PMID- 2513920 TI - Mental Health Act 1983: guardianship order and definition of mental impairment. PMID- 2513921 TI - Overprescribing. PMID- 2513922 TI - Organs for transplantation. PMID- 2513923 TI - Mental health for all? PMID- 2513924 TI - Audit in general practice. PMID- 2513925 TI - The cyclotron saga continues. PMID- 2513927 TI - Laying down the law on AIDS. PMID- 2513926 TI - Monitoring the prevalence of HIV. PMID- 2513928 TI - Calls to compensate HIV infected haemophiliacs. PMID- 2513929 TI - Scandale des hemophiles [Hemophiliac scandal]. PMID- 2513930 TI - The demand for neonatal intensive care. AB - In a one year prospective study within the Trent Regional Health Authority the demand for neonatal intensive care was estimated to be 1.1 cots per 1000 births. Intensive care level 1 (as defined by the British Paediatric Association and British Association for Perinatal Paediatrics) was determined by two separate techniques, which showed close agreement. Intensive care level 2 could not be measured directly, as the definition was too subjective. This aspect of demand was therefore estimated by using data derived from the treatment of babies transferred for intensive care. These findings represent a minimum estimate of need, as the data were obtained from a service constrained by having facilities well below the estimated level (roughly 60% of estimated demand). In the future other factors such as increased survival of extremely preterm infants will be likely to increase demand still further. PMID- 2513931 TI - Needle aspiration of amoebic liver abscess. AB - OBJECTIVE: To determine the value of needle aspiration in uncomplicated amoebic liver abscess. DESIGN: Randomised case-control study with a minimum follow up of one year, comparing patients treated with drugs alone with those treated with additional needle aspiration. SETTING: Referral based gastroenterology clinic. PATIENTS: 39 Consecutive patients with amoebic liver abscess in the right lobe, of whom 37 completed the study. INTERVENTION: Metronidazole 2.4 g/day was given to all patients for 10 days. Needle aspiration of the abscess was performed in 19 patients on the day of admission to hospital. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Abdominal pain, fever, anorexia, and hepatomegaly were measured. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate, serum aspartate, and alanine aminotransferase activities, and alkaline phosphatase activity were also measured. RESULTS: Clinical improvement was similar in both groups of patients. Improvement in haematological and biochemical variables and rates of healing of cavities were also similar. CONCLUSIONS: Chemotherapy with potent tissue amoebicidal drugs such as metronidazole is optimally effective in treating amoebic liver abscess, and in uncomplicated cases routine aspiration is not required. PMID- 2513932 TI - Multiple microemboli after disintegration of clot during thrombolysis for acute myocardial infarction. AB - Seven of 475 consecutive patients treated with thrombolysis for acute myocardial infarction had severe embolic complications that were believed to be caused by disintegration of pre-existing clot. Three patients had symptoms that persisted for many weeks, and five died. Any potential site of pre-existing blood clot within the vascular system, notably an enlarged left atrium, ventricular aneurysm, or aortic aneurysms, should be regarded as a contraindication to treatment with thrombolytic agents. PMID- 2513934 TI - Blood splashes: an underestimated hazard to surgeons. PMID- 2513933 TI - Neuropathology of HIV infection in haemophiliacs: comparative necropsy study. AB - OBJECTIVE: To discover whether pathological and neuropathological findings at necropsy are different in haemophiliacs and other subjects positive for HIV. DESIGN: Pathological and neuropathological findings at necropsy were compared in haemophiliacs and non-haemophiliacs, most of them homosexual men. SETTING: Necropsies performed in the south of England. SUBJECTS: 11 Haemophiliacs (mean age 41, range 15-69) and 31 non-haemophiliacs, 29 of whom were homosexual men (mean age 40, range 21-60). AIDS was diagnosed before death in four haemophiliacs and all but one of the non-haemophiliacs. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Prevalence of various forms of neuropathology and systemic pathology in the haemophiliacs and non-haemophiliacs, compared with Fisher's exact test. RESULTS: The prevalences of opportunistic infections of the central nervous system were significantly higher in the non-haemophiliacs (cerebral toxoplasmosis 23% (7), progressive multifocal leucoencephalopathy 10% (3), and cerebral cytomegalovirus infection 19% (6) in the non-haemophiliacs v no cases in the haemophiliacs). The prevalences of fresh and old intracranial haemorrhages and cirrhosis of the liver were significantly higher in the haemophiliacs (fresh intracranial haemorrhage 45% (5), old intracranial haemorrhage 36% (4), and cirrhosis of the liver 27% (3) in the haemophiliacs v no cases in the non-haemophiliacs). The prevalence of neuropathological changes in the non-haemophiliacs was similar to that found in other necropsy series. CONCLUSIONS: The main causes of death in haemophiliacs positive for HIV included intracranial haemorrhage and cirrhosis of the liver. The haemophiliacs died when the characteristic neuropathological changes associated with HIV infection were at a fairly early stage in their development. PMID- 2513935 TI - Oral contraceptives and diabetes mellitus. PMID- 2513936 TI - Methods of anaesthesia used for reduction of Colles' fractures. PMID- 2513937 TI - Spontaneous abortion rates after natural and assisted conception. PMID- 2513938 TI - Gold treatment for kala-azar. PMID- 2513939 TI - Different lengths of treatment with co-trimoxazole for acute uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women. AB - STUDY OBJECTIVE: To compare three days' and seven days' treatment with co trimoxazole in women with acute dysuria, strangury, and urinary frequency or urgency. DESIGN: Randomised double blind placebo controlled trial. SETTING: General practices in the south east of The Netherlands. PATIENTS: 327 Non pregnant female patients aged 12 to 65. INTERVENTION: 161 Women were allocated to three days' treatment (co-trimoxazole 960 mg twice a day), and 166 women were allocated to seven days' treatment (co-trimoxazole 960 mg twice a day). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Resolution of symptoms at one, two, and six weeks. RESULTS: The rates for resolution of symptoms were not significantly different between the two groups. Cumulative rates of recurrence after three days' and seven days' treatment were 31/139 (22%) and 23/151 (15%) respectively six weeks after entry (p = 0.16). Adverse effects occurred in a quarter of women given three days' treatment compared with a third of women receiving seven days' treatment (p = 0.29). In only two patients did adverse effects necessitate stopping treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Three days of co-trimoxazole seems to be as effective as a seven days' course for treating acute urinary tract infection in non-pregnant women. PMID- 2513940 TI - Pity the poor gatekeeper: a transatlantic perspective on cost containment in clinical practice. PMID- 2513941 TI - Housing and health: Temperature and humidity. PMID- 2513942 TI - Growing problem of malaria. PMID- 2513943 TI - Growing catalogue of fraud. PMID- 2513944 TI - The first year of life. Convulsions in the older infant. PMID- 2513945 TI - Breast screening: a response to Dr Maureen Roberts. PMID- 2513946 TI - Ethnic differences in consultation rates. PMID- 2513947 TI - Human insulin. PMID- 2513948 TI - Prophylaxis against malaria. PMID- 2513949 TI - Women victims of domestic violence. PMID- 2513950 TI - Amphotericin and abolition of fever in neutropenic sepsis. PMID- 2513951 TI - Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia in general practice. PMID- 2513952 TI - Mumps viruses and mumps, measles, and rubella vaccine. PMID- 2513953 TI - "Achieving a balance" and meeting the "safety net". PMID- 2513954 TI - Application of airline pilots' hours to junior doctors. PMID- 2513955 TI - Sponsored training for overseas doctors. PMID- 2513956 TI - Sweating it out. PMID- 2513957 TI - Embryo research: yes or no? PMID- 2513958 TI - Child health surveillance. PMID- 2513959 TI - "Health for All Children" and the new contract. PMID- 2513960 TI - Patients with spinal injuries. PMID- 2513961 TI - The NHS bill. PMID- 2513962 TI - Anonymised testing for HIV begins in January. PMID- 2513963 TI - HIV infected haemophiliacs: 19m pounds more. PMID- 2513964 TI - Transabdominal ultrasound screening for early ovarian cancer. AB - OBJECTIVE: To assess the value of ultrasonography in a screening procedure for early ovarian cancer. DESIGN: Prospective study of at least 5000 self referred women without symptoms of ovarian cancer. Each woman was scheduled to undergo three annual screenings (consisting of one or more scans) to detect grossly abnormal ovaries or non-regressing masses. SETTING: The ovarian screening clinic at King's College Hospital, London. SUBJECTS: 5479 Self referred women without symptoms (aged 18-78, mean age 52). INTERVENTIONS: Women with a positive result on screening were referred for laparoscopy or laparotomy, or both. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Findings at surgery and from histology of abnormal ovaries. RESULTS: A total of 14,594 screenings (15,977 scans) were performed. A positive result was obtained at 338 screens (2.3%) comprising 326 subjects (5.9%). Five patients with primary ovarian cancer (four stage Ia, one stage Ib; two at first screening three at second) were identified (prevalence 0.09%). An additional four patients had metastatic ovarian cancer (three at first screening, one at second). The apparent detection rate was 100%. It was not possible to differentiate between the ultrasonic appearance of early malignant and benign tumours. The rate of false positive results for primary ovarian cancer was 3.5% at the first screening, 1.8% at the second, and 1.2% at the third. Overall the rate of false positive results was 2.3%; the specificity was 97.7% and the predictive value of a positive result on screening was 1.5%. The odds that a positive result on screening indicated the presence of an ovarian tumour, any ovarian cancer, or primary ovarian cancer were about one to two, one to 37, and one to 67 respectively. CONCLUSION: Ultrasonography can be used to screen women without symptoms for persistent ovarian masses that will include early ovarian cancer. PMID- 2513965 TI - Transvaginal colour flow imaging: a possible new screening technique for ovarian cancer. AB - OBJECTIVE: To assess whether changes in the intraovarian vasculature or blood flow impedance can be used to identify potentially malignant masses. DESIGN: Open, non-comparative prospective study. SETTING: Ovarian screening clinics at King's College Hospital and the Hallam Medical Centre. SUBJECTS: 50 Women selected on the basis of their medical history and the result of a previous transvaginal ultrasound scan. Thirty women (10 premenopausal (scan taken on days 1 to 8 of the menstrual cycle) and 20 postmenopausal) had normal ovaries, and 20 had at least one ovary with an abnormal morphology or volume, or both. INTERVENTIONS: Women with a positive result on screening were referred for laparotomy. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Presence or absence of coloured areas (neovascularisation) and the pulsatility index within each ovary. The pulsatility index is a measure of the impedance to blood flow, a low value indicating decreased impedance and a high value increased impedance to blood flow. RESULTS: Two women with a positive result on screening had hydrosalpinges, 10 a benign tumour or a tumour-like condition, and eight primary ovarian cancers. No areas of neovascularisation were seen in the 30 women with morphologically normal ovaries and the two patients with hydrosalpinges; the pulsatility index ranged from 3.1 to 9.4. Similarly, nine patients (10 affected ovaries) with a non-malignant mass had no signs of neovascularisation and the pulsatility index varied from 3.2 to 7.0. One patient with bilateral dermoid cysts containing nests of thyroid-like cells had vascular changes and pulsatility index values of 0.4 and 0.8. Seven patients (eight ovaries) with primary ovarian cancer (one stage IV, four stage II, and two stage Ia) showed clear evidence of neovascularisation and pulsatility index values were from 0.3 to 1.0. One patient with an intraepithelial serous cystadenocarcinoma in a small ovary (less than 5 ml volume) had no signs of any vascular change and the pulsatility index was 5.5. CONCLUSION: Transvaginal colour flow imaging may be used to identify potentially malignant ovarian masses and help elucidate the early stages of tumorigenesis. The routine application of this technique may reduce the rate of false positive results of an ultrasonography based screening procedure. PMID- 2513966 TI - Interrelations among children, parents, premedication, and anaesthetists in paediatric day stay surgery. AB - OBJECTIVE: To investigate the incidence of difficulties associated with parental presence during the induction of anaesthesia in children and the influence of premedication with special reference to vomiting after papaveretum. DESIGN: Mixed factual and multiple choice questionnaire completed by medical and nursing staff and parents during and after admission. SETTING: Teaching hospital with regional paediatric general surgical unit where parental presence during induction of anaesthesia is long established. PATIENTS: 151 Children aged 1-14 years who had not previously undergone surgery attending with parents for day stay general surgical procedures. INTERVENTION: Children were randomly allocated to receive no premedication (group 1), oral diazepam elixir (0.3 mg/kg) (group 2), or intramuscular papaveretum with hyoscine (0.3 mg/kg with 0.006 mg/kg) (group 3). No other modification to established day stay routine was made. RESULTS: No major problems were associated with the presence of parents during the induction of anaesthesia. Only 10 of the 141 parents who accompanied their child caused some difficulty, and five became distressed. Premedication with both diazepam and papaveretum resulted in sedation but did not ease induction of anaesthesia. Papaveretum greatly reduced pain and distress immediately after the operation, pain and discomfort being observed in only 15% of children (7/48) compared with 66% (27/41) in group 1 and 49% (22/45) in group 2. Papaveretum, however, must be given intramuscularly, and nurses observed that the children preferred being given premedication orally to intramuscularly. In addition, the incidences of nausea and vomiting were significantly higher in the postoperative ward and at home with papaveretum, although no patient who had been given the drug was nauseous or vomited in the recovery area. The incidences of nausea in group 3 were 62% (31/50) and 57% (27/47) in the postoperative ward and at home, respectively, v 21% (7/33) and 14% (4/29) in group 1 and 13% (5/38) and 14% (5/37) in group 2; the incidences of vomiting in group 3 were 60% and 43% in the postoperative ward and at home, respectively, v 18% and 7% in group 1 and 11% and 11% in group 2. Finally, neither the administration or otherwise of premedication nor the drug given affected the children's or parents' perception of day care surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Difficulties with parents in anaesthetic rooms were not common or severe. Premedication provides preoperative sedation and papaveretum improves the immediate postoperative course but the incidences of nausea and vomiting after operation are higher with its use than without. PMID- 2513967 TI - Effect of a training programme to reduce stress in carers of patients with dementia. AB - OBJECTIVE: To reduce the psychological stress and improve the skills in coping of people who care for relatives with dementia. DESIGN: Assessment and suitability of carers by questionnaire; assessment of patients and carers in a hospital outpatient clinic; allocation to groups according to date of application to study. Linkage of groups of four carers and programme coordinator by telephone conference calls over 12 months after programmes. Reassessment at three, six, 12, and, for those in the "wait list" group, 18 months. SETTING: The programmes were conducted in the psychiatry unit of a Sydney teaching hospital. SUBJECTS: Eligible patients were less than 80 years old, had mild to moderate dementia, and lived at home with their carer. Of the 96 patient-carer pairs in the study, 33 were in the dementia carers' programme group, 31 were in the memory retraining group, and 32 were in the wait list group. INTERVENTIONS: Carers in the dementia carers' programme received training in coping with the difficulties of looking after patients with dementia while the patients had sessions in subjects such as memory retraining. In the memory retraining programme patients were admitted and received the patient component of the carers' programme while their carers had 10 days' respite. In the wait list group carers waited six months before undertaking the carers' programme. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Effect of the programmes on carers' general health questionnaire scores and the rate of placement of patients in institutions. RESULTS: At 12 months' follow up the carers' programme had resulted in significantly lower psychological stress among carers than the memory retraining programme (mean (SD) general health questionnaire scores at 0 months were 6.31 (6.23) and 3.60 (6.25) respectively, and at 12 months were 4.69 (5.58) and 7.40 (9.39); p less than 0.05.) In the wait list group distress scores remained stable, even after the carers and patients had undertaken the carers' programme. Patients deteriorated over 12 months regardless of group allocation, but at 30 months, allowing for patients who died and could not be included in the analysis, 65% of patients in the carers' programme group were still living at home compared with 26% in the memory retraining programme group. CONCLUSION: The intensive intervention programme described for carers of patients with dementia can reduce the psychological morbidity of the carer and delay the placement of the patient in an institution without increasing the use of health services by either patient or carer. PMID- 2513968 TI - Acute right heart strain after crushing injury at Hillsborough football ground. PMID- 2513969 TI - Fine bore silicone catheters for peripheral intravenous nutrition in adults. PMID- 2513970 TI - Pseudohyperphosphataemia in multiple myeloma. PMID- 2513971 TI - Psychiatric discharge summaries: differing requirements of psychiatrists and general practitioners. PMID- 2513973 TI - Monitoring and evaluating Working for Patients. PMID- 2513972 TI - Maternal morbidity associated with in utero transfer. AB - OBJECTIVE: To determine the extent of maternal morbidity associated with in utero transfer. DESIGN: Retrospective study of 190 consecutive cases over two years. SETTING: Liverpool Maternity Hospital. PATIENTS: 190 Pregnant women were transferred to the hospital under the in utero transfer arrangements from district general hospitals both within and outside the Mersey region. The women admitted were divided into two categories: those in threatened or established uncomplicated preterm labour and those who may or may not have been in threatened or established preterm labour but who had coexisting complicating factors affecting the mother or fetus, or both. INTERVENTIONS: Planned delivery of the fetus if indicated and arrangements for appropriate postpartum care of the mother. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Assessment of the progress of labour and, if appropriate, resuscitation of the mother. RESULTS: Women who were transferred with no coexisting disease (124) had relatively uncomplicated deliveries whereas those transferred with coexisting diseases (66) exhibited considerable morbidity and 17 of these required prolonged intensive monitoring after delivery. CONCLUSIONS: In utero transfer in healthy mothers may have benefits for babies born very prematurely. If mothers have coexisting disease, however, the desirability of transfer should be reviewed urgently in the light of the considerable maternal morbidity associated with these problems. In these cases transfer may introduce an additional hazard. PMID- 2513974 TI - Housing and health: Indoor air quality. PMID- 2513975 TI - ABC of transfusion. The blood donor and tests on donor blood. PMID- 2513976 TI - Statements from the Vancouver Group. International Committee of Medical Journal Editors. PMID- 2513977 TI - Brain stem death and organ donation. PMID- 2513978 TI - Acute renal failure after infusion of gelatin. PMID- 2513979 TI - Risks and benefits of prophylactic antimalarial drugs. PMID- 2513980 TI - Symptoms of oestrogen deficiency in women with oestradiol implants. PMID- 2513981 TI - Rules for drug trials. PMID- 2513982 TI - Complementary medicine. PMID- 2513983 TI - Referrals to general practitioner maternity units. PMID- 2513984 TI - Workload of general practitioners. PMID- 2513985 TI - "Operation Cataract". PMID- 2513986 TI - Survival of patients with cancer. PMID- 2513987 TI - Demarcation disputes in surgery. PMID- 2513988 TI - Cost limits on ancillary staff. PMID- 2513989 TI - AIDS and YOU game. PMID- 2513990 TI - Differential distribution of alpha-tubulin isotypes in Euplotes eurystomus determined by confocal immunofluorescence microscopy. AB - Detergent permeabilized Euplotes eurystomus (a fresh water hypotrichous ciliate) was reacted with monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies specific for either detyrosinated or tyrosinated alpha-tubulin (Glu- or Tyr-tubulin). The isolated cytoskeleton-nuclear complex was examined by Western immunoblotting and by immunofluorescent and electron microscopic methods. Both Glu- and Tyr-tubulins were detected by immunoblot analysis. Immunofluorescent microscopy indicated that the alpha-tubulin isotypes are concentrated in different regions of permeabilized cells: Glu-tubulin is located primarily in cirri, membranelles, and surrounding the macro- and micronuclei. Tyr-tubulin is principally at the bases of cirri and membranelles. This differential distribution of alpha-tubulin isotypes is discussed in terms of current concepts concerning the correlation of tubulin post translational modifications to microtubule stability. Confocal immunofluorescent imaging was of critical importance in clearly differentiating the Glu-tubulin isotype surrounding the macro- and micronuclei from a brilliantly fluorescent environment originating from cytoskeletal structures. In conjunction with conventional and stereo-electron microscopy, confocal optical microscopy provided convincing evidence for a "basket" of microtubules surrounding both nuclei. PMID- 2513991 TI - Coexistence of thyrotropin-releasing hormone and insulin in cultured fetal rat islets: a light and electron microscopic immunocytochemical study during islet neoformation. AB - Pancreatic thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) is without doubt localized in the insulin-containing beta-cells. A previous study reported cellular continuity between beta-cells and ducts in cultured fetal rat islets, but it is not known whether these insulin-containing beta-cells form a cell type that is different from the TRH cells producing insulin. On the other hand, the subcellular coexistence of both peptides as yet remains unresolved. To overcome these problems the present study was conducted, using light microscopic immunocytochemistry, to verify the cellular distribution of TRH in cultured fetal rat islets with particular regard to the interrelationship between beta-cells and ducts, and using electron microscopic double labeling cytochemistry, to study the subcellular distribution of TRH and insulin. Our data show that both TRH and insulin are expressed in the same cells during islet cell neogenesis, and are localized in the same secretory granules. No topographic segregation of their respective immunoreactive moieties are seen within the secretory granule. PMID- 2513992 TI - Dual internalization pathway for lutropin and choriogonadotropin in porcine Leydig cells in primary culture. AB - The role of the high affinity receptor in the internalization of porcine lutropin (pLH) and human choriogonadotropin (hCG) by porcine Leydig cells in primary culture during short-term stimulation by the two hormones was investigated. The fate of the hormones was followed either by electron microscopy (with colloidal gold-labeled hormones) or by measurement of the cellular distribution of [125I]pLH and [125I]hCG. With both techniques, the internalization of pLH was found to be one order of magnitude greater than hCG, though the recycling rate of the high affinity receptors was the same with both hormones. However, when the cell surface was progressively depleted of its high affinity receptors by preincubation with increasing doses of hCG or pLH, the internalization of [125I]pLH remained high and largely independent of the number of high affinity receptors still available on the cell surface, while that of [125I]hCG was found to be proportional to this number. The endocytosis of [125I]pLH could only be inhibited by the simultaneous presence of micromolar concentrations of unlabeled pLH, hCG or alpha or beta subunits of ovine LH (oLH). The intact alpha-hCG subunit and the deglycosylated alpha-oLH subunit were less potent, while beta-hCG and deglycosylated beta-oLH had no significant effect. These results could be explained by the existence of a "carrier" or "scavenger" receptor for LH, but with a low affinity (congruent to 3.10(6) M-1) and present in excess on the cell surface as compared to the high affinity receptor. The possible physiological significance of this receptor is discussed. PMID- 2513993 TI - Modulation of in vitro antitumor immunity in response to the biological activators interleukin-2, gamma interferon, and granulocyte monocyte-colony stimulating factor in the peripheral blood of cancer patients receiving cytotoxic chemotherapy. PMID- 2513995 TI - Biochemistry and pharmacology of cyclooxygenase inhibitors. AB - Prostaglandins and leukotrienes are local hormones synthesized from essential fatty acids by the cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase systems. Many anti inflammatory drugs function by inhibiting prostaglandin production. Acetylsalicylic acid irreversibly inhibits cyclooxygenase by acetylating a serine residue in the active site. Aspirin selectively stimulates the proliferative responses of T-lymphocytes in part by enhancing IL-2 production. Cells recover from aspirin by synthesizing new cyclooxygenase, and many cells require EGF for this. Corticosteroids block recovery from aspirin treatment by inhibiting synthesis of cyclooxygenase. Cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase inhibitors frequently have opposing activities. More work on the integration of the prostaglandin and the newly discovered leukotriene systems is needed. PMID- 2513994 TI - Immunosuppression in irradiated breast cancer patients: in vitro effect of cyclooxygenase inhibitors. AB - We have documented in previous studies that local irradiation therapy for breast cancer caused severe lymphopenia with reduction of both T and non-T lymphocytes. Non-T cells were relatively more depressed but recovered within six months. The recovery of T cells, on the other hand, remained incomplete 10-11 years after irradiation. Several lymphocyte functions were also severely impaired. An association was found between prognosis and postirradiation mitogen reactivity of lymphocytes from these patients. Mortality up to eight years after irradiation was significantly higher in patients with low postirradiation phytohemagglutinin and PPD reactivity. The radiation induced decrease in mitogenic response seemed mainly to be caused by immunosuppressive monocytes, which suggests that the underlying mechanism might be mediated by increased production of prostaglandins by monocytes. For this reason we examined the effect of some cyclooxygenase products on different lymphocyte functions and found that prostaglandins A2, D2, and E2 inhibited phytohemagglutinin response in vitro. Natural killer cell activity was also reduced by prostaglandins D2 and E2. The next step was to examine various inhibitors of cyclooxygenase in respect to their capacity to revert irradiation-induced suppression of in vitro mitogen response in lymphocytes from breast cancer patients. It was demonstrated that Diclofenac Na (Voltaren), Meclofenamic acid, Indomethacin, and lysin-mono-acetylsalicylate (Aspisol) could enhance mitogen responses both before and after radiation therapy. This effect was most pronounced at completion of irradiation. On a molar basis, Diclofenac Na was most effective followed by Indomethacin, Meclofenamic acid, and lysin-monoacetylsalicylate. The clinically beneficial effects of irradiation might be overshadowed by its effects on the immune system. If true, the value of treatment could be improved if radiation-induced suppression of lymphocyte response, which correlates inversely to survival, is reduced. Since such an effect can be achieved in these patients with cyclooxygenase inhibitors in vitro it is possible that it can be achieved also in vivo. PMID- 2513996 TI - Combination therapies: new and emerging uses for cyclooxygenase inhibitors and biological response modifiers on immunity. PMID- 2513997 TI - Interleukin-1 and the effects of cyclooxygenase inhibitors on its biological activities. AB - Interleukin-1 (IL-1) is a polypeptide produced following infection, injury, or antigenic challenge. Although the macrophage is a primary source of IL-1, epidermal, epithelial, lymphoid, and vascular tissues synthesize IL-1. When IL-1 gains access to the circulation, it induces a broad spectrum of systemic changes in physiologic, neurologic, metabolic, hematologic, and endocrine systems. However, because IL-1 lacks a signal peptide, a considerable amount of the IL-1 synthesized may remain associated with the cell and particularly as part of the plasma membrane where it may participate in lymphocyte activation and mesenchymal tissue remodeling. Two gene products code for IL-1: IL-1-beta and IL-1-alpha. The spectrum of biological activities of IL-1 are induced by both forms and receptors for IL-1 recognize both forms. The most consistent property of IL-1 is upregulation of cellular metabolism and increased expression of several genes coding for biologically active molecules. IL-1 is a highly inflammatory molecule and stimulates the production of arachidonic acid metabolites, most consistently, prostaglandin E. IL-1 also acts synergistically with other cytokines, particularly tumor necrosis factor. Some of the multiple biological effects of IL 1 and tumor necrosis factor are prevented by cyclooxygenase inhibitors whereas others are unaffected. Given the widespread use of cyclooxygenase inhibitors, understanding their effect on IL-1 and tumor necrosis factor action is important in several disease models. PMID- 2513998 TI - Acrobatic ears: a cause of petrified auricles. AB - Calcified ear cartilages are rarely encountered and only 12 histologically proven cases have been documented. The case presented is of ossified auricles in a teenager and has many interesting features. Acrobatic manipulation of the auricles as a cause of the lesion was one of the distinguishing features. PMID- 2513999 TI - The evaluation of mental health care systems. AB - While the demand for deinstitutionalization, strongly supported by the economic aspect of the issue, has resulted in a steep decline in the number of psychiatric beds in many Western countries, the evaluation of extramural psychiatric care has several difficulties, including that of proving effectiveness without experimental control of confounding influences. For a cohort of schizophrenic patients we investigated the impact of out-patient psychiatric treatment on length of stay in hospital and length of stay in the community. Out-patient care had a significant influence on readmission, but no effect on the length of in patient treatment. While the average cost of community care was less than half that of traditional hospital care, in 6% of the patients this threshold value of continued in-patient care was exceeded. There also seems to be a non-monetary threshold, above which community care is no longer appropriate. PMID- 2514000 TI - Munchausen's syndrome by proxy. PMID- 2514001 TI - Sorcery and psychiatry. PMID- 2514002 TI - Local low dose intra-arterial thrombolytic therapy: the risk of stroke or major haemorrhage. AB - The use of local low dose thrombolysis is gradually increasing. Most experience is with streptokinase, although newer agents such as recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rTPA) may offer more effective lysis with reduced complications. We have reviewed the experience documented in 19 prospective series published between 1974 and 1988 in an attempt to define the incidence of stroke, major haemorrhage and minor haemorrhage. The overall risk of stroke was 1.0 per cent of patients (14 cases). Major haemorrhage occurred in 5.1 per cent of patients (71 cases) and minor haemorrhage occurred in 14.8 per cent (92 out of 620 cases). There was little difference between the two thrombolytic agents, although the experience with lower doses of rTPA suggests it may offer a reduced risk of haemorrhagic complications. It is essential that all studies concerning thrombolysis should give their exclusion and inclusion criteria in full to allow an accurate appraisal of haemorrhagic complications, with the hope of improved patient selection and reduced morbidity in the future. PMID- 2514003 TI - Protective effects of recombinant human tumour necrosis factor alpha and interferon gamma against surgically simulated wound infection in mice. AB - Tumour necrosis factor alpha and interferon gamma have both been shown to have immunoregulatory properties, and to be able to influence, several microbial infections. This study showed that tumour necrosis factor was effective in modifying surgically simulated wound infections when administered both as prophylaxis and as therapy. Two models were used; one was an intramuscular bacterial challenge, and the other involved the use of a bacteria-laden thigh suture. The test bacterium for both models was Klebsiella pneumoniae, a common surgical pathogen in our surgical service. Interferon gamma was an effective biological response modifier in these models. Tumour necrosis factor was more potent than interferon gamma and there was no additive or synergistic effect with interferon gamma. This indicates potentially different mechanisms of action for these two cytokines. PMID- 2514004 TI - Diurnal insulin and glucose profiles following transplantation of fresh and cryopreserved canine pancreatic islets. AB - Dispersed islet autotransplants (fresh and cryopreserved) can produce normal fasting insulin and glucose concentrations. Following an intravenous glucose challenge, however, the insulin response is impaired and glucose clearance delayed. This study examines the diurnal insulin and glucose response to feeding in recipients of fresh islet autografts (n = 6), recipients of cryopreserved islet autografts (n = 3), normal unoperated controls (n = 10) and insulin treated pancreatectomized diabetic dogs (n = 7). Mean fasting insulin and glucose levels were similar in all groups. After feeding, insulin profiles in both transplant groups were near normal while significant hyperinsulinaemia occurred in insulin treated diabetic dogs. Mild postprandial carbohydrate intolerance was observed in transplant recipients but glycosylated haemoglobin levels were similar (mean(s.d.] to normals (6.88(0.86) per cent, 6.86(0.5) per cent respectively). Dispersed islet autotransplantation with portal insulin delivery produces near normal insulin and glucose profiles suggesting that this may represent a suitable treatment for insulin dependent diabetes. PMID- 2514005 TI - Excitation of locus coeruleus neurons by vasoactive intestinal peptide: evidence for a G-protein-mediated inward current. AB - Vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) caused a reversible increase in the firing rate of locus coeruleus (LC) neurons. Voltage-clamp at -60 mV revealed that VIP induced an inward current associated with a small increase in conductance. The inward current persisted in the presence of Co2+ (to block Ca2+ channels) or tetrodotoxin (to block fast voltage-dependent Na+ channels). Substitution (80%) of Na+ with choline or Tris reduced the VIP-elicited inward current by approximately 75%. Changing external K+ concentrations did not alter the effect of VIP. The inward current induced by VIP became irreversible after the intracellular administration of GTP gamma S, a hydrolysis-resistant analog of GTP which can cause a prolonged activation of G-proteins. The intracellular application of GDP beta S, which can interfere with G-protein activation, attenuated the effect of VIP. Pertussis toxin, an inactivator of certain G proteins, did not block the effect of VIP. We conclude that VIP directly excites LC neurons by inducing a largely Na-dependent inward current. As this effect became irreversible in the presence of intracellular GTP gamma S, was attenuated by GDP beta S, and was not eliminated by pertussis toxin, mediation through a pertussis toxin-insensitive G-protein is suggested. PMID- 2514006 TI - Reduction of insulin binding in the arcuate nucleus of the rat hypothalamus after 6-hydroxydopamine treatment. AB - Insulin receptors are present in the hypothalamus, but the cell types bearing them are unknown. In order to test the hypothesis that some insulin receptors in the hypothalamus are associated with catecholamine terminals, rats were injected with 50 micrograms or 75 micrograms doses (intracerebroventricular) of 6 hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA). Control rats received vehicle only. The animals were sacrificed 7 days after injection, and catecholamine and indolamine levels in the hypothalamus were measured by high performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection. Localization of specific binding sites for [125I] insulin in the arcuate (ARC), dorsomedial (DMN) and ventromedial (VMN) nuclei were determined by quantitative film autoradiography. Treatment with 6-OHDA resulted in a 70% reduction in hypothalamic norepinephrine content as compared to vehicle-treated controls (P less than 0.01). A slight depletion of epinephrine, dopamine and indolamines was also detected. Computerized image analysis of the autoradiograms was used to determine radioactivity bound (DPM/mm2) in each nucleus. Highest binding was in the ARC and DMN, with much lower binding in the VMN. Insulin binding in the ARC of the 6-OHDA-treated group was decreased by 25% compared to controls (P less than 0.01). No significant change in insulin binding was observed in the DMN or VMN. The 6-OHDA treatment had no significant effect on weight gain or on plasma insulin levels. The reduction of insulin binding in the ARC after 6-OHDA treatment supports the hypothesis that some insulin binding sites are located on catecholamine terminals in the arcuate nucleus. PMID- 2514007 TI - Hyperactivity following posterior cortical injury is lateralized, sensitive to lesion size and independent of the nigrostriatal dopamine system. AB - In a previous study, we reported that a specific size cortical suction lesion of the right posterior cortex in rats produced hyperactivity and increased concentrations of dopamine in the nigrostriatal pathway. The present study extended those findings by addressing whether this phenomenon is lateralized to the right posterior cortex and whether the increases in nigrostriatal dopamine are necessary for the behavioral changes produced by the lesion. Right posterior cortical lesions of 1.8 mm diameter produced spontaneous hyperactivity over a 30 day postoperative period while identically placed 1.3 mm or 2.4 mm diameter lesions did not. Left hemisphere lesions of 1.3 mm, 1.8 mm or 2.4 mm diameter also failed to produce hyperactivity. The hyperactivity response to 1.8 mm diameter lesions of the right posterior cortex was not blocked by 70% depletions in nigrostriatal dopamine produced by bilateral nigral injections of 6 hydroxydopamine two weeks prior to cortical lesions. These findings suggest that hyperactivity following right posterior cortical lesions is lateralized and is not dependent upon changes in the nigrostriatal dopaminergic pathway. PMID- 2514008 TI - Unilateral induction of c-fos protein in cortex following cortical devascularization. AB - The proto-oncogene c-fos is rapidly induced by a variety of stimuli including wounding of the cortex. In an attempt to define the conditions necessary for c fos activation, we have studied the effects of cerebral devascularization (CD; unilateral pial disruption), a procedure which results in ischaemia without producing direct physical damage to the tissues. Cerebral devascularization produces c-fos activation throughout the ipsilateral cortex; this effect lasts for about 4 h and is not confined to the area subjacent to pial disruption. The activation of c-fos is not prevented by even high doses of benzodiazepines but is effectively reduced by the N-methyl-D-aspartate (glutamate) receptor antagonist ketamine. PMID- 2514009 TI - Spine density on neostriatal neurones changes with 6-hydroxydopamine lesions and with age. AB - Golgi-impregnated medium-size spiny neurones were studied in the rat neostriatum at various times after a unilateral 6-hydroxydopamine lesion of the medial forebrain bundle. At both short (12-26 days) and long (7-12 months) survival times, the density of spines was significantly lower (13%) on neostriatal neurones ipsilateral to the 6-hydroxydopamine injection. At longer times the density of spines was lower on neurones both ipsilateral and contralateral to the lesion when compared to neurones taken from short-term animals (23%). PMID- 2514010 TI - The effects of serotonergic and dopaminergic lesions on sodium-sensitive [3H]mazindol binding in rat hypothalamus and corpus striatum. AB - The effects of intracerebroventricular administration of 6-hydroxydopamine (6 OHDA) and 5,7-dihydroxytryptamine (5,7-DHT) on sodium-sensitive [3H]mazindol binding were investigated in the rat hypothalamus and corpus striatum. In the hypothalamus, specific [3H]mazindol binding was inhibited by low concentrations of sodium and stimulated by high-sodium concentrations, whereas in the corpus striatum, only a sodium-dependent stimulation of [3H]mazindol binding was observed. Lesions with 6-OHDA significantly reduced sodium-dependent [3H]mazindol binding in the corpus striatum, but had no effect on the binding of [3H]mazindol in the absence of sodium. Lesions of serotonergic neurons with 5,7-DHT, however, had no effect on [3H]mazindol binding in the striatum, but resulted in a significant increase in the number of [3H]mazindol binding sites in the hypothalamus. These data suggest that [3H]mazindol may bind to two anatomically distinct binding sites, one that is stimulated and the other inhibited by sodium. The sodium-stimulated binding sites appear to be located on dopaminergic terminals in the striatum, and in the hypothalamus, the sodium-inhibited sites appear to be regulated by serotonergic neuronal activity. PMID- 2514011 TI - [Uptake of osteotropic agents in the spine in laboratory rats after the administration of biphenyl derivatives]. AB - The effect of the derivative trichlorobiphenyl and of ergocalciferol on calcium uptake into the spinal column was studied in young laboratory rats. The substances were administered in the period of suckling. Before sacrificing the animals the bone seeker 85 Sr was administered. The uptake of the seeker decrease after administration of the derivative trichlorobifenyl. Ingestion of the biphenyl derivative and of ergocalciferol resulted in a mild increase in bone seeker uptake. The increase was comparable to the uptake level in control animals. The effect of the derivative trichlorobiphenyl is accounted for by blockade of cytoplasmic receptors of chondrocytes. PMID- 2514012 TI - [Hemodynamic vertebrobasilar insufficiency demonstrated by chronic oligemic cerebral flow and cerebellar ataxia: two new concepts]. AB - We propose in the paper of the concept of nuclear hemodynamic vertebrobasilar insufficiency, defined as an oligemic blood flow lower than 35 ml/100 g/min. in the brain stem-cerebellum zone, when using the method of inhalation of 133Xe. In 15 patients, the neurophysiologic manifestations included intermittent symptoms. We describe here permanent neurophysiologic motor disturbances: extrapyramidal Dopa sensitive syndrome (2/15), chronic cerebellar ataxia (12/15), often associated with cerebellar atrophy (8/12). The concept of chronic oligemic cerebellar ataxia, corresponding to selective neuronal death and/or neurochemical failure, is proposed. PMID- 2514013 TI - [A study of the tolerance of a new lipid emulsion in digestive system surgery in children]. PMID- 2514014 TI - [Seeding of autologous epithelial cells into the allograft dermis as coverage for full-thickness burns]. AB - Using a scalpel, crisscross grooves 1-2 mm apart were made on the dermis of an allogenic skin graft. Epithelial cells in a suspension, harvested from the patient, were seeded into the dermal grooves. The allograft thus prepared was used to cover wounds resulting from excision of full thickness burns. Four patients with burn areas ranged from 5% to 28% were treated with this technic. 10 13 days after the operation, when epidermis of the allografts were lifted, epithelial growth was seen on the dermal surface. It thickened rapidly, and cornification was seen. Except in one case, in whom newly grown epithelium was rubbed away owing to poor bandage and fixation, all the other wounds healed on 70 80 days after the operation. The healed surfaces of wounds were even and smooth. With this technic, the expansion of the donor area was estimated to be as much as 30-56 fold. Biopsy sections at regular intervals after the operation showed that the auto-skin epidermal cells grew out from the grooves to more superficial portions until they reached the surface of dermis, where they extended and finally covered the whole surface of the wound. 10-14 months after the operation the epidermis assumed more or less a wavy contour, and it seemed to be firmly united with the dermis. The cellular structure was clear, and their arrangement regular. With special staining, it was demonstrated that there were collagenous fibers, reticular fibers and elastic fibers in the dermis. However, there were no dermal appendages. One year later, the color of the new skin approximated that of the normal skin.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514015 TI - [Relaxation and repair of axillary scar contracture and musculocutaneous nerve injury]. AB - Relaxation of the scar contracture in the axillary region may lead to injure the musculocutaneous nerve, it hasn't been reported up to now. Through clinical observation and cadaveric measurement the degree of injury can be classified as Sunderland I...II. In general it can return to normal within 1-3 months. This article tries to explain the cause of injury and its clinical symptom and the method of the prevention. PMID- 2514016 TI - [Clinical use of an acromial free flap--a report of 5 cases]. PMID- 2514017 TI - [Experiences in the successful management of a 100% TBSA (total body surface area) (third degree 96%) burn patient with severe inhalation injury]. PMID- 2514018 TI - [Reconstruction of cutaneous fistula of the frontal sinus. Report of 4 cases]. PMID- 2514019 TI - [Changes in serum osmolality and osmolar discrepancy in burn patients]. AB - 43 patients with burns of various degree and TBSA were investigated to study the relationship between burn severity and changes of serum osmolality. The results showed that the osmolality in 4 dead patients was significantly higher than the osmolality of the survivors with very serious burns, whose osmolality decreased gradually to normal. Hyperosmolality and obvious osmolar discrepancy often exist simultaneously. It is suggested that the changes of osmolality and osmolar discrepancy can reflect the burn severity and the prognosis of the patients. PMID- 2514020 TI - [Introduction of tracheal intubation with the aid of an fiberoptic bronchoscope in inhalation injury]. AB - This paper reported the clinical use of endotracheal intubation with the aid of fiberoptic bronchoscope in 17 patients with major burns (TBSA 91.38 +/- 6.41%) and inhalation injury during the early postinjury period, pre-operation and acute respiratory failure. The observations revealed that the use of transnasal endotracheal with the aid of fiberoptic bronchoscope significantly improved pulmonary ventilation and respiratory functions when the patients suffered from acute upper airway obstruction during the early postinjury period and acute respiratory failure caused by airway obstruction and atelectasis during the late postinjury period. The above results showed that this method is safe, simple and can significantly improve respiratory function and avoid tracheostomy. It is a valuable method for improving the treatment of patients with inhalation injury. PMID- 2514021 TI - [Expanded forehead flap for reconstruction of the nose]. AB - Eight cases of reconstruction of nose by using skin expander are reported in detail in this article. In which, 6 cases were total nose reconstruction, 2 were upper partial reconstruction. The results were good in all cases. It is considered that the forehead flap is the place of choice in nasal reconstruction. It gives good shape contour and best color match. After application of tissue expander it could provide more skin for reconstruction, and prove more advantages in repairing the donor site. It has been observed that the reconstructed nose contour was satisfactory, with no obvious constriction after more than a year follow up. The methods and advantages of operation and some typical cases are presented. PMID- 2514022 TI - [Corrective rhinoplasty of the congenital deviated nose]. AB - From 1981 to 1986, a total of 11 cases of crooked nose were treated. The method include resection of the excessive portion of deviated lateral cartilage, and reduction of significantly dislocated lower part of septum, otherwise correction could not be radical. PMID- 2514023 TI - [Rare congenital bifid nose deformity. A report of 3 cases]. AB - Bifid nose is a rare congenital deformity. Three cases were reported here. The characteristics of these patients are different from the literatures reported. Two of them were treated by a new surgical method--making a hole between fissure and nasal cavity. The shape of nose became better after operation and the results were satisfactory. The procedure was simple and safe. The method of treatment was introduced and discussed in this article. PMID- 2514024 TI - [Management of mass casualty severely burned children]. AB - Twenty one children, who had been burnt seriously were admitted at one time. Among them thirteen had serious inhalation injury, five suffered from sepsis, ten died. Escharotomies were performed on ten patients. On the basis of the characteristics of children, problems about early transfer of patients, fluid transfusion during shock, and how to simplify operation process, save blood were discussed. One typical case was presented. PMID- 2514025 TI - [Reconstruction of the thumb and radial side of palm--a report of 6 cases]. AB - Since 1985, on the basis of anatomic study of dorsal pedal artery, thumb and radial side of palm reconstruction have been successfully performed in one stage by using opposite composite dorsal pedal flap including the second toe, the second metatarsal and the first toe web. Because they were all distributed by dorsal pedal artery and great saphenous vein, dissecting these tissues was not difficult. Good function and cosmetic appearance were achieved following reconstruction. PMID- 2514026 TI - [Treatment of full-thickness burn by planned replacement using glutaraldehyde porcine skin with an autograft]. AB - Forty burn patients were treated in last two years by the method of covering excised or tangentially excised wound with lyophilized glutaraldehyde pigskin, and then planned replacing by autograft skin according to patient's condition. The result showed that the survival rate of the patients was 92.5%. Patients with burn area less than 92% TBSA or third-degree wound less than 81% TBSA survived. This method is effective for stabilizing patient's condition; helping to resolve the problem of limited donor area of extensive burn; extending the usage of meshed skin graft; increasing the taken-rate of autograft skin; improving cosmetic appearance and recovering function. Some disadvantages of this method were also discussed in the paper. PMID- 2514027 TI - [Use of a dufourmentel flap in repairing lumbosacral bed sore (a report of 7 cases)]. AB - Since March 1988, 7 patients with lumbosacral bed sore were repairing by Dufourmentel Flaps. The defects of bed sore were 4 X 5 cm to 9 X 8 cm. Excellent results were obtained. There was no case of recurrence after 18 to 30 months follow up. The advantages of this method are that the design and procedure are easy to perform by any beginner in plastic surgery. The theory and design of Dufourmentel Flap are present, operative technique are discussed in this article. PMID- 2514028 TI - [Analysis of microbiological flora in the blood and wounds of burn patients]. AB - 1266 strains of bacteria and fungi from wound surface and 321 strains from blood specimens were compared from 1980 to 1987. The results showed that Gram-negative bacilli were obviously more than Gram-positive cocci. Staph. aureus and Ps. aeruginosa remained the most important agents of infective complications. E. coli and E. aerogenes increased steadily and Proteus decreased gradually in burn infection. The ratios of various species of bacteria from wound surface were roughly proportional to that from blood specimens. This paper suggests that prevention and treatment of infection caused by Staph. aureus and Ps. aeruginosa are highly important, control of infection resulted from E. coli and E. aerogenes must be emphasized, and Acinetobacter and Fungi infection must be further studied. The care of burned wounds is very important for prevention and treatment of septicemia. Factors resulting in change of germ flora are also discussed in this paper. PMID- 2514029 TI - [Subcutaneous excision of cystic hyperplasia of breast with concurrent reconstruction. Report of 7 cases]. PMID- 2514030 TI - [Prevention of deformities using thick split-thickness skin grafts to repair infected wounds. Report of 22 cases]. AB - Previously, split-thickness skin graft was used as coverage for the infected wounds in special site. Because severe contracture and deformities occurred later due to thin skin graft, further plastic surgery was needed, yet the results still were unsatisfactory in some cases. In 22 patients, large pieces of thick split thickness graft were used to cover the excised granulation wounds where the plate of collagen fibers were relaxed. All the grafts were 100% taken. The functions and appearances were satisfied after one year follow-up. The authors recommended that thick split-thickness skin graft possesses the properties of full-thickness skin graft. It will be taken well, if the infection of wound can be controlled and adequate blood supply of wound is provided. PMID- 2514031 TI - [Effect of the thromboxane synthetase inhibitor dazmegrel (UK 38,485) on skin blood flow in deep partial thickness burns]. AB - We have previously demonstrated more rapid wound healing in deep partial thickness burn guinea-pigs treated with intramuscular injection of the lower dosage of the thromboxane synthetase inhibitor Dazmegrel. In striking contrast, systemic and topical application of larger dosage of Dazmegrel inhibited or did not improve wound healing in this study, a deep partial thickness burn model of guinea-pig was used to evaluate the effect of Dazmegrel given systemically using dosage of 3.4 mg, 10 mg and 30 mg/kg/day on dermal perfusion measured by India ink injection or by Xe-133 clearance. There was no improvement of dermal perfusion in any of the groups receiving Dazmegrel. The beneficial effect of Dazmegrel on wound healing at a dosage of 3.4 mg/kg/day was not due to improved local dermal perfusion but, rather, resulted from a systemic immune effect on the animal. The Xe-133-determined blood perfusion showed a significantly diminished blood perfusion in the burn wound at 7h post-burn, and a higher burn skin blood flow at 24h post-burn. Their finding is consistent with the report from other laboratory that microvascular perfusion in zone-of-stasis burns, immediately post burn, gradually diminishes to nil over the next 16 hours, to be followed by reperfusion between 16 and 96 hours postburn. PMID- 2514032 TI - [Comparative studies on some of the main properties of several kinds of pigskin commonly used in practice]. AB - Main properties of fresh and three various kinds of preserved pigskin have been compared in our experiment. Results indicated that the rates of bacterial contamination of fresh pigskin sterilized by conventional method was 9.8%, while no positive culture had been found in preserved pig skins. Tissue adherence values of preserved pigskin grafts were not lower or were a little lower than that of fresh pigskin graft at Phase I, and were higher or were a little higher at Phase II (no statistical difference respectively). Water permeability of fresh pigskin was 37.84 +/- 9.37 gm/m2/h. Comparing with this value, permeability of radiated pigskin slightly decreased, permeability of glutaraldehyde treated pigskin (GAS) and chlorhexidine-alcohol refrigerated pigskin (ARS) significantly increased (P less than 0.001 respectively). Skin grafted on rats showed fresh, radiated heterografts infiltrated by host cells on 5th post-graft days, and sloughed or began to slough on 9th post-graft days; while GAS, ARS heterografts were rarely invaded by host cells, the general architectures of the grafts were still preserved up to 12th post-graft days. PMID- 2514033 TI - [Changes in interleukin-1 and interleukin-2 in scalded rats]. AB - The function of lymphocytes and macrophages after a 20% full-thickness scald injuries in a rat model was observed. After injuries, no significant change was found in phagocytic activity of macrophage. The interleukin 1 (IL-1) activity increased on 1th, 3th, 5th day (P less than 0.05) as compared with control. This result showed that the function of phagocytosis in macrophage is different from secretion. Lymphocyte proliferation decreased in ConA stimulated on 3th day after injury, the interleukin 2 (IL-2) activity decreased significantly on all days (12hr-5th day) (P less than 0.01). These might be related to the decrease of IL-2 and the decrease of immune function after burn injury. PMID- 2514034 TI - [Experimental study on lung injury following severe burn. Early changes in function and hemodynamics and morphologic changes in the lung of dogs with burns]. AB - This study investigated the pulmonary and hemodynamic dysfunction and morphologic changes after major burns. Full-thickness burns, 40% TBSA were produced in 9 dogs. Respiratory Rate (RR), airway resistance (Raw), effective compliance (Ec), lung impedance Zo (LIZo), pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP), pulmonary arterial wedge pressure (PAWP), blood gas monitoring, light and electron microscopic studies were performed. Following burns, RR, Raw, PAP and PAWP increased and Ec, LIZo, RaCO2 and PaO2 decreased significantly while morphologic evidence of endothelial and interstitial edema was associated with significant cellular infiltration of lung tissue, especially by leukocytes, showing evidence of degranulation. This results shown that a 40% TBSA burn without inhalation injury can produce lung injury similarly to adult respiratory distress syndrome. This lung injury is characterized by increasing pulmonary capillary permeability. Ec and LIZo monitoring may help to early diagnose of lung injury after major burns. PMID- 2514035 TI - [Advances in immunologic research on burns]. PMID- 2514036 TI - Protection of the immature myocardium during ischemic arrest: dose dependent effects of glucose and mannitol when added to St Thomas' cardioplegic solution. AB - It has been suggested that immature hearts are less well protected by conventional cardioplegic solutions than are adult hearts. In an attempt to develop an improved cardioplegic solution for use in the immature ischemic heart the authors investigated whether the addition of various concentrations of glucose or mannitol to St Thomas' Hospital cardioplegic solution can improve its protective ability. Hearts from immature (three- to five-day-old) rats were perfused as Langendorff preparations with an indwelling left ventricular balloon. Contractile function (left ventricular developed pressure, maximum rate of development of pressure, heart rate, rate-pressure product and coronary flow) was recorded before and after a period of normothermic global ischemia with preischemic infusion (2 mins) of St Thomas' Hospital cardioplegic solution. In preliminary experiments the post ischemic recovery of contractile function was related to the duration of ischemia. With 60, 75, 90 and 120 mins of ischemia the post ischemic recovery of developed pressure was 47.6 +/- 3.9%, 17.4 +/- 5.5%, 15.0 +/- 5.4% and 13.8 +/- 4.8%, respectively, of its preischemic control. Comparable results were obtained with the other indices of cardiac function. The effect on the post ischemic recovery of function and tissue water content of the addition of mannitol or glucose (10, 20, 40, 60 or 80 mmol/L) to the cardioplegic solution was examined after 60 mins of ischemia. The mannitol groups tended to show consistently better recoveries at all concentrations studied but the improvement was small and rarely achieved a degree of statistical significance. In contrast glucose gave a U-shaped dose response profile with a significant deleterious effect at 10, 20 and 40 mmol/L.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514037 TI - Clinical nurse specialist organizational value and role support. PMID- 2514038 TI - Cost effectiveness in the treatment of hypertension. AB - Treatment of hypertensive elderly patients reduces cardiovascular mortality. The drug regimen selected affects the cost per prevented death. Drug regimens may have a tenfold difference in cost per cardiovascular death prevented. PMID- 2514039 TI - Inhibitory effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, piroxicam and indomethacin on 4-nitroquinoline 1-oxide-induced tongue carcinogenesis in male ACI/N rats. AB - The effects of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), piroxicam and indomethacin on 4-nitroquinoline 1-oxide-(4-NQO)-induced tongue carcinogenesis in male ACI/N rats were examined. Rats were given 4-NQO (10 ppm) in the drinking water for 12 weeks and followed by either diet containing 150 ppm piroxicam or the drinking water containing 10 ppm indomethacin for 24 weeks. The incidence of tongue neoplasms (squamous cell papilloma and carcinoma) in rats given 4-NQO plus piroxicam (4/13, 31%) and those given 4-NQO plus indomethacin (3/13, 23%) were significantly lower than that of animals given 4-NQO alone (12/17, 71%) (P less than 0.05 and P less than 0.005). Rats given piroxicam or indomethacin alone had no neoplasms in the tongue. Thus, piroxicam and indomethacin significantly inhibited the development of tongue neoplasms in male ACI/N rats. PMID- 2514040 TI - DNA-adduct formation in the forestomach of rats treated with 3-tert-butyl-4 hydroxyanisole and its metabolites as assessed by an enzymatic 32P-postlabeling method. AB - Formation of DNA-adducts by 3-BHA or its metabolites, i.e., tert-butyl-1,4 benzoquinone (TBQ) and 5-methoxy-3-tert-butyl-1,2-benzoquinone (3-TBOQ), as well as DNA-adduct formation by 4-nitroquinoline-N-oxide (4NQO), in rat forestomach were examined by an enzymatic 32P-postlabeling assay. Four DNA-adducts were clearly detected in the forestomach after treatment of rats with 4NQO. The sensitivity was 1.9 certain adducts per 10(8) normal nucleotides. On the contrary, no DNA adducts were detected in the forestomach of rats given either a single or repeated oral administration (5 days) of 3-BHA, TBQ or 3-TBOQ. The analyses were carried out under conditions which could detect the DNA-adducts produced by reaction of TBQ with calf thymus DNA in vitro. The results suggest that formation of aromatic adducts in vivo by 3-BHA, TBQ or 3-TBOQ in the rat forestomach-DNA is not evident or at least below the detection limits of the current bioassay. PMID- 2514041 TI - [A case of atrial paralysis during the use of intravenous flecainide acetate]. AB - The aim of the present study is to describe a case of complete temporary atrial standstill, following iv administration of flecainide during the course of an endocavitary electrophysiologic study (EES). The patient, 79 years old, with frequent anamnestic periods of flutter and atrial fibrillation, which was followed by heart failure and with conductory disturbances to the surface ECG (first degree A-V block and left axis deviation), underwent EES in order to evaluate the functional reserve of cardiac eccito-conduction. With electric programmed stimulation, during EES, we induced atrial flutter, with a cycle length of about 300 ms. The administration of flecainide, dosage 1.5 mg/Kg in 15 min, determined the complete disappearance of every atrial electric activity, confirmed by right and left (coronary sinus) atrial mapping, also after electrical stimulation, and the emergency of substitutional ventricular rhythm, to a frequency of about 30-40/min. After atropine, dosage 0.02 mg/Kg iv, we noted an increase in the frequency of added focus up to the value of about 110 b/min, without any evidence of atrial electric activity. With sulfate isoprenaline in venous infusion, dosing 2 gamma/min, we noted firstly a ventricular-atrial back leading 1:1; and after an ectopic atrial rhythm, with a frequency of about 130 b/min. After 5 hours a sinusal rhythm appeared. PMID- 2514042 TI - Rapid lysis of life-threatening pulmonary thromboembolism following recent abdominal surgery using a modified systemic infusion of rt-PA. AB - A case of pulmonary thromboembolism in a young woman three days status post abdominal surgery is treated successfully with a low-dose infusion rate of tissue plasminogen activator (10 mg/hr over 10 h). Clinical improvement is rapid and there are no bleeding complications. PMID- 2514043 TI - Microbial enzymes for oxidation of organic molecules. AB - Enzymatic systems employed by microorganisms for oxidative transformation of various organic molecules include laccases, ligninases, tyrosinases, monooxygenases, and dioxygenases. Reactions performed by these enzymes play a significant role in maintaining the global carbon cycle through either transformation or complete mineralization of organic molecules. Additionally, oxidative enzymes are instrumental in modification or degradation of the ever increasing man-made chemicals constantly released into our environment. Due to their inherent stereo- and regioselectivity and high efficiency, oxidative enzymes have attracted attention as potential biocatalysts for various biotechnological processes. Successful commercial application of these enzymes will be possible through employing new methodologies, such as use of organic solvents in the reaction mixtures, immobilization of either the intact microorganisms or isolated enzyme preparations on various supports, and genetic engineering technology. PMID- 2514044 TI - Studies on antitumor agents. IX. Synthesis of 3'-O-benzyl-2'-deoxy-5 trifluoromethyluridine. AB - A practical synthesis of 3'-O-benzyl-2'-deoxy-5-trifluoromethyluridine (1), a candidate antitumor agent for clinical testing, was developed from 2'-deoxy-5 iodouridine (3). Benzylation of 2'-deoxy-5-iodo-5'-O-trityluridine (14) with benzyl bromide and sodium hydride in tetrahydrofuran gave the 3'-O-derivative (16). Benzoylation of 16 afforded the N3-benzoyl derivative (17). Coupling of 17 with trifluoromethylcopper, prepared from bromotrifluoromethane and copper powder in the presence of 4-dimethylaminopyridine, gave the 5-trifluoromethyl derivative (19) minimally contaminated with the 5-pentafluoroethyl compound. Deprotection of 19 furnished 1. PMID- 2514045 TI - Synthesis and aldose reductase-inhibitory activity of benzo[b]furan derivatives possessing a carboxymethylsulfamoyl group. AB - Various benzo[b]furan derivatives with a carboxymethylsulfamoyl group were prepared and evaluated for aldose reductase-inhibitory potency. Most of the compounds displayed significant inhibitory activities (IC50, 10(-8)-10(-7) M). Among the test compounds, the compounds having a carboxymethylsulfamoyl group at the 3- or 4-position exhibited the greatest inhibitory potency. Structure activity trends of the tested compounds are discussed. PMID- 2514046 TI - Development of effective cross-linking method for bioactive substance--enzyme immobilization using glutaraldehyde oligomers. AB - When a 10% aqueous solution of glutaraldehyde (GA) was alkalized to pH 8.5 in borate buffer solution and heated at 60 degrees C, the ultraviolet spectrum of GA solution showed two distinct absorption maxima. The one at 280 nm with a weak absorbance ascribable to the C = O bond in the aldehyde group shifted to near 300 nm after 50 min with a slight increase in its intensity. Another maximum at 235 nm with a strong absorbance was ascribable to the C = C bond of the alpha,beta unsaturated aldehyde group which was formed by aldol condensation reaction of GA monomer, and its absorbance increased markedly with increasing reaction time. The high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis with detection at 235 nm indicated that several GA oligomers were formed by the alkali treatment and their concentrations increased. The cross-linking ability of these oligomers was examined by immobilizing enzymes (alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), glutamate dehydrogenase (GLDH] to an aminated polymer gel matrix by reaction with the treated GA solution. The enzyme activities increased with increasing concentration of GA oligomers. Then, the GA oligomers were isolated and used as the cross-linking agent. The activities of ADH and GLDH were 4-fold and 13-fold higher, respectively, than those obtained by using untreated GA solution, while the total amounts of immobilized enzymes were almost unchanged. These results suggest that GA oligomers may act as cross-linkers in a manner different from the generally accepted Schiff base formation reaction; a possible mechanism may involve addition reaction of an amino group to the double bond in the aldol condensate of GA.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514047 TI - Studies on aldose reductase inhibitors from natural products. II. Active components of a Paraguayan crude drug "Para-parai mi," Phyllanthus niruri. AB - Aldose reductase (AR) inhibitory activity-directed fractionation of the 70% ethanolic extract of Para-parai mi, Phyllanthus niruri, has led to the isolation of three active components, ellagic acid (1), brevifolin carboxylic acid (4) and ethyl brevifolin carboxylate (5). Among them, 1 showed the highest inhibitory activity, being about 6 times more potent than quercitrin, which is a known natural inhibitor of AR. PMID- 2514048 TI - [Aldose reductase and its inhibitors. Current data]. PMID- 2514049 TI - Glucose 6-phosphate plays a central role in the regulation of glycogen synthesis in a glycogen-storing liver cell line. AB - Two substrains of the epithelial liver cell line C1I, one storing large amounts of glycogen, the other one being very poor in glycogen were used as a model for studying glycogen synthesis. The glycogen content of glycogen-rich cells doubled during the proliferative phase and remained high in plateau phase although glycogen synthase I activity was not significantly altered during growth cycle and was too low to account for the increase in glycogen. However, the activity of the glucose 6-phosphate (Glc6-P)-dependent synthase rose continuously during growth cycle, and intracellular Glc6-P-concentration increased about 10-fold in log phase cells to 0.72 mumol g-1 wet weight. A0.5 of synthase for Glc6-P was 0.79 mM. It was also found that in contrast to the enzyme from normal liver, glycogen phosphorylase a from C1I cells was inhibited by Glc6-P, the apparent Ki being 0.45 mM. It was concluded that glycogen accumulation in C1I cells was due to stimulation of synthase and inhibition of phosphorylase by Glc6-P. Findings from the glycogen-poor cell line which revealed similar specific activities of synthase and phosphorylase but only low Glc6-P (0.056 mumol g-1 wet weight) supported this conclusion. Addition of glucose to starved cells resulted in a transient activation of synthase in both cell lines. Net glycogen synthesis, was, however, only observed in the cells with a high Glc6-P-content. Thus, modulation of synthase and phosphorylase by Glc6-P and not activation/inactivation of the enzymes seems to play a predominant role in glycogen accumulation in this cell line. PMID- 2514050 TI - Plasma lipoproteins in infantile visceral leishmaniasis: deficiency of apolipoproteins A-I and A-II. AB - This study describes the plasma lipoprotein system of young children with visceral Leishmaniasis (Kala-azar disease). In addition to the presence of amastigote forms in the sternal aspirates of bone marrow, the patients exhibited fever, anemia, hepatosplenomegaly, various degrees of pancytopenia and a slight liver cytolysis. Patients had normal total cholesterol levels and increased triglyceride levels in the plasma. The concentrations of HDL and LDL were 30% and 50% of these reported for normolipemic subjects, respectively. In contrast, there was a three-fold increase in the concentration of VLDL. The ratio of free to total cholesterol was high; this was further substantiated by electron microscopy of HDL showing the presence of disc-like particles. Quantitative determination of apolipoproteins revealed a three- and seven-fold decrease of apolipoproteins (Apo) A-I and A-II, respectively, whereas Apo B levels were within the normal range. The presence of LP-A-II particles was demonstrated by two-dimensional immunoelectrophoresis in most of the patients' plasma during the acute phase of disease. PMID- 2514051 TI - Interaction of clonidine and GHRH on GH secretion in vivo and in vitro. AB - To investigate the mechanism by which clonidine stimulates GH-secretion in vivo and in vitro, we studied its interaction with GHRH. In vivo: eight or six normal male subjects were submitted to five protocols: (1) 150 micrograms clonidine orally followed by 50 micrograms GHRH 1-44 i.v. 2 h later, (2) 50 micrograms GHRH 1-44 i.v. followed by 150 micrograms clonidine orally 2 h later, (3) 150 micrograms clonidine orally followed by GHRH i.v. 30 min later, (4) 300 micrograms clonidine orally followed by 50 micrograms GHRH i.v. 3 h later and (5) 50 micrograms GHRH i.v. followed by 300 micrograms clonidine orally 90 min later. In vitro: Rat anterior pituitary cells were coincubated with clonidine (10(-11), 10(-9), 10(-7) and 10(-5) M) and GHRH (0.005, 0.05, 10 nM) for 4 h. RESULTS: 150 micrograms clonidine alone does not stimulate GH-secretion. Furthermore, the GH increase was not significantly different when GHRH bolus was given before, after or together with clonidine. When 300 micrograms clonidine was given before GHRH GH-levels were significantly higher (max 28.6 +/- 8.0 mU/l) at 90 min, compared to when clonidine was given after GHRH (max 7.8 +/- 3.6 mU/l). The GHRH bolus after clonidine led to a significantly lower GH-increase (max 31.6 +/- 17.0 mU/l) compared to the GHRH-induced GH-increase (max 47.2 +/- 13.0 mU/l) before clonidine. In vitro, clonidine had no stimulatory effect on GHRH-stimulated GH secretion. These findings are compatible with clonidine leading to stimulation of GH by inducing endogenous GHRH release. PMID- 2514052 TI - Pulsatile GnRH-therapy in oligozoospermic men does not improve seminal parameters despite decreased FSH levels. AB - In order to evaluate GnRH administration for the treatment of infertile men with elevated serum FSH levels we administered GnRH in pulses via portable electronic infusion pumps initially to seven patients with low sperm counts and high FSH values over 12 weeks and later to nine further patients over 24 weeks who also underwent testicular biopsies. Fifty microlitres containing 5 micrograms GnRH were infused subcutaneously for 1 min every 120 min in the short-term study and every 90 min in the long-term study. Although FSH levels could be lowered in both groups of patients, none showed any improvement in sperm count or other seminal parameters. Therefore, pulsatile GnRH treatment cannot be recommended for therapy of severe oligozoospermia with elevated FSH levels. PMID- 2514054 TI - Segmental neurofibromatosis with contralateral lentiginosis. AB - A female patient with neurofibromatosis (involving the segmental arrangement of neurofibromata) and contralateral partial lentiginosis is described. This case is an unusual presentation of segmental neurofibromatosis. PMID- 2514053 TI - GnRH agonist administration in polycystic ovary syndrome. AB - The study was designed to examine (1) the effects of the luteinizing hormone releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist, buserelin, on pituitary and ovarian hormone secretion, and (2) the effect that pituitary-ovarian suppression with a GnRH agonist has on subsequent ovulation induction with exogenous gonadotrophins (hMG), in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Two protocols were studied where buserelin was administered intranasally to all patients in a dose of 200 micrograms, six times daily. Ten patients received buserelin until an oestrogen withdrawal bleed occurred while a further 12 patients received buserelin for 4 weeks, before hMG was co-administered. Nine of the above subjects also underwent conventional ovulation induction with hMG. Blood samples were taken daily for radioimmunoassay of LH (LH-RIA), FSH, sex steroids and inhibin and for immunoradiometric assay of LH (LH-IRMA). Following buserelin administration there was an initial rise in LH-RIA, FSH, oestradiol (E2) and inhibin (P less than 0.01). Fourteen days were needed for LH-RIA to return to the normal range, with both protocols resulting in a fall in LH-RIA and FSH (P less than 0.01) before hMG was co-administered. Twenty-eight days of buserelin administration were needed to suppress E2 into the castrate range. Inhibin and both E2 and FSH were closely correlated throughout buserelin administration (P less than 0.01). There was failure to respond to an intravenous bolus of 100 micrograms of GnRH from 7 days of buserelin administration onwards, despite the serum LH-RIA still being raised at 7 days. Serum samples assayed for LH by RIA using WHO Matched Reagents and by IRMA were closely correlated (r = 0.96, P less than 0.01). There was no difference in the proportion of ovulations (52% vs 66%) or pregnancies (1 vs 1) in the GnRH agonist or control group. Similar amounts of hMG were needed in both groups and there was multiple follicular development (greater than 3 follicles greater than 15 mm diameter; 41% vs 38%) following hMG administration. There was a close correlation between E2 and inhibin levels (P less than 0.01).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2514055 TI - The role of coronary angioplasty in the treatment of patients with acute myocardial infarction: one interventional cardiologist's opinion. AB - The role of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) in patients with evolving or a recent acute myocardial infarction (AMI) continues to be defined. PTCA can be applied in most patients with AMI, but recent controlled trials have shown it will play a more supplemental role to intravenous thrombolysis than previously predicted. PTCA is useful in the immediate treatment of AMI patients with cardiogenic shock, those with contraindications to thrombolytic therapy, those with no clinical response to thrombolytic therapy, and perhaps in those in whom the AMI-related artery remain occluded. During the convalescent phase of AMI, PTCA is useful in patients with recurrent ischemia whether or not thrombolytic therapy was given initially. The percentage of patients with recurrent ischemia will vary depending on how vigorously it is searched for. For example, more patients will be identified if myocardial perfusion scanning is combined with predischarge stress testing than with stress testing alone, which in turn would identify more patients than with ischemia occurring only spontaneously. Whether all patients with "recurrent ischemia" should undergo further evaluation, whether or not ischemia is controlled with antianginal therapy, has not been definitively studied; but my response is in the affirmative. PMID- 2514056 TI - Role of interleukins in induction and regulation of human IgE. AB - The studies on human IgE synthesis here summarized provide further insight into the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in IgE regulation, as well as in the alterations responsible for IgE disregulation in some pathological conditions. They have clearly demonstrated that IL-4 is the essential factor for the induction of human IgE synthesis, since no substantial IgE production in vitro could be obtained in the absence of this lymphokine. Another T cell-derived lymphokine, IFN gamma, negatively regulates the IgE synthesis induced by IL-4. These two lymphokines can be produced by different T helper cells, as shown in mice, but they can also be the product of the same T cell clones. In such a case, the possibility that a given clone provides helper function for IgE seems to be dependent on the balance between the amounts of the two lymphokines produced. The IgE helper activity of rIL-4 appeared to be dependent on the presence in culture of appropriate concentrations of T lymphocytes, suggesting that T-B cell contact or other interleukins, such as IL-2 and IL-6, are needed in IL-4-dependent IgE synthesis. Finally, alterations of one or more of these regulatory mechanisms may play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of diseases characterized by a hyperproduction of IgE. PMID- 2514057 TI - Molecular mechanisms for suppression of B cell differentiation. AB - Murine B lymphocytes stimulated by bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or 8 substituted guanine nucleotides (8SGuo) proliferate and differentiate into immunoglobulin secreting plasma cells. Bivalent antibodies to the IgM receptor have opposing effects on this process. In LPS-stimulated cultures anti-mu suppresses differentiation but enhances proliferation. Both proliferation and differentiation are increased when anti-mu is added to 8SGuo-stimulated cells. In the LPS system, anti-mu treatment inhibits upregulation of transcription of a family of differentiation-related genes, including those for the mu chain, k light chain, and J chain. Induction of suppression requires synthesis of RNA and protein, suggesting involvement of a trans-acting transcriptional repressor. The possible involvement of this mechanism in B cell tolerance and cell lineage determination is discussed. PMID- 2514058 TI - Susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis--the conformational equivalence hypothesis. AB - The occurrence of the inappropriate immune response of rheumatoid arthritis is likely controlled by several alleles of class II DR beta chain genes of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC). These include certain of those that encode the serologically distinct DR1 and DR4 specificities. In a manner analogous to a segregation analysis, advantage was taken of ethnic differences in susceptibility associated with different alleles and parallel differences in the organization of the class II haplotypes that specify either similar or divergent serologic specificities. This permitted mapping of this disease susceptibility into a single equivalent polymorphic alpha helical conformation shared by each DR beta allelic product. This suggests that rheumatoid arthritis originates from a unitary immune recognition event initiated by particular class II MHC molecules. PMID- 2514059 TI - The genetics of autoantibody production in MRL/lpr lupus mice. AB - We have investigated the influence of background genes in the MRL strain, as compared to C57BL/6, on the induction of autoimmunity in homozygous lpr/lpr mice. We have concentrated on two autoantibodies, anti-Sm and anti-chromatin. The propensity to make anti-Sm is controlled by dominant genes from the MRL background. However, the prevalence of this response is under the control of additional recessive genes. The anti-chromatin response is found in both MRL/Mp lpr/lpr and in C57BL/6-lpr/lpr mice, but it appears earlier and in higher titers in the former strain. This high responder effect is controlled by dominant genes. In F1 mice between these two strains, both anti-Sm and anti-chromatin antibodies preferentially use the b Igh allotype from the low responder B6/lpr parent. In addition, in the progeny of backcross of the F1 to the MRL/lpr strain, the production of both anti-Sm and anti-chromatin is linked to the b allotype. These results demonstrate the contribution of dominant genes from the MRL background on the induction of severe autoimmunity. They also suggest that the B6 background expresses an Igh allotype particularly amenable to autoantibody production, in spite of the relatively mild SLE-like syndrome in this strain. PMID- 2514060 TI - The pathophysiology of anti-phospholipid antibodies. AB - Anti-phospholipids represent a heterogeneous family of antibodies able to react with the negatively charged phosphodiester groups of phospholipids. It includes the antibodies directed against the cardiolipin moiety of the VDRL antigen, the antibodies reacting with the phospholipids of the prothrombin activator complex and the antibodies able to react with solid phase cardiolipin. Data are reported indicating that reagins share distinct characteristics in comparison to the autoimmune anti-cardiolipin antibodies (ACA). On the contrary anti-phospholipid antibodies responsible for lupus-like anticoagulant activity display a quite similar reactivity with ACA, even if a complete overlapping cannot be demonstrated. The relationships between ACA and anti-DNA antibodies are also reported. The biological and clinical significance of these crossreactivities are discussed. PMID- 2514061 TI - [Late-infantile form galactosialidosis with psychomotor retardation and spastic paraparesis]. AB - We described a case of late-infantile form of galactosialidosis. This male patient was a product of normal pregnancy. His parents were first cousins. He first sat at eight months, walked and talked at two years of age. His gait gradually became unsteady and he was diagnosed as spastic paraparesis at the age of five years. Abnormally slow learning was first pointed out at seven years of age. At the age of nine years, we evaluated him in detail at our university hospital. Physical examination revealed a short stature for his age, slightly coarse face, short neck, funnel chest, genu, pes and hallucis valgus. Corneal clouding, hernia and angiokeratoma were not found. Neurological examination showed mental retardation, bilateral optic atrophy without cherry-red spots, and spastic and slightly ataxic gait. Slight muscular atrophy with weakness was also seen in the extremities, more remarkable in the lower limbs. Deep tendon reflexes were hyperactive with bilateral ankle clonus and no extensor planter response. Routine examination of blood, urine and cerebrospinal fluid were normal except for approximately 10% lymphocytes containing cytoplasmic vacuoles. X-ray films of the backbone exhibited vertebral plana with anterior breaking at the second lumbar vertebra level. The electroencephalography showed the multiple spike and slow wave complexes. Brain CT depicted the atrophy of cerebellum. The activities of sialidase and beta-galactosidase were markedly reduced in white blood cells and cultured skin fibroblasts in this patient. His urinary excretion of sialyloligosaccharides increased.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514063 TI - Abnormal thyroid hormone and thyrotropin levels in homozygous sickle cell disease. AB - Male patients with SS disease had significantly lower T3 and higher TSH levels than a comparison group. Stimulation with TRH in 10 male sibling pairs showed highly significant increases in T3 and TSH in both patients and sibling controls although the increase in TSH was significantly greater in SS disease. The interpretation of these findings is unclear although the thyroid indices indicate an abnormal pituitary-thyroid axis most consistent with a modest primary thyroid failure. PMID- 2514062 TI - Anaesthetic agents and their effect on tissue protein synthesis in the rat. AB - 1. Rates of protein synthesis were measured, in vivo, in lung, liver, heart and skeletal muscle of young male rats. Groups of rats were exposed for 1 h duration to one of the following anaesthetic regimens: 1.4% halothane, 2.2% halothane, 1.4% halothane in 66% nitrous oxide, intravenous pentobarbitone (20 mg/kg) and intravenous midazolam (18 mg/kg) combined with fentanyl (2 micrograms/kg). Fractional rates of protein synthesis were determined by injecting [3H]phenylalanine (150 mumol/100 g body weight). 2. Liver protein synthesis was depressed significantly by all regimens, except midazolam/fentanyl, by up to 37.7% of control values. Lung protein synthesis was significantly reduced by all the anaesthetic agents by up to 30% of control rates. 3. The effects of the anaesthetic agents on skeletal muscle and heart were small and not statistically significant. 4. There was no evidence of ventilatory depression as manifested by changes in arterial blood gas partial pressures of CO2 and O2, except in the group treated with 2.2% halothane. PMID- 2514064 TI - The Rh-negative donor. AB - By typing fully for Rh, donor samples found to be D-negative but C-positive and/or E-positive on the Kontron Groupamatic G2000, the incidence of Ccddee (r'r) was found to be 0.44%, ccddEe (r"r) 0.50% and Du 0.30%. A total of 15,000 samples typed on the Groupamatic as D-, C- and E-negative were tested by an antiglobulin technique for Du, but none was found to be positive. A new strategy was therefore adopted for routine Rh typing of donations that includes typing first-time donors on the Groupamatic for C, D and E antigens; those that type as D-negative, C positive and/or E-positive are further tested but no routine Du testing of D-, C- and E-negative donations is performed. Donations are labelled according to their D type, and the once used terminology 'Rh-positive donor, Rh-negative recipient' is no longer used except for those rare Rh D-positive donors belonging to the D category VI of Tippett & Sanger (1962). PMID- 2514065 TI - Benign paraproteinaemia and immune neutropenia. PMID- 2514066 TI - Pure red cell aplasia associated with chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia. PMID- 2514067 TI - Diagnosis and management of asthma. PMID- 2514068 TI - Prolonging life at home: what is the cost? AB - This paper describes one of the first attempts at an economic evaluation of a community care initiative for elderly mentally infirm people and their carers. It is demonstrated that community support provided mainly through an innovative Family Support Unit (FSU) is almost three times more costly than that which would otherwise be provided. However, FSU support results in prolonged life at home for elderly mentally infirm people, thus saving costly long-term care beds. If life at home is preferable to long-term care, FSU care can be judged cost effective. However, regarding implementation of such schemes, cash-limited local authorities appear to be forced to take on schemes which, despite being cost effective when taking a broad range of resources into account, cost more than they save as far as the local authority itself is concerned. PMID- 2514069 TI - Public and private immunisation services: a comparison of costs. AB - Cost inputs to infant immunisation programs were identified for both the public and private health systems, based on data from the fourteen local government areas which made up the Western Metropolitan Health Region in Sydney, New South Wales. The public health approach is shown to be significantly less costly than private immunisation services. The costs of the latter, however, are largely hidden within the national health bill, while the costs of the former are spread across all three levels of government. Total public sector costs of immunisation could be decreased, but only with increased input at the local government level. Thus, under present distribution and funding arrangements in NSW, covert fostering of the less cost efficient private immunisation services is likely to continue. PMID- 2514070 TI - Rat strain variations in liver cytosolic DT-diaphorase activity and possible significance of the trait in carcinogenesis by azo dyes. AB - 1. Strain variations among female rats in terms of cytosolic DT-diaphorase activity were studied in liver, heart and glandular stomach tissues with or without administration of 3-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyanisole (BHA). 2. BHA induced liver DT-diaphorase activity in all strains examined, and both the basal and induced activities varied according to strain. Among the five strains tested, Brown Norway (BN) and Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats showed relatively high levels of enzyme activity in the liver, whereas Fischer (F344) rats showed a relatively low level of activity. Results of examination of Fischer-BN-F1 rats indicated that a lower level of liver DT-diaphorase activity was inherited essentially as a dominant trait. 3. Liver DT-diaphorase activity in male rats was significantly lower than in female rats. Small strain variations of the activity, if any, were observed in the heart and stomach cytosolic fractions with or without induction by BHA. The magnitude of induction by BHA was also small, if any, in heart and stomach cytosolic fractions. 4. From these and other observations, we discussed the differences between rats and mice in these strain and tissue variations of DT diaphorase activity, and also the possible significance of liver DT-diaphorase activity in carcinogenesis by azo dyes. PMID- 2514071 TI - The effect of insulin on porcine adipose tissue lipogenesis. AB - 1. This laboratory and others have not been able to demonstrate consistent insulin stimulation of glucose incorporation into lipid by porcine adipose tissue in vitro. 2. A multiplicity of tissue handling procedures, additions to the incubation medium, and pig size (age) did not allow the expression of a consistent and substantial insulin stimulation. 3. It is suggested that the twofold or greater stimulation of glucose metabolism observed occasionally in this laboratory results from pig genetics, husbandry, or seasonal effects. PMID- 2514072 TI - Biochemical identification of thymosin alpha-1: its phylogenetic distribution and evolutionary implications. AB - 1. Thymosin alpha-1, like reactivity, was found in several different species (insects, crab, protozoan, fungus and bacteria) by radioimmunoassay and immune fluorescence and as an extracellular product from the bacterial genus Mycobacterium. 2. Biochemically, thymosin alpha-1 has been isolated from combined crab visceral and nervous tissue by reverse phase HPLC. 3. The identification of thymosin alpha-1 in lower life forms suggests a more generalized exocrine origin in unicellular organisms prior to the development of the immune system or exocrine differentiation. PMID- 2514074 TI - Detection of mycobacterial antigens in cerebrospinal fluid by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay utilizing anti-mycobacterial saline extract antibodies. AB - Using anti-mycobacterial saline extract antibodies, Mycobacterium tuberculosis antigens can be detected in cerebrospinal fluid by a highly specific and sensitive double-antibody sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The ELISA was dose-dependent and capable of detecting as little as 6.0 ng of antigens. Specificity was demonstrated by negative results (0.063 +/- 0.008) with other bacterial and cryptococcal antigens (n = 9), and maximum cross-reactivity with other mycobacteria was less than 2.0%. Absorbance for six patients with confirmed tuberculous meningitis gave results ranging from 0.168 to 0.898 with a mean value of 0.393 +/- 0.248. For 172 nonmeningitis and nontuberculosis control patients and 6 treated tuberculous meningitis patients, optical densities were 0.064 +/- 0.001 and 0.057 +/- 0.007, respectively. Significant statistical difference (p less than 0.001) was found between the tuberculous meningitis and control groups. PMID- 2514073 TI - Changes in the functions of the intestinal brush border membrane during the development of the ruminant habit in lambs. AB - 1. Brush border membrane vesicles were prepared from lamb enterocytes. These were used to study the changes in the enzyme contents and the transport capacities which occur during the change from a milk to a roughage diet. 2. Na+-dependent transport of D-glucose was present in all regions of the small intestine of pre ruminant lambs and absent in ruminants. 3. Na+-dependent transport of L-proline was present in all regions of the small intestine irrespective of the age of the animal. 4. Phosphate transport was seen only in the presence of a transmembrane pH gradient (acid outside). The transport was not stimulated by either Na+ or K+. The transport capacity increases 2-fold as the animal becomes ruminant. 5. The activities of lactase and maltase diminished with age. Alkaline phosphatase and aminopeptidase N activities remain constant. Sucrase activity cannot be detected in lambs of any age. PMID- 2514075 TI - A previously undescribed plasmid and African R plasmid in Neisseria gonorrhoeae isolated in Taiwan. AB - A new undescribed plasmid, 15.6-Mdal in size, was detected in Neisseria gonorrhoeae isolates in Taiwan. The plasmid was co-existent with 2.6-Mdal and 7.8 Mdal plasmids in three out of 190 clinical isolates. It appeared to be consisted of six copies of the 2.6-Mdal plasmids as evidenced by restriction endonuclease cleavage. In addition, African 3.2-Mdal R plasmids have also been detected in penicillinase-producing N. gonorrhoeae (PPNG) isolates in Taiwan. They accounted for 7% of PPNG. PMID- 2514076 TI - Islet transplantation to the renal subcapsular space in streptozotocin-diabetic rats: short-term effects on glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. AB - The immediate and short-term effects of transplantation of freshly isolated islets on glucose-stimulated insulin secretion were studied in streptozotocin diabetic rats. At 2 days after the intravenous injection of streptozotocin (70 mg/kg), either 400 or 1000 freshly isolated, hand-picked islets were transplanted to the left renal subcapsular space. Intravenous glucose infusion (10 mg/min) performed 1, 3, 6, and 10 days after transplantation revealed that already at day 3, rats transplanted with 1000 islets had a significant plasma insulin response to glucose, though the response was lower than in healthy controls. At 6 and 10 days after transplantation, the 1000 islet-transplanted group of rats had a near normal plasma insulin response to glucose. Basal plasma glucose levels were, however, still slightly elevated. Rats transplanted with 400 islets had a significant plasma insulin response at 10 days after transplantation, though the response was lower than in those transplanted with 1000 islets. It is concluded that a near-normal in vivo insulin secretory response to glucose is already obtained 6 days after transplantation with 1000 freshly isolated islets to the left renal subcapsular space in streptozotocin-diabetic rats. However, a slight hyperglycemia persists. PMID- 2514077 TI - The potential of schistosomal skin test as a diagnostic method in the detection of schistosomiasis. AB - One hundred and sixty seven volunteer medical students were exposed to intradermal skin tests for schistosomiasis. 35(21%) were positive. On further screening using routine stool and urine examinations, only 11(6.6%) were found to have eggs of Schistosoma mansoni. We conclude that although a useful procedure, schistosomal skin test should not be used alone for the diagnosis of schistosoma infections but should be complimented with the routine stool and urine examinations. PMID- 2514078 TI - Purification and partial characterization of a thermo-stable lipoprotein ("antigen 880") of hydatid cyst fluid (HCF). AB - A purification procedure for a HCF thermo-stable lipoprotein designated as "Antigen 880" and subsequent characterization are described. The molecular weight and PI of the lipoprotein were shown to be 240,000 daltons and 4.2 respectively. The antigenic activity of "Antigen 880" was not affected by trypsinization, pepsinization and delipidization. This suggested that the antigen activity of the lipoprotein recided in both the protein and lipid moieties. Treatment of the antigen with various concentrations of iodoacetamide and dithiothreital (DTT) and subsequent assay for antigenic activity showed that the two chemicals did not affect antigenic activity. This suggested that the di-suphide bonds were not a pre-requisite to antigenic integrity of the lipoprotein. After heating HCF at temperature between 105-121 degrees C, it was shown that "Antigen 880" was the only HCF antigen which retained activity at these temperatures. Further analysis of the supernate obtained after heating concentrated HCF at a temperature of 110 degrees C for 10 minutes by use of Sephadex G-200 column showed two peaks. Antigenic activity specific for "Antigen 880" was obtained in Peak I, while no antigen activity was found in Peak II. When Peak I was analyzed using step-by step DEAE 52 ion exchange chromatography, only one peak was eluted with 0.2M phosphate buffer, pH 8.5. This peak had antigenic activity for "Antigen 880". Analysis by disc-gel electrophoresis of the antigenic preparation obtained from the DEAE-cellulose column revealed one protein species. "Antigen 880" was shown to be stable for 10 months after incubation at pH1-11.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514079 TI - Smoking exerts unfavourable effect on human gastroduodenal mucosal endogenous prostacyclin-level. AB - It seems that endogenous prostacyclin is one of the most important natural protective substances in the (human) gastroduodenal mucosa. According to the observations, in humans there is a definite tendency toward decreased endogenous prostacyclin production in the gastroduodenal mucosa of smokers. This phenomenon draws attention to the possible role of smoking in the development of peptic ulcer disease. PMID- 2514080 TI - [Neurophysiological studies in HIV infection]. PMID- 2514081 TI - [Role of electroencephalography in the neurological diagnosis of HIV]. AB - Neurological diagnosis in HIV patients is usually impeded by nonspecific technical findings and the multiplicity of AIDS-associated neuromanifestations. Despite its limited specificity EEG is of great diagnostic value in patients afflicted by the most common primary neuromanifestation, i.e., AIDS encephalopathy. In the setting of an advanced HIV-infection with typical symptoms and absence of focal neurological signs, parietooccipital slowing of the EEG basal activity may allow the diagnosis of AIDS encephalopathy. Additional advantages of the EEG method consist of its non-invasive nature and the feasibility of repeated examinations for follow-up. Although in secondary neuromanifestations the diagnosis will usually be established by CCT or MRI, focal EEG changes may be of additional diagnostic value. PMID- 2514082 TI - [EEG findings during the course of HIV infection]. AB - Clinical neurological complications in HIV-infection (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) are seen in later stages of the disease. EEGs of 186 patients in different stages of HIV-infection and of 44 HIV-seronegative volunteers (total of 566 recordings) were evaluated visually; this revealed an increasing appearance of CNS-dysfunction (slowing of background activity, focal and diffuse CNS dysfunction) associated with a progression of the disease. Slowing of background activity was already found in early stages of HIV-infection. Additional focal and diffuse changes in the electrical activity of the brain are also seen with progression of the infection (LAS/ARC-AIDS). The correlation between these electroencephalographic changes and HIV related clinical symptoms are non specific however, EEG recordings can be a valuable aid in following CNS dysfunction during the course of HIV-infection. PMID- 2514083 TI - [EEG topography in HIV-positive hemophiliacs]. AB - HIV-central nervous system manifestations, here the AIDS-Dementia complex, are at the moment of special interest owing to its unexpected development. With EEG topography one can expect to gain more information about possible changes in frequency according to topographical location. We recorded 69 HIV-positive hemophiliacs (23 WR 2, 26 WR 3-5 and 6 patients) plus 50 HIV-seronegative controls with a 12 channel EEG-topography evaluation. During the critical examination we looked for the results of two parameters: a) alpha 1-3/alpha 4 and b) alpha 4-4/9. In comparison to the control group we found a statistical significance (p less than 0.05) for WR 2-6 in alpha 1-3/alpha 4 index. Concerning the alpha 1-4/9 index one can only recognize a statistical significance (p less than 0.05) for WR 3-6 patients in comparison to the controls. PMID- 2514084 TI - [EEG and SPECT in cerebral manifestations of AIDS]. AB - The purpose of the presented study was to determine the diagnostic value of correlated EEG and SPECT findings in patients with CNS-manifestations of AIDS. Ten HIV 1 infected patients had been examined. Diagnoses: meningitis (2 x), lymphoma (2 x), necrotizing encephalitis (1 x), toxoplasmosis (7 x) (Some patients had more than one diagnosis). Unenhanced and Gd-DTPA enhanced MR, 99mTc HM-PAO SPECT and clinical EEG were compared. In 9/10 patients MR demonstrated intracranial lesions. In one patient with necrotizing encephalitis (not detected by MR), SPECT revealed an inhomogeneous cerebral perfusion. Only lymphoma was hyperperfused. Toxoplasmic lesions-when detectable by SPECT-were hypoperfused. Reduced rCBF was also seen in brain regions not affected directly, but functionally associated to altered areas. EEG revealed diffuse signs such as slowing in patients with brain atrophy, but also in those patients with lesions of basal ganglia and thalamus. Focal signs in the EEG were in concordance with imaging findings in only 2/10 patients. In 4/10 patients foci even adjacent to the cortex - as shown by MR - remained undetected by EEG. One patient with an active toxoplasmosis had sharp waves over the affected region. The parallel application of the three methods as suggested in this paper appears useful not only for scientific purposes. In most cases, this procedure provides relevant diagnostic information. It is recommended for AIDS-patients with CNS manifestations of unknown etiology. PMID- 2514085 TI - [Visual motor coordination of AIDS patients, HIV-positive asymptomatic probands and healthy persons during video-tracking]. AB - Here we investigated the applicability of a computer-aided video-tracking as a method for evaluating potential deficits of neural information processing in patients with AIDS and those showing only positive HIV-seroreactivity. Video tracking was accompanied with a simultaneous recording of EEG. Eight HIV-positive asymptomatic volunteers and eight AIDS-patients with cerebral manifestation of the disease participated in the pilot study. Two groups of eight normals each served as a control. Video-tracking performance of the HIV-positive volunteers and AIDS-patients significantly differed (p less than 0.05) from those of the healthy volunteers. Although the AIDS-patients' performance tended to be worse than that of the HIV-group, this difference was not significant. Power spectrum analysis of the EEG-data indicated that the diminished performance of the two test groups (AIDS and HIV-positives), accompanied by an increased spectral power across the entire frequency range measured in the study, could be an expression of an enhanced synchronization in cortical neuronal networks. The synchronization in turn could be a sign of possible organic brain damage resulting from HIV infection. In conclusion, we suppose that video-tracking measures parameters which may indicate early deficits of information processing in CNS. PMID- 2514086 TI - [High-resolution eye movement recording in the assessment of neurologic complications in HIV-1 infection]. AB - HIV-1 related brain disease gives rise to widespread eye movement abnormalities that include impairment of fixation, saccadic speed and accuracy, antisaccadic generation and smooth pursuit function. Quantitative high resolution recording of eye movements is a valuable, non-invasive technique both for measuring the severity and progression of the AIDS dementia complex and the early detection of neurologic dysfunction in asymptomatic HIV-seropositive subjects or in patients with AIDS. In particular, it may be of use in neurologically at-risk patients requiring antiviral therapy and in monitoring the neurologic responses to such treatment. PMID- 2514087 TI - [New electrophysiological findings on the incidence of brain involvement in clinically and neurologically asymptomatic HIV infections]. AB - Motor (postural tremor of the outstretched hands, most rapid voluntary alternating index finger movements and rise times of most rapid voluntary isometric index finger extensions) and psychometric tests (multiple choice vocabulary test - form b, syndrome short test, the German version of the standard progressive matrices - Raven, and the psychic and somatic findings according to the AMDP-system) as well as MRI-Scans were analysed in 100 HIV-infected patients of all stages according to the actual CDC-classification, but without any central nervous or psychic deficit. Patients with drug, alcohol or tranquilizer abuse, opportunistic, cerebral infections or fever were excluded from the study. Tremor peak-frequencies and reaction times did not show any significant difference to an age- and sex-matched control group; the other motor parameters revealed significant slowing in the patient group and a worsening with the CDC-stages. MRI scans of all the patients were normal. The psychometric tests did not show significant alterations on a group statistical level, especially not in the depression scales. Morphologically, the motor performances of the HIV-infected patients resembled those of patients with basal ganglia diseases (M. Huntington, M. Wilson, M. Parkinson). Correspondingly, in some cases of clinically demented HIV-positive patients, MRI-scans showed lesions in the basal ganglia. It can be concluded, that there is an early subclinical central-nervous system affection in HIV-infected patients, especially of the basal ganglia, detectable with appropriate motor function tests sometimes considerably preceeding structural deficits seen later in the course of the disease in MRI-scans. PMID- 2514088 TI - [Polygraphic sleep data in AIDS patients]. AB - Somnopolygraphic recordings were registered from 29 patients with AIDS, their age ranged from 20 to 55 years (mean: 40.9; median: 44). The patients represent the full range of cerebral disintegration representing the picture of a progressing destruction of physiological sleep organization. Some disturbances begin quite early and progress successively, such as the reduction of REM- and delta-sleep as well as the reduction of sleep spindle- and K-complex-densities. Other changes are not manifest until intellectual capabilities break down; they occur massively such as the shortening of real sleep time and the reduction of sleep stage 2 with a simultaneous increase in waking time. It is remarkable that despite the enormous REM reduction there is no suppression of REM periods corresponding to "REM sine REM". REM periods become very short at an early stage; this is not only because the patients awake more frequently and earlier from their dream periods. PMID- 2514089 TI - [Effects of flurazepam on disturbed sleep in patients with AIDS]. AB - Polysomnograms were recorded of twelve patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) during different stages in an open design. During the first night no hypnotics were administered, during the second night 30 mg flurazepam per os were given. Flurazepam affected mainly the NREM parameters. The times "awake" during the night were reduced, sleep stage 2 showed an increase, and the effective sleep time was also increased. The increase in sleep spindle density was remarkable, however, delta sleep and generation of K-complexes were not affected. Flurazepam did not affect REM sleep at all. The amount of REM sleep showed a slight increase. REM distribution during the night did not show the "bell shaped" increase and the decrease in the morning; the degree of the illness correlated with a flattening of REM distribution. PMID- 2514090 TI - [Spectral power density and coherence in sleep EEG in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome]. AB - 15 male AIDS-patients from 26 to 55 years (mean 41.8 +/- 8.5) with various cerebral manifestations had a whole-night-sleep-EEG registration. As control the recordings of 15 age-matched volunteers (26-55 years, mean 41.8 +/- 9.8) were examined. Spectral characteristics of elementary EEG-epochs of 40 s length were computed, and sleep staging was performed visually for these intervals. The spectral power density of eight EEG-derivations (left and right frontopolar, frontal, central and occipital electrodes, reference montage to the ipsilateral Cb) were measured (sampling rate 64(-1) s, spectral resolution .25 Hz, frequency range from .25 to 24 Hz). Interhemispherical coherences of the frontal and occipital derivation pairs, and intrahemispherical fronto-occipital coherences of the left and right hemisphere, were computed. In the patients the frontal power density of NREM sleep showed lower values in the frequency range of 10 to 14 Hz. In central and in occipital derivations the power density between 12.5 and 15 Hz was lower in the patients, but the difference was less accentuated. The spectral power density of REM sleep showed similar characteristics in both groups. The interhemispherical frontal coherence of the whole frequency range below 13 Hz was markedly lower in the patient group. This was true for the NREM sleep, and, slightly less, for the REM sleep, too. The interoccipital spectral coherence was generally slightly lower in the patient group; the difference was most clearly in the 12.5 to 15 Hz range of NREM sleep. PMID- 2514091 TI - TRH-induced reflex changes in patients with ALS. AB - A trial of Thyrotropin Releasing Hormone (TRH) 5.0 mg/kg body weight subcutaneously every other day for two weeks produced transient increased tone in muscles, along with other (side-) effects in patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). One patient's extensor plantar transiently changed to a flexor plantar reflex after injection, probably due to disproportionate increase in tone of the calf muscles. No significant changes in F-waves or H-reflexes were seen. No increase in useful voluntary strength, or in strength measured by Medical Research Council (MRC) testing or strain gauge isometric strength testing was seen. However, dyspnea was seen within 10 minutes of TRH injection. PMID- 2514092 TI - Extracellular ATP stimulates poly(inositol phospholipid) hydrolysis and eicosanoid synthesis in mouse peritoneal macrophages in culture. AB - The effects of extracellular ATP on inositol phospholipid breakdown and synthesis of eicosanoids were studied in mouse peritoneal macrophages. Addition of ATP to intact cells labelled with [3H]inositol stimulated a rapid (within 10 s) formation of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate and inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate. In parallel there was also a substantial accumulation of inositol 1,3,4 trisphosphate and the monophosphate and bisphosphate derivatives of inositol. Within 10 s after the addition of 30 microM ATP there was a twofold increase in inositol trisphosphate (InsP3), which declined over 2 min. The ED50 for ATP stimulated generation of InsP3 was approximately 12 microM. ADP and GTP showed only weak effects on InsP3 formation, while AMP and adenosine were completely ineffective at 30 microM. Furthermore, the rank order of potency of ATP analogues was ATP greater than ATP[S] greater than AdoPP[NH]P = AdoPP[CH2]P greater than AdoP[CH2]PP thus, indicating the presence of a P2y-purinergic receptor. Cells labelled with [3H]arachidonic acid showed a 50% increase of label in 1,2 diacylglycerol after 15 s upon stimulation with ATP. In parallel to the stimulation of inositol phospholipid hydrolysis, ATP also caused a marked synthesis of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and leukotriene C4 (LTC4) in mouse peritoneal macrophages. The rank order of potency of ATP analogues was identical with that of InsP3 generation. The effect on eicosanoid synthesis could be mimicked by the calcium ionophore A23187 and the phorbol ester 12-O tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate. These results suggest that ATP-induced activation of P2y-purinergic receptors in mouse peritoneal macrophages triggers inositol phospholipid breakdown and eicosanoid synthesis. PMID- 2514093 TI - Purification of active human plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 from Escherichia coli. Comparison with natural and recombinant forms purified from eucaryotic cells. AB - Plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1) inhibits both tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA) and urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) and, therefore, is an important regulator of plasminogen activation. We have developed eucaryotic and procaryotic expression systems for PAI-1 and characterized the recombinant glycosylated and non-glycosylated products, together with a non-recombinant natural control, produced in the histosarcoma cell line HT 1080. For eucaryotic expression, the PAI-1 cDNA was stably transfected into chinese hamster ovary cells (CHO cells), while procaryotic expression in Escherichia coli was examined after inserting the DNA sequence encoding the mature PAI-1 protein into an inducible expression vector. Recombinant PAI-1 from CHO cells was purified approximately 50-fold in two steps and was indistinguishable from natural PAI-1. Between 3% and 4% of total cellular protein in the procaryotic expression system consisted of PAI-1, from which it was purified approximately 30-fold, with yields of between 15% and 20%. This PAI-1 formed 1:1 complexes with uPA and also with the single- and two-chain forms of tPA. Kinetic analysis demonstrated that the procaryote-produced PAI-1 had an inhibitory activity towards all three forms of PA that resembled that of natural PAI-1 with association rate constants of approximately 10(7) M-1 s-1. In contrast to PAI-1 from eucaryotic cells, the PAI 1 from E. coli had an inherent activity equal to that of guanidine/HCl-activated natural PAI-1. The activity could not be increased by treatment with denaturants suggesting that the latent form of PAI-1 was absent. However, at 37 degrees C the procaryote-produced PAI-1 lost activity at the same rate as natural PAI-1, with approximately 50% of the activity remaining after 3 h. This activity could be partially restored by treatment with 4 M guanidine/HCl. E. coli-derived PAI-1, added to human plasma and fractionated by Sephacryl S-200 chromatography, eluted in two peaks that were similar to those obtained with guanidine-activated PAI-1 from eucaryotic cells, suggesting that it bound to the PAI-1-binding protein (vitronectin). PMID- 2514094 TI - Immobilization and affinity purification of recombinant proteins using histidine peptide fusions. AB - A gene fusion approach to simplify protein immobilization and purification is described. A gene encoding the protein of interest is fused to a gene fragment encoding the affinity peptide Ala-His-Gly-His-Arg-Pro. The expressed fusion proteins can be purified using immobilized metal affinity chromatography. A vector, designed to ensure obligate head-to-tail polymerization of oligonucleotide linkers was constructed by in vitro mutagenesis. A linker encoding the affinity peptide, was synthesized and polymerized to two, four and eight copies. These linkers were fused to the 3' end of a structural gene encoding a two-domain protein A molecule, ZZ, and to the 5' end of a gene encoding beta-galactosidase. Fusion proteins, of both types, with zero or two copies of the linker showed little or no binding to immobilized Zn2+, while a relatively strong interaction could be observed for the fusions based on four or eight copies of the linker. Using a pH gradient, the ZZ fusions were found to be eluted from the resin at different pHs depending on the number of the affinity peptide. These results demonstrate that genetic engineering can be used to facilitate purification and immobilization of proteins to immobilized Zn2+ and that the multiplicity of the affinity peptide is an important factor determining the binding characteristics. PMID- 2514095 TI - Effect of glycosylation inhibitors on the structure and function of the murine transferrin receptor. AB - The murine transferrin receptor is a disulphide-linked dimer with three N glycosylation sites. We have investigated the structural and functional properties of the transferrin receptor from murine plasmacytoma cells (NS-1 cells) treated with the glycosylation inhibitor, tunicamycin and the glycosylation-processing inhibitors, swainsonine and castanospermine. 1. Tunicamycin (1 microgram/ml) inhibited mannose incorporation in NS-1 cells by greater than 90%, but also inhibited methionine incorporation by up to 50%. Both swainsonine (1 microgram/ml) and castanospermine (50 micrograms/ml) resulted in mannose incorporation greater than 100% of untreated cells and neither drug affected methionine incorporation. 2. Incubation of NS-1 cells with tunicamycin resulted in a shift in the apparent molecular mass of the transferrin receptor from 96 kDa and 94 kDa to approximately 82 kDa. 3. Peptide N-glycosidase F digestion of the receptor from untreated cells resulted in the fully deglycosylated 82 kDa component as well as an 87 kDa component which represents partially deglycosylated receptor resistant to peptide N-glycosidase F digestion. 4. The receptor from swainsonine-treated cells was equally sensitive to peptide N glycosidase F and endo-beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase H (endo H; resulting in both 87-kDa and 82-kDa components), whereas the receptor from castanospermine-treated cells was only partially sensitive to endo H. 5. Analysis of mannose- and fucose labelled cellular glycopeptides by concanavalin-A--Sepharose chromatography showed that swainsonine (1 microgram/ml) treatment resulted in approximately 90% inhibition of the synthesis of complex N-glycans and an accumulation of fucosylated hybrid structures. In contrast, castanospermine (100 micrograms/ml) treatment resulted in only partial inhibition (60%) of the synthesis of complex N glycans. 6. Analysis of the receptor from tunicamycin, swainsonine and castanospermine treated cells under nonreducing conditions showed a single component corresponding to the dimer, indicating that dimerisation of newly synthesised murine receptor is independent of carbohydrate. 7. The non glycosylated receptor from tunicamycin-treated cells appears to bind transferrin as demonstrated by interaction with transferrin-Sepharose. 8. Surface expression of the receptor was not significantly altered in the presence of either swainsonine or castanospermine as judged by flow cytometry. PMID- 2514096 TI - Distribution analyses of chain substituents of lipoteichoic acids by chemical degradation. AB - The lipoteichoic acid from Lactococcus lactis Kiel 48337 was analyzed. It had 61% of its glycerophosphate residues substituted with alpha-D-galactopyranosyl residues. Non-substituted glycerophosphate residues were split off by two alkaline hydrolyses and an intermediate enzymatic phosphomonoester cleavage. The resulting (GalGroP)nGroGal and (GalGroP)nGlc2Gro oligomers were separated by chromatography on DEAE-Sephadex into 10 pairs of molecular species with n from 1 to 10. The relative frequencies of GalGro and these oligomers were close to the values calculated by computer simulation for a random distribution of chain substituents. A similar series of oligomers was obtained in one step by hydrolysis of the lipoteichoic acid with 98% (by vol.) acetic acid. Due to side reactions, the picture was less precise but nevertheless indicative of the same distribution pattern. The data provide indirect evidence that the alanine ester substituents of the native lipoteichoic acid (Ala/P = 0.38) occupy the free positions between the galactosylated oligomers and are therefore themselves distributed randomly. PMID- 2514097 TI - 13C-NMR study of acetate assimilation in Thermoproteus neutrophilus. AB - Acetate assimilation into amino acids and the functioning of central biosynthetic pathways in the extremely thermophilic anaerobic archaebacterium Thermoproteus neutrophilus was investigated using 13C NMR as the method for determination of the labelling patterns. Acetate was assimilated via reductive carboxylation of acetyl-CoA to pyruvate and pyruvate conversion to phosphoenolpyruvate which was further carboxylated to oxaloacetate. 2-Oxoglutarate was mainly formed via citrate. However, the labelling patterns of glutamic acid and alanine were in agreement with the concurrent synthesis of about 15% 2-oxoglutarate and 5% pyruvate through the reductive citric acid cycle. A scrambling phenomenon occurring in aspartate and all amino acids derived through oxaloacetate was observed. The labelling patterns of amino acids were in agreement with their standard biosynthetic pathways, with two remarkable exceptions: isoleucine was synthesized via the citramalate pathway and lysine was synthesized via the 2 aminoadipate pathway which has previously been reported only in eukaryotic microorganisms. PMID- 2514098 TI - Muscarinic acetylcholine receptor-stimulated binding of guanosine 5'-O-(3 thiotriphosphate) to guanine-nucleotide-binding proteins in cardiac membranes. AB - Receptor-regulated binding of the labeled GTP analog, guanosine 5'-O-(3 thiotriphosphate) ([35S]GTP[S]), to guanine-nucleotide-binding proteins (G proteins) was studied in porcine atrial membranes enriched in muscarinic acetylcholine (mACh) receptors. Binding of [35S]GTP[S] to the membranes was not or only slightly affected by the cholinergic agonist, carbachol, unless a second nucleotide was simultaneously present in the binding assay. This additional nucleotide requirement was best fulfilled by GDP, being maximally effective at 0.1-1 microM. In contrast, the GDP analog, guanosine 5'-O-(2-thiodiphosphate), could not replace GDP in promoting carbachol-induced increase in [35S]GTP[S] binding. In addition to GDP, agonist-induced stimulation of [35S]GTP[S] binding to porcine atrial membranes required the presence of Mg2+, being half-maximally and maximally effective at about 30 microM and 300 microM, respectively. Addition of NaCl, which decreased control binding measured in the presence of GDP alone, had no effect on the maximal extent of agonist-stimulated binding, but reduced the potency of carbachol in stimulating [35S]GTP[S] binding. Under optimal conditions, carbachol increased the binding of [35S]GTP[S] without apparent lag phase up to about 2.5-fold, with half-maximal and maximal increase being observed at 5-10 microM and 100 microM, respectively. The agonist-induced stimulation was competitively antagonized by the mACh receptor antagonist, atropine. The number of GTP[S] binding sites under receptor control was two--three-fold higher than the number of mACh receptors in the porcine atrial membranes used. Pretreatment of the membranes with pertussis toxin under conditions leading to 95% ADP ribosylation of the toxin-sensitive G-protein alpha-subunits markedly reduced agonist-stimulated [35S]GTP[S] binding, with, however, about 30% stimulation still remaining. The data presented indicate that agonist-stimulated binding of [35S]GTP[S] to G-proteins can be a sensitive assay for measuring receptor regulated G-protein activation in native membranes and, furthermore, suggest that one agonist-activated mACh receptor can activate two or three cardiac G-proteins, being mainly members of the pertussis-toxin-sensitive G-proteins. PMID- 2514099 TI - Cost-benefit analysis of medical vs surgical treatment of symptomatic patients with accessory atrioventricular pathways. AB - Surgical treatment of patients with an accessory atrioventricular pathway leading to symptomatic arrhythmias provides effective control. However, surgical treatment is usually considered only when medical treatment fails. To assess the cost-benefit ratio of medical vs surgical treatment 77 patients treated with antiarrhythmic drugs were compared with 50 patients treated surgically. Cost was calculated by considering current costs for drugs, surgery and pacemakers, electrophysiological investigations, outpatient clinic controls, and costs of readmissions because of tachycardia. Mean cost per treated patient and mean cost per successfully treated patient (total cost divided by the number of patient not requiring readmission during follow-up) was respectively 4242 and 6949 US dollars after 56 months for the medically treated group and 10800 and 11250 US dollars for the surgically treated group. A projection of costs demonstrated that costs of medical treatment was the same as costs of surgical treatment after 12.5 years of treatment but a higher number of medically treated patients remain symptomatic. We conclude that surgical treatment of symptomatic patients with accessory pathways has a better cost-benefit ratio than medical treatment and should be considered earlier without waiting for failure for medical treatment. PMID- 2514100 TI - Successful thrombolysis on a mechanical tricuspid prosthesis. AB - Recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator (rt-PA) is presently used for the treatment of different clinical entities, mostly myocardial infarction. Its use for treatment of thrombotic dysfunction of prosthetic cardiac valves is more recent and has been only rarely reported. A 33-year-old woman with a St Jude Medical prosthesis in the tricuspid position, had suffered from thrombotic dysfunction of her prosthesis for more than 2 months. She was treated with rt-PA, and after infusion of 70 mg, the prosthesis functioned normally. She showed a moderate systemic fibrinolytic state associated with mild bleeding complications. PMID- 2514101 TI - The role of the fibrinolytic system in acute myocardial infarction after a normal exercise test. AB - A 67-year-old man had an acute myocardial infarction with thrombosis in the left anterior descending artery shortly after normal exercise. We were able to measure the fibrinolytic components in this patient just prior to his developing acute myocardial infarction as well as during convalescence. In this case, marked increase in total plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) antigen, mainly due to free PAI-1 antigen, was observed in basal conditions before the onset of acute myocardial infarction. On the appearance of ischaemia, plasminogen activator activity was suppressed, probably due to decreased tissue plasminogen activator antigen release and increased PAI activity, compared with that during convalescence. This suggests that some patients with coronary artery disease who have a high level of free PAI-1 antigen in basal conditions may have a strong tendency to develop acute myocardial infarction, due to further impaired fibrinolysis on the induction of ischaemia. PMID- 2514102 TI - Sphingolipid activator protein deficiency in a 16-week-old atypical Gaucher disease patient and his fetal sibling: biochemical signs of combined sphingolipidoses. AB - We describe a patient who presented shortly after birth with hyperkinetic behaviour, myoclonia, respiratory insufficiency and hepatosplenomegaly. Gaucher like storage cells were found in bone marrow. A liver biopsy showed massive lysosomal storage morphologically different to that in known lipid storage disorders. Biochemically, the patient had partial deficiencies of beta galactocerebrosidase, beta-glucocerebrosidase and ceramidase in skin fibroblast extracts, but the sphingomyelinase activity was normal. Glucosyl ceramide and ceramide were elevated in liver tissue. Loading of cultured fibroblasts with radioactive sphingolipid precursors indicated a profound defect in ceramide catabolism. Immunological studies in fibroblasts showed a total absence of cross reacting material to sphingolipid activator protein 2 (SAP-2). The patient died at 16 weeks of age. The fetus from his mother's next pregnancy was similarly affected. The possibility that the disorder results from a primary defect at the level of SAP-2 is discussed. We have named this unique disorder SAP deficiency. PMID- 2514103 TI - Semi-late onset and rapidly progressive case of Lafora's disease with predominant cognitive symptoms. AB - The authors report a sporadic case of Lafora's disease, unusual for the comparatively late age at onset and atypical evolution. Discrete visual phenomena that may be considered as partial seizures occurred at age 19 years. A generalized tonic-clonic seizure occurred at 20 years of age and myoclonus became apparent a few weeks later. A massive cognitive dysfunction was clearly apparent 3 months after the first seizure and further mental deterioration occurred although seizures were controlled by medication and myoclonus remained minimal. The EEG showed the typical association of generalized and focal (occipital) changes. Axillary++ skin and muscle biopsies were positive and easily confirmed the diagnosis. The clinical presentation of Lafora's disease is considered by the authors to be sufficient for a clinical diagnosis, even in such an atypical case. Confirmation by skin biopsy is easily obtainable. PMID- 2514104 TI - Focal epilepsy as a possible sign of transient subclinical ischemia. AB - Late-onset partial epileptic seizures occurred in 10 patients with symptoms and/or signs of ischemic cerebrovascular disease (ICVD) and were associated with transient ischemic attacks in 7 of them. History, somatic and neurological examinations, laboratory and ancillary investigations and follow-up revealed no other disease which might be responsible for the seizures. The anatomical and temporal proximity of signs of ICVD indicate the latter as the most likely cause of seizures. Although the available neuroimaging did not allow us to rule out the presence of silent cerebral infarctions in all patients, it is conceivable that jacksonian seizures, and more rarely complex partial seizures, might occasionally represent a clinical sign due to transient cerebral ischemia and thus herald major cerebrovascular events. PMID- 2514105 TI - In vitro production of IL 1 beta, IL 1 alpha, TNF and IL2 in healthy subjects: distribution, effect of cyclooxygenase inhibition and evidence of independent gene regulation. AB - Numerous studies have reported altered in vitro cytokine production in various diseases. In the present study we used specific immunoassays to quantitate production of interleukin 1 beta (IL 1 beta), IL 1 alpha, tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and IL 2 from human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). The distribution of cell-associated and secreted cytokines was studied in PBMC of 21 individuals; in response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) the proportion of cell associated IL 1 beta ranged from 13% to 56%, for IL 1 alpha 29% to 98%, and for TNF 2% to 17%. In a larger cohort of 32 subjects, the total amount of immunoreactive cytokines produced in response to LPS or phytohemagglutinin was normally distributed within the study group. Mean production of IL 1 alpha in response to LPS was 10.1 ng/ml and exceeded production of IL 1 beta (5.6 ng/ml) and TNF (2.2 ng/ml). The distribution pattern was characterized by high intersubject variability extending over two orders of magnitude and the presence of high and low "producers". Production of IL 1 alpha and IL 1 beta correlated (R = 0.69). In contrast, production of IL 1 beta did not correlate with production of TNF or IL 2. Indomethacin present during stimulation of PBMC increased the amount of IL 1 beta produced and showed a high correlation (R = 0.83) compared to cultures without indomethacin. Thus, low production of IL 1 beta in certain subjects appears not to be due to inhibitable levels of cyclooxygenase products. In a retrospective study, PBMC from 12 subjects who had taken oral cyclooxygenase inhibitors during the preceding 7 days produced 43% more IL 1 beta than subjects who did not take these drugs (p less than 0.05). These studies demonstrate that the amount of cytokine synthesized by PBMC (a) is regulated independently for IL 1, TNF and IL 2; (b) correlates for IL 1 beta and IL 1 alpha; (c) is intrinsic for low and high "producers", and (d) production of IL 1 beta increases with the use of oral cyclooxygenase inhibitors. PMID- 2514106 TI - The alpha 3 domain of major histocompatibility complex class I molecules plays a critical role in cytotoxic T lymphocyte stimulation. AB - Allogeneic major histocompatibility complex class I molecules induce strong cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) responses whereas xenogeneic molecules do not. We have tested a series of mouse/human hybrid molecules for their ability to stimulate mouse CTL. The molecules with murine alpha 3 domains consistently stimulated stronger CTL responses than those with human alpha 3 domains, independent of the species origin of the N-terminal alpha 1 or alpha 2 domains. We have found that the ability of class I molecules to induce strong cytotoxic responses correlates positively with their ability to stimulate expansion of the CD8+CD4-T cell subset. The results indicate that mouse T cells can recognize class I molecules with human alpha 1 and/or alpha 2 domains, but for efficient stimulation of these T cells it is important that the immunizing molecule contains a murine alpha 3 domain. We suggest that T cell priming requires an efficient interaction of CD8 with the class I alpha 3 domain, and this shows some species restriction. PMID- 2514107 TI - Contraction followed by relaxation in response to hypoxia in the sheep isolated middle cerebral artery. AB - In rings of sheep middle cerebral artery, precontracted with 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) 10 microM, hypoxia (pO2 = 10 mm Hg) caused contraction and re-oxygenation caused a transient further relaxation. The hypoxic contraction was abolished and the re-oxygenation relaxation was reduced by removal of the endothelium. BW755C 20 microM reduced the hypoxic contraction and re-oxygenation relaxation. Haemolysate 1 microliter/ml and methylene blue 10 microM reduced the hypoxic contraction and re-oxygenation relaxation and enhanced the hypoxic relaxation phase. It is concluded that the endothelium of isolated rings of sheep middle cerebral artery releases vasoconstrictor substances during hypoxia and releases vasodilator substances during re-oxygenation. PMID- 2514109 TI - An outbreak of paratyphoid fever in the UK associated with a fish-and-chip shop. AB - An outbreak of Salmonella paratyphi B infection in the UK associated with a fish and-chip shop is reported. The source of infection for the first three cases was believed to be a food handler who was infected overseas 6 years earlier. His wife whose faeces and urine were originally culture negative continued to run the shop but subsequently her faeces became positive on one occasion. She was considered to have been the source of two further cases, and secondary household spread of infection from these two cases resulted in one symptomatic and two asymptomatic infections. A second household contact of the proprietor also became a faecal excretor 2 months later. We recommend that food handlers living in households or in intimate contact with cases or carriers of S. paratyphi B should be put off work until all household contacts cease excreting the organism. PMID- 2514108 TI - Susceptibility of enterococci and epidemiology of enterococcal infection in the 1980s. PMID- 2514110 TI - Esterase electrophoresis: a molecular tool for studying the epidemiology of Branhamella catarrhalis nosocomial infection. AB - A new epidemiologic typing method based on electrophoresis of esterases had been developed for differentiating between clinical isolates of Branhamella catarrhalis. Twenty-two epidemiologically significant strains obtained from three Chest Units, a Paediatric Intensive Care Unit and a Paediatric Unit were compared with 54 randomly selected strains and 4 reference strains, including the species type strain, ATCC 25238. Thirty-four distinct zymotypes were characterized by polyacrylamide-agarose gel electrophoresis of the 80 strains. One infrequent zymotype was found in 2 neonates and another in 2 adults with nosocomial bronchopulmonary infections, suggesting the nosocomial spread of 2 outbreak strains of B. catarrhalis. A more frequent zymotype was isolated from 3 neonates with nosocomial bronchopulmonary infection and from 2 children with nosocomial rhinopharyngitis. The remaining 12 epidemiologically significant strains were of varied zymotypes. This work demonstrates that esterase electrophoresis is a suitable, readily reproducible, stable typing system applicable to the wide range of strains found in B. catarrhalis nosocomial infections. PMID- 2514111 TI - Genotyping of Pseudomonas aeruginosa sputum and stool isolates from cystic fibrosis patients: evidence for intestinal colonization and spreading into toilets. AB - Three hundred and fifty-eight stool and 131 sputum specimens from 40 cystic fibrosis (CF) patients and 100 toilet sinks were investigated for occurrence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa; 67% (21/31) of the patients with chronic P. aeruginosa lung infections carried the organism repeatedly in the stool but the organism was found only once in the stools of nine uninfected patients. P. aeruginosa stool carriage was correlated to high P. aeruginosa numbers in patients' sputa. Typing of P. aeruginosa with a DNA probe showed identity of sputum and stool strains. Seven patients repeatedly carried additional stool strains, not found in the sputum, suggesting intestinal colonization. No differences were seen in the clinical state of patients with P. aeruginosa-negative stool samples and patients with positive stool samples. Toilets in households of P. aeruginosa-infected CF patients were significantly more often contaminated with P. aeruginosa (42%) than toilets in households of non-infected CF patients (20%; P less than 0.03). The study shows that P. aeruginosa-infected CF patients may harbour the organisms also in the intestinal tract, and may spread the bacteria into toilets. PMID- 2514113 TI - Immunity against diphtheria in adults in Poland. AB - The diphtheria immunity status was determined with the passive haemagglutination technique in 503 sera of 10-90-year-old persons from Warsaw and Olsztyn Provinces. Donors of sera were students, teachers, pregnant women, employees of industry and medical service. The immunity was highest (90% of titers 0.1 IU/ml or higher) in persons below 20 years of age and in persons above 60 years of age (55%). Between these two groups, gaps in immunity exist, the proportion of those immune varying from 36-50% in the 20- 60-year-old groups. Since a large pool of susceptible persons creates an epidemic potential it was suggested that the adult type of tetanus-diphtheria toxoid (Td) should be introduced into the routine immunization schedule for high risk groups. These groups might include professional or age groups who are vulnerable to reintroduction of virulent Corynebacterium diphtheriae such as kindergarten and creches personnel, teachers, students, military service personnel and persons travelling to developing countries. PMID- 2514112 TI - Multiresistant serotype O 12 Pseudomonas aeruginosa: evidence for a common strain in Europe. AB - A survey was made of serotype association and multiple antibiotic resistance in strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in Europe. Of 208 epidemiologically distinct strains from 16 laboratories in 10 countries, 48 were resistant to carbenicillin (MIC greater than 128 micrograms/ml) and gentamicin (MIC greater than 4 micrograms/ml), and 12 of these strains were of serotype O 12. Representative O 12 strains from different countries were compared with two multiresistant O 12 strains isolated 5 years apart, from a British burns unit and the antibiotic sensitive serotype reference strain. All O 12 strains were similar by phage and pyocin typing but lysogenic phage profiles indicated that two strains (the later burns isolate and the serotype strain) were distinct from the others. Electrophoretic characterization of outer membrane proteins, lipopolysaccharides and esterase enzymes corroborated the relationship of the strains and restriction fragment length polymorphism of DNA fragments hybridized with a cDNA probe copy of rRNA from P. aeruginosa provided further proof of their relatedness. We propose that the uniformity of characters of multiresistant O 12 P. aeruginosa in Europe is suggestive of a common origin for the strains. PMID- 2514114 TI - Laboratory diagnosis of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection. 3. Detection of IgM antibodies to M. pneumoniae by a modified indirect haemagglutination test. AB - The indirect haemagglutination (IHA) test was compared with the complement fixation (CF) test for the measurement of antibodies to Mycoplasma pneumoniae. A modification of the IHA was used to measure M. pneumoniae IgM antibodies. Sera were obtained from various groups of patients who were either culture or antigen positive for M. pneumoniae in nasopharyngeal aspirates or who had fourfold or greater increase in CF antibody or a titre greater than or equal to 320. The results of these comparisons showed that the modified IHA test was specific and more sensitive (89% as opposed to 64%) than the CF test. The modified IHA test for the detection of IgM antibody was highly effective in the recognition of recent or current infection with the mycoplasma. It was also of equal sensitivity to an indirect enzyme immunoassay for the detection of IgM antibodies to M. pneumoniae. PMID- 2514115 TI - The cell-surface antigens of Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron. AB - Three strains of B. thetaiotaomicron of different origin were investigated. Lipopolysaccharides were extracted from the studied strains using a phenol-water method. The best purification of LPS was achieved by digestion with nuclease and subsequent ultracentrifugation. Capsular material (CPS) was obtained from the most heavily encapsulated strain. The preparation were analyzed chemically, and their serological activity was determined. All antigens were active with homologous antibacterial sera in immunodiffusion, crossed immunoelectrophoresis, and passive hemagglutination tests. In the CPS equal amounts of saccharides and proteins were detected. All antigens were analyzed by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis with SDS. Capsular antigen slowly migrated in the gel in the form of a single band. Migration pattern of lipopolysaccharides of the studied B. thetaiotaomicron strain was characteristic for S-type LPS. PMID- 2514116 TI - Cruzan by Cruzan v Harmon. PMID- 2514117 TI - Kinetics of C-reactive protein in acute viral hepatitis. AB - The significance of C-reactive protein (CRP) in acute viral hepatitis was studied by measuring the serum CRP level in patients with acute hepatitis type A (AHA), B (AHB), and non-A, non-B (AHNANB) and examining its localization in liver biopsy specimens by the immunohistochemical method. The mean value of the serum CRP level determined by enzyme immunoassay (EIA), was markedly increased in the acute phase of AHA and AHB, particularly the former. It decreased rapidly in both AHA and AHB during the convalescent phase, but was generally low in AHNANB with no marked difference between the acute phase and the convalescent phase. Under light microscopy, CRP was stained in the cytoplasm of hepatocytes, and immuno-reactive products were observed in the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) by electron microscopy. In the acute phase, the intensity of staining was slightly greater in AHA, decreasing during the convalescent phase in AHA and AHB, but only weak staining was observed in all patients with AHNANB. Evaluation of CRP may be useful for clarification of differences in clinical manifestations and the mechanisms of inflammation among different types of hepatitis. PMID- 2514118 TI - Cloning of serum RNA associated with hepatitis C infection suggesting heterogeneity of the agent(s) responsible for the infection. AB - Fifty-six lambda gt11-random-primed-cDNA recombinants of which translation products react with antibodies in the serum drawn from patients with hepatitis C (blood-borne non-A, non-B hepatitis) were cloned from serum pooled from donors presumably infected with hepatitis C. The specificity of these clones for hepatitis C infection was determined using 3 test panels. Of these 29 clones were determined to be specific for Japanese hepatitis C infection. However one of the 29 clones was positive for 1 out of 5 normals in an American test panel while 12 clones were positive for the American panel as well. The remaining 28 clones reacted well with serum from transfusion associated chronic hepatitis C comparing to the sporadic cases in the Japanese panel. When they were tested with normal donors, another clone reacted with a distinct donor group with which the other clones did not react. These results may suggest the presence of heterogeneity in Japanese hepatitis C. PMID- 2514119 TI - Temporal and spatial control of the mother-cell regulatory gene spoIIID of Bacillus subtilis. AB - Gene expression during endospore formation in Bacillus subtilis is compartmentalized between the mother-cell and forespore chambers of the sporangium, which follow separate pathways of cellular differentiation. The earliest acting regulatory gene so far identified in the mother-cell line of gene expression is spoIIID, whose product is required for the transcription of the composite gene (sigK) encoding the mother-cell RNA polymerase sigma-factor sigma K and for the chromosomal rearrangement that gives rise to the composite gene. Here we report the nucleotide sequence of spoIIID and studies on the temporal, spatial, and genetic control of its expression during sporulation. We show that the deduced spoIIID gene product, a 93-residue-long polypeptide, is a previously identified transcription factor that is known to activate the promoter for the sigK gene in vitro. Expression of spoIIID is largely confined to the mother-cell chamber of the sporangium and is turned on at, or shortly before, the time (hour 3 of sporulation) that the mother-cell chromosome is rearranged and transcription of the sigK gene commences. This gene expression depends strongly on the sporulation sigma-factor sigma E and partially on the spoIIID gene product, itself. We conclude that the timing and compartmentalization of the rearrangement and transcription of the sigK gene and, hence, of subsequent gene activation in the mother cell, are, in part, direct consequences of the temporal and spatial control of spoIIID gene expression. PMID- 2514120 TI - cappuccino and spire: two unique maternal-effect loci required for both the anteroposterior and dorsoventral patterns of the Drosophila embryo. AB - cappuccino and spire are unique Drosophila maternal-effect loci that participate in pattern formation in both the anteroposterior and dorsoventral axes of the early embryo. Mutant females produce embryos lacking pole cells, polar granules, and normal abdominal segmentation. They share these defects with the posterior group of maternal-effect genes. Although embryos are defective in abdominal segmentation, in double mutant combinations with Bicaudal D, abdominal segments can be formed in the anterior half of the egg. This indicates that embryos produced by mutant females contain the 'posterior determinant' required for abdominal segmentation (Nusslein-Volhard et al. 1987) and suggests that the wild type gene products are not required for production of the posterior determinant but, rather, for its localization or stabilization. The vasa protein, a component of polar granules, is not localized at the posterior pole of mutant egg chambers or embryos, providing additional support for the hypothesis that localization to or stabilization of substances at the posterior pole of the egg chamber is defective in mutant females. Females mutant for the strongest alleles also produce dorsalized embryos. Phenotypic analysis reveals that these dorsalized embryos also have abdominal segmentation defects. The mutant phenotypes can be ordered in a series of increasing severity. Pole cell formation is most sensitive to loss of functional gene products, followed by abdominal segmentation, whereas normal dorsoventral patterning is the least sensitive to loss of functional gene products. In addition, mutant females contain egg chambers that appear to be dorsalized, resulting in the production of eggs with dorsalized eggshells. Germ line mosaics indicate that cappuccino and spire are required in the oocyte-nurse cell complex. This suggests that the eggshell phenotype results from altered pattern in the underlying germ cell. Also, we defined the epistatic relationships between several early patterning loci, on the basis of an analysis of the eggs and embryos produced by females doubly mutant for cappuccino or spire and other loci that affect the pattern of both the egg and the embryo. On the basis of our current knowledge of the genes involved in this process, we formulated a working model for the early steps in dorsoventral patterning. PMID- 2514121 TI - Synthesis and refolding of human tissue-type plasminogen activator in Bacillus subtilis. AB - A 1.6 kb cDNA fragment encoding the mature part of the human tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA) was subcloned into a Bacillus subtilis dual plasmid expression system [Le Grice et al., Gene 55 (1987) 95-103]. Expression of the tPA gene in this vector was regulated by the inducible Escherichia coli lac elements, as well as a strong phage-T5-derived promoter and ribosome-binding site preceding the polylinker. The 5' end of the tPA gene corresponding to the N terminus of mature t-PA was fused in phase to the third codon present in the polylinker region of the expression vector, p602/22, to form p602-t-PA. B. subtilis containing p602-t-PA, when induced with isopropyl-beta-D-thiogalactopyranoside, produced large amounts of immunoreactive t-PA (approx. 20 micrograms/ml). As expected, t-PA was not secreted into the culture media, but was localized in intracellular inclusion bodies and was found to be enzymatically inactive. However, enzymatic activity could be regained following complete reduction followed by slow oxidation of the solubilized inclusion bodies. The recombinant t PA (rt-PA) showed, after purification, a smaller molecular size than melanoma t PA, probably due to lack of glycosylation in the Bacillus system. Like melanoma t PA, rt-PA exhibited tremendous stimulation of plasminogen activation in the presence of fibrin. Our results illustrate that B. subtilis, when supplied with the proper transcriptional/translational regulatory elements, can be an effective system for expression of heterologous gene products. PMID- 2514122 TI - Introns in the 3'-untranslated region can inhibit chimeric CAT and beta galactosidase gene expression. AB - The expression of a cyc::cat [cytochrome c/chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT)] chimeric gene was stimulated 100-fold by the inclusion of a cyc intron in the 5'-untranslated region. In contrast, a single intron in the 3'-untranslated region was at best only slightly stimulatory, and surprisingly, inhibited expression of cat when an intron was also included in the 5'-untranslated region. This inhibition was independent of the identity of the downstream intron, occurring when either the simian virus 40 (SV40) small t intron or a cyc intron was located downstream from the cat coding region. Analysis of CAT mRNA levels, using a riboprobe spanning the 5' end of the CAT message, revealed that the stimulatory effect of a 5'-noncoding region intron were manifest at both the protein and RNA levels, whereas the inhibitory effects of 3'-noncoding region introns were detectable only at the protein level. The effects of intron position on chimeric gene expression were observed in both primate and rodent cell lines and also when the beta-galactosidase coding region was substituted for that of cat. Therefore, the common placement of an intron in the 3'-noncoding region is not the most beneficial to the expression of cyc chimeric genes. The position of introns within a transcriptional unit is a major factor to be considered when optimizing the efficiency of animal cell expression vectors. PMID- 2514123 TI - Structural organization of the gene encoding apolipoprotein A-II in an amyloidotic strain of senescence-accelerated mouse. AB - An inherited polymorphism occurring in the murine apolipoprotein A-II (ApoA-II) transcript seems to be related to the senile amyloidosis which occurs in accelerated-senescence-prone mice (SAM-P). Such being the case, we have determined the entire nucleotide (nt) sequence of the apoA-II gene. The length of the gene is about 1.3 kb and it is interrupted by three introns and the four exons aligned perfectly with the previously sequenced elements of an apoA-II cDNA. Two-nt substitutions [Pro-5(CCA)----Gln(CAG)] in the SAM-P genome were identified in the third exon, hence, we could use a restriction fragment length polymorphism to detect the apoA-II molecular type. Several possible regulatory signals were identified (i) in the 5'-flanking region, including CAAT and TATA boxes, the viral enhancer-like sequence, and the consensus sequences of estrogen response element, and (ii) in the 3'-flanking region, including sequences conserved in the immunoglobulin enhancer, glucocorticoid and estrogen response elements, and a B1 repetitive sequence. PMID- 2514124 TI - Nucleotide sequence of a regulatory region controlling alginate synthesis in Pseudomonas aeruginosa: characterization of the algR2 gene. AB - Alginate (Alg), an exopolysaccharide with strong gelling properties, is produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa primarily during its infection of the cystic fibrosis (CF) lung. The alg genes are normally not expressed in other environments. The promoter for a critical Alg biosynthetic gene, algD, encoding GDP-mannose dehydrogenase, is activated only under conditions reminiscent of the CF lung (i.e., under high osmolarity), and at least two regulatory genes, algR1 and algR2, have been implicated in this activation process. The physical mapping of a 4.4-kb region harboring algR2 has been accomplished and the complete nucleotide sequence of this fragment, including that of algR2, is presented. The cloning and complementation experiments also demonstrate the presence, on this fragment, of regulatory gene(s) different from algR1 and algR2. The expression of the algR2 gene allows a high level of activation of the algD promoter in Escherichia coli, in the presence of algR1 in a high osmotic environment, suggesting that the AlgR2 and AlgR1 proteins act cooperatively to activate the algD promoter. Hyperexpression of the algR2 gene from the tac promoter also allows the conversion of nonmucoid cells of strain 8822, a spontaneous revertant of the mucoid CF isolate strain 8821, back to mucoidy, but not that of the clinical isolate, strain PAO1. PMID- 2514125 TI - Biosynthesis, catabolism, and biological properties of HPETEs, hydroperoxide derivatives of arachidonic acid. AB - The oxygenation of arachidonic acid by lipoxygenases results in the formation of HPETEs (hydroperoxyeicosatetraenoic acids), the first products of the LOX pathway. These compounds are short lived and are catabolised into various families of more stable compounds of which the HETEs, hepoxilins, lipoxins and leukotrienes have been identified so far. The development of new techniques have helped to identify and understand the structures of various HPETEs and only recently the biological effects of HPETEs and their various catabolites are being unraveled. Although lipoxygenases are ubiquitous, not all tissues possess the same spectrum of lipoxygenase enzymes. Hence different HPETEs can be formed in different tissues. Recent studies have revealed that HPETEs or products derived from them possess a diversity of important biological properties including the regulation of electrolyte flux and eicosanoid and corticosterone syntheses, release of histamine, regulation of oocyte maturation and release of various reproductive hormones. HPETEs appear to be involved in some pathological conditions viz, skin psoriasis, Clarkson's disease, nerve injury and spinal cord ischemia. These novel eicosanoids are associated with the release of insulin as well as renin. Recently HPETEs have been suggested to act as second messengers in the Aplysia sensory neurons and its catabolite, hepoxilin, has been demonstrated to have effects on mammalian hippocampal neurons. The purpose of this review is to provide a brief summary of the formation of the HPETEs and the various families of compounds derived from them as well as the various types of biological activities for these products described so far. PMID- 2514126 TI - Molecular studies on the epidemiology and pathogenicity of Clostridium difficile. PMID- 2514127 TI - Mechanisms of nutritional repletion during total parenteral nutrition. PMID- 2514128 TI - [Cardiovascular effects of beraprost sodium (TRK-100), a prostacyclin analogue in the dog]. AB - Effect of prostacyclin analogue, beraprost sodium (Sodium (+/-)-(1R*, 2R*, 3aS*, 8bS*)-2, 3,3a,8b-tetrahydro-2-hydroxy-1-[(E)-(3S*)-3-hydroxy-4-methyl-1-octen+ ++ 6- ynyl]-1H-cyclopenta-[b]benzofuran-5-butyrate, TRK-100), on the cardiovascular system of the anesthetized dog was investigated. TRK-100 was injected intra arterially and intravenously to study the vasodilating effect of the drug by a magnetic flow meter. Intra-arterial injection of TRK-100 augmented blood flow of vertebral, coronary, renal, supramesenteric, hepatic and femoral artery at a dose range of 0.0003 to 3,000 micrograms/bed. The threshold doses of TRK-100 and PGI2 in the mesenteric artery were 0.003 micrograms and 0.0003 micrograms, respectively, and the same values were obtained in the splenic artery. Those were slightly lower than those of other arteries. Intravenous injection of TRK-100 augmented mesenteric and renal arterial flow to 193 +/- 30% and 118 +/- 4%, respectively. In this system augmentation of mesenteric and renal arterial flow was 179 +/- 19% and 135 +/- 1%, respectively, while vertebral, carotid, and femoral arterial flow decreased, respectively, to 71.4 +/- 2.1%, 80.0 +/- 9.4% and 61.4 +/- 5.6% by TRK-100 and 70.6 +/- 5.6%, 79.5 +/- 6.9% and 67.1 +/- 4.7% by PGI2. Inhibitory effects on heart functions such as cardiac output, left ventricular pressure, LV dP/dt, oxygen consumption, and cardiac work were seen. The effect was similar to PGI2. Coronary vascular resistance, total peripheral resistance and systemic blood pressure were also decreased by TRK-100 and PGI2. PMID- 2514129 TI - Imaging workstations for computer-aided primatology: promises and pitfalls. AB - In this paper, the application of biomedical imaging workstations to primatology will be explained and evaluated. The technological basis, computer hardware and software aspects, and the various uses of several types of workstations will all be discussed. The types of workstations include: (1) Simple - these display-only workstations, which function as electronic light boxes, have applications as terminals to picture archiving and communication (PAC) systems. (2) Diagnostic reporting - image-processing workstations that include the ability to perform straightforward manipulations of gray scale and raw data values will be considered for operations such as histogram equalization (whether adaptive or global), gradient edge finders, contour generation, and region of interest, as well as other related functions. (3) Manipulation systems - three-dimensional modeling and computer graphics with application to radiation therapy treatment planning, and surgical planning and evaluation will be considered. A technology of prime importance in the function of these workstations lies in communications and networking. The hierarchical organization of an electronic computer network and workstation environment with the interrelationship of simple, diagnostic reporting, and manipulation workstations to a coaxial or fiber optic network will be analyzed. PMID- 2514130 TI - Comparison of the bladder response to indole and sodium saccharin ingestion by male rats. AB - To ascertain whether the bladder mass increase and epithelial hyperplasia induced by 5% dietary sodium saccharin (NaS) in short-term experiments with rats are caused by increased urinary excretion of indican associated with this treatment, the responses of the urine and bladder induced by 1.5% indole (Id) ingestion were compared with those induced by 5% NaS and 1.5% Id + 5% NaS. Id and NaS, when fed alone, produced equivalent increases in bladder mass and both compounds induced epithelial hyperplasia, but Id ingestion was associated with much greater urinary indican excretion (5 mg/g diet ingested) than was NaS (0.3 mg/g diet ingested). When Id and NaS were ingested together, the bladder mass increase was additive, but the epithelial hyperplasia was not exacerbated over that observed with each alone, and the urinary indican was equivalent to that produced by Id alone. These findings suggest that a high level of urinary indican excretion is associated with an increase in bladder mass and epithelial hyperplasia (Id treatment) but indicate that the relatively low urinary indican level obtained by NaS feeding alone is unlikely to be responsible for the bladder responses noted with this compound. PMID- 2514131 TI - Inhibition of in vivo genotoxicity by coffee. AB - The possible role of coffee in modulating the in vivo genotoxicity of the well established genotoxic chemicals, mitomycin C, cyclophosphamide, procarbazine and adriamycin, was evaluated. Coffee was administered orally to mice that received the genotoxic chemicals ip. Genotoxicity was assessed in the bone-marrow micronucleus test. Doses of coffee in the range 225 to 1125 mg (dry weight)/kg body weight caused significant reductions in the in vivo genotoxicity of mitomycin C, cyclophosphamide and procarbazine but not adriamycin. The inhibitory effect was significant when the coffee was given about 2 hr before the genotoxin; there was a lesser effect when coffee was given together with the genotoxin but there was no inhibition when coffee was given 2-4 hr after the genotoxin. An experiment with mitomycin C demonstrated that the reduction in genotoxicity was dependent on the coffee dose. The inhibition of genotoxicity by coffee was observed in bone-marrow cells sampled 24, 48 or 68 hr after injecting cyclophosphamide. Freshly brewed coffee extract, standard instant coffee, decaffeinated instant coffee and freeze-dried home-brew coffee all exerted inhibitory effects. PMID- 2514132 TI - Measuring the elderly's need for home care. PMID- 2514133 TI - Health care spending and American competitiveness. PMID- 2514134 TI - Cell type-dependent difference in the distribution and frequency of aphidicolin induced fragile sites: T and B lymphocytes and bone marrow cells. AB - The distribution and frequency of aphidicolin-induced common fragile sites were studied in Epstein-Barr virus-transformed B lymphocytes from eight normal individuals, and in bone marrow cells from six children in remission from malignant blood diseases. PHA-stimulated helper T lymphocytes from the same individuals were also studied. These cells were cultured in MEM, and treated with 0.2 microM aphidicolin for 26 h. The results, together with those of our previous study on cultured skin fibroblasts, indicated that the distribution and frequency of aphidicolin-induced fragile sites are different among different types of cells. PMID- 2514135 TI - Immunobiology of murine T. cruzi infection: the predominance of parasite nonspecific responses and the activation of TCRI T cells. PMID- 2514136 TI - Infrequent utilization of the immunoglobulin heavy chain variable region(s) identical or closely related to that of MOPC315 myeloma protein in the functional V region formation in B-precursor cell lines. AB - We raised anti-VH315 antibodies by immunization of rabbits with VH315 fragments, the variable portions of the immunoglobulin heavy chains of MOPC315 myeloma protein. Inhibition radioimmunoassay using various immunoglobulins as inhibitors showed that the anti-VH315 antibodies specifically reacted with the variable portions of the heavy chains of MOPC315 myeloma protein. When the variable region (VH) gene of the heavy chains was cloned and sequenced from the cells producing the heavy chains detected by the anti-VH315 antibodies, the VH gene was closely related (82% homology at amino acid level) to the VH gene of MOPC315. When we examined the frequency with which the variable region(s) detected by the anti VH315 antibodies were expressed in eight Ignull Abelson virus-transformed cell lines (DJ/DJ or VDJ-/DJ), which were able to generate functional V regions during culture, only one cell line, AT8-1, produced a small number of intracytoplasmic mu-positive cells (VH315+ cells) stained by the anti-VH315 antibodies. The percentage of the total number of the VH315+ cells to the total number of intracytoplasmic mu-positive cells was 0.91% in AT8-1. In the remaining seven cell lines, no VH315+ cells were detected. In the present study we estimate, for the first time at the individual cell level, the frequency of the utilization of the heavy chain variable region(s) identical or closely related to that of MOPC315 in the functional V region formation during early B-cell development. PMID- 2514137 TI - Igh allotype-linked control of immune complex-type hypersensitivity induced by hepatitis B surface antigen. AB - Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) induced an immune complex-type hypersensitivity which developed at 5-6 hr after the challenge and could be transferred by anti-HBs antisera, in addition to the delayed-type hypersensitivity in B10.BR mice. The pre-S region of HBsAg influenced this induction because the pre-S-depleted HBsAg or recombinant major S protein could not stimulate this 5-hr ear swelling. The male B10.BR mice responded better than the female ones, probably due to the inhibition by female hormone. Furthermore, HBsAg could also induce an early-occurring hypersensitivity which appeared within 1 hr of the antigen challenge. However, B10.BR mice did not exhibit this hypersensitivity; B6 mice expressed all three types of hypersensitivity (1 hr, 5 hr and 24 hr) and BALB/c mice showed only 1-hr and 24-hr responses. The expression of the immune complex-type seems to be determined by the Ighb gene or gene(s) closely associated to it. Mice bearing the Igh-1b allotype could be stimulated by HBsAg to induce the immune-complex type hypersensitivity. Moreover, it was the high specific binding not the titre of anti-HBs antibodies that influenced the exhibition of immune complex-type hypersensitivity. PMID- 2514138 TI - Divalent hapten-induced intestinal anaphylaxis in the mouse: uptake and characterization of a bystander protein. AB - We examined the mucosal barrier function during anaphylaxis induced by the hapten N,N'-di-2,4,dinitrophenyl-lysine (di-DNP-lysine) in BDF1 female mice immunized with dinitrophenylated Ascaris suum extract. Immunized mice were gavaged with 10 mg or 50 mg of ovalbumin (OVA) with or without N,N'-di-2,4,-DNP-lysine (di-DNP lysine). Animals that received di-DNP-lysine underwent anaphylaxis and were observed to have significantly greater serum concentrations of immunoreactive OVA (iOVA) than control mice. The severity of anaphylaxis, which varied with the dose of di-DNP-lysine administered, influenced the uptake of OVA; greater amounts of iOVA were detected in serum of mice undergoing more severe anaphylaxis. On gel permeation of serum from both groups of mice, immunoreactive OVA was found to have a molecular size similar to native OVA. Di-DNP-lysine is a synthetic hapten that reliably induced anaphylaxis in sensitized animals challenged by gavage. Anaphylaxis resulted in the uptake into the circulation of greater quantities of an unrelated protein antigen present in the intestinal lumen. The protein antigen that was taken up into the circulation appeared to be intact and thus may have an influence on the development of the immune response, or lack thereof, to this bystander antigen. PMID- 2514139 TI - Class II MHC antigens in the rat digestive system. Normal distribution and induced expression after interferon-gamma treatment in vivo. AB - The normal and interferon-gamma induced expression of class II MHC antigens was investigated immunohistologically in the digestive system of LEW rats. In the normal state class II molecules were present in interstitial dendritic cells, B lymphocytes and epithelial cells. Epithelial class II expression was restricted to enterocytes in certain portions of the small intestine and to some duct epithelia in salivary glands. After continuous intravenous infusion of interferon gamma (IFN-gamma) for 3 days, class II MHC antigens were induced in large vessel endothelium and in the surface epithelia of the tongue, oesophagus and proventricle. In the gastric glands class II molecules appeared in mucous neck cells and in parietal cells, while adjacent mucous surface cells and chief cells did not acquire class II reactivity. All enterocytes, including the previously negative colonic epithelium, were induced to express class II antigens. In the salivary glands class II antigens appeared in all duct epithelia. Serous acinar cells were induced in the parotids, but in the submandibular glands and in the pancreas the serous gland epithelium stayed negative. Our study thus shows that the effects of IFN-gamma on class II MHC antigen expression in vivo depend on the differentiation pathway of the individual cell. The normal distribution in rats suggest that class II MHC antigens may play a role in peptide transport across specialized epithelia. It remains to be determined whether such a function is enhanced after IFN treatment. PMID- 2514140 TI - Release of cytokines during generation of lymphokine-activated killer (LAK) cells by IL-2. AB - Supernatants of IL-2-activated mononuclear cells (MNC) that displayed an optimal lymphokine-activated killer (LAK) cell activity at 48-72 hr in culture were found to contain increased levels of tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha), interleukin-1 alpha (IL-1 alpha) and interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) when compared with supernatants from mononuclear cells cultured in the absence of IL-2. The concentration of TNF alpha and IL-1 alpha produced by MNC at 24 hr was either increased or maintained by extending the cultures to 96 hr. In contrast, TNF beta was only detected at very low levels after 72-96 hr culture, irrespective of whether IL-2 was present or absent. Optimal concentrations of IL-2 needed to induce maximum release of TNF alpha, IL-1 alpha and IFN-gamma by MNC varied among different individuals. Enriched populations of lymphocytes secreted higher levels of all measured cytokines upon activation with IL-2 in contrast to untreated cells. Supernatants from purified monocyte preparations contained high concentrations of TNF alpha and IL-1 alpha regardless of the presence of IL-2 in the cell cultures. This work suggests that in addition to the generation of LAK cell activity, by promoting the release of other cytokines with potential anti tumoricidal activity, IL-2 may be amplifying cell-mediated cytotoxicity, which is associated with protection against neoplastic disease. PMID- 2514141 TI - Effect of recombinant tumour necrosis factor on acute infection in mice with Toxoplasma gondii or Trypanosoma cruzi. AB - Recombinant tumor necrosis factor (rTNF) has been shown to protect mice against lethal bacterial infections. We previously reported that in in vitro experiments with mouse peritoneal macrophages, rTNF inhibited intracellular multiplication of Trypanosoma cruzi but not of Toxoplasma gondii. These disparate results led us to study the effect of rTNF on the in vivo infection with these parasites. Daily administration of 0.5 and 5.0 micrograms rTNF resulted in a dose-dependent, significantly decreased time to death (p less than 0.05) in mice infected with lethal doses of T. cruzi. The same effect was found in mice infected with T. gondii and given a daily dose of 5.0 micrograms rTNF. Lower doses of rTNF did not significantly affect time to death of mice infected with either parasite. PMID- 2514142 TI - A synthetic decapeptide analogue of human seminal plasma inhibin exhibiting specific suppression of follicle stimulating hormone release in rats. AB - Synthesis and biological profile of a decapeptide analogue, [Tyr85, Cys(Acm)87]85 94 of human seminal plasma inhibin (HSPI) are described. The peptide suppressed the circulatory levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) in adult male rats. No change in the levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) and prolactin (Prl) was observed. Whereas the peptide suppressed the release of both FSH and LH in vitro. This decapeptide is the smallest peptide reported so far to have FSH suppressing activity. PMID- 2514143 TI - Pharmacological and immunological evaluation of scorpion (Heterometrus bengalensis) venom antiserum. AB - An antiserum was prepared for the first time against the venom of a common scorpion, H. bengalensis, by hyperimmunization of rabbit. This antiserum showed positive precipitin bands in immunogeldiffusion and immunoelectrophoresis. The serum showed a high titre value tested by indirect haemagglutination test. The antiserum developed in rabbit protected mice against the lethal action of the venom. Smooth muscle contractile response of venom on guinea pig ileum, and rat uterus was antagonized by the antiserum. This antiserum effectively antagonized the venom induced neuromuscular paralysis tested on rat phrenic nerve diaphragm and chick biventer cervices. Antiserum also protected the venom-induced cardiac arrest tested on isolated guineapig heart and auricle preparations. PMID- 2514144 TI - Effect of raw winged bean [Psophocarpus tetragonolobus (L.) DC] tuber lectin on gastrointestinal tract of growing rats. AB - The fraction containing high hemagglutinating activity was prepared from raw winged bean tubers and orally administered to growing rats. The food intake and body weights of these rats decreased as the level of lectin increased and significant lectin activity was detected in the faeces extracted from these rats which is anti-genically similar to the native lectin preparation. Microscopic examination has revealed morphological changes in the intestinal epithelial cells. The binding action of the lectin to the mucosal epithelia of the gastrointestinal tract is indicative of the deleterious effects caused by the winged bean tuber lectin. PMID- 2514145 TI - Does inhibin have intrinsic prolactin suppressing activity? AB - Evidence to demonstrate suppressive effect of inhibin on prolactin has been presented. The inhibin preparations derived from human testicular tissue, human seminal plasma and porcine follicular fluid were tested and all the three preparations were found to exhibit prolactin suppressing activity. PMID- 2514146 TI - Effects of prostatic inhibin and thyroid releasing hormone on lipid peroxidation in rat prostate. AB - Effects of prostatic inhibin and thyroid releasing hormone (TRH) on lipid peroxidation in rat prostate was studied in an in vitro system. It was found that both inhibited the lipid peroxidase activity thus having a protective role in the prostate. PMID- 2514147 TI - Non-invasive tracking of peripheral ventilatory response to carbon dioxide. AB - We propose a new method for quantifying the ventilatory sensitivity of the peripheral chemoreceptors to changes in CO2 through analysis of the natural breath-to-breath variations in ventilation (y) and alveolar PCO2 (x). This technique is truly non-invasive in that the need for administering CO2-enriched mixtures is circumvented, and peripheral chemosensitivity is assessed while the respiratory control system operates in its normal eucapnic state, unperturbed by external interventions. The method is based on solution of the inverse problem relating the cross-correlation between alveolar PCO2 and ventilation changes, and the autocorrelation of changes in alveolar PCO2. Tests are performed using simulated data generated by a closed-loop respiratory control model. The impulse response of the controller and the convective delay between lungs and chemoreceptors are estimated from the data. Subsequently, the best exponential fit to the estimated impulse response yields values for the effective controller gain (G) and the associated time constant of the response. The estimates of G contain a small contribution from the control chemoreflex gain; however, the relation between changes in G and changes in peripheral gain remains unaltered. The effects of other details in the computation procedure, such as length of data sequence, maximum number of correlation lags and starting lag number, are also investigated. PMID- 2514148 TI - Intrinsic differences in the transplantability and outgrowth potential of DMBA induced rat mammary tumors. AB - Only a small proportion of DMBA-induced rat mammary tumors are transplantable in cleared (gland-free) mammary fat pads. To enhance their transplantability, several host factors were modified: age, parity, hormone levels, and tissue integrity of the fat pad. Our 2 important findings were that (1) there were individual differences between the tumors in their transplantability and potential to proliferate normal and hyperplastic outgrowths, and (2) these differences were determined by their inherent potential and not by their environment. These intrinsic differences among the tumors are consistent with the concept that properties of a given type of tumor are independently variable. PMID- 2514149 TI - Influence of cyclosporin A and alpha-difluoromethylornithine, an inhibitor of polyamine biosynthesis, on two rodent T-cell cancers in vivo. AB - We have examined the influence of cyclosporin A (CsA), administered together with the polyamine antimetabolite, alpha-difluoromethylornithine (DFMO), on growth of the Roser acute T-cell leukaemia in PVG rats and on growth of the EL4 lymphoma in C57BL/6 mice. CsA or DFMO alone, administered from the time of tumour injection, markedly reduced numbers of circulating lymphoblasts in leukaemic rats, although survival was prolonged only in those animals given DFMO. Drug combination further reduced blood-borne tumour cells, but had no additional effects on tumour growth within organs or on host survival, compared to that achieved with DFMO treatment alone. Neither CsA nor DFMO, administered from the time of tumour-cell injection, nor both drugs in combination, affected peritoneal growth of the EL4 lymphoma or organ infiltration. Host survival was prolonged by DFMO. As anticipated, DFMO inhibited polyamine synthesis in vivo, but the observed anti-tumour effect of CsA was not accompanied by an alteration in polyamine biosynthesis. By reducing polyamine synthesis, however, DFMO may enhance the vulnerability of those malignant T cells which are susceptible to the as yet unexplained selective inhibitory action of CsA in vivo. PMID- 2514150 TI - Expression of the ras-related rap genes in human tumors. AB - The expression of the recently described rap genes, closely related in the effector region to the ras proto-oncogenes, was examined by Northern blot analysis in 41 primary human tumors. The structural and in vitro biological properties of the rap gene products suggest their possible antagonistic action in the same effector pathway as the ras proteins. In order to determine whether a deregulation in the rap transcription levels could be involved per se in the multistep carcinogenic process, we chose to analyze tumors for which the ras mutation rate was previously reported to be extremely rare or unknown, i.e., non Hodgkin's lymphomas, certain types of carcinoma, sarcomas, germinal neoplasms of the testes and various tumors of the nervous system. A severe decrease in the expression of the rap1A gene was shown in the fibrosarcomas and the adenocarcinoma of the salivary gland studied, as compared to their normal counterparts, whereas no rap2 expression was found in the polyadenylated RNA of sarcoma samples. PMID- 2514151 TI - Ventilatory response kinetics and breathing pattern during exercise at different chemoreceptive drives. AB - For studying the effects of different chemoreceptive drives on the ventilatory responses to muscular work, experiments were carried out with 16 healthy men. They accomplished a 5-min exercise while breathing with different gas mixtures or after hyperventilation. As was shown, the rapid component of the exercise hyperpnea increased with intensifying the hypercapnic and/or hypoxic stimuli and was reduced or abolished with attenuation of these stimuli. At this, hypoxic drive exerted primary influence on the response kinetics. In the steady-state exercise effects of the chemoreceptive stimuli were modulated by biomechanical factors, which leads to a energetically optimum breathing pattern being formed. PMID- 2514152 TI - Arterial blood gases, acid-base balance, and lactate and gas exchange variables during hypoxic exercise. AB - To determine the effect of hypoxia on lactate threshold (LT), onset of blood lactate accumulation (OBLA), and gas exchange threshold (GET), the lactate level together with VO2, VCO2, VE, and acid-base status in arterial blood from 12 female distance runners performing a progressive incremental treadmill test under the condition of hypoxic gas inhalation (HC: FIO2 is 16.0% in N2) compared with normoxic conditions (NC: FIO2 is 20.9%; i.e., air) were examined. During exercise, HC shifted LT, GET, and OBLA to a lower VO2 by 12.5%, 12.9%, and 9.3%, respectively. The GET during hypoxic exercise was well correlated with LT (GET = 0.973LT + 0.04; expressed in VO2 l.min-1). The close reciprocal changes in arterial blood lactate and bicarbonate (HCO3-) were observed during hypoxic as well as normoxic exercise. These findings provide evidence for the cause and effect relationship between LT and GET, even in hypoxic exercise. During submaximal exercise below the LT, PaCO2 and HCO3- slightly increased both in NC and HC with pH remaining unchanged. However, during exercise above the LT, the PaCO2, HCO3-, and pH all decreased with pH decreasing more markedly during hypoxia. In conclusion, this study demonstrated a clear increase in arterial lactate during hypoxic exercise above the LT. Both the LT and GET are shifted to a lower work rate by hypoxia in the same manner with the correlation between them remaining high, supporting the cause and effect relationship of these two parameters. PMID- 2514153 TI - Effect of clonidine early in life on brain morphofunctional deficits induced by neonatal malnutrition in the rat. AB - A great body of evidence indicates that malnutrition early in life induces central noradrenergic hyperactivity (CNH). On the other hand, it is known that noradrenaline (NA) is an important regulator of the regressive processes occurring during synaptogenesis such as cell death, axonal pruning and synaptic elimination. This leads to the hypothesis that some of the morphofunctional modifications induced by malnutrition on the brain could be due, at least in part, to an increase of NA activity during the period of accelerated brain growth. This study evaluates whether early reduction of CNH by the alpha-2 presynaptic adrenoreceptor agonist clonidine, prevents long-term morphofunctional deficits induced by protein-energy malnutrition in the rat. Results of experiments performed on 45 day-old malnourished animals that received clonidine during the suckling period, show that the pharmacological treatment prevented: (i) deficits in both NA levels and NA release in the visual cortex; (ii) deficit in brain weight but not in body weight; and (iii) reduction of the normal brain interhemispheric asymmetry of visual cortical evoked potentials. It is suggested that administration of clonidine early in life prevents brain morphofunctional deficits by malnutrition, by restoring the normal tropic role of NA during synaptogenesis. PMID- 2514154 TI - A parieto-occipital generator for P300: evidence from human intracranial recordings. AB - Auditory event-related potentials (ERPs) were recorded simultaneously from the scalp and from bilateral intracranial sites within the frontal and temporal lobes, as well as from intracortical sites in the parieto-occipital region in a subject undergoing evaluation for surgical treatment of medically intractable epilepsy. Scalp ERP morphology was entirely normal. Large amplitude ERPs could be recorded from all intracranial sites. Furthermore, polarity inversions of ERP components with latencies similar to that of the scalp P300 were recorded in both temporal lobes and from the parieto-occipital region. These findings are consistent with suggestions that multiple intracranial generators, including extratemporal ones, give rise to the scalp-recorded P300. These data also provide a basis for a conceptual link between hypotheses concerning the neural substrate of attention and the psychological correlates of the P300. PMID- 2514155 TI - [A 73-year-old patient with varying, ulcerating skin necroses of the distal extremities]. PMID- 2514157 TI - Serial allometric factor extrapolation: compartmental and physiological pharmacokinetic approaches. AB - Interspecies dose-response equivalence is most frequently estimated as the product of a reference species dose and a single scaling ratio based on a physiological parameter such as body weight, body surface area, maximum lifespan potential, DNA repair rate, etc. This approach may suffice for certain narrowly defined applications but is likely to be inadequate or inappropriate for many others. A biologically plausible rationale for these inadequacies and for their resolution can be demonstrated using a structured approach to dose scaling, termed serial allometric factor extrapolation (SAFE). The SAFE procedure is unique in that variations in chemical-specific toxic interaction mechanisms can be incorporated into the scaling process. The compartmental and physiological pharmacokinetic (PPK) bases for the procedure are demonstrated using published data on acute intravenous toxicity of chemotherapeutic agents in animals and humans. The interrelationships of SAFE equations, PPK, and regression allometry of dose response are discussed. PMID- 2514156 TI - Predicting the kinetics of chelating agents in man from animal data. AB - Published data were collected on clearance of 82Br, 24Na, inulin, and the ligands CaNa2-EDTA and CaNa3-DTPA from plasma of rats, dogs, and adult men. Data were restructured to a common base and reanalyzed using a two-compartment open-system kinetic model with an outlet from plasma to urinary excretion or from interstitial fluid to deposition in tissues. This was used to obtain transfer rates, distribution volumes, renal clearance, tracer content of interstitial fluid, and cumulative urinary excretion. The validity of the approach was demonstrated by good agreement of the calculated distribution volumes and renal clearances of the selected tracers with published values obtained by other analytical methods. The values of the parameters of the plasma curves and the transfer rates for EDTA and DTPA in the animals were combined with physiological data to evaluate the kinetic parameters of those substances in man. The human kinetic parameters of the ligands predicted from rat or dog data differed, on the average, from the values calculated from human data by +/- 13 and +/- 38%, respectively. The effective concentration of EDTA or DTPA in body fluids from time of injection to complete excretion and the mean concentration for the first 360 min after injection was calculated to be about four times greater in man than in rats and 3.5 times greater than in dogs for equimolar amounts injected. Based on the pharmacokinetics of DTPA, chelation therapy immediately after an actinide accident involving inhalation or extensive skin damage will be more efficient and more effective if a fraction of the standard clinical ZnNa3-DTPA dosage is administered every few hours instead of as a single daily injection. PMID- 2514158 TI - Retention patterns for inhaled particles in the lung: comparisons between laboratory animals and humans for chronic exposures. AB - In the absence of adequate data exclusively from studies of inhaled particles in people, the results of inhalation studies using laboratory animals are necessary to estimate particle retention in exposed people. To make accurate projections from animal studies and the limited human data, it is necessary to consider species similarities and differences in lung retention and accumulation patterns for inhaled materials. This paper reviews species similarities and differences in pulmonary retention and clearance for inhaled particles, with emphasis on animal species most commonly used in inhalation toxicology research (rats, guinea pigs, dogs, and nonhuman primates). Simulation models for these four species and for humans were used to compare projected lung burdens which would be accumulated during chronic inhalation exposures. These simulation models project an eightfold difference among these species in the lung concentration of particles per gram of lung after a 2-y chronic inhalation exposure to the same aerosol for 8 h d-1, 5 d wk-1. The largest lung accumulation would occur in guinea pigs, the smallest in rats. To reach the same target lung concentration of particles in the lungs of both animals would therefore require about an eightfold difference in air concentration of the exposure material. These comparisons are useful for selecting appropriate laboratory animal species to study as surrogates for humans, for setting aerosol concentrations to use in inhalation studies, and for making approximations of lung burdens that would result from defined exposure scenarios. PMID- 2514159 TI - Influenza virus changes cell-surface glycoproteins including major histocompatibility complex determinants on lymphocytes. AB - The effect of influenza virus infection on the expression of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) antigens was investigated. Infection with influenza virus resulted in an increase of the binding of anti-MHC class I and class II antibodies to resting T cells. The binding of anti-MHC class II antibodies to activated T cells was increased approximately threefold. The binding of anti-MHC class I and class II antibodies to Epstein-Barr virus transformed B cells appeared unaffected after influenza virus infection. Recombinant human interferon-alpha and/or -gamma added to T cells did not enhance the binding of anti-MHC antibodies. Biochemical analysis revealed no increase in the amount of class I and class II antigens as a consequence of viral infection, but a marked decrease in sialic acid content was found, most probably caused by the viral neuraminidase. Pulse-chase experiments suggest that the viral neuraminidase can catalyze the removal of sialic acids both en route to and at the cell surface. The absence of sialic acid residues can explain the increased binding of anti-MHC antibodies, because neuraminidase (clostridium perfringens) treatment of T and Epstein-Barr virus-transformed B cells resulted in a shift in both isoelectric point and antibody binding similar to that observed after influenza virus infection. PMID- 2514160 TI - Epidemic pneumonia in university students. AB - Longitudinal surveillance of pneumonia in a university student health service was conducted from 1965-1971 and 1984-1987. Of 104 pneumonia cases documented by chest x-ray, only six were presumed to have bacterial etiology; the remaining 98 were characteristic of atypical pneumonia syndrome. Mycoplasma pneumoniae was the etiology in 51% of the pneumonias in the 1960s and 13% in 1984-1987. Pneumonia incidence was highest in the fall semester in seven of 11 years studied. Annual incidence followed a three- to four-year periodicity. Both of these observations mirror the epidemiology of M. pneumoniae in the world population. Symptoms of cough, headache, malaise, and absence of the physical finding of wheezing were seen more consistently in M. pneumoniae pneumonia than in other atypical pneumonias; other clinical features varied among epidemics. Rapid cold agglutinin tests were positive in 27% of our clinically diagnosed pneumonias and in 36% of those with documented mycoplasmal infections. This study appears to provide a basis for predicting future epidemics of atypical pneumonia in student populations. PMID- 2514161 TI - No evidence of HTLV-1 infection in Japanese multiple sclerosis patients in polymerase chain reaction. AB - To test possible association of human T cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) with multiple sclerosis (MS), polymerase chain reaction was applied to detect HTLV-1 DNA integrated into peripheral blood mononuclear cell DNA. Nine Japanese MS patients all gave a negative result, indicating no HTLV-1 infection in these MS patients. PMID- 2514162 TI - Mutagenicity arising from boiled rice on treatment with nitrous acid. AB - When an aqueous homogenate of boiled rice was treated with nitrous acid at pH 3, direct-acting mutagens were formed. The presence of the mutagens was demonstrated by isolating the mutagenic fractions through blue-rayon adsorption, a method used to extract polycyclic compounds, and subsequent high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The mutagens were active in Salmonella typhimurium TA100 and TA98 without metabolic activation. Several different mutagens were formed, as judged from the HPLC profile. PMID- 2514163 TI - Mass screening for breast cancer: comparison of the clinical stages and prognosis of breast cancer detected by mass screening and in out-patient clinics. AB - To establish the criteria for assessing the life-prolonging effect of mass screening for breast cancer, clinical stage and prognosis of breast cancer detected by mass screening in 11 regions of Japan were compared with those for matched patients in out-patient clinics. A total of 728 patients detected by mass screening and 1,450 found in the out-patient clinics were reviewed. The stage of the disease was Tis or I in 40.9% of the patients detected by mass screening, and 28.7% of those found in the out-patient clinics. In contrast, stage III was found in 9.3% and 14.6%, respectively, indicating that early stages were significantly more common in the patients detected by mass screening. The overall survival curve for the patients detected by mass screening was compared with that for those found in the out-patient clinics. The 5-year survival rate was significantly higher in the patients detected by mass screening (91.7% vs. 85.6%; P less than 0.01), while the 10-year survival rate was slightly higher in the same group of patients, but the difference from the other group was not significant (80.5% vs. 78.1%). Women who had conducted breast self-examination (BSE) showed a higher survival rate than those who had not conducted BSE. PMID- 2514164 TI - Synergism between sodium chloride and sodium taurocholate and development of pepsinogen-altered pyloric glands: relevance to a medium-term bioassay system for gastric carcinogens and promoters in rats. AB - In an approach to early detection of gastric carcinogens and promoters in an in vivo test system, promotion by sodium chloride (NaCl) and the synergistic effects of NaCl and sodium taurocholate (Na-TC) on development of pepsinogen-altered pyloric glands (PAPG) in rat glandular stomach after initiation with N-methyl-N' nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine (MNNG) were investigated. A total of 205 male WKY/NCrj rats were divided into 8 groups. Group 1 was given a single dose of MNNG of 160 mg/kg body weight by gastric intubation, and starting 2 weeks later basal diet containing Na-TC for 18 weeks. In addition, 1 ml doses of saturated NaCl solution were given by gastric intubation at weeks 4, 6, 8 and 10. Similarly, group 2 was treated with MNNG and Na-TC, while group 3 animals received MNNG and NaCl. Group 4 was given MNNG alone. Groups 5-8 served as equivalent controls without MNNG initiation. The results revealed significantly enhanced induction of immunohistochemically defined PAPG in the Na-TC + NaCl (P less than 0.001), Na-TC (P less than 0.01) and NaCl (P less than 0.01) treated animals initiated with MNNG. Sodium chloride demonstrated a clear synergistic effect with Na-TC in promoting the development of PAPG, suggesting possible advantage for its use in medium-term in vivo assays for detection of gastric carcinogens and promoters. PMID- 2514165 TI - Strain differences in susceptibility to 2-acetylaminofluorene and phenobarbital promotion of hepatocarcinogenesis: immunohistochemical analysis of cytochrome P 450 isozyme induction by 2-acetylaminofluorene and phenobarbital. AB - Strain differences in the expression of cytochrome P-450 isoenzymes (P-450s) during enhancement of hepatocarcinogenesis by 2-acetylaminofluorene (2-AAF) and phenobarbital (PB) were investigated immunohistochemically using monoclonal antibodies against phenobarbital (PB) (APF3) or 3-methylcholanthrene (3-MC) (APH8) inducible P-450s. LEW, SD, WBN, F344, SHR, NAR, Wistar and ODS rats were studied, the first five strains proving to be less susceptible to 2-AAF induction of APH8 while responding strongly to the promoting influence of this chemical, as reported previously. The other three strains, NAR, Wistar and ODS, demonstrated greater inducibility, this correlating with an observed resistance to promotion by 2-AAF. PB administration was not associated with any strain difference in APF3 cytochrome P-450 inducibility except in the ODS rat, in which its effects were minimal. The results provide direct evidence that differential expression of cytochrome P-450 species plays a major role in determining responsiveness to hepatocarcinogenesis-promoting agents such as 2-AAF. PMID- 2514166 TI - Nucleolar organizer regions in hepatocarcinogenesis induced by N-2 fluorenylacetamide in rats: comparison with bromodeoxyuridine immunohistochemistry. AB - The number of silver-stained nucleolar proteins (AgNOR) was counted in preneoplastic and neoplastic rat liver lesions induced by N-2-fluorenylacetamide (FAA) and was compared with that of bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU)-incorporating cells detected immunohistochemically using monoclonal antibody against BrdU. Male ACI/N rats were given diet containing 200 ppm FAA for 12, 16 or 20 weeks to induce hepatocellular foci and tumors. The mean numbers of AgNOR stained by a one-step silver colloid method and BrdU-labeling indices in various liver cell lesions were as follows: nontreated liver (n = 20), 1.20 and 0.08; nonlesional areas (n = 20), 1.33 and 0.13; altered liver cell foci (n = 80), 2.04 and 4.05 [eosinophilic cell type (n = 20), 1.78 and 1.82; clear cell type (n = 20), 1.45 and 1.77; basophilic cell type (n = 20), 1.99 and 4.58; hyperbasophilic cell type (n = 20), 2.94 and 8.02]; neoplastic nodules (n = 10), 3.11 and 2.99; hepatocellular carcinomas (n = 10), 7.22 and 8.29. Thus, the mean number of AgNOR and the value of BrdU-labeling index were well correlated and both values showed a stepwise increase from normal liver cells to liver cell carcinoma, although some scatter was present. These data suggest that mean number of AgNOR may reflect the cellular kinetics in rat hepatocarcinogenesis, and the one-step silver colloid method for demonstration of AgNOR may therefore be a simple and useful staining to examine the proliferative nature of cells. PMID- 2514167 TI - Inductions of ornithine decarboxylase and replicative DNA synthesis but not DNA single strand scission or unscheduled DNA synthesis in the pyloric mucosa of rat stomach by catechol. AB - The possible tumor-promoting and genotoxic activities of catechol were examined. Administration of catechol by gastric intubation at doses of 10 to 90 mg/kg body weight to male F344 rats induced up to 19-fold increase in ornithine decarboxylase activity with a maximum after 8 h and up to 8-fold increase in replicative DNA synthesis with a maximum after 24 h in the pyloric mucosa of the stomach. These results suggest that catechol has tumor-promoting activity in the pyloric mucosa of rat stomach. However, its administration at doses of 37.5 to 90 mg/kg body weight did not induce DNA single strand scission in the pyloric mucosa as determined by the alkaline elution method after 2 and 6 h or unscheduled DNA synthesis examined after 2 and 12 h. PMID- 2514168 TI - Life-span studies on spontaneous tumor development in the medaka (Oryzias latipes). AB - A total of 961 medaka, separated chronologically from the first to the fifth year of life, were examined for spontaneous tumor development. While no liver tumors were found in either male or female medaka under the age of 1 year and the incidence in 2-year-old fish was relatively low (males 1.9% and females 1.7%), they became more common with advancing age. The incidence was higher in females than in males from 3 to 5 years of age, reaching 7.1% in 5-year-old female stock. These liver tumors included a total of 12 adenomas and 9 hepatocellular carcinomas. The hepatocellular carcinomas were histologically well differentiated and were all observed in female medaka. Spontaneous tumors occurring in organs other than the liver were rare and sporadic. Four squamous cell carcinomas, 5 melanomas and 4 lymphosarcomas were observed with no sexual or pronounced age bias being evident. The squamous cell carcinomas developed in the surface epithelium with local invasion into the dermis. Melanomas occurred in the abdominal cavity and demonstrated systemic invasion into various parts of the body. Three out of the 4 lymphosarcomas arose from the inner part of the operculum suggesting that these tumors were of thymic origin. They also showed extensive invasion. The data indicate a particular susceptibility of older female medaka to liver but not other tumor development. PMID- 2514169 TI - Antibodies against p40tax gene product of human T-lymphotropic virus type-I (HTLV I) under various conditions of HTLV-I infection. AB - We investigated antibodies against pX gene product, p40tax, by ELISA using recombinant p40tax protein in HTLV-I seropositive carriers as well as patients with adult T cell leukemia (ATL) and HTLV-I-associated myelopathy (HAM). Seventy (49.0%) out of 143 HTLV-I healthy carriers were found to be positive for antibody against p40tax antigen and the follow-up samples at two-year intervals revealed constant reactivity by ELISA in each carrier. The onset of antibody production was delayed 4 to 12 weeks as compared with anti-HTLV-I in primary infection cases. The anti-p40tax-positive rate (90%) in HAM patients was significantly higher than that of healthy carriers, acute and chronic ATL patients and their family members. Furthermore, HAM patients and a few healthy carriers showed high reactivities by ELISA. Children from mothers with anti-p40tax showed a higher anti-HTLV-I-positive rate than that of children from mothers without anti-p40tax (54.5% versus 12.5%). Two men without anti-p40tax and one female with low anti p40tax developed ATL during follow-up studies. These results suggest that HTLV-I carriers could be divided into 2 or 3 sub-populations according to antibody response to p40tax. A smaller population with anti-p40tax, especially a high antibody reactivity, could have a high risk of developing HAM and of transmission from mother to child. In addition, ATL may occur in a population with low or absent anti-p40tax. PMID- 2514170 TI - Expression of DNA polymerase alpha and Leu3a molecules in growing and saturated cultures of human leukemic cells: phenotype analysis of proliferative cells by flow cytometry. AB - A flow cytometric method to analyze phenotypes of proliferative cells was developed using human leukemic cell line MOLT 4. A nuclear protein, DNA polymerase alpha (pol alpha), was selected as a marker for proliferative cells, and Leu3a molecule as a cell-surface antigen phenotype marker of the cells. The procedure involved the simultaneous use of fluorescein-conjugated anti-pol alpha antibody, developed by us, and commercially available phycoerythrin-conjugated anti-Leu3a antibody. The optimal fixative for both proteins was phosphate buffered 2% paraformaldehyde. The pol alpha-positive population in logarythmically growing MOLT 4 cells was estimated, by flow cytometry, to be ca. 95%. A sharp flow cytometry histogram with a strong pol alpha-linked fluorescence was observed. On the other hand, the pol alpha-positive population in the saturated culture was ca. 70%, with weaker pol alpha-linked fluorescence. Thus, the population of pol alpha-positive cells and the amount of pol alpha in cells was dependent on the cell density of the culture. In contrast, ca. 90% Leu3a positive populations with similar flow cytometry histograms were seen in either growing or saturated states, suggesting that expression of Leu3a was independent of cell density. The flow cytometric method using fluorescein isothiocyanate conjugated anti-pol alpha antibody is useful for detecting proliferative fractions of free tumor cells, such as leukemic cells. Furthermore, analysis of the phenotype of the proliferative or non-proliferative cells became easier by simultaneous labeling with antibodies against pol alpha and phenotype-specific proteins. PMID- 2514171 TI - Synergy of Nocardia rubra cell wall skeleton and interleukin 2 in the in vivo induction of murine lymphokine-activated killer cell activity. AB - Combination of an ip injection of Nocardia rubra cell wall skeleton (N-CWS) and 3 daily sc injections of human recombinant interleukin 2 (rIL 2) into C3H/HeN mice resulted not only in a significant increase in the number of peritoneal cells (PC) but also in a potent induction of their lymphokine-activated killer (LAK) activity, compared with results obtained with N-CWS or rIL 2 alone. The augmented LAK activity of PC was mediated by nonadherent, nonphagocytic, Thy-1.2+(-)- and asialo GM1+ cells. Nonadherent PC induced by an ip injection of N-CWS bound more 125I-labeled rIL 2 than did normal, nonadherent PC, and generated high LAK activity when cultured overnight with rIL 2. In contrast, normal, nonadherent PC responded only weakly to the overnight stimulation with rIL 2. The phenotype of N CWS-induced PC with an elevated IL 2 responsiveness was Thy-1.2+(-)-, Lyt-1.1-, Lyt-2.1- and asialo GM1+, suggesting that the N-CWS-stimulated LAK precursors were derived mainly from the NK cell lineage. However, mature T cells may also be involved in this mechanism, because N-CWS failed to augment the IL 2 responsiveness of nonadherent PC in BALB/c nu/nu mice. Treatment of C57BL/6N mice bearing solid Lewis lung carcinoma (3LL) tumors with an intratumoral injection of N-CWS followed by 6 daily sc injections of rIL 2 resulted in the apparent suppression of tumor growth, while N-CWS or rIL 2 alone produced no such suppression. These results suggest that N-CWS augments the antitumor effect of rIL 2 by accumulating LAK precursors and elevating their responsiveness to rIL 2 at the injection site. PMID- 2514172 TI - Active specific chemoimmunotherapy of lymph-node metastasis from a poorly immunogenic murine fibrosarcoma. AB - The fibrosarcoma MCA-SP, which was recently induced with methylcholanthrene (MCA) in C3H/HeJ mice, displays poor immunogenicity in in vivo prophylaxis. A cell variant MCA-SPN1, which bears a tumor-specific transplantation antigen (TSTA) cross-reactive with the parental line MCA-SP, was selected because of its proclivity for axillary lymph-node metastases. Although these lymph-node metastases were resistant to sinecomitant (post-excisional) immunity, they were susceptible to combined active and passive specific chemoimmunotherapy, using tumor-specific, 1-butanol-extracted, preparative isoelectric focusing-purified, TSTA (1 microgram weekly sc injections), cyclophosphamide (CY, a single intraperitoneal 20 mg/kg dose), and adoptive transfer of immune splenic T lymphocytes, which had been re-stimulated in vitro with extracted TSTA and interleukin-2. This triple regimen both reduced the incidence of spontaneous lymph-node metastases, and prolonged the survival of tumor-bearing, as well as tumor-resected hosts. The results from local adoptive transfer assay using T lymphocyte subpopulations of spleen and lymph nodes in these treated hosts suggested that Lyt 2+ cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CTL) mediated in vivo tumor neutralization. Thus TSTA/CY/CTL therapy activates tumoricidal host responses effective against the poorly immunogenic MCA-SP tumor and its lymph-node metastases. PMID- 2514173 TI - A novel multidrug resistance in cultured leukemia and lymphoma cells detected by a monoclonal antibody to 85-kDa protein, MRK20. AB - A monoclonal antibody, MRK20, in F(ab')2 form [MRK20-F(ab')2], which reacts with 85-kDa membrane protein in a doxorubicin (ADM)-resistant subline (K562/ADM) of human myelogenous leukemia cell line, K562, was examined for reactivity with 41 cultured human leukemia and lymphoma cell lines. None of these cell lines had ever been exposed to any anticancer agent in vitro except K562/ADM. The relative resistance index to various drugs was calculated by dividing the 50% growth inhibitory concentration (IC50) of the test cell line by IC50 of K562 (the negative control in the antibody experiment). MRK20-F(ab')2 reacted with seven cell lines, KYO-1 derived from chronic myelogenous leukemia in blastic crisis (CMLbc), CMK from acute megakaryoblastic leukemia, HEL from erythroleukemia, P31/FUJ from acute monocytic leukemia, KOPM-28 from CMLbc, PL-21 from acute promyelocytic leukemia and K562/ADM. MRK20-F(ab')2 did not react with 34 other cell lines. All seven MRK20-F(ab')2-positive cell lines had relative resistance index values of 2 or more to anthracyclines (ADM, pyrarubicin, daunorubicin), mitoxantrone, etoposide, bleomycin, and pepleomycin. There was no distinct correlation between the reactivity to MRK20-F(ab')2 and a higher relative resistance index than 2 to vinca alkaloids, actinomycin-D, cisplatin, 4 hydroperoxycyclophosphamide, nimustine hydrochloride, methotrexate or cytarabine. These results indicate that MRK20-F(ab')2 detects a novel multidrug resistance to anthracyclines, mitoxantrone, etoposide, bleomycin and pepleomycin in cultured human leukemia and lymphoma cells. PMID- 2514174 TI - The effect of exogenous gonadotropic hormones on the endometrium of the rat. AB - This investigation examined the effects of hyperstimulation on the uterine endometrium of rats. Female rats were injected, out of cycle, with FSH followed by hCG and mated. Control rats were mated during oestrus. Animals were killed at 5.5 days of pregnancy. The endometrium was examined by light and electron microscopy. Hyperstimulation resulted in an increase in the length and number of microvilli and a deficiency of the glycocalyx of surface epithelial cells. Stromal cells failed to undergo decidualization. These alterations in morphology may interfere with attachment and implantation of the embryo. PMID- 2514175 TI - The comparative anatomy of the forelimb veins of primates. AB - One hundred and thirteen forelimbs taken from 62 individuals belonging to 17 primate genera were dissected to reveal the entire course of the superficial venous system. The course of the deep venous system was also documented in at least one forelimb of each primate genus, and the number and location of perforating veins was recorded in 18 human and 45 non-human primate limbs. In Pan, Gorilla and in about 25% of human specimens the lateral superficial vein was confined to the forearm, while in all other primates, and in the majority of humans, this vein extended from the carpus to the clavicular region. Only Pongo and humans exhibited a second main superficial vein on the medial side of the forearm. In all primates the deep veins of the forelimb usually accompanied the arteries. Thus variation in the deep venous system reflected the different arterial patterns exhibited by these primates. The number of perforating veins in the forelimb was related to the length of the limb. Primate genera with longer forelimbs had more perforators, though not as many as would be expected if the number of perforators scaled linearly with limb length. PMID- 2514176 TI - Measurement of cochlear blood flow: intravital fluorescence microscopy. AB - A technique is described for directly observing in vivo cochlear microvasculature in the gerbil for physiologic and experimentally induced changes in vessel diameter and blood flow velocity. Measurements are made from computer processed video images of surgically exposed microvessels. These images are obtained using intravital fluorescence microscopy (IFM) with epi-illumination. The Mongolian gerbil is an ideal animal model for circulatory studies of the inner ear. It has a stable heart rate and blood pressure under urethane/alpha-chloralose anesthesia and its cochlea is surgically accessible. A window is created over the feeding artery (anterior inferior cerebellar artery) and over the stria vascularis of the second turn of the cochlea, atraumatically exposing radiating arterioles and strial capillaries. Our system of IFM provides images that are videorecorded, digitally analyzed with a computer image processor, and enhanced according to the type of measurement desired. Velocity measurements are obtained by tracking plasma gaps or single fluorescent labeled red blood cells through successive frames of the videorecorded images. This experimental technique allows us to analyze circulatory responsiveness to a variety of vasoactive drugs administered regionally to the cochlea in concentrations not affecting systemic circulation. PMID- 2514177 TI - Tachykinins mediate hypocapnia-induced bronchoconstriction in guinea pigs. AB - The aim of this study was to determine whether hypocapnia causes bronchoconstriction by releasing tachykinins (TKs) from C-afferent nerves in airways. Hypocapnia-induced bronchoconstriction (HIBC) was induced in anesthetized vagotomized guina pigs by ventilating lungs with a heated humidified hypocapnic gas mixture for 15 min after sudden circulatory arrest. The intensity of bronchoconstriction was assessed by calculating changes in dynamic compliance and by measuring the relaxation lung volume at the completion of experiments. Visualization of the airways by tantalum bronchography showed constriction of segmental bronchi with relative sparing of more proximal airways. Hypocapnia induced bronchoconstriction was prevented by prior administration of salbutamol aerosol. Three experimental interventions were used to investigate the role of TKs in HIBC: 1) repeated capsaicin injections to deplete airway sensory nerves of TKs, 2) treatment with phosphoramidon, an inhibitor of enkephalinase, the main enzyme responsible for TK inactivation, and 3) topical airway anesthesia. Capsaicin pretreatment markedly attenuated the hypocapnia-induced changes in dynamic compliance (P less than 0.0005) and relaxation lung volume (P less than 0.0002), whereas phosphoramidon augmented these changes (P less than 0.02, P less than 0.03, respectively). Topical anesthesia of airways with lignocaine postponed the onset of bronchoconstriction, whereas the longer-acting, more lipid-soluble local anesthetic, bupivacaine, almost completely prevented HIBC. We conclude that, in the guinea pig lung, HIBC is mediated by TKs that are released after the activation of bronchial axonal reflexes. PMID- 2514178 TI - Respiration during recovery from exercise: effects of trapping and release of femoral blood flow. AB - To investigate the contribution of vascular and metabolic stimuli to the sustained hyperpnea after exercise, the respiratory effects of obstructing and then releasing the femoral blood flow were recorded in 15 normal volunteers during recovery from steady-state cycle exercise (80 W). Obstruction was achieved using cuffs around the upper thighs, inflated for the first 2 min of recovery to a pressure of 200 mmHg. Cuff inflation significantly reduced ventilation during recovery compared with control (P less than 0.001); the subsequent release of pressure was accompanied by an increase in ventilation (averaging 3.2 l/min), which began on the first breath after release. This preceded a rise in end-tidal CO2 (maximum 8.3 Torr increase), which first became significant on the fourth breath after release and led to a further rise in ventilation. The first-breath increase in ventilation after cuff release persisted, although slightly attenuated (averaging 2.5 l/min), in additional experiments with inspired O2 fraction of 1.0. The pattern of ventilatory response was also similar when the experiments were performed with 5% CO2 in air as the inspirate. The immediate rise in ventilation on cuff release, together with the persistent response on 100% O2, suggests that the vascular changes resulting from cuff release exert an influence on ventilation independent of the effects of released metabolites on the known chemoreceptors. The persistence of the response on 5% CO2 indicates that CO2-sensitive lung afferents do not have a major role in these responses. PMID- 2514179 TI - Blood gas changes during and after nonspecific airway challenge in asthmatic and normal subjects. AB - Twenty-eight asymptomatic asthmatics and 28 healthy volunteers were challenged with ultrasonically nebulized distilled water (UNDW). Blood gas composition was monitored transcutaneously (PtCO2 and PtcCO2) over 42 min (20 min for electrode stability, 3 min base line, 5 min during UNDW, and 14 min after UNDW). Flow volume curves were recorded before and 15 min after UNDW. Forced expiratory volume in 1 s and expiratory flows decreased in asthmatics but not in normal subjects after UNDW. Mean base-line PtCO2 and PtcCO2 were comparable in the two groups. UNDW in normal subjects produced no significant changes in mean PtcCO2 and PtCO2. In asthmatics, the UNDW-induced decrease in mean PtcCO2 was greater and longer lasting, accompanied by a prolonged decrease in mean PtCO2. PtcCO2 and PtCO2 trends showed highly significant differences compared with healthy volunteers (P less than 0.001). Arterial blood gas measurements validated these changes. UNDW in asymptomatic asthmatics gives rise to a greater and more prolonged hyperventilation than in normal subjects and to gas-exchange abnormalities presumably reflecting a ventilation-perfusion mismatching. PMID- 2514180 TI - Bovine sesamoid bones: a culture system for anatomically intact articular cartilage. AB - Medial sesamoid bones from the metacarpophalangeal joints of calves were used for prolonged culture of anatomically intact articular cartilage on its natural bone support. The cartilage remained viable during culture, without signs of degeneration. After 1 wk of culture the cartilage showed an increased proteoglycan synthesis, and some minor changes in the composition of newly synthesized proteoglycans were observed. In the next 7 wk all studied parameters remained constant, except for the rate of proteoglycan synthesis, which declined between 4 and 8 wk to values just below those measured at the start of culture. Despite the fact that newly synthesized proteoglycans showed some altered biochemical properties, the composition of the total pool of proteoglycans did not change during 8 wk of culture. The significance of this phenomenon is discussed. This new in vitro model of intact articular cartilage offers a promising alternative to in vivo studies because in contrast to other in vitro models no surgical injury of the cartilage is introduced. PMID- 2514181 TI - A mouse hybrid cell line that supports gene expression from a variety of promoters in amplifiable vectors. AB - A hybrid cell line was constructed by fusion of mouse L-cells with an NIH3T3 cell line derivative containing a hybrid gene consisting of the mouse immunoglobulin kappa (IgK) variable gene promoter linked to the Escherichia coli gpt gene. Such hybrids grew to a much higher density compared to either of the parental cell lines. The utility of this cell line as a host to express foreign genes was tested by the expression of TGF-beta cDNA using the cytomegalovirus promoter. The vector also contained the human dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) gene driven by SV40 early promoter, to allow for the amplification of the transfected gene. Initial transformants, selected at 100 nM methotrexate (MTX), were subsequently selected for resistance to a higher concentration of MTX (2 microM). Such clones expressed an increased level of TGF-beta when compared to the initial transformants. Both the initial transformants and the clones with the amplified DHFR gene produced TGF-beta in an acid-activatable precursor form. This mouse hybrid host cell line also allowed the expression of foreign genes cloned in an eukaryotic expression vector with the mouse IgK variable region promoter and human growth hormone as the reporter gene, whereas such vectors did not function in CHO cells. The mouse hybrid cell line was also found to be capable of being used with a broad range of promoters. PMID- 2514182 TI - Signal peptide of Bacillus subtilis alpha-amylase. AB - Mature alpha-amylase of Bacillus subtilis is known to be formed from its precursor by the removal of the NH2-terminal 41 amino acid sequence (41 amino acid leader sequence). DNA fragments coding for short sequences consisting of 28 (Pro as the COOH terminus) 29 (Ala), 31 (Ala), and 33 (Ala) amino acids from the translation initiator, Met, in the leader sequence were prepared and fused in frame to the DNA encoding the mature alpha-amylase. The secretion activity of the 33 amino acid sequence was nearly twice as high as that of the parental 41 amino acid sequence, whereas the activity of the 31 amino acid sequence was 75% of that of the parent. In contrast, almost no secretion activity was observed with the 28 and 29 amino acid sequences. The signal peptide cleavage site of the precursor expressed from the plasmid encoding the 33 amino acid sequence was located between Ala and Leu at positions 33 and 34 and that from the 31 amino acid sequence between Thr and Ala at positions 33 and 34. The NH2-terminal amino acid from the latter corresponded to the 3rd amino acid of the mature enzyme. These results indicated that the functional signal peptide of the B. subtilis beta amylase consists of the first 33 amino acids from the initiator, Met. PMID- 2514183 TI - A protein that accumulates during starvation in Tetrahymena nuclei. AB - Tetrahymena pyriformis was starved in 50 mM Tris-HCl, pH 7.5, at 28 degrees C. The number of cells did not change appreciably under the starvation conditions. Nuclear proteins of unstarved cells and cells starved for 1, 2, 4, and 7 d were analyzed by SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Most of the large amount of nonhistone proteins present in the unstarved cell nucleus disappeared with the starvation time. However, the relative amounts of the high mobility group protein and histones did not change appreciably. On the other hand, a protein with a molecular weight of ca. 16,000 gradually accumulated in the nucleus on starvation. This protein was extracted with 0.25 M HCl, but was not soluble in 0.5 M perchloric acid. The amino acid composition and molecular weight of this protein were similar to those of HMG protein LG-2 of T. thermophila. Some lysyl endopeptidase peptides of this protein were found to have amino acid sequences present in LG-2, thus we tentatively named it an LG-2-like protein. PMID- 2514184 TI - Immunochemical reactivity of native and modified preparations of pig kidney diamine oxidase. AB - This paper describes the antigenicity of pig kidney diamine oxidase [EC 1.4.3.6] and the possible role of constituent amino acids in the epitope structure of the enzyme. The loss of 62% of the biological activity after DAO-anti-DAO antibodies interaction was attributed to the steric hindrance caused by binding of antibody to the enzyme molecule. A gradual loss in antigenicity during ultraviolet (UV) irradiation was observed without any significant conformational change, demonstrating the destruction of antigenic determinants. However, ethoxyformylation of nine histidyl residues with complete inactivation caused no change in immunoreactivity. The results indicate that the antigenic sites and catalytic sites are located at different positions along the polypeptide chain. Moreover, the results of lysine residue modification were suggestive of possible involvement of lysine in the antigenic determinants of DAO. PMID- 2514185 TI - Antimicrobial peptides, isolated from horseshoe crab hemocytes, tachyplesin II, and polyphemusins I and II: chemical structures and biological activity. AB - Tachyplesin is an antimicrobial peptide recently found in the acid extract of hemocytes from the Japanese horseshoe crab (Tachypleus tridentatus) [Nakamura, T. et al. (1988) J. Biol. Chem. 263, 16709-16713]. In our continuing studies on the peptide, we have found an isopeptide, tachyplesin II, and also polyphemusins I and II in hemocytes of the American horseshoe crab (Limulus polyphemus). The complete primary structures of these peptides, which are very similar to that of the previously isolated peptide, now named tachyplesin I, were determined to be as follows: (Table: see text). The isopeptide, tachyplesin II, consists of 17 residues with a COOH-terminal arginine alpha-amide. On the other hand, both polyphemusins I and II were found to contain 18 residues due to an additional Arg residue at the NH2-terminal end as well as a COOH-terminal arginine alpha-amide. The disulfide linkages for polyphemusin I consisted of two bridges between Cys-4 and Cys-17 and between Cys-8 and Cys-13, which was identical to in the case of tachyplesin I. Moreover, all of these peptides inhibited the growth of not only Gram-negative and -positive bacteria but also fungi, such as Candida albicans M9. Furthermore, complex formation between these peptides and bacterial lipopolysaccharides was also observed in a double diffusion test. These results suggest that tachyplesins and polyphemusins are probably located in the hemocyte membrane, where they act on antimicrobial peptides as a self-defense mechanism in the horseshoe crab against invading microorganisms. PMID- 2514186 TI - Biological assays for irritant, tumor-initiating and tumor-promoting activities. II. Standardized initiation/promotion protocol and semiquantitative estimation of promoting (or initiating) potencies in skin of NMRI mice. AB - A versatile standardized protocol of initiation/promotion of skin is described using 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene as initiator and diterpene esters as promoters in 28 female NMRI mice per promoter (or initiator) dose group including appropriate positive and negative controls ("standardized initiation/promotion protocol 28" or "protocol 28"). To monitor the weekly tumor responses, the tumor rate Tr and the tumor yield Ty were recorded per dose group collectively as a measure of the tumor-promoting (or initiating) activity of individual compounds; similarly the general health status of the group was controlled twice weekly by collective weighing of the dose group and recorded daily by the survival rate Sr. Synoptic consideration of Tr, Ty and the promoter dose (or initiator dose) at a set time period of exposure was used for the semiquantitative estimation of the relative tumor-promoting (or initiating) potency, referring to a high-potency promoter (or initiator) as standard. The full scope of utilization of "protocol 28" to determine comparable individual promoting activities and -at 24 weeks of exposure--relative tumor-promoting potencies (rtpp24) is demonstrated in typical examples with 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate (TPA) as well as various other phorbol esters as promoters. For estimation of promoting potencies TPA is rated a rtpp24 of + + + +. The other phorbol derivatives exhibit rtpp24 between 0 and + + + +. In this manner, "protocol 28" was verified in 1000 promoter dose groups (i.e. 28,000 mice) to determine tumor-promoting activities of individual diterpene esters and partly also their rtpp24. Grading of tumor-promoting potencies of diterpene esters in skin by rtpp24 proved useful for evaluating the relative environmental risk involved in exposure to various diterpene esters as well as in comparative mechanistic investigations including structure/activity relationships. As an example, the correlation of irritancy and tumor-promoting potency of certain diterpene esters in epithelial tissue, postulated previously from essentially qualitative data, is verified in semiquantitative terms by comparison--as a typical example--of the irritancy of phorbol esters on the ear and of the corresponding rtpp24 on the back skin of NMRI mice. PMID- 2514187 TI - Selection and isolation of a new variant of DBA/2 mastocytoma P 815 X 2. AB - A tumor model was developed in DBA/2 mice for studying the progression of the mastocytoma P 815 X 2 tumor. Tumor cells obtained from ascites were grown in vitro. The number of cells derived from a single clone was increased by in vitro culture. Cells were then injected either i.v. or i.p. into DBA/2 mice. Large volumes of tumor ascites were observed after i.p. but not i.v. injection. The latter led to tumor growth at multiple sites, especially in the liver. Mastocytoma cells were released from liver tissue and then injected i.p. into other recipients. For cloning of liver invading tumor cells, this procedure was repeated for greater than 20 generations of mice. Tumor infiltration of the liver increased strongly during this period, but ascites volume clearly decreased. PMID- 2514188 TI - Interaction between cisplatin and mesna in mice. AB - The uroprotectant thiol mesna was found to protect adult CD-1 mice from high-dose cisplatin lethality. Mesna doses of 50 mg/kg were given with cisplatin, or 5 min after cisplatin (25 or 30 mg/kg) and acute survival was increased in non-tumor bearing mice. In contrast, mesna mixed directly with cisplatin significantly reduced cisplatin antitumor effects in DBA/2J mice given 10(6) P-388 leukemia i.p. Mesna administered i.p. 5 min after cisplatin (6, 8 or 10 mg/kg) did not reduce cisplatins' antitumor efficacy in this same tumor model. Mesna appears to inactivate cisplatin directly in vitro but possibly not in vivo if separate injections are used. PMID- 2514189 TI - Studies on the mechanism of embryonic frog nerve orientation in a small applied electric field. AB - The mechanism of nerve orientation in an applied electric field has been investigated using a number of pharmacological agents. Galvanotropism may depend on redistribution within the plasma membrane of integral membrane proteins (IMP); blocking this with concanavalin A inhibited orientation. Orientation may depend also on an influx of Ca2+; Co2+ and La3+ blockade of calcium channels inhibited turning in an electric field. Organic blockers of calcium channels did not influence orientation, suggesting that L-type Ca2+ channels may not be present at the growth cone. Procedures that may induce asymmetric entry of Ca2+ on the anodal side of cells caused a reversal of normal galvanotropism, with growth directed towards the anode. This may implicate local levels of cytoplasmic Ca2+ within the growth cone in controlling turning behaviour. An asymmetric distribution of filopodia precedes and may predict the direction of nerve growth in an electric field. Various pharmacological agents perturbed the distribution of filopodia in such a way that this did not reflect subsequent orientation. It is suggested that, normally, local Ca2+ increases and an asymmetry of filopodia operate together in determining orientation, but that filopodial activity is subordinate to and can be overriden by local Ca2+ levels in the growth cone. In addition, two of the drug treatments markedly increased rates of nerve growth, which may be of importance in nerve regeneration. PMID- 2514190 TI - [Non-specific host-defence mechanisms to streptococcal infection]. PMID- 2514191 TI - Programming of ovarian stimulation with norethindrone acetate in IVF/GIFT cycles. AB - Twenty patients were given norethindrone acetate (NET) to program the initiation of controlled ovarian hyperstimulation and to coordinate follicular aspiration with surgery to obtain spermatozoa from the husband. Patients received NET, 10 mg/day orally, starting between days 2 and 4 of the cycle. The duration of NET therapy varied from 9 to 37 days. The mean time of onset of vaginal bleeding, after cessation of NET, was 2.9 +/- 0.7 days. Ovarian stimulation was carried out with a combination of a luteinizing hormone releasing hormone analog, follicle stimulating hormone and human menopausal gonadotrophin. The day of human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) administration ranged from day 8 to day 15 of the cycle (10.1 +/- 1.7). On the day of HCG injection, the mean E2 level was 2188 +/- 1126. The mean number of follicles aspirated was 18.4 +/- 9.9 per cycle. The mean number of oocytes collected per cycle was 15.5 +/- 8.5. There was no correlation between duration of NET suppression and the number of days of gonadotrophin therapy needed to reach HCG administration. The large number of oocytes retrieved is probably related more with the fact that the patients represented a group with a purely male factor of infertility, than by the specific drug protocol utilized. Our results demonstrate that the ovarian response to gonadotrophin stimulation was not affected by NET administration. The main advantages of the use of this drug for cycle control are that its administration is oral, simple and inexpensive. PMID- 2514192 TI - The use of a short regimen of buserelin, a gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist, and human menopausal gonadotrophin in assisted conception cycles. AB - The outcome of in-vitro fertilization treatment using buserelin, an agonist of luteinizing hormone releasing hormone, given in a short stimulation regimen with human menopausal gonadotrophin (HMG), was compared with a conventional regimen including clomiphene citrate (CC). A total of 94 infertile women underwent cycles of treatment with intranasal buserelin, 500 micrograms daily from the first day of menstruation and also HMG daily from the third day. The same patients had previously undergone unsuccessful treatment cycles with CC and HMG. Overall, addition of buserelin resulted in fewer cycles being abandoned (10 versus 34%) and none of the patients ovulated prior to collection. The mean total dose of HMG required was increased by 74% in buserelin cycles. Significantly more oocytes were collected with buserelin treatment (mean 5.9 versus 4.4, P less than 0.01) and, thus, significantly more embryos were transferred (mean 2.3 versus 1.2, P less than 0.0001) although fertilization and cleavage rates were unchanged. Fifteen pregnancies were achieved, giving a clinical pregnancy rate of 22% per embryo transfer. These pregnancies resulted in 16 live births (7 singletons, 3 twins, 1 triplets). Four pregnancies failed before 14 weeks gestation. We conclude, therefore, that the substitution of buserelin for CC for ovarian stimulation in poor responders results in an improved outcome, both in terms of the number of oocytes collected and the pregnancy rate per treatment cycle. PMID- 2514193 TI - Results of in-vitro fertilization in normal ovulatory women treated with pure follicle stimulating hormone. Analysis of the oestradiol response. AB - The relationship between various measures of oestradiol (E2) secretion and the total number of oocytes retrieved (OR) and cleaved embryos (CE) was characterized in normal ovulatory women stimulated with pure follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in a programme for in-vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET). Patients in this study included women with tubal factor as their only cause for infertility. Cycles were monitored with serum E2 concentration and ultrasonography. Human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) was administered when two follicles had a maximum diameter greater than 15 mm. The variables used to characterize the E2 secretory response included: (i) the difference between the highest and lowest E2 concentration during stimulation; (ii) the ratio of terminal to initial E2 concentration; (iii) E2 concentration on the day of HCG administration; and (iv) the slope of the E2 curve. These measures of E2 secretion each correlated with both the number of OR and the number of CE. When all E2 variables were considered simultaneously in a stepwise multivariate regression procedure, variations in the number of OR (r2 = 0.84) or CE (r2 = 0.77) could be explained by variation in the E2 secretory profile. Equations derived from these E2 variables may help to identify and improve problem areas within IVF-ET programmes when actual results differ from expected. PMID- 2514194 TI - The purpose of prelaparoscopy transvaginal retrieval and evaluation of oocytes in a modified GIFT procedure. AB - To minimize the risk of submitting the patient to an 'unnecessary' laparoscopy in cases of unsuccessful oocyte retrieval and to reduce gamete exposure to the probable adverse effects of the CO2 pneumoperitoneum and anaesthetic agents, we have performed transvaginal oocyte recovery prior to performing the laparoscopy for gamete intra-Fallopian transfer (GIFT). When the recovered oocytes had a low potential for fertilization, the GIFT laparoscopy was cancelled and fertilization in vitro and zygote intra-Fallopian transfer (ZIFT) were attempted instead. By introducing this modified, two-stage GIFT procedure, the laparoscopy time was reduced to a quarter of that required for the more time-consuming, conventional GIFT method (18 +/- 4 min and 76 +/- 13 min respectively in the same unit). Of the 35 cases selected for this modified GIFT treatment, only 26 were considered suitable to proceed to laparoscopy, resulting in eight clinical pregnancies (30.7%). The remaining nine (25.7%) GIFT cases were cancelled, due either to the absence of oocytes in four or to their poor quality in five (oopenia). The latter were diverted to IVF and out of five cases, only two oocytes were fertilized and proceeded to ZIFT. No clinical pregnancy resulted. In conclusion, we propose that securing the retrieval of oocytes of appropriate quality seems to be a logical and necessary preliminary step before embarking upon laparoscopy for GIFT or ZIFT, depending upon the biological status of the gametes. By employing this procedure, unnecessary and costly laparoscopy can be avoided in certain cases. PMID- 2514195 TI - Results of IVF attempts in patients with unexplained infertility. AB - From January 1986 to July 1987, 143 patients with unexplained infertility (UI) following 217 IVF attempts were studied and randomly assigned for statistical analysis to be compared with 434 tubal infertility (TI) patients undergoing 748 IVF attempts. The age of patients, previous pregnancy history and stimulation protocols were identical in both groups. In comparison with tubal patients, IVF attempts on the UI group were characterized by the same rates of cycle failure, mean number of oocytes retrieved per cycle, a lower fertilization rate (45.7% UI/59.8% TI) (P less than 0.01) and no difference in cleavage and nidation rates. However, a decrease in the pregnancy rate/attempt (13.8% UI/19.5% TI) tended towards a significant value (P = 0.06). Although the semen parameters were found to be in the normal range during the previous fertility screening in both groups, the incidence of at least one abnormality (count less than 20 X 10(6)/ml, and/or total motility less than 30% and/or abnormal forms greater than 75%) on the day of insemination was found to be significantly higher in UI (20%) than in TI (11%) patients. Moreover, 25% of UI patients did not fertilize any oocytes inseminated, whatever the number of oocytes retrieved. This rate of failed fertilization was significantly lower (9%) in tubal patients. The oestrogen response profiles were similar in both groups, analyzed according to the stimulation protocols.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514196 TI - Time-resolved immunofluorometric assay for thyroxine-binding globulin in serum. AB - We describe a new "sandwich"-type immunofluorometric assay for thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG) in serum. The assay involves a solid-phase monoclonal antibody immobilised in white microtiter wells, and a soluble biotinylated monoclonal antibody that reacts with the captured TBG molecules. Addition of streptavidin labeled with the europium chelator, BCPDA (4,7-bis(chlorosulfophenyl)-1,10 phenanthroline-2,9-dicarboxylic acid), and excess europium results in the formation of a highly fluorescent product. The fluorescence signal of the final complex is quantitated on the dried solid-phase with a pulsed-laser time-resolved fluorometer. The assay requires a 151-fold sample pre-dilution and a total incubation time of 90 minutes. It has a broad dynamic range of 0-100 mg/L and a minimum detection limit of 0.4 mg/L. The coefficients of variation for within-run and between-run assays averaged 4.5% and 5.4%, respectively. The mean analytical recovery of TBG added to serum was 103%. Results obtained by this method correlated well with those determined by a commercial radioimmunoassay (r = 0.96, n = 112) and by an immunoradiometric procedure (r = 0.95, n = 131). PMID- 2514197 TI - Evaluation of fetal growth by ultrasonography in twin pregnancy: a comparison between individual and cross-sectional growth curve standards. AB - Cross sectional curves and individual fetal growth curves standards from the Rossavik growth model [P = c(t)(k + s(t]] were generated for abdominal and head circumferences, femur diaphysis length and estimated fetal weight from a sample of 59 women with twin pregnancy. These curves were compared to their counterparts in singleton pregnancies. Cross sectional curves of the four fetal anatomic parameters under study fell progressively below the curves for singletons during the last trimester of gestation. In contrast, there were few differences between individual fetal groWth curve standards for twin and singleton pregnancies. In 11 of the 59 patients, both methods were used to evaluate fetal growth in the last trimester of gestation. In 5 of these patients, fetal growth was normal by both methods in all 10 fetuses. In the 6 other patients, there were 3 fetuses with abormal estimated fetal weights (EFWs) by both population and individual standards. However, 3 fetuses had abnormal EFW's by populations standards but not by individual standards while the EFW of another fetus was abnormal by individual standards but not by population standards. These results illustrate that the cross-sectional approach to the assessment of growth in twins can be misleading and may lead to incorrect conclusions concerning the growth of these fetuses. PMID- 2514198 TI - Individual growth curve standards in twins: growth in the second trimester. AB - To provide a more detailed assessment of the growth of twins, the individual second trimester growth patterns of six fetal parameters [HC, AC, FDL, ThC, head cube (A) and abdominal cube (B)] were studied in fourteen sets of normal twins (six monozygotic and eight dizygotic) and sixteen normal singletons using the Rossavik growth model [P = c(t)(k + s(t)]. Comparisons of start points and coefficient c values indicated no statistically significant differences in the growth processes of twins and singletons in early pregnancy and no detectable effect of zygocity. Comparisons of second trimester growth within sets of twins and randomly paired singletons revealed the presence of differences in feto placental support. A significant effect of differences in genetic growth potential or maternal support could not be demonstrated, however. These results suggest that with respect to growth, normal twins in the second trimester can be treated as two singletons in the same mother. PMID- 2514199 TI - The size of the renal pelvis on ultrasonography in children. AB - Eighty-seven patients and 60 normal children were studied to determine the upper limit of the renal pelvic size in children and its relation to disease and age. The renal pelves were all measured by ultrasonography. Further radiologic examinations were performed on the disease group to confirm the final diagnosis. We found that a 10 mm diameter was the upper limit of the normal renal pelvis. Second, measuring the renal pelvic size on an ultrasonogram was highly reliable in diagnosing obstructive uropathy (100% sensitivity, 90.3% specificity). However, when the ultrasonogram with the 10 mm criterion was the sole diagnostic measure, many nonobstructive hydronephroses cases (26/37) were misdiagnosed. Therefore, other diagnostic tools should be employed. Third, the size of the renal pelvis was not influenced by age in children. PMID- 2514200 TI - Fat pad vs. anterior subphrenic abscess: a new real-time sign. AB - An echo-poor band of fat is seen between the anterior surface of the left lobe of the liver and the anterior abdominal wall in 25% of patients undergoing an abdominal scan. A similar appearance can be seen in an anterior subphrenic abscess. Normally, with respiration the liver can be seen to slide deeply to this fat band. If the band is due to subphrenic abscess, there is a differential movement due to fixation of the anterior part of the liver. This feature was seen in 4 patients proven to have subphrenic abscesses. This real-time sign is helpful in differentiating if the band is due to fat or to subphrenic abscess. PMID- 2514201 TI - Thyroid metastases: combined role of ultrasonography and fine needle aspiration biopsy. AB - The ultrasonographic findings and the use of ultrasonography combined with fine needle aspiration in 4 cases of metastases to the thyroid are reported. The primary neoplasms were bronchogenic carcinoma (2 cases), malignant melanoma (1 case), and renal cell carcinoma (1 case). Ultrasonography demonstrated bilateral (2 cases) and unilateral (2 cases) enlargement of the gland. In 3 cases, the texture of the gland was heterogenous and had hypoechoic areas. In 1 case a homogeneous mass containing calcified focus was seen. Ultrasonography was able to evaluate the extent of the disease in all patients by revealing metastatic nodes or jugular vein thrombosis. Finally, ultrasonography was useful in guiding fine needle aspiration. The potential use of ultrasonography in detection and biopsy of small thyroid lesions in patients with malignant disease is discussed. PMID- 2514202 TI - Can sonography diagnose acute colonic diverticulitis in patients with acute intestinal inflammation? A prospective study. AB - In a prospective study of 123 patients with clinical signs of acute intestinal inflammation, the sensitivity of ultrasonography in diagnosing acute colonic diverticulitis was 84.6% and the specificity 80.3%. The predictive value of a positive and a negative sonogram was 76.0% and 87.7%, respectively. Of the 52 patients with subsequently proven acute colonic diverticulitis, 44 presented sonographically with a thickened (greater than 4 mm) hypoechoic bowel wall. In 15 patients, enlarged fluid-filled bowel loops were also present. Air-containing diverticula were demonstrated in 3 patients, abscesses in 8 patients, and colovesical fistulae in 2 patients. Eight large abscesses were successfully treated without emergency surgery by percutaneous sonographically guided evacuation. The described sonographic abnormalities strongly suggest acute colonic diverticulitis, particularly when localized in the left lower abdomen. PMID- 2514203 TI - Sonogram of multiple bile duct hamartomas. PMID- 2514204 TI - Lipomas of the spermatic cord and testis: report of two cases. PMID- 2514205 TI - Prenatal treatment of type I congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation by intrauterine fetal thoracentesis. PMID- 2514206 TI - Ultrasound diagnosis of a solitary gastric metastasis. PMID- 2514207 TI - Acute Meckel's diverticulitis: diagnosis by ultrasonography. PMID- 2514208 TI - Difficulties in the prenatal diagnosis of myotubular myopathy by ultrasonography. PMID- 2514209 TI - Image-directed Doppler ultrasound findings in adventitial cystic disease of the popliteal artery. PMID- 2514210 TI - Cholelithiasis in a six-week-old asymptomatic neonate. PMID- 2514211 TI - Disturbed endochondral ossification in the axial skeleton of young broiler fowls. AB - Physeal lesions have been studied in thoracic vertebrae (T3, T4 and T5) of 51 broiler fowls between 28 and 53 days old. Vascular perfusion studies performed on 10 birds confirmed that the cartilaginous epiphyses of T3, T4 and T5 were essentially avascular and thus differ from those of the major long bones. Findings confirm the observation that a number of morphologically distinct lesions of osteochondrosis occur in broiler fowls and that, when physeal clefts can be implicated in their aetiology, the term "osteochondrosis" is inappropriate. Although the location of clefts often differs in long bone and vertebral physes, when metaphyseal vessels are disrupted, the end-result on endochondral ossification is the same in both the axial and appendicular skeleton. Other lesions were observed both independently and in association with osteochondrosis. Such lesions include necrotic seams devoid of haemorrhage, acellular foci and chondrolysis, all of which were most frequently observed in the same vertebral end-plates. Because osteochondrosis was also most common in the same vertebral end-plates, a common aetiology is suggested. Surface regressive changes were common in the articular cartilage of T3, T4 and T5, and it is noteworthy that such changes, although common in older birds, are present in birds so young. PMID- 2514212 TI - Effects of EGTA and calmodulin, neutral thiol proteinases and protein kinase C inhibitors on loss of chicken pineal serotonin N-acetyltransferase activity. AB - This paper shows that the loss of chicken pineal serotonin N-acetyltransferase activity in crude homogenates of the pineal gland during preincubation at 37 degrees C is a complex process which seems to involve protein kinase C, calmodulin and calcium-activated neutral protease. All three compounds are strongly related to free calcium levels, and hence EGTA effectively prevents this loss of activity. It is proposed that the loss of serotonin N-acetyltransferase activity in crude chicken pineal homogenates is due to a series of molecular events, probably triggered by loss of the calcium gradient present in the intact gland by the homogenization process, leading to rapid serotonin N acetyltransferase deactivation. In these homogenates two calmodulin inhibitors, a protein kinase C inhibitor and a neutral thiol proteinase inhibitor, and EGTA were found to markedly reduce the rate of serotonin N-acetyltransferase deactivation. PMID- 2514214 TI - Connecticut in Haiti--an update. PMID- 2514213 TI - Cardiorespiratory responses of the woodchuck and porcupine to CO2 and hypoxia. AB - The burrow-dwelling woodchuck (Marmota monax) (mean body wt. = 4.45 +/- 1 kg) was compared to a similar-sized (5.87 +/- 1.5 kg) but arboreal rodent, the porcupine (Erithrizon dorsatum), in terms of its ventilatory and heart rate responses to hypoxia and hypercapnia, and its blood characteristics. VT, f, T1 and TE were measured by whole-body plethysmography in four awake individuals of each species. The woodchuck has a longer TE/TTOT (0.76 +/- 0.03) than the porcupine (0.61 +/- 0.03). The woodchuck had a higher threshold and significantly smaller slope to its CO2 ventilatory response compared to the porcupine, but showed no difference in its hypoxic ventilatory response. The woodchuck P50 of 27.8 was hardly different from the porcupine value of 30.7, but the Bohr factor, -0.72, was greater than the porcupine's, -0.413. The woodchuck breathing air has PaCO2 = 48 (+/- 2) torr, PaO2 = 72 (+/- 6), pHa = 7.357 (+/- 0.01); the porcupine blood gases are PaCO2 = 34.6 (+/- 2.8), PaO2 = 94.9 (+/- 5), pHa = 7.419 (+/- 0.03), suggesting a difference in PaCO2/pH set points. The woodchuck exhibited no reduction in heart rate with hypoxia, nor did it have the low normoxic heart rate observed in other burrowing mammals. PMID- 2514215 TI - Great rewards follow humanitarian efforts in Jeremie. PMID- 2514216 TI - Evaluation and management of the dental patient with oral sensory complaints. I: Pain and atypical orofacial sensations. PMID- 2514217 TI - Treatment of a partial mandibulectomy patient with a maxillary complete denture, obturator extension & guidance ramp: a clinical report. PMID- 2514218 TI - Survey of dental assistant salaries and benefits in Connecticut. Dental Auxiliary Utilization Team. Department of Behavioral Sciences and Community Health. PMID- 2514220 TI - Job safety & health protection. PMID- 2514219 TI - ADA Principles of Ethics and Code of Professional Conduct. PMID- 2514221 TI - In vitro cytotoxicity of three dentine bonding agents. AB - While several studies have been reported on the physical testing of dentine bonding agents, very few studies have been involved with their biological evaluation. This report describes a new in vitro method for assessing the cytotoxicity of these materials through dentine simulating their clinical use. An experimental bonding agent, now marketed as Tripton by ICI Dental, Scotchbond 2 and GLUMA were exposed to BHK-fibroblasts through 100 and 500 microns slices. All materials were significantly cytotoxic compared with controls through both thicknesses of slice. The ICI Dental experimental material was the least toxic through 100 microns slices (68.8 per cent of controls) followed by Scotchbond 2 (54.2 per cent) with GLUMA the most cytotoxic (26.9 per cent). However, with 500 microns slices values for the ICI Dental experimental material and GLUMA were similar (70.8 and 66.6 per cent respectively), with Scotchbond 2 exhibiting greatest toxicity (52.6 per cent). The results indicate that these materials are considerably more cytotoxic than most restorative materials which have been tested using a similar system. It is anticipated that all materials, in particular Scotchbond 2, could cause severe reactions in deep cavities in vivo in the absence of an adequate lining. PMID- 2514222 TI - Pharmacodynamics of malathion and carbaryl in susceptible and multiresistant German cockroaches (Dictyoptera: Blattellidae). AB - Studies with malathion and carbaryl were done to compare toxicity; absorption, metabolism, internal accumulation, and excretion; and in vivo inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) after topical applications to adult male susceptible (S, Orlando normal) or multiresistant (R, HRDC) German cockroaches, Blattella germanica (L.). Compared with the S strain, R cockroaches were highly resistant to malathion (about 33-fold) and only moderately resistant or tolerant to carbaryl (about 5-fold). Tests with topically applied 14C-labeled malathion and carbaryl indicated that both compounds penetrated rapidly and radioactive products were readily excreted. Rates of absorption or excretion in S and R strains did not differ significantly. Both insecticides were extensively metabolized; each yielded the same array and similar concentrations of metabolites in insects from either strain. In contrast, metabolic detoxification of malathion and carbaryl was significantly greater in R cockroaches when the insects were treated by injection. Strains did not differ significantly in the in vitro inhibition of brain AChE by either malaoxon or carbaryl. However, dramatic differences were observed between strains in the in vivo inhibition of AChE during a 6-h test period after topical treatment with malathion, and moderate but significant differences occurred between strains in the in vivo inhibition of AChE by carbaryl. These data suggest that the strong resistance to malathion and moderate resistance or tolerance to carbaryl in R cockroaches is probably a result of enhanced capability for metabolic detoxification. PMID- 2514223 TI - Effect of phosphate on oxygen-hemoglobin affinity, diphosphoglycerate and blood gases during recovery from diabetic ketoacidosis. AB - The effects of intravenous phosphate administration on the hemoglobin-oxygen affinity, the 2,3 diphosphoglycerate level and blood gases were investigated in twenty severe diabetic patients with ketoacidosis in the intensive care unit. Ten received phosphate (mean total amount for each patient = 300 mEq) and the others did not. The only significant difference noted in all indices measured during the recovery period of eight days was seen to occur after 48 h; the P50 in vivo (Torr) was slightly higher in the group who received phosphate (22.5 +/- 1.6 vs 20.5 +/- 2.2) and for the Hill coefficient (2.4 +/- 0.2 vs 2.2 +/- 0.1). This drop in the oxygen affinity of hemoglobin may be useful in subjects at risk of hypoxia, for example those with cardiac or respiratory failure and justifies the use of phosphate in the first 48 h of treatment of patients with diabetic ketoacidosis. PMID- 2514224 TI - Ocular effects of second generation oral hypoglycemic agents. AB - Second generation oral hypoglycemic agents, such as glyburide and glipizide, are often the treatment of choice in non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus. These sulfonylureas are more potent osmotic agents than their predecessors and may give rise to crystalline lens changes and refractive error shifts in the absence of blood glucose variation. Such a case is presented, as is a detailed description of the mechanism of action of commonly prescribed oral hypoglycemic agents. PMID- 2514225 TI - Re-setting of the hypoxic sensitivity of aortic chemoreceptors in the new-born lamb. AB - We tested to see whether the steady-state hypoxic sensitivity of aortic chemoreceptors was re-set during the first 2-3 weeks of post-natal life. Aortic chemo-receptor activity was recorded from the distal end of the cut aortic branch of the cervical vagus in pentobarbitone - anesthetized, new-born lambs. Two groups were studied, the first aged 1-4 days and the second aged 10-19 days. Chemoreceptor discharge increased as hyperbolic function with increasing isocapnic hypoxia in both groups and we quantified the position and the shape of this response curve. It was shifted to the right significantly in the older group of lambs, the mean vertical asymtote increasing from 10.00 to 27.95 torr PO2. No significant difference was found in the horizontal asymotote or in the 'shaping term' between the two groups. The greatest differences between the stimulus response curves of the two groups of animals with respect to the mean level of discharge and the slope of the curve occurred when PaO2 was below ca. 50 torr. The aortic chemoreceptors of older lambs were unable to maintain a sustained discharge at arterial PO2 values below ca. 30 torr. In contrast, in the younger group PO2 often had to be reduced below this level before discharge increased significantly. We conclude that, like the carotid chemoreceptors, aortic chemoreceptor sensitivity is re-set over the first few weeks of life. The re setting may contribute to the increase in the ventilatory response to hypoxia which occurs over this period. PMID- 2514226 TI - Acute psychosis. PMID- 2514228 TI - Parabrachial nuclear complex. A comparative study of its cytoarchitectonics in birds and some mammals including man. AB - The cytoarchitectonic structure of the ncl. parabrachialis of 20 bird species, 17 mammals and man was studied in sections stained with cresyl violet. This comparative study showed the six cytoarchitectonic subnuclei of the ncl. parabrachialis (subncl. medialis, dorsomedialis, dorsalis, lateralis, dorsolateralis and ventralis) to be unevenly developed in the vertebrates under study. The degree of development of the subnuclei was tabulated to bring out the developmental trends of the ncl. parabrachialis in different groups of vertebrates. Only three of the six subnuclei were found enlarged in higher primates and in man--the subncl. dorsolateralis, lateralis and medialis, the latter two (subncl. lateralis and medialis) being also larger in insectivores. The most primitive structure is that of the subncl. ventralis with features very much like those of a small-cell reticular formation. Cytoarchitectonically speaking, the parabrachial subnuclei appear to be of polyphyletic origin: the medial and dorsomedial subnuclei being close to the substantia grisea centralis, the ventral subnucleus to the small-cell lateral reticular formation, and the lateral and dorsolateral subnuclei to the ncl. pedunculo-pontinus. PMID- 2514227 TI - Dissolution of human brown pigment biliary stones. AB - The chemical dissolution of human brown pigment stones was studied using various monophasic multicomponent solvents. Among the nine solutions tested for stone powder dissolution capacity, the two most active were retained for further analysis. The solvent containing 26 mM ethylenediaminetetraacetate, 40 mM sodium deoxycholate, 10 mM monoolein and 30% dimethylsulfoxide was efficient for calcium and bilirubin solubilization. The other solvent containing dimethylsulfoxide/methyl tert-butyl ether (70:30) had a high capacity for dissolution of cholesterol and bilirubin. From in vitro stone dissolution experiments, we found that alternating treatment every 2 h with these two mixtures was more effective than using these solvents separately. Within 24 h, 90% of cholesterol, 80% of bilirubin, and 70% of calcium were dissolved. In vivo, we studied the dissolution of human stones surgically implanted in the gallbladder of 6 rabbits. Alternating perfusions with the solvents selected led to complete disappearance of stones within 16 h in 5 out of 6 cases. The residual histological toxicity in the gallbladder wall, 15 days after perfusion, was low and blood parameters did not differ from the normal values. PMID- 2514229 TI - An enzyme-linked immunoassay for the measurement of rat alpha 1-acid glycoprotein synthesized by cultured hepatocytes. AB - We have developed a sandwich ELISA to quantify rat alpha 1-acid glycoprotein (AGP). The assay correlated well with RID and the minimum detectable concentration was 1 microgram/l. The assay permits high sensitivity determinations of the rate of synthesis of AGP in vitro. The maximum mean rates observed were 1500 and 1800 ng/24 h/10(6) cells for hepatocytes cultured alone and co-cultured hepatocytes respectively and 39 ng/h/10(6) cells for isolated hepatocytes. PMID- 2514230 TI - Enzyme-linked bio-immunoassay for IFN-gamma by HLA-DR induction. AB - A novel enzyme-linked bio-immunoassay (bio-ELISA) has been developed to detect interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) induced HLA-DR antigen on the surface of human tumor cells. Cells are cultured at 37 degrees C in 96-well microtiter plates in the presence of IFN-gamma for 2 days. After fixation with reagent alcohol the HLA-DR antigen is detected using a monoclonal antibody, followed by goat anti-mouse IgG HRP conjugate. Four human cell lines were evaluated and all expressed HLA-DR in response to IFN-gamma in a dose-related fashion. Based on sensitivity, reproducibility and absence of antiproliferative effect by IFN-gamma, the COLO 205 cells (colon adenocarcinoma) were determined to be optimal. The bioassay is sensitive to 0.3 ng/ml IFN-gamma with a range to 10 ng/ml. The specificity of HLA DR induction by IFN-gamma was demonstrated using an isotype specific monoclonal antibody as well as IFN-gamma neutralizing monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies. The effect of other cytokines on HLA-DR induction with COLO 205 cells was also investigated in this bioassay and only IFN-beta and interleukin-1 (IL-1) showed slight induction of HLA-DR. IFN-alpha had no effect at the concentration tested. Evaluation of assay parameters including reproducibility, sensitivity, simplicity, speed, cost and ability to standardize support the conclusion that this bioassay is a substantial improvement over the routinely used viral inhibition assay as a measure of IFN-gamma biological activity. The bio-ELISA technique also has potential applications for the quantitation of other cellular surface antigens induced by cytokines. PMID- 2514231 TI - High-level expression of chimeric antibodies using adapted cDNA variable region cassettes. AB - A rapid and generally applicable method for the modification of immunoglobulin cDNAs was developed so that the variable (V) regions could be expressed as cassettes, together with a variety of constant regions. Murine cDNAs were isolated, sequenced and the V regions joined to short oligonucleotides providing both splice donor sites and unique restriction sites for insertion into an expression vector. Using this strategy we have expressed the V regions of several murine antibodies, together with the human gamma 1 constant region. Although most of these chimeric antibodies were readily expressed, one murine light-chain cDNA sequence could not be expressed in transfected hybridoma cells. Reconstruction experiments indicate that the sequence created by the fusion of the murine leader and variable region blocked expression at the level of RNA accumulation. The methods described, as well as the potential problems of expression, are applicable to both traditional cDNA fragments and those obtained by in vitro amplification techniques. PMID- 2514232 TI - Monoclonal antibody two-site ELISA for human IFN-gamma. Adaptation for determinations in human serum or plasma. AB - Mouse monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against human interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) were produced after immunization with recombinant IFN-gamma. Two mAbs (1-D1K and 7-B6-1) recognizing distinct epitopes on natural IFN-gamma were selected for the development of a two-site ELISA. The sensitivity was similar for IFN-gamma diluted in PBS with 1% bovine albumin, spent culture medium or fetal calf serum but reduced to approximately 50% when diluted in normal human serum. Individual normal human sera were tested and three of 14 gave false reactivities in the ELISA. One serum factor with major impact on the individual variation and the decreased sensitivity could be adsorbed to and eluted from protein A-Sepharose. Based on these observations we established a new ELISA protocol which made it possible to test for low levels of IFN-gamma in human serum and plasma samples. The modifications in this protocol are easy to apply with basic laboratory equipment. PMID- 2514233 TI - Recombinant human interferon-beta suppresses the replication of HIV and acts synergistically with AZT. AB - The in vitro effects of recombinant human interferon-beta ser (rIFN-beta ser) and 3'-azido-3'-deoxythymidine (AZT) alone and in combination on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) replication were examined. rIFN-beta ser inhibited HIV progeny virus synthesis in cell cultures chronically infected with HIV. When used in combination, suboptimally effective concentrations of rIFN-beta ser and AZT synergistically inhibited HIV-mediated syncytium formation in HeLa T4 cell cultures. Whereas AZT alone reduced HIV replication in human MT-2 cells, addition of low concentrations of rIFN-beta ser reduced by 4- to 1,000-fold the amount of AZT required to maximally block HIV p24 antigen synthesis and HIV-mediated cell lysis. No drug-related cytoxicity was observed when the two agents were used together at and above maximally effective concentrations. These results suggest that a safer, yet effective, therapy for HIV infections may be achieved with reduced doses of AZT in combination with rIFN-beta ser. PMID- 2514234 TI - Interspecies crossreactive antigen of the pancreatic duct cell prepared by monoclonal antibody. A preliminary study of its immunological significance in patients with chronic pancreatitis associated with Sjogren's syndrome. AB - An interspecies cross-reactive antigen (mol wt 60,000) for pancreatic duct cells was prepared by a monoclonal antibody (SP3-1; IgM). Homogenized pig pancreatic tissues were separated by gel filtration chromatography with Sephadex G-100 and ion-exchange column chromatography with DEAE-Sephacel and used as immunogens. Immunohistochemically, antigens against SP3-1 were distributed in duct cells of the pancreas, salivary gland, lacrimal gland, esophageal gland, bile duct, and the distal renal tubule in the pig, monkey, and human. The antigenic determinant contained protein, but not sialic acid or monosaccharide. Preliminary leukocyte migration inhibition test (n = 5) showed positive in four patients with definite Sjogren's syndrome (SS), whereas one patient without autoantibodies similar to SS showed negative. These findings suggest that this antigen may be involved in the pathophysiology in these conditions. PMID- 2514235 TI - Presence of Branhamella catarrhalis alters the survival of Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae in middle ear effusion: an in vitro study. AB - Viable and non-viable B. catarrhalis were mixed together with S. pneumoniae and H. influenzae and injected into non-bacterial mucoid effusion material collected from the middle ear of patients with a present secretory otitis media. The samples were incubated at 37 degrees C. Presence of viable B. catarrhalis could evidently prolong the survival of both S. pneumoniae and H. influenzae. Presence of non-viable B. catarrhalis could also enhance the growth of S. pneumoniae, but not H. influenzae. In contrast both S. pneumoniae and H. influenzae suppressed the growth of B. catarrhalis. PMID- 2514236 TI - Immunocytochemical identification of HIV (p24) antigen in parotid lymphoid lesions. AB - Antibodies to specific human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) polypeptides are important laboratory markers of HIV infection. We have used an antibody to the major structural gag protein p24 of HIV-1 virus to immunochemically localize this capsid antigen in lymphoid cells from seven of eight patients at risk for HIV infection and who presented with parotid lymphadenopathy and lymphoepithelial cysts of the parotid gland. A clinicopathological assessment of these two manifestations as they relate to HIV infection is also presented. PMID- 2514237 TI - Episodic ovarian inhibin secretion is not due to LH pulses in anoestrous ewes. AB - In sheep, secretion of oestradiol by the ovary is stimulated by pulses of LH but the factors controlling ovarian inhibin secretion are not well understood. We have investigated the effect of a single injection of LH on the ovarian secretion of inhibin. Six anoestrous Finn-Merino ewes which had one ovary autotransplanted to a site in the neck had jugular and timed ovarian venous blood samples collected at 10-min intervals for a total of 5 h. The secretion rates of both inhibin (1-3 ng/min) and oestradiol (0.5-8 ng/min) were similar to those observed during the breeding season indicating significant follicular development in these animals. After injection of 2.5 micrograms NIH-LH-S25 intravenously the concentration of LH in plasma rose from a baseline of 1.8 +/- 0.1 (S.E.M.) microgram/l to a peak of 3.9 +/- 0.3 micrograms/l (P less than 0.01). This LH pulse stimulated a corresponding increase (P less than 0.01) in oestradiol secretion from a basal level of 0.9 +/- 0.2 ng/min to a peak of 4.6 +/- 0.6 ng/min that occurred within 30 min of injection. Although inhibin secretion was episodic in nature, increases were not related to either exogenous or endogenous LH pulses. We conclude that, in contrast to oestradiol, the secretion of inhibin by the ovary is not controlled acutely by changes in plasma levels of LH during anoestrus. PMID- 2514238 TI - Source of ovarian inhibin secretion during the oestrous cycle of the sheep. AB - The source of inhibin secretion by the ovary in the sheep at different stages of the oestrous cycle was investigated by in-vivo cannulation of the ovarian veins. Twenty-four Scottish Blackface ewes were allocated to four groups of six ewes, i.e. those operated on during the luteal phase (day 10), and those operated on during the follicular phase 24-30, 36 and 60 h following an injection of 125 micrograms cloprostenol on day 10 of the luteal phase. Samples of jugular and timed ovarian venous blood were collected under anaesthesia before and after enucleation of the corpus luteum. Ovaries were then removed and follicles dissected out. Following injection of cloprostenol, luteal regression occurred as indicated by a fall in the secretion of progesterone. The concentration of inhibin in jugular venous plasma and its ovarian secretion rate were similar at all stages of the follicular phase and during the luteal phase. In contrast, the secretion rate of oestradiol rose from 2.86 +/- 0.73 pmol/min during the luteal phase to 8.70 +/- 2.24 pmol/min 24 h after injection of cloprostenol (P less than 0.05). Following enucleation of the corpus luteum the secretion rate of progesterone fell from 809 +/- 270 pmol/min to 86 +/- 30 pmol/min (P less than 0.001). There was also a smaller, artifactual fall in the secretion rate of oestradiol following enucleation of the corpus luteum, which was of similar size to a fall seen in the secretion rate of inhibin. This resulted in a significant (P less than 0.001) fall in the ratio of progesterone to inhibin, while the oestradiol to inhibin ratio remained unchanged.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514239 TI - Epidermal growth factor increases inhibin synthesis by isolated segments of rat seminiferous tubules. AB - The effect of epidermal growth factor (EGF) on the production of immunoreactive inhibin by adult rat isolated seminiferous tubules in vitro has been investigated. EGF (0.1-1000 ng/ml) added to cultures of seminiferous tubules from adult rats caused a dose-dependent increase in inhibin content in the tubules without changing the amount secreted into the media. However, after continuous stimulation with EGF for periods in excess of 5 days, an increase in inhibin secretion was observed. In the presence of 10 and 100 ng FSH/ml, EGF (10 ng/ml) produced a further increment in the inhibin content of the tubules, but this effect was not found with FSH concentrations of 500 or 1000 ng/ml. EGF also increased the tubule content of inhibin after the addition of 100 micrograms dibutyryl cyclic AMP/ml but no effect of EGF was observed on the FSH- or dibutyryl cyclic AMP-induced secretion of inhibin into the medium. The effect of EGF on inhibin content in the tubules was partially suppressed by the addition of 4 beta-phorbol-12 beta-myristate-13 alpha-acetate (20 ng/ml). Insulin (1-100 ng/ml) decreased basal inhibin secretion without changing the inhibin content of tubules and this effect was antagonized by EGF (10 ng/ml) with insulin doses of 1 50 ng/ml whereas, at 100 ng/ml, the effect of EGF on tubule inhibin content was reversed. The addition of EDTA (2 mmol/l) resulted in an inhibition of basal and EGF-induced inhibin production. These data demonstrate a stimulatory effect of EGF on inhibin production by isolated seminiferous tubules which is inhibited by insulin and phorbol esters, both stimulators of protein kinase C activity. PMID- 2514240 TI - Acute desensitization of pituitary FSH response to LHRH in ovariectomized rats: further evidence that in the presence of ovarian proteins the LHRH-dependent, LH like component of FSH release becomes apparent. AB - Pulsatile release of LHRH and short-term pituitary desensitization to LHRH in the rat are believed to be necessary for the maintenance of LH pulsatility. In contrast, FSH release is partly induced by LHRH release and is partly LHRH independent. This LHRH-independent release of FSH is subject to inhibitory feedback control by ovarian proteins (probably inhibin), and may obscure an LHRH induced short-term loss of pituitary FSH responsiveness to LHRH. The object of this study was to establish whether short-term pituitary desensitization to single doses of LHRH results not only in a loss of LH response, but also of FSH response. Ovariectomized rats were used to eliminate the influence of steroid feedback. A group of ovariectomized rats was pretreated with steroid-free bovine follicular fluid (bFF) to suppress LHRH-independent FSH release, and phenobarbital to suppress LHRH-dependent FSH release respectively, 7 and 1 h before administration of LHRH. Another group received phenobarbital only. The animals were injected sequentially with either low or high doses of LHRH (1.25 or 10 ng/100 g body weight at times 0 and at 80, 120 or 180 min, and 6.25 or 50 ng/100 g at 60 min). Blood was taken for FSH measurements before and 5 and 10 min after each injection. Rats pretreated with bFF and phenobarbital showed an acute FSH response related to the dose of injected LHRH. No dose-response curve was seen in animals which had only been pretreated with phenobarbital.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514241 TI - Formation of releasable gamma-aminobutyrate from putrescine by rat adrenal slices in vitro. AB - Rat adrenal gland slices, when incubated in vitro with [1,4-14C]putrescine, accumulate the radioactive diamine and convert it, in part, to a compound indistinguishable (in four separative systems) from [14C]gamma-aminobutyrate (GABA). Adrenal glands taken from animals that had undergone adrenal enucleation 28 days previously, so that the cortex of the tissue had regenerated, likewise formed [14C]GABA from [1,4-14C]putrescine. Putrescine-derived GABA was released from adrenal slices in vitro by 48 mmol K+/l, the release being dependent upon the presence of Ca2+ in the incubation medium. ACTH(1-24) and 8-bromocyclic AMP both provoked a dose-related release of putrescine-derived GABA, although the dose-response curve for the latter differed somewhat from that for the release of corticosterone by this secretogogue. The enzyme believed to be responsible for the first step in the metabolic transformation of putrescine into GABA, diamine oxidase (DAO), is present in extracts of adrenal tissue and its catalytic activity underwent a transient increase followed by a fall below resting levels upon stimulation of adrenal slices with ACTH(1-24). The conclusion that this enzyme initiates the formation of GABA by this pathway is indicated by the observation that adrenal slices pretreated with the DAO inhibitor, aminoguanidine, released significantly less [1,4-14C]putrescine-derived GABA in response to 48 mmol K+/l than did control tissues. The functional significance of these findings remains to be established. PMID- 2514242 TI - Interdependence of oestradiol and 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone in modulating LH and FSH secretion in rats. AB - The effects of oestradiol, 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and oestradiol plus DHT on pituitary responsiveness to LHRH were studied. Rats ovariectomized for 2 weeks were infused s.c. (by osmotic minipump) with LHRH at 250 ng/h for 6 days. Control rats received a sham s.c. pump. On day 3, silicone elastomer implants containing oestradiol or DHT were implanted s.c. and on day 6 the effects of these in-vivo treatments on pituitary LH and FSH content and on in-vitro (perifusion) LH and FSH secretion following maximal LHRH stimulation (1 microgram/ml perifusion medium) were assessed. Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone alone decreased pituitary LH/FSH content and, in response to acute LHRH challenge in vitro, the absolute rate of LH/FSH release, but not LH/FSH release expressed as a fraction of pituitary content. Oestradiol alone increased pituitary LH/FSH content and LHRH-induced LH/FSH release in vitro, both absolutely and as a fraction of pituitary LH/FSH. Oestradiol exacerbated the decrease in pituitary LH/FSH caused by LHRH pretreatment in vivo, and decreased the absolute rate of LHRH-stimulated LH/FSH release in vitro, but increased this rate when it was expressed as a fraction of pituitary LH/FSH. In both LHRH treated and control rats, DHT increased pituitary LH/FSH content, did not change the absolute rate of LH/FSH release in response to acute LHRH challenge in vitro, but decreased the rate of LH/FSH release expressed as a fraction of pituitary LH/FSH content.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514243 TI - The International Standard for Pituitary FSH: collaborative study of the Standard and of four other purified human FSH preparations of differing molecular composition by bioassays, receptor assays and different immunoassay systems. AB - The International Standard for Pituitary FSH (IS; in ampoules coded 83/575) was assayed in terms of the Second International Reference Preparation of Human Pituitary FSH and LH for Bioassay (IRP 78/549) by 27 laboratories in 13 countries using bioassays, receptor assays and immunoassays. Estimates of the FSH content of the IS by in-vivo bioassay were homogeneous both within and between laboratories and gave a combined geometric mean (with 95% fiducial limits) of 79.9 (74.6-85.4) i.u./ampoule. Estimates by different in-vitro bioassays and receptor assays were also homogeneous between assays and laboratories, and gave a combined geometric mean (with 95% fiducial limits) of 31.2 (28.8-33.9) i.u./ampoule. However, estimates by the 19 different immunoassay systems were heterogeneous and varied between 5 and 31 i.u./ampoule. The material in ampoules coded 83/575 was established by the World Health Organization as the International Standard for Pituitary FSH. It was assigned a unitage of 80 i.u./ampoule on the basis of its calibration by in-vivo bioassay, because this assay best identifies and defines the hormone. However, the introduction of the new IS will necessitate the recalibration of immunoassay kits. FSH 84/530, prepared in the same way as the IS from the same FSH preparation, did not differ significantly from the IS in any of the assay systems studied and appeared to be equally suitable as a standard. Four highly purified preparations of human FSH (FSH A-D), differing in their isoform compositions and in their in-vivo: in-vitro bioactivity ratios, were also studied.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514244 TI - The endocrine and metabolic response to feeding in the developing lamb. AB - Oxygen consumption (VO2), carbon dioxide production (VCO2), heart rate and the arterial plasma concentrations of glucose, non-esterified fatty acids, thyroxine (T4), 3,5,3'-tri-iodothyronine (T3), TSH, insulin, cortisol and GH were measured before and after feeding a formula milk diet to lambs aged 9, 21, 33 and 46 days. In all age groups, VO2, VCO2 and heart rate increased significantly following feeding and this effect was greatest at 9 days of age. Both VO2 and VCO2 before and after feeding decreased with age. Plasma concentrations of T3 before feeding did not change with age, but plasma T3 levels after feeding were significantly higher in lambs aged 9 days compared with 33 and 46 days. There was no effect of feeding on TSH or age on plasma TSH and T4 concentrations. In all age groups, glucose concentration increased after feeding and was paralleled by a rise in insulin concentration. At 9 and 21 days of age plasma glucose and insulin concentrations reached a plateau after the initial postprandial increase and together with a rise in respiratory quotient was indicative of a stimulation of carbohydrate oxidation. Plasma concentrations of GH increased after feeding at 21 days and older, when the mean growth rate was also stimulated by 75%. Basal metabolic rate and dietary-induced thermogenesis both decreased with age and, as a result, metabolism associated with an increase in GH levels after feeding became more efficient in terms of growth rate after 21 days. It is therefore concluded that there are major endocrine and cardiorespiratory changes in response to feeding of the young lamb which are important in stimulating and/or facilitating its growth and development. PMID- 2514245 TI - Ontogeny of pulsatile gonadotrophin secretion and pituitary responsiveness in male puberty in man: a mixed longitudinal and cross-sectional study. AB - The onset of puberty is characterized by a sleep-associated increase in pulsatile LH secretion which is not observed in adults. The ontogeny of gonadotrophin secretion during pubertal maturation may reflect changes in endogenous LHRH secretion, pituitary sensitivity to LHRH and/or alterations in gonadal steroid feedback. To understand the interplay between these mechanisms, we have examined the pulsatile pattern of plasma LH, FSH, testosterone, oestradiol and prolactin between 20.00 and 09.00 h and the pituitary response to repeated exogenous LHRH stimulation in 16 boys with delayed puberty (age 16.3 +/- 2.7 (S.E.M.) years) on one to four occasions in a mixed longitudinal/cross-sectional analysis. Physical maturity was determined by Tanner G staging (1-5) and clinical progress followed for a mean duration of 22.4 +/- 8.5 months during which 33 hormone profiles were obtained. Nocturnal (23.00-09.00 h) LH pulse frequency increased to a peak of 0.54 +/- 0.03/h at stage 2 which was followed by a gradual decline to 0.42 +/- 0.04/h at stage 5. The appearance of LH pulses in the evening (20.00-23.00 h), probably representative of the rest of the day, was delayed until mid-puberty from which point frequency increased to a peak of 0.53 +/- 0.08/h at stage 5. LH pulse amplitude showed a linear increase from stages 1 to 5, with nocturnal pulse amplitudes being higher than evening pulses throughout. FSH did not show a clear pulsatile pattern. The LH:FSH ratio reversed from less than 1 to greater than 1 at stage 2. The LH response to exogenous LHRH increased in parallel with LH pulse amplitude. There was no difference in the pattern of LH response to repeated LHRH stimulation as puberty advanced; the first stimulus always elicited a greater response than subsequent doses. In contrast, the FSH response to LHRH was maximal at stage 1 and became attenuated thereafter. The estimated mean nocturnal LHRH concentration or amplitude did not show any increase during pubertal maturation from 20.42 +/- 11.57 at stage 1 to 35.96 +/- 20.83 ng/l at stage 5. In conclusion, the sequential changes in this study suggest that the sleep-entrained increase in LHRH pulse frequency plays a key role at the onset of puberty. By enhancing pituitary responsiveness and setting in motion a cascade of events, this peripubertal augmentation of LHRH pulse frequency can account for most of the subsequent changes in LH, FSH and testosterone secretion during pubertal development in the male without any apparent alteration in LHRH pulse amplitude. PMID- 2514246 TI - Passively immunizing ewes against inhibin during the luteal phase of the oestrous cycle raises the plasma concentration of FSH. AB - Passive immunization was used to investigate the importance of inhibin in the negative feedback loop regulating the production of FSH in sheep. An anti-serum raised to the 1-26 peptide fragment of the N-terminus of the alpha-chain of porcine inhibin was first shown to neutralize the suppressive effects of inhibin on the production of FSH by dispersed ovine pituitary cells in vitro. Groups of five mature Scottish Blackface ewes on day 8 of the luteal phase of the oestrous cycle were then injected with either 10 ml plasma from normal ewes (control) or 10 ml ovine inhibin antiserum. On day 10, luteal regression was induced by an i.m. injection of cloprostenol (100 micrograms), and ovulation rate determined 6 days later by laparoscopy. Peripheral plasma samples were collected throughout the experimental period. Following treatment, there was no change in the peripheral plasma concentration of LH in either group. Following injection of the inhibin antiserum, the concentration of FSH rose significantly (P less than 0.001) compared with the control group. The concentration of FSH rose from 1.42 +/- 0.06 to a maximum of 2.58 +/- 0.23 (S.E.M.) micrograms/l by 5.6 +/- 0.9 h, this maximum lasting 9.0 +/- 1.1 h. By 32.8 +/- 6.9 h, the concentration of FSH had returned to pretreatment levels, while the titre of free antibody in the plasma of treated ewes was still high. In the treated ewes, there were one single and four double ovulations compared with three single and two double ovulations in the control group, indicating that the inhibin immunization may have resulted in an increase in ovulation rate.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514247 TI - Quantitative analysis of germ cell numbers and relation to intratesticular testosterone following vitamin A-induced synchronization of spermatogenesis in the rat. AB - Synchronization of spermatogenesis would provide an ideal model for the investigation of stage-dependent changes in the secretion of paracrine factors. In vitamin A-deficient animals subsequently injected with vitamin A, over 80% of seminiferous tubules were synchronized within three to five stages of the seminiferous cycle. Following replenishment of vitamin A, spermatogenic stages IV VI (35 days), VI-VIII (38 days), IX-XII (41 days), I-IV (45 days) and V-VII (48 days) were observed. Despite synchronization of spermatogenesis at all stages, spermatogenesis was markedly impaired when evaluated in a quantitative fashion. At all times evaluated, numbers of round spermatids were reduced compared with age-matched controls. Numbers of pachytene spermatocytes reached control values only after 45 days of vitamin A replenishment. Elongate spermatids were almost totally absent up to 41 days after vitamin A replenishment. Testicular and epididymal weights were also reduced, although testicular weights showed a significant recovery over the time-course of the study. Serum and pituitary concentrations of LH and FSH were raised at the commencement of the study, with serum gonadotrophins returning to control values 48 days after vitamin A replenishment. Both testicular and serum testosterone concentrations in treated animals tended to be higher than in the controls. Although synchronization of spermatogenesis was achieved, testicular testosterone concentrations did not reflect the stage-dependent cyclical changes observed in earlier studies. Testicular concentrations of testosterone were raised throughout the period of observation with the exception of animals synchronized around stages II-IV of the spermatogenic cycle. No correlation between the most frequent stages and intratesticular testosterone was found (r = 0.06, P greater than 0.1). Previous observations that testosterone concentrations are selectively increased at stages VII-VIII of the spermatogenic cycle are not supported by the present study. PMID- 2514248 TI - Follicle-stimulating hormones in anterior pituitary glands from children and adults differ in relation to sex and age. AB - Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in extracts of the anterior lobe of pituitaries, collected at autopsy from 13 boys, 21 girls, 17 men and 26 women, was measured in terms of biological activity (B) in vitro by the Sertoli cell aromatase bioassay, and in terms of immunological activity (I) by a radioimmunoassay. The highest concentration of FSH in the anterior lobe found by bioassay was in young girls, who had a mean value three to seven times higher than that in young and elderly men and women and nine times higher than that in young boys. The total amount of FSH in the pituitary found by bioassay and immunoassay was very much less in young boys than in all other groups. The B/I ratio of FSH was higher for all the 27 children below 10 years of age than for any of the 43 adults. This difference in B/I ratio of FSH in whole pituitary extracts persisted in fractions after electrophoretic separation. The mean B/I ratio for young girls was 1.26 times higher than that for young boys and 2.25 times higher than that for adults. Young and elderly men and women had almost identical B/I ratios. All extracts were analysed after electrophoresis and the median charge and charge homogeneity of FSH were estimated. The number of different forms of FSH in pituitary extracts from a child was at least 20-30, similar to that in an adult. In girls, the median charge of FSH was similar to that of young women and significantly less negative than in elderly women. The median charge of FSH in boys was more negative than in girls, but less negative than in both young and elderly men. After treatment of pituitary extracts with neuraminidase, the median charge of FSH in infants was significantly more negative than that in adults. This, together with the differences in B/I ratios between children and adults, indicates a change at puberty in the molecular structure of FSH from juvenile to adult forms of the hormone. PMID- 2514249 TI - An evaluation of the biocompatibility of a glass ionomer-silver cement in rat connective tissue. AB - Pellets of a glass ionomer-silver cement and a zinc oxide-eugenol cement were implanted into the soft tissues and bones of 30 rats. Following experimental periods of 14, 30, and 80 days, the animals were killed and tissue sections were prepared. The responses to each of the materials initially and at 30 days consisted of mild inflammation. No severe inflammatory responses were noted in any of the groups. By 80 days, although mild inflammation persisted, the materials appeared to be well tolerated. Bone apposition occurred in the glass ionomer-silver cement group; the zinc oxide-eugenol group produced fibrosis. PMID- 2514250 TI - Changes in the concentrations of hydroxyproline, glycine and serine in the plasma of haemodialysis patients undergoing erythropoietin therapy. AB - The concentrations of proline, hydroxyproline, glycine and serine were determined in the plasma of 39 haemodialysis patients and 18 healthy subjects, using liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection. Plasma concentrations of the N terminal immunoreactive parathyrin were also measured. In haemodialysis patients, the plasma concentrations of glycine (p less than 0.01), hydroxyproline (p less than 0.05) and proline (p less than 0.10) were significantly increased, whereas the serine concentrations (p less than 0.01) were decreased, compared with those of the healthy controls. Haemodialysis patients showed greatly elevated plasma N terminal immunoreactive parathyrin values (greater than 30 pmol/l), which showed a significant correlation with the hydroxyproline values (r = 0.79). Fourteen haemodialysis patients received erythropoietin therapy. In these patients, changes in the concentrations of plasma amino acids were observed up to one year after the beginning of therapy. In the course of the erythropoietin therapy, the plasma concentrations of glycine (p less than 0.05) and hydroxyproline (p less than 0.10) of the haemodialysis patients decreased, whereas the concentration of serine increased (p less than 0.05) to approximately normal values. The results indicate that erythropoietin therapy leads to a normalization of amino acid metabolism. PMID- 2514251 TI - A simple immunoturbidimetric method for IgG and albumin quantitation in cerebrospinal fluid and serum. AB - We describe a simple immunoturbidimetric method for measuring both IgG and albumin in CSF and serum, which enables the calculation of CSF indices. For each protein, only one calibration curve is used for both CSF and serum samples. The assay protocol is simple and similar for both tests. Sensitivity and versatility of the method afford measurements over a very wide range of concentrations (approx. 0.007 to 94 g/l for IgG and 0.06 to 92.40 g/l for albumin). Precision studies (triplicates for 6 runs over 15 days) gave overall CVs: less than or equal to 2.9 and 4.9% for IgG in CSF (11.5 mg/l) and serum (10.28 g/l); less than or equal to 1.3 and 1.1% for albumin in CSF (115 mg/l) and serum (76.89 g/l). Comparison studies showed good correlation with radial immuno-diffusion (r greater than or equal to 0.995 and 0.976 for IgG and albumin) and rate nephelometry (r greater than or equal to 0.967 and 0.982 for IgG and albumin). Thus, the method under investigation proved to be reliable and appears to be particularly suitable for the routine work. PMID- 2514252 TI - Immunonephelometric determination of the apolipoprotein A-II. AB - A fully mechanized immunonephelometric method is described for the rapid and specific determination of apolipoprotein A-II in serum. The method utilizes commercially available sheep antiserum against human apolipoprotein A-II. Nephelometry was performed with the Behring Nephelometer Analyzer (BNA). A single determination can be performed in 12 minutes, requiring 10 microliters sample volume. The measuring range is about 0.08 to 1.25 g/l apolipoprotein A-II. Precision is characterized by intra-assay coefficients of variation of 3.37%, 3.93% and 4.49% for apolipoprotein A-II concentrations of 1.22 g/l, 0.376 g/l and 0.185 g/l, and inter-assay coefficients of variation of 4.27% for an apolipoprotein A-II concentration of 0.404 g/l, respectively. Accuracy of the method is shown by the close correlation of results with those from radial immunodiffusion (r = 0.913, y = 1.091 x -0.033, n = 75). PMID- 2514253 TI - Polychlorinated biphenyls: the occurrence of the main congeners in follicular and sperm fluids. AB - We have studied the presence of polychlorinated biphenyls in human body fluids associated with reproduction. Since the polychlorinated biphenyls represent a family of compounds, 3 of the main congeners of this family were selected for this study. The distribution of these 3 congeners was investigated in 37 specimens of follicular fluid and in 16 specimens of sperm fluid. Both fluids showed a similar, low contamination with total polychlorinated biphenyls (ca. 10 micrograms/kg on average), but it was evident that the follicular fluids preferentially accumulated the more highly chlorinated components. This finding must be taken into account when interpreting the concentration levels of the main congeners in relation to total pollution and the toxic potential of polychlorinated biphenyls. PMID- 2514254 TI - Reconstitution of the ATP-sensitive potassium channel of skeletal muscle. Activation by a G protein-dependent process. AB - Potassium channels inhibited by adenosine-5'-trisphosphate, K(ATP), found in the transverse tubular membrane of rabbit skeletal muscle were studied using the planar bilayer recording technique. In addition to the single-channel properties of K(ATP) we report its regulation of Mg2+ and by the guanosine-5'-trisphosphate analogue, GTP-y(gamma)-S. The K(ATP) channel (a) has a conductance of 67 pS in 250 mM internal, 50 mM external KCl, and rectifies weakly at holding potentials more positive than 50 mV, (b) is not activated by internal Ca2+ or membrane depolarization, (c) has a permeability ratio PK/PNa greater than 50, and (d) is inhibited by millimolar internal ATP. Activity of K(ATP), measured as open channel probability as a function of time, was unstable at all holding potentials and decreases continuously within a few minutes after a recording is initiated. After a decrease in activity, GTP-y-S (100 microM) added to the internal side reactivated K(ATP) channels but only transiently. In the presence of internal 1 mM Mg2+, GTP-y-S produced a sustained reactivation lasting 20-45 min. Incubation of purified t-tubule vesicles with AlF4 increased the activity of K(ATP) channels, mimicking the effect of GTP-y-S. The effect of AlF4 and the requirement of GTP-y-S plus Mg2+ for sustained channel activation suggests that a nucleotide binding G protein regulates ATP-sensitive K channels in the t-tuble membrane of rabbit skeletal muscle. PMID- 2514255 TI - Cytotoxic T lymphocyte control of acute lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus infection: interferon gamma, but not tumour necrosis factor alpha, displays antiviral activity in vivo. AB - Virus-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) mediate their antiviral activity either by direct lysis of infected cells, or by the release of soluble lymphokines, or by a combination of the two. We have examined the role played by interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) and tumour necrosis factor (TNF alpha) in virus clearance. In vitro the amount of IFN-gamma synthesized by some lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus-specific H-2-restricted CTL clones was quantitatively too small to correlate with a direct antiviral activity in vivo. However, treatment of mice with a neutralizing monoclonal antibody to IFN-gamma significantly inhibited the clearance of virus from the spleens of acutely infected mice given adoptive transfers of immune spleen cells. Additionally, mice treated with exogenous recombinant murine IFN-gamma 24 h before or at the same time as virus inoculation showed reduced virus titres in their spleens. Hence, IFN-gamma displayed a direct antiviral effect in vivo. In contrast, treatment of mice with recombinant TNF alpha had no effect on virus clearance and thus TNF alpha is unlikely to play a significant role in this acute viral infection. PMID- 2514256 TI - Preliminary studies on the biology of Borna disease virus. AB - Borna disease virus (BDV) is an unclassified agent that causes neurological disease in a wide range of animal species and possibly in humans. The infectious nature of BDV has been long established but, despite extensive progress on the pathogenesis of the infection, the aetiological agent is still uncharacterized. Recent studies have shown that BDV replicates productively in cultures of foetal rabbit glial cells (FRG) which produce a virus-specific protein that is easily detected immunocytochemically. This provides a marker for BDV infectivity. This cell culture system was used to investigate the replication cycle of BDV. The agent required at least 1 h to bind to and penetrate the cells and the antigen was detected 24 h later. Cycloheximide and actinomycin D inhibited production of the antigen in inoculated cells, indicating that both protein synthesis and a DNA dependent function were required for the production of viral antigen. Cocultivation of BDV-infected FRG cells with Vero cells resulted in a persistent productive infection in the latter. Use of these cells showed that the infectious agent matured exclusively in the cytoplasm and within the plasma membrane of the cell. Antigen-laden nuclei did not have infectivity. These studies showed that BDV has the physical and replicative properties typical of conventional viruses but its mechanism of replication and site of morphogenesis may be unique. PMID- 2514257 TI - Allergic contact dermatitis from glutaraldehyde exposure. AB - A hospital maintenance employee developed an airborne contact dermatitis when cleaning respiratory therapy equipment. Patch-testing determined that she is allergic to glutaraldehyde, an ingredient in a popular commercial germicidal product. The increasing concern over acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and other infectious diseases has resulted in more intensive cleaning, sterilizing, and disposal procedures in health care facilities. This, in turn, may lead to an increased risk of contact dermatitis among health care workers. Glutaraldehyde is commonly used as a sterilizing agent in medical facilities. It is effective against most micro-organisms, including viruses, and is generally harmless to medical equipment. This report concerns a case of airborne allergic contact dermatitis caused by glutaraldehyde. PMID- 2514258 TI - Epistaxis due to glutaraldehyde exposure. AB - Glutaraldehyde is commonly used as a cold disinfecting agent in the hospital setting and may cause irritation of skin, mucous membranes, and the upper respiratory tract in exposed workers. We report an unusual case of recurrent epistaxis associated with other symptoms of upper respiratory tract irritation and skin rash in a hospital employee using glutaraldehyde for sterilization of endoscopy equipment. A visit to the workplace revealed inadequate personal protective measures and inadequate local ventilation. High-risk work practices contributing to the hazard included soaking of endoscopy equipment in uncovered basins, manual pouring of concentrated glutaraldehyde solutions without the use of proper protective measures, and the use of paper masks, which provide inadequate protection from solvent vapors. The patient's symptoms resolved with the implementation of personal protective measures and engineering controls. PMID- 2514259 TI - The action of ryanodine on rat fast and slow intact skeletal muscles. AB - 1. The action of ryanodine on force development of bundles dissected from rat extensor digitorum longus (EDL) and soleus muscles has been examined. 2. Ryanodine (100-5000 nM) irreversibly depressed twitch and tetanic tension of both muscle types in a dose-related manner. 3. At concentrations above 250 nM, ryanodine induced a slowly developing, dose-dependent contracture which could not be blocked by 5 mM-Co2+. Increasing the stimulation rate or decreasing the oxygenation of the preparation accelerated the rate of contracture development while the total removal of extracellular Ca2+ was required to prevent it. 4. Following the relaxation of the initial contracture (IC) in Ca2+-free solution, a second type of contracture (SC) could be induced by the readdition of Ca2+. This contracture differed from IC in that it was dependent on Ca2+ in the millimolar range and was prevented by 5 mM-Co2+. Both IC and SC were relaxed by perfusion with Ca2+-free, EGTA-containing solution. 5. Subcontracture doses of ryanodine (100 nM) markedly potentiated caffeine contractures of both muscle types. 6. Asymmetric charge movement in EDL fibres was recorded with the Vaseline-gap technique. The amount of charge moved near threshold was virtually unaffected by the presence of 10 microM-ryanodine over the time examined. 7. The results are consistent with the suggestion that ryanodine locks the calcium release channels of the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) in an open subconductance state with reduced conductance. It appears that lowering the external calcium concentration might still inactivate the release channels after they have been blocked open by ryanodine, possibly by an effect on the T-tubular voltage sensor. PMID- 2514260 TI - Amino acid efflux in the isolated perfused rat pancreas: trans-stimulation by extracellular amino acids. AB - 1. Epithelial uptake and efflux of the non-metabolized system A analogue 2 methylaminoisobutyric acid (MeAIB) and L-serine were studied in the isolated perfused rat pancreas using a dual tracer loading and wash-out technique. Uptakes of 2-[14C]MeAIB and L-[3H]serine were measured relative to D-[3H or 14C]mannitol (extracellular tracer) during a 20 min cell loading period. Maximal uptake for MeAIB (34 +/- 2%, n = 6) occurred within 2-3 min and decreased to 14 +/- 2% after 20 min tracer loading. Uptake for L-serine reached a maximum (62 +/- 4%, n = 7) within 1 min and decreased to 19 +/- 2% after 20 min tracer loading. 2. When tracer wash-out was monitored during subsequent perfusion of the preloaded pancreas with an isotope-free solution, D-mannitol predominantly cleared from a fast exchanging compartment (0.54 +/- 0.05 ml g-1, n = 9) with a time constant (Tfast) of 0.68 +/- 0.04 min. Although MeAIB and L-serine exhibited similar fast phases of wash-out, a much larger efflux occurred from a slowly exchanging pool with respective time constants (Tslow) of 15.47 +/- 0.45 min (n = 6) and 5.98 +/- 0.46 min (n = 7). 3. A rapid vascular challenge of the pancreas with 100 mM-L serine transiently accelerated cellular efflux of 2-[14C]MeAIB and L-[3H]serine without affecting wash-out of D-[14C]mannitol. Tracer efflux following cell loading with 2-[14C]MeAIB or L-[3H]serine was not stimulated by a challenge with 100 mM-MeAIB. 4. The time course of amino acid evoked 2-[14C]MeAIB and L [3H]serine efflux paralleled the extracellular dilution profile of a vascular stimulus, suggesting that the acceleration of efflux was due to trans stimulation. 5. Trans-stimulation of 2-[14C]MeAIB and L-[3H]serine efflux by a further twenty-two naturally occurring and three synthetic amino acids was then examined. L-Proline, N-methyl-DL-alanine, L-lysine and D-lysine selectively stimulated MeAIB efflux. Efflux of both tracer amino acids was accelerated by aminoisobutyric acid (AIB), L-serine, L-alanine, L-cysteine, L-threonine, glycine, branched-chain and large neutral amino acids, but affected negligibly by D-alanine, beta-alanine, MeAIB, L-arginine, L-aspartate, L-glutamate, taurine or D-mannitol. 6. In summary, we have characterized amino acid exchange mechanisms in the isolated pancreas and conclude that efflux of intracellular amino acids from pancreatic acinar cells may be mediated by at least two transporters with differing specificity for extracellular amino acids.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2514262 TI - Lectin binding patterns in squamous epithelium in experimentally induced hamster buccal pouch carcinoma. AB - The distribution pattern of certain monosaccharides in the epithelial cells of the hamster buccal pouch was studied during carcinoma development induced by 9,10 dimethyl-1,2-benzathrancene (DMBA). An avidin-biotin-peroxidase complex (ABC) immunohistochemical technique with high affinity biotinylated lectins was employed to identify monosaccharides. Lectins used in this experiment included Concanavalin A (Con A), for identifying mannose or glucose, Ricinus communis agglutinin I(RCA-I), for identifying galactose, and Ulex europaeus agglutinin I(UEA-I), for identifying fucose. The results show that in normal buccal pouch epithelial cells, fuctose or galactose were concentrated predominantly on the cellular membrane, while mannose and glucose were distributed in the cytoplasm. In the epithelial cells undergoing neoplastic transformation induced by DMBA, most cells showed decreased staining of the above-mentioned monosaccharides, while in other areas the cells were heavily stained. However, the most striking change which occurred was that galactose and fucose shifted from the cellular membrane to the intracytoplasmic area during the malignant transformation. Thus, the changes of anatomic location and intensity of staining of monosaccharides in the buccal pouch epithelium may be used as a criteria for early histochemical diagnosis of malignant transformation. PMID- 2514263 TI - An in vitro study of the antibacterial and antifungal properties of an irreversible hydrocolloid impression material impregnated with disinfectant. AB - The difficulties associated with the disinfection of alginate (irreversible hydrocolloid) materials have resulted in the development of an irreversible hydrocolloid impression material impregnated with an antimicrobial compound, didecyldimethyl ammonium chloride. This investigation assessed the antibacterial and antifungal properties in vitro of this innovative irreversible hydrocolloid material by using the agar well technique. The microorganisms used were Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus sanguis, Lactobacillus odontolyticus rodriguez, Actinomyces odontolyticus, mixed salivary organisms, and Candida albicans. The results showed an absence of activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Varying degrees of antibacterial activity were exhibited against the other microorganisms. It is concluded that it is not know whether the limited antibacterial and antifungal effect demonstrated in this study is sufficient to prevent bacterial and fungal colonization of the impression surface in the mouth during clinical practice. PMID- 2514261 TI - Brain regions involved in the development of acute phase responses accompanying fever in rabbits. AB - 1. The effects of microinjection of rabbit endogenous pyrogen and human recombinant interleukin-1 alpha on rectal temperature and acute phase responses were extensively examined in forty different brain regions of rabbits. The acute phase responses that were investigated were the changes in plasma levels of iron, zinc and copper concentration and the changes in circulating leucocyte count. 2. The rostral hypothalamic regions, such as nucleus broca ventralis, preoptic area and anterior hypothalamic region, responded to the microinjection of endogenous pyrogen or interleukin-1 by producing both fever and acute phase responses. 3. The microinjection of endogenous pyrogen or interleukin-1 into the rostral hypothalamic regions significantly decreased the plasma levels of iron and zinc concentration 8 and 24 h after injection. The circulating leucocyte count increased 8 h after injection. However, neither the injections of endogenous pyrogen nor interleukin-1 affected the number of red blood cells. 4. The present results show that the rostral hypothalamic regions respond directly to endogenous pyrogen or interleukin-1 with the consequent development of fever and acute phase responses. PMID- 2514264 TI - Lanthanum mimicks the trp photoreceptor mutant of Drosophila in the blowfly Calliphora. AB - The effect of lanthanum on the light response of blowfly (Calliphora erythrocephala) photoreceptors was studied. The electrophysiological behaviour of the photoreceptors in the presence of La can be summarized as follows: 1. Upon long stimulation the photoreceptors responded with a 'transient receptor potential', i.e. the cells depolarized at the onset of the stimulus and then repolarized to (or below) the resting potential. This effect was dependent on stimulus intensity and occurred only at high intensities. During illumination membrane noise was reduced. 2. The light-induced changes in membrane potential were paralleled by changes in membrane resistance. 3. The time course of the receptor response was slowed down. 4. Light adaptation led to an increase in response latency. 5. The recovery of the receptor response after light adaptation was slowed down. 6. The sensitivity of the receptor cells measured by the response to short light stimuli was reduced. In summary, the electrophysiological behaviour of Calliphora photoreceptors in the presence of La was very similar to that of the photoreceptors of the trp (transient receptor potential) mutant of Drosophila melanogaster. This result suggests that La and trp mutation affect the same cellular processes in the photoreceptors. PMID- 2514265 TI - Epidemiological and cost implications of antihypertensive treatment for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. AB - The major risk factors for coronary disease are blood pressure, blood lipids and cigarette smoking. Major advances have been made over the past 20 years in altering these factors and this has been accompanied by a dramatic reduction in new incidence myocardial infarction (MI) and stroke. Several questions remain however, concerning the best treatment approaches for 'mild' hypertension (DBP = 90-104 mmHg). One major question is the potential ability of different classes of antihypertensive drugs to prevent fatal and non-fatal coronary heart disease. Underscoring this question is the recognition that drug classes differ in their lipid effects. Thiazide diuretics tend to increase total and low density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol, increase triglycerides and slightly lower high density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol. On the other hand alpha 1-antagonists have been shown to influence lipids favourably by lowering total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and increasing HDL-cholesterol. Other agents such as calcium channel blockers and ACE inhibitors appear to be lipid neutral. The cost effectiveness of various treatments for hypertension depends not only on direct drug costs but also on the less well-defined indirect costs associated with possible differences in disease rates between treatments. Estimates of disease occurrence with various lipid changes can be modelled after the results of the Coronary Primary Prevention Trial (CPPT) and cost estimates of various diseases (i.e. acute MI) can be estimated from diagnosis-related group data, insurance data and physician survey data.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514266 TI - An expansile secondary hypophyseal mastocytoma in a dog. AB - A 5-year-old mixed breed dog was presented with a history of depression and anorexia. Physical examination revealed a pharyngeal tumour and a neurological examination indicated the presence of a possible space-occupying lesion in the brain. Investigative procedures included a bloodsmear, impression smears and cytology of the pharyngeal tumour, haematology, chemical pathology, faecal analysis, urinalysis, electrocardiography, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, hormone assays and a computerised axial tomography scan. Results of these investigations revealed a round cell tumour in the pharynx, hypergammaglobulinaemia (34 g l-1), azotaemia (urea 8.6 mmol l-1 and creatinine 170 mumol l-1), hypoalbuminaemia (20 g l-1), proteinuria, sinus bradycardia (heart rate 60 beats per min), increased concentration of protein in the CSF (1.1 g l-1), hypoadrenocorticism (base line cortisol less than 55 nmol l-1) and hypothyroidism (T4 less than 13 nmol l-1). The computerised axial tomography scan revealed a brain tumour in the region of the hypophysis. The dog was euthanased and a post mortem examination confirmed the presence of a pharyngeal tumour with apparent direct extension of the tumour into the brain. Both tumours were confirmed histologically as mastocytomas. PMID- 2514268 TI - The template properties of tetranucleoside triphosphoramidates having cytosine guanosine residues. PMID- 2514267 TI - Inhibition of soybean lipoxygenase and mouse skin tumor promotion by onion and garlic components. AB - Onion and garlic essential oils were previously shown to inhibit mouse skin tumor promotion, as were the enzymes, lipoxygenase, and cyclooxygenase. In the present study, the inhibition of soybean lipoxygenase (EC 1.13.11.12) by onion and garlic components and related compounds was investigated. The IC50 values as well as the kinetic inhibition constants were determined for the most active compounds. Di-(1 propenyl) sulfide, an analog of the substrate moiety required for oxygenase action, was the only irreversible inhibitor observed with Ki = 59 microM and k3 = 0.53/min. Inhibition in the presence of substrate was uncompetitive at 88 and 132 microM linoleic acid with Ki = 129 microM. At 173 microM linoleic acid, however, inhibition was competitive with Ki = 66 microM. Dially trisulfide, allyl methyl trisulfide, and diallyl disulfide were competitive inhibitors, while 1 propenylpropyl sulfide and (E, Z)-4,5,9-trithiadodeca-1,6,11-triene 9-oxide (ajoene) were mixed inhibitors. Nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA), the most potent lipoxygenase inhibitor, was a competitive inhibitor with Ki = 0.29 microM. The results indicate a relative potency of inhibition for structural features in the following order: di(1-propenyl) sulfide greater than an alkenyl trisulfide greater than an alkenyl disulfide. Di(n-propyl) disulfide, a major onion oil component, inhibited neither lipoxygenase nor promotion. Di(1-propenyl) sulfide and ajoene inhibited both. This suggests that the inhibition of lipoxygenase may be involved in antipromotion. PMID- 2514269 TI - Manganese-catalyzed oligomerizations of nucleotide analogs. PMID- 2514270 TI - The extension reached by the minimization of the polarity distances during the evolution of the genetic code. AB - The level reached by the optimization of the polarity distances during the evolution of the genetic code was investigated. The results, although not conclusive, indicate that this optimization level is higher than the data reported in the literature. The results seem compatible with the reaching of an evolutionary minimum, with respect to the optimization of the polarity distances, by the genetic code during its formation. PMID- 2514271 TI - Nucleotide sequences of the 5.8S rRNA gene and internal transcribed spacer regions in carrot and broad bean ribosomal DNA. AB - Nucleotide sequences of the first and second internal transcribed spacers (ITS1 and ITS2, respectively) of ribosomal DNA (rDNA) from two dicot plants, carrot and broad bean, were determined. These sequences were compared with those of rice, a monocot plant, and other eukaryotic organisms. Both types of ITS region in some species of Angiospermae were the shortest among all eukaryotes so far examined and showed a wide range of variation in their G+C content, in contrast to a general trend toward very high G+C content in animals. Phylogenetic relationships of plants with animals and lower eukaryotes were considered using the nucleotide sequences of carrot and broad bean 5.8S rDNA that were determined in the present study, together with that of wheat 5.8S rRNA, which has been reported previously. PMID- 2514272 TI - Intraspecific evolution of a gene family coding for urinary proteins. AB - The genome of the laboratory mouse contains about 35 major urinary protein (MUP) genes, many of which are clustered on chromosome 4. We have used distance and parsimony methods to estimate phylogenetic relationships between MUP genes from nucleotide sequence and restriction maps. By analyzing coding sequences we show that the genes fall into four main groups of related sequences (groups 1-4). Comparisons of restriction maps and the nucleotide sequences of hypervariable regions that lie 50 nucleotides 5' to the cap sites show that the group 1 genes and probably also the group 2 pseudogenes fall into subgroups. The most parsimonious trees are consistent with the evolution of the array of group 1 and 2 genes by mutation accompanied by a process tending toward homogenization such as unequal crossing-over or gene conversion. The phylogenetic grouping correlates with grouping according to aspects of function. The genomes of the inbred strains BALB/c and C57BL contain different MUP gene arrays that we take to be samples from the wild population of arrays. PMID- 2514273 TI - Structural analysis of the uEGF gene in the sea urchin strongylocentrotus purpuratus reveals more similarity to vertebrate than to invertebrate genes with EGF-like repeats. AB - The gene uEGF, a member of the epidermal growth factor family in the sea urchin Stronglyocentrotus purpuratus, is known to express two transcripts that are regulated developmentally in the embryo. We have partially sequenced several uEGF genomic and cDNA clones. We suggest that the smaller transcript is the result of splicing out an internal region present in the larger mRNA, probably with eight EGF-like repeats. The predicted two uEGF products have a signal peptide followed by an EGF-like repeat and a region with approximately 120 amino acids homologous to domain III in complement component C1s. Following these domains, the short product has 12 tandem EGF-like repeats, whereas the long product has approximately 20 tandem repeats. At the carboxy terminus both products have a region homologous to avidin. Unlike Notch and lin-12, no transmembrane domain was found in uEGF. We also show here that uEGF shares two characteristics with vertebrate members of the EGF family, but not with invertebrate members of the same family. (1) All the EGF-like domains sequenced are represented by single exons. (2) All the introns sequenced follow the first nucleotide of a codon. This supports the hypothesis that the organization of the EGF-like domains in vertebrates and in uEGF derived from a common ancestor. Thus, an alternative molecular datum is provided to support the hypothesis of echinoderm-chordate relationships. PMID- 2514274 TI - Indexes to the reassociation and stability of solution DNA hybrids. AB - The computation, assumptions, and properties of DNA-hybrid stability and reassociation indexes were reviewed. Different methods of computing the same index typically yielded similar values. However, because dissociation curves change from asymmetric to symmetric as increasingly divergent DNAs are compared, adequate determination of mode required fitting a complex function. Delta Tm, delta mode, and delta T50H correlated well up to ca. 12, and all were found to be useful indexes of genomic similarity in that range. They also exhibited similar levels of error, even though T50H comprises a percent reassociation component with relatively large variance. At greater distances, the delta Tm scale became markedly compressed because of the boundary imposed by the temperature of hybrid formation (incubation temperature). Though not compressed or technically limited by it, delta mode and delta T50H could not be extrapolated with certainty below the incubation temperature. Among theoretical problems discussed: Tm and mode index an increasingly small percentage of the genome as the extent of reassociation decreases, and they may compare different genomic segments as DNAs become highly diverged. T50H relies upon the assumptions that all sequences evolve at a constant rate and that reassociation behavior is the same among all sequences regardless of their extent of divergence. Tm and T50H may be biased by self-hybridization of repetitive elements or cross-hybridization of paralogous sequences. Delta mode is free of such biases as long as the genomes under comparison are not too diverged. No index was found to be best in all circumstances. PMID- 2514275 TI - Identification of a locality in snake venom alpha-neurotoxins with a significant compositional similarity to marine snail alpha-conotoxins: implications for evolution and structure/activity. AB - alpha-neurotoxins from elapid snake venoms and alpha-conotoxins from marine snails bind specifically and with high affinity to nicotinic cholinoceptors. Although both types of toxin are polypeptides, there is more than a fourfold difference in size between the two and no clear sequence homology is evident. A systematic computer search of the three-dimensional structure of erabutoxin b (an alpha-neurotoxin from the false sea snake Laticauda semifasciata) was performed to identify the locality that most closely matched the amino acid compositions of the smaller alpha-conotoxins (from the marine snails Conus magus and Conus geographus). The area of greatest similarity centered on residue position 25 of erabutoxin b, a locale that is conserved throughout the snake alpha-neurotoxins and their homologues. Six proteins unrelated to erabutoxin b were compared to the alpha-conotoxins to show that the extent of the erabutoxin b/alpha-conotoxin match was too high to be coincidental. Homologues of erabutoxin b, namely alpha cobratoxin from Naja naja siamensis and cytotoxin VII4 from Naja mossambica mossambica, were also analyzed. The extent of the matching with the alpha conotoxins decreased in the series erabutoxin b greater than alpha-cobratoxin greater than cytotoxin VII4, and this also relates the order of similarity to the pharmacological properties of the alpha-conotoxins. The alpha-conotoxin-like area of the snake alpha-neurotoxins is peripheral to the site previously considered important for binding to the cholinoceptor, even though it seems to represent the focus of evolutionary convergence between the two types of neurotoxin. The area of resemblance does, however, have strong associations with the conformational behavior of the snake toxins. Hence, the outcome of this study has important consequences for the current ideas on snake alpha-neurotoxin structure/activity relationships and the evolutionary origins of neurotoxicity. PMID- 2514276 TI - Polymerization of a monomeric guanosine derivative in a hydrogen- bonded aggregate. AB - The adduct IIa, in which glycine is linked to the 3'-amino group of 3' deoxyguanosine-5'-phosphate, condenses very efficiently in aqueous solution when treated with a water-soluble carbodiimide to give long oligomeric products. The corresponding cytidine derivative IIb yields a complex mixture of very short oligomers. We believe that the efficient condensation reaction occurs in a hydrogen-bonded tetrahelical aggregate of a type that is known to form with many guanosine derivatives. PMID- 2514277 TI - [Comparison of the bactericidal effects of acid glutaraldehyde and alkaline glutaraldehyde]. AB - Two glutaraldehydes, acid glutaraldehyde (sonacide) and alkaline glutaraldehyde (cidex) were evaluated for their bactericidal effect under different conditions. Two percent acid and alkaline glutaraldehyde could destroy vegetative bacteria and spores in twenty minutes. Less than 2.9 percent residual contamination rate could be achieved after immersing equipment in 0.1 percent acid glutaraldehyde or 0.5 percent alkaline glutaraldehyde for 30 minutes. Complete sterilization could be obtained by using two percent acid glutaraldehyde, while 0.5 percent residual contamination was noted after equipment had been immersed in two percent alkaline glutaraldehyde for one month. Acid glutaraldehyde could destroy bacteria completely in 30 minutes even after the solution had been standing for one month, but alkaline glutaraldehyde had an 11.4 to 26.9 percent residual rate. There were no deleterious effects on metal equipment after immersing for 14 days, but yellowish discoloration and hardening were observed on plastic and rubber equipment. It is concluded that both of these two glutaraldehydes are effective bactericides, but acid glutaraldehyde is more effective even after standing for one month or after dilution. PMID- 2514278 TI - Seroprevalence of murine typhus and fievre boutonneuse in certain human populations in Egypt. AB - A study was conducted between 1984 and 1987 to determine the prevalence of Rickettsia typhi and Rickettsia conorii infections among humans residing in the Nile Delta, Suez Canal area and Nile Valley of Egypt. Serum specimens were obtained from garbage and rodent control workers, other unclassified occupational workers, and from patients with fever of undetermined aetiology. All sera were assayed for IgA + IgM + IgG (IgAMG) antibody mixture and if positive, reassayed for specific IgM antibody to rickettsia by the indirect fluorescent antibody technique. R. typhi antibody was found in 19% (33/178) of the garbage collectors, whereas only 1% (2/178) had demonstrable antibody to R. conorii. Among those with other occupations, R. typhi antibody was detected in 0.7% (2/295) and none had R. conorii antibody. The antibody prevalence rate for R. typhi among patients with febrile illness ranged from 25 to 41%, and from 2 to 15% for R. conorii, at three different locations in Egypt. In addition, IgM antibody to R. typhi was demonstrated in some patients showing symptoms compatible with rickettsial disease and in some patients who seroconverted, indicating that R. typhi was the cause of illness among some of these patients. These findings support previous observations that R. typhi and R. conorii are the causes of human rickettsial disease in Egypt, and that humans are commonly infected with R. typhi. PMID- 2514279 TI - Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay as a diagnostic method for schistosomiasis haematobium. Standardization and application in the field. AB - An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was employed for the quantification of antibodies to Schistosoma haematobium in both human serum and urine samples. The serum ELISA was reproducible with coefficients of variation in intra-day tests and inter-day tests being 2.54-3.64% and 5.04-7.48%, respectively. The specificity of serum ELISA was 100% and its sensitivity was 97%. When the eggs recovered from patients' urine were used for antigen, there occurred non-specific reactions, which were markedly decreased by pepsin treatment of the eggs. In addition, urine could also be used for detecting egg-positive persons with a specificity of 91% and a sensitivity of 97%. However, under field conditions, the specificity of urine ELISA was 82% and its sensitivity was 92%. PMID- 2514280 TI - Management of malnourished children with acute diarrhoea and sugar intolerance. AB - A protocol of nutritional rehabilitation using fermented milk, vegetable oil, and castor sugar has been tested on 54 Senegalese children age 6-36 months admitted with acute diarrhoea and malnutrition. At time of admission, 39 per cent of children were dehydrated and 26 per cent had sugar intolerance. In the course of treatment three absconded and one died from acute pneumonia with respiratory and heart failure. Among those with marasmus there were no differences in mean weight gains between children with sugar intolerance and others, despite a longer duration of diarrhoea in the first group. Furthermore, the treatment protocol has never been compromised because of worsening diarrhoea or weight loss. These results indicate that a formula based on fermented milk together with oral rehydration can be used to treat malnourished children with acute diarrhoea and sugar intolerance. PMID- 2514281 TI - Protein-energy malnutrition in children under five years of age in eastern Sudan. PMID- 2514282 TI - The use of anthropometric indices to monitor the interplay between diarrhoea and malnutrition in Malawi. PMID- 2514283 TI - Nutritional support: service in need of new science. PMID- 2514284 TI - Effect of administered human growth hormone on protein metabolism in septic rats. AB - The effect of administered human growth hormone (hGH) on protein metabolism in septic rats was investigated. Fifty-three male Wistar rates with SVC cannulation were divided into four groups. Group I (n = 10) underwent sham-operation. Sepsis was induced by cecal ligation in group II (n = 19), group III (n = 10), and group IV (n = 14). Isocaloric, isonitrogenous glucose/amino acids were infused for 4 days. hGH was administered in group III (100 mU/day) and group IV (200 mU/day) every day. Cumulative nitrogen balance (mg/kg) in group IV was significantly higher than in group II (p less than 0.01): group I, 1264 +/- 355; group II, 117 +/- 693; group III, 92 +/- 735; group IV, 1001 +/- 279. Cumulative urinary excretion of 3-methylhistidine (3-MH, mg/kg) did not differ between group II and group IV: group I, 6.2 +/- 0.9; group II, 12.0 +/- 2.2; group III, 13.4 +/- 2.9; group IV, 10.5 +/- 2.3. Serum albumin level in group IV (1.8 +/- 0.2 g/dl) was significantly higher than in group II (1.5 +/- 0.2 g/dl) (p less than 0.01). Blood urea nitrogen level in group IV (12.6 +/- 2.3 mg/dl) was significantly lower than in group II (18.8 +/- 7.4 mg/dl) (p less than 0.05). Although serum levels of glucose, insulin, triglyceride, and phospholipid were higher in sepsis groups than in sham-operated group, those levels did not differ among sepsis groups. Administration of hGH, 200 mU/day, resulted in marked nitrogen retention and had little effect on 3-MH excretion.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514285 TI - Gallstone disease in patients with severe short bowel syndrome dependent on parenteral nutrition. AB - An increased incidence of gallbladder disease is seen in patients receiving long term parenteral nutrition (PN). Stasis is thought to play a key role in the development of gallbladder sludge and gallstone formation. The highest incidence of gallbladder disease, by previous reports, is seen in patients with terminal ileal disease or resection. Since PN-dependent patients with severe short bowel syndrome secondary to mesenteric vascular accident have both gallbladder stasis and massive small bowel resection, a retrospective study was undertaken to evaluate the incidence of symptomatic gallbladder disease in this group. Of 11 patients followed over 9 years, five met the inclusion criteria of less than 60 cm of bowel remaining, receiving PN for longer than 6 months and the initial presence of a gallbladder. All five patients developed symptomatic gallbladder disease manifested by cholecystitis or pancreatitis. Factors contributing to gallbladder stasis included poor oral intake and use of anticholinergic and analgesic drugs. Gastric hypersecretion indirectly contributed to decreased oral intake as a means to minimize stool output. As these patients often require several laparotomies during the initial hospitalization, consideration should be given to performing prophylactic cholecystectomy, especially when the potential mortality and morbidity of emergent cholecystectomy done for symptomatic gallbladder disease is taken into account. PMID- 2514286 TI - Comparison of isomolar vs hyperosmolar enteral diets in experimental ileus. AB - The diarrhea observed after infusing hypertonic enteral alimentation solutions may be due to the high osmolality. We compared Vivonex HN (810 mOsm) to Osmolite (300 mOsm) in two canine ileus models. After having bipolar electrodes implanted in the stomach, duodenum, jejunum, and colon, four dogs sequentially underwent operations to produce intestinal obstruction (SBO) or perforation/peritonitis (PER). The SBO was released and the perforation closed 24 hr later. GI myoelectric activity (MEA) was monitored during the first 4 postoperative days and again on the 10th day to determine steady-state MEA. Fasting MEA was recorded for 1 hr, followed by 1-hr recordings after intragastric cannula infusion of either Vivonex HN or Osmolite. There was no significant difference in MEA produced by Osmolite vs Vivonex at any recording site. The 24-hr postop gastric and small bowel MEA was significantly decreased (p less than 0.05) vs postoperative days 2 to 4 and 10 under both fasting and fed conditions. The ileus operations had no effect on colonic MEA. These data show that SBO and PER cause significant decreases in gastrointestinal MEA for 24 hr. There was no difference in MEA response of Osmolite vs Vivonex HN. These results suggest that infusion of hypertonic enteral alimentation solutions does not produce increases in GI myoelectric responsiveness vs isotonic solutions. PMID- 2514288 TI - Five years of experience in patients receiving home nutrition support with the implanted reservoir: a comparison with the external catheter. AB - This study examines 5 years (1983-1988) of home parenteral nutrition (HPN) experience in 27 patients using the implanted reservoir for venous access. Their catheter-related complications are compared to two control populations using the external catheter. Group I compares the 46 patients who all started HPN in the same 5-year period, group II compares 17 patients with experience of both types of venous access. For the entire 58 patients the average infusion time was 22 months (1 month-8.2 yr) and the average complication rate was about one complication every 2 years. Analyzing the separate groups however, group I implanted reservoir patients did better than those with the external catheter (p less than 0.05) and group II external catheter patients did better than those with the implanted reservoir (p less than 0.05). A possible explanation for this discrepancy is the greater medical competence of group I patients selecting the reservoir. The data show a clear separation of patients into those who have minimal complications with either device and others who have several complications with both. Two-thirds of the complications were infectious, one third mechanical. The infectious complications were similar with both catheters; clotting was more common with the external catheter and skin erosion was seen only with the reservoir. Eighty % of patients with experience with both type of venous access preferred the implanted reservoir. PMID- 2514287 TI - Influence of energy source upon body composition in patients receiving intravenous nutrition. AB - The influence of energy substrate upon body composition was investigated by measuring changes in the body composition of 24 patients who received intravenous nutrition for 2 weeks. The patients were randomly allocated to two groups. Twelve patients (the "glucose group") received all 'nonprotein' calories as glucose, the remaining 12 (the "fat-glucose group") received 60% of 'nonprotein' calories as fat emulsion (Intralipid). Amino acids (FreAmine II) were supplied to give a calorie/nitrogen ratio of 150:1. Total calories were supplied at a rate of 1.4 times the measured resting energy expenditure of each patient. Body composition was measured using routine anthropometric techniques and in vivo neutron activation analysis. Significant increases in body fat and total body potassium (TBK) were recorded in the glucose group, but there was no significant change in total body water (TBW) or total body nitrogen (TBN) in either group. The initial value of the ratio of TBK:TBW had a significant negative correlation with the change of TBK in both groups, and with the change of TBN in the glucose group. The study demonstrates the importance of considering nutritional status when analyzing the effects of intravenous nutrition. Glucose as the sole source of calories induced an increase in body potassium independent of protein synthesis; this effect was not observed in patients who received 60% of their energy supply as lipid emulsion. PMID- 2514289 TI - Immediate stimulation of protein metabolism in burned rats by total parenteral nutrition enriched in branched-chain amino acids. AB - The effects of two kinds of total parenteral nutrition (TPN) on energy and protein metabolism were examined in rats subjected to 15% full-thickness scald burns in the absence of septic complications. One type of TPN was enriched in branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), especially leucine (45% BCAA content), and the other was conventional TPN (21% BCAA content). Burned rats received isocaloric and isonitrogeneous TPN solutions for 48 hr after resuscitation by saline infusion for 24 hr. Liver and rectus abdominis muscle were removed from the rats at 7, 24, 48, and 72 hr. The concentrations of adenine nucleotides, RNA, protein, glucose-6-phosphate, hepatic glycogen, muscle phosphocreatine, and 3 methylhistidine were determined. Metabolic alterations occurred during the period of saline resuscitation (0-24 hr). At 48 hr the RNA and protein levels were significantly more improved in the BCAA-TPN group than in the conventional TPN group. At 72 hr, however, the results for the two groups were similar in most metabolite levels. Thus, BCAA-TPN enriched in leucine rapidly stimulated protein synthesis in the liver and muscle. This rapid effect may make it useful during the initial nutritional management of severe trauma patients. PMID- 2514291 TI - The stability of amikacin, gentamicin, and tobramycin in total nutrient admixtures. AB - Amikacin (A), gentamicin (G), and tobramycin (T) were added to eight different total nutrient admixtures (TNA) with varying concentrations of dextrose, amino acid, and fat emulsion to determine drug and emulsion stability. All TNA were prepared aseptically and stored at room temperature under normal room lighting for 12 hr before drug addition. One volume of each drug was added to an equal volume of each of the eight TNAs to simulate 1:1 piggyback contact volumes. Samples were left at room temperature for 6 hr. Drug concentrations were analyzed by fluorescence polarization immunoassay. TNA/drug admixtures were pH tested and visually inspected before and after centrifugation in microhematocrit tubes, noting signs of emulsion stability at 1 and 6 hr. Emulsion particle size was determined at 1 and 6 hr using interference contrast microscopy. All three drugs retained their immunoreactivity in all TNAs for at least 6 hr. G and T were stable in all eight TNAs for at least 6 hr with no significant effect on emulsion particle size or stability after centrifugation. A was incompatible with all eight TNAs, resulting in visual breaking of all emulsions within 1 hr. Therefore, G and T, but not A, can be administered via piggyback method with the eight TNAs tested if the infusion is completed within 6 hr. PMID- 2514290 TI - Effect of total parenteral nutrition with intravenous fat on lipids and high density lipoprotein heterogeneity in neonates. AB - Plasma lipid concentrations and high density lipoprotein (HDL) subclass distributions were evaluated in 22 newborn infants nourished with intravenous (iv)-fat. The majority of infants were premature with respiratory distress syndrome. Based on baseline (prior to iv-fat) HDL subclass profiles determined by gradient gel electrophoresis (GGE), infants fell into two classes, one with two or more pronounced peaks within the normal HDL spectrum (group I, 17 subjects) and the other with highly unusual HDL distribution (group II, five subjects). Total plasma cholesterol increased in both groups during low and high fat intravenous feeding. HDL-cholesterol, however, did not change with iv-fat where mean values for groups I and II at baseline, iv-low fat and -high fat were: group I, 31.2 +/- 7.1, 30.0 +/- 8.8, and 36.6 +/- 16.7 mg/dl, respectively; and group II, 20.0 +/- 7.8, 20.2 +/- 7.4, and 19.8 +/- 8.8 mg/dl, respectively. Unlike HDL cholesterol levels that remained constant with iv-fat, apolipoprotein (apo) AI concentrations increased significantly: group I, 73.0 +/- 11.0, 88.3 +/- 15.9, and 93.1 +/- 21.9 mg/dl, respectively; and group II, 31.8 +/- 10.5, 41.0 +/- 12.8, and 59.3 +/- 18.5 mg/dl, respectively. In group I infants, iv-fat is associated with an increase in larger-sized particles, particularly in the (HDL2b)gge range; in group II there is an increase in (HDL3b)gge and (HDL3c)gge components and a disappearance of particles that fall outside of the size range of normal HDL. In both groups, enteral feeding is associated with a further normalization of HDL subclass distribution. The aberrant GGE profiles and very low apoAI levels of group II infants at baseline were associated with unusual HDL morphology determined by electron microscopy where discoidal structures were prominent. With iv-fat, discoidal particles decline in number while normal spherical structures increase. Prevalence of discoidal HDL at baseline was associated with low concentrations of lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) (1.12 +/- 0.5 micrograms/ml); with iv-fat this enzyme rose to 1.61 +/- 0.18 micrograms/ml. Increased LCAT is associated with the normalization of HDL morphology. It is likely that iv-fat improves the nutritional status of premature infants, thereby stimulating increased liver synthesis of important proteins, including apoAI and LCAT, associated with HDL metabolism. PMID- 2514294 TI - Vitamin plasma levels in long-term enteral feeding patients. AB - Plasma levels of vitamins were determined in eight patients who were nourished with long-term enteral feeding using commercial formulas. The type and quantity of the formula were individually tailored to the patients' needs. Caloric intake (mean +/- SEM) amounted to 1564 +/- 97 kcal/day. Vitamins intake from the formulas, expressed as percent of Recommended Daily Allowances (RDA), was as follows: pantothenic acid, 222 +/- 44%; vitamin B12, 206 +/- 34%; vitamin C, 376 +/- 51%; thiamine, 207 +/- 34%; niacin, 207 +/- 34%; riboflavin, 207 +/- 34%; pyridoxine, 222 +/- 17%; biotin, 113 +/- 13%; vitamin A, 93 +/- 4%; and folic acid, 104 +/- 14%. Plasma levels of thiamine, riboflavin, pyridoxine, pantothenic acid, folic acid, and vitamin B12 were within normal limits in all patients. Two patients had lower than normal plasma levels of nicotinic acid despite the high intake. Plasma biotin levels were above normal in all patients, with a mean of 931 +/- 140 pg/ml (N: 200-500 pg/ml). Ascorbic acid levels were within or above normal, but no correlation with intake was found. Carotene levels were measured in five patients and found to be below the lower limit of normal, a reflection of lack of intake from the enteral formulas. The plasma vitamin A levels were normal in all patients. It is concluded that feeding with commercial enteral formulas results in normal plasma levels of vitamins in patients maintained on these formulas for over 6 months. The excessive amounts of vitamins in the formulas do not result in elevated plasma levels, except for Biotin. PMID- 2514293 TI - Response of preterm infants to aluminum in parenteral nutrition. AB - Twenty-five preterm infants with birth weights (BW) 540 to 2280 g (20 with birth weight less than 1500 g) and gestational ages 24 to 37 weeks, were studied to determine the response to 2 levels of aluminum (Al) loading from currently unavoidable contamination of various components of parenteral nutrition (PN) solution. High Al loading group (H) received solutions with measured Al content of 306 +/- 16 micrograms/liter and low A1 loading group (L) received solutions with 144 +/- 16 micrograms A1/liter. Urine Al:Creatinine (Al:Cr) ratios (micrograms:mg) became elevated and significantly higher in H (1.6 +/- 0.38 vs 0.5 +/- 0.1, p less than 0.05) at the third sampling point (mean 19 days). Serum Al concentrations were highest at onset in both groups and stabilized with study but remained consistently higher than the normal median of 18 micrograms/liter. Calculated urine Al excretion were consistently low and were 34 +/- 6% vs 28 +/- 5% in the H and L groups, respectively. One infant in the L group who died 39 days after termination of above study showed the presence of A1 in bone trabeculae and the presence of excessive unmineralized osteoid along the trabeculae. We conclude that small preterm infants are able to increase urine Al excretion with increased Al load. However urine Al excretion is incomplete with bone deposition of Al and persistently elevated serum Al concentrations. PMID- 2514292 TI - Plasma and red blood cell vitamin E status of patients on total parenteral nutrition. AB - Plasma and red blood cell (RBC) tocopherol isomer (alpha, beta, delta, and gamma) concentrations were measured prior to, and following total parenteral nutrition (TPN), with Intralipid. Before feeding, nine of 13 patients had plasma total tocopherol levels less than 0.6 mg/dl (normal range 0.63-1.24 mg/dl) and 10 of 13 had total RBC tocopherol levels less than 0.2 mg/dl (normal range (0.20-0.39 mg/dl). Following 7 days TPN plasma vitamin E status increased significantly (p less than 0.001). However, this was due mostly to increases in the circulating level of beta + gamma-tocopherols. RBC vitamin E status was also significantly increased (p less than 0.001) following TPN, however, this was again due to incorporation of non-alpha-tocopherols. In a second study a alpha-tocopherol supplement, Vitlipid N, (9.1 mg alpha-tocopherol/day) was included in the feed. In these patients, large increases in plasma concentrations of non-alpha tocopherol isomers were accompanied by an apparent improvement in alpha tocopherol status (0.64 vs 0.44 mg/dl after 7 days). However, RBC alpha tocopherol concentration did not change appreciably in these patients following either 7 or 14 days feeding. It is concluded that RBC vitamin E status is markedly influenced by the available plasma tocopherol pool and that provision of a small supplement of alpha-tocopherol is not sufficient to compete with the high concentration of non-alpha-isomers present in Intralipid. TPN utilizing fat emulsions containing high levels of non-alpha-tocopherol isomers (even when accompanied by alpha-tocopherol supplements) does not improve alpha-tocopherol status. PMID- 2514295 TI - Identifying ICU patients who would not benefit from total parenteral nutrition. AB - This study attempted to improve patient selection for total parenteral nutrition (TPN) by identifying ICU patients whose prognoses were so hopeless that they would not or would no longer benefit from TPN. Computerized trend analysis of daily Apache II scores, corrected for the presence, number, and duration of major organ system failures was used to predict individual hospital outcome among 50 intensive care unit patients treated with TPN. Thirteen of the 18 deaths were correctly predicted without any false predictions. During the study, the results of predictions were not used to influence clinical decision making. If TPN was withheld in the five patients predicted to die before starting TPN, or withdrawn in the eight patients when they were predicted to die, $28,350 or 11.5% of the cost of TPN during the study period would have been saved. This hypothetical study shows that elimination of inappropriate treatment of patients with hopeless prognosis with the aim of avoiding the prolongation of the process of dying and unnecessary suffering is a compassionate patient-selection strategy that can result in major savings in healthcare resources. PMID- 2514296 TI - Insulin adsorption to three-liter ethylen vinyl acetate bags during 24-hour infusion. AB - Insulin adsorption to ethylen vinyl acetate, 3-liter bags injected with 10 insulin units, during 24-hr infusion has been studied. Three different infusions systems (A, B, and C) were tested and eight bags for each system were used. An elevated insulin adsorption resulted in each system. The maximal insulin recovery, expressed as percentage of the original theoretical 3333 microIU/ml insulin concentration, was 19.54% (at time 6), 20.93% (at time 4), and 16.95% (at time 22) for system A, B, and C, respectively. "Dismissed insulin amount" after 24-hr infusion was 1590 +/- 279.5 microIU, 1505.8 +/- 430.5 microIU, and 1253.3 +/- 369.8 microIU for system A, B, and C, respectively. Comparison of insulin concentration values at different times revealed significant differences only at time 18 (if compared with times 0,2.4,6,8,12,14,16) ant at time 20 (if compared with time 4,6,8,10) for system A, and at time 4 (if compared with time 12,14,16,18,20,22,24) for system B. We conclude that a constant but low insulin delivery can be achieved using 3-liter EVA systems and a 24-hr infusion. PMID- 2514297 TI - The absence of the diet-derived 7-deazapurine, queuine in artificial liquid diets. AB - Queuine is a derivative of guanine found in the transfer RNAs of most organisms including man. Higher mammals cannot synthesize queuine and must obtain it either from their diets or intestinal microflora. Tumor cells often contain much less queuine in their transfer RNAs than do normal cells. Cancer patients are frequently fed artificial liquid diets or are nourished by chemically defined intravenously administered liquids. In this report we present the results of our examination of five common artificial nutrition preparations obtained from a hospital pharmacy with respect to their content of queuine. PMID- 2514298 TI - Parenteral nutrition in patients with diabetes mellitus: theoretical and practical considerations. AB - It is estimated that there are 11 million diabetics in the United States. Increasing recognition of the importance of nutrition in clinical medicine coupled with the frequent hospitalizations of the diabetic patient has heightened interest in their nutritional therapy. Patients with diabetes mellitus exhibit many abnormalities in the regulation of carbohydrate metabolism which may be accentuated during illness as part of the metabolic response to injury. An understanding of the effect of injury/illness, parenteral nutrition, and diabetes mellitus on carbohydrate metabolism is essential for the development of a rational approach to the initiation and maintenance of nutritional support in the diabetic patient. PMID- 2514299 TI - Intracardiac thrombus complicating prolonged parenteral nutrition in an adult. AB - Calcified intracardiac thrombi were identified in a 23-year-old man who had received home parenteral nutrition (HPN) for 4 years on account of Crohn's disease. PMID- 2514300 TI - [An autopsied case of an aged patient with advanced gastric cancer that showed a complete response to immunochemotherapy]. AB - Described is the case of an 88-year-old male suffering from advanced hemorrhagic gastric cancer who, because of surgical risk factors, was conservatively treated with immuno-chemotherapy in the form of suppositories containing ftorafur (FT 207) and Picibanil (OK-432). The patient showed marked clinical improvement from this therapy. However, his advanced age and other associated complications kept us from performing further examinations, such as an upper-G-I series and a gastrofiberscopy. A year and 4-months later, the patients died of pneumonia and subsequently was autopsied. Macroscopically, his gastric tumor was found to have completely disappeared and had been replaced by a yellowish-white scar tissue. Microscopically, no cancer cells were found in the examined specimens or in the regional lymph nodes. PMID- 2514302 TI - [Gene encoding growth hormone-releasing hormone precursor: structure and expression control]. PMID- 2514301 TI - [Allogeneic bone marrow transplantation after the treatment of alpha-IFN and high dose SNMC in two cases of acute myeloblastic leukemia with post-transfusional non A, non-B hepatitis]. AB - Two patients of acute myeloblastic leukemia (M2) with post-transfusional hepatitis (non-A, non-B) were treated with alpha-IFN and high-dose SNMC before allogeneic bone marrow transplantation. Bone marrow transplantation from HLA identical and MLR negative sibling donor was carried out when their hepatic functions were almost normalized. In the early phase after bone marrow transplantation, the hepatic function in both two cases has been stable, thus indicating that this treatment should be tried for reducing hepatic dysfunction and for safety bone marrow transplantation. PMID- 2514303 TI - [Structure and regulation of the expression of the thyrotropin releasing hormone gene and processing of the precursor]. PMID- 2514304 TI - [The structure and function of G protein]. PMID- 2514305 TI - [The clinical examination for posttransfusion hepatitis]. AB - We studied viral hepatitis, type A, type B, type D and type non A non B. Type A hepatitis was diagnosed by the serological examination for IgM type anti-HA and total anti-HA. Several cases were negative for IgM type anti-HA within 2 weeks after the onset of type A hepatitis. Type B hepatitis was diagnosed by RIA for serum HBs antigen. Several cases of type B hepatitis were negative for serum HBs antigen but positive for IgM type anti-HBc, or hepatocytes were positive for HBs antigen. These cases had high titer of total anti-HBc. Type D hepatitis was diagnosed by RIA for anti-delta in serum and by PAP stain for delta antigen in hepatocytes. All cases of type D hepatitis were positive for anti-delta in their serum and positive for delta antigen in their hepatocytes, they were positive for HBs antigen. Incidence of HDV infection was 0.7% in HBV carrier. The incidence of non A non B hepatitis was 27.6% in 105 recipients and the incidence of its progression to the chronicity was 20.0%. PMID- 2514306 TI - [Antigen presenting cells and T lymphocytes in the induction phase of contact hypersensitivity]. AB - When a sensitizing substance that induces contact hypersensitivity, fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC), was painted on abdominal skin of mice, FITC+ cells appeared in the inguinal lymph node after 24 hours. The FITC+ cell in the lymph node was relatively large in size, and it did not appear to be a T lymphocyte. When FITC was painted on either murine tail skin or skin pre-treated by tape stripping, the number of FITC+ cells in the inguinal lymph node was significantly less than that in the positive control. In the mesenteric lymph nodes, which have a different lymph flow from that of the skin regional lymph node, FITC+ cells did not increase in number, and the few FITC+ cells were not significantly different in number among above-mentioned experimental systems. In the inguinal lymph nodes on the 4th day after painting of picryl chloride (PCl) on the abdominal skin of mice, L3T4+ cells, which expressed an interleukin 2 receptor (IL-2R), increased in number. On the other hand, when PCl was painted on either tail skin or skin treated by tape stripping, L3T4+ IL-2R+ cells did not increase in the skin regional lymph nodes. The number of L3T4+ IL-2R+ cells in the mesenteric lymph nodes did not increase in any of the experimental systems mentioned above. These results suggest some relationship between antigen presenting cells and T lymphocytes, as well as one between the skin and the regional lymph nodes, in an induction phase of sensitization in contact hypersensitivity. PMID- 2514307 TI - [The influence of total parenteral nutrition on the circadian rhythm of the heart rate in elderly patients with wasting diseases]. AB - The circadian rhythm of the heart rate was assessed using 24 hour electrocardiographic recordings in 18 hospitalized elderly patients with wasting diseases receiving total parenteral nutrition. The nutrient solutions were administered at doses ranging from 360 to 1640 kcal/day. To determine if the heart rate fluctuates rhythmically with a circadian period, the mean hourly heart rate on 24 hour electrocardiographic recordings was used to fit cosine curves by the statistical technique of least squares, and three parameters of the rhythm- designated the mesor, amplitude, and acrophase--were estimated. The cosine curves fitted with a P value of 0.01 or less in all patients before and after insertion of central venous catheters. The mesor represented the rhythm--adjusted mean of the heart rate. The mesor increased significantly with increase in the energy infusion rate (p less than 0.01). The amplitude values were derived from one half of the total diurnal variation of heart rate and the acrophase indicated the time when heart rates were at their peak above the mean. Neither amplitude nor acrophase changed significantly with increase in the energy infusion rate. Furthermore, neither norepinephrine nor epinephrine plasma levels changed with nutrient administration. There were no significant changes in thyroid hormone concentrations. There was a significant positive correlation between mesor changes and rectal temperature with increase in the energy infusion rate (r = 0.76, p less than 0.01). In severely malnourished subjects, changes in the level of feeding can profoundly affect cardiac functions and thermogenic response. PMID- 2514308 TI - [An autopsy case of pallido-nigro-luysian atrophy associated with OPLL]. AB - Clinical and neuropathological studies of a case of pallido-nigro-luysian atrophy with thalamic degeneration and ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) is reported. The patient was a 72-year-old man, suffering from gait disturbance caused by OPLL for about 3 years. The clinical features were characterized by gradual development of disorientation in place, time and person, memory disturbance, vertical gaze palsy and rigidity of extremities. Dysarthria, dysphagia, bradykinesia, masked face and neck dystonia appeared at the advanced stage of his illness. There was no tremor or other involuntary movements. A clinical diagnosis of parkinsonism was suspected. The main neuropathological findings were neuronal loss and gliosis in globus pallidus, substantia nigra, subthalamic nucleus and thalamus. In addition, neuronal loss of the anterior horn of the cervical spinal cord due to compression by OPLL (C4-C7) was recognized. The neuropathological findings of the present case were consistent with systemic degenerative disorder of the nervous system affecting the pallido-nigro-luysian tract. This rare disorder should be considered in the differential diagnosis of parkinsonism in old people. PMID- 2514309 TI - The discrepancy between immunocytochemical and biochemical assay of estrogen receptor in breast cancer patients treated by endocrine therapy. AB - Estrogen receptor (ER) expression was investigated by ER-immunocytochemical assay (ICA) and the dextran coated charcoal (DCC) method in 10 recurrent or primary advanced breast cancer patients treated with endocrine or chemo-endocrine therapy. In 6 of these 10 patients, ER was examined both before and after treatments by the 2 methods. ER contents measured by the DCC method were found to be decreased after treatments, however, no change in the immunoreactivities of ER ICA was observed. In the remaining 4 patients, the ER of new lesions refractory to endocrine or chemo-endocrine therapy was examined. ER status was determined as negative in 3 of the 4 patients by the DCC method, whereas by ER-ICA, the proportion of ER stained cells was about 70 per cent, those cells being diffusely distributed in the section. A discrepancy between ER-ICA and the DCC method was thus demonstrated in breast cancer patients treated by endocrine therapy. PMID- 2514310 TI - [Effect of urinary material and glycosaminoglycans on calcium oxalate monohydrate crystal aggregation]. AB - We have examined by the coulter counter method whether some substances promote or inhibit calcium oxalate monohydrate crystal aggregation. The substances tested were hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate and urinary lyophilized material of less than 10 k dalton fractions having aggregate activity. As a result, hyaluronic acid promoted aggregation at low concentrations but inhibited it at higher concentrations, and chondroitin sulfate only inhibited it. They seem, therefore, to have quite different effects, depending on their urinary concentrations, on calcium oxalate crystal aggregation process. However, urinary fractions only promoted aggregation in a dose-response manner. This promoting effect might be caused by not only hyaluronic acid that was contained in the fractions but also by some other promoters. PMID- 2514311 TI - [Effects of LH-RH analogue on pituitary-testicular axis and bladder carcinogenesis of BBN administered male rats]. AB - As a first step of investigating male predominance of bladder cancer incidence, we have studied relationships between rat bladder carcinogenesis, induced by BBN, and changes of pituitary-testicular axis, induced by a LH-RH analogue. The rats were divided into the following five groups. The first group (Age matched control group) was given normal drinking water for 30 weeks. The 2nd group (BBN group) was given a drinking water containing 0.05% BBN for 6 weeks. The 3rd group (LH-RH group) was given subcutaneous injections of a LH-RH analogue depot every four weeks. The 4th group (LH-RH + BBN group) was given subcutaneous injections of the LH-RH analogue depot every four weeks and a drinking water containing 0.05% BBN for 6 weeks. The 5th group (castration group) was castrated and given normal drinking water. The results were summarized as follows. 1) Serum LH, FSH and testosterone levels reached their peaks one day after the LH-RH analogue injection and decreased afterwards. Testosterone marked a castration level one week after the LH-RH analogue injection. 2) There was no significant difference between the BBN and non BBN groups in serum LH, FSH and testosterone levels. Thus, BBN did not influence the pituitary-testicular axis and the action of the LH-RH analogues. 3) Incidence of cancer was higher in the group of BBN + LH-RH than in the group of BBN 8 weeks after the start of the experiment. Then, the incidence was reversed between 20 weeks and 26 weeks; finally it became almost the same at 30 weeks. This phenomenon may be explained by the experimented schedule we applied; that is, BBN and LH-RH analogue were administered simultaneously. 4) Thus, changes of the pituitary-testicular axis induced by the LH-RH analogue seemed to have influence on bladder carcinogen. PMID- 2514312 TI - [Bone formation in the bilateral kidneys of a chronic renal failure patient. A case report]. AB - A 28-year-old man with back pain visited a near hospital on October, 1987. Afterwards he was referred to our hospital on November 11 for detailed examination of the kidneys. The blood chemical analysis showed marked renal hypofunction. The abdominal USG and CT showed bilateral calcification of the cortices. Biopsy specimens of the kidneys revealed bone formation containing bone marrow tissue. Afterwards he had been treated as an outpatients, but he admitted again on June 3, 1988. He is now being hemodialyzed. PMID- 2514313 TI - Embryo transfer in the cat during the non-breeding season. AB - Studies were conducted to investigate the possibility of embryo transfer in the cat during the non-breeding season. Estrus was induced in 19/22 (86.4%) cats using a porcine pituitary gland preparation. Uterine horns were flushed in 5 cats 6-8 days after mating with expanded blastocysts being collected from 4 cats. One to nineteen blastocysts per cat were transferred to the uterine horns of 6 recipient cats in which ovulation had been induced with HCG. The time differences between time of ovulation in donor and recipient animals were 0.5 days earlier in the recipient (2 cats), 1 day later in the recipient (3 cats), and no difference (1 cat); conception occurred in all the recipients. The ratio of fetuses to transplanted embryos were 1/1, 1/2, 2/3, 2/6, 4/7, and 2/19, respectively. Fetal death occurred in 2 cats at days 22 and 25 and abortion occurred in 3 cats at days 34, 35 and 39. There was a delay in the expulsion of placentae in the animals that experienced fetal death on days 22 and 25, expulsion occurring on days 36 and 56, respectively. One cat was treated with progesterone and carried 2 fetuses to day 66; pregnancy was terminated by cesarean section. In conclusion, it was demonstrated that embryo transfer can be performed in cats in which estrus and ovulation have been induced with porcine pituitary gland preparation during the non-breeding season. However, luteal activity needs to be supplemented by exogenous progesterone administration to maintain pregnancy. PMID- 2514314 TI - Seroepidemiological survey of Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis infection in sheep in Japan using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and immunodiffusion. AB - Sera from 1186 apparently healthy sheep in Hokkaido were examined by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and immunodiffusion (ID) for the presence of antibodies against Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis. ELISA-positives were 466 (39.3%) while ID-positives were 330 (27.8%). Spread of caseous lymphadenitis in sheep in Hokkaido was thus clarified. Although ID was less sensitive than ELISA in detecting the antibodies against C. pseudotuberculosis it did not give any non specific reaction. From the results and in view of the simplicity of the test procedure, ID was found to be of practical diagnostic value. Distribution by age group of anti-C. pseudotuberculosis antibodies in 758 sheep in a herd detected by both tests showed that the ratio of positives was low in sheep aged less than 1 year, and the ratio increased significantly in those aged 1 year and continued to increase with age until it reached a plateau at the age of 4-5 years. PMID- 2514315 TI - Identification of a soluble UDP-Gal: Gal (beta 1-4)Glc (or GlcNAc) (alpha 1-3) galactosyltransferase of bovine colostrum. AB - A soluble UDP-Gal: Gal (alpha 1-3) galactosyltransferase was first detected in bovine colostrum and this enzyme activity was simply assayed by using rho nitrophenyl-beta-lactoside (Gal(beta 1-4)Glc-C6H5NO2, rho NP-lactoside) as an acceptor. Treating the radioactive product with alpha- or beta-galactosidase, the radioactivity (greater than 95%) was released by only alpha-galactosidase and was identified as [3H]galactose. This shows that galactosyl residue was alpha-linked to rho-nitrophenyl-beta-lactoside. Methylation, hydrolysis, thin layer chromatography and fluorography of the reaction product (Gal(alpha 1-) [3H]Gal(beta 1-4)Glc-rho NP) yielded 2,4,6-tri-O-methyl[3H]galactose, indicating that galactosyl residue had been transferred to the carbon-3 position of the terminal nonreducing beta-galactosyl residue in rho-nitrophenyl-beta-lactoside. These results confirmed that the structure of the reaction product was Gal(alpha 1-3)Gal(beta 1-4)Glc-rho NP. The enzyme requires Mn2+ for its activity, and shows pH optimum from 6.5 to 7.5. rho-Nitrophenyl-beta-lactoside and asialo alpha 1 acid glycoprotein were more effective as an acceptor than N-acetyllactosamine. The bovine colostrum (alpha 1-3) galactosyltransferase could not convert human O red cells into B active cells, indicating that this enzyme preparation did not contain the activity to synthesize human blood group B erythrocytes. PMID- 2514316 TI - Difference in content ratio of components among horse serum transferrin variants. AB - Each of five genetic variants of horse serum transferrin (Tf), D, F, H, O, and R, was separated into two bands by polyacrylamide gel isoelectric focusing (PAGIEF). The more acidic band, termed component a, was more abundant than the other one, termed component b, in all variants. Components a and b of TFO variant were immunologically indistinguishable from each other by double immunodiffusion test. Determination of the content ratio of component a to component b in each variant revealed that the variants were classified into two groups: one group (D, F, and H) had a relatively high ratio within a range from 3.4 to 4.0 and the other group (O and R) had a relatively low ratio of 1.8 to 2.3. From these results and reference data on carbohydrate compositions of components a and b, it was proposed that there is a difference in glycosylation between the two groups. PMID- 2514317 TI - Efficacy of ivermectin against live mites and eggs of Sarcoptes scabiei in pigs. AB - Sows infested with Sarcoptes scabiei var. suis (ssvs) were treated with 75, 150 and 300 micrograms/kg of ivermectin by a single subcutaneous injection at the neck region. Compared to the numbers of mites and eggs just before injection, those on post treatment weeks (PTW) 1, 2 and 4 showed significant decreases. Especially at 300 micrograms/kg, the counts showed almost all mites and eggs were eradicated on PTW 1, manifesting ivermectin to possess potential effect on ssve without apparent abnormal side effect. Potential mitocide effect of ivermectin on ssvs was revealed. PMID- 2514318 TI - [Arrhythmia as an indicator for reperfusion following acute myocardial infarct?]. AB - For the purposes of the European double blind and randomized study 27 patients with acute myocardial infarction underwent thrombolysis with rt-PA (60 mg over 90 minutes i.v.) or placebo. To evaluate whether arrhythmias, especially ventricular arrhythmias indicate coronary reperfusion after thrombolysis a 24 hour Holter monitoring was performed from the beginning of the rt-PA or placebo infusion. Typical reperfusion arrhythmias were thought to be idioventricular rhythms (rate less than 110/min), ventricular tachycardia (rate greater than 110/min) or bradycardic rhythm disturbances (rate less than 50/min). The effect of thrombolysis on reperfusion of the infarct related artery was evaluated 90 minutes after the infusion by coronary angiography. After 90 minutes of rt-PA or placebo infusion in 16/16 patients treated with rt-PA and 2/11 patients, who received placebo, was the infarct artery patent. 16/18 patients with a patent artery presented a total of 105 arrhythmic events. 47% of the arrhythmias obviously due to reperfusion were classified as idioventricular rhythms. In contrast only 3/9 patients with an occluded infarct artery presented 25 arrhythmic events. The time of occurrence was not different during the running rt PA infusion compared to placebo. The following interval up to 24 hours showed no difference in incidence and type of the arrhythmias. No relationship was found between reperfusion arrhythmias and salvage of myocardium during 90 minutes of rt PA or placebo infusion. PMID- 2514319 TI - Metabolism of D-ribose administered continuously to healthy persons and to patients with myoadenylate deaminase deficiency. AB - D-ribose was administered orally or intravenously over at least 5 h to eight healthy volunteers and five patients with myoadenylate deaminase deficiency. Intravenous administration rates were 83, 167, and 222 mg/kg/h, which were well tolerated but oral administration of more than 200 mg/kg/h caused diarrhea. The average steady state serum ribose level ranged between 4.8 mg/100 ml (83 mg/kg/h, oral administration) and 81.7 mg/100 ml (222 mg/kg/h, intravenous administration). Serum glucose level decreased during ribose administration. The intestinal absorption rate of orally administered ribose was 87.8%-99.8% of the intake at doses up to 200 mg/kg/h without first pass effect. Urinary losses were 23% of the intravenously administered dose at 222 mg/kg/h. Ribose appeared to be excreted by glomerular filtration without active reabsorption; a renal threshold could not be demonstrated. The amount of ribose transported back from the tubular lumen depended on the serum ribose level. There was no difference in ribose turnover in healthy subjects and patients with MAD deficiency. PMID- 2514320 TI - Detection of fos oncogene products by monoclonal antibody FO-120 in lymphoproliferative disorders. AB - We investigated the expression of fos oncogene proteins in lymphoproliferative disorders, using a monoclonal antibody (FO-120) that was prepared against a synthetic oligopeptide of fos protein (amino acid sequence from 127 to 152). Although peripheral blood leukocytes were rarely positive for FO-120, they were transiently stained after lectin (PHA) stimulation. After culture with IL-2 for 1 or 2 weeks, less than 40% of the lymphocytes weakly reacted with FO-120, whereas strongly positive cells were detected in more than 70% of cells in half the T cell lines established from preleukemic state of adult T-cell leukemia (pre-ATL) and all of ATL derived T-cell lines. All in vivo specimens of non-Hodgkin's malignant lymphomas, except for one case of T-cell lymphoma were also strongly positive. In addition, the extent of the antibody reactivity correlated with the histopathological grade of malignancy in B-cell lymphoma. The reactivity to most AILD-IBL lesions overlapped with that to T-lymphomas, and could be distinguished from that to reactive lesions. FO-120 appears to be a useful tool for detecting early neoplastic changes in lymphoproliferative disorders. PMID- 2514321 TI - [Tissue plasminogen activator reduces the spread of infarction]. PMID- 2514322 TI - Effect of gastrin monoclonal antibody 28.2 on acid response to chemical vagal stimulation in rats. AB - The role of gastrin in mediating the acid response to chemical vagal stimulation was evaluated by intravenous injection of the gastrin monoclonal antibody 28.2 (2.6 mg/rat). The antibody was injected 30 min prior to the administration of vagal stimulants in urethane-anesthetized rats equipped with a double lumen gastric cannula. The gastrin monoclonal antibody 28.2 prevented gastrin-17- but not carbachol-stimulated gastric acid secretion. The gastric acid response to vagal stimulation produced by thyrotrophin-releasing hormone (TRH) injected into the cisterna magna or the dorsal vagal complex and by the GABAB agonist, baclofen, infused intravenously was reduced by 33, 22 and 33% respectively in rats administered with gastrin monoclonal antibody 28.2. These immunoneutralization studies provide evidence that approximately 75% of the acid response to vagal stimulation is not mediated by gastrin in urethane-anesthetized rats. PMID- 2514323 TI - [Comparative study of the antagonizing effect to flunitrazepam between Ro 15-1788 and physostigmine]. AB - In a double blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study, thirty patients who had received flunitrazepam during operation were divided into three groups. At the end of surgery, one group was given a placebo, one group was given Ro 15-1788 (Benzodiazepine antagonist) and a third group was given physostigmine. Each group was assessed at the end of 5 minutes, 15 minutes, 30 minutes 60 minutes and 120 minutes for alertness/sedation, recall, recognition and motor coordination. At the end of 5 and 15 minutes, the patients who had received Ro 15-1788 showed a statistically significant difference in alertness/sedation from those in the other two groups (p less than 0.01). This group also showed a statistically significant difference in motor coordination at the end of 5 minutes (p less than 0.05). There was no significant difference in recognition or recall at anytime. Physostigmine showed no significant difference change from the control group at anytime in every aspect. In conclusion, Ro 15-1788 is an effective antagonist to the alertness/sedation of flunitrazepam, but physostigmine is not. PMID- 2514324 TI - [Effects of labetalol and nitroglycerin during induction of anesthesia and endotracheal intubation in hypertensive patients]. AB - We have compared the effectiveness of labetalol and nitroglycerin for the control of hemodynamic responses to laryngoscopy and endotracheal intubation in hypertensive patients. Twenty four patients with hypertension were randomly assigned to labetalol and nitroglycerin treatment groups, each consisting 12 patients. The labetalol group showed decrease of both systolic and diastolic pressure, minimum raise in heart rate (6.49%) and lowering of RPP (rate pressure product). Nitroglycerin group showed decrease of systolic pressure but diastolic pressure increased 5.76%, heart rate increased 32.27% and RPP increased 19.4%. The result showed that although both drugs blunted the hypertensive response to endotracheal intubation, intravenous labetalol seemed safer and more effective than nitroglycerin to attenuate the hypertensive response to laryngoscopy and intubation in hypertensive patients. PMID- 2514325 TI - Cerebral dysfunction after cardiopulmonary bypass--report of one case. PMID- 2514326 TI - Networking to implement effective health care. PMID- 2514327 TI - Discriminating protection for phototherapy? PMID- 2514328 TI - Managing fetal bradycardia during second stage of labor. PMID- 2514329 TI - Kawasaki disease: new challenges in care. PMID- 2514330 TI - The ethical issues of transplanting organs from anencephalic newborns. PMID- 2514331 TI - Cystic fibrosis miscalculation. PMID- 2514332 TI - Anabolic steroid use among high school athletes. PMID- 2514334 TI - Small sample research. PMID- 2514333 TI - Webster versus reproductive health services. PMID- 2514335 TI - Microbiological screening of blood donations: cost versus effectiveness. AB - The already considerable list of pre-transfusion microbial screening tests may well increase. Some American opinion favours attempting to achieve a 'zero-risk' blood supply by introducing extra tests. However, as well as being theoretically unattainable, 'zero-risk' causes practical problems as the efficacy of a screening test is often predicted, not proven. The increasing complexity of extra testing can overload the system, causing laboratory and clerical errors, and although the blood supply must be as safe as possible a small residual risk should be anticipated and balanced against the risk of withholding transfusion. Assessing cost-effectiveness requires that indirect and direct consequences of infecting a recipient are considered. What is cost-effective in one country may not be elsewhere, due to factors such as microbial prevalence. Uniformity of worldwide transfusion policy must be balanced against the best local use of increasingly limited health-care budgets. PMID- 2514336 TI - Differential gene expression during sporulation in Bacillus subtilis: regulation of the spoVJ gene. AB - The process of spore formation in the Gram-positive bacterium Bacillus subtilis is a simple developmental system controlled by 50 or more genes. The complex pattern of regulatory interactions between these genes is beginning to be elucidated. spoVJ is a poorly characterized locus in which mutations affect spore development at a relatively late stage (Stage V). We have now cloned and physically characterized the spoVJ locus, and analysed its expression by lacZ fusion. Expression of spoVJ is temporally delayed until about two hours after the initiation of sporulation. Its expression is also spatially restricted to the mother cell compartment; as such, it represents the earliest known mother-cell specific event. Control of spoVJ transcription is complex: expression is dependent upon the products of all of the spoO genes and on some of the spoII genes but it is independent of all later genes except spoIIID. As spoIIID mutations do not affect prespore development, this gene must be an important early determinant of mother-cell-specific gene expression. PMID- 2514337 TI - Enumeration of Pseudomonas species and Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteriophages in domestic sewage. AB - Domestic sewage in Kuwait is mainly treated by an activated sludge process. Pseudomonas species were enumerated at all steps of sewage treatment. About 98 99% reduction in the number of these bacterial species were found in the treated effluent compared with raw sewage, which indicates a rather efficient removal of Pseudomonas from sewage. Spherical tail-less phages of Pseudomonas aeruginosa were found in all sewage samples. About 25-85% of the total phages encountered with the raw sewage were retained in the treated effluents. Seasonal variations of Pseudomonas spp and P. aeruginosa phages in two treatment stations are reported. PMID- 2514338 TI - Membrane-bound succinate dehydrogenase of Bacillus pumilus strain 5: effects of modulators of monoelectron transfer. AB - The membrane-bound succinate dehydrogenase (SDH; EC 1.3.99.1) of Bacillus pumilus strain 5 was investigated as succinate:ferricyanide oxidoreductase activity at 27 degrees C. A Km of 8.3 x 10(-3) M was obtained, and the Vmax was 1.8 x 10(-6) mole succinate dehydrogenated min-1 mg-1 membrane protein, at a substrate (succinate) concentration below 40 x 10(-3) M. Above this succinate concentration the Km was 102 x 10(-3) M and the Vmax was 3.7 x 10(-6) mole succinate min-1 mg-1 membrane protein. Para-benzoquinone or 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine, in micromolar amounts inhibited the enzyme by serving as an electron sink. Hydroxyl radical (OH.) scavengers, mannitol and benzoate, activated the enzyme, while superoxide dismutase (SOD) had no effect on the enzyme. Thus, the mechanism of electron transfer from succinate to Fe(CN)3-(6) through SDH does not involve superoxide (O2-) as a rate-limiting intermediate. PMID- 2514339 TI - In vitro antibacterial effect of the essential oil of Thymus longiflorus Boiss. AB - The essential oil of Thymus longiflorus Boiss was tested for its in vitro antibacterial activity. The results showed antibacterial effects against Gram positive and Gram-negative bacteria, especially against Pseudomonas fluorescens and Mycobacterium phlei. PMID- 2514340 TI - [Increased efficiency in the disinfection of sewage by lactic acid bacteria]. AB - The antimicrobic properties have been studied in 30 strains of lactobacilli. As a result a strain, the strongest antagonist relative to choleric vibrios and other enteropathogenic microorganisms, is selected. Lactobacilli are found to retain their viability and biological activity in the activated sludge during the whole period of observation (6 months). Biological disinfection of sewage is shown possible to be intensified using the activated sludge inoculated by the culture of the selected lactobacilli strain. PMID- 2514341 TI - [Polysaccharide--a stimulant of DNA reparative synthesis]. AB - It is stated that regulation of the repair synthesis of DNA underlies the antimutagenic action of the polysaccharide isolated from bacteria. Protective effect of polysaccharides is also displayed. PMID- 2514342 TI - [Effect on immunological response of host by mitomycin C adsorbed into activated carbon particles (MMC-CH) in mice]. AB - Mitomycin C adsorbed onto activated carbon particles (MMC-CH) has been administered intraperitoneally for C57BL/6 mice. The weight of the spleen and thymus of the mice given MMC-CH was decreased lesser than those of the mice given mitomycin C aqueous solution (MMC-AQ). The number of peritoneal exudate cells (PEC) in the mice given MMC-AQ was decreased remarkably on 1st day after MMC-AQ administration and recovered within normal range on the 7th day. On the other hand, the number of PEC in the mice given MMC-CH was increased remarkably on the 1st day and then gradually decreased to normal range on the 7th day. Reactivity of spleen cells by Con A was inhibited in the spleen cells from the mice given MMC-AQ more than those from the mice given MMC-CH. Fifth percent lethal dose was 8.0mg/kg in the mice given MMC-AQ, and 18.2mg/kg in the mice given MMC-CH. PMID- 2514343 TI - [Estrogen dependent plasminogen activator in breast cancer cells; experimental and clinical studies]. AB - Hormonal regulation of plasminogen activator (PA) in rat mammary tumor induced by 7,12-dimethylbenz (a) anthracene (DMBA) was studied both in vivo and in vitro. PA activity in DMBA-tumor was markedly decreased by ovariectomy, and recovered in a dose-dependent fashion upon estradiol administration. This estrogen-stimulated production of the enzyme was prevented by actinomycin D, cycloheximide and tamoxifen. Furthermore DMBA-tumor cells in primary culture displayed similar estrogen-dependency toward the production of the enzyme without any cell proliferation. This indicates that estrogen might regulate de novo synthesis of PA at a transcriptional level via an estrogen receptor system, and that this hormone might support the growth of DMBA-tumor into adjacent tissues by inducing PA in a direct manner via a route distinct from a prolactin pathway. To examine whether PA reflects the functional state of estrogen receptors in human breast cancer, the enzyme activities were determined in extracts prepared from 160 breast cancer specimens and compared on qualitative and quantitative bases with the levels of steroid receptors. The results strongly suggest that PA can be used as an effective functional marker for hormone dependence in human breast cancer. PMID- 2514344 TI - Defects in the nutrient-dependent methylation of a membrane-associated protein in spo mutants of Bacillus subtilis. AB - Methylation of a membrane-associated protein with an apparent molecular mass of 40,000 daltons has been observed in Bacillus subtilis. The methylation was nutrient dependent and occurred with a doubling time of 4 +/- 1 min. In wild-type strains, the half-life of turnover of the methyl group(s) was 17 +/- 6 min. Several isogenic strains of B. subtilis containing spo0 mutations (spo0A and spo0H) were found to be normal in glutamate-dependent methylation of the protein and turnover of the methyl group(s). In strains containing spo0B and spo0E mutations, the methyl group(s) were incorporated in response to glutamate addition but turnover was not at a normal rate. The half-life of methyl group turnover was extended to 45 +/- 3 min in these strains. In a spo0K mutant and in spoIIJ and spoIIF mutants, the protein was not significantly methylated. The methylation of a 40,000 dalton protein was also found to be dependent on phosphate. This methylation was observed in wild-type and spo0A and spo0H strains with a doubling time of 4 +/- 1 min and a half-life of turnover of the methyl group(s) of 11 +/- 3 min. In strains containing spo0B, spo0E, and spo0F mutations, the phosphate-dependent incorporation of the methyl group(s) was normal (5 +/- 1 min) but the turnover half-life was extended to 46 +/- 8 min. It is not known whether the nitrogen-dependent and phosphate-dependent systems methylated the same protein.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514345 TI - Conversion and reciprocal exchange between tandem repeats in Drosophila melanogaster. AB - We have developed an experimental system to assay conversion and reciprocal exchange between tandem repeats in Drosophila melanogaster. In this system, the recombining markers map 0.76 kb apart within the Adh gene, and the length of the repeated unit is 4.75 kb. Our results provide a preliminary record of germline frequencies of gene conversion and unequal exchange between these markers. Conversions involving dispersed repeats were not observed, and may be less frequent. This work demonstrates that conversion takes place at an appreciable frequency between tandem repeats in metazoan germline. It confirms that gene conversion can mediate homogenization of reiterated sequences in higher eukaryotes. PMID- 2514346 TI - Mouse growth-hormone-releasing hormone: precursor structure and expression in brain and placenta. AB - To pursue questions concerning the regulation of somatic growth in a species amenable to both genetics and germ-line manipulation, we have isolated and characterized a full-length cDNA clone encoding mouse GH-releasing hormone (mGHRH). A GHRH cDNA clone isolated from a mouse placental library contains an open-reading frame of 309 basepairs that predicts a 103 amino acid mouse GHRH precursor protein. The mature mouse GHRH is predicted to be 42 amino acids with a free carboxyl-terminus. Although the mGHRH precursor sequence is clearly related to those determined for rat and human, the mature mGHRH peptide differs at seven of its 42 positions from all previously characterized GHRH peptides. RNA blot analysis of mouse tissues indicates that the mature 750 nucleotide mGHRH mRNA is found in hypothalamus and placenta, while testis contains a larger GHRH-related transcript. In situ hybridization analysis of GHRH gene expression in the mouse brain indicates that GHRH mRNA is localized predominantly to the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus. In the placenta, GHRH mRNA levels are developmentally regulated and peak on days 16-17 of gestation. GHRH mRNA is localized predominantly to trophoblast giant cells and to cytotrophoblasts of the placental labyrinth. PMID- 2514347 TI - Regulation of pro-gonadotropin-releasing hormone gene expression by sex steroids in the brain of male and female rats. AB - The fine modulation of gonadotropin gene expression and secretion is well recognized to be regulated by sex steroids through their direct action both at the anterior pituitary level and on the pulsatile pattern of GnRH secretion at the hypothalamic level. Since the influence of sex steroids on hypothalamic GnRH mRNA levels remains to be elucidated, quantitative in situ hybridization was used to study the effect of sex steroids on cellular levels of pro-GnRH mRNA in adult rats of both sexes. The effects of 14-day gonadectomy as well as administration of 17 beta-estradiol (E2, 0.25 micrograms) or dihydrotestosterone (DHT, 100 micrograms) twice a day during 14 days to gonadectomized animals were evaluated. In addition, the effect of progesterone (P, 2 mg, twice daily) alone or in the presence of E2 was also studied in ovariectomized animals. Hybridization was performed using a 35S-labeled cDNA probe encoding rat pro-GnRH and the corresponding mRNA levels were assessed by counting the number of silver grains overlying labeled neurons. In male rats, castration induced a highly significant 65% increase (compared to intact rats) in the mean number of grains per neuron. Administration of E2 or DHT to castrated animals completely prevented the post castration rise in pro-GnRH mRNA levels. In female animals, the effect of ovariectomy was less striking than in the male, a 25% increase (P less than 0.001) being observed. Treatment with E2 or DHT also completely prevented the increase in pro-GnRH mRNA levels induced by ovariectomy. Moreover, treatment with P in ovariectomized animals markedly potentiated the inhibitory effect of E2 on pro-GnRH mRNA levels.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514348 TI - Calcium regulation of prolactin gene expression: opposing effects of extracellular CaCl2 and Ca2+ ionophores. AB - Previous studies have demonstrated that the high basal level of transcription of the rat PRL gene in pituitary tumor GH3 cells is dependent on [CA2+]e. In the present study, we have extended these findings by examining the effects of the Ca2+ ionophores, A23187 and ionomycin, on [Ca2+]i, and on PRL mRNA levels and glucose-regulated protein (GRP) mRNA levels in GH3 cells cultured in a low Ca2+, serum-free medium (SFM). Using digital imaging microscopy of individual Fura 2 loaded GH3 cells in SFM plus 0.4 mM CaCl2, extranuclear and nuclear [Ca2+] were both about 70 nM. Addition of 600 nM ionomycin increased these levels by 10-fold within minutes, and by about 45-fold after 120 min. As previously published, addition of 0.4 mM CaCl2 to GH3 cells cultured in SFM significantly increased PRL mRNA, and had little or no effect on GRP78 and GRP94 mRNA after 16 h. Addition of 0.4 mM CaCl2 plus 100 nM A23187 significantly increased GRP78 and GRP94 mRNA. Surprisingly, the Ca2+ ionophore significantly inhibited PRL gene expression below that obtained in 0.4 mM CaCl2 without A23187. This same pattern of stimulation of GRP78 gene expression, but inhibition of PRL gene expression, was observed with 125 and 600 nM ionomycin. Both Ca2+ ionophores had no effect on histone 3 mRNA, and A23187 depressed PRL gene expression at a concentration (50 nM) that did not affect protein synthesis. Although A23187 reproducibly lowered PRL mRNA levels, it slightly inhibited its degradation in cells in which RNA synthesis was blocked by actinomycin D.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514349 TI - Developmental and physiological regulation of aldose reductase mRNA expression in renal medulla. AB - Aldose reductase (AR), an enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of glucose to sorbitol, has been implicated in the pathogenesis of many of the complications of diabetes mellitus, but its normal physiological function in various tissues remains uncertain. It has been suggested that in the kidney, sorbitol production may be an important cellular protection against medullary intersitital hypertonicity. Using in situ and Northern hybridization analyses, we found that at the time of birth, AR mRNA expression in the kidney was very low and seen only in the papilla. By 12 days of age, at about the time a corticopapillary osmotic gradient and the capacity for urinary concentration have developed, a striking increase in renal AR mRNA levels was seen. It was confined to the inner medulla and was characterized by a dramatic gradient of expression paralleling the corticopapillary osmotic gradient. Levels of expression were somewhat lower in adults, but showed the same inner medullary boundary and gradient. Under these hybridization and exposure conditions, no AR transcripts were detected in the outer medulla or cortex. Homozygous Brattleboro rats with congenital diabetes insipidus have relatively dilute corticopapillary osmotic gradients, and their level of medullary AR mRNA was significantly lower than that of controls. Conversely, normal rats made hyperosmotic and, hence, antidiuretic by salt loading showed a large increase in medullary AR mRNA. These changes in renal medullary AR gene expression in correlation with changes in medullary tonicity support the hypothesis that renal AR plays a role in cellular adaption to osmotic stress and suggest that local medullary osmolarity may regulate the level of AR gene expression. PMID- 2514350 TI - Developmental and physiological pattern of aldose reductase mRNA expression in lens and retina. AB - Aldose reductase (AR), an enzyme which converts glucose to sorbitol, has been implicated in the pathogenesis of diabetic cataracts and retinopathy. The normal physiological role of this enzyme in ocular tissue, however, remains unclear. In a developmental study in the rat using in situ and Northern hybridization analyses, we have found that there is a high level of AR mRNA expression in optic cup and lens as early as embryonic day 13. Serial sections through whole embryos at this stage showed that the eye was the only site of AR mRNA hybridization. Levels of AR mRNA declined in the retina as differentiation proceeded and were very sparse there postnatally. As lens development progressed, epithelial AR mRNA levels remained high, especially in the germinative zone, which is the source of the cells that will become lens fibers, and in the bow region, where these cells undergo a dramatic morphogenetic differentiation into lens fibers. AR mRNA was undetectable in terminally differentiated lens fibers. Since it has been suggested that AR-catalyzed sorbitol production could be an osmoprotective device of lens epithelium during systemic hyperosmolar stress, AR mRNA levels from dehydrated hyperosmolar rats were compared with euvolemic control values, and no difference was found. In summary, AR appears to be of particular importance in the development of the eye, with its retinal role receding relative to lens as differentiation is completed. A continued high level of expression in lens epithelium in adulthood may be explained by the fact that lens tissue, unlike retina, normally continues to proliferate and differentiate after birth. The temporal and spatial pattern of distribution of AR mRNA is strongly suggestive of a role for this enzyme in lens fiber morphogenesis. PMID- 2514351 TI - Properties of the blood group LW glycoprotein and preliminary comparison with Rh proteins. AB - The major component immunoprecipitated from human red cell membranes by murine monoclonal antibodies (BS46 and BS56) against the LW blood group antigens is a 42,000 mol. wt glycoprotein. Upon digestion by an N-glycanase the LW component migrated as a 25,000 mol. wt component on SDS gels, whereas treatment by an O glycanase led only to a small size reduction (2000). These data suggest that the LW glycoprotein might carry approximately eight to nine N-linked sugar chains and only a few (one or two) O-linked oligosaccharide chains. A minor component of 31,000 mol. wt was also identified in the LW immunoprecipitate. Preliminary analyses by two-dimensional peptide mapping indicate that the 31,000 mol. wt polypeptide is identical to authentic Rh proteins, therefore raising the possibility that the Rh and LW antigens are associated in the membrane as a functional complex called Rh cluster. Since the N-deglycosylated form of the LW and RhD proteins have different sizes (25,000 vs 31,000-32,000 respectively) and since their externally 125I-labelled domains have different two-dimensional peptide maps, it is concluded that LW is probably not a simple glycosylated form of the Rh proteins. PMID- 2514352 TI - Regulation of microM vs microS mRNA expression in an inducible B cell line. AB - During the course of B lymphocyte differentiation into immunoglobulin secreting cells the abundance of mRNA for the heavy chain of secreted IgM (microS) increases dramatically. In order to understand the regulatory events responsible for the selective increase in micS mRNA we have looked for transcriptional alterations of VDJC mu gene segments as well as changes in the relative stability of microM and microS mRNA in BCL1 lymphoma cells which can be stimulated to increase the expression of microS mRNA. These experiments showed that although the transcriptional level of the mu gene locus is not preferentially augmented after stimulation, an alteration in the sites of polymerase termination is a significant factor contributing to the higher microS to microM ratio. This switch is dependent on new RNA synthesis. In addition, although the half-life of microS mRNA is not selectively increased, stimulation of the cells does result in a specific enhancement of the half-lives of both species of mu mRNA, which accounts for the higher steady state levels of total mu message. PMID- 2514353 TI - [Reversible cor pulmonale in central disorder of respiratory regulation]. AB - Irreversible increase of pulmonary vascular resistance is a well known complication of chronic hypoxemia. In our 12 months old patient a central ventilation disorder caused severe hypoxemia and hypercapnea at sleep. With 9 months of age pulmonary hypertension was found echocardiographically and was verified by catheterization. Massive increase of pulmonary vascular resistance was measured. A controlled oxygen therapy normalized oxygen partial pressure at sleep, and a rapid regression of the echocardiographic signs of pulmonary hypertension became evident. However, the central ventilation disorder was not significantly influenced. PMID- 2514354 TI - [Hypophyseal microprolactinoma as a cause of delayed puberty]. AB - Hyperprolactinaemic hypogonadism in adults is a well defined disease with clinical symptoms like ovarian hypofunction or amenorrhea and galactorrhea in females and loss of sexual activity in males. In pediatrics this special form of hypogonadism is almost unknown. Typical manifestation is delay in puberty or pubertal arrest. We describe a 20 year old man with signs of delay of puberty. Endocrinological work-up revealed a decreased pulse frequency of luteinizing hormone resulting in pathologically low testosterone concentrations. The final cause of hypothalamic hypogonadism was a prolactin producing pituitary microadenoma. During long-term treatment with a dopaminergic drug the elevated prolactin levels decreased to the normal range and testicular function normalized as shown by growth of the testes and increasing testosterone levels. PMID- 2514355 TI - Protein changes in bovine lymphoblastoid cells induced by infection with the intracellular parasite Theileria parva. AB - Protein and glycoprotein changes induced in bovine lymphoblasts by infection with Theileria parva were analyzed by high-resolution two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. Uninfected and infected cloned bovine T and B lymphoblasts were biosynthetically labeled with [35S]methionine and their two-dimensional autoradiographic patterns were compared with each other and with the pattern obtained using purified labeled schizonts. Ten proteins were found in infected cells which were not present in uninfected cells, and seven of these were detected in preparations of purified schizonts. Four glycoproteins were detected on the surface of infected cells labeled with [3H]borohydride while a major glycoprotein present on uninfected cells disappeared or was reduced in infected cells. Other minor changes in protein and glycoprotein patterns were also observed. PMID- 2514357 TI - Serum lipoprotein and Trypanosoma brucei brucei interactions in vitro. AB - Trypanosoma brucei brucei IL3201 and IL3202, which are dependent on serum high or low-density lipoproteins to multiply under axenic culture conditions, acquired lipoprotein-associated 3H-lipids without binding, accumulating or degrading apolipoproteins. Uptake by the T. b. brucei of lipoprotein-associated [1 alpha, 2 alpha(n)-3H]cholesterol, [1 alpha, 2 alpha(n)-3H]cholesteryl linoleate, [1 alpha, 2 alpha(n)-3H]cholesteryl oleoyl ether and L-3-phosphatidyl [N-methyl-3H]choline, 1,2-dipalmitoyl, occurred at 37 degrees C but not at 0 degree C, and tended towards saturation with increasing concentrations of 3H-lipid-labelled lipoproteins in the incubation mixture. The uptake processes did not discriminate between high- or low-density lipoproteins, did not require exogenous divalent ions and were not inhibited by the presence of acidotropic agents (chloroquine, ammonium chloride) in the incubation mixture. Uptake by T. b. brucei of lipoprotein cholesterol was likely to result mainly from desorption and diffusion processes, whereas specific binding sites were probably involved in the uptake by T. b. brucei of lipoprotein cholesteryl linoleate, cholesteryl oleoyl ether and possibly phosphatidylcholine. Exponentially growing T. b. brucei hydrolysed cholesteryl linoleate to cholesterol and had only a small capacity to reesterify cholesterol, whereas committed non-dividing stumpy form T. b. brucei had a large capacity to esterify cholesterol. Conversion products of phosphatidylcholine were generated during or after uptake of this phospholipid by exponentially growing T. b. brucei. PMID- 2514356 TI - Characterization of cDNA clones coding for muscle tropomyosin of the nematode Trichostrongylus colubriformis. AB - The host-protective antigen from detergent-solubilised extracts of the sheep intestinal helminth Trichostrongylus colubriformis has been identified as tropomyosin. Complementary DNA clones coding for T. colubriformis muscle tropomyosin have been isolated and characterised as the first step in obtaining recombinant protein to carry out more extensive vaccination trials. The clones represent an mRNA of 1544 bases, including a relatively long 5' untranslated sequence of 307 bases and a 3' non-coding region of 344 bases. The mRNA codes for a highly alpha-helical protein of 284 residues with a molecular weight of 33,000; characteristics typically observed for the muscle tropomyosins of higher organisms. The T. colubriformis protein has 58% sequence identity with rabbit and Drosophila melanogaster muscle tropomyosins, and the differences in the protein sequence are randomly distributed throughout the molecule. There is complete identity between the three sequences for the N-terminal 9 residues, the region believed to be essential for the polymerisation of tropomyosin molecules and for binding to actin and troponin. PMID- 2514359 TI - Pharmacology and toxicology of amphetamine and related designer drugs. PMID- 2514358 TI - [Determination of residues of organochlorine insecticides and polychlorinated biphenyls in cereals, feeds and water]. AB - A semimicro method for the quantitative determination of chloro-organic insecticides (COI) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) in cereals, feed-pellets and water is presented. The extraction of the active compounds is carried out with n-hexane or dichloromethane. The extracts of cereals and pellets are purified by column chromatography with aluminum oxide. A silicagel column is used for the separation of the compounds into COI as well as PCB and hexachlorobenzene. The determination of the active compounds is carried out by gas chromatography using an electron capture detector. Recoveries range between 70 and 108%, except for beta-endosulphan. PMID- 2514360 TI - Neurochemical mechanisms involved in behavioral effects of amphetamines and related designer drugs. AB - The motor activation produced by psychomotor stimulants has been long associated with the midbrain dopamine systems. While focused stereotyped behavior produced by high doses of indirect sympathomimetics is blocked by removal of dopamine terminals in the corpus striatum (Creese and Iversen 1975), the locomotor activation produced by low doses of indirect sympathomimetics is blocked by removal of dopamine terminals in the region of the nucleus accumbens (Kelly et al. 1975). This dopaminergic substrate for psychostimulant effects appears selective for the indirect sympathomimetics in that dopamine lesions to the region of the nucleus accumbens do not block caffeine, scopolamine, heroin, or CSF-induced locomotor activation (Swerdlow and Koob 1985; Vaccarino et al. 1986). The neurochemical sites for psychomotor stimulant reward are likely to be the presynaptic dopamine terminals located in the region of the nucleus accumbens, frontal cortex, and other forebrain structures that originate in the ventral tegmental area. Note, however, that intracranial self-administration of cocaine is elicited from the frontal cortex, but not from the nucleus accumbens (Goeders and Smith 1983). Thus, concomitant activation of structures other than the nucleus accumbens may be an important part of the circuitry involved in initiation of cocaine intravenous self-administration, as has been hypothesized for the opiates (Smith and Lane 1983; Smith et al. 1982). In addition, these neuropharmacological studies provide evidence to show that, in the rat, the neural/neurochemical substrates for processing the reinforcing and stimulant properties of psychomotor stimulants may be similar, if not identical. Parallel manipulations using dopamine receptor antagonists and 6-OHDA lesions produce parallel results. How far this parallelism continues in further processing is under current investigation; however, such an overlap brings additional impetus to earlier hypotheses relating reinforcement and motor function (Glickman and Schiff 1967). The motor activation produced by MDMA and MDE has similarities to classic psychostimulants, but also some important differences. In the BPM system, the stimulant-like properties of these drugs were reflected in significant increases in horizontal locomotor activity measured across a wide dose range. Interestingly, medium to high doses of MDMA or MDE produced a transient decrease in horizontal locomotion for the first 10 minutes, followed by a sustained increase. The increase in holepokes and rearings that typically accompanies the increase in ambulation seen with amphetamine itself or other indirect sympathomimetics (Geyer et al. 1986) was not observed with MDMA or MDE.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2514361 TI - Neuronal actions of amphetamine in the rat brain. PMID- 2514362 TI - Methamphetamine and related drugs: toxicity and resulting behavioral changes in response to pharmacological probes. PMID- 2514363 TI - Role of dopamine in the neurotoxicity induced by amphetamines and related designer drugs. PMID- 2514365 TI - Effects of neurotoxic amphetamines on serotonergic neurons: immunocytochemical studies. PMID- 2514364 TI - Pharmacologic profile of amphetamine derivatives at various brain recognition sites: selective effects on serotonergic systems. AB - Ring-substituted psychoactive derivatives of amphetamine exhibited high affinities for a number of serotonin recognition sites. Derivatives of 2,5-DMA exhibited preferential high affinity at 5-HT2 serotonin receptors when compared to their relative affinities at 5-HT1 serotonin receptors. Furthermore, 2,5-DMA derivatives exhibited agonist-like binding characteristics at 5-HT2 serotonin receptors with the R(-) isomer being the more potent isomer. There were significant correlations between the in vitro affinities of 2,5-DMA derivatives at 5-HT2 serotonin receptors and their human hallucinogenic potencies as well as with their potencies in behavioral generalization studies, suggesting the importance of 5-HT2 serotonin receptors in mediating the hallucinogenic effects of the various 2,5-DMA derivatives. A pharmacological profile of the methylenedioxy-substituted amphetamine derivatives indicates that MDMA and MDA exhibited highest affinity for serotonin uptake sites, 5-HT2 serotonin, alpha 2 adrenergic and M-1 muscarinic receptors. The methylenedioxy amphetamine derivatives exhibited an inverse stereospecificity with respect to serotonin uptake sites versus postsynaptic 5-HT receptors with the S(+) isomer being more potent at the presynaptic recognition site, while the R(-) isomer was more potent at the postsynaptic recognition sites. Similar to the 2,5-DMA derivatives, MDMA and MDA exhibited agonist-like binding characteristics at 5-HT2 serotonin receptors. Unlike 2,5-DMA derivatives, MDMA and MDA demonstrated little selectivity for 5-HT2 versus 5-HT1 subtypes of receptors. The relatively weak hallucinogenic effects of the methylenedioxy-substituted amphetamine derivatives (when compared to the 2,5-DMA derivatives) may be mediated through actions at 5 HT2 serotonin receptors. In addition, the neurotoxic, psychotomimetic, analgesic, temperature regulation, and mood-altering effects of MDMA and other methylenedioxy-substituted derivatives may be mediated, in part, through their actions at other serotonin recognition sites in brain, including serotonin uptake sites and 5-HT1A serotonin receptors. Other behavioral, cardiovascular, and toxic effects of MDMA and related derivatives may be mediated by actions at other central and/or peripheral recognition sites, including muscarinic cholinergic receptors and alpha 2-adrenergic receptors, for which these compounds exhibit relatively high affinity. The precise mechanisms for the various effects of the amphetamine derivatives remain to be determined. PMID- 2514366 TI - Self-injection in baboons of amphetamines and related designer drugs. PMID- 2514367 TI - Recommendations for future research on amphetamines and related designer drugs. PMID- 2514368 TI - Amphetamines: aggressive and social behavior. AB - Clinical case reports and survey data point to incidences of intense violence in certain individuals self-administering high doses of amphetamine via the intravenous route. It is unclear how common this amphetamine effect is, what circumstances promote its occurrence, and which characteristics predispose an individual to exhibit this effect. Amphetamine may engender a dose-dependent biphasic effect on aggressive behavior in experimental situations, both with human and animal subjects, as, for example, in subjects that have habituated to an aggression-provoking stimulus. Most often, however, amphetamines disrupt social, sexual, maternal, and aggressive behavior patterns in a dose-dependent manner; neither tolerance nor sensitization appears to develop to these disruptive effects. Amphetamine consistently enhances defensive and flight reactions in various experimental situations and animal species. This effect appears to be mediated by brain dopaminergic systems. So far, no dopaminergic, noradrenergic, or opioid antagonists have been found that attenuate, reverse, or prevent the disruptive effects of amphetamines on social and aggressive behavior. The evidence from opioid-withdrawn subjects strongly suggests a profound modulatory influence by opioid peptides on the aggression-altering effects of amphetamines. PMID- 2514370 TI - Nurses' homes: bastions of dated values. PMID- 2514369 TI - "Medicare Catastrophic Coverage Act": application in long-term care facilities. PMID- 2514371 TI - Nursing development units: awaiting developments. PMID- 2514372 TI - Independent learning. PMID- 2514373 TI - Elderly care: a caring home. PMID- 2514374 TI - Breast reconstruction. PMID- 2514375 TI - In the interest of good health. PMID- 2514377 TI - The need for guided mourning. PMID- 2514376 TI - Autonomy versus bondage of hospitalised patients. PMID- 2514378 TI - A sense of fair play. PMID- 2514379 TI - How to cope with change. Part 2. PMID- 2514380 TI - Lessons from America. PMID- 2514382 TI - Clinical waste. Safety in disposal. PMID- 2514381 TI - Keeping the high-flyers. PMID- 2514383 TI - Historical perspective of Rh disease in Nebraska (1973-1982): profile of Rh negative women delivering live newborns. PMID- 2514384 TI - [Severe late dyskinesia caused by neuroleptics in a young female. Follow-up and treatment]. PMID- 2514385 TI - [Suspected convulsion-inducing effect of chloroquine (Resochin)]. PMID- 2514386 TI - Doxorubicin affects tau protein metabolism in human neuroblastoma cells. AB - The microtubule associated protein called tau, found primarily in neurons, was detected in a human neuroblastoma cell line, LAN-5. Cells treated with retinoic acid (2.0 x 10(-5) M) differentiate and acquire processes similar to neurons. Differentiated and logarithmically growing undifferentiated cells were exposed to varying doses of doxorubicin (an anthracycline chemotherapeutic antibiotic). While doxorubicin was lethal to many undifferentiated dividing cells, it was not as damaging to differentiated cells. After 2 to 4 days of doxorubicin treatment, the cells were harvested, the protein concentration determined and SDS-PAGE performed. Proteins were blotted onto nitrocellulose paper and immunostained with either a rabbit antiserum or mouse monoclonal antibody to tau. Undifferentiated LAN-5 cells treated with 4.0 x 10(-8) M doxorubicin for 4 days and cells treated with 8.0 x 10(-8) M doxorubicin for 2 days displayed a distinct lower band (just below the 50 kd marker) that was either absent or very faint in untreated controls. PMID- 2514387 TI - Evidence for lysosomal processing of amyloid beta-protein precursor in cultured cells. AB - Amyloid beta-protein precursor (ABPP) of Alzheimer's disease (AD) represents a family of proteins which includes the parent protein which generates a small (4 kD) fragment that self-assembles to form amyloid fibrils in AD. Thus, the normal and abnormal proteolysis of ABPP may be directly relevant to AD pathogenesis. We have examined the accumulation of ABPP in cultured rodent and human neuronal cell lines in the presence and absence of a battery of protease inhibitors using immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis. Here we present evidence for a lysosomal pathway for the turnover of ABPP and discuss the relevance of these results to plaque pathology and abnormal ABPP immunostaining in AD. PMID- 2514388 TI - Luteinizing-hormone-mediated precocious puberty induced in female rats by a prepuberal pituitary graft. AB - The present study analyzes the mechanism of precocious puberty induced in female rats after a 'young' pituitary graft (obtained from 21-day-old animals). For this purpose, the following experiments have been performed: (1) female rats were grafted or sham-operated on day 21 with a littermate's pituitary the follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and estradiol plasma levels as well as the ovarian, uterine and adrenal weights were determined at different times after the graft; (2) female rats grafted or sham-operated on day 21 were treated with 0.2 ml of LH antiserum (LHAS) or the same volume of a normal horse serum (NHS); (3) female rats were injected on day 1 of life with 0.1 mg of estradiol benzoate or olive oil. Groups of these animals were decapitated daily between days 6 and 21 in order to measure gonadotropins and prolactin (PRL) pituitary content. Since on day 21 estrogenized females showed decreased gonadotropin content and normal PRL content, females in experiment 4 were grafted on day 21 with pituitaries obtained from control or neonatally estrogenized female rats. The results obtained showed that FSH, LH and estradiol plasma levels as well as ovarian and uterine weights increased after pituitary grafts. LHAS blocked the precocious puberty induced by the pituitary graft, and pituitaries obtained from neonatally estrogenized female rats were unable to modify the occurrence of puberty when grafted. In conclusion, this work evidences that precocious puberty induced by 'young' pituitary grafts was mediated by the increase in LH secretion from the graft. PMID- 2514389 TI - Biochemical and ultrastructural approaches to the onset of the pineal melatonin rhythm in the rat. AB - To determine the pineal gland content of melatonin during rat development and the onset of the circadian rhythm, a biochemical and ultrastructural experimental model was designed. Body and pineal gland weights and DNA and protein contents of the pineal glands increased rapidly during ontogenic development. No significant differences in the values of these parameters were observed when the data were obtained during the day or at night. Pineal melatonin content as expressed by pineal gland or by micrograms of DNA, was very small in 21-day-old fetuses and 5- and 10-day-old suckling rats and the values determined were similar for both day and night. However, in 20-day-old suckling and adult rats higher melatonin concentrations and significant differences between the values obtained during the day and at night were observed. The onset of the circadian melatonin rhythm coincided with the time at which the components involved in melatonin synthesis reached adult levels and pinealocytes adopted an adult morphological appearance as observed with the electron microscope. These results indicate that the appearance of a circadian melatonin rhythm in the rat pineal gland is delayed until the end of the suckling period, although the transfer of melatonin from the mother to the pups may be important for postnatal reproductive and somatic development. PMID- 2514390 TI - An early pineal-induced suppression of pituitary prolactin mRNA levels in light deprived male hamsters. AB - Light deprivation by blinding or exposure to short photoperiod results in depressed prolactin (PRL) cell activity and gonadal regression in the male Syrian hamster after at least 42-56 days of treatment, and both of these events can be prevented if pineal removal accompanies light deprivation. In the present study, we investigated changes in PRL cell activity after 11, 21, or 42 days of blinding by measuring changes in: (1) pituitary PRL mRNA levels; (2) newly synthesized pituitary PRL, and (3) pituitary-RIA-PRL. The purpose of this study was to characterize the early (i.e. prior to gonadal regression and loss of reproductive function) effects of light deprivation on PRL production in the pituitary gland of the male hamster, and to determine whether a reduction in PRL mRNA levels precedes the inhibition of PRL synthesis and storage. After 11, 21, and 42 days of blinding, PRL mRNA levels in the male hamster pituitary (relative PRL mRNA/pituitary) were significantly depressed compared to intact controls by 33, 41, and 65%, respectively. Pituitary PRL synthesis (dpm of 3H-PRL/pituitary) and RIA-PRL (micrograms PRL/pituitary) were significantly depressed (by 49 and 53%, respectively) only after 42 days of blinding. All of these statistically significant depressions were prevented when the surgical blinding procedure was accompanied by pineal removal. There were no differences in testicle, pituitary, or body weight as a result of treatment. These results support the hypothesis that light deprivation by blinding causes a pineal-dependent decline in PRL mRNA levels, which leads to a decrease in PRL synthesis and pituitary RIA-PRL. PMID- 2514391 TI - Differential effects of ketoconazole on prolactin and growth hormone release by normal and tumoral rat anterior pituitary cells in vitro. AB - The imidazole derivative ketoconazole (1-100 microM) was shown to stimulate the release of prolactin (PRL) from rat anterior pituitary cells in vitro. In contrast, this drug did not affect growth hormone (GH) release from the same cells. In addition, ketoconazole was found to have no effect on PRL or GH release from a tumoral pituitary cell clone (GH3). Treatment of normal pituitary cells with ketoconazole (10 microM) for more than 20 min abolished TRH-induced hormone release. TRH-stimulated release was both attenuated and delayed in the ketoconazole-treated tumoral cells. Ketoconazole (10 microM) did not affect the basal electrophysiological properties of GH3 cell membranes, although it did affect the TRH-induced response. The action of ketoconazole of the spontaneous release of PRL by normal cells and the TRH-stimulated release of PRL and GH is consistent with an interference with arachidonic acid metabolism. PMID- 2514392 TI - Actinomycin D affects thyrotropin-releasing hormone-induced heterogeneous forms of glycosylated thyroid-stimulating hormone in rat anterior pituitary. AB - Actinomycin D and cycloheximide were used to clarify the tight relationship between protein synthesis and heterogeneous carbohydrate synthesis of rat pituitary thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) under thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) stimulation in vitro. Rat anterior pituitaries were incubated with [3H]glucosamine in the presence of TRH, cycloheximide and actinomycin D at 37 degrees C for 3 and 6 h. The TSH fraction of pituitary homogenates was obtained using affinity chromatography coupled with anti-TSH globulin, and was analyzed by isoelectric focusing. Anterior pituitary in the presence of TRH showed heterogeneous components of [3H]glucosamine-labeled TSH with 6 different isoelectric points (components I-VI). Radioactivities of the components increased with the incubation period. Cycloheximide changed these heterogeneous components. Actinomycin D also caused a striking change in the heterogeneity of pituitary [3H]glucosamine-labeled TSH: components I and II decreased and components III and IV increased as compared to the control group after a 6-hour incubation. The present study implies that actinomycin D affects the TRH-induced heterogeneous components of pituitary TSH glycosylation. The data indicate that messenger RNA is essential for the normal processing of carbohydrate synthesis of pituitary TSH. PMID- 2514393 TI - Pituitary vasoactive intestinal peptide regulates prolactin secretion in the hypothyroid rat. AB - In this study, we demonstrated that the cell content and basal secretion of vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) in primary rat pituitary cell cultures were increased in hypothyroidism. VIP release from hypothyroid pituitary cells in vitro was stimulated by thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH 10(-8) to 10(-6) M) and growth hormone (GH)-releasing hormone (GHRH 10(-9) to 10(-8) M) but not by corticotropin-releasing hormone or luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone in concentrations up to 10(-6) M. In the presence of anti-VIP antisera, there was a significant decrease in basal prolactin secretion from cultured hypothyroid pituitary cells (p less than 0.005) indicating that VIP exerts a tonic stimulatory effect on prolactin (PRL) secretion. The increment in PRL secretion following TRH was not affected by exposure to anti-VIP indicating that PRL release after TRH is not mediated by VIP at the pituitary level. In contrast to changes in PRL, exposure to anti-VIP had no effect on basal GH secretion, indicating that the PRL changes are hormone specific. Similarly, GHRH-induced GH release was unaffected by VIP immunoneutralization. PMID- 2514394 TI - Effects of daylength on androgen metabolism and pulsatile luteinizing hormone secretion in male golden hamsters. AB - In an effort to understand the potential neuroendocrine mechanisms underlying photoperiodic control of fertility in seasonally breeding species, we monitored the intracellular processing and nuclear uptake of [1 alpha, 2 alpha 3H]testosterone (3H-T) within the brain-pituitary complex as well as the patterns of episodic luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion in male golden hamsters exposed to long day (14 h light:10 h dark) and short day (10 h light:14 h dark) photoperiods. Target tissue specific patterns of nuclear 3H-androgens and estrogens were observed in castrated, T-replaced hamsters exposed to long and short days for 7 weeks or longer. Significantly, 3H-T metabolism or receptor mediated nuclear uptake in the hamsters in short days was not influenced in any manner that would explain their increased responsiveness to androgen feedback suppression of LH release. Comparable patterns of episodic LH secretion were observed in acutely catheterized hamsters castrated for 7 weeks prior to exposure to 8 weeks of long or short days. Similar patterns were also observed in animals maintained in long days and castrated 1 or 2 weeks prior to blood collection. However, such a pattern was not seen in acutely castrated hamsters maintained in the short-day photoperiod. The data suggest that steroid-independent mechanisms play an important role in suppressing gonadotropin release in short days in this species. However, such mechanisms appear to be most effective when the animals are or have recently been exposed to circulating androgens. PMID- 2514395 TI - Innervation of the pars intermedia and control of alpha-melanotropin secretion in the newt. AB - In this study we have investigated the presence of nerve fibers containing dopamine, thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) and neuropeptide Y (NPY) in the pars intermedia of the crested newt and we have examined the possible effect of these neurohormones on the release of alpha-melanotropin (alpha-MSH) by neurointermediate lobes in vitro. By means of immunohistochemistry, we observed the presence of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-immunoreactive fibers in the pars intermedia of the crested newt. Using a specific antiserum to dopamine, these fibers appeared to be mainly dopaminergic in nature. Unlike anurans, urodele amphibians do not exhibit TRH or NPY-like immunoreactivity in the pars intermedia. A perifusion system technique for newt pituitaries was developed to investigate the effect of dopamine, TRH and NPY on alpha-MSH secretion. Administration of increasing concentrations of dopamine (from 10(-9) to 10(-5)M) induced a dose-related inhibition of alpha-MSH release. This inhibitory effect was mimicked by the dopamine agonist apomorphine (10(-6)M). In contrast, the secretory activity of the newt pars intermedia was not affected by administration of synthetic TRH or NPY (up to 10(-7) and 10(-6)M, respectively). These results indicate that the neurotransmitter dopamine likely plays a pivotal role in the regulation of melanotropin secretion in urodele amphibians. PMID- 2514396 TI - Lidocaine inhibits dispersed anterior pituitary cell thyrotropin and prolactin secretion induced by thyrotropin-releasing hormone or high medium potassium. AB - Lidocaine at a concentration greater than or equal to 0.1 mM inhibited thyrotropin (TSH) and prolactin (PRL) secretion by perifused acutely dispersed rat adenohypophyseal cells stimulated by 10-100 microM thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) or 30 mM K+. The concentration of lidocaine required for half maximal inhibition of TSH and PRL secretion was approximately 1 and 0.5 mM, respectively. Maximal lidocaine inhibition of TRH-induced secretion was induced within 15 min and a normal response to these secretagogues returned within 20 min after removal of lidocaine from the perifusion medium. The inhibition of secretion by lidocaine may be caused by blocking depolarization of the cell membrane and depressing intracellular calcium mobilization and calcium influx across the plasma membrane. PMID- 2514397 TI - Exogenous triiodothyronine lowers thyrotropin-releasing hormone concentrations in the specific hypothalamic nucleus (paraventricular) involved in thyrotropin regulation and also in posterior nucleus. AB - Recent evidence indicates that thyroid hormones can regulate thyrotropin secretion in vivo in part by inhibiting thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) secretion itself. Therefore, to explore whether triiodothyronine (T3) interacts with the specific hypothalamic area involved in thyrotropin (TSH) secretory regulation, the paraventricular nucleus (PVN), Palkovitz micropunches from eight nuclear regions were obtained from 1,000-microns frozen coronal brain slices for immunoassay determinations of TRH. Rats were treated either with parenteral L-T3 for 6 days to induce experimental thyrotoxicosis, or 0.15 M saline. The induction of thyrotoxicosis was confirmed by demonstrating that mean plasma TSH concentrations fell from 108 to less than 10 microU/ml (p less than 0.01). TRH concentrations in the PVN were reduced concomitantly after L-T3 from 1.9 to 1.1 ng/mg protein (p less than 0.05). No reductions in TRH concentrations during T3 treatment occurred in other nuclear groupings except in the posterior hypothalamic nucleus. Total TRH content in the median eminence declined also in T3-treated animals from 1.77 to 1.29 ng, representing a 32% reduction (p less than 0.01). No significant change was seen in the median eminence content of the TRH structurally related dipeptide, cyclo(His-Pro). The data herein indicate that experimental thyrotoxicosis in the rat is associated with a selective reduction in TRH concentrations in the PVN, documenting T3 effects upon hypothalamic TRH metabolism per se. PMID- 2514398 TI - N-methyl-aspartic acid lesions of the arcuate nucleus in adult C57BL/6J mice: a new model for age-related lengthening of the estrous cycle. AB - We report a new effect of the excitotoxin N-methyl-aspartic acid (NMA) on adult mice. Besides confirming cell loss in the arcuate nucleus of animals treated as adults, we also observed lengthened estrous cycles. Cycling female C57BL/6J mice were treated with subcutaneous injections of NMA and estrous cycles monitored for 30 days. NMA treatment lengthened average estrous cycle length by 1 day, to 5.6 days. The elongated cycles were due to an increase in the frequency of 5- and 6 day cycles at the expense of 4-day cycles. This effect was observed in mice aged 4 and 7 months; however, 10-month-old mice had irregular cycles and a higher mortality rate following NMA, which precluded cycle analysis. NMA caused a region specific 30-45% cell loss in the rostral portions of the arcuate nucleus; no cell loss was detected in the adjacent ventromedial nucleus. Possible neuronal substates for NMA lesions, as analyzed by in vitro receptor autoradiography for glutamate receptor subtypes, include a high density of kainate receptors in the arcuate nucleus; there was little specific binding of ligands to NMDA and quisqualate receptors. Consistent with the regional pattern of cell loss, little specific binding of any glutamatergic ligand was observed in the VMN. NMA caused weight gain in all age groups. Serum LH and PRL were unaffected by NMA. The transition from 4-day to 5- and 6-day estrous cycles produced by NMA treatment mimics the early age-related changes in estrous cycle patterns in rodents. This new model will be useful in analyzing the contributions of neuroendocrine changes in the arcuate nucleus to reproductive senescence. PMID- 2514399 TI - Motor control in childhood onset dopa-responsive dystonia (Segawa syndrome). AB - To elucidate the pathophysiological features of childhood onset dopa-responsive dystonia (DRD) we used a variety of quantitative analysis techniques to evaluate aspects of reflex- and voluntary motor control in two brothers with this disorder. The observed patterns were compared with those obtained in patients with adult onset Parkinson's disease (PD) and Huntington's disease (HD). In both brothers onset of the disease was in the first decade. Both responded either to treatment with L-Dopa or a combination of L-Dopa with trihexiphenidyl. Neurophysiological studies revealed slowing of different upper extremity voluntary motor activities and a low frequency postural tremor similar to results in other basal ganglia disorders including PD. In contrast to adult onset PD, fastest isometric voluntary index finger contractions did not show the typical kinetic tremor oscillations superimposed on the force trajectories. Also, different to adult PD, no impairment of stance regulating reflexes or saccadic and smooth pursuit eye movements was found in DRD. Magnetoelectrical stimulation of motor cortex showed normal efferent cortical spinal activity. Data indicate that like in other basal ganglia diseases slowing of voluntary motor activity is also a constant feature in DRD. DRD patients show, however, a clear difference to the pattern of motor abnormalities obtainable in PD. Both the pattern of motor control abnormalities is different, and the longlasting effect. In contrast to PD the pathophysiological mechanism in DRD possibly involves a lack of maturation of dopaminergic substantia nigra neurons rather than a degenerative process. PMID- 2514400 TI - Progressive myoclonic encephalopathy in X-linked hypogamma-globulinemia. Case report, review of the literature and its relationship with progressive encephalopathy in children with A.I.D.S. AB - A 7-year-old boy suffering from X-linked hypogammaglobulinemia and progressive myoclonic encephalopathy is reported. The onset of neurological disturbances is at four years of age with ataxic gait and myoclonic jerks. The EEG shows a progressive slowing of background activity, bilateral diffuse and repetitive, pseudoperiodic, high amplitude slow waves, myoclonic jerks polygraphically documented. The CT-scan shows generalized cerebral atrophy, white matter hypodensity--principally in the frontal regions -, multiple nodular calcifications, also in the basal ganglia. Two years after the onset of neurological signs, the boy is completely bedridden, spastic, dement and blind; the myoclonic jerks persist. Finally the relationship is discussed with both the previously reported patients with the same affection, and with similar progressive encephalopathy in children suffering from A.I.D.S. PMID- 2514401 TI - Enhancement of cytokine production and natural killer activity by an Escherichia coli extract. AB - OM-89 is a bacterial extract of E. coli which is clinically used in the treatment of urinary tract infections. Since immunological mechanisms may play a role in its action, its immunological effects were evaluated in vitro on peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The results showed that OM-89 enhances natural killer activity, as well as the spontaneous production of alpha-TNF and IL2. In the presence of various mitogens, it enhanced the production of IL1, gamma-IF, alpha TNF and IL2. These data indicate that OM-89 acts on cell-mediated mechanisms by a direct and/or an indirect effect on monocytes, T cells and natural killer cells. These data suggest that the clinical activity by OM-89 may be related to its immunological properties. PMID- 2514402 TI - [Peri-articular ossification in total hip prostheses]. AB - The frequency and predisposing factors of ectopic bone formation (EBF) after total hip arthroplasty (THA) are analyzed in 6026 primary THA documented at the M.E. Mueller Foundation in Berne. Series from two clinics [the Lindenhof Clinic in Berne (n = 816) and the Wilhelm Schulthess Clinic in Zurich (n = 612)] are analyzed separately and the results compared with those in the literature. Overall EBF was found in 38.3% of the patients; in 8.6%, it was clinically obvious (grades III and IV according to the classification of Brooker et al.) and is analyzed in this study. EBF was found in 13.4% of the men compared with 4.2% of the women. The frequency of EBF was found to be particularly low in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (4.4%), and EBF was found in 11.4% of patients with post-traumatic osteoarthritis and in 11.1% with idiopathic necrosis of the femoral head. Severe preoperatively limited hip movement did not significantly increase the risk of EBF (11.9%), nor did previous hip surgery, such as intertrochanteric osteotomy (11.3%). Postoperative hematoma that led to puncture or even evacuation was responsible in 14.4%. The therapeutic and prophylactic possibilities are compared with those in the literature, and our personal observations are discussed. PMID- 2514403 TI - Identification of a small region of the v-fos gene product that is sufficient for transforming potential and growth-stimulating activity. AB - To analyze the structure-function relationship for the v-fos protein, we constructed in-frame insertion and deletion mutants of the v-fos gene carried by FBJ-MuSV, and expressed them in chicken primary cells using retrovirus vectors. We assessed the effects of these mutations on the ability of the v-fos protein to transform chicken embryo fibroblasts and to stimulate cellular proliferation of chicken neuroretinal cells. The mutant which retains only the central region of the v-fos protein (Met111-Ile206) have both activities, but the mutants which have deletions in this region, and one of the mutants that has a four amino acid insertion in it, lost both activities. The central region that is sufficient for these activities includes the evolutionarily highly conserved region among human, mouse and chicken c-fos proteins. Additionally, this sequence shares some homology with the DNA binding domain of GCN4 and c-jun protein. The truncated fos protein that contains only part of the central region is not phosphorylated in chicken embryo fibroblasts, indicating that phosphorylation of the fos protein is not necessary for the transforming activity. PMID- 2514404 TI - Variable generation of specific acquired resistance in CBA/Ca mice chronically infected with schistosomiasis mansoni. AB - Naive CBA/Ca mice and CBA/Ca mice infected 12 weeks previously with 20 normal cercariae of Schistosoma mansoni were challenged percutaneously with isotopically labelled parasites. Challenge worm migration was followed, in 5 separate experiments, by means of compressed organ autoradiography. In three experiments, 43.1% of challenge parasites did not arrive in the lungs of infected mice on day 6 as compared to 7.7% in naive controls, thereby indicating that pre-lung sites constitute the first barrier in resistance to reinfection. A further 15% of the challenge worm burden was lost in the lungs or en route to the liver in the immune animals, and portal perfusion revealed that 25.4% of the challenge was lost in the liver. Two other experiments revealed no comparable phases of pre liver attrition however; instead resistance was only evident at final perfusion on days 28 or 35. These data reveal the variable generation of specific acquired immunity in mice harbouring a chronic schistosome infection and thus clarify current discrepancies in the literature. The results are discussed in relation to documented evidence for the nature of specific and non-specific immune mechanisms reported to operate at different sites in the infection model of schistosomiasis mansoni. PMID- 2514405 TI - Schistosoma mansoni: evidence that 'non-permissiveness' in 129/Ola mice involves worm relocation and attrition in the lungs. AB - 129/Ola mice resemble WEHI 129J mice in that around 70% of the individuals in any given population resist a primary infection with Schistosoma mansoni. Squashed organ autoradiographic tracking of [75Se]selenomethionine-labelled parasites has shown that the kinetics of worm migration in 129/Ola mice follows the expected pattern, and that all rodents harbour essentially similar numbers of worms on day 14 post-infection. Combined lung and liver worm recovery techniques have revealed, however, that segregation of mice into 'permissive' and 'non permissive' individuals can first be detected on day 20. 'Non-permissive' mice are characterized by the absence of schistosome eggs at all times in the liver parenchyma and, in consequence, lack the attendant manifestations of pathology; they do, however, harbour a few stunted worms in the liver and significant numbers of adult schistosomes in the pulmonary vasculature. Histological analysis of sectioned lung tissue from such animals indicates that some lung-located schistosomes feed, pair and lay eggs. Nevertheless, eosinophil-enriched inflammatory reactions develop around such worms and the parasites themselves exhibit various manifestations of trauma, ranging from minor vacuolation to gut herniation and extrusion. The phenomenon of 'non-permissiveness' thus involves retardation of worm development in the liver and, in consequence, relocation of the parasites to the lungs, where they become subject to host effector responses. PMID- 2514406 TI - Schistosoma mansoni: evidence that vascular abnormalities correlate with the 'non permissive' trait in 129/Ola mice. AB - The pulmonary and portal vasculature of naive mice of the 129/Ola and CBA/Ca strains has been studied by means of the vasculature casting technique. This involve injection of pigmented vinylite resin into the arterial and venous systems, followed by digestion of the tissues with KOH. The peripheral vessels of the arterial and portal systems of CBA/Ca mice were numerous and highly branched. In contrast, casts prepared from 70-80% of naive 129/Ola mice showed dramatic reductions in the number and extent of the peripheral vessels. In addition, such vessels appeared severely truncated. The remaining 20-30% of naive 129/Ola mice yielded lung and liver casts that were indistinguishable from the CBA/Ca casts. Casts prepared from 129/Ola mice infected 6 weeks previously with Schistosoma mansoni cercariae showed the same segregation; faecal smears, together with observations of presence or absence of gross pathology in such mice confirmed that the vascular changes correlated with the 'non-permissive trait'. We propose that such alterations facilitate the reportedly abnormal migration of schistosomes from the liver to the lungs in 'non-permissive' 129/Ola mice. PMID- 2514407 TI - Portal shunting and resistance to Schistosoma mansoni in 129 strain mice. AB - The integrity of the hepatic portal vasculature was examined, relative to the resistance to Schistosoma mansoni observed in 68% of 129/Ola mice. The passage of microspheres to the lungs, following their injection via the superior mesenteric vein, indicated the presence of shunts in the majority of both naive and infected mice. There was a negative association between shunting of microspheres to the lungs and paucity of liver worms at 28/35 days post-infection. Schistosomula accumulated in the livers of resistant mice at a slower rate than in susceptible animals, and after day 21 relocated to the lungs. Many lung schistosomula injected via the superior mesenteric passed immediately to the lungs; the shunts thus greatly reduce the probability of trapping in the liver. Some parasites migrated back from the lungs, successfully lodged in the liver and began to feed on blood. Latex infusion demonstrated the location of large intrahepatic connections between the portal and hepatic veins. We suggest that as these liver worms grow, migrating upstream into progressively larger vessels, they reach the connections, pass out of the hepatic portal system, and relocate to the lungs. The presence of the natural shunts thus accounts for the resistant status of the mice. PMID- 2514408 TI - Properties of phenol oxidase in Fasciola gigantica. AB - Phenol oxidase of Fasciola gigantica exists both as the soluble form as well as the membrane-bound form. The membrane-bound enzyme is considered to be a tyrosinase type because it is capable of oxidizing mono- and diphenol and is inefficient in oxidizing paraphenols. The soluble enzyme is a laccase type showing more affinity to various diphenols and paraphenols. Membrane-bound enzyme exists as isoenzymes, showing 3 fractions, of which the slow-moving fraction is capable of oxidizing both 4-methyl catechol and catechol, whereas the two remaining fractions are specific to 4-methyl catechol only. Soluble enzyme exists as a single homogeneous form showing affinity to both mono- and diphenols. Inhibition of the enzyme by potassium iodide and mercuric chloride indicates the active tyrosyl and SH groups of the enzyme. Inhibition of the enzyme by sodium diethyl dithiocarbamate and phenyl thiourea indicates that copper is the prosthetic group of the enzyme. PMID- 2514409 TI - [Clinico-diagnostic characteristics of autoimmune thyroiditis in children]. AB - As many as 174 children (152 with autoimmune thyroiditis, 12 with thyroid diseases of non-autoimmune genesis and 10 with diffuse toxic goiter) underwent clinical and laboratory examinations with a purpose of delineating the clinical course and comparative assessments of the methods applied in the diagnosis of autoimmune thyroiditis. High risk for the disease in the pre- and pubertal age, the lack of a specific appearance, gradual disease development, uneventful course in many cases with a progressive development of hypothyrosis, and rare development of the grave patterns of hypothyrosis have been established. In clinically euthyroid conditions, the thyroliberin test revealed the predominance of latent or evident hypothyrosis in the majority of patients. Aspiration puncture of the thyroid accompanied by a cytological study of the punctate and detection of circulating immune complexes (increase of the content of medium-size circulating immune complexes) turned out to be of high diagnostic value. The measurement of the titer of antithyroid antibodies is of importance provided their level is high. Nevertheless the lack of antibodies does not allow one to exclude autoimmune thyroiditis. The scanning of the thyroid is of additional diagnostic significance, particularly in cases that require differentiation with nodular patterns of goiter and neoplasms. PMID- 2514410 TI - [Use of difenin in the treatment of constitutionally tall girls]. AB - Thirteen constitutionally tall girls marked by certain retardation of sexual development, confirmed by clinical, instrumental and laboratory studies were examined. The girls' age ranged within 11 to 15 years. The examinations were performed before and during phenytoin treatment. The data obtained indicate that during phenytoin treatment, increment of the body length decreased to 1-3 cm over one year; skeletal maturation was found to be accelerated by 2-5 years. In 8 patients, menstruations occurred by themselves and in 5, the menstrual cycle returned to normal. The rise of the content of follicle-stimulating and somatotropic hormones as well as of estradiol together with a tendency towards cortisol content lowering were recorded. Based on the studies performed it may be ascertained that the use of phenytoin inhibits the growth rate, accelerates the closing of the zones of bone growth, promotes normalization of menstrual function, and expedites menarche. PMID- 2514411 TI - [Contents of gonadotropic and sex hormones in the blood of healthy children]. AB - The blood content of follicle-stimulating, luteinizing hormones, prolactin, testosterone and estradiol was measured in 343 normal children (181 boys and 162 girls) aged 1 month to 16 years by radioimmunoassay with the aid of standard commercial kits. Standardized age- and sex-associated indicators have been elaborated. The time-course of changes in the hormonal content during puberty has been characterized. PMID- 2514412 TI - [Characteristics of the endocrine state of healthy girls during the neutral period]. PMID- 2514413 TI - Bacteria on stumps of amputees and the effect of antiseptics. AB - Amputees get stump infections usually from the natural inhabitants of the healthy skin and probably due to the unnatural environment of tight fitting sockets. The aim of the present study was to investigate the natural stump bacteria and the effect of antiseptics as well as the amputees' evaluation of such treatment. Fifteen amputees using their prostheses all day were investigated. Bacterial samplings were taken by swab technique with respect to bacteria and fungi from the stumps in the morning before prosthetic application and in the evening after a whole day's prosthetic use without antiseptic cleaning; after antiseptic cleaning with a combination of Isopropanol 45%. N-propanol 30% and N-cetyl pyridiniumchloride 0.2% for one day: after fourteen days continuous use. The patients were asked if they liked the antiseptic and if they would like to continue to use it. Two patients did not submit bacteriological samples after the cleaning period. Before cleaning S. epidermidis, S. aureus and alpha-hemolytic streptococci were commonly found. In two instances gram negative rods were found. After the cleaning period there was a reduction of bacteria in 11 out of 13 patients. All patients liked the antiseptic and the simplicity by which the stumps and the sockets could be kept clean. The authors feel that the use of antiseptics to increase stump and socket hygiene is justified. PMID- 2514414 TI - Binding modes of inhibitors to ribonuclease T1 as elucidated by the analysis of two-dimensional NMR. AB - Aromatic proton and high field shifted methyl proton resonances of RNase T1 complexed with Guo, 2'GMP, 3'GMP or 5'GMP were assigned to specific amino acid residues by 2D-NMR spectra in comparison with the crystal structure of RNase T1 2'GMP complex. The spatial proximities of amino acid residues as elucidated by NOESY spectra were found to be quite similar among free RNase T1 and the inhibitor complexes, showing that large conformational changes did not occur upon complex formation. However, small but appreciable conformational changes were induced which were reflected by the systematic chemical shift changes of some amino acid residues in the active site. Furthermore, we confirmed that RNase T1 contains two specific binding sites, one for the guanine base and the other for the phosphate moiety. The inhibitors are forced to adapt their conformations to fit the guanine base and the phosphate moiety to each binding site on the enzyme. This is consistent with our previous studies that 2'GMP and 3'GMP take syn form as a bound conformation, while 5'GMP takes anti conformation around glycosidic bonds. PMID- 2514415 TI - Regression of experimental cancer by oral administration of combined alpha tocopherol and beta-carotene. AB - alpha-Tocopherol (vitamin E) and beta-carotene have been shown to be capable of regressing established epidermoid carcinomas of hamster buccal pouch when injected locally into the tumor site. Neither has yet been shown to be effective in regressing cancer when administered by oral route. However, a combination of both alpha-tocopherol and beta-carotene was shown to be effective in regressing epidermoid carcinomas of hamster buccal pouch when the mixture was administered orally in vegetable oil. The epidermoid carcinomas were induced in the right buccal pouch of 100 Syrian hamsters by painting three times weekly for 14 weeks with a 0.5% solution of 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene in mineral oil. The animals were then divided into five equal groups of 20 animals. Group 1 animals received no further treatment and represented tumor controls. Group 2 animals received 200 micrograms beta-carotene and 200 micrograms dl-alpha-tocopherol acid succinate combined in 0.2 ml vegetable oil. Animals received the mixture daily by mouth using a 1-ml syringe. Groups 3 and 4 received beta-carotene and alpha tocopherol individually in double amounts (400 micrograms in 0.2 ml vegetable oil). Group 5 animals received only the vegetable oil (0.2 ml daily) and were controls for vehicle. The animals in Groups 1, 3, 4, and 5 were killed after 22 weeks because the tumors were extensive, large, and necrotic and the animals were weak and cachectic. After 22 weeks, the tumors in Group 2 animals were small in 15 out of 20 animals. The tumors were reduced in size compared with tumor burden at 14 weeks, the point at which the beta-carotene/alpha-tocopherol was started. PMID- 2514416 TI - Bacterial tracheitis caused by Branhamella catarrhalis. PMID- 2514417 TI - Corticotropin-releasing factor release from in vitro superfused and incubated rat hypothalamus. Effect of potassium, norepinephrine, and dopamine. AB - We have compared the release of CRF induced by potassium depolarization, noradrenaline or dopamine as monitored either during superfusion of mediobasal hypothalamus or during incubation of whole hypothalamus. The superfusion device was improved in order to prevent gas leakage and to keep constant pO2 and pCO2 in the superfusion chamber. Basal CRF secretion as well as KCl- and norepinephrine induced CRF release were comparable in superfusion and incubation experiments. Pharmacological investigations suggest that the stimulatory effect of norepinephrine on CRF release is mediated mainly through alpha 1 and alpha 2 adrenergic receptors, and partially through beta receptors. PMID- 2514418 TI - Cerebral and peripheral blood flow effects of TRH in the rat--a role of vagal nerves. AB - The cardiovascular effects of the IV infusion of TRH were studied in the rat. TRH tended to increase the MAP and markedly increased the CBF(tot) in the control group, in vagotomized animals and in methylatropine-pretreated rats. A marked vasodilation was noted in the pancreas, gastric mucosa, duodenum and cardiac muscle. This effect was turned to vasoconstriction, the heart excluded, in vagotomized animals. Muscarinic blockade attenuated the vasodilating effect of TRH in the duodenum and gastric mucosa. The results indicate that TRH elicits cerebral vasodilation and a partly nonmuscarinic parasympathetically mediated vasodilation in several gastrointestinal organs in parallel with a vasoconstriction which is unmasked by vagotomy. PMID- 2514419 TI - Severe, self-limiting lactic acidosis and rhabdomyolysis accompanying convulsions. AB - A 26 year old man with no previous history of convulsions presented in status epilepticus and severe lactic acidosis. He regained consciousness and the acidosis resolved after several hours of conservative management without intravenous bicarbonate, but he developed severe myalgia associated with marked elevation of creatine kinase and moderate raised plasma creatinine levels which resolved spontaneously after 3 days. Severe lactic acidosis and rhabdomyolysis may accompany status epilepticus, although they appear to be self-limiting without important sequelae. PMID- 2514420 TI - Gentamicin-resistant enterococci and endocarditis. AB - We report a case of endocarditis associated with a highly gentamicin-resistant enterococcus that failed to respond to conventional antibiotic combination therapy. Clinical resolution was achieved following cardiac surgery and antimicrobial treatment dictated by in vitro testing of the patient's organism. Laboratories should test blood culture isolates of enterococci for high level gentamicin resistance. Management of such cases requires individual assessment and extensive laboratory investigation. PMID- 2514421 TI - Cyclosporin treatment of a woman with acquired haemophilia due to factor VIII:C inhibitor. AB - A 47 year old woman is reported who had life-threatening bleeding due to the spontaneous development of factor VIII:C inhibitor. Cyclosporin combined with prednisone resulted in a full recovery and complete elimination of antibody even when other therapeutic facilities failed to be effective. PMID- 2514422 TI - A correlation of permeabilities for passively transported compounds in monkey and rabbit jejunum. AB - Permeability measurements were conducted for a series of compounds using in vitro tissue sections from monkey and rabbit jejunum. Jejunal segments were stripped of serosal musculature and mounted in a diffusion-cell system, using previously described methods and equipment. Permeability determinations of radiolabeled compounds ranging over two orders of magnitude in molecular weight were conducted. For the compounds examined, the permeability of the rabbit jejunum was approximately twice that of the monkey. This was in contrast to the relationship implied by the stripped tissue thickness measurements of 0.92 and 0.83 mm for rabbit and monkey, respectively. An investigation of the size of the paracellular space in the jejunum was undertaken to account for this apparent discrepancy in tissue permeability. Scanning electron micrographs of intestinal sections revealed a similar packing density of cells between species; however, a difference was noted in the shape and number of villi per unit area. Comparative measurements of the paracellular volume in both species using mannitol and methoxyinulin as extracellular space markers further suggests that the paracellular junctions are similar in size but more numerous per unit area of rabbit jejunum than that of the monkey. In contrast to passively transported compounds, the active transport of D-glucose was greater in monkey jejunum compared to rabbit tissue segments. When active transport was inhibited by blockade of the sodium pump with ouabain, the passive component of D-glucose transport for both rabbit and monkey tissue was in agreement with the relationship demonstrated above for compounds which are solely transported by passive processes. PMID- 2514423 TI - Limiting amino acids in raw and processed amaranth grain protein from biological tests. AB - Amino acid supplementation studies with young rats were carried out using raw and processed amaranth grain (A. cruentus) of dark- and cream- or light-colored seeds. The results of various studies repeatedly indicated that threonine is the most limiting amino acid in raw and processed, dark and cream-colored grain. Protein quality as measured either as NPR or PER was improved by threonine addition alone or with other amino acids and decreased liver fat to values similar to those measured with casein. This finding contradicts the reports that state that leucine, determined by chemical score, is the most limiting amino acid. Leucine addition alone or with other amino acids did not improve protein quality. The study confirmed cream-colored grain to be nutritionally superior to dark grain and that properly processed grain, light- or dark-colored, has higher protein quality than raw grain. PMID- 2514424 TI - Influence of endosperm texture on milling, chemical composition and nutritive quality in maize. AB - Three maize varieties namely Vijay, SO/SN composite and Shakti, which differ in their nutritional quality and endosperm texture were processed to prepare semolina (sooji) and process-flour. The nutritional quality of these products was determined and compared with whole kernel flour of the respective variety. Distinct differences in milling and chemical composition of three varieties were recorded. In quality evaluation tests lysine and tryptophan content, biological value and true digestibility were better in semolina and process-flour. Moreover, decrease in acid value in semolina and process-flour compared with whole maize flour recorded in all the varieties suggested improvement in shelf-life. PMID- 2514425 TI - [The diurnal rhythm of chemosensitivity and its contribution to nocturnal disorders of respiratory control]. AB - Circadian variation of chemosensitivity was examined under constant standardized metabolic and climatic conditions. Progressive hyperoxic hypercapnia tests and progressive isocapnic hypoxia tests were applied every 2 h in 10 healthy male subjects employing rebreathing (6 l spirometer). During the 24 h run they were confined to bed. They were allowed sleep at their convenience, but were woken for examination, and were given a low-protein isocaloric diet after each of the 13 tests. For assessment of psychophysiological performance, auditory reaction time, flicker fusion frequency, and self ratings of mood and activation were applied. ECG, body core temperature, nasal respiration, tcpaO2 and galvanic skin resistance were recorded continuously for 24 hrs. RESULTS: Chemosensitivity revealed a highly significant circadian variation with respect to a shift in the CO2-response (amplitude +/- 3 mmHg), and an amplitude of +/- 12 mmHg for the O2 response. Maximal sensitivity was found at 5 p.m., the absolute minimum at 5 a.m. Body core temperature, auditory reaction time, and flicker fusion frequency paralleled these changes in chemosensitivity. The results show that there is a pronounced 24 h cycle of chemosensitivity that is independent of sleep. Since chemosensitivity, and respiratory drive keeping upper and lower airways patent, are closely related, it is concluded that the circadian variation in chemosensitivity may substantially contribute to nocturnal increase in airway resistance, and central and obstructive apneas as well. PMID- 2514426 TI - [Diagnosis of the function of respiratory control in patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome]. AB - Twenty-five patients with OSAS were investigated and compared with an age-matched control group of 20 healthy volunteers. The ventilatory responses to pure oxygen administration, active hyperventilation, progressive hyperoxic hypercapnia and progressive isocapnic hypoxia were studied in all subjects. RESULTS: Hypoxic ventilatory response in OSAS patients was significantly diminished as compared with the control group. Hypercapnic ventilatory response, decrease in ventilation due to chemoreceptor inactivation during oxygen respiration and after hyperventilation did not differ in the two groups. The diminished response to hypoxia in OSAS patients was correlated with the increased respiration synchronous changes in nasal resistance. Our data seem to suggest that in OSAS patients the diminished responsiveness to hypoxia may increase the likelihood of nocturnal apnea. A decrease in hypoxic inspiratory drive appears to be one mechanism initiating upper airway occlusion. PMID- 2514427 TI - [Long-term acceptance of nasal continuous positive airway pressure therapy in 70 patients with sleep apnea over a 6-month treatment period]. AB - NCPAP therapy is considered to be an effective method of treatment in cases of obstructive and mixed sleep apnea (SA). We investigated its effectiveness during initiation of therapy, and the acceptance of the ambulatory long-term treatment. Here we present the first 70 patients (68 m, 2f) treated with nCPAP for at least six to a maximum of 20 months (on average: eleven months). Sixty-seven of the 70 patients were effectively treated with a nCPAP pressure of 5-15 mbar. The apnea index was reduced from 49 apnea episodes per hour (range 12-125) to 2 episodes per hour (range 0-8) on average. Therapy failed in one case (anatomical defect of the nasopharynx) and had to be abandoned in two cases (claustrophobia, acute rhinitis). Sixty-three patients, decided in favour of ambulatory long-term therapy. These patients were asked to complete a questionnaire about their experience with nCPAP. Four patients abandoned therapy (all within the first four weeks because of intolerance towards the apparatus), and one patient died 10 days after terminating treatment of an infection of the upper airway. Fifty-eight patients (82% of all) are still undergoing treatment. Eighty-eight per cent of these are using nCPAP for 5-7 nights a week throughout the entire sleep period, or at least for five hours. All patients report a marked reduction in or elimination of subjective symptoms. Mild local side effects occur quite frequently, but can be greatly reduced or eliminated in most cases. In individual cases they lead to a shortening of the nocturnal duration of application.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514428 TI - Glycosyltransferase activities in lymphocytes of patients with retinitis pigmentosa. PMID- 2514429 TI - Alteration of vascular thromboxane in rats with subtotal renal ablation. AB - To assess the roles of vascular prostaglandins in the hypertension of chronic renal failure, the release of prostacyclin and thromboxane (TX) from aorta was evaluated in male Sprague-Dawley rats, the renal mass of which was reduced by removing one kidney and two-thirds of the contralateral kidney ("5/6 nephrectomy"). Five-sixths nephrectomy was followed by significant rises in serum creatinine to 0.55 +/- 0.03 mg/dl and urea nitrogen to 42.9 +/- 3.8 mg/dl, with a concomitant rise in mean blood pressure from 121.6 +/- 1.6 mmHg to 155.3 +/- 8.4 mmHg. In 5/6 nephrectomized rats, the release of TX A2 from aorta, as measured by its stable metabolite TX B2, increased by 60% (p less than 0.01) and prostacyclin, as measured by its stable metabolite 6-keto-prostaglandin, F1 alpha (6-keto-PG F1 alpha) increased by 51% (p less than 0.05). The amounts of both TX B2 and 6-keto-PG F1 alpha released from aorta were closely related to the height of mean blood pressure. These results suggest that the enhanced vasoconstrictor TX production in the vascular walls may be relevant to hypertension in rats with subtotal renal ablation. The adaptive increase in prostacyclin production in the vascular walls may compensate for the elevation of blood pressure due to chronic renal failure in this animal model. PMID- 2514430 TI - Effects of taprostene, a chemically stable prostacyclin analogue, in patients with ischaemic peripheral vascular disease: a placebo controlled double-blind trial. AB - Thirty patients with ischaemic peripheral vascular disease and intermittent claudication were randomly allocated to receive either placebo or taprostene, a chemically stable prostacyclin analogue, intravenously at a rate of 25 ng/kg/min for 6 hours daily on 5 consecutive days. Taprostene produced a significant (p less than 0.05) increase in absolute walking time compared to placebo on one day after infusion and at 1, 4 and 8 weeks (14% vs 2.8%) later. Taprostene also produced a significant (p less than 0.05) increase in the pain-free walking time compared to placebo in the follow-up period (8 weeks after infusion: 23% vs 3.8%). During the infusion period systolic and diastolic blood pressure decreased (p less than 0.05) and heart rate was accelerated (p less than 0.05) in the taprostene treated group whereas no change was monitored in the placebo group. The ankle/brachial Doppler index was unaffected by taprostene. The platelet half life was significantly (p less than 0.05) prolonged following taprostene-infusion (72.6 +/- 9.35 vs 77.9 +/- 7.44 hours). However, no change on platelet half-life was found in the placebo group (p less than 0.05). Various measures of platelet function parameters followed in vitro (ADP-induced aggregation, platelet sensitivity to PGI2, PGE1, PGD1 and taprostene, concentrations of platelet factor 4 and beta-thromboglobulin) showed no change with taprostene. Measures of circulating platelet aggregates and endothelial cells count showed no changes during the 2 months follow-up period too. It is assumed that taprostene may be of clinical benefit in patients with ischaemic peripheral vascular disease. However, future investigations have to be carried out to assess the optimal dose regime. PMID- 2514431 TI - Effect of misoprostol in preventing stress-induced intestinal fluid secretion in rats. AB - Psychological stress may alter gastrointestinal function by central nervous system controlled alteration of local intestinal mediators. Prostaglandins have been shown to prevent epithelial damage to various noxious stimuli. The purpose of this study was to determine (a) if wrap restraint stress altered in vivo intestinal fluid absorption in rats, and (b) if the prostaglandin E1 analogue, misoprostol, could correct observed fluid malabsorption. In vivo loop studies demonstrated net fluid secretion in the ileum and colon of cold wrap restraint stressed rats. In cold wrap restraint stressed rats, misoprostol reversed net secretion to absorption, but it had no effect on fluid absorption in controls. Mild wrap restraint stress did not alter in vivo fluid absorption. We conclude that cold wrap restraint stress is accompanied by net intestinal fluid secretion that can be effectively reversed with misoprostol. PMID- 2514432 TI - Effects of preload and eicosanoid synthesis inhibition on rat aortic smooth muscle sensitivity. AB - Concentration-response curves to serotonin and phenylephrine were obtained from aortic strips subjected to low (0.75 g) and high (3.0) preloads in the presence and absence of eicosanoid synthesis inhibitors. The sensitivity of the strips to both agonists was greater in the high preload strips. The cyclooxygenase inhibitor, indomethacin (28 microM), shifted the serotonin concentration-response curves to the right. However, the preload effect still remained. The lipoxygenase inhibitor, nordihydroguaiaretic acid (10 microM), not only decreased sensitivity to serotonin and phenylephrine, but eliminated the preload effect as well. These results suggest that 1) both cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase metabolites affect the sensitivity of isolated arterial smooth muscle to vasoactive agents, and 2) lipoxygenase, but not cyclooxygenase, metabolites may play a role in the effect of preload on arterial smooth muscle sensitivity. PMID- 2514433 TI - The presence of prostacyclin binding sites in nonpregnant bovine uterine tissue. AB - Myometrium of various animal species makes a considerable amount of prostacyclin (PGI2) which is a potent myometrial and uterine vascular smooth muscle relaxing agent. This action of PGI2 is perhaps mediated by binding to specific receptors, which have never been demonstrated in uterine tissue of any animal species until very recently. The quantitative light microscopic autoradiographic approach used in the present studies demonstrated that while bovine myometrial smooth muscle and uterine vascular smooth muscle contained PGI2 specific binding sites, endometrial and perimetrial cells contained few or no binding sites. The number of binding sites in circular and elongated myometrial smooth muscle and in arteriolar smooth muscle were similar (P greater than 0.05). The PGI2 binding to the uterine cells was greatly reduced (P less than 0.001) following coincubation with excess unlabeled PGI2, but not with its stable metabolite, 6-keto PGF1 alpha, PGE2, PGF2 alpha and leukotriene C4 which bind to nonpregnant bovine uterine tissue, also had no effect of PGI2 binding. In conclusion, nonpregnant bovine uterine tissue contain specific PGI2 binding sites which may mediate its potent relaxing effect on myometrium and uterine vasculature. PMID- 2514434 TI - [Synthesis and in vivo antitumor effect of N,N-di(2-chlorethyl) hydrazides of natural alpha-aminocarboxylic acids]. AB - N,N-Di(2-chlorethyl)hydrazides of the following alpha-amino-carboxylic acids were synthesized: glycine, valine, norvaline, lysine, phenylalanine, tyrosine, cystine, homocystine, aspartic and glutamic acid as well as the N,N diethylhydrazides of glycine, phenylalanine and cystine. The N,N-di-(2 chlorethyl)hydrazides have a pronounced effect on solid tumours (tumour growth inhibition by 30-100%), whereas their inhibition activity with ascite tumours is negligible. N,N-diethylhydrazides show analogous but less expressed biological effect. PMID- 2514435 TI - [Possibilities in the management of long-term patients outside the psychiatric hospital; clinical assessment by the treatment staff in The Netherlands]. AB - How many longstay patients could be just as well served by less sheltered facilities, and what are the main reasons for staff-members to consider patients suitable for alternative care? These were the two questions of a Dutch study (1984-1985) in five mental hospitals. Both, the attending psychiatrist and one of the nurses, were asked to give an independent judgement for each of the persons of a random sample of 381 longstay patients. Some results: thirty percent of the longstay patients were judged eligible for alternative care. They were younger, less frequently diagnosed as schizophrenic, better integrated inside and outside of the mental hospital, more likely to be residents of wards with high turnover rates, were less aggressive, and had better social skills, and shorter periods of inpatient stay. Compared with the rest of the patients no statistically significant differences were found with regard to suicidal behaviour, organic brain syndrome and formal admission status. PMID- 2514436 TI - MRI in psychiatric patients with serum antibodies against Borna disease virus. PMID- 2514437 TI - Magnetoencephalography in prospective clinical routine. PMID- 2514438 TI - Advantages of magnetoencephalography (AC and DC) in focal and generalized brain activity. PMID- 2514440 TI - Comparative studies with MRI, SPECT, and CT in patients with epilepsy of unknown origin. PMID- 2514439 TI - EEG brain mapping in gerontopsychopharmacology: on protective properties of pyritinol against hypoxic hypoxidosis. PMID- 2514441 TI - [The effect of lithium carbonate on the leukocyte count following ionizing radiation. 4. The effect of lithium carbonate on the activation of granulocytes]. AB - From numerous investigations it is known that lithium carbonate promotes granulocytopoiesis by stimulation of CSF (colony stimulating factor) in bone marrow. To prove if no immature, in their functions restricted cells are delivered from bone marrow, the activity of granulocytes was tested in vitro in patients with lithium therapy. It could be seen that granulocytes of peripheral blood show an increased in-vitro-activation after lithium influence in vivo. PMID- 2514442 TI - [Radiation pneumonitis in the x-ray picture following megavoltage irradiation using the Neptune 10 p. linear accelerator]. AB - For 105 patients with healthy lungs (76 breast carcinomas, 29 testicular tumors) irradiated from 1981 to 1983 with the linear accelerator Neptune 10p. the pulmonary effects of irradiation were monitored over several years. The true dose applied for breast carcinomas was 46 Gy (2 Gy per fraction), for testicular tumors 40 Gy were applied in the mediastinal field. 9% of the patients showed excessive infiltrations, 18% radiation pneumonitis of medium degree. In 35% of the patients slight infiltrations were found. The course of the pneumonitis was, according to its stage, regular. After a latency period 30 days post irradiation the early stadium occurs. Florid pneumonitis develops between the 45th and 90th day after irradiation. Extended radiographic effects occur up to 10 days earlier. Through a period of pneumonitis with pronounced shrinkage fibrosis develops. By CT-based individual radiation planning the pulmonary radiation reaction can be significantly reduced. The differential diagnostics of radiation effects and metastases is discussed. PMID- 2514443 TI - [Digital radiography with phosphorus memory: verification of the centering of the patient in high-energy radiotherapy]. AB - A digital radiographic system using storage phosphor detectors was employed in order to verify radiotherapy treatments with high energy photon beams (60Co-18 MV X-rays). The wide range linearity of the detectors and also the possibility of digital image post-processing allowed portal films to be obtained with sufficient contrast in all treatment techniques, particularly in the case of mantle fields. The use of digital radiography may become an easy and valuable procedure for therapy verification. PMID- 2514444 TI - Inadequate periods of anticoagulation in the 'lupus anticoagulant syndrome'--a case report. PMID- 2514445 TI - Twenty years of sodium cromoglycate treatment: a short review. AB - Sodium cromoglycate (Intal) was first synthesized from khellin, a naturally occurring plant chromone, by Roger Altounyan and his colleagues in 1965. It was introduced as a therapeutic agent in 1968 and marked a new era in the management of asthma. Numerous studies on the use of sodium cromoglycate in the treatment of asthma have since been published. Both short-term and long-term controlled studies indicate unequivocally that sodium cromoglycate is of significant clinical benefit in 60-70% of asthmatic children and adults. Clinical experience during the last 20 years has indicated that it should be the drug of first choice in the short-term treatment of asthma provoked by irritants, allergens and exercise, as well as in chronic asthma. Side effects are usually minor and sodium cromoglycate is the safest therapeutic agent in current use for the treatment of asthma. PMID- 2514446 TI - Reflections on the mechanism(s) of action of sodium cromoglycate (Intal) and the role of mast cells in asthma. AB - In this review, only a few questions concerning the mechanism(s) of action of sodium cromoglycate in asthma have been considered. The large number of cells and mediator pathways where sodium cromoglycate may have pharmacological effects are depicted. In addition to its mast cell effect, sodium cromoglycate is also inhibitory to macrophages, eosinophils, monocytes and platelets, which are all important components in the inflammatory response of asthma. From studies with bradykinin and sulphur dioxide it is also known that the drug can block afferent discharges along non-myelinated nerves. Although the ability of sodium cromoglycate to block late phase responses and acquired hyper-reactivity is not questioned, to what extent its therapeutic efficacy can be accounted for by actions on these leukocytes and reflex pathways is not known. When administered to patients with asthma, sodium cromoglycate results in symptomatic improvement, but there is still much to be learned about its mode of action. PMID- 2514447 TI - Roger Altounyan: the man and his work. PMID- 2514448 TI - The place of Intal in paediatric practice. AB - Correct diagnosis of childhood asthma is essential for appropriate management. Precipitating factors, such as exercise or allergens, should be identified, and drugs prescribed as appropriate. beta-agonists are employed in children with mild episodic asthma. In children with moderate asthma, sodium cromoglycate is the first-line agent. Ketotifen and other antihistamines appear to have only a very weak antiasthmatic effect. Theophyllines are sometimes useful, but must be used with care because of side-effects. Inhaled corticosteroids are effective and necessary in those with severe disease. Successful management also depends on good compliance and appropriate patient monitoring. PMID- 2514449 TI - General practice aspects of Intal treatment. AB - This study analysed the type of patients receiving Intal in two Scottish practices by age, sex, type of delivery system and other therapy received. It emerged that the 'typical' Intal patient in general practice (if he actually existed) was 5-9 years old, male, and likely to be using a Spinhaler. The patient was also likely to be taking bronchodilators, but not corticosteroids. PMID- 2514450 TI - Are the results of early long-term trials of sodium cromoglycate valid? AB - The first long-term study of sodium cromoglycate, reported in 1972, demonstrated the effectiveness of sodium cromoglycate in controlling asthma. The trial had various limitations, but more recent trials have been designed so that they overcome some of these problems. Results of these trials validate the results obtained in the first long-term trial. PMID- 2514451 TI - Contribution of amino acids in protective solutions to postischemic functional recovery of canine kidneys. AB - Amino acids are known to increase glomerular filtration rate (GFR). There is also an early resumption of filtration following 2-h renal ischemic stress under protection by histidine-buffered histidine-tryptophan-ketoglutarate solution (HTK), possibly due in part to an amino acid effect. Hence, we have examined the possibility of further enhancing the postischemic GFR by adding 32 (ASP I; 4 mM Mg2+) or 36 (ASP II; 6 mM Mg2+) mM L-aspartate (asp) or 32 mM DL-aspartate (ASP III) to the HTK solution in place of chloride. After infusion of 500 ml 5% glucose, canine kidneys were protected by an 8-min perfusion with HTK (n = 5), ASP I (n = 4), ASP II (n = 5) or ASP III-solution (n = 3). The subsequent ischemia lasted for 2 h at 27-31 degrees C. During reperfusion, both GFR and filtration fraction (FF) were higher in kidneys protected by L-aspartate containing solutions. ASP III showed no improvement against HTK. An additional preischemic intra-aortal application of HTK or ASP I solution just above the exit of the renal arteries prior to the intrinsic protective perfusion further raised the postischemic GFR. The present results suggest that L-aspartate but also histidine may have favorable amino acid effects in renal protective solutions in addition to known positive effects of histidine. PMID- 2514452 TI - Unidirectional duodenal and jejunal calcium and phosphorus transport in the rat: effects of dietary phosphorus depletion, ethane-1-hydroxy-1,1-diphosphonate and 1,25 dihydroxycholecalciferol. AB - Unidirectional calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (Pi) transport was studied in vitro by means of a modified Using technique in the absence of electrochemical gradients between the mucosal and serosal buffer medium. Duodenum and jejunum of male albino Sprague-Dawley rats were investigated after Pi depletion alone (0.03% diet Pi), Pi depletion and EHDP treatment (40 mg/kg per day s.c. X 4), and Pi depletion, EHDP and 1,25(OH)2D3 (500 pmol i.v. X 2) treatment. Mucosal-to-serosal Ca and Pi fluxes (Jms) changed in parallel, depending on the 1,25(OH)2D3-status of the animals. Regarding serosal-to-mucosal fluxes (Jsm), Pi depletion resulted in an increase in Jsm for Ca and Pi, associated with a rise in Gt and Isc in the duodenum but not in the jejunum. EHDP administered to block synthesis of 1,25(OH)2D3 caused further augmentation in duodenal Jsm for calcium but not phosphorus, which was paralleled by an increase in Gt and Isc. After repletion with 1,25(OH)2D3, an increase in Jsm for Ca and Pi and a rise in Gt and Isc were observed in the duodenum and in the jejunum. Serosal-to-mucosal fluxes for Ca and Pi were related to tissue conductance (Gt) in the duodenum (r = 0.89, P less than 0.001 and r = 0.84; P less than 0.001, respectively), as well as in the jejunum (r = 0.55; P less than 0.01 and r = 0.66; P less than 0.001, respectively). Changes in Jsm also paralleled changes in transmural shortcircuit current (Isc). The data are compatible with the assumption of an increase in Jsm for Ca and Pi and a rise in Gt, both reflecting an increase in water recycling across the tight junctions caused by a rise in sodium absorption. They provide further evidence that the overall effect of 1,25(OH)2D3 on intestinal Ca and Pi transport is to increase both cell-mediated active mucosal-to-serosal transport and paracellular diffusional serosal-to-mucosal ion movement. PMID- 2514453 TI - Influence of naloxone on fetal breathing and the respiratory response to hypercapnia. AB - The effect of naloxone on fetal breathing and the respiratory sensitivity to CO2 was tested on chronically prepared fetal lambs on days one and four post-surgery. After a control period the fetus was challenged with hypercapnia for 10 min and after another control period 9 mg naloxone was administered to the fetus followed by another CO2 test 15 min later. An index of fetal breathing (Veq), tidal volume (VT) and frequency of breathing (f) was determined from tracheal pressure deflections and from the integrated diaphragmatic EMG, expressed as power of diaphragmatic activity per min. Naloxone consistently caused fetal arousal but the duration was variable. The respiratory response to naloxone was also variable and not statistically different from control. The respiratory sensitivity to CO2 (% delta Veq/Torr delta PaCO2 or % delta Diaph. Power/min/Torr delta PaCO2) was not changed by naloxone on either day. We conclude that endorphins do not have a significant direct role in the fetal respiratory response to CO2 but may be involved in the control of state. PMID- 2514454 TI - Intrapulmonary CO2 inhibits inspiration in garter snakes. AB - This study was undertaken to assess the role of intrapulmonary chemoreceptors in the control of breathing in reptiles. Garter snakes were tracheostomized to remove the influence of upper airway receptors. After recovery from anesthesia, the animals were unidirectionally ventilated or allowed to ventilate normally, but without glottal control of the breath-hold. Breathing movements were recorded by means of a pneumotachograph. When a bidirectionally breathing snake was presented with CO2 at the tracheal tube, inspiratory duration and volume decreased. When CO2 was removed from the inspired air between breaths, inspiratory duration and volume increased. Removing CO2 from the airstream of a unidirectionally ventilated snake during a breath-hold produced apnea, but removing CO2 at the beginning of inspiration caused the duration and volume of the inspiration to increase. This reflex appears to represent a positive feedback mechanism for enhancing inspiration once a breath has been initiated. PMID- 2514455 TI - In vitro granulocyte aggregation. AB - Granulocyte aggregation in EDTA-blood from a patient with rheumatoid arthritis is described. The phenomenon was observed three times within a 10-month period. The blood leukocyte count in a Coulter Counter decreased approximately 30% within 6 h, without resulting in overt leukopenia. Simultaneously, increasing numbers of granulocyte aggregates turned up in smears. There were no indications of thrombocytes being involved in the phenomenon. PMID- 2514456 TI - [The value of thrombolysis for the treatment of acute pulmonary embolism]. AB - In the 1970s controlled studies in acute massive and submassive pulmonary embolism demonstrated by angiography, scintiscan and hemodynamic measurements that urokinase (UK) and streptokinase (SK) induce a more rapid dissolution of thrombotic material in the pulmonary circulation than heparin. Thousands of individuals would have been needed to prove a statistically significant reduction in the relatively low mortality (10-20%) in the study population. However, in massive pulmonary embolism with right ventricular overload, the advantage of thrombolysis is clearly evident. As confirmed by treatment series of varying size, SK and UK usually require 1-3 days for extensive clearance accompanied by impressive functional improvement. If contraindications are observed and invasive procedures avoided, the bleeding risk is acceptable. Acute severe pulmonary embolism with marked pulmonary hypertension but stable circulation should be treated with conventional doses of SK or UK for several days. In cases with unstable circulation or established shock vital improvement may be obtained by bolus injection (into pulmonary artery, right atrium or i.v.) of 2 m I.U. UK or by short i.v. infusion of 100 mg tissue plasminogen activator. Rapid reduction of pulmonary vascular resistance to a less critical value will prevent right ventricular decompensation and save time for embolectomy or subsequent conventional thrombolytic therapy. PMID- 2514457 TI - [Effectiveness of various inhalation aids in children with bronchial asthma]. AB - The effect on lung function of two puffs of a mixture of 1 mg disodium cromoglycate (DNCG) and 0.5 mg of reproterol hydrochloride (Aarane) administered by metered dose inhaler through 4 different spacer devices (Volumatic, Nebuhaler, InspirEase and Synchron-Aerosol) was tested in 18 asthmatic patients (age 8-15 years). There was no loss or gain in the effectiveness of treatment from the tested aerosol according to the type of inhalation device used. PMID- 2514458 TI - [The antimicrobial effect of an alginate with an antiseptic admixture]. AB - Attempts to simplify impression disinfection lead to the production of an aseptic alginate impression material (Blueprint asept, De Trey/Dentsply, Konstanz, Germany). This study describes the aseptic properties of this new type of impression material. The in-vitro part of the experiments showed a reduction of Staphylococcus aureus by 6 and of Pseudomonas aeruginosa by 4 log steps after 60 min, and of Candida albicans by at least 3 log steps after 15 min of exposure. Under in-vivo conditions oral bacteria residing on the impression surfaces were reduced by nearly 4 log steps. Although the aseptic properties of the material were demonstrated, the biological acceptance, dimensional stability and compatibility with gypsum have to be tested in further studies. PMID- 2514459 TI - [Thyrotropin releasing hormone and blood pressure regulation]. PMID- 2514460 TI - [A synaptic vesicle-associated phosphoprotein: synapsin I]. PMID- 2514461 TI - Bleeding patterns and acceptability among Norplant users in Singapore. AB - Norplant contraceptive implants are silastic implants containing levonorgestrel. This study describes our experience with 100 acceptors of NORPLANT implants in Singapore. No pregnancies occurred during the first year of use. The majority found the method's ease of use to be the most attractive feature. Disruption of menstrual rhythm appeared to be the least liked feature. However the incidence of these menstrual irregularities appeared to diminish with time. Implant users have tolerated this early disruption of their menstrual rhythm well and the continuation rate at the end of the year was 97%. Thus it appears that Norplant is a safe, effective and acceptable method of contraception. PMID- 2514462 TI - Case report 580: Extra-abdominal fibromatosis of the right hip. PMID- 2514463 TI - Case report 584: Ossified stylohyoid complex with pseudarthroses. PMID- 2514464 TI - Dye-coupling in the neostriatum of the rat: I. Modulation by dopamine-depleting lesions. AB - Evidence from experiments performed in turtle and fish retina suggests that dopamine (DA) modulates the permeability of gap junctions. The present experiment was aimed at determining if DA has a similar role in the mammalian neostriatum. Adults rats received one of four treatments: unilateral electrolytic substantia nigra lesions, unilateral injection of 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) into the substantia nigra, unilateral neocortical aspiration, or no treatment. After 3-5 weeks, neostriata from both sides of the brain were prepared for in vitro intracellular recordings. Recorded neurons (N approximately 150) were filled with Lucifer Yellow (LY), a low molecular weight dye that crosses gap junctions. In animals with electrolytic nigral lesions, dye-coupling in the ipsilateral neostriatum occurred after 38% of the intracellular injections. After 6-OHDA lesions, 19% of the injections produced dye-coupling in the ipsilateral neostriatum. This difference may have been accounted for by the fact that electrolytic lesions produced a greater degree of DA loss than 6-OHDA injections. Both of these percentages contrast with the very small percentage of dye-coupling found in intact animals or in animals with neocortical lesions. Dye-coupling occurred only between medium-sized spiny cells. No morphological differences between dye-coupled and non-dye-coupled cells were observed with light microscopy. Overall, passive and active electrophysiological properties of dye coupled and single neurons were similar. The results suggest that DA may function in the neostriatum to control permeability of gap junctions. PMID- 2514465 TI - Frequencies of HLA-DP alleles in the four major types of leukaemia. AB - The frequencies of HLA-DP alleles in 50 acute lymphocytic, 43 acute non lymphocytic, 50 chronic myelogenous and 51 chronic lymphocytic leukaemia patients were compared with 254 controls using primed lymphocyte typing. In CLL and ANLL there were significantly decreased frequencies of DPw1. Decreased DPw1 and DPw3 was observed in ALL, but after correction for the number of comparisons made this was no longer significant. However, in ALL, even after correction, there were significantly increased frequencies of DPw2 and DPw5, whereas in ANLL and CLL the only significant increases were of DP-blank, and in CML there were no positive or negative associations at all. These results suggest an influence of DP alleles in disease susceptibility and resistance in three of the four major types of leukaemia. PMID- 2514466 TI - Characterization of mitomycin C-induced gastrointestinal damage. I. In situ recirculation experiment. AB - The effects of mitomycin C (MMC), an anti-tumor agent, on the intestinal absorption of various drugs in rats were investigated. Based on microscopic observations, preadministration of a single intravenous dose of MMC (3 mg/kg) caused serious degeneration of epithelial cells, villous atrophy, and mitotic arrest in crypts at 48 hr after pretreatment. At this time point, absorption of sulfanilamide, salicylic acid, cephalexin, and L-tryptophan was shown to be significantly decreased by means of an in situ recirculation technique. The histological changes and the decrease in absorption of sulfanilamide, a model for passively absorbed drugs, were shown to depend on the timing of MMC pretreatment. Maximal effects were observed 48 hr after dosing. The MMC-induced reduction in the absorption of drugs was not a result of differences between treated and control animals with respect to pH of the drug solution, binding of drugs with intraluminal macromolecules, or intestinal mucosal blood flow. The absorption of sulfanilamide from the small intestine in the in situ system correlated well with the wet weight of the small intestine regardless of pretreatment dose or route. This suggests that the change in absorptive surface area of the intestinal mucosa may play a major role in the MMC-induced decrease in absorption capacity of the intestine. PMID- 2514467 TI - Characterization of mitomycin C-induced gastrointestinal damage. II. In vitro everted sac experiment. AB - The everted gut sac technique was employed to clarify the effects of preadministration of mitomycin C (MMC) on intestinal transport of various drugs. Loss of intestinal tissue weight and increase in mucosal-to-serosal fluxes of passively absorbed drugs were noted in the case of MMC pretreatment, although the extent of the latter effect varied according to the inherent absorbability of each drug. The maximal effect of MMC on intestinal tissue weight and transport of sulfanilamide, a model of a passively absorbed drug, was observed 48 hr after pretreatment. The increase in the transfer of sulfanilamide correlated well with the MMC-induced decrease in intestinal tissue weight. These phenomena may result from the shortened transfer distance from mucosal to serosal fluid and impaired barrier function of the intestinal mucosa. On the other hand, transport of actively absorbed 3-O-methyl-D-glucose was not influenced by MMC pretreatment, which could be explained by an increment in the passive permeation counterbalancing the decrement in the active permeation. The present study also suggested that the measurement of transport of drugs through everted gut sacs might be useful as a simple and qualitative index of gastrointestinal mucosal damage. PMID- 2514468 TI - S-phase block and cell death in human lymphoblasts exposed to benzo[a]pyrene diol epoxide or N-acetoxy-2-acetylaminofluorene. AB - The relationship between perturbation of the cell cycle and induction of cell death by benzo[a]pyrene diol epoxide (BPDE) or N-acetoxy-2-acetylaminofluorene (AcAAF) in exponentially proliferating T5-1 human lymphoblastoid cells was studied. Both BPDE and AcAAF caused cells to accumulate in the S phase of the cell cycle. Perturbation of the cell cycle preceded reduction of cell viability and was associated with inhibition of population growth. Effects on each of the three parameters were noted during the first population doubling, suggesting that they occurred during the first cell cycle after exposure. BPDE-exposed cells accumulated initially in early to mid-S phase and then moved parasynchronously through the remainder of this phase. In contrast, AcAAF-exposed cells accumulated uniformly at all points of the S phase. High doses of either compound froze cell cycle progression, completely inhibited population growth, and killed nearly all cells in the population. Our results suggest that perturbation of DNA replication mediates cell death after exposure to doses of either chemical that cause less than complete inhibition of cell proliferation. However, additional processes, such as perturbation of transcription, may be involved in lethality after exposure to doses that immediately and completely inhibit population growth. PMID- 2514469 TI - Androgens amplify beta-adrenergic and FSH stimulation of granulosa cells. AB - The effects of androgens on granulosa cell stimulation by isoproterenol and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) were determined. Two functional parameters of granulosa cell stimulation were monitored: (a) activity of a transfected proopiomelanocortin (POMC) promoter and (b) production of progesterone. Treatment with the beta-adrenergic agonist, isoproterenol, stimulated steroidogenesis, and both isoproterenol and FSH appeared to enhance POMC promoter activity. The non aromatizable androgen, 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT), produced no effect on either parameter, but it potentiated the steroidogenic response to isoproterenol. Preliminary data also indicated a potentiation by DHT of the FSH-mediated increase in POMC promoter activity; results with a combination of DHT and isoproterenol were suggestive of potentiation. A possible role for androgen amplification of adrenergic stimulation in polycystic ovarian syndrome is discussed. PMID- 2514471 TI - Jejunal flora of patients with megaoesophagus secondary to Chagas disease. AB - The jejunal flora of 15 patients with megaoesophagus secondary to Chagas disease was studied and compared with that of 15 control individuals. In addition to the serological reactions for Chagas disease (immunofluorescence and complement fixation reaction), all subjects were submitted to endoscopy and X-ray of the oesophagus, gastric secretory study and investigation of the jejunal flora. The mean bacterial counts (log10) of Chagas disease patients (4.14 +/- 2.15 c.f.u./ml) was significantly higher than those of the control group (2.83 +/- 1.34 c.f.u./ml). Aerobic bacteria were isolated from 14 Chagasic patients (maximum count 10(10) c.f.u./ml) and 7 controls (maximum count 10(5) c.f.u./ml). Anaerobes were isolated from 7 patients (maximum count 10(7) c.f.u./ml) and 1 control (10 c.f.u./ml). Controls and Chagas disease patients differed significantly in the maximum acid output, but there was no statistically significant relation between bacterial counts and maximum output. PMID- 2514470 TI - The feasibility of discrimination between Leishmania and Endotrypanum using total parasite DNA probes. PMID- 2514472 TI - Epizootiology of Chagas disease near a forest settlement in French Guiana. PMID- 2514473 TI - The potential role of various species of intermediate hosts of Schistosoma haematobium in Saudi Arabia. AB - The potential role of 3 species of Bulinus in the transmission of Schistosoma haematobium in Saudi Arabia was assessed on the basis of their susceptibility to experimental infection, their geographical distribution and numbers, and the type of habitats in which they were found. B. truncatus, distributed mainly in the mid and south-western regions, showed extremely low susceptibility to strains of S. haematobium from Yemen, Egypt and Sudan. The same species from one area in the north-west was refractory to a strain of the parasite from Yemen. In contrast, B. wrighti was very susceptible to infection but is found only in a few habitats far from human settlements, thus probably playing little part in the transmission of the disease. As B. beccarii is highly susceptible to the infection and is distributed widely, this snail is probably the main intermediate host of schistosomiasis in Saudi Arabia. PMID- 2514474 TI - Two-year follow-up of Schistosoma mansoni infection and morbidity after treatment with different regimens of oxamniquine and praziquantel. AB - Three study groups in the Rusizi plain (Burundi) were examined parasitologically (duplicate 28 mg Kato slides) and clinically (history, abdominal palpation) 0, 1.5, 3, 6, 12 and 24 months after treatment for Schistosoma mansoni infection. Infected subjects in Maramvya (n = 430) were treated randomly with oxamniquine 20, 30 or 40 mg/kg; those in Bulinga (n = 457) with praziquantel, 20, 30 or 40 mg/kg; those in Bulamata (n = 333) with praziquantel, 30 or 40 mg/kg. In children (less than 20 years) in Maramvya and Bulamata, infection rates and intensities returned almost to pretreatment levels one to 2 years after treatment. In Bulinga, reinfection in children was much less intense. Hardly any reinfection occurred in adults in Bulinga and Maramvya; in Bulamata, half of the cured adults were reinfected, most of them lightly, 2 years after treatment. The initial parasitological advantage of the higher dosages of both drugs disappeared generally 3-12 months after treatment. There was no indication of predisposition to heavy reinfection after treatment of subjects with initial high egg counts. Little relation between pre-treatment egg count and morbidity was observed. The impact of chemotherapy on hepatomegaly was limited and observed only in adults treated with 40 mg/kg of either drug. Spleen rates in children and adults were not affected. Abdominal pain was reduced in almost all treatment groups for 3 to 24 months. The frequency of bloody diarrhoea decreased dramatically in children and adults from all 3 villages. This effect lasted 24 months in Maramvya, 12 months in Bulinga and 6 months in Bulamata, and was not dose-dependent. It is concluded that: (i) repeated population chemotherapy combined with sanitation is necessary to achieve lasting impact on infection rates; (ii) retreatment intervals should be adapted to age group and, possibly, local endemicity levels; (iii) the morbidity impact of population chemotherapy in these conditions was greater on intestinal than on hepatosplenic disease; (iv) lower, cheaper treatment schedules may in the long term be as effective as those with high cure rates. PMID- 2514475 TI - The relationship between uncomplicated schistosomiasis and hepatitis B infection. AB - Clinical and laboratory findings and hepatitis B virus (HBV) markers were compared in 105 patients with uncomplicated schistosomiasis mansoni, schistosomiasis haematobium, or both infections. 34 (32%) had HBs antigen (Ag); 51 (49%) had anti-HBs and/or anti-HBc; 20 (19%) had no markers for HBV. In comparison with the non-HBV-infected group, the group with HBsAg had more complaints of nausea and vomiting, and higher mean values for serum bilirubin and aspartate aminotransferase, and were less likely to complain of loose stools. In comparison with the non-HBV-infected group both groups having HBV markers were older, more likely to have received prior therapy (parenteral therapy in particular) for schistosomiasis, less likely to complain of blood in their stools, and more likely to have higher serum total proteins, albumin, globulin, and alanine aminotransferase. This study supports two mechanisms which could cause an association between HBV infection and schistosomiasis: (i) self selection by patients with schistosomiasis seeking medical care for symptoms due to HBV infection and (ii) iatrogenic infection with HBV during parenteral treatment for schistosomiasis. It also suggests that much of the clinical morbidity ascribed to uncomplicated chronic schistosomiasis may be caused by a concomitant occult HBV infection. PMID- 2514476 TI - Serology of Schistosoma mansoni infections after chemotherapy. PMID- 2514477 TI - An outbreak of nosocomial cholera in a 755-bed hospital. AB - From 30 October to 7 December 1984, an outbreak of nosocomial cholera involving 11 cases of biotype El Tor, serotype Inaba, took place in a 755-bed hospital in southern Thailand. The outbreak occurred primarily among patients admitted with severe illness. Of the 11 cases, 7 were children and 4 were adults. Most cases had mild symptoms of cholera and no case died in this outbreak. The first 2 cases occurred sporadically with a subsequent cluster of cases showing an explosive pattern. A case-control study found that a history of receiving liquid tube-fed diet was significantly more common among cholera cases than their matched controls, but it could not be determined how the diet was contaminated with cholera. Cases were also significantly more likely than controls to be on oral antacid medication which could increase risk of infection by neutralizing gastric acidity. No additional cases occurred after extensive implementation of control measures. PMID- 2514478 TI - Aspirin and human platelets: from clinical trials to acetylation of cyclooxygenase and back. AB - Aspirin has been convincingly shown to reduce the incidence of vascular occlusive events in a wide range of patients at risk of thrombotic complications. These beneficial effects are currently linked to suppression of thromboxane A2 dependent platelet aggregation. This in turn reflects permanent loss of the cyclooxygenase activity of platelet prostaglandin G/H synthase, through acetylation of Ser530. Progress in our understanding of the molecular mechanism of action of aspirin and definition of the clinical pharmacology of its platelet effects has been associated with a downward trend in its daily dosage. This has been reduced by a factor of ten over the last decade, substantially reducing gastrointestinal toxicity, while leaving antithrombotic efficacy virtually unchanged. Carlo Patrono reviews the biochemical, pharmacological and clinical data that form the basis of the present consensus and provide a rationale for clinical trials of low-dose aspirin. PMID- 2514479 TI - [What is healthy economy?]. AB - Health economics is the branch of economics which is concerned theoretically and practically with the health sector and related subjects such as e.g. the market for medicine and medico-technical equipment. In health economics, the universal basic problem is: Distribution of scarce resources to competing ends and establishment of rules for this. In this respect, (health) economics is knowledge about priorities based on the methodical an appreciative basis of economics. The essence is the absolute or relative scarcity and the existence of alternative uses for the limited resources. Many identify health economics with societal economic analyses: cost-benefit analyses or cost-effectiveness analyses. A great many analyses of this type have been published and these have been employed to an increasing extent in connection with decisions about introduction or alteration of the existing therapeutic or diagnostic methods. Health economics is, however, much more: theoretical and empirical analysis of the demand for health and health services, including the effect of payment-for-service; supplier and producer behaviour including questions about the existence and consequence of supplier induced demand i.e. the professional health groups may, themselves, determine the extent of the demand and employment for their services to a considerable extent. Analyses of productivity and effectiveness and methods for measuring and assessing health status are two other typical subjects. Thus, in the course of the past 15-20 years, health economy has become established as an academic subject with its own professorships and scientific journals. PMID- 2514480 TI - [Utilization of free and protein-bound lysine in the Japanese quail]. AB - The utilization of dietary lysine for protein synthesis is affected by the digestibility of protein-bound lysine, by its intestinal resorption and by its oxidative catabolism. The approach chosen in this paper enables a comparison of the cumulative effect of these processes on the utilization of free and protein bound lysine, respectively. The principle of the approach is based on a quantification of the expiration of 14C-labelled carbon dioxide after an oral administration of a diet, which contains L-(U-14C)-lysine either as a free amino acid or bound to yeast proteins. During an adaptation phase cockerels of the Japanese quail received a diet based mainly on ground wheat and wheat gluten. This diet was supplemented either with yeast proteins or with a mixture of L amino acids which simulates the composition of the yeast proteins. In the main experiment the expiration of labelled carbon dioxide was measured during 240 minutes after the administration of the corresponding labelled diets. Just before treatment the animals were either in the postprandial phase or in a state of slight hunger. The maximum of expiration of labelled carbon dioxide occurred around the 60th minute after administration of the corresponding labelled diets. The cumulative expiration of labelled carbon dioxide, expressed in per cent of the radioactive dose used, amounts to 15.5% and 14.3% for free and protein-bound lysine, respectively. The utilization of both forms of lysine in the Japanese quail is lower than in broilers. PMID- 2514482 TI - Bacterial growth in mastitic whey in relation to bacterial association with mastitis. AB - The growth of mastitis pathogens (eight strains) and non-pathogenic bacteria (eight strains) was studied using microturbidometry. All bacteria grew well in whey originating from uninflamed quarters. However, the growth of bacteria which are not considered to be mastitis pathogens (Lactobacillus plantarum, Bacillus subtilis, Streptococcus lactis and Pseudomonas fluorescens) became suppressed by whey from mastitic quarters. On the contrary, the growth of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli was generally better in mastitic samples. Streptococcus agalactiae showed inconsistent results. PMID- 2514481 TI - An economic justification of "blitz" therapy to eradicate Streptococcus agalactiae from a dairy herd. AB - Streptococcus agalactiae was identified as the cause of mastitis in a 240-cow dairy herd. Forty-five per cent of the herd had cell counts over 500,000/ml, and 28 per cent had cell counts over 1,000,000/ml. Dry cow therapy was used regularly but teat dipping had not been used for three years. The procedures at milking were modified, teat dipping was introduced, and the herd was divided into two according to cell count. The 120 cows with higher cell counts were treated with 300 mg erythromycin (Erythrocin intramammary; Sanofi Animal Health) preparation per quarter at two consecutive milkings. Towards the end of lactation, all the 90 lactating cows in the herd were again treated with erythromycin. Milk samples were collected from all the cows in the herd 12 months after the initial treatment, and S agalactiae was isolated from only one replacement heifer which had been purchased after the treatments with erythromycin. The butterfat and protein levels in the milk were compared with those of a similar, but untreated, herd for 12 months before and after therapy. The butterfat levels rose sharply after treatment, and financial assessment showed a 41 per cent return on investment in the 12 months following the treatment. PMID- 2514483 TI - [The socioeconomic aspects of the therapeutic measures in lymphogranulomatosis]. AB - The socioeconomic impact of procedures used in the treatment for Hodgkin's disease was studied on the basis of follow-up data. The first-year costs appeared maximal, viz. approximately 3904.78 rubles per patient. The cost effectiveness of the first-, first two- and first three-year treatment was 8.2, 4.8 and 3.5 higher than the overall costs, respectively. Comparison of costs of treatment and maintenance of the whole of patients with the expected cost effectiveness assuring that at least one-third of rehabilitated patients resume working showed the latter parameter to exceed the overall costs by 1.4 times. PMID- 2514484 TI - [The effect of metoclopramide on the acid and pepsin secretion of patients with chronic gastritis and peptic ulcer]. AB - The authors studied the effect of single intakes of metoclopramide on the acid and pepsin secretion in patients with chronic gastritis and duodenal ulcer. Peroral intake of 20 mg of metoclopramide during histamine-stimulated gastric secretion resulted in a distinct reduction of H ions and an insignificant reduction of pepsin secretion. Cerucal-initiated inhibition of acidity is accompanied by reduction of potassium concentration. PMID- 2514485 TI - [The optimization of the corticosteroid therapy of patients with destructive pulmonary tuberculosis]. AB - Corticosteroids were administered in 120 patients with active pulmonary tuberculosis during the morning hours every other day in association with tuberculostatic agents. It was found that corticosteroids in a dose similar to 15 mg of prednisolone did not influence the efficacy of antibacterial agents while an increase to 20 mg used for not less than 2 months increases the treatment efficacy to 83.3% and over 3 months--to 89.5%. PMID- 2514486 TI - [The effect of nitrates and miskleron on the prostacyclin-thromboxane ratio and on the functional activity of the thrombocytes in stenocardia patients]. AB - Results of treatment of patients with stable stenocardia by means of nitrates indicate that the antianginal effect was parallelled by an increase of the sensitivity of thrombocytes to prostacyclin and level of the plasma metabolite prostacyclin. The hypolipidemic effect of miscleron therapy is accompanied in patients with ischemic heart disease by reduction of the aggregation properties of thrombocytes and level of the metabolite thromboxane A2 in the plasma. The rationality of combined treatment with miscleron and nitrates is substantiated from the position of aimed effect on important links of atherogenesis and ischemic heart disease, namely functional properties of thrombocytes, prostacyclin-thromboxane ratio and level of blood lipids. PMID- 2514487 TI - [Apex cardiography in the hemodynamic assessment of patients with unstable stenocardia]. AB - For evaluation of the myocardial function and objectivization of the clinical course of IHD apexcardiography (ACG), echocardiography, transesophageal electrostimulation were used in 20 patients with nonstable stenocardia and 10 healthy persons. The most informative index of ACG was the ejection fraction and atrial "A" wave to systolic "E" wave ratio. It recommended to use wider ACG for evaluation of the hemodynamics during rest. PMID- 2514488 TI - [Mycobacterium tuberculosis L forms in patients with pulmonary and pleural tuberculosis during antibacterial chemotherapy]. PMID- 2514489 TI - [The results of computed tomography in patients with traumatic epilepsy]. AB - Computerized tomography in 134 patients with traumatic epilepsy allowed to reveal different changes in the brain tissue, meninges and CSF spaces. Early stages were characterized by signs of meningeal adhesions. With increased duration of the disease these changes were supplemented by signs brain atrophy in the form of dilatation of the subarachnoidal spaces, internal hydrocephalus. CSF cysts were diagnosed in 5 patients, porencephaly in 2, ischemia foci in the brain in 9 patients. PMID- 2514491 TI - Hunger in Washington. PMID- 2514490 TI - [Area and natural reservoirs of hemorrhagic fever virus with kidney syndrome in the Far East of the USSR]. AB - Lungs of 9127 small mammals of 17 species trapped in Khabarovsk region, Magadan, Amur, and Sakhalin regions in 1982-1987 were examined, among them 11 species are reservoirs of HFRS virus. Most frequently infected are striped field mice and Japanese field mice, red voles and large-toothed red-backed voles which are the dominant species of the appropriate landscape formations. Circulation of two HFRS virus serotypes among small mammals was demonstrated. The main epidemiological role belongs to the striped field mouse in HFRS foci of the meadow-field type, and to Asiatic field mouse in forest foci in the territories examined. PMID- 2514493 TI - You can have an impact on safe staffing and patient safety. PMID- 2514492 TI - A real case for non-verbal communication in nursing practice. PMID- 2514494 TI - Washington state insurance commissioner upholds nurse reimbursement. PMID- 2514495 TI - [Prostaglandin receptors and prostaglandin metabolism in the terminal circulation of the brain]. AB - Synthesis, conversion, specific binding sites for PGI2, PGE1 and PGD2 and adenylate cyclase activity were evaluated in rat brain microvessels. All PG's investigated enhance adenylate cyclase activity dose-dependently. PGE1 and PGD2 were the major PG's formed by microvessels, in contrast to rat aortic tissue, generating predominantly 6-keto-PGF1 alpha, the stable degradation product of PGI2. On the contrary, RIA demonstrates that rat cerebral microvessels form predominantly 6-keto-PGF1 alpha (from endogenous precursor), followed by PGE2 and PGD2. PG actions on microvasculature are supposed to be predominantly mediated by adenylate cyclase linked receptors and there is good evidence for a central role of PGI2 and PGD2 in local regulation of the microcirculation. PMID- 2514496 TI - [The use of disposable draping materials in the operating room and its effect on the postoperative wound infection rate]. AB - In a consecutive study we analyzed the influence of gown and drape material on the postoperative wound infection rate. 1033 operations were included in this study. In 354 operations conventional cotton gowns and drapes were used, while in 679 operations, a disposable gown and drape system was utilized. The use of disposable gown and drape material reduced the postoperative wound infection rate in our surgical department. The greatest reduction -43% - was seen in clean wounds. Within this group gallbladder operations showed a reduction of 59% and hernia operations showed a reduction of 46%. A slight reduction was also seen in clean-contaminated and contaminated wounds, while in dirty wounds there was no difference. However, due to the relatively low numbers involved the results were not of statistical significance. An analysis of the costs over a 12-month period showed a reduction of 7.5% when the disposable gown and drape system was used. With respect to ease of handling and wear the disposable material was preferred by the operating-staff, both doctors and nurses. PMID- 2514497 TI - [Diagnosis and therapy of functional disorders of the bile ducts]. AB - The pathophysiology, diagnosis and therapy of biliary motility disorders are surveyed on the basis of the literature and own experience. Bile duct dyskinesia is clinically characterised by pain of biliary and sometimes pancreatic type evoked by meal or psychogenic influence. A prerequisite of the diagnosis is the exclusion of any organic origin of the complaints. In the routine clinical practice Oddi's sphincter dyskinesia can be diagnosed by the simultaneous assessment of the response to a provocation test and the therapeutic effect of a sphincter-relaxant, e.g. nitroglycerine. For differentiating between papillary stenosis and dismotility the endoscopic manometry and radiopharmacological methods are of greatest value. The cystic duct dyskinesia can be recognized with the help of cholecystokinetic provocation test and on the basis of therapeutic response to nitrite derivates. The therapy of the biliary dyskinesia includes influence on the evoking dietetic and psychic factors and administration of long acting sphincter relaxants as well. In failure of the conservative therapy the complaints caused by Oddi's sphincter dyskinesia and cystic duct dyskinesia can be abolished by endoscopic or surgical sphincterotomy and cholecystectomy, respectively. PMID- 2514498 TI - [Determination of gastric bicarbonate secretion in the human without acid suppression]. AB - Gastric CO2/HCO3 was determined in absence of simultaneous inhibition of acid secretion by intra- and extragastric pCO2/pH measurements in 23 persons and calculated using the equation of Henderson-Hasselbalch. pCO2 was measured with use of a new electrode. The characteristics of the CO2 selective electrode membrane were tested in vitro. The CO2 selective membrane proved to be stable against 0.1 n HCl, gastric fluid with a pH of 1, and bile as well as mechanical irritations. 96.8 +/- 0.52% of given amounts of bicarbonate were detected in test fluids ranging in pH from 2.5-7.1. In gas and fluid, a linear relationship between given and measured bicarbonate of y = 0.97 x +1.03 with a correlation coefficient of 0.99 was observed. In vivo at pH less than 6, the intragastric pCO2 was significantly higher than that in venous blood. CO2 diffusion could be prevented by equilibration of intragastric pCO2 with venous pCO2. pCO2 was then measured in fluid as well as in reaspirated gas. Thus 94.6 +/- 8.8%, HCO3- that had been instilled intragastrically, could be detected. Without equilibration and resultant volume increase of the gas phase, bicarbonate secretion was 296.4 +/- 41.9 mumol/h under basal conditions and 520.8 +/- 252.8 mumol/h after acid stimulation. With equilibration, a bicarbonate secretion of 574.4 +/- 66.7 and 754.4 +/- 81.2 mumol/h was observed during basal and stimulated acid secretion. Our results indicate that bicarbonate measurements in absence of acid suppression require determination of CO2 in the fluid as well as in the gas phase. PMID- 2514499 TI - [Discovery of a hepatitis non-A-non-B virus]. PMID- 2514500 TI - [Symposium reports. Enteral nutrition - home enteral nutrition. Frankfurt, 17 - 18 June 1988]. PMID- 2514501 TI - [Nutritionally defined and chemically defined diets--advantages, disadvantages, requirements of optimal chemically defined diets]. PMID- 2514502 TI - [Hormonal changes in enteral nutrition]. PMID- 2514504 TI - Effect of liquid formula diets supplemented with citrus pectin on intestinal structure and function. AB - Three studies in rats and one in normal humans subjects have documented improvements in both colonic structure and function in different conditions of colonic dysfunction. It is suggested that studies be performed in patients with colonic dysfunction to confirm these observations. PMID- 2514503 TI - [Changes in the motility of the gastrointestinal tract in enteral feeding]. PMID- 2514505 TI - Enteral nutrition. PMID- 2514506 TI - [Short bowel--enteral nutrition]. PMID- 2514507 TI - Enteral nutrition in diabetes mellitus. AB - In the diabetic insulin deficiency gives rise to a series of special metabolic features which must be taken into consideration in artificial nutrition. Quantitative and temporal harmonization of nutrient intake and endogenous insulin reserve or exogenous insulin administration is more important than the ratio of nutrients. In critical situations, parenteral administration of insulin is to be recommended for specific modulation. If absorption of insulin from the subcutaneous tissue and of nutrients from the intestine is certain, the enteral route is feasible. Continuous nutrient provision via a pump is to be recommended, since blood glucose peaks can be avoided in this way. However, since the comparison of liquid diets with conventional food showed similar postprandial blood glucose profiles, we also regard a bolus application and a conventional subcutaneous insulin treatment regime possible in diabetes mellitus. With newly developed fiber-enriched diets, more favourable effects on metabolism may be achieved in the future. PMID- 2514508 TI - [Enteral nutrition in patients in intensive care and the early postoperative phase]. PMID- 2514509 TI - [Complications of enteral nutrition]. PMID- 2514510 TI - [Ambulatory nutrition procedures from the viewpoint of the health office]. PMID- 2514511 TI - [Transnasal catheter technics]. PMID- 2514512 TI - [Percutaneous endoscopy-controlled gastrostomy]. PMID- 2514513 TI - [Fine-needle catheter jejunostomy]. PMID- 2514514 TI - [Organizational methods of long-term home enteral feeding]. PMID- 2514515 TI - [Optimizing technical administration forms]. PMID- 2514516 TI - [Principles of glucocorticoid therapy from the viewpoint of the internist]. AB - 40 years after the first clinical application of cortisone, glucocorticoids have become an indispensable part of the treatment of various internal disorders. The many side effects of glucocorticoids, however, clearly diminish their utility and stand in the way of their full acceptance by the patient. All principles of glucocorticoid therapy, therefore, aim at the improvement of the ratio between benefits and unwanted effects. There are 3 ways to achieve this goal: 1. Topical application (e.g. beclomethasone-17, 21-dipropionate for the local therapy of bronchial asthma); 2. special timing of glucocorticoid administration (e.g. alternating therapy); 3. active fight against unwanted effects by means of additional therapeutic measures (e.g. prophylactic therapy of osteoporosis induced by steroids). New perspectives may offer themselves as soon as macrocortin--a mediator of glucocorticoid action--will become available. PMID- 2514517 TI - Glutaraldehyde in whole-cell Bordetella pertussis vaccine. AB - Treatment of the whole-cell bacterial suspensions of Bordetella pertussis with 0.05% glutaraldehyde at room temperature for 10 min kills the bacteria and, except for some histamine sensitising activity, almost detoxifies the pertussis toxin. The glutaraldehyde-vaccine is of good potency with a meritorious performance in tests for abnormal toxicity in mice, the leucocytosis-promoting factor and the mouse weight gain. Using glutaraldehyde for the inactivation of whole-cell pertussis vaccine on a commercial scale must await extensive clinical trials with vaccine lots with a good record of safety and potency in animal tests. PMID- 2514518 TI - Experimental studies on the protective efficacy of a Pseudomonas aeruginosa vaccine. AB - Pseudomonas aeruginosa vaccine (PV) containing cell proteins with molecular weight (Mr) 20,000-100,000 and up to 0.08% (w/v) admixture of lipopolysaccharide was obtained by water-salt extraction and subsequent ultrafiltration. PV protects mice against experimental P. aeruginosa infection, stimulates production of specific protective antibodies in rabbit and does not provoke obvious toxicity in laboratory animals. PMID- 2514519 TI - Importance of arterial, venous and arteriovenous values of ABB parameters and glucose metabolites for assessment of resting lower extremity metabolism in healthy individuals and in patients with peripheral arterial occlusive disease. AB - The study deals with assessment of the extent of tissue ischaemia and disorders of aerobic metabolism on the basis of comparison of resting arterial, venous values, and the arteriovenous differences in pH, pCO2, pO2, lactate, pyruvate and glucose levels and the lactate/pyruvate index in 32 extremities of 16 healthy individuals and in 42 extremities of 38 patients with chronic ischaemic syndrome of the lower extremity in stages IIb, III and IV according to Fontaine. The group of patients showed significantly higher values of lactate, pyruvate, glucose and the lactate/pyruvate index and lower pH levels than controls. Changes in pCO2, pO2 and pyruvate levels were not significant. Multivariate analysis of data revealed serious impairment of the metabolism of extremities affected by chronic ischaemia. PMID- 2514520 TI - Stimulatory effects of vascular prostaglandins on the antiaggregatory activities of pentoxifylline acetylsalicylic acid combinations in vitro. AB - Pentoxifylline, Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) and particularly both drugs in combination are known as active platelet inhibitors in pharmacological models in vivo. However, rather high amounts of these drugs are necessary to demonstrate inhibitory effects on the aggregation of human platelets in vitro, where no vessel walls are present. Surprisingly, these weak effects could be enhanced by the addition of external prostaglandins (prostacyclin (PGI2) and prostaglandin E1 (PGE1] into the in vitro system. Ternary combinations consisting of pentoxifylline, ASA and PGI2 exhibited the most impressive synergistic effects. Thus our study highlights the contribution of prostaglandins, especially of the natural vascular platelet inhibitor PGI2, for the display of the antiaggregatory potency of such drug combinations. PMID- 2514521 TI - [Streptokinase therapy in a patient with lupus anticoagulant and thrombosis of the A. iliaca externa]. AB - We report on a 26-year-old male who suffered from thrombocytopenia, factor V deficiency and punctuate hemorrhages during the past. On admission the patient presented with acute left iliac artery occlusion. The walking distance was reduced to 200 m. Laboratory findings showed the existence of a lupus anticoagulant (LAC). As a therapeutical attempt a systemic lysis with high doses of streptokinase (9,250,000 I.E.) was carried out which was followed by a successful catheter lysis (250,000 I.E. streptokinase). During lysis the patient didn't show any unusual hemorrhagic events. Arterial thrombosis together with a lupus anticoagulant can be treated with high doses of streptokinase. PMID- 2514522 TI - [Diagnosis-specific hospital length of stay in Schleswig-Holstein]. AB - About 900,000 stays in 34 hospitals of Schleswig-Holstein during the years 1977 1984 have been analysed in a retrospective study. The purpose of this research was to determine the reasons explaining the length of stay in hospitals. Analyses of variance indicate considerable difference between the 289 diagnostic labels and between structures of determinants. On the average about 20 percent of the variance in length of stay can be explained by characteristics of patients, hospitals and the environment. In prospective studies the presentation of the different diagnostic group related patterns of determinants may be useful in selecting tracer-diagnoses and independent characteristics. PMID- 2514523 TI - [Determinants of income and expenditure development in the annual reports of the health insurance of the Federal Republic of Germany]. AB - Contribution rates to the German statutory health insurance differ considerably between different sickness funds. While insurance benefits are largely standardized, these differences are widely regarded as a problem for the state's social policy. The health insurance bodies often offer hasty interpretations to justify the differences of contribution rates. These interpretations, however, cannot be checked on the basis of data from the annual reports of the health insurance. In reality, there is a number of determinants of the contribution rate which lie as well inside as outside the sphere of influence of the health insurance bodies. In order to estimate the respective impact of single determinants it is important to differentiate the health expenditures by age and sex of all insured persons (both the contribution paying members and their co insured dependents). A further disentanglement of health expenditures into prices, quantities and structural components allows to identify the reasons of increases in health costs. This is also a necessary precondition for creating and implementing suitable measures that are directed to control health costs. At the same time, the improved information system of the statutory health insurance would contribute to a better understanding of the performance of the health system in general. PMID- 2514524 TI - [The chambers of the bovine uterus during early pregnancy. A comparative morphologic, sonographic and nuclear spin tomographic findings]. AB - In the bovine, the uterus shows prominent circular folds during early pregnancy. These folds protrude into the lumen nearly at right angles to the uterine wall and, reaching a height of about 2-3 cm in some cases, often reach the center of the uterine lumen. Thus the uterus becomes apparently divided into a number of pocket-like chambers. Endometrial folds are usually found in the pregnant as well as the contralateral uterine horn. Intra-uterine features can be well demonstrated on exenterated bovine uteri without injuring the organ by means of nuclear magnetic resonance imaging with a high resolution performance. This technique was used to examine the uteri of 4 heifers on day 26, 28, 32 and 55 of pregnancy, respectively. The 3-dimensional imaging of these uteri demonstrated the presence of crescent-shaped folds usually at right angles to the long axis of the uterine horn. These endometrial folds explain why the allantochorionic vesicle cannot be demonstrated in toto by transrectal sonography during early pregnancy, apparently being subdivided by the protrusions from the uterine wall. It has been found that the uterus is characterized by 2-3 echo-weak compartments around day 25 of pregnancy and by about 4-6 by day 30. The number may yet increase with progressing pregnancy. Histological sections out of the wall of the pregnant and the contralateral uterine horn have revealed that the folds are composed mainly of the endometrium (Tunica mucosa) and the circular muscle (Stratum circulare). PMID- 2514525 TI - [Comparison of arterial and venous blood gas and acid-base values in prematurely born healthy calves or calves with a late asphyxia]. AB - The arterial and venous blood gas and acid-base values of 44 calves delivered by caesarean section before term were examined during the first seven days of life. The newborns were divided into two groups based on clinical observations during the first hour of life, the blood pH and the base deficit: Group 1: 30 calves without respiratory distress syndrome (vital, non-asphyxial); they did not develop any diseases in the course of the experiment. Group 2: 14 calves with respiratory distress syndrome (asphyxial); 9 of these animals died in the course of the experiment. The blood gas and acid-base parameters (blood pH, base deficit, pCO2, pO2) measured in venous blood of the calves without respiratory distress syndrome (group 1) were similar to those cited in the literature for calves delivered at term. Among the calves that had survived respiratory distress syndrome, significantly decreased blood pH and increased base deficit values were found in both venous and arterial blood even on the third day after birth. Differences in pCO2 and pO2 were, however, no longer statistically significant between the two groups after 24 hours of life. For blood pH, base deficit, and pCO2 significant correlations were consistently found between the values in venous blood and the corresponding values in arterial blood in vital (non asphyxial) calves. Due to the considerably smaller number of animals significant correlations between these parameters were less frequent in asphyxial calves, although some of the correlation coefficients were higher than in the vital calves. Experimentally induced influences and animal variation made the corresponding pO2-values of venous and arterial blood in both test groups less unequivocal. The analysis of arterial blood gas and acid-base parameters was not more conclusive than the analysis of venous blood regarding diagnosis and prognosis of respiratory distress syndrome. The blood pH and base deficit seemed to be the most suitable parameters to evaluate the severeness of the disease. PMID- 2514526 TI - Clinical, endocrinological and spermatological studies after endotoxin injection in the boar. AB - Three adult boars were injected intravenously with endotoxin from Salmonella typhimurium. Blood plasma was analysed for the contents of 15-ketodihydro-PGF2 alpha, LH and testosterone. Total amount of white blood cells and differential counts were determined in whole blood. Semen was examined for concentration, motility, volume and morphological appearance of the spermatozoa. The boars were slaughtered three months after the endotoxin injection and the testes were examined. The total number of white blood cells decreased and the levels of 15 ketodihydro-PGF2 alpha rose immediately after the endotoxin administration. An initial increase in LH was seen in two out of the three boars. The increase in LH was followed by a testosterone increase in one boar and a testosterone decrease in the other. The third boar showed no initial increase in LH but an increase in testosterone. Semen examination demonstrated various morphological changes of the spermatozoa in all boars. The changes started to appear at about the same time after the endotoxin injection, but differed among the individuals. The examination of the testes depicted no changes from what is seen in normal animals. The present results indicate that the boar responds to endotoxin similar to what is seen in the ram. The endocrine changes, e.g. in LH and testosterone, are similar to those seen after termination of heat stress. The seminal changes indicate a disturbance located in the epididymis as well as a short-term, mild degeneration in the seminiferous epithelium. PMID- 2514527 TI - [Clinical and hematological changes after olaquindox poisoning in fattening pigs]. AB - A pig grower ration containing olaquindox at a concentration of 778 mg/kg was accidentally fed to 10 respectively 16 weeks old weaner pigs. The subsequent intoxication was characterized by poor growth and long-term disturbances of renal function and electrolyte metabolism. A deficiency of aldosterone, produced by a selective degeneration of the arcuate zone of the adrenal cortex, is probably the cause of the hyponatremia, hyperkalemia and hemoconcentration observed. Simultaneously plasma levels of urea and creatinine were elevated five- to eightfold. Due to hyperkalemia episodes with collapse, paralysis and severe electrocardiographic changes occurred several times. Two pigs died in the course of such attacks. Individuals, which transiently showed distinct clinical symptoms of intoxication, did not show any signs of disease 15 or 18 weeks later. Therefore it may be assumed, that the lesions of the adrenals, heart and skeletal muscle caused by olaquindox intoxication are reversible in some cases. PMID- 2514528 TI - Epinephrine enhanced positive contrast shoulder arthrography in the dog. AB - Positive contrast shoulder arthrograms were obtained with and without the intra articular injection of 0.2 mg of epinephrine in 6 experimental dogs and were compared after completion of the study. Radiographs were made 1, 3, 5, 9, 13, 17, 25 and 30 minutes after injection of the contrast medium. Admixture of epinephrine to the contrast medium resulted in an improvement in the sharpness of the contrast outlined joint structures as well as in the persistence of this enhanced detail on delayed radiographs. Detailed ECG recordings in 2 dogs during this procedure showed no abnormalities. PMID- 2514529 TI - [Diagnosis of fertility disorders of the sow by the determination of estradiol and progesterone in the blood serum]. AB - Serum samples of 181 selected sows had been taken the day before culling, reproductive tracts were examined and the culling reasons were recorded. In sows with histories of multiple returns cyclic ovaries were found predominantly. All of the few sows culled for prolonged behavioural oestruses suffered from ovarian cysts. 87% of the sows whose serum oestradiol level exceeded 10 pmol/l and whose serum progesterone level exceeded 2.5 pmol/l revealed ovarian cysts. In 72% of the sows whose hormone concentrations were below these levels inactive ovaries were found. Corpora lutea, partly in association with ovarian cysts were present in 91.1% of the sows whose sera exhibited progesterone levels greater than 2.5 nmol/l and concentrations of oestradiol less than 10 pmol/l. As a rule ovarian diagnoses by combined determination of oestradiol and progesterone could be confirmed by the results of morphological examination of the reproductive tracts. In practice after selection of sows suffering from fertility disorders an even better reliability in diagnosis of ovarian disorders may be achieved than in this investigation. PMID- 2514530 TI - Role of plasma fatty acids, prostaglandins and antioxidant balance in bovine mastitis. AB - Plasma levels of free fatty acids (FFA) were measured in cows with mastitis. FFA levels are known to be elevated in milk of affected cows, and similar increases were now observed in blood plasma. Of the long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids which serve as precursors for prostaglandins (PGs), leukotrienes (LT) and related eicosanoids, arachidonic acid (C20: 4 omega-6) was elevated by 156 per cent and C20: 3 (consisting of both omega-3 and omega-6) 153 per cent; eicosapentaenoic acid (20: 5 omega-3), not present in the plasma of healthy animals, was detected in blood of mastitic animals. Arachidonic acid correlated positively with the plasma levels of PGs. Total plasma phospholipids were increased as well, and they were positively correlated with the levels of linoleic and arachidonic acids. Changes in FFA levels correlated positively with parameters of inflammation, like bovine serum albumin and serum N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase, but negatively with the antioxidant status of the animals (vitamin E, glutathione peroxidase). As PGs and LTs are mediators of inflammation, and products of lipid peroxidation, the increase of plasma FFA could be related to tissue damage caused by oxygen free radicals. Similar processes are, however, involved also in host defence, e.g. in oxidative killing of pathogens. PMID- 2514531 TI - Comparison of two orthodontical techniques for the correction of lingual deviation of upper incisors in the dog. AB - Two different orthodontic treatments were applied to dogs exhibiting lingual deviation of maxillary incisors. Two dogs were treated by means of an orthodontic device consisting of an acrylic plate fitted with a counteracting spring. The results were disappointing. These animals and two other dogs were treated with Schwarz's orthodontic device. After 3 to 4 months of treatment, lingual malposition of incisors was successfully corrected. Orthodontic therapy induced problems were unimportant and with collaborating owners could be easily overcome. PMID- 2514532 TI - [The effect of an immune antibacterial plasma and a donor leukocyte mass on the immune system of patients with suppurative-septic processes]. AB - The influence of immune antistaphylococcal, anti-Proteus and anti-Pseudomonas aeruginosa plasma and donor leukocyte mass on some humoral and cell-mediated immunity characteristics in patients with purulent and septic diseases has been studied. The study has shown that treatment with immune plasma leads to an increase in the amount of circulating T lymphocytes and in the concentration of IgA, IgM and IgG, to the activation of phagocytosis and to an increase in the titers of the corresponding antimicrobial antibodies simultaneously with a decrease in the content of bacterial antigens in the blood serum. Treatment with donor leukocyte mass has also been found to lead to an increase in the concentration of T lymphocytes and immunoglobulins, to enhance the functional activity of phagocytizing neutrophils and to promote the normalization of the content of leukocytes in the peripheral blood. The use of these preparations as stimulating agents in the treatment of patients having purulent septic diseases and, simultaneously, low cell-mediated immunity characteristics is recommended. PMID- 2514533 TI - [Reaction of short-latency brain stem evoked potentials to acoustic stimulation and electroencephalography in post-traumatic epilepsy]. AB - Multilevel CNS involvement in closed craniocerebral trauma was manifested by epileptic focus formation and development of posttraumatic epilepsy in roughly 10 to 30% of the cases. The issue of neurophysiological investigation of the late period of posttraumatic epilepsy is far from being well discussed in the literature. The authors revealed the changes of short-latency brainstem evoked potentials to acoustic stimuli in the late period of posttraumatic epilepsy, which are of major diagnostic importance especially in the cases without EEG pathology. PMID- 2514534 TI - Synthesis of dibenzodioxazocines and their effects on cholinesterases and muscarinic cholinergic receptors. AB - A new family of tricyclic compounds, the dibenzodioxazocines were synthesized. These compounds were the following: 2-chloro-12-(2-piperidino-ethyl)-dibenzo d,g 1,3,6 dioxazocine hydrochloride: EGYT-2347, 2-chloro-12-(3-dimethylamino-2-methyl propyl)-dibenzo [d,g] [1,3,6]-dibenzodioxazocine hydrochloride: EGYT-2509, 2 chloro-12-(3-dimethylamino-propyl)-dibenzo [d,g] [1,3,6] dioxazocine-maleate: EGYT-2474 and 2-chloro-12-2-(4-methyl-piperazino)-ethyl-dibenzo [d,g] [1,3,6] dioxazocine-dihydrochloride: EGYT-2541. These compounds are inhibitors of both butyryl- and acetylcholinesterase to and they exhibited relatively good anticholinergic properties in receptor binding experiments. The most selective inhibitor of butyrylcholinesterase is the compound EGYT-2347 (Ki = 1.5 x 10(-7) M) which strongly binds to rat brain muscarinic cholinergic receptor (KD = 4.1 x 10(-8) M). PMID- 2514535 TI - Structure-activity relationships of new muscarinergic dibenzodioxazocines. AB - 1H-NMR and X-ray conformation studies of new muscarinergic dibenzodioxazocines have been carried out. It is suggested that EGYT-2347 (2-chloro-12-/2-piperidino ethyl/-dibenzo [d,g] [1, 3, 6] dioxazocine hydrochloride) may exist in solution in at least two distinct conformations, unlike other tricyclic or non-tricyclic compounds having antimuscarinergic activity. One of these conformations possessing an asymmetric, twisted central hetero-ring confined between two phenyl rings is probably the energetically more stable form, while the other having a butterfly-like structure, with mirror symmetry-related phenyl rings as in phenothiazines seems to be more suitable for receptor binding. The importance of the hydrophobic pocket at the receptor site was revealed by the good correlation of the calculated and measured hydrophobic parameters to the muscarinic activity of these newly synthesized and other known muscarinergic compounds. PMID- 2514536 TI - Coupled enzymatic reactions measured in a single protein crystal from myogen A. AB - Pairwise coupled reactions of fructose-1,6-bisphosphate aldolase and sn-glycerol 3-phosphate dehydrogenase, 3-phosphoglycerate kinase and D-glyceraldehyde-3 phosphate dehydrogenase, triosephosphate isomerase and sn-glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase have been detected by microspectrophotometry in single crystals obtained from myogen A in the presence of polyethylene glycol. Microspectrophotometric measurements with polarized light demonstrate that the protein molecules are oriented and that NADH is bound with a definite orientation to the dehydrogenases within the crystal. PMID- 2514537 TI - Small-square (SS) net exists in trout muscle. AB - The small-square-net form (with the large-square-net form) was clearly observed in brown trout muscle in cross-square-net-section. Fresh adductor mandibularis and dorsal muscle strips, isometrically clamped to prevent contraction, were prefixed in 3% glutaraldehyde, 0.1 M cacodylate, pH 7.4, and post-fixed in 1% osmium tetroxide in veronal acetate buffer at 2 degrees C. The samples were dehydrated, embedded in epon-araldite, cross-sectioned, and stained with uranyl acetate and lead citrate for electron microscopic observation. The sections provided the first clear evidence of the small-square-net form, coexisting with the basket-weave pattern, in fish muscle. In previous experiments, we could not demonstrate the small-square-net pattern convincingly with guppy tissue (Yamaguchi et al., 1985a) which may be more susceptible to chemical or physical stress than is trout tissue. The existence of the diverse structural patterns in cross-sections of some, if not all, vertebrate striated muscle must be derived from a basic unit which although it may vary in size among species is structurally identical. The findings agreed with our unified model of narrow and wide Z-line structure (Yamaguchi et al., 1980; Yamaguchi et al., 1985a; Yamaguchi et al., 1985b). PMID- 2514538 TI - Transition state stabilization and enzymic rate acceleration. PMID- 2514539 TI - Possibilities and problems in the research of dynamic enzyme assembly/disassembly. PMID- 2514540 TI - Volume regulatory mechanisms of human granulocytes in hypoosmotic media. AB - Human neutrophil granulocytes, when placed into hypoosmotic media, first swell, than show a regulatory volume decrease (RVD) reaction. This RVD is the most effective at pH 7.5 when inosine is used as a metabolic substrate. The RVD reaction is blocked by the inhibitors of the calcium-induced K+ transport, such as quinine, quinidine, trifluoperazine (TFP), as well as by those of the conductive Cl-transport (dipyridamole, SITS, oligomycin C). Removal of external calcium by EGTA, or addition of the calcium channel inhibitor, verapamil, reduce the RVD. Ouabain affects RVD only after long preincubation and furosemide or phloretin have hardly any effect on this process. In a hypoosmotic KCl medium neutrophils show a TFP-, and SITS-sensitive secondary volume increase. All these data indicate the opening of Ca2+-induced K+ channels and of conductive Cl- channels in hypoosmotically shocked neutrophils. Under these conditions, however, direct measurement of cytoplasmic calcium by Indo-1 does not show any major change in the overall cytoplasmic free Ca2+ levels. In neutrophils, the reduced calcium signal evoked by formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP) after a hypoosmotic shock, suggests that cellular calcium metabolism is altered under these conditions. PMID- 2514541 TI - Effects of medium-term PUVA therapy on peripheral T-lymphocyte subsets in psoriatic patients. AB - Three to four months' PUVA treatment is a widely-adopted procedure to induce psoriasis remission and for the purpose of this study is called "medium-term". The 32 psoriatic patients considered revealed a statistically significant baseline decrease in OKT3+ (p less than 0.001), OKT4+ (p less than 0.001) and OKT8+ (p less than 0.001) as compared with 40 healthy controls, while OKT4/OKT8 was normal. Variance analysis within the psoriatic group failed to reveal further significant variation in the immunological parameters during the 3 months under study. Nevertheless, there was a marked trend towards a reduction in OKT4+ cells and OKT4/OKT8 as compared with baseline values after 3 months. These results suggest that "medium-term" PUVA therapy does not statistically restore the pre existing baseline changes in T-lymphocyte subsets of the psoriatic patients. The non-statistically significant effects as regards OKT4+ may be due to the small number of patients who reached 3 months' treatment (9 patients) but could be regarded as the first step towards the significant changes described here in long term PUVA-treated psoriatic patients. PMID- 2514542 TI - Plasminogen activation in psoriasis. AB - Plasminogen activation is a widely documented physiological phenomenon in which plasminogen activators (mainly urokinase and tissue type plasminogen activator) transform the zymogen plasminogen into the wide-spectrum proteinase plasmin. We show here that psoriatic epidermis is provided with abnormal plasminogen activator activity, mainly dependent on the activity of tissue type plasminogen activator and that this abnormal activity can be reversed with common topical treatments (i.e. anthralin, and 0.1% betamethasone valerate cream). We also report abnormal immunohistochemical localization of plasminogen, urokinase and tissue type plasminogen activator in psoriatic epidermis which returned to normal after the topical treatments. These data suggest a major role of plasminogen activation in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. PMID- 2514543 TI - Diagnostic value of bioactive FSH in male infertility. AB - Bioactive FSH and immunoreactive FSH were determined in 193 infertile men and in 23 men with proven fertility using the Sertoli cell aromatase bioassay for bioactive FSH measurement and a two-site fluoroimmunoassay for immunoreactive FSH measurement. Overall bioactive and immunoreactive FSH levels correlated well (r = 0.74, p less than 0.001) but were significantly different from fertile men (bioactive FSH: 6.2 +/- 0.3 U/l; immunoreactive FSH: 4.1 +/- 0.4 U/l) in patients with Klinefelter's syndrome (24.1 +/- 6.1; 26.9 +/- 3.0), non-obstructive azoospermia (25.1 +/- 4.3; 22.2 +/- 4.0), maldescended testes (12.5 +/- 4.6; 14.6 +/- 1.6), and patients with severe oligozoospermia (11.9 +/- 1.2; 11.2 +/- 1.0). Infertile men with moderate oligozoospermia (8.9 +/- 1.5; 8.0 +/- 1.1) and normal sperm counts (9.6 +/- 1.1; 7.6 +/- 1.0) had insignificantly elevated bioactive FSH and immunoreactive FSH levels. Bioactive to immunoreactive FSH ratios were significantly reduced in all patient groups except for patients with normal sperm counts when compared with fertile men. A considerable number of patients exhibited elevated immunoreactive FSH concomitant with normal bioactive FSH levels. We conclude that 1. determination of immunoreactive FSH suffices for classification of patients; 2. bioactive to immunoreactive FSH ratios are reduced in infertile men; 3. some men might secrete immunoreactive FSH with reduced bioactivity. PMID- 2514544 TI - Controlled release of a GnRH agonist from a polyhydroxybutyric acid implant: reversible suppression of the menstrual cycle in the macaque. AB - The use of polyhydroxybutyric acid as a matrix for delivery of the GnRH agonist buserelin was studied in adult stumptailed macaques with regular menstrual cycles. This material contained 5.0 mg buserelin in a disk of 0.6 cm diameter and 0.15 cm thickness. The effects on pituitary-ovarian function were examined and buserelin release profiles from 30,000 and 150,000 molecular weight polyhydroxybutyric acid matrices were compared. In an attempt to reduce the high initial release rate of buserelin from these disks, and to prolong the effective period of release, implants of 30,000 molecular weight were coated with cyanoacrylate. The implants were removed after 28, 35 or 42 days for the 30,000, the 150,000 and the coated implants, respectively. The urinary excretion profile for the agonist revealed a high initial release of buserelin from these implants followed by a rapid decline. The coated disks released significantly less (p less than 0.05) buserelin over the first 3 days than did either of the uncoated implants, but maintained release of the agonist over a longer period. Inhibition of ovulation and suppression of estradiol secretion lasted for the duration of treatment in 3 of 5 macaques receiving the 30,000 implant, and in 5 of 5 receiving the 150,000 or the coated implant. In 3 macaques in whom the coated implant was left in situ, ovulation was suppressed for 104 +/- 3.7 days. These results demonstrate that a polyhydroxybutyric acid matrix can be used as a depot formulation for a GnRH agonist and that improved control of release of the agonist can be achieved by coating such implants with cyanoacrylate. This approach may be useful in experimental and clinical situations and may be applicable for delivery of other peptide hormones. PMID- 2514545 TI - Detection of islet cell specificity of monoclonal islet cell surface antibodies by means of double-staining immunofluorescence. AB - We have generated monoclonal antibodies (mcab) reactive with islet cell surface antigens. 10 different mcab were characterized regarding their islet cell binding specificity by means of a modified double immunofluorescence test. At this assay, the monoclonal islet cell surface antibodies were visualized on rat islet cells by indirect immunofluorescence with fluorescein isothiocyanate-labelled antibodies against mouse immunoglobulin. The alpha and beta cell specificity was determined by indirect immunofluorescence using anti-glucagon or anti-insulin serum and a tetramethyl rhodamine isothiocyanate-labelled second antibody. The target islet cell suspension used contained 61% beta and 23% alpha cells. The monoclonal antibody K28D6 preferentially reacted with alpha cells. The binding of K29aC6 and K56aF3 indicates a high specificity against beta cells. The remaining 7 antibodies were reactive with alpha as well as with beta cells. PMID- 2514547 TI - Improvement of accuracy of scanning absorption measurement of nuclear DNA content in plants. AB - The effect of optical errors and stain variation on the accuracy of plant Feulgen DNA absorption cytophotometry was investigated. Optical errors (glare, distributional error, and diffraction) were shown to cause important errors. A correction procedure of DUIJNDAM et al. (1980a) was successfully applied to eliminate them. Stain variation can also lead to serious errors and in case different samples are to be compared the use of an internal standard is imperative. Chicken red blood cells proved to be a reliable standard. PMID- 2514546 TI - Topo-optical studies of gradually disintegrated erythrocyte membrane derivates: different kinds of ghosts. AB - Several kinds of ghosts from human erythrocytes (blood-group A1D) were investigated by the topo-optical Toluidine-Blue (TB) reaction. In comparison to intact cells, all ghosts demonstrated a decreased TB-anisotropy. These results reflect an altered glycocalyx structure of ghosts, especially conformational changes of the TB-binding N-terminal extracellular segments of the glycophorines. It was assumed that this structural glycocalyx alteration was caused by substantial losses of membrane skeleton components during the ghost preparation. Moreover, disturbed molecular interactions between the membrane skeleton and the glycocalyx may contribute to this effect. Therefore, the glycocalyx and the membrane structure of ghosts in general are significantly different from the membrane of the intact erythrocyte. The experiments show that the effects of the reconstitution procedures for ghost membranes are restricted to a reconstitution of a defined membrane function (i.e. dynamic barrier for monovalent cations) in a widely disturbed membrane structure. PMID- 2514548 TI - Submicroscopic localization of glycogen in mouse blastocysts developed in vivo and in blastocysts developed in vitro from two-cell embryos. AB - Ultrahistochemical method according to Thiery (1967) was used to determine the occurrence and localization of glycogen in blastocysts developed in vivo and in blastocysts developed from 2-cell embryos of the mouse for 62 to 64 h in in vitro culture. The presence of glycogen was found in blastocysts of both experimental groups. Glycogen had a monoparticulate character, i.e. the form of beta-granules, localized above all in the ground cytoplasm of cells. Their size varied from 10 to 30 nm. In the blastocysts developed in the physiological uterine environment the glycogen content was relatively low, trophoblasts cells containing regularly a higher amount of glycogen particles than embryoblast cells. In the blastocysts developed in the culture medium in the presence of currently used energy sources the distribution and content of glycogen were clearly graded according to the cell types. Compared with the in vivo-blastocysts, an abnormally high amount of glycogen was observed in the cytoplasm of trophoblast cells, a medium amount in the prospective endoderm cells and the minimum amount in the prospective ectoderm cells. The authors are of the opinion that differences in the accumulation of glycogen and its occurrence in the individual cells are in connection with their position in the blastocyst and with their relation to the surrounding microenvironment. It can be judged from the findings of glycogen deposits inside autophagic vacuoles and multivesicular bodies as well as inside extracellular located sacs that simultaneously with glycogen accumulation there also proceeds its partial degradation in lysosomal structures of blastocyst cells. PMID- 2514549 TI - [Connective tissue of the human fallopian tube mucosa--polarization microscopic detection of collagen using Solaminrot 4B]. AB - The Picrosirius-polarization method was applied to the selective morphological collagen detection in the human uterine tube. Solaminrot 4B (VEB Chemiekombinat Bitterfeld) was used as dyestuff which enhances the normal birefringency of collagen fibrous material in tissue sections. The results show that the connective tissue of the lamina propria mucosae consists of collagen fibres, namely considerably. The mucosal folds of uterine tubes of younger individuals contain delicate, weaker birefringent fibres stained yellowish-red and red orange. The folds of oviducts of ageing individuals composed of compact, strong birefringent collagen fibrous material stained intensely red, red-orange, and yellow. This is characteristic of organs in the pre- and postmenopausal periods and in the senium. The findings suggest that the fibrous structures detected selectively in the oviductal mucosa by combinative method of Picrosolamin staining and polarization microscopy are distinct collagen fibres. The delicate, weaker birefringent fibres could correspond with collagen type III and the thicker, stronger birefringent ones could represent collagen type I. PMID- 2514550 TI - Histochemical demonstration of primary amino groups with 2-hydroxy-1 naphthaldehyde (HNA): optimization of the method. AB - 2-hydroxy-1-naphthaldehyde (HNA) was used for the histochemical demonstration of primary amino groups. The Schiff-bases formed exhibited a double-banded maximum absorption at lambda = 420 nm and lambda = 400 nm, respectively. The dependence of the equilibrium of the Schiff-base formation upon the concentration of HNA, the reaction medium, especially upon its pH-value, was investigated with Ehrlich ascites tumour cells and rat liver parenchymal cells. Optimum conditions were elaborated for the histochemical reaction running either in absolute ethanol (HNA EtOH) or in a mixture of ethanol and acetate buffer pH = 4 (HNA-pH4), the equilibrium of the reactions adjusted after 10 d and 1 d, respectively. The HNA pH4-method can be used for the histochemical demonstration of primary alpha-, delta-, and epsilon-amino groups of proteins. The HNA-EtOH-method comprises primary amino groups of proteins and of other substances insoluble in absolute ethanol. Both histochemical methods proved to be reproducible. PMID- 2514551 TI - Management of peritoneal carcinomatosis. AB - Gastrointestinal malignancies frequently recur with metastatic disease limited to the abdominal cavity. Due to full thickness penetration of tumor through bowel wall and spillage of tumor from lymphatic channels by surgical trauma, tumor cells are disseminated throughout the peritoneal surfaces either prior to at the time of surgical removal of the primary tumor. Diagnosis of recurrent cancer is difficult because no sensitive diagnostic test is available by which to image a small tumor volume present on peritoneal surfaces. Computerized tomography can not demonstrate small to moderate nodules. Intraperitoneal instillation of 131-1 labeled monoclonal antibody has allowed visualization of mucinous tumor on peritoneal surfaces not seen by any other radiologic test. Intraperitoneal chemotherapy has been shown to provide palliation in patients with small volume disease confined to peritoneal surfaces. Because of limited penetration of chemotherapy into large tumor nodules this treatment strategy has not been effective for bulky intraabdominal recurrent cancer. Cytoreductive surgery can make patients relatively disease free. New surgical technologies combined with postoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy have been shown to be curative for selected patients with recurrent cystadenocarcinoma. The wider application of immediate postoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy treatments for gastrointestinal patients in an adjuvant setting may be of value in preventing the occurrence of peritoneal carcinomatosis and in improving survival. PMID- 2514552 TI - Novel approaches to intraperitoneal drug delivery. AB - The prolonged continuous intraperitoneal infusion of cytoarabin was studied in 28 courses. Only 9 courses were completed for the full period of 3 weeks. No cytoarabin was detected in the plasma of patients on any of these courses. The combination of intraperitoneal administration of methotrexate and dipyridamole did not show a synergistic interaction of these 2 substances. However, the addition of dipyridamole to etoposide showed a clear synergy between these 2 substances studied on a human ovarian carcinoma cell line. PMID- 2514553 TI - Neurovisceral sphingomyelinosis in a Siamese cat. AB - This report presents the clinical, morphological and biochemical findings on an 11-month-old female Siamese cat with neurovisceral sphingomyelinosis. Gross pathological features and histochemical findings are compared with the human disease counterpart and the previously described animal models. Hepatomegaly was observed while splenomegaly was not. Although sphingomyelin in liver and spleen was biochemically elevated, histochemical results in this case were slightly different from those previously recorded in human and feline Niemann-Pick disease. These results suggest that this feline case might be a different type of animal Niemann-Pick disease to that reported previously. PMID- 2514555 TI - Breast feeding: its social, clinical and biological aspects. PMID- 2514554 TI - Calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D needs of low birthweight infants on various feedings. PMID- 2514556 TI - Support and variation, the needs of the breast-feeding woman. AB - A basic pattern for human beings is the support given to the mother during delivery and for a period postpartum. One function of this universally recognized need is to assure the success of breast-feeding. The position of the supportive person--the doula--who works with the mother during this period is examined in this presentation. The quantitative difference in the amount of support needed by different women during this period is discussed. In the United States the role of the father is changing dramatically. Men are present at the birth of their children and are expressing more tenderness towards their wife and children. The possibility of such change of role for Japan is of concern. Studies of over 200 cultures have shown the enormous variety in patterns of care for the mother during and after delivery. The author suggests that each mother has a unique rhythm of her own and that sensitivity to each individual woman's needs might enrich her first experiences with her child. PMID- 2514557 TI - Socio-cultural aspects of breast-feeding in an affluent society. PMID- 2514558 TI - Maternal health, breast-feeding and infant nutrition in Australian aborigines. AB - Undernutrition is widespread in Australian Aboriginal infants and children and is associated with high rates of infections, particularly of the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems. Maternal ill-health and undernutrition seem to be neglected factors which contribute to the high incidence of low birthweight in Aboriginal babies and to their poor growth in the first five years of life. More effective preventive programmes are needed to help overcome these problems. PMID- 2514559 TI - Protection and promotion of breastfeeding. PMID- 2514560 TI - Breast-feeding practices in rural Karnataka (India) with special reference to lactation failure. AB - A survey was done in a remote rural area of Karnataka with a questionnaire. Overall 274 lactating mothers from a population of 10,000 were interviewed, to know the practices of breast-feeding with special reference to lactation failure. It was found that the majority of the mothers (97.09%) in rural areas breast feed. Lactation failure is not a problem. 58.4% reject colostrum but know the advantages of breast-feeding while a small number of mothers (19.8%) start supplementary feeds by three months of age. However, 80.3% of mothers breast-feed up to 12 months. Burping (44.53%) and proper posturing (92%) of the child is not being practiced. Initiation of breast-feeding within 4-6 hours was noted only in 8.03% of mothers whereas 53.07% of mothers and 9.72% of mothers started sugar water and castor oil as prelacteal feedings respectively. It is interesting to note that grandparents (21.9%) and auxiliary nurse midwives (21.9%) are the chief influencers of breast-feeding. PMID- 2514561 TI - Breast-feeding and fertility in Macau. AB - That fact that only a small percentage of women in Macau breast-feed induced the need to investigate this attitude. In collaboration with the Maternal & Child Health Division of the W.H.O., Geneva, it was decided that a methodology which had already been applied in other places should be used to investigate the relation between breast-feeding and fertility. In this way, information was obtained about the situation, within a given period of time which permitted a description of the duration of amenorrhea due to breast-feeding, as well as the patterns of frequency and duration of breast-feeding. PMID- 2514562 TI - Promoting breast-feeding--a successful regional project in Japan. AB - According to Health and Welfare Ministry figures (1985), 95% of pregnant women wished to breast-feed their baby, and the number of breast-fed newborns is increasing annually. Nevertheless, the Ministry reports that only 49.5% of one month-old babies are still being breast-fed. In 1977, Ina Health Center established Mother-Baby Clinics, offering education about breast-feeding. The Center also started research in 1983, with the cooperation of the Kami-Ina Public Health Nurses' Association, into infant feeding styles. Since then, the local breast-feeding rate has risen well above the national average. This paper presents practical guidance toward encouraging successful breast-feeding. First, timely advice must be offered to pregnant women, to establish a correct understanding of the importance of breast-feeding. The mother's strong intention is a major factor, as is support from people around her--family, employer, health care professionals. The most important period for establishing breast-feeding is the first three months. Adequate milk secretion, good breast condition, and proper sucking are also crucial. Education and further research are still needed. PMID- 2514563 TI - Breast-feeding from the viewpoint of maternal and child health education. AB - Seeing the changes in breast-feeding and the sources of advice on that knowledge, I make reference to the necessity of breast-feeding education and point out the problems that we must take into account, in the case of carrying forward breast feeding education. PMID- 2514564 TI - Possible biological growth factors in breast milk and postnatal development of the gastrointestinal tract. AB - To investigate as to whether or not biological growth factors known to be present in natural milks could influence postnatal development of gastrointestinal (GI) tract, tests were made to determine the enteric mucosal, protein and DNA contents, alkaline phosphatase and disaccharidase activities in mongrel puppies at birth and after four days of both mother-reared and artificial reared. Microvilli of the jejunal segment were also investigated histologically by electron microscopy. Similar increases in body weight over the first four days of life were obtained and mucosal protein and DNA contents in the small intestine were greater in the mother-reared animals than in the newborn animals but neither mucosal protein content nor DNA content of the artificially reared animals was different from that of the newborn animals. Alkaline phosphatase activity was greater in both the mother-reared and artificially reared animals than that of the newborn animals. The disaccharidase activities were not different among the three groups. The jejunal microvilli of the mother-reared animals were more elaborately grown in the structure than those of the artificially reared or newborn animals. Therefore, this study demonstrated that the mother rearing over the first four days of life resulted in acceleration of the enteric mucosal growth, and the result indicates that breast feeding plays an important role in the development of the GI tract during the neonatal period. PMID- 2514565 TI - The significance of breast milk biotinidase. AB - Biotinidase (EC 3.5.1.12) activity in human breast milk was first demonstrated by us, using a newly developed method. The enzyme activity was relatively low compared with that in human serum. However, its activity increased significantly with thiol-reactive agents. Taurine and glutathione also enhanced the enzyme activity considerably. From these results, we speculate that biotinidase in milk would be protected from various inactivation-mechanisms in the same manner as milk lipase. Biotinidase might play an important role in the intestinal absorption of the indispensable vitamin, biotin, during infancy, when enzymes in the pancreatic juice are still immature. PMID- 2514566 TI - Milk-borne transmission of HTLV-I as a major route in the endemic cycle. AB - Mother-to-child transmission of HTLV-I as a major route in the endemic cycle of HTLV-I was established by epidemiologic evidence that (1) 22% (17/78) of children of HTLV-I carrier mothers were themselves carriers, in contrast to approximately 1% of the young age population of the same area, (2) more than 95% (23/24) of mothers of carrier children were themselves carriers, and (3) the product of the prevalence of carrier mothers and the incidence of carriers in children born to them corresponded well to the prevalence of carrier children in the same area. Intrauterine infection was not likely, since none of over 200 cord bloods of babies born to carrier mothers showed infection markers, such as IgM antibody or viral antigens. The possibility of milk-borne transmission was supported by (1) the presence of sufficient numbers of infected T-cells in the milk of carrier mothers, (2) the fact that a common marmoset was found to be a carrier after oral administration of the milk of carrier mothers, and (3) a retrospective analysis which revealed that none of nine babies fed only compound milk were carriers. An ongoing intervention study showed that none of 47 babies whose mothers refrained from breast feeding had seroconverted at 12 months of age. Compound milk feeding by carrier mothers seems to be an effective measure to reduce dramatically the infection rate of HTLV-I. PMID- 2514567 TI - Vitamin K prevention of neonatal and late neonatal bleeding. PMID- 2514568 TI - How suitable is human milk for pre-term babies? AB - Optimum nutrition for pre-term babies can be defined as that which permits satisfactory growth and health in the short term, free from metabolic problems and infection, and in the long-term fulfillment of growth and neuro-developmental potential. This paper examines how human milk meets these requirements. The composition of the various types of human milk available to the pre-term baby is described along with their short-term influences on early growth, infection, necrotising enterocolitis and protein allergy and long-term effects on physical size and neuro-psychological function. The conclusion reached is that while admitting that human milk will often fail to meet some of the special nutritional needs of small pre-term babies, there is as yet insufficient evidence to discourage its feeding to these babies. Its antimicrobial properties, potential immunological benefits and possible advantages to body (and brain) composition justify its continued use, particularly in those parts of the world where risks of neonatal infection are high. PMID- 2514569 TI - Human milk for low birthweight infants: immunology, nutrition and newer practical technologies. AB - Human milk has a number of unique properties which can be of benefit to high risk low birthweight and preterm infants. Immunological features are of particular importance. Growth is better with the use of the mother's own milk than with pooled bank milk. The quality of the latter can be improved by various measures noted in the text. Growth can be further improved by enriching the milk with human milk factors, powder formula or protein supplements. As breast-feeding is best for infants, the maternal milk supply should be maintained during the hospital stay of infants by frequent expression, galactogogues used where necessary under supervision, encouraging maternal contact with the infant, promotion of suckling initially on the "empty" breast after expression of milk, and subsequently institution of direct breast-feeding. With proper interventions and motivation of both staff and mothers, even very low birthweight infants below 1,500 gm can go on, in time, to exclusive breast-feeding. PMID- 2514570 TI - Possible role of Streptococcus pyogenes in mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome. VIII. Immunological tolerance to S. pyogenes-associated antigens seems essential to induction of MCLS. AB - In our previous studies, we attempted to show that new-born mice infected with an attenuated strain of Streptococcus pyogenes, and exposed to streptococcal antigens approximately one month later, failed to develop a humoral response to those antigens but were able to respond normally to other unrelated antigens. Since such immunological characteristics are identical to those of patients with the mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome (MCLS), the present studies were performed with the aim of assessing the antibody-forming activities of peripheral blood lymphocytes collected from MCLS patients. These lymphocytes were cultured in the presence of pokeweed mitogen, streptolysin-O and streptococcal C-polysaccharide, leading to their refractoriness to S. pyogenes-associated antigens coupled with normal responsiveness to unrelated antigens. The implication of such immunological responsiveness elicited from neonatal exposure to streptococcal antigens is discussed, particularly with reference to the induction of MCLS. PMID- 2514571 TI - Mean cellular volume of urinary red blood cells in investigation of hematuria. AB - The mean cellular volume (MCV) of urinary red blood cells (RBCs) of pediatric patients with glomerular (group I; n = 52) and nonglomerular (group II; n = 21) hematuria was determined using an automated blood-cell analyzer. Group I patients had a significantly lower MCV than group II (61 +/- 8 vs. 88 +/- 15 microns 3, mean +/- SD; p less than 0.001). With a MCV of 75 microns 3 taken as the dividing line between glomerular and nonglomerular hematuria, correct assessment of the site of bleeding was made in 67 of the 73 (92%) patients studied. Determination of the MCV of urinary RBCs is a simple noninvasive test for localizing the site of hematuria in pediatric patients. PMID- 2514572 TI - Clinical and electroencephalographic studies of postencephalitic epilepsy. AB - We retrospectively reviewed the clinical features and results of investigation of 62 patients with acute encephalitis or encephalopathy in the acute phase to identify the prognostic factors in the development of postencephalitic epilepsy. Patients who later developed epilepsy showed more marked disturbance of consciousness, convulsions, and seizure activities on EEG during the acute phase than those who did not. There was no relation between CSF abnormalities and postencephalitic epilepsy. Control of convulsions during the acute phase, especially of status epilepticus, seems to be important to improve the prognosis. PMID- 2514573 TI - Henoch-Schonlein purpura after measles immunization. AB - A three-year-old boy developed Henoch-Schonlein purpura after measles immunization. To our knowledge Henoch-Schonlein purpura in this setting has not been previously reported. This case illustrates that measles vaccine can act as an inducing factor Henoch-Schonlein purpura. PMID- 2514574 TI - Concurrent poststreptococcal acute glomerulonephritis and Schonlein-Henoch purpura. AB - A 5-year-old Japanese boy developed concurrent poststreptococcal acute glomerulonephritis (PSAGN) and Schonlein-Henoch purpura (SHP). An elevated titer of ASK on admission confirmed the preceding streptococcal infection. Arthritis of the left knee and petechiae on admission were regarded as features of SHP. The presence of SHP was further confirmed by the pathological finding of leukocytoclastic vasculitis in the skin. PSAGN was strongly suspected due to the findings of microscopic hematuria and hypocomplementemia in the acute phase. The concurrence of SHP and PSAGN suggests similar underlying pathophysiological processes as poststreptococcal sequelae. At the height of the illness, peripheral blood lymphocyte subset analysis showed a marked increase in the suppressor inducer T subset and a reciprocal decrease in the helper T subset. This alteration in T lymphocyte subsets was regarded as indicative of the immunological derangement in this patient. PMID- 2514575 TI - Congenital anterior urethral diverticulum and recurrent urinary tract infection. AB - A patient with congenital anterior urethral diverticulum is described. He showed recurrent lower urinary tract infection, but he did not have severe upper urinary tract abnormalities. One-stage resection and urethroplasty were successfully performed before the upper urinary tract change developed. Anterior urethral diverticulum should be considered as a cause of recurrent lower urinary tract infection in young children. PMID- 2514577 TI - Autogenic training as an effective treatment for reflex neurovascular dystrophy: a case report. AB - A 15-year-old girl complained of swelling and shooting pains in the right upper extremity, which had bothered her for seven months. Physical examination revealed swelling, cyanosis, weakness and hyperesthesia over the entire right upper extremity. Serological and biochemical data were within normal limits. She was diagnosed as having reflex neurovascular dystrophy (RND). Psychological problems with school and her family might have contributed to the pathogenesis of the disease. With autogenic training (AT), remission was obtained within eighteen months. PMID- 2514576 TI - Neonatal intracerebral teratoma. AB - A neonate, who presented with a large head but no neurological abnormalities, was diagnosed by ultrasound and CT scan as having a brain tumor. The pathological diagnosis was teratoma with matured tissues. The literature is briefly reviewed and the clinical manifestations and histological classification are documented. PMID- 2514578 TI - Atherosclerosis and endothelium. Part II. Properties of aortic endothelial and smooth muscle cells cultured at various ambient pressures. AB - Human aortic endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells (SMCs) were cultured at various ambient pressures and their properties were examined. The following results were obtained. 1) Endothelial cells were damaged when cultured at higher ambient pressures of 80 and 160 mmHg. This left cellular islands with central confluence showing no evident growth because of strong contact inhibition. 2) Aortic endothelial cells released high levels of prostacyclin, with significantly elevated release at higher ambient pressures, while intimal SMCs released a small amount of prostacyclin, and medial SMCs a minimal amount. 3) Prostacyclin release by aortic endothelial cells was inhibited in the presence of low concentrations of linoleic acid hydroperoxide (LAHO). Intimal and medial SMCs, however, showed no LAHO inhibition. These results indicate that the properties of both endothelial cells and SMCs vary according to in vitro and probably in vivo conditions. Their specific roles in the pathogenesis of various vascular disorders including atherosclerosis should be carefully considered. PMID- 2514579 TI - [Determination of flecainide concentration in blood plasma by HPLC and pharmacokinetic parameters in volunteers]. AB - A high performance liquid chromatographic method (ultraviolet detection) for the determination of flecainide concentration in human plasma was reported. Flurazepam (dalmadorm) was used as the internal standard. A mixture of methanol and deionized water containing ion paired reagent served as the mobile phase. The regression equation of flecainide was: y = 0.0017x + 0.0131, r = 0.9975. The extraction recoveries exceeded 94%, and the coefficients of variation (both within the same day and in different days) were less than 5%. The pharmacokinetic parameters in Chinese volunteers after taking flecainide were: Ka = 0.908h-1, T1/2 = 8.131h, peats time = 3.487h, AUC = 441.8ng.h/ml. The mean plasma concentration of flecainide in cases responded well to this drug was 423.6 +/- 227.4ng/ml. PMID- 2514580 TI - Inhibition of bone resorption by alpha-difluoromethylornithine may not be mediated by polyamine depletion. AB - We have examined the effect of alpha-difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) on bone polyamine content and parathyroid hormone (PTH)- and calcitriol-stimulated bone resorption in cultures of neonatal mouse calvaria. Polyamine content in bone homogenates was determined by reverse-phase paired-ion HPLC. Treatment with 5 mM DFMO for 48 h reduced putrescine from 0.4 nmol/bone to nondetectable levels, slightly decreased spermidine, and did not affect spermine. Bone resorption elicited by 48 h of treatment with PTH or calcitriol was inhibited by concentrations of DFMO greater than or equal to 5 mM added 48 h prior to hormone. This observation supported the concept that polyamines may play a role in bone resorption. However, other observations cast uncertainty on this conclusion. Measurement of calvarial polyamine content at 2 h intervals revealed no increase in endogenous polyamines for up to 10.5 h after calcitriol addition. Although addition of putrescine restored bone polyamine content, exogenous polyamines failed to reverse the inhibitory effects of DFMO on calcitriol-stimulated resorption. These results suggest that a mechanism other than depletion of polyamines could be contributing to the inhibitory effect of DFMO on resorption. PMID- 2514581 TI - Role of endogenous vasodilator prostaglandins in the proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells of spontaneously hypertensive rats. PMID- 2514582 TI - Changes in complement components after intravascular application of contrast media. PMID- 2514583 TI - The role of bradykinin on the effect of plasma kallikrein on platelet aggregation. PMID- 2514584 TI - Comparative studies on fast acting PA-inhibitors from pig and human peripheral leucocytes. PMID- 2514585 TI - Developing a gonococcal protein I vaccine. PMID- 2514586 TI - Heterogeneity of the toxic mechanisms of methylthioadenosine in methylthioadenosine phosphorylase deficient murine lymphoma cells. PMID- 2514587 TI - Utilization of 2'-deoxynad for ADP-ribose transfer reactions. AB - 2'-deoxyNAD was examined as a substrate for both mono(ADP-ribosyl)ation and poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation reactions. 2'-deoxyNAD is a substrate for the diphtheria toxin-catalyzed mono(ADP-ribosyl)ation of elongation factor-2, inactivating its function to enhance protein synthesis. On the other hand, 2'-deoxyNAD is a poor substrate for poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase. 2'-deoxyNAD was not synthesized intracellularly from deoxyATP, even when deoxyATP content was markedly increased by incubation of cells with deoxyadenosine and an adenosine deaminase inhibitor. 2'-deoxyNAD, because of its specificity, could be a quite useful reagent for the investigation of cellular mono(ADP-ribosyl)ation reactions. PMID- 2514588 TI - Reduced purine nucleotide content and poly(ADP-ribose) synthetase activity in HPRT-deficient human lymphoblasts. PMID- 2514589 TI - Characterization of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase with human autoantibodies. PMID- 2514590 TI - Deoxy GTP accumulates in thymocytes, but not in T or B lymphocytes in simulated PNP deficiency. PMID- 2514591 TI - Selective toxicity of purine nucleosides to human leukaemic cells. AB - The in vitro cytotoxicity of various purine nucleosides and purine enzyme inhibitors, alone or in combination, and of the alkylating agent mafosfamide (Asta Z7557), incubated for 4 and 24 h have been studied in 17 leukaemic cell lines and normal bone marrow (BM). The purine nucleosides and their analogues included: 2'chlorodeoxyadenosine (CdA), 2'deoxyadenosine (AdR), 3'deoxyadenosine (3'AdR) (cordycepin), adenosine (AR), adenine arabinoside (Ara-A), deoxyguanosine (GdR) and guanine arabinoside (Ara-G). Purine enzyme inhibitors included 2 deoxycoformycin (dCF) and 8-aminoguanosine (8-AG). Cytotoxicity was based on inhibition of (i) incorporation of 3H-leucine into cell proteins and (ii) colony forming units--granulocytic/monocytic (CFU-GM) and for mixed cell colonies (CFU GEMM). Marked and selective inhibition of T-cell growth was shown by the combinations dCF with either AdR or Ara-A, 8-AG and GdR and by CdA or Ara-G alone; these compounds even at high concentrations produced only partial inhibition of the growth of normal bone marrow CFU-GM and CFU-GEMM except for CdA which completely inhibited the formation of CFU-GEMM colonies. The combination dCF + cordycepin and alkylating agent mafosfamide were, however, toxic to all the cell lines at the concentrations employed, as well as to CFU-GM and CFU-GEMM. The high therapeutic index of some of the purine nucleosides with a relatively short exposure time makes them candidates for selective in vitro removal of residual neoplastic cells in autologous bone marrow transplantation (ABMT) for T-ALL. PMID- 2514592 TI - [Ciliary body changes associate with aldose reductase in galactosemic rats]. AB - Morphological changes of the ciliary body epithelium in rats fed a 50% galactose diet for 10 months with or without aldose reductase inhibitor (ARI) were investigated by both light microscopic observation and measurement of cell size. Aldose reductase was immunohistochemically observed to be present in non pigmented epithelial cells of ciliary body and structural change (hypertrophy) was observed only in non-pigmented epithelial cells of galactosemic rats. In contrast, no hypertrophic changes were seen in rats fed with ARI. These results strongly suggest that aldose reductase is associated with hypertrophic change of non-pigmented epithelial cells of the ciliary body. PMID- 2514593 TI - Sensitivity to aspirin--methods of detection of sensitivity and inducing tolerance state to aspirin. AB - The paper deals with various methods of detection of bronchoconstrictor and urticaria/angioedema types of sensitivity to aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drugs. The authors consider that anamnesis plays the major part in detection of sensitivity to these drugs. Oral challenge tests should be applied only with the use of acetylsalicylic acid administered at small, increasing doses at intervals not shorter than 24 h. Tolerance to aspirin is elicited using aspirin at 24 hour intervals, beginning with a threshold dose. The authors prefer, however, their own method where a subthreshold dose is the initial one. The protective role of sodium salicylate against aspirin-induced bronchoconstriction is also discussed. PMID- 2514594 TI - Neurofibromatosis-2 and bilateral acoustic neuromas: distinctions from neurofibromatosis-1 (von Recklinghausen's disease). AB - Although acknowledged as separate entities in the neurologic literature, central neurofibromatosis and peripheral neurofibromatosis, which is also known as von Recklinghausen's disease, have not been commonly distinguished by otologists as two separate diseases. An NIH Conference statement has reclassified these diseases as neurofibromatosis-1 and neurofibromatosis-2. Genetic, biochemical, and clinical variants of these two related diseases are presented and discussed. Patients with bilateral acoustic neuromas may have either the central or peripheral form of the disease; central neurofibromatosis is much more rare than the peripheral form of the disease. PMID- 2514595 TI - Effects of sulfonamides on a metabolite-regulated ATPi-sensitive K+ channel in rat pancreatic B-cells. AB - Intracellular ATP (ATPi)-sensitive K+ [K+(ATP)] channels are now a recognized site of action of clinically useful hypoglycemic and hyperglycemic sulfonamides. We have further examined the action of these agents on single K+ channels in rat pancreatic B-cells 1) Tolbutamide and glyburide, two hypoglycemic sulfonylureas which decrease K+(ATP) channel activity in the cell-attached patch, affect the kinetics of K+(ATP) channel in a manner similar to glucose. They shorten the duration of the "burst," or cluster of open channel events, while lengthening the intervals between bursts. 2) The hyperglycemic vasodilator diazoxide increases mean K+(ATP) channel activity in the cell-attached patch as well as in the inside out excised patch exposed to ATPi. It appears to lengthen channel bursts and shorten the intervals between them. Two structurally similar diuretics, hydrochlorothiazide and furosemide, which have mild hyperglycemic effects, do not increase K+(ATP) channel activity even at clinically toxic concentrations. 3) Neither the sulfonylureas nor diazoxide directly affect the activity of single delayed rectifier K+ channels or single calcium and voltage-activated K+ channels in normal B-cells. PMID- 2514596 TI - In vitro adsorption losses of arachidonic acid and calcium ionophore A23187. AB - Arachidonic acid (AA) is often utilized in in vitro studies to label cellular pools of AA or to elicit cellular responses dependent on eicosanoid production. Because of the hydrophobic nature of AA, organic diluents such as ethanol or dimethyl sulfoxide are utilized in preparing concentrated solutions. The fate of AA when added to aqueous medium is not generally considered because of the dilution of the AA, although some investigators utilize bovine serum albumin (BSA) to solubilize as well as to trap AA and its hydrophobic metabolites. These experiments demonstrate a rapid and progressive decline in AA concentration when added to aqueous media in tissue baths and in glass test tubes. The extent of the decline was greater in the tissue baths than in the test tubes. The calcium ionophore A23187, which is used to stimulate AA metabolism, is also hydrophobic, and its concentration also decreased when added to aqueous media. The decline in the concentration of both AA and A23187 was due to adsorption to the container walls. The presence of 1% BSA in the aqueous solution attenuated and even eliminated the decline in the concentration, indicating binding of the two agents to the protein. However, the presence of BSA in culture medium inhibited the A23187-induced stimulation of AA metabolites in baboon aortic smooth muscle cells. These results underscore the complexities arising from the in vitro use of hydrophobic substances in biological systems. PMID- 2514597 TI - Mitochondrial carbonic anhydrase is involved in rat renal glucose synthesis. AB - At 37 degrees C, pH 7.4, carbonic anhydrase activity (kenz) of disrupted rat renal proximal tubules and cortical mitochondria was 2.5 +/- 0.8 (n = 3) and 0.15 +/- 0.40 (n = 3) ml.mg-1.s-1, respectively. Turnover number for renal mitochondrial carbonic anhydrase (CA V) was 24,000 s-1. CA V activity of intact mitochondria was completely inhibited by 0.15 microM ethoxzolamide (EZ). Intact proximal tubules, prepared from 48-h starved male rats, were incubated at 37 degrees C in 10 mM pyruvate in Krebs-Henseleit bicarbonate saline buffer, 5% CO2 95% O2. The rate of glucose synthesis over 60 min was reduced 50% by including 0.6 microM EZ in the incubation solution. The concentration of NaHCO3 was doubled to 50 mM (with a corresponding decrease in NaCl) and the solution gassed with 10% CO2-90% O2; 2.4 microM EZ no longer decreased glucose synthesis. It was concluded that inhibition of glucose synthesis by EZ was directly a result of inhibiting the carbonic anhydrases. The rate of glucose production was subsequently determined with tubules incubating in a HCO3(-)-free N-2-hydroxyethylpiperazine N'-2-ethane-sulfonic acid (HEPES) buffer; this rate was decreased 50% by 0.6 microM EZ. These data support the hypotheses that CA V provides HCO3- for pyruvate carboxylase and that CO2 can be provided by tubular metabolism. Intact tubules were incubated in from 5 to 20 mM pyruvate in either 25 or 50 mM HCO3-; in either buffer, the rate of glucose synthesis was similar, increasing with increasing pyruvate concentration. At no pyruvate concentration was there a change in the rate of glucose production when tubules were incubated in 50 mM HCO3- buffer with 1.6 microM EZ. These data also support the hypothesis that CA V provides the HCO3- substrate for pyruvate carboxylation when there is a high rate of intracellular CO2 production and external CO2 is low. It is further concluded that the cytosolic carbonic anhydrase (CA II) and the membrane-bound carbonic anhydrase (CA IV) are not involved in glucose synthesis from pyruvate. PMID- 2514598 TI - Synthesis and characterization of fluorescein- and rhodamine-labeled probes for vasotocin receptors. AB - Fluorescent analogues of vasotocin, [1-(beta-mercaptopropionic acid), 9-(p aminofluoresceinylphenylalanine)]arginine vasotocin [[MPA1, (p-NH2flu)Phe9]AVT] and [1-(beta'-mercaptopropionic acid), 9-(p-amino rhodaminylphenylalanine)]AVT [[MPA1, (p-NH2rhod)-Phe9]AVT], were synthesized by the solid-phase method. These compounds yielded half-maximal hydrosmotic responses (half-maximal values) in the toad urinary bladder at 2 X 10(-9) M. Epifluorescence microscopy showed punctate basal localization of analogues on the majority of bladder epithelial cells within 20 min. The cellular localization was prevented by vasotocin. These fluorescent analogues may serve as useful probes for vasotocin receptors in toad bladder and in tissues from other species that use vasotocin as their antidiuretic-pressor hormone. PMID- 2514599 TI - Norepinephrine inhibits islet lipid metabolism, 45Ca2+ uptake, and insulin secretion. AB - We have previously shown that palmitate potentiates, in isolated islets, glucose induced stimulation of insulin release, "de novo" lipid synthesis, and 45Ca2+ turnover in a correlative manner. Norepinephrine, a known inhibitor of the secretory response, has now been used to further investigate the relationships among the three phenomena. The amine decreased insulin secretion dose dependently in response to glucose and palmitate with alpha 2-adrenergic specificity. It also reduced similarly the oxidation of 1 mmol/l [U-14C]palmitate as well as the incorporation of 20 mmol/l D-[U-14C]glucose into islet phospholipids and neutral lipids through an alpha 2-adrenergic mechanism. These results indirectly suggest that alpha 2-adrenoceptor stimulation inhibits in islets both palmitate oxidation and esterification through an inactivation of long-chain acyl-CoA synthetase and other enzymes of glycerolipid synthesis. Islet uptake of 45Ca2+ was also decreased by norepinephrine with a similar sensitivity to that shown by insulin release and de novo lipid synthesis. Therefore, it is suggested that alpha 2 adrenoceptor-mediated reduction of the potentiation by palmitate of the secretory response to glucose depends on the inhibition of fatty acid metabolism and the resulting impairment of de novo lipid synthesis and 45Ca2+ turnover. PMID- 2514600 TI - Evidence for a specific role of GnRH pulse frequency in the control of the human menstrual cycle. AB - An adequate frequency of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) pulses appears to be important for physiological gonadotropin secretion. However, limited information exists on the exact role of this parameter in the regulation of the human menstrual cycle. Thus we studied gonadotropin and gonadal steroid secretion in 32 women with primary hypogonadotropic amenorrhea who received pulsatile GnRH (60 to 120 micrograms/day) at 60- or 120-min intervals for a total of 64 ovulation induction cycles. Ovulation was achieved in 94% of 60-min and in 70% of 120-min cycles P less than 0.05). In the follicular phase of ovulatory cycles, estradiol (E2) levels did not differ among the four groups; however, mean luteinizing hormone (LH) levels were lower (P less than 0.005), and the midcycle LH surge was severely blunted in cycles of subjects receiving 120 micrograms/day (5 micrograms/bolus) GnRH every 120 min compared with subjects receiving the same dose of GnRH per day or per bolus every 60 min. Luteal progesterone (only in 60 micrograms/day GnRH cycles) and E2 levels were lower in 120-min than in 60-min cycles (P less than 0.05). The use of the higher daily GnRH dose (120 micrograms/day) reduced or abolished the frequency-associated hormone level differences. We conclude that a low frequency of pulsatile GnRH in women 1) decreases mean LH levels and blunts the midcycle gonadotropin surge, 2) does not increase follicle-stimulating hormone concentrations, and 3) is associated with a reduced rate of ovulation. PMID- 2514601 TI - Carbachol-induced cytosolic free Ca2+ increases in T84 colonic cells seen by microfluorimetry. AB - Changes in cytosolic free Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) in response to the secretagogue carbachol have been characterized in the human colon cancer cell line T84, a model Cl- secretory cell. In this study, [Ca2+]i was determined with the fluorescence indicator fura-2 at the single-cell level with a fluorescent microscope-imaging system. Basal [Ca2+]i in T84 cells in Ringer-HCO3 solution was 76 +/- 4 nM and was decreased by exposure to Ca2+ free solution or 25 microM verapamil. The cholinergic agonist carbachol caused a concentration-dependent rise in [Ca2+]i with a Km of 4 microM and a peak increase in [Ca2+]i of approximately 50 nM. The onset of the [Ca2+]i increase was within 3 s, occurred uniformly among cells, and peaked at 10-15 s. The increase in [Ca2+]i was heterogenous in the length of time the [Ca2+]i remained elevated above basal, and cell responses could be divided into at least two groups on that basis. Blocking the contributions of intracellular Ca2+ with dantrolene inhibited the increase in [Ca2+]i as early as could be determined, whereas blocking the extracellular contribution with ethylene glycol-bis(beta-aminoethyl ether)-N,N,N',N' tetraacetic acid (EGTA), verapamil, or nifedipine inhibited a slightly later increase in [Ca2+]i. In conclusion, the initial detectable increase in [Ca2+]i caused by carbachol is due to the release of Ca2+ from internal stores, whereas the contribution of extracellular Ca2+ occurs later and at least partially involves a nifedipine- and verapamil-sensitive process. PMID- 2514602 TI - Ca2+ requirement for metabolic effects of secretagogues in the amphibian gastric mucosa. AB - The role of extracellular Ca2+ in metabolic effects induced by theophylline and histamine was investigated in the isolated toad gastric mucosa. Primary and secondary effects on metabolism were differentiated by using K(+)-free solutions, which blocked the secretory responses but not the metabolic ones. The stimulation of respiration induced by theophylline and histamine was dose dependent and was significantly decreased by Ca2(+)-free solutions. In the presence of 1.8 mM Ca2+, the rate of glycogen breakdown was increased by theophylline in a dose-dependent manner and the dose-response curve was somewhat similar to that obtained with oxygen uptake. This effect was inhibited by incubation in Ca2(+)-free solutions. Ca2+ stimulated the rate of glycogen utilization in a concentration-dependent manner. The rates of oxidation of exogenous glucose and pyruvate were significantly inhibited by Ca2(+)-free solutions in theophylline- and histamine stimulated mucosa, whereas the rates of oxidation of butyrate and acetate were not significantly affected. The Ca2+ ionophore A23187 significantly stimulated the rate of oxygen uptake and this response was not blocked by omeprazole and Sch 28080, two specific inhibitors of gastric H(+)-K(+)-ATPase. The results indicate that Ca2+ is required for optimal stimulation of carbohydrate catabolism in the toad gastric mucosa. PMID- 2514603 TI - Regulation of lung surfactant secretion by intracellular pH. AB - We investigated secretion of lung surfactant phosphatidylcholine (PC) using isolated perfused rat lung preparation after labeling the lung lipids in vitro with [methyl-3H]choline. The perfusion medium was Krebs-Ringer bicarbonate buffer (pH 7.4) containing 10 mM glucose and 3% fatty acid-poor bovine serum albumin. After ventilation of lungs with air containing 5% CO2 (control) for 1 h, 0.91% +/ 0.04 (mean +/- SE, n = 6) of total lung lipid radioactivity (greater than 95% in PC) was recovered in the cell-free lavage fluid. The secretion of PC was increased with terbutaline (50 microM), 8-bromoadenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (8-BrcAMP, 100 microM), phorbol L2-myristate 13-acetate (30 ng/ml), and ATP (1 mM), in each case by approximately 150%. Secretion of PC was also increased by 160% if the lungs were ventilated with air containing 0% CO2. The low CO2-mediated PC secretion was time and concentration dependent. The dose response curve for 0-10% CO2 was S-shaped. The low CO2-induced increase in PC secretion could be largely reversed with diffusible weak acids (25 mM, acetate or butyrate) in the perfusion medium. An increase (70%) in secretion was also induced with 10 mM NH4Cl, suggesting a role for intracellular alkalosis. These observations suggest that intracellular alkalosis stimulates lung surfactant secretion. Alkalosis-stimulated secretion of PC was additive with that with terbutaline (5 X 10(-7) to 5 X 10(-4) M) or 10(-4) M 8-BrcAMP, suggesting that alkalosis effect was not mediated through the beta-adrenergic pathway of surfactant secretion.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514604 TI - Release of cyclooxygenase products from primary cultures of tracheal epithelia of dog and human. AB - Release of cyclooxygenase products from primary cultures of dog or human tracheal epithelium was measured by radioimmunoassay. In both species, bradykinin, platelet-activating factor (PAF), and A23187 (a calcium ionophore) caused increases in the rate of release of prostaglandin (PG) E2 and smaller increases in PGF2 alpha, 6-keto-PGF1 alpha, and thromboxane B2 output. Isoproterenol, vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), methacholine, and leukotrienes C4 and D4 had no effect on release of these cyclooxygenase products. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry showed that the ratio of PGE2 to PGD2 released from dog cells by A23187 was 30:1. Short-circuit current across dog cells was stimulated by bradykinin, A23187, PAF, VIP, methacholine, and isoproterenol. Only the responses to bradykinin and A23187 were reduced by pretreatment with indomethacin. PMID- 2514606 TI - [Circulatory adaptation of the hemostatic system to the gestational process]. PMID- 2514605 TI - Oxidant-mediated activation of phospholipase A2 in pulmonary endothelium. AB - Exposure of bovine pulmonary arterial endothelial cells to the oxidant tert-butyl hydroperoxide (t-bu-OOH) caused a dose-dependent increase in the release of [14C]arachidonic acid and synthesis of the cyclooxygenase products, thromboxane, prostaglandin E2, prostaglandin D2, and prostacyclin. There was no detectable production of peptide leukotrienes before or after administration of t-bu-OOH. Pretreatment with the oxygen radical scavenger 4-hydroxy-2,2,6,6 tetramethylpiperidino radical (HTP) or the antioxidants vitamin E and dithiothreitol prevented the increased arachidonic acid (AA) release caused by t bu-OOH. t-bu-OOH increased the activity of phospholipase A2 by increasing its apparent maximum velocity without affecting its Michaelis constant. The increased AA release caused by t-bu-OOH did not appear to require new RNA or protein synthesis, because pretreatment of the cells with actinomycin D or cycloheximide did not reduce the increased release of AA or activation of phospholipase A2 caused by t-bu-OOH. Dexamethasone pretreatment of the cells prevented the increase in phospholipase A2 activity, and AA release produced by t-bu-OOH. t-bu OOH increased the activity of phospholipase A2 and release of AA in both the presence and absence of extracellular calcium (Ca2+). Pretreatment with a nominal Ca2+-free buffer, the Ca2+ chelator ethylene glycolbis(beta-aminoethyl ether) N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid, nifedipine, or verapamil did not reduce t-bu-OOH stimulated AA release. In contrast, treatment with the intracellular Ca2+ chelator 8-N,N-diethyamino octyl 3,4,5-trimethoxybenzoate (TMB-8) prevented t-bu OOH-stimulated AA release in both the presence and absence of extracellular Ca2+. Treatment with calmodulin antagonists also prevented the increased release of AA caused by t-bu-OOH. PMID- 2514607 TI - [Indices of the acid-base status and blood gases and the serotonin content during the treatment of uterine inertia with hyperbaric oxygenation and prostenon]. PMID- 2514608 TI - [The parenteral feeding of newborn infants]. PMID- 2514609 TI - Vitamin K-dependent carboxylase: minimized escape of CO2 from solution may prolong linearity of the reaction rate. AB - Escape of 14CO2 from the reaction mixture into the gas phase may seriously affect the accuracy of in vitro measurement of vitamin K-dependent carboxylase activity (and probably that of other carboxylases as well). In this paper we describe the effect of (a) the volume of the test tubes in which the reaction is performed, (b) the addition of an excess of NaH12CO3 in parallel with standard amounts of NaH14CO3, and (c) the incubation temperature. In this way optimal conditions are defined and used for the carboxylation of various peptide and protein substrates. It is shown that both a prosequence and an internal recognition site contribute to the effective recognition of a substrate by carboxylase. The maximal efficiency of carboxylation was 1-2% with substrates lacking both signals and 20 50% if only one was present. This indicates the need for developing peptide substrates containing both recognition signals for vitamin K-dependent carboxylase. PMID- 2514610 TI - Concentration of dilute solutions of macromolecules by electrophoresis. AB - An electrophoresis apparatus which is used for concentrating micrograms of macromolecules from solutions as large as 250 ml is described. The recoveries were greater than 91% with three different macromolecules tested (28 to 360 kDa). Solutions with volumes in the range of 35 ml were concentrated 70-fold in less than 90 min to a final volume of 0.5 ml. Larger volumes in the range of 250 ml were concentrated 227-fold in 16 h to a final volume of 1.1 ml. Sterile concentrates can be obtained if the apparatus is constructed under sterile conditions. PMID- 2514611 TI - A method for the synchronization of cultured cells with aphidicolin: application to the large-scale synchronization of L1210 cells and the study of the cell cycle regulation of thymidylate synthase and dihydrofolate reductase. AB - The DNA polymerase alpha inhibitor, aphidicolin, was employed to synchronize large-scale suspension cultures (10(9) cells) of murine L1210 leukemia cells. On the basis of the doubling time and cell cycle distribution for logarithmically growing L1210 cells, a synchronization protocol was devised involving a temporal sequence of two 12-h exposures to aphidicolin, separated by an 6-h interval in drug-free medium. After the second aphidicolin treatment, resuspension of cells into drug-free medium resulted in the rapid onset of DNA synthesis as assessed by [3H]thymidine incorporation and DNA fluorescence with flow cytometry. By 6 h after aphidicolin removal, the cells progressed into the G2-M phase and cell division was initiated. DNA synthesis was minimal during this time and remained low through 9 h when the majority of the cells were in G1 phase. Only low levels of cytotoxicity were observed when L1210 cells were treated with aphidicolin in this fashion. The levels of both thymidylate synthase and dihydrofolate reductase were relatively constant during cell cycle transit, following release from the aphidicolin blockade. Similarly, the levels of the corresponding mRNA transcripts for these enzymes, measured by Northern blot hybridizations, remained essentially unchanged through most of the cell cycle, increasing approximately twofold only as the cells entered G1 phase. Whereas intracellular dihydrofolate reductase catalytic activity was relatively unchanged throughout the cell cycle, as reflected in the metabolism of [3H]folic acid to reduced folate forms, a marked increase in in situ thymidylate synthase activity occurred during S phase that was tightly linked to the rate of DNA synthesis.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514612 TI - Acetylcholine receptor fiber-optic evanescent fluorosensor. AB - An acetylcholine receptor-based optical biosensor was developed, which uses the evanescent wave to excite fluorescein isothiocyanate-labeled alpha-bungarotoxin (FITC-alpha-BGT), that is bound to a receptor protein immobilized on the surface of a quartz fiber. After excitation of the fluorophore just outside the waveguide boundary, the resultant fluorescence was trapped by and propagated back up the fiber. Pure nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) protein, isolated from Torpedo electric organ, was immobilized noncovalently on quartz optic fibers and its density was quantitated by 125I-BGT binding. In the absence of nAChR, FITC alpha-BGT alone bound to the quartz fiber. This nonspecific (i.e., nonreceptor) binding of FITC-alpha-BGT was totally eliminated by the addition of 0.1 mg/ml bovine serum albumin to the phosphate-buffered saline medium. This solution did not interfere with FITC-alpha-BGT binding to the nAChR that was immobilized on the fiber. Thus, only specific binding was observed under these conditions, resulting in a very high signal-to-noise ratio of greater than 99. Specific FITC alpha-BGT binding to the nAChR protein on the optic fibers was inhibited by agonists (e.g., acetylcholine, nicotine, and carbamylcholine) and antagonists (e.g., pancuronium and d-tubocurarine) of the nAChR and was insensitive to high salt concentrations (e.g., 154 mM NaCl). The binding was most sensitive to the highly nAChR-specific alpha-BGT and alpha-cobratoxin. The optic-fiber sensor in its present form does not distinguish between receptor agonists or antagonist and cannot be regenerated for repeated use.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514613 TI - Determination of inorganic phosphate by flow injection method with immobilized enzymes and chemiluminescence detection. AB - A flow injection method with chemiluminescence detection has been developed for the enzymatic determination of inorganic phosphate. Purine nucleoside phosphorylase, xanthine oxidase, and urate oxidase were immobilized on controlled pore glass beads. Hydrogen peroxide released by the enzymatic reactions of phosphate and inosine in carrier buffer was detected by the luminol microperoxidase system in a flow cell. The calibration graph was linear over the range of 5 to 250 pmol, and reproducibility was 1.75% at 10 pmol. The detection limit was 500 fmol of phosphate in 50 microliters of sample injected. The phosphate content in deoxyribonucleic acid was measured by this method. PMID- 2514614 TI - Neoglycoenzymes: a versatile tool for lectin detection in solid-phase assays and glycohistochemistry. AB - Carbodiimide-mediated coupling of p-aminophenyl glycosides to a naturally nonglycosylated enzyme yields a neoglycoenzyme. This compound combines inherent enzymatic activity with synthetically conferred ligand properties to lectins. Appropriate choice of the ligand allows custom-made synthesis to reliably detect various types of lectins. To exemplify practical applications of this class of compounds, glycosylated bacterial beta-galactosidase has been employed to quantitate plant lectins, immobilized on plastic surfaces as well as on nitrocellulose. Competitive inhibition by specific sugar ascertained the dependence of binding on protein--carbohydrate interactions. In view of lectins as tools, a sandwich lectin-binding assay for high mannose-type glycoprotein detection has been modified to principally facilitate wide application to other lectin-reactive sugar chains by introducing the neoglycoenzyme. In addition to lectin determination in solid-phase assays, neoglycoenzymes allow one to glycohistochemically localize endogenous lectins in tissue prints and tissue sections with a minimum number of steps. This nonradioactive, rapid, sensitive, and convenient assay concept, based on conjugation of a ligand to an enzyme with maintenance of its receptor-binding activity, may find extended application beyond lectinology in receptor analysis. PMID- 2514615 TI - Brucella abortus-specific immunoglobulin isotypes in serum and vaginal mucus from heifers vaccinated with Brucella abortus salt-extractable proteins and challenge exposed with virulent Brucella organisms. AB - Serum and vaginal Brucella-specific immunoglobulin isotypes (IgG1, IgG2, IgM, and IgA), obtained from 62 crossbred beef heifers vaccinated with Brucella abortus salt-extractable proteins and subsequently challenge exposed with B abortus S2308, were studied. Brucella-specific IgG antibodies and Brucella-specific immunoglobulin isotypes were quantitated by a fluorometric immunoassay. Serum and vaginal immunoglobulin responses were evaluated as a method of distinguishing infected from noninfected heifers. Rivanol precipitation, complement-fixation, buffered-antigen brucellosis tests and an ELISA were performed on sera. For immunoglobulin isotypes, vaccinated heifers had mean antibody responses higher than baseline mean antibody responses for at least 31 weeks after vaccination. After challenge exposure, significant differences (P greater than 0.05) were not detected between mean antibody responses of vaccinated and nonvaccinated heifers. Vaginal Brucella-specific antibody responses did not correlate with protection from disease. Vaginal Brucella-specific IgM was detected only at the time of abortion. Vaginal IgA appeared specific for identification of virulent B abortus infection. All serotests appeared adequate in distinguishing baseline titers from titers of heifers that had aborted and were considered bacteriologic culture positive. Results of serotests neither consistently distinguished vaccinates from challenge-exposed cattle nor distinguished heifers that were challenge exposed, had aborted, and were considered bacteriologic culture-positive adequately from heifers that were challenge-exposed, had not aborted, and were considered bacteriologic culture-negative. Brucella-specific IgA appeared to be the most effective in distinguishing vaccinated heifers from challenge- exposed heifers and heifers that were challenge exposed and had aborted, from heifers that were challenge exposed and had not aborted. Brucella-specific serum IgA was detected up to 13 weeks after abortion. PMID- 2514616 TI - Effects of dexamethasone on shedding of Listeria monocytogenes in dairy cattle. AB - Ten lactating Holstein cows that had been given multiple injections of Listeria monocytogenes (serotype 4B, Scott A strain) via the intramammary route were allotted to 2 groups: group 1 (n = 5) was treated with the synthetic glucocorticoid, dexamethasone (0.04 mg/kg of body weight), for 3 consecutive days, and group 2 (n = 5) served as controls. Two days after the initial dexamethasone injection, the number of L monocytogenes in the milk had increased nearly 15-fold (1.16 log10) over pretreatment values. On day 3, Listeria numbers in the milk had increased by 1.83 log10, compared with pretreatment values. By day 4, Listeria numbers in the milk were approximately 100-fold (2.03 log10) greater than pretreatment numbers. Numbers remained high through day 7 and, by day 11, approached pretreatment numbers. Dexamethasone administration was accompanied by high total WBC and milk somatic cell counts and decreased eosinophil and lymphocyte numbers, and decreased milk production. The increase in shedding of L monocytogenes in the milk may reflect impairment of cell-mediated immune mechanisms and phagocytic cell functions that are critical for sustaining listerial immunity. PMID- 2514617 TI - Detection of Brucella abortus in mammalian tissue, using biotinylated, whole genomic DNA as a molecular probe. AB - A method has been developed for the detection of Brucella abortus in complex tissue homogenates. The technique uses tissue homogenization in the presence of sucrose and Triton X-100 and subsequent filtration through a 5-microns pore size filter to remove mammalian nuclei and cellular debris. The DNA from the bacteria is then extracted, dot blotted onto nitrocellulose, and hybridized with a biotinylated probe of B abortus strain 19 DNA. In the present study, BALB/C mice were inoculated intraperitoneally with either 10(9) or 10(11) B abortus strain 2308S organisms. After 6 days, the mice were euthanatized by cervical dislocation and the livers were removed, weighed, and the appearance of each was noted. The tissues were homogenized, and a viable cell count was performed to determine the number of bacteria in each organ. The DNA was extracted, blotted onto nitrocellulose, and hybridized with the Brucella probe. The biotin label was detected by use of a commercially available streptavidin/alkaline phosphatase system. In control experiments, the technique detected 10(5) organisms in a mixture of bacteria and 1 g of rat liver. The technique also detected 10(7) B abortus organisms/g of tissue from experimentally inoculated mice. The probe was specific for Brucella and had no affinity for contaminating bovine or bacterial DNA. PMID- 2514618 TI - Assessment of canine intestinal permeability, using 51Cr-labeled ethylenediaminetetraacetate. AB - The 51Cr-labeled EDTA was validated as a suitable permeability probe in dogs for measurement of passive, unmediated diffusion across intestinal mucosa via intercellular pathways. The 51Cr-labeled EDTA was stable in aqueous solution and did not bind to biologic tissue and fluids. After incubation of 51Cr-labeled EDTA in isolated jejunal loops, analytic subcellular fractionation of jejunal mucosa on reorientating sucrose-density gradients was performed, and no association of 51Cr-labeled EDTA with particulate intracellular organelles was detected. Intravenously administered 51Cr-labeled EDTA was rapidly and completely excreted in urine. Intestinal permeability to 51Cr-labeled EDTA after oral administration was assessed in healthy dogs. The percentage of the administered dose of 51Cr labeled EDTA excreted in the urine in 24 hours ranged from 2.3 to 17.6% (median, 13%). PMID- 2514619 TI - [Pyoderma gangrenosum and IgA gammopathy. Association with atrophic gastritis]. AB - Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare condition remarkable for its association with particular diseases, notably haemopathies and gastrointestinal diseases. As regards haemopathies, the associations most frequently encountered are with myeloid malignancies and monoclonal dysglobulinaemia. The association of PG with mainly inflammatory digestive tract diseases is also classical. The lack of publications concerning gastric atrophy and the dual haematological and gastric pathology which characterizes our case have prompted us to report it. A 60-year old woman without significant history was admitted for PG on both knees, following vesiculo-bullous lesions. Laboratory examinations detected a normochromic anaemia tending to be macrocytic, a marked inflammatory syndrome and a monoclonal lambda light chain IgA peak at protein immunoelectrophoresis. Bone marrow biopsy, skeletal radiography and a search for Bence-Jones proteinuria were normal or negative. Colonoscopy showed no abnormality, but fibroscopy of the upper digestive tract revealed a severe gastric atrophy en plaques. Serum vitamin B12 level was moderately low, but there was no other sign of pernicious anaemia. After one month treatment with systemic corticosteroids, healing was obtained under replacement vitamin therapy. PG recurred a few months later; serum vitamin B12 level was normal, and the lesions healed after systemic corticosteroid treatment. In non-myelomatous dysglobulinaemia IgA is frequently found and there is no light chain predominance. PG often precedes dysglobulinaemia. Evolution towards a true myeloma seems to be exceptional. In a recent publication, 17 cases of association between PG and myeloma were mentioned, the IgA type being most common. Protein electrophoresis is indispensable in patients with PG. Five cases of congenital hypogammaglobulinaemia have been recorded, including three with IgA deficiency.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514620 TI - [Insulin receptor and action mechanism of the hormone]. AB - The first step in insulin action consists in binding of the hormone to specific cell surface receptors. This receptor displays two functional domains: an extracellular alpha-subunit containing the majority or the totality of the hormone binding site, and an transmembrane beta-subunit possessing insulin stimulated tyrosine kinase activity. A general consensus has been reached in favor of the idea that this receptor enzymic function is essential for generation of the metabolic and growth promoting effects of insulin. Concerning the mechanism of transmembrane signalling we like to think that interaction of insulin with the receptor alpha-subunit triggers a conformational change, which is propagated to the beta-subunit and activates it. The active receptor kinase leads then to phosphorylation of cellular protein substrates, which are likely to belong to two broad categories, those generating metabolic effects of insulin, and those resulting in growth-promoting effects. The phosphorylated and active substrates generate then the final effects of insulin. PMID- 2514621 TI - [A prospective study of liver test anomalies during continuous enteral nutrition]. AB - In 119 gastrointestinal patients, serum transaminases (ASAT) and alkalines phosphatases (AP) were prospectively measured on the first and the twenty first days of a continuous enteral nutrition (CEN) regimen. The exclusion criteria were: recent surgical procedure, transfusion or total parenteral nutrition (TPN), or a cancer during the previous five years. Of the 119 patients, 71 patients were included in the study. The patients received: (a) an exclusive elemental CEN (n = 25, all with Crohn's disease) or non elemental CEN (n = 9), providing 40 kCal/kg of ideal body weight (IBW)/day; (b) a non exclusive non elemental CEN providing a minimum of 30 kCal/kg IBW/day. Of the 56 patients having normal hepatic function tests (HFT) on the first day, only 2 developed mild abnormalities (incidence of 3.6%). Of the 15 remaining patients having abnormal HFT on the first day, HFT improved or returned to normal in 8 cases. During CEN: the appearance of abnormal HFT seems rare, pre-existing abnormalities can improve and there is no associated morbidity. These results suggest that there is no hepatic side effects of CEN, in contrast to TPN, and that CEN must be preferred over TPN whenever the choice is possible. PMID- 2514622 TI - BRO beta-lactamases of Branhamella catarrhalis and Moraxella subgenus Moraxella, including evidence for chromosomal beta-lactamase transfer by conjugation in B. catarrhalis, M. nonliquefaciens, and M. lacunata. AB - Two closely related beta-lactamases, BRO-1 and BRO-2 (formerly called Ravasio and 1908), are found in Moraxella (Branhamella) catarrhalis. We screened strains of B. catarrhalis recovered in the United States since 1952 and identified the first beta-lactamase-positive isolate in August 1976. The prevalence of the enzymes among 394 clinical isolates from one Texas hospital has averaged 75% since testing began in 1983. Screening of isolates of Moraxella subgenus Moraxella revealed the BRO enzymes in two other human respiratory tract species, M. lacunata and M. nonliquefaciens, beginning in 1978. A different beta-lactamase with a pI of 6.4 predominated in other species of subgenus Moraxella. BRO-2 had a different isoelectric focusing pattern and was produced in lesser amounts than BRO-1, but the two enzymes were indistinguishable by substrate or inhibitor profile. BRO enzymes from B. catarrhalis, M. nonliquefaciens, and M. lacunata could be transferred by conjugation and, for B. catarrhalis, also by transformation to B. catarrhalis. Plasmid bands were demonstrated in 90% of M. nonliquefaciens and in one previously reported strain of B. catarrhalis, but no change in plasmid profiles was seen in beta-lactamase-positive recombinants, supporting previous studies that suggested the beta-lactamase genes are chromosomal. PMID- 2514623 TI - Factors influencing the accumulation of ciprofloxacin in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. AB - Ciprofloxacin accumulation in Pseudomonas aeruginosa was measured by a bioassay. Drug accumulation in strain PAO2 was compared with that of three spontaneous ciprofloxacin-resistant mutants selected with 0.5 micrograms of ciprofloxacin per ml. PAO4701 cfxA2 contains a mutation in the gyrA gene, PAO4742 cfxB5 may represent a permeability mutant based on pleiotropic drug resistance, and PAO4700 cfxA1 cfxB1 contains both types of mutations. In all strains, drug accumulation was similar, reaching steady state during the first minute of exposure. Drug accumulation was unsaturable over a range of 5 to 80 micrograms/ml, suggesting that ciprofloxacin accumulates by diffusion in P. aeruginosa. Although all four strains accumulated two- to sevenfold more ciprofloxacin in the presence of the inhibitor carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazone, the cfxB mutants accumulated two- to fourfold less drug than either PAO2 or the cfxA2 mutant. Polyacrylamide gel analysis revealed a protein common to cfxB mutants only, while all strains had similar lipopolysaccharide profiles. The results suggest that ciprofloxacin accumulation in P. aeruginosa is a complex phenomenon that may be affected by both an energy-dependent drug efflux process and outer envelope composition. PMID- 2514624 TI - Phosphanilic acid inhibits dihydropteroate synthase. AB - Intact cells of Pseudomonas aeruginosa were more susceptible to phosphanilic acid (PA) than cells of Escherichia coli. In cell extracts, the dihydropteroate synthases of P. aeruginosa and E. coli were about equally susceptible to inhibition by PA. These results suggest that cells of P. aeruginosa are more permeable to PA than cells of E. coli. Although a weak inhibitor, PA acted on dihydropteroate synthase in the same manner as the sulfonamides with which PA is structurally related. Inhibition of E. coli by PA in a basal salts-glucose medium was prevented by p-aminobenzoic acid (pABA). However, pABA did not protect P. aeruginosa from PA under these conditions, possibly because pABA itself exhibited an inhibitory effect. PA also appeared to have a second mode of action. The mechanism was not elucidated. PMID- 2514625 TI - In vitro activity of dactimicin, a novel pseudodisaccharide aminoglycoside, compared with activities of other aminoglycosides. AB - The in vitro activity of dactimicin, a new pseudodisaccharide aminoglycoside which possesses a formimidoyl group, was compared with those of gentamicin, tobramycin, and amikacin against 500 isolates. Dactimicin inhibited 90% of isolates from the family Enterobacteriaceae at a concentration of less than or equal to 4 micrograms/ml. It was more active than amikacin against Klebsiella pneumoniae, Serratia marcescens, Citrobacter diversus, Enterobacter agglomerans, Yersinia species, and Salmonella species, with an MIC for 90% of the strains (MIC90) of less than or equal to 4 micrograms/ml. The MIC90s for the Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates were greater than 128 micrograms/ml. Dactimicin did not inhibit most methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolates and coagulase negative staphylococci but had an MIC50 (MIC for 50% of strains tested) of 2 micrograms/ml against methicillin-susceptible S. aureus isolates and coagulase negative staphylococci. Dactimicin in combination with piperacillin acted synergistically against 75% of Escherichia coli, K. pneumoniae, S. marcescens, and S. aureus isolates. It exhibited an excellent postantibiotic suppressive effect on E. coli. Dactimicin was active against organisms possessing aminoglycoside-modifying enzymes including AAC(2')-b, AAC(3)-III, -IV, and -V, and AAC(6')-Ia, -Ib, Ic, -II, and -IV but was not active against isolates which contained AAC(3)-I and the bifunctional APH(2")-AAC(6')-I. Its lack of activity against P. aeruginosa appeared to be permeability related since in the presence of EDTA P. aeruginosa was susceptible, as were mutant isolates resistant because of permeability barriers. PMID- 2514626 TI - A cell culture study on melanocytes from patients with neurofibromatosis-1. PMID- 2514627 TI - Neurobehavioral dysfunction in firemen exposed to polycholorinated biphenyls (PCBs): possible improvement after detoxification. AB - Fourteen firemen exposed to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and their byproducts generated in a transformer fire and explosion had neurophysiological and neuropsychological tests 6 mo after the fire. They were re-studied 6 wk later after undergoing 2-3 wk of an experimental detoxification program consisting of medically supervised diet, exercise, and sauna. A case-control comparison with firemen matched from the same department, but who did not participate in controlling the transformer fire, had shown significant impairment of memory for stories, visual images, and digits backwards. Cognitive function was impaired for block design, identifying embedded figures, and design association and recognition using Culture Fair. Making of trails and choice reaction time, which measured cognitive function and perceptual motor speed, were also impaired. These signs of protracted neurobehavioral impairment were attributed to PCBs and heat produced byproducts. No relationship, however, was found between the firemen's serum or fat levels of PCBs as Arochlor 1248 and their type or degree of neurobehavioral impairment. Retesting following the detoxification program showed significantly improved scores on: three memory tests, block design, trails B, and embedded figures. Thus, there was significant reversibility of impairment after the detoxification interval. However self-appraisal scores for depression, anger, and fatigue--which were initially elevated--and for vigor--which was reduced--did not change across this interval. PMID- 2514629 TI - [Current status of the problem of interferon (theoretical and practical aspects)]. AB - The conceptions of the system of interferon, its immunobiological effect and the mechanisms of its therapeutic action in infectious and oncological affections are discussed from the modern viewpoints. The most important results of the clinical trials are presented. PMID- 2514628 TI - Half-life of polychlorinated biphenyls in occupationally exposed workers. AB - In 1977 and 1985, serum polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) concentrations were determined for 58 workers in a Bloomington, Indiana, factory that used polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in capacitor manufacture until 1977. Less chlorinated PCBs were quantitated as Aroclor 1242, and more highly chlorinated PCBs were quantitated as Aroclor 1254. The median half-life was 2.6 y for Aroclor 1242 and 4.8 y for Aroclor 1254. However, the half-life varied inversely with the initial serum concentration. This pattern may be a result of continued low-level exposure, variation in the time of exposure, or enzyme induction by PCBs. PMID- 2514631 TI - [Intraoperative bacteriological examination of patients operated on under extracorporeal circulation]. AB - Results of bacteriological examination of 41 patients during surgical operations on the heart under conditions of artificial blood circulation are presented. The frequency of contamination of intraoperative++ samples and species composition of the isolated microflora were analyzed. It was shown that representatives of nonfermenting gram-negative++ bacteria isolated during the operations and characterized by high antibiotic resistance could be the agents causing purulent septic complications in the patients during the postoperative period. It is concluded that intraoperative++ bacteriological examination of cardiosurgical patients with successive investigation of several samples from the pericardium before and after perfusion, as well as specimens of perfusion blood at various stages and resected heart valves is advisable. PMID- 2514630 TI - [Kinetics of the antibacterial effect of ampicillin and sulbactam combinations in dynamic and static conditions]. AB - Kinetics of antimicrobial effect (AME) of ampicillin/sulbactam combinations (ratios of 4:1 to 1:2) on ampicillin resistant bacterial strains producing beta lactamases of types II, III, IV and V according to Richmond classification was studied with using the computerized system MS-2 (turbidimetric recording) and an in vitro dynamic model (microcalorimetric recording). The concentrations of the drugs in system MS-2 (static conditions) corresponded to the maximum ones observed in serum of humans after bolus intravenous administration of ampicillin in a dose of 0.5 g and sulbactam in doses of 0.125 to 0.5 g. The pharmacokinetic profiles of the drugs observed in the human serum after their oral and intravenous administration and in the tissue-chamber fluid after intravenous administration of ampicillin (0.5 g) and sulbactam (0.125 g) were simulated in the dynamic model. The combination efficacy was estimated with using the parameter of AME duration (TE) reflecting shifts in the curves of the microbial regrowth in the presence of the drugs against the curve of the control growth (in the absence of the drugs) and the parameter of the AME intensity (IE) evaluated by the area between the curves. It was noted that increasing of the ampicillin/sulbactam ratio from 1:4 to 1:1 was accompanied by an increase in the AME. Further increasing of the sulbactam content in the combination did not result in higher AME. For combined ampicillin/sulbactam dosage forms the ratios of 1:1 to 2:1 should be recommended.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514632 TI - [Tissue plasminogen activator (alteplase) in acute massive pulmonary embolism. A pilot study]. AB - Twenty six patients with acute (less than 5 days) pulmonary embolism (PE) confirmed by bilateral pulmonary angiography with a Miller index greater than 15 were given tissue plasminogen activator (Alteplase) (rt-PA) intravenously (n = 20) or directly into the pulmonary artery (n = 6). The dosage was 100 mg/7 hours (bolus 10 mg + 40 mg/2 hours + 50 mg/5 hours). Heparin (5000 IV as a bolus and 1000 IV/hour) was associated in all cases. The Miller index decreased from 24 +/- 1 (n = 26) before treatment to 12 +/- 1 (n = 25) (p less than 0.001) after 100 mg of Alteplase, and from 25 +/- 0.4 (n = 14) to 22 +/- 0.5 (n = 14) (p less than 0.001) after 50 mg. The mean pulmonary arterial pressures fell from 30 +/- 2 mmHg to 21 +/- 2 mmHg after 50 mg (n = 26) (p less than 0.001) and to 14 +/- 1 (n = 25) (p less than 0.001) after 100 mg of Alteplase. A decrease in mean pulmonary artery pressures (-22%, p less than 0.001) and total pulmonary resistances (-29%, p less than 0.001) was obtained after one hour of thrombolysis in 12 monitored patients. There were no fatalities. Severe haemorrhage occurred in 6 cases. Therefore, Alteplase induced a rapid dissolution of recent intrapulmonary thrombi without inacceptable haemorrhagic complications. Its action could be particularly beneficial in patients with right ventricular failure due to life threatening pulmonary embolism. PMID- 2514633 TI - [Relation of an increase of von Willebrand factor in the blood, acute myocardial infarction, unstable angina and coronary thrombosis]. AB - Forty six patients admitted for precordial chest pain were included in this study. The clinical, electrocardiographic, enzymatic and angiographic features allowed retrospective identification of 6 subgroups (nos 1 to 6): all transmural myocardial infarction (Q-MI) (Group 1), Q-MI without intracoronary thrombus (Group 2), Q-MI with intracoronary thrombus (Group 3), acute non-Q wave infarction (non Q-MI) (Group 4), unstable angina (Group 5) and atypical chest pain (Group 6). Several blood clotting factors were studied; von Willebrand factor (VWF), fibrinogen, tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) and its inhibitor (PAI-1) and factor VII. There was no significant difference in the fibrinogen, t PA, PAI-1 or factor VII levels between the 6 groups. On the other hand, the VWF was increased in the all transmural myocardial infarction (Q-MI) groups (n. 1). In Group 3 with visible intracoronary thrombus the VWF was high or very high in all patients, attaining three times the normal values. The values were lower in Group 5 (unstable angina) patients in whom no thrombus was observed on coronary angiography. The differences between Group 1 and Groups 4, 5 and 6 were statistically significant (p less than 0.05). The VWF was higher in the Q-MI group with intracoronary thrombus than in the group without thrombus, but the difference was not statistically different. In conclusion, the VWF may be considered to be a marker for thrombus and/or endothelial activation but a larger study population would be required to identify more accurately the subgroups with thrombosis or risk of thrombosis. PMID- 2514634 TI - [Value of continuous monitoring of the electrocardiogram in asymptomatic subjects]. AB - The authors analysed the prevalence of atrioventricular conduction defects and sinus node dysfunction by Holter monitoring in three population groups with similar clinical characteristics: 50 controls (Group I), 17 physically fit subjects with an atrioventricular conduction defect on the resting ECG which was usually asymptomatic (Group II), and 48 professional pilots who were also physically fit but who had no conduction defects on resting ECG (Group III). The 24 hour recordings showed: --a similar incidence of sinus dysrhythmias and atrioventricular conduction defects in the three groups although the frequency of low degree block was a little higher in sportsmen; --a preponderance of the association of first degree block and nocturnal Luciani-Wenckebach periods, sometimes with episodes of Mobitz II block; --the absence of progression to high degree atrioventricular block. Holter monitoring would therefore seem to be a good method of detecting and following up abnormalities of sinus node function and atrioventricular conduction defects in asymptomatic patients. In addition, it gives a qualitative and quantitative assessment of the recorded changes and provides a means of monitoring their evolution. PMID- 2514635 TI - [A new quantitative method for quantifying left heart jets by Doppler color imaging]. AB - Quantification of valvular lesions by Color Doppler is based on jet measurements. The aim of this new method is to reduce some of the errors in these measurements: uncertainty in delimiting the colored areas of the jets; spontaneous beat-to-beat variations of the jets entailing interpretative difficulties. The first step was to determine the correlations between the colored areas and previously established single-gated Doppler criteria, retaining spectral criteria to define the borders of the jets, so overcoming some of the limitations of color Doppler. The association of these methods resulted in better discrimination between grades and a better correlation in 45 angiographically controlled mitral and aortic regurgitations than with color Doppler alone. In stenotic lesions, spectral criteria from single-gated associated exploration enabled localisation of the level for planimetry of the section of the jet at its origin visualised by color Doppler. Satisfactory correlations were obtained with the Gorlin surface area in a group of 43 patients with mitral and aortic stenosis. A coefficient of variation of 13 to 14 per cent was found with planimetry of the regurgitant jet in the upstream cardiac chamber. Uni-dimensional measurement decreased this variation to 6 to 11 per cent in the same patients. The largest decrease in variability (6 to 8 per cent) was observed in stenotic and regurgitant lesions with planimetry of the section of jet at its origin performed in held mid expiration and so this would appear to be the best method. The guide lines and technological improvement associated with the physiopathological information provided by color Doppler should refine the quantification of valvular heart lesions. PMID- 2514636 TI - [Value of the isoprenaline test in arrhythmogenic heart diseases]. AB - The sympathetic nervous system seems to play a major role in the genesis of ventricular arrhythmias. The authors studied this adrenergic factor prospectively by exercise stress testing and intravenous isoprenaline in 107 patients referred for evaluation of arrhythmias or symptoms thought to be due to arrhythmias: 30 patients had morphologically normal hearts (15 ventricular extrasystoles, 15 bursts of ventricular tachycardia); 55 patients had dilated cardiomyopathy and 22 had probable or proven arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia. Exercise testing was carried out with 30 watt increments every 3 minutes. Ventricular tachycardia was induced in 6 patients with apparently normal hearts (17%), 13 patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (31%) and 7 patients with arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia (40%). Isoprenaline was infused for 3 minutes at a dose of 8-12 g/min: ventricular tachycardia was induced in 7 patients with apparently normal hearts (24%) and 23 patients with dilated cardiomyopathy. In some patients presenting with syncope, an arrhythmogenic response to isoprenaline was the only abnormality detected by the study protocol. An arrhythmia was induced by isoprenaline in 17 of the 18 patients with confirmed right ventricular dysplasia (94%), 12 of whom had sustained mono or polymorphic ventricular tachycardia. Two of these patients did not have significant right ventricular wall motion abnormalities. Four asymptomatic subjects related to patients with right ventricular dysplasia underwent the isoprenaline test; bursts of ventricular tachycardia were recorded in 3 of them. Polymorphic ventricular tachycardia was specifically associated with cardiac disease. The maximum heart rate attained by exercise testing (148 +/- 19/min) was higher than that attained with isoprenaline (148 +/- 22/min).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514637 TI - [Long-term clinical results of coronary surgery. Apropos of 400 patients followed for 5 to 11 years]. AB - Between 1976 and 1982 four hundred consecutive patients underwent coronary artery bypass surgery and were operated by the same surgical team: 345 men (88.5%) and 46 women (11.5%). The average age was 56 years (7.5% were over 75 years of age); 86% of patients were infunctional classes III and IV; 46% had triple vessel disease and 9.25% had severe stenosis of the left main stem. Left ventricular ejection fractions were decreased in 26% and very poor in 4.5% of patients. The average number of bypass grafts was 1.72 per patient and the operative mortality was 3.5%. The 10 year survival rate was 81% and 75% of these patients still thought that their condition had been improved by surgery although only 30% were completely asymptomatic and had had no further coronary event. A comparison with a control population of the same age showed better survival in the surgical group in patients surviving operation. Contrary to traditional thinking, the surgical patients suffered relatively few deaths of cardiac causes but as many, if not more, of cancer. The operated patients died of approximately the same diseases as the control population of the same age but in lower proportions for each cause of death (17 cardiovascular deaths in the control population compared with 13 in the operated group; 18 versus 10 deaths of cancer, and 18 versus 8 deaths of other causes in the control and operated patients, respectively).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514638 TI - [Delayed autotransfusion associated with the cell-saver method in cardiovascular surgery. Values, methods, initial results]. AB - The aim of deferred autotransfusion associated with the Cell-Saver system, i.e. the recovery of intraoperative blood loss, is to avoid using external homologous blood products. Transfusion-transmitted diseases and immunisation problems can be avoided: normovolumic haemodilution is an advantage in patients with coronary artery disease and economies can be made in the use of homologous blood. This technique has been in use in Professor Cabrol's department since 1987 with the help of the Blood Transfusion Centre of the Pitie Hospital. The contraindications are unstable angina, severe cardiac failure and anaemia of less than 11 g Hb at the first consultation. A review of the first 65 patients included in the protocol showed that deferred autotransfusion was well tolerated in all cases and that only 10 per cent of patients required transfusion with homologous blood. Autotransfusion associated with the Cell-Saver system is therefore a good method which should be extended to the largest possible number of patients referred for elective cardiac surgery. PMID- 2514639 TI - [Systematic peroperative use of an autotransfusion system in heart surgery. A prospective and comparative study in 283 patients]. AB - A series of 283 patients undergoing cardiac bypass surgery was studied to determine whether intraoperative autotransfusion, haemodilution, and a change in transfusion techniques of the same surgical team could reduce homologous blood requirements. The Cell-Save Haemonetics* system was used systematically in 167 consecutive patients (Group I). This group of autotransfused patients was analysed prospectively and compared with a control group (Group II) of 116 patients operated one year before and analysed retrospectively. During the whole hospitalisation, homologous blood products were required in 40.7% of patients in Group I compared with 73.3% of patients in Group II (p less than 0.0001). The average requirements of packed cells per patient were 2.7 +/- 1.3 in Group I compared with 4.1 +/- 2.5 in Group II (p less than 0.0001). The haematocrit on discharge from the department was 29.9 +/- 4% in Group I compared with 32 +/- 4.5% in Group II (p less than 0.0001). The average volume of blood recovered by the system and then autotransfused was 620.8 +/- 242.6 ml. There was no significant difference in postoperative bleeding in the first 24 hours between the two groups. This study confirms that peroperative autotransfusion during cardiac surgery and the acceptance of a clinically well tolerated normovolumic anaemia are associated with a significant reduction in homologous blood consumption. PMID- 2514640 TI - [von Willebrand's disease and coronary atherosclerosis. Apropos of 3 cases]. AB - The von Willebrand factor (VWF) is a link in the platelet-vessel wall interaction which plays an essential role in the response of the vessel wall to an atherosclerosis-including aggression. However, can von Willebrand's disease really prevent the development of atherosclerosis? The authors report 3 cases of young men aged 36, 40 and 51 years with atherogenic risk factors and von Willebrand's disease (two mild and one severe form). The three patients developed both atherosclerotic lesions and thrombosis. This would suggest that VWF deficiency does not protect humans from atherosclerosis. PMID- 2514641 TI - [Sickle cell anemia and the heart]. PMID- 2514642 TI - [Is myocardial biopsy necessary in the diagnosis of myocardial diseases? For]. PMID- 2514643 TI - [Is myocardial biopsy necessary in the diagnosis of myocardial diseases? Against]. PMID- 2514644 TI - [Difficulties in the echocardiographic diagnosis of false aneurysm of the left ventricle. Apropos of 2 cases]. AB - The echocardiographic diagnostic criteria of left ventricular pseudo-aneurysm are well established: the demonstration of a narrow-necked communication between the left ventricular cavity and the aneurysm and endocardial discontinuity at the site of myocardial rupture. The authors report two cases in which these criteria were fulfilled, leading to an echocardiographic diagnosis of pseudo-aneurysm which was erroneous as the operative findings were those of true left ventricular aneurysms. PMID- 2514646 TI - [Leiomyosarcoma of the pulmonary artery. Apropos of a case]. AB - The authors report a case of sarcoma of the pulmonary artery in a 41 year old woman hospitalised for syncope on effort associated with effort dyspnoea. Chest Xray and echocardiography were "normal", leading to referral for pulmonary scintigraphy and angiography which showed multiple intravascular filling defects in the pulmonary arterial tree. A tumour implanted on a pulmonary valve was discovered at exploratory thoractomy. It was resected and the pulmonary valve replaced with a Carpentier-Edwards bioprosthesis. The histological findings were those of a leiomyosarcoma. The patient was reoperated 19 months later for a local recurrence but the tumour was too extensive for a complete ablation. The patient developed right heart failure and died the day after surgery. Sarcoma of the pulmonary artery is a rare tumour in adults and carries a very poor prognosis. The clinical course is initially insiduous and polymorphic but early diagnosis and complete excision are the only means of improving survival. PMID- 2514645 TI - [Pulmonary embolism and disseminated intravascular coagulation after being bitten by a Bothrops lanceolatus snake. Apropos of a case]. AB - The authors report the case of a Bothrops lanceolatus snake bite complicated by severe pulmonary embolism a few hours after admission. This thromboembolic complication developed despite heparin therapy and was followed by disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). Vascular thrombosis and pulmonary embolism are rare after Bothrops lanceolatus snake bite as patients are usually hypocoagulable due to DIC. In this case, the thromboembolism was probably caused by the procoagulant effect of the thrombin-like enzymes of the snake venom which may have been injected directly into the vein of a young woman taking a contraceptive pill. A specific antivenin which has recently become available fort treatment may decrease the complications of Bothrops lanceolatus snake bite. PMID- 2514647 TI - [Urokinase recanalization of extensive thrombosis of the superior vena cava secondary to an implantable perfusion device]. AB - A superior vena cava syndrome developed suddenly in a 36 year old man who had been undergoing chemotherapy via an implanted venous access catheter for 18 months. Venography showed superior vena cava thrombosis extending bilaterally to the subclavian veins. Direct local thrombolysis with low-dose Urokinase resulted in partial recanalisation with an excellent clinical result despite the persistence of an endovenous sequestrum situated at the catheter tip, a sequela of previous thrombosis. This case underlines the importance of direct local thrombolysis in patients with a Port-a-Cath system complicated by a thrombosis. PMID- 2514648 TI - [Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma of the azygos vein]. AB - The authors report a case of epithelioid hemangioendothelioma of the azygos vein diagnosed during the investigation of a superior vena cava syndrome. Venography and thoracic CT and nuclear magnetic resonance scans showed an endovenous tumour with spinal and lymph node invasion. Cavographic-controlled biopsies allowed histological identification of the tumour. Palliative therapy consisted in tumour ablation and superior vena cava bypass. Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma is a rare vascular tumour characterised by the presence of epithelioid endothelial cells. It is slowly progressive and its potential malignancy justifies surgical excision whenever possible. PMID- 2514649 TI - Prostacyclin, hypertension and atherosclerosis. Proceedings of a symposium of the 4th European Congress of Hypertension. Milan, 23 June 1989. PMID- 2514650 TI - Vasoactive mediators derived from the endothelium. AB - Two of the many mediators synthesized by vascular endothelial cells (EC), are involved in maintaining the surface of the normal, healthy endothelium in a non thrombogenic state. The first is prostacyclin, a product of arachidonic acid metabolism, discovered in 1976. This labile prostanoid, with a half life of approximately 3 minutes, relaxes vascular smooth muscle and inhibits the aggregation of blood platelets. Prostacyclin and its analogues are currently being tested in the clinic for cardiovascular diseases such as primary pulmonary hypertension. A number of drugs including defibrotide, nafazatrom, ronicol and cicletanine may exert their therapeutic effects by releasing prostacyclin from the EC. The second mediator discussed is endothelium-derived relaxing factor (EDRF), discovered in 1980, which also relaxes smooth muscle and inhibits the aggregation and adhesion of platelets. Substances which stimulate release of EDRF include acetylcholine, bradykinin and ADP. EDRF is even more labile than prostacyclin with a half life counted in seconds. It has recently been identified as nitric oxide formed from L-arginine by an unknown mechanism. Prostacyclin and EDRF are released together following stimulation of endothelial receptors and synergize to inhibit platelet aggregation. It is suggested that these mediators form the endothelial defence mechanism against blood-borne cells and chemicals and that breakdown of this barrier results in diseases such as hypertension and atherosclerosis. The peptide, endothelin is the third mediator under discussion. Characterised and synthesised in 1988, it is the most potent vasoconstrictor so far discovered. Three isomers of endothelin have been identified. Paradoxically, endothelin strongly releases both prostacyclin and EDRF thus modulating its own vasoconstrictor actions. PMID- 2514651 TI - [Comparative study of 2 dosages of a new antihypertensive agent, cicletanine, in elderly subjects]. AB - Cicletanine chlorhydrate (C), a furopyridine derivative, is a new antihypertensive drug that acts mainly by enhancing endogenous prostacyclin release. It has been shown to induce a significant, progressive reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure in patients over 60 years of age at a daily dose of 150 mg in a placebo-controlled efficacy trial. As concurrent studies in adult hypertensive patients demonstrated an antihypertensive effect at even lower doses, we further compared the antihypertensive efficacy and tolerance of 50 mg vs 100 mg daily dose of C in elderly hypertensive patients in order to determine the lowest active posology. A prospective, double-blind randomized trial included 72 patients (56 female, 16 male) aged 65 years or more (mean age +/- 1 SD: 80.3 +/- 5.9 years, range 65-90) with moderate, essential hypertension, and normal-for age renal function whose diastolic BP was greater than 95 mmHg and/or systolic BP was greater than 160 mmHg after 15 days of a single-blind placebo period. They were randomly allocated to either 50 mg (group I, 36 patients) or 100 mg (group II, 36 patients) C given in a single morning dose for 3 months with monthly surveillance. Of them, 60 achieved satisfactory BP control with C as monotherapy and completed full follow-up.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514652 TI - [Effects of cicletanine on plasma lipid metabolism. Mid-term open trial in hypertensive patients with normal blood lipids and hyperlipidemia]. AB - Cicletanine, an antihypertensive drug heralding a new pharmacological family, was tested in a short-term open trial on 39 hypertensive patients with normal or increased lipidemia according to the W.H.O. criteria. This trial confirmed that the drug has excellent antihypertensive activity (normalization of blood pressure in 71.8% of the cases), is very well tolerated and has no unfavourable effect on lipid metabolism. PMID- 2514653 TI - [Cicletanine tolerance in hypertensive patients with metabolic disorders]. AB - In this double-blind trial, the clinical and biochemical side-effects of cicletanine 150-200 mg/day were compared with those of indapamide 2.5 mg/day in a population of hypertensive with such metabolic disorders as diabetes mellitus, obesity, hyperlipidaemia or hyperuricaemia. Sixteen patients received cicletanine and 15 indapamide; 2 patients in the indapamide group were excluded, one for undesirable effect, the other for unexpected effect. The two treatments did not produce any significant change in natremia, glycaemia, uricemia, creatininemia or blood lipid level. Kalemia remained stable under cicletanine but was significantly reduced under indapamide, requiring supplementation with potassium salts in 5 patients. Both cicletanine and indapamide proved to be effective as antihypertensive drugs, although blood pressure levels at inclusion were different in each of the two groups. PMID- 2514654 TI - [Changes in the glucose tolerance parameters in non-diabetic hypertensive patients treated with cicletanine]. AB - The effects of cicletanine hydrochloride on glucose tolerance parameters were studied in a two-phase trial in which patients received a placebo for 2 weeks, followed by cicletanine 50 mg/day for 3 months. Ten patients with mild to moderate hypertension, who were neither obese nor diabetic and had no disorder of glucose tolerance entered the study. None of the patients was withdrawn. Glucose tolerance was evaluated by two oral glucose tolerance tests performed at 90 days' interval, each with half hourly blood glucose and insulin assays. The clinical effectiveness of the drug was assessed by monthly blood pressure measurements. No significant change in glycaemia and insulinaemia was observed. There was a significant decrease of supine SBP from 170.7 +/- 9.1 mmHg to 150.3 +/- 6.7 mmHg (p less than 0.0001) and of supine DBP from 101.3 +/- 4.1 to 80.3 +/- 7.7 mmHg (p less than 0.0001). At the end of the study, 9 of the 10 patients had normal blood pressure values. No undesirable clinical or biochemical effect was noted. thus, cicletanine, an antihypertensive drug derived from furopyridine, proved to be devoid of adverse effects on glycoregulation and clinically effective on hypertension. PMID- 2514655 TI - [Evaluation of rhythm tolerance of cicletanine using continuous electrocardiographic recording]. AB - The effectiveness of cicletanine against hypertension, as well as its clinical, biochemical and electrocardiographic safety, were studied in 52 patients (24 women, 28 men, mean age 60.3 +/- 8.6 years) presenting with permanent, moderate to severe arterial hypertension without severe cardiovascular complications. After three months of treatment, blood pressure had fallen from 182.2/116.8 mmHg, with a mean daily dose of 181 mg of cicletanine at the end of the study. Mean falls of 34 mmHg for the systolic arterial pressure and 25 mmHg for the diastolic arterial pressure normalized BP in 55.8% of the patients treated and significantly reduced the functional symptoms of hypertension. Continuous 24-hour ECG recording (Holter system), performed on days 0, 30 and 90, demonstrated a considerable reduction (about 70%) of ventricular and supraventricular extrasystoles during treatment. No undesirable side-effect, even minor, was reported. There was little change in biochemical parameters: the moderate decrease of natraemia and kalaemia observed was due to the natriuretic effect of cicletanine in doses of 200 mg/day. Plasma creatinine and uric levels remained stable, and an improvement in glucose and lipid metabolism was noted. PMID- 2514656 TI - Role of kinins and prostacyclin in blood pressure regulation. AB - The main vasodepressor hormone systems are the kallikrein-kinin systems and the vascular prostacyclin. Kallikreins release kinins which are the biological active compounds of the kallikrein-kinin systems. Kinins are one of the most potent vasodilators reducing systemic blood pressure by diminution of vascular resistance. The reduction in blood pressure is strongly dose related. Prostacyclin develops similar effects on blood pressure as kinins. There is a close relationship between kinins and prostacyclin since kinins stimulate prostacyclin synthesis very effectively. In arterial hypertension there is a lack in kallikrein-kinin and prostacyclin activity. This could also be shown under experimental conditions in spontaneously hypertensive and in Dahl salt-sensitive rats. In clinical studies these experimental results were confirmed in primary hypertension. The blood pressure response to exogenous vasodepressor hormones is increased in hypertensives suffering from reduced endogenous vasodilator activity. In the knowledge of reduced vasodilator activities in primary hypertension the stimulation of kinins by prostacyclin will be of major interest in the management of primary hypertension. In the last years some drugs have been investigated with regard to their kinin prostacyclin stimulating effect, but only angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, linolenic acid and cicletanin seemed to induce therapeutic prostacyclin stimulation. However, it remains unclear whether these drugs develop their blood pressure lowering effect by stimulation of the discussed vasodilators or by some other effect. PMID- 2514657 TI - [Effect of cicletanine on a sudden death model in dogs]. AB - Cicletanine is a new antihypertensive agent. In view of its various pharmacological properties and of the different factors involved in sudden death, cicletanine was tested on an ischaemia-reperfusion model in anaesthesized dogs. In these experiments myocardial reperfusion induced ventricular fibrillation in 87 p. 100 of the cases, where as only 20% of those animals who received cicletanine 20 mg/kg intravenously 15 minutes before the 30 minute coronary occlusion developed ventricular disorders (p less than 0.001 vs controls). Moreover, cicletanine showed good antiarrhythmic activity during occlusion (total number of arrhythmias: 73.0 +/- 23.15 in treated animals, as against 293.4 +/- 40.03 in controls; p less than 0.05). Thus, antihypertensive treatment with cicletanine may prevent some of the cardiovascular risks associated with arterial hypertension. PMID- 2514658 TI - [Effect of cicletanine on arrhythmia and intracellular sodium accumulation in the isolated rat heart during ischemia and reperfusion]. AB - The antiarrhythmic effects of cicletanine (CIC), a new antihypertensive drug, were studied on isolated hearts from SHR and WKY rats subjected to global normothermic ischaemia. The effects of CIC on variations in intracellular sodium concentration induced by ischaemia-reperfusion were measured. After a 14-day treatment with CIC in doses of 30 and 100 mg/kg/day, the results were as follows: in WKY rats the incidence of ventricular fibrillation (VF) was reduced from 91% in controls to 41% and 50% (p less than 0.05) and the incidence of ventricular tachycardia (VT) was reduced from 100% to 41% and 58% (p less than 0.05). In SHR rats the percentages of VF were 100% in controls and 17% (p less than 0.001) and 33% (p less than 0.01) respectively in treated animals. Similarly, the incidence of VT was reduced from 100% to 17% (p less than 0.001) and 25% (p less than 0.001) respectively. The effects of CIC were more pronounced on SHR rats than on WKY rats. CIC reduced the intracellular sodium accumulation induced by ischaemia and reperfusion. The antiarrhythmic activity of CIC seems to be correlated with its inhibitory activity on intracellular sodium accumulation. PMID- 2514659 TI - [Effectiveness of cicletanine on lesions in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Curative study--dose-effect relationship]. AB - Genetically hypertensive rats receiving a high sodium content diet develop, within weeks of their birth, major alterations of tissues and blood vessels. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of cicletanine, a synthetic antihypertensive drug, on the progress of genetic hypertension. Iffa Credo SHR-SP male rats aged 11 weeks were divided into 4 groups. One group was used as control and 3 groups were treated with oral cicletanine in doses of 10, 30 and 90 mg/kg/day respectively. The control group showed a high mortality rate due to a significant decrease of weight gain and a highly significant increase of blood pressure, these changes being associated with lesions of tissues and vessels in the brain, heart and kidneys. A curative treatment with cicletanine improved these parameters and was accompanied by good tissue preservation. The curative effect of cicletanine seems to be due to an increase in endogenous prostaglandin synthesis. PMID- 2514660 TI - [Comparison of the effects of cicletanine and captopril on kidney and heart lesions in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR-SP)]. AB - All studies carried out on stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR-SP) have clearly demonstrated that cicletanine protects tissues and vessels. This effect has also been observed with captopril. However, the effectiveness of captopril seemed to be dependent on its blood pressure lowering effect, and this was not found with cicletanine in previous experimental studies on SHR-SP. In view of the difference in effectiveness between captopril and cicletanine as regards blood pressure, it was considered important to compare the two compounds in a similar blood pressure complex. In this study, the effects of cicletanine at two dosage levels (3.33 and 10 mg/kg/day) on the tissue and vascular lesions of SHR-SP were compared with those of captopril in doses of 1 mg/kg/day. Iffa Credo SHR-SP rats aged 7 weeks were divided into four groups of 12 animals each: 2 groups received cicletanine 3.33 and 10 mg/kg/day respectively, 1 group received captopril 1 mg/kg/day and 1 group served as control. Blood pressure was recorded once a week. After 44 days of treatment, all animals were killed and autopsied. A significant antihypertensive effect was observed with both captopril (p less than 0.001) and cicletanine 10 mg/kg (p less than 0.05). In doses of 3.33 mg/kg cicletanine induced only a very slight fall in blood pressure, not significantly different from controls. On the other hand, histological and ultrastructural examinations showed better preservation of tissues and, chiefly, vessels with cicletanine at the two dosage levels than with captopril 1 mg/kg. PMID- 2514661 TI - [Protective effect of cicletanine in hypertensive retinopathy. Evaluation of retinal function in the isolated retina]. AB - In order to demonstrate functional impairments related to hypertensive retinopathy, we experimented on the isolated retina of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR-SP strain A3N Iffa Credo). We also used this experimental model to assess the protective effect of treatment with cicletanine, a new synthetic furopyridine compound. Treatment consisted of daily oral administration of either 50 or 100 mg/kg of cicletanine for 5 weeks. Retinal function was evaluated by recording the electroretinogram (ERG) obtained in response to light stimulation (300 lux, 1 ms) of the isolated retina maintained in survival by perfusion. The results indicate: (i) that ERG amplitude remains systematically lower in hypertensive rats than in normotensive rats and that in consequence retina survival is shortened; (ii) that in cicletanine-treated hypertensive rats ERG amplitude is significantly higher than in untreated hypertensive rats, the drug augmenting the duration of retina survival. Although cicletanine significantly improved the ERG amplitude obtained in hypertensive rats, this amplitude was still lower than in normotensive rats. These results are consistent with those of previous histological studies performed on the same of hypertensive rats, which demonstrated that impairments of retinal capillaries, photoreceptors and ganglion cells may have deleterious functional consequences for the visual process. Cicletanine is able to reduce these histological impairments, and the present study demonstrate that the drug can also significantly improve the ERG amplitude. PMID- 2514662 TI - [Effects of cicletanine on kidney lesions associated with age. Light and electron microscopy studies]. AB - Aging laboratory animals constantly present with chronic progressive nephrosis. The purpose of this study was to investigate the protective effect of a chronic treatment with cicletanine in aging rats, notably as regards kidneys. Sixteen Wistar rats aged 26 months were divided into two groups: one group served as control, while the other received oral cicletanine 30 mg/kg/day. Blood pressure, weight and death rate were recorded. No rise of arterial pressure was observed in either group. The rats were killed on day 151, i.e. aged 31 months, after 5 months of treatment. All were autopsied and their kidneys, heart, lungs, liver, brain and eyes were removed for examination. Light microscopy of the renal tissue showed the lesions described in the chronic progressive nephrosis of the aging rat. These lesions were diffuse and pronounced in the control group and minimal in treated rats. The difference was confirmed by electron microscopy. The basal membrane of renal tubules was slightly thickened in the treated rats and two or three times thicker in control rats. Mitochondrial alterations were observed in the proximal tubules of controls but not in those of rats treated with cicletanine. Thus, after a 5-months treatment with cicletanine aging Wistar rats well known for their renal pathology were protected against kidney lesions in contrast with untreated rats. PMID- 2514663 TI - Eicosanoids and their role in atherosclerosis. AB - Our laboratory has been actively investigating the role of endogenously synthesized eicosanoids in the control of vascular cholesterol metabolism. Using an in vivo rabbit model, cholesteryl esters (CE) accumulated under the regenerating edge of the endothelium due to reductions in CE hydrolytic activity and the accumulation of LDL. In addition, the aortic neointima immediately formed after de- endothelialization synthesized little PGI2, but regained its capacity to synthesize PGI2 over time of endothelial cell regeneration. Importantly, hypercholesterolemia inhibited the recovery of PGI2-synthetic capacity by the vessel wall using this model. Using cultured arterial smooth muscle cells, PGI2 and its derivatives (but not PGE2 and PGE1) stimulated lysosomal (acid) and cytoplasmic (neutral) CE hydrolase activities and reduced cellular cholesterol content. CE-synthetic activity was unaffected by PGI2 or its stable metabolites, but was inhibited by PGE2. Eicosanoids generated from platelet-neutrophil-smooth muscle cell interactions (including platelet-generated arachidonic acid, 12-HETE, 12,20-diHETE) may be important in the role of eicosanoids in mediating vascular cholesterol metabolism. We also observed that CE-enriched arterial smooth muscle cells have reduced capacity to synthesize PGI2 and PGE2. Collectively, our data suggest that eicosanoids derived from blood-borne cells and the vascular endothelium may regulate cholesterol metabolism in smooth muscle cells, and that eicosanoid regulation of vascular CE content may be impaired during hypercholesterolemia owing to an inability of arterial tissue to generate PGI2 and related eicosanoids. PMID- 2514664 TI - Prostaglandin I2 and the kidney. AB - PGI2, or prostacyclin, and PGE2 are major derivatives of arachidonic acid. Arachidonic acid is converted by the cyclooxygenase enzyme to intermediate prostaglandin endoperoxides which are then enzymatically converted to PGI2 and PGE2 as well as to thromboxane A2 and PGF2 alpha. Aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs inhibit the cyclooxygenase enzyme thereby reducing the amount of PGE2 and PGI2 produced. In the kidney, major stimuli of prostaglandin synthesis include vasoconstrictor hormones such as angiotensin II, vasopressin, endothelin and norepinephrine. Renal PGI2 and PGE2 synthesis is also increased after renal ischemia, immune injury to the kidney, and with renal parenchymal disease. Renal prostaglandin production also increases with severe arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease, congestive heart failure, and severe hepatic disease. The increment of renal prostaglandin synthesis is important since PGI2 and PGE2 act as modulators of renal ischemia and vasoconstriction. The modulatory action leads to a negative feedback loop through which PGE2 and PGI2 and renal blood vessels in glomeruli reduce the vasoconstrictor action of the agonist, such as angiotensin II or norepinephrine. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can have nephrotoxic effects if they are used in clinical situations in which renal prostaglandin synthesis has increased compensatorily. In other words, the administration of indomethacin or other prostaglandin inhibitory drugs will reduce renal blood flow and glomerular filtration rate in patients with congestive heart failure, significant hepatic disease, or renal ischemia and vasoconstriction. PGI2 and PGE2 may have additional beneficial effects within the kidney in addition to being vasodilatory.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514665 TI - [Effect of cicletanine on prostacyclin generation in vivo]. AB - The administration of arachidonic acid to live rabbits if followed by the generation of prostacyclin and/or thromboxane. Cicletanine increased the production of prostacyclin in a first group of rabbits and amplified the prostacyclin/thromboxane ratio in a second group of the thromboxane type. The most probable mechanism for this action is activation of prostacyclin synthase by cicletanine. This was confirmed in the in vivo model by a study of the platelet vascular wall interaction: tranylcyprominE, a prostacyclin synthase inhibitor, increased the interaction. Under these experimental conditions, cicletanine inhibited the effect of tranylcypromine and completely restored the enzymatic activity of prostacyclin synthase. PMID- 2514666 TI - [Effects of treatment with cicletanine on kidney PGE2 and PGI1 in spontaneously hypertensive rats]. AB - Cicletanine is a new antihypertensive agent known for being able to stimulate prostaglandin synthesis in vivo and in endothelial cell cultures. The drug was administered to spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHP-SP) whose hypertension was enhanced by a high sodium content diet. Cicletanine prolonged the animals' survival and reduced the severity of histological renal lesions. PGE2, PGI2 and thromboxane A2 assays performed in renal tissues showed a highly significant increase of PGE2 (a prostaglandin involved in the regulation of renin synthesis) in SHR-SP rats treated with oral cicletanine in daily doses of 30 mg/kg. A less significant increase of PGI2 was found in renal tissues, whereas only slight variations in thromboxane concentrations were observed. The favourable therapeutic effect obtained with cicletanine in the treatment of hypertension may be due, at least in part, to the stimulation of PGE2 and PGI2 production in renal tissue. PMID- 2514667 TI - [Ionic perturbations produced by a non-laminar flow in vascular smooth muscle cells in culture. Protection by cicletanine via a cyclo-oxygenase metabolite]. AB - The non-laminar (rather turbulent) flow, induced by cell washings was able to reversibly increase internal Na+ contents in cultured aortic smooth muscle (A10 cells). Similar changes (although to a lesser extent) were observed in cardiocytes but not in fibroblasts, erythrocytes, thymocytes or macrophages, suggesting that they are specific for excitable cells. The increased vascular sodium content had the following properties: it was inhibited by nitrendipine; it was accompanied by an increase in free cytosolic Ca2 contents; it was unable to stimulate the sodium pump and (iv) it reflected the qualitative and quantitative composition of the incubation media. These observations suggested to us that the increased vascular sodium content results from the opening of potential-dependent calcium channels with secondary internalisation of high amounts of extracellular ions. The ionic perturbations were blocked by low concentrations of cicletanine (IC50 of about 10(-9) M on intracellular sodium). Moreover, the protective effects of cicletanine were inhibited by indomethacin, suggesting that they are mediated by a cyclo-oxygenase metabolite, perhaps prostacyclin. Sodium nitroprusside, a compound able to stimulate calcium entry in the sarcoplasmic reticulum via cyclic GMP, was also able to protect vascular cells (although it acted at higher concentrations than cicletanine). Conversely, captopril and diuretic drugs such as hydrochlorothiazide, furosemide, spironolactone and acetazolamide were unable to protect vascular cells against the deleterious effects of cell washings. PMID- 2514668 TI - Vascular actions of cicletanine. AB - Vascular wall hypertrophy and enhanced vascular reactivity are characteristic of the hypertensive state. Pharmacologic reversal or prevention of these changes might be of therapeutic benefit. We examined the mechanism by which cicletanine, an antihypertensive vasodilator, induces relaxation of isolated mesenteric resistance arteries and assessed its effects on growth of cultured mesenteric artery myocytes. Initial experiments determined the effect of cicletanine on aortic rings and superior mesenteric arteries isolated from spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) and normotensive Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats. Cicletanine induced dose-dependent relaxation of pre-contracted segments of both artery types. Aortas of SHR were more sensitive to cicletanine than those of the WKY, while no difference in sensitivity of mesenteric arteries was observed between the two strains. Within-strain comparisons showed that aortas of SHR were more sensitive to cicletanine than mesenteric arteries while no differences were detected in vessels of the WKY. To assess the mechanism of action, the effect of cicletanine on intracellular Ca2+ was determined in mesenteric resistance arteries loaded with fura-2. In 4 of 4 preparations tested, 100 microM cicletanine induced a rapid fall in the level of free ionized Ca2+. When the endothelial lining of superior mesenteric arteries was removed or vessels were pre-treated with either 1 microM propranolol, 0.1 mM ouabain or 5 microM indomethacin, no effect on cicletanine-induced relaxation (10-300 microM) was detected.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514669 TI - Studies on the mechanism of action of the antihypertensive agent cicletanine. AB - DOCA-salt rats have been previously shown to respond readily to the antihypertensive agent cicletanine (C). To study the mechanism of action of this drug, DOCA-salt rats were subchronically (14 d) treated with a 30 mg/kg (p.o.) dose of C and, once killed, their thoracic aortas challenged with a concentration (0.1 microM) of the vasocontractile agent noradrenaline (NA). Arteries from rats treated with C responded less to NA than the arteries from rats given placebo for the same time period. In another set of experiments, prior treatment with the inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis indomethacin (2 x 2.5 mg/kg, s.c.) blunted the acute antihypertensive effect of C (30 mg/kg, p.o.) in this experimental model. These data suggest that C may work through a long-term induced blockade of the sympathetic tone that could be somehow related to a promotion of the formation of the vasodilator prostaglandin prostacyclin. PMID- 2514670 TI - [Cicletanine and the sympathetic nervous system. A study of awake sino-aortic denervated hypertensive dogs]. AB - The antihypertensive action of non diuretic doses of cicletanine, a new antihypertensive compound, has been studied in neurogenic hypertensive dogs. Four months after sinoaortic denervation, Fourteen dogs were randomly allocated into two parallel groups of oral treatment: cicletanine (10 mg/kg/12 h (n = 7)) or placebo (n = 7). Urinary parameters (diuresis, urinary sodium, potassium, urea and creatinine clearance), cardiovascular parameters (blood pressure (BP) and heart rate) and sympathetic tone (noradrenaline and adrenaline plasma levels) were measured before and after one month of treatment in conscious animals. Chronic treatment with cicletanine lowered BP in neurogenic hypertensive dogs (204 +/- 10/116 +/- 5 mmHg before and 159 +/- 12/86 +/- 8 mmHg after treatment) without any diuretic effect. Cicletanine failed to modify plasma noradrenaline (457 +/- 100 pg/ml versus 419 +/- 135 pg/ml) or adrenaline (213 +/- 36 pg/ml versus 166 +/- 35 pg/ml). These data confirm that cicletanine exerts antihypertensive actions which are independent of its natriuretic properties. Moreover, they suggest that the decrease in arterial blood pressure does not involve sympathetic pathways. PMID- 2514671 TI - Inhibitory effect of cicletanine on vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation. AB - We investigated the effect of cicletanine on vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation. In cultured vascular smooth muscle cells from rat mesenteric artery, cicletanine (10(-5) to 10(-4) M) increased prostacyclin synthesis (measured as 6-keto-PGF1 alpha by radioimmunoassay) dose-dependently. When added to cells in which mitogenesis was activated by 10% fetal bovine serum, cicletanine (3.3 x 10(-5) to 10(-4) M) inhibited [3H] thymidine incorporation up to 31% of the control level. Inhibitory effect of cicletanine on mitogenesis was also confirmed at 48 h by cell counts (control: 18965 +/- 629, cicletanine 10(-4) M: 14840 +/- 430, n = 6). The effect of cicletanine on platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-stimulated [3H] thymidine incorporation was not abolished by prostaglandin synthesis inhibition with aspirin, but the prostacyclin analogue OP 41483 (125-1000 ng/ml) inhibited it dose-dependently. Calcium entry blockers, nifedipine (3.3 x 10(-6) M) and diltiazem (10(-4) M), inhibited both [3H] thymidine incorporation and cell proliferation, while furosemide did not affect it. Cicletanine also inhibited PDGF-stimulated [3H] thymidine incorporation in cultured glomerular mesangial cells. We conclude that cicletanine stimulates prostacyclin synthesis and inhibits cell proliferation in cultured vascular smooth muscle cells, which may possibly be related to the intracellular calcium mobilization. Such a property might be contributory to the antihypertensive activity of cicletanine. PMID- 2514672 TI - [Effect of cicletanine on the mechanical properties of the arterial wall]. AB - The management of arterial hypertension should include not only lowering of blood pressure but also treatment of the arterial wall. We tested the effect on arterial wall mechanical properties of cicletanine administered orally in doses of 3 mg/kg/day for two weeks to normotensive and genetically hypertensive rats. These properties were evaluated by three different methods consisting of measuring the characteristic compliance of the ascending aorta (Zc) the systemic arterial compliance (SAC) and the compliance of the isolated carotid artery in situ (CC). Following treatment, there were no significant changes in blood pressure, cardiac output and heart rate in the two groups of rats. In contrast, Zc, SAC and CC were modified, resulting in increased distensibility of the arterial wall. The mechanisms of arterial wall improvement remain to be determined. One of them could be a treatment-induced release of PGI2 by the arterial wall. PMID- 2514673 TI - Evaluation of the effect of cicletanine on genetic atherosclerosis in the rabbit. AB - This study was designed to evaluate the hypolipidaemic and anti-atherosclerotic potential of cicletanine in a genetic hypercholesterolaemic rabbit model. In a pilot study the effect of 8 weeks oral administration of 2 treatment levels of cicletanine (10, 30 mg.kg-1.day-1) was compared with vehicle alone. In the main study, 8 weeks oral administration of 2 treatment levels of cicletanine (5, 30 mg.kg-1.day-1) was compared with parallel treatment with probucol (15 mg.kg-1.day 1) and with nifedipine (10 mg.kg-1.day-1). At the start of each study and at scheduled points throughout, blood samples were collected for routine biochemical and lipid/lipoprotein analyses. At the end of each test period all animals were examined at post mortem. Aortae were dissected and examined for the presence ans degree of atheroma. Hearts were examined for the presence of lesions. Sections of aortae were stained for lipid, examined histologically and scored for extent of atheroma using an atherosclerotic index. In the pilot study cicletanine had no effect on blood lipid levels. Gross pathology indicated a reduction in the extent of aortic atheroma in cicletanine-treated animals. Histopathological examination of thoracic and abdominal regions of the aortae confirmed these gross findings. The atherosclerotic index was significantly reduced (p less than 0.06) in all drug treated animals. In the main study similar data were achieved. None of the test drug affected plasma lipid/lipoprotein levels. Gross pathology indicated a reduction in the extent of aortic atheroma in all cicletanine-treated animals and also in the nifedipine-treated group. This was confirmed by histopathological examination of thoracic and abdominal regions of the aortae.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514674 TI - [Reduction of kidney prostaglandin synthesis in patients with essential hypertension. Stimulating effect of cicletanine]. AB - The purpose of this study was to evaluate the level of renal synthesis of vasodilator and natriuretic prostaglandins I2 and E2 in patients with essential hypertension and to test the effect of cicletanine, a new antihypertensive drug, on the renal synthesis of these prostanoids in hypertensive patients. The first part of the study was carried out in 12 healthy normotensive subjects and in 25 patients of both sexes with essential hypertension. The effect of cicletanine administered in dose of 150 mg was assessed in 10 healthy volunteers and 12 hypertensive patients. The urinary levels of prostaglandins 6-keto-PGF1 alpha (a metabolite of prostacyclin PGI2) and PGE2 were measured (HPLC) by radioimmunoassay after extraction and chromatographic separation. In normal subjects the urinary excretion rate of 6-keto-PGF1 alpha was 134 +/- 26 pg/min and that of PGE2 was 180 +/- 25 pg/min. The corresponding values were significantly lower in hypertensive patients. This defect of PGI2 and PGE2 renal synthesis was found in 64 p. 100 and 72 p. 100 respectively of patients with hypertension. Cicletanine increased the urinary excretion of 6-keto-PGF1 alpha by 45 p. 100 and that of PGE2 by 59 p. 100 in hypertensive patients. It also brought to normal limits the secretion of these prostanoids in these subjects. At the dose of 150 mg the drug stimulated natriuresis significantly and increased glomerular filtration in patients with essential hypertension. This renal effect of cicletanine was acutely reduced by the presence of indomethacin.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514675 TI - [Antihypertensive effectiveness and tolerance of cicletanine. Results obtained with monotherapy in a large population]. AB - A multicentre open study to which 229 investigators participated was carried out to demonstrate the safety of cicletanine, a new therapeutic agent, in routine clinical use. Cicletanine was administered alone for three months and normalized blood pressure (less than 160/95 mmHg) in 63 p. 100 of the 1,238 hypertensive patients who entered the study. There was a significant fall of systolic arterial pressure from 178.4 +/- 14.8 to 151.8 +/- 14.2 mmHg and a similar fall of diastolic arterial pressure from 104.0 +/- 6.7 to 86.3 +/- 6.2 mmHg. The reduction of BP values was accompanied by a significant decrease of differential BP (SBP-DBP) from 72.5 to 65.8 mmHg. The initial dosage (50 mg/day) was doubled in only one-third of the patients. The mean daily dose was 66 mg. This antihypertensive effect was paralleled by a significant and major improvement of signs (dyspnoea, oedema of the lower limbs) and symptoms (mainly dizziness, headache, visual and auditory disorders, asthenia) which existed at inclusion. A modest, but significant, reduction of heart rate from 76.7 to 73.9 beats/mn was also noted. Cicletanine produced no toxic or severe adverse events. Clinical side effects consisted of pruritus, fatigue, headache, vertigo, lower limb oedema and gastrointestinal disorders. These effects were mild and non-specific (doubtful drug imputability); each of them occurred with an incidence ranging from 4.0 to 1.0 p. 100. They were responsible for the withdrawal of about 30 patients (2.4 p. 100). No significant alteration of biochemical or haematological values was recorded.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514676 TI - [Dose-effectiveness relationship of cicletanine at short-term in moderately to severely hypertensive patients]. AB - In this double-blind trial, four-group study the effectiveness and safety of cicletanine in doses of 100 mg/day (n = 30, two of whom were excluded), 150 mg/day (n = 30) or 200 mg/day (n = 28, one of whom was excluded) were studied in patients with moderate or severe arterial hypertension (DBP greater than 95 mmHg). In patients with moderate hypertension (DBP less than 120 mmHg), the three dosage levels resulted in normalization of DBP (less than 95 mmHg) in 80 to 85 p. 100 of the cases, but in those with severe hypertension only doses of 150 and 200 mg/day were effective in significantly reducing DBP in 50 to 65 p. 100 of the cases. There was an important reduction of symptoms (palpitations, vertigo, headache) with all three doses, but only the 200 mg dose reduced dyspnoea. The drug was well tolerated both clinically and biochemically. In patients with severe hypertension, cicletanine 150 mg/day seems to be useful in short-term treatment, while in patients with moderate hypertension doses of 150 or 200 mg/day do not seem to be necessary, even in short-term treatment. PMID- 2514677 TI - Characterization of paramyxoviruses isolated from penguins in Antarctica and sub Antarctica during 1976-1979. AB - Nine paramyxovirus isolates obtained from penguins were tested for antigenic relationships amongst themselves and to other avian paramyxoviruses. One of the isolates was shown to be a lentogenic Newcastle disease virus (NDV), i.e., of PMV 1 serotype. By serological tests and analysis of structural polypeptides the other penguin isolates could be placed into three groups. No relationship with other avian paramyxoviruses could be determined except that six of the penguin viruses, representing two of the groups, showed reaction with a monoclonal antibody raised against NDV Ulster 2C and three of the isolates, representing one of the penguin groups, also reacted with another PMV-1 directed monoclonal antibody. PMID- 2514678 TI - Elder abuse, Arkansas law, and dental professional responsibility--Part 2. PMID- 2514679 TI - Restoration of alpha-lactalbumin-inhibited rat parotid salivary gland hypertrophy and hyperplasia by agents specific for membrane glycoprotein N-acetylglucosamine. AB - Chronic isoproterenol treatment of rats results in hypertrophy and hyperplasia of the parotid gland. This physiological change appears to be mediated in part by cell surface 4 beta-galactosyltransferase activity (EC No. 2.4.1.38) as the specific modifier protein. alpha-Lactalbumin, when injected concomitantly with isoproterenol, prevented both gland hypertrophy and hyperplasia. The further incorporation of agents with specificity for terminal N-acetylglucosamine residues of membrane glycoproteins in the above drug regimen resulted in the restoration of parotid gland hypertrophy and hyperplasia. These agents included soluble bovine 4 beta-galactosyltransferase and the lectin wheat-germ agglutinin. When plasma membranes were isolated from isoproterenol-treated parotid gland acinar cells, a new membrane glycoprotein with an apparent molecular mass of 30,000 Da was identified. This protein was not present in the membranes from control parotid glands. Therefore the transition from quiescent to active parotid acinar-cell proliferation appears to require two membrane events; the appearance of cell-surface galactosyltransferase and a new membrane glycoprotein substrate. PMID- 2514680 TI - Cleavage action of a trypsin-like protease from Bacteroides gingivalis 381 on reduced egg-white lysozyme. AB - Soluble reduced lysozyme was extensively digested by a trypsin-like protease purified from the culture supernatant of the bacterium. The digestion peptides were separated and purified by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography, and were subjected to amino acid analysis. The fragments were identified by their amino acid composition, and the cleavage sites in the lysozyme chain were determined. Like mammalian trypsin, the enzyme from B. gingivalis split peptide bonds non-specifically at carboxyl sides of internal arginine and lysine residues, but the lysine present at the amino terminus of the lysozyme chain was not released. In addition, the enzyme cleaved the peptide linkage at the amino side of lysine and bonds between leucine-glycine, alanine leucine and leucine-serine. Thus the trypsin-like protease from B. gingivalis has some cleavage actions on lysozyme different from those of mammalian trypsin. PMID- 2514681 TI - [Visual diagnosis: diastrophic dwarfism (Lamy-Maroteaux syndrome)]. AB - It is reported about the finding of a very typical case of the Lamy-Maroteaux Syndrome. This girl is four years old. PMID- 2514682 TI - Neuropeptide Y mobilizes intracellular Ca2+ and increases inositol phosphate production in human erythroleukemia cells. AB - The intracellular concentration of free Ca2+ was monitored by measuring the fluorescence of fura-2 loaded Human Erythroleukemia Cells. Neuropeptide Y (NPY) increased intracellular Ca2+ in a dose-dependent manner and the 50% effective concentration was 2 nM. Chelation of extracellular Ca2+ by EGTA did not reduce the NPY-mediated increase in cytoplasmic Ca2+, indicating that the increase in fluorescence was due to the release of intracellular Ca2+. A second dose of NPY, after intracellular Ca2+ had returned to basal levels, failed to elicit a response, indicating that the NPY receptor had undergone desensitization. In similar experiments, NPY increased the formation of inositol phosphates, suggesting that the mobilization of Ca2+ from intracellular stores in HEL cells was secondary to the generation of inositol phosphates and stimulation of phospholipase C. PMID- 2514683 TI - A genomic clone of Zfy-1 from a YDOM mouse strain detects post-meiotic gene expression of Zfy in testes. AB - In order to obtain a genomic clone of Zfy-1 from a Y chromosome of Mus musculus domesticus (YDOM) origin, we cloned size-fractionated SJL/J DNA in EMBL-4 and selected colonies which hybridized to pDP1007, a human zinc finger Y clone. The specificity of the clone in hybridizations to mouse and human DNA and partial sequencing confirmed that the clone (subcloned as pGZfy1D) was of Zfy-1 origin. Studies on the expression during testicular development of mRNAs hybridizing to the clone suggested that the gene is expressed post-meiotically. PMID- 2514684 TI - Absence of mutations in codon 61 of the Ha-ras oncogene in epithelial cells transformed in vitro by 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene. AB - Epithelial cells of the respiratory tract of rats were transformed in vitro by 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) which has been reported to cause A----T transversion mutations of the second position of Ha-ras in codon 61 in several biological models. In this study Ha-ras exon 2 was amplified by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and then sequenced directly. In 10 transformed cell lines, of which 5 are known to be tumorigenic, no mutations in codon 61 were found. The results suggest that Ha-ras codon 61 mutations are not associated with cell transformation initiated with DMBA in this particular cell transformation system. These data imply that other genes (oncogenes) are responsible for transformation of these cells. The results are discussed in relation to observations in various transformation systems in vivo and in vitro. PMID- 2514685 TI - Induction of c-fos mRNA in rat lymphoma Nb-2 cells. AB - Cyclosporin A, immunosuppressive agent, reversibly blocks the mitogenic effect of prolactin in rat lymphoma Nb-2 cells and removal from the medium leads to a rapid and transient induction of c-fos mRNA. Activators of protein kinase C, such as TPA, mellitin and phospholipase C and the calcium ionophore, A23187, induced c fos mRNA in the presence or absence of cyclosporin A. Activators of the cAMP pathway such as forskolin, dBcAMP and cholera toxin failed to induce c-fos mRNA in the presence or absence of cyclosporin A. These results suggest that cyclosporin A may act at the level of protein kinase C. PMID- 2514686 TI - Inhibition of protein kinase C by retro-inverso pseudosubstrate analogues. AB - A retro-inverso analogue of the pseudosubstrate sequence, Arg-Phe-Ala-Arg-Lys-Gly Ala25-Leu-Arg-Gln-Lys-Asn-Val (1), found in the regulatory domain of all protein kinase C (PKC) subspecies was synthesized. It shows to be an inhibitor (IC50 = 31 microM) of the phosphorylation, by PKC, of [Ala9.10,Lys11.12] glycogen synthase (1-12). Its analogue in which D Ala25 is replaced by D Ser is not a PKC substrate, but a more potent inhibitor, competitive with the peptidic substrate (IC50 = 5 microM, Ki = 2 microM). Both retro-inverso peptides are highly specific for PKC versus adenosine cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) and are totally stable towards proteolysis by trypsin or pronase. PMID- 2514688 TI - Transient expression of the angiotensin II receptor: a rapid and functional analysis of a calcium-mobilizing seven-transmembrane domain receptor in COS-7 cells. AB - The mas oncogene/angiotensin II receptor was subcloned into a mammalian expression vector pCDM8 and used to transiently transfect monkey kidney derived COS-7 cells. As a result, the mas transfected COS-7 cells expressed a functional angiotensin II receptor capable of transducing an increase in intracellular Ca2+ following stimulation with angiotensin II. The angiotensin II stimulated changes in Ca2+ could be measured 24 hours after transfection in both a fluorimeter and a fluorescence activated cell sorter. These results describe a rapid method for the functional analysis of the 7-transmembrane domain receptor genes. PMID- 2514687 TI - Tissue-specific expression of three types of beta-protein precursor mRNA: enhancement of protease inhibitor-harboring types in Alzheimer's disease brain. AB - Expression of three types of mRNA encoding amyloid beta-protein precursor (APP) in various tissues was analysed, using a ribonuclease protection assay, with special reference to Alzheimer's disease (AD). The total content and the proportion of APP mRNAs were specific to each tissue. Among eight tissues examined, the brain was distinct in that the expression level was highest and APP695 mRNA was expressed in abundance. The ratio of APP770/APP751/APP695 mRNAs was approximately 1:10:20 in the cerebral cortex of control brain. The proportions of APP770 mRNA and APP770-plus-APP751 mRNAs increased up to 2.6- and 1.4-fold, respectively, in various regions of AD brain compared with control. The enhanced expression of protease inhibitor-harboring types (APP770 and APP751) may disturb the balance between biosynthesis and degradation of APPs and ultimately lead to accumulation of beta-protein as amyloid. PMID- 2514689 TI - Sensitive model with which to detect athermal effects of non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation. AB - To clarify the potential of non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation to cause biological effects by athermal mechanisms, and to initiate elucidation of those mechanisms, a model system amenable to scrutiny at the molecular level has been designed and characterized. Assessment of beta-galactosidase activity in E. coli JM101 containing the plasmid pUC8 provides a sensitive assay with many important advantages. The ability to examine at the molecular level each of the processes involved in producing beta-galactosidase should permit elucidation of the molecular mechanism(s) that give rises to an observed effect. PMID- 2514690 TI - Locomotor effects of amperozide. Antagonism of amphetamine-induced locomotor stimulation. AB - Amperozide given subcutaneously (0.25 mg/kg) depressed amphetamine-induced locomotor activity by 40%. In the absence of amphetamine (1.5 mg/kg), this dose of amperozide had no effect on locomotor activity during the 60 min test period. Amperozide (0.1-1 mg/kg) dose-dependently decreased the locomotor activity of mice as measured in motron boxes. Only doses of amperozide greater than 0.25 mg/kg resulted in statistically significant (p less than 0.05) decreases in motor activity. Pretreatment of mice with flumazenil (10 mg/kg p.o., 30 min) or bicuculline (2 mg/kg i.p., 10 min) had no effect on amperozide (1 mg/kg)-induced hypomotility. These doses of the drugs had no effect per se. These results suggest that dopaminergic mechanisms might be involved in the amperozide-induced hypomotility. PMID- 2514691 TI - Effect of beraprost sodium on peripheral circulatory disturbances induced by various stimuli. AB - Effects of beraprost sodium (sodium(+/-)-(1R*,2R*,3aS*,8bS*)-2,3,3a,8b-tetrahydro 2-hydr oxy-1- [(E)-(3S*)-3-hydroxy-4-methyl-octen-6-ynyl]-1H-cyclopenta[b] benzofuran- 5-butyrate, TRK-100), a stable prostacyclin analogue, on the peripheral circulatory disturbances induced by various vasoconstrictive stimuli were studied. Orally administered beraprost sodium (10, 30 micrograms/kg) caused increase in skin blood flow in anesthetized rats and rise in skin temperature in conscious rats. Intravenously administered beraprost sodium (0.01-0.3 microgram/kg) reduced the recovery time of decreased pulse pressure by topical cooling of the leg in anesthetized rats. In conscious rabbits, intravenous infusion of beraprost sodium (10 micrograms/kg/min) inhibited the fluctuation of ear artery diameter, and dilated the ear artery and vein, resulting in a rise in the ear temperature. In anesthetized dogs, intravenously administered beraprost sodium (0.313-5 micrograms/kg) caused decrease in femoral blood flow and muscle blood flow in the hindlimb, however, it caused increase in skin blood flow at the hind leg instep. Furthermore, intra-arterially administered beraprost sodium (0.1 0.3 microgram/kg/min) under stimulation of lumbar sympathetic nerve caused increase in femoral artery blood flow and selective increase in the skin blood flow without affecting muscle blood flow.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514692 TI - 2-(2-hydroxy-4-methylphenyl)aminothiazole hydrochloride as a dual inhibitor of cyclooxygenase/lipoxygenase and a free radical scavenger. 1st communication: in vitro studies. AB - 2-(2-Hydroxy-4-methylphenyl)aminothiazole hydrochloride (CBS-113 A) inhibits cyclooxygenase in platelets and 5-lipoxygenase in leukocytes at micromolar concentrations. On the other hand the drug is a potent scavenger of oxygen derived free radicals. Moreover and possibly consequently, CBS-113 A inhibits the oxygen burst of stimulated leukocytes and the release of an interleukin 1-like compound from vascular endothelial cells in culture. These properties could lead to another activity of therapeutic interest in comparison with anti-inflammatory drugs already available. PMID- 2514693 TI - 2-(2-hydroxy-4-methylphenyl)aminothiazole hydrochloride as a dual inhibitor of cyclooxygenase/lipoxygenase and a free radical scavenger. 2nd communication: anti inflammatory activity. AB - The paper describes the topical anti-inflammatory activity of 2-(2-hydroxy-4 methylphenyl)aminothiazole hydrochloride (CBS-113 A), a dual inhibitor of cyclooxygenase/lipoxygenase and a potent free radical scavenger. When applied in eye drops (0.01 to 0.1% according to the model used), the drug inhibited inflammation in experimental conjunctivitis and uveitis induced by various procedures (e.g. paracentesis, endotoxin, S-antigen, albumin, Fe2+). The compound also inhibited leukocyte infiltration and histamine release when administered locally in pleural cavity with carrageenan. CBS-113 A could decrease plasma leakage induced by arachidonic acid or platelet activating factor in skin and airway, respectively. However, it was devoid of any activity when administered by systemic route. The compound appears as a potentially useful anti-inflammatory drug, in particular in ophthalmology and as an alternative to glucocorticoids, since it does not present the side effects of these steroids (e.g. worsening of herpetic keratitis). PMID- 2514694 TI - Bioequivalence and pharmacodynamics of a modified glibenclamide formulation in healthy volunteers. AB - A glibenclamide preparation (Glycolande N) with a modified galenic formulation was compared with a marketed standard preparation for bioequivalence and hypoglycaemic action after single oral administration of 3.5 mg. Twelve healthy male volunteers participated in this open two-way cross-over study. The confidence intervals around the mean values of the standard preparation were all in the range of +/- 20%. No significant differences were found between both formulations for Cmax, Tmax, AUC1 and AUC3. The glucose profiles were virtually equal. Both preparations are regarded as bioequivalent and therapeutically equivalent. PMID- 2514695 TI - Progress in purification of virus-inactivated factor VIII concentrates. Three generations of solvent/detergent treated plasma derivatives. AB - A production process of a newly developed highly purified and virus-inactivated Factor (F) VIII-concentrate (Octa V.I. and Octavi) is presented. Taking advantage of a selective resin matrix and the solvent/detergent procedure for virus inactivation--known not to denaturate proteins--a product of a specific activity greater than or equal to 100 IU F VIII/mg could be developed in the final container without the use of an immuno-affinity adsorption step. The main steps of the procedure are: Pooled cryoprecipitate is extracted, the extract is cleared from fibrinogen at + 10 degrees C and virus-inactivated at + 28 degrees C after addition of tributyl-phosphate (TNBP) and detergent. Thereafter the extract is brought in contact to a F VIII-selective anion exchange resin using a chromatographic column. TnBP and the detergent are removed by an extensive washing process and the F VIII-activity is concentrated in a fraction, ready for filling, by means of a cascade of wahing- and elution-buffers. The product is free from coagulable protein and gamma-globulins. The F VIIIC: Ag/F VIII:C-ratio is about unity, suggesting the F VIII-molecule remained in its native state. The development of highly purified F VIII concentrate is based on two previous products of lesser purity (spec. activity of about 1 and 10 IU/mg). The evolution is shown by a comparison of detailed analytical data. PMID- 2514696 TI - Variation in the apo AI/CIII/AIV gene complex: its association with hyperlipidemia. AB - This study shows that 33.3% of English patients with primary hyperlipidemia (52/156) had the S2 allele of the apo AI/CIII/AIV complex compared to 6.1% of normolipidemic individuals (3/49). The increased frequency of the allele was statistically significant in each of the hyperlipidemic groups (type IIA, excluding patients with FH, type IIB and IV) examined and was not specifically related to hypertriglyceridemia. This finding may account for the result of several studies which showed groups of patients with CHD had a significantly higher prevalence of the S2 allele than control groups. Our data do not support the notion that the increased frequency of this allele in CHD patients is independent of variations in plasma lipid levels, since we find the frequency of the S2 allele in an apparently healthy hyperlipidemic group of patients is very similar to a hyperlipidemic group with symptomatic premature atherosclerotic disease. This study also shows the BMI of the type IIB and IV hyperlipidemic patients is significantly higher than the type IIA (no xanthomas) group. This may modulate the expression of the defect associated with the S2 allele. When the type IIB and IV hyperlipidemic groups were divided into 2 groups according to their apo AI/CIII/AIV genotype (i.e., S1S1, S1S2 (including S2S2] there was no significant difference in the mean plasma level of total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and triglycerides between the 2 groups. In contrast the S1S2 type IIA individuals had higher plasma cholesterol levels. PMID- 2514697 TI - [Local treatment of Pseudomonas infection of the ear. A small clinical study]. AB - Infections of the middle and external ear caused by the problem-micro-organism Pseudomonas aeruginosa can be cured by local therapy with Ciprofloxacin and Tutofusin very quickly and without any complications. Drum ruptures caused by ear secretions close up again spontaneously. Tympanon tubes can be left in situ. Function disturbances of the middle and internal ear clear up and the functions return to normal. PMID- 2514698 TI - [Measures for reducing the rate of complications in endoscopic surgery of Zenker's diverticulum]. AB - In the treatment of the pharyngeal pouch diverticulectomy and endoscopic diverticulotomy are generally accepted. The latter can lead to severe bleeding and mediastinitis. --Therefore the authors have extended the preoperative diagnostic procedure to include a DSA of the aortic arch. The simultaneous contrast filling of the pouch enables the exact position of the blood vessels relative to the bar to be established. --With the spreadable diverticuloscope developed by the authors, the use of a CO2 laser and an operating microscope, optimum endoscopic working conditions are assured. Postoperative sealing of the wound margin with fibrin reduces the likelihood of postoperative bleeding and mediastinitis, the risk of which have been further reduced by antibiotic prophylaxis and tube feeding for eight days. During and after the treatment of ten patients not a single complication has arisen. PMID- 2514699 TI - Trauma to the spleen. PMID- 2514700 TI - Rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease in developing countries. AB - Rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease can be prevented by simple methods of primary health care. Well-organized prevention programmes can be cost-effective. Lasting benefit depends on the maintenance of both local interest and financial support from governments. PMID- 2514701 TI - Cytokines as communication signals between leukocytes and endothelial cells. AB - Hemostasis, inflammatory reactions and immunity involve close interactions between immunocompetent cells and the vascular endothelium. Cytokines, produced by and acting on endothelial cells, are mediators of the complex bidirectional interactions between leukocytes and vascular cells. Cytokines affect endothelial cell function in inflammation, thrombosis and angiogenesis, in addition to their role as accessory cells. As well as acting as targets for the action of cytokines, endothelial cells are important producers of polypeptide mediators that regulate hematopoiesis, the differentiation and proliferation of T and B cells and the extravasation of leukocytes. In this review, Alberto Mantovani and Elisabetta Dejana discuss endothelial cells as important participants in the induction and regulation of coagulation, inflammation and immunity and cytokines as crucial mediators of the symbiotic interactions between vascular cells and leukocytes. PMID- 2514702 TI - Thyroid hormone and growth: relationships with growth hormone effects and regulation. AB - For some years, research in the field of growth endocrinology has been mainly focused on growth hormone (GH). However, it appears that GH does not always control growth rate. For instance, it does not clearly influence intra-uterine growth: moreover, although the results of GRF or GH administration appear convincing in rats, pigs or heifers, this is not the case in chickens and lambs. In addition, GH does not always clearly stimulate somatomedin production, particularly diring food restriction and fetal life, and in hypothyroid animals or sex-linked dwarf chickens. In such situations, this phenomenon is associated with a reduced T3 production, suggesting a significant influence of thyroid function on GH action, and more generally, on body growth. In fact, numerous data demonstrate that thyroid hormone is strongly involved in the regulation of body growth. In species with low maturity at birth, such as the rat. T4 and T3 affect postnatal growth eleven days earlier than the appearance of GH influence. In contrast to GH, thyroid hormone significantly influences fetal growth in sheep. Moreover, the body growth rate is clearly stimulated by T3 in dwarf animals. In addition to its complex metabolic effects involved in the general mechanisms of body growth, thyroid hormone stimulates the production of growth factors, particularly EGF and NGF. Moreover, it affects GH and somatomedin production and also their tissue activity. All these results strongly suggest that it would be difficult to study GH regulation and physiological effects without taking thyroid function into account. PMID- 2514703 TI - [Digestion of pea and soya proteins in the preruminant calf. II. Apparent digestibility at the end of the ileum and the digestive tube]. AB - Three milk substitutes (control, pea and soya-bean) were given to 6 preruminant calves fitted with re-entrant canulas in the terminal ileum. In the control diet, protein was almost entirely provided by skim milk powder. In the pea diet, a pregelatinized dehulled pea flour provided 33.5% of the protein, the remainder being supplied by skim milk powder. In the soya-bean powder diet 73.2% of the protein were provided by a soya-bean isolate and the remainder by whey powder. The apparent digestibility of total nitrogen was significantly lower with the pea and soya-bean diets. than with the control diet (0.92, 0.91 and 0.95 at the end of the ileum, 0.92, 0.94 and 0.97 at the end of the whole digestive tract, respectively). Also the ileal digestibility of most amino acids decreased with the pea and soya-bean diets; the differences were greatest for cystine (-0.6; non significant) with the pea diet and for threonine (-0.7; P less than 0.01) with the soya-bean diet. Irrespective of the diet the protein escaping digestion in the small intestine appeared to be mainly from endogenous and bacterial origin. Although small amounts of partially degraded dietary protein could be present in ileal digesta with the pea and soya-bean diets, their true digestibility was probably very high. PMID- 2514704 TI - A decreased capacity of hepatic growth hormone (GH) receptors and failure of thyrotrophin-releasing hormone to stimulate the peripheral conversion of thyroxine into triiodothyronine in sex-linked dwarf broiler hens. AB - The effect of two different doses of thyrotrophic releasing hormone (TRH) upon the plasma levels of growth (GH) and thyroid hormones in both sex-linked dwarf (dw) and normal (Dw) broiler hens was determined. In normal hens, 1.5 and 24 microg TRH/kg increased the GH plasma concentrations after 15 min. Plasma concentrations of T3 increased significantly 1 h after TRH injection, whereas T4 concentration decreased after 2 following injection of 24 microg/kg TRH. In dwarf hens both doses of TRH increased the plasma concentrations of GH and the GH response lasted longer. However, TRH was ineffective in raising T3 and T4 levels. Saline-injected dwarf birds showed no differences in plasma T4 and T3 levels in comparison with normal hens. A smaller number of hepatic cGH receptors was found in dwarf hens, whereas the affinity of the hepatic GH receptor was not influenced by the genotype. It is concluded that the sex-linked dwarf broiler hen is unable to respond to a TRH-induced GH stimulus probably because of a deficiency in hepatic GH receptors resulting in a failure to stimulate the T4 to T3 converting activity. PMID- 2514706 TI - [The patient with chronic disease in need of care. Nursing guidance with the coping mechanism]. PMID- 2514705 TI - T cell clones and monoclonal antibodies: immunologic probes of major histocompatibility complex class I molecules. PMID- 2514707 TI - [HBO-V practice term in the USA (Higher Professional Education--Nursing)]. PMID- 2514708 TI - [What do patients think about information in the hospital?]. PMID- 2514709 TI - [Secondment--a unique solution for a current problem]. PMID- 2514711 TI - [The nursing specialist]. PMID- 2514710 TI - [The Amsterdamse Buitengasthuis]. PMID- 2514712 TI - [From generalist to specialist--experiences from the United States]. PMID- 2514713 TI - [The consultant]. PMID- 2514714 TI - [The nurse specialist. One's own practice]. PMID- 2514716 TI - [The nursing specialist in the organization]. PMID- 2514715 TI - [The nurse specialist. The researcher]. PMID- 2514717 TI - [The nurse specialist. Education]. PMID- 2514718 TI - ["We continue on with the concept of professional profile". Interview by Toine de Graaf and Jan Timmer]. PMID- 2514719 TI - [A short history of the Wilhelmina Gasthuis]. PMID- 2514721 TI - Proteolytic specificity of the neutral zinc proteinase from Bacillus mesentericus strain 76 determined by digestion of an alpha-globin chain. AB - The proteolytic specificity of the neutral zinc proteinase from Bacillus mesentericus strain 76 (MCP 76)/Bacillus subtilis was determined by using the alpha-chain of walrus hemoglobin as substrate. The resulting peptides were fractionated by gel filtration and than isolated by reversed-phase HPLC. The peptides were identified on the basis of their amino-acid compositions and aligned with the known sequence of the walrus alpha-chain. The proteolytic specificity of MCP 76, deduced from the experimental cleavage pattern is compared to that of thermolysin. The amino-acid residues in positions P1 and P'1 on both sides of the scissible bond are considered as most important for the cleavage. MCP 76 prefers leucine, valine, phenylalanine and threonine in position P'1 as well as lysine, threonine, leucine and alanine in position P1 and thus differs from thermolysin which shows no preference for threonine in P'1 and accepts numerous amino-acid residues of different type in P1. PMID- 2514720 TI - Effect of choline esters and oleic acid on the penetration of acyclovir, estradiol, hydrocortisone, nitroglycerin, retinoic acid and trifluorothymidine across hairless mouse skin in vitro. AB - Five choline esters, lauroylcholine, myristoylcholine, palmitoylcholine, stearoylcholine and oleoylcholine, were evaluated as skin penetration enhancers by testing their effects on the penetration of six drugs, acyclovir, 17 beta estradiol, hydrocortisone, nitroglycerin, all-trans-retinoic acid and trifluorothymidine, across hairless mouse skin in vitro and comparing the results to those obtained with oleic acid. The results show that the transdermal delivery of the drugs tested from propylene glycol vehicle systems, can be significantly increased by adding small amounts of choline esters and/or oleic acid to the vehicle. Lauroylcholine was a better enhancer than oleic acid for the transdermal delivery of 17 beta-estradiol and, in mixtures, lauroylcholine and oleic acid acted as synergists giving larger enhancement of the transdermal delivery of nitroglycerin and acyclovir than when used separately. PMID- 2514722 TI - Microbial metabolism of quinoline and related compounds. II. Degradation of quinoline by Pseudomonas fluorescens 3, Pseudomonas putida 86 and Rhodococcus spec. B1. AB - Quinoline catabolism was investigated with different bacterial strains, able to use quinoline as sole source of carbon, nitrogen and energy. Some degradation products of quinoline were isolated from the culture fluids and identified. With Pseudomonas fluorescens and Pseudomonas putida we found 2-oxo-1,2 dihydroquinoline, 8-hydroxy-2-oxo-1,2-dihydroquinoline, 8-hydroxycoumarin and 2,3 dihydroxyphenylpropionic acid as intermediates. With a Rhodococcus strain 2-oxo 1,2-dihydroquinoline, 6-hydroxy-2-oxo-1,2-dihydroquinoline, a red meta-cleavage product and a blue fluorescent compound were isolated. The red compound was identified as 5-hydroxy-6-(3-carboxy-3-oxopropenyl)-1H-2-pyridone. From this the blue fluorescent azacoumarin 2H-pyrano-2-one-[3,2b]-5H-6-pyridone is formed by chemical decomposition. Therefore it can be considered a by-product of quinoline degradation in Rhodococcus spec. With the present results two different degradation pathways for quinoline in different microorganisms are proposed. PMID- 2514723 TI - Qualitative and quantitative comparison of brain proteins in Alzheimer's disease. AB - In human brain extracts, most proteins of pathological interest in Alzheimer's disease are insoluble and their analysis is often performed on denatured and reduced samples by immunoblotting after electrophoresis on polyacrylamide gel in presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate. Because we needed to accurately compare the concentration of several proteins in brain extracts to investigate the etiology of the disease, the quantitative aspect of immunoblotting was assessed and the results compared for a soluble component with those obtained by electroimmunoassay. Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and Tau proteins were analysed by immunoblotting in brain homogenates treated with the Laemmli sample buffer from 10 control and 25 Alzheimer's disease brains. The linearity of densitometric measures of dilutions for one given sample was demonstrated. A 8 to 16-fold GFAP increase in Alzheimer brain was established. With regard to Tau proteins it was possible to show the presence of two pathological Tau variants (Tau 64 and 69) in all the Alzheimer brain homogenates, furthermore, the amount of Tau 64 and 69 was proportional to the presence of neurofibrillary degeneration. As far as alpha 1-antichymotrypsin is concerned, we showed, in a second set of brain samples (14 control and 12 Alzheimer brains), discrepancies between the results obtained by immunoblotting and by electroimmunoassay while for a given sample linearity of immunoblotting measures of dilutions of this sample was demonstrated. Quantitation by immunoblotting of such components which can be quantified using other procedures is uncertain whereas the interest of immunoblotting is undoubted for the insoluble proteins in the brain extracts. PMID- 2514724 TI - Influence of methionine supplementation in chelation of lead in rats. AB - The influence of methionine supplementation on the efficacy of common antidotes to lead poisoning, calcium disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate (CaNa2EDTA) and D penicillamine (DPA), was investigated in rats. The animals were given lead acetate (0.1% in drinking water) for 12 weeks and thereafter treated with CaNa2EDTA. DPA (0.3 mmol/kg, intraperitoneally), DL-methionine (1.34 mmol/kg, intragastrically), or the combination of a chelating agent and methionine for 3 days. While chelating agents enhanced the urinary excretion of Pb, methionine increased the fecal excretion of Pb significantly. Treatment with the combination of a chelating agent and methionine did not potentiate the effect of each antidote. However, methionine supplementation increased the efficacy of both chelating agents in reducing the hepatic and renal Pb burden but not the blood Pb level. The Pb-induced inhibition of blood delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase activity and the increase in urinary excretion of delta-aminolevulinic acid were reversed to a certain extent by CaNa2EDTA, DPA, and methionine but the combination did not improve their individual performances. The beneficial effects of methionine may be attributed to its ability to increase the bioavailability of glutathione (GSH), useful in chelating Pb and counter-acting the toxic effects, as evidenced by restoration of the Pb-induced decrease in hepatic GSH level by treatment with methionine. Methionine may be useful as a supportive therapy in chelation of Pb. PMID- 2514725 TI - A hygienic survey of the environment of underground space and buildings. AB - Full utilization of underground space and buildings could have positive economic and social effects. However, the microclimate and air quality must be well controlled so that they are not harmful to human health. This survey indicated that relative humidity is a common hygienic problem in underground space and buildings. Attention should be paid to humidity control and to the strengthening of routine ventilation at the construction stage. Carbon dioxide can be used as a hygiene index of air pollution: the sanitary standard for it in the air of underground buildings is 10%. The hygienic survey shows that the concentration of carbon dioxide is usually below this standard in the environments of underground space and buildings. PMID- 2514726 TI - The neutrophil. AB - In 'beneficial inflammation', which is the major component of our innate immune system, it is possible to predict an 'ideal' sequence of cellular events: neutrophil migration would be rapid; time of contact with endothelial cells minimized; matrix degradation localized, with specific turn-on and turn-off of degradation mechanisms; neutrophil secretion and disintegration would be kept to a minimum during bacterial killing; and finally, rapid cessation of neutrophil migration and rapid removal of intact senescent cells would occur. Any doubts that the cellular events of the early stages of acute inflammation normally involve highly sophisticated cellular interactions, presumably designed to minimize tissue perturbation, should be dispelled by two elegant recent studies of neutrophil-endothelial interaction. Clearly, defects in the control of these processes could tip the balance towards cell injury or excessive matrix degradation and initiate amplification mechanisms leading to persistent inflammation and disease. The further identification of molecular mechanisms of these events should permit specific intervention in neutrophil-mediated disease. However, it is important to remember, firstly, that the neutrophil is just a part of the highly redundant inflammatory process and the removal of one 'strand' does not mean that the whole 'web' breaks down, and secondly, that impairment of neutrophil mechanisms may critically impair our anti-bacterial defences. Therefore, continued attempts should be made to define how cells and mediators interact in concert, to determine the fine specificity of molecular mechanisms and, in parallel, to identify 'time windows' in diseases, during which these mechanisms are more critical to the processes damaging the host than they are essential to its defences. PMID- 2514727 TI - Immunoglobulin structure and function: the interaction between antibody and antigen. PMID- 2514728 TI - Prostaglandins and leukotrienes. PMID- 2514729 TI - Colony-stimulating factors, cytokines and hematopoiesis. PMID- 2514730 TI - AIDS 1989. A year in review. PMID- 2514731 TI - AIDS 1989. Clinical treatment: overview. PMID- 2514732 TI - State of antiretroviral therapy with zidovudine. PMID- 2514733 TI - Prophylaxis of opportunistic infections in individuals infected with HIV. PMID- 2514734 TI - Malnutrition in HIV infection and AIDS. PMID- 2514735 TI - The role of immunomodulators in the treatment of patients with AIDS. AB - In the last several years, the biologic modification of the immune system has become one of the therapeutic alternatives in medicine. The use of interferon alpha has resulted in both antineoplastic and antiviral effects in patients with AIDS-associated Kaposi's sarcoma. Trials currently underway will determine whether or not this drug, either alone or in combination with zidovudine, is of overall value to patients with early stages of HIV-1 infection. Hematopoietic growth factors, GM-CSF and erythropoietin in particular, offer new hope that the bone marrow suppressing toxicities of certain therapeutic agents such as zidovudine and ganciclovir can be ameliorated, thus allowing the more aggressive use of these important medications. Although a variety of non-biologic immunomodulators have been evaluated in patients with HIV-1 infection, none thus far has shown the clear clinical advantage that has been demonstrated for zidovudine and a variety of clinical trials continue in this area. The area of immunologic reconstitution, although promising in concept, has been disappointing in practice, even in combination with zidovudine. Recent approaches to immunomodulation have included active immunotherapy involving immunization of HIV 1 infected individuals with either inactivated virus or recombinant HIV-1 proteins. Continued investigation of the role of immunomodulation in the therapy of patients with HIV-1 infection should be of value, not only in developing better therapies for patients with HIV-infection, but also in helping develop a better understanding of the nature of the immunologic defects seen in the context of this infection. PMID- 2514736 TI - HIV tests and counselling: current issues. PMID- 2514737 TI - Care of HIV-infected people in the developing world: practical aspects. PMID- 2514738 TI - Issues in the clinical management of intravenous drug users with HIV infection. PMID- 2514739 TI - Models of clinical care. PMID- 2514740 TI - The treatment of asymptomatic HIV infection: lessons from the zidovudine experience. PMID- 2514741 TI - AIDS 1989. Social, cultural and political aspects: overview. PMID- 2514742 TI - International travel and AIDS. PMID- 2514744 TI - Perceptions of AIDS: the continuing saga of AIDS-related stigma. PMID- 2514746 TI - The impact of AIDS on socioeconomic development. PMID- 2514745 TI - Condoms for the prevention of HIV transmission: cultural dimensions. PMID- 2514747 TI - Social services for people with AIDS: needs and approaches. PMID- 2514748 TI - AIDS: the community-based response. PMID- 2514750 TI - Evaluation of AIDS prevention and control programs. PMID- 2514752 TI - AIDS 1989. Virology: overview. PMID- 2514753 TI - Review of AIDS and HIV infection: global epidemiology and statistics. PMID- 2514754 TI - Replicative capacity, cytopathic effect and cell tropism of HIV. AB - Naturally occurring HIV variants show distinct biologic features that correspond to the severity of HIV infection. Virus from asymptomatic HIV carriers or individuals with mild disease replicates slowly and inefficiently in the patients' peripheral blood mononuclear cell cultures. Attempts to passage these viruses in CD4-positive cell lines usually fail or result in transient replication only. In contrast, viruses from patients with severe immunodeficiency replicate rapidly and efficiently in peripheral blood mononuclear cell cultures as well as cell lines: hence the designation slow/low and rapid/high, respectively. These two groups of viruses can also be distinguished by the type of cytopathogenicity exerted in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Rapid/high viruses are characterized by extensive syncytia formation, whereas syncytia are rarely seen with slow/low viruses. Instead cultures infected with slow/low viruses show signs of cell death or no cytopathic changes at all. It has also been observed that shift from the slow/low type of virus to rapid/high may occur in the same individual over time. Whether this change signals the emergence of HIV variants with increased virulence or reflects the damage to the immune system that can no longer control virus replication remains to be seen. Rapid/high and slow/low viruses can also be distinguished by cell tropism when tested in a model system on indicator cell lines of T-lymphoid or monocytoid origin. Infection by rapid/high viruses activates chloramphenicol acetyl transferase in both T lymphoid and monocytoid indicator cells, whereas slow/low viruses activate chloramphenicol acetyl transferase only in monocytoid cell lines. A difference between slow/low and rapid/high viruses cannot be demonstrated in fresh normal macrophage cultures, since most isolates can be successfully passaged in macrophages. Whether the viruses that infect macrophages are truly macrophage tropic or dual-tropic, and infect macrophages and lymphocytes with equal efficiency, remains to be studied. PMID- 2514755 TI - AIDS 1989. Epidemiology: overview. PMID- 2514756 TI - Effects of preventive efforts among homosexual men. PMID- 2514757 TI - Partner notification for the prevention of HIV infection. PMID- 2514758 TI - Research on sexual behaviors that transmit HIV: progress and problems. PMID- 2514759 TI - Prevalence of HIV infection in the USA. PMID- 2514760 TI - Interactions of HIV infection with endemic tropical diseases. PMID- 2514761 TI - Epidemiology of HIV-2 infection. PMID- 2514762 TI - AIDS 1989. Vaccines and immunology: overview. PMID- 2514763 TI - Age, physical fitness, and mental processing speed. PMID- 2514764 TI - Comprehensive geriatric assessment. PMID- 2514765 TI - Depression in late life: an update. AB - Clinical and basic research units depressive disorders in late life have expanded our knowledge base appreciably in recent years. In the process, some clinical impressions have been confirmed (e.g., the association of depression and physical disorders); others have been refuted (e.g., depression increases with age); and now phenomena have been identified (e.g., the discovery of leukoencephalopathy in depressant elders who respond to ECT). The field of study now encompasses a range from neurobiology to sociocultural factors. The latter twentieth century is an exciting and optimistic era for clinicians working with depressed elders. As Sir Martin Roth has often said, "Where there is depression in late life, there is hope." PMID- 2514766 TI - Biopsychiatry in Alzheimer's disease. PMID- 2514767 TI - Drug-related cognitive impairment: current progress and recurrent problems. PMID- 2514768 TI - Mutual-aid groups: an underutilized resource among the elderly. PMID- 2514769 TI - Retirement preparation. PMID- 2514770 TI - Diabetes care in older adults: current issues in management and research. PMID- 2514771 TI - Policy and program options in community-oriented long-term care. PMID- 2514772 TI - Nutritional aspects of osteoporosis: recommendations for the elderly at risk. PMID- 2514773 TI - Urinary incontinence: medical and psychosocial aspects. AB - Recognition has been growing over the past two decades that urinary incontinence is a rather widespread condition among older adults. Prevalence rates of about 30% for any incontinence and about 5% for severe incontinence among older adults were suggested by several European studies and have recently been confirmed by American studies. The rates are typically higher among women than men. Despite these findings, much about the true distribution of urinary incontinence remains to be firmly established. The proportion of different types and the differences between sexes, ages, and races need to be confirmed using representative population samples and valid measures of incontinence. These distributions cannot be accurately described using clinical populations. Perhaps because urinary incontinence is viewed as highly embarrassing, it has not been a focus of media coverage or public discussion. More attention by the media and by health-care professionals would build public awareness of the condition. Older adults and their caregivers need to know that urinary incontinence is common and treatable, so that they will identify it promptly and bring it to their physicians' attention. Health-care providers and social workers must also be alert to the possibility of incontinence among their clients. They should be prepared to ask older patients directly, because many patients may disregard urine loss or be too embarrassed to mention it. Currently, much of the management of urinary incontinence appears to be self-devised. Many incontinent persons have not talked to a physician about their problem. The largest proportion of those who attempt to control their urine loss use absorbent products or try to avoid loss by awareness of toilet locations and frequent toileting. Reliance on these methods is unfortunate because much progress has been made in developing diagnostic and treatment procedures for urinary incontinence. For example, surgical procedures to rectify an incompetent sphincter have been shown to be effective and are generally accepted. There are a number of medications effective for controlling detrusor instability. Further, various behavioral techniques appear to be promising as noninvasive initial interventions for many patients. We are on weaker ground regarding the prevention of and early intervention in urinary incontinence. The existing epidemiological data on the development of incontinence are poor. We do not know the proportion of urinary incontinence that is transient and the proportion that is chronic or established. Nor do we know the risk factors for onset and progression of the condition.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2514774 TI - [Mathematical approach to the study of the capnographic curve]. AB - An application of Hill's formula in the interpretation of slope of second phase of capnographic curve is suggested. This method can be used to demonstrate an acute rising of airway resistances, but failed to discriminate between normal and chronically broncho-pulmonary obstructed subjects. We suggest that a study of modifications of second phase slope and Q angle can give more information about airway resistances. PMID- 2514775 TI - Effect of Pseudomonas aeruginosa rhamnolipid on human neutrophil and monocyte function. AB - The effect of rhamnolipid purified from culture supernatant of Pseudomonas aeruginosa on human peripheral blood neutrophil and monocyte function was studied. It was shown that rhamnolipid at concentrations of up to 100 micrograms/ml did not affect neutrophil and monocyte chemotaxis towards various chemoattractants. The rhamnolipid by itself did not show chemotactic activity and did not induce any oxidative burst response. Preincubation of monocytes with rhamnolipid enhanced the oxidative burst response of these cells to phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) and to opsonized zymosan by 2 to 5 fold. The priming effect was observed both in a superoxide assay and in a chemiluminescence assay. However, rhamnolipid did not prime the neutrophil oxidative burst response. Monocytes/macrophages are involved in the inflammatory process in the lung infections caused by P. aeruginosa and oxygen radicals are known to cause tissue damage. Therefore the priming by rhamnolipid of monocytes for enhanced generation of oxygen radicals may play a role in the pathogenesis of tissue damage in the lungs of cystic fibrosis patients with P. aeruginosa infections. PMID- 2514776 TI - Interferon-gamma is associated with the surface of the human immunodeficiency virus and binds to the gag gene product p17. AB - Purified HIV-1 antigen preparations produced in cell culture were found to contain interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma). Electron microscopic examination of HIV-1 released by H9 cells, a cell line found to produce IFN-gamma, showed the presence of this molecule on the surface of the virus particle. The HIV-1 protein p17 was found to bind IFN-gamma by a solid-phase radioimmunoassay. The specificity of the reaction was confirmed by Western blot analysis. This finding opens new questions about the biologic role of IFN-gamma itself and of its interaction with HIV. PMID- 2514777 TI - Levels of soluble CD8 antigen and circulating immune complexes in intravenous drug abusers: relationships to HIV antibody serology. AB - A total of 36 intravenous drug abusers (IVDA) were studied for circulating immune complexes (CIC) and serum soluble CD8 antigen (sCD8). None had symptoms or signs of AIDS-related complex or AIDS. sCD8 levels were significantly higher in 18 patients who had HIV antibody (Ab) compared with 18 patients who were HIV Ab negative (1640 +/- 578 virus 804 +/- 264 U/ml, p less than 0.0001). In HIV Ab+ patients but not in HIV Ab- patients, sCD8 levels significantly correlated with percentages and absolute numbers of activated CD3+DR+ peripheral blood mononuclear cells (p = 0.0024 and 0.0183, respectively). Also in HIV Ab+ patients, CIC levels were significantly greater for both anti-C3 binding (13.1 +/ 11.1 versus 2.9 +/- 3.4 micrograms/ml, p = 0.002) and C1q binding (23.5 +/- 20.2 versus 6.3 +/- 4.3 micrograms/ml, p = 0.001) CIC. Serum C4 concentrations were lower in the HIV Ab+ patient group (33.9 +/- 10.1 versus 41.6 +/- 12.4 mg/dL, p = 0.043). In the seropositive group, IgG levels were higher (2206 +/- 859 versus 1615 +/- 645 mg/dl) and total CD4 cell counts were lower (757 +/- 344 versus 1172 +/- 402 cells per mm3), but at a less significant level (p = 0.024 and 0.005, respectively), than that seen for sCD8 and C1q CIC differences. These results suggest that elevations of both the lymphocyte activation marker sCD8 and antigen nonspecific CIC characterize earlier stages of HIV infection in IVDA. PMID- 2514778 TI - Cerebral effects of fentanyl in dogs. AB - We have studied the cerebral haemodynamic and metabolic effects of fentanyl 50 micrograms kg-1 and 100 micrograms kg-1 in dogs undergoing ventilation with oxygen and nitrogen at normocapnia. Cerebral blood flow was measured continuously by direct measurement of the outflow of the posterior sagittal sinus. Arterial and sagittal sinus blood-gas tensions were measured intermittently for calculation of cerebral metabolism. Systemic pressures were measured continuously with intermittent measurements of cardiac output. These doses of fentanyl had minimal effect on cerebral blood flow, cerebral oxygen consumption and the energy state of the brain reflected by the normal concentration of cerebral metabolites at the end of the study. There was also little effect on systemic haemodynamics. It is concluded that, in the absence of other anaesthetic agents which might influence cerebral haemodynamics and metabolism, large doses of fentanyl have little effect on the cerebral circulation. PMID- 2514779 TI - Circulatory depression with high peep in the surfactant-deficient rabbit. AB - Surfactant depletion was induced by lung lavage in 10 rabbits. Ascending aortic blood flow was measured at normocapnia at 0, 5 and 10 cm H2O PEEP before and after lavage. Aortic blood flow was reduced by PEEP, by a maximum of 24% before lavage and 60% after lavage. It was concluded that, although adequate arterial oxygenation can be maintained with 10 cm H2O PEEP in surfactant-depleted rabbit's lungs, the circulatory impairment may result in inadequate oxygen delivery. PMID- 2514780 TI - Monitoring of end-tidal carbon dioxide partial pressure during high frequency jet ventilation. AB - A new method has been developed to measure end-tidal carbon dioxide partial pressure (PECO2) during high frequency jet ventilation (HFJV). A digital flow controller incorporated in a computerized high frequency jet ventilator was used to deliver either a single deep breath or a series of three deep breaths. On user request, HFJV was interrupted and the deep breaths delivered, after which HFJV was resumed. Using a mathematical model, we were able to predict accurately the pressures to which the lungs would be inflated during deep breaths. The effect of varying the deep breath pressure (Pdb) on the ratio of end-tidal PCO2 to arterial (PCO2 (PECO2:PaCO2) was studied in three dogs. In all the dogs, within an optimum Pdb range of 5-10 cm H2O, PECO2 during the first deep breath was found to be similar (+/- 0.2 kPa) to the PaCO2 immediately before the onset of deep breaths. Deep breaths delivered above or below the optimum Pdb range resulted in a decrease in the ratio PECO2:PaCO2. The frequency of jet ventilation (12-200 b.p.m.) before the onset of the deep breaths did not affect PECO2:PaCO2. PMID- 2514781 TI - Influence of end-expiratory lung volume on carbon dioxide elimination during high frequency ventilation in dogs. AB - We have examined the effect of varying end-expiratory lung volume on carbon dioxide elimination in 10 mongrel dogs undergoing conventional mechanical ventilation at 12 b.p.m. and forced diffusion ventilation (FDV) at 6 Hz and 50 Hz and continuous flow. End-expiratory volumes were altered by changing the pressure in a plethysmographic box in which the dogs underwent ventilation. The pressures studied were atmospheric, sub-atmospheric (box pressure -1.0 kPa) and increased atmospheric (box pressure + 0.5 kPa). The results indicated that more carbon dioxide was eliminated at low lung volumes and this was most pronounced with HFV at 50 Hz and continuous flow. It is postulated that changes in airway geometry and different lung volumes may alter the distance between the gas interface in the conductive airways and the respiratory zone and so alter the efficiency of ventilation during FDV. PMID- 2514782 TI - Spiramycin versus penicillin V in the empiric treatment of bacterial tonsillitis. AB - The efficacy and safety of spiramycin were compared with those of penicillin V in the treatment of 55 patients with acute bacterial tonsillitis. The most frequently isolated pathogens were streptococci and about one-third were group A/beta haemolytic streptococci. There was one clinical failure in the patients treated with penicillin, and none with spiramycin. No side effects were reported in either of the treatment groups. Thus in this study, spiramycin proved to be equivalent to penicillin in the treatment of acute bacterial tonsillitis in adults. PMID- 2514783 TI - Cutaneous fibrinolytic potential, tPA dependent, is reduced in Behcet's disease. AB - We report our studies on the cutaneous and plasma fibrinolytic activities (FA) in nine patients with Behcet's disease (BD) as compared with nine normal controls. The euglobulin lysis time of the plasma and cutaneous fibrinolytic activity were determined in these patients. The studies showed that the plasma fibrinolytic activity was reduced in the patients with BD and there was impaired cutaneous fibrinolytic potential, tPA dependent, in those patients with venous and arterial thromboses. PMID- 2514784 TI - Farber's lipogranulomatosis in siblings: light and electron microscopic studies. AB - Two cases of Farber's lipogranulomatosis in siblings are reported. The clinical features included contractures of the limbs with swelling of the joints and subcutaneous nodules and erythematous infiltrated plaques. On histology there were many large foam cells in the dermis, and electron microscopy showed numerous large cells with round cytoplasmic lamellar and microtubular bodies. PMID- 2514785 TI - Anticardiolipin antibodies and lupus anticoagulants comprise separate antibody subgroups with different phospholipid binding characteristics. AB - Autoantibodies to phospholipid antigens can be characterized using solid phase immunoassays to detect anticardiolipin antibodies (ACA) or in phospholipid dependent clotting tests where lupus anticoagulant (LA) activity can be demonstrated. It has not been established whether each activity is due to the same or separate antibody subgroups. Plasma from two patients with high levels of both activities were used for purification of ACA and LA using sequential ion exchange, gel-filtration, and anti-Ig affinity chromatography. Plasma could be separated into fractions containing each activity in the absence of the other. In these fractions, antibodies responsible for LA activity do not bind to isolated phospholipids in solid phase immunoassays, and conversely antibodies binding in these assays (ACA) do not possess LA activity, suggesting LA are directed against a more complex lipid epitope. In addition, in one patient ACA was of IgG isotype only, whilst LA was due to IgG and IgM isotypes. In this patient, the IgG-ACA was heterogeneous with three peaks clearly separated on ion-exchange chromatography. Affinity purified antiphospholipid antibodies have been previously prepared from a number of patients using a phosphatidyl-serine column and antibodies purified in this manner possess ACA but not LA activity. Taken together, these data indicate that tests for ACA and LA define separable subgroups of phospholipid binding antibodies, thus explaining the discordance often seen between the two activities. PMID- 2514786 TI - Decreased amount of the Rh antigen D in hereditary spherocytosis (HS). AB - This study was done to determine whether hereditary spherocytosis (HS) red blood cells (RBC) have decreased amounts of Rh antigens. Initially we studied the RBC of five members of one family, two of whom had HS. Using automated quantitative haemagglutination tests, we demonstrated that HS RBC agglutinated less with Rh antisera of four specificities than did normal RBC, indicating that Rh antigens are decreased on HS RBC. In this family, the strength of other blood group antigens on HS RBC was estimated by manual titres and agglutination scores. No appreciable differences in the agglutination of HS and normal RBC were observed with non-Rh antisera. To assess the strength of the D antigen more accurately, the number of D sites was quantitated on the RBC of 19 individuals with HS and 11 of their healthy relatives. HS RBC had 9209 +/- 4084 (mean +/- SD) D sites, whereas the normal RBC had 15 394 +/- 5763 D sites. These two means were significantly different (P less than 0.01). HS RBC were also compared to normal RBC of unrelated individuals who had the same Rh phenotype. These analyses showed that HS RBC had about half of the normal number of D sites. Our data indicate that HS red cells have decreased amount of the Rh antigen D and probably also of other Rh antigens. PMID- 2514787 TI - Escherichia coli initiation factor 3 protein binding to 30S ribosomal subunits alters the accessibility of nucleotides within the conserved central region of 16S rRNA. AB - Translational initiation factor 3 (IF3) is an RNA helix destabilizing protein which interacts with strongly conserved sequences in 16S rRNA, one at the 3' terminus and one in the central domain. It was therefore of interest to identify particular residues whose exposure changes upon IF3 binding. Chemical and enzymatic probing of central domain nucleotides of 16S rRNA in 30S ribosomal subunits was carried out in the presence and absence of IF3. Bases were probed with dimethyl sulfate (DMS), at A(N-1), C(N-3), and G(N-7), and with N-cyclohexyl N'-[2-(N-methyl-4-morpholinio)ethyl] carbodiimide p-toluenesulfonate (CMCT), at G(N-1) and U(N-3). RNase T1 and nuclease S1 were used to probe unpaired nucleotides, and RNase V1 was used to monitor base-paired or stacked nucleotides. 30S subunits in physiological buffers were probed in the presence and absence of IF3. The sites of cleavage and modification were detected by primer extension. IF3 binding to 30S subunits was found to reduce the chemical reactivity and enzymatic accessibility of some sites and to enhance attack at other sites in the conserved central domain of 16S rRNA, residues 690-850. IF3 decreased CMCT attack at U701 and U793 and V1 attack at G722, G737, and C764; IF3 enhanced DMS attack at A814 and V1 attack at U697, G833, G847, and G849. Many of these central domain sites are strongly conserved and with the conserved 3'-terminal site define a binding domain for IF3 which correlates with a predicted cleft in two independent models of the 30S ribosomal subunit. PMID- 2514788 TI - Purification and characterization of a hepatic mitochondrial cytochrome P-450 active in aflatoxin B1 metabolism. AB - We have previously shown that phenobarbital (PB) increases hepatic mitochondrial cytochrome P-450 (P-450) content and also the ability to metabolize hepatocarcinogen, aflatoxin B1 [Niranjan, B. G., Wilson, N. M., Jefcoate, C. R., & Avadhani, N. G. (1984) J. Biol. Chem. 259, 12495-12501]. In the present study, we have purified a mitochondrial-specific P-450 with an apparent molecular mass of 52 kdaltons (termed P-450mt3) from PB-induced rat liver using a combination of hydrophobic and ion exchange column chromatography procedures. Polyclonal antibody to P-450mt3 failed to cross-react with P-450mt1 and P-450mt2 purified from beta-naphthoflavone- (BNF) induced rat liver mitochondria. Furthermore, P 450mt3 shows an N-terminal amino acid sequence (Ala-Ile-Pro-Ala-Ala-Leu-Arg-Thr Asp) different from those of both P-450mt1 and P-450mt2, as well as microsomal P 450b. The polyclonal antibody to P-450mt3 cross-reacted with a P-450 of comparable size purified from uninduced mitochondria. These two isoforms, however, showed difference with respect to catalytic properties and amino acid composition. In vitro reconstitution experiments show that P-450mt3 can actively metabolize diverse substrates including (dimethylamino)antipyrine, benzphetamine, and aflatoxin B1 but shows a low vitamin D3 25-hydroxylase activity. The mitochondrial P-450 from uninduced livers, on the other hand, shows relatively high [229 pmol min-1 (nmol of P-450)-1] vitamin D3 25-hydroxylase activity but a considerably lower ability for aflatoxin B1 metabolism and no detectable activity for (dimethylamino)antipyrine and benzphetamine metabolism.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514789 TI - Dehydroquinate synthase: the role of divalent metal cations and of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide in catalysis. AB - The cofactor requirements of dehydroquinate synthase from Escherichia coli have been characterized. The homogeneous enzyme, purified from the overproducing strain RB791 (pJB14), is a monomeric metalloenzyme of Mr = 39,000 that contains 1 mol of tightly bound Co(II) according to atomic absorption analysis. The holoenzyme rapidly loses activity upon incubation with EDTA, giving rise to a stable but catalytically inactive apoenzyme. Activity is fully restored by reconstitution with Co(II) and partially restored with other divalent cations. Reconstitution of the apoenzyme with Zn(II) (which is probably the functioning metal in vivo) restores activity to 53% of the level observed with the Co(II) holoenzyme. The presence of the substrate 3-deoxy-D-arabino-heptulosonate 7 phosphate (1) blocks the inactivation by EDTA. Dehydroquinate synthase also binds 1 mol of NAD+, the presence of which is essential for catalytic activity. The rate constant for the dissociation of NAD+ from the Co(II)-holoenzyme was found to be 0.024 min-1. Under turnover conditions with saturating levels of substrate, the dissociation rate of NAD+ increases by a factor of 40, to 1 min-1. Under these conditions (pH 7.5, 20 degrees C), the Km for NAD+ was determined to be 80 nM. PMID- 2514790 TI - Crystal structure of guanosine-free ribonuclease T1, complexed with vanadate (V), suggests conformational change upon substrate binding. AB - Ribonuclease T1 was crystallized in the presence of vanadate(V). The crystal structure was solved by molecular replacement and refined by least-squares methods using stereochemical restraints. The refinement was based on data between 10 and 1.8 A and converged at a crystallographic R factor of 0.137. Except for the substrate-recognition site the three-dimensional structure of ribonuclease T1 closely resembles the structure of the enzyme complexed with guanosine 2' phosphate and its derivatives. A tetrahedral anion was found at the catalytic site and identified as H2VO4-. This is the first crystal structure of ribonuclease T1 determined in the absence of bound substrate analogue. Distinct structural differences between guanosine-free and complexed ribonuclease T1 are observed at the base-recognition site: The side chains of Tyr45 and Glu46 and the region around Asn98 changed their conformations, and the peptide bond between Asn43 and Asn44 has turned around by 140 degrees. We suggest that the structural differences seen in the crystal structures of free and complexed ribonuclease T1 are related to conformational adjustments associated with the substrate binding process. PMID- 2514791 TI - Cell-type-specific and site-specific N-glycosylation of type I and type II human tissue plasminogen activator. AB - Tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) is an important initiator of fibrinolysis. The t-PA polypeptide has four potential N-glycosylation sites of which three are occupied in type I (Asn-117, -184, and -448) and two in type II (Asn-117 and 448). In an effort to elucidate the factors controlling the expression of N linked oligosaccharides on this polypeptide, we have used a combination of sequential exoglycosidase digestion, methylation analysis, and controlled acetolysis to determine the oligosaccharide structures at each of the N glycosylation sites of type I and type II t-PA when isolated from a human colon fibroblast cell strain and from a Bowes melanoma cell line. Our results suggest the following: (i) type I and type II t-PA are N-glycosylated in an identical way at Asn-117 and Asn-448, when isolated from the same cell line; (ii) Asn-117 is predominantly associated with oligomannose-type structures in all cases; (iii) Asn-184 and Asn-448 are predominantly associated with complex-type structures when t-PA is isolated from fibroblast cells, but with both complex- and oligomannose-type structures when isolated from melanoma cells; (iv) fibroblast cell derived t-PA is associated with both neutral and sialylated oligosaccharides, while melanoma cell derived t-PA is also associated with sulfated oligosaccharides, which are located exclusively at Asn-448 of type II t PA; (v) no complex-type structures occur in common between t-PA from the two cell lines. These results indicate that the t-PA glycoprotein is secreted by each cell line as a set of glycoforms, each glycoform being unique with respect to the nature and disposition of oligosaccharides on a common polypeptide. Further, the two cell lines express no glycoform in common, despite expressing the same t-PA polypeptide. The implications of these results for both the control of oligosaccharide processing in different cell lines and the genetic engineering of mammalian glycoproteins are discussed. PMID- 2514792 TI - Effects of N-glycosylation on in vitro activity of Bowes melanoma and human colon fibroblast derived tissue plasminogen activator. AB - Tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA), when isolated from human colon fibroblast (hcf) cells, is N-glycosylated differently than when isolated from the Bowes melanoma (m) cell line (Parekh et al., 1988). Both hcf- and m-t-PA can be separated into type I t-PA (with three occupied N-glycosylation sequons, at Asn 117, -184, and -448) and type II t-PA (with two occupied sequons, at Asn-117 and 448). Oligosaccharide analysis of each of these types of t-PA indicates that hcf t-PA and m-t-PA have no glycoforms in common, despite having the same primary amino acid sequence. We have therefore compared in vitro the enzymatic activities and fibrin binding of type I and type II hcf- and m-t-PA with those of aglycosyl t-PA isolated from tunicamycin-treated cells. Plasminogen activation kinetics were determined by using an indirect amidolytic assay with Glu-plasminogen and a chromogenic plasmin substrate. In the absence of stimulator, there was little difference in activity between type I and type II t-PA, but the activity of aglycosyl t-PA was 2-4-fold higher than that of the corresponding glycosylated t PA. In the presence of a fibrinogen fragment stimulator, the Kcat value of type II t-PA was approximately 5-fold that of type I t-PA from the same cell line, while the Km values for activation of Glu-plasminogen were similar (0.13-0.18 microM). The stimulated activity of glycosyl t-PA was similar to that of type II t-PA.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514793 TI - N-glycosylation and in vitro enzymatic activity of human recombinant tissue plasminogen activator expressed in Chinese hamster ovary cells and a murine cell line. AB - To probe the effects of N-glycosylation on the fibrin-dependent plasminogenolytic activity of tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA), we have expressed a human recombinant t-PA (rt-PA) gene in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells and in a murine C127 cell line. The resulting rt-PA glycoproteins were isolated and their associated N-linked oligosaccharide structures determined by using a combination of high-resolution Bio-Gel P-4 gel filtration chromatography, sequential exoglycosidase digestion, and methylation analysis. The results show that CHO rt PA is N-glycosylated differently from murine C127 derived rt-PA. Further, both rt PA's are N-glycosylated differently from t-PA derived from a human colon fibroblast and the Bowes melanoma cell line (Parekh et al., 1989), confirming that N-glycosylation of the human t-PA polypeptide is cell-type-specific. Both CHO and murine rt-PA were fractionated on lysine-Sepharose chromatography. The N glycosylation of the major forms was analyzed and their fibrin-dependent plasminogenolytic activity determined by using an indirect amidolytic assay with Glu-plasminogen and a chromogenic plasmin substrate. The results suggest that the various forms of rt-PA differ from one another with respect to the kinetics of their fibrin-dependent activation of plasminogen. Together, these data support the notion (Wittwer et al., 1989) that N-glycosylation influences the fibrin dependent catalytic activity of t-PA and that t-PA when expressed in different cell lines may consist of kinetically and structurally distinct glycoforms. PMID- 2514794 TI - Substrate reduction properties of dinitrogenase activated in vitro are dependent upon the presence of homocitrate or its analogues during iron-molybdenum cofactor synthesis. AB - (R)-2-Hydroxy-1,2,4-butanetricarboxylic acid [(R)-homocitrate] has been has been recently reported to be an integral constituent of the otherwise thought to be inorganic iron-molybdenum cofactor of dinitrogenase [Hoover, T.R., Imperial, J., Ludden, P.W., & Shah, V.K. (1989) Biochemistry 28,2768-2771]. Different organic acids can substitute for homocitrate in an in vitro system for iron-molybdenum cofactor synthesis and incorporation into dinitrogenase [Hoover, T.R., Imperial, J., Ludden, P.W., & Shah, V. K. (1988) Biochemistry 27, 3647-3652]. Dinitrogenase activated with homocitrate-FeMo-co was able to reduce dinitrogen, acetylene, and protons efficiently. Homoisocitrate and isocitrate dinitrogenases did not reduce dinitrogen or acetylene, but showed very high proton reduction activities. Citrate and citramalate dinitrogenases had very low dinitrogen reduction activities and intermediate acetylene and proton reduction activities. CO inhibited proton reduction in both these cases but not in the case of dinitrogenases activated with other homocitrate analogues. By use of these and other commercially available homocitrate analogues in the in vitro system, the structural features of the homocitrate molecule absolutely required for the synthesis of a catalytically competent iron-molybdenum cofactor were determined to be the hydroxyl group, the 1- and 2-carboxyl groups, and the R configuration of the chiral center. The stringency of the structural requirements was dependent on the nitrogenase substrate used for the assay, with dinitrogen having the most stringent requirements followed by acetylene and protons. PMID- 2514795 TI - Simultaneous determination of the reducible and nonreducible cross-links of connective tissue. Analysis of mineralized and nonmineralized bone collagen. AB - Secondary amine cross-links occur in collagen and elastin from a number of tissue sources. Quantification of these cross-links by amino acid analysis is complicated by the problem of separating cross-links, which are often minor components, from the more common amino acids and also because relatively large amounts of a cross-link are required to determine a color factor. A specific radioactive labeling method has been developed and used to quantify cross-links in bone collagen. Primary amines such as lysine and hydroxylysine are first guanidinated with 3,5-dimethylpyrazole-1-carboxamidine nitrate (DMPC). Secondary amines, which are unreactive with DMPC, are then quantitatively cyanoethylated with [14C]acrylonitrile. This procedure can be used to detect any secondary amine cross-link, with higher sensitivity than ninhydrin analysis, in peptide form as well as in acid hydrolysates. It is applied here in conjunction with [3H]NaBH4 reduction to simultaneously quantify Schiff base cross-links and amounts of in vivo reduction of Schiff bases in mineralized versus nonmineralized bovine bone. PMID- 2514797 TI - Role of histidine 64 in the catalytic mechanism of human carbonic anhydrase II studied with a site-specific mutant. AB - To test the hypothesis that histidine 64 in the active site of human carbonic anhydrase II functions as a proton-transfer group in the catalysis of CO2 hydration, we have studied a site-specific mutant having histidine 64 replaced by alanine, which cannot transfer protons. The steady-state kinetics of CO2 hydration has been measured as well as the exchange of 18O between CO2 and water at chemical equilibrium. The results show that the rate of exchange between CO2 and HCO3- at chemical equilibrium is essentially unaffected by the amino acid substitution at pH greater than 7.0 and slightly decreased in the mutant at pH less than 7.0 (by a factor of 2 at pH 6.0). However, in the absence of buffer the rate of release from the active site of water bearing substrate oxygen is smaller by as much as 20-fold for the mutant as compared to unmodified enzyme. Furthermore, in the unmodified enzyme water release is inhibited by micromolar concentrations of Cu2+ ions, but no such inhibition is observed with the alanine 64 variant. These results suggest that the mutation has specifically affected the rate of proton transfer between the active site and the reaction medium. This kinetic defect in the mutant can be overcome by increasing the concentration of certain buffers, such as imidazole and 1-methylimidazole, but not by others buffers, such as MOPS or HEPES. Similarly, the maximal rate of CO2 hydration at steady state catalyzed by the alanine 64 variant is very low in the presence of MOPS or TAPS buffers but considerably higher in the presence of imidazole derivatives.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514796 TI - 13C NMR of methylated lysines of fd gene 5 protein: evidence for a conformational change involving lysine 24 upon binding of a negatively charged lanthanide chelate. AB - Helical complexes formed between fd DNA and reductively methylated fd gene 5 protein were indistinguishable by electron microscopy from complexes formed with the nonmethylated protein. 13C NMR spectroscopy of 13C-enriched N epsilon, N epsilon-dimethyllsyl residues of the protein showed that three of these residues (Lys-24, Lys-46, and Lys-69) were selectively perturbed by binding of the oligomer d(pA)7. These were the same lysyl residues that we previously found to be most protected from methylation by binding of the protein to poly[r(U)] [Dick, L. R., Sherry, A. D., Newkirk, M. M., & Gray D. M. (1988) J. Biol. Chem. 263, 18864-18872]. Thus, these lysines are probably directly involved in the nucleic acid binding function of the protein. Negatively charged chelates of lanthanide ions were used to perturb the 13C NMR resonances of labeled lysyl and amino terminal residues of the gene 5 protein. The terbium chelate was found to bind tightly (Ka approximately 10(5) M-1) to the protein with a stoichiometry of 1 chelate molecule per protein dimer. 13C resonances of Lys-24, Lys-46, and Lys-69 were maximally shifted by the terbium chelate and were maximally relaxed by the gadolinium chelate. Also, the terbium chelate was excluded by the oligomer d(pA)7. Computer fits of the induced chemical shifts of 13C resonances with those expected for various positions of the terbium chelate failed to yield a possible chelate binding site unless the chemical shift for Lys-24 was excluded from the fitting process.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514798 TI - Activation of immobilized, biotinylated choleragen AI protein by a 19-kilodalton guanine nucleotide-binding protein. AB - Cholera toxin catalyzes the ADP-ribosylation that results in activation of the stimulatory guanine nucleotide-binding protein of the adenylyl cyclase system, known as Gs. The toxin also ADP-ribosylates other proteins and simple guanidino compounds and auto-ADP-ribosylates its AI protein (CTA1). All of the ADP ribosyltransferase activities of CTAI are enhanced by 19-21-kDa guanine nucleotide-binding proteins known as ADP-ribosylation factors, or ARFs. CTAI contains a single cysteine located near the carboxy terminus. CTAI was immobilized through this cysteine by reaction with iodoacetyl-N-biotinyl hexylenediamine and binding of the resulting biotinylated protein to avidin agarose. Immobilized CTAI catalyzed the ARF-stimulated ADP-ribosylation of agmatine. The reaction was enhanced by detergents and phospholipid, but the fold stimulation by purified sARF-II from bovine brain was considerably less than that observed with free CTA. ADP-ribosylation of Gsa by immobilized CTAI, which was somewhat enhanced by sARF-II, was much less than predicted on the basis of the NAD:agmatine ADP-ribosyltransferase activity. Immobilized CTAI catalyzed its own auto-ADP-ribosylation as well as the ADP-ribosylation of the immobilized avidin and CTA2, with relatively little stimulation by sARF-II. ADP-ribosylation of CTA2 by free CTAI is minimal. These observations are consistent with the conclusion that the cysteine near the carboxy terminus of the toxin is not critical for ADP ribosyltransferase activity or for its regulation by sARF-II. Biotinylation and immobilization of the toxin through this cysteine may, however, limit accessibility to Gsa or SARF-II, or perhaps otherwise reduce interaction with these proteins whether as substrates or activator. PMID- 2514799 TI - Steps in the conversion of alpha-ketosuberate to 7-mercaptoheptanoic acid in methanogenic bacteria. AB - The biosynthetic steps involved in the conversion of alpha-ketosuberate to 7 mercaptoheptanoic acid were studied in cell-free extracts of methanogenic bacteria. The pathway was established by measuring the incorporation of stable isotopically labeled precursors into the S-methyl ether methyl ester derivative of the enzymatically generated 7-mercaptoheptanoic acid by using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Quantitation of the 7-mercaptoheptanoic acid produced in the incubations with the substrates was accomplished by using an internal standard of 6-mercaptohexanoic acid. [4,4,6,6-2H4]-2-Oxosuberic acid, [7 2H]-7-oxoheptanoic acid, [2-2H]-2(RS)-(5-carboxypentyl)thiazolidine-4(R) carboxylic acid, and S-(6-carboxyhexyl)cysteine were each shown to be converted to 7-mercaptoheptanoic acid. Incubation of cell extracts with a mixture of 2(RS) (5-carboxypentyl)thiazolidine-4(R)-carboxylic acid and [2-2H]-2-(RS)-(5 carboxypentyl)-[34S]thiazolidine-4(R)-carboxylic acid showed that both 34S and 2H are incorporated into the 7-mercaptoheptanoic acid but only after separation of the cysteine from the [7-2H]-7-oxyheptanoic acid portion of the molecule. Furthermore, the sulfur from the cysteine was incorporated into the thiol only after its elimination from the cysteine and subsequent mixing with an unlabeled sulfur source which had a molecular weight of sufficient size that it was excluded from Sephadex G-25. Hydrogen sulfide was found to supply the sulfur for the production of the 7-mercaptoheptanoic acid in a reaction that was shown to obtain its reducing equivalents from hydrogen via an F420-dependent hydrogenase. PMID- 2514800 TI - In vitro conversion of formate to serine: effect of tetrahydropteroylpolyglutamates and serine hydroxymethyltransferase on the rate of 10-formyltetrahydrofolate synthetase. AB - Serine hydroxymethyltransferase and C1-tetrahydrofolate synthase catalyze four reactions which convert formate and glycine to serine. The one-carbon carrier in these reactions if tetrahydropteroylglutamate which is regenerated in the coupled reaction and thus can be used in catalytic concentrations with respect to serine synthesis. The rate of serine synthesis is followed by the oxidation of NADPH during reduction of the intermediate 5,10-methenyltetrahydropteroylglutamate. Km values for the substrates of cytosolic serine hydroxymethyltransferase and the 10 formyltetrahydrofolate synthetase activity of the trifunctional enzyme C1 tetrahydrofolate synthase were determined. This included the values for the polyglutamate forms of tetrahydropteroylglutamate containing from one to six glutamate residues. The results suggest that the synthetase active site binds the polyglutamate forms of the coenzyme synergistically with respect to formate and ATP. Using saturating levels of all substrates, the kcat values for the serine hydroxymethyltransferase and 10-formyltetrahydrofolate synthetase activities were also determined. The synthetase reaction is the rate-determining step in the conversion of formate to serine. The effect of glutamate chain length and the concentration of serine hydroxymethyltransferase were studied with respect to the rate of serine formation. Tetrahydropteroylmonoglutamate gave slower than expected rates which is attributed to its inhibition of the reduction of the intermediate 5,10-methenyltetrahydropteroylglutamate. This inhibition was not a factor with the di- through hexaglutamate forms of the coenzyme. The addition of an excess of serine hydroxymethyltransferase was predicted to lower the rate of the formation of serine by lowering the concentration of free coenzyme in the assay. However, activation of the rate was observed which was at least 2-fold greater than the predicted rate. This increase in predicted rate appears to result from an interaction between C1-tetrahydrofolate synthase and serine hydroxymethyltransferase. The in vivo concentrations of serine hydroxymethyltransferase and C1-tetrahydrofolate synthase in rabbit liver were determined. PMID- 2514801 TI - Mitochondrial NADH:ubiquinone reductase: complementary DNA sequence of the import precursor of the bovine 75-kDa subunit. AB - The 75-kDa subunit of complex I (NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase) from bovine heart mitochondria is its largest subunit and is a component of the iron-sulfur (IP) fragment of the enzyme. It is encoded in nuclear DNA and is imported into the organelle. Protein sequences have been determined at the N-terminus of the intact protein and on fragments generated by partial cleavage with cyanogen bromide and with Staphylococcus aureus protease V8. Parts of these data have been used to design two mixtures of oligonucleotides 17 bases long, containing 192 and 256 different sequences, which have been synthesized and used as hybridization probes for identification of cognate cDNA clones. Two different but overlapping clones have been isolated, and the sequences of the cloned DNAs have been determined. Together they code for a precursor of the 75-kDa subunit of complex I. The mature protein is 704 amino acids in length, has a calculated molecular mass of 75,961 daltons, and contains no segments of sequence that could be folded into hydrophobic alpha-helixes of sufficient length to span the inner membrane of the mitochondrion. Its precursor has an N-terminal extension of 23 amino acids to specify its import into the mitochondrion from the cytoplasm. Seventeen cysteine residues are dispersed throughout the 75-kDa subunit; some of them are close to each other in the sequence in three separate groups and, by analogy with other iron-sulfur proteins, could be involved in iron-sulfur clusters.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514802 TI - Oxidation of glycated proteins: age-dependent accumulation of N epsilon (carboxymethyl)lysine in lens proteins. AB - N epsilon-(Carboxymethyl)lysine (CML) has been identified as a product of oxidation of fructoselysine (FL) in glycated (nonenzymatically glycosylated) proteins in vitro and has also been detected in human tissues and urine [Ahmed et al. (1986) J. Biol. Chem. 261, 4889-4894]. In this study, we compare the amounts of CML and FL in normal human lens proteins, aged 0-79 years, using specific and sensitive assays based on selected ion monitoring gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Our results indicate that the lens content of FL increases significantly between infancy and about age 5 but that there is only a slight, statistically insignificant increase in FL between age 5 and 80 (mean +/- SD = 1.4 +/- 0.4 mmol of FL/mol of Lys). In contrast, the lens content of the oxidation product, CML, increased linearly with age, ranging from trace levels at infancy up to 8 mmol of CML/mol of lysine at age 79. The ratio of CML to FL also increased linearly from 0.5 to 5 mol of CML/mol of FL between age 1 and 79, respectively. These results indicate that CML, rather than FL, is the major product of glycation detectable in adult human lens protein. The age-dependent accumulation of CML in lens protein indicates that products of both glycation and oxidation accumulate in the lens with age, while the constant rate of accumulation of CML in lens with age argues against an age-dependent decline in free radical defense mechanisms in this tissue. PMID- 2514804 TI - Mechanism of interaction of O-amino-D-serine with sheep liver serine hydroxymethyltransferase. AB - The mechanism of interaction of O-amino-D-serine (OADS) with sheep liver serine hydroxymethyltransferase (EC 2.1.2.1) (SHMT) was established by measuring changes in the enzyme activity, absorption spectra, circular dichroism (CD) spectra, and stopped-flow spectrophotometry. OADS was a reversible noncompetitive inhibitor (Ki = 1.8 microM) when serine was the varied substrate. The first step in the interaction of OADS with the enzyme was the disruption of enzyme-Schiff base, characterized by the rapid disappearance of absorbance at 425 nm (6.5 X 10(3) M-1 s-1) and CD intensity at 430 nm. Concomitantly, there was a rapid increase in absorbance and CD intensity at 390 nm. The spectral properties of this intermediate enabled its identification as pyridoxal 5'-phosphate (PLP). These changes were followed by a slow unimolecular step (2 X 10(-3) s-1) leading to the formation of PLP-OADS oxime, which was confirmed by its absorbance and fluorescence spectra and retention time on high-performance liquid chromatography. The PLP-OADS oxime was displaced from the enzyme by the addition of PLP as evidenced by the restoration of complete enzyme activity as well as by the spectral properties. The unique feature of the mechanism proposed for the interaction of OADS with sheep liver SHMT was the formation of PLP as an intermediate. PMID- 2514803 TI - Inactivation of the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex of Escherichia coli by fluoropyruvate. AB - The pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDH complex) of Escherichia coli and its pyruvate dehydrogenase component (E1) are rapidly inactivated by low concentrations of fluoropyruvate in a thiamin pyrophosphate (TPP) dependent process. The inactivation rates for the PDH complex and for its E1 component are similar. Pyruvate protects the PDH complex and the E1 component against inactivation by fluoropyruvate. Dihydrolipoamide protects the E1 component from inactivation. TPP is not covalently bound to the PDH complex or to the E1 component by the inactivating reaction. When [14C]fluoropyruvate is used to inactivate the PDH complex, 14C remains bound to the complex after gel filtration. This bound radioactivity is cleaved from the protein by NH2OH, -OH, and NaBH4 but not by dilute acid. When released by -OH, greater than 90% of the 14C cochromatographs with acetate on DEAE-Sephadex. When released by NaBH4, and 14C is recovered as [14C]ethanol. Colorimetric analysis for sulfhydryl groups on the native E1 component and the inactivated E1 component, using 5,5'-dithiobis(2 nitrobenzoate), reveals that complete inactivation results from covalent modification of 1.37 +/- 0.03 sulfhydryl residues. Fluoropyruvate is known to generate acetyl-TPP at the active site of E1. The available evidence indicates that acetylation of a sulfhydryl group by acetyl-TPP at the active site of the E1 component inactivates the enzyme. PMID- 2514805 TI - A 23-kDa protein as a substrate for protein kinase C in bovine neutrophils. Purification and partial characterization. AB - In 32Pi-loaded bovine neutrophils stimulated with phorbol myristate acetate (PMA), radioactivity was preferentially incorporated into a protein of low molecular mass, suggesting a PKC-dependent phosphorylation. This protein, termed 23-kDa protein, was predominantly localized in the cytosol. It was purified from bovine neutrophil cytosol by a series of chromatographic steps, including ion exchange on DE-52 cellulose and Mono Q, and filtration on Bio-Gel P60 in the presence of mercaptoethanol and urea. The apparent molecular mass of the purified protein, assessed by SDS-PAGE and mercaptoethanol by reference to protein markers, ranged between 20 and 23 kDa, depending on the percentage of polyacrylamide and conditions of migration. In the absence of mercaptoethanol, a dimer accumulated. Homogeneity of the 23-kDa protein was verified by 2D-PAGE analysis. Some properties of the 23-kDa protein, including its amino acid composition, were determined. Gel isoelectric focusing (IEF) of the purified 23 kDa protein followed by Coomassie blue staining allowed the visualization of four discrete protein bands with isoelectric points ranging between pH 6.3 and 6.7. Phosphorylation of the 23-kDa protein by [gamma-32P]ATP in the presence of bovine neutrophil PKC supplemented with Ca2+, phosphatidylserine, and diacylglycerol or with PMA occurred on serine and required the presence of mercaptoethanol. The apparent KM of ATP was 9 microM. The 23-kDa protein was also phosphorylated by PKM, the catalytic fragment of PKC obtained after removal of the regulatory domain, but not by cAMP-dependent protein kinase.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514806 TI - Tissue and species distribution of mRNA encoding two ADP-ribosylation factors, 20 kDa guanine nucleotide binding proteins. AB - Cholera toxin catalyzed ADP-ribosylation of Gs alpha, the stimulatory guanine nucleotide binding protein of the adenylyl cyclase system, is enhanced by approximately 20-kDa guanine nucleotide binding proteins, termed ADP-ribosylation factors or ARFs. ARF is an allosteric activator of the A1 catalytic protein of the toxin. Bovine ARF cDNA clones, ARF-1 isolated from adrenal (Sewell & Kahn, 1988) and ARF-2B from retina (Price et al., 1988), exhibit nucleotide and deduced amino acid sequences that are 80% and 96% identical, respectively, in the coding region. To determine tissue and species distribution of ARF-like mRNAs, bovine ARF-2B and human ARF-1 cDNAs and 30- or 48-base oligonucleotide probes that distinguish between ARF-1 and ARF-2B cDNAs in coding and 3'-untranslated regions were used for Northern analysis of poly(A+) RNA from different tissues and species. On the basis of hybridization with specific oligonucleotide probes, all bovine tissues contained mRNAs of 1.7 and 2.1 kb that were related to ARF-1 and ARF-2B, respectively. Northern analysis of brain poly(A+) RNA from different species with ARF-2B and ARF-1 cDNAs at low stringency demonstrated several bands varying in size from 0.9 to 3.7 kb. A 1.7-kb band consistently hybridized with an ARF-1 30-base coding-region probe but not with a probe for the 3'-untranslated region. Similar ARF-2B oligonucleotide probes did not hybridize with rat, mouse, rabbit, or human brain mRNA. Cleavage of ARF-2B cDNA with PvuII generated two fragments, one containing coding and the other 3'-noncoding region.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514807 TI - Binding of sulfonamide and acetamide to the active-site Zn2+ in carbonic anhydrase: a theoretical study. AB - Self-consistent field molecular orbital (SCF MO) calculations at both 4-31G and STO-3G levels have been used to examine the binding conformations of sulfonamide and acetamide compounds to the active site of carbonic anhydrase. The results are as follows: (1) sulfonamide binds to the Zn2+ ion in its deprotonated form through the sulfonamide nitrogen to the fourth coordination site of the metal ion; (2) acetamide as neutral species binds to the basic form of the enzyme through the carbonyl oxygen to the fifth coordination site of the metal ion; and (3) the acetamidate ion binds to the acid form of the enzyme through the amide nitrogen to form a tetracoordinated metal complex with three histidine ligands. Analysis of the effects of individual active-site residues on the binding conformations of these inhibitors suggests that metal alone favors bidentate coordination of sulfonamidate and acetamidate complexes and that electron donation from three histidine ligands to the metal ion determines the formation of a tetracoordinated metal complex, which is further stabilized by the presence of Thr 199, as it receives one hydrogen bond from the sulfonamide NH- or from the acetamide NH- and donates a backbone NH hydrogen bond to a sulfonamide oxygen. The calculated binding conformation of sulfonamide and the hydrogen-bonding interactions between sulfonamide and the enzyme are consistent with the X-ray diffraction study of the AMSulf-HCA II complex. However, no X-ray structures are available for amide-HCA II complexes.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514808 TI - Intermolecular engagement of estrogen receptors indicated by the formation of a high molecular weight complex during activation. AB - After exposure to ligand at 0-4 degrees C, estrogen receptors from mouse uteri characteristically eluted between thyroglobulin (Mr 669,000) and ferritin (Mr 443,000) during size-exclusion HPLC. However, when preparations were warmed with ligand under mild activating conditions, most or all of the receptor was observed as a much larger complex, which eluted between dextran blue 2000 and thyroglobulin. Formation of the large complex required ligand, was inhibited by molybdate, and occurred even in 0.4 M KCl. Slower ligand dissociation characterized the large complex, indicating that activated receptors were included preferentially. This large complex did not form when charged cytosols were aged, concentrated, or precipitated, indicating that formation was not the result of random aggregation. After exposure to conditions commonly used for activation (25 degrees C, 60 min), most receptor existed as a very large, monodisperse complex of finite size, predicting an ordered structure for these large complexes that should be useful for defining the types of proteins which can interact with estrogen receptors. Formation of the large complex was not impeded or disrupted by EDTA, RNase, DNase I, thiourea, or mercaptoethanol; however, the capacity to form this large complex was not demonstrated by preparations that had been exposed to trypsin or by the small receptor forms obtained after salt extraction. Proteolytic sensitivity and lack of sensitivity to RNase or DNase indicate that interactions between receptors and other proteins are involved in peak A formation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514809 TI - [Alkoxylipids of prokaryotes]. PMID- 2514810 TI - Bioinequivalence of a generic brand of diazepam. AB - Twenty-six healthy male volunteers received a single 10 mg dose of diazepam on two occasions in a crossover bioequivalence study comparing the reference product (Valium) and a generic formulation (NeoCalme). Concentrations of diazepam and its metabolite, desmethyldiazepam, were determined during 264h after each dose. Peak plasma diazepam concentrations were significantly lower for NeoCalme vs Valium (247 vs 394 ng ml-1, p less than 0.001) and reached significantly later after the dose (1.62 vs 0.98 h, p less than 0.001). Total area under the plasma concentration curve (AUC) was also significantly lower for NeoCalme (6614 vs 7552 ng ml-1 x h, p less than 0.001), although AUC ratios for NeoCalme divided by Valium satisfied the '75-75' guidelines. Findings for desmethyldiazepam were similar. Thus, diazepam absorption from the generic brand of diazepam is significantly slower than from Valium, which in turn could lead to therapeutic inequivalence. PMID- 2514811 TI - [The effect of valproic acid on sleep structure and ethanol consumption in rats with various types of individual reactivity before and after stress exposure]. AB - The influence of valproic acid on sleep structure and alcohol motivation was studied in pretyped rats prior and following REM sleep deprivation. During EEG recording of wake-sleep cycle valporoic acid was shown to produce hypnotic action dependent on drug dosage in high active and low active animals. There was also shown that following REM sleep deprivation low active animals significantly reduced ethanol consumption under valproic acid influence. It seems likely from the results obtained that valproic acid could be used as hypnotic and antialcoholic drug. PMID- 2514812 TI - [The effect of fractionated exposure to unequal concentrations of chemical mutagens]. AB - The effect of unequally fractionated concentrations of dipin and thiophosphamid on chromosomes of human lymphocytes was investigated at Go phase. There were used five low concentrations of mutagens 2, 0.2, 2.10(-2), 2.10(-3), 2.10(-4) mcg/ml and one high concentration 20 mcg/ml by which cells have been treated. Decrease of chromosome breaks and exchanges were observed, but the level of the aberration cell was stable. The "protective" levels for dipin were in concentrations of 0.2, 2.10(-2), 2.10(-3) mcg/ml. Only one "protective" concentration was 2.10(-2) mcg/ml. PMID- 2514813 TI - [The effect of chondroitin sulfate preparations on wound healing and the strength of the surgical scar]. AB - An experimental investigation of the ability of the chondroitinsulphate preparation produced from cattle tracheas, of rumalon and chonsuride to stimulate the regeneration of cutaneous coverings in case of their injury was carried out. A strength of the surgical cicatrix and its elongation at rupture in two weeks' injections of chondroitinsulphate increased in comparison with control. A stimulating effect of chondroitinsulphate to regeneration of flesh wound in case of local single action didn't differ essentially from the effect of chonsuride. In case of application of the preparations, an area of wound for the rats received chondroitinsulphate was already on the eighth day twice as less in comparison with the animals treated with chonsuride. Thus, a stimulating effect of chondroitinsulphate preparation to the regeneration of damaged cutaneous coverings by both parenteral and local administration was shown. PMID- 2514814 TI - Antitumor activity of the antiprogestins ZK 98.299 and RU 38.486 in hormone dependent rat and mouse mammary tumors: mechanistic studies. AB - In the transplantable MXT mammary tumor model of the mouse and in the DMBA- and MNU-induced mammary tumor models of the rat, the progesterone antagonists ZK 98.299 and RU 38.468 were shown to have potent antitumor activity. The weight and/or morphology of the ovaries, uterus, and vagina, as well as the effects on serum hormone levels, indicate that the antitumor activity of both antiprogesterones in these models does not depend on a blockade of the ovarian and pituitary functions and does not depend on a non receptor-mediated cytotoxic effect. On the other hand, the morphology of the MXT and the DMBA-induced mammary tumors after treatment with the progesterone antagonists is completely different from that observed after ovariectomy. Treatment with the antiprogesterones seems to trigger differentiation of the mitotically active polygonal tumor cells towards glandular structures and acini with a massive sequestering of secretory products, as well as towards spindle-shaped necrobiotic subpopulations. By contrast, the induction of tumor cell degeneration and cytolysis is the predominant feature of the mammary tumors after ovariectomy. In conclusion, our results indicate that the main mechanism of the antitumor action of antiprogesterones in these models is a direct progesterone receptor-mediated antiproliferation effect at the level of the mammary tumor cells, most probably via the induction of terminal differentiation associated with terminal cell death. This antiproliferative effect seems to be dissociated from the antihormone (antiprogestational) activity of these progesterone antagonists. PMID- 2514816 TI - Autonomic innervation of the spleen of the coho salmon, Oncorhynchus kisutch. a histochemical demonstration and preliminary assessment of its immunoregulatory role. AB - Regulation of immunity by the nervous system, now a well-established phenomenon in mammals, is effected in part through the autonomic innervation of lymphoid tissues. Noradrenergic fibers specifically target lymphocyte-rich areas in mammalian lymphoid tissues, and their ablation, or the administration of adrenergic agents, can significantly alter immune responses. This study demonstrates that the spleen of the coho salmon is also richly innervated by adrenergic neurons. While this innervation enters the spleen and remains largely associated with the splenic vasculature, fibers can also be observed entering the parenchyma. Although the coho spleen does not possess a well-developed white pulp, aggregations of leukocytes are found adjacent to the major blood vessels in close proximity to the vascular nervous tissue and parenchymal fibers. Chemical sympathectomy with 6-hydroxydopamine results in a significant enhancement of the splenic antibody-secreting cell response to trinitrophenylated sheep red blood cells. These results suggest that sympathectomy is removing a constraint, in the form of inhibitory catecholamines, on the immune response. The potential benefits from a teleost model of neural-immune interactions are discussed. PMID- 2514815 TI - Inhibitory effect of androgens on DMBA-induced mammary carcinoma in the rat. AB - Constant release of the androgen 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in ovariectomized rats bearing DMBA-induced mammary carcinoma caused a marked inhibition of tumor growth induced by 17 beta-estradiol (E2). That DHT acts through interaction with the androgen receptor is supported by the finding that simultaneous treatment with the antiandrogen Flutamide completely prevents DHT action. Particularly illustrative of the potent inhibitory effect of DHT on tumor growth are the decrease by DHT of the number of progressing tumors from 69.2% to 29.2% in E2-treated animals and the increase by DHT of the number of complete responses (disappearance of palpable tumors) from 11.5% to 33.3% in the same groups of animals. The number of new tumors appearing during the 28-day observation period in E2-treated animals decreased from 1.5 +/- 0.3 to 0.7 +/- 0.2 per rat during treatment with DHT, an effect which was also reversed by the antiandrogen Flutamide. The present data demonstrate, for the first time, that androgens are potent inhibitors of DMBA-induced mammary carcinoma growth by an action independent of inhibition of gonadotropin secretion, and suggest an action exerted directly at the tumor level. PMID- 2514817 TI - von Willebrand factor and its disorders: an overview of recent molecular studies. AB - von Willebrand factor (vWF) is a plasma protein with multiple functions in haemostasis. The vWF gene, located on chromosome 12p2.1, encodes a primary gene product of 2813 amino acids. Post-translational modification, assembly and secretion of vWF are highly complex. The pro vWF promoter is covalently linked by intermolecular disulphide bonds to form a dimer of MW approximately 440 kDa. This then polymerises to form multimers ranging in MW from 1-20 x 10(6). Simultaneously the pro piece of vWF is cleaved, releasing a 741 amino acid peptide known as vW Ag II from the polymerised protomers. Two distinct secretion pathways are found in the endothelial cell, a regulated pathway with storage in Weibl-Palade bodies and a constitutive pathway. Platelets store vWF in their alpha-granules. Mature vWF participates in platelet adhesion, spreading and aggregation and is a carrier of factor VIII, protecting the latter from degradation. Disorders of vWF are highly diverse. At least 20 subtypes of von Willebrand's disease have been described to date, based on features of the vWF present in or absent from patients plasma and platelets. Some patients have reduced amounts of apparently normal vWF whilst others have clearly abnormal vWF with aberrant structure and function. Rare patients virtually or completely lack vWF. The genetic and structural basis of some of these abnormalities is just beginning to emerge. This article outlines the molecular biology and physiology of vWF, and reviews some recent progress on the molecular pathology and genetics of von Willebrand's disease. PMID- 2514818 TI - Selective decontamination of the digestive tract. PMID- 2514819 TI - Anticardiolipin antibody. PMID- 2514820 TI - Hearing problems of elderly people. PMID- 2514821 TI - Congenital malformations. PMID- 2514822 TI - Suburban AIDS. PMID- 2514823 TI - Five year plan for HEA. PMID- 2514824 TI - Oxytocin infusion during second stage of labour in primiparous women using epidural analgesia: a randomised double blind placebo controlled trial. AB - OBJECTIVE: To determine whether the high rate of forceps delivery associated with the use of epidural analgesia could be reduced through giving an intravenous infusion of oxytocin during the second stage of labour. DESIGN: A randomised, double blind, placebo controlled trial. SETTING: Delivery suites in three hospitals. SUBJECTS: 226 Primiparous women with adequate epidural analgesia in whom full dilatation of the cervix had been achieved without prior stimulation with oxytocin. INTERVENTION: An infusion of oxytocin or placebo starting at the diagnosis of full cervical dilatation at an initial dose rate of 2 mU/min increasing to a maximum of 16 mU/min. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The outcome of labour was assessed in terms of the duration of the second stage, mode of delivery, fetal condition at birth, postpartum blood loss, and the incidence of perineal trauma. RESULTS: Treatment with oxytocin was associated with a shorter second stage (p = 0.01), a reduction in the number of non-rotational forceps deliveries (p = 0.03), and less perineal trauma (p = 0.03) but was not associated with any reduction in the number of rotational forceps deliveries performed for malposition of the occiput. No adverse effects on fetal condition at birth or in the early puerperium were seen in association with the use of oxytocin. CONCLUSIONS: The use of an oxytocin infusion may reduce the high rate of operative delivery associated with epidural analgesia provided that the fetal occiput is in an anterior position at the onset of the second stage of labour but within the dose range studied does not seem to correct malposition of the fetal occiput. PMID- 2514825 TI - Risk of cancer of the breast after legal abortion during first trimester: a Swedish register study. AB - An increase in induced abortions in Sweden has been accompanied by an increase in the incidence of breast cancer of about 40% in women aged 20-44. To assess whether the apparent risk is real the risk of breast cancer was investigated in practically all Swedish women with a history of a legal abortion in the first trimester before the age of 30 during 1966-74 (n = 49,000). The cohort was followed up in the Swedish cancer register to identify cases of breast cancer diagnosed more than five years after the abortion until the end of 1984. The number of observed cases of breast cancer was 65 compared with an expected number of 84.5, estimated from the contemporary Swedish population with due consideration to age, giving a relative risk of 0.8 (95% confidence interval 0.58 to 0.99). Contrary to most earlier reports, this study did not indicate any overall increased risk of breast cancer after an induced abortion in the first trimester in young women. PMID- 2514826 TI - Caring at night for people with multiple sclerosis. PMID- 2514827 TI - Use of oestrogen replacement therapy in high risk groups in the United Kingdom. PMID- 2514828 TI - Parenteral antimalarial drugs: availability in acute hospitals. PMID- 2514829 TI - Diversity in the practice of district ethics committees. AB - A survey of ethics committees in district health authorities was carried out to find out the size and make up of committees and what information and guidance they offered to scientists who apply to do research. A sample (n = 28) of committees in England (n = 190), half from teaching districts and half from non teaching districts, was contacted by post requesting this information. A high degree of diversity was found, not only in the methods that committees used but also in the ethical criteria each considered to be pertinent for research. It was also shown that published guidelines have made little impact. It is suggested that issuing more guidelines will be of limited use. Rather, the following are needed: information about why guidelines have been widely ignored, better communication between committees, some form of education for committee members, and a formal register of committees compiled. PMID- 2514830 TI - Health and housing: Noise, space, and light. PMID- 2514831 TI - ABC of transfusion. Testing before transfusion, and blood ordering policies. PMID- 2514832 TI - Travel to a conference (obtaining funding). PMID- 2514833 TI - Osteogenesis imperfecta in the differential diagnosis of child abuse. PMID- 2514834 TI - Wigs. PMID- 2514835 TI - Central bronchogenic cyst: treatment by extrapleural percutaneous aspiration. PMID- 2514836 TI - Conductive education. PMID- 2514837 TI - Deprivation and health. PMID- 2514838 TI - Is sudden infant death syndrome a diagnosis? PMID- 2514839 TI - Organs for transplantation. PMID- 2514840 TI - Hoarse cry with fatal outcome. PMID- 2514841 TI - Non-melanoma skin cancer. PMID- 2514842 TI - Mumps meningitis after mumps, measles, and rubella vaccination. PMID- 2514843 TI - "Operation Cataract". PMID- 2514844 TI - In spectacular retreat. PMID- 2514845 TI - Sweeping away superstition. PMID- 2514846 TI - Detection of deep venous thrombosis. PMID- 2514847 TI - Chlamydia trachomatis infection. PMID- 2514848 TI - Consultations in general practice. PMID- 2514849 TI - Training for general practice. PMID- 2514851 TI - Looking at complementary medicine. PMID- 2514850 TI - Routine antibiotics for caesarean section. PMID- 2514852 TI - Hospital admissions before and after shipyard closure. PMID- 2514853 TI - Scottish hearts but British habits. PMID- 2514854 TI - Osteoarthritis. PMID- 2514855 TI - Patient power in mental health. PMID- 2514856 TI - The senses of the newborn. PMID- 2514857 TI - Cytotoxic drugs for gastric and colorectal cancer. PMID- 2514858 TI - Mortality among oral contraceptive users: 20 year follow up of women in a cohort study. AB - OBJECTIVE: To see whether the use of oral contraceptives influences mortality. DESIGN: Non-randomised cohort study of 17,032 women followed up on an annual basis for an average of nearly 16 years. SETTING: 17 Family planning clinics in England and Scotland. SUBJECTS: Women recruited during 1968-74. At the time of recruitment each woman was aged 25-39, married, a white British subject, willing to participate, and either a current user of oral contraceptives or a current user of a diaphragm or intrauterine device (without previous exposure to the pill). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Overall mortality and cause specific mortality. RESULTS: 238 Deaths occurred during the follow up period. The main analyses concerned women entering the study while using either oral contraceptives or a diaphragm or intrauterine device. The overall relative risk of death in the oral contraceptive users was 0.9 (95% confidence interval 0.7 to 1.2). Though the numbers of deaths were small in most individual disease categories, the trends observed were generally consistent with findings in other reports. Thus the relative risk of death in the oral contraceptive users was 4.9 (95% confidence interval 0.7 to 230) for cancer of the cervix, 3.3 (95% confidence interval 0.9 to 17.9) for ischaemic heart disease, and 0.4 (95% confidence interval 0.1 to 1.2) for ovarian cancer. There was a linear trend in the death rates from cervical cancer and ovarian cancer (in opposite directions) with total duration of oral contraceptive use. Death rates from breast cancer (relative risk 0.9; 95% confidence interval 0.5 to 1.4) and suicide and probable suicide (relative risk 1.1; 95% confidence interval 0.3 to 3.6) were much the same in the two contraceptive groups. In 1981 the relative risk of death in oral contraceptive users from circulatory diseases as a group was reported to be 4.2 (95% confidence interval 2.3 to 7.7) in the Royal College of General Practitioners oral contraception study. The corresponding relative risk in this study was only 1.5 (95% confidence interval 0.7 to 3.0). CONCLUSIONS: These findings contain no significant evidence of any overall effect of oral contraceptive use on mortality. None the less, only small numbers of deaths occurred during the study period and a significant adverse (or beneficial) overall effect might emerge in the future. Interestingly, the mortality from circulatory disease associated with oral contraceptive use was substantially less than that found in the Royal College of General Practitioners study. PMID- 2514859 TI - Snoring in children: association with respiratory symptoms and passive smoking. AB - OBJECTIVE: To investigate the relation between snoring and various respiratory symptoms and passive parental smoking. DESIGN: Data were collected by questionnaire. SETTING: Primary schools in Guardiagrele and Francavilla in the Abruzzi region in central Italy. SUBJECTS: 1615 Children aged 6-13 years were categorised according to whether they snored often; occasionally apart from with colds; only with colds; or never. RESULTS: 118 Children were habitual snorers and 137 were reported to snore apart from when they had colds. Never snorers (n = 822) were significantly older than children in other categories. Snoring was significantly associated with rhinitis, production of cough and sputum, previous tonsillectomy, and passive parental smoking. Of the habitual snorers, 82 were exposed to passive smoking. The prevalence of habitual snoring increased significantly with the number of cigarettes smoked by parents (from 5.5% in never smoking [corrected] households to 8.8% in heavy smoking households). CONCLUSIONS: Snoring is quite common in children. The dose-effect relation of smoking and snoring shown in this study adds weight to a further adverse effect of parental smoking on children's health. PMID- 2514860 TI - Consequences and treatment of ovarian failure after total body irradiation for leukaemia. AB - OBJECTIVE: To assess the incidence and severity of physical and psychosexual symptoms in young women due to ovarian failure caused by total body irradiation for leukaemia and the women's response to hormone treatment. DESIGN: Postal questionnaire and interview. SETTING: Leukaemia unit of oncology hospital. PATIENTS: Consecutive series of 46 English speaking women who had developed ovarian failure after total body irradiation and bone marrow transplantation as treatment for leukaemia. RESULTS: Of the 36 responders, 33 reported some symptoms, vaginal dryness being the most common (29). This profoundly affected sexual function. Although 22 women had had sexual intercourse within six months after treatment, 16 were less interested in and 18 experienced difficulties with sexual intercourse. Anxieties about sterility, femininity, and appearance were common and reduced self confidence. Almost half reported that they had changed their social habits and restricted their social activities. Treatment seemed effective in abolishing symptoms in 24 women, but vaginal dryness remained a problem in three. Two women failed to respond and intercourse remained impossible. CONCLUSIONS: Such patients are vulnerable and access to gynaecologists and endocrinologists soon after treatment would be valuable. The optimal treatment regimen and the long term benefits of treatment have yet to be established. PMID- 2514862 TI - Sympathetic tone and relation between sodium intake and blood pressure in the general population. PMID- 2514861 TI - Body weight and mortality in middle aged British men: impact of smoking. AB - OBJECTIVE: To assess the relation between body mass index and mortality in middle aged British men. DESIGN: Men who were recruited for the British Regional Heart Study were followed up for a mean of nine years. SETTING: General practices in 24 British towns. SUBJECTS: 7735 Men aged 40-59 years selected from the age-sex registers of one group practice in each of the 24 towns. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Mortality from cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular causes. RESULTS: 660 Of the men died. There was a U-shaped relation between body mass index and total mortality. Very lean men (less than 20 kg/m2) had by far the highest mortality followed by lean men (20-22 kg/m2) and obese men (greater than or equal to 28 kg/m2). The high mortality in lean and very lean men was due largely to non cardiovascular causes, particularly lung cancer and respiratory disease, which are associated with cigarette smoking. In obese men deaths were more likely to be due to cardiovascular causes. There was a strong inverse association between body weight and cigarette smoking. When the pattern of mortality was examined by age, smoking habits, and pre-existing smoking related disease both very lean men and obese men consistently had an increased mortality. The U-shaped relation was most prominent in men in the oldest age group (55-59). Current smokers had a higher mortality than former smokers at virtually all values of body mass index. An increased mortality in lean men was seen only in current smokers and in men with smoking related disease. Among men who had never smoked, lean men had the lowest total mortality, thereafter mortality increased with increasing body mass index (p less than 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: This study provides strong evidence of the impact of cigarette smoking on body weight and mortality and strongly suggests that the benefits of giving up smoking are far greater than the problems associated with the increase in weight that may occur. PMID- 2514863 TI - Quality of life of elderly people after surgery for benign oesophageal stricture. PMID- 2514864 TI - Antral Helicobacter pylori, hypergastrinaemia, and duodenal ulcers: effect of eradicating the organism. PMID- 2514865 TI - Erythrocyte zinc concentrations in subacute (de Quervain's) thyroiditis. PMID- 2514866 TI - Renal replacement treatment in patients with spina bifida or spinal cord injury. PMID- 2514867 TI - Joseph Rogers and the reform of workhouse medicine. PMID- 2514868 TI - Patients' and general practitioners' satisfaction with information given on discharge from hospital: audit of a new information card. AB - OBJECTIVE: To determine the attitudes of patients discharged from hospital and their general practitioners to a new information card giving details about admission, diagnosis, and treatment and to assess the completeness of the information on the card. DESIGN: Consecutive patients discharged from the care of three consultant physicians over 16 weeks. SETTING: One general medical ward in a large teaching hospital. PATIENTS: A total of 275 consecutive discharges of 258 patients were studied. The mean age of patients was 60 years and mean duration of admission five days. INTERVENTION: At discharge from the ward all study patients received an information card and a copy of the card in the form of an interim discharge letter to be delivered to their general practitioner. Patients and general practitioners were asked to complete a questionnaire giving their views on the legibility, helpfulness, quality, and quantity of the information they received. Copies of all the information cards were scrutinised for completeness. MAIN RESULTS: The results were based on 208 (76%) forms returned by patients and 214 (78%) forms returned by general practitioners. Information was considered very helpful or quite helpful according to 170 (83%) forms from patients and 197 (92%) forms from general practitioners; sufficient information was provided according to 160 and 182 forms. Most patients and nearly all general practitioners thought it was a good idea to provide this information for patients at discharge. According to 125 forms from patients and 188 from general practitioners the information card was very easy or quite easy to read; 155 patients had read it at least twice and 149 were likely to refer to it again. OTHER RESULTS: The written information about the patient, the diagnosis, and what the patient had been told was generally well completed, although the date of discharge was omitted from 42 (15%) cards. Details of drugs prescribed at discharge were generally thorough. CONCLUSIONS: Giving an information card to all patients at discharge was feasible and favoured by most patients and their general practitioners. Having made minor changes in design, we think that we have produced an information card that is a convenient size and will improve communication between patients, their general practitioners, and hospital doctors. We now issue this card routinely to all patients discharged from our ward and hope that it might be widely adopted. PMID- 2514869 TI - ABC of transfusion. National self-sufficiency in blood and blood products. PMID- 2514870 TI - Housing and health: Electromagnetic radiation in homes. PMID- 2514871 TI - NHS indemnity. PMID- 2514872 TI - Experiments on animals. PMID- 2514873 TI - Risks and benefits of antimalarial drugs. PMID- 2514874 TI - The future of Britain's mental hospitals. PMID- 2514875 TI - Community pharmacies and prevention of AIDS among injecting drug users. PMID- 2514876 TI - Radiography in women of childbearing ability. PMID- 2514877 TI - Psychology of limb loss. PMID- 2514878 TI - Gall bladder lithotripsy. PMID- 2514879 TI - Women with Chlamydia trachomatis infection. PMID- 2514880 TI - Consent and people with mental handicap. PMID- 2514881 TI - Allocating resources to doctors in deprived areas. PMID- 2514882 TI - Dipstick haematuria and bladder cancer in men over 60. PMID- 2514883 TI - Prevention of blindness by screening for diabetic retinopathy. PMID- 2514884 TI - Embryo research. PMID- 2514885 TI - Computer control of anticoagulant dose. PMID- 2514886 TI - Breast screening. PMID- 2514887 TI - Cannulas and junior doctors. PMID- 2514888 TI - Chronic shoulder pain in rheumatoid arthritis. PMID- 2514890 TI - AIDS stigma in insurance market. PMID- 2514889 TI - Risks of donor insemination. PMID- 2514891 TI - Statistics today. PMID- 2514892 TI - Saving children's lives by vaccination. PMID- 2514893 TI - On the state of the public health. PMID- 2514894 TI - Pay in the public sector. PMID- 2514895 TI - Encore fin de siecle. PMID- 2514896 TI - Why are the Japanese living longer? PMID- 2514897 TI - Evolution of academic surgery. PMID- 2514898 TI - Yellow fever in west Africa: a retrospective glance. PMID- 2514899 TI - Origins of haemodialysis in the United Kingdom. PMID- 2514900 TI - Urinary retention and the lunisolar cycle: is it a lunatic phenomenon? AB - OBJECTIVE: To determine whether a relation between urinary retention and temporal rhythms exists. DESIGN: Retrospective analysis of patients presenting over three years. SETTING: Urology departments in two hospitals. PATIENTS: 815 Patients presenting as emergency admissions with urinary retention and requiring immediate decompression of the bladder. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Calendar date of each admission to determine circadian, monthly, and seasonal periodicity. RESULTS: No association was found between urinary retention and circadian, monthly, or seasonal rhythms. A significantly higher (p less than 0.001) incidence of urinary retention was observed during the new moon in comparison with other phases of the lunar cycle. CONCLUSIONS: Urinary retention is periodic in nature. This should be considered when the workload of a specialist urological department is organised. PMID- 2514901 TI - An off beat whale hunt. PMID- 2514902 TI - Habitual joint cracking and radiological damage. PMID- 2514903 TI - Laparotomy for 2.50 pounds. PMID- 2514904 TI - Successful treatment of subdural haematoma during anticoagulant treatment. PMID- 2514905 TI - Self injection with mercury. PMID- 2514906 TI - The airport assault syndrome on the increase. PMID- 2514907 TI - Unusual soft tissue tumor. PMID- 2514908 TI - Hepatobiliary candidiasis in chronic lymphatic leukaemia. PMID- 2514909 TI - Self injection treatment for impotence. PMID- 2514910 TI - Stones associated with leg ulcers. PMID- 2514911 TI - Cross species applicability of psychiatric diagnosis and treatment. PMID- 2514912 TI - Ear pain referred by the vagus. PMID- 2514913 TI - Eyelid abscess in an egg nog drinker. PMID- 2514914 TI - "Let's twist again". PMID- 2514915 TI - Pane in the back. PMID- 2514916 TI - Impact of medical school training on doctors' nutritional awareness: an evaluation using the Good Food Guide database. PMID- 2514917 TI - Arctic willy. PMID- 2514918 TI - Cricketing casualties and sporting siblings. PMID- 2514919 TI - Response of heart rate to a roller coaster ride. PMID- 2514920 TI - The art of surgery. PMID- 2514921 TI - Why I paint. PMID- 2514922 TI - Paget's disease in a painting by Quinten Metsys (Massys) PMID- 2514923 TI - Robbie's Fox cards. PMID- 2514924 TI - Medical imagery in the art of Frida Kahlo. PMID- 2514925 TI - The bicycle path to Rome. PMID- 2514926 TI - Swanning in the steps of Hippocrates. PMID- 2514927 TI - "Been to Africa". PMID- 2514928 TI - In quest of Portuguese diseases. PMID- 2514929 TI - Medical mishap in Turkey. PMID- 2514930 TI - Personal and medical memories from Hillsborough. PMID- 2514931 TI - Coming to terms with the death of a loved one. PMID- 2514932 TI - When risk factors have little meaning. PMID- 2514933 TI - Prisoner doctor in a Soviet labour camp 1940-1. PMID- 2514934 TI - Medicine on the move. PMID- 2514935 TI - Looking after a patient with Alzheimer's disease. PMID- 2514936 TI - But what about the diet, doctor? PMID- 2514937 TI - Letter from Moscow: complementary medicine under glasnost. PMID- 2514938 TI - Beware the Ides of October. PMID- 2514939 TI - Going, going, gone. PMID- 2514940 TI - How to encourage a referee: use your word processor carefully. PMID- 2514941 TI - Notes from a country doctor. PMID- 2514942 TI - A guide to GMT (Green Medical Transport). PMID- 2514943 TI - Doctor to The Archers. PMID- 2514944 TI - Cutting prescribing costs: learning from Birmingham in 1913. PMID- 2514945 TI - The mode of inhibition of the Na+-K+ pump activity in mast cells by calcium. AB - 1 The inhibition by calcium of the Na(+)-K+ pump in the plasma membrane of rat peritoneal mast cells was studied in pure populations of the cells by measuring the ouabain-sensitive uptake of the radioactive potassium analogue, 86rubidium (86Rb+). 2 Exposure of the cells to calcium induced a time- and concentration dependent decrease in the ouabain-sensitive K+(86Rb+)-uptake of the cells without influencing the ouabain-resistant uptake. The development of the inhibition required the presence of potassium in the medium in the millimolar range (1.5-8.0 mM), and it did not occur at a concentration of potassium (0.24 mM) that is probably rate limiting for the pump activity. In the presence of 1 mM calcium full inhibition developed almost immediately and was not readily reversed. The inhibition was not significantly reduced by 15 min incubation with 1.2 mM EGTA. 3 The inhibitory action of calcium did not develop when the mast cells were incubated in a potassium-free medium, which is known to block Na(+)-K+ pump activity and allow accumulation of sodium inside the cells. Likewise, increasing the sodium permeability of the plasma membrane by monensin abolished the inhibition of the pump activity. In both cases, incubation of the cells with 4.7 mM potassium and tracer amounts of 86Rb+ resulted in a very large uptake of K+ (86Rb+) into the cells (up to 2 nmol per 10(6) cells min-1), indicating a high activity of the Na(+)-K+ pump. 4. These observations support the view that long term incubation of rat peritoneal mast cells in a calcium-free medium increases the permeability of the plasma membrane to sodium, and the consequent increase in the intracellular concentration of sodium causes an increase in the activity of the pump. Addition of calcium to the cell suspension decreases the sodium permeability, and hence the pump activity. This hypothesis is supported by the stimulation of pump activity produced by monensin, which is not inhibited by calcium. The enhancement of pump activity after exposure of calcium-deprived cells to EGTA might be the result of a further increase in the sodium permeability of the plasma membrane. PMID- 2514946 TI - The effect of adrenalectomy on interleukin-1 release in vitro and in vivo. AB - 1 Peritoneal macrophages (M phi) collected from adrenalectomized (ADX) rats released more interleukin-1 (IL-1) activity and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) than macrophages from sham-operated (SHO) rats. 2 The increase in IL-1 activity in the supernatants was confirmed by the increase of the cell-associated 33 kD IL-1 alpha precursor in ADX macrophages stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). 3 After the injection of Complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA) to induce adjuvant arthritis, 60% of the ADX rats died, while no deaths occurred in the SHO group. 4 The in vivo administration of dexamethasone inhibited both IL-1 and PGE2 release by macrophages as well as protecting ADX animals from CFA-induced death. Indomethacin and BW 755C partially protected the animals from this lethal effect. 5 These results suggest that adrenalectomy induces an increased release of IL-1 both in vitro and in vivo, and are consistent with a feedback mechanism between IL-1 and glucocorticoid hormones. PMID- 2514947 TI - Modulation of arterial endothelial permeability: studies on an in vitro model. AB - 1. An in vitro model of the arterial endothelial barrier was established in which transfer of trypan blue-labelled albumin across confluent monolayers of pig aortic endothelial cells grown on polycarbonate membranes was measured. 2. A range of inflammatory mediators, i.e. histamine, bradykinin, platelet activating factor and thrombin, had no effect on the transfer of labelled albumin across aortic endothelial monolayers. 3. Calcium ionophore A23187 and the phorbol ester, phorbol myristate acetate (PMA), each induced concentration-dependent increases in transfer of labelled albumin. These increases were associated with changes in cell shape, consistent with endothelial contraction. Ionophore A23187 caused some detachment of cells. 4. The ability of PMA to increase transfer of labelled albumin probably results from activation of protein kinase C since it was not shared by the inactive analogue, 4 alpha-phorbol 12,13-didecanoate. 5. Neither a combination of superoxide dismutase and catalase nor the cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor, flurbiprofen, affected resting or PMA-induced increases in albumin transfer. Oxygen-derived free radicals and prostaglandins appear not to be involved in the response to PMA. 6. Each of three procedures designed to elevate adenosine 3':5'-cyclic monophosphate (cyclic AMP) levels, i.e. dibutyryl cyclic AMP, forskolin and (+/-)-isoprenaline, reduced the ability of PMA to promote increased transfer of labelled albumin but had no effect on resting transfer. The effect of (+/-)-isoprenaline was abolished by the beta-adrenoceptor blocking agent, propranolol. 7. Elevation of cyclic GMP content by use of 8 bromo cyclic GMP or atriopeptin II had no effect on resting or PMA-induced transfer of labelled albumin. 8. Arterial endothelial barrier function can be compromised by agents that promote endothelial contraction. Agents that increase endothelial cyclic AMP levels, and so reduce entry of high molecular weight substances into the arterial wall, may warrant evaluation as potential anti-atherogenic drugs. PMID- 2514949 TI - Selective anti-platelet aggregation synergism between a prostacyclin-mimetic, RS93427 and the nitrodilators sodium nitroprusside and glyceryl trinitrate. AB - 1. Citrated platelet-rich plasma from human donors was used to examine turbidometrically the platelet aggregation response to collagen (2.5 micrograms ml-1) and ADP (1.6 microgram ml-1). 2. With collagen as an aggregating agent, the limited (35% maximal inhibition) inhibitory effects of glyceryl trinitrate (GTN, 0.78-50 micrograms ml-1) were markedly potentiated by threshold (3.3-10 ng ml-1) concentrations of RS93427, an orally active prostacyclin-mimetic. Almost complete inhibition of aggregation could then be produced. 3. A threshold concentration of RS93427 (3.3 ng ml-1) similarly potentiated the ability of sodium nitroprusside (NaNp, 0.78-10 micrograms ml-1) to inhibit collagen-induced platelet aggregation. There was an 8 fold reduction in the IC25 concentration of NaNp. 4. Threshold concentrations of the nitrodilators were also able to potentiate the anti aggregatory effects of RS93427 (0.03-30 ng ml-1) on collagen-induced platelet aggregation. With threshold concentrations of either GTN (6.3-25 micrograms ml-1) or NaNp (0.3-1.3 microgram ml-1), the mean IC50 concentration of RS93427 was reduced 4 or 6 fold, respectively, while the IC25 concentration was reduced 6 or 10 fold, respectively. 5. No similar synergistic interactions were seen between RS93427 and the nitrodilators when ADP was used as an aggregating agent. 6. In spontaneously hypertensive rats, the dose-response for the hypotensive response to bolus doses of RS93427 was not altered by concomitant steady state infusion of a threshold dose (1 micrograms kg-1 min-1) of GTN. 7. Possible therapeutic implications of these findings are discussed. PMID- 2514948 TI - Glucocorticoids inhibit prostaglandin synthesis not only at the level of phospholipase A2 but also at the level of cyclo-oxygenase/PGE isomerase. AB - 1. Prostanoid synthesis was induced in bone marrow-derived macrophages by addition of exogenous arachidonic acid to the cell cultures. When the cells were preincubated with dexamethasone (10(-7) and 10(-6) M) overnight, prostaglandin synthesis was inhibited by 66.5 +/- 2.8% and 56.7 +/- 2.9% (mean +/- s.d.; n = 3) respectively. 2. Endogenous membrane bound phospholipase A2 was measured with labelled phospholipids used as substrates. The enzyme activity with phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine as substrates was inhibited by 27.0 +/- 8.3% and 23.3 +/- 11.1% (n = 4) respectively, in dexamethasone-treated macrophages compared to control cells. Neither the distribution of radiolabelled arachidonic acid among the different phospholipid species nor the release of arachidonic acid from prelabelled cells were significantly impaired by pretreatment of the macrophages with dexamethasone (1 microM). 3. The enzyme activity of the cyclo-oxygenase/prostaglandin E (PGE) isomerase was measured in cell membranes from control cells and dexamethasone-treated cells. It was inhibited by 40.0 +/- 8.4% (n = 4) in dexamethasone-treated cells as compared to control cells. Thus, glucocorticoids inhibit not only phospholipase A2 in these cells, but predominantly inhibit arachidonic acid metabolism subsequent to its release from phospholipids. PMID- 2514951 TI - Do phorbol esters produce relaxation of tracheal muscle by generation of arachidonic acid from airway epithelium? PMID- 2514950 TI - Characterization of the prostanoid receptor profile of enprostil and isomers in smooth muscle and platelets in vitro. AB - 1. Enprostil is composed, in approximately equal proportions, of 4 allenic isomers which are prostanoids structurally related to prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). The isomers are denoted as RS-86505-007, RS-86812-007 which are in the 'natural' R and S configuration (with respect to PGE2) and RS-86505-008 and RS-86812-008 which are in the 'unnatural' R and S configuration. In the present study we have characterized their activity at prostanoid receptors, in vitro. 2. Enprostil acted as a highly potent (-log EC50 = 8.30 +/- 0.08; mean +/- s.e.mean, n = 6) EP3 receptor agonist in the guinea-pig vas deferens, although no activity was observed at guinea-pig tracheal EP2 receptors at concentrations up to and including 10 microM. Attempts to study the action of enprostil at EP1 receptors were complicated by a general increase in the spontaneous activity of the guinea pig isolated ileum. This response was stereospecific (i.e. observed, with the 'natural' R and S isomers only) and was not mediated through EP1, FP or TP receptors. 3. Enprostil also exhibited a potent agonist effect at FP and TP receptors in the rat colon and guinea-pig aorta (-log EC50 values = 7.34 +/- 0.11 and 6.54 +/- 0.07, mean +/- s.e. mean, n = 4-8 respectively). No activity at concentrations up to and including 10 microM was observed at DP or IP receptors in the guinea-pig platelet mediating inhibition of ADP-induced aggregation. 4. A similar profile was observed with the 'natural' R and S allenic isomers of enprostil (RS-86505- 007 and RS-86812-007, respectively); RS-86505-007 was between 4 and 10 fold more potent than the racemic enprostil. The 'unnatural' allenic R and S isomers of enprostil were much less potent than enprostil, with the latter being virtually inactive. 5. Enprostil and the 'natural' R and S isomers, therefore, were EP3, FP and TP agonists, being most potent at the EP3 receptor. The preferred configurations for these receptors appears to be the R, and to a lesser extent the S, form of the natural allenic isomer. The effect of enprostil at EP1 receptors was not characterized in view of the presence of excitatory EP3 receptors in the guineapig ileum. These data were in accordance with the pharmacological activity of enprostil, including inhibition of gastric acid secretion (possibly EP3) and diaorrhea (possibly TP). PMID- 2514952 TI - Ascorbic acid prevents ozone-induced bronchial hyperreactivity in guinea-pigs. PMID- 2514953 TI - Effects of cromakalim and glibenclamide on isolated strips of bovine tracheal smooth muscle. Smooth Muscle Research Group. PMID- 2514954 TI - Effects of glibenclamide on cromakalim-induced responses in rabbit isolated aorta. PMID- 2514955 TI - Cromakalim, RP49356, pinacidil and minoxidil sulphate in the rat uterus and their antagonism by glibenclamide. Smooth Muscle Research Group. PMID- 2514957 TI - Endogenous mediators of cerebral ischaemia-induced hypermetabolism in the rat. PMID- 2514956 TI - Glibenclamide and procaine, but not apamin, inhibit the relaxant responses to Ro 31-6930 in guinea-pig taenia caeci. PMID- 2514958 TI - Efficacy of lithium prophylaxis in clinical practice. AB - The efficacy of lithium prophylaxis in bipolar affective disorder in clinical practice was investigated. Comparison was made between 41 patients who were prescribed prophylactic lithium after two admissions in two years or three admissions in five years and a group of patients who did not receive lithium. The benefits conferred by the prescription of this drug were modest compared with the results from clinical trials. PMID- 2514959 TI - Small intestine permeability in schizophrenia. AB - Gastrointestinal permeability was assessed by means of absorption of 51Cr labelled EDTA in 24 patients with schizophrenia (12 in relapse and 12 in remission). The results were compared with those for patients with coeliac disease and those for normal controls. Significant differences between the schizophrenic patients and the normal controls were not established. The results for the schizophrenic patients in remission were no different from those for the patients in relapse, and there was no evidence from the study of an effect on gastrointestinal permeability of either anticholinergic or antidepressant medication. It is concluded that schizophrenia is, at least in the majority of cases, unrelated to coeliac disease. PMID- 2514960 TI - Relationships between cerebral indices for 'extra' cortical parts and ecological categories in anthropoids. AB - The relationships between cerebral indices for 'extra' cortical parts associated with advanced functions [Jerison's 'extra' neurons (Nc), Hofman's 'extra' cortical volume (Ve)] and ecology and social structure were examined for a total of 86 species of anthropoids (28 species of New World monkeys, 48 species of Old World monkeys and 10 species of apes). The species were divided into a total of 39 'congeneric groups' of species which share common ecology and social structure (in most cases, congeneric groups are synonymous with genera). Both Nc and Ve were significantly larger for polygynous congeneric groups than for monogynous congeneric groups in the case of New World monkeys. In the case of Old World monkeys, both Nc and Ve were significantly larger for terrestrial congeneric groups than for arboreal congeneric groups. In the case of apes, although complete analyses could not be performed because of the limited size of the sample for which data were available, both Nc and Ve appeared to be larger for polygynous/terrestrial apes than for monogynous/arboreal apes. These results suggest that the expansion of the cerebral cortex in anthropoids may be associated with terrestriality and polygyny. PMID- 2514961 TI - Central projections of the nervus terminalis in four species of amphibians. AB - The central projections of the nervus terminalis were investigated in two anuran and two urodele species by means of horseradish peroxidase injections into one nasal cavity. In anurans, the nervus terminalis projects to the medial septum, to the preoptic nucleus, to the nucleus of the anterior commissure and to the hypothalamus. In addition to these structures, the dorsal thalamus, the infundibulum and the mesencephalic tegmentum are innervated in urodeles. The structure containing the highest density of terminals in the amphibians investigated is the hypothalamus. In one anuran and one urodele species, the contralateral hypothalamus is primarily innervated, whereas in the other two species the majority of fibers remain ipsilateral. A comparison with other vertebrates shows that the terminalis system in urodeles has the greatest diversity of connections. Anurans, in contrast, lack some connections that are present in urodeles and fishes. These findings have implications for a possible relation of the nervus terminalis to an aquatic habitat. PMID- 2514962 TI - Catecholaminergic projections to tuberoinfundibular neurones of the paraventricular nucleus: II. Effects of stimulation of the ventral noradrenergic ascending bundle: evidence for cotransmission. AB - In order to further elucidate the neural mechanisms underlying the control of adrenocortical secretion, responses of paraventricular nucleus (PVN) tuberoinfundibular neurones were examined following stimulation of the ventral noradrenergic ascending bundle (VNAB). Stimulation at low frequencies (0.5/5 Hz) excited the majority (52/64, 81%) of cells but only 15 showed a clear-cut, stimulus-locked, activation with onset latency of 44.5 +/- 10.0 msec and offset at 71.9 +/- 11.3 msec: the remaining 37 excited cells showed overall increases in firing after delivery of 5-10 stimuli. High frequency (50 Hz) trains of stimuli reversed the direction of response to inhibition for 14/52 of the excited cells. Inhibition of (nor)adrenaline synthesis by alpha-methylparatyrosine was without effect upon the firing of cells examined or the distribution and latencies of their responses following low frequency stimulation; high frequency trains reversed the response direction of only 4/35 cells, (p less than 0.05 vs. control rats; chi 2-test). Intracerebroventricular administration of 6-hydroxydopamine, a catecholaminergic neurotoxin, reduced the proportion of cells excited by the stimulation (10/47; p less than 0.005; chi 2-test). Unit responses to painful somatosensory stimuli were recorded from the majority of the cells tested (74%), except following 6-hydroxydopamine treatment, when only 38% were excited (p less than 0.005; chi 2-test). The results demonstrate that the VNAB provides an excitatory input to the PVN and that noradrenaline is probably responsible for this effect but a cotransmitter (neuropeptide Y?) may also be responsible for the observed excitatory responses. Inhibitory responses following high frequency stimulation were probably also mediated by (nor)adrenaline.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514963 TI - Light increases Fos-related protein immunoreactivity in the rat suprachiasmatic nuclei. AB - Fifteen minutes of bright, white light exposure at midsubjective night resulted in a marked increase in both the number and stain density of c-fos protein (Fos) immunoreactive neurons in the suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN). In all cells, peroxidase reaction product was confined to the nucleus. Most Fos-immunoreactive cells were concentrated in the ventrolateral third of the SCN, although a few immunoreactive cells were also observed diffusely distributed along the dorsal border of the nucleus and into the surrounding hypothalamus. Along the rostro caudal extent of the SCN, the greatest density of Fos-immunoreactive cells was found at a level approximately 300-400 microns caudal of the rostral pole of the nucleus. The population of Fos-immunoreactive cells in the SCN lies within the terminal fields of both the retinohypothalamic and geniculohypothalamic tracts. In addition, a few Fos-immunoreactive cells were observed in the ventral lateral geniculate nucleus. The results suggest that retinal illumination induces transsynaptic c-fos expression in a select population of SCN neurons. PMID- 2514964 TI - [Maximization of pleasure, the answer to a conflict of motivations]. AB - An experiment has been set up to explore the hypothesis according to which behaviour is determined by the trend to maximize pleasure. Twelve subjects were placed individually in a situation of conflict where the pleasure of playing a videogame clashed with the increasing discomfort of a cold environment. The time lapse tolerated could be predicted from the algebraic sum of the rating of displeasure aroused by the cold environment and the rating of pleasure aroused by the videogame, obtained in other sessions. This result supports the working hypothesis and allows to conclude that pleasure is the common currency of tradeoffs among various motivations. PMID- 2514965 TI - [Nucleotide mapping and a kinetic model of a heteroplasmic deletion of 4,666 base pairs from mitochondrial DNA in the Kearns-Sayre syndrome]. AB - We report the nucleotidic mapping of a 4,666 base pairs deletion of the human mitochondrial DNA localized at positions 8571 and 13237 in a Kearns-Sayre syndrome patient. The gene fusion between the 15 N terminal amino acid residues of ATP synthetase subunit 6 and the 303 C terminal aminoacids of NADH dehydrogenase yields a potential protein of 35,000 d MW called A6-ND5. Deletion boundaries show a short inverted repeat ATCXTA. The heteroplasmic deletion mechanism is discussed in view of these data. PMID- 2514966 TI - [1'-carbon hydroxylation of deoxyribose as the mechanism of cleavage of poly(dA) by manganese porphyrin combined with potassium monopersulfate]. AB - Polyadenylic acid, poly(dA), was readily cleaved at neutral pH by meso-tetrakis (4-N-methylpyridyl) porphyrinatomangangeseIII pentaacetate after being activated by potassium monopersulfate. Spontaneously free adenine was released, and after heating an unstable sugar degradation product identified as 5-methylene-2 furanone was evidenced, indicating that C'1-H is the main target of the porphyrin high-valent metal-oxo species. PMID- 2514967 TI - [Modification of the relative plasma concentrations of methyl and methylene groups in cancer: a study using proton NMR spectroscopy]. AB - Fossel et al. have recently proposed the proton NMR examination of plasmatic lipoproteins--and more precisely the determination of an index obtained from the averaged linewidth of the CH2 and CH3 resonances--as a possible tool for detection of cancer. Many evaluations conducted on an international basis have demonstrated that initial expectations were not met and that the test lacked sensitivity, specificity, and predictive value to be accepted as a screening and diagnostic tool. In our evaluation we have collected plasma from healthy subjects, from patients with various kinds of cancer at different stages of evolution and therapy, and from patients suffering from a variety of pathologies, including benign tumors. In accordance with Chmurny et al., we observed that the linewidth index (LWI) is precise and reproducible when care is taken in the handling and storage of samples and in the fasting of subjects. After finding no predictive value to the test, we have reanalyzed the spectra and studied the variations of the ratio defined by the methylene signal area over the methyl signal area. This ratio is significantly increased in cancer. Furthermore, it offers a better separation of statistical populations permitting a more precise discrimination between cancer, other pathologies and controls. We have also found that malignant tumors arising from mesenchyma (sarcoma, leukemia, lymphoma) induce less important variations in the CH2/CH3 ratio than adenocarcinoma or glioma, when such differences cannot be documented using the LWI. These observations are particularly interesting since they might bring new information on the metabolic modifications of the LWI and the CH2/CH3 ratio might reflect the embryologic origin of the tumors and raise the issue of the heterogeneity of cancer disease. PMID- 2514968 TI - [Ultrastructural detection of ribosomal RNA by in situ hybridization using a biotinylated probe on ultrathin sections of cultured animal cells]. AB - A genomic probe containing ribosomal sequences and labelled with biotin was used to hybridize rRNA molecules in ultrathin sections of animal cells embedded in Lowicryl K4M. After detection with streptavidin conjugated with 10 nm gold particles, ribosomal target sequences were localized preferentially in the dense fibrillar component of the nucleolus and in the polyribosome structures of the cytoplasm. The method presently described offers the possibility to detect rapidly and precisely ribosomal gene expression at the ultrastructural level, particularly under different physiological and pathological conditions. PMID- 2514969 TI - [Prolactin and specific binding of testosterone in cultured cells of the seminal vesicle of Gobius niger L]. AB - Cultured seminal vesicle cells of Gobius niger L., precultured for about 15 days, are tested for their Testosterone-binding capacity. This whole cell system shows a specific binding of the androgen, reaching saturation in the presence of increasing amounts of ligand and the Scatchard Plot indicates a good affinity (KD = 4.4 x 10(-9) M), involving a number of sites of 5.06 x 10(-15) mole/culture. The possible existence of a second binding-site population with lower affinity and greater number of sites remains to be demonstrated. At 18 degrees C, the time course shows a maximal binding after about 60 min. of incubation, followed by a rapid decline at 90 min. The competition experiments involving estradiol, 11-keto and 11-hydroxytestosterone indicate an effective if not total specificity to these steroids. The cross-reaction percentages at the 50% binding level are respectively 10.9, 8.5, 4.02%. Ovine Prolactin treatment of the cultures for 6 days before the binding experiment significantly improves the specific binding level of testosterone if compared to the controls (p .019, p .005). This result indicates that the Prolactin-Testosterone synergistic data already obtained on the seminal vesicles of Siluridae and Gobiidae is explained by a direct effect of the Prolactin on the androgen receptor level in the seminal vesicle cell. PMID- 2514970 TI - [Effects of the stimulation of D1 and D2 dopaminergic receptors on the electrically induced release of gamma-(3H)-aminobutyric acid in the prefrontal cortex of the rat]. AB - The effects of D1 and D2 dopaminergic agonists and antagonists on the electrically-evoked release of gamma-[3H] aminobutyric acid (3H-GABA) have been studied on rat prefrontal cortex slices. The major part of the electrically evoked release of 3H-GABA appeared to be Ca++ dependent since a 62% decrease was observed when calcium was removed from the superfusion medium. Two specific D2 dopaminergic agonists, RU 24926 (10(-7) M) and lisuride (10(-6) M), respectively induced a 32% and a 50% inhibition of the electrically-evoked release of 3H-GABA. The selective D2 dopaminergic antagonists sulpiride (10(-5) M) totally abolished the effect of RU 24926 and partially abolished the effect of lisuride. The selective D1 agonist SKF 38393 (10(-5) M) did not affect 3H-GABA release. These results suggest that in the rat prefrontal cortex in vitro, the dopaminergic modulation of 3H-GABA release is mediated through D2 but not D1 receptors. The activation of D2 dopaminergic receptors induces an inhibition of the electrically evoked release of 3H-GABA. PMID- 2514971 TI - [Cerebellar imitation synkineses]. AB - Imitation synkineses had not been described in cerebellar ataxia and were not known in cerebellar experimental neurophysiology. We describe here imitation synkineses when alternate movements of foot or hand were performed, in 2 cases of pure genetic cerebellar ataxia. The phenomenon was observed in other types of cerebellar ataxia (8 cases of anterior lobe cortical atrophy, 2 cases of surgical injury of the vermis). More imitation synkineses occurred on the right side in right-handed subjects, suggesting that the cerebellum physiologically inhibits a contralateral transfer of the copy of the movement. This inhibition would be particularly effective on the dominant side. PMID- 2514972 TI - Progress against prostatic cancer. PMID- 2514973 TI - Oral and oropharyngeal cancers. PMID- 2514974 TI - Cancer in the socioeconomically disadvantaged. PMID- 2514975 TI - "The person with cancer". PMID- 2514976 TI - Cancer statistics. PMID- 2514977 TI - Reversible dedifferentiation and redifferentiation of a melanized cell line from a goldfish tumor. AB - We reported previously the isolation of a melanized cell line that can undergo reversible dedifferentiation and redifferentiation. A heavily pigmented cell line, designated as P15, originally isolated by fish serum-induced melanization of some GEM 81 cells, cloned and serially passaged in fish serum medium, became noticeably less pigmented after several months in fetal calf serum medium and completely unpigmented after another year in the same medium. Addition of fish serum to the medium of this dedifferentiated cell line, designated P15D, induced pigmentation within a week. This re-induced pigmented cell line, designated as P15DI, became unpigmented when cultured in fetal calf serum medium for one month. We report here that the dedifferentiation of P15 occurs in two stages. One week after withdrawal of fish serum, the specific activity of tyrosinase of the culture dropped by approximately 70% and remained at this reduced level for at least one month. After one year, the specific activity of tyrosinase had dropped to a barely detectable level and the culture became completely unpigmented (P15D). Electron microscopic studies showed that the P15D cells have no melanosomes, probably no large vesicles for melanosome formation, but some dopa positive trans-Golgi network (TGN). Addition of fish serum to the growth medium of P15 cultures led to a steady increase in the specific activity of tyrosinase, detectable after one day. There was also an increase in the amount of dopa positive TGN within one day. Melanosomes first appeared after three days and became numerous after one week. Upon removal of fish serum, these re-induced cells (P15D1) underwent a rapid decrease in the specific activity of tyrosinase, reaching, after eight days, the basal level seen in P15D cells. We also report that a protein designated as p75 (Mr approximately 75,000), previously shown to be associated with melanosomes in two melanized cell types of goldfish origin, is present in all melanized cell lines, including P15 and P15DI but absent in unmelanized cell lines, including P15D. PMID- 2514978 TI - Polychlorinated biphenyls. AB - Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and their contaminants have definite ocular and dermatologic side effects, often directly related to the serum level of these compounds. These are usually the first symptoms and signs to appear. Other side effects are far more variable, and the carcinogenic role of PCBs and their contaminants remains controversial. PMID- 2514979 TI - Effects of an analogue of thyrotrophin-releasing hormone, RX77368, on infarct size and cerebral blood flow in focal cerebral ischaemia in the rat. AB - Effects of a stable analogue of thyrotrophin-releasing hormone, RX77368, on cerebral blood flow and infarct size have been studied in an acute model of cerebral ischaemia in the rat. Two hours after electrocoagulation of the left middle cerebral artery (MCA), the mean area of ischaemia (+/- SEM), determined histochemically, was 11.5 +/- 2.2% of a single hemisphere and blood flow, determined using radiolabelled microspheres, was reduced by 40% in the left forebrain (p less than 0.001 compared with sham-operated animals). Administration of RX77368 (50 micrograms/kg, intracerebroventricularly) within 10 min of arterial occlusion caused a significant (p less than 0.01) reduction in mean lesion size to 3.7 +/- 1.8% and stimulation of blood flow to the left ischaemic forebrain (60% above saline treated). Peripheral administration of RX77368 (1 mg/kg intraperitoneally) also significantly stimulated blood flow to the ischaemic forebrain and caused an apparent decrease in frequency of large infarcted areas of brain tissue, although mean lesion size was not significantly affected. These findings indicate that RX77368 ameliorates tissue damage in acute focal cerebral ischaemia. Such effects may be related to stimulation of cerebral blood flow. PMID- 2514980 TI - Lack of protective effect of oral enprostil, a synthetic prostaglandin E2, on intestinal transport and morphology following abdominal irradiation in the rat. AB - Previous studies have demonstrated that abdominal irradiation alters intestinal uptake of nutrients. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of an orally administered synthetic prostaglandin E2, enprostil, given on three occasions shortly prior to a single exposure to 600 cGy external abdominal irradiation, on intestinal active and passive transport processes and villus morphology measured 7 days later. Animals were sham-irradiated (CONT) or were exposed to a single dose of 600 cGy external abdominal irradiation (RAD); two and one mornings before the day of irradiation or sham irradiation, and 1 h before irradiation or sham irradiation enprostil was administered. One half of CONT and RAD groups were dosed orally with enprostil, 5 micrograms/kg body weight, and the other half of the CONT and RAD groups were dosed with placebo. Seven days later the in vitro uptake of glucose, galactose, long-chain fatty acids, and cholesterol was determined in the four groups (CONT with and without enprostil, and RAD with and without enprostil). In CONT, enprostil was associated with increased jejunal uptake of glucose and ileal uptake of galactose. In RAD given enprostil, there was increased jejunal uptake of galactose but reduced ileal uptake of glucose and galactose. The expected radiation-associated decline in jejunal galactose uptake was prevented with enprostil. In CONT given enprostil, there was increased jejunal uptake of fatty acid (FA) 14:0 and 16:0 but reduced uptake of FA 18:0, 18:1, and 18:2; enprostil had no effect on lipid uptake in the ileum in CONT.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514981 TI - A double-blind, controlled study of high-dose L-deprenyl in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. AB - The conventional dose of deprenyl used in Parkinson's disease is 10 mg/day, having been established by in vitro platelet studies and clinical evaluation. Twelve patients with Parkinson's disease on treatment with L-dopa who showed evidence of wearing-off effects or motor oscillation were studied in a double blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial to compare conventional doses of deprenyl with higher doses (up to 40 mg/day) and placebo. We did not find higher doses of deprenyl to be superior to conventional doses and in 17% of cases treatment had to be withdrawn because of side effects. PMID- 2514982 TI - Relationship between structure and activity of an anti-complementary arabinogalactan from the roots of Angelica acutiloba Kitagawa. AB - An anti-complementary arabinogalactan (AGIIb-1), isolated from the roots of Angelica acutiloba Kitagawa, comprised one neutral (N-I) and two acidic arabinogalactan (A-I and A-II) units and one neutral arabinan unit (N-II). N-I showed the most potent anti-complementary activity. AGIIb-1, A-I, and A-II had similar moderate activities, but N-II had weak activity. The product (AF-AGIIb-1) of digestion of AGIIb-1 with exo-alpha-L-arabinofuranosidase had markedly increased anti-complementary activity, as did that (AF-N-I) of N-I. Degradation of the rhamnogalacturonan core in AGIIb-1 slightly decreased the anti complementary activity, whereas the high-molecular-weight neutral arabinogalactan and galacto-oligosaccharide side-chains in A-I and A-II showed potent activities. When AF-AGIIb-1 was digested with endo-arabinanase, the activity decreased slightly. Partial elimination of the (1--6)-beta-D-galactosyl side-chains from AF N-I by digestion with exo-beta-D-galactosidase did not affect the activity. AGIIb 1 reacted weakly with the beta-D-glucosyl-Yariv antigen, but AF-AGIIb-1 and AF-N 1 had increased reactivity with the antigen. The anti-complementary activity of AGIIb-1 was expressed mainly through the classical pathway, whereas AF-AGIIb-1 and AF-N-I had markedly increased activity through the alterative pathway. PMID- 2514983 TI - Synthesis of a common polysaccharide antigen of Pseudomonas aeruginosa as the 6 aminohexyl glycoside. AB - The synthesis is described of a tritylated 1,2-O-cyanoethylidene derivative (3) of the trisaccharide alpha-D-Rha-(1----2)-alpha-D-Rha-(1----3)-D-Rha. Triphenylmethylium perchlorate-catalysed polycondensation of 3 in the presence of 6-phthalimidohexyl 2,4-di-O-benzoyl-3-O-trityl-alpha-D-rhamnopyranoside followed by deprotection afforded the 6-aminohexyl glycoside of a D-rhamnan corresponding to a common polysaccharide antigen of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. PMID- 2514985 TI - Urinary tract injury in patients with blunt chest trauma: the value of postaortographic abdominal radiographs. AB - Patients who require thoracic aortography for blunt decelerating chest trauma often sustain injury to other organ systems due to the magnitude and mechanism of injury. Hospital records and radiographs of 117 consecutive, injured patients studied with thoracic aortography were evaluated to assess the accuracy, value, and limitations of postaortographic abdominal plain radiography for detection of major genitourinary injury. In summary, major urinary tract injury occurred with a frequency of 6%, enough to justify a rapid, low cost, noninvasive screening procedure. Postaortographic plain films of the abdomen were found to be an accurate (95%) screen for detection of major urinary tract injury. The sensitivity for detection of patients with renal injury was 100%. The ability to correctly predict patients who may be safely observed (no significant renal injury) was 100%. One limitation of this technique was the poor diagnostic quality found in 15% of the abdominal radiographs, most commonly caused by excessive superimposed bowel gas. Postaortographic pelvic radiographs were believed to be valuable for detection, but not exclusion, of bladder rupture. PMID- 2514986 TI - Ureteral stenting in urosepsis: a cautionary note. AB - Double-J internal ureteral stents have become a popular, comfortable method of urinary drainage in patients with ureteral obstruction. We describe a case of sepsis leading to rapid death following insertion of a stent. The indications for stent insertion and the potential complications are presented. Special reference is made to the danger of inadvertently creating a conduit for ascending urosepsis. PMID- 2514984 TI - Clinical cardiac PET using generator-produced Rb-82: a review. AB - Cardiac positron emission tomography (PET) with generator-produced rubidium-82 (Rb-82) provides information not previously available for optimal diagnosis and management of cardiac disease. This new information includes the accurate, noninvasive diagnosis of coronary artery disease in asymptomatic or symptomatic patients, the noninvasive assessment of coronary stenosis severity, myocardial infarct imaging, myocardial viability, collateral function, and cardiomyopathy. Cardiac positron imaging may be carried out economically at the same or less cost as other high-tech diagnostic imaging but provides perfusion and metabolic information quantitatively for routine clinical studies not available by other diagnostic modalities. PMID- 2514987 TI - Transcatheter embolization of an arteriovenous malformation of the scrotum. AB - There are several vascular abnormalities that could affect the scrotum. The commonest is a varicocele, and differentiation between this and other lesions is possible using Doppler ultrasound and pelvic angiography. A patient with a scrotal arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is presented in whom transcatheter embolization was possible. PMID- 2514988 TI - Percapsular and percutaneous embolization of renal transplant pseudoaneurysm and AV fistula: case report. AB - Renal allograft arteriovenous (AV) fistula is a known complication of renal biopsies in patients experiencing renal allograft dysfunction. Treatment may include observation, surgery, or intraarterial embolization. We report a case of postbiopsy renal allograft AV fistula and pseudoaneurysm in which intraarterial embolization was technically impossible. Treatment included percapsular embolization of the pseudoaneurysm using intraoperative ultrasound guidance. The embolization coils served as a guide for subsequent percutaneous embolization of the AV fistula in the angiographic suite. Innovative embolization techniques may be necessary in order to preserve optimal renal function. PMID- 2514989 TI - Self-expanding stainless steel endotracheal stents: an animal study. AB - In a rabbit model, self-expanding self-constructed stainless steel endotracheal stents were used to widen the trachea. The stents were overgrown with tracheal epithelium and, except for granuloma formation, elicited no complications. PMID- 2514990 TI - Low infusion rate digital subtraction angiography to predict regional perfusion in hepatic arterial chemotherapy. AB - Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) with a low injection rate of contrast (0.5 ml/sec) was studied as a means of predicting the regional perfusion of percutaneously placed catheters for hepatic arterial chemotherapy. In 64 hepatic artery catheter placements, conventional injection rate angiography (3-5 ml/sec) and low infusion rate DSA exams were compared to conventional radionuclide perfusion studies performed with Tc-99m-MAA. In 58 of 64 cases (90.6%) the conventional arteriogram correctly predicted the extent of hepatic perfusion, whereas in 63 of 64 cases (98%), the low flow DSA exam correctly predicted hepatic perfusion. The conventional arteriogram correctly predicted the extent of extrahepatic perfusion in 32 cases (50%), with a sensitivity of 100%, but a specificity of only 39.6%. The DSA exam was correct in defining the presence or absence of extrahepatic perfusion in 57 of 64 cases for a sensitivity of 82% and a specificity of 91%. Despite the quantitative difference between the low infusion rate DSA study and the chemotherapy infusion (10 ml/hr), it is a useful tool to assist in the correct positioning of temporary catheters for hepatic arterial chemotherapy. PMID- 2514991 TI - Quantitative digital subtraction arteriography with a calibration catheter. AB - Quantitative intraarterial digital subtraction arteriography (DSA) was performed using a calibration catheter with three distal metallic ring markers. The two outer markers were 50 mm apart, and the third marker was in the middle. Measurements of 54 vessel diameters of the abdominal aorta, renal, lumbar, and iliac arteries were performed in a comparison study with direct film arteriograms in 10 aortofemoral runoff studies. Diameter measurements were made by both the observer on hard copy DSA images and by a computer using modified semiquantitative software. Against measurements on film, which were used as the standard, deviation in measurement on digital images varied from 8 to 13% for arterial diameters less than 5 mm and from 2 to 6% for diameters greater than or equal to 5 mm. Projectional artifacts caused 3% or less error. Knowing these variations in measurement is important in order to determine error tolerances for clinical applications. The calibration catheter serves as a convenient internal marker for DSA. PMID- 2514993 TI - Outpatient transfemoral angiography with a two-hour observation period. AB - A study was undertaken to determine whether reducing needle size would reduce the complication rate of outpatient angiography with 4F catheters. One hundred fifty two patients were randomized. An 18-gauge needle was used in 51, a 20-gauge in 50, and a 21-gauge in 51. Patients were observed for 2 h. No patients deteriorated after discharge. None of the 18-gauge patients developed a hematoma. Four percent of the 20-gauge and 2% of the 21-gauge patients had mild hematomas. This suggests that outpatient angiography using 4F catheters and 2 h of observation is safe. Increased safety with 20 or 21-gauge needles was not confirmed. PMID- 2514992 TI - Acute aortic occlusion as a late complication of coarctation repair. AB - Late morbidity and mortality following surgical correction of coarctation of the aorta in adults are primarily related to associated cardiovascular disease, especially persistent systemic hypertension and its sequelae. complications related to the site of coarctation repair are relatively uncommon in this age group and include residual and recurrent coarctation and aneurysm formation. An unusual case is presented in which dehiscence of the proximal suture line of a Dacron tube graft resulted in a flap-valve effect, pseudoaneurysm formation, and acute functional occlusion of the aorta. The angiographic findings are described and the relevant literature reviewed. PMID- 2514994 TI - The injection technique for repositioning central venous catheters: technical note. AB - Malpositioned central venous catheters must be repositioned in order to avoid damage caused by concentrated or irritating infusates. Floppy catheters may be repositioned rapidly with a brisk injection of fluid. The ease of this technique, with its anticipated low risk of infection, makes it an attractive alternative to manipulation using guidewires. PMID- 2514995 TI - Beta-enolase in blood plasma during open heart surgery. AB - The enolase isoenzyme composed of the beta subunit (alpha beta or beta beta enolase) is distributed predominantly in the heart and skeletal muscles. To see whether it may be a useful indicator of myocardial damage, concentrations of beta enolase (the beta subunit of enolase) were determined in serial blood samples taken from 18 patients who underwent mitral valve replacement, using a highly sensitive enzyme immunoassay method. They were compared with those of creatine kinase MB isoenzyme (CK-MB) in the same samples. The mean arterial beta-enolase concentration was 6.60 (SD 3.84) ng.ml-1 at the beginning of anaesthesia. It increased rapidly after reperfusion and rose to greater than 100 ng.ml-1 at 2 h post-reperfusion. It remained high until 12 h post-reperfusion, and then decreased slowly. The plasma beta-enolase concentrations were significantly higher in coronary sinus samples than in arterial samples in the early phase after reperfusion. Since plasma carbonic anhydrase III, which is known to be localised only in the skeletal muscle, did not increase during the surgery, we suggest that the major portion of the elevated plasma beta-enolase was derived from heart muscle. Plasma concentrations of beta-enolase increased as quickly as those of CK-MB after reperfusion. The CK-MB concentrations had returned to normal at 2 d but the beta-enolase concentrations remained elevated up to 7 d. These results show that the determination of beta-enolase in plasma may be useful for estimating myocardial damage during open heart surgery. PMID- 2514996 TI - The hypertensive response to vasopressor agents stimulates the release of thromboxane A2 in hypercholesterolaemic rabbits. AB - The production of thromboxane A2 (TXA2) and prostacyclin (PGI2) is altered in hypercholesterolaemia. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of an acute rise in arterial pressure produced by pressor agents on the release of TXA2 and PGI2 in hypercholesterolaemic rabbits. Hypercholesterolaemia was induced in rabbits by feeding pellet food containing 1% cholesterol for 3 months. Administration of pressor agents (ergonovine 0.5-2.0 mg.kg-1, noradrenaline 5.0 20.0 micrograms.kg-1 and angiotensin-II 0.5-2.0 micrograms.kg-1) increased arterial pressure dose dependently, accompanied by a pressure dependent increase in the plasma concentrations of both TXB2 and 6-keto-PGF1 alpha (stable metabolites of TXA2 and PGI2) in control rabbits, but only of TXB2 in hypercholesterolaemic rabbits. In control rabbits the maximum increase in TXB2 was 51% with ergonovine, 73% with noradrenaline, and 51% with angiotensin-II; and the maximum increase in 6-keto-PGF1 alpha was 48% with ergonovine, 76% with noradrenaline, and 198% with angiotensin-II. In hypercholesterolaemic rabbits the maximum increase in TXB2 was 130% with ergonovine, 144% with noradrenaline, and 128% with angiotensin-II. The pressor induced increase in TXB2 was suppressed when the increase in arterial pressure was counteracted by the concomitant administration of vasodilators (glyceryl trinitrate 40 micrograms.kg-1.min-1 and verapamil 20 micrograms.kg-1.min-1) in both control and hypercholesterolaemic rabbits. Neither TXB2 biosynthesis nor phospholipase A2 activity in platelets was affected by ergonovine, noradrenaline or angiotensin-II in vitro. These results suggested that the acute rise in arterial pressure caused by these pressor agents increased TXA2 release in vivo and that the increase was greater in hypercholesterolaemic than in control rabbits. PMID- 2514997 TI - Inability of chronic chemical sympathectomy to induce coronary collateral growth or development: studies in the rat heart in vivo. AB - The influence of chronic chemical sympathectomy on the extent of coronary collateral flow delivered to a zone of regional ischaemia following an acute coronary artery occlusion was examined in the rat. Male rats were randomly assigned to either 6-hydroxydopamine treated or vehicle treated groups (n = 20 in each group). Drug treated animals were injected with 6-hydroxydopamine intravenously as follows: day 1, 10 mg.kg-1; day 2, 50 mg.kg-1; days 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 28, 35 and 42, 100 mg.kg-1. Control animals were injected in a similar manner with vehicle solution. On day 43, animals were anaesthetised, and their hearts were excised and perfused in the Langendorff mode at a perfusion pressure of 10 kPa. After 5 min the left main coronary artery was ligated and after a further 5 min, 153Gd labelled microspheres (10 microCi, 15 microns diameter) were infused via a side arm on the aortic cannula. This was followed within 3 min by the infusion of 3H-desmethylimipramine (5 microCi) via the same route. Disulphine blue dye was injected via the side arm within 1 min of the desmethylimipramine injection so as to delineate the perfused from the ischaemic region. The hearts were frozen in liquid nitrogen and freeze dried. The dried hearts were separated into ischaemic and non-ischaemic tissue on the basis of the blue dye coloration. The weighed samples were assessed for gamma and beta activity and the ratio of radioactive counts.g-1 in the ischaemic tissue to that of the non-ischaemic tissue was taken as an index of relative coronary collateral flow.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2514998 TI - Studies on fresh water snails, specific intermediate hosts for schistosomiasis 1- isolation of total lipids from native and irradiated snails. AB - Total lipids were isolated from native and irradiated Biomphalaria alexandrina snails, specific intermediate hosts for Schistosoma mansoni. PMID- 2514999 TI - Caged-Ca2+: a new agent allowing liberation of free Ca2+ in biological systems by photolysis. AB - The alkaline earth cation complexes of DM-nitrophen [1-(2-nitro-4,5 dimethoxyphenyl)-N,N,N',N'-tetrakis-[(oxycarbonyl) methyl]- 1,2-ethanediamine)] release the bound cation in the millisecond time range upon irradiation by a short UV-light pulse. This technique allows to generate cation (eg. Ca2+) concentration jumps or pulses in solution or in cellular systems. The physico chemical properties of DM-nitrophen and its Mg2+, Ca2+ and Ba2+ complexes are investigated by employing spectrophotometric and potentiometric techniques. In case of Ca2+ a stability constant of the complex up to nearly 10(11) M-1 is found. The magnitude of representative Mg2+ and Ca2+ concentration jumps which can be generated under realistic experimental conditions are calculated on the basis of the thermodynamic parameters reported here. PMID- 2515000 TI - Ca2+ transients and Mn2+ entry in human neutrophils induced by thapsigargin. AB - Human neutrophils, preloaded with the fluorescent probe, Fura-2, were exposed to Ca2+-releasing agents. The monitored traces of fluorescence were transformed by computer to cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([ Ca2+]i). Due to quenching of Fura-2, the addition of Mn2+ enabled us to compute the cytosolic concentration of total manganese ([Mn]i). The agents used were the novel Ca2+-mobilizing agent, thapsigargin (Tg), the chemotactic peptide, formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (FMLP), and the divalent cation ionophore, A23187. The agents caused transient rises of [Ca2+]i and monotonous rises of [Mn]i, suggesting influx but no efflux of Mn2+. The rise time of [Ca2+]i and the time constants and magnitude of the apparent Mn2+ influx were strongly dependent on the sequence of addition of the agonist and Ca2+. Contrary to FMLP, Tg needed several minutes to exert its full effect on the rise of [Ca2+]i and on the influx of Mn2+, the latter being dependent on two phases, activation and partial inactivation. Pretreatment with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) inhibited the responses of Tg, FMLP and A23187. For comparison, human red blood cells were tested. Contrary to A23187, Tg did not induce Ca2+ uptake in ATP-depleted red cells but increased the Ca2+ pump flux in intact red cells by 10%. The experimental data and computer simulations of the granulocyte data suggest that time-dependent changes of both passive Ca2+ flux into the cytosol and Ca2+ flux of the plasma membrane pump are involved in the transient [Ca2+]i response. PMID- 2515001 TI - On the dissociation constants of BAPTA-type calcium buffers. AB - We have determined or redetermined the calcium dissociation constants of seven BAPTA-type buffers with KD's in the range from 0.4 microM to about 20 mM in 300 mM KCl. These include four newly synthesized ones: 5-nitro BAPTA; 5,5'-dinitro BAPTA; 5-methyl-5'-nitro BAPTA; and 5-methyl-5'-formyl BAPTA. Moreover, we tabulate dissociation constants or KD's for BAPTA and eleven BAPTA-type buffers, compare most of them with an empirical curve based upon so-called Hammett values, and predict KD's for several still unsynthesized but potentially valuable buffers. PMID- 2515002 TI - [Investigation of an outbreak of HNANB[E] in Shufu County, Xinjiang]. AB - An outbreak of HNANB [E] occurred in shufu county with an incidence rate of 2.97%, a fatality rate of 0.87% and a peak in November 1986. There was no difference in incidence between men and women. In young and middle age group the incidence rate was higher. Epidemiological analysis indicates that contact in daily life was one of the main routes of transmission. PMID- 2515003 TI - Talin dynamics in living microinjected nonmuscle cells. AB - To investigate the role of talin in the anchoring of actin-containing stress fibers to the cell membrane of nonmuscle cells, a fluorescent analog of the adhesion plaque protein talin was developed, characterized, and microinjected into living cells. Purified chicken gizzard talin was covalently labeled with the fluorescent dye lissamine rhodamine B sulfonyl chloride. The fluorescently labeled protein was then chromatographed on Sephadex G-25 and DEAE-cellulose in order to remove free dye and denatured protein. The fluorescent talin was able to bind purified vinculin and was localized in adhesion plaques, membrane ruffles, microspikes, and polygonal networks in acetone-permeabilized nonmuscle cells. In cells that were double-stained with fluorescent talin and an affinity-purified anti-talin antibody, a one-to-one correspondence of adhesion plaque staining was seen. Living epithelial cells (PtK2) were microinjected during interphase with fluorescent talin. Computer-enhanced video microscopy was used to document adhesion plaque dynamics such as 1) changes in plaque shape, 2) alterations in plaque positions, and 3) the appearance, growth, and dissolution of plaques. In cells that were followed during mitosis, the adhesion plaques disappeared during cell rounding and then subsequently reappeared upon spreading of the two daughter cells. Treatment of microinjected cells with DMSO in order to disassemble stress fibers resulted in an altered localization of the fluorescent talin. Upon recovery of the cell from the drug, the talin was visualized in its characteristic submembraneous position. These results are the first to document the role and distribution of talin in dynamic processes occurring in living microinjected nonmuscle cells. PMID- 2515005 TI - Polyprenols and dolichols. PMID- 2515004 TI - Large amplification of a 35-kb DNA fragment carrying two penicillin biosynthetic genes in high penicillin producing strains of Penicillium chrysogenum. AB - The isopenicillin N synthase (pcbC) and acyl-CoA:6-APA acyltransferase (penDE) genes of Penicillium chrysogenum were located in a 19.5-kb DNA fragment that had been previously cloned in phage vector EMBL3. This 19.5-kb DNA fragment was mapped with several endonucleases, and the pcbC and penDE genes were located by hybridization with probes corresponding to internal fragments of each gene. A low penicillin producing strain (P. chrysogenum Wis 54-1255) and two high producing strains (AS-P-78 and P2) showed hybridizing fragments of identical sizes in their chromosomes. Dot-blot hybridization of serial dilutions of the total DNA of the three strains showed that the intensity of all the hybridizing bands was much higher in strains AS-P-78 and P2 than in Wis 54-1255. Hybridization of total DNA digestions with probes corresponding to fragments which mapped upstream or downstream of the pcbC-penDE region revealed that a fragment of at least 35 kb DNA has been amplified 9 to 14 fold in the high penicillin producing strains. The amplified region did not include the previously cloned pyrG gene that encodes OMP decarboxylase, an enzyme involved in pyrimidine biosynthesis. PMID- 2515006 TI - [Upper jejunal atresia: treatment using jejunal resection, duodenal modeling and duodeno-jejunal or ileal anastomosis. Results in 13 newborn infants]. AB - 13 high jejunal atresias, including 6 type IIIb apple peel small bowel deformities, have been treated by a one stage surgical procedure, including proximal jejunal resection, tapering duodenoplasty and end-to-end duodeno-jejunal or duodeno-ileal anastomosis. All 13 infants survived. There were no anastomotic leak or malfunction. 7 jejunal atresias with normal distal small bowel were fed a mean of 9 days post-operatively (range 4 to 12 days). Intra-venous fluids were discontinued at a mean of 18 days post-operatively (range 13 to 24 days). Patients, all premature babies, were discharged on the mean 30th post-operative day (range 24 to 40). 5 jejunal atresias with apple peel deformity were fed with an average post-operative delay of 21 days (range 12 to 24). All intra-venous fluids were discontinued at a mean of 48 days post-operatively (range 35 to 90). Average hospital stay was 78 days (45 to 120). In one case, an ileal diaphragm, unnoticed during the first operation was subsequently resected at age 45 days and an iterative tapering duodenoplasty was performed at the age of 8 months. Recovery was then uncomplicated and the child was discharged on a normal oral feeding at the age of 10 months. Functional obstruction of the intestine at the site of anastomosis often occurs in high jejunal atresias. 70% of mortality resulted from operative complications in atresias with apple peel deformity. Intestinal distension is the cause of anastomotic malfunction. After jejunal resection, the duodenum remains dilated and anastomosis cannot function properly.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515007 TI - Treatment of chronic experimental Trypanosoma cruzi infections in mice with MK 436, a 2-substituted 5-nitroimidazole. AB - The antiprotozoal drug 3-(1-methyl-5-nitroimidazol-2-yl)-3a, 4,5,6,7,7a-hexahydro 1,2-benzisoxazole (MK-436) is highly efficacious for treating mice chronically infected with different strains of Trypanosoma cruzi. The compound was administered by gavage in two daily doses of 250 mg per kg body weight to 130 mice that had been infected for 90 to 400 days with either type II or III strains of T. cruzi. The following parasitological cure tests were carried out: xenodiagnosis, haemoculture, and inoculation of blood into newborn mice. Indirect immunofluorescence tests and histopathological studies were also performed. The results indicate that the drug is highly efficacious against chronic infection caused by both type II (cure rate, 90%) and type III strains (cure rate, 95.7%). Histopathological examinations showed complete clearance of the cardiac and muscular lesions in 36% of the mice infected with type II strains and a decrease in the intensity and extension of the lesions in mice infected with type III strains. Indirect immunofluorescence tests were persistently positive for all the mice 3-6 months after the treatment. PMID- 2515008 TI - Cerebrospinal fluid: electrophoresis and methods for determining immunoglobulin G compared. AB - We describe the use of a microconcentrator membrane with a 10,000 dalton cutoff for treating cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) specimens before electrophoresis. We also examine immunochemical methods based on radial immunodiffusion, rate nephelometry, and nephelometry at quasi-equilibrium for quantifying IgG in CSF by studying calibrator crossover, imprecision at low IgG levels, and patient correlation. Calibrator crossover studies showed that values for all standard materials agreed well with assigned. At IgG quantities lower than 30.0 mg/L, we found the radial immunodiffusion (RID) method difficult to use; the rate and quasi-equilibrium methods were reliable to 11.2 and 3.0 mg/L, respectively. Above their respective cutoffs, correlation studies revealed that all three methods compared well. We performed IgG quantification and protein electrophoresis on 40 CSF specimens from patients having non-neurologic disease, finding normal reference intervals which generally agreed with those established previously; however, the albumin, beta, and gamma electrophoretic fractions we observed differed from those reported previously. PMID- 2515009 TI - Use of 4-heptylumbelliferyl-beta-D-glucoside to identify Gaucher's disease heterozygotes. AB - Three fluorometric beta-glucosidase assays were compared for their ability to identify Gaucher's disease heterozygotes, using leukocytes as the source of enzyme: the pH 5.5-taurocholate assay of Peters et al.; the conduritol B epoxide dependent variation of that assay; and the newly developed method described herein. While the first two procedures utilize the standard substrate 4 methylumbelliferyl-beta-D-glucopyranoside to estimate beta-glucosidase activity, the new assay uses 4-heptylumbelliferyl-beta-D-glucoside as (C7UGlc) substrate. Use of this substrate enhances the specificity of the method for lysosomal glucocerebrosidase, thereby minimizing the contribution of the nonspecific cytosolic beta-glucosidase to estimates of substrate hydrolysis. Using Student's t test for the three assays examined, the C7UGlc assay procedure was determined to have the lowest p value (p less than 0.001) and highest t value (t = 4.95) for the discrimination between the mean glucocerebrosidase value of control and obligate Gaucher heterozygote samples. The high reliability and simplicity of the C7UGlc assay lends adequate reason to favor this assay for regular clinical diagnosis of Gaucher heterozygotes. PMID- 2515010 TI - Time course of serum amyloid A response in myocardial infarction. AB - Plasma concentrations of serum amyloid A (SAA), high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, non-HDL cholesterol, and apolipoproteins (Apo) A-I and B were measured daily for 6 days in 10 patients following myocardial infarction (MI) and in 10 secular controls admitted to a coronary care unit. SAA concentrations peaked 3 days following MI (mean 47 mg/dl) and correlated with creatine kinase (CK) (r = 0.67, P less than 0.001). Non-HDL cholesterol and Apo B fell 15 and 18%, respectively, reached nadirs 3-4 days after MI and were inversely related to CK concentrations (P less than 0.01 for both). HDL cholesterol levels, in contrast, increased 15% and were significantly higher than baseline by day 3 when SAA concentrations were maximum. HDL cholesterol subsequently fell in parallel with SAA and had returned to baseline by day 6. Apo A-I declined throughout the 6 days of observation and was 13% lower than initial values on day 6 (P less than 0.05). The Apo A-I reduction was inversely related to both CK and SAA concentrations. There were no significant changes in any of the analytes in control subjects. We conclude that Apo A-I and possibly Apo B containing lipoproteins are negative acute phase reactants. HDL cholesterol is transiently elevated after MI despite decreasing Apo A-I levels and this may relate to incorporation of SAA into HDL particles. PMID- 2515011 TI - Enzyme-labelled immunoassay for urinary gonadotropins using penicillinase. PMID- 2515012 TI - Progress and problems in immunoassays for serum pituitary gonadotrophins: evidence from the UK external quality assessment schemes, (EQAS) 1980-1988. AB - Trends in the quality of assays for serum gonadotrophins performed by laboratories in the UK EQAS during the 1980s are reviewed, with particular reference to the effects of the recent introduction of immunometric assays (IMA) as an alternative to radioimmunoassay (RIA). IMA gave results which were on average 17% higher than RIA for FSH, and 33% lower for LH. These bias characteristics were not entirely accounted for by differences in assay standardisation, but appeared to reflect the different isoforms of the hormones detected by the monoclonal antibodies used in the IMA. Between-laboratory agreement remained, consequently, unsatisfactory overall (geometric coefficient of variation, GCV, 20-30%), although good within method groups (GCV 10%). IMA were less vulnerable to non-specific background interference than many RIA, and could avoid interference from HCG. Some IMA were, however, vulnerable to interference from heterophilic antibodies in patients' sera. The differences between RIA and the various IMA in numerical values reported, and in their vulnerability to interferences underline the need for care in interpreting assay results. PMID- 2515013 TI - Peripheral blood lymphocytes of patients with common variable immunodeficiency (CVI) produce reduced levels of interleukin-4, interleukin-2 and interferon gamma, but proliferate normally upon activation by mitogens. AB - Peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) of 11 patients with CVI produced reduced levels of interleukin-4 (IL-4) upon activation by mitogens as compared with those secreted by PBL of healthy donors. The interleukin-2 (IL-2) and interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) production by PBL of a series of 15 patients with CVI was also reduced. Decreased levels of IL-4 or IL-2 and IFN-gamma production were not only observed after activation by phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) at concentrations of 10 and 1 micrograms/ml, but also after activation by concanavalin A (Con A, 10 micrograms/ml). Longitudinal studies indicated that this defective lymphokine production was consistent upon testing periods up to 5 months. No correlation between reduced IL-4, IL-2 or IFN-gamma production was observed. PBL of patients that produced reduced levels of one lymphokine generally secreted normal levels of the other two lymphokines. Despite the reduced synthesis of the T cell growth factors IL-2 and IL-4, the proliferative responses of the PBL of the patients were in the normal range, which is compatible with the finding that IL-2 and IL-4 have synergistic effects on lymphocyte proliferation, particularly when one of these lymphokines is present at suboptimal concentrations. Since IL-2, IL-4 and IFN-gamma can act as B cell growth and differentiation factors, our data suggest that the reduced synthesis of these lymphokines may contribute to the deficient immunoglobulin production in patients with CVI. PMID- 2515014 TI - Studies on the biphasic relaxant curve of glyceryl trinitrate in rat aorta: role of GTN metabolites. AB - 1. The present study has examined the possibility that one or more metabolites of glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) (i.e. glyceryl-1,2- and -1,3-dinitrate and glyceryl-1- and -2-mononitrate) may be responsible for the second phase of the biphasic relaxant curve to GTN in phenylephrine-contracted rings of rat aorta. 2. The IC50 values for the two phases of the GTN curve were 0.1 mumol/L and 12 mumols/L with the initial phase eliciting 60% of the total relaxation response. The curves for glyceryl-1,2- and -1,3-dinitrate were monophasic with IC50 values of 248 mumols/L and 110 mumols/L, respectively. The mononitrate metabolites elicited relaxant effects at concentrations greater than or equal to 1 mmol/L. 3. The induction of tolerance to GTN or pretreatment with oxyhaemoglobin (5 mumol/L) resulted in a monophasic GTN curve with IC50 values of 16 mumol/L and 18 mumol/L respectively suggesting selective abolition of responses to low concentrations of GTN with little effect on responses to high concentrations of GTN. The relaxant effects of the -1,2- and -1,3-dinitrates, like that to GTN, were essentially unaltered by GTN tolerance or oxyhaemoglobin. 4. Thus while the relaxant effects of the dinitrate metabolites possess similar properties to that of the second phase of relaxation to GTN, a role for these metabolites is unlikely since their IC50 values are 9-20-fold greater than that for the second phase of relaxation to GTN. Whether these differences are due to the 8-10-fold lower lipophilicity of the dinitrates as compared with the parent compound requires further study. PMID- 2515015 TI - Effects of autonomic blockade on the hypertensive response of the fetus to hyperosmolality. AB - 1. Infusions of hyperosmotic mannitol to the ewe caused a rise in fetal arterial pressure in 17 chronically catheterized fetal sheep aged 120-140 days. The fetal heart slowed in 13 out of 17 of these fetuses. The rise in pressure occurred before there was any rise in fetal urinary osmolality. 2. In seven fetal sheep combined alpha- and beta-adrenoceptor and muscarinic blockade delayed the onset of the rise in blood pressure and no bradycardia was observed. It is concluded that the hypertension was due in part to increased activity of the sympatho adrenal system, and that any reflex bradycardia that occurred was mediated by the vagus. 3. In three other fetal sheep aged 125-131 days, the cardiovascular responses elicited by infusion of hyperosmotic mannitol to the ewe were not blocked by a specific vasopressin antagonist. Thus vasopressin could not be responsible for either the initial rise in pressure nor the delayed hypertensive response that was not blocked by alpha- and beta-adrenoceptor blockade. 4. Fetal blood volume was maintained even though the changes in plasma osmolality and electrolytes were indicative of a fall in blood volume. Thus changes that threaten maintenance of fetal blood volume seem to induce increased solute and water transport across the placenta or from the extracorporeal fluid compartments. PMID- 2515016 TI - Long-term outcome with gold thiosulphate and tiopronin in 200 rheumatoid patients. AB - Two hundred rheumatoid patients were prospectively studied over a five-year period. One hundred and three received tiopronin (T) and 97 were treated with gold thiosulphate (GTS). At the end of the five-year period, similar percentages of patients dropped out because of lack of efficacy or because of major toxicities. Likewise, the percentages of patients still receiving the original drug in the two drug regimens at the 5th year of follow-up were 27.8% (GTS) vs. 25.2% (T), respectively. PMID- 2515017 TI - Inhibitory effects of gold sodium thiomalate on DNA polymerase alpha. AB - The usefulness of gold compounds in the therapy of rheumatoid arthritis is well established, however, the pharmacological mechanisms of the compounds are still unclear. In this report, effects of gold compounds on DNA synthesis were examined. Gold sodium thiomalate inhibited DNA synthesis in the HeLa "nuclei system" as well as in the enzyme reaction using DNA polymerase alpha. More precisely, gold sodium thiomalate inhibited the activity of DNA polymerase alpha using activated DNA, poly[d(A-T)] or poly[d(G-C)] for the template, but did not inhibit the activity of DNA polymerase I with each template. The compound had also no inhibitory effect on DNA polymerase beta or gamma. On the other hand, auranofin inhibited the incorporation of [3H]thymidine into HeLa DNA but did not inhibit DNA synthesis in the HeLa "nuclei system". The inhibition of DNA polymerase alpha activity by gold sodium thiomalate was competitive with poly(dA).oligo(dT) for template but noncompetitive with dTTP. Thus, gold sodium thiomalate is a potent and specific inhibitor of DNA polymerase alpha and this inhibitory effect could play an important role in the therapeutic and pharmacological effects of gold sodium thiomalate. PMID- 2515018 TI - Anticardiolipin antibodies possess anticoagulant activity which is blocked by a monoclonal antibody against a cross reacting idiotype of antiphospholipid antibodies. AB - Anticardiolipin (aCL) antibodies were isolated from systemic lupus erythematosus serum using cardiolipin liposomes. In a sensitized activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) system, low concentrations of aCL were found to significantly prolong aPTT in a dose-dependent fashion. This effect was abolished by adding phosphatidylserine/phosphatidylcholine liposomes to the aPTT system, and could be significantly reduced by a monoclonal antibody against a cross reacting idiotype of antiphospholipid antibodies (MoAb 5.2) previously incubated with aCL. These results suggest that the anticoagulant properties of aCL are mediated by an interaction with phospholipid components of the coagulation system. The functional block of this activity using monoclonal MoAb 5.2 antibody could be useful for investigating the mechanisms by which aCL is associated with clinical thrombosis. PMID- 2515020 TI - Effect of oral enprostil, a synthetic prostaglandin E2, on intestinal brush border membrane lipid composition following abdominal irradiation in the rat. AB - Previous studies have demonstrated that external abdominal irradiation alters intestinal nutrient transport and brush border membrane (BBM) phospholipid content. This study was undertaken to assess the possible protective effect of oral dosing of enprostil, a synthetic E2 prostaglandin, on the BBM marker enzyme and lipid composition of non-irradiated control (CONT) animals and of rats exposed seven days perviously to a single dose of 600 cGy external abdominal irradiation (RAD). Half the CONT and RAD animals were orally dosed with enprostil 5 mcg/kg body weight, two and one mornings before the day of irradiation, and one hour before 600 cGy; the remaining half were dosed with placebo according to the same schedule. BBM were isolated and purified from the animals seven days post irradiation for analysis of marker enzymes and lipid composition. Radiation was associated with a decline in jejunal and ileal BBM activity of sucrase. Enprostil was associated with a decline in the ratio of alkaline phosphatase/sucrase in jejunal BBM from irradiated rats, despite its preventing a radiation-associated decline in BBM sucrase activity. Radiation was associated with changes in ileal BBM phospholipids, and these alterations were not prevented with enprostil. Furthermore, enprostil given to non-radiated control rats altered BBM composition, such as increased jejunal and ileal lysophosphatidylethanolamine, and lowered ileal BBM sphingomyelin and phosphatidylethanolamine. Thus, enprostil failed to protect the intestine from the effects of abdominal irradiation on BBM phospholipids, but did partially prevent the effect of abdominal irradiation on jejunal sucrase activity. PMID- 2515019 TI - Antimicrobial antibodies in patients with a non-specific arthritis. PMID- 2515021 TI - Doppler studies in red cell isoimmunization. PMID- 2515022 TI - Coexistence of diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis and ankylosing spondylitis. AB - To the best of our knowledge, only two patients with concurrent diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) and ankylosing spondylitis (AS) have been reported so far. Here we present 3 patients in whom clinical and radiological findings indicative of DISH and AS coexisted. Two of these cases exhibited HLA B27. Although the presence of sacroiliitis would appear to exclude DISH, calcification and ossification of the anterior common vertebral ligament (ACVL) confirmed diagnosis of the latter disease. PMID- 2515023 TI - Pitfalls with anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA). AB - A 39-year-old Ugandan student is described presenting with general malaise, fever and a pulmonary infiltrate. Open lung biopsy showing infarction and positive ANCA lead to a diagnosis of Wegener's granulomatosis and a treatment with immunosuppressive drugs was instituted. Five weeks after admission, however, sputum cultures turned out to be positive for Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The importance of ANCA-interpretation and the possibility of false positive results is discussed. PMID- 2515024 TI - Inter-bottle transfer of mycobacteria by the BACTEC 460. AB - As a result of several episodes of inter-bottle transfer of molds and mycobacteria in our BACTEC 460 TB System (Johnston Laboratories, Towson, MD), we designed some experiments to attempt to reproduce the transfer process. We demonstrated that organism transfer could occur with our instrument during routine use without any indication of instrument malfunction. Utilizing a redesigned A1B4 circuit board that extends the time of the needle heating cycle to 85 sec and increases the needle heater maximum temperature, we were not able to effect organism transfer even from bottles with very high growth indices. We also demonstrated that even with the redesigned A1B4 circuit board, the needles were not heated sufficiently to sterilize them after direct insertion into a mycobacterial suspension. Organism transfer also occurred while using a second redesigned A1B4 circuit board which extends the needle heating cycle to 75 sec. Users should be aware that organism transfer can occur with the BACTEC 460 under certain circumstances. Maintenance and testing recommendations from Johnston Laboratories should be scrupulously followed, and we suggest some additional procedures that might further reduce the possibility of organism transfer. PMID- 2515025 TI - Comparative susceptibility of Mycoplasma pneumoniae to erythromycin, ciprofloxacin, and lomefloxacin. AB - Lomefloxacin was found to be comparable to ciprofloxacin in its ability to inhibit the in vitro growth of Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MIC range 2-8 mcg/ml), but it was significantly less active than erythromycin. Although 30 different strains from widely differing geographic areas and isolation time periods were examined, no macrolide-resistant strains were observed. PMID- 2515026 TI - The comparative activity of lomefloxacin (SC-47111, NY-198) and other orally absorbable agents against Haemophilus influenzae and Branhamella catarrhalis. AB - We compared the in vitro activity of lomefloxacin with that of other agents against 336 strains of Haemophilus influenzae and Branhamella catarrhalis isolated from the respiratory tract of a predominantly adult and in-patient population. H. influenzae strains were usually not serotypable. No strains were resistant to lomefloxacin; all strains tested were susceptible to 0.25 micrograms/ml. The lomefloxacin MIC50 and MIC90 was 0.125 micrograms/ml. PMID- 2515028 TI - The effect of intrauterine devices (stainless steel ring, copper-T220 and levonorgestrel) on the DNA content in isolated human endometrial cells. AB - The effect of three different intrauterine devices on the DNA content in human endometrial cells has been studied in 29 women before and after the insertion of an IUD; a stainless steel ring (9 subjects), Copper-T220 (11 subjects) and a medicated IUD releasing levonorgestrel at a rate of 2 micrograms/day (9 subjects). The material was grouped into "bleeders" (having more than 8 days of bleeding and spotting per month) and "non-bleeders" (having less than 8 days of bleeding and spotting per month). The DNA content was assessed on isolated endometrial cells smeared from thin biopsies and the amount of DNA per cell nucleus was measured by means of a Feulgen microspectrophotometric method. No significant difference was found between the "bleeders" and the "non-bleeders" as to the DNA content. Nevertheless, when the total number of subjects were pooled together, a significant increase in the DNA content was found in the post insertion specimens in the groups of women using the SS and the T-Cu IUDs. Furthermore, a significant decrease in the DNA content was also found when the specimens obtained after the insertion of the LNG IUD were compared with those obtained after 24 months' use of the stainless steel ring and the Copper-T220 device (p less than 0.01 and p less than 0.002, respectively). It is concluded that the insertion of an inert IUD or an T-Cu IUD, induces significant alterations in the DNA content of the human endometrium adjacent to the device, whereas the use of the LNG device does not significantly modify the DNA synthesis when used for 3-10 months. No correlation was found between the DNA content per cell and the number of days of bleeding and spotting. PMID- 2515027 TI - Antibacterial activity and beta-lactamase stability of MDL 19,592, an oral cephalosporin. AB - We compared the in vitro activity and beta-lactamase stability of MDL 19,592, an orally absorbed cephalosporin, with that of cephalexin and cefaclor. It inhabited Staphylococcus aureus at less than or equal to 4 micrograms/ml, Streptococcus pyogenes at 0.25 microgram/ml, sero groups B, C and G streptococci at 1 microgram/ml, and Streptococcus pneumoniae at 2 micrograms/ml. It was slightly more active than cefaclor and cephalexin. MDL 19,592 did not significantly inhibit Enterobacteriaceae, enterococci, Listeria monocytogenes, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Acinetobacter spp. strains (MIC greater than or equal to 32 micrograms/ml). MDL 19,592 was not hydrolyzed by the plasmid beta-lactamases TEM 1 and SHV-1 of Klebsiella but was hydrolyzed by the TEM-3, Staphylococcus aureus beta-lactamase, and the chromosomal-mediated Enterobacter cloacae P99 enzymes. PMID- 2515029 TI - Probing studies on multiple dose effects of antide (Nal-Lys) GnRH antagonist in ovariectomized monkeys. AB - This study was designed to extend evaluation of the long-acting effects of a "third generation" Antide (Nal-Lys) GnRH antagonist on gonadotropin secretion in ovariectomized (OVX) monkeys, with special attention to recrudescence of pituitary gonadotropin secretion after multiple dose treatments, as well as pituitary secretory responsiveness to GnRH. The duration of FSH/LH inhibition by Antide was dose-dependent, as well as being much longer than for Nal-Glu GnRHant; however, full recrudescence of gonadotropin secretion, albeit gradual, did occur. The acute LH secretory response to serial iv boluses of GnRH, in the face of GnRHant-induced suppression of gonadotropin secretion, was transiently accelerated and biologically active. Thereafter, the state of FSH/LH inhibition was resumed chronically. Thus, treatment with Antide produced profound long-term inhibition of tonic gonadotropin levels, yet hyper-responsiveness to exogenous GnRH administration was maintained throughout. PMID- 2515030 TI - Platelet aggregation and prostaglandin metabolites in the blood of patients with ischaemic heart disease during antiarrhythmic treatment. AB - The influence of antiarrhythmic drugs (oral lidocaine, palpitine, Etacizine) on blood platelet aggregation and prostaglandin metabolites was studied in 91 patients with ischaemic heart disease. Lidocaine showed a positive, Etacizine a negative, and palpitine no effect on platelet aggregation. There was no uniform effect of lidocaine on prostaglandin metabolites; it increased the prostacycline and decreased the thromboxane levels. Palpitine increased both prostacyclin and thromboxane levels, whereas Etacizine decreased both metabolites, especially prostacyclin. PMID- 2515032 TI - Isolation and characterization of cDNA clones encoding aldose reductase. AB - The action of aldose reductase has been implicated in the etiology of a variety of diabetic complications affecting the visual system. However, very little is known regarding the structure and functional organization of the genes encoding this key enzyme. In the present study, we have isolated and characterized complementary DNA clones encoding bovine lens aldose reductase. Nucleotide sequencing of four independently isolated clones was used to establish a 1154 nucleotide composite cDNA sequence. The cDNA sequence encodes 296 amino acids of the aldose reductase primary structure, and contains an additional 261 nucleotides of apparently untranslated sequence downstream from the coding region. No nucleotide sequence differences were found among the four independently isolated aldose reductase cDNA clones. The aldose reductase amino acid sequence deduced from the cDNA shows high homology to that reported for aldose reductase of the rat lens. Significant similarities are also evident between bovine lens aldose reductase and both human liver aldehyde reductase and frog lens rho-crystallin. PMID- 2515031 TI - Preliminary serological studies comparing immunofluorescence assay with radioimmunoassay. AB - We assayed serum from 12 patients with untreated cicatricial pemphigoid affecting the conjunctiva for circulating autoantibodies directed against the epithelial basement membrane zone. We employed a conventional indirect immunofluorescence assay, with monkey esophagus and human conjunctiva as substrates, and compared the results with those obtained employing a radioimmunoassay measuring antibasement membrane zone antibody binding to COLO-16 and to SCaBER tumor cell lines. The indirect immunofluorescence assay on normal human conjunctival substrate detected circulating antibodies to conjunctival epithelium in 6 of 12 CP patient serum specimens. Monkey esophagus failed to detect antibodies to the epithelial basement membrane zone. In contrast, autoantibodies were detected in all 12 specimens by the radioimmunoassay. Specificity, as demonstrated by appropriate controls and assay of normal human serum, was 100%. These results demonstrate that radioimmunoassay employing COLO-16 or SCaBER cells is an exquisitely sensitive and specific assay for detection of circulating antibasement membrane antibodies in patients with cicatricial pemphigoid affecting the conjunctiva. PMID- 2515033 TI - Identification of epsilon-crystallin from swan lens as lactate dehydrogenase. AB - Characterization of lens crystallins from black swan, a rare aquatic bird belonging to the family Anatidae, was carried out to search for epsilon crystallin with lactate dehydrogenase activity. Biochemical comparison of epsilon crystallins isolated from the swan and duck lenses plus lactate dehydrogenase of chicken heart has also been made in order to establish the structural/functional relatedness of these proteins. Amino acid analyses showed essentially similar overall compositions for these three proteins. Kinetic analysis revealed differences between avian epsilon-crystallins and the authentic heart-type lactate dehydrogenase. The swan lenses similar to duck lenses appeared to contain a thermostable epsilon-crystallin which possesses very high enzymatic activity of lactate dehydrogenase. The characterization of epsilon-crystallins from the available species of aquatic birds may provide some insights into the evolution of this unique crystallin in the Aves and their enzymatic roles inside the lens. PMID- 2515034 TI - Reversal of galactosemic-induced inhibition of PGH synthase activity in cultured lens epithelial cells. AB - Inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis as determined by prostaglandin endoperoxide synthetase (PGH synthase) activity is associated with polyol accumulation in cultured bovine lens epithelial cells (BLECs) incubated six days in minimal essential medium (MEM) containing 40 mM galactose (Gal). In order to better understand the nature of the correlation between hypergalactosemic exposure, polyol accumulation and inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, a series of culture media reversal and sorbinil (an aldose reductase inhibitor) addition studies were carried out. BLECs were incubated in Gal for six days, then changed to galactose-free MEM +/- sorbinil for a three day recovery period. PGH synthase activity reduced to 66% of control after six days of exposure to Gal. The simultaneous administration of sorbinil during a nine day Gal incubation significantly protected the enzymatic activity, while the activity of PGH synthase further declined to 41% of control under the same conditions in the absence of sorbinil. Within 72 hours of media reversal, PGH synthase activity equaled or exceeded control values in BLECs switched to either MEM or MEM + sorbinil. Indeed, an enhanced prostaglandin biosynthetic capacity as demonstrated by radioimmunoassay was exhibited with microsomes prepared from cells switched from Gal into Gal-free MEM +/- sorbinil, corroborating the beneficial effect of media reversal. Furthermore, following 72 hours of reversal, the cellular dulcitol level was 93 nmol/micrograms PO4 for BLECs switched to MEM alone; no detectable level of polyol was observed in BLECs changed to MEM + sorbinil. In contrast, the polyol content in BLECs after six days of exposure to Gal was 185 nmol/micrograms PO4 and increased to 334 nmol/micrograms PO4 after nine days of continuous incubation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515035 TI - The role of platelets in blood-aqueous barrier breakdown induced by anterior chamber paracentesis in the rabbit. AB - Anterior chamber paracentesis of the rabbit eye causes disruption of the blood aqueous barrier, which is characterized by a rapid increase in the albumin and total protein content of the aqueous humor. Prostaglandins appear to be implicated as major mediators in this reaction, since a cyclooxygenase inhibitor, indomethacin, very efficiently prevents protein leakage. When paracentesis was performed in platelet-depleted rabbits (either by transfusion or by treatment with an antiplatelet plasma), the protein content in the aqueous humor did not rise to values observed in normal animals. These data suggest that platelets play some role in the response to paracentesis, a fact in accordance with histological results. In contrast to cyclooxygenase inhibitors, dexamethasone inhibits neither the blood-aqueous barrier breakdown nor prostanoid release from platelets. These data also indirectly indicate the possible role of platelets in triggering the paracentesis reaction in the rabbit. PMID- 2515037 TI - Regional mapping of the FOS oncogene to rat chromosome 6q21----q23. AB - Using a panel of rat x mouse somatic cell hybrids and in situ hybridization, we determined the chromosomal location of the rat FOS gene locus. Southern blot analysis assigned this oncogene to rat chromosome 6. In situ hybridization confirmed this finding and mapped the gene more precisely to 6q21----q2. PMID- 2515036 TI - Tobramycin iontophoresis into corneas infected with drug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa. AB - Iontophoretic application of tobramycin was used to deliver drug to the cornea of rabbit eyes infected with a tobramycin-resistant strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MIC = 31.25 micrograms/ml). Corneas infected with P. aeruginosa 27853/pMG6 were treated 22 hours after infection with tobramycin delivered by either iontophoresis, mock iontophoresis (eye cup without current), or application of fortified topical drops. Corneal iontophoresis of tobramycin at 25 mg/ml caused more than a three log reduction in bacteria; yielding a significantly lower number of bacteria compared to untreated controls and all other treatments (P less than or equal to 0.0001). Corneal iontophoresis of tobramycin at 10 mg/ml showed a one log reduction in the number of bacteria per cornea, yielding a significantly lower number of bacteria compared to untreated controls (P less than or equal to 0.0001), corneas treated with nine topical applications of 1.36% tobramycin drops (P less than or equal to 0.0001), and corneas treated with mock iontophoresis (P less than or equal to 0.02). These results suggest that iontophoresis is a powerful ocular delivery system for tobramycin and may be suitable for use with other chemotherapeutic agents. PMID- 2515039 TI - Monitoring of fetal carbon dioxide tension during human labour. PMID- 2515038 TI - Involvement of immunoglobulin heavy- and light-chain (kappa) gene clusters in a human B-cell translocation, t(2;14). AB - The breakpoints of a translocation, t(2;14)(p11;q32), detected in an Epstein-Barr virus-transformed lymphoid B-cell line were mapped by Southern analysis, field inversion gel electrophoresis, and in situ hybridisation. The translocation involved the immunoglobulin light-chain (kappa) locus on chromosome 2 and the heavy-chain locus on chromosome 14. The breakpoint on chromosome 2 was between VK and CK, most likely within JK. The chromosome 14 break was located within the VH cluster, no more than 220 kb 5' of the productively rearranged JH locus. The translocation probably resulted from an aberrant rearrangement of the kappa light chain genes. PMID- 2515040 TI - Correlation between growth curves and killing curves of Escherichia coli in the presence of fleroxacin and ampicillin. AB - Fleroxacin, a new long-acting quinolone, induces rapid killing and bacterial filamentation as do other quinolones. Ten strains of Escherichia coli were exposed comparatively to fleroxacin and ampicillin in order to determine the effect of sub- and supra-inhibitory concentrations of each of these two compounds on turbidimetric growth curves and viable counts. By comparing the maximal early increase in optical density (OD, PIOD) as colony-forming units per milliliter (CFU/ml) after 2 and 6 h of exposure to antibiotics, we observed a reduced number of CFU/ml in comparison with the control after the 2-hour exposure at 1/4 the minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) and after 6 h at 1/8 MIC, but a high OD value was also seen among the fleroxacin exposed bacteria. For ampicillin, PIOD rates and killing rates were slower and dose dependent. This discrepancy was due to filament formation, which increased the PIOD value to the same extent as the control curve. After exposure to fleroxacin at 1/2 MIC the PIOD decreased significantly and after 2 and 6 h E. coli killing rates of 99 and 99.9%, respectively, were observed. With exposure to 2 and 4 x MIC, both PIOD values and CFU/ml decreased substantially. Combined analysis of continuous turbidimetric monitoring and viable counts showed that subinhibitory concentrations of fleroxacin and beta-lactam had different effects on E. coli. Fleroxacin's rapid killing rate, despite filament formation, contrasted with the result obtained with ampicillin. The minimum antibiotic concentration of fleroxacin against E. coli was around 1/8 MIC. PMID- 2515041 TI - One-shot treatment of uncomplicated gonorrhoea with third-generation cephalosporins with differing serum half-life. Results of a controlled trial with ceftriaxone and cefotaxime. AB - The highest minimum inhibitory concentrations of ceftriaxone and cefotaxime in 89 analysed Neisseria gonorrhoeae isolates amounted to 0.008 and 0.031 micrograms/ml, respectively. In a randomized controlled trial the single intramuscular injection of ceftriaxone 250 mg and cefotaxime 500 mg cured bacteriologically 35 out of 35, and 29 out of 30 patients, respectively, with uncomplicated gonorrhoea. Facing the different phenotypes of the isolates grown before and after therapy in the case of the non-cured patient within the cefotaxime treatment group, reinfection rather than failure has to be presumed. Postgonococcal urethritis occurred about as often in both groups, the percentage amounting to 24.2 and 28.6%, respectively. If side effects were noted at all, they were considered minor: 4 patients belonging to the first and 3 belonging to the second treatment group complained temporarily about pain at the injection site. Due to the data presented here, ceftriaxone and cefotaxime appear equally effective and safe when used in the dose generally preferred, irrespective of differences in in vitro activity and pharmacokinetic behaviour. PMID- 2515042 TI - Cognitive abilities of Kenyan children in relation to nutrition, family characteristics, and education. AB - The purpose of this study was to determine whether nutritional factors, family characteristics, and the duration of schooling were associated with cognitive and attentional capacities in children growing up in rural Kenya. Food intake was measured by direct observation and weighment twice monthly over the course of a year. Families were characterized in terms of socioeconomic status and the literacy of the parents. Children who were better nourished had higher composite scores on a test of verbal comprehension and the Raven's matrices. Better nourished females were more attentive during classroom observations than malnourished female schoolchildren. Family characteristics and duration of school participation were associated with cognitive abilities for both boys and girls. For the children considered as a group, cognitive scores were best predicted by a combination of factors including duration of schooling, food intake, physical stature, and SES. PMID- 2515043 TI - Concerted evolution of alpha satellite DNA: evidence for species specificity and a general lack of sequence conservation among alphoid sequences of higher primates. AB - We investigated relationships among alpha satellite DNA families in the human, gorilla, chimpanzee, and orangutan genomes by filter hybridization with cloned probes which correspond to chromosome-specific alpha satellite DNAs from at least 12 different human chromosomes. These include representatives of both the dimer based and pentamer-based subfamilies, the two major subfamilies of human alpha satellite. In addition, we evaluated several high-copy dimer-based probes isolated from gorilla genomic DNA. Under low stringency conditions, all human probes tested hybridized extensively with gorilla and chimpanzee alpha satellite sequences. However, only pentameric and other non-dimeric human alphoid probes hybridized with orangutan alpha satellite sequences; probes belonging to the dimer subfamily did not cross-hybridize detectably with orangutan DNA. Moreover, under high stringency conditions, each of the human probes hybridized extensively only with human genomic DNA; none of the probes cross-hybridized effectively with other primate DNAs. Dimer-based gorilla alpha satellite probes hybridized with human and chimpanzee, but not orangutan, sequences under low stringency hybridization conditions, yet were specific for gorilla DNA under high stringency conditions. These results indicate that the alpha satellite DNA family has evolved in a concerted manner, such that considerable sequence divergence is now evident among the alphoid sequences of closely related primate species. PMID- 2515044 TI - Telomeric sequences derived from laser-microdissected polytene chromosomes. AB - Telomeric fragments from salivary gland squashes of Drosophila melanogaster Oregon R. were produced by a new microdissection technique, UV laser microbeam dissection. Microdissection, an essential step in microcloning procedures, is usually performed using micromanipulators and microneedles. Recently it has been shown that microdissection can be improved to very high precision if a laser coupled into a microscope is used. A laser microbeam, generated by an excimer pumped dye laser, allows chromosomes to be cut into slices of less than 0.5 micron. Here it is shown, that single copy DNA probes prepared from Drosophila chromosomes by laser microdissection and microcloning relocalize to the chromosomal regions from which they are derived. The combination of laser technique and microcloning provides an advantageous approach for rapid genetic analysis with potential for the study of genetic diseases and genome mapping. PMID- 2515046 TI - Influence of anesthetic induction with halothane and isoflurane on internal carotid blood flow velocity in early infancy. AB - In contrast to adult humans and animals, so far there are no studies in infancy on the effects of halothane and isoflurane on cerebral hemodynamics. We used transfontanellar Doppler ultrasonography to close this gap. In the study we looked at changes of Vmax as a measure of changes in cerebral blood flow. In 10 infants (4.7 +/- 1.0 kg BW) Vmax decreased 5 min after anesthetic induction with halothane 1.5% at 33%, and in a comparable group of 10 infants (5.3 +/- 1.2 kg BW) 5 min after anesthetic induction with an equipotential dose of isoflurane 2.5% at 28%. In 4 infants there was even a retrograde diastolic flow under anesthetic induction. This decrease was so far never seen in adults, in whom halothane increases cerebral blood flow and isoflurane has only little effect. PMID- 2515045 TI - Position-effect variegation and intercalary heterochromatin: a comparative study. AB - The behaviour of IH (intercalary heterochromatin) regions of Drosophila melanogaster polytene chromosomes was compared with that of euchromatin condensed as a result of position-effect variegation. Normally replicating regions, when subject to such an effect, were found to become among the last regions in the genome to replicate. It is shown that the factors which enhance position effect (low temperature, the removal of the Y chromosome, genetic enhancers of position effect) increase the weak point frequency in the IH, i.e. enhance DNA underreplication in these regions. We suggest that the similarity in the properties of IH, CH (centromeric heterochromatin) and the dense blocks induced by position effect is due to strong genetic inactivation and supercondensation caused by specific proteins in early development. The primary DNA structure is not likely to play a key role in this process. PMID- 2515048 TI - Fasting plus prandial insulin supplements improve insulin secretory ability in NIDDM subjects. AB - To examine how insulin secretory ability is modified by strict glycemic control in non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) subjects, basal and/or prandial insulin was supplemented for 4 wk in 24 diabetic subjects who were secondary failures to sulfonylurea treatment. One intermediate-acting insulin injection a day (n = 7) failed to suppress the rise in plasma C-peptide after meals and did not improve plasma C-peptide responses during a posttreatment oral glucose challenge. Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion with a premeal bolus (n = 8) suppressed both fasting and meal-related rises in C-peptide and improved C-peptide response during the posttreatment oral glucose challenge. Daily insulin requirements during the 4 wk of treatment were reduced significantly by 52%. A short-acting insulin injection before each meal (n = 9) without basal supplementation suppressed the prandial rise in C-peptide and was associated with a significant reduction in daily insulin requirements during 4 wk of treatment by 28%. Diabetic subjects whose fasting and prandial hyperglycemia were less than 140 and less than 200 mg/dl, respectively, showed a significantly higher C peptide response during oral glucose challenge after treatment than those whose insulin treatment only normalized (less than 200 mg/dl) prandial but not basal hyperglycemia (greater than 140 mg/dl). These results suggest that a short-term period of meal-related insulin treatment (which normalized prandial glycemia) increases residual beta-cell function in NIDDM subjects who failed long-term sulfonylurea administration. A basal insulin supplement alone was not effective. The effectiveness of a prandial insulin supplement may have been further improved by a combined basal and meal-related treatment program. PMID- 2515047 TI - Development of human liver UDP-glucuronosyltransferases. AB - The development of multiple UDPGT activities towards eight substrates has been studied in fetal term and adult post-mortem (less than 5 h after death) liver samples. Most fetal and term liver activities were less than 14% of adult values, except that towards 5-hydroxytryptamine which was present in fetal and term liver at adult levels. The majority of UDPGT activities develop to adult levels within 10-20 weeks postnatally, and even premature (30 weeks) which survive for up to 10 weeks will develop these enzyme activities. Immunoblot analysis of human liver microsomes and cDNA cloning of human UDPGT shows the existence of the family of isoenzymes in man, and it is important to determine the developmental pattern of individual drug glucuronidating enzymes in liver. Immunoblot analysis of developing liver shows the presence of two major UDPGT polypeptides in fetal liver, whereas more than five are observed in adult liver. The investigation of substrate specificity of individual UDPGTs by expression of cloned genes in COS-7 cells and the use of antibodies will facilitate the identification of enzymes present in perinatal liver. PMID- 2515049 TI - Clinical aspects of diabetic ketoacidosis. PMID- 2515050 TI - Hepatic glucose production in insulin-resistant states. PMID- 2515051 TI - [Afterloading technique for carcinoma of the uterine cervix]. AB - 134 patients with carcinoma of the cervix treated by combination of intracavitary Cs-137 afterloading radiation and 8 Mv external X-ray irradiation from July 1983 to Nov. 1984 are reported. There were 1 Stage I, 78 Stage II, 53 Stage III and 2 Stage IV lesions. Of these patients, 94.8% had squamous cell carcinoma, 4.5% adenocarcinoma and 0.7% adeno-acanthoma. The total dose of intracavitary radiation at point A was 50 Gy +/- 20%. 40-45 Gy external irradiation was delivered to the parametria. The 3-year survival rates were 84.6% in Stage II and 67.9% in Stage III lesions, respectively. 48% of the 25 patients with cauliflower tumors died. Ten of 19 patients who died were due to extrapelvic metastasis. 9% of cases had rectal bleeding and 6% had hematuria after treatment although there was no recto-vaginal fistula within 3 years' follow-up. PMID- 2515053 TI - [Long-wave ultraviolet sunlight spectrum attenuates the mutagenic effect of short wave ultraviolet light on Bacillus subtilis cells]. PMID- 2515052 TI - Patterns of hospitalisation in a paediatric diabetes clinic in Sydney. AB - The hospital notes of all children with diabetes admitted to the Children's Hospital (both newly diagnosed and subsequent admissions) for the period 1985 1987 were examined. The information collected included basic demographic data, number of bed-days per admission, and reasons for admission. The direct cost of a bed-day and an admission for diabetes in this hospital were calculated. The median duration of an admission at diagnosis was 12 days, and of a subsequent admission 7 days. The proportion of total admissions to the Children's Hospital in 1987 which were due to diabetes (post diagnosis) was eight times the prevalence of IDDM in the 0-14-year population. In 1987, 5.5% of the diabetic patients (excluding new cases) aged 0-19 years and registered with this Diabetes Unit were admitted to hospital. Most of these admissions were for poor control, and were thus potentially preventable. The age group most at risk for admission due to ketoacidosis was the 10-14-year group. The cost of a diabetic bed-day was $Aust 295, average cost of an admission at diagnosis $Aust 3660, and of a post diagnosis admission $Aust 2680. Thus, even in this young age group there is considerable morbidity due to diabetes, most of which can probably be prevented. PMID- 2515054 TI - Schistosomiasis caused by Schistosoma mansoni in Baringo District, Kenya: case report. AB - Schistosomiasis caused by Schistosoma mansoni has not been reported in Baringo District of Rift Valley Province. The intermediate host (Biomphalaria species) though has been reported to occur along the shores of the lakes in this region. Three children from Baringo District were diagnosed to have schistosomiasis caused by S. mansoni by finding ova in their stools. They gave no history of visiting an endemic area. There are many dams being built for land reclamation, creating favourable conditions for the spread of the disease, in presence of the intermediate and definitive host. Studies on the current status of the disease and malacology should be undertaken in order to control the spread of the disease at an early stage. PMID- 2515056 TI - Characterization of the defective beta-glucuronidase activity in canine mucopolysaccharidosis type VII. AB - Canine mucopolysaccharidosis type VII results from deficient activity of lysosomal beta-glucuronidase. Residual enzymatic activity (0.2-1.7% of normal) was detected in tissue homogenates from affected dogs. In contrast, serum and urine from affected animals had up to 15% residual activity. To further characterize the nature of the defective enzyme, hepatic beta-glucuronidase was partially purified from normal and MPS VII dogs for determination of their physical and kinetic properties. About 65% of the total beta-glucuronidase in normal canine liver required detergent for solubilization (i.e., membrane associated), whereas only 22% of the residual activity in canine MPS VII liver was membrane-associated. Compared to the normal hepatic enzyme, the Km towards 4 methylumbelliferyl-beta-glucuronide was markedly increased in MPS VII dogs (i.e., 0.48 versus greater than 2.5 mmol/l). In contrast, the thermo-, cryo-, and pH stability properties, as well as the pH optimum (approximately 4.6), were essentially unaffected. In addition, the canine MPS VII hepatic residual activity was unresponsive to sulfhydryl reducing reagents and divalent cations, despite the fact that incubation of normal canine beta-glucuronidase with dithiothreitol and magnesium and/or calcium enhanced the activity more than 15-fold. PMID- 2515055 TI - [Salsolinol, an endogenous molecule. Possible implications in alcoholism, Parkinson's disease and pain]. AB - Salsolinol can be formed either by condensation of dopamine with acetaldehyde, or by condensation of dopamine with pyruvic acid followed by decarboxylation. Salsolinol has a complex pharmacologic profile. Its opium-like activity may be related to alcohol dependency and to the effectiveness of naloxone during acute alcohol intoxication. Because they had noticed that alcoholism and Parkinson's disease rarely coexist, the authors undertook a study to confirm this fact and attempt to explain it by implicating salsolinol. Urinary excretion of salsolinol was found to increase following ingestion of alcohol, as well as in Parkinson patients under L-dopa treatment. The authors also found that urinary salsolinol was very low in untreated patients with Parkinson's disease. Salsolinol was detected in a number of foods and beverages. Separate assays of enantiomeres showed that the S enantiomere predominates in some foods whereas the R enantiomere is more abundant in humans. Lastly, the antinociceptive effects of salsolinol and its enantiomeres were studied in mice and antidepressant effects were evidenced using predictive tests. PMID- 2515057 TI - Isoelectric focusing of membrane proteins: high resolution separation of myelin proteins. AB - A mixture of the nonionic detergent Triton X-100, the zwitterionic detergent 3 [(cholamidopropyl)dimethylammonio]-1-propanesulphonate (CHAPS), 9M urea and carrier ampholytes was found comparable to media containing sodium dodecyl sulfate in the capacity for solubilization of myelin proteins, including the highly hydrophobic proteolipid protein. The solubilized sample was incorporated into the polymerization mixture before moulding an ultrathin gel, with heat convection characteristics allowing a high wattage to be applied, thus allowing fast separation with high resolving power. Since the most basic protein in myelin focuses at a pH greater than 10, fast separation is essential in order to minimize decay of the cathodic end of the pH gradient. PMID- 2515058 TI - Two-dimensional electrophoresis of plasma proteins and high density lipoproteins during inflammation. AB - Plasma protein and lipoprotein fractions of five patients were analyzed on day 1, 5, and 15 after severe head injury by combining three types of two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) to obtain information on lipoprotein and apolipoprotein composition. On analysis under nondenaturing conditions in both dimensions on day 5, the samples show modifications of isoelectric point (pI) and molecular weight (Mr) properties of the high density lipoprotein (HDL) fraction in addition to an increase in inflammatory proteins and a return to a normal pattern on day 15. In the second type of 2-DE the samples were analyzed employing isoelectric focusing without denaturant in the first dimension, followed by sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) in the second dimension in order to study the protein composition of lipoprotein fractions. On day 5, a decrease of the apolipoproteins apo A-I, apo A II, and apo C were noted, with simultaneous appearance of an unidentified protein with Mr 12,000 and pI 6.0. In the third type of 2-DE, employing urea and Nonidet P-40 in the first and SDS in the second dimension, the plasma polypeptide composition was studied. The presence of an unidentified polypeptide could be confirmed on day 5, tending to disappear thereafter. This Mr 12,000 component consists of two major spots at pI 5.7 and 6.0 and four minor ones between pI 6.0 and 8.0. These properties suggest that this protein corresponds to serum amyloid A apolipoprotein. PMID- 2515059 TI - Distribution patterns of HP1, a heterochromatin-associated nonhistone chromosomal protein of Drosophila. AB - We have previously reported the identification of a nonhistone chromosomal protein (nhcp-19; now called HP1) preferentially associated with the heterochromatin of Drosophila melanogaster. A detailed study of the HP1 distribution pattern on polytene chromosomes by immunofluorescent staining, using monoclonal antibody C1A9, has been carried out. The results indicate that this protein is found within the centric beta-heterochromatin, in cytological regions 31, 41 and 80, and throughout polytene chromosome 4. Staining of telomeres is frequently observed, those of chromosome arms 2R and 3R and the X chromosome being the most conspicuous. Analysis of a fourth chromosome insertional translocation T(3;4)f/In(3L)P confirms an autonomous interaction with chromosome 4 material. Similarly, the beta-heterochromatin distal to light on chromosome arm 2L, moved to position 97D2 on chromosome arm 3R in the rearrangement ltx13, is prominently stained using the C1A9 antibody. Staining of intact salivary glands indicates that this rearranged segment of beta-heterochromatin is not associated with the polytene chromocenter, but provides an independent structural reference point. HP1 is not observed in the nuclei of the early syncytial embryo, but becomes concentrated in the nuclei at the syncytial blastoderm stage (ca. nuclear division cycle 10). This suggests that heterochromatin formation occurs at approximately the same stage at which nuclei first become transcriptionally competent. Thus, the C1A9 antibody may serve as a useful marker for both structural and functional studies of the Drosophila nucleus. PMID- 2515060 TI - Serum IgG subclass concentrations in healthy subjects at different age: age normal percentile charts. AB - IgG subclass levels were determined in 448 normal children from 6 months to 18 years of age and in 141 healthy adults by radial immunodiffusion using monoclonal antibodies. Age-normal percentile values were calculated for each year of age up to 18 years for IgG1, IgG2, IgG3 and in adults for all four subclasses. The broad spread of IgG4 values in children did not permit calculation of reference values. PMID- 2515061 TI - Keutel syndrome: a report of four cases. AB - We report four new cases of Keutel syndrome. Clinical manifestation included abnormal cartilage ossification, multiple peripheral pulmonary stenosis (PPS), brachytelephalangism, subnormal IQ, repeated respiratory infections, otitis media and hearing loss. All four children have a typical facial appearance and are of consanguineous parents. Father and the fifth offspring exhibit a normal phenotype; the mother has pulmonary stenosis. This observation confirms Keutel syndrome as a distinct autosomal recessive syndrome. PMID- 2515062 TI - Radiorespirometric patterns of 14C-substrates in rats. I. Differences in kinds of 14C-substrates and their structural positions labelled with 14C. AB - Experiments were conducted by radiorespirometry to elucidate the relation between the respiratory 14CO2 wave pattern derived from intravenously injected 14C substrates and the dispositional partition of these substrates in rats. Two types of 14C-methionine and 4 types of 14C-glucose molecules were used as the 14C substrates. The respiratory 14CO2 wave patterns obtained in experiments using 14C methionine substrates revealed different patterns based on differences in the labelled position and the amount of expired 14C-radioactivity as well as the wave height. The experiments using 14C-glucose substrates reveals that the carbon atoms participate equally in forming the respiratory 14CO2 wave pattern, regardless of their position in the glucose molecule. Moreover, differences in wave height as a result of differences in position of the labelled carbon atom were not observed. Results of 90-minute 14CO2 radioactivity recovery rate substantiated the explanation of the above-described relationship. The experiments also clarified that wave height is determined by rate of partition to the CO2 pathway of intermediate metabolites arising in the process of labelled 14C atom disposition. PMID- 2515063 TI - Plasma concentrations of pituitary and peripheral hormones during ranitidine treatment for two years in men with duodenal ulcer. AB - The effects of treatment for 2 years with the histamine H2-receptor antagonist ranitidine (100 or 200 mg b.d. for 6 weeks followed by 100 or 200 mg daily) on plasma concentrations of pituitary and peripheral hormones in ten men with duodenal ulcer have been investigated. Stimulation tests with TRH 200 micrograms i.v. and LHRH 100 micrograms i.v. were performed before, during (6 and 24 months), and at least 6 months after treatment. Basal and TRH-stimulated prolactin (PRL) secretion was marginally reduced after treatment for 6 months, but not for 24 months. The LH response to LHRH was slightly increased after treatment for 6 months and 24 months and after the end of treatment. The plasma concentrations of TSH, FSH, cortisol, androgenic hormones, and thyroid hormones did not change significantly during treatment. No adverse effects were reported during the observation period. The few, minor changes in pituitary hormone concentrations were all within the reference range. They may be related to ranitidine treatment, but are more likely to be due to age-dependent alterations in hormone secretion. It is concluded that long-term treatment with ranitidine does not cause major changes in circulating hormone concentrations. PMID- 2515064 TI - Effects of naproxen on the in vivo synthesis of thromboxane and prostacyclin in man. AB - The effect of a single oral dose of 500 mg naproxen on the synthesis in vivo of thromboxane A2 and prostacyclin was studied in healthy volunteers. The synthesis of the prostanoids was assessed by measuring the urinary excretion of the metabolites 2,3-dinor-TxB2 and 2,3-dinor-6-keto-PGF1 alpha, respectively, using stable isotope dilution assays based on gas chromatography - mass spectrometry. Naproxen caused significant inhibition of the excretion of both metabolites for about two days. The reduction of the thromboxane metabolite was more pronounced (75% inhibition) than that of the prostacyclin metabolite (about 50% inhibition). The data support the idea that naproxen causes reversible inhibition of cyclooxygenase. PMID- 2515065 TI - Prostanoid involvement in the relaxation of in vitro mesenteric artery by bradykinin and des-Arg9-bradykinin. AB - Bradykinin (BK), des-Arg9-BK, prostaglandin E2, prostacyclin and angiotensin II all produced concentration-related relaxation of rabbit in vitro de endothelialized superior mesenteric arterial ring preparations precontracted with phenylephrine. Responses were reproducible at time 1 h and 4 h after setting up the preparations. The cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor indomethacin (2.8 x 10(-6) M) and the protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide (7.2 x 10(-5) M) introduced at t = 0 h inhibited relaxant responses to BK, des-Arg9-BK and angiotensin II, but not prostaglandin E2 or prostacyclin at t = 1 h and t = 4 h. Cycloheximide and indomethacin applied to the tissues at t = 3 h inhibited relaxant responses to BK, des-Arg9-BK and angiotensin II (but not prostaglandin E2 or prostacyclin) at t = 4 h. It is concluded that BK, des-Arg9-BK and angiotensin II (but not prostaglandin E2 or prostacyclin) induced relaxant responses of the in vitro rabbit mesenteric artery are dependent upon the generation of a relaxant prostanoid from the tissue and that cycloheximide produces its effect in this tissue by a mechanism similar to that seen with indomethacin. PMID- 2515066 TI - Endothelin stimulates the renal production of prostaglandin E2 and I2 in anesthetized dogs. AB - The infusion of endothelin into the renal artery of anesthetized dogs (5 ng/kg per min) decreased the renal blood flow without changing the blood pressure, indicating that endothelin caused renal vasoconstriction. The renal secretion rate of prostaglandin E2 and I2 markedly increased and these increases were abolished by pretreatment with aspirin. Furthermore, the renal vasoconstrictor effect of endothelin was potentiated by aspirin, suggesting a role of prostaglandins in the renal action of endothelin. PMID- 2515067 TI - Chronic exposure to Ro 15-1788: differential effect on flunitrazepam binding to cortex and hippocampus. AB - The time course of changes in specific [3H]flunitrazepam binding following 2 weeks of treatment with the benzodiazepine antagonist Ro 15-1788 (2.7 and 4 mg/kg per day in drinking water) was studied in the rat neocortical and hippocampal synaptosomal membranes. Such a treatment produced regional increases in the density of benzodiazepine sites, which remained for up to 24 and 48 h after drug withdrawal in the hippocampus and cortex, respectively; the dissociation constant (Kd) was unchanged. In addition, a significant reduction in GABA enhanced [3H]flunitrazepam binding to cortical, but not to hippocampal, membranes from Ro 15-1788-treated animals was found 72 h after drug withdrawal. These data show that there is a regional difference in responses of the GABA/benzodiazepine receptor complex following chronic in vivo exposure to Ro 15-1788 and that, beside the increases in the maximal binding (Bmax) of [3H]flunitrazepam the coupling between the GABA and the benzodiazepine recognition sites was also affected. PMID- 2515068 TI - Lipopolysaccharide increases release of a nitric oxide-like factor from endothelial cells. PMID- 2515069 TI - Phosphorylation of G-protein alpha-subunits in intact adipose cells: evidence against a mediating role in insulin-dependent metabolic effects. AB - The phosphorylation of G-protein alpha-subunits was studied in plasma membranes prepared from isolated, intact adipocytes equilibrated with [32P]phosphate and subsequently incubated in the presence or absence of insulin. In iodinated or unlabeled plasma membranes, antiserum generated against a peptide corresponding to a region common to G-protein alpha-subunits immunoprecipitated two major proteins of 45 and 40 kDa, which were identified as Gs and Gi alpha-subunit, respectively, by comparison with [32P]ADP-ribosylated G-proteins. In membranes prepared from cells equilibrated with [32P]phosphate, the antiserum precipitated a 45 kDa phosphoprotein. Pre-immune serum failed to immunoprecipitate the phosphoprotein. Insulin stimulated [32P]phosphate incorporation into the 45 kDa protein approximately 2-fold. Control experiments suggested that the 45 kDa phosphoprotein was not identical with G alpha s, since (1) the peptide used to raise the antiserum failed to inhibit significantly immunoprecipitation of the 45 kDa phosphoprotein with the antiserum, (2) in contrast to the Gs alpha-subunit, the phosphoprotein was readily removed from the immunocomplex by washing with sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), and (3) the subcellular localization of the phosphoprotein differed considerably from that of the Gs alpha-subunit. No phosphate was detected in immunoprecipitates from either basal or insulin-treated cells after the 45 kDa phosphoprotein had been removed. These data argue against a mediating role of phosphorylated G-protein alpha-subunits in the action of insulin. PMID- 2515070 TI - Na+ regulation of formyl peptide receptor-mediated signal transduction in HL 60 cells. Evidence that the cation prevents activation of the G-protein by unoccupied receptors. AB - In neutrophils and several other phagocytes, a pertussis and cholera toxin sensitive guanine nucleotide-binding protein (G-protein) couples the receptors for formyl methionine-containing chemotactic peptides to stimulation of phospholipase C. We used membranes of myeloid-differentiated HL 60 cells to study the role of Na+ in regulating both the interaction of the formyl peptide receptor with the chemotactic agonist, N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (FMLP), and the receptor-mediated activation of the G-protein. Monovalent cations (Na+ greater than Li+ greater than K+ greater than choline+) markedly inhibited the binding of the radiolabeled oligopeptide [3H]FMLP by specifically reducing the number of receptors in the high-affinity state. Half-maximal and maximal inhibition of peptide binding were seen at cation concentrations of approximately 20 and 200 mM, respectively. Inhibition of peptide binding by Na+ was observed in the presence and absence of divalent cations and was strictly additive to inhibition by the poorly hydrolyzable GTP analogue, guanosine-5'-O-(3 thiotriphosphate), or to ADP ribosylation of G-proteins by pertussis toxin. The inhibitory effect of Na+ on peptide binding coincided with a marked reduction of the potency of FMLP to stimulate a high-affinity GTPase. In contrast, the degree of FMLP-stimulated GTPase activity was markedly enhanced in the presence of Na+. This was largely due to the fact that Na+ reduced the agonist-independent basal GTPase activity in the same way but less so than pertussis toxin treatment. The results show that monovalent cations, Na+ in particular, regulate the interaction of the formyl peptide receptor with both the chemotactic agonist and the G protein by acting on a single site, possibly located on the receptor itself. The observation that basal GTPase activity is markedly reduced by both Na+ and pertussis toxin treatment also suggests (a) that G-proteins interact with and are activated by receptors even in the absence of agonists and (b) that Na+ uncouples unoccupied receptors from G-protein interaction and activation. PMID- 2515071 TI - The reaction of proteins with 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid as a possible model for senile nuclear cataract in man. AB - Proteins, including lens proteins, were incubated in the presence of 3 hydroxyanthranilic acid (30 HA) under oxidizing conditions. Samples were monitored for alterations in color, fluorescence, sulfhydryl content, lysine availability, methionine content, tryptophan content and protein size. Incubation of proteins with 30 HA produced rapid brown coloration and a correspondingly rapid decrease in sulfhydryl content. Alpha-, beta- and gamma-crystallins were all found to react with 30 HA. An increase in protein fluorescence (excitation 340/emission 425 nm) accompanied the color development. No significant decrease in the content of tryptophan or any other amino acid was detected by amino acid analysis. The levels of available lysine were not affected significantly by treatment with 30 HA. Oxidation of methionine to methionine sulfoxide and the covalent cross-linking of polypeptides was obtained by subsequent treatment of the tanned proteins with H2O2. The modifications observed are very similar to those found in the senile nuclear cataract lens. PMID- 2515072 TI - Macular corneal dystrophy: the macromolecular structure of the stroma observed using electron microscopy and synchrotron X-ray diffraction. AB - The distribution of sulphated proteoglycans within the stromas of three patients (A,B,C) suffering from macular corneal dystrophy was studied using the specific dye Cuprolinic Blue in a 'critical electrolyte concentration' method. The corneas were examined using transmission electron microscopy and A and C were further studied by low-angle synchroton X-ray diffraction. Sera from all three patients were analyzed for the presence of keratan sulphate using a monoclonal antibody in an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The serum from Patient A contained keratan sulphate, but the chains were thought to be shorter or less sulphate in their sera. Electron microscopy showed many electron-transparent lacunae randomly distributed throughout the specimens. The average collagen fibril diameter was normal but there were differences in packing between the specimens. Specimen A was closely-packed with most collagen fibrils in contact with their neighbours. Specimens B and C showed fewer regions of close packing; in most of the tissue the interfibrillar spacing appeared normal. Staining with Cuprolinic Blue revealed an unusual distribution of proteoglycans in some parts of the interfibrillar matrix, particularly in A, with 'small' proteoglycans running exclusively parallel to the collagen fibrils. Furthermore in A, and to a lesser extent in B and C, some lacunae were filled with clusters of abnormal sulphated proteoglycan filaments (of various sizes) which were chondroitinase ABC susceptible. Clearly defined regions, both within the lacunae and elsewhere, failed to stain with Cuprolinic Blue; this suggests an absence of sulphated proteoglycans within these areas. Equatorial X-ray diffraction of the wet tissues (A and C) gave values for the mean interfibrillar centre-to-centre separation of 43 +/- 2 nm in Specimen A and 52 +/- 3 nm in Specimen C. The differences observed in the serum keratan sulphate levels, the packing of the collagen fibrils and the distribution of chondroitin/dermatan sulphate proteoglycans confirm the heterogeneity that exists within the macular corneal dystrophies. PMID- 2515073 TI - [Macro- and microcirculatory shifts in the brain of cats during hypoxia and hypercapnia]. AB - The cat hemodynamically isolated brain, when transferred from the air artificial ventilation to the respiration with 10% oxygen or 5-10% carbon dioxide mixtures, developed a decrease in vascular resistance and an increase in the venous outflow. The capillary hydrostatic pressure dropped and the intercellular fluid absorption reduced in both cases. The brain capillary filtration coefficient increased in hypoxia and decreased in hypercapnia. The character of emptying of venous cerebral area was passive in hypoxia and active in hypercapnia. The differences in responses of precapillary sphincters, cerebral capillaries and veins were due to involvement of intracerebral noradrenergic system. PMID- 2515074 TI - [The effect of de-endothelialization on the osmotic dilatation of an isolated segment of the rat tail artery]. PMID- 2515075 TI - Isocitrate dehydrogenase from thermophilic and mesophilic bacteria. Isolation and some characteristics. AB - 1. Simple methods incorporating the principle of selective enzyme elution from a triazinyl dye adsorbent with a mixture of NADP+ and isocitrate are described for isolating NADP+-linked isocitrate dehydrogenase in pure state from several mesophilic and thermophilic bacteria. 2. Several characteristics of the isocitrate dehydrogenases have been examined, viz. molecular size, amino acid composition including the content of sulphydryl groups, thermostability and structural homology by the criterion of immunological cross-section. PMID- 2515076 TI - Inhibition of thymidylate synthase by pyridoxal phosphate. AB - 1. Pyridoxal phosphate (PLP) reversibly inhibited thymidylate synthase from Lactobacillus casei with a KI of 0.6-0.9 microM. 2. The inhibition was competitive with dUMP and noncompetitive with 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate which is consistent with an ordered addition of substrates. 3. The spectrum of PLP was altered by the addition of thymidylate synthase. The spectral changes suggest formation of a thiohemiacetal with an enzyme sulfhydryl group rather than Schiff base formation with a lysine side chain. PMID- 2515077 TI - Effect of some essential amino acid deficiency in the medium on the action of insulin on primary cultured hepatocytes of rats. Hepatocytes do not respond to insulin in some essential amino acid-deficient medium. AB - 1. The effects of insulin, glucagon and dexamethasone on the amino acid consumption by primary cultures of rat hepatocytes were studied in a medium containing all essential amino acids or in those deficient in some essential or nonessential amino acids. 2. The cells which were cultured in a medium containing all the essential amino acids responded to insulin by enhancing the consumption of amino acids and augmenting protein synthesis. 3. However, the cells did not respond to insulin significantly when they were cultured in a medium deficient in lysine or some other essential amino acids. 4. The results suggest that some essential amino acid deficiency impairs the transmission of the signal of insulin to the site of the metabolic changes induced by the hormone. PMID- 2515078 TI - Effect of some polypeptide hormones on the lateral mobility in plasma membranes of rat testes, L-cells and liver. Influence of development and ageing. AB - 1. The effect of different doses of six polypeptide hormones on pyrene diffusion in rat testes and liver plasma membranes was tested. Pyrene mobility was reduced in membranes possessing respective receptors. 2. An incubation time of 15 min of testes plasma membranes with 10(-5) M lutropin (LH) reduced pyrene and diphenyl hexatriene mobilities by 10-20%. 3. The addition of 10(-5) M LH to a suspension of intact L-cells from rats at different ages decreased the diffusion of membrane fluorescently labelled lipids and proteins by ca 60%. Diffusion was measured by fluorescence recovery after photobleaching. 4. Observed LH effects were independent of development and ageing. PMID- 2515079 TI - Studies of the inhibition of aldose reductase: evidence for multiple site binding. AB - 1. Comparison of structure-inhibition relationships and kinetic data between the N-[(4-benzoylamino)phenyl]sulfonyl]amino acids (BAPS-amino acids) and phenylsulfonylamino acids (PS-amino acids) suggests that the additional benzoyl moiety present in the BAPS-amino acids enhances inhibition by direct interaction with aldose reductase (EC 1.1.1.21) without altering the mode of interaction with the enzyme. 2. Also the 2-, 3- and 4-nitro regioisomers of BAPS-glycine (NBAPSG) display parallel structure- inhibition relationships with the 2-, 3- and 4 nitrobenzaldehyde substrates and the 2-, 3- and 4-nitroacetophenone competitive inhibitors. 3. Competition studies and multiple inhibition analyses demonstrate that the 4-nitrobenzoyl group of 4-NBAPSG binds at the substrate site of aldose reductase, while the PS-glycine moiety of 4-NBAPSG binds cooperatively at a distinct site. PMID- 2515080 TI - Isolation and characteristics of aspartate aminotransferase from boar spermatozoa. AB - 1. Gel electrophoresis of aspartate aminotransferase released from boar spermatozoa after cold shock showed one band migrating towards anode. 2. Physico chemical and kinetic properties of isolated enzyme were similar to cytoplasmic isoenzyme of AAT from somatic tissues. PMID- 2515081 TI - Comparative studies on microsomal NADPH-cytochrome P-450 reductase using a monoclonal antibody: tissue distribution, specific activity and peptide mapping. AB - 1. In order to elucidate the molecular structure and the distribution of the enzyme in different microsomes, specific antibodies have been developed against rabbit liver NADPH-cytochrome P-450 reductase. 2. The monoclonal antibody (MAb B1) against rabbit liver reductase cross-reacted well with reductases from various animal species and those from various tissues of the rabbit. 3. NADPH cytochrome P-450 reductase from rabbit tissues such as liver, lung, adrenal gland, kidney and polymorphonuclear leukocyte were closely related in structure and antigenic properties, in addition to having similar catalytic properties. 4. No multiple forms of the reductase in the rabbit were observed in liver nor in other tissues. PMID- 2515082 TI - Immunological distinction of ovine follitropin agonist and antagonist. AB - The presence of antennary carbohydrate structure(s) in ovine follitropin is required for full biologic activity. In order to explore the biochemical basis for the conversion of the glycosylated agonist form of the hormone into one that is antagonistic in nature when it is deglycosylated, we have produced antisera in rabbits to these preparations. All antisera produced in rabbits against deglycosylated ovine follitropin (DG-oFSH) (antagonist) contained antibodies that were specific to the deglycosylated hormones with the native hormones showing weak and non-parallel cross-reaction (less than 10%) but with rabbit antibodies to the native hormone the DG hormone, which is an antagonist, was fully reactive. Using oFSH, asialo-FSH (A-FSH), and DG-oFSH we have shown that removal of sugars internal to sialic acid is required to produce these specific antibodies. This is in complete agreement with the observation that extensive deglycosylation of these hormones is necessary to induce changes in biological activity at the cellular level. By affinity chromatography on divinylsulfonyl Sepharose immobilized oFSH, antibodies that recognize both agonist/antagonist could be separated from immunoglobulins that preferentially bound the labeled antagonist. Based on these data, we suggest that chemical deglycosylation may result in changes in antigenic structure of follitropin by generation of new determinants and thus specific antibodies become available for distinguishing the agonistic and antagonistic forms of the hormone. PMID- 2515083 TI - Stimulation of Sertoli cell inhibin secretion by the testicular paracrine factor PModS. AB - The testicular paracrine factor PModS is produced by peritubular myoid cells under androgen control and modulates Sertoli cell function and differentiation. The observation that luteinizing hormone (LH) stimulates inhibin production in vivo, but has no effect on isolated Sertoli cells in vitro, suggested an indirect mode of LH action, potentially mediated by PModS. The effects of the testicular paracrine factor PModS and hormones on inhibin secretion by Sertoli cells were investigated to provide insight into the endocrine control of inhibin expression. An inhibin radioimmunoassay was utilized which showed essentially parallel displacement curves with purified bovine follicular fluid inhibin, Sertoli cell conditioned medium and concentrated Sertoli cell secreted proteins. An immunoblot analysis of Sertoli cell secreted proteins with the inhibin antisera consistently detected a 32 kDa protein which is the expected size of the mature of inhibin (alpha beta) and periodically detected a 57 kDa protein which is speculated to be an incomplete processed form of the inhibin precursor (alpha 43 beta). Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) was found to stimulate inhibin secretion initially between days 2 and 5 of Sertoli cell culture. Insulin and retinol alone had no significant effect on inhibin secretion; however, together they appeared to enhance the ability of FSH to stimulate inhibin secretion. Testosterone had no effect on inhibin production alone or in combination with other regulatory agents. PModS was found to stimulate inhibin secretion approximately 3-fold, but with a delayed time course of stimulation which did not occur until days 5-7 of Sertoli cell culture. Treatment with a combination of PModS and FSH resulted in an apparent maximal stimulation of inhibin secretion. Both forms of PModS, PModS (A) and PModS (B), were found to have equivalent biological activities in their ability to stimulate inhibin production with an apparent half-maximal effective concentration between 10 and 15 ng/ml. The current study provides evidence for the local testicular control of inhibin production and adds to the complexity of the endocrine control of inhibin expression. The cellular interaction is proposed in which LH acts on Leydig cells to stimulate androgen production which in turn acts on peritubular cells to regulate PModS production which subsequently can act on Sertoli cells to control inhibin production. Testicular control of inhibin production provides a potential short feedback loop for the local regulation of androgen production and an additional regulatory element for the pituitary gonadal axis. PMID- 2515084 TI - Follitropin (FSH) stimulation of inhibin biological and immunological activities by seminiferous tubules and Sertoli cell cultures from immature rats. AB - Seminiferous tubules from 20-day-old rats were isolated by mechanical dissection and the conditions to produce optimal inhibin secretion over a 5-day period of culture were established. Inhibin was measured by a specific heterologous radioimmunoassay and by an in vitro bioassay using rat pituitary cells in culture. The tubule production of biologically and immunologically active inhibin was stimulated by ovine follitropin (FSH); however, the ratio of biological to immunological (B:I) activity fell significantly with increasing dose. A similar stimulation of both B and I inhibin activity with a corresponding decrease in B:I ratio with increased FSH dose was also observed using isolated immature Sertoli cells in culture. Fractionation of seminiferous tubule and Sertoli cell culture media by reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) revealed the presence of two peaks (I and II) with inhibin biological and immunological activity both of which increased following FSH stimulation. However, while the B:I ratio for peak I remained unchanged following FSH stimulation, the B:I ratio for peak II significantly fell. The molecular weights of peak I and II immunoactivity, determined following fractionation on preparative polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis were 30 kDa and 27 kDa respectively. The 30 kDa peak, based on its inhibin in vitro biological and immunological activity, molecular weight and retention position on HPLC most likely represent 30-32 kDa inhibin. The 27 kDa material remains to be identified. PMID- 2515085 TI - Calculating inpatient/CMG costs using HS-1 data. PMID- 2515086 TI - Cost-efficient management of nutritional products. PMID- 2515087 TI - Toxicology studies of a chemical mixture of 25 groundwater contaminants. II. Immunosuppression in B6C3F1 mice. AB - Concern over the potential adverse health effects of chemically contaminated groundwater has existed for many years. In general, these studies have focused on retrospective epidemiological studies for cancer risk. In the present studies, immune function was monitored in female B6C3F1 mice exposed to a chemical mixture in drinking water for either 14 or 90 days. The mixture consisted of 25 common groundwater contaminants frequently found near toxic waste dumps, as determined by EPA surveys. None of the animals developed overt signs of toxicity such as body or liver weight changes. Mice exposed to the highest dose of this mixture for 14 or 90 days showed immune function changes which could be related to rapidly proliferating cells, including suppression of hematopoietic stem cells and of antigen-induced antibody-forming cells. Some of these responses, e.g., granulocyte-macrophage colony formation, were also suppressed at lower concentrations of the chemical mixture. There were no effects on T cell function or T and B cell numbers in any of the treatment groups. Altered resistance to challenge with an infectious agent also occurred in mice given the highest concentration, which correlated with the immune function changes. Paired-water studies indicated that the immune effects were related to chemical exposure and not to decreased water intake. These results suggest that long-term exposure to contaminated groundwater may represent a risk to the immune system in humans. PMID- 2515088 TI - Pulmonary mechanical responses to cholinesterase inhibitor. AB - Lung static and dynamic compliances, and lung and upper airway resistances were measured in pentobarbital-anesthetized dogs before and after intravenous administration of 2 LD50 of the organophosphate cholinesterase inhibitor pinacolyl methylphosphonofluoridate (GD), followed by 1 mg of atropine 8 min later. Dynamic compliances and resistances were estimated by a linear regression model and by a Fourier analysis technique, with the two methods giving comparable results. GD caused a maximum increase in lung resistance of about 20 times control values, and about an 80% decrease in lung dynamic compliance. Frequency dependence of lung compliance and resistance was increased by GD administration. Following GD administration, upper airway opening pressure increased, indicating the presence of laryngospasm. Upper airway resistance during the latter portion of the breath, when the airway was open, decreased after GD administration, concurrent with the increase in carinal pressure that occurred as the result of increased lung impedance. These results suggest that the GD-induced decrease in upper airway resistance was due to passive distension of the upper airway. Physiological deadspace decreased by a maximum of about 65% following GD administration. Administration of atropine resulted in a prompt and almost complete reversal of all of the GD-induced effects on pulmonary mechanical properties and ventilation. The results of this study suggest that the major pulmonary mechanical effects of GD in the dog are caused by constriction of smooth muscle at different levels of the respiratory tract. PMID- 2515089 TI - [IgM kappa gastric plasmacytoma]. AB - A case of gastric plasmacytoma in a 50-year old woman was reported. Immunofluorescent and immunoperoxidase studies were performed. Polyclonal antibodies reactive with immunoglobulin chains and a panel of 14 monoclonal antibodies reactive with B and T cells, and epithelial cells were used. These studies showed that the tumor cells produced IgM Kappa molecules whereas no monotypic immunoglobulin could be detected in the serum and urine. On the other hand the tumor cells had the immunologic phenotype of plasma cells. This helps diagnosis: some lymphomas with plasmocytic differentiation could also produce a monotypic immunoglobulin. Treatment using a combination of surgery, radio and polychimiotherapy was effective, leading to complete remission. PMID- 2515091 TI - [The problem of homologous blood in transfusiology and its solution]. AB - In cardiosurgery conducted in this country and abroad the development of homologous blood syndrome was observed. Its frequency comprises up to 2.5%, according to the authors' data. It has been established that the syndrome is the result of isoimmunologic incompatibility by the antigenic systems of blood plasma allogeneic proteins. The authors have proposed the testing of blood compatibility by the agglutination methods according to the erythrocytic antigen systems with the use of the complement-fixation test according to the protein-plasma antigen systems, due to these tests the development of homologous blood syndrome has been completely eliminated from their practice. The development of massive blood transfusion syndrome described by some transfusiologists has been rejected by the authors, it is considered by them as manifestation of insufficient blood compatibility of the test animals as a result of a wrong method of their isoimmunologic selection using the only cross-testing. PMID- 2515090 TI - [Initial experiences with a levonorgestrel-ethinyl estradiol combination for interception]. AB - Several authors have reported on reliable postcoital contraception, using an estrogen/gestagen combination. These studies in more than a hundred women showed, that the unprotected intercourse in less than 50% took place around ovulation. Pregnancy rates from 0.7 to 2.6% were observed. From October 1987 to July 88, 50 women after unprotected intercourse around ovulation were included in our study. From one to 44 hours after intercourse, 0.5 mg levonorgestrel + 0.1 mg ethinylestradiol (Tetragynon) were administered orally. The same dose was repeated 12 hours later. Cervical secretion, LH- and E2 and P-serum levels at the time of the first administration were determined and side effects and bleeding patterns were registered. In one third of the women, we observed slight side effects. The bleeding resulted 5 to 29 days after the first tablet administration. Shortened menstruation cycles were seen more often than prolonged cycles. Bleeding duration was only slightly prolonged. Two pregnancies occurred - both women vomited immediately after the first medication and disregarded the order to visit our department again as quickly as possible. Tetragynon is not appropriate for regular contraception and should only be used in emergency situations. PMID- 2515092 TI - [Conditions for obtaining hemostatic preparations from donor plasma]. PMID- 2515093 TI - [Bone marrow scintigraphy with 111In-citrin in the diagnosis of hemoblastoses]. AB - Bone marrow scintigraphy with 111In-citrin was used to investigate 55 patients with varying hemoblastoses. The high informative value of the method was shown in extended stages of polycythemia vera, lymphogranulomatosis, multiple myeloma and in leukemia. The method enables assessment of the morphofunctional state of the whole solid mass of the hemopoietic tissue. The data of bone marrow scintigraphy with 111In-citrin can be useful in determination of the disease stage, optimum scheme of its treatment, the therapeutic effectiveness control and prognosis of hemoblastoses. PMID- 2515094 TI - [Thrombokinetic study of patients with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura]. AB - The kinetics of 111In-oxine-labeled platelets was studied in 37 patients with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura and in 12 control subjects using gamma chamber. A comparison was made of the parameters of the kinetics, survival and sequestration type of platelets, as well as their recovery and exchange. In less severe processes the splenic type, while in more severe disease--the hepatic type of sequestration prevailed. PMID- 2515095 TI - Purification of a 51 kDa endo-beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase from Staphylococcus aureus. AB - A bacteriolytic enzyme obtained from the culture fluid of Staphylococcus aureus FDA 209P was purified to homogeneity utilizing dye-ligand affinity column chromatography, hydrophobic interaction high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) and hydroxyapatite HPLC. Subsequent characterizations indicated that the purified enzyme acted as endo-beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase. The molecular weight determined by sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS PAGE) was 51,000 and the isoelectric point was higher than 10. The optimum pH for the enzyme activity on whole cells of Micrococcus luteus as a substrate was 8.0. Some heavy metal cations (Cu2+ and Zn2+) inhibited the enzyme activity at a concentration of 0.1 mM and others (Ba2+, Mg2+ and Co2+) showed a stimulating effect at a concentration of 1 mM. PMID- 2515096 TI - Content, distribution and stability of protein-synthesis elongation factor Tu in subcellular fractions of vegetative cells and spores of Streptomyces aureofaciens. AB - The protein synthesis elongation factor Tu (EF-Tu) was identified in dormant spores of Streptomyces aureofaciens and its content and distribution in vegetative cells and dormant spores were determined. Cell-free homogenates from spores were found to contain a EF-Tu cleaving membrane bound protease. The protease cleaved aggregated EF-Tu much less efficiently than non-aggregated factor in cell homogenates. The relative content of EF-Tu and ribosomes in dormant spores was very similar to that found in exponentially growing vegetative cells. PMID- 2515097 TI - Inactivation of the vascular permeability-increasing activity of bradykinin by mycoplasmas. AB - Mycoplasma pneumoniae, M. genitalium, M. fermentans, M. hominis, M. salivarium, M. orale, Ureaplasma urealyticum and Acholeplasma laidlawii inactivated the vascular permeability-increasing activity of bradykinin when the mixture of bradykinin and mycoplasma cells was injected after incubation at 37 degrees C for 1 h. Cell components responsible for inactivation of the activity of bradykinin were found to be arginine-specific aminopeptidase and carboxypeptidase. PMID- 2515098 TI - Production of diphtheria toxin CRM228 in B. subtilis. AB - The gene coding for a nontoxic diphtheria toxin (DT), tox228, was isolated from lysogenic Corynebacterium diphtheriae and cloned into pBR322. A mature form of the tox228 gene, lacking its signal sequence, was expressed in Bacillus subtilis using a B. amyloliquefaciens alpha-amylase secretion vector. To test the possibility of producing partially deleted DT molecules, which could be used for cell-directed toxin conjugates, a truncated form lacking 151 amino acids from the C-terminus of the DT was generated by oligonucleotide mutagenesis. Both the truncated and intact DT were efficiently secreted into the culture medium. During prolonged cultivation, the truncated form was less stable than the intact DT molecule. PMID- 2515099 TI - Bioconversion of glyceryl trinitrate into mononitrates by Geotrichum candidum. AB - Glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) 2 mM was quantitatively converted into its 1 and 2 mononitrate derivatives by Geotrichum candidum, with consumption of the nitrite ions produced. The conversion proceeded at a rate independent of the addition of either organic carbon or organic nitrogen sources. Eight batches of nitrate ester, which were added every 24 hours, were successfully converted as far as during the bioconversion process GTN concentration did not exceed 2 mM. When those limiting conditions were not observed, dramatic toxicity of GTN was noticed. PMID- 2515100 TI - Cell wall constituents of Microcystis sp. PCC 7806. AB - Cell walls of Microcystis sp. PCC 7806 were purified from cell homogenates by sucrose density centrifugation and Triton X-100 extraction. The outer membrane contained carotenoids, two major peptidoglycan-associated proteins (Mr 49,000 and 52,000), and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) as indicated by the presence of 3-hydroxy fatty acids (3-OH-14:0, 3-OH-16:0, 3-OH-18:0), 4-oxo-18:0 fatty acid, and GlcN as lipid A components in addition to rare O-methyl sugars (2-O-methyl-6-deoxyhexoses I and II). The peptidoglycan (A1 gamma-type) was found to be covalently linked to a wall polysaccharide composed of GlcN, ManN, Man, Glc, and phosphate. PMID- 2515101 TI - The expression of a highly expressed Bacillus subtilis gene is not reduced by introduction of multiple codons normally not present in such genes. AB - Four serine or threonine codons were introduced into a highly expressed Bacillus subtilis gene. The introduced codons were ones either common in highly expressed B. subtilis genes, or never used in such genes. Strikingly, the level and rate of expression of the modified genes containing either type of extra codons was identical. This suggests that in B. subtilis codon usage patterns may play little or no role in effecting the level of gene expression. PMID- 2515102 TI - Regulation of delta-(L-alpha-aminoadipyl)-L-cysteinyl-D-valine and isopenicillin N biosynthesis in Penicillium chrysogenum by the alpha-aminoadipate pool size. AB - The effect of changes in the intracellular concentration of alpha-aminoadipate on the formation of alpha-aminoadipyl-cysteinyl-valine (ACV) and isopenicillin N (IPN)--two intermediates of penicillin biosynthesis--by strains of Penicillium chrysogenum has been investigated by measuring the incorporation of radioactivity from (6-14C)-alpha-aminoadipate into cellular 14C-ACV and 14C-IPN. No ACV or IPN were found in any strain during cultivation on glucose, but were clearly detected in all three strains during growth on lactose, displaying increased formation in strains exhibiting increased penicillin productivity and increased intracellular alpha-aminoadipate pools. ACV and IPN formation was affected by subjected P. chrysogenum mycelia to either general amino acid control (by addition of amitrol) or by exogenous addition of 5 mM L-lysine. In all cases, the changes observed paralleled the changes in the intracellular alpha-aminoadipate pool. These results are consistent with the alpha-aminoadipate pool limiting the biosynthesis of ACV and IPN and hence penicillin biosynthesis in the present strains of P. chrysogenum. PMID- 2515103 TI - Preliminary evidence that different domains are involved in cytolytic activity and receptor (cholesterol) binding in listeriolysin O, the Listeria monocytogenes thiol-activated toxin. AB - The inactive truncated 52 Kilodaltons (kDa) Listeriolysin O (LLO) produced by a transposon Tn1545-induced Listeria monocytogenes non-hemolytic/avirulent mutant previously described (Gaillard et al. (1986) Infect. Immun. 52, 50-55), that lacks a 48 aminoacid fragment at the C-terminal end including the single cysteine residue essential for activity (Mengaud et al. (1988) Infect. Immun. 56, 766 772), bound to the SH-cytolysin membrane receptor cholesterol, as did the active 60 kDa toxin. These results indicate that the missing fragment is a functionally important region needed in the 60 kDa LLO to cause membrane-disruption but not to bind to cholesterol, which strongly suggests that in LLO (and presumably in the other SH-cytolysins, in accordance with their structural and functional homologies) different domains are involved in cytolytic activity and cholesterol binding. The cysteine residue contained in the missing fragment, therefore, would not be essential for cholesterol binding, as is currently thought, rather it seems to be essential specifically for cell lysis. PMID- 2515104 TI - Nucleotide sequence of the gene encoding the active-site serine beta-lactamase from Actinomadura R39. AB - The gene encoding the extracellular, active-site serine beta-lactamase of Actinomadura R39, previously cloned into Streptomyces lividans, has the information for the synthesis of a 304 amino acid protein, the amino terminal region of which has the characteristic features of a signal peptide. The Actinomadura R39 beta-lactamase is another member of the class A beta-lactamases. In particular, it shows high homology with the beta-lactamase of Bacillus licheniformis. PMID- 2515105 TI - Immunoelectron microscopy of Bacillus subtilis cells secreting human interferon alpha 1 or staphylokinase. AB - Post-embedding labelling techniques with colloidal gold-IgG or -protein A complexes were used to determine the subcellular location of IFN alpha 1 and staphylokinase secreted from Bacillus subtilis GB500 cells. Both proteins were present in the cytoplasma and the cell envelope pointing to a posttranslational mode of translocation across the cytoplasmic membrane. 5- to 10-fold higher concentrations of gold particles per 0.1 micron 2 were found on the cell envelope and clustering was observed suggesting preferential regions for secretion sites. Several control experiments ensured the specificity of the labelling data. PMID- 2515106 TI - Myo-inositol-1-phosphate synthase in different Streptomyces griseus variants. AB - The activity of myo-inositol-1-phosphate synthase (MIPS, EC 5.5.1.4.) from streptomycin producing and non-producing strains of Streptomyces griseus was measured during the life cycle on different culture media. The activity varied in the different S. griseus variants and depended on the time of cultivation and the composition of the culture medium. Strains characterized by low MIPS levels are also low streptomycin producers. The enzyme is unstable. It loses 70% of its activity in the crude extract after 18 h at 0 degree C. (NH4)2SO4 and DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) in 20% solution are suitable stabilizing agents, the loss of activity being only 10% in 0.5 M (NH4)2SO4 solution during 24 h. With the applied purification procedure the specific activity of the enzyme was increased 23-fold. According to preliminary estimations, its molecular mass (Mr) is about 216 kDa with a pH optimum of 8.3 and Mg2+-dependent enzyme activity. PMID- 2515107 TI - Intragenic recombination in Drosophila: the rosy locus. PMID- 2515109 TI - Coordinately and differentially mutable activities of torpedo, the Drosophila melanogaster homolog of the vertebrate EGF receptor gene. AB - The torpedo (top) locus of Drosophila encodes the fruitfly homolog of the vertebrate epidermal growth factor receptor gene and the neu proto-oncogene. We have isolated 13 top alleles in a screen for mutations failing to complement the female sterility of top, a recessive maternal effect allele that disrupts the establishment of the dorsoventral pattern of the egg shell and embryo. Several alleles recovered in this screen are zygotic lethal mutations; genetic analysis of these alleles has demonstrated that top is allelic to the embryonic lethal locus faint little ball. The 13 mutations recovered in our screens and 19 previously isolated top alleles have been genetically characterized through complementation tests with a series of hypomorphic and amorphic alleles. Nearly every top allele fails to complement the maternal effect sterility of top. Complementation tests show that the gene is required not only for oogenesis and embryogenesis, but also for pupal viability, for the growth of certain imaginal discs and for the patterning of specific ectodermal derivatives of the imaginal discs. Complementation analysis further demonstrates that the top lesions can be divided into general phenotypic categories: alleles affecting all gene activities in a coordinate manner, alleles preferentially affecting embryogenesis, alleles preferentially retaining oogenesis activity and alleles differentially affecting the development of specific imaginal disc derivatives. Correlations observed between the various developmental defects produced by top lesions suggest that the gene possesses several differentially, though not independently, mutable activities. PMID- 2515108 TI - DNA sequence analysis of artificially evolved ebg enzyme and ebg repressor genes. AB - The ebg system has been used as a model to study the artificial selection of new catalytic functions of enzymes and of inducer specificities of repressors. A series of mutant enzymes with altered catalytic specificities were previously characterized biochemically as were the changes in inducer specificities of mutant, but fully functional, repressors. The wild type ebg operon has been sequenced, and the sequence differences of the mutant enzymes and repressors have been determined. We now report that, contrary to our previous understanding, ebg enzyme contains 180-kD alpha-subunits and 20-kD beta-subunits, both of which are required for full activity. Mutations that dramatically affect substrate specificity and catalytic efficiency lie in two distinct regions, both well outside of the active site region. Mutations that affect inducer specificity of the ebg repressor lie within predicted sugar binding domains. Comparisons of the ebg beta-galactosidase and repressor with homologous proteins of the Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae lac operons, and with the galactose operon repressor, suggest that the ebg and lac operons diverged prior to the divergence of E. coli from Klebsiella. One case of a triple substitution as the consequence of a single event is reported, and the implications of that observation for mechanisms of spontaneous mutagenesis are discussed. PMID- 2515111 TI - Laboratory estimates of heritabilities and genetic correlations in nature. AB - A lower bound on heritability in a natural environment can be determined from the regression of offspring raised in the laboratory on parents raised in nature. An estimate of additive genetic variance in the laboratory is also required. The estimated lower bounds on heritabilities can sometimes be used to demonstrate a significant genetic correlation between two traits in nature, if their genetic and phenotypic correlations in nature have the same sign, and if sample sizes are large, and heritabilities and phenotypic and genetic correlations are high. PMID- 2515110 TI - Molecular evolution of the small subunit of ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase: nucleotide substitution and gene conversion. AB - The nucleotide sequences encoding the mature portion of 31 ribulose 1.5 bisphosphate carboxylase small subunit (SSU) genes from 17 genera of plants, green algae and cyanobacteria were examined. Among the 465 pairwise sequence comparisons, SSU multigene family members within the same species were more similar to each other in nonsynonymous or replacement nucleotide substitutions (RNS) than they were to SSU sequences in any other organism. The concerted evolution of independent SSU gene lineages within closely related plant species suggests that homogenization of RNS positions has occurred at least once in the life of each genus. The rate of expected RNS among mature SSU sequences was calculated to be 1.25 X 10(-9)/site/yr for the first 70 million years (MY) of divergence with a significant slowing to 0.13 X 10(-9)/site/yr for the next 1,400 MY. The data suggest that mature SSU sequences do not accumulate more than 20% differences in the RNS positions without compensatory changes in other components of this enzyme system. During the first 70 MY of divergence between species, the rate of expected synonymous or silent nucleotide substitutions (SNS) is approximately 6.6 X 10(-9)/site/yr. This is five times the RNS rate and is similar to the silent rate observed in animals. In striking contrast, SNS and RNS do not show this correlation among SSU gene family members within a species. A mechanism involving gene conversion within the exons followed by selection for biased gene conversion products with conservation of RNS positions and divergence of SNS positions is discussed. A SSU gene tree based on corrected RNS for 31 SSU sequences is presented and agrees well with a species tree based on morphological and cytogenetic traits for the 17 genera examined. SSU gene comparisons may be useful in predicting phylogenetic relationships and in some cases divergence times of various plant, algal and cyanobacterial species. PMID- 2515112 TI - Clonal analysis of the lac operons from Klebsiella M5al and the Lac plasmid (pRE2) from Klebsiella V9A. AB - The chromosomal lac region of the coliform bacterium Klebsiella M5al was cloned into the multicopy plasmid pBR322 to give pHE7 and pHE8. pHE8 contains 12.6 kb of M5al DNA, including its complete lac operon, and pHE7 contains 2.5 kb of M5al DNA and includes the complete lac Y gene and a small segment of lacZ. The M5al operon has the same gene order as the Escherichia coli lac operon. The lac genes of the Lac plasmid of Klebsiella V9A were cloned into pBR322 to give pHE1 and pHE2, of approximately 39 and 43 kb. Both plasmids were unstable in an E. coli RecA strain, in contrast to the stability of pHE8. Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis tests suggested that the M5al beta-galactosidase monomer is about 5% longer, i.e. has about 50 more amino acids, than that of the E. coli Z gene. Tests made on the enzymes coded by the lac operons of M5al, another Klebsiella strain (V9A) and its resident Lac plasmid, and several Lac+ Enterobacteria, led to the conclusion that only Escherichia coli among the Enterobacteria contains an active lacA gene. PMID- 2515113 TI - Characterization of third chromosome dominant alpha-methyl dopa resistant mutants (Tcr) and their interactions with l(2)amd alpha-methyl dopa hypersensitive alleles in Drosophila melanogaster. AB - In Drosophila melanogaster two alleles at the Third chromosome resistance locus (Tcr; 3-39-6) were isolated in a screen of EMS mutagenized third chromosomes for dominant resistance to dietary alpha-methyl dopa, alpha-MD, a structural analogue of DOPA. Both alleles of Tcr are recessive lethals exhibiting partial complementation. Almost half (48.3%) of the Tcr40/Tcr45 heterozygotes die as embryos but some survive past adult eclosion. Both the embryonic lethal phenotype and the adult phenotype suggest that Tcr is involved in cuticle synthesis. Tcr mutants suppress the lethality of partially complementing alleles at the alpha-MD hypersensitive locus, l(2)amd. The viability of Tcr40/Tcr45, however, is not increased by the presence of a l(2)amd allele. The possibility that the Tcr and l(2)amd mutations reveal a catecholamine metabolic pathway involved in cuticle structure is discussed. PMID- 2515114 TI - Mutations in the glucocorticoid receptor zinc finger region that distinguish interdigitated DNA binding and transcriptional enhancement activities. AB - Mammalian glucocorticoid receptors bind specifically to glucocorticoid response element (GRE) DNA sequences and enhance transcription from GRE-linked promoters in mammalian cells and in yeast. We randomly mutagenized a segment of the receptor encompassing sequences responsible for DNA-binding and transcriptional regulation and screened in yeast for receptor defects. The mutations all mapped to a 66-amino-acid subregion that includes two zinc fingers; in general parallel phenotypes were observed in yeast and animal cells. Mutants defective for DNA binding also failed either to enhance or to repress transcription. However, several mutations in the second finger selectively impaired enhancement; we suggest that such 'positive control' mutants may alter protein-protein contacts required for transcriptional activation. PMID- 2515115 TI - Primary structure of bacteriophage M2 DNA polymerase: conserved segments within protein-priming DNA polymerases and DNA polymerase I of Escherichia coli. AB - Bacteriophage M2 encodes its own DNA polymerase which catalyses the formation of a primer protein-5'dAMP initiation complex for DNA replication. To understand the relation of structure to function of this 'protein-priming DNA polymerase', we have determined the nucleotide sequence of the M2 DNA polymerase-encoding gene (gene G). The deduced 572-amino acid sequence of M2 DNA polymerase shows 82.3% overall homology to that of phi 29 DNA polymerase. A homology search with the mutation data matrix revealed that six segments (A-F, from the N terminus) of M2 and phi 29 DNA polymerases are homologous with the sequence of Escherichia coli DNA polymerase I (PolI). Segments D and F coincide with the conserved segments of many other DNA polymerases. Therefore, M2 and phi 29 DNA polymerases have structural features, at least in the conserved segments, similar to those of PolI and other DNA polymerases. Based on the homology with PolI and the location of the mutations for aphidicolin resistance and nucleoside analog resistance of M2, phi 29 and herpes simplex virus type-1 DNA polymerases, we propose that segments A-D of the M2 and phi 29 DNA polymerases constitute a structure which forms the cleft for holding template DNA and that segment D is a region for interacting with dNTP. PMID- 2515116 TI - A promoter-probe vector-host system for the cyanobacterium, Synechocystis PCC6803. AB - A vector-host system for testing promoters in the cyanobacterium Synechocystis PCC6803 has been constructed. It relies on a small Escherichia coli promoter probe plasmid, pFF11, which has four unique restriction sites in a polylinker upstream from the cat reporter gene. This plasmid is able to obtain a cyanobacterial origin of replication by homologous recombination with the resident plasmid of the recipient host, generating a new E. coli-Synechocystis PCC6803 shuttle vector. This plasmid does not confer any detectable chloramphenicol acetyl transferase activity to this cyanobacterium in the absence of a promoter insert. Several heterologous promoters were tested in Synechocystis PCC6803 using this system. Results obtained with the lambda pR promoter and the repressor-encoding cI857 gene demonstrate that these elements can be used for high-level and tightly regulated gene expression in Synechocystis PCC6803. PMID- 2515117 TI - Synthesis and secretion of hepatitis B middle surface antigen by the methylotrophic yeast Hansenula polymorpha. AB - The methylotrophic yeast, Hansenula polymorpha, has been developed as a host system for the synthesis of heterologous proteins. The middle surface antigen of hepatitis B virus (preS2-HBsAg) has been synthesized under the control of a methanol-regulated promoter derived from the methanol oxidase-encoding gene. The synthesized preS2-HBsAg protein was found to be secreted outside the cell membrane into the periplasm and further excreted into the culture medium following permeabilization of the cell wall with beta-1,3-glucanase (beta Glu). Cell cultures treated with beta Glu were able to continuously synthesize and secrete 22-nm particles of preS2-HBsAg into the medium for several days. The overall yield of antigen from treated cultures was found to be over threefold greater than that of untreated controls. The observation that complex supramolecular structures, such as the 22-nm particles of preS2-HBsAg, can be secreted by H. polymorpha and released into the medium, suggests the potential for these yeasts to be an alternative secretory host. PMID- 2515118 TI - Construction of a lacZ-kanamycin-resistance cassette, useful for site-directed mutagenesis and as a promoter probe. AB - A lacZ gene without a promoter, but containing its ribosome-binding site, was cloned next to the kanamycin-resistance (KmR) gene of plasmid pUC4K, yielding a lacZ-KmR cassette. From the resulting plasmid, pKOK5, the lacZ-KmR cassette was recloned by means of BamHI into plasmid pKOK4, a mobilizable derivative of pBR322 which mediates ampicillin, chloramphenicol and tetracycline resistance. The lacZ KmR cassette can be excised from pKOK5 or pKOK6 by digestion with BamHI, SalI or PstI. It can be used for insertion mutagenesis by ligation of the cassette to target DNA that has been linearized by one of these enzymes. Insertions can be selected by the KmR phenotype and mapped by digestion, e.g., with PstI and SalI. The orientation of the inserted cassette can be determined by digestion, e.g., with EcoRI or HindIII. Within the lacZ-KmR cassette, the transcription of the lacZ and the KmR genes are directed towards each other, and the two genes are separated by the bidirectionally active terminator from phage fd. In Escherichia coli, no transcription emanating from the cassette was detected. Transcription within DNA mutagenized by the cassette can be monitored by the promoterless lacZ gene. The lacZ-KmR cassette is currently used by us for the site-directed mutagenesis of hydrogen uptake gene-specific DNA from Rhizobium leguminosarum B10. PMID- 2515119 TI - [Selenium contents in blood and urine of persons working with copying machines]. AB - Medical investigation was made of 271 workers including 112 males and 159 females exhibited to selenium concentrations lower MAC. The atom absorption spectrometry technique was applied to determine the selenium content levels in blood and urine. The analysis performed revealed increased contents of selenium in the blood of 20.1% and in the urine of 5.5% of those examined. The selenium excretion which followed the use of antidote increased twice. No relationship between the duration of exposition and blood and urine selenium content was revealed. Antidote therapy with CaNa2 EDTA was studied in 16 inpatient clinical cases. PMID- 2515120 TI - [Study of the possibilities of using a short-term test system in vitro for detection of potential mutagens (carcinogens)]. PMID- 2515121 TI - [The chorion and decidua--morphology and biomolecular processes for their activation exemplified by premature rupture of the fetal membranes]. PMID- 2515122 TI - [Genetic, biochemical and genomic prenatal diagnosis in genetic defects]. PMID- 2515123 TI - [The double GnRH-TRH test following control of lactation with ethinyl estradiol sulfonate after abortion, early and term labor]. PMID- 2515124 TI - [Recombinant alpha and/or gamma interferon in the treatment of 45 patients with condylomata acuminata]. PMID- 2515125 TI - [Long-term follow-up of 14 patients with endometriosis, who were treated with the LHRH analog buserelin]. PMID- 2515126 TI - [Intrafollicular plasminogen activators and plasminogen activator inhibitor concentrations in relation to ovum maturation]. PMID- 2515127 TI - [MESNA--an uroprotective agent]. PMID- 2515128 TI - The aye-ayes, Daubentonia madagascariensis, at the Paris Zoological Garden: maintenance and preliminary behavioural observations. AB - The history of the aye-aye in captivity outside Madagascar is briefly reviewed. Maintenance conditions of the 3 animals currently housed at the Paris Zoo are described. In addition to providing information on the diet and feeding behaviour of the animals, details of enclosure size, humidity level, temperature, cage furniture and light cycle are provided. Preliminary behavioural observations on mother-infant relationships, grooming, nest building and play are also included. PMID- 2515129 TI - A re-evaluation of the social organisation of the Callitrichidae, with reference to the ecological differences between genera. AB - Field studies of callitrichid species have reported a surprising degree of variation in the composition of social groups, some of which has been interpreted as evidence of 'cooperative polyandry' in recent reviews. The majority of the evidence is, however, derived from studies of only one of the four callitrichid genera, Saguinus. While most features of the morphology and behaviour of all callitrichid species are broadly similar, studies of marmosets (Callithrix spp. and Cebuella pygmaea) indicate that important ecological differences exist between genera. These differences appear, in turn, to be reflected in marked contrasts in both social organisation and mating systems. A re-evaluation of the social organisation of the callitrichids, based on differences in their ecological adaptations, is presented. PMID- 2515130 TI - A large pliopithecine molar from Germany and some notes on the Pliopithecinae. AB - A lower molar of a large-bodied pliopithecine from the West German locality of Salmendingen is described and attributed to the taxon Anapithecus cf. hernyaki. This identification is used with other evidence to support the hypothesis that a femur from the nearby locality of Eppelsheim should be attributed to the Pliopithecinae. These newly identified pliopithecine fossils provide evidence of primate diversity and morphological uniqueness in the Late Miocene of Europe. PMID- 2515131 TI - Urinary excretion of oestradiol-17 beta in the female cycle of Goeldi's monkeys (Callimico goeldii). PMID- 2515132 TI - Aspects of urinary oestrogen excretion during the ovarian cycle and pregnancy in Goeldi's monkey, Callimico goeldii. PMID- 2515133 TI - Postpartum ovulation and conception in Goeldi's monkey, Callimico goeldii. PMID- 2515134 TI - Non-clastogenicity in mouse bone marrow of fructose/lysine and other sugar/amino acid browning products with in vitro genotoxicity. AB - Heated sugar/amino acid reaction mixtures, known to contain products that are clastogenic and/or mutagenic to cells in vitro, were evaluated for clastogenic activity in mouse bone marrow using the erythrocyte micronucleus assay. Heated (i.e. browned) fructose/lysine reaction mixtures were also evaluated in the Salmonella his-reversion assay and the Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell chromosomal aberration assay to confirm and extend previous in vitro observations. Significant mutagenicity of fructose/lysine mixtures was observed in Salmonella typhimurium strains TA100, TA2637, TA98 and TA102, with greater activity in mixtures heated at pH 10 than at pH 7. S-9 decreased the activity in strains TA100, TA2637 and TA98, but increased the activity in strain TA102. Both pH 7 and pH 10 reaction mixtures of the fructose/lysine browning reaction were highly clastogenic in CHO cells. Heated mixtures of fructose and lysine, and of glucose or ribose with lysine, histidine, tryptophan or cysteine, did not increase the frequency of micronucleated erythrocytes in mice when administered by the oral route. This indicates the absence of chromosomal aberrations in erythrocyte precursor cells, and indicates that the genotoxic components of the browned mixtures are not absorbed and distributed to bone marrow cells in amounts sufficient to induce micronuclei when given orally. Because sugar/amino acid browning reactions occur commonly in heated foods, it is important to evaluate further the in vivo genotoxicity of browning products in cell populations other than bone marrow. PMID- 2515135 TI - [Pathophysiology and prognosis in malignant hypertension: comparison by underlying diseases]. AB - Pathophysiological characteristics and long-term prognosis were studied retrospectively in 69 malignant hypertensives associated with grade III or IV retinopathy and the diastolic blood pressure greater than 120 mmHg. Thirty three (48%) cases had essential hypertension (EHT) as the underlying disease, 26 (38%) as chronic glomerulonephritis (CGN), and the remaining 10 (14%) as others including chronic pyelonephritis, renovascular hypertension, hydronephrosis, multiple calyceal diverticula, and unknown original disease. The role of the renin-angiotensin system in malignant hypertension was investigated by measuring plasma renin activity (PRA) and determining the blood pressure response to angiotensin (ANG)II antagonist, (Sar1, Ile8) ANG II. Basal PRA was significantly higher in the EHT group than the CGN group, and the ANG II antagonist-induced reduction of blood pressure was only evident in the former group. The regression analysis revealed that PRA was linearly correlated with both mean blood pressure (MBP) and serum creatinine prior to antihypertensive treatment in the EHT group but not in CGN patients, although there was inverse correlation between PRA and serum sodium in both groups. Therefore, the renin-angiotensin system seems to play a significant role in elevating blood pressure and deteriorating renal function in malignant hypertension developed from EHT, while it is less important in that from CGN. The 5-year survival rate was 90% in total 69 patients with malignant hypertension, while the 5-year renal survival rate defined as the probability of surviving without maintenance hemodialysis was 37%, indicating that the treatment with hemodialysis as well as antihypertensive drug therapy contributed to an improvement of prognosis of malignant hypertension. The EHT group showed a poor prognosis for life compared with the CGN group, while in the latter group most patients rapidly developed endstage renal failure. Although the pretreatment serum creatinine levels were matched, the renal function more rapidly deteriorated after development of malignant hypertension in the CGN group than did in the EHT group, indicating renal survival rate to be shorter in the former group. Hence, underlying diseases may affect the long-term prognosis of malignant hypertension. The results obtained from this study suggest that the pathophysiological characteristics of malignant hypertension are different and its long-term prognosis is varied by underlying diseases such as EHT and CGN. PMID- 2515137 TI - Is adjuvant intra-operative radiotherapy (IORT) for resectable and unresectable pancreatic carcinoma worthwhile? AB - The hitherto limited experience with IORT has demonstrated that the combined treatment modality of surgery and IORT with or without EBRT is feasible in resectable and unresectable pancreatic cancer. IORT in combination with EBRT has not significantly improved median or overall survival, but local tumor control and pain control rates have increased. The major complication of IORT in unresectable pancreatic cancer is hemorrhage from the upper gastrointestinal tract in 20% of the patients. Hence, prophylactic by-passes should be performed after IORT treatment. The exact value of IORT in the treatment of pancreatic cancer is still to be defined. A prospective randomized phase III trial is necessary to evaluate the true value of IORT in the treatment of pancreatic cancer. PMID- 2515136 TI - Controlled clinical trial of bepridil, propranolol and placebo in the treatment of exercise induced angina pectoris. B.I.S. Research Group. AB - 191 patients with exercise induced angina pectoris and a mean weekly number of attacks of 11.3 were admitted in a multicentre double-blind study after an evaluation period on placebo. They were randomly assigned to: bepridil (100-400 mg/d), propranolol (60-240 mg/d), placebo ("strength" 100-400) and treated for 6 months. During the first 8 weeks the treatment was individually titrated. Withdrawal from the study was considered as "failure". 19.2% bepridil patients, 21.8% propanolol patients and 17.1% placebo patients stopped their study medication. Severe angina pectoris leading to withdrawal was not observed in bepridil group against 3 cases in placebo (P = 0.03) and 6 in propanolol groups (P = 0.02). In all groups the number of attacks was reduced between 49 and 77%. At wk 8, bepridil patients were improved compared with placebo patients (P = 0.04). Total work performed and duration of exercise on the ergometer were increased in bepridil patients at wk 8 compared with placebo patients. However, all treatment differences had vanished by wk 24. One patient died in the bepridil group, 2 in the propranolol group and none in the placebo group. The total numbers of fatal or severe non fatal cardiovascular events were not statistically significantly different. There were less severe adverse cardiovascular reactions in the bepridil group than in the propranolol group (P less than 0.03). PMID- 2515138 TI - Testicular function in biotin-deficient adult rats. AB - We have studied testicular function in the biotin-deficient rat biochemically and morphologically. Serum testosterone and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels were decreased significantly in the deficient rats. Administration of biotin or gonadotropins to the deficient rats reversed this decrease in serum testosterone. There was no difference in the serum cholesterol level between the control and biotin-deficient rats. A significant degree of sloughing of seminiferous tubule germinal epithelium was noticed in the biotin-deficient rat testes. Biotin treatment of biotin-deficient rats reversed this condition whereas testosterone treatment was without any effect. The development and maintenance of morphological and functional integrity of the seminiferous tubules appears to require a biotin-mediated step in addition to testosterone. PMID- 2515139 TI - Effect of calcitonin and 1,25(OH)2-vitamin D3 on the FSH, LH and testosterone secretion at rest and LHRH stimulated secretion. AB - The calcium signal plays an important role in the control of the secretory process of some adenohypophyseal hormones which responds to the administration of calciotropic substances by a marked change. In the submitted work the effect of calcitonin and 1,25(OH)2-vitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) on FSH, LH and testosterone secretion was investigated. A single dose of 50 U synthetic salmon calcitonin did not influence the FSH, LH and testosterone secretion at rest nor stimulated secretion. 1,25(OH)2D3 administered for four days in amounts of 3 micrograms/day did not affect the LH and testosterone secretion but increased slightly the secretory response of FSH to LHRH, significantly during the 80th minute following administration of the secretagogue (P less than 0.01). The indication of bi phasic FSH secretion was eliminated by 1,25(OH)2D3. The significant decline of PTH levels following administration of 1,25(OH)2D3 is evidence of a biologically effective level of 1,25(OH)2D3 attained by the administered dose of hormone. As compared with the marked effect of calcitonin and 1,25(OH)2D3 on thyrotropic hormone secretion, it may be concluded that the gonadotropic system is considerably less sensitive to a change of calcium homeostasis induced by calcitonin or 1,25(OH)2D3. Nevertheless a slight increase of the FSH secretion and a change of the dynamics of its secretion suggest a modulating role of 1,25(OH)2D3 in the control of FSH secretion. PMID- 2515140 TI - Growth hormone (GH) release during the GH-releasing hormone (GHRH) test in children with idiopathic isolated (IGHD) or multiple (MGHD) GH-deficiency. PMID- 2515141 TI - An antioxidant dependent in vitro response of rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) somatotrophs to carp growth hormone-releasing factor (GRF). PMID- 2515142 TI - Underestimation of LH and FSH hormone concentrations in a patient with a gonadotropin secreting tumor: the high-dose "hook-effect" as a methodological and clinical problem. PMID- 2515143 TI - Effects of acute intravenous injection of two growth hormone-releasing hormones (GHRH 1-40 and 1-29) on serum growth hormone and other pituitary hormones in short children with pulsatile growth hormone secretion. AB - We administered two different growth hormone-releasing hormones (GHRH) to 20 short, prepubertal children who had spontaneous secretion of growth hormone (GH), assessed from 24-hour GH secretion profiles (72 sampling periods of 20 min). We compared one i.v. injection of 1 microgram/kg of GHRH 1-40 with that of GHRH 1-29 regarding serum concentrations of GH, prolactin, luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone and IGF-I. The children were allocated to two groups without statistical randomization. Both groups were given both peptides, with at least 1 week in between. The first group started with GHRH 1-40, the other with GHRH 1 29. The peptides both induced an increased serum concentration of GH of the same magnitude: mean maximal peak of 89 +/- 12 mU/l after GHRH 1-40 and 94 +/- 10 mU/l after GHRH 1-29 (n.s.). The mean difference in maximum serum GH concentration in each child after injection was 52 +/- 9 mU/l, range 1-153 mU/l. GHRH 1-29 also induced a short-term, small increase in the concentrations of prolactin (p less than 0.05), luteinizing hormone (p less than 0.01) and follicle-stimulating hormone (p less than 0.05). We conclude that the shorter sequence GHRH 1-29, when given in a dose of 1 microgram/kg, gives a rise in serum concentration of GH similar to that after the native form GHRH 1-40. PMID- 2515144 TI - Prolactin response to TRH is unaltered by pulsatile infusion of LHRH. AB - Eleven boys with constitutional delay of puberty and 7 patients with hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism underwent standard thyrotrophin-releasing hormone (TRH) tests prior to and following 6 days' pulsatile infusion of luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (240 ng/kg/pulse). There were no significant differences in basal, peak or incremental prolactin responses to TRH between the 2 groups of patients and there were no differences in the magnitude of prolactin response to TRH in either group of patients during pulsatile therapy when compared with preinfusion responses. PMID- 2515145 TI - Effect of neonatal androgenization on the testosterone feedback sensitivity in adult rats in two lighting conditions. AB - Neonatally androgenized and intact adult male Wistar rats received daily, during 1 week, either testosterone propionate or sesame oil injections in periodic or constant light. Serum and pituitary gonadotropins and hypothalamic LHRH were measured. In periodic light, neonatal androgenization did not change the serum concentration or pituitary contents of gonadotropins, or the hypothalamic content of LHRH. Testosterone injections decreased serum concentration and pituitary content of gonadotropin of intact rats but failed to decrease the pituitary gonadotropin content of neonatally androgenized rats. In constant light, serum FSH was decreased in neonatally androgenized rats. Testosterone injections decreased both serum LH and FSH concentrations of intact rats but only serum LH of androgenized rats. Pituitary gonadotropin and hypothalamic LHRH contents remained unchanged. We conclude that neonatal androgenization renders the male rat hypothalamo-pituitary axis more resistant to changes of testosterone concentration in adulthood. Constant light did not sensitize the neonatally androgenized rats to testosterone, but on the contrary, testosterone injections were less effective in constant than in periodical light. PMID- 2515146 TI - Long-term use of the low dose LHRH analogue combined with monthly medroxy progesterone administration. AB - In a pilot study, chronic pelvic pain associated with endometriosis, dysmenorrhoea or menorrhagia has been treated for prolonged periods with low dose buserelin (daily) and medroxy-progesterone (monthly). The partial inhibition of ovarian function was effective in relieving pain and controlling uterine bleeding, with few side effects. There was no change in serum cholesterol level. A possible small bone demineralisation effect has been observed. PMID- 2515147 TI - Casodex (ICI 176,334), a new, non-steroidal anti-androgen. Early clinical results. AB - Following promising results in animal studies, Casodex (ICI 176,334) has been studied in the treatment of patients with advanced prostate cancer. At doses of 10, 30 and 50 mg, the drug was found to be well tolerated, with a moderate effect on sex hormone levels. The 50 mg dose of Casodex (daily) reduced previously elevated acid phosphatase levels by 50% or more in 71% of patients. PMID- 2515148 TI - Bacterial vaginosis: prevalence in outpatients, association with some micro organisms and laboratory indices. AB - Seven hundred and ninety three women were investigated, aged between 16 and 78 years, to evaluate the prevalence of bacterial vaginosis (BV) and some associated micro-organisms, and to discuss the significance of laboratory indices correlated to this pathology. BV was diagnosed on the basis of four distinct criteria: a positive result of the test for amines with 10% KOH (odour-test), the presence of clue cells on fresh microscopic examination, a pH greater than 4.5 and direct Gram stain positive (the presence of more than 40 Gram negative or Gram variable coccobacilli per microscopic field by 1000 magnifications under oil immersion). The total prevalence of BV was 20.5% (163); similar percentages were found in both fertile and pregnant women, whereas a lower percentage (12.7%) was found in menopausal women. Gardnerella vaginalis was present in 235 (29.6%) of the 793 women, in 144 (88.3%) of the 163 with BV and in 91 (14.4%) of the 630 women without BV. Mobiluncus species was present in 8.2% (65) of the total population, in 38.6% (63) of the women with BV and only in two (0.3%) of the women without BV. In the women with BV lower percentages were found for Trichomonas vaginalis, yeasts, Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The absence of a definite relationship between BV and cultural isolation of G vaginalis is confirmed whereas the role played by Mobiluncus spp still has to be clarified. It is concluded that it is not necessary to screen with all four laboratory indices. Two positive indices from a panel of three (excluding pH greater than 4.5 and direct Gram stain positive in the same panel) allows the correct diagnosis of BV in almost all cases. PMID- 2515149 TI - Acute urethritis due to Neisseria meningitidis. PMID- 2515150 TI - Molecular cloning of a human co-beta-glucosidase cDNA: evidence that four sphingolipid hydrolase activator proteins are encoded by single genes in humans and rats. AB - Authentic cDNAs encoding the activator protein for acid beta-glucosidase (EC3.2.1.45), co-beta-glucosidase, were cloned from the pCD and lambda gt11 human cDNA libraries. Initial screening with oligonucleotide mixtures encoding amino acid sequences of co-beta-glucosidase identified partial cDNAs which were used to obtain a potentially full-length cDNA from the lambda gt11 library. This clone (2767 bp), EGTISI, contained 5' (38 bp) and 3' (1157 bp) noncoding sequences, a translation initiation site, and an open reading frame encoding 524 amino acids which included a typical hydrophobic signal sequence (16 amino acids). Computer analyses identified three regions of high similarity to co-beta-glucosidase encoded by tandem sequences in EGTISI. Searches revealed that two of these regions encoded peptides of known function; SAP1 (sphingolipid activator protein 1) and protein C (a new sphingolipid activator protein) were encoded by EGTISI sequences 5' and 3', respectively, to those for co-beta-glucosidase. The third region of similarity, encoding a theoretical peptide (undefined function), was located most 5' in the cDNA. EGTISI and its encoded polypeptide had high similarity (77% nucleotide identity and about 80% amino acid similarity) to a rat Sertoli cell cDNA and its encoded sulfated glycoprotein-1. These results indicate that a single highly conserved gene encodes the precursor for four potential sphingolipid activator proteins in rat and man. PMID- 2515151 TI - The effect of T cell depletion from spleen cell allografts on graft-versus-host disease and long-term immune reconstitution in H-2 haplotype-identical murine combinations. AB - Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) and states of immune reconstitution in allogeneic chimera mice across minor histocompatibility antigens were analyzed in excess of 9 months after injecting AKR/JSea (AKR) spleen cells into irradiated C3H/HeSlc (C3H) mice. When T cell-depleted AKR spleen cells were used as inoculum cells, neither graft failure nor GVHD was seen for 9 months postgrafting in the C3H mice irradiated with 660 rad or more. In an AKR - C3H (850 rad) model, Thy1.1+ or L3T4+ T cell depletion from donor AKR spleen cells abolished both acute and chronic GVHD in lethally irradiated C3H mice. Lyt2+ T cell depletion, however, resulted in acute and chronic GVHD in more than half of the recipient C3H mice. Moreover, actual existence of donor (AKR)-type T cells with L3T4 phenotype, but not Lyt2 phenotype, was always observed in the spleen of the C3H mice suffering from acute GVHD. In addition, the C3H mice that were irradiated with 850 rad, grafted with AKR spleen cells depleted of Lyt2.1+ T cells, escaped from acute GVHD and survived for more than 10 mo postgrafting, showed impaired activities of immune responses such as delayed footpad reaction to sheep red blood cells, antibody production tested by IgM plaque forming cells and reactivity to an intracellular bacterium. Listeria monocytogenes as compared with the C3H mice reconstituted with syngeneic C3H spleen cells or Thy1.1+ or L3T4+ T cell-depleted AKR spleen cells. These results suggest that L3T4+ T cells, rather than Lyt2+ T cells, contained in the grafted cells not only cause acute GVHD but also a long-term immunodeficient state (chronic GVHD) in recipient mice in the H 2-identical murine combinations examined here. PMID- 2515152 TI - T cell phenotype alterations in hepatosplenic schistosomiasis mansoni normalize after chemotherapy. AB - Peripheral blood T cell phenotypes, CD3-induced mitogenesis and soluble IL 2 receptor and CD8 in sera were studied in intestinal and hepatosplenic Schistosomiasis mansoni before and three to six months after therapy with praziquantel. Fifteen pairs matched for intensity of infection were analyzed and compared with local, non-infected age-matched controls. CD3+ cell counts were lower in untreated hepatosplenic schistosomiasis (median 1040 cells/microliters; 95% confidence interval 608-1269) compared to controls (1534; 1264-1620). This difference was largely accounted for by immature CD1+/CD3-cells circulating in these patients (median 388/microliters, 252-474). The frequency of CD1+ T cells in circulation decreased drastically after chemotherapy. Similar, but less marked, alterations were seen in intestinal schistosomiasis. Lymphocyte proliferation initiated by agonistic anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody was severely impaired in hepatosplenic patients, who had suffered haemorrhagic complications, but not in the cases of incipient hepatomegaly. Soluble CD8 antigen circulated in increased amounts in hepatosplenic schistosomiasis. Remarkably, a negative correlation between CD3-induced mitogenesis and circulating levels of CD8 was noted in these patients. Whereas CD3-induced mitogenesis in hepatosplenic schistosomiasis normalized after therapy, circulating IL 2R and CD8 antigen in hepatosplenic patients still exceeded control levels. The results demonstrate disturbances of CD3 and CD8 expression and/or T cell maturation in hepatosplenic schistosomiasis. Imbalanced CD4/CD8 ratios and an increased IL 2R/CD8 turnover may reflect an inhibitory circuit within the T cell compartment. PMID- 2515153 TI - Production of interferon-gamma during infection of mice with Plasmodium chabaudi chabaudi. AB - An ELISA assay, designed to detect interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) in the picogram range, was used to study the presence of IFN-gamma in serum and its production by T cells taken from C57BL/6 mice infected with Plasmodium chabaudi chabaudi. IFN gamma was detectable in mouse plasma for two to three days before the peak of parasitaemia. Similarly, IFN-gamma production by T cells could be detected in vitro. In limiting dilution cultures, the production of IFN-gamma by as few as 1,000 T cells was detectable using this assay. The limiting dilution analysis revealed that a substantial IFN-gamma response by specific T cells occurs very early in a primary infection with P. chabaudi. PMID- 2515154 TI - Interferon-gamma: a review. PMID- 2515155 TI - The role of digestive enzymes in orally induced immune tolerance. AB - The influence of digestive enzymes on the tolerogenic properties of an orally administered protein antigen, Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA), in the mouse has been investigated. A non-immunogenic peptic digest of BSA was found to be immunosuppressive when administered orally or directly injected into the mouse ileum. In contrast, untreated BSA was tolerogenic when administered orally but immunogenic following ileal administration. As determined by precipitin analysis of the proteins recovered from mouse feces, orally administered BSA was thoroughly degraded by the digestive system while the degradation in the ileum was quite limited. We conclude that to acquire tolerogenic properties, an orally administered protein must be first degraded by the proteolytic enzymes of the gastrointestinal digestive system. PMID- 2515156 TI - Immunodiagnosis of Schistosomiasis mansoni with APIA (alkaline phosphatase immunoassay). AB - The previously shown antigenicity of Schistosoma mansoni (JL venezuelan strain) alkaline phosphatase (Mg2+, pH 9.5) allowed its use in an immunodiagnosis assay, that consisted in the immunoadsorption of the enzymatic activity. Protein-A coated polyvinyl plates were used as solid phase to capture IgG from sera of infected human patients. After buffered saline washings, the plates were incubated with an enzyme-rich fraction (a n-butanol aqueous extract of adult worm obtained from pairs). Immunoadsorbed alkaline phosphatase (AP) was revealed by adding rho-nitrophenyl phosphate. Anti-AP antibodies were detected in 93% of coproparasitologically proven S. mansoni-infected venezuelan patients but not in parasite-free control sera and sera from patients infected with parasitosis other than schistosomiasis. The APIA did not correlate with cure but the anti-AP antibody response was progressively reduced after treatment. The use of an AP substrate amplifying system allowed an improvement of the assay sensitivity without loss of specificity. The data suggest that the APIA could be used as a marker of infection by S. mansoni. PMID- 2515157 TI - Morphological response of mycoplasma to fleroxacin. AB - Quinolones exhibit partially reduced activity in vitro against genital mycoplasma. Therefore, the morphological response to fleroxacin, a difluorinated quinolone, by Mycoplasma hominis was studied. Even at subinhibitory concentrations the ultrastructural investigations revealed distinct alterations such as cytolysis, vacuole and cell "ghost" formation. The typical dumbbell shaped cells observed with monofluorinated compounds were not found, which may indicate a qualitatively different mode of action. PMID- 2515158 TI - Direct activation of human polymorphonuclear leukocytes by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. AB - Brief exposure of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) to unopsonized Pseudomonas aeruginosa resulted in significant enhancement of PMN adherence and 3H deoxyglucose uptake, two important indicators of PMN activation. Dose-response and time-course experiments show that maximal stimulation of PMNs occurred at a PMN: bacteria ratio of 10:1 and exposure time of 10 min. The PMN-stimulatory capacity of P. aeruginosa was completely or partially abolished by treatment with formalin, heat, ultrasonication and ultraviolet (UV) irradiation, all of which affect the integrity of ligands on the bacteria surface. The putative glycoprotein ligand(s) contains galactose rather than glucose as shown by the ability of galactose in the medium to abrogate PMN-stimulatory activity. This PMN stimulatory activity was not mediated by soluble factor(s) released from either P. aeruginosa or PMNs as shown by experiments with appropriate supernatants. Finally, PMN-stimulating activity was also observed with P. maltophilia and P. pseudomallei, but not by the other Pseudomonas spp. such as P. cepacia and P. fluorescens. These results suggest that P. aeruginosa and other Pseudomonas spp. may have little capacity to circumvent PMN host defences. This may account in part for their limited pathogenic role as opportunistic micro-organisms, for the severe inflammatory lesions seen in Pseudomonas infections when they do occur, and is consistent with the fact that infection with these organisms is commonly associated with impaired quantity or function of PMNs. PMID- 2515159 TI - Comparison of the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of two commercial products containing glibenclamide. AB - This investigation was carried out to evaluate the in vitro dissolution as well as the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of two tablet oral dosage forms of glibenclamide, Daonil (product A) and Glucomid (product B). The two products were found to comply with the compendial requirements for both disintegration and content uniformity. Further, the in vitro dissolution characteristics of the two products are similar. The bioavailability and pharmacodynamic studies were carried out on 16 healthy male adult volunteers who received a single dose of each product in a double-blind crossover design. Blood samples were obtained over a 12-h interval and analyzed for serum glucose by glucose-oxidase method, insulin by radioimmunoassay and glibenclamide by a sensitive HPLC assay. The two products were not found to be significantly different with respect to peak serum concentrations (187.9 +/- 13.3 and 167.6 +/- 9.1 ng.ml-1 for A and B, respectively) or to the corresponding peak times (4.2 +/ 0.2 and 4.1 +/- 0.2 h for A and B, respectively). Furthermore, the two products were not found significantly different in the extent of absorption as indicated by the area under serum concentration-time curve (1,118.0 +/- 86.7 and 986.5 +/- 75.1 ng.h.ml-1 for A and B, respectively). The two products were also found to be pharmacodynamically equivalent. This was reflected by the comparable serum glucose and insulin levels. These levels correlated very well with glibenclamide concentrations after the administration of each product. These findings indicate that the two products are bioequivalent in terms of bioavailability and pharmacodynamic effects in normal healthy males. PMID- 2515160 TI - Bioavailability of a new liquid formulation of penicillin V (Isocillin syrup) and the influence of ethanol on bioavailability of penicillin V. AB - In an open, randomized four-way crossover study, four different formulations of penicillin V each containing 1.2 mega units were tested: A) new liquid formulation of Isocillin syrup, B) new liquid formulation of Isocillin syrup plus ethanol, C) commercially available penicillin V syrup containing ethanol as solubilizer and D) Isocillin film tablets. Six male and eight female healthy volunteers participated in the study. Serum concentration and urinary excretion of penicillin V were measured by HPLC or bioassay. The new liquid formulation of Isocillin syrup showed highest Cmax and AUC values. Correspondingly, urinary excretion of the new liquid formulation of Isocillin syrup was highest (38% of the given dose). Mean pharmacokinetic data of the new liquid formulation of Isocillin syrup were: tmax (h) = 0.81, Cmax (mg/l) = 9.92, AUC0-8h (mgh/l) = 13.67, lambda z (h) = 0.68, Cltot/f (ml/min) = 964. Ethanol (4.6%) had no absorption-enhancing effects. From a clinical point of view, all four formulations investigated in this trial showed serum concentrations well above bactericidal concentrations (greater than 1 mg/l) for more than 3 h. Although the interindividual variability of serum levels was high, the levels observed would guarantee therapeutic efficacy against penicillin sensitive bacterial strains. PMID- 2515161 TI - Enhanced killing of Blastomyces dermatitidis by gamma interferon-activated murine peripheral blood polymorphonuclear neutrophils. AB - Normal peripheral blood polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PB-PMNs), challenged in vitro with yeast form Blastomyces dermatitidis, reduced inoculum colony-forming units of a virulent strain by 37.5 +/- 9.5%. Pre-incubation of PB-PMNs with 10 100,000 U/ml of purified recombinant murine gamma-interferon (IFN) for 1 h prior to challenge with fungi resulted in significant enhancement of PB-PMN fungicidal activity. No direct fungicidal activity by IFN alone was observed. Pretreatment of selected concentrations of IFN shown to have PMN-enhancing activity (100 or 1000 U/ml) with rabbit hyperimmune anti-IFN antiserum for 1 h before addition to PB-PMNs abrogated the enhancement of fungicidal activity. Isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells failed to kill B. dermatitidis, even when mononuclear cells were present at a concentration ten times greater than that normally used in killing assays, and failed to be activated by IFN. Treatment of unstimulated or IFN-activated PB-PMNs with complement and hybridoma-derived monoclonal antibody specific for PMNs eliminated PB-PMN fungicidal activity. Exogenously added lipopolysaccharide (0.0005-50,000 ng/ml) did not activate PB-PMNs, whether added alone or in conjunction with IFN. The PB-PMN activating capacity of IFN could be destroyed by heat treatment (100 degrees C, 15 min) or by acid treatment with HCl (pH 2). These results demonstrate that recombinant gamma-interferon can stimulate PB-PMNs to kill B. dermatitidis, that the PB-PMN activating moiety is IFN and that PB-PMNs are responsible for fungal killing in this assay system.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515162 TI - Suppression of lymphoid cell function in vitro by inhibition of 3-hydroxy-3 methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase by lovastatin. AB - A 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl Coenzyme A (HMG CoA) reductase inhibitor, lovastatin, has recently been approved for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. However, the product of HMG CoA reductase, mevalonate (MVA), is an early precursor not only for cholesterol but also for several other essential molecules. Since HMG CoA reductase is found in lymphoid cells, the potential alteration of lymphoid cell function by lovastatin was examined. At doses equivalent to pharmacological concentrations, exposure to lovastatin for 7 days inhibited phytohemagglutinin-stimulated proliferation by 25-54% and natural killer cell cytotoxicity by 25-57%. At higher concentrations (10 microM) for shorter periods of time (48 h), lovastatin inhibited phytohemagglutin and Concanavalin A-stimulated proliferation by 83% and 38% respectively, natural killer cell cytotoxicity by 93%, and interferon gamma production by 98%. The inhibition of these parameters could be largely reversed by the addition of MVA; however, MVA itself was not a stimulant. Overall, the in vitro inhibitions seen with lovastatin raise a concern about potential in vivo alteration of lymphoid cell function seen with long term administration of HMG CoA reductase inhibitors. PMID- 2515163 TI - In-vitro versus in-vivo activities of new 5-lipoxygenase inhibitors with antiinflammatory activity. AB - The possible relationship between in-vitro inhibition of lipoxygenase (LO)/cyclooxygenase (CO) and in-vivo antiinflammatory effects of compounds such as isoflavanes (Zy 16369, Zy 16372, Zy 16681) was investigated. The latter were all shown to be potent 5-LO inhibitors when tested in vitro on human peritoneal macrophages (IC50 = 1-7 mumol/l). Zy 16372 and Zy 16681 also inhibited the 12- and 15-LO and, to a minor extent, the CO. In order to evaluate the antiinflammatory and antiproliferative effects of these compounds in vivo they were applied topically to mice. No definite correlation could be made between the inhibition of the ear oedema induced by arachidonic acid (AA), the inhibition of the epidermal ornithine-decarboxylase (ODC) activity induced by 12-O tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA), and the in-vitro activities of the compounds. Zy 16372 appeared to inhibit the oedema dose-dependently (ED50 = 5 mumol/ear) and seemed to be the most potent among the 3 compounds tested and slightly more potent than the reference compound nordihydroguaiaretic acid. As inhibitors of TPA-induced ODC, all 3 compounds exhibited comparable activity. These results suggest that the in-vivo effects of the compounds might be mediated by components other than AA metabolites, and/or be related to their specific kinetic patterns. PMID- 2515165 TI - McConnell v. Beverly Enterprises-Connecticut, Inc. PMID- 2515164 TI - Gonadotropins, testosterone and prolactin in men with abnormal semen findings and an evaluation of the hormone profile. AB - Over a 4-year period, 259 men were investigated regarding primary (86.5%) or secondary (13.5%) infertility. Men with azoospermia had significantly higher concentrations of FSH and LH and lower concentrations of testosterone than those with spermatozoa. High concentrations of FSH and LH in serum were found in case of low sperm density. Men with low testicular volume had high concentrations of FSH and LH and low concentrations of testosterone. FSH was closely correlated with LH and also with total testicular volume. A negative correlation was found between both gonadotropins and testosterone. The correlation between LH and testosterone was stronger in axoospermic men than in those with spermatozoa in semen. Serum concentrations of prolactin were higher in men with high sperm motility than among men with low motility of spermatozoa. Otherwise, prolactin concentrations were not correlated either with sperm density or with the morphology of spermatozoa or total testicular volume. A 'hormone profile' of FSH, LH and testosterone concentrations is suggested useful in the routine investigation of the infertile man, as more information is given by this profile than by FSH concentrations alone. PMID- 2515166 TI - Facial dystonia: clinical features, prognosis and pharmacology in 31 patients. AB - The natural history and response to different treatments were assessed in 31 consecutive patients with blepharospasm (BS) and/or oromandibular dystonia (OMD). The mean age at onset was 52.4 years and there was a female preponderance of 2.5 to 1. Ocular symptoms preceded the onset of blepharospasm in more than 50% of the affected patients, whereas psychiatric and dental problems prior to the onset of focal dystonia were found in 10% and 13% of the cases respectively. Dystonia elsewhere, mainly in the craniocervical area, was found in 23% of patients and appeared to follow a somatotopic progression. The first 2-3 years of history were crucial for the spread of dystonia to other face and body parts. When OMD was the first symptom, a lower tendency of dystonia to progress elsewhere was observed. A putative cause was found in 14% of patients who showed clinical and radiographic evidence of basal ganglia or rostral brainstem-diencephalon lesions. The response to different drugs was inconsistent although transient improvement was induced by haloperidol in 6 patients, by L-Dopa plus deprenyl in 3 patients, by trihexyphenidyl in 2 patients and by clonazepam in 2 patients. One, apparently spontaneous, remission was observed. Botulinum A toxin was injected in the orbicularis oculi of 8 patients affected by BS: moderate to marked improvement lasting 5 to 30 weeks (mean 14.5 weeks) was achieved in all cases; transient ptosis, lasting 1 to 3 weeks, occurred in 3 cases. PMID- 2515167 TI - Experimental allergic encephalomyelitis in the monkey: humoral immunity and blood brain barrier function. AB - Acute monophasic experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (AMEAE) was induced in 5 Macacus cynomolgus monkeys. Serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) paired samples were collected before and four weeks after immunization, time of complete development of AMEAE clinical picture. After immunization the CSF/serum albumin ratio and the IgG index were markedly increased. Agarose isoelectric focusing (AIEF) followed by immunofixation revealed faint IgG oligoclonal bands in both serum and CSF of all monkeys, which became more evident after Kappa and Lambda assessment. Intrathecal synthesis of IgG oligoclonal bands was detected in only one CSF. Affinity-driven immunoblotting failed to detect anti-myelin basic protein (MBP) oligoclonal IgG. No free light chain (FLC) patterns or IgA and IgM oligoclonal bands were detected. PMID- 2515168 TI - MRI and CT evaluation of brain in neurofibromatosis. Case report. AB - Few MRI studies have been performed on subjects with Von Recklinghausen's neurofibromatosis. This not very well-known disease present lesions which in many cases do not appear on CT scans but may be detected by MRI. The nature of such lesions is still controversial. This paper will describe the case of a 7 year-old girl with neurofibromatosis. MRI examination revealed altered signals in some areas: in the basal nuclei, in the brainstem and in the white matter of the cerebellar hemispheres. PMID- 2515169 TI - The antiphospholipid syndrome. PMID- 2515170 TI - Allozyme polymorphism at the alpha Gpdh and Adh loci and fitness in Drosophila melanogaster. AB - We have studied in Drosophila melanogaster the effects of allozyme variation at the alpha Gpdh and Adh loci on the following fitness components: female fecundity, egg hatchability, egg-to-adult survival under near-optimal and competitive conditions, rate of development under near-optimal and competitive conditions, and mating capacity of males. Significant effects of the alpha Gpdh locus on rate of development under competitive conditions (SS greater than FS greater than SS), and of the Adh locus on egg hatchability (FF = SS greater than FS) and egg-to-adult survival under competitive conditions (FF greater than SS = FS) were revealed. Possible natural selection mechanisms involved in the maintenance of allozyme polymorphisms at the alpha Gpdh and Adh loci are described. These mechanisms and the fitness of In(2L)t may account for the persistence and clinal distribution of the two allozyme polymorphisms in nature. PMID- 2515171 TI - Experimental mucopolysaccharidosis: preservation and ultrastructural visualization of intralysosomal glycosaminoglycans by use of the cationic dyes cuprolinic blue and toluidine blue. AB - The cationic dyes Cuprolinic Blue (CB) and Toluidine Blue (TB) were used to preserve the intralysosomal storage material accumulating in tilorone-induced mucopolysaccharidosis. As shown in previous studies, the stored glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are leached during the conventional fixation procedure, with the result that the lysosomes appear empty. In the present study, the liver, spleen, and cornea-conjunctiva of tilorone-treated rats were examined. The application of CB in the presence of 0.1 M or 0.3 M MgCl2 simultaneously with, or subsequently to the primary fixative yielded electron-dense precipitates within the storage lysosomes. When TB (0.1%) was added to the primary fixative, the storage lysosomes contained filamentous structures arranged in reticular patterns. With increasing TB concentrations (up to 1%) the lysosomes increasingly often showed apparently amorphous storage material which was continuous with the reticular filamentous structures. Similar ultrastructural patterns were obtained with GAG-TB complexes prepared in vitro. The intralysosomal storage material preserved by TB is interpreted as GAG-TB precipitates. In conclusion, the use of CB provides a method which allows direct cytochemical demonstration of the subcellular sites of GAG-storage. The use of TB represents an easy method to obtain electron micrographs pathognomonic of the mucopolysaccharidosis induced by tilorone and congeners. Either method may be helpful to detect this adverse drug effect at the subcellular level. PMID- 2515173 TI - My personal thoughts on the recent joint U.S./Japan cancer meeting in Honolulu, Hawaii. PMID- 2515172 TI - Light and electron microscopic evidences of the presence of c-fos-like immunoreactivity in the rat adrenal cortex. AB - The presence and localization of c-fos-like immunoreactivity in the rat adrenal cortex has been demonstrated by immunocytochemical methods at both light and electron microscopic level. C-fos-like immunoreactivity was detected in the zona fasciculata and the zona reticulata, but not in the zona glomerulosa. Ultrastructurally, all products of c-fos-like immunoreaction were localized exclusively in the regions associated with the euchromatin in the nucleus of the immunoreactive cells. Moreover, a higher density of the immunoreactive cells in the adrenal cortex of pregnant rats was found with quantitative immunocytochemistry as compared to the non-pregnant. The characteristic zonation of c-fos-like immunoreactivity in the adrenal cortex suggest that the c-fos protein is involved in the normal function of the glucocorticoid-producing cells of mammalian adrenals. The numerical increase in the immunoreactive cells in pregnant rats implies that basal expression of the c-fos-like protein may vary with the functional state of the cortical cells. PMID- 2515174 TI - ATL development after adult infection of HTLV-1? PMID- 2515175 TI - Performance certification of gelatin particle agglutination assay for anti-HTLV-1 antibody: inconclusive positive results. AB - In order to test the performance of particle agglutination assay (PA), 800 preselected PA-positive sera at 8 blood centers in the Kyushu area were tested in various assays. Most blood centers should improve their PA technique, since a third of the samples were PA-negative in our hands. A third of our PA high-titer sera were negative in indirect immunofluorescence and enzyme immunoassay, the results of which were consistent with each other. Western blots did not detect every positive serum. PA inhibition positivity was not consistent with PA titer. Most IgM antibody-positive sera also contained IgG antibody. PA should be used in combination with other methods before notifying the results to positive testees. PMID- 2515176 TI - Secretion of transforming growth factor-beta by human myelogenous leukemic cells and its possible role in proliferation of the leukemic cells. AB - Transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta activity was found in the neutral extracts of human myelogenous leukemic cells or K562 cells and the conditioned medium from K562 cell culture. BALB/c 3T3 cells grown in soft agar in the presence of TGF beta 1 produced an activity that stimulated the growth of K562 cells. This activity was non-dialyzable, acid-stable, heat-sensitive and partially inactivated by pronase treatment. These results suggest a mutual growth reliance between the leukemic cells and fibroblasts mediated by paracrine growth factors produced by these cells. PMID- 2515177 TI - A case-control study of biliary tract cancer in Niigata Prefecture, Japan. AB - A case-control study of biliary tract cancer was conducted in Niigata prefecture where the mortality of the cancer is the highest in Japan. The cases were 109 patients with gallbladder cancer and 84 with bile duct cancer, and the controls were 386 sex- and age-matched neighborhood controls. For gallbladder cancer, a past history of biliary tract disease, a positive family history of cholelithiasis and a taste for oily foods were high risk factors. Intakes of animal proteins and fats such as fish, eggs, meat, etc., ingestion of vegetables and fruits, and taking snacks were low risk factors for gallbladder cancer. For bile duct cancer, a past history of biliary tract disease, a family history of cerebral vascular accident, a thin constitution and taking a small amount of foods were high risk factors, and a family history of heart disease, obesity, intakes of alcohol, animal proteins and fats, or frequent intakes of vegetables and fruits were low risk factors. PMID- 2515178 TI - Strain differences in susceptibility to 2-acetylaminofluorene and phenobarbital promotion of rat hepatocarcinogenesis in a medium-term assay system: quantitation of glutathione S-transferase P-positive foci development. AB - Strain differences in susceptibility to promotion by the liver carcinogens 2 acetylaminofluorene (2-AAF) and phenobarbital (PB) were examined in the medium term bioassay system initially developed in our laboratory using male F344 rats as the test animal and glutathione S-transferase placental form (GST-P)-positive foci as the lesion end-point. Numbers and areas per cm2 of induced GST-P-positive hepatocellular foci were compared in LEW, F344, NAR, SD, WBN, SHR, Wistar and ODS rats initiated with diethylnitrosamine (DEN) and subjected to partial hepatectomy during subsequent administration of 2-AAF or PB. LEW, SD, WBN, and F344 rats were most susceptible to hepatopromotion by both compounds, with a hundred fold increase in lesion area being observed for 2-AAF in the LEW case. NAR and SHR strains demonstrated an intermediate response, while Wistar and, in particular, the related ODS rats demonstrated very low susceptibilities. The obvious strain differences could be expressed in terms of comparative indices of promoting effects of 2-AAF and PB as well as DEN itself regarding each of the 8 strains tested. The use of F344 rats for the bioassay model was validated by the relatively high sensitivity to both DEN and 2-AAF initiation as well as second stage promotion stimulus exhibited. PMID- 2515179 TI - Inhibition by dietary benzylselenocyanate of hepatocarcinogenesis induced by azoxymethane in Fischer 344 rats. AB - The effect of dietary benzylselenocyanate (BSC), a novel organoselenium compound and its sulfur analog, benzylthiocyanate (BTC), on hepatocarcinogenesis induced by azoxymethane (AOM) was investigated in male F344 rats. Eighty-one weanling rats were divided into 3 groups and were raised on a semipurified diet (control diet). Starting from 5 weeks of age, groups of animals consuming the control diet were fed one of the experimental diets containing 25 ppm BSC or BTC. An additional group was continued on the control diet. At 7 weeks of age, animals were given weekly sc injections of AOM (15 mg/kg body weight once weekly for 2 weeks). One week after the second AOM injection, those groups receiving BSC and BTC diets were transferred to the control diet and continued on this diet until termination of the experiment at 34 weeks after the last AOM injection. For quantitative analysis of enzyme-altered liver cell foci, glutathione S transferase placental form was stained by an immunohistochemical technique. The results indicate that the incidence and the density of the enzyme-altered foci were significantly lower in AOM-treated rats fed the diet containing 25 ppm BSC (foci incidence 56%, foci density 2.43/cm2) than in AOM-treated animals fed the control diet (foci incidence 92%, foci density 4.79/cm2). The incidence of small altered foci was significantly inhibited in rats fed the BTC diet (35%) as compared to those fed the control diet (68%), but the degree of inhibition was more pronounced in animals fed the BSC diet than in those fed the BTC diet. PMID- 2515182 TI - A comparative study of enzyme variation in Bacillus cereus and Bacillus thuringiensis. AB - Thirty-two strains of Bacillus spp. were examined in a multilocus enzyme study by agarose gel electrophoresis. The organisms were Bacillus thuringiensis (21 strains, B. cereus (8), including two of var. mycoides, and B. megaterium (3). Strains having similar enzyme variants were grouped into zymovars. A total of 10 of 11 enzyme loci studied were polymorphic and 27 zymovars were distinguished among the 32 strains. The results were subjected to numerical analysis, phenetic affinities and genetic distances between the strains were calculated. The numerical analysis was unable to differentiate between B. thuringiensis and B. cereus. Our results indicated that based on this multilocus enzyme study these zymovars should be considered as belonging to the same species. A mycoides variant of B. cereus was the most distinctive strain studied and clearly belonged to a separate species, B. mycoides. The technique also allowed for identification of contamination and mislabelling of strains. PMID- 2515180 TI - Translocation t(12;16)(q13;p11) in myxoid liposarcoma of a child and implication of the human int-1 gene in tumorigenesis. AB - Cytogenetic and gene analyses were performed in a child with myxoid liposarcoma (MLS). A reciprocal chromosome translocation t(12;16)(q13;p11) was found in the tumor cells. This result, combined with the previous reports of a similar translocation in adult MLS strongly suggests that this translocation may be a characteristic cytogenetic marker in MLS. The human int-1 gene has been reported to be located close to the 12q13 breakpoint associated with MLS. Therefore, we examined the rearrangement of the human int-1 gene by Southern blotting analysis. When genomic DNAs from the tumor cells were digested with KpnI, EcoRI and BamHI, no difference was seen compared to peripheral blood leukocytes (PBL) DNAs from a normal individual. However, with HindIII digestion there appeared a 3.1 kb fragment in tumor cell DNA as compared to a 2.8 kb fragment in DNAs prepared from normal PBL and the patient's PBL. These findings suggest that the int-1 gene may be implicated in tumorigenesis of MLS with t(12;16)(q13;p11). PMID- 2515181 TI - Elevated concentrations of brain-type glycogen phosphorylase in renal cell carcinoma. AB - We determined tissue concentrations of brain-type glycogen phosphorylase in normal kidney and renal cell carcinoma by enzyme immunoassay; we also localized it immunohistochemically. Tissue concentration of brain-type glycogen phosphorylase in the renal cortex (n = 13) was 1430 +/- 709 ng/mg protein (mean +/- standard deviation) and that in the medulla (n = 13) was 1270 +/- 635 ng/mg protein. On the other hand, the concentration in renal cell carcinoma (n = 26) was 2530 +/- 1540 ng/mg protein, ranging from 520 to 6860 ng/mg, significantly higher than those in renal cortex and medulla. Clear cell type tumors contained slightly higher levels of the phosphorylase (2600 +/- 1430 ng/mg protein) than granular cell type tumors (2100 +/- 1520 ng/mg protein). In renal tissues, brain type glycogen phosphorylase was immunohistochemically localized in epithelial cells of proximal and distal tubules, collecting tubules, thick and thin limbs of loops of Henle, and Bowman's capsules. In renal cell carcinoma, the phosphorylase was immunohistochemically demonstrated in 97% (34/35) of cases, including one sarcomatoid variant. These findings indicate that renal cell carcinoma cells contain enhanced tissue levels of brain-type glycogen phosphorylase. PMID- 2515184 TI - Effect of heat and ultrasonic waves on the survival of two strains of Bacillus subtilis. AB - The combined effect of ultrasonic (20 KHz, 150 W) and heat treatment on the survival of two strains of Bacillus subtilis in three suspending media (distilled water, glycerol and milk) has been studied. When spores suspended in water or milk were subjected to ultrasonic waves before heat treatments a little or no decrease of the heat resistance was observed. However, both sporicidal agents applied simultaneously (thermo-ultrasonication) decreased by 63% (B. subtilis, var. niger-40) and 74% (B. subtilis ATCC 6051) the decimal reduction times for the heat treatment when the spores were suspended in glycerol and by 79% and 40%, respectively when suspended in milk. The thermo-ultrasonication of spores in water markedly reduced the heat resistance of them (between 99.9% and 70%) in the range 70-95 degrees C but the effect of the thermo-ultrasonication significantly diminished as the temperature of the treatment was approached to the boiling point of the water. PMID- 2515183 TI - Glutaraldehyde: its uptake by sporing and non-sporing bacteria, rubber, plastic and an endoscope. AB - Uptake of glutaraldehyde to bacterial spores, germinating and outgrowing spores, vegetative cells (sporing and non-sporing bacteria), various types of rubber, plastic and an endoscope was investigated. Escherichia coli NCTC 10418 exhibited greatest uptake, followed by Bacillus subtilis NCTC 8236 vegetative cells and Staphylococcus aureus NCTC 6571. Germinated and outgrowing B. subtilis spores adsorbed more glutaraldehyde than resting spores, but less than vegetative cells. Low concentrations of alkaline and acid glutaraldehyde increased the surface hydrophobicity and inhibited the germination of bacterial spores, the alkaline solution to a greater extent in both cases. Rubbers exhibited varying degrees of uptake and are listed in decreasing order of uptake: red rubber, fluorinated rubber (Vinescol), silicone rubber (Silescol), butyl rubber (Butyl XX). Polypropylene, the only plastic examined, was found not to adsorb any glutaraldehyde. The endoscope adsorbed more glutaraldehyde (per gram) than fluorinated rubber but less than red rubber. No damage was observed. PMID- 2515185 TI - Effect of supported employment on the vocational outcomes of persons with traumatic brain injury. AB - This paper reports the job placement of 5 males with severe traumatic brain injury. An individual placement model of supported employment was used. All individuals were placed in competitive employment and received staggered intervention over time by trained employment specialists. A multiple baseline design across persons was used to evaluate results. All individuals had been unable to work consistently or at all in competitive work environments. The range of wages was $4.25 to $5.00 per hour with an average of 339 hours of employment specialist intervention time required per case. The major problems experienced by employment specialists were insubordinate and disruptive behaviors as well as other inappropriate social behaviors displayed at the job site. PMID- 2515186 TI - Benefits and costs of supported employment: an analysis of the Illinois Supported Employment Project. AB - This investigation presents a cost-benefit analysis completed for one of 27 states implementing supported employment as a result of federal funding. Based upon the benefits and costs detailed, society realized a $0.75 return for every $1.00 invested in supported employment in Illinois. Supported employees realized a 37% increase in their earnings over a comparable period. The results of this study are discussed and recommendations are made for similar analyses across states. PMID- 2515187 TI - The molecular basis of the inhibitory activities of type A and type B synergimycins and related antibiotics on ribosomes. AB - Synergimycins A and B act synergistically in vivo; the mixture of the two compounds is more powerful than the individual components and their combined action is irreversible. Type A (virginiamycin M, VM-like) components inactivate the donor and acceptor sites of peptidyltransferase, thus interfering with the corresponding functions of the enzyme. They block two of the peptide chain elongation steps: aminoacyl-tRNA (AA-tRNA) binding to the A site of ribosomes, and peptide bond formation with peptidyl-tRNA (pep-tRNA) at the P site. A tight (non-exchangeable) linkage of tRNA derivatives with the two ribosomal sites requires a stable interaction of their aminoacyl component with peptidyltransferase. Such interaction is prevented by VM, hence the release of AA tRNA from the A site and of pep-tRNA from the P site upon translocation; ultracentrifugally unstable particles (60S) are thus formed. A new model for peptidyltransferase has been proposed, to account for the interference of VM with the two sites of the enzyme. The action of this antibiotic is partly due to its presence on the ribosome, and partly to the conformational alterations triggered by its binding. Type B synergimycins (VS-like) and the related 14-membered macrolides (erythromycin) have a more complex action, as revealed by copolymer based models of cell-free protein synthesis. These antibiotics produce an inhibition of peptide bond formation, and a release of incomplete peptide chains, which processes are both template-dependent (i.e. linked to the polymerization of basic amino acids and proline). The functional interference of VS with peptidyltransferase is explained by the location of the corresponding binding site at the base of the central protuberance of 50S subunits. When ribosome.VS complexes are incubated with erythromycin, the former antibiotic is replaced by the latter; such a replacement does not occur in the presence of VM, which reduces ribosome affinity for macrolides and increases that for type B synergimycins. A study of these complex ribosomal interactions by stopped-flow spectrofluorimetry had allowed a mapping of the binding sites for the MLS antibiotics (macrolides, lincosamides, type B synergimycins) within the peptidyltransferase domain. The active component of these binding sites is represented by segments (loop V and domain II) of 23S rRNA, as indicated by protection and mutation mapping experiments, L proteins increasing the affinity of fixation and its specificity. PMID- 2515189 TI - Decrease in a constitutive form of cytochrome P-450 by macrolide antibiotics. AB - The effects of administration of macrolide antibiotics on cytochrome P-450 in liver microsomes of male rats were investigated. The macrolides tested were those with a 14-membered ring such as oleandomycin, troleandomycin, erythromycin and erythromycin estolate, and those with a 16-membered ring such as rokitamycin, leucomycin and josamycin. Cytochrome P-450-metabolite complex was detected with oleandomycin, troleandomycin, erythromycin and erythromycin estolate, whereas no such effect was observed with rokitamycin, leucomycin and josamycin. The content of uncomplexed cytochrome P-450 in liver microsomes remained unchanged with rokitamycin, leucomycin and josamycin, decreased with troleandomycin and oleandomycin, and increased with erythromycin and erythromycin estolate, indicating that oleandomycin, troleandomycin, erythromycin and erythromycin estolate also affect the amounts of other forms of cytochrome P-450. The administration of oleandomycin, troleandomycin, erythromycin and erythromycin estolate resulted in a dramatic decrease in the activities of testosterone 2 alpha- and 16 alpha-hydroxylases in liver microsomes. Supporting these results, a marked decrease (more than 75%) in the content of P-450-male, a major constitutive form of cytochrome P-450 in male rats, was noted with oleandomycin, troleandomycin, erythromycin and erythromycin estolate, while the decrease was rather small with rokitamycin and leucomycin. We conclude that the administration of the 14-membered ring macrolides may affect drug and steroid metabolism not only by formation of P-450-metabolite complex but also by decrease in the content of P-450-male. PMID- 2515188 TI - Use of the Malthus Microbial Growth Analyser to study the post antibiotic effect of antibiotics. AB - The post antibiotic effect (PAE) of ceftazidime, ciprofloxacin, mecillinam and imipenem alone and in combination against Gram-negative bacteria was assessed by a new technique using a Malthus Microbial Growth Analyser. Ciprofloxacin gave the most prolonged and consistent PAE (1.3-2.9 h) and imipenem also gave a significant PAE against some bacterial strains (up to 1.3 h). The PAE of both antibiotics was dependent on concentration. The PAE of combinations of ciprofloxacin and imipenem often showed less PAE than was present with either agent alone. Ceftazidime gave no significant PAE (-1.5-0.4 h), though mecillinam consistently gave a short PAE (approximately 0.5 h) against Escherichia coli. The new method allows for the rapid and labour saving evaluation of PAE. We believe that further studies on PAE of antibiotic combinations are desirable. PMID- 2515190 TI - Reduced susceptibility of a mucoid strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to lysis by ticarcillin and piperacillin. PMID- 2515191 TI - Microheterogeneity and oligosaccharide chains on the beta chains of HLA-DR, human major histocompatibility complex class II antigen, analyzed by the lectin nitrocellulose sheet method. AB - The beta chain of human histocompatibility complex class II antigen, HLA-DR, showed 4 to 5 microheterogeneous spots on a gel obtained by two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The types of oligosaccharide chains on the beta chains were analyzed by the lectin-nitrocellulose sheet method for each microheterogeneous spot with 3 cell lines of two haplotypes (HLA-DR 4,4, and 3,3). Two kinds of oligosaccharide chains were observed and were essentially the same in the microheterogeneous spots from all three cell lines. One, the oligosaccharide chain on the most basic spot (beta 1), was stained with peroxidase-coupled concanavalin A (Con A-P.O.) but not with peroxidase-coupled wheat germ agglutinin and was sensitive to endo-beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase H (endo H), indicating that it was a high-mannose type. The oligosaccharide chains on other spots that were not stained with Con A-P.O. but were stained with peroxidase-coupled Ricinus communis agglutinin were resistant to endo H. beta 2 and beta 3 were stained with E-PHA. Thus, they probably had bisected biantennary and others probably had multiantennary complex-type oligosaccharides. Sialidase experiments showed that the charge heterogeneity was due to post-translational sialylation of the oligosaccharide chains. In pulse-chase experiments, the most basic spot of beta chain (beta 1) was labeled first, beta 2 and beta 3 were labeled next, and beta 4 was labeled last. These labeling characters accorded well with the results on the oligosaccharide types mentioned above. PMID- 2515192 TI - Regulation of serum glycosaminoglycan sulfotransferase activities: inhibition by sulfated glycosaminoglycans and activation by polyamines and basic peptides including a polylysine-containing segment of the c-Ki-ras 2 protein. AB - The regulatory mechanisms for the glycosaminoglycan sulfotransferases in fetal calf serum were investigated. The enzymes examined were those which transfer sulfate from 3'-phosphoadenosine 5'-phosphosulfate to 1) position 6 of the internal N-acetylgalactosamine units of chondroitin, 2) position 6 of galactose units of keratan sulfate, and 3) position 2 (an amino group) of glucosamine units of heparan sulfate. The former two enzymes were activated by spermidine, spermine, protamine, and poly L-lysine. All the enzymes were strongly inhibited by heparin and dextran sulfate, whereas only the chondroitin 6-O-sulfotransferase was inhibited by sulfated galactosaminoglycans. The inhibition of this enzyme by the sulfated glycosaminoglycans was abolished by polylysine, indicating that the activation by polylysine is partly due to the neutralization of endogenous acidic inhibitors, including sulfated glycosaminoglycans. Affinity chromatographic studies demonstrated that heparin specifically binds to the three enzymes, which have anionic isoelectric points, and that chondroitin 6-sulfate, spermine, and polylysine bind to the former two enzymes under physiological conditions. Thus, the activation by spermine and polylysine as well as the inhibition by sulfated glycosaminoglycans also appears to occur through their binding to the enzymes. Studies with synthetic lysine oligomers and an affinity-purified (approximately 700-fold) fraction containing the former two enzymes indicated that the pentamer is the minimum unit required for the activation. A synthetic peptide, containing six consecutive lysines at the carboxy terminus of the human c-Ki-ras 2 protein, also regulated the two enzyme activities at micromolar concentrations. The possible physiological implications of the observed effects of these regulatory substances on the glycosaminoglycan sulfotransferases are discussed in relation to glycosaminoglycan synthesis during the proliferation, differentiation, and transformation of cells. The possibility of sulfated glycosaminoglycans being enzyme regulators is also discussed. PMID- 2515194 TI - Division competence in Tetrahymena: determination of minimum cell volume and rate of nutrient uptake. AB - Cell volume and doubling time have been determined for exponentially growing Tetrahymena pyriformis cells in broth medium with and without glucose and in media made from these media by dilution with water. The cells tolerate media with dry weights from 105 down to 0.06 g/L. In the diluted media the cells have small volumes and the doubling time is increased. When the cell volume increase per time per cell in a given medium is expressed as a function of the cell volume in this same medium, a direct proportionality is found. From this equation the minimum cell volume of division competence (MVDC) can be found. It is 2,100 microns 3 for T. pyriformis at 28 degrees C. The lag period resulting from an upshift of exponentially growing cells from diluted media to more concentrated media is a function of the initial and resulting cell volumes and MVDC. The increase in cell volume per unit of time for a given cell depends on the dry weight of the medium. This parameter can be transformed to mass increase per cell surface area per time, which represents rate of nutrient uptake. When plotted against the dry weight of the media, a Michaelis-Menten-like curve is obtained with two Km values of 3.8 and 0.08 g/L with corresponding Vmax values of 20 and 4 ng/cm2.s. The low Km value (0.08 g/L) indicates that Tetrahymena is able to take up nutrients from highly diluted media. The high value of Vmax (20 ng/cm2.s) increases the ability of growth in more concentrated media.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515193 TI - A comparative study on the NH2-terminal amino acid sequences and some other properties of six isozymic forms of human pepsinogens and pepsins. AB - Six pepsinogen isozymogens, including five forms of pepsinogen A (PGA) and an apparently single form of pepsinogen C (PGC), were isolated simultaneously from the purified total pepsinogen fraction of human gastric mucosa by fast protein liquid chromatography on a Mono Q column, and their NH2-terminal amino acid sequences and some other properties were compared. Upon activation at pH 2.0, all the isozymogens were converted to the corresponding pepsins in a stepwise manner through intermediate forms. The activation rates and the cleavage sites in the activation peptide segment to generate intermediate forms were significantly different among the isozymogens. The NH2-terminal 85-residue amino acid sequences of these isozymogens were determined, including the sequences of the activation peptide segments and the NH2-terminal regions of the corresponding pepsins. Differences in amino acid sequence were found at positions 43 and 77 among the pepsinogen A isozymogens; the residue at position 43 was Lys in PGA-5, PGA-4, and PGA-3a, and Glu in PGA-3 and PGA-2, and the residue at position 77 was Leu in PGA 5 and PGA-4 and Val in PGA-3 and PGA-2. Phosphate was not found in any of the isozymogens. The corresponding pepsins also showed significant variations in properties such as specific activities toward synthetic and protein substrates, pH dependence of activity, susceptibility to various inhibitors, and thermal and alkaline stabilities. PMID- 2515195 TI - An immunocytochemical study of the proliferating cell nuclear matrix antigen p125/6.5 during rat spermatogenesis. AB - In previous studies of proliferating mammalian cells a p125/6.5 nuclear matrix antigen displaying a marked increase in mitotic cells has been identified. This antigen was investigated by immunocytochemistry of cryosections of testes at different stages of postnatal development: newborn, 20 days after birth and sexually mature rats. In Sertoli cells, the distribution of the p125/6.5 antigen parallels [3H]thymidine incorporation: present in newborn and absent in sexually mature testes. The p125/6.5 antigen is present also in some prespermatogonia of the newborn rat testis, which do not incorporate [3H]thymidine. At later stages of development, the p125/6.5 antigen is present also in first meiotic prophase spermatocytes displaying an extrachromosomal nucleoplasmic distribution, while absent in spermatids and spermatozoa. These results show that the p125/6.5 antigen increases not only during mitosis, but also during meiosis. They suggest further that this antigen is characteristic of both proliferating cells and cells (prespermatogonia) committed to proliferation. PMID- 2515196 TI - Sertoli cell ectoplasmic specializations: a type of actin-associated adhesion junction? AB - In this paper we provide evidence that ectoplasmic specializations are a form of intercellular adhesion junction. Ectoplasmic specializations, found at basal junctions between adjacent Sertoli cells and at sites of adhesion between Sertoli cells and germ cells, consist of actin filament bundles sandwiched between the plasma membrane and a cistern of endoplasmic reticulum. The actin filaments in each bundle are unipolar and are hexagonally packed. The bundles are coupled to the adjacent membranes and to each other. Because ectoplasmic specializations are associated with junctional sites, they may play a role in intercellular adhesion. In this study, we report a procedure for obtaining samples enriched for ectoplasmic specializations and identify polypeptides that may be associated with ectoplasmic specializations. On SDS-polyacrylamide gels, an 83K (K = 10(3) Mr) polypeptide is specific to the ectoplasmic specialization-enriched sample, suggesting that it may be a component of ectoplasmic specializations. Other polypeptides at 38, 53, 56 and 69K also may be associated with ectoplasmic specializations. Immunoblots further indicate that fimbrin and vinculin are present in the ectoplasmic specialization-enriched fraction. In addition, immunofluorescence indicates that vinculin is associated with spermatid-Sertoli cell and Sertoli-Sertoli cell junctions. We suspect that fimbrin, an actin bundling protein, may be involved in cross-linking the hexagonally packed actin filaments in ectoplasmic specializations while vinculin may be associated with actin-membrane linkages. If so, ectoplasmic specializations may be a new class of actin-associated junctional site. Moreover, the presence of vinculin in testicular fractions enriched for ectoplasmic specializations and at junctional sites supports the view that these structures may play a role in intercellular adhesion, possibly by stabilizing an adhesive membrane domain. PMID- 2515197 TI - Autoradiographic analysis of formylpeptide chemoattractant binding, uptake and intracellular processing by neutrophils. AB - Formylpeptide chemoattractant binds specifically to leukocyte cell surface receptors and during chemotactic activation, is internalized and processed by these cells. Using electron microscope autoradiographic techniques, we have examined the binding, uptake and disposition of fNle-Leu-Phe-Nle-[125I]Tyr-Lys by rabbit peritoneal neutrophils. Cells were incubated with ligand for 15 min at 4 degrees C, rinsed and then further incubated in buffer at 4 degrees C, 15 degrees C, 24 degrees C, or 37 degrees C for 0-40 min. For all cells incubated at 4 degrees C, grains were predominantly localized on the plasma membrane. Initially, this formylpeptide was seen in small clusters or microaggregates that were not associated with coated pits. Upon further incubation at 37 degrees C for 1 min, formylpeptide clustering on the plasma membrane increased and extensive internalization of formylpeptide was observed. Endocytosis of formylpeptide receptor complexes clearly involved uncoated membrane pits and vesicles but did not appear to involve coated pits or coated vesicles. In the following 3 min, peptide proceeded in waves through compartments composed of small uncoated endocytic vesicles, then large vesicles, and then into dense granules. After 4 min at 37 degrees C, the most active phase of intracellular processing subsided. The percentage of grains in the cytoplasm, granule and small vesicle compartments very gradually increased during the remainder of the 40 min incubation. Formylpeptide neither bound at 4 degrees C nor accumulated at 37 degrees C on the cell surface in proximity to the underlying Golgi/centrosome region of the cell. At 24 degrees C, processing was slowed but formylpeptide-receptor complexes proceeded through a similar series of compartments. The t1/2 for formylpeptide uptake at 37 degrees C was 15-20 s, whereas at 24 degrees C the t 1/2 was approximately 10 min. No uptake was observed at 15 degrees C. The distinctive characteristics of formylpeptide binding and receptor-complex uptake seen here may be essential in initiating and maintaining continued chemotactic responsiveness. PMID- 2515198 TI - Localization of intracellular proteins at acetylcholine receptor clusters induced by electric fields in Xenopus muscle cells. AB - Electric fields cause acetylcholine receptor (AChR) patches to form on the cathodal sides of cultured muscle cells. These patches are stable for several hours following cessation of an electric field treatment, indicating that the receptors are anchored to the cluster sites. Furthermore, at the ultrastructural level, AChR patches induced by electric fields are marked by an accumulation of extracellular matrix material and a sarcolemmal density. Thus, these AChR patches are similar to those induced by other stimuli, including nerve, polycation-coated beads, and the tissue culture substratum. Proteins that may be involved in anchoring AChRs have been colocalized with AChR patches induced by the latter three stimuli, but not at AChR patches induced by electric fields. In this study, we demonstrate that three putative anchoring proteins, 43K (K = 10(3) Mr) protein, 58K protein and talin, are associated with field-induced AChR patches. We also show that these proteins persist at field-induced AChR patches following removal of the field, indicating that they are stabilized at the AChR patch. Our data are consistent with the possibility that these proteins contribute to the stabilization of AChRs at patches induced by the electric field. Since 43K, 58K and talin are intracellular proteins, and therefore could not undergo field induced lateral electrophoresis, our observations support the notion that the electric field triggers the formation of an AChR-stabilizing specialization. PMID- 2515199 TI - Determination of fluvoxamine in human plasma by high-performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection. PMID- 2515200 TI - High-performance liquid chromatographic analysis of N,N',N" triethylenethiophosphoramide in human plasma. PMID- 2515201 TI - High-performance liquid chromatographic determination of mitomycin C in rat and human plasma and urine. PMID- 2515202 TI - Simultaneous determination of methylprednisolone and methylprednisolone 21-[8 [methyl-(2-sulfoethyl)amino]-8-oxooctanoate] sodium salt in human urine by high performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection. AB - A reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatographic assay with ultraviolet detection at 243 nm has been developed for the quantitative determination of methylprednisolone (MP) and methylprednisolone 21-[8-[methyl-(2-sulfoethyl)amino] 8-oxooctanoate] sodium salt (MPSO) in human urine following therapeutic doses in humans. The assay procedure involves stabilization of urine samples by addition of disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (Na2EDTA) and ion-pair extractions of MPSO using tetraethylammonium chloride (TEACl) as the counter ion. After extracting both drugs and internal standard into chloroform, the extract was evaporated to dryness under nitrogen. The resulting residue was reconstituted in 200-500 microliters of mobile phase and chromatographed on an IBM C18 reversed phase column (5 microns). The mobile phase was a mixture of water-acetonitrile isopropanol (71.2:18.8:10.0, v/v) containing 75 microliters of 0.1 M hydrochloric acid and 0.450 g of TEACl per liter. Propyl p-hydroxybenzoate was used as an internal standard. The extraction efficiencies of MP and MPSO were greater than 90% using the ion-pairing agent TEACl. The chromatographic responses were linear up to about 200 micrograms/ml for MP and 80 micrograms/ml for MPSO and had sufficient precision and accuracy to provide quantitative data from human urine. The assay detection limit was about 8 ng/ml for MP and 25 ng/ml for MPSO in human urine. Stability studies in urine indicated that without Na2EDTA stabilization and at room temperature, rapid degradation of MPSO occurred in urine. Addition of EDTA to the urine specimen and storage at -70 degrees C increased the stability of MPSO, and little or no degradation was observed in urine stored for more than 60 days. The method has been used in the simultaneous determination of MP and MPSO in urine specimens obtained from a single-dose tolerance study of MPSO in normal male volunteers. PMID- 2515203 TI - High-performance liquid chromatographic technique for the rapid determination of histamine in both the plasma and cellular components of blood. PMID- 2515205 TI - Increasing 125I-human chorionic gonadotrophin specific binding in human granulosa cells by follicle-stimulating hormone and follicular fluid. AB - It has been reported that success at in-vitro fertilization/embryo transfer (IVF/ET) treatment is increased by follicular fluid (FF) re-injected into the abdomen. In the present study a possible direct effect of FF on human granulosa cell (GC) progesterone (P4) secretion and LH/human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) receptor content was studied in the presence and absence of FSH. Human GC cultured for 8 days in medium alone showed a 40-fold decrease in P4 secretion. Addition of human FSH increased P4 secretion and [125I]HCG specific binding by 12 and 8-fold, respectively, compared to human GC cultured in medium alone. The effect of FF was evaluated in a heterologous system by the addition of FF from large antral porcine follicles (LFF) to human GC in culture. The decline in human GC-P4 secretion after 8 days of culture was not altered by either porcine serum alone or porcine LFF alone. However, the concomitant addition of FSH and LFF significantly increased [125I]HCG specific binding, but did not alter the FSH induced P4 secretion when both parameters were compared to GC cultured in FSH + porcine serum. Furthermore, the addition of HCG alone significantly increased P4 secretion 33- and 70-fold in GC pre-cultured with either FSH alone or FSH + LFF respectively compared with the stimulatory effect of HCG on GC pre-cultured in medium alone. These results may suggest that FSH and LFF increase the functional content of LH/HCG receptor in luteinized human GC. PMID- 2515204 TI - An amplified ELISA for the detection of parvovirus B19 IgM using monoclonal antibody to FITC. AB - A new M-antibody capture ELISA for the detection of specific IgM against parvovirus B19 is described. The test uses a monoclonal anti-fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) antibody conjugated to horseradish peroxidase to amplify the positive reactions. Serum samples (N = 823) submitted for B19 IgM assay were tested in parallel in the new ELISA and the standard B19 M-antibody capture radioimmunoassay (MACRIA) test. By both tests B19 IgM was detected in 38 (4.6%) samples, and not detected in 771 (94%) samples. One sample was positive in the ELISA test but negative in the RIA and of the 13 sera giving 'equivocal' results in the MACRIA, 6 were positive and 7 negative. If the RIA equivocal results were excluded, the ELISA showed 100% (38/38) sensitivity and 99.9% (771/772) specificity compared to the MACRIA test. The B19 IgM ELISA is a sensitive and specific test with better discrimination between anti B19 IgM positive and negative specimens than MACRIA. PMID- 2515206 TI - TRH test before, during, and after long-term danazol treatment in patients with endometriosis. AB - Ten patients suffering from endometriosis were treated with danazol at a dose of 200 mg three times daily for 6 months. A thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) test was carried out in the follicular phase before treatment, at the sixth month of treatment and after reappearance of the second menses. There was no statistically significant change in the basal level of serum thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) during danazol treatment. On the contrary, the response of serum TSH in the TRH test was significantly higher during danazol treatment than before or after treatment. Our results support the view that danazol may reduce the secretion of hypothalamic TRH. PMID- 2515207 TI - Intrauterine insemination and controlled ovarian hyperstimulation in cycles before GIFT. AB - We have combined intrauterine insemination (IUI) and controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH), for the treatment of infertility due to different aetiologies, prior to performing GIFT. To date, we have treated 186 patients over a total of 489 cycles. The mean age of the patients was 34.1 +/- 4 years and the mean duration of infertility was 4.8 +/- 2.8 years. Follicular development was induced with human menopausal gonatrophin (HMG). Patients were monitored using serum oestradiol determinations and ovarian ultrasound. Two intrauterine inseminations were performed 12 and 36 h after HCG injection. Semen samples were prepared utilizing one of two techniques, swim-up or Percoll gradient. A total of 33 pregnancies have occurred, the gross pregnancy rate being 17.7% per patient and 6.7% per cycle. The cumulative pregnancy rate was 30%. Thirty-one pregnancies (94%) occurred within the first four cycles of treatment. During the same period of time, the pregnancy rate per cycle in patients treated with gamete intra Fallopian transfer (GIFT) was 32.9%. Our data suggest that IUI combined with COH can result in pregnancy in a significant proportion of patients, but that the efficiency per cycle of the technique is significantly lower than GIFT. PMID- 2515208 TI - Time of insemination and its effect on in-vitro fertilization, cleavage and pregnancy rates in GnRH agonist/HMG-stimulated cycles. AB - In this prospective study, we compared the effect of delayed inseminations on fertilization, cleavage and pregnancy rates in two groups of patients. In one group, the ovarian stimulation was performed with a clomiphene citrate/human menopausal gonadotrophin/human chorionic gonadotrophin (CC/HMG/HCG) protocol. The other group was pre-treated with gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) and ovarian stimulation was carried out with an HMG/HCG protocol. Under both protocols, a delay of 2, 4 or 6 h in insemination showed no significant differences in the fertilization, cleavage or pregnancy rates. To find out which type of oocyte has the potential for better fertilization, cleavage and implantation, a simple oocyte classification scheme is proposed. In the GnRHa/HMG group, 9% post-mature, 90% mature and only 1% immature oocytes were retrieved. The post-mature oocytes showed a tendency towards reduced fertilization when insemination was delayed. The mature and slightly immature oocytes fertilized equally well when spermatozoa were added 2, 4 or 6 h after retrieval. Similarly, no significant difference was observed in the cleavage (80%) or fragmentation (20%) rates of these oocytes. The pregnancy rates after inseminations delayed for 2, 4 and 6 h were 14, 27 and 26%, respectively. Though these figures were not statistically significant, the 4- and 6-h groups in both the IVF and zygote intra Fallopian transfer treatments showed a slightly improved pregnancy rate compared to the 2-h group. An insemination delay of 4 h is advocated on a routine basis. PMID- 2515209 TI - Timed oocyte collection in an assisted conception programme using GnRH analogue. AB - Three-hundred-and-twenty-five patients on an assisted conception programme underwent 378 cycles of oocyte retrieval (OPU) following ovarian stimulation using a GnRH analogue and human menopausal gonadotrophins (HMG), a regimen which allows programmed cycles and delayed oocyte retrieval. Eighteen cycles were excluded (failed OPU in three and failure of fertilization in 15). In 360 cycles, patients completed their treatment with either in-vitro fertilization/embryo transfer (IVF/ET) (116) or gamete intra-Fallopian transfer (GIFT) (244), of which 241 took place at the normal time and 119 were delayed for 24 h or more to avoid weekend operating. The overall pregnancy rate per OPU was 29.5%, with the IVF group being 24.1% and the GIFT group being 32.8%. In the group of patients in whom OPU was delayed, the pregnancy rate was significantly higher in each sub group than in the corresponding non-delayed sub-group (overall, 37.0 versus 25.7%; IVF/ET, 38.5 versus 16.9%; GIFT, 36.3 versus 31.1%). There was a significantly higher number of oocytes collected, gametes/embryos transferred in the group whose OPU had been delayed. In patients receiving GnRH analogue and HMG for ovarian stimulation, delaying oocyte retrieval is not harmful, may result in an improved outcome and allows OPU to be performed on routine operating lists. This facility, together with the improved pregnancy rates associated with this protocol of ovarian stimulation should improve the cost-effectiveness of assisted conception programmes. PMID- 2515210 TI - The use of human follicular fluid in gamete intra-fallopian transfer. AB - We undertook a prospective study to compare our gamete intra-Fallopian transfer (GIFT) procedure with or without the use of human follicular fluid (FF) as a constituent for the final spermatozoal suspension and as the tubal transfer medium for both eggs and spermatozoa. We routinely perform an intrauterine and intracervical insemination (IUI and ICI) following GIFT, and FF or culture medium was used accordingly as a constituent in this spermatozoal suspension also. When FF was used (26 cycles), clear FF taken from the first egg-bearing follicle was sterilized by micropore filtration, gassed with 5% CO2 in air and warmed to 37 degrees C. This FF was then used to dilute the spermatozoal suspension (50:50, v/v) for both tubal, uterine and cervical inseminations at least 30 min before transfer, and all transferable eggs were placed into this FF before transfer. Alternatively (30 control cycles), eggs and spermatozoa were prepared and transferred in Earle's medium supplemented with 10% pooled fetal cord serum. The FF and control patient groups were relatively homogeneous, with no statistically significant differences in ovarian response, oocyte retrieval or transfer or seminal profiles. The outcome of the GIFT procedures using FF or culture medium showed no significant advantage of the use of FF. The clinical pregnancy rate was similar in both groups: 50% (15/30) control; 46.2% (12/26) FF. PMID- 2515211 TI - Comparison of HMG/HCG superovulation for AID with or without superactive GnRH agonist. AB - New methods of ovulation induction have been discovered and perfected in recent years. Among others, gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists are being used increasingly in the treatment of ovulatory infertility. In a prospective study, 24 women undergoing artificial insemination with donor sperm (AID) and facing failure of treatment because of ovulation disorders, were treated with human menopausal gonadotrophin/human chorionic gonadotrophin (HMG/HCG) superovulation with or without pituitary densensitization using a superactive luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) agonist, buserelin (BUS), Suprefact (Hoechst, Frankfurt a/Main, FRG). In 86 cycles stimulated with HMG/HCG no pregnancy occurred, whereas 12 pregnancies occurred in the same group of patients after a total of 43 BUS/HMG/HCG stimulation cycles. Superactive LHRH agonists have a definite place in the treatment of AID patients presenting with refractory ovulation disorders and/or luteal insufficiency. PMID- 2515212 TI - Experience with a new fixed-stimulation protocol without hormone determinations for programmed oocyte retrieval for in-vitro fertilization. AB - A new fixed schedule of ovarian stimulation for in-vitro fertilization (IVF) was developed that is not only simpler and easier to handle for the patients but also gives a better fertilization and pregnancy rate. The period and the start of stimulation is shifted by means of a contraceptive pill in such a way that stimulation is generally started on a Sunday. The patient takes clomiphene, (100 mg) for 5 days and prednisolone (7.5 mg) for 30 days to suppress possible exaggerated adrenal androgens, and receives 150 IU human menopausal gonadotrophin (HMG) i.m. every other day from her doctor at home. From the 8th day of stimulation onwards follicular growth is registered by daily ultrasound at the IVF centre. A dose of 5000 IU human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) is given when the dominant follicle exceeds 18 mm diameter. Blood sampling for hormone estimations is not necessary and only one sample of urine is needed for the luteinizing hormone (LH) estimation before HCG. In comparison to clomiphene only, clomiphene plus HMG/follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and HMG/FSH only, this protocol resulted in a significantly higher fertilization and pregnancy rate per follicular puncture. The rate of abortions and extrauterine pregnancies, on the other hand, was decreased. When comparing repetitive IVF cycles with the first IVF cycle, a significant reduction of oocytes in repetitions was found, while there was no difference found in the number of fertilized eggs. The pregnancy rate, on the other hand, was increased in the repeat-cycles.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515213 TI - Biochemical predictors of short term mortality in elderly residents of chronic care institutions. AB - A survey of 208 elderly subjects living in four long term care institutions was undertaken over three months to identify nutritional and other variables that could be used to predict mortality during the subsequent three months. There were 58 men (mean age (SD) 75.6 (9.6) years) and 150 women (79.5 (8.4) years). Twenty nine subjects died (12 men and 17 women) within three months of completing the study. Twenty eight out of 57 variables differed significantly between those who died and those who survived. Subjects who died had lower systolic blood pressure, poorer intake of protein calories, lower concentrations of haemoglobin, plasma retinol, zinc, total cholesterol, and higher albumin adjusted plasma calcium concentrations. Stepwise regression analysis identified five variables that predicted mortality: plasma fructosamine; transferrin; glycosylated haemoglobin; prealbumin; and haemoglobin. The sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values of the discriminant function score using 0 as the demarcation between survivors and non-survivors were 75%, 97%, and 95%, respectively. This score could therefore be used to identify those most in need of nutritional support. PMID- 2515214 TI - Serological screening tests for syphilis in pregnancy: results of a five year study (1983-87) in the Oxford region. AB - Between 1983 and 1987, 62 out of 76519 pregnancies in 51 mothers had a positive miniaturised Treponema pallidum haemagglutination assay (TPHA) test--1 in 1234, or 0.81 per 1000 births. About two thirds of these mothers had syphilis and the remainder non-venereal treponematoses such as yaws or pinta. Antenatal screening identified 13 patients with previously unknown acquired syphilis, 11 of whom were given antibiotics during pregnancy. There were six fetal losses among the 62 TPHA positive pregnancies, but none had evidence of congenital syphilis. No live born child in this study group showed stigmata of congenital syphilis. It is concluded that despite the current low incidence of syphilis in the United Kingdom it is imperative to continue antenatal serological screening and to emphasise the importance of early adequate treatment of the infection. PMID- 2515216 TI - M(III)-facilitated recovery and concentration of enzymes from mesophilic and thermophilic organisms. AB - Six enzymes isolated from organisms of widely differing thermal growth optima were flocculated from solution at constant pH by addition of Fe(III) solution. In all cases the enzyme concentration was 1 g.l-1 or less. Flocculation profiles were generated for each enzyme over a range of Fe(III) levels. The concentrated enzymes were recovered from the Fe(III)/protein complex by solubilisation with citrate and dithionite followed by precipitation with ammonium sulphate. In all cases approximately 70-80% enzyme recovery was achieved. Enzyme thermal stability did not appear to be important and protein concentration had no effect on the efficiency of enzyme recovery over the range of 0.01-1 g.l-1. Approximately 30 mmol Fe(III)/l of enzyme solution facilitated optimal enzyme recovery for all solutions studied. For protein concentrations up to 1 g.l-1 a 100-fold enzyme concentration factor can be expected. PMID- 2515215 TI - Sustained high-dose nitroglycerin transcutaneous patch therapy in angina pectoris: evidence for attenuation of effect over time. AB - The safety and efficacy of using continuous high-dose transcutaneous nitroglycerin in doses up to 100 mg/24 hours in chronic stable angina was assessed in 20 patients using serial treadmill testing. Patients had first to show a response to sublingual nitroglycerin with a 20% improvement in exercise time. All patients were then titrated with 20 mg (40 cm2), 60 mg (120 cm2), 80 mg (160 cm2) or 100 mg (200 cm2) patches, until intolerable headache in association with a 10 mmHg reduction in blood pressure and a ten-beat increment in heart rate. Drug was then discontinued for 2 days and patients underwent three repeat stress tests to reestablish a consistent drug-free baseline. Patients were then randomized in double-blind fashion to receive either active patch (N = 11) in previous titration dose or placebo patch (N = 9), with treadmill tests performed at 0 (1 hour after previous patch removal), 4, and 24 hours after patch application at baseline and at weeks 1 and 2. Venous blood was obtained for measurement of plasma nitroglycerin levels. After the first 24 hours of active patch therapy, there was a significant reduction in systolic blood pressure (P = .05), a significant increase in heart rate (P = .01), and a minor increase in exercise tolerance (P = .06) compared to placebo. At weeks 1 and 2, there was an attenuation of drug effect in all of these parameters. Plasma nitroglycerin levels demonstrated consistently high plasma levels over each 24-hour dosing interval, on day 1, week 1, and week 2.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515217 TI - A reexamination of the melanin formation assay of tyrosinase and an extension to estimate phaeomelanin formation. AB - This paper presents some modifications of the melanin formation assay for tyrosinase from the point of view of both eu- and phaeomelanosynthesis. On the one hand, eumelanosynthesis can be estimated using neutral paper filters, such as the 3MM Whatman filters so far employed. The main advantages of this sort of paper are the very low blank values obtained in the absence of tyrosinase and its greater mechanical resistance in the successive washing steps. It is shown that the sensitivity of the assay can be enhanced by the addition of 1 mM Ni(II) to the incubation mixture or of NaOH to stop the enzymatic reaction and allow the incorporation of indolic intermediates into the polymer. Furthermore, the accuracy is also enhanced by the proposed modifications, since all reactions from dopaquinone are standardized, and the assay becomes only dependent on the tyrosinase activity. On the other hand, phaeomelanosynthesis cannot be estimated using neutral paper because of the slow rate of polymerization of the intermediates and the poor absorption of thiol-dopa conjugates to this kind of paper. It is shown that synthesis of this type of melanin can be estimated in the presence of glutathione by means of a cationic filter paper and by washing the excess of the radioactive substrate with distilled water instead of acidic media. Thus, the assay may be adapted to measure eu- or phaeomelanosynthetic activity by introducing slight modifications. This assay must be used with caution if detergent-solubilized tyrosinase is used, because detergents strongly inhibit melanin absorption to paper filters. PMID- 2515218 TI - Interaction of L-dopa and GHRH on GH secretion in normal men. AB - To determine how L-dopa stimulates GH secretion, we investigated its interaction with GHRH in vivo. Six normal men were studied on 4 occasions: 1) L-dopa-TRH: 500 mg L-dopa orally followed by 200 micrograms TRH 60 min later; 2) L-dopa-GHRH-TRH: 100 micrograms GHRH 1-44 iv 30 min after L-dopa followed by 200 micrograms TRH iv; 3) GHRH-TRH: 100 micrograms GHRH iv at 0 min, 30 min later 200 micrograms TRH iv; 4) TRH test: 200 micrograms TRH iv as a bolus. After L-dopa-TRH GH-levels increased significantly from 0.6 micrograms/l to 25.8 +/- 9.6 (SE) micrograms/l at 60 min. Only a slight TSH and no PRL increase was observed after L-dopa-TRH. After L-dopa-GHRH-TRH the GH-increase was significantly higher (45.7 +/- 11.1 micrograms/l) compared to L-dopa-TRH alone. GHRH-TRH increased GH-levels to 52.5 +/- 12.1 micrograms/l, which was not significantly different from the GH-levels obtained when L-dopa-GHRH-TRH were given. TRH increased serum TSH and PRL to 6.3 +/- 0.7 microU/ml and 715 +/- 136 microU/ml, respectively, which was significantly higher compared to the TSH responses after L-dopa-TRH. The PRL and TSH increase after TRH only was also higher (TSH-max: 5.7 +/- 0.5 microU/ml; PRL max: 899 +/- 154 microU/ml) compared to the TSH and PRL responses after L-dopa TRH. Our results show that the combination of L-dopa with GHRH leads to the same GH response as GHRH only. However, both responses are significantly higher than the one after L-dopa alone.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515219 TI - Effect of the potentiation of cholinergic activity on the variability in individual GH response to GH-releasing hormone. AB - In man the GH response to GHRH is highly variable and some normal subjects may be completely unresponsive to the neuropeptide. On the other hand, the potentiation of cholinergic activity by pyridostigmine (PD), a cholinesterase inhibitor, increases the GH response to GHRH, probably by inhibiting somatostatin release. The aim of this study was to assess the existence of intraindividual variability in the GH response to GHRH and verify the effects of PD treatment on inter- and intraindividual variability. Twenty normal adults (17 M and 3 F) and 10 normal prepubertal children (9 M and 1 F) underwent 2-5 administrations of 1 micrograms/kg GHRH on different days. Seven adults and all children also underwent 1-5 other tests in which GHRH was preceded (60 min before) by oral PD (120 mg in adults and 60 mg in children). The GH responses to GHRH were highly variable, not only within subjects but also in the same subject on different occasions (peak range; adults: 0.4-49.0 ng/ml; children: 2.4-50.0 ng/ml). PD always markedly increased the GH response to GHRH, even unmasking this response in 3 adults and 4 children hyporesponsive to the neuropeptide alone. However, the variability in the GH response was still present (adults: 27.2-108.5 ng/ml; children: 25.0-144.0 ng/ml), though reduced (adults: p = 0.0005; children: p = 0.0204). These data indicate that: i. A great inter- and intraindividual variability in the GH response to GHRH is present.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515220 TI - [Adjuvant treatment of tubal surgery. Randomized prospective study of systemically administered corticoids and noxythiolin]. AB - The effectiveness of systemic corticosteroids in the prevention of adhesion formation and reformation has been recently questioned, on the grounds of non randomized studies. Noxythiolin has been tried in animal experiments, but never in the human. In this paper, a randomized study of the effect of dexamethasone and/or noxythiolin versus no treatment has been conducted by the Group d'Etude des Adherences Pelviennes. 126 patients have been operated upon by microsurgery (salpingectomy and/or salpingolysis). Adhesions have been assessed by a score derived from the American Fertility Society endometriosis classification, before operation and by laparoscopy 3 to 6 months later. The mean improvement on adhesion score was 23.2 in the corticosteroid treated group, 19.3 in the noxythiolin group, 15.7 in the noxythiolin and corticosteroid group, 10.2 in the control group. 40% of patients (13 out of 32) in the corticosteroid group, versus 26% (5 out of 29) in the noxythiolin and corticosteroid group and 19% (6 out of 31) in the control group (p less than 0.02) became pregnant. No adverse effect has been noted. These results support the use of corticosteroids in infertility surgery. PMID- 2515221 TI - Pituitary-thyroid axis sensitivity and neonatal changes in plasma iodothyronine, thyreostimulin and cortisol levels in the preterm lamb: comparison of two experimental models. AB - The influence of a 7 days prematurity, induced by oestrogen or dexamethasone injection to the mothers, on neonatal changes in plasma T4, T3, reverse T3 (rT3), TSH and cortisol levels was studied in 6 full term, 6 oestrogen preterm and 6 dexamethasone preterm lambs. In addition, the pituitary-thyroid axis sensitivity was assessed by the magnitude of the response to TRH administration. At birth, plasma cortisol and T3 levels, as the value of the T3/T4 ratio, were significantly lower in the two groups of preterm lambs than in full term animals; however, whereas plasma T3 concentrations and values of the T3/T4 ratio remained low in oestrogen lambs, they were quickly restored and elevated T3 levels associated to high T4 levels could be even observed in dexamethasone lambs; in this last group, these abrupt changes could be a consequence of raised TSH plasma concentrations recorded at birth. Moreover, if plasma rT3 levels and values of the rT3/T4 ratio were similar during the first hours of life in dexamethasone and full-term lambs, they were significantly higher in oestrogen animals. The responsiveness of the pituitary-thyroid axis to TRH was normal in dexamethasone animals, but was significantly enhanced in oestrogen ones, probably as a consequence of low T3 levels. PMID- 2515223 TI - Caregiving. PMID- 2515222 TI - Morphometric analyses of the effects of thyrotrophin releasing hormone and cortisol on the lungs of fetal sheep. AB - Morphometric analyses of ovine fetal lung parenchyma were undertaken in order to elucidate the roles of pituitary, thyroid and adrenocortical hormones in promoting the structural changes underlying the increased distensibility and stability present in mature fetal lungs. Twenty-six Romney fetuses were treated with either cortisol for 84 h from 125 days (4), pulsatile TRH for 6.5 days from 122 days (4), cortisol and TRH (12), or 0.9% NaCl solution (6). The left lungs were used for physiological studies (distensibility, V40) and the right lungs were prepared for electron microscopy. Using 32 regions of lung parenchyma per fetus, volume density, surface density and arithmetic mean thickness of the alveolar walls were calculated using point and intersection counts. Of the three regimens, treatment with TRH + cortisol (exposure to raised concentrations of cortisol, T3 and prolactin) induced significantly greater lung distensibility, the largest potential alveolar air space (62% of the parenchyma), the greatest alveolar surface area (113.7 mm2/mm3 x 10(-3)) and the thinnest alveolar walls (6.7 microns). We conclude that cortisol, T3 and prolactin act synergistically to promote maturational changes in the alveolar wall. While cortisol plays the major role, T3 and prolactin enhance the ability of the immature lung to respond to the cortisol. PMID- 2515224 TI - [A study on immunity in tsutsugamushi disease]. AB - The immune response in human tsutsugamushi disease (scrub typhus) was studied. Anti-rickettsial activity of sera, peripheral mononuclear cells and their culture supernatants from patients on in vitro growth of Rickettsia tsutsugamushi proliferating in normal human peripheral macrophages was examined. The results obtained were as follows. 1) Sera from patients at the early convalescent stage, which exhibited high antibody titers against R. tsutsugamushi, effectively inhibited their growth in macrophages. 2) Sera from patients after a long period from the onset showed low antibody titers and did not inhibit rickettsial growth. 3) Mononuclear cells and T cell enriched fractions suppressed rickettsial growth when they were obtained from the patients at the early convalescent stage and even after as long as 3.5 years from the onset. 4) The culture supernatants of the T cell-enriched fractions which were collected from the patients mentioned above, exhibited a similar antirickettsial activity. These findings indicate that sensitized T lymphocytes and macrophages might play a fundamental role in immunological defense mechanism in tsutsugamushi disease. And the results obtained in our experiments are compatible with those previously reported in experimental scrub typhus in laboratory animals such as mice and monkeys. PMID- 2515225 TI - In vitro effect of menfegol on Neisseria gonorrhoeae. AB - Bacteriostatic and bactericidal effect of Menfegol, which has been used as a spermicide, on Neisseria gonorrhoeae was investigated in vitro. The distribution of the MICs of N. gonorrhoeae to Menfegol consisted of 2 groups. Resistant strains showed the MICs of more than 3200 micrograms/ml while the MICs of sensitive strains were less than or equal to 200 micrograms/ml. When the resistant strains were suspended in several concentrations of Menfegol and were incubated at 35 degrees C, no concentrations inactivated gonococci completely. However, the number of organisms was remarkably decreased within 30 minutes. PMID- 2515226 TI - [Inhibitory effect of erythromycin on elastase producing ability of Pseudomonas aeruginosa]. PMID- 2515228 TI - [Protective effects of Mycoplasma pneumoniae live vaccine or its hyperimmune serum on the experimental infection in mice]. AB - SPF-BALB/c mice in which Mycoplasma pneumoniae cell proliferation accompanied by immunological responses had been confirmed, were immunized with live vaccines or with hyperimmune sera of M. pneumoniae FH-P24 and its mutant strains (P24-S1, P24 S11), were then assayed for infection-protection. Eight weeks after the last vaccination, 70 percent protection was obtained by inoculation once or twice with live FH-P24 and P24-S1 vaccines, respectively. After 12 weeks, 80% protection was achieved by FH-P24 and 60% by P24-S1 live vaccine, while protectivity was not obtained by P24-S11 live vaccine. In case of passively immunized mice, IgG antibody titers and protective effect were not always found to be parallel. Namely, mice which were passively immunized with anti-FH-P24 serum, showed only 20% protection. However to get the above results, it was necessary that the anti mutant strain serum be ten times higher than anti-FH-P24 serum in IgG titer. In the immunoblot analysis, sera from patients infected with M. pneumoniae immunoblotted the 168-KDa (P1 protein) and the 85-KDa protein of FH-P24 and P24 S1, but not the 85-KDa protein of P24-S11. PMID- 2515227 TI - [The first case of tsutsugamushi disease in 20 years infected in a rural region of Osaka]. AB - Recently cases of tsutsugamushi disease have been reported in various areas in Japan. We met a case infected in a rural area, Sennan of Osaka prefecture. The patient suffered from high fever, left axillary lymphadenitis. At his left elbow an eschar was detected, so tsutsugamushi disease was suspected, despite no rash nor CRP elevation. By indirect immunofluorescence (IF) method, the diagnosis was confirmed. At an early stage (the fifth day after onset) he was followed by probable DIC, remitted successfully by administration of minocycline. For 20 years tsutsugamushi disease has not been reported in Osaka prefecture. This case is the second one and the first child case in Wakayama prefecture. Epidemiologic assessments may need to be investigated in Osaka and Wakayama Prefecture. PMID- 2515229 TI - [Mycoplasma pneumoniae isolation and IHA antibody detection in patients with M. pneumoniae infection]. AB - Throat swab culture was compared with indirect hemagglutination (IHA) antibody detection for diagnosis of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection. These two methods were tried on the patients several times for a long term after onset of the disease. For five years from 1982 to 1986 in Kanagawa prefecture, a total of 566 patients were tested and 141 (25%) were diagnosed as M. pneumoniae infection by either of the two test methods. Both culture and antibody detection were performed on 110 patients out of 141, revealing that 96 patients (87%) were positive by culture and 89 (81%) were positive by antibody detection. Most of the patients with M. pneumoniae infection showed positive culture within a week after onset of the disease, and half of the patients treated with antibiotics such as macrolides or tetracyclines showed positive for two or three months after the onset. Positive rate of IHA antibody detection in the patients with M. pneumoniae infection was 43% within a week after onset of the disease and reached the maximum (92%) in 15 to 21 days after the onset. The rate did not decrease to less than 70% three months after the onset. Geometric mean titer of the antibody reached the maximum at the same time as the antibody positive rate. Both antibody positive rate and geometric mean titer declined significantly four months after the onset. In general, IHA antibody of infants with M. pneumoniae infection increased satisfactorily day by day after onset of the disease. Nine percent of the patient with M. pneumoniae infection developed otitis media with effusion, and M. pneumoniae was isolated from two of six patient effusions. PMID- 2515230 TI - [Study of the prophylactic effect of ubenimex on experimental pyelonephritis induced by Pseudomonas in neutropenic mice]. AB - We investigated the prophylactic effect of Ubenimex on mice with ascending pyelonephritis induced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (G-group). This experimental model was established by a two course administration of cyclophosphamide, so that it kept the mice in a neutropenic status (around 2000 white blood cells/mm3) from the time of infection to the time of sacrifice. The cyclophosphamide-treated group increased their susceptibility more than the control group. In the cyclophosphamide-treated group, the prophylactic administration of Ubenimex (100 micrograms/day/mouse) did not produce significant decreases of infection-induced mortality rate, but yielded a lower incidence of infection than of saline alone. Administration of Ubenimex was not able to increase the number of neutrophils during the experiment. An investigation of the bactericidal capacity of peritoneal exudating neutrophils revealed that Ubenimex prophylactic administration accelerated its capacity, although cyclophosphamide alone did not. These results suggest that Ubenimex has a prophylactic effect on bacterial infection in neutropenic mice, and that this effect, in part, depends upon the acceleration of bactericidal capacity of neutrophils produced by Ubenimex. PMID- 2515231 TI - [Cytotoxin of Pseudomonas aeruginosa]. PMID- 2515232 TI - [Effects of thyrotropin-releasing hormone on neurologic recovery and biogenic amine metabolites of cerebrospinal fluid in spinal disorders]. AB - The pharmacological effects of the thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) in relation to biogenic amine metabolism in cerebrospinal fluid were examined in 35 patients with various spinal disorders. Neurologic conditions before and after TRH treatment were evaluated using subjective symptoms and Frankel's classification. Biogenic amine metabolism in cerebrospinal fluid was examined before and after TRH treatment measuring the metabolites by high performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection. Significant decreases in metabolites of norepinephrine and dopamine were seen in most cases of spinal disorders. The amount of serotonin metabolite, however, was not changed. In many acute cases, the neurologic condition was improved, and a significant increase in the dopamine metabolite was seen in the improved cases after TRH treatment. In chronic cases, TRH treatment was not as effective as in acute cases. TRH was therefore thought to be an effective agent in the treatment of acute spinal disorders. When an increase in the dopamine metabolite is seen after TRH treatment, neurologic improvement would probably be expected. PMID- 2515233 TI - [Role of interleukin 2 and interferon gamma in induction of activated natural killer cells by the streptococcal preparation OK432]. AB - The natural killer (NK) cell mediated cytotoxicity to syngeneic tumor cells can be augmented by in vivo priming and subsequent in vitro challenge with the streptococcal preparation OK432. Supernatants of coculture of spleen cells with OK432 contained Interleukin 2 (IL-2) and Interferon (IFN), mainly IFN-gamma. As the anti-mouse IFN-gamma monoclonal antibody but not anti-mouse IFN-alpha antibody inhibited the induction of activated NK cells with OK432, the IFN-gamma participated in this response. The incubated spleen cells with IL-2 receptors increased with OK432 treatment by flow cytometry, and the NK cell and IFN activities of supernatants were also abrogated by the treatment with anti-mouse IL-2 receptor monoclonal antibody to block the interaction between IL-2 and these receptors of effector cells. By panning method, it was clarified that the incubated spleen cells with IL-2 receptors were responsible for the production of IFN-r. These results suggest that IL-2 plays a major role to induce the activated NK cells from murine spleen cells primed in vivo and subsequently challenged in vitro with OK432, by the production of IFN-gamma. PMID- 2515234 TI - Effectiveness of short pituitary suppression with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist leuprolide during induction of ovulation for in vitro fertilization. AB - A short suppression regimen with daily 0.5 mg leuprolide commencing the first day of in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles was evaluated in 10 women who previously underwent similar IVF cycle without suppression. Induction of ovulation, oocyte retrieval, incubation, and embryo transfer were similar in all the cycles. Assessment included the amount of human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) used, length of stimulation, serum estradiol and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, number of oocytes retrieved and their quality, cleavage rate, and number of embryos. The results showed that when leuprolide was used, no endogenous LH surge was detected, and there was a significant increase in hMG injected, from 19.0 +/- 5.8 to 34.4 +/- 17 ampoules, and in estradiol levels, from 1276 +/- 470 to 2618 +/- 1084 pg/ml (mean +/- SD). In addition, there was an increase in the total oocytes retrieved from 54 to 94, their cleavage rate from 59 to 86%, and the number of embryos from 24 to 70 in the suppressed cycle. No deleterious effects were observed and there were two pregnancies in this group. PMID- 2515236 TI - Ovarian hyperstimulation associated with the sole use of leuprolide for ovarian suppression. AB - An IVF patient who was placed on leuprolide therapy prior to ovulation induction to improve ovarian response developed moderate ovarian hyperstimulation from the sole use of the GnRH agonist. Clinicians should be aware of this possible outcome. PMID- 2515235 TI - Ovum donation by sisters in ovarian failure: simplified priming and early withdrawal of exogenous support. AB - Two cases of successful pregnancy and delivery by patients with ovarian failure are reported. In both cases ova were donated by the sister of the patient. A high degree of success (two pregnancies in three attempts) is discussed, as is the significance of simplified pretransfer "priming" and very early withdrawal of exogenous hormonal support. PMID- 2515237 TI - A comparative study of polydioxanone (PDS) and polyglactin 910 (Vicryl) in colonic anastomoses in rats. AB - The use of polyglactin 910 (Vicryl) in colonic anastomoses is theoretically undesirable because its short dissolution time and multifilament structure may lead to local sepsis and anastomotic leakage. We have compared Vicryl with a newly introduced monofilament absorbable suture which has a longer dissolution time than Vicryl. In a study of 98 rat colonic anastomoses no difference was found in complication rates or cellular reaction to the suture material between Vicryl and polydioxanone (PDS). The use of monofilament suture with longer dissolution time does not necessarily imply added security for colonic anastomoses. PMID- 2515238 TI - Lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase-induced transformation of HepG2 lipoproteins. AB - Previous studies with the human hepatoblastoma-derived HepG2 cell line in this laboratory have shown that these cells produce high density lipoproteins (HDL) that are similar to HDL isolated from patients with familial lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) deficiency. Experiments were, therefore, performed to determine whether HepG2 HDL could be transformed into plasma-like particles by incubation with LCAT. Concentrated HepG2 lipoproteins (d less than 1.235 g/ml) were incubated with purified LCAT or lipoprotein-deficient plasma (LPDP) for 4, 12, or 24 h at 37 degrees C. HDL isolated from control samples possessed excess phospholipid and unesterified cholesterol relative to plasma HDL and appeared as a mixed population of small spherical (7.8 +/- 1.3 nm) and larger discoidal particles (17.7 +/- 4.9 nm long axis) by electron microscopy. Nondenaturing gradient gel analysis (GGE) of control HDL showed major peaks banding at 7.4, 10.0, 11.1, 12.2, and 14.7 nm. Following 4-h LCAT and 12-h LPDP incubations, HepG2 HDL were mostly spherical by electron microscopy and showed major peaks at 10.1 and 8.1 nm (LCAT) and 10.0 and 8.4 nm (LPDP) by GGE; the particle size distribution was similar to that of plasma HDL. In addition, the chemical composition of HepG2 HDL at these incubation times approximated that of plasma HDL. Molar increases in HDL cholesteryl ester were accompanied by equimolar decreases in phospholipid and unesterified cholesterol. HepG2 low density lipoproteins (LDL) isolated from control samples showed a prominent protein band at 25.6 nm with GGE. Active LPDP or LCAT incubations resulted in the appearance of additional protein bands at 24.6 and 24.1 nm. No morphological changes were observed with electron microscopy. Chemical analysis indicated that the LDL cholesteryl ester formed was insufficient to account for phospholipid lost, suggesting that LCAT phospholipase activity occurred without concomitant cholesterol esterification. PMID- 2515240 TI - The economic productivity of the American care process. American medical care may be one of the nation's best bargains. PMID- 2515239 TI - Structure and expression of dog apolipoprotein A-I, E, and C-I mRNAs: implications for the evolution and functional constraints of apolipoprotein structure. AB - Dog apolipoprotein (apo) C-I, A-I, and E cDNA clones were identified in a dog liver cDNA library in lambda gt10 by hybridization to synthetic oligonucleotide probes with the corresponding human DNA sequences. The longest clone for each apolipoprotein was completely sequenced. The apoC-I cDNA sequence predicts a protein of 62 residue mature peptide preceded by a 26 amino acid signal peptide. The apoA-I cDNA sequence predicts a 242 residue mature peptide, a 6 residue pro segment, and an 18 residue signal peptide. The apoE cDNA, which lacks the signal peptide region, predicts a mature peptide of 291 amino acid residues. Slot blot hybridization of total RNA isolated from various dog tissues to dog apoC-I, A-I, and E cDNA probes indicates that apoC-I mRNA is detectable in liver only, apoA-I mRNA is present in liver and small intestine, though the concentration in the latter tissue is only approximately 15% of that in the liver, and apoE mRNA is present in multiple tissues including liver, jejunum, urinary bladder, ileum, colon, brain, kidney, spleen, pancreas, and testis with relative concentrations (%) of 100, 17.5, 7.5, 6.9, 5.9, 5.5, 5.0, 3.3, 1.0, and 1.0, respectively. These tissue distributions indicate that nascent lipoprotein particles produced in the dog small intestine would contain apoA-I and apoE but not apoC-I. The widespread tissue distribution of apoE mRNA indicates that like other mammals, peripheral synthesis of apoE contributes significantly to the total apoE pool in dog. We next compared the cDNA sequences among different vertebrate species for apoC-I (human and dog), A-I (human, rat, dog, rabbit and chicken), and E (human, rat, dog and rabbit) and calculated the rate of nucleotide substitution for each gene. Our results indicate that apoC-I has evolved rather rapidly and that on the whole, apoA-I is more conservative than apoE, contradictory to an earlier suggestion. ApoA-I is also more conservative than a region (residues 4204-4536) at the carboxyl-terminal portion, but less conservative than a region (residues 595-979) at the amino-terminal portion of apoB-100. Some regions in each of the apolipoproteins studied are better conserved than others and the rate of evolution of individual regions seems to be related to the stringency of functional requirements. Finally, we estimate that the human apoC-I pseudogene arose more than 35 million years ago, becoming nonfunctional soon after its formation. PMID- 2515241 TI - Very high water permeability in vasopressin-induced endocytic vesicles from toad urinary bladder. AB - The regulation of transepithelial water permeability in toad urinary bladder is believed to involve a cycling of endocytic vesicles containing water transporters between an intracellular compartment and the cell luminal membrane. Endocytic vesicles arising from luminal membrane were labeled selectively in the intact toad bladder with the impermeant fluid-phase markers 6-carboxyfluorescein (6CF) or fluorescein-dextran. A microsomal preparation containing labeled endocytic vesicles was prepared by cell scraping, homogenization, and differential centrifugation. Osmotic water permeability was measured by a stopped-flow fluorescence technique in which microsomes containing 50 mM mannitol, 5 mM K phosphate, pH 8.5 were subject to a 60-mM inwardly directed gradient of sucrose; the time course of endosome volume, representing osmotic water transport, was inferred from the time course of fluorescence self-quenching. Endocytic vesicles were prepared from toad bladders with hypoosmotic lumen solution treated with (group A) or without (group B) serosal vasopressin at 23 degrees C, and bladders in which endocytosis was inhibited by treatment with vasopressin at 0-2 degrees C (group C), or with vasopressin plus sodium azide at 23 degrees C (group D). Stopped-flow results in all four groups showed a slow rate of 6CF fluorescence decrease (time constants 1.0-1.7 s for exponential fit) indicating a component of nonendocytic 6CF entrapment into sealed vesicles. However, in vesicles from group A only, there was a very rapid 6CF fluorescence decrease (time constant 9.6 +/- 0.2 ms, SEM, 18 separate preparations) with an osmotic water permeability coefficient (Pf) of greater than 0.1 cm/s (18 degrees C) and activation energy of 3.9 +/- 0.8 kcal/mol (16 kJ/mol). Pf was inhibited reversibly by greater than 60% by 1 mM HgCl2. The rapid fluorescence decrease was absent in vesicles in groups B, C, and D. These results demonstrate the presence of functional water transporters in vasopressin-induced endocytic vesicles from toad bladder, supporting the hypothesis that water channels are cycled to and from the luminal membrane and providing a functional marker for the vasopressin-sensitive water channel. The calculated Pf in the vasopressin-induced endocytic vesicles is the highest Pf reported for any biological or artificial membrane. PMID- 2515242 TI - D-xylose utilization by Saccharomyces cerevisiae. AB - Although it is generally accepted that Saccharomyces cerevisiae is unable to assimilate D-xylose, four strains were found to utilize xylose aerobically at different efficiencies in the presence of a mixture of substrates. The degree of D-xylose utilization by S. cerevisiae ATCC 26602 depended upon the presence of other substrates or yeast extract. The greatest amount of xylose (up to 69% over 7 d) was utilized when sugar substrates such as D-ribose were co-metabolized. Much lower degrees of utilization occurred with co-metabolism of organic acids, polyols or ethanol. A mixture of D-glucose, D-ribose, D-raffinose, glycerol and D xylose resulted in greater xylose utilization than the presence of a single substrate and xylose. The absence of growth on a co-substrate alone did not prevent the utilization of xylose in its presence. Xylose was co-metabolized with ribose under anaerobic conditions but at a much slower rate than under aerobic conditions. When [14C]xylose was utilized in the presence of ribose under anaerobic conditions, the radioactive label was detected mainly in xylitol and not in the small amounts of ethanol produced. Under aerobic conditions the radioactive label was distributed between xylitol (91.3 +/- 0.8%), CO2 (2.6 +/- 2.3%) and biomass (1.7 +/- 0.6%). No other metabolic products were detected. Whereas most xylose was dissimilated rather than assimilated by S. cerevisiae, the organism apparently possesses a pathway which completely oxidizes xylose in the presence of another substrate. PMID- 2515243 TI - Early cell envelope alterations by tobramycin associated with its lethal action on Pseudomonas aeruginosa. AB - The immediate activities of the aminoglycoside antibiotic tobramycin were investigated in Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1. The lethal action of a low concentration of tobramycin (8 micrograms ml-1) occurred rapidly (1-3 min) and was associated with leakage of certain cellular components into the supernatant. The presence of magnesium at the time of initial exposure protected cells by preventing uptake of tobramycin; however, magnesium addition following a brief exposure did not restore viability. Analyses of supernatant material revealed a rapid 2-fold increase in protein released following tobramycin treatment. A prominent 29 kDa protein, observed by SDS-PAGE in the released material was identified as the periplasmic beta-lactamase. Brief exposure to tobramycin did not result in major morphological damage or cell lysis as observed by transmission electron microscopy, and release of LPS was not a primary event. Although activity at the ribosomal level was observed by 2-3 min, leakage was detected after only 1 min. These data indicate that leakage of cellular components, particularly beta-lactamase, occurs simultaneously, if not prior to inhibition of protein synthesis by tobramycin. PMID- 2515244 TI - Regulation of the production of hemicellulolytic and cellulolytic enzymes by a Streptomyces sp. growing on lignocellulose. AB - A Streptomyces sp. isolated from compost degraded the hemicellulose fraction of straw efficiently but apparently not native cellulose. Ball-milled straw induced endoglucanase, beta-glucosidase, beta-xylanase and beta-xylosidase. Carboxymethylcellulose, cellotetraose and cellotriose induced cellulolytic enzymes specifically whereas cellobiose acted as inducer for beta-glucosidase only. Cellotriose and cellotetraose induced beta-glucosidase, but only partially induced endoglucanase. Hemicellulose (in the form of xylan) and xylobiose induced only beta-xylanase and beta-xylosidase. Kraft lignin and syringic acid induced beta-xylanase and endoglucanase but not the other enzymes. 3,4-Dimethoxycinnamic acid slightly induced beta-xylanase whereas 3,5-dimethoxy-4-hydroxycinnamic acid specifically induced endoglucanase. Neither veratric acid nor vanillic and ferulic acids induced any of the cellulolytic or hemicellulolytic enzymes. Enzyme production was subject to a form of carbon catabolite repression. Endoglucanase and beta-xylanase were excreted into the culture medium. Four protein components, one acidic (pI 5.2) and three basic (pI 8.15, 8.45 and 8.65) exhibited beta xylanase activity. Two acidic components (pI 3.55 and 3.75) displayed endoglucanase activity. PMID- 2515245 TI - Purification and some properties of Candida albicans exo-1,3-beta-glucanase. AB - An exo-1,3-beta-glucanase was purified from blastoconidia of Candida albicans 1001. The purified enzyme appeared as a single protein band by PAGE, and split into two subunits (Mr approximately 63,000 and 44,000) when analysed by SDS-PAGE. The pI of the enzyme was 4 and a Km of 1.7 mg ml-1 was estimated for laminarin as substrate. Despite its very reduced activity on the synthetic substrate p nitrophenyl beta-D-glucoside, C. albicans exo-1,3-beta-glucanase hydrolysed 1,3 beta-glucan by an exo-splitting mechanism and was inhibited by glucono-delta lactone and by Hg2+ and Ag+ cations. The active exo-glucanase was mainly located in the periplasm, but it was also present inside the cytoplasmic membrane in small amounts and was secreted into the culture medium. The electrophoretic mobility of the enzyme from all three locations was the same. PMID- 2515246 TI - The broad-specificity, membrane-bound lactate dehydrogenase of Neisseria gonorrhoeae: ties to aromatic metabolism. AB - Neisseria gonorrhoeae can convert phenyllactate (PL) to phenylalanine and 4 hydroxyphenyllactate (HPL) to tyrosine. This was demonstrated by nutritional and physiological approaches. The enzymic basis for this unusual ability was shown to be the broad specificity of a particulate, unidirectional, pyridine-nucleotide independent lactate dehydrogenase. This enzyme, denoted [iLDH], has been implicated in a pathogenic mechanism whereby host-derived lactate is linked to increased gonococcal oxygen consumption and electron transport. A similar role for HPL, a metabolite available in human host tissues, may provide a selective basis to explain evolution of broadened [iLDH] specificity in Neisseria. The interplay between aromatic metabolism and [iLDH] suggests new approaches for manipulating the host-pathogen relationship. PMID- 2515247 TI - Factors affecting conjugal transfer of plasmids encoding mercury resistance from pure cultures and mixed natural suspensions of epilithic bacteria. AB - Sixty-five pure cultures of epilithic bacteria were examined for their ability to transfer mercury resistance to Pseudomonas aeruginosa; five isolates transferred plasmids encoding mercury resistance with frequencies ranging from 8.4 x 10(-8) to 2.8 x 10(-3) per recipient. Two of the plasmids, pQM3 and pQM4, encoded narrow spectrum mercury resistance, pQM3 also encoded streptomycin resistance, and both plasmids were broad host range. Maximum transfer frequencies of epilithic plasmids from pure cultures occurred over the range 10-25 degrees C at 3.5 g C l 1 and with donor to recipient ratios of 0.4-30. Transfer occurred over a range of pH values (pH 5.0-8.0) but the effect of pH was most significant at non-optimal temperature. Anaerobiosis inhibited transfer of one epilithic plasmid, pQM1, but not that of pQM3. Plasmids encoding mercury resistance were also transferred from mixed natural suspensions of epilithic bacteria (MNS) to Pseudomonas spp. on agar in the laboratory. Transfer from MNS occurred over a wide range of environmentally relevant conditions with maximum frequencies (2 x 10(-5) per recipient) after 24 h, at 25 degrees C, pH 5.5-8.0 and on a medium containing 10 g C l-1. The optimal initial cell density of MNS and recipient was 1.7 x 10(5) c.f.u. cm-2 and highest frequencies were obtained with donor to recipient ratios ranging from 1.2 x 10(-1) to 1.7 x 10(-3). Most of the plasmids (54%) from MNS transferred from their original P. aeruginosa transconjugants to a Pseudomonas putida strain, with frequencies ranging from 1.1 x 10(-6) to greater than 1.0 x 10(-1) per recipient. The majority (80%) of the plasmids were larger than 300 kb and all of these large plasmids encoded UV resistance in addition to mercury resistance. Twenty-one plasmids greater than 300 kb were analysed by restriction digests and were shown to be similar, with only minor structural alterations. One of these alterations was associated with the acquisition of streptomycin resistance. Overall, these results suggest that the epilithic bacteria examined possess the potential to transfer mercury resistance within the epilithon under a wide range of environmentally relevant conditions. PMID- 2515248 TI - Cloning and expression of Rhodococcus genes encoding pigment production in Escherichia coli. AB - Pigment was produced by Escherichia coli cells carrying recombinant plasmids pNIL100, pNIL200 and pNIL400 containing DNA from Rhodococcus sp. E. coli cells containing pNIL100 or pNIL200 (with DNA inserts from Rhodococcus sp. JL10 and Rhodococcus sp. ATCC 21145 respectively) produced both blue and pink pigments, while cells containing pNIL400 (with a DNA insert from Rhodococcus sp. ATCC 21145) produced only pink pigment. Colonies of E. coli(pNIL100) and E. coli(pNIL200) were dark blue, whereas E. coli(pNIL400) colonies were pink. No pigment was detected in Streptomyces griseus transformants containing pNIL100, pNIL200 or pNIL400. Restriction endonuclease mapping indicated that the cloned DNA fragments were different. The pigment gene(s) in pNIL200 producing both the blue and pink pigments were contained within a 2.8 kb DNA fragment. The pigments produced by E. coli transformants containing pNIL200 were characterized by visible and UV spectroscopy. No similar pigments were detected in Rhodococcus sp. ATCC 21145. PMID- 2515249 TI - Isolation of plasmid DNA sequences that complement Rhodobacter sphaeroides mutants deficient in the capacity for CO2-dependent growth. AB - Mutants deficient in the proper regulation and derepression of ribulose-1.5 bisphosphate carboxylase oxygenase (RuBPC/O) in Rhodobacter sphaeroides were isolated by ethyl methanesulphonate (EMS) and Tn5 mutagenesis of a recA parental strain. Mutants were identified by their ability to grow under conditions where the organism requires basal levels of RuBPC C/O for growth yet fail to grow under conditions which require derepression of the enzyme (Aut-). The newly isolated Aut- mutants exhibited phenotypes distinguishable from the previously isolated Aut- mutant, strain KW25/11. Rocket immunoelectrophoretic examination of RuBPC/O levels revealed marked variance in the ability of mutants to derepress form I and form II RuBPC/O in the absence of exogenous carbon. Evidence that some of the mutants possessed different mutations was substantiated by complementation of the EMS-generated mutants by entirely different genes isolated from a genomic library of R. sphaeroides constructed in the broad-host-range cosmid vector pVK102. Southern hybridization analysis of the complementing library isolates showed the complementing genes to be normally carried on the endogenous plasmids of R. sphaeroides. The gene complementing mutant strain KW25/11 was mapped by Tn5 insertional inactivation and the complementing region found to reside on a 1.5 kb PstJ. BamHI fragment. Complemented strains were unable to match wild-type levels of RuBPC/O under conditions requiring derepression of the enzyme, except for mutant strain EMS45. The Aut- phenotype, represented by the mutants isolated in this study, stems from a deficiency in some aspect of photoautotrophic growth. PMID- 2515250 TI - Functioning of the colicin A lysis protein is affected by Triton X-100, divalent cations and EDTA. AB - The colicin A lysis protein, Cal, is synthesized at the same time as colicin A by Escherichia coli harbouring plasmid pColA after induction by mitomycin C. Its function in the induced bacteria involves the release of colicin A, quasi-lysis, the death of the producing cells and the activation of the outer membrane phospholipase A. We have found that these various functions are affected differently by treatment of the induced cells with Triton X-100, divalent cations or EDTA. Triton X-100 and EDTA caused increased quasi-lysis and a higher level of mortality of the producing cells, but while Triton X-100 enhanced the release of colicin A, EDTA reduced it. Divalent cations protected the cells against both killing and quasi-lysis without greatly affecting colicin release. The effects of these agents were similar for both wild-type and phospholipase A mutants and depended only on the presence of a functional cal gene. PMID- 2515251 TI - Molecular cloning and sequence determination of the lpd gene encoding lipoamide dehydrogenase from Pseudomonas fluorescens. AB - The lpd gene encoding lipoamide dehydrogenase (dihydrolipoamide dehydrogenase; EC 1.8.1.4) was isolated from a library of Pseudomonas fluorescens DNA cloned in Escherichia coli TG2 by use of serum raised against lipoamide dehydrogenase from Azotobacter vinelandii. Large amounts (up to 15% of total cellular protein) of the P. fluorescens lipoamide dehydrogenase were produced by the E. coli clone harbouring plasmid pCJB94 with the lipoamide dehydrogenase gene. The enzyme was purified to homogeneity by a three-step procedure. The gene was subcloned from plasmid pCJB94 and the complete nucleotide sequence of the subcloned fragment (3610 bp) was determined. The derived amino acid sequence of P. fluorescens lipoamide dehydrogenase showed 84% and 42% homology when compared to the amino acid sequences of lipoamide dehydrogenase from A. vinelandii and E. coli, respectively. The lpd gene of P. fluorescens is clustered in the genome with genes for the other components of the 2-oxoglutarate dehydrogenase complex. PMID- 2515252 TI - Structure and expression of the Lactococcus lactis gene for phospho-beta galactosidase (lacG) in Escherichia coli and L. lactis. AB - The Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis 712 lacG gene encoding phospho-beta galactosidase was isolated from the lactose mini-plasmid pMG820 and cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli and L. lactis. The low phospho-beta-galactosidase activity in L. lactis transformed with high-copy-number plasmids containing the lacG gene contrasted with the high activity found in L. lactis containing the original, low-copy-number lactose plasmid pMG820, and indicated that the original lactose promoter was absent from the cloned DNA. In E. coli the phospho-beta galactosidase could be overproduced using the strong inducible lambda PL promoter, which allowed a rapid purification of the active enzyme. The complete nucleotide sequence of the L. lactis lacG gene and its surrounding regions was determined. The deduced amino acid sequence was confirmed by comparison with the amino acid composition of the purified phospho-beta-galactosidase and its amino terminal sequence. This also allowed the exact positioning of the lacG gene and identification of its characteristic Gram-positive translation initiation signals. The homologous expression data and the sequence organization of the L. lactis lacG gene indicate that the gene is organized into a large lactose operon which contains an intergenic promoter located in an inverted repeat immediately preceding the lacG gene. The organization and sequence of the L. lactis lacG gene were compared with those of the highly homologous lacG gene from Staphylococcus aureus. A remarkable bias for leucine codons was observed in the lacG genes of these two species. Heterogramic homology was observed between the deduced amino acid sequence of the L. lactis phospho-beta-galactosidase, that of the functionally analogous E. coli phospho-beta-glucosidase, and that of an Agrobacterium beta-glucosidase (cellobiase). PMID- 2515253 TI - Electron microscopy of stool-shed viruses: retention of characteristic morphologies after long-term storage at ultralow temperatures. AB - Storage of stool specimens at -70 degrees C has been reported to destroy the characteristic morphology of calicivirus. To determine if other stool-shed viruses are similarly affected, stool specimens previously examined by electron microscopy and observed to contain virus particles were reexamined after 6-10 years of storage at -70 degrees C to -85 degrees C. The stools contained virus particles of different morphological types, including astrovirus, small round structured virus, adenovirus, and rotavirus as well as calicivirus. Also reexamined were stools containing coronavirus-like particles and T = 19 virus like particles. Characteristic virus particles, including calicivirus particles, were recognized in all the stools reexamined. The results indicate that long-term storage of stools at ultralow temperatures does not present a significant problem for the morphological identification of stool-shed viruses. PMID- 2515254 TI - Source of pain and primitive dysfunction in migraine: an identical site? AB - Twenty common migraine patients received a one sided frontotemporal application of nitroglycerin (10 patients) or placebo ointment (10 patients) in a double blind study. Early onset migraine attacks were induced by nitroglycerin in seven out of 10 patients versus no patient in the placebo group. Subsequently 20 migraine patients, who developed an early onset attack with frontotemporal nitroglycerin, received the drug in a second induction test at other body areas. No early onset migraine was observed. Thus the migraine-inducing effect of nitroglycerin seems to depend on direct stimulation of the habitual site of pain, suggesting that the frontotemporal region is of crucial importance in the development of a migraine crisis. This is not consistent with a CNS origin of migraine attack. PMID- 2515256 TI - Immunoglobulin light chain patterns in the cerebrospinal fluid. A study with special reference to the occurrence of free light chains in cerebrospinal fluid with and without oligoclonal immunoglobulin G. AB - The immunoglobulin light chain patterns were studied in paired cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum samples from 30 controls, 70 multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, 18 subjects with other inflammatory neurological diseases and 17 patients with other non-inflammatory neurological disorders. In MS, all CSF samples examined by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis exhibited clonally restricted light chain components. Isoelectric focusing and immunoblotting detected free light chains in around 90% of CSF samples from patients with MS or other inflammatory diseases. These components were clonally restricted, appeared in both mono- and dimeric forms and occurred in CSF samples with as well as without oligoclonal immunoglobulin G bands. Generally, the positive CSF samples contained kappa as well as lambda free lights chains. Such components were not detected in the sera, nor in the CSF samples from controls or patients with non inflammatory diseases. PMID- 2515255 TI - Histogenesis and cell lineage analysis of medulloblastomas. AB - Although the histopathology, ultrastructural features, and cellular immunoreactivity for neuron-specific enolase and synaptophysin suggest that medulloblastomas are neuronal in character, the histogenesis of these tumors has not been firmly established due to conflicting observations surrounding the expression of intermediate filament proteins. In the present study the question of cell lineage in medulloblastomas was re-explored by examining tumors for the presence of neurofilament protein using a highly sensitive assay which employs a cocktail of monoclonal antibodies, as well as A2B5 antigen, and glial fibrillary acidic protein. With this assay, 12 of 14 tumors tested (86%) expressed high levels of both neurofilament protein and A2B5 antigen, whereas glial fibrillary acidic protein was either absent or expressed in very low percentages of the cells. The distributions of neurofilament and A2B5 antigens closely paralleled one another. These observations suggest that medulloblastomas have a common histogenesis from A2B5+ progenitor cells, and consistently manifest a trend toward neuronal rather than glial differentiation. PMID- 2515257 TI - Chronic amphetamine intoxication and the blood-brain barrier permeability to inert polar molecules studied in the vascularly perfused guinea pig brain. AB - The brain vascular perfusion method, with a multiple-time brain uptake analysis, has been employed to study the effects of chronic amphetamine intoxication on the kinetics of entry of 2 inert polar molecules, D-[14C]mannitol (mol.wt. 180) and [3H]polyethylene glycol (PEG, mol.wt. 4000) into the forebrain of the guinea pig. The unidirectional transfer constants, Kin, determined from graphic analysis 14 and 20 days after chronic amphetamine treatment (5 mg/kg daily, i.p.) showed a marked time-dependent progressive enhancement of transfer for both molecules. The kinetic features of this entry suggest the opening up of pathways through the blood-brain barrier (BBB) which allows mannitol and PEG to pass into the brain at rates which are irrespective of their molecular size and/or lipophilia and these changes cannot be attributed to simple mechanical factors such as hypertension. This opening of the BBB was associated with changes in behaviour (increased locomotor activity, stereotypy, hypervigilance, social withdrawal, and loss of weight) seen in 14- and 20-day amphetamine-treated animals. At 7 and 28 days after the withdrawal of the amphetamine treatment, the behavioural manifestations were absent, and the Kin values for both molecules were not significantly different from those measured in normal control animals which had been treated with placebo injections. The present results suggest a reversible dysfunction of the BBB as a consequence of the chronic amphetamine intoxication which correlates with the behavioural syndrome induced in the guinea pig. PMID- 2515259 TI - ICRF 187. PMID- 2515258 TI - Transient modulation of Schwann cell antigens after peripheral nerve transection and subsequent regeneration. AB - Schwann cells within the distal portion of a transected nerve undergo a series of poorly understood events in response to injury and loss of axonal contact. These events may influence the regeneration of PNS neurons. In this study we examined the alteration of antigens located in the basal lamina, plasma membrane and cytoplasm of Schwann cells within the distal nerve stump: (a) after a complete transection of the sciatic nerve, and (b) subsequent to reestablished contact between regenerating axons and dedifferentated Schwann cells separated from contact with neurons. Visualization of laminin and heparan sulphate proteoglycan molecules at various intervals after nerve transection always revealed intact basal lamina channels. In response to loss of axonal contact, vimentin expression by Schwann cells within the distal nerve stump increased, becoming a predominant intermediate filament protein of the cytoskeleton while glial fibrillary acid protein (GFAP) expression decreased. This reversal in the prominence of intermediate filament protein was maintained until the onset of axonal reinnervation, at which point expression of GFAP increased and vimentin decreased. Expression of the Schwann cell plasma membrane associated protein, C4, closely mimicked GFAP expression during axon degeneration and subsequent reinnervation. In the normal uninjured nerve, tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) and S-100 were localized in the region near the Schwann cell-axon interface and the outer Schwann cell plasma membrane. In response to loss of axonal contact, the S-100 and tPA immunoreactivity associated with the Schwann cell-axon interface was lost while that localized around the outer Schwann cell plasma membrane remained unchanged. The results of this study demonstrate that Schwann cells modulate a portion of their antigenic repertoire in response to a loss of axonal contact and after contact with regenerating axons. PMID- 2515260 TI - In-vitro susceptibility of clinical isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to beta lactam and aminoglycoside antibiotics. AB - The in-vitro susceptibilities of 198 isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa from clinical human specimens were determined by an agar dilution technique against beta-lactams and aminoglycosides. These isolates were susceptible to imipenem, aztreonam and ceftazidime with the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for 90% of the strains tested being 8, 16 and 8 micrograms/ml, respectively. Aminoglycosides, except amikacin, had low activity (MIC90 greater than 128 micrograms/ml). PMID- 2515261 TI - Do inert beta-lactamase inhibitors act as synergizers of beta-lactam antibiotics? Utility of boric and boronic acids. AB - Boric and boronic acids were used as inhibitors of beta-lactamases produced by two Citrobacter diversus strains and by one strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa; all strains were clinical isolates. The beta-lactamases produced by the two Citrobacter diversus strains were inhibited by both borates and boronates, using cephazolin as substrate. The enzyme from Pseudomonas aeruginosa was inhibited only by boronates, using benzylpenicillin as substrate. These inhibitors were also used in combination with selected beta-lactams so as to determine if a synergism of antimicrobial activity occurred. All data reported in the present paper indicate that the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values were lowered in the presence of these inhibitors for the two Citrobacter diversus strains. In the Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains the MIC values were not significantly altered, thus indicating the presence of a permeability barrier for 3-aminophenylboronic acid. PMID- 2515262 TI - Histopathological lesions produced by P. aeruginosa lipopolysaccharide in rats. AB - The lipopolysaccharide (LPS) of Pseudomonas aeruginosa is considered to be less toxic than the LPS from the Enterobacteriaceae family. The present study was undertaken to determine the time course of lesions produced in the lungs, spleen, liver, kidneys and bone marrow from 1 to 168 hours following a single (1.5mg) intravenous injection of P. aeruginosa LPS--1R (S-form), and its mutant strains, 557 (R-form) and 605 (more-R-form)--in rats. The lesions consisted of atelectasis, infiltration by polymorphonuclear leukocytes, intraalveolar hemorrhage and perivascular edema of the lung, hyperplasia of the white pulp of the spleen, necrosis of hepatic parenchyma, vacuolization of cells of the adrenal zone fasciculata, and hyperplasia of bone marrow. Immunoperoxidase stain for the R-form and the more-R forms of LPS of P. aeruginosa showed similar distribution kinetics within hepatocytes and Kupffer cells, while the S-form required 24 hours to become evident within hepatocytes. The data show that all 3 LPS preparations are toxic, distributed differently within hepatocytes, as demonstrated by immunoperoxidase stains, and exhibit different time courses and severity of lesions within the affected organs. PMID- 2515264 TI - The growth and development of Schistosoma mansoni in mice exposed to sublethal doses of radiation. AB - The maturation of Schistosoma mansoni was studied in mice exposed to various sublethal doses of radiation. Although the treatment of mice with 500 rads of radiation prior to infection did not alter parasite maturation, doses in excess of 500 rads led to a reduction in worm burden. This could not be attributed to a delay in the arrival of parasites in the hepatic portal system. Worms developing in mice treated with 800 rads commenced egg-laying about 1 wk later than worms in intact mice, and the rate of egg deposition appeared to be lower in irradiated hosts. The data demonstrate that exposure of C57BL/6 mice to doses of radiation in excess of 500 rads impairs their ability to carry infections of S. mansoni. The findings do not support the hypothesis that primary worm burdens in the mouse are controlled by a host immune response. PMID- 2515263 TI - Death and dying in long term care facilities. Continuing Advisory and Sub Committee on the Health Care of the Elderly and Long Term Care of the Professional Advisory Committee to the Ministry of Health. PMID- 2515265 TI - Fatal perinatal sarcocystosis in a lamb. AB - A 3-wk-old lamb died because of neurological disease. The predominant microscopic lesions were in the brain and spinal cord and consisted of nonsuppurative encephalomyelitis with severe gliosis throughout the gray and white matter. Immature and mature schizonts, 15.7 x 10.6 microns (8-30 x 6-18 microns), occurred in capillaries and were structurally similar to those of Sarcocystis tenella. PMID- 2515266 TI - Aluminum exposure and toxicity. PMID- 2515267 TI - Evolution of some biochemical characteristics of the intestinal mucosa during the first postnatal weeks in C57 mice. Effects of thyroxine and putrescine. AB - In C57 mice, during the third week after birth, there is a rapid conversion of the intestinal epithelium from fetal to mature adult status. Some characteristics (lactase, maltase, diamine oxidase, and sucrase activity; putrescine, spermine and spermidine concentrations; mitotic index) have been analyzed for the proximal, middle, and distal parts of the intestine in mice of different ages: 8, 15, 19, and 60 days. The most important observations recorded were as follows: (a) sucrase- and maltase-specific activities as well as spermine and spermidine contents increased abruptly on the 19th postnatal day and then decreased; (b) decrease of lactase and diamine oxidase-specific activity was recorded between the 15th and 19th postnatal days, (c) later, diamine oxidase-specific activity increased, whereas putrescine content decreased in the proximal part of the intestine; and (d) mitotic index was not significantly different when estimated for the crypts on days 11 and 19. No similar variations of these biochemical parameters were observed over a period of 3 days when mice were injected with thyroxine on the 8th day or when mice received putrescine per os on the 9th day, as explained in the text. Only a slight but significant variation in sucrase- or maltase-specific activity with thyroxine and a variation of the lactase or DAO specific activity of the distal part of the intestine with putrescine were recorded. PMID- 2515268 TI - Hypocalcemia complicating deferoxamine therapy in an infant with parenteral nutrition-associated aluminum overload: evidence for a role of aluminum in the bone disease of infants. AB - Aluminum (Al) contaminates total parenteral nutrition (TPN) solutions given to infants, and high levels of Al have been demonstrated in their bone, serum, and urine. However, it is uncertain whether Al at current levels of contamination of TPN solutions is harmful to bone. We report an 8-month-old infant who developed osteopenic bone disease while receiving TPN, which did not respond to large amounts of calcium, phosphate, and vitamin D2. Serum and urine Al levels were greatly elevated and fell after a short course of deferoxamine. However, shortly after treatment began, serum calcium levels fell in the absence of hypercalciuria. We postulate that chelation of Al from this patient's bone permitted increased bone calcium uptake. This would suggest that Al at current levels of contamination of TPN solutions may impair bone calcium uptake and thus contribute to the pathogenesis or exacerbation of TPN-related osteopenia. PMID- 2515269 TI - Effect of lithium carbonate administration singly or in combination with some psychotropic drugs on the radioiodide uptake by mouse thyroid. AB - The present study dealt with two objects; the first object was to examine whether or not lithium uptake in thyroid is modified by the thyroid state and how the intrathyroidal Li affects iodide uptake by the thyroid. Male and female mice were given lithium carbonate (Li) with propylthiouracil (PTU) or thyroxine (T4). Li was measured by a flameless atomic absorption spectrometry. The total Li content in thyroid was unaffected with PTU or T4, however, Li concentration per unit mass was reduced by PTU but unaffected by T4. The thyroid: serum ratio (T/S) of 125I resulted that the T/S became higher when Li concentration per unit mass was lower and vice versa, suggesting that Li uptake is controlled by thyroid states and Li in the gland interferes with the iodide uptake. Serum triiodothyronine (T3) and T4 by radioimmunoassay showed that PTU alone and in combination with Li lowered serum T4, while a high level of T4 by its supplement was suppressed by co administration of Li. T3 level was lowered by Li alone, but not severely affected by other drugs. The results suggest that Li enhances T4 clearance without T4-T3 conversion. The second object was to examine the effect of combined psychotropic drugs on thyroid function. Carbamazepine (CBZ), haloperidol (HLP) and imipramine (IPA) were given singly or in combination with Li to examine their effects on the T/S of 125I. Only CBZ reduced the T/S but CBZ plus Li had no summative effect. Neither HLP nor IPA affected the T/S, singly or in combination with Li, suggesting that HLP or IPA does not interfere with an iodide pumping machinery. No distinct sex difference was observed in drug effects. PMID- 2515270 TI - Correlation of contraceptive activity of norethisterone and levonorgestrel esters with VR(w) values and hydrolysis rates. AB - The relationships between contraceptive activity, hydrophobic character and alkaline hydrolysis rates were studied in three homologous series of norethisterone and levonorgestrel esters. Hydrophobic character was expressed by the high-performance liquid chromatographic retention term, VR(w) or retention volume at 100% aqueous mobile phase. A parabolic and bilinear relationship was shown between log VR(w) and log biological response. No correlation between second-order alkaline hydrolysis rates, k2, measured in 70% (v/v) aqueous dioxan and contraceptive activity was established. PMID- 2515271 TI - Involvement of prostaglandins in kaolin-induced writhing reaction in mice. AB - The relationship between the kaolin-induced writhing reaction and production of arachidonate metabolites (PGs) in mice was studied. PGs were released into the peritoneal cavity after intraperitoneal injection (i.p.) of kaolin (2.5 mg/mouse) with a peak at 5 min. About 80% of the total amount was 6-keto-PGF1 alpha. There was a significant correlation (r = 0.8237, p less than 0.001) between the number of writhes and the amount of 6-keto-PGF1 alpha. The writhing reaction induced by kaolin was significantly inhibited by simultaneous injection of soybean trypsin inhibitor (SBTI; 2.5 mg/mouse) and increased by simultaneous injection of captopril (50 micrograms/mouse). The writing reaction induced by kaolin which was inhibited by oral administration of indomethacin (1 mg/kg) was restored by exogenous i.p. injection of PGI2-Na (2-10 ng/mouse). Indomethacin, ibuprofen and alminoprofen inhibited the writhing reaction and reduced the level of peritoneal 6-keto-PGF1 alpha in parallel manner. Tiaramide, pentazocine and morphine inhibited the writhing reaction without reducing the revels of 6-keto-PGF1 alpha. These results differentiate the site of action of these analgesics. They suggest that the mechanism of the kaolin-induced writhing reaction in mice involves a synergic pain caused by simultaneously released bradykinin and PGI2. This model is a useful tool which allows differentiation of mode of action of analgesics by simultaneous determination of the writhing response and peritoneal 6-keto-PGF1 alpha. PMID- 2515272 TI - [Some chemical and serological properties of non-dialysable fractions of human seminal plasmas]. AB - Some chemical and serological properties of water-soluble and undialysable fraction (WSF) and water-insoluble and undialysable fraction (WISF) of human seminal plasmas were studied. Both of the fractions contained proteins as the main components and also carbohydrates as minor components, and each fraction gave 9 bands which were stained with the Periodate-Schiff and/or Coomassie brilliant blue reagents on sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide slub gel electrophoresis. WSF reacted with 17 of 19 hemagglutinins, whereas WISF reacted with 12 of them. Although WSF and WISF did not react with anti-M and -N sera respectively, both of the fractions reacted with the anti-N lectins of Vicia graminea and V. unijuga and also with Arachis hypogaea anti-T (Thomsen Friedenreich) lectin. Perchloric acid-soluble fractions separated from a large number of human intact organ tissues and serum did not react with the above mentioned 5 hemagglutinins. In double immuno-diffusion, both of the fractions interacted with rabbit anti-WSF serum to form 4 precipitation lines. PMID- 2515273 TI - Effects of peripheral and central chemoreflex activation on the isopnoeic rating of breathing in exercising humans. AB - 1. Respiratory sensation during exercise is generally considered to be related to respiratory mechanical factors which may be manifest as an abnormal relationship between the force applied to the lungs and chest wall and the resulting motion (if any); that is, a 'length-tension' inappropriateness (Campbell & Howell, 1963). This suggests that there should be a direct correlation between ventilation (VE) and the associated intensity of the perceived sensation, such that the sensation associated with a particular level of VE should remain essentially constant regardless of the source of respiratory stimulation. 2. In order to establish whether certain respiratory stimuli might be 'dyspnoeagenic' (i.e. capable of evoking an intensity of respiratory sensation out of proportion to their influence on VE), we investigated the influence of both peripheral chemoreflex activation (induced by isocapnic hypoxia) and central chemoreflex activation (induced by hypercapnic hyperoxia) on the intensity of respiratory sensation in seven healthy adults during moderate cycle ergometer exercise (i.e. below the lactate threshold, theta 1ac). 3. In each test, an 'isopnoea' was established for which a particular level of VE was sustained over a prolonged period (approximately 30 min) while the proportional contributions to the ventilatory drive from either exercise and the peripheral chemoreflex or from exercise and the central chemoreflex were slowly altered to new stable levels, without the subject's knowledge, VE, tidal volume, inspiratory and expiratory durations, mean inspiratory flow, and end-tidal PCO2 and PO2 (PET,CO2, PET,O2) were monitored breath-by-breath. The intensity of respiratory sensation was rated with a visual analogue scale. 4. Isopnoeic ratings of respiratory sensation were systematically greater for peripheral chemoreflex activation by isocapnic hypoxia during exercise at 50% theta 1ac (for which the degree of peripheral chemoreflex activation, estimated by hyperoxic transition or 'Dejours' testing, averaged approximately 23% of the total VE), compared to 90% theta 1ac during isocapnic hyperoxia. Ratings during exercise at 50% theta 1ac for central chemoreflex activation by hypercapnic hyperoxia were not systematically different from 90% theta 1ac during isocapnic hyperoxia, however. 5. As VE was stable throughout each isopnoea and the MVV (maximum voluntary ventilation) was uninfluenced by the test condition, the dyspnoea index (VE x 100/MVV) was not affected. Breathing pattern was also unaffected. 6. We conclude that in normal subjects exercising moderately, activation of the peripheral chemoreceptors by isocapnic hypoxia evokes an intensity of respiratory sensation which is out of proportion to that evoked by an isopnoeic stimulation of the central chemoreceptors with hypercapnic hyperoxia at the same level of exercise.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2515274 TI - The ventilatory CO2 sensitivities from Read's rebreathing method and the steady state method are not equal in man. AB - 1. The ventilatory response to changes in end-tidal carbon dioxide tension during hyperoxia, obtained with Read's rebreathing method and a steady-state technique, were compared. 2. In ten young male subjects, forty successful rebreathing and thirteen steady-state experiments were performed on thirteen different morning sessions. 3. In all subjects the ventilatory CO2 sensitivities obtained with the rebreathing method (Sr) were appreciably larger than the steady-state CO2 sensitivities (Ss). The ratio Sr/Ss ranged from 1.40 to 2.59 with a mean value of 1.85. 4. We argue that these results can be explained by considering the effect of changes in cerebral blood flow upon increasing the arterial CO2 tension during rebreathing and the steady state. 5. We conclude that in general the CO2 sensitivity obtained with Read's rebreathing method does not represent the steady state CO2 sensitivity. PMID- 2515275 TI - Intracellular chloride and the mechanism for its accumulation in rat lumbrical muscle. AB - 1. Double-barrelled Cl(-)-sensitive microelectrodes have been used to measure the intracellular Cl- activity (aCli) and membrane potential (Em) in rat lumbrical muscles. The mean Cl- equilibrium potential (ECl), calculated from the measured aCli in sixty fibres, was 2.9 +/- 2.5 mV (S.D. of an observation) less negative than Em. The value of aCli was higher than would be expected for a passive distribution, by a mean 1.4 +/- 1.2 mM. The mean Em was -59.5 +/- 8.2 mV. 2. Removal of external Cl- (Cl-(o)) resulted in a rapid fall in aCli and a transient depolarization. aCli stabilized at an apparent level of 1.7 +/- 1.0 mM (n = 24) while Em became substantially more negative than in normal Krebs solution (mean, 80.1 +/- 12.4 mV). Readdition of Cl-(o) caused a rapid rise in aCli and transient hyperpolarization. ECl quickly became less negative than Em and both then fell in parallel towards the levels previously recorded in normal Krebs solution. 3. If lack of selectivity of the Cl(-)-sensitive ion exchanger and the intracellular presence of interfering anions, assumed to be responsible for the apparent aCli recorded in Cl(-)-depleted fibres, were also responsible for the apparently non passive Cl- distribution recorded under normal conditions, the difference between the calculated ECl and Em would increase at more negative potentials. This was not observed over a range of Em values between -46 and -84 mV. 4. Inhibition of the Cl- permeability by application of 9-anthracene carboxylic acid (9-AC) resulted in an immediate rise in aCli and hyperpolarization. An aCli up to 40 mM higher, or eleven times higher, than that predicted by a passive distribution was recorded. Application of 9-AC after depletion of intracellular Cl- in Cl(-)-free solution had no effect on either the apparent aCli or Em. 5. It is concluded that Cl- ions are actively accumulated by the skeletal muscle fibre and that the Cl- distribution therefore normally exerts a depolarizing influence. 6. In the presence of 9-AC and nominal absence of CO2 and HCO3-, readdition of Cl-(o) to Cl(-)-depleted fibres resulted in a substantial rise in aCli and a small, maintained depolarization. This clear demonstration of active accumulation was used to investigate the mechanism responsible for inward transport of Cl- ions. 7. Neither application of CO2 and HCO3- nor application of DIDS (4,4' diisothiocyanostilbene-2,2'-disulphonic acid) had any effect on the accumulation of Cl- ions. This suggests that Cl(-)-HCO3- exchange is not involved.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2515278 TI - von Recklinghausen's disease of nerves: a modern day social response. AB - We describe a patient with von Recklinghausen's Disease of Nerves whose appearance provoked an emotive reaction in the close community of an RN ship akin to that reported in the case of Sir Frederick Treves' "Elephant Man". The RN divisional system provided a valuable contribution to the resolution of the problems created. PMID- 2515277 TI - Transient, steady-state and rebreathing responses to carbon dioxide in man, at rest and during light exercise. AB - 1. The transient ventilatory response to CO2, measured using short pulses at constant inflow, was compared with the steady-state response at rest and during exercise at 50 W, and with the rebreathing response at rest, in nine healthy subjects. At rest CO2 was given at flow rates of 0.2 and 0.4 l min-1 and during exercise, to compensate for the smaller inhaled CO2 fraction as ventilation increased, at flow rates of 0.4 and 0.8 l min-1. 2. We calculated two indexes of gain for the transient response: the ratio of the peaks of the ventilation and PCO2 pulses, and the ratio of their integrals. 3. The steady-state response was greater than the transient response at rest and during exercise, but there was no correlation between the two. The rebreathing response was greater than both. Both the transient and the steady-state responses were greater during exercise than at rest. 4. To assess alinearity, the steady-state responses to the two CO2 flow rates were compared. At rest, there was no significant difference. During exercise, the response was greater to 0.4 than 0.8 l min-1, indicating alinearity concave downwards. 5. We conclude that the transient response as we calculate it is not representative of steady-state gain, and that the CO2 response in light exercise is steeper, and concave downwards in shape. The rebreathing technique overestimates CO2 sensitivity near the control point. PMID- 2515276 TI - Demonstration of H+- and Na+-coupled co-transport of beta-alanine by luminal membrane vesicles of rabbit proximal tubule. AB - 1. The characteristics of renal transport of beta-alanine by luminal membrane vesicles isolated from either the proximal convoluted part (pars convoluta) or the proximal straight part (pars recta) of rabbit proximal tubule were investigated. 2. In vesicles from pars convoluta two transport systems have been characterized: (1) a Na+-dependent system with intermediate affinity (half saturation 2.7 mM), and (2) a Na+-independent system, which in the presence of a H+ gradient (extravesicular greater than intravesicular) can drive the uphill transport of beta-alanine into these vesicles. This is the first demonstration of H+-beta-alanine co-transport across luminal membrane of rabbit kidney proximal convoluted tubule. 3. By contrast, in membrane vesicles from pars recta, transport of beta-alanine was strictly dependent on Na+ and occurred via a dual transport system, namely a high-affinity (half-saturation 0.16 mM) and a low affinity system (half-saturation 9.3 mM). 4. The demonstration of competition between the Na+-gradient-dependent uptake of beta-alanine and taurine, without appreciable inhibition by alpha-amino acids in vesicles from pars convoluta as well as from pars recta, strongly suggests that the luminal membrane of proximal tubule has transport systems for the reabsorption of beta-amino acids which are distinct from alpha-amino acid transport systems. PMID- 2515279 TI - Genotoxic action of sunlight upon Bacillus subtilis spores: monitoring studies at Tokyo, Japan. AB - Samples of Bacillus subtilis spores dried on membrane filter were exposed to natural sunlight from solar-noon time at Tokyo. The survival and mutation induction of wild-type (UVR) and repair-deficient (UVS) spores were determined on 66 occasions since 1979. Two of the values were considered to be useful in monitoring solar UV intensity; the inverse of the time (in minutes) of exposure to kill 63% of the UVS spores ("sporocidal index") and the induced mutation frequency at 60 minutes of exposure of the UVR spores ("mutagenic index"). Both values were varied greatly due to time of a year, weather and other conditions. Estimates of year-round changes under clear skies were obtained by connecting the maximum values attained in these years. In these curves, there are more than 7 fold differences in the genotoxicity between winter and summer months, with major increases observed in early spring and decreases through autumn. Using a series of UV cut-off filters, the wavelengths most effective for the sporocidal actions were estimated to be in the range of 308-325 nm, shorter wavelengths being effective when the genotoxicity was higher. Sunburn meter of Robertson-Berger type seems to respond to slightly longer wavelength components of the solar spectrum. However, a reasonable correlation was obtained between the reading of the meter and the sporocidal index. PMID- 2515280 TI - Medical audit. PMID- 2515281 TI - Winchester's syndrome. PMID- 2515283 TI - Hyperosmolality inhibits exocytosis in sea urchin eggs by formation of a granule free zone and arrest of pore widening. AB - Hyperosmolality is known to inhibit membrane fusion during exocytosis. In this study cortical granule exocytosis in sea urchin eggs is used as a model system to determine at what step this inhibition occurs. Strongylocentrotus purpuratus eggs were incubated in hyperosmotic seawater (Na2SO4, sucrose or sodium HEPES used as osmoticants), the eggs activated with 20 microM A23187 to trigger exocytosis, and then quick frozen or chemically fixed for electron microscopy. Thin sections and freeze-fracture replicas show that at high osmolality (2.31 osmol/kg), there is a decrease in cortical granule size, a 90% reduction in granule-plasma membrane fusion, and formation of a granule-free zone between the plasma membrane and cortical granules. This zone averages 0.64 micron in thickness and prevents the majority of granules from docking at the plasma membrane. The remaining granules (approximately 10%) exhibit early stages of fusion which appear to have been stabilized; the matrix of these granules remains intact. We conclude that exocytosis is blocked by two separate mechanisms. First, the granule-free zone prevents granule-plasma membrane contact required for fusion. Second, in cases where fusion does occur, opening of the pocket and dispersal of the granule contents are slowed in hyperosmotic media. PMID- 2515282 TI - Expression of a rapid, low-voltage threshold K current in insulin-secreting cells is dependent on intracellular calcium buffering. AB - Depolarization-activated outward currents ranging in amplitude from 100-1000 pA were studied in cultured, insulin-secreting HIT cells and mouse B-cells using the whole-cell patch clamp. Outward current was identified as a K current since it was blocked by K channel blockers and its tail current reversed near EK. The K currents of HIT cells dialyzed with internal solutions containing 0.1-10 mM EGTA with no added calcium (Ca), or 10 mM EGTA with 2 mM added Ca, activated rapidly with depolarization. However, the stronger Ca buffer BAPTA (5 mM; no added Ca) blocked the rapidly activating current to reveal an underlying more slowly activating K current. With intracellular EGTA, application of the Ca channel blocker cadmium mimicked the effect of intracellular BAPTA. These data suggest that the rapid K current was mediated by low-voltage threshold, Ca-activated K channels while the slower K current was mediated by high threshold delayed rectifier K channels. Mouse B-cells also had both K current components. Dialyzing these cells with either BAPTA (5 mM, no added Ca) or high EGTA (10 mM with 2 mM Ca) blocked the rapid Ca-activated K current observed when cells were filled with 0.1 to 1 mM EGTA. It is concluded that the extent of Ca-activated K current activation in either HIT or adult mouse B-cells depends on the degree of intracellular Ca buffering. PMID- 2515284 TI - Neuro-developmental study of profoundly mentally handicapped children in hospital care. AB - Swedish estimates of the need for long-term intensive health care provision for profoundly mentally handicapped children were compared with an Edinburgh survey, and the neurodevelopment and health characteristics of Edinburgh children with profound mental handicap who required prolonged admission are described. The extent of their disabilities indicates the complexity of the task of designing alternatives to their present hospital provision which will adequately meet their health needs. PMID- 2515285 TI - Three-dimensional structure of a light chain dimer crystallized in water. Conformational flexibility of a molecule in two crystal forms. AB - The three-dimensional structure of an immunoglobulin light chain dimer (Mcg) crystallized in deionized water (orthorhombic form) was determined at 2.0 A resolution by phase extension and crystallographic refinement. This structure was refined side-by-side with that of the same molecule crystallized in ammonium sulfate (trigonal form). The dimer adopted markedly different structures in the two solvents. "Elbow bend" angles between pseudo 2-fold axes of rotation relating pairs of "variable" (V) and "constant" (C) domains were found to be 132 degrees in the orthorhombic form and 115 degrees in the trigonal form. Modes of association of the V domains and, to a lesser extent, the pairing interactions of the C domains were different in the two structures. Alterations in the V domain pairing were reflected in the shapes of the binding regions and in the orientations of the side-chains lining the walls of the binding sites. In the trigonal form, for instance, the V domain interface was compartmentalized into a main binding cavity and a deep pocket, whereas these spaces were continuous in the orthorhombic structure. Patterns of ordered water molecules were quite distinct in the two crystal types. In some cases, the solvent structures could be correlated with conformational changes in the proteins. For example, close contacts between V and C domains of monomer 1 of the trigonal form were not retained in orthorhombic crystals. Ordered water molecules filled the space created when the two domains moved apart. PMID- 2515286 TI - Structure of vaccinia virus early promoters. AB - Functional elements of a vaccinia virus early promoter were characterized by making a complete set of single nucleotide substitutions, as well as more complex mutations, and assaying their effects on gene expression. Synthetic oligonucleotides, based primarily on the sequence of the 7.5-kD early promoter, were inserted into a plasmid vector containing the lacZ gene of Escherichia coli flanked by sequences from the thymidine kinase (TK) gene of vaccinia virus. The lacZ gene, under control of the synthetic promoter, was introduced into the vaccinia virus genome at the TK locus by homologous recombination, and each of the 331 different recombinant viruses thus obtained was assayed for beta galactosidase expression. The relative amounts and precise 5' ends of lacZ mRNAs specified by a subset of the recombinants were determined by primer extension. Many promoters were tested for their ability to direct specific transcription in vitro. A generally good correlation was noted between measurements of promoter strength estimated by beta-galactosidase expression, primer extension of in vivo mRNA and transcription in vitro. A relatively simple picture emerged from the analysis. The early promoter consists of a 16 base-pair critical region, in which most single nucleotide substitutions have a major effect on expression, separated by 11 base-pairs of a less critical T-rich sequence from a seven base-pair region within which initiation with a purine usually occurs. For the critical region of the 7.5-kD promoter, AAAAgTaGAAAataTA, any substitution of an upper-case nucleotide reduced expression, usually drastically, whereas certain substitutions of lower-case nucleotides maintained or significantly enhanced expression. On the basis of this analysis, the wide range of activities of natural promoters could be attributed to the presence of one or more non-optimal nucleotides in the critical region. Moreover, single nucleotide substitutions in such promoters had the predicted enhancing effects. Most mutations in the critical region of the 7.5 kD promoter behaved independently, but some nucleotide substitutions compensated for potentially detrimental nucleotides at other positions. Promoters substantially stronger than any natural ones examined were constructed by combining several up-mutations within the critical region of the 7.5-kD promoter and by repeating the critical region sequence. Like the TATA box of eukaryotic RNA polymerase II promoters, the critical region specifies the site of transcriptional initiation. PMID- 2515288 TI - Molecular miscegenation. PMID- 2515287 TI - Structure of vaccinia virus late promoters. AB - Functional elements of vaccinia virus late promoters were characterized by mutagenesis. Synthetic oligonucleotides were inserted into a plasmid vector containing the lacZ gene of Escherichia coli flanked by sequences from the thymidine kinase (TK) gene of vaccinia virus. The lacZ gene, under control of the synthetic promoter, was introduced into the vaccinia virus genome at the TK locus by homologous recombination, and each of the 122 recombinants thus obtained was assayed for beta-galactosidase expression. The relative amounts and 5' ends of lacZ mRNAs specified by a subset of the recombinants were determined by primer extension. The analysis indicated that late promoters may be considered in terms of three regions; an upstream sequence of about 20 base-pairs, rich in T and A residues, separated by a spacer region of about six base-pairs from a highly conserved (-1)TAAAT(+4) element within which transcription initiates. All single nucleotide substitutions within the three A residues of the TAAAT, as well as the addition of a fourth A residue, caused drastic reductions in promoter strength. All substitutions of the T residues at -1 and +4 were also detrimental to promoter activity, to an extent that depended on the strength of the promoter as determined by the upstream sequence. mRNA synthesis appeared to initiate within the three A residues regardless of promoter strength. The 5'-poly(A) leader, which is a unique feature of poxvirus late mRNAs, was diminished in length when either of the T residues at -1 and +4 was mutated, was absent or limited to a few nucleotides when any of the three A residues was substituted, but was unaffected by changes outside the TAAAT sequence. The data are consistent with a model for the generation of the normal 5'-poly(A) leader by an RNA polymerase slippage mechanism requiring three consecutive A residues. Single nucleotide substitutions within the six base-pairs upstream and three base-pairs downstream from the TAAAT sequence had modest effects on promoter strength. The most and least favourable changes led to a fourfold increase and an eightfold decrease in activity, respectively. Sequences further upstream were essential for late promoter function; tracts of T or A residues enhanced expression up to 20-fold, the former conferring much greater activity. Highest expression was obtained with a tract of 18 or 20 T residues.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2515290 TI - DNA microenvironments and the molecular clock. AB - A few years ago we presented a stationary Markov model of gene evolution according to which only homologous genes from not too divergent species obeying the condition of being stationary may behave as reliable molecular clocks. A compartmentalized model of the nuclear genome in which the genes are distributed in compartments, the isochores, defined by their G + C content has been proposed recently. We have found that only homologous gene pairs that are stationary, and belong to the same isochore, can be used consistently for the determination of phylogeny and base substitution rate. In particular, for the rodent-human couple, only about half of the homologous gene pairs are stationary. Stationary genes evolve at the third silent codon position with the same velocity independent of the genes and base composition. By contrast, nonstationary genes display apparent rate values (pseudovelocities) that are significantly higher. Our results cast doubt upon recent claims of a large acceleration in the rate of molecular evolution in rodents. PMID- 2515289 TI - Evolution of the mitochondrial genetic code. II. Reassignment of codon AUA from isoleucine to methionine. AB - The reassignment of codon AUA from isoleucine to methionine during mitochondrial evolution may be explained by the codon reassignment (capture) hypothesis without assuming direct replacement of isoleucine by methionine in mitochondrial proteins. According to this hypothesis, codon AUA would have disappeared from the reading frames of messenger RNA. AUA codons would have mutated mainly to AUU isoleucine codons because of constraints resulting from elimination of tRNA Ile with anticodon *CAU (in which *C is lysidine). Later, tRNA Met (CAU) would have undergone structural changes enabling it to pair with both AUG and AUA. AUA codons, formed by mutations of other codons, including AUG, would have reappeared and would have been translated as methionine. PMID- 2515291 TI - Strong functional GC pressure in a light-regulated maize gene encoding subunit GAPA of chloroplast glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase: implications for the evolution of GAPA pseudogenes. AB - The light-regulated nuclear gene encoding subunit A of chloroplast glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (subunit GAPA, gene Gpa1) from maize is extremely G + C rich (67% in codons). The genomic surroundings of this gene have been characterized together with the sequences of two strongly conserved Gpa pseudogenes isolated from a genomic maize library by differential cDNA hybridization. The comparisons show that the high G + C content of the maize gene is maintained independently of the surrounding noncoding sequences, which are G + C poor (42%), and only as long as the gene encodes a functional protein. After nonfunctionalization, Gpa pseudogenes rapidly loose G + C mainly due to enhanced turnover of CpG and CpXpG methylation sites. These results suggest that the maize Gpa1 gene is under strong functional GC pressure, due to constraints (CpG island) probably exerted at the transcriptional level. They also indicate that Gpa pseudogenes are methylated and that methylation was either the cause or the immediate consequence of their nonfunctionalization. It can be concluded further that the progenitor of pseudogenes 1 and 2 was a second functional Gpa gene (Gpa'), which, after duplication, accelerated in evolutionary rate due to relaxation of selective constraints. This is in agreement with the neutral theory of evolution. Comparison of Gpa intron sequences reveals a gradient of divergence: the more 3' the position of an intron the more its sequence has diverged between the three Gpa genes. A speculative model is presented explaining these observations in terms of a homologous recombination of genes with their reverse-transcribed pre-mRNAs. PMID- 2515293 TI - Phylogeny of nitrogenase sequences in Frankia and other nitrogen-fixing microorganisms. AB - The complete nucleotide sequence of a nitrogenase (nifH) gene was determined from a second strain (HRN18a) of Frankia, an aerobic soil bacterium. The open reading frame is 870 bp long and encodes a polypeptide of 290 amino acids. The amino acid and nucleotide sequences were compared with 21 other published sequences. The two Frankia strains were 96% similar at the amino acid level and 93% similar at the nucleotide level. A number of methods were used to infer phylogenies of these nitrogen fixers, based on nifH amino acid and nucleotide sequences. The results obtained do not agree completely with other phylogenies for these bacteria and thus make probable occurrences of lateral transfer of the nif genes. The time of divergence of the two Frankia strains could be estimated at about 100 million years. The vanadium-dependent (Type 2) nitrogenase present in Azotobacter spp. appears to be a recent derivation from the conventional molybdenum-dependent (Type 1) enzyme, whereas the iron-dependent (Type 3) alternative nitrogenase would have a much older origin. PMID- 2515295 TI - Creationists oppose the Science Framework. PMID- 2515292 TI - Evolution of antioxidant mechanisms: thiol-dependent peroxidases and thioltransferase among procaryotes. AB - Glutathione peroxidase and glutathione S-transferase both utilize glutathione (GSH) to destroy organic hydroperoxides, and these enzymes are thought to serve an antioxidant function in mammalian cells by catalyzing the destruction of lipid hydroperoxides. Only two groups of procaryotes, the purple bacteria and the cyanobacteria, produce GSH, and we show in the present work that representatives from these two groups (Escherichia coli, Beneckea alginolytica, Rhodospirillum rubrum, Chromatium vinosum, and Anabaena sp. strain 7119) lack significant glutathione peroxidase and glutathione S-transferase activities. This finding, coupled with the general absence of polyunsaturated fatty acids in procaryotes, suggests that GSH-dependent peroxidases evolved in eucaryotes in response to the need to protect against polyunsaturated fatty acid oxidation. A second antioxidant function of GSH is mediated by glutathione thioltransferase, which catalyzes the reduction of various cellular disulfides by GSH. Two of the five GSH-producing bacteria studied (E. coli and B. alginolytica) produced higher levels of glutathione thioltransferase than found in rat liver, whereas the activity was absent in the other three species studied. The halobacteria produce gamma-glutamylcysteine rather than GSH, and assays for gamma-glutamylcysteine dependent enzymes demonstrated an absence of peroxidase and S-transferase activities but the presence of significant thioltransferase activity. Based upon these results it appears that GSH and gamma-glutamylcysteine do not function in bacteria as antioxidants directed against organic hydroperoxides but do play a significant, although not universal, role in maintaining disulfides in a reduced state.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515296 TI - Subfamily structure and evolution of the human L1 family of repetitive sequences. AB - Comparative analysis of the available 3'-portions of the human L1 (LINE-1) family of repeated sequences indicates that all the sequences can be classified in two major subfamilies. The division is based on patterns of diagnostic bases shared within L1 subfamilies of sequences but differing between them. The overall ratio of replacement to synonymous positions, occupied by the diagnostic bases in the large open reading frame of the L1 sequence, is 1.15. This indicates that both subfamilies were obtained from genes coding for functional proteins. The L1 subfamilies appear to be of different ages and may represent a "fossil record" of the same active gene at different times in the history of primates. The younger subfamily can be split further into at least two closely related branches of sequences. The above facts combined with the recent data for the Alu subfamily structure show that LINE and SINE families of interspersed repeats share discontinuous patterns in their evolution. These data are consistent with the model that both Alu and L1 families, as well as other pseudogene families, contain active genes producing discrete layers of pseudogenes throughout the history of primates. Models of evolutionary processes that could generate these discontinuities are discussed together with the possible biological role of Alu and L1 genes. PMID- 2515294 TI - Sequence alignment and evolutionary comparison of the L10 equivalent and L12 equivalent ribosomal proteins from archaebacteria, eubacteria, and eucaryotes. AB - The genes corresponding to the L10 and L12 equivalent ribosomal proteins (L10e and L12e) of Escherichia coli have been cloned and sequenced from two widely divergent species of archaebacteria, Halobacterium cutirubrum and Sulfolobus solfataricus. The deduced amino acid sequences of the L10e and L12e proteins have been compared to each other and to available eubacterial and eucaryotic sequences. We have identified the human P0 protein as the eucaryotic L10e. The L10e proteins from the three kingdoms were found to be colinear. The eubacterial L10e protein is much shorter than the archaebacterial-eucaryotic proteins because of two large deletions, one internal and one at the carboxy terminus. The archaebacterial and eucaryotic L12e proteins were also colinear; the eubacterial protein is homologous to the archaebacterial and eucaryotic L12e proteins, but has suffered rearrangement through what appear to be gene fusion events. Intraspecies comparisons between L10e and L12e sequences indicate the archaebacterial and eucaryotic L10e proteins contain a partial copy of the L12e protein fused to their carboxy terminus. In the eubacteria most of this fusion has been removed by the carboxy terminal deletion. Within the L12e-derived region, a 26-amino acid-long internal modular sequence reiterated thrice in the archaebacterial L10e, twice in the eucaryotic L10e, and once in the eubacterial L10e was discovered. This modular sequence also appears to be present as a single copy in all L12e proteins and may play a role in L12e dimerization, L10e-L12e complex formation, and the function of L10e-L12e complex in translation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515298 TI - Population dynamics in a spin-glass model of chemical evolution. AB - We introduce a simple model describing the evolution of a population of information-carrying macromolecules. We discuss the asymptotic dependence of the variability of the population on different parameters, representing the severity or the fluctuations of the environment. We show the existence of a transition separating a neutralist evolutionary regime from a trapped one. We investigate the dependence of the evolutionary behavior of the population on the correlation properties of the fitness landscape. PMID- 2515297 TI - Maintenance of function without selection: Alu sequences as "cheap genes". AB - Continued insertion into the genome of functional Alu sequences is expected to compensate for the functional eclipse of older sequences attributable to structural adulteration and can be presumed to establish a renewable store of functional sequences at a relatively elevated numerical level. This store of functional sequences could be maintained at almost no selective cost. A strategy of maintaining function in multiple sequence copies with selection limited to a very few master (source) sequences may be resorted to also by other types of DNA sequences that are generated repeatedly during evolution and that are spread over many sectors of the genome. PMID- 2515299 TI - Effectiveness of measures requiring and not requiring prior sequence alignment for estimating the dissimilarity of natural sequences. AB - Various measures of sequence dissimilarity have been evaluated by how well the additive least squares estimation of edges (branch lengths) of an unrooted evolutionary tree fit the observed pairwise dissimilarity measures and by how consistent the trees are for different data sets derived from the same set of sequences. This evaluation provided sensitive discrimination among dissimilarity measures and among possible trees. Dissimilarity measures not requiring prior sequence alignment did about as well as did the traditional mismatch counts requiring prior sequence alignment. Application of Jukes-Cantor correction to singlet mismatch counts worsened the results. Measures not requiring alignment had the advantage of being applicable to sequences too different to be critically alignable. Two different measures of pairwise dissimilarity not requiring alignment have been used: (1) multiplet distribution distance (MDD), the square of the Euclidean distance between vectors of the fractions of base signlets (or doublets, or triplets, or ...) in the respective sequences, and (2) complements of long words (CLW), the count of bases not occurring in significantly long common words. MDD was applicable to sequences more different than was CLW (noncoding), but the latter often gave better results where both measures were available (coding). MDD results were improved by using longer mutliplets and, if the sequences were coding, by using the larger amino acid and codon alphabets rather than the nucleotide alphabet. The additive least squares method could be used to provide a reasonable consensus of different trees for the same set of species (or related genes). PMID- 2515300 TI - Average values of a dissimilarity measure not requiring sequence alignment are twice the averages of conventional mismatch counts requiring sequence alignment for a computer-generated model system. AB - Three measures of sequence dissimilarity have been compared on a computer generated model system in which substitutions in random sequences were made at randomly selected sites and the replacement character was chosen at random from the set of characters different from the original occupant of the site. The three measures were the conventional mismatch count between aligned sequences (AMC = m) and two measures not requiring prior sequence alignment. The latter two measures were the squared Euclidean distance between vectors of counts of t-tuples (t = 1 6) of characters in the two sequences (multiplet distribution distances or MDD = d) and counts of characters not covered by word structures of statistically significant length common to the two sequences (common long words or CLW = SIB, SIS, or SAB). Average MDD distances were found to be two times average mismatch counts in the simulated sequences for all values of t from 1 to 6 and all degrees of substitution from one per sequence to so many as to produce, effectively, random sequences. This simple relation held independently of sequence length and of sequence composition. The relation was confirmed by exact results on small model systems and by formal asymptotic results in the limit of so few substitutions that no double hits occur and in the limit of two random sequences. The coefficient of variation for MDD distances was greater than that for mismatch counts for singlets but both measures approached the same low value for sextets. Needleman-Wunsch alignment produced incorrect mismatch counts at higher degrees of substitution. The model satisfied the conditions for the derivation of the Jukes-Cantor asymptotic adjustment, but its application produced increasingly bad results with increasing degrees of substitution in accord with earlier results on model and natural sequences. This fact was a consequence of the increase with increasing degrees of substitution of the sensitivity of the adjustment to error in the observations. Average CLW distances for a variety of common word structures were more or less parallel to MDD distances for appropriately long t tuples. These results on model systems supported the validity of the two dissimilarity measures not requiring sequence alignment that was found in earlier work on natural sequences (Blaisdell 1989). PMID- 2515301 TI - Cardiopulmonary effects of ephedrine in halothane-anesthetized horses. AB - The cardiopulmonary effects of intravenous (i.v.) administration of the sympathomimetic drug ephedrine during two different levels of halothane anesthesia [end-tidal concentration of 1.37% (light anesthesia) and 2.1% (deep anesthesia)] were studied in eight horses. Anesthesia was induced and maintained using only halothane in O2. Ventilation was controlled to maintain a Paco2 of 38 42 mmHg. Following instrumentation and stabilization of the horse at the halothane concentration being studied, baseline measurements of cardiac output (Q), arterial blood pressure (AP), pulmonary artery pressure, heart rate, Pao2, Paco2 and pH were made. Ephedrine was then administered (0.06 mg/kg i.v.) and these measurements repeated at 10, 20, 30, 45 and 60 min after injection. At both doses of halothane there was a significant (P less than 0.05) increase in Q, stroke volume (SV), and systolic AP following ephedrine administration. In addition, at 2.1% halothane, ephedrine administration resulted in a significant (P less than 0.05) increase in mean AP and Pao2 and a decrease in total peripheral resistance. The increase in systolic AP, Q, and SV was significantly (P less than 0.05) greater at 2.1% halothane than at 1.37% halothane. Ephedrine administration to horses during both light and deep halothane anesthesia results in an increase in AP that is due to an increase in Q and SV. PMID- 2515302 TI - Prevention of yeast translocation across the gut by a single enteral feeding after burn injury. AB - Recently, burn injury has been shown to facilitate the ability of enteric Candida albicans (CA) to penetrate the gut epithelium and translocate to the mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN) during the first 24 hr after injury. Guinea pigs were given 3 X 10(10) CA intragastrically before inflicting a 50% burn to determine if a single enteral feeding could affect CA translocation to the MLN. A bolus infusion (20 kcal/kg, 12 ml in volume) of liquid meal, consisting of 68% carbohydrate, 20% protein, and 12% lipid, was administered either at 3-hr or 12-hr postburn. Control groups received no food or a similar amount of saline by bolus infusion. All animals were allowed water ad libitum until 24-hr postburn when their MLN and intestinal segments were harvested for enumeration of viable CA. Blood was also collected for determination of serum IgG, C3, cortisol, and albumin. Compared to nonfeed animals, those with a single enteral feeding at 12-hr postburn had reduced numbers of CA translocating to the MLN (970 +/- 220 vs 7,120 +/- 2,130 CFU/g, p less than 0.02) and colonizing in the ileum (27,000 +/- 6,770 vs 104,000 +/- 23,550 CFU/g, p less than 0.01). Bolus feeding at 12 hr was associated with a lower cortisol level (237 +/- 55% of normal controls) than bolus feeding at 3 hr (310 +/- 58, p less than 0.02) or the nonfed group (326 +/- 66, p less than 0.01). Regardless of dietary treatment, serum cortisol levels correlated positively with the extent to which CA translocated to the MLN and negatively with C3 levels. PMID- 2515304 TI - An analysis of factors contributing to the development of total parenteral nutrition-induced cholestasis. AB - The risk of developmental of total parenteral nutrition (TPN)-associated cholestatic jaundice in neonates receiving intravenous hyperalimentation is high. Numerous factors have been cited as contributing to TPN cholestasis; however, the exact etiology remains obscure. This retrospective study was undertaken in order to identify any factors which might contribute to this syndrome. The hospital records of 172 neonates requiring TPN for a minimum of 1 week were reviewed. In addition, a subgroup of 32 infants requiring TPN for a minimum of 7 weeks was also examined. Cholestasis was defined as a direct serum bilirubin greater than 2.0 mg/dl during the course of TPN therapy. Significant factors for the development of cholestasis in both groups (n = 172, n = 32) included: number of operations (2.56 vs. 1.08, p = 0.0000), the number of days the patients received antibiotics (40.3 vs 12.9, p = 0.0000), and delayed start of enteral feedings (33.8 vs 14.1, p = 0.0000). Fifteen of the 32 patients who received TPN for at least 7 weeks did not develop cholestasis. In this subgroup (n = 32), there were no differences in birth weight, gestational age, days from birth to the start of TPN, or respiratory distress between those who developed cholestasis and those who remained anicteric. In contrast, there were significant differences between the cholestasis and noncholestasis groups in number of operations (13 vs 6, p = 0.0407), and days until enteral feedings were started (33.1 vs 18.9, p = 0.0289). This study suggests that the factor(s) contributing to the development of TPN associated cholestasis are likely multifactorial. There appears to be a direct correlation between increasing severity of cholestatic jaundice and duration of TPN. This review does add a new parameter to the various causative factors suggested, namely the number of operative procedures. This new variable could be related to the stress of surgery itself or to the repeated administration of anesthetic agents. PMID- 2515303 TI - Maintenance of small bowel mucosa with glutamine-enriched parenteral nutrition. AB - Glutamine is an important fuel utilized by the intestinal mucosa that is not present in standard amino acid nutrition solutions. In order to determine the effects of glutamine on the intestine, glutamine enriched nutrition was administered intravenously to male Wistar rats. A standard amino acid solution was enriched with 1 and 2 g/100 ml of glutamine or glycine and used as part of a parenteral nutrition regime for 7 days. Intestinal samples were taken for measurements of jejunal weight, DNA, protein, mucosal thickness and villus height. Animals receiving 2 g glutamine/100 ml in the nutrition solution had increased intestinal weight, DNA, and villus height when compared to animals receiving 2 g/100 ml of glycine. No increase in the intestinal parameters was noted when 1 g/100 ml of glutamine was used. To investigate the dose-response effects of glutamine, further studies were performed using isonitrogenous and isocaloric solutions containing 0, 2, and 3 g of glutamine/100 ml. Animals receiving glutamine had a significant increase in mucosal weight, DNA, protein and villus height when compared to animals receiving no glutamine in the parenteral solutions. There was a dose-response relationship between the increase in jejunal DNA and the increased intake of glutamine (r = 0.93, p less than 0.01) but no correlation with the nitrogen content of the solutions (r = 0.18, p = 0.8). Total body nitrogen retention was greater in animals receiving 2 g/100 ml of glutamine (166 +/- 12 mg, days 6/7) when compared to those receiving 0 and 3 g of glutamine/100 ml (126 +/- 14 mg and 138 +/- 16 mg, respectively, p less than 0.05). These studies demonstrate that glutamine enriched nutrition protects against atrophy of the intestinal mucosa and when given at 2 g/100 ml improves nitrogen retention during intravenous feeding. PMID- 2515305 TI - Differential effects of parenteral nutrition on tumor growth and erythrocyte polyamine levels in the rat. AB - The influence of total parenteral nutrition (TPN) on tumor growth and erythrocyte polyamine levels was evaluated in rats with a transplantable fibrosarcoma or a Ward colon tumor. During the experimental periods the fibrosarcoma grows exponentially when rats are fed chow ad libitum while the colon tumor reaches a plateau of its Gompertzian growth curve. A 12-day regimen of TPN resulted in an increased growth of the colon tumor but not the fibrosarcoma. The erythrocyte putrescine levels of fibrosarcoma-bearing rats and the levels of putrescine, spermidine, and spermine of Ward colon-tumor-bearing rats were significantly increased by TPN compared with similarly treated nontumor-bearing (NTB) rats. When the growth of the fibrosarcoma was slowed by feeding a restricted intake (RI) regimen, a subsequent 6-day regimen of TPN resulted in increased tumor growth. Erythrocyte polyamine levels of fibrosarcoma-bearing, RI-rats were elevated by TPN repletion. There was a consistent, significant, interaction between TPN and tumor presence on the erythrocyte putrescine levels in fibrosarcoma-bearing rats and the levels of all polyamines in Ward colon-tumor bearing rats. The effects of TPN on tumor growth and erythrocyte polyamine levels of tumor-bearing rats may be dependent on the growth characteristics of the tumor. The data demonstrate that TPN consistently enhanced the tumor contribution to the erythrocyte putrescine pool. PMID- 2515306 TI - Influence of preoperative intravenous nutrition upon hepatic protein synthesis and plasma proteins and amino acids. AB - The influence of 3 and 7 days of preoperative intravenous nutrition (IVN) on the capacity for protein synthesis in liver and on concentrations of plasma proteins and amino acids were investigated in patients with gastrointestinal malignancy. Thirty patients with gastrointestinal neoplasms who had lost more than 5 kg of weight over 3 months were randomized into three groups to receive preoperatively: (a) no IVN, (b) IVN for 3 days (0.18 gN/kg/day as amino acid; 30 kcal/kg/day as glucose), or (c) IVN for 7 days. Free access to a hospital diet was available to all patients including 10 patients who had not lost weight who served as controls. In the three groups of patients who had lost weight, median transferrin and fibronectin were lower than for controls, whereas other proteins and amino acids were comparable. After feeding, samples of liver were obtained peroperatively and the potential rates of protein synthesis were calculated from the in vitro incorporation of (14C)-leucine, into protein. Preoperative IVN significantly increased the potential rate of protein synthesis in liver after 3 days. Plasma amino acids were comparable with controls whereas in the unfed-group concentrations suggested utilization of alanine and breakdown of muscle. Three days of IVN also increased plasma fibronectin and IgA but increases of prealbumin, IgM, and complement C3 were only significant in the group fed for 7 days. On the 7th postoperative day plasma proteins were decreased similarly in each group. This study shows that concentrations of several plasma proteins, in preoperative patients reflect net rates of hepatic protein synthesis and are susceptible to depletion during starvation and repletion by 3 or 7 days of IVN. PMID- 2515307 TI - Effects of overfeeding in children with muscle dystrophies. AB - In muscle dystrophies as in other muscle-wasting diseases and states, a progressive loss of muscle protein occurs, probably as a result of an imbalance between muscle protein synthesis and degradation. In the present study we examined whether this progressive muscle wasting and reduced functional capacity so damaging to patients with muscular dystrophies, can be reduced or even reversed by nightly overfeeding with 1000 ml of Osmolite in addition to the voluntary daytime dietary intake. In the Duchenne muscle dystrophy (DMD) group (six patients) body weight increased significantly accompanied by a 14% increase in midarm muscle circumference with only minimal changes in triceps skin fold, indicating a relative build up of muscle mass. In the congenital muscular dystrophy (CMD) group (four patients) no changes occurred in body weight or any of the three anthropometric measurements performed. Baseline nitrogen balance was mildly positive in both groups and improved significantly in the DMD group during the 3-month experimental period of refeeding, with no changes in urinary 3 methylhistidine excretion, suggesting improved muscle protein synthesis with no change in muscle protein degradation. No changes were detected in hematological and biochemical parameters, liver function tests, pulmonary function tests, or a general activity index during the study period. Our results suggest that a reduced rate of protein synthesis rather than an increased rate of protein degradation occur in muscle dystrophies, and that overfeeding might offer promising nutritional effects, at least in DMD patients. PMID- 2515308 TI - Intravenous fat emulsion acutely suppresses neutrophil chemiluminescence. AB - The immediate effect of intravenous fat emulsion on neutrophil oxidant release was studied. Opsonized nonencapsulated S. aureus was used to stimulate neutrophil activity. Luminol enhanced chemiluminescence was followed over 15 min and recorded as peak output (P; mV), integral under the curve (I; V-sec) and rate of increase (R; mV/sec). Eighteen chronically ill patients receiving glucose based total parenteral nutrition were studied before and after a 4- to 6-hr test infusion of 500 ml of 10% fat emulsion. P decreased from 719 +/- 46 to 461 +/- 42 mV (p less than 0.001), I decreased from 169 +/- 17 to 111 +/- 12 V-sec (p less than 0.001) and R decreased from 6.9 +/- 1.0 to 4.0 +/- 0.6 mV/sec (p less than 0.001). Preincubation of normal whole blood with fat emulsion in vitro did not adversely affect chemiluminescence (11 studies), nor did incubation of normal neutrophils with patient postinfusion plasma (10 studies). We conclude that fat emulsion infusion acutely suppresses neutrophil chemiluminescence. The suppression is not a direct effect of the fat emulsion per se and is not due to inhibitory substances in the plasma following infusion. PMID- 2515309 TI - Effects of intravenous fat infusion on neonatal neutrophil and platelet function. AB - Intravenous fat (Intralipid) is used extensively as a major component of parenteral nutrition for patients in the neonatal intensive care unit. Abnormalities of polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN) and platelet number or function related to Intralipid infusion have been reported although conflicting results exist. In order to examine potential adverse hematologic effects of Intralipid, 10 ill neonates were studied before and after a 16-hr infusion of 1 g/kilo of Intralipid. PMN count, chemokinesis, chemotaxis, and aggregation were unchanged pre- and post intralipid infusion. Platelet count, bleeding time, and platelet aggregation were also unchanged. Similar results were obtained in vitro when neonatal and adult PMNs and platelets were incubated in Intralipid and their function analyzed. These findings suggest that short-term, low-dose Intralipid has no measurable impact on neonatal PMN or platelet activity and support its use in neonates even in the presence of infection or thrombocytopenia. PMID- 2515310 TI - Lipid tolerance in the very low birth weight infant on intravenous and enteral feedings. AB - Nutrition is of critical importance to very low birth weight (VLBW) survival. Intravenous (iv) lipid tolerance has been studied using a soybean or safflower based lipid emulsion. We studied lipid levels in a group of VLBW infants on both intravenous lipids (soybean-safflower emulsion) and on enteral feedings (24 cal/oz premature formula). Levels were obtained on 1, 2, and 3 g/kg/day of iv lipid and after 3 and 10 days of feeding. Triglyceride (TG) and free fatty acid (FFA) proved the most sensitive indicator of both iv and enteral tolerance. The higher the lipid dose, the more likely there would be elevated lipid levels, especially FFA. Mean lipid levels for the group of enteral-fed infants were normal. Comparison of lipid levels on iv to those on enteral feedings showed significant differences in trough iv levels of TG compared to preprandial TG. FFAs tended to be significantly higher on iv feedings. Monitoring lipid levels on iv and enteral feedings is appropriate to document tolerance. PMID- 2515311 TI - Hyperalimentation-associated neonatal cholestasis: effect of oral gentamicin. AB - The effect of oral gentamicin on the incidence of parenteral nutrition-associated cholestasis in preterm infants less than 1500 g birth weight was assessed retrospectively. Of 24 patients on parenteral nutrition for more than 10 days, 12 infants who received oral gentamicin (group I) for prophylaxis against neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis were compared to 12 infants who did not (group II). Both mean and peak direct bilirubin levels were significantly higher in group II. The increase in both mean and peak direct bilirubin levels after initiation of total parenteral nutrition (TPN) was significant in group II only. The incidence of cholestasis was significantly higher in group II than in group I. These results suggest that oral gentamicin may have a protective effect against parenteral nutrition-associated cholestasis in the newborn preterm infant. PMID- 2515312 TI - Catheter obstruction: analysis of filter content of total nutrient admixture. AB - Catheter blockage in patients receiving long-term parenteral nutrition with fat containing total nutrient admixture (TNA) is a relatively common complication. A study was carried out to characterize the material which is filtered out of the TNA and is a potential cause of catheter blockage. A total of 45 bags containing the same TNA solution were stored for 7 days at 4 degrees C. The stability of the solution in all the bags was then confirmed by light microscope and Coulter Counter, to determine the particle-size distribution, following which the solution was filtered through a 5-microns filter. Chemical analysis was then made to determine the amount of solid particles, fat and precipitates of Mg, Zn, Ca, Na, and K in the filter contents. Each bag was found to contain 7326 +/- 2681 solid particles as plasticizers and the main component of the filter contents was fat (99.4%) whereas electrolytes as precipitates constituted less than 0.5%. The amount of fat and electrolytes lost on the filter from the solution was negligible. Our analysis of the material trapped on the filter, which may block the catheter during long-term therapy, suggests the importance of filtration and of finding a means for dissolving the fat, the main component of the filter material. PMID- 2515313 TI - Skin-level gastrostomies and jejunostomies for long-term enteral feeding. AB - Skin level gastrostomies and jejunostomies were used in 17 patients for long-term enteral feeding. These devices offer greater comfort to the patient and less potential complications and dysfunction compared to tube gastrostomies and jejunostomies. Placement of the skin level devices requires "mature" gastrocutaneous and jejunocutaneous fistulas. These fistulas can be created by initial placement of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomies and jejunostomies. PMID- 2515314 TI - Multiorgan failure from the inadvertent intravenous administration of enteral feeding. AB - Nasogastric tube-feeding was inadvertently administered parenterally to a 65-year old woman with chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Administration was discontinued after approximately 8 hr of infusion. The patient manifested acute renal failure, respiratory failure, hepatic insufficiency, and high-output septic shock requiring invasive hemodynamic monitoring, peritoneal dialysis, mechanical ventilation, and broad spectrum intravenous antibiotics. Blood cultures were positive for alpha-hemolytic Streptococcus, Staphylcoccus epidermidis, and Enterobacter cloacae while cultures of the enteral solution grew alpha-hemolytic Streptococcus, S. epidermidis, Pseudomonas vesiculare and unidentifiable coliforms. Aggressive management resulted in hospital discharge, although she eventually died of recurrent pneumonia and septicemia 111 days after the infusion. It is of paramount importance to be cognizant of this potential complication in any patient receiving enteral feeding who presents with the clinical picture of high-output septic shock. We discuss clinical features as well as treatment modalities necessary for a positive outcome. PMID- 2515315 TI - Subdural intravenous fat collection: an unusual complication of central intravenous feeding in the neonate. AB - We report on a very low birth weight preterm infant who developed a subdural collection of infusion lipid while receiving total parenteral nutrition. A possible mechanism is outlined. PMID- 2515316 TI - Microbiological monitoring of enteral nutrient solutions needed. PMID- 2515317 TI - Need for standardized units for formula comparison. PMID- 2515318 TI - [Effects of prostacyclin (PGI2) on the hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction in dogs]. AB - Effects of exogenous PGI2 on the hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction (HPV) were investigated by measuring %QLLL and the ratio of the left lower lobe blood flow (QLLL) to the total pulmonary blood flow (QT), in separately ventilated canine in vivo model. With PGI2 infusion, %QLLL, that had decreased from 20.7 +/- 1.9% to 4.1 +/- 1.1% by the hypoxic gas ventilation, gradually increased to 16.4 +/- 3.2% at the maximum dose (1.0 micrograms kg-1. min-1). Simultaneously both pulmonary artery pressure and PaO2 decreased significantly. Systemic blood pressure dropped markedly but cardiac output remained at the initial level. These results suggest that exogenous PGI2 improves the pulmonary circulation by reducing pulmonary hypertension induced with HPV, while PGI2 induces hypoxia by inhibiting HPV response and systemic hypotension by dilating the peripheral resistance vessels. Therefore, we have to consider these two opposite effects of PGI2 on its clinical application. PMID- 2515319 TI - [Clinical and pharmacokinetic evaluation of cefsulodin in neonates and young infants]. AB - Four neonates and young infants were treated with cefsulodin (CFS) at doses ranging from 20-25 mg/kg every 6 hours for 6.25 to 17 days, and clinical efficacy and side effects were evaluated. Among the 4 infants with bacterial infections including meningitis, bronchitis and pneumonia, the results were good in 2 patients with meningitis, but unknown in 2 patients because of additional use of gentamicin. One of the 4 patients had eosinophilia. Minimal inhibitory concentrations of CFS against 4 isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa were 1.56 against one and 12.5 micrograms/ml against other 3 strains with an inoculum size of 10(3) CFU. Serum concentrations of CFS were measured in one- and four-month old infants upon 25.3 and 20.9 mg/kg bolus intravenous injection of the antibiotic, respectively. The values were 36.4 and 33.4 at 30 minutes, and 5.1 and 3.2 micrograms/ml at 6 hours after injection, respectively. Serum half-lives were 1.89 and 1.69 hours, respectively. Total body clearances and volume distributions were 3.16 and 3.76 ml/min/kg, and 519.0 and 551.2 ml/kg, respectively. PMID- 2515320 TI - [Pharmacokinetics and clinical studies on cefsulodin in neonates]. AB - Pharmacokinetics and clinical studies on cefsulodin (CFS) were conducted in neonates. 1. MIC's of CFS, sulbenicillin and gentamicin (GM) were determined using 7 strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa clinically isolated from neonates and maintained as stock cultures. CFS was found to be nearly as active as GM. 2. When CFS 20 mg/kg was administered to a 12-day-old neonate by intravenous bolus injection, serum concentrations were 8.7 micrograms/ml before administration and 51.7 micrograms/ml at 30 minutes, 44.4 micrograms/ml at 1 hour, 38.6 micrograms/ml at 2 hours and 11.1 micrograms/ml at 6 hours after administration. The half-life was 2.5 hours. 3. CFS was administered alone or combination with other drugs to 3 neonates. The drug was clinically effective in 2 cases and slightly effective in another. Bacteriologically, one case was rated as decreased, another as replaced, and the remaining one as unchanged. 4. Neither side effects nor abnormal laboratory values attributable to CFS were found. PMID- 2515321 TI - [Pharmacokinetic studies on cefsulodin in perinatal period]. AB - Pharmacokinetic studies on cefsulodin (CFS) were carried out in perinatal mothers and infants. The results obtained are summarized as follows. 1. CFS was promptly absorbed upon intravenous drip infusion in pregnant women, producing dose-related peak serum levels. Placental transference to the fetus occurred quickly and at high levels. Upon intravenous drip infusion of 1-2 g of CFS, drug concentration of the cord blood and amniotic fluid exceeded MICs of clinically isolated strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These levels in cord blood ranged 3.3-16.9 micrograms/ml upon 1 g intravenous drip infusion and 0.8-21.6 micrograms/ml upon 2 g intravenous drip infusion, and in amniotic fluid they were 1.3-15.6 micrograms/ml upon 1 g administration and 5.5-17.9 micrograms/ml upon 2 g administration. The drug was transferred into newborn infant through placenta, showing no tendency to accumulate. According to the above results, it appears possible to successfully prevent or treat perinatal infections through administration of the dose of 1-2 g twice daily. 2. Moreover, newborn infants delivered from mothers receiving CFS administration showed no laboratory test abnormalities. 3. The penetration of CFS into mother's milk occurred at low levels, and the transference from milk to newborn infants appeared to occur at even low levels. The above results have demonstrated that CFS is a clinically useful antibiotic for prophylaxis and treatment of perinatal Pseudomonas infections. PMID- 2515322 TI - Inhibition of development of tolerance to nitroglycerin by preventive administration of N-acetylcysteine in rats. AB - The efficacy of N-acetylcysteine in reversing nitrate tolerance has been controversial. This study examined whether continuous administration of N acetylcysteine, a sulfhydryl compound, can prevent the development of tolerance to nitroglycerin; its acute effects on developed tolerance were also assessed. Rats were treated with subcutaneous injections of 1) 100 mg/kg nitroglycerin, 2) 100 mg/kg nitroglycerin and 700 mg/kg N-acetylcysteine, 3 times a day for 3 days. The sensitivity to nitroglycerin was studied in aortic preparations. The degree of developed tolerance to nitroglycerin was partially inhibited by simultaneous injection of N-acetylcysteine. Subsequent in vitro preincubation of aortic strips with nitroglycerin (10(-5) M) reduced the subsequent nitroglycerin sensitivity of vessels from rats treated with nitroglycerin and N-acetylcysteine; sensitivity returned to the initial control level after in vitro preincubation with N acetylcysteine. The nitroglycerin sensitivity of vessels from rats treated only with nitroglycerin, though, was not affected by in vitro preincubation with N acetylcysteine. In conclusion, N-acetylcysteine is not effective in reversing the high degree of tolerance developed to nitroglycerin. However, continuous administration of N-acetylcysteine is effective in preventing the development of nitroglycerin tolerance. PMID- 2515323 TI - [Clinical application of extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy to gallstone diseases]. PMID- 2515324 TI - [A study on evaluation of circulating anticoagulant in borderline cases]. AB - Detection of circulating anticoagulant (CA) is clinically important in patients with SLE, habitual abortion and other hemorrhagic and thrombotic disorders. We have studied CA in 83 patients with such disorders. Thirty-one of 83 (37%) had positive CA and 16 of 83 (19%) had negative CA, while 36 of 83 (44%) showed borderline pattern of CA. The experiment was undertaken to detect CA clearly in patients with borderline CA, by using diluted APTT or PT reagents. When we used 5% diluted reagent in APTT or 50% diluted reagent in PT, constant value of clotting time showed 1.8% or 1.2%, respectively. Seven of 10 with borderline CA cases tested here revealed positive CA by using diluted reagents. Furthermore 2 of remaining 3 with borderline CA cases showed positive anti-cardiolipin antibodies, suggesting of presence of lupus anticoagulants. These results suggest that CA in borderline cases should be considered to be positive and to be possibly derived from lupus anticoagulants. PMID- 2515325 TI - [The effects of various anticoagulants on blood coagulation: with special reference to false positive lupus anticoagulants]. AB - We studied the effects of heparin, dextran sulphate (MDS), gabexate mesilate (FOY), nafamostat mesilate (FUT-175) and argipidine (MD-805) on APTT, PT, thrombin time (TT) and kaolin-activated PTT (KPTT) with various concentrations of phospholipid for screening of lupus anticoagulants (LA). Heparin, MDS and FUT-175 had a greater effect on APTT than PT. On the contrary, MD-805 had a similar effect on both APTT and PT, which suggests that MD-805 inhibits thrombin generation equally on intrinsic and extrinsic coagulation pathways. Heparin and MD-805 were more effective on TT than MDS, FUT-175 and FOY at high concentrations significantly prolonged TT. But, at even higher concentrations of FUT-175, prolongation of TT was reduced contrary to our expectation. With FOY TT became less prolonged with a passage of time, suggesting time-dependent reduction of its anticoagulant activity. Heparin (0.1-0.2 U/ml) and MDS (0.1-0.3 mg/ml) did not have any effect on KPTT with high concentration of phospholipid, but did FUT-175. It suggests that phospholipid inhibits anticoagulant activity of heparin and MDS. Anti-phospholipid activity of heparin and MDS is similar to that of LA. We concluded that the differentiation of LA from heparin-like inhibitors is needed. PMID- 2515326 TI - Characterization of carbonic anhydrase-rich cells in the outer medullary collecting duct of rat kidney. PMID- 2515327 TI - [Immunologic evaluation in patients with lung cancer with special regard to peripheral blood natural killer cell activity and interleukin-2 productivity]. AB - Thirteen patients with lung cancer and 62 age-matched control subjects were investigated in this study (68.5 +/- 2.7 y.o. and 70.5 +/- 1.1 y.o. respectively). The peripheral blood natural killer (NK) cell activity of patients with lung cancer and control subjects was 59.3 +/- 4.4% and 69.3 +/- 1.8%, respectively. The NK cell activity in these patients was significantly lower than the NK activity of control subjects (p less than 0.05). The Interleukin-2 (IL-2) productivity of stimulated peripheral lymphocytes from patients with lung cancer was 4.96 +/- 0.99 unit, and from control subjects was 12.31 +/- 1.51 unit. When compared with control subjects, the IL-2 productivity in the patients with lung cancer was significantly lower (p less than 0.05). There were no differences in values of OKT series or OKT4/OKT8 ratio between these patients and control subjects. Ten of the 13 patients received schizophyllan intramuscularly once a week (40 mg/week). The NK cell activity was significantly increased on the second day after the second injection of schizophyllan, but there was no change in IL-2 productivity. We conclude that the peripheral blood NK cell activity and IL-2 productivity of patients with lung cancer was decreased. The antitumor polysaccharide, schizophyllan, temporarily raised the NK cell activity of these patients. PMID- 2515328 TI - Carbon dioxide-heart rate responses during hyperoxia, euoxia, and hypoxia. AB - We studied the steady state responses of heart rate (HR) to carbon dioxide inhalation under hyperoxic, euoxic, and hypoxic conditions in 9 healthy men. With increasing end-tidal PCO2, HR generally increased slightly. On the other hand, distinct increment in VE in response to step increase in end-tidal PCO2 was observed in all three different conditions. Significant positive correlation between hypercapnic VE and HR responsiveness was found in both hyperoxic and hypoxic conditions, whereas no such tendency was seen in euoxic condition. We suggest that the effect of CO2 inhalation on HR is mainly determined by the pulmonary inflation reflex in hyperoxia, the pulmonary inflation reflex plus peripheral chemoreceptor activity in euoxia, and the additional sympathetic and humoral factors in hypoxia, respectively. PMID- 2515329 TI - Inhibitory effects of ONO-3307 on various proteases and tissue thromboplastin in vitro and on experimental thrombosis in vivo. AB - The effect of ONO-3307 (4-sulfamoyl phenyl-4-guanidinobenzoate methanesulfonate), a new protease inhibitor, was studied on various proteases in vitro and in an experimental thrombosis model in vivo. ONO-3307 competitively inhibited trypsin, thrombin, plasma kallikrein, plasmin, pancreatic kallikrein and chymotrypsin; and their Ki values were 0.048 microM, 0.18 microM, 0.29 microM, 0.31 microM, 3.6 microM and 47 microM, respectively. In addition, ONO-3307 inhibited both elastase release from N-formyl-Met-Leu-Phe (fMLP)-stimulated leukocytes and tissue thromboplastin release from endotoxin-stimulated leukocytes. To examine the effects of ONO-3307 on disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), we developed an experimental thrombosis model. ONO-3307 (10 mg/kg/hr) completely inhibited the deposition of radioactive fibrin in kidney and lung. Gabexate mesilate (50 mg/kg/hr) was also effective in this model, but the effect of nafamostat mesilate was unclear. These results indicate that ONO-3307 exhibits a wide range of inhibitory effects on various proteases, and ONO-3307 may be useful for the treatment of protease-mediated diseases such as thrombosis and DIC. PMID- 2515331 TI - [Therapy against intractable respiratory infections with Pseudomonas aeruginosa]. AB - Patients with diffuse panbronchiolitis (DPB) are frequently affected by Pseudomonas aeruginosa superinfection. To elucidate the predisposing factors of Pseudomonas aeruginosa superinfection in patients with DPB, we analyzed the age of onset, duration of the disease, chest X-ray findings, blood gas levels, lung function, and bacteriological findings. These data were compared with those of patients who had not developed Pseudomonas aeruginosa superinfection. The administration of antibiotics and corticosteroids did not influence the incidence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa superinfection in DPB patients. The patients with long duration, more severe lung function and more deteriorated roentgenological findings developed Pseudomonas aeruginosa superinfection more easily. These infections in the lower respiratory tract significantly affect the prognosis of DPB patients. Using long-term administrations of a new quinolone antibacterial agent against DPB, acute exacerbations were controlled in some patients and the frequency of their admission to hospital was lessened. A multicomponent vaccine raised antibody titers against OEP, elastase, protease and exotoxin in DPB patients. Further clinical investigations are under way in our hospital to confirm the clinical usefulness of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa multicomponent vaccine in DPB from prophylactic and therapeutic points of view. PMID- 2515330 TI - [The role of cyclooxygenase products on bronchial responsiveness to methacholine in patients with sino-bronchial syndrome]. AB - The role of cyclooxygenase products on bronchial responsiveness to methacholine was studies in 9 patients with sino-bronchial syndrome. Provocative concentrations of methacholine, producing a 20% fall in forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1)(PC20-FEV1) and a 35% fall in inverse respiratory resistance (Grs) (PC35-Grs), were measured before and after oral administration of a thromboxane synthetase inhibitor (OKY-046) and a cyclooxygenase inhibitor (indomethacin). Baseline values of FEV1 and respiratory resistance (Rrs) were not altered by OKY-046 or indomethacin. Geometric mean values of PC20-FEV1 and PC35 Grs were significantly (p less than 0.005 and p less than 0.05) increased from 2.19 mg/ml (GSEM, 1.58) and 0.79 mg/ml (GSEM, 1.70) to 8.13 mg/ml (GSEM, 1.92) and 1.55 mg/ml (GSEM, 1.38) by indomethacin, whereas these values were not significantly increased by OKY-046. These findings indicate that not thromboxane A2 but bronchoconstricting prostaglandins may play a role in bronchial hyperresponsiveness in sino-bronchial syndrome. PMID- 2515332 TI - [Effects of hypopressure on blood gases and spirograms of patients suffering from chronic respiratory failure]. AB - We examined the effects of hypopressure on blood gases and spirograms of patients suffering from chronic respiratory failure, and compared them with those of normal subjects, using the environmental control unit (ECU). The patients consisted of 2 with idiopathic interstitial pneumonia (IIP), 1 with pulmonary fibrosis due to RA, 3 with bronchiectasis, 2 with chronic bronchitis and 1 with diffuse panbronchiolitis (DPB). We examined their blood gases and spirograms under the condition of 760 mmHg pressure, 25 degrees C temperature and 60% humidity. Then the pressure of ECU decreased to 670 mmHg in 20 minutes, while the temperature and humidity were kept the same. The patients stayed in the hypopressured ECU for 1 hour, and were reexamined. The pressure of 670 mmHg is that of an altitude of about 1,000 m and that of the cabin pressure of commercial aircraft flying at about 9,000 m. The PaO2 of the patients decreased from 74.7 +/ 13.8 torr to 61.8 +/- 9.5 torr significantly. We found, however, the significant decrease of PaO2 in normal subjects from 97.2 +/- 7.8 torr to 80.4 +/- 6.5 torr under the same conditions. The rates of the decreased gases were almost same in both groups. Some patients showed remarkable decreases in VC and FEV1.0 under the hypopressure. No patients or control subject complained of subjective symptoms. PMID- 2515333 TI - [A clinical study of terminal pneumonia]. AB - A total of 210 cases of terminal pneumonia were studied out of 1183 autopsied cases at Tenri Yorozu Hospital from 1978 to 1985. Underlying diseases included lung cancer (77 patients), gastric cancer (26 patients), leukemia (24 patients). There was no statistical significance between the time from death until autopsy and the bacterial examination of autopsied lung and blood. P. aeruginosa and Klebsiella sp. were the most frequently isolated organisms. Seventy percent of isolated organisms were gram negative bacilli. In spite of administration of antibiotics, bacteria isolated from specimens before death were sometimes the same as the one isolated from specimens after death. In addition it was recognized that multiple intensive examinations of sputum are necessary for rapid diagnosis of pneumonia. It was also noted that the longer the duration of antibiotic administration, the more frequently P. aeruginosa was isolated. Finally the possibility of pneumonia should be kept in mind in compromised hosts. PMID- 2515334 TI - [A case of pulmonary sarcoidosis with CD8 positive cell dominant alveolitis]. AB - A 55-year-old woman was admitted for examination of bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy. Serum angiotensin converting enzyme was not elevated, but gallium-scan revealed an increased uptake in both lung hilus. The percentage of lymphocytes in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was elevated (28.9%), and the proportion of OKIa1 positive cells was also elevated (50.5%). However, the ratio of cluster differentiation (CD) 4/8 was inverted at 0.5. Microscopic examination of the mediastinal lymph nodes revealed epithelioid cell granulomas without ceasation, and a diagnosis of sarcoidosis was made. Immunohistochemical examination of the lymph nodes showed predominancy of CD8 positive cells. Patients with pulmonary sarcoidosis having a low CD4/8 ratio in BALF are extremely rare in the early stage of sarcoidosis. The inverted CD4/8 ratio was of interest in regard to the pathogenesis of sarcoidosis. PMID- 2515335 TI - [CT analysis of pulmonary emphysematous and fibrotic changes in patients with von Recklinghausen's disease]. AB - Five cases of von Recklinghausen's disease were studied with regard to their association with chest diseases, especially pulmonary emphysematous and fibrotic changes. CT analysis revealed that four patients out of five had multiple pulmonary emphysematous lesions and that those lesions were seen in all segments. In two cases out of the four, it was difficult to detect their abnormalities by an ordinary chest roentgenogram, suggesting the possibility of higher incidence of emphysematous changes in von Recklinghausen's disease than has been expected. On the other hand, pulmonary fibrosis was observed in two cases. There were two patients who had no fibrosis but emphysematous lesions. TBLB was performed in one case, in whom no fibrotic changes were observed. Usually pulmonary fibrosis is associated with emphysematous bullae in patients with von Recklinghausen's disease. However, fibrotic and emphysematous changes may not always occur in combination in von Recklinghausen's disease. PMID- 2515336 TI - [Studies on the prevention of postoperative thrombosis with a small dose of recombinant human tissue-type plasminogen activator]. AB - In order to prevent the thrombosis on foreign materials after the cardiovascular operation, the effect of a small dose of recombinant human tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA) on the prosthetic material was examined. A polyvinyl chloride tube was inserted into the left atrium of 12 rabbits. In six animals (group I), t-PA of 2.6 mg was injected into the right atrium, and no drug was used in other six animals (group II) as the control. Polyvinyl-chloride tube was removed from each animal 24 hours after implantation. In the medicated group, no thrombus was found in the tube, however, heavy thrombus formation was recognized around the tube in the control group. No clotting abnormality was shown in the medicated group. The results of this study demonstrate that t-PA will have a remarkable benefit in the prevention of thrombosis on the foreign substance in the cardiovascular system. PMID- 2515337 TI - Preliminary study of buffalo sperm penetration into zona-free hamster eggs after treatment with calcium ionophore A23187. PMID- 2515338 TI - [Production of monoclonal antibodies for Mycobacterium tuberculosis Aoyama-B and immunological activity of the affinity-purified antigens]. AB - Nine hybridomas of BALB/c mouse, producing monoclonal antibodies (MAb: MTA 1-9) directed to Mycobacterium tuberculosis AOYAMA-B (M. tbc AB), were established. The MAbs reacted to M. tbc AB antigens, forming a main band of 32 KD, 24 KD or 19 KD on immunoblotting, except MTA 1 that reacted with 58 KD in addition to 32 KD antigen. Immunoglobulin isotypes of MAbs were IgM, IgG 1 or IgG 2b. On a mode of reactivity of ELISA against various mycobacterial antigens, MAbs were divided into two categories: those reacting to human type mycobacterial antigens alone and those reacting both to the human and non-human type. The MAbs could further be classified into 4 groups by subtle discrimination of ELISA reactivity to the antigens. Three kind of MAb-affinity-purified antigens (MAb-Ag) from M. tbc AB were obtained. Immunogenic activities of the three MAb-Ags, together with that of control PPDs were examined. Every MAb-Ag showed positive reaction in ELISA, DTH skin test and [3H]TdR incorporation of lymphnode cells, on M. tbc AB sensitized rabbit, guinea pig and rat, respectively, with almost equal level of those of PPDs. However, in some occasions, MAb-Ags positively reacted in animals primed by non-human type mycobacteria. It was discussed that whether a homogeneous antigen like MAb-Ag, bearing limited number of epitopes, could be as immunogenic as PPDs consisting of multi-components. PMID- 2515339 TI - [Complications in tuberculous patients--with special reference to secondary mixed infections]. AB - An attempt was made to elucidate the mechanism which makes pulmonary tuberculosis intractable. Patients with pulmonary tuberculosis were divided into the following two groups; one group consisted of patients (n = 37) in which tubercle bacilli converted to negative within 6 months after the institution of anti-tuberculous chemotherapy and remained negative thereafter, and the other group (n = 21) in which tubercle bacilli persisted in spite of long-term chemotherapy. A comparison was made on serum factors and blood cell components, which were linked with humoral and cellular immunity respectively, between the above two groups of tuberculosis patients. As the result, reductions was observed in the ratio of serum albumin to globulin and increase in erythrocytes sedimentation rate and in amount of immunosuppressive acidic proteins in the chronic bacillary cases as compared with the patients in which negative conversion of bacilli had been achieved. A depressed cellular immunity was also found in the former group of the patients as evidenced with the reduction in a ratio of helper/inducer T lymphocytes to suppressor/cytotoxic T lymphocytes and in intensity of skin reaction to PPD. The depressed humoral and cellular immunity observed in chronic bacillary cases were one of possible causes of intractability of the disease and also the major cause of the frequent involvement with pulmonary infections with pathogens other than tubercle bacilli. At the second part, a problem in treating patients with both lung cancer and pulmonary tuberculosis was discussed, since iatrogenic immunosuppression was induced almost unavoidably by the use of anticancer agents.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515340 TI - [Coronary spasm]. PMID- 2515341 TI - Localization of aldose and aldehyde reductase in the kidney. AB - The distribution of NADPH-dependent reductase activity in the rat cortex, outer medulla and inner medulla was investigated through biochemical and histochemical methods. Biochemical studies revealed reductase activity to be present in all three regions of the kidney with the highest specific activity observed in the inner medulla, followed by the cortex and the outer medulla. Activity in all three regions was inhibited by the aldose reductase inhibitors sorbinil, tolrestat and 7-hydroxychromone-2-carboxylic acid. Based on substrate utilization and response to sulfate on the inhibitors, the inner medulla contains primarily aldose reductase (EC 1.1.1.21) while the cortex contains primarily aldehyde reductase (EC 1.1.1.2). The outer medulla contains a mixture of both enzymes. This distribution was confirmed by a radioimmunoassay for aldose reductase. Immunohistochemical investigations of the rat kidney with antibodies against rat lens aldose reductase and rat kidney aldehyde reductase revealed a similar distribution of these enzymes. Aldehyde reductase was immunohistochemically detected only in the cortex where it was localized in the proximal convoluted tubules. Immunoreactive aldose reductase was detected in Henle's loop at both the inner stripe of the outer medulla and in the inner medulla, and in the collecting tubules and the epithelial cell lining the pelvis of the inner medulla near the papilla. No specific immunohistochemical staining for aldose reductase was observed in the cortex. A similar immunohistochemical distribution of aldose reductase was also observed in the human kidney with antibodies against human placental aldose reductase. PMID- 2515342 TI - A prospective, randomized therapeutic trial for schistosomal specific nephropathy. AB - In this work 26 patients with schistosomal specific nephropathy were randomly distributed among three groups. Group I cases were given anti-schistosomal drugs (oxamniquine and praziquantel), group II cases were given anti-schistosomal drugs plus prednisolone, and group III cases were given anti-schistosomal drugs plus cyclosporine. The schistosomal specificity of kidney lesions was assessed by detecting the schistosomal specific antigens (CAA and CCA) and antibodies deposited in the renal glomeruli of these patients. Patients who had another etiologic cause which may explain their kidney disease were not admitted to this study. After initiation of the treatment, patients were followed up every other week in the outpatient clinic for 12 months. Follow-up showed complete remission of proteinuria in two cases in group II (duration of remission was 4 and 8 months) and in one case in group III (duration of remission was 6 months) but in none in group I. Partial remission was observed in one case in group I, in three cases in group II and in one case in group III. During the observation period, improvement in kidney function was observed in two cases in group II but deterioration in kidney function was observed in one case in group I and in one other case in group III. We conclude that in patients with schistosomal nephropathy, none of the tried therapeutic regimens produce regression of the disease if given to patients with established disease. PMID- 2515343 TI - [Errors in the diagnosis of spontaneous rupture of esophageal diverticulum]. PMID- 2515344 TI - [Hiatal hernia associated with chronic calculous cholecystitis and appendiceal diverticulosis]. PMID- 2515345 TI - [Esophageal cyst, accessory pulmonary lobe and duodenal diverticulum]. PMID- 2515346 TI - [Surgical debridement of wounds in children using CO2 laser]. AB - Experience in the use of the CO2 laser beam in complex surgical debridement of primary traumatic wounds in 77 children showed that in a power density range of 15 to the Wt/cm2 it led to a sharp decrease of microbial dissemination in the wound and in 81.3% of cases to sterility of the wound surface. Carbon-dioxide laser radiation has an effect on the surface leucocytic-necrotic layer, replacing it with a narrow zone of thermal coagulation necrosis, and on the polymorphonuclear leucocytes lying in the thickness of the tissue of the wound wall at different depths. As compared to the control group of patients (86 children with 91 wounds), the incidence of suppurations reduced from 14.2 to 2.6%. PMID- 2515347 TI - [Acute appendicitis in sliding hernia in a child with hemophilia]. PMID- 2515349 TI - [Restoration of sinus rhythm after correction of ketoacidosis]. PMID- 2515348 TI - Platelet volume parameters as a diagnostic tool: the influence of anticoagulation and storage conditions on platelet impedance volume. AB - Rapid progress has been made in the design of aperture impedance cell counters, and parameters such as mean platelet volume and platelet distribution width have become routinely available to most physicians. Platelet volume is influenced by both platelet production in the bone marrow and platelet activation or sequestration in the circulation. In thrombocytopenic patients, it is often possible to differentiate between megakaryocytic and amegakaryocytic disease states on the basis of platelet volume analysis. In patients with thrombocytosis, a myeloproliferative disorder may be suspected if the platelet distribution width is high. However, the conditions of sample preparation and storage still give rise to considerable inaccuracy in the determination of platelet volume parameters. In this study, platelet impedance volume was strongly influenced by anticoagulation, storage time, and incubation temperature. Changes in platelet volume were more pronounced in whole blood than in platelet rich plasma. However, mainly large platelets were lost during the preparation of platelet rich plasma. Collecting blood directly into a mixture of citrate and low dose glutaraldehyde stabilized platelet volume for up to 2 h after venipuncture at room temperature. This method reduces platelet volume changes in vitro and is in this respect superior to the usual EDTA blood count or the use of platelet-inhibitory agents. PMID- 2515350 TI - [Position of the German Nursing Federation towards the wage agreement and the new version of schedule 1b for nursing employees from June 30, 1989]. PMID- 2515351 TI - [Challenges and problems in nursing research]. PMID- 2515352 TI - [Importance of respiration for nursing and presentation of a measuring device for the assessment of respiratory hazards or impairment]. PMID- 2515353 TI - [Who earns how much?]. PMID- 2515354 TI - [Retirement of Margit Frantz, manager of the Baden-Wurttemberg section of the German Nursing Federation]. PMID- 2515355 TI - [The situation in nursing schools. Results of an inquiry in the German Federal Republic]. PMID- 2515356 TI - [Nursing in the nineties]. PMID- 2515358 TI - [Is maintenance of quality in nursing still possible?]. PMID- 2515357 TI - [Infrastructures of nursing in the workplace--hospital 2000]. PMID- 2515359 TI - [Nursing in the nineties. Notes on the presentations of the nursing federations]. PMID- 2515360 TI - [The essential point in health care and nursing: the decision]. PMID- 2515361 TI - [Nursing competence--documented by the example of patient discharge planning]. PMID- 2515362 TI - [The use of aides in outpatient nursing]. PMID- 2515363 TI - [The health reform law and the paragraphs important for outpatient care]. PMID- 2515365 TI - [German-Turkish student exchange at the Kassel community hospital]. PMID- 2515364 TI - [Ascertaining the requirements for personnel in the nursing service. Analytical concept--summary of the German Nursing Association's pamphlet of the same name]. PMID- 2515366 TI - [May the specialized colonoscopy personnel insert and use the colonoscope without monitoring?]. PMID- 2515367 TI - Deficit of uridine diphosphate galactose in galactosaemia. AB - The levels of uridine diphosphate galactose (UDPGal) and uridine diphosphate glucose (UDPGlc) have been determined in liver autopsy samples, erythrocytes and cultured skin fibroblasts from galactosaemic patients and compared to non galactosaemic controls. In patients with undetectable erythrocyte galactose-1 phosphate uridyltransferase (transferase) activity, the levels of UDPGal were substantially lower than in controls. In patients with detectable transferase activity, even though in less than 1% of normal values, both UDPGal and UDPGlc levels were in the normal range. Incubation of erythrocytes from both galactosaemic patients and normal individuals with 10 mmol/L uridine increased UDPGal and UDPGlc levels several-fold, both in the presence or absence of galactose in the incubation medium. We hypothesize that a deficit of UDPGal is responsible for the late onset clinical manifestations in galactosaemia which include ovarian failure, speech defect and neurological abnormalities. We suggest that uridine administration may be of therapeutic value in raising the intracellular concentrations of UDPGal. We conclude that the transferase reaction, however small in activity, is essential for optimal UDPGal formation. PMID- 2515368 TI - Use of placental enzyme analysis in assessment of the newborn at risk for non ketotic hyperglycinaemia (NKH). AB - The incidence of non-ketotic hyperglycinaemia (NKH), McKusick 23830, in the population of British Columbia, Canada was found to be the same as that reported for Finland. We present the plasma glycine levels in ten non-ketotic hyperglycinaemia patients and outline difficulties in interpreting plasma glycine levels in their newborn siblings. We propose the use of a placental glycine cleavage enzyme (EC 2.1.1.10) assay to rule out a diagnosis of non-ketotic hyperglycinaemia in at-risk infants during the first few days of life. PMID- 2515370 TI - Crigler-Najjar type II disease inheritance: a family study. AB - The inheritance of Crigler-Najjar type II disease is still contested. Autosomal dominant transmission with incomplete penetrance and autosomal recessive transmission have been proposed. We had the opportunity to study the hepatic activity of bilirubin uridinediphosphate glucuronyltransferase in parents whose first child had been affected by Crigler-Najjar type II disease. The demonstration of reduced activity of glucuronidation in the liver of both parents suggests autosomal recessive inheritance. The second infant of this couple was affected by the same disease and was treated with success by phenobarbital. PMID- 2515369 TI - Inheritance and prevalence of von Willebrand's disease severe form in a Brazilian population. AB - Reviewed data suggest that the prevalence of severe von Willebrand's disease is influenced by ethnic and geographic factors. In the State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, seven genealogies in which 11 individuals had a severe expression of von Willebrand's disease were localized. These affected subjects had similar laboratory results and all of them seemed to have resulted from double genetic defects, but the genealogic examination revealed that four of them probably resulted from combinations of autosomal recessive genes, while in the remaining the presence of dominant genes was likely and the involvement of genes for types I or II of von Willebrand's disease was possible. All of their examined relatives were asymptomatic but some of them presented unusual laboratory results, indicative of heterozygosis. The prevalence of severe cases in the surveyed population was higher than expected even when only the recessive forms were considered. It entered the expected values when it was presumed that these were all the cases currently living in the State. Genetic heterogeneity of the severe form was confirmed and it is suggested that the designations 'severe von Willebrand's disease' and 'type III von Willebrand's disease' should not be used as synonyms. PMID- 2515371 TI - Normal growth and development with unrestricted protein intake after severe infantile propionic acidaemia. AB - A child with propionic acidaemia, after a stormy infantile course complicated by microcephaly, has shown normal subsequent growth and development without dietary protein restriction. PMID- 2515372 TI - Holocarboxylase synthetase deficiency: 9-year follow-up of a patient on chronic biotin therapy and a review of the literature. AB - We report on the long-term medical and neurodevelopmental follow-up of a patient with the rare and potentially lethal disease, holocarboxylase synthetase deficiency. He was originally treated prenatally with biotin megatherapy and for 9 years with 6 mg/day since his only episode of fulminant acidosis at 3 months of age. While growth and general health have been normal, the patient has exhibited signs of minimal brain dysfunction. However, evaluation of unaffected siblings suggests that this may be unrelated to his metabolic disease. A review of the literature and recommendations for optimal treatment are provided. PMID- 2515374 TI - Dermatoglyphic study in children with phenylketonuria. AB - Dermatoglyphic findings in 19 patients with phenylketonuria (11 male and 8 female), 39 of their relatives (18 female and 21 male) and 500 controls (TRC) were not statistically significant among the three groups studied. There was no definite relationship between the phenylketonuric gene and the dermatoglyphic patterns. The parents of half the phenylketonuria cases are not consanguineous; thus the phenylketonuria gene may be more frequent in Turkey than other European countries. PMID- 2515373 TI - The effect of ethanol on glucose production in phosphorylase b kinase deficiency. AB - Glucose production was measured using stable isotopic techniques in two patients with phosphorylase b kinase deficiency before and after oral ethanol (0.75 g/kg). Glucose production was normal before the ethanol. In one patient, who did not take the full dose of ethanol, glucose production rose initially and then fell. In the other, glucose production fell steadily and in both patients blood lactate concentrations rose. Blood glucose concentrations decreased. Patients with this enzyme deficiency are dependent on the gluconeogenic pathway when fasting and, therefore, ethanol may be potentially hazardous. PMID- 2515375 TI - Alkaptonuria in a Chinese baby. PMID- 2515376 TI - A Chinese case of Wolman disease. PMID- 2515377 TI - A new case of holocarboxylase synthetase deficiency. PMID- 2515378 TI - A fourth case of fumarase deficiency. PMID- 2515379 TI - 3-Methylglutaconic aciduria: neonatal onset with lactic acidosis. PMID- 2515380 TI - Glutaric aciduria type I: prenatal exclusion using GC-MS analysis of amniotic fluid and enzymology with oxidation of [6-14C]lysine. PMID- 2515381 TI - Hepatic phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase deficiency: a neonatal case with reduced activity of pyruvate carboxylase. PMID- 2515383 TI - Isolated biotin-resistant 3-methylcrotonyl-CoA carboxylase deficiency presenting as a Reye syndrome-like illness. PMID- 2515382 TI - Requirement of high biotin doses in a case of biotinidase deficiency. PMID- 2515384 TI - 3-Hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A lyase deficiency. PMID- 2515385 TI - 3-Hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA-lyase deficiency. PMID- 2515386 TI - Neonatal screening for biotinidase deficiency. A pilot study in Scotland. PMID- 2515387 TI - Psychological effects on parents of children with early detected phenylketonuria. PMID- 2515388 TI - Study of a female patient with ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency: detection of a nonsense mutation. PMID- 2515389 TI - Deduced amino acid sequence of human prolidase and molecular analyses of prolidase deficiency. PMID- 2515390 TI - Differently deleted mitochondrial genomes in maternally inherited chronic progressive external ophthalmoplegia. PMID- 2515392 TI - School nurses: saving an endangered species. PMID- 2515391 TI - Cloning of a defective gene encoding the pyruvate dehydrogenase E1 alpha subunit from a patient with its deficiency. PMID- 2515393 TI - Screening of blood and urine for drugs of abuse utilizing diagnostic products corporation's Coat-A-Count radioimmunoassay kits. AB - Solid-phase radioimmunoassay methods for the uniform analysis in hemolyzed whole blood and urine of opiates, methamphetamine, cocaine, free morphine, and phencyclidine using Coat-A-Count kits available from Diagnostic Products Corporation were tested for cost effectiveness without compromising the reliability of the results. Results indicate these kits are superior in performance in cross-reactivity studies, noted particularly in the methamphetamine assay, labor conservation, and cost-effectiveness to double antibody radioimmunoassay methods. PMID- 2515394 TI - Long-acting estrogenic responses of estradiol fatty acid esters. AB - Estradiol esters at C-17 and C-3 with palmitic, stearic and oleic acids were chemically synthesized and then evaluated for their long-acting estrogenic responses in ovariectomized rats. The duration of the biological effects was measured after a single subcutaneous dose of 0.1 mumol of each ester and compared with those observed with 17 beta-estradiol, estradiol 3-benzoate and estradiol 17 enanthate. Vaginal citology, uterophyc action, serum gonadotropins inhibition and 17 beta-estradiol levels were measured 0, 5, 10, 20, 30 and 60 days after injection. The results disclosed that most of the estradiol derivatives evaluated exhibited a long-acting estrogenic action. However, the monoesters at C-17 showed longer effects that monoesters at C-3, while the estradiol diesters exhibited the shortest effects. In addition as shown by its low serum levels, all estradiol esters with unsaturated fatty acids show a decreased E2 absorption. The overall results indicated that esterification of E2 with long chain fatty acids provided long-acting properties to it, being higher with C-17 esters. Whether some of these compounds could be employed in substitutive endocrine therapy remains to be established. PMID- 2515395 TI - Do pharmacological methods for the quantification of agonists work when the ternary complex mechanism operates? AB - It is well established that many receptors couple to G-proteins in order to subserve their pharmacological or physiological effects. In those systems it is possible that a ternary complex mechanism operates in which initiation of an effect depends on the concentration of agonist-receptor-G-protein complex formed. Such systems may be considered to obey a receptor-transducer model (Black & Leff, 1983, Proc. R. Soc. B220, 141). A theoretical analysis of this model is presented which seeks to determine how the operation of the ternary complex mechanism affects the quantification of agonists by conventional pharmacological methods. Previous analyses have concluded that pharmacological models may or may not accommodate the ternary complex mechanism depending upon the relationship between the relative concentrations of receptor and transducer units, [R0], and [T0] respectively. The present study extends these in two ways. It considers the impact of the ternary complex mechanism on agonist quantification under a more complete range of conditions relating [R0] and [T0], and it does so with regard to the analysis of partial agonists (by the comparative method) as well as of full agonists (by the method of receptor inactivation). The following predictions are made: (i) reliable estimates of affinity and efficacy can be made using the comparative method under the conditions [R0] much greater than [T0] and [R0] much less than [T0] whereas the inactivation method only works under the former condition; (ii) errors occur in the estimation of affinity and efficacy by both methods when [R0] = [T0] although better estimates are produced by the comparative method; (iii) when errors occur in the absolute estimation of affinity and efficacy, the orders of affinity and efficacy determined by the comparative method will generally be correct but this is not the case for the inactivation method; (iv) in general, the comparative method for agonist quantification appears to produce more reliable information for the purposes of receptor classification and medicinal chemistry than does the receptor inactivation method. PMID- 2515396 TI - Evaluation of the gastric antiulcerogenic effects of Solanum nigrum, Brassica oleracea and Ocimum basilicum in rats. AB - Antiulcerogenic activities of three plant drugs were studied against aspirin induced gastric ulcers in rats. In addition, their effects on output of gastric acid and pepsin and hexosamine concentrations in gastric fluid were recorded in ulcerated and non-ulcerated rats. Solanum nigrum (aerial parts) powder and its methanolic extract decreased the ulcer index significantly. The activity may be due to inhibition of acid and pepsin secretions and/or their in vitro ability to bind these. Brassica oleracea (leaf) powder did not affect the ulcer index significantly but its aqueous extract lowered the index and increased hexosamine levels, suggesting gastric mucosal protection. Ocimum basilicum (aerial parts) powder and its aqueous and methanolic extracts decreased the index. Moreover, the acid output was decreased by its methanolic extract while hexosamine secretion was enhanced. This suggests that its antiulcerogenic effect is due to decreases of acid and pepsin outputs which enhance gastric mucosal strength. The reference drug gefarnate decreased the ulcer index by increasing the hexosamine level only. Cimetidine inhibited the acid production but did not decrease the ulcer index. PMID- 2515397 TI - Inhibition of chemical carcinogenesis by curcumin. PMID- 2515398 TI - Mechanisms of blood pressure regulation by magnesium in man. AB - In order to determine the effect and mechanism of Mg on vascular tone, a 3-hour infusion of Mg (200 mg/h) was administered to normal subjects. The Mg infusion resulted in a drop in blood pressure (BP), a rise in renal blood flow, and an increase in urinary 6-keto-PGF1 alpha excretion. Cyclooxygenase inhibition with indomethacin and the calcium channel blocker, nifedipine, prevented these vascular effects of Mg. These data suggest that prostacyclin release via changes in Ca2+ flux may be the mechanism of Mg vasodilatory action. Since angiotensin II (AII) acts via the Ca2+ messenger system, we also studied the effects of Mg loading and dietary Mg depletion on AII responses. Mg loading blunted the rise in BP and the aldosterone-stimulating effect of AII, whereas Mg depletion significantly enhanced these AII effects. These results support the hypothesis that Mg may be an antagonist of the pressor and steroidogenic effects of AII. PMID- 2515399 TI - Effects of oestrogen therapy and orchidectomy on coagulation and prostanoid synthesis in patients with prostatic cancer. AB - Twenty patients with prostatic carcinoma were randomized to therapy with either oestrogens (n = 10) or orchidectomy (n = 10). Activators and inhibitors of coagulation were studied before treatment, 1.5 months and 6 months after the start of treatment. We found that the patients in the oestrogen group had already increased their factor VII level after 1.5 months (P less than 0.001) and this increased level persisted after 6 months. Factor X tended to increase after 1.5 months and this increase reached significance after 6 months (P less than 0.01). In the orchidectomy groups there was a significant increase in factor X at 6 months (P less than 0.01) and, in addition, antithrombin III (AT III) was increased at this time. Furthermore, there was a parallelism between the increase in factor VII and electrocardiographic evidence of increased coronary insufficiency (r = 0.60; P less than 0.025; n = 15). We found a significant increase of thromboxane as evidenced by the major urinary metabolite 2,3 dinorthromboxane B2 in the oestrogen group as compared to the orchidectomy group. In summary, patients with prostatic cancer during long-term oestrogen treatment were found to have increased levels of factor VII, factor VIII:C and fibrinogen. In addition these patients showed increased formation of thromboxane. The changes imply a hypercoaguable state and platelet activation. No such signs were found after orchidectomy. The findings in the oestrogen group might explain the continuously increased risk of cardiovascular complications during long-term oestrogen therapy. PMID- 2515400 TI - Buserelin treatment of advanced prostatic cancer: a phase II study. AB - From August 1986 to September 1988, 76 eligible patients with advanced prostatic carcinoma, measurable or evaluable disease, no previous hormonal treatment, were treated with Buserelin at a dosage of 500 micrograms every 8 h for 7 days, followed by 400 micrograms intranasally three times a day. No concomitant antiandrogens were administered. In the 63 evaluable patients (11 patients not yet evaluable because of short treatment time, two lost to follow-up), three complete remissions, 28 partial remissions, 30 stable disease and two progressions were obtained (National Prostatic Cancer Project criteria). Median duration of response was 55+ weeks. Side effects were modest, mostly related to the endocrinological effects of Buserelin. Transient increase in serum testosterone levels was found in 37% of the evaluable patients, but transitory 'flare-up' was present in seven patients only. With a median follow-up time of 11.5 months, median survival has not been reached. In conclusion, this study confirmed the activity of Buserelin and the feasibility of its middle-term administration. PMID- 2515401 TI - [Pseudothrombocytopenia induced by ethylene-diamino-tetraacetic acid and thymoma: a chance association?]. PMID- 2515402 TI - Fatty acid and beta-amino acid syntheses in strains of Bacillus subtilis producing iturinic antibiotics. AB - Iturinic antibiotics, produced by different strains of Bacillus subtilis, contain long-chain beta-amino acids (beta-AA). The regulation of the synthesis of fatty acids (FA) and beta-AA was studied by modifying the culture medium. Addition of possible precursors, branched-chain alpha-amino acids, to the medium affected the FA and beta-AA compositions. According to this, the B. subtilis strains can be divided into two groups. The first contains the producers of mycosubtilin and bacillomycin F which synthesize a high level of iso C16 chains; the second contains the producers of bacillomycin D, bacillomycin L and iturin which synthesize a high level of n carbon chains. The incorporation of radioactive sodium acetate into FA and beta-AA showed rapid FA synthesis followed by a second synthetic step. Although the detailed mechanism has not yet been elucidated, this second step, corresponding to the beta-AA synthesis, seemed to be a key step in determining the alkyl chain of beta-AA. PMID- 2515404 TI - Turnover and fate of plasma free fatty acids in briefly-fasted lymphoma-bearing mice. AB - Body fat loss during tumor growth may be due to increased mobilization of adipose triglycerides. Earlier work from this laboratory suggested that (i) lymphoma bearing AKR mice have a circulating lipid mobilizing factor (LMF) which caused body fat loss during cancer growth; that (ii) fatty acids (FA) mobilized in these tumor-bearing (TB) mice were not oxidized to CO2 as in starved mice that lose their body fat; and that (iii) instead, the mobilized FA were sequestered by the lymphoma. We tested these hypotheses by injecting [1-14C]palmitate-albumin into lymphoma-bearing and control mice. We measured turnover of plasma FFA for 24 hr and predicted the cumulative conversion of tracer into breath 14CO2 (at 85 min) in the TB mice. Plasma FFA were mobilized more slowly in briefly fasted tumor bearing mice than in controls with the same plasma FFA pool sizes. The fractional catabolic rate (FCR) (min-1) of plasma FFA turnover in both groups decreased during the night when the mice ate: postabsorptive controls, 1.07 (+/- 5.6%); fed controls, 0.25 (+/- 13%); postabsorptive TB, 0.53 (+/- 4.6%); fed TB, 0.29 (+/- 7.3%). Virtually all of the plasma FFA irreversible disposal in TB mice was accounted for as breath 14CO2 (30 to 40% I.D.), not as tumor lipids (1.1 +/- 0.22% I.D.). Thus, FFA oxidation to CO2 is the major fate of plasma FFA turnover in TB mice, and sequestration of FFA (palmitate) by tumor cells is a quantitatively minor process. The putative circulating LMF did not cause increased FFA mobilization in these lymphoma-bearing mice in the post-absorptive state. PMID- 2515403 TI - Phorbol myristate enhanced specific incorporation of arachidonic acid into phospholipids through lysophospholipid acyltransferase in cultured smooth muscle cells. AB - The effect of stimulation of phospholipase with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate and lipopolysaccharide on 1-acyl-glycerophospholipid acyltransferase was studied in cultured rabbit aorta smooth muscle cells. The acyltransferase in smooth muscle cells without stimulation was active on a wide range of unsaturated fatty acids and was not arachidonic acid specific. Upon increase in phospholipase activity, acyltransferase activity only with arachidonic acid as substrate increased in a time-dependent fashion. Apparent acyltransferase activity was increased most upon increase in phospholipase activity when lysophosphatidylcholine was used as acceptor. These results suggest that arachidonic acid specific acyltransferase was induced in smooth muscle cells by increase in phospholipase activity. The role of this acyltransferase is postulated to be the specific incorporation of endogenously released arachidonic acid. PMID- 2515406 TI - Detection of opiates in urine: a cost-effective low risk immunoassay procedure. AB - A cost-effective immunoassay for the detection of opiates in urine has been developed using commercial reagents on a centrifugal analyser. Using this method it is possible to assay up to 2470 samples with a 100 test kit while maintaining good precision. A mean CV of 4.2% was obtained for the concentration range 123 573 micrograms/l. The assay is suitable for high-risk urines since rigorous heat treatment may be performed prior to analysis. PMID- 2515407 TI - C-reactive protein: an evaluation of two rapid assay techniques. AB - Two rapid assay techniques, fluorescence polarimetry and liquid phase immunoprecipitation, were evaluated for measurement of serum C-reactive protein. Radial immunodiffusion assay was used as a reference method. Fluorescence polarimetry was superior to liquid phase immunoprecipitation in respect of performance, ease of operation and cost. PMID- 2515408 TI - Expression and cellular localization of amyloid beta-protein precursor transcripts in normal human brain and in Alzheimer's disease. AB - Two classes of amyloid beta-protein precursors which differ by the presence of a serine protease inhibitor domain have been described. We have used synthetic oligonucleotide probes to investigate the tissue distribution and cellular localization of mRNAs encoding the two classes of amyloid beta-protein precursors. RNA blot analysis showed that transcripts encoding the protease inhibitor sequence are ubiquitously expressed in peripheral and central tissues. By contrast, transcripts lacking the protease inhibitor domain were only found in the central nervous system. By in situ hybridization on cerebral cortex and hippocampal formation both types of transcripts were present exclusively in nerve cells and they appeared to be produced by the same cells. A reduction in the transcript lacking the protease inhibitor domain was observed in frontal cortex from Alzheimer's disease patients. The present results indicate that there exists no correlation between the distribution of amyloid amyloid beta-protein precursor mRNAs and the tissue and cellular pathology of Alzheimer's disease; they also suggest that an overproduction of amyloid beta-protein precursor mRNA is unlikely to be responsible for amyloid beta-protein deposition in Alzheimer's disease. PMID- 2515405 TI - Ascorbic acid, glutathione and synthetic antioxidants prevent the oxidation of vitamin E in platelets. AB - An earlier report from this laboratory showed that tocopherol in human platelets is oxidized when the platelets are incubated in vitro in Tyrode medium with arachidonate (or other oxidants). Arachidonate is a more potent oxidizing agent in 50 mM potassium phosphate buffer at pH 7.4 with 0.1 mM ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) than in Tyrode medium. Forty to fifty percent of total platelet tocopherol was oxidized upon incubation with 40-50 microM arachidonate in the phosphate-buffered medium. The tocopherol oxidation took place within 15 min after the addition of arachidonate. Preincubation of platelets with ascorbate blocked the oxidation of tocopherol. This is one of the first direct in vitro demonstrations of the vitamin E-sparing action of vitamin C in media containing biological cellular material. Other compounds which blocked the oxidation of platelet tocopherol were ascorbyl palmitate, propyl gallate, butylated hydroxytoluene, hydroquinone and glutathione. If ascorbate or glutathione was added after the tocopherol was oxidized to the quinone there was no reversal of the oxidation. PMID- 2515409 TI - Intrasynaptosomal distribution of the ras, rho and smg-25A GTP-binding proteins in bovine brain. AB - We have purified to near homogeneity and characterized three small molecular weight (Mr) GTP-binding proteins, the c-Ki-ras protein (c-Ki-ras p21), the rho protein (rho p20) and a novel smg-25A protein (smg p25A), from bovine brain crude membranes. In the present studies, the intrasynaptosomal distribution of these 3 small Mr G protein has been investigated using bovine brain. ras p21 and rho p20 are found in the synaptosomal membrane fraction but not in the synaptosomal soluble fraction. In contrast, smg p25A is found in both the synaptosomal membrane and soluble fractions. These results indicate that the intrasynaptosomal distribution of these small Mr G proteins is different and suggest that they are involved in different neuronal functions. PMID- 2515410 TI - Trigeminal nerve section induces Fos-like immunoreactivity (FLI) in brainstem and decreases FLI in sensory cortex. AB - Transecting the infraorbital nerve to the rat whiskers induced Fos-like immunoreactivity (FLI) in lamina I and II neuronal nuclei of the spinal trigeminal nucleus pars caudalis (Sp5c). The Fos-like immunostaining persisted for several weeks. The prolonged expression of FLI in Sp5c could be related to persistent activity in the sectioned nerve, or to trophic effects of injured ganglion neurons on brainstem cells. We postulate that Fos and related proteins may be involved in mediating alterations in gene expression associated with relatively long-term CNS adaptations to peripheral nerve injuries. Surprisingly, FLI decreased in contralateral sensory cortex, mainly in layers 2, 3 and 6, up to several days after the lesion. These decreases of cortical FLI may be due to decreased sensory neuronal activity, and/or to reducing the trophic influence of thalamic inputs on cortical neurons. PMID- 2515411 TI - Growth at reduced temperatures increases the virulence of Listeria monocytogenes for intravenously but not intragastrically inoculated mice. AB - Growth of three clinical isolates (Scott A, Murray B, and F5380) and one laboratory strain (EGD) of L. monocytogenes at 4 degrees C significantly increased their virulence for intravenously injected mice. Using the EGD strain for subsequent experiments, we determined that growth at either 4 degrees or 22 degrees C enhanced the growth of listeria in the spleen and liver. Similar numbers of listeriae were recovered from the spleens and livers of mice during the first 48 h after i.v. injection of strain EGD grown at 37 degrees C or 4 degrees C. At later timepoints (3-6 days), significantly more listeriae were recovered from the spleens and livers of mice injected i.v. with strain EGD grown at 4 degrees C. In contrast, L. monocytogenes EGD grown at 37 degrees C and 4 degrees C demonstrated similar abilities to survive in the gastrointestinal tract, to translocate to the mesenteric lymph nodes, and to disseminate to the spleen and liver in intragastrically inoculated mice. Listeria monocytogenes EGD grown at 4 degrees C released less hemolysin into the culture medium than did this strain when grown at 22 degrees C and 37 degrees C. Transfer to fresh broth and incubation at 37 degrees C for 2 h increased the release, to similar levels, of hemolysin from L. monocytogenes EGD grown at 4 degrees, 22 degrees, and 37 degrees C. Temperature-induced differences in virulence, therefore, may not reflect the amount of hemolysin released. PMID- 2515413 TI - Class II histocompatibility genes and insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. AB - Models for IDDM susceptibility based on single amino acid substitutions in class II histocompatibility genes are attractive in simplicity but are largely inconsistent with genetic epidemiological data. A simple correlation between IDDM and residue 57 of the DQ beta chain does not hold in Oriental IDDM patients, cannot account for DR3,DR4 synergism and does not explain different modes of inheritance of DR3- and DR4-related IDDM determinants. Residue 70/DR beta correlates equally well, if not better, with IDDM than does residue 57/DQ beta, but IDDM genotype distributions are compatible with multi-locus involvement of DR beta and DQ beta genes. PMID- 2515412 TI - Adaptive evolution of G-protein coupled receptor genes. AB - The phylogeny and patterns of nucleotide substitutions in the visual pigment genes, adrenergic receptor genes, muscarinic receptor genes, and in the human mas oncogene were studied by comparing their DNA sequences. The evolutionary tree obtained shows that the visual pigment genes and mas oncogene form one cluster and that the receptor genes form another. In the evolution of rhodopsin genes, synonymous substitutions outnumber nonsynonymous substitutions. This is consistent with the neutral theory of molecular evolution. However, the early evolutionary stages of alpha- and beta-adrenergic and muscarinic receptors are notable for significantly more nonsynonymous substitutions than synonymous substitutions, suggesting the acquisition of novel functional adaptations. Variable rates of nonsynonymous changes in different domains of these proteins reveal DNA segments that might have been important in their functional adaptations. PMID- 2515414 TI - Transcriptional regulation of cell division genes in Escherichia coli. AB - The complete Escherichia coli ftsQ coding sequence, together with part of the ftsA coding sequence, has been cloned upstream of the lacZ open reading frame in a lambda-vector (lambda JFL100). Cells which are lysogenic for lambda JFL100 transcribe the cloned lacZ from promoter(s) within the ftsQ and ftsA sequences. The level of beta-galactosidase produced is dependent on growth rate (and/or cell size) and is derepressed in an ftsA-deficient mutant. Transcription during the cell cycle is restricted to the time of cell division. PMID- 2515415 TI - Subcellular localization of proteins encoded by the phenotypically cryptic plasmid of Neisseria gonorrhoeae: biological evidence for outer membrane association of the cppB gene product. AB - Almost all clinical isolates of Neisseria gonorrhoeae harbour a plasmid of 4.2 kb with no known function. A genetic model based on the DNA sequence of the plasmid, with ten open reading frames, has been proposed by Korch et al., (1985). To address the question of the function of the encoded proteins, some of which are expressed when the plasmid is harboured by Escherichia coli, the subcellular locations of such proteins were investigated in minicells of Escherichia coli DS410. The protein CppB, earlier proposed to be a membrane-spanning polypeptide, was found associated with the outer membrane. Up to five other cryptic plasmid proteins were found to be localized in the periplasm. PMID- 2515416 TI - Mapping the surface regions of Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAK pilin: the importance of the C-terminal region for adherence to human buccal epithelial cells. AB - The adherence of non-mucoid Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains is believed to be mediated by the pilus, which consists of a single protein subunit of 15,000 Daltons called pilin. Ten antipeptide antisera were raised to map the surface regions of pilin from P. aeruginosa strain K (PAK). Only one of the antipeptide antisera to the eight predicted surface regions failed to react with PAK pili in direct ELISA. Five out of eight synthetic peptides representing the eight predicted surface regions reacted with anti-PAK pilus antiserum, indicating their surface exposure. Combining the antipeptide and antipilus antisera results, all eight predicted surface regions were demonstrated to be surface-exposed. The PAK 128-144-OH peptide produced the best binding antiserum to PAK pili. Only antipeptide Fab fragments directed against the disulphide bridged C-terminal region of PAK pilin blocked the adherence of pili to human buccal epithelial cells, which suggests that this region contains the receptor-binding domain of the PAK pilus. PMID- 2515417 TI - Characterization of the osmoregulated Escherichia coli proU promoter and identification of ProV as a membrane-associated protein. AB - The Escherichia coli proU operon encodes a high-affinity, binding-protein dependent transport system for the osmoprotectant glycine betaine. Expression of proU is osmoregulated, and transcription of this operon is greatly increased in cells grown at high osmolarity. Characterization of the proU operon and its promoter provided results similar to those published elsewhere (Gowrishankar, 1989; Stirling et al., 1989). The previously identified proU601 mutation, which leads to increased proU expression both at low- and high osmolarity, is a G to A transition in the Pribnow box of the proU promoter, which increases the homology of the -10 region to the consensus sequence of E. coli promoters. Using an antiserum raised against a ProV-beta-galactosidase hybrid protein, we have identified ProV as a protein associated with the cytoplasmic membrane. This cellular location is consistent with its proposed role as the energy-coupling component of the ProU transport system. PMID- 2515418 TI - Cloning, expression and sequence analysis of the gene encoding the 120 kD surface exposed protein of Rickettsia rickettsii. AB - Rickettsia rickettsii (R strain) genomic DNA was partially digested and cloned into the lambda expression vector gt11 generating a genomic clone bank. Transformant plaques were screened with antisera generated against the 120 kiloDalton protein of R. rickettsii to detect those phage expressing the recombinant protein. The gene encoding the 120 kD protein was localized to a 4.3 kilobase SphI-BamHI fragment from the recombinant phage and subcloned into pUC18 and pUC19. Full-length expression of the recombinant protein was achieved with both orientations. The gene and flanking regions were sequenced. The p120 gene consists of 3900 base pairs coding for 1300 amino acids. A distinguishable promoter region was not identified, although there are several 5' sequences that resemble classical prokaryotic promoters. Downstream of the termination codon for this gene lies a 726 base pair open reading frame on the opposite strand with the potential to encode a protein of approximately 27 kD. The identity of this putative gene product is unknown. The two open reading frames are separated by a 106 base pair intergenic region that consists of a stretch of dyad symmetry resembling rho-independent transcriptional terminators. PMID- 2515419 TI - A guide for probing native small nuclear RNA and ribonucleoprotein structures. PMID- 2515420 TI - Ultraviolet-induced cross-linking of RNA to proteins in vivo. PMID- 2515421 TI - Ovarian-pituitary hormone interactions during the perimenopause. AB - To describe the hormone changes that occur at the onset of the perimenopause, daily urine and random blood samples were collected from 5 peri-menopausal women for 3 or 4 consecutive cycles. Estrone conjugate and pregnanediol-3-glucoronide concentrations were determined for urine samples. Circulating luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, progesterone, estradiol and estrone concentrations were determined in serum samples. Two of the 5 women experienced irregular menstrual intervals during the study period. One of these subjects experienced a prolonged intermenstrual interval. Three other women exhibited apparently regular ovulatory menstrual cycles. The prolonged intermenstrual interval of one women exhibiting irregular menstrual intervals was associated with low urinary estrogen levels in the early follicular phase of the affected cycle, followed by increased gonadotrophin levels and increased estrogen levels that rose to exceed normal cycle concentrations by 2- or 3-fold. Increased estrogen levels were followed by declining gonadotrophin levels, minimal progesterone production, and, ultimately, vaginal bleeding. These data suggest that there are some forms of menstrual variability at the time of the perimenopause associated with lowered early follicular phase estrogen levels. Reduced negative feedback and subsequently increased gonadotrophin levels may have stimulated estrogen production which may have suppressed gonadotrophin secretion and lowered estrogen excretion, resulting in the observed oscillations between episodes of hypo- and hyperestrogenism. PMID- 2515423 TI - Enhancement of phagocytosis and bactericidal activity of neutrophils in miniature pigs by dihydroheptaprenol, a synthetic polyprenol derivative. AB - Dihydroheptaprenol (DHP), a synthetic polyprenol derivative, markedly stimulated the generation of peripheral blood neutrophils after intramuscular injection in miniature pigs. The generated neutrophils exhibited enhanced phagocytic activity against latex particles and also enhanced killing activity against Escherichia coli. The effective dose in miniature pigs (1.4 mg/kg) was markedly less than that required in mice (100 mg/kg). These results indicate that DHP induces resistance to some bacterial infections in pigs, suggesting the applicability of DHP for humans. PMID- 2515422 TI - A potential polyvalent Neisseria meningitidis vaccine based on a mixture of CaCl2 cell extracts from groups A, B and Y. AB - Outer membrane proteins (OMP) from Neisseria meningitidis cells of groups A, B, C and Y were extracted with CaCl2. Sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of each extract showed a multibanded pattern characterized by the presence of three to four major proteins. Immunization of mice with individual extracts induced homologous bactericidal reactions. In addition, the extracts from groups B and C induced heterologous bactericidal reactions (B-C, C-B). The sera of mice immunized with a mixture of group A, B, and Y extracts showed a high bactericidal titre against the three N. meningitidis groups forming the mixture. Moreover, this bactericidal activity had a large spectrum against different strains from groups A, B, Y and also C. After immunization of mice with the individual extracts, each of the sera was shown by immunoblotting to contain antibodies reacting with some of the corresponding proteins. Mice immunized with the mixture showed a significant reduction of bacteraemia following challenge with either of N. meningitidis groups A, B or C. These results suggest that a mixture of OMP from different N. meningitidis groups may have the potential for a meningococcal polyvalent vaccine. PMID- 2515424 TI - Characterization of mammalian type IX collagen fragments from limited pepsin digests of a transplantable swarm rat chondrosarcoma. AB - Collagenous fragments from type IX molecules have been solubilized by limited pepsin proteolysis of a transplantable rat chondrosarcoma and isolated by selective salt precipitation. Chromatography of the solubilized precipitate on CM cellulose under nondenaturing conditions yielded three fractions. When examined by polarimetry, the material in all three fractions revealed native collagen helical structure with melting points which ranged from 31-37 degrees C. When the fractions were denatured and rechromatographed on a column of agarose beads, the most acidic fraction eluted as 13-kDa polypeptides with and without prior reduction and alkylation. In contrast, the second and third fractions eluted as 100-kDa and 30-kDa polypeptides prior to reduction, but on reduction and alkylation produced reducible products of 34 kDa and 10 kDa, respectively. The general compositional features of the three fractions closely resemble comparable collagenous fragments of type IX collagen from other species. The denaturation products of the 13-kDa nonreducible, the 30-kDa reducible, and the 100-kDa reducible fractions were sequentially purified by CM-cellulose and reversed-phase chromatography to resolve the chain constituents. The isolated 10-kDa, 13-kDa, and 34-kDa chains were cleaved with CNBr, and the cleavage products identified by gel-permeation chromatography. Two 13-kDa polypeptides, 13K2 and 13K3, which did not contain any methionyl residues and were not cleaved with CNBr, were digested with trypsin, and the peptide digests were resolved by reversed-phase chromatography. Comparisons of the CNBr and tryptic cleavage products demonstrate that the three major collagenous fragments are composed of three unique polypeptides. A partial amino acid sequence of an 8-kDa CNBr peptide derived from a purified 10-kDa peptide (10K1) matches identically the amino acid sequence derived from a cDNA sequence in the rat alpha 1(IX) chain (Kimura et al., 1989). These studies, then, present convenient procedures useful in the isolation of mammalian type IX collagen fragments and describe features of the rat molecule, indicating that it is similar to the avian counterpart with respect to chain composition and general molecular structure. PMID- 2515425 TI - Incidence of inapparent active mycobacterial infections in France detected by an IgG serological test based on antigen 60. AB - A serological test detecting circulating mycobacterial antibodies of the IgG type applied to various populations. The test detected no positive cases among old age people in a retirement home. Among sexually active women, 3% were positive. This percentage of antigen 60-positive cases was also found among asymptomatic HIV seropositives. The percentage augmented to 5.7% when hospital attendants were analyzed and augmented further to 14% when people known to have had contact with a man suffering from pulmonary tuberculosis were analyzed. PMID- 2515426 TI - [Induced hypoglycemia. A unusual case of child battering]. AB - We describe a case of Munchausen's syndrome by proxy in a 12 years old child. The administration of glibenclamide by the mother led to severe hypoglycemias in the child, who underwent various instrumental researches and a subtotal pancreatectomy before the final diagnosis could be reached. The diagnosis also was possible with the substantial help of an accurate psychological survey. The case solution, with disappearance of hypoglycemias, was made possible by the removal of the maternal presence settled by the juvenile court. PMID- 2515427 TI - In vivo selected promoter and ribosome binding site up-mutations: demonstration that the Escherichia coli bla promoter and a Shine-Dalgarno region with low complementarity to the 16 S ribosomal RNA function in Bacillus subtilis. AB - We have constructed a plasmid, pQS1, in which a mouse dihydrofolate reductase (5,6,7,8-tetrahydrofolate:NADP:oxidoreductase; EC 1.5.1.3; DHFR) cDNA is inserted in the unique PstI site of a gram-positive/gram-negative shuttle vector derived from pBR322. The cDNA is expressed under the control of the bla promoter, which, like most gram-negative bacterial genes, is considered not to be expressed in Bacillus subtilis, and its coding sequence is translated from a polycistronic message. We have selected in vivo and studied, in Escherichia coli and B. subtilis, expression mutants with promoter and ribosome binding site sequence mutations. One promoter mutation changes the third nucleotide of the -35 region from a C to a G. As expected, this substitution results in increased transcriptional activity in E. coli. In B. subtilis, this mutation induces the accumulation not only of a low but significant amount of dhfr mRNA but also of DHFR, demonstrating that binding strengths with a free energy as low as -9.4 kcal/mol are sufficient to promote ribosome binding in B. subtilis. The association of the promoter mutation (C-G) with a mutation which creates a strong B. subtilis ribosome binding site (-21 kcal/mol) results in the accumulation of a large amount of dhfr mRNA. This demonstrates the importance of having an efficient ribosome binding site in the evaluation of promoter function: for example, with this strong ribosome binding site we can show that the wild-type bla promoter is recognized by the B. subtilis transcription machinery. PMID- 2515429 TI - [Construction and study of strains of the Siberian ulcer pathogen possessing various sets of plasmids]. PMID- 2515428 TI - Expression of the dnaN and dnaQ genes of Escherichia coli is inducible by mitomycin C. AB - The dnaN and dnaQ genes encode the beta subunit and the epsilon subunit of the DNA polymerase III holoenzyme. Using translational fusions to lacZ we found that DNA damage caused by mitomycin C induces expression of the dnaA and dnaQ genes. This induction was not observed in lexA and recA mutants which block the induction of the SOS response, suggesting a relationship between the mechanism(s) of genetic control of DNA polymerase III holoenzyme and the SOS regulatory network. Nevertheless, there is evidence that the mitomycin C induction of dnaN and dnaQ is not a simple lexA-regulated process, because nalidixic acid (an excellent SOS inducer) does not increase dnaN and dnaQ gene expression, and the time course of induction is abnormally slow. PMID- 2515430 TI - [Expression of the phospholipase C gene of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas]. AB - The plc gene for phospholipase of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, able to be transcribed only from its own promoter, has been introduced into Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Pseudomonas putida cells in the recombinant plasmid pPMS21 of a wide host range. The expression of plc gene in all recipient cells has been shown to be phosphate regulated. The fact emphasizes the identity of pho regulation systems in Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas cells. The level of phospholipase activity is similar in Pseudomonas putida and Pseudomonas aeruginosa under the conditions of the gene derepression, while in Escherichia coli cells the level does not exceed 10% of activity registered in Pseudomonas cells. PMID- 2515431 TI - [Cloning the alpha-amylase gene of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens in cyanobacteria cells]. AB - The recombinant plasmids of pIAH4amy series were constructed containing the alpha amylase gene of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens A50 with its own promoter and leading sequence within an integrative vector plasmid pIAH4 (CmR) for cyanobacterium Anacystis nidulans R2. At Anacystis nidulans transformation the hybrid plasmids integrate into cyanobacterium chromosome with high efficiency and all CmR transformants produce alpha-amylase. Expression of bacillar alpha-amylase gene in cyanobacterium cells is independent of the cloned gene orientation in the vector plasmid. Secretion of alpha-amylase into the cyanobacterial periplasm has been demonstrated. PMID- 2515432 TI - Fourth European meeting on ADP-ribosylation of proteins, Pavia (Italy), 20-23 April 1989. PMID- 2515434 TI - A transcriptional analysis of the Trypanosoma brucei hsp83 gene cluster. AB - Ten to twelve copies of the 83-kDa heat-shock protein gene (hsp83) from Trypanosoma brucei are arranged in a head-to-tail tandem array of 2.8-kb repeat units, which are transcribed to give 2.6-kb mature mRNAs. We have cloned and sequenced one of the repeat units. The gene encodes a putative protein of 81 kDa which is highly homologous to Hsp83 of Drosophila melanogaster (75%), Hsp90 of Saccharomyces cerevisiae (72%) and the C62.5 protein of Escherichia coli (61%). The 5' end of the mature mRNA was mapped by primer extension sequence analysis and shown to contain the spliced leader. The mapping of the 3' poly(A) addition sites by S1 analysis indicated that there is 218 nt of intergenic sequence linking the boundaries encoding the mature mRNA. Within this sequence are a number of elements conserved with the trypanosome hsp70 intergenic region, including a 14-nt sequence that also has homology to the Drosophila heat-shock consensus element. PMID- 2515433 TI - Identification, expression and in situ hybridization of an eggshell protein gene from Fasciola hepatica. AB - The molecular basis of egg formation in the parasitic liver fluke, Fasciola hepatica, was investigated by isolating and characterizing an abundant cDNA from a female genital complex cDNA library. It was expressed in Escherichia coli as a beta-galactosidase fusion protein, which was purified and used to produce polyclonal antibodies. Using immunoblots, the antiserum recognized two soluble constituents of isolated egg shells, both significantly larger than predicted from cDNA sequencing. Using in situ hybridization, the message was detected in cells in the adult vitelline follicles. Eggshell protein mRNA expressed in E. coli will provide a source of precursor protein for further studies of parasite eggshell formation. PMID- 2515435 TI - Sequence and expression of a gene from Theileria annulata coding for a 70 kilodalton heat-shock protein. AB - A library consisting of randomly sheared Theileria annulata genomic DNA fragments in the vector lambda gt11 was screened with a Drosophila DNA segment containing the coding region of the 70-kDa heat-shock protein (hsp) gene. A positive recombinant was isolated and subjected to nucleotide sequence analysis. The DNA segment contains an open reading frame coding for a 71-kDa protein strongly homologous to hsp 70 from other organisms. Using this DNA as a probe, a homologous 2.5-kb RNA species was detected in sporozoites, piroplasms and a macroschizont-infected cell line, showing that this gene is constitutively expressed. The amount of this RNA increased following heat shock in the macroschizont-infected cell line. The T. annulata genome contains other sequences that hybridize weakly with this heat-shock gene. PMID- 2515436 TI - Influence of formic acid on fungal flora of barley and on aflatoxin production in Aspergillus flavus link. AB - In recent years Aspergillus flavus and aflatoxin production have been noted on several occasions in grain preserved with formic acid. Samples of mouldy barley treated with formic acid and stored in an open bin were investigated for the presence of fungi. In the lower part of the bin there was a clear dominance of Fusarium sporotrichioides, and deoxynivalenol and neosolaniol were detected. A. flavus and A. fumigatus were also present. Paecilomyces variotii occurred, almost as a pure culture, in the upper part of the bin, but no patulin was found. Cultivation of four fungal isolates from these genera on laboratory substrates containing formic acid showed P. variotii to be the most tolerant to formic acid, withstanding 150 mM, but still without patulin production. F. sporotrichioides and A. fumigatus tolerated only 6 mM formic acid. The growth of A. flavus was reduced and atypical at 60 mM formic acid. Pretreatment of A. flavus spores with formic acid increased aflatoxin production about 800 times. PMID- 2515437 TI - Metabolic precursor regulation of aflatoxin formation in toxigenic and non toxigenic strains of Aspergillus flavus. AB - Non-aflatoxin-producing isolates of Aspergillus flavus from nature and isolates of A. flavus that had lost their toxigenic trait following laboratory transfer were compared biochemically. After the addition of aflatoxin B1 precursors sterigmatocystin or O-methylsterigmatocystin to whole cell cultures, the non toxin producing isolates from nature remained non-toxigenic while toxigenicity was restored in the non-toxigenic laboratory strains. Results imply a lack of enzymes needed for biochemical conversions of precursors to aflatoxin B1 in natural non-producers and suppression of these enzymes in the non-producing laboratory strains. PMID- 2515438 TI - Transformation of Aspergillus flavus to study aflatoxin biosynthesis. AB - Aflatoxin contamination of agricultural commodities continues to be a serious problem in the United States. Breeding for resistant genotypes has been unsuccessful and detoxification of food sources is not economically feasible. New strategies for control may become apparent once more is known about the biosynthesis and regulation of aflatoxin. Although the biosynthetic pathway of aflatoxin has been extensively studied, little is known about the regulation of the individual steps in the pathway. We have developed a genetic transformation system for Aspergillus flavus that provides a new and expedient approach to studying the biosynthesis of aflatoxin and its regulation. Through the use of this genetic transformation system, genes for aflatoxin biosynthesis can be identified and isolated by the complementation of aflatoxin negative mutants. In this paper we discuss molecular strategies for studying the regulation and biosynthesis of aflatoxin. PMID- 2515439 TI - Enzymes in aflatoxin B1 biosynthesis: strategies for identifying pertinent genes. AB - Recent work on the aflatoxin biosynthetic pathway is reviewed, with special emphasis on the enzymes of the late stages of the pathway involving conversion of sterigmatocystin (ST) to aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) through an O-methylsterigmatocystin intermediate. Two enzyme activities were discovered in subcellular fractions of cell-free extracts of a mutant strain of Aspergillus parasiticus (SRRC 163): 1) A post-microsomal methyltransferase (MT) catalyzed conversion of ST to OMST, and 2) a microsomal-associated activity (oxido-reductase) converted OMST to AFB1. The 168 KDa, anionic MT was purified to homogeneity and characterized (two subunits, 110 KDa and 58 KDa). Preliminary evidence indicated the presence of a cationic isozyme of the MT in mycelial extracts. The oxido-reductase has been partially purified and characterized. Polyclonal antibodies were prepared to the anionic MT and the enzyme's amino acid composition determined. A cDNA library has been constructed from mRNA isolated from Aspergillus parasiticus mycelia during the onset of AFB1 biosynthesis for the purpose of identifying the genes responsible for aflatoxin biosynthesis. PMID- 2515440 TI - Involvement of a Ca2+-calmodulin interaction in the yeast-mycelial (Y-M) transition of Candida albicans. AB - A yeast-mycelium (Y-M) transition of Candida albicans (3153A) was induced by 1.5 mM CaCl2.2H2O in defined liquid medium, pH 7, at 25 degrees C. Germ tube formation was detected after approximately 8 h and peaks of maximum germination occurred at approximately 20 h in all experimental treatments. Non-toxic concentrations of the calmodulin inhibitor R24571 almost completely suppressed germ tube formation whereas trifluoperazine (TFP) and the Ca2+ ionophore A23187 were only about half as effective. Further Ca2+ addition failed to reverse the inhibitory effect of R24571 and induced only about 10% of the cells inhibited by TFP or A23187 to germinate. PMID- 2515441 TI - Serological study of yeast killer toxins by monoclonal antibodies. AB - Yeast killer toxins coded by determined and undetermined killer plasmids or presumptive nuclear gene(s) in various genera (Saccharomyces, Kluyveromyces, Pichia and Candida) have been serologically investigated by a monoclonal antibody (KT4), produced against the yeast killer toxin of Pichia (Hansenula) anomala UCSC 25F. Double immunodiffusion with the killer toxins as antigens and indirect immunofluorescence on whole cells of the corresponding killer yeast have been used. In both the serological procedures, monoclonal antibody KT4 proved to be reacting only with the killer toxins and the whole cells of yeasts belonging to the genus Pichia. PMID- 2515442 TI - [Structural bases of the teratogenic effects of the antiepileptic valproic acid. 2-n-propyl-4-pentenic acid, the first structural analogue with significantly higher teratogenic action than VPA]. PMID- 2515444 TI - District nursing: sceptical response. PMID- 2515443 TI - Investigation by NMR spectroscopy of the interaction between synthetic soluble ( )-dopa melanin and drugs. AB - In order to understand the molecular interactions of drugs with melanin, synthetic soluble (-)-dopa-melanin was prepared in deuterium buffer. The spectra of various drug moieties with the pigment at 30 degrees C were studied employing the line width measurements obtained with a pulse NMR (AF270) instrument. As compared to drug effects in fresh melanins (48 h), the aged melanins (greater than or equal to 168 h) gave consistent spectral measurements, even in dilute solutions of pigment. NMR signals of aromatic and N-methyl protons of drugs were relatively easy to quantify and, in the presence of melanin, line broadening of various drug moieties occurred. The line widths of the N-methyl groups of acetylcholine (3.02 ppm), the N-methyl group of atropine (2.52 ppm), N-isopropyl of isoprenaline bitartrate (1.14 ppm) and N-ter-butyl of timolol maleate (1.22 ppm) in the presence of the pigment were increased. Line widths associated with acetate, bitartrate, maleate or tropic acid, however, were not altered by the melanin. This indicates the specificity of the interaction between drug moieties and the site(s) of melanin. Based on the line width measurements of N-methyl protons of ephedrine, two dissociation constants were obtained (Kd1 2.08 mM and Kd2 greater than 20 mM). The constants for atropine melanin complex were Kd1 0.79 mM and Kd2 greater than 6 mM. Furthermore, based on N-methyl resonances, it appears that atropine and ephedrine compete for at least one common interacting site of the melanin polymer. PMID- 2515445 TI - A chorus of apprehension. PMID- 2515446 TI - A bright future. Interview by Charlotte Alderman. PMID- 2515447 TI - Guidelines for preventing pressure sores. PMID- 2515448 TI - Supporting those with learning difficulties. PMID- 2515449 TI - The A&E department and the nurse practitioner. PMID- 2515450 TI - Health in Nicaragua: witnessing a revolution in health. PMID- 2515452 TI - Money talks. PMID- 2515451 TI - Ethnicity and positivity. Interview by Jackie O'Byrne. PMID- 2515454 TI - Labour relations case notes: a grading example. PMID- 2515453 TI - Nursing--the regulatory system. PMID- 2515456 TI - Occupational health. Working together: health for all. PMID- 2515455 TI - Occupational health nursing. PMID- 2515457 TI - Occupational health. Local health nurses and policy. PMID- 2515458 TI - Occupational health. Development and changing roles. PMID- 2515459 TI - Differential effect of collaterally sensitive antimetabolites on P388 murine leukemia sensitive and resistant to adriamycin in vitro. AB - Experiments were carried out in vitro using DNA polymerase and ribonucleotide reductase inhibitors to investigate their cytotoxicity to P388 murine leukemia sensitive (P388/S) and resistant (P388/R) to adriamycin (ADR). DNA polymerase inhibitors such as cytosine arabinoside (ara-C) and aphidicolin elicited comparative inhibition of DNA biosynthesis in both parental and ADR-resistant tumor cells. However, ribonucleotide reductase inhibitors such as hydroxyurea (HU) and caracemide were collaterally more sensitive to P388/R cells. Inosine diglycolaldehyde (Inox) was ineffective in showing such a response. Pretreatment with HU significantly increased intracellular ADR levels and inhibition of RNA biosynthesis by ADR in P388/R cells while, in P388/S cells, sequential or concurrent treatment with HU did not enhance intracellular ADR levels. Mechanisms underlying such an effect, implications due to reduced intracellular ATP levels in drug-resistant cells, and the possible utility of using ribonucleotide reductase as a target in drug-resistant tumors for the therapeutic benefit are discussed. PMID- 2515460 TI - [Post-operative blood pressure management by nitroglycerin in the field of neurosurgery]. AB - It is well known that vasodilating antihypertensive drugs induce intracranial hypertension. A considerable number of papers have reported nitroglycerin-induced ICP elevation during anesthetized operations. However, except for Gagnon's report, most papers dealt with normal patients. Our study, using an extradural pressure transducer clinically, deals with the nitroglycerin drip infusion and its effect on high ICP state. Mean ICP value before infusion was 42 mmHg+ 14.8 (N = 10). Three cases out of ten showed ICP elevation corresponding with blood pressure depression. Six cases out of ten revealed ICP depression corresponding with blood pressure depression. One case did not show any difference in ICP. There was a statistically significant difference between the ICP elevated group and the depressed group. These results suggest that very high ICP state, like vasomotor paralysis, does not have a potential to open the vascular bed in the cranium and blood pressure depression induced by nitroglycerin infusion causes ICP depression. We would like to conclude that nitroglycerin can be used for postoperative blood pressure control even in the neurosurgical field. PMID- 2515461 TI - Estrogen plus progesterone increases progestin receptor immunoreactivity in the brain of ovariectomized guinea pigs. AB - The goal of these experiments was to determine the number and distribution of brain cells that contain progestin receptors (PR) and to determine the effect of estrogen and estrogen plus progesterone on PR content of those cells. Ovariectomized adult female guinea pigs were treated with oil (control), or estrogen followed by oil, or estrogen followed by progesterone. As expected, only those animals treated with estrogen plus progesterone became sexually receptive. The cellular content of PR was determined using a monoclonal antibody to the receptor, and standard immunocytochemical techniques. Analysis of the PR immunoreactive (PR-IR) cells consisted of: (1) mapping the anatomical distribution of PR-IR cells; (2) analyzing the effect of steroid hormones on PR IR cell number, and (3) determining the effect of steroid hormones on PR immunoreactivity per cell. PR immunoreactivity was located exclusively in the nuclei of cells in the preoptic area and hypothalamus. The most dense collections of PR-IR cells were found in the preoptic area, ventrolateral nucleus of the hypothalamus, and infundibular nucleus. Estrogen caused a dramatic increase in the number of PR-IR cells in these cell groups. Sequential treatment with estrogen plus progesterone further increased PR-IR cell number, in the preoptic area by 65%, in the ventrolateral nucleus by 38%, and in the infundibular nucleus by 49%. A cell-by-cell rating of the PR immunoreactivity was carried out in these three cell groups. We found that the staining intensity across the populations of PR-IR cells was increased by estrogen and further increased by sequential estrogen plus progesterone. Alterations in cellular PR content may contribute importantly to the ability of progesterone target cell groups to perform their specialized roles in steroid-regulated activity. PMID- 2515462 TI - Circadian rhythm of oxytocin in the cerebrospinal fluid of rhesus and cynomolgus monkeys: effects of castration and adrenalectomy and presence of a caudal-rostral gradient. AB - Oxytocin and vasopressin (AVP) were previously reported to have a diurnal rhythm in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) collected from the cervical cistern of chaired, intact male rhesus monkeys. In the present study, we continuously sampled CSF from temporary indwelling catheters placed in the spinal subarachnoid space of unanesthetized monkeys maintained on tether and swivel systems. CSF was collected from intact and castrate female rhesus monkeys and intact female and castrate, adrenalectomized male cynomolgus monkeys to determine if oxytocin and AVP rhythms are expressed in spinal subarachnoid CSF, if the magnitude of the CSF rhythm displays a rostral-caudal gradient, and if the rhythm is present in adrenalectomized and castrate monkeys, or is specific to the sex or species of macaque. Monkeys, maintained on a 12-hour light/dark cycle with lights on from 06.00 to 18.00 h, had 19-gauge epidural catheters introduced at the L4-L5 intervertebral space and advanced cephalad in the subarachnoid space. The proximal end of the catheter was connected to a peristaltic pump for continuous removal of CSF (0.5 ml/h) and hourly CSF samples were radioimmunoassayed for oxytocin and AVP. For rostral-caudal studies, the distal tip of the catheter was repositioned every few days to collect CSF from 3 levels of the spinal subarachnoid space: C5-6, T5-6, T12-L1. Each animal had a diurnal CSF oxytocin rhythm with peak and trough oxytocin levels during early light and dark periods, respectively. The magnitude of the oxytocin rhythm differed among animals, but was consistent in an animal from day to day.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515463 TI - Neuropeptide cells and fibers in the hypothalamus and pituitary of the fetal sheep: comparison of oxytocin and arginine vasopressin. AB - Both oxytocin (OXY) and arginine vasopressin (AVP) enhance the effects of corticotropin-releasing factor on ACTH release by the pituitary. One of these, AVP, plays a role in the control of fluid balance and responses to hypoxemic stress in the fetal sheep. To determine the possibility that OXY also participates in fetal neuroendocrine events, OXY-containing neuronal structures must first be demonstrated within the fetal endocrine hypothalamus. OXY immunoreactive elements were examined in fetal sheep hypothalami late in gestation and compared to AVP-containing structures using immunocytochemical procedures. Six fetal sheep ranging from 126 to 144 days gestational age were delivered via cesarian section from timed pregnant Rambouillet-Columbia ewes and killed by an overdose of anesthesia. The fetal head was perfused via bilateral carotid catheters and processed for immunocytochemical localization of OXY or AVP using the avidin-biotin complex procedure. At all fetal ages examined, OXY- and AVP-containing neurons were found within the paraventricular nuclei (PVN), supraoptic nuclei (SON) and accessory magnocellular hypothalamic nuclei. OXY containing neurons were found principally in the SON and PVN. They were generally less numerous and less intensely stained than the AVP neurons. In the SON, they concentrated along the dorsal borders of the nucleus above the AVP neurons. In PVN, clusters of OXY cells were located along the dorsal and lateral borders of the nucleus surrounding the AVP neurons; in the periventricular division, they were intermingled with the AVP neurons. Small numbers of OXY axons were located in the external zone of the median eminence; whereas most OXY axons extended into the hypothalamo-neurohypophyseal tract and posterior lobe of the pituitary. A few of the OXY axons in the pituitary stalk were diverted to the pars intermedia. Likewise, some of the OXY fibers from the external zone of the median eminence entered the pars tuberalis but were rarely found in the distal lobe of the pituitary. In contrast, AVP axons richly innervated the external zone of the median eminence, and neural lobe. Like OXY, AVP axons from the median eminence and the pituitary stalk sent projections to the adenohypophysis. AVP fibers in the pars distalis frequently contacted corticotropes and were more numerous than OXY fibers in this region. These data provide anatomical evidence that OXY and AVP may directly regulate the fetal adenohypophysis. Of these two neuropeptides, AVP predominates anatomically. PMID- 2515464 TI - Ontogeny of prolactin releasing and inhibiting activities in the posterior pituitary of male rats. AB - Plasma PRL levels in male rats are highest during the peripubertal period. We previously reported that the posterior pituitary (PP) contains a potent PRL releasing factor (PRF), a trypsin-insensitive small peptide which is distinct from known PRL secretagogues. The objectives were to determine the ontogeny of PRF activity in the PP as well as age-related alterations in anterior pituitary responsiveness to PRF. We also explored if the PP contains a nondopaminergic PRL inhibiting factor (PIF). PRF/PIF activities were assessed by the ability of PP extracts to alter PRL release from cultured anterior pituitary cells. The PP were extracted with perchloric acid and lyophilized, thus eliminating endogenous dopamine. PRF activity in PP extracts from 10- and 20 day-old (d) rats was very low, increased gradually in 30d and 40d rats, and remained unchanged in adult (90d) rats. In a second experiment, age-related changes in anterior pituitary responsiveness to PP extracts from adult rats and to TRH were determined. The responsiveness of anterior pituitary cells from 10d rats to PRF was low, increased dramatically in cells from 20d rats, and was reduced in cells from 30d and adult rats. The responsiveness to TRH was highest in cells from 10d rats. In a third experiment, anterior pituitary responsiveness to age-matched PP extracts was assessed. Only PIF activity was observed when PP extracts from 10d rats were incubated with anterior pituitary cells from 10d rats. In contrast, PP extracts from 20d, 30d and adult rats exhibited only PRF activity when incubated with age matched cells.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515465 TI - Growth hormone response to growth hormone releasing factor in Alzheimer's disease. AB - Because of the well-established reduction in the concentration of somatostatin in several brain areas of patients with histologically verified Alzheimer's disease, we sought to determine if growth hormone (GH) secretion is altered in Alzheimer's disease. In order to study this, we assessed the GH response to growth hormone releasing factor (GRF) in 8 patients with Alzheimer's disease and 8 age-matched controls. Although there was no difference between the magnitude of the GRF induced GH response (delta max GH response or area under the curve) between the Alzheimer's disease patients and the controls, the Alzheimer's patients exhibited a delayed GH response to GRF. PMID- 2515466 TI - Corticosteroid receptors and glucocorticoid content in microdissected brain regions: correlative aspects. AB - Stereoselective competition was used to determine (3H)-aldosterone binding to type I corticosteroid receptors, and (3H)-dexamethasone binding to type II receptors in punches obtained from 11 brain regions of short-term adrenalectomized (ADX) rats. It was observed that type I receptor binding was almost exclusive of the hippocampus (HIPPO), while type II receptor binding was more generally distributed among HIPPO, cerebral cortex, lateral septum, ventromedial and arcuate hypothalamic nuclei, with lower levels in 6 additional regions studies. We determined corticosterone (CORT) in brain punches from ADX rats, ADX rats receiving CORT for 5 days, intact rats and intact rats receiving ACTH for 5 days. We correlated (3H)-ligand binding with CORT content in punches obtained from identical brain regions and showed a significant positive correlation in the case of the ADX plus CORT group, for type II corticosteroid receptors. Similarly, a significant correlation emerged with type II sites, when binding capacity was correlated with percentage increases of CORT in brain areas of rats receiving ACTH. It is suggested that in situations where CORT levels are elevated, changes in CORT retention throughout the brain occur as a function of the type II glucocorticoid receptor, although at the level of the HIPPO, both receptors may provide appropriate control of the CNS-pituitary-adrenal axis, according to the physiological or stress levels of circulating hormone. PMID- 2515467 TI - Stress selectively activates the vasopressin-containing subset of corticotropin releasing hormone neurons. AB - A functional ultrastructural assay was used to determine the response of corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) neurosecretory cells to short-term stress. Depletion of neurosecretory vesicles from axonal swellings in the external zone of the rat median eminence was used as a measure of functional activity. One hour of immobilization or 5 h of insulin-induced hypoglycemia caused marked depletion of vesicles from the vasopressin (VP)-containing CRH axons, but had no effect on the VP-deficient subpopulation of CRH axons. Injection of colchicine (100 micrograms) into the lateral ventricle also resulted in selective depletion of vesicles from the VP-containing subpopulation over the course of 5 h, with no depletion from the VP-deficient axons. By 24 h after injection of 100 micrograms colchicine, however, both the VP-containing and the VP-deficient axons were severely depleted of neurosecretory vesicles. These data demonstrate for the first time that the CRH neurosecretory system contains functionally distinct components, and that the VP secreting component may specifically mediate the ACTH response to short-term stress. PMID- 2515468 TI - Effects of trimipramine on sleep EEG, penile tumescence and nocturnal hormonal secretion. A long-term study in 3 normal controls. AB - Sleep EEG, nocturnal penile tumescence (NPT) and nocturnal endocrine activity were studied in 3 male control subjects during placebo, under trimipramine (TR) and after withdrawal. TR did not change the sleep structure. NPT activity tended to increase under TR. Nocturnal plasma cortisol levels decreased markedly while the early morning rise of cortisol appeared delayed under 200 mg TR. After withdrawal the changes of the cortisol secretion rebounded. Nocturnal secretion of GH, testosterone, LH and FSH remained unaffected, but plasma prolactin levels increased under TR and returned to normalcy after cessation. Our data illustrate that the neurobiological effects of TR are different from those of other antidepressants. We suggest that some of the psychotropic effects of TR are mediated by suppression of cortisol. PMID- 2515469 TI - Compensation for behavioral disorders due to administration of 6-hydroxy-dopamine in transplantation of embryonic locus coeruleus tissue in rats. PMID- 2515470 TI - Role of vasopressin- and oxytocinergic cells of the magnicellular nuclei of the rat hypothalamus in thyroid gland regulation after administration of thyroliberin. PMID- 2515471 TI - Endotracheal tube obstruction: recognition and management. PMID- 2515472 TI - Barodontalgia and barotrauma in the human teeth: findings in navy divers, frogmen, and submariners of the Federal Republic of Germany. AB - From 2,580 submariners, divers, and frogmen, 13,618 individual findings were evaluated from a total of about 50,000 dental findings of the Nautical Medical Institute of the German Navy, Kiel, West Germany. Trend analysis and statistical significance tests showed that the teeth of navy divers and frogmen had deteriorated very much more within a period of 9 years after their first dental examination than those of submariners. This negative tendency was verified through additional direct comparison between 37 navy divers and 37 submariners whose dental states were observed during a period of 10 years. Here as well, navy divers had significantly worse teeth. The cause of this distinctive dental deterioration among navy divers is probably due to the additional barometric stress they were subjected to for many years during their diving career. Delayed damages as a result of barotrauma may be assumed, a logical suspicion which should be verified by further scientific research. PMID- 2515473 TI - A cluster of blister-associated toxic shock syndrome in male military trainees and a study of staphylococcal carriage patterns. AB - In March-April 1985, toxic shock syndrome (TSS) developed in three male military trainees at one base secondary to infected blisters acquired while marching during basic combat training. One trainee died. Staphylococcus aureus was isolated from the blisters in all three patients, and the two strains available for testing both produced toxic shock syndrome toxin-1 (TSST-1). A culture survey identified carriage of S. aureus in 44% (145/333) of the trainees; carriage rates did not differ between the company with two ill trainees and a control company. Carriage was more frequent in the nose than foot (41% versus 9%, p less than 0.0001). White trainees were more likely to carry S. aureus than black trainees (47% versus 28%, p = 0.013), although the same proportion of strains was positive for TSST-1 in both races. The two strains obtained from the patients had similar but not identical phage typing patterns, but had identical antibiograms, and neither strain carried any plasmids. Based upon phage typing of the TSST-1 positive S. aureus strains isolated in the study, widespread carriage of the case strain(s) in other trainees was not found nor was clustering noted by barrack room. It is possible that differences in carriage rates may partially explain the low rate of TSS in blacks. PMID- 2515474 TI - Malaria prophylaxis during military operations in Thailand. AB - Thai soldiers deployed along the Thai-Kampuchean border experience high attack rates of drug-resistant falciparum malaria. Adequate drug prophylaxis has proven difficult with the failure of chloroquine, pyrimethamine/sulfadoxine, and pyrimethamine/dapsone. Under some circumstances, mefloquine, doxycycline, and proguanil/sulfamethoxazole can successfully prevent falciparum malaria in Thailand. Decisions regarding chemoprophylaxis drugs in Thailand depend on a complex interaction of effectiveness, compliance, side effects, and long-term usefulness. PMID- 2515475 TI - Lumbar disk disease in active duty military personnel. AB - We studied a group of active duty military personnel with well-defined, lumbar discogenic, radicular pain syndromes. Our study group included 29 patients, 12 of whom required surgery during the study period. Three of the 29 patients had to be medically retired from active military service. Two patients required permanent limited-duty assignment and 10 others required prolonged (6 months or more) periods of limited duty. These findings highlight the significant adverse impact of lumbar disk disease on fitness for full active duty in military personnel. PMID- 2515476 TI - Transcatheter embolization of small bowel anastomosis: a case report and review of the literature. AB - A 45-year-old woman underwent exploratory laparotomy for recurrent intra abdominal abscesses subsequent to a sigmoid resection for diverticulitis. Her postoperative course was complicated by massive hemorrhage from a small bowel anastomosis, which was successfully managed with transcatheter embolization. To our knowledge, this report documents only the second recorded successful embolization of a bleeding small bowel anastomosis. In certain high-risk patients, transcatheter embolization may be considered a useful adjunct in the management of gastrointestinal hemorrhage including anastomotic bleeding. PMID- 2515477 TI - Sustained operations of artillery crews in NBC and non-NBC environments. AB - The capability of artillery crews to perform fire missions was studied as a function of sustained time on the task and clothing condition. Crews wearing either the standard Army field duty uniform (BDU) or a chemical protective ensemble (MOPP gear) attempted to conduct missions for up to 24 hours. Each of three MOPP crews were able to perform for only a limited time (about 2 hours), primarily because they had problems working in a hot environment (approximately 90 degrees F). A BDU crew completed its scenario, which was conducted under similar environmental conditions. Times to fire rounds were much greater in the MOPP crews than the BDU crew, exemplifying the performance difficulties associated with wearing a bulky, restrictive ensemble that can degrade important skills and functions. PMID- 2515478 TI - The effect of perioperative blood transfusions on long-term survival of colon cancer patients. AB - Blood transfusions have repeatedly been shown to decrease the rejection rate of transplanted organs by inducing an as yet undetermined form of immunosuppression. To evaluate whether these transfusions also decrease resistance to tumor metastases, records of patients who underwent colon cancer surgery were reviewed. A comparison was made between those who received perioperative transfusions and those who did not receive blood with regard to long-term survival. Patients receiving transfusions were found to have a significantly lower long-term survival rate than those who did not receive perioperative transfusions. This finding was most pronounced in those patients who had grossly localized disease at the time of surgery. The use of transfusions at the time of colon cancer surgery may therefore be detrimental to the patient's long-term prognosis. PMID- 2515479 TI - Malpractice liability of the military physician. AB - This article discusses the immunity from personal malpractice liability given to military physicians under the Gonzales Act. Exceptions are discussed in relation to recent court decisions. PMID- 2515480 TI - Flexibility in the Navy Reserve Nurse Corps. AB - The Navy Reserve Nurse Corps faces a nursing shortage that reflects the national picture and holds major implications for the military patient care readiness of this nation. This account of the changing climate of nursing practice in the Navy Reserves offers observations on recruitment and retention strategies for the future. The rewards and pitfalls of flexible options to meet Reserve requirements are described and one Reservist's experience is detailed. PMID- 2515481 TI - HIV screening by the tri-service surgical specialties. AB - A 32-year-old HIV-positive black female underwent 70 days of intensive care after she developed acute fatty liver disease of pregnancy. During her hospitalization, multiple invasive procedures were performed on this patient and many residents, staff, nurses, and technicians were exposed to her body secretions. The patient was identified as HIV positive on a routine screen and denied any risk factors for AIDS. This case served as a catalyst to assess current screening efforts in the military for HIV. A questionnaire was distributed to OB/GYN, general surgery, and urology programs throughout the Army, Navy, and Air Force and the results are presented and discussed. PMID- 2515482 TI - A follow-up study of three hepatitis B virus markers in personnel from the Canadian Armed Forces. AB - Prevalence rates for three hepatitis B virus (HBV) markers in two groups of personnel within the Canadian Armed forces (1848 incoming recruits and 210 crew members from a destroyer) were determined. Blood specimens for analysis were provided twice. The initial prevalence rates fell at the lower end of the spectrum when compared with those found in United States military personnel, Canadian military health personnel, and certain Canadian civilian populations. Eleven recruits and one destroyer crew member seroconverted for at least one of the markers between the first and the second testing. Their serological profiles are discussed in detail. No transmission of HBV between individuals in the group of recruits studied was established. However, evidence was found for a probable limited transmission of HBV between two crew members of HMCS Margaree. These findings combined with the high cost of the hepatitis B vaccine indicate that mass immunization for HBV in the Canadian Forces population cannot be justified on the basis of this study. PMID- 2515483 TI - The Department of Military Medicine--a graduate medical education idea whose time has come. PMID- 2515484 TI - [Enteral nutrition in the critical neurosurgical patient. Effectiveness and tolerance of a prepared liquid diet]. AB - The response of prealbumin was studied in 15 neurosurgical patients following 7 days of enteral nutrition by Nutrisond. Baseline values were compared to day 4 and 7 to assess the degree of change. The prealbumin of day 7 versus baseline value showed a significant increase in the mean serum concentration (16.49 +/- 4.0 vs 19.75 +/- 4.2 mg %). All the patients tolerate well the enteral nutrition with Nutrisond. PMID- 2515485 TI - [Clinical evaluation of the efficacy of Ro 15-1788, Anexate after balanced intravenous anesthesia with flunitrazepam and fentanyl]. AB - Benzodiazepines are widely used as neuroleptics in anaesthesia, but they give rise to drowsiness at the end of surgery. Anexate is an imidazobenzodiazepine with specific antagonistic activity for benzodiazepines. We have administered 0.2 mg i.v. of the drug to 20 adult patients after anaesthesia with tiopentale (250 mg), pancuronium bromide (0.07 mg.kg-1), flunitrazepam (2 mg) and fentanyl (0.10 mg); after the first dose fentanyl was administered (0.10 mg) about every 30 minute. Analgesia was supplemented with nitrous oxide 66%. Blood pressure and heart rate did not changes significantly after Anexate; respiratory volume increased significantly in all cases (ANOVA P less than 0.001). Consciousness was rapidly resumed in all cases and patients demonstrated to be oriented in time and space soon after Anexate. In 14 out of 20 patients drowsiness reappeared after about 30 minute and further doses of 0.1 mg of the drug (to a maximum of 0.4 mg in some cases) were necessary. Side effects were rare and slight, their occurrence depending on the speed of administration. In our opinion a total dose of 0.3 to 0.4 mg Anexate is need to fully antagonize the sedative effect of 2 mg flunitrazepam. PMID- 2515486 TI - [Amino acid profile in patients with orthotopic liver transplant]. AB - Plasma amino acids profile is assumed to be a good index of whole body amino acids balance and in particular to give information on the actual control of the transplanted liver on protein metabolism. Variations in plasma amino acids profile were studied in 12 patients undergoing orthotopic liver transplantation. Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) was maintained at 26.05 +/- 1.53 kcal/kg and 0.117 +/- 0.01 gN/kg until the 7th postoperative day. Following this, an enteral nutrition (EN) was added as to maintain a mixed metabolic therapy at 30.28 +/- 2.76 kcal/kg and 0.198 +/- 0.01 gN/kg. Such a treatment completely satisfied the caloric needs, while nitrogen input was prudently kept low in accordance to the lack of data on the metabolic effectiveness of the transplanted liver. Amino acids profiles showed an early metabolic recovery of the new liver. Therefore nitrogen input could be higher and more adequate to nitrogen needs. PMID- 2515487 TI - Glomerulosclerosis: insights into pathogenesis and treatment. PMID- 2515488 TI - Recurrent thrombosis and renal vascular disease in patients with a lupus anticoagulant. AB - In five patients suffering from recurrent thrombosis and/or fetal death, a lupus anticoagulant was associated with a renal vasculopathy. Ischaemic episodes also involved the skin, heart, eyes and/or central nervous system. All patients were hypertensive. Two had renal insufficiency, two had non-nephrotic proteinuria, and in the last patient renal cortical ischaemia was detected by a tomographic scan in the absence of proteinuria. Renal biopsy showed thrombosis and/or intimal fibrosis of intrarenal vessels, and normal or ischaemic glomeruli without proliferative lesions. High-titres of anticardiolipin antibodies were found in 3 of 3 cases, and persisted after steroid therapy even if the circulating anticoagulant factor disappeared. All patients received corticosteroid therapy, alone or in combination with immunosuppressive drugs; two patients had prolonged oral anticoagulation, but thrombotic episodes recurred after stopping the drug. One patient died; the remaining four survived 18 months to 11 years after diagnosis, with stable chronic renal insufficiency in one of them. These results show that a lupus anticoagulant may be associated with prominent renal vascular disease, in the absence of proliferative glomerular lesions, and suggest that continuous anticoagulation may be beneficial in these patients. PMID- 2515489 TI - Similar risks of nephropathy in patients with type I or type II diabetes mellitus. AB - It is commonly assumed that in patients the risks of developing nephropathy and uraemia are high in type I and low in type II diabetes mellitus. Since type II occurs mostly in elderly individuals with limited life expectancy and high cardiovascular mortality, the true risk may have been underestimated, as many patients do not survive to experience renal complications. To assess renal risk further, we evaluated all patients with type II and type I diabetes mellitus without severe secondary disease who were followed in the outpatient clinic between 1970 and 1985. The cumulative risk of proteinuria after 20 years of diabetes mellitus was 27% in type II and 28% in type I, the findings after 25 years were 57% and 46% respectively. The cumulative risk of renal failure, i.e. serum creatinine greater than 1.4 mg/dl, after 3 years of persisting proteinuria was 41% in both type II and type I, and after 5 years of proteinuria were 63% and 59% respectively. We conclude that the renal risk is similar in patients with type II and type I diabetes mellitus. PMID- 2515490 TI - C-reactive protein in acute renal failure. AB - This paper demonstrates the utility of C-reactive protein (CRP) in the diagnosis of infection in patients with acute renal failure. C-reactive protein can be assayed using plasma as effectively as using serum, thus avoiding the problems of microclots in serum, which can occur in samples from a heparinised patient. Plasma concentrations of C-reactive protein are unaffected by the process of haemodialysis. In the complicated setting of the severely ill patient with acute renal failure, infection remains the most common cause of death and its detection is often difficult. The use of C-reactive protein assay in this setting is illustrated by data from 20 patients, and two representative cases are described in detail. It is recommended that C-reactive protein be assayed daily to aid in the detection of infection in patients with acute renal failure. PMID- 2515491 TI - Continuous arteriovenous haemofiltration in the newlyborn with acute renal failure and congenital heart disease. AB - Newlyborn infants with congenital heart disease who develop acute renal failure are particularly difficult to treat. There are often complex associated medical problems and the mortality is high. Continuous arteriovenous haemofiltration (CAVH) provides a slow and gentle removal of fluid, together with the possibility of correcting metabolic abnormalities. We used CAVH in six newlyborn infants all with severe congenital heart disease, who developed acute renal failure early in life. In four patients it was necessary to insert a blood pump into the circuit to maintain adequate blood flow. CAVH alone, with or without a blood pump, was unable to reduce the plasma urea and creatinine, and in three of the infants, dialysis across the filter was required. CAVH was effective in controlling fluid balance. Although mortality remains high we feel CAVH has an important role in selected patients. PMID- 2515493 TI - Critical role of iron overload in the increased susceptibility of haemodialysis patients to bacterial infections. Beneficial effects of desferrioxamine. AB - Iron overload, which is a common complication in haemodialysis patients, is known to enhance bacterial growth and virulence, and to alter phagocytosis. We reviewed the data of 61 haemodialysed patients to clarify the clinical relevance of iron status to the risk of bacterial infection. Increased concentrations of serum ferritin were associated with a greater infection rate (P less than 0.0025), which was already true for ferritin values between 500 and 1000 micrograms/l (P less than 0.025). Furthermore, in 21 iron-overloaded patients treated with an iron-chelator (desferrioxamine), the infection rate decreased from 1/19 patient months to 1/112 (P less than 0.005), and returned to previous values when desferrioxamine was stopped. Our results demonstrate the importance of haemosiderosis in the increased susceptibility of haemodialysed patients to infections; this susceptibility is decreased by desferrioxamine therapy, which probably acts by restoring phagocytosis and reducing the bioavailability of iron for pathogens. PMID- 2515492 TI - The estimation of dietary protein intake in chronic renal failure. AB - Forty-five adult clinic patients with chronic renal failure each supplied a 4-day weighed dietary record, a 24-h urine collection, and a nocturnal spot urine sample. Total nitrogen (N) losses derived from the urines were corrected for proteinuria and non-urea nitrogen excretion. Individual estimates of N intake were compared by correlation and assessing the level of agreement. Daily urea N excretion derived from the spot sample correlated well with the 24-h collection P less than 0.001, but the degree of agreement was poor, mean difference being +1.62 g with 95% limits of +5.7 to -2.47 g. The correlation between the spot sample-derived N loss and dietary N intake was poor, r = 0.42; P less than 0.05. For 12 patients taking a low-protein diet, N intake correlated well with 24-h urine derived N losses, P less than 0.001, mean difference being +0.59 g, 95% limits +2.39 to -1.21 g. The correlation and agreement was less satisfactory for the subjects who had not received dietary instruction, due largely to individual variation in day-to-day protein intake. Use of spot urine samples is too inaccurate for routine clinical practice. Single 24-h urine derived estimates of N intake are only of value for assessing patients previously prescribed a low protein intake. PMID- 2515494 TI - Zinc deficiency and hyperprolactinaemia are not reversible causes of sexual dysfunction in uraemia. AB - We selected a group of male dialysis patients complaining of sexual dysfunction in whom penile vascular insufficiency and drug-induced impotence had been excluded. Monitoring of nocturnal penile tumescence was used to confirm organic disturbance. Patients with normal serum prolactin concentrations (n = 18) had significantly lower serum zinc values than normal controls (P less than 0.001) and were entered in a 6-month double-blind study comparing oral zinc acetate with placebo. Patients with elevated prolactin concentrations (n = 8) were entered in a 3-month double-blind crossover study comparing oral pergolide mesylate with placebo. In the zinc study, serum zinc concentrations increased (P less than 0.05) in the zinc-treated but not the placebo-treated group. One of nine patients receiving zinc reported improved sexual function, as did two of nine patients receiving placebo. There were no significant changes in sperm counts, nocturnal penile tumescence, testosterone, sex hormone binding globulin or gonadotrophin concentrations in either treatment group. In the pergolide study, serum prolactin values decreased (P less than 0.01) in the pergolide but not in the placebo treatment period. One patient reported improved sexual function during the pergolide treatment period and two during the placebo period. There were no significant changes in sperm counts, nocturnal penile tumescence, testosterone, sex hormone binding globulin or gonadotrophin concentrations after pergolide. These studies show no benefit of zinc or pergolide compared with placebo in the treatment of uraemic impotence. PMID- 2515495 TI - Peritoneal clearances with different dialysis regimens in children undergoing continuous cycling peritoneal dialysis. AB - Peritoneal clearances and dialysate protein losses occurring in paediatric patients undergoing different continuous cycling peritoneal dialysis (CCPD) regimens have not been well defined. We, therefore, evaluated 10 children aged 15.8 +/- 2.5 (SD) years who were maintained on home peritoneal dialysis for 20.5 +/- 10 months. All patients had at least 3 months of CCPD. The patients were admitted to the Clinical Research Center for 48 hours and allocated to five different dialysis protocols. In protocol I, the frequency of exchanges was 10 per 10 hours; in Protocol II it was 5 per 10 hours; and in Protocol III it was 3 per 10 hours. Protocol II D and III D had, in addition, a daytime dwell of one half the night-time volume. A 1.5% glucose dialysate solution was used for night time dialysis, and 4.25% glucose dialysate solution for the daytime dwell. The mean inflow dialysate volume per exchange was 36.7 +/- 5.6 ml/kg body weight and was constant in each patient for each study protocol. BUN and creatinine clearances for each protocol were calculated and dialysate protein losses were measured. The data indicate that hourly night-time dialysis (Protocol I) provides best solute clearance. A daytime dwell further enhances the total solute clearance and should be used preferably in anuric patients. Residual urine output contributes significantly to the total solute clearance. Protein losses are maximum with low-frequency exchanges and a daytime dwell. No significant differences in the serum albumin concentrations were found during the different protocols; however, the long-term effect of the protein loss on the nutritional status of the patients requires further evaluation. PMID- 2515496 TI - A longitudinal study of the effects of amino acid-based CAPD fluid on amino acid retention and protein losses. AB - During the evaluation of 1% amino acid solution as an alternative osmotic agent to glucose, we measured amino acids and proteins in dialysate, urine and plasma to evaluate the uptake of amino acids and their effects on membrane permeability. Eight patients (plasma albumin less than 35 g/l) were on 21 exchanges of glucose fluid for 4 weeks before and after 12 weeks, during which a solution of 15 amino acids (Baxter '151') was used for the morning exchange. The absorption of amino acids from the single daily '151' exchange increased during the study: 16.4 g at 4 weeks and 17.1 g after 12 weeks (P less than 0.01) with increases in eight amino acids. Amino acid uptake was related to the permeability characteristics of the patients. Following each '151' exchange, 1% of the amino acids absorbed were dialysed into subsequent glucose exchanges. Consequently the net daily gain was 15.0 g increasing to 15.6 g, whereas daily depletion during glucose exchanges was 1.8 g both before and after '151'. Clearance of five proteins increased both at the start and after 12 weeks of '151'. Total protein and prealbumin loss into dialysate increased by about 20%, and when glucose was restored loss of transferrin, albumin and immunoglobulin G decreased. Urinary concentrations were similar throughout. Amino acid uptake from '151' greatly exceeded all losses although our results suggest small reversible increases in macromolecular permeability of the peritoneum. PMID- 2515497 TI - Fatal cardiac zygomycosis in a renal transplant patient treated with desferrioxamine. PMID- 2515498 TI - Acute renal failure and tubular dysfunction associated with minimal change nephrotic syndrome. PMID- 2515499 TI - Aggressive immunosuppression in glomerulonephritis. PMID- 2515500 TI - CAPD: successful use in the treatment of nephrogenic ascites. PMID- 2515501 TI - Excitotoxicity of NMDA and kainic acid is modulated by nigrostriatal dopaminergic fibres. AB - The excitotoxic action of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) and of kinase (KA) has been assessed by measuring glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) and choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) activity in the rat striatum 5 days after focal microinjections of NMDA or KA. Prior unilateral lesioning of the nigrostriatal dopaminergic pathway by focal injection of 6-hydroxydopamine decreases the excitotoxic effect of NMDA and of KA. PMID- 2515502 TI - Food intake of rats depleted of dopamine as neonates is impaired by inhibition of catecholamine biosynthesis. AB - The food intake of rats depleted of brain dopamine (DA) as neonates was markedly reduced by doses of the catecholamine synthesis inhibitor. alpha-methyl-p tyrosine (AMT), that had little effect on control animals. In contrast, rats depleted of DA as neonates were subsensitive to doses of the DA antagonist, haloperidol, that greatly inhibited food intake in controls. Unexpectedly, low doses of haloperidol potentiated the effects of AMT in both control and DA depleted animals. These results suggest that activity within residual DA neurons may remain important for the expression of ingestive behavior in rats depleted of DA as neonates although the precise mechanisms may differ from those operating in normal animals. PMID- 2515503 TI - An in vitro study of the effect of lipoxygenase and cyclo-oxygenase inhibitors of arachidonic acid on the induction and maintenance of long-term potentiation in the hippocampus. AB - The effects on tetanus-induced long-term potentiation (LTP) of the lipoxygenase and phospholipase A2 inhibitor nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA), and of the cyclo oxygenase inhibitor indomethacin have been investigated in area CA1 of the hippocampal slice. In the presence of NDGA, tetanic stimulation of Schaffer collaterals produces an attenuated potentiation of the population excitatory postsynaptic potential (EPSP) lasting for less than 1 h. Indomethacin does not impair LTP of the EPSP. Neither drug significantly reduces LTP of the population spike. NDGA, but not indomethacin, reversibly reduces pre-established LTP. The results suggest a role for arachidonic acid or its lipoxygenase metabolites, but not its cyclo-oxygenase metabolites, in the induction and expression of tetanus induced LTP in area CA1. PMID- 2515505 TI - The ethics of "unnecessary testing". PMID- 2515504 TI - Increased diffusion of prolactin-like material into the brain neuropil from homologous adenohypophyseal transplants in the rat neostriatum after a 6-OH dopamine induced degeneration of the mesostriatal dopamine neurons. AB - Young adult female rats were used as donors and recipients of homologous adenohypophyseal transplants. The transplants were stereotaxically placed unilaterally into the intact and 6-hydroxy-dopamine (6-OH-DA) denervated neostriatum. In the 6-OH-DA-denervated neostriatum the zone of prolactin-like immunoreactivity was increased in the neuropil surrounding the adenohypophyseal transplant compared with that in the non-denervated neostriatum. These results indicate that the loss of neostriatal dopamine leads to an increase in prolactin release from the adenohypophyseal striatal transplant giving further evidence for the existence of volume transmission in brain. PMID- 2515506 TI - The Glenn A. Fry Award lecture 1988: the ocular response to contact lens wear. AB - Contact lens materials over the last 20 years have progressed from polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) through hydrogels to high Dk rigid and semi-soft lenses. Our understanding of how and why contact lenses affect the eye has also advanced considerably. We now know that: (1) the oxygen demands of the eye are high and (2) carbon dioxide accumulates and corneal acidosis occurs with most current contact lenses, especially with extended wear (EW). The effects of these perturbations on the epithelium include decreased metabolic rate, thinning, microcysts, and reduced adhesion. In addition, stromal edema and thinning and, with pressure, distortion occur with the long-term use of low to moderate oxygen transmissible lenses. Endothelial polymegethism also occurs and is a relatively permanent effect of inadequate oxygen permeability (Dk). The major consequence of chronic hypoxia and acidosis is, for a significant number of patients, corneal intolerance and discontinuation of lens wear. High permeability materials (100 Dk) that provide adequate gaseous exchange for daily wear and minimal changes in EW are now available and should be used where possible. The more obvious problems of contact lens-induced chronic inflammation, e.g., contact lens-induced papillary conjunctivitis (CLPC), and acute inflammation, e.g., acute red eye (ARE), are less well understood. Protein deposits, lens ageing, occlusion, mechanical effects, and bacterial contamination have all been implicated. The remaining frontiers include understanding and avoiding the stimuli to low grade irritation and inflammation by making contact lenses more comfortable and improving their compatibility with the ocular surfaces. PMID- 2515507 TI - Scheie's syndrome. An ultrastructural analysis of the cornea. AB - The histopathology of a corneal graft specimen obtained from a patient with Scheie's syndrome (systemic mucopolysaccharidosis, type IS) is described with particular emphasis on the ultrastructural findings. Numerous vacuoles containing fibrillogranular material were found in the corneal epithelial cells, the keratocytes, and the endothelial cells. The basement membrane of the epithelium contained frequent breaks and peg-like undulations, and Bowman's layer was markedly attenuated. Fibrous long-spacing (FLS) collagen featured prominently in the stroma. Descemet's membrane was normal. The findings of a markedly attenuated Bowman's layer and FLS collagen may be abnormalities specific to Scheie's syndrome resulting from the altered glycosaminoglycan composition of the extracellular matrix. PMID- 2515508 TI - Evolving quality management through curriculum offerings. PMID- 2515509 TI - Regional blood usage review: a quality assessment study from New Jersey hospitals. AB - In 1986, the American Red Cross/New Jersey Blood Service (NJBS) conducted a blood utilization review of the use of red blood cells (RBCs), platelets, and fresh frozen plasma (FFP) in nine hospitals in the NJBS region. The director of NJBS analyzed the collected data and categorized the justification criteria for blood transfusion. Their study found that female patients and patients over 60 years of age are the largest users of blood products, the average number of RBC units used is three, and the most common indication for RBC use is hypovolemia due to surgery. There was a high degree of compliance with justified criteria of use for RBC transfusion, although platelet and FFP use and pretransfusion nursing documentation require improvement. PMID- 2515510 TI - Using severity information for quality assessment: a review of three cases by five severity measures. AB - Five severity measurement systems--APACHE II, Computerized Severity Index, Disease Staging (both Q-Scale and clinical criteria version), MedisGroups, and Patient Management Categories--were applied to three clinical cases. Severity results and recommendations for quality review were then compared and contrasted. Systems that define severity based on resource need produce different impressions than those that define severity in more clinical terms. In-depth quality review is generally suggested when severity scores later in the hospital stay are higher than at admission. Recommendations for review may be automatic or tied to other factors. Some systems use normative data, based on observed severity patterns and patient outcomes, to guide decisions about quality reviews. PMID- 2515511 TI - The use of decision analysis in quality assessment. AB - Now that major efforts are being made to develop clinical indicators, it is also imperative that participants in quality assurance programs have useful mechanisms to review data derived on the basis of these indicators. The decision tree is one means of conceptualizing clinical problems in a manner that can enhance both the development and review of clinical indicators. The decision tree can assist in presentation of clinical decisions and outcomes. When applied to specific clinical indicator data, such as a failure to order diagnostic tests, or to a trend of failure to follow a standard protocol for admissions, decision trees and decision analysis can assist in the review of quality and appropriateness of care. Both individual cases and trends lend themselves to decision analysis, which can help determine the decisions likely to be appropriate. When numerical data are available, decision analysis can provide quantitative evaluations of clinical and quality assurance data. PMID- 2515512 TI - National Practitioner Data Bank highlights risk management meeting. PMID- 2515513 TI - [Mycobacteriosis--tuberculosis]. PMID- 2515514 TI - [Intra-amniotic Rivanol injection for the mid-term interruption of pregnancy]. AB - Authors report their experiences about the use of intraamniotic Rivanol injection in the interruption of midtrimester pregnancies. Instillation was made between 15 24 gestation weeks with the use of 0.1% Rivanol solution in 108 cases. The abortion occurred averagely 36.9 hours after induction without remarkable complications in all cases. According to their experiences the intraamniotic Rivanol injection is an effective and safe method for the interruption of second trimester pregnancies. PMID- 2515515 TI - [Esophago-bronchial fistula originating in an esophageal diverticulum]. AB - In connection with an esophageal diverticulum the case of an infrequent acquired esophago-bronchial fistula appearing in symptom-poor form is described. The fistula persisted over a long period however owing to the poor symptoms and absence of pulmonary complications operation was left out of consideration. In the course of the regular control the complaints of the patient ceased and the endoscopy showed shrinking of the fistula. No similar observation was found in the Hungarian literature. PMID- 2515516 TI - Killing of Plasmodium falciparum by human monocyte-derived macrophages. AB - Freshly isolated human peripheral blood monocytes inhibited the growth of blood stage asexual Plasmodium falciparum parasites in vitro. The monocytes contained intracellular parasite pigment and a few whole parasites, but the remaining parasites reinvaded fresh red cells successfully and were morphologically normal. Anti-parasitic activity of these macrophages was not significantly enhanced by treatment with recombinant tumour necrosis factor alpha, recombinant gamma interferon or lymphoblastoid alpha-interferon. Catalase had no effect on this parasite inhibition, suggesting a hydrogen peroxide independent mechanism. Anti parasitic activity was, however, enhanced by prior maturation of the monocytes. Monocytes matured for 6 days caused 100% killing of parasites. In contrast to identical concentrations of freshly isolated monocytes the parasites incubated with these matured macrophages showed intraerythrocytic death similar to the crisis forms seen in vivo. gamma-interferon present either during the assay or as a pretreatment had no significant enhancing effect on the killing, although cytotoxicity to tumour cell lines was enhanced. Conditioned medium from macrophages showed only moderate parasite inhibition. PMID- 2515517 TI - Genetic control of immune response to a purified Schistosoma mansoni antigen. II. Establishment and characterization of specific I-A and I-E restricted T-cell clones. AB - T-cell lines and clones specific for a partially protective schistosome antigen (9B antigen) were established from mice immunized with such antigen. The H-2 congenic strains B10.A which express both I-A and I-E class II gene products of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) and B10.A(4R) which only express I-A molecules were used in these studies. The specific T-cell lines recognized the 9B antigen in the context of either A or E molecules, but both class II antigens were necessary for maximal stimulation of the T-cell lines in lymphocyte proliferation assays. T-cell clones were derived from these lines and their MHC restriction was investigated. Both I-A and I-E restricted clones could be isolated. All clones were specific for 9B antigen showing different degrees of cross-reactivity with a total schistosome extract (CA sonicate). A correlation between the fine specificity of the clones and the expression of class II antigens was demonstrated. Clones specific for 9B antigen, or which reacted to the same extent with 9B antigen and CA sonicate, were I-A restricted, whereas clones which proliferated more in the presence of CA sonicate were all I-E restricted. This suggests that I-E restricted clones recognize more cross reactive epitopes than I-A restricted clones. These antigen-specific T-cell clones should provide a useful tool for examining the role of class II antigens in the modulation of protective immune response during Schistosoma mansoni infection. PMID- 2515518 TI - Portal system peculiarities may contribute to resistance against schistosomes in 129/J mice. AB - Using the technique of latex microsphere injection into a mesenteric vein, evidence has been obtained for a 'leaky' portal system in 129/J mice maintained in this institute (WEHI 129/J) and also in C57BL/6 mice. Thus, 20-microns beads injected into the portal venous system of BALB/c and (BALB/cx129/J)F1 mice are trapped efficiently in the liver whereas in many 129/J and C57BL/6 mice the bulk of the injected beads is found in the lungs. Peculiarities in the hepatic portal system may thus contribute to resistance of WEHI 129/J mice (and to a lesser extent C57BL/6 mice) to infection with Schistosoma mansoni and S. japonicum. The possibility is raised by the data that increased access to, or residency times in, the lungs increases opportunities for expression of anti-schistosome immune responses and, in particular, the effects of recently described T-cell-initiated inflammatory responses in this organ. The variability within groups of WEHI 129/J and C57BL/6 mice in susceptibility to schistosomes as well as hepatic trapping of injected microspheres suggests that an infection of unknown type, proposed by others, contributes to the several peculiarities that have been described in at least 129/J mice. PMID- 2515520 TI - [Evaluation of a biotinylated probe for identification of Neisseria gonorrhoeae]. AB - We evaluated a DNA biotinylated probe for the rapid identification of Neisseria gonorrhoeae in culture (Ortho Diagnostics System, Raritan, NJ). Twenty-one strains of N. gonorrhoeae, including type strain, 57 strains of other Neisseria species, and 104 strains of other genera were studied. The probe was highly sensitive (100%) and specific (96%). All N. gonorrhoeae strains gave strong signals, and only two cross-reaction were observed with N. lactamica, which has a close genetic relationship to N. gonorrhoeae. Our results indicate that specific recombinant DNA probe should offer a reliable and rapid method for routine diagnosis of Neisseria gonorrhoeae. PMID- 2515519 TI - [Activity of 5 fluoroquinolones on hospital Gram-negative bacilli with different sensitivities to pefloxacin]. AB - The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of 5 fluoroquinolones, fleroxacin (FLE), ciprofloxacin (CIP), ofloxacin (OFL), enoxacin (ENO) and norfloxacin (NOR) have been determined by the agar dilution method towards 140 strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Pa) and 146 Enterobacteriaceae showing different sensitivities to pefloxacin (PEF). The strains were isolated in 1988 at the Bellevue Hospital. The modal MIC is 0.12 for CIP, 0.25 for NOR, 0.5 for OFL, and 1 for FLE and ENO when used on Pa strains which are sensitive to PEF (n = 35) (MIC less than or equal to 1mg/1). The modal MIC is 0.25 - 0.5 for CIP, 0.5 for NOR, 1 for OFL and ENO, and 2 for FLE when used on Pa strains which are of intermediate sensitivity to PEF (n = 70) (1 less than MIC less than or equal to 4). The modal MIC is 2 for CIP, 8 for NOR and OFL, 8 - 16 for ENO, and 32 for FLE when used on Pa strains which are resistant to PEF (n = 35) (MIC greater than 4). The modal MIC is 0.015 for CIP, 0.06 for OFL, 0.12 for FLE, NOR and ENO when used on Escherichia coli strains which are sensitive to PEF (n = 47). The modal MIC is 0.5 for CIP, 1 for OFL and NOR, and 2 FLE and ENO, when used on Escherichia coli strains which are of intermediate sensitivity to PEF (n = 38). The modal MIC is 1 for CIP, 4 for OFL and NOR, 16 for FLE, and 32 for ENO when used on E coli strains which are resistant to PEF (n = 15). The 26 Serratia marcescens and 20 Citrobacter with MIC greater than or equal to 8 for PEF all have MICs greater than 1 and modal MICs greater than or equal to 4 for all the fluoroquinolones studied. CIP always showed greater activity than the other quinolones whatever the sensitivity shown towards PEF. PMID- 2515521 TI - [Neisseria meningitidis: serogroup Y. Apropos of 38 cases]. AB - Thirty-eight cases of infections due to Neisseria meningitidis serogroup Y have been studied. They correspond to the strains sent to the Laboratory (Centre National de Reference since 1987). Their repartition was: meningitidis 9 cases, purpura fulminans (6), septicaemia (5), respiratory syndroms (11), asymptomatic carriage (4), various (3). Patients were 4 months to 86 years old. Mortality was 13.2%. One third or meningitis or meningococcemia happened in correlation with complement deficiency or splenectomy. In most of cases bacterial diagnosis was made by general laboratories but only in two cases over 38 the serogrouping Y was made. PMID- 2515522 TI - [Changes of the necrotic area and functional indices of the myocardial microcirculatory bed during the treatment of experimental myocardial infarct with nitroglycerin, alpha-tocopherol and sodium nucleinate]. AB - A new non-injection method was used to study the quantitative values characterizing the condition of the microcirculatory channel of the peri-infarct zones of rat myocardium without treatment and in treatment with nitroglycerin, alpha-tocopherol, and sodium nucleinate. In combined administration of these agents the total number of capillaries per unit of tissue volume increased, with subsequent increase of the capillary diameter, the exchange surface and the capacity of the capillary channel. These changes in the micro-circulatory channel were reflected in reduction of the focus of myocardial infarction. The authors discuss the mechanisms of the limiting effect of the complex of agents on restriction of the focus of affection in the early and late terms of myocardial infarction development. PMID- 2515523 TI - Safety of aerosol tobramycin administration for 3 months to patients with cystic fibrosis. AB - To determine the potential toxicity of prolonged aerosol tobramycin administration, 22 patients with cystic fibrosis were monitored while receiving inhaled tobramycin three times a day for 12 weeks. Prior to, four times during administration and approximately 6 weeks after discontinuation of treatment, we assessed pulmonary function, weight, height, body temperature, eighth cranial nerve function, serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, urinary creatinine clearance, plasma iothalamate clearance, urinary beta-2 microglobulin concentration, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa density in sputum. There was no detectable laboratory evidence of nephrotoxicity. Neither a decrease in auditory acuity (range 250-20,000 Hz) nor vestibular dysfunction was detected. Pulmonary function tests significantly improved during the first month in all subjects (P less than 0.05) but returned to enrollment values by the end of the 12th week of administration of tobramycin aerosol. Sputum P. aeruginosa density initially decreased from a mean of 10(7) cfu/gm to a mean of 10(4) cfu/gm after 2 weeks of aerosol tobramycin administration and remained significantly below the enrollment value throughout. Coincident with the reduced bacterial density, a reduction in cough frequency and sputum production, as well as a weight gain was observed. Seventy-three percent of the patients with sputum P. aeruginosa isolates susceptible to tobramycin on enrollment yielded resistant organisms during aerosol administration. However, 1 year later all sputum P. aeruginosa isolates obtained from patients were susceptible to tobramycin. We conclude that thrice daily aerosol tobramycin administration for 3 months is not associated with detectable eighth cranial nerve or renal toxicity. Transient emergence of tobramycin resistant P. aeruginosa may occur. PMID- 2515524 TI - The bioavailability of three altretamine formulations. AB - The bioavailability of two altretamine preparations was studied in a randomized cross-over design. The two preparations were compared with a third in a parallel design. Dissolution differences between the preparations were observed, which could give rise to differences in bioavailability caused by the extensive first pass effect of altretamine. The in vivo data showed a trend to differences in bioavailability. PMID- 2515526 TI - Nurses' assessment of DRGs on quality patient care. AB - DRGs have forced hospitals to run in a more business-like manner. This article looks at how a survey group of nurses perceives the impact of DRGs on patient care. PMID- 2515525 TI - Patient clothing. Time for a change. PMID- 2515527 TI - [Misoprostol and de-nol in the treatment of patients with cimetidine-resistant stomach ulcer]. AB - Both misoprostol (synthetic PGE1 analog) and De-Nol (factor releasing endogenous prostaglandins in the gastric mucosa) can be useful in the treatment of patients with gastric ulcer resistant to cimetidine according to their gastroprotective properties. 64 patients whose gastric ulcer had not healed after 6 weeks of therapy with cimetidine in daily dose of 1000 mg were treated in a comparative short-term trial to assess the relative efficacy of misoprostol (Cytotec; Searle) in daily dose of 800 micrograms (I group; n = 32) and colloidal bismuth subcitrate (De-Nol; Gist-Brocades), four times a day in dose of 5 ml diluted with 15 ml of water (II group; n = 32). Both groups of patients were comparable according to age, sex, duration of ulcer disease, smoking habits, gastric acid secretion, ulcer size and localization in the stomach. The ulcer healing was controlled endoscopically after 2 and 4 weeks of the treatment. Healing rates after 2 weeks of therapy appeared to be 47% for misoprostol and 34% for De-Nol. After 4 weeks of therapy the healing rates were 72% with misoprostol and 63% with De-Nol. No statistically significant differences in the therapeutic efficacy were observed between two groups of the patients. No correlation was found between the ulcer healing rates and size of ulcer, its localization or smoking habits. The moderate side effects (transient diarrhea) were observed in 22% of patients treated with misoprostol. These findings suggest that misoprostol is as effective as De-Nol in the treatment of gastric ulcers resistant to cimetidine. PMID- 2515528 TI - Xanthogranuloma: report on clinical and histologic findings in 64 patients. AB - Although xanthogranulomas are frequently encountered by pediatricians and dermatologists, data on the course of this tumor are restricted to several series with limited follow-up. We report on our experience with 64 patients whom we were able to identify from the surgical files. Our data support the currently held view that xanthogranulomas are generally benign, self-limited lesions. They may persist or continue to erupt for years, however, particularly in individuals who develop the first lesion after age 20 years. PMID- 2515529 TI - Red cell folate concentrations in patients with Crohn's disease on parenteral nutrition. AB - To examine changes in the folate concentrations in red cell during relatively long-term total parenteral nutrition (TPN), 10 Japanese patients with Crohn's disease (7 males), the mean Crohn's disease activity index on admission being 211, were given folic acid in a dose of 400 micrograms/day (AMA-FDA formulation) or 800 micrograms/day for 6-16 weeks (mean 10.5). The red cell folate concentrations were determined before TPN and once every week or 2-4 weeks thereafter. The folate concentrations were very low even after TPN with folic acid of 400 micrograms/day. In those given 800 micrograms of daily folic acid, the folate levels tended to increase, but did not reach the normal range. We propose that folic acid over 800 micrograms/day or a double dose of AMA-FDA formulation should be prescribed for Crohn's disease treated with long-term TPN. PMID- 2515530 TI - The anti-phospholipid antibody syndrome in a 77 year old man with digital gangrene. AB - A 77 year old man with digital gangrene of his left hand had anti-phospholipid antibodies, the lupus anticoagulant and antcardiolipin antibodies. This patient, as far as we are aware, is the first elderly person to present in such fashion with this uncommon syndrome. PMID- 2515531 TI - Valproate and spina bifida. PMID- 2515532 TI - Preparative high performance chromatography of a major browning compound derived from lysine and glucose. AB - A major browning compound derived from lysine and glucose was purified by high performance chromatography on a RP8 column after several extractions in methanol plus acetonitrile. This compound was separated by a main contaminant corresponding to unreacted lysine by extracting the aminoacid after its derivatization with ninhydrin. PMID- 2515533 TI - The enzyme-activated irreversible inhibitor of ornithine decarboxylase, DL-alpha difluoromethylornithine: a chemopreventive agent. AB - DL-alpha-Difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) is an enzyme-activated irreversible inhibitor of mammalian ornithine decarboxylase. DFMO, when administered in drinking water, precludes increases in the levels of intracellular putrescine and spermidine and also inhibits the induction of skin, breast, colon, urinary bladder, and intestinal cancers in experimental animal models. DFMO may be a useful drug for cancer prevention in humans; however, long-term medication with higher doses (9 g/m2/day) of DFMO has resulted in several toxic side effects such as thrombocytopenia and reversible ototoxicity. Smaller doses (less than 1 g/m2/day), selected by our in vitro human skin punch biopsy assay, may be given for a longer period without appreciable toxicity. Further evaluation in human cancer prevention trials is indicated. PMID- 2515534 TI - Differentiation of Sarcocystis species in European sheep by isoelectric focusing. AB - Isoelectric focusing was carried out on total proteins derived from cystozoites of Sarcocystis tenella, S. arieticanis and S. gigantea. The overall protein profile of each species was distinct and reproducible and enabled the unequivocal differentiation of the three Sarcocystis species. In total, approximately 60 bands could be counted for S. tenella and S. arieticanis and approximately 45 bands for S. gigantea cystozoites in the pH range of 3-9. Isoelectric points (pIs) were determined for dominant peaks of densitometric scans of gels in the pH range of 3-9 (cathodal and anodal sample application) and arbitrary identification numbers were assigned to 25 (5 and 20) peaks of S. tenella, 25 (8 and 17) peaks of S. arieticanis and 21 (7 and 14) peaks of S. gigantea; similar assignments were also used for 11 peaks of S. tenella, 18 peaks of S. arieticanis and 12 peaks of S. gigantea observed on densitometric scans of gels in the pH range of 4-6.5. PMID- 2515535 TI - Prostanoids during acute sarcocystiosis in growing pigs. AB - The stable metabolites of thromboxane A2, prostaglandin E2, and prostaglandin F2 alpha (TxB2, PgEM, and PgFM, respectively) were measured in the blood plasma of nine castrated male pigs, each inoculated with 2 x 10(5) sporocysts of Sarcocystis miescheriana (group A), and in that of nine non-infected controls (group B). All infected pigs developed mild disease, the clinical signs being most severe between days 14 and 17 post infection (p.i.). In the infected pigs of group A, the TxB2 plasma levels increased with the onset of the acute phase of illness (12 days p.i.), reaching peak values at day 14 p.i. The mean TxB2 values were significantly higher in the infected pigs from day 12 p.i. until the termination of the experiment on day 21 p.i. The PgEM values increased steadily in the infected pigs from day 12 p.i. until day 21 p.i. but remained relatively constant in the control pigs during the same period. In contrast, PgFM values remained low in the infected pigs throughout the experiment, and no significant differences between infected and non-infected pigs could be found. We conclude that the elevated TxB2 and PgEM values reflect a major involvement of prostanoids in the pathogenesis of sarcocystiosis. PMID- 2515536 TI - Immune complexes in serum of rats during infection with Plasmodium berghei. AB - Large amounts of immune complexes were present in the serum of infected rats early in infection when parasitemias were low. As the infection progressed and parasitemia increased and then decreased, the amounts of immune complexes in the serum also fell. This result suggests that increased efficiency of complex clearance was an important factor in determining the levels of immune complexes in the serum. In high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), the complexes in the serum migrated as a peak with material of 350 kDa and greater in mass. They sedimented in a sucrose gradient as a band with a sedimentation coefficient of 22 s, which was calculated to yield a mass of approximately 1100 kDa. Immunoelectrophoresis and radial immunodiffusion showed that IgG was the major immunoglobulin in the complexes. As the IgG content of the complexes increased, the levels of complexes in the serum generally decreased. HPLC analysis of precipitated complexes suggested that they contained loosely bound albumin. Serum proteins were affected by the infection. A depletion of free immunoglobulin was observed during the initial period of immune complex formation. PMID- 2515537 TI - Some ultrastructural data on the spore development in a Henneguya sp. parasite of the gill of a Brazilian fish. AB - A myxosporean Henneguya sp. was found in the gill filaments of a freshwater fish, Hoplosternum littorale, from the lower Amazon river near Belem, Brazil. Plasmodia were represented by numerous vegetative nuclei, generative cells and sporogony stages. The spore body was ellipsoidal and each valve presented a tapering tail approximately 45.2 microns in length. The spores differed from those of previously described species in their shape and size. The developmental stages are described and discussed. This histozoic species is reported to be pathogenic, inducing great mortality in the host. PMID- 2515538 TI - A new method for serodiagnosis of sheep fascioliasis using helminth excretory secretory products. AB - The diffusion-in-gel enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (DIG-ELISA) for antibodies to Fasciola hepatica was evaluated using adult fluke excretory-secretory products as antigen. The sensitivity and specificity of the test were compared with those of the indirect hemagglutination (IHA) technique. The results of the DIG-ELISA showed that the reaction zone diameters obtained with 42 sera from sheep with natural or experimental exposure to F. hepatica were significantly greater than those obtained with 85 sera from ovines infected with other parasites. Both sensitivity and specificity were 100% in the DIG-ELISA, whereas the sensitivity was 68.2% and the specificity was 100% in the IHA. The data suggest that the DIG ELISA is a valuable serodiagnostic test for sheep fascioliasis. PMID- 2515539 TI - Schistosomiasis and in vitro transdifferentiation of murine peritoneal macrophages into fibroblastic cells. AB - We developed a method for avoiding contamination by fibroblasts when cultures of peritoneal cells are initiated. Macrophages were identified by immunogold detection [light microscope, transmission (TEM) and scanning (SEM) electron microscopes] of membrane antigens (Mac-1+, Thy-1,2-), non-specific esterase activity and ultrastructural features (TEM). As compared with controls, the yield of peritoneal macrophages was 2- and 12-fold higher, respectively, in acutely and chronically infected mice. In all, 30 "chronic", 18 "acute" and 18 control cultures were followed up. At a given cell-density seeding, the decline of control, "acute" and "chronic" cultures starts at about day 10, 15, and 27, respectively. In "chronic" cultures only, fibroblast-like cells appear from day 6 onwards; their number increases with time. Cells showing characters intermediary between macrophages and fibroblasts were observed. We suggest that fibroblast like cells result from the in vitro transdifferentiation of a limited number of in vivo committed macrophages. PMID- 2515540 TI - Enhanced efficacy of the paddling method for schistosome infection of rodents by a four-step pre-soaking procedure. PMID- 2515541 TI - Nutrition, immune function, and inflammation: an overview. AB - The collective evidence suggests that nutritional insult to both cell-mediated and humoral immunity in the presence of protein-energy malnutrition contributes to abnormalities of inflammation. The primary goal of nutritional support in inflammatory disease is to provide adequate energy and protein to meet endogenous requirements for tissue repair, IL-1 production, and restored cellular function, thus preventing secondary infection. Substrate provision should aim at improving the acute phase of injury while avoiding immune dysfunction. This goal may be achieved by altering the eicosanoid pathway toward a more regulated inflammatory state. In the context of allograft response, macrophages are central to the initiation of allosensitization by virtue of their ability to present antigen to T-cells. Activated T-cells may further modulate macrophage function by the secretion of lymphokines. Manipulation of macrophage eicosanoid production by dietary omega-3 PUFA may reduce cellular immune response. (table; see text) Nutritional support should also focus on providing essential micronutrients, with their potentially immunomodulating role, as adjunctive therapy in order to protect the host from toxic effects of free-radicals and chemicals released during inflammatory events. (Feeding regimens currently under investigation and development are presented in Table 4.) By integrating dietary immunotherapy with the use of recombinant hormones, monoclonal antibodies, and various available monokines, an optimal outcome for each patient may be achieved. However, effective application of immunotherapy to nutritional supplementation will require accurate monitoring of immune function in individual patients in order to avoid inappropriate treatment. PMID- 2515542 TI - Inflammatory bowel disease: nutritional implications and treatment. AB - It is clear that the nutritional state of patients with inflammatory bowel disease is often impaired and that the provision of nutritional support results in an improvement in nutritional state of these patients. Improvement in nutritional status can be achieved as effectively with enteral as with parenteral nutrition. The nutritional support appears to have no primary therapeutic effect in patients with ulcerative colitis. With regard to nutritional support in Crohn's disease, parenteral nutrition should be restricted to use as supportive rather than primary therapy. Available information now seems to suggest that most of the benefits of parenteral nutrition in Crohn's disease are related to improvement in nutritional state rather than as primary therapy, and its use should be restricted to treatments of specific complications of Crohn's disease, such as intestinal obstruction, related to stricture formation or short bowel syndrome following repeated resection. The present available evidence indicates that defined elemental diets may have a primary therapeutic role in the management of first acute attacks of Crohn's disease when there is a need to improve the nutritional status of patients with inflammatory bowel disease as an adjunct to primary drug therapy. Enteral nutrition is as efficacious as parenteral nutrition; moreover, it is safer to administer and more cost effective. PMID- 2515543 TI - [To what purpose and which continuing professional education for nurses]. PMID- 2515544 TI - [Guidelines for the organizational analysis and trials of organizational models of nursing care]. PMID- 2515545 TI - [The performance of obstetrics]. PMID- 2515546 TI - [When the remedy is worse than the disease]. PMID- 2515547 TI - The human alpha 2-alpha 1-theta 1 globin locus: some thoughts and recent studies of its evolution and regulation. PMID- 2515548 TI - Altered myocardial prostaglandin synthesis in spontaneously diabetic rats. AB - Patients with diabetes mellitus have an increased susceptibility to heart disease. The exact mechanism for this phenomenon is unclear. Abnormalities in prostaglandin (PG) production have been suggested as a possible cause. In this connection, we examined the PG synthetic capacity of cardiac microsomes from spontaneously diabetic rats. Cardiac microsomes from diabetic and control rats produced varying amounts of 6-keto-PGF1 alpha (stable degradation product of PGI2), PGE2, PGD2, PGF2 alpha, and TXB2 (stable breakdown product of TXA2). In both instances the production of 6-keto-PGF1 alpha predominated, however, microsomes from diabetic rats showed markedly greater conversion of arachidonic acid to all the PG products, especially 6-keto-PGF1 alpha. When PGF2 alpha metabolism was detected between diabetic and control heart preparations. These results show an enhanced cyclooxygenase activity in diabetic rat hearts without any change in prostaglandin dehydrogenase activity. Such a change may promote some of the cardiac alterations seen in diabetic mellitus. PMID- 2515549 TI - Heat shock induces alterations of the lipoxygenase pathway in human polymorphonuclear granulocytes. AB - We have investigated the effect of the heat shock response on the leukotriene generation, chemotaxis, and generation of oxygen radicals of human polymorphonuclear granulocytes (PMNs) by preincubating the PMNs at 42 degrees C. Subsequently, the different test systems were performed at 37 degrees C. As we confirmed by the release of lactate dehydrogenase and beta-glucuronidase the elevated temperatures did not result in cytotoxic or degranulating processes. After heat shock treatment the generation of leukotrienes induced by the Ca(++) ionophore A23187, fMLP or opsonized zymosan was inhibited in a time and temperature dependent manner (preincubation phase) as was measured by HPLC analysis. In contrast, the conversion of 14C-arachidonic acid revealed the generation of LTB4, 5-HPETE and 5-HETE solely as a result of the preincubation at 42 degrees C without any further stimulation. In addition, the chemiluminescence response induced by opsonized zymosan and the chemotaxis against C5a and LTB4 was clearly inhibited after heat shock treatment. With regard to enzyme activities of the heat treated PMNs the protein kinase C activities were enhanced whereas the LTD4-dipeptidase and the LTB4-omega-hydroxylase were not affected. PMID- 2515551 TI - Lack of effect of the antidepressant compound bupropion on pineal indoleamines. AB - The effects of the antidepressant compound bupropion were studied on rat pineal indoleamines. A pharmacologically relevant dose of bupropion either acutely (20 mg/kg) or chronically (20 mg/kg/day for 12 days) had no significant effect on pineal melatonin synthesis or other pineal indoleamine concentrations. The significance of this finding is discussed in relation to the lack of effect of bupropion on beta-adrenergic receptors. PMID- 2515550 TI - Changes in arachidonic acid metabolite patterns in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. AB - The vasodepressor responses to intravenous injections of arachidonic acid, and the formation of its metabolites, were studied in rats made diabetic 1 or 2 weeks after a 1-dose alloxan treatment. Arachidonic acid dose-dependently decreased the diastolic blood pressure in normal animals, but this hypotensive effect was significantly weaker in 2-week postalloxan-treated rats. Indometacin abolished arachidonic-acid-induced depressor responses in both normal and diabetic animals. Hypotension induced by sodium nitroprusside was of the same magnitude in non diabetic and insulin deficient rats. Plasma levels of thromboxane B2 were significantly increased in both the 1- and 2-week diabetic rats, being greater in the latter group; those of 6-keto-PGF1 alpha remained unchanged during the 2-week diabetic period. It is concluded that the attenuation by diabetes of depressor responses to arachidonic acid could be due to changes in the thromboxane/prostacyclin balance, with thromboxane formation being elevated whereas prostacyclin generation remains unaffected. PMID- 2515552 TI - Quantitation of blood-brain barrier permeability by positron emission tomography. PMID- 2515553 TI - DRGs, the elderly, and Medicare: a triangle of ethical dilemmas. PMID- 2515554 TI - The effect of lithium on pupillary response to pulses of light in sheep. AB - Administration of lithium carbonate to sheep in the dose range of 600-1800 mg/day resulted in a linearly described rise in lithium levels in plasma and red blood cells. In contrast to the rodent model but in agreement with the human condition, plasma lithium levels exceeded those of red blood cells. Polydipsia and body weight changes were not evident. At plasma levels of 0.70-0.8 mM/l, lithium attenuated the ability of the pupil to constrict in response to 30-sec pulses of light in the 25-150 microW/cm2 intensity range but not the ability to dilate in the dark. Thus, similar to observations in normal human volunteers and bipolar patients, lithium reduces sensitivity to light. The sheep is proposed as a useful model for studying the actions of lithium. PMID- 2515555 TI - Myocardial infarction and antiphospholipid antibodies in SLE and related disorders. AB - The clinical and serological findings in 13 patients with myocardial infarction and antiphospholipid antibodies (the 'lupus anticoagulant', antibodies to cardiolipin, antibodies to phosphatidylethanolamine (one patient] seen by our unit and other units from 1984 to 1989, are presented (eight males and five females, ages ranging from 20 to 52 years). Five suffered myocardial infarction before the age of 30; four of these five were in their early 20s. Other risk factors such as excessive smoking (greater than 20 cigarettes a day) (two patients), long-term treatment with steroid (one) and use of oral contraceptives (one) were present. One patient had demonstrated a plasminogen activator deficiency and one a deficiency of protein C. Two patients developed myocardial infarction six to eight weeks after warfarin was discontinued for recurrent deep vein thrombosis. Six patients had SLE as defined by the revised 1982 criteria, three suffered from 'lupus-like' disease, while four patients conformed to a 'primary' antiphospholipid syndrome. PMID- 2515556 TI - [Possibilities of using bacterial cultures for the biological indication of relatively small doses of gamma radiation]. AB - Some approaches to using bacterial cultures as test objects in biological indication of relatively low gamma-radiation doses have been considered. The survival rate, mutability and induction of prophages in the lysogenic strains have been investigate. A model for the prophage induction in Pseudomonas aeruginosa is proposed to estimate the biological effect of gamma-irradiation with doses of 0.25 to 10 Gy. PMID- 2515557 TI - [Immunology of mycobacteria: various recent contributions to the field of tuberculosis]. PMID- 2515558 TI - Role of the ventrolateral medulla in the cardiovascular responses to changes in the carbon dioxide tension in the arterial blood. PMID- 2515559 TI - [Incidence of various types of viral hepatitis and its sequelae throughout the world]. AB - In the years 1980-1987 the incidence of virus hepatitis in the countries of the European Region of the WHO ranged widely, from a fraction of unity to several hundreds per 100 thousand of the population. In the countries, where a high incidence had been noted previously, a fall of this incidence was observed in recent years. Virus hepatitis A is a problem particularly in the developing countries and in closed population groups in the developed countries Virus hepatitis B is endemic in most regions of the world, and its prevalence is greatest in certain countries of Asia and Africa. The incidence is also fairly high in the countries of East and South Europe. The health importance of hepatitis B is considerable, especially in view of its sequelae. This problem could be dealt with by introduction of vaccinations, as yet in the high risk groups. Delta virus infection related to HBV occurs in all continents. In Europe its incidence is highest in the Mediterranean countries, Romania and the USSR. Virus hepatitis type non-A non-B transmitted parenterally predominates in developed countries, in patients receiving transfusions of blood and its preparations, after dialyses, and in recipients of organ transplants. Virus hepatitis non-A non-B transmitted with food is occurring in great epidemics or in foci in Asia, Africa and North America. Its characteristic feature is frequent occurrence in adults and high mortality in pregnant women. PMID- 2515560 TI - [Intrameniscal ossicle of the knee (lunula). Apropos of a case. Review of the literature]. AB - An intrameniscal ossicle was discovered and resected by arthroscopy in the anterior horn of a medial meniscus. Intrameniscal ossicles are exceptional; 33 cases are described in the literature. In the great majority of cases, they are discovered in the posterior horn of the medial meniscus in young males. These ossicles most often cause diffuse pain in the knee, but may be asymptomatic. Conservative treatment seems to be recommended in the majority of the cases. PMID- 2515561 TI - Effects of diethylstilboestrol on testicular function and luteinizing hormone receptors. AB - Adult male Fisher-344 rats were implanted with DES-filled or empty Silastic capsules. After 14 weeks, capsules were removed and a second group of rats received DES capsules. Seven weeks later, all the rats were sacrificed. DES treatment decreased body, testes and seminal vesicle weights, and removal of the capsules partially restored the weight of these organs. The concentration of testicular LH receptors was increased by DES treatment. Circulating PRL levels were increased and gonadotropin levels were reduced in all animals having received DES at anytime. Plasma testosterone (T) levels were similar in all groups, but testicular T levels were reversibly decreased by DES. Similarly, whereas basal incubation media T levels were unchanged by DES treatment, the steroidogenic response in vitro to hCG was abolished by the presence of DES, and removal of the capsules restored this response. It appears that in this animal model DES and PRL exert opposing effects on testicular LH receptor. PMID- 2515562 TI - [Effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on the binding of C-14 arachidonic acid by platelets from diabetic rats]. PMID- 2515563 TI - Drug susceptibility testing in tuberculosis: a comparison of the proportion methods using Lowenstein-Jensen, Middlebrook 7H10 and 7H11 agar media and a radiometric method. AB - In the present investigation, the conventional drug susceptibility testing procedures using the 1% proportion method on Lowenstein-Jensen (LJ) and Middlebrook 7H10/7H11 agar media were compared with a recent radiometric method. The latter using "Bactec 460-TB" apparatus and a special broth medium (Becton and Dickinson Diagnostic Instrument Systems, Towson, MD, USA) gave drug susceptibility results within a week as compared to 4-5 weeks with the LJ method, and 3-4 weeks using 7H10/7H11 agar media. This report describes the critical concentrations retained for each of the methods and the methodology used. Also, the compatibility of the results obtained with the radiometric method with those obtained with conventional 7H11 agar method was perfect. In this report, we justify the choice of the 7H11 agar method instead of the LJ method as our conventional drug susceptibility procedure, and suggest also that radiometric drug susceptibility determination by Bactec 460-TB apparatus may be the method of choice for routine, rapid drug susceptibility determinations. PMID- 2515564 TI - Selective inhibition of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex by p-nitro-alpha acetylamino-beta-hydroxypropio phenone (NAP) and p-nitrobenzoic acid (PNB) used in 7H11 agar medium. AB - The potential of p-nitrobenzoic acid (PNB) and p-nitro-alpha-acetylamino-beta hydroxypropiophenone (NAP) for discriminating the Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb) complex from other mycobacteria was evaluated in cases of clinical isolates. For this purpose, 500 micrograms/ml of PNB and 5 or 10 micrograms/ml of NAP were incorporated in 7H11 agar medium, and appropriate dilutions corresponding to about 10(6) viable units were then plated on PNB- or NAP containing media. Results were reported as growth or no growth as compared to a parallel control. Our data reconfirmed the potential of PNB to discriminate M.tb complex bacteria. This study also showed for the first time that the NAP test (used until now in 7H12a broth only) can also be successfully applied using 7H11 agar. Also, preliminary data with 5 micrograms/ml of NAP on a limited number of strains suggested that it may discriminate the M.tb complex bacilli from M. xenopi and M. gastri better than PNB in 7H11 agar. PMID- 2515565 TI - Amine oxidase released into plasma of rats treated with hepatotoxin allyl formate. AB - Amine oxidase activity in plasma of rats were investigated after pretreatment with the perilobular hepatotoxin allyl formate (AF). Amine oxidase activities in plasma elevated after administration of AF 0.1 ml/kg i.p. to male rats with 1 microM and 100 microM benzylamine (Bz), 10 microM beta-phenylethylamine (beta PEA) and 100 microM serotonin (5-HT) as substrates. But the complete inhibition of amine oxidase activities with 5-HT and beta-PEA were not observed by clorgyline as A-form MAO inhibitor and deprenyl as beta-form MAO inhibitor. The deamination of 1 microM Bz was not inhibited at high concentrations of these MAO inhibitors, while it was inhibited at low concentrations of phenelzine and semicarbazide. On the other hand, the deamination of 100 microM Bz was highly sensitive with these MAO inhibitors, while it was less sensitive with phenelzine and semicarbazide as compared with 1 microM Bz. Then, the Km values of amine oxidase in plasma of AF-administered rats with Bz as substrate were determined from Lineweaver-Burk double reciprocal plots. Two Km values for Bz of high and low Bz concentration in amine oxidase in plasma of AF-administered rats were obtained. However, this Km value of low Bz concentration was not obtained from liver mitochondria and microsomes of control rat and AF-administered rats. The Km value for beta-PEA of MAO in plasma of AF-administered rats was the same as the values of rat liver mitochondrial MAO. These results indicate that native mitochondrial MAO was released from the liver, and two or more distinct amine oxidases were released from other organs in response to AF. PMID- 2515566 TI - [Changes in (a-ET) PCO2 produced by acetazolamide in red cells, not in plasma]. AB - The changes in (a-ET) PCO2, concentration of acetazolamide and inhibition rate of carbonic anhydrase in blood were measured for 3 hours after administration of acetazolamide to anesthetized dogs, in order to find whether the changes in (a ET) PCO2 was in response to the concentration of acetazolamide in red cells or plasma. 1. The increase in (a-ET) PCO2 was stable for 3 hours after administration of acetazolamide (5-30 mg/kg). 2. According to the concentration of acetazolamide measured by HPLC, the concentration in erythrocytes increased quickly but decreased more slowly than in plasma. The concentration of acetazolamide in erythrocytes became higher than in plasma after 3 hours. 3. The change in the inhibition rate of CA activity in red cells and in plasma paralleled to the concentration of acetazolamide in red cells and in plasma. 4. (a-ET) PCO2 levels could be raised by low CA activity inhibited by acetazolamide in red cells, not in plasma. 5. Remaining in higher concentration of acetazolamide in erythrocytes might be occurred by the reason that acetazolamide combines with protein, especially CA, in erythrocytes to be unable to pass through the erythrocytes membrane smoothly. PMID- 2515567 TI - [Effects of nitroglycerin on the graft flow during aortocoronary bypass surgery]. AB - The effects of an intravenous infusion of nitroglycerin on the hemodynamics and bypass graft flow to left coronary artery were studied in sixteen patients during coronary artery surgery. Systolic blood pressure, cardiac output and left ventricular minute work were not affected by 0.2 microgram/kg/min of nitroglycerin but graft flow volume especially diastolic graft flow increased significantly and the characteristics of flow velocity waveform in the graft became more diastolic predominant. By 1 microgram/kg/min of nitroglycerin a significant decrease in systolic blood pressure, cardiac output and graft flow were recognized, however diastolic graft flow was preserved despite of a decrease in left ventricular minute work. These findings demonstrate that nitroglycerin can be safely administered intravenously during aortocoronary bypass surgery, and suggest that nitroglycerin improves the balance of myocardial oxygen demand and supply, and relieves myocardial ischemia. PMID- 2515568 TI - Regional variability in the response of collateral resistance to histamine in the dog: effects of cyclooxygenase inhibition. AB - The aim of the study was to examine the role of cyclooxygenase metabolites in determining the variability in histamine responsiveness of the collateral channels of different lung segments of the dog. Using the wedged bronchoscope technique we measured the change in collateral resistance (Rcoll) to aerosolized histamine in two different lung segments of 5 anaesthetized, paralyzed, intubated, mongrel dogs. The same lung segments were examined twice under baseline conditions, and twice after indomethacin (INDO) pretreatment. Rcoll measurements were obtained under control conditions, after saline aerosol, and then after increasing concentrations of histamine (range 0.1 microgram/ml-10.0 mg/ml) were ultrasonically nebulized into the wedged segment. The concentration of histamine that elicited a 50% increase in Rcoll was calculated by log linear interpolation. In addition we performed bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) in the wedged segment at the completion of the concentration-response curves, and assayed the BAL fluid for TXB2, PGE2, and 6-oxo-PGF1 alpha. The geometric mean ratio of histamine responsiveness between lung segments of each animal was 42.5 fold under control conditions and fell to 9.1-fold after INDO (P less than 0.05). While the concentration of TXB2 fell in the BAL after INDO, concentrations of PGE2 and 6-oxo-PGF1 alpha did not. Moreover, there was no correlation between levels of prostanoids and either responsiveness or variability in responsiveness of the collateral channels. Hence while cyclooxygenase blockade altered the regional variability in histamine responsiveness in the collateral channels, this change was not reflected in the levels of prostanoids in the BAL fluid. PMID- 2515569 TI - Temperature effects on pulmonary receptor responses to airway pressure and CO2 in Alligator mississippiensis. AB - The effects of body temperature (Tb) on pulmonary stretch receptor (PSR) and CO2 sensitive intrapulmonary chemoreceptor (IPC) response characteristics may have important effects on ventilatory control in reptiles. In this study, three questions were addressed: (1) what are the effects of Tb on PSR and IPC responses to airway pressure (Paw) and lung CO2 (PCO2); (2) what are the effects of acute (less than 12 h) vs chronic (greater than 1 week) changes in Tb on both receptor groups; and (3) can predicted changes in the fractional dissociation of imidazole (alpha im), calculated via independent changes in Tb and PCO2, explain the CO2 sensitivity of either IPC or PSR? Single fiber PSR and IPC responses to Paw, PCO2 and Tb were determined in 11 anesthetized Alligator mississippiensis (pentobarbital; 30 mg/kg), acclimated at 20 degrees C (N = 5) or at 30 degrees C (N = 6). PSR activity increased as Paw increased at both Tb, but PSR activity and sensitivity to Paw were lower at 20 degrees C. The average Q10 was 2.1. Increasing inhaled CO2 from 1 to 7% decreased PSR activity by 27 +/- 6% at 20 degrees C and 18 +/- 5% at 30 degrees C. IPC activity decreased as PCO2 increased at both Tb, but IPC activity and sensitivity were reduced at 20 degrees C. The average Q10 was 3.2. Increasing Paw from 2 to 10 cm H2O had inconsistent effects on IPC activity. There were no differences between the effects of acute or chronic changes in Tb on either PSR or IPC responses. Predicted changes in alpha im could not explain the CO2-sensitivity of either IPC or PSR. We conclude that PSR and IPC adapt rapidly to Tb changes. The larger Q10 of IPC suggests that the relative role of IPC vs PSR in ventilatory control may be greater at elevated body temperatures. PMID- 2515570 TI - Almitrine and the peripheral ventilatory response to CO2 in hyperoxia and hypoxia. AB - The effects of almitrine bismesylate (initial intravenous dose 0.6 mg.kg-1 followed by continuous infusion of 0.4 mg.kg-1.h-1) on the ventilatory response to CO2 during hyperoxia and hypoxia were determined in 6 anaesthetized cats with the use of the dynamic end-tidal CO2 forcing technique. It was found that almitrine almost doubled the peripheral ventilatory sensitivity to CO2 during hyperoxia (mean PETO2 45.6 kPa) and also during mild hypoxia (mean PETO2 8.7 kPa). The apnoeic threshold (B) was in both cases shifted to substantially lower values than those of the control measurements. No significant effects of almitrine were found on the central ventilatory sensitivity to CO2 either during hyperoxia or during hypoxia. It is argued that the decrease of the apnoeic threshold may be due to an inhibitory effect of almitrine on the carotid body dopaminergic activity, and that the increase of the sensitivity to CO2 stems from a "hypoxia mimetic" mechanism. PMID- 2515571 TI - [Prophylactic effect of Misoprostol on gastric lesions induced by aspirin (ASA) in healthy subjects]. AB - Aspirin (ASA) and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), are extensively used for treating rheumatic diseases, inflammatory problems, and pain of different etiologies. However, their use is limited by the damage they may produce to the gastroduodenal mucosa. The purpose of this double-blind, multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled study was to assess and corroborate the protective effect of misoprostol on the gastric mucosa against ASA injury. Following endoscopic screening, 60 healthy male and female subjects were assigned, at random, to one of two treatment groups. One group was treated with ASA (3.0 g/day, in three divided doses) and misoprostol (600 mcg/day, co administered with ASA); the other with ASA and placebo. After six days of treatment, endoscopy was repeated and the gastric mucosa was graded on a 5 point endoscopic score. Protection was defined as mucosa having an endoscopic score of 2 or less (10 or fewer hemorrhages or erosions). Misoprostol produced a significant (p = 0.005) and profound protection of the gastric mucosa against ASA injury and was well tolerated. These results suggest that misoprostol should have significant therapeutic utility in the treatment and prevention of gastropathy due to NSAIDs. PMID- 2515572 TI - [Gastro-entero-pancreatic hormones in patients with chronic Chagas' disease]. AB - The seric levels of gastrin, pancreatic glucagon, pancreatic polypeptide, enteroglucagon, motilin and cholecistokinin were evaluated in ten patients with chronic Chagas' disease and compared with those observed in nine normal control subjects. The seric values of all the hormones were determined on basal stimulation, after continuous intravenous secretin infusion and infusion of stepwise increased concentrations of caerulein (direct stimulation), and after intravenous secretin administration followed by intraduodenal instilation of increased concentrations of phenylalanina (combined stimulation). All the hormones, basal and after direct stimulation, showed similar values, except gastrin that in the chagasic group presented higher levels than in control subjects. Phenylalanine and pancreatic polypeptide showed significantly higher values in the control group than in the one of patients with Chagas' disease. The hormonal response in patients with chronic Chagas' disease suggested a neural impairment of the enteropancreatic axis. PMID- 2515573 TI - [The management of acute pancreatitis in pregnancy--the coadjuvant role of parenteral feeding]. AB - Acute pancreatitis in pregnancy is not a frequent condition: only a few hundred cases have been published in the literature. Its diagnosis can be misguided by clinical manifestations of the pregnancy itself, and by the delay in ordering the required diagnostic tests. These facts may contribute to the serious prognosis of this disease, which in the past had a mortality of up to 20%. The treatment recommended is conservative. A surgical intervention in the event of biliary lithiasis is best to be postponed till after delivery. Parenteral alimentation can be helpful because of its effects in the promotion of pancreatic rest with simultaneous improvement of the nutritional conditions of the mother and the fetus. PMID- 2515574 TI - [Body composition changes in cancer: an experimental study]. AB - With the aim to study body composition changes in tumor bearing rats submitted to different nutritional conditions, Wistar rats were separated in three diet groups: regular chow, aproteic diet and regular chow after three weeks of aproteic diet. Afterwards the animals were divided in two subgroups: Waler 256 carcinossarcoma bearing rats and tumor free controls. After the sacrifice body composition measurements by the carcass analysis method were performed. Tumor bearing rats presented significant waste of total body fat, body cell mass and increase of Na/K ratio without relation to the nutritional regimen. From this data we conclude that Walker 256 carcinosarcoma causes protein caloric malnutrition even in already depleted rats. After adequate refeeding, body composition rebuilding was obtained in tumor bearing malnourished rats. PMID- 2515576 TI - [Perforated duodenal diverticulum: a report of 2 cases]. AB - Two cases of perforated duodenal diverticulum, treated at the surgical Emergency Service of the Hospital das Clinicas of the University of Sao Paulo Medical School are reported. Although duodenal diverticula are frequent their perforation in is a rare and dougerous complication. Diagnosis and surgical treatment are discussed. We believe that excision, primary suture with an omental patch and drainage are procedures of choice for the treatment of this complication. PMID- 2515575 TI - [Treatment of Schistosomiasis mansoni with a combination oxamniquine and praziquantel. II. Experimental observations during the patent phase]. AB - The efficacy of an association of oxamniquine and praziquantel in the patent phase of experimental schistosomiasis was studied. The mice were infected and divided in four groups in accordance to the following schedules with the use of single oral doses: I--Oxaminiquine (50 mg/kg); II--praziquantel (75 mg/kg); III- association of oxamniquine (50 mg/kg) and praziquantel (75 mg/kg); and IV--no drug. Efficacy was assessed by the oogram technique, studying and classifying the evolution of the output of eggs in fragments of the small intestine, and also by recovery of the worms by portal vein perfusion. In the animals of groups I and II, the drugs had a partial effect while in the group III sinergism was evident. PMID- 2515578 TI - Modification of the FAST-ELISA for field diagnosis of schistosomiasis mansoni with serum or blood samples. AB - Using well-characterized serum pools from patients (with schistosomiasis mansoni), we modified the FAST-ELISA system for detecting serum antibodies to Schistosoma mansoni for field use. We found little or no change in test function or results when the test was run 1) with blood instead of serum, 2) after addition of sodium azide preservation to diluted and lysed blood specimens, 3) using impure water in wash steps, and 4) without a spectrophotometer (i.e., read with the naked eye). Our evaluation of the modified FAST-ELISA showed that it can be successfully used under the restraints of minimally equipped field laboratories. PMID- 2515577 TI - [Indirect immunofluorescence in endemic pemphigus foliaceus. A contribution to its standardization]. AB - The aim of the present research was to standardize the indirect immunofluorescence reaction for Endemic Pemphigus Foliaceus (Fogo Selvagem). We found that fresh human skin was the ideal substrate and could proceed from foreskin, head, neck, or anterior abdominal wall. PBS pre-washing of the skin preceding the incubation with the serum should be avoided since the antigenicity might be diminished. TAS-calcium pre-serves the Pemphigus antigenic properties of the skin and shall be preferred as the diluent for the sera. Albumin-coated slides are useful because they increase the adherence of the skin sections. The conjugate appropriate dilution is convenientely determined by the radial immunodiffusion test (Ouchterlony method). So far as the correlation between the antibody titer and the clinical activity is concerned, we concluded that a titer of 160 or more was of bad prognosis, since it was associated with the generalized form of the disease or with cases of the localized form refractory to the usual therapy. Nevertheless, this assumption needs confirmation by further studies involving an appropriate clinical approach. PMID- 2515579 TI - Efficacy of a new Hoffmann-La Roche compound (Ro 15-5458) against Schistosoma mansoni (Gezira strain, Sudan) in vervet monkeys (Cercopithecus aethiops). AB - Some compounds of the class 9-acridanone-hydrazones have recently been developed by Hoffmann-La Roche (Basel-Switzerland) and were shown to have antischistosomal effects. One of these compounds (RO 15-5458/000) was administered at two dose levels (25 mg and 15 mg/kg body-weight) to S. mansoni (Gezira strain-Sudan) infected vervet monkeys. The faecal egg-output was terminated, worm-burden killed and tissue egg-counts were greatly reduced as compared with the untreated control monkey. Severe necrotic changes were seen around dead worms in sections from treated animals' livers. The efficacy of this compound as an antischistosomal is encouraging and deserves further studying. PMID- 2515580 TI - [Management of hemophilia]. AB - Progress for the care of severe haemophilia patients were major in the last 20 years (Factor VIII and IX concentrates, on demand home treatment, prophylactic treatment, comprehensive haemophilia centers) allowing a quite normal life up to the contamination by HIV of 50 p. 100 of french haemophiliacs. PMID- 2515581 TI - [Hemophilia and acquired immunodeficiency]. AB - French hemophiliacs have been infected with HIV between 1980 and 1985 initially by american Factor VIII concentrates and later by french Factor VIII and IX concentrates. Viral inactivation methods applied to these plasma derivatives appear to have interrupted infection the rate of which is currently about 50 p. 100. An increasing number of these individuals develop clinical complications related to immunodeficiency and AIDS. Biological tests are available to indicate the intensity of viral replication causing clinical symptoms, and these could be used to initiate an early anti-viral therapy. A major educational effort should be undertaken to limit the HIV infection spread among female sex partners of hemophiliacs. PMID- 2515582 TI - [von Willebrand disease]. AB - Von Willebrand disease (vWD) is a frequent congenital bleeding disorder with an autosomal, usually dominant, mode of inheritance. Its clinical expression and mechanism (quantitative or qualitative abnormality of von Willebrand Factor) are extremely heterogeneous. The bleeding symptoms vary in intensity from one patient to the other (including in the same family) and also with time in a given patient. The role of vWF in platelet adhesion to the subendothelium and as a carrier of Factor VIII explains the prolongation of the bleeding time and of the APTT in the typical forms of vWD. These tests, however, may be only slightly abnormal or even normal in the numerous mild forms of the disease which are often diagnosed because of bleeding complications following surgery or delivery. The specific tests (assay of vWF antigen, assay of ristocetin-cofactor activity, assay of Factor VIII activity) usually lead to the diagnosis. The latter remains uncertain, however, in some cases where results are at the lower limit of normal. Once the diagnosis is established, highly specialized methods are required to determine the type of vWD. The therapy of vWD relies on the use of either virus inactivated plasma concentrates or DDAVP. PMID- 2515583 TI - Interferon efficiency in the treatment of herpetic dermatites. II. Comparison between human leukocyte interferon (Ginterferon) and a recombinant interferon (Roferon). AB - The comparative efficiency of a recombinant interferon-Roferon (R-IFN) and a human, naturally synthetized interferon-Ginterferon (G-IFN), applied as ointments in the treatment of herpetic dermatites, was studied in a blind trial. It was found that R-IFN in doses of 20,000 IU/g has practically similar results as G-IFN in doses of 10,000 IU/g therefore half the dose of the former product. Thus both preparations reduced significantly the mean duration of a herpetic dermatitis attack and both proved more efficient on smaller lesions (less than 2 sq.cm) than on larger ones (over 2 sq.cm). Likewise with both preparations the reduction of the healing period was more marked when administered in the first 2-3 days after onset. It was also found that the arrest of new vesicle appearance after two days of treatment is a reliable clinical criterion for the estimation of IFN capacity to block effectively viral multiplication in the host's epithelial cells. Finally the efficacy of both R-IFN and G-IFN proved similar whatever the localization of disease (oral or genital) or in their capacity to prevent relapses or the appearance of bacterial complications. PMID- 2515584 TI - [Phenolic coefficient in the microbiological evaluation of disinfectants for hospital and household use]. AB - The phenolic coefficient of 24 disinfectants (six for hospital and the remainder for household use) commercialized in S. Paulo were verified. The active compounds found were phenol, quaternary ammonium, formaldehyde, ethanol and chlorine, some of them in association. The microorganisms used were Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 15442 and Salmonella choleraesuis ATCC 10708. The values of the phenolic coefficient ranged from 58.3 to 0.1. The hospital disinfectants showed values greater than those of the disinfectants for household use, though these differences do not necessarily indicate the quality of the respective products. Conversely the microbiological method adopted showed that some products for household use had low or inexistent antibacterial activity because the phenolic coefficient could not be determined for the dilutions used for this evaluation. PMID- 2515586 TI - [Distribution of Biomphalaria tenagophila and B. occidentalis in the State of Sao Paulo (Brazil)]. AB - The geographical distribution of Biomphalaria tenagophila (d'Orbigny, 1835) and B. occidentalis Paraense, 1981 in S. Paulo State, Brazil, is described. The first species being the most important intermediate host of Schistosoma mansoni Sambon, 1907. The second species is unsusceptible to transmission. The two species inhabit the limnic environments of great areas of S. Paulo, occasionally in simpatria. The 3,160 samples of mollusks collected between September 1981 and March 1986 were examined. B. tenagophila were identified in 1,062 of these samples from 203 municipalities and B. occidentalis in 255 samples from 97 municipalities. Biogeographical circumstances related to the distribution of the planorbids species are commented on. PMID- 2515585 TI - [Assessment of the impact of nutritional rehabilitation programs on preschool children: test of a methodology]. AB - Two different approaches to the evaluation of the impact of food supplementation given to malnourished children are assessed on the basis of the experience of a program undertaken in the county of Diadema, in the metropolitan area of S. Paulo, Brazil. The first approach--a traditional one--is based on the proportion of children that at the end of one year's participation in the program present no weight deficit (weight for age more than 90% of the expected value). The second approach--proposed in the article--takes into account only the rate of growth and accepts weight increments superior to those expected among well-nourished children as favorable. The advantages of this second approach are fully demonstrated. PMID- 2515587 TI - Screening of kidney function by plasma creatinine and single-sample 51Cr-EDTA clearance determination--a comparison. AB - Nomograms or simple formulas have been suggested for estimating the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) from either plasma creatinine (ClK) or from a single plasma sample drawn after an intravenous injection of 51Cr-EDTA (ClA/B). This study compares the precision of estimating GFR as ClK and ClA/B. A multiple plasma sample standard method (ClSM) served as reference. The comparison was performed in 136 individuals. The variance of ClA/B on ClSM was 14.4 ml/min/1.73 m2 while the variance of ClK on ClSM was 204.5 ml/min/1.73 m2. It is concluded that the ClA/B values are more precise than the ClK values (p less than 0.01). The single sample method for determination of 51Cr-EDTA clearance seems well-suited for evaluation and monitoring of patients with known or suspected kidney diseases. It may even be applied for screening purposes in cases where plasma creatinine would otherwise have been chosen instead of the usual resource-demanding method for determination of ClSM. PMID- 2515588 TI - Determination of 51Cr-EDTA clearance between 15 and 40 ml/min/1.73 m2 by a single plasma sample. AB - A single-sample method for calculation of 51Cr-EDTA clearance (Cl) between 15 and 40 ml/min/1.73 m2 (ClB) is introduced. It was tested in 109 consecutive patients and compared with a previously published single-sample method for calculation of Cl for Cl greater than or equal to 30 ml/min/1.73 m2 (ClA). When Cl less than 40 ml/min/1.73 m2 the results were more precise when calculated as ClB than when calculated as ClA (p greater than or equal to 0.05). The ClA values were more precise than the ClB values when Cl was greater than or equal to 40 ml/min/1.73 m2 (p less than 0.01). Used in combination (ClA/B) there was a close correlation with Cl (r = 0.98) for the whole range of tested clearance values. It is concluded that Cl can be precisely determined by combined use of the two methods, provided Cl greater than 15 ml/min/1.73 m2 and the single blood-sample is drawn between 240 and 300 min after the injection. If ClA/B less than or equal to 15 ml/min/1.73 m2 it is recommended that a second blood-sample be drawn after 24 h and that Cl is calculated by a conventional slope method. PMID- 2515589 TI - Effect of disinfecting solutions on accuracy of alginate and elastomeric impressions. AB - The effect of immersion in six disinfecting solutions on the accuracy of 10 impression materials was investigated. Impressions were taken of a truncated steel cone. After setting, the impressions were either stored at room temperature for 24 h, for control, or immediately immersed in a disinfecting agent for 60 min (in one case 10 min), and after 24 h poured with gypsum. A steel ring fitting the steel cone was placed on the resulting dies, and the discrepancy between the top surface of the ring and the die was measured. From these measurements the deviation between the base diameter of the die and of the impression was calculated to express the inaccuracy. All impressions except some in Blueprint exhibited a net shrinkage, giving rise to too large die stones and incomplete seating of the steel ring. Blueprint impressions, however, occasionally swelled and resulted in too small die stones and "overseating" of the steel ring. The disinfecting solutions had no significant impact on two impression materials. For the remaining eight materials the accuracy was decreased, increased, or unaffected by the immersion. Generally, the accuracy of the alginates investigated were more affected by the disinfecting solutions than were the elastomeric impression materials. The accuracy of the three alginates was drastically impaired by immersion in 70% ethanol, whereas the remaining five disinfecting solutions had a smaller, though sometimes statistically significant, effect on the accuracy. For the elastomeric materials only a few specific combinations of impression material and disinfecting solution reduced the accuracy.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515590 TI - Aluminum oxalate/glycine solutions as pretreatment in the Gluma bonding system. AB - Dentin and enamel surfaces were treated with solutions of aluminum oxalate (AO), the pH of which was adjusted by glycine. Gluma as well as an enamel bonding agent were applied to the surfaces before the placement of a composite resin. On shear bond testing, there was obtained a strong adhesion that was influenced by the pH of the AO solutions. Dentin and enamel specimens for examination by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were also prepared and treated as above. Enamel specimens showed a very definite etching pattern, and on the dentin surfaces a precipitate was observed. The amount of this product seemed to decrease as the pH increased. PMID- 2515591 TI - The effect of prostacyclin and its analogues on cysteamine-induced duodenal ulceration of rats. AB - The effect of prostacyclin and its analogues, -6-keto-prostaglandin-F1 alpha and 6-beta-prostaglandin-I1, on cysteamine induced duodenal ulceration of rats has been investigated. It seems that neither prostacyclin nor its analogues have antiulcerogenic effect in this model. PMID- 2515592 TI - Endotoxin release from neisseria meningitidis. Relationship between key bacterial characteristics and meningococcal disease. AB - A method was established in order to measure total and filtrable (CF) endotoxin in cultures of Neisseria meningitidis strains. The Limulus lysate (LAL) test gave results which paralleled those of the standard rabbit pyrogen test and of gas chromatography (GLC), concerning detection of different CF endotoxin levels. Meningococci varied in their ability to produce CF endotoxin. Cultures of similar bacterial densities, whether with a high (E+) or a low (E-) release of endotoxin in CF, had both high yields of endotoxin in sonicated culture suspensions determined by the LAL test. GLC demonstrated only small differences in total LPS contents between E+ and E- strains. This suggests that strains with similar cell wall endotoxin contents may vary in CF endotoxin. Electron microscopy revealed that E+ strains presented a high number of free, outer cell wall fragments (blebs, tubuli, membranes and aggregates of such structures) in surroundings. Few such free, small structures were found around E- strains. The amount of CF endotoxin of E+ strains was in part a function of the number of colony forming units (CFU/ml), and generally followed the growth curve. Because of its moment of appearance, and also based on electron microscopy findings, CF endotoxin appeared mainly to be released from living bacteria. The CF level of endotoxin was low or not detected at all in cultures of E- strains although their cultures reached higher mean CFU-levels than the niveaus required for the detection of CF endotoxin in the E+ strains. The E+ property was strain dependent. Meningococci isolated from CSF or blood had a significantly higher proportion of E+ strains (88.2%) and a higher CF endotoxin titre (greater than or equal to 10(3); 34.5%), than isolates from carriers (32.3% and 10.8%, respectively) (p less than 0.001 and p less than 0.001, respectively). A high mean CFU/ml in cultures seemed to be more often associated with isolates from patients than from carriers, more often with the presence than abscence of capsular polysaccharide (p less than 0.05), and more often with the presence than absence of the E+ property (p = 0.002). E+ strains were mostly serogroupable (i.e. encapsulated), regardless of source of the isolate (99% case and 80% carrier isolates). In contrast, serogroupable bacteria were not necessarily E+ when isolated from carriers (54.8%). The serogroup most apt to cause disease tended to have the highest proportion of E+ strains and the highest level of CF endotoxin.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2515593 TI - Sucralfate for prevention of naproxen-induced mucosal lesions in the proximal and distal gastrointestinal tract. AB - To study the protective effect of Sucralfate on Naproxen-induced mucosal lesions, 16 healthy, male volunteers were given Naproxen 500 mg b.i.d. together with Sucralfate 2 g b.i.d. or placebo in a double-blind, crossover study. Drug periods were 1 week, with a 3-week wash out in between. Mucosal lesions in stomach and duodenum were assessed by upper endoscopy before and after each drug period, using a visual analogue with separate scoring of mid- and distal duodenal lesions. 51Cr-EDTA absorption tests were performed to demonstrate possible changes in distal gut permeability. In addition, subjective symptoms were registered. Both drug periods induced significant lesions in the stomach and duodenum. Statistically speaking, fewer changes were found in the stomach and duodenal bulb after Sucralfate co-administration, whereas no significant reduction of lesions was seen in the distal duodenum. The 51Cr-EDTA absorption was increased in both periods, indicating deleterious effects to distal parts of the gut, but our results did not demonstrate Sucralfate-mediated protection from these changes. Symptoms were modest, and equal in the two periods. We conclude that Sucralfate may offer protection in the gastric and proximal duodenal mucosa, but no such protective effect was seen distally to the duodenal bulb. PMID- 2515594 TI - Cimetidine tablets or suspension for the prevention of gastrointestinal mucosal lesions caused by non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs. AB - We compared the protection offered by cimetidine 400 mg b.i.d. as tablets or suspension vs. placebo, in Naproxen-induced gastrointestinal damage in 17 healthy males. Upper endoscopy was performed before and after each drug period, with separate evaluation of duodenal mucosa distal to the duodenal bulb. 51Cr-EDTA absorption tests were done to assess distal mucosal integrity, and symptoms were registered. All regimens caused a significant increase in mucosal damage (p less than 0.01). Cimetidine tablets gave a significantly lower damage score than placebo for gastritis/duodenitis and hemorrhagic lesions in the stomach/duodenal bulb, and for the sum of scores in both scoring regions (p = 0.02). Cimetidine suspension was not significantly different from placebo for any of the endoscopic parameters. The 51Cr-EDTA absorption was significantly increased after all drug periods. However, there was no difference between the three drug combinations. Symptoms reported were mild and equal in the three groups. Cimetidine tablets offered protection against Naproxen-induced mucosal damage, primarily in the stomach and duodenal bulb, but lacked any effect on permeability changes. Cimetidine suspension was not significantly different from placebo in any respect. PMID- 2515596 TI - Necrotising enterocolitis in the newborn infant. PMID- 2515595 TI - B-cell growth-promoting activity in supernatants from CD4+ cells from synovial fluid and peripheral blood of patients with rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory arthritides. AB - The purpose of this study was to compare CD4+ cells from peripheral blood (PB) and synovial fluid (SF) of patients with rheumatoid arthritis with regard to mitogen-induced production of B-cell growth-promoting activity. CD4+ cells were isolated by a direct immunomagnetic technique and supernatants from both unstimulated and mitogen-stimulated CD4+ cells were studied. B-cell growth promoting activity was assayed using highly purified B cells obtained from peripheral blood of healthy individuals. The indicator B cells were isolated by an indirect immunomagnetic technique and solid-phase anti-mu was used for activation of the B cells. Supernatants of unstimulated CD4+ cells from SF and PB did not contain B-cell growth-promoting activity, while usually high levels of B cell growth-promoting activity were detected in the supernatants from mitogen stimulated cultures. There was no significant difference in the B-cell growth promoting activity level between supernatants from SF CD4+ and patient PB CD4+ cells, nor was there any significant difference between SF CD4+ and control PB CD4+ supernatants. The results indicate that the CD4+ cells in the SF have a normal potential for producing B-cell growth-promoting activity. PMID- 2515597 TI - [Magnetotherapy of arrhythmia]. PMID- 2515599 TI - Ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament and thoracic myelopathy in a short-limbed dwarf. PMID- 2515598 TI - [Nitroglycerin test in the nitrong treatment of patients with ischemic heart disease and chronic obstructive bronchitis]. PMID- 2515600 TI - [Radiotherapy in patients orchiectomized for seminoma. Observations on 46 cases]. AB - The results of high energy radiotherapy in patients who had been orchiectomized for testicular seminoma are reported. The treatment includes irradiation of cruro inguinal lymph gland, lumbo-aortic and left subclavian stations and produced extremely positive results (no recurrences or secondary metastasis) in almost all cases treated. The cases were controlled serially over time with an average follow-up of 5 years. The treatment did not give rise to side-effects or changes in blood clotting. PMID- 2515601 TI - [Pathogenesis of peripheral cytopenias in hemophiliac patients]. AB - The frequent occurrence of peripheral cytopenias is a common clinical fact in patients with HIV-1 infection, and its pathogenetic mechanism is not clear, although several hypotheses have been proposed. Such cytopenias are frequently observed in haemophilic patients, in whom the immunologic alteration induced by continuous antigenic stimulants derived from plasma concentrate therapy has been postulated as an additional causative factor. One-hundred and forty five haemophiliacs treated with commercial antihaemophilic concentrates were studied. The patients were divided into three therapeutic groups according to the mean number of units of therapeutic factor VIII administered per Kg every year in the four years prior to the study (group I: less than 500 U; group II: between 501 and 1500 U; group III: more than 1500 U). The occurrence of cytopenias in the patients was co-ordinated with the presence or absence of HIV infection and the therapeutic group. The statistical studies showed clear correlation between peripheral cytopenias and presence of anti-HIV markers, regardless of the amount of concentrates perceived (except for the total neutrophil count). PMID- 2515602 TI - Prediction of microbial aetiology at admission to hospital for pneumonia from the presenting clinical features. British Thoracic Society Pneumonia Research Subcommittee. AB - The selection of initial antimicrobial treatment in a patient with community acquired pneumonia is an important clinical decision. Because this decision is usually made before the results of specific microbiological tests are available, we attempted to determine how well the presenting clinical features would allow prediction of microbial aetiology in 441 adults admitted to hospital with pneumonia. Five of 90 variable available on admission were selected for inclusion in a multivariate discriminant function analysis because of their strong association with one or more of the major aetiological subsets (Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, "other," and undetermined). These variables were age, number of days ill before admission, presence or absence of bloody sputum and of lobar infiltration on chest radiograph, and white blood cell count. The microbial aetiology was correctly predicted by this discriminant function analysis in only 42% of cases, which gives a quantitative estimate of the degree of difficulty encountered in determining the microbial aetiology at the time of admission for pneumonia. When a similar discriminant function analysis was applied to the third of patients in whom the microbial aetiology was never determined, most of these cases were predicted to be due to Streptococcus pneumoniae. PMID- 2515604 TI - Elimination of native and carbohydrate-modified tissue plasminogen activator in rabbits. AB - The elimination of native and carbohydrate-modified tissue type plasminogen activator (t-PA) after an i.v. bolus injection was studied in rabbits. t-PA with a low content of mannose (man-t-PA) was obtained by treatment with alpha mannosidase, which cleaves terminal mannose from the carbohydrate side chains of the molecule. About 50% of the total mannose was removed from the native t-PA. Clearance of t-PA in rabbits was followed by measurements of both the fibrinolytic activity of the activators and the radioactivity of the iodine labelled compounds. A biphasic mode of elimination of the fibrinolytic activity as well as the radioactivity was found with both the native and the carbohydrate modified t-PA. The initial half-life (t 1/2 alpha) was the same, about 1.5 minutes, for both compounds, irrespective of method of analysis. The late half life (t 1/2 beta) was also the same, about 15 minutes, for both compounds. However, the beta-elimination of native t-PA could only be determined accurately from radioactivity data in the dosages tested, i.e. up to 2 mg of t-PA. No dose dependency in the elimination pattern was observed. In gel filtration experiments, with plasma from the rabbits, it was demonstrated that in addition to fibrinolytically active t-PA and man-t-PA, both fibrinolytically inactive high molecular weight complexes and low molecular weight degradation products of the activators were present in plasma after injection of the compounds. The second phase of elimination (beta) was much more pronounced after mannosidase treatment of the t-PA.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515603 TI - Effect of retraction on the lysis of human clots with fibrin specific and non fibrin specific plasminogen activators. AB - The effect of the serum content of human clots on their sensitivity to lysis with plasminogen activators was studied in a system composed of 125I-fibrin labeled clots immersed in buffer or in citrated plasma. The effect was studied with plasma clots before or after mechanical compression and with whole blood clots before or after retraction, using either the fibrin specific plasminogen activators recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator (rt-PA) or recombinant single chain urokinase-type plasminogen activator (rscu-PA), and the non-fibrin specific activators recombinant two chain urokinase-type plasminogen activator (rtcu-PA), or streptokinase (SK). In a buffer milieu, all plasminogen activators had a similar fibrinolytic potency towards serum-rich clots (non-compressed plasma clots or non-retracted blood clots): 50% clot lysis in 4 h required 50 to 85 ng plasminogen activator per ml. Serum-poor clots (compressed plasma clots or retracted blood clots) were resistant to lysis in a buffer milieu but became sensitive to lysis following preincubation in plasma for 48 h. These findings indicate that plasma proteins entrapped in clots contribute significantly to their sensitivity to lysis and suggest that the amount of bound or entrapped plasminogen may be a limiting factor. In a plasma milieu, all plasminogen activators lysed serum-rich plasma or blood clots, albeit at higher concentrations (3 to 40 times higher than in the buffer milieu) and with different efficiencies: 50% clot lysis in 4 h required approximately 600 ng/ml of rtcu-PA but 1,500 to 2,000 ng/ml of rscu-PA.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515605 TI - Protein content and factor VIII complex in untreated, treated and monoclonal factor VIII concentrates. AB - Replacement therapy with clotting factor concentrates may expose the recipients not only to virus contamination but also to continuous stimulation of the immune system by repeated infusions of allogenic proteins. Concentrate purity is now a very important prerequisite to be taken into account in choosing what product can better meet the patient's needs. We compared protein content (albumin, fibrinogen, fibronectin, immunoglobulins) and factor VIII:C/vWF:Ag complex in untreated, treated and monoclonal factor VIII concentrates. Protein content is dramatically decreased in new treated ultrapure concentrates. Improved traditional fractionation methods allowed to obtain very high Factor VIII specific activity. New fractionation methods with immunoaffinity chromatography by means of monoclonal antibodies can give highly pure concentrates even if deliberately added albumin decreases factor VIII specific activity in final formulation. Otherwise monoclonal concentrates show a very high specific activity in terms of fibrinogen and immunoglobulin content, which, unlike albumin, are affecting the immune system in hemophiliacs. PMID- 2515606 TI - A direct approach in fibrinolysis diagnostic: mimicry of the leukocyte by attack by oxidants. AB - Activated leukocytes release large amounts of chloramine like oxidizing agents (see Weiss et al. Science 222, 625-628, 1983) which inactivate protease inhibitors, creating microenvironments of uncontrolled protease activity. The biological result is an increased proteo- and fibrino- lysis. Functional determination of tissue type (t-PA) or urinary type (u-PA) plasminogen activator, the key enzymes of fibrinolysis, is of clinical importance. Assay techniques have been developed but are troublesome due to predilution, acidification or separation steps in order to eliminate the PA and plasmin inhibiting effect of plasmatic inhibitors of anti-PA and of anti-plasmin type, respectively. In this study, evidence is presented that performance of fibrinolytic assays using N chloroamines offers great advantage: plasmatic plasminogen activator activity both of urinary and of tissue type can be measured precisely within minutes in untreated (direct) plasma samples. Therefore, mimicking the oxidative inflammatory response, for the first time it gets feasible to analyze blood factors involved in the physiological course of fibrinolysis by means of a functional, sensitive, and rapid assay procedure. PMID- 2515607 TI - Oxidized fibrin(ogen) derivatives enhance the activity of tissue type plasminogen activator. AB - Oxidation of fibrinogen degradation products (FDP) with chloramines, results in a five- fold increase of their property to stimulate plasminogen activation by tissue type plasminogen activator (t-PA). Binding studies with immobilized stimulators demonstrated greater affinity of t-PA to oxidized than to unmodified FDP. The fibrin (ogen) domain responsible for this oxidant mediated increase in t PA stimulation is localized in the D- subunit of fibrin(ogen). Thus, experimental data with (oxidized) I-labelled fibrin(ogen) should be interpreted with caution: the oxidized product might behave in a distinct manner than the unoxidized, native, one. As activated leukocytes release large amounts of oxidants of the chloramine type (Weiss et al., Science 222, 625-628, 1983), oxidation of fibrin might contribute significantly to fibrinolysis and proteolysis in areas of inflammation. The data give further evidence for an involvement of physiological components of haemostasis in non haemostasis but inflammation related processes. PMID- 2515608 TI - Urinary UK, t-PA and urinary trypsin inhibitor in health and glomerular diseases. AB - The concentrations of two different plasminogen activators(PAs), urokinase (UK), tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA) and urinary trypsin inhibitor (UTI) were determined in the urine and blood from 48 normal subjects and 92 patients with glomerulonephritis using highly sensitive enzyme immunoassay (EIA). The values of UK clearance were approximately 1.5-fold larger than those of creatinine clearance and at least 60.8% of UK was reabsorbed in the renal tubules, which suggest that one of major secretion site of UK is located in the outer region of the glomerular basement membrane (GBM), that is glomerular epithelium. Decreased urinary excretion of UK was observed in the glomerular disease depending on their severity and correlated with the increasing degree of FDP D-dimer excretion. On the other hand, the values of t-PA clearance were quite smaller than those of creatinine clearance, which suggest that urinary t-PA originated from the blood circulation or the inner side of the GBM (possibly glomerular endothelium) and filtrated from the GBM. Like UK, urinary t-PA also decreased in glomerular diseases. UTI which is highly anionic and has a comparable size with albumin was excreted increasingly in glomerulo-nephritis due to loss of the anionic charge barrier of the GBM. No significant correlations were noted between UTI excretion and UK or t-PA excretion. PMID- 2515609 TI - Fibrinolytic response to venous occlusion for 10 and 20 minutes in healthy subjects and in patients with deep vein thrombosis. AB - Tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) activity, t-PA antigen (t-PA:Ag) and t-PA inhibitor activity (PAI) were measured at rest and during venous occlusion (VO) for 10 and 20 min in 21 healthy subjects and 80 patients with venous thromboembolic disease. The expected t-PA release was seen in the controls. However, the release was found to be nonlinear and 63% of the t-PA:Ag was released during the last 10 min of VO. Defective release of t-PA:Ag and/or t-PA activity was found in 25 patients (31%). Three subgroups could be identified: 10 patients (13%) with low t-PA:Ag release (PRI), 6 patients (8%) with a high basal level of PAI (PR II) and 9 patients (11%) who had only low t-PA activity after VO. Using VO for 10 min only, 60%, 83% and 44% of the patients in PR I, PR II and PR III, respectively, were recognized. Using VO for 20 min only, the figures were 80%, 83% and 89%, respectively. The use of t-PA values corrected for the haemoconcentration during VO influenced the patients' classification as poor responders to only a minor degree. It is concluded that in screening for hypofibrinolysis VO is needed for at least 20 min, but that the sensitivity of the test increased by using VO for both 10 and 20 min. PMID- 2515610 TI - Determination of plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI) activity of human plasma after dilution in a PAI-depleted plasma. AB - A simple and discriminating assay for the determination of the fast-acting plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI) activity in human plasma is described. The method is based on the inhibition of purified tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) by plasma diluted with a PAI-depleted plasma and the subsequent measurement of residual tPA in the presence of CNBr-fibrinogen fragments, purified plasminogen and a plasmin sensitive chromogenic substrate CBS 10.65. This assay does not require any acidification step, and allows PAI determination directly on plasma. Since dilutions are made in PAI-depleted plasma, all the serine-protease inhibitors, except PAI, are kept constant in their effect on the assay. Thus, any detectable degree of inhibition can only be ascribed to PAI. Under these conditions, parallel titration curves of tPA are obtained in plasma and the values of PAI are reproducible when measured at different dilutions. The PAI levels of 31 normal volunteers ranged from 0.3 to 8.7 IU/ml (mean: 3.5 IU/ml). After venous occlusion, variations of PAI were associated with the release of tPA. A marked increase of PAI levels was observed in the post-operative period and in pregnancy. In this case both PAI-1 and PAI-2 related activities were measured. Due to its simplicity, the assay can be easily used for the screening of patients with thrombotic diseases. PMID- 2515611 TI - Elucidation of a role of plasma albumin during collagen-induced aggregation of bovine platelets. AB - Bovine platelets of which phospholipids were labeled with [14C] arachidonate were stimulated by collagen. Omitting albumin in suspending medium suppressed aggregation and arachidonate liberation from phospholipids. Analysis of [14C] arachidonate metabolites released into medium revealed that release of 12S hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (12-HETE) from stimulated platelets was dependent on the existence of albumin, while thromboxane B2 release was not. Moreover, exogenously added 12-HETE inhibited collagen-induced aggregation. These observations suggest that albumin potentiates aggregation by preventing intracellular accumulation of 12-HETE, and strengthen our previous finding that albumin in plasma is very essential for collagen-induced aggregation of platelets (Sekiya, F., Takagi, J., Kasahara, K., Inada, Y. and Saito, Y. (1988) Thrombos. Res. 50, 837-846.). PMID- 2515612 TI - Aromatic tetra-amidines with antiproteolytic activity inhibit platelet aggregation and secretion. PMID- 2515614 TI - Intravenous pressure and t-PA antigen release during venous occlusion of upper and lower limbs. PMID- 2515613 TI - Monoclonal antibody enhances plasminogen activation by t-PA. PMID- 2515615 TI - The effect of venous occlusion on the PAI and antiplasmins release from platelets. PMID- 2515616 TI - [Anti-hepatitis C (HCV) ELISA. A serologic test for non-A non-B hepatitis (NANBH) after blood transfusion]. PMID- 2515617 TI - [Enteral feeding in premature infants: is vitamin supplement necessary? Work Group (Par)enteral Feeding of the Perinatology Section of the Netherlands Pediatric Society]. PMID- 2515618 TI - The Internal Revenue Service view of health care incentive compensation. PMID- 2515619 TI - Effects of Clostridium difficile toxins A and B on cytoskeleton organization in HEp-2 cells: a comparative morphological study. AB - A comparative study on the effects of toxin A and toxin B from Clostridium difficile on HEp-2 cells was carried out. Both toxins caused cell retraction and rounding and seemed to exert their effect on cell morphology via a rearrangement of actin and alpha-actinin microfilaments. Such a rearrangement occurred at an early stage, when no change in microtubular and cytokeratin systems was detectable. Nevertheless, several structural modifications accompanying the cytopathological process induced by toxins A and B appeared to be quite different. In particular, toxin B-treated cells showed an arborized phenotype as a result of cell retraction and rounding, whereas toxin A caused cell rounding without arborization. Moreover, nuclear polarization following disorganization of the microfilament system was only observed in toxin A-treated cells. The structural features distinguishing intoxication processes induced by the two toxins probably reflect a different mechanism of action and suggest the presence of a distinct subcellular component as a primary target for each toxin. PMID- 2515620 TI - The effect of reduced oxygen tension on progesterone accumulation in rat granulosa cell cultures. AB - Studies were carried out on the effect of oxygen tension on progesterone (P) accumulation in rat granulosa cell cultures. At 1-2% oxygen, basal, luteinizing hormone (LH)-stimulated, and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH)-stimulated P accumulations were 20, 18, and 11%, respectively, of P levels at 20% oxygen. Basal P accumulation was also inhibited at 5% oxygen, but LH- and FSH-stimulated P levels were 50% and 40% higher, respectively, than at 20% oxygen. P levels at 10% oxygen were intermediate between those at 5% and 20% oxygen. The inhibitory effect of 1-2% oxygen on P accumulation was reversible: LH-stimulated P accumulation was inhibited in cultures incubated in 1-2% oxygen for 24 h, but rebounded during a subsequent 24 h period in 20% oxygen to the same level as that in cultures maintained continuously in 20% oxygen. We conclude that oxygen tension does influence granulosa cell steroidogenesis in vitro. Changes in blood flow and oxygen delivery to the ovary before and after ovulation could, therefore, effect the pattern of steroidogenesis during this period. PMID- 2515621 TI - Control of lymphoepithelial interactions within thymic nurse cells by gamma interferon and tumor necrosis factor alpha. Possible role in the modulation of intrathymic education? AB - The role of cytokines in the process of intrathymic differentiation is not yet clearly established. The results presented in this paper demonstrate that interferon-gamma and tumor necrosis factor-alpha regulate 'in vivo' and 'in vitro' the interactions between epithelial cells and thymocytes within thymic nurse cells. The mechanism of action of these cytokines and their possible physiologic role 'in vivo' are discussed. PMID- 2515622 TI - The association of steroids and schistosomicides in the treatment of experimental schistosomiasis. AB - The best therapeutic approach to acute schistosomiasis (Katayama fever) is still unsettled. In this paper we report a synergistic effect between schistosomicides and steroids in the treatment of the early stages of Schistosoma mansoni infection in the mouse. CBA mice infected with 150 S. mansoni cercariae were treated with oxamniquine or praziquantel and dexamethasone or prednisolone. The rate of parasite egg excretion by treated mice and appropriate controls was monitored, and the mice were perfused 43 d after infection for estimation of worm burdens and tissue egg densities. Mice treated with schistosomicides alone or with schistosomicides plus steroids had worm burdens of similar size. Significant reductions in egg counts were, however, recorded in faeces, and in the intestines and livers (with consequent reduction in liver pathology), of mice treated with schistosomicide and steroid, when compared to mice treated with schistosomicide alone or steroid alone. The apparent inhibition of fecundity of S. mansoni by combining these drugs has clear implications for treatment of the Katayama syndrome. PMID- 2515623 TI - Schistosoma mansoni: the therapeutic efficacy of oxamniquine is enhanced by immune serum. PMID- 2515624 TI - Recognition of gut-associated antigens by immunoglobulin M in the indirect fluorescent antibody test for schistosomiasis mansoni. AB - The specific reactivity of immunoglobulin M antibodies, as measured by a commonly used immunodiagnostic technique for schistosomiasis mansoni, the immunofluorescence assay (IFA) on Rossman-fixed sections of adult worms, was analyzed with monoclonal antibodies. Using monoclonal antibodies directed against 3 major gut-associated antigens, circulating anodic antigen (CAA), circulating cathodic antigen (CCA) and the 32 kDa antigen in blocking experiments, it was demonstrated that the measured IFA reaction was primarily due to reactivity with CCA. After blocking with anti-CCA monoclonal antibody, a mean decrease of fluorescent antibody titres of 95.8%, 92.9% and 83.8% was observed for sera from groups of patients with a recent infection (0-6 months), a static infection (6 months - 5 years), and a chronic infection (over 5 years), respectively. Titres of the group of recently infected patients were, after blocking, significantly lower (P less than 0.05) than those of the group of chronically infected patients. PMID- 2515625 TI - Circulating anodic antigen levels in serum before and after chemotherapy with praziquantel in schistosomiasis mansoni. AB - The kinetics of serum levels of circulating anodic antigen (CAA) of Schistosoma mansoni were studied in patients with intestinal schistosomiasis before and after treatment with praziquantel. Day to day fluctuation in faecal egg excretion was compared with fluctuation in antigen level in 20 patients by serum and stool examination on 3 consecutive days before treatment. Antigen levels - calculated either as absorbance value of undiluted serum or as titre - showed less fluctuation than the number of eggs per gram of faeces determined by stool examinations based on single or duplicate 25 mg Kato smears. Compared with a placebo control group of 11 individuals, there was a significant reduction in CAA level in serum of 10 patients treated with praziquantel (40 mg/kg), 10 weeks after treatment. A similar decrease in serum CAA level was observed in a group of 46 patients treated with praziquantel, 6 weeks after treatment. In both groups, patients who remained seropositive after treatment still excreted eggs in their faeces. The kinetics of the antigen decrease were studied in more detail in 20 patients in hospital. Within 10 d after treatment with a double dose of 40 mg praziquantel per kg body weight, the antigen level fell to less than 10% of the original serum level, with a CAA half-life of approximately 2 d. PMID- 2515626 TI - Antibodies to haemorrhagic fever viruses in Madagascar populations. AB - Sera of 381 adult people from 5 areas in Madagascar were tested by the indirect immunofluorescence method for antibodies against Congo-Crimean haemorrhagic fever and Rift Valley fever viruses (Bunyaviridae), Ebola (strains Zaire and Sudan) and Marburg viruses (Filoviridae), and Lassa virus (Arenaviridae). The highest prevalence rate was that of Ebola virus (4.5%). As no haemorrhagic syndrome has been found associated with this virus, the possible presence of a less pathogenic, antigenically related, strain is discussed. The prevalences of Congo Crimean haemorrhagic fever and Rift Valley viruses were very low, despite previous viral isolations from potential vectors. No serum reacted against Lassa or Marburg antigens. The results are analysed in the light of the geographical and bioecological characteristics of Madagascar, which is a true 'microcontinent' very different from the African mainland. PMID- 2515627 TI - Jamaica (J) type diabetes in Ethiopia. PMID- 2515629 TI - Association between Trypanosoma cruzi zymodemes and specific humoral depression in chronic chagasic patients. PMID- 2515628 TI - Seroprevalence of Trypanosoma cruzi infection among unskilled urban workers in central Brazil. AB - A cross-sectional survey of the prevalence of Trypanosoma cruzi infection was carried out among urban unskilled workers in an endemic area in central Brazil as part of a study to assess the health impact of Chagas disease and to identify risk factors for the evolution of cardiopathy. Blood samples from 5425 male and female workers, aged 15-61 years, from 5 public institutions, were screened by indirect immunofluorescence, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and indirect haemagglutination for antibodies to T. cruzi. Seroprevalence varied from 8.8% to 15.6% in the different institutions and increase with age up to 55 years. More stable jobs were associated with lower seroprevalence. Migrants from Sao Paulo and Minas Gerais presented higher prevalence and a relative risk associated with seropositivity in relation to workers from Goias of 2.2 (95% confidence limits, 1.4-3.5) and 1.9 (1.6-2.3), respectively. PMID- 2515630 TI - Pneumocystis carinii is not a major cause of pneumonia in HIV infected patients in Lusaka, Zambia. AB - The clinical occurrence of Pneumocystis carinii and Mycobacterium tuberculosis was investigated in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) who had clinical pneumonia of unknown aetiology in Lusaka, Zambia. The results were compared with a similar group of patients in Stockholm, Sweden. Induced sputum samples were stained for Pneumocystis by indirect immunofluorescence using monoclonal antibody 3F6 and toluidine blue O. Mycobacterial culture and acid fast stain were performed on the specimens from Lusaka. P. carinii cysts were detected in none of 27 Lusaka patients, compared to 10 of 33 Stockholm patients. M. tuberculosis was identified in 11 of 22 Lusaka patients tested. In conclusion, P. carinii could not be incriminated as the aetiological agent of HIV-associated pneumonia in Zambia in contrast to the situation in Sweden, where Pneumocystis is the dominating aetiological agent. PMID- 2515631 TI - Spontaneous reduction in Schistosoma mansoni infection in endemic communities of the lake Tana basin, north-western Ethiopia. AB - The prevalence and intensity of Schistosoma mansoni infections were studied in 3 endemic communities in north-western Ethiopia using the Kato-Katz stool examination technique to determine changes in the epidemiology of schistosomiasis in the absence of control programmes. The prevalence declined in Chwahit community by 21.6%, and in the villages of Jenda and Guramba by 43.2 and 100% respectively in the course of 15 years. This spontaneous reduction in schistosomiasis is perhaps the result of recurrent drought in the area. This finding has implications for public health programmes in the area and intervention measures against schistosomiasis. PMID- 2515633 TI - Vitamin A deficiency and its role in infection. PMID- 2515632 TI - Time-resolved immunofluorometric assay (TR-IFMA) for the detection of the schistosome circulating anodic antigen. AB - We report the development of a time-resolved immunofluorometric assay (TR-IFMA) for the quantitative determination of the schistosome circulating anodic antigen (CAA). A mouse monoclonal antibody (line 120-1B10-A), recognizing a repetitive epitope on CAA, was used as both antigen-capture antibody and as Europium labelled antigen-detecting antibody. The lower detection limit of the assay was 20 pg of trichloroacetic acid soluble fraction of adult worm antigen (AWA-TCA) per ml, with a nearly linear measuring range from 20 pg to 130 ng AWA-TCA per ml. The TR-IFMA was compared with an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), in which the same monoclonal antibody was used as antigen-capture antibody and as alkaline phosphatase-conjugated antibody. The lower detection limit of the TR IFMA was tenfold lower than that of the ELISA, while the linear range of the TR IFMA exceeded that of the ELISA one hundred-fold. Serum samples of 80 Burundese individuals infected with Schistosoma mansoni (egg counts ranging from 4 to 2583 eggs per gram of faeces) were tested in both assays. Antigen concentrations in serum of individuals infected with S. mansoni ranged from 0-500 ng AWA-TCA per ml. The correlation between antigen levels measured by TR-IFMA and ELISA was good: Spearman's p = 0.92. Whereas in the ELISA the samples had to be titrated, the wide linear range of the TR-IFMA allowed the assay to be performed at a single serum dilution, at which an exact estimation of the antigen concentration was possible. PMID- 2515634 TI - Cellular immune responses to Plasmodium falciparum antigens in children receiving long term anti-malarial chemoprophylaxis. AB - Fifty-two Gambian children who had received fortnightly chemoprophylaxis with maloprim, (pyrimethamine and dapsone), and 45 receiving placebo, were studied. Cellular immune responses to malaria antigens, measured by lymphoproliferative responses and interferon production, were higher in children who had received prophylaxis than in controls, although the anti-malarial antibody levels were lower. During a one-year period after termination of prophylaxis, there was no increase in the frequency of clinical episodes of malaria in the children who had received Maloprim. These results suggest that chemoprophylaxis for 3 years may lower malaria antibody levels, but does not interfere with the development of protective immunity, perhaps by enhancing cell-mediated immune responses to malaria in protected children. PMID- 2515635 TI - Schistosoma mansoni infection in a new settlement in Metekel district, north western Ethiopia: morbidity and side effects of treatment with praziquantel in relation to intensity of infection. AB - A study of morbidity and side effects of treatment with praziquantel in relation to intensity of infection with Schistosoma mansoni was conducted in 406 infected individuals from a newly-settled village in Metekel, north-western Ethiopia. Each subject was submitted to a standardized medical history and abdominal palpation. The frequencies of hepatomegaly and splenomegaly were low, 2% and 3%, respectively. A positive association was found between egg load and a history of blood in the stool. Interviews on side effects were conducted on the day following treatment with praziquantel (40 mg/kg body weight). Positive correlations with egg load were found for several side effects, including abdominal pain, diarrhoea, headache, back pain, and vomiting. Unusual side effects involving swelling of various parts of the body confirm 2 previous reports from a different region in Ethiopia and should be investigated further. PMID- 2515636 TI - Prevalence of vaginal schistosomiasis caused by Schistosoma haematobium in an endemic village in Niger. PMID- 2515639 TI - G protein-dependent regulation of phospholipase C. AB - A wide variety of receptors for hormones, neurotransmitters and growth factors control cell function via the GTP-dependent activation of phosphoinositide specific phospholipase C (PIC). At least two distinct GTP dependent proteins (G proteins) have been implicated in coupling different receptor populations to the activation of PIC and five immunologically distinct isozymes of PIC have been purified to homogeneity, prompting speculation about the potential for multiple modes of organization of the participants in this signal transduction pathway. The mechanism of hormone and G protein-dependent regulation of PIC has been studied in detail using [3H]inositol labelled turkey erythrocyte membranes and these experiments have provided strong support for the involvement of a heterotrimeric G protein. Further progress requires the development of reconstitution assays in which the regulation of isolated PICs by defined G proteins can be demonstrated. PMID- 2515638 TI - The snail host of schistosomiasis in Sao Tome. PMID- 2515637 TI - Control of morbidity due to Schistosoma haematobium on Pemba island; selective population chemotherapy of schoolchildren with haematuria to identify high-risk localities. AB - In Pemba, Tanzania, 2 sequential surveys were made of the prevalence of haematuria in children (aged 5-19 years) in 52 schools, using direct observation of gross haematuria (bloody urine) and chemical reagent strips as indicators of Schistosoma haematobium infection. 24,462 children were examined in the first survey and 25,575 in the second, 6 months later. The prevalence of gross haematuria was initially 15.8% (3876 cases); 6 months later, after a single dose of praziquantel (40 mg/kg), it was only 2.4% (613 cases), a reduction of 84.9%. The total number of cases of haematuria (gross or otherwise) dropped similarly, from 13,920 (54%) to 6638 (26%), a 52.2% reduction. In towns the degree of reduction was positively correlated with the standard of water supply and sanitation available, and the initial prevalence of gross and total haematuria in schools was positively correlated with the prevalence 6 months later. The cost per person reduced from US$ 0.83 in the first survey to US$ 0.48 in the second (excluding field staff wages paid in local currency), the reduction being due to the reduced number of positive persons. This study has demonstrated the feasibility of using indirect techniques on a large scale for the diagnosis of S. haematobium infection to identify schoolchildren requiring treatment, and to monitor its impact on clinical morbidity in a highly endemic area. PMID- 2515640 TI - Muscarinic activation of potassium channels in cardiac myocytes: kinetic aspects of G protein function in vivo. AB - Muscarinic agonists open potassium-selective K(ACh) channels in cardiac myocytes of pacemaker or atrial origin. Receptor activation is coupled to channel opening by a membrane bound guanine nucleotide-binding protein (GK) through a process that does not require cytoplasmic intermediates. We have used the muscarinic potassium channel and the corresponding macroscopic current, IACh, as rapid, sensitive and specific indicators of the state of activation of GK. This approach, developed here in quantitative detail, allowed us to identify the salient kinetic processes involved in the activation and deactivation of GK in vivo. Agonist was found to act by accelerating the rate of GDP release, and the subsequent GTP uptake by GK, while deactivation was found to occur by a process that requires GTP hydrolysis. Unexpectedly, deactivation in the intact system is much more rapid than the rate of GTP hydrolysis by isolated G proteins, suggesting the presence of a GTPase-stimulating factor in intact cells. PMID- 2515641 TI - Botulinum ADP-ribosyltransferase C3: a new tool to study low molecular weight GTP binding proteins. AB - It is well known that certain bacterial toxins, e.g. cholera and pertussis toxins, ADP-ribosylate eukaryotic regulatory proteins. They have become invaluable tools in the study of G protein-linked receptors. Less well appreciated is the fact that certain strains of Clostridium botulinum types C and D produce an ADP-ribosyltransferase, termed C3. This enzyme is structurally and functionally distinct from botulinum neurotoxins C1 and D. Its substrate is the 21 kDa GTP-binding protein rho. Klaus Aktories and Alan Hall explain why C3 is now an important tool in analysing the regulatory function of the ras-related protein rho. PMID- 2515642 TI - Influence of regular tick and helminth control on productivity of small ruminants in the Lolgorien area, Narok district, Kenya. AB - Forty-five indigenous goats (one to two years old) and 45 indigenous sheep (six to eight months old) were exposed to natural tick and gastro-intestinal parasite challenge. All animals were born and reared in a pastoral husbandry system. Throughout the study they were housed at night under improved hygienic conditions and grazed during daytime with the flock from which they originated. Improvement of hygienic conditions reduced mortality. Control of intestinal parasites increased liveweight gain (LWG) in both species and reduced mortality most noticeably in sheep. Regular tick control had a negative influence on LWG in goats over one year old but a positive influence on LWG on young sheep. This, however, was of marginal economic benefit compared to a substantial benefit of helminth control. PMID- 2515643 TI - Slide culture sensitivity tests. AB - A new method for slide culture sensitivity tests of Mycobacterium tuberculosis is described in which smear-positive sputum spread on slides is incubated without prior decontamination in a selective lysed human blood medium. Results are available 7 days after setting up the tests and are particularly useful for guiding the treatment of smear-positive patients with a long history of unsuccessful chemotherapy. Drug concentrations and definitions of resistance are suggested for tests against isoniazid, streptomycin, PAS, rifampicin ethambutol and ethionamide. A good correlation was seen between the results of these tests and those of standard indirect sensitivity tests. PMID- 2515644 TI - Drug resistant tuberculous meningitis in the Philippines: report of a case. AB - A fatal case of tuberculous meningitis caused by a multiply-resistant tubercle bacillus is described, the first such case from Southeast Asia. Increased efforts to isolate Mycobacterium tuberculosis from the cerebrospinal fluid and determine the extent and pattern of drug resistance are necessary if the high mortality from this disease is to be reduced. PMID- 2515645 TI - Comparison of the inoculation of mycobacteria by spiral loop and by pipette. PMID- 2515646 TI - Gastric washing smears--help or hindrance? PMID- 2515647 TI - Resistance to antituberculosis drugs in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. AB - The prevalence of resistance to antituberculosis drugs in Riyadh was found to be 21.3%, while the rate of primary drug resistance was 11.5%. Resistance to isoniazid was the most common (19.4%) followed by rifampicin and streptomycin. The prevalence of primary and acquired rifampicin resistance was 3 and 33.7% respectively. The majority of isolates from patients with acquired resistance to rifampicin were resistant also to isoniazid. PMID- 2515648 TI - [Carbon dioxide laser in the surgical treatment of proctologic diseases]. AB - Results of the surgical treatment of 556 patients with different diseases of the anorectal area with the help of CO2 laser are presented. Functional results were good, the amount of postoperative complications was 1.5 times less, recurrences were half less, the time of intrahospital treatment was 1.5 day shorter, the period of ambulatory rehabilitation 3.8 days shorter. PMID- 2515649 TI - Interference with the humoral immune response in diverse genetic lines of chickens. II. The effect of colloidal carbon. AB - Two experiments were conducted to study the difference in humoral immune responses between lines of chickens selected for high (H) or low (L) antibody production to sheep red blood cells (SRBC). Prior to i.v. immunization with SRBC or Brucella abortus (BA), chicks of both lines were injected with either 2, 3 or 4 ml carbon suspension (59 mg carbon/ml) per kg body weight; controls were not injected. In both the H and L line, a higher dose of carbon showed a more progressive depression of the total antibody titer to SRBC during the initial stage of the primary response. The 2ME-resistant antibody titers to SRBC showed the same tendency during the latter phase of the primary response. However, chicks treated with 3 ml carbon had lower 2ME-resistant antibody titers than any other group. Following i.m. reimmunization with SRBC, the previous treatment with carbon doses enhanced total antibody titers throughout the secondary response, when compared to the controls. The 3 ml carbon-treated chicks had the highest total anti-SRBC titers in the secondary response. The secondary 2ME-resistant anti-SRBC titers were not affected by the carbon doses. Carbon treatment did not affect the antibody titers to BA. No differences between the H and L line were found in the effects of carbon on the humoral immune responses to SRBC or BA. PMID- 2515650 TI - Influence of technical parameters on the in vitro motility of equine neutrophils in the presence of streptococcal culture supernatant. AB - To identify the influence of technical factors on the in vitro motility of equine neutrophils towards streptococcus culture supernatant in an under-agarose assay, we studied the changes in eight cell migration parameters. The distances the phagocytes travelled by directed, random and spontaneous migration increased with incubation time, cell concentration and the gelatin and serum contents of the migration plates. The contribution of chemotaxis to the phagocyte migrations, however, decreased simultaneously. The directed and random, though not the spontaneous, migrations of the phagocytes increased also when the chemoattractant wells were placed closer to the cell wells but so did the influence of the chemokinetic activity of the bacterial culture supernatant on phagocyte motility. In contrast, preincubation of migration plates with the chemoattractant, the agarose content of the migration plates and contamination of the granulocytes with non-migrating, mononuclear cells did not substantially affect the in vitro migrations of the neutrophils. The changes in the in vitro motility of the equine neutrophils by these technical factors were, in general, comparable to those reported for human cells attracted by a variety of host-and bacteria-derived chemoattractants. PMID- 2515651 TI - [The efficacy of using the Ovolakt balanced nutritional mixture in the intensive therapy of surgical patients]. PMID- 2515653 TI - Quantitative determination of residual sodium-cholate in tri(N butyl)phosphate/sodium-cholate treated factor VIII-preparations. AB - A relatively simple and fast method for the quantitative determination of residual sodium-cholate in tri(n-butyl)phosphate/sodium-cholate treated factor VIII concentrate preparations was developed by solid-phase extraction and reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. PMID- 2515652 TI - [The use of loading tests with labeled GM1-ganglioside for differential diagnosis of GM1-gangliosidosis]. AB - Kinetics of GM1-ganglioside accumulation was studied in fibroblast cultures from patients with various forms of GM1-gangliosidosis using the labelled native substrate GM1-ganglioside isolated from human brain. A shape of accumulation curves in the plot was shown to depend on GM1-ganglioside concentration in a medium in juvenile form of the disease. Use of a number of the fibroblast strains and optimal concentration of GM1-ganglioside 20 micrograms/ml enabled to carry out allele differentiation of the juvenile form of GM1-gangliosidosis from infantile and normal forms, thus suggesting that the loading tests could be applied to pre- and postnatal diagnosis of GM1-gangliosidosis. PMID- 2515654 TI - The discovery of the enzyme test for Rh antibodies. PMID- 2515655 TI - Thermal inactivation by sequential dry-heat treatments at sterilizing temperatures (100 degrees C-boiling) of factor VIII and factor IX concentrates to produce sterile concentrates. PMID- 2515656 TI - Quality control of anti-D sera by a panel of donor red cells with weak reacting D antigen and with partial D antigens by the Federation of Netherlands Red Cross Blood Banks. PMID- 2515657 TI - [Assessment of the work capacity of patients with ischemic heart disease having undergone aortocoronary shunting]. AB - The authors studied the physical working capacity of 199 patients with ischemic heart disease at different terms following aortocoronary shunting in comparison with 208 IHD patients before the operation. They took into consideration the number of attacks of stenocardia and 24-hour dose of nitroglycerine, tolerance to physical load depending on the degree of involvement of the coronary arteries of the heart. It was found that in establishing the working capacity of patients with IHD subjected to the operation of aortocoronary shunting one frequently does not consider the objective condition of the patients which results in artificial increase of the number of patients labelled as disabled in the aspect of working capacity. PMID- 2515658 TI - [Transdermal forms of nitrates]. PMID- 2515659 TI - [The TRH test using the Bulgarian preparation Protilerin in the diagnosis of hyperthyroidism]. AB - The stimulation test--TRH test was carried out with the Bulgarian drug "Protilerin" in 63 patients (Basedow's disease--53 patients, basedoid goiter--5 patients, infiltrative ophthalmopathy--5 patients) and in 20 healthy controls. The healthy controls showed normal reaction to the stimulation. All patients with hyperthyroidism showed a suppressed response to the stimulation. In two of the patients with euthyroid infiltrative ophthalmopathy the response was similar to that of the healthy controls. The Bulgarian drug Protilerin is suitable for the performance of the TRH test in the diagnosis of hyperthyroidism. PMID- 2515660 TI - Hand protection and protection from hands: hand-washing, germicides and gloves. AB - A variety of soaps, detergents, germicides, and protective gloves are available for use by health care workers. Appropriate hand-washing and glove use will reduce the possibility of spread of infectious organisms from patient to staff, from patient to patient, and from staff to patient. Both hand-washing and glove use can have adverse effects. Excessive hand-washing, mechanical irritation from scrubbing, use of germicides, and wearing of gloves can result in irritant and allergic dermatitis. Dermatitis will result in an increased risk of infection to both the worker and the patient. PMID- 2515661 TI - Serum free levels and evaluation anticonvulsant drug interactions. AB - In clinical practice, serum level monitoring of anticonvulsant drugs is usually adequate. When there is an alteration in the binding of the anticonvulsant drug to the plasma proteins, however, the relationship between the serum concentration and therapeutic efficacy or toxicity becomes difficult to interpret. This can occur with combinations such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), phenytoin (Dilantin), carbamazepine (Tegretol), and valproic acid (Depakene) or when the albumin level is low. A failure to rely on serum free levels of the anti convulsant under these circumstances can easily result in poor clinical decisions. The technique of serum free level measurement and illustrative examples of specific cases are provided to document the usefulness of this invaluable laboratory test. PMID- 2515662 TI - Role of lipid in the electron transfer between NADPH-cytochrome P-450 reductase and cytochrome P-450 from mammalian liver cells. AB - 1. The anaerobic NADPH-reduction of the isozymes cytochrome P-450 LM2 and LM4 was used as a functional tool to study the component interaction in reconstituted monooxygenase systems in dependence on different phospholipids. 2. The isozymes were shown to exhibit similar lipid interaction. The lipids generally favour a catalytically active 1:1 complex formation between reductase and cytochrome P-450 as the rate-determining unit in electron transfer. 3. The cytochrome P-450 reduction proceeds in a biphasic reaction. In dilauroyl phosphatidylcholine (DLPC)-reconstituted systems the amount of the fast reduction psi 1 is stoichiometrically limited by the reductase in deficit: psi 1 corresponds to the 1:1 complex formation capability of the reductase. 4. In vesicle-reconstituted systems an 'overstoichiometric' reductase cycling is observed which gives rise to a significantly increased amount of fast reduction psi 1. Reductase cycling is proposed to occur in protein clusters of cytochrome P-450 and reductase in deficit. 5. The dissociation constant KRP of the functionally active reductase cytochrome P-450 complex has been determined by means of the amount of psi 1 (DPLC) and the rate constant kapp 1 (vesicles) of the fast reduction as a measure of the complex formation in dependence on the protein molar ratio. Taking into account the actual protein concentration in the vesicular lipid phase, KRP in vesicles has been calculated to be about 3 orders of magnitude increased in comparison to DLPC-reconstituted systems. 6. Vmax data reveal almost the same catalytic activity of both reconstitution modes, which justifies DLPC reconstitution in model investigations. The vesicle-specific increased accumulation of reduced cytochrome P-450 in the steady state as originated by reductase cycling may offer the physiological advantage of an increased capacity of cytochrome P-450 for synergistic substrate conversion via cytochrome b5. PMID- 2515663 TI - Further studies on metabolism in vivo of 3,4,3',4'-tetrachlorobiphenyl in rats: identification of minor metabolites in rat faeces. AB - 1. Metabolism in vivo of 3,4,3',4'-tetrachlorobiphenyl (TCB) was investigated in male Wistar rats. 2. Five new minor metabolites in addition to two previously identified major metabolites (5-hydroxy-3,4,3',4'-TCB and 4-hydroxy-3,5,3',4' TCB) were isolated as methylated derivatives from faeces of rats treated with 3,4,3',4'-TCB, by silica gel column chromatography and subsequent preparative t.l.c. 3. Among these methylated metabolites, three were identified as dimethoxy TCB, and one as monomethoxy-trichlorobiphenyl (TriCB), by g.l.c.-mass spectrometry. By comparison with synthetic standards they were fully identified as 2,5-dimethoxy-3,4,3',4'-TCB, 4,4'-dimethoxy-3,5,3',5'-TCB, 5,6-dimethoxy 3,4,3',4'-TCB, and 4-methoxy-3,3',4'-TriCB, respectively. The structures of these metabolites in rat faeces should therefore be 2,5-dihydroxy-3,4,3',4'-TCB, 4,4' dihydroxy-3,5,3',5'-TCB, 5,6-dihydroxy-3,4,3',4'-TCB, and 4-hydroxy-3,3',4' TriCB. 4. One further metabolite was isolated, which was shown to be an oxepin, existing in a state of equilibration with the 4',5'-oxide of the major metabolite, 4-hydroxy-3,5,3',4'-TCB, by mass and 1H-n.m.r. spectra. On standing for several months, this metabolite isomerized to a new compound with a different g.l.c. retention time, which on methylation yielded a product identical with synthetic 4,4'-dimethoxy-3,5,3',5'-TCB by g.l.c.-mass spectrometry. From these results this metabolite was assumed to be an oxepin, equilibrated with 4-hydroxy 4',5'-epoxy-3,5,3',4'-TCB. PMID- 2515664 TI - Induction of monooxygenase and transferase activities in rat by dietary administration of flavonoids. AB - 1. The influence of the dietary flavonoids, chrysin, quercetin, tangeretin, flavone and flavanone, on the components of the rat liver drug-metabolizing enzyme system was examined and compared with two well-known synthetic flavonoids 7,8-benzoflavone and 5,6-benzoflavone. 2. Polyhydroxylated molecules such as quercetin and chrysin, produced no significant changes on phase I and phase II enzyme activities. 3. Flavone was the most potent inducer, and resulted in a mixed type of induction. 7-Ethoxycoumarin O-deethylase (ECOD), 7-ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase (EROD) and pentoxyresorufin depentylase (PROD) activities were increased 2, 30 and 15-fold respectively. p-Nitrophenol UDP-glucuronyltransferase (UDPGT 1), p-hydroxybiphenyl UDP-glucuronyltransferase (UDPGT 2) and glutathione transferase (GST) activities were also induced. 4. Flavanone, which differs from flavone only by the degree of unsaturation of the pyrone ring, produced only a weak increase in monooxygenase activity, but the increase in phase II enzyme activities was as great as that for flavone treatment. 5. Tangeretin displayed a mixed pattern of induction, with increases in ECOD, EROD and PROD, and UDPGT 1 and UDPGT 2 activities, but these were less than with flavone treatment. 6. 7,8 Benzoflavone and 5,6-benzoflavone showed induction patterns similar to those of 3 methylcholanthrene. Nevertheless dietary treatment with 5,6-benzoflavone caused changes which were not as great as those usually described when this compound is administered i.p. PMID- 2515665 TI - Studies on covalent binding of (-)trans-7,8-dihydroxy-7,8-dihydrobenzo[a]pyrene metabolites to cytochromes P-450 LM2 and LM4 and NADPH-cytochrome P-450 reductase. AB - 1. Metabolism of 14C-labelled benzo[a]pyrene (-)trans-7,8-dihydrodiol to protein- and DNA-binding products in a reconstituted enzyme system proceeds 5 to 10 times faster with rabbit cytochrome P-450 LM4 than with LM2. 2. Either cytochrome converts the substrate to ethyl acetate- and water-soluble metabolites, identified by h.p.l.c. Water-soluble metabolites comprise 78% of the total products with cytochrome P-450 LM2, but only 50% of those formed by LM4. The relative proportion of the two types of metabolites is differentially affected by certain modifiers such as 7,8-benzoflavone. 3. Half of the radioactivity in the aqueous phase of reaction mixtures containing cytochrome P-450 LM4 represents ( )trans-7,8-diol metabolites in complex primarily with NADPH and phosphate. The remaining water-soluble products are bound covalently to proteins in the reconstituted system. 4. Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, autoradiography, and measurement of the radioactivity in individual bands indicate that a larger fraction of metabolites is bound to cytochrome P-450 LM4 than to NADPH-cytochrome P-450 reductase, and only marginal binding to cytochrome P-450 LM2 is seen. Metabolite binding to added DNA is likewise substantially greater in magnitude when cytochrome P-450 LM4, as opposed to LM2, catalyses (-)trans-7,8-diol oxygenation. Thus, the degree of metabolite binding to monoxygenase proteins and to DNA correlates well with the catalytic activity of cytochrome P-450 LM4 and LM2 towards (-)trans-7,8-diol. 5. DNA causes a dramatic enhancement in the activity of cytochrome P-450 LM4 with (-)trans-7,8-diol, indicating that the cytochrome and/or the reductase may be functionally impaired by metabolites of this substrate. Such an effect may alter the balance between detoxication and activation of the carcinogenic benzo[a]pyrene. PMID- 2515666 TI - [Diagnosis of gonorrhea using a microfluorimetric Neisseria gonorrheae-specific enzyme detection test]. AB - The diagnostic importance of a new approach for the detection of N. go. by 1,2 Propanediol: NAD+-Oxidoreductase (1,2-PDOR) counting was demonstrated. The advantages are established in supporting of the culture diagnosis of cervical and urethral swabs and in the shorting of the diagnostic way by isolation of N. go. colonies and biochemical differentiation. PMID- 2515667 TI - [The clinico-diagnostic value of C-reactive protein, determined by simple radial immunodiffusion and compared with latex agglutination]. AB - Importance of CRP-determination in rapid diagnosis of septic diseases in children is being examined. Specificity and sensitivity of white blood cell count, thrombocyte count, blood sedimentation rate, differential blood count and CRP were evaluated statistically. Rapid diagnosis was performed with sera of 95 patients shortly after being admitted on ward. The values of children with serious bacterial diseases were compared with those of children with serious abacterial ones. Significant superiority of CRP was established. To be successful a rapid and simple method must be available. In our study combined measurement of CRP by latex agglutination and RID has turned out to be advantageous for early detection of bacterial infection. PMID- 2515668 TI - [The course of Crohn disease and side effect profile with long-term treatment using metronidazole]. AB - In a prospective study 21 patients with Crohn's disease not responding to standard treatment (salazosulfapyridine and/or corticosteroids) received metronidazole in a dose of 12 to 20 mg per kg body weight over 6 and 12 months respectively. The objectives were documentation of side effects and pharmacokinetic behaviour of metronidazole in relation to the course of the disease. In 3 months intervals and 3 months after the end of treatment activity indices were determined, the side effects of metronidazole were recorded and the drug plasma concentration was measured. Compliance of drug intake was excellent (94%). Best-Index decreased to a minimum after 6 months, orosomucoid after 3 months. Side effects from metronidazole (black tongue, dark urine, paraesthesia, metallic taste, epigastric pain, skin reactions, nausea) were reported by over 80% of the patients at any time of the study. Nearly 50% of patients developed paraesthesia, which was still present 3 months after the end of treatment. A mean dose of 15.4 mg per kg corresponded to a mean plasma concentration of 10.9 micrograms/ml of metronidazole. Plasma concentrations were not related to treatment success nor to the incidence of side effects. Treatment of Crohn's disease with metronidazole for longer than 3 months is not recommended both because of lack of additional therapeutic gain and because of the increasing risk of side effects. PMID- 2515669 TI - [Long-term treatment of Menetrier disease with ranitidine]. AB - A boy aged 15 years developed Menetrier's disease with considerably elevated gastrointestinal protein loss. During treatment with ranitidine the gastric mucosa and the protein loss were normalized within 3 years. This therapy is being continued since 6 1/2 years meanwhile. A long-term treatment of Menetrier's disease with ranitidine should, therefore, be tried in other cases. PMID- 2515670 TI - Terminal complement complex and endothelial cells. AB - The effects of the terminal complement sequence on two endothelial cell functions (prostacyclin (PGI2) generation and permeability of an endothelial cell monolayer) were examined in antibody-sensitized pulmonary artery endothelial cells. Whereas C5b-7 complement complexes induced on PGI2 formation and no enhanced endothelial permeability, addition of purified complement component C8 resulted in a time- and dose-dependent burst of PGI2 release and in a substantially increased permeability of an endothelial cell monolayer in the absence of overt cell damage. Formation of the complete terminal complement complex C5b-9 enhanced PGI2 release but was accompanied by cytolysis. Extracellular Ca2+ was required for C5b-8 dependent PGI2 formation. Three different blockers of physiological calcium channels failed to suppress the observed stimulatory effect. One minute after addition of C8 to endothelial cells carrying C5b-7 complexes, a six to sevenfold enhanced passive influx of 45Ca2+ into the cells was noted. An enhanced passive influx was also observed for 51CrO4(2-), 3H-aminobutyric acid, and 3H-sucrose, but not for 3H-inulin and 3H dextran. These data together suggest that complement C5b-8 complexes may serve as Ca2+-bypass gates in endothelial cells, the ensuing influx of Ca2+ leading to subsequent activation of the arachidonic acid pathway and the actin-myosin system. PMID- 2515671 TI - Eicosanoids in the local regulation of haemostasis. AB - Prostaglandin 12, a potent antiplatelet agent, is formed by arterial wall cells to a differing extent. Various mechanisms are involved regulating synthesis and degradation. The mechanisms by which PGI2 exerts its biological action are still under debate. The most prominent ones are the action on fibrinolysis, thromboresistance, smooth muscle cell proliferation, extracellular matrix formation, endothelial stability, lipid metabolism, cytoprotection, and white blood cells among others. In vivo investigations have proven some of these mechanisms in human. The decreased thrombogenicity, endothelial stabilization, and reduction in intravascular lipids can be visualized under gamma-camera after autologous labelling of platelets or LDL, respectively. The local interaction of eicosanoids with other compounds regulates hemostasis in a rather complex system. PMID- 2515672 TI - [Inhibition of thrombocyte aggregation and adhesion by endothelium-derived relaxant factor (EDRF) and their pathophysiologic significance]. AB - Changes in viscous drag acting upon the endothelial lining and a number of circulating agonists (ATP, ADP, serotonin, thrombin) stimulate the release of EDRF from intact endothelial cells. EDRF is probably identical with nitric oxide (NO), the vasoactive compound which is also formed in the metabolism of nitrovasodilators in the vasculature (some of them directly release NO without the essential foregoing bioconversion step). Albuminally released NO stimulates soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) in the vasculature initiating vasodilation; luminally released NO stimulates, sGC in platelets and increases cyclic GMP inhibiting platelet activation and aggregation. Endothelial impairment brings about loss of dilator and antiaggregant capacity. PMID- 2515674 TI - Formation and functional importance of endothelium-derived relaxing factor (EDRF) and prostaglandins in the microcirculation. AB - Vasodilation mediated by endothelium-derived relaxing factor (EDRF) has been demonstrated in large conduit arteries in vitro. Experiments were undertaken to investigate whether EDRF can also be produced in the microcirculation and thus could participate in the regulation of peripheral resistance. In a first series of experiments we studied a peripheral vascular bed, the hindlimb of the rabbit. The right femoral artery of anaesthetized rabbits was cannulated and blood was supplied through a shunt from the carotid artery. Blood flow through the hindlimb was measured in the shunt. Systemic pressure was measured in the abdominal aorta. Vascular resistance in the hindlimb was calculated from the two parameters. The haemodynamic effects of endothelium-dependent and -independent vasodilators (infused into the shunt) were measured before and after selective treatment of the vascular bed with gossypol, an irreversible inhibitor of the production or release of EDRF. The endothelium-dependent vasodilators acetylcholine and substance P, and the endothelium-independent vasodilators prostaglandin E1 and glyceryl trinitrate induced dose-dependent decreases in vascular resistance. Gossypol almost abolished the effects of acetylcholine and substance P on vascular resistance, but had no significant effect on the responses to prostaglandin E1 and glyceryl trinitrate. Also the decrease in peripheral resistance produced by hydralazine was not affected by gossypol although in the same rabbits the response to acetylcholine was inhibited by more than 70%. In bioassay experiments the production of EDRF was measured from cultured human microvascular (omentum) and macrovascular (umbilical vein) endothelial cells.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515673 TI - Mechanisms controlling the production of endothelial autacoids. AB - The endothelium plays an important role in the control of vascular tone and platelet activity. This is mainly achieved by the release of autacoids, particularly EDRF (identical with nitric oxide, NO) and PGI2. The release of both autacoids is evoked by physical factors like hypoxia and shear stress and by various chemical compounds like acetylcholine, ATP and bradykinin. These agonists bind to membrane receptors coupled to phospholipase C, thereby increasing production of inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3). IP3 mobilizes Ca2+ from intracellular stores, thus elevating the intracellular free calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i), in synergy with a simultaneously induced transmembrane Ca2+ influx. The level of [Ca2+]i closely correlates with endothelial production of PGI2 whereas Ca2+ influx is apparently a decisive signal for the sustained release of EDRF. This influx may be facilitated by an agonist-induced membrane hyperpolarization probably being mediated by activation of Ca2+-dependent K+ channels. Depolarization of the endothelial cell membrane on the other hand (evoked by raising the extracellular K+ concentration) attenuates the Ca2+ influx as well as EDRF release. The agonist-induced endothelial hyperpolarization may also be electrotonically transmitted to adjacent smooth muscle cells via myoendothelial gap junctions and may act synergistically with the EDRF-mediated relaxation. Alternatively, spread of this electrical signal along the endothelial lining may enhance the release of autacoids. PMID- 2515675 TI - [The seasonality of scabies morbidity and the fertility of the itch mite Sarcoptes scabiei de Geer as an index of the activity of a population of the causative agent]. AB - The authors analyze the features of the epidemic process in scabies and review foreign and Soviet literature on the seasonal pattern of this condition. They have introduced the mite fertility index, that is determined by the number of eggs in the mite burrow, counted with the use of a new laboratory diagnostic technique with lactic acid. The studies have revealed that this index is high in September-December (11.5 +/- 1.0 - 12.6 +/- 1.3) and much lower in January-July (8.9 +/- 1.1 - 6.0 +/- 0.6). Another finding was that some females were in a latent state from December to July, when oogenesis was arrested and therefore the agent population activity dropped. The results have demonstrated regular seasonal changes in S. scabiei reproductivity, coinciding with the disease phenology; besides social and communal factors, these regularities also contribute to the epidemiology of scabies. PMID- 2515677 TI - [The reaction of tadpoles of the common toad (Bufo bufo L.) to chemical signals from individuals of their own and other species]. AB - In behavioral experiments, toad tadpoles-recipients chose between two parts of test aquarium with chemical signals of donor tadpoles of the same or different (Rana esculenta) species. The youngest studied tadpoles (43-45 stages) preferred the part of the aquarium with chemical cues from sibs as compared to non-sibs. No reliable difference in "non-sibs: water" system was observed. In "tadpoles of the same species: tadpoles of the other species" system, recipient tadpoles chose "their" part of the aquarium. Hence, toad tadpoles revealed a trend to aggregate with their sibs and avoid R. esculenta toads in the presence of certain chemical cues and in the absence of visual signals. PMID- 2515676 TI - [The therapeutic efficacy of a gonococcal vaccine]. AB - The therapeutic efficacies of 2 gonococcal vaccines are compared. One of them is made from gonococcal strains selected for their antigenic characteristics, the other is a commercial vaccine prepared from a random sample of gonococcal strains. The studies have demonstrated a higher therapeutic efficacy of the former vaccine. This fact calls for the creation at production centers of permanent collections of antigenically full-value gonococcal cultures; such collections will help improve the gonococcal vaccine, standardize it, and enhance its biological activity. PMID- 2515678 TI - [Antitubercular agents. 45. Antimycobacterial thiohydrazide]. AB - The present paper investigates the activity of thiohydrazides containing a structural fragment of oxalic acid against Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Mycobacterium kansasii. The drugs included heterocyclic compounds as well. All compounds under study show medium activity. The minimal inhibition concentrations against Mycobacterium kansasii are approximately 3 times higher than against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The most effective aromatic compounds have the RM values (silica gel impregnated with silicon oil-water) in the interval of 2.2 2.6. PMID- 2515679 TI - Physico-chemical properties of Aspergillus flavus var. columnaris alpha-amylase. AB - The best temperature for the preservation of A. flavus var. columnaris alpha amylase was -5 degrees C followed by 5 degrees C. CaCl2 at 0.005 M had no effect on the activity in both temperatures. Repeated freezing (-5 degrees C) and thawing followed by freezing (-5 degrees C) had no effect on stability of alpha amylase. On the other hand, 25 degrees C was the lowest preservation temperature without any effect on the stability on alpha-amylase. 0.005 M CaCl2 decreased the activity of alpha-amylase and reached a 100% inhibition at 35th day. The fungal alpha-amylase had an optimum temperature of 55 degrees C at pH 4.6, but had 60 degrees C in buffer containing 0.005 M CaCl2 and 50 degrees C in buffer containing 0.005 M Na2-EDTA. The addition of 0.01 M CaCl2 greatly increased the thermostability of alpha-amylase at 40, 45, 50, 55 and 60 degrees C for 30 min. Optimum pH for alpha-amylase only was 5, but in the presence of 0.01 M CaCl2 or Na2-EDTA 5.6. The enzyme only was stable for 4 h at 25 degrees C. Whereas addition of 0.01 M CaCl2 showed a loss of 4% compared to a 22% loss in the presence of 0.01 M Na2-EDTA after 4 h at 25 degrees C and 65% loss in the presence of 0.01 M CaCl2 together with 0.01 M Na2-EDTA in the beginning and a 100% loss after 4 h at 25 degrees C. The optimum temperature for the activity of alpha-amylase at pH 5 was 50 degrees C for the enzyme only but 55 degrees C in the presence of 0.01 M CaCl2. However, at pH 6 and 7 optimum temperature was 55 degrees C for the activity of the enzyme only or with 0.01 M CaCl2. The presence of 0.01 M CaCl2 at pH 5, 6 and 7 resulted in increase of enzyme activity at the temperatures above 50, 40 and 25 degrees C, respectively. However, 0.01 M CaCl2 at pH 5 and 6 resulted in decreasing enzyme activity at temperatures below 55 and 45 degrees C, respectively. PMID- 2515680 TI - Effect of chemicals on fungal alpha-amylase activity. AB - The effect of 8 growth regulators at concentrations of 1,000, 5,000 and 10,000 ppm on the activity of fungal (Aspergillus flavus var. columnaris) alpha-amylase was studied. Indol acetic acid (IAA) and naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) inhibited alpha-amylase activity by 2% and 7% at 1,000 ppm. The other 6 growth regulators, indol butyric acid (IBA), gibberellic acid, cumarin, cycocel (CCC), atonik-G and kylar, did not inhibit but stimulated alpha-amylase activity (0 to 9%) at 1,000 ppm. All growth regulators studied inhibited alpha-amylase activity at 5,000 and 10,000 ppm concentration except kylar. The effect of organic acids and formaldehyde at 0.01, 0.005, and 0.001 M was studied. Acetic acid stimulated alpha-amylase at all concentrations, but formic acid, oxalic acid, lactic acid and citric acid inhibited alpha-amylase activity by 91, 100, 100 and 79%, respectively, at a concentration of 0.01 M, while by 31, 100, 15 and 20%, respectively, at 0.005 M. Formaldehyde induced 7, 3 and 2% inhibition at 0.01, 0.005 and 0.001 M, respectively. At 0.01 M either sorbitol or fructose inhibited alpha-amylase by 8%, Maltose 7%, sucrose 6%, phenol, glucose and galactose each by 5%, ethanol, glycerol, arabinose and sodium benzoate each by 4%, isopropanol and mannitol 1%, but methanol and ammonium citrate dibasic did not inhibit alpha amylase. The results indicate that CuCl2, SnCl2, AgNO3 and Fe2(SO4)3 were the strongest inhibitors, followed by Cd(C2H3O2), HgCl2, Na2-EDTA, Na2HPO4, and CaCl2 in decreasing order. NaCl, NaBr and Mn SO4 did not inhibit alpha-amylase at concentrations from 10 mM to 0.01 mM. PMID- 2515681 TI - An ultrastructural study of spontaneous chronic lung lesions in asymptomatic rabbits. AB - An electron microscopical study of chronic lung lesions in 12 clinically healthy, purpose bred laboratory rabbits (eight of which were free from infections with known respiratory pathogens but 4 of them carried a natural B. bronchiseptica infection) revealed focal chronic interstitial pneumonia, vascular changes and focal chronic bronchiolitis. In addition, severe endothelial changes and intravascular deposition of collagen were observed in septal capillaries. In type I pneumocytes and septal capillary endothelium we noticed numerous rounded structures, 70-90 nm in diameter, which consisted of a limiting two layer membrane enclosing an irregularly rounded electron-dense centre surrounded by a more electron-lucent halo. These structures appeared free in the cytoplasm, or they were attached to or apparently budding from membranes other than the plasmalemma. Particles located extracellularly were not found. Whether the structures described were involved in the genesis of the lesions found remains to be elucidated. PMID- 2515682 TI - Spinal muscular atrophy in Brown Swiss calves. AB - Nineteen Brown Swiss calves affected with spinal muscular atrophy were described. Weakness of the rear legs was the first sign observed at 3 to 4 weeks of age. Terminal stages were characterized by severe muscular atrophy, quadriparesis, and sternal recumbency. Bronchopneumonia was a frequent complicating disease. Microscopic changes consisted mainly of degeneration and loss of motor neurons in the ventral horns of the spinal cord. Neurogenic atrophy of muscles was a constant finding. Electron microscopy revealed accumulation of neurofilaments and mitochondria in affected neurons. The disease shares many features with Werdnig Hoffmann disease in man and the spinal muscular atrophies of other animals. PMID- 2515684 TI - Studies on lorazepam as a premedicant for thiopental anaesthesia in the dog. AB - Four mg of lorazepam was given intravenously 5 min prior to thiopental anaesthesia in 5 clinically healthy dogs weighing 14 +/- 2 kg and aged about 10 12 months. Animals required only 7.0 +/- 1.5 ml of 5% thiopental sodium to achieve surgical anaesthesia which lasted about 30.4 +/- 3.3 minutes. There was adequate muscle relaxation and loss of pedal and palpebral reflexes. Five min after administration of lorazepam, there was no appreciable change in various cardiopulmonary dynamics. However, there was moderate arterial hypertension, tachycardia and arterial hypoxemia 15 min after the onset of the thiopental anaesthesia. There was no respiratory depression. The lorazepam-thiopental combination was also attempted in 16 clinical cases varying from repair of fractures of long bones (9), mammary tumour (2), ear haematoma (1), ear cropping (1), tail gangrene (2) and rectal prolapse (1). This combination of anaesthesia proved extremely useful for orthopaedic surgery as the muscle relaxation was adequate and reduction of the fractured ends was comparatively easier. PMID- 2515683 TI - Canine perineal tumours. AB - One hundred and thirty nine canine perineal tumours were histologically evaluated. The vast majority (134 tumours = 96.4%) appeared to originate from the characteristic glandular structures of this region. They were classified as well differentiated perianal gland tumours (58.3%), as moderately or poorly differentiated perianal gland tumours (21.6%) and as carcinomas without perianal gland differentiation (16.5%). Only 5 tumours (3.6%) appeared to originate from non-characteristic perineal structures. A prominent male predominance was found with respect to the perianal gland tumours, whereas the carcinomas showed a distinct female predisposition. Tumours showing perianal gland differentiation almost invariably will have a benign behaviour. The carcinomas lacking any perianal gland differentiation often show a distinct malignant behaviour with metastases to regional lymph nodes and internal organs. These malignant neoplasms showed morphological and clinical features comparable to canine anal sac gland adenocarcinomas and carcinoids in man and animals. PMID- 2515685 TI - Influence of theophylline on the electrical potential difference and ion fluxes (Na, Cl, K) across the isolated rumen epithelium of sheep. AB - Although it is well established that Na and Cl are actively absorbed by the rumen epithelium, nothing is known about the regulation of electrolyte transport across the rumen mucosa. Therefore, we have investigated the influence of theophylline, a known inhibitor of the enzyme phosphodiesterase, on the electrical parameters of the rumen epithelium as well as on electrolyte (Na, Cl, K) transport across this tissue. The experiments were performed using isolated rumen mucosa from sheep mounted in a Ussing type chamber. Serosal addition of theophylline resulted in a significant drop of the transepithelial potential difference as well as the short circuit current. The effect of theophylline is probably mediated by cAMP, since the addition of cAMP yielded qualitatively similar results. With respect to the ion fluxes only transport of Na in the muco-serosal direction and as a result the net flux of Na were significantly reduced in the presence of theophylline. The effects of theophylline on rumen epithelium are best explained by an inhibition of electrogenic as well as electroneutral Na transport. Since cAMP serves as a second messenger for the effect of various regulatory substances including gastrointestinal hormones and transmitters regulation of electrolyte transport across the rumen epithelium possibly occurs under physiological conditions. PMID- 2515686 TI - Type A2 congenital tremor in piglets. AB - A neonatal congenital tremor (CT) syndrome that sporadically occurs in Belgian piglets is described. The results of an epidemiologic follow-up survey on affected farms is presented. Experimental trials to provoke this syndrome by inoculation of a brain suspension, derived from CT-piglets, in pregnant sows by intramuscular and intrauterine way, partly succeeded. Histological and biochemical studies on brain tissue of these piglets indicated that this form of CT should be classified as an A2 form. Using serologic and virologic examinations we were however not able to identify the probably infectious CT-agent. PMID- 2515687 TI - Cardiac manifestation and blood catecholamine levels during succinylcholine induced stress of malignant hyperthermia sensitive pigs. AB - Fifteen crossbred pigs of Swedish Landrace and Yorkshire, about 6 months of age and susceptible to develop malignant hyperthermia (MH) when exposed to halothane, were subjected to stress provoked by the myorelaxant succinylcholine. The results were compared with those of 12 normal pigs. During the stress the halothane sensitive (HS) pigs showed much higher levels of plasma noradrenaline and adrenaline and more severe ventricular arrhythmias than the controls. The degree of myocardial degeneration and necrosis being similar to catecholamine induced myocardial damage was significantly higher in the HS pigs than in the controls. The ultrastructural examination revealed three main types of changes in affected myocardial cells. One type of myocardial cell damage was characterized by various degree of hypercontraction, enlarged mitochondria with dense bodies and dilated sarcoplasmic reticulum. The other type showed mitochondria with tubular configuration whereas the third type of cell damage was characterized by almost normal mitochondria combined with a severe damage of the myofilaments. Three HS pigs which died within 30 min after stress showed signs of malignant hyperthermia. No signs of the disease were observed in the other 12 HS pigs. PMID- 2515688 TI - Changes in concentrations of certain plasma and erythrocyte minerals associated with hypomagnesaemia in young calves. AB - Hypomagnesaemia was induced in young calves 1-2 weeks old by feeding them with a diet composed of skimmed milk and barley straw to which urea, potassium chloride and soya-bean oil were added. Blood samples were collected from each calf once a week from the jugular vein until there was a significantly lower (P less than 0.01) plasma magnesium (PMg) concentration in the experimental compared to the control calves receiving MgO instead of KCl. In addition to PMg, the blood samples were analysed for plasma sodium, potassium, calcium, inorganic phosphate and erythrocyte concentrations of magnesium, sodium and potassium and red blood cell counts. The erythrocyte magnesium (EMg) concentration decreased significantly (P less than 0.01) in both groups. The decrease was, however, greater (P less than 0.05) in the magnesium deficient group than in the control group. Erythrocyte sodium (ENa) concentration increased and erythrocyte potassium (EK) concentration decreased in both groups, and the changes did not differ significantly between the two groups. Plasma concentrations of sodium (PNa) and potassium (PK) and red blood cell counts did not change significantly in either group. Significant (P less than 0.05) decreases in plasma calcium and inorganic phosphate concentrations occurred in the magnesium deficient group only. PMID- 2515689 TI - Silicate pneumoconiosis in camels (Camelus dromedarius L.). AB - In a random screening of camel diseases in Somalia dust-laden macrophages in lungs and/or bronchial lymph nodes were discovered in 94 of 134 animals. In 44 cases the dust-laden macrophages occurred in a number of small or large aggregates. There was a significant positive correlation between dust-laden macrophage aggregates in the lungs and pulmonary fibrosis not related to other chronic lung diseases, such as echinococcosis and chronic pneumonia. Six cases showed a cellular reaction and hyalinized nodules of the classic silicotic type. Energy dispersive X-ray analysis of the dust particles revealed presence of silica, aluminium, potassium and iron in that order. The possible clinical significance as well as the comparative pathology of the observations is discussed. PMID- 2515690 TI - Replenishment of AI-doses with oestrogens in physiological amounts: effect on sow prolificacy in a field trial. AB - Basing on results about physiological functions of seminal oestrogens in the genital tract of sows, the effects of an oestrogen replenishment to AI-doses were investigated in a field trial. Each ejaculate was split into two halves, which were either diluted to normal AI-doses (controls, n = 353) or diluted and replenished with oestrogens in physiological amounts (n = 384). Insemination by qualified technicians led to an improvement of the pregnancy rate (82.8% vs. 77.1%; p less than 0.05) and the litter size (10.8% vs. 10.3%; p less than 0.05) in favour of the oestrogen replenishment. These results partly explain the known differences in prolificacy between natural mating and AI and thus provide a basis for improvement of pig AI. PMID- 2515691 TI - An immunohistochemical study of canine tissues with vimentin, desmin, glial fibrillary acidic protein, and neurofilament antisera. AB - In a wide range of canine tissues the immunoreactivity with commercially available antisera against intermediate filament antigens viz. vimentin, desmin, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and neurofilament proteins, was studied. In addition, the results of formalin and Carnoy fixation were compared. Carnoy fixation appeared to result in optimal reactivity for all antisera. Epithelial cells did not react with any of the antisera, with exception of ovarian surface epithelium, which showed staining with the vimentin and desmin antisera. The vimentin antiserum induced staining of several cell types viz. fibroblasts, endothelial cells, chondrocytes, Schwann cells, ependymal cells, astrocytes, Leydig cells, synovial cells, podocytes and some parietal cells of Bowman's capsule. Sertoli cells showed a faint staining reaction. Muscle cells in various tissues reacted with the desmin antiserum. In the kidney a varying number of parietal cells appeared to react as did a restricted number of epithelial cells of proximal tubules and loops of Henle. GFAP reactivity was confined to glial cells, predominantly fibrous astrocytes, Schwann cells and axons. Additionally, some neuronal cell bodies in peripheral ganglia showed staining of varying intensity. Neurofilament staining was restricted to axons and some neurons. The immunoreactivity of canine tissues with these antisera is compared to findings in other species. The results confirm a broad interspecies cross-reactivity of these antisera. They can be used in studying the nature of canine tissues. PMID- 2515692 TI - Adrenergic and cholinergic nerve supply in the porcine myometrium and cervix. A histochemical investigation during pregnancy and parturition. AB - The distribution of adrenergic and acetylcholinesterase-containing (cholinergic) nerves in the porcine myometrium and cervix was investigated neurohistochemically. In early and mid-pregnancy the number of adrenergic nerves increased from the adtubal part of the horns to corpus uteri, being more abundant in non-placental than in placental regions. No obvious difference in the distribution of cholinergic nerves was observed among the regions examined. The cervix was richest innervated by both types of nerves throughout gestation. The diameter of the adrenergic nerves decreased during pregnancy, while cholinergic nerves showed no such a decrease. In late pregnancy and at parturition the adrenergic innervation was richest at the adtubal part of the horns and in the cervix and scanty in the rest of the uterus. Adrenergic nerves were seen both in vascular and in non-vascular smooth muscle, while cholinergic nerves were mostly associated to blood vessels. PMID- 2515693 TI - Low-energy He-Ne-laser irradiation of the bovine mammary gland. AB - The bovine mammary gland was used to examine the effects of low-energy laser irradiation. Laser irradiation with 25 mW on an area of 7.5 cm in diameter on the right front quarter lasted 30 minutes daily for five consecutive days. Six cows were used to assess the effects of this treatment on the healthy mammary gland. Subclinical mastitis was induced in twelve quarters of the same six cows with oyster glycogen and the same laser protocol was followed on the right front quarters. In both experiments the left hind quarter served as a control. Four cases of spontaneous subclinical mastitis were treated in the same way. Parameters measured included milk yield, somatic cell count, conductivity, Na/K ratio in milk serum, and fat, protein and lactose concentrations in milk. The bovine mammary gland was chosen in view of its particular suitability for the assessment of changes in biosynthetic capacity and inflammation course. In several respects, mastitis may be compared to currently recommended indications. No evidence for any stimulation of the healthy mammary gland or therapeutic effects on mastitis by low-energy He-Ne-laser could be found. PMID- 2515694 TI - Exercise-induced transient hyperlipidemia in the racehorse. AB - Effects of graded intensity exercise on plasma lipids was studied in Standardbred and Finnishbred Trotters. The rate of lipolysis indicated by the elevated plasma concentrations of glycerol increased parallel with the intensity of the trot in the Standardbreds, but not as clearly in the Finnishbred trotters. During the exercise plasma triglyceride concentration increased significantly and the increase correlated with the intensity of the exercise as well as the activity of lipolysis. Together with the increase in plasma triglycerides, there was a parallel increase in the pre-beta fraction of lipoproteins which suggests that the hepatic synthesis of triglycerides was increased. It was calculated that about one third of the nonesterified fatty acids released in lipolysis during the high-intensity exercise is oxidized and the remainder is used for resynthesis of triglycerides. Since there were interstrain differences in the concentrations of triglycerides and glycerol after the high-intensity exercise it is suggested that the differences may be of some value in the estimation of recovery after submaximal exercise. PMID- 2515695 TI - [Cardiac and circulatory physiological studies in cattle with and without cardiomyopathy]. AB - Cardiovascular examinations were performed on 29 Red-Holstein-Simmental cows, suffering from cardiomyopathy. We compared the results with those from 18 healthy animals. The cows with cardiomyopathy showed a higher heart rate, a higher and broader P-wave, a prolongation of the electric systole in relation to the RR Intervall, an increased systolic and diastolic pressure in the right ventricle and in the pulmonary artery, a higher peak pressure rise in the right ventricle and a lower peak pressure rise in the left ventricle with lower systolic and higher diastolic pressure. A lower oxygen content in the right-ventricular blood and lower carbon dioxide content in the left-ventricular blood of the sick cows may be due to a longer circulation time. The observed pulmonary hypertension is probably the result of the left heart insufficiency and is being discussed with regard of the histopathological alterations in the heart muscle and the pulmonary vessels. Possible reasons for the cardiomyopathy are described and evaluated. PMID- 2515696 TI - Malignant lymphomas of follicular centre cell origin in 14 pigs. AB - Malignant lymphomas of follicular centre cell (FCC) origin in 14 pigs are described. Seven cases were classified as abdominal type according to the distribution of the neoplastic lesions and the residual cases were of the general type. Most cases were composed of mixed populations of large and medium-sized neoplastic cells and the growing pattern varied from partially follicular to diffuse. The neoplastic cells often showed necrosis, to which macrophages reacted. A part of the neoplastic cells had cytoplasmic immunoglobulin M (CIgM) or cytoplasmic immunoglobulin G (CIgG). The histological features of swine FCC lymphomas are discussed. PMID- 2515697 TI - Studies on an idiopathic syndrome in the brown hare (Lepus europaeus P.) and mountain hare (Lepus timidus L.) in Sweden, with special reference to hepatic lesions. AB - At routine post mortem examinations performed at the National Veterinary Institute (NVI), Uppsala, Sweden, during November 1983-May 1984, a syndrome principally characterized by an acute hepatosis was found in 85 out of 177 brown hares (Lepus europaeus P.). The hepatic lesions consisted of periportal or extensive necrosis and haemorrhages. Concomitant changes in other organs were tubular necrosis in the kidneys, acute catarrhal enteritis, severe congestion, oedema and haemorrhages of the lungs, hyperemia of the spleen, and in some cases jaundice. A supplementary retrospective study of liver sections from another 388 brown hares and 202 mountain hares (Lepus timidus L.), autopsied at NVI during 1980-1985, revealed 35 additional cases of the acute hepatosis, 32 being in brown hares and 3 in mountain hares. The histopathology of the liver lesions may suggest a toxic etiology. PMID- 2515698 TI - [The use of plasmid screening for the differentiation of Bacillus anthracis strains from closely related species of soil bacilli]. AB - B. anthracis virulent and vaccine strains differ from the strains of species closely related to B. anthracis, such as B. cereus and B. thuringiensis, in their plasmid spectrum. The use of their plasmid spectrum. The use of the plasmid analysis of the strain is recommended for laboratory practice as the main differential diagnostic test. PMID- 2515699 TI - [The effect of staphylococci on the manifestation of opsonic cooperation in the complement system]. AB - The influence of the cultures of 14 Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis strains on the capacity of factor C3b of the complement for mediating the adhesive reaction of human neutrophils was studied. In experiments with 5 out of 11 S. aureus strains the essential weakening of reactions was registered, while one of the strains considerably enhanced reactions. Out of 3 S. epidermidis strains, the weakening of C3b-dependent reaction was noted in one case. The activity of the cultures did not correlate with the gelatinase properties of staphylococci and was absent in all gelatinase-positive Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains. The model worked out by the authors may be used for studying the influence of bacterial metabolites and biologically active substances on the effector properties of factor C3b of the complement. PMID- 2515700 TI - [2 organizational forms of facilities for mentally ill patients who lost their family care]. AB - The peculiarities of rehabilitation were studied in patients with long-lasting mental diseases who had lost their housing and relatives confined to specialized clinic-hotel or "halfway"-type units. The efficiency of these types of secure housing providing high level of therapeutic environment is stressed. The housing conditions and interrelations between the described forms are discussed. PMID- 2515701 TI - The occurrence of unique, long-chain polyprenols in the leaves of Potentilla species. AB - Polyprenols are accumulated in the leaves of Potentilla anserina at concentration up to 0.3% fresh weight. They constitute a mixture of poly-cis fully unsaturated analogues of up to 29 isoprene units long. In this and other species of Potentilla the polyprenol mixture is composed of two families, one grouping the medium chain-length polyprenols (built up of about 20 isoprene units), and the second one, composed mainly of very long prenolgues from 24 to approx. 28 isoprene units. This is a first report on the occurrence of polyprenyl alcohols of this chain length in plant material and the first one on the presence of multiple polyprenol mixture in angiosperms. A useful modification of polyprenols preparation from plant material, based on solid phase extraction with hydrophobic gel Lipidex-5000 is described. PMID- 2515702 TI - [Comparative study of 2 common tests for lupus anticoagulant determination: critical analysis of the results observed in 21 patients]. AB - The Schleider and/or the Exner test have been found positive in twenty-one patients; five of these patients suffered of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The Quick time and the activated partial thromboplastin time are normal in 52% of the cases. 40% have a minor haemorrhagic diathesis, without other significant clotting defect and 30% have thrombo-embolic complications. The Schleider index is more often strongly positive (greater than 2) in these two groups. 58% have an anemia, 25% a mild thrombocytopenia not deep enough to explain an haemorrhagic tendency (from 90.000 to 140.000/mm3). Several auto-immune tests are frequently positive even without SLE. The Schleider test is positive in 86% of the cases and appears a little more useful for the diagnosis than the Exner test, which has a 71% positivity. PMID- 2515703 TI - Drugs recently released in Belgium. Enprostil--Selegiline. PMID- 2515704 TI - [Diverticulosis of the distal end of the choledochus demonstrated by retrograde endoscopic cholangiopancreatography. Apropos of 5 case reports]. AB - We report on 5 observations (3 females, 2 males, mean age 66 years) of diverticula located on the left side of the distal end of the choledochus, demonstrated by ERCP. No specific symptom due to the diverticula could be found. The pathogenesis of the diverticula of the choledochus is unclear: congenital lesion for most authors, or acquired lesion secondary to reflux of pancreatic juice for others. We propose a hypothesis based on data from manometry of the sphincter of Oddi. The diverticula located above the sphincter of Oddi on a passive segment of the biliary tree could be congenital whereas the diverticula of the high pressure zone (just above the papillary orifice) might be acquired. PMID- 2515706 TI - [Eosinophil kinetics]. AB - The kinetics of 111In-oxine labeled eosinophils were studied in 3 cases of reactive eosinophilia and were compared with those of neutrophils in patients with CML and neutrophilia. The disappearance curve of the labeled eosinophils consists of two exponential components. There was a slightly increase of radioactivity between these two components, suggesting the presence of recirculation. The disappearance rate of eosinophils was faster than that of neutrophils in CML and neutrophilia. In the cases of eosinophilia and CML, the marginal pool was larger than the circulating pool. In CML, the marginal pool was the largest among these three disorders. The granulocyte turnover rate in eosinophilia was less than in CML or chronic neutrophilia. It is suggested that the migration of eosinophils is less active than that of neutrophils. PMID- 2515705 TI - [Changes in hemopoietic and immunohematologic parameters with various modes of treatment in children with congenital pure red cell aplasia]. AB - Clinical course, response to various modes of treatment and changes in in vitro marrow culture assay were studied in two patients with congenital pure red cell aplasia (Diamond-Blackfan syndrome) who were followed up for a long period. Patient 1, whose diagnosis was made at 8 months of age, was refractory to prednisolone and anabolic steroid. Bolus methylprednisolone, cyclophosphamide, ALG and high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin were given but none were effective. Particularly, hemolysis occurred during high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin therapy. In colony assay, CFU-E and BFU-E were found to be extremely decreased throughout the course, and colony formation was not corrected by adding prednisolone to the assay system. However, coculture of normal bone marrow cells with the patient's peripheral mononuclear cells resulted in reduction in CFU-E and BFU-E colonies. It was interesting that CFU-E and BFU-E were normalized after high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin therapy. Patient 2, whose diagnosis was made at 3 months of age, responded to prednisolone treatment at the early phase but became dependent on it thereafter. Thus, bolus methylprednisolone and high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin were given, without effect. Unlike patient 1, bolus methylprednisolone therapy induced reticulocytosis once. During high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin therapy, hemolysis was also observed. In colony assay, CFU-E and BFU-E decreased during the course, but were not corrected by adding prednisolone to the assay system. These findings suggest that in vitro colony assay is not always correlated with response to various therapies, and congenital pure red cell aplasia seems to be a heterogeneous disorder. The indication for high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin therapy for this disorder is limited because of hemolysis complicating the therapy. PMID- 2515707 TI - Acetyltransferase activity and production of platelet-activating factor by human neutrophils activated with various stimuli. AB - The acetyltransferase activity and biosynthesis of platelet-activating factor (PAF) were assessed in human neutrophils activated by 4 microM A23187, 20 ng/ml phorbol myristate acetate (PMA), and 10(-6) M n-formyl-methionyl-leucyl phenylalanine (fMLP). All three agents elevated the acetyltransferase activity dose-dependently. There were no significant differences in the Km values for acetyl CoA between non-stimulated and stimulated cells. All three stimuli gave a similar Vmax value of acetyltransferase determined 10 min after stimulation, being more than twice as high as the control value. By contrast, the amount of PAF produced by the neutrophils differed with the stimuli, A23187 being by far the most potent. The time course of PAF synthesis, particularly when activated by PMA, did not parallel that of acetyltransferase activity; PMA-induced PAF production was negligible for the first 20 min and gradually increased to reach its plateau 60 min after stimulation, while enzyme activity was at its highest level 5 min after stimulation. These results suggest that the different stimuli activated the same acetyltransferase, and that there was an increase in the number of the enzyme molecules in the activated state. It is unlikely that a change in the biological activity of a preexisting enzyme without a change in the number of active enzyme molecules could be the cause. Certain factors other than acetyltransferase may also regulate the PAF biosynthesis induced by these stimuli. PMID- 2515708 TI - [Interferon in the treatment of hairy cell leukemia]. PMID- 2515710 TI - Intrahospital room transfers: a potential link to delirium in the elderly. PMID- 2515711 TI - Skin assessment: a tool for nursing staff. PMID- 2515709 TI - [Effect of lithium on the hematopoietic stem cells]. PMID- 2515712 TI - Sexuality and the older woman. AB - The nurse has a responsibility to be informed of the sexual needs of older patients and the physiological changes due to aging. Through education of the patient, family and other health care personnel, the nurse can do much to change their knowledge about sexuality in the older woman (Steinke, 1988), and encourage a healthy perspective and sexuality. PMID- 2515713 TI - Mitochondrial encephalomyopathy with lactic acidosis and stroke-like episodes with special reference to the mechanism of cerebral manifestations. AB - A 29-year-old man with mitochondrial encephalomyopathy caused by partial deficiency of mitochondrial NADH-ubiquinone oxidoreductase (Complex I) is described. Clinical manifestations were characterized by generalized convulsion, dementia and stroke-like episodes consisting of hemianopsia, Gerstmann's syndrome and visual hallucination. Blood and cerebrospinal fluid lactate and pyruvate levels were elevated. Biochemical studies on a muscle biopsy specimen revealed partial deficiency of Complex I activity, and decreases in the 75-kDa and the 20 kDa subunits of Complex I by immunoblotting analysis. Serial brain CT scans revealed multiple low-density areas with fluctuating densities. Single photon emission tomographic study revealed preservation of blood circulation where CT scans showed diminished density in acute stage, suggesting the presence of abnormal cellular metabolism rather than vascular occlusion as the basic mechanism of his stroke-like episodes. Pathogenesis of neurological manifestations in MELAS is discussed with reference to the possible involvement of free radicals in inducing brain damage. PMID- 2515714 TI - New strategies in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. Symposium. Copenhagen, Denmark, January 26-27, 1989. Proceedings. PMID- 2515715 TI - Selegiline in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. AB - Selegiline is a selective, irreversible inhibitor of monoamine oxidase type B (MAO-B). It also inhibits the reuptake of catecholamines into the presynaptic nerve and enhances the synthesis of dopamine by blocking the presynaptic dopamine autoreceptors. Thanks to these properties it potentiates and prolongs the duration of action of levodopa. Several clinical trials have shown its efficacy as an adjuvant to levodopa therapy. Improvement in parkinsonian disability and reduction of fluctuations in disability can be achieved by adding selegiline to the prevailing levodopa therapy. End-of-dose type fluctuations, in particular, react favourably to selegiline. Side-effects of the therapy can be managed by reducing the dose of levodopa. According to preliminary studies selegiline may also have some benefit as monotherapy in de novo parkinsonian patients. High doses of selegiline have been found to have some antidepressant efficacy, especially in patients with nonendogenous depression. It may also have an effect on bradyphrenia and some symptoms of cognitive dysfunction and dementia. In animal models selegiline has been shown to prevent parkinsonism caused by MPTP and also to increase the life span of rats. Whether selegiline slows down the progression of Parkinson's disease needs further examination. PMID- 2515716 TI - Selegiline in the treatment of daily fluctuations in disability of parkinsonian patients with long-term levodopa treatment. AB - In order to evaluate in a double-blind manner the therapeutic efficacy of selegiline in the treatment of late-phase Parkinson's disease, 19 patients with end-of-dose type fluctuations were randomized for a double-blind cross-over trial receiving either selegiline 10 mg or placebo. Each period lasted 12 weeks. During a two week prestudy period the dose of levodopa was titrated to optimal levels. The disability was evaluated using the Columbia University Disability Scale (CUDS). The patients kept a daily diary to monitor closely the frequency and severity of their fluctuations and the side-effects of treatment. Their parkinsonian disability and all main symptoms improved significantly during selegiline treatment. The mean duration of action of a levodopa dose was significantly longer and there was significantly less daily end-of-dose and early morning akinesia during selegiline treatment. The side-effects were similar in both treatments. This double-blind study confirms the findings of earlier open studies that selegiline potentiates and prolongs the therapeutic effects of levodopa and thus its use is particularly beneficial in patients with end-of-dose type fluctuations in disability. PMID- 2515717 TI - Double-blind, crossover placebo controlled trial of selegiline in Parkinson's disease--an interim analysis. AB - The response to selegiline was assessed in ten (2 females, 8 males) idiopathic parkinsonian patients with the wearing off response. Selegiline was compared to placebo in each patient in a double blind crossover study carried out over ten months. After 16 weeks of therapy selegiline significantly prolonged response to levodopa, extending response to 3 hours (p less than 0.05) in most patients and to 4 hours (p less than 0.001) in some patients. Baseline scores (zero time: 12 hours after their previous dose of medication) were also significantly better after selegiline therapy (p less than 0.05). Selegiline did not improve peak response (1 hour after medication) to levodopa indicating that these patients were on optimum therapy prior to receiving selegiline. Adverse effects (nausea (2), dyskinesia (2), fear reaction (1) and postural dizziness (1] occurred in 5 patients during the trial. PMID- 2515718 TI - Combination of selegiline and controlled release levodopa in the treatment of fluctuations of clinical disability in parkinsonian patients. AB - Thirteen parkinsonians with a long duration of the disease and long-term dopa therapy, seven of them showing severe on-off oscillations and 6 an "end-of-dose impairment", were treated with a controlled release (HBS) preparation of L DOPA/benserazide for more than 3 years. Thereafter, selegiline was added in a progressively increasing dosage up to a maximum of 10 mg/day during 4 months, with the aim of a) further improving the long-term results and b) reducing the doses of the new formula of L-DOPA. A significant decrease of early morning parkinsonism and reduction of motor disability throughout the day were observed; "wearing-off" cases showed better results compared with those presenting "on-off" oscillations. A mean reduction of 20% in the doses of levodopa was achieved. Likewise, a mild reduction of dyskinesias and a mild-moderate enhancement of dystonias were recorded. Only one patient did not tolerate selegiline and two others received lower doses due to side-effects. Selegiline was capable of enhancing the antiparkinsonian effect of the new formula of L-DOPA, while allowing a reduction of the doses administered. It must also be emphasized that such improvement was achieved in complicated patients, most of whom showed some deterioration of response in the late stages of long-term sustained-release levodopa treatment. PMID- 2515719 TI - New approaches in the use of selegiline for the treatment of Parkinson's disease. AB - Selegiline hydrochloride (deprenyl) is a safe, useful adjuvant therapy in patients with Parkinson's disease treated with L-dopa. The optimum time for its introduction into the treatment regimen of a patient remains controversial. A multicentre long-term study being conducted by the Parkinson's Disease Research Group of the United Kingdom to attempt to answer whether selegiline improves the natural history of Parkinson's disease is discussed. In a separate study we have been unable to demonstrate that higher doses of selegiline (up to 40 mg a day) produce additional therapeutic benefit above the conventional dose of 10 mg a day in levodopa-treated patients with motor fluctuations. Preliminary data from a neuropsychological study is also presented which suggests that selegiline may have beneficial effects on the speed of psychomotor responses supporting the anecdotal clinical observations of increased mental energy and alacrity. PMID- 2515720 TI - Selegiline and levodopa in early or moderately advanced Parkinson's disease: a double-blind controlled short- and long-term study. AB - Selegiline 10 mg per day was compared to placebo as an adjunct to levodopa treatment in this double-blind study of early or moderately advanced Parkinson's disease. Thirty-eight patients completed an initial cross-over trial comprising two treatment periods, each of eight weeks, with a four weeks' wash-out period between them. Thirty of the patients continued in a long-term, double-blind parallel trial with a mean duration of 16 months (range 6-30 months). Selegiline treatment allowed a significant reduction of the necessary daily levodopa dose in both parts of the study and of the daily dosing frequency in the long-term investigation. In spite of this reduction of levodopa dose, an improvement was noted in tremor during the short-term selegiline periods. The side-effects were slight and related to dopamine effects and disappeared after reduction of levodopa-dose. The results support the use of selegiline as an early adjunctive treatment in Parkinson's disease. PMID- 2515721 TI - Selegiline in the treatment of Parkinson's disease--long term experience. AB - L-deprenyl (selegiline) has been reported as a safe effective adjunctive agent to levodopa in the control of Parkinson's symptoms, as well as a means of preventing the progressive nature of the disease process. In an ongoing study, now in its 12th year, L-deprenyl has been administered 1. as monotherapy or 2. in combination with levodopa, to previously untreated patients in the early phases of the disease; 3. added to an existing regimen of levodopa when optimal therapeutic results are not being obtained. This report reviews our experience in each of these three treatment categories. Results obtained to date, indicate that L-deprenyl administered alone does not prevent the occurrence of signs of Parkinson's disease. Its administration with levodopa, as initial therapy, allows for use of lower dosage and less side-effects of the latter agent. When L deprenyl is added to sub-optimal responders to levodopa, it attenuates fluctuating responses, particularly those of the 'end-of-dose' variety. PMID- 2515722 TI - Combination of a dopamine agonist, MAO-B inhibitor and levodopa--a new strategy in the treatment of early Parkinson's disease. AB - During 3 years' treatment of de novo parkinsonian patients with lisuride in combination with selegiline and levodopa the optimal therapeutic dose of levodopa was significantly lower than that when given alone or together with lisuride. The improvement in parkinsonian disability was equal in all these patient groups, but treatment with an early combination of lisuride and levodopa without or with selegiline resulted in significantly and equally reduced end-of-dose disturbances and dyskinesias than treatment with levodopa alone. This finding, together with the possible retardation of the progression of the disease with selegiline suggests that dopaminergic treatment in early Parkinson's disease should be initiated using a dopamine agonist such as lisuride in combination with selegiline and levodopa. PMID- 2515723 TI - Deprenyl and tocopherol antioxidative therapy of parkinsonism (DATATOP). Parkinson Study Group. AB - DATATOP is a double-blind, multi-center, placebo-controlled clinical trial aimed at slowing the decline of patients who are in the early stages of Parkinson's disease (PD). The specific aim is to determine whether or not chronic administration of deprenyl 10 mg per day and/or tocopherol 2000 IU per day to early, otherwise untreated PD patients will prolong the time until levodopa therapy is required to treat emerging disability. Deprenyl and tocopherol exert antioxidative effects through separate but complementary mechanisms of action. A 2 X 2 factorial design allocates eligible subjects to one of four treatment groups: 1) deprenyl alone, 2) tocopherol alone, 3) deprenyl plus tocopherol, or 4) placebo. Eligible subjects include early PD patients (illness duration less than 5 years and in stages I and II), aged 30 to 79, who are not taking or requiring any anti-PD medications. The major response variable is the time period from randomization until the blinded investigator judges levodopa necessary to treat emerging parkinsonian disability. Randomization is stratified to ensure that treatment assignments are balanced for each blinded investigator. Cerebrospinal fluid is sampled just prior to randomization and one month after washout of experimental medications in order to help distinguish between symptomatic and protective effects of interventions. Based on pilot studies it is estimated that approximately 85% of untreated PD patients will require levodopa within two years and a total sample size of 800 subjects will provide a 95% likelihood for detecting a 10% "survival" difference between experimental medications and placebo.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515724 TI - Selegiline as primary treatment in early phase Parkinson's disease--an interim report. AB - We are carrying out a double-blind parallel trial comparing the effect of selegiline monotherapy and placebo in de novo parkinsonian patients. Fifty-six patients (28 in both groups) are included in the trial. This interim analysis reports the results of the first 52 evaluable patients who have had at least one follow-up visit after entering the trial. The efficacy of treatment was assessed using the Columbia University Rating Scale, the North-Western University Disability Scale and the Webster Rating Scale and followed until the addition of levodopa therapy became necessary. The data were analysed at follow-up times of up to twelve months (34 patients evaluable at the end of the period). The overall disability scores of all the rating scales used were significantly smaller in the selegiline group than in the placebo group. Levodopa treatment had become necessary in 12 patients (46%) in the selegiline group and in 14 patients (54%) in the placebo group. The side-effects were mild and similar in both treatment groups. According to the present results selegiline monotherapy seems to have therapeutic efficacy in the early phase of Parkinson's disease. Whether selegiline is able to slow down the progression of Parkinson's disease needs further clarification. PMID- 2515725 TI - The pharmacology of selegiline ((-)deprenyl). New aspects. AB - Male rats were treated from the end of their 2nd year of life either with saline (1 ml/kg, s.c.) (n = 66) or with deprenyl (0.25 mg/kg, s.c.) (n = 66) three times a week until death. Whereas none of the two-year-old saline-treated rats displayed full scale sexual activity, this appeared in 64 out of 66 rats on deprenyl. The longest living rat in the saline-treated group lived 164 weeks. The average lifespan of the group was 147.05 +/- 0.56 weeks. The shortest living animal in the (-)deprenyl-treated group lived 171 weeks and the longest living rat died during the 226th week of its life. The average lifespan was 191.91 +/- 2.31 weeks. This is the first instance that a well-aimed medication prolonged lifespan of members of a species beyond their maximum age of death (182 weeks in the rat). A close relation between sexual activity and lifespan was detected. Male rats (n = 94) selected from an 8-month old population as sexually inactive ones were found to be miserable learners. This group was treated either with saline (1 ml/kg, s.c.) (n = 46) or with (-)deprenyl (0.25 mg/kg, s.c.) (n = 48) three times a week for 36 weeks. Their performance in the shuttle box during 5 consecutive days was tested before and after treatment. The total number of conditioned avoidance responses (CAR) which remained unchanged in the saline treated group (6.53 +/- 1.41 before and 5.98 +/- 1.15 after treatment) increased from 5.57 +/- 0.65 to 20.73 +/- 1.39 (p less than 0.001) in the (-)deprenyl treated group of rats. (-)Deprenyl-treatment (0.25-2 mg/kg, s.c., daily for 21 days) increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in the striatum of CFY rats, whereas clorgyline-treatment (0.1-1 mg/kg) inhibited it. PMID- 2515726 TI - Pharmacokinetics and metabolism of selegiline. AB - Selegiline is readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. It is distributed rapidly into the tissues, including the brain. It is the L-form of selegiline that is an active MAO-B inhibitor, the D-(+)-form being 25 times less active. Selegiline is metabolised into L-(-)-desmethylselegiline (DES), L-(-)-amphetamine (A) and L-(-)-methamphetamine (MA), mainly in the liver. We measured the steady state concentrations of the metabolites in the serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of patients with Parkinson's or Alzheimer's diseases who were on continuous selegiline therapy. The mean concentrations in serum and CSF were similar, and were not affected by the addition of levodopa. The mean concentrations of patients with Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease were 6.5 +/- 2.5 ng/ml for A, 14.7 +/- 6.5 ng/ml for MA and 0.9 +/- 0.7 ng/ml for DES. The metabolites of selegiline were excreted in urine, and the recovery as metabolites was 87%. Due to the stereospecificity and the low CSF concentrations of the (-)amphetamine metabolites during the therapy with 10 mg selegiline, these metabolites do not seem to contribute significantly to the clinical efficacy of selegiline. PMID- 2515727 TI - Fetal growth and fetal glucose and C-peptide levels in relation to the degree of anemia in fetuses affected by rhesus iso-immunization. AB - Fetal growth rate was determined by measuring the fetal biparietal diameter at 63 two-week time points during the second trimester in 14 patients with severe Rhesus isoimmunization. Growth rate was found to be related to the fetal hemoglobin concentration which was determined at the end of each 2-week period. Fetuses with a hemoglobin concentration of less than 30% of the normal value had a significantly decreased growth rate (p less than 0.01). These fetuses had also reduced C-peptide (p less than 0.05) and increased glucose levels (p less than 0.1) compared with less anemic fetuses. The physiological background to impaired fetal growth in cases of severe fetal anamia at Rhesus iso-immunization is discussed. PMID- 2515728 TI - Heterophilic antibodies against rabbit serum causing falsely elevated gonadotropin levels. AB - Two cases are presented in which previously acquired antibodies against rabbits in the patient's serum caused falsely elevated hormonal levels in radio-immuno assays (RIA) based on rabbit antibodies to follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). The erroneous results led to unnecessary operative intervention and inconvenience for the patients. PMID- 2515729 TI - Possible role of Streptococcus pyogenes in mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome. IX. Quantitation by ELISA of streptococcal pyrogenic exotoxin in the serum of MCLS patients. AB - In the present paper we describe the use of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay reinforced with an introduction of monoclonal antibody, for the detection and quantitation of streptococcal pyrogenic exotoxin (SPE) in the serum of patients with mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome (MCLS). The amount of SPE was usually at a high level, and its 100% incidence in patients' sera was proved whenever the assay was made on the day of admission, thereby showing a marked contrast to carefully matched control sera which failed to mediate any positive result. As for the change in detected amount of the toxin, a clear dichotomy was observed between the serum of gammaglobulin-treated patients and that of infants given aspirin; in the former the positive result turned to negative rapidly following the initiation of treatment coupled with a defervescence, while in the latter the reduction of SPE levels was scarcely monitored for as long as 17 days after the onset of illness. Quantitation of SPE might be an auxiliary test for the diagnosis of MCLS, because a considerable amount of SPE was assessed in a patient who developed characteristic huge coronary artery aneurysms following an illness which did not fulfill the diagnostic criteria. These findings support our speculation in relation to the certain role of S. pyogenes as an etiological agent for MCLS. The possible mechanisms of gammaglobulin treatment in reducing the prevalence of cardiovascular lesions and the duration of systemic inflammation are discussed. PMID- 2515730 TI - B-cell function in Kawasaki disease and the effect of high-dose gamma-globulin therapy. AB - We studied in vitro B-cell function in Kawasaki disease (KD). By plaque-forming assay, IgG-, IgA- and IgM-secreting cells in the first week of KD were markedly increased, and recovered to a normal level in the second week in many cases. Lymphocyte blast formation with Staphylococcus aureus Cowan I (SAC), a B-cell specific mitogen, was suppressed in the acute phase, and recovered to a normal level in the convalescent phase. By flow cytometry, HLA-DR- and HLA-DQ-positive cells were increased in the acute phase of KD. CD3- and CD4-positive cells were also decreased. CD8-positive cells showed no significant change. In five patients, CD4-positive cells with HLA-DR positivity neither increased in the acute phase nor changed during the course of illness. From our results, it can be considered that pathogenic microorganisms or toxins activate B cells directly in KD without the association of T cells. We also studied the effect of high-dose gamma-globulin therapy on B-cell function in KD. However, the results indicated that this form of therapy had no significant effect on B-cell functions. PMID- 2515731 TI - High-dose immunoglobulin for juvenile myasthenia gravis. AB - A four-year-old girl with the ocular type of myasthenia gravis was effectively treated with intravenous high dose human immunoglobulin. Since conventional anti choline-esterase drugs failed to induce a satisfactory outcome and the patient continued to suffer from amblyopia, high-dose immunoglobulin was tried according to the method of Gados. Subsequently, she became asymptomatic and her anti acetylcholine-receptor antibody titer decreased gradually to normal. Currently, she is six years old and continues to be free from complaints and on no medication. PMID- 2515732 TI - Insulin secretion in childhood obesity. AB - In 132 severely obese children (72 boys and 60 girls) who underwent institutional therapy, oral glucose tolerance tests were carried out on admission, and these children were divided into groups with normal and high insulin levels, in terms of the sigma IRI values obtained, on the basis of the reference value + 2SD calculated by Maruhama et al. From these children, those who had diabetes mellitus (DM) and those in whom DM was suspected were distinguished according to the diagnostic criteria of USPHS (Drash et al). The insulin levels were normal in 58 children and high in 64. Ten children were found to have DM, and 19 were suspected to have DM. Metabolism of the glucose load occurred at both normal and high insulin levels in some children. There was also a group of children in whom glucose metabolism was incomplete at high insulin levels and a group of children in whom glucose metabolism was not possible even at high insulin levels, showing an obvious DM reaction. These findings suggest that there is a difference in the sensitivity of the insulin receptors in these children. Age, severe obesity and a family history of DM were considered to be risk factors for DM. Although there was a moderate, positive correlation between sigma IRI and the obesity index and between sigma IRI and age, it seems that the level of insulin secretion varies considerably in obese children. PMID- 2515734 TI - Intravenous flunitrazepam for status epilepticus. AB - Flunitrazepam (FZP) was administered intravenously, with success, to two patients with status epilepticus. Case 1 was a patient with a tonic-clonic status epilepticus. Intravenous phenytoin had no effect. Case 2 had minor status epilepticus. With the intravenous administration of FZP, diluted 1:10 with distilled water at a dose of 0.03 mg/kg at a slow rate, both patients were relieved of the status epilepticus. Unlike diazepam, FZP neither looks cloudy when diluted with distilled water nor causes angialgia. No disturbances in circulation or respiration occurred. Considering that FZP has a strong anticonvulsant action on status epilepticus, it can be expected to be a useful therapeutic agent for status epilepticus in infants and children. PMID- 2515733 TI - Supplementary thyroxine therapy in patients with hypothyroidism induced by long term anticonvulsant therapy. AB - Of 287 patients under long-term therapy with anticonvulsants, 24 with low serum thyroxine and free thyroxine concentrations were prescribed supplementary thyroxine in the present study. In addition, the basal metabolic rate (BMR) was measured in 13 out of 24 patients and in eight of them it was low (under -15%). Serum thyroid hormone concentrations improved after administration of thyroxine. However, improvement of the BMR was not obtained after one month of supplementary therapy. EEG after administration showed an increase in the power spectra of the occipital alpha 2 band (10.0-12.8 Hz) and beta 1 band (13.0-19.8 Hz), and a decrease in that of the theta band (4.0-7.8 Hz). The interpeak latency from wave I to wave V in the ABR was normalized after administration. These results suggest that supplementary therapy with thyroxine may be necessary in patients with hypothyroidism induced by anticonvulsants. PMID- 2515735 TI - Serum C-reactive protein in the early diagnosis of neonatal septicemia and bacterial meningitis. AB - The usefulness of serum C-reactive protein (CRP) in the early detection of neonatal infection was studied using a special laser nephelometric apparatus (CRP 1), by which CRP concentrations could be quickly determined in the nursery, with only a small amount of serum (20 microL). Initial serum CRP concentrations of samples obtained from 90 infants suspected to have sepsis and/or meningitis were evaluated. Of the 90 infants, 25 showed culture-proven septicemia and/or bacterial meningitis, while 18 were considered to be infectious based on clinical signs and positive sepsis work-up even though cultures were negative. 47 infants had negative cultures and sepsis work-up and showed a favorable clinical courses. Statistical analysis for the evaluation of serum CRP at the level of one mg/dL was performed. False negative CRP was demonstrated in seven of 25 infants with culture-proven sepsis and/or meningitis (28%) and in 4 of 18 infants with other infections (22%). On the other hand, seven of 47 (15%) non-infected infants showed false positive results. The specificity and sensitivity of serum CRP determination were 85% and 74%, respectively, for all patients, and 85% and 72%, respectively, for patients with sepsis and/or meningitis. The sensitivity varied with the pathogens. We conclude that, while the initial CRP values alone are unsatisfactory for deciding the need for antibiotic therapy, CRP is useful in the early detection of neonatal infections, and its measurement by this new equipment should available in the nursery. PMID- 2515736 TI - Automated exchange transfusion and exchange rate. AB - An automated blood exchange transfusion (BET) with a two-site technique has been devised by Goldmann et al and by us, using an infusion pump. With this method, we successfully performed exchange transfusions 189 times in the past four years on 110 infants with birth weights ranging from 530 g to 4,000 g. The exchange rate by the automated method was compared with the rate by Diamond's method. Serum bilirubin (SB) levels before and after BET and the maximal SB rebound within 24 hours after BET were: 21.6 +/- 2.4, 11.5 +/- 2.2, and 15.0 +/- 1.5 mg/dl in the automated method, and 22.0 +/- 2.9, 11.2 +/- 2.5, and 17.7 +/- 3.2 mg/dl in Diamond's method, respectively. The result showed that the maximal rebound of the SB level within 24 hours after BET was significantly lower in the automated method than in Diamond's method (p less than 0.01), though SB levels before and after BET were not significantly different between the two methods. The exchange rate was also measured by means of staining the fetal red cells (F cells) both in the automated method and in Diamond's method, and comparing them. The exchange rate of F cells in Diamond's method went down along the theoretical exchange curve proposed by Diamond, while the rate in the automated method was significantly better than in Diamond's, especially in the early stage of BET (p less than 0.01). We believe that the use of this automated method may give better results than Diamond's method in the rate of exchange, because this method is performed with a two-site technique using a peripheral artery and vein. PMID- 2515737 TI - A simplified Master's two-step test for preschool children. AB - To investigate the usefulness of a simplified Master's two step test (s-MTT) for preschool children aged 4-6, s-MTT was carried out in our pediatric cardiology clinic using a new stair and connector for joining the leads from each child to the ECG machine. The subjects were 21 children with Kawasaki disease without coronary involvement and four children with arrhythmias. The treadmill exercise test (TET) was done on the same day to compare the exercise load of s-MTT with that of TET. Oxygen uptake during s-MTT was also examined using another group consisting of eight outpatients. There were no differences in indices such as peak heart rate (HR), HR immediately after exercise, and performance ratio between the outpatients in this study and kindergarteners in the preliminary report. The proportions of peak HR and HR immediately after exercise in s-MTT to those in TET were 91.1 +/- 7.9 (mean +/- SD)% and 91.1 +/- 8.6%, respectively. The average oxygen uptake of the eight outpatients in s-MTT was 23.2 +/- 4.1 ml/min/kg. These studies suggest that the simplified MTT is useful as a screening test, because it can be done for all children aged 4-6 in any laboratory. PMID- 2515739 TI - Acromesomelic dysplasia in a father and son: autosomal dominant inheritance. AB - A father and son with typical acromesomelic dysplasia are reported, with the father more severely affected than the son. The disease was thus apparently transmitted in an autosomal dominant fashion. This is at variance with the autosomal recessive mode of inheritance assumed from hitherto reported families. PMID- 2515738 TI - Five cases of autoimmune neutropenia in infancy or early childhood. AB - Five cases of chronic neutropenia which developed mainly in infancy were investigated and followed up for 5 to 34 months. Antineutrophil antibody levels were assayed by the direct and indirect immunofluorescence methods using flow cytometry. Selective neutropenia, myeloid hyperplasia and/or maturation arrest of myeloid series cells in the bone marrow, and the demonstration of antineutrophil antibody in the sera and on autologous neutrophils, indicated that the neutropenias involved were autoimmune in nature. Two cases exhibited spontaneous recovery 12 and 14 months respectively after the diagnosis, with concomitant marked decreases in antineutrophil antibody levels. Our study of these five cases supports the view that this disorder may be a clinical entity with a relatively consistent clinical presentation and course. Within this framework of the disorder, however, a clear heterogeneity in clinical presentation and course was also noted in our cases. Clinical severity in this disorder may be enhanced by arrested maturation of myeloid series cell in the bone marrow. PMID- 2515741 TI - A case of multiple infantile fibromatosis of unclassified type. AB - We report an unusual case of fibromatous disease in infancy, diagnosed as a multiple infantile fibromatosis of unclassified type. Histologically, the tumors are composed of a mixture of fibrous component and mature adipose tissue. The clinical manifestations resemble those of infantile myofibromatosis. The symptoms, including size and number of tumors, have not been progressive for one year. PMID- 2515740 TI - Airway obstruction in a child with esophageal achalasia. AB - A 13-year-old Japanese boy who had respiratory symptoms and had been treated as a case of chronic bronchitis was found by us to have esophageal achalasia. He had complained of cough for one year and a half, and pulmonary function studies showed severe airway obstruction. The chest radiogram showed the trachea compressed by the dilated esophagus. After operation, the symptoms disappeared and marked improvement was found in the flow-volume curve. Esophageal achalasia should be considered as one of the differential diagnoses of airway obstructive disease. PMID- 2515742 TI - Bacterial meningitis caused by Veillonella parvula. AB - A three-year-old girl injured her right eyelid with a toothbrush. The wound was sutured. Swelling of the eyelid, high fever and vomiting developed in spite of oral antibiotics for seven days. The findings of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were white blood cells (WBC) 26,368/mm3 (90% polymorphs), protein 127 mg/dl, and sugar 0 mg/dl. Although Gram negative organisms were seen on the smear, aerobic culture was sterile. Later culture of CSF on admission grew anaerobic bacteria: Veillonella parvula. Intravenous administration of penicillins with cefotaxime (CTX), or of fosfomycin (FOM) were ineffective. Chloramphenicol (CP) cured the patient without neurological sequelae. There were no abnormal findings on brain CT scan. This is the first report of Veillonella meningitis. V. parvula appeared to have invaded the CSF from the abscess of the eyelid. It is necessary to consider anaerobic meningitis when there is a preceding pyogenic infection in the head. PMID- 2515743 TI - A report of a case with pure red cell aplasia induced by sodium valproate. AB - A 5-year-old girl developed pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) during sodium valproate (VPA) administration. Only four cases of VPA induced PRCA have been reported in the literature. Furthermore no precise report concerning the underlying mechanisms is available. Using a system for the clonal growth of autologous bone marrow committed erythroid stem cells (CFU-E, BFU-E) VPA itself was not inhibitory for colony formation at a physiological concentration. Patient's serum and peripheral mononuclear cells collected at admission showed no inhibitory effects on erythroid progenitor cell growth. Rapid recovery from PRCA was observed after discontinuation of VPA, without immunosuppressive therapy. Our observation suggests that VPA may induce PRCA through the inhibitory effect beyond the differentiation stage of BFU-E and CFU-E in some cases. PMID- 2515745 TI - [The effects of pyrrole aldehydephenyl semicarbazone on experimental gastric peptic ulcer models in rats]. AB - Pyrrole aldehydephenyl semicarbazone was shown to be an effective anti-ulcer agent in five experimental models in rats, namely, the indomethacin-induced, acetic acid-induced, pyloric ligation-induced and 0.6 mol HCl, absolute alcohol induced ulcers, at doses of 40-100 mg/kg. Its anti-ulcer activity and characteristics are similar to those of furazolidone. Its oral acute toxicity in mouse is much lower than furazolidone. This compound exhibited mild inhibitory effects on gastric pepsin secretion, caused increases in hexosamine level and decreases of DNA content in gastric juice. It showed no influence on gastric acid secretion and was considered to have "cytoprotective action" on the gastric mucosa. However, this compound was found to be ineffective against the stress restraint gastric ulcer model. PMID- 2515744 TI - Localization of type III procollagen mRNA in areas of liver fibrosis by in situ hybridization. AB - Localization of type III procollagen mRNA in human liver was studied by in situ hybridization using human alpha 1(III) procollagen cDNA. Frozen and paraformaldehyde-fixed sections of biopsied human liver from patients with chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis were examined using the digoxigenin-labeled cDNA probe. Localization of the type III procollagen mRNA was demonstrated not only in the cytoplasm of mesenchymal cells but also in a large number of hepatocytes, in proportion to the extent of fibrosis. These results suggest that hepatocytes play an important role in fibrogenesis in the liver. PMID- 2515746 TI - [Influence of total parenteral nutrition on amikacin pharmacokinetics]. AB - Six patients under total parenteral nutrition (TPN) and eight control patients received 200 mg of amikacin by iv infusion in 0.5 h. Amikacin concentrations of serum and urine were determined by fluorescence polarization immunoassay. At 6 h after the beginning of administration, the amikacin level in serum of TPN group (2.3 +/- 0.8 micrograms/ml) was significantly higher than control (1.3 +/- 0.8 microgram/ml). There was no significant difference between the 24-h urine output of 2 groups. Pharmacokinetic calculations were based on a two-compartment open system model. The T1/2 beta and apparent volumes of distribution (Vc, Vdss, V2) of TPN group were significantly greater than those of control group. The body clearance of amikacin in TPN group was slower than control. It is suggested that serum amikacin concentrations should be monitored in clinical TPN patients to prevent toxic reactions. PMID- 2515747 TI - [Scavenging effect of EDTA-fluorocarbon microspheres on 210lead]. AB - EDTA-fluorocarbon microspheres (EDTAFM), calcium disodium ethylene diaminetetraacetate (CaNa2EDTA), calcium- or zinc-diethylene triamine pentaacetate (Ca- or Zn-DTPA) were investigated for their ability to treat experimental lead intoxication in mice. The 48 ICR mice were divided into six groups. Group I = no treatment; The other groups were injected with single ip doses of 210Pb (10 mg Pb2+ +555 kBq/kg). After 24 h they were injected in the tail vein with the chelating agents (20 mg/kg) or an equal volume of 10% glucose (10 mg/kg). Each mouse was housed in one metabolic cage, and urine was collected daily for 3 d. After 3 d, the mice were sacrificed for comparison of lead distribution within the liver, kidney, femur and the entire carcass as measured by 0.047 Mev gamma emission from 210Pb. The results reveal that injection of EDTA FM to lead poisoned mice pretreated with 210Pb was more effective than Zn- or Ca DTPA and CaNa2EDTA in reducing the lead induced inhibition in the activity of blood ALAD, and that it increased the excretion of 210Pb into the urine. The hepatic, renal and femur 210Pb contents after treatment with EDTAFM were much more decreased than Zn- or Ca-DTPA and CaNa2-EDTA. The order of effectiveness was EDTAFM greater than Zn-DTPA greater than Ca-DTPA greater than CaNa2-EDTA. PMID- 2515748 TI - [Relationship between the effects of praziquantel on mice and rabbits with different intensities of Schistosoma japonicum infection and humoral immunity levels of the host]. AB - Rabbits were infected with 48-52, 198-202 and 498-502 cercariae of Schistosoma japonicum and treated ig with single doses of praziquantel (40 mg/kg) 4 and 8 wk post infection. The worm reduction rates of the 8 wk groups were 87.9, 92.2 and 97%, respectively. These values were significantly higher than 48.5, 52.3 and 58.6% for the corresponding 4 wk groups. The serum antibody titres of the 8 wk post infection rabbits were apparently higher than those of the 4 wk rabbits. Meanwhile, for the same duration of infection, the specific antibody levels in the heavy worm burden groups were also higher than those in the light worm burden groups. The results obtained in the mice infected with S. japonicum at different intensities and treated ig with single doses of praziquantel at 300 mg/kg at different durations were similar to the results in the rabbits. The correlation between efficacy and specific antibody level was confirmed by calculating the coefficient of correlation with r values of 0.454-0.983 (P less than 0.01). The results also indicated that heavy infections with S. japonicum were still more responsive to praziquantel treatment. In addition, the effect of praziquantel on worms was closely related to the specific antibody response in the host. PMID- 2515749 TI - Effects of propranolol, nalorphine and haloperidol on the breathing and on the metabolism of PGI2 and TXA2 of normotensive and spontaneously hypertensive rats. AB - The influence of propranolol, nalorphine and haloperidol on the breathing pattern and on the blood levels of cyclooxygenase products of anaesthetized spontaneously breathing normotensive Wistar rats (WR) and of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) were investigated. The respiratory rate was higher and the effective lung resistance was smaller in the SHR than in the WR. Breathing frequency decreased after nalorphine in both groups, while only in SHR after haloperidol. Propranolol augmented the dynamic lung resistance in both groups. The blood 6-keto-PGF1 alpha level was higher and the TXB2 level was lower in the SHR than in the WR. The central inspiratory activity as well as the levels of peripherally acting substances involved in the regulation of respiration and in the control of bronchial smooth muscle tone are different in the SHR and WR. PMID- 2515750 TI - Analysis of reabsorbate concentrations in the proximal tubules of dog kidneys during osmotic diuresis. AB - To examine to what extent the reabsorbate concentrations, calculated as the flux ratios between solutes and water, represent the fluid composition in the lateral intercellular space (LIS) in the proximal tubules, reabsorption was stimulated by elevating PCO2 from 5 to 13 kPa before and during infusion of mannitol to a plasma concentration of 70 mM in volume-expanded dogs receiving ethacrynic acid. The reabsorbate concentration of NaHCO3 increased by 50 mM during mannitol infusion. The real concentration of NaHCO3 in LIS could not, however, be elevated by this amount, since the driving forces for fluid reabsorption then would have increased during osmotic diuresis due to diffusion of mannitol into LIS from plasma. A model analysis of diffusion in LIS showed that transcellular transport can only lead to trivial increases of LIS concentrations compared to plasma, whereas diffusion across tight junctions can increase LIS concentrations by several mM. NaCl diffusion and coupled transcellular water transport may therefore represent a significant contribution to total bicarbonate-dependent NaCl and water reabsorption in the proximal tubules. PMID- 2515751 TI - Low oxygen cost of carbonic anhydrase-dependent sodium reabsorption in the dog kidney. AB - To examine the oxygen requirement of carbonic anhydrase-dependent sodium reabsorption in the proximal tubule, 18 anaesthetized dogs were studied under conditions of saturated distal NaCl reabsorption; the latter was accomplished by volume expansion (all groups) combined with infusion of loop diuretics (groups 1 and 3). Acetazolamide reduced HCO3- reabsorption by 602 +/- 32 mumol min-1 (55%, group 1) and by 777 +/- 103 mumol min-1 (66%, group 2). This was accompanied with a reduction in sodium reabsorption and oxygen consumption in a molar delta Na/delta O2 ratio of about 45 in both groups of dogs. The delta HCO3/delta O2 ratio averaged 16 +/- 1, which was not significantly different from the theoretical value of 18 expected for transcellular sodium transport by Na+, K+ ATPase. Mannitol (group 3) reduced NaCl reabsorption by 37 +/- 2% without affecting NaHCO3 reabsorption or oxygen consumption significantly. We conclude that carbonic anhydrase-dependent NaCl reabsorption in the proximal tubules is passive, and that NaHCO3 reabsorption is the only important active sodium transport which is sensitive to inhibition of carbonic anhydrase. PMID- 2515752 TI - Growth hormone-releasing factor induces a biphasic modulation of K+ permeability in perfused cultured rat somatotrophs. AB - Growth hormone-releasing factor (GRF) induced a biphasic response in 86Rb outflow in rat somatotrophs. An early inhibition was observed at all GRF concentrations tested, I pM-10 nM, and this was followed by a later increase. The increase in 86Rb outflow rate came earlier at high GRF concentrations and GRF had a dose related effect on the magnitude of the increase. The effects of GRF on 86Rb outflow were observed also in the absence of extracellular calcium. Peak growth hormone release preceded peak 86Rb outflow rate. The timing of the effects of GRF on potassium outflow is consistent with the hypothesis that reduced potassium outflow is involved in somatotroph depolarization leading to increased exocytosis, followed by a later increase in potassium outflow leading to repolarization. PMID- 2515754 TI - Personality characteristics and epilepsy. AB - Patients with a long history of temporal lobe epilepsy or primary generalized epilepsy entered a questionnaire study of personality characteristics, based on a modification of the Bear-Fedio inventory for temporal lobe behavioural syndrome. Psoriasis patients and healthy volunteers served as controls. Four clinical meaningful dimensions of included personality traits were identified: ixoide, ideational, obsessive-compulsive and affective features. Analyses based on the Rasch model approved of all dimensions except for affective features. The epilepsy group obtained the highest scores on all 3 dimensions, healthy volunteers the lowest, while the psoriasis group repeatedly held an intermediate position in all sets of assessment (subjects, interviewers and relatives). A logistic regression analysis showed ixoide features being most important when the entire epilepsy group was compared with other study groups, while the dimension ideational features was significant when the temporal lobe epilepsy group was entered as target group and opposed to primary generalized epilepsy. The intermediate position of the psoriasis group, however, suggests that in addition to the presence of a cerebral dysfunction in the epilepsy group, the mere presence of a chronic disorder with potential social stigmatization influences personality. PMID- 2515753 TI - Two regimens of lithium prophylaxis and renal function. AB - Two regimens of lithium prophylaxis with different pharmacokinetic characteristics were compared under double-blind conditions in 25 bipolar patients in remission already stabilized on lithium, to determine the relative effects of each regimen on renal function. Once-daily lithium carbonate (Priadal), which gives a peak lithium plasma level 2-3 h post-administration with a low level 24 h later, was compared with twice-daily lithium citrate (Litarex), which maintains a steadier 24 h plasma level. Patients were allocated randomly to one of the 2 regimens. They were seen monthly for clinical ratings over the course of 12 months. A comprehensive battery of renal function tests was undertaken at the start of the trial, between 6-9 months after the start and again after 1 year. No significant differences were observed in clinical outcome, side effects or renal function between the 2 regimens. PMID- 2515756 TI - [A clinical case of chronic thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura]. AB - This is a TTP report of the case of a 29 year old female who entered into apparent complete clinical remission, after EP with fresh frozen plasma and corticotherapy. Unusual large plasma Factor VIII: vWF by two-dimensional Immunoelectrophoresis is the biological change described by Moake and Sufficient in itself to confirm the chronic TTP diagnosis. PMID- 2515755 TI - [Von Recklinghausen neurofibromatosis and malignant pheochromocytoma: presentation of 3 cases]. AB - Neurofibromatosis may involve every organ. Manifestations vary greatly and different kind of neoplasia may be associated with excessive frequency; it's the case of pheochromocytoma that, as a benign tumor, coexists in 10%. Description of coexistency as a malignant tumor is a rarity; therefore, we think it's interesting to publish our experience. Nevertheless the association of Von Recklinghausen's disease with hypertension is not always dependent of that kind of association. PMID- 2515757 TI - Recent developments in enzyme and microbial biotechnology--strategies in bioprocess design. AB - Microorganisms have been used traditionally by industry as sources of natural products, or as sources of enzymes capable of mediating specific chemical transformations. This situation has changed radically in recent years, a time during which we have seen a dramatic increase in the number and range of potential biotechnological applications of enzymes and their genetically engineered variants. An increasing number of enzymes, receptors and other proteins have now been structurally characterized, and their genes isolated as a basis for producing recombinant proteins for genetic analysis of their structure and function. These innovations have necessitated development of associated technologies for large-scale production of proteins in bioreactors, appropriate strategies for quality control, and new analytical tools for structural characterization of recombinant gene products. Some recombinant proteins are already in an advanced stage of development for use either as new-generation therapeutics, as target molecules for "intelligent" drug screening, or as biological components of biosensors. As the predictive power of protein model building improves, the diversity of applications of such technology will increase further as it becomes feasible to generate totally synthetic proteins with specifically-tailored properties. PMID- 2515758 TI - Effect of total and partial pressure (oxygen and carbon dioxide) on aerobic microbial processes. AB - In industrial bioreactors, levels and gradients of total and partial pressures are considerably higher than on the laboratory scale. In the relevant range (in general up to 2 or 3 bar, maximum approx. 10 bar), effects of total pressure on aerobic cultures are negligibly small. CO2 partial pressures of more than approx. 100 mbar may have inhibitory effects on aerobic cultures. Growth of aerobic cultures can be enhanced by O2 partial pressures higher than 210 mbar (corresponding to air at 1 bar), if oxygen transfer is limited. In many cases, however, increased O2 partial pressure (higher than approx. 1 bar) is toxic to aerobic cultures and inhibits microbial growth and product formation. Stepwise and cyclic variations of O2 partial pressure may have positive or negative effects, depending on strain of microorganism, culturing conditions, and range of dissolved oxygen concentration. Knowledge of these effects is required in process development and bioreactor scale-up. PMID- 2515759 TI - Protein purification. AB - This monograph summarizes recent developments in the purification and analysis of natural and recombinant proteins. The basic strategies employed in protein purification are reviewed with regards to the characteristics of the protein of interest that may aid its isolation, choice of the starting material, and use of denaturants. Preparation of cell-free extracts followed by bulk precipitation and/or phase partition constitute the initial steps of many purification schemes. Chromatographic methods (size exclusion, ion exchange, hydroxylapatite, reversed phase, hydrophobic interaction and affinity based) utilizing either traditional, low pressure or high-performance liquid chromatography instrumentation are discussed. Electrophoretic techniques used to analyze the homogeneity of the protein product include SDS-PAGE, isotachophoresis, IEF and two dimensional gel electrophoresis. PMID- 2515760 TI - Roles of protein kinase C isozymes in cellular regulation. PMID- 2515761 TI - Effect of multiple phosphorylations on movement of smooth muscle and cytoplasmic myosin. PMID- 2515762 TI - Calbindin-D28 in mammalian brain, retina, and endocrine pancreas: immunohistochemical comparison with calretinin. AB - Calbindin 28K and calretinin are very similar calcium binding proteins which are both present in the central nervous system (CNS). They respectively bind 4 and 5 Ca++ ions. We have compared by immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization their localisation in the brain and the retina. The two proteins are generally expressed in different neurons with a few neurons containing both calcium binding proteins. Calbindin 28K is also present in the endocrine system. We have examined the cellular distribution of calbindin in the pancreatic endocrine cells of chick, rat and human and found variable distribution among the different endocrine cell types. We also describe the presence of calbindin in RINm5F cells, an insulin-producing tumor cell line derived from a radiation-induced rat insulinoma. PMID- 2515763 TI - [A case of renal cancer complicated with acute hypercalcemia and acute pancreatitis]. AB - A 55-year-old man who had liver metastasis after undergoing surgery for renal cancer was hospitalized immediately on May 4, 1987 with complaints of general malaise, epigastric pain, nausea and vomiting. Because of abnormally high levels of blood calcium 15.6 mg/dl and serum amylase 2,069 IU/l, the case was diagnosed as hypercalcemic crisis and acute pancreatitis. Following recovery from the critical stage with administration of elcatonin and FOY, therapy for cancer initiated. We report the clinical course of this patient and discuss about hypercalcemia and acute pancreatitis as cases of oncologic emergency. PMID- 2515764 TI - [Female urethral diverticulum calculi: a case report]. AB - A case of urethral diverticulum with calculus in a 53-year-old woman is reported. She was admitted to Isahaya General Hospital complaining of a localized swelling in the external genitalia. We found a urethral diverticular calculi by urethrography. Urethral diverticulectomy was carried out without any complications. The removed stones were in 2 pieces and they were composed of calcium phosphate and ammonium urate. PMID- 2515765 TI - [Comparative analysis of fertile and infertile cycles during stimulation of ovulation with pergonal in patients with hypo- gonadotropic amenorrhea]. AB - A comparative assessment of variations in sex hormone levels and echographic parameters of fertile and infertile cycles was carried out in patients with gonadotrophic deficiency during pergonal induction of the ovulation. It was demonstrated that 83% of the infertile cycles were the first stimulation cycles. Basic differences were identified in the variation of sex hormone levels and echographic parameters of target organs between the fertile and infertile cycles. It is concluded that the first ovulation-induction course should be regarded as a preventive or preparatory one, where an optimum drug dosage is adjusted while the gonads and target organs are getting ready for the ovulation. PMID- 2515766 TI - [Clinico-hormonal characteristics of patients with hypogonadotropic amenorrhea]. AB - Clinical examinations including morphometry, mammography, x-ray examination of the cranium, ultrasonic examination of the small pelvic organs help detect the patients with hypogonadotropic amenorrhea and predict the efficacy of ovulation induction with menopausal gonadotropin. Women with a positive reaction to administration of progesterone and LH releasing factor make up the group most promising in respect of ovulation induction with menopausal gonadotropin. PMID- 2515767 TI - [Experience with the treatment of infertility]. AB - Pathogenetic treatment policy was determined on the basis of the research data obtained from 1210 patients exposed to laparoscopy in combination with chromosalpingoscopy and biopsy of the ovary. The combined treatment resulted in the recovery of reproductive function in 52 per cent of the patients. PMID- 2515768 TI - [Value of roentgenography of the bones of the skull vault and the sella turcica for the prognosis of the effectiveness of the treatment of infertility in patients with hyperandrogenia]. AB - Thorough clinical and roentgenological examinations of the skull were conducted in 83 infertile patients with hyperandrogenism. The parameters of their health status evidenced various degrees of androgenism. The roentgenological picture of their skull and Turkish saddle was significantly different from the normal one. A small and round-shaped pattern of the Turkish saddle was significantly more often documented in the hyperandrogenic females whose infertility treatment was a failure. These prognostic criteria should be considered when the practicability of the treatment for this pattern of infertility is discussed. PMID- 2515769 TI - Increased deposition of types III and V collagen in neurofibroma tissue from patients with von Recklinghausen disease. AB - Collagen components in neurofibroma tissue from patients with von Recklinghausen disease were investigated, in comparison with those in normal skin and peripheral nerve tissue. Biochemical analysis of collagen isolated from the tissues by limited pepsin digestion indicated that the neurofibroma tissue contained type I collagen as the major constituent and increased amounts of types III and V collagen. The relative ratios of alpha 1(III)/alpha 1(I) and alpha 1(V) + alpha 2(V)/alpha 1(I) in the tissue were 0.87-0.92 and 0.16-0.17, respectively, while in normal skin, these ratios were 0.36-0.45 and less than 0.024, respectively. Amino acid analysis and circular dichroism studies of types I, III and V collagen purified from the tissue showed that these collagens were essentially the same as the corresponding types of collagen isolated from fetal human skin and placenta. The increased deposition of types III and V collagen suggested that alternation of collagen metabolism had occurred in the neurofibroma tissue. PMID- 2515770 TI - Inadvertent infusion of parenteral nutrition via the innominate artery. PMID- 2515771 TI - Discerning rebreathing during anaesthesia. PMID- 2515772 TI - Is nitrous oxide next. PMID- 2515773 TI - The effect of fluoride on the patterns of adherence of osteoclasts cultured on and resorbing dentine: a 3-D assessment of vinculin-labelled cells using confocal optical microscopy. AB - Osteoclasts were isolated mechanically from chick long bones and cultured on dentine for three days in MEM/10% FCS with or without 1 mg/l NaF, (near to therapeutic ranges for serum fluoride levels) or 15 mg/l NaF (which has been found to reduce the volume:plan-area ratios of resorption pits in vitro). The distribution of close contacts with the substratum was determined by immunolabelling of vinculin and confocal fluorescence microscopy. Four characteristic patterns of contacts were observed: infilled discs, rings, crescents and patches: these reflect the progress of the cell in the process of pit formation. Cell-substratum adherence was more extensive than previously reported with contacts often extending down the sides of pits and sometimes across the floor. This distribution explains the curved shape of unilocular pits and the kidney-shaped extensions of multilocular pits. The peripheral creeping of the contact region was more marked in the osteoclasts of the 15 mg/l NaF cultures, and these cultures showed a decrease in pit depth and inhibition of osteoclastic movement in the presence of fluoride. PMID- 2515774 TI - Demonstration of two allelic forms of the bovine T cell antigen Bo5 (CD5) and studies of their inheritance. AB - Two monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), CC17 and IL-A67, which are specific for the bovine equivalent of the CD5 antigen, Bo5, were each found to react with the cells of some animals but not others. The cattle tested were all positive for one or both of the mAbs, but the level of expression on cells expressing both determinants was slightly lower than that on cells expressing either of the determinants on their own. Both mAbs precipitated an antigen of 67 kD. However, sequential immunoprecipitation experiments with cells that reacted with both mAbs demonstrated that the determinants are present on two different sets of molecules. These findings suggested that the mAbs recognize two co-dominantly expressed allelic forms of Bo5. This was confirmed in family studies, with groups of full- and half-sibling offspring of sires and dams of defined phenotypes. These experiments also showed that the gene encoding the Bo5 antigen is not linked to the major histocompatibility complex (MHC). The frequencies of the two alleles, which have been designated Bo5.1 and Bo5.2, in the cattle populations tested were 100% and 0%, respectively, in Bos taurus, and 10% and 90%, respectively, in Bos indicus. PMID- 2515775 TI - Partial nucleotide sequence of a bovine major histocompatibility class II DR beta like gene. AB - A genomic clone containing a bovine DR beta-like gene, BoDR beta II, was isolated from a bovine genomic library and characterized by restriction enzyme mapping and nucleotide sequencing of exon regions. Alignment of this sequence with the human DR beta cDNA sequence allowed identification of exon/intron boundaries. The clone contains a 13.3-kilobase (kb) insert, and includes 1.3 kb 5' of the beta 1 exon and 6.7 kb 3' of the transmembrane (TM) exon. Open reading frames were present in the BoDR beta exons sequenced. Nucleotide identities of the bovine beta 1, beta 2 and TM exons with the corresponding human DR beta exons were 73, 91 and 83%, respectively. Nucleotide identities of these exons with those of a previously described bovine DR beta-like pseudogene, BoDR beta I, were 69, 95 and 81%, respectively. Although a limited amount of sequence data was obtained for the intron regions, a 71% identity was found within a 514-nucleotide region immediately 3' to the beta 2 exons in BoDR beta I and BoDR beta II. A series of GT residues followed by a longer series of GA residues began about 35 nucleotides 3' of the beta 1 exon in both BoDR beta I and BoDR beta II. PMID- 2515776 TI - Genetic and other effects on bacterial phagocytosis and killing by cultured peripheral blood monocytes of SLA-defined miniature pigs. AB - The influence of miniature swine major histocompatibility complex genes (SLA) upon phagocytic and bactericidal activities of peripheral blood monocytes against Salmonella typhimurium and Staphylococcus aureus was measured in vitro using cultured cells and bacterial/enzyme-dependent tetrazolium dye (MTT) reduction. Haplotype significantly influenced uptake and killing of each bacterium by monocytes of 4- and 8-week-old pigs. Cells from 4-week-old SLA ad and aa pigs were significantly better than all others at phagocytizing S. aureus and cells from dg and gg were poorest. Killing of S. aureus was highest at 4 weeks in SLA cd pigs and in dg and gg pigs at 8 weeks of age. Uptake and killing of S. typhimurium was highest in homozygous aa and cc haplotypes at 4 weeks and pigs with the c x d recombinant haplotype had highest uptake and killing of S. typhimurium at 8 weeks. Litter, but not sire, also influenced significantly the uptake and killing of S. aureus and S. typhimurium. PMID- 2515777 TI - Biochemical evidence that equine leucocyte antigens W13, W22 and W23 are present on horse major histocompatibility complex class II molecules. AB - A number of horse alloantisera were characterized biochemically as being directed against MHC class I or class II antigens by immunoprecipitation of the corresponding antigens from lysates of biosynthetically radioactively labelled lymphocytes and determination of their molecular weights by SDS-PAGE and fluorography. Sera recognizing A2 and A3 specificities precipitated antigens of 44,000 Daltons molecular weight (class I heavy chain), whereas sera with specificities W13, W22 and W23 precipitated antigens corresponding to class II dimers (30,000 and 32,000 Daltons). Comparison with antigens precipitated from horse lymphocyte lysates using (cross-reacting) antibodies to human class I and class II MHC molecules confirmed the results obtained. PMID- 2515778 TI - Linkage of complement factor B gene to the bovine major histocompatibility complex. PMID- 2515779 TI - Evaluation of humoral immunity to Brucella sp in cattle by use of an agar-gel immunodiffusion test containing a polysaccharide antigen. AB - Results of a double agar gel immunodiffusion (Ouchterlony) test that contained a polysaccharide (poly-B) antigen of Brucella melitensis strain B115 were compared with those of 5 other serotests. To determine the sensitivity and specificity of the immunodiffusion, standard tube, 2-mercaptoethanol, Rivanol, card, and complement fixation tests, sera obtained from 1,328 vaccinated, infected, and seronegative cattle, 56 of which had been examined bacteriologically, were used to evaluate the humoral response to Brucella sp. The poly-B antigen confirmed infection in 87.5% of the 56 cattle from which Brucella abortus biotype 1 had been isolated, and in 96.6% (205/212) of a group of cattle suspected to be infected on the basis of results of conventional serotests. Likewise, sera from 4 groups of vaccinated cattle did not react with poly-B antigen, whereas they did react in conventional tests. The poly-B antigen was more specific in detecting infected cattle even in a group of vaccinated adults. A useful strategy to identify infected cattle might be screening, using a combination of the Rivanol and card tests together with the agar-gel immunodiffusion test containing poly-B antigen. PMID- 2515780 TI - Comparison of arrhythmogenic doses of epinephrine in heartworm-infected and noninfected dogs. AB - The arrhythmogenic dose of epinephrine (ADE) was determined in heartworm-infected and noninfected (control) dogs during thiamylal-induced and halothane-maintained anesthesia to assess the myocardial sensitization. The ADE in heartworm-infected dogs (2.42 +/- 0.26 micrograms/kg of body weight) was significantly lower than that for the controls (3.36 +/- 0.29 micrograms/kg). After 2 weeks, ADE was determined again in these dogs after atropine treatment. Atropine treatment lowered the ADE to 1.76 +/- 0.33 micrograms/kg and 1.77 +/- 0.19 micrograms/kg in heartworm-positive and -negative dogs, respectively. After 2 weeks more, the ADE was determined after administration of prazosin, an alpha 1-antagonist. Only 2 of 6 controls and 3 of 6 heartworm-positive dogs had arrhythmias after a threefold increase of ADE. The mean ADE in the dogs that responded to treatment were 7.4 micrograms/kg and 7.2 micrograms/kg for heartworm-positive and -negative dogs, respectively. The finding of this study indicated that ADE in heartworm-infected dogs were lower than those in the control dogs, which makes the heartworm infected dogs more vulnerable to arrhythmia during anesthesia. Atropine did not protect the dogs of either group. However, prazosin protected the dogs of both groups by significantly increasing the threshold of the ADE. On the basis of our findings, to reduce the risk of arrhythmia, we suggest that routine screening of dogs for heartworm infection be done before anesthetics are used. PMID- 2515781 TI - Effects of lipoxygenase inhibitors in a model of lens-induced uveitis in dogs. AB - Uveitis was induced in dogs by intracameral injection of canine lens protein. The lipoxygenase inhibitors phenidone and norhydroguaiaretic acid, and dimethyl sulfoxide decreased fibrin production at 0.5 and 1 hour after induction of uveitis. Phenidone and norhydroguaiaretic acid also inhibited the initial increase in intraocular pressure early in the course of inflammation. Leukotriene B4 in the aqueous was measured by use of radioimmunoassay at 1 hour after inflammation. In control dogs, 230 to 1,700 pg of leukotriene B4/ml was measured; in dogs treated with phenidone, leukotriene B4 was not measured. PMID- 2515782 TI - [Plasma fatty acids in children with cystic fibrosis]. AB - A study of plasmatic fatty acids was carried out on a group of paediatric patients suffering from cystic fibrosis. These data have been compared with those obtained by others authors. High levels of saturated fatty acids and a reduction of polyunsaturates have been found. The ratio of eicosatrienoic acid to arachidonic acid is high in this group of patients, which indicates a certain lack of essential fatty acids. PMID- 2515783 TI - [Tenosynovitis in meningococcal infection]. PMID- 2515784 TI - [Long term depression]. AB - Our practice, in a unit of treatment of dysthymic state being confronted with problems of relapses and recurrences, we have questioned the therapeutic strategies in the long run and their possible assessments. After recalling conceptual and methodological reference about relapses, recurrences and therapeutic assessment, we propose the methods and first results of a retrospective naturalistic study over a period of three years of practice in our treatment unit including 994 cases. We bring out, as soon as the first major depressive episode occurs, a strategy that aims at setting up a therapeutic proceeding tending to treat, beyond the dysthymic episode, the obsessional pre and post-morbid "locks" which seem to "make the bed" of many relapses and recurrences. In this prospect, the interest of serotoninergic molecules with double polarity, anti-depressive and anti-compulsive, is emphasized. PMID- 2515785 TI - Thermal resistance of Listeria monocytogenes. AB - Two methods were used to study the thermal resistance of Listeria monocytogenes. The D60 degrees C values ranged from 1.3-6.5 min in an open vessel. D72 degrees C varied from 0.06-1.5 s and z from 3.1-6.5 K (38 strains) in capillary tubes. Therefore a conventional pasteurization process of 15 s at 72 degrees C could assure 10-750 decimal reductions, depending on the strain. Six days enrichment, at 4 degrees C in milk prior to incubation at 37 degrees C, did not show any influence on measured heat resistance (4 strains). A significant difference in thermal resistance among strains according to their serotype was noted: strains belonging to serogroup 1 were more heat resistant than those belonging to serogroup 4. PMID- 2515786 TI - [Experimental models in studying gastric secretion in dogs: innervated pouch, denervated pouch, cervical esophagostomy. Execution, monitoring, use]. AB - Different surgical models are used in the dog for studying gastric secretion: gastric fistula, denervated Heidenhain pouch, innervated Amdrup pouch and cervical esophagostomy. The surgical procedures are described as well as the care and the monitoring allowing long-term survival of the animals. The association of gastric fistula - Heidenhain pouch has been assessed 30 times and 8 times with cervical esophagostomy. The death-rate was been 7% and the morbidity 24%. Three dogs were provided with an Amdrup pouch. Calibration of the animals allowed the acid and pepsin secreting dose-response to be platted and translation according to lineweaver-Burk or Dowd and Riggs is used to calculate the efficient dose (ED 50) and the maximal response (maxR). Pharmacological or physiological effects might be analyzed in regard to the modification of these parameters in response to a pharmacological agonist or antagonist substance. Some physiological studies could be made using sham-feeding on dogs fitted with a cervical esophagostomy. PMID- 2515787 TI - [Intraduodenal development of diverticula of the lower choledochus. Apropos of 2 cases]. AB - Two cases of intraduodenal development of a low choledochal diverticulum were observed during the last ten years. Preoperative diagnosis of this biliary malformation is difficult. Clinical presentation consisted of chronic upper abdominal pain and high gastrointestinal obstruction, without either cholangitis or pancreatitis. In both patients, treatment consisted of resection of the diverticulum and suture of its neck via a transduodenal approach. The post operative course was uneventful and long-term follow-up (2 and 11 years) is satisfactory, showing that cure has been achieved by means of this simple and radical procedure. This particular biliary anomaly must therefore be distinguished from other diverticula of the common bile duct, because of its clinical presentation, diagnostic approach and treatment required. PMID- 2515788 TI - Purification and properties of human erythrocyte arginase. AB - An efficient method for purification of human erythrocyte arginase was developed. This method included two new procedures, hydrophobic chromatography and immunoaffinity chromatography, and yielded 0.7 mg of homogeneous arginase protein from 2.1 L of haemolysate. The molecular weight of native arginase was estimated to be 105,000 by gel filtration on a Sephadex G-150 column, and that of its subunit 35,000 by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulphate. This indicates that the native enzyme is composed of three homologous subunits. Amino acid composition of human erythrocyte arginase was found to be very similar to that of liver arginase of several other mammals. After dialysis against distilled water, the purified arginase still retained its enzymatic activity which was decreased by EDTA and reversibly restored by Mn(II) ion. A specific polyclonal antibody for use in an immunoassay was also produced. This antibody revealed one single band on immunoelectrophoretic analysis of the acetone powder extract, suggesting absence of arginase isoenzymes in human erythrocytes. PMID- 2515789 TI - Light and electron microscopic study of hamster cheek pouch treated with 9,10 dimethyl 1,2 benzanthracene and retinoic acid. AB - The present study reports light and electron microscopic observations of hamster cheek pouch epithelium exposed to 25 micrograms DMBA (DMBA = 9,10 Dimethyl, 1,2 Benz(a)-nthracene, RA = Retinoic Acid) and 25 micrograms DMBA along with 25 micrograms, 50 micrograms and 100 micrograms retinoic acid. Significant delay in tumour induction was observed in the animals treated with DMBA + retinoic acid. DMBA + retinoic acid treated cheek pouch developed papillary epidermoid carcinomas which were less invasive and less keratinized than only DMBA treated animals. At cellular level DMBA treated animals showed keratinized cells with thick bundles of tonofilaments, broken basement membrane, wide intercellular spaces and loss of desmosomal attachments, whereas animals treated with DMBA + retinoic acid showed decrease in the intercellular spaces, maintenance of basement membrane and intracellular organelles with suppression of keratinization, indicating the differentiating effect of retinoic acid on DMBA transformed cells of hamster cheek pouch. PMID- 2515790 TI - Experimental study on the treatment of oral precancerous lesion--short and long term effect of tablet Anticancer II. AB - This paper reports the experimental study on the treatment of oral precancerous lesion by use of a drug composed of six kinds of Chinese herb medicines, the Anticancer II Tablet. An animal model of lesions with epithelial dysplasia is first produced in cheek pouches of Syrian golden hamsters with a carcinogen, and the drug is then given thrice a week for 12 weeks. The short- and long-term results are good as assessed by comparison with controls in gross and microscopic examination and Interactive Image Analysis System. PMID- 2515791 TI - The effectiveness of CO2 laser in dental surgery--a local experience. AB - The CO2 laser was introduced in Singapore in 1985 for dental surgery. It delivered a novel and brilliant adjunct for management of orofacial lesions and conditions. Tissue destruction is precise, immediate and quite bloodless. Oedema is not remarkable and healing produces minimal scarring. For small mucosal lesions, a power of 5 to 10 watts is sufficient. It is particularly useful for broad-based lesions and white lesions in the oral cavity. For major oral surgery, a power of 20 watts would be adequate for surgical excision. It reduces the invasiveness and trauma of surgery and lowers post-operative complications. The effects on dental hard tissues provide an exciting area for development and research and its uses here are gaining acceptance. PMID- 2515792 TI - Population genetics and evolution of species related to Drosophila melanogaster. PMID- 2515793 TI - Isolation, characterization, and DNA sequence analysis of an AAC(6')-II gene from Pseudomonas aeruginosa. AB - The gene encoding a 6'-N-acetyltransferase, AAC(6')-II, was cloned from Pseudomonas aeruginosa plasmid pSCH884. This gene mediates resistance to gentamicin, tobramycin, and netilmicin but not amikacin or isepamicin. The DNA sequence of the gene and flanking regions was determined. The 5'- and 3'-flanking sequences showed near identity to sequences found abutting a variety of different genes encoding resistance determinants. It is likely that the current structure arose by the integration of the 572-base-pair sequence containing the AAC(6')-II gene into a Tn21-related sequence at the recombinational hot spot, AAAGTT. We have compared the sequence of the AAC(6')-II gene to genes of other 6'-N acetyltransferases. An AAC(6')-Ib protein (encoded by the aacA4 gene; G. Tran Van Nhieu and E. Collatz, J. Bacteriol. 169:5708-5714, 1987) that results in resistance to amikacin but not gentamicin was found to share 82% sequence similarity with the AAC(6')-II protein. We speculate that these two genes arose from a common ancestor and that the processes of selection and dissemination have led to the observed differences in the spectrum of aminoglycoside resistance. PMID- 2515794 TI - Reactivation of peptidoglycan synthesis in ether-permeabilized Escherichia coli after inhibition by beta-lactam antibiotics. AB - The recovery of peptidoglycan-synthesizing activity after inhibition by beta lactam antibiotics was investigated in ether-permeabilized cells of Escherichia coli B. Such cells synthesize sodium dodecyl sulfate-insoluble peptidoglycan when provided with UDP-linked precursors and Mg2+. The ability of beta-lactam antibiotics to inhibit the synthesis of peptidoglycan was correlated with their affinity for penicillin-binding proteins 1A and 1Bs. Penicillin-binding protein 1Bs is thought to be the major peptidoglycan synthetase in E. coli and is a major lethal target for beta-lactam antibiotics. Ether-treated bacteria were preincubated with concentrations of beta-lactams sufficient to completely inhibit peptidoglycan synthesis and then treated with beta-lactamases to inactivate free antibiotic prior to measurement of peptidoglycan synthesis. At 40 min after beta lactamase treatment, the rate of peptidoglycan synthesis was about 74% of the control rate in cells pretreated with ampicillin, but only 15% of the control in cells pretreated with penicillin G or azlocillin. Reversal of inhibition by several other antibiotics fell between these extremes. When cross-linking of peptidoglycan was measured specifically, reversal of inhibition by ampicillin also occurred more readily than that by penicillin G. Reactivation of peptidoglycan synthesis was not due to de novo synthesis of penicillin-binding proteins since it occurred under conditions that did not allow incorporation of [14C]leucine. We conclude that there is considerable variation in the stability of the inactive acyl enzymes formed between various beta-lactams and penicillin binding protein 1Bs, with those formed by penicillin G being relatively long lived. PMID- 2515795 TI - In vitro susceptibilities of Rickettsia rickettsii and Rickettsia conorii to roxithromycin and pristinamycin. AB - In vitro susceptibilities of Rickettsia rickettsii and Rickettsia conorii to roxithromycin, pristinamycin, and the pristinamycin compounds, P1 and P2, were determined by a dye uptake assay and a plaque assay. The MICs were 1 microgram/ml for roxithromycin, 2 micrograms/ml for pristinamycin, greater than 256 micrograms/ml for P1, and 2 micrograms/ml for P2. Compounds P1 and P2 did not share synergetic activity. The toxicity of each compound was determined by a dye uptake assay. Toxic concentrations were 128 micrograms/ml for roxithromycin, 32 micrograms/ml for pristinamycin, greater than 256 micrograms/ml for P1, and 32 micrograms/ml for P2. Roxithromycin and pristinamycin could be useful in the treatment of Rocky Mountain spotted fever and Mediterranean spotted fever. PMID- 2515796 TI - Comparative in vitro activities of pristinamycin and other antimicrobial agents against genital pathogens. AB - The MICs of pristinamycin for genital pathogens were compared with those of ampicillin, tetracycline, erythromycin, and ciprofloxacin. Pristinamycin was active against all the strains studied. Because of this activity and its lack of toxicity, pristinamycin might be a valuable therapeutic agent for treating major sexually transmitted diseases. PMID- 2515797 TI - The effect of thiosulphate and other inhibitors of autotrophic nitrification on heterotrophic nitrifiers. AB - It has been found that heterotrophic nitrification by Thiosphaera pantotropha can be inhibited by thiosulphate in batch and chemostat cultures. Allythiourea and nitrapyrin, both classically considered to be specific inhibitors of autotrophic nitrification, inhibited nitrification by Tsa. pantotropha in short-term experiments with resting cell suspensions. Hydroxylamine inhibited ammonia oxidation in chemostat cultures, but was itself fully oxidized. Thus the total nitrification rate for the culture remained the same. Heterotrophic nitrification by another organism, a strain of "Pseudomonas denitrificans" has also been shown to be inhibited by thiosulphate in short term experiments and in the chemostat. During these experiments it became evident that this strain is able to grow mixotrophically (with acetate) and autotrophically in a chemostat with thiosulphate as the energy source. PMID- 2515798 TI - Regulation of the lysine biosynthesis in Pichia guilliermondii. AB - The regulatory properties of four enzymes (homocitrate synthase, alpha aminoadipate reductase, saccharopine reductase, saccharopine dehydrogenase) involved in the lysine biosynthesis of Pichia guilliermondii were investigated and compared with the regulatory patterns found in other yeast species. The first enzyme of the pathway, homocitrate synthase, is feedback-inhibited by L-lysine. Some other amino acids (alpha-aminoadipate, glutamate, tryptophan, leucine) and lysine analogues are also inhibitors of one or more enzymes. It is shown that only the synthesis of homocitrate synthase is weakly repressed by L-lysine. PMID- 2515799 TI - Decompression-feeding regimen. Accelerating recovery after abdominal surgery. AB - From the time the patients enter the hospital until discharge, the accelerated recovery technique demands more intensive treatment from nurses and physicians. These patients do not require a stay in the intensive care unit, but they do require intensive nursing care. Savings from reduced length of stay, however, far outweigh the nursing care cost. As the emphasis on earlier discharge in health care grows, accelerated recovery in abdominal surgery and other major procedures will become more common. With the accelerated recovery technique, the patient has an active, demanding role in his or her recovery. Much is expected of these patients during pulmonary physiotherapy, which begins shortly after admission and is maintained until discharge. The more conscientiously a patient participates in the physiotherapy, the more quickly and comfortably he or she will leave the hospital. The patient can honestly take credit for a quick recovery. PMID- 2515800 TI - Bacterial sorption of heavy metals. AB - Four bacteria, Bacillus cereus, B. subtilis, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, were examined for the ability to remove Ag+, Cd2+, Cu2+, and La3+ from solution by batch equilibration methods. Cd and Cu sorption over the concentration range 0.001 to 1 mM was described by Freundlich isotherms. At 1 mM concentrations of both Cd2+ and Cu2+, P. aeruginosa and B. cereus were the most and least efficient at metal removal, respectively. Freundlich K constants indicated that E. coli was most efficient at Cd2+ removal and B. subtilis removed the most Cu2+. Removal of Ag+ from solution by bacteria was very efficient; an average of 89% of the total Ag+ was removed from the 1 mM solution, while only 12, 29, and 27% of the total Cd2+, Cu2+, and La3+, respectively, were sorbed from 1 mM solutions. Electron microscopy indicated that La3+ accumulated at the cell surface as needlelike, crystalline precipitates. Silver precipitated as discrete colloidal aggregates at the cell surface and occasionally in the cytoplasm. Neither Cd2+ nor Cu2+ provided enough electron scattering to identify the location of sorption. The affinity series for bacterial removal of these metals decreased in the order Ag greater than La greater than Cu greater than Cd. The results indicate that bacterial cells are capable of binding large quantities of different metals. Adsorption equations may be useful for describing bacterium metal interactions with metals such as Cd and Cu; however, this approach may not be adequate when precipitation of metals occurs. PMID- 2515802 TI - Cloning and characterization of two genes from Bacillus polymyxa expressing beta glucosidase activity in Escherichia coli. AB - DNA fragments from Bacillus polymyxa which encode beta-glucosidase activity were cloned in Escherichia coli by selection of yellow transformants able to hydrolyze the artificial chromogenic substrate p-nitrophenyl-beta-D-glucopyranoside. Restriction endonuclease maps and Southern analysis of the cloned fragments showed the existence of two different genes. Expression of either one of these genes allowed growth of E. coli in minimal medium with cellobiose as the only carbon source. One of the two enzymes was found in the periplasm of E. coli, hydrolyzed arylglucosides more actively than cellobiose, and rendered glucose as the only product upon cellobiose hydrolysis. The other enzyme was located in the cytoplasm, was more active toward cellobiose, and hydrolyzed this disaccharide, yielding glucose and another, unidentified compound, probably a phosphorylated sugar. PMID- 2515801 TI - Biodegradation of trichloroethylene by Methylosinus trichosporium OB3b. AB - The methanotroph Methylosinus trichosporium OB3b, a type II methanotroph, degraded trichloroethylene at rates exceeding 1.2 mmol/h per g (dry weight) following the appearance of soluble methane monooxygenase in continuous and batch cultures. Cells capable oxidizing trichloroethylene contained components of soluble methane monooxygenase as demonstrated by Western blot (immunoblot) analysis with antibodies prepared against the purified enzyme. Growth of cultures in a medium containing 0.25 microM or less copper sulfate caused derepression of the synthesis of soluble methane monooxygenase. In these cultures, the specific rates of methane and methanol oxidation did not change during growth, while trichloroethylene oxidation increased with the appearance of soluble methane monooxygenase. M. trichosporium OB3b cells that contained soluble methane monooxygenase also degraded vinyl chloride, 1,1-dichloroethylene, cis-1,2 dichloroethylene, and trans-1,2-dichloroethylene. PMID- 2515803 TI - Toxicity of Microcystis species isolated from natural blooms and purification of the toxin. AB - Microcystis strains (2 toxic and 18 nontoxic to mice) were isolated from toxic waterblooms that had been collected from Lake Kasumigaura, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, in August 1985. Thirteen of the strains (2 toxic and 11 nontoxic) were Microcystis aeruginosa, 2 (nontoxic) were Microcystis wesenbergii, and the other 5 were difficult to identify. Six (1 toxic and 4 nontoxic M. aeruginosa and 1 M. wesenbergii) of these 20 strains were established as axenic cultures. A toxic and axenic strain of M. aeruginosa, K-139, was used to study the relationship between growth conditions and toxicity. Cells in early-to-mid-log phase showed the highest toxicity (50% lethal dose, 7.5 mg of cells per kg of mouse), and maximum toxicity was not affected by growth temperatures between 22 and 30 degrees C. Purification and characterization of the toxins from K-139 cells were also conducted, and at least two toxins were detected. One of the toxins (molecular mass, 980 daltons) has not been reported previously. The main target of the toxin in mice was the liver. Marked congestion and necrosis in the parenchymal cells around the central veins of the liver were observed microscopically in specimens that had been prepared from the mice with acute toxicity after injection with the toxin. PMID- 2515804 TI - Selective medium for Pseudomonas aeruginosa that uses 1,10-phenanthroline as the selective agent. AB - The MIC of 1,10-phenanthroline for 35 Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains was 128 micrograms/ml, whereas 32 micrograms or less per ml inhibited all other microorganisms tested. On the basis of these results, a selective agar for P. aeruginosa which contained 15 g of Trypticase soy broth (BBL Microbiology Systems), 15 g of agar, and 0.1 g of phenanthroline per liter was formulated. Forty-four P. aeruginosa strains yielded a mean efficiency of plating on this medium of 79% of the counts obtained on Trypticase soy agar, which was significantly higher than that obtained with pseudomonas isolation agar or Pseudosel agar. Pseudomonas cepacia, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Pseudomonas putida, Pseudomonas stutzeri, representatives of 13 other genera (including gram-negative rods, gram-positive rods, and cocci), and a yeast were not recovered within 48 h at 35 degrees C when approximately 10(7) CFU were plated on this medium. Only small colonies from one strain each of P. fluorescens and P. putida could be seen at 3 and 7 days, respectively, and they had an efficiency of plating of only less than 0.001%. When 10(7) CFU of either of these strains was plated with 10(2) CFU of P. aeruginosa, it did not interfere with the quantitative recovery of P. aeruginosa. PMID- 2515805 TI - Growth of genetically engineered Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Pseudomonas putida in soil and rhizosphere. AB - The effect of the addition of a recombinant plasmid containing the pglA gene encoding an alpha-1,4-endopolygalacturonase from Pseudomonas solanacearum on the growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Pseudomonas putida in soil and rhizosphere was determined. Despite a high level of polygalacturonase production by genetically engineered P. putida and P. aeruginosa, the results suggest that polygalacturonase production had little effect on the growth of these strains in soil or rhizosphere. PMID- 2515806 TI - Isolation of microorganisms capable of degrading isoquinoline under aerobic conditions. AB - Isoquinoline-degrading microbial cultures were isolated from oil- and creosote contaminated soils. The establishment of initial enrichment cultures required the use of emulsified isoquinoline. Once growth on isoquinoline was established, isoquinoline emulsification was no longer required for utilization of isoquinoline as the sole source of carbon and nitrogen by these cultures. An isoquinoline-degrading Acinetobacter strain was isolated from one of the enrichment cultures. The degradation of isoquinoline was accompanied by the accumulation of a red cell-associated pigment and of 1-hydroxyisoquinoline, which was further degraded to unknown intermediary ring-cleavage products and carbon dioxide. PMID- 2515807 TI - [Hypothalamic inhibiting factor of luteinizing hormone secretion: relation to the fragment 1-5 of the LH releasing hormone]. AB - In this paper we review the mechanisms underlying the control of gonadotrophin (Gn) release and present evidences of the existence of a luteinizing hormone release-inhibitory factor. We have extracted and partially characterized this factor from rat hypothalamus and bovine median eminence. Our data indicate that the factor is a peptide that has a common antigenic determinant with GnRH, but is of smaller molecular weight than GnRH (750 daltons approximately). These facts strongly suggest that it may be a fragment of the GnRH molecule. The synthetic fragment GnRH (1-5) has similar biologic effects and molecular weight to those of the inhibitory factor obtained from the median eminence and hypothalamus. GnRH (1 5) has been shown to be produced in vitro by cleavage of GnRH by an hypothalamic endopeptidase. Based on this evidences, we suggest that the inhibitory peptide found by us is formed in vivo by degradation of GnRH. Moreover, we suggest that this factor may play a role on the regulation of LH release induced by GnRH. PMID- 2515808 TI - Search for a "toxic site" in snake venom phospholipases A2. AB - Secondary structure predictions on nine snake venom phospholipases A2 by the Chou and Fasman and Cid et al. prediction methods, have led to the location of two possible "toxic sites", responsible for the neurotoxic and myotoxic action of the basic snake venom PLA2, respectively. The accessibility to the neurotoxic site is blocked by the presence of a small helical structure (helix D in the bovine PLA2). The role of lysine residues is found to be decisive in the venom's toxicity. PMID- 2515809 TI - Critical evaluation of polychlorinated biphenyl toxicity in terrestrial and marine mammals: increasing impact of non-ortho and mono-ortho coplanar polychlorinated biphenyls from land to ocean. AB - Residues of potentially toxic non-ortho chlorine substituted coplanar 3,3',4,4' tetra-,3,3',4,4',5-penta-, 3,3',4,4',5,5'-hexachlorobiphenyl and their mono- and di-ortho analogs 2,3',4,4',5-penta, 2,3,3',4,4'-penta-, 2,3,3',4,4',5-hexa- and 2,2',3,3',4,4'-hexa-, 2,2',3,4,4',5-hexachlorobiphenyl) were determined in humans, dogs, cats (terrestrial), a finless porpoise (Neophocoena phocoenoides- coastal), Dall's porpoises (Phocoenoides dalli, dalli), Baird's beaked whales (Berardius bairdii) and killer whales (Orcinus orca--open ocean). Among the coplanar polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congeners, the concentration of the di ortho congeners was the highest and the non-ortho congeners was the lowest. However, all three coplanar PCBs occurred at significantly higher levels than toxic polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs) and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs). The relative bioconcentration and metabolic capacity of terrestrial and marine mammals to these chemicals, suggest that the toxic threat of coplanar PCBs increases from land to ocean, but the reverse is true for PCDDs and PCDFs. The toxic threat of coplanar PCBs to higher aquatic predators such as cetaceans was principally assessed by 2,3,7,8-T4CDD Toxic Equivalent Analysis which is based on the induction of arylhydrocarbon hydroxylase (AHH) and ethoxyresorufin O deethylase (EROD). Analysis indicates, in particular, that the bioaccumulation of toxic 3,3',4,4',5-penta- and 2,3,3',4,4'-pentachlorobiphenyls in carnivorous marine mammals is a cause for considerable concern. PMID- 2515810 TI - The effect of long-term feeding of Aroclor 1254 to female rhesus monkeys on their polychlorinated biphenyl tissue levels. AB - The result of feeding Aroclor 1254 to female Rhesus monkeys at doses of 0, 5, 20, 40 and 80 micrograms/kg body weight/day for a period of 37 months was measured in terms of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) levels in blood, adipose tissue, and feces. PCB concentrations in whole blood increased more rapidly during the first 10 months of the study than in the remaining 27 months for all dose groups. On a blood-lipid basis, however, another rapid increase in PCB levels was observed after 27 months of dosing, which could not be explained on the basis of an overall decrease in blood-lipid levels. Concentrations in adipose tissue and adipose fat increased continuously during the 37 months of dosing. These observations were reflected in the ratio profiles of PCB levels in blood/PCB levels in adipose tissue, which remained relatively static between the 2nd and 27th month of continuous feeding. Expressing the data in terms of relative concentrations (concentration/dose) suggests that bio-accumulation or retention of PCBs may be dose-dependent, particularly for adipose tissue, with the higher relative concentrations of the lowest dose group significantly (p less than 0.001) different from all other dose groups. Similarly, the limited feces data available suggests a dose-dependent PCB absorption. The distribution of PCB peaks in the gas chromatographic elution pattern of all analyzed substrates showed considerable deviation from that of administered Aroclor 1254. Only minor changes in the percent distribution pattern were observed between dose groups. PMID- 2515811 TI - LH-RH agonist (buserelin): treatment of endometriosis. Clinical, laparoscopic, endocrine and metabolic evaluation. AB - To investigate the effects of the LH-RH agonist Buserelin [D-Ser (But)6 des-Gly10 LHRH ethylamide] on endometriosis, 64 patients were treated with 900 micrograms/d Buserelin intranasally over 6 months after histological verification of the disease. As shown by the follow-up operation at the end of treatment, 73% of cases showed regression of implants, whereas adhesions seemed to be unaffected. The uncorrected pregnancy rate of the 45 patients with a history of infertility was 40%, while the overall recurrence rate--confirmed by histological examination -was 9.4%. The endocrine parameters demonstrated a highly significant suppression of estradiol (E2) and a sharp decline of progesterone (Prog), indicating anovulatory cycles. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) was unchanged, while luteinizing hormone (LH) and prolactin (Prl) decreased significantly. The androgenic parameters testosterone (T), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), and sex-hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) revealed no relevant changes. Influence on bone metabolism could not be detected by measuring calcitonin and parathyroid hormone fragments (PTH-C and PTH-MM). Negative metabolic effects were absent in terms of hematology, clotting system, liver enzymes, renal parameters and lipid metabolism. Remarkable was a significant increase of high-density-lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL). Subjective complaints were mostly attributed to the therapy induced hypoestrogenism. We consider Buserelin to be an effective drug in the treatment of endometriosis, with a low incidence of relevant side effects. PMID- 2515812 TI - [Mitomycin C in the topical treatment of superficial neoplasms of the bladder]. AB - From January 1982 to October 1987, 100 patients with multifocal superficial bladder cancer received intravesical MMC at the Institute of Urology, University of Padova. Seventy-three patients had papillary multifocal superficial bladder carcinoma (stages Ta-T1): treatment was divided into therapeutic (18 cases), and prophylactic (55 cases). 27 patients had carcinoma in situ. 39 patients affected by neoplasia relapsed to previous intravesical ADM treatment. All patients received 40 mg. intravesical MMC weekly for 8 consecutive weeks, repeating the cycle in cases of relapse. Complete response rates at 12 months was 53%, 50 to 67% for each group, respectively. Recurrence rate was lower compared to that before treatment; progression rate was also lower compared to a group who received only endoscopic treatment. In patients who relapsed with ADM treatment, the percentage of complete response was 69%. We underscore the efficacy of MMC in lowering relapse and progression in multifocal superficial bladder cancer, which represents the best indication for this kind of treatment. PMID- 2515813 TI - Anti-Scl-70 antibodies detected by immunoblotting in progressive systemic sclerosis: specificity and clinical correlations. AB - One hundred and forty five serum samples from patients with a connective tissue disease and 30 serum samples from healthy blood donors were analysed by immunoblotting. The presence of anti-Scl-70, which seems to discriminate between progressive systemic sclerosis (PSS) and the CREST (calcinosis, Raynaud's phenomenon, esophageal dysmotility, sclerodactyly, telangiectasia) syndrome, was found in 31/64 (48%) patients with PSS, in 6/55 (11%) patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, in 2/26 (8%) patients with mixed connective tissue disease, and in none of 30 healthy blood donors. These data resulted in a specificity of 93% for this antibody in systemic sclerosis. For patients with PSS the duration of disease was significantly shorter in those with anti-Scl-70 antibodies than in those without, whereas the presence of anti-Scl-70 did not correlate with severity of disease. An 82% prevalence of anticentromere antibodies in patients with the CREST variant compared with a 4% prevalence in patients with PSS or with overlap syndrome confirms the high diagnostic value of this autoantibody for the CREST variant of PSS. PMID- 2515815 TI - Can Schistosoma mansoni be detected by the ecdysteroids released in the host? PMID- 2515814 TI - Effect of praziquantel on the eggs of Schistosoma mansoni, with a note on the implications for managing central nervous system schistosomiasis. AB - The morphology of Schistosoma mansoni eggs in intestinal tissues (oograms), and egg hatching in faeces, were studied after parenteral administration of praziquantel (PZQ) to infected mice. PZQ was given parentally in doses of 60 mg kg-1 for one day, five days or 10 days. Eleven days after initiation of therapy, oograms from all groups receiving PZQ showed more dead eggs than controls; a dose response was also observed. Depression of faecal egg hatching occurred within 24 hours of PZQ administration. Our observations suggest that PZQ kills most S. mansoni eggs in host tissues when administered in higher doses than are routinely recommended for treatment of intestinal schistosomiasis mansoni. In order to reduce the lifespan of metabolically active eggs in sensitive tissues, prolonged courses of PZQ could be used when treating central nervous system schistosomiasis. PMID- 2515816 TI - Treatment of arsenical refractory Rhodesian sleeping sickness in Kenya. AB - Case histories of three Rhodesian sleeping sickness patients who relapsed after Mel-B therapy are presented. Repeated Mel-B therapy was clinically effective but not curative, and all three patients subsequently relapsed again and required further treatment. PMID- 2515817 TI - [Phagocytosis-stimulating effect of polysaccharides isolated from ginseng tissue culture]. AB - Materials characterizing immunostimulating activity of a polysaccharide fraction isolated from two lines of the ginseng tissue culture are presented. It was shown that under the drug action, the effector functions of polymorphonuclear leukocytes and macrophages activated. PMID- 2515818 TI - Plasminogen activator activity of testicular cells of subfertile men and FSH in vitro. AB - SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis followed by enzymography of a human testicular cell culture medium demonstrated that the molecular weight of plasminogen activator (PA) secreted was similar to that of human urokinase and it was also confirmed that follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) stimulated PA secretion. To further investigate the correlation between spermatogenic impairment and secretory potential of PA in human testicular cells in vivo, the maximum increment in PA activity as a result of treatment with ovine FSH was measured for two groups of patients with different degrees of spermatogenic impairment. The mean value of maximum increment in PA activity in one group with severely impaired testes was remarkably lower than that in another group with slightly impaired testes. Protein biosynthesis in human testicular cells dependent on FSH appears to be impaired with the progression of spermatogenic impairment. PMID- 2515819 TI - Studies on contractures induced in mouse diaphragm by caffeine and cupric and selenite ions. AB - Mouse diaphragm contractures induced by Cu2+, caffeine and selenite were studied comparatively. Both Cu2+- and caffeine-contractures were produced rapidly and relaxed spontaneously; the selenite-contracture occurred after a latent period of about 45 min and lasted for more than 3 hr. All contractures were myogenic, since neither d-tubocurarine nor tetrodotoxin prevented them. The susceptibility of these contractures to the depletion and replenishment of Ca2+ differed: the Cu2+ contracture increased proportionally with rising extracellular Ca2+ concentrations ranging from 2.5 to 12.5 mM and were abolished by 5 mM EGTA. Caffeine- and selenite-contractures were not affected by changes in extracellular Ca2+ concentration. The caffeine-contracture was abolished by EGTA in high concentration (30 mM) and the selenite-contracture was inhibited by 50 mM EGTA. After removal of Ca2+ with 5 mM EGTA, followed by replacement with 2.5 mM Ca2+ for 1 min, the Cu2(+)-contracture was fully restored. Caffeine- and selenite contractures were restored only after a longer period (10-20 min) of re-exposure to Ca2+. These findings suggest that the Cu2(+)-contracture is dependent on external Ca2+ and probably caused by an increasing Ca2+ entry through sarcolemma. Caffeine- and selenite-contractures apparently result from internal Ca2+ release by sarcoplasmic reticulum. Substitution of either Sr2+ or Co2+ for Ca2+ fully supports the Cu2(+)-contracture. 45Ca2+ uptake and calcium content of the diaphragm were markedly increased by Cu2+ but not by selenite. Furthermore, the Cu2(+)-contracture was inhibited by exposing the outer membrane to trypsin, phospholipase C or saponin. The selenite-contracture was inhibited only by trypsin. The caffeine-contracture was unaffected by these treatments. These results support the notion that the Cu2(+)-contracture is induced by an increased entry of Ca2+ through the outer membrane. Cu2(+)-, caffeine- and selenite contractures were respectively abolished, potentiated and unaffected by chronic denervation of the diaphragm. This and the other findings provide evidence that Cu2(+)-, caffeine- and selenite-contractures are induced in mouse diaphragm muscle via different sites of action. PMID- 2515820 TI - Effects of YM-14673, a new TRH analogue, on responses to morphine in rodents. AB - The influence of YM-14673 (N alpha-[[(S)-4-oxo-2-azetidinyl]-carbonyl]-L-histidyl L-prolinamide dihydrate), a new thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH) analogue, on morphine-induced hypothermia, development of cerebral ischemia and analgesia was investigated in rodents. YM-14673, in doses not affecting the normal rectal temperature, antagonized morphine-induced hypothermia in mice. Morphine-induced hypothermia was also antagonized by administration of TRH, in doses increasing normal rectal temperature. Morphine increased the appearance rate of convulsions in rats subjected to bilateral occlusion of the carotid artery. YM-14673, unlike TRH, reduced the appearance rate of convulsions increased by morphine in the ischemic rats. Morphine-induced analgesia measured by the hot plate method was not affected by both YM-14673 and TRH. Naloxone antagonized the effect of morphine in the 3 models. These results suggest that YM-14673 possesses physiological opioid antagonistic properties. PMID- 2515821 TI - [Prehospital fibrinolysis with rt-PA in acute myocardial infarction]. AB - Thrombolytic therapy has been shown to be very effective in the acute phase of myocardial infarction and the benefits are greater if the treatment is initiated as soon as possible. In France, early treatment in the prehospital phase is possible through the SAMU, an emergency ambulance and care unit organisation. Between December 1987 and November 1988, 80 patients (73 men and 7 women) with an average age of 55 +/- 9 years were treated by rt-PA (100 mg i.v. in 90 minutes) for acute myocardial infarction within three and a half hours of the onset of symptoms. The average delay between the onset of pain and the administration of rt-PA was 126 +/- 43 minutes, which represents an estimated average time gain of 55 minutes compared with thrombolysis started after hospital admission. No haemorrhagic or allergic complications occurred during hospital transfer and there was no mortality. There were, however, two diagnostic errors. Thrombolysis was estimated to be effective on clinical, electrocardiographic and enzymatic criteria in 60 p. 100 of cases. Thirty early coronary angiographies (within 48 hours) showed that 83 p. 100 of the arteries thought to be responsible for the infarct were patent. Haemorrhage was a rare complication during the hospital phase and had a favourable outcome. Hospital mortality was 6 per cent. The low morbidity and the reliability of diagnosis indicate that prehospital thrombolysis is feasible in the acute phase of myocardial infarction. PMID- 2515823 TI - [Intravenous thrombolysis with tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA) at the prehospital phase of acute myocardial infarction. Apropos of 49 cases]. AB - In acute myocardial infarction, the earlier intravenous thrombolysis is performed the more effective its action. Pre-hospital intravenous thrombolysis with 100 mg rt-PA was carried out in 49 patients within 3 hours of myocardial infarction. Male preponderance was conspicuous with 44 men (92%) and only 5 women (8%). Mean age was 50.2 +/- 8 years. The infarction was inferior in 48% of the cases. Out of the 49 thrombolyses performed by the mobile intensive care unit, 3 were discontinued on admission (2 diagnostic errors, 1 external heart massage). The time gained by pre-hospital thrombolysis was 52 +/- 25 minutes. There were few complications of thrombolysis: blood effusion at the site of puncture occurred in 4 cases (9%) and haematemesis in 1 case (2%). No cerebral or lethal haemorrhage was observed. Major complications of MI were seldom encountered at the pre hospital phase: 1 patient died of extensive anterior necrosis with left ventricular dysfunction, and 2 had reversible ventricular fibrillation before treatment was initiated. There was no haemorrhagic complication. The earlier the patient was treated the lower the mortality and morbidity rates. Pre-hospital thrombolysis therefore seems to be feasible when performed by a mobile intensive care unit, and it represents an important gain of time. PMID- 2515822 TI - [Prehospital thrombolysis. Evaluation of preliminary experiences at Val-de Marne]. AB - Benefits of thrombolysis have been shown to be greater when therapy is administered early, and this led us to consider the value of starting thrombolytic treatment in the patient's home. However, this implies the transfer of responsibility of patient management from the cardiologist to the physician in charge of the mobile emergency care team. A study was undertaken in the Val-de Marne department to assess the benefits and risks of this therapeutic approach. The first phase was designed to evaluate the reliability of the emergency care team's diagnosis and the second phase of the study was a randomised double blind prehospital therapeutic trial of a thrombolytic agent, acylated streptokinase (intravenous bolus of 30 units in 4 minutes) against placebo. The nature of prehospital treatment was revealed on hospital admission and thrombolytic therapy was immediately given to those patients allocated to placebo at home providing the admitting cardiologist confirmed the indication. A total of 100 patients were included; 57 were allocated to thrombolytic therapy and 43 to placebo in the prehospital phase. The diagnosis of acute coronary insufficiency was confirmed in all cases and 97 p. 100 of patients had signs of acute myocardial infarction. No complications were attributable to prehospital administration of the thrombolytic. The average time gain in instituting treatment was 60 minutes. At control coronary angiography, 72 p. 100 of the coronary arteries thought to the responsible for the infarct were shown to be patent. The global left ventricular ejection fraction of patients treated with thrombolysis at home was 56.7 p. 100 compared with 53.4 p. 100 in the placebo group.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515824 TI - [Arrhythmogenic effect of ajmaline on the atrial level]. AB - The aim of this study was to determine whether an antiarrhythmic, Ajmaline, could have proarrhythmic effects on the atrium and to compare the results with those of other antiarrhythmic drugs. A total of 1950 patients without cardiac failure or recent (less than 6 weeks) myocardial infarction were given 1 mg/kg of Ajmaline intravenously during electrophysiological investigation. A proarrhythmic effect was defined as the occurrence of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) in a patient without this arrhythmia before the test or the facilitation of its induction. Fifty five patients developed SVT (mainly atrial tachyarrhythmias: 48 cases, and some junctional tachycardia: 7 cases) which occurred spontaneously in 22 patients and during fixed atrial pacing in 33 patients. Fifteen patients developed ventricular tachycardia (VT). The predisposing factors for the development of SVT were: a previous history suggesting spontaneous SVT (28 patients; 51 p. 100); sinoatrial block (14 patients--the only abnormality in 10 cases). Seventeen patients had none of these factors but 8 had known cardiac pathology and the other 9 were relatively elderly patients (79 years). Twelve of the patients developing VT had known cardiac disease, bundle branch block in 12 cases and previous VT in 6 cases. In conclusion, proarrhythmic effects of Ajmaline are infrequent if its contraindications are respected, but they do exist at both atrial (2.8 p. 100) and ventricular levels (0.8 p. 100): the risk factors are comparable: previous spontaneous arrhythmias or ECG changes (SA block at the atrial and bundle branch block at the ventricular level). PMID- 2515825 TI - [Sinus rhythm and standard deviation in cardiac cycles. Influence of myocardial status and beta-blocker treatment]. AB - The efficacy of beta-blockers in preventing sudden death after myocardial infarction would seem to be greater in patients with cardiac failure and proportional to the reduction in heart rate induced by these drugs. In addition, a reduction in heart rate variability measured by the standard deviation from the average cardiac cycle over 24 hours has been reported to be an independent bad prognostic factor after myocardial infarction. This study compares the heart rates and the standard deviations from the mean cardiac cycle over 24 hours in 41 patients divided into 3 groups of comparable age (group I: normal subjects, n = 15; group II: hypertrophic cardiomyopathy without cardiac failure, n = 13; group III: cardiac failure, n = 13) before and after administration of acebutolol (10 mg/kg). The average 24 hour heart rates, the maximum 8-hour diurnal and minimum average 4-hour nocturnal heart rates, day-night ratio and standard deviations from the average 24 hour heart rate and at the hours of maximum and minimum average heart rates were measured by Holter monitoring with an ATREC II system. The 24 hour heart rates were slower in groups II (-18.1 p. 100) and III (-19.1 p. 100) than in group I (-9.5 p. 100), p less than 0.01, the basal heart rates being comparable and the heart rates after acebutolol being significantly lower in groups II and III. The degree of change was comparable during the diurnal and nocturnal periods.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515826 TI - [Coronary endarterectomy using an excimer laser. Preliminary peroperative results]. AB - From experimental and clinical experience, safe coronary angioplasty cannot be performed with CW lasers. The excimer laser does present a number of advantages in vitro: non-thermal ablation of plaques and a linear relationship between the number of pulses and the depth of the crater, so that tissue ablation is quantitatively predictable. A 308 nm, 20 ns pulse duration, 1 to 5 repetition rate laser was specifically designed for clinical application. During cardiopulmonary bypass prior to bypass grafting in 10 symptomatic patients, a 1 mm diameter core UV-tipped fiberoptic was introduced via the coronary arteriotomy and directed in contact with the coronary stenosis. Laser power was progressively increased until the stenosis or occlusion was recanalized. The quality of this angioplasty was controlled by calibration of he neo-lumen, cardioplegia solution flow through the lased segment, and 8th day coronary angiography. The laser treated coronary segments of the first 4 patients showed clearly parallel-lined patent neo-lumen despite competitive bypass graft flow. The main limitation of the method is that laser coronary recanalization is confined to the fiber core diameter. The authors conclude that: 1) excimer laser angioplasty is a safe and efficient intra-operative procedure; 2) the most critical problem for percutaneous laser angioplasty remains flexibility of the apparatus as the fiber diameter must be large enough to provide an adequate arterial neo-lumen. PMID- 2515827 TI - [Treatment of coronary restenosis by repeated coronary transluminal angioplasty. Immediate and medium-term results]. AB - To assess the immediate and medium term efficacy of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) for restenosis, we retrospectively studied 102 patients undergoing a second PTCA between August 1983 and October 1987. The patients were 89 males and 13 females, mean age 61 +/- 7 years. Before the second PTCA, 13 patients were asymptomatic, 31 had effort angina and 58 resting angina. Exercise stress test performed in 50 patients was positive in 40 cases, negative in 9 and uninterpretable in 1. The coronary lesions were: 59 one vessel disease (58 p. 100) and 43 multivessel disease in which PTCA was performed on 1 lesion in 40 and on 2 lesions in 3. Primary success of PTCA was obtained in 100 patients (98 p. 100); 2 patients underwent coronary artery bypass graft (CABG), 1 as an emergency. At 6 months 45 patients had recurrent chest pain (46 p. 100) and 52 were asymptomatic. Control coronary angiogram performed in 70 patients (72 p. 100) after a mean delay of 7.4 +/- 6 months showed a second restenosis in 34, symptomatic in 31. Medium term follow-up was obtained for 96 patients (96 p. 100) with a mean follow-up period of 22.3 +/- 13.2 months. There were 5 cardiac deaths (5.2 p. 100) and 4 non fatal myocardial infarctions (4.2 p. 100). A new revascularization procedure after the second PTCA was performed in 33 patients (34.4 p. 100). Twenty-five patients underwent a third PTCA (26 p. 100), 5 patients a fourth PTCA (5.2 p. 100) and 11 patients underwent a CABG (11.4 p. 100).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515828 TI - [Clinical, angiographic aspects and 18-month follow-up of 134 cases of left coronary trunk stenosis]. AB - A series of 134 patients with left main coronary stenosis was followed up for an average of 18 months. The majority of patients presented with unstable angina and per-critical ECG changes. Coronary angiography showed that left main coronary stenosis is rarely an isolated entity but generally associated with diffuse coronary atherosclerosis. Left ventricular function is usually normal. Treatment is surgical whenever the coronary lesions, left ventricular function and general condition of the patient allow it. The medium-term surgical results are excellent on clinical symptoms and quality of life at the price of low perioperative mortality and morbidity. PMID- 2515829 TI - [Electrophysiologic effects of intravenous 3-hydroxy-dihydroquinidine (LNC-834) in man]. AB - The object of this study was to determine the electrophysiological effects of 3 hydroxy-dihydroquinidine (3-OH-HQ) in man. The electrophysiological parameters were measured in 12 patients before and after intravenous infusion of 5 mg/kg of 3-OH-HQ in 15 minutes. The mean plasma concentrations obtained varied from 2.4 +/ 1.1 mg/l at the 20th minute to 0.9 +/- 0.3 mg/l at the 60th minute. In these concentrations, 3-OH-HQ did not cause hypotension or affect the heart rate and nodal conduction. It did, however, prolong infra-hisian and intraventricular conduction and ventricular repolarisation from the 20th to the 60th minute after starting the infusion. The peak effect was observed at the 20th minute (+19 +/- 3.4 ms; +14.6 +/- 3.5 ms; and +44.5 +/- 6.6 ms, respectively). The 3-OH-HQ increased the effective atrial and ventricular refractory periods at the 30th minute (+21.8 +/- 5.5 ms and +22.3 +/- 7 ms, respectively). However, the ventricular effect only was discernable at the 60th minute. These effects are quantitatively comparable to those of quinidine. Extrapolation of these results to the effects of chronic oral treatment should be reserved as the therapeutic zone of this new molecule has not yet been determined. PMID- 2515830 TI - Trends in coronary heart disease. The US experience. PMID- 2515831 TI - [Anesthesia for cardioversion: what is new in 1989?]. PMID- 2515832 TI - [Report of the joint meeting of the International Society and Federation of Cardiology and the World Health Organization Task Force on Coronary Angioplasty]. PMID- 2515833 TI - [Echocardiographic-Doppler study of a case of subacute and incomplete parietal rupture after myocardial infarction]. AB - The authors report the case of a 55 year old man who suffered a silent, laterobasal myocardial infarction which was complicated by a subacute pseudo false aneurysm of the lateral wall of the left ventricle. They underline: The importance of two-dimensional echocardiography in the diagnosis of a neo-para left ventricular cavity showing systolic expansion and communicating with the left ventricle by a narrow neck indicating rupture of the free ventricular wall; The value of two-dimensional color coded Doppler which enables the operator to distinguish the active nature of the neo-left ventricular cavity before surgery and its inactivity after surgery. The surgical indication for emergency resection of the pseudo aneurysm was based on these preoperative non-invasive observations. This case confirms the value of cardiac two-dimensional echo-Doppler studies in the investigation of ischaemic heart disease. PMID- 2515834 TI - [Primary hyperparathyroidism disclosed by heart arrhythmia]. AB - The authors report a case of primary hyperparathyroidism in a 47 year old woman presenting with cardiac arrhythmias. She had paraoxystic supraventricular tachycardias and rate-dependent ventricular hyperexcitability suggestive of a catecholamine-induced phenomenon which were resistant to antiarrhythmic therapy over a 3 year period; the plasma calcium concentration was 3.30 mmol/l. An ectopic parathyroid adenoma was removed surgically, normalising the biological changes, and no further arrhythmias were detected by Holter monitoring during the 2 year follow-up period. The association of atrial and ventricular arrhythmias seems to be relatively rate in hyperparathyroidism; patients usually present with atrioventricular block and ventricular hyperexcitability. The other cardiovascular abnormalities observed in hyperparathyroidism are hypertension and myocardial hypertrophy. The electrophysiological mechanisms underlying the clinical manifestations remain obscure. PMID- 2515835 TI - [Methods for evaluating anti-angina agents]. PMID- 2515836 TI - The utilization of whole-body autoradiography and allied tracer techniques in distribution and biotransformation studies of N-nitrosamines. AB - The tissue-disposition of various N-nitrosamines has been examined by whole-body autoradiography and allied tracer techniques in a series of studies at our department. Tracing of N-nitrosamine-metabolizing tissues was a major purpose of the studies. The data obtained provide evidence that the in vivo localization of N-nitrosamine metabolites in various tissues is almost invariably due to local metabolism in the same tissues and that the tumourigenesis by N-nitrosamines is to a considerable extent correlated with this metabolism. The epithelial linings of the upper digestive tract and respiratory pathways were usually very active in N-nitrosamine metabolism, and these tissues also were prevalent sites for N nitrosamine-carcinogenesis. The presence of cytochrome P-450-activity has been shown in these structures and may normally play a role in defending the body against unrestrained uptake of xenobiotics. However, noxious effects may instead be induced for chemicals bioactivated by cytochrome P-450-dependent reactions, such as N-nitrosamines. PMID- 2515837 TI - Detection of steroid hormone (estrogen) residues in imported red meat. AB - 28 immature female albino mice were utilized to clarify, if hormonal agents used in the production of meat for human consumption, such as estrogen, remained in higher quantity in meat cut from carcasses of animals which had received hormones for finishing, and if those residues were harmful to the human consumer. The animals were subdivided into 4 equal groups. Group A for control were fed a normal ration. Each mouse in Group B received one daily intraperitoneal injection of 0.2 micrograms of oestradiol propionate. Group C were fed a daily normal ration of 5 g per animal mixed with imported minced meat. Group D were fed as Group C, but local minced meat was used. Sera were collected after one week. There were significant increases in both FSH and LH in Group B. A slight rise in both FSH and LH in Groups C and D. Group A exhibited lower levels of both FSH and LH. The number of Graafian follicles was significantly higher in Group B. Body weight (b.w.) of Group B increased faster than in other groups. Groups C and D were very close to each other in b.w., indicating that imported meat and our local meat were free of any estrogenic residues. PMID- 2515838 TI - Immunogenicity of allogeneic pancreatic islet grafts: the effect of in vitro culture and the site of transplantation. AB - Freshly isolated or cultured for 14 days rat allogeneic pancreatic islets were transplanted either intramuscularly or intratesticularly. After 14 days, the specific recipients' antigraft humoral and cellular immunity evaluated by means of leukoagglutination assay and indirect splenocyte migration inhibition test, respectively. Islet preculture resulted in significant decrease of humoral and in absence of cellular antigraft immunity irrespectively of site of transplantation. Intratesticular grafting did not evoke cellular response after transplantation of both fresh and cultured islets. However, antibody production after intratesticular transplantation of fresh islets remained unaffected. It may be concluded that preculture of rat pancreatic islets affects their immunogenicity. Moreover, testis appears to be a suitable immunoprivileged site for islet grafting. PMID- 2515839 TI - [Nitrogen metabolism in the large intestine of ruminants. 6. Metabolism of intracecally administered 14C and 15N urea in sheep with simultaneous intracecal doses of heat-damaged hay]. AB - Two wethers (28 kg and 33 kg) were supplied with ileocaecal re-entrance cannulae and received a straw pellet ration rich in crude fibre (70.5% straw, 12% chopped sugar beet, 10% cereals, 2% urea, 3% NH4HCO3 and 2.5% of a mineral mixture). In a preliminary period 50% of the digesta flow was collected on 6 successive days for 18 h each. An amount of digesta sufficient for 24 h was apportioned for hourly application and stored at a temperature of -20 degrees C for the main trial. In the main trial the two animals received intracaecally the collected digesta with a supplement of ca. 6 g hay damaged by heat/kg LW(0.75) in hourly portions over 24 h (hay made up ca. 15 and 20% resp. of the DM amount). In addition, each digesta sample was supplemented with 14C and 15N labelled urea (19.7.10(6) Bq 14C urea and 364 mg 15N excess from 15N urea). About 9% of the applied 15N amount was microbially utilized; the utilization quota was thus lower than after the application of partly hydrolyzed straw meal (16% in a previous trial). The 14C activity from 14C urea was quickly eliminated in the form of CO2 in the respiratory gases (at the 18th hour after the end of the infusion 70% excreted as CO2). The half-lives for the urea resulting from the semi-logarithmic decrease of the atom-% 15N excess in the blood plasma were 7.9 and 7.7 resp. 23% and 34% resp. of the applied 15N excess were excreted in urine. The excretion of radioactive carbon in urine, however, was at 2.8% and 4.3% resp. of the applied amount very low 120 h after the beginning of the trial (96 h after the end of the infusion). On the whole one can conclude from this trial that hay damaged by heat has only a low stimulating effect on microbial activity in the large intestine. PMID- 2515840 TI - [Ultrastructural characteristics of the cerebellar cortex in the postnatal development of animals with protein-calorie malnutrition and in subsequent rehabilitation]. AB - An electron microscopical investigation of the cerebellar cortex has been carried out in mice, kept during the 10th-40th days of their life at a diet with protein insufficiency and a subsequent food rehabilitation and food rehabilitation with carnitine addition to the diet on the 41st-70th days of their life. A sharp protein limitation in the diet results in the most essential changes in the neuropil, while the ultrastructure of the piriform neurons changes slightly. Amount of the synaptic vesicles in small axonal terminals decreases and their localization in the area of the synaptic contacts changes. Simultaneously, degeneratively changed axonal terminals often occur, they demonstrate a rather electron opaque axoplasma. The food rehabilitation mainly normalizes the ultrastructure of the cerebellar cortex elements, however, in the neuropil altered axonal terminals with a high electron opaque axoplasma occur. After the food rehabilitation with carnitine addition to the diet, the cerebellar cortex ultrastructure not only normalizes, but even demonstrates certain signs of hypertrophy. PMID- 2515841 TI - Cerebral evoked potentials in human chronic Chagas' disease. AB - Seventy five patients with the diagnosis of chronic Chagas' disease were studied by employing EPs techniques. Two of them had delayed arrival of the signal to the Erb's point and one to the spinal cord when looking at SEPs. Two patients had increment of the time interval between waves Ist and IIIrd, when studying PEATs. These findings were interpreted as due to peripheral nerve fibers damage, a feature described in previous papers. The most striking finding was the prolonged time interval between waves N13 and N20 (SEPs) found in two patients and between waves IIIrd and Vth (PEAT) seen in 7 affected subjects. These observations suggested the development of some sort of CNS involvement, perhaps related to myelin damage, in patients who reached the chronic state of the infection. PMID- 2515842 TI - Synergistic antitumor activity of cisplatin and UFT in nude mice bearing transplantable nasopharyngeal hybridoma. AB - Combination therapy with cisplatin (CDDP) and UFT, a drug prepared with 1 (tetrahydro-2-furanyl)-5-fluorouracil and uracil at a mixing molar ratio of 1:4, was examined in nude mice bearing transplantable human nasopharyngeal hybrid cell (A2L/AH). The tumor growth of A2L/AH was inhibited in the group administered UFT 20 mg/kg, but was not in 10 mg/kg group in comparison with the control group. An inhibition rate (IR) of the tumor growth at 20 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg doses was 80.2 and 21.3%, respectively. The group received CDDP (5 mg/kg, q7d x 3, 2 mg/kg, q7d x 3, and 1 mg/kg, qd x 6) by intraperitoneal injection, resulted in 75.2, 37.4, and 23.1% inhibitions, respectively. While, the response rate in the group treated with CDDP (1 mg/kg, qd x 6) and UFT (10 mg/kg) showed a synergistic effects (IR, 66.3%) which was higher than in the group administered CDDP (2 mg/kg, q7d x 3) and UFT (10 mg/kg) (IR, 58.3%). PMID- 2515844 TI - Listeria in food--light at the end of the tunnel? PMID- 2515843 TI - Functional and morphological studies on blood platelets in a thrombasthenic horse. AB - A four-year-old Standardbred gelding presented with a 3.5 year history of intermittent epistaxis and spontaneous submucosal petechiae and ecchymoses in the nares and the mouth. Routine haematological and biochemical examinations were unremarkable. A thrombocytopathy was suspected when activated partial thromboplastin time, one stage prothrombin time, plasma fibrinogen and the platelet count were all normal. The patient's platelets failed to aggregate with serotonin, adenosine diphosphate, collagen (at 20 micrograms/ml) or the endoperoxide analogue U46619. Very high levels of collagen (100 micrograms/ml) did cause aggregation. The response to the calcium ionophore A23187 was reduced and although complete degranulation occurred the resulting aggregates were unstable. Thromboxane generation in response to collagen and ADP was inferred from the concentration of its stable metabolite thromboxane B2 and was reduced. A diagnosis of a thrombasthenia-like syndrome possibly equivalent to Type II Glanzmann's thrombasthenia in people was made. PMID- 2515845 TI - Antigen analyses. PMID- 2515846 TI - The application of electron microscopy to veterinary virus diagnosis. PMID- 2515847 TI - Mid-trimester abortion by extraamniotic Emcredil versus normal saline. AB - Data is presented for 40 mid-trimester abortions, induced by 0.1% Emcredil (Group 1--20 cases) and normal saline (Group 2--20 cases) by instillation in the extraamniotic space. It was observed that the 2 groups were comparable for age, parity and period of gestation. The mean induction-abortion interval was 18 hours 9 minutes in Group 1 and 19 hours 19 minutes in Group 2. Abortion was complete in 45% and 65% in Group 1 and Group 2, respectively. With a cutoff time of 30 hours, there were 3 failures, 1 in Group 1 and 2 in Group 2. The induction-abortion interval was significantly less in the more advanced pregnancies in the saline group. There was no complication in either of the 2 groups. It is hypothesized that normal saline also acts by damage of the decidual cells with liberation of prostaglandins locally. Also since normal saline is a cheap and easily available commodity with no contraindication for its use and no side-effects, it seems to hold a lot of promise for induction of mid-trimester abortion. PMID- 2515848 TI - Comparative analysis of glue proteins in the Drosophila nasuta subgroup. AB - The patterns of protein fractions from total salivary glands and from glue plugs were compared in seven members of the Drosophila nasuta subgroup by the use of sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). The glue protein patterns are member specific concerning the numbers and the electrophoretic mobilities of major and minor glue protein fractions. However, the major fractions of all subgroup members could be grouped into five SDS-PAGE domains according to the homologies of their electrophoretic mobilities, prominence of Coomassie blue staining, and PAS reaction. In all subgroup members, major fractions are involved in posttranslational modifications into larger protein molecules of the final glue. Quantitative estimations of the glue proteins in D. n. nasuta and D. n. albomicans reveal that they constitute between 55 and 60% of the total salivary gland proteins, whereas in D. melanogaster and in D. hydei the fraction is only 32 and 35%, respectively. PMID- 2515849 TI - The solubilization of a glucuronyltransferase involved in pea (Pisum sativum var. Alaska) glucuronoxylan synthesis. AB - A glucuronyltransferase involved in glucuronoxylan biosynthesis was obtained from the epicotyls of 1-week-old etiolated pea (Pisum sativum var. Alaska) seedlings and was solubilized in Triton X-100, a non-ionic detergent. The enzyme was inactivated by SDS and inhibited by Derriphat 160 and cholic acid. The enzyme was active in the presence of NN-dimethyldodecylanium-N-oxide, but was not solubilized by it. The stimulatory effect of UDP-D-xylose on the particulate and solubilized enzymes was the same, but the optimum Mn2+ concentration was lower for the solubilized enzyme, and the product formed by the solubilized enzyme has altered structure and solubility properties. Gel filtration of the solubilized enzyme on Sepharose CL-6B permitted partial separation of the stimulatory effect of UDP-D-xylose from the activity in the absence of UDP-D-xylose. The solubilized enzyme was more stable than the particulate enzyme and could be stored for 2 weeks at -20 degrees C without loss of activity. PMID- 2515850 TI - Hydrogen peroxide cytotoxicity. Low-temperature enhancement by ascorbate or reduced lipoate. AB - The principal mechanism of H2O2 toxicity is thought to involve the generation of hydroxyl (HO.) radicals through its interactions with Fe2+ ions by the Fenton reaction. Of particular interest has been the demonstration by Ward, Blakely & Joner [(1985) Radiat. Res. 103, 383-392] that the cytotoxicity of H2O2 is diminished at low temperature. We have now examined this phenomenon further with a mammalian epithelial cell line (CNCMI-221). Resistance of these cells to 100 microM-H2O2 added extracellularly exhibits a transition in the temperature range between 27 degrees C and 22 degrees C. We have found that the low-temperature resistance to cytotoxic concentrations of H2O2 is abolished by preincubation of cells with reductants such as ascorbate or reduced lipoic acid. This implies that the low-temperature resistance to H2O2 cytotoxicity may be due to inhibition of cellular reductive processes. The restoration of the cytotoxic action of H2O2 at 4 degrees C by ascorbate is prevented by pre-exposure of cells to desferrioxamine. This is evidence that transition-metal ions (such as iron ions) are involved in the cytotoxicity and is consistent with a mechanism of cell damage that depends on the Fenton reaction and a metal ion in the reduced state. Restoration of H2O2 cytotoxicity at low temperature by ascorbate is consistent with the artificial production of an intracellular reducing environment that at normal temperatures is sustained by cellular metabolism. PMID- 2515852 TI - Purification and characterization of a heterogeneous glycosylated invertase from the rumen holotrich ciliate Isotricha prostoma. AB - The invertase (beta-fructofuranosidase, EC 3.2.1.26) of the rumen holotrich ciliate Isotricha prostoma has been purified. This is the first report of an enzyme purification from a known species of rumen protozoon. Cells were disrupted by ultrasonic treatment and the enzyme was purified from the cell-free extract by three successive liquid column chromatographies (Sepharose CL4B/octyl-Sepharose CL4B, DE52 DEAE-cellulose and concanavalin A-Sepharose 4B). This resulted in a 160-fold purification and a 15% yield. The major form of the purified enzyme was a tetramer with Mr about 350,000 that was readily dissociated by electrophoresis. The invertase was heterogeneous, as five types of monomers were shown by SDS/polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis after denaturation. Part of this heterogeneity was due to different glycosylated forms of one of the polypeptides present in the purified enzyme. Isotricha prostoma invertase exhibited maximum activity at pH 5.5-6.0 and 50 degrees C. The kinetic properties of the purified enzyme were very similar to those of invertases from other sources such as yeast or plants (substrate and product inhibition, transferase activity). PMID- 2515851 TI - Endothelial inositol phosphate generation and prostacyclin production in response to G-protein activation by AlF4-. AB - In order to elucidate the role of guanine-nucleotide-binding proteins (G proteins) in endothelial prostacyclin (PGI2) production, human umbilical vein endothelial cells, prelabelled with either [3H]inositol or [3H]arachidonic acid, were stimulated with the non-specific G-protein activator aluminium fluoride (AlF4-). AlF4- caused a dose- and time-dependent generation of inositol phosphates, release of arachidonic acid and production of PGI2. The curves for the three events were similar. When the cells were stimulated in low extracellular calcium (60 nM), they released [3H]arachidonic acid and produced PGI2, but depleting the intracellular Ca2+ stores by pretreatment with the Ca2+ ionophore A23187 totally inhibited both events, although the cells still responded when extracellular Ca2+ was added. The Ca2+ ionophore did not inhibit the generation of inositol phosphates in cells maintained at low extracellular Ca2+. Pertussis toxin pretreatment (14 h) altered neither inositol phosphate nor PGI2 production in response to AlF4-. To investigate the functional role of the diacylglycerol/protein kinase C arm of the phosphoinositide system, the cells were pretreated with the protein kinase C activator 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13 acetate (TPA) or the protein kinase C inhibitor 1-(5-isoquinolinylsulphonyl)-2 methylpiperazine (H7). TPA inhibited the AlF4(-)-induced inositol phosphate generation but stimulated both the release of arachidonic acid and the production of PGI2. H7 had opposite effects both on inositol phosphate generation and on PGI2 production. These results suggest that AlF4(-)-induced PGI2 production is mediated by a pertussis-toxin-insensitive G-protein which activates the phosphoinositide second messenger system. This production of PGI2 can be modulated by protein kinase C activation, both at the level of inositol phosphate generation and at the level of arachidonic acid release. PMID- 2515853 TI - Detection by chemical cross-linking of bovine brain synapsin I self-association. AB - Synapsin I is believed to play an important role in the regulation of neurotransmitter release, since it is able to bind to synaptic vesicles, to the cytoskeleton and to membrane proteins; in addition, it bundles F-actin and microtubules. These properties, which are controlled by phosphorylation, could be explained if synapsin has different and multiple binding sites or if synapsin I is able to form polymers by self-association. In this study we present experimental evidence that synapsin I at low concentration forms self-associated dimers, as revealed after mild treatments with cross-linking agents. We have especially studied here the effects of copper/o-phenanthroline, a zero-length cross-linking agent which forms covalent links by oxidative formation of S-S bridges between adjacent cysteines. The time course and concentration-dependence of synapsin-dimer formation are studied; interestingly, these experiments could suggest a different behaviour of the two polypeptides. Limited proteolysis of phosphorylated synapsin I by V8 protease, alpha-chymotrypsin or collagenase, performed on the isolated dimer and monomer, allows us to localize tentatively in the central hydrophobic core of the molecule the cysteine residues the oxidation of which by copper/o-phenanthroline gives rise to synapsin dimers. PMID- 2515855 TI - The cDNA cloning of a pea (Pisum sativum) seed lipoxygenase. Sequence comparisons of the two major pea seed lipoxygenase isoforms. AB - Cloning and sequencing of two cDNAs from mRNA of maturing pea (Pisum sativum) seeds allowed the deduction of the complete amino acid sequence of a lipoxygenase polypeptide which is most similar to that of soya-bean lipoxygenase 2. The predicted Mr of this polypeptide is 97134, and its sequence permits comparisons between the lox2-type and the lox3-type lipoxygenase isoforms from pea and soya bean (Glycine max). PMID- 2515854 TI - Mechanisms of luteinizing-hormone exocytosis in Staphylococcus aureus-alpha-toxin permeabilized sheep gonadotropes. AB - We have used primary gonadotropes permeabilized with the pore-forming protein Staphylococcus aureus alpha-toxin to investigate luteinizing hormone (lutropin, LH) exocytosis. The diameter of the alpha-toxin pores (2-3 nm) allows the exchange of small molecules, whereas larger cytosolic proteins are retained. Because of the slow exchange of small molecules through the pores, we have developed a protocol which combines prolonged pre-equilibration of the permeabilized cells at 0 degrees C before stimulation with strong Ca2+ buffering. Under these conditions, increasing the free Ca2+ concentration from 0.1 microM to 10 microM [EC50 (concentration effecting half-maximal response) 2-3 microM] resulted in a 15-20-fold increase in LH exocytosis. LH exocytosis was maximal in the first 3 min and completed by 12 min. When permeabilized cells were equilibrated for prolonged periods in the absence of MgATP, Ca2(+)-stimulated LH secretion gradually declined (greater than 90% decrease by 60 min). Addition of MgATP (5 mM) rapidly restored full Ca2(+)-stimulated LH secretion. MgATP supported Ca2(+)-stimulated LH secretion at a half-maximal concentration of 1.5 mM. UTP and adenosine 5'-[gamma-thio]triphosphate were 40 and 31% as effective as MgATP, whereas other nucleotide triphosphates were ineffective. The protein kinase C (PKC) activator phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA; 50 nM) stimulated LH exocytosis at free Ca2+ concentrations as low as 1 nM and was additive with Ca2+ at higher free Ca2+ concentrations. PMA-stimulated exocytosis required MgATP at concentrations similar to those required for Ca2(+)-stimulated LH exocytosis. These results demonstrate that LH exocytosis can be triggered both by micromolar Ca2+ concentrations or, in the virtual absence of Ca2+, by PKC activation. Both mechanisms of stimulated exocytosis have an absolute requirement for millimolar ATP. Because they retain cytosolic proteins, alpha-toxin-permeabilized cells may have advantages over alternative permeabilization methods provided that conditions are used that compensate for slow diffusion through alpha-toxin pores. PMID- 2515856 TI - Spontaneous atherosclerotic lesions and prostacyclin formation in rabbits: effects of combined dipyridamole and aspirin. AB - The influence of dipyridamole and lysine acetylsalicylate on the incidence of atherosclerotic lesions and on arterial prostacyclin formation was studied in rabbits. Male New Zealand rabbits received i.m. for 16 months dipyridamole (12.5 mg/kg/day) and lysine acetylsalicylate (0.5 mg/kg/day). The incidence of spontaneous atherosclerotic lesions in the aorta was reduced by 16.4% with respect to untreated animals. Administration of the drugs significantly increased prostacyclin formation with respect to the untreated rabbits both in animals developing (1124 +/- 197 pg/mg/3 min vs 316 +/- 49 pg/mg/3 min) or not developing lesions (499 +/- 40 pg/mg/3 min vs 246 +/- 19 pg/mg/3 min). The observed increase in prostacyclin formation could account for the lowered incidence of atherosclerotic lesions in rabbits receiving the combination of dipyridamole and lysine acetylsalicylate. PMID- 2515857 TI - The molecular genetics of early neurogenesis in Drosophila melanogaster. AB - The extent of neurogenesis in Drosophila is under the control of the so-called neurogenic genes, named for their mutant phenotype of causing neural hyperplasia. Their wild-type products appear to be responsible for a signal chain that decides the fate of ectodermal cells in the embryo. Various kinds of data, from cell transplantation experiments as well as from genetic and molecular analyses, suggest that the proteins encoded by the genes Notch and Delta may act at the membrane of the signal-transmitting cells to provide a ligand to a still unknown receptor molecule; in contrast, the locus of Enhancer of split codes for several functions related to the transduction and further processing of the signal. PMID- 2515858 TI - Inhibition of bovine heart mitochondrial and Paracoccus denitrificans NADH--- ubiquinone reductase by dequalinium chloride and three structurally related quinolinium compounds. AB - 1. Dequalinium chloride (DECA) and three related quinolinium compounds inhibit bovine heart mitochondrial and Paracoccus denitrificans electron transport activity, with inhibition localized between NADH and ubiquinone in both electron transport chains. 2. Structure-activity studies reveal that two quinolinium rings and a long bridging group are necessary for significant inhibition of reduction of artificial electron acceptors and coenzyme Q, whereas only one quinolinium ring and a long hydrocarbon side chain are required for significant inhibition of NADH oxidase activity. 3. Inhibition of coenzyme Q reduction by DECA is not reversed by dialysis. 4. Studies comparing DECA inhibition of rotenone-sensitive with rotenone-insensitive preparations indicate that DECA acts by a different inhibitory mechanism than rotenone on mammalian mitochondrial and P. denitrificans NADH----ubiquinone reductase. PMID- 2515859 TI - Endoglycosidase H susceptibility of secreted and intracellular forms of dopamine beta-hydroxylase. AB - In an attempt to characterize the differences between various forms of dopamine beta-hydroxylase (DBH) the endoglycosidase H (endo H) susceptibilities of the intracellular and secreted DBH were compared. Both soluble and membrane-bound forms of newly synthesized DBH in PC12 cells were found to be susceptible to endo H. Soluble DBH, apparent Mr of 73K, was converted to 67K Mr and membrane-bound DBH, apparent Mr of 77K and 73K, shifted to 69K and 67K. Upon stimulation with the potent secretagogue, BaCl2, over 65% of intracellular dopamine and norepinephrine were secreted together with the soluble proteins of the secretory granules. DBH, released upon this stimulated secretion, was relatively resistant to endo H compared to the intracellular forms. PMID- 2515860 TI - Efficacy of the glyceryl trinitrate transdermal therapeutic system in a dog model of myocardial ischaemia. AB - The efficacy of a controlled-release topical dosage form of glyceryl trinitrate (Nitroglycerin Transdermal Therapeutic System, Nitroderm TTS, NTG-TTS) was studied in the experimental model of myocardial ischaemia in beagles. At blood concentrations similar to those attained in clinical practice, NTG-TTS suppressed the ST elevation in the electrocardiogram (ECG) reflecting ischaemic change due to coronary ligation and antagonized the decrease in coronary blood flow resulting from intracoronary injection of angiotensin II (Ang II). Like those of the well-known, conventionally administered nitrates, these anti-ischaemic effects of NTG-TTS were presumably attributable to the reduction of pre-load, together with direct vasodilatation of the coronary and peripheral arteries. PMID- 2515861 TI - Circulatory and myocardial effects of different sodium antagonistic drugs in comparison to the calcium antagonist verapamil. AB - The hemodynamic effects of intravenous class I and class IV antiarrhythmic drugs were investigated at different doses in comparison. In open-chest rats hemodynamic measurements in the intact circulation and isovolumic registrations 5 min after infusion of flecainide (2, 4, 8 mg/kg), disopyramide (1, 2, 4, 8 mg/kg), quinidine (5 and 10 mg/kg) and verapamil (0.35, 0.7, 1.5 mg/kg) were compared to saline controls. After clinically usual doses all investigated drugs had no effects on stroke volume, cardiac output, dp/dtmax and systemic resistance. The isovolumic pressure generating capacity of the left ventricle was not decreased at these doses. High intravenous doses of the drugs, however, caused a significant depression of myocardial performance (pressure generating capacity). Furthermore, flecainide decreased mean aortic pressure and heart rate, while disopyramide had no significant effect on the peripheral circulation. Blocking of the autonomic system (1 mg/kg propranolol and 0.1 mg/kg atropine) did not change significantly the action of disopyramide. Quinidine lowered heart rate and pressures. Verapamil reduced the heart rate and tended to decrease the mean aortic pressure. Besides the negative inotropic action of high doses the different hemodynamic profiles of class I and class IV antiarrhythmic drugs might be of importance for intravenous application in patients with left ventricular dysfunction. PMID- 2515862 TI - Effects of enprostil on cardiovascular and respiratory parameters in the dog, and on hematologic parameters in the rat, monkey, and human. AB - The effects of enprostil (+/-)-7-[(1R*,2R*,3R*)-3-hydroxy-2-[(E)-(3R*)-3-hydroxy 4-phenoxy-1- butenyl]-5-oxocyclopentyl]-4,5-heptadienoate) were studied on cardiovascular and respiratory parameters in the dog and on hematologic parameters in the rat, monkey, and human. Anesthetized dogs were instrumented to allow measurement of heart rate, systemic blood pressure, respiratory rate or tracheal pressure, and ventricular contractile force after intragastric (i.g.) or intravenous (i.v.) administration of enprostil in the presence or absence of autonomic challenges. The effects of intraduodenal (i.d.) enprostil on arterial and venous PO2, PCO2, and pH; respiratory rate, flow rate, and volume; blood pressure (b.p.); and heart rate were also examined. Enprostil i.v. (0.3-10 micrograms/kg) significantly increased tracheal pressure in a dose-dependent manner, but minimally altered b.p., heart rate, and ventricular contractile force. Enprostil i.v. (1-10 micrograms/kg) significantly inhibited pressor and depressor responses to several autonomic challenge agents at the highest dose level, indicative of a nonspecific inhibitory effect on b.p. responses. Cardiovascular effects of enprostil (1-100 micrograms/kg i.g.) were absent. Enprostil (10-3,000 micrograms/kg i.d.) had no noteworthy effects on respiratory parameters in the dog. Platelet aggregation effects of enprostil were studied in vitro using platelet rich plasma (PRP) from the rat, monkey, and human; whole blood clotting time and prothrombin time after oral enprostil were studied in the rat; and ex vivo effects on platelet activation were studied in humans.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515863 TI - Uniform elimination pattern for glibenclamide in healthy Caucasian males. AB - It has been shown, that the elimination rate of intravenously administered tolbutamide shows considerable interindividual variation, due to strong genetic influence. These pharmacogenetic differences in the metabolic clearance rate of tolbutamide may result in drug failure in fast-eliminators, and it may cause an increased incidence of side effects in slow-eliminators. It is not known whether different "pharmacogenetics" exist for other sulfonylurea drugs. Therefore, we have injected glibenclamide (0.02 mg/kg body weight) intravenously in 52 male, normal weight, healthy volunteers. Serum glibenclamide levels were followed for up to 24 h. The terminal phase half-life of glibenclamide was 2.46 +/- 0.67 h (mean +/- SD), total drug clearance was 48.7 +/- 11.0 ml.min-1 and the slow disposition phase rate constant was 0.30 +/- 0.08 h-1. From the individual data of each subject frequency histograms were developed for these and other kinetic parameters and tested with a Kolmogoroff-Smirnoff-test for unimodal normal distribution. There was no significant (p greater than 0.05) deviation from the unimodal normal distribution for these parameters. In contrast to the pharmacogenetics of tolbutamide metabolism the present data indicate that glibenclamide follows an uniform elimination pattern in healthy caucasian males. PMID- 2515864 TI - Glibenclamide steady state plasma levels during concomitant vinpocetine administration in type II diabetic patients. AB - The influence of vinpocetine on glibenclamide steady state plasma levels was investigated in 18 patients suffering from type II diabetes and symptoms of dementia. During the study patients continued to follow their individual scheme of glibenclamide intake and 10 mg vinpocetine were given t.i.d. from day 2 to 5. Glibenclamid as well as glucose plasma levels were repeatedly determined on the first day of the trial and compared to those on the fifth day where patients had received additional vinpocetine medication for four days. Time point comparisons were employed to exclude clinically relevant changes of glibenclamide bioavailability and kinetics. The data of this trial show that vinpocetine does not interfere with the kinetics of glibenclamide. Thus, it can be concluded that the comedication with vinpocetine does not represent a potential risk for a possible drug interaction in case of antidiabetics treatment with glibenclamide. PMID- 2515865 TI - [Two-dimensional electrophoretic study of monoclonal gammopathies and cold agglutinins associated with a chronic hemolytic anemia]. AB - Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DGE) associated with a very sensitive silver staining is one of the most powerful technique available for protein analysis. Proteins are separated in the first dimension by isoelectric focusing in a pH gradient, and in the second dimension by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Proteins are thus separated according to their charge and to their size. The high resolution of 2-DGE allows the analysis of complex mixture of proteins with a great reproducibility. More than hundred different proteins can be individualized after 2-DGE of plasma or serum samples. Using this technique, we analysed samples obtained from normal donors and from patients with different gammopathies. Our results confirm that the heavy chains of immunoglobulins are easily detected and that the alpha, gamma and mu chains are clearly differentiated from one another. The typical polyclonal heavy and light chains appear as indiscrete spots after staining of the gels. On the contrary, the monoclonal chains appear as discrete spots. Monoclonal heavy chains have a restricted charge heterogeneity. We also analysed cold agglutinins, partially purified from plasma of three patients showing evidence of chronic hemolysis, a positive direct antiglobulin test of the complement type and anti-I autoantibodies. The 2-DGE have clearly demonstrated that these cold agglutinins were monoclonal IgM, when these later were not detectable by immunofixation electrophoresis. We think that the 2-DGE is a very usefull specialized aid to the analysis of such particular immunohematological problems. PMID- 2515866 TI - Biological studies on 1,2-benzisothiazole derivatives. II. Evaluation of antibacterial, antifungal and DNA-damaging activities of 3-amino, 3-acylamino, 3 alkylaminoacylamino derivatives. AB - The in vitro evaluation of antibacterial, antifungal and DNA-damaging properties of some 3-amino, 3-acylamino and 3-alkylaminoacylamino derivatives of 1,2 benzisothiazole is described. Compounds 1-8, 38 and 48 exhibited a selective antifungal activity while the other compounds did not show any significative activity. None of the compounds tested turned out to have any genotoxic properties. PMID- 2515867 TI - Anti-Ia treatment modulates specific and polyclonal antibody responses in Trypanosoma cruzi-infected mice. AB - Experimental Chagas' disease--infection of mice with the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi--has been shown to increase the number of Ia-bearing cells in the spleen and the lymph nodes. The majority of these Ia-positive cells were Ig+ and included in the large cell fraction of lymphoid organs from T. cruzi-infected animals indicating that they were activated B cells. These data are consistent with the polyclonal B-cell activation occurring during acute and chronic T. cruzi infection. The levels of secreted natural antibodies, of both IgM and IgG isotypes, were significantly increased in the sera of the infected animals. The present communication demonstrates that in vivo anti-Ia treatment of C3H/HeJ mice infected with the CL strain of T. cruzi suppressed the polyclonal B-cell activation, affecting all the isotypes studied, including IgM, IgG2a and IgG2b, whose levels are predominantly increased during T. cruzi infection. In contrast to the decreased secretion of IgG autoantibodies, the levels of IgM autoantibodies were much less affected. The anti-Ia treatment totally abolished the specific anti-parasite response despite the fact that a pool of Ia-Ig positive cells remained after treatment. PMID- 2515868 TI - A common anti-DNA antibody idiotype and anti-phospholipid antibodies in sera from patients with schistosomiasis and filariasis with and without nephritis. AB - The serum concentration of a public idiotype (16/6 ID), originally identified on a human hybridoma-derived monoclonal anti-DNA antibody, was raised in patients with S. mansoni and filariasis with or without nephritis, compared to patients with S. haematobium (in which nephritis does not occur) or idiopathic nephritis not associated with infection. There was no significant difference in 16/6 ID levels between patients with or without renal disease, whether associated with S. mansoni or filarial infection. The 16/6 ID-positive antibodies did not bind to native or denatured DNA, using competitive fluid-phase inhibition studies. Anti cardiolipin antibody (ACA) concentration was increased in patients with either S. mansoni or filarial infection. In filariasis, both IgG and IgM ACA isotypes were elevated, irrespective of the presence of nephritis. In S. mansoni infection, IgA ACA were limited to patients with renal disease, and IgG ACA isotype to patients without overt nephritis. Both isotypes of anti-cardiolipin antibody correlated with levels of the 16/6 ID in patients with S. mansoni or filariasis. The 16/6 idiotype was therefore a feature of chronic helminthic infection, but was not related to anti-DNA antibody levels or specificity. The occurrence of nephritis as a complication of these infections was not related to the prevalence of the 16/6 idiotype. PMID- 2515869 TI - IgG class anti-cardiolipin antibody as a possible marker for evaluating fetal risk in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. AB - To identify the correlation between incidence of anti-phospholipid antibodies and fetal prognosis in pregnant SLE patients, we measured the amount of anti cardiolipin antibody in their sera, using solid-phase enzyme immunoassay (EIA) methods. Findings in the group having poor obstetric results (fetal loss group) and in those with a history of full-term births (live birth group) were compared with regard to other anti-phospholipid antibodies. The incidence of IgG class anti-cardiolipin antibody was 60% in the fetal loss group and 19% in the live birth group, (P less than 0.05). The incidence of the other anti-phospholipid antibodies, including lupus anticoagulant and biological false-positive serological test for syphilis (BFP-STS), did not differ significantly between the two groups. Therefore, the presence of IgG class anti-cardiolipin antibody may prove to be a useful marker for evaluating fetal risk in SLE patients. PMID- 2515870 TI - Significance of antigen, drug, and tumor cell targets in the preclinical evaluation of doxorubicin, daunorubicin, methotrexate, and mitomycin-C monoclonal antibody immunoconjugates. AB - We tested drug monoclonal antibody immunoconjugates in vitro in 72 h 3H-thymidine assays and in vivo in athymic mice bearing human tumor xenografts of the same target cells. Experimental arms included control, monoclonal antibody, drug, drug + antibody, the test immunoconjugate, and a negative control immunoconjugate with an equivalent molar amount of drug for in vitro experiments, and the amount of drug conjugated to 500 micrograms of antibody in the animal experiments. Monoclonal antibodies included T101, an IgG2a that reacts with a rapidly modulating antigen, 9.2.27, an IgG2a that reacts with a slowly modulating antigen, and ME7, an IgG1 that reacts with a slowly modulating antigen. Cells used in testing included MOLT-4 (T lymphoma), 8392 (B lymphoma), and M21 (melanoma). Drugs tested were doxorubicin, daunorubicin, methotrexate, and mitomycin-C. M21 cells were resistant to daunorubicin in vitro but were inhibited by the 9.2.27 daunorubicin immunoconjugate. T101, 9.2.27, and ME7 cis-aconitate anthracycline immunoconjugates and mitomycin-C-glutarate immunoconjugates were specifically cytotoxic only for antigen positive cells in vitro and were superior to free drug in vivo. These results confirm that antigen specific-cytotoxic drug immunoconjugates can be produced that are superior to the same dose of free drug. However, each monoclonal antibody drug target system is unique and must be well characterized for appropriate interpretation of data. PMID- 2515871 TI - Effect of systemic administration of mouse recombinant interferon-gamma on the lung tumor metastases in mice. AB - The purpose of this study was to examine the effective anti-metastatic activity by multiple i.v. administrations of mouse recombinant interferon-gamma (IFN gamma) against pulmonary metastases of 3LL or B16-BL6 melanoma cells after surgical excision of primary tumors. Multiple treatments with IFN-gamma reduced effectively the incidence of pulmonary tumor metastases. Repeated 4 consecutive treatment modalities with IFN-gamma showed remarkable reduction of lung tumor colonies, and also rendered alveolar macrophages (AM) cytotoxic against B16-BL6 cells. In contrast, 14 consecutive administrations of IFN-gamma at any doses (10(2) and 10(3) U/mouse) could not activate macrophages to become cytotoxic, but were effective in regressing metastases. Thus, antimetastatic activity of IFN gamma may be due to the stimulation of host immune defense systems such as induction of tumoricidal macrophages, presumably the direct antiproliferative action to tumor cells, or both actions under the appropriate administration conditions. We found that the systemic administration of IFN-gamma under appropriate multiple treatment modalities results in the reduction of the lung metastases and can activate AM to become tumor cytotoxic at relatively low doses (10(2) U). High-dose IFN-gamma in the multiple administration schedule was also effective for the reduction of lung tumor colonies, but strongly suppressed the nonspecific immune function and could not activate tumoricidal properties of AM. PMID- 2515872 TI - Relationship of severity of dementia to caregiving stressors. AB - In studies of individual differences and longitudinal changes in stress and coping among dementia caregivers, assessing severity of patient impairment is critically important. It is proposed that with the progression of dementia, cognitive impairment may steadily increase, but other stressful behavioral symptoms peak at various stages of dementia. Cross-sectional data from 49 caregiving families and longitudinal follow-up data from 48 families suggest that instrumental self-care deficits begin early in dementia, and basic self-care deficits increase with dementia severity, but that many distressing behavioral symptoms decrease in late dementia. Assessments of dementia patient severity should be multidimensional, and increases and decreases in various dementia patient stressors over time should be considered as factors influencing caregiver coping. PMID- 2515873 TI - Longitudinal impact of interhousehold caregiving on adult children's mental health. AB - The wear-and-tear hypothesis of caregiving (the longer care provided, the more psychological strain on caregivers) was examined using panel survey data from 112 adult children providing interhousehold care to an impaired elderly parent. Measures included subjective caregiving stress and perceived caregiving effectiveness ("wear") and depression and affect balance ("tear"). Contrary to the hypothesis, data revealed variability in children's adaptation to caregiving, improvement rather than deterioration being the norm. In a recursive path model, both subjective stress and perceived effectiveness were significant predictors of changes in depression. Depression was not significantly related to duration of caregiving. Discussion suggests that future researchers consider other types of caregivers and care settings, factors predicting variability in caregivers' adaptation over time, and changes as well as stability in care arrangements. PMID- 2515875 TI - Bibliography of the current world literature. PMID- 2515874 TI - Hassles and uplifts of giving care to a family member with dementia. AB - The role of daily caregiving stressors (hassles) and small caregiving satisfactions (uplifts) in the well-being of 60 family caregivers was investigated. Hassles and uplifts in 4 domains of caregiving were examined, and direct effects of hassles, uplifts on caregivers' social and psychological well being, as well as the interactive and net effects of hassles and uplifts, were assessed. Hassles associated with care recipients' behavior demonstrated strongest associations with well-being. Women and caregivers to socially responsive yet behaviorally inappropriate care recipients reported more behavior and cognitive hassles. Uplifts associated with assistance in activities of daily living and with care recipients' behavior were related to well-being, with more uplifts related to greater, rather than less, depression. More intensely involved caregivers reported more of these uplifts. Net effects in the hypothesized direction were found, but no interactive effects emerged. PMID- 2515876 TI - HIV infection is associated with the spontaneous production of interleukin-1 (IL 1) in vivo and with an abnormal release of IL-1 alpha in vitro. AB - Interleukin-1 (IL-1) is not constitutively produced by normal human monocytes. We have investigated the production of cell-associated IL-1 in uncultured unstimulated adherent monocytes from HIV-infected patients, which reflects ongoing generation of IL-1 by the cells in vivo. High levels of cell-associated IL-1 activity and of cell-associated IL-1 alpha and IL-1 beta antigens were found in monocytes from HIV-infected patients as compared with those found in monocytes from normal individuals. Amounts of cell-associated IL-1 were high in patients with AIDS and in patients from Centers for Disease Control groups II and III. Serum-free culture for 24 h of monocytes from HIV-infected individuals in the absence of lipopolysaccharides (LPS) resulted in spontaneous release of IL-1 activity from the cells whereas no release occurred upon culture of normal cells. Stimulation of monocytes with LPS induced the release of IL-1 alpha and IL-1 beta from cells of infected patients. Only IL-1 beta was released from cells of normal individuals. Thus, circulating monocytes from HIV-infected patients are triggered to produce IL-1 in vivo. The present study also indicates that HIV infection is associated with an acquired defect in the intracellular processes regulating IL-1 secretion. PMID- 2515877 TI - Association between intrathecal anti-HIV-1 immunoglobulin G synthesis and occurrence of HIV-1 in cerebrospinal fluid. AB - The levels of antibodies to HIV-1 and the occurrence of HIV-1 were determined in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and the blood of 60 people in various stages of HIV 1 infection. Intrathecal synthesis of anti-HIV-1 immunoglobulin (Ig) G was detectable at a low frequency in individuals with normal immunological parameters, and in the majority of patients with various degrees of immunodeficiency. The intrathecal production of antibodies to HIV-1 was strongly associated with the recovery of the virus from CSF. A relationship between high anti-HIV-1 IgG levels and occurrence of HIV-1 was also found in blood. Patients without overt neurological symptoms exhibited intrathecal synthesis of anti-HIV-1 IgG as often as those with such symptoms. These findings suggest that intrathecal synthesis of antibodies to HIV-1 is related to a persistent HIV-1 antigenic stimulation in the central nervous system (CNS). HIV-1 often seems to elicit a humoral immune response in the CNS, without concomitant overt neurological symptoms. PMID- 2515878 TI - HIV-1 and hepatitis B transmission in Sudan. AB - A seroepidemiologic survey was conducted among 773 male soldiers living in five urban locations in Sudan to study the prevalence of and risk factors for HIV-1 and hepatitis B transmission. Twenty-eight per cent of the study population were born and raised in southern Sudan, an area bordering Kenya, Zaire and Uganda, whilst 72% of the study subjects were from northern Sudan. Seventy-eight per cent of the study population had serologic evidence of past hepatitis B infection, and 13 soldiers were confirmed positive for HIV-1 antibody. All 13 HIV-positive soldiers had recently been deployed in southern Sudan. Multivariate analysis indicated an association between living in southern Sudan and both hepatitis B (odds ratio 8.2) and HIV-1 infection (odds ratio 14). Additionally, sexual relations with prostitutes (odds ratio 1.5) and medical injections for schistosomiasis (odds ratio 2.72) were independent predictors of hepatitis B markers in this military population. The findings of this study suggest that sexual promiscuity is a risk factor for hepatitis B transmission in Sudan. They also indicate one possible route for the spread of HIV-1 from central to northern Africa. PMID- 2515879 TI - HIV infection in a high prevalence hemodialysis unit. AB - The number of intravenous drugs users (IVDUs) developing end-stage renal disease at our institution increased 400% between 1981 and 1987. During this period the total number of IVDUs in our catchment area remained stable and referral patterns to our hospital were unchanged. A serologic, clinical and risk-factor survey for HIV infection was conducted in our maintenance hemodialysis unit with the objective of evaluating the interrelationship between HIV infection and the increasing incidence of renal failure in IVDUs. The risk of nosocomial transmission of HIV in a hemodialysis unit with an expected high prevalence of infection was also investigated. The effect of HIV seropositivity on the clinical course of patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis was evaluated prospectively. Twenty-seven (39%) out of 70 maintenance hemodialysis patients tested were seropositive for HIV. Twenty-three (88%) out of 26 IVDUs receiving dialysis were seropositive for HIV. Despite marked CD4 cell depletion (mean CD4 cell count 225), none of the seropositive patients had AIDS when first evaluated and only one developed AIDS during 12 months of follow-up. None of the dialysis staff members or dialysis patients without HIV risk factors was seropositive for HIV. IVDUs who develop end-stage renal disease appear to have a high rate of infection with HIV. We can expect that the number of HIV-infected dialysis patients will continue to increase. Fortunately, even in a high prevalence hemodialysis unit, the risk of nosocomial transmission of HIV appears to be low. PMID- 2515880 TI - Serum thymidine kinase--a marker of bone marrow toxicity during treatment with zidovudine. AB - Serum thymidine kinase (S-TK) was measured weekly in 16 randomly selected patients with AIDS or AIDS-related complex (ARC; Centers for Disease Control group IV A or group IV C-2) who participated in a controlled study of the efficacy of zidovudine therapy. S-TK increased significantly (P less than 0.01) in the zidovudine group, whereas it remained stable in the placebo (control) group. On the basis of this observation, the value of S-TK measurements as a predictor of bone marrow toxicity during zidovudine therapy was investigated in 42 patients with AIDS or ARC who received zidovudine as part of their usual treatment. There was a significant association between S-TK, haemoglobin and neutrophil counts measured after the first 4 weeks of therapy and the risk of developing bone marrow toxicity during the following 6 months. Combined, measurements of S-TK and neutrophil counts seem to be well suited for the identification of patients who have a high probability for developing bone marrow toxicity during zidovudine treatment. PMID- 2515881 TI - Disseminated cat-scratch disease in a patient with AIDS. AB - A patient with AIDS developed subcutaneous nodules and associated osteolytic lesions with negative stains and cultures for bacteria, fungi and parasites. Flucloxacillin was not effective but treatment with vancomycin was associated with improvement. Six months later the patient became severely ill, with fever, malaise and multiple skin and laryngeal papules. Cat-scratch disease was diagnosed from the typical epithelioid angiomatosis seen in skin biopsies with bacterium-like structures in the Warthin-Starry stain. Retrospectively these typical structures were also seen in earlier biopsies. All lesions improved after therapy with erythromycin had been instituted. PMID- 2515882 TI - Prevalence of HIV-1 in east African lorry drivers. AB - Sixty-eight lorry drivers and their assistants were examined for evidence of infection with HIV-1 because of their association and regular contact with prostitutes. Out of a total of 68 drivers, 24 (35.2%) were serologically found to be HIV-1 positive. Epidemiological evidence demonstrated a wide travel history involving seven different countries served by the port of Mombasa. History of other sexually transmitted disorders were significantly higher in HIV seropositive individuals. The data presented here further support the hypothesis that a major route of heterosexual transmission of HIV in Africa is dissemination through a group such as lorry drivers and their assistants, whose behaviour puts them at risk of acquiring sexually transmitted diseases. PMID- 2515883 TI - HTLV-I and HIV-1-associated neurologic abnormalities; syphilis as a confounding factor. PMID- 2515884 TI - Incidence and titer of anti-rev antibody in HIV infection. PMID- 2515885 TI - Nocardia, Mycobacteria and AIDS. PMID- 2515886 TI - HIV infection in French prostitutes. PMID- 2515887 TI - The T-cell receptor in HIV infection. PMID- 2515888 TI - Unusual properties of a cold-labile fraction of Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) brain microtubules. AB - A cold-labile fraction of microtubules with unusual properties was isolated from the brain of the Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua). The yield was low, approximately six times lower than that for bovine brain microtubules. This was mainly caused by the presence of a large amount of cold-stable microtubules, which were not broken down during the disassembly step in the temperature-dependent assembly disassembly isolation procedure and were therefore lost. The isolated cold-labile cod microtubules contained usually only a low amount of microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs). Three high molecular mass proteins were found, of which one was recognized as MAP2. Cod MAP2 differed from mammalian brain MAP2; it was not heat stable and had a slightly higher molecular mass. In contrast to mammalian MAPs, MAP1 was not found in the cold-labile fraction of microtubules. A new heat-labile MAP of higher molecular mass (400 kilodaltons) was however present, as well as a heat-stable protein of slightly lower molecular mass than MAP2. These MAPs showed similar tubulin-binding characteristics as bovine brain MAPs, since they coassembled with taxol-assembled bovine brain microtubules consisting of pure bovine tubulin. In spite of the fact that Ca2+ bound equally to cod and porcine tubulins, it did not inhibit cod microtubule assembly even at high concentrations (greater than 1 mM). In contrast, rings, spirals, and macrotubules were formed. The results show that there are major differences between this fraction of cod microtubules and microtubules from mammalian brain. PMID- 2515889 TI - Neurogenesis of the peripheral nervous system in Drosophila embryos: DNA replication patterns and cell lineages. AB - Cell lineages that give rise to the PNS were studied using the thymidine analog 5 bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU) to visualized DNA replication immunocytochemically. The precursors of the PNS in the body segments of Drosophila embryos replicate their DNA in a spatially and temporally stereotyped pattern. The sequence of DNA replication within developing sensory organs suggests particular lineage relationships of the cells that constitute a sensory organ, i.e., neuron and associated support cells. In embryos that are mutant for the achaete-scute complex or daughterless, in which most or all of the PNS is missing, no BrdU labeled cells were found in the appropriate regions, suggesting that these PNS precursors either do not form or fail to replicate. Thus, the BrdU technique allows determination as to whether a mutation affects the PNS precursors or terminal differentiation. PMID- 2515890 TI - [Alzheimer's disease and amyloid beta-protein]. PMID- 2515891 TI - Common structural changes accompany the functional inactivation of HPr by seryl phosphorylation or by serine to aspartate substitution. AB - Although many proteins are known to be regulated via reversible phosphorylation, little is known about the mechanism by which the covalent modification of seryl, threonyl, or tyrosyl residues alters the activities of the target systems. To address this question, modified versions of Bacillus subtilus HPr, a protein component of the bacterial phosphotransferase system, have been studied by 1H NMR spectroscopy. Phosphorylation at Ser46 or a Ser to Asp substitution at this position inactivates HPr [Reizer, J., Sutrina, S. L., Saier, M. H., Stewart, G. C., Peterkofsky, A., & Reddy, P. (1989) EMBO J. 8, 2111-2120]. Two-dimensional spectra of these two modified proteins display nearly identical proton chemical shifts that differ significantly from those observed in the spectra of the unphosphorylated, wild-type protein and of functionally active HPr mutants. The results demonstrate that the functional inactivation of HPr brought about by the serine to aspartate mutation is accompanied by the same structural changes that occur when HPr is phosphorylated at Ser46. PMID- 2515892 TI - Function of threonine-55 in the carbamoyl phosphate binding site of Escherichia coli aspartate transcarbamoylase. AB - Carbamoyl phosphate is held in the active site of Escherichia coli aspartate transcarbamoylase by a variety of interactions with specific side chains of the enzyme. In particular, the carbonyl group of carbamoyl phosphate interacts with Thr-55, Arg-105, and His-134. Site-specific mutagenesis was used to create a mutant version of the enzyme in which Thr-55 was replaced by alanine in order to help define the role of this residue in the catalytic mechanism. The Thr-55--- Ala holoenzyme exhibits a 4.7-fold reduction in maximal observed specific activity, no alteration in aspartate cooperativity, and a small reduction in carbamoyl phosphate cooperativity. The mutation also causes 14-fold and 35-fold increases in the carbamoyl phosphate and aspartate concentrations required for half the maximal observed specific activity, respectively. Circular dichroism spectroscopy has shown that saturating carbamoyl phosphate does not induce a conformational change in the Thr-55----Ala holoenzyme as it does for the wild type holoenzyme. The kinetic properties of the Thr-55----Ala catalytic subunit are altered to a greater extent than the mutant holoenzyme. The mutant catalytic subunit cannot be saturated by either substrate under the experimental conditions. Furthermore, as opposed to the wild-type catalytic subunit, the Thr 55----Ala catalytic subunit shows cooperativity for aspartate and can be activated by N-(phosphonoacetyl)-L-aspartate in the presence of low concentrations of aspartate and high concentrations of carbamoyl phosphate. As deduced by circular dichroism spectroscopy, the conformation of the Thr-55----Ala catalytic subunit in the absence of active-site ligands is distinctly different from the wild-type catalytic subunit.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515893 TI - Estradiol influences on pattern of gonadotropin secretion in bovine males during the period of changed responses to estradiol feedback in age-matched females. AB - When ovaries are removed prior to puberty, administration of exogenous 17 beta estradiol (E2) decreases concentrations of luteinizing hormone (LH) below that of ovariectomized heifers receiving no E2. Subsequent to the time age-matched intact heifers reach puberty, exogenous E2 increases secretion of LH in ovariectomized heifers above that of ovariectomized heifers receiving no E2. The hypothesis that E2 would inhibit gonadotropin secretion in bovine males during the time E2 no longer inhibited gonadotropin secretion in age-matched bovine females was tested. Males (n = 12) and females (n = 12) were gonadectomized at 241 +/- 3 days of age, and half of each sex (6 males and 6 females) were administered a 27-cm E2 implant. An additional group of males (n = 6) and females (n = 6) remained intact and served as controls. Blood samples were collected (to quantify LH and follicle stimulating hormone [FSH]) from all animals at 15-min intervals for 24 h at 1, 7, 13, 17, 21, 25, 29, 33, 37, and 43 wk after gonadectomy. Additional blood samples were collected twice weekly from control females to monitor progesterone and onset of corpus luteum function (451 days of age). E2 inhibited frequency of pulses of LH (p less than 0.01) and decreased mean concentration of LH and FSH (p less than 0.01) at Week 1 in gonadectomized males treated with E2 compared to gonadectomized males not administered E2.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515894 TI - Immunohistochemical localization of prostaglandin endoperoxide synthase in human fetal membranes and decidua. AB - Prostaglandins play an important role during the maintenance of pregnancy and the initiation of parturition. Prostaglandin endoperoxide synthase activity has been demonstrated in human fetal membranes and decidua. Using immunohistochemical techniques, we identified in these tissues the cell types that contain prostaglandin endoperoxide synthase. A total of 33 specimens, ranging from 8 wk to 42 wk gestation, were studied. Decidualized stromal cells stained the most intensely and consistently of all cell types. Cytotrophoblast of the chorion and early placental villi and syncytotrophoblast of all gestational ages demonstrated a lighter, more variable staining pattern. Regardless of gestational age, amnion stained in a heterogeneous fashion, with some cells demonstrating an intense staining and other cells having no staining. There were no observable differences in laboring compared to nonlaboring term specimens. In summary, the specific cell types that contain immunoreactive prostaglandin endoperoxide synthase have been identified in fetal membranes and decidua. PMID- 2515895 TI - Hormonal regulation of free intracellular calcium concentrations in small and large ovine luteal cells. AB - The second messengers mediating hormonal regulation of the corpus luteum are incompletely defined, particularly for the primary luteolytic hormone prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha). In this study, hormonally induced changes in free intracellular calcium concentrations were measured in individual small and large ovine luteal cells by using computer-assisted microscopic imaging of fura-2 fluorescence. This technique could readily detect transient increases in free calcium concentrations within both small and large luteal cells after treatment with 1 microM of the calcium ionophore, A23187. Treatment with PGF2 alpha (1 microM) caused a dramatic increase in free calcium concentrations in large (before = 73 +/- 2 nM; 2 min after PGF2 alpha = 370 +/- 21 nM; n = 33 cells) but not in small (before = 66 +/- 4 nM; 2 min after PGF2 alpha = 69 +/- 8 nM; n = 12 cells) luteal cells. The magnitude and timing of the calcium response was dose- and time-dependent. The PGF2 alpha-induced increase in free intracellular calcium is probably due to influx of extracellular calcium, since inclusion of inorganic calcium channel blockers (100 microM manganese or cobalt) attenuated the response to PGF2 alpha and removal of extracellular calcium eliminated the response. In contrast to PGF2 alpha, luteinizing hormone (LH) (100 ng/ml) caused no change in intracellular levels of free calcium in small or large luteal cells, even though this dose of LH stimulated (p less than 0.01) progesterone production by small luteal cells. Therefore, alterations in free calcium concentrations could be the intracellular second message mediating the luteolytic action of PGF2 alpha in the large ovine luteal cell. PMID- 2515897 TI - [Interspecies comparison of pharmacokinetic parameters of fotemustine (nitrosourea S 10036): mice, rats, monkeys, dogs and man]. PMID- 2515896 TI - Tetrodotoxin-insensitive relaxation of coronary arterial smooth muscle to electrical stimulation: possible involvement of a dopaminergic mechanism. AB - Experiments were designed to determine the mechanism by which electrical stimulation causes tetrodotoxin-insensitive relaxation in isolated arteries. Rings of left anterior descending coronary arteries of dogs, pigs and calves were suspended in organ chambers between platinum electrodes. Experiments were performed after treatment with phenoxybenzamine and in the presence of propranolol. Calcium-free solution and calcium antagonists reduced the relaxation. Chemical denervation with 6-hydroxydopamine reduced the relaxation induced by electrical stimulation; in the presence of pargyline, the inhibitor of monoamine oxidase, it was virtually abolished. The nonselective dopaminergic antagonist droperidol and the selective DA1-dopaminergic antagonist SKF R83566 caused a concentration-dependent inhibition of the relaxation; the DA2 dopaminergic antagonist domperidone was ineffective. High concentrations of dopamine induced relaxation of the coronary smooth muscle; the relaxation was inhibited by SKF R83566 but not by droperidol. These results suggest that electrical stimulation causes relaxation by liberating an endogenous vasodilator substance, which acts on DA1-dopaminergic receptors of the coronary smooth muscle. PMID- 2515898 TI - [A case of multiple plasmacytomas of the bone]. AB - We recently experienced one case of multiple plasmacytomas of the bone (IgM lambda type), a 70-year-old female who had five foci of bony destruction for a three-year follow-up period after surgery of solitary plasmacytoma of the rib. A diagnosis for plasma cell tumor was discussed in detail. PMID- 2515899 TI - A rapid method for isolation of human hemoglobin benzo[a]pyrene diol epoxide derived adducts using high performance liquid chromatography. AB - A method is described to isolate rapidly human hemoglobin-benzo[a]pyrene diol epoxide adducts. A combination of 300 A pore size C4 reversed phase HPLC to effect separation of adducted protein from native protein, and mu-bore C18 reversed phase HPLC to isolate and partially characterize proteolytic peptide adducts (by UV), was used. PMID- 2515900 TI - Rapid determination of the benzodiazepine antagonist flumazenil, Ro 15-1788, by high performance liquid chromatography. AB - A sensitive (2 ng/mL) and specific method for the determination of the benzodiazepine antagonist Ro 15-1788 or flumazenil is described. Following a simple extraction, the compound is analyzed by reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and detection at 245 nm. The method was applied to plasma specimens collected from patients receiving a single dose of this drug. PMID- 2515901 TI - The acentriolar state of the Drosophila cell lines 1182. AB - A Drosophila melanogaster cell line devoid of centrioles has been recently described. In order to achieve an easier characterization of these acentriolar cells, we used the monoclonal antibody Bx 63 of M. Frasch which recognizes the Drosophila centrosome. Although centrosomes are detected at every mitotic pole in Drosophila cells with centrioles, no such structure has been observed in 1182-4 acentriolar cells. The antigenic material is, however, present in these cells. Moreover, we noticed a certain proportion of acentriolar cells in 4 other 1182 lines. The lack of centrioles previously found only in the 1182-4 cells seems therefore not accidental and should be linked to their particular origin. PMID- 2515902 TI - Diazepam induces abnormal mitosis in the early Drosophila embryo. AB - Drosophila embryos, because of their high proportion of dividing nuclei, offer many advantages for the study of the mitotic cycle. In the present study we combined immunofluorescence with interference contrast techniques to follow centrosome and spindle behavior in embryos exposed to diazepam during the first stages of development. Exposure to 100 micrograms/ml of diazepam produced polyploid and aneuploid figures resulting from the unusual fusion of one or more adjacent spindles. Diazepam also causes the inhibition of centrosome shifting and induces the formation of monopolar spindles during the metaphase-anaphase transition. PMID- 2515903 TI - Influence of nutritional status, age and sex on infant hair zinc concentration. AB - 1. Zinc concentration was measured in hair samples from 57 infants (27 boys and 30 girls) aged 7 to 24 months. Twenty-eight infants were considered eutrophic and 29 presented chronic and severe malnutrition. 2. Hair segments less than 3-cm long were cut close to the scalp in the occipital area and washed in deionized water and acetone. Zinc levels were measured by neutron-activation. 3. Hair zinc concentration decreased with age in both eutrophic and malnourished infants from 160 micrograms/g at 7 months to 90 micrograms/g at 24 months. 4. No statistically significant difference in hair zinc concentration was detected between eutrophic and malnourished infants (148 +/- 60 vs 128 +/- 57 micrograms/g hair, mean +/- SD) or between sexes. PMID- 2515904 TI - Experimental murine schistosomiasis mansoni: hyperplasia of the mono-macrophage cell lineage and stimulation of myeloid proliferation by peripheral macrophages. AB - 1. Normal and schistosome-infected mice were similar in terms of the total number of bone marrow myeloid cell precursors and their proliferative capacity in vitro when stimulated with supernatants of L-929 cells containing M-CSF. 2. Delayed differentiation of bone marrow neutrophil granulocytes and blood monocytosis of infected animals were consistent with a modification in the differentiation of bone marrow myeloid precursors, favoring the production of a mono-macrophage cell lineage. 3. Macrophages isolated from periovular granulomas secreted a considerable stimulatory activity for the proliferation of the mono-macrophagic cell lineage, whereas peritoneal macrophages from the same animals had only a very low stimulatory activity. 4. We conclude that systemic hyperplasia of mono macrophagic cells in schistosomiasis may be related to their increased release from the bone marrow and to their peripheral amplification in inflammatory tissue infiltrate as a consequence of the local production of stimulatory activity for their proliferation. PMID- 2515905 TI - In vitro cytotoxicity of Rhodnius prolixus hemolytic factor and mellitin towards different trypanosomatids. AB - Trypanosoma cruzi strain Y and clone Dm28c and other trypanosomatids were exposed to two lytic agents, Rhodnius prolixus hemolytic factor (RHF) and mellitin, in vitro. In both cases, the result was a significant decrease in the number of parasites after a 30-min treatment at 37 degrees C. RHF and mellitin had distinct activities on different strains and species of trypanosomatids. These observations suggest that RHF may be an important factor in selecting resistant strains of trypanosomes for development in the vector's gut. PMID- 2515906 TI - Effects of both 6-hydroxydopamine-induced and electrolytic lesion of the substantia nigra on the rotational behavior and audiogenic seizures in the rat. AB - 1. Twenty-eight male albino rats were evaluated for audiogenic seizure sensitivity by systematic observation and the recording of behavior by ethological methods. The animals were subjected to high-intensity acoustic stimulation and their behavior was evaluated by reference to an audiogenic severity index (SI). Animals were classified as susceptible (S) or resistant (R) depending on the SI value. R animals were: 1) subjected to chemical lesion of the substantia nigra compacta with 6-hydroxydopamine (6OHDA), followed by SI quantitation, contralateral electrolytic lesion of the substantia nigra reticulata and new SI evaluation (N = 6); 2) a group of control animals (N = 10) received 0.9% saline followed by SI evaluation, contralateral sham (mechanical) lesion and new SI calculation; 3) another group (N = 10) was subjected to unilateral electrolytical lesion of the substantia nigra reticulata and SI evaluation. 2. Effects of asymmetry were observed after chemical or electrolytic lesions, but these alterations correlated only with increased audiogenic sensitivity in rats with electrolytic lesions in the substantia nigra reticulata. No behavioral changes were observed in any of the controls. The amphetamine induced rotational behavior presented a definite left pattern (ipsilateral to the 6OHDA lesion) for the animals with bilateral lesions, with an asymmetry index of 98%, whereas the sham-lesioned controls showed a 60% asymmetry index which was not significant. 3. The relationship between asymmetry and simultaneous audiogenic sensitivity may correspond to changes in the basal ganglia possibly in the hypersensitive postsynaptic portions of the substantia nigra reticulata efferents. PMID- 2515907 TI - Serotonergic mediation of the anxiolytic effect of intracerebrally injected propranolol measured in the elevated plus-maze. AB - The effect of intracerebrally injected propranolol was measured in the elevated plus-maze, an animal model of anxiety. Microinjection of 10 nmol of propranolol into the dorsal midbrain central gray of the rat increased the percentage of open arm entries, without affecting the total number of arm entries. This selective anxiolytic effect of propranolol was antagonized by 10 nmol of ritanserin, also injected into the dorsal midbrain. The same dose of ritanserin, given alone, did not affect the percentage of open arm entries, though it tended to decrease the total number of entries, an indication of unspecific behavioral depression. Since propranolol is a stereospecific antagonist of presynaptic serotonin (5-HT) autoreceptors and ritanserin is a selective blocker of type 2 5-HT receptors, the present results suggest that the anxiolytic action of propranolol in the midbrain central gray is due to release of endogenous 5-HT acting upon 5-HT2 receptors. PMID- 2515908 TI - Effect of adenosine on gonadotropin and prolactin secretion by hemipituitaries in vitro. AB - Incubation of hemipituitaries from male rats (200-220 g) with 10 nM to 1 microM adenosine induced a dose-dependent decrease of the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) into the medium, and increased prolactin (PRL) secretion. The effects of 10 nM adenosine were blocked by 100 nM caffeine, whereas 100 nM caffeine alone had no effect on the release of the hormones. Preincubation of hemipituitaries with 1 microM adenosine also inhibited 10 nM luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH)-induced LH and FSH release by greater than 90%. These data indicate a regulatory role for adenosine in pituitary LH, FSH and PRL release, and also a possible modulatory effect of adenosine on the LHRH-LH and FSH system. PMID- 2515909 TI - Effects of protein-calorie malnutrition on endocrine pancreatic function in young pregnant rats. AB - Oral glucose tolerance test (GTT), insulin secretion after oral glucose load and the insulin to glucose ratio (I/G) during GTT were measured in young (45-50 days old) pregnant and non-pregnant rats fed a normal (25%) or low (6%) protein diet during pregnancy or for a 22-day period. Fasting blood glucose was lower in protein-deficient rats and basal plasma insulin was higher in pregnant control rats than in non-pregnant controls. Protein-deficient rats were intolerant to the oral glucose load. The I/G ratio during GTT was higher in control pregnant rats than in other rats. These results show that young malnourished pregnant rats are glucose intolerant and do not show pregnancy hyperinsulinemia probably as a result of decreased pancreatic capacity to release insulin in response to stimulation. PMID- 2515910 TI - A profile of long-stay psychogeriatric patients. AB - An assessment of 106 long-stay psychogeriatric in-patients in an East London borough was made using the CAPE and supplementary items in order to obtain a comprehensive picture of their needs; 51 long-stay residents in the care of local authority social services provided a comparison. Patients in hospital were found to be more disturbed, more disabled and more dependent than residents in local authority care. PMID- 2515911 TI - Hyperventilation: is it a cause of panic attacks? AB - During transcutaneous PCO2 (PtcCO2) monitoring of 15 freely ambulant patients suffering from panic attacks, all the patients experienced a typical attack. Seven were identified as hyperventilators, as PtcCO2 fell to abnormally low levels during the attack. This group could not be distinguished on the basis of either their usual symptoms of panic or the hyperventilation provocation test. There was no apparent association between absolute levels of PCO2 and the nature of symptoms. The anxiety ratings of hyperventilators were lower than those of non hyperventilators. These data do not support the hypothesis that hyperventilation causes panic attacks or contributes to their severity. Hyperventilation may be better understood as a consequence of panic. PMID- 2515912 TI - Chronic psychosis in Turner's syndrome. Case report and a review. AB - A 59-year-old woman with Turner's syndrome developed epilepsy, diabetes mellitus, chronic psychosis, and subsequently pre-senile dementia. This would endorse the view that psychosis in Turner's syndrome arises through brain damage. PMID- 2515913 TI - Use of adhesive strapping in sport. PMID- 2515914 TI - The nature and incidence of injuries in morris dancers. AB - Morris dancing includes several distinct forms of vigorous traditional dance with about 5000 amateur participants in the UK and Ireland. Questionnaires were sent to over 500 registered morris sides. The response rate was 29 per cent with 129 acute injuries and 47 chronic injuries including one fatality. The commonest acute injuries were to ankle (33 per cent) and calf (22 per cent). The back was the commonest site of chronic injury, with a high contribution from occupational and other sources. Morris dancing is a relatively low-risk activity, but injuries could be prevented by improving the fitness of dancers and selecting safer surfaces to dance on. The severity of injuries could probably be reduced by seeking more and better treatment. PMID- 2515915 TI - In vitro chemopurification of neuroblastoma cells: comparison of 6 hydroxydopamine and ascorbic acid with 4-hydroperoxycyclophosphamide. AB - To develop an effective neuroblastoma (NB) purging condition, we have compared in vitro cytotoxicity of 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) and ascorbic acid, with 4 hydroperoxycyclophosphamide (4-HC) on three NB cell lines (SK-N-BE2, SMS-SAN, and LA-N-1) and also upon human hematopoietic stem cells. Our study included mixing NB cells with 20-fold excess of irradiated bone marrow buffy coat cells to simulate the borderline remission marrow. When NB cells were treated without marrow cells, all three NB cell lines were very sensitive to 6-OHDA; complete inhibition of SK-N-BE2 and SMS-SAN cells was achieved at 10 micrograms/ml, and greater than 4 log inhibition of LA-N-1 was observed at 100 micrograms/ml of 6 OHDA. Addition of marrow cells caused marked reduction of the 6-OHDA-induced cytotoxicity of NB cells, and under similar conditions, colony-forming units granulocyte-macrophage (CFU-GM) growth was not inhibited significantly. In the absence of normal marrow cells, 60 minutes of treatment with 100 microM of 4-HC produced complete inhibition (greater than 4.5 log) of SK-N-BE2 and SMS-SAN cells, greater than 4 log inhibition of LA-N-1 cells, and 97% of CFU-GM. Addition of marrow cells reduced the cytotoxicity of 4-HC, and 100 microM of 4-HC produced 99.8% inhibition of LA-N-1 colony growth. Shortening incubation duration to 30 minutes resulted in further reduction of 4-HC cytotoxicity; 100 microM of 4-HC caused 98.3%, 45%, and 33% inhibition of LA-N-1 cells, marrow CFU-GM, and burst forming units-erythrocytes (BFU-E), respectively. At 200 microM, complete inhibition (greater than 4 log) of LA-N-1 colony growth was noted, and 9.9% of CFU-GM and 9.3% of BFU-E growth was observed. These data favor the use of 4-HC for purging marrow of NB, cells in the clinical autologous marrow transplantation. PMID- 2515916 TI - [Demonstration of direct olfactory projections in the hypothalamus, the mesencephalon and the metencephalon of Microcebus murinus (Primate, Lemurian)]. AB - The efferent projections of the olfactory bulb in Microcebus murinus were identified after transection of the olfactory peduncle and after the revelation of the degenerating fibers by different silver staining methods. Total and partial sections have allowed demonstrating the importance of the two olfactory tracts in the olfactory projection areas. Degenerated fibers and endings were evidence not only in the different telencephalic regions, as classically known, but also in various hypothalamic nuclei (lateral hypothalamus, the suprachiasmatic, posterior supraoptic and mammillary nuclei and in the median eminence) and in several mesencephalic and metencephalic nuclei (ventral tegmental area, interpeduncular and raphe nuclei, and locus coeruleus). In all these structures the degenerate fibers were seen on both sides. The olfactory projections appeared not to be limited to the telencephalic areas. Moreover, the olfactory bulbs seem to be directly connected especially with the vegetative and integrative areas localized in the hypothalamus and the brainstem and particularly with the major aminergic nuclei that play an essential role in the neurovegetative, neuroendocrine and behavioral regulations. PMID- 2515917 TI - Metabolism of and DNA adduct formation by benzo[alpha]pyrene in human skin epithelial cells in vitro pretreated with cytochrome P450 modulators. AB - This study was designed to investigate the effects of four compounds that are shown to influence the cytochrome P450 system, on the metabolism of and DNA adduct formation by benzo[alpha]pyrene (BaP) in human skin epithelial cells in culture. Radiolabeled BaP was used in the metabolism studies, and the levels of metabolites in the ethylacetate extracts of the intracellular and extracellular fractions were determined by HPLC. Among the various metabolites detected BaP-7,8 diol was the only one that was an intermediate on the activation pathway of BaP to the ultimate carcinogen, BPDE I. Both BHA and 7,8-BF pretreatment significantly decreased intracellular production of BaP-7,8-diol compared to cultures treated with only radiolabeled BaP. MeBHA pretreatment greatly increased intracellular BaP-7,8-diol formation compared to BaP treated controls, while disulfiram pretreatment had no effect on the intracellular concentration. Cultures pretreated with BHA, 7,8-BF or disulfiram formed 30-40% less BPDE I-dG adducts than nonpretreated cultures, while cultures pretreated with MeBHA exhibited approximately 200% increase in the BPDE I-dG adduct formation. Thus, BHA and 7,8-BF act similarly in reducing BaP activation and adduct formation. Alternatively, MeBHA increased BaP activation and adduct formation in human keratinocyte cultures in vitro. Disulfiram pretreatment did not reduce BaP-7,8 diol formation, but decreased BPDE I-dG adducts. These studies indicate that modulators of the P450 system act in different fashions at the level of production of an oxygenated procarcinogen metabolite, altering the amount of specific carcinogen-dG adducts that lead to the expression of a transformed phenotype. PMID- 2515918 TI - Substrate specificity of naringinase, an alpha-L-rhamnosidase from Penicillium decumbens. PMID- 2515919 TI - Effect of hormones on cytosolic free calcium in adipocytes. AB - Some studies have indicated that insulin was able to increase the level of free cytosolic calcium in adipocytes [e.g. 7]. The present study was designed to examine this phenomenon. Insulin did not increase free cytosolic calcium, however oxytocin, vasopressin, alpha-adrenergic agonists and ATP did increase free cytosolic calcium in adipocytes. Other agonists which also did not alter calcium were epidermal growth factor, angiotensin II, glucagon, and beta-adrenergic agonists. The effect of oxytocin at increasing free cytosolic calcium was inhibited by activation of protein kinase C with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate and by ADP ribosylation of a Gi like protein with islet activating protein. The hormones that did increase cytosolic free calcium did so by mobilizing internal calcium and by promoting calcium influx. Even though insulin did not increase free cytosolic calcium, it was able to attenuate the alpha-adrenergic mediated increase in cytosolic free calcium. The fact that certain hormones can increase the level of the second messenger calcium in adipocytes implies that it may be a key intracellular regulator of adipocyte function as it is in many other tissues. PMID- 2515920 TI - Ganglioside composition of astrocytes. AB - Short-term and long-term (greater than 7 months) cultured astrocytes from 14-day old rat brain were analyzed for ganglioside content. Analysis of the extracted gangliosides by HPTLC revealed that ganglioside GM1 was absent in 35 days and 235 days cultured astrocytes, and that the predominant ganglioside was GM3, showing a double band in both cases. A small amount of the disialogangliosides (GD3, GD1a) was also detected. More than 70% of radioactivities into ganglioside fractions by cultured astrocytes, in the presence of N-[3H]-acetylmannosamine, appeared in ganglioside GM3. The upper band component of GM3 increased 60% in long-term astrocyte cultures compared to 35-day-old cultures. Also, an increased GD3 content in long-term astrocyte cultures was detected. These results suggest that the increase of GD3 and upper band GM3 in long-term cultured astrocytes might be related to the appearance of small processes showing strong reactivity against GFAP and vimentin during astrocyte-subculture. PMID- 2515922 TI - [What is the proportion of health expenditures contributed by the population of Czechoslovakia?]. AB - The paper provides information on the participation of resources in the financing of health services (nation-wide, decentralized and individual). The author informs the readers on the amount and distribution of expenses of the population for health services (indirect and direct); with their structure and ratio in relation to basic social characteristics and groups of different households. She compares Czechoslovakia and Hungary, based on household consumption data (by social groups). In the conclusion the author indicates that individual resources spent by the population on health are, and will remain in future, only supplementary. PMID- 2515921 TI - [Generalized gangliosidosis]. PMID- 2515923 TI - IFCC document stage 3, draft 1, dated 1989 02 01. An approved IFCC recommendation. IFCC method (1988) for tonometry of blood: reference materials for pCO2 and pO2. International Federation of Clinical Chemistry Scientific Division. Committee on pH, Blood Gases and Electrolytes. AB - A reference method for tonometry of blood is described. The document covers the theory of tonometry, the materials and equipment needed, and essential aspects of the tonometry procedure for blood. The partial pressures of oxygen and carbon dioxide in tonometered blood are accurately known and therefore this blood is recommended for assessing the accuracy of blood gas analyzers. Tonometry of blood samples from patients may also be used in the determination of acid-base quantities and hemoglobin-oxygen affinity, e.g. p50. PMID- 2515924 TI - Carbon dioxide tensions in physiological salt solutions: direct measurements. AB - Carbon dioxide tensions were measured directly in organ baths and a tonometer aerated in parallel with 6 different gas mixtures of O2 and CO2, 3 gas flows, 3 equilibration periods, and 3 bicarbonate concentrations. The measured partial pressure of carbon dioxide differed systematically from expected values, probably due to errors in the carbon dioxide measurement system. In conclusion, carbon dioxide equilibrates with the bubbling gas in the baths as well as in the tonometer to an almost perfect equilibration. PMID- 2515925 TI - A new homogeneous enzyme immunoassay using recombinant enzyme fragments. AB - Homogeneous enzyme immunoassays have played a major role in the development of simple and easy to use diagnostic tests for clinical laboratory instrumentation. A novel homogeneous enzyme immunoassay system, CEDIA, has been developed using enzyme fragments prepared by recombinant DNA technology. Two separate genes are engineered to express two separate polypeptide fragments: enzyme-donor (ED) and enzyme-acceptor (EA). These fragments can spontaneously recombine to form active beta-galactosidase enzyme. Ligands can be attached to the ED peptide in such a way that the degree of recombination is controlled by the binding of anti-ligand antibodies to the enzyme donor-ligand conjugate. CEDIA methodology is based on the competition between ligand in the sample and ED-ligand conjugate for limiting the amount of antibody binding sites. The advantages of the CEDIA immunoassay system over conventional homogeneous EIA's include a linear dose response curve and lower limits of detection of analytes in human body fluids. The demonstrated sensitivity achievable with CEDIA technology suggests further applications on a wide range of analytes including vitamins, hormones, drugs and cancer markers. A new variant of CEDIA technology leading to a single liquid reagent immunoassay useful for on-site testing has also been developed. PMID- 2515926 TI - Small molecular weight GTP-binding proteins and signal transduction. AB - We have separated multiple GTP-binding proteins (G proteins) having Mr values of about 20,000 (small Mr G proteins) from bovine brain membranes, purified to near homogeneity and characterized two novel G proteins designated as smg p25A and smg p21, the c-Ki-ras protein (c-Ki-ras p21) and the two rho proteins (rho p20 and rho p21). smg p25A is present abundantly in brain and adrenal medulla. This G protein is also found in rat pheochromocytoma PC-12 cells, and its mRNA level increased after differentiation of the cells into neuron-like cells in response to nerve growth factor or dibutyryl cyclic AMP. These results suggest that smg p25A plays an important role in the regulation of neuronal functions. In contrast, smg p21 is found in most tissues. This G protein has the same putative effector domain as ras p21s, suggesting that smg p21 exerts the actions similar and/or antagonistic to those of ras p21s. In fact, smg p21 has been found to be identical with the protein encoded by the Krev-1 gene recently isolated as a gene suppressing the transforming action of Ki-ras p21 in NIH/3T3 cells. On the other hand, rho p20 and rho p21 are ADP-ribosylated by an ADP-ribosyltransferase contained or contaminated in botulinum toxin type C1, presumably C3. Botulinum ADP-ribosyltransferase C3 has recently been shown to induce morphological changes similar to those induced by ras p21 in fibroblasts. Thus, small Mr G proteins are part of a huge network of intracellular regulatory systems and play important roles in the regulation of various cell functions including cell transformation, proliferation and differentiation. PMID- 2515927 TI - Pathogenic potentials of bacterial proteases. AB - Six separate molecular mechanisms for pathogenesis attributed to bacterial proteases are described. (I). Enhancements of vascular permeability and edema formation which result from the activation of kinin generating cascade such as Hageman factor by the proteases. (II). Degradation of defense oriented proteins including IgG and IgA as well as destruction of structural matrices such as fibronectin, proteoglycan and collagen. (III). Inactivation of complement system and generated chemotactic factor from C3 and C5. (IV). Degradation of regulatory plasma protease inhibitors (serpins) including alpha 1-protease inhibitor, alpha 2-macroglobulin (alpha 2M), C1-esterase inhibitor, alpha 2-antiplasmin and antithrombin-III. (V). The protease forms a transitory stable enzyme/inhibitor(alpha 2M) complex. It binds to and internalizes into the cells which possess alpha 2M-receptor such as fibroblasts via the alpha 2M-receptor, and the protease activity is regenerated in cells, and subsequently intracellular integrity is destroyed resulting in cell killing. (VI). The serratial 56 kDa (56K) protease is found to potential viral yield 100 fold more when influenza virus infected mice were subjected to administrations of this protease intranasally. This results in rapid and much elevated lethality. PMID- 2515928 TI - Pituitary function in isolated gonadotrophin deficiency. AB - Hypothalamic-pituitary function was assessed in 24 individuals with isolated gonadotrophin deficiency (IGD). Thirteen had normal olfaction (Group I) while 11 (Group II) had anosmia (Kallmann's syndrome). In response to a 10 micrograms intravenous (i.v.) bolus of GnRH, the minimal dose required to evoke a consistent gonadotrophin response in normal subjects, the patients responded with significant LH and FSH increases over baseline (P less than 0.01). In Group II patients, large doses (150 micrograms) of GnRH, which elicit maximal release of gonadotrophin in normal subjects did not increase gonadotrophin release beyond that produced by a 10 micrograms bolus. In response to two 10 micrograms GnRH doses, at times 0 and 120 min, the IGD patients responded with similar LH increases to both boluses (both P less than 0.01 compared to baseline). The maximal PRL responses to arginine infusion and to TRH in the male patients were similar to those of normal males. However, in the IGD females, the PRL response to TRH was less than in normal females. The TSH responses to TRH in IGD males and females were similar to each other and similar to normal. The IGD male GH response to arginine infusion was comparable to that in normal males. We conclude that (1) IGD patients appear to retain minimal endogenous GnRH secretion so that the IGD pituitary responds to a minimal dose of GnRH without priming; (2) IGD is a heterogeneous syndrome in which affected individuals with and without normal olfaction represent parts of the spectrum of the same disease; and (3) except for the PRL response in females, the PRL, TSH and GH responses demonstrate that the IGD pituitaries are largely intact. PMID- 2515929 TI - Partial hypotrophy of the posterior and lateral columns of the spinal cord, representing a sequela of schistosomiasis mansoni: report of an autopsied case and a review of the literature. AB - An autopsied case of schistosomiasis mansoni of the spinal cord is reported. The patient had been healthy until about five years before, when he presented with paraparesis, loss of sensibility from the pelvic girdle down and fecal and urinary incontinence which persisted until death. At autopsy there was old necrosis of most of the gray matter in the middle thoracic segment of the spinal cord and severe hypotrophy of the posterior columns in the lumbar spinal cord, of the posterior and anterior spinocerebellar tracts, and of the lateral corticospinal tract, unilaterally, in the entire thoracolumbar spinal cord from the middle thoracic segment on. In correspondence with these lesions, over one hundred Schistosoma mansoni ova were found. No parasitism by S. mansoni in the brain and in the abdominal and thoracic viscera was found. This case is compared to others in the literature and a schistosomal etiology for spinal lesions is proposed. These lesions could represent a sequela of the prolonged destructive action of the granulomatous inflammatory process. The topography of the lesions, the relationship of schistosomiasis of the spinal cord to other anatomo-clinical forms of the disease, and how the spinal cord is reached by S. mansoni are commented upon. PMID- 2515930 TI - Comment on amyloid neuropathy in light chain multiple myeloma. PMID- 2515931 TI - Lipoprotein subfraction composition in non-obese newly diagnosed non-insulin dependent diabetes after treatment with diet and glibenclamide. AB - The composition and concentrations of fasting plasma lipoproteins were determined in a prospective study of 11 +/- 2 (mean +/- 1 SD) months in 16 non-obese (body mass index less than or equal to 30) patients with Type 2 (non-insulin dependent) diabetes mellitus at diagnosis, treated by diet alone or diet plus glibenclamide (2.5-7.5 mg/day). Compared with normal subjects matched for sex, age, body mass index, exercise, alcohol consumption and smoking, Type 2 patients at diagnosis showed increased concentrations of non-esterified and esterified cholesterol, triglyceride, phospholipid and protein in the very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) fraction. The apolipoprotein (apo) B concentrations was also raised, but low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol concentrations were not significantly altered in Type 2 patients at diagnosis. Plasma concentrations of high density lipoprotein (HDL) non-esterified and esterified cholesterol, HDL phospholipid and apo AI were lower in Type 2 patients at diagnosis. This was largely accounted for by a reduced number of HDL2 molecules of normal composition. After treatment of Type 2 patients with diet alone, there was a marginal increase in plasma HDL cholesterol and phospholipid, and in plasma HDL2 cholesterol, phospholipid, protein and apo AI concentrations, in association with reductions of VLDL component concentrations, body mass index and glycaemia. Type 2 patients treated with diet plus glibenclamide exhibited similar abnormalities of plasma lipoprotein concentrations before and after treatment, except for a small reduction in VLDL component concentrations and a slight increase in the apo AI:B ratio. Institution of diet alone and diet plus glibenclamide generally failed to restore VLDL, HDL and HDL2 component concentrations and the apo AI:B ratio to normal.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515932 TI - Influence of sorbitol accumulation on growth and development of embryos cultured in elevated levels of glucose and fructose. AB - Day-9 rat embryos, cultured for 48 hours in 67 mmol/l D-glucose, showed impaired growth, increased malformation rate and elevated concentration of sorbitol compared to embryos cultured in medium without additional glucose supplement. Supplementing the high-glucose cultures with an aldose reductase inhibitor markedly decreased the sorbitol levels without affecting the malformations or the retarded growth of the embryos. Since embryos cultured in 6.6 mmol/l D-fructose showed normal growth and morphology despite increased accumulation of sorbitol, this study suggests a dissociation between raised sorbitol levels and glucose induced maldevelopment in rat embryos. PMID- 2515933 TI - Radioimmunoassay of glycated serum protein using monoclonal antibody to glucitollysine and coomassie-brilliant-blue-coated polystyrene beads. AB - A radioimmunoassay for glycated serum protein (GSP) was developed using monoclonal antibody to glucitollysine and polystyrene beads coated with Coomassie Brilliant-Blue (CBB) as adsorbent for serum protein. The monoclonal antibody was raised by immunizing BALB/c mice with reduced glycated LDL and fusing their spleen cells with mouse myeloma cells. CBB-coated polystyrene beads were introduced to absorb a constant amount of serum protein. The protein adsorbed on the CBB-coated beads was reduced by NaHB4, and after treatment with radiolabeled antibody, the radioactivity of each bead was counted with an automatic gamma counter. The standard glycated protein used was reduced glycated human serum albumin, in which 8 of 59 lysine residues were glycated. The intra- and interassay coefficients of variation of GSP were 4.8-6.5% and 1.6-6.0%, respectively. The GSP level of diabetic patients was significantly higher than that of normal controls (1.97 +/- 1.23 vs. 0.47 +/- 0.21 nmol/mg-protein; mean +/ SD, p less than 0.001). The GSP levels of patients with insulin-dependent and non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus were 3.03 +/- 1.05 and 1.51 +/- 1.00 nmol/mg-protein, respectively. A good correlation was found between the levels of GSP and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) (r = 0.85, p less than 0.001). In patients admitted to the hospital for diabetes education and glycemic control, the GSP level decreased 43 +/- 12% with the decrease in the fasting plasma glucose level (39 +/- 13%) and the mean daily plasma glucose level (MPG, 47 +/- 15%) in a four week period after admission, whereas the HbA1c level decreased only 13 +/- 6% during this period.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515934 TI - Monoamine oxidase (MAO) in pancreatic islets of the mouse: some characteristics and the effect of chemical sympathectomy. AB - We have previously observed that chemical sympathectomy in the guinea pig induced an increase in the intensity of serotonin fluorescence in the insulin cells of the pancreatic islets. In the present study we have studied some basal characteristics of mouse islet monoamine oxidase (MAO) and the effect of chemical sympathectomy induced by 6-hydroxydopamine on the activity of this enzyme. Estimated Km-values for MAO activity with different substrates were as follows: serotonin (5-HT; 2 x 10(-4) M), dopamine (DA; 4 x 10(-4) M), and 2 phenylethylamine (PEA; 4 x 10(-6) M). The highest specific activity was displayed with PEA and DA as substrates, whereas it was about 10 times lower with 5-HT as substrate. Two days after the destruction of islet adrenergic nerves by 6 hydroxydopamine we observed a decrease of approximately 30% of the MAO activity with serotonin as substrate and after seven days the MAO activity with PEA as substrate had decreased by 18%. By contrast the MAO activity with DA as substrate was slightly increased (+ 12%) at two days after sympathectomy. There is a need for a further characterization of islet MAO activity(ies) and for further studies on its putative role in insulin secretory processes through its regulation of the islet monoamine stores. PMID- 2515935 TI - Effect of multiple insulin injections with a pen injector on metabolic control and general well-being in insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. AB - The long-term (1) effect of multiple insulin injections in clinical practice was evaluated prospectively in 168 unselected consecutive insulin-dependent diabetic patients, age 31 (10-77) yr, attending a diabetic clinic. All patients received three or more daily injections of short acting insulin using a pen injector (NovoPen) plus one injection of intermediate acting insulin at bedtime. Haemoglobin A1c remained nearly unchanged, baseline: 8.6 (5.7-11.8)%, and after intensified treatment for 12 months: 8.3 (5.7-12.3)%. The frequency of keto acidosis (0.08 (conventional treatment) versus 0.02 episodes/patient/yr, p less than 0.05) and severe hypoglycaemia (0.69 (conventional treatment) versus 0.38 episodes/patient/yr, p less than 0.005) diminished during intensified treatment. Ninety percent of the patients reported improvement in general well-being and only three percent felt worse. We conclude that multiple insulin injections with a pen injector applied in clinical practice improves general well-being, diminishes the risk of acute metabolic complications, while the overall metabolic control as reflected by haemoglobin A1c remains unaltered. PMID- 2515936 TI - Distribution of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in the ether- and ester-linked phosphoglycerides from tissues of the rainbow trout, Salmo gairdneri. AB - 1. Data presented here demonstrate that polyunsaturated fatty acids in the phospholipids of rainbow trout tissues are compartmentalized differently than in mammalian tissues. 2. We have determined the distribution of omega-3 (n-3) and omega-6 (n-6) fatty acids in the alkyl-, alk-1-enyl-, and diacyl- subclasses of phosphatidylcholines (PC), phosphatidyl-ethanolamines (PE), phosphatidylinositols (PI), and phosphatidylserines (PS) from gill, kidney and spleen of rainbow trout. 3. Alkyl-linked PC and alk-1-enyl-linked PE were the most abundant ether containing phospholipids, amounting to 10-15% of each class; no ether-linked PI or PS was detected. 4. C20:4 n-6 was found in high concentrations only in PI; the n-3 fatty acids were found in highest concentration in the ether-linked phospholipids as compared with the diacyl subclasses and C20:5 n-3 was especially prevalent in 1-O-alk-1'-enyl-2-acyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine and C22:6 n 3 was prevalent in PS. PMID- 2515937 TI - Response to selection for milk yield and metabolic challenges in primiparous dairy cows. AB - The effect of selection for milk yield on lactation yield, net energy balance, and on plasma growth hormone, insulin, prolactin, nonesterified fatty acids and glucose was studied in two groups of primiparous Holstein cows of differing genetic merit. Net energy balance was calculated and serial blood samples were collected for a 7 hr period at 0, 45, 90 and 180 days postpartum. Growth hormone releasing factor (.2 microgram/kg BW) was administered after 2.5 hr at 0, 45 and 180 days postpartum, while epinephrine (.7 microgram/kg BW) was administered at 90 days postpartum. Milk yield was greater, net energy balance was decreased and plasma growth hormone was greater in genetically superior selection group cows compared to control cows. Growth hormone showed similar increases in both genetic groups in response to growth hormone releasing factor, while prolactin, insulin and glucose were not altered. Epinephrine stimulated an increase in plasma nonesterified fatty acids, glucose and insulin, but responses did not differ between genetic groups. Results indicate differences exist in production efficiency, net energy balance and plasma growth hormone concentration among dairy cattle as a result of selection for milk yield and suggest that selection pressure may act to alter homeorhetic control of nutrient metabolism. PMID- 2515938 TI - Effects of a chronic GRF treatment on lambs having low or normal birth weight. AB - The effects of a long term treatment with human GRF(1-29)NH2 on plasma growth hormone (GH), somatomedin C (Sm-C), histomorphometric parameters of bone growth and body composition were investigated in normal and low birthweight male lambs. The animals were divided into two groups according to their birthweight: 24 normal birthweight (NBW) lambs weighing more than 4 kg and 22 low birthweight (LBW) lambs weighing less than 2.5 kg at birth. Half of the animals in each group received two daily subcutaneous injections (8 micrograms/kg body weight) of hGRF(1-29) NH2 (GRF) from birth to slaughter at 45 or 90 days of age. The other animals received the solvent only. At the beginning and at the end of the treatment, plasma GH and serum Sm-C concentrations were measured in all groups. After slaughter, a histomorphometric study was performed on undecalcified sections of metacarpal growth plates, and the remaining of the carcass was pulverized to study the chemical body composition. GRF induced GH release in both GRF-treated groups. However, plasma GH reached higher (P less than .001) concentrations and the GRF-induced GH peak lasted longer in LBW than in NBW lambs. At day 45, the GRF treatment increased (P less than .05) serum Sm-C concentrations in LBW. Most of histomorphometric parameters reflecting the metacarpal growth in length, were not statistically modified under GRF treatment. However, the size of degenerative cells was smaller (P less than .05) in LBW treated lambs as compared to controls. Consequently, the cell production in the growth plate was increased (P less than .05) under GRF treatment.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515939 TI - The effects of a progestin-only oral contraceptive (levonorgestrel 0.03 mg) on breast-feeding. AB - This study was a non-randomized clinical trial which compared the breast-feeding experience of 250 Argentine women taking levonorgestrel 0.03 mg daily (begun one week after delivery) with that of 250 women using non-hormonal contraceptives. Weight gain of unsupplemented infants, the most important of the several criteria used to assess breast-feeding performance, was similar for the two contraceptive groups. Levonorgestrel users began supplementary feeding of their infants significantly later than did non-hormonal users; levonorgestrel users were also somewhat less likely to discontinue breast-feeding during the study period. The two contraceptive groups were similar with regard to several other measures of breast-feeding performance: growth of all infants (regardless of supplementation), patterns of contraceptive discontinuation, mothers' subjective impressions of breast-milk sufficiency, and comparison of supplementation initiation with previous experience. PMID- 2515941 TI - The intracellular site of action of insulin: the mitochondrial Krebs cycle. PMID- 2515940 TI - Lipid metabolism and coagulation of two contraceptives: correlation to serum concentrations of levonorgestrel and gestodene. AB - The effects of two triphasic oral contraceptives containing the same amount of ethinylestradiol (EE) in combination with levonorgestrel (LNG) or gestodene (GES), respectively, on lipid metabolism and coagulation were studied. Serum concentrations of GES and LNG were determined at the same time. Thirty-three healthy women were randomized into two groups receiving either of the preparations. Before treatment and in the 3rd and the 6th cycle, blood samples were drawn in the morning while subjects were still in bed to obtain basal conditions. HDL2-cholesterol decreased in the LNG group but was unchanged in the GES group, whereas apolipoprotein A1 increased in the GES but not in the LNG group. Antithrombin III decreased in the GES group but was unchanged in the LNG treated women. Factor VII increased in both groups, but more in the GES group. It is concluded that GES has a positive influence on lipid metabolism, and has a slightly negative influence on coagulation but the latter is more likely to be without clinical relevance. The positive influence of GES compared to LNG on lipids is probably due to its lower androgenicity and not to differences in bioavailability. PMID- 2515942 TI - Roles of Drosophila proto-oncogene and growth factor homologs during development of the fly. PMID- 2515943 TI - [Metabolic changes and infusion therapy in ileus]. AB - The aim of the investigation was to determine the changes in intermediary metabolism that occur in cases of ileus, and to develop a concept for parenteral perioperative nutrition on a pathophysiological basis. Seventeen metabolically healthy patients, suffering from mechanical ileus, have been evaluated. Besides the nonspecific metabolic changes characteristic of the postaggressive metabolism (abnormalities in peripheral glucose utilization, gluconeogenesis, lipolysis, proteolysis) we were able to demonstrate elevated serum levels of albumin, lactate and arachidonic acid preoperatively in these patients. The plasma histamine levels lay within normal limits. In the immediate postoperative phase (i.e. from 1.-3. postoperative day) we found a marked reduction in the serum levels of glucoplastic amino acids (about 30%), albumin (40%), pre-albumin (80%) and cholesterol (50%). We therefore suggest that, apart from electrolyte solutions, patients with an ileus should receive fructose (1600 kcal/day) preoperatively and from the first postoperative day amino acids (1 g/kg of body weight) and human albumin (as required) should be administered in addition. PMID- 2515944 TI - [Acceptability of norplant implantation in China]. AB - The results of Norplant subdermal implants in 10,718 women receiving Norplant-6 and 1,208 women accepted Norplant-2 were analyzed. Up to May 31, 1988, the 3-year cumulative pregnancy rate was 0.2 per 100 acceptor for Norplant-6 and 0.1 per 100 acceptor for Norplant-2 and the continuation rate was 78.6 and 73.1 per 100 acceptor respectively. Menstrual disturbance constituted the majority (70%) of terminations. Cumulative termination rate for medical reasons was only 4.2 and 6.3 per 100 acceptor for Norplant-6 and Norplant-2 respectively. It is concluded preliminarily that the Norplant subdermal implantable contraceptive system is a safe and acceptable to the Chinese women. PMID- 2515945 TI - IgE and inflammatory cells. AB - Extensive studies initiated in parasitic disease models have unequivocally established that IgE antibodies can directly interact with mononuclear phagocytes, eosinophils and platelets through specific surface receptors now identified as Fc epsilon RII. Genes coding for B cell and more recently eosinophil IgE receptors have been cloned. Studies on molecular structure indicate a close homology between Fc epsilon RII on inflammatory cells and on B cells but indications are emerging of some degree of heterogeneity among the second class of receptors for IgE. Recent studies performed in parallel on eosinophils indicate that their IgE receptors contain a sequence commonly involved in the primary structure of adhesion proteins. Interaction between antigen and cytophilically bound IgE antibodies results in the triggering of cell effector function and the release of a variety of pro-inflammatory or cytocidal mediators. Among others, one eosinophil granule protein (eosinophil peroxidase) is preferentially released by anaphylactic isotype-dependent stimuli. The main expression of IgE-dependent platelet activation appears related to the production of oxygen-derived free radicals (detected by chemoluminescence and electron magnetic resonance) together with their cytocidal properties. Taken together these findings confirm our current view that IgE receptors on inflammatory cells play a major role in the expression of cell effector function, both in defence mechanisms against several parasites and in allergic reactions. PMID- 2515946 TI - Influence of environmental factors on IgE production. AB - The prevalence of atopic diseases appears to have increased rapidly, especially in industrialized countries. The increase may be explained by a change in certain environmental factors. This article focuses on the influence of environmental factors on IgE production. Epidemiological or experimental reports have shown that tobacco smoke, virus infection and mercuric chloride may enhance IgE production. We demonstrated the enhancing effect of diesel-exhaust particulates (DEP), which seem to have increased in urban environments, on IgE antibody production. The IgE antibody responses in mice immunized by intraperitoneal injection of antigens mixed with DEP were higher than those in animals immunized with the antigens alone. DEP also had an adjuvant activity for IgE antibody production in mice after entry via the respiratory tract (the natural mode of entry). The enhancing effect of DEP on IgE antibody responses was demonstrated even when a small dose such as 1 micrograms of DEP was given intranasally at three-week intervals. Our further study has indicated that suspended particulate matter including materials other than DEP has an adjuvant activity for IgE antibody production. PMID- 2515947 TI - Heterogeneity of human Fc epsilon RI-bearing cells. AB - Anti-IgE challenge of human basophils and mast cells reveals differences in the arachidonic acid metabolites produced and the biochemical mechanisms of release. Thus the basophil releases only leukotriene C and skin and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) mast cells release largely prostaglandin D whereas lung, gut and uterine mast cells generate both products. All cells demonstrate increased Ca2+ levels after excitation but basophils require smaller elevations than mast cells for equivalent release; in spite of this close association, changes in Ca2+ level can be dissociated from histamine release. The importance of protein kinase C activation (assessed by direct measurement, inhibitor studies and/or TPA-induced depletion) in release is variable, being critical in the basophil and showing progressively less importance in skin, lung and BAL mast cells. Different secretagogues utilize distinct biochemical mechanisms in the same mast cell. BAL mast cells are 1000-fold more sensitive and basophils 100-fold more sensitive to anti-IgE than lung, gut or skin mast cells. In keeping with this only BAL mast cells and basophils are sensitive to the IgE-dependent histamine-releasing factors. These in vitro findings accurately predict the observations made in human in vivo antigen challenge systems utilizing the upper and lower airways and the skin. They also provide insight into the pathogenesis of the early and late response to antigen. PMID- 2515948 TI - Conventional and new approaches to hyposensitization. AB - Hyposensitization in IgE-mediated allergic diseases has traditionally been induced by immunotherapy in which increasing amounts of allergens have been injected until a maximal tolerated dose has been achieved. Among the most obvious immunological effects of immunotherapy have been the production of allergen specific IgG and some impairment in the synthesis of allergen-specific IgE. In addition to allergen-specific IgG (sometimes described as blocking antibodies) anti-idiotypic and anti-isotypic (IgG anti-IgE) have recently attracted attention as possibly being involved in hyposensitization. The effects of immunotherapy at the cellular level (either as T cell control of IgE synthesis or as modulation of mediator release by effector cells) also deserve further investigation. PMID- 2515949 TI - Control of in vivo IgE production in the mouse by interleukin 4. AB - In vitro studies have demonstrated that the cytokine IL-4 can, with the proper co stimuli, induce IgE secretion. We have demonstrated in in vivo studies with a monoclonal anti-IL-4 antibody that this cytokine is required for the generation of the polyclonal primary IgE responses induced by injecting mice with GaM delta antibody or inoculating them with larvae of the nematode parasite Nippostrongylus brasiliensis (Nb), as well as for the secondary TNP-specific IgE response induced by immunizing mice with TNP-KLH on alum. We now report studies that demonstrate that: (1) the secondary polyclonal IgE response induced by repeated Nb inoculation, while mostly inhibitable by anti-IL-4 antibody, has an IL-4 independent component; (2) whereas treatment with anti-IL-4 antibody during a primary Nb inoculation does not prevent the rapid generation of a large IgE response during a second inoculation, treatment with anti-IL-4 antibody during both primary and secondary inoculation inhibits the development of a secondary IgE response by greater than 99%; (3) an established ongoing chronic IgE response, induced by inoculation of mice with larvae of the nematode parasite Heligmosomoides polygyrus (Hp), can be reduced by greater than 95% by administration of anti-IL-4 antibody; and (4) an anti-IL-4 receptor antibody effectively, efficiently and selectively blocks the GaM delta antibody-induced IgE response. These observations suggest that approaches aimed at blocking IL-4 effects may be useful for treating IgE-mediated diseases. PMID- 2515950 TI - Mast cells: immunologically specific effectors and potential sources of multiple cytokines during IgE-dependent responses. AB - Mast cells are critical effectors in many IgE-dependent responses, and the numbers and phenotype of certain mast cell populations can be influenced, through IL-3 and IL-4, by the same T cells that regulate IgE production. However, IgE can interact with cells other than mast cells, and different mast cell populations express significant variation in multiple important aspects of their phenotype, including mediator content and responses to cytokines and stimuli of activation. As a result it may be difficult to define the unique contributions of mast cells to IgE-dependent reactions. One approach for analysing the roles of various mast cell populations in individual biological responses is to attempt to elicit these reactions in mice in which the presence or absence of specific mast cell populations can be regulated experimentally. We have used genetically mast cell deficient and mast cell-reconstituted mice to demonstrate that mast cells provide essential effector function in certain IgE-dependent responses involving the skin, stomach or lungs but are not necessary for the pulmonary alterations and death associated with active anaphylaxis. Similar approaches can be used to investigate the biological significance of the production, by mast cells stimulated with IgE and specific antigen, of cytokines similar or identical to IL 1, IL-3, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, TNF-alpha/cachectin, IFN-gamma, GM-CSF, JE, MIP-1 alpha, MIP-1 beta and TCA3. PMID- 2515952 TI - The receptor with high affinity for IgE. AB - The cDNAs for each of the three types of polypeptide that form the high affinity IgE receptor have been cloned and sequenced. Analysis of the predicted amino acid sequence and other data suggests that the four-chained structure (alpha beta gamma 2) contains seven transmembrane segments. The alpha chain resembles the immunoglobulin-binding chain found in other Fc receptors, but the beta and gamma chain sequences do not resemble other known proteins. (The one exception: the transmembrane segment of the gamma chains, which is homologous to the corresponding segment of the zeta chain of the CD3 complex found on T lymphocytes). Efficient expression of IgE binding by the rat receptor in COS cells was observed only when the coding sequences for each of the three chains were co-transfected. So far, only the cDNA for the human alpha chain has been successfully cloned. We attempted to express this chain by co-transfecting its cDNA with those for the rat beta and gamma chains. Surprisingly, co-transfection with the cDNA for the gamma chain was sufficient, although when the beta and gamma chains were both co-transfected, expression of alpha beta gamma oligomers was evident. Approaches being used to define by genetic manipulation the functional role of various parts of the receptor are discussed. PMID- 2515951 TI - Non-IgE-mediated mast cell stimulation. AB - The effect of a variety of non IgE-mediated stimuli on histamine release from mast cells from different locations is described. Sensory neuropeptides are shown to resemble other polycationic compounds in preferentially activating mast cells from the rat while having a limited effect on human mast cells, except possibly those from skin. Similar results were obtained with the putative non-adrenergic, non-cholinergic neurotransmitter ATP, thereby questioning the role of neuronal mast cell activation in allergy and inflammation. Bradykinin also acted selectively against rat cells while complement-derived and formylmethionyl peptides were effective against human basophils and cutaneous mast cells. The latter results may indicate a role for the skin cell in local inflammatory responses involving complement activation and in host resistance to bacterial infection. Rat mast cells and human basophils were most responsive to hyperosmolar challenge but significant effects were obtained from human pulmonary mast cells obtained by bronchoalveolar lavage. The latter cells may thus be implicated in exercise-induced asthma. The plasma substitute dextran was a specific secretagogue for the rat while morphine sulphate largely induced histamine release from human cutaneous mast cells. The latter result may account for anaphylactoid reactions to the opiate. In total these data emphasize the functional heterogeneity of mast cells from different locations and highlight the particular pharmacological properties of the skin mast cell in man. PMID- 2515953 TI - [Surgical treatment of epilepsy with electrocorticography monitoring]. AB - From January 1983 to April 1988, 40 cases of epilepsy were treated surgically. There were 15 cases of posttraumatic cicatrix, 5 cases of grade I astrocytoma, 9 cases of diffuse gliosis, 4 cases of vascular malformation, 1 case of calcification and cicatrix of temporal lobe, 2 cases of microglia malformation, 1 case of brain atrophy complicating ganglioneuroma, 2 cases of localized brain atrophy, 1 case of post-hematoma cicatrix. The end results were seizures subsided in 26, and reduction of the seriousness in 8. No mortality in this series. Follow up study showed 85% of these patients with effectiveness. The indication of surgery, utilizing of electrocorticography, excision of epileptogenic focus are discussed. PMID- 2515954 TI - [Mechanism of riboflavin deficiency facilitating carcinogenesis of N-nitrosamine- effect on carcinogen-metabolizing enzymes]. AB - Previous studies have demonstrated the facilitating effect of riboflavin deficiency on the carcinogenesis of the liver of rats induced by N-nitrosamine. However, the mechanism was still not clear. In the present investigation, the alterations of microsomal carcinogen-metabolizing enzymes of rat liver during riboflavin-deficiency with simultaneous administration of nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) were studied. The results showed that the enzyme activities of hepatic microsomal cytochrome P-450 and NDMA demethylase of riboflavin deficient rats and riboflavin deficient rats receiving NDMA were increased and significantly different from the control rats (P less than 0.05). The enzyme activities of hepatic microsomal NADPH-cytochrome P-450 reductase of riboflavin deficient rats and riboflavin deficient rats receiving NDMA were significantly decreased (P less than 0.01). All the alterations disappeared after supplying riboflavin to the deficient rats. This result indicates that the effect of riboflavin deficiency on carcinogen-metabolizing enzymes of rat liver is reversible. PMID- 2515955 TI - [Relationship between central recurrence and time-dose factors in patients with carcinoma of uterine cervix after radiotherapy]. AB - Time-dose factor (TDF) value at point A was evaluated in 75 patients with central recurrence and 100 patients free of cancer for more than 5 years after radiotherapy serving as control. The results showed that the mean TDF at point A was 131 +/- 16 and, 139 +/- 15 in patients with Stage II lesions in central recurrence and control groups and 134 +/- 18 and 144 + 14 in patients with Stage III lesions in both groups, respectively. The TDF was all lower in the recurrence groups than those in the control groups. There was significant difference between the two groups (P less than 0.02 and P less than 0.01). The results also showed that the TDF at point A was significantly different between the recurrent and control groups (P less than 0.05) when it was more than 135 and 140 in Stage II and III lesions. It is pointed out that, even with same dose delivered to point A, the lower TDF value at point A is possibly the reason of central failure in cervical cancer treatment. The authors suggest that total TDF value at point A in Stage II and III lesions be no less than 135 and 140. PMID- 2515956 TI - Localization of different releasing hormone immunoreactive (LH-IR) neurons and their projections in central nervous system of birds. A mini-review. AB - The aim of the present review is to summarize the question of the co-existence of two or more releasing hormones within a neuron or nucleus of the avian central nervous system (CNS). Furthermore, we attempt to differentiate between the character and functional significance of hypothalamic and of extrahypothalamic releasing hormone containing neurons. In order to approach these important questions, we have to summarize the localization and distribution of the different releasing hormone immunoreactive (RH-IR) structures in the avian brain, compared to the much more thoroughly investigated mammalian releasing hormone system. This mini-review comprises data obtained by immunohistochemical approach, exclusively. Other data, based on radioimmunoassay or other morphological methods, will be omitted here. PMID- 2515957 TI - Peroxidase activities in autonomously functioning nodules and adjacent non tumorous portions of thyroids. AB - Peroxidase activities of autonomously functioning thyroid tumors (T) and surrounding non-tumorous tissue (N) in 5 patients were determined by employing guaiacol or iodide as the second substrates. The mean values for specific activities of T were 30 times (in iodide oxidation assay) or 4 times (in guaiacol oxidation assay) as high as those in N, being significantly higher than those of non-functioning tumors. The thyroglobulin-iodination activity of thyroid peroxidase in T was also found to correlate well to the iodide oxidation activity. These results suggest that the enhanced peroxidase activity in the nodules plays an essential role in the function of autonomously functioning thyroid nodules. PMID- 2515958 TI - Plasma thyroxine-binding proteins and thyroid hormone levels in primate species; is callithricidae thyroid hormone resistant? AB - Thyroxine(T4)-binding to serum proteins in primates; catarrhini, prosimiae, and platyrrhini were studied by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis T4 binding analysis. From the electrophoretic analysis, it was shown that thyroxine-binding proteins similar to human thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG) and thyroxine-binding prealbumin (TBPA) were present in catarrhini and prosimiae species, but not in platyrrhini (callithricidae and cebidae). T4-binding analysis also revealed that catarrhini and prosimiae have a high affinity T4-binding protein similar to human TBG. The association constant (Ka) for T4 of the plasma proteins in these species was approximately 2.0 X 10(10) M-1. On the other hand, it was unable to demonstrate a high affinity binding site for T4 in the plasma of platyrrhini species. Both the total and free thyroid hormone concentrations in catarrhini and prosimiae were similar to those in human. Total T4 in cebidae, one of the platyrrhini species, was extremely low. Among 8 animals examined, T4 in 6 was undetectable by radioimmunoassay and the mean T4 of the other two was 2.8 micrograms/dl. However, free thyroid hormone concentrations were similar to those in human. In callithricidae, another platyrrhini species, T4 in plasma was 6.90 +/- 2.11, which is comparable to the level in normal human subjects. However, in this species, high-affinity T4-binding protein was lacking and free thyroid hormone concentrations were extremely high (most were higher than the assay limit). Although the thyroid function of callithricidae remains to be studied, it will be interesting if callithricidae is resistant to thyroid hormone action. PMID- 2515959 TI - Puberty and ovulatory release of gonadotropins in spontaneously hypertensive rats. AB - The age at vaginal opening, estrous cyclicity, serum levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and prolactin (PRL) on the day of proestrus, and number of ova and ovarian weight as measured on the day of estrus in spontaneously hypertensive (SH) and genetically matched normotensive Wistar Kyoto (WKY) female rats were compared. In SH rats, there was a significant delay in the vaginal opening, but the regular 4-day estrous cycle followed afterwards. No significant changes were observed in the afternoon increase in serum LH, FSH and PRL on the day of proestrus in SH and WKY rats, although the basal levels of LH and PRL in the morning (11:00 h) were lower in SH rats than in WKY rats. The mean number of ova in SH rats was also less than in WKY rats, whereas the ovarian relative weight was similar in both species of rats. It can be said that SH rats undergo certain, but not critical, endocrine and/or neuroendocrine changes related to reproduction. PMID- 2515960 TI - Mechanism of LH release in cultured rat pituitary cells. AB - To investigate the mechanisms of the synthesis and the release of gonadotropin, rat anterior pituitary cells were stimulated in vitro with luteinizing hormone releasing hormone (LH-RH), [D-Ser(tBu)]6 des-Gly-NH2(10) ethylamide (Buserelin) and 12-0-tetradecanoyl phorbol-13-acetate (TPA), and then the LH and LH-beta subunit released into the medium were determined by radioimmunoassay. Buserelin showed its biological activity at a much lower concentration than LH-RH, but both of them caused the release of LH and LH-beta subunit in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, intracellular LH synthesis from LH-beta subunit by stimulation with LH-RH or Buserelin was also found. After inducing various degrees of desensitization by stimulation with LH-RH or Buserelin in a dose-dependent manner (the first stimulation), pituitary cells were stimulated with a fixed dose of TPA (the second stimulation) and the released LH was assayed. LH was released almost constantly by the second stimulation, regardless of the dose used for the first stimulation. These results suggest that the C-kinase pathway was unaffected by the desensitization induced with LH-RH or Buserelin. PMID- 2515961 TI - Evaluation of pefloxacin, ofloxacin and ciprofloxacin in the treatment of thirty nine cases of chronic osteomyelitis. AB - From October 1983 to October 1986, 39 patients with chronic osteomyelitis (of at least two month's duration) were treated with either pefloxacin (n = 15), ofloxacin (n = 17), or ciprofloxacin (n = 7). The length of treatment ranged from 3 to 6 months; follow-up examinations were performed up until July 1988. The infecting bacterial strains (19 Staphylococcus aureus, 2 Staphylococcus epidermidis, 10 Escherichia coli, 8 Pseudomonas aeruginosa) were all sensitive to the quinolone prescribed. Twenty-nine of the 38 evaluable patients had a satisfactory outcome at follow-up examinations 14 to 48 months after the end of treatment. Fourteen of the 21 patients with gram-positive bacterial infections responded satisfactorily, as did 15 of the 17 patients infected by gram-negative bacteria. Nine cases of failure were observed (2 for pefloxacin, 4 for ofloxacin, 3 for ciprofloxacin). The infecting bacteria were Staphylococcus aureus in six cases (3 on ofloxacin, 3 on ciprofloxacin). The infecting bacteria were Staphylococcus aureus in six cases (3 on ofloxacin, 3 on ciprofloxacin), and Staphylococcus epidermidis (ofloxacin), Escherichia coli (pefloxacin), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (pefloxacin) in one case each. In all these cases, local conditions (presence of a foreign body in 5 cases, sequestra in 3, and post radiotherapy necrosis in 1) could have been responsible for treatment failure. Tolerance was good; adverse effects observed in the pefloxacin and ofloxacin groups disappeared after treatment was ended. Bone levels varied but were always superior to the MIC for the pathogen. In view of the satisfactory results, the possibility of oral administration, and the good tolerance, these quinolones should be considered as alternative agents for the treatment of chronic osteomyelitis. PMID- 2515962 TI - Failure of mupirocin-resistant staphylococci to inactivate mupirocin. AB - Isolates from four UK centres, comprising four Staphylococcus aureus strains and one Staphylococcus epidermidis strain with high-level mupirocin resistance, and one strain each of Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis with low level mupirocin resistance, were assessed for intracellular or extracellular enzymatic alteration of the antibiotic. No change was seen in a number of assays, which included comparative disk diffusion, well diffusion and high-pressure liquid chromatography. Other mechanisms of resistance need to be explored in these isolates. PMID- 2515963 TI - Antibacterial and plasmid curing activity of lomefloxacin in vitro. AB - The in vitro activity of lomefloxacin in comparison to other recently developed quinolones was evaluated by determination of MICs for 89 test strains. Organisms tested included clinical isolates of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria susceptible or resistant to quinolones, resistant mutants of Enterobacteriaceae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis obtained in vitro, and the wild type strain Escherichia coli K12 with its mutants na1A, nalB, nalC and nalB. The activity of lomefloxacin was similar to that of pefloxacin against gram-positive cocci and similar to that of norfloxacin against gram-negative bacteria. There was cross-resistance to all quinolones tested in pefloxacin resistant clinical isolates and in laboratory mutants. The activity of lomefloxacin was decreased against the Escherichia coli K12 mutants nalA and nalD but not nalB, whereas the nalC mutant showed increased susceptibility. Susceptible and mutant strains (n = 115) were used to establish the least-squares lines of regression with 5-micrograms and 10-micrograms lomefloxacin disks. Tests of the in vitro plasmid curing activity of lomefloxacin compared to other agents showed no statistically significant plasmid loss after treatment with lomefloxacin. PMID- 2515965 TI - Coronary vasomotor tone during static and dynamic exercise. AB - Coronary vasomotion is an important determinant of myocardial perfusion in patients with angina pectoris, and it influences not only normal but also stenotic coronary arteries. The ability of a stenotic coronary artery to change its size is dependent on the presence of a normal musculo-elastic wall segment within the stenosis (i.e., eccentric stenosis). Coronary vasoconstriction of normal and stenotic coronary arteries has been reported by Brown and coworkers (Circulation 1984; 70: 18-24) during isometric exercise. The effect of dynamic exercise on coronary vasomotion was evaluated in one group of 13 patients with ischaemia-like symptoms and normal coronary arteries (group 1) and in a second group of 12 patients with coronary artery disease with exercise-induced angina pectoris (group 2). Luminal area of a normal and a stenotic vessel segment was determined by biplane quantitative coronary arteriography at rest, during supine bicycle exercise and 5 min after administration of 1.6 mg sublingual nitroglycerin. Coronary sinus blood flow was measured in group 1 at rest and after 0.5 mg kg-1 intravenous dipyridamole using coronary sinus thermodilution. Coronary flow reserve was calculated from coronary sinus flow after dipyridamole divided by coronary sinus flow at rest. In group 1, coronary vasodilation of the large (i.e., proximal) and the small (i.e., distal) coronary arteries was observed during exercise in seven patients (subgroup A). However, in the remaining six patients (subgroup B) coronary vasoconstriction of the small arteries (-24%, P less than 0.001) was found during exercise, whereas the large vessels showed coronary vasodilation (+26%, P less than 0.001).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515966 TI - Nitrate action on epicardial coronary arteries and tolerance: new aspects based on longterm glyceryl trinitrate infusions in dogs. AB - Continuous application of organic nitrates in patients causes a well-documented attenuation of their antianginal efficacy. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is assumed to reverse this nitrate tolerance by replenishing depleted intracellular sulphydryl groups, but data on NAC application in patients are controversial. Therefore, we studied the effect of NAC on epicardial artery vasomotion under nitrate tolerance, and we examined under these conditions the epicardial artery dilations induced by glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) and those mediated by the endothelium, since the activation of soluble guanylate cyclase is a common mechanism of these two reactions. Tolerance was induced in chronically instrumented dogs by long-term GTN infusion (1.5 micrograms kg-1 min-1 i.v. for 5 to 6 days) and shifted the GTN dose response curve of epicardial arteries to 17- to 20-fold higher doses. However, there was no alteration of epicardial artery dilations induced by SIN-1, another activator of guanylate cyclase, or of endothelium-mediated dilations. Furthermore, NAC (100 mg kg-1 i.v.) did not alter the dose-response relation of GTN under tolerance. In vitro, however, NAC potentiated the activation of purified soluble guanylate cyclase by GTN, while NAC without GTN was ineffective. In non-tolerant dogs, NAC slightly (1.5- to 2-fold) augmentated dilations induced by 0.5-1.5 micrograms kg-1 min-1 GTN, and a similar small augmentation of GTN dilations by NAC is observed in patients, regardless whether they are tolerant to nitrates or not. We conclude: (1) a step prior to the guanylate cyclase activation is responsible for GTN-specific tolerance of epicardial arteries in vivo. (2) NAC does not reverse GTN-specific tolerance.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515964 TI - Hyperventilation and ergonovine tests in Prinzmetal's variant angina: comparative sensitivity and relation with the activity of the disease. AB - Hyperventilation (HV) and ergonovine (E) tests were carried out in a group of 32 patients with variant angina to compare their sensitivity and to correlate the results with the activity of the disease. The HV test was positive in 84% of the patients and E in 94% of them; the percentage of positive responses to HV was similar to that to E (96% vs 100%) in the patients with daily attacks, while it was lower (55% vs 77%) in those with sporadic attacks. All 27 patients with a positive HV also had a positive response to E, while of the five patients with a negative HV, two also had a negative response to E and the other three had a positive E at a higher dose than that of the patients with daily attacks. The incidence of chest pain and of ST-segment elevation or depression or T-wave positivization was similar during the two tests; however, spontaneous remission of ischaemia was more frequent after HV than after E and ventricular arrhythmias less frequent during the HV test. At the onset of myocardial ischaemia pH was significantly higher compared with basal values (7.51 +/- 0.07 vs 7.38 +/- 0.05, P less than 0.001), while double product was not significantly different compared with basal (10.0 +/- 2.4 vs 9.2 +/- 2.1).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515967 TI - Coronary stenosis dilation by low dose intravenous nitroglycerin. AB - In a randomized double-blind study, 40 patients with coronary heart disease received either 0.025 mg nitroglycerin or placebo intravenously. Before and 2-3 min after injection, the aortic and left ventricular pressures were recorded and coronary angiography was performed. Mean heart rate, systolic and diastolic aortic pressure, left ventricular filling pressure and the pre- and poststenotic coronary artery diameters, as well as the diameters of representative distal coronary artery segments showed no significant changes. Coronary artery stenosis diameters remained unchanged after placebo (1.01 +/- 0.5 to 1.13 +/- 0.49 mm; n.s.) but increased significantly after nitroglycerin from 1.15 +/- 0.68 to 1.32 +/- 0.73 mm (P less than 0.01). Since it has been demonstrated, on the other hand, that the same dose of nitroglycerin reveals antianginal activity, it can be hypothesized from these results that dilatation of coronary stenoses plays an important role in the antianginal action of nitroglycerin. Strong haemodynamic effects do not appear to be a prerequisite of the beneficial effects of nitroglycerin. PMID- 2515968 TI - Diltiazem alone and combined with nitroglycerin: effect on normal and diseased human coronary arteries. AB - The vasodilatory effect of diltiazem and nitroglycerin on the large epicardial coronary arteries was evaluated in 26 patients with coronary artery disease. The luminal area of a normal and a stenotic coronary artery was determined at rest, after intracoronary administration of diltiazem, during submaximal exercise as well as 5 min after 1.6 mg sublingual nitroglycerin using biplane quantitative coronary arteriography. Twelve patients with no pretreatment prior to the exercise test served as group 1 (controls) and 14 patients with intracoronary administration of 2 to 3 mg diltiazem prior to the exercise test as group 2. Normal vessel: In the control group luminal area increased significantly during exercise (+23%, P less than 0.01) and after sublingual administration of nitroglycerin (+40%, P less than 0.001). In group 2 luminal area increased after intracoronary administration of diltiazem (+19%, P less than 0.01), during bicycle exercise (+23%, P less than 0.001) and after sublingual administration of nitroglycerin (+39%, P less than 0.001). Stenotic vessel: In the control group luminal area decreased significantly (-29%, P less than 0.001) during bicycle exercise but increased after sublingual administration of nitroglycerin at the end of the exercise test (+12%, NS vs. rest). In group 2 intracoronary administration of diltiazem was associated with a mild increase in stenosis area (+11%, P less than 0.05). There was a further increase in stenosis area during bicycle exercise (+23%, P less than 0.001 vs. rest) and after sublingual nitroglycerin (+32%, P less than 0.001). Coronary vasodilation of the stenotic segment was, however, significantly more pronounced after sublingual nitroglycerin in group 2 than 1 (+32% versus 12%, P less than 0.05).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515969 TI - Contrary effects of acetylcholine on coronary arteries and aortocoronary venous grafts in man. AB - The endothelium-dependent vasomotor responses differ in arteries and veins, and the transfer of veins into the arterial circulation by venous grafting may change their endothelial function. The purpose of this study was to examine the responses to acetylcholine in aortocoronary venous grafts of coronary arteries in man which may indicate differences in the endothelial function of these vessels. Five patients with venous grafts (12 to 72 months after implantation) and five patients without any angiographic evidence for coronary artery disease (controls) were examined. The effect of local infusions of acetylcholine (7-70 nmol min-1) on the vessel diameters was assessed by quantitative angiography. In controls, acetylcholine caused no consistent reaction, but in patients with venous grafts the arterial segments distal to the bypass anastomoses were contracted (7 nmol min-1: 82 +/- 2%; P greater than 0.01). We observed that aortocoronary venous grafts reacted differently to acetylcholine compared with the coronary arteries (P less than 0.05): a slight but not significant dilatation of the venous graft occurred (7 nmol min-1: 103 +/- 1%). The contraction of atherosclerotic coronary arteries of patients with aortocoronary venous grafts is in accord with the assumption of a loss of endothelium-dependent vasodilatation in coronary artery disease. The cholinergic influence on the vasomotor control of venous grafts seems to be either of little importance or less affected by atherosclerotic endothelial lesions than in coronary arteries. PMID- 2515970 TI - Degradation of vasoactive intestinal peptide by isolated, ventilated, and perfused rat lungs. AB - The degradation of vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) was studied using an isolated perfused rat lung model. 125iodine labelled VIP (125I-VIP) was used as a tracer. VIP was cleared from the perfusate by a single lung passage up to concentrations of 1 nmol l-1. The clearance rate was decreased at higher concentrations of VIP. VIP was taken up by the lung tissue and the cleavage products were re-extruded into the perfusate. The time delay of re-extrusion was increased at starting concentrations of VIP exceeding 1 nmol l-1 and in the presence of the lysosomal inhibitor chloroquine. After a bolus of 9 pmol or 40 nmol 125I-VIP into the pulmonary artery catheter 6.3 pmol or 2920 pmol, respectively, were bound by the lung. Most of the radioactive material was extruded within 25 min and consisted of low molecular weight 125I-labelled degradation products. We conclude that the receptors for VIP in the alveolar capillaries are of high affinity and capacity to extract VIP from the circulation and that lysosomes may be involved in the degradation. The degradation products are of low molecular weight. PMID- 2515971 TI - Plasma dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) is independent of sympathetic activity in humans. AB - To clarify the origin of plasma DOPA (3,4-Dihydroxyphenylalanine), the relationship between plasma DOPA and acute or chronic changes in sympathetic activity has been studied. Plasma DOPA and noradrenaline (NA) concentrations were measured by reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection. Administration of clonidine to healthy men decreased plasma NE markedly compared to no drug. Plasma DOPA decreased slightly but significantly with time, but values were identical after clonidine compared to no drug. Baseline plasma NE concentrations were significantly reduced in diabetic patients with autonomic neuropathy compared to diabetics without neuropathy, whereas baseline plasma DOPA concentrations were similar in the three groups investigated: 6.55 (5.03-7.26, median [interquartile range], n = 8) nmol l-1 in diabetics with neuropathy, 7.41 (5.79-7.97, n = 8) nmol l-1 in diabetics without neuropathy, and 6.85 (5.58-7.36, n = 8) nmol l-1 in controls. No relationship was obtained between baseline values of plasma NE and plasma DOPA. Plasma DOPA did not change in the upright position, whereas plasma NE increased significantly. Our results indicate that plasma DOPA is not related to sympathetic activity and may be of non-neuronal origin. PMID- 2515972 TI - Essential hypertension and insulin resistance in non-insulin-dependent diabetes. AB - A recent study has shown that young, lean, hypertensive subjects are more insulin resistant than corresponding normotensive subjects. Whether this finding can also be demonstrated in the presence of non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) is not known. Therefore, the degree of insulin resistance was studied in 26 middle-aged hypertensive patients with NIDDM (11 men, 15 women) and 14 normotensive patients with NIDDM (eight men, six women) matched for age, metabolic control and the duration of diabetes, utilizing the glucose clamp technique. Non-obese NIDD patients (body mass index less than 27.0 kg m-2) with hypertension (n = 11) had significantly lower glucose disposal rates (GDRs) during the last 60 min of euglycaemic (5.5 mmol l-1) and hyperinsulinaemic (approximately 600 pmol l-1) clamp studies than NIDD patients without hypertension (n = 6) (782 +/- 94 vs. 1418 +/- 97 mumol m-2 min-1, P less than 0.05). In contrast, GDRs were similar in obese NIDD patients with (n = 15) and without (n = 8) hypertension (802 +/- 90 vs. 849 +/- 90 mumol m-2/min-1, respectively, P = NS). Basal hepatic glucose output, suppression of hepatic glucose production during hyperinsulinaemia and insulin secretion capacity did not differ between hypertensive and normotensive subjects.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515973 TI - Treatment of endemic goitre due to iodine deficiency with iodine, levothyroxine or both: results of a multicentre trial. AB - Preliminary clinical studies and recent in vitro investigations suggest that iodine administration may be an effective alternative in the treatment of the diffuse euthyroid goitre of iodine deficiency. Therefore a 12-month multicentre study was initiated in which 166 patients were randomly assigned to take either 150 micrograms levothyroxine day-1 (group A, n = 61), 400 micrograms iodine day-1 (group B, n = 50), or a combination of 75 micrograms levothyroxine and 200 micrograms iodine day-1 (group C, n = 55) for 8 months with follow-up examinations at 4 and 8 months as well as 4 months after cessation of treatment. Initially, thyroid volume, as determined by ultrasound, was not significantly different in the three groups. In all three groups, during treatment a significant and comparable mean decrease in goitre size was documented (-32.1% in group A, -37.3% in group B, -38.7% in group C). After cessation of treatment in group A mean thyroid volume again increased to near the baseline value (-12.0% compared to the initial investigation), while the therapeutic effect was sustained in group B (-32.5%). In group C, only a slight rebound effect was observed (-26.3% vs baseline volume). Total thyroxine (T4) increased sharply and significantly in group A from 7.8 +/- 1.9 to 10.9 +/- 2.8 micrograms dl-1 after 8 months (P less than 0.001), but only slightly, although significantly in group B (from 7.8 +/- 1.5 micrograms dl-1 to 8.9 +/- 1.6 micrograms dl-1; P less than 0.02).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515974 TI - The diagnostic value of several immunological tests for anti-nuclear antibody in predicting the development of connective tissue disease in patients presenting with Raynaud's phenomenon. AB - One-hundred-and-one patients referred because of Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) were prospectively followed for a mean period of 42 months. At presentation they were screened for signs and symptoms of connective tissue disease (CTD) according to a detailed protocol. At presentation 37 patients had primary RP (PRP), nine had RP in combination with vascular occlusive disease (RP-VOD), 25 had one symptom of a CTD (questionable PRP), 13 had two or more symptoms (undifferentiated CTD, UCTD) and 17 had definite CTD. Progression from one of these groups to another was seen in 24 patients and from PRP, RP-VOD or questionable PRP towards a (U)CTD was seen in 19 patients. Patients with one sign of CTD showed a high tendency (56%) to develop CTD. The presence of ANA as detected by immunofluorescence and by immunoblotting at the start of the study was associated with the future development of symptoms of CTD; positive predictive value 65% and 71% and negative predictive value 93% and 83%, respectively. ANA-testing by immunoblotting was of special help in predicting the development of scleroderma, the CREST syndrome and mixed connective tissue disease. In conclusion, testing for ANA by indirect immunofluorescence helps to discriminate between patients with persisting PRP and those who will develop a CTD, while testing for ANA by the immunoblotting technique helps to predict the development of a specific CTD. PMID- 2515975 TI - Modulation of cytochrome P450 isozymes in human liver, by ethanol and drug intake. AB - Cytochromes P450 (P450) are a family of isozymes which play an important role in xenobiotic metabolism. The concentration of three P450 isozymes, namely P450 IIE1(A1c),-IIIA(NF) and -IIC8-10(MP) has been measured in human liver biopsies of patients with different alcohol and drug intake status. All these three P450s were expressed in all subjects. Ethanol intake increased P450-IIE1(A1c) content with no effect on the content of the two other P450s. Drug intake (barbiturates) increased both P450-IIIA(NF) and -IIC8-10(MP) content without any effect on P450 IIE1(A1c). This paper brought, at protein level, further evidence of the importance of environmental conditions on P450 isozyme pattern, and therefore, on drug metabolizing capacity of human liver. PMID- 2515976 TI - Relationship of agonist efficacy to changes in GABA sensitivity and anticonvulsant tolerance following chronic benzodiazepine ligand exposure. AB - Benzodiazepine ligands of differing efficacy including the agonist, diazepam, the partial agonist, Ro 16-6028 and the antagonist, Ro 15-1788, were administered in vivo to rats continuously for 3 weeks. The magnitude of change in various measures of GABA sensitivity could be correlated directly with increasing agonist efficacy: maximal changes were seen following chronic treatment with diazepam, intermediate changes were seen following the partial agonist Ro 16-6028 and no changes were observed following chronic Ro 15-1788 administration. The magnitude of change could also be correlated with increasing potential for tolerance development to anticonvulsant efficacy following chronic exposure to these benzodiazepine ligands. PMID- 2515977 TI - Pharmacological modulation of 86Rb efflux from aortic endothelial cells. AB - The ATP-induced efflux of 86Rb from prelabelled bovine aortic endothelial cells was inhibited by quinine (50 microM) but not by a tetraethylammonium (5 mM) or apamin (50 nM). Neither sulfonylureas nor pinacidil had a significant effect on the rate of 86Rb efflux from the endothelial cells. These data are consistent with the presence of intermediate conductance Ca2(+)-activated K+ channels in endothelial cells. ATP-dependent K+ channels, sensitive to sulfonylureas and pinacidil, could not be detected. PMID- 2515979 TI - Serum levels of apolipoproteins AI, AII and B in psoriasis. AB - Since an increased incidence of occlusive vascular disease has been reported in psoriasis, serum levels of apolipoproteins AI, AII and B were determined in 61 patients with the disease and compared with that of 34 healthy controls. No significant differences were found between the two groups. These findings suggest that the occurrence of thromboembolic disorders in psoriasis is not related to altered levels of apolipoproteins AI, AII, B in these patients. PMID- 2515978 TI - The epithelial basement membrane zone of the limbus. AB - The basement membrane zone of the limbal epithelium adjacent to the cornea was examined by ultrastructural and immunohistochemical techniques to determine whether differences exist between this region and central cornea. In human limbus, the percentage of basal cell membrane occupied by hemidesmosomes was significantly less (14.9 +/- 3.5) than that in central cornea 27.9 +/- 9.2), whereas the area of basement membrane/100 microns of cell membrane did not differ significantly. In rabbits, both percentage of membrane occupied by hemidesmosomes and area of basement membrane were less in the limbal region. Comparison of laminin and type VII collagen (anchoring fibril collagen) localisation in limbus and in central cornea demonstrated that both matrix proteins had a more convoluted pattern of localisation in the limbus. In addition, short segments of basement membrane with associated anchoring fibrils were present in the zone between the basal cells' basement membrane and blood vessels. These areas of duplicated basement membrane with anchoring fibrils were separated from the epithelium by layers of extracellular matrix that included collagen fibrils. Scanning electron microscopy of the surface topography of human limbal and central corneal basement membrane, prepared by removal of the epithelium with EDTA, demonstrated that in the limbal zone between the Palisades of Vogt and cornea, a very rough undulating surface was present with papillae or 'pegs' of stroma extending upward, and that central cornea lacked such papillae. Rabbit limbal basement membrane surface showed no such papillae, only occasional indentations into the stroma.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515980 TI - The selectivity of secretion: protein sorting in the endoplasmic reticulum. PMID- 2515981 TI - Prodrug derivatives of thyrotropin-releasing hormone and other peptides. PMID- 2515982 TI - Functional and morphological aspects of impaired TRH release by mediobasal hypothalamus of STZ-induced diabetic rats. AB - Streptozocin-induced diabetes (STZ-D) in rats is associated with marked hypothyroidism characterized by functional impairment and structural lesions of the pituitary-thyroid axis. Degenerative axonal lesions, which can be prevented by insulin administration, have been reported in the mediobasal hypothalamus (MBH) of STZ-D rats. However, direct evidence connecting anatomic MBH lesions with functional impairment is still missing. We therefore performed a combined functional and morphological investigation in 4-mo-old STZ-D male rats (diabetes lasted 1 mo), applying an in vitro model to study in the same isolated MBH 1) the basal and depolarization-induced thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) release during two successive incubations of 20 min each and 2) morphological and morphometric aspects, including distribution and amount (densitometric evaluation) of immunoreactive TRH in the incubated tissue. In basal conditions, TRH release was much lower in diabetic than control MBH during both incubations (P less than .01 vs. P less than .05). In depolarizing conditions, TRH release was increased during the second incubation in control (P less than .05) and during both incubations in diabetic (P less than .01) rats, the percentage increase of the TRH release due to ionic stimulation being much higher in diabetic than control animals (P less than .01). As determined by light microscope morphometry, the total area of dilated-axon cross sections was larger in diabetic than control MBH under basal conditions (P less than .01), thus confirming degenerative axonopathy in diabetic rats. By densitometry determination, the amount of immunoreactive TRH was higher in stimulated diabetic MBH compared with both stimulated control and basal diabetic MBH (P less than .01).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2515983 TI - Regulation of mammalian melanogenesis by tyrosinase inhibition. AB - Melanocyte stimulating hormone (MSH) specifically induces differentiation of mammalian melanocytes. To further define the biochemical events elicited by this stimulus, we have cloned murine melanoma cells which are either highly responsive or nonresponsive to MSH, and have examined their ultrastructural appearance, their melanogenic activities, and also their expression of tyrosinase. We have found that the basal levels of melanogenic activity in pigmented and nonpigmented cells correlate with expression of surface MSH receptors rather than with production of tyrosinase. Nonpigmented cells produce a potent, highly stable inhibitor of melanogenesis; this inhibitor acts directly on tyrosinase to dramatically and abruptly suppress melanin production. This posttranslational control of tyrosinase activity may represent a critical regulatory point in mammalian pigmentation. PMID- 2515984 TI - Effect of ampicillin-induced alterations in murine intestinal microbiota on the survival and competition of environmentally released pseudomonads. AB - The environmental release of genetically altered microorganisms has prompted the investigation of their potential health effects by the employment of other-than human models. Although direct health effects are addressed, this investigation examines primarily some potential indirect health effects associated with environmentally released microorganisms. Indirect effects examined include colonization of the gastrointestinal tract, competition with the resident microbiota, and translocation of the dosed microorganisms to other organs. Pseudomonads used in this study were isolated from a commercial product marketed for environmental PCB degradation. When mice were dosed by gavage with approximately 10(9) ampicillin-resistant pseudomonads, an increase in recovery from the intestinal tract, as compared to untreated animals, was observed 48 hr after dosing. Intestinal survival of Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain BC16 was enhanced 1000-fold and that of P. maltophilia strain BC6, 10-fold. Strains BC17 and BC18 were unaffected. Ampicillin treatment had a significant effect on the relative number of microbiota in the intestine, by selecting primarily for the facultative species. The lactose-fermenting enterobacteria, obligately anaerobic predominantly Gram-negative rods, and total aerobic and anaerobic populations were monitored in the presence and absence of the PCB-degrading pseudomonad. P. aeruginosa strain BC17 and P. maltophilia strain BC6 had a dose effect (p less than 0.05) on the total aerobic and anaerobic populations as well as the lactose fermenting enterobacteria. These results are similar to those for the mouse isolate control, strain PAMG. P. aeruginosa strain BC18 had a dose effect (p less than 0.05) on the total anaerobic population, including the obligately anaerobic Gram-negative bacilli. No translocation of the dosed strains to the liver, spleen, or lung was observed 48 hr after dosing. PMID- 2515985 TI - Influence of symmetrical polychlorinated biphenyl isomers on embryo and fetal development in mice. II. Comparison of 4,4'-dichlorobiphenyl, 3,3',4,4' tetrachlorobiphenyl, 3,3',5,5'-tetrachlorobiphenyl, and 3,3',4,4' tetramethylbiphenyl. AB - Outbred albino (CD-1) mice were given the following biphenyl isomers by gavage in cottonseed oil on Days 6-15 of gestation: 4,4'-dichlorobiphenyl (DCB) at 16, 32, and 64 mg/kg/day; 3,3',4,4'-tetrachlorobiphenyl (3,4-TCB) at 1,2,4,8,16,32, and 64 mg/kg/day; 3,3',5,5'-tetrachlorobiphenyl (3,5-TCB) at 64 mg/kg/day; and 3,3',4,4'-tetramethylbiphenyl (TMB) at 64 mg/kg/day. The mice were killed on Day 18 of gestation, necropsies were performed on the dams, and the fetuses were examined for external, visceral, and skeletal malformations. Although DCB was toxic to the dams at 64 mg/kg/day, developmental toxicity was not detected. 3,4 TCB administration was followed by a significant (p less than 0.01) increase in the average percentage of malformed fetuses per litter at 4 (7.2%), 8 (9.8%), 16 (25.4%), 32 (50.0%), and 64 (75.0%) mg/kg/day versus the vehicle control group (1.1%). None of the dosages tested was lethal to any of the dams. Significant decreases in maternal weight gain were observed at 16 mg/kg/day and above; however, the differences from the control value most likely were due to significant decreases in the mean number of live fetuses per dam, as the result of reductions in the number of implants per dam, and significant increases in the incidence of resorptions. Vaginal bleeding and other evidence of abortifacient effects also were present in several dams in groups receiving 3,4-TCB at 16 mg/kg/day and above. Cleft palate and hydronephrosis (significantly increased at dosages of 4 mg/kg/day and above) were the predominant malformations detected. Thus, 3,4-TCB was found to be toxic to the conceptus at dosages of 4 mg/kg/day and above. Neither 3,5-TCB nor TMB showed indications of maternal or developmental toxicity at 64 mg/kg/day. PMID- 2515986 TI - [Cloning the uridine phosphorylase (udp) gene of Escherichia coli and its expression in recombinant plasmids]. AB - On the basis of Escherichia coli DNA and vectors pBR322, pUC19, hybrid plasmids restoring Udp+ phenotype in the E. coli deletion (delta udp) mutant have been obtained. The udp gene is carried by a 8 kb PstI fragment (on the pUD2) and by a smaller 2.87 kb PstI-SalGI fragment from the PstI fragment (pUD7). The uridine phosphorylase level was 30 times higher in the cells containing hybrid plasmid as compared to the strain with chromosomal location of the udp gene. On the other hand, the measurements of uridine phosphorylase activity in the cytR- and cya- background indicate that expression of the cloned udp gene escapes partially negative control of the CytR repressor and positive control of cAMP--CRP complex. These data suggest that the 2.87 kb PstI--SalGI-fragment contains the intact udp gene which is transcribed from its own promoter. Increase in the activity of beta galactosidase encoded by udp-lacZ fusion has been observed in the presence of pUD2 or pUD7, which was suggested to be the consequence of titration of CytR repressor molecules in the operator region of the cloned udp. PMID- 2515987 TI - Linkage and segregation distortion in Drosophila melanogaster. AB - Segregation distortion is caused by a group of genetic elements in and near the centric heterochromatin of chromosome 2 of Drosophila melanogaster. These elements promote their preferential recovery in heterozygous males by rendering sperm bearing the homologous chromosome dysfunctional. Previous work has shown that numerous Y-autosome translocations are associated with the suppression of the segregation distorter phenotype. The present study examined the effects of translocations between the major autosomes upon the expression of segregation distortion. Autosomal translocations involving either the segregation distorter chromosome or its sensitive homologue had no significant effect upon the expression of segregation distortion. These results argue that linkage arrangement per se may not have a major effect on segregation distortion. The suppression of SD by specific Y-autosomal translocations may be due to the disruption of elements on the Y chromosome that are important for the expression of SD. PMID- 2515988 TI - Further observations on the nature of radiation-induced chromosomal interchanges recovered from Drosophila sperm. AB - The induction and analysis of numerous translocations (identified genetically and characterized cytologically) between chromosomes 2 and 3 of Drosophila melanogaster have allowed us to reexamine three issues concerning the nature of radiation-induced interchanges in spermatozoa. First, our results support the idea that, relative to their mitotic metaphase length, all major chromosomal regions are similar in their breakability, whether euchromatic (proximal or distal) or heterochromatic. Second, analysis of all our reciprocal exchanges between the two chromosomes shows a statistically significant dependence of the position of the chromosome 2 breakpoint on that of the chromosome 3 breakpoint. Thirdly, our combined cytological and genetic approach strengthens the results of previous analyses, which suggested a strong tendency for chromosomal interchanges to be of the reciprocal type in multiple-break rearrangements. This indicates that if radiation induces chromosome breaks, then the resulting broken ends tend to rejoin in pairs rather than independently. PMID- 2515989 TI - Relationship between chromosome content and nuclear diameter in early spermatids of Drosophila melanogaster. AB - We have studied, using light microscopy, the relationship between chromosome content and nuclear diameter in early spermatids of males carrying different combinations of wild-type and compound chromosomes in Drosophila melanogaster. By using these genotypes we have been able to observe spermatid nuclei bearing various numbers of chromosomes ranging from only one sex chromosome and no major autosomes to almost twice the normal chromosome complement. We have found that variations in the chromosome content are accompanied by increasing the variance in early spermatid nuclear diameter; the more gametic classes produced, the higher the variance of nuclear diameters. These results indicate that measuring nuclear diameters in early spermatids represents a useful way to estimate the levels of meiotic non-disjunction and thereby to improve the characterization of lethal or male sterile mutants in which analysis of meiotic chromosome non disjunction cannot be achieved by conventional genetic methods. PMID- 2515990 TI - Selective elimination of the contact site A protein of Dictyostelium discoideum by gene disruption. AB - The contact site A glycoprotein is a developmentally regulated cell-surface component expressed during the aggregation stage of Dictyostelium discoideum. This protein has been implicated in the EDTA-stable (Ca2(+)-independent) type of cell adhesion of aggregating cells. The gene coding for the contact site A protein was disrupted by homologous recombination, using a transformation vector that contained a 1.0-kb cDNA fragment as an insert. Transformants that did not express the protein were identified by colony immunoblotting. These transformants produced three truncated contact site A transcripts. One of them was controlled by the original contact site A promoter, as indicated by its strict developmental regulation and cAMP inducibility; the other two transcripts were transcribed from the actin 6 promoter of the vector. When cell adhesion was assayed in the transformants by agitating suspended cells in an agglutinometer, EDTA-stable adhesion was drastically reduced as compared to wild type, confirming that the contact site A glycoprotein acts as a cell-adhesion molecule. However, aggregation of the transformed cells on an agar surface was not remarkably altered. These results suggest that the contact site A glycoprotein is responsible for a 'fast' type of cell adhesion that is essential when aggregating cells are subjected to shear. When cells are not mechanically disturbed, a 'slow' type of adhesion mediated by other molecules is sufficient for their aggregation. PMID- 2515991 TI - Selection for pupation height in Drosophila melanogaster. AB - Divergent directional selection for high and low pupation height was practiced in D. melanogaster. A quick response was observed in the two directions of selection. This is the first time selection for low pupation sites was successful. Realized heritabilities were 18% and 13% for the high and low lines. Reciprocal crosses between divergent lines showed little or no dominance for low pupation sites. The need for a strict control of environmental factors when measuring pupation height is emphasized. PMID- 2515992 TI - High-level expression of recombinant genes in Escherichia coli is dependent on the availability of the dnaY gene product. AB - We have observed that proteins, such as human tissue-type plasminogen activator, pro-urokinase or gp41 of human immunodeficiency virus, which have a high content of rare codons in their respective genes, are not readily expressed in Escherichia coli. Furthermore induction of these heterologous genes leads to growth inhibition and plasmid instability. Supplementation with tRNA(AGA/AGG(Arg)) by cotransfection with the dnaY gene, which supplies this minor tRNA, resulted in high-level production with greatly improved cell viability and plasmid stability. PMID- 2515993 TI - Functional expression of a Rhodospirillum rubrum gene encoding dinitrogenase reductase ADP-ribosyltransferase in enteric bacteria. AB - The function of the cloned draT gene of Rhodospirillum rubrum was studied by placing it under the control of the tac promoter in the vector, pKK223-3. After induction with isopropyl-beta-D-thiogalactopyranoside, dinitrogenase reductase ADP-ribosyltransferase (DRAT) activity was detected in crude extracts of the heterologous hosts Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae. In addition, the expression of draT produced a Nif- phenotype in the otherwise wild-type K. pneumoniae strains, the result of the ADP-ribosylation of accumulated dinitrogenase reductase (DR). DR from a nifF- background was also susceptible to ADP-ribosylation, indicating that the oxidized form of DR will serve as a substrate for DRAT in vivo. A mutation that changes the Arg-101 residue of DR, the ADP-ribose attaching site, eliminates the ADP-ribosylation of DR in vivo, confirming the necessity of this residue for modification. PMID- 2515994 TI - Cloning and expression of the Lactococcus lactis subsp. cremoris SK11 gene encoding an extracellular serine proteinase. AB - The Lactococcus lactis subsp. cremoris SK11 plasmid-located prtP gene, encoding a cell-envelope-located proteinase (PrtP) that degrades alpha s1-, beta- and kappa casein, was identified in a lambda EMBL3 gene library in Escherichia coli using immunological methods. The complete prtP gene could not be cloned in E. coli and L. lactis on high-copy-number plasmid vectors. However, using a low-copy-number vector, the complete prtP gene could be cloned in strains MG1363 and SK1128, proteinase-deficient derivatives of L. lactis subsp. lactis 712 and L. lactis subsp. cremoris SK11, respectively. The proteinase deficiency of these hosts was complemented to wild-type (wt) levels by the cloned SK11 prtP gene. The caseinolytic specificity of the proteinase specified by the cloned prtP gene was identical to that encoded by the wt proteinase plasmid, pSK111. The expression of recombinant plasmids containing 3' and 5' deletions of prtP was analyzed with specific attention directed towards the location of the gene products. In this way the expression signals of prtP were localized and overproduction was obtained in L. lactis subsp. lactis. Furthermore, a region at the C terminus of PrtP was identified which is involved in cell-envelope attachment in lactococci. A deletion derivative of prtP was constructed which specifies a C-terminally truncated proteinase that is well expressed and fully secreted into the medium, and still shows the same capacity to degrade alpha s1-, beta- and kappa-casein. PMID- 2515995 TI - The cloned polC gene of Bacillus subtilis: characterization of the azp12 mutation and controlled in vitro synthesis of active DNA polymerase III. AB - Wild type (wt) Bacillus subtilis polC and polCazp12, a mutant derivative specifying a form of DNA polymerase III resistant to hydroxyphenylazopyrimidines, were cloned as genomic fragments approximating the length required to encode the entire polymerase. The cloned DNA fragments were subjected to restriction and partial sequence analysis to locate the 5' end of the polC-specific coding sequence and the azp12 mutation, which was identified as a T----G transversion specifying replacement of serine with alanine. The cloned wt and azp12-coding sequences were recloned in an Escherichia coli expression vector with their respective 5' ends under the control of the bacteriophage lambda PL promoter and cIts857-encoded repressor. In response to induction, the wt- and azp12-specific recombinant plasmids expressed active DNA polymerases indistinguishable from the native enzymes derived from the respective B. subtilis hosts. PMID- 2515996 TI - Expression of the rtp gene of Bacillus subtilis is required for replication fork arrest at the chromosome terminus. AB - It was earlier proposed that clockwise replication fork arrest at the chromosome terminus in Bacillus subtilis is dependent upon expression of the rtp gene adjacent to the site of arrest, terC [Smith and Wake, J. Bacteriol. 170 (1988) 4083-4090]. A merodiploid strain of B. subtilis, in which rtp was placed under the control of the IPTG-inducible spac-1 promoter, was constructed. Replication fork arrest at terC, as monitored by the level of a forked DNA molecule of predicted dimensions, was shown to be dependent upon IPTG-induced expression of rtp in this strain. The very low concentration of IPTG needed to induce a substantial level of fork arrest suggests that relatively little RTP, the protein product of rtp, is needed for fork arrest at terC. PMID- 2515997 TI - The consensus sequence of ice nucleation proteins from Erwinia herbicola, Pseudomonas fluorescens and Pseudomonas syringae. AB - The consensus sequence of three bacterial ice nucleation proteins was determined by extrapolation from the nucleotide (nt) sequences of three ice nucleation encoding genes, iceE (presented here), inaW and inaZ. The three proteins possess considerable similarity, so that a preferred amino acid is shown in most positions of the consensus. The corresponding genes show considerable divergence in the third nt positions of synonymous codons, suggesting that the proteins' conserved features have been maintained by selection. Therefore, the consensus sequence is likely to represent the components of primary structure most important to the ice nucleation function. PMID- 2515998 TI - Variations in care planning practice in the social/HMO: an exploratory study. AB - In this exploratory study, we examined the influence of provider settings, organizational structures, and community climates on long-term care resource allocation. We analyzed care plan decisions at each of the four Social/HMO sites for the same seven clients. Differences by site were found in eligibility determination and allocation of care plans, as well as types and mix of services prescribed. Issues are raised about the influence of provider settings on legitimation of types of needs and clients that are served. PMID- 2515999 TI - Case management for frail elders: the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation's Program for Hospital Initiatives in Long-Term Care. AB - This evaluation of 24 hospital-based case management services found that case management could take a variety of forms, ranging from postacute medical management service to planning community-based care for potential long-term care users. Future research should concentrate on documenting the costs and outcomes of various models of case management in acute care settings. PMID- 2516000 TI - Application of a multidimensional caregiver burden inventory. AB - Multidimensional measures of caregiver burden give a sensitive reading of caregivers' feelings and a sophisticated picture of caregivers' responses to the demands of care. This paper reports on the development of a 24-item, five subscale Caregiver Burden Inventory (CBI) and demonstrates its use as a diagnostic tool for professional caregivers. It concludes with a discussion of several ways that professional caregivers can use this multidimensional measure of caregiver burden. PMID- 2516001 TI - Mental status as a predictor of daily function in progressive dementia. AB - To evaluate a standardized mental status exam's ability to predict activities of daily living (ADLs), Mini Mental Status Exam (MMSE) scores and ADL scores were obtained from 59 patients with progressive dementias of widely varying severity but with no other psychiatric disorders or major medical problems. The MMSE scores explained only about one-third of the variance in both instrumental ADLs and physical ADLs in the whole sample, and the MMSE and ADLs were independent of one another in the less demented half of the sample. This suggests that cognitive losses and functional impairments are two distinct aspects of dementia severity, which must be assessed separately. PMID- 2516002 TI - Fibronectin and postpartum infection in rabbits: an animal model. AB - A rabbit model was explored in preliminary studies of uterine colonization and infection, following cesarean section (CS), by toxigenic Staphylococcus aureus (Harrisburg) and other bacterial species known to be isolated from traumatized human uteri; effects on host susceptibility of fibronectin prophylaxis were studied. Histological characteristic and plasma fibronectin levels were recorded in double-blinded studies of four groups of rabbits (55 total), all sacrificed 96 h after CS performed at term. Animals which were inoculated without fibronectin prophylaxis, showed stable or slightly elevated plasma fibronectin levels through 96 h. Rabbits inoculated with nontoxigenic S. aureus (Wiley) exhibited stable fibronectin levels and less microscopic evidence of infection. All inoculated animals were colonized, but those that received fibronectin cryoprecipitate intravenously at CS showed less microscopic evidence of infection. Fibronectin levels for rabbits scores as 'seriously infected' were nearly 1.5 times that of controls. This is in contrast to other clinical studies in which chronic infections and poor clinical outcome have been strongly correlated with decreased plasma fibronectin levels. Histochemical studies of antifibronectin binding suggested that less fibronectin is deposited throughout the endometrial stroma of animals that received fibronectin prior to bacterial challenge. An increased polymorphonuclear leukocytic reaction in the stroma near the incisions was observed in animals that received fibronectin prophylaxis, with or without bacterial challenge. This reaction may be characterized as an acute-phase reaction. PMID- 2516003 TI - Rabbit plasma fibronectin levels associated with Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxin B: an acute-phase reaction. AB - Variation in fibronectin (Fn) levels and white blood cell counts (WBC) following staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) or SEB + cryoprecipitate containing Fn challenge was studied in New Zealand white rabbits. Increased plasma Fn levels were observed 2 h after the intravenous injection of SEB and peaked at 48-72 h (from a mean level 194.6 +/- 4.5 micrograms/ml prechallenge Fn level to a 72-hour postchallenge mean level of 407.9 +/- 25.4 micrograms/ml). Fn levels then decreased over the succeeding 5 days to approximately prechallenge levels. The total WBC count decreased by 88% within 2 h after the SEB injection. A slow increase in circulatory WBC was observed over the next 24 h. SEB caused an increase in plasma Fn levels and decreased WBC counts with lymphopenia that was followed by a normal lymphocyte count within 5 days. These data suggest that an acute-phase reaction was induced by interleukin-1. Fn prophylaxis provided no change in clinical signs when given at the time of SEB injection. PMID- 2516004 TI - Clinical experience with human plasma-derived factor VIIa in patients with hemophilia A and high titer inhibitors. AB - FVIIa purified from human plasma and spontaneously activated during the purification procedure was given to 4 patients with hemophilia A and inhibitors against FVIII:C in association with joint bleeds. A dose of 9-20 micrograms/kg b.w. (700-1,000 U/kg b.w.) seemed to be hemostatically active in moderate to severe joint bleeds. Plasma levels of FVII of 5-7 U/ml were achieved and recoveries varied between 17 and 66%. The lower recovery rates of 17-39% were all found in 1 of the patients. No immediate side effects were seen. Neither were any signs of a systemic activation of the coagulation system observed. It is concluded that highly purified FVIIa may be useful in the treatment of hemophilia A patients with inhibitors against FVIII:C. PMID- 2516005 TI - [Penicillin VK absorption during fasting and after eating]. AB - The absorption of penicillin VK (Rafapen) was evaluated in 12 children, 3-16 years.old, with infections due to penicillin-sensitive organisms. In each, 50 mg/kg of Rafapen was given after an overnight fast, and the next day the same amount was administered after a standard hospital breakfast. Blood samples were drawn before and 30, 60 and 90 min after the drug was given. Serum penicillin levels were determined by comparing the inhibition of growth on plates of Staphylococcus aureus (Oxford strain), with that of standard penicillin G concentrations. The serum levels after the overnight fast were higher, 4.75 U/ml, as compared to 3.38 U/ml 30 min after the drug was given following breakfast. This increase was abolished at 60 and 90 min, when the serum levels were 1.96 and 1.05 U/ml, respectively. We advise the use of oral penicillin VK in infections due to penicillin-sensitive organisms, without regard to feeding schedule. PMID- 2516006 TI - [Histological study on the ossification of the yellow ligament in the thoracolumbar spines of the cadavers. Especially on the early stage of the ossification]. AB - The occurrence process of ossification of the yellow ligament (OYL) was studied radiographically and histologically by using the thoracolumbar spines of the cadavers taken out as en bloc. The subjects were from 44 to 89 years at age (average 66.1 years). After taking roentgenographs, the specimens were sectioned sagittally for histological observations with H-E stain, elastica.van-Gieson stain, safranin-O stain and alcian blue stain. The findings were as follows. 1. Roentgenographically, OYL was evidently found in 6 cases with average age of 71.5 years, while not found in 4 cases with average age of 58.0 years. OYL was more frequently recognized in elderly cadavers. This fact is presumed to be one of the physiological aging processes. 2. Histologically, ossification was found to start in the superior margin of the lamina. Ligament fibers of the yellow ligament attached to the bone tissue piercing through the uncalcified cartilage zone, tide mark and calcified cartilage zone in order. This structure is called enthesis. In the early stage of ossification, cartilage zone became wide being followed by endochondral ossification. Elastic fibers in the cartilage zone became sparse and fine granular calcification was focally found in the uncalcified cartilage zone. Then, these changes also occurred in the ligamentous attachment of the superior lamina, but they were more evident in the superior margin of the inferior lamina. 3. In the advanced stage of ossification, there were a widening of tide mark and an increase of chondrocytes in number. Linear calcified deposits were observed along the ligamentous fibers. Elastic fibers were reduced in the cartilage zone, enlarged and deranged.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2516007 TI - Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis associated with small intestinal diverticulosis and bacterial overgrowth. AB - A patient with hepatic histological features of steatohepatitis in association with small bowel diverticulosis and bacterial overgrowth is described. A similar histological picture in the liver is well recognised in association with bacterial overgrowth in excluded loops of small intestine. Jejunal diverticulosis should be considered as a correlate of para-alcoholic hepatitis. PMID- 2516008 TI - Occlusion of small hepatic veins associated with systemic lupus erythematosus with the lupus anticoagulant and anti-cardiolipin antibody. AB - We report the case of a woman with lupus anticoagulant-positive systemic lupus erythematosus who developed small hepatic vein occlusion. Since the age of 34, she had been known to have hepatomegaly. A definitive diagnosis of systematic lupus erythematosus was made eight years later. Histological evaluation of the liver biopsy specimen was not fully diagnostic of prominent hepatomegaly during this period. Occlusion of the small hepatic veins was confirmed by hepatic venography, but the lumen of the large hepatic veins showed a smooth appearance. The lupus anticoagulant and anti-cardiolipin antibody were both positive. Since a high incidence of thromboembolic diseases in patients with the lupus anticoagulant or anti-cardiolipin antibody has been reported, the presence of this type of anticoagulant may provide an explanation for hypercoagulability and subsequent development of hepatic vein thrombosis in this patient. This is the first report of a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus who developed an occlusion of small hepatic veins attributable to the lupus anticoagulant and anticardiolipin antibody. This case suggested that a systematic search for hepatic vein occlusion should be made in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus who have developed inexplicable hepatomegaly, especially in those with positive tests for the lupus anticoagulant and/or anti-cardiolipin antibody. PMID- 2516009 TI - [Segmental neurofibromatosis. Description of our 2d clinical case and review of the literature]. AB - Segmental neurofibromatosis is characterized by the unilateral and segmental appearance of neurofibromas, schwannomas, plexiform neurofibromas and/or cafe au lait spots and axillary freckling. The aetiology is not clear but the disorder has been postulated to be secondary to a postzygotic (hence non-transmissable) somatic mutational event. In the present study we describe a 43 year old woman affected by neurofibromas on the left forearm. This is our second report of a case of segmental neurofibromatosis and occurs shortly afterwords the first. To the best of our knowledge only 28 additional cases of this very rare disease have been reported in the literature. Their main features are reviewed. PMID- 2516010 TI - Brain histomorphology in protein deprived rhesus monkeys with fatal malarial infection. AB - Healthy and protein deprived rhesus monkeys were inoculated with a virulent strain of Plasmodium knowlesi, to determine the morphological changes in the brain and to establish whether this model could be utilised as an experimental model for cerebral malaria. The histomorphological changes produced in the brain did not correspond with the changes conforming to those of cerebral malaria. The changes observed in healthy controls were cerebral oedema, high percentage of parasitised RBCs in the cerebral capillaries, with prominent and, at places, disrupted endothelium. In the protein deprived animals, cerebral oedema was the only conspicuous feature. It appears that the P. knowlesi-rhesus monkey combination is not suitable as an experimental model for cerebral malaria. PMID- 2516011 TI - Slow thaw siphon technique for cryoprecipitate production. AB - The efficacy of the slow thaw siphon technique for making cryoprecipitate was evaluated. A hundred consecutive bags of cryoprecipitate were subjected to analysis. The average Factor VIII:C level in donors plasma was 1.02 IU/ml with slightly lower levels of Factor VIII:C in O group persons and in the older age group. The average Factor VIII:C content per bag of cryoprecipitate was 132 units with the average Factor VIII:C yield of 57.8 per cent. Recovery of the cryoprecipitates made by this method was tested in vivo in ten haemophiliacs with less than 1 per cent activity. An average increment of 1.91 per cent in Factor VIII:C levels was obtained by infusion of 1 IU/kg body weight. PMID- 2516012 TI - Immunoglobulins profile of measles. AB - Immunoglobulins profile was carried out in 60 cases of measles (30 each with and without complications) and 30 age and sex matched controls. Antibody titres and immunoglobulins levels (IgG, IgM and IgA) were determined by hemagglutination inhibition and single radial immunodiffusion techniques, respectively. Though higher IgG and IgM levels were found in complicated cases compared to controls, more importantly lower IgA levels were seen in these cases. As most of the measles complications are secondary bacterial infections of mucosal surfaces, it is postulated that these patients might have been selected for a relatively severe form of the disease due to either a pre-existing or induced IgA deficiency. PMID- 2516013 TI - Cost-effective validation of screening tests. PMID- 2516014 TI - A cost-effectiveness analysis of a simple micromethod for hepatitis B screening in hepatitis B virus control programmes. AB - We developed a simple micromethod for identifying mothers who are most likely to transmit hepatitis B infection to their infants, using reverse passive haemagglutination for detecting HBsAg (hepatitis B surface antigen) in capillary blood. This screening method was evaluated against other strategies for hepatitis B control by means of decision- and cost-effectiveness analyses. The micromethod was shown to be cost-effective when the cost of hepatitis B vaccine was high. However, with increasingly reduced costs of the vaccine, it may have a limited role in a programme of mass immunization for hepatitis B. PMID- 2516015 TI - Diabetics treated with continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion pumps. AB - Sixteen insulin-dependent diabetics commenced continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) pumps either because of poor control (15 patients), or because of preference (1 patient). The study examined the diabetic control achieved, patients attitudes and CSII pump complications. Statistically significant improvements in HbAlC which fell from a pre-treatment mean of 12.57% to 10.0% at three months (p less than 0.01) and 10.6% at six months (p less than 0.02) were achieved. At nine months the improvement was not statistically significant. Fourteen of the 16 patients wished at the end of one year to continue this treatment. This study reports a low rate of symptomatic hypoglycaemia and infusion site infection. However, there was a large number of cases of ketoacidosis which highlights the need for extreme vigilance in monitoring patients treated by this method. PMID- 2516016 TI - What young children say about stress and coping in school. PMID- 2516017 TI - Academic stress and health changes in female college students. PMID- 2516018 TI - Implementing the nation's health objectives for the 1990s: the role of the secondary and elementary health education specialist. PMID- 2516019 TI - The development of health promotion teams as related to wellness programs in Texas schools. PMID- 2516020 TI - A comparison of peer educator, media and screening only approaches in reducing cardiovascular risk among corrections personnel. PMID- 2516021 TI - Health services administration skills: an overlooked need of community health education and health promotion. PMID- 2516022 TI - Mock disaster: an effective lesson in preparation for the real thing. PMID- 2516023 TI - Evaluation of a self-instructional program in stress management for college students. PMID- 2516024 TI - Utilization of pets in a hospice program. PMID- 2516026 TI - Tantalizing textbook tests, Part II: True-false, matching, completion and essay. PMID- 2516025 TI - Effects of contraceptive education on adolescent male contraceptive behavior and attitudes. PMID- 2516027 TI - A cholesterol primer for health educators. PMID- 2516028 TI - A portrait of the health educators of 2001. PMID- 2516029 TI - Student interest in a protocol-based system for self-care decision making. PMID- 2516030 TI - Mental health vs. mental illness: a philosophical discussion. PMID- 2516031 TI - Applications software packages in the school health program. PMID- 2516032 TI - The most important influences on health promotion: a panel discussion. Interview by Moon S. Chen. PMID- 2516033 TI - Inoculating students against using smokeless tobacco. PMID- 2516034 TI - Pet Rx: implications for good health. AB - According to Dr. Aaron Ketcher, Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania, studies reveal that potential health values exist in use of pets in the rehabilitation process. Caution, however, must be taken. Animals are not a cure-all, but they can be urged as valuable complements to service offerings. As presented by AARP Board member Marion Waite, "Pets are good for your health." She goes on to state that pets help reduce stress and blood pressure and speed up recovery from traumatic incidents such as moves, illness, or the death of a loved one (AARP, 1987). Growing understanding of relationships between people and their pets suggests benefits that barely have been tapped. Some forecasters have predicted that one day patients may receive a prescription to obtain a pet as routinely as prescribed medication. Incorporating animals as a therapeutic approach for the development and rehabilitation of special population members can be unique and beneficial. Animal therapy can be a salutary form of rehabilitation if the program is organized, supervised, and implemented in a professional manner. Implementing this approach may result in promoting unconditional acceptance and enhancing the normalization process for special population members. PMID- 2516035 TI - The AAHE membership survey: results and insights from a national study. PMID- 2516036 TI - Oral contraception: a survey of college women's concerns and experience. PMID- 2516037 TI - Enhancing systems objectives for the year 2000. AB - In summary, systems objectives would provide an ecological perspective that would help to (1) avoid emphasis on mortality statistics, (2) enable the nation to address a broader range of problems including mental and social dimensions, (3) provide for greater efficiency in meeting the objectives by emphasizing systems that address a broad range of health problems, (4) support continuation of successful programs which are still needed, and (5) facilitate development of programs or responses to health problems with recognition of the great diversity of the physical and social environment where problems exist. Federal public health efficacy could be improved significantly if these systems objectives were incorporated into the nation's health objectives for the year 2000. PMID- 2516040 TI - Race and gender: analysis of granting of doctoral degrees. PMID- 2516038 TI - The most important influences in health promotion: continuation of the panel discussion. Interview by Moon S. Chen. PMID- 2516039 TI - Politics and health. PMID- 2516042 TI - Exercise and weight loss: the uncertain connection. PMID- 2516041 TI - Racial and gender composition of health education faculty in higher education. PMID- 2516043 TI - Preparing students for travel abroad. PMID- 2516044 TI - The role of social support on health throughout the lifecycle. AB - The role of social supports throughout the lifecycle has dynamic implications on health and psychosocial wellness. Establishment of a stable supportive family early in life seems to be a consistent support drawn upon throughout the lifecycle. Other social support predictors which may affect health include high quality supports from friends, total network size, age, gender, marital status, income, and threatening life events. Implications of social supports throughout the lifecycle should encourage health educators of all types to promote quality social supports within the family, schools, and community. PMID- 2516045 TI - First, do no harm. AB - Returning to the concept presented at the beginning of this paper, in an era when for many people the quality and longevity of life have never been better, why are there increasing levels of dissatisfaction with life? According to Thomas (1974), "there is something fundamentally, radically unhealthy about all this. We do not seem to be seeking more exuberance in living as much as staving off failure, putting off dying. We have lost all confidence in the human body. The new consensus is that we are badly designed, intrinsically fallible, vulnerable to a host of hostile influences. We live in danger of falling apart at any moment and are therefore always in need of surveillance and propping up." Certainly health educators cannot accept all the blame for this contemporary fad; however, they may contribute to the phenomenon by implicitly suggesting that people are entitled to some idealized level of health and wellness which includes halcyon days immune from the pain and ravages of life in the real world.2+ Henry David Thoreau offered a perceptive view of how life should be experienced when he wrote: "I did not wish to live what was not life, living is so dear; nor did I wish to practice resignation, unless it was quite necessary.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2516046 TI - Living with AIDS: a play for middle high school through adult students. PMID- 2516047 TI - Does "activated" alcohol education reduce disruptive drinking behavior among university students? PMID- 2516048 TI - Adolescent knowledge of smokeless tobacco's health consequences. PMID- 2516049 TI - The most important influences in health promotion: continuation of the panel discussion. Interview by Moon S. Chen. PMID- 2516051 TI - Marriage yesterday and today. PMID- 2516050 TI - Preventing growth hormone abuse: an emerging health concern. PMID- 2516052 TI - Health education teacher certification in the United States. PMID- 2516053 TI - The dilemma of Native American health. PMID- 2516054 TI - Point of view: Indian sobriety must come from Indian solutions. PMID- 2516055 TI - Cervical cancer, a major killer of Hispanic women: implications for health education. PMID- 2516056 TI - Psychosocial factors influencing inner city black diabetic patients' adherence with insulin. PMID- 2516057 TI - Intentional teenage pregnancy: a community diagnosis and action plan. PMID- 2516058 TI - Health promotion strategies for prevention of human immunodeficiency virus infection among minority adolescents. AB - Programs designed to increase self-protective behaviors are urgently needed to avert a marked increase in HIV infection among minority adolescent populations. AIDS interventions which neglect any component of the prevention triad severely limit potential for positively impacting on adolescent risk behaviors. Proactive programs which integrate these equally critical components, on the other hand, have a greater likelihood of achieving maximal outreach and effectiveness, and consequently preventing the spread of HIV infection among minority adolescent populations. PMID- 2516059 TI - AIDS education and risk reduction for homeless women and children: implications for health education. AB - The most preferable approach to implementing an AIDS education program among homeless women would be to establish a systematic comprehensive procedure addressing political, social, economic, and health concerns facing the ethnic minority community. A pragmatic approach would be to implement health education programs within the closed environment of homeless shelters. Such programs should incorporate distribution of materials which include specific information about how AIDS can be transmitted and prevented using simple and culturally relevant language. Health education interventions should use former homeless women in addition to health educators in development of exercises to improve self-esteem, communication, and decision making skills as related to negotiation of safe sex with their partners. Implementation of this process may help health educators make a meaningful contribution to the promotion of AIDS education and risk reduction for HIV infection within the growing population of homeless women and children in the United States. PMID- 2516060 TI - The indigenous model and its application to heart health for Southeast Asians. PMID- 2516061 TI - Establishing interorganizational arrangements between volunteer community-based groups. PMID- 2516063 TI - The office of minority health resource center: impacting on health related disparities among minority populations. PMID- 2516062 TI - Community organization and development for health promotion within an urban black community: a conceptual model. AB - The community organization and development process is not new and has its roots in social action ideology from the 1960s. The difference between the 1960s and the 1990s is in bringing together of target community consumers with representatives of private and public sector resources (with consumers in the majority), to form a community coalition board. This community coalition board must make policy decisions. Combining these community organizers and development techniques with the mission of health promotion is a viable methodology for addressing the needs of medically underserved and unserved communities. The approach is a multifactorial one, as illustrated in Figure 1. The Health Promotion Resource Center at Morehouse School of Medicine seeks to combine the ideology of community organization and development with culturally sensitive and linguistically appropriate health promotion curriculum materials and intervention strategies. Within the HPRC lies the Statewide Coordinating Center for Georgia which has been funded by the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation. Its mandate is to assist minority and poor communities in Georgia in developing community-based health promotion initiatives which address the areas of cancer, cardiovascular disease, adolescent pregnancy, substance abuse, and violence and unintentional injury. Our strategy in carrying out this mandate is the community organization and development model described in this article. PMID- 2516064 TI - A process evaluation of a community-based health promotion program for a minority target population. PMID- 2516065 TI - Health education for African Americans: a neglected task. PMID- 2516066 TI - Minority barbers screen customers for hypertension. PMID- 2516067 TI - Self-efficacy and outcome expectations in the self-regulation of non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus. PMID- 2516068 TI - Student multi-ethnicity: the untapped health education resource. PMID- 2516070 TI - Content analysis in health education research: an introduction to purposes and methods. PMID- 2516069 TI - Knowledge of chlamydial infection among university students. PMID- 2516071 TI - Nutrient analysis methodology: a review of the DINE developmental literature. AB - In 1986, a collaborative effort among professional associations resulted in the publication of Worksite Nutrition: A Decision Maker's Guide (The American Diabetic Association, 1986). The booklet describes nutrient analysis methodology as a good "promotional gimmick". The development of DINE was an effort to move nutrient analysis from the gimmick level to a viable educational component level. A few examples of the innovative effects of this methodology are (1) individuals' using their own data can learn energy balance by monitoring their food intake and physical activity, (2) individuals can learn the Dietary Goals for the United States (U. S. Senate Select Subcommittee on Nutrition and Human Needs, 1977) and are able graphically to compare how their diet approximates or is different from these goals, and (3) individuals can also learn, from verifications of their own food records, which of their food selections were high in calories, total fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol, and low in complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber. Alternative healthful food choices are identified and the effects of reducing or increasing portion sizes is described. The DINE development team has been working for the past eight years to decrease nutrient analysis variability so that the procedure can be used as an effective independent measure to improve nutritional behavior. Research has been conducted related to database validity and reliability. Formative and process evaluations have been conducted to improve interactive aspects of the software and related manuals and books. DINE procedures have been modified for ease of use, in general, and specifically for elementary students and university students. PMID- 2516072 TI - Smokers and smokeless tobacco users: a comparison of personality characteristics among collegiate males. PMID- 2516073 TI - Cooking dinner while the house is burning: an environmental scientist's view of health education needs for the 1990s. PMID- 2516075 TI - Enhancing student decision-making through use of critical thinking/questioning techniques. PMID- 2516074 TI - Preventing eye damage from the sun's ultraviolet light: what health educators should teach. PMID- 2516076 TI - The most important influences in worksite health promotion: conclusion of the panel discussion. Interview by Moon S. Chen Jr. PMID- 2516077 TI - Analysis of elimination mechanisms of some 99mTc-complexes. AB - The biological behaviour of complexes of 99mTc with aminopolycarboxylic and aminocarbohydroxamic ligands EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid), DTPA (diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid), EDTAH (ethylenediaminetetraacetohydroxamic acid) and HIDAmH (N-2-hydroxyethyl-N-carboxymethyl-aminoacetohydroxamic acid) was studied in rabbits. The pharmacokinetic parameters determined in intact rabbits were compared with the results obtained in the study of renal and hepatic clearance of the complexes under study. Hepatobiliary excretion, which in [99mTc]EDTA forms 20-30% of the total excreted amount, is of negligible magnitude in the other 99mTc-complexes studied (less than 2%). Their renal clearance is not influenced by the inhibition of tubular secretion with probenecid. Binding to plasma proteins increases in the order [99mTc]DTPA less than [99mTc]EDTA less than [99mTc]HIDAmH less than [99mTc]EDTAH and the elimination half-life increases in the same order. The value of renal clearance of the complexes studied related to inulin clearance correlates well with the fraction of the free drug in the plasma. In rabbits the complexes under study are excreted mainly by the mechanism of glomerular filtration in the kidney. PMID- 2516078 TI - Indium-111 oxine labeled erythrocytes: cellular distribution and efflux kinetics of the label. AB - Indium-111 oxine label erythrocytes are useful in scintigraphic studies of splenic function because of the high yield of gamma-photons [172(90%) and 247(94%) keV] of indium-111. However, the effects of indium-111 oxine on the structural and functional integrity of erythrocytes which might influence their reticulo-endothelial (RE) sequestration are unknown. We examined the morphology of human and rat indium-111 labeled erythrocytes by SEM, the distribution of the label within the cell by analysis of the membrane and cytosol (hemoglobin solution) and the kinetics of efflux of indium-111 from erythrocytes incubated at 37 degrees C in plasma or physiological buffer. Indium-111 oxine labeled red cells retain their discocytic morphology and the cell indices, and density characteristics on phthalate ester are similar to those of the control cells. The efficiency of labeling may be as high as 97%. Human or rat erythrocyte membranes retain 33 and 41% of indium-111, and the cytosol contains 67 and 59%, respectively. About 98% of the indium-111 is bound to the membrane proteins and 1% to the lipid bilayer. Efflux of indium-111 from cells in autologous plasma showed a multiphasic release resulting in about 4-5% release of the label in 2 h and 11.5% in 20 h. Cells in PBS showed 1-5% release of the label during the incubation period. These findings suggest that indium-111 oxine labeling of erythrocytes does not grossly alter the structural and deformability integrity of the cells to induce selective RE sequestration, unless the cells have been damaged prior to or during the labeling procedure, or the spleen is hyperactive. PMID- 2516079 TI - Expanded availability of dideoxyinosine (ddI) for AIDS. PMID- 2516080 TI - On being a twin: how the view may differ for each of the pair. PMID- 2516081 TI - Comments on "On Being a Twin: How the View May Differ for Each of the Pair," by Lilly Dimitrovsky, M.D. PMID- 2516083 TI - Activity of cefepime, ceftazidime, and ceftizoxime against mutants of Enterobacteriaceae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa derepressed for class I beta lactamase. PMID- 2516082 TI - Cispentacin, a new antifungal antibiotic. I. Production, isolation, physico chemical properties and structure. AB - A new antibiotic, cispentacin, was isolated from the culture broth of a Bacillus cereus strain, L450-B2. The antibiotic is water-soluble and amphoteric; its structure was determined by spectroscopic analysis and chemical synthesis to be (1R,2S)-2-aminocyclopentane-1-carboxylic acid. Cispentacin demonstrated only weak in vitro activity against certain fungi but strong protection of mice from lethal infection of Candida albicans A9540. PMID- 2516084 TI - Conjugal transfer of gonococcal beta-lactamase and conjugative plasmids to Neisseria meningitidis. AB - The filter mating of a gonococcal isolate, carrying the 3.2 Md beta-lactamase and 24.5 Md conjugative plasmids with a plasmid-free strain of Neisseria meningitidis, resulted in the transfer of both plasmids to the meningococcus. Transconjugants were able to maintain both plasmids and transfer the 3.2 Md plasmid to another meningococcal strain in a subsequent filter mating. PMID- 2516085 TI - Subinhibitory antibiotics reduce Pseudomonas aeruginosa tissue injury in the rat lung model. AB - Using the agar-bead rat lung model, we evaluated the effects of subinhibitory antibiotic treatment upon Pseudomonas aeruginosa exoenzyme expression and lung injury in vivo. One hundred and twenty-eight animals were separated into two groups of 64 animals. One group was inoculated with P. aeruginosa DG1, and the other with P. aeruginosa 3740. Each of these two groups was divided into four subgroups of 16 animals on the basis of ten-day antibiotic treatment with ciprofloxacin, tobramycin and ceftazidime or untreated controls. P. aeruginosa DG1 is non-mucoid and expresses significant yields of exoenzyme S and elastase. P. aeruginosa 3740 is a mucoid organism isolated from the sputum of a cystic fibrosis patient, and demonstrates modest elastase activity only (10% of DG1 levels). Lung bacterial counts were similar in treatment and control groups. Lungs from antibiotic-treated rats demonstrated fewer histological changes than those from untreated animals (P less than 0.001). DG1 lung isolates from antibiotic-treated animals yielded less elastase and exoenzyme S compared with isolates from untreated animals (P less than 0.001). No detectable decrease in elastase or mucoid phenotype was observed in 3740 lung isolates from antibiotic treated animals. Thus, antibiotic protection against lung injury by P. aeruginosa may involve modulation of virulence factors. PMID- 2516086 TI - Oral ciprofloxacin therapy for infections in cancer patients. AB - Forty six episodes of infection in 43 cancer patients were treated with oral ciprofloxacin at a dose of 750 mg every 8 h. The overall clinical response was 85%. Patients with microbiologically proven infections had a higher response rate (90%) than patients with infections from whom no causative organism(s) could be isolated (69%). Two of three neutropenic patients responded favourably. Favourable responses were seen in a variety of infections including bacteraemia, urinary tract infection, respiratory tract infection and skin and soft-tissue infection. Resistance to ciprofloxacin developed in one isolate of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Side effects were mild and were predominantly gastrointestinal in nature. Orally administered ciprofloxacin is safe and effective for the therapy of many serious infections in cancer patients. However, more data are required in patients who are neutropenic. PMID- 2516087 TI - Soluble antigen fluorescent antibody test in the serodiagnosis of tuberculous meningitis. AB - Diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is difficult and frustrating. Modified soluble antigen fluorescent antibody (SAFA) test was applied to 40 CSF and 32 serum samples from 48 patients to assess the efficacy of this test in the rapid diagnosis of TBM. Using this test, false negative results were obtained in 41.6% and 40% of CSF and serum samples. False positive results were obtained in 22.2% and 26.7% of CSF and serum samples respectively. SAFA test was not found to be helpful in the sero-diagnosis of TBM. It is suggested that the best immunodiagnostic test for TBM will be to demonstrate the presence of antigen, antibody and antigen-antibody complex in the CSF for M. tuberculosis. PMID- 2516089 TI - Basolateral secretion of kappa light chain in the polarised epithelial cell line, Caco-2. AB - The immunoglobulin kappa light chain is constitutively secreted in non-polarised cells. It is therefore unlikely to display any of the signals thought to be required for the selective delivery of proteins to the apical or basolateral borders of polarised epithelial cells. We have transfected the gene for the kappa light chain into a polarised epithelial cell line (Caco-2) and shown that it is secreted predominantly from the basolateral surface. Metabolically labelled endogenous secretory products show the same polarity and we conclude, therefore, that in Caco-2 cells there is a major intracellular trafficking route to the basolateral border that requires no sorting signal. PMID- 2516088 TI - Schistosomiasis of the urinary tract. PMID- 2516090 TI - Functional and metabolic changes during feeding in gastrointestinal cancer. AB - The impact of feeding a hypercaloric parenteral solution on N balance, energy metabolism, and muscle strength has been investigated in cachectic patients with gastrointestinal cancer and in malnourished patients without evidence of cancer (controls). Patients were examined during 5% dextrose administration (D5W) for 2 days, followed by an infusion of a carbohydrate-based (53% carbohydrate, CB) or fat-based (55% fat, FB) diet with a constant protein intake. Diets were administered for 1 week each, in a randomized crossover design. During D5W, cancerous patients demonstrated a similar energy expenditure, but significantly lower N balance (p less than 0.005) than controls. Compared to control patients, N balance in cancerous patients was similar on the CB diet and significantly lower during the FB diet (p less than 0.025). Unlike the control patients, muscle strength and endurance tests did not improve after 2 weeks of feeding in cancerous patients. The cancerous patients differ from controls because they are hypercatabolic (especially during D5W administration), and they showed no improvement in muscle strength with 2 weeks of feeding. PMID- 2516091 TI - Glutamine and smooth muscle morphology of the gut in rats on total parenteral nutrition. AB - The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of addition of L-glutamine to an IV nutritional solution on the urinary excretion of 3-methylhistidine (3-MeH) and the morphology of the musculature of the gut in rats. Two experiments were run. In experiment 1 glutamine was added to a mildly hypocaloric IV solution which contained no other amino acids. For experiment 2 glutamine was added to an isocaloric balanced amino acid mixture. In both experiments L-alanine was added in equimolar amounts in place of the L-glutamine for the control groups. Providing glutamine in an IV diet without other amino acids significantly decreased urinary 3-MeH excretion (p less than 0.05). Electron microscopy and morphometric analysis of the jejunum showed an approximate 50% loss of musculature from the gut wall in alanine-treated animals. Glutamine supplementation of a balanced amino acid regime had no effect on urinary 3-MeH excretion or the musculature of the jejunum. We concluded that (1) glutamine is a preferred fuel for jejunal smooth muscle as well as for mucosal cells of the jejunum and (2) only when amino acids are limiting does exogenous glutamine prevent atrophy of the gut musculature. PMID- 2516093 TI - Relationship of thiamin deficiency with protein-caloric malnutrition. PMID- 2516092 TI - Effects of a low calorie, low protein diet on nutritional parameters, and routine laboratory values in nonobese young and elderly subjects. AB - The effect of a low calorie (1100 kcal), low protein (35 g) intake for 9 days on nutritional and laboratory parameters was studied in six young and six elderly healthy subjects. All subjects lost weight on the test diet (an average of 2.0 kg in the young and 2.1 kg in the elderly). Basal serum albumin, serum transferrin, creatinine height index, and creatinine clearance in the elderly subjects were lower than in the young (p less than 0.05). Serum albumin remained unchanged at the end of diet in both groups. There was, however, a significant decrease in the transferrin level in the younger subjects (p less than 0.01). The decrease in creatinine height index was not significant in either group. Baseline nitrogen balance of the elderly was -1.1 g/day compared to +0.5 g/day (p less than 0.01) in the young subjects. The test diet caused a negative nitrogen balance of about 5 g/day in both groups (p less than 0.005). Blood urea nitrogen was significantly lower at the end of the test diet and was related to the intake of protein in both groups. At the end of the diet the serum potassium and GGT were significantly lower in the young (p less than 0.01); serum creatinine was unchanged but creatinine clearance was significantly lower in both groups. From this study it appears that significant changes occur in nutritional and laboratory parameters within 9 days on a diet deficient in calories and protein in normal healthy subjects. These changes need to be recognized as having nutritional basis and should not be attributed to illness or drug therapy. PMID- 2516095 TI - Functional modifications of the CD4+ and the CD8+ subset due to maternal serum. AB - Numerous experiments have been performed to try to explain the successful gestation of the semiallogeneic mammalian fetus in the immuno-competent mother. A popular hypothesis is that localized intra uterine suppression mediates the immune response and contributes directly to the survival of the fetus. Suppressive factors synthesized at the fetomaternal interface may be transported by the bloodstream and be found in the retroplacental and peripheral blood circulation. In this report we aim to study these modulating factors by exposing a proteinaceous antigen (Candidine or human mono nuclear cells) to unrelated human lymphocytes in the presence of a pool of maternal serum, retroplacental (MAT SR) or peripheral (MAT SP), or to a pool of male or calf serum (MALS or CS). A significant downregulation of the candidine mediated lymphocytic stimulation was observed in the case of the maternal serum. In order to further characterize this inhibition, a quantitative evaluation of the expression of the CD4 and CD8 positive subpopulations was performed. A selective inhibition of the CD4 positive subset was observed. In the PHA stimulation assay in the presence of maternal serum there was an inhibition of the thymidine uptake of unrelated lymphocytes. When studying the different subsets which were stimulated in the presence of maternal serum and control media it was shown that the CD4 positive subpopulation remained unchanged while there was a slight inhibition of the CD8 positive subset in the first case (maternal serum treated). The same CD4 positive inhibitive property of maternal serum was observed when a neoplastic cell line (HUT cells) was used as target for candidine in a stimulation test. This CD4 inhibited expression remained constant as long as the maternal serum was renewed. Maternal lymphocytes however remained resistant to the inhibitive action of maternal serum and did not show any change in their CD4 and CD8 positive subpopulation. By investigating the different blood components, it was shown that the suppressive factor was included in the IgG fraction and synthesized at the placental level. Appearing quite early during the gestation (at the 5-6th week), this factor was vanishing 2 weeks after the delivery. PMID- 2516094 TI - Contribution of cytokines to time-dependent augmentation of resistance against Listeria monocytogenes after administration of a traditional Chinese medicine, xiao-chai-hu-tang (Japanese name: shosaiko-to). AB - The augmentation of resistance against Listeria monocytogenes after an intraperitoneal (ip) administration of shosaiko-to in mice was shown to depend on the time interval between the treatment and the infection. A maximal effect was expressed in mice treated 4 days before ip infection. The time dependent resistance correlated to the accumulation of macrophages in the peritoneal cavity just before the infection, but not to bactericidal activity as judged by the fact that peritoneal macrophages from untreated mice and those from mice treated with shosaiko-to 4 days before showed a high bactericidal activity of the same degree. Resistance to the infection in untreated mice may be attributable to newly accumulating macrophages with a low level of bactericidal activity, but not to resident macrophages with a high level of the activity. After intravenous infection, on the other hand, a maximal effect was expressed in mice treated with shosaiko-to 2 days before. The resistance correlated to accumulation of macrophages and bactericidal activity in the spleen just before the infection. Participation of cytokines in an augmenting effect of shosaiko-to on protection against the infection was examined. Shosaiko-to induced a transient elevation of serum CSF activity that was maximal at 3 hours after the administration in uninfected mice, though it did not augment the CSF activity induced by the infection. The elevation of CSF activity may induce accumulation of macrophages with a high level of bactericidal activity in the spleen 2 days after administration of shosaiko-to and then in the peritoneal cavity 4 days after administration. IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha did not participate in the effect because administration of anti-IFN-gamma or anti-TNF-alpha just before administration of shosaiko-to or just before infection did not abrogate the inhibitory effect of shosaiko-to on the bacterial growth in the early stage of infection. Shosaiko-to also induced an increase of CFUm number in the spleen. The effect may contribute to the augmentation of resistance in the late stage of infection by differentiating to mature macrophages. PMID- 2516096 TI - Role of nitroglycerin ointment in preventing the pressure response during caesarean section in pre-eclampsia. PMID- 2516097 TI - Hormone profile in leprosy. AB - Hormone profile were carried out in 35 male cases of leprosy. They were divided into tuberculoid leprosy, borderline leprosy, lepromatous leprosy and lepra reaction. Serum testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone, Luteinizing hormone, and Oestradiol level were measured in these cases of leprosy. It was observed that serum testosterone were significantly low in lepromatous leprosy (P less than 0.001) and lepra reaction (P less than 0.01). The serum levels of follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone were significantly high in lepromatous leprosy (P less than 0.02) and lepra reaction (P less than 0.05). Serum Oestradiol was raised in approx. 60% cases in borderline leprosy, lepromatous leprosy and lepra reaction. PMID- 2516098 TI - Intracondylar tooth. PMID- 2516099 TI - Comparisons in the treatment of facial trauma. AB - In 1980 a survey was conducted of the methods employed by OMF surgeons in the United Kingdom on the treatment of facial injuries. In 1986 a similar questionnaire was circulated in the UK with the addition of questions about clinical management. Towards the end of 1986 at a meeting in Amsterdam, arrangements were made for similar questionnaires to be circulated in The Netherlands, the USA and later in India and Hong Kong. The results recorded were as follows: UK: 164; The Netherlands: 94; USA: 1999; India: 20; Hong Kong: 5. This survey has revealed differences in the treatment of maxillofacial injuries in the countries concerned. There were differences in the means of fixation of fractured mandibles and in the types of anaesthesia used. The Americans were more likely to use extra oral surgical approaches for their lower border wirings or platings and were liable to operate on fractured mandibular condyles. The acceptability of patients being sent from the operating room with jaws wired together is confirmed by the fact that 95% of British and American OMF surgeons do this. The British OMF surgeons are much more likely to use fixation other than IMF in middle third injuries and are likely to use extra oral cranial fixation. Both the Dutch and the Americans are not so concerned about maxillary mobility and when they do employ fixation almost always use internal skeletal fixation. The approach to the reduction of a fractured malar is markedly different. The British are mainly using the Gillies approach, whereas the Dutch use the facial hook and the Americans a lower lid or brow approach.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2516100 TI - Syndromology: an updated conceptual overview. V. Aspects of aneuploidy. AB - Various aspects of aneuploidy are discussed including growth disturbance, developmental buffering and variable expression, generalized features of aneuploidy, and microdeletion syndromes. PMID- 2516101 TI - Syndromology: an updated conceptual overview. VI. Molecular and biochemical aspects of dysmorphology. AB - The role of chance using a stochastic single gene model has been shown to generate a continuous liability curve resembling that obtained from a multifactorial threshold model. Segregation of some malformations may be explained by a single defective gene that predisposes to, but does not necessarily result in, the malformation. Low penetrance and remarkably variable expressivity that characterize a number of presumed autosomal dominant malformation syndromes are possibly reflections of specific stochastic influences that are intrinsic to the embryonic process itself. Gene analysis is discussed and illustrated. Using polymorphic DNA probes to study cleft palate and ankyloglossia in males and ankyloglossia only in females in a large Icelandic family, the responsible gene was found to be located on the long arm of the X chromosome in the Xq21.1 region. In addition to gene analysis, some of the implications of transgenic analysis using mice are discussed. Among disorders of collagen metabolism, both the osteogenesis imperfectas and the Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are shown to represent genetically heterogeneous groups of connective tissue disorders. The days of thinking about osteogenesis imperfecta as one disorder and the Ehlers-Danlos syndrome as another are a thing of the past; persistence of such thinking is erroneous and misleading. Of the many disorders affecting bone mineral, the complexities of hypophosphatasia and pseudohypoparathyroidism are singled out for discussion. For lysosomal storage disorders, an overview of the mucopolysaccharidoses is provided. Finally, the recently delineated peroxisomal disorders--hyperpipecolic acidemia, rhizomelic chondrodysplasia, neonatal adrenoleukodystrophy, Zellweger syndrome, and infantile Refsum disease--are known to share a distinctive biochemical phenotype, although fibroblast complementation analysis suggests that some of these disorders are etiologically distinct. PMID- 2516102 TI - Temporomandibular joint arthroscopy: the endaural approach. AB - The endaural approach to the temporomandibular joint overcomes some of the drawbacks associated with the commonly used superior posterolateral and anterolateral approaches. The technique allows improved visualization and access to instrumentation, especially to lateral and medial joint troughs, and the anterolateral region of the superior joint space. This has allowed for observations of the lateral impingement phenomenon occurring in the lateral superior joint space. Triangulation, and therefore the type of surgery performed have been greatly facilitated by the approach. PMID- 2516103 TI - Subsequent treatment of chronic recurrent dislocation of the mandible after eminectomies. AB - A patient with recurrent bilateral dislocation of the mandible of 10 years duration had been treated by bilateral eminectomies. Recurrent dislocation, however, persisted and a LeClerc procedure, using rigid bone plating, was performed as a salvage operation. PMID- 2516106 TI - A comparative experimental investigation in monkeys between three different implant materials. AB - To study the tissue integration of 2 new potential biomaterials (whisker silicon carbide, reinforced aluminum oxide, and zirconium oxide strengthened aluminium oxide) a comparative investigation between these ceramic materials and unalloyed titanium was performed on monkeys. Cylindrical implants (4 x 6 mm) were inserted in the femur of 10 adult monkeys. After observation periods ranging from 1 to 8 months the animals were killed and clinical and histological evaluations (microradiography and light-microscopy) were carried out. After 6-8 months, the implants were covered with bone and firmly attached, indicating an uneventful healing. Histologically, a close connection between bone and implant was observed. At some areas the implants were totally osseointegrated and at some areas there were soft tissue layers between implant and bone. No differences in bone repair with regard to the different materials could be observed. PMID- 2516105 TI - Bio-absorbable plates and screws for internal fixation of mandibular fractures. A study in six dogs. AB - Bio-absorbable plates and screws were used for internal fixation of artificially created mandibular fractures in 6 dogs. The plates and screws were fabricated from a block of poly(L-lactide) (PLLA), with a high molecular weight. The material is microporous and has excellent mechanical properties. Plates and screws were inserted in accordance with Champy's principles on internal fixation. Clinical and radiographical follow-up and examination of the fracture site under general anesthesia showed that all fractures healed without callus and without complications. The plates or screws did not fail, despite the tensile strength of the PLLA used is less than stainless steel or any other metal. An explanation for their successful application may be the high impact resilience of this material. The proprioceptive mechanisms, however, that keep the dogs from maximal loading of their broken mandibles, may also play a role. Plates and screws of this bio absorbable PLLA appear to be an attractive alternative for internal fixation of mandibular fractures and certainly for less loaded fractures of the human skeleton. The necessity to remove metallic osteosynthesis can be avoided. PMID- 2516107 TI - [Respiratory tract infections due to Mycoplasma pneumoniae in elementary school children; a case report]. AB - Epidemic respiratory tract infections occurred among elementary school children in Hiroshima prefecture during June, July and August, 1987. Forty (59%) of 68 children who were enrolled in an elementary school were confirmed to have respiratory diseases during this period, ten of whom were hospitalized with diagnoses of pneumonias. Diagnoses of M. pneumoniae infection were made from secretions obtained by throat swabs, and by serological studies of blood specimens. Twenty-four (77%) of the 31 patients examined were confirmed to have M. pneumoniae infections. Twenty-three of them had upper respiratory tract infections with cough and fever; two had pneumonia, one with myringitis. PPLO broth, SP-4 broth and diphasic medium were used for M. pneumoniae isolation. Among these, SP-4 broth proved to have the highest isolation rate. PMID- 2516104 TI - Computed tomography versus single-contrast arthrotomography in evaluation of the temporomandibular joint disc. A study of autopsy specimens. AB - The lateral, central and medial parts of 15 right temporomandibular joint autopsy specimens were studied to compare the ability of computed tomography (CT) and single-contrast arthrotomography in diagnosing the disc position and configuration. The radiologic findings were compared with macroscopic findings in a blinded fashion. In the CT examination, the diagnostic accuracy was 40% in determining the disc position and 26.7% in determining the disc configuration. However, in many areas of the joints the disc was not possible to evaluate by CT. With arthrotomography the diagnostic accuracy in determining the disc position was 75.6% and the disc configuration 60%. The sensitivity of CT was 0.45 and of arthrotomography 0.95 for the diagnosis of the disc position. The specificity was 0.87 for CT and 0.76 for arthrotomography. From these results, we conclude that arthrotomography is a reliable aid to diagnosis of TMJ disc changes and that CT cannot replace it. PMID- 2516108 TI - [Mammalian lipoxygenases]. PMID- 2516109 TI - [Molecular structure and function of NADPH-cytochrome P-450 reductase of hepatic microsomes]. PMID- 2516110 TI - Defective biliary secretion of bile acid 3-O-glucuronides in rats with hereditary conjugated hyperbilirubinemia. AB - Biliary secretion of bile acid glucuronides was studied in control rats and in rats with a congenital defect in hepatobiliary transport of organic anions (GY rats). In control animals, hepatobiliary transport of [3H]lithocholic acid 3-O glucuronide and [3H]cholic acid 3-O-glucuronide was efficient (greater than 95% in 1 h) and comparable to that of [14C]taurocholic acid. Secretion of both glucuronides was impaired in GY rats (24% and 71% at 1 h), whereas that of taurocholate was similar to control values. However, recovery of the glucuronides in bile was nearly complete within 24 h; virtually no radioactivity was found in urine. In control rats, biliary secretion of lithocholic acid 3-O-glucuronide, but not that of cholic acid 3-O-glucuronide or taurocholate, could be delayed by simultaneous infusion of dibromosulphthalein. In mutant rats, dibromosulphthalein infusion was also able to inhibit secretion of cholic acid 3-O-glucuronide. [3H]Hydroxyetianic acid, a C20 short-chain bile acid, was secreted by control rats as a mixture of 20% carboxyl-linked and 80% hydroxyl-linked (3-O )glucuronide; secretion was very efficient (99% in 1 h). In GY rats, secretion was drastically impaired (16% at 1 h and 74% over a 24-h period). Initially, the mutant secreted more carboxyl- than hydroxyl-linked glucuronide, but the ratio reached that of control animals after 24 h. The rates of formation of both types of hydroxyetianic acid glucuronide by hepatic microsomes from mutant rats were similar or even slightly higher than those of control microsomes. These findings indicate that bile acid 3-O-glucuronides, but probably not carboxyl-linked glucuronides, are secreted into bile by a transport system shared with organic anions such as conjugated bilirubin and dibromosulphthalein, but different from that for amino acid-conjugated bile acids. PMID- 2516111 TI - Nonimmunochemical quantitation of mammalian apolipoprotein A-I in whole serum or plasma by nonreducing gel electrophoresis. AB - A rapid and convenient method for the quantitation of mammalian apoA-I has been developed. The method involves nonreducing sodium dodecyl sulfate gel electrophoresis and Coomassie blue staining, and takes advantage of the relative abundance of apoA-I in whole serum or plasma. ApoA-I was sufficiently resolved to allow quantitation by laser densitometry or spectrophotometry. The assay was linear from 0.25 to 4.0 micrograms of apoA-I. Analytic recovery was 98%. Within assay variability was 3.1% and between-assay variability was 7.5%. A high degree of positive correlative (r = 0.98) was observed with a human apoA-I radioimmunoassay. For several species investigated, the apoA-I values obtained correlated strongly and positively with high density lipoprotein cholesterol values. When applied to a study of nutritional perturbation in the Mongolian gerbil, the method detected sensible and significant changes in serum apoA-I that paralleled changes in HDL cholesterol. PMID- 2516112 TI - Diagnostic value of adenosine deaminase and gamma-interferon in tuberculous and malignant pleural effusions. AB - It has been found that both adenosine deaminase (ADA) and gamma-interferon (r IFN) are higher in tuberculous pleural effusions than in other types of pleural effusion. Both mechanisms may be related to the T-lymphocytes in effusions. We studied 39 pleural effusions: 19 tuberculous and 20 malignant [The ADA was determined according to the Giusti method and r-IFN by ELISA]. We compared the ADA and r-IFN levels in both groups of effusions and tried to determine if there was any correlation between them. The results showed: (1) The ADA enzyme level was significantly higher in tuberculous effusions than in malignant effusions as was expected (133.0 +/- 50.4 vs 32.0 +/- 17.7 U/L). (2) The r-IFN was also significantly higher in tuberculous effusions than in malignant effusions (30.4 +/- 17.4 vs 2.9 +/- 2.8 U/ml). (3) The coefficients of regression for the ADA and r-IFN levels were poor. In conclusion, both tests for measuring ADA and r-IFN levels are excellent methods for differentiating tuberculous and malignant effusions, and especially measurement of the r-IFN level could serve as a more specific test for differentiating malignant pleural effusions with high ADA levels. However, no strong correlation was found between the ADA and r-IFN levels. PMID- 2516113 TI - Production of thiol-dependent haemolysins by Listeria monocytogenes and related species. AB - Twenty-six strains belonging to the five main species of the genus Listeria were examined for production of thiol-dependent exotoxins. All strains of L. monocytogenes cultured in charcoal-treated broth secreted a haemolytic factor at a level ranging from 200 to 800 haemolytic units (HU) ml-1, except for the strain EGD (1500 HU ml-1) and the type strain CIP 82110T (10 HU ml-1). The haemolytic activity reached a maximum level by 8-10 h and then rapidly declined as soon as bacterial exponential growth ceased. The titres of haemolytic activity were markedly reduced when bacteria were grown in charcoal-untreated broth. The haemolytic factor produced by L. monocytogenes strains was characterized as listeriolysin O (Mr about 60,000), a member of the group of thiol-dependent exotoxins. Strains of Listeria ivanovii also produced high levels of thiol dependent exotoxin (about 2500 HU ml-1), in both charcoal-treated and untreated broth. Small amounts of haemolytic factor (about 9-30 HU ml-1) were also produced by Listeria seeligeri in charcoal-treated broth. The haemolysin produced by L. seeligeri was identified for the first time as a thiol-dependent exotoxin of Mr about 60,000, antigenically related to listeriolysin O. As expected, we failed to detect thiol-dependent exotoxin in the two nonhaemolytic species, Listeria innocua and Listeria welshimeri. PMID- 2516114 TI - Demonstration of membrane association and surface location of Mycoplasma pneumoniae antigens using monoclonal antibodies. AB - We examined 10 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) directed against Mycoplasma pneumoniae proteins of 200, 170, 67, 46 and 42 kDa, and one mAb directed against a glycolipid component. The membrane association of the antigens reacting with our mAbs was investigated, in particular by phase-fractionation involving use of the detergent Triton X-114. The 170 kDa protein was shown to be membrane associated, and surface exposure of this antigen was demonstrated by its disappearance from SDS-PAGE patterns after treatment of intact mycoplasmas with proteolytic enzymes. Cross-reactions with protein antigens of Mycoplasma genitalium were also shown. A mAb directed against a component of a lipid extract, prepared by the method used for preparation of the antigen used in the complement fixation (CF) test for serological diagnosis of M. pneumoniae infection, reacted with one major and a few minor bands in thin-layer chromatography (TLC) of the crude extract. The glycolipid character of this major antigen was demonstrated by treatment of the extract with sodium periodate, and by development of the TLC with orcinol/ferric chloride. These reactive bands were the same as those detected by the use of polyclonal mouse antiserum and a human convalescent serum, a result showing that the CF antigen contains a glycolipid moiety reacting with our mAb. The surface exposure of this antigen was demonstrated by binding of mAbs to intact cells. PMID- 2516115 TI - Cell wall composition and surface properties in Bacillus subtilis: anomalous effect of incubation temperature on the phage-binding properties of bacteria containing varied amounts of teichoic acid. AB - Adsorption of bacteriophage SP50 to walls and heat-killed cells of Bacillus subtilis 168 appeared to be irreversible at both 37 and 0 degree C. Few, if any, active phage were desorbed when phage-wall complexes, formed at either temperature, were suspended in fresh medium. Bacteria rich in wall teichoic acid (TA) bound phage rapidly at both 0 and 37 degrees C, binding at the higher temperature being approximately twice as fast. Bacteria containing diminished proportions of TA showed less rapid phage adsorption but the reduction in rate was greater at 37 than at 0 degree C and bacteria containing only small proportions of TA bound phage more rapidly at 0 degree C than they did at 37 degrees C. These findings show that at low phage receptor density the temperature affects some component(s) involved in the phage-bacterium interaction such that the collision efficiency is increased at the lower temperature. The possible effect of temperature on the organization of bacterial surface components is discussed. PMID- 2516116 TI - Genetic basis of the association of sulphonamide resistance with methionine auxotrophy in Neisseria gonorrhoeae. AB - Selection by sulphonamides was investigated in Neisseria gonorrhoeae because a sulphonamide-resistant (Sulr), methionine-requiring (Met-) phenotype that was common in the era of sulphonamide therapy became rare in the penicillin era. Cultures of wild-type (SulsMet+) gonococci on a conventional medium containing sulphadiazine (2-10 micrograms ml-1) yielded numerous, nonidentical mutations of two met genes. The requirement of MetI- mutants was satisfied only by methionine, whereas MetII- mutants utilized either homocysteine or methionine. My theory that increased resistance to sulphonamides is a pleiotropic effect of methionine auxotrophy was confirmed by the return of sulphonamide susceptibility in all Met+ spontaneous mutants. Furthermore, the SulrMet- traits were introduced or eliminated together by DNA-mediated transformation. Sulphonamides are known to inhibit dihydropteroate synthase; consequently, they interrupt the entire sequence of reactions in the folate pathway including the methyl group transfer from N5-methyltetrahydrofolate to homocysteine to form methionine. The increased sulphonamide resistance of these Met- mutants is discussed in terms of conservation of the pool of essential tetrahydrofolate derivatives. The ease with which spontaneous forward and reverse met mutations can be obtained is unique among gonococcal genes. PMID- 2516117 TI - The penetration of antibiotics into aggregates of mucoid and non-mucoid Pseudomonas aeruginosa. AB - Cells of mucoid and non-mucoid Pseudomonas aeruginosa in colonies were at least one-thousandfold less sensitive to the antibiotics tobramycin or cefsulodin than were cells of the same bacteria in dispersed suspension. We did not detect any difference between the mucoid form and the non-mucoid form in the antibiotic sensitivity of colonies, from which we infer that the exopolysaccharide of the mucoid form does not contribute to colony-resistance by forming a barrier to antibiotic diffusion. Mathematical models were constructed in order to estimate time-courses of penetration of tobramycin and cefsulodin into biofilms and microcolonies of mucoid and non-mucoid P. aeruginosa. For tobramycin penetration, adsorption of antibiotic to the exopolysaccharide of the glycocalyx and antibiotic uptake by cells were taken into account in the calculations. The longest time-period for the concentration of tobramycin at the base of a biofilm 100 micron deep to rise to 90% of the concentration outside the biofilm was predicted to be 2.4 h. For cefsulodin penetration, irreversible hydrolysis catalysed by beta-lactamase was taken into account, using beta-lactamase levels taken from the literature. The calculations predicted that the cefsulodin concentration at the base of a biofilm 100 micron deep would rise to 90% of the external concentration in 29 s when the beta-lactamase was synthesized at the basal level. For a similar biofilm of bacteria synthesizing enhanced levels of beta-lactamase ('derepressed'), the concentration of cefsulodin at the base was calculated to rise to 41% of the external concentration in about 50 s and then remain at that level. This was despite the fact that cefsulodin is a poor substrate for this beta-lactamase. PMID- 2516118 TI - Dissection of the expression signals of the spoA gene of Bacillus subtilis: glucose represses sporulation-specific expression. AB - The expression of the spo0A-lacZ fusion gene was partially repressed in the presence of an excess of glucose. Expression was restored either by the mutation sigA47(crsA47) or by addition of decoyinine, an inhibitor of GMP synthetase, to the medium. By constructing a lacZ fusion with a smaller fragment of the spo)A gene, we observed a beta-galactosidase profile in which expression was completely repressed by an excess of glucose. This expression was restored by the addition of decoyinine. These results indicate that the expression of the spo0A gene is regulated by at least two different mechanisms, one sensitive to glucose, the other not. Furthermore, the glucose-sensitive regulation was shown to reside at the transcriptional level. It is likely that the reduced expression of the spo0A gene in the presence of glucose at an early stage of sporulation causes the repression of sporulation. PMID- 2516119 TI - The prevention of heterotopic bone formation following total hip arthroplasty using 600 rad in a single dose. AB - While postoperative irradiation has been shown to lower the incidence of heterotopic ossification effectively in high-risk patients following total hip arthroplasty, patients in multiple-dose protocols continue to develop some heterotopic ossification despite therapy. Sixteen patients (17 hips) received single-dose exposure to 600 rad delivered within 3 days of total hip arthroplasty. The patients were considered at high risk for development of heterotopic ossification because of hypertrophic osteoarthritis, posttraumatic arthritis, or the presence of previously formed ectopic bone. Thirty-five percent of the patients underwent excision of preexisting ectopic bone at the time of arthroplasty. The average follow-up period was 11.8 months (range, 6-24 months). At follow-up study, all hips were classified as Brooker class O or I, compared to a 17% incidence of Brooker class II and III for previously reported multiple-dose protocols. All patients were asymptomatic at last follow-up study, and no component demonstrated subsidence or radiolucent lines indicative of loosening. The authors conclude that low-dose, single-fraction radiotherapy is more cost effective and convenient and as efficacious as current multiple-dose regimens. PMID- 2516121 TI - [Immunohistological study on immunocompetent cells in palatine tonsil and pharyngeal tonsil--the quantitative study by image analyzer]. AB - Distribution of various immunocompetent cells, i.e., IgG-, IgM-, IgA-, IgD-, IgE , CD4-, and CD8-positive cells in palatine tonsils (tonsils) and pharyngeal tonsils (adenoids) of same patients were investigated immunohistologically by using monoclonal antibodies. The proportion of Ig-positive cells and T cell subsets in both tonsils were quantitatively studied by the image analyzer (CUE-2, Olympus, USA). The results were summarized as follows: 1) There was no significant difference in proportions of Ig-positive cells and T cell subsets between tonsils and adenoids. 2) IgG- and IgD-positive cells in the tonsils were significantly increased in cases with recurrent tonsillitis than in those with simple tonsillar hypertrophy. 3) Number of IgA2-positive cells were significantly changed, i.e., decreased in the subepithelial area of tonsils and increased in the interfollicular area of adenoids in cases complicated with otitis media with effusion. 4) In cases complicated with nasal allergy, IgE-positive cells were significantly increased in the interfollicular area in both of those tonsils and adenoids. These results indicate that the image analyzer will be a breakthrough in quantitative study on the immunohistology of tonsils and adenoids and give us useful informations about roles of the tonsil and the adenoid on the local immunity of the upper respiratory airway. PMID- 2516120 TI - Utilization of dietary precursors for carnitine synthesis in human adults. AB - Endogenous synthetic pathways are presumed to be sufficient to provide adequate amounts of carnitine to meet the needs of the body. However, circulating carnitine levels of strict vegetarian adults and children, and particularly of infants fed carnitine-free formulas, are significantly lower than normal. Therefore, we investigated loci at which rates of carnitine synthesis may be restricted in human adults. Excess amounts of the carnitine precursors lysine plus methionine, epsilon-N-trimethyllysine or gamma-butyrobetaine were fed as supplements to a low carnitine diet for 10 d. Rate of carnitine synthesis was estimated by changes in carnitine excretion and changes in serum and muscle carnitine levels. Dietary gamma-butyrobetaine dramatically increased carnitine production, epsilon-N-trimethyllysine had a somewhat smaller effect, and lysine plus methionine had even less effect on carnitine synthesis. We conclude that carnitine synthesis is not limited by the activity of gamma-butyrobetaine hydroxylase. Carnitine synthesis from exogenous epsilon-N-trimethyllysine is limited either by enzymatic processes that lead to the final intermediate, gamma butyrobetaine, or by the ability of this substrate to enter tissues capable of carrying out these transformations. PMID- 2516123 TI - Apolipoproteins A-I and B in obese children. AB - Body mass index (BMI), the distribution of fat, birth weight, physical fitness, apolipoproteins (apo) A-I and B, total cholesterol (TC), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLC) were studied in 38 obese 10- to 11-year-olds in comparison to 52 age-matched controls. Obese children had higher concentration of apo B and a lower apo A-I:B ratio. Significant correlations were found between (a) apo A-I and physical fitness (r = 0.35, p less than 0.015), triceps skinfold thickness (r = 0.44, p less than 0.01), and birth weight (r = -0.33, p less than 0.05); (b) physical fitness and triceps skinfold thickness (r = 0.38, p less than 0.05), and (c) the apo A-I:B ratio and triceps skinfold thickness (r = 0.31, p less than 0.05). When both obese and control children were grouped together, a correlation was found between BMI and TC (r = 0.24, p less than 0.05), apo B (r = 0.37, p less than 0.001), and the apo A-I:B ratio (r = -0.31, p less than 0.01). Multiple regression analyses indicated a significant positive contribution to the apo A-I level by HDLC and physical fitness and a negative one by birth weight. PMID- 2516124 TI - Synergistic antifungal action of 8-quinolinol and its bischelate with copper(II) and with mixed ligand chelates composed of copper(II), 8-quinolinol, and aromatic hydroxy acids. AB - Antifungal studies were made of mixtures of minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 8-quinolinol and its bischelates with copper(II), zinc(II), and manganese(II) and with mixed ligand chelates composed of 8-quinolinol, copper(II) and a second ligand including salicylic acid, 3-hydroxy-2-naphthoic acid, 3,5 diiodosalicylic acid, and 4-bromo-3-hydroxy-2-naphthoic acid. Mixtures of the MICs of the bischelates of 8-quinolinol with copper(II) and zinc(II) and copper(II) and manganese(II), as well as 7-iodo-8-quinolinol and its bischelate with copper(II), and 8-quinolinol and 5-iodo-8-quinolinol were also studied against six fungi: Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus oryzae, Trichoderma viride, Myrothecium verrucaria, Mucor cirinelloides, and Trichophyton mentagrophytes. With the exceptions of the mixtures of 8-quinolinol and (8-quinolinolato)(3,5 diiodosalicylato)copper(II) and (8-quinolinolato)(4-bromo-3-hydroxy-2 naphthoato)copper(II) against M. cirinelloides, all of the test organisms were inhibited by 40% or less of each mixture containing 8-quinolinol. Bischelates of 8-quinolinol with copper(II) and zinc(II) and copper(II) and manganese(II) inhibited five fungi at 50% of the mixtures of the MICs. Mucor cirinelloides was not inhibited by bis(8-quinolinolato)copper(II), bis(8-quinolinolato)zinc(II), or by bis(7-iodo-8-quinolinolato)copper(II).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2516122 TI - Value of a chicken-based formula for refeeding of children with protracted diarrhea and malnutrition in a developing country. AB - Two hospital-made, lactose-free, hypoosmolar formulas were compared for therapy for 61 children aged 10-28 months who had severe malnutrition and protracted diarrhea. The formulas were isocaloric and contained dextrin-maltose, carrots, sunflower oil, minerals, and vitamins. One had chicken meat as the protein source and the other had hydrolyzed lactalbumin (LAD). Initially the formulas were given as a continuous enteral feeding by nasogastric tube and pump. Six patients died from metabolic and infectious complications: four failed to equilibrate and changed diet. The remaining 51 were divided into two groups; group A, chicken formula (n = 26), and group B, LAD formula (n = 25). The mean duration of diarrhea was similar in both groups; number of days with liquid stools = 6.0 +/- 4.1 in group A, 5.5 +/- 2.8 in group B; number of days with greater than 4 stools/day = 3.5 +/- 3.4 in group A, 4.1 +/- 2.1 in group B. The time until beginning nutritional recovery was 13.2 +/- 12.0 days in group A and 13.3 +/- 7.8 days in group B. Intercurrent infections were significantly more frequent in patients receiving chicken formula (12 of 30 patients) than in those receiving LAD formula (4 of 27 patients) (p less than 0.05). We conclude that chicken formula is an efficient substitute to expensive semielemental formulas for continuous enteral feeding of protracted diarrhea in severely malnourished children. PMID- 2516128 TI - The steady-state and rebreathing methods compared during morphine administration in humans. AB - 1. We examined the quantitative and qualitative differences between the steady state and rebreathing methods of determining CO2-response curves before and after each of two doses of intravenous morphine (0.07 and 0.14 mg kg-1) in four healthy male humans. 2. During each study session steady-state and rebreathing CO2 response curves were determined as an ordered pair (separated by 15 min). Carbon dioxide-response curves were determined for control, after 0.07 mg kg-1 morphine, and after a total of 0.21 mg kg-1 morphine. Each subject was studied on a second occasion when the order of the CO2-response pairing was reversed. 3. The results are discussed and related to a model that may account for the differences based on the step increase in CO2 at the onset of rebreathing, the rate of rise of CO2 during rebreathing and the time constant for the central chemoreflex. 4. Our empirical conclusion is that morphine causes a parallel right shift of the steady state CO2-response curve and causes a non-specific decrease in the slope of the rebreathing CO2-response curve. We suggest that the parallel shift of the steady state CO2-response curve is specific to drugs acting on opioid receptors. PMID- 2516127 TI - Extracellular pH in the isolated retina of the toad in darkness and during illumination. AB - 1. Extracellular pH (pHo) was measured in the isolated retina preparation of the toad, Bufo marinus, using H(+)-selective microelectrodes. During superfusion with phosphate-buffered solution (pH 7.8), which had a low buffering capacity, pHo in the inner retina was 7.0-7.2 and there was a pHo gradient throughout the distal retina and into the bathing solution. 2. The retinal acidity appears to be due in part to the combined reactions of glycolysis and ATP hydrolysis, since anoxia greatly increased the pHo gradient, while superfusion with either glucose-free pyruvate solution or strophanthidin decreased this gradient. 3. Maintained illumination evoked both an acidification in the proximal retina and an alkalinization in the distal retina. Blocking synaptic transmission to second order neurones (1.0 mM-aspartate) decreased the acidification but had little effect on the alkalinization, consistent with the notion that the alkalinization is of receptoral origin, while the acidification is of post-receptoral origin. 4. Retinal neurones extrude a significant amount of acid via Na(+)-H+ exchange, since 2.0 mM-amiloride, a blocker of Na(+)-H+ exchange, caused a sustained alkalinization in darkness and decreased the light-evoked changes in pHo, while 1.0 mM-4-acetamido-4'-isothiocyanatostilbene-2.2'-disulphonic acid (SITS), a blocker of Cl(-)-HCO3- exchange, produced a much smaller alkalinization. 5. Switching to a bicarbonate-buffered solution having a 75 times greater buffering capacity than the phosphate-buffered solution caused retinal pHo to become less acidic and significantly decreased the amplitude of the light-evoked pHo changes. 6. Addition of 2.0 mM-acetazolamide, a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, to the bicarbonate-buffered solution increased both the pHo gradient and the light evoked changes in pHo. These data are consistent with the idea that carbonic anhydrase, which is concentrated in Muller (glial) cells and to a lesser extent in horizontal cells, increases the effectiveness of the bicarbonate buffer system. 7. Switching from bicarbonate-buffered to phosphate-buffered solutions attenuated the b-wave of the electroretinogram, most likely by acidifying pHo. Overall, our results emphasize the importance of the bicarbonate buffer system in buffering pHo during periods of variable acid extrusion in light and in darkness. PMID- 2516126 TI - Sugar-dependent selective induction of mouse jejunal disaccharidase activities. AB - 1. Sugar-containing diets chosen not to affect intestinal structure or enterocyte turnover have been fed to mice previously maintained on a low carbohydrate diet in order to determine their ability to induce disaccharidase enzymes in the small intestine. 2. Glucose-, fructose- and 3-O-methyl-glucose-containing diets increased sucrase and maltase but not lactase activities in mouse jejunal homogenates. These effects were either absent or negligible in more distal regions of the small intestine. 3. Placing mice on glucose-, fructose- or 3-O methyl-glucose-containing diets was further shown, by quantitative cytochemistry, to cause a 1.6-, 2.6- and 3.2-fold increase in the initial rate at which alpha glucosidase activity (sucrase + maltase) appeared in the brush-border membrane of developing enterocytes. 4. The time during which alpha-glucosidase activity increased in enterocyte brush-border membranes fell from 30 h for low carbohydrate fed mice to 21, 19 and 17 h in mice fed glucose, fructose and 3-O methyl-glucose respectively. Change of diet had no effect on the kinetics of lactase expression by developing enterocytes. 5. Maximal alpha-glucosidase activity detected in enterocyte brush-border membranes is equal to RT, where R is the initial rate of enzyme appearance and T is the time during which this rate operates. The ability of sugars to increase R selectively, but only at the expense of T, defines unexpected limits to the capacity of enterocytes to adapt to changes in luminal nutrition. 6. The above results are discussed in relation to other aspects of enterocyte differentiation recently subjected to quantitative analysis. The need to standardize other aspects of intestinal physiology and redefine the energy content of diets containing non-metabolizable substrates in this type of work is also emphasized. PMID- 2516125 TI - Secretory and radioligand binding studies on muscarinic receptors in bovine and feline chromaffin cells. AB - 1. Muscarinic agonists enhanced catecholamine release from perfused cat adrenal glands with the following relative order of potencies: methacholine greater than oxotremorine greater than McN-A-343 greater than pilocarpine greater than bethanechol greater than muscarine. Because a continuous online electrochemical detection system was used to monitor catecholamine release, this sequence could be obtained at concentrations much lower (1-10 microM) and during much shorter stimulation times (3-30 s) than in previous reports. 2. All muscarinic agonists used secreted adrenaline preferentially over noradrenaline. Methacholine evoked a sustained, non-desensitizing response in the cat adrenal, which declined to basal levels of secretion immediately after Ca2+ removal: upon Ca2+ restoration secretion was restored to the previous plateau. 3. In addition to evoking a direct secretory response, low concentrations of methacholine, pilocarpine, bethanechol or muscarine clearly potentiated cat adrenal secretory responses evoked by pulses of nicotine (2 microM for 30 s) or high K+ (17.7 mM for 30 s). 4. [3H]Quinuclydinyl benzylate (QNB) specifically bound to cat adrenomedullary membranes with a saturating monophasic curve, suggesting a single binding site with a KD of 23 pM and a Bmax of 67 fmol (mg protein)-1. Preferential displacement by atropine over pirenzepine suggests that the binding site is associated to a M2-type muscarinoceptor. 5. Methacholine (3-300 microM) did not enhance the spontaneous catecholamine release from perfused bovine intact adrenal glands or superfused chromaffin cells. Neither did the drug affect secretion evoked by dimethylphenylpiperazinium (10 microM for 3 s) or K+ (35 mM for 3 s) from isolated superfused bovine adrenal chromaffin cells. 6. [3H]QNB bound to purified bovine adrenomedullary plasma membranes with a KD of 29 pM and a Bmax of 89 fmol (mg protein)-1. Displacement by pirenzepine suggests the presence of two binding sites (Hill coefficient = 0.64) with Ki1 of 39 nM and Ki2 of 2734 nM. 7. Because the ionophore A23187 enhanced K(+)-evoked secretion in both, bovine and cat adrenals, it seems that a similar cytosolic Ca2+ rise induced by muscarinic stimulation might constitute the underlying mechanism both to cause a secretory response per se as well as the potentiation of catecholamine release evoked by nicotinic or high K+ stimulation. However, it is unclear why the bovine behaves differently from the feline chromaffin cell as far as the muscarine-evoked effects are concerned.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2516129 TI - [Sternocostoclavicular osteoarthritis]. AB - On observation of a case of infectious osteoarthritis which was remarkable both because of its site, the sternoclavicular joint, and of the germ involved, which was Salmonella paratyphi A is reported. PMID- 2516130 TI - Leydig cell number and function in the adult cynomolgus monkey (Macaca fascicularis) is increased by daily hCG treatment but not by daily FSH treatment. AB - Daily treatment of adult cynomolgus monkeys with 450 i.u. hCG for 16 days resulted in a significant 163% increase in the number of Leydig cells, and a 9 fold rise in plasma testosterone concentrations. The number of proliferating Leydig cells was very low, even after 16 days of treatment with hCG. Daily FSH administration (2 injections of 15 i.u. per day) did not have any effect on the number of Leydig cells or plasma testosterone values. It can be concluded, therefore, that in adult cynomolgus monkeys daily hCG treatment results in an increase in the number of Leydig cells, which is mainly caused by the differentiation of precursor cells. Since plasma testosterone concentrations were increased to an even higher extent, the steroid production per Leydig cell was also stimulated. PMID- 2516131 TI - Effect of PGI-2 on uterine activity in vivo in non-pregnant ovariectomized goats (Capra hircus). AB - Jugular administration of 200 micrograms PGI-2 salt significantly reduced spontaneous uterine activity in ovariectomized, oestrogen-primed goats; the effect was acute and persisted for about 3 h. Peripheral plasma concentrations of 6-keto-PGF-1 alpha, the stable metabolite of PGI-2, decreased to 50% of initial values after 30 min; but at the start of uterine recovery were in excess of 2 ng.ml-1. Uterine reactivity to both oxytocin and PGF-2 alpha after PGI-2 administration was unaffected. PMID- 2516132 TI - Effect of FSH deprivation at specific times on follicular maturation in the bonnet monkey (Macaca radiata). AB - Cyclic monkeys were deprived of FSH for specific periods on different days of the follicular phase by injecting them with minimal doses of an FSH antiserum characterized for specificity and bioneutralizing ability. The effect of the antiserum on follicular maturation was assessed by determining (a) serum oestrogen concentrations through the midcycle period, (b) serum progesterone concentrations as an index of ovulation and luteal function, (c) laparoscopic examination of the surface of the ovary when necessary, and (d) overall cycle length. While antiserum injection on Day 5 of the cycle caused delay in the oestrogen surge from Days 9 to 11, injection on Day 6 led to the occurrence of two oestrogen surges, on Days 9 and 14. Laparoscopic examination showed that the earlier follicle had disappeared and a new follicle had appeared by Day 14. Antiserum injection on Day 7 of the cycle arrested further growth of the maturing follicle, but a new follicle appeared 9 days later, as indicated by a surge of oestrogen on Day 16. Injection of antiserum beyond Day 7 had no effect on follicular development, ovulation and luteal function. These observations suggest that the mature follicle becomes relatively independent of FSH support about 48 h before ovulation and this event could be a marker for follicular dominance. PMID- 2516133 TI - Effects of the putative phospholipid precursors, inositol, choline, serine and ethanolamine, on formation and expansion of rabbit blastocysts in vitro. AB - Rabbit morulae were cultured to blastocysts in various concentrations of the potential phospholipid precursors, myo-inositol, choline, serine and ethanolamine. Serine (20-2500 microM) had a significant stimulatory effect on blastocyst formation and blastocyst expansion and inositol (3-375 microM) had a significant stimulatory effect on blastocyst expansion. There was no significant stimulatory effect of choline or ethanolamine. PMID- 2516135 TI - Stoichiometric measurement of the acrosin content of a guinea-pig spermatozoon. AB - Guinea-pig spermatozoa were induced to undergo an acrosome reaction with the ionophore A23187. A time course for the activation of protease activity was established. Acid treatment of fully activated spermatozoa at pH 2.35 for 30 min exposed additional activity. This was attributed to the acid dissociation of a protein inhibitor from acrosin. The acrosin content of fully activated and acid dissociated sperm extracts was measured using a sensitive active-site titrant for serine proteases. The number of acrosin molecules per spermatozoon, calculated on the basis of the sperm count, was approximately 2 x 10(6), of which half were available without dissociation of the inhibitor. PMID- 2516134 TI - Effects of a gonadotrophin-releasing hormone antagonist on gonadotrophin secretion and gonadal development in neonatal pigs. AB - Male (N = 8) and female (N = 8) pigs were assigned to receive saline or a potent GnRH antagonist ([Ac-D2Nal1,D4-Cl-Phe2,D-Trp3,D-Arg6, D-Ala10]- GnRH*HOAc; 1 mg/kg body weight) at 14 days of age. The GnRH antagonist caused LH to decline (P less than 0.01) from 1.7 ng/ml at 0 h to less than 0.5 ng/ml during 4-32 h in males and females. Concentrations of FSH in gilts declined slowly from 75 +/- 8 to 56 +/- 5 ng/ml (P less than 0.05) at 32 h. In males FSH was low (5.7 +/- 0.5 ng/ml) at 0 h and did not change significantly. To observe the effect of long term treatment with GnRH antagonist, 10 male and 10 female pigs, 3 days of age, were treated with saline or 1 mg GnRH antagonist per kg body weight every 36 h for 21 days. Concentrations of LH were reduced (P less than 0.01) to 0.2-0.4 ng/ml throughout the experimental period in male and female piglets treated with GnRH antagonist. Plasma FSH increased in control females, but remained suppressed (P less than 0.001) in females treated with GnRH antagonist. Treatment with the GnRH antagonist suppressed FSH levels in males on Days 8 and 16 (P less than 0.05), but not on Day 24. Treatment of females with the GnRH antagonist did not influence (P greater than 0.10) oestradiol-17 beta concentrations. Administration of GnRH antagonist to males suppressed testosterone and oestradiol-17 beta values (P less than 0.01) and reduced testicular weight (P less than 0.01).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2516136 TI - Pituitary response to GnRH and ovariectomy in Booroola-Awassi and Awassi ewe lambs. AB - Booroola-Awassi ewe lambs were heterozygous (F+) for a major gene F, influencing their ovulation rate, while Awassi lambs were non-carriers (++). Basal plasma FSH concentration (mean +/- s.e.m.) in Booroola-Awassi ewe lambs at 4 weeks of age was significantly higher than in Awassi lambs of the same age (5.06 +/- 0.60 and 2.04 +/- 0.32 ng/ml respectively; P less than 0.001). After GnRH administration, FSH increased from 3.89 +/- 1.10 to 10.58 +/- 1.30 ng/ml in Booroola-Awassi (N = 6) and from 1.87 +/- 0.29 to 4.64 +/- 0.33 ng/ml in Awassi (N = 6) ewe lambs (P less than 0.05). Ovariectomy caused an increase in plasma FSH in Booroola-Awassi (N = 4) and Awassi (N = 4) ewe lambs. At 1 week after ovariectomy plasma FSH increased from 5.96 +/- 1.02 to 7.06 +/- 1.05 ng/ml in F+ and from 1.67 +/- 1.06 to 5.21 +/- 0.66 ng/ml in ++ ewe lambs, suggesting a stronger negative feed-back effect exerted by the ovaries of Awassi lambs. At 15 weeks after ovariectomy FSH values were similar in Booroola-Awassi (18.28 +/- 1.96 ng/ml) and Awassi (16.07 +/- 0.70 ng/ml) lambs. Although the overall pattern of pituitary response to ovariectomy was similar in the F+ and ++ ewe lambs, Booroola-Awassi lambs had small ovaries (132.5 +/- 24.9 mg) and follicular development did not proceed beyond the preantral stage in 3/4 animals, and Awassi lambs had large ovaries (600.0 +/- 233.9 mg) (P less than 0.05) with many preantral and antral follicles.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2516137 TI - Gonadotrophic control of follicular development and the use of exogenous gonadotrophins for induction of oestrus and ovulation in the bitch. PMID- 2516138 TI - Differential vasodilator effect of nitroglycerin on systemic capacitance and resistance vessels in anesthetized dogs, and the mechanism of its action--a study by measuring mean circulatory pressure and total peripheral resistance. AB - The aim of our studies was to examine if the baroreceptor reflex induced by intravenous injection of nitroglycerin (NG) nearly nullifies the vasodilator action of NG on the systemic capacitance vessels in dogs anesthetized with pentobarbital. We performed total spinal anesthesia (TSA) in open-chest dogs to eliminate the baroreceptor reflex. Dogs in which mean blood pressure (MBP) was maintained at about 100 mmHg by continuous intravenous infusion of epinephrine formed the TSA 100 group, and those in which MBP was maintained at about 70 mmHg formed the TSA 70 group. Dose-response curves relating 5-6 different doses (0.8 to 200 micrograms/kg) of intravenous NG, to changes in mean circulatory pressure (% delta MCP) and to changes in total peripheral resistance (% delta TPR), were constructed. These data were compared with those from untreated dogs. In addition, we also studied plasma catecholamine (CA) concentrations before and after the intravenous injection of NG. (1) There was no significant difference in the dose-response curves of NG for % delta TPR between the 3 groups. (2) There was no significant difference in the dose-response curves for % delta MCP between the 2 TSA groups. However, there was significant difference in the dose-response curves for % delta MCP between the TSA groups and the untreated dogs. The dose response curves for % delta MCP in the TSA groups shifted upwards as compared with that of the untreated dogs. (3) In the TSA 100 group, there was no significant increase in the plasma CA concentrations with 100 micrograms/kg of NG. In the untreated group, intravenous injection of 12.5 micrograms/kg and 100 micrograms/kg of NG caused a dose-related fall in MBP and a dose-related rise in the plasma norepinephrine and epinephrine concentrations. Our results suggest that the vasodilator action of NG on the systemic capacitance vessels in the untreated dogs was counterbalanced partly by the vasoconstriction produced by the baroreceptor reflex, with its direct vasodilator effect masked when the hypotensive doses of NG were given acutely. PMID- 2516139 TI - [Flow cytometric analysis of surface phenotypes in B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma]. AB - The objective of this study is to demonstrate the diagnostic usefulness of flow cytometric analysis of surface immunoglobulin (S-Ig) light chains and monoclonal antibodies (MoAbs) in B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. For this purpose, the biopsied specimen (lymph nodes, tonsils, and spleens etc) cell suspensions from 44 patients were studied to detect the expression of S-Ig and several antigens recognized by MoAbs. A tumor was considered B-lineage if expression of pan B antigens and/or monoclonal light chains (S-Ig and/or cytoplasmic Ig) was detected in the absence of pan T antigens. Monoclonal expression of S-Ig light chain was detectable in 37 of 44 (84%) patients with B-cell lymphoma. In two of three cases having polyclonal S-Ig light chain, monoclonal C-Ig light chain was detected in large cells on paraffin-embedded tissues with immunohistochemical technique. Pan B antigens were strongly positive in four cases with negative S-Ig light chain. In diffuse large cell lymphoma, expression of CD11b was restricted to non-cleaved cell type (DLN). CD10 was favorably expressed by non-cleaved cell type and to a lesser extent, by immunoblastic histology (LI), but was not detected on cases with cleaved cell type (DLC). Furthermore, relatively uniform expression of S-IgM was seen in DLC subgroup, and on the contrary, heterogenous S-Ig was shown in other histology groups (DLN, LI). Flow cytometry provides a rapid, objective technology to confirm the immunological diagnosis of B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. PMID- 2516140 TI - [Clinical significance of serum luteinizing hormone analysis in pituitary function tests]. PMID- 2516141 TI - [Clinical significance of serum TSH analysis in pituitary function tests]. PMID- 2516142 TI - [Clinical significance of serum FSH analysis in pituitary function tests]. PMID- 2516143 TI - [Clinical significance of T3 uptake in endocrine tests of the thyroid-parathyroid system]. PMID- 2516144 TI - [Clinical significance of serum free triiodothyronine analysis in endocrine tests of the thyroid-parathyroid system]. PMID- 2516145 TI - [Clinical significance of alpha 1-T glycoprotein analysis in biochemical tests]. PMID- 2516146 TI - [Clinical significance of 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine analysis in endocrine tests of the adrenal medulla and sympathetic nervous system]. PMID- 2516147 TI - [Clinical significance of estradiol analysis in endocrine tests of the gonadal and placental system]. PMID- 2516149 TI - [Clinical significance of hemopexin analysis in biochemical laboratory tests]. PMID- 2516148 TI - [Clinical significance of haptoglobin analysis in biochemical laboratory tests]. PMID- 2516150 TI - [Clinical significance of Bence Jones protein analysis in biochemical laboratory tests]. PMID- 2516151 TI - [Clinical significance of beta-glucuronidase analysis in biochemical laboratory tests]. PMID- 2516152 TI - [Significance of glycolipid analysis in clinical tests]. PMID- 2516153 TI - [Our way of thinking about clinical laboratory test-set by laboratory automation]. PMID- 2516154 TI - [Significance of arterial carbon dioxide tension analysis in clinical tests]. PMID- 2516155 TI - Significance of zinc analysis in clinical tests. PMID- 2516156 TI - [Significance of ceruloplasmin analysis in clinical tests]. PMID- 2516159 TI - [Clinical significance of factor VIII analysis in blood coagulation tests]. PMID- 2516157 TI - [Significance of transferrin analysis in clinical tests]. PMID- 2516158 TI - [Clinical significance of fibrinogen analysis in blood coagulation tests]. PMID- 2516161 TI - [Serine proteinase inhibitors for blood coagulation and fibrinolysis (AT III, HC II, PCI, t-PAI, C1INA)]. PMID- 2516162 TI - [Clinical significance of alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor analysis in blood coagulation and fibrinolysis tests]. PMID- 2516160 TI - [Clinical significance of plasminogen analysis in blood coagulo-fibrinolytic tests]. PMID- 2516163 TI - [Clinical significance of alpha 1-antitrypsin analysis in biochemical tests]. PMID- 2516164 TI - [Clinical significance of platelet aggregation in blood coagulo-fibrinolytic tests]. PMID- 2516165 TI - [Clinical significance of lupus anticoagulant analysis in blood coagulo fibrinolytic tests]. PMID- 2516166 TI - [Clinical significance of kappa-chain immunoglobulins in biochemical tests]. PMID- 2516168 TI - A key role of the mammillary body in mediation of the antianxiety action of zopiclone, a cyclopyrrolone derivative. AB - The present study was designed to elucidate the brain site of the anticonflict action of zopiclone (ZOP), a cyclopyrrolone derivative, using the rat conflict procedure. ZOP at 10 micrograms/microliters, bilaterally injected into the mammillary body (MB), produced a significant increase in the punished responses, with no change in the unpunished responses. There were no significant changes in these responses when ZOP was injected into the central amygdala, frontal cortex or dorsal hippocampus. Attention should be given to the possibility that the MB is the site of the anticonflict action of ZOP. PMID- 2516167 TI - Actions of a newly synthesized nitro-compound, E-4701, on rabbit vascular smooth muscles. AB - The effects of a newly synthesized water soluble and light resistant nitro compound, E-4701, on the electrical and mechanical properties of smooth muscle cells of rabbit mesenteric and coronary arteries were investigated. In the endothelium-denuded rabbit mesenteric artery, E-4701 relaxed the tissue pre contracted by noradrenaline (IC50 = 40 microM) to a greater extent than that contracted by high K, but to a lesser extent than that contracted by acetylcholine (ACh) or high K in endothelium-denuded rabbit coronary artery (the IC50 was 20 nM or 60 nM, respectively). Nitroglycerin showed much the same relaxing action on the above tissue (IC50 for the ACh- or K-induced contraction was 20 nM or 65 nM, respectively). Relaxing actions of E-4701 or nitroglycerin were prevented by 10 microM methylene blue. In muscle cells of the porcine coronary artery, E-4701 or nitroglycerin inhibited the Ca-transient provoked by ACh, as examined using fura-2. Both drugs had no effect on the Ca-induced contraction in skinned muscle strips. ACh produced a transient hyperpolarization with subsequent depolarization, but in the endothelium-denuded tissues. ACh only depolarized the membrane. E-4701 inhibited the ACh-induced depolarization, but nitroglycerin did not. We concluded from our observations that E-4701 has the typical characteristics of a nitrocompound with an inhibitory action on the agonist-induced membrane depolarization. PMID- 2516169 TI - A new bronchial asthma model using calcium ionophore A23187 in guinea pigs. AB - We attempted to develop a nonimmunologically induced asthma model using the calcium ionophore A23187. Inhalation of A23187 (0.001-0.005%) for 5 min in male Hartley guinea pigs caused a marked bronchoconstriction in a dose-dependent manner with negligible effect on systemic blood pressure. The A23187-induced bronchoconstriction was strongly inhibited by chlorpheniramine and FPL-55712. These results indicate that an asthma-like bronchoconstriction was induced by inhalation of A23187 in guinea pigs, and the main chemical mediators involved in this response would be histamine and peptidoleukotrienes. PMID- 2516170 TI - Effect of TRK-100, a prostacyclin analogue, on endotoxin-induced enhancement of blood coagulation in rats. AB - TRK-100 (0.03, 0.1 and 0.3 mg/kg, p.o.), a chemically stable analogue of prostacyclin, dose-dependently prevented blood coagulation and glomerular fibrin deposition which were enhanced by 4 hr infusion of endotoxin (100 mg/kg) in rats. In addition, TRK-100 suppressed the generation of endotoxin-induced tissue thromboplastin like activity in cultured human endothelial cells. PMID- 2516171 TI - Biochemical nature of pyruvate dehydrogenase complex in the patient with primary lactic acidaemia. AB - The biochemical nature of the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDHC) in muscle was studied in a patient with pyruvate dehydrogenase complex deficiency. The enzyme activity was approximately 30% of the control level and the apparent Km value of the enzyme was similar to the control value. The immunoblot pattern of each subunit protein, E1 alpha, E1 beta, the component X, E2 and E3, was comparable to that of the control on both one- and two-dimensional electrophoresis, the staining of each subunit protein being reduced in intensity, corresponding to the reduced enzyme activity. The enzyme deficiency is likely to be quantitative rather than qualitative, although the actual mechanism is unknown. PMID- 2516172 TI - Hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase deficiency in three brothers with gout: characterization of a variant, HPRTEdinburgh, having altered isoelectric point, increased thermal lability and normal levels of messenger RNA. AB - Three brothers who developed acute gouty arthritis at ages 16, 20 and 26 years were found to have increased plasma urate. Erythrocyte hypoxanthine phosphoribosyltransferase (HPRT) activity was less than 1% of normal and adenine phosphoribosyltransferase (APRT) activity was increased 2-3-fold. This variant, HPRTEdinburgh, was further studied using lymphoblast lines established from these patients and the following observations are consistent with a mutation involving a single amino acid substitution. Lymphoblasts from these patients had 0.9-1.6% of control HPRT activity which was 8-fold more labile than control activity at 75 degrees C. Isoelectric focusing of the variant protein in polyacrylamide gels indicated a pI of 6.5-6.7 which is more basic than normal HPRT, pI 6.0-6.3. The Michaelis constants were increased: 10-fold for hypoxanthine from 1.3 to 13 mumol/L, and 5-fold for PP-ribose-P from 6 to 30 mumol/L, for control and variant respectively. The Ki for product inhibition by GMP was marginally increased in the variant. Northern blot analysis of variant lymphoblast RNA indicated normal amounts of the expected 1.6 kilobase messenger RNA. PMID- 2516173 TI - Enzymological characterization of a feline analogue of primary hyperoxaluria type 2: a model for the human disease. AB - This paper concerns an enzymological investigation into a putative feline analogue of the human autosomal recessive disease primary hyperoxaluria type 2. The hepatic activities of D-glycerate dehydrogenase, using both D-glycerate and hydroxypyruvate as substrates, and glyoxylate reductase, which are the deficient enzyme activities in human primary hyperoxaluria type 2, were markedly depleted in four affected cats (0-6% of controls). The activities of a number of other enzymes, lactate dehydrogenase, glutamate dehydrogenase, D-amino acid oxidase, aspartate:2-oxoglutarate amino-transferase, glutamate:glyoxylate aminotransferase and alanine:glyoxylate aminotransferase (the deficient enzyme in primary hyperoxaluria type 1) were unaltered. The intracellular distribution of D glycerate dehydrogenase and glyoxylate reductase in cat liver was shown to be cytosolic, as they are in human liver. The activities of D-glycerate dehydrogenase and glyoxylate reductase were determined in unaffected related cats and putative heterozygotes were identified. The correlation between D-glycerate dehydrogenase and glyoxylate reductase activities in the related cats and their combined deficiency in the affected cats confirmed previous suggestions that they are identical gene products. PMID- 2516174 TI - Cholesterol and prostaglandin synthesis by cultured human skin fibroblasts in the Alagille syndrome involving paucity of interlobular bile ducts. AB - Children with Alagille syndrome show high serum cholesterol (15-20 mmol/L). To establish correlation of this unusual level of cholesterol with the regulation of cholesterol metabolism, 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase (HMGR) activity and synthesis of cholesterol, fatty acids and acidic steroids from [14C]acetate were determined in cultured skin fibroblasts from 2-3 year old children. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) synthesis and nucleic acid synthesis were determined in cells when they were growing in medium containing normal, Alagille or fetal bovine serum. These values were similar to values of controls. HMGR activity was found to be similar in cells of control and children with the syndrome, whether the cells were incubated in lipoprotein-deficient or normal medium. Incorporation of acetate into cholesterol was inhibited to a greater extent by lipoprotein containing medium in control than in children with the syndrome. Fatty acid synthesis was similar in all conditions. 1-7% of the recovered lipid radioactivity in cells and medium separated as acidic steroids. Serum from a donor patient, when included in the medium, did not affect PGE2 or nucleic acid synthesis compared with normal human or fetal bovine serum. The data suggest that cells of children with Alagille syndrome may have a membrane defect of transfer of cholesterol (LDL receptor defect) leading to excessive cholesterol synthesis. Also, synthesis of acidic steroids (bile acid-like material) and their secretion into the medium occurs in normal fibroblasts and those from children with the syndrome. PMID- 2516175 TI - Uridine nucleotide sugars in erythrocytes of patients with galactokinase deficiency. AB - The levels of UDPglucose and UDPgalactose (UDPGal) have been measured in erythrocytes of seven patients with galactokinase deficiency. Normal levels of UDPGal were found in all patients with galactokinase deficiency (McKusick 23020). This is in contrast with reduced values of UDPGal found in patients with classical galactosaemia who have complete absence of galactose-1-phosphate uridyl transferase activity. It was demonstrated that patients with galactokinase deficiency had an incomplete enzyme block in erythrocytes by direct enzyme assay, by 14CO2 production from [1-14C]galactose, and by the appearance of labelled intermediates, notably galactose-1-phosphate and UDPhexose. PMID- 2516176 TI - Neurological deterioration in adult phenylketonuria. AB - A 28-year-old man with classical phenylketonuria had increased seizure frequency and rapidly progressive spasticity. There was a marked reduction of biogenic amine neurotransmitter metabolites in cerebrospinal fluid. Dietary therapy reduced serum phenylalanine levels, improved symptoms of hypertonicity, and cerebrospinal fluid neurotransmitter metabolites became normal. An adolescent male with classical phenylketonuria, treated by dietary restriction until age 6 years, was assessed for decreasing school performance at 18 years. Cerebrospinal fluid biogenic amine neurotransmitter metabolites were significantly reduced. Magnetic resonance imaging in both subjects showed multiple areas of increased signal intensity in cerebral white matter. Neuropathological changes in classical phenylketonuria have been characterized as a dysmyelinating or demyelinating process. Neurochemical studies show a defect in brain lipids and biogenic amine metabolism. In the past, dietary therapy was directed at reducing hyperphenylalaninaemia only during the first decade of life. This report, as well as other studies, indicates that dietary therapy should be lifelong in patients with classical phenylketonuria, in order to prevent progressive and insidious neurological deterioration in later life. PMID- 2516177 TI - Myoclonic epilepsy of Lafora and arylsulphatase A deficiency in the same patient. AB - Very low levels of arylsulphatase A were found in a young patient with the clinical features of Lafora disease, confirmed by muscle biopsy. The deficiency was shown both in leukocytes and cultured fibroblasts. A cerebroside sulphate loading showed that 93% of [14C]cerebroside sulphate taken up by skin fibroblasts from the patient remained unmetabolized after a 24h pulse, ruling out pseudo arylsulphatase A deficiency. In the healthy parents and siblings of the patient, biochemical data suggested heterozygosity for arylsulphatase A deficiency. The apparent co-inheritance of arylsulphatase A deficiency and Lafora disease in this family might be the consequence of genetic linkage between the two genes. PMID- 2516179 TI - Niemann-Pick disease type C could result from a genetic deficiency of cholesterol egress from the lysosomes. PMID- 2516178 TI - The management of breast feeding among infants with phenylketonuria. AB - Treatment for phenylketonuria (PKU) involves using low phenylalanine-free or phenylalanine-free formulas and supplementation with sufficient phenylalanine for normal growth and development. Eighteen infants with phenylketonuria who received breast milk as their primary phenylalanine source were compared with ten other infants with PKU who received their phenylalanine primarily from infant formulas. There were no significant differences between breast-fed and formula-fed infants for serum phenylalanine, serum tyrosine, length, weight, head circumference, haematocrit, haemoglobin, serum iron, total iron binding capacity, percentage iron saturation, ferritin, plasma zinc and total calorie intake. Breast-fed infants did show lower mean corpuscular volume at 3 months and 6 months of age. Breast-fed infants had lower phenylalanine intake at 2, 4, 5 and 6 months of age. Breast-fed infants at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 months of age had lower protein intake. Breast feeding may be continued in the newly diagnosed phenylketonuric infant without any apparent adverse nutritional consequences. PMID- 2516180 TI - Twenty-one cases of phenylketonuria out of 358,767 newborns in Shanghai, China. PMID- 2516181 TI - Progressive systemic scleroderma in an infant with partial phenylketonuria. PMID- 2516185 TI - [Non-Mediterranean lymphoma producing heavy alpha chains]. AB - At the present, immunoproliferative small intestinal disease (IPSID) is considered a fairly homogeneous entity. Isolated heavy chain production is so closely related with IPSID that has been considered as a natural biologic marker for it. By contrast, we report here the case of a 63-year-old female that developed a multinodular small bowel lymphoma without clinical malabsorption symptoms. The main tumour mass was located in proximal jejunum and the neighbour intestinal mucosa did not show neoplastic cell infiltrates. Immunohistochemical methods demonstrated restrictive presence of IgA1 subclass in the neoplastic cells without presence of light chains. Cases as present are extremely infrequent and their potential relationship with IPSID has not been completely outlined, being useful in trying to understand the spectrum of gut lymphomas. PMID- 2516184 TI - Value of the diagnostic sodium calcium edetate mobilization test as a criterion of lead absorption. AB - Among the laboratory tests available for the follow-up of lead-exposed workers, the EDTA mobilization test is presently underestimated in the diagnosis of lead intoxication. The authors present the results of regression comparison between the urinary lead excretion 3 h (PbU 3) or 6 h (PbU 6) after EDTA injection and blood lead (PbB), urinary aminolaevulinic acid (ALAU) and urinary lead (PbU). The results were collected from 133 medical examinations of workers exposed to lead, who put in a claim for compensation to the 'Fund of Occupational Diseases' in Belgium. On the basis of the regression curves, PbU 3 and PbU 6 limit values are calculated for different cut-off values of PbB in excessive lead absorption and lead intoxication. For each of these values the 'sensitivity', 'specificity' and 'validity' are calculated. As a result the authors still consider the EDTA mobilization test as a valuable parameter in the diagnosis of lead absorption. PMID- 2516186 TI - [Optimization of antimicrobial therapy: a multidirectional approach]. PMID- 2516182 TI - Galactosaemia with fatal cerebral oedema. PMID- 2516183 TI - Hair root diagnosis of Fabry's disease. PMID- 2516187 TI - [Acute gonorrhea. Treatment schedules. Evaluation]. AB - It has become gradually more difficult to achieve therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of gonorrhea without the help of bacteriologic examinations that include the identification of resistant strains. We present information that evaluates the incidence of beta-lactamase producing strains and discuss the efficacy of the prescribed treatments. PMID- 2516188 TI - [Vater Paccini's neurofibroma. Report of 3 cases]. AB - The authors study three clinical cases of Pacinian neurofibromas. All of them were located in the fingers. A bibliographic review was performed. The morphologic, clinical and histological features are reviewed and stressed its benign behavior and special localization. PMID- 2516189 TI - Continuous monitoring of ventilation in spontaneously breathing anesthetized rats. AB - A method for continuous monitoring and recording of ventilation rate and tidal volume in spontaneously breathing anesthetized rats is described. The system is based on a hot wire flow meter placed in connection with the tracheotomy tube. In cardiovascular experiments routine monitoring of ventilation was found useful in the following instances: 1) detection of ventilatory disorders, 2) detection of central effects of drugs, 3) interpretation of results in cases where cardiovascular drugs alter ventilatory function. PMID- 2516190 TI - Ethics committees and medical research: the Australian experience. AB - Australian ethics committees have a central role in the regulation of medical research. Recently this role has come under public criticism despite the fact that there are almost no Australian studies of the workings of ethics committees. This paper looks at the problems and advantages of ethics committees in the light of some studies, including two recent Australian investigations. It concludes by proposing a model of regulation that utilizes the strengths of ethics committees while avoiding the problems which can arise as a result of their self-regulating nature. PMID- 2516191 TI - Nurses' responses to moral dilemmas. AB - Using six typical dilemma situations a study testing the morality and reasons for the reactions of subjects was conducted and the responses investigated. PMID- 2516192 TI - Organ transplantations: the rights of donors. AB - History of organ transplantation dating back to 3500 BC is briefly surveyed as well as modern legislation with specific reference to Portugal. The importance and necessity for medical and legal certification of death is discussed as are the rights of the organ donor. PMID- 2516193 TI - The District Psychiatrist Institution: a criticism. AB - The District Psychiatrist (DP) Institution was founded in Israel in 1955 as part of the Mental Health Act, more precisely: The law for the treatment of the mentally ill which remains essentially the same today). The DP is a senior psychiatrist nominated by the State to deal with involuntary admissions within his district. He has, in addition to the previously mentioned functions, numerous other activities which 'are invested' in him and which demand considerable time and effort. This article considers the question whether the DP's authority when issuing hospitalization orders is a judicial action rather than a medical one. It is suggested that it is judicial and this function is presented as a paradigm for medical paternalism, originating as it has from 'good intentions'. It is submitted that the DP Institution needs reassessment. PMID- 2516194 TI - Rape treatment programmes: delivering innovative services to survivors. AB - This article discusses a study commissioned by the State of Florida (USA) to identify services provided to rape survivors and to identify unmet needs of survivors. Attention is given to the portion of the study which describes the 25 specialized rape service programmes located in the state. These provide a variety of services including crisis intervention, advocacy, counselling, and community education. Most programmes are closely associated with a parent organization, which provides funding, administrative support and physical facilities, but maintaining adequate funding remains a problem for many programmes. Most employ some paid staff, but must rely heavily on volunteers. Florida's rape service programmes offer a number of innovative services, including sensitivity training for law enforcement officers, provision of tangible items such as disposable clothing and handbooks to survivors, advocacy with the judicial system, the establishment of inter-agency committees to promote better treatment of survivors and recognition of volunteers and community officials who have been especially helpful. PMID- 2516195 TI - Scientific examination in sexual assault. AB - Details are given of the sexual assaults dealt with by this laboratory, with particular mention of the increasing number of rape cases submitted each year. The contribution of a forensic biologist to the investigation of alleged rapes is summarized. The laboratory's sexual assault index is explained using examples of three series of linked rapes recognized by this method. The uses and limitations of the ABO grouping of semen are briefly mentioned and an example given showing how the male's ABO group may be ascertained even in the absence of semen. PMID- 2516196 TI - A proposal to study sociocultural influences leading to alcoholism. AB - The theoretical perspectives underlying informal social controls in the development of alcoholism are highlighted with a view to acquiring an understanding of the role played by these informal social controls. PMID- 2516197 TI - Recent trends in drug abuse in southern Africa. PMID- 2516201 TI - Community attitudes to alcohol and drug abuse in a black urban township. PMID- 2516198 TI - Alcohol abuse: contamination by western influences of the rural African village. AB - The religious and social custom of beer-brewing and beer-drinking in rural African (Xhosa) villages is described. The purposes that serve as occasions for the custom and the fixed rules that apply are highlighted. PMID- 2516199 TI - The sexual abuse, eating disorder and addiction (SEA) triad: syndrome or coincidence? AB - The prevalence of the triad of sexual abuse, addiction and eating disorder warrants an investigation into any one of these if the other two are present. PMID- 2516202 TI - Separate bargaining units in the health care industry: crisis for professional nurses in the USA. AB - An in depth discussion of the 1974 amendment to the National Labor Relations Act which was extended to cover employees of non-profit health care institutions. The controversial congressional intent behind the amendment is examined in historical context from two points of view viz The Board (NLRB) and the Circuit Courts. The author sets out to show that public interest will best be served by separate bargaining units. PMID- 2516200 TI - The prevalence of psychoactive drug intake in a metropolitan population. AB - Background, discussion and results of a study involving a survey conducted on the prevalence of hypertension, the consumption of psychotropic substances in cooperation with a polling-institute that employed fifty physicians trained in interviewing techniques. PMID- 2516204 TI - Health policy and the AIDS epidemic: the call for public health intervention: the use of legislation for prevention, its tasks and limits. AB - A warning is sounded against harsh legislation aimed at AIDS sufferers and HIV seropositives, and a plea put forward for humane and sensitive treatment of sufferers. PMID- 2516206 TI - Shebeens and alcoholism in southern Africa with special reference to Bophuthatswana. PMID- 2516205 TI - Attitudes of medical personnel (doctors and nurses) toward informing the terminal patient. AB - The right to be informed, an indispensable condition of informed consent for a given therapeutic intervention, results in numerous practical problems in extreme situations. The purpose of this study was to analyze the relevant attitudes of medical practitioners and nursing staff. A total of 108 doctors and 102 nurses ranging in age from 22 to 63 years (mean 29, 67; SD 8, 73) was randomly selected from personnel currently in practice in Murcia (Spain) and asked to respond to a 72 item questionnaire developed by the authors. The results underline the need to approach the doctor-patient relationship from standpoint more closely attuned to the real circumstances of medical practice. PMID- 2516203 TI - Rape and its relation to social disorganization, pornography and inequality in the USA. AB - A theoretical model seeks to integrate social disorganization and feminist theories of rape, reporting an empirical test of that model using data on rapes per 100,000 population known to the police in the 50 states of the United States. The model includes the following aspects of the social organization of the states: social disorganization (measured by a six item index), sexual inequality (measured by a status of women index to men), pornography (measured by a sex magazine circulation index for eight sexually explicit magazines) and the level of culturally legitimate violence (measured by a 12 item legitimate violence index using indicators like corporal punishment in schools. There were marked differences between states of the USA in the incidence of rape during the 1980 82. Path analysis was used to test the theoretical model, which posits rape as a function of the direct and indirect effects of social disorganization, sexual inequality, pornography, legitimate violence and seven control variables. The results show that all four variables play an important part in explaining differences between states in rape; and that together, the variables in the model explain 83 per cent of the state-to-state variation in rape. Women are in much greater danger of being raped in some American states than in others. Since the FBI began compiling statistics on rape, states like Alaska, Nevada, and California have consistently registered many more rapes per capita than North Dakota, Maine, and Iowa. What factors account for such differences between states? Could the variation in the rape rate be explained by four aspects of the social structure of states: (1) the proliferation of pornography (2) sexual inequality (3) culturally legitimate violence and (4) social disorganization. Each factor represents a theory which will be examined within the context of an integrated theory on rape. PMID- 2516207 TI - 'Do not drink wine or strong drink': alcohol and responsibility in ancient Jewish sources. AB - Injunctions against alcohol in ancient Jewish sources are cited and discussed. PMID- 2516208 TI - The dangerous psychiatric patient: Part II: Short-term treatment. PMID- 2516210 TI - Caring as responsivity: response to value as the important-in-itself. PMID- 2516211 TI - The accountability of incest offenders. AB - Child victims of incest further victimization if offenders are not brought to justice. Cultural factors that inhibit the reporting of offenders are discussed. The work of Prescott House, Jefferson County, Alabama, an interview site for child victims of incest, is described. All those concerned with child abuse in a community should collaborate to find and prosecute offenders. PMID- 2516209 TI - The role of the family in alcohol education and alcohol abuse in Poland. AB - Alcohol consumption is seen as a threat to the social structure in Poland. Particularly affected, and cause for grave concern, are the children of alcoholic families. PMID- 2516214 TI - Rape law: a feminist legal analysis. AB - Rape law is analyzed from the feminist perspective. Feminism can be credited with making the first serious efforts to empower women in all aspects of life, including the right to be free from sexual assault. Part 1 describes feminist theory concerning rape, Part 2 discusses some of the misogynistic images that have influenced rape law while Part 3 surveys some of the changes that have occurred in the United States, England and Israel concerning rape law. Part 4 analyzes the effects of these changes. PMID- 2516213 TI - Sexual Assault Centre, Auckland, New Zealand. AB - In 1982 a sexual assault centre was established in Central Auckland. Its history, philosophy and structure are described. Services to sexual assault victims are outlined. Of particular interest is the Sexual Abuse Team, comprising a triad of specifically trained staff from the Police, Department of Social Welfare and the Sexual Abuse Centre. The Auckland Centre has served as a prototype for centres in other regions of New Zealand. PMID- 2516212 TI - The differentiation of francophone rapists and non-rapists using penile circumferential measures. AB - Since 1977 there have been seven published and two unpublished reports concerning the differentiation of rapists and non-rapists using penile circumferential measures. Of the published experiments, six report significant differences between groups. The purpose of the present investigation was to extend the scope of this work using a French-speaking population. Ten rapists and ten non-rapists were exposed to four classes of audiotaped stimuli: mutually consenting, rape, aggressive and sexually neutral episodes. Penile circumference changes were recorded during stimulus presentation. The results indicated that while rapist and non-rapist groups were not distinguished in terms to their response to mutually consenting sex, the two groups were distinguished with respect to their responses to rape episodes. The discrimination was even more marked when the results were individually analyzed using the rape index. Thus we were able to validate, in French-speaking subjects, the differentiation between rapists and non-rapists using penile measures. Several hypotheses are advanced which could explain the differences between experiments which demonstrate and those which fail to demonstrate discrimination between groups. PMID- 2516215 TI - Assessing the veracity of children's testimony. AB - This study examines the effects of method of recall on the accuracy of adults' and children's eyewitness accounts. A filmed staged accident was used as test material and subjects questioned immediately after watching the accident. Eight pre-structured questions were asked. Children's representations are often poorly articulated and lack cohesion. Established information-gathering techniques should be tailored to allow children to provide evidence. PMID- 2516217 TI - Molecular biology of class 5 outer membrane proteins of Neisseria meningitidis. PMID- 2516218 TI - Serum killing of meningococci and several other gram-negative bacterial species is not decreased by incubating them with cytidine 5'-monophospho-N-acetyl neuraminic acid. PMID- 2516216 TI - [Meningococcosis in Tunisia. Apropos of 80 cases]. AB - Meningococcosis are nowadays an health problem because their incidence rate (38 cases/100,000 people in 1986 in Mahdia region) and a high death rate (40%) due to fulminating forms. At the occasion of a prospective study during the first six months of 1987, the authors report the emergence of C serogroup (21%), the smallness of A serogroup (6.50%) and the predominance of B serogroup (68%). Improving level of living, good prophylaxy based on spiramycin, development of use of meningococcal vaccine are advisable means to control epidemic outbreaks. PMID- 2516219 TI - The requirement for gamma interferon in resistance of mice to experimental tularemia. AB - The role of gamma interferon (IFN-gamma) in the host response to experimental tularemia was evaluated in a murine model. C57BL/6 strain mice were given a series of daily intravenous injections of 10(6) units (U) recombinant murine IFN gamma prior to infection with Francisella tularensis LVS. Three days later, the number of bacteria in the tissues of IFN-gamma-treated mice was found to be less than that in control mice by a factor of 10-20. The effect of IFN-gamma on anti tularemic resistance was dependent upon the administered dose, with as little as 10(4) U/mouse/day inducing a significant level of enhanced resistance. IFN-gamma was also effective in enhancing resistance to tularemia in the A/J mouse strain which, in comparison with the C57BL/6 strain, is more susceptible to infection. When C57BL/6 mice were treated with a monoclonal antibody directed against murine IFN-gamma, the number of Francisella recovered from their tissues 6 days following infection was increased by as much as 15 times, in comparison with control mice. The results of these experiments clearly indicate that the resolution of experimental murine tularemia is dependent, at least in part, on the participation of IFN-gamma. PMID- 2516220 TI - Pseudo-allelic relationship between non-homologous genes concerned with biosynthesis of polyglycerol phosphate and polyribitol phosphate teichoic acids in Bacillus subtilis strains 168 and W23. AB - A 60 kbp region of the Bacillus subtilis chromosome encompassing the genes concerned with teichoic acid biosynthesis has been subjected to physical analysis. No homology was detected by Southern hybridization between DNA segments encoding the tag genes of strain 168, concerned with polyglycerol phosphate (poly(groP)) biosynthesis, and the tar genes of strain W23, concerned with polyribitol phosphate (poly-(rboP)) biosynthesis. Analysis of 168/W23 interstrain hybrids that incorporate poly(rboP) instead of poly-(groP) into their cell walls revealed that, in every case, integral substitution of the W23 tar genes for the 168 tag genes had occurred. Interstrain hybrids of the 'W23-like' type have inherited larger segments of W23 DNA than interstrain hybrids of the 'mixed' type. The tag and tar genes are located at equivalent positions on the chromosomes of strains 168 and W23, behaving, in genetic crosses, like an allelic pair. They provide the first example of a pseudo-allelic relationship between non homologous genes in B. subtilis. PMID- 2516221 TI - The micronucleus test and erythropoiesis. Effects of erythropoietin and a mutagen on the ratio of polychromatic to normochromatic erythrocytes (P/N ratio). AB - It is considered that a decrease of the ratio of polychromatic erythrocytes (PCE) to normochromatic erythrocytes (NCE) (P/N) in the micronucleus test is an indicator of bone marrow toxicity induced by mutagens. However, the exact meaning of fluctuation in the P/N ratio is not yet known. We have studied this point by counting the total number of erythrocytes and nucleated cells in the bone marrow following various treatments. The P/N ratio decreased gradually with time after administration of mitomycin C. Our data suggest that the decrease of P/N ratio was attributable to an increase in the numbers of the denominator, i.e. NCE, caused by rapid differentiation and multiplication or denucleation of erythroblasts which remained in the bone marrow instead of entering the peripheral blood stream. A decrease of P/N ratio was also observed in the early phase after administration of erythropoietin, an agent which induces differentiation and multiplication of erythroblasts. This phenomenon might result from an increase of PCE delivery into the blood circulation. However, following the initial decrease, the P/N ratio increased gradually 48 h after administration of erythropoietin. It is supposed that this increase probably resulted from an increase in PCE in the bone marrow due to the direct effects of erythropoietin on erythropoiesis. The drastic change in erythropoiesis in the bone marrow induced by either mutagen or erythropoietin treatment will affect the fluctuations of the P/N ratio or the number of micronucleated erythrocytes per non-micronucleated erythocytes in the micronucleus test. This contrasts with the original explanation for such fluctuations which attributed them to replenishment of the marrow by peripheral blood. PMID- 2516222 TI - In vitro and in vivo cytogenetic studies of three beta-lactam antibiotics (penicillin VK, ampicillin and carbenicillin). AB - The in vitro and in vivo clastogenic potential of three beta-lactam antibiotics, ampicillin, carbenicillin and penicillin VK, was investigated using cultured human lymphocytes and the rat micronucleus test. Neither ampicillin nor carbenicillin induced significant increases in chromosome damage in vitro up to test concentrations of 10 mg/ml. These results contrast with other published studies on these compounds. Both drugs were also inactive in vivo in the rat micronucleus test, using single- or double-dosing regimens (ampicillin 5 g/kg orally; carbenicillin 500 mg/kg i.m., either dosed once 30 h before marrow preparation, or dosed twice 48 and 24 h before marrow preparation). In vitro, penicillin VK induced a dose-related increase in chromosome and chromatid gaps and breaks, down to concentrations of 1.25 mg/ml. It is likely that the increase in aberration frequency was partly the result of exposing the cells to increased K+ ion concentration, as similar results were obtained when potassium chloride was evaluated over the same molar concentration range. However, the occurrence of 'ion-mediated' clastogenic effects as reported by other workers, does not fully account for the positive effects obtained with this compound, as clastogenic effects were also observed with penicillin V in this test system at similar test concentrations. It is known that exposure of mammalian cells to extremely high concentrations of beta-lactams can affect DNA polymerase alpha activity. An inhibitory effect upon DNA polymerase alpha resulting in a breakdown in the structural integrity of the chromosomes, is suggested as an additional mechanism of action for penicillin VK.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2516223 TI - Specific labeling of cell surface poly-N-acetyllactosamine glycans. PMID- 2516224 TI - Microsomal sulfation of proteochondroitin, chondroitin, and chondroitin oligosaccharides. PMID- 2516225 TI - Affinity chromatography of oligosaccharides on E4-phytohemagglutinin-agarose column. PMID- 2516226 TI - Endoglycosidases from Flavobacterium meningosepticum application to biological problems. PMID- 2516229 TI - Mycoplasma genitalium and Mycoplasma pneumoniae share a 67 kilodalton protein as a main cross-reactive antigen. AB - It was demonstrated that a 67 kilodalton (kDa) protein of Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a main cross-reactive antigen with similar molecular weight protein of Mycoplasma genitalium by Western blot analysis using monoclonal antibody to 67 kDa protein of M. pneumoniae and hyperimmune rabbit sera directed against each mycoplasma strain. PMID- 2516227 TI - Glycosyltransferase probes. PMID- 2516230 TI - [The effect of the cultivation conditions on lectin production by representative bacteria in the genus Bacillus]. AB - Dynamics of the lectin activity accumulation in the culture liquid was studied through the example of certain representatives of spore-forming aerobic bacteria in the process of their growth. The environmental factors (the temperature, pH value, the presence of definite carbohydrates in the medium) were investigated for their effect on the biosynthesis of extracellular lectins by producers. Based on these studies it was possible to establish optimal conditions of cultivation and to obtain the high specific lectin activity of the culture liquid for each strain. PMID- 2516231 TI - [The effect of specific inducers on the biosynthesis of lytic enzymes by a strain of Streptomyces recifensis var. lyticus]. AB - The effect of specific inductors at different stages of Streptomyces recifensis var. lyticus 2435 cultivation was studied. It is shown that introduction of killed bacterial cells into inoculum not only influences the level of accumulation of lytic enzymes by the strain S. recifensis var. lyticus 2435 but also determines the qualitative composition of the synthesized complex. The yield of bacteriological glycosidases grows with introduction of the Micrococcus lysodeikticus cells into the inoculum or of dissolvable chitin into the enzymic medium. The possibility to preserve the initial level of the lytic activity in the producer during re-inoculations by introducing the Bacillus subtilis cells into the cultivation medium has been studied. PMID- 2516228 TI - Characteristics of macrophage activation by gamma interferon for tumor cytotoxicity in peritoneal macrophages and macrophage cell line J774.1. AB - We investigated the characteristics of macrophage-mediated tumor cytotoxicity (MTC) against Meth A target, H2O2 generation and release of effector molecule(s) for MTC, by comparing with those of peritoneal macrophages (PMP) and macrophage cell line J774.1 during stimulation with recombinant gamma interferon (IFN gamma). In PMP, MTC was demonstrated when they were stimulated with IFN-gamma for 12 hr (short-term stimulation) and was abrogated when they were stimulated for 48 hr (long-term stimulation). Enhanced H2O2 generation was observed in PMP activated by long-term stimulation followed by triggering with PMA, but not observed by triggering with Meth A cells. By contrast, whereas non-treated J774.1 cells have already attained a definite level of MTC, a higher MTC level was demonstrated both by short- and long-term stimulations. Conversely, J774.1 cells were unable to generate H2O2 at any stage of IFN-gamma stimulation followed by triggering both with PMA or Meth A cells. The time course for stimulation of PMP by IFN-gamma for release of cytotoxic factor (CF) corresponded to that for MTC by PMP, and activities of the CF released from both activated PMP and J774.1 cells also closely corresponded to those of MTC by both cells. The serological and physicochemical characteristics of CF released from both activated PMP and J774.1 cells were determined to be closely related to those of tumor necrosis factor (TNF). These results indicate that in contrast to PMP, the J774.1 cell line is free from suppression stage for MTC and CF release during stimulation with IFN gamma. The results suggest that TNF-like CF plays a crucial role for MTC against Meth A target, and that H2O2 is irrelevant for MTC against Meth A. PMID- 2516233 TI - [Heterogeneity of the population of Escherichia coli thr- by assimilation of 3H threonine]. AB - The incorporation and spatial localisation of [3H]threonine in the cells of Escherichia coli RP 477 (leu-his-thr-B1-) were studied using the techniques of radiometry and adsorption electron-microscopic autoradiography with additional time-lapse microfilming to follow up the growth of the population. The strain was shown to be heterogeneous in its metabolic, reproductive and morphological (cell diameter) characteristics; a generative cluster was revealed. Indirect data indicated that the so-called "resting" cells were functionally active. PMID- 2516232 TI - [Isolation of yeast nuclei and characteristics of their lipid composition]. AB - Intact nuclei of a high purity degree were isolated from Candida utilis protoplasts, and their lipid content and composition were determined. PMID- 2516235 TI - [Judicial investigations related to occupational diseases: what is the cost/benefit ratio?]. PMID- 2516236 TI - [Ketoacidosis in long-term therapy with insulin pumps. Incidence, causes, circumstances]. AB - 110 type I diabetic patients were treated with CSII from 1980 to the end of 1988 on a routine basis over a total of 337 patient years and a mean of 36.7 months per patient. 14 cases of severe diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) were seen in 14 patients representing an accumulated incidence of one episode of DKA per 209 patients months. DKA occurred on an average of 25 months after start of CSII therapy. The main causes of DKA were undetected leakage of the infusion system in nine, infection in three and mismanagement of the pump in two cases. Technical or electronic failures could be excluded in each case. The lack of checking urine for ketones, the wrong feeling of safety after long-term successful pump treatment, and a concomitant psychological stress situation favoured the misjudgement of the clinical symptoms of ketosis and the delay of hospital admission. PMID- 2516237 TI - [Hypothalamic amenorrhea. Different patterns in the pulsatile secretion of LH during 24 hours and different responses to the stimulation test with GnRH]. AB - In 12 patients with hypothalamic amenorrhea and in 5 normal women, plasma gonadotropins (LH and FSH) were assayed before and 20, 30, 60, and 120 minutes after stimulation with 10 mcg GnRH i.v. and 24 hours after stimulation with 100 mcg GnRH i.v. In four patients and in controls the pulsatile secretion of LH was evaluated by blood sampling at 15 minute intervals for the 24-hour period. All patients showed different increases in LH after administration of 10 mcg and 100 mcg at 60 and 120 minutes. In two patients, with decreased LH pulse frequency, the gonadotropin increase is dose-dependent in respect to GnRH. In the other two, with normal LH pulse frequency, no difference was shown. In conclusion, this study suggests that the mechanism responsible for amenorrhea is due to reduced frequency of pulsatile GnRH secretion. However, in some patients LH pulse frequency was within the normal range. The double GnRH test (10 or 100 mcg) may be useful in distinguishing these different forms of amenorrhea. PMID- 2516234 TI - [Degradation of alkylsulfates by a Pseudomonas aeruginosa culture immobilized on a polyvinyl alcohol fiber]. AB - Pseudomonas aeruginosa cells capable of destroying alkyl sulfates, anionic surfactants, were immobilised on activated polyvinyl alcohol fibres. The immobilised cells could decompose SDS. When the immobilised cells were used repeatedly, their biomass increased but the activity hardly changed. PMID- 2516238 TI - [Hypogonadism in idiopathic hemochromatosis]. AB - We studied the prevalence and the pathogenesis of hypogonadism in 16 male patients affected by idiopathic haemochromatosis. Thirteen patients were untreated, 14 had liver cirrhosis; alcohol intake was actually less than 80 g/die. LH and FSH were measured in the basal state and after iv. bolus of 100 micrograms of synthetic gonadotropin-releasing hormone. Plasma concentrations of testosterone, LH-FSH were determined, respectively, by RIA and LIA. Ten patients complained of loss of libido and potency (Group A): this group, as compared to controls, had significant reductions of testosterone, basal gonadotropins and pituitary responses. Nine of these patients disclosed testicular hypotrophy and low blood testosterone: 8 showed hypogonadotropic hypogonadism with low testosterone and LH-FSH responses, often accompanied by reduced basal concentrations of gonadotropins; one patient had a primitive testicular failure with low testosterone but a high response of LH to the GnRH. The other 6 patients had normal sexual activity (Group B): their testicular volumes and testosterone concentrations were normal, but 2 patients disclosed both LH and FSH hyperresponsiveness to the GnRH, which suggests an early primitive testicular failure. Our data emphasize the high prevalence of hypogonadism in male haemochromatosis subjects and disclose that sexual activity, testicular volume and laboratory results are tightly correlated. Stimulation with GnRH proved that hypothalamic-pituitary dysfunction is by far the most frequent cause of testicular failure in idiopathic haemochromatosis. PMID- 2516241 TI - The effect of oxidants on biomembranes and cellular metabolism. AB - During the reductive process in the tissues, the aerobes generate a number of oxidants. Unless these oxidants are reduced, oxidative damage and cell death would occur. Oxidation of plasma membrane lipids leads to autocatalytic chain reactions which eventually alter the permeability of the cell. The role of oxidative damage in the pathophysiology of diabetic complications and ischemic reperfusion injury of myocardium, especially the changes in the channel activity which may lead to arrhythmia have been studied. Hyperglycemia activates aldose reductase which could efficiently reduce glucose to sorbitol in the presence of NADPH. Since NADPH is also aldose required by glutathione reductase for reducing oxidants, its diversion would lead to membrane lipid oxidation and permeability changes which are probably responsible for diabetic complications such as cataractogenesis, retinopathy, neuropathy etc. Antioxidants such as butylated hydroxy toluene (BHT) and also reductase inhibitors prevent or delay some of these complications. By using patch-clamp technique in isolated frog myocytes, we have shown that hydroxy radicals generated by ferrous sulfate and ascorbate as well as lipid peroxides such as t-butyl hydroperoxide facilitate the entry of Na+ by oxidizing Na+-channels. Increased intracellular Na+ leads to an increase in Na+/Ca2+ exchange. The increased Na+ concentration by itself may produce electrical disturbance which would result in arrhythmia. Increased Ca2+ may affect proteases and may help in the conversion of xanthine dehydrogenase to xanthine oxidase, consequently increased production of super oxide radicals. Increased membrane lipid peroxidation and other oxygen free-radical associated membrane damage in myocytes has been demonstrated. PMID- 2516240 TI - The gene for trypsin inhibitor CMe is regulated in trans by the lys 3a locus in the endosperm of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.). AB - A cDNA encoding trypsin inhibitor CMe from barley endosperm has been cloned and characterized. The longest open reading frame of the cloned cDNA codes for a typical signal peptide of 24 residues followed by a sequence which is identical to the known amino acid sequence of the inhibitor, except for an Ile/Leu substitution at position 59. Southern blot analysis of wheat-barley addition lines has shown that chromosome 3H of barley carries the gene for CMe. This protein is present at less than 2%-3% of the wild-type amount in the mature endosperm of the mutant Riso 1508 with respect to Bomi barley, from which it has been derived, and the corresponding steady state levels of the CMe mRNA are about 1%. One or two copies of the CMe gene (synonym Itc1) per haploid genome have been estimated both in the wild type and in the mutant, and DNA restriction patterns are identical in both stocks, so neither a change in copy number nor a major rearrangement of the structural gene account for the markedly decreased expression. The mutation at the lys 3a locus in Riso 1508 has been previously mapped in chromosome 7 (synonym 5H). A single dose of the wild-type allele at this locus (Lys 3a) restores the expression of gene CMe (allele CMe-1) in chromosome 3H to normal levels. PMID- 2516244 TI - Nurses and student loans. PMID- 2516243 TI - Community White Paper: nurses must make nursing decisions. PMID- 2516246 TI - Ten years of transplantation. PMID- 2516245 TI - Nursing development units: endless journey. PMID- 2516239 TI - A regulatory element within a gene of a ribosomal protein operon of Escherichia coli negatively controls expression by decreasing the translational efficiency. AB - The trmD operon of Escherichia coli consists of the genes for the ribosomal protein (r-protein) S16, a 21 kDa protein (21K) of unknown function, the tRNA(m1G37)methyltransferase (TrmD), and r-protein L19, in this order. Previously we have shown that the steady-state amount of the two r-proteins exceeds that of the 21K and TrmD proteins 12- and 40-fold, respectively, and that this differential expression is solely explained by translational regulation. Here we have constructed translational gene fusions of the trmD operon and lacZ. The expression of a lacZ fusion containing the first 18 codons of the 21K protein gene is 15-fold higher than the expression of fusions containing 49 or 72 codons of the gene. This suggests that sequences between the 18th and the 49th codon may act as a negative element controlling the expression of the 21K protein gene. Evidence is presented which demonstrates that this regulation is achieved by reducing the efficiency of translation. PMID- 2516248 TI - Diabetes mellitus: monitoring the complications. PMID- 2516247 TI - Guidelines for preventing pressure sores. PMID- 2516242 TI - G-proteins of rat liver membranes. Subcellular compartmentation and disposition in the plasma membrane. AB - The distribution of the alpha- and beta-subunits of G-proteins and their disposition in rat liver plasma and intracellular membranes was investigated. Western blotting, using antibodies that recognised the alpha-subunit of the inhibitory and the beta-subunits of most G-proteins, identified 41 and 36 kDa polypeptides respectively in all plasma membrane functional domains, in endosomes as well as in Golgi membranes. Lysosomes were devoid of these subunits. The highest levels of G-protein subunits were found in bile canalicular plasma membranes prepared by density gradient centrifugation followed by free-flow electrophoresis. Separation of membrane proteins into extrinsic and intrinsic components was carried out by extraction of the membranes at pH 11.0 and by partitioning the membranes in Triton X-114/aqueous phases. The results demonstrated that the alpha- and beta-subunits were tightly associated with the hepatic membranes but they could be solubilised by extraction with detergent, e.g. SDS. Prolonged incubation in the presence of GTP analogues also released up to approximately 50% of the alpha-subunit of inhibitory G-proteins from membranes. The beta-subunit was still associated with membranes after alkaline extraction. The results emphasise the strong association of G-protein subunits with liver membranes, and show that these proteins are distributed widely in the plasma membrane and along the endocytic pathways of hepatocytes. PMID- 2516251 TI - Women's health: life lines. PMID- 2516252 TI - Occupational therapist--friend? PMID- 2516250 TI - How to organise a study day. PMID- 2516255 TI - The law and the nurse. PMID- 2516254 TI - Equal opportunities: Women, power and public life. PMID- 2516249 TI - Disciplinary tribunals and employment. PMID- 2516253 TI - Job focus: angling for success. PMID- 2516257 TI - Nursing development units: broadening horizons. PMID- 2516261 TI - The role of men in nursing. PMID- 2516259 TI - The shared training initiative in mental handicap nursing. PMID- 2516256 TI - Moving out. PMID- 2516258 TI - Rheumatoid arthritis: educating the patient in India. PMID- 2516260 TI - Listening and the counselling process. PMID- 2516262 TI - Best foot forward. Interview by Julie Sylvester. PMID- 2516264 TI - Nursing education. Higher education in a college. PMID- 2516267 TI - Prescribing powers for community nurses. II. PMID- 2516263 TI - Nursing education. Project 2000: demonstration. PMID- 2516266 TI - Nursing education. Bursaries for student nurses. PMID- 2516265 TI - Nursing education. The transition to Project 2000 courses. PMID- 2516268 TI - Samaritans: waiting for the call. PMID- 2516270 TI - Music in hospitals: 'it seemed like heaven'. PMID- 2516271 TI - High spirits: Christmas crackers. PMID- 2516269 TI - Paediatric care: special treatment. PMID- 2516273 TI - Blood transfusion--its past and future potential. PMID- 2516274 TI - Spiritual health care and the nurse. PMID- 2516272 TI - Nursing development units: steering a change. PMID- 2516275 TI - Body image: bodily perceptions and their influence on health. PMID- 2516279 TI - Business as usual. PMID- 2516278 TI - Legal notes. PMID- 2516280 TI - Personalising the service. PMID- 2516276 TI - Role models: looking for a better way to work. PMID- 2516277 TI - Ninety years young. PMID- 2516284 TI - Changing the face of community care. PMID- 2516282 TI - Christmas ghost story: the graveyard shift. PMID- 2516283 TI - Health visitors in the RCN. PMID- 2516286 TI - Striving for quality. PMID- 2516287 TI - Management of the patient with acute myocardial infarction. PMID- 2516281 TI - Labour relations: contracts of employment. PMID- 2516285 TI - The role of the continence adviser. PMID- 2516288 TI - Support workers: a soft option? PMID- 2516289 TI - Keeping the body alive. PMID- 2516290 TI - Creating a safer environment for women. PMID- 2516291 TI - Care of the elderly. PMID- 2516292 TI - Care of the elderly. Thoughts on nursing. PMID- 2516294 TI - Care of the elderly. Screening for health. PMID- 2516295 TI - Care of the elderly. Electronic tagging. PMID- 2516300 TI - Histopathologic study of autosomal dominant vitreoretinochoroidopathy. Peripheral annular pigmentary dystrophy of the retina. AB - Autosomal dominant vitreoretinochoroidopathy (ADVIRC), a recently described disease, is clinically characterized by a slowly progressive or stationary circumferential peripheral pigmentary retinopathy with fibrillar condensation of the vitreous. Histopathologic study of an 88-year-old patient with this disease showed disorganization of the peripheral retina with focally atrophic retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Altered pigment epithelial cells surrounded retinal blood vessels and lined the internal limiting membrane. At the equator, a remarkable and possibly unique multifocal loss of photoreceptor cells was seen. An extensive preretinal membrane, consisting of condensed vitreous with cellular debris and layers of Muller cells, was demonstrated by electron microscopic examination and immunohistochemistry. Histologically, this entity has some similarities to and some differences from retinitis pigmentosa. The clinical features are distinctive. PMID- 2516293 TI - Care of the elderly. Tackling ageism. PMID- 2516297 TI - [The 1.320 micron Nd-YAG laser. Experimental study of a new wavelength adapted to neurosurgery]. AB - The authors present a new laser wavelength for neurosurgery: the 1.32 micron Nd YAG laser. Schematically, it combines the advantages of both the 1.06 micron Nd YAG laser and the CO2 laser. As for nervous tissue it has the same physico thermal properties as the CO2 laser: an important absorption and little thermal diffusion. Like the 1.06 Nd-YAG laser, the 1.32 Nd-YAG has very good maneuverability, because its beam is conducted through optical fibers. Experimental studies have been made on rats. They consisted of comparison between the thermal effects and the consequent histological lesions of three lasers: 1.32 micron Nd-YAG, 1.06 micron Nd-YAG, CO2. 145 impacts on the cortex of 45 rats have been studied. Each shot was registered with an infrared camera, measuring the cortex surface temperature around the impact. The signals were digitalized; they allowed us to obtain a numerical image and the profile of temperature for each shot, as well as the development of temperature of each point of the profile. These results have been correlated with the histological data. It appears that for equivalent efficient outputs, the cortical lesions, 8 days after the shots, were similar for the 1.32 Nd-YAG laser and the CO2 laser. For instance, the depth of the coagulation necrosis varied from 200 to 250 microns after CO2 laser impacts (P = 3W; t = 0 05s; Fluence = 5 Joules/cm2), and from 210 to 260 microns after 1.32 Nd-YAG laser impacts (P = 5-14W; t = 0.4s; F = 50-170 J/cm2).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2516299 TI - [The role of the intestine in the pathogenesis and treatment of multiple organ failure]. AB - Infection and sepsis remain major causes of death in medical and surgical services, despite the availability of potent antibiotics, aggressive surgery and close monitoring of patients in intensive-care units. Actually the terminology to define this type of events in multiple organ failure: we considered the role of intestine in its pathogenesis and its management. PMID- 2516301 TI - Electroretinographic findings in human oculocutaneous albinism. AB - Electroretinograms (ERGs) were obtained under dark- and light-adapted conditions from 15 human oculocutaneous albinos and compared with the results from a group of 30 normally pigmented subjects. Amplitude and implicit time measures of the ERG recordings obtained from six autosomal recessive and three autosomal dominant tyrosinase-positive albinos fell within the normal range. The six tyrosinase negative albinos examined also had normal ERGs at low-to-moderate flash luminances. However, at the highest flash luminances, the dark-adapted ERGs of five such subjects were at or just above the normal range in amplitude, and were shorter than normal in implicit time. The dark-adapted luminance-response functions of these subjects were positioned normally on the luminance axis; light adapted functions were shifted slightly to the left of normal. The possibility that anterior parts of the retina responding to light passing through the anterior eyewall may contribute to the ERGs obtained from tyrosinase-negative albinos was examined by recording dark-adapted ERGs with the sclera occluded. Amplitudes were reduced compared with those obtained with the sclera unoccluded, suggesting that responses to transscleral illumination contributed to the ERG in this type of albinism. PMID- 2516296 TI - Association for Care of the Elderly update. PMID- 2516303 TI - [Tumor of the larynx in a child with Recklinghausen's disease]. AB - The rare case of Recklinghausen disease in a 2.5 years old boy was presented. He was admitted to ENT Clinic of Pediatric Institute of Medical Academy in Poznan because of dyspnea and emaciation. He had coffee-with-milk coloured maculae on his skin, especially of hands and trunk. Laryngoscopy revealed the laryngeal tumor, which was excised by use of Kleinsasser equipment. Histopathologic answer was neurofibroma. The follow up proved good health without recurrencies. PMID- 2516305 TI - Intracellular potentials of toad urinary bladder. AB - Short-circuited urinary bladders of Bufo marinus were impaled with microelectrodes. Intracellular potentials in the order of -80 mV were recorded. On inhibition of apical Na entry they hyperpolarized by about 15 mV and the fractional resistance of the apical membrane increased to near 1.0. These patterns are similar to those of other tight Na transporting amphibian epithelia. On two occasions, stable recordings from a single cell were obtained before and after oxytocin. Intracellular potential and fractional resistance of the apical membrane remained constant despite doubling of Na transport and cellular conductance. This finding suggests that oxytocin stimulates conductive pathways in both, apical and basolateral cell membranes of the toad urinary bladder. PMID- 2516298 TI - [Irritable colon syndrome in intolerance to food additives]. AB - The rate of the irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and the follow-up of its symptoms on diet and in therapy with disodium cromoglycate have been studied in a group of patients suffering from mainly extra-digestive symptoms related to food intolerance. Following our observation, we can draw the conclusion that food additives intolerance may be a major factor in the pathogenesis of IBS. PMID- 2516304 TI - [Epilepsy with rolandic paroxysms and migraine, a non-fortuitous association. Results of a controlled study]. AB - The incidence of migraine was studied in 4 groups of patients: patients with centro-temporal epilepsy, patients with absence of epilepsy, patients with partial epilepsy, and non-epileptic patients with a history of cranial trauma. Migraines were present in 62% of the patients with centro-temporal epilepsy, 34% of the patients with absence of epilepsy, 8% of the patients with partial epilepsy and 6% of the patients with cranial trauma. These results suggest that the association of centro-temporal epilepsy and migraine is non-fortuitous as well as, to a lesser degree, absence of epilepsy and migraine. The authors discuss the role of serotonin in the association epilepsy-migraine and suggest that centro-temporal epilepsy might be a feature for the diagnosis of migraine. PMID- 2516302 TI - [The role of radiotherapy in the combined treatment of cancer of the middle ear]. AB - The results of treatment of 26 patients with the middle ear cancer were evaluated. Manifestation of the disease is not specific, so it is often diagnosed only in advanced stages. 16 patients were radically treated, 15 of them by radiotherapy and surgery. They received the dose of 60 Gy in 20-30 fractions of megavoltage therapy, with use of oblique beam technique with wedge filters. 10 patients were irradiated with palliative intention. Estimated 5-years survival in radically treated patients equals 47%. Other reports and own observations advocate combined treatment: surgery and irradiation for cancer of the middle ear. PMID- 2516306 TI - ATP-sensitive K-channels in HIT T15 beta-cells studied by patch-clamp methods, 86Rb efflux and glibenclamide binding. AB - ATP-sensitive K-channels in the cloned beta-cell line HIT T15 were studied by patch-clamp methods; by measurement of 86Rb efflux; and by [3H]glibenclamide binding to isolated membrane preparations. In inside-out patches a 50 pS K channel was found which was blocked by ATP or tolbutamide applied to the intracellular membrane surface. A minimum estimate of about 500 channels per beta cell was obtained by combining whole-cell and single-channel data. The rate of efflux of 86Rb from 86RbCl-loaded HIT cells was markedly increased by intracellular ATP-depletion; 86Rb-efflux was progressively inhibited by increasing concentrations of glibenclamide or tolbutamide. In non-ATP-depleted cells, diazoxide elicited a concentration-dependent stimulation of 86Rb-efflux which was completely blocked by 1 microM glibenclamide. Isolated membranes showed dose-dependent saturable binding of [3H]glibenclamide to both high (Kd = 1.12 nM) and low (Kd = 136 nM) affinity binding sites. We estimate about 5000 high affinity binding sites per cell. [3H]-glibenclamide binding was inhibited by tolbutamide (IC50 = 125 microM) but was not affected by diazoxide. ADP (0.5 or 1.0 mM) markedly reduced binding; other nucleotides tested were ineffective. PMID- 2516308 TI - [Comparison of the effectiveness of different methods of irradiation using metronidazole as a radiation-sensitizing agent in patients with laryngeal cancer. Controlled clinical studies]. AB - Randomized controlled clinical trial has been carried out in the Oncology Center in Warsaw and Medical Academy in Lodz to assess the effectiveness of application of Metronidazole as radiosensitizer of hypoxic cells in patients with squamous cell laryngeal cancer treated by Cobalt60 irradiation in the years 1982-1986. Clinical estimation has been obtained by comparison of the effectiveness of four selected methods of dose fractionation (conventional, dynamic, dynamic with Metronidazole, irradiation twice a day) in which NSD and TDF have been comparable (1950, 116). Metronidazole has been applied intraorally six times for a total treatment with 6 g doses. The tolerance of the drug has not been very good: 72% of patients has nausea and/or vomiting. No other side effects have been observed. Major mucosal reactions appeared in patients in which the dose have been fractionated by non conventional method (large fractions, twice daily irradiation). No statistically significant differences in the immediate effect of the radiotherapy and 3 year survival among the groups of patients treated by investigated methods have been found. PMID- 2516309 TI - [Use of electrons in radiotherapy. 11-year experience of the Cracow Branch of the Center of Oncology]. AB - 11-year experience of the Cracow Branch of the Oncology Center concerning the applicability of electron radiation for the radiotherapy of patients with malignant neoplasms is presented. It has been found that 9% of all patients receiving external radiation required the application of electron beam. On 81% of cases the energy of electrons applied did not exceed 11 MeV, and in 99%-15 MeV. 30% of patients have been irradiated with electrons only the remaining 70% in combination with different kinds of radiation. The electron been has been applied mainly in the group of patients with cancer of the head and neck area, breast cancer, skin and lip cancer and in patients with metastases to the peripheral lymphatic nodes. PMID- 2516310 TI - [Use of the linear-square model for evaluation of the distribution of equivalent doses of electron irradiation]. AB - The differences between physical absorbed dose of the electron radiation and normalized up to the total dose, fractionated by daily dose equal to 2 Gy, corresponding to "equivalent biologic dose isobio Gy 2" have been analysed. The effect of the fraction dose on the distribution of equivalent total dose in relation to the localization of the neoplastic tumor in the irradiated area has been assessed. On account of the calculations it has been found that alike as in the case of photon radiation the application of fractionated doses equal or lower than 2 Gy is more safe for healthy tissues as compared with higher fractionated doses. No distinct differences have been present between the distribution of physical and biological doses for isodoses below 80%. This fact suggests that the choice of the energy of electron radiation should be decided on account of the depth of the neoplastic tumor and the distribution of physical dose--whereas the distribution of biologic isodoses (isobio Gy 2) of electron radiation is of significant importance in the estimation of the tolerance of critical organs situated in the area between skin and the irradiated tumor. PMID- 2516307 TI - The cardioplegic solution HTK: effects on membrane potential, intracellular K+ and Na+ activities in sheep cardiac Purkinje fibres. AB - The effects of the cardioplegic solution HTK on membrane potential (EM) and intracellular K and Na activities (aiK, aiNa) were studied in sheep cardiac Purkinje fibres by means of conventional and ion-selective microelectrodes. HTK contains (mM): Na 15, K 10, Ca 0, Mg 4, histidine 180. (1) In control conditions EM was -74.3 +/- 3.3 mV (n = 25), aiK was 116.4 +/- 4.1 mM (n = 7) and aiNa was 8.2 +/- 1.4 mM (n = 15). (2) Exposure to HTK led to a depolarization to -59.7 +/- 3.6 mV (n = 25) which exceeded by about 5-7 mV that induced in a Tyrode solution of 10 mM K and in a modified HTK solution supplemented by 2 mM Ca (n = 6). (3) Addition of 0.5 mM barium eliminated the difference in the steady-state depolarization. (4) HTK superfusion increased aiK to 120.1 +/- 4.4 mM (n = 7) and decreased aiNa to 3.9 +/- 0.9 mM (n = 15). (5) The decrease in aiNa was insensitive to amiloride (1 mM) and to external alkalization but was slightly increased by addition of 2 mM calcium. (6) When the calcium in Tyrode solution was lowered from 2.0 mM to 0.05 mM, aiNa hardly decreased during subsequent exposure to unmodified HTK and it increased in the presence of 0.1 mM dihydroouabain. We propose the hypothesis (1) that the difference in membrane depolarization between HTK and a 10 mM K-Tyrode is caused by a decrease in K conductance by the HTK solution and (2) that the aiNa decline mainly results from a coupled Ca influx via Na-Ca exchange due to a delayed washout of external calcium. PMID- 2516313 TI - Metabolic activation of carbon tetrachloride by the cervico-vaginal epithelium in rodents. AB - The metabolism and binding of 14C-labelled carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) in the genital tract of female adult or juvenile NMRI-mice and Sprague-Dawley rats (mainly in the pro-oestrous/oestrous stage) and an adult New Zealand rabbit were studied. A marked irreversible binding of radioactivity in the squamous cervico vaginal epithelium of mice given intravenous injections of 14C-CCl4 was revealed by autoradiography of solvent-extracted tissue. The localization of binding in the mouse genital tract incubated with 14C-CCl4 under air was similar to that observed in vivo. Bound radioactivity was also present in the cylindrical epithelium of the rabbit vagina incubated with 14C-CCl4 in vitro. For a comparison, no preferential binding of radiolabelled diethylstilbestrol or ethinylestradiol was observed in the mouse cervico-vaginal epithelium. The level of irreversible binding to PMSG-primed (pregnant mare's serum gonadotrophin) vaginal epithelial 100 x g supernatants of mice and rats incubated with 14C-CCl4 under air was low. Addition of the reducing agent dithionite to the incubations increased the binding in the vaginal epithelium 20-fold. In juvenile mice and rats injected with 14C-CCl4, the levels of metabolites in the epithelium were low, whereas PMSG-primed juvenile rats contained a higher level of metabolites. The results show that the cervico-vaginal epithelium can metabolically activate CCl4 to reactive metabolites and suggest that the metabolism is under endocrine control. PMID- 2516317 TI - Engineering subtilisin BPN' for site-specific proteolysis. AB - A combination of protein engineering and substrate optimization was used to create variants of the serine protease, subtilisin BPN', which efficiently and specifically cleave a designed target sequence in a fusion protein. The broad substrate specificity of wild-type subtilisin BPN' is greatly restricted by substitution of the catalytic histidine-containing of the catalytic histidine 64 with alanine (H64A) so that certain histidine-containing substrates are preferentially hydrolysed (Carter, P., Wells, J.A. Science 237:394-399, 1987). The catalytic efficiency, (kcat/Km), of this H64A variant was increased almost 20 fold by judicious choice of substrate and by installing three additional mutations which increase the activity of wild-type subtilisin. The most favorable substrate sequence identified was introduced as a linker in a fusion protein between a synthetic IgG binding domain of Staphylococcus aureus protein A and Escherichia coli alkaline phosphatase. The fusion protein (affinity purified on an IgG column) was cleaved by the prototype H64A enzyme and its improved variant, efficiently and exclusively at the target site, to liberate an alkaline phosphatase product of the expected size and N-terminal sequence. Several features of H64A variants of subtilisin make them attractive for site-specific proteolysis of fusion proteins: they have exquisite substrate specificity on the N-terminal side of the cleavage site and yet are broadly specific on the C terminal side; they can be produced in large quantities and remain highly active even in the presence of detergents, reductants (modest concentrations), protease inhibitors, at high temperatures, or when specifically immobilized on a solid support. PMID- 2516315 TI - Interactions between Sarcocystis gigantea lectin and toxin-containing fractions in human lymphocyte cultures. AB - Sarcocystis gigantea extract (SGE) was separated by affinity chromatography into one lectin-containing fraction (SGL) that was mitogenic to mononuclear cells (MNC) and another that lacked this lectin activity. The SGL-depleted Sarcocystis extract (SGTF) contained the so-called Sarcotoxin, inducing only a slight increase in MNC proliferation. Furthermore, preincubation of MNC with SGTF for 60 min suppressed the mitogenic capacity of SGL by 60%-90%. The results presented indicate that SGTF interacts with human MNC differently than SGL, particularly by interfering with the mitogenic lectin. These findings suggest that SGL and SGTF may be involved in different immunomechanisms induced by the parasite. PMID- 2516316 TI - Hydrolysis of GTP by the alpha-chain of Gs and other GTP binding proteins. AB - The functions of G proteins--like those of bacterial elongation factor (EF) Tu and the 21 kDa ras proteins (p21ras)--depend upon their abilities to bind and hydrolyze GTP and to assume different conformations in GTP- and GDP-bound states. Similarities in function and amino acid sequence indicate that EF-Tu, p21ras, and G protein alpha-chains evolved from a primordial GTP-binding protein. Proteins in all three families appear to share common mechanisms for GTP-dependent conformational change and hydrolysis of bound GTP. Biochemical and molecular genetic studies of the alpha-chain of Gs (alpha s) point to key regions that are involved in GTP-dependent conformational change and in hydrolysis of GTP. Tumorigenic mutations of alpha s in human pituitary tumors inhibit the protein's GTPase activity and cause constitutive elevation of adenylyl cyclase activity. One such mutation replaces a Gln residue in alpha s that corresponds to Gln-61 of p21ras; mutational replacements of this residue in both proteins inhibit their GTPase activities. A second class of GTPase inhibiting mutations in alpha s occurs in the codon for an Arg residue whose covalent modification by cholera toxin also inhibits GTP hydrolysis by alpha s. This Arg residue is located in a domain of alpha s not represented in EF-Tu or p21ras. We propose that this domain constitutes an intrinsic activator of GTP hydrolysis, and that it performs a function analogous to that performed for EF-Tu by the programmed ribosome and for p21ras by the recently discovered GTPase-activating protein.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2516318 TI - Ras interaction with the GTPase-activating protein (GAP). AB - Biologically active forms of Ras complexed to GTP can bind to the GTPase activating protein (GAP), which has been implicated as possible target of Ras in mammalian cells. In order to study the structural features of Ras required for this interaction, we have evaluated a series of mutant ras proteins for the ability to bind GAP and a series of Ras peptides for the ability to interfere with this interaction. Point mutations in the putative effector region of Ras (residues 32-40) that inhibit biological activity also impair Ras binding to GAP. An apparent exception is the Thr to Ser substitution at residue 35; [Ser-35]Ras binds to GAP as effectively as wild-type Ras even though this mutant is biologically weak in both mammalian and S. cerevisiae cells. In vitro, [Ser 35]Ras can also efficiently stimulate the S. cerevisiae target of Ras, adenylyl cyclase, indicating that other factors may influence Ras/protein interactions in vivo. Peptides having Ras residues 17-44 and 17-32 competed with the binding of Ras to E. coli-expressed GAP with IC50 values of 2.4 and 0.9 microM, respectively, whereas Ras peptide 17-26 was without effect up to 400 microM. A related peptide from the yeast GTP-binding protein YPT1 analogous to Ras peptide 17-32 competed with an IC50 value of 19 microM even though the YPT1 protein itself is unable to bind to GAP. These results suggest that determinants within Ras peptide 17-32 may be important for Ras binding to GAP. PMID- 2516311 TI - Effects of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone associated peptides (GAP) on the release of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and prolactin (PRL) in vivo. AB - Six peptide sequences residing between basic amino acid residues in GAP were tested for effects on the release of FSH, LH and PRL in vivo in ovariectomized, estrogen-progesterone-primed (OEP) rats. Synthetic GAP peptides (1-13, 1-23, 15 23, 25-36, 38-53 and 41-53) were injected intravenously (IV) into conscious OEP rats and plasma levels of FSH, LH and PRL were measured by RIA. The activity of GAP peptides in the control of PRL was further examined in ether-stressed male rats which were injected IV with GAP peptides just prior to a 1-min etherization. GAP(1-13) significantly stimulated FSH release at doses of 1, 10 and 100 micrograms, whereas it stimulated LH release only at the highest dose of 100 micrograms. GAP(1-23) elevated plasma levels of FSH and LH only at a dose of 100 micrograms. The other 4 peptides had no effect on the release of gonadotropins. Of these 6 peptides, only GAP(1-13) partially lowered the plasma levels of PRL at the high dose of 100 micrograms in OEP rats, but it had no effect on the ether induced PRL surge at doses of 10 and 100 micrograms. In conclusion, both GAP(1 13) and GAP(1-23) stimulate FSH and LH release in vivo; these 2 peptides are much less potent in stimulating gonadotropin release than is LHRH. GAP(1-13) exerts a preferential FSH-releasing activity, but its PRL-inhibiting activity is minimal. PMID- 2516319 TI - The toxicity of erythrocytic stroma. PMID- 2516312 TI - Transdermal dual-controlled delivery of contraceptive drugs: formulation development, in vitro and in vivo evaluations, and clinical performance. AB - Several transdermal contraceptive device (TCD) formulations were developed to provide a dual-controlled transdermal delivery of levonorgestrel (LN), a potent progestin, and 17 beta-estradiol (E2), a natural estrogen. Using a sensitive HPLC method, the in vitro release and skin permeation profiles of LN and E2 from various TCD formulations were simultaneously characterized in the hydrodynamically well-calibrated Valia-Chien skin permeation cells and both were found to follow zero-order kinetics. The rates of drug release and skin permeation were observed to vary significantly depending upon some formulation parameters. Six-month stability studies were performed on seven formulations at room and elevated temperatures (37 and 45 degrees C), and two (Formulations 4 and 5) were found to be acceptable, based on drug recovery, release rate, and skin permeation rate data. Judging from the 6-month accelerated stability studies, it is projected these two formulations will have shelf-life of at least 2 years. As a result of development of an efficient manufacturing process, Formulation 4 was selected for further evaluation. One-week primary skin irritation evaluation in 6 rabbits indicated that Formulation 4 is nonirritating, and it was thus selected for Phase I clinical bioavailability/dose proportionality studies in 12 healthy female volunteers of child-bearing age. Results of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic analyses demonstrated that it is capable of achieving and maintaining a steady-state serum level of LN throughout the 3-week treatment period by weekly applications of one or two TCD patches (10 or 20 cm2). A dose proportionality was obtained in the serum drug levels, daily dose delivered, and contraception efficacy. An excellent correlation was obtained for the rates of transdermal delivery determined by the in vitro studies using human cadaver skin, the in vivo studies in rabbits, and the clinical studies in living subjects. PMID- 2516321 TI - On possible different mechanisms subserving the release of arachidonic and di homo-gamma-linolenic acids for the formation of monoenoic and bisenoic prostaglandins in uteri from ovariectomized rats. AB - The uptake of arachidonic acid (AA) and of di-homo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA) and their incorporations into phospholipids (PLs) and into neutral lipids (NLs) of uteri isolated from spayed rats and the effect of inhibiting triglyceride (TG) metabolism with 4-pentenoic acid (4-PEA) on tissue TG levels and the output of prostaglandins (PGs), were explored. Attempts were also made to determine whether the acylation of labelled AA and of labelled DGLA into PLs and TGs is different and to confirm possible correlations between the synthesis of PGE1 and the degradation of TGs. Uterine PLs incorporated significantly less DGLA than AA (P less than 0.05). AA was acylated mainly into the phosphatidylinositol (PI) and into phosphatidylcholine (PC) subfractions of rat uteri, whereas the incorporation of DGLA into these two subfractions was significantly smaller than that of AA. The acylation of labelled DGLA into NL fractions, mainly into triacylglycerol, almost doubled that of labelled AA. The levels of TGs in isolated rat uteri suspended in glucose-free medium during a period of 60 minutes were significantly less than immediately after isolation (P less than 0.001). PGE1 released from uteri into the incubating solution, was significantly higher than that of PGE2. Moreover, the presence of 4-PEA (1.0 mM), added after tissue isolation, prevented the decrement of TGs observed following 60 minutes of incubation and simultaneously diminished significantly (P less than 0.001) the enhanced output of PGE1, without altering that of PGE2. Results presented herein suggest that PLs are not normal precursors for the synthesis of PGE1.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2516320 TI - Pharmacologic protection of perfused rat heart against global ischemia. AB - Using a Langendorff rat heart model, studies were performed on the effects of three drugs in protecting the heart against global ischemia. The drugs used were: (a) MR-256, a prostaglandin oligomeric derivative, which is a calcium chelating agent and at the same time, is an inhibitor of phospholipase A2 activity, (b) chlorpromazine which is not a calcium chelator, but is a calmodulin antagonist and is an inhibitor of phospholipase A2 activity, and (c) BAPTA/AM, a calcium chelating agent, but which is not an inhibitor of phospholipase A2 activity. The perfused heart was exposed to 15 minutes of global ischemia. In control experiments (no drug), the ventricular pressure recovered to 26.4 +/- 6.7% (n = 22) of the original level. With pretreatment of (a) MR-256 (b) chlorpromazine, and (c) BAPTA/AM, maximum recoveries were 0.5 +/- 6.7% (n = 5), 88.7 +/- 8.5% (n = 5), 45.3 +/- 26.6% (n = 5), respectively. MR-256 and chlorpromazine were found to react with free radicals. The modes of action of these three different types of drugs are discussed. PMID- 2516322 TI - Inhibition of platelet aggregation and arachidonate metabolism in platelets by procyanidins. AB - The effects of procyanidins on platelet aggregation and arachidonate metabolism in platelets were studied. Nine procyanidins were used in this investigation. Procyanidins B-2-S, EEC and C-1 significantly induced the inhibition of platelet aggregation, and the potency of inhibition was comparable with aspirin. Procyanidin B-2-S was used as a representative of procyanidins for further studies on the effect on arachidonate metabolism. In arachidonate metabolism by fatty acid cyclooxygenase pathway, B-2-S inhibited TXB2 and HHT formation by intact platelets treated with exogenous arachidonic acid. It also inhibited TXB2 formation measured by a specific radioimmunoassay when the cells were challenged with calcium ionophore A23187. In cell-free system, B-2-S inhibited both TXB2 and 12-HETE bioxynthesis in platelet microsome and cytosol, respectively. The inhibitory effect on thromboxane biosynthesis might explain the inhibitory effect of procyanidins on platelet aggregation. PMID- 2516314 TI - Phenotypic characterization of Theileria parva schizonts by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. AB - Biosynthetically radiolabelled Theileria parva schizonts were purified from bovine lymphoblastoid cells and their proteins were analyzed by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and autoradiography. The protein spot patterns of schizont proteins from three stocks of T. parva parva indicated that the phenotypic diversity among the stocks was minimal, with the Mariakani and Uganda stocks being identical and the Muguga stock showing only a few differences in minor spots. Comparison of the spot patterns of schizonts of three T. parva subspecies showed that T.p. parva and T.p. bovis differed in only one protein and thus could not be reliably distinguished on the basis of their protein differences. However, T.p. lawrencei showed several protein differences and could be distinguished easily from the other subspecies. Differences in schizont-protein spot patterns were also seen when two different cell lines were infected with the same Theileria stabilate, when one cell line was infected with two different stabilates of the same stock and when uncloned and cloned infected cell lines were used. These results suggest the possibility that selection of phenotypically different parasites could occur in vivo or in vitro. PMID- 2516325 TI - Ventilatory responses of dystrophic and control hamsters to naloxone. AB - In this study we determined if endogenous opioid peptides may contribute to the depression of ventilation seen in dystrophic hamsters. Ventilation of control and dystrophic awake hamsters was determined prior to either naloxone (1 mg/kg) or saline administration and then 5, 15 and 30 minutes postinjection. Subsequently, animals were exposed to a hypercapnic challenge (7% CO2 in O2). Control hamsters increased ventilation significantly (p less than 0.01) after naloxone compared to saline treatment. In contrast, dystrophic hamsters showed no difference in ventilation when they received either naloxone or saline. Both groups increased ventilation significantly (p less than 0.05) after hypercapnic challenge, whether they had received naloxone or saline. Although dystrophic hamsters can respond to a ventilatory stimulant (CO2), naloxone did not increase ventilation, possibly indicating that endogenous opioids are not responsible for their depressed ventilation. PMID- 2516323 TI - Effect of GABAergic drugs on motor impairment from ethanol, barbital and lorazepam in rat lines selected for differential sensitivity to ethanol. AB - The effect of GABAergic drugs on the motor-impairing effects of ethanol, barbital, and lorazepam were studied in the ethanol-sensitive ANT (Alcohol Nontolerant) and ethanol-insensitive AT (Alcohol Tolerant) rat lines, selected for differential ethanol-induced motor impairment on the tilting plane. The basic population from which these rat lines were derived, the mixed (M) line, was also included in the study. The ANT rats were more sensitive to the intoxicating effects of ethanol, barbital, and lorazepam than the AT and M rats at the dose ranges tested. Picrotoxin antagonized motor impairment from all three drugs. Flumazenil (Ro 15-1788) antagonized only the effects of lorazepam, and isoniazid did not modify motor impairment induced by any of the three drugs. These results confirm that the selection of AT and ANT lines has not been specific to ethanol, and that it has increased sensitivity to ethanol, barbital, and lorazepam in the ANT rats rather than decreasing it in the AT rats relative to the M rats. The finding that picrotoxin counteracted motor impairment from ethanol, barbital, and lorazepam support the view that the GABAA receptor complex is important in mediating the intoxicating effects of these drugs. These results also suggest that the genetically-determined difference in sensitivity to ethanol between the rat lines involves GABAergic mechanisms, but it remains to be determined whether any part of the GABAA receptor itself has been affected by the selection program. PMID- 2516326 TI - Insulin increases energy expenditure and respiratory quotient in the rat. AB - The effects of insulin on energy expenditure are a matter of dispute. Various authors have reported increases or decreases. Irrespective of their nature, it is not clear whether the effects of insulin on energy expenditure are secondary to insulin-induced hypoglycemia or changes in motor activity. The present study investigated the acute effects of insulin on energy expenditure, energy substrate utilisation, motor activity and blood glucose levels. Four U/kg of fast acting insulin had no effect on any of the metabolic or motor activity measures in spite of producing a 30% reduction in blood glucose levels. In contrast, 8 U/kg of insulin increased energy expenditure and respiratory quotient, with the latter effect indicating increased reliance on carbohydrates as a source of energy. This dose reduced blood glucose levels by 68%, yet had no significant effect on motor activity. Insulin, therefore, enhances thermogenesis and carbohydrate utilisation in a manner that can be dissociated from any effect on motor activity. These effects occur at a high dose and they are not counteracted by even massive hypoglycemia. It, therefore, appears that in terms of energy expenditure insulin may be characterised as catabolic, whereas in terms of substrate utilisation it may be characterised as anabolic. PMID- 2516324 TI - The light-dark cycle modulates the effects of ritanserin on sleep-wakefulness patterns in the rat. AB - The 5-HT2 receptor antagonist ritanserin (0.63 mg/kg IP) produced differential effects on sleep-wakefulness patterns in rats when administered during the light or dark period: an increase in the duration of deep slow wave sleep at the expense of light slow wave sleep, paradoxical sleep and wakefulness when injected during the light period, and no major sleep alteration when given at dark onset. Since circadian variations in serotonin receptor density might modulate the sleep response, we examined the effects of ritanserin on sleep in rats exposed to continuous light for 10 days, and whether 5-HT2 receptors were affected in separate groups of rats exposed to similar conditions. No significant changes in the KD- and Bmax -values of various receptors were found. However, ritanserin produced greater effects in continuous light conditions than when given during the light period in the 12-hr light-dark condition. This suggests a possible role of 5-HT2 receptors in the organization of sleep when the environmental photoperiod is disturbed. PMID- 2516329 TI - Expression of an Anacystis nidulans photolyase gene in Escherichia coli; functional complementation and modified action spectrum of photoreactivation. AB - The Anacystis nidulans photolyase gene inserted in an expression vector plasmid was introduced into Escherichia coli cells and the production of Anacystis photolyase protein was confirmed by reaction with antibodies raised against photolyase purified from A. nidulans cells. The Anacystis photolyase functioned in photoreactivation repair defective E. coli cells. The E. coli transformants exhibited an action spectrum with a maximum around 380 nm similar to that of E. coli photolyase in contrast with the action spectrum of A. nidulans cells which has a maximum at 437 nm. These results indicate that the Anacystis photolyase produced in E. coli cells has enzymatic activity in spite of the apparent lack of its intrinsic 8-hydroxy-5-deazaflavin cofactor. PMID- 2516328 TI - A liquid diet model of chlordiazepoxide dependence in mice. AB - Mice fed chronically (3 to 4 weeks) a liquid diet containing chlordiazepoxide (CDP) became physically dependent on the drug as demonstrated by the occurrence of withdrawal signs precipitated by injection of the benzodiazepine antagonist Ro15-1788 (5 to 25 mg/kg) or by omitting CDP from the diet (spontaneous withdrawal). Very low blood concentrations of CDP, but medium to high levels of the active metabolites N-desmethyl CDP and demoxepam were found during the period of CDP administration. The Ro15-1788-induced withdrawal signs appeared within 1 min after the injection of the antagonist and lasted for at least 10 min. Quantifiable withdrawal signs included tail lift, tremor, impaired movement and handling-induced seizures. Mice undergoing spontaneous withdrawal had milder withdrawal signs such as weight loss, in appetite and suppression of runway and head-dipping activities on day 1 or day 2 of withdrawal. These signs were also present in Ro15-1788-induced withdrawal. A long-lasting rebound increase in runway and head-dipping activities occurred several days after CDP withdrawal. PMID- 2516327 TI - Milacemide, a glycine prodrug, enhances performance of learning tasks in normal and amnestic rodents. AB - The N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor complex appears to play an important role in processes of learning and memory. The presence of a glycine modulatory site at this complex has recently been established and suggests that glycinergic neurotransmission may influence these cognitive functions. Increasing glycine concentrations in the brain by administration of a glycine prodrug, milacemide, is shown here to enhance performance of a shock-motivated passive avoidance task in rats, and to reverse drug-induced amnesia in a spontaneous alternation paradigm in mice. Prevention of the metabolism of milacemide to glycine by pretreatment with MAO-B inhibitors not only prevents the memory-enhancing effects of the drug, but appears to have a deleterious effect on memory formation suggesting an action of the prodrug itself on the brain. These studies indicate a role of glycinergic neurotransmission in memory processes, and support the therapeutic potential of glycinergic drugs in memory impairment. PMID- 2516330 TI - Beta-thioglucose inhibits gold thioglucose lesions in the ventromedial hypothalamus. AB - Gold thioglucose (GTG) has been known to be an obesity causing agent for over 40 years. GTG works by affecting dendrites in the mouse ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) producing a permanent VMH lesion and subsequent hyperphagia and obesity. We have investigated the effect of beta-thioglucose (BTG), a glucose antimetabolite, on GTG-induced lesions in the VMH of mice. Twenty-eight female CF-1 mice were used in this study. Seven micron sections were made of the mouse VMH, mounted on glass slides, and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. A previous report of BTG action on GTG-induced lesions has not supported a competitive inhibition between these two drugs. Our data demonstrate that at 1/2 hour, 6 hours, and 12 hours post BTG, BTG completely inhibited GTG-induced lesions in the VMH. PMID- 2516333 TI - [Neuroendocrinologic study of depressive disorders--with special reference to gonadal functions]. PMID- 2516331 TI - Dietary amino acid imbalance and neurochemical changes in three hypothalamic areas. AB - The impact of feeding imbalanced amino acid diets on monoamine, metabolite and amino acid concentrations was measured in the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH), lateral hypothalamus (LH) and paraventricular nucleus (PVN). After rats were fed either an isoleucine imbalanced diet, a threonine imbalanced diet, or the appropriate basal or corrected control diets, regional differences were found in neurochemical concentrations. Contrary to our expectations, the limiting amino acid was unchanged in the imbalanced groups, tending to be decreased only in the isoleucine imbalanced-diet group in the PVN. This is the first report that the limiting amino acid was not reduced uniformly in the brain after imbalanced amino acid feeding. In the VMH, norepinephrine (NE) was increased by 22% and 63% in the threonine and isoleucine imbalanced-diet groups, respectively. Since the concentration of NE was affected even before the decrease in feeding, both in the VMH, and, as previously reported, in the prepyriform cortex, the NE system may be involved in very early responses to imbalanced amino acid diets. PMID- 2516332 TI - Construction of Enterococcus faecalis pAD1 miniplasmids: identification of a minimal pheromone response regulatory region and evaluation of a novel pheromone dependent growth inhibition. AB - Several pAD1 miniplasmids were constructed that consisted of all or a portion of the pAD1 EcoRI B fragment with pheromone-inducible "E region" lacZ transcriptional fusions. Miniplasmids containing the entire EcoRI B fragment (the "E miniplasmids") were found to regulate LacZ expression normally, indicating that sufficient information is present on this fragment to regulate a pheromone response. These plasmids also encoded normal replication functions. The E miniplasmids were further reduced by deleting a KpnI fragment. These "K miniplasmids" were able to perform most of the functions central to a pheromone response but failed to induce the fused transcripts to levels observed in the parental plasmids. This defect was found to be due to a pheromone-dependent growth inhibition of cells containing the K miniplasmids. Evidence indicated that this inhibition was due to transcriptional readthrough beyond the lacZ gene and into the putative replication region of the plasmid. Possible mechanisms of this inhibition as well as its potential usefulness in further examining the characteristics of the pheromone response are discussed. PMID- 2516337 TI - Wagner's midsummer night's dream. PMID- 2516339 TI - Fantasy and fear in the work of Maurice Sendak. PMID- 2516338 TI - New lamps for old? Reflections from and on Phyllis Greenacre's "Childhood of the Artist". PMID- 2516335 TI - Ambivalence: its relationship to narcissism and superego development. PMID- 2516336 TI - The death of an analyst. PMID- 2516334 TI - Case presentation: Jean. AB - This symposium was devoted to the consideration of Dr. Mary Libbey's treatment of a 22-year-old woman. The unfolding of the analysand's symbiotic attachment to her mother, the devastating sequelae of her having been the stable center of a pathological family that devoted itself to the care of a severely handicapped sibling, and her immersion in unresolved mourning form the center of this richly detailed and carefully reported case study. In addition, four verbatim sessions are reported, one from each year of the first two years of treatment, and two from the third year of treatment. Dr. Epstein's discussion, praising Dr. Libbey's therapeutic skill, makes note of the issues in the patient's family of origin that served to prepare her to feel endangered in the treatment. Dr. Epstein's view is that the analyst has created an analytic situation that, because it is minimally impinging, allows the patient to become increasingly aware of her unmet needs in a way that is tolerable and minimally "destabilizing to the symbiotically based organization of her internal self and object world." In the climate of safety created in the treatment, the patient can begin to complete the work of mourning for her sister, friend, and aunt, a process of mourning that would be impossible in the context of her nuclear family, centered as it is on a mother who cannot tolerate separation. Limit-setting in the treatment is seen to be reassuring to the patient, facilitating as it does the analyst's commitment to maintaining the integrity of the analytic situation. Dr. Schafer's discussion, while in agreement with Dr. Epstein in recognizing the excellence of the presentation and the sensitivity and hard work that had gone into both the treatment and the clinical presentation, included some specific and focused observations about the transference and countertransference situations prevailing in this treatment and also some suggestions for creating a more consistently safe analytic atmosphere for this particular patient and others like her. Dr. Schafer proposes that the therapist acknowledge to herself and accept as well as possible the inevitable feeling of helplessness such patients provoke. In a more concrete vein, he advocates talking in the first person declarative as much as possible, preferring "I don't understand" to the more standard "What do you mean?" or "Why?" The therapist is encouraged to eschew interpreting what the patient says about the therapeutic relationship for a long time, and, further, he suggests not quickly connecting or easily reducing the therapeutic relationship to childhood prototypes.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2516340 TI - The shame of Hamlet and Oedipus. PMID- 2516344 TI - Prevention of cyclosporine-induced nephrotoxicity with pentoxifylline. AB - Although cyclosporine (CSA) is established in the prevention of allograft rejection, its use has been associated with dose-limiting toxicities, most notably to the kidney and liver. To date, the pathogenesis of the acute form of nephrotoxicity is unclear but may be related to inhibition of vasodilatory prostaglandins resulting in vasoconstriction and ischemia. The present study investigated the coadministration of CSA with a unique hemorheologic agent, pentoxifylline (PTX), in the murine model. A total of 48 rats were orally dosed with CSA 25 mg/kg for 10 days with either PTX 45 mg/kg i.p. or saline every 12 hr. Posttreatment renal function, assessed by creatinine (CCR) and inulin (CIN) clearances and renal electrolyte handling, was compared with baseline data and between groups. In an attempt to assess prostaglandin-mediated changes in enteral absorption, oral CSA pharmacokinetics with and without PTX were compared to the pharmacokinetics of similar groups (N = 8) administered i.v. CSA. Mean CIN of rats coadministered CSA and PTX (942 +/- 214 microliters/min/g KW) was similar to control rats 884 +/- 185 microliters/min/g KW); both were significantly greater than CSA alone (537 +/- 211 microliters/min/g KW; p less than .01). Likewise, percent of baseline CCR was significantly reduced in rats treated CSA (61 +/- 24%) compared to controls 113 +/- 41%) and rats coadministered PTX (117 +/- 75%; p less than .05). No differences in percent change from baseline electrolyte handling were observed among groups. Further, no differences in CSA pharmacokinetics with or without PTX were found.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2516341 TI - Outcome of end-stage renal disease in patients with rare causes of renal failure. I. Inherited and metabolic disorders. AB - This study represents the first national multi-center evaluation of treatment for end-stage renal disease outcome in patients with rare metabolic and inherited disorders in the United States. Because of the small number of such patients at single centers only a co-operative study could provide adequate data on enough patients for meaningful conclusions. By co-ordinating such data, the Network Forum provides a model for the newly organized U.S. Renal Data System and demonstrates the potential for useful special studies in the future. It is clear from these data that despite the systemic nature of these illnesses, treatment for ESRD can be applied to achieve excellent survival rates. PMID- 2516345 TI - [The use of total parenteral nutrition in the treatment of patients with HIV infection]. PMID- 2516343 TI - Pronounced increases in brain levels of calcitonin gene-related peptide after kainic acid induced seizures. AB - Changes in immunoreactivity of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) were investigated in the brains of rats subsequently to seizures induced by intraperitoneal injection of kainic acid (10 mg/kg, i.p.). Increased levels of the neuropeptide were observed in the frontal cortex (increase of 1300% of control value), striatum (900%), dorsal hippocampus (400%) and amygdala/pyriform cortex (135%) three days after injection of the neurotoxin. Intravenous infusion of mannitol (1.5 g/kg, under thiopental anesthesia) which prevents seizures and post-seizure brain damage suppressed the changes in CGRP-like immunoreactivity. Injection of pentylenetetrazol causing generalized motor seizures resulted in no change of CGRP-immunoreactivity after three days. The pronounced but reversible increases of brain CGRP levels suggest a strong but short-lasting activation of the peptide system. The failure of pentylenetetrazol to produce a similar effect and the protective action of mannitol suggest that sustained seizures and/or post seizure brain damage may be required to produce the rise in peptide levels. PMID- 2516347 TI - [Prolactin response to acute administration of growth hormone releasing hormone in patients with uremia]. AB - The Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone (GH-RH) constitutes the most potent and specific stimulus for Growth Hormone secretion. Nevertheless, in some pathologic situations a Prolactin (PRL) response to GH-RH stimulus is also observed. In order to evaluate the possible effect of GH-RH over seric levels of PRL in uremic patients we carried out a study in a group of ten male patients on hemodialysis (HD), who were given an acute stimulus of GH-RH (an IV 50 mcg. bolus) immediately before and after the HD session, with blood extractions at times -15, 0, 15, 30, 45, 60, and 90 minutes for PRL determinations. The same procedure was carried out in 8 healthy controls. Basal PRL levels in the HD group (14 +/- 3.2 micrograms/L) were significantly greater (p less than 0.01) than control group (3.8 +/- 1.4 micrograms/L). There was no PRL response to GH-RH either in uremic patients before or after HD or in healthy controls. Our results show that there is a significant increase in PRL levels in uremic patients both before and after dialysis with a GH-RH response comparable to healthy subjects. PMID- 2516348 TI - [Diverticulum of the right ventricle]. AB - We report the case of a 38-year-old woman who underwent cardiac catheterization because of cyanosis from birth. This study revealed a right ventricular cavity hypoplasia, an atrial septal defect, and a diverticulum originated from the free right ventricular wall. Ventricular diverticuli, especially those in the right ventricle, are very rare malformations, usually associated with other cardiac defects. The right ventricular diverticulum is generally non-symptomatic, diagnosed by chance, and does not usually require surgical treatment. PMID- 2516342 TI - [Use of CO2 laser in the treatment of condylomata acuminata of the vulva in women]. AB - CO2 laser was used in the treatment of 35 women with vulvar condylomata acuminata. The mean age of the patients was 31.6 years. Isolated lesions were removed as well as extensive conglomerates involving the whole vulva and clitoris and anal region. Small condylomata were evaporated. Large ones were cut off at the base and additionally evaporated. After one laser application cure was obtained in 87.5% of cases, while after repeated procedure 93.8% of the patients were cured. The tolerance of laser procedures was good in all cases. Healing was rapid, no scars and hyperpigmentation were noted. The possibility of application of laser in pregnant women is another advantage of this method. PMID- 2516349 TI - Growth hormone and prolactin response to growth hormone-releasing in anorexia nervosa. AB - Anorexia nervosa (AN) is associated with several endocrine disorders. In order to investigate the role of these alterations, growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) was administered in a group of 9 AN patients and in 9 healthy normal weight women as control. Growth hormone (GH) and prolactin (PRL) levels were evaluated in both groups after GHRH and saline solution administration. In the AN group, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), thyrotropin (TSH) and cortisol serum levels were evaluated during GHRH administration; somatomedin-C (Sm-C) basal levels were also determined. In both groups, GHRH induced a prompt GH increase, which was significantly higher in AN patients (55.3 +/- 2.9 ng/ml, mean +/- SE) than in normal subjects (9.8 +/- 2.6 ng/ml: p less than 0.01). A significant positive correlation between mean GH basal values and GH peak after GHRH was observed only in the control group (R = 0.82, p less than 0.01). No significant relationship between GH mean peak and body mass index (BMI) or Sm-C, estradiol (E2) and glucose serum levels was found in AN patients. However, a positive significant correlation with triiodothyronine (T3) basal values was observed in this group (R = 0.80, p less than 0.01). Both groups showed no variation in PRL serum levels after GHRH infusion. Our data suggest the presence of a central derangement in hypothalamic control of pituitary function in patients with AN, which is not necessarily due to weight loss alone. PMID- 2516351 TI - Neoadjuvant chemotherapy in the conservative management of breast cancer: a study of 252 patients. PMID- 2516354 TI - Antigenicity and specificity of selected glycolipid fractions from Mycobacterium tuberculosis. AB - Antigenicity of Mycobacterium tuberculosis glycolipids polyphthienoyl trehalose (PPTR), phenolic glycolipid (PGL-Tb1), tetraacyl trehalose-2'-sulphate (SL-I) and diacyl trehalose-2'-sulphate (SL-IV) was examined in rabbits. PPTR did not induce production of IgG antibodies in rabbits, while PGL-Tb1, SL-I and SL-IV glycolipids were efficient in this respect. Immune sera raised in rabbits immunoreacted exclusively with the corresponding antigens, which indicated that they were remarkably specific. Specificity of the immune sera was further examined using crude extracts of representative strains of 39 mycobacterial species, and the data showed that these immune sera reacted only with extracts of M. tuberculosis and M. africanum. An antiserum raised against whole cells of M. leprae immunoreacted with the purified SL-IV antigen from tubercle bacilli. PMID- 2516357 TI - [Surgery of Zencker's diverticulum]. PMID- 2516358 TI - [Plasmapheresis]. PMID- 2516353 TI - Carbonic anhydrase activity in Madin Darby canine kidney cells. Evidence for intercalated cell properties. AB - Madin Darby canine kidney (MDCK) renal epithelial cell cultures have been investigated with respect to their potency to express carbonic anhydrase activity using histochemical methods. Acetazolamide inhibitable carbonic anhydrase activity could be detected in the cytoplasmic compartment as well as in the apical membrane of cells when grown on solid culture supports. Cells forming domes in MDCK monolayers exhibit the highest histochemically detectable enzyme activity. The attempt to subculture clonal cell lines from MDCK monolayer cultures resulted in the establishment of 5 clones, slightly different with respect to size and shape of cells and their potency to form domes. Scanning electron microscopy ensured the identification of one clone (1A4), which distinctly differed from the others with respect to the apical membrane architecture. Co-localization of peanut agglutinin and carbonic anhydrase activity at the plasma membrane always revealed a combined occurrence of enzyme reactivity and lectin binding in the apical membrane domain. Both, lectin binding and carbonic anhydrase activity were distinctly more intense in plasma membrane regions equipped with microvilli. From the results it is concluded that MDCK cells in tissue culture retained properties of intercalated cells of the nephron collecting duct segment. PMID- 2516346 TI - [Effect of treatment of idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism with an LHRH infusion pump]. AB - Treatment of idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism with an intermittent LHRH infusion pump is more physiologic than the repeated injections of gonadotropin previously used. The results of treating 7 patients, 5 males and 2 females, with this new method are presented. A better FSH and LH response to the LHRH is achieved during treatment which results in a increase in testosterone production but not so of estradiol. The size of the testicles as well as the amount of pubic hair increased in all cases, although fertility was only achieved in one patient, who also showed the best testicular response. We may conclude that treatment with intermittent infusion of LHRH is an important innovation although only partially successful since there are resistant cases and the final outcome is not better than with other methods. PMID- 2516361 TI - Intranasal sodium cromoglycate in post-catarrhal hyperreactive rhinosinusitis: a double-blind placebo controlled trial. AB - A randomized double-blind comparison was made between sodium cromoglycate and a placebo (saline) given as nasal sprays, to control symptoms of post-catarrhal hyperreactive rhinosinusitis. No significant differences were demonstrated between the two test treatments in rhinopharyngeal symptoms, ultrasonic scannings of mucosal thickness in the maxillary sinus, or in the patients' evaluation of rhinitic symptoms. There was an improvement in symptoms in about 50% of the patients in each treatment group. PMID- 2516359 TI - [Treatment of serious iso-immunization to Rhesus factor by plasmapheresis. Report of two cases]. AB - Plasmapheresis was performed in order to clean the excess of antibodies in two patients in whom previous fetal loss had occurred, due to rhesus disease. A reduction in antibodies titles was obtained in both cases. Both patients were delivered by cesarean section after normal full term pregnancies. The babies were followed for two years and revealed no fetal abnormalities. PMID- 2516364 TI - [Nocturnal enteral feeding]. PMID- 2516360 TI - [Use of immunosuppressed mice in an attempt to improve the diagnosis of infection by Trypanosoma cruzi]. AB - In order to demonstrate low level parasitemias of Trypanosoma cruzi, a procedure based on the pharmacologic development of immunosuppression and subsequente innoculation of a test blood specimen was evaluated in mice. Prednisone was effective for the procedure and my be considered for diagnosis and for clinical and laboratorial follow-up of patients with Chagas'disease, submitted to heart transplantation. However, prednisone effectiveness depended from the level of parasitemia. PMID- 2516363 TI - Hyposalivatory drug use, whole stimulated salivary flow, and mouth dryness in older, long-term care residents. AB - Drug-induced hyposalivation has only been anecdotally related to various subjective and objective oral problems. The study described here of 157 residents of a long-term care facility reports data on whole masticatory-stimulated salivary flow rates, use of medications, and perceptions of symptoms associated with hyposalivation, including mouth and eye dryness, tooth sensitivity, chewing satisfaction, and taste and smell acuity. One hundred and twelve residents (71%) were taking one or more drugs that induced hyposalivation. Salivary flow rates were lower in persons who were taking such drugs, and lowest in persons who were taking such drugs for a protracted period. Flow was also lower in females than males, and lower in persons institutionalized for long periods than in persons institutionalized for short periods. Persons who were taking drugs that induce hyposalivation were institutionalized longer, used more medications, had more health problems, were dissatisfied with chewing, and had fewer teeth than persons who were not taking such drugs. Persons who reported having mouth dryness also reported eye dryness and were dissatisfied with their chewing ability. Perceived mouth dryness was not related to salivary flow. PMID- 2516366 TI - [Selective thrombolysis with recombinant tissue type plasminogen activator in combination with prostaglandin E1]. PMID- 2516356 TI - Possible role of natural killer cells in granulomatous inflammation. AB - Natural killer (NK) cell activity is down-regulated in patients with active chronic inflammatory processes, and appears abnormal in sarcoidosis. We investigated NK cell activity in lymph nodes (LN) and spleen cells of C57BL/6 mice by using a 51Cr-release assay against Yac-1 tumor target cells. Hepatic granulomas were caused by infection with 75 cercariae of Schistsoma mansoni ans skin granulomas formed by transplanting isolated liver granulomas into skin of another group of naive mice. Also, anti-NK-1.1 MoAb was injected intraperitoneally into some mice (1 mg IgG/mouse) 1 wk before and weekly for 4 wks after grafting; control mice received saline. Well-organized granulomas appeared in both liver and skin. NK activity (%) was markedly reduce in LN and spleen: (table; see text) The results showed a relationship between granuloma formation and reduction of NK cell activity; both systemically and locally. MoAb did not alter total LN and spleen cell numbers, but reduced NK cell activity by 70-90%. Mean diameter of skin granulomas developed in treated mice was greater (p less than 0.05). NK cells may act as suppressor cells in granulomatous inflammation. PMID- 2516367 TI - [CO2-induced increase in skin circulation and transcutaneous oxygen partial pressure of the top of the foot in patients with intermittent claudication]. PMID- 2516350 TI - Adjuvant chemotherapy for node-negative breast cancer patients. PMID- 2516362 TI - [Thromboses of the subclavian vein and jugular vein and superior vena cava: sonographic diagnosis and control of treatment using tissue-type plasminogen activator therapy]. AB - In the suspected diagnosis "superior influx congestion" sonography performed with the 5 MHz linear scanner is suitable as a non-invasive method for the primary diagnosis of thrombotic occlusions of the vena subclavia and vena jugularis interna, and for follow-up monitoring under thrombolytic therapy. In successful lysis it is possible to verify a sonomorphological and Doppler sonographic sequence of stages from the freshly formed, stratified stage via the high-echo to the low-echo thrombus with formation of lacunae, as well as the recanalisation that is seen at first only at the margins and eventually becomes complete with a flow that varies with the respiration. PMID- 2516372 TI - Analysis of the development of T cells by transferring precursors into cultured fetal thymus with a microinjector. AB - Development of T cells from precursors in the bone marrow or fetal thymus cells was investigated by transferring these cells into deoxyguanosine (dGuo)-treated organ cultured fetal thymus (FTOC) with a microinjector (micro i.t. method). Donor type T cells could be generated after transfer by the micro i.t. method of precursors present both in bone marrow and fetal thymus. The kinetics of the generation of T cells from these precursors was similar to that found in in vivo intra thymus transfer systems. As low as 300 fetal thymus cells were shown to be sufficient to repopulate a dGuo-FTOC. On the other hand, in a hanging drop culture method only precursors from the fetal thymus but not from the bone marrow were effective in repopulating the lobes. The hanging drop method was ineffective in repopulating all lobes, even when higher numbers of fetal thymus cells were applied. Moreover the number of T cells recovered per repopulated lobes was 2 to 3 times lower in the hanging drop system than in the micro i.t. system. It was also observed that the development of T cells was significantly accelerated by adding adherent cells from either the thymus or the spleen. PMID- 2516370 TI - [Retrograde root obturations employing composite and a dentin bonding agent: adaptions of the filling materials and bond strength]. AB - Composite resin containing silver for radiopacity bonds to the dentin surface of a resected and slightly concave root pretreated with a dentin bonding agent (Gluma). The bond strength between composite and apical dentin is about 18 MPa and is not affected by a preceding root canal filling with eugenol-containing sealer. Contamination with saliva or serum of the Gluma-treated dentin surface reduced the bond strength significantly. No reduction in bond strength is observed when the contamination of the surface is performed before Gluma application. Microscopy of the borderline between composite and dentin as well as SEM of the composite surface adjacent to dentin revealed a good adaptation which presumably does not allow bacterial penetration. PMID- 2516371 TI - Learning by the immune system studied in T-cell receptor transgenic mice. PMID- 2516352 TI - Production of urea from arginine in pars recta and collecting duct of the rat kidney. AB - Urea production from arginine was studied in vitro in the kidney of normal rats in tubule suspensions of the four different renal zones (cortex, outer and inner stripe of outer medulla, and inner medulla), and in individual microdissected nephron segments. Tissue was incubated with L-[guanido-14C]-arginine to measure cellular arginase activity. Addition of urease to the incubate freed 14CO2 from the 14C-urea formed by arginase and released from the cells. CO2 was trapped in KOH and counted. These experiments revealed that significant amounts of urea are produced in the outer stripe and in the inner medulla. This intrarenal urea generation takes place mainly in the proximal straight tubule and in the collecting duct, with increasing activity in these two structures from superficial to deep regions of the kidney. Urea is known to play a critical role in the urinary concentrating process. The fact that some urea can be produced in the mammalian kidney, and that the two structures showing this capacity are straight portions of the renal tubular system descending along the corticopapillary axis suggest that this urea production might play a role in the formation and/or maintenance of the medullary urea concentration gradient. PMID- 2516368 TI - TPA versus urokinase in acute pulmonary embolism: results of a randomized controlled trial. PMID- 2516365 TI - [Comparative study of the morphologic behavior of fresh leg and pelvic vein thromboses treated with streptokinase, urokinase and heparin based on phlebography follow-up]. PMID- 2516369 TI - Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy. Results in 316 patients and review of literature. AB - Three hundred and sixteen patients underwent 330 percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomies (PEG) of the Russell or introducer type. Seventy-five percent of the patients had neurological conditions that precluded swallowing. Absolute contraindications included pharyngeal or esophageal obstruction, uncorrectable coagulopathy or inability to perform endoscopy. The mean age of the patients was 75 years. The procedure took an average of 17.5 min to perform. PEG could not be performed in 14 patients (4.1%). Major complications occurred in 2.1% of patients, including 5 who developed peritonitis. No infections occurred at the gastrostomy tube site. The procedure mortality was 0.6%. PEG never required general anesthesia. For patients with long-term swallowing abnormalities, PEG is preferred to nasogastric feeding, operative gastrostomy or parenteral alimentation. PMID- 2516355 TI - The analysis of five carbenicillin-hydrolysing enzymes by electrophoretic methods. AB - Five carbenicillin-hydrolysing enzymes (carbenicillinases, or CARB), PSE-4 (CARB 1), PSE-1 (CARB-2), CARB-3, CARB-4 and CARB-5, and the beta-lactamase PSE-2 were compared by analysing their isoelectric points (pI), electrophoretic mobilities (mR) and titration curves (pH gradient electrophoresis). The pI determined by isoelectric focusing were 4.3 (CARB-4), 5.3 (PSE-4/CARB-1), 5.7 (PSE-1/CARB-2), 5.75 (CARB-3), 6.1 (PSE-2) and 6.35 (CARB-5). Their mR were estimated by zone electrophoresis as congruent to 26 for PSE-1 (CARB-2), CARB-3 and CARB-5, congruent to 30 for PSE-2, congruent to 33 for PSE-4 (CARB-1) and congruent to 61 for CARB-4. Titration curve analyses indicated that (1) PSE-4 (CARB-1), PSE-1 (CARB-2), CARB-3 and CARB-5 are closely related variants differing by a few amino acid substitutions; (2) the qualitative titration curve of CARB-4 is different from those of PSE-4 (CARB-1), PSE-1 (CARB-2), CARB-3 and CARB-5, although their patterns are somewhat similar; and (3) PSE-2 has no structural relationship with any of the other carbenicillin-hydrolysing enzymes or carbenicillinases (CARB) studied. Electrophoretic methods, and in particular titration curve determination combined with other physicochemical and enzymatic data, allowed a rapid comparison of the molecular structures of the beta-lactamases, and hence their classification. PMID- 2516373 TI - Modulation of T-cell differentiation in murine fetal thymus organ cultures. AB - The effects of IL-1, IL-2, and a panel of monoclonal antibodies to thymic stroma and/or thymocytes, on T-cell differentiation in murine fetal thymus organ cultures were followed. Day-14 fetal thymic lobes were cultured for up to 12 days in the presence of IL-1 and/or IL-2 at concentrations of 100 U/ml. Development of all the major subpopulations defined by CD4 and CD8 expression was inhibited by IL-2, however the degree of inhibition was greatest for CD4+CD8- and CD4+CD8+ subsets. IL-1 alone caused only minor shifts in the subpopulations, but when added together with IL-2 the inhibitory effects of IL-2 were markedly enhanced. Analyses of subsets of CD4-CD8- cells demonstrated that the inhibition was most dramatic at the IL-2R positive and subsequent stages of CD4-CD8- differentiation. Interestingly, the putative precursors of IL-2R+CD4-CD8- increased in the presence of IL-2. In preliminary studies the organ culture system was used to examine the effects of a panel of antibodies to thymocytes and/or thymic stromal cells. Out of 14 antibodies tested, MTS 35 and MTS 37 have caused relative increases in the CD8 and CD4 single-positives, respectively. Both antibodies also induced increases in the percentages of CD4-CD8- cells and decreases in the percentages of CD4+CD8+ cells. PMID- 2516376 TI - Thymus histopathology in mice transgenic for c-fos and Ha-ras. PMID- 2516375 TI - Perturbation of T-cell differentiation in lethally irradiated rats reconstituted with syngeneic bone marrow and treated with cyclosporin-A. AB - Lethally irradiated rats reconstituted with syngeneic bone marrow and treated for 40 or 80 days with Cyclosporin A (Cy-A) contract disease mimicking graft-versus host disease about 3 weeks after withdrawal of the drug. We investigated the reconstitution of peripheral blood lymphocytes after this treatment. A selective effect on the regeneration of the CD4+ cells was observed. During Cy-A administration CD4(+)-cell regeneration was almost completely suppressed, but within 3 weeks after withdrawal of the drug such cells reappeared in blood and reached pre-irradiation levels about 6 weeks later. The coincidence of the reappearance of CD4+ cells and the onset of autoimmune disease suggests a causal relation between both events. PMID- 2516377 TI - Prepubertal rat thymus secretes a factor that modulates gonadotropin secretion in cultured rat pituitary cells. AB - Thymus development and function are influenced by endocrine glands. On the other hand, the absence of thymus results in endocrine disturbances. The aim of the present paper is to investigate the direct influence of thymus products on the gonadotropin secretion of rat pituitary cells in culture. In this study, a chromatographic fraction obtained from the acetonic powder of thymus from 14-15 day-old rats (TF) increased the GnRH stimulated LH and FSH secretion from cultured pituitary cells, but had no effect on the basal secretion of these gonadotropins. The addition of incubation medium from thymus (TIM) to cultured pituitary cells further enhanced GnRH stimulated FSH and LH production, the effect was dose related. The GnRH potentiating effect of thymus incubation medium was also present in a chromatographic fraction of around 28 Kd obtained from this medium. These data suggest that the prepubertal thymus contains and secretes a factor that modulates pituitary cells secretion potentiating the Gn-RH effect. PMID- 2516378 TI - [The use of the multicopy plasmid pUC19 for assuring the constitutive expression of gene rplL in Escherichia coli]. AB - A mutation in lac-operator region of pUC19 plasmid causing an increase in beta galactosidase activity was observed. The plasmid was used as a vector to provide high level of expression of the cloned E. coli rplL gene. PMID- 2516379 TI - [Continuous enteral feeding in acute necrotic-hemorrhagic pancreatitis: apropos of 17 cases of jejunostomy]. PMID- 2516382 TI - The effect of ureteral distension on peristalsis. Studies on human and sheep ureters. AB - Isolated sheep and human ureteral preparations (from patients with bilharzia) were subjected in-vitro to graded elongation and the effect on tension and spontaneous peristaltic frequency was assessed. Sheep specimens were obtained from three locations: the intra- and extrarenal portion of the pelvis and distal ureter. Elongation (stretch) induced an increase in spontaneous frequency only in pelvic ureteric specimens, but not in the distal ureter. Basal tension increased exponentially with stretch and most markedly in the distal sheep ureter and also in human preparations. Active tension (amplitude of phasic contractions) increased with stretch in specimens from all locations and reached a maximum at 110-115% elongation. These data suggest that acute distension of the ureter increases frequency of peristaltic waves only in the intrarenal parts of the ureter. Acute obstruction in renal colic can induce hypermotility in terms of increased frequency and force of contraction. PMID- 2516387 TI - [The MTT-dye test for the in vitro vitality control of fresh as opposed to cryopreserved rat pancreatic islets for syngeneic intraportal islet transplantation]. AB - The vitality of freshly isolated and of cryopreserved (-1 degree C/min, 10% DMSO) islets of the rat pancreas was determined by means of the colorimetric MTT-test. The recover rate of vital islet cells amounted to 35% after cryopreservation. The in vitro results were confirmed by the effects after syngeneic intraportal transplantation. The transplantation of freshly isolated islets of Langerhans leads to a permanent normoglycemia in Streptozotocin diabetic rats (n = 5). Cryopreserved islets after transplantation (n = 5) led in contrary to it to no influence of the metabolism. The hepatic insulin content of livers with implanted cryopreserved islets amounted only 43% in face of livers with transplantation of freshly isolated islets. The MTT-assay allows accordingly a prompt judgement of the quality of islet allotransplants and this should make its way in the clinical practice. PMID- 2516383 TI - [Energy support with parenteral nutrition in patients with chronic intestinal inflammation]. AB - Parenteral nutrition (PN) was administered to 24 patients with chronic enteritis. Their mean age was 37 years (range 17 to 69 years). Seventeen times Crohn's disease was involved, five times ulcerative colitis and twice postprandial enteritis. The mean period of PN was 24.6 +/- 12.9 days and its energy value was 7.79 +/- 1.63 MJ/24 hours. Some patients had a restricted oral intake, on average 5 MJ/24 hours. The energy output at rest assessed by indirect calorimetry was 7.62 +/- 1.06 MJ/24 hours. Along with PN the patients had aimed antiinflammatory treatment. In the majority of patients clinical improvement was recorded. The nutritional status improved in 13 patients, was not affected in 9 and in two it deteriorated. The improvement of the nutritional status was not always associated with regression of manifestations of the local enteritis. In particular affections of the rectum in Crohn's disease were resistant to treatment and the position changed after a derivation stoma operation. PMID- 2516384 TI - [Diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperglycemic hyperosmolar nonacidotic syndrome in type I and II diabetics]. AB - The author analyzes 46 hyperglycaemic comatose conditions in diabetics treated at the medical clinic of the Paediatric Faculty, Charles University Prague in 1978 1985. In the group older patients with type II diabetes predominated, where acute decompensation was frequently of the hyperosmolar type without acidosis and it was usually associated with a higher mortality. The cause of the metabolic breakdown was most frequently infection, in type II diabetes, however, an equally important part was played by acute cardiovascular disease. Insulin was administered in small doses by the i.v. route either as a continuous infusion or in fractionated doses. The results of both procedures were comparable only the insulin requirement in the fractionated doses was higher. PMID- 2516380 TI - Silver coating of urinary catheters prevents adherence and growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. AB - Discs of urinary catheter material were exposed to the flow of artificial urine containing cells of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Within 10 h an adherent biofilm composed of the bacteria and of their exopolysaccharide products had developed on the uncoated catheter material. On the silver-coated catheter material no biofilm of Pseudomonas aeruginosa had developed. PMID- 2516388 TI - [Nutritional therapy using tubes and pumps in cancer patients]. AB - The success in the therapy of patients suffering from malignant tumours is among others depending on nutritional treatment. If correctly indicated, the enteral nutrition is more economic, complication reduced, easier to maintain and a biologically optimal alternative method to the parenteral nutrition. Nutritional solutions via tube have to be given continuously or intermittently. For that purpose a pump had been developed meeting certain special requirements. It is reported on the technique of an electronically controlled, partly net independently working pump. PMID- 2516385 TI - Benign breast disease: the cost of the service and the cost to the patient. AB - The patients attending a hospital breast clinic during 1 year have been reviewed to assess the impact and cost of benign conditions. Four of 5 patients referred do not have cancer. The cost to the patient lies predominantly in anxiety related to the possibility of cancer and, to a lesser extent, in cosmetic damage due to multiple biopsies. Benign breast disease is a common problem that creates severe anxiety in many women and a heavy burden on an overstretched National Health Service. A policy of reeducating general practitioners when it is safe not to refer may reduce this problem. Cyst aspiration or needle aspiration cytology may reduce the burden to both the patient and the health service, while desensitization of women's groups and women themselves to the needs for breast self-examination can also reduce this burden. PMID- 2516374 TI - Analysis of the cytotoxic function of the thymocytes generated in a 14-day old mouse fetal thymus organ culture with high dose of IL-2. AB - The target cell specificity of LAK cells generated by addition of rIL-2 to thymic rudiments of 14 day old BALB/C embryo's was compared to the lytic potential of adult BALB/C splenic LAK cells. We used four tumor cell lines as targets, one NK susceptible (YAC-1) and three NK-resistant tumors (C1300, P815 and EL4), which were all killed by splenic LAK cells. It is shown that fetal thymic LAK cells display a lower lytic activity, while EL4 tumor cells are not killed at all. By elimination of the CD8 positive cells from both the adult splenic and the fetal thymic LAK cells, we demonstrate that the fetal thymic LAK activity is mainly exerted by CD4-CD8- cells, whereas part of the cytotoxicity of splenic LAK cells is due to CD8+ cells. PMID- 2516386 TI - [The effect of bronchologic studies on blood gases and hemodynamics in children]. AB - During 78 bronchological examinations in children of all age groups out of 6 centers of children bronchology of the GDR PaO2, PaCO2 and pH were registered, in a part of them additionally pulse, systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Following to the intubation--under ventilation with 100% oxygen or a halothane NO2-oxygen mixture--there was a marked rise of PaO2, which normalized after extubation quickly. After extubation a slight hypoxemia occurred for a short period, a quick rise of PaCO2 and a slight acidosis, too. Besides, the hearth rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure elevated following to the intubation and diminished after extubation. PMID- 2516381 TI - Intraischemic metabolic effects of different disaccharides on protected canine kidneys. AB - The addition of the disaccharides maltose (10, 20, 30 mM) and sucrose (30, 60 mM) to Bretschneider's organ protective HTK solution was evaluated to improve renal protection by an enhanced glycolytic energy supply. Canine kidneys were perfused for 8 min with either HTK solution or HTK solution containing additional disaccharides. After nephrectomy the kidneys were incubated at 25 degrees C and metabolic parameters were determined at regular intervals. Maltose and sucrose are slowly cleaved during renal ischemia but maltose distinctly faster than sucrose. Maltose increases intraischemic ATP supply. However, 30 mM maltose was no better than 10 mM. 60 mM sucrose was about as effective for glycolysis as 10 mM maltose. However, possibly due to fructose release there was an accelerated decrease of adenine nucleotides with sucrose. Although fructose enters glycolysis it seems to have negative side-effects. Hence, probably neither sucrose nor fructose are appropriate for renal substrate supply during ischemia. PMID- 2516390 TI - Cavernous angiomas of the supratentorial compartment. AB - In a retrospective study the clinical data of ten consecutive patients with a cavernous angioma (cavernoma) confined to the supratentorial compartment are presented. The lesions were almost equally distributed among the cerebral cortex with three cavernomas each in the parietal and temporal region and two lesions each being located in the frontal and occipital lobes. The predominant clinical symptoms were either focal or generalized seizures which occurred in 8 patients. One patient became symptomatic due to an intracerebral bleeding from the cavernous angioma, one patient developed a visual field defect from an occipitally localized cavernoma. In 7 patients the neurological status on admission was normal, two patients had signs of a slowly progressing psychosyndroma, one patient had a homonymous hemianopia. The time interval from onset of symptoms to final diagnosis showed a considerable variability ranging from one months to 33 years. Only in half of the patients this interval was less than 6 months. CT-scan was the most important radiological procedure for the diagnosis of these malformations, while MRI may be even more sensible in detecting these lesions in the future. The treatment of choice for these tumorous vascular malformations is microneurosurgical extirpation. This can be accomplished with neglectible morbidity leading to a significant decrease of the preoperative incidence and severity of epileptic seizures. PMID- 2516389 TI - [EEG findings following cerebral surgery]. AB - Departing from the well-known influences exerted on the picture of the cerebral potential by an intracranial space-occupying process, the persisting pathological EEG findings with proved absence of recidivity have been determined in this study. These investigations were based on the postoperative EEG leads of 204 patients with cerebral operations with a determination of the persisting focal disturbances, the general changes and the signs of an increased tendency to attacks and, with respect to possible consequences, a correlation with the morphological criteria-position and size of defect of the cerebral parenchyma, the extent of the cerebral ventricles, the histological dignity-being carried out. PMID- 2516392 TI - New developments in the pathogenesis of pulmonary hypertension in the newborn and child. AB - We have identified several features which appear to play a key role in the pathogenesis of pulmonary vascular disease. Future work will involve exploring the regulation of elastase and elastin synthesis, control of smooth muscle proliferation and production of extracellular matrix. Application of cellular and molecular techniques in vascular research should ultimately lead to new and improved therapeutic approaches. PMID- 2516391 TI - Premature luteinization and ovulation induction using human menopausal gonadotrophin or pure follicle stimulating hormone in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. AB - High ovulation rates can be achieved in women with PCOS, using hMG or FSH to induce ovulation, but the pregnancy rate is lower than expected. To determine whether this might be due to premature luteinization, progesterone levels were measured in the follicular phase of 49 infertile women with PCOS treated with hMG or FSH. The ovulation rate was 88.6% overall and 20 patients conceived. Six pregnancies aborted within four weeks of ovulation. Premature luteinization occurred in 32% of treatment cycles, of which three resulted in conception, compared to 17 conceptions in the 68% of cycles not associated with premature luteinization (p = 0.06). Of the 17 conceptions not associated with premature luteinization, three aborted and 14 proceeded to term; all three conceptions associated with premature luteinization aborted (p = 0.01). These results indicate that premature luteinization in women with PCOS is common, and has a deleterious effect on the rate of conception, and may also be a causal factor in early pregnancy loss. PMID- 2516393 TI - Recent progress in the prevention of viral hepatitis B of childhood in Asian countries. Proceedings of the satellite symposium of the 6th Asian Congress of Pediatrics. Wakayama, Japan, 1-2 April 1988. PMID- 2516394 TI - Teratogenic effects of combined use of anti-kidney serum and E-64 in the rat. AB - The teratogenic effects of rabbit anti-rat-kidney serum (AKS) combined with E-64 (a thiol protease inhibitor) were examined. Wistar rats were injected with 10 or 20 mg/kg of E-64 on days 9 and 10 of gestation, and with a subteratogenic dose (1 ml/kg) of AKS on day 9 or day 10. The most common malformations were hydronephrosis, hydrocephalus, ureteral dilatation, microphthalmia, anophthalmia, and heart defects. When AKS was given on day 9 or 10, the incidence of malformations was about 7% (10 mg/kg group) and 24% (20 mg/kg group). This indicated that the types of malformations are similar to those produced by AKS and E-64, and there is a synergistic effect between AKS and E-64. PMID- 2516395 TI - Two doses of measles mumps rubella (MMR) vaccine. AB - A schedule of two doses of measles mumps rubella vaccine (MMR) at an interval of six weeks was tried in children aged between 12 and 48 months. One hundred percent seroconversion was attained in the measles HI (hemagglutinin inhibition) test, rubella HI test, and mumps ELISA test in both groups of children who received NIH (National Institute of Health, Japan) MMR lot B-30 and Kitasato MMR lot TV-1. The possibility of vaccine failure with one dose of measles vaccine is not negligible [1], and the frequency of vaccine failure increases if three vaccines are combined in the form of MMR. Our observations revealed that a few of the children who had received one dose of MMR remained seronegative with regard to measles HI antibody and rubella HI antibody, and that some of the children remained seronegative with regard to mumps ELISA antibody. A schedule of two doses of MMR was shown to be helpful in reinforcing immunity in children who did not respond satisfactorily to one dose of MMR. We concluded that two doses of MMR are preferable to control measles, mumps and rubella infections. PMID- 2516396 TI - Protection against pertussis by acellular pertussis vaccines (Takeda, Japan): household contact studies in Kawasaki City, Japan. AB - To evaluate the vaccine efficacy of an acellular pertussis vaccine which has been in clinical use in Japan since 1981, a retrospective study was performed by a questionnaire survey of secondary pertussis attacks through family contact in 146 children with pertussis diagnosed in the period from January 1981 through May 1988. In this study, acellular vaccine made by Takeda Pharmaceutical Company, which contains a high level of FHA (filamentous hemagglutinin), a low level of PT (pertussis toxin) and a small amount of agglutinogen, was evaluated. Secondary pertussis attacks through family contact were found in 17 of 29 siblings (58.6%) not immunized with pertussis vaccine. On the other hand, 27 siblings immunized with Takeda's acellular vaccine were exposed to pertussis through family contact and a secondary attack was seen in only one of them (3.7%). The present study revealed an efficacy rate of 93.7% for Takeda's acellular pertussis vaccine. PMID- 2516397 TI - Comparison of acyclovir and vidarabine in immunocompromised children with varicella-zoster virus infection. AB - Intravenous acyclovir and vidarabine were compared in the treatment of varicella zoster virus (VZV) infection in 25 immunocompromised children--13 with acute lymphocytic leukemia, three with other types of cancer, two with immunodeficiency and in seven undergoing prednisolone treatment. Thirteen had varicella and 12 had herpes zoster. Acyclovir was given intravenously to five patients with varicella and to four with herpes zoster at a dose of 5-10 mg/kg every eight hours. Vidarabine was given intravenously to eight patients with varicella and to eight with herpes zoster at a dose of 10 mg/kg/day. In varicella, vidarabine significantly shortened the time from the start of treatment to cessation of new lesion formation compared with acyclovir. However, there was no significant difference in time to complete crusting between the two treatments. In herpes zoster, acyclovir significantly shortened the time from the onset of the skin lesions to complete crusting. A slight raise of GOT in two cases was reported. While acyclovir and vidarabine were equally effective for VZV infection, in herpes zoster acyclovir was more effective. PMID- 2516398 TI - Endomyocardial biopsy in children with Kawasaki disease. AB - To study the histopathology of the myocardium in Kawasaki Disease (KD) with various coronary angiographic findings, right endomyocardial biopsy specimens were evaluated on 20 boys and 16 girls with this disorder. KD with coronary artery lesions (CAL) showed various histopathological abnormalities, such as myocellular hypertrophy in 44%, degeneration in 61%, interstitial fibrosis in 44% and endomyocardial changes in 22%. KD without CAL revealed myocellular hypertrophy in 44%, degeneration in 50%, disarray in 28% and interstitial fibrosis in 6%. As in patients with long-standing KD, more than three years after onset, myocardial changes such as myocellular hypertrophy, disarray and interstitial fibrosis persisted, it is suggested that cardiomyopathy may develop in some patients with KD. PMID- 2516399 TI - Syndrome of generalized (peripheral tissue and pituitary) resistance to thyroid hormone. AB - Generalized resistance to thyroid hormone (GRTH), or Refetoff syndrome, is a disease in which peripheral tissues show resistance to thyroid hormone. Three patients with this disease were investigated. Cases 1 and 2 involved identical 7 year-old female twins and case 3, a 5-year-old girl. All three patients had goiters, and cases 1 and 2 had sensorineural deafness. In all three, the blood levels of T4, free T4, and T3 were high, while the blood levels of TSH were normal or slightly elevated. The responses shown by blood levels of the thyroid hormone and TSH to administration of propylthiouracil and T3 suggest that the regulating mechanism in the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid system was functional. Upon administration of T3, no sign of hyperthyroidism was observed. PMID- 2516400 TI - Ductal left-to-right flow and pulmonary circulation in normal neonates: pulsed Doppler echocardiographic evaluation. AB - To determine whether ductal left-to-right flow affects pulmonary circulation in the neonatal period, ductal patency and flow patterns of the right ventricular outflow tract were studied using Doppler echocardiography in 40 normal neonates. The ductus arteriosus was defined as being patent when diastolic or continuous flow could be detected at the pulmonary end of the ductus. Evaluation of pulmonary circulation was carried out by examining the flow velocity pattern of the right ventricular outflow tract; pulmonary hypertension was considered to be present when the Doppler echocardiogram pattern was triangular with peak velocity in early systole. Neonates were initially examined within nine hours (mean 5.3 hrs) after birth, and two to three times daily thereafter, until no ductal flow could be detected. In all the neonates, the ductus arteriosus was patent at the initial examination. The predicted time of closure of the ductus arteriosus was within seven hours after birth in 5% of the neonates, within 21 hours in 50%, and within 65 hours in 95%. The flow velocity pattern of the right ventricular outflow tract changed from a triangular shape with peak velocity in early systole soon after birth to a dome-like contour with peak velocity in mid-systole: thus the mean ratio of acceleration time to right ventricular ejection time increased with age. In neonates with patent ductus arteriosus at age 13.6-20.7 hours, the mean ratio of acceleration time to right ventricular ejection time was less than in age-matched neonates with closed ductus arteriosus. These results indicate that the ductal left-to-right flow affects the pulmonary circulation. PMID- 2516401 TI - The effect of reconstituted bovine surfactant on pulmonary mechanics in infants with respiratory distress syndrome. AB - We performed sequential measurements of pulmonary mechanics following instillation of reconstituted bovine surfactant (surfactant TA) in 10 neonates with severe respiratory distress syndrome. The respiratory compliance did not increase significantly until six hours after surfactant administration, while the arterial oxygenation and radiographic appearance improved rapidly after surfactant therapy. Six infants developed clinically significant PDA between 24 hours and 48 hours after surfactant therapy, when the compliance decreased temporarily after initial improvement until the PDA was closed pharmacologically. In six cases airway resistance rose transiently following surfactant treatment, whereas PCO2 fell significantly in all cases by six hours after surfactant administration. We recommend that only inspired oxygen concentration should be adjusted without changing the pressure setting of a respirator for at least three hours after surfactant therapy. PMID- 2516402 TI - Can mass screening for neuroblastoma detect patients with low vanillylmandelic acid and high homovanillic acid? PMID- 2516403 TI - Effects of interleukin-2 and interferon-beta treatment on lymphocytes in various tumor-bearing mice. AB - Treatment with a combination of recombinant human interleukin-2 (rHIL-2) and recombinant mouse interferon-beta (rIFN-beta) had a significant antitumor effect against subcutaneous (s.c.) adenocarcinoma-755 and colon-38, but this combination performed no better than rHIL-2 alone against s.c. Lewis lung carcinoma in C57BL/6 mice. Injecting a combination of rHIL-2 and rIFN-beta into mice with adenocarcinoma-755 or colon-38 tumors resulted in a marked increase in L3T4+, Lyt 2+ and asialo GM1+ cells in the peritoneal cavity. On the other hand, the treatment of mice with Lewis lung carcinoma with rHIL-2 and rIFN-beta produced almost no change of each subset in the peritoneal cavity compared to cytokine alone. Thus, sensitive tumors (adenocarcinoma-755 and colon-38) in combined treatment with rHIL-2 and rIFN-beta markedly increased L3T4+, Lyt-2+ and asialo GM1+ cells in the peritoneal cavity, but the insensitive tumor (Lewis lung carcinoma) did not. PMID- 2516404 TI - Monitoring of interferon treatment in patients with renal cell carcinoma and bladder carcinoma by oligo-A synthetase assay and determination of immunological parameters. AB - In order to evaluate whether the 2,5-oligo-A synthetase (OAS) is a reliable marker for monitoring a systemic interferon treatment 7 patients suffering from recurrent superficial carcinoma of the bladder and 4 patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma were monitored during systemic interferon (IFN) treatment. Throughout the study, human recombinant IFN alfa-2c and IFN gamma was used. The 2,5 oligo-A synthetase levels, the natural killer (NK) cell activity and the antibody dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) were determined according to a defined time schedule after intramuscular (i.m.) administration of IFN. Compared to pretherapeutic values, the 2,5 oligo-A synthetase level of peripheral blood mononucleocyte cells increased 4-10 fold in 8 out of 10 patients after the first IFN administration. The NK-cell activity and the ADCC were augmented too. This, however, was only a short term effect. Stimulation of cellular resistance occurred with the same time course as the elevation of the OAS levels. It can therefore be concluded that determination of OAS levels during interferon therapy can replace measurement of other parameters with regard to stimulation of cellular cytotoxicity. PMID- 2516405 TI - [Von Recklinghausen's neurofibromatosis]. AB - Neurofibromatosis is a multisystemic disease in which the multiple possible clinical manifestations may have important diagnostic and prognostic implications; if arterial hypertension coexists, many pathogenic mechanisms justify that the possible secondary etiology must be considered. In this report we review the pathogenic and clinical mechanisms and we point to the diagnostic strategy to reveal anomalies and diseases that, although present, may be occult. PMID- 2516407 TI - Is HPRT-like protein present in Lesch-Nyhan patients? PMID- 2516406 TI - Visualization of membrane-associated folate transport proteins. AB - Transport of Methotrexate (MTX) into cells, via the "reduced folate" transport system, is a critical factor in the effectiveness of the drug in cancer chemotherapy, and defective transport is one of the principal types of resistance to MTX. Probes capable of detecting membrane-associated folate transport proteins (ftp's) in individual cells are potentially useful for identifying structural and functional domains and for investigating mechanisms of substrate translocation. Polyclonal antibody to highly purified ftp from Lactobacillus casei, in conjunction with a second, gold-labeled antibody, has been used to visualize, via electron microscopy, the protein in Triton-treated membrane fragments and in the membrane and cytoplasm of spheroplasts. To visualize ftp in L1210 cells, the substrate-binding site was first labeled covalently with activated fluorescein Methotrexate, and the cells were then treated with anti-fluorescein antibody and the gold-labeled antibody. PMID- 2516408 TI - Degradation of purine nucleosides by mitochondrial enzymes of bovine liver. PMID- 2516409 TI - Guanine nucleotide metabolism in red blood cells: the metabolic basis for GTP depletion in HGPRT and PNP deficiency. PMID- 2516410 TI - Clinico-biochemical and molecular studies of purine nucleoside phosphorylase deficiency. PMID- 2516411 TI - The cell biology of fibroblast cyclooxygenase. AB - We have prepared polyclonal antisera against sheep seminal vesicles cyclooxygenase (COX) which cross-reacted with human COX. We employed this antisera in studies with human dermal fibroblast cultures to immunoprecipitate selectively the COX enzyme. Labeling of the cells with [35S]-methionine, solubilization of cellular COX followed by its immunoprecipitation, SDS-PAGE electrophoresis and fluorography enabled us to determine directly the synthetic rate of COX protein and its modulation by the monokine interleukin-1 (IL-1). The immunoprecipitated [35S]-labeled COX, as judged from SDS-PAGE electrophoresis, has a molecular size of approximately 73,000 daltons, similar to that of native sheep COX and [3H]-acetyl COX. IL-1 stimulation of enhanced COX synthesis was time and dose dependent; as little as 0.03 units/ml of IL-1 produced significant stimulation of [35S]-labeled COX synthesis. Maximum stimulation was 3-10-fold after preincubation of the cells with IL-1 for 12-16 hours. IL-1 treatment of cells in serum-free media yielded parallel dose response curves for stimulation of PGE2 formation, cellular solubilized COX activity and synthesis of newly formed COX, suggesting that this IL-1 effect is mediated solely via induction of new COX protein synthesis. In contrast, IL-1 effect on cells incubated in the presence of fetal calf serum is more complex. Serum synergistically augments the IL-1 effect on PGE2 synthesis in intact cells but concurrently blunts IL-1 induction of COX synthesis, thus suggesting that a factor (or factors) in serum may stimulate PGE2 production by activating cellular phospholipase(s). PMID- 2516412 TI - The molecular, biochemical and human pharmacology of thromboxane A2 in renal disease. PMID- 2516413 TI - Studies of renal eicosanoid synthesis in vivo and in vitro. PMID- 2516414 TI - Prenatal detection of a gene for hereditary amyloidosis. AB - Autosomal dominant amyloidosis of the Indiana/Swiss type (familial amyloidotic polyneuropathy type II) is a late-onset disorder characterized by carpal tunnel syndrome, peripheral neuropathy, vitreous opacities, and cardiomyopathy. The genetic basis of the disease is a variant of plasma prealbumin (transthyretin) which has a serine for isoleucine substitution at amino acid 84 of the 127 residue prealbumin molecule. Using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), we amplified exon 3 of the prealbumin gene in DNA extracted from amniocytes of a fetus at-risk of carrying the serine-84 prealbumin gene. By allele-specific oligonucleotide analysis as well as restriction enzyme analysis of the amplification products it was determined that the fetus was a carrier of the serine-84 variant gene. This finding was confirmed at birth by Southern blot analysis using DNA obtained from cord blood. This is the first report of the prenatal detection of a gene for hereditary amyloidosis. PMID- 2516415 TI - Epidemiology and traumatology of injuries in soccer. AB - A prospective investigation of soccer injuries among 123 players participating at various competition levels was undertaken in a Danish soccer club. The injury incidence during games was highest at division level (18.5/1000 hours) and lowest at series level (11.9/1000 hours), whereas the distribution of the incidences during practice was reversed. The youth section (16 to 18 years) had incidences that could be compared to the highest senior level. The lower extremity was involved in 84% of the injuries, including 34% of overuse injuries. Ankle sprains were most common (36%) and equally found at all levels, whereas half of all overuse injuries were seen among division players. Contact injuries during tackling occurred most often in lower series and youths (45%). Players participating at high levels had only 30% of the injuries during tackling and 54% during running. More than half of 20 knee injuries were caused by tackling. Thirty-five percent of injured players were absent from soccer for more than 1 month; 28% had complaints 12 months after the end of the season with knee injuries the most serious. The study shows that the injury incidence, the pattern of injury, and the traumatology varied between players participating at different levels of soccer competition. PMID- 2516416 TI - A new isotopic assay for purine nucleoside phosphorylase. AB - We have developed a new assay for purine nucleoside phosphorylase which is based on the release of tritium when [2-3H]inosine is used as the substrate and the reaction is coupled with xanthine oxidase. After the reaction is terminated, residual [2-3H]inosine is adsorbed on charcoal and the supernatant solution is assayed for radioactivity by liquid scintillation spectrometry. The new method gave results indistinguishable from those obtained by spectrophotometric determination of uric acid produced by the phosphorylase-xanthine oxidase-coupled reaction or by radioassay of chromatographically isolated [8-14C]hypoxanthine when [8-14C]inosine was used as substrate. The new method is faster than those involving chromatographic isolation of products. In comparison with spectrophotometric methods, it not only requires less manual time, but it also has the advantage that it can be used to study inhibitors whose ultraviolet absorption might interfere with spectrophotometric determination of uric acid. PMID- 2516417 TI - Chemiprobe, a nonradioactive system for labeling nucleic acid. Principles and applications. AB - The Chemiprobe Kit provides a complete system for nonradioactive labeling of DNA probes and their detection in hybridization studies. The system is highly sensitive, permitting the detection of 0.2-0.4 pg DNA which allows detection of a single gene sequence in 0.5-1 microgram of bacterial DNA or in 3-5 micrograms of mammalian DNA. In this paper the authors show that the rRNA genes of M. capricolum can be detected by using only 50 ng/ml of sulfonated probe cloned from another mycoplasma, M. pneumoniae. The Chemiprobe system has been successfully used in the detection of the single copy human gene for glucocerobrosidase from total embryonic DNA by hybridization to a specific sulfonated cDNA. 5 x 10(4) M. pneumoniae cells can be detected either free or mixed with sputum using a standard dot blot technique: mycoplasma cells were lysed by a mucolytic agent, denaturated by NaOH, immobilized on a nylon membrane filter, and then hybridized with pPN4, a plasmid DNA probe specific for M. pneumoniae. The resulting hybrids were then detected by the standard Chemiprobe procedure. A new kit based on the Chemiprobe system has been designed especially for the detection of mycoplasmas in tissue culture. This kit has been tested on 70 random samples collected from tissue culture fluids from 11 different sources. Of these, 42 were found to be contaminated by the Chemiprobe procedure, whereas 41 were found to be contaminated by classical microbiological methods. No false negatives were found. PMID- 2516418 TI - [Factors influencing the effectiveness of preventive treatment of febrile convulsions]. AB - The influence of risk factors predisposing to recurrences was assessed in 103 children with febrile convulsions who were given prophylactic treatment with phenobarbitone, primidone or sodium valproate at adequate doses and whose compliance with treatment was monitored. There was a greater risk of recurrence among girls. Increasing risk was observed with decreasing age at which children suffered the first febrile convulsion. Neither a family history of epilepsy, failure of previous treatment, history of perinatal incidents, focal or prolonged febrile convulsions, recognition of neurological disease nor the number of previous febrile convulsions led to any significantly greater risk in these children. There was an increased tendency for recurrence with increasing interval between the first febrile convulsion and the start of prophylactic treatment. PMID- 2516421 TI - Histopathological study of the major salivary glands in Trypanosoma cruzi infected mice. PMID- 2516419 TI - [Peripheral dysostosis of Brailsford: epiphyseal-metaphyseal acrodysplasia]. PMID- 2516420 TI - [Study of antibodies directed against antigens of the gut epithelium of Schistosoma mansoni using an immunofluorescence reaction. IV. Blocking action on immunity of an IgM monoclonal antibody]. AB - The inhibitory effect on immunity is demonstrated by passive transfer experiments in mice. It can be shown in a secondary infection with Schistosoma mansoni and also in primary infection. The results indicate that blocking activity probably interfers with non specific immunity mechanisms. PMID- 2516422 TI - Facial elephantiasis neurofibromatosa--excision and skin graft. AB - A case of left facial elephantiasis neurofibromatosa was treated with near-total excision and skin graft. Results were favorable. Repositioning of canthal ligaments, preserving part of relatively normal masseter muscle and primary nasal reconstruction with forehead flap were performed. The skin graft over the myxomatous muscle was successful. Troublesome bleeding was avoided or controlled by incising the normal skin, subperiosteal dissection, hypotensive anesthesia, and chromic catgut suture ligature. PMID- 2516423 TI - Enteral feeding--a new beginning. PMID- 2516424 TI - Congenital anterior urethral valves and diverticula--analysis of 50 cases. AB - Fifty patients with anterior urethral valvular obstruction were reviewed. All of them had difficulty in urination, 15 patients had recurrent high fever, 8 patients had features of renal failure, and 5 patients had a reducible swelling at the penoscrotal junction. With voiding cystourethrograph, distension of the proximal urethra was seen in all patients. Diverticula of the urethra could be demonstrated in 15 patients. Eight patients had unilateral, and 2 patients had bilateral vesicoureteral reflux. With intravenous pyelograph, unilateral hydronephrosis was seen in 4 and bilateral hydronephrosis was seen in 19. Excision of the valve and/or diverticulum with primary repair was performed in 29 patients, 28 were cured, 1 died of renal failure 8 years postoperatively. Multi stage procedures were performed in 7 patients. Transurethral fulguration of the valve was performed in 14 patients. Nine patients were cured, secondary operations were needed in 5 patients. PMID- 2516425 TI - The role of counterimmunoelectrophoresis in the identification of antibodies to extractable nuclear antigens. AB - Antibodies to saline-extractable nuclear antigens are hallmarks of autoimmune diseases including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), mixed connective tissue disease, progressive systemic sclerosis and Sjogren's syndrome. In our laboratory, we use counterimmunoelectrophoresis as a screening test and immunodiffusion as a confirmatory test to identify these autoantibodies. This study examines the drawbacks of such an approach. Though 17 out of 19 sera that formed ribonuclease sensitive lines with rabbit thymus extract on counterimmunoelectrophoresis were confirmed to have anti-RNP by immunodiffusion, sera of several different autoantibody specificities were seen to form ribonuclease resistant precipitin lines with the thymus extract on counterimmunoelectrophoresis. Having screened sera to have autoantibodies by counterimmunoelectrophoresis, the identity of some of these autoantibodies were not confirmed because of the poor sensitivity of immunodiffusion or because inappropriate controls had been used for the confirmatory immunodiffusion test. To check these drawbacks and to obviate the need for a confirmatory test, a modification of the current approach is suggested. PMID- 2516426 TI - Isolation of a human cytochrome P-450 reductase cDNA clone and localization of the corresponding gene to chromosome 7q11.2. AB - We have isolated and sequenced cDNA clones that code for rat and human NADPH dependent cytochrome P-450 reductase. The cDNA coding for the human protein was used to analyse, by Southern blot hybridization, DNA isolated from a panel of 8 independent human-rodent somatic cell hybrids. The results indicate that cytochrome P-450 reductase is encoded by a single gene (POR) located on human chromosome 7(pter-q22). Analysis of human metaphase chromosomes by hybridization in situ confirmed the results and refined the localization to 7q11.2. Northern blot hybridization revealed that in human liver the expression of the gene varies by less than 3-fold between different individuals. PMID- 2516427 TI - In vivo 14C isotopic evaluation of amino acid oxidative catabolism in the growing chick. I. Fast respiratory 14CO2 and acetyl-CoA renewal. AB - A single dose of [1-14C] or [U-14C]glycine or L-[1-14C] or [U-14C]valine was injected intraperitoneally into 1- and 3-week-old chicks. Continuous automatic determination of respiratory 14CO2 and determination of 14C in excreta and uric acid were carried out for 8 h. Computer-aided analysis of the kinetics of respiratory 14CO2 demonstrated two exponentially decreasing components, 'fast 14CO2' and slow 14CO2'. Fast 14CO2 production represents the immediate oxidation and/or decarboxylation of the 14C-labeled amino acid. The half-lives differed according to the nature of the 14C-labeled amino acid but not to the age of the chick. The size of the acetyl-CoA pool labeled by [14C]glycine was between 10 and 15 mmol/100 g of chick. Metabolic partition of a circulating plasma free amino acid between oxidation and retention could be quantified by an isotopic index. PMID- 2516428 TI - In vivo 14C isotopic evaluation of amino acid oxidative catabolism in the growing chick. II. Slow respiratory 14CO2 and protein renewal. AB - Analysis of the respiratory 14CO2 of growing chicks injected intraperitoneally with [1-14C] or [U-14C]glycine or valine has shown the presence of a delayed 'slow 14CO2' exponential component. The half-lives, about 3 h, are independent of the nature of the amino acid and of the age (1-3 weeks) of the animal. As supported by investigations in cycloheximide-treated chicks of the oxidative catabolism of glycine, valine and acetate, slow 14CO2 is significantly associated with the degradation of short-lived proteins. PMID- 2516429 TI - Effects of stigmasterol-supplemented diets on fecal neutral sterols and bile acid excretion in rats. AB - To study the effects of dietary stigmasterol on sterol and bile acids metabolism, Wistar rats were fed diets containing various amounts of stigmasterol. Feeding high stigmasterol doses (11, 26 or 52 mg/day) led to increased cholesterol, coprostanol and bile acid output. These effects were dose-dependent, and likely to be related to the inhibitory effect of plant sterols on cholesterol absorption. Moreover, it accounts for the beneficial effect of the stigmasterol on cholesterol lowering. PMID- 2516430 TI - Treatment of chronic non-A non-B hepatitis with human interferon beta: a preliminary study. AB - Twenty-four patients with chronic non-A non-B hepatitis were randomly assigned to receive either human fibroblast interferon (HuIFN-beta) at doses of 1 or 3 million international units (MIU) per day for 4 or 12 weeks (12 patients) or to receive no therapy (12 patients), and were then compared with 5 patients with chronic type B hepatitis who were treated with HuIFN-beta. Elevated serum aminotransferase levels decreased more rapidly during the treatment of chronic non-A non-B hepatitis than of chronic hepatitis B. Variations in serum aminotransferases were not observed in any of the untreated chronic non-A non-B hepatitis patients. In 3 of the 9 patients with chronic non-A non-B hepatitis who responded to HuIFN-beta therapy, serum aminotransferase levels remained normal 15, 21 and 31 months after therapy was discontinued; liver biopsy specimens obtained after therapy from 2 patients showed marked histological improvement. In the six other patients aminotransferase activity levels became again elevated following cessation of interferon therapy. No response to HuIFN-beta was seen in the remaining 3 patients with chronic non-A non-B hepatitis. PMID- 2516431 TI - Evaluation of automated threshold selection methods for accurately sizing microscopic fluorescent cells by image analysis. AB - The accurate measurement of bacterial and protistan cell biomass is necessary for understanding their population and trophic dynamics in nature. Direct measurement of fluorescently stained cells is often the method of choice. The tedium of making such measurements visually on the large numbers of cells required has prompted the use of automatic image analysis for this purpose. Accurate measurements by image analysis require an accurate, reliable method of segmenting the image, that is, distinguishing the brightly fluorescing cells from a dark background. This is commonly done by visually choosing a threshold intensity value which most closely coincides with the outline of the cells as perceived by the operator. Ideally, an automated method based on the cell image characteristics should be used. Since the optical nature of edges in images of light-emitting, microscopic fluorescent objects is different from that of images generated by transmitted or reflected light, it seemed that automatic segmentation of such images may require special considerations. We tested nine automated threshold selection methods using standard fluorescent microspheres ranging in size and fluorescence intensity and fluorochrome-stained samples of cells from cultures of cyanobacteria, flagellates, and ciliates. The methods included several variations based on the maximum intensity gradient of the sphere profile (first derivative), the minimum in the second derivative of the sphere profile, the minimum of the image histogram, and the midpoint intensity. Our results indicated that thresholds determined visually and by first-derivative methods tended to overestimate the threshold, causing an underestimation of microsphere size. The method based on the minimum of the second derivative of the profile yielded the most accurate area estimates for spheres of different sizes and brightnesses and for four of the five cell types tested. A simple model of the optical properties of fluorescing objects and the video acquisition system is described which explains how the second derivative best approximates the position of the edge. PMID- 2516432 TI - Inhibition of Listeria monocytogenes growth by the lactoperoxidase-thiocyanate H2O2 antimicrobial system. AB - The lactoperoxidase-thiocyanate-H2O2 system (LP system), consisting of lactoperoxidase (0.37 U/ml), KSCN (0.3 mM), and H2O2 (0.3 mM), delayed but did not prevent growth of L. monocytogenes Scott A at 5, 10, 20, and 30 degrees C in broth and at 20 degrees C in milk. The net lag periods determined spectrophotometrically varied inversely with temperature and were shorter at 5 and 10 degrees C for cultures from shaken versus from statically grown inocula. Lag periods for cultures from shaken and statically grown inocula, respectively, were 73 and 98 h at 5 degrees C, 22 and 32 h at 10 degrees C, both 8.9 h at 20 degrees C, and both 2.8 h at 30 degrees C. After the lag periods, the maximum specific growth rates were similar for each of the three treatments (complete LP system, H2O2 alone, or control broth) at 5, 10, and 20 degrees C and were 0.06 to 0.08, 0.09 to 0.1, and 0.32 to 0.36/h, respectively. At 20 degrees C in sterile reconstituted skim milk, the LP system restricted growth of Scott A, with log CFU counts per ml at 0, 36, and 68 h being 5.7, 6.4 and 7.9 (versus 5.7, 9.8, and 11.2 for controls). Possible explanations for the decreased lag times observed for cultures from aerobically grown inocula are discussed. PMID- 2516434 TI - Influence of modified-atmosphere storage on the growth of uninjured and heat injured Aeromonas hydrophila. AB - The growth of uninjured and heat-injured Aeromonas hydrophila incubated at 5 degrees C (22 days) and 30 degrees C (31 h) under air, N2, and CO2 was investigated. At 30 degrees C, the growth patterns of cells on brain heart infusion agar incubated under air and N2 were similar, although slight differences in the lengths of the lag phases and the final populations were detected. The lag phases of cells incubated under air and N2 were substantially longer at 5 degrees C than at 30 degrees C. The population of uninjured A. hydrophila incubated at 5 degrees C under air and N2 remained constant, whereas the number of injured cells declined before the exponential growth phase. Growth at 5 degrees C was enhanced when uninjured and heat-injured A. hydrophila were incubated under N2. At 30 degrees C, cells incubated under CO2 exhibited noticeably longer lag phases and lower growth rates than did cells incubated under air and N2. The viable populations of uninjured and heat-injured cells incubated at 5 degrees C under CO2 declined steadily throughout incubation. PMID- 2516433 TI - Physicochemical interaction of Escherichia coli cell envelopes and Bacillus subtilis cell walls with two clays and ability of the composite to immobilize heavy metals from solution. AB - Isolated Escherichia coli K-12 cell envelopes or Bacillus subtilis 168 cell walls were reacted with smectite or kaolinite clay in distilled deionized water (pH 6.0); unbound envelopes or walls were separated by sucrose density gradient centrifugation, and the extent of adsorption was calculated. At saturation, both clays adsorbed approximately 1.0 mg (dry weight) of envelopes or walls per mg (dry weight) of clay. Clays showed a preference for edge-on orientation with both walls and envelopes, which was indicative of an aluminum polynuclear bridging mechanism between the wall or envelope surface and the clay edge. The addition of heavy metals increased the incidence of planar surface orientations, which suggested that multivalent metal cation bridging was coming into play and was of increasing importance. The metal-binding capacity of isolated envelopes, walls, clays, and envelope-clay or wall-clay mixtures was determined by atomic absorption spectroscopy after exposure to aqueous 5.0 mM Ag+, Cu2+, Cd2+, Ni2+, Pb2+, Zn2+, and Cr3+ nitrate salt solutions at pHs determined by the buffering capacity of wall, envelope, clay, or composite system. The order of metal uptake was walls greater than envelopes greater than smectite clay greater than kaolinite clay for the individual components, and walls plus smectite greater than walls plus kaolinite greater than envelopes plus smectite greater than envelopes plus kaolinite for the mixtures. On a dry-weight basis, the envelope clay and wall-clay mixtures bound 20 to 90% less metal than equal amounts of the individual components did.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2516435 TI - Correlation of nitrogen metabolism with biosurfactant production by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. AB - A direct relationship between increased glutamine synthetase activity and enhanced biosurfactant production was found in Pseudomonas aeruginosa grown in nitrate and Proteose Peptone media. A chloramphenicol-tolerant strain showed a twofold increase in biosurfactant production and glutamine synthetase activity. Increased ammonium and glutamine concentrations repressed both phenomena. PMID- 2516436 TI - Preventing rhesus babies: the Liverpool research and follow up. PMID- 2516437 TI - Geriatric paediatrics. PMID- 2516438 TI - [Syringoceles of Cowper's glands in children]. AB - Some tubular or cystic diverticula observed in the ventral wall of the male bulbous urethra that originate from dilatation of Cowper's gland ducts have been termed "syringoceles". They can cause dysuria, hematuria and obstruction. We report 14 syringoceles and 1 true diverticulum from segmental absence of spongious urethra. We review embryology, anatomy and diagnosis in order to determine the best therapeutic approach. We performed endoscopic resection of the distal valve-like border of the diverticulum in 6 patients (42.85%) with good results. The remaining 8 patients, in whom surgery was not indicated, were followed clinically and radiologically. PMID- 2516439 TI - [Intra-diverticular adenocarcinoma of the urethra in women]. AB - We report on a female patient who presented with urethrorrhagia and a palpable urethral mass which was diagnosed as urethral diverticulum, the site of a tumor that proved to be adenocarcinoma of the urethra. The patient underwent radical urethrectomy and pelvic and inguinal lymphadenectomy. Urethral reconstruction was performed using a vesical flap following the technique described by Tanagho. Thereafter, she received 6 courses of M-VAC polychemotherapy. Diverticulum and carcinoma of the female urethra are uncommon. Adenocarcinoma is the most common tumor type encountered in these diverticula. Diagnosis is clinically simple and treatment is by radical surgery and radiotherapy. The foregoing treatment modalities have improved patient survival when the tumor is detected early. This tumor type is particularly aggressive and outcome depends on tumor stage. PMID- 2516440 TI - Effects of a new TRH analogue, YM-14673, on spontaneous motor activity in rats. AB - The effects of a new TRH analogue, YM-14673 (N alpha-[[(S)-4-oxo-2 azetidinyl]carbonyl]-L-histidyl-L-prolinamide dihydrate) on spontaneous motor activity (SMA) were compared with those of TRH in rats. Intraperitoneal, oral and intracerebral administrations of YM-14673 caused a significant and dose-dependent increase in SMA. TRH also showed similar actions as YM-14673 did, except after oral dosing. These actions of YM-14673 were about 20-100 times more potent than those of TRH. Pretreatment with haloperidol, alpha-methyl-p-tyrosine (alpha-MT) and amino-oxyacetic acid (AOAA) but not atropine, inhibited the ability of both YM-14673 and TRH to increase SMA. Focal microinjection into the nucleus accumbens of both YM-14673 and TRH induced about 100 times more potent increases in SMA than similar injections into the dorsal striatum. It is suggested that YM-14673 possesses more potent facilitatory effects on SMA than TRH, and that these appear to be mediated mainly by the mesolimbic dopaminergic system rather than by the nigrostriatal one. Other possible mechanisms are also discussed. PMID- 2516442 TI - Effect of ethanol on interaction of hypoxia and PCO2 levels in rabbits. AB - The following three kinds of hypoxia were imposed on rabbits: the inhalation of two hypoxic gas mixtures (O2 2%-CO2 5%-N2 93% [CO2-added hypoxic] and O2 2%-N2 98% [CO2-free hypoxic]) and asphyxiation by tracheal occlusion. Ethanol (1.5g/kg of body weight) was given intravenously 30 min before the start of the hypoxia. A period up to the onset of apnea, as well as death, was shorter in the ethanol treated group than in the non-treated group. This respiratory depressing effect of ethanol was evident in the hypoxic gas inhalation group. There was no significant difference in the PO2 value when apnea occurred. The animals inhaling the CO2-free hypoxic gas mixture became apneic sooner than those inhaling the CO2 added hypoxic gas mixture. The respiratory depressing interaction between hypoxia and hypocapnia was increased by ethanol. Gasping was observed in about half of the animals after apnea of various lengths. The rate of gasping was affected by neither ethanol nor the way by which hypoxia was induced. PMID- 2516441 TI - A quantitative chemical study of glycosaminoglycans in the articular disc of the bovine temporomandibular joint. AB - Glycosaminoglycans were prepared from the disc by digestion with papain. The disc contained 5% of its dry weight as glycosaminoglycan. Fractionation by ion exchange chromatography, followed by precipitation at varying concentrations of ethanol, together with chemical and enzymatic analyses, showed this glycosaminoglycan to consist of approx. 5% hyaluronic acid, 14% dermatan sulphate, 79% chondroitin sulphate and 2% keratan sulphate. Disaccharides obtained from the chondroitin sulphate were 75% 6-sulphated, 21% 4-sulphated and 4% non-sulphated. Chemical analysis showed a low average degree of sulphation of chondroitin sulphate. Immunohistochemical staining of sagittal sections of the disc showed chondroitin sulphate to be distributed throughout, whereas dermatan sulphate (as proteodermatan sulphate) appeared to be concentrated in the periphery. PMID- 2516444 TI - Tuberculosis and immunology. PMID- 2516445 TI - Long-term experience with 1 per cent topical silver sulphadiazine cream in the management of burn wounds. AB - Three hundred and forty-two patients with 10-50 per cent body surface area burns were studied prospectively over the 5-year period from 1982 to 1986 for the effectiveness of topical 1 per cent silver sulphadiazine. Various parameters were studied including: (i) healing time of deep partial skin thickness burns, (ii) eschar separation time, (iii) conversion rate of deep dermal burns to full skin thickness burns, (iv) burn wound surface bacterial flora and their changing pattern over the years, (v) incidence of invasive sepsis and (vi) overall mortality. There was a remarkable decrease in the time taken for the healing of deep dermal burns, and the conversion rate of deep dermal burns to full skin thickness was significantly reduced. Eschar separation was delayed considerably. There was a total change in the predominent surface micro-organisms from Staph. aureus, which was predominant in 1982, to pseudomonas species and klebsiella in 1986. Moreover, there was the emergence of a new variety of micro-organism within the last 2 years. The incidence of invasive infection and overall mortality was significantly reduced. PMID- 2516443 TI - Effects of the natural and unnatural isomers and degradation products of enprostil on gastric acid secretion and gastrointestinal motility in the rat. AB - The gastric antisecretory and gastrointestinal (GI) motility activity of the natural and unnatural allenic isomers and degradation products of enprostil (methyl(+/-)-7-[(1R*,2R*,3R*)-3-hydroxy-2-[(E)-(3R*)-3-hydroxy-4-phenoxy - 1 butenyl]-5-oxocyclopentyl]-4,5-heptadienoate, RS-84135-004) were studied in the rat. The natural R-allenic isomer of enprostil was the most potent antisecretory compound. The 8-iso-enprostil, enprostil free acid, and the 5-acetylene isomer had somewhat less activity while the other compounds were relatively inactive. The natural and unnatural allenic isomers increased intestinal dye transit with the same rank potency as the gastric antisecretory activity. Enprostil, 8-iso enprostil, prostaglandin A-enprostil and enprostil free acid, all increased intestinal dye transit. PMID- 2516446 TI - Immunomodulation by eicosanoids and anti-inflammatory drugs. PMID- 2516447 TI - DNA gains, losses, and rearrangements in eukaryotes. PMID- 2516448 TI - Pathophysiology of the vasomotor reactivity to hypo- and hypercapnia: role of aging and chronic cerebrovascular disorders. AB - Cerebrovascular CO2 reactivity was studied in 40 healthy subjects (HSs) and 40 patients suffering from cerebrovascular disorders (CVD). Transcranial Doppler (TCD) sonography was used to investigate MCA flow velocity modifications during PaCO2 changes induced by ventilatory rate modifications and closed-circuit air re breathing. HS responses were correlated with age, whereas the roles of either multiple ischemic brain lesions or carotid occlusions were studied in the Pt group. Results were as follows: i) age did not prove to affect vasomotor response to PaCO2 variations; ii) in hypercapnia, patients with multifocal ischemic lesions showed an impaired response in both hemispheres, whereas altered vasoreactivity was unilateral in patients with carotid occlusion (and ipsilateral to the thrombosis); iii) no significant differences were found between HS and Pt responses in hypocapnia. These findings confirm previous reports obtained with the 133 Xenon technique, stressing the usefulness of cerebrovascular reactivity investigation in CVD pts for diagnostic and prognostic purposes. PMID- 2516449 TI - Regulation of muscle AChR alpha subunit gene expression by electrical activity: involvement of protein kinase C and Ca2+. AB - Using primary cultures of chicken myotubes, we investigated the involvement of protein kinase C and Ca2+ in the repression of nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (AChR) biosynthesis by electrical activity. Treatment with the Ca2+ channel blocker verapamil or the Na+ channel blocker tetrodotoxin increased alpha subunit mRNA levels 11.5- to 15-fold. The effect of tetrodotoxin was abolished in the presence of the Ca2+ ionophore A23187. Dantrolene, which blocks Ca2+ efflux from the sarcoplasmic reticulum, caused only a 1.7-fold increase in alpha subunit mRNA levels. Down regulation of protein kinase C by prolonged exposure to the phorbol ester TPA or inhibition of protein kinase C by staurosporine led to 8- to 10-fold increases in alpha subunit mRNA levels. Mature and precursor forms of AChR alpha subunit mRNA were found to vary in parallel throughout all of these treatments, suggesting that protein kinase C and Ca2+ ions may modulate AChR alpha subunit biosynthesis at the transcriptional level. PMID- 2516450 TI - Nonchromogenic hydrolysis of elastase and cathepsin G p-nitroanilide substrates by Pseudomonas aeruginosa elastase. AB - Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which may cause severe lung infections, secretes a metalloelastase that may interfere with the assay of neutrophil elastase and cathepsin G in lung secretions. Using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, we have shown that P. aeruginosa elastase (PsE) cleaves succinyl-Ala3-p-nitroanilide between the first and the second alanine residue, rendering this substrate inefficient for the assay of neutrophil elastase. The cleavage occurs with a kcat/Km of 2.4 X 10(3) M-1 s-1, a value eightfold higher than the kcat/Km for the chromogenic cleavage of succinyl-Ala3-p-nitroanilide by neutrophil elastase. P. aeruginosa elastase also cleaves the elastase substrate succinyl-Ala3-Val-p nitroanilide between the second and the third alanine residue and the cathepsin G substrate succinyl-Ala2-Pro-Phe-p-nitroanilide at the Pro-Phe linkage. By contrast, methoxysuccinyl-Ala2-Pro-Val-p-nitroanilide, another elastase substrate, is not hydrolyzed by the bacterial enzyme. Our data indicate that synthetic substrates should be used with caution to assay elastase and cathepsin G in lung secretions or other biologic fluids in which metalloproteinases may be present. PMID- 2516451 TI - Modulation of anti-Candida activity of human alveolar macrophages by interferon gamma or interleukin-1-alpha. AB - The fungicidal and bactericidal activities of human alveolar macrophages (AM) and peripheral blood monocytes (PBM) from 18 healthy volunteers were evaluated. The results showed that AM were able to phagocytize and kill Candida albicans, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus. However, killing of the bacteria was already complete in 2 h, whereas killing of Candida required 4 to 6 h despite an early phagocytosis of yeast cells. The fungicidal activity of freshly collected AM and PBM was also tested after effector cell exposure to interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), interleukin-1-alpha (IL-1 alpha), endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS), or interleukin 2 (IL-2). It was found that treatment with IFN-gamma, IL-1 alpha, or LPS significantly augmented macrophage and PBM candidacidal activity, whereas the addition of IL-2 was ineffective. We also evaluated killing of C. albicans by AM cultured in vitro for different times. While phagocytosis was apparently unaffected, the candidacidal activity progressively decreased over the in vitro culture period, an effect that was largely reversed by cell exposure to IFN-gamma, IL-1 alpha, or LPS. In an experimental model in which mice infected with an agerminative C. albicans strain (PCA-2) resisted lethal microbial challenge, freshly harvested AM showed increased cytotoxic activity to Aspergillus fumigatus in vitro as well as enhanced IL-1 production. In conclusion, present data confirm the crucial role of AM in the surveillance of bacterial and fungal infections and indicate that treatment of these cells with IFN-gamma or IL-1 alpha is able to enhance their antimicrobial capability. PMID- 2516452 TI - Arachidonate 12-lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase: PGE isomerase are predominant pathways for oxygenation in bovine tracheal epithelial cells. AB - The capacity of bovine tracheal epithelial cells to convert arachidonic acid to oxygenation products with potential biologic activity was studied in homogeneous preparations of isolated cells. Purified epithelial cell suspensions were incubated with radiolabeled arachidonic acid, and oxygenated metabolites were identified using high-pressure liquid chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The cells released predominantly two products during incubation with 0.3 to 150 microM arachidonic acid for 1 to 60 min at 37 degrees C: prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and 12-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (12-HETE). Concentration-response curves for the two products yielded half-maximal effects at 2 and 45 microM arachidonic acid, respectively. Stereochemical analysis by chiral-phase high-pressure liquid chromatography demonstrated that the epithelial 12-HETE consisted exclusively of the 12(S) isomer, providing supporting evidence that it was derived from an arachidonate 12-lipoxygenase. Epithelial cells prelabeled with arachidonic acid and incubated with 5 microM A23187 to stimulate endogenous arachidonic acid metabolism also released two predominant products with the chromatographic properties of PGE2 and 12-HETE. The findings demonstrate that bovine tracheal epithelial cells express both a cyclooxygenase:PGE isomerase and a 12-lipoxygenase pathway and therefore implicate this pathway as a new source of epithelial cell mediators. PMID- 2516453 TI - Release of 15-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (15-HETE) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) by cultured human bronchial epithelial cells. AB - Human bronchial epithelial cells were isolated from macroscopically normal bronchi obtained from lobectomy specimens. Cells were grown in nutrient F12 medium, and after the third or fourth subculture they were stimulated with arachidonic acid, histamine, leukotrienes (LT) C4, D4, or E4, prostaglandin (PG) D2, anti-IgE, acetylcholine, bradykinin, or phorbol myristate acetate (PMA). Neither mast cell mediators (i.e., histamine, LTC4, LTD4, LTE4, or PGD2) nor anti IgE stimulated the release of arachidonic acid metabolites from the epithelial cells. However, arachidonic acid, acetylcholine, bradykinin, and PMA stimulated the release of 15-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (15-HETE) as major and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) as minor products. The maximal release of 15-HETE and PGE2 occurred in 1 h with arachidonic acid stimulation and in 2 h with other stimuli. Arachidonic acid at 30 microM caused the release of 258 +/- 76 ng and 29 +/- 15 ng (n = 12) of 15-HETE and PGE2, respectively, from 10 x 10(6) epithelial cells, whereas acetylcholine, bradykinin, or PMA caused the release of approximately 2- to 10-fold less 15-HETE and PGE2. These results demonstrate that human bronchial epithelial cells selectively generate 15-HETE as the predominant arachidonic acid product and PGE2 as a minor metabolite. The role of bronchial epithelial cells and their mediators in the pathogenesis of bronchial hyperresponsiveness needs further study. PMID- 2516454 TI - Neurofibromatosis in Gothenburg, Sweden. IV. Genetic analyses. AB - The genetic analysis undertaken here shows that the direct (i.e. proband) method for calculating risk figures is not readily applicable to von Recklinghausen neurofibromatosis (NF-1); the selection of available sibling groups for analysis becomes biased in various ways, primarily because of the wide phenotypic variation of the disease. However, indirect methods of analysis confirm that NF-1 shows autosomal dominant inheritance with full penetrance. The existence of an unusually high mutation frequency is also confirmed. In this study it is estimated to be between 4.3 x 10(-5) and 6.5 x 10(-5). However, in contrast to the findings of others, among sporadic cases, both their distribution within sibships and parental ages at delivery did not differ from random distributions. An assessment of the degree of severity of NF-1 and comparisons of the sporadic cases with the familial cases produced no evidence of any clinical somatic differences between the two groups, likewise for psychiatric evaluations of the two groups. Apart from 2 cases with non-NF-1 segmental forms of NF, it was not possible to distinguish alternative forms of NF among the sporadic cases. A pair of monozygotic twins with NF-1 is discussed with reference to the nature and localization of their respective tumours, which are not identical, indicating the influence of factors beyond the mutant NF-1 gene itself on the manifestations of the disease. In a genealogical study involving about 3,000 ancestors of patients from Gothenburg with known NF-1, families with common ancestors were not found, nor was it possible to demonstrate a tendency to clustering in one geographical area or isolated locality. PMID- 2516455 TI - Stroke in an infant prior to the development of manifestations of neurofibromatosis. AB - Although the association of strokes and von Recklinghausen neurofibromatosis (NF 1) in young children is uncommon, it is obviously an important complication of this disorder. The few cases that have been described were reported primarily in the radiological literature. Moreover, most of the children reported were already known to have NF-1 or they had a positive family history for it. We report an infant who, at 7 weeks of age, suffered a stroke with resulting hemiparesis, prior to the development of other manifestations of NF-1. Pediatricians and neurologists need to be aware of this association and of the need for careful follow-up of infants with strokes, with particular attention to signs of neurofibromatosis. PMID- 2516456 TI - Schematic representation of NF-1 clinical features in Spanish. PMID- 2516457 TI - Prevalence of neurofibromatosis with neurologic symptoms in Kashmir, India, in 1986. PMID- 2516458 TI - Summary of patient data from a multidisciplinary neurofibromatosis clinic. AB - The Neurofibromatosis Clinic of the Children's Hospital Medical Center in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a multidisciplinary clinic which provides comprehensive care for persons affected with neurofibromatosis. Data are presented on 78 patients who fulfill the diagnostic criteria for neurofibromatosis-1. The information reported includes patient characteristics, complications and testing results. PMID- 2516459 TI - Hemimegalencephaly, hemifacial hypertrophy and intracranial lipoma: a variant of neurofibromatosis. AB - A case is presented of a 30-year-old, mentally retarded and epileptic patient, with a progressive hemifacial hypertrophy since birth. Repeated biopsies revealed the neurofibromatous nature of her facial lesion. Autopsy also revealed an ipsilateral hemimegalencephaly, as well as meningeal lipomas and osteomas. This combination of lesions represents an unusual variant within the spectrum of neurofibromatosis. PMID- 2516460 TI - Neurofibromatosis in Gothenburg, Sweden. II. Intellectual compromise. AB - The literature is replete with suggestions that patients with neurofibromatosis (NF) in general and von Recklinghausen NF (NF-1) in specific often manifest mild mental retardation. However, intellectual performance in NF-1 has only rarely been the subject of study in a comparatively uniform population; it has been reported mainly in the setting of case histories. In the present material, representing a population-based cohort of Gothenburg, Sweden, it was possible to assess intelligence levels in 71 of the 74 patients originally identified [Samuelsson B, Samuelsson S: Neurofibromatosis 1989;2:6-22]. Thirty-two of the seventy-one patients (45%) showed slight mental retardation and 2 of these were somewhat more retarded than the remainder. This slight mental retardation was usually recognized during the early school years; it did not appear to be progressive. While patients affected with this problem were placed in remedial or special classes in school, these patients generally did not acquire any vocational training. There is reason to suspect that NF-1 itself leads to some impairment of intellectual development in all patients, for the intellectual achievements of those whose intelligence was judged to be within the normal range appeared to fall short of the average. Non of the patients with normal intelligence had passed any academic examination and many showed achievements less than expected based on the achievements of their healthy relatives. In certain families, the NF appeared to be associated with mild mental retardation more than in other families. Mental retardation of a more severe degree, corresponding to special school level or lower, is not typical of NF-1.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2516461 TI - Neurofibromatosis in Gothenburg, Sweden. III. Psychiatric and social aspects. AB - Mental illness affected 23 (33%) of the 69 patients with von Recklinghausen neurofibromatosis (NF-1) who were the primary subjects of this report. Moderately severe or severe mental illness, that is, grade 2 and 3 according to the Comprehensive Psychopathological Rating Scale (CPRS), was found in 15 of the 69 patients (22%). The 23 mentally ill patients did not show any uniform clinical psychiatric syndrome. The most commonly occurring psychiatric diagnoses were depressive syndrome, anxiety state with vegetative dysfunction and organic brain syndrome. There was a significant positive relation between depressive syndrome and organic brain syndrome according to the CPRS rating. Half of the 69 patients complained of mental symptoms in the form of hostile feelings and autonomic disturbances and these were the most frequent psychiatric symptoms; they were also frequent among patients without mental illness. Other common symptoms were sleep difficulties, tiredness, and aches and pains. Among patients with NF-1 there was a significantly positive relation between mental illness and mental retardation, but no significant positive relation between mental illness and physical severity of NF-1. Patients with mental illness also showed a significantly increased frequency of positive neurological findings indicating central nervous manifestations of NF-1. PMID- 2516462 TI - Elevated accumulation of hyaluronate in the tubular bones of osteogenesis imperfecta. AB - The content and composition of glycosaminoglycans in the tubular bones of osteogenesis imperfecta were compared to those in the tubular bones of age matched controls. Chondroitin sulfate was the major glycosaminoglycan (70-80% of total) both in the normal and pathological bones, and its level, based on the tissue wet weight, was slightly less in the pathological bones. The composition of chondroitin sulfate disaccharide units in the pathological samples was different from those of the control; a lower proportion of chondroitin 4-sulfate unit. Hyaluronate accounted for at most 7% of total glycosaminoglycans from the normal bones. The hyaluronate content of the pathological bones was 1.5- to 3 fold higher than that of the controls. Glycosaminoglycans have been shown to participate in the formation of a functional supramolecular complex in extracellular matrices. Therefore, it may be postulated that the abnormalities in glycosaminoglycan composition in the tubular bones of osteogenesis imperfecta is implicated in some clinical aspects of this connective tissue disorder such as the bony fragility. PMID- 2516463 TI - Efficacy and safety of 2% mupirocin ointment in the treatment of primary and secondary skin infections--an open multicentre trial. AB - Staphylococci and beta-haemolytic streptococci are usually responsible for causing common primary and secondary skin infections. Mupirocin (Bactroban, Eismycin; trademarks of Beecham Group plc), a new antibiotic unrelated to any other antibacterial agent and developed for topical use only, shows a high level of activity against these bacteria. In an open multicentre study the efficacy and safety of mupirocin (2% in a polyethylene glycol vehicle) was evaluated in 1,391 general practice patients with superficial skin infections. The most common skin infections treated were pyoderma (eg, impetigo, folliculitis) and secondarily infected skin lesions. Treatment consisted of application of the ointment three times daily for an average of nine days. A total of 1,304 patients were evaluable for post-treatment clinical assessment. At the end of the treatment 961 (73.7 per cent) patients were cured and in 293 (22.5 per cent) patients the symptoms of the infection had markedly improved. In total, 525 bacterial strains were isolated from the wounds of 445 patients, predominantly staphylococci (n = 344) and streptococci (n = 93). Local side effects such as burning, itching and reddening were observed in 39 (2.9 per cent) of 1,357 patients. No evidence of systemic toxicity or abnormal laboratory data was noted. Mupirocin 2% ointment proved to be effective and safe in the treatment of primary and secondary skin infections. PMID- 2516464 TI - Respiratory distress during total parenteral nutrition. AB - We report on a patient who developed fatal respiratory distress two days after starting parenteral feeding for malnutrition complicating Crohn's disease. Post mortem examination revealed pulmonary collapse secondary to mediastinal leak of the infusion fluid due to an undiagnosed erosion of the vascular catheter tip through the brachiocephalic vein. PMID- 2516465 TI - Direct observation of phosphorylase kinase and phosphorylase b by scanning tunneling microscopy. AB - The molecular structures of phosphorylase b and phosphorylase kinase have been visualized by scanning tunneling microscopy (STM). STM is a near field technique that can resolve structures at the nanometer level and thus can image individual molecules. Phosphorylase b can be seen in dimeric and tetrameric forms as well as linear and globular aggregates. The linear arrays consist of side by side dimers with the long axis of the dimer perpendicular to the aggregated chain. Individual molecules of phosphorylase kinase appear to be planar, bilobate structures with a 2-fold axis of symmetry and a central depression. PMID- 2516466 TI - The influence of unilateral castration on testicular morphology and function in adult rams. AB - An experiment was designed to investigate the mechanisms controlling testicular compensatory hypertrophy in rams. Endocrine and histological events were examined, with special attention to Sertoli cell hyperplasia and hypertrophy as contributing factors to the compensatory process. Fifteen sexually mature yearling Targhee rams were allotted to intact control (C, n = 5) and unilateral castrate (UC, n = 10) treatment groups in June. Approximately 150 days after UC, testicular tissue was collected in November after efferent duct cannulation and rete testis fluid (RTF) collection or perfusion fixation. Unilateral castration increased mean testis weight by 56% (p = 0.01) and mean epididymal weight by 15% (p = 0.05). Although the mean volume of RTF collected more than doubled after UC (1.55 +/- 0.86 vs. 0.63 +/- 0.10 ml for UC and C rams, respectively), the difference was not statistically significant. By 150 days after UC, the concentrations of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and testosterone (T) in jugular venous blood did not differ between the two treatment groups. The concentrations of T. dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and androgen-binding protein (ABP) in RTF were also similar for UC and C rams. However, since the observed mean RTF volume was increased, the amounts of T, DHT, and ABP exiting the testes of these UC rams via the RTF were approximately doubled, although this difference was not statistically significant. UC increased the mean diameter of seminiferous tubules by 21% (p less than 0.01) and of their lumina by 51% (p less than 0.01), but did not significantly increase mean height of seminiferous epithelium or estimated length of seminiferous tubules per testis.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2516467 TI - Regulation of pig Leydig cell aromatase activity by gonadotropins and Sertoli cells. AB - The present work was done to investigate the cell localization of testicular aromatase activity and its regulation in immature pig testis using an in vitro model. Leydig cells and Sertoli cells were isolated from immature pig testes and cultured alone or together in the absence or presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) or porcine follicle-stimulating hormone (pFSH) for 2 days. At the end of incubation, the amounts of testosterone (T), estrone sulfate (E1S) and estradiol (E2) were measured. Then the cells were incubated for 4 h in the presence of saturating concentrations of delta 4-androstenedione (3 microM) and the amounts of E1S and E2 were measured again (aromatase activity). The ability of Sertoli cells to produce estrogens was very low and neither hCG nor pFSH had any significant effect. hCG stimulated, in a dose-dependent manner, the secretion of T and E1S by Leydig cells cultured alone as well as the aromatase activity of these cells. The main estrogen produced by Leydig cells was E1S. pFSH also stimulated the above parameters of Leydig cell function; this may have been due to the contamination of this hormone with luteinizing hormone (LH). Coculture of Leydig cells with Sertoli cells without gonadotropins had very small effects on T and E1S production and on aromatase activity. However, treatment of coculture with increasing concentrations of hCG had a dramatic effect on Leydig cell functions. For each hCG concentration, the amounts of T and E1S secreted, as well as the aromatase activity of the coculture, were 2- to 3-fold higher than those of Leydig cells cultured alone.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2516468 TI - Mouse zygote development in culture medium without protein in the presence of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid. AB - Development of zygotes from a hybrid-inbred (B6D2F1) and two random-bred (CD1 and CF1) strains of mice were compared after culture in several modifications of a simple, chemically defined medium based on Earle's Balanced Salts Solution. When cultured without the addition of protein or the chelating agent, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), none of the zygotes reached the blastocyst stage. The addition of EDTA or protein significantly improved embryo development to blastocysts (p less than 0.05). The degree of improvement was dependent upon the strain of the female (85% or 91% for B6D2F1, 56% or 45% for CD1, and 19% or 28% for CF1, respectively). The addition of protein to the media in the presence of EDTA did not further improve embryo development. In all supportive conditions, zygotes from B6D2F1 females developed to blastocysts better than those from CD1 or CF1 females; embryos of the latter strain exhibited the lowest rates of development in vitro. Glycine and alanine (20 microM) partially substituted for EDTA; the decreased hybrid-inbred embryo development to blastocysts (20% and 26%, respectively) obtained in the presence of the amino acids suggested, however, that the stimulatory effect of EDTA on embryo development was other than as a source of fixed nitrogen. The rates of development observed with an alternate chelating agent, citric acid (less than or equal to 20% vs. 83% blastocysts, p less than 0.01), although better than the unsupplemented medium, were significantly less effective than EDTA-supplemented medium (83% blastocysts, p less than 0.01). The results of this study suggest that the protective effect of proteins in culture medium may be more important than their nutritive role.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2516469 TI - Purification and chemical composition of a low molecular weight follicle stimulating hormone binding inhibitor from porcine follicular fluid. AB - Porcine follicular fluid contains several factors capable of inhibiting the binding, in vitro, of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) to receptor, including an agonist and an antagonist of FSH biological activity in vitro. FSH receptor binding inhibitory activity (FSH-BI) was determined with assays using radioligand (125iodide-human FSH) receptor (calf-testes membrane); in vitro biological assays (cultured immature rat Sertoli cells) were used to determine antagonist/agonist activity. FSH antagonist activity is due to a low (less than 5000) molecular weight FSH-BI that is soluble in acidic acetone and insoluble in diethyl ether allowing preparative scale isolation. Additional purification was achieved by anion-exchange and reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. Highly purified, biologically active FSH-BI contained the amino acids Ser, Gly, Arg, Thr, Ala, Pro, Val, and Lys; hexoses (phenol-sulfuric acid-positive reaction); and ethanolamine. Thus, this FSH antagonist appears to be a complex glycopeptide- possibly derived from membrane components, as suggested by the presence of ethanolamine and carbohydrate residues. Porcine follicular fluid, therefore, contains a low molecular weight FSH antagonist that, along with the high molecular weight FSH agonist previously identified, may regulate gonadal responsiveness to FSH through interactions with the FSH receptor. PMID- 2516470 TI - Differential effects of follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone on Leydig cell function and restoration of spermatogenesis in hypophysectomized and photoinhibited Djungarian hamsters (Phodopus sungorus). AB - Effects of pure human follicle-stimulating hormone (hFSH) and ovine luteinizing hormone (oLH) on testicular function were investigated in long-term hypophysectomized or photoinhibited Djungarian hamsters. hFSH (5 IU) or oLH (5 micrograms) or a combination of FSH and LH (5 IU and 5 micrograms, respectively) were injected s.c. twice daily for 7 days to hypophysectomized and photoinhibited hamsters. Other photoinhibited hamsters were treated for 14 and 21 days with FSH and LH (3 IU and 3 micrograms, respectively) in a similar way. LH alone had little, if any, effect on testicular weights; FSH, when injected alone or in combination with LH (FSH/LH), caused a significant increase in testes weights at each time point. On the other hand, LH or FSH/LH, but not FSH alone, caused a significant increase in the accessory organ weights. FSH had no effect on intratesticular testosterone (T) or on 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3 beta-HSD) activity but enhanced the in vitro response of interstitial cells to hCG. LH and FSH/LH had pronounced effects on intratesticular T, 3 beta-HSD activity, and in vitro response of interstitial cells to human chorionic gonadotropin. Treatment with FSH or FSH/LH caused regrowth of the testis and restoration of tubular lumen and tubular diameter and restored complete spermatogenesis. However, LH had little effect on spermatogenesis in spite of increased intratesticular and peripheral T levels. These results indicate that although LH can cause a full redifferentiation of Leydig cells in photoinhibited hamsters, it has only minor effects on tubular function. On the other hand, FSH alone induces full restoration of tubular function in these animals and has no direct effect on Leydig cell steroidogenesis, but may enhance the Leydig cell responsiveness to LH. PMID- 2516471 TI - Effect of treatment with cortisol in vivo on secretion of gonadotropins in vitro. AB - To investigate the site of action of glucocorticoids in modulating secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) from pituitaries of male rats, we implanted intact male rats with 250-mg pellets of cortisol (F) or cholesterol (C). Four days later, we collected and enzymatically dispersed the pituitaries. After the dispersed pituitaries had been in culture for 2 days, we treated the cells with gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) (0-150 nM) and determined the concentrations of LH and FSH in the medium after 6 h of incubation. Cells from donor animals pretreated with F secreted 30-60% more LH approximately 75% more FSH than cells from donor animals pretreated with C. This increase occurred regardless of the presence of F or C in the incubation medium in vitro. The slopes and ED50s of the GnRH dose-response curves were not altered. These data show that glucocorticoids have stimulatory effects on both LH and FSH. The inhibitory effects observed in vivo must be exerted by some mechanism that is not carried over to the in vitro model, and perhaps involve sites of action in addition to the pituitary. PMID- 2516472 TI - Numerical simulation of systemic O2 and CO2 exchange in a hyperbaric environment. AB - The process of gas exchange in systemic capillaries and its surrounding tissue is simulated numerically in a hyperbaric environment, taking into account the molecular diffusion, convection, saturation of haemoglobin with O2 and CO2, and the metabolic activity in the tissue. Krogh tissue-cylinder is used as a geometrical representation of the capillary-tissue system. The resulting system of non-linear governing equations together with the physiologically relevant boundary conditions is solved numerically. It is found that the concentration of oxygen decreases from the axis of the capillary to the tissue periphery whereas the concentration of carbon dioxide increases. It is shown that very little CO2 is transported radially. The location of the vulnerable region from the point of view of CO2 accumulation is found to be the rim (r = R2, z = L) situated at the periphery of the tissue near the venous end of the capillary. It is also found that accumulation of O2 decreases whereas that of CO2 increases in a hyperbaric environment. Finally, it is surmised that one of the reasons in causing discomfort among divers could be excessive accumulation of CO2 in the tissue. PMID- 2516473 TI - [Phosphorylation of cytoplasmic poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase linked to free ribonucleoprotein particles by an associated protein kinase C]. AB - Considering the eventuality of an interaction between the two post-translational modifications, phosphorylation and ADP-ribosylation, we investigated the possibility of phosphorylation of the mRNP polyADPR polymerase by a protein kinase C associated to these particles. We demonstrated that cytoplasmic poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase associated with ribonucleoprotein particles containing silent mRNA is phosphorylated by a specifically activated endogenous protein kinase C which in turn induces an inhibition of the polymerase activity. In the absence of protein kinase C activators the mRNP polyADPR-P is also phosphorylated but without changes of its enzymatic activity. PMID- 2516474 TI - [Genetic variability of the circadian activity pattern of Drosophila in a natural population]. AB - With an actographic recorder (IR emitter), the genetic variability in the circadian rhythm of locomoter activity has been analysed within a natural population of D. melanogaster. The activity pattern shows differences between sexes and environmental conditions (photoperiod LD or continuous darkness). In free running conditions, the period and the amplitude of the activity peaks differ between isofemale lines. PMID- 2516475 TI - [Preliminary molecular phylogeny of the fishes based on sequence analysis of 28S ribosomal RNA]. AB - "Fish" phylogeny has been studied using partial 28 S ribosomal RNA sequences of 14 species among which 12 are "fish" ranging from lamprey to perciforms. Our results are in good agreement with generally accepted cladograms based on anatomical and paleontological data. Two interesting conclusions emerged: a) Polypterus is the sister-group of all other actinopterygians; b) the divergences of the Clasdistia, Tetrapoda and Chondrichthyes seem to have occurred during a relatively short period of time. PMID- 2516476 TI - [Value of nu/nu mice in the production of experimental amoebic keratitis with Acanthamoeba]. AB - The intracorneal inoculation of nude mice with Acanthamoeba hatchetti amoebae induced a keratitis with disruption of corneal fibres, inflammatory response, secondary vascularization and amoebic trophozoites. PMID- 2516477 TI - [Bilateral projection of the olfactory mucosa in the frog]. AB - Bulbar potentials wer bilaterally recorded in the frog following electrical stimulation of one olfactory nerve bundle. The general features of the contralateral evoked response were very similar to those of ipsilateral ones. The contralateral response was shown to be produced in situ, not being electronically transmitted from the bulb on the stimulated side. Its response disappeared after section of the olfactory interbulbar adhesion but was not affected by sectioning through either the anterior or the habenular commissure. It was concluded that messages from the neuroreceptors belonging to either the ventral or the dorsal olfactory mucosa on one side, reach both olfactory bulbs. PMID- 2516478 TI - [Enteral nutrition in clinical practice. Pathophysiologic basis of the effective use of enteral nutrition]. AB - Enteral nutrition by means of a thin tube is a significant enrichment of methods of nutritional support of patients in a catabolic state and those suffering from malnutrition. For the rational use of this method it is important to have reliable knowledge of physiological and pathophysiological processes in the course of digestion and absorption of nutrients, metabolism of energy substrates and to know the technique of enteral nutrition. The submitted brief review provides basic information on the problem. PMID- 2516479 TI - [Epidemiologic characterization of typhoid and paratyphoid fever and their prevention]. PMID- 2516480 TI - [Multiple correlation analysis of hormone parameters in sterile female patients with hyperandrogenism (correction of endometriosis)]. AB - The authors examined 100 infertile women of reproductive age with various degrees of hyperandrogenism. As a result of multiple correlation analysis it was found that the state of hirsutism and the ratio of body weight to height are the most sensitive indicators of the testosterone action in reproductive age (r = + 0.56, p less than 0.1, r = + 0.60, p less than 0.05). There was no correlation between LH, FSH, PRLI, E2 T and K values. The assembled results suggest the variable character of factors which influence clinical manifestations of the disease and explain the heterogeneity of symptoms. PMID- 2516482 TI - [The study of aflatoxin B1-induced hepatocarcinogenesis of rats and mechanism of selenium's inhibitory effect on carcinogenesis]. AB - Liver cancers of rats were induced by aflatoxin B1. Two other groups were given 3 ppm and 6 ppm selenium in water. It was found that Selenium had distinct inhibitory effect on carcinogenesis. 61% of rats not given selenium came down with liver carcinoma, whereas those given selenium no carcinogenetic changes were found. In the early stage selenium inhibited the formation of liver hyperplastic foci, in the late stage its effect was on the carcinogenetic change of the hyperplastic foci. PMID- 2516481 TI - [The hormonal profile in the polycystic ovary syndrome]. PMID- 2516483 TI - [Joint effects of directional and stabilizing selection in Drosophila melanogaster]. PMID- 2516484 TI - [An alternative to spore formation pathway of viability preservation of Bacillus cereus cells in extreme conditions]. PMID- 2516486 TI - Measurements of the strontium plasma clearance rate in patients receiving 89Sr radionuclide therapy. AB - The total strontium plasma clearance rate due to excretion through the kidneys and gut has an important influence on the absorbed does delivered to skeletal metastases and red bone marrow in patients receiving 89Sr radionuclide therapy for disseminated prostatic carcinoma. Although a measurement of the renal strontium plasma clearance rate may readily be obtained through a 24-h urine collection, little information is available on the correlation between renal and total clearances. We describe a method of determining total strontium plasma clearance rate from whole body counter measurements of total body strontium retention and measurements of plasma strontium concentration following administration of a 85Sr tracer dose at the time of 89Sr therapy. Amongst the 26 patients whom we studied, the total clearance rate varied from 1.2-15.0 l/day, renal clearance rate from 0.1-11.5 l/day, and the mean gut clearance rate was 2.0 l/day. A close correlation was found between total and renal clearance, with the renal component accounting for 96% of the variance in total strontium plasma clearance. A weak collection may exist between gut and renal clearance. PMID- 2516488 TI - [Pyoderma gangrenosum: an unusual complication of total parenteral nutrition in Crohn's disease!]. PMID- 2516485 TI - [Cross-reactions of GTP-binding proteins with other components of the adenylate cyclase system in molluscs and birds]. PMID- 2516487 TI - [The effect of pharmacologic blockade of serotonin receptors (S2) on arterial pressure in rats with 2 forms of hereditary arterial hypertension]. AB - The influence of blockade of serotonin S2 receptors with ketanserin was studied in two strains of rats with inherited arterial hypertension: spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR strain) and rats with inherited stress-induced arterial hypertension (ISIAH strain). It was found that peripheral injection of ketanserin produced a greater decrease of arterial blood pressure than i.c.v. administration. ISIAH rats were more sensitive to the hypotensive effect of ketanserin when compared to normotensive Wistar or SHR rats. PMID- 2516489 TI - [Tissue hypoxia and hepatocellular insufficiency in patients with cirrhosis]. AB - To determine whether tissue hypoxia occurred in cirrhosis, oxygen contents, mixed venous and hepatic venous lactate concentrations as well as systemic hemodynamics were studied in 53 patients with cirrhosis. The influence of liver failure on tissue oxygenation was also studied. Cardiac index and mixed venous and hepatic venous lactate concentrations were significantly higher in patients with cirrhosis than in 20 control subjects. Oxygen consumption, oxygen extraction ratio and mixed venous and hepatic venous carbon dioxide tensions were significantly lower in the former than in the latter. Oxygen transport was not significantly different between the two groups. Cardiac index and oxygen transport were not significantly different between grade A (Pugh's classification) and grade C patients. Mixed venous as well as hepatic venous lactate concentrations were significantly higher while oxygen consumption, oxygen extraction ratio and carbon dioxide tensions were significantly lower in grade C than in grade A patients. We conclude that tissue hypoxia occurs in patients with cirrhosis and hepatic insufficiency. This tissue hypoxia might be due to arteriovenous shunting-related limitation of tissue oxygen extraction. PMID- 2516490 TI - [Mutants of Bacillus subtilis resistant to lysine analog S-2 aminoethyl-L cysteine]. AB - AECR mutants of Bacillus subtilis were obtained and analyzed. The mutants were characterized by derepression of aspartokinase II and diaminopimelate decarboxylase synthesis and the synthesis of the precursor of lysine--DAP. According to genetic mapping data, aec mutations are localized in some B. subtilis chromosomal regions; they are linked to the thr5, leuA8, lys21 markers. PMID- 2516491 TI - [Isolation of Drosophila melanogaster strain y+ snw sc wa transformed by a series of P-element mediated vectors using microinjections into early embryos]. AB - P-element-mediated transformation of Drosophila melanogaster was performed and the effectivity of transformation determined using the y+snwsc wa stock. Some new D. melanogaster stocks with sne and sn+ phenotypes were obtained as well as the stocks containing bacterial "neo" gene integrated into the genome. PMID- 2516493 TI - [Interrelations of chemical composition and toxicity of the products of thermal destruction of various organic fibers]. PMID- 2516492 TI - [Comparison of the effectiveness of water disinfection by electrolysis and chlorination]. PMID- 2516494 TI - Treatment of chronic myelogenous leukemia with interferons: hematologic, cellular, and genetic investigations. PMID- 2516495 TI - Mechanisms of glucocorticoid-induced growth inhibition and cell lysis in mouse lymphoma cells. PMID- 2516496 TI - Monocyte interleukin-1 secretion is regulated by the sequential action of gamma interferon and interleukin-2 involving monocyte surface expression of interleukin 2 receptors. PMID- 2516497 TI - Cell lineage specificity of chromatin configuration and gene expression in haemopoietic progenitor cells. PMID- 2516498 TI - Multistage mastocytoma model characterized by autocrine IL-3 production. PMID- 2516499 TI - Purified bovine NF-kappa B recognizes regulatory sequences in multiple genes expressed during activation of T- and B-lymphocytes. AB - To characterize the NF-kappa B binding factor in molecular terms and to facilitate the cloning of its gene, we have purified this protein from bovine spleen tissue. We have found it is a 42,000-dalton protein that exists in solution as a dimer. We were able to use the purified protein to show that the same polypeptide is able to recognize sites important for activation of genes in either B- or T-lymphocytes. Moreover, we were able to define a consensus sequence which allows ascertainment of a wider variety of sequences that are capable of interacting with this protein. The implication of the same protein in gene regulation in two different lineages of lymphoid cells reveals an unexpected unity in the mechanism of gene expression during B- and T-lymphocyte activation. This also suggests that other regulatory events must participate with NF-kappa B activation in determining B- or T-cell-specific expression. PMID- 2516500 TI - c-ets-2 and the mitogenic signal pathway. PMID- 2516501 TI - Induction of lymphokine-activated killer (LAK) cells against human leukemia cells. PMID- 2516502 TI - [Light and electron microscopic studies of relationship between colon carcinoma and schistosomiasis]. AB - The light and electron microscopic observations were carried out in 50 cases of colon specimens. No remarkable morphologic differences were found between the epithelial cells of the mucosa with schistosomiasis, colitis and the normal specimens. Cells of the colon carcinoma also showed no significant difference from those of the colon carcinoma associated with schistosomiasis. Atypical changes in the epithelial cells were not seen in the areas both adjacent to and remote from the carcinoma and in the egg deposit areas. Under LM, changes were manifested in various degrees in degeneration and disassociation of mucosal cells in colitis (1), schistosomiasis (1) and carcinoma associated with schistosomiasis (8). Under EM, changes in mucosal muscle cells were seen in colon carcinoma (2) and carcinoma associated with schistosomiasis (5). Proliferation of fibroblasts and hyperchromasia of the nuclei were noted in 3 cases of carcinoma associated with schistosomiasis. The pathological changes mentioned above were more prominent in cases of carcinoma associated with schistosomiasis than in those of colon carcinoma alone. The authors believed that the cause was non-specific changes induced by the toxin of the egg mechanical effects rather than a direct carcinogenic action of the eggs, and that the non-specific changes implied no direct relationship between the development of colon carcinoma and schistosomiasis. PMID- 2516503 TI - In vitro proliferation of murine spleen cells: genetic control of proliferative responses induced by phorbol ester and calcium ionophore A23187. AB - Proliferative responses of normal (not immunized intentionally) spleen cells from inbred strains of mice to co-stimulation with phorbol ester (PMA) and calcium ionophore A23187 were studied. Striking differences in the magnitude of the responses of spleen cells and splenic T cells from various strains were observed. It appeared that these differences reflected mainly differences in the inducibility of the expression of the gene for the alpha chain of the IL2 receptor (IL2R) by phorbol ester. Formal genetic analysis suggested that the differences in response to phorbol ester and calcium ionophore are controlled by two independent genes with the alleles controlling good response being dominant. The differences in the inducibility of the IL2R gene seemed to be controlled by alleles of a single gene. At least one of the putative genes may be a regulatory element affecting the gene for the alpha chain of IL 2R. The results may have a practical significance for devising more efficient procedure(s) to generate LAK cells used for tumor immunotherapy. PMID- 2516504 TI - IgG subclasses responsible for immune clearance in mice infected with Trypanosoma cruzi. AB - To examine the role of different immunoglobulin subclasses in the immune clearance of Trypanosoma cruzi, mice containing bloodstream trypomastigotes were injected intravenously with immune serum, IgG-depleted serum, or with the IgG1 or IgG2 fractions and the rate of removal of the parasites from circulation was determined. Using IgG concentrations similar to those found in the immune serum, the rate of clearance mediated by IgG2 was six-fold higher than that obtained with IgG1. This difference did not appear to be due to differences in antibody specificity, as Western blotting showed that each isotype recognized a similar set of antigens extracted from the parasite. However, the T. cruzi specific antibody content of the IgG2 was approximately five-fold higher than IgG1. When the dose of IgG was adjusted to equalize the antibody content, the clearance ability of the IgG1 and IgG2 was very similar. It is concluded that the two subclasses have a similar clearance ability. PMID- 2516505 TI - [Procedure for calculating various parameters of the metabolism of amino acid mixtures]. AB - For the evaluation of indirect calorimetry, elements are used, which specify the relation between nitrogen (N) excretion and amount of oxidized amino acids (AS/N) and between nitrogen excretion and oxygen-/carbon dioxide-exchange of the corresponding amounts of amino acids (O2/N, CO2/N). These elements are only valid for the amino acid mixture which was used for their determination, and only under the condition of complete combustion of deaminized amino acid skeletons. We developed a computer program, which is able to simulate complete oxidation, maximal gluconeogenesis, and maximal lipogenesis for a given amino acid mixture of any composition. The parameters AS/N, O2/N and CO2/N were calculated by the program for various parenteral amino acid solutions. Range of error was determined exemplarily for the use of standard parameters. The calculations demonstrate errors up to 50% for the calculation of substrate turnover in indirect calorimetry, depending on composition and actual metabolism of amino acid mixtures. As long as these influencing factors are not known in stress metabolism, we recommend to use those elements, which were calculated for the amino acid solution in use, assuming complete combustion. PMID- 2516506 TI - The effect of long-term treatment with crude cotton seed oil on pituitary and testicular function in men. AB - In a previous study, compensatory dysfunction of the Leydig cell was identified in men in whom spermatogenesis had failed to recover after gossypol treatment. In this study, LHRH- (100 micrograms i.v.) and hCG (3000 IU i.m.)-stimulation tests were conducted in four controls and in 45 men who had used crude cotton seed oil as their cooking oil. The patients were divided into two groups: group A--17 men with normospermia or oligospermia and group B--28 men who were azoospermic. The basal serum LH and FSH concentrations were within the normal range in group A, whereas those in group B were increased markedly. There was no significant difference in testosterone levels between the two groups, although the levels were significantly lower than in the controls. The response of LH and FSH to LHRH, and of testosterone to hCG stimulation, were within the normal range in group A, whereas in group B the response to the LHRH test was increased significantly while their response to the hCG test was reduced markedly. It was concluded that the functions of the pituitary and Leydig cells remained unchanged in group A after long-term use of crude cotton seed oil, and that once azoospermia has occurred, it is followed by total testicular failure as indicated by the responses to LHRH and hCG tests. PMID- 2516507 TI - Age-dependent Sertoli cell responsiveness to germ cells in vitro. AB - This study investigated the effect of germ cells (greater than 80% mid- and late pachytene spermatocytes) on the secretion of androgen binding protein (ABP) and transferrin by monolayer cultures of Sertoli cells isolated from rats aged 10, 18 or 26 days. There was an age-dependent increase in secretion of ABP and transferrin. Treatment of the Sertoli cell monolayers with hypotonic buffer to remove residual germ cells reduced this increase significantly. On the other hand, addition of germ cells to hypotonic-treated Sertoli cell monolayers increased both basal and FSH + testosterone-stimulated ABP and transferrin secretion at all three ages, although Sertoli cells from 10-day-old animals showed the greatest response. Moreover, addition of germ cells reduced responsiveness to FSH + testosterone in Sertoli cell monolayers obtained from rats aged 18 or 26 days. In monolayers obtained from 10-day-old rats, the opposite effect was noted in the case of ABP secretion. The stimulatory effect of germ cells on ABP and transferrin secretion was proportional to their number, and was reversed 48 h after the germ cells added previously were removed by hypotonic treatment. Whereas the reversal was complete with cultures of Sertoli cells isolated from 18- and 26-day-old rats, approximately 40% of the stimulatory effect remained after removal of germ cells from cultures from the 10-day-old age group. Adhesion of germ cells to Sertoli cell monolayers was also found to be age dependent, with the largest proportion of added germ cells adhering to Sertoli cells isolated at 18 and 26 days of age. It is concluded that germ cells can significantly and differentially modulate the basal and hormone-stimulated secretory activity of Sertoli cells in vitro and that Sertoli cell responsiveness to germ cells (pachytene spermatocytes) is age-dependent and seems to appear early during the maturation process, before these germ cells appear in the testis. PMID- 2516508 TI - Probable pseudocholinesterase induction by valproic acid, carbamazepine and phenytoin leading to increased serum aspirin-esterase activity in epileptics. AB - The present findings show clearly that valproic acid, carbamazepine and phenytoin are each capable of significantly raising serum aspirin-esterase activity in epileptics being treated with these drugs (between p less than 0.01 and p less than 0.05). The data suggest that these antiepileptic drugs may well act as enzymatic-inducing agents upon plasma cholinesterase (or pseudocholinesterase) in epileptic patients. PMID- 2516510 TI - Health beliefs, the significant other and compliance with therapeutic regimens among adult Mexican American diabetics. PMID- 2516509 TI - Contraception and the adolescent diabetic. AB - We believe our data suggests that pregnancy among adolescent diabetics is more frequent than would be expected from the general population at a time when diabetic control is at its worse. Thus patients and their offspring are exposed to extreme morbidity. Current recommendations regarding contraception in patients with diabetes are not appropriate for the adolescent population and therefore tend to support this phenomenon rather than relieve it. Because of the peculiar physiological and developmental characteristics of this population, more medical research is necessary regarding various hormonal preparations available to determine the safest acceptable contraceptive for the adolescent diabetic. To be truly effective, these new alternatives must be presented to the patient in the context of a counseling program that (1) recognizes that this population does have an unusually high frequency of pregnancy for reasons unknown, and that (2) stresses the need for the patient to take control of the diabetes prior to becoming pregnant. PMID- 2516512 TI - The role of health education in reducing infant mortality in Richmond, Virginia. PMID- 2516511 TI - Preconceptional intervention: a programmatic model to reduce low birth weight incidence. PMID- 2516513 TI - AAHE scholar presentation. Boston, April 22, 1989. Reflections on directions in health education: implications for policy and practice. AB - In summary, this paper has attempted to share some reflections on directions in health education. I have called attention to the issue of "micro myopia," which narrows our perspective, turns us inward, and predisposes us to be less supportive of societal responses. The need for a broader perspective was presented and directions in which we should be going were identified. Attention was directed at the disproportionate and inappropriate emphasis on risk factors. Our limited knowledge base is evident, as are the limitations of an individual behavior approach. Concern was also expressed about the increased phenomenon of the educationalization of health problems and the gradual emergence of a mortality in health education. Finally, the relationship of risk factors to health was challenged. It seems that reduced mortality and increased longevity are driving forces, but are these synonymous with health? Few would argue that they are. Overall, concerns have been raised and suggestions forwarded for consideration, analysis, and debate. Where will we be in the year 2000? I don't know. Hopefully this presentation will provide insight into our current positions and help us reflect on our future directions. PMID- 2516515 TI - The menopausal transition: guidelines for researchers. AB - We believe that the menopausal transition can be eased for women if they have information about normal changes they can anticipate. Until now, research on the subject of menopause has been fragmented and flawed, in large part because an "oppositional approach" to the study of menopause has pitted biology against culture and has slowed progress toward a more fruitful interactive approach. Failure to agree on basic definitions has contributed further to fragmentation. Future research efforts must employ healthy, non-clinical samples and prospective designs that will avoid recall problems. Women must be at the center of this research, as respondents whose experiences and interpretations of these experiences become the focus of study. It is the normalcy of menopause that remains undocumented (Voda & George, 1986). When research has identified a range of experiences common to the menopausal transition for healthy women, it will be possible for aging women and their health care providers to make accurate assessments of their individual patterns of change. It is anticipated that studies will document a wider range of changes as normal than is currently accepted, perhaps reducing the number of interventions occurring when pathology is identified incorrectly. Studies with a bi-directional focus will make possible an understanding of the mutual influences of biology and culture on premenopausal women's changing experiences. Knowledge of which symptoms are inevitable conditions of hormonal shifts and which are not will remove the burden of ignorance from women and empower them to better cope with this life stage. PMID- 2516514 TI - A rural senior citizens health promotion demonstration project. PMID- 2516516 TI - Effects of teaching specific guidelines for alcohol consumption on alcohol knowledge and behavioral intent of college students. PMID- 2516518 TI - Once upon a synapse: a drug education simulation in three acts. PMID- 2516517 TI - Worksite health promotion, labor unions, and social support. PMID- 2516520 TI - High-performance gel permeation chromatography of meningococcal polysaccharides. PMID- 2516519 TI - Reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatographic purification of 125I labeled rat growth hormone-releasing hormone for radioimmunoassay. AB - Using reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography, an effective purification was developed for radioiodinated rat growth hormone-releasing hormone (rGHRH) with isolation of monoiodo-rGHRH. The use of this purified radio label resulted in improvement in binding, half-maximum displacement and sensitivity in radioimmunoassay for rGHRH. The improved radioimmunoassay performance allowed the measurement of in vitro basal and stimulated the release of rGHRH from incubated hypothalamic preparations. PMID- 2516521 TI - Assay for lysine-ketoglutarate reductase by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. PMID- 2516522 TI - Mitomycin C determination using loop-column extraction: a rapid and sensitive high-performance liquid chromatographic assay for pharmacokinetic studies with Spherex starch particles. PMID- 2516523 TI - Lactobacillus effects on cholesterol: in vitro and in vivo results. AB - A double blind investigation was conducted on the influence of a commercially available tablet containing Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus bulgaricus (Lactinex Becton Dickinson Microbiology Systems, Cockeysville, MD) on human serum lipoprotein concentrations. Tablets containing about 2 X 10(6) viable bacteria of Lactobacillus mixtures or placebo tablets were ingested by 354 nonfasting informed subjects in a dose of one tablet each, taken four times a day. There was a 3-wk washout period between two 6-wk treatment periods. The number of viable lactobacillus in unused returned tablets was the same at the end of the study as in the beginning. Analysis of paired data using Wilcoxon signed ranks test showed no major effects on lipoprotein concentrations for either the placebo-treated group or the lactobacilli-treated group. There were no statistically significant differences for low density lipoprotein concentrations between the lactobacilli-treated group and the placebo-treated group. The high density lipoprotein concentrations increased 1.8 to 3.0 mg/dl in both groups for both study periods. For total cholesterol the placebo-treated group experienced a statistically significant increase in the first period according to the Wilcoxon signed ranks test (from 208.0 to 215.0 mg/dl, P less than .001) but not according to a two-sample Student t test. Total cholesterol did not change significantly for the Lactobacillus-treated group in either period. Cardiac risk factor (ratio of total cholesterol to high density cholesterol) did not vary during the study. Lipoprotein values increased immediately following vigorous exercise compared with following 15 min of resting without either placebo or treatment. Sample controls for assay and reassay gave virtually identical values (coefficient of variation 1.6%), confirming that assay results were quite reliable. Thus, ingestion of commercially available Lactobacillus tablets, which contain about 2 X 10(6) cfu/tablet of L. acidophilus and L. bulgaricus cells in a dose of four tablets daily did not affect serum lipoprotein concentrations. PMID- 2516524 TI - Effect of human somatotropin-releasing factor and photoperiods on carcass parameters and mammary gland development of dairy heifers. AB - Forty-eight heifers (3 mo old) were subjected for 35 wk to twice daily s.c. injections of saline or human somatotropin-releasing factor (5 microgram.kg-1 BW) and photoperiod of 8 h (short day) or 16 h (long day) of light daily according to a 2 X 2 factorial design. There was no treatment effect on slaughter weight, withers height, and carcass length. Somatotropin-releasing factor increased thymus weight, metacarpal length, and protein content of the carcass but decreased carcass fat content. Long day photoperiod increased chest girth, pituitary weight, and carcass yield. Effects of somatotropin-releasing factor and photoperiod were not additive on volume of mammary parenchymal tissue; there was also a treatment interaction on liver and lung weights. However, extraparenchymal mammary tissue was decreased by human somatotropin-releasing factor and short day photoperiod. In conclusion, use of somatotropin-releasing factor and photoperiod treatments affected carcass parameters and composition and mammary growth. PMID- 2516525 TI - Accessory centers of ossification. PMID- 2516527 TI - [Spinocerebellar degeneration and neuropeptides]. PMID- 2516526 TI - [Pulsatile assistance for profoundly hypothermic circulatory arrest, low-flow perfusion, and moderate-flow perfusion: comparative study of brain tissue pH, PO2, and PCO2]. AB - The pH, oxygen tension, and carbon dioxide tension of canine brain tissue were experimentally examined during profoundly hypothermic cardiopulmonary bypass with and without pulsatile assistance. After core cooling, a 60-minute of circulatory arrest was performed in group 1 (n = 16), a 120-minute of low-flow perfusion (25 ml/kg/min) in group 2 (n = 16), and 120 minute of moderate-flow perfusion (50 ml/kg/min) in group 3 (n = 16). The core rewarming was done to the temperature above 32 degrees C. Each group was divided into two subgroups with and without pulsatile assistance (subgroup-p; n = 8, subgroup-c; n = 8). In group 1, progressive brain tissue acidosis and hypercapnea were recovered by use of pulsatile assistance. In group 2, brain tissue acidosis and hypercapnea were recovered completely with pulsatile assistance, but incompletely without it. In group 3, mild acidosis and hypercapnea were eliminated with pulsatile assistance. Brain tissue hypoxia was severe in group 1, slight in group 2, but not found in group 3. We conclude that a pulsatile assistance provides brain protection at any flow-ratio, and that the less flow-ratio and the longer perfusion period will make the pulsatile assistance the more necessary. PMID- 2516528 TI - Evaluations on the usefulness of viscous agents in anterior segment surgery. II. Effect on intraocular pressure and clearance from the anterior chamber. AB - Various viscous agents in anterior segment surgery were replaced with the aqueous humor of rabbit eyes. The effects of these agents on intraocular pressure (IOP) and their clearance from the anterior chamber were studied. Furthermore, the degradation of these agents in ocular and hepatic tissues was investigated. The IOP after the injection of a 1% solution of sodium hyaluronate with a molecular weight of 790 x 10(3) (Na-HA (790 x 10(3), 1%], fell to the normal level after 12 hours; however, after a 1% solution of sodium hyaluronate with a molecular weight of 2160 x 10(3) (Na-HA (2160 x 10(3), 1%], a 2% solution of methylcellulose with a molecular weight of 86 x 10(3) (MC (86 x 10(3), 2%] or a 30% solution of sodium chondroitin sulfate with a molecular weight of 30 x 10(3) (Na-Chs (30 x 10(3), 30%], the return of IOP to normal level required 24 hours. Six hours after the injection of MC (86 x 10(3), 2%), the IOP was significantly higher than those of other agents. Na-Chs (30 x 10(3), 30%) and Na-HA (790 x 10(3), 1%) were eliminated from the anterior chamber within 12 and 24 hours, respectively. Na-HA (2160 x 10(3), 1%) and MC (86 x 10(3), 2%) required 72 hours to be eliminated from the anterior chamber. The degradation of Na-HA was detected in extracts of the iris, corneo-scleral junction, and liver. The degradation of Na-Chs was also detected in the liver extract, but the degradation of MC was not detected. On the basis of these findings, and the results in our previous report with respect to the efficacy of the viscous agents, it is concluded that Na-HA is the best viscous agent to be used in anterior segment surgery. PMID- 2516529 TI - The prevention of biochemical changes in lens, retina, and nerve of galactosemic dogs by the aldose reductase inhibitor AL01576. AB - Normal eight month old beagle dogs were fed a diet of 30% galactose for a period of two weeks. One group of dogs was untreated while three other groups were orally dosed with 0.25, 1.0, and 5.0 mg/kg of the aldose reductase inhibitor (ARI), AL01576. No visible changes were observed in the lens but glutathione (GSH) and inositol were depleted while dulcitol was elevated. These biochemical changes closely parallel those found in the (two week) streptozotocin induced diabetic rat. In contrast with the diabetic rat model, retina and nerve inositol was not found to differ from normal in spite of significant dulcitol accumulation. Plasma AL01576 was found to be inversely correlated with lens dulcitol concentration. When plasma AL0P1576 concentration was greater than 1 microgram/mL (5 mg/kg), there was a 95% reduction in dulcitol concentration (relative to untreated), while concentrations of 0.2 to 0.2 mg/mL (1 mg/kg) of AL01576 resulted in a dulcitol reduction of at least 70%. Retina and nerve dulcitol concentrations of galactosemic dogs were similarly diminished by AL01576 treatment. The dog model exhibits a biochemical profile of change and responsiveness to ARI therapy similar to that observed in hyperglycemic rats. Changes in retina morphology in diabetic and galactosemic dogs has been shown to closely resemble those occurring in human diabetics; these early biochemical events may also parallel. PMID- 2516530 TI - Neural control of homosexual courtship in Drosophila melanogaster. AB - Immature D. melanogaster males, like virgin females, often elicit vigorous courtship from mature males. Since males perform the same behaviors in response to attractive males and females, the question arises as to whether the foci- cells in the courting male's nervous system that must be haplo-X for the fly to perform a behavior--are the same for homosexual and heterosexual courtship. To answer this question, we analyzed the behaviors that normal males perform in response to sexually attractive flies. From these data, we calculated the probabilities that a fly with haplo-X tissue in a focus for homosexual and heterosexual courtship would perform the behavior in response to one or both of the two sex objects with which it was tested. Next, we observed the courtship behaviors that gynandromorphs (sex mosaics) performed in response to attractive males and females. Since the numbers of mosaics that performed a behavior in response to one or both of the sex objects with which they were tested were not significantly different from the predicted values, we conclude that the foci for performance of homosexual and heterosexual courtship are almost certainly identical. PMID- 2516531 TI - Gallbladder distention in premature neonates receiving parenteral nutrition. AB - Contraction of the gallbladder is mediated through the release of cholecystokinin from duodenal cells secondary to enteral feedings. Premature infants are often nourished by parenteral hyperalimentation leading to prolonged inactivation of the gallbladder. Such inactivation probably accounts for the increased incidence of gallbladder distention observed in premature neonates. Two cases of premature infants are described in whom distention of the gallbladder occurred during parenteral hyperalimentation. The distention resolved spontaneously secondary to the introduction of enteral feedings. A trial period of oral or tube feeding is recommended in such cases prior to any attempt to release the distention by a surgical intervention. PMID- 2516532 TI - Maternal foetal iron relationship. PMID- 2516534 TI - Isoniazid acetylation and polymorphism in humans. AB - Phenotypes of slow and fast acetylators of isoniazid (INH) were determined in 157 subjects (80 normals and 77 patients with tuberculosis) from the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Plasma INH concentrations were determined chemically six hours after the drug ingestion. The findings indicate that 31.8% subjects were fast acetylators of the drug. PMID- 2516533 TI - Neonatal screening for congenital hypothyroidism in Pakistan. AB - Congenital hypothyroidism is a preventable cause of mental retardation. Since clinical signs of congenital hypothyroidism do not generally become obvious before three months of age, screening programmes have been introduced in North America and Europe, which consist of T4 or TSH screening on newborn infants on the third day of life. The screening for congenital hypothyroidism was initiated in Pakistan by the Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) in March 1987. By April 1988, 5000 neonates were screened and five cases of congenital hypothyroidism were diagnosed. The study revealed the incidence of hypothyroidism to be one case per 1000 newborns which is about 4 times more than that in the West. PMID- 2516535 TI - A histological study of the effects of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) on the gastric and duodenal mucosa. AB - The effect of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) on the gastric and duodenal mucosa was studied in 53 patients. On endoscopic biopsies, 87% patients showed gastritis and 90% duodenitis. Chronic superficial gastritis was the most frequent lesion in the stomach (49%); and mild duodenitis in the duodenum (54%). The antrum was the most frequently involved site in the stomach. An interesting finding in cases of duodenitis was the presence of dilated intestinal glands plugged with mucus. PMID- 2516536 TI - Medication attitudes--household survey of Faisalabad Tehsil. PMID- 2516537 TI - Carotid sinus syndrome. PMID- 2516538 TI - Hairy cell leukaemia. PMID- 2516539 TI - Ultrasound of lung masses, a possibility? PMID- 2516541 TI - Regional anaesthetic techniques for the general practitioners. PMID- 2516540 TI - Lead: a review of the recent literature. PMID- 2516542 TI - Effects of 17 beta-estradiol on the responses to vasoactivators and electrical transmural stimulation in isolated dog arteries. AB - The effects of 17 beta-estradiol, one type of estrogen, on the contractile and relaxant responses associated with the release of TXA2-like and PGI2-like substances activated by vasoactive substances and electrical transmural stimulation in isolated dog arteries were evaluated. The basilar artery and interlober branches of the renal artery were suspended with a tension of 1.5 g, in a tissue organ bath containing 20 ml of Krebs-Henseleit solution, which was maintained at 37 +/- 0.5 degrees C and aerated with a mixture of 95% O2 and 5% CO2, and isotonic changes were recorded. 17 beta-Estradiol increased the contractile response of the basilar artery caused by the release of a TXA2-like substance mediated by muscarinic cholinergic and angiotensin II receptors, and inhibited the relaxant response of the renal artery caused by the release of PGI2 like substance mediated by angiotensin II receptor. It inhibited the relaxant response when PGI2 was exogenously applied to the renal artery. These results indicate that estradiol increases the TXA2/PGI2 ratio. In this study, it was considered that estradiol is involved in the production of TXA2 and PGI2, which can be a cause of vasospasms. PMID- 2516543 TI - [Potentiation of carbon dioxide for hypoxic hypoxia-induced death]. AB - The circumstances in the hypoxic death cases are generally classified into pure hypoxic condition as replacement of O2 gas with N2 gas and hypercapnic hypoxic condition as replacement of O2 gas with CO2 gas. Although pure hypoxia and hypercapnic hypoxia should be distinguished, there are very few reports and data on their distinctive research. In order to evaluate the toxicity of both hypoxic gases in male mice, we determined the interaction range of O2 and CO2 gas concentrations, measured the spontaneous motility of mice exposed to various gases and investigated the effect CO2 gas on the hypoxic hypoxia-induced death. Gas toxicity was evaluated by the median lethal concentration (LC50) of O2 during 10 minutes' exposure to the gases, using a self-made simple experimental apparatus for acute inhalation gas toxicity. The LC50 of pure (nitrogen replacement) hypoxic gas was 6.0% (95% Conf. L., 5.6-6.4%) in O2 and the LC50 of hypercapnic (CO2 gas-replacement) hypoxic gas was 8.8% (7.4-10.1%) which was significantly different (p less than 0.05) from that of pure hypoxic gas. From the result described above it is suggested that CO2 potentiates the hypoxic hypoxia-induced death. The potentiation of CO2 occurred in the range of 6 to 12% of O2 concentration. While there was no dead case in the normoxic gas (O2 not equal to 21.0%) even of which nitrogen was replaced with CO2 gas by 14.9%. Not only significant difference of the lethal O2 gas concentrations, but also a little differences of signs and symptoms were observed between pure hypoxia and hypercapnic hypoxia.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2516544 TI - Expanding treatment modality of medically intractable epilepsy: classical excision and anterior callosal bisection. PMID- 2516545 TI - Relationship between CT-findings and electrical focus in epileptic patients. PMID- 2516546 TI - Positron emission tomography in epilepsy: correlative study. AB - Positron emission tomography (PET) was performed with the 18F-fluoro-deoxy glucose method on 29 patients with epilepsy (generalized epilepsy, 4; partial epilepsy, 24; undetermined type, 1). The subjects were restricted to patients with epilepsy without focal abnormality on X-CT. All the patients with generalized epilepsy showed a normal pattern on PET. Fourteen out of the 24 patients with partial epilepsy and the 1 with epilepsy of undetermined type showed focal hypometabolism on PET. The hypometabolic zone was localized in areas including the temporal cortex in 11 patients, frontal in 2 and thalamus in 1. The location of hypometabolic zone and that of interictal paroxysmal activity on EEG were well correlated in most patients. The patients with poorly-controlled seizure showed a higher incidence of PET abnormality (12 out of 13) than those with well-controlled seizures (2 out of 11). The incidence of abnormality on PET and MRI and the location of both abnormality were not necessarily coincident. These results indicated that the PET examination in epilepsy provides valuable information about the location of epileptic focus, and that the findings on PET in patients with partial epilepsy may be one of the good indicators about the intractability of partial epilepsy, and that PET and MRI provide complementary information in the diagnosis of epilepsy. PMID- 2516547 TI - Regional cerebral blood flow in epileptic foci using [I-123] IMP-SPECT. PMID- 2516548 TI - Composed dynamic topography for spike and sharp wave. AB - We reported two kinds of dynamic topographies. In one, an interspike interval histogram and a computerized topography of the EEG basic activity were composed. In the other, spike and sharp wave characteristics were composed of an isopotential topography. These topographies enabled us to observe serial changes in epileptic discharge dynamically by 1 msec. PMID- 2516549 TI - Concordance and discordance between PET images and foci of scalp EEG. PMID- 2516551 TI - Epileptogenic focus and MRI--the study of MRI and EEG of no relation to epileptogenic focus. PMID- 2516550 TI - Reexamination of 123I-IMP-SPECT at interictal stages in adult partial epilepsy. AB - 123I-IMP-SPECT scans at the interictal stages in 13 epileptic patients with normal X-ray CT findings were reexamined at intervals of 1.9 +/- 0.8 years. Interictal scalp EEGs were recorded a few hours after each SPECT scan. All of the SPECT abnormalities indicated focal hypofixation images of 123I-IMP, i.e. zones of a decreased rCBF reflecting a functional inactivation. Among 11 patients with the SPECT abnormalities in the first SPECTs, eight cases had the complete or partial regional reproduction of the abnormalities in the second SPECTs. As changes in the SPECT findings, an alteration from the abnormal SPECT images to normal images (normalization), the reverse change, the enlargement and reduction of hypofixation sites were seen. Also the EEG foci had various changes (right and left regional changes, etc.). Because of these SPECT and EEG changes, the regional relationship between the SPECT abnormalities and EEG foci altered in 7 patients (a change from disagreement to agreement, etc.). The high reproduction rate of SPECT abnormalities appears to increase the reliability or utility of SPECT scans for a regional diagnosis of epileptic foci. The present SPECT changes, especially the normalization or the severse change, suggest that the interictal epileptic focus may have a functional fluctuation. In addition, the causes of regional disagreement between the SPECT abnormalities and EEG foci were discussed on the basis of the present SPECT and EEG changes. PMID- 2516552 TI - The role of neuroimaging in the clinical practice of epilepsy--with a special reference to the correlative studies on the epileptogenic foci. PMID- 2516553 TI - Sustained attention during the interictal period of mentally normal children with epilepsy or febrile convulsions, and the influence of anticonvulsants and seizures on attention. PMID- 2516554 TI - Neuropsychological approach to epilepsy--with special reference to neuropsychological evaluations of the ictal psychosis. PMID- 2516555 TI - Clinical studies of schizophrenia-like state in epileptic patients. AB - Six subjects who suffered from epileptic seizures followed by a schizophrenia like state were examined. The mean duration between the onset of seizures and the psychotic state was 13.5 +/- 6.6 years (mean +/- S.D.). Five female subjects had episodic psychotic states and one man had a persistent one. Four subjects had localized temporal EEG abnormalities and the EEGs during psychotic states were different in each subject. During the psychotic state, no seizure was seen in the four subjects, a different seizure frequency in the episodic case and an unchanged frequency in the persistent case. The psychotic features were characterized by K. Schneider's first-rank symptoms. In order to understand the mechanisms of psychotic states, it will be useful to take into consideration the excitatory and inhibitory effects of neurotransmitters on limbic discharges. PMID- 2516556 TI - The localization-related epilepsies: some problems with subclassification. AB - One of the nosological problems of childhood epilepsies is the evolutionary change of foci with age. Benign childhood epilepsy with centro-temporal spike may evolve to show EEG features of childhood epilepsy with occipital paroxysms and vice versa. West syndrome is generally accepted as generalized epilepsy but is often preceded or followed by partial seizures and may have both partial seizures and tonic spasms in a single attack. Among epilepsies with both generalized and focal seizures, severe myoclonic epilepsy in infancy is more linked to generalized epilepsy whereas epilepsy with continuous spike-waves during slow wave sleep is more linked to localization-related epilepsy. Any type of partial epilepsy may develop nonconvulsive generalized seizures transiently with generalization of paroxysmal discharges during the clinical course. Moreover, nonconvulsive generalized seizures may occur even in localization-related epilepsy with spike-wave index during NREM sleep in less than 85%. PMID- 2516557 TI - The epileptic syndrome sharing common characteristics during early childhood with severe myoclonic epilepsy in infancy. PMID- 2516558 TI - Lennox-Gastaut syndrome: a developmental study. PMID- 2516559 TI - Three cases with secondary generalized epilepsy caused by frontal organic lesion. PMID- 2516560 TI - Ito syndrome (hypomelanosis of Ito) as a cause of intractable epilepsy. PMID- 2516561 TI - Clinical study of epileptic children with history of febrile convulsion. PMID- 2516562 TI - Results of corpus callosum section in two patients with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. PMID- 2516563 TI - Analyses of epileptics who have been intractable but entered prolonged remission afterwards without medications. PMID- 2516564 TI - Pharmacokinetic analysis of a new slow-release preparation of valproic acid (KW6066N). PMID- 2516565 TI - Pharmacokinetic study of slow-release preparation of sodium valproate (KW-6066N): multiple dose administration test and the steady-state serum level profiles in epileptic patients. PMID- 2516566 TI - Effectiveness and plasma levels of sodium valproate monotherapy in the treatment of epilepsies in children: a further study. PMID- 2516567 TI - Status epilepticus. PMID- 2516568 TI - Two cases of epilepsia partialis continua associated with head trauma. PMID- 2516569 TI - Cognitive function in children with epilepsy--comparison with other clinical findings concerning epilepsy. PMID- 2516570 TI - A peculiar state observed in 4 patients with severe myoclonic epilepsy in infancy. PMID- 2516571 TI - Epileptic seizures in a patient with mitochondrial myopathy, encephalopathy, lactic acidosis and strokelike episodes (MELAS). AB - This study reports a case of MELAS with epileptic seizure, and reviews the characteristics of seizures in patients with this syndrome. They are characterized by: (1) generalized and/or partial seizures, (2) frequent association with visual symptoms and hemiparesis, and (3) posteriorly predominant EEG abnormalities. PMID- 2516572 TI - Mechanism of occurrence of PLEDs: observations by SPECT and X-ray CT with lapse of time. PMID- 2516574 TI - Mortality and cause of death in patients with epilepsy over 16 years of age. PMID- 2516573 TI - Dynamic EEG topography in epileptic seizures. PMID- 2516575 TI - Relationship between a driver's license and employment situation for people with epilepsy. PMID- 2516576 TI - Psychological aspects of families with epileptic patients: a study using general health questionnaire. PMID- 2516578 TI - [Bladder diverticula combined with bladder carcinoma]. PMID- 2516577 TI - Tannins inhibit the occurrence of epileptic focus induced by FeCl3 injection in rats. PMID- 2516580 TI - [Thermoregulatory reactions of the human body to moderate hypercapnia]. AB - Thermoregulatory reactions to sustained hypercapnia were investigated. Continuous 40-day exposure to hypercapnia (1.1-1.6% CO2 in the breathing air) in a thermoneutral area was accompanied by the development of a cooling effect that took the form of enhanced heat production beginning with exposure day 3. As the exposure to hypercapnia continued, lactate and excessive buffer bases in blood decreased, core temperature and heat content of the body declined. These changes suggest the limiting effect of hypercapnia in the above concentrations on thermogenesis, evidently at the stage of glycolytic ATP resynthesis. PMID- 2516579 TI - [Requirement of an "ideal" drug for prevention of space motion sickness]. AB - The range of effects and mechanisms of action of drugs that are promising in terms of the development of a potent and low toxicity drug to prevent space motion sickness was identified. The use of anticonvulsive and adaptogenic drugs as a prophylactic measure of the syndrome was theoretically confirmed. In human studies these drugs were shown to exert a noticeable effect on statokinetic stability and mental performance. Possible mechanisms of anti-motion++ action of the drugs are described. Requirements for an ideal drug to prevent space motion sickness are formulated. PMID- 2516581 TI - Effects of serine and glycine on proliferation of an Ishikawa cell variant. AB - The proliferation of cells on an Ishikawa human endometrial adenocarcinoma line variant (Ishikawa-Var I) is markedly influenced by the medium used to culture them, viz. MEM vs BM (basal medium; DMEM/Ham's F12, 1/1, with additional glutamine and HETES), under serum-free conditions. Components of BM which are not present in MEM were systematically tested in order to identify those that might account for these differences. Cells were cultured for various periods of time, up to 8 days, in serum-free MEM to which the components to be tested were added. Cell population densities were evaluated using a fluorometric DNA assay when the cells were grown in multiwell plates, or by cell counting when the cells were cultured in plastic dishes. It was found that addition to MEM of a mixture of the amino acids that this medium lacks, significantly increased cell density. By testing individual amino acids at the concentrations present in BM, it could be demonstrated that addition of serine alone was sufficient to obtain the densities achieved with BM. Glycine, a metabolic precursor of serine, had a similar but smaller effect. None of the other missing compounds of BM was effective. Effects of serine on DNA synthesis were also estimated by measuring incorporation of [3H]thymidine for 1 h after a 24 h culture period in MEM. The effect of serine was similar and additive to that of 1% charcoal-treated fetal bovine serum. A serine concentration dependence studied either with this method or measuring DNA/well after 8 days in culture showed detectable effects at 0.005 mM concentration and maximal responses at about 0.025 mM. These findings are of potential importance in studies on regulatory mechanisms of cell proliferation. A possibility to be explored, for instance, is that serine added to the medium increases intracellular phosphatidylserine concentrations leading to increases in the activity of protein kinase C, a stimulator of cell proliferation in some systems. PMID- 2516582 TI - Arachidonic acid as a possible modulator of estrogen, progestin, androgen, and glucocorticoid receptors in the central and peripheral tissues. AB - In an attempt to learn whether modulation of steroid hormone receptor by arachidonate is generalized or not, the arachidonate effect was examined in cytosol estrogen (ER), progestin (PR), androgen (AR) and glucocorticoid receptors (GCR) from the central and peripheral tissues of rats by sucrose density gradient centrifugation, and gel filtration on LH20 columns or dextran-coated charcoal absorption. Arachidonate and other long-chain fatty acids appear to inhibit the specific binding of estrogen ([3H]R2858), progestin ([3H]R5020), androgen ([3H]R1881) and glucocorticoid ([3H]dexamethasone) to the respective receptors in brain (neonatal cerebral cortex and hypothalamus-preoptic area, HPOA), uterus and prostate, with the exception of the potentiating effect on the brain estrogen receptors. The potency of the unsaturated fatty acids paralleled to some degree the number of cis double bonds and carbon, in that oleate (C18:1) arachidonate (C20:4) docosahexaenoate (C22:6). The arachidonate inhibition was dose-dependent in the tissue steroid hormone receptors, except for dose-dependent potentiation of the brain cortical estrogen receptors. Inhibitory potency as expressed by the concentration for 50% maximum inhibition (Ki) was in the range of 11-18 microM for the receptors other than the uterine estrogen receptors with the value of 44 microM, suggesting lower sensitivity for the estrogen receptor to the arachidonate effect in the uterus. Analysis on kinetics and Scatchard plot revealed the non-competitive type of the inhibition. In addition, arachidonate lowered dose-dependently the peak of labelled progestin or estrogen binding to the 8S receptor proteins, which were collected from fractions in the 8S region of the cytosols from intact or diethylstibestrol-primed rat uteri. These results suggest the generalized modulatory effect of arachidonate on the steroid hormone receptors in the central and peripheral tissues. Arachidonate could affect, negatively or positively, the estrogen receptors, and negatively the progestin, androgen and glucocorticoid receptors, through a possibly direct but weak binding at sites different from steroid binding sites on the receptor molecules. A potential messenger role of arachidonate itself has been implicated in the regulation or modulation of the steroid hormone receptors. PMID- 2516583 TI - Chemical crosslinking: a useful tool for evaluations of steroid receptor structures and their functional states in intact cells. AB - A procedure of chemical crosslinking of intact cells with glutaraldehyde was employed to contribute to the understanding of glucocorticoid receptor structures and their functional states in vivo. Under optimal experimental conditions, glucocorticoid binding sites were found almost equally distributed between cytosolic and nuclear fractions of crosslinked cells. Sedimentation properties of crosslinked receptor complexes in cytosolic and nuclear extracts revealed that these entities were oligomers, which heterogeneously sedimented between 11 and 4S in the presence of 0.3 M NaCl. By anion exchange chromatography, we could establish that these receptor complex oligomers behaved as untransformed forms. PMID- 2516584 TI - Aromatase inhibition and experimental antitumor activity of FCE 24304, MDL 18962 and SH 489. AB - Human placental aromatase inhibitory properties of FCE 24304, MDL 18962, SH 489 and 4-hydroxyandrostenedione (4-OHA) were compared. The compounds caused time dependent enzyme inactivation with t1/2 values of 13.9, 13.1, 45.3 and 2.1 min and Ki values of 26.0, 0.7, 2.0 and 29.0 nM respectively. The antitumor activity of FCE 24304, MDL 18962 and SH 489 was studied on the DMBA-induced mammary tumor in rats, at daily s.c. doses of 10 and 50 mg/kg. FCE 24304 induced 30 and 73% regressions of established tumors, associated with 86 and 93% decrease in total ovarian aromatase activity. SH 489 and MDL 18962 did not affect tumor growth. FCE 24304, like 4-OHA, was shown to inhibit LH hypersection in castrated rats. A gonadotropin suppressive effect could contribute to the antitumor activity of aromatase inhibitors in intact DMBA-induced tumor bearing rats. PMID- 2516585 TI - The effect of the aromatase inhibitor, 4-(phenylthio)-4-androstene-3,17-dione, on dimethylbenz(A)anthracene-induced rat mammary tumors. AB - 4-(Phenylthio)-4-androstene-3,17-dione (4-PTAD), a known inhibitor of human placental aromatase, was examined as a growth inhibitor of DMBA-induced rat mammary tumors. Subcutaneous administration of 4-PTAD at dose levels of 25 or 50 mg/kg/day caused a significant decrease in hormone-dependent tumor growth. Resumption of tumor growth occurred when either the administration of inhibitor was stopped or when inhibitor was coadministered with estradiol indicating that suppression of tumor growth was due to inhibition of estrogen biosynthesis. Additionally, plasma levels of estradiol were found to be lower in the animals treated with 4-PTAD. The major metabolite of 4-PTAD in vitro was identified as 4 (phenylthio)-4-androstene-17 beta-ol-3-one and was found to have 60% of the aromatase inhibitory activity of 4-PTAD. PMID- 2516587 TI - AIDS and drug abuse: some aspects of psychiatric consultation. AB - Current research in Buenos Aires shows that approximately 35 per cent of intravenous users are HIV positive. These patients have behaviour disorders. Usually they are sent from one specialist to another, which increases their anxiety that originated in their suspicion of a serious prognosis. They are listened to when they discuss their disease but not enough when they try to talk about themselves as people with doubts about their future. Unconsciously physicians are trying to avoid involvement in the anxiety of the patient by means of a referral to a psychiatric consultation. The psychiatrist must handle this situation as a crisis in the doctor-patient relationship (both need help) to preventing further acts, additional anxiety and psychotic reactions. These patients need strong support not only because of the seriousness of the disease but also because of the situation of abstinence. Global treatment of a patient should be unified and managed by a physician with psychological training or assessed by one liaison psychiatrist, trying to avoid any split in the health team. PMID- 2516586 TI - Economics of health in South Africa: past, present and future. AB - Some of the background to the present structure of medicine in South Africa, an outline of some economic aspects of our current (inadequate) health care service and tentative suggestions regarding the directions in which our health services should be moving to facilitate the legitimization (political) and accumulation (economic) processes required to meet the needs and demands of all the people of an internationally recognized, just and free South Africa are presented. PMID- 2516588 TI - Can men who abuse children change? AB - Convicted child sexual offenders studied and method of treatment described. The role of alcohol is looked at and the sex offender who abuses alcohol is distinguished from the alcoholic who molests or rapes children. The criteria for success are set out and the rate of success recorded. PMID- 2516590 TI - Potential victim's role in the prevention of rape. AB - The 'It can't happen to me' attitude of women towards rape results in their ignorance concerning the action to take when confronted by a rapist. They can either resist, hoping to repel the rapist, or they can obey his commands, hoping he will depart without maiming or killing them. The view is put forward that a woman's best strategy is to resist. Intimidation is the rapist's best weapon, a necessary procondition to rape. The potential victim should refuse to be intimidated. Rapists are on the lookout for women who are vulnerable to attack. The perception of vulnerability differs from one rapist to another. Rapists test, then threaten. Testing is crucial for the rapist, for if he guesses wrongly about whether a woman can be intimidated he will lose his opportunity to rape her. Most rapists are not murderers. It is important that the potential victim should resist at the beginning of the attack and should not look vulnerable on the street. The potential victim should be advised to know her own strength, to be prudent, prepared and to have the necessary knowledge that will enable her to protect herself. PMID- 2516589 TI - The dangerous psychiatric patient. Part I: Epidemiology, etiology, prediction. AB - Physicians from various medical specialties have the opportunity to encounter once in a while a dangerous psychiatric patient, an encounter which in many cases generates confusion and embarrassment. An attempt is made to identify the typical characteristics of such a patient and to give some practical guidance to the physician "in the field'. A number of examples of the management of dangerous or even violent patients is presented. The objective of this contribution is to increase awareness of this issue, even among non-psychiatric medical personnel. Part I deals with epidemiology, etiology and prediction of dangerousness. PMID- 2516591 TI - Young victims and their later partners. AB - Sexual abuse can seriously traumatize the victim, especially if she is a young girl Ambivalent feelings regarding herself and others make it difficult and often impossible for her to find a partner later. Most relationships are brief. If the victim is able to form a lasting relationship both she and her partner will be confronted with the effects of her trauma. They face relational and sexual problems. It is difficult for the partner to accept her trauma emotionally. Therapy, usually carried out individually or in groups and without the partner, often fails to prevent the breakdown of their relationship or marriage. The partner's presence in or involvement with the treatment has proved very helpful provided the relationship has possibilities for change. PMID- 2516592 TI - A phenomenological analysis of African adolescents' meaning of dagga use within changing social relations. AB - The meaning of dagga use within changing social relations among African adolescents is explained. At the moment the accumulated data indicates that dagga use among people of all age and race groups in Southern Africa during the pre industrial era was not accompanied by dagga-related problems. It is assumed that today's prevalent drug 'abuse' by the youth results from their experience of who they are and the nature of the world they live in. Research participants represented three generations of Africans. Interviews were unstructed. The common experience in the use of the substance among members of the three generations (grand-parent, parent and sibling) was normlessness, purposelessness and powerlessness, accompanied by feelings of meaningless. The findings of the preliminary study pose a challenge for the traditional role of a clinician (to re construct a person's life) and indicate a need to transform a dagga abuser's total world. PMID- 2516593 TI - Alcohol and drug use by rapists and their victims. AB - Rape is the expression of a model of sexual behaviour in which violence, whether physical or mental, reaches its height, and in which alcohol and other psychoactive substances as factors associated with the crime play a large part. The purpose of this study was to use discriminant analysis to establish those variables which would allow us to establish, within the sphere of such crimes, the consumption of alcohol and other substances, either singly or in combination, by the aggressor and/or in combination, by the aggressor and/or the victim. A total of 86 cases of rape heard before the provincial court of Murcia (Spain) between 1980 and 1986 were analyzed. The data was analyzed with the BMDP statistics package. Alcohol consumption by aggressors was significantly associated with evening and night hours and injury to the victim. PMID- 2516594 TI - Patterns of cocaine abuse in an inner city emergency psychiatric service setting. AB - The reported study identifies the socio-demographic profile of the patient who presents himself to the emergency room of an inner city hospital with a history of recent cocaine use; and investigates the patterns of cocaine abuse. PMID- 2516595 TI - Puerperal psychosis following ablaction with bromocriptine. AB - Addiction in the context of drug abuse usually is perceived as habitual dependence on the part of the consumer of a potentially habit forming drug. Attention is drawn to an alternative pattern of drug abuse, namely, unwarranted prescription of drugs on the part of physicians. An example of what the writers perceive is the habitual distribution of a potentially harmful drug in the absence of a clear-cut indication. Attention is being drawn to the worldwide use of bromocriptine, an agent suspected of causing occasional vasospasm, hypertensive cerebral accident and myocardial infarction, for the purpose of ablactation. An additional observation is described where, following administration of bromocriptine in the puerperium manifestations consistent with ergotism developed. The clinical picture was also consistent with pure puerperal psychosis. Attention is also drawn to the likelihood of a cause-effect relationship between the abovementioned drug (an ergot derivative) and the ensuing psychotic reaction. PMID- 2516596 TI - Prevention and management of problems related to alcohol abuse in Papua New Guinea through primary health care. AB - This study is designed to answer three questions: 1) What is the situation in Papua New Guinea today with respect of the use and abuse of alcohol? 2) What are the existing programmes for the prevention and management of problems related to alcohol abuse in PNG? 3) Are the existing programmes of prevention and management integrated into the primary health care system or do they operate separately? The instrument for the study is a questionnaire which was adapted and modified from a World Health Organization sponsored workshop on prevention and management of alcohol and drug abuse problems in Africa held in September 1985 in Lagos. The questionnaires were administered to two groups of Papua New Guineans. The first group comprised community and religious leaders attending a workshop on alcohol education held in Lae in February 1988. The second group consisted of mental health nurses and general nurses working in the capitals of the nineteen provinces and the National Capital District of PNG. The questionnaires were administered to the second group personally or by post. The completed questionnaires were statistically analyzed and form the basis of this article. Legal drinking of alcohol for all mature Papua New Guineans started in 1962 when the law on prohibition was repealed. 'In the twenty years since drinking of alcoholic beverages by everyone of legal majority was allowed in Papua New Guinea, a rather clear-cut national style of alcohol use has developed. This style, if continued, points in a disturbing direction. It will lead to a number of serious problems that can be predicted with assurance because they have occurred in many other parts of the world where similar drinking styles exist.' PMID- 2516597 TI - Ethics in the nursing curriculum for all levels of education: baccalaureate, masters' and doctoral. PMID- 2516598 TI - Ethics of nursing research: ethical implications of not undertaking nursing research and for ignoring results of nursing research. AB - If the standard of patient care, the nurse's raison d'etre, is to continue to improve, it is imperative that nurses be aware of the importance of nursing research and that more research has to be undertaken. PMID- 2516599 TI - Listeria monocytogenes. A model system for the molecular study of intracellular parasitism. AB - Listeria monocytogenes is a facultative intracellular bacterium which, in its mammalian host, can infect enterocytes and mononuclear phagocytes. It is responsible for severe infections in humans and animals. Recovery from infection and resistance depends on the development of a T-cell response, antibodies not being protective. Several features of L. monocytogenes make it particularly suitable for the study of genetic and molecular aspects of invasion and intracellular parasitism. First, L. monocytogenes not only multiplies rapidly in bacterial broth but also easily infects macrophages and other cells in culture. Second, since it infects primarily immunocompromised individuals or pregnant women, its manipulation does not require extensive containment. Third, the genus Listeria includes several nonpathogenic species, facilitating the identification of species-specific genes and products required for pathogenicity. This identification is now possible due to the parallel development of powerful genus specific genetic tools (transposons, plasmids, genetic transformation) and improvement of recombinant DNA techniques. Finally, the in vivo relevance of the putative virulence genes or gene products can be tested in the experimental murine infection, which has already proved invaluable in the study of the induction and expression of T-cell-mediated immune response. This review discusses current knowledge concerning these particular features, with an emphasis on listeriolysin O, a major virulence factor, and the only bacterial gene product known to be absolutely required for intracellular growth. PMID- 2516600 TI - [Antibiotics used for paratyphi B infections resistant to classical treatment and the results of their use]. AB - Salmonella paratyphi B is a pathogenic agent causing outbreaks and keeping epidemiologic importance. The classical treatment of this disease is made by ampicillin, chloramphenicol, and co-trimoxazole in resistant strain. The resistant strains tends to cause a treatment problem. We report treatment and antibiogram results of 48 patients exactly diagnosed as paratyphi B infection by clinic and laboratory evaluation. These patients came to pediatric clinic of Erzincan state Hospital from Erzincan town and its backgrounds and had ages between 3 months and 5 years. All isolates were resistant to ampicillin, chloramphenicol and cotrimoxazole but usually sensitive to 3. generation cephalosporins (Cefotaxime had greatest sensitivity ratio with 79.1%) and amikacin. PMID- 2516601 TI - [Identification of Pseudomonas species isolated from various clinical specimens and their susceptibility to ofloxacin]. AB - In this study Pseudomonas species isolated from various clinical specimens were identified and susceptibility of these species to ofloxacin was investigated. The identification of 88 Pseudomonas isolates was performed according to their pigment production, type of haemolysis, growth on cetrimide medium and growth at 42 degrees C. Oxidase test was also employed to all of these strains. Macrodilution method was used in order to investigate in vitro activity of ofloxacin against these strains. All of 88 isolates were identified as P. aeruginosa. Ofloxacin was found to have an MIC 50 value of 2 micrograms/ml and an MIC 90 value of 16 micrograms/ml for these isolates. Susceptibility to ofloxacin was observed in 86.4% of 88 P. aeruginosa. PMID- 2516602 TI - Diphtheria: experience in a general hospital. AB - A review of patients with diphtheria seen in the Paediatric Unit, Alor Star General Hospital, from January 1985-March 1987 is reported. Their clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment and outcome were analysed and discussed. Clinical awareness regarding the diagnosis of diphtheria is emphasised. PMID- 2516603 TI - Waldenstrom's macroglobulinaemia--a case report. AB - A case of Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia with classical findings of IgM paraproteinaemia and a typical lymphoplasmacytic marrow infiltrate is reported and the treatment of this patient outlined. PMID- 2516605 TI - [The effect of cimetidine to suppress the reduction of gastric mucosal blood flow caused by immobilization in water--its relationship to noradrenaline]. AB - Reduction of gastric mucosal blood flow has been regarded as being the most important event for the gastric defensive mechanisms. In male Wistar rats immobilized in water, the authors recently studied the effect of cimetidine on the gastric mucosal blood flow and the mechanism for that action of cimetidine. In vivo, animals were divided into four groups (PGE2-treated, PGI2-treated and cimetidine-treated groups and an untreated control group), and mucosal blood flow before and 4 hours after the start of immobilization was determined with the electrolytic hydrogen gas clearance technique. In vitro involving perfusion of the isolated gastric blood vessels, the effect of treatment with PGE2, PGI1 or cimetidine in the presence of stimulation with noradrenaline was assessed. The stress-caused blood flow reduction was significantly suppressed in the PGE2 treated group (26.9% reduction in blood flow), the PGI2-treated group (15.7%) and also in the cimetidine-treated group (39.2%) as compared to the controls in which blood flow was reduced by 58.0% following immobilization. In vitro, cimetidine treatment resulted in a reduction of gastric perfusion pressure by 36.6% at maximum although the reduction was more marked following treatment with PGE2 (44.9% reduction) or PGI2 (49.4%). This result suggests that cimetidine also has a vasodilative action. PMID- 2516604 TI - [Effect of UFT on nuclear DNA distribution of gastric and colorectal carcinomas]. AB - To evaluate the effect of UFT on nuclear DNA distribution of carcinoma, we measured the DNA content of biopsy specimens and resected specimens obtained from 18 patients by microfluorometry. The tumors consisted of 7 gastric and 11 colorectal carcinomas. Five patients who received administration of 400mg of UFT (400mg of tegafur) were classified as the chemotherapy group and another 13 patients were classified as the control group. 1) DNA indices of biopsy specimens and resected specimens of the same patients showed almost the same values both in the control group (r = 0.81) and in the chemotherapy group (r = 0.89) (p less than 0.05). 2) S and S + G2M fractions of resected specimens showed almost the same values as compared with those of corresponding biopsy specimen in the control group. However, in the chemotherapy group S and S + G2M fractions of resected specimens showed a tendency to be higher than those of corresponding biopsy specimen (0.05 less than p less than 0.1). This study indicates that the biopsy specimens are sufficient for DNA analysis and that UFT-induced DNA change may be increase of S and S + G2M fraction. PMID- 2516606 TI - Cardiazol-induced seizures and the concentration of lipid peroxides in the brain of rats under the influence of valproic acid and vitamin E. PMID- 2516607 TI - [Total parenteral nutrition. Analysis of the results of 144 treated cases]. AB - Of 144 patients treated with T.P.N. in the period 1-5-1987/30-9-1988, 128 have been to have an operation. Their survival at the time of the removal, the post operating mortality, the average stay in hospital, have been compared with those of other 128 patients non-treated with T.P.N., suffering from similar pathologies and who had operation of the same kind. The obtained results have stressed in the patients treated with T.P.N. as in those who had not, a survival at the time of the removal of 75% contrary to 62.5%, a post-operating mortality of 25% contrary to 37.5%, an average post-operative stay in hospital of 13 days contrary to 15 days. The statistical elaboration executed with chi 2's test with Yates' correction, provided 0.25 less than P greater than 0.50, so data non particularly meaningful. In our casuistry the percentage of surviving in the patients treated with T.P.N. as to those not treated, is nevertheless, very encouraging; furthermore, we most think that only by taking advantage of T.P.N. has been possible to extend the operability to patients that in the past because of well on years, or because of dangerous surgical illnesses joined to dismetabolic and cardiovascular diseases, were judged not operable. PMID- 2516608 TI - Renal cell carcinoma in dialysis patients with acquired renal cysts. PMID- 2516609 TI - Efficacy and tolerance of treatment with recombinant-human erythropoietin in chronic renal failure (pre-dialysis) patients. AB - Recombinant-human erythropoietin (r-HuEPO) was administered to 24 anaemic pre dialysis patients with end-stage renal disease. R-HuEPO was injected i.v. three times weekly during the first two months (correction phase). Fixed dosages of 50 U/kg, 100 U/kg, and 150 U/kg were used, and each dose group consisted of eight patients. During the subsequent six months r-HuEPO was given once weekly and the dose was adjusted to maintain a stable haemoglobin value (maintenance phase). The mean +/- SD haemoglobin increased from 9.3 +/- 0.6 to 11.1 +/- 1.3 g/dl with 50 U/kg, from 7.9 +/- 1.4 to 11.8 +/- 1.7 g/dl with 100 U/kg and from 8.4 +/- 1.0 to 12.1 +/- 1.1 g/dl with 150 U/kg of r-HuEPO. The two highest dose groups showed a marked reticulocytosis and a transient thrombocytosis. During the maintenance phase haemoglobin remained stable (11.9 +/- 1.1 g/dl) at a mean dose of 199 +/- 139 U/kg of r-HuEPO per week. Blood pressure did not increase, but in nine of eighteen previously hypertensive patients antihypertensive medication was increased. One hypertensive patient developed seizures. No accelerated progression of renal failure could be demonstrated. All patients reported an improved sense of well-being. R-HuEPO is an important new therapeutic agent for the treatment of anaemia of end-stage renal failure that is also effective in pre dialysis patients. PMID- 2516610 TI - Does increasing haemoglobin concentration and haematocrit have a pressor effect in dialysis patients? AB - The haemodynamic consequences of differing rates of rise of haemoglobin and haematocrit in haemodialysis and CAPD patients were examined. Pre-dialysis mean arterial pressure, weight and haematological indices were recorded in 100 established haemodialysis patients prior to a 2-unit blood transfusion and repeated, pre-dialysis, within 1 week. Haemoglobin rose from 6.7 +/- 0.2 to 9.3 +/- 0.1 g/dl, weight was unchanged, and there was a small fall in mean arterial pressure. Similar indices were recorded, including the mid-arm circumference (MAC) in 100 CAPD patients 1 month after starting CAPD and at the time of maximum haemoglobin within the first year. Haemoglobin rose from 8.5 +/- 0.1 to 10.7 +/- 0.1 g/dl, weight increased slightly, but there was no change in MAC: weight ratio and there was a small fall in mean arterial pressure. In neither group was there a change in antihypertensive medication. In conclusion, increasing the haemoglobin concentration and haematocrit of dialysis patients within the range described in this study did not promote elevated blood pressure. PMID- 2516611 TI - Plasma oxalate concentration, oxalate clearance and cardiac function in patients receiving haemodialysis. AB - Pre-dialysis plasma oxalate concentration was measured in a cross-sectional study of 75 patients receiving maintenance haemodialysis. The aims of this study were to enable formulation of hypotheses regarding the determinants of plasma oxalate concentration and to allow preliminary examination of the possibility that hyperoxalaemia confers an increased risk of cardiac and vascular disease even in the absence of primary hyperoxaluria. Plasma oxalate concentration ranged between 7 and 76 mumol/l, mean (SD) 34.6 (18.1) mumol/l (normal range less than 0.8-2.0 mumol/l). Significant correlations were found between plasma oxalate concentration and plasma creatinine, duration of dialysis, current dose of ascorbic acid, and serum phosphate, and each of these variables retained significance on multiple linear regression. Oxalate clearance across a 1 m2 hollow-fibre Cuprophan dialyser, at 500 ml/min dialysate flow and blood flow between 175 and 225 ml/min, was measured 1 h after commencement of dialysis (n = 19). Mean (SD) clearance was 96.5 (27.0) ml/min. No significant association was found between self-reported maximum walking distance or the occurrence of symptoms of cardiac failure and plasma oxalate concentration. No relationship was found between plasma oxalate concentration and electrocardiographic conduction disturbances (n = 8) 'major' ST/T wave changes (n = 22), 'minor' ST/T wave changes (n = 49). Plasma oxalate was significantly greater in patients with radiologically detectable calcification of medium-sized arteries than in those without calcification, but duration of dialysis was also significantly longer in these patients. Routine haemodialysis results in marked hyperoxalaemia, which may be exacerbated by ascorbate supplementation. Oxalate clearance is similar to that of other small molecules such as creatinine and phosphate.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2516614 TI - Pseudomonas peritonitis in CAPD patients: characteristics and outcome of treatment. AB - Twenty-five episodes of Pseudomonas peritonitis which occurred over a five-and-a half-year period were reviewed. Pseudomonas peritonitis accounted for 25/516 (4.8%) of all episodes of peritonitis. Nine of the episodes were first infections in that the patient had not experienced peritonitis before. The rest were repeat peritonitis. There was no difference in any demographic factors between the first episodes and the repeat episodes except exit site infection which was more common among patients who had repeat infections. Overall cure rate of Pseudomonas peritonitis was 20/25 (80%). Five catheters had to be removed, all in patients who had to be transferred permanently to haemodialysis. In general, ceftazidime in combination with an aminoglycoside was an effective regimen. Oral ofloxacin was not useful despite in vitro sensitivity of the pathogen to the antibiotic. PMID- 2516612 TI - The effect of lactate-buffered solutions on the acid-base status of patients with renal failure. AB - We investigated the effect of an exogenous lactate load given during intermittent machine haemofiltration to three groups of patients with renal failure: those with dialysis-dependent end-stage renal failure (6 patients) and those with either acute renal (8 patients) and/or acute hepatorenal failure (6 patients). As expected, the hepatorenal group exhibited the greatest degree of hyperlactataemia, and this was associated with the development of a metabolic acidosis. There were correlations between the maximum blood lactate measured during treatment and the increase in arterial hydrogen ion concentration (r = 0.76, P less than 0.001), and between the decrease in serum bicarbonate (r = 0.89, P less than 0.001) and the mean arterial blood pressure prior to treatment (r = -0.57, P = 0.003). This suggests that hyperlactataemia is not as benign as previously thought and that lactate-buffered fluids should be used with care in patients with hepatorenal failure and cardiovascular instability. PMID- 2516613 TI - Peritoneal ultrafiltration and fluid reabsorption during peritoneal dialysis. AB - Peritoneal ultrafiltration and fluid reabsorption characteristics for 18 patients undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) were investigated in single dwell studies of 6 h duration with 21 of 3.86% glucose dialysis fluid. Dialysate volumes were determined in situ using radioiodinated serum albumin (RISA) as volume marker with a correction applied for the total elimination of RISA from the peritoneal cavity. The RISA elimination rate was calculated as 2.1 +/- 0.5 ml/min. The true dialysate volume after 360 min was on average 28% less than the apparent volume calculated without correction for the elimination of RISA. The mean maximum true volume plus sampling losses was 3255 ml at 240 min, corresponding to a mean net ultrafiltration volume of 762 ml between 3 min and 240 min. The mean net fluid reabsorption rate between 240 min and 360 min was 1.2 +/- 0.7 ml/min. This study of standard dialysate volume/time curves in clinically stable CAPD patients using hypertonic dialysis fluid shows that about 90% of the total net ultrafiltration is achieved during the first 90 min of the dwell. After an extended period of dialysate isovolaemia, usually lasting as long as between 120 min and 240 min, fluid reabsorption is observed in all patients. PMID- 2516615 TI - Phosphate binding efficiency of a polyuronic acid in normal subjects. AB - We evaluated the phosphate-binding efficiency of Sorbiphos, a non-toxic aluminium free natural polymer, in five volunteers aged 28-34 years with normal renal function. After an overnight fast, a placebo, 2 g of Sorbiphos or a therapeutic dose of Alu-Cap (950 mg) were given, 30 min before a dietary load of phosphorus. Serum and urinary phosphate were measured on hourly samples. A similar increment in serum and urine phosphate was noted after the ingestion of placebo or Sorbiphos, but both serum and urine phosphate increased less after Alu-Cap. Since the recommended dose of Sorbiphos is half that of Alu-Cap, we conclude that Sorbiphos has little phosphate-binding efficiency in normal subjects given moderate phosphate loads. PMID- 2516616 TI - Double-blind study on the antiproteinuric effect of captopril versus placebo in cryoglobulinaemic glomerulonephritis: a Franco-Hispano-Italian study. PMID- 2516617 TI - Gastrointestinal absorption of aluminium in diabetic patients on dialysis. PMID- 2516618 TI - Chronic prenatal haloperidol exposure: lack of effect on presynaptic dopamine autoreceptors. AB - Prenatal haloperidol exposure in rats is known to reduce striatal D2 receptor binding in postnatal day (PND) 30 offspring. The effects of prenatal haloperidol exposure on presynaptic dopamine (DA) autoreceptor function are not well described. Pregnant albino rats were given daily injections of haloperidol (2.5 or 5.0 mg/kg, sc) or vehicle over gestational days 6-20. Presynaptic DA autoreceptor function was assessed using the DOPA decarboxylase inhibitor NSD 1015 and gamma-butyrolactone in the caudate, nucleus accumbens and olfactory tubercles of male offspring sacrificed on PND 97. There appeared to be no impairment of autoreceptor function in any region studied. The data indicate that prenatal haloperidol exposure does not result in permanent alterations in presynaptic DA autoreceptor function. PMID- 2516619 TI - Primary meningococcal conjunctivitis. PMID- 2516620 TI - Childhood central nervous system tumors. PMID- 2516623 TI - Pseudomonas aeruginosa endogenous endophthalmitis in a neonate. PMID- 2516622 TI - Etiology of community-acquired pneumonia in children based on antibody responses to bacterial and viral antigens. AB - The serologic responses to bacterial and viral antigens were determined in paired serum samples from 336 children, ages 1 month to 15 years, with roentgenographically verified community-acquired pneumonia. Significant increases in antibodies against one agent were found in 40% and against two or more agents in 8% of the children. There were significant increases in antibodies against respiratory syncytial virus in 20%, viruses of the influenza-parainfluenza group in 6% and adenovirus in 3%. A serologic response to one or more of the pneumococcal antigens used (type-specific capsular polysaccharide, C polysaccharide and pneumolysin) was demonstrated in 13% of the patients. Ten percent of the children had significant increases in antibodies against Mycoplasma pneumoniae. Only three patients had increases against Haemophilus influenzae type b and one each against Legionella pneumophila and Chlamydia. Respiratory syncytial virus was the predominant etiologic agent in young children whereas M. pneumoniae was more frequent in the older age group. PMID- 2516621 TI - [Systemically administered regional tumor therapy. Regional hemi-body chemotherapy of metastatic malignant melanoma--an experimental therapy concept]. AB - Since systemic application of a high-dose chemotherapy is limited by the extent of intolerable toxicity and overall response rates so far are rather poor, the systemic mode of chemotherapy for metastatic melanoma appears to be of only limited benefit. On the other hand, results from isolated limb perfusion for satellitosis and in-transit metastasis suggest distinct dose-response correlations with tumoricidal properties of appropriate antineoplastic agents. This experience prompted the idea to pilot the anti-tumor action of a high-dose regimen confined to one hemibody compartment for targeted tumor therapy. After having standardized the surgical procedure this goal appeared to be achievable by expanding the perfused area and by simultaneously detoxifying toxic drug levels within the non-perfused compartment by venous filtration. Two initial causal experiences revealed impressive tumor regressions and are therefore reported on preceding subsequent evaluation within a controlled clinical trial being designed at different solid tumors. PMID- 2516624 TI - Prostaglandins E2 and I2, interleukin 1-beta, and tumor necrosis factor in cerebrospinal fluid in infants and children with bacterial meningitis. PMID- 2516625 TI - [Effect of hemodialysis on the functional status of small airways and partial pressure of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood of patients with chronic uremia]. AB - In 18 patients with chronic uremia the effect of 4 hour hemodialysis on VC, FEV1, PEF, MEF25, MEF50, MEF75, PaO2 and PaCO2 were analysed. Significant falls in PaO2 and PaCO2 were found after ending the four hour long hemodialysis. Only nonsignificant changes in the other parameters were observed. The results of this study demonstrates the role of ventilatory disturbances of small airways in the pathogenesis of dialysis induced hypocapnia and hypoxemia. PMID- 2516626 TI - Assessment of the systemic distribution and toxicity of glutaraldehyde as a pulpotomy agent. AB - The systemic distribution of glutaraldehyde (GA) from a pulpotomized tooth of a rat was estimated to be 40 nanomoles or 25% of the applied dose. Metabolic studies disclosed that GA was eliminated in urine and expired gases; 90% was cleared from body tissues in 3 days. To evaluate the toxicity of GA, doses 500x greater than that systemically distributed from a pulpotomy site were infused into the jugular veins of rats. Twenty-four hours postinfusion the rats were evaluated in vivo for physiologic changes or sacrificed for biochemical and histologic evaluation of harvested tissues. Only one of the assays, a physiologic parameter, was altered by the 500x dose. Considering the relatively large dose administered and the limited effects, we conclude that GA would not be toxic when used as a pulpotomy agent. PMID- 2516628 TI - Screening for cancer and coronary risk factors through a nurse practitioner staffed preventive health clinic. AB - The Preventive Health Examination (PHE) program was designed to screen for cancer of the lung, colon, skin, and prostate (or breast) and to detect the risk factors for coronary artery disease, i.e., arterial hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, cigarette smoking, and obesity. To investigate the cost-effectiveness of PHE performed by nurse practitioners, the first 176 subjects enrolled in the PHE program at a northeastern, suburban VA Medical Center were evaluated prospectively. The subjects were recruited through random mailing. The direct cost of PHEs was $80 per patient. PHEs were performed on 171 men and 5 women, mean age 57.2 years, divided into groups according to the date of evaluation. Nine percent of patients had findings highly suspicious of cancer (lung nodules in 7, skin lesions in 9). As a consequence, one patient underwent lobectomy for squamous carcinoma of the lung and another underwent prostatectomy for adenocarcinoma of the prostate. Fifty-five percent of patients had high cholesterol levels, 53% were obese, 30% were heavy cigarette smokers, and 19% were hypertensive. Nineteen percent of the patients had three or more coronary artery disease risk factors. We conclude that low cost PHEs performed by nurse practitioners have a high yield in detecting risk factors for coronary artery disease, and for detecting potentially treatable malignancies. PMID- 2516627 TI - [Effect of antidiabetics on post-exercise alaninemia in patients with non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (type 2)]. AB - A group of 15 patients with controlled insulin-independent diabetes (Type 2) were workloaded submaximally by a 15-minute load on a cycle ergometer and 2-3 days later same workload was repeated, but this time 5-patient groups were administered before the workload: 0.1 j.m. of insulin/kg of body mass i.v., 1.0 g tolbutamide sodium i.v. and 150 mg of phenformin orally one hour before the load. The patients who were injected insulin or tolbutamide were also administered glucose solution (intravenously) so as to keep the same level of glycaemia as in the follow-up examination. The time of metabolic observation after workload was 90 min., so the whole examination took 105 minutes. In the first (follow-up) examination, all the probands had in the venous blood an increase in alanine, lactate, pyruvate and the relation lactate: pyruvate (L/P), a decrease in pH, bicarbonates and pO2 (in capillary afterialized blood). The administration of insulin and tolbutamide eliminated or reduced after-effort alaninaemia increase, whereas the administration of phenformin increased the concentration of this amino acid in the blood after effort. Insulin resulted in a greater increase in after-effort lactacidaemia; besides, insulin and tolbutamide increased the relation L/P during and after effort. The influence of antidiabetic drugs on the behaviour of other biochemical parameters after effort was insignificant. The results obtained show that antidiabetic drugs modify the increase in alaninaemia after effort in patients with controlled insulin-independent diabetes (Type 2), the direction of the modification depending on a specific influence of particular drugs on the metabolism of this amino acid. While evaluating the influence of effort on the concentration of alanine in the blood in patients with this type of diabetes one should consider not only the present demand for this gluconeogenes substrate but also a specific influence of the kind of therapy applied at the time. PMID- 2516629 TI - The role of nucleotide pool alkylation in the induction of numerical chromosome aberrations. PMID- 2516630 TI - Meiotic effects of a mutator in Drosophila melanogaster that potentiates the recovery of terminal deletions. PMID- 2516631 TI - Naloxone-induced analgesia: effects of the benzodiazepine antagonist Ro 15-1788. AB - Repeated exposure to pain under the influence of the opiate antagonists naloxone and naltrexone leads to the recruitment of substantial analgesia as measured by paw-lick latency on the hot-plate test (4,11). One hypothesis to explain this naloxone-induced analgesia (NIA) is that nociceptive stimulation in the face of opiate blockade becomes stressful enough to activate an analgesic adaptation that otherwise would not occur. This hypothesis was examined in two experiments by the administration of a benzodiazepine antagonist with anxiogenic properties (Ro 15 1788, in a dose of 10 mg/kg) in conjunction with repeated administrations of naloxone (5 mg/kg). One experiment incorporated defecation as a relatively direct measure of stress. Ro 15-1788 reliably augmented NIA. Defecation was increased by naloxone alone and in combination with Ro 15-1788. Overall, the results were most consistent with the hypothesis that NIA is a form of stress-induced analgesia that is at least partly nonopiate in nature. PMID- 2516632 TI - The binding of 3H-(3-MeHis2) thyrotropin releasing hormone to brain and pituitary membranes of morphine tolerant-dependent and abstinent rats. AB - The effect of chronic administration of morphine and subsequent withdrawal on brain and pituitary receptors for thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH) was investigated in Sprague-Dawley rats. The rats were implanted subcutaneously with four morphine pellets (each containing 75 mg of morphine free base) during a 3 day period. Placebo pellets, which contained all the excipients of morphine pellets except the morphine, were implanted in rats which served as controls. Both tolerance and physical dependence on morphine have been shown to develop as a result of this procedure. TRH receptors were labeled with 3H-(3-MeHis2) TRH (MeTRH). 3H-MeTRH bound to brain membranes at a single high affinity site with Bmax (receptor density) value of 24.6 +/- 2.2 fmol/mg protein and Kd (apparent dissociation constant) value of 3.7 +/- 0.4 nM. The binding of 3H-MeTRH to five regions of the brain namely, hypothalamus, cortex, striatum, midbrain and pons + medulla, as well as pituitary was also investigated. The binding of 3H-MeTRH to pituitary membranes was increased during the development of tolerance, whereas the binding to membranes prepared from different brain regions was unaffected. Serum concentration of triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) were found to be lower in chronic morphine-treated rats when compared to placebo-treated rats, however, serum TSH level remained unaltered. Twenty-four hours after the removal of morphine pellets (natural withdrawal), the binding of 3H-MeTRH to pons + medulla membranes was greater than in placebo control group. Naloxone precipitated withdrawal produced results which were qualitatively similar to those obtained in rats from which pellets had been removed. The results suggest that the development of tolerance to morphine may be associated with changes in the pituitary-thyroid axis. PMID- 2516633 TI - The antiulcer effect of verapamil in relation to gastric calcium levels in stressed rats. AB - The antiulcer effect of verapamil, and its relationship to stomach calcium levels, were examined in rats restrained at 4 degrees C (stress). Stress for 2 hr significantly increased muscle calcium and induced mucosal ulceration in the gastric glandular segment; calcium concentrations in the glandular mucosa and serum were unaffected. Verapamil or calcium gluconate given 30 min before stress prevented the rise in gastric muscle calcium, and attenuated ulcer severity. Bis(beta-aminoethylether)-NNN'N'-tetra-acetic acid (EGTA) pretreatment, however, further elevated stomach muscle calcium and markedly worsened lesion formation. These findings suggest that increased stomach muscle calcium could be a causal factor in stress-induced gastric glandular ulceration. PMID- 2516634 TI - Serotonergic aspects of acute extrapyramidal syndromes in nonhuman primates. AB - Neuroleptic drug-induced acute extrapyramidal syndromes (EPS) are the major reasons why patients discontinue their antipsychotic medicines. Serotonin S2 antagonists prevent catalepsy in rodents but the effects in nonhuman primates have received only minimal study and deserve further evaluation as potential "non neuroleptic neuroleptics" (antipsychotic effects free of acute EPS). Twenty Cebus monkeys (22 to 28 yrs. old) were tested with compounds that ranged from high to very low D2/S2 ratios. These were haloperidol, clopenthixol, tefludazine, and setoperone, all tested in the dosage range of .01 to .25 mg/kg and compared with saline i.m. once weekly in a random schedule. Dystonia was scored on four different symptoms by an experienced rater blind to drug dosage. All four active compounds produced clinically indistinguishable, dose related dystonia with very similar dose thresholds. In contrast to rodent studies these nonhuman primate investigations with drugs of widely differing D2/S2 antagonism ratios produced clinically similar EPS. Thus adding an S2 antagonism component to neuroleptics appears not to provide a unique approach to neuroleptic therapy which will be free of acute EPS. PMID- 2516635 TI - [Hepatobiliary scintigraphy in the study of neonatal hepatic cholestasis]. AB - Severe neonatal cholestasis is a clinical problem requiring a differential diagnosis of intra- (hepatitis) and extrahepatic (biliary atresia) causes, prognosis and therapy being different in the two cases. Eighteen patients of pediatric age underwent US and hepatobiliary scintigraphy. US findings were aspecific in both hepatitis and biliary atresia. In the 11 patients with hepatitis, hepatobiliary scintigraphy after phenobarbital revealed labeled bile in the bowel. Only in 1 patient with cytomegalovirus hepatitis was a scintigraphic pattern similar to that of biliary atresia. On the contrary, no intestinal radioactivity within 24 hours was seen in 6 patients with biliary atresia. A portoenterostomy (Kasai's operation) was performed on 4/6 cases with biliary atresia. These patients were followed with hepatobiliary scintigraphy in order to evaluate anastomotic functionality. In a case of biliary cirrhosis secondary to occlusion, orthotopic liver transplantation was performed whose success was scintigraphically monitored. Our results point to hepatobiliary scintigraphy after phenobarbital as the best noninvasive procedure for both diagnosis and postoperative follow-up of biliary atresia. Labeled bile excretion within 24 hours was rarely found in both atresia and neonatal hepatitis. PMID- 2516636 TI - [The major histocompatibility complex of West African cattle. Typing of lymphocyte antigens (BoLA) of Baoule cattle (Bos taurus) and Sudanese zebus (Bos indicus) of Burkina Faso (West Africa)]. AB - Lymphocyte antigen (BoLA) typing on 247 Baoule cattle (Bos taurus) and 106 Sudanese zebus (Bos indicus), allowed us to determine gene frequencies of 43 class 1 specificities, as international "W" and European "EU", as African local from Kenya "KN" and Burkina Faso "BF". In comparing these frequencies, it appears that some specificities could be considered as significant breed markers for Baoule cattle and zebus. PMID- 2516637 TI - Sequences homologous to the listeriolysin O gene region of Listeria monocytogenes are present in virulent and avirulent haemolytic species of the genus Listeria. AB - Various parts of the hlyA gene region of Listeria monocytogenes which encodes a major virulence factor, listeriolysin O, have been used to detect the presence of homologous sequences in other species of the genus Listeria. Under low-stringency hybridization conditions, sequences homologous to the hlyA gene and its 5' adjacent regions were detected in the haemolytic and pathogenic species L. ivanovii, and in the haemolytic but non-pathogenic species L. seeligeri. In contrast, the region located downstream from hlyA appeared specific to L. monocytogenes. None of the probes spanning the region revealed homologies between L. monocytogenes and the non-pathogenic and non-haemolytic members of the genus, L. innocua, L. murrayi and L. welshimeri. Among various strains of L. monocytogenes tested, the gene hlyA and its 3' adjacent region appeared well conserved. In contrast, a restriction length polymorphism was detected in the region located upstream from hlyA with no obvious correlation with the haemolytic phenotype or the serovar of the strains tested. PMID- 2516638 TI - Prevention of severe lower respiratory infections in patients with cystic fibrosis. AB - Infection of the lower respiratory tract is the most frequent cause of death in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the predominant pulmonary pathogen; it establishes a chronic endobronchial infection and once acquired is rarely if ever eradicated. Although optimizing nutrition and pulmonary toilet improves the general health of patients with CF, bacterial respiratory infections are neither prevented nor cured. Likewise, attempts to prevent colonization and infection by means of antimicrobial prophylaxis have been generally unsuccessful. Since no effective radical cure for CF pulmonary infections has been found yet, means of preventing respiratory tract colonization have been sought. Immunization of patients who are already colonized with P aeruginosa has failed to eradicate colonization. Vaccines are therefore being sought that will forestall colonization by P aeruginosa, either by preventing adhesion to respiratory mucosa or by enhancing other immunological host defenses. PMID- 2516639 TI - Role of gamma globulin. AB - The introduction of preparations of immune serum globulin that are safe for intravenous use (IVIG) has made possible safe and effective prophylactic treatment for patients with a variety of humoral immunodeficiencies. These include not only primary agammaglobulinemia and common variable hypogammaglobulinemia but also the antibody deficiencies that accompany chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and multiple myeloma, as well as the hypogamma globulinemia found in very low birth weight newborns who have not received adequate transplacental IgG from their mothers. In contrast, trials to date have not shown efficacy of IVIG in preventing sepsis in burn patients. The ease of administration and efficacy of IVIG in preventing respiratory symptoms in hypogammaglobulinemic patients has suggested that many other patients presenting with sinusitis and asthma, recurrent bronchitis, and other chronic chest symptoms might also benefit from IVIG and that they should be worked up for IgG subclass or specific antibody deficiencies. Side effects of IVIG administration are generally minor and may be prevented by slow administration and/or pretreatment with aspirin or Benadryl. The only contraindication to IVIG treatment is anaphylactic sensitivity to IgA, which is extremely rare. IVIG is thus an effective and safe form of prophylaxis that can reduce the incidence of pneumonia and other respiratory infections in patients with antibody deficiency as a predisposing factor. PMID- 2516640 TI - Colonization with potentially pathogenic respiratory tract bacteria. A household study. AB - A group of 235 persons (180 adults and 55 children 0-15 years old) recorded symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection daily during two three-month periods (autumn 1986 and spring 1987). Samples for culture were taken from the nasopharynx and throat once during each period. Fifteen per cent of asymptomatic subjects harboured respiratory pathogens in the nasopharynx, as did 28% of those subjects with minor respiratory tract infections and 46% of those with more severe respiratory tract infections. Of children up to seven years of age, 58% were colonized with potential respiratory pathogens, which is important to keep in mind when evaluating culture reports from young children. Adults living with young children were colonized significantly more often than other adults. Branhamella catarrhalis was the most common pathogen. PMID- 2516641 TI - Prevention of electrocardiographic and histopathologic alterations in the murine model of Chagas' disease by preinoculation of an attenuated Trypanosoma cruzi strain. AB - The effects of infection with Trypanosoma cruzi on the electrocardiographic tracings of mice were studied in 4 groups of animals: (1) normal; (2) infected with a pathogenic T. cruzi strain (TS COB); (3) immunized with 3 intraperitoneal inocula of 10(6) attenuated T. cruzi epimastigotes (TCC) and (4) immunized infected, which sequentially received the treatments of groups 3 and 2. Infection and protection were confirmed by xenodiagnosis and histopathology. Isolated alterations such as extrasystolia, 1st degree atrioventricular block, arrhythmia and ST elevation were observed in normal as well as infected mice. However, tracings taken repeatedly on each mouse over a 293 day period revealed a set of alterations which were more frequently seen in infected (14/22) than in normal (4/27) animals (p = 0.00048). These alterations consisted of supraventricular tachycardia, sinus bradycardia and persisting, first degree AV blocks, often associated to pacemaker changes. Inoculation of attenuated T. cruzi (group 3) did not increase these alterations (2/27 mice) but significantly prevented their development after challenge with the pathogenic strain (1/19 versus 14/22 mice, p = 0.000095). Thus, preimmunization reduced not only parasitemia but also a pathogenic consequence of T. cruzi infection. This evidence is relevant for immunoprevention studies against Chagas' disease. PMID- 2516642 TI - [1st register of an epidemic caused by Oropouche virus in the states of Maranhao and Goias, Brazil]. AB - The authors describe the occurrence of outbreaks caused by Oropouche virus (ORO) in the states of Maranhao and Goias, Brazil in 1988. 36 strains of the virus were obtained from the intracerebral inoculation of the blood of 120 patients into 2-3 day-old infant mice. The illness was characterized by headache, fever, pain in the muscles, joints and back, photophobia, retrobulbar pain, nausea and dizziness. 128 of 197 people examined in Porto Franco, MA, had hemagglutination inhibiting antibodies to the agent, while 106 of them had IgM antibodies by MAC ELISA test. All age groups were infected, although the incidence was higher among who had 10 to 19 years old. There was no difference, in relation to sex infections. Recurrence of symptoms was reported in 56% of sick people. Mice inoculated with 3624 Culicoides paraensis (Ceratopogonidae) and 1970 Culex (Cux.) quinquefasciatus (Culicidae) collected in Porto Franco resulted in one single isolation of ORO virus, from the Culicoides. These are the first confirmed cases of ORO infection in Maranhao and Goias states. PMID- 2516644 TI - [Quality appraisal in nursing care]. PMID- 2516643 TI - 3,4,3',4'-tetrachlorobiphenyl-induced effects in the rat liver. II. Electron microscopic autoradiographic localization of 3H-TCB. AB - Recent results (3) indicate that 200 mg 3,4,3',4'-tetrachlorobiphenyl induces hepatomegaly accompanied by significant decreases in serum and hepatic retinoid content and hepatocyte morphologic alterations of proliferated and vesiculated endoplasmic reticulum and megamitochondria with paracrystalline inclusions. There was also an associated change in the number, size, and distribution of lipid droplets in hepatocytes and fat-storing cells. Electron microscopic autoradiographic techniques were utilized to determine the cellular and subcellular distribution of 3H-3,4,3',4'-tetrachlorobiphenyl (3H-TCB) in the adult rat liver and determine if there is any relationship between subcellular morphologic change and radiolabel localization. Adult female WAG/Rij rats received a single intraperitoneal injection of 200 mg TCB/kg containing 1.85 mCi of 3H-TCB and were sacrificed at 1, 3, 7, and 14 days following exposure. The vast majority of 3H-TCB-derived radioactivity was located in the hepatocyte at all time points examined, ranging from 79-86% of the total number of autoradiographic grains counted over the liver cells. Sequential order of radiolabel localization per liver cell type at 1, 3, and 7 days was hepatocyte much greater than Kupffer cell greater than fat-storing cell greater than endothelial cell. At day 14, the sequential order of radiolabel localization per liver cell type was hepatocyte much greater than fat-storing cell greater than Kupffer cell greater than endothelial cell, which indicates that there was some shift movement of label over time. The lipid droplet, mitochondria, and endoplasmic reticulum were the subcellular structures or organelles of hepatocytes having the highest number of 3H-TCB-derived grains at all time periods examined.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2516645 TI - [Fresh fruit with a median content of glucides (8 to 15%). A dietetic menu]. PMID- 2516646 TI - [Will Japanese white blood be coursing through our veins? A revolution: the first synthetic blood will soon be commercialized]. PMID- 2516647 TI - [A reliable index for the self diagnosis of the woman's fertile period. Self observation of the cervix]. PMID- 2516648 TI - [The change in position of the uterus in the menstrual cycle]. PMID- 2516649 TI - [The nurse/patient relationship within the psychiatric and nonpsychiatric environment]. PMID- 2516650 TI - [Reducing the risk of a venous gas embolism]. PMID- 2516651 TI - [Liver diseases due to drugs]. PMID- 2516652 TI - [Obesity and rheumatism]. PMID- 2516655 TI - [Beta-carotene. Provitamin A, a nutritional factor for protection from certain cancers]. PMID- 2516654 TI - [Tobacco kills a million persons a year]. PMID- 2516653 TI - [The reeducation of the patient with rheumatoid polyarthritis]. PMID- 2516656 TI - [Dynamics of metastasis of breast cancer to the bones]. AB - A total of 120 cases with Stages I (n = 32) and IIa (n = 88) mammary carcinoma who later developed metastases to the bones are analyzed. The authors come to a conclusion that the time course of the metastases development directly depends on the tumor process stage. Postoperative thiophosphamide chemotherapy is the most effective method for the prevention of metastases to the bones; postoperative radiotherapy is conducive to a most rapid dissemination of the metastases in the bones. PMID- 2516657 TI - [Medical long-term services for patients suffering from diseases with unfavorable prognosis]. PMID- 2516658 TI - [Microbiological characteristics of suppurative-necrotic foot diseases in diabetes mellitus]. PMID- 2516659 TI - [Intestinal schistosomiasis and ancylostomiasis]. PMID- 2516660 TI - [Estimate of the cost/benefit ratio of measles vaccination]. AB - Among primary health care programs, one of those that has the highest benefit/cost ratio is measles immunization. An estimate of cases, complicated cases and deaths that could have occurred if such immunization program would not have been run, and costs of medical care (hospitalization, physician's visits, medical treatment and rehabilitation), were calculated. Since population at risk has a steady-state given by those who enter -births- and releave it -when they are 15 years old-, if the program did not exist more than 2 million cases and at least 60,000 deaths from measles would have occurred annually. This hypothetical situation is compared with the actual situation of measles in Mexico during the 80's; 1) no more than 100,000 cases could have been estimated to occur in the very extreme case of notifying only one out of 10 cases. 2) The proportions of vaccinated and immune children under five reach 70 percent; this situation has produced 3) a fade out of epidemicity and has increased the critical size of community population for epidemics and doubled the interepidemic interval with the corollary of 4) increasing the average age of infection. The average cost of vaccinating a child was estimated near 1.25 dollars (US). Estimated costs of disease are related to individual losses. Taking into account these factors, benefit/cost ratio of measles immunization in Mexico is, at least, 100:1. Measles transmission patterns in Mexico are discussed since they lead to increase the benefit/cost ratio as compared to countries where the age of infection was put up before the immunization era. To expand investments on measles immunization is recommended. PMID- 2516661 TI - Thromboxane A2 generation by human umbilical endothelial cells. AB - Human umbilical endothelial cells were examined for their ability to release thromboxane A2 (TXA2) and prostacyclin (PGI2). We could show that the basal, unstimulated release of the two eicosanoids was inversely related to the cell density. At a density of 100,000 cells/cm2 TXA2 release was 0.062 +/- 0.28 fg/cell/h and PGI2 release was 0.184 +/- 0.051 fg/cell/h, whereas at a cell density of 20,000 cells/cm2 the cells released 1.075 +/- 0.055 fg TXA2/cell/h and 1.653 +/- 0.09 fg PGI2/cell/h. In stimulation experiments ATP and ADP significantly (p less than 0.001) increased the TXA2 and the PGI2 release. ANF caused a slow but still significant (p less than 0.001) enhancement of TXA2 release. Thrombin and ionophore A23187 caused the strongest stimulatory response, resulting in a significantly (p less than 0.001) increased release of both eicosanoids. PMID- 2516663 TI - Plasma levels of t-PA:Ag under standard heparin therapy. PMID- 2516662 TI - Fibrinolytic response in normal subjects to venous occlusion and DDAVP infusion. AB - A set of fibrinolytic parameters was measured in 40 healthy subjects before and after a venous occlusion (VO) test lasting 10 min. After VO, plasma levels of tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA) antigen increased in all subjects, t-PA activity increased only in 25 subjects who were considered responders and remained unchanged in 15 (non-responders). High levels of plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI) in the non-responder group explain this discrepancy. The non responders had basal levels of PAI activity and t-PA antigen higher than responders (p less than 0.0001) and their basal levels of t-PA activity were lower (p less than 0.001). DDAVP infusion elicited good responses in 7 of 9 non responders to VO with a fall of PAI activity to 0. Our data indicate that a high proportion of healthy subjects do not have a fibrinolytic response after VO, that a lack of fibrinolytic response to VO is due to high plasma levels of PAI and that DDAVP infusion appear to be more selective than VO for detecting non responders. PMID- 2516664 TI - Comparison of antigenic reactivity between intracellular and extracellular rickettsiae of spotted fever group. AB - Antigens of intracellular rickettsiae in Vero cells persistently infected with Japanese YH strain of the spotted fever group (Rickettsia japonica sp. nov.) reacted in the immunofluorescence test with sera from patients to the same extent by IgG antibody titration as did antigens of extracellular rickettsiae prepared from culture fluid of lytically infected BHK cells. On the other hand, IgM antibody titers measured with intracellular rickettsiae in Vero cells were significantly higher in some cases than those obtained with extracellular rickettsiae. Antigens of intracellular rickettsiae in BHK cells infected with the Japanese strain reacted with patient's sera to the same extent as those in Vero cells. PMID- 2516665 TI - [Tubinger implant]. PMID- 2516666 TI - [Therapy phase of oral implantation. Indications, clinical and prosthetic aspects]. PMID- 2516667 TI - [Goethe--human patient]. PMID- 2516668 TI - [The suppression of rapid local surface oscillations in human erythrocytes slows and weakens their adhesion to glass]. AB - Rapid local oscillations of the erythrocyte surface with amplitude 200-300 nm are decreased by 10 times following addition of wheat germ agglutinin (10(-77) M). In this case the rate of erythrocyte adhesion to the cover glass is delayed approximately by 3-9 times. The total suppression of erythrocyte surface oscillations occurs in hypo-osmic solution or in a 0.01% solution of glutaraldehyde. It coincides with a two-fold decrease of erythrocyte adhesivity to the glass. It is suggested that the rapid erythrocyte surface oscillations may control the rate of cell adhesion to the substrate. PMID- 2516669 TI - Treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis with short course chemotherapy in south India -5-year follow up. AB - A controlled clinical trial of three short-course chemotherapy regimens was undertaken in patients with newly diagnosed bacteriologically positive pulmonary tuberculosis. The patients were randomly allocated to receive one of three regimens: rifampicin, streptomycin, isoniazid and pyrazinamide daily for 2 months, followed by streptomycin, isoniazid and pyrazinamide twice weekly for 3 months (R/5) or for 5 months (R/7), or the same regimen as R/7 but without rifampicin (Z/7). A bacteriological relapse requiring retreatment occurred by 5 years in 7.1% of 126 R/5, 4.0% of 124 R/7 and 6.7% of 253 Z/7 patients with organisms initially sensitive to streptomycin and isoniazid; none of these differences is statistically significant. Of the 31 relapses, 16 occurred within 2 years of the completion of chemotherapy and the remaining 15 between 2 and 5 years. Among 65 patients with initial drug resistance to streptomycin or isoniazid or both, there were six bacteriological relapses requiring retreatment. PMID- 2516670 TI - High initial drug resistance in pulmonary tuberculosis in Ghana. AB - Between July 1985 and March 1987, initial sensitivity to anti-tuberculosis drugs was studied in patients presenting at the Chest Clinic of Agogo Hospital in the forest area of Ghana. Culture and sensitivity test results were obtained in 99 out of 123 consecutive patients with pulmonary tuberculosis who claim not to have received previous treatment. Isoniazid resistance was alarmingly high in the isolates of M. tuberculosis: 21 out of 57 (37%), and thiacetazone resistance was very high in the M. africanum isolates: 20 out of 42 (47%). Overall resistance was high: 27% to isoniazid, 23% to streptomycin, 29% to thiacetazone, 16% to both streptomycin and isoniazid, and 5% to all of these three drugs. Only 45% of the isolates were sensitive to all three drugs. Primary drug resistance to rifampicin, pyrazinamide or ethambutol was not observed. Besides the standard treatment of isoniazid, streptomycin and thiacetazone, rifampicin and pyrazinamide were usually added for the first two months of treatment. Of 13 patients who received standard treatment only, 4 of the 5 patients with resistant organisms who could be followed up failed to respond, whereas there were no failures to respond in the 5 corresponding patients with initially sensitive organisms; 3 patients could not be assessed because they defaulted. PMID- 2516671 TI - Total and anti-mycobacterial IgE levels in serum from patients with tuberculosis and leprosy. AB - A radioallergosorbent assay (RAST) was developed and used to determine the levels of IgE antibodies to soluble antigens of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (BCG vaccine strain) in sera from patients with tuberculosis and leprosy and in healthy control subjects. Total IgE levels in the same sera were quantitated with a commercial radioimmunoassay kit. Patients with tuberculosis and leprosy had higher total and specific IgE levels than the control groups but the overlap of levels in patients and controls was too great to render the difference diagnostically useful. Specific IgE levels were elevated in both tuberculosis and leprosy patients, suggesting that this antibody response is towards the shared mycobacterial antigens. No differences in total or specific IgE levels were found between healthy hospital workers occupationally exposed to patients with tuberculosis and factory workers who are not exposed. PMID- 2516672 TI - The value of routine bronchial aspirate culture at fibreoptic bronchoscopy for the diagnosis of tuberculosis. AB - We review the results of bronchial aspirate culture for mycobacteria sent routinely in a series of 1734 fibreoptic bronchoscopic procedures. The incidence of tuberculosis in the series was 8.3% (144 cases). Of these cases, a positive bronchial aspirate culture was obtained in 119 (82.6%) cases, and it was the exclusive means of diagnosis in 64 (44.4%). In 66% of these cases tuberculosis was not suspected at the time of bronchoscopy. Our results suggest that in an area with a high prevalence of tuberculosis, routine bronchial aspirate culture is a useful adjunct to diagnosis. PMID- 2516673 TI - Infection of bovine monocyte/macrophage populations with Theileria annulata and Theileria parva. AB - Infection and transformation of cells of the bovine immune system by Theileria annulata and T. parva were compared. Preliminary experiments with mammary gland macrophages indicated that they were permissive to infection by T. annulata but only to a limited extent by T. parva. Further experiments involved several purified subpopulations of bovine cells including bovine monocytes, T cells and MHC class II positive and negative populations. These subpopulations were incubated with T. annulata or T. parva sporozoites in limiting dilution cultures. T. annulata preferentially infected macrophage type cells and also MHC class II positive cells, whereas the frequency of MHC class II negative cells infected by this parasite was negligible. T cells also showed a very low level of infection. In complete contrast, T. parva preferentially infected T cells and did not infect cells phenotypically defined as monocytes at all. These results suggested that class II expression was necessary for T. annulata infection and not necessary for, though not a barrier to T. parva infection. T. annulata infected cell lines all expressed class II molecules to varying degrees. Other available phenotypic markers were only expressed at very low levels or no longer expressed. The immunological significance of the different cell preferences and phenotypes of infected cell lines of T. annulata and T. parva is discussed. PMID- 2516674 TI - Recombinant bovine interferon-gamma enhances expression of class I and class II bovine lymphocyte antigens. AB - Recombinant bovine interferon-gamma augments expression of class I and class II histocompatibility antigens on the surface membrane of bovine lymphocytes. Immunofluorescence techniques using a series of monoclonal anti-HLA antibodies demonstrate that this enhancement is detectable as early as 24 h after incubation with rBoIFN, while maximum surface expression is obtained within 3-5 days. A concentration as low as 10 units of rBoIFN is effective. Such results may be useful for characterizing the BoLA gene products. PMID- 2516675 TI - The intercellular canalicular system in the endocrine pancreas. A putative dynamic formation. AB - A system of intercellular spaces in the islets of Langerhans of the rat pancreas was found after 6-hydroxydopamine treatment being absent in the control animals. Therefore, we propose that the intercellular canalicular system occurs in response to increased secretory activity of the islets. PMID- 2516676 TI - Calcium-imaging with Fura-2 in isolated cerebral microvessels. AB - Cerebral microvessels were isolated from rat hippocampus with a modified, mild collagenase digestion and loaded with the calcium fluoroprobe, Fura-2. Using a fluorescence microscope with quartz optics and an image analyser, it was possible to measure the intracellular concentration of free calcium ions [Ca2+]i in single microvessels for the first time. A resting level of (90 +/- 28) nmol/l (+/- SD, n = 24) was calculated which immediately rose after ionomycin application. The temporal resolution for [Ca2+]i of our set-up was 0.7 s. By image processing, sequences of digitized fluorescence images of single microvessels were colour coded in terms of [Ca2+]i with a spatial resolution up to 1.5 microns (pixel size). Both the temporal and spatial resolution make our system suitable for investigation of calcium-mobilizing receptors of the blood-brain barrier. PMID- 2516677 TI - Attempt to visualize an endogenous lectin recognizing alpha-L-fucose immunohistochemically in the rabbit oviduct. AB - An immunohistochemical study was conducted in order to visualize an endogenous lectin, having specificity for alpha-L-fucose residues, in the ampullary and isthmic tracts of the rabbit oviduct. 2 different sequences (S1 and S2) were tested using antilectin UEA I antibody. Reactive sites towards S2 sequence were localized at ciliated cell level in the ampulla; in the isthmus, instead, the staining was present both in ciliated and secretory cells. A role in the sugar immobilization and gamete and zygote protection was postulated for the endogenous lectin evidenced. PMID- 2516678 TI - Cytoskeletal alterations in the microvilli of uterine epithelial cells during early pregnancy. AB - We have studied the arrangement of microfilaments in uterine microvilli during early pregnancy, using transmission electron microscopy and immunofluorescence microscopy. Observations indicate that changes in actin microfilament organization occur in association with the alterations to the uterine cell surface which precede blastocyst implantation. We consider these findings with reference to the possible mechanisms involved. PMID- 2516679 TI - [Demonstration of glycogen in human oviduct epithelium]. AB - The ultrahistochemical findings show that, in the oviductal epithelium of the ageing woman, glycogen particles are detectable in the basal bodies of the ciliated cells. The polysaccharide could be considered to be a reserve of energy in the ciliary action. PMID- 2516680 TI - Acetylcholinesterase in the alimentary canal of fish: light and electron microscopic detection, quantitative distribution in different segments of the gut. AB - The acetylcholinesterase activity was measured and histochemically localized in the alimentary tract of 2 fish species, carp (Cyprinus carpio) and tench (Tinca tinca). A comparison was made of the activities in the different gut segments. Light and electron microscopic histochemistry revealed acetylcholinesterase positive cell bodies along the entire length of the alimentary canal in both species, between the muscular layers. Acetylcholinesterase-positive, cholinergic motor endplates were frequent in the esophagus of both carp and tench, and they were also present in the striated muscular layers of the tench stomach and midgut. The enzyme activity detected by the method of Ellman et al. (1961) was highest (16.3 U/mg protein) in the tench foregut and midgut, while it was at the same lower level (9.5 U/mg protein) in each segment of the carp gut and in the tench hindgut. The morphological findings and the higher acetylcholinesterase activity in the tench foregut and midgut suggest that the enteric striated musculature is endowed with denser cholinergic innervation than the enteric smooth musculature. PMID- 2516682 TI - The immunohistochemical reactivity of an anti-epithelial monoclonal antibody (b 12) in meningiomas. AB - Studies on immunohistochemical localization of the epitope b-12 were performed in 15 meningiomas using an indirect immunoperoxidase method. 2 of 15 meningiomas stained for b-12. The b-12 antigen represents a further epithelial marker detectable in meningiomas. PMID- 2516681 TI - [Investigations on methods of quantitative polarization optical estimation of neutral carbohydrates in extracellular matrix]. AB - By means of the fluorescence PAS-reaction using a Schiff-type reagent substituted with acriflavine, the neutral carbohydrates were demonstrable selectively in the human trophoblast basement membrane. The reaction product is characterized by a typical birefringence that can be measured in the polarized light. The results obtained from ascertainment of the dispersion of the birefringence before and after the histochemical reaction, as well, gave further evidence for specificity and a definite improvement of the measurement of path differences. PMID- 2516683 TI - Immunohistochemical localization of VIP and Met-enkephalin in the rabbit submandibular and sublingual glands. AB - The existence and distribution of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), and Met-enkephalin pentapeptide were investigated by means of the peroxidase antiperoxidase (PAP) technique in rabbit submandibular and sublingual glands. In the submandibular gland, VIP immunostaining was observed in some peripheral acinar cells, while in sublingual one VIP positive fibres surrounded semilunes. Ductal cells of both glands were also reactive. These findings suggested a role of VIP in regulating volume and composition of salivary secretion. PMID- 2516684 TI - Distribution of glycoconjugates in human skin appendages. AB - The purpose of this paper is to describe the occurrence and distribution of glycoconjugates in normal human epidermis and skin appendages (pilosebaceous unit, eccrine sweat gland) by means of FITC-labelled lectins (ConA, WGA, UEA I). Both the outer hair root and the follicular ostium-epithel disclosed a glycoconjugate expression with close homology to interfollicular epidermis. The acinar epithelium of sebaceous glands and the inner layers of hair follicles showed a more or less distinct staining pattern. Lectin binding of eccrine sweat glands revealed marked differences between ducts and secretory coils. The epithelial distribution of glycoconjugates indicates a relatively independent differentiation pathway of eccrine sweat glands compared with other specialized epithelia of the human skin. PMID- 2516685 TI - Histochemical localization of alpha-amylase in the pancreas of pike (Esox lucius) by indirect immunofluorescence. AB - alpha-amylase is an enzyme, rarely detected histochemically. Only a few examples are known in mammals. A method is described for the histochemical detection of an alpha-amylase in the pancreas of pike using a rabbit antiserum against pike amylase and FITC-labelled anti-rabbit immunoglobulin. PMID- 2516686 TI - Acid phosphatase in lymphoid tissues of developing chick embryos. AB - Activity of acid phosphatase (ACPase) in bursa and thymus has been determined in developing chick embryos of either normal or treated with bovine serum albumin (BSA). From the study of light microscopical histochemistry, ACPase activity could be detected in cytoplasm. These ACPase activities were detected in both the follicular medulla and cortex in bursa. In thymus, moderate ACPase activities were also obtained in both the cortex and medulla. ACPase activity in the tissue homogenate was increased in the bursa but the thymic ones showed constant level during the incubation days examined in normal embryos. ACPase distribution observed at the distinct developing stage indicates that ACPase is a useful parameter for growth and development of chicken lymphoid tissues. PMID- 2516687 TI - Middle ear vibration and sound pressure measurements in the isolated cochlea preparation. PMID- 2516689 TI - Problem behavior in adolescence. PMID- 2516688 TI - Effects of glutaraldehyde and metabolic inhibitors on the vibratory responses in the isolated cochlea. PMID- 2516690 TI - Effects of drugs and fatty acids related to Reye syndrome on brain water content in rats. AB - Brain water content was measured by gas-chromatography in rats following intraperitoneal injection of drugs and fatty acids related to the etiology of Reye syndrome. A statistically significant increase in brain water content was observed following injection of 5% glucose solution, valproic acid, acetyl salicylic acid, calcium hopantenate, margosa oil, 4-pentenoic acid, linolenate and arachidonate. Seizures occurred in all animals given valproic acid, margosa oil and 4-pentenoic acid, and in 25% of those given 5% glucose solution + anti diuretic hormone. The results of these studies may help in the selection of appropriate agents for experimental induction of acute encephalopathy and brain edema in animal models of Reye syndrome. PMID- 2516692 TI - Analysis of urinary and circulating FDP subfragments and subunits: application of the western-blot technique. AB - We applied the Western-blot technique for qualifying fibrin/fibrinogen degradation products (FDP) subfragments and subunits. With this technique we examined urine or serum samples from patients with glomerulonephritis and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), in order to observe how primary or secondary fibrinolysis functioned under these pathological conditions. We also tested the antigenic recognition of several FDP antibodies with this technique. The results obtained were as follows: 1) FDP in serum samples from patients with DIC consisted of both fibrinogenolytic and fibrinolytic products; 2) Fibrinolysis was predominant in the serum from one patient with Henoch-Schonlein purpura nephritis, and its level increased after fibrinolytic therapy with urokinase; 3) Fibrinogen and fibrin polymers were always the major components of urinary FDP, although fibrinolytic products such as subfragment D-D dimer were detected in patients with glomerular disease and increased in acute exacerbation; 4) Anti-FDP D-D dimer monoclonal antibody (DD 3B6), which is usually considered to react specifically with cross-linked fibrin derivatives, also seemed to have cross reactivity with non-crosslinked fibrin derivatives. PMID- 2516691 TI - Serum anti-PT and anti-FHA antibody levels, and agglutinin titers after administration of acellular pertussis vaccines. AB - Simultaneous evaluation of acellular pertussis vaccines from three manufacturers (Takeda, Biken, and Chiba) was performed. After receiving two doses of acellular pertussis vaccine in the form of DPT (diphtheria pertussis tetanus), both infants and children showed high serum anti-PT (pertussis toxin) and anti-FHA (filamentous hemagglutinin) antibody levels. These levels were equivalent to those observed in children in the convalescent stage of natural pertussis infection. Children who received 2 doses of Biken vaccine showed higher anti-PT and anti-FHA antibody levels than those who received Takeda or Chiba vaccine. Elevation of agglutinin titers was observed in children who received either Takeda or Chiba vaccine. PMID- 2516694 TI - Infantile autism and the fragile X syndrome in Japanese children. AB - A total of 97 children with infantile autism, 85 boys and 12 girls, were screened for the fragile X chromosome. They ranged in age from 2 to 14 years with an average of 5 5/12 years. There were two fra(X) positive boys and no such girls. PMID- 2516693 TI - Very long-chain fatty acids in erythrocyte membrane phospholipids in adrenoleukodystrophy. AB - Mass fragmentography was used to analyze the very long-chain fatty acid (VLCFA) composition of erythrocyte membrane phospholipids. The VLCFA content decreased in the order sphingomyelin (SM), phosphatidylcholine (PC) and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE). The tetracosanoic acid (C24:0) and hexacosanoic acid (C26:0) content of both SM and PC in patients with adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) were significantly higher than those in controls. The VLCFA content of PE was too small, in comparison with those of SM, to be accurately determined. PMID- 2516696 TI - Carboxyhemoglobin measurements in the diagnosis of ABO hemolytic disease. AB - To assess hemolysis in hyperbilirubinemic infants with ABO isoimmunization, we measured the carboxyhemoglobin (HbCO) concentrations in full-term infants with ABO isoimmunization during the first week of life. Two groups of infants, ABO compatible (n = 34) and ABO incompatible (n = 30), were further divided into two groups with and without hyperbilirubinemia. All the infants from ABO incompatible pregnancies showed a positive indirect Coombs' test. The groups with hyperbilirubinemia included infants with maximum serum total bilirubin levels about 15 mg/dL and infants treated by phototherapy or exchange transfusion. In the ABO incompatible infants, the HbCO levels in those with hyperbilirubinemia were significantly higher than in infants without hyperbilirubinemia during the first week after birth (p less than 0.01 at 24, 72, 120 hours after birth, respectively). The levels of HbCO in the ABO incompatible infants with hyperbilirubinemia were significantly higher compared with the levels in the ABO compatible infants with hyperbilirubinemia (p less than 0.05 at 24 hours, p less than 0.01 at 72 and 120 hours after birth, respectively). HbCO measurement may facilitate the early diagnosis of hemolytic disease and the prediction of jaundice caused by ABO isoimmunization. PMID- 2516695 TI - Mother's attitudes towards the mass screening of neuroblastoma. AB - Two hundred and two mothers whose infants participated in mass screening of neuroblastoma in Sapporo City, and 200 mothers whose infants did not, were interviewed about their attitudes towards the mass screening. Only a few non participants (3.5%) thought the mass screening was unnecessary. More than half of non-participations (56.0%) were due to mothers' forgetfulness or to loss of the "Neuroblastoma Screening Examination Set" during the two months' interval between the delivery of the set and the sample submission. Mailing of the set at six months for the purpose of eliminating this interval would greatly reduce such neglect of the mass screening. On the other hand, not many infants would participate in re-screening for detection of false negative cases, since the percentage of mothers who were willing to make their children take part in re screening for a fee of 1,000 yen (about 7 U.S. dollars, which would be administratively necessary) was less than 60%. PMID- 2516697 TI - The effects of hepatitis B vaccination on infants born to carriers without HBe antigenemia. AB - A retrospective study on fifty-three patients born to hepatitis B surface antigen (HBs antigen) positive mothers was carried out. Among 17 patients born to hepatitis B e antigen (HBe antigen) negative mothers, six patients received hepatitis B(HB) vaccination and eleven did not. None of the six patients who had received HB vaccination showed seroconversion, while six of the 11 patients (54.5%) without HB vaccination did show seroconversion. There was no definite correlation between the frequency of seroconversion and the administration of HB immune globulin (HBIG). HB vaccination alone may be sufficient to protect infants born to HBe antigen negative mothers from HB viral infection. PMID- 2516699 TI - Evaluation and comparison of the axis of the interventricular septum by two dimensional echocardiography among the patients with congenital heart disease (ASD, VSD, PDA, PS, TOF) and the normal subjects. AB - A two-dimensional echocardiographic method was applied to determine the axis of interventricular septum (IVS) in the horizontal plane. This study comprised 19 subjects with ASD, 15 subjects with VSD(I), 20 subjects with VSD(II), 13 subjects with PDA, 16 subjects with PS, 15 subjects with TOF and 99 normal children. Parasternal left ventricular short axis view was taken, and the IVS was recorded by using the polaroid prints. The axis of the IVS in the horizontal plane was measured from the recorded polaroid prints. The value of the angularity of IVS (IVS-A) expressed as means +/- one standard deviation (mean +/- 1S.D.) is 52.0 +/ 13.7 degrees in ASD, 42.2 +/- 9.7 degrees in VSD(I), 43.7 +/- 9.1 degrees in VSD(II), 41.6 +/- 11.4 degrees in PDA, 38.6 +/- 10.9 degrees in PS, 61.0 +/- 8.5 degrees in TOF and 40.1 +/- 8.2 degrees in normal controls. There was no significant difference among VSD(I), VSD(II), PDA, PS and normal controls but a highly significant difference was noted in ASD and TOF as compared to other groups. The correlation coefficient of the IVS-A with (1) the Qp/Qs ratio, (2) the magnitude of shunt (%), (3) the right ventricular pressure and (4) the hematocrits were evaluated among the patient groups. The IVS-A of ASD and VSD(II) had a good correlation with the shunt flow (r = 0.921 and 0.88 respectively) and/or the Qp/Qs ratio (r = 0.782 and 0.955 respectively); while that of VSD(I), PDA, and PS had a good correlation with the right ventricular pressure (r = 0.956, 0.953, 0.842 respectively) and that of TOF was mostly concerned with the hematocrits (r = 0.911). Besides, the IVS-A in each severe CHD subgroup was significantly (p less than 0.005 or a better value) higher than the normal control group. Thus an alternative method was validated for evaluating the severity of congenital heart disease by using a noninvasive two-dimensional echocardiographic technique. PMID- 2516698 TI - Prevention of vertical transmission of hepatitis B virus by yeast recombinant hepatitis B vaccine. AB - In order to prevent vertical transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV), yeast recombinant HB vaccine at a dose of either 5 mcg or 10 mcg was administered to 185 infants born to mothers who were positive for HBs antigen (HBsAg). All of them developed antibody to HBsAg (anti-HBs) after three vaccinations. Generally, the cut-off index (COI) of anti-HBs by radioimmunoassay (RIA) was higher in the 10 mcg dosage group than in the 5 mcg dosage group. The geometric mean titer (GMT) of anti-HBs, as measured by quantitative RIA, in the former group was 2.4 times that in the latter one month after the third vaccination. The incidence of clinical reactions was only 4% in a total of 561 injections, and none of the reactions were severe. It is concluded that recombinant HB vaccine is safe and has excellent immunogenicity for infants requiring prevention of HBV vertical transmission. It is also suggested that 10 mcg doses of the recombinant HB vaccine can provide more solid protection to high-risk infants without serious adverse reactions. PMID- 2516700 TI - Two cases of cystic fibrosis in Japanese children: studies on the essential fatty acid and prostaglandin metabolism. AB - We describe the fatty acid (FA) and prostaglandin (PG) metabolism in two Japanese cases of cystic fibrosis (CF) with or without pancreatic insufficiency (PI). The diagnosis of CF was based on the elevated sweat chloride concentration by pilocarpine iontophoresis. A 1-month-old boy (case 1) showed poor weight gain, steatorrhea and scaly dermatitis, but no respiratory symptoms were noted. He had decreased levels of serum linoleate and arachidonate, and increased palmitoleate and oleate levels, indicating essential fatty acid (EFA) deficiency. Supplementation of fat-emulsion improved his skin lesions and the altered FA pattern within a few months, associated with the definite reduction of the urinary PG F2 alpha levels. Until two years of age, he has been free from respiratory symptoms. A 12-year-old girl (case 2) had had recurrent respiratory tract infections due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus for several years, and her pancreatic functions were preserved. The FA patterns of her serum lipid were almost within the normal range. These results indicate that 1) the altered FA composition appeared to be a secondary consequence of PI commonly complicating CF and 2) the correction of the altered FA and PG metabolism might have a beneficial effect on the respiratory function of CF patients with EFA deficiency. PMID- 2516701 TI - Transient carnitine-responsive medium-chain dicarboxylic aciduria in an infant with cholestasis, hypoglycemia and cardiac failure. AB - In a cholestatic infant showing hypoglycemia and cardiac failure, non-ketotic medium-chain dicarboxylic aciduria was disclosed by urinary organic acid analysis. As urinary excretion of long-chain fatty acids was also increased, a defect in beta-oxidation of long-chain fatty acids appeared likely. To try to improve this abnormality, carnitine supplements were given, which led to the complete resolution of clinical and laboratory abnormalities. This is the first reported case of a cholestatic infant who responded to carnitine supplementation. Deficiency of carnitine palmitoyl transferase was suspected as the underlying cause. PMID- 2516702 TI - Transient myocardial thickening in acute myocarditis--serial study by two dimensional echocardiography. AB - A 13-year-old girl developed viral myocarditis complicated by pulmonary thromboembolism. Marked dilatation and reduction in the contractility of the left ventricle were noted in a two-dimensional echocardiogram on admission. The thicknesses of the left ventricle and the interventricular septum were both 8 mm at this time, but increased after the 9th day of the illness to reach 2 cm by the 15th day, with a concomitant reduction in the left ventricular cavity. The myocardial thickening gradually decreased and the ejection fraction improved on serial echocardiographic evaluations, and the wall thickness and ejection fraction returned to normal by the 32nd day. The myocarditis resolved without sequelae. The implications of this transient myocardial thickening are discussed. PMID- 2516703 TI - Mass screening and incidence of neuroblastoma. PMID- 2516704 TI - Effects of a low-dose estrogen-antiandrogen combination (Diane-35) on clinical signs of androgenization, hormone profile and ovarian size in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. AB - This study evaluates the effect of an oral contraceptive containing 35 micrograms of ethinyl estradiol and 2 mg of cyproterone acetate (Diane-35) on hormone dynamics, clinical signs of androgenization and ovarian size in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Forty-six patients with PCOS were treated with Diane-35 for between 9 and 30 cycles without interruption (a total of 688 cycles). Clinical and hormonal evaluations were performed before treatment and every 3rd cycle during the treatment period while ultrasonographic assessment of ovaries was carried out every 6th cycle. A highly significant decrease in the LH/FSH ratio (p less than 0.001) as well as testosterone levels (p less than 0.001) was noticed after the 3rd cycle of Diane-35 administration. The mean serum androstenedione level decreased significantly (p less than 0.025) after the 3rd cycle, and showed a lowering trend thereafter. A significant reduction in serum DHEA-S levels was observed after the 6th cycle of treatment and they also showed a subsequent lowering trend. A highly significant increase in SHBG concentrations (p less than 0.001) was noticed after the 3rd cycle. Most of the patients noticed improvement in hirsutism between the 8th and 12th cycles of treatment. Mean ovarian size decreased significantly (p less than 0.001) after the 6th cycle, the normal size being reached after the 12th cycle of treatment. After the 4th cycle treatment was discontinued in 1 patient due to secondary amenorrhea, and in another 3 patients because of an increase in diastolic blood pressure. In a few patients side-effects such as weight gain, breast tenderness and mood changes in mild form were reported. Three out of 7 patients conceived in the 2nd or 3rd cycle after discontinuing Diane-35 therapy. The results of this study show that a combination of low-dose estrogen and cyproterone acetate (Diane-35) successfully reduces the hormonal disturbances which characterize PCOS. Apart from the normalization of the hormonal profile and the decrease in ovarian size, beneficial effects of Diane-35 were also observed on acne, hirsutism and regulation of the menstrual cycle. Favourable effects were also seen in terms of the pregnancy rate after discontinuation of Diane-35 therapy. PMID- 2516706 TI - GnRH-agonist therapy in women with the polycystic ovarian syndrome: effects on ovarian volume and on gonadotropin and sex steroid levels. AB - Eleven patients with infertility and polycystic ovarian syndrome were treated with the GnRH agonist buserelin, 100 micrograms administered intranasally 6 times daily. The ovarian volume and morphology were monitored by vaginal sonography, and serum levels of hormones were measured by immunoassay. The mean ovarian volume was reduced from 13.0 +/- 4.1 cm3 to 9.1 +/- 3.1 cm3 after 42 days of treatment, p less than 0.001. The number of discernible ovarian microcysts was reduced from 11.9 +/- 2.1 to 9.6 +/- 2.9, p less than 0.05. The gonadotropin levels were reduced in all patients; however, there was no direct relationship between the reduction in ovarian volume loss and the concomitant decrease in LH or FSH levels. The levels of testosterone and androstenedione were normalized, whilst estradiol was suppressed to postmenopausal levels during the treatment period. The decrease in ovarian volume and the suppressed levels of ovarian steroids therefore seem to be related to the inhibition of the pituitary-ovarian axis with the GnRH agonist. PMID- 2516705 TI - Dexamethasone and spironolactone in the treatment of non-tumorous hyperandrogenism. AB - To test the hypothesis that a combination therapy with dexamethasone and spironolactone in hirsute women with menstrual disorders due to non-tumorous hyperandrogenism might yield better results than monotherapy with spironolactone, we evaluated 25 women randomly assigned to dexamethasone-spironolactone (n = 15) and spironolactone (n = 10) groups. The Ferriman-Gallwey score and hormonal levels (LH, FSH, PRL, serum testosterone, androstenedione, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, estradiol, estrone and salivary testosterone) were determined before and after 6 months of therapy. There were comparable results, with a significant drop in the Ferriman-Gallwey score, in serum androstenedione and estrone concentrations and in salivary testosterone levels in both groups. The only difference between the two groups after therapy was a significant fall in serum dehydroepiandrosterone levels in patients treated with the combination therapy. The results indicate that the combination therapy with spironolactone and dexamethasone presents no real advantage over therapy with spironolactone alone, for the initial treatment of non-tumorous hyperandrogenism. PMID- 2516707 TI - Dopamine might not be involved in the pathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome. AB - The possible alteration in dopamine (DA) metabolism as an etiological factor was investigated in 31 normoprolactinemic patients with typical polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in comparison with 14 normal women (early follicular phase). Subjects were submitted to intravenous infusion of 4 micrograms/kg DA per minute over a period of 3 hours and blood samples were collected every 30 minutes over a period of 5 hours. Two days later subjects were submitted to intravenous infusion of 10 mg metoclopramide (MCP) as a bolus and blood samples were collected every 15 minutes over a period of 2 hours. Dopamine infusion caused a similar maximum decrease (MD) in LH levels in both the PCOS and control groups (50.9% and 47.5%, respectively). No changes in plasma LH levels were observed in either group after MCP infusion. Dopamine caused a 50.2% and 60.4% MD in prolactin (PRL) in the PCOS and control groups, respectively, the difference being statistically non significant. Metoclopramide increased PRL levels by 1261.0% and 1832.0% in the PCOS and control groups, respectively (not significant). In a double-blind study, the PCOS patients were treated with 5 mg/day bromocriptine (n = 16) or placebo (n = 15) over a period of 3 months and evaluated in clinical and laboratory terms during and after treatment. Seven patients in each group had monthly menstrual periods, but only 1 in each group had an ovulatory cycle (progesterone greater than 5 ng/ml). During treatment, median plasma PRL levels were significantly decreased only in bromocriptine-treated patients (10.8 vs 7.3 ng/ml). The present results lead us to question whether dopamine is indeed involved in the pathogenesis of normoprolactinemic PCOS and whether bromocriptine treatment is of benefit in this type of patients. PMID- 2516708 TI - Changes in serum copper and zinc during treatment with anticancer drugs interfering with pyridoxal phosphate. AB - Hexamethylmelamine, pentamethylmelamine and procarbazine are anticancer drugs known to interfere with pyridoxal phosphate. This paper presents results on copper and zinc serum levels during the treatment with each of these drugs used as single agents. Six NZW rabbits weighing 2.7-4.5 kg were used in these experiments. Hexamethylmelamine and procarbazine were administered by gastric gavage and pentamethylmelamine by intravenous route at the daily doses of 100 mg, 30 mg and 50 mg/kg of body weight respectively for up to four days. Blood samples were collected in metal free tubes at fasting state before and during the treatment. Student's paired t-test was used for statistical analysis. The pretreatment serum copper concentration significantly (p = 0.05) increased and conversely the serum zinc concentration significantly (p = 0.05) decreased during each drug treatment. Consequently the copper/zinc ration significantly increased from 0.32, 0.33 and 0.27 to 1.16, 0.63 and 1.13 for hexamethylmelamine, pentamethylmelamine and procarbazine respectively. These results indicate, that daily administration of three anticancer drugs interfering with pyridoxal phosphate causes changes in serum copper and zinc levels with inversed relationship between both changes. PMID- 2516709 TI - Serum copper concentration as an index of experimental lung injury. AB - Serum copper (Cu) concentration was evaluated as an index of lung injury in two rat models of pneumotoxicity: hemithoracic irradiation and monocrotaline ingestion. In both models there was a dose- and time-dependent increase in serum Cu concentration. This hypercupremia paralleled the development of pulmonary endothelial dysfunction (decreased lung plasminogen activator activity and increased prostacyclin production) and pulmonary fibrosis (hydroxyproline accumulation). In the radiation model, lung injury and hypercupremia persisted for at least 6 months, and were spared similarly when the total dose was delivered in multiple daily fractions as compared to single doses. In irradiated rats, the elevated serum Cu concentration was accompanied by increases in plasma ceruloplasmin, lung Cu concentration, and lung Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. In monocrotaline-treated rats, lung damage and hypercupremia also were accompanied by a reduction in liver Cu concentration, and by a direct correlation between the concentrations of Cu and SGOT in the serum. In both models, some but not all modifiers of lung damage (penicillamine, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, pentoxifylline) also partially prevented the insult-induced hypercupremia. In contrast, serum iron concentration was largely independent of treatment in all experiments. These data suggest that elevated serum copper concentration is an accurate and minimally invasive index of lung injury in irradiated and monocrotaline-treated rats. PMID- 2516710 TI - The value of crude protein content and in vitro pepsin digestibility of abattoir by-product meals in the prediction of their available protein content. AB - Amino acid composition of meat-and-bone meals, poultry by-product meals, blood meals, bone meals and feather meals showed characteristic differences. Meat-and bone meals and blood meals had surplus in lysine, whereas poultry by-product meals and feather meals were relatively rich in cystine. Blood meals had high levels of branched-chain amino acids as compared to isoleucine. In vitro pepsin digestibility of meat-and-bone meals (79.9 +/- 17.7%; n = 24) and blood meals (95.8 +/- 4.2%; n = 11) was found to be higher than that of poultry by-product meals (65.3 +/- 7.7%; n = 14) or feather meals (44.7 +/- 9.2%; n = 16). Pepsin digestibility of poultry by-product meals showed a significant negative correlation with crude protein content (r = -0.73; P less than 0.05; n = 14). However, in vitro pepsin digestibility of poultry by-product meals as well as meat-and-bone meals, blood meals and feather meals, showed insignificant correlations with NPU indices as well as with available crude protein contents of the meals. The NPU values of meat-and-bone meals for rats (29.9 +/- 11.7; n = 100) were lower than those of poultry by-product meals (52.1 +/- 7.1; n = 14). The NPU values of blood meals (6.4 +/- 5.6; n = 11) and feather meals (23.5 +/- 10.0; n = 16), determined as sole sources of protein, were low and they did not elicit weight gain in rats. The available crude protein content of poultry by product meals (34.3 g/100 g +/- 3.6; n = 14) was higher than that of meat-and bone meals (17.0 g/100 g +/- 7.3; n = 100).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2516711 TI - [Clinical features of malignant hyperthermia crisis]. AB - Malignant hyperthermia (MH) is a pharmacogenetic disorder. It is classically described as a hypermetabolic state triggered by halogenated anaesthetics and/or depolarizing muscle relaxants. In fact, since Denborough and Lovel's case, it has been shown that MH has a great number of clinical forms. The overwhelming picture of muscular hypercatabolism with fulminating hyperthermia and generalized rigidity is becoming rare. A better knowledge of the first symptoms explains in part the better prognosis: masseter spasm after suxamethonium, an increase in expired CO2 concentration, unexplained tachycardia, ventricular arrhythmias. The use of dantrolene reduced the mortality of MH. The different types of clinical manifestations are due to genetic differences, the concentration of the anaesthetic agent, and the length of time of exposure to the drug. The severity of the episode is linked to environmental factors such as stress, physical exercise, ambient temperature, concomitant use of other drugs. Masseter spasm after suxamethonium is specific for MH, but not pathognomonic. It occurs in 1% of cases in children when using halothane with suxamethonium. However, in those patients who displayed such a spasm, more than 50% had a positive contracture test. Masseter spasm is often associated with severe rhabdomyolysis in patients with muscle dystrophy, especially Duchenne's dystrophy. In the latter case, major cardiac problems may occur at the time of anaesthetic induction. Even if there are no other signs of MH, all patients who have had a masseter spasm must be considered as open to doubt, and should be further explored. MH is often difficult to diagnose in medium severity types.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2516712 TI - [Practical approaches for surgical procedures in congenital factor VII deficiency]. AB - A 33 year old female with a congenital deficit in factor VII underwent four operations, all without any haemorrhage. One of then was carried out using substitutive therapy. She had a non-A non-B hepatitis one month after this treatment. Substitutive therapy depends on the assessment of the risk of haemorrhage, which can be estimated by the concentration of factor VII, the severity of spontaneous haemorrhage, the surgical history, and the planned operation. Since the risk of transmitting viruses with freeze-dried blood products would appear to be virtually nil, since 1985, fresh frozen plasma should be avoided for this type of indication. The doses of concentrated factor VII to be used lie between 20 IU.kg-1 every 4 h and 40 IU.kg-1 every 8 h. Such a dose should be administered in either one or several injections, according to whether the risk of haemorrhage is important or not. Substitutive therapy should be continued as long as the risk persists. Using a test dose of factor VII and, afterwards, measuring its biological activity can help to determine the best time for starting the treatment in order to obtain a level of factor VII greater than the minimum required for surgical haemostasis (10%). PMID- 2516713 TI - [Disseminated gonococcal infection]. PMID- 2516714 TI - Monoclonal antibodies to gamma-interferon treated LAN-1 cells detect modulation of ganglioside GD2 exposure on human neuroblastoma cells. AB - A panel of 8 new Mabs have been produced against neuroblastoma cells (LAN-1) previously treated with IFN-gamma. All selected Mabs from 2 different fusions have been shown to detect epitopes on the GD2 ganglioside molecules highly expressed on all cells of neural crest origin including neuroblastoma, glioblastoma and melanoma. Our results imply that modulation of GD2 exposure on NB cells is dependent on culture conditions and moreover that IFN-gamma increases the surface expression of GD2 and thereby enhances their immunogenicity. PMID- 2516715 TI - Increased surface expression and shedding of tumor associated antigens by human breast carcinoma cells treated with recombinant human interferons or phorbol ester tumor promoters. AB - In the present study we have evaluated the effect of recombinant interferons, including leukocyte (IFN-alpha A), fibroblast (IFN-beta) and immune (IFN-gamma), and the tumor promoting agent 12-0-tetradecanoyl-phorbol-13-acetate (TPA) on the expression of tumor associated antigens (TAA) and class II HLA-DR antigens on human breast carcinoma cell lines. The effect of these agents on the shedding of a high molecular weight tumor associated glycoprotein, BCA-225, was also determined. All three interferons and TPA enhanced the expression of the Mr 180,000 carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and CEA-related TAA recognized by monoclonal antibody B1.1 in both T47D and MCF-7 human breast carcinoma cell lines. The three types of interferons and TPA differed in their absolute TAA augmenting ability, even in single-cell subclones derived from MCF-7 cells and previously shown to display a differential susceptibility to IFN-alpha augmentation of B1.1 expression. In general, IFN-gamma was more effective than IFN-alpha, IFN-beta or TPA in augmenting the expression of TAA, CEA and BCA-225, and HLA-DR expression in T47D and MCF-7 cells. Differences were also apparent in the ability of the three interferon preparations and TPA to induce shedding of BCA-225 in T47D and MCF-7 cells and their subclones. As observed with TAA expression, IFN-gamma was the most effective preparation in inducing TAA shedding. IFN-gamma also induced the expression and the shedding of BCA-225 by a subclone of T47D cells, T47D cl 17, which normally displays a reduced expression of BCA-225 and does not spontaneously shed this TAA without exposure to IFN gamma. Recombinant leukocyte interferon (IFN-alpha A) also enhanced BCA-225 expression on T47D cells grown as xenografts in nude mice in vivo. The results of the present study emphasize the complexity of potential antigenic responses which can be induced in human breast carcinoma cells when they are exposed to biological response modulators, including different types of interferon, and tumor promoting agents, such as TPA. This investigation also indicates that both classes of agents can differentially augment expression and/or shedding of TAA by specific breast carcinoma cell lines as well as subclones derived from the same breast carcinoma cell line. PMID- 2516716 TI - Intratumoral treatment of pancreatic cancer with mitomycin-C adsorbed to activated carbon particles. A clinical trial on 15 cases. AB - Fifteen patients with carcinoma of the pancreas were treated with intratumoral injection of mitomycin-C adsorbed by activated carbon particles (MMC-CH) under ultrasound guidance. Following the treatment, in 6 out of 13 patients, the serum CA 19-9 declined to 10-75% of that before the treatment. The pain was alleviated in 8 out 13 patients, and in 5 out of 8 of these patients the serum CA 19-9 declined. In one case treated with MMC-CH before total pancreatectomy, charcoal deposits were found in the tumor and in 17 regional lymph nodes along with degeneration of cancer cells around the deposited charcoal. The results indicate that intratumoral injection of MMC-CH might be one of the methods for the treatment of advanced pancreatic cancer. PMID- 2516717 TI - Metastatic ability and differentiative properties of a new cell line of human embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma (CCA). AB - A new cell line (CCA) was established from a human embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma. It showed an "early" myogenic differentiation pattern: vimentin expression was found in 100% of cells, desmin in about 40% and myosin of the embryonic isoform in about 5%. Class I HLA expression on CCA cells was undeterctable but was greatly increased by in vitro treatment with human recombinant interferon-gamma and only marginally increased by human recombinant tumour necrosis factor-alfa. CCA cell line was tumorigenic in nude mice after either subcutaneous or intramuscular injection; macroscopic spontaneous metastases were not detected. The ability to induce metastatic nodules in the lungs was found when CCA cells were injected intravenously in cyclophosphamide-pretreated nude mice and, at low frequency, in untreated nude mice. PMID- 2516718 TI - How do patients identify their drugs? AB - This survey conducted by FMP trainees in Queensland describes how general practice patients on long term, self administered medications identify their drugs. Trade names are by far the most common means of identification. Generic names and identification by action, colour, and shape and common usage names are less frequently used. Knowledge of alternative trade and generic names is sparse, emphasising the need to inform patients fully of any changes to the brand names of their drugs. PMID- 2516719 TI - Molecular structure of a naturally occurring alcohol dehydrogenase null activity allele in Drosophila melanogaster. AB - An alcohol dehydrogenase null activity allele, AdhnAH52, extracted from a natural population of Drosophila melanogaster has been cloned and sequenced. Compared with the wild-type consensus sequence, the nucleotide sequence of AdhnAH52 contains eight extra bases in intron 2, adjacent to the 5' splice site. It seems likely that the extra bases result from two structural changes, with a 10-base pair insertion at the same site as a 2-base pair deletion. The insertion includes an 8-base pair duplication of an adjoining region. This structural change alters transcription to give rise to an mRNA which is longer than normal and at 10% of the wild-type level. PMID- 2516720 TI - Heat tolerance of free living and of intracellular Listeria. AB - Listeria monocytogenes, L. innocua, and L. seeligeri are ingested by Tetrahymena pyriformis. They are not killed but survive and lyse bacteriovorous protozoans after about 8 days. The question important in food processing whether intracellular L. monocytogenes are protected against pasteurization was investigated using a model of Tetrahymena containing previously ingested Listeria. The study showed that Tetrahymena containing Listeria are more susceptible against application of heat, but intracellular Listeria, phagocytized within Tetrahymena, are not more protected than free and extracellular bacteria. Therefore, a properly performed pasteurization, i.e. of milk, kills intracellular Listeria as fast as extracellular living organisms. Finally, the pathogenic L. monocytogenes showed a higher susceptibility and lower tolerance against application of heat than apathogenic L. innocua and L. seeligeri. PMID- 2516721 TI - Why won't this wound heal? AB - Protein-Calorie malnutrition occurs in a significant number of hospitalized, home and institutionalized patients. It results in increases in mortality and morbidity which are associated with increased length of stay and therefore cost of hospitalization. Such malnutrition can be reversed and corrected by appropriate nutritional intervention, thereby reducing the incidence of severity of these complication. However, it is first necessary to identify those patients with clinical and subclinical malnutrition. Protein-Calorie malnutrition or patients at risk of developing malnutrition can be identified by performing a nutritional assessment as described in this paper. Performing a nutritional assessment on your patient may provide you with the answer to your question "Why won't this wound heal?" PMID- 2516722 TI - Side chain reactivities of glucoamylase G2 from Aspergillus niger evaluated by group-specific chemical modifications. AB - Treatment of glucoamylase G2 with large excesses of different group specific reagents resulted in modification of 25% of the histidyl, 15% of the tyrosyl, 20 40% of the arginyl, 30-50% of the lysyl and none of the methionyl residues. The modified groups were not critical since the various derivatives possessed from 50% to 100% residual enzymatic activity and retained the thermostability. Carboxamidomethylation occurred specifically at His254 with essentially no change of the kinetic parameters for hydrolysis of maltose and starch. Removal of the two N-linked sugar units by endoglycosidase H was similarly without effect on activity, thermostability and chemical reactivity of the histidyl residues. H(+) titration revealed that glucoamylase G2 carries a lower net charge throughout the pH-range 3-11 than predicted from its amino acid composition. PMID- 2516723 TI - Exhaled gas analysis. Technical and clinical aspects of capnography and oxygen consumption. AB - Infrared absorption and mass spectrometry represent two common techniques used for measurement of end-tidal carbon dioxide concentration in expired air. Continuous capnographic monitoring may be useful in assessing changes in ventilation, pulmonary blood flow, and metabolism. Accuracy may be affected by the type of gas sampling technique used, as well as altered ventilation and perfusion matching in the lung. Oxygen uptake at the mouth may be measured by either an open- or closed-circuit technique. Calculated values of oxygen consumption obtained from pulmonary artery catheter data and blood gases correlate well with direct gas measurement. Accurate bedside determination requires a thorough knowledge of equipment and proper gas collection, especially at high inspired oxygen levels. This information may be useful in nutritional assessments, during mechanical ventilation, and in evaluation of therapeutic interventions aimed at optimizing peripheral oxygen delivery. PMID- 2516724 TI - Cytotoxic resistance of carcinogen-initiated hamster buccal pouch epithelium. PMID- 2516725 TI - Production of transgenic sheep with growth-regulating genes. AB - Pronuclei of fertilized sheep ova were injected with fusion genes consisting of the mouse metallothionein-I promotor/regulator ligated to either the structural gene for bovine growth hormone (mMTbGH) or to a minigene for human growth hormone releasing factor (mMThGRF). From a total of 842 sheep ova injected with mMTbGH and transferred into recipient ewes, 47 lambs were born. Two of the lambs were transgenic with mMTbGH, and both had bGH mRNA present in liver, kidney, and gut. In one lamb, plasma growth hormone was as high as 700 ng/ml. From a total of 435 sheep ova injected with mMThGRF and transferred to recipients, 54 lambs were born and 9 fetuses were collected. Nine of the 63 had integrated the mMThGRF gene. One of the nine had high concentrations of immunoassayable hGRF in its plasma and high variable plasma concentrations of ovine growth hormone. The lamb that expressed the hGRF gene did not release GH in response to an hGRF challenge. Four of five fetal offspring of a nonexpressing mMThGRF transgenic ram also contained the mMThGRF gene and, like the sire, failed to express the gene as determined by either liver hGRF mRNA or by plasma hGRF. Growth of the single transgenic lamb expressing hGRF was similar to control lambs. These studies demonstrate efficient introduction of genes into the sheep genome and indicate that transgenes are expressed and heritable. PMID- 2516726 TI - Molecular characterization of the Drosophila trp locus: a putative integral membrane protein required for phototransduction. AB - Recent studies suggest that the fly uses the inositol lipid signaling system for visual excitation and that the Drosophila transient receptor potential (trp) mutation disrupts this process subsequent to the production of IP3. In this paper, we show that trp encodes a novel 1275 amino acid protein with eight putative transmembrane segments. Immunolocalization indicates that the trp protein is expressed predominantly in the rhabdomeric membranes of the photoreceptor cells. PMID- 2516727 TI - Complete separation of four potassium currents in Drosophila. AB - A number of voltage-activated and Ca2+ activated K+ currents are known to coexist and play a major role in a wide variety of cellular processes including neuromuscular phenomena. Separation of these currents is important for analyzing their individual functional roles and for understanding whether or not they are mediated by entirely different channels. In Drosophila, we have now been able to manipulate four different K+ currents, individually and in combination with one another, by a combined use of mutations and pharmacological agents. This allows analysis of the physiological and molecular properties of different K+ channels and of the role of individual currents in membrane excitability. PMID- 2516728 TI - Characterization of a novel 66 kd subunit of mammalian neurofilaments. AB - A 66 kd protein, pl 5.4, was purified from the Triton-insoluble fraction of rat spinal cord. This protein formed 10 nm filaments in vitro. The 66 kd protein was unique, although it shared homology with the 70 kd neurofilament protein (NF-L) and vimentin. An antiserum (anti-66) specific to the 66 kd protein did not cross react with any of the neurofilament triplet proteins. In the spinal cord, anti-66 intensely stained the axons of the anterior and lateral columns. However, afferents from dorsal root ganglia and the efferents from the motoneurons were negative. In the cerebellum, anti-66 intensely stained most axons. The 66 kd protein was readily detectable in homogenates of forebrain, cerebellum, brainstem, and spinal cord, but was found only in trace amounts in adult sciatic nerves and was not found in extraneural tissues. The 66 kd protein constituted 0.5% of total protein in the spinal cord, whereas NF-L constituted about 1.5%. PMID- 2516729 TI - The microtubule binding domain of tau protein. AB - Tau protein is a microtubule-associated protein implicated in the spatial and temporal specification of microtubules and has been found in the neurofibrillary tangles of Alzheimer's disease. Determination of tau protein structure has revealed three 18 amino acid repeated sequences hypothesized to be tubulin binding sites. Using tau cDNA clones from human fetal brain, we employed E. coli expression systems to synthesize tau protein and fragments of tau protein in order to identify the microtubule binding site. A fragment containing the three repeated sequences binds microtubules, while the amino-terminal half of the protein does not bind. Fragments containing two or one repeat are also capable of binding, indicating that the basic tubulin interacting unit is one repeat. PMID- 2516730 TI - Accumulation of carbon dioxide during eye surgery. AB - During cataract surgery, both the surgeon and the anesthesiologist need access to the patient's face. At our institution we achieved a working compromise by using an oxygen insufflating hoop, which allowed the surgeon access to the eye and a sterile field. The patient's airway was kept free by the hoop, and the patient breathed a high inspired oxygen fraction. We measured the partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PCO2) of the gas mixture under the surgeon's drapes because they form a semiclosed breathing system for the patient. Accumulation of CO2 occurred in all patients (mean +/- SD, 6.1 +/- 3.1 mmHg), but an oxygen flow of 10 L/min through the hoop prevented an additional rise of CO2 levels during the operation. Reducing the oxygen flow below 10 L/min led to increased retention of CO2 under the drapes. Paper drapes are permeable to CO2, but plastic drapes are impermeable. We did not measure the arterial partial pressure of CO2, and so we do not know whether CO2 accumulation was accompanied by respiratory acidosis. PMID- 2516731 TI - The apnea-PaCO2 relationship: some clinical and medico-legal considerations. PMID- 2516732 TI - The PaCO2 rate of rise in anesthetized patients with airway obstruction. AB - Apneic, anesthetized patients frequently develop airway obstruction or may be disconnected from ventilatory support. The rate of PaCO2 rise is usually assumed to be equal to that of anesthetized humans who are receiving apneic oxygenation. Apneic oxygenation may eliminate CO2 because it requires a continuous O2 flow. The CO2 rate of rise in anesthetized humans with airway obstruction was measured. Fourteen consenting healthy adults were monitored continuously with pulse oximetry and EKG. Enflurane--O2 anesthesia was established for at least 10 minutes with normal PaCO2 without neuromuscular blockade so that anesthesia was deep enough to prevent spontaneous ventilation. Then, patients' tracheal tubes were clamped. Arterial blood samples were obtained before and after 0, 20, 40, 60, 120, 180, 240, and 300 seconds after clamping, provided that oxyhemoglobin saturation exceeded 0.92. The equation that best described the PaCO2 rise was a logarithmic function. Piecewise linear approximation yielded a PaCO2 increase of 12 mmHg during the first minute of apnea, and 3.4 mmHg/minute thereafter. These values should be employed when estimating the duration of apnea from PaCO2 change for anesthetized patients who lack ventilatory support. In addition, it appears that the flows of O2 that most earlier investigators used when delivering apneic oxygenation probably did not eliminate significant CO2 quantities. PMID- 2516733 TI - High incidence of CO2 laser beam contact with the tracheal tube during operations on the upper airway. AB - Polyvinyl chloride tracheal tubes from 50 consecutive CO2 laser operations of the larynx and trachea were collected after tracheal extubation. In all cases, the helium protocol for laser operations was used, which includes the following: helium in the anesthetic gas mixture at 60% or more during laser resection (FIO2 less than or equal to 0.4); tracheal intubation with plain, unmarked polyvinyl chloride tubes; laser power density less than or equal to 1,992 W/cm2; and laser bursts of less than or equal to 10-second duration. No tracheal tube fires or airway burns occurred. The polyvinyl chloride tubes were examined for marks caused by the laser, and cuffed tubes were tested for cuff viability. Of the 50 tubes examined, 18 were noncuffed and 32 were cuffed. Although most contacts did not penetrate the tubes, 58% of the tubes showed evidence of contact with the laser as a brown mark on the tube or as a cuff leak. Cuffed tubes were more likely to incur laser contact (69%) than noncuffed tubes (39%), a significant difference (p = 0.04). Most of the cuffed tubes that came in contact with the laser sustained damage at the cuff (77%). It was concluded that the risk of tracheal tube contact with a laser beam is at least 1 in 2, that cuffed tubes are more likely to be hit with a laser beam than noncuffed tubes, and that cuffed tubes that are hit usually sustain damage to the cuff. Because no fires occurred in this series despite frequent laser contact with the tube, these data indicate that the helium protocol helps to prevent polyvinyl chloride tube fires. PMID- 2516734 TI - The carbon dioxide rate of rise in awake apneic humans. PMID- 2516735 TI - Modulatory effects of glycosaminoglycans and histamine on lymphocyte mitogenesis. AB - Since mast cells have previously been shown to be potent modulators of lymphocyte function, the effect of varying concentrations of three mast cell- or basophil- as well as skin ground substance-derived glycosaminoglycans (GAG; heparin, chondroitin sulfate, hyaluronic acid) and of histamine was investigated on rat spleen cell 3H-thymidine incorporation in the absence and presence of mitogens. Modulation proved to be different for the three GAG: chondroitin sulfate was inhibitory and hyaluronic acid enhancing, while heparin exhibited a more complex pattern, with inhibition in control and phytohemagglutinin-stimulated cultures and enhancement in concanavalin A-driven cultures, in parallel to histamine. The data suggest that ground substance GAG as well as mast cell- and basophil-derived mediators in the skin can have a marked and complex modulatory effect on the function of lymphocytes. PMID- 2516736 TI - Effects of chloroquine on release of mediators from mast cells. AB - This study was designed to investigate the effect of chloroquine (CQ) on the release of preformed and generated mediators from rat serosal mast cells (greater than 90% pure). CQ alone (10-1,000 micrograms/ml) induced the release of preformed mediators, while stimulation with calcium ionophore A23187 of CQ treated cells resulted in suppressed releases of both preformed and generated (particularly prostaglandin D2) mediators. These effects were calcium-independent and reversible. Whether these results partly explain the efficacy of CQ in the treatment of mast cell-mediated dermatoses remains to be further investigated. PMID- 2516737 TI - Effect of lonapalene on metabolism of exogenous arachidonic acid in human platelets. AB - Lonapalene was studied as a topical antipsoriatic agent on the basis of its inhibitory effect on 5-lipoxygenase. We studied the effect of lonapalene on the metabolism of exogenous arachidonic acid in washed platelet suspensions by RP HPLC. Lonapalene was shown to inhibit platelet cyclooxygenase, with substrate diversion towards 12-HETE production. The pattern of inhibition was similar to that of indometacin, although lonapalene was about 1,000 times weaker. The dual inhibition of lonapalene and concomitant deviation of arachidonic acid metabolism may have potential implications, with regard to therapeutic indications and side effects, which deserve further study. PMID- 2516738 TI - Association of nuclear oncoproteins fos and jun. PMID- 2516739 TI - Intracellular membrane fusion. PMID- 2516740 TI - Biosynthetic protein transport in the secretory pathway. PMID- 2516741 TI - Endocytosis. PMID- 2516742 TI - Regional wall motion index for infarct and noninfarct regions after reperfusion in acute myocardial infarction: comparison with global wall motion index. AB - A regional wall motion index has been derived from two-dimensional echocardiograms by use of a 16-segment model that was subdivided into anterior (nine segments) and infero-postero-lateral (seven segments) regions. This new method is compared with the use of a previously described global wall motion index for the analysis of serial echocardiograms after reperfusion in 23 patients who had acute myocardial infarction. Mean global index improved from 1.84 +/- 0.46 to 1.56 +/- 0.37 at 24 hours (p less than 0.01) and to 1.50 +/- 0.29 after 3 days to 7 days (p less than 0.02), whereas mean regional index for infarct regions improved from 2.28 +/- 0.73 to 1.82 +/- 0.58 at 24 hours (p less than 0.01) and to 1.70 +/- 0.42 after 3 to 7 days (p less than 0.01), with no significant change in the noninfarct index (1.34 +/- 0.32 initially and 1.28 +/- 0.36 after 3 to 7 days). Although both global and regional indexes effectively demonstrate early recovery of left ventricular function, (within 24 hours in many patients), the regional index for infarct regions is higher than the global index and effectively distinguishes between infarct and noninfarct segments. An overlap index in which an additional apical segment is included in the anterior region (10 segments) for anterior infarctions and in the infero-postero-lateral region (eight segments) for inferior infarctions results in a greater differentiation between infarct and noninfarct regions, with the mean initial noninfarct overlap index (1.17 +/- 0.33) significantly less than the nonoverlap index.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2516744 TI - Effects of inhibitors of phospholipase A2, cyclooxygenase and thromboxane synthetase on paracetamol hepatotoxicity in the rat. AB - This paper describes work on a proposed hypothesis of cell injury and death in which an hepatotoxin-induced rise in cytosolic free Ca2+ concentration activates phospholipase A2 (PLA2) resulting in the release of arachidonic acid (A.A.) from membrane phospholipids. A.A. is then converted to eicosanoids which are known to be formed during chemical cell injury. A rise in cytosolic free Ca2+ level (indicated by increased glycogen phosphorylase "a" activity) occurs about 12 h after paracetamol administration to rats. Inhibitors of PLA2, cyclooxygenase and thromboxane synthetase injected i.p. 7 h after paracetamol prevented hepatotoxicity as measured by SGPT activity but did not prevent an increase in glycogen phosphorylase "a" activity. Serum 11-deoxy-13,14-dihydro-15-keto-11 beta, 16 epsilon-cyclo prostaglandin E2 and thromboxane B2 measured by radioimmunoassay increased substantially soon after the increase in glycogen phosphorylase "a" activity. The data presented support the proposed sequence of events in which A.A., released from membrane phospholipids by Ca2(+)-activated PLA2, acts as substrate for the synthesis of cytodestructive eicosanoids. PMID- 2516743 TI - Metabolism of endogenous arachidonic acid in weakly activated platelets. Absence of leukocyte cooperative products in whole blood. AB - Human platelets were incubated alone or in whole blood with specific agonists such as thrombin or collagen, and 12-hydroxy-heptadecatrienoic (HHT) and 12 hydroxy-eicosatetraenoic (12-HETE) acids were measured by HPLC as indices of platelet cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase activities, respectively. We found that both arachidonic acid metabolites are significantly formed at concentrations of thrombin insufficient to provoke platelet aggregation. The ratio HHT/12-HETE varied with increasing concentrations of thrombin, with an increase in the absence and a decrease in the presence of albumin in the incubation. When platelets were stimulated in whole blood, this ratio favoured HHT and the addition of albumin to isolated platelets had the same effect. The formation of oxygenated products of 12-HETE by leukocyte LTB w-hydroxylase and 5-lipoxygenase in unstimulated and stimulated leukocytes, respectively, was also investigated. We failed to detect any significant amounts of these products in whole blood incubated with relatively high concentrations of collagen in the presence or absence of the chemotactic peptide FMLP. We conclude that, although 12-HETE is a good substrate for leukocyte oxygenases when incubated at high concentration with the cells alone, its oxygenation is unlikely to occur in whole blood, making 12 HETE and/or HHT potential markers of platelet activation in vivo, provided they are not substantially degraded during passage of the blood through various organs. PMID- 2516745 TI - Indium 111 imaging in appendicitis. PMID- 2516746 TI - [The role of thrombocyte prostanoids and products secreted by dense granules in the platelet attachment, spreading and aggregation on collagen substrates]. AB - The role of platelet prostanoids and substances released from dense bodies (ADP and serotonin) in the initial attachment, spreading and aggregation of platelets on surfaces coated with I, III, IV and V genetic types of collagen was investigated. A positive linear correlation was found to exist between thrombi like aggregate formation on collagen substrates and platelet prostanoid synthesis. No correlation was established between platelet aggregate formation and 14C-serotonin release. The cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin and the antagonists of PG endoperoxides and TXA2 (13-APA and BM 13.177) completely block thrombi-like aggregate formation. Neither 13-APA nor BM 13.177 affect platelet spreading, while indomethacin inhibits this process by 25%. The ADP-scavenger CP/CPK inhibits platelet aggregation and spreading by 25-30%. The inhibitors of cyclooxygenase and CP/CPK do not influence the initial attachment of platelets. The data obtained suggest that thrombi-like aggregate formation on collagen substrates is mediated by the synthesis of PG endoperoxides and TXA2; however, in platelet spreading this synthesis plays a limited role. Spreading and aggregation of platelets on collagen substrates is only partly mediated by ADP and serotonin. Initial attachment of platelets does not depend on ADP and serotonin release and PG endoperoxide/TXA2 synthesis. PMID- 2516748 TI - The interest of follow-up of resistance of the tubercle bacillus in the evaluation of a programme. PMID- 2516747 TI - Quantitative analysis of ventral denticular patterns of Drosophila melanogaster larvae and the regulation of the bithorax complex. AB - A quantitative model of the effect of the bithorax complex on segmentation is presented which could explain the known data of the spatiotemporal regulation of key gene complex during early Drosophila development, in relation to their effects on some of the segmentation landmarks. The model tries to put together the two different genetic levels, the genotypic and the phenotypic. At the genotypic level, a minimal cross-regulatory network of the different genes involved, Antp, Ubx, abd-A and Abd-B which explains the reported levels of expressions of these genes. At the phenotypic level, the pattern of the ventral denticle belts across the larva which are characteristics of the different segments have been compared by calculating a value of the degree of similarity in the case of the wild-type and several mutant combinations. Finally the two parts of the model are combined, showing that a satisfactory agreement between the two can be achieved. Therefore, this work is a first attempt to develop a method which will provide an explanatory solution of the old question in morphogenesis of how the phenotype is directed by the genotype of a cell or organism. PMID- 2516749 TI - Sensitivity of Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains to antituberculosis drugs isolated at Dakar University Hospital, from 1987 to 1988. PMID- 2516750 TI - An ordinary mortal's guide to the molecular biology of mycobacteria. PMID- 2516751 TI - The incidence of infectious complications during the childhood ALL induction phase with BFM/ALL/NHL/86 protocol. PMID- 2516752 TI - Overview of immunodeficiency diseases where bone marrow transplantation is feasible. PMID- 2516753 TI - Cyclosporine in the treatment of aplastic anaemia and pure red-cell aplasia. PMID- 2516754 TI - Emergency response to nuclear and radiation accidents. PMID- 2516755 TI - Early complications of bone marrow transplantation in children and adults. PMID- 2516757 TI - Testicular size in infertile men: relationship to semen characteristics and hormonal blood levels. AB - Testicular volume was assessed in 1029 infertile men and found to be normal in 704; 71 patients had unilateral and 213 had bilateral testicular hypotrophy; 4 had unilateral and 37 had bilateral atrophy. Sperm count and motility decreased in accordance with testicular volume. The lowest mean sperm counts and lowest mean motility percentages were found in patients with bilateral testicular atrophy. An increase in mean FSH and LH was also significantly linked to decreasing testicular volume; the increase in the former was not related to a drop in sperm count. A significant correlation was found between testicular volume and spermatogenesis and testicular volume is considered to be a reliable indicator of testicular function. PMID- 2516756 TI - Enhancement of BMT management in children and adults. PMID- 2516758 TI - Re: Recurrence of superficial bladder carcinoma after intravesical instillation of Mitomycin-C. PMID- 2516759 TI - Air hygiene in a pullet house: spatial homogeneity of aerial pollutants. AB - 1. The spatial distribution of aerial pollutants was measured in a large deep litter pullet house, initially holding 10,000 birds, at 12 sites within the birds' breathing zone: on 6 occasions when the birds were between 8 and 27 d of age and on two occasions when the birds were 29 and 34 d of age and the flock size was halved. 2. The distribution of most pollutants appeared uniform, implying that all sites could be considered representative of the overall concentration of pollutant. 3. The concentration of ammonia differed between sites, probably because of local variations in the rate of release from the litter. The number concentration of non-respirable particles (greater than 5 microns in diameter) became heterogeneous when the flock size was halved. 4. The operation of two punka fans had no effect on the spatial distribution of aerial pollutants, but increased the maximum air speed from 0.08 to 0.16 m/s. 5. Recommendations are given for the minimum number of sampling sites necessary for a predetermined level of statistical accuracy. Eight sites at least are recommended for most aerial pollutants, though more are needed for the concentration of gaseous ammonia. PMID- 2516760 TI - [Cell cycle analysis of hybridoma cultures: study by cytofluorimetry]. AB - An hybridoma cell line cultivated in flasks has been used as a model to study the loss of cell viability in high density cell cultures. Cell cycle analysis by cytofluorimetry has shown that a new hypochromosomic cell population appeared as soon as the viability began to decrease. However there is no evidence that this new population is constituted of dead cells. PMID- 2516761 TI - [Expression of O-glycans during enterocytic differentiation of HT-29 cells]. AB - The expression of O- and N-glycan chains during the enterocytic differentiation of HT-29 cells was followed using L-[63H]-fucose and D-[6-3H]-glucosamine radiolabeling. Whatever the cell population, i.e., differentiated or undifferentiated, the incorporation of radiolabeled sugars into glycoproteins was similar. However, differences among these two cell populations were noted when the ratio [3H]-glucosamine/[3H]-galactosamine and the sensitivity of glycopeptides to mild alkaline treatment were followed. From these data, we could conclude that there is a shift in the high molecular weight glycopeptides during the differentiation of HT-29 cells meaning an increase of O-linked glycopeptides correlated with a decrease of N-linked forms. PMID- 2516762 TI - [Autoantibodies directed against membrane phospholipid in serum in patients with malignant tumors]. AB - Modifications of membrane lipids in the levels of fatty acids and phospholipids are associated with malignant tumors. In order to evaluate if these changes are recognized by the immune system, we have attempted to assay the possible presence of autoantibodies directed against the following lipids: phosphatidylinositol (PI), phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, gangliosides, galactocerebrosides, sphingomyelin, sphingosin, and cardiolipin, in the sera of patients with malignant tumors (n = 324) and from controls [healthy subjects (n = 20) and patients suffering of other diseases (n = 60)]. Using an adaptated immunoenzymatic assay (ELISA method), a highly significant difference (p less than 0.001) was found between the mean absorbances read on the cancer and control group for only one lipid, the PI. Whatsmore, these auto anti-PI were found in all sera (diluted 15,000 times) of patients with malignant tumors, whatever type, grade, or organ localization defined. These data indicated that the immune system recognized the PI antigenic modifications which appear to be linked to the cell transformation. This PI-immunological binding may have a predictive value as we have recently noticed in animals bearing chemically induced malignant tumors. PMID- 2516763 TI - [Man-nude mouse tissue chimera: characterization of cell population by in situ hybridization]. AB - In situ hybridization with biotinated probes to total genomic DNAs as well as to the sequences ALu was performed on 13 cutaneous and 19 tumoral human grafts into nude mice. The dermis of cutaneous grafts is progressively overgrown by murine fibroblasts. Primary revascularization took place by development of anastomoses between the human and murine capillary beds. Well-differentiated human neurilemnal sheaths persisted in the grafts until the 6th month. Murine mononuclear cells, resembling Langerhans cells, penetrated the human epidermis. The cells of the fibrous capsules that enclosed the tumors were of mouse origin. Finally, transplantation of human tumors to mice resulted in the replacement of the endothelial and fibroblastic stromal human components by their murine counterparts. PMID- 2516764 TI - [In vitro anti-HIV activity of phosphorothioate alpha-anomeric oligodeoxynucleotides]. AB - Oligonucleotide analogs consisting exclusively of alpha-anomeric deoxynucleoside units bridged with phosphorothioate linkages have been synthesized and tested in vitro as antiviral agents against human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in human T cells. Two 28-mers, an homopolymer alpha-S-dC28 and an oligomer alpha-S-anti-rev complementary to the initiation site of the regulatory viral gene rev exhibited antiviral activities comparable to those reported for the corresponding beta anomeric phosphorothioate analogs. In contrast, a nuclease-resistant homopolymer, alpha-dC28 was inactive. Their preliminary results would indicate that the origin of oligonucleotide phosphorothioate anti-HIV activity is not exclusively correlated with their higher nuclease resistance. PMID- 2516765 TI - [Algebraic definition of toxicologic constants characteristic of lethality]. AB - The Hill equation, mi = Mmax/(1 + [Ti/t]ni), describes the mortality (mi) versus time (t) of a normal or an intoxicated organism. Parameters Ti and ni are, in turn, functions of doses (di) of toxin, according to the same equation. Doses dT50 and dN50 eliciting a half-maximum variation of parameters Ti and ni are both fundamental toxicological constants. The tangents (delta i) to the curve of mortality vs time also obey the same type of equation and allow an additional family of constants, d delta 50, to be derived. In contrast, LD50 varies between zero and infinite. The model can be readily generalized to the opposite phenomena involving a stimulation of the life span of organisms. PMID- 2516766 TI - [First transplantation of embryonic serotonergic neurons in primate spinal cord]. AB - Three adult monkeys (Macaca fascicularis) underwent a total section of the spinal cord at thoracic level (T6). 1 week later, two of them received at T8 level an injection of a cellular suspension prepared from the raphe region of a foetal macaque 39 days old. The third animal received one injection of buffer solution. 1 month later, the animals were sacrificed, and their spinal cord was processed for the immunocytochemical detection of serotonin with light and electron microscopy. Serotonergic neurons had survived after transplantation, and had grown axons and dendrites. Afferent and efferent synapses to serotonergic neurons were readily identified. PMID- 2516767 TI - Biotransformation of glyceryl trinitrate and isosorbide dinitrate in vascular smooth muscle made tolerant to organic nitrates. AB - It has been proposed that organic nitrates are prodrugs and biotransformation to a pharmacologically active metabolite (i.e., nitric oxide) must occur before the onset of vasodilation. If this postulated mechanism is correct, tolerance to organic nitrate-induced vasodilation might involve decreased biotransformation of organic nitrates by vascular smooth muscle. In this study, biotransformation of isosorbide dinitrate (ISDN) and glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) was estimated by measuring isosorbide mononitrate (ISMN) and glyceryl dinitrate (GDN), respectively, rather than the nitrate anion, because of a more sensitive method for measurement of ISMN and GDN. To test this hypothesis, isolated rabbit aortic strips (RAS) were made tolerant in vitro by incubation with 500 microM GTN or ISDN for 1 h. After a washout period and submaximal contraction with phenylephrine, the tissues were incubated with either 2.0 microM [14C]ISDN or 0.5 microM [14C]GTN for 2 min. ISDN- or GTN-induced relaxation of RAS was monitored and tissue parent drug and metabolite contents were determined by thin-layer chromatography and liquid scintillation spectrometry. ISDN- and GTN-induced relaxation of RAS and the metabolite concentrations were significantly less for both GTN- and ISDN-tolerant tissue compared with nontolerant tissue. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that organic nitrate biotransformation is required for organic nitrate-induced vasodilation. PMID- 2516768 TI - Opioidergic control of gonadotropin secretion in the female rabbit: divergent effects of morphine on secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone. AB - The nature of secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) was followed in female rabbits on a daily basis from age 36 to 60 days by sequential 5-min blood sampling over 1- to 2-h periods each day. Both LH and FSH were found to be secreted in a pulsatile manner. The mean LH pulse amplitude over the 25 days was 0.95 +/- 0.32 ng/mL and for FSH it was 10.15 +/- 1.11 ng/mL. Mean plasma LH levels were significantly increased from 1.46 +/- 0.08 ng/mL in 36 to 42-day-old rabbits to 1.89 +/- 0.12 ng/mL in 43 to 50-day-old rabbits and remained elevated from 50 to 60 days. FSH levels during the same periods also rose significantly from 14.93 +/- 0.79 to 19.57 +/- 2.05 ng/mL. To examine the influence of endogenous opioid peptides on the release of LH and FSH in 36 to 60-day-old female rabbits, morphine sulfate at 0.2, 0.5, 2.0, and 5.0 mg/kg was administered subcutaneously after 30 min baseline sampling, and blood was taken for another 60-120 min. Morphine at all doses and at all ages inhibited the amplitude and frequency of LH pulses but had no effect on FSH secretion. To determine whether the effects of morphine on LH secretion could be reversed with naloxone, females aged 82-114 days were used. Naloxone administered 1 h after morphine reversed the inhibitory effects of morphine, whereas the simultaneous administration of naloxone with morphine had variable effects but seemed to delay the LH increase.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2516769 TI - Isolated popliteal vein entrapment. AB - We present two cases of isolated popliteal vein entrapment caused by the lateral head of the gastrocnemius muscle confirmed by both venography and magnetic resonance imaging of the knee. PMID- 2516770 TI - Diameters of pulmonary veins in normal children--an angiocardiographic study. AB - The diameters of the pulmonary veins at their atrial junction were measured from cineangiocardiographic films in 27 children (mean height 128.5 cm) without heart disease. Right upper pulmonary veins and right lower pulmonary veins were measured in all 27 films. The left upper pulmonary veins could be measured in 23 children (mean height 127.0 cm), and the left lower pulmonary veins only in 15 (mean height 135.0 cm) because their atrial junctions were obscured by other structures. Measurements were obtained in frontal projection of levophase of pulmonary trunk angiograms. Calipers and a micrometer were used and the values were expressed to the nearest 0.5 mm. The measured size of the intracardiac catheter was used for calibration. The diameter (in mm) for right upper pulmonary veins was 0.08 x height (in cm) + 1.4 (r = 0.96); for right lower pulmonary veins, 0.07 x height + 2.1 (r = 0.94); for left upper pulmonary veins, 0.06 x height + 3.1 (r = 0.87); and for left lower pulmonary veins it was the same as for left upper, but with r of 0.94. PMID- 2516771 TI - Catheter occlusion of a mycotic renal artery aneurysm with cure of associated renovascular hypertension. AB - We describe successful transcatheter occlusion of a mycotic renal artery aneurysm. The patient's hypertension resolved following occlusion of the aneurysm and infarction of the renal parenchyma in the distribution of the aneurysmal vessel. PMID- 2516772 TI - Therapeutic embolization of aneurysmal bone cyst. AB - Results of therapeutic embolization of aneurysmal bone cysts in five patients are described. Transcatheter arterial embolization was performed with Ivalon and Gelfoam particles and Gianturco coils. The postembolization period was characterized by complete relief of pain and decrease in size of the aneurysmal bone cyst in all patients. In patients whose follow-up was longer than 12 months, sclerosis and recalcification of bone were present. There were no complications. PMID- 2516773 TI - Abdominal aortic dissection with retrograde extension into the thoracic aorta: case report. AB - A case of spontaneous dissection originating in the infrarenal abdominal aorta with retrograde extension into the thoracic aorta is reported along with the computed tomography and angiographic findings. Surgical repair resulted in the obliteration of the false lumen, healing of the thoracic hematoma, and clinical recovery. The principles for radiologic evaluation and therapeutic management are discussed. PMID- 2516774 TI - CT diagnosis of right hemothorax secondary to ruptured thoracoabdominal aneurysm: case report. AB - The development of a right hemothorax as the result of a ruptured thoracoabdominal aneurysm is an uncommon and usually fatal event. Survival depends upon an accurate diagnosis and prompt surgical intervention. We present a case of a ruptured thoracoabdominal aneurysm into the right chest that presented as opacification of the right hemithorax and hypotension. An early CT scan provided the correct preoperative diagnosis, although the patient did not survive. PMID- 2516776 TI - "Retroantegrade" catheterization of the branches of the femoral artery: technical note. AB - Antegrade catheterization is the preferred approach to angioplasty and selective fibrinolysis of branches of the femoral artery. A simple method of antegrade catheterization beginning with a retrograde puncture and using a new catheter is described. The method can reduce the number of punctures and manipulations needed for selective antegrade catheterization of the common femoral artery. PMID- 2516775 TI - Complications of universal ureteral stent. AB - The universal stent is primarily a ureteral stent that also permits optional nephrostomy drainage. The complications associated with universal stent placement were analyzed with respect to the underlying pathology. The major complications included stent-induced ureteral stricture in 2 patients, and stent migration requiring emergency repositioning in 2 patients. Stent malfunction due to stent migration or occlusion, and bladder irritation were frequent also. PMID- 2516777 TI - Infracolic percutaneous gastrojejunostomy: technical note. AB - The authors describe and discuss the safe percutaneous placement of an infracolic gastrojejunostomy catheter in a burn patient with no other access route for nutritional support. PMID- 2516778 TI - Percutaneous intravascular biopsy using a Simpson atherectomy catheter: technical note. AB - The design of the Simpson atherectomy catheter makes this device a potentially safe and technically easy tool to obtain adequate pathologic intravascular or intraluminal specimens. The risk of perforation should be low, but this use has to be further studied. We describe the first intravascular biopsy performed with the Simpson catheter. PMID- 2516779 TI - Nonendoscopic techniques for manipulating Sacks-Vine gastrostomy tubes: technical note. PMID- 2516780 TI - Studies on fresh water snails, specific intermediate hosts for schistosomiasis- IV. Isolation of haemolymph from native and chemically pretreated snails. PMID- 2516781 TI - Immunohistochemical study of Pacinian corpuscles using monoclonal antibodies for neurofilament protein, glial fibrillary acidic protein and S-100 protein. AB - The presence of neurofilament protein (NFP), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and S-100 protein has been investigated in Pacinian corpuscles from cat's mesentery by means of immunohistochemical methods. The NFP-like positivity was found in the central axon of the corpuscles; the GFAP- and S-100 protein-like immunoreactivities were shown in the innermost layers of the differentiated cell of the inner core. No positive reaction was detected in the capsule. The authors discuss these findings. PMID- 2516782 TI - Effect of monensin on secretion of t-PA from melanoma (Bowes). AB - The secretion of tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA) from melanoma cells (Bowes) was investigated with or without monensin treatment. Monensin inhibited secretion of t-PA from the cells to the medium in a dose-and time-dependent manner. The inhibition was accompanied by an intracellular accumulation of t-PA. Electrophoretic enzymography of the cell homogenate showed the main lytic zone at 72 kDa, which reacted with the IgG of anti-t-PA. Analysis of the cell organelles using ultracentrifugation with a discontinuous sucrose density gradient revealed that the activity and the antigen of t-PA were observed near the discontinuous phase of the sucrose gradient. Analysis of 3H-mannose- and 35S-methionine-labeled t-PA in the cell organelles revealed that the radioactivity of each was increased by monensin treatment, and that such treatment increased the ratio of 3H-mannose related glycoprotein to 35S-methionine-related protein. The sugar chain of intracellular t-PA was analyzed with endoglycosidase H and N-glycanase, which reduced the molecular weight of t-PA by 4.5-10 kDa, indicating the intracellular presence of a high-mannose type sugar chain and a complex-type sugar chain of t PA. t-PA secreted from the monensin-treated cells possesses a high-mannose type sugar chain only. Therefore, monensin alters the secretion of t-PA by abnormal glycosylation. PMID- 2516783 TI - Prolactin and luteinizing hormone profiles of cured acromegalic subjects. AB - The 24-h PRL and LH hormone profiles were analysed of 16 cured male acromegalic patients who had undergone selective transsphenoidal surgery 4-9 years previously. Eight of these patients also underwent pituitary irradiation. Blood samples were taken at 20-min intervals; the PRL and LH data were analysed with the cluster program. ARIMA modelling, cross-correlation techniques, Fourier analysis, and cosinor analysis. About 10-11 PRL and LH peaks were demonstrated for both non-irradiated and irradiated patients. The absolute heights of PRL pulses and the mean valley levels were significantly greater for irradiated patients than for non-irradiated patients, but the increment in amplitude did not differ. A significant diurnal rhythm for PRL was found for all non-irradiated patients but for only one irradiated patient. LH pulse area and amplitude were lower in the group of irradiated patients. The incremental responses of LH and PRL to GnRH and TRH, respectively, were lower in irradiated patients than in non irradiated patients. During the night (0200-0800 h) the number of PRL pulses decreased in non-irradiated patients but not in irradiated patients. Pulse nadirs and amplitudes increased during the evening and night in non-irradiated patients but were constant in irradiated subjects. Bivariate modelling of the data for 14 patients revealed significant cross-correlations between LH and PRL pulses in nine subjects. This study demonstrates that the pulsatile secretion of PRL and LH in treated acromegalics is basically normal. Additional radiation therapy, however, may lead to damage of the hypothalamus, as reflected by the absence of a circadian PRL rhythm. A direct influence on the pituitary by radiation is indicated by the decreased magnitude of LH pulses and the diminished response of LH and PRL after injection of GnRH and TRH, respectively. PMID- 2516784 TI - Melatonin secretion in Turner's syndrome: lack of effect of oestrogen administration. AB - Melatonin secretion was investigated in 13 girls with Turner's syndrome before and after long-term oestrogen administration. Oestrogen treatment resulted in an increase in the serum levels of the hormone and a decrease in blood progesterone concentration. No change, however, was observed in the melatonin secretion pattern (in terms of peak values, time of peak level and total melatonin secretion) after oestrogen therapy. A distinct circadian rhythm in serum melatonin was evident in all subjects with peak occurring around 0200 h and concentration similar to those of normal subjects. PMID- 2516785 TI - Influence of oestradiol and progesterone on pulsatile LH secretion in postmenopausal women. AB - Pulsatile LH secretion was studied in six healthy postmenopausal women. Blood samples were obtained every 10 min during an 8-h saline infusion performed before and during the administration of transdermal oestradiol alone (E2; 50 micrograms/day) and in combination with vaginal progesterone (P; 100 mg twice daily). Plasma E2 and P levels reached values similar to those found in the early follicular phase and in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, respectively. The mean plasma LH levels significantly decreased (P less than 0.01) during transdermal E2 with and without vaginal P. A significant increase in the frequency (P less than 0.025) and the amplitude (P less than 0.05) of LH pulses was observed during transdermal E2. The administration of vaginal P to oestrongenized women significantly blunted the frequency (P less than 0.05) and enhanced the amplitude (P less than 0.05) of LH pulses. In all experimental conditions, the mean plasma LH levels showed a positive linear correlation with the amplitude of LH pulses. The present results show that peripheral levels of E2, similar to those of the early follicular phase of the menstrual cycle, can influence the pulsatile pattern of LH secretion, enhancing the frequency and the amplitude of LH pulses. In oestrogenized patients, the increase of peripheral P plasma levels to postovulatory values restored a pulsatile pattern of LH secretion similar to that of the early luteal phase of menstrual cycle. PMID- 2516786 TI - Luteinizing hormone and follicle stimulating hormone secretion patterns in boys throughout puberty measured using highly sensitive immunoradiometric assays. AB - Pulsatile gonadotrophin secretion patterns were studied in 32 normal boys (chronological age, CA 7.2-14.6 years) at different stages of pubertal development (5 in stage G1, 11 in G2, 5 in G3, 4 in G4, 7 in G5). Plasma LH and FSH concentrations were measured at 10 min intervals from 1200 to 1800 h and from 2400 to 0600 h using an immunoradiometric assay with a lower limit of detection of 0.15 IU/l for both LH and FSH. Plasma testosterone (T) was measured hourly. In the young prepubertal boys plasma LH was not detectable during day or night. In contrast, plasma FSH ranged from 0.7 to 1.4 IU/l. Plasma T was not detectable either (less than 0.25 nmol/l). In the older prepubertal boys a discrete pulsatile LH pattern (2 per 6 h) became discernible only during the night (range 0.1-0.4 IU/l). Plasma FSH also revealed a pulsatile pattern only during the night (2 per 6 h), while plasma T still remained undetectable. In the early pubertal boys (G2) a median daytime LH value of 0.37 IU/l was determined with 1 pulse per 6 h and at night definite LH pulses (4 per 6 h) were found in all boys (range 0.4 4.7 IU/l). Plasma FSH increased considerably to a median level of 2.50 IU/l during the day; most boys had a pulsatile FSH pattern (one per 6 h). Plasma T became detectable during the day (median 0.54 nmol/l) and night (median 1.16 nmol/l). With the progression of puberty the mean plasma level of LH and FSH, the LH/FSH pulse number and the LH/FSH pulse amplitude increased; plasma T rose as well, more obviously during the night. In G5, however, the LH pulse number decreased, while the LH level and pulse amplitude still increased, presumably as a result of the increased negative feedback action of sex steroids. Simultaneous LH/FSH pulses developed during the night at onset of puberty but during the day only towards the end of pubertal development. The use of these novel highly sensitive IRMA methods demonstrated nocturnal LH and both diurnal and nocturnal FSH pulsatility to be present in older prepubertal boys. The early detectable FSH level plus the existence of solitary FSH pulses throughout puberty as well as in adult men support the hypothesis of the existence of a GnRH-independent FSH secretion in men. Our results are in accordance with the following hypotheses: (1) puberty is brought about by GnRH secretion increasing with time, both in frequency and amplitude, and first appearing during the night.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2516787 TI - Maturation of thyroid function in normal human foetuses. AB - The functional maturation of an independent foetal thyroid activity was investigated in the present study. Serum concentrations of total T4, free T4, TSH and TBG were measured in 23 foetuses between 18 and 31 weeks' gestational age. Foetal samples were collected by transabdominal needling from the placental cord insertion. TT4, FT4, TBG and TSH levels significantly increased with gestational age. FT4 levels were comparable with the adult range by 28 weeks' gestation; TBG levels reached adult values at approximately 30 weeks, while TT4 was lower than adult levels throughout the whole period studied. TSH values were, in all cases, higher than the normal adult range. A significant positive correlation was present between TT4 and TBG, TT4 and TSH, and TBG and TSH levels; on the contrary, no correlation was demonstrated between FT4 and TSH levels. The TSH/TT4 ratio significantly decreased with gestational age. The results suggest an incomplete responsiveness of the foetal thyroid gland to TSH, while the feedback control system between pituitary and thyroid is operating at a different set point from that in post-natal life. The normal range of thyroid parameters established is of clinical relevance for the antenatal diagnosis, and eventual treatment of thyroid disorders that may seriously damage foetal development and maturation. PMID- 2516788 TI - hCG test in gynaecomastia: further study. AB - In adult men referred with gynaecomastia, the prolonged plasma oestradiol (E2) response to hCG appears to be a useful tool in the diagnosis of feminizing Leydig cell tumour (LCT) of the testis. However, its specificity is uncertain. The hormonal status was therefore studied in 85 men with gynaecomastia including 17 with LCT, 52 with clinically isolated gynaecomastia and 16 hypogonadal men (13 with Klinefelter's syndrome and three with hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism). The data obtained after hCG (5000 IU i.m., n = 85) or GnRH (100 micrograms i.v., n = 70) administration were compared to those of a group of control men. Means of basal gonadotrophin and of gonadotrophin responses to GnRH were similar in LCT and controls but were significantly (P less than 0.001) higher than controls in patients with either Klinefelter's syndrome or isolated gynaecomastia. Half the patients with isolated gynaecomastia had normal gonadotrophin parameters (NGG) while half had significantly (P less than 0.001) higher levels (EGG) than controls, suggesting either primary testicular failure or androgen resistance. The T responses to hCG did not differentiate patients with LCT from either isolated gynaecomastia or controls. A prolonged E2 response (greater than 300 pmol/l on day 3 following hCG) was observed in all patients with LCT, in 10/21 EGG patients and in 3/13 patients with Klinefelter's syndrome. Such a response was observed in only one NGG patient. We conclude that a prolonged E2 response to hCG does not appear to be specific to LCT but that specificity is greatly improved (from 80 to 98%) when the gonadotrophin pattern (basal and/or responses to GnRH) is also taken into account. PMID- 2516789 TI - Effects of treatment with oestradiol/levonorgestrel on bone, lipoproteins and hormone status in postmenopausal women. AB - The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of an oestradiol/levonorgestrel regimen, administered parenterally, on bone metabolism, bone density, lipoprotein metabolism and hormone status. Twenty-five women who had undergone a surgical menopause had an oestradiol/levonorgestrel-containing vaginal ring pessary in situ for 6 months. Within the first month there were sustained changes in the biochemical indices of bone metabolism in keeping with a marked reduction in bone turnover and decrease in bone resorption. Bone mineral content in the distal forearm was measured in 14 patients and a small increase was noted in every patient. Levonorgestrel was well absorbed and the serum levels remained almost constant throughout treatment. There was a gradual increase in serum total oestradiol which became significant at 6 months. Dialysable oestradiol levels rose from 2.6% of total oestradiol at 0 time to 3.3% at 1 month with no further change thereafter. SHBG levels were 23% of pretreatment levels at 6 months. There were sustained decreases in triglyceride, VLDL and HDL cholesterol levels and a transient fall in LDL cholesterol. Total HDL, HDL2 and HDL3 cholesterol levels were reduced by 25, 40 and 21% respectively. The results suggest that levonorgestrel exerts a protective influence on bone either directly or by its effect on the proportion of oestradiol circulating in the free, physiologically active form. The effects on lipoproteins were predominately those of the progestogen component, the lipoprotein risk factors for coronary heart disease being adversely affected. PMID- 2516790 TI - Satellite DNA sequences in the neotropical marmoset Callimico goeldii (Primates, Platyrrhini). AB - Two families of tandemly repeated satellite DNAs were isolated from the neotropical primate Callimico goeldii (Goeldi's marmoset). One satellite, CgoA, is over 70% A + T and has a monomer length of 338 bp. The other satellite, CgoB, is 50% A + T and has a monomer length of 916 bp. Both CgoA and CgoB hybridize strongly with Callimico DNA, but not with the DNA of other new and old world primates. Based upon a neutral substitution rate of 1.5 X 10(-9)/site per year for primates, sequence data from 15 CgoA monomers indicate that the tandem array is at least 30 million years old. Since no other neotropical primate has amplified CgoA sequences, the data suggest that the ancestor of Callimico separated from the other neotropical primates at least 30 million years ago. This value is about fourfold larger than the value of 7-9 million years derived from immunological data by Sarich and Cronin (1980). Possible reasons for this discrepancy are discussed. PMID- 2516791 TI - [CT diagnosis of hepatic cirrhosis caused by schistosomiasis japonica]. AB - The CT findings of hepatic cirrhosis caused by schistosomiasis Japonica comprise in addition to common manifestations of cirrhosis, the peculiar septal and capsular calcifications resulting in a map-like appearance. In advanced cases, septal fibrotic scar retracts the surface of liver and forms shallow notches, giving rise to pseudolobulated contour. Carcinoma may complicate hepatic schistosomiasis japonica with cirrhosis, but large ova-nodule can mimic cancer on CT image. PMID- 2516792 TI - [Clinical features and X-ray manifestations of mucopolysaccharidosis-II-B]. AB - Mucopolysaccharidosis-II (MPS-II) and MPS-I are both characterized by gargoylist dwarfism. MPS-II is of X-linked recessive heredity. Five cases of MPS-II-B in our series were followed up for ten years. Corneal opacity and dysmnesia were not found in all of them. Although MPS-II possessed many radiologic similarities to MPS-I, the former presented certain characteristic features such as butterfish like vertebra, and small triangular malformation of carpal bones and tarsal scaphoid etc. PMID- 2516794 TI - [The effect of aflatoxin B1 on vitamin A status and on microsomal mixed function oxidase in male mouse]. AB - Thirty healty male mice were divided into two groups. One group received oral dose of AFBi (900 micrograms/kg) for seven days and another the same amount of solvent in the same way during this period. AFB1 significantly decreased the content of VitA in the serum and liver, respectively, 60% and 36% less than that of the control, while it increased the content in kidney, 33% more than that of the control. AFB1 markedly induced hepatic microsomal cytochrome P450 and the concentration of cytochrome P450 increased 43%. But no effect was found in the activity of hepatic microsomal NADPH cytochrome P450 reductase by AFB1. The experimental results show that AFB1 can reduce the level of VitA in vivo and this effect on VitA is correlative with induction of hepatic microsome cytochrome P450. PMID- 2516793 TI - Rhythms in the ovulatory cycle. 2nd: LH, FSH, estradiol and progesterone. AB - The circadian profiles of LH, FSH, estradiol and progesterone were compared in a homogeneous group of 15 young normally cycling women, at 4 well characterized times of the menstrual cycle: early follicular (EF), late follicular (LF), early luteal (EL) and late luteal (LL) stages. The circatrigintan profiles of the same hormones were also evaluated. Population-mean cosinor analysis failed to demonstrate a circadian periodicity of LH in any of the 4 stages of the menstrual cycle; a circadian rhythm for FSH was present only in the 2 luteal phases (EL, LL); the same type of rhythmicity was present for estradiol only in the late luteal stage; on the contrary, a highly significant circadian rhythm of progesterone was present in each of the 4 menstrual stages considered (EF, LF, EL and LL). Population-mean cosinor analysis showed a highly significant circatrigintan periodicity of LH and FSH with the acrophases respectively between -109 degrees and -181 degrees and between -74 degrees and -125 degrees. Circatrigintan rhythmicity was also present for estradiol (acrophases between 161 degrees and -245 degrees) and progesterone (acrophases between -246 degrees and -296 degrees). PMID- 2516795 TI - l(1)pole hole is required maternally for pattern formation in the terminal regions of the embryo. AB - Maternal expression of the l(1)pole hole (l(1)ph) gene product is required for the development of the Drosophila embryo. When maternal l(1)ph+ activity is absent, alterations in the embryonic fate map occur as visualized by the expression of segmentation genes fushitarazu and engrailed. If both maternal and zygotic activity is absent, embryos degenerate around 7 h of development. If only maternal activity is missing, embryos complete embryogenesis and show deletions of both anterior and posterior structures. Anteriorly, structures originating from labral and acron head regions are missing. Posteriorly, abdominal segments A8, 9 and 10, the telson and the proctodeum are missing. Similar pattern deletions are observed in embryos derived from the terminal class of female sterile mutations. Thus, the maternal l(1)ph+ gene product is required for the establishment of cell identities at the anterior and posterior poles of the Drosophila embryo. PMID- 2516796 TI - Plasminogen activator expression in F9 teratocarcinoma embryoid bodies and their endoderm derivatives. AB - Plasminogen activators are believed to play an important role in tissue remodeling and cell migration. During mouse embryogenesis, visceral endoderm secretes urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) whereas parietal endoderm secretes tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA). Visceral endoderm from F9 embryoid bodies can transdifferentiate into parietal endoderm under the appropriate culture conditions. We have examined at the protein and mRNA levels the type of plasminogen activator expressed in whole embryoid bodies, visceral endoderm and its parietal endoderm derivatives. Our experiments show that the visceral endoderm on F9 embryoid bodies synthesizes and secretes substantial amounts of both tPA and uPA. In contrast, the parietal endoderm derived directly from the visceral endoderm secretes dramatically increased levels of tPA and decreases production of uPA to low or below detectable levels. These data support the finding that visceral endoderm can transdifferentiate to parietal endoderm. In addition, this transition provides an excellent model for studying the molecular basis of the coincident down- and upregulation of the two plasminogen activators as well as their potential function during embryogenesis. PMID- 2516797 TI - A study of shaggy reveals spatial domains of expression of achaete-scute alleles on the thorax of Drosophila. AB - A study of shaggy mutant clones on the notum reveals that a greater number of cells are diverted into the bristle pathway of differentiation and fewer cells remain to produce the epidermis, shaggy clones differentiate supernumerary microchaetae and macrochaetae but these are found in the correct spatial locations, e.g. clusters of macrochaetae are formed round the position of the extant macrochaetae. The shaggy mutant phenotype requires the functioning of the genes of the achaete-scute (AS-C) complex but a dosage study shows that it is unlikely that the AS-C is overexpressed in shaggy cells. Data are presented that argue, also, for a correct spatial expression of the AS-C in shaggy mutants. A study of clones doubly mutant for shaggy and different achaete and scute alleles is consistent with the hypothesis that the clusters of macrochaetae formed by shaggy represent the restricted spatial domains of expression of the AS-C. The results can be reconciled with the known role for the AS-C, in determining which bristle types differentiate where, and a role for shaggy in the cell interactions, within domains of the AS-C expression, leading to the definition of only one bristle mother cell. PMID- 2516798 TI - Mitotic domains reveal early commitment of cells in Drosophila embryos. AB - In embryos of Drosophila melanogaster all the nuclei in the syncytial egg divide with global synchrony during the first 13 mitotic cycles. But with cellularization in the 14th cycle, global mitotic synchrony ceases. Starting about one hour into the 14th interphase, at least 25 'mitotic domains', which are clusters of cells united by locally synchronous mitosis, partition the embryo blastoderm surface into a complex fine-scale pattern. These mitotic domains, which are constant from one embryo to the next, fire in the same temporal sequence in every embryo. Some domains consist of a single cell cluster straddling the ventral or dorsal midline. Most consist of two separate cell clusters that occupy mirror-image positions on the bilaterally symmetric embryo. Others comprise a series of members present not only as bilateral pairs but also as metameric repeats. Thus a domain can consist of either one, two, or many (if metamerically reiterated) clusters of contiguous cells. Within each cluster, mitosis starts in a single cell or in a small number of interior cells then spreads wave-like, in all directions, until it stops at the domain boundary. Each domain occupies a specific position along the anteroposterior axis--as determined by the expression pattern of the engrailed protein, and along the dorsoventral axis--as determined by cell count from the ventral midline. The primordia of certain larval structures appear to consist solely of the cells of one specific mitotic domain. Moreover, cells in at least some mitotic domains share specific morphogenetic traits, distinct from those of cells in adjacent domains. These traits include cell shape, spindle orientation, and participation by all the cells of a domain in an invagination. The specialized behaviors of the various mitotic domains transform the monolayer cell sheet of the blastoderm into the multilayered gastrula. I conclude that the fine-scale partitioning of the newly cellularized embryo into mitotic domains is an early manifestation of the commitment of cells to specific developmental fates. PMID- 2516799 TI - Microtubule distribution reveals superficial metameric patterns in the early Drosophila embryo. AB - Microtubule distribution was examined in whole mounts of Drosophila embryos from the cellularization of the syncytial blastoderm (stage 6) to the completion of the gastrulation (stage 7) by fluorescence microscopy. During ventral furrow formation, the fluorescence of tubulin network was not uniform, but disposed in zebra stripes. Antibodies against alpha-tubulin showed 14 alternating pairs of darker and brighter transverse areas. The possible significance of this pattern is discussed. PMID- 2516800 TI - [Hyperglycemia in newborn infants. II. Secondary hyperglycemia in the neonatal period]. PMID- 2516801 TI - Plant protein rehabilitation diets and iron supplementation of the protein-energy malnourished child. AB - Thirty-eight children admitted to the paediatric ward of Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital, Ile-Ife, were treated using a local therapeutic regimen for protein-energy malnutrition (PEM). Serum transferrin concentration was measured at weekly intervals to determine the response to and nutritional adequacy of the dietary component of this therapeutic regimen. At discharge, weight for height measurements in the children showed a significant (P less than 0.001) increase in growth although the expected weight for height was not attained. Serum transferrin concentration rose significantly from a mean basal level of 132.1 +/- 17.2 mg/dl to 222.0 +/- 24.6 mg/dl at the end of the first week of hospitalization and at discharge was 403.2 +/- 27.8 mg/dl. Although not statistically significant, mortality was highest amongst children for whom iron supplementation started early on admission. Earlier studies on the aetiology and treatment of anaemia in PEM have argued in favour of routine treatment with iron to prevent the development of anaemia during the recovery phase, but data from this study suggest that iron therapy should not be instituted during the first week of treatment. PMID- 2516802 TI - Trypanosoma cruzi proteins which are antigenic during human infections are located in defined regions of the parasite. AB - Polyclonal antibodies obtained against antigenic proteins encoded by six recombinant DNA clones of Trypanosoma cruzi were used for the ultrastructural localization of the respective antigens in thin sections of parasites (epimastigote, amastigote and trypomastigote forms of T. cruzi) embedded at low temperature in Lowicryl K4M resin. Antigens of high molecular weight containing tandemly repeated amino acid sequence motifs and recognized by sera from patients with Chagas' disease, were located only in the flagellum, where it contacts the parasite cell body. Other antigens were located on the surface of the parasite while still others were found within the flagellar pocket, as is the case with an antigen released during the acute phase of Chagas' disease. Thus, we conclude that some of the T. cruzi proteins which are antigenic in human infections are located in defined regions of the parasite. Some of the antigens were not expressed to the same extent in the three different developmental stages of the parasite. PMID- 2516803 TI - Surface views of nuclear pores in isolated rat liver nuclei as revealed by fracture-flip/Triton-X. AB - We report here the use of fracture-flip (Anderson Forsman, C., P. Pinto da Silva, J. Cell Sci. 90, 531-541 (1988] and fracture-flip/Triton X-100 to examine the cytoplasmic surface of the outer nuclear membrane, and the perinuclear (exoplasmic) surface of the inner nuclear membrane of rat liver nuclei. After freeze-fracture, carbon stabilization and thawing, unfixed nuclei were treated with Triton X-100 to dissolve unfractured portions of the outer nuclear membrane. Flipping of the casts with their carbon-stabilized membrane halves (cytoplasmic half of the outer nuclear membrane; exoplasmic half of the inner nuclear membrane) exposed the cytoplasmic surface of the outer nuclear membrane and the surface of the inner nuclear membrane facing the perinuclear space. After drying, these membrane surfaces were visualized by Pt/C shadowing. We show that the cytoplasmic surface of outer nuclear membrane is covered by numerous large, oblong "kernel-like" globular particles (30-35 nm length, 25-30 nm width), often aligned into curved chains or grouped into clusters. Because of their size and characteristic arrays, we interpret these particles as ribosomes. Over the cytoplasmic surfaces of the outer nuclear membrane the nuclear pore complexes (outer diameter: 120-130 nm) appear as relatively inconspicuous annular structures, only slightly raised against the surrounding areas of membrane surface. Observation of the surface of the inner nuclear membrane facing the perinuclear space reveals prominent, sharply raised, "doughnut-like" nuclear pore complexes (outer diameter: 120-130 nm; inner diameter: 40 nm). Our results indicate the absence of large, protruding, ribosome-like structures lining the nuclear pore at its cytoplasmic surface, as proposed before.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2516805 TI - Vinculin-lipid monolayer interactions: a model for focal contact formation. AB - Vinculin-lipid interactions were investigated in a modified Langmuir trough. Provided proper conditions, vinculin had the potential to penetrate into phospholipid monolayers and to form rigid, cohesive protein films even at phospholipid monolayer pressures similar to those assumed to exist in living cell membranes. The equilibrium constant for this reaction was estimated to be on the order of 2.5 X 10(-9) to 2.2 X 10(-7) mol/liter (for pressures between 25 and 35 mN/m). Penetration velocity depended on lipid composition: it was high with acidic phospholipids, intermediate with mixtures of acidic and neutral phospholipids, and low with neutral phospholipids. Electron microscopy of freeze dried/metal-shadowed vinculin films, recovered from the phospholipid monolayer surface, revealed relatively tightly packed globular particles, 13 to 18 nm in diameter, on average significantly larger than the particles seen in glycerol sprayed and rotary metal-shadowed preparations of soluble vinculin. The lipid monolayer penetration ability of vinculin appears to depend on its conformation. Acid treatment or low salt buffers induced reversible changes in vinculin conformation such that it abolished its lipid penetration potential. These conformational changes could be documented by both circular dichroism and fluorescence spectroscopy. These results indicate that in the focal contact area vinculin may act like a "glue" and link, in a reversible way, stress fibers of cultured cells via their anchor proteins to the extracellular matrix. PMID- 2516804 TI - Expression of rat neurofilament proteins NF-L and NF-M in transfected non neuronal cells. AB - Two cDNA clones fully encoding the rat neurofilament proteins NF-L and NF-M were subcloned into eukaryotic expression vectors behind the strong constitutive viral promoters from SV40 and Rous sarcoma viruses. Transient transfection of L tk- and Cos cell lines with these expression constructs resulted in cells expressing the neurofilament proteins in an intermediate filament-type pattern. Additionally, a putative juxtanuclear organizing center or region was observed in the transfected cells, most noticeable shortly after the transfection procedure. Stable transfections were performed on mouse L tk- and Swiss 3T6 cells using NF-L and NF M constructs bearing an SV40 early promoter driven neomycin selectable marker. Although G418-resistant clones were recovered with both the NF-L and the NF-M constructs, only clones expressing immunofluorescently stainable amounts of NF-M were detected and established. Immunoelectron microscopic analysis revealed NF-M and vimentin proteins to be colocalized on the same intermediate filaments. PMID- 2516806 TI - Modern trends in monitoring in anaesthesia: its benefits and costs. AB - Many monitoring devices, including peripheral arterial catheters, multichannel electrocardiographs, pulmonary artery catheters, capnographs, and pulse oximeters, have vied for acceptance in modern operating rooms. Considerable costs are associated with the use of these monitors. These costs are not limited to the purchase price of the equipment, but extend to the cost of any complications. The use of new equipment is fostered by the belief that new monitors improve the care of patients. However, for some invasive monitoring modalities, it is difficult to demonstrate clinical benefit. PMID- 2516807 TI - Bilateral mammary artery surgery or percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty for multivessel coronary artery disease? An analysis of effects and costs. AB - Seventy-two patients with stable or unstable angina treated since 1983 by multivessel-PTCA(MVP) were retrospectively compared with 44 similar patients that were suitable for MVP, but who had undergone bilateral mammary artery (BIMA) surgery (and additional vein grafts in 60.5% of the patients) since 1986. Both groups were comparable (P = not significant [NS]) for gender, age, most risk factors, objective ischaemia and left ventricular function; however, in the BIMA group there were more previous infarctions (P = 0.02), hypertension (P = 0.03), three-vessel disease (P = 0.0001), and less severe angina (P = 0.007). In the BIMA group, a mean of 3.1 (range 2-5) vessels were treated and in the MVP group 2.0 (range 2-3) vessels (P = 0.0001). Both groups were almost completely revascularized (NS). In 39.5% of the BIMA group, no veins were used and in 20.9% the BIMAs were used as sequential grafts. In-hospital mortality was comparable: 2.3% for BIMA and 1.4% for MVP, so were periprocedural infarctions (13.6% vs 8.3%), rethoracotomies (9.1% vs 0%), emergency procedures (0% vs 5.7%), low cardiac output (2.3% vs 5.6%) and other complications (18.2% vs 9.2%). The mean stay (days) on the ICU/CCU for BIMA was 2.3 and for MVP 1.6 (P = 0.005) and the mean hospital stay for BIMA 12.3 and for MVP 6.6 (P = 0.0001). The maximum and mean follow-up (months) of 43 BIMA and 71 MVP hospital survivors was 35 vs 72 and 9.5 vs 22.3 (P = 0.0001) with a late mortality of 0% and 4.2% (NS). MVP patients, including 12 with re-procedures, had more recurrent angina (17.7% vs 4.7%, P less than 0.05) and more often used anti-anginal medications (62.0% vs 18.6%, P less than 0.0001). Late complications (excluding re-procedures) were comparable for MVP and BIMA (20% vs 9.3%, 4.4% vs 0%, 9.2% vs 14%). MVP patients had more re hospitalizations (34 vs 5, P less than 0.0001), re-catheterizations (33% vs 2.3%, P less than 0.0001) and cardiac re-procedures (16 vs 0, P = 0.0006) than BIMA patients. Recurrent-angina-free survival at 1 year was 96% after BIMA and 64% after MVP (P less than 0.01). Event-free survival at 1 year was 86% after BIMA and 58% after MVP (P less than 0.05).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2516808 TI - Renal failure in myelomatosis. AB - Renal failure is a common presenting feature in myelomatosis. This review offers a practical means for classifying renal failure in this disease. Three groups are identified: (1) those patients whose renal failure improves or is stable when they are maintained on a high fluid intake; (2) the minority of patients whose renal failure progresses despite high fluid intake; and (3) those patients who are fluid-intolerant due to oliguric renal failure or congestive cardiac failure. The difference between groups 1 and 2 is not simply due to differences in response to chemotherapy, for many group-1 patients achieve improvement in renal function without or before loss of light chain proteinuria. It is concluded that all patients with myelomatosis with excess monoclonal free light chain proteinuria are at risk from developing renal failure of the type associated with group 1. The chances of them doing so are diminished if they maintain a high fluid intake. Group 2 encompasses a range of conditions not all of which are clearly defined. There is generally a poor correlation between the physical characteristics of light chains and the presence of group-2 renal failure. PMID- 2516809 TI - Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance and smoldering multiple myeloma. AB - Patients with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) have a monoclonal protein but no evidence of multiple myeloma, macroglobulinemia, amyloidosis, or related disorders. In a long-term follow-up (median, 19 years) of 241 patients with MGUS, 53 (22%) developed multiple myeloma (36 patients), macroglobulinemia (7 patients), primary systemic amyloidosis (7 patients), or malignant lymphoproliferative disease (3 patients). Fifty-seven patients (24%) remained stable and were alive, while 124 patients (51%) died of causes unrelated to the monoclonal gammopathy. Multiple myeloma was diagnosed in the 36 patients 23 to 251 months (median, 9.6 years) after recognition of the M-protein. Smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM) is characterized by a serum M-protein level greater than 30 g/l and greater than 10% plasma cells in the bone marrow but no anemia, renal insufficiency, or lytic lesions. Differentiation of MGUS and SMM from multiple myeloma and macroglobulinemia is difficult at the time of diagnosis of the M-protein, and the patients must be followed up indefinitely. PMID- 2516810 TI - [The variability of physiological parameters as an index of the activity of the system of cerebral circulatory regulation]. AB - Chronic experiments of rabbits revealed the regularities of alterations in the variability of parameters characterizing cerebral blood supply under orthostatic and hypercapnic effects. Their connexion with the degree of activation of the systems controlling the cerebral circulation, is determined. A technique of coupled loads was suggested for a more precise prognostication of the system responses to the action of factors with increasing strength. PMID- 2516811 TI - [The cerebrovascular effects of motion sickness]. AB - In rabbits with implanted electrodes, a diminished reactivity of vascular vessels to functional tests of physical and chemical nature was revealed although the level of cerebral blood flow generally increased. This suggests a reduction of compensatory capacity of the brain circulation system which can result in a change of the brain tissue water balance under the effects leading to an alteration of cerebral outflow and sometimes accompanying seasickness. This was corroborated by the evidence on a change in cerebral tissue impedance under the combined effect of antiorthostatism and seasickness, as well as by the evidence on dynamics of cerebral rheogram pulse waves. PMID- 2516812 TI - [Functioning of the cerebral circulatory system in rabbits during hyperthermia]. AB - In chronic experiments on rabbits, the effect of hyperthermia growing up to 41 degrees C upon the cerebral circulation system, was studied. Cortical blood flow decreased by 20-25% due to hypercapnia and constriction of arterioles whereas the blood flow in the thalamus and hypothalamus either remained the same as initial one or increased insignificantly. The reactivity of cerebral vessels in CO2 inhalation and orthostatic load decreased along with the rise of body temperature. The signs of lesion of the hemato-encephalic barrier and an increase of the water content by 3-4% in the cortex and white matter were revealed in hyperthermia. The impedance data corroborated extracellular character of cerebral oedema. Comparative study of vasodilators euphylline, cavinton and flunaresine has revealed that the calcium blocking agent flunaresine provides the best restoration of the cerebral blood flow level and the reactivity of cerebral vessels in hyperthermia. PMID- 2516813 TI - [Primary plasmacytoma of the thyroid--report of an autopsy case and review of the literature in Japan]. AB - Primary extramedullary plasmacytoma (PEMP) of the thyroid is rare. Only nine patients with PEMP of the thyroid have been reported in Japan to date. We describe an additional autopsy case with PEMP of the thyroid and review of the literature in Japan. A 67-year-old women complaining of swelling of the anterior neck exhibited thin scalp hair, edematous face and a giant, hard, nodular goiter. Laboratory examination showed elevated levels of ESR, collagenous reaction, gammaglobulin, and a M-bow of the IgG-k type in immunoelectrophoresis. No Bence Jones protein was found in the urine. Thyroid function test revealed a subclinically hypothyroid state, showing a T3 of 1.32 ng/ml, a T4 of 10.0 micrograms/dl, a TSH of 23.4 microU/ml and positive thyroid antibodies. The scintigram and the CT scan of the thyroid showed deviation of the trachea by the thyroid tumor and calcification within homogeneous thyroid gland. She underwent total thyroidectomy because of suspected malignancy. The histological examination of the removed thyroid weighing 117gr revealed a proliferation of plasma cells and lymphocytes and small amounts of atrophied thyroid follicles. The immunohistological examination of the removed thyroid showed the monoclonality to IgG-k chain. Plasma cells were stainable with methylgreenpyronine. Twenty-six months after thyroidectomy, she died due to progressive emaciation, anemia, hypoalbuminemia and ascites. Postmortem examination revealed widespread metastasized plasma cell tumors in the liver, intestine, spleen and mesentery with ischemic changes in heart and kidney. Based on our autopsy case and the nine cases reported in Japan, clinical and histological characteristics of PEMP of the thyroid were discussed. PMID- 2516814 TI - Elevated muscle tissue oxygen tension in short-term insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. AB - In order to assess hemodynamic changes in early phases of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, muscle tissue oxygen tensions were determined in 7 newly diagnosed insulin-dependent diabetic patients and in 6 healthy control subjects matched for sex, age and weight. Muscle tissue oxygen tension was measured by polarrographic needle probes while breathing ambient air and oxygen enriched air with an oxygen concentration of 40 per cent as well. Three times during the experiment, heart rates, blood pressures, blood glucose concentrations, and capillary oxygen tensions were obtained. Heart rate, blood pressure, peripheral and autonomic nerve functions did not differ between the 2 groups studied. While breathing ambient air, muscle tissue oxygen tensions were significantly (p = 0.025) higher in the diabetic patients than in the control subjects. In contrast to the control subjects, diabetic patients did not increase muscle tissue oxygen tensions after inhalation of oxygen enriched air despite of an equal increase in capillary oxygen tensions (2p less than 0.05). Local tissue hypoxia does not seem to be a leading cause of hemodynamic abnormalities in the early phases of diabetes. PMID- 2516816 TI - Testosterone metabolism by human axillary bacteria. PMID- 2516815 TI - Metabolic activation of 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene: role of cytochrome P-450 isoenzymes in the formation of DNA and protein adducts in vitro. PMID- 2516817 TI - Interconversion of androst-16-ene steroids by human axillary aerobic coryneform bacteria. PMID- 2516818 TI - Glycosidase inhibitors from algae. PMID- 2516819 TI - Inhibition of mitochondrial beta-oxidation and peroxisomal stimulation in rodent livers by valproate. PMID- 2516820 TI - Urinary carboxymethyl-lysine measurement as a potential indicator of diabetic complications. PMID- 2516821 TI - Site of carcinoembryonic antigen binding to Kupffer cells. PMID- 2516822 TI - Expression of membrane-bound carbonic anhydrase in developing human lung and kidney. PMID- 2516824 TI - Co-operative interactions in the recognition of target cells by cytotoxic T lymphocytes: role of CD8. PMID- 2516823 TI - Synthesis of novel semi-synthetic tight binding inhibitors of pepsin. PMID- 2516825 TI - Effects of ticlopidine and indobufen on platelet aggregation induced by A23187 and adrenaline in the presence of different anticoagulants. AB - As Ca2+ is known to play a fundamental role in platelet function, the effect of combining two platelet aggregating agents (adrenaline and the ionophore A23187) with different effects on Ca2+ was studied at levels subthreshold for aggregation using platelet-rich plasma from eight atherosclerotic patients. Adrenaline lowered the A23187 threshold required to induce aggregation. The effects of treating patients with the antiplatelet agents, indobufen and ticlopidine, on A23187 and adrenaline induced aggregation of platelets prepared in hirudin or sodium citrate was also evaluated. Aggregation was also studied using platelets resuspended in Ca2(+)-free and Ca2(+)-enriched Tyrode solution. Before treatment hirudin treated platelet-rich plasma, which has physiological extraplatelet Ca2+ levels, was more sensitive to A23187 and adrenaline than was citrated platelet rich plasma, which has suppressed Ca2+ levels. Ticlopidine significantly raised the concentration of A23187 required to induce aggregation in citrated but not hirudin treated platelet-rich plasma. Indobufen did not significantly affect A23187 induced aggregation. Ticlopidine acts by inhibiting the glycoprotein IIb IIIa complex on the platelet membranes. Low levels of extracellular Ca2+ and ticlopdine may act synergistically to reduce the aggregatory response of stimulated platelets. PMID- 2516826 TI - Genetic deficiency of purine nucleoside phosphorylase in the mouse. Characterization of partially and severely enzyme deficient mutants. AB - Two independent mutations of purine nucleoside phosphorylase were identified in the first-generation progeny of male mice that had been treated with the mutagen N-ethylnitrosourea and mated to untreated females. The common allele in inbred strains is Np-1a and the mutants are assigned the gene symbols Np-1e and Np-1f. Heterozygotes had approximately half normal purine nucleoside phosphorylase activity in erythrocytes and activity of homozygotes was 17 and 5% of NP-1A for NP-1E and NP-1F, respectively. The following properties are consistent with both Np-1e and Np-1f being point mutations: the expression of residual but markedly reduced activity with normal Michaelis constants for inosine and phosphate, altered isoelectric points, and increased thermal lability. The reduction in erythrocyte activity was also evident in other tissues. A metabolic consequence of the mutations was increased purine nucleoside excretion. Inosine and guanosine, total 150 +/- 84 microM, and inosine, deoxyinosine, guanosine, and deoxyguanosine, total 1490 +/- 190 microM, were present in urine of Np-1e/Np-1e and Np-1f/Np-1f mice, respectively, but not in normal urine, less than 10 microM. PMID- 2516827 TI - Transcription factor ATF cDNA clones: an extensive family of leucine zipper proteins able to selectively form DNA-binding heterodimers. AB - An activating transcription factor (ATF)-binding site (consensus sequence 5' GTGACGTACAG-3') is a promoter element present in a wide variety of viral and cellular genes. The two best-characterized classes of genes that contain ATF sites are E1A-inducible adenoviral genes and cAMP-inducible cellular genes. Here, we report the isolation of eight ATF cDNA clones, each of which is derived from a separate gene. All ATF cDNA clones examined contain a leucine zipper motif and are significantly similar to one another only within this region. The leucine zipper region of ATF proteins is also similar to that of the AP-1/c-jun family of transcription factors, whose DNA-binding site differs from the ATF-binding site at a single position. DNA binding studies reveal two mechanisms for generating further diversity from the ATF proteins. First, some, but not all, combinations of ATF proteins form heterodimers that efficiently bind to DNA. Second, although all ATF proteins bind to the ATF site, their precise interactions with DNA differ from one another, as evidenced by methylation interference analysis. Our results help to explain how a single promoter element, an ATF site, can be present in a wide variety of promoters. PMID- 2516828 TI - Different requirements for formation of Jun: Jun and Jun: Fos complexes. AB - The cFos proto-oncoprotein associates with cJun to form a heterodimer with increased DNA binding and transcriptional activities. It has been suggested that dimerization of these proteins is mediated by the interdigitation of an orderly repeat of leucine residues forming a leucine zipper. In agreement with this model, we find that binding to the AP-1 site requires dimerization of these proteins. Although cFos, itself, does not seem to dimerize and bind to the AP-1 site, Jun: Fos heterodimers have higher stability than Jun homodimers, which accounts for their increased DNA binding activity. Mutational analysis indicates that at least three of the repeated leucines of cJun are important for homodimer formation. However, these residues can be mutated without affecting formation of Jun: Fos heterodimers. In addition, several other residues present between the leucines are also important for both homo- and heterodimerization. These findings provide support for the recent proposal that these proteins dimerize via formation of a coiled coil and suggest that residues other than leucines provide specificity for this interaction. Assuming that dimerization is required for proper alignment of the DNA recognition sites, we generated a cJun mutant containing a small insertion between the dimerization and the DNA recognition domains. This mutant fails to bind DNA, but it acts as a trans-dominant inhibitor of cJun and cFos because it still dimerizes with the wild-type proteins. PMID- 2516829 TI - The role of specific enhancer-promoter interactions in the Drosophila Adh promoter switch. AB - The Drosophila melanogaster alcohol dehydrogenase (Adh) gene is transcribed from two promoters active at different developmental stages. In this paper we show that the promoters are differentially stimulated by two enhancers, the Adh larval enhancer and the Adh adult enhancer. In early larval stages, the larval enhancer stimulates transcription from the proximal promoter; in late larval stages, the two enhancers act synergistically to stimulate transcription from the distal promoter; and in adults, the adult enhancer stimulates transcription from the distal promoter. To determine the basis for these enhancer-promoter interactions, we examined the effect of each enhancer on three different promoters. We found that the adult enhancer is stage specific and stimulates transcription from all three promoters. In contrast, the larval enhancer is potentially active in all stages and stimulates transcription from only two of the three promoters. These observations suggest that normal temporal expression of Adh depends on the stage specific activity of the adult enhancer and the differential response of the proximal and distal promoters to the larval enhancer. PMID- 2516830 TI - Optimization and in situ detection of Escherichia coli beta-galactosidase gene expression in Dictyostelium discoideum. AB - We show that a fusion gene, containing the promoter and 5'-noncoding region of a Dictyostelium discoideum actin 6 gene linked to the Escherichia coli beta galactosidase (beta Gal) gene (lacZ), directs the production of functionally active beta Gal in D. discoideum and that the enzyme can be detected by staining in situ; a procedure which will be of great value in analyzing cell-type-specific gene expression. We illustrate this by fusing lacZ to the promoter of the prespore-specific gene, D19, and localizing expressing cells in migrating slugs. Optimal expression requires the inclusion of termination and polyadenylylation signals and we describe pDDlac, a vector containing a multiple cloning site upstream from a lacZ-Dictyostelium terminator fusion, which can be used to analyze regulated promoters. PMID- 2516831 TI - Divergence of the nucleotide sequences encoding xanthine dehydrogenase in Calliphora vicina and Drosophila melanogaster. AB - We present here two nucleotide sequences, from two different alleles encoding xanthine dehydrogenase in Calliphora vicina. One sequence covers the first exon with 1529 bp upstream from the initial ATG and 1737 bp downstream from the donor end of the first intron. The other sequence starts 2537 bp upstream from the acceptor site of the first intron, and ends 662 bp downstream from the putative polyadenylation site of the transcript. Comparison with the homologous gene from Drosophila melanogaster (rosy) reveals extensive divergence, with differences in the splicing patterns and no detectable homology between introns or flanking regions. Nevertheless, there is 76% identity between the amino acid (aa) sequences. The pattern of aa differences has been analysed and correlated with predicted three-dimensional (3-D) parameters. These studies consistently suggest that the evolution of the protein was strongly biased for conservation of its 3-D structure. Possible functional significance of the aa changes is discussed. PMID- 2516832 TI - Production and secretion of porcine urokinase in Saccharomyces cerevisiae: characterization of the secreted gene product. AB - The properties of porcine urokinase plasminogen activator (u-PA), produced and secreted by Saccharomyces cerevisiae, were studied to evaluate processing of the enzyme by yeast. Porcine u-PA cDNA was positioned behind the triosephosphate isomerase promoter and the yeast alpha-mating factor secretion signal sequences in a yeast expression vector, pZV125. Greater than 99% of the secreted PA activity was found to be single chain (pro-urokinase). The secreted gene product could be converted to two-chain (tc) with plasmin and then purified to homogeneity on benzamidine sepharose. Plasmin cleavage resulted in the formation of high Mr (HMW) and low Mr moieties representing HMW tc and free catalytic domain, respectively, as detected by N-terminal amino acid sequence analysis. Approximately 60-70% of the secreted activity was found to be associated with hyperglycosylated fractions from G-75 sizing columns. Approximately 30% of the total activity was secreted into the culture medium, where levels of activity approached 200 I.U./ml. PMID- 2516833 TI - Kinetics and mechanism of electron transfer between meso-tetra sulphonated phenyl porphyrin iron(III)-apomyoglobin and Fe(EDTA)2- complexes. AB - The kinetics of electron transfer between Fe(EDTA)2- and meso-tetra sulphonated phenyl porphyrin iron(III)-apomyoglobin have been studied by applying stopped flow mixing and monitoring photometric changes at soret band (429 nm). The studies were carried out at pH's 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, and 8 and at temperature between 10 and 40 degrees C. The mechanism proposed on the basis of the dependence of kobsd on Fe(EDTA)2- concentrations at various pH's, followed the rate equation: kobsd = ka[H+] + Kakb/[H+] + Ka.[Fe(EDTA)2-] The values of rate parameters calculated using a weighted non-linear least-squares analysis were: ka, 528 +/- 2 sec-1; kb, 25 +/- 1 sec-1; and Ka, 2.0 +/- 0.1 microM at 25 degrees C and 0.5 M sodium phosphate, and those of thermodynamic parameters calculated by the Eyring equation were: delta H*, 8.1 +/- 0.3 kcal mole-1 and delta S*, -23.4 +/- 1.1 eu at pH 7 and 0.5 M sodium phosphate. PMID- 2516834 TI - Characteristics of the methylammonium/ammonium transport systems of the nitrogen fixing cyanobacterium Anabaena 7120 (ATCC 27893). AB - NH4(+)-transport in Anabaena 7120 was studied using the NH4+ analogue, 14CH3NH3+. At pH 7, two energy-dependent NH4(+)-transport systems were detected in both N2- and NO3(-)-grown cells, but none in NH4(+)-grown cells. Both transport systems showed a low and a high affinity mode of operation depending on the substrate concentration. One of the transport systems showed Km values of 8 microM (Vmax = 1 nmole min-1mg-1protein) and 80 microM (Vmax = 7 nmole min-1mg-1protein), and was insensitive to L-methionine-DL-sulphoximine, a glutamate analogue and irreversible inhibitor of glutamine synthetase. The other transport system showed Km values of 2.5 microM (Vmax = 0.1 nmole min-1mg-1protein) and 70 microM (Vmax = 0.7 nmole min-1mg-1protein), and was sensitive to L-methionine-DL-sulphoximine. Intracellular accumulation of free 14CH3NH3+ showed a biphasic pattern in response to variation in external 14CH3NH3+ concentrations. A maximum intracellular concentration of 2.5 mM and 7.5 mM was reached in the external 14CH3NH3+ concentration range of 1-50 microM and 1-500 microM, respectively. At pH 9, an energy-independent diffusion of 14CH3NH2 leading to a higher intracellular accumulation and assimilation rate, than that at pH 7, was observed. PMID- 2516836 TI - Solubilization of human peripheral nerve Fc gamma receptors and purification of a functional 40 kDa receptor. AB - Extracts from myelinated and unmyelinated nerves, prepared using Tris-HCl buffer with EDTA and ME, contained functionally active receptors for the Fc region of IgG (FcR). This was evident from the results obtained in indirect haemagglutination and rosette inhibition assays. Using a monoclonal antibody, a functional active 40-kDa FcR was purified from the nerve extracts. The receptor was a single-chained glycoprotein with low affinity for native IgG, apparently belonging to the FcRII family. In addition, peripheral nerve extracts contain FcR not recognised by the monoclonal antibody. PMID- 2516835 TI - Glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase and 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase from Lactobacillus casei: responses with different modulators. AB - Glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) and 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (6PGD) were separated and partially purified from glucose-grown cells of Lactobacillus casei. The enzymes had similar pH optima, thermosensitivity and molecular weights. They had different net charges and their pI values were 5.38 and 4.52, respectively. Histidine, arginine, lysine and cysteine residues were essential for the activity of G6PD, and all the above amino acids with the exception of lysine were required for 6PGD activity. Mg2+ activated 6PGD up to 15 mM concentration, above which it was inhibitory. It had no effect on G6PD activity. G6PD was specific for NADP+, but 6PGD showed some activity with NAD+ as the cofactor, although it was essentially NADP(+)-preferring. Both the enzymes, were inhibited by NADPH. 6PGD was also inhibited by its product, ribulose 5 phosphate. ATP inhibited 6PGD only at subsaturating concentrations of NADP+. The inhibition was sigmoidal in the absence of Mg2+ and hyperbolic in its presence. PMID- 2516837 TI - Protein energy ratio as a critical factor in determining growth & glycogen content of muscles in rats. AB - Effect of protein deficiency, which was produced in rats either by feeding low protein diet (8% protein) ad libitum (PD) or by restricting the amount of diet containing 15 per cent protein (protein calorie deficiency; PCD) on the growth in terms of muscle weight, length, cross-sectional area, protein and glycogen content was studied in extensor digitorum longus (EDL), medial gastrocnemius (MG) and plantaris (PL) muscles in rat. Because of decreased total calorie intake, PCD group exhibited higher value for protein/total calorie consumption. Excepting glycogen concentration, the retardation of growth in terms of all parameters studied was less in the PCD group. Glycogen concentration (mg/g muscle weight) in the PCD group was 3.0 +/- 0.3 in EDL and 2.6 +/- 0.3 in PL, whereas the values in PD group were 1.0 +/- 0.1 in EDL and 1.1 +/- 0.2 in PL respectively. This glycogen sparing effect was not evident in MG of PCD group possibly due to the greater number of glycolytic fibres. It is suggested that lesser retardation of growth of muscles and glycogen sparing effect in PCD group, could be due to altered metabolic changes resulting in enhanced gluconeogenesis. PMID- 2516838 TI - Comparative study of functional bracing and plaster cast treatment of stable lateral malleolar fractures. AB - In a prospective, randomized study, the use of the Aircast pneumatic air stirrup was compared with a standard below-knee walking cast in the management of Lauge Hansen supination-eversion, stage II ankle fractures. Forty patients were randomly allocated to the two treatment groups. The use of the air stirrup led to a significant improvement in early patient comfort, post-fracture swelling, range of ankle motion at union, and time to full rehabilitation. We advocate the use of pneumatic air stirrup in the cost-effective management of stable ankle fractures. PMID- 2516839 TI - Enterocutaneous fistulas: effect of nutritional management and surgery. AB - Records of 38 consecutive patients affected by enterocutaneous fistulas were reviewed concerning etiology, site, management, results and prognostic factors. Thirtyfive fistulas resulted from surgical complications, 2 from Crohn's disease and one from pancreatic blunt trauma. Thirty (78.9%) out of 38 fistulas were treated successfully: 22 (57.8%) healed after nutritional treatment, 8 (21.3%) required definitive surgical repair. A significant difference (p = 0.007) in the incidence of medical closure was observed between upper gastrointestinal tract and small bowel fistulas (73.1%) and those located in the large bowel (25%). Large bowel fistulas required definitive surgical repair in 53.8% of cases. Eight patients died prior to fistula resolution; sepsis constituted the major cause of death. Results suggest that the treatment of enterocutaneous fistulas should include early control of infections and appropriate nutritional support. An earlier surgical approach for patients with large bowel fistulas is suggested. PMID- 2516841 TI - Presence of aberrant transcripts of ret proto-oncogene in a human papillary thyroid carcinoma cell line. AB - In a papillary thyroid carcinoma cell line, TPC-1, we found transcripts hybridizing to ret proto-oncogene (proto-ret) cDNA probes. The transcripts hybridized to the probes encoding the kinase domain but not to those of the transmembrane and extracellular domains of proto-ret. The sizes of the main transcripts in TPC-1 were aberrant, being 2.0, 2.5, 4.0 and 5.0 kb. In the neuroblastoma cell lines, the transcripts were 3.9, 4.5, 6.0 and 7.0 kb, which have been proved to be generated by alternative splicing and polyadenylation from the non-altered proto-ret oncogene. All of the four transcripts in TPC-1 are about 2 kb smaller than the corresponding ones in the neuroblastoma. From the length of the transcripts, it is suspected that the transcripts in TPC-1 are a rearranged form of proto-ret. This is the first report describing the aberrant transcripts of proto-ret in a human tumor. PMID- 2516840 TI - DNA modification by 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine in rats. AB - 2-Amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine (PhIP) is the most abundant mutagenic heterocyclic amine by weight in cooked foods. This mutagen was found to produce DNA adducts in all ten tested organs of rats using the 32P-postlabeling method. The level of DNA adducts in the pancreas, kidney and liver increased dose dependently and feeding time-dependently up to four weeks. When diet containing 0.05% PhIP was given to rats for four weeks, levels of PhIP-DNA adducts were relatively high in the lung, pancreas and heart, being around 20 per 10(7) nucleotides, and lowest in the liver, being 2.20 per 10(7) nucleotides. Thus, PhIP showed a unique feature in the formation of DNA adducts compared to other mutagenic and carcinogenic heterocyclic amines, which produce the highest level of DNA adducts in the liver. PMID- 2516842 TI - Contrasting actions of estradiol on the growth of human gastric cancer xenografts in nude mice. AB - The effects of estradiol on the growth of six human gastric xenografts in nude mice were studied and diverse effects were found, including one case of stimulation, two of inhibition and three of unchanged condition. Neither the histological features of the original tumor nor the estrogen-binding capacity seemed to be related to the response to estradiol. It is concluded that the growth of human gastric cancer can be modulated by estradiol. PMID- 2516844 TI - In vivo antitumor mechanism of natural human tumor necrosis factor involving a T cell-mediated immunological route. AB - We have investigated the in vivo antitumor mechanism of natural human tumor necrosis factor (n-TNF) isolated from a culture of human leukemic B cell line (BALL-1), especially its action as an immunomodulator, and found that the in vivo antitumor effect of n-TNF on Meth A sarcoma implanted in BALB/c mice pretreated with monoclonal antibody against T cell-specific surface antigen (Thy-1) was significantly diminished. Furthermore, when BALB/c mice were treated with T cell subset-specific monoclonal antibodies, anti-L3T4 or anti-Lyt-2.2, the antitumor effect of n-TNF on Meth A sarcoma was significantly reduced. Therefore, it was suggested that the in vivo antitumor mechanism of n-TNF might involve a T cell mediated immunological route. PMID- 2516843 TI - Detection of increased fecal carcinoembryonic antigen and its characterization as a membrane-bound form in colorectal carcinoma and other gastrointestinal disorders. AB - The levels and character of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) in feces were investigated by sandwich radioimmunometric assay using anti-CEA monoclonal antibodies NCC-CO-411 and NCC-CO-432. Mean CEA concentration was significantly higher (P less than 0.001) in the feces from patients with colorectal carcinoma and other gastrointestinal disorders as compared to normal adults. More than 90% of the fecal CEA was trapped by a 0.22 micron membrane filter and solubilized by treatment with 1% Triton X-100 or phosphatidyl-inositol specific phospholipase C. In hydrophobic chromatography, most of the fecal CEA was eluted at the lowest (NH4)2SO4 concentration while serum CEA appeared in the more hydrophilic fractions. These results suggest that the majority of CEA exists in feces as an amphiphilic molecule or a membrane-bound form. The increase of fecal CEA may reflect the destruction and abrasion of epithelial cells in various gastrointestinal disorders. PMID- 2516845 TI - Lung cancer risk comparison among male smokers between the "six-prefecture cohort" in Japan and the British physicians' cohort. AB - We estimated the effective duration of cigarette smoking using the data of lung cancer mortality among male smokers of a large-scale cohort study in Japan and evaluated its role in the lung cancer risk difference between male smokers of the Japanese cohort and the British physicians' cohort. By selecting male cohort members who answered that they had started smoking at ages 18-22 (average = 20.3), the subjects of our analysis, which numbered 49,013, were made relatively homogeneous in terms of age at which smoking was started. Assuming lung cancer mortality to be proportional to the 4.5th power of the effective duration of cigarette smoking, i.e., (age-theta)4.5, as was proposed on the basis of the British cohort study by Doll and Peto, the parameter theta was estimated to be 29.4 for male smokers aged 40-64 in 1966; therefore, the estimated duration of cigarette smoking was, on average, 9.1 years (95% confidence interval = 5.8-11.6) shorter than that calculated from the reported age at which smoking was started. Our findings suggested that the low lung cancer mortality relative to daily cigarette consumption in Japan resulted from the shorter duration of cigarette smoking in the Japanese cohort, possibly due to the severe shortage of cigarettes during and shortly after World War II. Once the effective duration of cigarette smoking was adjusted, lung cancer mortality in the range of 5-34 cigarettes per day was fairly comparable to that observed among the cohort of male British physicians. PMID- 2516847 TI - Induction of lymphoma in CDF1 mice by the food mutagen, 2-amino-1-methyl-6 phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine. AB - The mutagenic compound, 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine (PhIP), originally isolated from cooked beef, was tested for carcinogenicity in CDF1 mice of both sexes. When PhIP was given in the diet at a concentration of 0.04%, high incidences and early appearances of lymphomas were observed in both sexes during the 579-day experiment. PMID- 2516846 TI - Modulation of 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene-induced transmammary carcinogenesis by disulfiram and butylated hydroxyanisole in mice. AB - The individual as well as combined chemopreventive actions of disulfiram (DSF) and butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) on 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) induced transmammary carcinogenesis in mice were examined. When nursing mothers receiving normal diet were treated with DMBA (1 mg/mouse) on days 6, 8 and 10 postpartum, the tumor incidence in their 50-week-old F1 progeny was 44.1%. When nursing mothers receiving 0.75% BHA diet, 0.5% DSF diet and 0.75% BHA + 0.5% DSF diet were similarly treated with DMBA, the tumor incidences in their 50-week-old F1 progeny were 14.7% (P less than 0.05), 12.5% (P less than 0.05) and 5.8% (P less than 0.01), respectively. It is concluded that diets containing BHA (0.75%) and DSF (0.5%), singly or in combination, can inhibit transmammary carcinogenesis in Swiss albino mice. PMID- 2516848 TI - Transcriptional enhancement of the human gene encoding for a melanoma-associated antigen (ME491) in association with malignant transformation. AB - A cloned DNA fragment (lambda R31) containing the human gene for melanoma associated ME491 antigen was transfected into mouse fibroblast cell lines and the antigen expression was studied. Our preliminary observation of higher expression of the antigen in more malignant Ltk- cells and weaker expression in less malignant NIH3T3 cells tempted us to investigate the antigen expression in Harvey(H)-ras-transformed NIH3T3 cells. It was observed that malignant transformation of the lambda R31-transfected NIH3T3 cells by H-ras oncogene enhanced the antigen expression to some extent. Northern blot analysis suggested that the enhancement occurred at the transcriptional level. Nucleotide sequence analysis of the 5'-regulatory region of the ME491 antigen gene in lambda R31 identified a number of consensus sequence motifs for binding of transcription factors such as Sp1, AP-2 and polyomavirus enhancer binding proteins 2 and 3. A consensus sequence motif for binding of AP-1, known as a ras-responsive element, was not found in that region. The significance and possible involvement of the transcription factors in the enhancement of ME491 antigen expression are discussed. PMID- 2516849 TI - Lymphokine-activated killer induction and its regulation by macrophages in malignant pleural effusions. AB - Mononuclear cells (MNC) from pleural effusions and peripheral blood of 18 patients with primary lung cancer with malignant pleural effusion were studied. Pleural and blood MNC generated lymphokine-activated killer (LAK) activity similarly when cultured for 4 days with an optimal concentration of interleukin 2 (IL-2). Highly purified lymphocytes (greater than 98%) and monocyte-macrophages (greater than 90%) were isolated by discontinuous Percoll gradient centrifugation from pleural and blood MNC. Pleural macrophages, as well as blood monocytes, showed significant augmenting effects on in vitro LAK cell induction from pleural and blood lymphocytes by IL-2. During daily intrapleural administration of IL-2, significant induction of LAK activity in vivo was observed after 3 days, but then this LAK activity in pleural MNC decreased almost to zero by day 15. Daily injections of IL-2 resulted in reduction in the up-regulation of LAK induction by pleural macrophages and also in increases in the levels of soluble IL-2 receptors in pleural effusions. These findings indicate that in vivo LAK induction of lymphocytes in malignant effusions by IL-2 may be regulated by macrophages in the effusions. PMID- 2516850 TI - Two populations of mouse lymphokine-activated killer cells separated by use of soybean agglutinin. AB - We separated lymphokine-activated killer (LAK) cells induced from spleen cells of BALB/c mice by culturing with recombinant interleukin-2 (rIL-2) into soybean agglutinin-positive (SBA+) and soybean agglutinin-negative (SBA-) fractions with a cell sorter at the time when LAK activity reached a maximum (day 3). We found that the cells with LAK activity were enriched in the SBA+ fraction. Analysis of cell surface phenotypes revealed that the SBA+ cells are of non-T cell origin, while the SBA- fraction consists of T cells. We also found that the large granular lymphocyte (LGL) fraction of spleen cells obtained with a Percoll gradient became SBA+ after culture for 3 days with rIL-2, whereas cells of high density did not. The change in SBA binding sites was also examined on C57BL/6 mouse spleen cells and we found that NK1.1+ non-T cells selectively acquire SBA binding sites at an early stage of activation with rIL-2. On the other hand, sorted SBA- cells gradually acquired SBA binding sites on extended culturing with rIL-2. These results suggest that the expression of SBA binding sites is related to the stage of cell activation with rIL-2, though cells of the NK-lineage became SBA+ at an earlier period of a culture with rIL-2 than cells of the T-lineage. Utilizing these findings, we separated NK-derived LAK cells by means of SBA binding, and used the separated cells for adoptive immunotherapy for experimental pulmonary metastasis. We found that SBA(+)-NK cell-derived LAK cells showed stronger activity for the inhibition of experimental pulmonary metastasis than SBA(-)-T cell-derived LAK cells. PMID- 2516851 TI - Effect of combined intrapleural administration of Lactobacillus casei (LC9018) and adriamycin on experimental malignant pleurisy in mice. AB - The combined effect of Lactobacillus casei YIT9018 (LC9018) and adriamycin (ADR) on malignant pleurisy was investigated using an experimental model in BALB/c mice in which Meth A fibrosarcoma cells were intrapleurally implanted. The control mice died from dyspnea due to pleural effusion, before significant growth of tumor nodules could be achieved in the thoracic cavity. Intrapleural (ipl) administration of LC9018 (20-200 micrograms/head) on days 1 and 5 reduced the effusion volume and induced pleural adhesions in a dose-related manner. A statistically significant and reproducible prolongation of survival was observed at a dose of LC9018 200 micrograms/head: increase of lifespan (ILS) values of 15 39% were obtained. An ipl administration of ADR (2-4 mg/kg) on day 1 was also effective in prolonging survival without severe toxicity (ILS values of 100 122%). The combined use of ADR and LC9018 induced a high incidence of pleural adhesions, a delay in effusion accumulation, and an additive prolongation of lifespan (ILS values of 133-178%), compared with ADR monotherapy. In the combination therapy group, a marked and continuous ipl exudation of neutrophils, macrophages, and lymphocytes was observed with a significant decrease in pleural tumor cells. These findings suggest that ipl administration of LC9018 enhances the effect of ADR, probably through both host-mediated tumoricidal activity and sclerosing effects on the pleura. PMID- 2516852 TI - Growth inhibition and differentiation of murine melanoma B16-BL6 cells caused by the combination of cisplatin and caffeine. AB - We preliminarily investigated the combined effects of cisplatin and caffeine on murine melanoma B16-BL6 cells in vitro. When caffeine was added before or simultaneously with cisplatin, there was little growth inhibition. The addition of 2.0 mM caffeine after 1 h of exposure to cisplatin inhibited growth and induced cell differentiation. This treatment resulted in fewer cells, and the numbers of melanosomes and mitochondria and the amount of Golgi's complex and endoplasmic reticulum were increased. DNA histograms obtained by flow cytometry showed that cells treated with cisplatin alone accumulated in the G2/M phase, with a partial G2 block. The addition of 2.0 mM caffeine after 1 h of treatment with cisplatin reduced this block. Caffeine caused murine melanoma B16-BL6 cells treated with cisplatin to differentiate, and this inhibited growth. PMID- 2516853 TI - Kinetic evaluation of 11C-1-aminocyclopentane carboxylic acid in rabbits bearing VX-2 tumors using positron emission tomography. AB - Tumor detection with 11C-1-aminocyclopentane carboxylic acid (11C-ACPC) showed that this amino acid has a high affinity for malignant tumors. We studied the kinetics of intravenously injected 11C-ACPC in the rabbit VX-2 tumor using positron emission tomography. Three female rabbits bearing VX-2 tumor in the thighs were used. High uptake of 11C-ACPC was seen in the tumor and liver. 11C ACPC in plasma decreased rapidly after injection and its activity in the tumor increased with time. The kinetic evaluation of ACPC uptake into the tumor was performed using the unidirectional transport model. The average values of the transfer constant of 11C-ACPC for VX-2 tumor were 0.030 +/- 0.002 ml/min/g. This preliminary result may form the basis for a quantitative analysis of the in vivo distribution of 11C-labeled ACPC in tumors. PMID- 2516855 TI - Interaction of human apolipoprotein A-I with dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine in vesicular and micellar complexes. AB - The interactions of human apolipoprotein A-I (apo A-I) with dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC) in vesicular complexes at low protein concentrations and in micellar complexes at high protein concentrations are compared. The C-terminal segment of this protein, with a relative molecular weight (Mr) of about 11,000, is protected on trypsin treatment of apo A-I-vesicle complexes. A segment within the sequence from Leu-189 to Arg-215 of apo A-I penetrates the hydrophobic interior of the membrane, as found in a hydrophobic labeling experiment involving 3-(trifluoromethyl)-3-(m-[125I]iodophenyl) diazirine ([125I]TID). No appreciable stretch of apo A-I in micellar complexes was found to be protected from the tryptic digestion. This indicates that the interactions of apo A-I with lipids in the vesicular and micellar complexes are different. The binding equilibrium of apo A-I as to DPPC vesicles at low protein concentrations, as studied by hydrophobic labeling of the bilayer-penetrating segment, is reached within about 1 h, while the formation of micellar complexes at high protein concentrations takes about 24 h at 42 degrees C. Time-dependent labeling studies involving photoreactive phosphatidylcholine (PC) with high apo A I concentrations suggested an initial interaction with the head group region of the bilayer followed by interaction with the tail ends of the acyl chains of the lipid. A possible mechanism for the micellization process is discussed. PMID- 2516854 TI - Multiple myeloma: evidence that light chains play an immunoregulatory role in B cell regulation. AB - Supernatants from human lymphoblastoid and plasma cell lines were added to cultures of normal cells stimulated with pokeweed mitogen (PWM) with the aim of providing an in vitro model for light chain isotype suppression (LCIS). Supernatants from the kappa-secreting cell line LICR-LON-HMY2 were specifically able to block the secretion of kappa-associated immunoglobulin and supernatants from the lambda-secreting cell line U266 were specifically able to block the secretion of lambda-associated immunoglobulin without any effect on the secretion of the other light chain isotype. Supernatant from a human leukemia line, HL60, did not block either kappa or lambda immunoglobulin secretion. Purging studies where kappa or lambda light chains were removed from supernatants of these cell lines suggest that this is a direct effect of light chain and not due to any other nonspecific inhibitory material which may be present. PMID- 2516856 TI - Physicochemical properties of 57 kDa thyroid hormone binding protein from rat liver nuclei. AB - The nuclear thyroid hormone binding protein (NTHB) with the molecular weight of 57 kDa was obtained from rat liver nuclear extracts by using HPLC and DEAE Sephadex A-25 ion exchange chromatography methods. Fluorescein isothiocyanate labeled 3,5,3'-triiodo-L-thyronine (F-T3) was used as a fluorescent probe to identify the hormone binding protein. Purified NTHB has a single binding site for T3 with the apparent binding constant of (3.3 +/- 0.7) X 10(8) M-1. NTHB is an acidic protein with a pI of 5.0. The secondary structure of NTHB is characterized by about 42% helical and 18% beta-structure from CD measurements. PMID- 2516857 TI - Identification of lysine residue at or near active site of luffin-a, a ribosome inactivating protein from seeds of Luffa cylindrica. AB - Luffin-a, a ribosome-inactivating protein from the seeds of sponge gourd (Luffa cylindrica), was modified with 2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (TNBS) at pH 8.0 and 20 degrees C. The inhibitory activity of the modified luffin-a on protein synthesis using rabbit reticulocyte lysate was lost rapidly at a rate compatible with that of the modification of a single highly reactive amino group in the initial stage of the reaction. By cation-exchange FPLC of the products of 5-min modification, TNP-luffin-a containing one modified amino group was obtained and shown to have only 6.7% of the activity of native luffin-a without any gross conformational change. The amino acid composition and sequence of the TNP peptide, isolated by reverse-phase HPLC of the tryptic digest of the TNP-luffin a, unambiguously demonstrate the trinitrophenylation of lysine residue at position 231. From these results, it was concluded that Lys231 of luffin-a is highly reactive to TNBS and is located at or near the active site of luffin-a. PMID- 2516858 TI - Nisin inhibits several gram-positive, mastitis-causing pathogens. AB - Organisms known to cause bovine mastitis, Enterococcus faecalis ssp. liquefaciens ATCC 27959, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 29740, Streptococcus agalactiae ATCC 27956, Streptococcus equinus ATCC 27960, Streptococcus dysgalactiae ATCC 27957, Streptococcus uberis ATCC 27958, and the neotype Staphylococcus epidermidis ATCC 14990 were examined for their susceptibility to the small peptide antibiotic, nisin. Using a disc assay, minimum inhibitory concentrations of nisin ranged from 10 to 250 micrograms/ml among the strains. Examination of the antimicrobial effect of 50 micrograms/ml nisin in milk showed nisin inhibited all gram-positive pathogens tested. PMID- 2516860 TI - Sodium valproate does not alter immune competence in mice. AB - Spleen and thymus weight, delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) to sheep red blood cells (SRBC), contact hypersensitivity to picryl chloride, anti-sheep red blood cell hemagglutinin titers and plaque-forming cells (PFC), resistance against experimental toxoplasmosis as well as serum total and intestinal specific IgA were investigated in Swiss mice given sodium valproate (250 mg/kg/day) orally for 21 consecutive days. Sodium valproate (SV) did not exert marked effects as only DTH to SRBC and PFC numbers were found to be slightly altered. These results suggest that SV is unlikely to alter immune competence markedly. PMID- 2516861 TI - Levamisole restored the compromised state of immunity after specific chemotherapy in experimental schistosomiasis mansoni. AB - Mice infected for 45 days with 120 Schistosoma mansoni cercariae and treated with levamisole (25 mg/kg subcutaneously) have more efficient acquired immunity when challenged with 240 Schistosoma mansoni cercariae the same day of treatment (97.7% # 87.7% in infected challenged controls). In praziquantel-treated mice (500 mg/kg for 2 days orally), the reduction in the percent resistance (45.5%) was accompanied by a significant diminution in the size of granuloma, delayed foot pad swelling and granuloma proportionate T-helper cells number. Levamisole when given two weeks post praziquantel treatment and with the challenge infection increased the percent resistance to 79.2%. The increase in percent resistance recorded in mice receiving both praziquantel and levamisole was accompanied by restoration of granuloma size, delayed foot pad swelling and granuloma proportionate T-helper cells number to infected challenged untreated control values. Results reveal-beside efficacy of levamisole as immunoregulant in schistosome immunity--a possible role for the granuloma as a T-cell mediated response in maintenance of immunity. PMID- 2516862 TI - Effect of prostaglandin E2 on pokeweed mitogen-activated human lymphocyte cultures. AB - It is shown that a short incubation of peripheral human lymphocytes with PGE2 is able to reduce the B cell differentiation induced by PWM. The target of PGE2 action appears to belong to T lymphocytes, since the treatment of non-T cells is uneffective in reducing the immune response. Both OKT4+ and OKT8+ subsets are sensitive to PGE2. Data concerning the role of endogenous as well as exogenous PGE2 either on unfractionated or fractionated OKT4+, OKT8+ and non-T lymphocytes are also discussed. The PGE2 inhibition on immunoglobulin synthesis in PWM stimulated cultures seems to be mediated by a complex effect on both the T cell subsets. PMID- 2516863 TI - Is renal lithium clearance altered in essential hypertension? AB - In order to assess whether enhanced fractional sodium reabsorption in the proximal tubule might contribute to the development of essential hypertension, we examined the relationship between arterial blood pressure and lithium clearance (CLi; used as an estimate of end-proximal fluid delivery) or fractional lithium excretion [FELi; measured using the clearances of creatinine and 51Cr ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) as estimates of glomerular filtration rate] in normal young males (n = 32) and in patients with essential hypertension (n = 44). In neither group was there evidence of a negative correlation between blood pressure and CLi or FELi. Mean values for CLi and FELi in a subgroup of hypertensive patients (n = 20) were almost identical to those in 20 normotensives matched for age, sex and race. These results provide no support for suggestions that a defect in proximal tubular sodium handling is an important factor in the development and/or maintenance of essential hypertension. PMID- 2516864 TI - Diamine oxidase (DAO) activity increase in sera of tumor patients: an unreliable marker. AB - Circulating diamine oxidase (DAO) (EC 1.4.3.6) activity was determined in the sera of patients with different malignant tumors. The increase in this activity only partially reflected tumor activity so it is presumably unreliable as a diagnostic marker. The increase in activity may be linked to the tumor location: the lung and intestine are rich in DAO so the rise cannot be considered a characteristic consequence of the tumor's activity. Besides, increases in DAO activity have also been observed in non-neoplastic diseases. PMID- 2516859 TI - Class I MHC molecules and doxorubicin resistant P388 murine leukemic cells. AB - The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) encodes cell surface and secreted products involved in immune regulation and function. We have measured Class I MHC expression on doxorubicin (DOX) sensitive (P388/S) and resistant (P388/R84 and R84A) murine tumor cells using a monoclonal antibody to H-2d molecules. The present report shows a correlation between increased Class I MHC (H-2d) expression and drug resistance in P388 cells. Exposure of P388 cells to H-2d antibody diminished H-2d expression, whereas, treatment with murine recombinant gamma-interferon increased H-2d expression. Neither treatment significantly altered cellular DOX resistance or chemosensitivity. Thus, H-2d molecules can be used to identify DOX resistant P388 tumor cells but are probably not involved functionally in drug resistance. PMID- 2516865 TI - Different mechanisms regulate the IFN-inducible expression of 40 kDa human 2'-5' oligo (A) synthetase in HeLa and Molt 4 cells. AB - Expression of 40 kDa 2'-5' oligo (A) synthetase can serve as a marker of interferon (IFN) activity on the biological target. The mechanisms of induction of human 40 kDa 2'-5' oligo (A) synthetase by IFNs were investigated in HeLa and Molt 4 cells. Using a combined treatment with cycloheximide and actinomycin D we observed that in HeLa cells IFN-alpha did not need ongoing protein synthesis to induce the enzyme, whereas the addition of cycloheximide prevented the induction by IFN-gamma. IFN-alpha induced the 40 kD enzyme in the T-cell line Molt 4 to a level comparable to that in HeLa cells, but only in the presence of active protein synthesis. These results suggest that an early response gene coding for a positive IFN-inducible protein may be needed in T cells, but not in HeLa cells to regulate the transcription of this 2'-5' oligo (A) synthetase gene. PMID- 2516866 TI - Intraocular penetration of CT-112, an aldose reductase inhibitor, following topical instillation. AB - Intraocular penetration of 5-(3-ethoxy-4-pentyloxyphenyl)thiazolidine-2,4-dione (CT-112), an aldose reductase inhibitor, was investigated in rabbits following topical instillation. The concentration of CT-112 in corneal epithelium, stroma, endothelium, lens, and aqueous humor, was sequentially determined by high performance liquid chromatography. CT-112 peaked in the corneal epithelium, stroma, endothelium and aqueous humor in 30 minutes following instillation, then gradually diminished time-dependently over a period of 24 hours. CT-112 remained detectable in the lens up to 24 hours, with a peak concentration at 2 hours after instillation. PMID- 2516868 TI - Cell wall formation in regenerating protoplasts of Schizosaccharomyces pombe: study by high resolution, low voltage scanning electron microscopy. AB - The ultrastructure of regenerating cell wall in Schizosaccharomyces pombe protoplasts was studied with a high resolution, low voltage scanning electron microscope (LVSEM). In contrast to the transmission electron microscopy, the LVSEM images give three-dimensional information on the cell wall regeneration in yeast protoplasts. We found that, after only a few minutes of incubation, the protoplasts began to show protuberances in a unipolar manner, and a fibrilar network was formed asymmetrically which covered the whole surface of the protoplasts after 5 hr. The network consisted of microfibrils about 8 to 10 nm wide, forming flat and wavy bundles of various widths and lengths, up to about 200 nm wide and 1 micron long, mainly made of yeast glucan. Free ends of microfibrils were seldom found. Interfibrillar spaces were progressively filled with granular particles and finally the complete cell wall was formed after 12 hr. The fibrillar network was destroyed by the digestion with beta (1----3) glucanase. When protoplasts were regenerating in the presence of aculeacin A, the fibrillar networks were not formed, resulting in incomplete cell wall formation. These observations suggest that beta-glucan is the main component of the microfibrils and that it plays an important role in the formation of the cell wall in S. pombe. PMID- 2516871 TI - Sporulation of several species of Streptomyces in submerged cultures after nutritional downshift. AB - Streptomyces griseus ATCC 10137, S. griseus IMRU 3570, S. griseus JI 2212, S. acrimycini JI 2236 and S. albus G sporulated abundantly in several liquid media after nutritional downshift. Spores formed in submerged cultures were viable and as thermoresistant as aerial spores. Scanning electron microscopy showed that submerged spores are morphologically similar to aerial spores. The sporulation of the Streptomyces strains tested in complex medium appeared to be triggered by phosphate nutritional downshift, induced by addition of Ca2+ to the medium. Spore shaped bodies were formed by S. lividans JI 1326 and S. coelicolor JI 2280 when grown in complex medium supplemented with Ca2+ and proline. The thermoresistance of these spore-shaped bodies differed from that of aerial spores. PMID- 2516867 TI - Prevention of lens protein-induced ocular inflammation with cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase inhibitors. AB - By the use of fluorophotometry, ocular inflammation induced by lens proteins can be objectively quantified. This method of measuring inflammation was applied to studying the effectiveness of a cyclooxygenase inhibitor, indomethacin, and a lipoxygenase inhibitor, REV 5901, in reducing ocular inflammation induced by lens proteins. Pretreatment with indomethacin prevented the leakage of fluorescein into the anterior chamber up to 2 hrs after intracameral injection of lens proteins. After the first 2 hrs, fluorescein concentration in the pretreated eye rapidly increased to equal the control eye by 4 hrs. When REV 5901 was used to pretreat the eye, there was an increase in fluorescein leakage up to 3 hrs after lens protein injection. However, when a combination of indomethacin and REV 5901 was used to pretreat the eye, there was a significant reduction in fluorescein leakage up to 5 hrs after the injection of lens proteins. The reduction of fluorescein leakage with a combination of indomethacin and REV 5901 was greater than that obtained with prednisolone alone. These results indicate that prostaglandins are the primary mediators of inflammation in the early phase (less than 3 hr) of lens protein induced ocular inflammation and leukotrienes are the primary mediators in the late phase (greater than 3 hr) of lens protein induced ocular inflammation. Also the use of a nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug which blocks only one arm of the arachidonic acid cascade may potentiate the production of metabolites in the other arm of the cascade. By using a combination of a cyclooxygenase inhibitor and a lipoxygenase inhibitor, metabolites from both arms of arachidonic acid cascade are reduced, hence reducing inflammation in both the early phase and late phase of lens protein induced ocular inflammation. PMID- 2516869 TI - The effect of oxygen on denitrification in Paracoccus denitrificans and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. AB - Denitrification by Paracoccus denitrificans and Pseudomonas aeruginosa was studied using quadrupole membrane-inlet mass spectrometry to measure simultaneously and continuously dissolved gases. Evidence was provided for aerobic denitrification by both species: in the presence of O2, N2O production increased in Pa. denitrificans, while that of N2 decreased; with Ps. aeruginosa, the concentrations of both N2 and N2O increased on introducing O2 into the gas phase. Disappearance of NO-3 was monitored in anaerobically and aerobically grown cells which were maintained either anaerobically or aerobically: the rate and extent of NO-3 utilization by both species depended on growth and maintenance conditions. The initial rate of disappearance was most rapid under completely anaerobic conditions, and lowest rates occurred when cells were grown anaerobically and maintained aerobically. In nitrogen balance experiments both species converted over 87% of the added NO-3 to N2 and N2O under both anaerobic and aerobic maintenance conditions. PMID- 2516870 TI - Evolutionary relationships among bacterial carbamoyltransferases. AB - An immunological approach was used for the study of ornithine carbamoyltransferase (OTCase) evolution in bacteria. Antisera were prepared against the anabolic and catabolic OTCases of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Aeromonas formicans as well as against OTCase and putrescine carbamoyltransferases from Streptococcus faecalis; these antisera were then tested against the unpurified OTCases, either anabolic or catabolic, of 34 bacterial strains. Extensive cross-reactions were observed between the antisera to catabolic OTCases from P. aeruginosa, A. formicans and S. faecalis and the catabolic enzymes from other species or genera. These antisera cross-reacted also with the anabolic OTCases of strains of the Enterobacteriaceae but not with the anabolic OTCases of the same species or of other species or genera. The cross reaction measured between the antisera against P. aeruginosa anabolic OTCase and the anabolic OTCases of other Pseudomonas were largely in agreement with the phylogenic subdivision of Pseudomonas proposed by N. J. Palleroni. The correlation was also significantly higher with the anabolic enzyme of an archaeobacterium, Methanobacterium thermoaceticum, than with the catabolic or anabolic OTCases from other genera in the eubacterial line. The antiserum raised against A. formicans anabolic OTCase was quite specific for its antigen and appeared to be raised against the heaviest of the various oligomeric structures of the enzyme. PMID- 2516872 TI - Quantitation of expression of idiotopes recognized by a panel of monoclonal antibodies in normal serum immunoglobulin: use of a novel 4-stage ELISA assay. AB - This paper describes the application of a sensitive ELISA assay detecting as little as 10 ng/ml of a specific idiotope. Using this assay we were able to divide monoclonal anti-idiotypic antibodies generated using a single IgG1 lambda paraprotein as the immunogen into three distinct groups. Seven antibodies detected determinants which were expressed only by the immunogen. The remaining seven antibodies all reacted with normal serum immunoglobulin. Four antibodies reacted with "public" idiotopes which were strongly expressed by serum immunoglobulin, and three antibodies reacted with "restricted public" idiotopes which were only weakly expressed by serum immunoglobulin. This last group may be of significant interest as agents for the immunotherapy of B-cell malignancies. The conservation of expression of these idiotopes in many individual sera suggests that they have a physiological role in immune regulation and would therefore be excellent targets for immunotherapy of B-cell tumours while their quantitatively low expression by circulating immunoglobulin is unlikely to interfere with tumour cell specific binding in vivo. PMID- 2516873 TI - 1-nitronaphthalene. PMID- 2516874 TI - [The hygienic and epidemiologic importance of water disinfection in pools used for medical rehabilitation]. AB - The water in the medical rehabilitation pools has some specific features in respect to hygiene--and--epidemiological casualty, bringing to an increase of infection risks by many diseases. It presents a way to communicate carriers from one patient to another, and thus the risk of infection. Major infections communicated by pool water are the nose, mouth, ear and larynx infections, and all the other ones are only sporadic and of minor importance in the periods of passive epidemiological situations. Apart from the microbiological contaminations and chemical agents (nitrogenous compounds), the chemical parameters of water present important factors. Chlorine compounds used for water disinfection have their advantages and disadvantages, and their disinfection action is influenced by numerous factors. PMID- 2516875 TI - [Value of electroencephalographic examination in the diagnosis of chronic carbon dioxide poisoning]. AB - The aim of this study was to assess the value of EEG examination for the diagnosis of chronic CS2 intoxication in individual cases. 100 electroencephalograms obtained from a sample of 100 workers suspected of CS2 intoxication, treated in clinical department were analysed. The mean age of the group was 51, the mean duration of exposure was 24 years. Chronic CS2 intoxication was diagnosed in 49 persons, with prevalence of psycho-organic syndrome in 23 of them. Out of 100 EEG records, 35 were normal, 48 in normal limits, 12 within the border zone, 5 records were abnormal. In the group of 49 patients with chronic CS2 intoxication 3 records were abnormal, 6 were in the border zone. EEG disorders were found with the similar incidence in groups that differed as far as the clinical picture and the CS2 exposure period. In the authors opinion results of the EEG investigations cannot be considered as a reliable criterion in the diagnosis of chronic CS2 intoxication. The appearance of EEG abnormalities in workers exposed to CS2 should give rise to perform a more rigorous and extended neurological examination. PMID- 2516876 TI - Inhibin, activin, and follistatin: regulation of follicle-stimulating hormone messenger ribonucleic acid levels. AB - Primary pituitary cell cultures derived from adult male rats were used to explore the direct effects of purified porcine inhibin and follistatin, and recombinant human activin A on FSH beta, as well as LH beta and alpha-subunit mRNA levels. Subunit mRNAs were determined by blot hybridization using alpha, LH beta, and FSH beta cDNA and genomic fragments. Treatment with inhibin for 72 h significantly suppressed alpha and FSH beta mRNA levels with parallel changes in FSH secretion. No change in LH beta mRNA levels was observed. A decrease in FSH beta mRNA to undetectable levels was seen 4 h after inhibin administration. Recombinant human Activin A caused dose-dependent and parallel increases in FSH beta mRNA levels and FSH secretion. This increase was evident at 4 h after activin administration and maintained at longer times. alpha and LH beta mRNA levels remained unchanged. Follistatin addition to cultures for 72 h significantly reduced FSH beta mRNA levels. In a time-course experiment, a reduction in FSH beta mRNA to undetectable levels was observed 24 h after follistatin administration. There were no changes in alpha or LH beta mRNA levels. These data demonstrate that the actions of these gonadal peptides on FSH secretion may be accounted for, at least in part at the level of biosynthesis, by reductions in FSH beta mRNA levels directly at the level of the anterior pituitary gland. PMID- 2516878 TI - Survival and growth of Bacillus cereus in Egyptian bread and its effect on bread staling. AB - Bread was made from dough previously inoculated with spores of three Bacillus cereus strains at different inoculation levels. Counts of survivors and bread staling were determined in bread during storage at 25 degrees C. The total aerobic bacteria, sporeformer and B. cereus counts in seven different wheat flours were 3.0 x 10(6) to 9.1 x 10(7), 3.2 x 10(5) to 1.5 x 10(6) and 50-100 colony forming units (CFU/g). About one in a thousand bacteria were found to survive baking. On the other hand, no multiplication took place, however, until the bread had been stored for more than 3 days. Also, survival and multiplication of B. cereus spores was shown to depend on the kind of strains and type of bread. The addition of B. cereus strains to the dough gave bread with higher freshness than the control sample. This was quite noticeable in inoculated pan bread during storage. It is possible to conclude from the results that B. cereus survive the baking process particularly if original contamination is high. Also increasing the freshness of the bread does not necessarily mean better ingredient and processing conditions. PMID- 2516877 TI - Thyrotropin-releasing hormone gene expression in normal thyroid parafollicular cells. AB - The rat TRH gene encodes a 255-amino-acid precursor polypeptide, preproTRH, containing five copies of TRH and seven non-TRH peptides. Expression of this gene is well documented in the central nervous system, particularly in the hypothalamus. Thyroids also contain TRH immunoreactivity, but it is unknown whether this immunoreactivity results from expression of the TRH gene or from other genes encoding TRH-like products. Since the CA77 neoplastic parafollicular cell line expresses the TRH gene, we investigated whether TRH gene expression also occurs in normal thyroid parafollicular cells. Northern analysis of total thyroid RNA with a preproTRH-specific RNA probe identified a single hybridizing band the same size as authentic TRH mRNA found in hypothalamus and CA77 cells. Gel filtration analysis of thyroid extracts identified the same 7-kilodalton and 3-kilodalton species of immunoreactive preproTRH53-74 previously identified in hypothalamus and CA77 cells. Immunoreactive preproTRH115-151, not previously identified, was found in all three tissues. Part of this immunoreactivity comigrated with the synthetic preproTRH115-151 standard on gel filtration and reversed-phase HPLC. PreproTRH53-74 was localized to thyroid parafollicular cells by immunostaining. These findings demonstrate authentic TRH gene expression by normal rat thyroid parafollicular cells and establish the CA77 cell line as the only model system of a normal TRH-producing tissue. In addition to expanding the range of neuroendocrine peptides known to be produced by parafollicular cells, these results also suggest a potential paracrine regulatory role for TRH gene products within the thyroid. PMID- 2516883 TI - Triamterene increases lithium excretion in healthy subjects: evidence for lithium transport in the cortical collecting tubule. AB - The possible presence of lithium transport beyond the proximal tubule was examined by measuring lithium excretion after administration of triamterene, a potassium-sparing diuretic, exclusively acting in the cortical collecting tubule. Eight young and healthy volunteers were studied on two occasions during maximal water diuresis. After obtaining baseline values triamterene (100 mg orally) or placebo was administered, and measurements continued for 4 hours. Creatinine clearance was used as a marker of glomerular filtration rate, and phosphate excretion was used as an additional marker of proximal sodium transport. Compared to placebo (P), triamterene (T) caused a significant increase in fractional excretion of sodium (P, 0.74 +/- 0.08%; T, 1.73 +/- 0.24%, mean +/- SEM; P less than 0.01), and lithium (P, 21.2 +/- 1.3%; T, 27.5 +/- 1.5%; P less than 0.01), whereas fractional excretion of phosphate remained unchanged (P, 9.8 +/- 1.3%; T, 9.4 +/- 1.5%; P = NS). These results indicate that lithium is transported in the cortical collecting tubule, and provide further evidence that the use of lithium as a marker of purely proximal tubular sodium transport is of limited value. PMID- 2516879 TI - [Adenocarcinoma of the duodenum associated with skin neurofibromatosis and Caroli's disease]. AB - A case of primary adenocarcinoma of the duodenum associated with Recklinghausen's disease and Caroli's disease provides the opportunity to review the literature. Malignant tumours of the duodenum are extremely rare and even rarer is their association with R's and Caroli's diseases. It should not be forgotten that in Recklinghausen's disease gastro-intestinal involvement is possible. Caroli's disease is diagnosed anatomopathologically. Surgical resection remains the sole satisfactory treatment when the tumour has not spread locally or at a distance. If it has, treatment must be palliative. PMID- 2516881 TI - Treatment of glomerular disease with cyclosporin A. PMID- 2516880 TI - Germicidal effectiveness of Dialox, a new stable peroxyacetic acid solution, in the re-use of high-flux dialysers. AB - In this study we evaluate the effectiveness of a newly available peroxyacetic acid solution (Dialox) as a disinfecting agent in the re-use of highly permeable dialysers. The germicidal properties of Dialox were tested in an in vitro trial on previously used haemodiafilters (HF80, Fresenius) highly contaminated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Mycobacterium smegmatis or sporulated Bacillus cereus. Complete freedom from bacterial contamination was observed 5 min after the reprocessing treatment on a Renatron reprocessing machine, using the currently marketed Dialox concentrate. PMID- 2516882 TI - Complement receptor (CR1) and IgG or IgA on erythrocytes and in circulating immune complexes in patients with glomerulonephritis. AB - This study reports the quantitative analysis of complement receptor (CR1) molecules on erythrocyte surface, the amount of immunoglobulin-containing material (IgG-IC and IgA1-IM) on the erythrocyte surface, and the concentrations of circulating immune complexes (IgG-CIC and IgA-CIC); also reported are the HLA phenotypes of 44 patients affected by various forms of glomerulonephritis (including 20 primary IgA nephropathy, 11 membranous glomerulonephritis, 9 lupus nephritis and 4 renal vasculitis). Erythrocyte CR1 molecules were found to be decreased (P less than 0.02) and erythrocyte IgG-IC were less than in controls (P less than 0.025) in lupus nephritis patients, whereas IgG-CIC were significantly greater (P less than 0.02). In patients affected by primary IgA nephropathy, mean erythrocyte CR1 concentrations were significantly decreased (P less than 0.02). Patients with impaired renal function had mean erythrocyte CR1 values significantly greater than those with normal renal function (P less than 0.002). Immunoglobulin-containing material on the erythrocyte surface was not significantly increased, whereas the serum concentrations of both IgA-CIC and IgG CIC were significantly increased (P less than 0.02). In membranous nephropathy erythrocyte CR1 molecules were quantitatively similar to control data and no increase in CIC was observed. Conversely, erythrocyte IgG-IC were significantly increased (P less than 0.01). No significant relationship among erythrocyte CR1 molecules, erythrocyte surface-associated immunoglobulins, CIC, and HLA phenotype was observed in any patient group. PMID- 2516884 TI - Frequency of mesangial IgA deposits in a non-selected autopsy series. AB - The frequency of mesangial IgA deposition was examined in 250 consecutive autopsy cases without known renal disease. Diffuse granular mesangial deposits of IgA were detected in 12 of 250 cases (4.8%). In six patients IgA deposits were associated with liver cirrhosis. Six patients (2.4%) suffered from various other conditions including endocarditis, bronchial asthma, cardiovascular disease, and neoplasia. Two of these patients had completely negative urine analysis on repeated investigations, whereas three patients exhibited microscopic haematuria and/or mild proteinuria. IgA1 was the major constituent in all specimens. C3c deposits in glomeruli were detected in one kidney. Our findings indicate that clinically overt renal disease is present in only a limited proportion of individuals with mesangial IgA deposits. Apparently, it represents the tip of an iceberg. PMID- 2516885 TI - Proteinuria and haematuria are frequently present in patients with lung cancer. AB - The aim of the study was to ascertain whether there is an increased occurrence of proteinuria and/or haematuria among lung cancer patients. As a control group we selected patients with bronchial asthma treated at the same hospital and during the same period as the lung cancer patients. The study comprised a retrospective part, where observations were made at two hospitals on 166 and 284 lung cancer patients. Proteinuria was observed in 9% and 13% and haematuria in 5% and 9% of these patients. The prevalences were significantly greater than among the asthmatic patients. This result prompted a prospective case-control study involving 150 consecutive patients with lung cancer and asthma, respectively. Twelve patients in the cancer group and one asthmatic patient had a daily urine protein excretion exceeding 100 mg (P less than 0.004); haematuria was noted in 14 and one, respectively (P less than 0.002). We conclude that the occurrence of proteinuria and haematuria is unexpectedly increased among patients with lung cancer. PMID- 2516886 TI - Carnitine and carnitine esters in acute renal failure. AB - Plasma concentrations of carnitine and carnitine esters were determined in patients with multiple forms of acute renal failure with and without sepsis, and also before and after haemodialysis therapy. Total carnitine, free carnitine, short-chain and long-chain acylcarnitine values of both groups of acute renal failure patients were markedly elevated compared with healthy subjects and chronically uraemic patients undergoing regular haemodialysis treatment. Carnitine and carnitine esters did not differ between septic and non-septic patients before and after haemodialysis with dialysers made of cuprophane or polysulphone. Animal experiments with acutely uraemic rats were performed in order to determine whether the liver or the kidney may be responsible for elevated carnitine and carnitine esters in acute renal failure. Plasma and liver total carnitine, free carnitine, short-chain acylcarnitine and long-chain acylcarnitine were significantly elevated in sham-operated animals, and further in ureter ligated and bilateral nephrectomised rats. Skeletal muscle and heart muscle carnitine and carnitine esters remained the same as in sham-operated controls. Our data demonstrate markedly increased liver carnitine synthesis and carnitine acylation in an acute uraemic rat model even after binephrectomy and 48 h food depletion and in the presence of elevated serum carnitine concentrations. Furthermore, from our clinical study we conclude that there is no need for carnitine supplementation in patients who developed acute renal failure in the postoperative and post-traumatic state under adequate nutrition even when requiring daily haemodialysis. PMID- 2516888 TI - Effects of human recombinant erythropoietin on anaemia, systemic haemodynamics and renal function in predialysis renal failure patients. AB - Seven anaemic patients with predialysis chronic renal failure were treated with human recombinant erythropoietin. Anaemia was improved, with a 31% increase in haematocrit, but blood pressure increased in all patients with an average of 12% in systolic (P less than 0.01), 14% in diastolic (P less than 0.05) and 13% in mean blood pressure (P less than 0.05). Blood volume was significantly increased by an average of 12%. Cardiac output increased in three of seven patients, and total peripheral resistance in four. GFR, RBF and RPF were not changed but filtration fraction increased significantly (P less than 0.05). It is suggested that blood pressure elevation might be developed as a result of volume expansion, elevated cardiac output, and increased total peripheral resistance. PMID- 2516887 TI - Reduced deposition of aluminium in trabecular bone of uraemic rats treated with dihydroxylated vitamin D metabolites. AB - The rate of aluminium accumulation in bone may be related to the presence of vitamin D metabolites. The present study investigated the effect of 1,25(OH)2D3 (24 pmol/d s.c.) and 24R,25(OH)2D3 (480 pmol/day), combined or alone, on the deposition of aluminium (119 mumol/kg per day) in bone of uraemic rats during concomitant parenteral administration of aluminium for 9 weeks. Bone histomorphometry of trabecular bone revealed a severe low-turnover osteodystrophy in aluminium-treated uraemic rats, as evidenced by a decrease in osteoblastic osteoid surfaces and mineral apposition rates. 1,25(OH)2D3 as well as 24R,25(OH)2D3 decreased stainable bone aluminium and the aluminium content of trabecular bone and, in parallel, the number of osteoblasts and osteoclasts increased. Additional treatment with one or both vitamin D metabolites 14 days prior to the aluminium load further improved these results. Despite these effects, dynamic histomorphometric parameters remained suppressed and osteoidosis persisted. Serum PTH concentrations were significantly elevated in aluminium loaded uraemic rats treated with 24R,25(OH)2D3 alone compared to controls. In conclusion, administration of 1,25(OH)2D3 or 24R,25(OH)2D3 reduces the accumulation of aluminium in trabecular bone in uraemic rats and prevents some of its excess toxicity. The mechanism of action may be different for either vitamin D metabolite; however, combined treatment does not result in further reduction of the accumulation rate of aluminium in bone in this model. PMID- 2516889 TI - Hyperparathyroidism does not influence the abnormal primary haemostasis in patients with chronic renal failure. AB - Patients with chronic renal failure suffer from secondary hyperparathyroidism and have greatly increased blood concentrations of intact parathyroid hormone (PTH) and PTH fragments. Thus PTH has been regarded in the last few years as a uraemic toxin possibly responsible for many clinical manifestations of the uraemic syndrome including a tendency to prolonged bleeding. Since PTH inhibits platelet aggregation 'in vitro', the possibility that hyperparathyroidism of uraemia plays a role in the pathogenesis of uraemic bleeding has been considered. Clinical data to support this possibility is not available so far. In this study we have correlated the skin bleeding time, the best clinical marker of uraemic bleeding tendency, with serum concentrations of intact PTH or PTH fragments in 40 patients with chronic renal failure undergoing chronic haemodialysis. Since the skin bleeding time is known to be influenced by packed cell volume (PCV), we also considered two distinct groups of uraemic patients on the basis of their PCV values. The results indicated that bleeding time does not correlate with serum concentrations of intact PTH or PTH fragments. Also, no correlation has been found between PTH values and blood concentrations of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and hydroxyproline. It is concluded that elevated PTH values in renal failure patients do not contribute to uraemic platelet defect, as reflected by the skin bleeding time. PMID- 2516890 TI - Platelet lipid peroxidation in haemodialysis patients: effects of vitamin E supplementation. AB - In haemodialysis patients, increased concentrations of malonyldialdehyde and decreased vitamin E content indicate lipid peroxidation in the platelets from oxidative damage. The same process has been described in red blood cells and in mononuclear cells in peripheral blood. However, platelet aggregation is within normal limits and does not change after treatment with vitamin E. On the other hand vitamin E supplementation reverts completely the biochemical abnormality of the platelets. PMID- 2516891 TI - Correction of anaemia of chronic renal failure with recombinant human erythropoietin: safety and efficacy of one year's treatment in a European multicentre study of 150 haemodialysis-dependent patients. AB - One hundred and fifty patients undergoing regular haemodialysis for end-stage renal failure entered a trial of treatment for anaemia with recombinant human erythropoietin (r-HuEPO). At data cut-off 37 patients (24.6%) had dropped out for various reasons; most of them (n = 22) discontinued because of kidney transplantation (after 3-17 months of treatment). The initial dose was 24 U/kg i.v. thrice weekly, with subsequent dose escalations after a minimum of 2 weeks if the haemoglobin (Hb) was less than 10% above the pretreatment baseline. One hundred and forty-three patients who were eligible for efficacy analysis achieved an Hb increase of greater than or equal to 2 g/dl, and all 139 patients eligible for 'full response' analysis (Hb between 10 and 12 g/dl) were dose titrated to reach this arbitrarily defined optimal range. Patients' response to r-HuEPO treatment was independent of age, weight, nephric state or duration of dialysis treatment. To maintain the Hb within the range of 10-12 g/dl during 1 year's treatment (n = 96) a median weekly r-HuEPO dose of 200 U/kg (range 150-300) divided into one, two, or three administrations appeared to be adequate. This maintenance dose depends slightly on the patient's baseline Hb. The study provides evidence that long-term treatment with r-HuEPO is safe. In 48 patients (of whom 12 had no history of hypertension) elevation of blood pressure required additional treatment, which was effective in all but one who was withdrawn from the study. Four patients had seizures and one suffered hypertensive encephalopathy without convulsions.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2516892 TI - Central venous access for haemodialysis using the Hickman catheter. AB - One hundred and seven Hickman catheters for haemodialysis were inserted in 90 end stage chronic renal failure patients, and were used for 1-448 days (median 45 days). Sixty-nine per cent of the patients were treated without any problem for 1 165 days (median 34 days). Clinically evident complications occurred in 44 catheters inserted in 28 patients, and included outflow obstruction (16.8% of the catheters) and thrombosis (13.1% of the catheters). However, many episodes of clotting or insufficient flow could be corrected by simple manoeuvres. Other less frequent complications were recorded: sepsis, mainly in patients with increased risk factors (4.1% of the catheters), laceration of the catheter (3.7%) and occasional cases of jugular-vein phlebitis, transient palsy of a vocal cord, haematoma of the wound, and bleeding of the cutaneous orifice. No clinical sign of subclavian or innominate-vein thrombosis was observed. Nevertheless, a prospective study conducted in 50 asymptomatic patients demonstrated a 12% rate of anomalies of the venous system, although two-thirds of these alterations were mild and had no consequence. When the present series is compared to the results obtained with currently available percutaneous haemodialysis catheters, it is concluded that the Hickman catheter is a safe, comfortable and efficient vascular access device. PMID- 2516893 TI - Renal vein thrombosis in a dehydrated patient on an oral contraceptive agent. PMID- 2516895 TI - Auditing occupational health services. PMID- 2516894 TI - Successful treatment of Legionella-associated haemolytic uraemic syndrome with acute renal failure and malignant hypertension by prostacyclin (epoprostenol). PMID- 2516896 TI - Cost effectiveness--a practical approach. PMID- 2516898 TI - Buphthalmos and progressive elephantiasis in neurofibromatosis. A report of three cases. AB - Two cases of buphthalmos and regional gigantism in peripheral neurofibromatosis (Von Recklinghausen disease) are described. The ocular hypertension was detected at birth and thereafter the facial hemihypertrophy, cafe-au-lait spots and neurofibromas. One case presented a progressive facial elephantiasis without buphthalmos. The evolution in neurofibromatous elephantiasis of these three cases is discussed. PMID- 2516897 TI - Urethral diverticula. AB - Urethral diverticula are more common than heretofore thought, and the suspicion must always be high in the clinician's mind. Specifically aided by urethroscopy, positive pressure urethrography, and urodynamics, the physician can determine the number of diverticula and their role in underlying continence mechanisms. This should lead to more objective surgical decisions with better results. PMID- 2516899 TI - [The diagnostic significance of peridurography in examining children with spinal deformities due to neurofibromatosis]. AB - Contrast peridurography which was performed in 12 patients with neurofibromatosis allowed to reveal the contours of the tumour in 2 patients, peridural block in 5 patients and uneven vertebral canal in 3 patients. Only in 2 patients the vertebral canal picture was normal. It points at high information value of peridurography in the examination of the patients with neurofibromatosis with deformations of the spinal column. PMID- 2516900 TI - Immunohistochemical localization of two types of carbonic anhydrase isozymes in oncocytoma and oncocytic epithelial cells. AB - An immunohistochemical study was performed on the localization of carbonic anhydrase isozymes I and II (CA I and CA II, respectively) in oncocytoma and oncocytic epithelial cells. Tumors examined were those deserved to be called oncocytomas such as Warthin's tumor, Hurthle cell tumor of the thyroid gland and renal oncocytoma. In addition, the same immunostaining was done on several pathologic lesions, accompanying moderate number of cells similar in tinctorial character to oncocytes, such as some type of adenoma of the thyroid gland, endometrial hyperplasia, endometriosis and so on. Specific antibodies against CA I and CA II prepared from human erythrocytes were converted into Fab' fragment and labeled with horseradish peroxidase. In each tissue sample, the majority of oncocytes or oncocytic epithelial cells showed a tendency to exhibit an immunostaining reaction for CA I and II intenser than that of adjacent original normal epithelium from which they might derive. To the authors' knowledge, no reports have been appeared on biological relevance of an increased activities of carbonic anhydrase in conjunction with a large number of mitochondria appearing in such oncocytic cells. In the present study, it is revealed that the immunoreactivities of CA isozymes increased in oncocytes as the number of mitochondria increased, suggesting that oncocytes have a high level of carbonic anhydrase for catalyzing the hydration of an increased amount of carbon dioxide generated chiefly via oxidative metabolism by mitochondria, the number of which is notably increased compensatorily for their deficient coupling of oxidative phosphorylation or other metabolic anomaly. PMID- 2516901 TI - Multiple forms of pituitary and placental gonadotrophins. PMID- 2516902 TI - Antiprogestational steroids: a new dimension in human fertility regulation. PMID- 2516904 TI - [Zinc and copper levels in the blood serum of infants with chronic nutrition disorders]. AB - Zinc and copper plasma levels were investigated in infants with chronic malnutrition. Using the method of atomic absorbing spectrophotometry microelements content was assessed in 82 infants with mild degree of malnutrition. Zinc and copper levels in infants with malnutrition were significantly lower in comparison with the level of this metals in eutrophic healthy infants of the control group. It was found that the decrease of plasma zinc and copper levels related to the increase of the level of malnutrition. Selected group of children with malnutrition had a similiary low plasma levels of investigated elements as had the children with malnutrition due to other causes. Low concentration of the total proteins was directly related to the low copper levels and to lesser extent to zinc level. PMID- 2516903 TI - [The possibility of intensifying endogenous nitrogen reutilization in protein starvation by the parental administration of small doses of methionine and threonine]. AB - Experiments conducted on albino Wistar male rats showed that endogenous nitrogen reutilization can be intensified by parenteral administration of regulatory amino acids methionine and threonine and their mixture in doses of 100-200 mg/kg in short-term protein deprivation. The data obtained may be used in clinical practice to reduce nitrogen excretion from the patient's organism with the patient deprived of food in the early postoperative period. PMID- 2516905 TI - Pathologic consequences of immunosuppressive therapy used in treating transplant rejection. PMID- 2516906 TI - [2 cases of drug-resistant pulmonary tuberculosis treated with ofloxacin]. AB - Two cases of chronic, cavernous pulmonary tuberculosis with bacilli resistant to several drugs are presented. Both patients were treated with a new antituberculous drug ofloxacin. The agent was used with other antituberculous drugs. Sputum negativization was seen in only one of the patients, while the in other only a decrease of dissemination was observed. PMID- 2516907 TI - [The epidemiological hazard of patients with active pulmonary tuberculosis and undetermined bacterial shedding]. AB - The degree of the epidemiological hazard of new cases of active pulmonary tuberculosis with unconfirmed isolation of tubercle bacilli and patients registered in groups I (without isolation of tubercle bacilli) and II of the dispensary observation was estimated in comparison to persons isolating tubercle bacilli. The hazard of the patients with active tuberculosis of the lungs and not confirmed isolation of tubercle bacilli for the members of their families and neighbours was shown to be 5-6 times lower than that of the patients isolating tubercle bacilli. However, it was 5-6 times higher than that for the population as a whole. It was proposed to perform primary epidemiological arrangements after registration of new cases of active pulmonary tuberculosis or persons with suspected pulmonary tuberculosis before verification of the diagnosis and availability of the results of bacteriological examinations. PMID- 2516909 TI - A nutritive control of independent ingestion in rat pups emerges by nine days of age. AB - The emergence of controls of independent ingestion in rat pups was studied using nutritive (0.6 M glucose in saline or water) and vehicle gastric preloads. Two hours after preloading, ingestive responses were assessed in a 30-minute test of feeding from the floor. In 6-day-olds, all preloads had similar effects on consumption of a milk diet. In 9-day-olds, however, glucose-water preloads inhibited intake compared to water preloads. This inhibition was secondary to an effect on gastric emptying. Glucose preloads also inhibited intake in 12- and 15 day-olds. Behavioral observations indicated that feeding patterns were altered in response to glucose preloads in 9-day-olds. These results provide evidence for the emergence of a nutritive, postgastric control of independent ingestion between 6 and 9 days of age. PMID- 2516908 TI - Effects of LHRH antagonist administration to immature male rats on sexual development. AB - Gonadotropin secretion in immature male rats was inhibited by administration of a potent LHRH antagonist (LHRH-A): from 6 to 15 days of age (early onset/short-term treatment), from 6 to 48 days of age (early onset/long-term treatment) or from 22 to 31 days of age (late onset/short-term treatment). Balano-preputial separation was retarded by 9 or 13 days (short-term treatments) or by about 40 days (long term treatment). Adult testicular weight was lowered and plasma FSH was increased after early, but not after late onset of LHRH-A treatment. Plasma LH and testosterone levels were not affected by any of the LHRH-A treatments. Fertility was diminished after early onset LHRH-A administration only. Adult precopulatory and copulatory behavior were severely affected after early onset of LHRH-A treatment. Intensity of precopulatory anogenital inspection was increased. The copulatory pattern was incomplete with absence of ejaculatory behavior during sexual behavior tests. Sexual behavior was not affected after late onset of LHRH A treatment. Thus, administration of LHRH-A to immature male rats delays balano preputial separation irrespective of the age of onset of LHRH-A treatment. In contrast, effects on adult FSH levels, testicular weight, fertility and sexual behavior depend on age and duration of LHRH-A administration. PMID- 2516910 TI - Enhancement of opioid-mediated analgesia by ingestion of amniotic fluid: onset latency and duration. AB - Ingestion of placenta and amniotic fluid has been shown to enhance opioid mediated analgesia produced by morphine injection, footshock, vaginal/cervical stimulation, and during late pregnancy in rats. The present study was designed to determine how soon after ingestion the enhancement begins and how long it lasts. Tail-flick latencies in Long-Evans rats were determined before and during vaginal/cervical stimulation; analgesia was measured as the percent increase in tail-flick latency during vaginal stimulation. After determination of baseline, rats were intubated with 0.25 ml of either amniotic fluid or beef bouillon. We found that analgesia enhancement was detectable as early as 5 minutes after ingestion of amniotic fluid, and the effect lasted at least 30 minutes, but no longer than 40 minutes. PMID- 2516911 TI - [Electrolyte disorders, EEG changes and epileptic seizures in alcohol withdrawal delirium]. AB - For 180 patients suffering alcohol-withdrawal induced delirium, electrolytic concentration in the serum of Na, K, Ca, and Mg was determined in the early withdrawal phase, and the electroencephalograms of 95 delirium patients evaluated in respect of local and diffuse changes and epileptic activity, and compared in delirium patients with and without initial seizures. Delirium patients who had initial seizures suffered significantly longer-lasting periods of delirium and significantly more frequent electrolytic changes in the form of hypomagnesemia and hypopotassemia (hypokalemia). There was no significant difference in the EEG changes. A temporary metabolic disorder in the initial phase of the two-phase withdrawal process should be assumed to be the cause of seizures during alcohol withdrawal, and the pathogenetic significance of hypomagnesemia and hypopotassemia should be taken into consideration. PMID- 2516913 TI - Headache: classification, mechanism and principles of therapy, with particular reference to migraine. AB - The sensation of pain derived from intracranial and extracranial blood vessels is conveyed to the central nervous system chiefly by the trigeminal nerve, with first order neurones terminating in the nucleus caudalis of the spinal trigeminal tract and an area lateral to the dorsal horn of the spinal cord at the second cervical segment. The evoked discharge of second order neurons can be suppressed by activation of the endogenous pain control system or, in about one third of cases, by the local application of ergot derivatives or the serotonin (5HT1) agonist sumatriptan (GR43175). Stimulation of brainstem structures such as locus ceruleus, raphe nuclei and the trigeminal system induce changes in the cerebral and extracranial circulations of the experimental animal that mimic those of migraine with aura (classical migraine). Clinical and laboratory observations have led to a neural hypothesis for migraine in which changes in hypothalamic function (an 'internal clock') and reactions to stress or excessive afferent stimuli are thought to initiate brainstem activity, causing secondary vascular changes and release of inhibition of the trigeminal pain pathways to cause headache. Painful distension of cranial blood vessels may contribute the throbbing component to migraine headache. Migraine is associated with a lowered level of platelet serotonin that is thought to reflect monoamine depletion in brainstem nuclei. Migraine headache can be precipitated by reserpine, which releases serotonin from body stores, and relieved by the intravenous infusion of serotonin. The new 5HT1 agonist sumatriptan promises to have the beneficial effects of serotonin without the side-effects that limited its clinical use.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2516912 TI - [A barbiturate derivative-induced depressive syndrome in a 9-year-old boy with complex focal seizures and secondary generalization--a case report]. AB - The mental side-effects of long-term anticonvulsant medication are still not widely enough known. The paper describes the case of a depressive syndrome induced in a nine-year-old boy, with complex localised attacks and secondary generalisation, which completely receded on treatment with Convulsofin. PMID- 2516914 TI - Dendritic cells as specialized antigen-presenting cells. PMID- 2516915 TI - Enteral and parenteral nutritional support in dogs and cats with gastrointestinal disease. PMID- 2516916 TI - [New drugs for tuberculosis: are they necessary in Brazil?]. PMID- 2516917 TI - [Xenodiagnosis, hemoculture and the complement mediated lysis test, as criteria in selecting chronic chagasic patients for chemotherapy]. AB - Normally specific treatment of chronic Chagas' disease begins only after a positive parasitological diagnosis has been established. Xenodiagnosis, hemoculture and complement mediated lysis were associated, and repeated, as an attempt to increase the number of selected candidates for specific treatment. Thirty six chronic chagasic patients were submitted to two series of the above tests, with a minimal interval of 60 days. In the first series of tests sensitivity of xenodiagnosis and hemoculture were 30.5% and 8.3% respectively. Processing of a second sample increased sensitivity to 36.1% (xenodiagnosis) and 19.4% (hemoculture); 47.2% were shown to be positive by at least one of these tests. From the positive cases, 29.4% were consistently negative in the complement mediated lysis test, and 17.6% exhibited discordant results, positive on one occasion and negative on the other. Among patients with negative parasitological tests, 47.4% had negative complement mediated lysis tests, 31.5% exhibited discordant results and 15.8% were positive. We conclude that complement mediated lysis test is not a method of choice in the selection of candidates for specific treatment of Chagas' disease in view of the observed variability of results. At this moment, parasitological test, in spite of a low sensitivity, are a safer tool for the clinician. PMID- 2516918 TI - [Experimental evolutive cycle of Diphyllobothrium erinaceieuropei in Paracyclops fimbriatus, tadpoles of Bufo arenarum and dogs]. AB - Experiments were performed in order to develop the life cycle of Diphyllobothrium erinaceieuropei Rudolphi 1819 (Cestoda, Pseudophyllidea) in Paracyclops fimbriatus and Bufo arenarum as intermediate hosts and dogs as definitive hosts. The eggs of Diphyllobothrium erinaceieuropei from faeces of naturally infected dogs were kept refrigered, in water. In order to obtain coracidiums they were incubated at 25 degrees C, and then were placed in a flask which contained Paracyclops fimbriatus. The copepods were observed to be infected with procercoids 12 days after, (mean temperature 22.6 degrees C) and then, ten tadpoles of Bufo arenarum were put into the same flask. The tadpoles were examined 22, 23, 61 and 107 days later, finding plerocercoids in all them (mean temperature 24.9 degrees C). On the 23rd day, 49 plerocercoids were removed from 6 tadpoles and 28 of them were fed to a bitch. On the 107th day, 11 plerocercoids were recovered from a dead tadpole and 3 of them were fed to another bitch. In the faeces of the first bitch there were observed the eggs of Diphyllobothrium erinaceieuropei 22 days post infection (d.p.i.) and part of the strobila 30 d.p.i.. In the faeces of the second bitch the eggs were found 30 d.p.i.. PMID- 2516919 TI - [Correlation between hemorheological and blood gas analytical indices in hypoxic hypercapnic respiratory insufficiency]. PMID- 2516921 TI - Indian nutritionists and international nutritional standards: concepts and controversies. AB - This paper explores how Indian nutritional scientists and policy planners have influenced the formulation and interpretation of standards of nutritional status. It draws on diverse published evidence by Indian scientists on three controversial issues: (1) the validity and applicability of international nutritional standards to India; (2) the so-called protein gap; and (3) the 'small but healthy' hypothesis. The paper concludes that Indian scientists have had considerable influence in international nutrition and food policy debates. Moreover, their positions seem to have been motivated more by nationalistic and scientific, rather than Indian ethnomedical cultural concerns. The paper provides one example of how Third World scientists and science have influenced a major area of scientific policy debate. The roles of cultural and political-economic factors in the construction of national and international nutritional standards are highlighted. PMID- 2516920 TI - Studies on drug utilization: bilateral case study in Poland and Sweden. AB - The utilization of drugs in Poland and Sweden was compared by two means: the defined daily doses (DDD) and the price-adjusted sales figures (PASF). Obtained results imply that the total pharmaceutical consumption in the countries under study is almost equal: in Poland-US $114.47 and in Sweden-US $109.77 per inhabitant. However, in particular groups and subgroups of drugs, significant differences in prescribing exist (Tables 1 and 2). Awareness of these may help doctors to improve their prescribing of drugs, and may prompt further studies on drug utilization where irrational use of drugs is not evident but suspected. PMID- 2516922 TI - Purification and characterization of Aeromonas hydrophila beta-hemolysin. AB - Aeromonas hydrophila hemolysin was excreted in our culture conditions during the stationary growth phase. The toxin was purified to homogeneity by a three-step method: ultrafiltration, acid precipitation in the presence of RNA and anion exchange chromatography with FPLC apparatus. Beta-hemolysin is a protein not associated with lipids, carbohydrates or nucleic acids whose subunit mol. wt is 51,000. The mol. wt determined by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis suggests that the molecule is in a trimeric form. The toxin is thermolabile and inactivated by proteolytic enzymes such as trypsin, chymotrypsin, pronase, subtilisin and proteinase K. Antibodies raised against the beta-hemolysin neutralize both hemolytic and cytotoxic activities. When injected at high dose, this purified hemolytic protein causes a positive rabbit ileal loop test, thus indicating that beta-hemolysin could be the main virulence factor involved in intestinal symptoms. PMID- 2516924 TI - [Ways of improving the system of vaccine prevention of tick-borne encephalitis]. PMID- 2516923 TI - A new procedure for the analysis and purification of naturally occurring anatoxin a from the blue-green alga Anabaena flos-aquae. AB - Anabaena flos-aquae produces at least two neurotoxins termed anatoxin-a (ANTX-a) and -a(s) [ANTX-a(s)]. ANTX-a is a potent postsynaptic depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent. Its structure is the secondary amine, 2-acetyl-9 azabicyclo[4.2.1]non-2-ene. Known isolation and analysis methods have not always given satisfactory results. Therefore, an improved procedure was developed for both isolation and analysis of ANTX-a which involves four steps; extraction, clean-up, separation and determination. Extraction was efficiently done with 0.05 M acetic acid, and a reversed phase. ODS (octadecylsilanized) and a cation exchanger (COOH) organosilans bonded to silica gels were applied to a clean-up step. Separation and determination were then performed using two TLC and HPLC chromatographies. PMID- 2516926 TI - [Prospects for developing a live vaccine against tick-borne encephalitis]. PMID- 2516925 TI - [Preparations for express and retrospective diagnosis of tick-borne encephalitis]. PMID- 2516927 TI - Studies on activation and levels of haemolytic complement of buffalo (Bubalus bubalis). 1. Classical complement pathway. AB - Optimum conditions for haemolytic complement (HC) assay in buffalo serum were standardized. In all, 11 indicator systems of red blood cells (RBC) and haemolysins were investigated. Maximum HC CH50 titre was obtained with rabbit RBC sensitized with goat haemolysin. The effect of pH, Ca2+ and Mg2+ concentration, ionic strength, time and temperature were studied. Of all the variables, ionic strength influenced the HC activity most significantly. The standard system for titrating the HC consisted of rabbit RBC sensitized with goat haemolysin, sucrose veronal buffer with pH 7.5, ionic strength 0.023 M and Ca2+ and Mg2+ concentrations 6 x 10(-4) and 2 x 10(-3) M, respectively. Incubation at 37 degrees C for 2 h gave highest haemolytic activity. With this protocol 5-7-fold higher HC activity was recorded than with prestandardized conditions. Levels of HC were determined in the sera of 98 buffaloes aged from 1 month to 12 years. The lowest mean CH50 units of 401 +/- 0.35 per ml were recorded in buffalo calves below 3 months of age. The mean HC levels increased with age, reaching peak values of 2349 +/- 62.25 CH50 units/ml in 2-3-year-old buffalo. Animals in the age group 5-12 years had significantly decreased (P less than 0.05) mean HC levels of 1545 +/- 68.94. PMID- 2516928 TI - Cytoplasmic free calcium concentration in dark-adapted retinal rod outer segments. AB - We measured the cytoplasmic free Ca concentration in the outer segment of intact, dark-adapted rods of the toad retina. The Ca indicator dye, Quin2, was loaded at concentrations of 0.273 +/- 0.06 mM into the rod cytoplasm by incubation of isolated retinas in the hydrophobic ester, Quin2AM. Quin2 did not alter the cytoplasmic Ca concentration in the dark, but it buffered light-dependent concentration transients and, hence, modified the rod photoresponse. In the presence of 1 mM external Ca, the cytoplasmic Ca concentration in the dark was 273 +/- 129 nM. PMID- 2516930 TI - [The effect of thiol compounds and iron on formation of nitric oxide from nitroprusside and nitroglycerin]. AB - Some thiol-containing substances 5-Na-thiosulfate, cysteine, reduced glutathione and reducing agent Na-dethionite were shown to elevate formation of nitric oxide from both Na-nitroprusside and nitroglycerol in water solutions, especially if Fe2+ was added into solution of nitroglycerol. Nitric oxide developed was maintained in solutions in the complexes containing water soluble dinitrosyl iron and thiol derivatives. Release of nitric oxide from nitroprusside and nitroglycerol in animals was caused by similar reactions. At the same time, nitric oxide, derived from nitroprusside, was involved in complexes containing dinitrosyl iron and a protein with double thiol group, whereas nitric oxide, obtained from nitroglycerol, was bound with hemoglobin, producing Hb-nitrosyl complexes. PMID- 2516929 TI - [Biochemical diagnosis of mucosulfatidosis]. AB - Biochemical anomalies in proband involved alterations in the spectrum of glycosaminoglycans (GAG) excreted with urine as well as a decrease in activity of lysosomal sulfatases (arylsulfatases A and B, heparan-N-sulfatase) in homogenates of leukocytes and cultivated fibroblasts. In healthy parents of the proband activity of the sulfatases was lower than in control donors but higher as compared with the proband. Antenatal diagnostics of mucosulfatidosis was carried out in fetus during the repeated pregnancy. The following biochemical anomalies were noted: alteration in the GAG spectrum in amniotic fluid, decrease in activity of lysosomal sulfatases in cultivated cells of the amniotic fluid. The pregnancy lead to a premature birth at 31st week of a girl. No alterations were observed in the spectrum of GAG's excreted with urine and in intracellular accumulation of 35S-GAG in the newborn child. Measurement of sulfatases activity in leukocytes enabled to identify conclusively that the child was a heterozygotic bearer mucosulfatidosis. PMID- 2516931 TI - [Value of sustonit in the treatment of patients with stable angina pectoris]. AB - The clinical trial was carried out in 40 men with stable angina receiving for three weeks Sustonit mite or forte. Before and after three weeks of the treatment the exercise test was done on cycle ergometer, followed by echocardiography (for evaluation of left ventricular function) noting also the number of anginal pains and the number of nitroglycerin tablets taken as emergency treatment. In the light of the obtained results it was estimated that Sustonit reduced anginal pains in 82.5% of the patients with stable angina, and exerted a beneficial effect on the left ventricular function as evidenced by increased mean velocity of shortening of the circumferential fibres and reduced number of echocardiograms with segmental contractility disturbances in the ventricular septum and posterior wall of the left ventricle after 3 weeks of treatment. Moreover, Sustoinit treatment increased significantly the amount of work done until reaching of submaximal heart rate and working time during submaximal exercise, as well as the greatest workload necessary for reaching of submaximal heart rate. The drug had no significant effect on the heart and arterial blood pressure. Sustonit mite and forte is regarded as highly valuable and effective drug in the treatment of patients with stable angina. PMID- 2516932 TI - [Tissue-type plasminogen activator and pro-urokinase--new fibrinolytic agents in the treatment of myocardial infarction]. AB - In the light of a survey of the pertinent literature the results of tissue plasminogen activator and pro-urokinase++ use in the thrombolytic treatment of acute myocardial infarction are discussed. PMID- 2516933 TI - [Giant diverticulum of the urethra]. AB - A case is described of a giant acquired diverticulum of the anterior portion of the urethra. The cause was stricture of the penile part of the urethra. With time a large number of calculi developed in the diverticulum. The method of surgical treatment and the postoperative course are described calling attention to the importance of postoperative management of such cases. PMID- 2516936 TI - [The relation of B- and non-A, non-B hepatitis virus--hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA hybridization studies of the sera in non-A, non-B hepatitis]. AB - Referring to informations of various international groups of investigators who regard the NANBH as HBV-variant the sera of 77 female patients with chronic NANBH and 28 acute phase sera of a NANBH serum bank were tested for HBV-DNA. The sera in question were such ones of a particularly well defined group of patients with unique parenteral source of infections. Though further ALAT attacks were observed, in none of the NANBH-sera HBV-DNA was proved as a sign of an active HBV replication. This, like the absence of an immunity against the NANBH-virus after HBV-disease and the observed suppression of the HBV-DNA in NANBH-superinfection of HBV-carriers (virus interference), speaks against the hypothesis of a close genetic relationship between the two viruses. PMID- 2516935 TI - [Possibilities for imaging intracardiac thrombi with indium 111 thrombocyte scintigraphy]. AB - Intracardiac thrombi can be localized and quantified by indium-111-labelling of thrombocytes with a high sensitivity and specificity. The scintigraphic procedure has a complementary evidence to echocardiography. Scintigraphy shows activity and age of thrombosis, whereas echocardiography seems to be superior in determination of mass and localization. In older thrombi scintigraphy fails because of organisation and endothelialization of the thrombus surface. For the reason of determination of the age of an intraventricular thrombus this method might have an increasing acceptance. PMID- 2516934 TI - Regulation of growth hormone-releasing hormone gene expression and biosynthesis. AB - Growth hormone-releasing hormone (GRH) was initially isolated, characterized, sequenced, and cloned from human tumors and subsequently from the hypothalamus of humans and other animal species. Extensive structure-function studies have indicated the amino terminus to be most important for its biologic action, and the primary mechanism of its bioinactivation occurs by cleavage of an amino terminal dipeptide. The GRH gene is expressed primarily in the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus but also in the placenta. Expression of the GRH gene is regulated by growth hormone in a classical feedback manner, with hypophysectomy leading to increased expression that is reversed by growth hormone treatment. GRH gene overexpression in transgenic mice leads to a syndrome similar to that of ectopic GRH secretion with massive pituitary hyperplasia and markedly enhanced growth. The transgenic mouse has been used for studies of GRH biosynthesis and provides a suitable model for the study of precursor processing to the mature hormone. PMID- 2516937 TI - [Study of risk factors in complicated forms of ischemic heart disease in evaluating the prognosis and course of the disease (conservative and surgical treatment]. AB - Risk factors, survival rate, and quality of life of non-operated and operated patients with complicated IHD (over 50% diameter narrowing of the LCA trunk, occlusion of 3-4 coronary arteries, left ventricular aneurysm and rhythm disturbances) have been studied. The disease course and prognosis are influenced by a number of risk factors. For the non-operated patients, these are the magnitude of narrowing and the number of occluded coronary arteries, the occlusion level, involvement of great coronary arteries, the dimensions of the cicatrical zone, reduced myocardial contractility, left ventricular end diastolic pressure of more than 20 mm Hg, patient's age, and rhythm disturbances revealed on standard resting ECG. The postoperative survival rate and quality of life are significantly improved as compared to the conservatively treated group. The major risk factor is incomplete postoperative myocardial revascularisation, and combined high-grade extrasystole with supraventricular arrhythmias. PMID- 2516938 TI - [Late results following shaft fractures of the lower extremities in the growth period]. AB - In a retrospective study 275 femoral-shaft fractures and 652 tibial respectively fibular fractures of the growing skeleton were evaluated. A posttraumatic limb length difference was present in 70% after femoral fractures and in 40% following fractures of the lower leg. In the control group of 822 examined persons we found an idiopathic difference of the length of the limb in 25%. Following femoral fractures the limb length difference was in average 10 mm. However following fractures of the tibia and fibula it was 7 mm. There is no evidence that an established difference in length will improve in course of growth. Factors influencing the alteration of length are discussed. It could be shown that there is no primary therapeutic way of influencing the alteration of length and that the so called prophylactic "shortening" at time of consolidation cannot prevent future lengthening. Also we could prove that rotational deformities of the femur show a good prognosis regarding spontaneous correction. Deformities of the lower leg however do not show spontaneous correction and ought to be corrected primarily. The incidence and degree of future alteration of length of the lower limb can only be influenced indirectly by early definite stabilisation of the fracture without leaving an axial deformity behind. For stable non-dislocated fractures the plaster of cast treatment is sufficient. However for unstable, dislocated (displaced) fractures which need anaesthesia for primary treatment, the unilateral external fixator is proposed as the method of treatment. Functional follow up examinations to evaluate possible posttraumatic alteration of the length of the lower limb, have to be performed at least for two years after the accident. PMID- 2516939 TI - [Shaft fractures in infancy]. AB - Shaft fractures in young children have certain characteristics that are related to the type of accident and bony structure of this age group, the rapid healing process, and the long subsequent growth period. 1. Due to the high incidence of falls, green-stick, compression, and torsion fractures predominate. 2. Reduction and immobilization can nearly always be achieved by conservative treatment or simple osteosynthetic procedures. 3. The intensive remodelling process makes precise reduction unnecessary. Tolerance is greatest for side-to-side displacement and least for rotational deformities, especially in the forearm and leg. 4. The most common consequence of fracture healing is overgrowth of the fractured extremity, the intensity of which increases in proportion to the degree of spacing in the fracture area. 5. Complications are uncommon and are due mainly to overlooked rotational deformities, repeated manipulations, erroneous indications, or inappropriate internal fixation. 6. Anticipation of further growth is never an acceptable excuse for leaving an improperly aligned fracture to be "outgrown". 7. When certain basic precepts peculiar to this age group are observed, the treatment of shaft fractures in young children nevertheless carries a favorable prognosis. PMID- 2516940 TI - [Treatment of femoral and lower leg shaft fractures in adolescents]. AB - In adolescents dynamic-compression-plate osteosynthesis is an excellent modality for treating femoral shaft fractures. It provides anatomical stabilisation as well as short hospitalisation and rehabilitation. In contrast, fractures of the tibial shaft are usually treated with casts or by extension. Primary operation is rarely necessary, for example in cases of an impaired neurovascular system. In third degree open fractures we usually recommend external fixation. In our department clinical and radiological late-term controls are performed over a period of at least two years for tibial and four years for femoral shaft fractures. PMID- 2516941 TI - [Comparison of surgical and conservative treatment methods as exemplified in the juvenile femur]. AB - In a series of 329 children treated for fractures of the femur between 1968 and 1982 a comparison was made between the results of mere extension treatment against operative compression plate treatment. The follow-up shows that conservative methods suffer from high rate of axial deviation, particularly antecurvature, while operative treatment has the negative effect of a higher, incidence of persistent leg lengthening and of re-fracture. The advantages of operative management, namely precise positioning of fracture, low damage to soft tissue and - above all - unimpaired motility of the young patient justify its preferred use in the treatment of femur fractures in children - except for long oblique fractures. PMID- 2516942 TI - [Plate osteosynthesis in femoral shaft fractures]. AB - Between 1979 and 1988, 119 children with 123 femur shaft fractures were treated in the Department of Traumatology of the university-hospital of Freiburg. Traffic accidents were the reason in half of the cases. 19 children had multiple trauma and serious cranio-cervical traumata. In the case of 14 further children, additional limb fractures could be diagnosed, four of which were contralateral femur shaft fractures. More than half of the children with femur shaft fractures were treated by internal fixation. Only internal fixation by plate was employed. 32 children were operated upon at the day of the accident (49%). Children with solitary injuries could be treated as outpatients after 13 days. The implanted material could be removed after an average of 8.4 months. At the moment a reexamination of 31 operated cases (altogether 65 children with 69 fractures are operated) is performed. 30 children have excellent (18 patients) or good (12 patients) results. The healing process was complicated by delayed healing of the fracture (1 patient), plate fracture after 2 months (1 patient) and subcutaneous haematoma (2 patients). Osteitis did not occur. PMID- 2516943 TI - [Stable elastic nailing]. AB - The authors illustrate an original method of osteosynthesis concerning shaft fractures in children: Stable Elastic Nailing. They elaborate the physiopathological basis and specify all details of this technique. The results of this treatment as well as its limits are considered through personal experience of 217 femurs, 42 tibias, 36 humerus, 84 fore-arms and 96 supracondylar fractures of the humerus. We essentially proceeded for a comparative analysis with other methods of osteosynthesis or conservative treatment, illustrating the net superiority of stable elastic nailing in their indications according to the recommended technique. PMID- 2516944 TI - [Shaft fractures in childhood. Insurance problems from the viewpoint of liability]. AB - Childhood accidents of any kind do not present any particular problems to Swiss third party liability insurers. However, such claims call for an active handling by the claims adjusters as well as intense contacts between claims adjuster, responsible physician, and parents in order to prevent any long term complications. PMID- 2516945 TI - [The treatment of dislocated supracondylar humerus fractures in childhood]. AB - 33 children with displaced SFH were all treated operatively by open reduction and internal fixation or closed reduction and percutaneous pinning. A follow-up study was performed on average 29 (range 3-63) months after the injury. In 18% of the cases an initial injury of the neurovascular structures was observed and documented during the operation. 32 times open reduction and internal fixation by K-wires was performed, only once, closed reduction and percutaneous pinning was attempted. In the presence of a preoperative neurologic deficit, the nerves were always visualised, never, however, a nerve suture was necessary. In one case we had to reconstruct both the arteria brachialis and radialis because of intima lesions with total obstruction of the vessels. The average time of hospitalization was 9 days, which includes the time for removal of the pins, which was usually performed about 4,5 weeks later simultaneously with the removal of plaster. Using Innocenti's criteria, 27 of 30 reviewed patients had an excellent result, 3 had a good result. Early complications due to the operation such as wound healing problems, infection or nerve lesions did not occur. 3 patients could not be reached any more. We recommend for the management of the displaced SFH open reduction and internal fixation by K-wires as the method of choice. Percutaneous pinning is a valid alternative when closed reduction succeeds easily at the first attempt. PMID- 2516946 TI - [The treatment of plastic deformities of the long tubular bones]. AB - This paper presents a special reaction of long tubular bone to a singular compression or bending stress. The characteristics of this special type of reaction to injury are exposed on the basis of bibliographical data and experiences in 12 own patients. Traumatic bowing in the forearm and shank leads to loss of function respectively to delayed union. Up to the age for ten years spontaneous correction by further growth is possible. Beyond this age treatment consists in sensitive correction in general anesthesia and plaster fixation. PMID- 2516947 TI - [The epidemiological characteristics of meningococcal infection in the USSR]. AB - The epidemiological analysis of morbidity in meningococcal infection in the USSR in the period of 1969-1987 showed that the second rise of the morbidity level occurred in 1984 and was followed by its decrease in most of the regions of the USSR. This study also revealed that the characteristic feature of the second rise of morbidity in meningococcal infection was a considerable involvement of young children (aged up to 3 years), as well as the increased etiological role of group B meningococci in cases of meningococcal infection and the circulation of these microorganisms among the population. Besides, the preservation of the etiological importance of group A meningococci in many regions of the USSR, especially among adults, was noted. In this connection, the use of Soviet group A meningococcal polysaccharide vaccine on epidemiological indications was considered to be epidemiologically substantiated. PMID- 2516948 TI - [The antigenic and immunogenic substances in mycobacteria and the problem of creating a molecular vaccine]. PMID- 2516950 TI - Hemopoiesis and immune mechanisms. PMID- 2516952 TI - The role of intracellular pH and Ca++ on arachidonic acid metabolism in human platelets. AB - High concentrations of ionomycin induced arachidonic acid metabolism, while its magnitude appeared to be poorly correlated with the increase in intracellular Ca++ induced by ionomycin. Intracellular pH elevation had no direct effect on arachidonic acid release. On the other hand, the elevation in intracellular pH potentiated arachidonic acid release induced by low concentrations of ionomycin, and appeared to increase the sensitivity to Ca++ of the arachidonic acid releasing mechanism. pHi fixed at low values suppressed the formation of the product of the cyclooxygenase pathway more severely than that of 12-lipoxygenase in platelet activation induced by receptor-mediated agonists. Inhibition of the Na+/H+ exchanger, which participates in intracellular pH elevation, reduced the production of arachidonic acid metabolites, with a more profound effect on the product of the cyclooxygenase pathway. The findings suggest that intracellular Ca++ and pH act synergistically to activate the arachidonic acid releasing mechanism in platelets, and that pH also regulates the activity of the cyclooxygenase pathway. PMID- 2516951 TI - The signal transduction systems and intracellular Ca2+ dynamics in arachidonate induced platelet activation. AB - Types II and III protein kinase C were expressed in human platelets and showed slightly different modes of activation and kinetic properties. Type III isozyme was more sensitive than type II for the activation of each isozyme with arachidonate (AA) although both isozymes were activated by diacylglycerol and phosphatidylserine in a similar manner. When human platelets were stimulated by AA, two types of platelet activation, a low level of AA (0.1-2.5 micrograms/ml)- and a high level of AA (10-50 micrograms/ml)-induced activations, were observed. These activations were associated with the phosphorylation of 40K and 20K proteins. Although a low level of AA (0.45-10.0 micrograms/ml) induced the formation of [32P] phosphatidate in intact platelets prelabeled with [32P] Pi, AA at high concentrations (20-50 micrograms/ml) did not stimulate phospholipase C. The incubation of fura 2 loaded platelets with a low level of AA evoked a rapid and transient elevation in [Ca2+] i. In contrast, a high level of AA induced an irreversible increase in [Ca2+] i but this [Ca2+] i elevation alone was not associated with platelet activation. These results suggest that the signal transduction system by a high level of AA on human platelets is different from that seen with a low level of AA. A high level of AA induces platelet activation, without phospholipase C stimulation, and therefore, the ability of AA to directly activate protein kinase C (pre-dominantly type III isozyme) may contribute toward the activation of platelets by a high level of AA. PMID- 2516949 TI - Pathogenesis and management of acute pulmonary embolism. AB - Pulmonary embolism can produce severe cardiopulmonary dysfunction characterized by pulmonary artery hypertension, right ventricular failure, and hypoxemia. The search for the source of a pulmonary embolus, by exploration of the veins of the lower limbs and the inferior vena cava should be systematically carried out in all cases of pulmonary embolus which are not immediately life-threatening to the patient. The treatment of deep vein thrombosis associated with pulmonary embolism with thrombolytic agents has been proposed and utilized for approximately 20 years. Although superior results have been claimed with thrombolytic agents, the use of this type of treatment remains limited to massive or sub-massive pulmonary embolism. Fibrinolytic agents with high specificity for fibrin in the thrombi and little systemic activation of the fibrinolytic system have been developed and tested in preliminary clinical trials of patients with acute pulmonary embolism. The largest published experience available has been with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rtPA). The acylated streptokinase-plasminogen complex (APSAC) and pro-urokinase also gave promising results. All these agents were accompanied by unexpectedly high incidence of systemic activation of the fibrinolytic system and by hemorrhagic complications with frequencies similar to those that follows the use of first generation products (urokinase and streptokinase). Hence, their superior clinical efficacy must be clearly proven before they are substituted for a more widely available and less expensive drug, such as streptokinase. PMID- 2516953 TI - Characterization of platelet cytoplasmic Ca2+ mobilization in patients with congenital cyclo-oxygenase deficiency and with defective platelet aggregation to A23187. AB - Agonist-induced platelet cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentrations ([Ca2+]i) in patients with congenital cyclo-oxygenase deficiency (A) and with impaired aggregation to A23187 (B) were measured with aequorin in the presence or absence of extracellular Ca2+. The influence of TMB-8 or ONO3708 on agonist-induced [Ca2+]i in those platelets was also investigated. In Patient 1, there was a single aequorin luminescence peak in response to arachidonate, which was a thromboxane A2(TXA2) independent Ca2+ influx. The luminescence peak due to the formation of TXA2 was not detectable. The A23187-induced [Ca2+] i was decreased in the presence of extracellular Ca2+, but was within normal limits in the absence of extracellular Ca2+. A thrombin or STA2-induced elevation of [Ca2+] i was always within normal limits under any conditions. These results suggest that cyclo oxygenase activity (CO activity) contributes to the A23187-induced Ca2+ influx, but does not contribute to the Ca2+ release from intracellular stores, and that the thrombin or STA2-induced Ca2+ influx and release do not depend on the CO activity. In Patient 2, the time lag from the addition of A23187 to the aequorin luminescence peak was found both in the presence and absence of extracellular Ca2+, which was more obvious in the latter. This A23187-induced elevation of [Ca2+] i disappeared after treatment of the platelets with TMB-8 in the absence of extracellular Ca2+, which is rarely seen in normal platelets. The most striking finding was that the thrombin-induced rise in [Ca2+] i in the absence of extracellular Ca2+ was not detectable. These findings might be closely related to abnormal platelet function in this patient. PMID- 2516954 TI - [Clinical aspects of treatment and preventive treatment with thrombocyte aggregation inhibitors in cerebrovascular diseases]. AB - Inhibitors of thrombocyte aggregation are generally accepted in the therapy and prophylaxis of ischemic cerebrovascular disease. The frequency of re-infarction, morbidity and mortality after TIA, PRIND and minor stroke is influenced favourably. There are controversial opinions, however, about the usefulness for patients suffering from completed strokes. In patients with progressive stroke, cerebral embolism of cardiac source, or non-infective thrombosis of sinuses or cerebral veins, inhibitors of thrombocyte aggregation are used if anticoagulation therapy is not possible. Additionally, they are applied in cases of infective thrombosis of sinuses or cerebral veins, after termination of anticoagulation therapy, after cardiac valve replacement, and after surgical reconstructions of craniocervical vessels. Acetylsalicylic acid is the clinically best examined substance; its effect--especially in males--was proven by numerous prospective trials. A combined treatment with dipyridamole, sulfinpyrazone or other drugs seems to be unnecessary. A daily dose of not more than 300 to 325 mg acetylsalicylic acid is recommended for prophylaxis after ischemic cerebral events; in connection with that dose severe gastrointestinal side effects are hardly to be expected. Whether even lower doses would yield the same prophylactic effects will have to be clarified by further studies. PMID- 2516955 TI - [Imaging of intra-cardiac thrombi with indium 111 scintigraphy]. AB - Intracardiac thrombi can be localized and quantified by Indium-111-labelling of thrombocytes with a high sensitivity and specificity. The scintigraphic procedure has a complementary evidence to echocardiography. Scintigraphy shows activity and age of thrombosis, whereas echocardiography seems to be superior in determination of mass and localization. In older thrombi scintigraphy fails because of organisation and endothelialization of the thrombus surface. For the reason of determination of the age of an intraventricular thrombus this method might have an increasing acceptance. PMID- 2516956 TI - [Degenerative dementias. A joint meeting of the Belgian Neurological Society and the Belgian Society for Mental Medicine. 11 March 1989. Proceedings]. PMID- 2516957 TI - [The definition of degenerative dementias according to the international system of classification]. PMID- 2516958 TI - Alzheimer's disease: biological diagnosis. AB - The authors discussed the possible clinical chemical diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease in function of the well established biochemical changes in different neurotransmitter systems. PMID- 2516959 TI - [The diagnosis of degenerative dementia: neuropsychological studies]. PMID- 2516960 TI - [The diagnosis of dementia: current neurophysiological studies and brain mapping]. PMID- 2516961 TI - Positron emission tomography in degenerative dementias. AB - Positron emission tomography demonstrates different abnormalities of cerebral metabolism or characteristic disturbances of neurotransmission systems in "cortical" and "subcortical" dementias. Those patterns may reflect the underlying anatomopathology, but may also give clues to the pathophysiology of a disease and its symptoms. PMID- 2516962 TI - [The contribution of computerized tomography and MRI in the diagnosis of degenerative dementia]. AB - CT and MRI are presently the most commonly used imaging techniques providing optimal visualisation of brain images. Normal aging is observed on CT and especially on MRI: these changes should be recognized and differentiated from pathological brain anomalies. The authors briefly describe changes demonstrated by CT and MRI in the most commonly encountered dementia: still emphasis is put on the fact that these anomalies are poorly specific and never pathognomonic. On the contrary, it must be prompted to perform CT and MRI in demented patients in order to rule out diseases curable by surgery such as normal pressure hydrocephaly, subdural hematoma, meningioma and so on especially well demonstrated by CT and MRI. PMID- 2516963 TI - Contribution of stereotactic brain biopsies to the diagnosis in several cases of dementia. AB - Early detection and precise diagnosis of dementias are important since they determine subsequent medical care. Presently the only way to classify these syndromes is by neuropathological examination. Between 1972 and 1988, 246 stereotactic serial brain biopsies were performed in 28 selected demented patients. Comparison between preoperative clinical diagnosis and histological finding gives the following results: the diagnosis has been confirmed in 32%, corrected or specified in 67% and stereotactic brain biopsies only showed unspecific pathological gliosis in 8%. This emphasizes the difficulties to assess precisely the diagnosis. This must be kept in mind when evaluating drug trials. PMID- 2516964 TI - [Paul Divry. The discovery of cerebral amyloidosis]. PMID- 2516965 TI - [Cerebral morphological changes in degenerative dementia]. PMID- 2516966 TI - [Therapeutic management and care in psychiatric institutions]. PMID- 2516967 TI - [Therapeutic management and care in the family milieu]. PMID- 2516968 TI - [Degenerative dementias: historical foundations]. PMID- 2516969 TI - Specificity of visual evoked potentials alterations in Alzheimer's disease: comparison with normal aging, depression and scopolamine administration in young healthy volunteers. PMID- 2516970 TI - [Hydrocephalic and/or degenerative dementia]. AB - The authors report ten cases of progressive dementia. Nine are associated with gait disturbances and seven with urinary incontinence. Despite the severity of dementia and Ct Scan signs of cortical atrophy, magnitude of neuroradiological ventricular dilatation and ventricular reflux at isotopic cisternography lead to shunt therapy. After ventricular shunting of CSF, a follow-up at short and long terms shows different clinical evolutions: two transitory improvements, three cases without change and five worsening. Retrospective clinical study of these cases in which diagnosis leads to a degenerative process of the Alzheimer type shows atypical premorbid neuropsychological characteristics by a normal-pressure hydrocephalus. In fact, in the ten cases preoperative neuropsychological investigation shows, at various levels, aphasic, alexic and agraphic signs. Their occurrence in the clinical picture represents an essential contribution to differential diagnosis. PMID- 2516971 TI - [Assessment of memory disorders in the daily life of Alzheimer patients]. PMID- 2516972 TI - [Alzheimer's disease: imaging with NMR]. PMID- 2516974 TI - [Cortical and subcortical dementia. The value of long auditory evoked potentials]. AB - Long latency auditory evoked potentials were studied in 27 normal subjects, 19 patients with Alzheimer's Disease (A.D.) and 70 patients with Parkinson's Disease (P.D.). 17 patients with P.D. showed cognitive impairment measured by the "test rapide d'evaluation des fonctions cognitives - E.R.F.C.". The N2 and P3 peak latencies were prolonged in the demented group of P.D. compared to the non demented group P.D.. Between the electrophysiological parameters only the N1 latency prolongation distinguished the demented parkinsonian patients from the patients with A.D.. PMID- 2516973 TI - [Is leuko-araiosis in Alzheimer's disease, in Parkinson's disease and in healthy elderly persons the result of Wallerian degeneration?]. PMID- 2516975 TI - [The value of cognitive evoked potentials in the diagnosis of senile dementia and dementia of Parkinson disease]. AB - P300 latency is often delayed in dementia but some authors have questioned its interest in clinical practice, because of the relatively low specificity and sensibility of the method. Therefore, we studied numerous parameters (latency, duration, amplitude and surface) of N100, N200 and P300 waves in patients with senile dementia, patients suffering from Parkinson's disease with dementia and non demented elderly patients. Using discriminant analysis, more than 90% of the patients were correctly classified. This method could thus be contributive in clinical practice. PMID- 2516976 TI - [Pathology of the cytoskeleton in degenerative dementias]. PMID- 2516977 TI - [Alzheimer's disease: tau microtubular protein and beta protein A4 constitute 2 different types of amyloid substance]. PMID- 2516978 TI - Dystrophic neuropeptidergic neurites in senile plaques of Alzheimer's disease precede formation of paired helical filaments. AB - The relationship between peptidergic neurites and paired helical filaments (PHF) positive neurites in Alzheimer's disease (AD) senile plaques (SP) was studied using combined fluorescence and bright field optics. Cryostat sections of AD hippocampi were first stained by thioflavine-S and immunolabeled with antisera raised against different neuropeptides: somatostatin 28(1-12) (som 28(1-12)), somatostatin 14 (som 14), neuropeptide Y (NPY), cholecystokinin (CCK) and substance P (sP). Secondly, using the elution-restaining procedure, sections were immunolabeled with anti-tau/PHF. In immature SP, clusters of abnormal, swollen neurites were found. The dystrophic, strongly peptidic-positive neurites contained less PHF than the poorly positive ones. Cell bodies, exhibiting a peptidic content, could be found within SP without any alteration. These results suggest the following sequence of events: an extracellular poisoning mechanism, perhaps the amyloid substance, first changes the structure of presynaptic endings and causes the formation of ballooning dystrophic neurites filled with their normal peptidic content. Subsequently, intracellular degradation occurs with formation of the PHF. Then the other structures such as dendrites and perikarya are damaged by the same mechanism. Therefore this phenomenon seems to precede any formation of PHF in SP. PMID- 2516979 TI - [Cerebellar amyloid plaques in Alzheimer's disease]. AB - In a consecutive series of 30 brains of demented patients (presenile, senile and familial types) with the histological hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease, cerebellar amyloid plaques and cerebellar amyloid angiopathy were observed in 80% of the cases. These cerebellar amyloid plaques were sometimes centered on a small amyloidotic blood vessel. They were immunostained with A4 antiserum, but they were not surrounded by a crown of swollen neurites as demonstrated with silver impregnation and Tau antiserum. They were not immunostained with SAF antiserum which decorated the cerebellar Kuru-like plaques observed in subacute transmissible spongiform encephalopathies such as Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease and Gerstmann-Straussler-Scheinker syndrome. The absence of neuritic changes around the numerous cerebellar amyloid plaques frequently observed in cases of Alzheimer's disease is an interesting feature and will perhaps explain the mechanism of cytoskeleton changes occurring in the neurons of the cerebral cortex. PMID- 2516980 TI - [Experimental approach to manifestations of senile dementia]. AB - Similar alterations in the neuronal cytoskeleton (paired helical filaments) and modifications in the molecular forms of acetylcholinesterase (specific decrease in the G4 form) have been detected in the elderly rat as well as in patients suffering from SDAT. These observations challenge the specificity of some manifestations of dementia to the human species and provide new opportunities to study these alterations using rat peripheral nervous system as an experimental model. PMID- 2516981 TI - [Genetic coupling study using DNA markers in the familial form of Alzheimer's disease]. PMID- 2516983 TI - [Aspects of long-term care and of terminal care in aged patients with dementia in a nursing home]. PMID- 2516982 TI - [Piracetam: effect on posthypoxic inhibition of dopamine and acetylcholine release of striatum sections of the rat]. PMID- 2516984 TI - [Neuropsychological diagnosis and therapeutic management of a patient with suspicion of Alzheimer's disease]. PMID- 2516985 TI - [A study of recall index in normal young and old subjects]. PMID- 2516986 TI - Dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids and eicosanoid formation in humans. PMID- 2516987 TI - The synthesis, catabolism, and pathophysiological role of platelet-activating factor. PMID- 2516988 TI - [Statistical study of factors related to occurrence and progression of retinopathy in extremely premature infants: especially clinical changes in PaCO2 and pH]. AB - Out of 39 premature infants admitted to the NICU in Toho University Hospital from January 1983 to December 1985 and surviving for 2 months after birth, 22 extremely premature infants who were closely matched in terms of gestational age and body weight at birth were divided into 4 groups (operated group, non-operated A group, non-operated B group and broncho-pulmonary dysplasia (BPD) group) to assess the effect of respiratory management on retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). ROP occurred at a high frequency in extremely premature infants weighing less than 1,000 g. In most of the infants who underwent operation (cryocauterization), PaCO2 values were low for 1 month after birth, whereas pH tended to rise. In the non-operated B group, PaCO2 was almost normal, and pH tended toward acidosis. BPD, which causes severe respiratory disturbance, was observed in 4 cases, 3 of whom showed a rise in PaCO2 within 1 month after birth, but mild ROP. Thus, it was considered that PaCO2 and pH exacerbated ROP. PMID- 2516989 TI - [Increase in aqueous flare by a therapeutic dose of mannitol in humans]. AB - To evaluate the effects of mannitol on aqueous flare (aqueous protein concentration), we administered an intravenous clinical therapeutic dose to normal young adults (average age, 20.1 years), to normal older adults (average age, 61.3 years), and also to patients with diabetes mellitus, systemic hypertension, or pseudoexfoliation syndrome who were about to undergo intraocular surgery (average age, 66.4 years). Protein and cell levels in the aqueous fluid were determined with a device that measures laser light scattering in the aqueous fluid. Mannitol increased aqueous flare intensity. In all subjects, aqueous flare intensity was greatest around one hour following drug administration; the magnitude and the duration of the aqueous flare increase were significantly greater in normal older subject than in normal young adults; the magnitude was essentially the same in older adults with and without diseased barrier. The effect was reversed within 6 hours of drug administration in normal subjects. We considered the findings to represent changes in actual aqueous protein concentration and discussed the possible causes of this phenomenon. PMID- 2516990 TI - Periovulatory endocrinology and oocyte maturation in unmated mature blue fox vixens (Alopex lagopus). AB - Nine of 10 mature blue fox vixens (Alopex lagopus) in spontaneous oestrus ovulated approximately 2 days after the preovulatory increase in luteinizing hormone (LH). Plasma concentrations of follicle-stimulating hormone and progesterone increased simultaneously with the LH peak, whereas oestradiol-17 beta peaked 1 day previously. In the tenth vixen, an LH peak was not observed, and neither visible follicles nor corpora lutea were found in the ovaries 6 days after peak vaginal electrical resistance. Eggs were ovulated as primary oocytes, but oocyte maturation was initiated within the day of ovulation (2 days after the LH peak). Within the next 2 days (3-4 days after the LH peak) the first polar body was extruded, and the cumulus mass was completely dissociated from the zona pellucida. The interval between the preovulatory LH peak and initiation of the final oocyte maturation is thus considerably longer in the blue fox than for example in the cow (48-72 h compared with 9-12 h). This suggests that the relationship between these two events is somewhat different in the blue fox. PMID- 2516991 TI - [The effect of parenteral feeding on the metabolism of arachidonic acid in patients with cancer of the esophagus and the stomach]. AB - Blood plasma and erythrocyte level of arachidonic acid (C20:4) and blood plasma level of its two metabolites (6-keto-PGF1 alpha and TXB2) have been investigated in 24 patients with esophageal and gastric cancer. In the preoperative period and during 8-10 days postoperatively 12 patients were on "glucose" energy supply (group I) and 12 patients were on "lipid" energy supply (group II). Daily calorie intake was 30-35 kcal/kg. In the preoperative period Lipofundin-S infusions produced a significant increase in C20:4 blood plasma and erythrocyte levels. An increase in TXB2 concentration was accompanied by a certain increase in 6-keto PGF1 alpha content. At the same time in group I parenteral feeding caused no significant changes in the above parameters. Surgical trauma and anesthesia caused a considerable increase in 6-keto-PGF1 alpha blood plasma level in both groups (P less than 0.05), with a certain decrease in TXB2 level (P greater than 0.05). In the postoperative period, unlike "glucose", "lipid" energy supply stabilized C20:4 content in the erythrocyte membrane and favourably affected 6 keto-PGF1 alpha/TXB2 ratio. This is confirmed by a considerable increase in 6 keto-PGF1 alpha/TXB2 ratio, which in the course of the postoperative period was significantly higher in group II than in group I. PMID- 2516993 TI - [Diverticulum of the anterior urethra or syringocele of the Cowper glands. Apropos of a case]. PMID- 2516992 TI - [Malacoplakia of the colon, rectum and kidney: presentation of a case]. PMID- 2516994 TI - Calcium and proto-oncogene involvement in the immediate-early response in the nervous system. AB - Depolarization of neurons either in culture or in vivo results in the rapid, calcium-dependent induction of several, so-called, immediate-early genes; the prototypes being c-fos and c-jun. The proteins encoded by c-jun, c-fos, and several fos-related genes all participate in a complex that interacts with the AP 1 consensus DNA sequence, previously shown to be important for the "transcriptional activation" of certain genes. Thus it is proposed that neuronal stimulation, via elevated intracellular calcium, leads to the induction of a series of genes, some of which encode proteins involved in transcriptional regulation, that contribute to long-term adaptive and plastic responses. Surprisingly, the molecular composition of the brain AP-1 binding complex varies with time after stimulation. This is because some of the inducible Fos-related proteins accumulate with much slower kinetics than Fos itself and only appear in significant amounts when Fos has disappeared. Of some considerable interest is the result these compositional alterations have upon the transcriptional activity of the AP-1 complex. Given the foregoing findings we consider some of the possible implications this might have for aging and neurodegenerative disorders particularly with regard to alterations in cellular calcium homeostasis. PMID- 2516995 TI - New strategies for leprosy and tuberculosis and for development of bacillus Calmette-Guerin into a multivaccine vehicle. PMID- 2516996 TI - Molecular aspects of Theileria parva and approaches to vaccine development for animals. PMID- 2516997 TI - Biomedical science and the third world. Under the volcano. Prospects of paying for scientific advances. PMID- 2516998 TI - The role of vitamin E and selenium on arachidonic acid oxidation by way of the 5 lipoxygenase pathway. PMID- 2516999 TI - Brain injury after ischemia and trauma. The role of vitamin E. PMID- 2517000 TI - Treatment of pseudomonas aeruginosa colonisation in cystic fibrosis. AB - To test whether early treatment could postpone the chronic colonisation of the respiratory tract with mucoid strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in patients with cystic fibrosis, we performed a pilot study in 28 patients aged 2 to 18 years. A two week course of azlocillin (150 mg/kg/day) and tobramycin (10 to 15 mg/kg/day) was given after a mean duration of P aeruginosa colonisation of five months (range one to 11 months). Weight for height increased significantly by 3.5% (SEM 0.7%) of the predicted normal after chemotherapy. The eradication of P aeruginosa that was achieved in 18 children directly after hospital treatment was only temporary. Samples from only 10 and five patients remained negative three and six months after treatment, respectively. Five children remained free from P aeruginosa for a prolonged period of 14 to 32 months. We conclude that, apart from the clinical improvement in all patients, some children might benefit from early antipseudomonas treatment with respect to the bacteriological outcome. Most children, however, experience only a temporary reduction in colonisation. Further investigations in form of controlled clinical trials seem justified. PMID- 2517001 TI - Accidental feeding of a dilute antiseptic solution to five babies. PMID- 2517002 TI - Urban Trypanosoma (Schizotrypanum) cruzi: pathology in white mice of isolates from Panstrongylus geniculatus. AB - The histopathological alterations produced in white mice (NMRI strain) by isolates of Trypanosoma (Schizotrypanum) cruzi from Panstrongylus geniculatus captured in dwellings of the city of Caracas, Venezuela are reported. The heart, skeletal muscle, liver, spleen, duodenum, colon, lung, and brain were parasitized by all the isolates. All showed strong myotropism, with elevated virulence and severe histopathological alterations in the cardiac and skeletal muscle, and in the smooth muscle of the duodenum, colon, and lung; parasitization of the mononuclear phagocytic system was discrete. These results, in addition to the morphobiological characters reported in a previous paper, suggest that the isolates in question belong to the same type of parasite. The possible causes of this observation are discussed in the light of the heterogeneity of T. cruzi. The epidemiological significance of the existence of these parasite forms in the urban areas of Caracas is emphasized. PMID- 2517003 TI - [The RH-PA cell line--a source for obtaining the urokinase-type plasminogen activator]. AB - A new cell line (RH-PA) was established on the basis of the human embryonic kidney cell line (RH). The new line produces urokinase type plasminogen activator (PA). The activity of the activator amounted to 150-200 IU/ml estimated with the procedure of fibrin plates. Morphological types of the RH-PA and RH cells were studied and their comparative karyologic analysis was performed. The growth curves of the cells are presented and the dynamics of PA accumulation by them in the maintaining medium is described. Optimal conditions for cultivating the RH-PA cells providing maximum production of the PA were developed. PMID- 2517004 TI - [Antiseptic sensitivity of clinical strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa]. AB - MICs, the frequency of clinical and statistic resistance and the antiseptic activity index were studied in complex on out-of-hospital and hospital ecovars of P. aeruginosa. The forms resistant to a number of antiseptics, i.e. chloramine B, chlorhexidine, decamethoxine and dioxidine whose frequency eventually increased were shown to be widely distributed. The antiseptic sensitivity spectrum was more narrow and more heterogeneous than that of other bacteria, the heterogeneity level being dependent on the antiseptic type and bacterial ecovar. The activity of pervomur, phenol, resorcin and boric acid was higher against the clinical strains of P. aeruginosa while iodopyrin, sulfacetamide sodium and dioxidine were less active. The P. aeruginosa strains had natural resistance to cetylpyridinium chloride, rokkal, ethonium, sodium laurate and laurylsulfate and rivanol. It was recommended to assay antiseptic sensitivity of agents causing purulent inflammatory infections and to control circulation of antiseptic resistant variants of bacteria in hospitals. PMID- 2517005 TI - [Effects of rilmenidine on the central nervous system and kidney]. AB - Rilmenidine is an oxazoline with antihypertensive properties characterised by a dissociation of its antihypertensive and central side effects and the absence of tolerance. After a single dose, the antihypertensive activity is directly related to the dose of rilmenidine. Secondary sedative effects and dryness of the mouth are no different to those observed with placebo at doses of 0.5 and 1.0 mg. In two randomised trials versus placebo (N = 126) and versus clonidine (N = 333) in hypertensive patients after a 1 month washout period under placebo, the antihypertensive effect of rilmenidine was superior to placebo and comparable to that of clonidine (0.150 mg once or twice daily). After 4 and 6 weeks' treatment with rilmenidine (1 mg once or twice daily) the average decrease in supine systolic-diastolic BP was 21-15 mmHg and the average percentage of normalised values (diastolic BP less than or equal to 90 mmHg) was 60 per cent. The incidence of somnolence was comparable to that observed with placebo and 2 to 3 times less than that with equihypotensive doses of clonidine. No patients withdrew from the trial because of side effects. The sustained antihypertensive effect in an open trial of 269 patients treated for one year and 134 patients for two years, showed that there was no tolerance with rilmenidine. This result is probably related to the absence of salt and water retention and the conservation of renal function observed in single dose regime in healthy subjects and in chronic administration in hypertensives. No significant changes were observed in renal blood flow, glomerular filtration, filtration fraction, serum or urinary electrolyte concentrations.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2517007 TI - [Efficacy and acceptability of rilmenidine in mild to moderate arterial hypertension. A multicenter, randomized, double-blind trial, in comparison with methyldopa in 157 patients]. AB - A dissociation between the hypotensive activity and the central side effects has been demonstrated with rilmenidine (RIL) in previous studies. The object of this trial was to compare RIL with methyldopa (MD) during a 12 weeks' treatment (Day 0 to Day 84) and after stopping therapy (Day 84-Day 91). In particular, the trial was designed to evaluate the acceptability of the two agents. After 4 weeks of placebo, 76 men and 81 women (average age 55 years) were allocated according to a randomised double-blind protocol to RIL (N = 78) or MD (N = 79). The two groups were comparable with systolic/diastolic BP of 165/102 mmHg and 165/101 mmHg respectively. Monotherapy was administered to all the patients from Day 0 to Day 56 in order to compare RIL (1 mg every morning or 1 mg twice daily if necessary) and MD (250 mg morning and evening or 500 mg twice daily if necessary). Hydrochlorothiazide (25 mg daily) was associated from Day 56 to Day 84 if the supine diastolic BP was greater than or equal to 90 mmHg. A placebo was substituted from Day 84 to Day 91 to study the effect of withdrawing therapy. RESULTS: at Day 56 under monotherapy, the average supine systolic/diastolic BP had decreased significantly with RIL and MD to 140/110 mmHg and 140/100 mmHg respectively. An equivalent number of patients had normalised their blood pressures in both groups (systolic/diastolic BP less than or equal to 160/90 mmHg): 50% with RIL and 42% with MD (NS).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2517006 TI - [Current data on the pharmacology of rilmenidine]. AB - Oral rilmenidine (1 mg/kg/day for 2 weeks) significantly reduces the blood pressure and heart rate of conscious barodenervated dogs. A dose-dependent decrease in blood pressure and heart rate has been demonstrated with intraveinous rilmenidine (0.1 to 1 mg/kg) in pentobarbitone anaesthetised spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Chronic subcutaneous administration of rilmenidine (5 to 15 mg/kg/day) also produces a dose-dependent decrease of these two parameters in conscious SHR. In addition, rilmenidine reduces plasma noradrenaline and the liberation of catecholamines from the adrenal medulla; these actions could contribute to its antihypertensive effect. The hypotensive effect of rilmenidine, clonidine and related molecules, is due to a reduction in sympathetic tone of central or peripheral origin. Although rilmenidine binds to alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, it does not cause sedation in animal models: it does not prolong barbiturate-induced sleep in the mouse and rat at doses of up to 10 mg/kg and does not affect spontaneous locomotor activity in the rat at doses of up to 2.5 mg/kg. The results show a dissociation of the sedative and antihypertensive effects of rilmenadine. The almost complete absence of sedation in animal models may be explained by: as yet unknown properties inhibiting sedation, a preferential peripheral site of action and/or the presence of separate central receptors accounting for the sedative or hypotensive effects. The precise mechanism of the hypotensive effects of rilmenidine is currently under study. The binding of rilmenidine at central "imidazoline receptor" sites responsible for the regulation of the blood pressure could explain its mode of action and why its pharmacological profile is different to that of other centrally acting hypotensive agents. PMID- 2517008 TI - [Multicenter, double-blind study comparing rilmenidine 1 mg and hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg in 244 patients]. AB - The efficacy and acceptability of Rilmenidine (RIL) were assessed in a multicentre, controlled, double-blind trial versus hydrochlorothiazide (HCZ) in patients with mild to moderate hypertension. After an initial 4 week washout period on placebo, patients with diastolic BP of between 90 and 110 mmHg were administered in monotherapy either RIL 1 mg or HCZ 25 mg for four weeks (Day 0 Day 28). In the following four weeks (Day 28-Day 56), those with diastolic BP of over 90 mmHg were given, in association, the antihypertensive agent that they had not received initially. The other patients continued the trial with single daily doses of monotherapy. Two hundred and fourty four patients (48.4 +/- 0.6 years) with supine systolic and diastolic BP of 155.86 +/- 0.96 mmHg and 101.02 +/- 0.28 mmHg respectively were randomly allocated to two comparable treatment groups (RIL, n = 120 and HCZ, n = 124). The systolic and diastolic BP decreased significantly between Day 0 and Day 28, as much at Day 14 as at Day 28 in both treatment groups. The antihypertensive effect was comparable: at Day 28 the mean fall in systolic/diastolic BP was 16/10 mmHg in the RIL group and 15/9 mmHg in the HCZ group (NS). The clinical acceptability was equivalent in the two groups: secondary effects were responsible for one patient's withdrawal in each group and their incidence was 5% on average, 10% for the most common.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2517009 TI - [Effects of rilmenidine on arterial parameters in essential arterial hypertension]. AB - Rilmenidine (RIL) is a new antihypertensive agent which lowers sympathetic tone, so reducing systemic peripheral resistance. The effects of a single dose of RIL (1 mg) on arterial function were the object of a preliminary randomised double blind versus placebo trial in 14 patients with hypertension after a one month washout period on placebo. The following parameters were recorded before (T0) and 4 hours after administration (T4): blood pressure, heart rate (automatic recordings), diameter of the humeral artery (D), mean blood flow velocity (Vm) by an 8 MHz duplex pulsed Doppler system, local forearm resistances (LR = mean BP/D2 Vm/4), carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV) and humeral arterial wall tension (mean BP.D/2). The two groups were compared by statistical analysis of variance with two crossed factors. RIL significantly lowered systolic BP (p less than 0.02), diastolic BP (p less than 0.05) and mean BP (p less than 0.01) without changing the heart rate. The D and PWV were unchanged in the RIL group. There was a significant improvement in arterial wall tension (-6.7% vs + 1.1%; p = 0.02) associated with a tendency to increase the PWV (45% vs 4%; p = 0.097) and to decrease LR (46% vs 10%; p = 0.062) although those changes were not statistically significant compared with those observed with placebo. These initial results indicate that the hypotensive effect of RIL is accompanied by a reduction in humeral arterial wall tension which occurs without any change in arterial diameter. This also reflects a change in the pressure-volume relationship with RIL.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2517010 TI - [New discoveries in the regulation of arterial pressure: endazoline, rilmenidine and imidazoline receptors]. PMID- 2517011 TI - [Gliosis of the brain in Recklinghausen's neurofibromatosis]. AB - An autopsy case of Recklinghausen's disease is described with a large neck neurofibroma, skin melanosis, skull bones and teeth changes, elephantiasis of the head soft tissues, megalocephaly. Histologically an isomorphic-cell brain gliosis as a rare manifestation of neurofibromatosis is found. PMID- 2517012 TI - [Treatment of pulmonary thromboembolism with extrinsic plasminogen activator. A case report]. AB - A 49 year-old woman with acute pulmonary thromboembolism and severe hemodynamic impairment was successfully treated with tissue-type plasminogen activator (r TPA). She did not have previous pulmonary or cardiac diseases. Thirty days after immobilization of the right ankle, she had a sudden onset of dyspnea, epigastrial pain and syncope. As heparin therapy was unsuccessful, 90 mg of IV r-TPA was administered. There was rapid clinical and hemodynamic improvement of her condition. Pulmonary scanning one week later was normal and she was discharged without symptoms 12 days after the acute episode. PMID- 2517013 TI - [Prevention of non-A non-B hepatitis in Guadeloupe]. PMID- 2517014 TI - [Problems related to the diagnosis of Chagas' disease]. AB - Trypanosoma cruzi may be transmitted to a susceptible human through different routes: a superficial lesion in the skin, such as a scraping of the small wound produced by the hematophagous triatomid bug vector, which becomes infected with its contaminated feces; the placenta, from the infected mother to the product of conception; a transfusion from an infected donor, or even by ingestion of diverse foods infected or contaminated with the parasite. Whichever may be the transmission of the protozoon, it is advisable to have in mind that it is able to produce an asymptomatic or a symptomatic infection, being possible in both cases, using appropriated methods, to detect the T. cruzi and/or the antibodies generated. From the clinical stand-point, Chagas' Disease may present itself as acute or as a chronic disease. Habitually, the acute disease is characterized by general involvement, fever, hepato-splenomegaly, polidenopathy, and occasionally myocarditis and/or encephalitis, whereas, the chronic form of the disease is characterized by presenting itself in an isolated way or combined, chronic myocardiopathy, megaesophagous or megacolon. At any rate, the problems center in the possibility of a reasonable diagnostic assurance which permits the adoption of adequate therapeutic measures. Some facts, which may help to confront these problems are: a) The epidemiological antecedents (origin in an endemic area, personal knowledge of the vector or of being bitten by it, whether the mother or other relatives are affected by the disease, etc.).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2517016 TI - A general method to optimize the amount of enzyme in restriction and DNA modification reactions using the beta galactosidase blue-white plaques assay. AB - We propose a simple and economical method for assaying the activity of restriction and other modifying enzymes. The method involves assaying the use of the blue and white colored phenotypes of bacterial colonies obtained by digesting the polylinker sequence of M13 bacteriophage vectors followed by transformation in appropriate strains on X-gal/IPTG plates. In conjunction with restriction enzymes and DNA ligases, the method can evaluate polymerase activity and can be applied to test 3'...5' exonuclease activities such as that of T4 DNA polymerase, without having to use expensive radioisotopes. We describe its application in the assessment of restriction enzymes, DNA ligase and DNA polymerase activities. PMID- 2517015 TI - [Cryptosporidiosis in the V Region Chile. III. Study of malnourished patients, 1985-1987]. AB - Frequency of infection by Cryptosporidium sp. in 1,039 faecal smears stained by Ziehl-Neelsen, obtained from undernourished patients of a Nutritional Recovery Center and an ambulatory undernourished center from the Fifth Region, Chile, were studied. All underwent a coproparasitological examination by the modified Telemann method. Thirty eight (3.7%) patients infected by the parasite were detected, with an overall frequency of 8.5% among patients of the Nutritional Recovery Center and 1.9% among the ambulatory patients; this difference was statistically significant. The highest percentage of positive results were detected among the younger milk feeding infants. Also the percentage of difference among these and the older milk feeding infants (3.7%) was statistically significant. Association of Cryptosporidium sp. and Giardia lamblia was observed in 6 ambulatory patients (2.3%). PMID- 2517017 TI - Confocal microscopy: an overview. PMID- 2517018 TI - Cell biology of the Alzheimer tangle. PMID- 2517019 TI - Microtubular structure and tubulin polymerization. PMID- 2517020 TI - Magnetic resonance imaging evaluation of learning difficulties and incoordination in neurofibromatosis. AB - Areas of increased signal seen on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain are frequently present in neurofibromatosis and are considered possible areas of dysplasia or heterotopias. Since Rosman and Pearce [Brain 1967; 90:829-838] have shown that neuronal heterotopias in deep cerebral white matter are associated with mental retardation in neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF-1), we hypothesized that these areas of increased signal seen on MRI should be associated with learning difficulties or incoordination in children with NF-1. Using MRI, we studied 31 children with NF-1 and attempted to correlate the presence of areas of increased signal with learning difficulties or incoordination. We found no association. This suggests that either these areas of increased signal are heterotopias which are not associated with learning difficulties or incoordination, or these areas of increased signal are not heterotopias and are not relevant to the study of learning problems or incoordination in children with NF-1. PMID- 2517021 TI - Ultrastructural evidence for mast cell activation in a case of neurofibromatosis. AB - Neurofibromas contain fibroblasts and many mast cells, and recent hypotheses have linked fibrous tissue growth to activated mast cells. We describe the ultrastructure of mast cells and fibroblasts in a case of neurofibromatosis. Mast cells were numerous and showed extensive signs of activation. Mast cells were often intimately associated with fibroblasts, and mast cell granules could be seen inside fibroblasts ('transgranulation'). The fibroblasts were also activated. These results suggest that interactions between mast cells and fibroblasts may be important in the prominent collagen production that takes place in these tumors. PMID- 2517022 TI - Spinal neurofibroma presenting as atlanto-axial subluxation in von Recklinghausen neurofibromatosis. AB - A patient with von Recklinghausen neurofibromatosis (NF-1) developed spinal cord compression from atlanto-axial subluxation caused by a neurofibroma involving the odontoid peg. His case is discussed and the relevant literature reviewed. PMID- 2517023 TI - Bilateral internal auditory canal enlargement without acoustic nerve tumor in von Recklinghausen neurofibromatosis. AB - The common (and definitive) intracranial tumors in patients with one form of neurofibromatosis (NF), bilateral acoustic NF (NF-2), are bilateral acoustic neuromas. In this study, we present 2 cases with what appears to be another form of NF, namely, NF-1, who showed bilateral enlargement of the internal auditory canals. Bilateral caloric responses were remarkably impaired in both cases; a unilateral sensorineural hearing loss was observed in 1. No tumor was demonstrated in the enlarged internal auditory canals in either case. Although the pathophysiology remains uncertain, some patients with NF-1 show abnormal cochleovestibular function in association with bilateral internal auditory canal enlargement without an acoustic tumor. PMID- 2517024 TI - Report of a neurofibromatosis-like case: Monstrorum Historia, 1642. PMID- 2517025 TI - Neurofibromatosis in Gothenburg, Sweden. I. Background, study design and epidemiology. AB - In this study, a clinical evaluation was carried out for all patients who were at or beyond 20 years of age and known to the health services as cases of neurofibromatosis (NF) and who were resident in Gothenburg, Sweden, as of January 1, 1978. The approach of the study was clinical, with emphasis on the general somatic, psychiatric and genetic aspects of NF. The patients included in the study were ascertained by scrutiny of all available archives of medical records in the area, and by requests to every doctor in the city of Gothenburg to report any possible case of NF known to him or her. This search identified 74 patients with NF living in Gothenburg on the census day. All but 3 of these patients had definite von Recklinghausen NF (NF-1). This represents a prevalence of 1 case of NF in 4,600 adults, which must be considered a minimum frequency estimate. The 74 patients included 35 women with a mean age of 46 (+/- 17) years and 39 men with a mean age of 43 (+/- 14) years. The prevalence of NF was highest in the age range of 40-50 years, while it was significantly reduced in the ages above this range, most probably owing to an excess mortality. Sixty-nine of the original seventy four patients were personally interviewed and examined, including the 3 without definite NF-1. The patients were classified according to the degree of severity of NF into three categories: mild, moderate and severe. The number of patients in each groups was, respectively, 18, 43 and 13. A detailed description of each patient's pigmentary abnormalities and neurofibromas (number, appearance and localization) was recorded. Findings of osseous dysplastic changes (12-16%), endocrine changes (pheochromocytoma, 3%), malignant disease (sarcoma, 4%), epilepsy (3%) and other somatic diseases were also recorded. Mild mental retardation was present in 45% of the patients. The mental retardation did not appear progressive, and severe retardation was not found. Mental illness occurred in 23 (33%) patients, defined as mild in 8, moderate in 7 and severe in 8. No uniform psychiatric syndrome was found. Depressive syndrome, anxiety state with vegetative dysfunction and organic brain syndrome were most frequently observed. Hostile feelings and autonomic disturbances were the most common symptoms, each found in 50% of all patients. The frequency of abnormal neurological findings, presumably indicating manifestations of NF-1 in the central nervous system, was significantly increased among the patients with mental illness.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2517026 TI - Determination of homozygosity or heterozygosity for the G2m(n) allotype by a monoclonal, precipitating antibody. AB - Monoclonal antibody SH 21 was found to be a good anti-IgG2m(n) reagent both for the conventional typing (HA inhibition) and for precipitation in polyethylene glycol containing gel. Antibody SH 21, together with monoclonal antibody HP 6014 (anti-IgG2), was used for the discrimination between G2m(+n) homozygotes and heterozygotes in a double diffusion assay, where the two antibodies and a serum sample were placed in corners of a triangle. In the case of a homozygote SH 21 was able to stop the diffusion of IgG2 to a precipitation line, but some IgG2 of a heterozygote was able to diffuse beyond the precipitate, forming a crossed precipitation pattern. The validity of the typing was checked with serum samples from 54 families. All the 33 'obligatory heterozygotes' (G2m(+n) parent(s) of a G2m(-n) child, or the other way round) exhibited the crossed precipitate. The frequency of the G2mn allele in a Finnish population of 297 unrelated adults was 0.409. PMID- 2517027 TI - Susceptibility and resistance genes to insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus in the BB rat. AB - Insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM, type I) is an autoimmune disorder exhibiting a strong association with particular haplotypes of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC). We have previously shown that the u haplotype of the rat MHC (RT1) is absolutely required for expression of IDDM in the BB rat model of the disease. To define the precise regions of the RT1 contributing to disease occurrence and to address the mechanism by which the associated haplotype participates in disease pathogenesis, we have transferred recombinant haplotypes bearing the IDDM-associated MHC in defined regions onto the BB rat genetic background. In this report, we present data from two breeding studies utilizing the r8 haplotype (RT1AaBuDuEuCu) that demonstrate that (1) the RT1A locus is not involved in the disease association, (2) the MHC genes determining disease susceptibility are not unique to the BB rat, and (3) IDDM resistance genes are found outside the MHC. We also present evidence that the immunoregulatory defect characteristic of BB rats enhances the incidence of IDDM although it is not absolutely required for disease expression. We were able to track the transmission of the recombinant haplotypes in diabetic progeny using a combination of monospecific alloantisera and restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis using locus-specific MHC gene probes. PMID- 2517028 TI - Monoclonal antibodies to bovine major histocompatibility system antigens. AB - Of 89 monoclonal antibodies screened for anti-class I activity in a cytotoxic assay against bovine peripheral-blood lymphocytes, 6 reacted with all lymphocytes from all cattle tested, 72 failed to react at all and 11 reacted with polymorphic determinants. The reactivity of some of the 11 polymorphic monoclonal antibodies was dependent upon the bovine major histocompatibility system (BoLA) class I type. Eight monoclonal antibodies selected for putative anti-class II activity reacted with B-enriched lymphocytes from all cattle tested. PMID- 2517029 TI - Structure-activity relationship between prostacyclin and its platelet receptor. Correlation of structure change and the platelet activity. AB - Correlation analysis between the structural changes of PGI2 and the corresponding changes in platelet activity was performed to look into the following structural features: (1) the spatial relationship of critical functional groups, (2) conformational flexibility of the molecule as a result of chemical modification; (3) charge distribution around C6a; (4) hydrogen-bonding capability and mispairing and (5) the steric effects which resulted from chemical modifications. Our studies led to three important conclusions: (1) The C1 carboxylate and C11, C15 hydroxyl groups of PGI2 are essential for platelet activity. Modifications that change their relative positions reduce the activity. The ring structure and the C5 and C13 double bonds are molecular designs to maintain this unique geometry. (2) The C6a oxygen, although not vital to the binding geometry, is important for the biological potency. Decreasing the electronegativity of C6a oxygen leads to decreased potency. (3) We propose that any additional hydrogen bond donor present between C1 and C15 could cause a hydrogen-bond mispairing and therefore a decreased activity. These findings should be useful for designing new PGI2 analogues and for determining the configuration of receptor-associated PGI2 by a molecular mechanics technique. PMID- 2517030 TI - Prostacyclin and the mechanism of action of defibrotide. AB - Defibrotide (DEF) is a product of the controlled hydrolysis of DNA from mammalian lungs. In vitro DEF (1-2000 micrograms/ml) neither inhibited the aggregation of human, rabbit and cat platelets nor released PGI2 from cultured porcine aortic endothelial cells. Preincubated with platelet preparations, DEF (10 micrograms/ml) lowered the IC50 for the anti-aggregatory action of PGI2 from 2.1 6.5 nM to 0.6-2.4 nM. In vivo DEF (2-20 mg/kg i.v. or 0.1-10 micrograms/ml locally o.t.) dispersed platelet thrombi in the extracorporeal circulation of anaesthetized heparinized cats. In contrast to an immediate and reversible action of PGI2 (0.3-3 micrograms/kg i.v. or 1-3 ng/ml locally o.t.), the delayed and irreversible dispersion of thrombi by DEF in vivo was inhibited by aspirin (50 mg/kg i.v.), indomethacin (10 mg/kg i.v.) or dexamethasone (2 mg/kg i.v.). After pretreatment with these drugs DEF, although deprived of its own effect on thrombi, still enhanced their dispersion by exogenous and endogenous PGI2. Similarly, at its subthreshold effective concentration (10 ng/ml, o.t.) DEF potentiated the thrombolytic action of PGI2 (1 microgram/kg, i.v.), dazoxiben (1 mg/kg, i.v.) and nicotinamide (100 mg/kg i.v.). It is concluded that DEF potentiates the action of PGI2 on platelets. In vivo DEF may facilitate an interaction between platelets and endothelium, leading to augmented generation of PGI2 or of its biologically active products, which are endowed with fibrinolytic properties. PMID- 2517031 TI - The role of prostacyclin in the protective effects of pentoxifylline and other xanthine derivatives in endotoxin action in mice. AB - The xanthine derivative pentoxifylline (POF, Trental) and its metabolically more stable structural analogues, HWA 138 and HWA 448, were compared for their capacity to prevent leukopenia provoked in mice by injection of bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS). It was found that HWA 138 and HWA 448 counteracted LPS induced leukopenia more effectively than POF. Indomethacin diminished the action of HWA 138 and HWA 448, and the stable prostacyclin analogue CG-4203 (Taprosten) mimicked the effect of the xanthine derivatives. Since pentoxifylline and its structural analogues induced synthesis of PGI2 in endothelial cell cultures, it is suggested that its effect on LPS leukopenia is mediated by endogenous prostacyclin production. All of the xanthine derivatives tested and CG-4203 blocked the leukopenia induced by recombinant tumor necrosis factor, which is a major endogenous mediator for endotoxin toxicity. PMID- 2517032 TI - Aluminium fluoride enhances phospholipase A2 activity and eicosanoid synthesis in macrophages. AB - Eicosanoid synthesis in macrophages is controlled by the availability of free arachidonic acid. Activation of the phospholipase A2 (PLA2) is an important mechanism leading to increased eicosanoid synthesis. In order to obtain further insight into the regulatory mechanisms of eicosanoid release, we incubated macrophages with the protein kinase C (PKC) activator dioctanoylglycerol (DiC8) or aluminium fluoride (AIF4-), a well-described activator of guanine nucleotide binding proteins (G-proteins). Arachidonic acid release, membrane-bound PLA2 activity and prostaglandin production in macrophages were enhanced by both substances in a time-dependent manner. Incubation with the phorbol ester TPA had no effect on the PLA2-activity. AIF4- elevated the cellular diacylglycerol content. The results suggest that activation of PLA2 and successive eicosanoid synthesis by AIF4- is mediated by direct activation of PLA2 by the AIF4(-) induced generation of diacylglycerol. PMID- 2517033 TI - Gestational profile of prostaglandin E2 synthesis by porcine placenta and fetal membranes. AB - The capacity of the diffuse, epitheliochorial porcine placenta (chorioamnion plus endometrium: AMCE and chorioallantois plus endometrium: ALCE) and allantoamnion (ATA), obtained from sows at 47-112 days of gestation (n = 12), to release PGE2, during in vitro explant incubation, was determined. There was no significant difference between PGE2 release from AMCE and ALCE, and the data obtained from these two tissues were pooled. The release of PGE2 from ATA was, at all stages of gestation, significantly less (8-50 fold; p less than 0.01, n = 12) than that released from AMCE/ALCE. During gestation, the basal release of PGE2 from AMCE/ALCE increased from 13.7 +/- 2.8 pmol/100 mg per incubation (n = 8; mean +/- S.E.M.) at less than 80 days to a maximum of 176.5 +/- 30.9 pmol PGE2/100mg per incubation (n = 10) at greater than 109 days of gestation. Basal PGE2 release from ATA increased from 1.6 +/- 0.6 pmol PGE2/100 mg per incubation (n = 3) at less than 80 days to 3.5 +/- 0.5 pmol PGE2/100 mg per incubation at greater than 109 days gestation. At all stages of gestation and in all tissues, the addition of sodium arachidonate significantly stimulated PGE2 release, indicating that during gestation prostaglandin synthesis by porcine placenta and fetal membranes is, at least partly, substrate limited. The observed increase in the release of prostaglandin E2 from placenta and fetal membranes that occurred from 90 days of gestation and rapidly increased at term may reflect an increase in substrate availability, an increase in the activity of prostaglandin endoperoxide H synthase- E isomerase or a combination of these processes. PMID- 2517034 TI - Transient concentrations and agonist potency of PGH2 in platelet activation by endogenous arachidonate. AB - Human platelets were prelabelled with [14C]arachidonate and stimulated with thrombin or methyl mercury. [14C]PGH2 and the more stable of the other [14C]eicosanoids formed were rapidly extracted with organic solvent cooled to -30 degrees C and analyzed by radio-TLC. TXB2 and PGH2 were also quantified by radioimmunoassay, the latter as its index metabolite PGE2. PGH2 reached its peak concentration of 12 nmol/l after 20-30 s when it amounted to approximately 2/3 of the TXB2 concentration. In the presence of the thromboxane synthase inhibitor dazoxiben, PGH2 peaked after 60 s and afterwards declined in favour of PGE2, PGD2 and PGF2 alpha. Thirty seconds after stimulation with thrombin 1 IU/ml or methyl mercury 20 mumol/l, PGH2 amounted to 35 or 28% of the cyclooxygenase products in the absence and to 66 or 63% in the presence of dazoxiben, respectively. The platelet-activating potency of PGH2 was evaluated with purified PGH2 in platelets pretreated with acetylsalicylic acid. The EC50 values of PGH2 were 0.69 and 19 nmol/l for shape change and aggregation, respectively. U 46619 produced the same effects at 4.1 and 23 nmol/l. PGH2-induced [3H]serotonin release did not exceed 25%, whereas U 46619 was able to induce approximately 50% [3H]serotonin release. Dazoxiben enhanced the aggregation induced by PGH2. Human serum albumin inhibited the aggregating effect of PGH2, suppressed the enhancing effect of dazoxiben and shifted the metabolism of PGH2 to the inhibitory PGD2. The TXA2/PGH2 receptor antagonist daltroban suppressed the agonistic effects of endogenous or added PGH2, demonstrating that the TXA2/PGH2 receptor was its site of action.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2517036 TI - The -24/-12 promoter comes of age. AB - A new bacterial promoter type has been identified in the last few years. Originally designated as nif (= nitrogen fixation) or ntr (= nitrogen regulation) consensus promoter, it is now evident that this promoter occurs in many different bacterial species and is used not only for genes involved in nitrogen assimilation but also for genes determining many other unrelated metabolic functions. The general features of this type of promoter are (i) the conserved 24(GG)/-12(GC) consensus sequence, (ii) its recognition by a specific RNA polymerase sigma factor, sigma 54, which is encoded by the ntrA gene (synonyms: glnF, rpoN, rpoE), and (iii) the requirement for a transcriptional regulatory protein to activate the expression of the associated genes. In addition, many (but not all) of these genes possess a promoter-upstream activator sequence (enhancer) which is the target site for the binding of the activating protein and is required for maximal expression. In some cases, in which gene expression does not appear to be dependent on the presence of upstream binding sites, the activating protein may interact directly with the RNA polymerase-promoter complex. In conclusion, the expression from all -24/-12 consensus promoters known to date is positively controlled. PMID- 2517035 TI - Effect of pregnancy plasma upon in vitro parameters of cell mediated immunity. AB - Pregnant women were classified according to their serological status for cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex virus or rubella virus. Lymphocytes taken from non-pregnant women were shown to be able to recognise viral antigens and the mitogen phytohaemagglutinin by the measurement of proliferative responses and by the production of gamma interferon. Proliferative responses or gamma interferon production were greatly reduced in the presence of plasma taken during the first, second or third trimester and immediately post-partum. The responses then gradually returned to normal after delivery. The availability of serial sera taken before pregnancy as well as during and after pregnancy in individual women showed that this effect was maintained even when sera had been stored frozen for more than one year. Mixing experiments were performed to vary the proportion of pregnancy serum in any particular assay but this did not prove that pregnancy sera were actively suppressive. Instead, the data suggest that pregnancy sera are deficient in some factor or factors which are required to support lymphocyte proliferation. The effect was not attributable to the physiological haemodilution of pregnancy leading to a reduced concentration of putative factors nor could transferrin levels or the iron binding capacity of this protein be implicated. PMID- 2517038 TI - [Synthesis and cloning of V gamma 3 cDNA of monoclonal antibody]. AB - With the guanidinium isothiocyanate method, total RNA was isolated from hybridoma cells that secrete monoclonal antibody against Brucella melitenses. Poly (A)+ RNA was obtained by oligo (dT)-cellulose affinity chromatography. Reverse transcriptase reaction was performed with a primer 3'A-T-A-G-G-T-G-A-C-C 5' that is complement to the codons of No. 122-125 amino acid residues in 5' terminus of constant region. The size of synthesized ds-cDNA is about 300bp, that is consistent with the length of variable region genes of heavy chain. The ds-cDNA was inserted into plasmid pUC19 with dC: dG tailing method, and the inserted plasmid was used to transform E. coli HB101. It has been proved that the insert was a variable region gene of heavy chain by clone hybridization in situ, size of insert and Southern blot. PMID- 2517037 TI - [Study on molecular evolution for both variable segments of immunoglobulin heavy chain and T cell receptor]. AB - In order to explain difference and similarity in producing antibody diversity between immunoglobulin (Ig) and T cell receptor (TCR), authors compared both codon substitution and concerted evolution rate between the variable segment of Ig heavy (Ig VH) and that of TCR (TCR V). The protein sequences of TCR V alpha (including 8 gene segments from mouse and 3 from human), TCR V beta (including 11 from mouse and one from human) and T cell V gamma (including 2 from mouse and 4 from human) were compiled, as well as the protein sequences of Ig VH (3 from human, 11 from mouse, 3 from caiman and one from shark) were collected. It is shown that: (1) the nucleotide substitution of TCR V segment is 2.4 times as large as that of Ig VH in coding region; (2) as for concerted evolution, gene duplicate rates in TCR V and Ig VH are 1.7 X 10(-8) and 1.6 X 10(-8)/gene/year, respectively. The number of TCR V(V alpha equals to 100 and V beta equals to 30) is less than the one of Ig VH (VH equals to 300), for TCR V is subject to negative selection of major histocompatibility complex according to the neutral theory. We discussed that is somatic mutation or DNA rearrangement the main force in producing antibody diversity and are there pseudogenes in TCR V or not. PMID- 2517040 TI - Hemocultures from chronic Chagasic patients using EDTA or heparin as anticoagulants. AB - Hemoculture tests, a method for the detection of Trypanosoma cruzi, were used to investigate the effects of the anticoagulants heparin or EDTA on the parasite growth in culture medium (liver infusion tryptose, LIT). Hemocultures from 13 patients with positive serology for chronic Chagas' disease performed in parallel with both anticoagulants resulted in a total of seven (54%) positive hemocultures, three positive with blood samples collected with EDTA (23%), two with heparin (15%) and two with both anticoagulants (15%). There was no significant difference between the number of positive tubes in blood samples collected with either heparin (11%) or with EDTA (13%), an indication that heparin does not block the growth of T. cruzi. However, the simultaneous use of both anticoagulants may improve the positivity index of the hemocultures. PMID- 2517039 TI - Mouse brain Tau proteins: microheterogeneity and phosphorylation. AB - Tau proteins are involved in polymerization of tubulin into microtubules. They comprise a heterogeneous group of proteins that can be resolved by two dimensional gel electrophoresis using a non-equilibrium pH gradient in the first dimension. Developmental studies show that mouse brain Tau proteins are more heterogeneous in 15-day old mice than in newborn pups or adults. Tau phosphorylation is also more heterogeneous at this stage. PMID- 2517042 TI - Ankle taping: support given by different materials. AB - Three different adhesive and two non-adhesive tapes were used by three operators to assess the compressive action exerted on the ankle at the moment of strapping, during different phases of gait, and after some days of treatment in ten volunteers. Only the adhesive tapes were still able to prevent swelling after five days. They should be used if a prolonged compressive action is required. PMID- 2517041 TI - Convulsions induced by canatoxin in rats are probably a consequence of hypoxia. AB - Canatoxin, a convulsant neurotoxin from the seeds of Canavalia ensiformis, induces lipoxygenase-dependent hypoxia and sex-related alterations of carbohydrate metabolism in rats which are blocked by glucose, diazepam and hexamethonium. The present study analyzes the possible casual relationship between the convulsant action of canatoxin and its effects on carbohydrate metabolism. The incidence of canatoxin-induced convulsions was greater in male than in female rats. Pretreatment of male rats with drugs that block hypoxia, such as glucose (2.5 g/kg, iv, 15 min), diazepam (5 mg/kg, ip, at 48 h, 24 h and 15 min), hexamethonium (4 mg/kg, ip, 15 min) and NDGA (125 mg/kg, ip, 1 h), also protected the animals against convulsions, respiratory distress and death. These results suggest that canatoxin-induced convulsions are probably the consequence of hypoxia and both effects are mediated by lipoxygenase activation. PMID- 2517043 TI - [Duodenal mucosa lactase, sucrase and alkaline phosphatase in 37 normal subjects in the Chongqing area]. PMID- 2517044 TI - Biochemical and genetic studies with arginine and proline auxotrophs of Neisseria gonorrhoeae. AB - The prevalence of specific arginine biosynthesis gene defects was studied for 319 arginine-requiring clinical isolates of Neisseria gonorrhoeae by using the ability of the strains to utilize intermediates of arginine biosynthesis. Only 11% of the uracil-requiring strains defective in the carbamylation of ornithine to yield citrulline had a defective carbamoylphosphate synthetase gene (carAB). Strains defective in carAB were of auxotype CUH. The other strains (89%) having a dual requirement for citrulline and uracil, which were mostly of auxotype PCU, were defective in the ornithine transcarbamoylase gene (argF). Over 90% of the strains were defective either in argJ (174 strains) or in argF (126 strains). Three argininosuccinate-requiring strains (i.e., defective in argG) of auxotype PAU were identified. Some of the arginine auxotrophs of N. gonorrhoeae defective in carAB, argJ, argF, or argG were complemented by genetic transformation with DNA from recombinant bacteriophages carrying characterized gonococcal arginine biosynthesis genes. Gene defects in proA (five strains) and in proB (six strains) were identified by gonococcal transformation assays with recombinant bacteriophages or plasmids carrying proline biosynthesis genes from N. gonorrhoeae. None of the 11 proline-requiring strains tested was defective in proC. PMID- 2517045 TI - [Ischemic-reperfusion injury of the heart: comparison of intra- and extracellular types of cardioplegic solutions]. PMID- 2517046 TI - Inhibitory effect of fumaric acid on 3'-methyl-4-(dimethylamino)azobenzene induced hepatocarcinogenesis in rats. AB - Fumaric acid (FA) suppressed the carcinogenesis in the liver of rats fed 3' methyl-4-(dimethylamino)azobenzene (3'-Me-DAB), and a study was performed to examine the effect of FA on deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) synthesis and subcellular structures of hepatocytes under the anticarcinogenic regimens. Male Donryu strain rats were given 3'-Me-DAB by being fed a diet containing 0.06% 3'-Me-DAB for 50 d. They were then given a diet containing 1% FA and drinking water containing 0.025% FA for 53 to 69 weeks. Hepatocytes were isolated from the liver by the collagenase perfusion method and placed in culture, and their activity for DNA synthesis was measured in terms of the incorporation of [3H]dThd into DNA. An enhanced DNA synthesis of hepatocytes was noted in the rats given FA, indicating that FA enhanced the proliferation of hepatocytes to counteract the carcinogenic effect of 3'-Me-DAB. An electron microscopic examination indicated that the distribution of subcellular organella was almost normal in the FA-treated hepatocytes. PMID- 2517047 TI - [The search for endogenous or exogenous MPTP-like substances]. AB - Since the discovery of 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) in 1983 as a parkinsonian neurotoxin, endogenous or exogenous MPTP-like substances have been extensively investigated. Tetrahydroisoquinoline (TIQ) is a trace amine newly discovered in parkinsonian and control human brains. Like MPTP, TIQ inhibits tyrosine hydroxylase and NADPH ubiquinone oxidoreductase to reduce dopamine and ATP in the nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons. TIQ produced parkinsonian symptoms after chronic administration in monkeys, which were recovered by L-DOPA. However, TIQ does not cause neuronal cell death at least in young monkeys. If some MPTP-like neurotoxins could be the cause of Parkinson's disease, some other factors such as immunological, neurotrophic, or genetic factors may work together with the putative neurotoxins during the process of aging. PMID- 2517048 TI - [Eye movement is controlled by basal ganglia-induced GABAergic inhibition]. AB - Saccadic eye movement is controlled by a midbrain structure, superior colliculus (SC). Cells in its intermediate layer show a burst of spikes before saccades to the contralateral disc. A major input to the SC comes from the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr). SNr cells are characterized by their high frequency tonic discharge. Many of them stop discharging before a contralateral saccade only when the saccade is made intentionally. The mirror image-like relationship between the SNr and the SC suggests that the nigro-collicular connection is inhibitory. To determine whether the nigro-collicular inhibition is necessary for normal eye movements, we injected a small amount of GABA-related substances into the SC or the SNr. Following injection of muscimol (GABA agonist) into the SC, contralateral saccades became delayed, hypometric and slower; the monkey finally became unable to make saccades. This result indicated that the SC is crucial for normal saccades and that SC cells have ample GABA receptors. Following injection of bicuculline (GABA antagonist), irrepressible saccades occurred repeatedly to the contralateral side, suggesting that SC cells are under tonic inhibition which is mediated by GABA. Similar involuntary saccades were induced by injection of muscimol into the SNr. This suggested that the SNr is the origin of the GABAergic tonic inhibition. These results suggested that the basal ganglia control the initiation of saccadic eye movement by changing the level of the nigro-collicular inhibition. PMID- 2517049 TI - [Choreic movements and dopamine--implications to the underlying neural mechanisms involved]. AB - Choreic movement is one of the most attractive involuntary movements in terms of searches for the underlying mechanisms. Huntington's disease is a most popular disorder exhibiting choreic movements, in which the rather selective striatal degeneration is postulated to be responsible for the generation of choreic movements. In this respect, we have recently produced an experimental model of choreic movements in monkey by combined methods of kainic acid injection into the unilateral striatum and the oral administration of L-DOPA. The purpose of this paper is to summarize our experiment and to review the previous papers on experimental model of choreic movements in order to shed light on the underlying mechanisms of choreic movements. There are at least following three possible mechanisms in the generation of choreic movement. 1) A massive loss of GABAergic inhibitory neurones in the striatum induces disinhibitory effects on nigral dopaminergic neurones, which causes activation of dopaminergic neurones and choreic movements. However, a loss of GABA in the nigra does not always correlate with the generation of choreic movements. 2) A hypersensitive receptors for dopamine in the striatum may cause choreic movements. In fact, however, dopamine receptors are decreased or normal rather than increased not only in Huntington's disease but also in monkey models. 3) A massive loss of neurones in the striatum causes a loss of post-synaptic components of dopaminergic terminals. This may further cause rearrangements and compensatory changes in dopaminergic terminals in the spared striatum. These changes may activate pre-synaptic dopaminergic components which are further activated by the administration of L-DOPA. This hypothesis is mainly derived from the experimental model in monkey. PMID- 2517050 TI - Insulin and glucagon secretion in streptozotocin-diabetic rats: influences of islets transplanted to the renal subcapsular space. AB - Two days after diabetes induction by streptozotocin 70 mg/kg i.v. in rats, 1,000 freshly hand-picked islets were transplanted to the renal subcapsular space. The insulin and glucagon secretory capacities were evaluated during the first 10 days after transplantation by the use of arginine infusion and glucose injection. Already at day 3 after transplantation, the basal hyperglycemia and hyperglucagonemia were markedly reduced. However, no plasma insulin response to arginine or glucose was observed in the transplanted rats, whereas the glucagon response to arginine exaggerated that both in the diabetic and in the healthy controls. At day 10 after transplantation, the plasma insulin response to arginine was significantly improved to that at day 3, but it was still lower than in controls. In contrast, the glucose-induced increase in plasma insulin levels was now normalized. Also the glucagon response to arginine was similar in the transplanted animals as in the healthy controls. In conclusion, (a) streptozotocin-diabetic rats transplanted with 1,000 freshly hand-picked islets to the renal subcapsular space had near-normal plasma insulin and glucagon responses to arginine and glucose already at 10 days after transplantation, (b) the insulin response to glucose seemed normalized prior to that of arginine, and (c) the basal hyperglucagonemia was normalized already at day 3 after transplantation, i.e., it was restored earlier than was the insulin response to arginine or glucose. PMID- 2517051 TI - Localization of intracellular zinc under conditions of altered permeability control of the plasma membrane. AB - Intracellular zinc was located as electron dense granules associated with the plasma membrane, endoplasmic reticular membranes, mitochondrial membranes, nuclear membranes and chromatin in Zajdela ascitic hepatoma and AK5 macrophage ascitic tumour cells. The quantity of intracellular zinc estimated by atomic emission spectrometer was different in the two cell lines. However, after loss of permeability control by the plasma membrane, involving glutaraldehyde and heat shock treatments, the quantity of intracellular zinc was increased to almost the same extent in both cases. PMID- 2517052 TI - Achievements in clinical research of treating internal diseases with traditional Chinese medicine in recent years. PMID- 2517053 TI - Pharmacological actions and clinical use of fructus schizandrae. AB - Fructus Schizandrae (FS) is a well-known Chinese herb which has been widely used in ancient China. During recent decades, it has been found to be effective in viral and chemical induced hepatitis. In this paper, we report the studies on the chemical constituents and pharmacological actions of FS on mice liver. The results indicated that FS and its several components can mainly protect liver from injury induced by toxic substances such as CCl4; they have anti-oxidant activities against oxygen free radicals; FS and four components have inducing action on liver cytochrome P-450; they also promote certain anabolic metabolism such as serum protein biosynthesis and glycogenesis. All these activities would be of importance in the protection and repair of the injured liver cells. The clinical use of FS is also presented. PMID- 2517054 TI - Radiation hormesis. A new concept in radiological science. AB - Low-dose ionizing radiation caused definite stimulation of immune reactions both in humans and mice. The PFC reaction in response to SRBC immunization and the NK activity of the splenocytes were significantly enhanced after low-dose whole body irradiation. Activation of the T lymphocytes, especially the TH, with increased production of IL-2, might be a critical step in the whole process of immunoenhancement. A single dose of 75 mGy X-rays caused significant lowering of hypothalamic M-Enk content as well as serum corticosterone level. The increased serum testosterone level would exert an inhibitory influence on the CRF-ACTH-CS system to keep the blood corticosterone at a lower than normal level which might facilitate the immune reactions in the SRBC-immunized animals. The increased catecholamines in the spleen would probably reinforce this effect resulting in immunoenhancement. Low-dose ionizing radiation caused increased repair of the genetic material at both the molecular and subcellular levels. The UDS of human and murine lymphocytes was augmented by single or continuous low-dose irradiation. The stimulation of DNA polymerase activity might be responsible for such effects. Exposure to very small doses of low LET radiation could induce in different tissues an adaptive response which alleviated chromosome damage caused by subsequent larger dose radiation. Such an adaptive response could be induced both in vivo and in vitro in different animal species. The induced adaptive response faded away after 3 cell cycles could be re-induced by a second exposure to low-dose radiation. The mechanism of the inductive process needs further study.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2517055 TI - Relationship between clinical manifestations and coronary angiographic morphology in patients with coronary artery disease. AB - To study the relationship between clinical manifestations and coronary anatomy and morphology, coronary angiography was performed in 20 patients with chronic stable angina (Group I), in 18 patients with unstable angina (Group II), and in 20 patients with previous myocardial infarction (Group III). Although the site and extent of coronary artery disease were similar among the three groups, coronary morphology differed considerably, with a concentric lesion occurring in 70% of Group I patients and an eccentric lesion in 62% and 63% of Group II and Group III patients, respectively. The study suggests that coronary lesion morphology may form an anatomic basis in determining clinical manifestations for patients with coronary artery disease. An eccentric coronary stenosis may be useful in identifying high-risk patients. PMID- 2517056 TI - Sodium and potassium levels in hypertensive children. AB - In a baseline survey of 4,936 school children aged 6-16 years, 199 children with systolic blood pressure (SBP) values equal or greater than the 95-th percentiles for age and sex were chosen as the hypertensive group (HBP), and were matched for age and sex with 197 children with SBP from the 5-th through the 50-th percentiles as the control (normotensive) group (NBP). For both groups the intra RBC and plasma sodium and potassium contents, 8-hour night urinary sodium, potassium and creatinine excretions for three days, and an oral saline-water load test were performed. The results show that (1) intra-RBC potassium level in the HBP was lower than that in NBP. The level in those with positive hypertension family history (FH+) was lower than that with negatives (FH-). The intra-RBC potassium contents correlated inversely with diastolic BP. No correlation between intra-RBC sodium and BP was found; (2) Plasma sodium concentration in HBP was much lower than that in NBP. No difference was found between the FH+ and FH- in the plasma sodium concentrations; (3) Mean 8-hour night urinary potassium excretion expressed as mmol/g creatinine, was lower in HBP than in NBP; (4) After the saline load test the 4-hour urinary sodium excretion was significantly higher in HBP. Of those children with FH- the 4-hour sodium excretion in HBP was higher than that in NBP, but no significant difference was found between HBP and NBP of the FH+ children in the 4-hour urinary sodium excretions.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2517057 TI - Life table method for analyzing relationship between smoking and hypertension. AB - The life table method is introduced for describing the relationship of smoking amount to prevalence rate of hypertension. The smoking level at different sex groups are collected and grouped according to their cumulative smoking amount. Using the total number of peasants, and the number of hypertensives in each group, one is able to calculate the probability of occurrence of hypertension for each dose group as well as for each cumulative dose group, which indicated that there was a dose-effect curve in estimating the relationship between the cumulative smoking and the probability of hypertension, and females presented a significantly higher probability of hypertension than males in same smoking level. PMID- 2517058 TI - Gastric gastrinoma. AB - Two patients with Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome were diagnosed and treated in PUMC Hospital, the primary tumors were found in the stomach. On sectioning of the gastrectomized specimens, 85 tumors ranging from 0.1 to 1.0 cm in diameter were disclosed in Case 1, and a large ulcero-infiltrative carcinoma-like tumor in Case 2. Both tumors had already metastasized to regional lymph nodes and/or liver. Tumor cells in both cases exhibited gastrin, NSE, GH and hCG alpha immunoreactivity immunocytochemically, and abundant neurosecretory granules of 100-250 nm in diameter under electron microscope. The clinicopathological, immunocytochemical and ultrastructural findings of tumors from these two cases met the criteria of primary malignant gastrinoma of the stomach. PMID- 2517059 TI - Clinical application of autogenous mandibular bone grafts. Analysis of 166 cases. AB - Of the 166 patients receiving autogenous mandibular bone grafts during 1972-1987, 55 were used for repair of mandibular bone defect, 67 for correction of maxillofacial malformation and 44 for reconstruction of temporo-mandibular joint. Follow-up showed that 155 patients had satisfactory results after operation. PMID- 2517060 TI - Scanning electron microscopic observation on the surface ultrastructure of leucocytes in CSF. AB - Using scanning electron microscope (SEM), The CSF leucocytes from 3 healthy subjects and 12 patients with various NS diseases were observed. The findings were used to compare with those by optical microscope (OM) and those of human peripheral blood cells by SEM. Five types of CSF cells with particular surface structures, are emphasized in relation to both optical microscopic findings and the involved diseases. PMID- 2517062 TI - Pathological changes in laryngeal mucosa and muscles. Experimental observation on guinea pigs with induced hoarseness. PMID- 2517061 TI - The influence of adaptation on DC-component of human electroretinogram. AB - The effect of light stimulus intensity and background light illumination on human DC-electroretinogram-(ERG) was measured over a wide range. The DC-component, which followed the B-wave, could be recorded by a long lasting light stimulus with DC-recording (direct coupling). The DC-component showed in comparison to the base line positive or negative values depending on the stimulus intensity. The DC component rose with increasing light stimulus intensities and fell with increasing background light luminances. When the amplitudes of the DC-component to serial stimulus intensities and different background luminances showed responses different to those of the A-wave, they had similar properties to those of B-wave. The site of the "neural" adaptation in vision may be located in the inner retinal layers, from which both DC-component and B-wave originate. PMID- 2517063 TI - Urinary citrate and oxalate in 42 diabetics. PMID- 2517064 TI - Catecholamine acute abdomen. A case of adrenal medulla hyperplasia accompanied by acute abdomen. PMID- 2517065 TI - Is there a hepatitis B virus-associated glomerulonephritis? Identification of HBsAG, HBcAG and HBeAG in kidney with monoclonal antibodies. AB - In an attempt to clarify the relationship between hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and glomerulonephritis (GN), and to explore the significance and possible mechanisms of HBV deposition in kidney, renal biopsy specimens obtained from 69 HBV carriers with various forms of GN and 69 age-, sex-, and renal histology-matched controls were studied with 4-layer PAP immunoperoxidase and indirect immunofluorescence techniques using monoclonal antibodies to HBV surface (HBsAg), core (HBcAg) and e antigen (HBeAg). The 3 HBV associated antigens were detected in the kidney in 18/18 patients with membranous nephropathy and in 21/26 (80.8%) patients with lupus nephritis regardless of whether HBV antigenemia was present or not. In certain types of primary GN, including IgA nephropathy, mesangial proliferative GN and membrano-proliferative GN, HBsAg in the kidney was more common in patients with HBs antigenemia than in those without it (49.1% vs 26.4%, P less than 0.05). No significant difference was observed between patients with and without HBV antigenemia in terms of HBcAg or HBeAg deposition in kidney. Immunopathological studies showed granular deposition of HBV antigens in exactly the same pattern as that of Ig(s) and complement components, and the characteristics of HBV deposition in the kidney were closely correlated with the extent of immune deposits. We conclude that the deposition of HBV-associated antigens in the kidney is often non-specific, although HBsAg is more commonly seen in some HBsAg carriers with GN.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2517066 TI - Pathogenetic role of anti-vascular endothelial cell antibodies in systemic lupus erythematosus. AB - In order to study the relationship between vascular endothelial cell (VEC) antigen system and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), including lupus nephritis, Terasaki's microcytotoxicity test and indirect immunofluorescence were used to detect anti-VEC antibody. VEC was identified by electron microscopy. Sera of 21 SLE patients and of 100 healthy donors were examined. Among the 21 SLE patients evaluated, 17 had kidney injury and 13 were in active stage SLE. Results showed that anti-VEC antibody was found in 76.2% of 21 SLE patients, while only 1% of the controls were positive (P less than 0.05). This antibody was detected in 84.6% of patients in active stage SLE and in 62.5% of patients in inactive stage (P greater than 0.05). In patients with and without kidney injury, it was detected in 82.4% and 50%, respectively (P greater than 0.05). These data show that anti-VEC antibody does exist in the sera of SLE patients, the presence of which is closely related to SLE onset and is independent of whether the patient is in active stage of SLE or has kidney injury. In summary, our data suggest that anti-VEC antibody may be one of the triggering factors in the vasculitis of SLE. It is proposed that renal VEC may act as a target cell which can be attacked by anti-VEC antibody to constitute an in-situ immune complex formation in the kidney, leading to lupus nephritis. PMID- 2517067 TI - Non-IgA mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis. Clinical and pathological analysis of 77 cases. AB - Primary mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis without IgA deposition (non IgA MsPGN) is one of the most common types of glomerular disease in China. In an attempt to investigate its clinical and pathological features, we reviewed 77 such cases from 380 patients with primary glomerulonephritis taken renal biopsies during 1980-1987. Prodromal upper respiratory tract infection occurred in 31 cases (40%). In immunofluorescence microscopy, prominent IgG granular deposits in mesangium were observed in 45 cases (58%). These features are quite different from those in western countries, indicating it might have different pathogenetic processes. According to the severity of mesangial lesions, the 77 cases were divided into 3 groups: mild (55 cases), moderate (14) and severe (8). In the patients with mild mesangial lesion and massive proteinuria, the therapeutic response to prednisone was similar to that in adult minimal change disease. In the moderate and severe groups, there was a significantly higher incidence of superimposed tubulo-interstitial lesions associated with hypertension, persistent renal insufficiency and a poor response to prednisone. This work showed non-IgA MsPGN covered about 20% of our primary glomerulopathy, which may be related to a higher incidence of infection. It was suggested that minimal change nephrotic syndrome, inspite of the variety of immunoglobulin mesangium deposits, could be treated as a single disease entity, and light microscopy is most important in offering prognostic information. PMID- 2517068 TI - Study on immunopathogenesis of minimal change nephropathy. Effects of mitogens activated lymphocytes on glomerular polyanions in vitro. AB - Rat spleen lymphocytes (RSL) stimulated by mitogens in vitro were cultured on cryostat sections of rat kidney. After 36 hours glomerular polyanions (GPA) were stained with colloidal iron (CI). The results showed that the RSL stimulated with Con A were able to reduce GPA stainability as that treated with neuraminidase solution, and the effect was dose-dependent on Con A, whereas the supernatant of lymphocytes induced with Con A and the lymphocytes induced with PHA were not able to reduce GPA stainability. The result is in favor of the recent concept that the pathogenesis of MCN is associated with the loss of GPA which results from the dysfunction of the subpopulation of T lymphocytes. PMID- 2517069 TI - Value of angina pectoris after myocardial infarction in predicting extent of coronary artery disease. AB - Clinical, hemodynamic, and angiographic data were examined in 53 patients who underwent catheterization within 6 months of documented acute transmural myocardial infarction (MI). The patients were divided into two groups on the basis of presence (23 patients, group I) or absence (30 patients, group II) of angina pectoris 1 month after MI. Group I patients had more severe coronary artery disease and a greater prevalence of multivessel disease than group II patients. Partial preservation of segmental left ventricular wall function in group I was related to the presence of collateral vessels. In patients with single vessel disease, incidence of spontaneous recanalization of the infarct related artery was more common in group I as compared with those in group II. It is concluded that angina pectoris after MI suggests multivessel disease or infarct-related artery recanalization. Coronary angiography may be advised in these patients in order to select adequate therapeutic interventions and improve prognosis. PMID- 2517070 TI - Immunologic changes in children with Henoch-Schonlein purpura in the acute stage. AB - T-lymphocyte subsets, B-lymphocyte, immunoglobulins and complement were studied in 38 children with Henoch Schonlein Purpura (HSP) in the acute stage. They had significantly lower CD3 percentage and lymphocyte blastogenesis rate, greater CD8 variation coefficient and B-lymphocyte percentage and higher levels immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG, IgM) and complement 3 than the controls. 21 (55%) of them had a low CD8 percentage. The results indicated that children with HSP had low T-lymphocyte percentages and function, increased B-lymphocyte percentage and function, high immunoglobulins, normal or elevated complement. On the other hand, no significant differences were found in the T-lymphocyte subsets values among healthy children aged 7-11 years. The normal values of T cell subsets in 35 normal controls were CD3 66-70%, CD4 37-41%, CD8 28-32%, respectively. PMID- 2517072 TI - Intramedullary pressure in the proximal femur before and after treatment of congenital dislocation of the hip in children. AB - Intramedullary pressure in the proximal femur was measured before and after treatment of congenital dislocation of the hip. The intramedullary pressure before treatment was higher than that of the control group, and after treatment it was lower as a whole; in the close reduction group the pressure decreased as compared with the operation group. In 8 hips, stress test yielded negative results. These findings suggested the characteristics of arterial blockage may be that the potential cause of avascular necrosis of the femoral head after treatment of congenital dislocation of the hip. PMID- 2517071 TI - Microsurgical treatment of brachial plexus irreversible avulsion. AB - A new combined measure of nerve transfer, including antebrachial medial cutaneous nerve, and free musculocutaneous flap transfer was applied to the treatment of irreversible avulsion of the brachial plexus. 12 patients underwent this operation for restoring elbow and finger flexion. Good result was obtained in 71% for elbow and 60% for finger flexion restoration. The definition of irreversible avulsion and the methods, key points and value of the operation are described and discussed in detail. PMID- 2517073 TI - Diagnostic and therapeutic hysteroscopy for traumatic intrauterine adhesion. Clinical analysis of 70 patients. AB - This paper presents the results of diagnostic and therapeutic hysteroscopy in 70 patients with traumatic intrauterine adhesions. In all the patients, the diagnoses and types of intrauterine adhesions were confirmed by hysteroscopy. In 68 out of the 70 patients (97.14%) intrauterine adhesions were released successfully after 1-3 times of surgery. Of the 64 patients with amenorrhea or hypomenorrhea before treatment, 54 (84.38%) had regular menstruation. In 35 patients who desired to have a child and were followed up more than 6 months after the withdrawal of contraception, 30 (85.71%) had intrauterine pregnancies. Among the 30 patients, 17 had full-term pregnancies, 12 were in progress and 1 had early spontaneous abortion. The postpartum course was uneventful in the 17 patients with term delivery. We conclude that hysteroscopy is of value in the diagnosis and treatment of traumatic intrauterine adhesions. PMID- 2517074 TI - CT diagnosis of lacunae. AB - Lacuna, a special small infarction in deep regions of the brain, is difficult to diagnose clinically. Of 182 stroke patients receiving CT scanning, 23 were diagnosed as having lacuna. 34 foci found on CT were distributed in the internal capsule, basal ganglia, thalamus and pons, with diameters varying from 3 to 22 mm. Combined CT and clinical findings showed that motor hemiplegia was present in 12 patients, pure sensory stroke in 1, sensory-motor stroke in 9, and the lock-in syndrome in 1.20 (87%) of the 23 patients partly or completely fulfilled the criteria for the lacuna syndrome. The detection of lacunae depends on the property of instrument, the method of scanning, and the thickness of slice. By showing some minor infarctions, CT has offered the possibility of diagnosis of lacunae. PMID- 2517075 TI - Pathogenesis of extrinsic allergic alveolitis and pulmonary fibrosis induced by streptomyces thermohygroscopicus. AB - There were 48 strains of thermophilic actinomyces isolated from the specimens of mouldy hay and sputum of the patients suffering from farmer's lung (FL). Streptomyces thermohygroscopicus (STHs), one strain of them, was used for this investigation. The microorganisms were injected into the lungs of rabbits and rats by thyrocrico- or tracheocentesis. The results showed that the pathological changes in the lungs including macrophage alveolitis, granuloma formation and diffuse interstitial were similar to that induced by other thermophilic actinomyces. IgG and C3 deposition in the lesions were also observed by immunofluorescence examination. Specific immunocomplexes in the sera of some animals were detected by ELISA with the STH-antisera. The results suggested that STHs was possibly one of the pathogens responsible for FL in China's countryside. PMID- 2517076 TI - Health personnel resources and medical education reform in China. PMID- 2517077 TI - Fibrinolytic activity in coronary heart disease. AB - To evaluate the effects of the fibrinolytic system on the development of coronary heart disease (CHD), the level of released plasminogen activator was measured by venous occlusion in 60 CHD cases, and 20 healthy subjects. The level of plasma basic plasminogen activator activity, plasminogen, fibrinogen and serum fibrin degradation products (FDP) were determined also. In comparison with control subjects, a lower level of released plasminogen activator was found in all CHD patients, being especially marked in those with unstable angina pectoris and acute myocardial infarction. The levels of plasma plasminogen, fibrinogen and FDP were also significantly changed in these patients. In acute myocardial infarction patients, the level of released plasminogen activator was lower in cases complicated with heart failure than in those without. PMID- 2517078 TI - Correlation of selenium, glutathione peroxidase activity and lipoperoxidation rates in dilated cardiomyopathy. AB - The correlations of selenium level and glutathione peroxidase activity in blood and lipid peroxide concentration in plasma from 24 patients of dilated cardiomyopathy were studied. The results showed that in case of dilated cardiomyopathy, the selenium level and glutathione peroxidase activity were significantly lower (P less than 0.05), while lipid peroxide concentration was significantly higher (P less than 0.01) than those of healthy controls. Therefore, it is highly possible that dilated cardiomyopathy is associated with lipoperoxidation damage caused by the deficiency of both selenium and antioxidation ability. PMID- 2517079 TI - Clinicopathological analysis of causes of perinatal death. AB - The perinatal mortality rates and causes of deaths in our hospital within the three 5-year periods (1955-1959, 1976-1980, 1981-1985) were reported as well as the total number of births (16,846), deaths (457), and autopsies (393, autopsy rate 85.9%). The perinatal mortality for the three 5-year periods was 44.5%, 23.8%, and 17.2% respectively; it declined more significantly in 1981-1985 than in 1976-1980. Anoxia was the first cause of death for the three 5-year periods. Other causes in sequence in 1955-1959 were traumatic intracranial hemorrhage and pulmonary diseases, in 1976-1980 malformation and pulmonary diseases, and in 1981 1985 anoxia, pulmonary diseases and hyaline membrane disease. Results suggest that accurate analysis of causes of deaths depends on meticulous systematic fetal and neonatal autopsy, including macerated fetuses, extensive discussion by pathologists, obstetricians and neonatalogists, and indispensable placental examination. PMID- 2517080 TI - Further characterization of Chinese Leishmania isolates by isoenzyme electrophoresis. AB - Ten Chinese Leishmania isolates from different endemic areas and hosts are characterized by isoenzyme electrophoresis for 9 enzymes. Seven were isolated from visceral leishmaniasis patients, one from an infected dog, one from a sandfly and one from a naturally infected racoon dog. Eight of the 10 isolates were indistinguishable in isoenzyme profile from the L infantum reference strain. The isoenzyme profiles of the remaining two isolates (from kala azar patients in Xinjiang) could not be characterized in this study and need further research. PMID- 2517081 TI - Detecting giardia lamblia antigen in fecal matter with counterimmuno electrophoresis in diagnosis of giardiasis. AB - Feces specimens from 35 patients with parasitologically confirmed giardiasis, 41 with acute gastroenteritis, 23 with acute bacillary dysentery, 40 normal persons as well as 15 jirds experimentally infected with Giardia lamblia were used for detecting parasite antigen by counterimmunoelectrophoresis (CIE). It revealed that 33 (94%) of the 35 patients with giardiasis and 14 (93%) of 15 infected jirds were positive, while the other cases, either normal person or normal jird were negative. CIE was also performed in 4 with giardiasis before and after metronidazole treatment. Prior to metronidazole administration, they were all CIE positive, but from the second day on, all became CIE negative. Apparently, detecting giardia antigen in feces specimens by CIE is not only sensitive in detecting current infection but also helpful in evaluating the effects of antigiardia agents on giardiasis. PMID- 2517083 TI - Treatment of acute leukemia with rifampin and low dose harringtonine. Analysis of 14 cases. AB - We evaluate the efficacy of rifampin combined with low dose harringtonine in acute leukemia (Group A, acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) 6 cases and acute non lymphocytic leukemia (ANLL) 8 cases) in comparison with the patients treated with low dose harringtonine only (Group B, 8 ALL, and 5 ANLL). The complete remission (CR) rate in Groups A and B was 64.3% and 23.1%, while the median CR duration, 17 months and 8 months respectively, Group A was more effective than Group B. We also consider that rifampin and low dose harringtonine are more applicable for treatment of ANLL patients without peripheral leukocytosis and those complicated with infection. PMID- 2517082 TI - Sequential observation of clinical and karyotypic evolution in a patient with myelodysplastic syndrome. AB - This paper reports an interesting case of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), whose bone marrow karyotype at diagnosis was 46, XY, t(16;17) (q12;q25). Fourteen months later, the disease transformed into erythroleukemia, and several correlative clones with hyperdiploid appeared at the same time. Thus, we consider that detecting karyotypic evolution may help evaluate the prognosis of MDS. PMID- 2517084 TI - Rigid spine syndrome. Report of 4 cases. AB - Four cases of rigid spine syndrome are reported for the first time in China. They are 2 males and 2 females. One girl has a positive family history. Limitation of flexion of the cervical and dorsolumbar spine, contractures of joints, especially the elbow joints, extreme flattening of the chest and scoliosis are the prominent symptoms of this syndrome. The clinical criteria for this rigid spine syndrome tally with those described by Dubowitz (1965). Symptomatology, diagnosis, differential diagnosis and genetics are discussed. However, the question whether rigid spine syndrome is a single, well defined disease entity remains to be explored. PMID- 2517085 TI - Ten families of ankylosing spondylitis. AB - Twenty-two patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) from 10 families were studied with special attention to their clinical findings, HLA-B27 examinations and family histories. Results showed that HLA-B27 was positive in 19 and negative in 3. The hereditary relationship between ankylosing spondylitis and HLA-B27 in Chinese was similar to that in westerners. We consider that subjective symptoms and clinical findings are essential to early diagnosis of AS, but HLA-B27 examination and family history are supportive. PMID- 2517086 TI - Imaging diagnostic value of myxoma in cardiac chamber. An analysis of 23 cases. AB - Twenty-three patients with myxoma in the cardiac chamber were analysed from their clinical manifestations and imaging diagnoses. All the patients were confirmed pathologically and 22 of them were further confirmed by operation. In this series, 18 patients had the tumors in the left atria, 3 in the right atria, and 2 in the right ventricles. Diagnosing myxoma by CT and two-dimensional echocardiography was evaluated. The results suggest that to diagnose myxoma in the cardiac chamber, CT is as effective as sonography because it can display clear image, precise location and mobility of the tumor with the flowing blood stream in the cardiac chamber, and provide reliable indications for surgery. PMID- 2517087 TI - A posture equilibrometer for the diagnosis of vestibular disease. AB - Since the vestibulospinal level of vestibular function is frequently neglected in the evaluation of vertiginous patients, we developed a new posture equilibrometer for recording body swaying X (left-right) and Y (fore-aft) components of angular displacement, velocity, and acceleration with its transducer on the head of the subject. The data from patients undergoing Romberg test with eyes open and closed, Romberg test with head turned left and right and Mann test were analysed. We conclude that the equilibrometry allows one to evaluate precisely the vestibulospinal function and the sensory interaction. PMID- 2517088 TI - Lunar phases, myocardial infarction and hemorrheological character. A Western medical study combined with appraisal of the related traditional Chinese medical theory. AB - Lunar phases and their connections with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and hemorrheological character (HCh) are studied with the lunar calendar (LC) instead of the solar calendar. AMI onset is maximal on the 1st day of the LC month, decreasing with an obvious trough around the 15th day. After the 15th day, occurrence increases gradually. The end and beginning of the lunar months show sharp peaks of AMI incidence. This study shows also that HCh variations have similar LC monthly rhythms. Our investigation demonstrates the correctness of traditional Chinese medical theory. This monthly rhythm forecasts the onset of AMI peaks and contributes to the secondary prevention of coronary heart disease (CHD). PMID- 2517090 TI - [Clinical observation of osteoradionecrosis (ORN) of the jaw]. AB - Clinical observations and investigations on 48 patients treated in a 15-year period were presented. From the studying results of radionuclide scintigraphic examination we raised a new opinion that the bone in diseased area had its rich blood supply and presented an active metabolism during certain stage. Findings from clinical and radiological examinations indicated that the teeth factors in pathogenesis of ORN had no special significance. Our patients received mainly the supervoltage or megavoltage radiotherapy, so that the symptoms and clinical manifestations were milder than those seen previously. The treatment results of all cases suggest that mandibular resection be the best treatment method for ORN and hyperbaric oxygen therapy has no obvious effects. PMID- 2517091 TI - [The properties of dentin and resinified dentin in the tensile test]. AB - The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of resinifying therapy to the hard tissue of tooth by using measurement of the tensile strength. The fresh extracted maxillary anterior teeth having been cleaned and sterilized were divided into two groups. The control group was placed into 9% N-saline solution of 37 +/- 1 degrees C. The experimental group was treated with resinifying therapy. The tensile specimens were shaped by turning in a lathe until it satisfied the tensile test requirement of Mechanics of Materials except that they were hollow. A set of special split jig was made for this test. Instron Universal Testing Machine was used for measuring the load on the specimens. The loading speed was 0.05 mm/min. The straining meter was used to measure the tensile strain. The result revealed that tensile strength of resinifying dentin was little lower than that of unresinified dentin. The resinified dentin didn't increases stiffness or brittleness. PMID- 2517092 TI - [The diagnostic significance of isoantigens ABH in oral leukoplakia]. AB - The ABH blood group isoantigens on the cell membrane of leukoplakia (LK) and normal oral tissue, squamous cell carcinoma and hyperkeratosis (HK) as controls were observed in this study and the results showed that there was a significant difference of the antigens in LK from those in normal tissue and HK, whereas, no significant difference between LK and carcinoma. Furthermore, the loss of antigens was in direct proportion with severity of dysplasia. The HRP-WGA technique was used to detect the WGA receptor on the cell membrane of LK, normal tissue and carcinoma. It was found that the receptor was present in the normal tissue, but decreased obviously and even disappeared in carcinoma. It should be emphasized that the receptor in LK also had some changes. Our findings show that when in mild dysplasia, it is possible to provide a clue to determine whether the dysplasia can be reversible through observation of the change of ABH antigens. PMID- 2517093 TI - [Intercepted orthopedic treatment of skeletal maxillary protrusion deformity]. AB - Maxillary protrusion deformity may be divided into three types: functional, skeletal and their combination. The diagnosis of which should be differentiated carefully. The treatment of skeletal maxillary protrusion is very difficult. It must be diagnosed in the growing stage of children and treated with intercepted orthopedic appliance in time. In order to bring the mandible into harmony with maxilla, the growth of maxilla should be inhibited while the mandible is stimulated. In this article an efficient orthopedic appliance using orthopedic force to inhibit the growth of maxilla was introduced. The factors which influenced the orthopedic effect were introduced by cases report. The use of the roentgenography cephalometric in diagnosing the maxillary protrusion deformity was discussed. PMID- 2517089 TI - A 22-year-old woman with palpitation, shortness of breath and cough for five months and aggravation of symptoms for four days. PMID- 2517094 TI - [An experimental study on ceramic xenogenic bone in reconstructing defects of the mandible in rabbits]. AB - In the experiment, fresh bovine bone was chemically defatted and deproteinized, and sintered by high temperature (which is called ceramic bovine bone). The ceramic bovine bone was implanted in the artificial defects of mandibles of 25 rabbits. Observing by X-ray, histology, tetracycline and calcein yellow-green fluorescence double labelling and scanning electric-microscope, we proved that the ceramic bovine bone possessed good bone affinity, promoting new bone calcification, no immunogenic reaction, and was not absorbed within three months. It is a good bone graft material which may be used in clinic. PMID- 2517095 TI - [The microflora of enamel and cemental caries]. PMID- 2517096 TI - [Prevention of mercury vapor contamination resulting from scraps of silver amalgam and the remainder of mercury]. AB - Silver amalgam is applied in large amount in clinical practice, which will result in mercury vapour contamination of the stomatological environment. It is important to dispose properly of the scraps of silver amalgam and the remaining mercury, in order to reduce mercury vapour. This experiment shows that X-ray fixer solution is apparently more effective than water in preventing the escape of mercury vapour. Furthermore, such solution is available in hospitals and the used solution can also be utilized. The proper storage of silver amalgam scraps and the remaining mercury in X-ray fixer solution is apparently more effective than water in preventing the escape of mercury vapour. Furthermore, such solution is available in hospitals and the used solution can also be utilized. The proper storage of silver amalgam scraps and the remaining mercury in X-ray fixer solution will help to reduce the level of mercury vapour contamination of the stomatological environment. PMID- 2517097 TI - [Clinical application of triple-loop spring appliances]. PMID- 2517098 TI - [The blocking effect of topically subepithelial injected thioproline on experimental oral premalignant lesions]. AB - The purpose of this study is to observe the blocking effect of topically subepithelial injected drug on chemically induced oral precancerous lesion and to prove, on a certain extent, the hypothesis that subepithelial connective tissue could exert great influence on the differentiation of the epithelium. A total of 97 syrian hamster was used as experimental animal. Both buccal pouches of all animals were painted thrice weekly with 0.5% DMBA in acetone for 6 weeks. They were divided into two groups: control group and blocking group. In those animals which received topical injected thioproline for 6 weeks, 45.5% precancerous lesions turned into normal epithelial tissue, whereas those untreated animals developed carcinoma by 100%. The result of experimental study supports the hypothesis that the eventual fate of premalignant epithelium may be determined by effect that the underlying connective tissue is able to exert on it. PMID- 2517099 TI - [Long-term results of the treatment of mandibular condyle fracture]. AB - Long-term result of conservative and surgical treatment of varying types of mandibular condyle fracture in 34 cases was investigated. The study shows that 90% cases of condyle fracture, including that complicated with dislocation and displacement, could be successfully treated with simple immobilization by intermaxillary elastic bands. The long-term result of close reduction is closely related to the interval between the trauma and the start of treatment, the earlier the beginning of the treatment, the better the result. The unfavourable immediate result in form of imperfect occlusion and excursion, etc. could be corrected by forced mandibular movement. 10 cases complicated with badly dislocation or communicated fracture were treated with condylectomy, satisfactory results were achieved in 80% of them. PMID- 2517100 TI - [A study of the stability of fixation in mandibular fracture using various materials and methods]. PMID- 2517101 TI - [A study of endodontic therapy with and without enlargement of the root canal space on periapical lesion healing]. PMID- 2517102 TI - [Review of the treatment of 5247 cases of maxillofacial wounds]. PMID- 2517103 TI - [Electron microscopic study of the labial salivary gland in Sjogren's syndrome]. PMID- 2517104 TI - [An epidemiologic study of temporomandibular joint dysfunction in young people]. PMID- 2517105 TI - [A variety of microorganism species at the burn ward]. AB - From 1975 to 1987, 965 exudate cultures of burn wounds were done in 553 cases. 1205 colonies (28 species) of microorganisms were separated out from these patients. Among 1205 colonies, 1050 colonies (87.13%) were "common microorganism" included P. aeruginosa, E. coli, S. aureus, and P. vulgaris. There were mixed infection of P. aeruginosa and E. coli in 23.66-25.95% cases. In early stage P. aeruginosa (23.25%) was predominant and in late stage, S. aureus was predominant. The sensitivity of microorganisms to 18 kinds of antibiotics gradually decreased, year by year. The authors consider that reasonable use of antibiotics, early eschar excision and skin grafting play an important role in decreasing the occurrence of drug-fast bacteria and preventing cross infection. PMID- 2517106 TI - Development of the glucuronyltransferase and sulphotransferase towards 2-naphthol in human fetus. AB - The activity of the microsomal glucuronyltransferase (GT) was measured in 34 fetal and 27 adult human livers with 2-naphthol as substrate. The average (+/- SD) enzyme activity was 0.07 +/- 0.07 nmol/min/mg protein (fetal) and 7.98 +/- 4.19 nmol/min/mg protein (adult) livers. The adult to fetal ratio of the GT activity was 114. The activity of the cytosolic sulphotransferase (ST) was measured with 2-naphthol as substrate in 30 fetal and 23 adult livers. ST activity (mean +/- SD) was 0.18 +/- 0.12 nmol/min/mg protein (fetal) and 0.63 +/- 0.22 nmol/min/mg protein (adult). The adult to fetal ratio of the ST activity was 3.5. The postnatal development of GT is more marked than that of ST. In the fetal livers, the rate of 2-naphthol sulfation correlated (p less than 0.01) with the rate of 2-naphthol glucuronidation, whereas they did not correlate in the adult livers. No relationship was observed between the activity of the GT or ST and gestational age. The correlation existing between ST and GT in human fetus might suggest that the two enzymes are under a common developmental pattern which seems to be independent of gestational age. The activity of the GT with morphine as substrate was measured in 25 fetal and 29 adult livers and found to be 0.23 +/- 0.20 nmol/min/mg protein (fetal) and 1.85 +/- 0.98 nmol/min/mg protein (adult). Thus, the adult to fetal ratio of morphine glucuronidation was 8.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2517107 TI - High dietary fat feeding during perinatal development of rats alters hepatic drug metabolism of progeny. AB - The objective of this study was to determine whether feeding high dietary fat, during pregnancy and lactation of Sprague-Dawley rats, can modulate hepatic drug metabolizing enzymes of the offspring during postnatal development. Time-pregnant rats were pair-fed isocalorically 20% (experimental) or 5% (control) corn oil diets from day 10 of gestation until weaning. After weaning, litters from both groups were fed 5% corn oil diet until sacrificed. Offsprings were sacrificed at weaning (23 days), puberty (45 days) and at adult stage (100 days). Feeding diet containing 20% corn oil to dams, resulted in significant increases in liver microsomal cytochrome P-450, b5 contents and aminopyrine N-demethylase activity of the male offspring at weaning, puberty and adult stage of life. A similar but less marked trend was also observed in the female offspring. Thus, it appears that the high dietary fat exposure during perinatal development may result in significant alterations in hepatic drug-metabolizing enzyme activities of the progeny. PMID- 2517109 TI - [The role of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase in the nerve tissue]. PMID- 2517108 TI - [Dynamics of protein-protein interaction in a monoxygenase enzyme system reconstructed in liposomes of various phospholipid composition]. PMID- 2517110 TI - [Cermet cements for milk tooth fillings. Preliminary results]. AB - 106 Ketac-Silver fillings in deciduous molars were reevaluated after 1 to 3.3 years, i.e. 25 month on the average. About 90% of 50 occlusal fillings and about 84% of 56 multisurface restorations were unchanged. Without claiming statistical evidence for their conclusiveness, we consider these results as an indication that cermet cements are a useful alternative to amalgam fillings in deciduous teeth, particularly since the life of these fillings is limited to the time until the milk tooth is physiologically lost. PMID- 2517111 TI - [Comparative studies on fissure sealing: composite versus Cermet cement]. AB - Fifty two molars sealed with either composite or Cermet cement were compared. The composite sealant was applied after enamel etching using a rubber dam. Before sealing with Cermet cement the enamel was only cleaned with pumice powder and sodium hypochlorie and the material was applied without enamel etching. After an average follow-up of 1.6 years composite sealants proved to be significantly more reliable. Cermet cement sealings showed defects more frequently. PMID- 2517112 TI - Catalytic activity of administered gulonolactone oxidase polyethylene glycol conjugates. AB - Scurvy in guinea pigs provides a convenient model of inborn metabolic disease for the investigation of enzyme therapy protocols. Gulonolactone oxidase, the enzyme in ascorbic acid biosynthesis that is missing from the scurvy-prone species, was modified by attachment of polyethylene glycol. The catalytic properties of this enzyme were affected little by the modification. Intravenous injection of this modified form of the enzyme elicited ascorbic acid synthesis in a dose-dependent manner. The modified enzyme was stabilized to incubation at 37 degrees C but was not protected from inactivation by trypsin. The circulating half-life of enzyme activity was not prolonged by this modification. Further, attachment of polyethylene glycol did neither abolish the enzyme's ability to react with preformed antibodies nor eliminate its immunogenicity. PMID- 2517113 TI - Inhibition of rat lens aldose reductase by bendazac-L-lysine salt. AB - Authors describe the in vitro effect of bendazac-L-lysine salt on the activity of enzyme aldose reductase from rat lens. In the presence of bendazac the activity of the tested enzyme was inhibited. Lineweaver-Burk plot demonstrated that the inhibition was noncompetitive. The possible curative effects on diabetic cataract together with a better way of administration are pointed out. PMID- 2517114 TI - Effect of cromakalim on smooth muscle cells of guinea-pig taenia caeci. AB - Cromakalim caused hyperpolarization and reduction of the electrotonic potential in a concentration-dependent manner in smooth muscle cells of guinea-pig taenia caeci. There was a relatively constant change in the electrotonic potential under calcium-free, low-sodium and low-chloride conditions in the presence of cromakalim as compared to control conditions with Krebs solutiuon. The effect of cromakalin (10(-5) M) was inhibited by glibenclamide (5 X 10(-5) M). These results indicate that cromakalim specifically promotes potassium efflux in smooth muscle cells of the guinea-pig taenia caeci via glibenclamide-sensitive potassium channels, to cause hyperpolarization, suppression of spike activity and relaxation. PMID- 2517116 TI - Effect of sustained hyperglycemia on GHRH induced GH secretion in man. AB - Effect of sustained and severe hyperglycemia (greater than 200 mg/dl) on GHRH induced GH secretion was studied in 9 healthy volunteers who received GHRH (1 microgram/kg/BW, iv) during either saline or dextrose infusions which were started 2 hours before testing. During the latter, plasma glucose concentration plateaued at 303 mg/dl +/- 82 (mean +/- SD, range 200-450 mg/dl). Hyperglycemia resulted in a 57% decrease of peak plasma GH concentration: 9.3 +/- 4 vs 21.8 +/- 12 ng/ml (P less than 0.05). Two subjects had no change in GHRH induced plasma GH rise during hyperglycemia. No correlation was found between plasma glucose or insulin concentrations and percentage change in GHRH induced GH secretion. These data suggest that: 1) inhibition by hyperglycemia of GHRH induced GH secretion in non-diabetic subjects is neigter complete nor constant; 2) plasma glucose levels cannot predict the magnitude of the inhibition. PMID- 2517115 TI - The pituitary-testicular axis in non-professional soccer players. AB - In European countries, football is one of the most popular forms of physical exercise. However, the possibility that endocrine changes can arise in football players has not been investigated completely. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of a training program and the consequences of a football match on the pituitary-testicular axis in ten trained non-professional soccer players. Basal levels of LH, FSH, PRL and T, as well as LH, FSH and PRL responses to an iv bolus of GnRH (0.1 mg) plus TRH (0.2 mg), were measured in each subject. The endocrine evaluation was performed before the beginning of the seasonal training (after a 30 days rest period), and repeated on 2 consecutive days at the end of a 3 months regular training program, 14-15 h from the end of both a customary 3 h training session and a 90 min strenuous soccer match. In 5 out of the 10 athletes a semen analysis was performed after each endocrine evaluation. Ten age-matched, healthy, sedentary men served as a control group. Basal serum levels of LH (10.4 +/- 1.3 mIU/ml), FSH (8.7 +/- 1.1 mIU/ml), PRL (9.7 +/- 1.6 ng/ml) and T (6.3 +/- 0.9 ng/ml) measured in the soccer players before the beginning of the seasonal training were similar to those found in the control subjects (LH = 9.2 +/- 1.7 mIU/ml, FSH = 8.5 +/- 1.4 mIU/ml, PRL = 8.8 +/ 1.8 ng/ml, T = 6.4 +/- 1.1 ng/ml).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2517117 TI - Hypergravity and ageing in Drosophila melanogaster. 1. Fecundity. AB - In Drosophila melanogaster daily fecundity has been recorded throughout life of flies kept at various gravity levels (1-5 g). Hypergravity (HG) did not decrease total fecundity but modified its expression during life. The 1 g group could be opposed to the various HG groups, i.e. a clear regression of the various fecundity items on the HG level could not be disclosed. Results are discussed in relation with Pearl's rate of living theory. PMID- 2517118 TI - Hypergravity and ageing in Drosophila melanogaster. 2. Longevity. AB - Longevity of Drosophila melanogaster flies was observed at various gravity levels in three different breeding conditions of decreasing quality. A slight longevity decrease was observed in the 1-4 g range of the two best conditions. In the third one, a large decrease was observed in all hypergravity groups. Longevity decreased at 5 g in the first two groups (no data collected for the third one). Results are discussed in relation with Pearl's rate-of-living theory. PMID- 2517119 TI - Hypergravity and ageing in Drosophila melanogaster. 3. Viability. AB - The viability of Drosophila melanogaster was measured in three conditions: (1) of eggs from parents living at different gravity levels (1-5 g), developed at 1 g; (2) of eggs from parents living at 1 g, developed at different gravity levels, and (3) of eggs developed at the gravity at which their parents were kept. Hypergravity (HG) decreased viability to a low extent in all three cases (75% of emergence in the worst case). The effects of keeping parent flies in HG and of growing their offspring in HG were not cumulative. The results are discussed in relation with Pearl's rate of living theory. PMID- 2517120 TI - Heavy metal resistance in clinical isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. AB - One hundred clinical isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa were checked for their sensitivity towards silver nitrate. Majority of the isolates were resistant at 20 mg/L and the resistance decreased with increasing concentration of silver nitrate, only 5% of the organisms showed resistance above 70 mg/L. These silver resistant isolates were further checked for their resistance towards mercury and cadmium at 20 mg/L of concentration and the level of resistance was found to be 33 and 40%, respectively. A correlation between silver ion resistance and concurrent mercury and cadmium ion resistance was observed, suggesting a possible linkage between resistance towards various metal ions. PMID- 2517121 TI - [Quantitation of human serum apolipoprotein CII by radial immunodiffusion assay]. AB - A radial immunodiffusion assay (RID) for quantitation of human serum apolipoprotein CII (apoCII) was developed. Antiserum to apoCII was raised in goats with purified apoCII. The antibody-gel plate was prepared with 1% agarose. 5 microliters of each sample or standard serum was added in a well. Diffusion was performed at 25 degrees C or 37 degrees C for 48 h. The standard curve with a working range of 0.8-4.5 mg/dl was plotted. The minimum measurable concentration of apoCII was 40 ng. The intra-assay and inter-assay CV were 1.4-3.5% and 1.3 3.6% respectively. The recovery of the assay was 92.38-104.35%. The concentrations of apoCII for healthy adults and patients with hyperlipidemia were 3.9 +/- 1.7 mg/dl (M +/- SD, n = 67) and 5.9 +/- 2.5 mg/dl (n = 43) respectively. PMID- 2517122 TI - [Quantitative study of airborne fungi at three functional sections of Chengdu city]. AB - Airborne fungi are considered as one of the important causes of allergies throughout the world. The climatic conditions of Chengdu are suitable for the breeding of molds. We conducted monthly a quantitative investigation of the airborne fungi at three functional sections of Chengdu city from January to December, 1987. The results indicated that the concentration of fungal spores in the air was high through the year. The range of the concentrations of the airborne fungi was 870.37-7592.59 spores/m3, with two peaks in April and October. The first six dominant airborne fungi were yeast, Cladosporium, Penicillium, Aspergillus, Aureobasidium and Non-sporulating. Of Aspergillus flavus strains detected by fluorescence of agar medium under ultraviolet light 33.49% were aflatoxin-producing. The data show that the climatic and environment factors can affect the spread of airborne fungal spores in the air. The results of previous studies and present surveys are compared and the offence of airborne fungi and the significance of this survey are also discussed in this paper. PMID- 2517123 TI - [Defocused CO2 laser in the treatment of leg ulcers. Preliminary results]. AB - We studied the therapeutic action of CO2 Laser on leg ulcers due to chronic venous hypertension in 30 subjects. Our findings show good results in reducing pain and leg oedema and wound healing. PMID- 2517124 TI - Bronchiolitis like presentation of Branhamella catarrhalis bronchopulmonary infection. PMID- 2517126 TI - [Does the ideal dental sterilizer exist]. AB - Heat sterilization is still the best known method to sterilize all dental instruments. No compromise is acceptable. The use of the so-called cold sterilizing solutions is only palliative. Glutaraldehyde and chlorine compounds seem to possess some sterilizing properties, but these solutions are recognized as being toxic, allergenic and probably carcinogenic. The use of two (2) or more sterilizers may be the ideal method to sterilize the metal, plastic and rubber materials... There are many practical sterilization systems on the market today. An intensive evaluation of these systems is necessary before one is used in a dental office and subsequently an annual reevaluation is suggested. The regular use of physical, chemical and especially biological indicators is the only sure way to control the many failures associated with sterilizers. The choice of equipment is directly related to the total aseptic protocol to be implemented. The objective of this article is to review and clarify certain ideas and controversies associated with this subject matter. PMID- 2517127 TI - Modulation of antitumor activity of grifolan by subsequent administration of (1-- -3)-beta-D-glucanase in vivo. AB - The initiation process of effector mechanism of the antitumor activity of (1--- 3)-beta-D-glucans has been examined in detail by applying treatment of mice with (1----3)-beta-D-glucanase, kitalase (KIT) and zymolyase (ZYM), via i.p. route after i.p. administration of (1----3)-beta-D-glucans, grifolan (GRN) and CM curdlan (CM-CUD). A significant decrease of antitumor activity caused by GRN was observed by treatment with KIT within 48 h, and that caused by GRN administered via i.v. route was also reduced by the i.v. injection of KIT, although it was less effective than i.p. treatment. Pretreatment of mice with thioglycollate reduced the period of time to abrogate antitumor activity by the sequential treatment of KIT. Similar results were also observed on ZYM treatment after i.p. treatment of CM-CUD. These facts suggest that the period of manifestation of the antitumor activity by (1----3)-beta-D-glucans must be longer than a few days. PMID- 2517125 TI - Impaired T-cell activation in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. AB - Interleukin-2 (IL-2) production was studied in T lymphocytes from 32 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and 27 healthy volunteers. The IL-2 production by phytohemagglutinin (PHA)-stimulated cells from SLE patients was significantly depressed compared to control values, with a correlation between degree of depression and disease activity. The depressed IL-2 production by SLE T cells are largely reversed by the addition of either phorbol ester (PMA) or partially by a calcium ionophore. SLE T cells had significantly lower peak increases in intracellular free calcium [( Ca2+]i) than controls after stimulation by PHA or by a monoclonal antibody against the CD3 antigen. This abnormality was found even in T cells from patients with mild disease activity or in those whose T cells produced normal amounts of IL-2. Calcium ionophore produced similar increases in [Ca2+]i in SLE patients as in normals. These results suggest that a major component of the defect responsible for decreased IL 2 production by SLE lymphocytes is proximal to protein kinase C activation and may involve impaired signal transduction after activation of the antigen receptor complex. PMID- 2517128 TI - Decrease in sensitivity to ethidium bromide by caffeine, dimethylsulfoxide or 3 aminobenzamide due to reduced permeability. AB - The sensitivity of Chinese hamster ovary cells to ethidium bromide, a deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)-intercalating cationic dye, was reduced in the presence of caffeine, dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) or 3-aminobenzamide (3AB). As drug resistance is frequently attained by decreased permeability of the drug, the effects of caffeine, DMSO and 3 AB on the intracellular accumulation of ethidium were examined. These chemicals were found to decrease the intracellular dose of ethidium via their suppressing effects on the dye uptake with no effect on the efflux. The dye uptake was also suppressed by ouabain and K+, suggesting that ethidium was taken up by the K+ transport system. Although the exact mechanism implicated in the inhibitory effects of caffeine. DMSO and 3AB on the dye uptake is not yet clear, these chemicals may interfere with this transport system. The rate of decrease in intracellular dose caused by caffeine, DMSO and 3 AB correlated well with that of the reduction in respective cellular sensitivity. This strongly suggests that the decrease in intracellular dye dose in the presence of these chemicals is mainly responsible for the reduced sensitivity. Caffeine, DMSO and 3 AB caused a decrease in the binding of ethidium to DNA in vitro. The release of ethidium from DNA molecules may lessen DNA damage, thereby contributing to the reduction in cellular sensitivity to ethidium. However, correlation between inhibitory effects of these chemicals on the dye binding and those on cellular sensitivity is not as good as that between the uptake and the sensitivity. This indicates that effects on dye binding to DNA may not be a major reason for the reduction of cellular sensitivity to ethidium. PMID- 2517129 TI - Paracellular channel characterized by non-electrolyte permeation through the colonic membrane of the rat. AB - The mucosa-to-serosa permeability of non-electrolytes through the stripped colonic rat mucosa was examined in a Ussing-type chamber. The permeation clearances for inulin (12-15 A radius) to erythritol (3.2 A radius) increased linearly with the increase in their free diffusion coefficients. On the other hand, the clearances of glycerol, thiourea and urea of less than 3 A radius increased in excess of what would be expected considering the above linearity. This suggests that there are large pores that do not restrict diffusive flow and small pores of 3 A radius or greater that restricted diffusion in the paracellular channel. The transcellular permeation also occurred in a tracer efflux experiment with urea preloaded in colonic stripped mucosa. It was not ruled out that the higher permeability of the nonelectrolytes less than 3 A in radius was due to a transcellular route in parallel with the paracellular one. PMID- 2517130 TI - Immunohistochemical localization of vascular endothelial cell factor VIII/von Willebrand factor antigen in human normal and disordered gastric tissues. AB - Vascular endothelial cell factor VIII/von Willebrand factor antigen (FVIII/vWF Ag) of normal and disordered gastric tissues was studied with staphylococcus protein A-gold (PAG) labelling followed by photochemical silver reaction. FVIII/vWF Ag was localized clearly in the tissue fixed with various common fixatives and embedded in paraffin without enzyme treatment. The most satisfactory staining and the least nonspecific background were observed in the tissues fixed with Zamboni's and Bouin's solutions. The staining reaction could be enhanced, if the sections were pretreated with trypsin and subtilisin. Under the electron microscope, the gold particles were found over the Weibel-Palade bodies of vascular endothelial cells in the tissues fixed either in Zamboni's solution or in Zamboni's solution-osmium tetroxide, and embedded either with Lowicryl K4M or with Epon 812. It has been proved to be a better technique in investigation of FVIII/vWF Ag in vascular endothelial cells. PMID- 2517131 TI - [The role of lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase metabolites in acute hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction in piglets]. AB - The role of lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase metabolites in acute hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction (HPV) was studied in piglets. It has been found that acute alveolar hypoxia induced remarkable pulmonary vasoconstriction, associated with an increase in cardiac output. The hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction response was insignificantly attenuated after infusion of DEC. Indomethacin potentiated markedly the increase in pulmonary artery pressure and pulmonary vascular resistance and thus augmented HPV. It is inferred that hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction in piglet may be mediated by other important mediators in addition to leukotrienes, but modulated by prostaglandins to prevent an excessive rise in pulmonary artery pressure. PMID- 2517133 TI - [Questions and answers in pediatric care. Innovation in the daily activities of a 4-year-old child with IVH]. PMID- 2517132 TI - Effect of intracerebroventricular injection of thyrotropin-releasing hormone on the nociceptive discharges in mesencephalic reticular formation in the rat. AB - Extracellular recording method was used to examine the effect of thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH) on 71 unit discharges of pain-excited neurons (PEN) in mesencephalic reticular formation (MRF) in 58 rats. Intracerebroventricular (icv) injection of TRH (10 micrograms/10 micrograms) produced significant decrease of pain discharge rate of PEN. TRH potentiated the inhibitory effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on nociceptive discharges when application of EA at bilateral "Zusanli" was coupled with icv injection of TRH. Both of these inhibiting effects of TRH were completely offset or strikingly decreased by icv preinjection of the cholinergic M-receptor blocker atropine. The results mentioned above and the mechanism of the inhibitory effect of TRH on pain discharges were discussed in this paper. PMID- 2517134 TI - [Indications for home oxygen therapy in cases of sleep oxygen desaturation]. AB - Home oxygen therapy is now considered indicated in cases of severe sleep oxygen desaturation. To explore whether we could choose cases with severe sleep desaturation by measurement of waking physiological parameters, we examined the relationship between arterial blood gases, lung functions and pulmonary artery pressure while awake and the degree of sleep oxygen desaturation in 21 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and 22 cases with a past history of pulmonary tuberculosis. There were significant correlations between waking PaO2, PaCO2 and pulmonary artery mean pressure and sleep lowest SaO2, respectively, whereas no significant relation was found between %VC or FEV1.0% and sleep lowest SaO2. However, we found wide ranges of PaO2 and PaCO2 in cases who had 10 min or more with SaO2 below 85% during sleep. This was also true in the patients who underwent 60 min or more with SaO2 below 85% while a sleep. These results suggest that it may be difficult to find out the indications for cases with severe sleep desaturation by evaluation of arterial blood gases while awake. PMID- 2517135 TI - The origin of the rotation of one end of a cell relative to the other end during growth of gram-positive rods. AB - The Gram-positive rod wall elongates by an inside-to-outside mechanism of linking new peptidoglycan on the inside and the cracking, by autolysis, of old wall on the outside. During this process the peptidoglycan experiences stress in different directions in different levels of the wall. The stress that develops in a rod-shaped cell if the wall was uniform in physical properties throughout its thickness is twice as great in the hoop direction as in the axial direction. This leads to splitting in the direction of the longitudinal axis. However, the older, partially split, more peripheral wall is stressed in the direction of the elongating cell axis and thus favors circumferential cracks. It is suggested that these processes combine to form a system of helical cracks, grooves, or crevasses. The stable system of grooves would have the same handedness, fairly constant pitch and elongate as the cell grows. Their continuing development would result in the rotation of one end of the cell relative to the other even in cells with no spiral or apparent helical character. Such rotation has been experimentally observed with Bacillus subtilis. The proposed mechanism for rotation during growth may account, in part, for the formation of helical coils of bundles of filamentous organisms (macrofibers), the morphology of spirilla and vibroids, and for the shapes of some mutant and some antibiotic-treated organisms. Rotation due to generation of helical cracks as the result of the biophysics of the growth process as proposed here, is an alternative to the proposal by Mendelson (1976, Helical growth of Bacillus subtilis: a new model for cell growth. Proc. natn. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 73, 1740-1744) that rotation is due to the laying down of nascent peptidoglycan in a helical pattern. PMID- 2517137 TI - [Poisonings by blue-green algae]. PMID- 2517136 TI - MRI gradient fields increase brain mannitol space. AB - Following nephrectomy and intravenous injection of tritiated mannitol, adult male rats were exposed to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) procedures at 1.5 T, 0.5 T, and 0.3 T. Compared to rats similarly handled but not exposed to MRI procedures, brain mannitol concentration, expressed as a percentage of mean body concentration, was significantly increased at 0.3 T and 0.5 T but not at 1.5 T. At 0.3 T, exposure to gradient-field fluctuations used for imaging increased brain mannitol concentration, but exposures to static main field and pulsed radiofrequency energies did not. Increased brain mannitol associated with gradient-field flux may reflect increased blood-brain barrier permeability or blood volume in brain. MRI effects on brain mannitol space are of uncertain clinical significance, but are consistent with prior evidence of an MRI-induced increase of brain capillary endothelial cell transport observed with horseradish peroxidase. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings and to explore the processes underlying changes in mannitol distribution related to MRI. PMID- 2517138 TI - Trypanosoma cruzi: circulating polysaccharide factors excreted in vitro and in vivo. AB - An antigen factor (EF), thermostable and soluble in trichloroacetic acid was detected in the supernatant fluid of epimastigote cultures of Trypanosoma cruzi and in the sera of patients with acute Chagas disease. An hyperimmune antiserum to this antigenic factor was obtained in rabbits. The EF was revealed on the fibroblast surface membranes of rats infected with trypomastigotes, using the indirect immunofluorescence technique. The presence of EF in the sera of patients with acute Chagas disease as well as in the supernatant of epimastigotes culture at logarithmic phase, leads to its association with a process of parasite proliferation. Being EF a component of the parasite, its origin both in vitro and in vivo could be the result of an excretion-secretion of parasite or simply a result of the parasite's death. It can be postulated that the same as in other protozoic infection, EF could be used by T. cruzi in the process of cell penetration. PMID- 2517139 TI - [Dynamics of the intellectual changes in workers exposed to long-term effect of carbon dioxide]. AB - In workers exposed for many years to carbon disulphide toxic effects of this substance on the central nervous system can be observed. These effects manifest themselves in intellectual function disorders. The aim of the present study was to answer the following questions: a) does the whole period of exposure to CS2 seriously affect a decrease in intellectual efficiency level, b) what is the dynamics of these changes in relation to the exposure duration? For the purpose of a study which included 120 employees of plants producing artificial fibres who were exposed to CS2 for a long time the following techniques were used: Wechsler's Intelligence Scale for Adults, A. L. Benton's Visual Memory Test, T.;. Graham and B. S. Kendall's Memory-for-Design Test and L. Bender's Visual Motor Gestalt Test. The results obtained indicate that: a) rate of decrease in intellectual functions level depends on exposure duration and concerns those workers who had been exposed to CS2 for about 30 years; b) serious disorders are observed in such skills as: acoustic and visual memory, symbolic thinking, ability to plan and anticipate events, graphomotoric functions and mental work rate. PMID- 2517140 TI - Use of the carbon dioxide laser to remove an eyelid hemangioma. PMID- 2517141 TI - Resistance of two strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae to pristinamycin associated with 16-membered macrolides. AB - Two strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae isolated from haemocultures show a phenotype resistance which has never been described within this species. This a is a dissociation between resistance and sensitivity within the macrolides group, associated with global resistance as regards pristinamycin (SA + SB). PMID- 2517142 TI - [Thyroid function in normal aged subjects or with auricular fibrillation]. AB - Free T4, free T3 and TSH before and 30 min after TRH administration have been evaluated in 35 elderly patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), in 35 elderly normal subjects (AN) and compared with results obtained in 36 young men (YN). No significant differences were evidenced between AF and AN, especially no mild hyperthyroidism was discovered in AF. In comparison with YN, there was no alteration of free T4 with age but free T3 is dramatically decreased; concerning TSH, there is a significant decrease before and after TRH in AN males whereas TSH levels in other subgroups are similar to those in YN. PMID- 2517143 TI - [An update on gonadal differentiation]. AB - The Y chromosome plays a determinant role in human maleness. Studies on individuals with sex chromosome abnormalities indicate that a testis determining factor (TDF) is located on the short arm of the Y chromosome. A candidate gene, recently cloned, encodes a protein with multiple "finger" domains of a type known to bind DNA and control transcription. The puzzling finding that on the short arm of the X chromosome is located and homolog gene escaping X inactivation raises problems on the functional relationship of the two genes. The whole of the molecular studies using Y-specific probes have shown that XX males result from the transposition of TDF from the short arm of the Y to that of X chromosome; at least some XY females result from the same transposition, that leaves the Y chromosome without its distal short arm, TDF included. In XO males, the TDF is translocated to an autosome; according to the deletion of the latter, different malformation patterns may be present in these patients. If the presence or the absence of a critical segment of the Y chromosome do explain many instances of sex several, an outstanding problem is still represented by XX hermaphrodites since no Y-specific sequences have been found in their genome. Thus although the Y-chromosome testis- determining factor seems to play a pivotal role in sex determination, testicular tissue can be formed in the absence of it. PMID- 2517144 TI - Effect of heating and fortification with lysine on protein quality of minor millets. AB - The effect of heating and fortification with lysine on the protein quality of five minor millets namely Italian millet (S. Italica), French millet (Panicum miliaceum), Barnyard millet (Echinochloa colona), Kodo millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum) and Little millet (Panicum miliare) was carried out. The N content of the millets ranged from 1.69 to 2.76 per cent. Proximate composition and dietary fibre was estimated. A reduction of 19-25 in TD and increase of 4-18 in BV was observed on auto-claving and both the differences were significant (P less than 0.05) in all millets. However, heat processing did not have a pronounced effect on DE. Fortification with lysine at 0.6 g/100 DM increased both the BV and NPU. Although both heat processing and lysine fortification improved protein utilisation, the effect of fortification was comparatively more than heating. PMID- 2517145 TI - Costs and benefits of joining computer age. PMID- 2517146 TI - [Thrombocytopenia in a patient with hemophilia and HIV infection treated with intravenous immunoglobulin and splenectomy]. AB - In a patient with haemophilia B who had developed immune thrombocytopenia following HIV infection, high doses of intravenous immunoglobulin were administered. The therapy brought about only a temporary rise in platelet counts. No beneficial effects were also obtained during a 3-month treatment with corticosteroids. Since there was no response to the conservative therapy, the patient was splenectomized under the cover of factor IX concentrate and the surgical procedure resulted in a complete remission of the thrombocytopenia. PMID- 2517147 TI - Males in midwifery. PMID- 2517149 TI - Nursing policies of the 3 major political parties. PMID- 2517148 TI - Developments on the pre-registration degree for nurses. PMID- 2517150 TI - The early effects of valproic acid in low doses in liver metabolism. AB - The effect of low doses of valproic acid (VPA), 0.6 mM in arterial blood, in liver metabolism was studied. Twenty four hour fasted rats were infused into the jugular vein with VPA at a dose of 4 mg/kg/min during 50 min. The right carotid artery was also catheterized in order to draw arterial blood samples for determining VPA concentrations and acid-base parameters. After VPA infusion, a tissue sample of liver was obtained and freeze-clamped. VPA did not change the arterial blood acid-base parameters. The liver tissue concentration of pyruvate and alanine increased in VPA group while lactate concentrations did not change. Concentration of glutamine, glutamate, malate, citrate and aspartate in the liver fell significantly. These results suggest that VPA in low doses may modify the hepatic metabolism of the rat in vivo. PMID- 2517151 TI - [Hereditary lysosomal diseases. I. Initial results of a diagnostic program in Mexico]. AB - Results obtained by the Lysosome Storage Disease Diagnostic Program are described as well as the criteria used for the selection of patients to be studied. This program was started in 1983 and is sponsored by the National Reference Center for the Detection and Diagnosis of Inborn Errors of Metabolism in Mexico City. Laboratory tests include chemical determinations of urinary glycosaminoglycans and enzymatic assays of 15 lysosomal enzymes that allow the identification of 25 of the 35 lysosomal storage diseases known. A total of 259 patients with clinical phenotypes suggesting a lysosomal storage disease, and 47 individuals at risk for the carrier state were studied. The disease diagnosed were 35 patients with mucopolysaccharidoses, 27 with sphingolipidoses, 5 with mucolipidoses and 7 with glycogenoses; the most common lysosomal storage disease was Gaucher followed in decreasing frequency by Morquio, Hunter and glycogenoses Ia. The carrier state was confirmed in 29 of close relatives, one of them confirmed prenatally. PMID- 2517152 TI - [Anorexia nervosa: endocrine function during the phases of body weight loss and recovery]. AB - In the present study, we investigated the endocrine status of patients with anorexia nervosa during weight loss (WL), as well as, after weight recovery (WR). A comparison between our findings and those obtained from other populations previously described was made. We studied 12 female patients during WL; 7 of them were reevaluated after WR. Stimulation tests with LRH, TRH, ACTH and insulin induced hypoglycemia were performed in all cases. During the WL phase, basal serum levels of LH and estradiol, as well as the LH response to LRH, were diminished in comparison with normal values. Basal serum levels of FSH were low or normal. The function of the hypothalamic pituitary-ovarian axis was recovered in all patients restudied; six out of seven returned to ovulation within the first 4 months after WR. The remaining patient presented hypothalamic amenorrhea because of excessive physical activity. Four patients exhibited basal low T3 and T4 levels with normal TSH and a retarded response to TRH during WL. At WR some patients completely recovered their thyroid function while others developed clinical hypothyroidism. Six months after WR all patients were euthyroid. Prolactin response to TRH was unaffected in 10 patients. One patient had basal hyperprolactinemia and hyperesponsiveness to TRH, and the remaining one had only a PRL hyperesponsiveness; this latter finding persisted in one of these patients during the WR phase. This abnormality was attributed to changes in the dopaminergic tone secondary to stress. Although serum growth hormone concentrations were normal in all patients during WL, two of them had basal hypersecretion and hyperesponsiveness to hypoglycemia during WR, which was attributed to protein deficiency.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2517153 TI - [Schistosomiasis mansoni in the southwest of the State of Minas Gerais (Brazil)]. AB - A new focus of schistosomiasis mansoni at Passos, a town in the Southwest of the State of Minas Gerais (Brazil), region until now considered free of the disease is reported. Malacological surveys showed Biophalaria glabrata naturally infected with Schistosoma mansoni in a country club near Passos. All B. straminea captured at the pisciculture station of the Furnas hydroelectric dam were negative. Six out of seven individuals living in the country club were found to be infected with S. mansoni, including four children who had never been out of Passos. The epidemiological importance of these findings is discussed. PMID- 2517154 TI - [Evaluation of the effectiveness of Nitro-Mac retard forte in ischemic heart disease]. PMID- 2517155 TI - Isolation of Brucella abortus from experimentally infected dromedary camels in Sudan: a preliminary report. AB - Six camels were experimentally infected with two strains of Brucella abortus, four with S19 and two with a field bovine strain. In all cases antibody titres were detected within 6 to 11 days. Serum agglutination titres peaked between days 11 and 32 and complement fixation titres between days 11 and 52; both titres then declined steadily. No clinical signs were observed in the four camels inoculated with S19. Slight non-specific symptoms were seen in the two camels infected with the field bovine strain. On post mortem examination no gross lesions were observed although histopathological sections showed focal granulomata in the liver and a generalized lymphadenitis. The organism was recovered mainly from the lymph nodes of the head and genital tract. PMID- 2517156 TI - [Beneficial long-term effects of diltiazem on the course of dilated cardiomyopathy]. AB - There is increasing evidence that chronic enhanced exogenic or endogenic catecholamine stimulation in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy may worsen hemodynamics and prognosis. The cause of this may lie in myocellular calcium accumulation and microcirculatory disorders. In a prospective study the calcium antagonist diltiazem was given to 22 patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (60-90 mg t.i.d.) in addition to conventional therapy of digitalis, diuretics, and vasodilators. Twenty-five patients received the conventional therapy and served as historical controls. Eight additional patients who were not originally included in the 25 controls changed over from conventional therapy to adjunctive diltiazem treatment. The patient groups compared were similar in all hemodynamic and anamnestic features. Further, only patients with reduced myofibril volume fraction in the myocardial biopsy were included in the trial, since hemodynamic deterioration could be expected in them. The mean survival rate was 29 months in the controls, while within a mean of 15.4 months no patient died in the diltiazem group (p less than 0.001). Mean left ventricular ejection fraction increased from 0.34 to 0.44 (p less than 0.001) and the New York Heart Association classification was significantly improved in the diltiazem group and during the diltiazem period in the crossovers, but deteriorated in the controls. Therefore, the results suggest that adjunctive diltiazem treatment in dilated cardiomyopathy has beneficial effects on letality, hemodynamics, and symptoms. PMID- 2517157 TI - [Exercise capacity of coronary heart disease patients in long-term follow-up with gallopamil in comparison with premedication with verapamil]. AB - In 15 patients with coronary heart disease (mean data: age 60.4 years, body weight average 72.5 kg, four females, eleven males, six patients with myocardial infarction) the long-term treatment with verapamil (340 mg/die p.o.) was replaced by gallopamil (123 mg/die). In six patients the additional treatment with long lasting nitrates was continued. During a period of 1 year symptom-limited exercise tests (bicycle ergometry) were performed repeatedly (baseline, 1, 3, 6, and 12 months later). In comparison to the pretreatment with verapamil the calcium channel blocker gallopamil proved to be equally effective on the overall exercise performance, heart rate, and blood pressure regulation. Parameters of myocardial ischemia (maximal ST-depression, onset of significant ST-depression, duration of ST-changes after cessation of work) are less evident. Minor side effects include prolongation of the PQ-interval (0.24 on the mean in five patients) and arterial hypotension (two patients). One patient underwent coronary artery surgery as the complaints of angina pectoris worsened. PMID- 2517158 TI - Monitoring for Listeria monocytogenes in the food supply. PMID- 2517159 TI - Observation on the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in axons. AB - The brains from 16 sheep diagnosed as listerial encephalitis on the basis of clinical signs and histopathology were examined to determine the types of inflammatory cells present and for bacteria. Listeria monocytogenes were detected by immunocytochemistry in the brains of the 16 sheep and were also demonstrated in the trigeminal ganglion from the same side as the most severely affected side of the medulla. Bacteria were observed within myelinated axons in white matter tracts of the brain and in peripheral nerve axons of the trigeminal nerve. Their location in axoplasm was confirmed by electron microscopy. In order to investigate whether axonal presence can be equated with axonal transport, a model of infection has been established in mice in which bacteria are injected into the sciatic nerve. Paralysis of the injected leg occurs 7-12 days later and examination of the spinal cord reveals lesions very similar to those found in the brains of affected sheep. PMID- 2517160 TI - Comparative studies on susceptibility of the mouse (Mus musculus) and the vole (Microtus arvalis) to Listeria monocytogenes and Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae. AB - The susceptibility of mice and voles to intraperitoneal and subcutan injection of virulent strains has been tested comparatively on 261 mice and 120 voles. Using various germ-doses, 50 per cent lethality has been established. Listeria monocytogenes serovar 1/2a killed mice in doses of 120,000 and 1.5 X 10(6) germs when injected intraperitoneally and subcutaneously and voles in doses of 1800 and 12,000 germs, respectively. Thus voles proved 100 to 120 times more susceptible than mice. Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae killed mice injected both intraperitoneally or subcutaneously in minimal doses, such as 25 germs, but voles survived the infection with 1 to 5 million germs. This indicates that voles are resistant to E. rhusiopathiae, but more susceptible to L. monocytogenes than mice. In contrast, both these rodent species proved susceptible to the obligate pathogenic Francisella tularensis and invariably succumbed to septicaemia when injected with a few of these bacteria. PMID- 2517161 TI - Research on listeriosis in milk cows with intramammary inoculation of Listeria monocytogenes. AB - The purpose of our work was to produce 600 litre quantities of milk containing (per ml) 5000 viable Listeria monocytogenes, for certification of standard pasteurization technique. Preliminary research indicates deep (10 cm) inoculation via teat canal with 3 injections, (10(3), 10(5), 10(7)) per 10-day interval, was better than intraocular or per os route for establishing chronic L. monocytogenes mastitis. Although milk yield diminished 25%, chronic L. monocytogenes shedding persisted for 8 months. Sheeding in individual cows varied from 10(3) to 10(5) listeriae/ml. Dexamethasone injections increased L. monocytogenes shedding in milk ca. 1000-fold. Three of 30 cows were pregnant during the experiment and produced normal calves, indicating that intramammary L. monocytogenes infection was localized and did not migrate to the pregnant uterus. Four of 30 cows developed CNS symptoms of listeriosis, and one died. From 11 cows, L. monocytogenes was isolated at necropsy, from mammary tissues (9/11), supramammary lymph nodes (9/11), liver (6/11), spleen (5/11), and brain (6/11) by cold enrichment culture. Serum antibody titres of infected cows increased from 1: 160 to 1: 10,280 in most cows. Large scale pasteurization trials led to the conclusion that the present pasteurization guidelines of the FDA are adequate to inactivate listeriae in whole milk. PMID- 2517162 TI - Listeria-meningitis and -septicaemia in immunocompromised patients. AB - In the period from 1980-86 we obtained 51 strains of Listeria from meningitis in adults for serotyping and phage-typing. Ten strains were associated with meningitis and 3 with septicaemia of immunocompromised patients. They suffered from leukaemia, diabetes, Hodgkin's disease, alcoholism, lupus erythematodes. The lethality rate in these patients was 70%, in other patients with meningitis 30%. Phage typing has shown that 4b strains were often determined by the phage-code 00010 and similar codes. This phage-pattern might be specific for meningitis strains. The immunocomprised patient is especially endangered in taking up listeriae from the environment, but it must also be in consideration that listeriae may easy gain access from the gut into the vessels. PMID- 2517163 TI - Human listeriosis in France in 1987. AB - The surveillance of human listeriosis is based in France on laboratories' reports. From 1983 to 1986 the trend showed a steady increase of the number of cases reported. The highest annual incidence rate was observed in 1986 with 14.7 cases/million population. In 1987 less cases have been reported; about half of the human strains were typed by the National Reference Centre of Listeriosis showing that 62% were 4b, 22% were 1/2a and 13% were 1/2b. Since 1988, the surveillance of listeriosis is computerized using a system of minicomputer terminals (called Minitel) linked via a national telephone network to a large computer. The 70 microbiologists involved in this surveillance must send, on a 24 h basis, data as a soon as they have a new isolate of Listeria monocytogenes in their laboratories. An investigation (typing of the strains, case-control study) is made for each cluster detected. PMID- 2517164 TI - Towards a physical map of the Listeria chromosome: the pulsed field electrophoresis approach. AB - The possibility of the electrophoretic study of very large fragments of the Listeria chromosome (DNAs up to 1000 Kb) may help to the understanding of the physical organization and functional mapping of the entire genome of this organism. Several experiences were done to apply this technology to Listeria. Agarose inserts were prepared with intact cells and protoplasts, and lysis was induced in situ. Inserts with a convenient amount of DNA were cleaved in situ again by diffusing restriction enzymes into the agarose and submitted to one dimensional electric field that was periodically inverted, to cause changes of direction of the DNA fragments. We obtained a good band resolution of bands with Eco R1 and HindIII. Experiments are in progress to select other restriction enzymes leading to larger fragments. This technique must be combined with the use of blotting with known DNA sequences, such as the corresponding to the haemolysin, to arrive to a comprehensive map of the Listeria chromosome. Cloning of Listeria genes involved in several biochemical characteristics of Listeria, or at least a good collection of mutants will be quite necessary for the progress of such approach. PMID- 2517166 TI - An epidemiological survey of human listeriosis in France during 1987, using serotyping and phage typing. AB - During 1987 the French National Reference Center for Listeria received, from this country, 384 Listeria monocytogenes strains isolated from human listeriosis cases. A constant exchange of information and strains between the Reference Center and the Bacterial Ecology Unit of the Institute Pasteur of Paris allowed complete characterization of these isolates, using serotyping and phage typing. Among the strains studied 22%, 13% and 63%, respectively belonged to serovars 1/2a, 1/2b, and 4b, but this distribution can vary according to place, and time of isolation. Only 58% of strains were phage-typeable (1/2a: 29%), (1/2b: 66%) and (4b: 40%). Phage typing allows to consider that French human cases, in 1987, were mainly sporadic. However, a small number of cases corresponding to similar phage types could be clustered according to place and/or time. PMID- 2517165 TI - Reacquisition of virulence of haemolysin-negative Listeria monocytogenes mutants by complementation with a plasmid carrying the hlyA gene. AB - An haemolysin negative mutant of Listeria monocytogenes LO28 produced by insertion of Tn917 resulted in an avirulent derivative. The hlyA gene of the same strain was previously cloned in Escherichia coli and retransfered by transformation to the hly- derivative, after subcloning in the shuttle vector pMK4. The transformant strain (L828) reacquired an haemolytic activity at a similar level than the wild strain. The virulence of this hly+ transformant was estimated by determining the LD50 in Swiss mice infected intravenously. With increasing doses of bacteria a hly- control strain (transformant with only pMK4) appeared to be totally avirulent; however, no significant difference in virulence was found between the hly+ transformants and the wild strain. Seriol viable counts in the liver and spleen of infected mice demonstrated an increase in number of L828 hly+ transformants at 48 h, but the hly- control transformants were rapidly eliminated. These results confirm that the production of haemolysin is a major factor in the pathogenic capabilities of L. monocytogenes. PMID- 2517167 TI - Preliminary studies on monocine typing of Listeria monocytogenes strains. AB - About 58% of Listeria monocytogenes strains produced monocines. The titres of 1/2a monocines were higher than those of 4b strains. PMID- 2517168 TI - The incidence of Listeria monocytogenes in farm bulk milks in NE Scotland. AB - Raw milk samples (c. 20 ml) were taken from approximately 180 farm bulk tanks in the NE of Scotland on 3 occasions over a period from August 1987 to February 1988 and tested for the presence of Listeria monocytogenes. The maximum incidence of L. monocytogenes (3.8%) was found in the August sampling, with incidences of 1.02% and 2.7% in October and February. Direct enrichment of 0.1 ml was negative and only 2 of the total of 14 positives were obtained by direct enrichment using 1.0 ml of milk, the remainder requiring cold enrichment over a period up to 8 weeks. These findings are similar to two recent USA surveys which suggest that is positive milks the number of L. monocytogenes per ml is in the order of 1 organism per ml. PMID- 2517169 TI - Examination of Listeria monocytogenes in milk products. AB - The aim of our examinations was to make clear whether listeriae occur in Hungarian milk products, first of all, in cheese. In the course of model examinations, the most suitable enrichment- and isolation media were selected. An examination method was elaborated involving cold-enrichment and KOH treatment. Milk samples from different parts of the country and cheeses produced by different technologies were examined. To the present, 80 raw milk samples and 100 cheese samples were examined. Listeria monocytogenes could be detected in 3 raw milk and 2 cheese samples. PMID- 2517170 TI - Persistence of Listeria monocytogenes in three sorts of soil. AB - Life time of Listeria monocytogenes (strain PS 10401, serovar 4b) was studied in three sorts of soil: a chalky soil, poor in organic matters (pH 8.3) a peaty soil rich in organic matters (pH 5.5) a mixture of a chalky and peaty soil (pH 7.9). About 10(5) colony forming units (c.f.u.) per g of dry material were inoculated to each sort of soil which was incubated at 4 degrees C or at 20 degrees C. Periodically samples were taken and a numeration of germs was made on Tryptose Soy Agar. When direct numeration was negative, an enrichment was made at low temperature. In peaty soil, L. monocytogenes disappeared after incubation of 162 days at 4 degrees C and 156 days at 20 degrees C. In chalky soil, L. monocytogenes disappeared after 394 days of incubation at 20 degrees C, whereas at 4 degrees C, 10(4) c.f.u./g of dry matter were found 1500 days later. In mixture of chalky and peaty soil, 10(4) c.f.u. were found 1500 days after inoculation at 4 degrees C whereas 10(3) c.f.u. were found at 20 degrees C. Acid soils do not allow the persistence of L. monocytogenes for more than 160 days. Low temperature are significantly favourable to the persistence of L. monocytogenes. PMID- 2517171 TI - Preservation of the virulence of Listeria monocytogenes in different sorts of soil. AB - Listeria monocytogenes (strain PS 10401, serovar 4b) whose virulence was well known, has been placed for 600 days in a sterile chalky soil (pH 8.3) and in a mixture of chalky and peaty soil (pH 7.9) and incubated at 4 degrees C and 20 degrees C. Groups of six OF1 mice were challenged by subcutaneous injection in the rear left hind foodpad with each sort of germs. Three days after inoculation, mice were killed by cervical disruption and numeration of L. monocytogenes was made in the spleen. Chemical composition of soil does not change virulence of germs. But low temperatures significantly increase virulence. PMID- 2517172 TI - Thermal resistance of Listeria monocytogenes in sausage meat. AB - The heat resistance of a mixture of 10 different strains of Listeria monocytogenes inoculated into ground meat and ground meat plus cure was examined. D-values for ground meat ranged from 1.01 min at 62 degrees C to 13.18 min at 56 degrees C. The D-values obtained for ground meat plus cure were approximately 5-8 fold times higher than those for ground meat alone. These results imply that rare meats and possibly some cooked fermented meats may not be heated adequately to inactivate Listeria. PMID- 2517173 TI - Heat resistance of Listeria monocytogenes. AB - Raw milk was inoculated with Listeria monocytogenes and heat at 69 degrees C to 73 degrees C. The organism was recovered from 46.6% of the heated samples, but not from samples heated at 73 degrees C, after variable periods at refrigeration temperature. The results suggest that a low number of listeriae survive thermal treatments, but cold enrichment is necessary to repair the thermally injured cells. PMID- 2517174 TI - Heat resistance of Listeria monocytogenes. AB - Two methods were used to study the thermal resistance of Listeria monocytogenes. The D60 degrees C values ranged from 1.3 to 6.5 s in a open vessel. D72 degrees C varied from 0.06 to 1.5 s and z from 3.1 to 6.5 K (38 strains) in capillary tubes. Therefore a conventional pasteurization process of 15 s at 72 degrees C could assure 10 to 250 decimal reductions, depending on the strain. Six days enrichment at 4 degrees C in milk prior to incubation at 37 degrees C did not show any influence on measured heat resistance (4 strains). A significant difference of thermal resistance among strains according to their serotype was noted: strains belonging to serogroup 1 were more heat resistant than those belonging to serogroup 4. PMID- 2517175 TI - Direct isolation (without enrichment) of Listeria monocytogenes in milk. AB - In the present work we have developed a direct method (without enrichment) for the isolation of listeriae in milk, using the combinated action of SDS (sodium dodecyl sulphate), centrifugation and selective media. It is possible to identify even 0.5 listeriae/ml amongst 7.2 x 10(7) c.f.u. contaminants/ml. PMID- 2517176 TI - The use of monoclonal antibodies to demonstrate Listeria monocytogenes in post mortem tissue using a direct immunofluorescence technique, and to detect a soluble antigen in CSF supernatants using an ELISA. AB - A direct immunofluorescence technique was developed using FITC conjugates of anti listeria antibodies (CL2 and CL17). Using this technique Listeria monocytogenes (whole cells) were observed in post mortem tissue from 3 patients where listeriosis had been proven by the isolation of the bacterium, and also from a patient where listeriosis was suspected. Using one of these monoclonal antibodies (CL2) an indirect antigen capture ELISA was developed for the detection of soluble antigen. Soluble antigen was detected in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from 27% of patients infected with L. monocytogenes serogroup 4 and 2% of patients where listeriosis was suspected. The test was 100% specific in that antigen was not detected in 270 other CSF samples tested. Antigen was only detected in CSF samples taken within 7 days after onset of illness. PMID- 2517177 TI - Comparison of immunofluorescent antibody test and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for detection of antibodies to Listeria monocytogenes. AB - This laboratory has used an immunofluorescent antibody test (IFAT) for the detection of IgG and IgM antibodies to Listeria monocytogenes. This test is performed using whole cells of serotypes 1/2a, 1/2b, and 4b as antigen. Sera are pre-absorbed to remove cross-reacting antibodies. This test can diagnose listeriosis by demonstration of seroconversion in appropriately spaced acute and convalescent sera. The disadvantages of this test are the necessity for pre absorption, the use of three different test antigens and the need for subjective interpretation. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using sonicated listeria cells as the antigen in a microtitre plate system can theoretically overcome these shortcomings. An ELISA for antilisterial IgG and IgM was compared to the IFAT using sera from bacteriologically confirmed cases as positive controls and sera submitted for routine rubella serology as negative controls. The ELISA method as tested appeared to be less specific than the IFAT. As the serological diagnosis of listeriosis is complicated by the failure of the main antibody response to switch from IgM to IgG after infection, asimilar ELISA system was used to detect anti-listerial IgA antibody. This assay detected IgA in patients with proven listeriosis but not in the control patients. It appears to be sensitive, specific and easy to perform. PMID- 2517178 TI - Genetic regulation of macrophage production in response to surface components of Listeria monocytogenes. AB - Resistance to murine listeriosis requires humoral factors which alter production or delivery of monocytes to infective foci. Production of such factors is under genetic control and may be modulated by bacterial components. Two components from Listeria monocytogenes, monocytosis producing activity (MPA) and immunosuppressive activity (ISA) were used to study monocytopoiesis in mice with known abnormalities in microphage-related functions. Listeria-sensitive A/J mice fail to produce or respond to MPA or an endogenous mediator of monocytosis (EF). These studies provided evidence that a second humoral factor, decreases monocytopoiesis. Sera from A/J mice are more active in this respect and MPA treatment increases the amount of inhibitory factor in A/J mice. A polyclonal B cell activator, ISA, which induces suppressor splenic macrophages, suppresses the anti-SRBC response in resistant B10. A mice but not in A/J mice. ISA induced no change in prostaglandin E2 production by spleen cells of either strain. One interpretation of these findings is that A/J mice after stimulation by ISA or MPA, produce a substance which inhibits development of mononuclear phagocytes. PMID- 2517179 TI - The immunological properties of listerial complex Ei. AB - Factor Ei, besides exerting toxic reactions, is amphipathic, antigenic, chemotaxinogenic, causes blastic transformation, adjuvant effect, hypersensitivity (MIF, skin test), activates the RES (splenomegaly), increases the macrophage production, prevents listerial infection in mice, mycobacterial infection in guinea pigs and enhances the effect of BCG experimental tuberculosis and neoplasia in mice (Sa 180). PMID- 2517180 TI - Carotid endarterectomy. PMID- 2517181 TI - Transcranial Doppler sonography in subarachnoid hemorrhage. AB - Ten patients presenting a subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) due to rupture of a middle cerebral or an anterior communicating aneurysm are presented. Transcranial Doppler (TCD) values are obtained at different time intervals after SAH. The correlation of TCD values, vasospasm and clinical course is discussed. PMID- 2517182 TI - Non-traumatic subdural hygroma. AB - Subdural hygroma consists of a cerebrospinal fluid-like subdural fluid collection with a low oncotic pressure in comparison with venous blood. Its etiology and pathophysiology, which may be different from other subdural fluid collections, are reviewed. We report the clinical history of a 80-year-old woman with a bilateral frontal subdural hygroma. Serial CT-scanning demonstrated a rapid increase in volume after two years of slow evolution. In our patient dehydration may have been the triggering factor. The course of non-traumatic subdural hygroma is not well known. This report illustrates that subdural hygroma can have a dramatic evolution and that therapeutic decisions in these patients should be based on repeated CT-scans. PMID- 2517183 TI - Vertebral artery dissection without ischemic events in the vertebro-basilar system. AB - A case of extracranial vertebral artery dissection is reported, presenting with headache and pulsatile tinnitus, without ischemic events in the vertebrobasilar system. PMID- 2517184 TI - Acute Rh isoimmunization following abdominal trauma associated with late abruption placenta. AB - Acute exacerbation of Rh isoimmunization following abdominal trauma is a rare complication of pregnancy. The report describes a case of a mild case of erythroblastosis fetalis following maternal exposure to massive fetal-maternal transfusion, occurring after abdominal injury in motoring accident. Abruptio placenta 7 days following the trauma indicated emergency cesarean section, at which a severely affected fetus (erythroblastosis fetalis) was delivered. Late abruption--in the presence of no other risk factor--is considered to call for prolonged surveillance. Any abdominal trauma in a Rh-negative woman should alert one to the possibility of massive transplacental hemorrhage and augmentation of the maternal immune response. PMID- 2517185 TI - Are there two biological parts in the second stage of labor? AB - In 228 patients, fetal blood pH, pCO2 and lactic acid were measured in two distinguishable parts of the second stage of labor. The 'first' part begins at full cervical dilatation and ends when the mother starts her first voluntary bearing down efforts. In our study, the fetal acid-base status did not change in this part, regardless of a late developing hypoxia. In contrast, higher levels of lactic acid and pCO2 and lower pH values were observed in the 'final' part of the second stage, indicating increasing acidosis. In this 'final' part, the fetuses with clinical signs of distress, as defined by an ominous Apgar score at birth, showed quicker and larger acid-base shifts than did the normal fetuses. Thus the two parts of the second stage of labor actually differ in their potential to stimulate fetal acidosis. Since such fetal acidosis may develop especially during the 'final' part of labor, we have concluded that special particular attention should be devoted to this part. PMID- 2517186 TI - [CO2 laser treatment of the glottic sulcus and of epidermoid cyst. Technic and results]. AB - The CO2-lasers of the new generation are equipped with milliwatts, super-pulse, small spot size (700 U or less). These technical improvements safe permit in resection of vocal fold benign lesions like polyps, nodules, or even sulcus glottidis. Our resection technique for sulcus glottidis and epidermoid cysts is presented in 18 cases. If very strict rules of microsurgical treatment are respected, the functional results are as good as those with conventional techniques (93% of good results). PMID- 2517187 TI - [Studies on pyrazine derivatives. XXVI. Synthesis and tuberculostatic activity of N-pyrazinylthiourea]. AB - 2-Amino-3-chloropyrazine and 2-amino-6-chloropyrazine were reacted with appropriate sodium alkoxides to give 2-aminopyrazine derivatives with the methoxy, benzyloxy, chlorobenzyloxy, dichlorobenzyloxy, bromobenzyloxy or dibromobenzyloxy group at positions 3 and 6 (I-XIV). The obtained compounds were converted into N-pyrazinyl-N'-benzoylthioureas (XV-XXXI) by reacting with benzoyl isothiocyanate. Their hydrolysis yielded N-pyrazinylthioureas XXXII-XLVII. Analogical reactions of alkoxyaminopyrazines with p-chlorophenyl isothiocyanate or 2,6-dichlorophenyl isothiocyanate afforded corresponding N-pyrazinyl-N'-(p chlorophenyl)thioureas and N-pyrazinyl-N'- (2,6-dichlorophenyl)thioureas (XLVIII LVIII). The obtained compounds were found to display tuberculostatic in vitro activity with MIC values from 8 meg/cm3 to 1000 mu meg/cm3. PMID- 2517188 TI - [Obesity in children. Review of several aspects]. PMID- 2517189 TI - Analysis of genotoxic activity of 16 compounds and mixtures by the Drosophila mosaic test. AB - The mutagenicity of 16 compounds and mixtures were tested by the Drosophila melanogaster wing mosaic test. Fourteen of them gave negative results, two proved to be mutagenic. The positive compounds were chlor-diamino-toluene and 2-(2,4 dichlorophenoxy) propionic acid. Chlor-diamino-toluene increased the frequency of mitotic recombinations and gene mutations although it was found negative by the sex linked recessive lethal test. 2-(2,4-dichlorophenoxy) propionic acid caused only mitotic recombinations. PMID- 2517190 TI - A fluoride analysis program to reduce tooth decay in rural children. PMID- 2517191 TI - Assessment of a PstI polymorphism of the apolipoprotein-AI gene in Australian patients with coronary artery disease. AB - In 1986 Ordovas et al., reported that a polymorphism in the 3' flanking region of the apolipoprotein AI gene was strongly associated with premature coronary artery disease. This polymorphism affects a restriction site for the endonuclease PstI, resulting in the identification of a 3.3 kb band, rather than the more common 2.2 kb band, when genomic blots of PstI digested human DNA are probed with an apolipoprotein AI gene probe. In a study population of 88 patients with severe coronary artery disease before the age of 60, 28 (32%) carried the 3.3 kb allele, which was found in only five (4%) of 123 randomly chosen control subjects. In the present study, we have assessed the prevalence of this polymorphism in coronary artery disease patients and outpatients with abnormal lipid levels at the Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, and in normal volunteers. The 3.3 kb allele was present in 7 12% of subjects in these populations, and showed no association with coronary artery disease. PMID- 2517192 TI - Acute lead arsenate poisoning. AB - Three cases of acute lead arsenate poisoning which occurred in South Australia during a 12 month interval are described. The case reports demonstrate a number of features of the characteristic clinical syndrome which may follow ingestion of lead arsenate. The recommended management is immediate gastric lavage and subsequent chelation therapy with calcium EDTA and dimercaprol. Early gastric lavage may prevent significant lead absorption. However, arsenic acid (produced in the stomach when lead arsenate reacts with hydrochloric acid) is relatively water soluble and prompt gastric lavage is unlikely to prevent extensive arsenic absorption. It remains controversial as to whether chelation with dimercaprol prevents arsenical neuropathy. PMID- 2517193 TI - Combined treatment with gonadotrophin releasing hormone agonist and gonadotrophins in poor responders to hyperstimulation for in vitro fertilization (IVF): clinical and endocrine results. AB - Seventy three cycles of combined gonadotrophin releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist/gonadotrophin treatment for IVF controlled ovarian hyperstimulation in previous poor responders to standard ovarian hyperstimulation therapy are reported. Oocyte numbers obtained were better than the previous average results, but were similar to the previous best response. In general more oocytes than the previous mean could be expected but low order responders were not transformed into high order responders. Pregnancies did occur in this difficult group of patients but the rate was modest. Because of a reduction in cancelled cycles, patients might reduce their total costs in time and gonadotrophin used, however this treatment is not a panacea for the true low order responder. PMID- 2517194 TI - [Prostaglandin-like inhibitors of prostaglandin-H-synthase]. AB - The effect of none prostaglandin-like cyclopentanone derivatives on the prostaglandin H synthase activity was studied. Seven substances proved to be inhibitors of the enzyme, some of the being similar to the well-known nonsteroid antiinflammatory drugs with respect to their inhibitory activity. PMID- 2517195 TI - The formation of singlet oxygen during oxidation of catechol amines as detected by infrared chemiluminescence and spectrophotometric method. AB - 1 delta g----3 sigma-g near infrared chemiluminescence from the peroxidation reaction of dopa, dopamine, noradrenaline and adrenaline was measured. The spectrophotometric method based on the bleaching of p-nitrosodimethylaniline was applied to check the generation of singlet oxygen during oxidation of the above mentioned catecholamines. PMID- 2517196 TI - Evaluation of a non-radioactive DNA probe for confirmatory identification of Neisseria gonorrhoeae. AB - A biotinylated DNA probe combined with a streptavidin-peroxidase complex for the identification of culture isolates of N. gonorrhoeae (Ortho diagnostic systems, Neckargemund, FRG) was compared with the conventional carbohydrate utilisation test as reference. All 118 strains identified by the reference method as N. gonorrhoeae also gave positive reactions with the DNA hybridisation assay. However, with this test 2 of 23 non-gonococcal Neisseria or Branhamella species were identified as N. gonorrhoeae as well. The study shows that the DNA hybridisation technique can principally be used for the confirmatory identification of N. gonorrhoeae, but since specificity is particularly essential for confirmatory identification, the DNA hybridisation assay evaluated cannot be recommended for routine diagnosis. PMID- 2517197 TI - Isolation of Listeria from French meat products. AB - One hundred and ten Listeria strains were recovered from 378 meat samples: L. monocytogenes (68 strains), L. innocua (45) and L. welshimeri (7). L. monocytogenes isolates mainly belonged to serogroup 1/2 (1/2: 23 strains; 1/2b: 1; 1/2c: 43; 4b: 1). These results contrast those observed for 355 human strains isolated during the same period in France where serovar 4b strains were largely predominant (66.5%). 45% of the strains were phage typable. These results underline the widespread occurrence of Listeria in meat products. PMID- 2517198 TI - Serotypes of Pseudomonas aeruginosa from human and animal sources. AB - Forty human isolates and twenty-eight animal isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa from Prince Edward Island area (Atlantic Canada) were serotyped using a kit consisting of 4 polyvalent O-group antisera and 17 monovalent O-type (serovar) antisera, in accordance with the International Antigenic Typing Scheme. The results showed a difference between humans/dogs (50%/48% group I) and pigs (71% group IV). Whereas O-serovar 9 and 1 appeared to be most involved in human and canine infections, O-serovar 3 was the predominant type in porcine infections. PMID- 2517199 TI - The proto-oncogene c-fos: structure, expression, and functional aspects. PMID- 2517200 TI - Bibliography of the current world literature. PMID- 2517201 TI - Willingness to participate in a national seroprevalence study of HIV infection. AB - This paper examines the impact of the social dimension of AIDS on a person's willingness to participate in a hypothetical national seroprevalence study of HIV infection. Data from the AIDS supplement of the 1987 National Health Interview Survey provided information about the sociodemographic characteristics and AIDS related variables and the expressed willingness to participate in a national serosurvey. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to evaluate simultaneously associations between the sociodemographic variables and AIDS related variables with willingness to participate. Results show that those with sociodemographic characteristics most dissimilar from reported AIDS cases were least willing to participate while those with a high knowledge about AIDS, experience of the HIV test or tested people, and higher perceptions of risk were more willing to participate. We found two exceptions to this general result. First, respondents with no knowledge about AIDS, but a higher level of education, were less willing to participate than those with no knowledge and a lower level of education. Second, respondents with a higher perception of risk and a higher level of education were also less willing than those with high perception of risk and less education. PMID- 2517202 TI - Networks of sexual contacts: implications for the pattern of spread of HIV. AB - This paper examines the influence of sexual contact patterns (mixing matrices) on the pattern of the AIDS epidemic in a male homosexual community via numerical studies of a mathematical model of the transmission dynamics of HIV. A discussion is presented of the range of possible structures of networks of sexual contacts with extremes of assortative (within sexual activity groups) and disassortative (between sexual activity groups) mixing. The assortative mixing extreme is shown to generate the most rapid growth in the incidence of infection in the early stages of the epidemic while the disassortative extreme is shown to generate the epidemic of the largest magnitude over a long period. High within-group mixing (assortative) may generate multi-peak epidemics. The results are discussed in the context of both the interpretation of observed patterns of the spread of HIV and the acquisition of data on sexual contact patterns. PMID- 2517204 TI - In vitro anti-HIV activity of sulfated amphotericin B. PMID- 2517203 TI - Does HIV cause salivary gland disease? AB - HIV-associated salivary gland disease (HIV-SGD) is characterized by enlargement of the major salivary glands and/or xerostomia. HIV does not appear to play a direct role in this disease since it was detected by immunohistochemistry in only occasional lymphocytes in labial salivary glands in two out of six patients; it was not found in the salivary gland epithelial cells. Moreover, HIV was not found in any of 21 saliva samples from seven patients. We conclude that HIV-SGD is not caused by direct infection of the salivary glands with HIV. PMID- 2517206 TI - Epidemic Kaposi's sarcoma in Spanish AIDS patients. PMID- 2517205 TI - Lack of anti-p27nef antibody detection in HIV-seronegative high-risk people. PMID- 2517207 TI - Efficacy of the somatostatin analogue (SMS-201-995), Sandostatin, for cryptosporidial diarrhoea in patients with AIDS. PMID- 2517208 TI - Direct RNA binding by the rev product of HIV-1. PMID- 2517209 TI - Combined immunodeficiency with defective expression in MHC class II genes. AB - MHC class II deficiency is an inherited immunodeficiency disease characterized by the presence of a normal number of T and B lymphocytes and profound anomaly of cellular and humoral responses to foreign antigens. All bone-marrow-derived cells (including B lymphocytes, monocytes and activated T lymphocytes) and also enterocytes and endothelial cells do not express all HLA class II (DR, DQ and DP) molecules on their membrane. It is known that the proper recognition of foreign antigens depends on their presentation, together with HLA class II molecules, on the membrane of antigen-presenting cells. MHC class II deficient combined immunodeficiency confirms the important role of MHC gene products in immune defence mechanisms. Patients suffer from repeated and severe infections that are frequently the cause of death. The defect in HLA class II expression is the consequence of a lack of synthesis of HLA class II alpha and beta chains in patients' cells. Studies performed at DNA and RNA levels showed that there was no gross abnormality of MHC class II genes and that mRNA for all HLA molecules was not detected in patients' cells. These results, together with segregation studies performed in several families, suggested that the defect in HLA class II gene expression involves a transacting regulatory factor. Direct transcription assays showed that the disease is characterized by an absence of HLA class II gene transcription. An analysis of the specific binding of nuclear proteins from patients' cell lines to HLA class II promotor showed that a specific protein, RF X, which normally binds to a regulatory sequence common to HLA class II promotors, is affected in MHC class II combined immunodeficiency. PMID- 2517210 TI - Primary immunodeficiency diseases. Report of a WHO sponsored meeting. PMID- 2517211 TI - A simple assay for DNA transfection by incubation of the cells in culture dishes with substrates for beta-galactosidase. AB - Transfection efficiency of different cell types as well as promoter strength of cloned genes can be easily determined by direct assay of beta-galactosidase activity encoded from recombinant genes containing the E. coli beta-galactosidase gene. A substrate for beta-galactosidase, o-nitrophenyl-beta-D-galactopyranoside (ONPG), can be added to dishes containing the transfected cells, and the intensity of the colored enzyme product released from either the intact cell or cells lysed in the dishes can be determined. The results obtained by this assay are a reliable measure of transfection efficiency as well as promotor strength of the genes introduced into the cells. In addition, cells expressing the transfected gene can be identified and quantitated under a light microscope after incubation with X-gal. Thus, it is more convenient to use the E. coli beta galactosidase gene than the chloramphenicol acetyltransferase gene as a reporter gene in the evaluation of DNA transfection. PMID- 2517212 TI - Rapid one-step characterization of recombinant vectors by direct analysis of transformed Escherichia coli colonies. AB - We have developed a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based procedure for rapidly analyzing recombinant vectors in whole bacterial cells. No purification, restriction mapping or sequencing of vectors is required and the results are available within 6 hours. Whole cells are added to a PCR mix that is designed to amplify DNA only if the correct insert is present in the required orientation. The presence of an appropriately sized band on an agarose gel is indicative of a correct clone. PMID- 2517213 TI - A rapid and cost-effective method for preparing genomic DNA from gram-negative bacteria in agarose plugs for pulsed-field gel electrophoresis. PMID- 2517214 TI - Guanine nucleotide-binding proteins and cellular control. PMID- 2517215 TI - [Status of complex partial crisis as a response to the treatment with oral carbamazepine]. PMID- 2517216 TI - Molecular cloning of a Bacillus subtilis gene involved in cell division, sporulation, and exoenzyme secretion. AB - The wild type div-341+ gene of Bacillus subtilis was cloned in a temperate phage rho 11, and was recloned in a smaller temperate phage phi 105. The resulting Div+ transducing phage carried a 3 kilobase Cfr13I digested chromosomal fragment which showed Div+ transforming activity and contained the whole div-341+ gene which is involved in cell division, sporulation, exoenzyme secretion, competent cell formation, and autolysis. A partial restriction map of the fragment was established. The merodiploid system of the div-341+ gene, wild type gene on the phage genome and mutant gene on the chromosome, resulted in the suppression of mutant phenotypes and indicated that the wild type div-341+ gene is dominant over mutant gene. PMID- 2517217 TI - Melanin production in cultured albino melanocytes transfected with mouse tyrosinase cDNA. AB - An attempt was made in the present study to express mouse tyrosinase cDNAs fused with the authentic genomic 5' non-coding flanking sequence in cultured albino melanocytes. One of the cDNA sequences, which expressed successfully and produced melanin pigments, was analyzed with respect to deduced amino acid sequence. Sequencing of the tyrosinase genomic gene revealed the existence of several sets of a characteristic structure which consists of a chain of two successive stem structures, CCAAT-homology and TATA box at its 5' non-coding region. It seems possible that this region represents the regulatory element of the tyrosinase gene. Unusually long GA cluster at 5' upstream region was also found. PMID- 2517218 TI - [Oxygen radicals and hypertension]. AB - The Author reviews the problem, starting with a short introduction about oxygen free radicals. He discusses the vascular factor, emphasizing the importance of several known relaxants, EDRF, prostacyclin, monooxigenated arachidonate derivatives, ANF, hydrogen peroxide and hydroxyl radical. He analyses the involvement of free radicals in kidney damage and presents evidence for their formation during cerebral vascular accidents. PMID- 2517219 TI - [Left ventricular diverticulum at the subaortic level]. AB - We report a case of a left ventricular diverticulum located immediately under the aortic valve ring. The patient presented both aortic insufficiency and stenosis, and was submitted to valve replacement surgery and closure of the diverticulum. The peculiarity of this case relies on its non atherosclerotic etiology, its unusual location and also because of the calcification of the diverticulum's wall. PMID- 2517220 TI - Immunoprotective extracellular polysaccharides of Klebsiella aerogenes capsular type K1, expressed in Escherichia coli. AB - A gene library of genomic DNA Klebsiella aerogenes of capsular serotype K1 was constructed in E. coli LE392 using the cosmid pMMB33. Culture filtrates of E. coli recombinants were screened by ELISA for extracellular polysaccharides specific for K. aerogenes K1. Extracellular polysaccharide extracts from K. aerogenes K1 and 3% of the E. coli recombinants contained immunoprotective extracellular polysaccharides (IEP) with similar chemical and immunological properties as shown by gel filtration through Sephacryl 1000, double immunodiffusion and mouse protection tests. IEPs contained no detectable protein, had molecular weights of several hundred million and protected mice against lethal autologous K. aerogenes K1 challenge at a dosage of 10 nanograms per mouse. PMID- 2517221 TI - Is the conventional doctrine about macrophage activation still true? AB - The present results challenge the view that macrophage activation leads to a general, non-specific increase of microbicidal activity of these cells. Instead, it was found that the interactions between activated macrophages and micro organisms are dependent on the kind of activation and the type of target micro organism. PMID- 2517222 TI - Carbohydrates as recognition molecules in infection and immunity. AB - Consideration of host-parasite interactions encompasses a wide range of phenomena from adhesion to epithelial surfaces to interactions with cells of the immune system. This review focuses on the role of carbohydrates as recognition molecules in these complex interactions. The abundant glycoproteins and glycolipids of cell surfaces of both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells have the ability to exist in a variety of spatial configurations through alpha- and beta-linkages and the formation of branched structures. This ability carries with it the opportunity of acting as informational molecules greater than that possible for proteins or nucleic acids. The blood group substances are probably the best characterized of these carbohydrate containing molecules. Whilst at present a detailed understanding of the importance of these molecules in host-parasite interaction is lacking, the material covered in this discussion emphasizes the way in which carbohydrate based recognition has been shown to be involved and may provide the basis for further understanding. PMID- 2517223 TI - Long-term care legislation: an issue of concern for nurse practitioners. AB - Comprehensive long-term care policy has many hurdles to overcome before it becomes a reality. The biggest hurdle is the price tag! Estimates range from $6 billion (Pepper's home-care bill) to $46 billion (Stark's long-term care coverage bill). Congressional insiders predict that federal long-term care coverage must contain "pay-as-you-go" financing to win congressional passage. The medicare catastrophic health care act is cited by many in the Congress as establishing the precedent for self-financing of new federal benefits. In a pay-as-you-go era in public spending, any new program can only come from trimming existing programs and shifting those funds to new programs or from generating new revenues. The latter could result from increased beneficiary cost-sharing, an increase in the medicare payroll tax, or by eliminating the $45,000 cap on income exposed to the current 1.45% medicare payroll tax. Federal proposals to date build on existing medicare and medicaid programs. In them, quality assurance measures have been strengthened, consumer input encouraged, and a new layer of bureaucracy established to screen potential clients and provide case-management services. The scope of services is broad in most of the current proposals, and reimbursement is provided for respite care to allow family care givers relief and assistance. Access to nurse practitioners' services is an important feature of Kennedy's Lifecare proposal and is the focus of lobbying efforts for all public and private proposals. It is time for nurse practitioners to become involved in long-term care legislation. This may be initiated by reviewing current proposals and long term care packages offered by major insurance companies. Any future long-term care benefit should bear the imprint of the nurse practitioner's professional perspective and the profession's commitment to humane, caring health policy. PMID- 2517224 TI - Possible mechanisms of autoantibody production. AB - Recent advances in the understanding of the ontogeny of the normal B cell response and of the molecular mechanisms that are used to generate a diverse B cell repertoire have resulted in new approaches to the study of autoimmune diseases. B cell lines with autoantibody specificity can easily be generated from normal individuals. These low affinity and generally polyspecific "natural autoantibodies" have features of a B cell response prior to antigenic stimulation and are encoded by germline or relatively unmutated genes. Pathogenic autoantibodies from autoimmune individuals on the other hand, appear to be higher affinity antibodies that have features of an antigen selected response. The relationship between these two different classes of autoantibodies remains to be determined. Our studies of anti-DNA antibodies in human SLE have revealed that anti-DNA antibodies from unrelated patients share dominant cross-reactive idiotypes. Analysis of monoclonal anti-DNA antibodies bearing two SLE related idiotypes, 3I and F4, have indicated to us that DNA binding activity is acquired by somatic mutation, suggesting that these autoantibodies are not germline encoded but require antigenic stimulation and T cell help. Molecular analysis of genes encoding 3I reactive light chains from a panel of EBV transformed B cell lines have revealed that 3I reactive light chains are nearly all encoded by a member of the VK 1 gene family. Thus for this idiotypic system, there is restricted gene usage to encode anti-DNA antibodies. Further molecular analysis may reveal the structural features that determine idiotype reactivity and autoreactivity and may help determine what features of these genes could account for their preferential expression in SLE patients and their family members.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2517226 TI - [Functional recovery of tendons and nerves after early repair of electric burns of the extremities using cutaneous and myocutaneous flaps]. AB - A new operative treatment for the early repair of electric burn injuries by using cutaneous or myocutaneous flaps are recommended. The functional results of the burnt tendons and nerves were followed up. 174 operations among 134 cases were performed from 1964 to 1984, amputation rate were decreased to 9.7%. The percentage of functional recovery of the burnt tendons at wrist canal are 97.6% and which of the 21 burnt peripheral nerves are 80.9%. PMID- 2517225 TI - Cytochemical study of abnormal intranuclear structures rich in beryllium. AB - During prolonged intoxication with beryllium sulphate, intranuclear beryllium rich structures (IBRS) develop mainly in the cells of the convoluted tubules of the kidney. These structures are constituted by the accumulation of dense granules approximately 20 nm in diameter. The present work shows: 1) by electron probe microanalysis that IBRS are rich in phosphorus and calcium, and 2) by high resolution ion microanalysis that the granules are rich in beryllium and proteins. Staining with thallium alcoholate and regressive staining with ethylenediaminetetraacetate (EDTA) seem to demonstrate the presence of ribonucleoproteins in the granules. But the richness in calcium and phosphorus makes it difficult to interprete cytochemical reactions based on thallium and lead because complexes can be formed between calcium and thallium or lead, and between phosphorus and lead. Extraction with EDTA and digestion with RNase carried out on floating slices fixed with glutaraldehyde and embedded in glycol methacrylate show that: 1) the positive response of IBRS to cytochemical techniques used seems due solely to calcium; 2) the RNase forms a stable complex with a constituent of the granules that could be the highly phosphorylated acidic protein that binds preferentially to beryllium described by Parker and Stevens. PMID- 2517227 TI - [Thumb reconstruction using a neurovascular pedicled island flap]. AB - Since June 1983, seven kinds of neurovascular pedicled island flaps have been applied for thumb reconstruction in 14 cases with satisfied results. The donor flaps were from dorsum of index finger in 4 cases, from radial aspect of index in 3 cases, from both the dorsum and the radial aspect of index in 2 cases, from the dorsum and radial aspect of the index finger and the radial aspect of long finger in 2 cases, from the ulnar aspect of the index and the radial aspect of long finger in 2 cases, and from the radial aspect of forearm in 1 case. In other case, the thumb was reconstructed by an osteocutaneous flap arising from radial aspect of forearm. The procedures are faster, simpler and safer than the microsurgical flap transfer: the contour and function are better than those of traditional tube-pedicle graft. PMID- 2517228 TI - [Clinical application of a paraumbilical axial flap--report of 16 cases]. AB - The paraumbilical skin flap is based on the deep inferior epigastric artery and its paraumbilical perofrators. It can be transferred not only as a free flap but also as a pedicle flap or island flap. Since December 1987, we have successfully used the flap to repair the wounds and to reconstruct penis in 16 cases. The merits of the flap are as follows: The position of deep inferior epigastric artery is constant. The blood supply to the flap is good. The flap has a long vascular pedicle and the donor site is concealed. PMID- 2517229 TI - [Acute stress mucosal lesion of the upper gastrointestinal tract after burn--a clinical and endoscopic analysis of 31 cases]. AB - 31 burned patients were studied by fiber-endoscopy. We found that the incidence rate of acute stress mucosal lesion (ASML) of upper gastrointestinal tract was 100% in which burns involved more than 30% of total body surface. The degree of severity of ASML appeared to be influenced by the areas of the burn and the duration between examination and occurrence of burn. It was also related to the existence of complications. The study of endoscopic findings revealed that ASML had a special development course. It consisted of congestion, edema, erosion, bleeding and ulceration. The acute ulceration was only a part of the whole course. The incidence rate of the stress ulcer of this group was 27.6%. The bleeding rate was 34.5%. The bile reflux was 87% in 29 patients. Endoscopic examination can not only recognize the nature of the ASML, but also can collect the incidence rate accurately and find the location of the bleeding and ulcer in time. So this provided an important method for the etiological study. If the examination is well prepared and handled carefully, the procedure is very safe. PMID- 2517230 TI - [A combination method of elevation, retrusion of the palate and reduction of the transverse diameter of the pharyngeal cavity in the repair of cleft palate. Report of 51 cases]. PMID- 2517231 TI - [Method and result of oxygen addition in the culture process of Pseudomonas aeruginosa]. AB - Pseudomonas aeruginosa septicemia are frequent complications of patients with major burns. To evaluate more rapid culture methods for diagnosis, we have established a new culture method of pseudomonas aeruginosa by oxygen addition. The results of vitro study showed that the growth time of pseudomonas aeruginosa was 8 to 12 hours earlier by the new culture method than by the ordinary method, when pseudomonas aeruginosa were incubated in broth at 37 degrees C to achieve approximately 50 to 65 colony-forming units/bottle. A total of 60 samples was tested when each culture bottle was added approximately 2 to 10 colony-forming units. The percentage of positive culture was 75% by venting oxygen addition method and 33.3% by ordinary method. The result of assay of 26 blood samples from patients with major burns showed that the percentage of positive blood cultures was 69.2% by the new method and 42.3% by the ordinary method. The culture time of the new method was 4 to 12 hours earlier than the ordinary method. This technique may lead to a greater chance of recovery and rapid detection of pseudomonas aeruginosa from blood samples. PMID- 2517232 TI - [Use of hemodilution in microsurgery]. AB - From Nov. 1985 to Jun. 1988, we used the hemodilution in microsurgery. Of the 24 free flaps 22 survived and 2 failed. While the 17 free flaps in the patients without hemodilution, only 14 flaps survived. We think that the advantages of hemodilution applied to microsurgery are: 1. The common advantages in the field of surgery are to reduce amount of bleeding during the operation, to improve the blood perfusion to important organs, to avoid adverse blood reactions and to decrease the infectious diseases caused by the blood transfusion. 2. The outstanding advantages in microsurgery are as follows: (1) After moderate hemodilution had been performed, blood stickiness was so reduced that the resistance of blood stream was decreased. Because blood coagulation was reduced, bleeding and clotting time prolonged. The above-mentioned changes are beneficial to keep blood vessels unobstructed and also to prevent the free flaps from undergoing the crisis. (2) After moderate hemodilution has been performed, the speed of blood stream and the cardiac output were both increased, which made the free flaps be in a state of "overperfusion". The over-perfusion may both supply the free flaps with enough oxygen and eliminate metabolic products quickly, which will be beneficial for recovering of the flap shock and prevent the free flaps from occurring DIC. PMID- 2517233 TI - [Complications of the donor area in free flap graft]. PMID- 2517234 TI - [Burns complicated by gastrointestinal haemorrhage--an analysis of 70 cases]. AB - Burn patients complicated with hematemesis or typical melena were reviewed. Patients with only positive occult blood in the feces were not included. The incidence rate was 1.51%. This complication occurred in any age-group with similar incidence. Unstable burn shock in early stage was one of the important factors for this complication. The morbidity (16.5%) in early shock group was significantly (P less than 0.01) higher than in non-shock group (0.3%). It appeared mainly within three weeks postburn and predominantly in the first week (55.7%). Ulceration might occur in the whole gastrointestinal tract but duodenum was the most frequent site, where ulceration was recognized in 12 out 22 cases, either at postmortem or at operation. The frequency of ulceration in other portions was as follows: stomach 7, oesophagus 3, jejunum 1 and colon 1. The haemoglobin prior to or after hemorrhage had been determined in 54 cases. The decreased values varied from 1 to 10.8 g (mean 3.54 +/- 2.02 g). Of the 70 cases, 31.4% were complicated by haemorrhagic shock, and there were no distinct prodromal symptoms prior to bleeding, except in 25.5% cases there was a complaint of abdominal pain. Of the 49 deaths, 7 died of haemorrhagic shock, 4 of DIC, 1 of abdominal pain. Of the ulcer and 37 of septicemia. Our data showed that the mortality rate was rather high, especially when it coexisted with sepsis. The diagnosis and some problems about therapy are discussed in this paper. PMID- 2517235 TI - [The use of a fibrinous adhesive agent in plastic surgery]. PMID- 2517236 TI - [Clinical use of a rotation cheek flap]. AB - The inverse triangular skin defect between lower eyelid and up lip can be repaired by cheek rotation flap. In order to preventing lower eyelid eversion, the author designed a triangular flap in the lateral canthal area which can change force bearing direction in this area. The flap can repair the defect as wide as 8 X 5 cm when the combination of bilobate flap of the posterior auricular flap and cheek flap was used. This technique was performed in 23 cases in last three years. PMID- 2517237 TI - [Effect of Polygonum cuspidatum No 4 on the enhancement of cardiac function during burn shock]. AB - A burn shock model was produced in rats by scalding the lumbus and lower extremities with 80 degrees C water for 30 seconds. The variable of cardiac functions were measured with a Cardiac-II-R cardio-output computer. It was shown that heart functions decreased as early as 10 min following scalding. Cardiac output (CO), cardiac index (CI), and stroke volume index (SVI) were reduced by 40% of normal, and stroke work (SW) by 47%. With the decrease of CO, total peripheral resistance (TPR) increased. Two hour later TPR was increased 2.6-fold more than pre-burn level, which made BP maintain nearly normal. TPR started to reduce at 3 hr post-burn, resulting in decrease of BP. The decreased heart function returned to near normal by administration of crystal of Polygonum cuspidatum No 4 (p.c), e.g, CO and CI were increased to 91.0% of pre-burn value, SW to 100.1%, and SVI to 102.0%. The increased TPR was reduced to near normal. Half of p.c.-treated animals survived within 24 hr, but all of simple burn animals and n.s.-treated animals died within 24 hr. Under the condition of no fluid infusion, administration of p.c. could restore the decreased heart function, which showed that besides loss of plasma, direct myocardial depression was one of the reason for the decrease of cardiac output during burn shock. The survival rate of animals with burn shock was enhanced by injection of p.c., which indicated that increasing heart function was a very important measure for the treatment of burn shock. PMID- 2517238 TI - [Serial observation of human epidermal cell culture]. AB - The primary and secondary cultures of human epidermal cells were observed serially with SEM and TEM. The cells interdigitated each other with numerous microvilli and creases on their surface. Mitoses could be seen in vigorous proliferating cells. However some cells showed degeneration and desquamation changes with less microvilli and relatively smooth surface. Once the cells became confluent, they began to stratify into basal, intermediate and upper layers or zones. The basal layer cells contained abundant organelles, free ribosomes and monofilaments with many desmosomes between the adjacent cells. The upper layer cells underwent terminal differentiation with fewer microvilli, sparse organelles even showed disorganization. As the culture time prolonged more cell showed this changes. The results here suggested that it is better to graft the confluent epidermal cell layer about three weeks after seeding as their proliferation is in good condition, and the basal cell layer should be applied onto the wound in favor of cell growth. PMID- 2517239 TI - [Effect of superoxide dismutase and allopurinol on microcirculatory disturbances during burn shock]. AB - The effect of free radicals scavengers (SOD and allopurinol) on the adherence of leukocytes and the blood flow of capillaries in spinotropizus muscle was observed in rats with burn shock. The changes in water content in heart, liver, lung, spleen, kidney and burned skin were measured. The survival time of the animals was recorded. The results showed that the number of the adherence of WBC decreased obviously, the amount of open capillaries increased, and the survival time of the animals with thermal injury prolonged by pretreating with SOD and allopurinol. The results of SOD were better than that of allopurinol. SOD also prevented the increase of water content in the lung and the burned skin, while allopurinol did not have this effect. It was shown that the therapeutic effect of SOD would appear if the medicine were given before or immediately after burn. However when SOD was administered half an hour after burn, there was no effect on adherence of WBC. These results confirm that superoxide free radical may be responsible for the adherence of WBC and hypoperfusion of microcirculation during burn shock. The scavengers have an important role in preventing microcirculatory disturbances, but it should be used as early as possible after thermal injury in order to block the response chain caused by free radicals. PMID- 2517240 TI - [An animal model of pump-controlled gastroenteric feeding]. AB - A model for the study of gastroenteric feedings was established in guinea pigs. The model consists of guinea pig with gastrostomy tube and pump-controlled continuous enteral infusion system, with a swivel between the gastrostomy tube and pump system, so that the guinea-pig could move freely in the cage during the experimental period. We used this model for continuous gastroenteric feeding study lasting 2 weeks, and the mortality of animal was low. It is simple, easy to operate, inexpensive and suitable for the experiment of gastroenteric feeding. PMID- 2517242 TI - [Development of the fasciocutaneous flap]. PMID- 2517241 TI - [Experimental study of dynamic changes in elastase-antiprotease in rabbits in the early stage of inhalation injury]. AB - In this experiment, rabbit model with smoke inhalation injury was used. The study was designed to observe the dynamic changes of elastase activities of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN), alveolar macrophages (AM) and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF); and trypsin inhibitory capacities of serum and BALF (STIC & BTIC). The relationships between these changes and acute lung injury, as well as the concomitant changes of arterial blood gas levels, lung water volume and pathomorphology of trachea and lung tissues were also observed. It was found that after injury the elastase activities of PMN and AM were markedly reduced, and the elastase activity of BALF was rapidly increased. STIC was also reduced. PaO2 progressively dropped and PaCO2 progressively increased. Animals showed respiratory distress. Pathomorphological phagocytes aggregations in lungs, pulmonary edema and pneumorrhagia were found. There were serious destructions of capillary endothelial cells, alveolar epithelial cells, basement membranes and interstitial fibers. The number of elastic fibers of parenchyma decreased. The lung water volume was markedly increased, and there was a significant correlation between the increment of extravascular lung water and the rising of elastase activity of BALF. On the basis of our observation, it is proposed that the imbalance of elastase-antiprotease may play an important role in the development of acute lung injury after smoke inhalation. PMID- 2517243 TI - [The main causal agent of posttransfusion non-A, non-B hepatitis is hepatitis C virus]. PMID- 2517244 TI - Synthesis of thyrotropin-releasing hormone-related peptides using N alpha-tert butyloxycarbonyl-omega-(N-tert-butyloxycarbonylcarbamoyl)- alpha-amino acids. AB - Application of N alpha,Nca-di-tert-butyloxycarbonylhomoglutamine to synthesis of thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) analogs was examined. The delta-lactam formation from homoglutaminylpeptides took place more easily than gamma-lactam formation from glutaminylpeptides in water or dioxane containing acetic acid. [pHgu1,Nva2]-TRH had dose-dependent antagonistic activity against pentobarbital anesthesia in mice, but almost no binding activity to TRH receptor in rat brain. PMID- 2517245 TI - Studies on lens-aldose-reductase inhibitor in medicinal plants. II. Active constituents of Monochasma savatierii Franch. et Maxim. AB - The 70% acetone extract of Monochasma savatierii FRANCH. et MAXIM. showed very strong inhibition of rabbit lens aldose reductase (AR). From the active fraction, five iridoid glucosides along with the two phenolic glycosides, acteoside and dehydroacteoside, have been isolated. Among them, acteoside showed the highest activity, being about 2.5 times more potent than baicalein, a known natural inhibitor of AR (IC50 = 9.8 x 10(-7) M). Demethylmussaenoside and 7-O-acetyl-8 epi-loganic acid, which are iridoid glucosides, had weak inhibitory activity. PMID- 2517246 TI - Stereochemical studies on the formation of melanin by monophenol monooxygenase. AB - The oxidation of tyrosine by monophenol monooxygenase (tyrosinase: EC 1.10.3.1) to melanin has been studied by a combination of ultraviolet, circular dichroism, and nuclear magnetic resonance techniques. It is demonstrated that the chiral intermediate (dopachrome) is generated stereoselectively in this enzymic reaction. PMID- 2517247 TI - Collagens of normal and cirrhotic human liver. AB - The collagens of normal and end-stage alcoholic cirrhotic human liver were investigated. Mild conditions of pepsin digestion were employed to preserved the more pepsin sensitive type IV collagen molecules while increasingly more harsh conditions were used which solubilized the type I and type III hepatic collagens. The total hepatic collagen content was elevated from 1.8-2.1 in normal liver to 7.3-8.2 percent in the end-stage alcoholic liver. The graded pepsin digestion resulted in solubilization of 76-90 percent of the total hepatic collagen. The genetically distinct types of collagen were fractionated into types I, III, IV and V preparations using judicious salt precipitation from dilute acid and neutral pH solutions. The average distribution of collagen was 42.5, 39.5, 6.9 and 10.6 percent types I, III, IV and V collagen respectively in normal liver compared to 56.6, 28.0, 5.5 and 9.6 percent respectively in the end-stage alcoholic livers. An additional 0.6 and 0.5 percent in normal and end-stage cirrhotic liver respectively were located in a fraction separating out of the salt concentration required for type VI collagen. The type IV collagen of basement membrane was separated into the constituent 95Kda alpha 1(IV) and alpha 2(IV) polypeptide chains by Agarose A 5m gel filtration with subsequent (carboxymethyl) CM-cellulose chromatography. These chains were indistinguishable from similar chains of type IV collagen isolated previously from human placenta. The type V collagen alpha chains, alpha 1(V) and alpha 2(V) were purified by a combination of Diethylaminoethyl (DEAE) and CM-cellulose chromatography. The individual chains were fragmented with cyanogen bromide to yield 9 peptides from the alpha 1(V) chain and 10 peptides from the alpha 2(V) collagen chain. These were purified and analyzed for amino acid content and molecular weight. The study suggests that all collagen types were elevated in the end-stage alcoholic liver, but type I collagen was disproportionately increased over all other collagens. These results are consistent with previous studies which demonstrated an elevated type I collagen in other fibrotic conditions such as lung fibrosis and hypertrophic scar. They do not, however, agree with the suggested disproportionate elevation of type V collagen in human alcoholic liver. The reasons for this discrepancy are discussed. PMID- 2517248 TI - Expression and distribution of aphidicolin-induced fragile sites in chronic myeloid leukaemia, acute lymphocytic leukaemia and acute myeloid leukaemia. AB - New information is revealed concerning the frequency of expression and distribution of aphidicolin-induced fragile sites in eight leukaemic patients, namely, four chronic myeloid leukaemic patients (CML), three acute lymphocytic leukaemic (ALL) patients, and one acute myeloid leukaemic (AML) patient. The cytogenetic data demonstrate a statistically significant (p less than 10(-6] increase in the frequency of aphidicolin-induced fragile sites in seven of the eight leukaemic patients compared with healthy age-matched and sex-matched controls. The chromosomal band locations of the aphidicolin-induced fragile sites from 400 metaphase spreads of these leukaemic patients reveal a nonrandom distribution in the karyotype. Some aphidicolin-induced fragile sites in these leukaemic patients were located at chromosome bands known to be induced specifically by folic acid, distamycin A, bromodeoxyuridine or azacytidine. The cross-induction of fragile sites in the leukaemic patients may be indicative of shared molecular homology in the sequence composition of nonrandom chromosomal DNA. PMID- 2517249 TI - [Changes in serum amino acids in total parenteral nutrition supported patients with intra abdominal infection]. AB - Serum aminogram changes were prospectively studied in 95 patients with enteric fistula and intraabdominal infection who was under total parenteral nutrition (TPN) therapy with Anfuming 14s. In patients with sepsis and starvation, the aminogram showed remarkably low total free amino acids before TPN therapy. In 81 survivors, free amino acids increased gradually to normal in 2 weeks after use of TPN and in 14 dead cases increased rapidly to a significantly higher peak at terminal stage. Both in survivors and nonsurvivors, phenylalanine level remained high during the study. In response to infection, proline was also elevated but to a lesser degree; the ratio of branched chain amino acid (BCAA) to aromatic amino acid (AAA) was lower than normal and the decrease of arginine was parallel to the severity of infection. We conclude that the ideal amino acids preparation for the starvated and septic patients should be high in BCAA and arginine but low in phenylalanine, administration of inappropriate exogenous amino acids in decompensated metabolic septic patients may bring about more harm than benefit, and in septic patients that the levels of serum phenylalanine and proline are elevated persistently along with the decrease of arginine level is a useful prognostic indication. PMID- 2517250 TI - [Effects of mitomycin C perfusion after bladder tumor surgery]. AB - In the last ten years, 26 cases of bladder tumor in T1-T2 stage have been given Mitomycin C perfusion in cava after operation to prevent tumor recurrence. The results of follow-up for one to eight years showed no recurrence occurred in all 26 cases with Mitomycin C perfusion and in control group (64 cases) 14 had recurrence. The authors consider that Mitomycin C perfusion in a long time is effective for the prevention of recurrence of bladder tumor. The methods and untoward effects of Mitomycin C perfusion are discussed in this article. PMID- 2517252 TI - [Interferon stimulation of DNA reparative synthesis in human cells with an inhibited repair system]. PMID- 2517251 TI - [Myelopathy and radiculopathy in diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis]. AB - Thirty-four patients of diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) were presented. Twenty-four of them were associated with myelopathy or radiculopathy, mainly due to spinal stenosis. Plain X-ray films showed there was spinal flowing or laminated ossification on the anterior or right lateral side, forming continuous bony bridge at least of four vertebral bodies. Ossification occurred both on the spinal and extra-spinal region. Operative findings of 11 cases revealed significant encroachment of the ossified mass on the dural sac, especially at the level of the apophyseal joint. OPLL was found in ten cases. DISH and OPLL may be different manifestations of same entity. In this series, there was not enough evidence of diabetes mellitus related to DISH, and no specific antigen in HLA typing. PMID- 2517253 TI - [Enhancement of the posttraumatic dissociation of descending influences under the suppression of arachidonic acid metabolism]. PMID- 2517254 TI - P-element-mediated enhancer detection applied to the study of oogenesis in Drosophila. AB - We have stained the ovaries of nearly 600 different Drosophila strains carrying single copies of a P-element enhancer detector. This transposon detects neighbouring genomic transcriptional regulatory sequences by means of a beta galactosidase reporter gene. Numerous strains are stained in specific cells and at specific stages of oogenesis and provide useful ovarian markers for cell types that in some cases have not previously been recognized by morphological criteria. Since recent data have suggested that a substantial number of the regulatory elements detected by enhancer detection control neighbouring genes, we discuss the implications of our results concerning ovarian gene expression patterns in Drosophila. We have also identified a small number of insertion-linked recessive mutants that are sterile or lead to ovarian defects. We observe a strong correlation with specific germ line staining patterns in these strains, suggesting that certain patterns are more likely to be associated with female sterile genes than others. On the basis of our results, we suggest new strategies, which are not primarily based on the generation of mutants, to screen for and isolated female sterile genes. PMID- 2517255 TI - Development of adult sensilla on the wing and notum of Drosophila melanogaster. AB - We have investigated the temporal pattern of appearance, cell lineage, and cytodifferentiation of selected sensory organs (sensilla) of adult Drosophila. This analysis was facilitated by the discovery that the monoclonal antibody 22C10 labels not only the neuron of the developing sensillum organ, but the accessory cells as well. The precursors of the macrochaetes and the recurved (chemosensory) bristles of the wing margin divide around and shortly after puparium formation, while those of the microchaetes and the stout and slender (mechanosensory) bristles of the wing margin divide between 9 h and 18 h after puparium formation (apf). The onset of sensillum differentiation follows the terminal precursor division within a few hours. Four of the cells in an individual microchaete organ are clonally related: A single first-order precursor cell divides to produce two second-order precursors; one of these divides into the neuron and thecogen cell, the other into the trichogen cell and tormogen cell. Along the anterior wing margin, two rounds of division generate the cells of the mechanosensory sensilla; here, no strict clonal relationship seems to exist between the cells of an individual sensillum. At the time of sensillum precursor division, many other, non-sensillum-producing cells within the notum and wing proliferate as well. This mitotic activity follows a spatially non-random pattern. PMID- 2517256 TI - Expression of a Drosophila mRNA is under circadian clock control during pupation. AB - Rhythmic eclosion of Drosophila adults requires per gene function. We have found that a previously identified 0.9 kb RNA transcribed from DNA adjacent to per becomes abundantly expressed during pupation, just prior to eclosion. The daily synchronized emergence of young adults, coupled with a subsequent rapid decay of the transcript, is responsible for what previously appeared to be cycling of the 0.9 kb RNA in adults. In situ hybridization analyses localize the 0.9 kb transcript to the epidermis of newly eclosed adults. Conceptual translation of genomic DNA and cDNA sequences predicts that the 0.9 kb transcript produces a 261 amino acid protein containing a putative signal sequence for membrane transport at its amino terminus. Pupae that reach the same stage of development at slightly different times of day show a subsequent synchronized rise in 0.9 kb RNA levels, indicating that the expression of this transcript is under circadian clock control. PMID- 2517258 TI - The effect of pregnant mares serum gonadotrophin on the response of DMBA induced rat mammary tumours to tamoxifen or oestrogen. AB - Ovariectomized and intact rats bearing mammary tumours, induced with 7,12 dimethylbenz(a)anthracene, were treated with diethylstilboestrol (DES), tamoxifen and pregnant mares serum gonadotrophin (PMSG) alone or in various combinations. In ovariectomized animals, PMSG (100 iu daily) alone, or with DES (50 micrograms) or tamoxifen (50 micrograms), slowed tumour regression. Mean tumour volume after 5 weeks was larger than control (P less than 0.05) in animals treated with PMSG + DES but not with PMSG or PMSG + tamoxifen. In intact animals, PMSG (200 iu bd, but not 2 or 20 iu bd) slowed tumour growth (P less than 0.05) and PMSG (2 or 200 iu bd) reversed the tumour inhibiting effect of tamoxifen (200 micrograms). PMSG (2 iu bd), in contrast to 20 and 200 iu doses, showed no evidence of oestrogen stimulation. It is suggested that the reversal of the tumour inhibiting effect of tamoxifen by this low dose of PMSG may be of relevance to failure of tamoxifen treatment and to 'tamoxifen flare'. PMID- 2517257 TI - Effect of nitro-substitution of environmental polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons on activities of hepatic phase II enzymes in rats. AB - A series of environmentally occurring nitro-polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (nitro-PAHs) including those containing nitro-groups oriented coplanarly to the aromatic rings, such as 1- and 3-nitrobenzo[a]pyrene (1- and 3-NBAP), 6 nitrochrysene, and 1- and 4-nitropyrene, and those with a molecular orientation of the nitro-groups perpendicular to the aromatic moieties, such as 7 nitrobenz[a]anthracene and 6-nitrobenzo[a]pyrene (6-NBAP), were used to study the induction of certain rat hepatic phase II conjugating enzymes. Effects of these two different classes of nitro-PAHs on microsomal UDP-glucuronyltransferase (UDPGT), cytosolic glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) and sulfotransferases (STs) were investigated. After three consecutive daily i.p. injections, 1- and 3-NBAP and 6-nitrochrysene significantly increased the activities of UDPGT and GST, whereas their parent PAHs did not induce UDPGT (and GST activity was also unaltered by benzo[a]pyrene). UDPGT and GST activities were also significantly increased by 1-nitropyrene. In contrast, the sulfotransferases directed to 2 naphthol were not significantly induced by any PAH or nitro-PAH when assayed at either pH 5.5 or 7.5; however, the activities of aryl STs III and IV (pH 5.5) were significantly decreased following treatment with pyrene and two nitro compounds, 6-NBAP and 7-nitrobenz[a]anthracene, in which the nitro-group is oriented perpendicular to the aromatic moiety. These results indicate that a coplanar orientation of the nitro-group of certain nitrated PAHs facilitates the induction of hepatic phase II enzymes by these compounds in rats, and the comparable induction patterns for P450IA1, UDPGT, and GST provide further evidence supporting the coordinate regulation (through the Ah receptor) of these phase I and phase II activities. PMID- 2517260 TI - Molecular genetic aspects of sex determination in Drosophila melanogaster. AB - The molecular analyses of three of the regulatory genes (transformer (tra), doublesex (dsx), and transformer-2 (tra-2)) controlling sexual differentiation in Drosophila have demonstrated that the control of RNA processing has a major role in regulating somatic sexual differentiation. The activities of both the tra and dsx genes are controlled at the level of RNA processing. In the case of tra the use of different splice acceptor sites results in a functional transcript being produced only in females, whereas at dsx the use of different splice acceptor sites in the two sexes results in the production of transcripts that encode different proteins in males and females. The tra-2 gene has been shown to be necessary for the processing of the dsx pre-mRNA in females and the conceptual translation of a tra-2 cDNA shows that it encodes a protein with similarity to a family of RNA-binding proteins which includes known splicesome components. We previously suggested that the pattern of sexual differentiation and dosage compensation characteristic of a male was a default regulatory state. The findings reviewed here provide a molecular basis for this default expression in males as well as an insight into how females differ from males in control of the expression of these genes. For both the tra and dsx genes the molecular basis of their male (default) state of expression appears to be the processing of their transcripts by the housekeeping RNA splicing machinery.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2517259 TI - Direct measurement of mutational spectra in humans. AB - By combining high fidelity in vitro DNA amplification and mutant DNA sequence separation by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis, we are able to directly observe mutational hotspots in human genomic DNA. Our technological development has progressed through the stage of identifying mutant sequences in independently derived, 6-thioguanine-resistant human B cells. We are now analyzing uncloned, complex populations derived from several thousand 6-thioguanine-resistant cells and report preliminary data concerning the mutational spectra of benzo[a]pyrene diol epoxide and ultraviolet light in exon 3 of the hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase gene. In addition, the approach appears to be general for any gene sequence for which a means to select mutants exists. The more global need to eliminate phenotypic selection is, however, our primary impetus. Our analysis leads us to conclude that no known in vitro DNA polymerase has sufficient fidelity to permit direct observation of unselected mutants. Therefore, an additional change in technology will be necessary to observe nonselected mutant DNA sequences at the low frequencies found in human tissues. PMID- 2517261 TI - Expression of the small heat shock genes during Drosophila development: comparison of the accumulation of hsp23 and hsp27 mRNAs and polypeptides. AB - Seven heat shock genes are clustered within 15 kilobases of DNA at the Drosophila melanogaster chromosomal site 67B. They show a complex pattern of expression in the absence of external stress during normal development of this organism. In this paper, we quantitatively compare the abundance of the messenger RNAs for these seven genes at all major stages of Drosophila development and then focus on hsp23 and hsp27 for which available antibodies allow the comparison between the accumulation of the mRNAs and that of their corresponding polypeptides. Transcripts for both genes are maximally abundant in white prepupae. We observe that the amount of hsp23 message decreases more rapidly than that of hsp27 mRNA throughout the pupal period. The maximal abundance of the proteins occurs at the middle of the pupal stage, when their corresponding RNAs have almost completely disappeared. The peaks of expression of the proteins are also broader than those of their transcripts, indicating that the half-lives of the polypeptides are longer. These observations suggest that complex mechanisms regulate the expression of the small heat shock genes during Drosophila development. PMID- 2517262 TI - The 93D heat shock locus of Drosophila melanogaster: modulation by genetic and developmental factors. AB - The 93D locus in Drosophila melanogaster and the 93D-like loci in other species of Drosophila, collectively termed hsr omega (heat shock RNA omega) locus, display several unique and intriguing features: (i) developmental regulation and selective induction by several agents like benzamide, colchicine, thiamphenicol, vit-B6; (ii) functional conservation in the genus but a very rapid DNA base sequence divergence; (iii) in spite of the rapid DNA sequence divergence, a strong conservation of organization (a 5' unique region and a 3' long tandem repeat region) and the pattern of multiple omega transcripts in the genus; (iv) a general nontranslatability of all the three major species of omega transcripts (an approximately 10-kb omega 1, a 2.0-kb omega 2, and a 1.2-kb omega 3 species) although some recent evidence favours translatability of a small open reading frame (approximately 23-27 amino acid long) in the omega 3 transcript; (v) dispensability of the hsr omega locus for heat shock protein synthesis but indispensability for viability of flies. The heat shock inducibility of the 93D locus of D. melanogaster is selectively repressed by (i) combination of heat shock with another inducer of 93D; (ii) rearing of larvae at 10 degrees C; (iii) heterozygous deficiency for the 93D region; and (iv) conditions that alter levels of beta-alanine. In all cases of repression of the 93D locus during heat shock, the 87A and 87C loci (the two duplicate loci harbouring multiple copies for hsp70 and the alpha-beta repeat sequences (at 87C)) develop unequal puffs.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2517263 TI - Molecular population genetics of structural variants of esterase 6 in Drosophila melanogaster. AB - Several lines of evidence indicate that natural selection operates between the major EST6-F and EST6-S allozymes of Drosophila melanogaster. In particular, consistent latitudinal clines and seasonal variation in their relative frequencies strongly suggest that they are not selectively equivalent in field populations. Several laboratory studies have found frequency-dependent fitness differences among the Est6-F and Est6-S genotypes. Moreover, the purified EST6-F and EST6-S allozymes differ in biochemical properties and the physiology of the enzyme, as a major component of the seminal fluid, suggests that these differences could affect reproductive aspects of fitness. However, molecular analyses reveal high levels of variation in the EST6 protein both within and between the EST6-F and EST6-S allozymes. Limited thermostability and more sensitive electrophoretic analyses reveal at least 17 variants of the two allozymes and sequence comparisons among 13 isolates of the Est6 gene reveal 16 nucleotide polymorphisms that would lead to amino acid differences. Two closely linked amino acid differences are strongly associated with the major difference between EST6-F and EST6-S; either or both of these are likely to cause the observed biochemical differences between EST6-F and EST6-S and may be the primary targets for the selection between these allozymes. The functional and adaptive significance of the other amino acid polymorphisms is unclear, although the data suggest that the EST6-8 haplotype within EST6-S has both arisen and proliferated relatively recently. PMID- 2517264 TI - Endogenous release of interferon-gamma and diminished response of peripheral blood mononuclear cells to antigenic stimulation. AB - The capacity of T lymphocytes to proliferate in response to stimulation and the amount of representative lymphokines produced in vitro often correlate with the immunocompetence of patients. However, direct and indirect measurement of endogenous interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) brings some evidence that decreased in vitro production of IFN-gamma by T lymphocytes is associated with increased concentrations in vivo. The data indicate that both a functional inhibition of IFN-gamma and its continuous presence at high levels may result in hyporesponsiveness or unresponsiveness of immune cells. A possible role of IFN gamma in the induction of tolerance is discussed. PMID- 2517265 TI - Rosette formation between immobilised human lymphocytes and erythrocytes sensitised with monoclonal anti-D. AB - A rapid, reproducible and sensitive assay was developed to investigate the ability of human lymphocytes to form rosettes with erythrocytes sensitised with human monoclonal anti-D. Erythrocytes sensitised with a known number of anti-D molecules per cell were incubated with lymphocytes immobilised on plastic by poly(L-lysine), the resulting rosettes fixed, unbound erythrocytes removed by washing and the cell preparation stained. IgG1 and IgG3 anti-D-coated erythrocytes gave similar rosette formation at sensitisation levels in the range of 5000-15,000 molecules per cell, although at lower sensitisation levels IgG3 gave greater rosette formation than IgG1. A minimum of 500 IgG3 and 1000 IgG1 anti-D molecules per erythrocyte were required for rosetting. PMID- 2517266 TI - A comparative study of anti-Trypanosoma cruzi serum obtained in acute and chronic phase of infection in mice. AB - The IgG antibody content, specificity, lytic activity, clearance capacity and protective ability of mouse anti-Trypanosoma cruzi serum was determined during the course of infection. The IgG antibody content increased during the course of infection, reaching its highest level in the serum collected in the chronic phase of the infection. The T. cruzi antigens recognized by antibodies using the protein transfer technique also increased with time of infection. Antibodies present in day 22 post-infection (p.i.) serum were already able to recognize all the antigens detected by antibodies present in serum from the chronic phase. The lytic and clearance ability were not detected on day 7 p.i., but appeared on day 14 p.i. and reached their highest level on day 45 p.i. The protective ability was present in serum of the chronic phase, but was absent from the acute serum. The IgG antibody content of the acute serum was four times less than that of the chronic serum. When the IgG antibody concentration of the acute serum was equalized to that of the chronic serum, the acute serum was as able to protect the infected animals as the chronic serum. It is suggested that the disagreement between the protective ability of anti-T. cruzi antisera collected in the acute or in the chronic phase of the infection is due to a quantitative rather than a qualitative difference. PMID- 2517267 TI - Glycosaminoglycan (GAG) level and activities of certain enzymes of GAG metabolism in Culex quinquefasciatus and Setaria digitata. AB - Significant differences were observed in GAG metabolism of S. digitata and one of its intermediate vectors, C. quinquefasciatus. Distribution of different components such as hyaluronic acid, heparin-sulphate, chondroitin-4-sulphate, chondroitin-6-sulphate, dermatan sulphate and heparin was comparable in both. However, there were quantitative differences; the difference was marked in the activity of enzymes of GAG metabolism in presence and absence of diethylcarbamazine (DEC) a known antifilarial drug. While the activities of beta galactosidase and beta-N-acetyl glucosaminidase of S. digitata systems showed an inhibition of 96.5 and 92.6% respectively, in the Culex systems they showed an inhibition of 93.3% and an activation of 18% respectively. The differences clearly indicate the existence of basic differences in GAG metabolism of vector and parasite. PMID- 2517268 TI - Precocious desynapsis of XY-bivalent in mouse germinal cells: influence of mitomycin C on tumour-bearing and normal mice. AB - A comparative study on the cytotoxic potential of anticancer-antibiotic mitomycin C has been made on tumour-bearing and normal mice considering precocious desynapsis of sex bivalent as parameter. The study indicates a strikingly differential effect of the drug on the phenomenon in two different types of mice. The administration of mitomycin C at therapeutic dose although enhances the frequency of precocious desynapsis of XY-bivalent in non-tumour (normal) mice to a significant extent (compared to control), the same drug at the same dose fails to produce a similar effect on tumour-bearing specimens. Discussions have been made on: (i) the probable cause for this differential effect, (ii) the mechanism of mitomycin action on precocious desynapsis of sex bivalent and, (iii) the possible significance of the findings in relation to cancer chemotherapy. PMID- 2517269 TI - Interaction of EDTA with tributyltin induced cellular toxicity. AB - Tributyltin inhibited the growth of cells in concentration dependent manner. The inhibitory effect of tributyltin on E. coli was enhanced in the presence of metal ion chelator, EDTA. This was due to EDTA induced increase of permeability of bacterial cell envelope to tributyltin. In case of EDTA treated cells the rate of uptake of tributyltin was more pronounced as compared to control. PMID- 2517271 TI - Blood histaminase in phlyctenulosis. AB - Blood Histaminase estimations were done in 42 cases of phlyctenulosis and 25 normal subjects. Significantly higher level of blood Histaminase was found in patients of phlyctenulosis, which may be a consequence of its induction secondary to increased release of histamine in the early phase of disease. PMID- 2517270 TI - Successfully treated primary anthrax meningitis. PMID- 2517272 TI - [Ethics and health policy]. PMID- 2517273 TI - [Factors associated with drug prescription]. AB - The ascertainment of the factors that directly or indirectly influence the prescription of medication is a starting point to set up different strategies focused on the improvement of the utilization of medications. The purpose of this work is to assess which factors, closely related with physicians, with the population they cover, as well as with the health care infrastructure of our "Area of Management" (health district), are significantly associated with the prescription of medication, as well as to ascertain if there is, in our environment, a defined profile of those physicians having higher prescription rates. Using the Institut Catala de la Salut (ICS) database, and through with the use linear multiple regression, it can be shown that: a) the expense due to medications is higher in those sectors having a larger number of physicians per 1,000 inhabitants; and b) a profile of large prescriptions cannot be established based on the variables selected in this study. PMID- 2517274 TI - [Tuberculous infection in Sagunto: infection indicators and study of tuberculin positive children contacts]. AB - After having ascertained their relevance, epidemiologic indicators of tuberculosis infection were calculated in the area of coverage of a district hospital. For this purpose, a tuberculinic survey was undertaken among students of 2nd. and 8th. grade (EGB) and among those of 1st. grade during two consecutive courses. A prevalence of 2.08% (+/- 1.08%) in 1st. grade (in 1986-87), of 1.18% (+/- 0.87%) in 1st. grade (in 1987-88), of 1.13% (+/- 0.79%) in 2nd. grade (in 1987-88) and of 2.19% (+/- 1.10%) in 8th grade (in 1987-88). The annual incidence of infection in the studied period was 0. The Annual Risk of Infection (ARI) was lower than 0.12% with an annual reduction of 57%. This is the first time that indicators of infection are obtained in a population of the region of Valencia, and are compared with other populations. We outline the benefits of the investigation of the source of infection and of the family contacts. Fourty-eight Mantoux (+) children were detected, of which 8 had tuberculosis, 1 had residual lesions, and the remaining ones were at the infectious stage. Among the 105 studied adults, 60 were Mantoux (+), of which 6 had tuberculosis, 2 of them were smear (+) and 5 had residual lesions. Chemoprophylaxis was initiated in 14 cases. PMID- 2517275 TI - [Usefulness of sectorization of pediatric hospital emergency units in the community of Madrid]. AB - We have studied the procedence of the children that came to the Emergency Department of the Nino Jesus Hospital, analyzing if they belonged to the pediatric emergency area corresponding to this hospital, the procedence from the different postal districts of Madrid, from other localities of the Madrid Community, or from the Health Areas of this Community. We found that only 12.42% of the children came from the corresponding area of the emergency care sectorization, and that they came from very disperse zones, having no clear relation with any of the Health Care Areas. We conclude that current sectorization of the pediatric emergencies in hospitals is not being usefull, and we suggest alternative solutions. PMID- 2517276 TI - [Self-medication and pharmacologic compliance at a primary care center]. AB - The prevalence of reported self-medication and compliance and some associated factors in patients 25 and over years of age attending a primary health center is studied using the case finding method, during the period of March-December, 1987. Self-medication was reported by 48% of patients (41% were taking one drug and 7% two drugs). Nervous system drugs were the most common pharmacologic group over the counter. As for compliance of prescribed drugs, 81% reported to take their medication in the prescribed way at least 3 out of 4 times. Younger patients reported more self-medication. Non compliance was more frequent in members of larger families. No other statistical differences were found. We conclude that the patients in our practice report a high level of self-medication and also a high level of compliance of prescribed drugs. These data are to be taken into account for the planning of future health programs targeted to the use of drugs in our community. PMID- 2517277 TI - [Multihospital systems and their reality in Catalonia]. AB - The objective of this article is to compare the development of hospital systems in USA with multi-hospitals or other hospital association formulas that currently exist in Catalonia. Our purpose is to check if the theory, that has influenced the development of these hospital systems in US is consistent with the hospital systems in Catalonia, specifically in the cases of: Consorci Hospitalari de Catalunya, Unio Catalana d'Hospitals, future Consorci d'Hospitals de Barcelona, among others. In addition we analyze the consequences that would appear if the Public Hospital Network of Catalonia (xarxa hospitalaria d'utilitzacio publica: XHUP) (1) is considered as a hospital system; that is, considering this Hospital Network as a hospital system in coexistence with other preexistent hospitals, could take advantage in the financial management as well as in the introduction in the market simulation systems to stimulate the efficiency in the provision of public hospitals. PMID- 2517278 TI - [Migrations and mental health: reminder]. PMID- 2517279 TI - [The use of drugs in prisons]. PMID- 2517280 TI - [The social need of clinical information and document delivery]. PMID- 2517281 TI - [Use of activity and morbidity registries in separate formats]. PMID- 2517282 TI - [Initial results of adjuvant portal liver infusion following radical surgery of colorectal cancer (Swiss Study Group for Epidemiologic and Clinical Cancer Research Study 40/81)]. AB - Between July 1981 and June 1987, 533 patients from 7 participating institutions have been entered in a prospective randomized trial to assess the value of adjuvant portal infusion (5-Fluorouracil 500 mg/m2/d x 7 continuous infusion + Mitomycin-C 10 mg/m2 on day 1 as a bolus injection through portal venous catheter) compared to radical surgery alone. The portal venous catheter was placed through any side-branch of the mesenteric venous system during laparotomy for the primary tumour. Using the transabdominal route, there have been no catheter-related complications. Overall hospital mortality in the study was 1.75% and was not influenced by adjuvant treatment. Analysis of 469 eligible patients at a median follow-up of 48 months revealed 39.1% recurrencies in the control group and 31.8% in the infusion group (p = 0.09, logrank). Median survival of control patients is 72 months, of chemotherapy treated patients not yet reached. Significant survival advantages have been detected for those 195 (85%) patients who received full-dose adjuvant chemotherapy (67% versus 53% 5-year survival). Due to the low number of deaths in this trial, prolonged follow-up is needed for definitive survival conclusions. PMID- 2517283 TI - [Experiences with early postoperative enteral tube feeding]. AB - Over a period of 2 years 234 patients scheduled for major intraabdominal surgery were fed postoperatively via fine needle jejunostomy catheter. Nutrition ensued directly after surgery. Mean period of nutrition was 7.8 +/- 1.5 days. Care of the catheter was simple and secure. Compatibility with formula nutrition was good. Pertaining to catheter related complications, 25 patients presented diarrhoea, which was generally tolerable. Occasionally, flatulence and nausea occurred. In one patient, catheter nourishment had to be discontinued because of diarrhoea. One further discontinuation occurred due to postoperative non-catheter related ileus. Clinical postoperative progress and laboratory findings showed no negative results relating to this form of nutrition. PMID- 2517284 TI - Mode of inheritance of major genes controlling life span differences between two inbred strains of Drosophila melanogaster. AB - Although life span is generally considered to be under polygenic control, we obtained experimental evidence of Mendelian genes exerting major effects on life span differences between two inbred strains of Drosophila melanogaster. Our data indicate two loci with major effects, one being autosomal and the other sex linked. The alleles at the autosomal locus are designated A1 and A2, the latter producing longer life. Heterozygotes, A1A2, exhibit over-dominance. The alleles at the sex-linked locus, designated X1 and X2, produce life-extending effects. X1 revealed a dosage effect, causing homozygous females to live longer than hemizygous males; X2 showed no dosage effect. The identified genes are considered to control the period of activity of many genes maintaining life. PMID- 2517285 TI - Genetics of inbred Drosophila melanogaster. XXI. Re-reversion in the strength of R-elements. AB - In tests of the I-R hybrid dysgenesis system in Drosophila melanogaster we have in former tests examined the transition from strong to weak R-type by modifying the breeding protocol as regards the generation length, achieved by collecting parental flies from early or late egg-laying. To examine if independent occurrence of weak R-elements showed similar or different response at re reversion of the generation interval, four sublines were tested. It was found that transition from long to short generation interval eventually resulted in a stepwise change to strong R-type. The change towards strong R-type occurred at a slightly slower rate than we earlier found in the opposite direction at transfer towards weak R-type. From lines bred at 14 days generation interval at 25 degrees C we kept, as a safeguard, branches at 18 degrees C. After 27 generations, tests of the strength of the R-reactivity revealed that various cytoplasms showed a depressed R-reactivity with no heterogeneity between sister lines. Return of sub branches from 18 degrees to 25 degrees C for a couple of short generations (14 days) or a single long generation (28 days) showed results indicating heteroplasmy for weak and strong R-type elements in the branches kept at 18 degrees C. The vulnerability of the R-elements is a useful model for tests of extrachromosomal heredity, which may shed light on the problems involved in identifying other extrachromosomal systems. PMID- 2517287 TI - Epiphrenic diverticulum of the oesophagus. AB - A case of asymptomatic, large, epiphrenic diverticulum of oesophagus associated with sliding hiatus hernia and gall stones is reported. PMID- 2517286 TI - Genetics of inbred Drosophila melanogaster. XXII. Cytoplasmic influence on recombination. AB - To examine the possible influence of various sources of cytoplasms on recombination in the major part of the X-chromosome in Drosophila melanogaster, tests were performed in intra- and inter-line crosses. Two to six sister lines of various types were included. It was shown that cytoplasms of various sources could have different effects in the distal y-cx region but not in the mid (cx-v) or the sub-proximal (v-f) regions in both intra- and inter-line crosses. There were no diversities between sister-lines that had been separated for over 100 generations. Tests of two sets of sister-lines with the same source of cytoplasm in which different genomes had been introduced confirmed the earlier finding that there is an interaction of chromosomal and cytoplasmic influences on recombination. It is shown that changes in one extrachromosomal element (R elements) had no demonstrable consequences on the effect on recombination. The necessity to consider cytoplasmic-bound variability is stressed. PMID- 2517288 TI - Phenytoin--isoniazid interaction. PMID- 2517289 TI - Haemoglobin E and A2 in agricultural and migratory populations of West Bengal. A preliminary report. AB - A total of 424 blood samples were collected from two distinct populations. Local agricultural group and migratory industrial workers of West Bengal were compared with respect to haemoglobin, ABO and Rh systems. There was absence of any significant genetic difference in case of haemoglobin system. PMID- 2517290 TI - Juvenile diabetes manifesting as epilepsia partialis continua. AB - Epilepsia partialis continua was the chief initial complaint in a young diabetic who was found to have hyperosmolar non ketotic hyperglycaemia. Such a presentation in a juvenile diabetic is rare. Literature relevant to this interesting neurologic disturbance has been briefly reviewed. PMID- 2517291 TI - Prolonged symptomatology in brain tuberculoma. PMID- 2517292 TI - Persistence of major nuclear envelope antigens in an envelope-like structure during mitosis in Drosophila melanogaster embryos. AB - Using monoclonal antibodies, we followed the fate of three different nuclear envelope proteins during mitosis in Drosophila early embryos by indirect immunofluorescence microscopy. Two of these proteins, lamin and otefin, a newly characterized nuclear envelope polypeptide with an apparent Mr of 53,000, are apparently present in an envelope-like structure that is present throughout mitosis. Immunoelectron microscopy of interphase nuclei indicates that otefin, like lamin, is not a component of nuclear pore complexes. In contrast with lamin and otefin, gp188, a putative pore complex component, was completely redistributed through the surrounding cytoplasm during prophase in comparable early embryo specimens and was present in an envelope only in interphase. Together with previous morphological studies by other workers, these data suggest that the entire mitotic apparatus including condensed chromosomes and spindle is enclosed by an envelope throughout mitosis during early embryogenesis in Drosophila. This 'spindle envelope', as it has been named by others, contains both lamin and otefin but probably not pore complex proteins. PMID- 2517293 TI - Retinoic acid-induced inhibition of lung colonization and changes in the synthesis and properties of glycosaminoglycans of metastatic B16 melanoma cells. AB - The effect of all-trans retinoic acid on metastatic B16 melanoma lung colonization and synthesis and properties of glycosaminoglycans was examined. Injection of tumour cells, pretreated with 10(-6) M-retinoic acid or grown to low density, into the tail vein of syngeneic C57 mice produced significantly fewer pulmonary tumours compared to subconfluent control cells. By cochromatography of glycosaminoglycans isolated from control ([14C]glucosamine-labelled) and 10(-6) M retinoic acid-treated ([3H]glucosamine-labelled) cells on DEAE ion-exchange columns, differences in elution profiles were detected. Chondroitin sulphates isolated from retinoic acid-treated cells eluted at a lower salt concentration than those from control cells, while retinoic acid-treated cells synthesised heparan sulphates of a higher charge density than heparans from control cultures. These changes were apparent in both medium and trypsin-releasable fractions. Retinoic acid-treated cultures were seeded so that they were of a similar density to control cultures when harvested, as cell density was shown to affect glycosaminoglycan synthesis, the glycosaminoglycans from low-density cultures having similar properties to those isolated from retinoic acid-treated cultures. Retinoic acid treatment also reduced the overall synthesis of glycosaminoglycans while having little effect on the composition or distribution between medium, trypsin-releasable and cell-associated fractions. These observed changes in glycosaminoglycans may, in part, be responsible for retinoic acid-induced inhibition of lung colonization, and reduced adhesion to basement membrane components, which we have previously demonstrated. PMID- 2517294 TI - High-dose follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) ovarian stimulation in low-responder patients for in vitro fertilization. AB - Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) was used in high doses (6 ampoules/day:6FSH) for ovarian hyperstimulation for in vitro fertilization in women with a previous poor response to stimulation with the equivalent of "4FSH." Luteinizing hormone levels did not differ between stimulations, but both FSH and estradiol levels were higher in the 6FSH compared to the 4FSH cycle. There were fewer cancellations in the 6FSH cycle, but similar numbers of preovulatory oocytes were retrieved, fertilized, and transferred. The pregnancy rates per attempt and retrieval were higher in the 6FSH cycle. We conclude that raising and maintaining FSH levels during stimulation in low responders reduced cancellations and may improve in vitro fertilization outcome. PMID- 2517295 TI - Impact of leuprolide acetate on the response to follicular stimulation for in vitro fertilization in patients with normal basal gonadotropin levels. AB - Fifteen women with normal basal gonadotropin levels and adequate responses to conventional gonadotropin stimulation for in vitro fertilization (IVF) were pretreated with leuprolide acetate (LA) beginning in the midluteal phase prior to a repeat IVF attempt. A significantly longer duration of stimulation requiring a significantly higher total dosage of gonadotropins was observed in LA cycles. The number of preovulatory oocytes retrieved and preembryos transferred was significantly higher in LA cycles. Six of 15 women (40%) had cryopreservation of supernumerary preembryos in LA cycles, versus none in non-LA cycles; 22% of preovulatory oocytes aspirated in LA cycles were available for cryopreservation for future transfer. Five pregnancies occurred in the 15 LA cycles. IVF patients with normal basal gonadotropin levels and normal responses to conventional gonadotropin stimulation benefit from LA pretreatment. PMID- 2517296 TI - Elective preembryo cryopreservation in ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. PMID- 2517297 TI - Surface hydrophobicity of spores of Bacillus spp. AB - The surface hydrophobicity of 12 strains of Bacillus spp. was examined in a hexadecane-aqueous partition system. Mature and germinated spores of Bacillus megaterium QM B1551 transferred to the hexadecane layer, while vegetative and sporulating cells did not. Wild-type spores were more hydrophobic than spores of an exosporium-deficient mutant of B. megaterium QM B1551, although the mutant spores were shown to be hydrophobic to some extent by using increased volumes of hexadecane. This result suggests that the exosporium is more hydrophobic than the spore coat and that the surface hydrophobicity of spores depends mainly on components of the exosporium. The surface hydrophobicity of spores of nine other species of Bacillus was also examined, and spores having an exosporium were more hydrophobic than those lacking an exosporium. Thus measurement of the hydrophobicity of spores by the hexadecane partition method may provide a simple and rapid preliminary means of determining the presence or absence of an exosporium. PMID- 2517298 TI - Biochemical analysis of the Bacillus subtilis 1604 spore germination response. AB - Germination at 37 degrees C of spores of Bacillus subtilis 1604 in the L-alanine and potassium phosphate (ALA) and the glucose, fructose, L-asparagine, potassium chloride (GFAK) germinant systems was triggered following heat activation at 70 degrees C for 1 h. In these conditions, 50% of the spore population became committed to germinate after exposure for 10 min and 14 min to ALA and GFAK, respectively, at which time 38% and 30% losses of OD600 had taken place. Dipicolinic acid (DPA) release, loss of heat resistance and release of soluble hexosamine-containing fragments occurred after commitment and were closely associated with loss of refractility in both the ALA and GFAK pathways. Net ATP synthesis could not be detected until 3-4 min after initiation of germination in both ALA and GFAK, by which time greater than 20% of the spore population was committed to germinate. The ALA and GFAK germination pathways were greater than 99% inhibited by 3 and 1 mM-HgCl2, respectively, as measured by OD600 loss. Reversible post-commitment HgCl2-sensitive sites were present in the ALA and GFAK pathways which were 50% inhibited by 0.125 mM and 0.05 mM-HgCl2, respectively. A pre-commitment HgCl2-sensitive site was identified in the ALA pathway which was 55% inhibited by 6 mM-HgCl2. At 3 mM-HgCl2, 70% of the spore population became committed to germinate in the ALA pathway, whereas less than 5% OD600 loss occurred. In this system, loss of heat resistance was associated with commitment, whereas OD600 loss and DPA release were identified as post-commitment events. The ALA and GFAK pathways were insensitive to a variety of metabolic inhibitors. Protease inhibitors had different effects on the ALA and GFAK pathways: phenylmethanesulphonyl fluoride (PMSF) solely inhibited ALA germination at a pre commitment site and had little effect on GFAK germination, whereas N alpha-p tosyl-L-arginine methyl ester (TAME) inhibited both the ALA and GFAK pathways at pre- and post-commitment sites. These results are discussed in relation to a recently proposed model for the triggering of Bacillus megaterium KM spore germination. PMID- 2517299 TI - Glycolipids of recent clinical isolates of Mycobacterium tuberculosis: chemical characterization and immunoreactivity. AB - Five distinct glycolipids were readily detected in isolates of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Spectroscopic methods and chemical degradation techniques allowed the structural identification of four of these glycolipids. The specific phenolic glycolipid antigen previously characterized from the Canetti strain was found in all the strains examined, with identical structural features (triglycosyl phenol phthiocerol dimycocerosate). The other three glycolipids identified were acylated trehaloses: penta-acyl trehalose (containing phthienoyl substituents), tetra-acyl trehalose 2'-sulphate (with C40-C50 hydroxyphthioceranoyl substituents) and diacyl trehalose 2'-sulphate (with C16 and C18 substituents). The two latter glycolipids as well as the phenolic glycolipid immunoreacted with whole-cell antiserum, indicating their surface location. The occurrence of these glycolipid antigens in recent clinical isolates suggests their possible utilization in the serodiagnosis of tuberculosis and the rapid identification of M. tuberculosis with specific antisera. PMID- 2517300 TI - Increased platelet aggregation and intracellular calcium in hypertensive patients: effects of cyclo-oxygenase blockade. AB - Increased platelet aggregation induced by ADP and arachidonic acid was observed in 12 patients with essential hypertension compared with 12 control subjects, but not after pretreatment with acetylsalicylic acid. The increase in intracellular calcium induced by ADP was also greater in the hypertensive patients, and again this difference disappeared after cyclo-oxygenase blockade. Urinary excretion of 2,3-dinor-thromboxane B2, the main metabolite of platelet thromboxane A2, was slightly, but not significantly increased in the hypertensive patients. These data suggest that thromboxane system activity is increased in the platelets of hypertensive patients. PMID- 2517301 TI - Decreased fibrinolytic response to adrenergic stimulation in hypertensive patients. AB - The aim of this study was to assess the function of the fibrinolytic system at rest and in response to adrenergic stimulation in patients with stable essential hypertension as compared with normotensives. At rest, essential arterial hypertensives were characterized by increased levels of circulating tissue plasminogen activator, associated with an increased activity of its specific inhibitor, the PAI-1. After stress, fibrinolytic response was impaired in essential arterial hypertensives despite a greater release of tissue plasminogen activator by endothelial cells. Therefore, the PAI-1 activity may be increased in essential arterial hypertensives not only at rest, but also after stress. This may represent a risk factor for hypertensive patients. PMID- 2517302 TI - Renin immunization and angiotensin converting enzyme inhibition in the normotensive marmoset. PMID- 2517303 TI - In vitro tuberculostatic activities of some 2-benzylbenzimidazole and 2 phenoxymethylbenzimidazole derivatives. AB - Some 2-benzylbenzimidazole and 2-phenoxymethylbenzimidazole derivatives were synthesized and tested for in vitro tuberculostatic activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis H 37 Rv. and human type wild strain (protocol n degrees.4186). The synthesized compounds have one of the CH3, Cl, NO2 or OCH3 groups at position 5 and 4' and are prepared by heating appropriate o phenylenediamines with the carboxylic acids in the presence of 4.5N HCl. The experiments indicate that 2-phenoxymethylbenzimidazoles were more active than the corresponding 2-benzylbenzimidazoles. The most active compound was 5-chloro-2 phenoxymethylbenzimidazole (IIc) (MIC: 125 micrograms/ml). PMID- 2517305 TI - Purification and properties of the beta-glucosidase from a nitrile hydratase producing Brevibacterium sp. strain R312. AB - Besides its nitrile hydratase and wide spectrum amidase activities, the Brevibacterium sp. R312 strain also possesses a constitutive beta-glucosidase. Its optimum pH is 6. The enzyme was purified by fractionation precipitation with ammonium sulfate followed by chromatographic elutions on Q-Sepharose Fast Flow, Sephadex G-200 and Phenyl Superose. The resulting purification was 1960 folds for a 6% yield. The molecular weight of this enzyme was estimated at 180,000. It contains two identical sub-units. The pI is 5.5. This enzyme has a strong affinity for aryl-beta-glycosides:pNPG, prunassine; it could also degrade linamarine. It is inhibited by p-chloromercuribenzoate, delta-gluconolactone and glucose. PMID- 2517306 TI - Histopathological study of rat mammary adenocarcinoma after protein A administration. AB - Protein A was purified from Staphylococcus aureus Cowan I and administered subcutaneously for a period of six weeks to a 7,12-dimethylbenz(alpha)anthracene induced rat mammary adenocarcinoma model, which resulted in a significant reduction in tumor volume. Considerable fibrosis, inflammatory reactions, cellular debris, and edema were the hallmarks of tumor necrosis caused by administration of protein A. Calcification, which may be the replacement of earlier necrosis, also was observed. Thick eosinophilic secretions were observed in the lumina of the breast tubules. The results suggest that inflammatory mechanisms may be activated, accounting for the tumoricidal effects observed following treatment with protein A. PMID- 2517304 TI - [Reactions and interactions of drugs]. PMID- 2517308 TI - Separation into two major forms of beta(1-3)N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase from human serum. AB - The major beta(1-3)N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase [beta(1-3)GlcNAc-transferase] activity in human serum was isolated by DEAE- and CM-Sepharose column chromatography. This enzyme fraction consisted of two forms of the enzyme, which were separated from each other on a DEAE-Sepharose column and designated as GNAc TI and GNAc-TII, respectively. They have the same molecular weights (about 90,000), optimum pH values (between pH 7.5 and 8.5) and apparent Km values for N acetyllactosamine and lactose (7.1-8.8 mM and 10.9-11.5 mM, respectively). Glycosidase and methylation analyses of the reaction products demonstrated that both the enzyme catalyze exclusively the transfer of one N-acetylglucosamine to position C-3 of the terminal galactose of lactose in the beta linkage. PMID- 2517307 TI - AV nodal reentrant tachycardia with Mahaim fiber conduction. AB - Paroxysmal tachycardia with widened QRS complexes was found in a 46-year-old woman. In sinus rhythm, the patient had electrocardiographic evidence of type B preexcitation with a left bundle branch block pattern. The resting PR interval (160 msec) and A-H interval (100 msec) were within normal limits, but the H-V interval (10 msec) was abnormally short. Programmed atrial extrastimuli at progressively shorter coupling intervals resulted in sudden prolongation of the A H interval from 120 msec to 250 msec, and the His bundle activities became incorporated just after initiation of the QRS complexes. The QRS morphology was changed but the change was minimal, and atrial echo beats or sustained tachycardia with wide and preexcited QRS complexes were elicited. It is postulated that the site of reentry is within the AV node with preexcitation occurring as the result of conduction in an anomalous nodoventricular pathway. PMID- 2517309 TI - [Correction of pulmonary hypertension in heart surgery patients during the immediate postoperative period]. AB - Long-acting nitrates given to patients undergone mitral commissurotomy caused a decrease in pulmonary hypertension severity. With nitroglycerin, euphylline, and papaverine, pulmonary pressure and total pulmonary and pulmonary arterial resistances, which was followed by enhanced cardiac output, optimized ejection fraction, and mean left ventricular blood ejection rate. PMID- 2517310 TI - [Effects of nirmin on central hemodynamics in patients with heart failure in the acute period of myocardial infarct]. AB - Nirmin, a novel dosage form of nitroglycerin, was used to treat heart failure in 47 patients on days 1-3 after acute myocardial infarction. The drug was intravenously injected at 12-400 micrograms/min for 3-24 hours. Central hemodynamic changes were evaluated from equilibrium radionuclide ventriculographic data and pulmonary diastolic and central venous pressures. Nirmin improved the clinical status in 89.3% of the patients. Hemodynamic effects of the agent were manifested by reduced myocardial preload and its improved contractility, followed by elevated left ventricular ejection fraction and decreased hypokinesia of the myocardial affected areas. PMID- 2517311 TI - [Effects of early physical rehabilitation of patients with myocardial infarction on the function of the pituitary-thyroid system]. PMID- 2517312 TI - [Use of combined complexes and lithium carbonate in the preoperative care of patients with toxic goiter]. AB - On the basis of clinico-laboratory and radioimmunologic investigations in 139 patients with thyrotoxicosis, it is shown that in prescription of lithium carbonate with mercazol, more rapid decrease in the blood level of thyroid hormones, incidence of complications before and after the operation, cost expenditure is noted when compared to the other methods. PMID- 2517314 TI - Glutamate accumulation into synaptic vesicles. PMID- 2517315 TI - Identifying weak signals in the presence of noise: a new method of locating potential ligand contact residues in immunoglobulin-related molecules. AB - We develop and apply a new method for estimating the locations of hypervariable residues in immunoglobulin-related molecules. The method differs from the standard introduced by Wu and Kabat in two essential ways: (1) we take explicit account of the type of substitution at a given position, rather than just the total number of substitutions, and (2) we use an explicit statistical decision criterion for classifying a site into either the complementarity determining or framework category. Simulations indicate that the method is reliable with relatively little data, approximately 5% of the sites being misclassified when 10 sequences are aligned. The method is applied to immunoglobulin light chains and to class 1 and class 2 products of the major histocompatibility complex. PMID- 2517316 TI - Amino acid sequence of the variable domains of a human anti-Rh(c) antibody: presence of an unusually long CDR3 in the lambda chain. AB - The complete amino acid sequence of the lambda light chain and the variable domain of the heavy chain of an anti-Rh(c) human monoclonal antibody were determined. The lambda chain presents a long third complementarity-determining region sequence with unusual amino acid insertions at the C-terminus. The proposed sequence indicates that this lambda chain may be assigned to the variable region subgroup I. The J segment is identical to that of J lambda 2 except for the first amino acid residue. Positions 152 (serine) and 190 (arginine) from this sequence correspond to the Kern-Oz- isotype, respectively. The VH segment can be classified as a VHIII subgroup member. The CDR1 segment of the anti-Rh(c) VH region has the same sequence as the VH of human BRO protein except for the first residue of the CDR1. The amino acid sequence of the anti Rh(c) D segment does not match any published D segment. The JH segment used in this protein can be classified as a JH3 with a single amino acid difference at the fourth residue. PMID- 2517313 TI - [Aluminum toxicity]. AB - In view of the increasing pollution of our environment and forest decline, growing interest has been focused on aluminum toxicity. Aluminum is one of the most abundant metals and commonly present in tap water, beverages, food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical preparations. Thus everybody is exposed to aluminum to a greater or lesser extent. It is now beyond any doubt that aluminum intoxication may cause encephalopathy, fracturing vitamin D resistant osteomalacia, and microcytic anemia in patients with chronic renal insufficiency as well as in experimental animals. The risk of aluminum intoxication has also to be considered in several other groups. These include elderly individuals with physiologically impaired excretory renal function who are treated with aluminum containing antacids, patients with chronic liver disease, infants who are fed highly aluminum-contaminated formula at a time when their excretory renal function has not jet fully developed, patients on total parenteral nutrition, and, possibly, patients with Alzheimer's disease. PMID- 2517318 TI - [Control of the side effects of ketamine: chlordemethyldiazepam vs diazepam in pre-anesthesia]. AB - The pre-operative circulatory and psychotomimetic side-effects are studied in one hundred patients undergoing elective plastic-reconstructive surgery and anesthetized by ketamine 5-8 mg/kg i.m. Fifty patients were premedicated by atropine 0.01 mg/kg + CDDz 0.0285 mg/kg i.m. (group C), fifty by atropine 0.01 mg/kg + Dz 0.14 mg/kg i.m. (group D). All patients breathed spontaneously. Statistical analysis was performed with X 2 test. Not statistical difference was observed for the circulatory side-effects, whereas the frequency of emergence phenomena fell significantly from 31% to 14% (p less than 0.05) with CDDZ in greater than 16 years old patients. These finding seem confirm that CDDZ is more effective than DZ in reducing the psychotomimetic side-effects of ketamine, though it may be recommended a its wider experiment in this connection. PMID- 2517317 TI - [Renal cortex ischemia, right atrial thrombosis and coronary occlusion in anti phospholipid antibody syndrome]. AB - The presence of a lupus anticoagulant (LA) is paradoxically associated with a high incidence of arterial and venous thrombosis. In a patient with a lupus-like systemic disease, having received phenindione for 11 years, LA was discovered in association with recurrent deep venous thrombosis, a right atrial thrombus, coronary occlusion, arterial hypertension, thrombopenia, and anticardiolipin antibodies without anti-DNA antibodies. Renal cortical ischemia was detected by a tomographic scan. Renal biopsy showed glomerular ischemia and diffuse interstitial fibrosis. After a one-year anticoagulant and steroid therapy, LA has disappeared despite a high level of anticardiolipin antibodies, and renal function remains normal. PMID- 2517319 TI - [Effects of various caloric intakes on nitrogen metabolism of the body, the muscles and the viscera during total parenteral nutrition with aminoacidic solution enriched with branched-chain amino acids]. AB - Nitrogen metabolism was studied in ten injured/septic patients by means of a two compartment model, differentiating muscle from non muscle (central) tissue. During fasting muscle tissue loses a consistent amount of aminoacids which is retained in part by central tissue, giving rise to a positive nitrogen balance, whilst three methyl histidine and body nitrogen output are elevated. Total parenteral nutrition (glucose 15 kcal kg-1 day-1, nitrogen 0.30 g kg-1 die-1) improved body nitrogen balance and three methyl histidine excretion, but did not affect significantly either muscle or central nitrogen balance. Increasing caloric support to 30 kcal kg-1 day-1 did not showed any further effect on body nitrogen balance and three methyl histidine, while it improved significantly vs basal muscle nitrogen balance, but did not affect central nitrogen balance. PMID- 2517320 TI - Uraemic hyperphosphataemia--what is the therapy of choice? PMID- 2517321 TI - Renal prognosis in Alport's and related syndromes: influence of the mode of inheritance. AB - Progressive hereditary nephritis is subdivided into Alport's syndrome (with extrarenal involvement) and hereditary nephritis without deafness. Three modes of inheritance have been described: X-linked dominant, autosomal dominant, and autosomal recessive. We reviewed the mode of inheritance in 48 kindred with hereditary nephritis (41 with Alport's syndrome and 7 with hereditary nephritis without deafness). It was presumed X-linked dominant in 34 Alport's syndrome and 6 hereditary nephritis without deafness, autosomal dominant in five hereditary nephritis and one hereditary nephritis without deafness, and autosomal recessive in two Alport's syndrome. We studied the cumulative renal survival of 149 patients, 128 (76 males, 52 females) with Alport's syndrome and 21 (10 males, and 11 females) with hereditary nephritis without deafness. Major prognostic factors were the patient's sex (median renal survival in males and females being respectively 32 versus 61 years in Alport's syndrome and 34 versus 57 years in hereditary nephritis without deafness), and the mode of inheritance (median renal survival in males being 25 years in X-linked dominant Alport's syndrome versus 51 years in autosomal dominant Alport's syndrome). The presence of hearing loss in the kindred or in the patient himself did not appear as a significant prognostic factor. We conclude that Alport's syndrome and hereditary nephritis without deafness are predominantly X-linked dominant diseases with the same renal outcome, and that in Alport's syndrome the patient's sex and the mode of inheritance are two independent prognostic factors. PMID- 2517323 TI - Prevention of radiocontrast-media-induced nephrotoxicity by the calcium channel blocker nitrendipine: a prospective randomised clinical trial. AB - Despite the development of new non-ionic low-osmolality contrast media, nephrotoxicity of intravascular radio-opaque contrast media remains a severe clinical problem, particularly in patients with risk factors. Widely accepted mechanisms of contrast-media-induced nephrotoxicity are disturbances of renal microcirculation due to prolonged intrarenal vasoconstriction, and direct damaging effects on glomerular and tubular cells. Calcium channel blocking agents have been shown experimentally and clinically to ameliorate ischaemic and toxic renal injury. In the present prospectively randomised, double-blind clinical trial, we investigated a total of 35 patients after intravascular administration of contrast media to determine the effects on renal function of a 3-day treatment with the calcium channel blocker nitrendipine (20 mg/day orally, starting 1 day before X-ray examination, n = 16), compared to findings in a placebo-treated control group (n = 19). Despite the fact that baseline renal function was significantly more compromised in the investigational group, the prophylactic application of nitrendipine preserved the glomerular filtration rate, whereas control patients showed a significant (27%) reduction in GFR on day 2 after contrast-media injection (P less than or equal to 0.01). Moreover, the increase in enzymuria of three different renal enzymes (gamma-GT, AAP, and beta-NAG), as well as urinary protein excretion, was significantly ameliorated by nitrendipine. These data confirm previous findings of our group in patients after kidney transplantation, indicating that prophylactic and/or therapeutic application of calcium channel blockers is of substantial value in preventing ischaemic or toxic renal injury.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2517322 TI - Effectiveness of steroid therapy in different stages of membranous nephropathy. AB - The published studies on histological staging and response to steroid therapy of membranous glomerulonephritis are not consistent. We analysed data from 25 adult patients with stage I (group 1, n = 7) and stage II (group 2, n = 18) disease. The interval between clinical onset and admission was similar in the two groups. At admission all patients had normal creatinine clearance; proteinuria averaged 5.4 +/- 4.0 in group 1 and 9.0 +/- 4.0 in group 2 (g/day per 100 ml GFR). All patients received 6 months steroid therapy (months 1-2, 1 mg/kg b.w. per day; month 3-5: 0.65 mg/kg b.w. e.o.d.; month 6, tapering). After this cycle of steroid therapy, proteinuria declined by 84% in group 1 (five patients being in partial remission, i.e. 0.4-2 g/day, and two patients in complete remission, i.e. less than or equal to 0.3 g/day) and by 47% in group 2 (two patients being in complete remission and six in partial remission). Only 1 patient in group 1 relapsed with nephrotic proteinuria after 36 months, and renal function was still normal in all patients at the most recent follow-up (59 +/- 32 months). In contrast, 14 patients in group 2 had nephrotic syndrome and seven renal insufficiency at the most recent follow-up. We conclude that short-term steroid therapy is effective only in patients with early membranous changes. PMID- 2517324 TI - Interstitial mononuclear cell infiltrates in experimental nephrosis: effect of PAF antagonist. AB - Rats receiving a single injection of either aminonucleoside of puromycin (PAN, 10 mg/100 g) or Adriamycin (ADR, 7.5 mg/kg) develop heavy proteinuria and tubulointerstitial nephritis. Interstitial mononuclear cells were markedly more intense in PAN- than in ADR-treated rats. The composition of cell infiltrates was characterised in frozen kidney sections using an immunoperoxidase staining method and a panel of specific monoclonal antibodies. The severe mixed cellular lesions observed in the PAN model on day 14 were dominated by ED1+ macrophages, OX6+ Ia interstitial and OX8+ T-cytotoxic/suppressor cell surface markers. A similar but more discrete ADR-interstitial cell accumulation was observed on day 11 of the experiment. A correlation existed in the PAN model between the severity of interstitial nephritis and the degree of proteinuria. In contrast, there was no such correlation in ADR nephrosis. Administration of PAF antagonist (BN 52021), started on the first day and continued throughout the 4 weeks of the experiment, induced in both ADR and PAN-treated rats a partial reduction in the number of interstitial cell infiltrates. Glomeruli from normal control rats incubated with 3H acetate, substrate for lyso-PAF: acetyl-CoA acetyltransferase and ADR stimulated PAF generation. Although the precise mechanism of interstitial cell accumulation in these two models of nephrosis are still unknown, our results suggest that PAF could be an important factor involved in interstitial cell recruitment. PMID- 2517326 TI - The effect of acetate on ventilation in haemodialysis patients. AB - This study evaluates the direct effect of acetate upon ventilation during acetate haemodialysis. Eight patients with end-stage renal failure who were receiving chronic haemodialysis treatment underwent acetate infusion for 1 h on a day outside a haemodialysis session. Ventilation was continuously measured using respiratory inductance plethysmography, starting 20 min before the infusion. Arterial blood samples were drawn and expired gases were analysed at regular intervals. After 1 h of acetate infusion, arterial pH increased rapidly and significantly from 7.38 +/- 0.01 to 7.49 +/- 0.01, the VCO2 and VO2 slightly decreased and increased respectively, resulting in a reduced respiratory exchange ratio from 0.81 +/- 0.04 to 0.69 +/- 0.05. Ventilation slightly decreased only after 60 min, whereas the breathing pattern remained normal; neither apnoea periods nor periodic breathing were observed. We conclude that the hypoventilation and irregular breathing encountered in acetate-cuprophane haemodialysis is related to CO2/HCO3- unloading and the occurrence of complement activation-induced hypoxaemia rather than to the small changes in VCO2, VO2 during metabolism of acetate. PMID- 2517325 TI - Prevention of osteitis fibrosa, aluminium bone disease and soft-tissue calcification in dialysis patients: a long-term comparison of moderate doses of oral calcium +/- Mg(OH)2 vs Al(OH)3 +/- 1 alpha OH vitamin D3. AB - Since 1980, moderately large doses of oral calcium (80 +/- 35 mmol/day as CaCO3 +/- calcium polystyrene sulphonate), in association if necessary with Mg(OH)2 (2.5 +/- 1 g/day), with a reduction in the dialysate Mg concentrations from 0.75 to 0.375 mmol/24 h, have replaced A1(OH)3 as phosphate binders in our centre. A1(OH)3 was previously given to our haemodialysis patients in association with small doses of Ca CO3 (less than or equal to 3 g/day) and if necessary with 1 alpha OH vitamin D3. To compare the long-term efficacy of this new approach with the former one in the prevention of renal osteodystrophy and soft-tissue calcification, 32 current patients were selected on the basis of at least 24 months of treatment in our centre and availability of a yearly bone survey (profile of lumbar spine and anteroposterior view of the pelvis, shoulders and hands). A group of 30 patients treated before 1980 were then selected on the same criteria and matched for age, sex, and duration on dialysis. Linear calcifications of the anterior and posterior walls of the aorta in front of L2, L3, L4 and on the lateral walls of the iliac and femoral arteries were measured and the para-articular calcifications and subperiosteal resorptions of the hands evaluated. The initial extent and the subsequent increase of the ocular and para articular calcification were comparable in the two groups. Plasma alkaline phosphatase was stable in the normal range in both groups, as was plasma concentration of calcium. Plasma phosphate was slightly elevated (1.7 mmol/l) but stable and comparable in the two groups.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2517327 TI - Seizures in haemodialysis patients treated with recombinant human erythropoietin. AB - Administration of recombinant erythropoietin (r-HuEPO) is an effective treatment for the anaemia of chronic renal failure, but in some patients it has been accompanied by elevated blood pressure. This study focuses on seven patients with end-stage renal failure, managed on haemodialysis, who developed probable hypertensive encephalopathy with seizures during treatment with r-HuEPO. All made a full recovery. The events were not clearly related to the haemoglobin concentrations achieved, and four patients have subsequently been restarted on r HuEPO therapy at a reduced dose, resulting in a slower increase in haemoglobin with no recurrence of episodes of severe hypertension. Close attention needs to be paid to blood pressure in patients commencing erythropoietin therapy, and it seems prudent to aim for a gradual increase in haemoglobin concentration to allow the circulation to adapt to changes in oxygen delivery and haematocrit. PMID- 2517328 TI - Dietary fish oil supplements preserve renal function in renal transplant recipients with chronic vascular rejection. AB - The effect of dietary fish oil supplements on renal failure and lipid abnormalities was studied in 14 adult renal transplant recipients with chronic vascular rejection. The rate of decline of renal function (assessed by studying the slope of reciprocal plasma creatinine plots) slowed significantly during a 6 month period on fish oil supplements compared with the preceding 6-month control period (slope 1/cr during supplementation -3.6 X 10(-5) mumols/l per month compared with -13.5 X 10(-5) before, the difference in slope being -9.8 X 10(-5), 95% confidence interval (CI) -16.2 X 10(-5), -3.5 X 10(-5), P less than 0.05). Total plasma triglyceride concentrations decreased during supplementation (mean change -1.15 mmol/l, 95% CI -1.84, -0.47, P less than 0.003), but there was no change in total plasma cholesterol concentration or urinary protein excretion. Platelet function was studied in nine patients. Platelet aggregation induced by adrenaline and collagen was reduced by fish oils (median change in per cent aggregation), adrenaline 2 mumols/l, -36% (95% CI -68%, -8%, P less than 0.05), collagen 1 mg/1, -13% (95% CI -44%, -2%, P less than 0.05). Platelet thromboxane A2 release in response to these agents was also significantly reduced. These results demonstrate that fish oils preserve residual function in renal graft failure due to chronic vascular rejection. PMID- 2517329 TI - The initiation of erythropoiesis following renal transplantation. AB - Erythropoiesis has been examined in relation to kidney function in 38 patients during the 3-month period following successful renal transplantation, using serial determinations of erythropoietin, haemoglobin, and creatinine. Two peaks of serum erythropoietin were observed: an early peak that occurred within 2 days of transplantation and was observed in ten patients, and a late one between 8 and 30 days, observed in 28 patients. The early peak did not produce an increase in haemoglobin and occurred only in the presence of delayed onset of graft excretory function when serum creatinine was greater than 1000 mumols/l. The ineffectiveness of the early peak may be due to the uraemic environment, which is probably a sequel of the tubular damage associated with postoperative acute tubular necrosis. The late peak followed a decrease in serum creatinine to less than 200 mumols/l and was associated with an increase in haemoglobin of 3-4 g/dl during the next 2-6 weeks. PMID- 2517330 TI - Membranous nephropathy: monoclonal IgG and nephrotic-range proteinuria in a renal transplant recipient. PMID- 2517331 TI - Picotamide, selective inhibitor of thromboxane synthesis in patients on maintenance hemodialysis. PMID- 2517332 TI - Life-threatening captopril-induced hyperkalemia in a patient on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis. PMID- 2517333 TI - [The role of lysosomal enzymes in the pathogenesis of ciliochoroidal detachment]. AB - The paper discusses the role of lysosomal enzymes, in particular beta galactosidase, as a starting mechanism in the development of ciliochoroidal detachment. The activity of beta-galactosidase was determined in the suprachoroidal fluid, the aqueous humor, in the blood serum before intraocular operation and in posterior sclerotomy. Ciliochoroidal detachment is shown to be accompanied by accumulation of beta-galactosidase in the suprachoroidal space, not correlating with the enzyme content in the blood serum. This allows to speak about a possible participation of this enzyme in the formation of ciliochoroidal detachment. PMID- 2517334 TI - Solitary plasmacytoma of the chest wall. A case report. AB - Solitary plasmacytic lymphomas are rarely described in the lung. Generally, localized neoplasms develop into mediastinal or pulmonary lymphnodes and are hard to differentiate from other lung neoplasms. An involvement of the chest wall in multiple myeloma is not rare, and is generally associated with other skeletal localizations. A secreting solitary plasmacytoma of the ribs is rather uncommon: a personal review of the literature has showed, in the last ten years, only two cases of these tumors, secreting IgG lambda light chains. In this study we report a case of solitary plasmacytoma of the chest wall, associated with an IgG kappa monoclonal gammapathy. PMID- 2517335 TI - [CT findings of ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL), with special emphasis on the relationship to clinical symptoms]. AB - To analyze the CT findings of OPLL quantitatively, stenotic rate (thickness of OPLL/A-P diameter of the spinal canal) and occupying rate (area occupied by OPLL/area of spinal canal) were correlated with severity of the myelopathy. The cervical vertebrae were most frequently involved (88.9%). The shapes of OPPL on lateral plain radiography were various but there were slightly more continuous and mixed types than segmented or protrusion types in this series. When the occupying rate exceeded 20%, myelopathy tended to appear. And when the stenotic rate became over 30%, myelopathy tended to appear. There was statistically significant tendency that the higher the stenotic rate or patient had. Therefore we concluded the stenotic rate and occupying rate were useful indicators to evaluate the severity of OPLL. PMID- 2517336 TI - [Structure and biosynthesis of plant N-linked glycoproteins]. PMID- 2517337 TI - Adaptive responsiveness of time-dependent dopamine receptors after unilateral nigral 6-OHDA lesion: a quantitative autoradiographic study in the rat brain. PMID- 2517338 TI - Substituted benzamides as poly(ADP-ribose) transferase inhibitors: development of new derivatives by using computer graphics techniques. PMID- 2517339 TI - Gamma interferon administration differently affects sensitive or doxorubicin resistant P388 leukemia cells; a relationship with antioxidant defenses? PMID- 2517340 TI - Single and repeated treatment with chlordiazepoxide and sodium valproate and head twitch responses induced in rats with rolipram, a potential antidepressant drug. PMID- 2517341 TI - Central pertussis toxin abolishes the intestinal inhibition induced by intracerebroventricular morphine. PMID- 2517342 TI - Medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) stimulates adenylate cyclase activity in rat mammary tumours. PMID- 2517343 TI - Established facts, doubts and future perspectives on PGI2 vascular and platelet receptors. PMID- 2517344 TI - Activation of phospholipase C by mitogens in murine fibroblasts. PMID- 2517346 TI - Determination and in vivo characterization of the basic replicon of natural plasmids of Methylomonas clara. AB - The basic replicon of the endogenous Methylomonas clara plasmid pBE-2 and its derivatives was defined to a region of 2.7 kb by in vivo deletions and conjugative transfer experiments using Escherichia coli-M. clara hybrid plasmids. Origin activity was found to be confined to a maximal length of 1.3 kb. The origin consists of two fragments which can be separated more than 4 kb by the integration of foreign DNA fragments without loss of function. A fragment having a maximum size of 2.1 kb supports in trans replication initiation at the origin. In addition, two incompatibility determinants were revealed, one localized in the origin fragment and the other outside the origin. Incompatibility between two basic replicons of the natural M. clara plasmids can be overcome by the integration of one of them in the compatible IncP plasmid R68-Kms. No homology was found between the plasmid basic replicon and the chromosomal DNA of M. clara. PMID- 2517345 TI - Structural organization of pLP1, a cryptic plasmid from Lactobacillus plantarum CCM 1904. AB - To construct shuttle vectors based on an endogenous replicon, we isolated a small cryptic plasmid (pLP1) from Lactobacillus plantarum CCM 1904. The nucleotide sequence (2093 bp, 38.25 GC mol%) revealed one major open reading frame encoding for a 317 amino acid protein (Rep). Comparisons with proteins encoded by other Gram-positive bacteria plasmids strongly suggest that the protein encoded by pLP1 has a replicative role. The presence of a consensus sequence including a tyrosine residue known to be the replication protein binding site to the DNA (in phage phi X174) strengthens this hypothesis. The DNA sequence contains also a sequence similar to the pC194 origin nick sequence, which initiates the plasmid replication at the plus origin, characteristic of plasmids which replicate following a rolling circle mechanism via single-stranded DNA intermediates. A set of 13 direct repeats of 17 bp could be involved in the expression of the incompatibility or in the copy number control as in the other plasmids. A promoter sequence located at the rep 5' region has been identified and is functional in Bacillus subtilis. PMID- 2517347 TI - Listeriosis and its transmission by food. AB - Investigations of recent outbreaks and sporadic cases of listeriosis in North America and other countries have shown that the infection can be foodborne. Pregnant women and their fetuses, the elderly, and immuno-compromised individuals are at increased risk of listeriosis. Listeria monocytogenes, the causative bacterium, is widespread in nature and is found in many foods. It can grow at refrigerator temperatures and is resistant to adverse conditions and to several antibiotics. The generally low levels of the organism found in foods require procedures to optimize their detection and recovery. Occurrence and characteristics of the bacterium, virulence and disease symptoms, transmission to humans, incidence and behavior in foods, and means of controlling growth in foods are reviewed. PMID- 2517348 TI - Production of epoxygenase metabolite by human reproductive tissues. AB - Human amnion, trophoblast and umbilical vein endothelial cells synthesise an arachidonic acid metabolite which is neither a lipoxygenase nor a cyclo-oxygenase product. It is sensitive to stimulants and inhibitors of the cytochrome-P450 dependent epoxygenase system and co-migrates on HPLC with 14,15 epoxyeicosatrienoic acid (14,15-EET), which is an epoxygenase product. The function of 14,15-EET in these reproductive tissues is unknown, but it may be involved in the maintenance of vascular function. PMID- 2517349 TI - A decrease in the equilibrium constant for the binding of thyroxine to TBG in pregnant women. AB - The interaction between thyroxine (T4) and thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG) was examined in the serum of pregnant subjects and compared with that in normal serum. Serum T4, TBG capacity, and serum albumin concentrations were measured in serum from six normal and five pregnant subjects. The percent of free T4 (% free T4) was also measured by equilibrium dialysis against veronal buffer in which T4 binding by TBPA was completely abolished. Calculated values for the net equilibrium constant for the binding of T4 to TBG (KTBG) were significantly lower in serum from pregnant subjects (1.18 x 10(10) M-1) than in that from normal subjects (1.65 x 10(10) M-1). To assess the possibility that these findings were due to the presence of a dialyzable inhibitor of T4-binding in the serum from pregnant subjects, serum from normal subjects was dialyzed against that from pregnant subjects. In addition, serum from pregnant subjects was dialyzed against normal serum. KTBG was not altered after dialysis and no evidence of a dialyzable inhibitor of binding was found. The data suggest, therefore, that the TBG in the serum of pregnant women may have a lesser intrinsic affinity for T4 than that in normal serum. PMID- 2517350 TI - Use of the activated partial thromboplastin time for the diagnosis of congenital coagulation disorders: problems and possible solutions. AB - The activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) is a commonly performed laboratory procedure which is used for multiple purposes including monitoring of heparin therapy, detection of coagulation factor deficiency, and detection of lupus anticoagulants. Among the hereditary coagulation deficiencies, factor VIII and factor IX are the most common. APTT reagents differ widely in both their sensitivity to factor VIII and factor IX deficiencies as well as their responsiveness. Sensitivity may be defined as the ability to identify a deficiency state while responsiveness is indicated by the degree of prolongation of the APTT result as compared to the upper limit of normal. Reagents may be both sensitive and responsive or alternatively sensitive and relatively nonresponsive. Consequently, it is extremely important for each laboratory to carefully identify the upper limit of the normal range. A variety of preanalytical variables will also effect the sensitivity of the APTT to factor deficiency states. These variables include specimen handling and the preparation of platelet poor plasma. The instrument effect is also of importance. Selection of the reagent tends to have the most impact on sensitivity and responsiveness while instrumentation affects the precision of a given APTT. The composition and concentration of phospholipid in APTT reagents does have an effect on reagent responsiveness and sensitivity. Sensitivity to factor deficiencies does not necessarily parallel sensitivity to lupus anticoagulants. PMID- 2517353 TI - [Cartoons]. PMID- 2517351 TI - Chromogenic substrates for activated partial thromboplastin time testing: are they worth using? AB - In hemostasis testing the development of chromogenic substrates provides an alternative to the traditional methods based on the detection of forming clots. The new technology has often replaced the clotting tests, especially in the area of single clotting factor and inhibitor assay, less frequently for global screening tests. We report studies of the validity and clinical application of two reagents for activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) testing with chromogenic substrates in comparison with the conventional clotting method. Congenital deficiencies of the intrinsic coagulation pathway, other than hypo- and dysfibrinogenemia detected by chromogenic APTT, agreed with those detected by the clotting APTT. The results with the two methods for plasma under heparin treatment suggest a lesser responsiveness of the chromogenic methods to heparinization. The chromogenic methods demonstrated the presence of the lupus anticoagulant in the majority of tested samples of known lupus subjects, but with a lower responsiveness than the clotting method. In conclusion, we found chromogenic APTT suitable for hemostasis testing because it generally gives the same information as the conventional clotting method with the exception of heparin monitoring and lupus anticoagulant detection, where an improved sensitivity would be desirable. PMID- 2517352 TI - Screening for the lupus anticoagulant. AB - The lupus anticoagulant may be defined as an immunoglobulin (IgG, IgM or both) which interferes with one or more of the in vitro phospholipid-dependent tests of coagulation. For many years, lupus anticoagulants were regarded as a laboratory nuisance; consequently, reagents were often selected on the basis of insensitivity to lupus anticoagulants. Recently, lupus anticoagulants have been associated with a variety of clinical conditions including recurrent thromboembolic events (both arterial and venous), obstetrical complications including fetal death and spontaneous abortion, and a variety of hematologic and neurologic complications. As a result, many laboratories are now being asked to identify the presence of lupus anticoagulants in selected patient populations. In addition to assays for lupus anticoagulants, there are immunologic assays designed to detect phospholipid antibodies using solid phase systems (RIA or ELISA). A variety of screening tests have been designed to enhance sensitivity to lupus anticoagulants. Test systems with decreased amounts of phospholipid (phosphatidylserine) appear to be most sensitive to lupus anticoagulants. Of the various tests used, the activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) appears to be most sensitive. The sensitivity of any screening test system is inversely proportional to the residual platelets in the patient sample. APTT reagents differ widely in their sensitivity to lupus anticoagulants. The dilute Russell viper venom time is also highly dependent on the choice and concentration of phospholipid with respect to its sensitivity. Once an abnormality of a screening test has been identified, it is necessary to prove the abnormal result is due to the presence of an inhibitor. This step in the diagnosis may utilize either mixing studies or plasma agarose gels. The final step in the diagnosis of lupus anticoagulants is the demonstration of phospholipid specificity of the inhibitor. Two approaches have been utilized: 1. test systems designed to enhance anticoagulant effect (phospholipid-depleted), and 2. test systems with increased or altered phospholipids which will bypass or neutralize the anticoagulant. PMID- 2517354 TI - [Indicators for nursing: is a rereading on the positive side possible?]. AB - A "positive" interpretation of the indicators presented in the previous contribution is proposed, with specific emphasis on the lack of nursing manpower and the absence of career perspectives. A working plan is outlined, to allow a preliminary focusing on the priorities and steps which could contribute to the transformation of suggestions, which could otherwise appear provocative, into an operational program. PMID- 2517355 TI - [The organization of a working group for the prevention of decubitus lesions]. AB - The authors report the results of a two years monitoring program focused on patients at risk of and with bedsores in the general hospital of Castelfranco Veneto. The purpose of the multidisciplinary exercise (which saw the participation of nurses, pharmacists, doctors) was the activation and the evaluation of treatment protocols. The overall recruited sample included 679 patients, with a prevalence of 61% of lesions at the occasion of the first observation, and of 57% in the last one. The hardly quantitatively different prevalence is better understood from a qualitative point of view: the number of lesions per patients drops slightly from 1.9 to 1.7; one out of four of the "at risk" patients became "at no risk"; a 30% improvement is observed with respect to treatment efficacy. It is suggested that a positive effect may be obtained through a sustained attention to the problem and the careful definition of the interventions to be planned. PMID- 2517357 TI - [The perception of avoidable harm on the part of nurses of hospitals in the Calabria region. The Cultural Association of Nurses of Catanzaro]. AB - How nurses perceive the extension and the quality of iatrogenic damage induced by assistance problems has been the object of a prospective evaluation in a sample of ten hospitals of Calabria, a southern Italian Region. An high proportion (85%) of the 394 episodes which have been described over the observation period (2 months) was deemed to have specific physical or psychological consequences for the patients. Up to 92% of the problems is estimated to be avoidable, while 12% of the iatrogenic episodes are attributed to the responsibility of nurses. Structural deficiencies are seen as the underlying cause in 52% of instances, organization difficulties in 35.5% and ignorance in 19.7%. Less than half of the problems lead to group discussion. Despite their limitations due the heterogeneity of participating wards and hospitals, the results provide many interesting suggestions and materials for training and permanent education programs. PMID- 2517358 TI - [Vaccination today in Italy]. PMID- 2517356 TI - [Efficacy and difficulty in a program of home care for patients with cancer in an advanced stage]. AB - The difficulties experienced by nurses working in a service for domiciliary assistance have been studied through a series of three observations performed at the occasion of the weekly team meetings, at the first visit, the second week of treatment, the week preceding interruption of therapy. Pain problems pose far less difficulties than those linked to the overall physical and psychological management of the patients, which worsen as the time goes on. Specific attention is given to the familiar setting and to the motives which lead to the interruption of the nursing relationships. PMID- 2517359 TI - [The evaluation of the quality of care. I]. PMID- 2517360 TI - [Women nurses]. PMID- 2517362 TI - [Duodenal diverticula and organic diseases of the pancreatoduodenal area]. AB - X-ray examination of 123 patients showed duodenal diverticula seated primarily in the descending part. In 60% of the patients, they were located in the area of the major duodenal papilla. Duodenal diverticula were coupled significantly more often with chronic pancreatitis than with chronic cholecystitis and ulcer disease of the duodenum. Combined choleduodenography is a method of choice for establishing interrelations between a diverticulum and the major duodenal papilla. In addition to parapapillary diverticula, the development of pancreatitis may be promoted by the diverticulum taking root in the pancreatic parenchyma. PMID- 2517361 TI - [The clinical efficacy of aerosol drug agents and dried dairy enteral feeding formulae in chronic nonulcerative colitis]. AB - The authors suggested and tried a method for the treatment of chronic (nonulcerative) colitis using the trace element-vitamin-energy infants products for enteral nutrition Malysh, Detolact or Vitalact combined with intestinal administration of the antiinflammatory-repair-anesthetizing aerosol remedies Olasol, Cimesol, Levovinisol, Vinisol or Livian. The method is characterized by an appreciable medical and economic efficacy, it is unsophisticated and can be widely used in medical practice at all stages of the treatment. PMID- 2517363 TI - Further study of pollen typhae's effects on the production of tPA and PGI, by cultured endothelial cells. AB - We had reported that Pollen Typhae, a Chinese traditional herbal medicine could reduce atherosclerotic plaque formation in experimental animals. Fraction IV isolated from Pollen Typhae had the ability to raise tPA and PGI2 productions by cultured porcine aortic endothelial cells (EC). In this paper we reported that F.IV was divided chemically into four subfractions named SubF.1-4 among them SubF.2-2 was further separated from SubF.2, and SubF.4-1 from SubF.4. The six subfractions were tested for their effects on the productions of tPA (125I-fibrin plate method) and PGI2(RIA) by porcine endothelial cells. The results showed that SubF.3 could enhance tPA activity and SubF.2-2 could increase PGI2 level. With Chrono-Log 500 Lumi-Aggregometer, SubF.1,2-2 and 3 were found to be able to inhibit platelet aggregation and release reaction. These data indicated that the mechanisms of Pollen Typhae in its antiatherosclerotic effects were multiple which resulted from various biologic effects exerted by various components of this drug. Chemical analyses were performed and their structures were identified, demonstrating that SubF.2-2 was a flavonoid, while SubF.3 was a group of flavonoids, implying there are some antiatherogenic components in flavonoids. PMID- 2517364 TI - Involvement of the lysine-binding sites of plasminogen on its interaction with concanavalin A. AB - Two different interactions are involved in the binding of plasminogen to concanavalin A-Sepharose: both variants 1 and 2 interact with the lectin through the lysine-binding sites and, in addition, variant 1 binds to concanavalin A due to carbohydrate recognition. Both kinds of interactions were also observed in solution by analytical ultracentrifugation. The binding of Lys-plasminogen to concanavalin A via lysine-binding sites largely exceeds that of Glu-plasminogen, in accordance with the higher affinity for lysine of Lys-plasminogen. This fact can be applied to the separation of both forms of plasminogen in a single chromatographic step. PMID- 2517365 TI - Molecular analysis of the DNA segments cross-hybridizable to the tyrosinase gene in patients affected with oculocutaneous albinism. AB - The human tyrosinase gene is greater than 35 kb and is organized in four introns and five exons [Tomita et al. (1989) Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun., 164, 990 996]. Using the full-length cDNA encoding human tyrosinase and its exon-specific fragments as hybridization probes, we show that overall structural organization of the tyrosinase gene is unchanged in three patients affected with tyrosinase negative oculocutaneous albinism (OCA). Moreover, we are able to show the presence of additional DNA segments cross-hybridizable to exon 4 or exon 5 of the tyrosinase gene in the genome of three OCA patients and a healthy individual. Namely, the exon 4 specific probe detected two bands in the DNA digested with EcoRI or HindIII and the exon 5-specific probe detected two bands in the Bgl II digested DNA, in spite of the facts that no recognition sites for these enzymes are present in each exon. We have then isolated two phage clones harboring the distinct DNA segments, hybridizable to the exon 5 probe. Southern blotting analysis of each cloned DNA digested with Bgl II showed two different hybridization patterns as those detected in genomic DNA digested with Bgl II, confirming that there are at least two DNA segments hybridizing to the exon 5 sequence in human genome. PMID- 2517366 TI - [Use of high-energy lasers in surgery of the liver and biliary tract]. PMID- 2517367 TI - [Blood group Du]. AB - When examining blood group D, sensitive methods must be used which will detect false Du as D positive. When these methods are used the incidence of true Du is low, 1-2 pro mille. Moreover Du positive erythrocytes are practically not immunogenic, they may only be able to stimulate a secondary immune response, as easily revealed during antibody screening and during cross-matching. Their immunoreactivity is also low, a passively administered anti-D antibody does not eliminate them from the circulation. The clinical impact of true Du is therefore doubtful. There are also doubts as to the practical value of examination of Du. The authors submit their views on different clinical situations which concern donors and recipients of blood transfusions, pregnant women and neonates. PMID- 2517368 TI - [Monoclonal antibodies against tick-borne encephalitis virus glycoprotein: preliminary characterization]. AB - Characterization of 12 clones of monoclonal antibodies (MAb) generated for the main immunogen of tick-borne encephalitis virus, glycoprotein E, is presented. The following MAb parameters have been determined: constants of binding with antigen, classes and subclasses of immunoglobulins, the activity in two variants of solid-phase enzyme-immunoassay, binding with protein A, and MAb behavior in serologic tests: hemagglutination-inhibition, diffuse precipitation in agar, and virus neutralization. The preliminary studies revealed the presence in these MAb of at least three groups of antibody complementary to various nonoverlapping sites on the structural virus glycoprotein. Further employment of these MAb in practical and research work is discussed. PMID- 2517370 TI - [The correlation of glycohemoglobin (HbA1) with the parameters of blood glucose control during the treatment of diabetes mellitus]. AB - 40 diabetic patients (18 patients with diabetes mellitus type I and 22 patients with diabetes mellitus type II) were examined for an average period of 6 months (from 0.5 up to 24 months). The following glycemic parameters were determined: glycohemoglobin (HbA1), average glucose of 6 glucose profiles, fasting glucose, the average of two postprandial glucose concentrations and the M-value. Correlation coefficients between the HbA1 and the parameters studied were determined. In the course of suitable treatment all patients' data were significantly improved. High correlation coefficients were found between HbA1 and the average of the two postprandial glucose concentrations and between HbA1 and the M-value (r = 0.61 and r = 0.60 respectively). The average profile glucose, the average of two postprandial glucose concentrations and the M-value show as reliable parameters for a long-term control compared with the most reliable index HbA1. PMID- 2517369 TI - [Structure-activity relation for rhodomycin-type antibiotics and the inhibition kinetics of single-stranded and double-stranded DNA- and RNA-viruses]. AB - The antiviral activity of anthracycline antibiotics of rhodomycin group was investigated by two independent methods which determined the infectious units or antigenicity of the viruses. The action of rhodomycin depended on the structure, number, and position of amino sugar in aglycon. The antiviral activity was found to increase in serial order: iremycin--adriamycin--daunomycin--alpha-rubicin- beta-rhodom ycin-- violamycin B I complex by inhibition kinetics determined with adenovirus. PMID- 2517371 TI - [Lead poisoning caused by long-term use of Diachylon ointment]. AB - A 64-year-old female patient, whose extensive bilateral leg ulcers had been treated by daily dressings with diachylon ointment for more than a year, developed lead intoxication associated with general weakness, loss of weight, anemia, hypotension, and neuropathy. The intoxication was proved by the increased levels of lead in blood (threefold) and urine (tenfold). Treatment with dimercaptopropane sulphonic acid (Dimaval) resulted in a considerable emptying of the lead deposits, and the symptoms of poisoning subsided. It is discussed if lead-containing ointments are still justified in modern dermatology. PMID- 2517372 TI - [Histamine degrading enzymes in atopic eczema]. AB - Increased plasma histamine levels were associated with significantly lowered diamine and type B monoamine oxidase activities in platelet rich plasma of atopic eczema (AE) patients. The diamine oxidase has almost normal cofactor levels (pyridoxal phosphate and Cu2+) but the cofactor levels for type B monoamine oxidase (flavin adenine dinucleotide and Fe2+) are lowered. PMID- 2517373 TI - [Differentiated treatment of epilepsy with regard to the nature of fits]. PMID- 2517374 TI - [Comparative features of the preventive action of carbamazepine and lithium carbonate in affective and schizoaffective psychoses]. AB - The preventive properties of carbamazepine were studied and compared to those of lithium carbonate in patients suffering from affective and schizoaffective psychoses. Thirty-nine patients were examined. Of these, 19 patients received preventive treatment with carbamazepine and 20 with lithium carbonate. As to the preventive efficacy of carbamazepine, it turned out superior to lithium carbonate in all respects, particularly in cases of the monopolar depressive type of illness. The data obtained made it possible to analyze the possibilities of overcoming disadvantages of the preventive therapy with lithium carbonate by means of the use of carbamazepine or combined treatment with both the drugs, which considerably widens the potentialities of the preventive therapy of recurrent affective diseases. The method for the preventive therapy with carbamazepine and combined treatment including the use of lithium carbonate and carbamazepine are described. PMID- 2517375 TI - Potential acceptors of Norplant implants in comparison with recently sterilized women in Sri Lanka. AB - This paper analyzes data from a population-based survey fielded in Sri Lanka, which showed that almost half of the women interested in using Norplant contraceptive subdermal implants were actually those who wanted to limit childbearing, a pattern also found in international Norplant clinical studies. A comparison between recently sterilized women and professed limiters of potential Norplant users showed the limiters to be socio-economically and demographically a significantly different group of women from those sterilized. Among several variables analyzed, the most important factor distinguishing the two groups was their relative economic status. Further comparison of the limiters with professed spacers interested in using Norplant showed that the spacers were yet another distinct category of women, the most important characteristic distinguishing between the two groups being the total number of living children. The preliminary results suggest that the Norplant implants system is not necessarily a substitute for sterilization; it appears potentially a popular method among those who want no more children but are not ready to accept sterilization. These findings that the potential Norplant implant users represent different gradients of women in the population have implications for provider counseling and user satisfaction as well as continuation. PMID- 2517376 TI - Role of plasminogen activators and leukocytes in IUD-induced inflammation: effect of some anti-inflammatory agents. AB - Insertion of an IUD causes a persistent inflammatory reaction, evident from an increase in the vascular dilatation and permeability of IUD-exposed endometrium. IUD-induced inflammatory changes can be checked by using anti-inflammatory drugs. In this study in rats, we report that IUD-induced inflammatory changes were partially checked by the use of anti-inflammatory drugs, in order of effectiveness, indomethacin greater than naproxen greater than ibuprofen. Histologically, IUDs provoke mild degeneration of uterine epithelium and necrotic changes in the endometrial glands. Heavy infiltration of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) in the uterine lumen was also noticed. IUD-induced degenerative changes in the histoarchitecture of uterine epithelium were partially repaired following treatment with anti-inflammatory drugs. PMID- 2517377 TI - Methotrexate 5-aminoallyl-2'-deoxyuridine 5'-monophosphate: a potential bifunctional inhibitor of thymidylate synthase. AB - Mercuration of 2'-deoxyuridine 5'-phosphate (dUMP) followed by alkylation with allylamine in the presence of K2PdCl4 afforded the 5-aminoallyl deoxynucleotide, which was isolated by sequential Dowex 50 H+ and DEAE-Sephadex chromatography. Further reaction of the product with the N-hydroxysuccinimide ester of methotrexate (MTX) in dry dimethyl sulfoxide gave an MTX-aminoallyl-dUMP covalent complex separable by DEAE-Sephadex chromatography. Reprecipitation with acid from basic solution offered further purification and the structure was confirmed by elemental analysis, NMR and absorbance spectra. The product was an inhibitor of rat liver dihydrofolate reductase (I50 approximately 250 nM, cf. MTX I50 approximately 60 nM) and Lactobacillus casei thymidylate synthase. With the latter enzyme, inhibition was competitive with both nucleotide and folate substrates (Ki = 2.6 and 3.5 microM, respectively) and partial enzyme-inhibitor binary complex could be detected by gel electrophoresis. Large fluorescence changes were observed on titration of the synthase with MTX-aminoallyl-dUMP and alterations in the UV difference spectra similar to those seen on titration of the enzyme with MTX were also noted. The compound was a poor growth inhibitor for cultured murine L1210 and human CCRF-CEM cell lines, which probably reflects low cellular uptake. PMID- 2517378 TI - A rapid, reliable, and convenient method for the purification of thymidylate synthase from amethopterin-resistant Lactobacillus casei. AB - The results presented herein describe the development of a new method for the purification of thymidylate synthase from amethopterin-resistant L. casei. This method includes three chromatographic steps: batchwise CM-Sephadex, Q-Sepharose, and 10-formylfolate-Sepharose affinity steps, and the whole procedure can be performed in three days. Additionally, the procedure has consistently produced enzyme with a specific activity of 3.0 to 3.2. The first step, the batchwise purification of L. casei cell free extracts on CM-Sephadex, resulted in a 120 fold purification with 115% recovery of the activity applied to the resin. The Q Sepharose purification step yielded a 1.5-fold purification producing enzyme with a specific activity of 2.4 units/mg. As the final step in the sequence, 10 formylfolate-Sepharose affinity chromatography yielded enzyme with a specific activity of 3.0-3.2 units/mg. The entire procedure provided a 230-fold purification with 67% recovery of the activity originally present in the cell free extract. However, the purified enzyme required extensive dialysis to achieve maximal activity. The data presented also clearly demonstrate the resolution of thymidylate synthase on the 10-formylfolate affinity column into forms which have different specific activity values and FdUMP binding ratios. Generally, enzyme with low activity leaches off this affinity matrix first, while enzyme with high activity elutes off last. These results are in accord with the sensitivity of the dimeric thymidylate synthase active site cysteines to oxidization. Consequently, when one of the two active site cysteines is oxidized, the enzyme loses the ability to bind FdUMP at this active site and its specific activity is proportionally lower. Thus, pure thymidylate synthase protein exists as a mixture of heterogeneous activity states. This condition is best examined by performing native PAGE on enzyme that has been incubated with excesses of FdUMP and CH2H4folate. PMID- 2517379 TI - Nucleoside and nucleotide modulation of genetic expression--a new approach to chemotherapy. AB - Unlike conventional enzymes, receptors that activate G proteins do not catalyze the direct formation or cleavage of covalent bonds but act instead as a catalyst for the exchange of GTP vs GDP, which results in major conformational changes in the alpha subunit of G proteins and dissociation and selective binding of the alpha subunit which provokes direct enzyme activation eventually resulting in stimulation of protein kinase A, B or C. Each of these kinases can phosphorylate specific DNA binding proteins which allow new portions of DNA to be read and expressed. Such a series of events can act as switches to control cellular genetic expression resulting in cellular proliferation, differentiation or hormonal secretion of growth factors (Scheme I). Examples of nucleosides and nucleotides which appear to exert their therapeutic effects via G protein control of cellular proliferation resulting in differentiation are tiazofurin, selenazofurin, and 8-chloro-cAMP which have been synthesized and studied in our laboratories. The clinical application of these nucleosides in cancer treatment is presently underway and offers a viable alternative to chemotherapy with highly cytotoxic agents. The use of these derivatives result in down-regulation of the G protein regulatory pathways responsible for rapid cell division. Alternatively, a series of guanosine analogs prepared in our laboratories, 8-bromoguanosine, 8 mercaptoguanosine, 7-methyl-8-oxoguanosine and 7-thia-8-oxoguanosine, all activate various aspects of the immune response by up-regulation of G protein regulatory pathways in various lymphocyte derived cells. Guanosine-like nucleosides which function in this manner could have major clinical application as antitumor, antiviral and antimetastatic agents providing the desired specificity can be achieved. Specific immune enhancement of the aged might be an attainable goal if suitable orally active guanosine derivatives with high specificity can be achieved. The G protein regulatory pathways for modulation of genetic expression in specific cell types provide a major modern approach to new chemotherapeutic agents. PMID- 2517381 TI - The permanently unconscious patient, non-feeding and euthanasia. AB - Some sources condemn judicial decisions which authorize the withdrawal of artificial nutrition from permanently unconscious patients. These critics assert that withdrawal of nutrition from a preservable unconscious patient amounts to intentional killing of a helpless human being. Grave implications are seen for helpless patients. This article confronts these critics and their assertions. The author contends that the judicial approach which allows withdrawal of artificial nutrition is fully consistent with traditional medico-legal doctrines. The article articulates a standard--respect for human dignity--which justifies withdrawal of artificial nutrition from a permanently unconscious patient. The implications of this formula for other incompetent patients facing a protracted dying process is discussed. Finally, the article explains why active euthanasia can and ought to be distinguished from withdrawal of life-preserving medical intervention. PMID- 2517380 TI - A comparative study on the hepatic toxicity and metabolism of Crotalaria assamica and Eupatorium species. AB - The oral LD50 of Crotalaria assamica, which contains mainly monocrotaline, was found to be 154 mg/kg in mice. Neither liver necrosis nor morbidity was demonstrated with Eupatorium extract at a dose level of 144 mg/kg, which was equivalent to the LD20 of Crotalaria. Pretreatment with phenobarbitone enhanced the toxicity of both plant extracts in mice. In in vitro studies, "metabolic pyrrole" was formed by incubating Eupatorium japonicum extracts with liver microsomes. The rate of "pyrrole" formation was similar to that of Crotalaria extract and pure monocrotaline alkaloid, but was much slower than retrorsine. The rate of N-oxide formation was, in descending order, retrorsine, Eupatorium japonicum and Crotalaria/monocrotaline. It is concluded that the alkaloid in Eupatorium species is metabolized to "pyrrole" and an N-oxide metabolite in the liver, but hepatotoxicity is much lower when compared with that caused by Crotalaria. PMID- 2517382 TI - [A rare hemostatic disorder: pseudo von Willebrand's disease]. AB - A case of pseudo von Willebrand's disease occurring in a 26 year old pregnant woman is reported. The diagnosis was made during the 33rd week of pregnancy. The patient had excessive bleeding of minor wounds, and biological tests revealed a bleeding time exceeding 20 min, a greatly reduced level of Rco fraction of von Willebrand's factor (27%), the absence of high molecular weight von Willebrand's factor multimers, and a greatly increased platelet aggregation in small doses of ristocetin. The patient was allowed to give birth by the vaginal route, receiving 30 IU.kg-1 highly purified concentrated factor VIII, once cervical dilatation was complete. Uterine revision was carried out for safety's sake because of prolonged post-partum bleeding. Two red cell packs were transfused as haemoglobin concentration decreased from 106 g.l-1 to 80 g.l-1. The newborn also presented with biological signs of pseudo von Willebrand's disease, with a bleeding time exceeding 15 min, hypothrombocytopaenia, and a level of Rco fraction of von Willebrand's factor of 9%. Preoperative assessment should always include an investigation of primary haemostatic mechanisms. In case of pseudo von Willebrand's disease, platelet transfusion combined or not with the transfusion of highly purified factor VIII seems to be useful. Investigation of other family members for a pseudo von Willebrand's disease trait is essential. PMID- 2517383 TI - Psychopharmacology of eating disorders. PMID- 2517384 TI - Intraoperative electron beam therapy and external photon beam therapy with lumpectomy as primary treatment for early breast cancer. PMID- 2517385 TI - [Peroperative open-abdomen radiotherapy using electron therapy. The Saint-Louis experience. Fifteen cases]. PMID- 2517386 TI - Implantation of iodine-125 seeds as a form of intraoperative brachytherapy. PMID- 2517388 TI - [Epidemiological evaluation of the helminthiases, among which intestinal bilharziasis, in the Fort-Dauphin region (southeast Malagasy)]. PMID- 2517390 TI - Tuberculosis: high prevalence in a village on the southeast coast of Madagascar. PMID- 2517387 TI - [Mutagenic effect of mitomycin C on different strains of oleandomycin producer Streptomyces antibioticus]. AB - Mitomycin C, a DNA-tropic antibiotic, was shown to have a lethal effect on spore sprouts of two strains of Streptomyces antibioticus, an organism producing oleandomycin. When the time of exposure to the antibiotic increased there was an almost equal decrease in the survival rate. The mutagen action on the morphological variation and antibiotic production of the two closely related strains were diverse due to their genetic differences. The strain isolated after the culture treatment with a chemical mutagen and subjected to a more prolonged maintaining selection showed lower variation with respect to its colony morphology. The other strain isolated after treatment of the culture with high concentrations of its own antibiotic showed lower variation with respect to its antibiotic production property. The shift in the antibiotic production in the direction of the low active variants was characteristic of the both highly productive strains. PMID- 2517389 TI - [Bacterial, viral and parasitological study of a population of Chaerophon pumila bats in Anjiro, Madagascar]. AB - This bacterial, viral and parasitical study of the insect eater bats Chaerophon pumila allowed to isolate, from stools of 88 of them, 115 bacterial strains to Enterobacteriaceae family: some of them were identified as very atypical, rare or potentially pathogenic for man. From salivary glands, brain and blood, 13 viral strains were also isolated: 8 of them were less identified as Dakar-bat virus. Any parasite was observed. PMID- 2517391 TI - [Pathogenic bacteria encountered in nutritional disorders]. PMID- 2517393 TI - Unusual peaks of oxygen consumption under special alimentary conditions. AB - Oxygen consumption (VO2), carbon dioxide production (VCO2), the resulting respiratory quotient (RQ), and motor activity were recorded simultaneously by an on-line computer every ten seconds during 16-20 hours in two decerebrate male rats. Being aphagic and adipsic the rats were fed twice daily by gastric intubation with a mixture of powdered milk plus sugar or plus sunflower oil (approx. 300 KJ daily) in 10-20 ml tap water. In all seven tests performed on these rats the recordings presented very steep reductions of RQ due every time to steep increases in VO2 without increases in VCO2. Mean number of VO2 peaks in all experiments was 12.4 +/- 1.8 (SE) with mean duration of 21.3 +/- 2.8 min. Two normal male rats were fed the same diet and on the same schedule: they presented similar VO2 peaks in 8 out of 12 experiments. Mean number was 8.7 +/- 1.0 with mean duration of 13.6 +/- 2.2 min. The VO2 peak periods never occurred in rats fed ad libitum. In the two normal rats oil ingestion produced more effect than sugar. It is suggested that the phenomenon could be due to a metabolic imbalance possibly of hepatic origin, more evident in decerebrate rats. VO2 peaks could be produced by enhanced ketogenesis, gluconeogenesis and/or extra-mitochondrial (peroxisomal, microsomal) oxidation. PMID- 2517392 TI - Experimental uterine eosinophilia in the rat. The role of some inhibitors of arachidonic acid metabolism. AB - The mechanism of estrogen induced eosinophilia is not well understood. It has been proposed that type II estrogen receptors, present both in eosinophils and uterine tissues, can act as anchorage mechanism for the attachment of eosinophils within the uterus. However an explanation based on the existence of chemotactic mediators is more likely. We studied the effects of the lipoxygenase inhibitor BW755 and two different doses of indomethacin in a model of acute uterine eosinophilia promoted by 17-beta-estradiol in young rats; simultaneously estrogen receptors were studied with immunocytochemical methods using monoclonal antibodies. BW755 and a high dose of indomethacin sharply reduced the estrogen induced eosinophilia, whereas a low dose of indomethacin enhanced the steroid effect. No estrogen receptors were found with immunohistochemical methods neither in eosinophils nor in endothelial cells in any of the groups. A role for the lipoxygenase products of arachidonic acid, mainly leukotrine B4 as the chemical mediators responsible of eosinophil chemotaxis in be estrogen primed uterus is suggested. PMID- 2517394 TI - A fast spheroplast formation procedure in some 2,5-diketo-D-gluconate- and 2-keto L-gulonate- producing bacteria. AB - Calcium 2-keto-L-gulonate (Ca-2-KLG, a key intermediate in vitamin C synthesis) is produced from calcium 2,5-diketo D-gluconate (Ca-2,5-DKG) by a variety of bacteria. A few bacterial species which efficiently convert glucose to Ca-2,5-DKG have been isolated in our laboratory. Our bacterial collection included species that possess the genes for production of Ca-2-KLG from Ca-2,5-DKG; however, the yield of the former is poor. A procedure for the preparation of spheroplasts in Ca-2,5-DKG- and Ca-2-KLG-producing bacteria was developed for the construction of recombinants (fusants), combining the genes for conversion of glucose to Ca-2-KLG efficiently by protoplast fusion. The standard procedure for spheroplast formation in Gram negative bacteria by the Tris-sucrose-EDTA-lysozyme system did not work in the organisms under investigation. The need for an alternative method was necessary. Our results show that, while the Tris-NaCl-EDTA-lysozyme system (pH 8.3) worked very well with bacterial strains of Gluconobacter oxydans (ATCC9937) and Acetobacter melanogenus (NCIM2259), the Tris-sucrose-EDTA-lysozyme system worked well for Erwinia herbicola (ATCC21998), Pseudomonas chlororaphis (NCIM2041) and Corynebacterium species (ATCC31090). However, none of these systems produced spheroplasts in Brevibacterium ketosoreductum (ATCC21914), for which a separate system is under development. PMID- 2517395 TI - Protection analysis (or "footprinting") of specific protein-DNA complexes in crude nuclear extracts using methidiumpropyl-EDTA-iron (II). AB - Endonuclease protection or "footprinting" analysis is a powerful technique for identifying the nucleotides involved in a protein-DNA interaction. DNase I is the most often employed endonucleolytic agent; however, this endonuclease does not exhibit the true nonsequence-specific cleavage desired for this type of analysis. Methidiumpropyl-EDTA (MPE) is a synthetic DNA intercalator that cleaves DNA in the presence of ferrous ion and oxygen. Cleavage by MPE exhibits no sequence specificity, a characteristic that makes this reagent better suited for protection analysis. Here we report a generally applicable technique for MPE protection (or "footprinting") analysis of specific DNA-protein complexes from a crude nuclear extract. We have used this method to identify the nucleotides of the immunoglobulin (Ig) heavy chain promoter region that are involved in complex formation with a protein that binds the octameric sequence ATGCAAAT, and we compare our results to those obtained previously using DNase I. PMID- 2517396 TI - Effect of lipid and protein fractions from fetal pulmonary surfactant on prostaglandin E production by a human amnion cell line. AB - Discs of amnion and choriodecidua prepared from women delivered at term were incubated with and without surfactant prepared from human amniotic fluid and the output of prostaglandin E (PGE) was estimated by radioimmunoassay. Surfactant stimulated the release of PGE in both tissues. The stimulatory effect was characterized further using cultured human amnion cells. The effect was dose- and time-dependent and required for full expression both protein and lipid components of surfactant. Arachidonate constituted about 3.5% of the fatty acids of fetal surfactant phospholipids. These findings suggest that surfactant is an important source of arachidonate for intrauterine PG synthesis. PMID- 2517398 TI - Molecular characterization of the plasmid-encoded lactose-PTS of Lactobacillus casei. PMID- 2517397 TI - Molecular details of Escherichia coli EIImtl catalyzed mannitol transport and phosphorylation. PMID- 2517399 TI - Genetics of the phosphotransferase system of Bacillus subtilis. PMID- 2517400 TI - Structural and functional domains of the mannitol-specific enzyme II of the E. coli phosphoenolpyruvate-dependent phosphotransferase system. PMID- 2517402 TI - [Energy state of hepatocytes of fed rats isolated by the means of EDTA and vibration]. AB - The energy state of mitochondria in fed rat hepatocytes isolated by the use of non-enzymatic method including liver perfusion with an EDTA-containing solution with a further mild mechanical effect of tissue fragments by vibration has been studied. The isolation procedure used permits to obtain significant amounts of hepatocytes whose viability is not less than 80%. The endogenous respiration rate (10-15 nm O2/min.mln cells) is slightly stimulated by succinate. In the course of incubation in a balanced salt medium, the cells accumulate ATP and the lipophilic cation, tetraphenylphosphonium. Data from the inhibitory analysis testify to the fact that tetraphenylphosphonium accumulation reflects the membrane potential of intact cell mitochondria, which are in a metabolic state similar to state 3. PMID- 2517401 TI - Structure and function of proteins involved in sugar transport by the PTS of gram positive bacteria. PMID- 2517403 TI - [Interaction of placental diamine oxidase with carboxyl-substituted lysine]. AB - The interaction between diamine oxidase (DAO) of human placenta and carboxyl substituted lysines, including N-terminal lysine containing peptides, occurs at rather a high rate and is characterized by the following features. First, the enzyme catalyzes the oxidative deamination of one amino group in the N-terminal lysine at a rate which is inversely proportional to the peptide length. Second, the bound derivatives induce a noncompetitive reversible inhibition of DAO which is enhanced during their coincubation. The inhibiting capacity of this compound is directly proportional to the peptide length; therefore, the tripeptides with the N-terminal lysine can be effective inhibitors that are not practically deaminated in the presence of DAO. Third, the binding of carboxyl-substituted lysines to DAO as well as the inhibition reaction are reversible processes and, with some limitations, can be used for enzyme purification. An analysis of the total activity of DAO in the placenta before and after fractionation of tissue extracts on molecular sieves showed that part of the enzyme is in a blocked state in vivo which does not exclude the possibility that N-terminal lysine containing peptides are related to natural DAO inhibitors. PMID- 2517404 TI - [Effect of a Ca-channel blocker, ryodipine, on focal and generalized epileptic activity]. AB - The experiments were performed on 102 freely moving Wistar rats. Epileptic foci were produced by the application of a filter paper soaked in a sodium benzylpenicillin solution (20,000 IU/ml) onto sensorimotor cortex. It was shown that an intraperitoneal administration of ryodipine (1,2 and 5 mg/kg) during a steady epileptic activity (EA) resulted in suppression of EA in most animals. Antiepileptic effect of ryodipine was manifested by a decreased frequency and amplitude of interictal discharges and a less frequent appearance of ictal discharges (ID). Prior administration of ryodipine (2 mg/kg) 30 min before producing the focus of EA resulted in an increased latency and decreased number of ID, and shortening of the duration of the focus of EA. Generalized convulsions were induced by intraperitoneal of pentylenetetrazol (60 mg/kg). Ryodipine (2 mg/kg, 30 min before pentylenetetrazol) increased latency to first convulsive episodes and delayed the development of generalized tonic-clonic seizures. PMID- 2517406 TI - Alterations in the fatty acyl composition of plasma cholesteryl esters in Brazilian patients with hepatosplenic schistosomiasis mansoni. AB - 1. The dyslipoproteinemia commonly occurring in the hepatosplenic forms of schistosomiasis mansoni in Brazilian patients is characterized by low plasma levels of cholesteryl esters and of the cholesterol-esterifying enzyme, lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase (LCATase, EC.2.3.1.43). 2. In the present study, normal healthy individuals and patients suffering from hepatosplenic schistosomiasis mansoni were compared for the fatty acyl compositions of circulating plasma cholesteryl esters and of those formed in vitro by the action of LCATase on a) the endogenous plasma lipoproteins and b) an excess of lipoprotein substrate composed of heat-inactivated plasma. 3. In patient plasma the proportions of saturated and monounsaturated cholesteryl esters were higher and those of diunsaturated and polyunsaturated esters were lower than in the control group. 4. Similar differences were observed between patients and controls in the proportions of the cholesteryl ester subclasses formed in vitro by the action of LCATase on endogenous plasma lipoproteins. 5. Incubation of fresh normal or patient plasma with excess heat-inactivated plasma as substrate for LCATase produced proportions of cholesteryl ester subclasses similar to those formed during incubation of nonheated aliquots of the appropriate substrate plasma. 6. We conclude that the alterations in fatty acyl composition of plasma cholesteryl esters in patients with hepatosplenic schistosomiasis mansoni do not appear to be a direct consequence of the low levels of LCATase activity in patient plasma. PMID- 2517405 TI - [Immunoenzyme analysis of the change in the expression of class II antigens of the major histocompatibility complex under the influence of interferon preparations]. AB - The interferons (IFN's) are natural regulators of the immune response. This quality of IFN depends to a large extent on their capacity to change the expression of the antigens of the second (II) class of the Major Histocompatibility Complex. The most effective modulator of the expression of the antigens of the class II MHC is beta-IFN. The aim of this work is to explore with the aid of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) peculiarities of an action of the preparations alpha- and beta-IFN's of a man on the expression of the antigens of the second class on macrophages of mice with using monoclonal antibodies to the products of subregions I-A and I-E MHC. As a result of exploration we have the following: both preparations IFN's (leukinterferon and beta-IFN) reinforce the expression of the antigens of the second class on the macrophages of mice spleens. With combined influence preparation alpha-IFN and beta-IFN show interweakened effect on the expression of the antigens of the class MHC. Exposed regularities of the expression have the same type for products of subregions I-A and I-E H-2 of mice complex. ELISA is the sensible method of determination of a level of the expression of the antigens of the class II MHC on the cell's populations. PMID- 2517407 TI - Effects of undernutrition on the ontogeny of muscarinic receptors and acetylcholinesterase activity in the rat motor cortex. AB - The effect of undernutrition on the ontogeny of muscarinic receptor density and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity was studied in the motor cerebral cortex homogenates of female Wistar rats aged 12-19 days, 2-3 months and 5-8 months. Experimental animals were fed a protein-calorie deficient diet. The binding assays, using (3H)-N-methylscopolamine as a ligand, indicated a significant increase in muscarinic receptor density in the motor cortex of 5-8-month old control rats (36%) compared to neonatal controls. No increase was observed for undernourished rats at any of the ages studied. No significant difference was observed in AChE activity at any age of either group studied. PMID- 2517408 TI - An animal model for the study of arterial thrombosis. AB - 1. Thrombus formation induced by electrical stimulation of the carotid artery was investigated in anesthetized rabbits and rats. Occlusive Grade III thrombi were produced consistently in 34 normal New Zealand rabbits and 58 untreated albino Wistar rats. Thrombus formation was monitored continuously in some of the animals with a magnetic flowmeter or a thermistor probe applied on the carotid. 2. The usefulness of the model for the screening of drugs was tested by treating the animals with warfarin, heparin, prostacyclin (PGI2), dihydroprostacyclin (DiHPGI2), prostaglandin E1 (PGE1), and prostaglandin D2 (PGD2). 3. All of the drugs except warfarin were infused continuously into the venous circulation during the entire experimental period at a rate of 0.2 ml/min. 4. Warfarin (10 mg/kg), administered by gavage 24 h before the experiment, prevented thrombus formation, as did heparin iv (greater than 34 U/kg). 5. Of the four platelet antiaggregatory prostaglandins tested, PGI2 was the most potent inhibitor of thrombus formation and DiHPGI2 the least active, as evaluated by visual inspection of stimulated arterial segments which were excised 30 min (rabbits) or 15 min (rats) after the stimulation was stopped. PGI2 was less active in rats than in rabbits (Threshold Protective Dose ratio ca. 4:1). PGE1 and PGD2 showed intermediate activity in both animal models. PMID- 2517409 TI - [Quantitative and qualitative aspects of the protein intake in total parenteral nutrition following uncomplicated abdominal surgery]. PMID- 2517410 TI - [Echographic study of the morbidity due to urinary bilharziasis in a hyperendemic village in Niger]. AB - Three hundred and seven patients, 130 children and 207 adults, from a hyperendemic village, underwent an ultrasonography of bladder and kidneys. Prevalence of bladder lesions is 79.3% in children and 61.9% in adults, prevalence of hydronephrosis is 36.1% in children and 9.7% in adults. These study confirms the importance of urologic lesions from schistosomiasis in the irrigation schemes of the Niger river. There is no relationship between frequency and importance of lesions and urinary egg count. PMID- 2517411 TI - Cost-effectiveness of routine and campaign vaccination strategies in Ecuador. AB - A national household coverage survey of 3697 Ecuadorean children, carried out in July 1986, provided an opportunity for a cost-effectiveness analysis of (1) routine vaccination services based in fixed facilities and (2) mass immunization campaigns. A major purpose of the campaigns was to complement the routine services and to accelerate immunization activities. Based on the coverage survey, the Program for Reduction of Maternal and Childhood Illness (PREMI) and earlier campaigns increased the proportion of children under 5 years who were fully vaccinated from 43% to 64%. In one year, the PREMI campaign was responsible for fully vaccinating 11% of children under one year, 21% of 1-2-year-old children, and 13% of all children under 5 years. The campaign also helped ensure that vaccinations were completed when children were still very young and at greatest risk. The average cost per vaccination dose (in 1985 US$ prices) was approximately $0.29 for fixed facilities and $0.83 for the PREMI campaign. Total national costs were $675,000 and $1,665,000 for routine and campaign services respectively. The cost per fully vaccinated child (FVC) was $4.39 for routine vaccination services and $8.60 for the campaign. The cost per death averted was about $1900 for routine vaccination services, $4200 for the PREMI campaign, and $3200 for the combined programme. Because of Ecuador's lower mortality rates, the costs per death averted in Ecuador from both vaccination strategies are not as low as those from studies of vaccinations in Africa. The campaigns, though less cost-effective than routine services, significantly improved the vaccination coverage of younger children who had been missed by the routine services. The costs per FVC of both the campaign and the routine services compare favourably with such programmes in other countries. PMID- 2517412 TI - The costs of public primary health care services in rural Indonesia. AB - Described are the results of a cost study of national rural health services carried out in Indonesia between November 1986 and March 1987. Detailed costings of government inputs to all public health services below the district hospital level were made for 41 subdistricts in five provinces that were representative of the different regions of the country. The total costs of services as well as the average costs for specific service functions were estimated for the whole country as well as for the different provinces. The results indicate a low overall level of government spending on rural primary health care. Regional differences in this respect were not significant, suggesting that the government policy of encouraging regional balance in allocations has been successful. The average costs for most services were much greater than the charges made to patients, and this provided information on the current level of government subsidies. There was a large variability in the average costs, indicating that the existing system is inefficient, that some districts were able to attain much higher levels of efficiency than others within the existing constraints, and that improvements in this respect are possible. PMID- 2517413 TI - [A preliminary study on diagnosis of schistosomiasis japonica by indirect immunoperoxidase assay using daughter sporocyst-containing Oncomelania tissue sections]. AB - Schistosoma japonicum daughter sporocysts in Oncomelania tissue sections were, for the first time, used as antigen in the diagnosis of schistosomiasis japonica by indirect immunoperoxidase assay (IIPA-DS). The most strong peroxidase reaction was localized on the tegument of the daughter sporocysts and cercariae, and at some parts of cercarial parenchyma, when IIPA-DS was carried out. Of 112 sera from proven cases of schistosomiasis japonica, 106 (94.6%) were positive, the range of titre dilution was from 1:1 to 1:160, the geometric mean of titres was 1:20. IIPA-DS highly coincided with IHA, COP and ELISA in both sensitivity and strength of reaction. Sera from 101 blood donors and 24 normal rabbits were all negative. No cross reaction with sera from 24 patients with paragonimiasis was observed. PMID- 2517414 TI - [Cellular responses elicited by challenged schistosomula of Schistosoma japonicum in the skin of naive and chronically infected mice]. AB - Naive and chronically infected C57BL/6 mice were challenged percutaneously over the ear pinna with Schistosoma japonicum cercariae. After 15 hours, the number of EOS increased significantly in the skin of chronically infected mice. Inflammatory cells aggregated in the vicinity of schistosomula or entrapped intact and disintegrated schistosomula, forming granulocytic micro-abscesses in both groups. Ultrastructure studies revealed that flattened EOS tightly attached to the schistosomulum surface and degranulated. Local tegument damage occurred in the area of attachment. NEU adherence did not seem to be as intimate as EOS, and degranulation was not seen. The tegument of the attached schistosomulum remained normal. The result suggested that EOS appeared to be the efficient killer cell against skin phase schistosomula of S. japonicum. PMID- 2517415 TI - [Comparison of immunoenzymatic staining technique (IEST), double gluing strip circumoval precipitin test (DGS-COPT) and conventional circumoval precipitin test (CV-COPT) for diagnosis of schistosomiasis japonica]. AB - IEST, DGS-COPT and CV-COPT using lyophilized ova of schistosoma japonicum were performed on sera from 120 cases of schistosomiasis japonica, 120 cases of schistosomiasis japonica 3-8 years after being cured with praziquantel and 120 healthy individuals by single-blind method. The sensitivity and specificity of IEST was 91.7% and 95.8% respectively which were significantly higher than that of both DGS-COPT and CV-COPT. The negative conversion rate of cured patients was 70.8% with IEST, 80.8% with DGS-COPT and 81.7% with CV-COPT. The results showed that IEST has higher diagnostic value for schistosomiasis than both COPT. DGS COPT has the same diagnostic value as CV-COPT, however, it was easy to perform and time-saving, thus it might be applied in the fields for practical purposes. PMID- 2517416 TI - [Humoral and cellular immunity in mice immunized with mutagenic NTG-attenuated cercariae of Schistosoma japonicum]. AB - Observation was made on humoral and cellular immunity in mice immunized with NTG attenuated cercariae. Results showed that the specific antibody in serum of immunized mice increased gradually. The titer by ELISA and IFA were more than 1:1,280 respectively at week 7 post-immunization with NTG-attenuated cercariae (15 min. pc or 60 min. ip). SDS-PAGE electrophoresis showed that there was an extra-band of IgG with MW, between 50,000 and 40,000 in the serum of immunized mice and there was no obvious difference in IgM bands. It suggested that there were differences in not only the increase of antibody titre, but also the composition of antibody post-immunization. The results also indicated that there were differences in levels of lymphocyte proliferative response to schistosome antigens at different weeks post-immunization. The proliferative response to SEA was greater in immunized mice than in infected mice, especially in lymph node lymphocytes. It suggested that NTG-attenuated cercariae did stimulate mice to produce immunity. The dynamic characteristics of humoral and cellular immunity may play roles in the induction of protective immunity against S. japonicum. PMID- 2517417 TI - [Studies on antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity to Schistosoma japonicum schistosomula in mice]. AB - In the presence of antischistosomular serum (Ab), the adherence of macrophages (Mo) eosinophils (Eos) and neutrophils(Neu) to and the killing effect on schistosomula of Schistosoma japonicum were studied with a mouse model. In vitro experiment showed that all the three kinds of effector cells could adhere to the surface of the schistosomula when opsonized with specific Ab resulting in the significant increase in the percentage of dead schistosomula. When SPA was added to the system, the percentage of schistosomula with adherent cells decreased markedly. It was revealed that the adherence of cells was at least partially through the binding of Fc fragment of IgG to Fc receptor on the cell surfaces. After having been incubated with Ab and/or cells for 18 h in vitro, the schistosomula were inoculated into the peritoneal cavity of mice. The adult recovery rate 6 weeks after inoculation in groups Eos + Ab and Mo + Ab were significantly lower than that of the control group (P less than 0.01). PMID- 2517418 TI - [The relation of schistosomiasis complicated by hepatitis B and primary cancer of the liver]. PMID- 2517419 TI - [Parenteral nutrition in children with protein-calorie malnutrition]. PMID- 2517420 TI - [Granuloma in cerebral parenchyma. A human model for the study of epilepsy]. PMID- 2517421 TI - Isolation, characterization and biological activities of a toxin from Bacillus megaterium (B-23). AB - Fungitoxic substance was isolated from the culture filtrate of B. megaterium (B 23). Age of culture and pH of medium influence the fungitoxicity of its culture filtrate. Partially purified toxin was thermolabile, non-dialysable, ethyl acetate soluble, vanillin-sulphuric acid positive and effective within a range of pH 5-9. It exhibited maximum UV absorption at 224 nm. Its melting point was 242 degrees C. The efficacy of this compound was tested on 4 jute parasites namely, C. corchori, C. gloeosporioides, M. roridum and A. citri, of which M. roridum and C. corchori were least and most sensitive to the toxin respectively. PMID- 2517423 TI - Effect of various organic compounds on synthesis of glucoamylase by an isolated strain Penicillium italicum. AB - Yeast extract (0.5%) stimulates the production of glucoamylase and cell synthesis while methylene blue (0.1 mM) activates the synthesis of glucoamylase. Studies on the metabolic changes during fermentation of glucoamylase in a selected medium by P. italicum show that the rate of production of glucoamylase and cellular growth are greatly accelerated between 48 and 168 hr. Rapid growth of cells during this period may account for enhanced utilization of maltose and NH4NO3 from the medium. The acid production remains constant from 48 to 144 hr. Different forms of nitrogen decrease steadily. Although methylene blue stimulates the production of glucoamylase in the broth it has practically no effect on the rate of utilization of amino and total nitrogen from the broth. PMID- 2517422 TI - Cobalt-induced inhibition of growth in cyanobacteria Anabaena doliolum and Anacystis nidulans: interaction with sulphur containing amino acids. AB - Cobalt, above 1 microM concentration was growth inhibitory for both A. doliolum and A. nidulans. Its toxicity was mitigated by sulphur containing amino acids (cystine and cysteine), however, methionine could not mitigate the cobalt toxicity at all. PMID- 2517424 TI - Sequential analysis of experimental oral carcinogenesis in hamster cheek pouch using 9,10-dimethyl-1-2-benzanthracene. AB - The utility of hamster cheek pouch model for studies on oral carcinogenesis has been explored using 9,10-dimethyl-1-2-benzanthracene as a carcinogen. Based on the morphological, histopathological and electron microscopic observations the hamster cheek pouch carcinogenesis can be separated into different stages starting from the normal to the fully grown carcinomas. This system is reliable, precise, consistent and can be used for the evaluation of different agents for initiating or promoting effects and as well as for the studies on mechanism of oral carcinogenesis. PMID- 2517425 TI - An evaluation of cardiac function in malnourished children by non-invasive methods. AB - Forty-six malnourished children between 3-48 mo with varying grades of malnutrition (PEM) were evaluated for left ventricular function by echocardiography. None of these children had any pre-existing cardiac disease, chronic illness or significant anemia. Children with Grades III and IV PEM had significantly smaller cardiac chamber size and ventricular wall thickness as compared to normally nourished children. Cardiac output as well as other indices of left ventricular function (percentage fractional shortening, mean rate of circumferential fibre shortening and ejection fraction) were also significantly decreased in severe PEM. The atrophic PEM heart does appear to show left ventricular dysfunction in moderately severe malnutrition. PMID- 2517427 TI - Carbonic anhydrase activity in fetal rat bone resorbing cells: inhibition by acetazolamide infusion. AB - Skeletal growth during late fetal development is characterized by intense formation and resorption of the cartilage and bone matrix. In this study, we have evaluated the possible role played by carbonic anhydrase during fetal bone resorption in vivo. Pregnant rats were infused continuously from days 14 to 21 of gestation with acetazolamide a specific inhibitor of carbonic anhydrase, using an osmotic minipump. Carbonic anhydrase activity in long bones of 21 days old fetuses was determined by a previously validated histochemical staining method. In vivo infusion of acetazolamide induced a dose-dependent decrease in the number of carbonic anhydrase-positive resorbing cells whereas the total number of resorbing cells was not affected. At the low dose of 8 mg/day per kg, the number of chondroclasts and osteoclasts was decreased by 14.2 and 12.3% respectively (P less than 0.001) whereas serum calcium and phosphate remained unchanged in mothers and fetuses. At the dose of 40 mg/day per kg, acetazolamide reduced further the number of carbonic anhydrase positive-chondroclasts and osteoclasts by 28.8 and 27.5%, respectively (P less than 0.001), and induced a significant fall in serum calcium and phosphorus in fetuses. This study shows that an in vivo 28% inhibition of carbonic anhydrase activity in resorbing cells lowers serum calcium and indicates that the enzyme plays a significant role in bone resorption during normal fetal long bone growth. PMID- 2517426 TI - Effect of zinc or copper deficiency on erythrocyte purine nucleoside phosphorylase and pyruvate kinase activity in the rat. AB - The effect of deficiencies of zinc or copper in the rat on the activity of purine nucleoside phosphorylase and pyruvate kinase in erythrocytes, liver and muscle was investigated. The data showed no effect of either zinc or copper deficiencies on the activity of these enzymes in the tissues tested. It is concluded that these enzymes are not useful markers for either zinc or copper deficiency. PMID- 2517428 TI - In vitro cellular cytotoxicity in Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis: relation with disease activity and treatment, and the effect of recombinant gamma interferon. AB - In a previous study using total mononuclear cells and lymphocytes, enriched by elutriation centrifugation, of patients with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis were found to have a decreased NK cell activity. In the present study the relation with disease activity and treatment, and the effect of recombinant gamma interferon (gamma-IFN) on NK cell and monocyte cytotoxicity has been studied in 19 patients with Crohn's disease, 11 with ulcerative colitis, two with indeterminate colitis and 12 healthy controls. Patients with active Crohn's disease and active ulcerative colitis were shown to have an impaired NK cell activity compared to the control group. However, no difference was found in the percentage of CD16 (Leu 11+) cells, as determined by fluorocytometry, between patients with active or inactive disease. Moreover, the NK cell impairment was not related to corticosteroid treatment. Recombinant gamma-interferon (gamma-IFN) stimulated significantly the cytotoxic activity of the total mononuclear cells and the monocyte-enriched fraction against all target cell lines, both in patients and controls. No relation was found between the increase in cytotoxicity by gamma-IFN and disease activity in the patients. Stimulation with gamma-IFN demonstrated that the monocyte cytotoxic response of inflammatory bowel disease patients is normal. The present study reveals that the impairment in NK cell activity in patients with inflammatory bowel disease is related to disease activity and therefore suggests to be secondary to the inflammatory process. PMID- 2517429 TI - Lymphocytes anticancer chemosensitivity testing in vitro--an approach to predict immunosuppressive effect of anticancer agents. AB - In an attempt to predict immunosuppression by chemotherapy, an in vitro lymphocytes chemosensitivity assay was developed. The effect of mitomycin C (MMC), carboquone (CQ), adriamycin (ADR) and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) on spleen cells of BALB/c mice were assessed by phytohemagglutinin (PHA) response inhibition assay. ADR and 5-FU highly suppressed PHA response, whereas MMC or CQ had only a slight influence. The administration of ADR or 5-FU to mice resulted in a significant decrease of peripheral blood lymphocytes and cortical thymocytes in number, and pretreatment with ADR or 5-FU prior to tumor inoculation shortened the survival time of the mice. All these four agents highly suppressed in vitro DNA synthesis of MOPC-104E plasmacytoma, but ADR or 5-FU did not induce complete regression of the tumor. MMC or CQ induced complete regression of MOPC-104E, but they did not induce complete regression of the tumor transplanted in athymic nude mice. These results suggest that T cells participate in tumor regression and immunosuppression reduces antitumor activity of the host and that PHA response inhibition assay may be useful to predict immunosuppressive effect of anticancer agents. PMID- 2517430 TI - Studies on the specificity of the L929 cell bioassay for the measurement of tumour necrosis factor. AB - We report a study of the specificity of the L929 cell cytotoxicity assay for tumour necrosis factor (TNF) in clinical samples. Normal human serum caused marked killing and detachment of L929 cells. Despite heating at 56 degrees C for 30 min, followed by dilution, normal human serum still retained significant activity that could not be neutralized by a monoclonal antibody to TNF. In part this latter cytotoxicity was spurious, and related to detachment and clumping of viable cells. Recombinant human interleukin 1-beta (rhIL1-beta) and interferon gamma (rhIFN-gamma) were not cytocidal, and did not synergize with recombinant human TNF (rhTNF) in the L929 cell bioassay. Although an antibody to TNF may be used to confirm specific activity, it is important to be aware of the limitations imposed by non-specific activity in serum and of the potential for synergy between TNF and other cytokines. PMID- 2517431 TI - Ramadan and the incidence of pharyngitis. PMID- 2517432 TI - Acute sporadic hepatitis non A non B clinical features and biochemical profile. AB - Hepatitis Non A Non B is the commonest type of sporadic hepatitis in Pakistan. To document its clinicopathological pattern, one hundred consecutive cases were studied. The clinical presentation indicates that it is a disease of mild severity presenting with anorexia and dark coloured urine. The rise in serum bilirubin transaminases and alkaline phosphatase is moderate. Monophasic pattern of transaminase elevation is seen. Chronic sequelae do not occur. The disease shows certain differences from western countries and Japan. It resembles hepatitis A. The possibility that it is caused by a closely related virus may have to be considered. PMID- 2517434 TI - Neurological disorders in AIDS: a study of 18 cases. AB - Neurological disorders were studied in 18 patients diagnosed to have AIDS and their findings are analysed. Amongst the problems seen were toxoplasmosis (9), cryptococcal meningitis (5), tuberculous meningitis (1), AIDS dementia complex (3), peripheral neuropathy (2), vertebrobasilar stroke, and a possible AIDS myelopathy in one case each. Their findings are discussed, and literature on the neurological disorders in AIDS reviewed. PMID- 2517433 TI - Peritoneal macrophages transfusion in the treatment of chronic postoperative wound infections. AB - Four patients with chronic post-operative wound infections and wound gapping that failed to respond to antibiotics were treated by allogeneic macrophage transfusions. No harmful effects were observed following macrophage transfusion and the chronic infections were eradicated in the treated patients with complete healing of wounds. Haemoglobin and white cell count were increased after cell transfusion. It could be concluded that allogeneic macrophage transfusion can combat chronic resistant infections and stimulate both wound healing and haemopoiesis. PMID- 2517435 TI - Efficacy of a home made quality control serum. AB - With increasing automation in Clinical Laboratories, the requirements for quality control material have greatly increased in order to monitor performance. The constant use of commercial control material is not economically feasible for many countries because of non-availability or the high cost of these materials. Here we describe a simple technique to prepare Home Made Quality Control serum using blood from polycythaemic patients. This preparation is stable for about six months without any alterations in the concentration of any of the chemical constituents. Extensive use of Home Made Quality Control sera in our laboratories have saved about 69% of the amount spent on the commercial material without any compromise in quality of the laboratory performance. PMID- 2517436 TI - Hydatid disease at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre Karachi. PMID- 2517437 TI - Successful correction of acute complete inversion of uterus 24 hours after delivery. PMID- 2517438 TI - Fracture of the penis. PMID- 2517439 TI - Weakening of antigen D and development of anti-D in a patient with acute myeloid leukaemia. PMID- 2517441 TI - Regional anaesthesia in general practice. Ulnar nerve block. PMID- 2517440 TI - Disease: abnormalities of copper, zinc and magnesium in blood. PMID- 2517442 TI - Effects of transdermal therapeutic system-nitroglycerin in patients with heart failure. Influence on hemodynamic changes. AB - Fourteen patients suffering from severe heart failure with 18 mmHg or higher diastolic pulmonary arterial pressure were given a transdermal therapeutic system of nitroglycerin (TTS-NTG). They were evaluated for changes in the hemodynamic responses over 24 hours. Diastolic pulmonary arterial pressure decreased from 27.1 +/- 2.3 mmHg (mean +/- SE) to 22.4 +/- 1.7 mmHg after 1 hour (p less than 0.01), which was maintained throughout the trial. Cardiac index increased from 2.42 +/- 0.13 l/min/m2 to 2.64 +/- 0.16 l/min/m2 after 1 hour (p less than 0.01). The analysis of cardiac and vascular function curves in individual patients suggested that the improvement of hemodynamics was induced mainly in six patients with an increase of contractility and in four patients with a reduction of afterload. No changes were observed in three patients in either contractility or afterload, and a decrease in contractility was seen in one patient. These results suggest that TTS-NTG can be transcutaneously absorbed well enough to produce improved hemodynamic responses in patients with severe heart failure by several mechanisms and maintain these effects over 24 hours. PMID- 2517443 TI - Unusual occurrence of six anti-erythrocyte alloantibodies in an Rh(D)-negative man with myelodysplastic syndrome. AB - We report an Rh(D)-negative man with myelodysplastic syndrome who produced six anti-erythrocyte alloantibodies (anti-D, -C, -E, -Dia, -Jka and -S) in succession. Three of these antibodies (anti-E, -Jka and -S) were not noted until delayed hemolytic transfusion reactions occurred. Treatment with cortico-steroids was effective in preventing both further formations of antibodies and other transfusion reactions. It was very difficult to find blood compatible with the patient, but repetitive blood transfusions were required for his progressive anemia and thrombocytopenia. Several problems concerning the transfusion of blood in such a case are discussed. PMID- 2517444 TI - Sudden onset of thrombocytopenia after the treatment with chemotherapeutic agent(s) in a patient with lymphangitis carcinomatosa. AB - Cisplatin (CDDP 100 mg/m2, div), adriamycin (ADR 20 mg/body, iv) and futrafur uracil conjugate (UFT 200 mg/day, po) were administered on the same day to a 51 year-old housewife with lymphangitis carcinomatosa of the lung. During the CDDP infusion, the patient unexpectedly became highly febrile. On the following day, the patient developed purpura on the upper and lower extremities, and her platelet count was 3.2 x 10(4)/mm3 in spite of being 32.4 x 10(4)/mm3 on the day before chemotherapy. The platelet count recovered to 9.4 x 10(4)/mm3 on day 3, and increased to a maximum of 56.1 x 10(4)/mm3 on day 20. Previously, we had treated several patients with adenocarcinoma by the same protocol, but never experienced such a case that developed a sudden fall in their platelet count. Although the true mechanisms remain to be solved, this case is very interesting from a standpoint of drug-induced thrombocytopenia. PMID- 2517446 TI - [Problems with nursing: (1). Tube feeding of a patient with a cognition disorder; (2). Use of a portable toilet after prolonged bedrest]. PMID- 2517445 TI - Spinocerebellar degeneration and neuropeptides. PMID- 2517447 TI - [Innovation in tube feeding]. PMID- 2517449 TI - [Treatment of tuberculosis]. AB - Tuberculosis appears to be a diagnostic challenge and an important therapeutical problem in industrialized and in developing countries, where most infections occur. Besides several rifamycin derivatives, new molecules (fluorinated quinolones, macrolides, beta-lactam antibiotics) are being explored in the face of increasing bacterial-resistance with the aim of improving the efficacy and safety of anti-tuberculous drugs, shortening the period of treatment or allowing intermittent regimens. At present, in severe forms of the disease three or more of the available anti-tuberculous agents must be administered simultaneously for at least 3-4 months and two for the following 6-7 months. Nevertheless, a variety of highly effective 6 months regimens are currently used for the treatment of less severe tuberculosis. PMID- 2517448 TI - Successful orthotopic heart transplantation in dogs after 24 hours of continuous perfusion with Bretschneider HTK cardioplegic solution. AB - In 12 dogs the hearts after excision were perfused for 24 hours with Bretschneider HTK cardioplegic solution. Six of these hearts were used only to assess myocardial HEP and ultrastructure during 24 hours of conservation. In the next six dogs orthotopic heart transplantation was performed to evaluate functional outcome after prolonged preservation. After 24 hours of continuous perfusion of the donor heart the ATP level was completely comparable with control, preischemic value. Also ultrastructure of the myocytes was perfectly preserved. All transplanted hearts recovered completely upon reperfusion without a need of inotropic support. Good functional outcome after transplantation was correlated with about 70% of myocardial HEP content and intact ultrastructure of the myocytes. We concluded that continuous perfusion with Bretschneider HTK cardioplegic solution makes successful heart transplantation possible after 24 hours of preservation. PMID- 2517450 TI - Effect of carbon dioxide on the utilization of brain capillary reserve and flow. AB - This study investigated effects of increased arterial carbon dioxide on the brain capillary perfusion pattern. Conscious rats were exposed to a 0%, 8% or 12% CO2 in air gas mixture. Arterial blood pressure, heart rate, arterial blood gases and pH were recorded, and either regional cerebral blood flow or the percent of capillary volume/mm3 or number/mm2 perfused were determined in cortical, hypothalamic, pontine or medullary regions of the brain. Arterial PCO2 increased from 37 +/- 1 in control to 74 +/- 1 torr in the high CO2 group. A position linear relationship was found between cerebral blood flow and arterial PCO2 in all examined regions. Approximately half of the capillaries in the examined regions were perfused under normocapnic conditions. Increasing arterial PCO2 had no effect on the percent of the capillary bed perfused in the cortex or hypothalamus. However, there was a significant linear relationship between carbon dioxide tension and the percent of the microvasculature perfused in the hindbrain. The percent of capillaries/mm2 perfused increased significantly in the medulla (to 60 +/- 5%) and pons (70 +/- 4%) with 12% CO2 in air. These data suggest that carbon dioxide may have differential effects on diffusion distances affecting the hindbrain to a greater extent than the forebrain. PMID- 2517451 TI - Role of zinc in regulating the testicular function. Part 1. Effect of dietary zinc deficiency on serum levels of gonadotropins, prolactin and testosterone in male albino rats. AB - Hypogonadism is a major manifestation of zinc deficiency in both humans and animals. In this study, we try to elucidate the main role of zinc in regulating the testicular function. Ninety male weanling albino rats were divided into three groups: control, zinc-deficient (ZD), and zinc-supplemented (ZS) groups. Six rats from each group were sacrificed every two weeks over a total period of ten weeks. Serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), prolactin (PRL) and testosterone (T) were estimated by radioimmunoassay technique. Serum zinc concentrations were also determined. Data revealed that serum zinc concentrations were significantly low in ZD group compared to both control and ZS groups. Normal FSH and LH but low PRL and T levels were demonstrated in sera of ZD group compared to both control and ZS groups. We came to the following conclusions: zinc deficiency has no effect on the pituitary gonadotropin output. Zinc deficiency affects the testicular function either directly through its effect on the testicular steroidogenesis and/or indirectly through its effect on the pituitary synthesis and/or secretion of PRL. PMID- 2517452 TI - Role of zinc in regulating the testicular function. Part 2. Effect of dietary zinc deficiency on gonadotropins, prolactin and testosterone levels as well as 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity in testes of male albino rats. AB - Induced zinc deficiency in male albino rats caused a great reduction in the testicular levels of testosterone as compared to control and zinc-supplemented (ZS) rats. Estimation of the testicular levels of follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone and prolactin (PRL) in the zinc-deficient (ZD) rats showed higher levels in comparison with both control and zinc-supplemented rats. However, the increase in PRL levels was statistically insignificant. A great reduction in the activity of 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, an important enzyme involved in testosterone biosynthesis, was demonstrated histochemically in the testes of ZD rats as compared to both control and ZS ones. These results reflect a direct action of zinc deficiency on the testicular steroidogenesis and strongly support the idea that the hypogonadal state associated with zinc deficiency results mainly from some alteration in the testicular steroidogenesis or in other words Leydig cell failure. PMID- 2517453 TI - The fate of aflatoxins during the production of "Ogiri", a West African fermented melon seed condiment from artificially contaminated seeds. AB - Twenty-six market samples and four laboratory-prepared samples of "ogiri" were screened for aflatoxin contamination. Aflatoxins were not detected in any of the samples. The fermented product (ogiri) was prepared with Aspergillus flavus contaminated melon seeds. Losses of 64.7% aflatoxin B1 and 82.9% aflatoxin G1 were observed at the end of the third day of fermentation of the ground melon seeds. The samples were completely detoxified at the fourth day of fermentation. Increase in pH of the mash from 6.2 to 7.2 was observed during fermentation. PMID- 2517454 TI - Some properties of Streptococcus faecalis subsp. liquefaciens isolated from cheese with special reference to production of bitterness. AB - Streptococcus faecalis subsp. liquefaciens was examined for proteolysis and development of bitterness in sterile buffaloes' skim milk with and without some additives. Cell population and the pH of milk were the most important factors in the breakdown of casein and development of bitterness. Sodium chloride level, altering the final concentration of bacteria in milk, had a direct role in the production of bitter peptides. Calcium ions up to 5 mM did not affect proteolysis whereas higher concentrations were inhibitory. Electrophoretic analysis of proteose-peptone formed in sterile skim milk with and without NaCl revealed the presence of 3 peptides, 2 of which were probably associated with bitterness. S. faecalis subsp. liquefaciens produced acidity slowly, but was the most acid producer (1.25% after 72 h) of the streptococci. However, milk coagulated enzymatically and the curd shrinkage was related to salt-dependent acidity. Strains of the organism coagulated fresh citrated human plasma within 21 h at 30 degrees C, but without any visible fibrinolysis. The strains also were all alpha haemolytic with occasionally a very few beta-haemolytic variants on sheep blood agar. On human blood agar, a weak alpha-reaction was given. PMID- 2517456 TI - 12(R)- and 12(S)-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids: chemistry, biology, and pharmacology. PMID- 2517455 TI - [Plasminogen activators in tumor tissue]. PMID- 2517457 TI - Spices: antiplatelet activity and prostanoid metabolism. PMID- 2517458 TI - Control of the optokinetic reflex by the nucleus of the optic tract in primates. AB - Physiological and anatomical experiments clearly established the existence of a pretectal relay of visual information to the ipsilateral inferior olive in the macaque monkey. Horseradish peroxidase injected into the inferior olivary nucleus retrogradely labelled neurons in the nucleus of the optic tract (NOT) and the dorsal terminal nucleus of the accessory optic tract (DTN). The response characteristics of NOT-DTN neurones are described in this chapter. The visual receptive fields of neurones in NOT and DTN in anaesthetized and paralysed macaque monkeys prefer horizontal ipsiversive movements of single objects or whole field random dot patterns, i.e. neurones in the left NOT-DTN prefer leftward movements and vice versa. The directional tuning widths of NOT-DTN neurones are very broad. Directions withing a mean range of 127 +/- 25 degrees visual angle elicit response strengths greater than 50% of the maximal response. Visual latencies to reversals in directions of stimulus movement are in a range from 40 to 80 ms (mean 61 +/- 13 ms). Combining two visual stimuli by moving a random dot pattern and a single bar of light simultaneously but in opposite directions causes NOT-DTN neurones to respond to each stimulus as soon as it moves in the cell's preferred direction. The reduced overall response strengths indicate additional inhibitory interactions. All NOT-DTN neurones can be activated from each eye. Interactions between the two eyes are modest and unspecific. Optical speeds of stimulus movement vary for different NOT-DTN neurones (4-60 deg/s). The effective range of speeds is broad (0.1-400 deg/s for the total population). With oscillating horizontal stimulation NOT-DTN neurones follow repetition rates up to 4 Hz. Receptive fields are mostly large (20-40 degrees visual angle), include the fovea, and extend up to 20 degrees into the ipsilateral hemifield. The sensitivity to moving stimuli is highest near the fovea. Our results thus indicate that direction selective cells in the NOT and DTN have all the properties and connections which are necessary and sufficient to control the stability of the image on the retina by supplying retinal slip information to the velocity storage integrator in the brainstem (Raphan et al., 1979). PMID- 2517459 TI - Control of forelimb muscle activity by populations of corticomotoneuronal and rubromotoneuronal cells. AB - We review and synthesize evidence on the activity of corticomotoneuronal (CM) and rubromotoneuronal (RM) cells and single motor units in forearm muscles in monkeys performing alternating wrist movements. The CM and RM cells were identified by post-spike facilitation of rectified forelimb EMG activity. RM cells facilitated more muscles per cell (mean: 3.0 of 6 synergist muscles) than CM cells (2.4/6). Both groups had "reciprocal" cells which also suppressed antagonists of their facilitated target muscles. Unlike CM cells, some RM cells cofacilitated flexor and extensor muscles (5.8 or 12 muscles). During performance of a standard ramp and-hold force tracking task the firing patterns of CM and RM cells, as well as single motor units, fell into distinct response types. Each population had phasic tonic and tonic cells. Unique to the CM population were cells whose discharge increased during the static hold period; unique to RM cells were bidirectionally responsive and unmodulated neurons. Many motor units showed decrementing discharge. To estimate the ensemble activities of these populations the response histograms of different cells were summed (with force ramps aligned) in proportion to the relative frequency of each cell type. The population response histogram of CM cells was phasic-tonic, consistent with the predominant response type. The population response of RM cells was also phasic-tonic, but showed a shallower phasic modulation relative to discharge that was sustained during both directions of movement. The population histogram of motor units of a muscle was proportional to the average of rectified multiunit EMG, and typically exhibited decrementing activity during the static hold. The effects of excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) on firing probability of motoneurons previously documented in intracellular studies are combined with the mean firing rates in the population histograms and the known amplitudes of CM-EPSPs and RM-EPSPs to infer the relative contributions of the supraspinal cells to tonic discharge of active motoneurons. This analysis suggests that for intermediate levels of force, the CM cells would increment motoneuron discharge by about 9 impulses/second (i.p.s.) and RM cells by about 2.4 i.p.s. The analysis also reveals differences in the population activity of CM and RM cells compared to their target motoneurons, which may be due to other input cells and to recruitment properties of motoneurons. PMID- 2517461 TI - Effects of calcium and EDTA on rat skin capillary permeability and on its response to histamine, serotonin and bradykinin. AB - Evans blue extravasation in rat skin was used to study the effects of Ca2+ and EDTA on vascular permeability and on its response to mediators of inflammation. Ca2+ induced a concentration-dependent decrease of vascular permeability. The opposite effect was seen with EDTA 0.2 mM or higher. Effects on vascular permeability of intradermically injected histamine 100 micrograms/ml, serotonin 5 micrograms/ml and bradykinin 5 micrograms/ml, were lower when Ca2+ 8 mM was injected in the same site, and higher when EDTA 2 mM was given. EDTA effects were inhibited by Ca2+. The results suggest that, in rat skin, Ca2+ decreases capillary permeability and its response to histamine, serotonin and bradykinin. PMID- 2517462 TI - Effect of total food deprivation on the proteoglycans of rat hyaline cartilage and bone. AB - Existing hypotheses suggest that the effect of food deprivation on bone occurs via alterations in the synthesis of the organic matrix. Thus, this work was carried out to characterize the modifications of the physico-chemical properties of the proteoglycans (PG) of rat hyaline cartilage and femur. Male Wistar rats were assigned at random to a control group which was fed a standard pellet diet or to an experimental group which was given water "ad libitum" and starved over the experimental period. On day 4 or 8 the animals were administered a dose of 35S, weighed and killed. PG and glycosaminoglycans (GAG) were isolated from femurs and xyphoid cartilages. Uptake of 35S, GAG distribution patterns, PG molecular weight, molecular size of the side chains and the PG density gradient were determined. The aforementioned parameters decreased significantly after 4 and 8 days of total starvation. The GAG distribution pattern only exhibited a reduction of the Chondroitin-4-Sulphate fraction. These changes could alter the binding properties of PG to other macromolecules such as collagen which plays an important role in the ossification process. PMID- 2517460 TI - [Primary plasmacytic lambda chain leukemia: report of a case]. AB - A rare case of primary plasma cell leukaemia is presented as a plasmacytic dyscrasia with high number of plasma cells in peripheral blood and bone marrow, few osteolytic lesions and with cardiac and renal failure. The morphology of leukaemic cells were variable ranging from lymphoplasmacytic to differentiated plasma cells. Bence-Jones protein Lambda Chain was found in urine and serum. The patient was treated with chemotherapy (M2 protocol) with survival of 33 months. PMID- 2517463 TI - Insulin mediators and the control of pyruvate dehydrogenase complex. PMID- 2517464 TI - Genetic defects in human pyruvate dehydrogenase. AB - The nature of PDC deficiency has been characterized at the levels of total and component catalytic activities as well as at the levels of component proteins and specific mRNAs. Defects in 14 cases were shown to involve the E1 component, and there was one case each of an apparent E2 and E3 deficiency. Defects involving the E1 component exhibit heterogeneous expression of E1 proteins and mRNAs, indicating that different types of mutations cause E1 deficiency. E1 deficiencies can occur either in the presence or absence of E1 proteins, representing catalytic mutations or mutations affecting the expression of E1 proteins, respectively. In every case where the content of E1 proteins is reduced, both the E1 alpha and the E1 beta peptides are simultaneously affected. This is likely to be due to rapid degradation of any E1 peptide that is not complexed into the alpha 2 beta 2 conformation. Among subjects with reduced levels of both E1 peptides, some had normal amounts of specific E1 alpha and E1 beta mRNAs. In these subjects, the primary mutations affect either translational or post translational processes leading to the formation of mature E1 proteins in the mitochondria. In contrast, two cases of simultaneous reduction of both E1 alpha and E1 beta proteins had decreases in the amounts of E1 alpha mRNA only. Mutations in these cases may impair the transcription, nuclear processing, or stability of E1 alpha mRNA. E1 deficiency may manifest in a variable manner. Further characterization of this phenomenon might provide insight into the discrepancy between the clinical severity of the defect and the residual level of PDC catalytic activity. Available information indicates that the E1 alpha gene is located on the X chromosome, but sex distribution of E1 alpha defects suggests that the mode of inheritance may not follow a simple X-linked pattern. The availability of specific PDC antibodies and cDNA clones, as well as the application of molecular biological techniques, should facilitate the characterization of the molecular basis of various PDC deficiencies. This information should provide better understanding of the function of PDC, pathophysiology of PDC deficiency, and mechanisms of inheritance and expression of these genes. PMID- 2517465 TI - The clinical and biochemical spectrum of human pyruvate dehydrogenase complex deficiency. PMID- 2517466 TI - Abnormalities of pyruvate dehydrogenase complex in brain disease. PMID- 2517467 TI - Down-regulation of pH-regulating transport systems in BC3H-1 cells. PMID- 2517468 TI - Animal models of human immunodeficiency virus infection. Public Health Service Animal Models Committee. AB - The search for a model of HIV infection continues. While much of the initial work focussed on animal models of AIDS, more recent efforts have sought animal models of HIV infection in which one or more signs of AIDS may be reproduced. Most initial small animal modelling efforts were negative and many such efforts remain unpublished. In 1988, the Public Health Service (PHS) AIDS Animal Model Committee conducted a survey among PHS agencies to identify published and unpublished data on animal models of HIV. To date, the chimpanzee is the only animal to be reliably infected with HIV albeit without development of signs and symptoms normally associated with human AIDS. One recent study has shown the gibbon to be similarly susceptible to infection with HIV. Mice carrying a chimera of elements of the human immune system have been shown to support the growth of HIV and F1 progeny of transgenic mice containing intact copies of HIV proviral DNA, have developed a disease that resembles some aspects of human AIDS. Rabbits, baboons and rhesus monkeys have also been shown to be infected under certain conditions and/or with selected strains of HIV but again without the development of AIDS symptomatology. This report briefly summarizes published and available unpublished data on these efforts to develop an animal model of HIV infection. PMID- 2517469 TI - Preliminary results concerning the presence of secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) in the serum of patients with IgA myeloma. AB - Using the immunosorbents realized by binding either antisecretory immunoglobulin A antibodies or antisecretory component ones to beads of cross-linked polyvinyl alcohol matrix, secretory immunoglobulin A, from the serum of patients with IgA myeloma was investigated. The related protein isolated with the same method from colostrum was comparatively studied. Studies were done by polyacrylamyde gel electrophoresis (PAGE) and SDS-PAGE, as well as by immunochemical methods. The two proteins obtained presented the same characteristics: a single fraction in PAGE and four fractions in SDS-PAGE. The determinations were carried out by immunoelectrophoresis and double diffusion using monospecific antisera proved the identity of the isolated proteins with secretory IgA. PMID- 2517470 TI - [Skull growth in children]. AB - The authors review papers and researches about skull growth in newborns and infants: they analysed and correlated anthropometric data with maternal biological and social factors. PMID- 2517471 TI - S-aryl (tetramethyl) isothiouronium salts as possible antimicrobial agents, IV. AB - The 1-octanol/water partition coefficients of a series of antimicrobial S aryl(tetramethyl)isothiouronium salts, were determined. The concentration of the solute in the two phases was measured by means of HPLC. The values of the hydrophobic parameters thus obtained were correlated to the corresponding capacity factors (log Kw) and compared with those expected on the basis of additive-constitutive principles. The deviations were interpreted quantitatively on the basis of electronic interactions of the substituents in the benzene ring. Equations correlating structural features and antimicrobial activity of some studied compounds by means of molecular parameters were formulated. PMID- 2517472 TI - In vivo effect of eflornithine (DFMO) and some related compounds on Leishmania infantum preliminary communication. AB - An in vivo method was used to test the effect of eflornithine (DFMO) and five related compounds on Leishmania infantum amastigotes. Treatment with 100 mg/kg sc for 5 days of Leishmania infected Balb/c mice yielded a parasite inhibition ranging from 56% (compound 2, "reverse arginine") to 85% (eflornithine), these values being lower than that obtained with the reference compound Glucantime (93%). In long-term treatment (40 days) the two selected compounds, eflornithine and 3 ("reverse homoarginine"), failed to cure the animals. However, in dose response experiments these drugs showed to be effective at very low doses when compared with Glucantime, thus suggesting that they might be of potential value in the chemotherapy of leishmaniases. PMID- 2517473 TI - Mitochondrial and nuclear DNA complementation in the respiratory chain function and defects. AB - The 16569 base pairs of the mitochondrial DNA encode with a specific genetic code 13 proteins involved in the respiratory chain complex formation. Nuclear gene products also contribute to the formation of these complexes. In the first point, the organization and expression of the mtDNA are described with the main characteristics of the enzymatic complexes as well as nuclear gene expression. New information concerned with mitochondrial DNA deletions and mutations are described particularly with respect to Kearns-Sayre Syndrome. PMID- 2517474 TI - Roles of O-acetyl-L-homoserine sulfhydrylases in micro-organisms. AB - O-Acetyl-L-homoserine sulfhydrylase (EC 4.2.99.10) is essential for certain micro organisms, functioning as a homocysteine synthase in the pathway of methionine synthesis. It participates in an alternative pathway of L-homocysteine synthesis for those microbes in which homocysteine is synthesized mainly via cystathionine. The protein can also catalyze the de novo synthesis of L-cysteine and O-alkyl-L homoserine in some microorganisms. The enzyme possibly recycles the methylthio group of methionine. PMID- 2517475 TI - Studies on the CoQH2-cytochrome c reductase segment of the respiratory chain of yeast mitochondria, using mutants of the cytochrome b split gene. AB - Our work relating to the role of cytochrome b in the CoQH2-cytochrome c reductase segment of the respiratory chain of S. cerevisiae mitochondria is reviewed here and new results are reported. The results concerning the structure-function relationship of cytochrome b in this complex, analyzed within the framework of the eight transmembrane alpha helice cytochrome b folding model, agree with the following features of the proton motive Q cycle (or SQ cycle): i) the antimycin A and myxothiazol binding domains are located on opposite sides of the inner mitochondrial membrane; and ii) the antimycin A binding domain is associated with the b562 domain, the myxothiazol domain with the b565 domain. These results were obtained from structural data derived from amino-acid sequence studies on mit- mutants and from biochemical studies of these mutants. However, functional studies are reported here that are not in agreement with the following features of the above models: i) the serial arrangement of the two hemes of cytochrome b and ii) the isolation of cytochrome b from redox changes with the couple fumarate/succinate in the presence of antimycin A and myxothiazol. PMID- 2517476 TI - The protein kinases tightly bound to DNA are present in normal tissues and in regenerating liver, but strongly decreased in hepatomas. AB - We have previously described in rat liver two protein kinases tightly bound to DNA, one is serine-specific, the other arginine-specific. In this work we show that both enzymes are present in various rat tissues and in liver from various species. Both kinase specific activities are strongly decreased in methyl-DBA induced hepatomas and in HTC cells but not in regenerating liver after hepatectomy. This decrease is then not related to cell proliferation. PMID- 2517478 TI - One-step affinity purification of amidase from mutant strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. AB - Amidases (acylamide amidohydrolase EC 3.5.1.4) from mutant strains (i.e., B6, AI3, AIU1N, OUCH 4 and L10) of Pseudomonas aeruginosa were purified in one-step by ligand affinity chromatography using Epoxy-activated Sepharose 4B-acetamide. The yields of the purified enzymes were about 90% for all mutant strains with purification factors of about 10 and were apparently homogeneous when analysed by SDS-PAGE and native PAGE. The protein bands on native PAGE coincided with the stained band of enzyme activity for all amidase preparations. Affinity columns had a maximum binding capacity of 0.5 mg amidase protein/ml of sedimented gel and could be regenerated and reused several times without any loss of binding capacity and resolution. Affinity gels containing either semicarbazide or urea were also found useful for the isolation of amidase. The differences in substrate specificity of these amidases reported previously were also observed in the elution behaviour of these enzymes from the affinity columns. PMID- 2517477 TI - Comparative study on human milk and serum biotinidase. AB - Biotinidase was purified from human breast milk (4,000-fold), and was compared with human serum biotinidase (enriched 30,000-fold). The molecular weight of milk enzyme was 68,000 Da as determined by SDS-PAGE. It was definitely smaller than that of serum biotinidase (Mr = 76,000). Isoelectric point of milk biotinidase was 4.6, whereas that of serum biotinidase was 4.3. Sialic acid content in milk biotinidase was less than that found in serum enzyme. N-Acetyl-galactosamine was present in milk enzyme, whereas it was absent in serum enzyme. Milk biotinidase is O-glycosylated, whereas serum biotinidase is N-glycosylated. These differences in glycosylation suggest the existence of different types of excretion mechanisms between milk and serum biotinidase. Both biotinidases were found to be thiol-type enzyme, however, the extent of activation of the enzyme by 2-mercaptoethanol was 13-fold in milk, whilst the serum enzyme was activated only 1.5-fold. Km for biotinyl-4-amino-benzoate was 22 microM in milk enzyme and 50 microM in serum enzyme. Competitive inhibition by biotin (Ki) of milk enzyme was 43 microM and 1.3 mM for serum enzyme. These results suggest the structural differences at or near the active site of the each enzyme. PMID- 2517479 TI - C. botulinum neurotoxin types A and E: isolated light chain breaks down into two fragments. Comparison of their amino acid sequences with tetanus neurotoxin. AB - The flaccid paralysis in the neuromuscular disease botulism appears to depend on the coordinated roles of the approximately 50 kDa light and approximately 100 kDa heavy chain subunits of the approximately 150 kDa neurotoxic protein produced by Clostridium botulinum (J. Biol. Chem. (1987) 262, 2660 and Eur. J. Biochem. (1988) 177, 683). We observed that the light chain after separation from its conjugate heavy chain, in the presence of dithiothreitol and 2 M urea, begins to split into approximately 28 and approximately 18 kDa fragments. The other subunit the approximately 100 kDa heavy chain following its isolation-and the parent approximately 150 kDa dichain neurotoxin do not break down under comparable conditions. This cleavage was examined in the neurotoxin serotypes A and E. The cleavage does not appear to be due to a protease. Partial amino acid sequences established that: i) the approximately 28-kDa and approximately 18-kDa fragments comprise the N- and C-terminal regions of the light chain, respectively; ii) the light chain of the neurotoxin serotypes A and E break down at precise peptide bonds; iii) the peptide bonds cleaved in serotypes A and E are five residues apart; and iv) the portions of the approximately 18 kDa fragments of serotype A and E neurotoxin sequenced so far are highly homologous to the corresponding region of tetanus neurotoxin produced by Clostridium tetani. The partial N terminal sequence of the approximately 28 kDa fragment matches with the N terminal sequence of the intact L chain. The 47 residues of the approximately 18 kDa fragment of type A sequenced from its N-terminal are: Y.E.M.S.G.L.E.V.S.F.E.E.L.R.T.F.G.G.H.D.A.K.F.I.D.S.L.Q.E.N.E.F.R.L.Y.Y .Y. N.K.F.K. D.I.A.S.T.L.-. These align with those of tetanus neurotoxin beginning at its residue #259 (Tyr); the 18 underlined residues of the above 47 residues (i.e. 38%) are identical in positions between the two proteins. The 41 residues sequenced from the approximately 18 kDa fragment of type E botulinum neurotoxin are: -K.G.I.N.I.E.E.F.L. T.F.G.N.N.D.L.N.I.I.T.V.A.Q.Y.N.D.I.Y.T.N.L.L.N.D.Y.R. K.I.A.X.K. L.-.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2517480 TI - Identification of proteins crosslinked to RNA in 40S ribosomal subunits of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. AB - RNA-protein crosslinks were introduced into the 40S ribosomal subunits from Saccharomyces cerevisiae by mild UV treatment. Proteins crosslinked to the 18S rRNA molecule were separated from free proteins by repeated extraction of the treated subunits and centrifugation in glycerol gradients. After digestion with RNase to remove the RNA molecules, proteins were radio-labeled with 125I and identified by electrophoresis on two-dimensional polyacrylamide gels with carrier total 40S ribosomal proteins and autoradiography. Proteins S2, S7, S13, S14, S17/22/27, and S18 were linked to the 18S rRNA. A shorter period of irradiation resulted in crosslinking of S2 and S17/22/27 only. Several of these proteins were previously demonstrated to be present in ribosomal core particles or early assembled proteins. PMID- 2517481 TI - Semiconservative and unscheduled DNA synthesis on mammalian cells and its modification by glyoxylic compounds. AB - The interaction of glyoxal and four other glyoxylic compounds with semiconservative DNA synthesis and with unscheduled DNA synthesis induced by 25-G X-rays on TC-SV40 hamster cells has been studied. Both syntheses were evaluated by measuring the incorporation of [3H-methyl]-thymidine into the newly synthetized DNA. The unscheduled DNA synthesis amounts to 4% of semiconservative synthesis. The modification of both syntheses by the glyoxylic compounds was tested using the products at non-toxic concentrations for the cells. All the glyoxals inhibited semiconservative DNA synthesis and potentiated unscheduled DNA synthesis at rather similar levels. These effects have been compared with the radiosensitizing activity of these glyoxals in the same TC-SV40 cells and no relationship could be established. PMID- 2517482 TI - The histidines reacting with ethoxyformic anhydride in porcine pancreatic lipase: their relationships with enzyme activity. AB - The activities of porcine pancreatic lipase (449 amino acid residues) toward two different substrates, p-nitrophenylacetate and tributyrylglycerol, and their dependence on histidine ethoxyformylation were studied. In parallel, the ethoxyformylation of the lipase fragment constituting the C-terminal sequence of lipase (residues 336 to 449) was also investigated. This fragment was found to have retained the ability of lipase to catalyse p-nitrophenylacetate hydrolysis. The first histidine to react either in lipase or in the lipase fragment was His 354. The activities of the two compounds toward p-nitrophenyl-acetate were lost but that of the enzyme toward tributyrylglycerol was almost entirely retained. When a larger excess of ethoxyformic anhydride was used for the lipase reaction, 2.8 histidine residues were ethoxyformylated and characterised as His-354, His 156 and His-75, which resulted in an 85% inhibition of the tributyrylglycerol hydrolysis by the enzyme. Hydroxylamine treatment reactivated most of the lipase and lipase fragment. This is the first demonstration that the two lipase activities are not associated with the same active site. The loss of activity toward triacylglycerol hydrolysis suggests that His-156 and/or His-75 belong(s) to the active site or that a conformational change resulting from the ethoxyformylation renders the lipase inactive. PMID- 2517483 TI - The maximum rate of gene expression is dependent on the downstream context of unfavourable codons. AB - Presented here is an experimental demonstration of our theoretical predictions on the role of the downstream context of unfavourable codons in a gene on its expression level. Six non clustered AGG codons were inserted in the chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (cat) gene of E. coli and the expression of this modified gene (cat4) was compared with that of a cat gene in which four clustered AGG codons were inserted (cat2 gene). As predicted, the rate of production of the corresponding CAT4 and CAT2 proteins is equal as long as the rate of transcription of the gene does not exceed a given limit. When this limit is exceeded, production of CAT4 continues to increase, whereas CAT2 production decreases dramatically. Various consequences and possible applications of this downstream context effect are discussed. PMID- 2517484 TI - [The effect of temperature and Ca2+ on the interaction of high-density lipoproteins with epithelial cells in the human small intestine]. AB - The effect of temperature and Ca2+ ions on the interaction of high-density lipoprotein (HDL3) with human enterocytes was studied. It was shown that Kd measured at 4 degrees C is similar to that at 37 degrees C. Maximal number of binding sites at 37 degrees C is 15-fold times higher than that at 4 degrees C. EDTA (10 mM) and CaCl2 (0.5-5 mM) did not affect binding and uptake of HDL3 by human enterocytes. The obtained results indicate that HDL3-binding with these cells depends on temperature and does not depend on Ca2+ ions. PMID- 2517485 TI - [The activation of the immunosorptive properties of blood during its UV irradiation at therapeutic doses]. AB - UV irradiation of donor rhesus-positive blood in apparatus, applied in Soviet hospitals for autotransfusion of UV-irradiated blood produces a 2-fold increase of the blood capacity to bind antirhesus antibodies in blood or serum from sensibilized women. The above data can be used for increase in therapeutic effect of blood exchange transfusion in children with rhesus-conflict hemolytic disease. PMID- 2517486 TI - [The direct and indirect antiaggregation action of sodium hypochlorite on thrombocyte-enriched blood plasma]. AB - Sodium hypochlorite produces an indirect anti-aggregation action on platelets in platelet-rich plasma. This effect seems to be the result of the reversible reaction between platelets and products of plasma modification. High rate constants are characteristic of hypochlorite interaction with SH and SS groups of glutathione, as well as bilirubin. PMID- 2517488 TI - Evaluation of diagnosis-related groups in the National Health Service. AB - Evaluation of the use of diagnosis-related groups (DRGs) has revealed a number of technical problems in coding of diagnoses and operative procedures, as well as unresolved issues in the clinical acceptability of existing groupings. An investigation of the statistical homogeneity of DRGs, in terms of duration of patient stay, is described. Consideration of data relating to some 990,000 episodes of in-patient care in three English Regions discloses wide variations in statistical homogeneity, both between DRGs and in relation to individual clinical specialties. The greatest homogeneity is found in ENT surgery and gynaecology; and the least in general medicine and orthopaedic surgery. The need for improved data collection and coding procedures is discussed, together with the advisability of sensitivity in the interpretation of DRGs, as well as the need for a co-ordinated approach to their refinement for application in any wider introduction in the NHS. PMID- 2517489 TI - Economic analysis in the evaluation of health promotion. AB - The problems of using cost-effectiveness analysis in health promotion are set out in order to argue against the simplistic application of QALY-type analysis between the preventive and curative sectors. The difficulties of conceptualizing and measuring 'effectiveness', and the obstacle of achieving predictive validity in cost-effectiveness analysis are discussed. PMID- 2517487 TI - [The synergistic action of lipopolysaccharide and muramyl dipeptide in the immunotherapy of DBA/2 mice with mastocytoma P815]. AB - The intratumoral administration of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and muramyl dipeptide (MDP) in combination, but not separately, resulted in necrosis and rejection of subcutaneous P815 mastocytoma nodules in DBA/2 mice with 30 to 40% survival. Previous sensibilization of animals by LPS + MDP, treatment by indomethacin, cyclophosphamide or syngeneic lymphocytes did not augment the immunotherapeutic action of LPS + MDP combination. Reinoculation of P815 cells into cured DBA/2 mice 8 months after the disappearance of the primary tumor led to rejection of new nodules with 50% survival rate. In LPS + MDP immunotherapy of these tumors two stages may be distinguished by a thrombo-necrotic stage and that of development of immunity. PMID- 2517490 TI - A report of the investigation and control measures instituted after the isolation of toxin-producing Corynebacterium diphtheriae mitis from a child in Leeds. AB - This report describes the control measures instituted and further investigations undertaken after the isolation of toxin-producing Corynebacterium diphtheriae from a throat swab taken routinely from a nine-year-old boy, recently returned from Pakistan, who had been admitted to hospital in Leeds with hepatitis A infection. Four of his siblings were subsequently shown to have identical Corynebacterium diphtheriae on throat swabbing, except that in one child the organism did not produce toxin. All the children were asymptomatic carriers. PMID- 2517491 TI - [Genetic control of morphogenesis of Pseudomonas aeruginosa transposable phage D3112]. AB - The influence of ts mutations in the early and late genes of transposable phage D3112 on phage morphogenesis was studied. The mutations in the early genes A, B and C were shown to suppress morphogenesis of D3112. Six genes (D, E, F, G, H and I), located from 14 to 29 kbp of the phage physical map, control morphogenesis of phage head. Five genes (J, K, L, M and N), clustered in the 29-36 kbp region of the map, control morphogenesis of tail. The similarity of genetic organization of the Escherichia coli transposable phage Mu and the Pseudomonas aeruginosa phage D3112 is discussed. PMID- 2517492 TI - [Interference of inducible repair processes in Escherichia coli]. AB - Radiation and the majority of chemical mutagens produce lesions in the DNA of cells which provoke the induction--as a reverse response--of some inducible repair processes. One of them is the adaptive response--highly specific in the repair of damages, induced by alkylating agents. This repair pathway decreases the toxic and mutagenic effects of many alkylating agents and can be induced in Escherichia coli cells exposed to sublethal concentrations of the same agents. By contrast, the SOS repair pathway in E. coli is non-specific and transient phenomenon which leads, among other things, to bacterial mutagenesis. It is controlled by the regulatory RecA protein which in its activated form promotes the cleavage of LexA repressor, allowing for the increased transcription of about 17 repressed genes--SOS regulon. The latter is not associated with the adaptive response. Nevertheless, there are experimental data indicating that the adaptive response is able to reduce some functions of the SOS repair activity--W reactivation, W-mutagenesis and lambda phage induction. A relatively new bacterial short-term assay for genotoxicity, the SOS chromotest with E. coli PQ37 as an indicator organism, makes it possible to measure SOS induction indirectly, on the basis of a simple colorimetric assay. In the present study, the SOS chromotest in a completely automated system "Bioscreen C" was used to study interference between the adaptive and SOS responses in E. coli. Our data indicate that there is an inhibitory effect of the adaptive response on the SOS induction, as well as the negative interference between two successive SOS responses, at a transcriptional level of the SOS induction. PMID- 2517493 TI - Estrogen feedback in normal and sulpiride-induced hyperprolactinemic postmenopausal women. AB - Feedback effect of estrogen on gonadotropin secretion was studied in normal and sulpiride-induced hyperprolactinemic postmenopausal women. Twelve normoprolactinemic postmenopausal women were administered 40 micrograms/day of ethinyl estradiol (EE2) orally throughout the study. On the 4th week of the study, daily doses of 200 micrograms EE2 were also given to each subject for 4 days. Twelve postmenopausal women were given sulpiride orally in a daily dose of 150 mg throughout the study. Serum levels of prolactin were raised in all 12 subjects given sulpiride. In the 12 sulpiride-induced hyperprolactinemic postmenopausal women, EE2 was given in the same manner as in normal postmenopausal women. The negative feedback effect of estrogen with low doses of EE2 (40 micrograms/day for 4 weeks) and the positive feedback effect of estrogen after the subsequent administration of EE2 (200 micrograms/day for 4 days) were demonstrated in both normoprolactinemic and hyperprolactinemic groups. The result of the present study suggests that sulpiride-induced hyperprolactinemia does not affect the negative and positive feedback effect of estrogen in postmenopausal women. PMID- 2517494 TI - Stress reactions in response to the procedure of LHRH tests as measured by salivary and serum cortisol and psychological variables. AB - Serum and salivary cortisol release and mood ratings were measured in response to the procedure of LHRH tests in 12 medical students professionally familiarized with venipunctures (familiarized subgroup) and in 5 non-medical students (unfamiliarized subgroup). There were significant differences in cortisol and mood ratings between both groups. Only the unfamiliarized subgroup showed significant increases of cortisol and higher values for tension and anxiety. Relations between cortisol, tension and anxiety confirm an effect of experimental stress on the secretion of cortisol during the procedure of LHRH tests. Novelty and subjective mood states appear to have predictive values with regard to stress induced endocrine reactions. PMID- 2517495 TI - The anti-oedematous efficacy of oxindanac equals that of paracetamol in acute postoperative inflammation; are weak cyclooxygenase inhibitors more effective than strong inhibitors? AB - In a double-blind crossover study, the clinical anti-oedematous efficacy was compared of a weak cyclooxygenase inhibitor oxindanac 200 mg thrice daily in a controlled clinical trial procedure with paracetamol 1 g thrice daily as a positive control involving objective measurement of acute soft tissue oedema. Paracetamol is a weak cyclooxygenase inhibitor which reduces acute postoperative tissue oedema by 30% compared to a placebo. There was no significant (p = 0.81) difference between oxindanac and paracetamol with respect to anti-oedematous activity. The present finding is discussed in view of previous results obtained in controlled trials with several other anti-inflammatory drugs, using similar objective methodology as the present one. It is proposed that non-steroidal anti inflammatory drugs acting solely by strong inhibition of cyclooxygenase need not be optimal anti-oedematous drugs. Reasons for this proposal are discussed. PMID- 2517496 TI - Molecular distribution of gold(I) in human blood plasma after treatment with the antiarthritic disodium aurothiomalate. AB - On-line separation and detection of both high- and low-molecular-weight gold species in human blood plasma treated with disodium aurothiomalate were achieved by a technique incorporating a combination of fast protein liquid chromatography with continuous monitoring of absorbance at 254 nm and eluant gold concentration by flame atomic absorption spectroscopy. The fate of gold (40 microM disodium aurothiomalate) in human blood plasma was monitored over a period of 24 h. Results obtained indicated that more than 50% of the gold is associated with a peak identified as albumin after a 5 min incubation period at 37 degrees C, and by 30 min more than 90% is found to be associated with albumin. This novel analytical combination enables the rapid, selective and sensitive determination of gold(I) and its biotransformation products (both protein--and non-protein bound) in biological fluids. PMID- 2517497 TI - Pharmacokinetics of salicylic acid following administration of aspirin tablets and three different forms of soluble aspirin in normal subjects. AB - The pharmacokinetic profile of an innovative formulation of soluble aspirin (l ornithine acetylsalicylate, ldB 1003) was compared with that of conventional tablets and two other soluble dosage forms (d, l-lysine acetylsalicylate and a buffered effervescent formulation of acetylsalicylic acid) after administration of single oral doses in six normal volunteers. All soluble forms showed a rapid absorption profile, peak plasma salicylic acid levels being attained after about 30 min on average and without statistically significant differences among the solutions tested. As compared to the soluble formulations, acetylsalicylic acid given as tablets resulted in slower absorption, with peak plasma salicylic acid levels being reached more than 1 h after dosing. Despite these differences in time course of plasma level profiles, the extent of absorption was similar for all formulations. Apart from the potential advantages in terms of improved gastric tolerability, the increased rate of absorption of aspirin solutions is therapeutically useful whenever a rapid onset of action is required. In this respect, the kinetic pattern of the innovative formulation compares favourably with that of other available soluble dosage forms. PMID- 2517498 TI - Defibrotide, a stimulator of prostacyclin (PGI2) production, prevents the effects of ischaemic damage. AB - Defibrotide, a polydeoxyribonucleotide obtained from mammalian lungs, has been demonstrated to exert profibrinolytic and antithrombotic activity through stimulation of vascular prostacyclin (PGI2) production. We studied the effect of defibrotide administration in protecting liver and heart from ischaemic and postischaemic reperfusion damage. Defibrotide was administered as an i.v. bolus (30 mg/kg) at the beginning of liver ischaemia and at the same dose continuously during 60 min of postischaemic reperfusion. ATP levels were significantly improved in livers of defibrotide-treated rats as compared to those obtained in livers of rats treated with vehicle of the drug. Intrahepatic cytoplasmic and mitochondrial NAD+/NADH ratios were higher in defibrotide-treated than in vehicle treated animals. The hearts, isolated from rats according to the transplantation procedure, were subjected to different times of warm + cold ischaemia. During ischaemia, the hearts were perfused continuously with 60 mg/kg of defibrotide or vehicle of the drug. The loss of creatine phosphokinase and lactate dehydrogenase activities due to an increased ischaemia time was limited in defibrotide-perfused hearts. Intracardiac ATP and ADP levels were significantly higher in defibrotide treated organs than in controls. Our results demonstrate the efficacy of defibrotide in protecting liver and heart from ischaemia. PMID- 2517499 TI - Selecting technologies for assessment. AB - This article describes criteria used by several organizations to select technologies for assessment and the factors that are common to most lists of criteria. It presents a framework or model (called TAPSS) that relates the most important factors. The model can be used to estimate the expected impact of an assessment on health and economic outcomes for a population. It incorporates information on such factors as the health and economic importance of the disease addressed by the technology, the expected impact of the technology on health and economic outcomes, variations in the technology's current use, and factors affecting the production and reception of an assessment. The article includes an example of an application of the method--screening for maple syrup urine disease. PMID- 2517500 TI - Genetic diagnosis. Implications for medical practice. AB - Genetic diagnostic techniques increasingly permit the detection of predisposition to illness long before the onset of the disease process itself. Medicine is on the verge of becoming a predictive science as well as a diagnostic and therapeutic one. Genetic diagnosis could have profound effects on many aspects of our health care system, including the prestige and effectiveness of preventive medicine, the competitive behavior of health care organizations and insurance companies, access to private health insurance, the ability of primary care physicians to serve as gatekeepers, and other matters. This article examines the range of potential effects of the new genetic diagnostics on the organization and financing of health care. For purposes of illustration the authors examine in detail the possible consequences of genetic tests for predisposition to two diseases: Reye's Syndrome and lung cancer in smokers. PMID- 2517502 TI - Ossification of a perineal haematoma consequent to dislocation of the symphysis pubis. AB - The authors discuss an unusual complication of dislocation of the symphysis pubis in a female aged 11 years, consisting of an ossified perineal haematoma on one side of the vagina and in the corresponding labrum minore. The most probable pathogenetic hypothesis is that fragments of the periosteum of the pubis remained included in the haematoma, and this was followed by gravitation towards the more dependent tissues. PMID- 2517501 TI - Biological osteosynthesis in osteochondral lesions of the talus. AB - Osteochondral lesions of the dome of the talus whether medial or lateral are rare. Surgical treatment is required when there is a loose body, or when the lesion is symptomatic and resistant to nonsurgical treatment. Usually, the degenerated fragment is removed, followed by curettage and multiple perforations of the subchondral bed, but different methods may be used to reinsert the osteocartilaginous fragment. Having been satisfied with our first studies conducted both on animals and man, we began to reinsert the osteochondral fragment by using resorbable means of synthesis. The purpose of this study is to report our experiences with 3 such cases at a minimum follow-up of one year. PMID- 2517503 TI - General-purpose infusion pumps. AB - In this issue, we are publishing our fourth evaluation of general-purpose infusion pumps. Although the basic technology is stable, we evaluated the performance of the new models on the market because many offer new features and hospitals rely on these devices for an increasing variety of IV therapies. The many consultation calls we receive from member hospitals are about the benefits and deficiencies of a given pump, as well as its reliability and ease of servicing. We evaluated 14 general-purpose infusion pumps from 9 manufacturers. The pumps differed significantly in performance, features, and cost. Areas of concern are infusion sets that allow free flow if not manually clamped on removal and detection of upstream occlusions. Most of the units are rated Conditionally Acceptable on the condition that users accept the responsibility of preventing free flow. PMID- 2517504 TI - Rehabilitation of below-knee amputees: factors influencing outcome and costs in three programmes. AB - The components of three different rehabilitation programmes were analysed to determine the factors that influence functional outcomes and prosthetic costs. Age and additional health problems showed little relationship to inpatient activity level while the physical health status score had a significant relationship. The level of expectation in the rehabilitation programmes for walking independently with canes or without aids at discharge was shown to have a strong influence on the activity level attained and the length of rehabilitation stay. The style of socket did not appear to affect fitting success but had some effect on the efficiency of the prosthetic fitting process and the length of stay. PMID- 2517505 TI - Effects of sodium valproate and oxygen on the craniofacial skeletal pattern in the CD-1 mouse embryo. AB - Growth retardation is a consistent finding in animal studies on the effect of sodium valproate (NaVP) in the embryo. Apart from fetal weight, the state of ossification in the embryo may be regarded as an indication of growth. The present study was to determine what effect sodium valproate at human therapeutic drug plasma levels had on the craniofacial skeletal pattern in the CD-1 mouse embryo relative to oxygen conditions, drug treatment or the interaction of the two. Two NaVP-filled Alzet osmotic minipumps were implanted subcutaneously on day 5 of gestation for continuous delivery of a total daily dosage of 850 mg/kg for 7 days. During this same time period the dams were also exposed to either normoxic (21% oxygen), hyperoxic (50% oxygen), or hypoxic (12% oxygen) controlled environments. Dams were removed from the oxygen chambers on day 12 and killed on day 18 of gestation. The fetuses were then processed for skeletal evaluation of the craniofacial region. Ossification centers were present in all but six of the skeletal elements studied. The primary ossification delay was in the tympanic bony labyrinth. In addition, there was a decrease in maxillary and mandibular length and cranial base measurements. The greatest toxic effect on the fetus for all skeletal components studied was in the NaVP/hypoxia treated group. This finding suggests that fetal skeletal maturation may be affected by a combination of intrauterine as well as external factors. PMID- 2517506 TI - The effect of endometriomas on in vitro fertilization outcome. AB - To determine the effect of ovarian endometriomas on in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcome, two groups of patients were studied. Group I consisted of seven patients with ovarian endometriomas and severe pelvic adhesions treated for a total of 12 cycles. Group II patients consisted of eight patients with hydrosalpinges and comparable pelvic adhesions treated for a total of 27 cycles. There were no differences in the number of days required for stimulation or in the serum estradiol levels attained between the two groups. Group I patients were noted to have significantly fewer preovulatory follicles (1.42 vs 3.33, P less than 0.005), cycles with fertilization (28 vs 84%, P less than 0.005), and embryos transferred (0.78 vs 2.56, P = 0.01) than Group II patients. Three pregnancies occurred in Group II, while there were no conceptions among Group I patients. This study suggests that the presence of an ovarian endometrioma(s) has an adverse effect on IVF outcome and suggests that patients with ovarian endometriomas should have them removed prior to undergoing IVF. PMID- 2517508 TI - Recurrent fetal loss with circulating lupus anticoagulant: report of 2 cases. AB - Lupus anticoagulant (LAC), an autoantibody, in maternal circulation is responsible for a high incidence of fetal loss. We record 2 cases of recurrent fetal loss in association with LAC. The presence of LAC was diagnosed by prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), but was not correctable by dilution with normal plasma. During their subsequent pregnancies, these two women were treated with prednisolone and a low dose of aspirin (100 mg/day). Normal values of aPTT were achieved in both cases after treatment. Preeclampsia developed in one of the women, and a live premature infant was delivered by cesarean section. However, a successful term pregnancy was achieved in the other case. Corticosteroid and low-dose aspirin appear to improve fetal outcome in cases with LAC. PMID- 2517507 TI - Pituitary down-regulation using leuprolide for the intensive ovulation management of poor prognosis patients having in vitro fertilization (IVF)-related treatments. AB - A review of 118 treatment cycles in 115 women under prolonged GnRH analogue (GnRHa; leuprolide) treatment is presented. Patients were selected for treatment primarily on the grounds of poor previous response to stimulation (n = 40), advanced age (greater than 35 years; n = 29), previous premature luteinizing hormone (LH) surge (n = 30), polycystic ovarian disease (PCO; n = 12), and elevated androgens without evidence of PCO (n = 5). An overall pregnancy rate of 28.8% per treatment cycle was attained, compared with a pregnancy rate of 6.2% (6/97, of which none went to term) in the previous completed treatment cycle for the same patients. Ovarian response, as measured by oocytes recovered and maximum estradiol levels observed, was significantly improved in all groups and this was associated with a prolonged follicular phase, significantly more human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) stimulation and a relatively high incidence of ovarian hyperstimulation, particularly in pregnant patients. Of specific techniques in the GnRHa cycle, GIFT produced a pregnancy rate per treatment of 50% (10/20); IVF ET, 22% (8/36); PROST, 28% (13/46); and TEST, 19% (3/16). No cycles were abandoned, compared with a cancellation rate of 24% in previous cycles without GnRHa. Patients with PCO performed particularly well on GnRHa management, with a pregnancy rate per treatment of 58% (7/12). Pregnancy rates per treatment for the other groups were as follows: elevated age, 27% (9/33), high androgens, 40% (2/5); premature LH surges, 32% (9/28); and poor responders, 17.5% (7/40).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2517509 TI - Effect of methionine and threonine on the hypercholesterolemia induced by polychlorinated biphenyls in rats fed a nonprotein diet. AB - It was previously reported that the hypercholesterolemia induced by polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) was influenced by dietary protein quantity and quality. On the other hand, the supplementation of methionine and threonine to a nonprotein diet ameliorated the body weight loss and decreased the urinary urea excretion in rats. We examined the effect of methionine and threonine supplements on the hypercholesterolemia induced by PCB in rats fed a nonprotein diet. The administration of PCB increased plasma cholesterol concentration and the supplements of methionine and threonine to the nonprotein diet significantly accelerated the elevation of plasma level of cholesterol due to PCB feeding. Liver microsomal 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase activity in rats fed the nonprotein diet was also elevated by PCB administration and the supplementation of methionine and threonine caused further inducing effect. PMID- 2517510 TI - Modifications of circadian cortisol rhythm by cyclic and continuous total enteral nutrition. AB - To clarify the relationship between the pattern of diet intake and the circadian adrenocortical rhythm, we measured plasma cortisol levels at 4-h intervals over a 24-h period in 18 patients who were in the vegetative state and had been receiving total enteral nutrition (TEN) for 4 weeks. One group of 6 patients was given a liquid diet intraduodenally and continuously throughout a day (continuous TEN), whereas the two other groups received their daily enteral feeding during a restricted time of day, either in the daytime from 0800 h to 2000 h (diurnal TEN, 6 patients) or in the nighttime from 2000 h to 0800 h (nocturnal TEN, 6 patients). In patients with diurnal TEN, there was a clear cortisol rhythm with a peak of 0800 h, whose pattern was quite similar to the well-established cortisol rhythm in normal subjects. Patients with nocturnal TEN also showed a cortisol rhythm, but the peak appeared at 1600 h. There was no appreciable difference in the amplitude of the rhythm between the two groups. Patients with continuous TEN did not show any consistent circadian cortisol rhythms. Plasma levels of glucose, insulin, and free fatty acids also showed circadian fluctuations corresponding to the pattern of diet infusion in the groups with diurnal and nocturnal TEN, and remained almost constant throughout a day in the group with continuous TEN. We conclude from these results that the timing of diet intake may have a synchronizing effect on the circadian cortisol rhythm in man, as it does in laboratory animals. PMID- 2517511 TI - Changes in distribution of alpha-tocopherol and cholesterol in serum lipoproteins and tissues of rats by dietary PCB and dietary level of protein. AB - An experiment was conducted with growing rats to examine the influence of dietary addition of 0.1% polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) and dietary level of protein on the distributions of alpha-tocopherol and cholesterol in serum lipoproteins and tissues. Addition of PCB increased serum alpha-tocopherol. This was mainly due to the increment in the fractions of chylomicrons/very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) and high-density lipoproteins (HDL). This chemical also increased serum cholesterol and HDL cholesterol. The contents of alpha-tocopherol and cholesterol in HDL fraction were higher in the high protein groups as compared to the low protein groups, regardless of PCB intake. PCB intake increased the concentrations of alpha-tocopherol in tissues including spleen, lung, kidney, testis, muscle, adipose tissue, and brain. High protein diet increased the levels of alpha tocopherol in these tissues as compared to low protein diet. PCB intake also increased adrenal alpha-tocopherol, which was potentiated with low protein diet. The increment in liver alpha-tocopherol by PCB intake was observed only in the animals fed on low protein diet. PMID- 2517512 TI - [Orthoclone OKT3 (Muromonab CD3)--the indications for and manner of its use. Side effects and their prevention]. AB - In the last decade renal transplantation has gained considerable development. This is due to the achievements of clinical immunology and refinement of the surgical technique. In spite of all this, the achievements of renal transplantation are variable. This primarily is due to T-lymphocyte mediation, causing hazards for graft rejection. At present, numerous therapeutic agents, blocking the immune response of the organism, are applied. They are most effective when block selectively the activity of the immune cells responsible for immune response. The first synthesized preparation is Orthoclone OKT3 (Muronab CD3). It is a sterile solution of murine monoclonal antibody to T3 (CD3) antigen in human T-cells and functions as immunosuppressor. The first experimental data on its application have been published in 1975. In 1980 the preparation was applied for the first time for treatment of acute reaction for grafted kidney rejection. The authors set themselves the task to give a brief review of the nature of this preparation, mode of its storage, indications for use, side reactions and their prophylaxis. PMID- 2517513 TI - [Outer membranes of Francisella tularensis and their protein composition]. AB - Four strains of the species Francisella tularensis were used in the present work: a live vaccine strain 15/10 and three virulent strains (503, Schu, 543) from three different subspecies. The bacterial membranes were prepared by the 0.5% N laurylsarcosinate (Sarcosyl) treatment. These membranes were identified as the outer membranes by morphological, immunological and biochemical analyses. The outer membrane proteins contained up to 30-35 polypeptides with three dominant fractions having the 63, 48 and 41-43 kD molecular masses. Despite the significant similarity between the membranes protein profiles there were some quantitative and qualitative differences between the three variants of Francisella tularensis in polypeptides compositions and patterns. PMID- 2517514 TI - [Cryotransformation of Bacillus anthracis by the DNA of pUB110 plasmid]. AB - Possibility of cryotransformation of Bacillus anthracis cells by the DNA of pUB110 plasmid has been established. The parameters of cryotransformation process have been optimized permitting one to increase the efficiency of transformation up to 3.1 . 10(2) transformants per 1 mkg of transforming DNA. The factors affecting the efficiency of cryotransformation and its reproducibility have been studied including the treatment of recipient cells by glycine, the procedure of freeze-thawing, the composition of freezing medium. The recipient activity of Bacillus anthracis cells has been shown to depend on the set of their own plasmids. PMID- 2517515 TI - [Transduction and conjugation transfer of the pXO2 plasmid in Bacillus anthracis]. AB - The plasmid pXO2 determining the capsule synthesis has been shown to be transfered into the cells of different strains of Bacillus anthracis (STI-1, Sterne, KM33, KM35) by the transducing bacteriophage CP54ant and by mobilization by pAM beta 1 replicon with the frequencies, consequently, n.10(-8) and n.10(-7). The optimal parameters for the selection of clones having acquired the pXO2 plasmid have been defined. Mobilization for conjugational transfer has been demonstrated for the plasmid pXO1 coding for the production of Bacillus anthracis toxin. The dramatic increase of virulence for white mice has been registered for Bacillus anthracis strains having acquired the pXO2 plasmid replicon. PMID- 2517516 TI - [Epileptic attacks in subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE)]. AB - The analysis is reported of the frequency of epileptic seizures in 125 cases of subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE). Sporadic, periodic and recurrent seizures were isolated. Seizures developed in 42% of cases, mostly in the II phase of the disease. The most serious clinical problem are difficulties in the differentiation between involuntary movements of the type of complex moyclonia and atonic-myoclonic seizures. In the electrophysiological evaluation of use may be finding in EEG of triphasic sharp waves and spike-wave complexes, apart from generalized periodic discharges characteristic for SSPE. A greater possibility of differentiation between epileptic seizures and involuntary movements is opened by monitoring examination or 24-hour EEG recording. PMID- 2517518 TI - [Enteral feeding of hospitalized neurologic patients: analysis of complications and nutritional results]. AB - Patients with severe neurologic diseases submitted to enteral tube feeding were analyzed for four weeks. Initial and weekly assessment was done by laboratory and anthropometric data. Caloric requirements were calculated by the Harris-Benedict equation corrected for stress factors. The diet used provided 151 calories per gram of nitrogen, consisting of egg albumin, soy protein, maltodextrin, soy oil, medium-chain triglycerides, vitamin supplement, and mineral salts. Starting on the second week, there was a statistically significant correlation between caloric intake and caloric needs. In the same period, maintenance of lab parameters, worsening of the arm muscle circumference, and a trend to a positive nitrogen balance were observed. Diarrhea occurred in 14.5% of the patients. Enteral nutrition support for neurologic patients can be considered effective in the maintenance of the nutritional status. Careful daily monitoring is mandatory. PMID- 2517517 TI - [Diabetes mellitus and ketoacidosis in infants under 2 months of age]. PMID- 2517519 TI - [Skin to skin: the kangaroo technic in western Europe]. PMID- 2517520 TI - [Oral contraception and the vascular risk]. PMID- 2517521 TI - [Cardiomyopathy. An analysis of the problem]. PMID- 2517522 TI - [The support of cardiac function. Cardiomyopathy]. PMID- 2517523 TI - [The evaluation of a course of specialization in rehabilitation nursing]. PMID- 2517524 TI - [Industrial hygiene and safety in the education of nurses]. PMID- 2517525 TI - [A cost-benefit analysis of preventive fissure sealing]. PMID- 2517527 TI - The 1989 George Krejci memorial Award. PMID- 2517526 TI - Eicosanoids in myocardial ischemia. AB - Arachidonic acid (AA) accumulation in the ischemic myocardial tissue. Its release and subsequent metabolization into several classes of eicosanoids and lipid peroxides occurs in parallel with the development of myocardial ischemic injury and may be initiated by the loss of energy-rich phosphates. The profile of eicosanoid release during ischemia and reperfusion differs both quantitatively and qualitatively from that seen under non-ischemic conditions. This is at least partially due to the presence of stimulated inflammatory cells and platelets with a considerable activity of AA-metabolizing enzymes as well as endothelial injury. Thus, cardiac eicosanoid release in nonischemic conditions is primarily beneficial, resulting in more effective adaption of its function to the needs of the circulation. Eicosanoid release in acute ischemia is primarily deleterious and enhances inflammatory reactions and functional disturbances. PMID- 2517528 TI - Is the gene for von Recklinghausen neurofibromatosis somatically unstable? AB - The yellow-nonyellow pattern of the tortoiseshell guinea pig is presented as a model for the distribution of mutant and nonmutant neural-crest cells in von Recklinghausen neurofibromatosis (NF-1). The following hypotheses are offered to explain the developmental genetics of the variable phenotype. (1) The gene for NF 1 is somatically unstable; reverse somatic mutation occurs at a high frequency among the stem cells of clones of neural-crest cells in all affected individuals. (2) The normal reverted cells suppress the proliferation of residual mutant cells when both types are in close proximity. (3) At puberty, proliferation of normal cells decelerates, but proliferation in islands of residual mutant cells accelerates and results in the development of neurofibromas. (4) Plexiform neurofibromas occur when reverse mutation fails to occur or takes place relatively late within a large clonal population of mutant cells. PMID- 2517529 TI - Neurofibrosarcoma as a complication of von Recklinghausen neurofibromatosis. AB - Neurofibrosarcoma (NFS), which is rare in the general population, occurs with excessive frequency among patients with von Recklinghausen neurofibromatosis (NF 1). Among 693 patients with NF-1 enrolled in the Baylor NF Program, 24 patients (3.5%) developed NFS or one of its variant forms. Nine of the twenty-four patients developed NFS within 3-94 months after enrolling in the Program for other reasons. Focus on these 9 patients alone suggests that the relative risk for patients with NF-1 developing NFS is 10-10,000 times greater than for the general population. Also, in NFS cohorts, patients with NF-1 are almost twice as likely to be under 30 years of age. PMID- 2517530 TI - Schematic representation of NF-1 clinical features in Dutch. PMID- 2517531 TI - Schematic representation of NF-1 clinical features in German. PMID- 2517532 TI - Schematic representation of NF-1 clinical features in French. PMID- 2517533 TI - Recognition of neurofibromatosis before von Recklinghausen. PMID- 2517534 TI - The Neurofibromatosis Medical Care Program of the Department of Pediatrics of Parma University. PMID- 2517535 TI - Beta-migrating very low density lipoprotein attenuates endothelium-dependent relaxation in rabbit atherosclerotic aortas. AB - We studied the effects of beta-migrating very low density lipoprotein (beta-VLDL) on the vascular responses of isolated thoracic aortic preparations taken from normal and hypercholesterolemic rabbits. The endothelium-dependent relaxation induced by acetylcholine or adenosine triphosphate (ATP) was attenuated in the arteries from hypercholesterolemic rabbits that were fed a cholesterol-rich diet for 12 weeks. In these aortas, the lesional circumference of the atherosclerotic plaques (fatty streaks) was only 12.18 +/- 1.98%. The relaxation induced by the Ca2+ ionophore A23187 or nitroglycerin was not altered. Preincubation with beta VLDL significantly inhibited the relaxation due to acetylcholine, ATP, or A23187, especially in the aortas of hypercholesterolemic rabbits. However, beta-VLDL did not alter the response to nitroglycerin. Preincubation with high density lipoprotein had no significant effect on vessel relaxation. These results indicated that endothelium-dependent relaxation was already inhibited in the early stages of atherosclerosis, and that the atherogenic lipoprotein, beta-VLDL, further inhibited endothelium-dependent relaxation in atherosclerotic aortas. It may be that beta-VLDL also plays a role in determining the level of vascular tonus in atherosclerosis. PMID- 2517536 TI - Periapical reactions to calcium hydroxide-containing sealers and AH 26 in monkeys. AB - The long-term effect on periapical healing (8-14 months) of CRCS and Sealapex was compared with that of AH 26. Vital pulpectomy and root canal filling by the hybrid thermomechanical method were performed in teeth of 3 young monkeys. Ten roots with CRCS, 10 with Sealapex and 7 roots with AH 26 were examined after demineralization and routine histological processing. Hematoxylin and eosin and Brown & Brenn staining for micro-organisms were employed. Mild to severe inflammatory lesions were found at the apical foramina of the roots filled with AH 26 and CRCS. Most of the Sealapex specimens showed no inflammatory cells, except macrophages with sealer particles. A striking finding was a tendency towards apical obliteration with calcified tissue in roots filled with Sealapex, apparently following resorption of the sealer. Such a tendency was seldom observed with the other sealers. However, both AH 26 and Sealapex were irritating for a long time when pushed into bone. Despite the interesting results with Sealapex, additional research is needed before its use can be unconditionally recommended. This sealer has not yet been tested in infected cases and its ability to be resorbed, which is an advantage when it precedes replacement by calcified tissue, may become a disadvantage if it is not followed by apical obliteration. PMID- 2517537 TI - Loss of penicillin resistance in Paracoccus denitrificans induced by mitomycin C and acridine orange. AB - In an attempt to eliminate the penicillin resistance gene of P. dentrificans by curing agents, such as acridine orange (AO) and mitomycin C, it was observed that AO treatment caused temporary phenotypic curing where development of sensitivity was a function of concentration of both the curing agent and benzylpenicillin. However, curing with mitomycin produced sensitive clones at a frequency of 6 X 10(-3) and two permanently cured clones were isolated. Heavy metal resistance and resistance to other drugs, however, remain unchanged in the mitomycin-cured isolate. PMID- 2517538 TI - [Splash rash dermatitis. A case]. AB - The Authors report a case of a folliculitis developed in a woman who used a spa with hydrojet circulation. This dermatitis is due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which can colonizes the closed-cycle water systems. PMID- 2517539 TI - Time-dependent mode of immunization augments suppressed antibody responses in spleen cell cultures from mice experimentally infected with Trypanosoma cruzi. AB - Mice infected with Trypanosoma cruzi develop immunosuppressed responses to heterologous antigens. Experiments were performed using infected mice in the acute stage of infection to assess immunoregulatory activities during induction of direct plaque-forming cells (DPFC) to sheep erythrocytes (SRBC). After normal or infected mice were primed with SRBC, their spleen cells were restimulated 4 days later with SRBC in Mishell-Dutton cultures and found to mount hyperaugmented IgM anti-SRBC responses. It was also demonstrated that T-cells derived from normal mice primed in vivo 4 days previously with SRBC, and subsequently added to cultures of spleen cells from T. cruzi-infected mice, enhanced anti-SRBC DPFC responses in a dose-dependent fashion. These results show that functional help provided by T-cells activated during an in vivo priming and exposed to an in vitro challenge dose of antigen (SRBC) in a time-dependent mode can overcome the effect of immunosuppression in the spleen cell cultures from T. cruzi-infected mice. PMID- 2517540 TI - NE-58095: a diphosphonate which prevents bone erosion and preserves joint architecture in experimental arthritis. AB - The rat adjuvant arthritis model, like human rheumatoid arthritis, is characterized by fulminating intra- and periarticular inflammation and bone lysis. This model was used to determine the effectiveness of a potent antiresorptive diphosphonate (NE-58095: monosodium [2-(3-pyridinyl) ethylidene] hydroxy diphosphonate) prophylactically in Lewis rats and therapeutically in Sprague-Dawley rats. Modified Freund's adjuvant (MFA) was injected into the tail of Lewis and Sprague-Dawley rats. Prophylactic treatment in Lewis rats [oral (PO): 14.8 mg/kg/day); subcutaneous (SC): 0.148 mg/kg/day] was begun on the day of MFA injection. A significant reduction in paw swelling was seen as early as day 12 after MFA injection with both oral and parenteral treatment. NE-58095 produced a reduction in paw swelling of 28, 39 and 61% on days 12, 17 and 24 respectively, as compared to the saline-treated MFA control. Bone lysis in the saline-treated MFA group was 85% of total possible incidence for 6 joint regions in the hind paws and 4 regions in the front paws at day 24. This resorption was reduced by 70% in the rats administered NE-58095 PO and SC at 24 days after MFA. In the therapeutic experiments with Sprague-Dawley rats, treatment with NE-58095 (SC: 0.148 mg/kg/day) was begun on day 14 after MFA injection, at which time significant paw swelling (greater than 0.5cc) had occurred. On day 25 (12 days of treatment), paw swelling was reduced 70% by NE-58095 treatment as compared to the saline-treated MFA controls. Histologically, the architecture of the tibio-tarsal joints in the saline-treated MFA rats was affected, in contrast to the NE-58095 treated MFA rats where the architecture of the joint was preserved. This new potent diphosphonate is not an anti-inflammatory compound by any of the classical tests and is effective both orally and parenterally. The mechanism by which this diphosphonate protects joint integrity is not clear but appears to be related to its ability to block bone resorption and the consequent inhibition of the diffusion into the joint space of calcium, chemotactic factors and cytokinas released from bone matrix, resulting in a quenching of the arthritic process. PMID- 2517541 TI - [Serum and lacrimal proteins in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome]. AB - The concentrations of seven proteins [albumin (Alb), immunoglobulins (IgG, A, M), lactoferrin (Lf), lysozyme (Lzm) and beta 2-microglobulin (beta 2 m)] were measured in the tears and serum of 10 patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) and in 13 normal subjects. In the AIDS group, alteration of the blood-lacrimal barrier was revealed by the high Alb clearance. In this group also, the significantly high IgG, IgA, IgM and beta 2 m concentrations indicated a systemic and local immune response, with passive transfer of these proteins from serum to tears. However, Lf and Lzm concentrations were normal, showing that the secretory activity of the lacrimal gland remained unchanged. PMID- 2517542 TI - [Penetrating keratoplasty and corneal dystrophy in Scheie's syndrome]. AB - After remembered the symptoms of Scheie syndrome, we described an original observation of two brothers affected by this disease and reported the histologic and electronic studies. Then, we tried to define the reasons of keratoplasty failure. PMID- 2517544 TI - Characterization of monoclonal antibodies to human interferon-gamma and their application to enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). AB - The authors obtained two mouse monoclonal antibodies, G-208 and G-166, to recombinant human interferon-gamma (rH-IFN-gamma). Immunologically, they were classified as IgG1-K subclass. G-208 neutralized the antiviral activity of natural and recombinant human IFN-gamma, but did not bind to heat-denatured rH IFN-gamma. G-166 was able to bind to rH-IFN-gamma as well as to heat-denatured rH IFN-gamma, but it did not bind to natural human IFN-gamma (nH-IFN-gamma). A sandwich enzyme immunoassay specific to H-IFN-gamma molecule was developed using polyclonal rabbit anti-nH-IFN-gamma antibody and G-208. This assay monitors only biologically active H-IFN-gamma molecule. Thus, this method may be used for the direct determination of H-IFN-gamma instead of determination of antiviral activity of H-IFN-gamma. PMID- 2517543 TI - Long-term effects of lithium on the kidney: functional-morphological correlations. AB - Correlations between quantitative kidney biopsy findings and clinical renal function in 46 unselected patients treated with lithium for an average of eight years were studied. A significant relationship between maximum renal concentrating capacity and degree of tubular atrophy was found. GFR correlated significantly with sclerotic glomeruli as well as atrophic tubules in patients on a multiple dosage schedule, whereas no relationship was seen in patients receiving lithium in a single daily dose. Thus, renal dysfunction may have a structural basis in a subgroup of lithium-treated patients on a multiple dosage schedule. PMID- 2517546 TI - Nitrate tolerance and its consequences for the clinician. PMID- 2517545 TI - Lupus anticoagulant as a risk factor for cerebral infarction and habitual abortions. AB - A case involving a 34-year-old female with a progressive hemiparesis is described. She had a history of repeated spontaneous abortions. The CT and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a multiple cerebral infarction. A 99mTc perfusion lung scintigram demonstrated diffuse bilateral perfusion defects in the lungs. The presence of lupus anticoagulant (LA) was detected from the laboratory data and the thrombosis in the genital organ. The repeated abortions were probably due to thrombosis in the placental vessels caused by LA. High dose steroid therapy was effective in suppressing the LA activity and in preventing progression of the clinical symptoms. PMID- 2517547 TI - Adult hypophosphataemic osteomalacia with Fanconi syndrome presenting in a patient with neurofibromatosis. AB - A patient is described with neurofibromatosis, increasing walking problems and low back pain. Initially, osteoporosis or pressure caused by a neurofibroma was suspected. However, the progressively increasing alkaline phosphatase activity and hypophosphataemia found during laboratory investigations led to metabolic studies which revealed proximal tubular dysfunction. A bone biopsy showed severe osteomalacia. A diagnosis of hypophosphataemic osteomalacia was made based on the Fanconi-syndrome. The association between hypophosphataemic osteomalacia and neurofibromatosis may be akin to the relationship between this type of osteomalacia and mesenchymal tumours, which has been noticed several times in the literature. The underlying mechanism is unknown. PMID- 2517548 TI - Fine needle aspiration cytology in the management of solitary thyroid nodules--a comparison with other diagnostic modalities in cost-effectiveness. AB - This paper assesses the cost effectiveness of fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) as a selection criteria for surgery in solitary thyroid nodules compared to scintigraphy and ultrasonography. 98 patients who had FNAC and histological confirmation, scintigraphy and/or ultrasonography were studied. The use of combined diagnostic discriminants of positive FNAC, clinical suspicion and age above 50 years detected all malignancies and would have resulted in fewer patients being subjected to surgery--51% (FNAC) vs 90% (Scans, U/S). This resulted in cost savings of $800 per patient seen. We conclude therefore that FNAC should be the diagnostic modality of choice and that the routine use of scintigraphy and ultrasonography is not justifiable. PMID- 2517550 TI - [Retrograde root canal filling using resin and a dentin bonding agent: operative procedures]. AB - Using a specially designed filled resin and the bonding agent Gluma, the aims were to obtain a thin retrograde filling covering the slightly concave root surface which would close all root canals and avoid excess filling material. To achieve a strong bond, the resin must be applied to an absolutely dry Gluma surface, free of all traces of blood or saliva. Hemostasis was obtained primarily by applying 1% adrenalin and by use of a needle suction tip. Absence of moisture was obtained by removing all soft tissues from the cavity, using dry compressed air and avoiding condensed moisture from a cool resin. To avoid loosening of the filling, the working time of the resin must not be exceeded, and removal of excess filling material must not be done before polymerization is complete. Contamination of the various chemicals and filled resin must be avoided in order to avoid damage to the surrounding tissues. PMID- 2517549 TI - [Retrograde root canal filling using resin and a dentin bonding agent: analysis of failures]. AB - With Gluma, an aqueous solution of 5% glutaraldehyde and 35% HE-MA, resin may be chemically bonded to a root surface. In the article failures of apical retrograde root fillings with Gluma and resin (retroplast) were studied, clinically and radiographically, as well as by microscopy of ground sections of extracted teeth or by scanning electron microscopy of loosened retroplast fillings. Out of 52 failures, 23 were not related to retroplast (18 had root fracture). Of the remaining 29 cases, 26 were reoperated. More than half of the failures had loose retroplast fillings. The loosening could be caused by: exceeded working time for the resin or moisture, blood or saliva present on the root before filling, debris on the root surface, possibly because of corrosion, or the presence of phenol in the root canal. In five cases of failure there were denuded root canals. Four cases (of 800) with rapidly developing osteitis might have been due to contamination of bone and soft tissue by EDTA, non-polymerized resin, alcohol or glutaraldehyde. PMID- 2517552 TI - [Fissure sealants]. AB - Compared to the situation in Japan, the USA or Great Britain fissure sealing for caries prevention seems to be less popular in Switzerland. Each Swiss dentist used per year (i.e. statistical average in 1988) sealants for an amount of sfr 40.00 compared to e.g. sfr 50.00 in the USA or sfr 55.00 in Japan. The explanation may be found in the high efforts and positive results already achieved in Switzerland with other preventive measurements such as tooth cleaning and various forms of fluoridation. The three most popular brands used for fissure sealing in Switzerland in 1988 and 1989 are: Delton (market share 66% by value, 50% by weight); Helioseal (10% by value, 20% by weight); White Sealant (20% by value, 18% by weight). PMID- 2517551 TI - [History of dental prostheses]. PMID- 2517553 TI - [Implantation in dental practice. Results of an inquiry]. PMID- 2517554 TI - Primary and acquired drug resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains in western region of Libyan Arab Jamahiriya. AB - Drug resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains prevalent in the Western Region of Libyan Arab Jamahiriya was studied for the years 1984, 1985 and 1986 at the regional tuberculosis control centre at Gurgi, Tripoli. Records of resistance to streptomycin, isoniazid, ethambutol and rifampicin were analysed. Whereas primary drug resistance was observed in 5.1%, 19.5% and 3.8%, acquired drug resistance was found in 12.2%, 34.0% and 15.3% of the strains in 1984, 1985 and 1986 respectively. Only 3 out of 598 strains (1.2%) were found to show acquired resistance to rifampicin. No primary resistance to rifampicin was observed. The situation of drug resistance in pulmonary tuberculosis in the Jamahiriya is discussed. PMID- 2517555 TI - Paratyphoid fever presenting with renal failure and nephrotic syndrome. AB - A previously healthy 39-year-old woman had a short, febrile illness that culminated in severe, acute renal failure in association with features of the nephrotic syndrome. Salmonella paratyphi B was isolated from her blood and stool. Treatment with chloramphenicol, dialysis, heparin and steroids was followed by gradual but complete recovery. Paratyphoid is usually more benign than typhoid fever, but is not without danger and may be complicated by potentially fatal renal disease. PMID- 2517556 TI - Visual cortical receptive fields in monkey and cat: spatial and temporal phase transfer function. AB - The response amplitude of simple cortical cells to spatiotemporal sine-wave patterns has been thoroughly documented in both cat and monkey. However, comparable measurements of response phase are not available even though phase measurements are essential for estimating the complete transfer function of a cell, and thus its spatiotemporal receptive field. This report describes a simple procedure for measuring both the amplitude and the phase transfer functions of striate cells. This technique was applied to 15 monkey and 27 cat simple cells. The spatiotemporal phase response functions were found to be adequately described by linear equations in four parameters. Both the amplitude and phase responses were found to satisfy several strong constraints implied by the class of linear quadrature models proposed recently in theories of biological motion sensitivity. Because the data satisfied these constraints, it was possible to determine four important receptive field properties from the phase data: the spatial symmetry, the temporal symmetry, the response latency, and the spatial position. The receptive fields were found to have a wide range of spatial symmetries, but a more narrow range of temporal symmetries. Spatiotemporal receptive fields reconstructed from complete transfer functions are used to illustrate some of the differences between direction selective and nondirection selective cells. Finally, the effects of linear and nonlinear mechanisms on amplitude, phase, and direction selective responses are considered. PMID- 2517558 TI - [Sensitivity of the arthrosporic and microconidial stages of Trichophyton mentagrophytes to griseofulvin and ketoconazole]. AB - With the use of the modified agar dilution method the present author tested the antifungal activity of griseofulvin and ketoconazole to two spored forms of Trichophyton mentagrophytes. No statistically significant differences were found between the sensitivity of microconidia and arthrospores in both preparations tested. MIC and MFC values of griseofulvin and ketoconazole oscillated within a narrow concentration range. An exception was strain TM 1169, which was highly sensitive to ketoconazole (MIC less than or equal to 0.09 mg l-1, MFC = 1.56 mg l 1), but not to griseofulvin. The results suggest that the testing of antifungal agents in vitro in dermatophytes is not influenced by the growth form of the fungus. PMID- 2517557 TI - Differentiation in medulloblastomas: immunohistochemical study of twenty-one cases. AB - Twenty-one cases of medulloblastoma (MB), 20 corresponding to the classical type and 1 to the desmoplastic variant (DPM), were studied immunohistochemically with glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), S-100 protein (S-100P), neuron-specific enolase (NSE) and 200-kd neurofilaments (NF) in order to assess their differentiation potential. Their respective positivities in neoplastic cells were: 42% for GFAP, 47% for S-100P, 61% for NSE and absence of NF. Isolated neoplastic cells (e.g., cells lacking processes and with scanty cytoplasm), appeared positive for neuroglial markers (GFAP and S-100P). Most cases, however, showed positive reactive neuroglial cells. NF were never found in neoplastic cells, but in trapped neuronal processes. In most cases, large numbers of cells had high positivity to NSE. Cells of lucent islands of DPM were positive for GFAP and S-100P, while Homer-Wright type rosettes showed positive only for NSE. The above results support a neuroglial differentiation in MB. NSE was considered a nonspecific marker for neuroblastic cells. PMID- 2517559 TI - Comparative study of the surface charge of some isolates of trypanosomatids of the genus Phytomonas. AB - The surface charge of different isolates of Phytomonas from Euphorbia hyssopifolia, Euphorbia pinea, Euphorbia characias and Manihot esculenta was analysed by the binding of cationic particles (colloidal iron hydroxide at pH 1.8 and cationized ferritin at pH 7.2) to the protozoan surface and by determination of the cell electrophoretic mobility (EPM). All the isolates had a net negative surface charge, and the isolate from E. hyssopifolia manifested the greatest negative charge. A good relationship between the electrophoretic mobility data and the density of the cationic particles on the parasite's surface, as seen in ultrathin sections, was observed. Neuraminidase treatment did not significantly reduce the mean EPM of the parasites analysed. PMID- 2517560 TI - On the coupling between DNA replication and mitosis. AB - The rapid, early cell divisions in Xenopus laevis embryos are driven by an inflexible oscillator that is not influenced by the state of the DNA. In contrast, mitosis in somatic cells can be prevented by blocking replication or by damaging the DNA through irradiation. We have investigated the transition from the rapid, early cell cycle to the slower, more somatic-like cell cycle that occurs after division twelve in developing Xenopus embryos, a stage called the mid-blastula transition (MBT). When aphidicolin, an inhibitor of DNA synthesis, was added to embryos just post-fertilization, the embryos continued to divide despite incomplete replication. Also, embryos incubated with aphidicolin from early times did not slow their cell cycles after division twelve as control embryos did, indicating a connection between the accumulation of DNA and the post MBT timing of the cell cycle. However, incubation with hydroxyurea, an inhibitor of ribonucleotide reductase, resulted in an S phase arrest when the pools of dNTPs became depleted after division twelve. These experiments showed that the embryos had acquired the ability to arrest in S phase some time after the early divisions and before division thirteen. The acquisition of the ability to arrest in S phase did not depend upon new transcription. These experiments suggested that the number of nuclei present could be responsible for the extension of the cell cycle observed after the MBT. To investigate this, we added increasing concentrations of nuclei to an in vitro cell cycle system. We have shown that at high concentrations of nuclei the in vitro cycle is extended. PMID- 2517561 TI - [Diagnosis of deficiency in cofactor of phenylalanine hydroxylase: a metabolic emergency]. AB - We report on two cases of children suffering from biopterin synthetase deficiency. Both were treated with the same treatment schedule with biopterin and neurotransmitters: 6-hydroxytryptophan and dihydrophenylalanine (DOPA). The only difference between the two cases is the time of diagnosis and therefore of treatment. The child who was treated early has a normal neurologic development. The other one has been treated since he was 7 months old and is mentally deficient (DQ = 0.60). This older child also suffers from dystonia probably secondary to Levodopa treatment. The authors emphasize the uncertainty of these patient's evolution owing to complications of the disease itself or those due to prolonged treatment by neurotransmitters. PMID- 2517562 TI - Non-invasive continuous fetal transcutaneous pO2 and pCO2 monitoring during labor. AB - Continuous measurements of fetal scalp transcutaneous pO2 (tcpO2) and pCO2 (tcpCO2) monitoring were performed for 49 patients for the purpose of the evaluation of the fetal well-being. The equipment used was transcutaneous pO2/pCO2 monitor Micro Gas 7640 (KONTRON, Switzerland), which was inserted through the vagina and attached to the fetal head with a suction ring. Blood was taken from the umbilical vessels and pO2 and pCO2 values were analyzed. The correlation coefficient between pO2 in the umbilical artery and tcpO2 was 0.78 (p less than 0.01), and that between pCO2 in the umbilical artery and tcPCO2 was 0.79 (p less than 0.01). Relationships between the transcutaneous blood gas analysis and FHR patterns were discussed. Increase of pCO2 and decrease of tcpO2 was observed in the cases of variable deceleration, not observed in the case of early deceleration. FHR patterns don't always indicate fetal condition, for example in the case of fetal arrhythmia, especially fetal bradycardia. But tcpO2 monitoring of the fetus affected fetal arrhythmia during labor aids diagnosis of fetal distress by FHR patterns, especially in the case of fetuses affected by fetal bradycardia. PMID- 2517563 TI - Serum uric acid levels in Chagas' disease. AB - Uricemia was studied in a sample of 192 individuals from a highly endemic site for Chagas' disease (Bambui, State of Minas Gerais, Brazil). The sample had 50 serologically negative individuals (controls) and the positive ones were classified on the basis of the presence of electrocardiographic alterations (63), altered esophageal emptying (16), or without any sign on symptom of the disease (76). Only the individuals with the digestive form of chronic Chagas' disease showed hyperuricemia, when compared with the appropriate controls. Family data suggest that hyperuricemia is an effect of the digestive pathology, rather than a cause, since the non-infected sibs of the megaesophagous patients did not show elevated levels of serum uric acid. Possible mechanisms responsible for these findings are postulated. PMID- 2517564 TI - [Resistance to desiccation of Biomphalaria glabrata adults infested by various miracidia of Schistosoma mansoni]. AB - 1200 adult Biomphalaria glabrata were submitted during 6 weeks to anhydrobiosis condition. Some snails were healthy, some were previously infected 3 days or 12 days ago with 8 +/- 2 miracidia of Schistosoma mansoni, others were shedding cercariae. The snails were put on soil or buried into hermetically closed, or ventilated, plastic boxes. There was no survival of snails kept in sealed boxes, or among positive snails, but 44% of control healthy snails and 40.6% of infected (for 3 or 12 days) snails in ventilated boxes were living at the term of the desiccation stage. Survival was better for "on soil" snails than for "buried" snails, but no difference was shown between 3-days and 12-days infection. The surviving desiccated B. glabrata had a lesser death rate and a lesser cercarial production than infected snails kept in water. An inferior production of male cercariae comparatively to female and to "mixed" cercariae was demonstrated by statistical analysis of the cercarial sheddings. In all positive snails, periodic variations of cercarial production was shown, whatever the sex of those cercariae. In addition many pauses of the sheddings were established by the authors. PMID- 2517565 TI - [Natural infection of wild rodents by Schistosoma mansoni]. AB - In Planalto, a small locality in the interior of the Bahia state, Brazil, 47% of sylvatic rodents were found to be naturally infected with Schistosoma mansoni, whereas the prevalence of the infection in the inhabitants of the area was 3.26%. The rodents (Nectomys) live near the houses, in contact with water, passing viable schistosome eggs in the stools. Worm burden is variable amongst such rodents. Periovular granulomas are small, especially in liver and intestines, and hepatic fibrosis is mild or absent, with no morphological evidence of portal hypertension being noted. Miracidia isolated from the eggs recovered from Nectomys readly infected laboratory-raised Bahia strain of Biomphalaria glabrata. Cercariae then obtained infected Swiss mice in a similar way as the human strains of S. mansoni kept in laboratory. Also, Swiss mice left in contact with water collections in Planalto were easily infected, which proved the transmissibility potential of the area. IN CONCLUSION: sylvatic rodents found in the area of Planalto tolerate well S. mansoni infection, eliminate viable eggs in the stools, are usually infected with a strain probably of human origin and therefore may play a role in maintaining parasite cycle in the area. PMID- 2517566 TI - [Isolation of Trypanosoma cruzi samples by xenodiagnosis and hemoculture from patients with chronic Chagas' disease]. AB - Fifty nine chronic chagasic patients were simultaneously submitted to xenodiagnosis and hemoculture for Trypanosoma cruzi samples isolations. The xenodiagnosis was done with 40 Panstrongylus megistus, Triatoma infestans and Dipetalogaster maximus nymphs, performing 120 triatomines. Groups of 10 insects per specie were dissecated and the intestinal content pooled and examined, after previous trituration and homogenization. The microscopically negative material was seed into LIT medium and examined after 20 days. Twenty nine patients were parasitologically proved, being 15 only by xenodiagnosis, 4 only by hemoculture and 10 by both methods. It was discussed the parasitological comprovation difficulties in chronic chagasic patients, the value of the simultaneous utilization of different triatomine species in xenodiagnosis and the hemoculture, in a favorable positive association to the sensitivity increase in the diagnosis' disease. The 49.2% of positivity obtained in this group, visualize approaches like clinic-therapeutic assay and or epidemiological (case-control) with the purpose to investigate a possible association with T. cruzi samples and different clinic forms in Chagas' disease. PMID- 2517567 TI - [Isolation of Corynebacterium diphtheriae from sperm fluid]. AB - The isolation of toxigenic Corynebacterium diphtheriae from sperm is reported. The organism was identified through the investigation of fluorescence under the UV light, the presence of pirazinecarboxilamidase enzyme (Pyz), in vitro and in vivo and virulence methods (single radial immunodiffusion, cell culture, guinea pig intradermic test). The strain was initially considered nontoxinogenic by single radial immunodiffusion, but its virulence was observed afterwards, when we applied the tests already mentioned. The strain could be considered a "Diphtheroid" without adequate specification. PMID- 2517568 TI - Phage typing of Micobacterium tuberculosis in Cuba. PMID- 2517570 TI - Sympathetic-sensory axon to axon contacts in the dental pulp. AB - The activity in stimulated intrapulpal sensory nerve fibres can be increased by simultaneous stimulation of the sympathetic system. The anatomical basis for this interaction is unknown. Unmyelinated nerve fibres in the dental pulp are characterized by incomplete isolation and ensheathment. Individual pockets of Schwann cells often contain several axons in close contact within a confined space. If a pocket contained both sensory and adrenergic axons it is possible that activity in one could affect the properties of the other. Four young adult ferrets were, under general anesthesia injected intraperitoneally with the false neurotransmitter 6-hydroxydopamine which accumulates as dark vesicles within adrenergic axons. The animals were, still under general anesthesia, perfused four hours later with a fixative mixture. The canine teeth were removed, decalcified and prepared for electron microscopy. Ultrathin sections of the dental pulp were examined in the electron microscope. Convincingly labelled axons were rare. Labelled sympathetic axons were found in common Schwann cell pockets with unlabelled, presumably sensory, axons. This confirms studies in which degeneration has been observed following either surgical removal of the superior cervical ganglion or chemical sympathectomy. While this "axonal mingling" probably occurs in other sites it may be more extensive in the dental pulp. PMID- 2517569 TI - Does a small minority of elderly account for a majority of health care expenditures? A sixteen-year perspective. AB - Canadian and American analysts commonly find that a small proportion of the elderly is responsible for a large share of health care expenditures. Data on a representative cohort in Manitoba indicate that the longer the time frame studied, the less health care usage concentrates in a single small group of elderly people. Over the sixteen-year period treated, the average older person's risks of using hospital and nursing home services is nevertheless notably higher than reported to date; yet, one-half of the elderly make relatively minimal demands on the health care system. The results reinforce calls for targeting the needs of intensive consumers of health care services and highlight the variability of cumulative usage patterns among older Manitobans. PMID- 2517571 TI - [Synthesis of phosphobetaine--a derivative of long-chain tertiary aliphatic amine with epichlorohydrin]. AB - Synthesis of a new surface active agent, a phosphobetaine derivative of tertiary amines with C12-22 long chains and sodium 3-chloro-2-hydroxypropyl phosphate has been elaborated. The reactants were applied at the molar ratio of 1:1.3. The obtained compounds was found to possess high surfactant and antimicrobial activities. PMID- 2517572 TI - [Selenazoles. XII. (1) Reaction of 4-(p-tolyl)-selenosemi-carbazides of acetic, benzoic, isonicotinic, nicotinic and picolinic acid with omega-acetophenone]. AB - The cyclization of 4-(p-tolyl)-selenosemicarbazides of acetic, benzoic, isonicotinic, nicotinic and picolinic acids (Ia-e) with omega-bromoacetophenone was investigated in the medium of methanol (Method A) or in methanol in the presence of anhydrous sodium acetate (Method B). Acid hydrolysis of compounds IIf i and IVa-c, e was studied. Results of UV and IR spectrometric measurements and of the in vitro microbiological studies are presented. In contradistinction to corresponding thiosemicarbazides, the change in N4 nitrogen atom basicity of the parent selenosemicarbazide I (pKa of p-toluidine = 5.1), in comparison to that of 4-phenyl-selenosemicarbazide (pKa of aniline = 4.63), proved to influence the equilibrium of the reaction with omega-bromoacetophenone only in the methanol medium without addition of anhydrous sodium acetate (Method A). PMID- 2517574 TI - [Evaluation of biological equivalency of Sustonit (Polfa) and Sustac by plethysmography]. AB - Bioequivalence of Sustonit tablets (2.6 and 6.5 mg) produced at WZF Polfa and Sustac tablets (2.6 and 6.5 mg) made by Krka (Yugoslavia) and WZF Polfa (Poland) was studied by means of the digital plethysmography. All the three drugs with the nitroglycerin content of 2.6 mg were found to be biologically equivalent. On the other hand, Sustonit (WZF Polfa) and Sustac (Krka) tablets with 6.5 mg nitroglycerin proved to possess better bioavailability than Sustac (6.5 mg) tablets produced previously at WZF Polfa. PMID- 2517573 TI - [Study of various peptides isolated from residues after extraction of insulin from the pancreas. I. Chemical characteristics of the studied substances]. AB - Several series of Lipotropin substance produced at "Polfa" were subjected to physiochemical investigations. The contents of dry residue, ash, ribose, protein, total nitrogen, ammonium nitrogen and amino acid nitrogen were determined. Particular series proved to differ in contents of ribose and amino acids. For the purpose of comparison, identical studies were carried out with Lipormone made by "Labor. Choay" (France). Substantial differences were found between the two preparations. PMID- 2517575 TI - Comparison of in vitro and in vivo rumen fermentation by rumen modifiers. PMID- 2517576 TI - [Evolutionary biological aspects of the physiology of extracorporeal CO2 removal]. AB - Extracorporeal CO2 elimination (ECCO2-R) is a new approach to the treatment of severe respiratory failure. Gas exchange is separated into oxygen uptake by apneic oxygenation through the natural lungs while CO2 is removed extracorporeally with an artificial organ. The physiological conditions of both processes can thus be optimized. In the course of evolution, a similar bimodal gas exchange has developed during the respiratory transition from aquatic gas exchange to pulmonary gas exchange: In air-breathing fish or amphibia oxygenation is accomplished predominantly via the lungs while CO2 is eliminated via gill or skin. Today's air-breathing vertebrates maintain a considerable respiratory acidosis which has to be compensated for by an appropriate bicarbonate level. This is dependent upon gill reduction and skin armor to prevent evaporation leading to a rise in pCO2 from 3-4 to 40 mmHg and a tenfold increase of serum bicarbonate levels. We believe that the developmental history of respiration justifies the use of a bimodal gas exchange system. It is clinically applied as extracorporeal CO2 removal with membrane lungs (ECCO2-R) or, still under investigation, in a hemodialysis-related procedure (extracorporeal bicarbonate/CO2 removal: ECBicCO2). PMID- 2517577 TI - Sulphate-stimulate liver glycogen phosphorylase b: new evidence of changes in the conformation of the enzyme. AB - It has been known for same time that sulphate ions stimulate liver glycogen phosphorylase b, both in the presence and in the absence of AMP. In the present paper we describe some observations (like a modified method of purification of the enzyme after sulphate treatment of the animals) suggesting that actual changes of the physical properties of the enzyme occur after intravenous injection of sodium sulphate. In order to avoid formation of phosphorylase a these studies were performed on enzyme from phosphorylase-b-kinase deficient (gsd/gsd) rats. PMID- 2517578 TI - Enkephalins and exorphins oxidation by tyrosinase. AB - Tyrosinase activity was tested on some tyrosine-containing peptides (enkephalins and exorphins). All they are substrates for tyrosinase, showing a good affinity for the enzyme, in some cases higher than tyrosine itself. Aminoacid analysis after hydrolysis of long-lasting incubation mixtures of tyrosinase with Leu enkephalin in presence of reductants demonstrates the formation of DOPA. The production of a new peptide containing DOPA derived from the oxidation of Leu enkephalin was revealed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). PMID- 2517579 TI - Purification and identification of ADP-ribosylated proteins from bull testis intact nuclei. AB - Isolated, intact bull testis nuclei were incubated with [14C] NAD. A large amount of radioactivity was associated to loosely bound chromosomal proteins extracted with 0.35M NaCl and fractionated with trichloroacetic acid. The labelled nuclear proteins included essentially a number of components belonging to the low mobility group. Mg2(+)-catalyzed alkali digestion of radioactive proteins and further analysis demonstrated that the final products were 5'-AMP and phospho ribosyl-AMP, which arise from the hydrolysis of poly(ADP-ribose). PMID- 2517580 TI - Messenger RNA editing and modification. PMID- 2517582 TI - A simple guide to increasing nurse productivity. PMID- 2517583 TI - Current economic realities: implications for the nurse executive. PMID- 2517584 TI - Methylcarbamate effects on Meckel's cartilages in the chick embryo. AB - On the basis of previous observations on the teratogenic effects of a variety of organophosphorus and methylcarbamate compounds on the avian skeletal apparatus, the Meckel's cartilage shape and structure were analyzed in carbaryl (1-naphthyl N-methylcarbamate) treated and control chick embryos of 9, 10, 12 days of incubation. The results indicate that both during normal development and under experimental conditions these cartilages undergo similar deformities, apparently subsequent to chondroblast death and regressive processes in the extracellular matrix. Since the macro- and microscopical cartilage alterations are significantly more frequent in the treated embryos than in the controls, a hypothesis is advanced that the methylcarbamate may increase the spontaneous tendency of the above mentioned cartilaginous anlagen to be affected by degenerative processes during embryogenesis. PMID- 2517581 TI - The extended family of proteoglycans: social residents of the pericellular zone. PMID- 2517586 TI - Pancreatic involvement in murine schistosomiasis. AB - Pancreatic involvement during murine schistosomiasis is frequent (30 to 80%), heterogeneous, usually mild, but can occasionally be severe, characterized by granulomatous pancreatitis. After infection, pancreatic granulomas appear from day 50 on, with the most severe pancreatitis being demonstrable between days 90 and 100. Mice thus appear to be a useful model for study of the pathogenesis of Schistosoma mansoni-induced pancreatitis. PMID- 2517585 TI - Comparative lectin-binding patterns in the epidermis and dermal glands of Bufo bufo (L.) and Xenopus laevis (Daudin). AB - Bouin-fixed and paraffin-embedded sections from the dorsal skin of Bufo bufo and Xenopus Laevis were subjected to lectin histochemistry. A panel of biotinylated lectins (Con-A, PSA, LCA, UEA-I, DBA, SBA, SJA, RCA-I, BSL-I, WGA, s-WGA, PHA-E and PHA-L) and an avidin-biotin-peroxidase complex (ABC) showed a species specific compartmentalization of saccharides to certain parts of the epidermis and glandular domains. Some marked histochemical differences between the two examined species adapted to fully aquatic (X. laevis) or semiterrestrial (B. bufo) environments may be relevant of a relationship existing between habitat selection and the glycosaminoglycans content of the skin. In addition the technique used in this paper may be applicable for further studies of the carbohydrate composition in various tissues of lower vertebrates. PMID- 2517587 TI - Antimicrobial activity of kaurenoic acid derivatives substituted on carbon-15. AB - The antibacterial and antifungic activities of two kaurenic acids, ent kaurenoic acid and cinnamoylgrandifloric acid isolated from a hexane extract of aerial parts of Mikania laevigata, were investigated and compared with the activities of other kaurenic acid derivatives substituted on carbon-15. Only acetylgrandifloric acid (ent-kaur-16-en-15 alpha-acetyloxy-19-oic) and its epimer xylopic acid (ent kaur-16-en-15 beta-acetyloxy-19-oic) displayed significant antibacterial activity at concentrations greater than or equal to 250 micrograms/ml, the 15 alpha epimer being the most active. PMID- 2517588 TI - Does NF-kappa B relieve the transcription block in c-myc? AB - In this report, it is shown that the mRNA of the c-myc oncogene is capable of forming an extensive stem-and-loop structure, with a free energy of delta G (25 degrees C) = -34 kcal. This secondary structure is situated at the 3' end of the first exon, immediately upstream of an elongation block. It is shown that this region contains potential binding sites for 3 different activator proteins, namely AP-1, AP-2, and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kappa B). From an analysis of the properties of these proteins, NF-kappa B could be identified as a candidate for the trans-acting factor involved in relieving the block to transcription. PMID- 2517589 TI - Effect of the ornithine decarboxylase inhibitor alpha, alpha difluoromethylornithine on phorbol diester-induced inhibition of murine B lymphocyte differentiation. AB - The tumor-promoting agent 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) inhibits the differentiation of murine B lymphocytes to antibody-producing plasma cells, in unfractionated spleen cell cultures or enriched B lymphocyte cultures. To determine the role of polyamines in TPA-induced inhibition, unfractionated splenic lymphocytes, in culture with antigen, were incubated with alpha, alpha difluoromethylornithine (DFMO, 0.10 mM), an irreversible inhibitor of ornithine decarboxylase (ODC). DFMO prevented the TPA-induced inhibition of antibody forming cell number in a 5-day in vitro immunization procedure as measured by a hemolytic plaque assay. In enriched B lymphocyte cultures, however, DFMO had no comparable effect. DFMO did not prevent TPA-induced inhibition of antibody production in unfractionated spleen cell cultures but itself inhibited the amount of antibody produced. Putrescine (0.1 mM), added on day 4 of immunization, reversed DFMO inhibition of antibody production but did not enable DFMO to prevent the TPA-induced inhibition. These findings suggest that TPA-induced inhibition of plasma cell number can be mediated indirectly through effects on T lymphocytes and/or macrophages or directly through effect on B lymphocytes. PMID- 2517590 TI - Studies on the kinetics of expression of cell cycle dependent proto-oncogenes during mitogen-induced liver cell proliferation. AB - The present study was undertaken to determine the kinetics of DNA synthesis and expression of cell cycle dependent proto-oncogenes in response to two types of cell proliferative stimuli in male Wistar rat liver. The peak of DNA synthesis was approximately 24 h after a compensatory cell proliferative stimulus induced by 2/3 partial hepatectomy and approximately 36 h following a mitogenic stimulus obtained with a single dose of lead nitrate (10 micromol/100 g body wt, through femoral vein). Even though both proliferative stimuli induced the expression of c fos, c-myc and c-Ha-ras, the extent of the increase in c-fos expression was 4- to 5-fold less in mitogen-induced cell proliferation. In addition, while the expression of c-myc, following partial hepatectomy returned to basal level by 4 h, the induced expression of c-myc persisted for up to 40 h during the lead nitrate-induced liver cell proliferation. PMID- 2517591 TI - Modulation by some natural carotenoids of DNA adduct formation by aflatoxin B1 in vitro. AB - Nine natural carotenoids have been tested for their ability to modulate formation of DNA adduct by the carcinogen aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) in an in vitro reaction catalyzed by rat liver microsomes. Certain apo-carotenoids, which are precursors of vitamin A, were found to be very efficient in inhibiting the adduct formation. Some other carotenoids, which although have less pro-vitamin A activity, also showed similar inhibitory effect. The DNA adduct formation appeared to be modulated through the action of the carotenoids on microsomal enzymes, since an effective inhibition in each case was observed on the formation of the activated AFB1-metabolite. It is envisaged that such inhibition could form a basis by which natural carotenoids could counteract the carcinogenic action of AFB1. PMID- 2517592 TI - Lack of modifying effects of linolic acid hydroperoxides and their secondary oxidative products on combined 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene and 1,2 dimethylhydrazine-initiated mammary gland, ear duct and colon carcinogenesis in female Sprague-Dawley rats. AB - Effects of hydroperoxides, autoxidation products of linolic acid (HPO) and secondary oxidative products of HPO (SOP) (5% each in diet) were examined in female Sprague-Dawley rats. HPO and SOP administration was carried out during or subsequent to two injections of dimethylhydrazine (DMH) (40 mg/kg body wt s.c.), and a single i.g. dose of 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) (50 mg/kg body wt). No significant differences in the incidences of tumors in the mammary gland, colon, ear duct and hematopoietic system associated with HPO or SOP treatment were evident, during or after carcinogen exposure. The present results therefore indicate that the environmental contaminants, HPO and SOP, lack any potential for modification of mammary gland or colon carcinogenesis under the conditions of the investigation. PMID- 2517593 TI - Effect of tannic acid on rat liver S9 mediated mutagenesis, metabolism and DNA binding of benzo[a]pyrene. AB - Tannic acid, a naturally occurring plant phenol, inhibited rat liver S9 mediated mutagenesis of benzo[a]pyrene in Salmonella typhimurium by 32-77% at concentrations of 5-50 micrograms/mutagenesis plate. Tannic acid (10-40 microM) had no affect on the formation of organosoluble metabolites of benzo[a]pyrene or of its water-soluble conjugates. It did, however, inhibit benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) metabolite binding to calf thymus DNA by 40% at a concentration of 40 microM and inhibited benzo[a]pyrene 7,8-dihydrodiol-9,10-epoxide (BPDE): deoxyguanosine adduct formation in calf thymus DNA by 12-54% at concentrations of 10-40 microM. These results suggest that the antimutagenic effect of tannic acid and inhibition of B[a]P metabolite binding to DNA is by a previously described scavenging mechanism and/or by a DNA-affinity binding mechanism that prevents BPDE interaction with DNA as previously described for ellagic acid. PMID- 2517594 TI - Synapsin I, a neuron-specific phosphoprotein interacting with small synaptic vesicles and F-actin. AB - Synapsin I is a neuron-specific phosphoprotein which is a substrate for cAMP- and Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinases. It is specifically localized to the cytoplasmic side of small synaptic vesicles. The interaction of synapsin I with the synaptic vesicle membrane is complex in nature, since it is modulated by phosphorylation and involves binding of different domains of the molecule to phospholipid and protein components of synaptic vesicles. Synapsin I is also able to interact with actin filaments in a phosphorylation-dependent manner. Because of these properties, it has been hypothesized that synapsin I acts as a dynamic link between synaptic vesicles an the actin meshwork of the nerve terminal, thereby modulating the release of neurotransmitter. PMID- 2517595 TI - Synaptophysin and synapsin I as tools for the study of the exo-endocytotic cycle. AB - Synaptophysin, an integral protein of the synaptic vesicle membrane, and synapsin I, a phosphoprotein associated with the cytoplasmic side of synaptic vesicles, represent useful markers that allow to follow the movements of the vesicle membrane during recycling. The use of antibodies against these proteins to label nerve terminals during experimental treatments which stimulate secretion has provided evidence that during the exo-endocytotic cycle synaptic vesicles transiently fuse with the axolemma, from which they are specifically recovered. When recycling is blocked, exocytosis leads to the permanent incorporation of the synaptic vesicle membrane into the axolemma and to diffusion of the vesicle components in the plane of the membrane. PMID- 2517596 TI - The genetics of type A potassium channels in Drosophila melanogaster. PMID- 2517597 TI - [Determination of nitroglycerin in human plasma using gas chromatography after the administration of dosage forms used in Czechoslovakia]. AB - An analytical method was developed to determine nitroglycerin in human plasma. The analytical method is based on the extraction of plasma with hexane and the feeding of the packed collumn (10% OV 101) of the gas chromatographic apparatus with the concentrated hexane phase. After separation, detection is carried out by a detector of electron capture. The described method is sensitive (limit of detection = 50 pg/ml of plasma) and sufficiently precise (error of the method = 13%). The precision of the method during the day (+/- 12%) and between the days (+/- 8%) is presented, as well as the return of nitroglycerin from plasma (95%). An application of the method on comparing the pharmacokinetic parameters in two dosage forms used in Czechoslovakia is shown. The results after the administration of one mg of the sublingual and spray forms of nitroglycerin preparations are documented by the course of the levels in the individual experimental subjects and the principal pharmacokinetic parameters derived from the one-compartmental model. PMID- 2517598 TI - [Immunohistochemical study of the expression of major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-determined antigens in renal tissue of MRL/lpr mice]. AB - Expression of MHC antigens in renal tissue of MRL/lpr(H-2K) mice were demonstrated by monoclonal antibodies against class I(KK) and class II(IAK) antigens and ABC immunoperoxidase method. The expression of KK antigen in glomeruli, tubules and vessels of kidney and IAK antigen in glomeruli tubules was stronger in mice fed with beef tallow diet after gamma-interferon treatment than in the control group. This result suggests that using of gamma-interferon may enhance the presentation of MHC antigens in renal tissue of MRL/lpr mice. In mice raised with Menhaden fish oil diet after gamma-interferon treatment, however, the enhancement of expression of IAK antigen was detected only in renal tubules. In comparing with mice fed with beef tallow after gamma-interferon injection, the expression of KK antigen in glomeruli, vessels and IAK in the dendritic cells of renal interstitium was weaker in mice fed with fish oil. This result indicates that fish oil can more or less inhibit the expression of MHC antigens in renal tissue of mice. The mechanism of the inhibitory action of fish oil remains to be elucidated. PMID- 2517599 TI - [The progress of the morphological research on the acupoint]. AB - The morphological research of the acupoint began from 1977. The scholars have studied on three main works as following. 1) The sensory organs in the acupoint: The area of acupoint contains free nerve ending, Vater-Pacini corpuclese and muscular spindle. The nerve fibers are I, II, III types, the chief is II. 2) The segmental distributions of afferent neuronal fibers of the acupoint: The evidence of the experimental research has revealed that the fibers of mainly and essential acupoints are definite to be afferent segments. The fibers of the upper and lower limbs acupoints projected into III-IX lamina of the posterior horn of the spinal cord. 3) The mutual intersect in the dorsal ganglia between the segmental distributions of the afferent neurons of viscera and that of acupoints. It is proposed that the mutual intersect between the segmental distributions of the afferent neurons of viscera and that of the acupoints is probable the morphological foundation for the theory of somato-viscera. PMID- 2517601 TI - [Morphological research on somatoviscera correlation theory]. AB - The experiment was divided into 2 groups. In one group, the animal's nodose ganglion of vagus nerve was taken out; in another group, the animal's half spinal cord was cut off. The results showed that both somatic ascending fibers and vagus nervous fibers all projected in solitary nucleus, commissural nucleus, trigeminal spinal nucleus and in nucleus medulla oblongalae centralis, i.e., these nuclei not only related to somatic nerves, but also related to splanchnic nerves (vagus nerve), which are considered to be foundation of correlation theory of soma and viscera. PMID- 2517600 TI - [A summary on effects of combined acupuncture anaesthesia for critical, old, week, special patients]. AB - This article summarized the effects of combined acupuncture-epidural anaesthesia (n = 37) and epidural anaesthesia (n = 37) for operations of patients being in a critical, old, weak or special condition. And, the effects were compared between the two different anaesthetic methods in a similar clinical condition. The patients studied were almost complicated with coronary arteriosclerotic heart disease, hypertension or other types of disease excepting the surgical condition. There were different degrees of functional disturbance in their important visceral organs. The states of the body were all belong to critical or weak condition. This might be a difficulty of considerably great for anaesthesia and operation. By using combined acupuncture-epidural anaesthesia, the advantages of acupuncture anaesthesia and epidural anaesthesia were brought into fully play, and, the defect of incomplete analgesia as well as inadequate muscle relaxation was remedied. By acupuncture for 30 to 40 minutes, the EGGs that were originally abnormal had shown some improvement in parts of case and recovered to normal in individual patient. Even though the EGGs had not shown improvement in some cases, but, took no further steps to deteriorate, although undergoing harmful effects in operative process, such as exploration, hemorrhage or others. In some cases, the circulative function showed stabilization exceeding one's expectations. The result showed that acupuncture has a regulative role on the cardiovascular system, thus enhancing the safety in anaesthetic process. PMID- 2517602 TI - [The effect of electro-acupuncture of "neiguan" acupoint on cortical potential evoked by stimulating C-fibers of splanchnic nerve]. AB - In this paper the averaged cortical evoked potential (C-CEP) induced by stimulating the C-fibers of the splanchnic nerve was used as an index of visceral pain to further study the effects of acupuncture and morphine on it. Experiments were carried out on 35 cats anesthetized with chloralose and immobilized with flaxedil. The splanchnic nerve was stimulated with electric pulses of varied strength and blocked by a galvanic current so as to cause A- or C-fibers input selectively. The cortical evoked potential was recorded on the contralateral post sigmoid gyrus and averaged by TQ-19 Medical Data Processor. The compound action potential of splanchnic nerve was monitored. "Neiguan" acupoint was stimulated with electric pulses (0.1ms, 4v and 5Hz). The results were as follows: 1) when "Neiguan" acupoint, was excited with the electric pulses, C-CEP and the late component of A-CEP which was evoked by stimulating A-fibers of splanchnic nerve were obviously reduced in amplitudes. It was suggested that electro-acupuncture (EA) of "Neiguan" acupoint could inhibit visceral pain (the slow and fast pain). 2. After intravenous injection of morphine, the amplitudes of C-CEP and the late component of A-CEP were depressed significantly, indicating that C-CEP might reflect the visceral slow pain and the late component of A-CEP reflect the fast pain. 3. Naloxone could block partially the inhibitory effect of EA of "Neiguan" acupoint on C-CEP, suggesting that the inhibition of EA might be associated with the release of endogenous opiate like substances. PMID- 2517603 TI - [The effect of electrical stimulation of the head of caudate nociceptive neuronal activities in the mesencephalon reticular formation and its relation to the acupuncture effect]. AB - 38 rabbits were anesthetized with chloralose and urethane. As soon as the animal recovered its consciousness it was immobilized with flaxedil and artificial respiration. The electrical activities of the nociceptive neurons were recorded by glass microelectrodes (tip 1-3 microns) in the ranges P7-11 R2-3 HO+1-6, with the aid of a stereotaxic apparatus. 116 of the nociceptive units responded to noxious stimuli which applied to the peroneal nerve with a short train of pulses. Among them, 64 units (55%) responded by an increase in frequency of the discharge to noxious stimuli (pain-excitation neuron, PEN). In contrast, there were 52 units (45%), which responded to noxious stimuli quite differently, by having a decrease in the frequency of the discharge (pain-inhibition neuron, PIN). Similar results were obtained by the stimulation of the head of caudate nucleus with the same train of pulses: an excitatory effect was observed in PEN, and an inhibitory effect in PIN. However, after electroacupuncture by penetrating acupoint "Hegu" or dolantin given intravenously, under the same conditions used above. We again stimulated both the head of caudate nucleus, eliciting an inhibitory effect on PEN. And a reduction of inhibition or release from it on PIN. From the results presented, it indicated that head of caudate nucleus was connected with the modulation of the nociceptive neuronal activity in M.R.F. and was related to the effect of acupuncture. The effect of atropine on the head of caudate nucleus stimulation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2517604 TI - [Effects of electroacupuncture at different hours on leucine-enkephalin contents in rat brain regions]. AB - In the present study, rats were synchronized with light from 8:00 to 20:00, then darkness. Water and food were available ad libitum. The basic levels in medulla oblongata plus pons, hypothalamus, hippocampus midbrain, striatum and cortex, and electroacupuncture influences on them were compared at four different times of a day (5:00, 11:00, 17:00 and 23:00). It was found that: (1) The basic level of LEK in the medulla oblongata plus pons at 11:00 was the highest among the four times; (2) The LEK content increased by 34.8% in the hypothalamus and decreased by 21.4% in the cortex when EA was given at 5:00; The LEK levels in the hypothalamus and the hippocampus increased by 65.3% and by 37.0% respectively when EA at 11:00. The LEK level in the hippocampus increased by 50.1% when EA at 17:00; The hippocampus decreased by 29.8% when EA at 23:00. The results show that a circadian rhythm was evident in the LEK level of the rat medulla oblongata plus pons, also EA at different hours produced different effects on LEK contents in rat discrete brain regions. This provides experimental evidence for acupuncture treatment selecting hours clinically. Also, the physiological circadian variation and the influence of time factor on acupuncture effects should be considered in study of acupuncture mechanism. PMID- 2517605 TI - [Effects of electroacupuncture on nociceptive responses observed on different days after lesion of unilateral somatosensory cortex]. AB - In this paper the effects of electroacupuncture on nociceptive responses were investigated after electrolytic lesion of unilateral somatosensory cortex on different days. It was found that the tail flick latencies (TFL) elicited by radiant heat was not obviously changed by EA (n = 10, P greater than 0.05) on the same day and the next day after the somatosensory cortex was injured, but the enhancement of TFL by EA was of statistical significance on the 7th day (n = 9, p less than 0.05). These results indicate that the effect of EA analgesia was attenuated after lesion of the somatosensory cortex unilaterally. However, it could be recovered after a period of time. It is suggested that the somatosensory cortex is involved in the descending modulation of nociceptive responses at the spinal level, although it may not be the essential structure. PMID- 2517606 TI - [Effect of ketamine on acupuncture analgesia]. AB - There were different opinions about whether ketamine has an antagonistic effect on electroacupuncture (EA) analgesia. The aim of this paper was to investigate the effect of ketamine on EA. The rats were divided into three groups: 4 mg/kg, 20 mg/kg of ketamine in doses, and normal saline groups. Ketamine was injected peritoneally in dosage of 4 mg/kg and 20 mg/kg respectively. Tail flick latency (TFL) and vocalization threshold (VT) were taken as the indices of pain responses. Changqiang and Yaoshu acupoints were selected for electroacupuncture. It was observed that the analgesia effects of EA were attenuated after injection of ketamine either in 4 mg/kg group of 20 mg/kg group. The results indicate that 4 mg/kg or 20 mg/kg ketamine in doses has an antagonistic effect on EA analgesia, suggesting that attention should be paid to the dosage when ketamine is used for EA analgesia. PMID- 2517608 TI - [Effect of electro-acupuncture on the segment length of the myocardium and the left intraventricular pressure-length vector loop during experimental acute myocardial ischemic damage]. AB - In order to explore the effect of electroacupuncture on myocardial contractibility in the ischemic area, a medical Silicon tube with Saturated Copper Sulfate was used as length gauge and set at 5mm below the ligated marginalis and paralleled with blood vessel. The signals of the length and the pumping function were transmitted into the polygraph and the signals of the left intraventricular pressure (LVP) and the segment length (L) were conveyed into the oscilloscope to display the LVP-L vector loop. Electroacupuncture was applied bilaterally on Neiguan points with electrical impulses of strength 5 volts. The coronary artery was ligated for 20 min and then loosened. electro-acupuncture was performed and lasted 20 min. Imbedded the needle for 30 min, then ligated at the original position and never loosened again; 15 min later, the electroacupuncture was performed for the second time, lasting 20 min, then the needle was with drawn and observed for 15 min. The Epicardial ECG was used as the standard to judge the degree of the myocardial ischemic injury. A comparison was made between the parameters determined 15 min after ligation and all the procedures after electroacupuncture. There were 15 dogs in the electroacupuncture group and 15 in the control group. 1. The mean amplitude of segment length of the myocardium was 23 mm before ligation. 15 min after ligation, it slightly decreased in the electroacupuncture group while slightly increased in the control group. There was no obvious difference in the duration of the amplitude between the two groups.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2517609 TI - Relationship between effect of acupuncture on prolactin secretion and central catecholamine and R-aminobutyric acid. AB - This laboratory had reported that acupuncture at "Tan-Zhong" acupoint could stimulate pituitary prolactin (PRL) secretion in both lactating and non-lactating (male, female, ovariectomized estrogen-supplemented) rats. Hu et al had discovered that acupuncture could increase plasma PRL level in women of lactation deficiency. As was known, pituitary PRL secretion was under the control of prolactin inhibitory factor (PIF) and prolactin releasing factor (PRF) released from hypothalamic neurons as well as several central neurotransmitters. In the past decade, many studies in neuroendocrinology revealed that Tubero-infundibular dopamine (TIDA) neurons of hypothalamus play a major modulating role in PRL secretion. It is generally agreed that dopamine was the major PIF. The central noradrenaline (NE) is also a modulator. It was reported that NE could inhibit PRL secretion, but others obtained opposite result. The GABA has dual actions on PRL secretion: central action is stimulatory, but inhibitory on pituitary directly Using agonist or antagonist of central neurotransmitter as well as its biosynthesis blocker etc., this paper mainly observed the possible role of catecholamine and r-aminobutyric acid in prolactin-elevating effect of acupuncture. This will help further studying on and provide possible central mechanism for the effect of promoting milk yield and elevating PRL secretion by acupuncture. PMID- 2517607 TI - [Research on energy metabolism enzyme in liver of the rabbit during hemorrhagic shock and effect of acupuncture at "renzhong" acupoint by quantitative histochemistry]. AB - The energy crisis has been considered to act an important role during shock recent years. We all know the liver can supply for energy substrate when body is in an emergency condition. According to the theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Renzhong acupoint is a very important acupoint to treat "Jue Zheng" (including shock). We divided 36 male rabbits into three groups randomly, they were normal, acupuncture and nonacupuncture. The normal control was anesthetized only with sodium pentobarbital (35mg/kg). The acupuncture and nonacupuncture groups were operated under conscious with method of improving Wiggers(1950). After bleeding 20ml/kg, these animals were in shock. Then the acupuncture group was applied with acupuncture at "Renzhong" and the nonacupuncture group was not during hemorrhagic shock. The samples of liver were excised and stained using enzyme histochemical method. All of them were determined with MPV-2 and Univar SMSP. Two dehydrogenases (LDH and SDH) in hepatocytes were observed in this work. The results showed that the enzyme's activity in nonacupuncture both LDH and SDH were the weakest among three groups (P less than 0.01 and P less than 0.05). But in acupuncture group, they were stronger than nonacupuncture group and near normal control. These suggest that acupuncture at "Renzhong" acupoint can increase activity of LDH and SDH during hemorrhagic shock. It is useful to resistance shock in a certain degree. PMID- 2517610 TI - [Influence of electroacupuncture on ACh content and AChE activity in the spinal ganglia of rat]. AB - The spinal ganglion a cell body storage of somatic primary-sensory neurons, is considered as an important region for neurochemical research of primary afferent nerves. The present experiment aims at the observation on the Ach content and its changes in the ganglia of 128 rats by means of biochemical methods under the effect of administration of Neostigmini and application of electroacupuncture. It is found that there are evidence of existence of Ach in the ganglia and when the AchE activity in the periphery nerve system is inhibited, the Ach content of ganglia rose. In addition, during acupuncture (applied at acupoint "Huantiao") analgesia, no apparent changes of Ach content can be visualized in spinal ganglia, however, the level of AchE activity goes up evidently. The foregoing results indicate that in the somatic primary-sensory neuron Ach is one of important neurotransmitters which may influence and take part in the transmission of sensory information through primary afferent nerves. PMID- 2517611 TI - Advances in child health in China. PMID- 2517613 TI - Contrast study on multinucleated giant cells in giant cell tumors of bone and other multinucleated cells. AB - By means of tissue culture, electron microscopy, cytochemistry, indirect immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry, the multinucleated giant cells(MGCs) in 12 giant cell tumors of bone (GCT) were studied in contrast with osteoclasts (OCs), foreign body giant cells (FGCs) and inflammatory giant cells (IGCs). The findings in the majority of MGCs were identical with those in OCs, suggesting that they most probably derived from the same precursor. Continuous in vitro culture revealed two kinds of MGCs, which were designated preliminarily as short lived MGCs and long-lived MGCs for their difference in morphology and in several biological features, which suggests two kinds of MGCs exist in GCT. We conclude that the short-lived conform to the typical MGCs known generally to the pathologists, while the long-lived are deemed to be closely related to the neoplastic elements of the tumor. PMID- 2517612 TI - A study on tea-pigment in prevention of atherosclerosis. AB - Since Lou Fu-qing et al first reported that tea had effect on the prevention of atherosclerosis (AS) in the 1960s, we have conducted experimental and clinical studies, and found that tea-pigment (TP) could reduce blood coagulability, increase fibrinolysis, prevent platelet adhesion and aggregation, and decrease cholesterol content in aortic walls in vivo (P less than 0.01). In addition, TP was shown to inhibit the proliferation of cultured human aortic smooth muscle cells in normal and elevated LDL circumstance in vitro (P less than 0.01), and decreased the level of T x B2 in platelet-rich plasma and remote myocardial infarction patients (P less than 0.01). TP can be used in the prevention of AS. PMID- 2517614 TI - Radioautographic findings in osteoarthritic femoral head. AB - During total hip replacement for 8 patients with hip joint osteoarthritis specimens of femoral articular cartilages of 3 types of involvement were taken, i.e. the "normal" articular cartilage, the fissured and wrinkled articular cartilage, and the yellow or dusky red, markedly thickened, and roughened articular cartilage. Radioautographical studies with 3H-Thymidine labelling showed the clusters of articular chondrocyte, degeneration, death and vanishing of the chondrocytes with empty lacunae left; and mitosis and proliferation of the chondrocytes, as evidenced by silver granules in the nuclear area. In the articular cartilages of three types of involvement, the percentages of degenerated, dead and vanished chondrocytes represented by empty lacunae, of non mitotic chondrocytes without silver granule and of chondrocytes undergoing mitosis with silver granules, were 19.9, 38.3 and 41.8; 9.1, 48.9 and 42; 5.3, 35.0 and 59.7 respectively. A large number of empty lacunae appeared in the "normal" articular cartilage, signifying aging of the cartilage. Chondrocytes bearing silver granules appeared not only in the "normal" articular cartilage but also largely in the severe osteoarthritic cartilage and served as a compensatory manifestation of both aging and osteoarthritis. PMID- 2517615 TI - Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) in feces of convalescent hepatitis B patients. AB - In 1983, 13 subjects were selected from a factory where an outbreak of viral hepatitis B occurred in October 1982. About 5-7 months later, 13 patients with viral hepatitis B were studied by RPHA and ELISA for HBsAg in feces. Presence of HBsAg was confirmed by specific blocking procedure. HBsAg was found in feces in 69% (9/13) of patients and 30.2% (26/86) of samples collected. 14 fecal specimens found to be positive for HBsAg by RPHA or ELISA examined by immune electron microscopy. Small aggregates of 20-28 nm HBsAg spherical particles were found in three fecal samples. 40-50 nm Dane's-like particles were also observed in one sample. The results suggested that in convalescent period of viral hepatitis B the HBsAg might be excreted through feces. PMID- 2517616 TI - Relationship between viral hepatitis and four trace elements in sera. PMID- 2517617 TI - Detection and preliminary studies of small double capsid virus. AB - This article reports the detection of small double capsid virus and results of preliminary studies on its morphology, serology and relationship to gastroenteritis. A kind of small virus particles with morphological characteristics was found in fecal samples of 3 of 23 infants with autumn gastroenteritis. The average diameter of this virus particles is 34.1 +/- 1.1 nm, possessing core, double capsids and spoke-like capsomers. It can be differentiated from other viruses in morphology. Correlated antigenicity exists among 3 strains of the virus but not among other studied viruses and this virus. The titer of the antibody to small double capsid virus in convalescent phase-sera of 2 patients was more than 4-fold as high as that in control sera. This virus was absent in fecal samples of recovered patients as well as in those of normal infants. These show that small "double layer like" capsid virus might be one of the etiological agents of acute gastroenteritis. PMID- 2517618 TI - Prognostic value of lupus band test in unexposed normal skin of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. AB - Biopsy specimens of normal unexposed buttock skin were taken from 71 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) for lupus band test (LBT). Correlation of positive incidence, fluorescent intensity, protein classes and numbers of LBT with SLE activity including active nephropathy were studied. Positive LBT results are associated with SLE disease activity, decreased CH50 and C3, ANA peripheral pattern and positive AdsDNA antibodies, but not with active nephropathy per se. Although LBT results of unexposed normal skin can reflect SLE activity, its prognostic value should not be overestimated. PMID- 2517619 TI - A morphologic and follow-up study on the nasopharyngeal lymphoid hyperplasia and its relation to the cancer. AB - Fourty-three cases of nasopharyngeal lymphoid hyperplasia (NPLH) were studied morphologically and by follow-up during a period of 8.5 years in a high-incidence city of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). The authors suggest that NPLH might be recognized as a disease entity in adults. Based on the sites and gross appearances of the hyperplastic lymphoid tissue, two types of NPLH, namely, adenoids and nodular, could be distinguished. The histopathological changes of NPLH were described in detail, and its relation to the development of NPC was discussed. According to this study, the authors disagree with the opinion that NPLH is a precancerous lesion. PMID- 2517620 TI - Carbamyl phosphate synthetase I. A novel marker for gastric carcinoma. AB - Carbamyl phosphate synthetase I (CPS1) is an initial enzyme of urea synthetase system. It exists exclusively in liver cells and epithelial cells of the small intestine. By immunocytochemistry, 70.5% of 88 surgically resected gastric carcinomas (42 advanced and 46 early gastric carcinomas) was found to be CPS1 immunoreaction positive, whereas all other carcinomas (of the esophagus, colon, pancreas, lung, breast, ovary, kidney, prostate and urinary bladder) tested were negative. CPS1 expression in gastric carcinoma was closely related to the types of mucin secreted by the carcinoma cells. Most carcinomas secreting sialomucin were CPS1 positive, yet those secreting sulfomucin or neutral mucin did not express CPS1. The types of intestinal metaplasia adjacent to the carcinoma correlated neither with CPS1 expression nor with the histological types of carcinoma. Owing to the fact that gastric carcinomas with CPS1 expression possess the characteristics of small intestinal epithelium, it is very likely that CPS1 can be used as a novel marker for gastric carcinoma originating from complete type intestinal metaplasia. PMID- 2517621 TI - Gastric xanthelasma. AB - Gastric xanthelasmas are macroscopically well demarcated yellow or yellow-white plaques, and microscopically composed of typical foamy macrophages. Of 3870 patients who underwent upper gastrointestinal panendoscopic examinations, 30 (0.8%) were found to have gastric xanthelasma. A moderate predominance of males over females (M:F = 3.3:1) was noted. The age ranged between 21 and 69 years (mean 46.7). Frequency peaked in those from 40 to 60 years of age (53.3%). Single lesions were found in 26 patients and multiple in 4, with diameters of 1-6 mm, nearly 66.7% of which were 2-3 mm. Gastric xanthelasmas are most frequently found in the antrum (67.8%), especially along the lesser curvature. Associated chronic gastritis in the xanthelasma surrounding mucosa was found in the 30 patients and intestinal metaplasia in 4 (13.3%). The cause of gastric xanthelasma is unknown, but chronic gastritis may be the most plausible etiologic factor. PMID- 2517623 TI - Kaposi's sarcoma after steroid therapy for pemphigus foliaceus. AB - A patient with pemphigus foliaceus, derived from pemphigus erythematosus, developed Kaposi's sarcoma characterized by wide-spread skin nodules on the extremities after 5-month treatment with large doses of prednisone. The patient died one year later. We conclude that the immunosuppressive treatment with prolonged large doses of prednisone is attributable to the impairment of cellular immunity and the evolution of Kaposi's sarcoma. PMID- 2517622 TI - Experimental and clinical investigation on oxiconazole. AB - A new antimycotic imicazole drug, oxiconazole, used both in vitro and in vivo in the treatment of 212 cases of tinea corporis, tinea cruris and tinea pedis is reported. In vitro, it shows marked antimycotic effect against 24 strains of pathogenic fungi except those of Wangiella dermatitides and 3 strains of Aspergilli. The minimal inhibition concentration (MIC) to Epidermophyton floccosum and Candida guilliermondi are 1 microgram/ml and 0.5 microgram/ml. The cure rate of 2% cream of oxiconazole in 124 cases of tinea corporis and tinea cruris is 90.3%, and in 88 cases of tinea pedis, 89.78%. PMID- 2517624 TI - Identification of the types of adenovirus isolates with monoclonal antibodies. AB - The types of 59 isolates of adenovirus (Adv) which were isolated between winter, 1984 and spring, 1986 were identified by type-specific monoclonal antibodies (McAb) against Adv types 3 and 7. The results showed that the method could not only identify the types of Adv, but also discover the changes of their subtypes with time. The tedious neutralization test can be replaced by this simple method. PMID- 2517625 TI - [Opportunistic infection and systemic dissemination in burns]. AB - A total of 303 strains of opportunistic bacteria were isolated from our burned patients during April, 1980 to December, 1987. Among which Pseudomonas aeruginosa accounted for 161 strains (54.1%), Serratia accounted for 56 strains (18.5%), just the two species accounted for 72.6% in total. Among twenty commonly used antibiotics, Amikacin and Polymyxin-B were comparatively sensitive. Further reviewing the drug sensitivity of the two species, we found the sensitivity rates were variable among the strains isolated from different sources. To Polymyxin-B, strains isolated from wound surfaces were of 86.1% and 90.7% respectively, from subeschar tissues or visceral organs were of 53.8% and 39.3%, from blood stream were of 44.4% and 40%. It seemed that the drug resistance of the invading organisms was stronger than that of surface ones. It suggested that the Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Serratia play an important role in infection of burned patients. PMID- 2517626 TI - [The effect of enriched branched chain amino acid solution on amino acid metabolism during perioperative total parenteral nutrition support]. AB - A prospective, randomized clinical study was performed in patients underwent subtotal gastrectomy or hemicolectomy. Patients were randomly divided into two groups receiving standard amino acid solution (23% BCAA) or a solution enriched with branched chain amino acid (41% BCAA). Preoperative postprandial plasma amino acid levels were used as base line. The amino acid concentrations in plasma between control group (A) and study group (B) were compared during perioperative period. The dynamics of postoperative plasma amino acid profile of the two groups were similar except that plasma BCAA concentrations were very high in group B. In both groups, the levels of plasma glutamine, alanine, tyrosine, lysine, threonine, arginine, asparagine, and cystine decreased, whereas the levels of plasma methionine, phenylalanine, and tryptophan increased. The solution of 41% BCAA was not found to be superior to standard 23% BCAA in normalizing the disorder of plasma amino acid spectrum during the period of TPN support. The differences of urinary amino acid excretion including 3-MHIS and nitrogen balance between the two groups were not statistically significant. Also the results showed more severe disorder of plasma amino acid profile caused by 41% BCAA solution than by standard solution of 23% BCAA. PMID- 2517627 TI - Oxicams: metabolic disposition in man and animals. PMID- 2517628 TI - G-protein-linked signal transduction systems control development in Dictyostelium. AB - G-protein-linked cAMP receptors play an essential role in Dictyostelium development. The cAMP receptors are proposed to have seven transmembrane domains and a cytoplasmic C-terminal region. Overexpression of the receptor in cells, when the endogenous receptor is not present, results in a 10- to 50-fold increase in cAMP-binding sites. Antisense cell lines, which lack cAMP receptors, do not enter the developmental program. Ligand-induced phosphorylation is proposed to occur on serine and threonine residues in the receptor C-terminus. The kinetics of receptor phosphorylation and dephosphorylation correlate closely with the shift of receptor mobility and the adaptation of several cAMP-induced responses. Two alpha-subunits, G-alpha-1 and G-alpha-2, have been cloned and specific antisera developed against each. Both subunits are expressed as multiple RNAs with different developmental time courses. The mutant Frigid A has a functional defect in G-alpha-2 which prevents it from entering development. We propose that G-protein-linked receptor systems will be a major component in the development of many organisms. PMID- 2517629 TI - [A new lining material, B-tricalcium phosphate MG substitute]. AB - Powder of not-sintered beta-tricalcium phosphate granules was used as capping material in deep cavities of monkey and human teeth. The authors have demonstrated by SEM with E-DAX the dispersion of beta-TCP in the dentinal tubules and in predentin. Histological sections didn't show any inflammation or degeneration of the pulp. PMID- 2517630 TI - The ontogenesis of lithium-induced effects on suckling: inhibition and facilitation. AB - The ontogenesis of the effect of lithium on suckling behavior was assessed by administering lithium carbonate directly and acutely to 15-, 20-, 30-, and 35-day old rat pups. Lithium significantly interfered with nipple attachment in 15-day old rat pups in a dose-dependent pattern, but it facilitated attachment at some doses (40, 60, 80 mg/kg) in weanling-age rat pups. Furthermore, lithium pretreatment reversed quipazine-induced interference of attachment in weanling age rats. These effects are similar to those previously reported with serotonergic antagonists, suggesting a similar mechanism, perhaps via the inositol phosphate second messenger system. PMID- 2517631 TI - The chemotactic properties of cartilage glycosaminoglycans for polymorphonuclear neutrophils. AB - Cartilage breakdown products have been tested for their effects on the locomotion of rat polymorphonuclear neutrophils in vitro. Chondroitin sulphate, keratan sulphate and hyaluronic acid were used in checkerboard migration assays to differentiate chemotaxis from chemokinesis. All test substances showed both chemokinetic and chemotactic activities. The same substances were then injected intradermally to determine their effects on vascular permeability and leukocyte accumulation in vivo. There was no significant effect on vascular permeability 30 minutes after injection as measured by a dye-leakage method. Histological examination of skin sections taken 6 hours after injection showed modest accumulations of polymorphonuclear neutrophils. It is suggested that cartilage breakdown products may account for the persistence of polymorphonuclear neutrophils in some chronic inflammatory joint diseases. PMID- 2517633 TI - The elusive posterior palatal seal. How to recognize, establish & preserve it. PMID- 2517635 TI - Cloning and sequencing of the gerD gene of Bacillus subtilis. AB - A Tn917 insertion in the same region of the chromosome as gerD gave rise to a mutant (ger-97) with a germination phenotype similar to that of two gerD mutants which germinate abnormally in a range of germinants. The insertion and two gerD mutations were cotransformed with ribosomal protein genes rpoB, rpsE and rpsI. DNA cloned from one side of the insertion carried the 16S end of the ribosomal RNA operon rrnI. These data were consistent with the order rpoB-rpsE-rpsI gerD/ger-97::Tn917-rrnI. Insertion into the wild-type chromosome of a plasmid carrying DNA adjacent to the insertion permitted the recovery of a 1.8 kb fragment of DNA which complemented ger-97::Tn917 and the gerD mutations. The DNA nucleotide sequence of the region of this fragment at which Tn917 had inserted revealed a 555 bp open reading frame, preceded by a ribosome-binding site and potential sigma E and sigma A promoter regions and encoding a predicted polypeptide of 21,117 Da. This polypeptide was largely hydrophilic but contained a hydrophobic region at the N-terminus resembling a signal peptide. PMID- 2517632 TI - "Don't forget to brush your teeth!". PMID- 2517634 TI - Apolipoproteins A-I and B in non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. AB - In recent years apolipoproteins A-I and B examinations have been performed on patients with coronary artery disease as a better predictor of the severity of atherosclerosis. In the present study, 21 treated male and 22 treated female patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) were examined and compared with controls of the same sex, age and body mass (23 males, 21 females). Cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL-cholesterol in male and female patients with NIDDM were significantly higher than in male and female controls. HDL-cholesterol in male and female patients with NIDDM was not different from those of male and female controls. Apolipoproteins A-I and B in male and female patients with NIDDM were higher than in male and female controls. [Apolipoproteins A-I (g/L) male 1.40 +/- 0.21 vs 1.25 +/- 0.15, p less than 0.005; female 1.56 +/- 0.23 vs 1.42 +/- 0.24, p less than 0.025. Apolipoproteins B (g/L) male 1.29 +/- 0.30 vs 0.97 +/- 0.22, p less than 0.001; female 1.34 +/- 0.34 vs 0.98 +/- 0.35, p less than 0.001.] Discrepancy between the higher apolipoprotein A-I and the normal HDL cholesterol in in NIDDM supports the theory of altered composition of HDL particles in diabetic patients. The controversy between the higher apolipoprotein A-I and the higher incidence of atherosclerosis in patients with NIDDM makes the clinical usefulness of this laboratory measurement doubtful in these patients. PMID- 2517636 TI - Effect of bicarbonate on the growth of Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans in anaerobic fructose-limited chemostat culture. AB - The effect of bicarbonate on the growth and product formation by a periodontopathic bacterium, Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, was examined in an anaerobic chemostat culture with fructose as the limiting nutrient. The chemostat cultures were run at dilution rates between 0.04 and 0.25 h-1 and the maximum growth yield (Ymax fructose) was estimated to be 40.3 and 61.7 g dry wt (mol fructose)-1 in the absence and presence of bicarbonate, respectively. The major fermentation products in the absence of bicarbonate were formate, acetate, ethanol and succinate, with small amounts of lactate. The addition of bicarbonate to the medium resulted in a marked decrease in ethanol production and in a significant increase in succinate production. Washed cells possessed activity for the cleavage of formate to CO2 and H2, which seemed to play a role in supplying CO2 for the synthesis of succinate in the absence of bicarbonate. The study of enzyme activities in cell-free extracts suggested that fructose was fermented by the Embden-Meyerhof-Parnas pathway. The values of Ymax ATP and the efficiency of ATP generation (ATP-Eff) during fructose catabolism were estimated and higher values were obtained for the culture in the presence of bicarbonate: 20.2 g dry wt (mol ATP)-1 and 3.0 mol ATP (mol fructose)-1, respectively, versus Ymax ATP = 15.1 and ATP-Eff = 2.7 in the absence of bicarbonate. PMID- 2517637 TI - The effect of fructose on collagen glycation. AB - The effect of fructose on the formation of advanced Maillard reaction products which have fluorescence and cross-links was investigated. Type I collagen was added to various concentrations of glucose and fructose which were then incubated at 37 C for 4 weeks. Both the level of furosine and the fluorescence intensity increased in direct proportion to glucose and fructose levels and to the duration of incubation. Incubation with fructose produced less furosine but more intense fluorescence than incubation with glucose. These results suggest that fructose in the polyol pathway plays an important role in the formation of advanced Maillard products. PMID- 2517638 TI - [Sensitivity to cefoperazone (CEFOBID) of microorganisms isolated from diagnostic specimens]. AB - Sensitivity of cephaperasone (CEFOBID) of 966 straits of microorganisms, isolated from 661 patients was assessed. The study was carried out according to the trial described by Bauer et al, using the Mueller-Hinton medium and original cephaperasone tests (Pfizer). Full sensitivity was found in 87.1% of the organisms. The following conclusions were made: 1. Most isolated organisms were sensitivite to cephaperasone (87.1%); E. coli (98.5%), Kl. Pneumoniae (94.8%), Atrobacter (93.1%), Enterobacter (92.8%), Klebsiella sp (92.5%). Lowered sensitivity was seen in Pseudomonas sp. (70.9%), Acinobacter (70.8%) and Alcaligenes (58.3%). 2. Cross-resistance with other cephalosporines was found in 27.8% of the cases. In 52.4% full sensitivity to cephaperasone was found, and resistance to other clinically used cephalosporines. PMID- 2517640 TI - [Reduction of intra- and post-operative bleeding after treatment with a peptide fraction derived from bovine factor VIII]. AB - The most common post-operative complication of adenotonsillectomy is an excessive bleeding. This problem persists although the laboratory investigations may exclude hemocoagulative anomalies and the anamnesis is able to show the presence or not of genetic factors or constitutional disease. Even if the surgical operation is performed in a technical proper way, the risk of bleeding is still present. Therefore we have valued new prospects of application in pediatric O.R.L. of a peptide fraction from bovine factor VIII. This compound has proved to be able to reduce the bleeding time. We valued the action of this drug compared with that of tranexamic acid and in comparison with the results obtained before treatment. Furthermore, we have also investigated the possibility of influence of this drug on haemocoagulative parameters and we have concluded that the drug does not show any effect on them. PMID- 2517639 TI - [Treatment of hemophilia in children]. AB - Thanks to recent developments and evolution in prenatal diagnosis and early onset within the first year of life, hemophilia may now be considered a pathology of primarily pediatric interest. The treatment of hemophilia in children has furthermore undergone a number of changes that include 2 main events in therapy that have served to modify the quality of life of the hemophiliac. The first of these events regards blood products and the prevention of viral infections, hepatitis and HIV transmission. Prevention is based on various factors which include: donor selection, immunization, product testing and heat treatment of blood products. The second extremely important aspect of treatment in hemophilia is the concept of global assistance, which includes: the treatment of the bleeding episode itself, and an ongoing psycho-social support system. In this paper we suggest some practical treatment schedules for the therapy of bleeding episodes in addition to examining the severe side effects of HIV and Hepatitis viruses. The message which our paper attempts to transmit is that the hemophilic child must be ideally assisted in an exclusively pediatric environment. PMID- 2517642 TI - [HIV virus infection in dental practice]. AB - The Authors propose a revision of the most recently literature on the Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), by stopping on ethiologic aspects and on the transmission modalities of HIV virus for the purpose to observe some precautional normes adoptable in odontoiatric practise. PMID- 2517641 TI - [Deciduous dentition and orthognathodontic prevention 1]. PMID- 2517643 TI - [Communication: how it can and should be approached]. PMID- 2517644 TI - [Survey of a Molise school population]. AB - The Authors present the conclusive data of an epidemiologic research conducted into th school population of Oratino, a little village in Molise. The incidence of the caries is very high, with def and DMF indexes that exceed th values referred in similar researches. On th contrary, in the various communities taken as samples, the curves of development of the caries, are noticeably similar, as regard to the age. PMID- 2517645 TI - [Analysis of industrial products: toothbrushes. 1]. PMID- 2517646 TI - [Deciduous dentition and orthognathodontic prevention. 2]. AB - One of the main factors in the prevention of malocclusion is the preservation of healthy primary dentition until the time of normal shedding. By this contribution the Authors describe the restorative procedures and the pulp and canal treatments to be applied in deciduous dentition as well as the clinical and therapeutic problems connected with the early loss and the abnormal persistence of deciduous teeth. These therapeutic measures, in addition to caries prevention, have a very important role in the promotion of the normal development of occlusion. PMID- 2517647 TI - [Removable plate in a case of loss of the incisor group]. PMID- 2517648 TI - [Prevention intervention in a Milan school situation]. AB - The authors refer an epidemiological survey about caries and periodontal conditions of school children of some schools of the city of Milan and prevention program that will take place in the school investigated. The data presented are the starting situation of a longitudinal intervention in the committee. PMID- 2517649 TI - [Initial preparation for periodontal therapy]. AB - The purpose of the present investigation was to test concept that initial treatment is effectual to maintain gingival health. The principal local aging factor is represented by plaque accumulation and gingival inflammation. The results of this study have proved that initial treatment is effectual only on pockets measuring less than 4 mm to periodontal probing. Instead a surgical periodontal treatment is requested and more indicated on pocket depths measuring about or more than 6 mm to periodontal probing. PMID- 2517650 TI - Effect of a prolonged protein-free diet on cell size, protein synthesis and degradation of rat liver. AB - Rats were fed a protein-free diet. After 9 weeks the animals' weight decreased to about 50% of the original. The liver weight was also decreased to about half, and most interestingly the average size of the liver cells was reduced about 50%. Liver protein synthesis was approximately 75% of controls tested in an "in vitro" system. Polysomes were found disaggregated in livers of rats on protein-free diet. This was not due to a reduced content or translatability of mRNA. eIF-2 partially purified from livers of rats on protein-free diet had the same activity as that from controls. The decrease of ATP, ADP and AMP in livers of rats on protein-free diet (19%, 42% and 58% respectively) may be responsible for the decreased rate of initiation of protein synthesis. Proteolysis in liver cytosol from rats on protein-free diet was 50% higher than in controls mostly due to lysosomal proteolysis. PMID- 2517651 TI - Influence of ions on the structure of water under conditions far away from equilibrium. AB - The paper deals with the influence of electrolytes on the structure temperature of water. The variations in water structure have been investigated by the method of the states spectra of water, i.e. by the distribution function of the wetting angle of water drops, which evaporate under constant conditions. Some results have been obtained about the mechanism of the action of ions, stabilizing and breaking the water structure, on the stable states in the latter under conditions far away from equilibrium. PMID- 2517652 TI - Translational motion of hydration water on protein surface. AB - In the study of the role of the hydration water in the structure and function of biosystems, one of the major problems is the investigation of the dynamics of hydration water. For this purpose, many papers were reported about relaxation measurements of hydration water by 1HNMR. Most of them were concerned with rotational motion of hydration water. There were few papers dealing with translational motion of hydration water in rigid systems, such as unfrozen water and bound water of protein. The spin-echo or pulse gradient methods are useless in the study of such systems, whereas the self-diffusion coefficient D, the index of translational motion, can be estimated by the spin-locking method. This report is concerned with the study of the translational motion of unfrozen and bound water of solution and powder of protein, respectively, and the measuring of the values of D by spin-locking using of 1HNMR. The coefficient can be obtained by measuring the relaxation time T1 varying the locking power w1. For hydration monolayer in protein solution at -35 degrees C, D values of 10(-9)-10(-10) cm2/sec, and for monolayer in protein powder at room temperature, D values of 10( 10)-10(-11) cm2/sec were obtained. By heat denaturation of the protein, the values were slightly altered, though the rotational motion revealed by T1 measurement appeared not so affected. This difference might derive from the alteration of the protein surface by the unfolding of protein molecule due to the denaturation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2517653 TI - Saturable, sodium-induced release of potassium in the muscle exposed to glycerol. AB - Investigating the kinetics of K+ efflux, two K+ fractions were found in the muscle exposed to 5.8 M glycerol solution at -12 degrees C. The minor K+ fraction was exchangeable with Na+. The amount of released K+ ions being in the K+/Na+ ion exchange was saturable with increase in the concentration of Na+ ion in the medium. It was 11 mmol K+/kg wet wt., which corresponds to the magnitude of the "medium" K+ fraction found by A. S. Troshin in the muscle by means of isotope technique. The minor K+ fraction was temperature and ouabain dependent. K+ fraction with similar features was found by W. Negendank in human lymphocytes, however, its magnitude was 120 mmol K+/kg w.wt. The ratio of the two magnitudes is equal to the ratio of the total cell surface of the muscle and the lymphocyte of one kg. From this fact, it can be concluded that the 11 mmol K+/kg fraction exchangeable with Na+ is bound directly to the cell membrane or to an unidentified structure near to the membrane surface. The preference of K+ binding at higher temperature is interpreted by the assumption that both K+ and Na+ bind to the binding sites of the 11 mmol/kg fraction with their hydration shells. PMID- 2517654 TI - Dynamics and compartmentation of water in certain biosystems. AB - Investigation performed by nuclear magnetic resonance and by deuteration on the dynamics of water molecules in mammalian blood cells and in amphibian oocytes, muscles and nerves allowed to reveal several populations of cell water molecules. Following up relaxation and exchange processes in cell suspensions, packed cell pellets and in isolated tissues, characteristics of water dynamics and compartmentation in various biosystems are compared. PMID- 2517655 TI - On mechanisms of water nuclear magnetic relaxation in protein solutions. AB - To describe water nuclear magnetic relaxation in protein solutions a new modification of two-state model has been advanced. It is assumed that the hydration water molecules take part in two type rotation motions: fast anisotropic and slow isotropic ones, each of them can be characterized by a single correlation time. A transition of water molecule from bound state into bulk water is considered as defect arousing and is described by defect diffusion model. The model advanced allows one to describe both frequency and temperature dependences of water spin-lattice relaxation times in protein solutions and to get an information on microdynamic parameters of hydration water molecules such as life time, fraction, hindrance of local motion, etc. PMID- 2517656 TI - Influence of drugs and ionic gradients on gastric secretory epithelium in vitro. AB - The first part of the paper is devoted to the description of the data acquisition system for studies on epithelial membranes using a process-control computer ECAROM connected to the usual two half-chambers device for epithelial transport studies in vitro. The second part presented the results obtained in several types of experiments concerning the effect of drugs (histamine, acetazolamide) and ionic gradients (K+, Cl-, H+) on the potential difference and/or acid secretion rate. PMID- 2517658 TI - Interface convection in water as a primary mechanism of millimeter waves irradiation effects. PMID- 2517657 TI - Hydration forces involved in cellular interactions. AB - Cellular physical interactions are determinant in many and various biological processes: aggregation, adhesion, segregation, contact inhibition, fusion, etc. A real advance concerning the understanding of cellular interactions from a physical point of view has been performed of late, but a great many problems still remain to be clarified. Thus, DLVO theory extrapolated to cell-cell interactions, is unable to describe cellular interactions at very short distances of separation, where other forces play an important role. A sketch of the original form of DLVO theory, its criticism along with the nature and mechanism of the short range repulsive forces (hydration forces) are presented and discussed. PMID- 2517659 TI - Water clusters and polyhydrates of nucleotide bases at low temperatures. Mass spectrometric data. PMID- 2517660 TI - Surface complexes of xanthophyll films with transition metal ions. AB - Compression isotherms of astaxanthin (AX; 3,3'-dihydroxy-4,4'-dioxo-beta carotene) monolayers, recorded at the air/water interface show, on the one hand, the collapse pressure to depend on the subphase pH, indicating the ionisation of AX at high pH values, and on the other hand, the subphase Co2+ ions to have a condensing effect upon the monolayer and to entail the increase of its collapse pressure. The latter effects are assigned to surface complex formation. The interfacial tension at the benzene/water interface (the benzene phase containing AX, the water phase Co2+ ions) exhibit a maximum at a molar ratio AX: Co of about 3.6, pleading for the formation of relatively stable Co(AX)4 type interfacial complex. Geometric model and ligand field considerations show besides the dative type sigma-bond formation, the possibility of both dative and retrodative type pi bond formation between Co2+ and the AX ligands. Under the working conditions used, the formation of a neutral non-electrolyte type complex of the composition [Co(LH)2L2] is postulated, where LH stands for the neutral AX molecule, L- for its anion. PMID- 2517661 TI - Bioelectrical conversion in sensors with living cells. AB - Bacterial metabolism can drive various processes with biotechnological significance, like in the case of biosensors for probing organic compounds, or in biofuel cells. Here we present some of our results connected with the construction of a bacterial electrode with Pseudomonas sp. for probing glucose in body fluids, and those related to biofuel cells with anaerobic bacteria (Clostridium sp.). The output of the bioselective electrode linearly indicates glucose concentrations in the 2.5 x 10(-5)-1.25 x 10(-4) M domain, with a sensitivity limit of 10(-5) M. The time constant is 10 min, and it works for more than ten days. The amperometric response of biofuel cells with Clostridium sp. offers the electrical image of the state of the bacterial culture itself, thus being a promising tool for the automated control of the bacterial suspensions used in fermentative reactors. PMID- 2517662 TI - Root parenchyma cells in water transport. AB - In experiments with the "sleeves" and the whole roots of Zea mays seedings, the idea of the complicated nature of root pressure and an active part of parenchyma cells in water pumping by roots has been confirmed. It has been shown that root pumping activity is summarized by two, principally different constituents- metabolic and osmotic. The metabolic constituent functions exclusively at the expense of the parenchyma cells activity. PMID- 2517663 TI - [Diagnosis of tuberculous pleurisy in cultures of prepared and unprepared pathologic material]. AB - During four years in our laboratory work a small number of bacteriologically confirmed tuberculous pleurises was observed. By different procedure of inoculation of Lowenstein-Jensen medium the greater number of clinical diagnosis was confirmed. To avoid negative influence of the base and the acid on Mycobacterium tuberculosis which could be found in smaller number in pleural punctate, inoculation of the bioptic material was performed directly on medium without prior digestion and decontamination. Our apprehension that by direct inoculation the number of contaminations of media might be increased was not correct. On the contrary, first results in this study reveal that by this procedure a greater number of positive results has been obtained. PMID- 2517664 TI - LIF: a molecule with divergent actions on myeloid leukaemic cells and embryonic stem cells. AB - We have previously characterized, purified and cloned a novel murine and human regulator [leukaemia inhibitory factor, LIF] which induces the differentiation of certain murine and human myeloid leukaemic cells. Recently we have shown that there are specific LIF receptors on murine embryonic stem [ES] and embryonal carcinoma [EC] cells and that purified recombinant LIF can substitute for feeder cells and crude sources of differentiation inhibiting activity [DIA] [such as BRL cell-conditioned medium] in the maintenance of ES cells in a pluripotential state in vitro. Furthermore, ES cells maintained in culture in recombinant LIF for a prolonged period can give rise to germline chimaeric mice. Thus, based on a number of biochemical and biological similarities, it is likely that LIF and DIA are the same molecule. The identification of LIF as a molecule, necessary and sufficient for the maintenance of ES cells in culture, should have a profound impact on the use of these cells for genetic manipulations. PMID- 2517665 TI - Concentrations of FSH are elevated in new-born ewe lambs carrying the Booroola F gene but not in lambs from a prolific Romney strain. AB - Concentrations of FSH were measured in new-born lambs in Booroola Merino x Romney and Booroola Merino flocks where the Booroola F gene was segregating, and in progeny from sires of a prolific strain of Romney sheep. FSH concentrations increased with age and liveweight in Booroola Merino x Romney ewe lambs to reach peak concentrations at 4-6 weeks of age. Significantly higher mean concentrations were recorded in ewe lambs homozygous for the Booroola gene (FF) compared with non-carrier (+ +) ewe lambs. Concentrations in heterozygous (F+) ewe lambs were intermediate. Maximum differences between the genotypes were recorded at 6 weeks of age. Significantly higher FSH concentrations were also recorded in F-gene carrier female lambs when compared to non-carriers in two other flocks. FSH concentrations remained low in ram lambs up to 12 weeks of age, and there were no differences between Booroola genotypes. The progeny of one ram from the prolific Romney family had high ovulation rates at 18 months of age. The progeny of other related rams showed no increase in ovulation rates at 18 months of age. Concentrations of FSH in the high-ovulation-rate progeny at 3 and 5 weeks of age did not differ from those in the low-ovulation-rate progeny, but were lower than those in the progeny of an FF Booroola Merino x Romney ram. These results support the hypothesis that neonatal concentrations of FSH are higher in lambs carrying the Booroola F gene, but not in all prolific strains since high FSH concentrations were not recorded in daughters from a prolific Romney flock.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2517667 TI - Increase in ovulation rate in Merino ewes after active immunization with inhibin preparations obtained by immunoaffinity chromatography. AB - Ewes were immunized with four inhibin preparations of increasing purity obtained from bovine follicular fluid by affinity chromatography. The two purest immunogens, which had 69 and 174 ng inhibin micrograms-1 protein (expressed in terms of 32 kDa ovine inhibin), increased ovulation rate by 240 and 320% respectively following two injections, and gave a transient increase in plasma FSH concentration at the same time. Plasma antibodies recognizing native 125I-31 kDa bovine inhibin appeared at the same time, and, together with the increased ovulation rate, persisted after the injections ceased. Ovulation rate and antibody titres were raised by the less pure immunogens, but to a smaller extent, and the increases did not persist. It was concluded that the increased ovulation rate was due to induced inhibin antibodies, acting at least in part through the consequent rise in plasma FSH concentration. PMID- 2517666 TI - Intestinal lactase (beta-galactosidase) and other disaccharidase activities of suckling and adult common brushtail possums, Trichosurus vulpecula (Marsupialia:Phalangeridae). AB - Small-intestinal disaccharidase activities of eight suckling T. vulpecula, aged from 34 to 150 days, and of two adult animals were investigated. Intestinal maltase, isomaltase and sucrase activities increased with age, whereas lactase activities decreased. Trehalase activities were relatively high in all animals and showed no obvious age-related changes. Three separate beta-galactosidase activities, one neutral and two acid, acted on lactose. The neutral beta galactosidase activity appeared to be due to a brush border enzyme similar to that of eutherian mammals, whereas the acid beta-galactosidases were soluble and probably of lysosomal origin. One of these, acid beta-galactosidase-1, had similar properties to the sole intestinal beta-galactosidase of macropodid marsupials, whereas the other, acid beta-galactosidase-2, has not previously been described. Galactosyl oligosaccharides isolated from macropodid milk were readily hydrolysed by both acid beta-galactosidases but not by the neutral beta galactosidase. The total intestinal lactase activity in animals aged up to 125 days was due mainly to acid beta-galactosidase-1, whereas in older animals it was due mostly to the neutral beta-galactosidase; this suggests that late in lactation the young T. vulpecula change from a macropodid mode of digestion of galactosyl oligosaccharides to a eutherian mechanism for the digestion of lactose. These findings may have implications for the hand-rearing of orphaned T. vulpecula. PMID- 2517669 TI - [Direct pulp capping from the economic viewpoint]. PMID- 2517668 TI - Oxidative metabolic activity of boar spermatozoa: a system for assessing anti glycolytic activity of potential inhibitors in vitro. AB - The oxidative metabolic capability of mature boar spermatozoa has been determined in vitro. The high rate of oxidation of fructose, glucose, glycerol, glycerol-3 phosphate and lactate to CO2 and the optimization of incubation conditions indicates that these cells could constitute a model system for investigating the anti-glycolytic activity of potential male anti-fertility agents. The effects of several chemical agents on the oxidative metabolism of boar spermatozoa are reported. PMID- 2517670 TI - The pituitary-thyroid regulatory system. PMID- 2517672 TI - Research on the cost effectiveness of early educational intervention: implications for research and policy. PMID- 2517673 TI - Nuclear medicine and cardiology: a comparison between foreign and Italian reality. PMID- 2517671 TI - The arachidonic acid signal system in the thyroid: regulation by thyrotropin and insulin/IGF-I. AB - The present study and the previous report (6) show that the cyclooxygenase path is a primary route of metabolism of arachidonic acid in FRTL-5 rat thyroid cells. The production of PGD2 and PGE2 is an active process in intact cells treated with complete medium including TSH, insulin and 5% calf serum. In contrast, PGF2 alpha and HHT are probably nonenzymatic degradation products of an unstable intermediate, PGH2, since the two compounds are produced and occupy a significant proportion of the cyclooxygenase metabolites only in the homogenate system; this is true in other cells. Although the production of prostaglandins involves three steps, i.e. the release of free arachidonic acid, the production of PGH2 by PGH synthase (cyclooxygenase) and the conversion of PGH2 to various prostaglandins by specific isomerases or synthetases, the first step, the release of free arachidonic acid, has been, until recently, believed to be the sole step important for the regulation of prostaglandin synthesis. This presumption rested on the following observations. Only the free form of arachidonic acid is converted to prostaglandins and the intracellular free arachidonic acid pool is very small compared to the esterified form in phospholipids. The size of the free arachidonic acid pool is regulated by the balance between release from phospholipids by phospholipases and reacylation into phospholipids. When resting cells are stimulated, the release of arachidonic acid and the production of prostaglandins increase concomitantly. The present study shows, however, that all three steps of prostaglandin synthesis are under regulatory control in FRTL-5 rat thyroid cells and that the control is a complex process involving TSH, insulin/IGF-I, and serum. The first step is primarily under the control of TSH. TSH increases the synthesis of arachidonic acid and also, like norepinephrine (5, 6) induces the release of arachidonic acid from the cell by a mechanism involving a pertussis toxin-sensitive G protein. Regulation of the second step can be estimated by measuring cyclooxygenase activity. The present report shows that TSH increases cyclooxygenase activity, presumably by increasing gene expression, but that the TSH effect on cyclooxygenase activity requires insulin/IGF-I or serum. This result is similar to studies showing the effect of TSH and insulin/IGF-I on glycosaminoglycan synthesis, thyroglobulin synthesis, and growth in FRTL-5 thyroid cells.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2517674 TI - Effect of cyclosporin A on carbohydrate metabolism of isolated rat liver cells. AB - Treatment with cyclosporin A may cause hyperglycemia. The mechanisms for this phenomenon are not entirely clear. The effect of cyclosporin A treatment on rat liver phosphoenolpyruvate-carboxykinase and hepatocyte glycogen synthetase and phosphorylase activity was therefore investigated. Glycogen synthetase (total enzyme activity and the active I-form) was elevated in hepatocytes of rats undergoing immunosuppressive treatment with cyclosporin A. Glycogen phosphorylase activity showed no difference compared to hepatocytes from control rats. Activity of phosphoenolpyruvate-carboxykinase in liver homogenates was significantly enhanced after cyclosporin A treatment. Thus, it appears that cyclosporin A treatment stimulates gluconeogenesis, and glucose is used as substrate for glycogen synthesis in vitro. Differences of in vitro and in vivo experiments might be explained by long-term induction of phosphoenolpyruvate-carboxykinase and the short-term effects of cyclosporin A on glycogen synthetase. PMID- 2517676 TI - Phenylalanine and tyrosine metabolism in renal failure: dipeptides as tyrosine source. AB - Several lines of evidence suggest that tyrosine formation is impaired in renal failure. The concentration of tyrosine is decreased and the phenylalanine/tyrosine ratio is increased in plasma and in skeletal muscle cells. After an oral or intravenous load, the rise of plasma phenylalanine is augmented, the clearance is decreased, oxidation is diminished and the corresponding rise of plasma tyrosine level is blunted. Tyrosine elimination and oxidation are not altered in uremia. The defect in tyrosine formation may be especially important in uremic patients on a low protein diet supplemented with tyrosine-free essential amino acid preparations and in subjects on artificial nutritional support. Thus, tyrosine should be regarded as a conditionally essential amino acid in renal failure and should be supplied exogenously, at least in these patient groups. Oral tyrosine supplementation was shown to replete plasma and intracellular pools and improve nitrogen balance in chronic renal failure patients on a low protein diet. However, because of poor solubility in aqueous solutions, tyrosine cannot be included in the free form in amino acid solutions for parenteral nutrition. To circumvent stability or solubility problems, tyrosine containing dipeptides and/or N-acetyl-tyrosine may serve as tyrosine sources for parenteral supply. Renal failure does not affect alanyl-tyrosine hydrolysis, and there is an immediate increase of plasma tyrosine concentration after peptide infusion. Elimination and hydrolysis of glycine-tyrosine is retarded in renal failure, but the clearance exceeds clinically relevant infusion rates. After infusion of N-acetyl-tyrosine, no increase in plasma tyrosine is seen, and the half-life N-acetyl-tyrosine is grossly prolonged in uremia.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2517675 TI - Effects of fish oil rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids on hyperlipidemia of hemodialysis patients. AB - Hemodialysis (HD) patients have a high incidence of hyperlipidemia. Hypertriglyceridemia is the most frequent abnormality encountered. It results mainly from a defect in the degradation of triglycerides. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a fish oil (Max-EPA) rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), such as eicosapantenoic acid (EPA), on lipid abnormalities of hemodialysis patients. Thirteen hyperlipidemic HD patients were investigated (7 males, 6 females; mean age 57 years; mean duration of HD 72 months). None were diabetic or treated with antihypertensive drugs. All patients had hypertriglyceridemia (greater than 200 mg/dl) and an increase (greater than 1) in the ratio of serum apolipoprotein B to serum apolipoprotein A1 (ApoB/ApoA1). They received for one month, 6 g/day of Max-EPA providing 1 g of EPA. After treatment, serum triglyceride levels fell by 38% from 231 +/- 40 (SD) mg/dl to 140 +/- 38 mg/dl (P less than 0.01). Total cholesterol did not change significantly (before therapy 241 +/- 33 mg/dl, after therapy 249 +/- 38 mg/dl). Apolipoprotein A1 levels (116 +/- 17 mg/dl) were not modified after therapy, 117 +/- 11 mg/dl. Apolipoprotein B decreased significantly from 182 +/- 26 mg/dl to 150 +/- 21 mg/dl after treatment (P less than 0.01). The ApoB/ApoA1 ratio showed a significant decrease from 1.56 +/- 0.26 to 1.3 +/- 0.16 after therapy (P less than 0.01). Also, the greatest reductions were found in the patients who had both the highest serum triglyceride levels and the highest ApoB/ApoA1 ratios. No side effects were observed.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2517677 TI - Evidence for a nutritional need for glutamine in catabolic patients. AB - Of the total pool of muscle free intracellular amino acids, glutamine represents about 60%. During catabolic stress, a marked reduction (50%) of this pool occurs; the depletion is not reversible by nutrition or other therapeutical endeavors. Since free glutamine is unstable in solutions, the question is whether maintenance of this pool and improvement of the nitrogen economy is feasible by intravenous provision of synthetic, stable glutamine-containing dipeptides. In vivo studies in man and animals provide firm evidence that a synthetic glutamine containing dipeptide, L-alanyl-L-glutamine (Ala-Gln), is readily hydrolyzed following intravenous administration. The results also indicate a safe and efficient use of Ala-Gln as a source of free glutamine for parenteral nutrition. In clinical studies, nitrogen balance was more positive in catabolic patients receiving a peptide supplemented solution as compared with control patients given isonitrogenous, isoenergetic TPN. Preoperative muscle glutamine concentrations were essentially maintained in the peptide group and markedly decreased in the control group. It is inferred that the increased intestinal requirement of metabolic fuel during catabolic stress is matched by an enhanced demand on muscle glutamine, resulting in intracellular glutamine depletion. Thus, the delivery of adequate amounts of glutamine is essential to maintain the integrity of intestinal mucosa, to preserve the muscle glutamine pool, and to improve overall nitrogen economy during conditions of stress. PMID- 2517678 TI - [Changes in AI, B and E apolipoproteins induced by infusion of lipid emulsions in critical patients]. AB - In 24 critically ill patients HDL, LDL and VLDL values and those of apolipoproteins (apo) AI, B and E were evaluated just before (T0) and after 1 (T1), 3 (T3), 5 (T5) hours of intralipid infusion. Baseline levels of such parameters were compared with those obtained in 26 healthy volunteers. The critically ill patients showed lower values of apo AI and B (p less than 0.001) than control patients. In intensive care unit patients, a close relationship between HDL and apo AI (p less than 0.001) and between LDL and apo B (p less than 0.001) was observed in addition to the evidence of apo B and E interconversion. In fact, these apolipoproteins were always significantly correlated (p less than 0.01 a T0 e T3; p less than 0.001 a T1; p less than 0.05 a T5). The knowledge of the apolipoproteins functions could be important for the understanding and the detection of the negative effects that could follow to the infusion of fat emulsions. PMID- 2517679 TI - [Role of total parenteral nutrition in determining liver insufficiency in patients with cranial injuries. Glucose vs glucose + lipids]. AB - Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) rich in glucose may cause a deposition of triglycerides in the liver with consequent steatosis. We have valued the role of different nutrients in the determinism of liver failure. Sixty-five patients with severe and isolated head trauma (GCS score of 7 or less), 50 men and 15 women, of mean age 28 years (range: 15-68 years) were prospectively studied. All patients have a negative history for liver disease. In 24 randomly selected patients only glucose (group G) was administered as non-protein caloric source, while other 41 patients received glucose and Intralipid 10% (group GL) in ratio 70:30. The global incidence of cholestasis was 52.3% (34 patients): 17 patients (70.8%) of the group G and other 17 patients (41.5%) of the group GL (less than 0.025). No significant differences regarding the day of beginning of the cholestasis, the duration of TPN and the mean caloric and protein supply were pointed out. The liver steatosis was observed in 10 cases: 8/15 (53.3%) of the group G and 2/12 (16.7%) of the group GL (p 0.05). In conclusion, a TPN with glucose plus lipids is least toxic for the liver than only glucose. PMID- 2517680 TI - [Lithium carbonate (Contemnol--Spofa). A clinical study]. AB - The estimation of the present day stage in the therapy with lithium salts allowed the authors some considerations on the mechanisms of action and pharmacodynamics of lithium ion, as well as on the indications and counterindications, side effects and therapeutical management. Thus, the authors have analysed the findings of a simple-blind clinical study on lithium carbonate (Contemnol--Spofa) in a series of 15 inpatients. The research methodology included the thorough examination of the patients, blood lithium screening, psychological investigations and laboratory tests on the basis of an itemized investigation card. The analysis of the results confirmed the efficacy of this substance in bipolar hyperthymic psychosyndromes, depressions and hyperthymic psychosyndromes with dissociative elements, its tolerance and low incidence of side effects. The selection of the cases, the clinical and paraclinical examinations, the observance of the indications and counterindications permit the administration of this substance as a curative and prophylactic treatment, providing the blood lithium is screened and clinical control and biological investigations are carried out. PMID- 2517682 TI - Tuberculous abscess of the brain stem. AB - Three cases of tuberculous abscess of the brain stem were treated with excision of the abscess supplemented with antitubercular therapy for 12 to 18 months. The lesions were frankly purulent and tubercle bacilli were demonstrated in the pus. A computed tomography scan demonstrated the site and extent of the lesion. Two of three patients developed the abscess during the course of antitubercular therapy for associated tubercular lesions. In spite of modern antitubercular treatment the abscess did not resolve and surgical excision had to be employed as a curative treatment. PMID- 2517681 TI - [Zenker's diverticulum]. AB - The Zenker posterior pharyngoesophageal diverticulum results from the posterior herniation of the hypopharyngeal intima near its junction with esophagus. To its occurrence contribute more factors exerted at the level of Leimer's triangle. It has a slow progressive evolution and may thus vary in size from a beam to an apple or even the head of a foetus, determining compressions against the esophagus. The clinical symptoms depend on the evolutive stage. The radiological semiology of the evolutive stages of Zenker diverticulum is discussed and a casuistics with its various radiological aspects is presented. PMID- 2517684 TI - [Amino acid derivatives of 2,6-xylidine and p-aminobenzoic acid. II. Synthesis of derivatives of N-(p-aminobenzoylaminoalkylacyl)-2,6-xylidines and study of their resistance to proteolytic factors]. AB - Syntheses of N-(p-aminobenzoylaminoalkylacyl)-2,6-xylidines are described. The carbodiimide method and the method of mixed anhydrides were employed for the syntheses. Physicochemical properties, yields, data of elementary analysis and IR spectra of eighteen novel compounds are given. Resistance of some obtained compounds to actions of the gastric digestive juice and the intestinal one was tested. PMID- 2517683 TI - [Amino acid derivatives of 2,6 and p-aminobenzoic acid. I. Synthesis of derivatives of 2,6-xylidine and various derivatives of PAB]. AB - Syntheses of amino acid derivatives of p-aminobenzoic acid and 2,6-xylidine, potential antiarrhythmic agents are described. The carbodiimide method and the method of mixed anhydrides were employed for the syntheses. Physicochemical properties, yields, data of elementary analysis, and IR and 1H-NMR spectra of eighteen novel compounds are given. PMID- 2517685 TI - Coronary endothelium is responsive to bradykinin and arachidonate but not to acetylcholine. AB - In preparations of either endothelium-rubbed or intact porcine coronary artery, in which sodium nitroprusside caused a relaxation, acetylcholine did not cause a relaxation but a contraction. Calcium ionophore A23187 and bradykinin elicited a dose-dependent relaxation in preparations with intact endothelium, while the relaxation was abolished by rubbing the endothelium. Bradykinin-induced relaxation was not inhibited by acetylsalicylic acid (10(-4) M), indomethacin (10(-6) M), and combined treatment with phentolamine (10(-6) M) and propranolol (10(-6) M). Arachidonic acid produced an endothelium-dependent contraction, which, at 10(-5) M, was followed by a slowly developing relaxation. Prostaglandin I2 caused a slight relaxation of the artery. In conclusion, endothelial cells of porcine coronary artery respond to bradykinin and A23187, presumably through a release of the endothelium-derived relaxing factor. Vasoconstrictor prostanoid(s) seem(s) to be involved in the arachidonic acid-induced contraction. PMID- 2517687 TI - Glucose determination by differential pulse voltammetry with a platinum electrode. AB - Measurements with differential pulse voltammetry were carried out using an electrocatalytic glucose sensor based on a three-electrode system with a smooth platinum working electrode in a flow-through-type arrangement. The geometric area of the working electrode was 0.5 mm2. The influence of environmental conditions (temperature, pH, pCO2, pO2) was tested using an appropriate parameter set for differential pulse voltammetry (pulse height between -10 and -100 mV, pulse width 40 ms, scan rate 20 mV/s). Also, investigations were conducted in the presence of co-reactants such as urea and some amino acids. Finally, the electrode was tested in human serum. A sequence of anodic and cathodic pulses (duration 1 s; +1150 mV; -950 mV vs. Ag/AgCl) was used as a short rejuvenation cycle (duration 12 s). The signal mostly dependent on glucose was found in the low potential region around 750 mV vs. Ag/AgCl. The calibration curves were nonlinear above a glucose concentration of 12.5 mmol/l. In the linear range, the sensitivity of the electrode was approximately 60 nA/mmol/l for a pulse amplitude of -10 mV; it increased by one order of magnitude at a pulse height of -80 mV. The presence of amino acids caused a decrease of the sensor current to about 35%. Varying their concentration between 50% and 150% of their average physiological values was without any influence on the measuring signal. A variation of the urea concentration between 2 and 10 mmol/l had an effect of about 12% of the magnitude of the glucose dependent sensor current. We found linear relations between cell current, temperature, and pH, respectively.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2517686 TI - Different effects of papaverine, isoprenaline and caffeine on rat uterine contractility in Ca-free medium. AB - The inhibitory effects of papaverine, isoprenaline and caffeine on contractility in rat isolated uterus were studied in Ca-free medium. Uterine contractions were elicited by oxytocin or vanadate and the magnitude of the contractile response was not similar for the two spasmogens, indicating that they act under different intracellular stores. Oxytocin- or vanadate-induced contractile responses were completely relaxed by papaverine, indicating a mechanism less specific than isoprenaline or caffeine. Both of them relax completely the oxytocin-induced contraction and only partially the vanadate-induced contraction. After caffeine treatment, the recovery of the contractile response to oxytocin or vanadate was total, but after isoprenaline treatment the contractile response could not be restored. This suggests that different mechanisms of relaxation of uterine smooth muscle operate for isoprenaline and caffeine. PMID- 2517688 TI - [Slide culture and rapid sensitivity test for tubercle bacillus]. AB - We use the slide culture and direct sensitivity test for tubercle bacillus. The sputum specimens was taken from 479 cases. The positive rates of slide culture method and thick smear were 50.5% and 47.8% respectively. The positive rates from slide culture and modified Loewenstein-Jensen medium were 48.2% and 51.9% respectively. The results of sensitivity test of both methods in 40 cases were quite similar. The slide culture technique is a simple, cheap and very rapid method for sensitivity test, it is particularly useful for treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis patients. PMID- 2517689 TI - [Bronchofiberosocopy for diagnosis of 6 cases of pulmonary schistosomiasis]. AB - Six cases of pulmonary schistosomiasis diagnosed by bronchofiberoscopic examination and biopsy are reported. It was 1.5% in patients biopsied in 1984 1986. All cases come into contact with infected water, and 4 cases suffered from schistosomiasis. The chief symptoms were cough, productive cough and slight hemoptysis. The objective finding showed red swollen, ulcer and miliary nodule in the bronchial mucosa membrane by bronchofiberoscopy observation. Authors discussed chiefly about pathological changes, diagnosis, and demonstrated that bronchofiberoscopy is a new method for diagnosing pulmonary schistosomiasis. PMID- 2517690 TI - [Histological classification of schistosome egg polyp and its clinical significance: an analysis of 272 cases]. AB - 272 cases of schistosome egg polyp collected from the mass-screening for colon carcinoma in Jiashan County have been divided into 3 groups (i.e. fibrous type, mixed type and epithelial hyperplastic type) according to the amount of fibrous stroma. The epithelial hyperplastic type (E type) was characterized by gland elongation, hypertrophy, variation in size, disorder in arrangement and high percentage of atypical hyperplasia (64.9%). Coexistence and transitional change of hyperplastic and adenomatous glands were noticed. By HID/AB staining, sialomucin increased prominently in E type. CEA and PNA receptors by ABC method were detected in 18/20 and 6/20 of E type respectively. The results of mucin expression were similar to those of adenoma. It is likely that the spectrum of E type polyp, atypical hyperplasia and adenoma exists. The authors suggest that patients with E type polyp of schistosome egg, especially those with atypical hyperplasia, should be treated as "risky" population of colon carcinoma. PMID- 2517691 TI - XVI annual meeting on basic research in Chagas' disease. Caxambu, MG, Brazil, 7-9 November 1989. Abstracts. PMID- 2517692 TI - Mechanisms underlying the organizer formation in Bufo arenarum embryos. AB - In the early gastrula of Bufo arenarum the prospective mesoderm was previously identified as a marginal belt of grey cells. To analyze their differentiation capacity explants of these cells were cultured within ectodermal vesicles, in isolation and in combination with vegetal components. When cultured in isolation, dorsal and ventral fragments from the deep marginal zone behaved differently. Whilst ventral explants produced blood cells, dorsal explants failed to differentiate, remaining as masses of yolk-laden cells. On the other hand, both cultures were drastically modified when associated with superficial cells from the blastoporal zone, which caused the following effects: a) Promotion of differentiation in dorsal marginal explants, able now to produce notochordal and somitic structures, in addition to mesenchymatic cells. b) Promotion of dorsalization in ventral marginal explants, which changed their expected destiny developing axial components, similar to those furnished by "activated" dorso marginal explants. On the contrary, combined cultures of animal and vegetal pieces were unable to generate mesodermal structures. These studies suggest that the axial mesoderm, identified as the "organizer", develops from a marginal substrate of genuine mesodermal cells through a dorsalizing inductive stimulus originated in superficial periblastoporal cells. PMID- 2517693 TI - Conference executive summary: priority education messages on the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. PMID- 2517694 TI - Osteoporosis: prevention and the quality of life for older Americans. PMID- 2517697 TI - Technical aspects and clinical interpretation of bone mineral measurements. AB - Four procedures--single photon absorptiometry, dual photon absorptiometry, dual energy radiography, and quantitative computed tomography--allow nontraumatic measurement of bone mineral, with high accuracy and precision, under conditions generally encountered in patient care situations. By using these procedures, almost any part of the skeleton is accessible to such measurements. Total bone is measured by the absorptiometry procedures, trabecular bone by quantitative computed tomography. Several commercial instruments are available for each technique. For clinical use, if decisions are being made based on measurements in a given patient, preferred measurement sites are the spine (for Type I osteoporosis) and hip (for Type II osteoporosis). The newly introduced dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) procedure allows measurements of the spine and hip with the highest precision and accuracy, the lowest radiation dose, and the shortest scanning time. PMID- 2517696 TI - Usefulness of bone mass measurements by photon absorptiometry. AB - We compared three different methods of measuring bone mass for their diagnostic value and their usefulness in follow-up measurements. The three methods were: measurement of (1) bone mineral content in the distal forearm by single photon (125I) absorptiometry, (2) bone mineral content and bone mineral density of the lumbar spine measured by dual photon (153Gd) absorptiometry, and (3) total body bone mineral and total body bone density also measured by dual photon (153Gd) absorptiometry. The diagnostic validity was evaluated from measurements on healthy premenopausal women, and three groups of postmenopausal osteoporotic women (prior forearm fracture (N = 45), prior spine fracture (N = 46), or prior hip fracture (N = 27]. The forearm measurement separated all three osteoporotic groups from the premenopausal women at least as well as the spine measurement. The value of follow-up procedures was estimated using data from a clinical trial on prevention of postmenopausal bone loss by sex hormones. Fewer participants are needed in clinical trials when a forearm scanner is used instead of a spine scanner, because of the better precision of the former. The forearm scanner seems to be the best tool of the three for bone mass measurements, in both clinical practice and for research purposes. PMID- 2517698 TI - Bone mass measurement, fracture risk, and screening for osteoporosis. AB - There is a positive relationship between bone mass and resistance to breaking. Measurements of the spine made by quantitative computed tomography (QCT) and dual photon absorptiometry (DPA) appear to allow a determination of the risk of vertebral compression fracture, although some important confirmatory studies remain to be done. Measurements made in the extremities generally do not allow prediction of vertebral fracture risk. Prediction of hip fracture risk is difficult because of the complex geometry of the femur. The few data which are available suggest that DPA may be useful to predict the risk of femoral neck fracture. If these data can be confirmed, cost-benefit analysis indicates that mass screening for osteoporosis may be a viable strategy. Physicians and patients using bone mass measurement techniques should be aware that these tests can be misleading, and that scrupulous attention to detail is required. Close supervision of the tests by a physician is necessary to ensure that meaningful data are obtained. PMID- 2517695 TI - Risk factors for osteoporosis and associated fractures. AB - Established risk factors for osteoporosis and associated fractures are increasing age, female sex, white race, removal of the ovaries at an early age, prolonged immobility, and prolonged use of corticosteroids. Obesity and use of estrogen replacement therapy are protective. Factors that probably or possibly increase risk in postmenopausal white women include a low calcium intake, cigarette smoking, and, at least for hip fractures, use of long half-life psychotrophic drugs and heavy alcohol consumption. Factors probably or possibly associated with a decreased risk include ingestion of vitamin D and its metabolites, fluoride levels of 2 ppm or more in drinking water, moderate physical activity, pregnancies and breast feeding, use of thiazide diuretics, and progestogens. Some evidence suggests that calcium intake and physical activity at young ages may be important determinants of peak bone mass. Few studies have been undertaken in males and blacks, although at least some risk factors in males may be similar to those in females. Preventive efforts may be aimed at increasing peak bone mass at young ages, preventing bone loss in postmenopausal women, and preventing fractures and their adverse consequences in older people with osteoporosis. PMID- 2517699 TI - The calcium controversy: finding a middle ground between the extremes. AB - Involutional bone loss, and the fracture syndromes that are designated "osteoporosis," are multifactorial phenomena. Gonadal hormone deficiency, inadequate exercise, and a multitude of lifestyle factors are involved in their pathogenesis. Calcium is important during growth, and probably up to about age 35, when peak bone mass is finally achieved. Recent controversy concerning the role of calcium in the middle-aged and elderly, arising out of population studies showing sometimes only weak calcium effects, can be resolved by recognizing the multifactorial character of involutional bone loss, and by careful attention to such details as national differences in habitual calcium intakes. Thus interpreted, metabolic, epidemiologic, and intervention studies are internally consistent, and indicate that inadequate calcium intake also makes an important contribution to involutional bone loss. PMID- 2517700 TI - Factors to consider in the selection of a calcium supplement. AB - Calcium supplements are widely used, yet many questions remain as to the absorption of various calcium salts. Because the solubility of many calcium salts is dependent upon pH, the type of salt used, the condition of the patient, and the time of administration should be considered. Studies show that many calcium supplements on the market today do not meet standards of quality established in the "U.S. Pharmacopeia" (USP). Consumers must be discerning about the products they purchase. Calcium supplements should be taken with meals to ensure solubility. Calcium carbonate, and particularly tribasic calcium phosphate tablets, are not recommended for patients with achlorhydria. Calcium tablets, like almost all drugs, should be taken with 8 ounces of water or other liquid. PMID- 2517701 TI - Is osteoporosis a pediatric disease? Peak bone mass attainment in the adolescent female. AB - Osteoporosis in the elderly woman is determined by the amount of peak bone mass in adolescence, the premenopausal maintenance of such peak bone mass, and the rate of postmenopausal bone mass loss. The majority of research efforts in the past have been directed at defining the pathogenesis and treatment of postmenopausal osteoporotic bone loss. A comparatively new, and potentially fertile, area of research deals with factors responsible for attaining and augmenting peak bone mass in the adolescent female. Determinants of peak bone mass include genetic, nutritional, weight loading (exercise), and environmental factors. Nutritional factors, especially calcium, are potentially most amenable to therapeutic manipulation. Current data suggest that calcium deficiency exists in the adolescent female; and, although the current data are preliminary and not conclusive, they suggest that increasing calcium intake may be of value in increasing peak bone mass. However, assurance of compliance in the teenage female population in increasing calcium intake is difficult; relating a disease of the elderly, such as osteoporosis, to a teenage female population, a population that may experience the disease 40-50 years later, is frequently frustrating. Nevertheless, increased attention must be directed toward increasing calcium intake in this population of females. The amount of bone mass in adolescence may determine the amount of bone mass postmenopausally; a high or low peak bone mass may, therefore, contribute to protection against, or risk of, subsequent fracture. The ultimate target population for osteoporosis prophylaxis may indeed be the young, rather than the elderly, female. PMID- 2517702 TI - The role of exercise in preventing osteoporosis. AB - Evidence from a variety of sources indicates that exercise can increase the mineral content of bone, raising the expectation that exercise programs may be effective therapy for the treatment of osteoporosis, and the prevention of hip and spinal fractures. Indeed, prospective studies demonstrate that primarily weight-bearing exercise prevents the age-related decline in axial skeletal mass and, in some instances, increases bone mineral content. Optimal changes in the skeleton in response to exercise are seen in those women with adequate intake of dietary calcium. Neither hormonal status nor age appears to preclude the skeletal benefits of exercise. The design of an exercise program must consider the physical condition of the participants, their current levels of activity, their compliance, and the objectives of the program. Generic programs that are not designed for individuals' needs and limitations, and that are not adequately supervised, will result in a high rate of musculoskeletal complications and noncompliance. Unfortunately, additional studies are necessary before we can construct an optimum exercise prescription for bone health which addresses duration, frequency, intensity, and type of exercise. Of concern is the fact that gains in bone mass achieved with exercise are lost following their discontinuation in postmenopausal women, underscoring the concept that the level of physical activity is a major and dynamic determinant of skeletal integrity. Thus, it will be necessary to develop strategies to preserve the gains in skeletal mass achieved through exercise. Finally, before exercise can be promoted for bone health, it will be necessary to demonstrate that such programs can indeed prevent osteoporotic fractures. PMID- 2517703 TI - The risks and benefits of long-term estrogen replacement therapy. AB - Estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) for postmenopausal women greatly reduces the risk of osteoporotic fractures, but carries an increased risk of endometrial cancer. This risk can be reduced by the addition of progestin, which does not interfere with the osteoporotic benefit of estrogen. Although long-term use data are few, there is presently little evidence for an increase or decrease in breast cancer risk associated with estrogen by itself (unopposed estrogen), or estrogen plus progestin. In contrast, a large body of evidence suggests that unopposed estrogen significantly reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease; there is no evidence that this benefit will persist when a progestin is added. The preferred method of estrogen replacement therapy, to prevent osteoporosis in a postmenopausal woman with an intact uterus, should be chosen with these different risks and benefits in mind. PMID- 2517704 TI - Alternative strategies for prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis. AB - Osteoporosis is more readily prevented than treated, and early intervention with effective therapy would be expected to reduce significantly the impact of osteoporotic fractures among the aging population. For the postmenopausal female population, estrogen is the cornerstone of therapy, and multiple studies have demonstrated efficacy in reducing cortical and trabecular bone loss in the axial and peripheral skeleton. Alternative strategies for those who cannot, or will not, take estrogen and who can be documented to be at increased risk of osteoporosis, include calcium supplementation, progestogens, (particularly the 19 nortestosterone derivatives), calcitonin, diphosphonates, and anabolic steroids. All have been shown in some populations to reduce the rate of bone loss to a greater or lesser extent, although, overall, the data are as yet inconclusive. All regimes, with the exception of moderate calcium supplementation, have negative aspects to their use currently, and further research is required before a definitive alternative to estrogen for prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis can be recommended. Only estrogens and calcitonin have Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for use in the treatment of osteoporosis. In the decision-making process for the woman at mid-life, risk factor assessment, although a poor quantitative tool for the individual patient, is the starting point for the evaluation of patients. Bone mass measurements play a crucial role in assisting the dubious patient (or physician) about the need for therapy. Estrogen use, however, is a more important issue for the postmenopausal female, with sequelae other than its effects on bone to be considered, including effects on cardiovascular disease, endometrial and breast cancer, which must be considered in the equation of risk-benefit. The greater the risks and costs of the intervention strategies available, the more important effective identification of the target population becomes. Estrogens, however, provide the most effective preventive treatment for osteoporosis. This review will deal primarily with the decision to introduce estrogen treatment, and the efficacy of estrogens,as well as alternative forms of prevention. PMID- 2517706 TI - Treatment of osteoporotic patients. AB - The best approach to treatment of osteoporosis is prevention of bone loss as discussed elsewhere in this volume. However, some currently approved therapeutic agents are helpful in the management of the patient who presents with an osteoporotic fracture. These agents include an adequate calcium intake, estrogen replacement therapy, and administration of calcitonin. A number of experimental therapies are being evaluated, providing hope for improved treatment in the future. These include sodium fluoride, low-dose parathyroid hormone, anabolic steroids, various forms of cyclical therapy, growth hormone, and various bone growth factors. PMID- 2517705 TI - Hormonal therapy in climacteric women: compliance and its socioeconomic impact. AB - Hormonal therapy can effectively enhance the quality of life for postmenopausal women, and prevent climacteric-related conditions such as osteoporosis. Since long-term therapy is often required, compliance becomes an important issue. This can best be achieved by measurement, documenting the reason for hormone therapy, and by repeated measurement, demonstrating a response to the treatment. Case histories documenting this principle are described. PMID- 2517707 TI - Osteoporosis in the older woman: a reappraisal. AB - Osteoporosis is most acutely experienced by the elderly, yet little research has focused on this problem in this group. Recommendations for osteoporosis prevention and treatment in the elderly have been extrapolated from studies of perimenopausal women. However, there are substantial differences between perimenopausal and elderly women in factors related to bone metabolism, rate of bone loss, architecture of remaining bone, the types of fractures sustained, and risk factors for fracture. Finally, unlike the perimenopausal women, the majority of older women already have osteopenia, or bone loss. Each of these factors is reviewed, and its implications for treatment and future research are explored. PMID- 2517708 TI - Patient counseling for osteoporosis prevention. AB - Counseling techniques and methods are more important parameters than message content for ensuring that a desired change in behavior occurs. Knowledge is necessary but not sufficient for behavior change, and teaching should not be confused with learning. The education of patients with osteoporosis poses two problems: patient involvement in deciding whether to initiate treatments such as estrogen replacement therapy, calcium supplements, and weight-bearing exercises, and assuring that the patient adheres to the prescribed regimen. The physician, while adequately outlining the risks of treatments, should also simplify the explanation to assist patients in making a decision about treatment. Guidelines are provided to aid the clinician in this task. Indicators of potential nonadherence should be evaluated, and obstacles to nonadherence removed by suggesting behavior modifications that will ensure the patient's continuation of the prescribed regimen. PMID- 2517710 TI - [6th annual meeting on applied research in Chagas' disease. Uberaba, 2-4 November 1989. Program and abstracts]. PMID- 2517709 TI - The awareness of osteoporosis among health professionals, consumers, and journalists. AB - A survey of physicians, consumers, journalists, and experts on osteoporosis showed that the level of awareness, particularly among consumers and physicians, regarding osteoporosis and calcium supplementation is high. Professionals and consumers alike agree that osteoporosis is a serious disease. Most think that the disease is preventable, although serious. Most women are aware that osteoporosis may begin years before symptoms become evident, and that they may be subject to the disease. Most consumers and professionals believe that the ideal time to begin osteoporosis prevention is adolescence. If prevention does not begin during that age, some physicians suggest that any steps toward prevention taken premenopausally are beneficial. Nearly all of those surveyed believe that calcium as well as exercise helps prevent osteoporosis. Although about 90 percent of the physicians surveyed agreed that estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) alleviates osteoporosis; only 48 percent of postmenopausal women believe that ERT is helpful. The majority of the professionals who responded believe that most women do not get enough calcium in their diets, and that most women do not exercise enough. Although in most instances the consumers responding to this study were slightly less informed about the risks and factors associated with osteoporosis than were the professionals, the opinions of the four groups surveyed were similar for most of the topics discussed. PMID- 2517711 TI - Response of the lower esophageal sphincter to pentagastrin on patients with megaesophagus secondary to Chagas' disease. AB - In 12 patients with moderate chagasic megaesophagus the lower esophageal sphincter pressure was studied under basal conditions and after i. v. infusion of pentagastrin by open tips infused rapid pull through manometry. Pentagastrin was infused in graded doses of 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 and 4.0 micrograms/kg/h. Results were compared with those of 12 healthy controls. Mean basal pressure in the megaesophagus group was significantly higher (p less than 0.05) than in the control group (36.2 +/- 2.5 and 27.4 +/- 1.8 cmH2O, respectively). Following pentagastrin infusion all the values of the lower esophageal sphincter pressure were significantly higher in the chagasic group (p less than 0.05). The plateau was achieved with 0.5 micrograms/kg/h in the control group and with 1.0 micrograms/kg/h in the chagasic group (p less than 0.05). Furthermore, the patients with megaesophagus needed a higher dose of pentagastrin to achieve the maximal contraction. PMID- 2517712 TI - [Chronic hepatitis non-A, non-B hepatitis: a clinical and morphologic study]. AB - Few data on chronic non-A, non-B hepatitis (NANB-CH) have been published so far in our country. We have studied 85 patients classified into four groups: I. post transfusional (PT), 35 patients (41.2%); II. risk group (GR), including health professionals and drug addicts, 11 (12.9%); III. sporadic with a well defined beginning (EBD), 19 (22.4%) and IV. sporadic with ill-defined beginning (END), 20 (23.5%). The mean age in group I was significantly higher than in groups II and III. A polyphasic pattern of serum aminotransferases and severe histological forms were observed in all groups. It is concluded that the way of infection has probably no prognostic importance. PMID- 2517713 TI - [Recombinant alfa interferon in the treatment of chronic B and non-A, non-B hepatitis: preliminary results]. AB - Recombinant alpha-interferon (IFN-R) was given to 17 patients with non-A, non-B chronic hepatitis (NANB-CH) and to 11 patients with B chronic hepatitis (B-CH). Fever (100.4 to 102.2 Fahrenheit) was observed in every patient during the early phase of treatment. Other side-effects included rigors, myalgia, headache and laboratory changes such as leucopenia, neutropenia and, in some cases, thrombocytopenia. However, the tolerance was considered acceptable and treatment had to be interrupted in only one patient presenting generalized mucosal lesions attributed to a hypersensitivity reaction. The response to IFN-R in NANB-CH was considered positive when serum aminotransferase levels became normal or below two times the upper normal limit. Out of eight patients who completed the treatment, four were considered as responders but one of them, treated during five months, showed a relapse after three months. On the other hand, in one patient treated for twelve months, a persistent normalization of serum amino-transferases was observed: a liver biopsy showed a striking decrease of the inflammatory changes. As to the B-CH. 3 out of 8 patients who completed the treatment showed a disappearance of HBeAg and DNA-polymerase and were considered as responders. These preliminary results show that IFN-R is a promising drug but only multicenter controlled trials will establish its value in the treatment of viral chronic hepatitis. PMID- 2517715 TI - [Histocompatibility antigens and Chagas' disease]. PMID- 2517716 TI - Impaired sweating in the diabetic neuropathic foot and its influence on skin flora. AB - Three groups each of 10 subjects, were defined by clinical and neurophysiological studies: diabetic with neuropathy (Group A), diabetic without neuropathy (Group B) and normal control (Group C). Sweating on the foot was quantified and the bacterial flora on the dorsum of the foot and deltoid area were examined. There were no significant differences in type of density of bacterial species found on either foot or deltoid regions between any of the three groups. Diabetics free of clinical infection have a similar skin microbial flora to non-diabetics even when sweating is seriously impaired. It is therefore unlikely that a change in the resident microbial flora is involved in the propensity of diabetic neuropathic patients to foot ulceration and infection. PMID- 2517714 TI - Effect of glycosaminoglycans on calcium oxalate crystal aggregation. AB - We have examined the effect of some glycosaminoglycan species on the aggregation of calcium oxalate monohydrate crystal by means of a Coulter counter. Our results showed that hyaluronic acid stimulated the aggregation at low concentrations but inhibited it at higher concentrations, and that both chondroitin sulfate and heparan sulfate acted as inhibitors. Glycosaminoglycans seem, therefore, to have quite different effects on the calcium oxalate crystal aggregation within their individual range of urinary concentration. PMID- 2517717 TI - Efficacy of endogenous creatinine clearance in diabetic patients. AB - One, 3 and 4-hr creatinine clearance was determined in 47 insulin dependent (type 1) diabetics where urinary creatinine was assayed after spontaneous voiding. These values were compared with calculations of total plasma clearance of 51Chromium-EDTA performed simultaneously which was regarded as a reference method for estimation of GFR. The 1 and 4-hr creatinine clearance showed a weak correlation (p less than 0.01, r = 0.44; p less than 0.01, r = 0.39) to GFR whereas the 3-hr clearance values were not found to be significantly correlated if a kinetic Jaffe reaction was used for determination of creatinine concentrations. If a more specific enzymatic method for creatinine determinations was used all three clearance values showed a correlation to GRF (p less than 0.01) indicating that non-creatinine compounds (e.g., ketone bodies) may interfere in the creatinine assay. None of the methods for determination of clearance however, predicted the GFR determined by the reference method. The serum creatinine concentrations showed a significant negative correlation (p less than 0.001, r values 0.78-0.82) to GFR but was not a reliable indicator of slightly reduced kidney function. The results imply that endogenous creatinine clearance in diabetic subjects is not a sensitive index of GFR. Further, creatinine clearance gives little additional information to that given by S creatinine concentrations. PMID- 2517718 TI - Haemodynamic effect of prazosin during hyperosmolar mannitol load in essential hypertension. AB - The haemodynamic effect of one-week prazosin therapy was investigated in 21 patients with essential hypertension (9 of WHO stage I, 12 of stage II). There was a significant decrease of mean arterial blood pressure (MABP) and total peripheral resistance (TPR) at rest after prazosin therapy in both stage I and II hypertensives. Under the condition of hyperosmolar load (after mannitol infusion), prazosin has no significant influence on the haemodynamics in stage I hypertensives. Contrastingly, in stage II essential hypertension, prazosin increased cardiac index, stroke volume index and decreased MABP and TPR in comparison with the values before therapy and after placebo. Microcirculation in the forearm and thigh muscles was not influenced. The results indicate that prazosin improves subclinical impairment of cardiac function, which is present in stage II and is so an advantageous antihypertensive drug preferable for stages II and higher of the disease. PMID- 2517719 TI - The effect of alpha-tocopherol and Intal on heart capillary bed and lipid peroxide oxidation in experimental necrosis of the rat myocardium. AB - The effect of Intal and alpha-tocopherol on the morphofunctional state of myocardial capillary bed and peroxide oxidation of lipids (POL) was studied in 160 albino rats with coronary artery occlusion. The vascular effect of Intal consisted in increasing the number of functioning capillaries and enlargement of their exchange surface. alpha-tocopherol proved to be less effective in this respect. The authors assume that besides its influence on myocardial microcirculation through POL reduction, Intal supports the increase in the number of functioning capillaries. PMID- 2517720 TI - China's achievements in orthopedics. PMID- 2517721 TI - Clinical analysis of four Chinese hemophiliacs with human immunodeficiency virus infection. AB - Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is now considered as the causative agent of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). A high risk of AIDS has been reported among patients with hemophilia who received lyophilized commercial factor VIII and IX concentrates of American origin. At a prevalent survey from September to December 1985, HIV antibodies were found in all four patients with hemophilia treated with the batch number W87307, 955 I.U. of American commercial factor VIII concentrate supplied by Armour Pharmaceutical Company, USA. One of the sero positive patients developed AIDS-related complex (ARC) and died of cerebral hemorrhage. The other three sero-positive patients had abnormalities in cell mediated immunity. Of them two developed left lumbosacral radiculopathy and hemorrhagic herpes zoster and one remained well so far. PMID- 2517723 TI - Surgical treatment of congenital coronary artery fistula. Report of two cases. AB - Two patients with congenital coronary artery fistula were treated surgically at our hospital in 1987. The fistulae originated from the left coronary artery. One patient was treated by direct ligation and the other by suture from within the left ventricle under cardiopulmonary bypass. The diagnosis and method of surgical treatment were discussed. PMID- 2517722 TI - Preservation of laryngeal function after removal of carcinoma of the pyriform sinus. AB - Since March 1978, conservative laryngopharyngeal surgery has been used in the treatment of carcinoma of the pyriform sinus at this hospital. For pharyngeal reconstruction, cervical skin flap, deltopectoral flap, free microvascular bowel transfer, and pectoralis major myocutaneous flap and gastric pull-up transfer were used. The remaining part of the larynx was repaired with cervical skin flap, sternohyoid myofascia, epiglottis or remnant of epiglottis for complete rehabilitation (phonation, deglutition protection and respiration) or partial rehabilitation (phonation and deglutition protection) of laryngeal functions. 47 patients with carcinoma of the pyriform sinus were treated, and fairly good results were obtained. The 5-year survival rate was 41.7%, and the 3-year survival rate 50%. The laryngeal function restored completely in 31 patients and partially in 16. It is suggested that preservation of the unaffected part of the larynx is feasible both for eradication of tumor and preservation of laryngeal function. PMID- 2517724 TI - Generation and characterization of three monoclonal antibodies to human ovarian epithelial adenocarcinomas. AB - Three murine monoclonal antibodies COCL66-9, COC183A5 and COC183B2 were raised against human epithelial ovarian adenocarcinoma with soluble antigens. The monoclonal antibodies were stable after culture and stored under 80 C for 9 to 20 months. The subclass and titre were all examined and the reactivities were tested on various paraffin embedded tissue sectionism by immunoperoxidase stainings. The results of positive staining against ovarian epithelial adenocarcinoma were 77.7%, 87.2% and 75.6% for COC166-9, COC183A5 and COCL83B2 respectively. Human ovarian carcinoma xenograft in nude mice were radioimaged after 131I-COC183B2 administration. Gamma scintigraphy demonstrated specific localization of the radiolabeled monoclonal antibody on these tumors. The results showed a bright future for immunodiagnosis and immunotherapy. PMID- 2517725 TI - Phagaquosonogram (PASG) diagnosis for cancer of gastric cardia. A preliminary study of 223 patients. AB - Phagaquosonographies (PASG) of 100 normal subjects and 223 patients with cardiac cancer (CC) were analyzed. The apparatus was self-designed and self-manufactured. The wave patterns and the pre-ejection period and other 8 quantitative indices in PASG were compared and patients with CC were found to have abnormal levels (P less than 0.01). The phagaquosonograms in 82 patients with esophageal, gastric or cardias (non-cancer) diseases served as controls. The PASG showed positive results in 97.3%, suspicious in 2.3% and negative in 0.4% of CC cases and 100% negative in the normal subjects. It was 1.2% positive, 8.5% suspicious and 90.3% negative in the esophageal, cardiac or gastric non-cancer diseases. PASG has high sensitivity (97.3%), and typical characteristics (98.8%). It is shown that this method can be used in screening, diagnosis, differential diagnosis and prediction of prognosis of cardiac cancer. PMID- 2517726 TI - Electron radioautographic study of experimental fracture healing. AB - The mitotic activities of various cellular components of callus tissues in different periods after tibial fracture of rat were studied with 3H-thymidine labeling and electron radioautographic method. Silver grains were accumulated over the nuclear areas of mesenchymal cells, monocytes, macrophages, endothelial cells of capillaries, fibroblasts, chondroblasts and chondrocytes, as a result of incorporation of the labelling material during their mitosis. Although osteoblasts and osteocytes could not undergo mitosis, they also revealed silver grains over nuclear areas because of their derivation from the mesenchymal cells or osteogenic cells. PMID- 2517727 TI - A preliminary report on screening for congenital hypothyroidism in newborns with time-resolved fluorescence immunoassay (TR-FIA) of TSH. AB - From November 1986 to September 1987, 27,253 newborns were screened for congenital hypothyroidism (CH) with Time-Resolved Fluoroimmunoassay (TR-FIA) for TSH concentrations in specimens of dried blood spots on filter paper. Specimens were obtained in 12 hospitals by heel pricking of the babies 48-72 hours after birth. The specimens with TSH concentration higher than 20 mu u/ml were retested, and the babies were called back for confirmation of CH by TSH, T3, T4, Tg serum radioimmunoassay etc. and bone-age radiography if the repeated tests were positive. In the present series, 337 specimens were retested (1.23%). Altogether 25 babies were recalled (0.09%) and CH was confirmed in 5 cases, giving a screening incidence of 1:5 450. In addition, one case failed to respond to the recall because of a wrong address. TR-FIA or DELFIA (Pharmacia-LKB) is non radioactive and does no harm to man and the environment, and is thus feasible in ordinary laboratories. The method is sensitive and the results are reproducible, with a precision of 1.4 mu u/ml. Being rapid in terms of measurement time, it is suitable for mass screening. PMID- 2517728 TI - Fibrous cortical defect. Radiologic analysis of 6 cases. AB - Fibrous cortical defect (FCD) is a local disturbance of ossification, more commonly seen in metaphysis of tubular bones of growing children, with predilection site around the knee joint. The roentgenographic appearances of 6 patients with FCD were characterized by an eccentric round or oval-shaped translucent area with lobulated sclerotic border, and the normal surrounding bone. The bony cortex was characterized by a superficially depressed defect which disappeared spontaneously and was labile. Multiple lesions were usually symmetric. Some patients had familial tendency. PMID- 2517729 TI - Experimental study on relative biological effectiveness of tritium and risk estimates of genetic damage. AB - The relative biological effectiveness (RBE) and the genetic effect of tritium internal exposure compared with those of Co-60 gamma rays external exposure are studied in mice. Two different irradiation models are used: 1) irradiation by single intake of tritium, or by Co-60 gamma rays external exposure with gradually decreasing doses simulating the exponential decreasing function of tritium in the mouse body; 2) irradiation by continual intake of tritium, or by Co-60 gamma rays external exposure at constant dose rates. The biological effective end points observed in this study are dominant lethal mutations, dominant skeleton mutations, survival rates of primary oocytes and spermatogonia and chromosome aberrations in spermatocytes. The experimental results show that the RBE values of tritium would be 2.24 to 2.99 in the dose range of 0.02-0.06 Gy/day. The risk estimates of genetic damage from dominant skeleton mutations are 10959/10(6). Gy for tritium beta rays and 3605/10(6). Gy for Co-60 gamma rays. PMID- 2517730 TI - A preliminary study of the inhibiting mechanism of anisodamine on rabbit platelets activated by E. coli endotoxin. AB - In this study, we observed the endotoxin induced platelet aggregation, 5-HT and beta-g releases, cellular cAMP decrease, and also the changes of morphology and membrane fluidity of platelet. These changes play an important role in septic shock, especially in disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) and respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). After anisodamine (654) intervention all the parameters mentioned above were improved to a certain extent. This preliminary study of the inhibiting mechanism of 654 on rabbit platelets activated by ET supports the clinical possibility of using 654 for relieving DIC and RDS. PMID- 2517731 TI - Recent progress in oncology in China. PMID- 2517733 TI - The inhibitory effect of deferoxamine on DNA synthesis in human lymphocytes. AB - As an iron-chelating agent, deferoxamine (DFO) is widely used in treating iron poisoning and disorders of iron overload. This study demonstrates that DFO is a potent S-phase inhibitor of DNA synthesis in human lymphocytes in vitro, and this inhibitory effect of DFO is reversible by adding appropriate amounts of ferric ion. As a nontoxic and selective-S-phase inhibitor, it may play a role in immunosuppression in experimental and therapeutic situations. It may even become an auxiliary therapy for leukemia or other malignant tumors. PMID- 2517732 TI - Calcitonin gene-related peptide in the pathogenesis and treatment of hypertension. AB - The present study demonstrated that the plasma calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) concentration was lower but the CGRP content of abdominal aorta was higher in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) than in normotensive rats (WKY), using specific CGRP radioimmunoassay (P less than 0.01). In eighteen patients with essential hypertension, the concentration of plasma CGRP was also much lower than that of normal subjects, suggesting that a decreased release of arterial CGRP might be a part of the pathogenesis of essential hypertension. In SHR, a significant decrease in blood pressure was found following intravenous injection of 2.5 micrograms/kg of CGRP; similarly, in seven patients with essential hypertension intravenous injection of CGRP (50 micrograms) could induce a significant hypotensive effect. These data suggest that CGRP is a new potential drug for the treatment of essential hypertension. PMID- 2517734 TI - Experimental research on utilization of bioluminescent technique to substitute the current viability count for BCG vaccine. AB - The possibility of using the bioluminescent (BL) technique to substitute the traditional viability count of colony forming units (CFU) of BCG vaccine was investigated. The results showed there is a significant dose-dependent correlation between the concentration of standard adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and ATP BL value. The ultrasonic-chloroform method designed by us yielded the best results. The correlation coefficient values (r) of BL of the liquid and lyophilized vaccine were found to be 0.8 155 and 0.8 484 respectively (P less than 0.05). The coefficient of variation (CV) between the BL value of different lots of ATP obtained was 3.2-4.4%, much lower than that of CFU (CV = 10.4-11.2%). The presence of bacterial clumps within the vaccine had great influence on the bacterial ATP value and on the CFU viability count. 2.8 fg of ATP was found in each CFU formed in the vaccine with clumps, while it was only 0.94 fg in the vaccine without clumps, indicating the superiority of the BL method. The BL method has shown a high sensitivity, good reproducibility and simplicity in handling with quick results and high accuracy. Therefore, we consider that the BL method can be used to substitute the CFU method. PMID- 2517735 TI - Clinical significance of combined antinuclear and anticytoplasmic antibodies detected by immunofluorescence. AB - Anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA) combined with anti-cytoplasmic antibodies (ACA) in 0.6% (n = 43) of 7,121 consecutive patients referred for ANA screening were observed. Homogeneous/cytoplasmic was the most frequently combined ANA/ACA pattern among 6 different indirect immunofluorescent (IF) combinations. Distribution of diseases was similar in patients with ANA/ACA and those controls with ANA alone. However, the ANA/ACA results were often transitory, especially in systemic lupus erythromatosus (SLE). The appearance of transitory ANA/ACA combinations on serial ANA testing may be useful as a serologic marker for SLE. PMID- 2517737 TI - Changes of plasma amino acids in total parenteral nutrition-supported patients with intraabdominal infection. AB - Plasma aminogram changes were prospectively studied in 95 patients with external enteric fistula and intraabdominal infection who were under total parenteral nutrition (TPN) therapy with anfuming 14s. Plasma amino acids and albumin were determined before the administration of TPN, weekly and at the end of the therapy or 2 to 5 days before death of patients. In patients with sepsis and starvation, the aminogram showed remarkably low total free amino acids before TPN therapy. In survivors, free amino acids increased gradually to normal in 2 weeks after use of TPN and in the dead increased rapidly to a significantly high peak at the terminal stage. In both survivors and deceased, phenylalanine level remained high during the study. In response to infection, proline was also elevated but to a lesser degree; the ratio of branched chain amino acid (BCAA) to aromatic amino acid (AAA) was lower than normal and the decrease of arginine was parallel to the severity of infection. We conclude that the ideal amino acid preparation for the starved, septic patients should be high in BCAA and arginine but low in phenylalanine; the administration of inappropriate exogenous amino acids in metabolically decompensated septic patients may bring about more harm than benefit; and in septic patients the persistently elevated level of plasma phenylalanine and proline along with decrease of arginine is a useful prognostic sign. PMID- 2517736 TI - Surgical treatment of 100 patients with W-P-W syndrome. AB - 100 patients with W-P-W syndrome who had repeated attacks of supraventricular tachycardia (200-300 beats per minute) associated with syncope and hypotension were treated surgically. Most of them were refractory to medical treatment. Electrophysiological studies were done before operation and the anomalous conduction pathways (ACPs) were confirmed and localized by epicardial mapping during the operation. Among the 100 patients, 44 were of type B, 29 type A and 27 type A + B. The right ACPs were excised and the left ACPs were injected with alcohol. Four patients died after operation. 96 patients were followed up for an average of 24 months; 38 (90.5%) of 42 type B patients, 23 (82.1%) of 28 type A patients, and 17 (65.4%) of 26 type A + B patients were cured. PMID- 2517738 TI - Neurotropism to tissue specificity in nerve regeneration. Experimental study on sciatic nerves of rat. AB - Using the left sciatic nerves of 44 rats we studied neurotropism in nerve regeneration. The proximal and distal cut ends of the nerves were separately introduced into the ends of a specially designed silastic Y- or cross-shaped tube. Either the distal stump or a cut end of the Achilles tendon was inserted into the other ends of the tube, or was left empty. The distance between the tissue ends, nerve-to-nerve or nerve-to-tendon, was 4 mm. Four weeks later, neurofibers sprung out from the proximal stump and grew towards the distal nerve end instead of the tendon end or the vacant channel of the tube. This finding suggests that neurotropic factors may influence the direction of growth of the newly formed neurofibers. This paper discusses the mechanism of neurotropism, the effect of the distance between the cut ends of the nerve, and the choice of the silastic material. PMID- 2517739 TI - Distribution of juxtaglomerular cells and synthesis and release of renin granules in patients with renal artery stenosis. AB - 100 pieces of renal tissue from 4 patients with renal artery stenosis were studied histologically. Juxtaglomerular cells were found not only in the region close to the glomerulus but also in the proximal 2/3 of the afferent arteriole of the glomerulus, but not in the interlobular arterioles. In the cytoplasm of juxtaglomerular cells, three kinds of granules were found: crystalline granules (immature), the round or ovoid granules (mature), and the lobulated granules (fusion). Renin was synthesized in the rough endoplasmic reticulum and packaged in the Golgi complex. Electron microscopic findings suggested that the secretory microvesicles were produced on the surface of Golgi complex. They fused to form primary crystalline granules, which were enlarged by renin supplied by transportation vesicles and finally formed typical crystalline granules. The mature renin granules (round or ovoid) moved toward the periphery of the cytoplasma. Their limiting membranes on the side toward the basement membrane disintegrated and formed microvesicular bodies passing through the periplasm, and the basement membrane and were discharged into the interstitial matrix. PMID- 2517740 TI - The seminal fluid isoenzyme LDH-X in infertile men. PMID- 2517741 TI - Treatment of hyaline membrane disease by human amniotic fluid surfactant. AB - A case of hyaline membrane disease was treated successfully with pulmonary surfactant (PS) isolated from human amniotic fluid. Dosage was 150 mg phospholipid/kg. The exogenous surfactant was instilled into the airway via a tracheal cannula. Clinical symptoms, PO2 and FiO2 improved evidently 24 hours after administration. L/S ratio and phosphatidylglycerol recovered gradually in aspirates. Lung X-ray film manifested "white lung" before instillation of surfactant and showed a striking improvement 3 days after treatment. The duration of mechanical ventilation was 6 days. During the period of recovery complications of patent ductus arteriosus and bacterial pneumonia developed. However, the patient recovered completely and was discharged 32 days after admission. PMID- 2517742 TI - Parrot breeder's lung: first case report in China. AB - The authors report the first case of parrot breeder's lung in China and the study of its immunology, respiratory physiology, as well as pathology. The main characteristics of this disease are progressive dyspnea after contacting parrots, patchy or reticular shadows in the lower lung fields on chest X-ray, the presence of alveolitis, accompanied by pulmonary interstitial fibrosis as demonstrated in lung biopsy, restrictive or mixed ventilation disorders with reduction of diffusing capacity and lung compliance. The results of specific ring precipitation test and counter immunoelectrophoresis were helpful in diagnosis. The importance of early diagnosis and treatment is also discussed. PMID- 2517743 TI - Immunohistochemical study on differential diagnosis between nasopharyngeal carcinoma and malignant lymphoma. PMID- 2517745 TI - Effects of GLUMA and GLUMA/Scotchbond on in vivo marginal adaptation of a composite resin to dentin. AB - The effect of GLUMA alone or in combination with another dentin adhesive (Scotchbond) was tested in vivo. The light-cured composite restorative resin was applied by one- or two-step application techniques. After a one-month experimental period, the formation of gaps was measured from SEM photomicrographs. All fillings showed gaps along the dentin margins in the four restorative techniques tested. The smallest gaps were found when the GLUMA/Scotchbond bonding was followed by the two-step placement of the composite resin. PMID- 2517744 TI - Bonding stability and shelf life of GLUMA. AB - The long-term bonding stability and shelf life of the two dentin-bonding systems- GLUMA combined with Clearfil New Bond and HEMA combined with Clearfil New Bond- were evaluated by measurement of the tensile bond strength and the wall-to-wall polymerization contraction in the cylindrical dentin cavity. The tensile bond strengths of the two bonding systems did not decrease significantly after the specimens were stored in water at room temperature for a maximum period of 24 weeks. Since the bonding efficiency of the two bonding systems was not affected by the storing of these solutions in a refrigerator for a maximum period of 24 weeks, the shelf life of these agents is considered to be longer than 24 weeks. PMID- 2517746 TI - [3d meeting of the Spanish Society of Public Health and Health Administration. Bilbao, 25-27 October 1989. Abstracts]. PMID- 2517747 TI - [The story as a health education technic for schoolchildren]. AB - Schoolchildren health education should begin as early as possible. The objective of this study is to show that to develop health education early in the lifetime is feasible by using the tale/psychodrama as tool for making class explanations more useful. An intervention study was carried out with all the children attending course level 1 of Basic General Education (BGE) in four schools, two from the city of Granada (urban) and two from two surrounding municipalities (semi-urban). They were randomly divided in two groups in order to compare the efficacy of two different health education interventions on taking care of pets: formal explanations at the classroom vs listen to a tale. Evaluation was assessed by a simple 15 yes/no items questionnaire which was administered before and after the intervention. Both interventions resulted in important improvements of children responses. The tale was clearly better than class formal explanations, the differences being statistically significant for 8 of the questions. We conclude that health education is feasible early in childhood and that tales can be more efficient than class explanations. PMID- 2517748 TI - [Cancer mortality in Madrid, 1980-1984]. AB - In order to assess whether the exclusion of the province of Madrid from the Spanish areas having a high risk of cancer mortality from most locations (1975 1978)--as opposed to what has been observed in other provinces with similar characteristics--has remained in subsequent years, mortality due to malignant tumors in Madrid in 1980-1984 has been studied. Standardized Mortality Ratios (SMR) yielded values less than 100, which were statistically significant for most locations. The magnitude of the SMR observed under the heading "malignant tumor of unspecified location" must be noted, both in men (206,34) and women (189,61). The evolution of this heading as a percentage of total cancer deaths shows that Madrid has values considerably over the national mean, also in men (11,87%) and women (14,83%). The aspects related to the filling of death certificates that could explain a possible distortion of the pattern of cancer mortality in Madrid are discussed. PMID- 2517749 TI - [Democracy and the health care system]. PMID- 2517750 TI - [The reform of primary care in Spain: a pragmatic proposal]. PMID- 2517751 TI - ["Current Contents/Health Services Administration": a way of keeping current in health administration]. PMID- 2517752 TI - [Utilization of hospital emergency services in Andalusia]. PMID- 2517753 TI - Verrucous carcinoma in situ of the bladder, not associated with urinary schistosomiasis. AB - Verrucous carcinoma is a variant of well differentiated squamous cell carcinoma that rarely affects the bladder. The bladder localization of this carcinoma is usually associated with urinary schistosomiasis. In this work we report on a rare case of verrucous carcinoma of the bladder not associated with urinary schistosomiasis. To complete this study, analysis of DNA was carried out on the histologic sections of the tumour. PMID- 2517754 TI - Calculi in female urethral diverticulum. AB - A case of two calculi found in the same urethral diverticulum in a 41-year-old woman with recurrent urinary tract infections is reported. The diagnostic procedures are discussed. PMID- 2517755 TI - Stone formation in a female urethral diverticulum. Review of the literature. AB - A case of stone formation within a female urethral diverticulum is presented together with a brief literature review. Clinical diagnosis may be suspected if a stony hard mass is palpable on the floor of the urethra. The definitive diagnosis depends upon a plain X-ray film and a retrograde positive pressure urethrogram. Surgical excision of the diverticulum together with the calculus is best performed by the vaginal route. PMID- 2517756 TI - [Role of attached gingiva in the extension of gingival inflammation. An experimental study in monkeys]. AB - The purpose of this study was to evaluate the inflammatory response in dento gingival units with or without attached gingiva in monkeys. Two different types of dento-gingival units with or without attached gingiva were established in premolar and first molar areas of three monkeys. In the experimental group, a part of the keratinized gingiva was removed with periodontal scissors following mucoperiosteal flap procedure, while in the control group, sham surgery was performed. After the surgery, plaque control was performed by mechanical tooth cleaning procedures three times a week for 3 months. As baseline examinations, width of the keratinized gingiva, probing pocket depth, position of the gingival margin, and the clinical attachment level were recorded and oral photographs were taken. Following these examinations silk ligatures were placed around the neck of the teeth to induce gingival inflammation in both the experimental and control groups. A soft diet which allowed plaque accumulation on the teeth was given during the experimental periods. The clinical examinations were carried out at 0, 1, 2, 3, 5 and 12 weeks and all monkeys were sacrificed for histological examination. The results obtained were as follows: 1. The use of silk ligature and a soft diet produced moderate to severe gingival inflammation in the monkeys. 2. The degree of gingival inflammation was greater in the experimental group which was characterized by the absence of the attached gingiva. 3. Marked marginal tissue recession with an apical shift of the attachment level was found in the gingival units of the experimental group at 12 weeks. 4. Histologically, a distance between the level of notch on the root surface and the most apical position of epithelial cell was greater in the experimental groups at 5 and 12 weeks, compared with the pre-experimental level. 5. The degree of alveolar bone resorption was higher in the experimental group at 5 and 12 weeks. These results suggest that an attached gingival tissue plays a certain role as a barrier against the extension of gingival inflammation. PMID- 2517757 TI - [Process of regeneration of cementum observed by various fluorescent-labeling methods]. AB - The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of various fluorescent labeling methods on longitudinal information associated with the process of regeneration of cementum after periodontal therapy. Mandibular bilateral premolars and molars in three monkeys were used. Prior to the labeling, experimental periodontitis was surgically produced at the mesial site of each tooth. In four weeks, scaling and root planing were carried out, and time marking was performed by injection of 3 kinds of fluorescent-labeling materials, tetracycline hydrochloride (30 mg/kg), calcein (8 mg/kg), and alizarin complexon (20 mg/kg), intramuscularly. The animals were sacrificed 4 days after the last injection and serial sections without decalcification were prepared. They were examined under a fluorescence microscope and further observed by contact microradiography (CMR) and staining with toluidine blue. According to the observations made by fluorescence microscopy, marked regeneration of the cementum was revealed by each of the 3 labeling agents. Also, the presence of regenerated cementum was supported by the observations by CMR and after toluidine blue staining. In addition, the regeneration of new cementum was shown to start in about 2 weeks after scaling and root planing. Judging from the results of this experiment, the various fluorescent-labeling methods seem to be effective for observing the process of regeneration of cementum. PMID- 2517758 TI - [Stress-generated potential (SGP) on the surface of fluid-filled monkey mandible]. AB - Previous studies have shown that stress generated potential (SGP) with bone deformation caused by orthopedic force have an important role in regulation on bone remodeling. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of the chin cap on bone remodeling by elucidating the characteristics and distribution of SGP at various parts on the mandible. Experiment was carried out using a mandible of macaca irus monkey which was kept in moisture with 0.9% saline. SGP was recorded using Ag-AgCl electrode from the 32 sections on the surface of the mandible. The force (3 kg) was applied to the chin with six load conditions. It simulated the force generated by chin cap. Temporomandibular joints and the soft tissue except masseter muscle were kept intact. The results were summarized as follows. 1. SGP was generated only when the load was applied or removed. No SGP was generated when the load was steady, even the absolute value was large. 2. When the interval between "on" and "off" of the load was shorted, generated SGP with "off" timing decreased, while that with "on" timing unchanged. 3. When the load was applied in the low pull direction under the centric occlusion, rather larger negative SGP was recorded at the chin, posterior sections of mandibular body and inferior border of the mandible. 4. When jaw was in closing position, high pull loading generated larger SGP at the alveolar bone and the mandibular body than that with low pull loading, although their electric sign was the same at each recorded sections. 5. When jaw was in opening position, low pull loading generated larger SGP at the posterior parts of the alveolar bone and the mandibular body than that in closing position. 6. When a bite block was placed between the upper and lower teeth, larger amplitude in SGP was the evidence in all the recorded sections especially around the bite block. 7. SGP recorded at the posterior part of the mandible increased with the sliding of the location of the bite block towards posterior portion. 8. The electric sign and the amplitude in SGP and that of the stress analyzed by a finite element method were similar at the each sections on the mandible. This suggests SGP is related with the stress generated in the bone. The results suggested that effects of chin-cap on the bone remodeling might be dependent on the direction of the load, tooth contact, existence of bite block, and its location. Also dynamic loading was suggested to be more effective. PMID- 2517759 TI - A comparative in vitro study of low pH and enzyme treated immunoglobulin preparation for intravenous use. AB - Three not yet commercially available immunoglobulin preparations, intended for intravenous administration, were tested for their purity, physical integrity and in vitro functional activity. Preparations had been factory treated either at pH 4 and with insolubilized pepsin or at pH 4.25 only. Nephelometry revealed a high degree of isotypic purity (IgG greater than 99%). Gel filtration and SDS-PAGE analysis showed only trace amounts of aggregates and/or contaminants, particularly in one of the pepsin treated preparations. Protein A binding inhibition test and phagocytosis of Candida albicans by normal human polymorphonuclear leukocytes, after opsonization of the yeast with different concentrations of immunoglobulin preparations, showed the functional integrity of both the Fc and F(ab)2 regions in the three IgG preparations. Compared to previously reported methods of preparation which produce structural alterations of the Ig molecule, present data indicate the suitability of preparative methods aimed at preserving the integrity of the Ig molecule. Preparation and storage at pH 4.25 without any other treatment appear to be sufficient to obtain pure, aggregate free and in vitro functionally active Ig preparations. PMID- 2517760 TI - [Supplementation of essential trace elements during total parenteral nutrition- effects on trace element-deficient rats]. AB - Thirty-one male SD rats, six weeks old, were fed a trace element-deficient diet for two weeks and then divided into three groups and maintained for 1 week as follows: group A with total parenteral nutrition (TPN) without supplementation of trace elements, group B with TPN supplemented with the following 5 trace elements ... iron, zinc, copper, manganese and iodine, and group C with a diet free of the above five trace elements. Another group of eight rats was fed a diet supplemented with the above five trace elements for three weeks as a control (group D). Feeding or TPN without supplementation of trace elements evoked microcytic hypochromic anemia and significant decreases in iron concentrations in plasma and tissues (groups A and C). Supplementation of trace elements in the TPN solution showed a tendency to cure anemia and a significant increase in the iron concentration in tibia (group B). Decreases in the zinc or copper concentrations in plasma and tissues during TPN without trace elements were prevented by supplementation of trace elements in the TPN solution (group B). The plasma zinc and copper concentrations correlated well with their levels in liver, kidney and tibia. Manganese deficiency was not recognized in this investigation (groups A and C), though supplementation of trace elements in the TPN solution increased tissue manganese concentration (group B). Feeding or TPN without supplementation of trace elements induced decreases in plasma triiodothyronine and thyroxine (groups A and C). Supplementation of trace elements in the TPN solution showed a tendency to increase plasma thyroxine (group B).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2517761 TI - Anterior-posterior relationships of EEG in photosensitive subjects: coherence and cross-phase-spectral analysis. AB - Coherence and cross-phase-spectral analysis of EEG were applied to photo sensitive subjects to investigate the mechanism of the generalization of photo induced paroxysms. Coherence values were high between frontal (F) and central (C) in resting records and between F-C in EEGs revealing harmonic responses, where the coherence values of F-O (occipital) were also high, and the waves of F preceded those of O. In cases of occipital-localized 3/6 Hz (poly) spike-waves, discharges of O preceded those of F. During the stage of generalized paroxysms, discharges were highly cohered between all electrodes. Discharges of F preceded those of O, and appeared to play as a generator. Two conditions with clinical symptoms had higher frequencies (greater than or equal to 12 Hz) and shorter time lags (less than or equal to 5 msec) than conditions without symptoms. PMID- 2517762 TI - Treatment of pathologic emotionality with thyrotropin-releasing hormone. AB - Thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) has been reported to be effective in some neuropsychiatric diseases. We examined the effect of TRH on the syndrome of pathologic laughing or crying in four patients with multiple cerebral infarction and one with olivo-ponto-cerebellar atrophy (OPCA). We found a marked therapeutic effect of the peptide on pathologic laughing with a slight improvement in ataxia in a patient with OPCA. A marked diminution in frequency of their pathologic crying with TRH was achieved in two patients with multiple cerebral infarction. The two other patients did not respond to TRH. Levodopa was administered to these patients to compare with TRH in therapeutic efficacy on the symptom and was effective in only one of four patients. The concentration of homovanillic acid in cerebrospinal fluid had diminished in two of the four patients. The results suggest that the tripeptide is effective in the control of this syndrome. We discuss the underlying mechanism(s) of the syndrome and the mode(s) of action of TRH. PMID- 2517763 TI - Determination of pharmacodynamics of diazepam by quantitative pharmaco-EEG. AB - The relationship between the quantitative EEG variables and plasma levels after the administration of diazepam (DZ) or N-desmethyldiazepam (synthesized NDDZ) was evaluated by simultaneously measuring the power spectra for EEG with two biological markers and plasma concentrations. After a single DZ administration, the EEG change corresponding to sedation appeared rapidly and showed a short duration. A close relationship was found between these effects and changes in the DZ plasma concentrations. DZ and synthesized NDDZ had the same pharmacodynamic characteristics, but the main metabolic product of DZ (metabolite NDDZ) showed a different pharmacokinetic profile. A multiple administration of DZ or synthesized NDDZ caused some reduction in sedation at the steady-state. These results led to the conclusions that a single administration of DZ causes sedation of a short duration, and the main metabolic product of DZ (metabolite NDDZ) does not seem to contribute to sedation. In addition, the reduction in the pharmacological effect after continuous treatment with DZ depends not on autoinduction or interference, but on acute tolerance or adaptation. PMID- 2517764 TI - A procedure for purifying jack bean urease for clinical use. AB - Urease with a purity meeting the requirements of analytical use was purified from jack bean meal through steps consisting of 20% acetone extraction, heat treatment, acid precipitation, and lyophilization. For extraction of urease, one part of bean meal was mixed with 5 parts of 20% acetone containing 1 mM EDTA and 1 mM 2-mercaptoethanol, and stirred at 20 degrees C for 5 min. Milky substances in the extract were removed by heat treatment. Urease in the clear yellow supernatant was precipitated by adjusting the pH of the solution to 5.4 with citric acid. The acid precipitated urease was neutralized by dissolving in 0.015 M phosphate buffer, pH 8.5 (final pH 6.8 to 7.0) and then lyophilized. By this procedure, the purity of the enzyme was increase 14.7 fold, the recovery of activity was 63%, and the yield was 6.75 g from 1 kg of bean seeds. The specific activity of the preparation was 411 units/mg protein (240 units/mg solid), and the free ammonia content was less than 0.01 microgram per unit. Some other proteins were present in the urease preparation as examined by gel filtration and gradient polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The molecular weight of the enzyme estimated by gel filtration was 480,000. However, two urease activity bands with molecular weight of 230,000 and 480,000 were observed in the polyacrylamide gel electrophoregram. From the result of determination of blood urea nitrogen (BUN), this simple purification procedure could be used for practical preparation of urease from jack bean meal for clinical analysis. PMID- 2517766 TI - [Effect of acute poisoning of rats with carbaryl on transamination reactions with involving pyruvate. III. Supplementary studies of plasma aminotransferases]. AB - Male Wistar rats were poisoned orally with one carbaryl dose 474 mg/kg (1/2 DL50). After 2, 4, 24 and 72 hours from the administration of the insecticide the activity of plasma aminotransferases catalysing the reactions between pyruvate and the following amino acids: asparagine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, isoleucine, lysine and valine was determined. Under physiological conditions these amino acids are not participating in the transamination reactions. The activity of aminotransferases was expressed as the amount of alanine developing during incubation of 1 ml of plasma for 1 hour. Alanine was determined spectrophotometrically after chromatographic separation on paper. The results of the investigations demonstrated that acute poisoning with carbaryl caused the appearance of activity of all studied plasma aminotransferases, except for the enzyme catalysing the reaction between pyruvate and lysine. The activity of the studied aminotransferases appeared as follows: glutamic acid--pyruvate--4 hr; isoleucine--pyruvate--24 and 72 hr; asparagine--pyruvate, aspartic acid--pyruvate and valine--pyruvate--72 hr after intoxication. PMID- 2517765 TI - [The content of lysosomal enzymes in the synovial membrane affected by a rheumatoid process and in the normal orthological one]. AB - The activity of lysosomal hydrolases in biopsy samples of the synovial membrane taken from patients with rheumatoid arthritis gives an idea about the local activity of the process. This agrees with the histological picture of the synovial membrane. It has been established that the enzymatic activity depends on the site of the puncture for taking biopsy material. PMID- 2517767 TI - [Adhesion of 4-META/MMA-TBB resin to enamel treated with EDTA metal ammonium solutions. Effect of Fe.NH4, Co.NH4 and Cu.NH4 salts]. AB - EDTA 3-2 (Fe.NH4), EDTA 3-2 (Co.NH4) and EDTA 3-2 (Cu.NH4) at pH 7.4 were investigated to determine effective pretreatment to promote strong adhesion of 4 META/MMA-TBB resin to enamel with minimum demineralization. EDTA 5-0 (NH4) solution which does not contain a metal salt was also investigated as a control. The amount of Ca2+ demineralized during the pretreatment and the tensile bond strength to enamel were measured. The pretreated enamel surface and the resin surface of the adhesion junction were observed with SEM. When the enamel surface was pretreated with EDTA 3-2 (Fe.NH4) for 60 seconds, the tensile bond strength of the resin to enamel was 7.1 MPa after the thermal cycling test. No direct correlation was observed between the amount of Ca2+ demineralized and the tensile bond strength. The stable and strong bonding to enamel was taken place without strong mechanical retention. PMID- 2517768 TI - [The search for the sexual process or its equivalents in the Trypanosomatidae]. AB - Literary evidence on searching for the sexual process in the life cycles of the trypanosomatids are reviewed. Based on the data provided, a; conclusion is made that the stable well-accepted viewpoint on the absence of any genetic exchanges in these flagellates is to be rejected. However, forms and mechanisms of the discovered phenomena are investigated insignificantly. The results reported in the number of publications suggest the presence of the sexual process, at least, in Trypanosoma brucei. But the existence of other forms of genetic exchanges, both in this and in other species, is also possible. The species problem in the trypanosomatids is discussed. PMID- 2517769 TI - [Changes in the adhesiveness between enterocytes after short-term blastomogenic exposures]. AB - Following short-term local applications of high doses of N-methyl-N-nitrozourea and 7,2-dimethylbenz(a)antracen, the intercellular adhesion in the distal colon epithelium of ice retains increased at least for a month. The magnitude of this shift and its duration ops both with moving away from the area of application, or with reducing the doses of carcinogens to be closely related to the frequency of tumour production in the site of epithelium under chronic local applications of N methyl-N-nitrozourea. After the application of noncarcinogenic methylurea or the subcutaneous injection of 1,2-dimethylhydrazine to the mice resistant to its carcinogenic action the wavy fluctuations of the magnitude of intercellular adhesion disappear within a week. The following conclusion can be drawn from the results: the long-term increase in enterocyte-enterocyte adhesion may be an earlier sign of the colon epithelium reaction to carcinogenic action. PMID- 2517770 TI - Intracranial hemorrhage in the hemophiliacs. AB - Five of 34 hemophiliac children suffered from nine episodes of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) from hemophilia A, and another 3 were B hemophiliacs. Diagnoses were confirmed by computed tomographic scan in all nine episodes. The ages of the patients with ICH ranged from 3 months to 4 1/2 years. The most frequent presenting symptoms were headache and vomiting, followed by focal neurological deficits. Eight of 9 episodes had bleeding in multiple regions. All the patients received immediate replacement therapy had recovered without surgical intervention. The duration of treatment was 10 +/- 2 days. All the patients survived and only one of them had neurological sequela as left hand paresis. From this observation we suggest that the treatment of suspected ICH in hemophiliacs should include prompt replacement therapy for either trauma or neurological symptoms in the absence of trauma history, documentation of ICH by computed tomographic scan, and prolonged replacement therapy and control of increased intracranial pressure in hemophiliacs with documented ICH. PMID- 2517771 TI - [Transmembrane passage of trinitrine and isosorbide dinitrate. Study of natural membranes]. AB - Nitroglycerin pharmacodynamic efficiency is 3 to 4 times higher than isosorbide dinitrate efficiency. Authors put forward that this difference is at least partially pertained to the transmembrane diffusion potential of the molecules. Data of this first study on red cell membranes are in accordance with this hypothesis. PMID- 2517772 TI - [The transmembrane diffusion of trinitrine and isosorbide dinitrate. Study of artificial membranes]. AB - Nitroglycerin pharmacodynamic efficiency is 3 to 4 times higher than isosorbide dinitrate efficiency. Data of this study on physiological and artificial membranes point the greater nitroglycerin transmembrane diffusion, which is discussed as a possible relevant explanation. PMID- 2517773 TI - Mechanism and clinical implications of bond formation for two dentin bonding agents. AB - The mechanism of dentin bonding remains a subject of conjecture. However, sparse evidence is available to support current specific mechanisms for the various systems. Comprehension of the fundamental processes in bonding would encourage a greater appreciation for the critical procedures that ensure clinical success. An SEM study was conducted to examine the mechanism of bonding for two similar dentin bonding systems, Scotchbond 2 and Gluma. For these systems, experimental results support the formation of a mechanical bond resulting from resin infiltration and polymerization within the dentinal matrix. Effective bonding is dependent upon comprehension of the regimented procedures. PMID- 2517774 TI - Adoptive immunotherapy of murine pulmonary metastases with interleukin 2 and interferon-gamma. AB - We examined the activities of activated lymphocytes, interferon-gamma (IFN gamma), and interleukin 2 (IL-2) in adoptive immunotherapy of pulmonary metastases. Pulmonary metastases produced in Balb/c mice by a single tail-vein injection of 5 X 10(5) murine sarcoma (MCB8) tumor cells on day 0 were treated with combinations of Con A-activated lymphocytes (CAL) (3 X 10(7) cells on days 3 and 7), IL-2 (5 X 10(4) U three times a day on days 3 to 8), and IFN-gamma (5 X 10(4) U/mouse on days 1 to 8). Treated tumors contained increased numbers of infiltrating Thy-1.2+ lymphocytes and a predominance of L3T4+(CD4+) lymphocytes. The level of expression of class I and class II MHC antigens by tumor cells in the lung was increased after treatment. Mice that received CAL + IL-2 + IFN-gamma showed approximately 80% reduction in tumor burden as compared to controls (P = 0.001). Mice treated with IL-2 + CAL, or IL-2 + IFN-gamma, displayed approximately 50% reduction (both P less than 0.02 as compared to triple therapy), whereas IL-2, IFN-gamma, or CAL administered as single agents had little effect on pulmonary metastases. We conclude that adoptive immunotherapy with activated lymphocytes and IL-2 is enhanced by IFN-gamma. PMID- 2517775 TI - Physiological regulation of transmembrane signaling elements. PMID- 2517776 TI - Chemotactic response of neutrophils. PMID- 2517778 TI - Interferon-gamma increases alveolar macrophage Ia antigen expression despite oral administration of dexamethasone to rats. AB - Corticosteroids have multiple effects on immune and inflammatory responses and decrease host resistance to a broad range of microorganisms. Resident tissue macrophages have been proposed as a target for the immunosuppressive effects of corticosteroids and are important in host defense against infections. During infection-induced immune responses, macrophages are activated after exposure to interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), and class II major histocompatibility (Ia) antigens on their surface are increased. We investigated the effect of orally administered corticosteroids on alveolar macrophages, the resident macrophages of the lung parenchyma. We hypothesized that corticosteroids would inhibit the activation of alveolar macrophages and measured induction by IFN-gamma of Ia antigens as a marker of cell activation. Alveolar macrophages from normal and corticosteroid treated rats were exposed to recombinant murine IFN-gamma (rMuIFN-gamma) in vitro and assayed for Ia transcription and surface Ia expression. Ia mRNA accumulation was induced in alveolar macrophages from normal and corticosteroid-treated rats after exposure in vitro to rMuIFN-gamma. Furthermore, rMuIFN-gamma increased surface expression of Ia proteins on alveolar macrophages from corticosteroid treated rats, although to a lesser extent than on cells from control rats. Finally, surface Ia expression could also be increased in vivo by exposure of corticosteroid-treated rats to an aerosol containing rMuIFN-gamma. These results demonstrate that administration of oral corticosteroids, while establishing a state of immunosuppression in rats, does not abolish responsiveness of rat alveolar macrophages to rMuIFN-gamma. We speculate that IFN-gamma-induced augmentation of phagocytic cell function may constitute an important therapeutic modality to treat complications of immunodeficiency. PMID- 2517777 TI - Decreased arterial wall prostaglandin production in neonatal calves with severe chronic pulmonary hypertension. AB - Neonatal calves exposed to chronic hypobaric hypoxia develop severe pulmonary hypertension associated with altered vascular reactivity, cellular proliferation, and increased elastin and collagen production. We hypothesized that prostaglandin (PG) production would be decreased in the pulmonary arterial vessel wall of these calves. Further, because of the possibility that the hemodynamic stresses of hypoxic pulmonary hypertension might change along the longitudinal axis of the pulmonary circulation, we measured prostaglandin synthetic capability in tissues isolated from proximal pulmonary artery, distal pulmonary artery, and pulmonary vein. We found that PGI2 production was decreased in both proximal and distal pulmonary artery rings isolated from pulmonary hypertensive calves compared to controls. PGI2 production was greater in distal than in proximal lobar pulmonary artery. In contrast, pulmonary veins from hypertensive calves, which are protected from the hemodynamic stress of pulmonary arterial hypertension, did not demonstrate altered PGI2 production compared to controls. PGE2 production was also decreased in proximal hypertensive pulmonary arterial rings as compared to controls. To determine if this decrease in vessel wall production of prostaglandins was due to changes in cellular prostaglandin production, we studied prostaglandin production by the three major cell types comprising hypertensive and control arteries. Endothelial cells cultured from hypertensive main pulmonary artery produced less PGI2 than did those from control artery, and there appeared to be a shift from PGI2 production to PGE2 production in endothelial cells isolated from hypertensive artery. Explanted advential fibroblasts from hypertensive artery produced less PGE2 than did controls. Smooth muscle cell PGI2 production did not differ between cells isolated from hypertensive and control arteries in these brief 30-min incubations. We conclude that there is a relative deficit in PGI2 and PGE2 production in the pulmonary arteries of calves with hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension and speculate that this contributes to altered vascular tone and vessel remodeling. PMID- 2517779 TI - [Lupus anticoagulant and recurrent transient ischemic attacks]. AB - Lupus anticoagulant (LA) is an immunoglobulin that has been found in association with many diseases and shows an in vitro anticoagulant activity but is clinically associated with thrombosis. We report a patient with a diagnosis of autoimmune disease who developed recurrent transient ischemic attacks; after through investigation of other possible conditions and pathogenetical mechanisms, LA was the only causative factor that was found. We feel that LA should be systematically investigated in cerebrovascular disease, particularly in young patients without other known risk factors, to determine its true incidence and the correct therapeutic approach. PMID- 2517781 TI - Dynamics of dentoalveolar ankylosis and associated root resorption. AB - The present experimental studies in monkeys were undertaken to study the initiation and progression of dentoalveolar ankylosis of replanted teeth and associated root resorption. Maxillary and mandibular lateral incisors were extracted and replanted after an extraoral period of 15 min or 1 h. Teeth with an extraoral period of 1 h were endodontically treated. Half the number of monkeys were given antibiotics at the time of replantation. The observation periods varied from 2 days to 40 weeks. Irrespective of the length of the extraoral period, initial root resorption and minor areas of ankylosis were found 1 week after replantation. The initial ankylosis was not preceded by root resorption. In teeth replanted after an extraoral period of 15 min the ankylotic area did not increase with increasing time after replantation. Instead the periodontal membrane was re-established, separating the root surface from the alveolar bone. In teeth replanted after an extraoral period of 1 h, the initial ankylotic area increased with increasing time after replantation. Eight weeks and more after replantation, most of the periodontal membrane was replaced by bone covered by osteoblasts and occasional osteoblasts that were in continuity with the endosteal cells outlining the marrow spaces of the alveolar bone. The cementum and dentin were then gradually resorbed with increasing time after replantation. Antibiotics given at the time of replantation reduced the initial inflammation in the periodontal membrane and the inflammatory root resorption after all observation periods and it also seemed to some extent to prevent bacteria from entering the necrotic pulp tissue. Based on the present results it is suggested that root resorption associated with dentoalveolar ankylosis is initiated by endosteal osteoblasts and is thus a hormonally regulated process. This is in contrast to inflammatory root resorption, which seems to be triggered by inflammatory cells. PMID- 2517780 TI - The pharmacological profile of CGP 28238, a novel highly potent anti-inflammatory compound. AB - CGP 28238 (6-(2,4-difluorophenoxy)-5-methylsulfonylamino-1-indanone ) exhibits very potent anti-inflammatory activity in rat adjuvant arthritis (ED40 = 0.05 mg/kg, p.o.) and pronounced analgesic and antipyretic activity in acute models in mice and rats (ED50 2-5 mg/kg, p.o.), but has clear advantages over reference NSAIDs with respect to gastro-intestinal tolerability. Threshold doses for gastro intestinal ulcerogenicity in rats after single and repeated (10x) doses were found to be 30 mg/kg, p.o., and prostaglandin (PGE2) production in rat gastric and ileal mucosa was only marginally inhibited (ED50 greater than 30 mg/kg, p.o.). On the other hand, PGE2 production in rat inflammatory exudate and thromboxane synthesis in rat blood were inhibited with ED50 values of less than or equal to 2 mg/kg, p.o. Although CGP28238 does not inhibit cyclooxygenase in bovine seminal vesicle microsomal preparations (IC50 greater than 10(-3) mol/l), potent inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis was shown in various in vitro systems using human and animal cells with IC50 values of less than 10(-6) mol/l. IL-1-stimulated bone resorption and PGE2 production in murine calvarial cultures were inhibited with IC50 values of 3 x 10(-7) and 2 x 10(-8) mol/l, respectively. 5-Lipoxygenase (murine macrophages), phospholipase A2 (human PMN) and phospholipase C (human platelets) were not inhibited. CGP 28238 may represent a novel highly potent anti-inflammatory compound with improved gastro-intestinal safety. PMID- 2517782 TI - Effects of combining Ledermix and calcium hydroxide pastes on the diffusion of corticosteroid and tetracycline through human tooth roots in vitro. AB - A 50:50 mixture of a corticosteroid/antibiotic paste and calcium hydroxide has been used clinically as a root canal dressing agent. This study investigated the effect on the release and diffusion of the corticosteroid and antibiotic components of Ledermix paste when it was mixed with a calcium hydroxide-methyl cellulose paste. The release rates of the trace molecules were lower when the mixture was used compared with release from Ledermix alone. The results indicated that this combination of materials, when used a long-term intracanal dressing, was likely to be more effective than Ledermix alone. PMID- 2517783 TI - Health outcome models for policy analysis. AB - The increasing therapeutic options in health care have created new dilemmas because resources to pay for the new technologies are limited. Cost/effectiveness and cost/utility models are required in order to evaluate the return on the invested dollar for various health care technologies. The problem is that different technologies are often evaluated using very different outcome units. The alternatives may range from liver transplantation to rehabilitation to preventive care. This article presents an overview of a general health policy model that expresses the benefits of all programs in a common unit known as the well-year--defined as the equivalent of 1 completely well year of life. The model uses two data sources: life expectancy and health-related quality of life during years prior to death. The quality-of-life component considers behavioral scales for mobility, physical activity, social activity, and symptoms. These dimensions are weighted by utility or preference to create a single scale that ranges from 0 (for death) for 1.0 (for optimum health). The model also considers duration of stay in each health state. Because all providers in health care attempt to extend life expectancy and improve quality of life, very different approaches in health care can be evaluated against one another. Preliminary analyses suggest that some behavioral interventions compete favorably with traditional medical and surgical treatments in terms of cost/well-year of life production. Various applications of the model are discussed. PMID- 2517784 TI - [Response level of controls selected from the municipal registry]. AB - The results related to the controls response rate in a case-control study are presented. The study was designed to learn about the relationship between the occupational exposure to toxic products in the parents and the development of acute leukemia in childhood. 128 cases were enrolled in the study and each case was matched by sex and age (less than 15 years) to a control. Controls were selected from the Municipal roll of the same city or town in which the case has been living during the diagnosis. We contacted the control's mother by phone or by personal visit. The response rate was 47.9% and near to a half of non responses was due to errors in the addresses registered in the Municipal roll. The validity of this source of controls in Spain can be questioned in the light of the high percentage of errors. We also discuss the potential selection bias introduced in the study due to the way we selected controls. PMID- 2517785 TI - [Descriptive study of suicide in Galicia, 1987]. AB - Deaths caused by suicide in Galicia during 1987 are studied, in order to identify high incidence areas where further studies could be designed to define specific factors for suicide. Three hundred and three death certificates and their corresponding judicial reports in the subgroup E950-959 of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-9) were processed. Suicide rate in Galicia was found to be 10.65 per 100,000 inhabitants, with 5,313 Years of Potential Life Lost. The suicide rate in the province of Coruna was the highest (12.79 per 100,000 inhabitants) and, within it, the Naron area reached the highest rate (35.40 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants). Male to female ratio was 3.7. Mean age at suicide was 52.8 (sigma = 18.8), the range being 14-90 years. The age distribution was concentrated at older ages, especially among women, who contributed to a higher number of deaths by suicide on sundays and first days of the week. Hanging was the method chosen in 66% of deaths. We conclude that Galicia has a high mortality due to suicide, especially in the industrial area where the economic crisis is more pronounced. PMID- 2517786 TI - [2 methods for the study of differential mortality based on sex: rates ratio and orthogonal regression]. AB - Sex mortality differential is studied for all the causes of death, in La Coruna (Galicia, Spain), according to geographic area, zone (urban, semiurban and countryside) and decade (1961-1970 y 1971-1980). Two study methods are compared: a) Rate ratio (with direct age-adjusted rates); and b): Differential (Dj) between observed rate (M) and expected rate (M), for male mortality, according to female level (orthogonal regression model). t-Student-Fisher tests have been used to compare an observed mean and a theoretic one, and to compare two observed means, with independent data. An increase in male overmortality is found, from one to the other decade (112.9% to 117.0%), confirmed by orthogonal method: respectively 5.38 deaths every 100,000 and 16.81 deaths. This over-mortality is more frequent in the urban areas, while inframortality appears mainly in countryside areas. Furthermore, male overmortality increases in urban zones and decreases in semiurban and rural zones. PMID- 2517787 TI - [The quality of mortality statistics. Galicia 1987]. AB - We intend to study the reliability of the mortality statistics in Galicia (1987), comparing the basic cause of death, with that we obtain by the Autopsy Report (AR). After independently studying 90 AR, three physicians selected the basic cause of death, subsequently coded by the same team. All this persons were blind in relation with the previous certification. 41.1% of the causes of death agreed in 4 digit, 45.6% agreed in 3 digit and the 63.3% remained in the same ICD-9 group. Taking into account all the mistakes found, the 13.3% took place due to an incomplete definition, but the classification remained correct. The 10.0% due to an error in the logic sequence, the 15.6% by an error in the selection of the cause of death and, in the 20.0% there was no relationship between causes. For cardiovascular diseases, the Predictive Positive Value (PPV) was 76.9%, the Sensibility (S) was 83.0% and the Specificity (Sp) 90.9%. For the tumors, the value of the PPV and the S was 73.7% and the Sp was 92.9%. In spite of selection bias because of the method used, we think that the information produced is useful for evaluating the quality of mortality statistics in Galicia. When comparing our results with similar studies, we find an acceptable level. PMID- 2517788 TI - [New perspectives in the management of public health systems]. AB - The following pages try to offer some ways of arguing against pesimism in our health administration culture. In fact, the review of a wide range of feasible reforms of our health system undertaken in this paper gives some clues for a better implementation of the a priori advantages of public health systems. These advantages are not achieved today because of some dysfunctionalities of daily management. To rationalize resources distribution, to evaluate the results, to eliminate unnecessary administrative control, to coordinate responsibility and budgeting centers, to introduce free choice as a response to public demand, and to simulate marketing by private production of public services are elements suggested in this paper to improve public health services management. PMID- 2517789 TI - [Measurement of occupational exposure in the research of cancer etiology]. AB - When planning a study about the effect of occupational exposure on cancer incidence, two main aspects should be taken into account. In the first place, cancer is a disease of long latency. Secondly, the exposure to chemical products, and not the occupation itself, is responsible for the carcinogenic effect. Recently, some authors have developed methods to deal with these aspects in order to improve the validity of the associations which have been described between occupations and cancer. Job-exposure matrix and a method for quantifying the exposure to chemical products are new approaches to investigate the etiology of cancer, specially the part which can be attributed to chemical exposure at work. PMID- 2517790 TI - [Digital subtraction radiography for the detection of periodontal bone changes]. AB - This study was performed to evaluate the efficacy of digital subtraction radiography in detecting alveolar bone changes. In order to test the sensitivity of quantitative evaluation by subtraction radiography, a copper equivalent thickness obtained from digitized radiographs was compared with the actual mineral content of bone phantoms with 15 different minerals and 25 bone specimens. Results demonstrated that the copper equivalent thickness correlated well with the actual mineral content (bone phantoms: gamma s = 1.0, bone specimens: gamma s = 0.985). In order to test the ability of digitized subtraction radiography in assessing alveolar bone changes in vivo, subtraction images were compared with histological features. The experimental angular bony defects were treated with conservative periodontal therapy in 3 monkeys. The standardized radiographs were taken longitudinally after therapy, and subtraction images were made from the sequentially obtained radiographs. In addition, for fluorescent histomorphometrical evaluations of new bone formations, the animals were dosed with oxytetracycline, calsein solution and arizarin complex solution. Radiographic and histological evaluations were scheduled to provide healing periods of 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 9 weeks after periodontal therapy. Subtraction radiography offered an objective method to follow histological changes of alveolar bone, and the copper equivalent thickness obtained from subtraction radiographs correlated with the histometric bone volume (gamma s = 0.9023, p less than 0.01). The results of these studies indicated that subtraction radiography was useful in monitoring alveolar bone changes associated with periodontal disease and treatment and that the quanitative measurement of periodontal bone changes by subtraction radiography was feasible. PMID- 2517791 TI - [Effects of nicotinate ethyl ester treatment on gingival blood circulation of experimental gingivitis in monkeys]. AB - The effects of nicotinate ethyl ester treatment on the gingival blood circulation of plaque induced inflammation in monkeys were determined. The blood flow, amount of hemoglobin and oxyhemoglobin rate (oxyhemoglobin/total hemoglobin) in gingival blood circulation in addition to bacterial colony forming units (CFU), gingival index (GI), probing depth (PD), loss of attachment (LA) and amount of gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) were used as parameters. Besides 1% nicotinate ethyl ester paste (nicotinate paste), 0.5% chlorhexidine (CHX) paste as an antibacterial agent, a mixture of the two pastes and the base alone as a control were used. 1. The blood flow, amount of hemoglobin, CFU, GCF, PD and GI increased as inflammation developed, and these showed significant correlations. 2. The oxyhemoglobin rate showed no corresponding change with inflammation. 3. Nicotinate paste, CHX paste and the mixed paste seemed to reduce the inflammation of the gingiva as assessed by the blood flow, hemoglobin amount, CFU and GCF amount compared with the control paste. PMID- 2517792 TI - Clinical judgment vs cookbook criteria. PMID- 2517793 TI - Neurofibromatosis: a prototype of the phakomatoses, paracrine disorders in man? PMID- 2517794 TI - Perspectives. PMID- 2517795 TI - Effect of anatoxin-a(s) from Anabaena flos-aquae NRC-525-17 on blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, tidal volume, minute volume, and phrenic nerve activity in rats. AB - The effects of anatoxin-a(s) [antx-a(s)] from the cyanobacterium Anabaena flos aquae NRC-525-17 on mean arterial blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, tidal volume, minute volume, and phrenic nerve activity were evaluated in anesthetized Sprague-Dawley rats. Anatoxin-a(s) was administered by continuous intravenous infusion. The initial effect of the toxin was to slow the heart rate and reduce arterial blood pressure, followed by much more pronounced reductions in these parameters. The marked decline in heart rate and blood pressure frequently occurred before there was a large decrease in respiratory minute volume [reduced by only 15.4 +/- 3% (mean +/- S.E.) compared to the predose period], suggesting that antx-a(s) has an important muscarinic action on the cardiovascular system in vivo. Phrenic nerve amplitude increased, but, nevertheless, tidal and minute volumes decreased progressively, indicating that antx-a(s), unlike most low-molecular-weight organophosphorus cholinesterase inhibitors, does not have any remarkable inhibitory action on central mediation of respiration. PMID- 2517796 TI - Hypercapnia, hypocapnia and hypoxemia. PMID- 2517797 TI - Modified sampling connection for sidestream end tidal CO2 monitoring during pediatric anesthesia. AB - A modification to the sampling connection of Ohmeda 5200 CO2 monitor was done to abolish the increase in apparatus dead space induced by the patient circuit adapter. The modified and the original sampling connections [MSC & OSC] were compared regarding their effects on end tidal CO2 (PECO2), during surgery in 12 anesthetized spontaneously breathing infants and children. The MSC maintained normal PECO2, while it was significantly higher using the OSC. PMID- 2517798 TI - [Deep fascicular fibromatoses in diagnostic material from the pathomorphology department of the Institute of Mother and Child]. AB - We studied 17 cases of deep fascicular fibromatoses of various location in children and adolescents from 7 months to 16 years. Basic proliferative cells consisted of mature cells of the connective tissue slightly changed cytologic features but without atypia. We observed scanty regular mitoses. Histological structure of individual tumours and fields in the same tumours differed in the degree of collagenization, vascularization and abundance of cells. In four cases proliferations were differentiated with neurofibromatosis, in one case with fibrosarcoma of high-degree differentiation. In four cases the tumours were of desmoid structure. In two cases of mesenteric location of the proliferation we found foci of cartilagous metaplasia, which in one case after several recurrences transformed the tumour into a chondrosarcoma. PMID- 2517799 TI - The present state of chemoprophylaxis in transfusional Chagas' disease. PMID- 2517800 TI - Family occurrence of schistosomal hepatosplenomegaly and maternal effect. AB - In this paper we present a study of members of 265 nuclear families, aged six or more. This study is based of family heredograms, and takes into account the clinical form of schistosomiasis observed before treatment with oxamniquine. The probability of occurrence of two or more cases of hepatosplenomegaly is low, notwithstanding the fact that it was observed in 38 families. Even less frequent is the occurrence of three or more cases observed in 17 families (P = 0.002). The concentration of the hepatosplenic form was higher among siblings than it was among mothers and children, or fathers and children. It was found to be not significant between husband (father) and wife (mother). These observations reinforce the evidence for the presence of a genetic component in susceptibility to the hepatosplenic form of the disease. In cases in which the mother was hepatosplenic there was a higher incidence of hepatosplenic children; the relative risk was a least five times higher than in those in which the father was the affected member (the maternal effect). In cases where both members were affected by the hepatointestinal form, the risk to the filial generation was similar to that of the population in general. Thus, in the process towards severe forms of schistosomiasis mansoni, pre and post natal factors might be involved. PMID- 2517801 TI - Hemocultures for the parasitological diagnosis of human chronic Chagas' disease. AB - With the purpose of standardization of an hemoculture technique presenting a higher positive rate in the parasitological diagnosis of chronic Chagas' disease in patients with reactive serology (IFT, HA, CFT) the following schedule was used. Thirty ml of venous blood was collected with heparin and the plasma was separated by centrifugation (2.000 rpm/30'). The packed cells were washed with LIT medium or PBS which was then removed by centrifugation (2.000 rpm/15'). This material was sampled in 6 screw-tubes 18 x 200 with 6 ml of LIT medium and incubated at 28 degrees C. These incubated cultures at 28 degrees C were examined after 15, 30, 45 and 60 days. When the hemoculture was not immediately processed after blood collection, the plasma was removed and the sediment enriched with LIT medium and preserved at 4 degrees C. The Xenodiagnosis was performed according to Schenone's method used here as a reference technique. Among the various groups of patients examined by both techniques the best results obtained were: 55.08% of positivity for hemocultures against 27.5% for xenodiagnosis (X2 = 4.54, p = 0.05), with a tube positivity of 26.6%. Recommendation for screening trials of drug assays is the repetition of method on a same patient 2 or more times in different occasions, as used in xenodiagnosis. PMID- 2517802 TI - [Parasitemia in chronic chagasic patients evaluated using the index of infected Triatoma in xenodiagnosis]. AB - As part of a pre-treatment study of chronic Chagas infections, the parasitemia of 206 patients (85 men and 121 women, aged 7 to 80 y) from Virgem da Lapa, Minas Gerais State Brazil, was evaluated by three xenodiagnoses per patient during a one year period. Each time, 40 3rd or 4th instar nymphs of Triatoma infestans were applied. The parasitemia was arbitrarily classified as: not detected (when all nymphs were negative), low (when the number of infected nymphs was less than 2%), medium (when it was higher than 2% and up to 7%) and high (when higher than 7%). The parasitemia was not detected in 105 (51%) of the patients, and was considered low in 55 (26.7%), medium in 27 (13.1%) and high in 19 (9.2%). There was no significant differences in levels of parasitemia in relation to sex or age, but the high parasitemia was more frequent among the patients with chagasic cardiomyopathy. Persistent parasitemia (all three xenodiagnoses positive) was observed in 100% of the patients with high parasitemia, in 22.2% with medium and in none with low parasitemia. PMID- 2517803 TI - [Inbreeding coefficient in carriers of Schistosoma mansoni]. AB - The coefficient of inbreeding (for Wright) was studied in Catolandia, in the state of Bahia, Brazil, an area considered hyperendemic for manson schistosomiasis in a population of 1,130 inhabitants. The coefficient of inbreeding was estimated for 1,123 individuals it was classified as f greater than 0 in 13.2% (n = 148). In the hepatosplenic group the frequency of f greater than 0 was 26.8%, and in the hepatointestinal group the frequency was 12.5%. The frequency of the hepatosplenic diagnosis in whites who were f = 0 did not differ from that which was observed in the negroid group. These verifications were confirmed by the Woolf's test; the relative risk of the whites, f greater than 0 in acquiring hepatosplenic schistosomiasis was 14.1. These observations reinforce the influence of the genetic component in the development of the hepatosplenic form of the mansons schistosomiasis. PMID- 2517805 TI - [Comparison of the chelating capacity of EDTA and EGTA, a new demineralized agent, on molars in vitro]. AB - Recent morphologic studies have shown qualitative, how demineralizing substances clean teeth roots. In this work we attempt to describe quantitatively the "chelation process" and pH evolution of the quelator solution in-vitro inside the teeth during the reaction. These results indicate that Ca++ coming from hydroxyapatite release protons from EDTAH under neutral conditions. This is the most likely mechanism of the "self-limitation". Furthermore, it allow us to explain why EDTA Im and EGTA Im were more efficient than EDTA Na and EGTA Na upon demineralizing the tooth. EGTA Im turn out to be the fastest demineralizing agent as compared to EDTA Na which is currently employed in endodontic therapy. PMID- 2517804 TI - Schistosomal glomerulonephritis: is it more prevalent in hepatosplenic patients when cor pulmonale is present? PMID- 2517806 TI - [Sensitivity to antibiotics of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from patients in the years 1986-1988]. AB - Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains (240 in all) isolated from various clinical materials in the years 1986-1988 showed a high sensitivity to amikacin (92.3 100%), colistin (84.6-100%) and ceftazidim (84.6-100%). Netilmycin acted on 75.4% of the strains, and penicillins (carbenicillin, ticarcillin and azlocillin) similarly as gentamicin, tobramycin, cefotaxim, cefoperazon and ceftriaxon were active only against 51.3-66.7% of the tested strains. PMID- 2517807 TI - [Tissue-type plasminogen activator--biochemistry, physiology and clinical use]. AB - Tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) is the main physiological activator of the fibrinolysis process present in nearly all organs, tissues and secretions. Its most important function is dissolving of intervascular fibrin deposits. T-PA is synthesized and secreted by the endothelium of blood vessels in response to various stimuli. Its enzymatic activity in plasma is controlled by rapidly acting inhibitors. Reduced generation of t-PA activity may be the cause of thrombotic changes in the vascular system. Studies are conducted presently on the use of t PA in thrombolytic treatment. PMID- 2517808 TI - [Interferon--properties and action]. AB - The role played by interferon in human organism is described, with particular reference to its immunomodulatory effects. The classification of interferons, and the mode of its synthesis in cells infected by viruses are presented. The molecular bases of interferon action as a protein inhibiting virus development and the role of gamma interferon in human immunity are discussed. PMID- 2517809 TI - Dopaminergic-cholinergic interaction in a myoclonus of Papio papio baboon. PMID- 2517810 TI - Controversy about the eustachian tube function. AB - The author suggests that the classic view on the function of the Eustachian tube remains controversial and should be reviewed: the gas exchange by vascular diffusion is apparently located in the antromastoid cavity where an overpressure occurs. This overpressure is equalized downwards to match the ambiant pressure, by the synergic activity of the tensor tympani and the fibro-cartilaginous Eustachian Tube. PMID- 2517811 TI - Biological activities of interleukin-2 and gamma-interferon in bovine T lymphocyte conditioned media. AB - Interleukin 2 and gamma-interferon were revealed in cultures of Concanavalin A activated bovine mononuclear cells from peripheral blood leukocytes and their kinetics of production were described. Cyclosporin A could dramatically inhibit the synthesis of interleukin 2, whereas it did not affect the interleukin 2 dependent proliferation of bovine T blasts. Bovine T lymphocyte conditioned media (TLCM) containing gamma-interferon increased the expression of beta-2 microglobulin in human HEL (Human Embryo Lung) 299 cells and exerted a potent anti-proliferative effect upon bovine Aubek cells. The beta-2 microglobulin modulating activity of bovine gamma-interferon was exerted at very low concentrations, which showed no detectable antiviral activity on human cells. PMID- 2517812 TI - Intranasal LHRH agonist combined periodically with a progestogen for contraception. PMID- 2517813 TI - Is NF-1 always distinct from NF-2? PMID- 2517814 TI - Neurofibromatosis type 1 with bilateral acoustic neuromas. AB - A patient diagnosed as having neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF-1) on the basis of 6 cafe-au-lait macules, multiple subcutaneous neurofibromas and 1 Lisch nodule is described. He later was found to have bilateral acoustic nerve tumors plus multiple intracranial meningiomas. This patient is one of a few adequately described cases who clinically meets diagnostic criteria for NF-1 and has bilateral acoustic nerve tumors. PMID- 2517815 TI - Hydrocephalus in neurofibromatosis. Contribution of magnetic resonance imaging to its diagnosis, control and treatment. AB - Cerebral ventricular dilation and/or frank hydrocephalus unrelated to brain tumors is not a rare feature of von Recklinghausen neurofibromatosis (NF-1). In our experience, it was observed in 23% of patients consulting for neurological problems. From 1984 to 1989, 30 patients with documented NF-1 were referred to for cranial or spinal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In 9 of these patients, clinical features or previous computed tomographic scanning revealed hydrocephalus or ventriculomegaly. One patient had biventricular hydrocephalus (enlarged lateral ventricles), 7 had triventricular hydrocephalus (aqueductal stenosis) and 1 had tetraventricular hydrocephalus (obstruction of the foramina of Magendie and Luschka). MRI showed anomalies in all 9 patients. The importance of MRI for the diagnosis, control and treatment of the hydrocephalus as well as for understanding the embryologic pathogenesis of these conditions is emphasized. PMID- 2517816 TI - Optic pathway gliomas in neurofibromatosis. AB - Two patients, a 5-year-old girl and a 3-year-old boy, with documented neurofibromatosis (NF-1) and visual pathway gliomas are reported. In the first patient, the tumor was a typical pilocytic astrocytoma confined to the proximal half of the right optic nerve just near the globe. The tumor was excised; after a follow-up of 7 years recurrence has not occurred. The second patient had a glioma of the left optic nerve, with involvement of the chiasm, optic tracts, probably lateral geniculate body, optic radiations and basal ganglia. Biventricular hydrocephalus, possibly due to the occlusion of Monro's foramina, was also noted. In this case, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was superior to computed tomography for visualizing the posterior extension of the lesions. The patient received X-ray therapy and after a follow-up of 3 years the clinical symptomatology remains stationary. It is suggested that the optic pathway involvement detected by MRI may represent a dysplastic element NF-1 rather than a truly neoplastic change. PMID- 2517817 TI - Multiple frontobasal meningoencephaloceles in neurofibromatosis. AB - A patient is reported who has multiple osseomeningeal defects and bilateral frontobasal encephaloceles in the context of a neurofibromatosis. After frontobasal revision with plastic closure of a cerebrospinal fluid fistula, the rhinoliquorrhea cleared, but there was an aggravation of a preexisting internal hydrocephalus with signs of raised intracranial pressure. The conditions were stabilized after various shunt operations. Additional diagnoses included a cyst (possibly a colloid cyst) in the anterior third ventricle and partial aplasia of the anterior trabecula. The particular problems in this case in relation to the spinal meningoceles already known in neurofibromatosis and spheno-orbital encephaloceles are discussed. PMID- 2517818 TI - Neurofibromatosis, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, or both? AB - The simultaneous occurrence of neurofibromatosis and a peripheral neuropathy that has the clinical and electrophysiological features of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (HMSN I) has rarely been reported. A recent report described patients with HMSN I with hypertrophic lumbosacral nerve roots. We report a patient with compelling evidence for neurofibromatosis who also demonstrates clinical and electrophysiological features of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. Abdominal and pelvic CT scan revealed diffusely and symmetrically enlarged lumbosacral nerve roots. These nerve roots were biopsied, and the specimens revealed neurofibromas. Histology, electrophysiological studies, radiology, and clinical appearance of the abnormality in peripheral nerves and lumbosacral nerve roots will be emphasized in this paper. The simultaneous occurrence in our patient of neurofibromatosis and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease suggests a possible genetic relationship between these two disorders. PMID- 2517819 TI - Neurofibromatosis type 1 in a child of a parent with segmental neurofibromatosis (NF-5). AB - Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF-1) was incidentally diagnosed in a 1-year-old girl. Her father was found to show the cutaneous signs of segmental neurofibromatosis (NF-5). This observation supports the possibility that subjects with NF-5 can transmit NF-1 to their offsprings in some cases, which has to be considered in genetic counseling. PMID- 2517820 TI - Gastric acetylcholine and histamine content of normal and Trypanosoma cruzi infected rats. AB - 1. The consequences of acute Trypanosoma cruzi infection for acetylcholine and histamine levels in gastric wall and for mast cells of the stomach were studied in rats. 2. Intraperitoneal infection with 4,000 trypomastigotes/g of a Y strain of Trypanosoma cruzi led to a 4-fold decrease in gastric acetylcholine level and to a 57- and 15-fold increase in histamine content in the membranous and glandular regions of the rat stomach, respectively. 3. Infection of rats with Trypanosoma cruzi also induced a 2- and 4-fold increase in mast cell numbers in the membranous and glandular regions of the muscle layer of the gastric wall, respectively, and a ganglionic inflammatory reaction with predominance of mononuclear cells. 4. We conclude that in acutely Trypanosoma cruzi-infected rats, the reduction of acetylcholine content is due to gastric denervation and that the histamine increase might be secondary to gastric denervation and/or to an increase in the number of mast cells of the gastric wall. PMID- 2517821 TI - [Inverted arthroplasty of the temporomandibular joint with the posterior segment of the ramus]. AB - With vertical osteotomy of ascending ramus we have performed arthroplasty with inverted posterior segment for 13 cases of true ankylosis. There were 10 cases with more than 2.5 centimeters of Maximum Incisal Opening for more than six months, without open bite secondary to the operation. X-ray examination showed excellent union between the inverted segment and the rest of ramus and satisfactory appearance. There were some advantages of this operative technique; it is easy to operate and is able late the height of the ascending ramus, to form a new TMJ with point to surface contact which is similar to the normal anatomy of TMJ, and help rehabilitate the function of TMJ. PMID- 2517822 TI - [Stress analysis of the periodontal ligament of the human tooth using a three dimensional finite element method]. AB - Three-dimensional finite element analysis is used to determine the physiological stress values in periodontal ligament (PDL). In comparison with the elastic modulus E of PDL, the E of dentin and bone are much larger. For the estimation of the stresses in PDL, the tooth and the supporting bone can be considered to be rigid. The finite element model of PDL of the mandibular right first molar consists of 210 elements (20-node isoparametric element) and 1612 nodes. Eleven load cases were selected in the study, which included the longitudinal occlusive load, buccal lingual lateral load, mesial-distal lateral load and other load cases to simulate the actual occlusive loads. The results obtained from this study lead to the following conclusions: 1. The loads which go through the physiological center of the tooth, the stresses induced by the loads which are compressive and relatively small. There are no tensile stresses. 2. Among eleven load cases studied in this work, the following three load cases are most harmful. a. The maximum tensile stress was found under mesial-distal lateral load; b. The maximum compressive stress was found under longitudinal occlusive load on the buccal groove or lingual groove; c. The highest stress concentration was found under buccal-lingual lateral load. The clinical significance of the results has also been discussed in the paper. PMID- 2517823 TI - [Condylo-pterygo-maxillo-oblique tomography]. AB - This is a new projection method for TMJ examination. In this film, not only the structures of the joint but also the surrounding structures were manifested. These included the internal and external articular tubercles, internal and external poles of the condylar head, pterygoid process, and the posterior portion of dental occlusion. Particularly, the external pterygoid muscle is manifested in this film. The above mentioned features could not be found in Schuller's film. It is obvious that the combined CPMO tomography with Schuller's film will be a perfect method of TMJ examination. The details of the projection technique are described and discussed. PMID- 2517824 TI - [99mTc-MDP bone scintigraph in the diagnosis of experimental osteoradionecrosis (ORN) of the jaw]. AB - Controlled studying findings from 62 radionuclide scintigraphic and X-ray photographic examinations of the same stage in the experimental animals indicated. The diagnosis of ORN could hardly be established while bone scintigraphic examination is negative, but it is recommended that ORN mostly exists if scintigraphic result is positive. The grading of bone scanning based on the difference of radionuclide concentration in diseased area offered a reference for treatment. Measuring and calculating both examination pictures, we put forward a method to quantitatively determine the limits of lesions. The facts showed by bone scanning that blood supply was rich and metabolism was vigorous in diseased area of ORN presented a new object for research on fundamental theory. PMID- 2517825 TI - [Experimental study of composites of bovine bone morphogenetic protein and bio active glass ceramic implanted into surgically produced periodontal bony defects in dogs]. AB - Bovine bone morphogenetic protein (bBMP) was incorporated with bio-active glass ceramic (BGC). The composite of bBMP-BGC and BGC were implanted into the surgically produced periodontal osseous defects in dogs. Observations at 10, 16, 20, and 24 weeks show that the implants of BMP-BGC have the ability of bone induction and enhance the regeneration of periodontal bony defects in a relatively short time, but the implants of BGC alone only have the ability of bone-conduction, these is no bone-induction ability, and made a more long time in repairing the periodontal bony defects. PMID- 2517826 TI - [Fibro-osseous lesions of the jaw and facial bones: a clinico-histologic radiologic study of 138 cases]. AB - A clinical-histologic-radiologic study of 138 cases of fibro-osseous lesions of the jaw and facial bones is presented. In this series, all were monostotic lesions except 8 polyostotic fibrous dysplasia. In the 130 monostotic lesions, 59 occurred in maxilla, 66 in mandible, 4 in zygoma and one in ethmoid bone. Clinically, a painless enlargement of the involved bone was the main sign. Histologically, these lesions were composed of proliferating fibrous connective tissues and various amounts of calcified tissues, but different lesion has different feature. Radiologically, fibrous dysplasia was characterized by lesions with diffuse blending. The other three tumors including ossifying fibroma, cementifying fibroma and fibro-osteoma were all represented by lesions with well delineated borders. In this article, Diagnosis of the fibro-osseous lesions and some questions about fibro-osteoma of the jaw and facial bones and osteofibrous dysplasia of long bones are discussed. PMID- 2517827 TI - [Caries inhibiting effect of ammonium fluoride varnish in vitro]. AB - The reaction of incorporation of fluoride into tooth enamel from NH4F varnish, and Duaphat were measured using SEMq2 in vitro. Level of enamel uptake of fluoride was highest in teeth treated with NH4F varnish. Average depth of fluoride penetrated into enamel was more than 80 microns from the two varnishes. Prolonged coating duration from 24 hours to 1 week did not increase uptake and penetration of fluoride from both varnishes. The NH4F varnish was found to be superior to Duraphat in terms of inhibiting artificial caries lesion formation (P less than 0.001). PMID- 2517828 TI - [Prosthetic treatment by pushing back part of the hard palate in third-degree cleft palate]. AB - In the third degree of cleft palate, the palate bones are short, the cleft is wide, the degree of palatal tissue atrophy and the anterior displacement of the muscles are great. It is difficult to repair satisfactorily. We carried out a treatment plan by pushing the soft palate and posterior part of the palatal bone fully back to the physiological closure position by surgical means without cutting through the palatal aponeurosis. By using a palatal plate with pharyngeal prong immediately after operation to fix the composite flap posteriorly and restore the defect of the hard palate. The palatal palate is changed with a silicon obturator or performed secondary operation to repair the perforation of the hard palate after the primary wound is well healed. 24 cases have been performed by this means since 1984. The outcomes are good. It is well conditioned for surgical orthodontics of severe crossbite which results from undeveloped maxilla also. PMID- 2517829 TI - [Survey and analysis of the normal deciduous teeth arch in children 3 and 4 years of age]. AB - The normal deciduous teeth arch of 200 cases of 3 and 4 years old children from 13 kindergartens in Shanghai were investigated and analysed. The result showed that the bilateral form was more than mixed form in terminal plane. In bilateral form, mesial step type was the most and vertical plane type second, the least one was distal step type. The spaced type dental arch was more than closed type previously. There were 90.63% arch with both primate space and developmental space. The spaces were more in BC and CD, and less in DE. There was no difference of the equal values of teeth arch in age, but difference in sex. The function of physiological space and the clinic significance of values of terminal plane and teeth arch were discussed. These data may provide the reference to clinical observation and calculation. PMID- 2517831 TI - [Influence of the treatment of tooth discoloration caused by tetracycline on the structure of teeth]. PMID- 2517830 TI - [Review of ossifying fibroma and fibrous dysplasia of the jaw and facial bones]. PMID- 2517833 TI - [The relation of caries and fluorides in the saliva and serum in a low fluoride area]. PMID- 2517832 TI - [Clinical observation and histologic analysis of diseases of the lip]. PMID- 2517835 TI - A scanning electron microscopic and tensile bond strength evaluation of Gluma dentin bond application, as a function of dentinal pretreatment. AB - Scanning Electron Micrographs (SEM) and Tensile Bond Strength (TBS) measurements were used to evaluate the influence of three different dentinal pretreatments. A new testing device was developed for the TBS measurements. Human tooth roots were ground with a diamond bur. Tap water, Gluma Cleanser, and Neo-Sabenyl-Tubulicid were used to clean the surfaces before SEM inspection. The adhesion between root dentin and Lumifor Composite restorations was mediated by Gluma Bond. SEM observations revealed that a 30-second application of Gluma Cleanser removes the smear layer totally. Neo-Sabenyl-Tubulicid produced a very smooth surface. Application of Gluma Bond did not alter this appearance. Mean TBS values for surfaces sprayed with tap water, Gluma Cleanser, and Neo-Sabenyl-Tubulicid were 10 MPa, 7.3 MPa, and 10 MPa, respectively. There was a significant difference between group 2 (Gluma Cleanser) and the other groups. From this in vitro study, it is concluded that total removal of the smear layer with opening of the dentinal tubules (e.g., by means of Gluma Cleanser) reduces the TBS of Gluma Dentin Bond-Lumifor restorations to ground root dentin. PMID- 2517834 TI - [Experimental study of transplantation of the dermis for reconstruction oral mucosal defects]. PMID- 2517837 TI - [Meningococcal meningitis]. PMID- 2517836 TI - Gluma dentin adhesive: effectiveness and shelf life. AB - The purpose of this study was to test the effectiveness and shelf life of a commercially available glutaraldehyde/methacrylate dentin adhesive (Gluma). The measurement of marginal contraction gaps in 320 cavities restored over a period of 415 days was the basis for these determinations. The results showed that Gluma dentin adhesive was more effective with one of the two composite restorative materials used for the study, and that the shelf life of Gluma exceeded 415 days. PMID- 2517839 TI - A new root canal sealer based on calcium hydroxide. AB - A new root canal sealer based on calcium hydroxide has been developed and two properties, sealing ability and biocompatibility, have been investigated in this study. Sealing ability was assessed by the extent of dye penetration along root fillings in extracted teeth. The sealing ability was good and similar to that of a control zinc oxide-eugenol sealer. Biocompatibility was assessed by histological examination of the periapical tissues of monkey teeth, either 1 or 6 months, after vital pulpectomy and immediate root filling with gutta-percha and sealer. Zinc oxide-eugenol was used as the control sealer. Normal periapical tissues were observed around all 24 teeth filled with the experimental root canal sealer. The study established that the new root canal sealer had acceptable properties of biocompatibility and sealing ability. PMID- 2517838 TI - Influence of protein-calorie malnutrition on reproductive performance of young and mature rats. AB - The effect on reproduction and fetal growth of a protein-deficient diet administration during pregnancy was studied in young and adult rats. Young (50-55 days old) and adult (90-100 days old) pregnant or nonpregnant rats were fed a normal diet (25% protein) or a protein-deficient diet (6% protein) during pregnancy or for a 22-day period (nonpregnant rats). All females were weighed during the experiment and body length measured in the young rats. After parturition, pups were counted, sexed and individually weighed. Litter size, number of stillbirths and presence of body lesions in the neonates were also recorded. Alimentary protein deficiency caused reduction in weight gain during pregnancy and in the postpartum period in young and adult rats. Pups from protein deficient dams weighed less at birth than the pups of control dams, although litter size was unaltered. Pups from young malnourished dams tended to weigh less than those from adult malnourished dams. The incidence of stillbirths was higher in malnourished rats, the highest values occurring in the adult group. These results suggest that alimentary protein deficiency during pregnancy in young rats reduces maternal weight gain, presumably reducing nutrient storage. This may cause fetal/maternal competition for nutrients leading to retardation of both maternal and fetal growth. Growth impairment may be an adaptive process, assuring fetal survival. PMID- 2517840 TI - Magnetic resonance imaging in refractory focal epilepsy with normal CT scans. AB - One hundred patients suffering from focal epilepsy with complex partial seizures refractory to medical treatment and showing no abnormality at CT were explored by MRI with an 0.5 Tesla magnet. MRI detected an abnormality in 25 patients with, in 17 of them, good correlation between MRI and clinical as well as electroencephalographic findings. Abnormal morphology and signal was found in 5 patients, with positive CT results on reexamination of previous CT images or on new CT scans in 4 of them. There was a diffuse temporal lobe high-intensity signal in 3 cases and a localized high-intensity signal in 9 cases (temporal lobe 4, occipital lobe 3, frontal lobe 1, fronto-parietal and parietal lobes 1). Thus, in 13% of the cases MRI demonstrated a lesion that had not been detected at CT, and the location of the lesion was concordant with clinical and electroencephalographic data. PMID- 2517841 TI - Indications of radiological explorations in partial epilepsy of childhood. AB - In partial epilepsy of childhood the decision to request radiological exploration rests on a good knowledge of the disease. The authors summarize the electrical and clinical features of the various types of partial epilepsy. Most of these types, and in particular benign partial epilepsy with rolandic paroxysms, require no exploration. In contrast, symptomatic partial epilepsy must be investigated in search of a brain lesion. In such cases CT is indispensable. The more accurate and more sensitive MRI may be performed either initially or after a negative CT scanning in children with partial epilepsy which does not respond to medical treatment. PMID- 2517842 TI - Magnetic resonance imaging in partial epilepsy of childhood. Seventy-nine cases. AB - A heterogeneous series of 79 children with partial epilepsy was studied by computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to evaluate the contribution of MRI to the aetiological diagnosis of that disease. Both CT and MRI were normal in 13 cases and abnormal in 41 cases showing the same pathology (malformation, atrophy, tumour, scar). In 4 cases of continuous partial epilepsy the lesions observed were either diffuse or focal corresponding to the electrical focus, and they could be due to Rasmussen's encephalitis. In 19 cases where CT gave normal results, MRI showed bilateral high-intensity signal areas of uncertain significance in the white matter of the caudal part of the hemispheres. All considered, it seems that with its greater sensitivity MRI should be the first or only exploratory method to be used in the evaluation of partial epilepsy of childhood. PMID- 2517844 TI - Long term effects of primary teeth pulpotomies with formocresol, glutaraldehyde calcium hydroxide and glutaraldehyde-zinc oxide eugenol on succudaneous teeth. AB - The relationship between formocresol, glutaraldehyde-calcium hydroxide and glutaraldehyde-zinc oxide eugenol pulpotomies on primary teeth and enamel defects on the permanent successor were evaluated. There were no significant differences between the test and control groups. PMID- 2517843 TI - Study of the cerebral blood flow in partial epilepsy of childhood using the SPECT method. AB - Cerebral functional imaging methods provide information on the location of the epileptic focus in partial epilepsy of adults. We report our experience of one of these methods, single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), in epilepsy of children. SPECT enables the regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) to be measured, after inhalation or injection of 133-Xenon, on 5 contiguous, 20 mm thick axial sections, with a 14 mm resolution and negligible brain irradiation. In Sturge Weber syndrome (13 patients aged 9 months to 18 years) the rCBF was reduced in the same territory as CT abnormalities suggesting ischaemia of the brain tissue lying below the pial angioma; the SPECT image facilitated the diagnosis in 3 patients with atypical CT. In hemimegalencephaly (6 patients aged 1 month to 10 years) the rCBF was extremely low in the hypertrophic hemisphere and in 1 case the SPECT image was determinant in the decision to perform hemispherectomy. In partial epilepsy with normal CT and/or MRI (42 children aged 1 to 15 years) the rCBF was abnormal in 83% of the patients, and its abnormality was located in the same area as the EEG focus in three quarters of the cases. Between seizures, the rCBF was low in 3 out of 4 cases and abnormality decreased after the seizures had ceased (6 patients explored twice); it was high in 1 out of 4 cases. Thus, in children as in adults, cerebral functional imaging provides new data which contribute to the localization and follow-up of epileptic foci. PMID- 2517846 TI - [Use of "rare earth" reinforced screens in dentistry]. PMID- 2517845 TI - Formocresol and glutaraldehyde pulpotomies in primary teeth. AB - The purpose of the present study was to compare clinically and radiologically the effects of formocresol and glutaraldehyde as a medicament in pulpotomized carious exposed vital human primary molars. In formocresol group 90% clinical and radiological success rate and in glutaraldehyde group 100% clinical and radiological success rate was observed. Thus it was concluded that glutaraldehyde is better fixative and less toxic agent than formocresol. PMID- 2517847 TI - [Analysis of an industrial product. The toothbrush 2]. AB - In this work, the Author picks out the manifold aspects of the toothbrush design, in relation to the connections between ergonomics and design, including the analysis of the productive process and of the historical changements, to better understand the functional characteristics of the examined object. More precisely, the evolution of the tooth-brush, its social effects, together with the description of the possibilities and responsibilities of design, are the main topic of the study worked out. PMID- 2517848 TI - [Costs of caries therapy and prevention in a school]. AB - The prevalence of dental caries in the school children population in Rieti is very high, according to low levels of fluoride content in drinkable water, similar to those detected in other areas of Italy and Europe. The aim of our research is to propose a combined prevention protocol, utilizing fluoride tablets and dental therapy through structures already existing in the public health national organization. The application of this combined (profilaxis-therapy) protocol is expected to decrease the prevalence of dental caries to 50% in a five years period, at a very accettable cost. This protocol should find early application, possibly starting from maternal schools. PMID- 2517849 TI - [Primary and secondary prevention through a public agency]. AB - In our work we have tried to realize an oral prevention program in a public body. From 1978 to 1983 we observed 1489 children from 6 to 11 years old. Our positive results show that also all public structures should organize a complete prevention program to obtain a diminution of DMF indexes. PMID- 2517850 TI - [Abrasivity of dentifrices. Comparative SEM study]. AB - The Authors analyze the abrasivity of seven types of toothpaste by SEM observation. They also give prominence to different microscopical features depending on abrasive system particles. PMID- 2517851 TI - [Epidemiology of Chagas disease in the municipalities of Castelo do Piaui and Pedro II, state of Piaui, Brazil]. AB - Triatoma brasiliensis, Triatoma pseudomaculata and Rhodnius nasutus were captured in artificial and natural echotopes in ten localities situated in rural areas of Castelo do Piaui and Pedro II, State of Piaui, Brazil. Nymphal instars predominated and birds were the main blood meal source for triatomines. T. brasiliensis was the only triatomine captured inside the houses searched, harbouring flagellates morphologically and biologically indistinguishable from Trypanosoma (Schizotrypanum) cruzi. Specific serology against T. cruzi by indirect immunofluorescence (IFI) test showed 21.7% positive reactions among 566 inhabitants examined. The results suggest that in these localities the active transmission of Chagas' disease occurs. PMID- 2517852 TI - [Modification of the perihabitational biotype in the prevention of Chagas disease]. AB - In zones endemic for the American trypanosomiasis the modification of the biotopes surrounding human, rural, sylvatic or suburban housing, involves the arrangement of a clean perimetral area completely free of shrubs and chaparral, devoid of dens of wild animals and dwellings of domestic animals, to hinder the persistence of peridomestic foci where the proliferation of Triatomine bugs encourage the reinfestation of the human lodgings. The success of insecticide spraying campaigns, even with simultaneous amelioration of housing, are enhanced by the modification of the biotopes. A pilot field experience is presented; a 2 year active campaign in a suburban area of Villa Carlos Paz, province Cordoba, Argentina, confirming the methods to eliminate reinfestation of houses from peridomestic sites, in an area of low vector density. PMID- 2517853 TI - [Multiple neurofibromatosis--report of a case]. AB - A case of multiple neurofibromatosis with oral manifestation in a 37-year-old woman is reported. The general examination revealed the presence of "cafe-au lait" spots and cutaneous nodular lesions scattered in different sites of the body. A brief review of the literature concerning the polymorphus characteristics of the disease is presented. PMID- 2517854 TI - Health education for self-management has significant early and sustained benefits in chronic arthritis. PMID- 2517855 TI - Effect of targeted mass treatment on intensity of infection and morbidity in schistosomiasis mansoni: seven-year follow-up of a community in Machakos, Kenya. PMID- 2517856 TI - Enhanced thrombolysis in plasma and in vivo by single-chain urokinase-type plasminogen activator (scuPA) conjugated to an antifibrin antibody. PMID- 2517857 TI - [Anti-G antibodies from the RH system. I. Diagnostic antibodies and their clinical significance]. AB - The complex diagnosis of anti-G antibodies in a subject with a not yet described phenotype Rh CcDEeG-is described. The presence of this phenotype made difficult finding of blood for transfusion. On the basis of the available literature the observations are discussed on anti-G antibodies and the views on the genetic determination of the G antigen on the erythrocytes in the light of the phenotypes described as yet. PMID- 2517858 TI - In vivo and in vitro studies on the release of thyrotropin in aging rats. AB - Effects of aging on the concentration of serum thyrotropin (TSH) and the release of TSH in vitro from anterior pituitary glands (APs) of male and female rats were investigated. Rats with 3-5 (young) and 24-26 (old) months of age were used. Some female rats were ovariectomized (Ovx) 10 weeks before use. After decapitation, trunk blood was collected. APs were bisected and preincubated with Krebs-Ringer phosphate buffer (KRB) at 37 degrees C for 60 min. They were then incubated with or without 10 nM thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) for 30 min. The media were collected and replaced by fresh KRB. Incubations were continued and KRB media were changed three times, once every 30 min. One hemi-AP per flask and 7 or 8 flasks per group were used. The concentration of TSH in the medium and serum samples was measured by radioimmunoassay. The level of serum TSH in the diestrous, estrous and Ovx rats was reduced by aging. Thirty min after incubation with TRH, the release of TSH from APs of old intact female or Ovx rats was significantly (P less than 0.01) less than that of corresponding young rats. The concentration of serum TSH and TRH-stimulated release of TSH from APs of male rats was not altered by aging. There was no difference in the basal release of TSH from APs between old and young animals. These data suggest that the release of TSH from APs in response to TRH is decreased by aging in female but not in male rats. PMID- 2517859 TI - Influence of thermal stress and various agents on the brain edema formation in rats following a cryogenic brain lesion. AB - The influence of cold stress, heat stress, or various agents on the development of brain edema were assessed in rats following a cryogenic brain lesion. Brain edema was induced by local cold injury to the cortex. Cerebral edema was assessed 0.5, 3.0 or 24 h after a cryogenic brain lesion by measuring the water content of two hemispheres. Pretreatment of animals with sodium pentobarbital (15 or 30 mg/kg, i.p.) or lidocaine (15 mg/kg, i.p.) did not influence the development of brain edema. In addition, pretreatment with an external heat stress (heat exposure of 32 degrees C for 6 h) exaggerated significantly the development of brain edema in the rat following a cryogenic brain lesion. On the other hand, pretreatment of animals with either external cold stress (cold exposure of 8 degrees C for 6 h), glycerol (10% 10 ml, i.p.), mannitol (15% 10 ml, i.p.), gamma hydroxybutyric acid (300 mg/kg, i.p.), metiamide (5 mg/kg, i.p.), dexamethasone (4 mg/kg, i.p.), aminophylline (100 mg/kg, i.p.), or ketamine (30 mg/kg, i.p.) inhibited significantly the brain edema formation. PMID- 2517860 TI - Care in diabetic emergencies. AB - A review is presented on the care of three diabetic emergencies: diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), hypoglycemias and sick days. A treatment scheme, based on low dose insulin regime and i.v. insulin administration is presented. Plenty of emphasis is laid on fluid and electrolyte therapy. It is stressed that the primary goal in the treatment of DKA is not to reduce blood glucose, but to correct the fluid and electrolyte deficit and by administering insulin to correct the metabolic acidosis and change catabolism into anabolism. The use of bicarbonate in severe DKA is discouraged, and the risk of cerebral edema as a complication of the treatment is stressed. A diabetic child being treated for DKA needs particularly love and care. The three categories of hyperglycemias, mild, moderate, and severe, are briefly reviewed. In severe hypoglycemia (hypoglycemic shock) the treatment is either i.m. glucagon or i.v. glucose. In acute illnesses the use of extra doses of regular insulin is emphasized, in order to prevent DKA. PMID- 2517861 TI - [Molecular mechanisms of cellular adhesion]. AB - Regeneration of connective tissue structures lost as a result of periodontal disease remains the major goal of periodontal therapy. The ability of cells of the periodontium to adhere to the tooth surface is central to a number of phenomenons. Among these are cellular migration, morphogenesis and wound healing. Several classes of molecules appear to mediate the ability of cells to adhere. These cells utilize a group of receptors called Integrins to anchor themselves to the extra-cellular matrix. The receptors are transmembrane heterodimers which serve as bridges which communicate informations between the extra-cellular matrix and the cytoskeleton. PMID- 2517862 TI - Epidemiology and control of schistosomiasis in the Philippines: progress report as of 1987. PMID- 2517863 TI - [Social aspects of the epidemiology and control of schistosomiasis mansoni]. PMID- 2517864 TI - Experimental animal models in vaccination against schistosomiasis. AB - Contrary to previous expectations, innate resistance to a primary schistosome infection is mediated predominantly in the lungs of many laboratory rodents. In addition, the phenomenon of non-permissiveness seen in a sub population of 129 strain mice, is associated with worm relocation from the liver to the lungs and is facilitated by dramatic alteration to the lung and liver vasculature; lung located adult worms exhibit gut damage and are ultimately destroyed within eosinophil-rich inflammatory focal reactions. It is now clear that the immunity induced by exposure to radiation-attenuated cercariae can be affected in the skin (mice), the lungs (mice and rats) or the liver (guinea pigs) of laboratory rodents. Moreover, the fact that skin phase resistances involves radio-sensitive cells, while lung and liver phase immunity centres on radio-resistant leucocytes, resolves current discord in the literature. Immobilisation and trapping of challenge larvae within focal inflammatory infiltrates is nevertheless common to both skin and lung phase attrition. Hyperimmunisation of rodents with irradiated cercariae is associated with a switch in immunoglobulin isotype and serum harvested from such donors is able to protect naive recipients passively; transferred serum recruits effector cells. Challenge parasites exhibit a broader window of sensitivity to vaccine immunity than was originally envisaged; stages ranging from the 3 to 4 day old skin/lung stage larva to the 3 week old juvenile liver worm constitute targets of protective resistance in vivo. This is at variance with the fact that newly transformed schistosomula constituting the primary targets of in vitro effector mechanisms, a feature perhaps related to our inability to mimic the process of intravascular parasite immobilisation and trapping in the test tube. Finally, schistosomicidal drugs such as Praziquantel can, by re-exposing disguised parasite antigens, facilitate the expression of vaccine immunity in sites additional to those at which resistance is normally mediated. PMID- 2517865 TI - A new approach to the treatment of acute schistosomiasis. AB - Clinical and experimental evidence indicates that steroids act synergistically with schistosomicides in the treatment of Katayama syndrome. Due to the low efficacy of schistosomicides in the acute toxaemic phase of schistosomiasis, some authors have suggested that specific treatment for schistosomiasis should be delayed, in these patients, until the disease has entered it's chronic stage (Stuiver, 1984; Harries and Cook, 1987). A dramatic improvement (quick amelioration of symptoms and higher cure rates) was observed when patients with acute schistosomiasis were treated with steroids and schistosomicides. We do not know the explanation for the synergistic effect between steroids and schistosomicides but it has been demonstrated that the association of drugs affected, in some way, the fecundity of S. mansoni worms. The data and arguments presented here reinforce the need to use steroids in conjunction with schistosomicides for the treatment of patients with Katayama syndrome. This approach will give better cure rates, speed the recovery time (reducing the demand for hospital treatment) and improve the quality of medical care. PMID- 2517866 TI - Contrasts in the control of schistosomiasis. PMID- 2517867 TI - The immune-dependence of chemotherapy in experimental schistosomiasis. AB - Experimental evidence indicates that immune effector mechanisms can enhance the activity of schistosomicidal drugs. Praziquantel, oxamniquine, hycanthone and antimony were less effective against Schistosoma mansoni infections in mice immunosuppressed by T cell-deprivation, than against comparable infections in normal mice. The schistosomicidal activities of praziquantel, oxamniquine and antimony have been experimentally enhanced by the synergistic action of immune sera. In passive serum transfer experiments a S. mansoni antigen of Mr 27kD with non-specific esterase activity was identified as a potentially sensitive target for the antibodies that interact with praziquantel. Indirect immunofluorescence indicated that this antigen was exposed on the worm surface as a result of praziquantel treatment. PMID- 2517868 TI - [Lung changes associated with schistosomiasis mansoni]. PMID- 2517869 TI - [Control of schistosomiasis in Brazil]. AB - The great area with transmission of schistosomiasis in Brazil (11% of the hole country) associated to the focal distribution of the helminthiasis makes the disease control a difficult goal, not only methodologically but also in terms of operation. Since 1976, year when the Special Programme of Schistosomiasis Control was begun, it has been possible to develop regular activities of control. Since then, these activities are conducted in a vertical programme, which is being maintained till it will be possible to get to a prevalence of five percent or under this value. The regular checking of prevalence is made through routine screening works by using stools exams. This works gives the orientation to the activity of cases treatment. From this point, is expected that control activities be conducted by permanent health services. Using of molluscocides is being controlled, so that it can be based in accurate epidemiological criteria. Environmental management and education activities in special areas are being conducted with available resources. The results obtained demonstrate that a reduction of cases with the malignant evolution of the disease and also of the morbidity of schistosomiasis is being obtained, at least if we consider the available data in a more aggregate form. PMID- 2517870 TI - [Efficacy of the glass bead sterilizer on endodontic instruments]. AB - The time taken to achieve the sterilization of K files impregnated in a Bacillus subtilis culture was evaluated, placing the files in a glass bead sterilizer. The minimum time needed was 20 seconds at 240 degrees C and the previous cleaning of the file with a sterile wipe impregnated by alcohol reduced this time to 15 seconds. PMID- 2517871 TI - Determination of tissue type plasminogen activator in the glomeruli of patients with IgA nephropathy. AB - The detection, by immunofluorescence, of tissue type plasminogen activator (t-PA) in the glomeruli of 50 patients with IgA nephropathy was described. Patients with t-PA deposits revealed a higher frequency in the glomerular deposition of fibrin and/or fibrinogen than did patients without t-PA deposits. There also was a distinct relationship between the level of serum t-PA and the degree of renal tissue injury in patients with glomerular t-PA deposits. It was concluded that the deposition of t-PA along with fibrin and/or fibrinogen might reduce the effectiveness of fibrinolysis in the glomeruli of patients with IgA nephropathy. PMID- 2517872 TI - Changes of immunological parameters in immunocompromised patients under selective decontamination of the digestive tract. Second Part: Investigations on the influence of drugs on zymosan-induced and luminol-enhanced chemiluminescence of peripheral leucocytes. AB - The influence of drugs used for selective decontamination, given in therapeutically effective concentrations, was examined in healthy controls and immunocompromised patients with hematologic systemic diseases by measuring the zymosan-induced and luminol-enhanced chemiluminescence of peripheral leucocytes. Drug-induced repression of phagocytic activity could usually be found both in healthy controls and in patients with hematologic systemic diseases. The combination of trimethoprim and sulfamerazine had a pronounced repressive effect. Such indications should be taken as a basis for further investigations in order to avoid additional iatrogenic restriction of defence. If possible, drugs with effects leading to repression of phagocytosis should not be used for selective decontamination. PMID- 2517873 TI - Microleakage with Gluma: effects of unfilled resin polymerization and storage time. AB - An earlier study showed that the Gluma Bonding System permitted more microleakage than other dentin bonding agents. In that study, the unfilled resin was not polymerized prior to placement of the composite resin, as per manufacturer's instructions. The unfilled resin was cured in the other test groups. To evaluate the effect of unfilled resin polymerization on microleakage, Class V cavity preparations were made in sound extracted teeth. Composite resin restorations were placed using the Gluma Bonding System and a microfilled composite resin. In some samples, the unfilled resin was cured prior to placement of the composite. In others, the unfilled resin and composite were polymerized simultaneously. The samples were stored for either 24 hours or 30 days, then thermocycled. Microleakage was evaluated with a silver nitrate staining method. Specimens in which the unfilled resin had not been cured separately and which had been stored for 24 hours had the most leakage. Significantly less microleakage occurred when the unfilled resin was polymerized separately and/or when storage time was 30 days. To reduce microleakage with the Gluma Bonding System, the authors recommend polymerization of the unfilled resin before placement of the composite. PMID- 2517874 TI - The diagnosis and treatment of the cracked tooth syndrome. AB - Teeth restored with intracoronal restorations that provide no protection of the cusps from occlusal loading may fracture completely or partially. An incomplete dentinal fracture of a vital posterior tooth may cause pain. This condition is commonly known as the "cracked tooth syndrome". Location of the dentinal crack is difficult and must be guided by a precise history, thermal pulp testing and inspection of the dentinal walls within the suspect tooth. The number, extent and direction of the fracture lines may be ascertained readily by using transillumination and magnification. This allows the clinician to distinguish between oblique and vertical cracks. Treatment of oblique incomplete fracture relies on desensitisation of the hypersensitive dentine followed by splinting of the tooth fragments. Treatment of vertical incomplete fracture requires pulpectomy and immediate splinting of the crown. Two case reports are presented. PMID- 2517875 TI - The nutritional status of children in an urban squatter community in Malaysia. AB - An anthropometric assessment was conducted on a sample of 309 children, aged twelve years and below, from an urban squatter community in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The community consists mainly of Malays and Indians and is fairly established with a mean length of residence of about fifteen years. There was not much difference between the two ethnic groups with regard to educational status or income. Most of the residents were unskilled or semiskilled workers employed in factories and government agencies. About 40 percent of the infants and toddlers were found to be wasted, while about one-third of the older children were stunted. There appears to be some association between income per capita and nutritional status. PMID- 2517876 TI - An enzymatic method for distinguishing the stereoisomers of 12 hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid in human epidermis and psoriatic scale. AB - Homogenates of normal human epidermis synthesized 12-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (12-HETE) when incubated in vitro with arachidonic acid. The stereoconfigurations of the C-12 hydroxyl isomers were determined by incubation with potato 5 lipoxygenase. The synthesized substrate-specific diHETEs; 5S, 12R and 5S, 12S, were readily separated by high performance liquid chromatography. Using this novel methodology, the normal epidermis was found to synthesize predominantly 12 S-HETE while, in contrast, psoriatic scale was found to contain 12-R-HETE. The 5 lipoxygenase inhibitors, Merck L-651, 896, Takeda AA86I, and the active metabolite of Syntex lonapalene were found to inhibit 12-HETE formation in normal epidermal homogenates. PMID- 2517877 TI - Intestinal permeability in patients with atopic eczema. AB - Passive intestinal permeability was measured in 15 adult patients with atopic eczema. Values in the patients did not differ significantly from those in 12 healthy control subjects. These results suggest that altered intestinal permeability is not important in the pathogenesis of atopic eczema in adults. PMID- 2517878 TI - Circumsporozoite proteins of malaria parasites. PMID- 2517879 TI - The use of antimicrobials in dentistry. AB - The use of antimicrobials in dentistry parallels their use in medical outpatient settings. The emphasis is on patient safety rather than on the agent efficacy. Some antimicrobials should never be used as initial therapy for outpatients in dentistry or medicine. These agents carry an unacceptably high risk of adverse effects and, for use in infections that do not require hospitalization, there are adequate substitutes. Some antimicrobials should only be used infrequently, and there are a few that are recommended for extensive use. Since the initial article was published in The Compendium in 1980, a few significant advances have occurred. This article will cover these advances and will review three groups of antimicrobials, describing salient characteristics, adverse reactions, and prescribing recommendations. PMID- 2517880 TI - Effect of dentin cleansers on the bonding efficacy of dentin adhesive. AB - The relation between the bonding efficacy of the dentin adhesive and the physical change of the dentin after treatment with various dentin cleansers was investigated. The dentin surface was cleaned with one of the seven experimental dentin cleansers, 5, 10, 20, 30 and 40% of the phosphoric acid, neutralized 0.5 M EDTA solution (pH 7.4) and 9.1% pyruvic acid containing 9.1% glycine, prior to the combining application of 35% hydroxyethylmethacrylate solution (HEMA) and a marketed dentin bonding agent. It was found that the bonding efficacy of the dentin bonding system employed in this study deteriorated with the degree of reduction of Vickers hardness on the dentin surface after the dentin cleaning. PMID- 2517881 TI - [An analysis of criminal liability in a criminal case involving an epileptic]. AB - This paper presents the case of an epileptic patient who killed his wife during the intermittent period of epilepsy: three different units were asked to give the forensic psychiatric appraisement which came to three different conclusions, namely, the patient should be entitled to no criminal responsibility, partial criminal responsibility, and full criminal responsibility with respect to these three conclusions, the authors make a detailed discussion and give their own opinions. PMID- 2517882 TI - The possibilities of a clinical diagnosis of odontogenic cysts protruding into the maxillary sinuses. PMID- 2517883 TI - Cerebral motor potentials in voluntary movements. PMID- 2517884 TI - On a case of diastematomyelia. PMID- 2517885 TI - Daily fluctuation of impulses and emotions in healthy individuals. PMID- 2517886 TI - A study of the effect of corticosteroids on the serum concentration of specific beta 1-glycoprotein. PMID- 2517887 TI - Significance of a stimulating serum factor in prognosis of the course of delivery. PMID- 2517888 TI - An experimental characterisation of cholagogic and cholesteric activity of a group of essential oils. PMID- 2517891 TI - A case of Wilson-Konovalov's disease, accompanied by considerable renal tubular dysfunctions in combination with favus. PMID- 2517889 TI - On paraneoplastic dermatomyositis--"the mask" of lung carcinoma, with a case contribution. PMID- 2517890 TI - A computer programme determination of glomerular filtration of the kidneys. PMID- 2517892 TI - Improvement of predictability of subchronic and chronic toxicity studies. PMID- 2517893 TI - [Studies of the effect of a protein-free diet and branched-chain amino acids (preparation Aminosteril-Hepa) on selected biochemical indicators in chronic experimental hepatic encephalopathy]. AB - The latest observations suggest that a decreased level of serum branched-chain amino acids plays a role in the pathogenesis of liver encephalopathy. In this study we analysed the behaviour of the serum concentrations of: ammonia, phenols, alpha-amino nitrogen, tyrosine, phenylalanine and tryptophan in rats with thioacetamide-induced liver encephalopathy. The first group of rats was on protein-free diet and Aminosteril-Hepa (Fresenius FRG)--an amino acids solution with predominance of branched-chain amino acids. The second group of rats received a diet with 1 g/kg b.w. of protein daily. The levels of biochemical indices were analysed 0, 3, 5 and 7 days after liver encephalopathy development. The results of our study indicate a favourable influence of infusion a branched chain amino acids solution (Aminosteril-Hepa) on the biochemical indices, particularly phenols and alpha-amino nitrogen in experimental liver encephalopathy. PMID- 2517894 TI - [Periodontal disease in children]. AB - The authors analyze the most common periodontal diseases in pediatric age. They demonstrate that the control of the bacterial plaque is the determinant element to resolve these diseases. PMID- 2517895 TI - [Prevention: first objective of national health reform]. PMID- 2517896 TI - [Efficacy of chlorhexidine as a gel and as a mouthwash]. AB - In a short-term longitudinal study the authors intended to compare the effectiveness in controlling plaque formation and gingival inflammation of a 1% chlorhexidine gel to the one of a 0.2% chlorhexidine solution. The gel, used once a day, resulted as good as the chlorhexidine solution, but showed a localized activity. PMID- 2517897 TI - [Evaluation of stress in the dental team]. AB - With this kind of research the authors tried to evaluate if there is any relation between working activity and stress of the dental operators. They used the EGG pattern as parameter to measure the stress in order to consider both, the cardiac frequency and the possible arising of arrhythmia. Using the dynamic EGG method according to Holter, the pattern of a physician and two assistants have been registered during two working weeks. The results show the intensity of the emotional involvement of the team with particular reference to the surgery activity. PMID- 2517898 TI - [Adverse effects of wrong brushing technic]. AB - In the present study brushing lesions have been considered clinically. Toothbrushing type, frequency, and lasting of brushing seem to be not involved in the formation of such lesions, directly connected with brushing technique and pressure. PMID- 2517899 TI - [Use of interdental floss in patients with gingivitis]. PMID- 2517900 TI - [Phosphorylation of ribosomal proteins in higher and lower Eukaryotae]. PMID- 2517902 TI - Bleaching vital teeth: state of the art. PMID- 2517903 TI - Efficacy of glutaraldehyde-phenate as a disinfecting agent for high-speed dental handpieces. PMID- 2517901 TI - [Protein kinases of the central nervous system in ontogenesis]. PMID- 2517904 TI - [Irrigating substances]. PMID- 2517905 TI - [Oral isolation of Neisseria gonorrhoeae in the presence of gonococcal urethritis]. AB - The Neisseria Gonorrhoeae, the etiologic agent of the gonococcic urethritis, can produce other clinical manifestations, such as stomatitis, TMJ arthritis and sialadenitis. The investigation of this germ in the oral cavity of 50 patients with gonorrhea, was positive in only one case, which did not present any buccal symptom. It was concluded from this study that an oral gonococcic infection is extremely rare, and that the transmissibility of this germ orally is not frequent eventhough possible in theory. However the infection can spread through the blood stream and can induce other pathology. PMID- 2517907 TI - [Use of graphic computers in preparation of photos and diapositives in medical technical area]. PMID- 2517906 TI - [Lupus anticoagulant antibody (LAC) and juvenile cerebral ischemic attack: a clinical case]. AB - The lupus anticoagulant (LAC) is an acquired circulating serum immunoglobulin that prolongs all phospholipid-dependent coagulation tests. It has been recently associated with focal cerebral ischemia. We present here a case of LAC associated multiple cerebral ischemic events in a young adult and discuss laboratory criteria for a reliable diagnosis. In order to detect the presence of LAC, both the activated partial thromboplastin time (PTT), the kaolin clotting time (Exner assay) and the tissue thromboplastin inhibition assay (Schleider assay) should be evaluated. We conclude that LAC should be looked for in all young stroke patients with otherwise unexplained cerebral infarctions. PMID- 2517908 TI - [Immediate reconstruction of mandibular defects after resection of malignant tumors]. AB - The treatment modalities in our 60 patients with primary reconstruction of mandibular defects after resection of malignant tumors in the last six years were reviewed. 44 patients were men with a mean age of 58.3 years and 16 women with a mean age of 70.9 years. The operative management will be demonstrated, the results and complications will be discussed. PMID- 2517909 TI - [Mandibular reconstruction. An historical overview]. AB - In a historical review the most important technologies and auxiliary materials for lower jaw reconstruction are demonstrated and discussed. Personally developed implants for anatomical and functional reconstruction of the continuity and rigidity based on the latest experiences of bone surgery, are presented. The results of this development are demonstrated by several steps of mandibular reconstruction in a special clinical case. The discussion deals with the conclusions drawn from the historical review in comparison to our own clinical results. PMID- 2517910 TI - The influence of ABO blood groups, Rh antigens and cigarette smoking on the level of NK activity in normal population. AB - In this study we have examined the influence of ABO and Rh blood groups as well as the effect of cigarette smoking on the level of NK activity in healthy men. Blood bank donors and age-matched non-donors have been evaluated independently. As far as ABO blood groups are concerned, higher NK activity in individuals with AB blood group in comparison with those with group A and those with groups A, B, and O taken together have been demonstrated. No effect of Rh antigens on NK activity has been found. Similarly, there was no influence of cigarette smoking on NK activity. Consistently lower values of NK activity in blood bank donors in comparison with non-donors have been shown. PMID- 2517911 TI - Human placental Fc gamma receptor. Studies on affinity labeling of the receptor with IgG. AB - The aim of the presented work was to find out whether the Fc gamma receptor from human placental syncytiotrophoblast plasma membranes in its native membrane-bound state is composed of more subunit chains than previously found in our laboratory in the purified receptor. The chains might be lost during the purification procedure with the use of various chaotropic reagents, e.g. acidic or alkaline buffers, detergents. To study this problem, affinity labeling technique and bifunctional crosslinking reagents were used to covalently link IgG with the Fc gamma receptor. The reagents used were: noncleavable dimethylsuberimidate (DMS), cleavable dimethyl 3,3-dithiobispropionimidate (DTBP), and photoactivable sulfosuccinimidyl 6-/4' azido-2'nitrophenylamino/hexanoate (sulfo-SANPAH). Human 125I-IgG were crosslinked to the membrane-bound receptor or unlabeled IgG was crosslinked to 3H-labeled placental membranes. When 125I-IgG were used in the presence of an excess of unlabeled IgG, recovery of radioactivity after crosslinking was much lower, indicating that human IgG and the placental Fc gamma receptor were involved in the formation of crosslinking of ligand-receptor complexes. The products of crosslinking were analyzed in SDS-PAGE. In the absence of reducing agents, high molecular weight products were present which did not enter the gel or formed broad diffused bands at the top of the gel. Therefore, the products of crosslinking were analyzed under reducing conditions. Analysis by SDS-PAGE demonstrated a major polypeptide band Mr of 160,000 in soluble products of crosslinking of IgG to the placental Fc gamma receptor, regardless of which noncleavable crosslinker was used. The protein is built either of two molecules of the receptor subunit chain, Mr of 60,000 and one IgG heavy chain (Mr of 56,000) or of two IgG heavy chains and one molecule of the receptor chain. The presence of this protein in control samples was not observed at all or its content was markedly lower. The same effect was also observed when DTBP, a cleavable crosslinking reagent was used. In this case, 125I-IgG heavy and light chains or the receptor subunit chains were found after SDS-PAGE under reducing conditions. The results presented in this paper do not suggest a presence of additional chains in the placental Fc gamma receptor others than described in our previous paper concerning the subunit structure of this receptor. PMID- 2517912 TI - The immunomodulatory effect of CCA (N-(2-carboxyphenyl)-4-chloroanthranilic acid disodium salt) on IgG antibody response in mice immunized with ovalbumin. AB - CCA(N-(2-carboxyphenyl)-4-chloroanthranilic acid disodium salt is a new synthetic compound which structurally resembles mefenamic acid. CCA induces inhibition of the adjuvant arthritis in rats and has been reported as activator of suppressor T lymphocytes. These findings stimulated to us to elucidate whether or not CCA possesses inhibitory effects on immunoglobulin E (IgE) production, an immunological system in which T suppressor cells play a cardinal role. Mice F1 (BALB/c x C57BL/6J) and C3H/A were immunized using the procedure of several s.c. injections with low dose of ovalbumin and aluminium hydroxide gel. CCA (5 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg) was administered to mice several weeks by oral route. The titers of IgE were compared in controls and treated animals using the method of passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) in rats. At a dose of 5 mg/kg CCA reduced partially the titers of IgE in treated animals with respect to controls and at a dose of 50 mg/kg this inhibition was more pronounced. These results support a potential usefulness of CCA in bronchial asthma and other immediate type allergic disorders. PMID- 2517913 TI - Syntheses and properties of selected derivatives of pyrimido[5,4-e]-1,3-thiazine and pyrimido[4,5-d]pyrimidine. AB - In the reactions of ethyl 4-chloro/tosyloxy/-2-methylpyrimidine-5-carboxylate with differently substituted thioureas, new derivatives of 2,3-dihydro-7 methylpyrimido-[5,4-e]-1,3-thiazine (5-9) and of 7-methyl-1,2,3,4 tetrahydropyrimido[4,5-d]pyrimidine (12, 13) were obtained. Besides, some derivatives of 4-phenylamino-2-methylpyrimidine-5-carboxylic acid (15-20) were also synthesized. Structure of the compounds was confirmed by spectral analysis (IR, H-NMR) and chemical transformations. In the screening pharmacological examinations some of the compounds revealed analgesic, antiinflammatory and immunosuppressive activity. PMID- 2517914 TI - Transgenic models of diabetes. PMID- 2517915 TI - The role of ultraviolet radiation in the induction of melanocytic skin tumors in inbred mice. AB - The purpose of these studies was to determine whether ultraviolet radiation contributes to the induction of cutaneous melanocytic tumors in mice. At 4 days of age, C3H/HeNCr(MTV-) mice received an initiating dose of 7,12 dimethylbenz(a)anthracene, followed by twice weekly applications of croton oil. Of the mice treated with this protocol, 31% developed melanoma. The addition of chronic doses of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) to the carcinogen treated site dramatically accelerated the development of the melanomas. Substituting UVR for the initiator or the promoter in this two-stage carcinogenesis model resulted in the development of a few melanocytic tumors (less than 10%). These experiments demonstrate that UVR accelerated the development of cutaneous melanocytic tumors induced in mice by chemical carcinogens and participated in the induction of these tumors by serving as a weak initiator or promoter. PMID- 2517916 TI - [Rare combination of neurofibromatosis and Dandy-Walker syndrome]. AB - Treatment of patients suffering from neurofibromatosis (NF) is aimed, first of all, at the esthetical and functional impairment caused by neurofibromas of the skin, whereas vascular alterations are only rarely given prime consideration in the choice of treatment alternatives. Thus, the removal of an aneurysmic dilatation of the internal carotid artery and its replacement by interposing an autogenous vein graft in a patient with extensive neurofibromatosis of the right neck region and concurrent Dandy-Walker syndrome is reported. The characteristics of this syndrome and the question of a possible relationship between both clinical entities are discussed. PMID- 2517917 TI - Positive and negative selection of the T-cell antigen receptor repertoire in nontransgenic mice. PMID- 2517918 TI - Both TCR/MHC and accessory molecule/MHC interactions are required for positive and negative selection of mature T cells in the thymus. PMID- 2517919 TI - Control of VDJ recombinase activity. PMID- 2517920 TI - Conventional and Ly-1 B-cell lineages in normal and mu transgenic mice. PMID- 2517921 TI - Expression and function of human major histocompatibility complex HLA-DQw6 genes in the C57BL/6 mouse. PMID- 2517922 TI - Variation in HLA expression on tumors: an escape from immune response. PMID- 2517924 TI - [Combined diagnosis of parotid masses]. AB - Computed tomography (CT), ultrasonography, sialography, and 99mTc scintigraphy were applied before operation to 108 patients with parotid masses. The results of each technique and the combined study of them were compared with the pathological diagnosis. Ultrasonography was found to be a very effective diagnostic aid in determining the presence of space-occupying lesion in the parotid. CT was the best technique to provide adequately reliable informations regarding the location of the tumor and the relationship between tumor and surrounding tissues. For diagnosing the nature of tumors, ultrasonography combined with sialography was reliable. 99mTc scintigraphy was better than other techniques in diagnosis of adenolymphoma. The diagnostic accuracy of combined diagnosis (90.7%) was higher than those of ultrasonography (83%), CT (80.5%), sialography (79%), and 99mTc scintigraphy (13.9%) alone. The advantage of combined diagnosis was particularly obvious for the diagnosis of low-grade malignant tumors. PMID- 2517925 TI - [The study of holographic interferometry of the maxilla]. AB - The method which combines the removable appliance with a headgear attached to the maxillary dentition is widely used in treatment of the maxillary protrusion of growing children. The initial reaction of maxillary complex caused by the removable appliance retraction was studied by the holographic interferometry. In this paper, the results indicate that when the pull applied along the occlusal plane the maxilla was moved downward, whereas when the pall applied along the occlusal plane at 15 the maxilla was moved upward and backward. The advantage of this method and model of the experimentation was discussed in the paper. PMID- 2517923 TI - Development of oral-motor skills in the neurologically impaired child receiving non-oral feedings. AB - Treatment of children with swallowing dysfunction requires a holistic approach based on a global view of their problems and needs. The connection of the swallowing mechanism with the sensorimotor organization of postural tone and movement throughout the body is a critical factor in the evaluation and treatment of children whose dysphagia is rooted in a neurologic disorder. An appropriate program includes work with the development of movement skills, sensory processing, learning, social skills, and communication. The initial focus is placed on oral-motor treatment, rather than direct work on oral feeding. The primary goal of the program is to develop the appropriate use of the mouth, respiratory, and phonatory systems in exploration, sound play, and as much oral feeding as possible. Oral feeding is the by-product of a total program, not its major goal. PMID- 2517926 TI - [The ultrastructure of human enamel organs]. AB - The ultrastructural features of enamel organs from 3 human fetus were examined in this study. There were few and simple organelles in the inner enamel epithelium, this imply that these cells were not active ones. Comparing with the inner enamel epithelium, the ameloblasts showed active functional condition. They had a large amount of mitochondria, enlarged rough endoplasmic reticulum and well developed Golgi apparatus in the distal cytoplasm. On the top of the ameloblasts, Tomes' processes were formed. In the Tomes' processes, there were numerous vesicles containing "stippled material". This kind of material also could be seen in the spaces between the Tomes' processes and the enamel matrix, and in the vesicles of the Golgi apparatus. Ultrastructurally, each enamel matrix invagination received a large part of process of an ameloblast and a small part of another ameloblast. But the meaning of this structure were unclear. Tight junctions were found at the distal part of the ameloblasts. The stratum intermedium cells, beside the ameloblasts, had a lot of small processes protecting into the intercellular spaces. Gap junctions were found between all enamel organ cells, and illustrated that there were active material transmissions between these cells. PMID- 2517927 TI - [SEM observation of the interface between hydroxyapatite ceramic and metal compound implant materials]. AB - This article described the results of interface between HAP ceramic and metal compound system when the bio-glass burning method was used with Scanning Electro microscope (SEM). According to the results, the author concluded that as a method of forming compound implant system, bio-glass is a good vehicle between HAP and Co-Cr alloy; Ti alloy; and Ni-Cr alloy when the burning method was used. PMID- 2517928 TI - [Treated experimental premalignant oral lesion transplants in nude mice]. PMID- 2517929 TI - [A study and clinical appliance of super-strength composite resins]. PMID- 2517930 TI - [Assessment of methods to measure the vitality of dental pulp]. PMID- 2517931 TI - [A PM visible light-cured dental bonding agent]. AB - In order to get a better adhesion, less tooth abrasion and a good marginal sealing, bonding agent was used in the composites restorations. PM visible light cured bonding agent containing coupling agent 4-META was made. Polyfunctional monomer was used as the resin matrix. CQ and PA were used as the initiator. The tensile bonding strength of this bondx286p4ent to enamel was 84.5 kg/cm2. The shear bonding strength of this bonding agent to enamel when used with visible light cured composites together was 317.3 kg/cm2, which was higher then the report in the recent literatures. PM visible light cured bonding agent got a satisfied clinical result. PMID- 2517932 TI - [The treatment of maxillofacial hemangioma with transcatheter embolization]. AB - Preliminary experience obtained from 7 cases with maxillofacial hemangioma treated with the external carotid arterial transcatheter embolization is presented. Of the 7 cases 2 were diagnosed as racemose hemangioma, 1 case as cavernous hemangioma and 4 cases as central mandibular and zygomatic arch cavernous hemangioma. External carotid arterial transcatheter embolization was adopted as radical treatment of hemangioma in 3 cases. Of them, excellent result was achieved in 1 case, and good in 2. Embolization was used as preoperative preparation for the treatment of hemangioma in 2 cases. Two operations were successfully performed and the results of hemostasis were excellent during the operation. The arterial transcatheter was all performed with Seldinger technique and through transfemoral approach. The embolization agents used included gel form, absolute ethanol, medical TH glue, sodium morrhuate, etc. The advantages of this method, and the relationships between the properties of the embolization agents and the effect of embolization, the physiological function of the target organ and the complication are discussed and evaluated. PMID- 2517933 TI - [Use of dense polycrystal particulate hydroxyapatite artificial bone implant in augmentation of deficient alveolar ridges]. AB - The preliminary results of dense polycrystal particulate hydroxylapatite artificial bone implant procedures in a group of 14 mandibular alveolar ridges atrophy patient is reported. Clinical studies show that this material has very good biocompatibility. Subjective and objective data show that the implant was successful for all varieties of mandibular alveolar ridges, the height, bulk, contour, and ridge form were generally improved, and soft tissue overlying the augmented ridges was firm and immobile. Impressions for dentures were usually obtained 4-8 weeks after surgery, and the dentures were more stable, retentive, and esthetically pleasing than the preoperative ones. It is concluded that hydroxylapatite particles placed through a subperiosteal tunnel offer a highly successful method of ridge augmentation. PMID- 2517934 TI - [Observations on human natural dental plaque associated with normal, periodontally diseased and carious teeth by scanning electron microscopy]. AB - A study on the structure of human natural dental plaque on the mesial surface of normal teeth, gingivitis teeth, periodontitis teeth, juvenile periodontitis teeth and carious teeth was carried out using scanning electron microscopy. The aim of this study was to contrast their mutual structure characteristics. From this investigation it can be concluded that 1. the structure and microbial composition of the dental plaque differs markedly in normal teeth, periodontally diseased teeth and carious teeth. 2. the significant higher proportion of spirochetes in subgingival plaque plays an active role in the pathogenesis of periodontitis. 3. the results of this study also point out that the pathogenic agents and pathogenesis differ in gingivitis, periodontitis, juvenile periodontitis and caries. PMID- 2517935 TI - [Radiologic studies of mandibular pathologic changes in 175 cases of phosphorus handling workers]. PMID- 2517936 TI - [Clinical investigation of oral submucous fibrosis]. AB - In the Xiang Tan city of the Hunan Province 3015 adult of betel were examined intra-orally. Twenty-nine cases of oral submucous fibrosis were found. Other five cases were collected from out-patient department of the hospital. There were thirty-four cases altogether. In the control group, no case was found. The patients of submucous fibrosis were not chewers of tobacco. Four cases of leukoplakia has been found in them. There was not, however, a single case of oral cancer. The clinical investigation supports that chewing of betel is an important etiological factor of oral submucous fibrosis. PMID- 2517937 TI - [Experimental model of oral ulceration in rabbits]. PMID- 2517938 TI - [Determination of radiation doses on the teeth exposed during dental and other general purpose X-ray examinations]. PMID- 2517939 TI - [The application of monoclonal antibodies in oral biology]. PMID- 2517940 TI - [Current status and advances in transcatheter selective arterial embolization in the head and neck]. PMID- 2517941 TI - New treatment for furcation defects involving strategic molars. PMID- 2517942 TI - Treatment modalities for maxillofacial fractures. PMID- 2517944 TI - Infection control update: beware of the ragwheel. AB - Previously, concern about infection control in dentistry emphasized the handpiece, operator safety, barrier technique, and patient protection in the dental operatory. As current knowledge of infection control increases an expanded understanding of other sources of disease transmission is indicated. Often overlooked is the dental laboratory of which particular interest focuses on the lathes used in preparing prosthetic appliances, castings, orthodontic appliances, and surgical stents. Specifically, the potential threat of the ragwheel to the patient and operator is significant. Ragwheels and pumice samples were collected and cultured, the results of which mandate the need for infection control guidelines for the dental laboratory. PMID- 2517943 TI - Calcium hydroxide uses in dentistry. PMID- 2517945 TI - Successful treatment of the pediatric patient in the general dental office. PMID- 2517946 TI - The cracked tooth syndrome. PMID- 2517947 TI - Calciphylaxis. PMID- 2517948 TI - Role of MHC, Mls and TCR in immune tolerance. AB - MHC class II molecules and self antigens, such as Mls, influence T-cell selection by clonal deletion of potentially self-reactive T cells. In order to examine the role of various class II molecules in the T-cell receptor-self antigen interaction, class II transgenic and recombinant mice were analysed for TCR expression. Our studies indicate that the A alpha and E alpha chains can present Mls gene products for the clonal deletion of V beta 6-bearing T cells, and that the A alpha q chain is defective in this process. We have also shown that E alpha A beta heterodimer in transgenic and recombinant mice is expressed and functions to delete I-E reactive V beta llT cells, demonstrating again the role of the E alpha molecule. PMID- 2517949 TI - Post-transcriptional downregulation of MHC class I expression in oncogene transformed cells is reverted by IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha. AB - Transformation of murine NIH3T3 fibroblasts with retroviral vectors carrying the mos, myc and the Ha-ras oncogene, respectively, was associated with a strong reduction of H2 antigen expression in the cell membrane. Analysis of H-2K and beta 2-microglobulin promoter-driven CAT activity in these oncogenic transformants and normal NIH3T3 fibroblasts revealed unchanged promoter activity, suggesting post-transcriptional control of MHC class I expression by these oncogenes. Treatment with IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha caused 2- to 3-fold enhancement of H-2K and beta 2-microglobulin promoter activity, as well as a normalization (TNF-alpha treatment) or enhancement (IFN-gamma treatment) of H2 membrane expression. These data suggest that IFN-gamma as well as TNF-alpha can counteract downregulation of H-2 genes by interference with an oncogene-induced, post transcriptional block as well as by a direct enhancement of H-2 gene transcription. PMID- 2517950 TI - Generation of syngeneic anti-tumour double negative cells (CD4- CD8-), with cytotoxic activity against clones of different MHC class I expression. AB - In vivo immunization and secondary culture techniques were used to generate cytotoxic T lymphocytes against a tumour cell clone obtained from a methylcholantrene-induced fibrosarcoma. Our CTLs differed from classical CTLs (Ly2+ and MHC restricted) in that our lymphocytes exhibited a non-MHC restricted cytotoxic activity directed to the original tumour and to other MCA-induced tumours, but have failed to demonstrate any killing activity against a wide range of tumour cell lines of diverse origin (including NK sensitive targets). Depletion and phenotypic studies demonstrated that these cells bear the Thyl.2 antigen but are negative for both Ly2 and L3T4 antigens. These CTLs may belong to a double negative subset (CD4-, CD8-) involved in the anti-tumour response. PMID- 2517951 TI - MHC class I expression on human tumour cells and their susceptibility to NK lysis. AB - Although natural killer (NK) activity is not restricted by the major histocompatibility complex (MHC), it has been suggested that the level of expression of MHC antigens by target cells may influence their lysis by NK cells. We have studied the NK susceptibility of 20 cell lines obtained from primitive and metastatic human tumours and the K562 cell line treated with gamma interferon, phorbol ester TPA and tumour factor NK-RIF. When the levels of MHC class I antigen expression on the human tumour cell lines and their NK susceptibility were compared, no relationship between these two parameters was observed. Furthermore the treatment of K562 with either gamma-interferon, TPA or NK-RIF decreased its NK susceptibility independently of MHC class I expression. These results indicate that the MHC class I antigen is not the only factor directly involved in NK susceptibility and suggest that other membrane structures modulated by gamma-interferon, TPA or NK-RIF may also influence NK susceptibility. PMID- 2517953 TI - Pulpal response to irradiation of enamel with continuous wave CO2 laser. AB - Selected dog's teeth, in vivo, were exposed to carbon dioxide (CO2) laser power densities ranging from 13 to 102 J per cm2. The teeth were extracted 48 h postlasing, fixed with 10% neutral buffered formalin, decalcified with Kristensen's solution, processed, sectioned, stained, and evaluated for pulpal damage. No pulpal damage was observed when compared with nonlased control teeth. It appears that carbon dioxide laser power densities of approximately 13 to 102 J per cm2 could be used to irradiate enamel of teeth without damage to the pulp. PMID- 2517952 TI - Effects of sterilization procedures on the cutting efficiency of stainless steel and carbon steel Gates Glidden drills. AB - One-hundred fifty carbon steel Gates Glidden drills were compared with 150 stainless steel Gates Glidden drills before and after sterilization in an autoclave, salt beads, dry heat, or 2% alkaline glutaraldehyde. Cutting efficiency and separation rates of the drills were evaluated. Stainless steel #1 and 2 Gates Glidden drills resisted separation and maintained their cutting efficiency statistically better than the carbon steel #1 and 2 Gates Glidden drills after one sterilization cycle in an autoclave, salt bead sterilizer, or dry heat oven. Glutaraldehyde did not effect either type of drill. PMID- 2517955 TI - [Mucopolysaccharidosis]. AB - The mucopolysaccharidoses comprise a heterogeneous group of inborn errors of metabolism. Usually these disorders culminate in severe disability over many years, and only seldom result in death in infancy. The prospect of gaining a certain amount of control over the incidence and progression of these rare but costly diseases amply justifies the large amount of effort and expense devoted to research into their causation. PMID- 2517954 TI - [Class II Tunnel restorations of glass-ionomer-silver-Cermet cement and composite]. PMID- 2517956 TI - [The role of capnographic studies in present-day medicine]. PMID- 2517959 TI - [Importance of fissure sealants in daily practice]. PMID- 2517958 TI - [Optical and scanning electron microscope study of gingival microleakage in Class II composite restorations]. AB - It has been studied the gingival microleakage and the polymerization contraction gap in composites class II restorations. The influence of two different composites, a microparticle [Heliomolar (Vivadent)] and a high filled one [P-50 (3M)], has been compared with different adhesion systems: a) gingival enamel acid etch technique. b) Dentinal adhesives [Gluma (Bayer) and Scotchbond 2 (3M)]. c) A adhesive varnish [Dentin Protector (Vivadent)]. The gingival microleakage is only prevented when a microparticle composite [Heliomolar (Vivadent)] and a adhesive varnish [Dentin Protector (Vivadent)] are used together. PMID- 2517957 TI - On the role of intracellular physicochemistry in quantitative gene expression during aging and the effect of centrophenoxine. A review. AB - The turnover of proteins in biological systems is due mostly to an ever-occurring damaging (cross-linking) effect of the OH. free radicals. The replacement of the damaged proteins requires a continuous gene expression. A key issue of experimental gerontology is why the gene expression maintains the fidelity but loses the speed during aging. The membrane hypothesis of aging (MHA) proposes a cellular mechanism based on the fact that the more compact cellular structures (e.g., membranes) are damaged faster than the more diluted ones (e.g., cytosol). In addition, the cell membrane is exposed also to the residual heat-induced damage deriving from a frequent discharge of its electric polarity. Therefore, one can assume that even an extremely small incompleteness of the replacement of the damaged membrane components per turnover cycle may result in an error accumulation, which may be responsible first for the inhibition of growth, then for aging of cells. In agreement with this hypothesis, neurons display a life long, gradual loss of the passive potassium permeability of the cell membrane, resulting in a continuous dehydration of the intracellular mass, i.e., an increase of physical density. Theory and experimental models show that this latter process causes a slowing down of all enzyme functions including those realizing the gene expression and the elimination of the damaged components. Increase of the dry mass content of cells and tissues is an obligatory process for maturation; however, later on it leads to aging. The known nootropic effects of centrophenoxine (CPH) can be interpreted on the basis of the OH. radical scavenger properties of dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE) which is incorporated in the neuronal membranes of the brain in form of phosphatidyl-DMAE. The protective effects of CPH (and of similar, newly synthesized other drugs) on the membrane components can slow down the age-dependent deteriorations of the intracellular physicochemistry, in agreement with the predictions of the MHA. PMID- 2517960 TI - Some effects of Ledermix paste and Pulpdent paste on mouse fibroblasts and on bacteria in vitro. AB - Dilutions of Ledermix paste, Pulpdent paste and a mixture of equal parts by weight of Ledermix paste and Pulpdent paste were added to in vitro cultures of mouse fibroblasts or bacteria for 24 h, and various cell functions were then examined: mitosis in and survival of fibroblasts, and survival of Lactobacillus casei or Streptococcus mutans. Ledermix was found to reversibly inhibit mitosis while present in the concentrations range 10(-3) to 10(-6) mg/ml. Mixing with Pulpdent did not modify this antimitotic effect. Ledermix killed mouse fibroblasts at 10(-3) mg/ml and above, while Pulpdent killed at 1 mg/ml and above. The toxic effect of Ledermix was slightly inhibited by mixing it with Pulpdent. Ledermix killed S. mutans at about the same concentration at which it killed the mammalian cells, but required a one thousand-fold greater concentration to kill L. casei. Pulpdent killed both L. casei and S. mutans at approximately one-fifth of the concentration at which it killed the mammalian cells. Pulpdent slightly potentiated the antibacterial effect of Ledermix. The pH of Pulpdent was reduced by approximately 0.3 units by mixing with Ledermix. The present data showed that the 50:50 mix of Ledermix and Pulpdent retained the properties examined that are thought to be of therapeutic benefit, while not increasing the toxicity of the component parts to mammalian cells. PMID- 2517961 TI - [Canthaxanthin retinopathy and macular pucker]. AB - Canthaxanthine retinopathy is a crystalline retinopathy following oral ingestion of canthaxanthine-containing drugs. We describe the clinical course of a patient with canthaxanthine retinopathy and a preexisting idiopathic macular pucker. The ultrastructural findings of the macular pucker removed by vitreoretinal surgery are demonstrated. Granular material and lipid-like droplets, not usual for a macular pucker, are the major findings in this membrane. There is evidence that the granular material consists of canthaxanthine deposits, phagozytized by the cells of the epiretinal membrane. PMID- 2517963 TI - [The effect of antibiotics on the prevention of infection in premature infants with asphyxia]. PMID- 2517962 TI - Pseudomonas fluorescens isolated from the diseased rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss. AB - Pseudomonas fluorescens was isolated from the diseased rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss, in Iwate Prefecture. Typical symptoms of the diseased fish were hemorrhage at the bases of fin and anal region, and internally, petechia of each organ, especially the intestine. This bacterium was pathogenic to rainbow trout and Tilapia, Sarotherodon niloticus. PMID- 2517964 TI - Some familial dynamic aspects in drug abusers. AB - In some families drug abuse may be seen as a failed attempt at individuation. Family therapy cannot succeed unless a variety of factors, including guilt, are seen as related to family dynamics. PMID- 2517965 TI - Israeli drug cases: field research. AB - This survey describes the general traits of drug-related crimes, the offenders and the judicial decisions. But statistics do not cure. Ways must be sought to discover the hidden powers that drive the drug phenomenon. PMID- 2517966 TI - The role of the psychiatric nurse in the prevention and treatment of alcoholism at the Avalon Treatment Centre, Cape Town. AB - The Centre serves a large urban population. Its efforts to prevent alcoholism, mainly through education, are described, as are its treatment modes. PMID- 2517967 TI - Ethical and legal aspects to death: the burial. AB - As a form of ritualized behaviour, the burial promotes and maintains the emotional well-being of the individual and the social cohesion of the group. Sources of burial law in Southern Africa are summarized and the present legal situation with regard to burial is given in some detail. Fulton sums up the essence of our subject historically and comparatively as follows: 'Burial of the dead is an ancient practice among men. From paleolithic times to the present, man has responded to the death of his fellow man with solemnity and ceremony. The event of death has evoked not only a religious awe in men, but its threat to the survival of communal life has also engendered fear, just as its disruption of family life has aroused sorrow.' PMID- 2517968 TI - Psychiatric testimony in Britain. AB - In the criminal-justice system psychiatric evidence may be relevant both before and after conviction. The scope of psychiatric testimony in the criminal courts has been more restricted in Britain than it has been elsewhere. It is generally confined to questions of fitness to plead, responsibility and disposal after conviction. A distinction must be made between matters of clinical psychiatry and those of moral culpability or legal competence. When psychiatric evidence strays from purely clinical questions there is an increased likelihood of misuse and abuse. Even when considering clinical issues there are factors of a non-clinical nature which may distort the type of evidence given. The implications of these matters for psychiatric witnesses are discussed. It is suggested that forensic psychiatrists are refining their role as expert witnesses. PMID- 2517969 TI - Irresistible impulse: psychiatric viewpoint. AB - The responses of the psychiatric profession to the legal criteria applied to irresistible impulse in cases of psychotic offenders are examined. An illustrative case, and its legal consequences, support the desirability of the psychiatric approach. PMID- 2517970 TI - Irresistible impulse: legal viewpoint. AB - The legal point of view concerning irresistible impulse as an exemption from criminal liability is discussed. A defendant who pleads that at the time of committing an illegal act he was suffering from a mental disease must prove to the court that his version is the most possible one. PMID- 2517971 TI - Should a patient have access to his medical records. AB - An investigation is undertaken into the right of a patient to have access to medical records concerning himself, and the ownership of medical records and X ray photographs is discussed. It is argued that record accessibility by patients is to favoured. The current situation in England and the United States of America is considered and proposals de lege ferenda are made with respect to South Africa. The author is of the opinion that the South African legislature should consider legislation in this regard. PMID- 2517973 TI - New initiatives by the Metropolitan Police in the investigation of rape. PMID- 2517972 TI - Admissibility of biochemical analyses results from sexual assault evidence in the United States courts. AB - Physiological stains in sexual assault cases have the potential to provide useful information. A comparison of genetic marker types in evidence semen stains and/or saliva stains to the corresponding genetic markers in the blood of a suspect may exclude the man as the perpetrator of the crime. If the genetic markers match, identification is inconclusive but may tend to support other circumstantial or eyewitness evidence of guilt. Potential for error is particularly high with physiological stain evidence because of its susceptibility to physical and chemical degradation. Furthermore, secretions (vaginal fluids, saliva, perspiration) from the victim are commonly mixed with the evidence specimens (semen, saliva) of the assailant. Certain genetic markers from the victim may mask those of the assailant. In many US crime laboratories there are no professional qualifications or requirements for the analysts assigned to this type of work. There is little administrative enforcement of quality control. Triers-of-fact are unaware that the data presented by the analyst are unverified and that the analyst's conclusions may be based on incorrect results. PMID- 2517974 TI - Incest: psychological, legal and ethical considerations. AB - The psychological, legal and ethical considerations in treating victims and prosecuting offenders in the United States are described, and the dilemmas highlighted by the use of a detailed case study of an incest victim. PMID- 2517975 TI - Drinking and the perpetuation of social inequality in Australia. PMID- 2517976 TI - Dying with dignity: developments in the field of euthanasia in The Netherlands. AB - The development of the debate on euthanasia in The Netherlands, the role of the courts and proposals for legislation are discussed. In foreign newspapers and other publications an erroneous picture of the Dutch situation on euthanasia is sometimes given. In Parliament two proposals for legislation are pending. The parliamentary debate is expected to be reopened in 1989. PMID- 2517977 TI - The attitude of the doctor to the refusal of the cancer patient to accept chemotherapy. AB - The research examined the attitude of the doctor to the refusal of 70 cancer patients being treated at five onocological institutes in Israel to accept chemotherapy. A connection was found between the doctor's attitude on the one hand and the diagnosis, level of illness and patient's age on the other. In other words, the doctor will not attempt to persuade every patient who refuses chemotherapy to accept the treatment. PMID- 2517978 TI - The right of the nurse to detain informal patients in psychiatric hospitals in England and Wales. AB - Attitudes of psychiatric hospital staff, particularly nurses, were gathered by means of a questionnaire. The question in issue centred on section 5 of the Mental Health Act, 1983, which empowers certain nurses to restrain patients from leaving the hospital. PMID- 2517979 TI - [Radiation xerostomia]. AB - In this paper the Authors examined several techniques of radiation therapy of head and neck neoplasis including tumors of the salivary glands. X-ray therapy presents some side-effects, in particular xerostomia is the most serious one in the oral cavity. Furthermore, the Authors discuss the more useful techniques to determine the various degrees of xerostomia also to correlate this symptom with salivary gland damage and to establish a adequate therapy. PMID- 2517980 TI - Recovery of MAO-B enzyme activity after (-)deprenyl (selegiline) pretreatment, measured in vivo. AB - The recovery of MAO-B activity after a single dose of 0.25 mg/kg s.c. (-)deprenyl was measured in rat, by following the time course of the changes in the PEA (phenyl-ethylamine)-induced hyperactivity. One hour after its administration ( )deprenyl enhanced both the PEA-induced locomotion and stereotypy, however, its effect on the latter was more marked. At 24 h and at later time-points only stereotype was enhanced. The results show that a single small dose of (-)deprenyl which selectively blocks MAO-B, causes a long-lasting inhibition of PEA metabolism, and the enzyme activity needs more than one week to restore completely. PMID- 2517981 TI - The influence of PTH, calcium gluconate and EDTA on the parotid saliva in the goat. AB - 1. The role of exogenous parathyroid hormone (PTH) and stimulation or inhibition of endogenous hormone release, on the parotid gland of normal and thyroparathyroidectomized (t.x.p.t.x.) goats was studied. 2. The intravenous infusion of PTH and EDTA produced a transitory rise in saliva flow rate in intact animals. In t.x.p.t.x. goats the flow of saliva decreased transiently throughout the infusion. 3. The calcium levels in parotid saliva was unchanged throughout the infusion of PTH, EDTA, calcium gluconate both alone or with propranolol, in either intact or t.x.p.t.x. animals. 4. The parathyroid hormone infusion caused an increase in salivary phosphate concentration in both intact and operated goats. The effects of PTH upon the salivary flow and concentration of P are discussed. PMID- 2517982 TI - Antiphospholipid antibodies and reproduction. AB - Antiphospholipid antibodies (APAs) may be identified in the laboratory by using either coagulation studies or solid-phase immunologic assays (ELISA; RIA). These methodologies do not necessarily evaluate the same antibody; consequently, it is appropriate to screen a patient's plasma by utilizing both assays. APAs have been associated with a variety of obstetrical complications including recurrent spontaneous abortion, intrauterine fetal death, early onset preeclampsia, deep vein thrombosis, and postpartum serositis syndrome. The Kaolin Clotting Time appears to be the most sensitive coagulation test for identifying the lupus anticoagulant. However, preliminary studies would suggest the presence of anticardiolipin antibodies as detected by solid-phase assays are more sensitive and predictive of the clinical course. Although there are no prospective trials to analyze treatment of patients with APA, preliminary data suggest the use of prednisone in combination with aspirin significantly improves the probability of delivery of a viable infant. In addition, heparin, intravenous gammaglobulin, and exchange plasmaphoresis have all been tried with varying degrees of success in individual patients in small series. PMID- 2517983 TI - Quicker and sicker: how changes in Medicare affect the elderly and their families. PMID- 2517984 TI - What DRGs mean to the patient and the provider. AB - What are the effects of DRGs on patients and providers? I have attempted to provide some insights from my own experience and that of others. But I think we must not lose sight of the fact that it is very difficult to determine the specific effects of DRGs in light of all the other environmental factors that contribute to the intensity of patient services and care provider stress and work load. To what extent does the general aging of the population itself contribute to these issues? People would still be getting older, and chronic disease would continue to increase, even if a prospective payment system using DRGs was not in place. Medical technology has not been capped and the explosion of knowledge still directs much of the medical practice related to increased intensity of care. A financially driven health care system was put into place shortly after the implementation of Medicare, when it became obvious how quickly the costs of health care were rising. In many ways it is impossible to say what the specific effects of the DRG system have been on the patient and the provider. Perhaps it is only a little, but, quite frankly, it does not really feel that way to those who are in the mainstream of providing care. PMID- 2517985 TI - The prospective payment system: DRGs and the frail elderly--issues, problems, and recommendations. PMID- 2517986 TI - Voltage-gated and agonist-mediated rises in intracellular Ca2+ in rat clonal pituitary cells (GH3) held under voltage clamp. AB - 1. Intracellular free calcium (Ca2+i) was estimated in single GH3 cells by dual wavelength emission spectrofluorimetry using the Ca2+ indicator dye Indo-1, while cells were held under voltage clamp using patch clamp techniques. 2. Depolarization of cells evoked a transient rise in Ca2+i that increased with increasing duration of depolarization to a peak at about 10 s. 3. Calcium transients showed a bell-shaped dependence on the amplitude of the depolarizing pulse. They were abolished in the absence of extracellular calcium and by application of 10 microM-nifedipine. 4. Thyrotrophin-releasing hormone (TRH) evoked a transient rise in Ca2+i that was followed by a more sustained period of elevated Ca2+i in some cells. The transient phase of the response but not the sustained phase was seen in the absence of extracellular calcium. 5. Ca2+i transients evoked by depolarization were not affected by pre-release of internal Ca2+ stores with TRH. 6. The results demonstrate that voltage-gated Ca2+ entry and Ca2+ store release can each elevate cytoplasmic free calcium in GH3 cells and may both be important for stimulus-secretion coupling. Non-voltage-gated Ca2+ entry is not a major source of Ca2+ under these conditions. PMID- 2517987 TI - The effects of vagal stimulation and applied acetylcholine on the sinus venosus of the toad. AB - 1. The effects of vagal stimulation and applied acetylcholine were compared on the isolated sinus venosus preparation of the toad, Bufo marinus. 2. The effects of applied acetylcholine and of low-frequency, or short bursts of high-frequency vagal stimulation were abolished by hyoscine. 3. When intracellular recordings were made from muscle cells of the sinus venosus, it was found that applied acetylcholine caused bradycardia and a cessation of the heart beat which was associated with membrane hyperpolarization and a reduction in the duration of the action potentials. Much of the effect of acetylcholine can be attributed to it causing an increase in potassium conductance, gK. 4. When slowing was produced by low-frequency vagal stimulation, only a small increase in maximum diastolic potential was detected. During vagal arrest the membrane potential settled to a potential positive of the control maximum diastolic potential. 5. In the presence of barium, much of the bradycardia associated with vagal stimulation persisted. Although the bradycardia produced by added acetylcholine also persisted in the presence of barium, the effects of acetylcholine that could be attributed to an increase in gK were abolished. 6. Addition of caesium ions produced bradycardia with membrane potential changes similar to those seen during vagal stimulation. 7. The results are discussed in relation to the idea that neuronally released acetylcholine reduces inward current flow during diastole. In contrast applied acetylcholine as well as reducing inward current flow during diastole also increases outward current flow by increasing gK. PMID- 2517988 TI - Intracellular calcium and tension during fatigue in isolated single muscle fibres from Xenopus laevis. AB - 1. Single muscle fibres were dissected from Xenopus lumbrical muscles and microinjected with the photoprotein aequorin in order to measure the myoplasmic free calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i). Fatigue was produced by repeated intermittent tetanic stimulation continued until tension had declined to approximately 50% of the initial level. Fibres were then allowed to recover by giving tetani at less frequent intervals. Aequorin light (a measure of [Ca2+]i) and tension were measured during fatiguing stimulation and recovery. 2. During fatiguing stimulation, tetanic tension declined steadily, but peak aequorin light first increased before declining substantially. The largest light signal was about 155% of initial control while at the end of fatiguing stimulation the tetanic light fell to about 14% of control. 3. Fibres showed a characteristic slowing of relaxation in the fatigued state. This was associated with a slowing of the rate of decline of the aequorin light signal. 4. Intracellular acidosis produced by equilibrating the Ringer solution with either 5 or 15% CO2 caused an increase in the light signal associated with a tetanus. Carbon dioxide also caused a reduction of tension and a slowing of relaxation. 5. In vivo pCa-tension curves were constructed by exposing the fibres to a series of K+ concentrations which produced contractures of different sizes. Light and tension were measured during periods when both were relatively stable and the light signal was subsequently converted to pCa. 6. Exposure of fibres to 5 or 15% CO2 caused the pCa-tension curve to be shifted to the right of the control curve. This indicates a reduced Ca2+ sensitivity of the contractile proteins, which is in agreement with results from skinned fibre studies. 7. The pCa-tension points obtained from tetani during the early part of fatiguing stimulation also deviated to the right of the control pCa-tension curve, suggesting a reduced Ca2+ sensitivity of the contractile proteins. At the end of fatiguing stimulation, however, pCa-tension points did not differ greatly from the control pCa-tension curve, suggesting that Ca2+ sensitivity was approximately normal. Thus the reduced [Ca2+]i during tetani at the end of fatiguing stimulation (when tension was reduced to approximately 50%) could explain all of the reduction in tension. 8. After fatiguing stimulation, tension and light recovered monotonically in some fibres; however, in the majority of fibres, tension and light showed a secondary decline followed by a slower recovery (post-contractile depression). 9. During post-contractile depression, caffeine contractures or tetani in the presence of caffeine gave increased aequorin light signals and the tension developed was close to that produced in an unfatigued tetanus.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2517989 TI - Identification of Mycoplasma binding proteins utilizing a 100 kilodalton lung fibroblast receptor. AB - A 100 kilodalton glycoprotein receptor for Mycoplasma pneumoniae has been isolated from MRC-5 human lung fibroblasts. This receptor, as well as anti receptor serum, were both capable of inhibiting the attachment of 14C-labelled M. pneumoniae to MRC-5 fibroblasts. The receptor was also capable of inhibiting the attachment of C-labelled M. gallisepticum and M. genitalium, but not M. pulmonis, to MRC-5 fibroblasts. This indicates that a common sequence may exist in these binding proteins of M. pneumoniae, M. genitalium, and M. gallisepticum. This receptor and anti-receptor serum were utilized to probe M. pneumoniae, M. genitalium, and M. gallisepticum for their corresponding binding proteins. A 32 kilodalton protein in M. pneumoniae, a 90 kilodalton protein in M. genitalium and a 139 kilodalton protein in M. gallisepticum were recognized. PMID- 2517991 TI - Life insurance and HIV testing: insurance theory, discrimination and solutions. AB - Part 1 describes briefly how the market for life insurance deals with HIV infection and how society has reacted to its policies. Part 2 examines the arguments for and against HIV testing: does it discriminate against individuals or is it just a logical extension of risk estimation procedures and underwriting techniques? In part 3 possible solutions are considered. Are solutions in the private sector, like banning HIV testing, warranted, should we look for a public solution that does not burden the private insurance industry, or is a mixed public-private solution desirable? PMID- 2517990 TI - Developing ethical public policy on reproduction and prenatal research: whose interests deserve what protection? AB - Have physicians and medical researchers begun to play God? Many procedures, including in vitro fertilization, involve treating and transferring embryos: this constitutes experimentation on human beings without the capacity to consent. Will medical ethics meet an increasing societal commitment towards ever greater respect and protection of human life from non-therapeutic experimentation? The medico-ethical aspects of this sensitive and complex issue are examined in detail. PMID- 2517993 TI - The case for teaching nursing ethics. AB - This article stresses importance of teaching nursing ethics on the ground that 1) courses in bioethics which focus on the role of the physician as the paradigmatic health-care provider belie the actual nature of our health-care system and misplace the locus of much of the responsibility for how patients, especially hospitalized patients, fare. In addition, 2) the study of nursing ethics draws attention to issues which, though they arise for the nurse in quite specific nursing situations, nonetheless highlight what is important in the study of moral relations generally, and bring to the fore important general questions about the nature of moral responsibility itself. Finally, 3) it is argued that the very defining concepts of the nursing profession are themselves of philosophical and ethical interest. Note is taken of the concern expressed by those in the nursing profession regarding the lack of humanities education and suggestions are made for introducing the study of nursing ethics into nursing and philosophy curricula. PMID- 2517992 TI - The provision for health needs in less developed countries with reference to Bophuthatswana. PMID- 2517994 TI - The court appointment of expert witnesses in the United States: a failed experiment. AB - In most civil-law countries the judges appoint the expert witnesses to ensure the witnesses' scientific objectivity. However, in the vast majority of cases in the United States, as in most common-law countries, the practice is that private litigants select the expert witnesses. There has been severe criticism of that practice. The federal courts in the United States and several state courts recently experimented with a statute authorizing more widespread use of court appointed experts. The author demonstrates that the experiment failed and explains the reasons for the failure. PMID- 2517995 TI - Extraversion, neuroticism, immoral judgment and criminal behaviour. AB - The present study examines delinquent behaviour by integrating two approaches until now employed separately: Eysnck's theory linking delinquency to extraversion and neuroticism, and Kohlberg's theory of moral development and its connection to moral behaviour. The study analyzes the relations between extraversion, neuroticism and moral judgment, as well as their independent and/or interactive effect upon the development of anti-social behaviour. The relationships are tested by retrospective measurements of personality traits and moral judgment in three groups: delinquency (N = 203), control (N = 82) and comparative (N = 407) groups. Findings show that criminals are higher than control subjects in neuroticism and immoral judgment but not in extraversion. Similar relationships were found between criminals and the comparative group, with one exception: here extraversion was found to be positively related to delinquency, both independently and interactively with neuroticism. The implications of these results for differential development of anti-social behaviour are discussed. PMID- 2517997 TI - Psychiatric evidence in extenuation: assessment and testimony in homicide defendants. AB - The role of psychiatric evaluation and testimony on 202 cases demonstrates the participation of mental health experts in the legal process. The majority of these cases fall outside the mental abnormal groupings of 'incompetent to stand trial' or 'criminal insane'. A finding of diminished responsibility on account of mental illness provides for a finding of extenuating circumstances on account of mental illness. The numerous factors and categories influencing the defendant's behaviour are specific to each, requiring presentation for the court's discretion as to significance of psychiatric factors in extenuation of sentence. The population studies as representative of psychiatric extenuation are a personal consecutive sample of court referrals for formal evaluation undertaken in a psychiatric hospital unit. Reasons for referral all include possible psychiatric disorder. One third of referrals were accused of killing a family member. Alcohol and drugs were contributory to the behaviour in 50 per cent of cases. The contributions of witchcraft and history of head injury to the sample are evident in subgroupings. The value of psychiatric contribution to the courts is discussed in relation to South African legal process and clinical experiences. PMID- 2517996 TI - Child sexual abuse: a new approach. AB - The Metropolitan Police and the Department of Social Services for the London Borough of Bexley have established procedures for the joint investigation of child sexual abuse. This article describes the development of the project, its aims and objectives and the training methods evolved. PMID- 2517998 TI - Pharmacists against drug abuse. AB - The Pharmacists against Drug Abuse Programme was initiated in South Africa in 1984. It is administered by the South African Association of Retail Pharmacists, and directed at all segments of the population, with the aim of promoting a drug abuse free society. PMID- 2517999 TI - Clarification on competence to stand trial. AB - The assessment of CST is a multidimensional set of operations, including the systematic gathering of data and the formulation of a prognostic opinion. It is a common procedure in forensic psychiatry and usually has a major influence on the future of the examinee. The art of examining competence is dependent on the careful consideration of the semantics of the concept, the ethical implications of the process and on the examiner's awareness of the interpersonal and intrapsychic aspects involved in formulating the assessment. PMID- 2518000 TI - Czechoslovak health legislation. AB - A history, description and assessment of health legislation in Czechoslovakia are given. The suggestion is made that it could serve as a model for health legislators in other countries, as it is the first universal health codex. PMID- 2518001 TI - The psychology and actions of rapists interned in the Kawagoe Juvenile Prison compared with rapists in Tokyo. AB - The study of the psychology of rapists reveals information which could facilitate the re-orientation of juvenile offenders in prison. The subjects of this study were sixty criminals incarcerated as rapists in the Kawagoe Juvenile Prison at the end of 1985. Questionnaires and various psychological tests (including the Rozenweig Picture--Frustration method) were used to examine their state of mind. Information concerning 173 rape cases referred to the section of Criminal Identification in 1985 was obtained from the Tokyo Metropolitan Police and used for comparison. PMID- 2518003 TI - [Serologic study of the diagnosis of Chagas disease in Nicaraguan students in the Juventud island]. AB - The results obtained during the serologic study for the diagnosis of Chagas' disease in 868 Nicaraguan students in the Isle of Youth are reported. Qualitative hemagglutination and indirect immunofluorescence were used. It was found that 8.5% of these students showed antibodies specific to Trypanosoma cruzi by means of this diagnostic test. PMID- 2518002 TI - [The central nervous system and neuroendocrine system in the regulation of the immune response]. AB - There is at present a clear trend in the study of psychoneuroimmunoregulatory events. Different experimental models have demonstrated: a) the participation of stress, psychosocial factors and the central nervous system in the regulation of the immune response; b) an extensive innervation by the autonomic nervous system of the lymphatic organs; c) the presence of receptors for the neuroendocrine mediators in the mononuclear peripheral cells; d) the activity of neuropeptides, hormones and neurotransmitters in lymphocyte activation and function; e) the production of neuroendocrine substances by lymphocytes; f) the existence of feedback pathways in the immune system. In our laboratory we have contributed to these studies with the description of: a) the regulatory activity of different neuroendocrine substances on interferon-gamma production; b) the characterization of the immune regulation exercised by the muscarinic cholinergic system; c) the in vitro activity of the indoleamines, serotonin and melatonin on the immune response, and the production of these indoleamines by lymphocytes and monocytes, thus establishing a model of paracrine regulation. PMID- 2518004 TI - Eosinophil levels in the acute phase of experimental Chagas' disease. AB - Eosinophil dynamics, in bone marrow, blood and peritoneal exudate, of resistant C57B1/6 (C57) and susceptible A/Snell (A/Sn) mice was comparatively studied during the acute phase of infection by Trypanosoma cruzi Y strain. A decline was observed in bone marrow eosinophil levels in A/Sn, but not in C57 mice, soon after infection, those of the former remaining significantly below those of the latter up to the 4th day of infection. Bone marrow eosinophil levels of C57 mice declined subsequently to levels comparable to those of A/Sn mice, the number of these cells in this compartment remaining 50% those of non infected controls, in both strains, up to the end of the experiment on the 14th day of infection. The fluctuations in eosinophil levels in blood and peritoneal space were similar in both mice strains studied. Concomitantly with depletion of eosinophils in the marrow, depletion in blood and a marked rise of these cells in the peritoneal space. initial site of infection, occurred in both strains. The difference in eosinophil bone marrow levels, between C57 and A/Sn mice, observed in the first four days of infection, suggests a higher eosinopoiesis capacity of the former in this period, which might contribute to their higher resistance to T. cruzi infection. PMID- 2518005 TI - Hormone reduces levels of AIDS virus in blood. PMID- 2518006 TI - Retention. The economics of using an agency. PMID- 2518007 TI - Retention. Why not start your own agency? PMID- 2518008 TI - Role of CD4 and CD8 in enhancing T-cell responses to antigen. PMID- 2518009 TI - Three B-cell-surface molecules associating with membrane immunoglobulin. PMID- 2518010 TI - Transcriptionally defective retroviruses containing lacZ for the in situ detection of endogenous genes and developmentally regulated chromatin. PMID- 2518011 TI - Clonal anergy of I-E-tolerant T cells in transgenic mice with pancreatic expression of MHC class II I-E. PMID- 2518012 TI - Inflammatory destruction of pancreatic beta cells in gamma-interferon transgenic mice. PMID- 2518014 TI - [Comparative study of gallbladder volume and contraction in healthy subjects of various ages and sex by ultrasonography]. AB - Gallbladder motor function moderates the enterohepatic circulation which is determinant in bile composition. Cholelithiasis due to cholesterol stones increases with age and is more frequent in women. We studied the effects of age and sex on the gallbladder volume and contraction in 160 healthy subjects. We used real time ultrasonography and the elipsoid method to calculate the volume and gallbladder contraction which was physiologically stimulated by a fatty meal. The results of the gallbladder contraction were: Group 1 female (young women): 82.2% (SD = 12.1), Group 1 male (young men): 86.0% (SD = 9.9), Group 2 female (adult women): 77.4% (SD = 9.4): Group 2 male (adult men): 75.8% (SD = 15.9); Group 3 female (elderly women): 83.6% (SD = 9.0) and Group 3 male elderly men): 77.3% (SD = 10.2). The fasting and postprandial volumes correlates directly with the age in both sexes. These differences were not statistically significant and we concluded that in absence of gallbladder pathology, the motor function of the gallbladder is not significantly modified by age and sex. PMID- 2518013 TI - Impact of somatic mutation on the S107(T15) heavy-chain V region of antibodies reactive with self and nonself. PMID- 2518015 TI - [Endoscopic polypectomy of the upper digestive tract]. AB - From 1985 to 1987 we performed 82 endoscopic polipectomies in 80 patients. In this paper we refer the technics, epidemiological data and macro and microscopical findings of the resected specimens. Two patients with gastric cancer were treated in this way, these patients had formal surgical contraindication. In two patients in whom the endoscopic biopsies could not render a definitive diagnosis (cancer or atypical epithelium), the study of the resected tumor permitted the diagnosis of atypical epithelium, so two gastrectomies were avoided. Among our resected lesions we found 55 of inflammatory type, 6 adenomas and 7 atypical epithelium. We consider that this is a useful method for the diagnosis and treatment of some elevated lesions. Although this is not the treatment of choice for the elevated early cancer, it could be used to treat cancerous tumors in patients with high surgical risk. PMID- 2518016 TI - [Comparative study of nitrogen, lipids and energy loss through the feces in children dehydrated by acute diarrhea due to rotavirus and other agents]. AB - With a view to observing if gastroenteritis to rotavirus produced greater carbohydrate malabsorption, we studied 94 male infants, between three and thirty six months of age, with acute diarrhea and dehydration. The metabolic study included the analysis of every intake and excretion during the first 24 hours of oral rehydration and realimentation. Thirty two infants had rotavirus as the single etiological agent, but in numbers it could only be compared to 35 patients in whom we were unable to establish the causal etiological agent of diarrhea in spite of the application of all the usual techniques. No differences were noted with regard to stool and urine losses, nor nutrient intakes of the groups. The present study does not confirm the observation reported in other papers that diarrhea to rotavirus causes a greater loss of carbohydrates. PMID- 2518017 TI - [Endoscopic retrograde cholangiography and perioperative cholangiography: to use both, one or none?]. AB - ERCP and cholangiography during surgery (SC) are compared in regard to their usefulness in 100 patients in whom cholecystectomy was performed because of gallstones. The biliary tree was visualized in 73% of patients with ERCP and in 85% with SC 20 patients presented stones in the common bile duct (CBD), of these 19 had previous signs or symptoms clinical history, laboratory, ultrasonography) that suggested this diagnosis, of the rest of the patients (80) without CBD stones only 7 had signs or symptoms that suggested this diagnosis, 4 of these patients had normal cholangiograms and 3 had "odditis". So in 73 patients without symptoms suggestive of CBD stones, preoperative or intraoperative cholangiography was probably not necessary. We consider that it is convenient to perform ERCP only in those patients with gallstones who have clinical findings suggestive of CBD or pancreatic problems (history, laboratory, ultrasonography). Cholangiography during cholecystectomy would be indicated in patients with small gallstones, the finding during operation of a dialted CBD or palpation of stones in the CBD and when ERCP fails in a patient with suggestive symptoms or when there is doubts with the ERCP findings. PMID- 2518019 TI - [Acute pancreatitis and diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography]. AB - Urgent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in acute pancreatitis allows to detect associated biliary disease, display the bilio-pancreatic anatomy to plan optional early surgery and offer an alternative in the treatment with endoscopic sphincterotomy and/or infundibulotomy, in cases of choledocholithiasis and impacted stone at the ampulla of Vater. In relation to the prevalence of biliary lesions in the etiology of acute pancreatitis, the urgent ERCP is a safe and useful procedure that offer diagnosis and treatment, so therefore, it must be considered during the evaluation of patients with acute pancreatitis. PMID- 2518020 TI - [Colitis caused by radiation: 20 years' experience]. AB - The 20 year experience with diagnosis and management of radiation colitis at the Gastroenterology Department of the Hospital Oncologico "Padre Machado" is presented. Of 404 cases, 98% were treated for carcinoma of the cervix. The most frequent symptoms were rectal bleeding (71%) and changes in the intestinal habitus (27.2%). Symptoms were present from one month to one year prior to radiation. Flexible sigmoidoscopy in 77.5% of patients showed Grade I and II actinic disease, and X Ray studies sowed Grade II and III in 80%. Thirty eight patients required surgical treatment. PMID- 2518021 TI - [Autoimmune chronic hepatitis: clinico-pathologic spectrum in 7 cases]. AB - Autoimmune chronic active hepatitis (ACAH) is an infrequent modality of chronic hepatitis (CH) with clinical and laboratory findings of an autoimmune disorder. Clinical and pathological findings of 7 cases are presented; all were females with ages between 7 and 24 years. Main symptoms and signs were weight loss, malaise, arthralgias, fever, menstrual disturbances, hepatosplenomegaly, jaundice ascites and esophageal varices. Aminotransferases were elevated in all cases, and bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase and gammaglobulins were found to be raised in six. Antinuclear antibodies were positive in 5 cases, smooth muscle antibodies in 3, and antimitochondrial antibodies were detected in one. Morphological changes were those of chronic active hepatitis with variable degrees of fibrosis. Plasma cells were conspicuous. All patients received steroid treatment (Prednisone). It is concluded that the diagnosis of ACAH can be based on clinical and immunological criteria provided other causes of CH such as viral hepatitis, are ruled out. PMID- 2518018 TI - [Chronic diarrhea as a clinical expression of common variable hypogammaglobulinemia: apropos of 3 cases]. AB - Sixty per cent of the patients with immuno-compromise of the humoral compartment may show chronic diarrhoea, specially seen in the common variable hypogammaglobulinemia (CVH). We presented 3 cases of late-onset CVH who referred chronic diarrhoea as the main symptom. The immunodiagnosis revealed undetectable or subnormal immunoglobulins levels (G, M, A), preserved total haemolytic complement and a negative autoimmune screening. The cell compartment analysis showed increased number of suppressor T lymphocytes (CD8) plus hyporesponsiveness of the total peripheral lymphocytes to polyclonal mitogens such PHA. The clinical approach of the CVH patients should be performed by a multispecialized team including the clinical immunologist and the gastrointestinal and infectious diseases specialists. PMID- 2518022 TI - [3 cases of hemobilia]. AB - Three cases of Hemobilia in relation with complications associated to: Hepatic biopsy, retrieval of T-tube drainage and liver trauma are presented. A review of the clinical picture, diagnostic procedures and surgical treatment in every case is analized. General revision of this entity is made and according with our experience suggest some conclusions. PMID- 2518023 TI - [Sclerotherapy of esophageal varices]. AB - The first published report on sclerotherapy of esophageal varices appeared 50 years ago, but it is during the last decade that its use has generalized. The indications, technique, site of injection and type of substance used have changed in the last years. At the present time it is accepted that it is effective for the control of acute bleeding from variceal rupture and it is probably the procedure of choice in this situation. The present tendency is to continue to sclerosis after the acute bleeding. Sclerotherapy of patients that have never bled is still controversial, it is necessary to establish parameters that may permit the identification of patients with risk of bleeding in whom prophylactic sclerotherapy would be justified. PMID- 2518024 TI - [Ultrasonography in acute appendicitis]. AB - Acute appendicitis is one of the most frequent causes of acute abdomen. Event though its mortality has been significantly reduced, the high percentage of negative laparotomies changed in the last 40 years reaching at present an average of 20-25%. Several radiological methods have being proposed in order to improve a diagnostic effectiveness, however they have showed a limited value. Computerized tomography and ultrasonography has been used, mainly for the diagnosis of complications of acute appendicitis and few studies related to its utility in early diagnosis have been published. The technique of ultrasonographic examination and the characteristics of the normal and inflamed appendix are discussed as well as the sonographic appearance of appendicular mass, sensibility and method controversy. PMID- 2518025 TI - [Space occupying lesion in the liver]. PMID- 2518026 TI - [Obstruction of the bile ducts]. PMID- 2518028 TI - [Early management of foreign bodies in the upper digestive tract with flexible fiberendoscopy]. AB - We present our five year experience (1983-1988) in 74 patients who intentionally or accidentally ingested foreign bodies, and their management with flexible fibroendoscopy. A higher incidence was observed in children under 6 years of age, and adults between 30 and 50 years of age. The major presenting symptom was the "sentation of foreign body", and 24% of patients presented no symptomatology. The most commonly encountered foreign bodies were: fishbone, coins, chicken bones, and meat fragments. An esophageal location was the most commonly found, predominantly in the proximal third. Flexible endoscopy performed in 59 patients (80%), successfully removing the foreign body in 93.2%. In the remaining cases it was demonstrated previously that the foreign body could not be reached by the endoscope. PMID- 2518030 TI - [Ascaris hepatic abscess]. AB - An 18 months old infant with hepatic abscesses was studied. Ultrasonographic examination of the liver revealed 2 abscesses in the right lobe of the liver containing elongated hyperecogenic structures compatible with ascaris lumbricoides. Antibiotic and antihelmintic treatment was followed by complete clinical recovery. PMID- 2518027 TI - [Usefulness of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in diagnosis of choledochal cysts in children]. AB - We report 11 infants with choledochal cyst confirmed during surgery. In none of the patients an abdominal mass was palpated during physical examination. In 10 (91%) of the patients, ERCP showed the cyst. Ultrasound was positive in 82% (9/11) of the cases. Two patients had acute relapsing pancreatitis with severe anatomical abnormalities at the pancreatobiliary junction. Multiple biliary lithiasis were seen in four cysts. ERCP is of significant value in establishing the diagnosis, defining anatomic abnormalities and complications. ERCP should be the procedure of choice in patients with suspected choledochal cyst. PMID- 2518029 TI - [Cancer of the ampullar region]. AB - The clinical-pathological spectrum of ampullary cancer in 18 patients studied at the Department of Gastroenterology (Hospital Oncologico Padre Machado) during the last decade (1980-88) is presented. Involvement of the extrahepatic bile ducts was due to cancer of the ampullary region. In all cases diagnosis was confirmed by pathology. The value of ERCP is presented and the need to set apart this tumors from carcinoma of the head of the pancreas is emphasized. None of the nine cases treated with radical resection (Whipple) had operative mortality, and although follow-up for all cases is not long enough, two patients are alive and free of disease, five years after surgery. The value of prosthesis and biliary drainage for palliation is commented upon. Emphasis is placed on the need of using the term ampullary cancer in its proper connotation. Criteria for differentiating periampullary tumors (specially cancer of the head of the pancreas) are presented. PMID- 2518031 TI - [Immunology in gastric cancer]. AB - The Immunology in Gastric Cancer has slowly advanced during the past 20 years. Specific antigens have not been obtained although in a number of cases associated antigens such as alpha FP or CEA have been detected. In advanced cases the T cell immunological competence could be altered, however, compared to colorectal cancer this alteration is less significant. Serum factors seem to play an immunomodulatory role which might influence the variable response observed among the different groups of patients. In gastric cancer it seems essential to investigate the nature of those serum factors to further dissect abnormalities of T cell function. PMID- 2518032 TI - [Gallbladder contraction]. AB - The study of gallbladder motor function has increased due to the development of the new exploratory techniques and by the resurgence of the theory that points out the importance of abnormalities of gallbladder motility in the origin of gallstones. This paper reviews the anatomical and functional basis of gallbladder contraction, its neurohormonal control and the physiological, pharmacological and pathological factors that influence its emptying and produced stasis. The information obtained by different methods used to investigate gallbladder motility and the consequences of its motor dysfunction are analyzed. PMID- 2518033 TI - [Diaphragmatic fistula]. PMID- 2518034 TI - [Unusual vesicular content]. PMID- 2518035 TI - [Gastric cancer in Venezuela]. PMID- 2518037 TI - [Colonoscopy as primary procedure in the diagnosis of colonic neoplasms]. AB - Experience with colonoscopy as an initial procedure in the study of the colon is presented. 3.450 colonoscopies in patients with GI symptoms were performed by trained endoscopists using the intermediate length scopes (130cm) without fluoroscopy. In 90% of the cases the whole colon was studied in a mean time of 20 minutes. 382 neoplasms (11.07%) were diagnosed. Polips represented 90% of the lesions and 34.3% of them were adenomas. 30% of the adenomas and 34.4% of the malignant tumors were localized in the right colon. We emphasise that 82.7% of the polips found in the right colon were adenomas. As a side effect we had a sigmoid perforation, it represents 0.03%. Colonoscopies performed by a trained endoscopist is a highly diagnostic method with low degree of complications, making it the procedure of choice in the study of the colon in specialized centers. PMID- 2518036 TI - [Analysis of current surgery of gastric cancer in Venezuela]. AB - Gastric cancer in Venezuela is a public health problem occupying the first place as a cause of death due to cancer. The experience of the University Hospital of Caracas during the 1976-86 decade is reviewed. Surgical morbidity and mortality is adequate and relates with other local literature reviewed. The difference is that our patients are seen when lesions are very advanced and all therapeutic measures do not get five years survivals. When diagnosis is early and appropriate surgery is performed, survival is similar to other statistics. It is important to emphasize early diagnosis, massive exams, and public campaigns associated with aggressive surgical treatment that will improve the prognosis of this fatal disease. PMID- 2518039 TI - [Isolation and identification of the products of Streptococcus faecalis inhibiting mycelial transformation of Candida albicans]. AB - An attempt was made to isolate and identify Streptococcus faecalis products responsible for the inhibition of mycelial transformation of Candida albicans. Five of streptococcal strains which 48 h broth culture supernatants run at 37 degrees C inhibited the most transformation of Candida albicans from yeast phase to mycelial phage. The strains were cultivated for 48 h in Tryptic Soy Broth at 37 degrees C, centrifuged and culture supernatants sterilised by means of filtration on millipore membranes of 0.4 micron diameter. After multistep purification of supernatants filtration on Diaflo PM 10 ultrafiltration membranes, Sephadex G 25, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis) a homogenous, active fraction was obtained containing peptides of molecular weight around 6,000 Da. The peptides lost ability to induce mycelial transformation of C. albicans after heating at 100 degrees C for 10 min. Significant inhibition of morphological transformation of fungal cells was seen at the preparation concentration of 0.12 microgram/ml. PMID- 2518038 TI - [Effect of selected bacteria on mycelial transformation of cells of Candida albicans]. AB - Influence of selected bacteria representing typical physiological flora of mucous membranes of man on transformation of Candida albicans from yeast phase to mycelial phase was evaluated, E. coli, S. viridans and S. faecalis inhibited to different degree mycelial transformation of fungal cells. A degree of inhibition in the case of E. coli was proportional to the period of preliminary culture of strains in medium containing serum while streptococci inhibited mycelial transformation mainly after 4 and 24 hr of preliminary culture. Production of factor(s) inhibiting mycelial transformation of C. albicans by E. coli was induced by direct contact with fungal cells and by low molecular weight substances produced by C. albicans. Streptococci produced inhibiting factors even when fungal cells or their metabolites were absent in the medium. PMID- 2518040 TI - Is it worth it? A look at the costs and benefits of an OSCE for second-year medical students. AB - For the past two years, the Bowman Gray School of Medicine has used an Objective Structured Clinical Exam (OSCE) to measure the performance of 117 first- and second-year medical students at the end of introductory courses on differential and physical diagnosis. Given the surprisingly high costs of conducting the OSCE ($1300 for supplies and 527 person-hours of donated time), data about the format's perceived benefits were collected. All of the faculty involved in the examination who responded to a questionnaire (80%) reported that it was worth the time they had volunteered to evaluate students by observation and that the format should be used in the future. The majority of student examinees also reported that the OSCE format was appropriate for the course and should continue to be used. PMID- 2518041 TI - [Prevention of dental discolorations]. AB - Dental discolorations create serious esthetic problems that are difficulty faced. These discolorations are caused by changes in structure or thickness of dental hard tissues or by coloring agents taken up by dental hard tissues. The purpose of this review was to describe dental discolorations, their etiology and their prevention. Although most of dental discolorations can be prevented, the fact that they still exist, proves that they are not effectively faced. Therefore it is obvious, that people must be educated about some dietary, professional and other habits that can cause dental discolorations as well as about the side effects of various drugs. Also dentists must have the appropriate knowledge in order to prevent dental discolorations and not to create them. PMID- 2518042 TI - [Fluoride poisoning: mechanism, symptoms and treatment]. AB - The use of fluorides in doses recommended by the International Dental Association is totally safe. Fluoride toxicity occurs only when these doses are exceeded. The human organism is capable of metabolizing fluoride when administered in low doses. Toxic doses though can cause signs and symptoms which vary from simple gastric disturbances to serious health problems or even death. The least fluoride dose which can cause signs and symptoms of fluoride poisoning is called possibly toxic dose. In the present paper the amount of 5 mgF-/kg is considered as the probably toxic dose of fluoride. In the case of accidental ingestion of a fluoride overdose the dentist should be also to calculate the amount of fluoride ingested. A simple method of calculating the amount of fluoride swallowed is presented in this paper. In addition the emergency treatment for fluoride overdoses is discussed. The danger of acute fluoride poisoning has increased lately, especially for children, due to the variety, pleasant taste smell and colour of fluoride products. Dentists should be able to estimate the toxic potential of fluoride in case of accidental poisoning and advise appropriate treatment. PMID- 2518043 TI - [The degree of density of three anatomic regions in the orthopantomograph]. AB - In the present study the degree of density of three anatomic regions in 215 orthopantomographs was evaluated. The three anatomic regions which were selected were: the maxillary sinus, the hard palate and the hard tissues (enamel and dentin) of the right lower first molar. The degree of density was correlated with the age and sex of the patients and it was found to increase with the age. The difference of the density was found to be statistical significant between the decade 1-10 compared to the other decades of age. The degree of density was greater in the women in all three anatomic regions but statistical significant only in the first molar region and in the decades 1-10 and 31-40. PMID- 2518044 TI - [Evaluation of dental behaviour in adults with an advanced level of education in Athens]. AB - The purpose of this study was to evaluate the dental health behaviour in adults of advanced education. Ninety adults, aged 31-60, men and women were randomly selected from a population of advanced education. All the subjects had a thorough oral examination in order to record their dental health indices. Before the examination each participant was interviewed personally for determining, among others, their knowledge about oral health in general and more specifically about prevention of oral diseases. Their responses were correlated with the dental health indices that were determined by the dental examination. The results of the study indicate that this segment of the population demonstrates better oral health status than other population groups of the same age in Greece; the values of the restorative treatment indices were especially very high. From their responses it was found that although their theoretical knowledge on general dental health was satisfactory their information on prevention of oral disease was very limited. It is therefore concluded that although the level of education of adult population correlates well with the level of dental care received, an effective control of oral disease could be realised only if prevention procedures and dental health education is initiated early in life. PMID- 2518045 TI - [Sounds from the TM joint. Etiology and pathological significance]. AB - The irregularities of the disc in relation to the condyle, as the production of pathological sounds, from the temporomandibular joints, is one of the simultaneous and very difficult topics that occupied the physiology of the stomatognathic system, specially the last years. In the paper is examined longly and by the prism of the contemporary research the way of the creation and the manifestation of the various sounds from the temporomandibular joints, as also and the various irregularities of the connection disc. A special emphasis is given to the anterior disc displacement with reduction and the anterior disc displacement without reduction. The paper is completed by its relation to the curative confronting of the situations by the aid as much of the classical as of the very recent methods and means of treatment. PMID- 2518046 TI - [Granulomatous cheilitis. Case report]. AB - A case of granulomatous cheilitis, an uncommon disease that is difficult to be treated is described. The disease is of unknown etiology and it may represents a monosymptomatic form of Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome. The significance of the clinical lesions, the microscopic features as well as the recent aetiological aspects of the disease are discussed. PMID- 2518047 TI - [Management of the cleft patient from birth to completion of the deciduous teeth]. AB - Cleft lip and cleft palate are the most common defects of the craniofacial system. The treatment of children with this craniofacial malformation requires a multidisciplinary approach due to the complexity of their problems. Thus, cleft lip and palate teams have developed in many institutions, in order to provide the necessary medical and psychosocial treatment to these children. The treatment of children with cleft lip and cleft palate should begin right after birth and include their families as well. The purpose of the present paper is to present the problems of children with cleft lip and cleft palate from birth until the completion of their primary dentition. In addition, the systematic and comprehensive treatment planned by the various specialists of the team for the solution of the above problems, is presented in detail. PMID- 2518048 TI - [Old and new aspects of gingivitis in pregnancy]. AB - The relation of pregnancy and periodontal status has been reviewed. The way by which sex hormones influence periodontal tissues is that they alter the inflammatory response of the gingiva to local irritants i.e. dental plaque. The therapeutic procedure of pregnancy gingivitis is described in this paper. The presentation of four cases from patients with pregnancy gingivitis were shown for better understanding discussion. PMID- 2518049 TI - [Smear layer on prepared dentin]. AB - Whenever dental tissues cut with a rotary instrument, a layer of grinding debris and organic film left of their surfaces, which is described by the term "smear layer". In this paper, we present the morphology and views for the formation of the smear layer. Additionally, we examine the influence of smear layer, on dentin permeability, infection by bacteria beneath dental restorations and on bonding capacity of adhesive dental materials. Following, detailed description of cleaning and chemical agents, used for smear layer removal from prepared dentin surfaces. PMID- 2518050 TI - [Comparative study concerning the magnification of anterior permanent teeth of the upper jaw in the Status-X radiograph and in the orthopantomograph]. AB - Measurements of the mesiodistal diameters and the total length of anterior permanent teeth of the upper jaw were performed in 82 status-X radiographs and in 82 orthopantomographs of the same patients, in order to determine the difference of magnification in the two kinds of radiographs. The findings proved that the difference of magnification of the mesiodistal diameters ranges from 82.08% to 90.14% and of the total length ranges from 65.58% to 81.17%. On the whole, the highest difference of magnification of the mesiodistal diameters was noticed in the central incisors while the lowest values were obtained in the canines. Also, the highest difference of magnifications of the total length was noticed in the canines while the lowest values were obtained in the central incisors. PMID- 2518051 TI - [A comparative analysis of the characteristics of META-DENT denture resin system]. AB - A newly developed denture resin based on a 4-META containing monomer became recently commercially available. It has been claimed that this resin system has the unique ability of creating bond to Cr-Co alloys without any mechanical retention. The objective of this study was to determine the chemical composition of the new resin, to study the bonding mechanism with a Cr-Co alloy and to compare its physical and mechanical properties to a commonly used acrylic denture resin. The analysis revealed that the new system contains 5% by weight 4-META in MMA liquid and 28% poly (ethyl methacrylate) in PMMA. No practical differences were noted in the stress-strain characteristics and hardness values between the resin systems. The META-DENT resin was more abrasion resistant. The bond of META DENT to the Cr-Co alloy was greatly superior than that of the conventional resin. The bonding mechanism may be related to enhanced physical wetting due to reduced META-DENT viscosity and probably complexation of the anhydride groups with either Cr or Co. PMID- 2518052 TI - [Influence of the sprue casting design on the surface porosity of the silver palladium dental alloys]. AB - The purpose of this work is to investigate and find out the best "design" of the casting sprues on the area and the number of the surface porosity when we cast silver-palladium dental alloys for metalloacrylics fixed partial dentures. Our observation and research have been done on 216 external surfaces from 72 M.O.D. specimens, which were casted using four different designs of casting sprues and three types of silver-palladium dental alloys (Panag, Pangold and Palliag M.). The evaluation of our findings and statistical analysis have been done. The findings of our study are the following. 1. It has been found that the "alloy" factor doesn't influence the area and the number of the surface porosity we examined, on the contrary it has been found that the "design" factor has great influence on the area and the number of the dental alloys. 2. The use of chill sets and the securing of sprue button alloy decrease the area and the number of the surface porosity when we cast silver-palladium dental alloys. 3. The straight sprues and the placing of the specimens near the heat-center of the mold created much better conditions for decreasing the number and the area of the surface porosity than when we use the preci-roto system. PMID- 2518053 TI - [Epidemiological study of the oral health status children population in Apokorona and Sfakia]. AB - The purpose of this epidemiological study is to estimate and evaluate the oral health of children in Apokorona and Sfakia districts of Hania, in the Island of Crete. One thousand twenty seven children between 5-17 years old were examined from which 521 were males and 506 females the total number of the children were 1673. This sample was divided in a. Children that lived in the mountains and b. Children that lived in the valley. The study showed: The attack of dental caries is high in (dmf) 3.91 and (DMF) 4.88. The frequency of dental visits, the oral hygiene, dental care and prevention in the examined children were in very low levels. Periodontal disease aflicts about 33%. PMID- 2518054 TI - [TMJ dysfunction as first symptom of arteritis temporalis (a case report)]. AB - We describe a case of patient 62 year old who suffers from temporal arteritis. It's started atypicalls and because the first symptoms of the disease are often stiffness of the masticatory system and impaired mobility of the lower jaw, the first person to examine the patient may well be a dentist. Other common symptoms are headache, tiredness, slight fever and other general symptoms. Temporal arteritis often raises diagnostic problems, especially with mandibular dysfunction. Correct and early diagnosis is therefore of great importance. The clinical features, electromyographic and histopathological findings and therapy are described and differential diagnostic problems are discussed. PMID- 2518055 TI - [Ten cases of supernumerary premolars and review of the literature]. AB - In this study, the modern literature concerning the classification and the incidence of supernumerary teeth and specificly premolars, is reviewed. Extensive reference is given to the aetiology and pathogeny of the existence of supernumerary teeth and the main theories that have been stated until now are described. The diagnostic problems that may result from these are discussed, as well as the methods and ways of their early detection. The unfavourable complications, the prognosis and the treatment of supernumeraries and specificly premolars are described. Finally, the radiografic findings of 10 cases of supernumerary premolars of ours are presented. A statistical analysis concerning sex, morphology, localization, impaction and bilateral presence of supernumerary premolars, that was conducted for the set consisting of these 10 cases and 50 others, that where obtained from the literature, is also presented. PMID- 2518056 TI - [Improper use of antimycotics in oral diseases]. AB - Antimycotics are the drugs of choice in the treatment of mycotic infections including oral candidiasis. Furthermore their complementary use in the treatment of oral conditions in which Candida albicans is implicated aetiopathogenically is also effective. However, according to the results of a retrospective study based on a random sample of 1000 cases from the files of the Oral Pathology Clinic of the Dental School of the University of Athens, it became apparent that these drugs are used either by patients themselves or prescribed by dentists and physicians for a broad spectrum of oral diseases. PMID- 2518057 TI - [Formation, composition, clinical implications and methods for removing the smeared layer from root canal walls]. AB - A layer, which is readily detectable at higher magnifications with scanning electron microscope (sem) is consistently seen on canal walls that have been endodontically instrumented. This layer in the international bibliography reported as smeared layer. The surface of this layer is amorphous, irregular and granular. Although the composition of this layer has not been completely determined, it probably contains fine inorganic particles of dentin produced by mechanical preparation of root canal walls. As well as some organic material from necrotic or vital pulp tissue, bacteria and blood cells. The clinical importance of the smeared layer is still not fully understood. It may be beneficial since it is known to plug the orifices of the dentinal tubules and to reduce the permeability of dentin. In addition, the Smeared layer covering prepared areas of root canal prevents medicaments and filling materials from penetrating the dentinal tubules on even contacting the canal wall. The formation of this layer, the composition, the clinical importance and various methods for removing the smeared layer from the system of root canals, is the object of this paper. PMID- 2518058 TI - [Effect of bonding agents in the degree of microleakage around posterior composite resin restorations]. AB - The purpose of this in vitro study was to examine, by the dye technique, the microleakage pattern of two posterior composite resin materials, alone or combined with three commercially available dentin bonding agents. Composite resins used were P-30 (3M) and Heliomolar (Vivadent). The bonding agents were Gluma (Bayer), Scotch-bond LC (3M) and Dentin Adhesit (Vivadent). MOD cavities were prepared on extracted posterior teeth with a 330 tungsten carbide bur, in an airtor handpiece. The gingival floor of the mesial surface was located in the enamel above the CEJ and the distal gingival floor in the cementum below the CEJ. Specimens were thermocycled between 4 degrees and 60 degrees C for fifty cycles of two minutes each and imbibed for 10 hours in a 2% basic fuchsin solution and split in two halves. According to the results we obtained we came to the conclusion that: Both composite resins exhibited significant microleakage when they were used alone, without bonding agent. The gingival floor of the mesial surface (located in the enamel) exhibited in most specimens, less microleakage than the distal one. The use of bonding agents decreased but not eliminated the microleakage at the gingival floor of the cavities. PMID- 2518060 TI - [The influence of mixing and heating on the compressive strength of investment materials]. AB - In the present study, the compressive strength of four representative dental investment materials was compared. The whole investigation was divided in three experiments. In the first one the effect of different ways of mixing on the compressive strength of the investments was examined. In the second the compressive strength of investments mixed mechanically under vacuum was compared: a) two hours after mixing, b) at the highest heating temperature and c) at room temperature after the heating procedure. In the third experiment, a comparison was made between the compressive strength of investments at the highest heating temperature. The investments were mixed mechanically under vacuum but half of the specimens were placed in a pressure device during setting. From the results obtained the following conclusions were made: a) Mixing mechanically under vacuum increases the compressive strength of the investments, b) the compressive strength of phosphate-bonded investments increases at the highest temperature of the heating procedure and c) the use of a pressure device during the setting of the investments results also in an increased compressive strength. PMID- 2518059 TI - [The incidence of superimposition of permanent teeth in the orthopantomographs and in radiographs Status-X]. AB - In this study 82 orthopantomographs and 82 Status-x radiographs of the same patients were evaluated in order to determine the incidence of superimposition of teeth in the two kinds of panoramic radiographs. The patients were 10 to 20 years of age and presented no crowding as judged clinically or from respective plaster casts. The results of this study showed that the superimposition occurs in 71.90% of the upper permanent teeth in the orthopantomographs and in 51.21% of the lower permanent teeth. In the Status-x radiographs the superimposition occurs in 54.87% of the upper permanent teeth. As regards localization the upper second premolars premolars showed the greatest incidence and the mandibular incisors the lowest incidence of superimposition in the orthopantomographs. In the Status-x radiographs the superimposition occurs more frequently in the upper canines and less frequently in the upper first molars. Comparing the two kinds of panoramic radiographs, it seems that superimposition is observed more frequently in the orthopantomographs by 17.03%. PMID- 2518061 TI - [Arterial pressure variation following an intravenous and submucous injection of local anaesthetic solutions with vasoconstrictor]. AB - This paper deals with the control, registration and statistical evaluation of blood pressure variations (systolic, diastolic and average) after an i.v. and submucous injection of fixed quantity local anaesthetic solutions (0.05 ml) in white hamsters. The solutions used were: lidocaine 2% with adrenaline 1/80,000, lidocaine 3% with noradrenaline 1/25,000. The intravenous injection of all three local anaesthetic solutions has caused an increase of the arterial pressure parameters which was statistically significant (P less than 0.01). The submucous injection of lidocaine 2% solution with adrenaline 1/80,000 and lidocaine 2% with noradrenaline 1/80,000 has not caused mentionworthy arterial pressure variations. On the contrary, the submucous injection of lidocaine 3% solution with noradrenaline 1/25,000 has led to an increase of the arterial pressure which is statistically important (P less than 0.05). The research results have led to the following conclusions: 1) Intravascular injection of local anaesthetics with adrenaline or noradrenaline has immediate negative consequences on the circulatory system, a fact which renders necessary a test respiration prior to any stem anaesthesia. 2) The submucous injection of lidocaine solutions with adrenaline or noradrenaline 1/80,000 may be described as harmless with respect to cardiovascular toxicity, and 3) The 3% lidocaine solution with noradrenaline 1/25,000 has proved to be capable of producing significant increase of the arterial pressure following a submucous injection. Anaesthetic solutions with 1/25,000 noradrenaline concentration should not be used, while they must be considered as extremely hazardous for patients with cardiovascular problems. PMID- 2518062 TI - [Incidence of oral manifestations in children with acute leukemia]. AB - Fifty children with oral manifestations of acute leukemia, ranging in age from 1 to 14 years, have been studied with reference to age, sex, location and clinical presentation of the oral lesions. Seventy six percent of the patients had the disease during the first decade of their life, 22% as acute myelocytic leukemia and 54% as acute lymphocytic leukemia. In the current study, acute leukemia exhibited a high predilection for males (70%) and mucosal pallor was the most common presenting oral symptoms (39.6%). Erythema, ulceration and swelling of the lip, tongue, palate and gingiva were also frequent symptoms. Extra oral involvement occurred in 60% of the cases as facial pallor and 11% as lymph node enlargement. PMID- 2518063 TI - [Gingival hyperplasia induced by nifedipine. Report of two cases]. AB - Two cases of gingival hyperplasia associated with the administration of nifedipine are presented in this paper. Case 1, a 66 years old woman appeared with severe gingival enlargement, which was located at the right anterior and premolar region. Both attached gingivae and interdental papillae were hyperplastic, and the enlargement was more pronounced at the labial surfaces. The patient discontinued nifedipine, and after scaling and root planning, gingivectomy was performed. One month postoperatively the gingivae were in perfect health. Case 2, a 68 years old man presented with gingival enlargement mainly of the interdental papillae of the anterior and posterior region, which was more pronounced at the labial surfaces. Gingivectomy was performed at the upper anterior region after deep scaling, but the patient did not discontinue nifedipine. Three weeks postoperatively, recurrence of hyperplasia was noticed. In both cases histologically the gingival epithelium was parakeratininized and exhibited elongated rete pegs. The underlying connective tissue comprised of dense collagen fibres and the inflammatory cells which were present in the connective tissue, were mainly plasma cells and lymphocytes. PMID- 2518064 TI - [Mucous retention cysts of the minor salivary glands. A specific type of mucocele]. AB - The mucous retention cyst of the minor salivary glands represent a specific type of oral mucocele which is lined by epithelium. It is caused probably from partial or complete obstruction of a duct. It affects older patients (over 40 years of age) most commonly women and it is located in different sites than the ordinary mucocele. In this paper we studied the histologic and histochemical features of four cases. The lining epithelium varied from cuboidal to columnar or flattened. Among the cells of the lining epithelium oncocytes were observed. PMID- 2518065 TI - [Introduction to oral biology]. AB - The purpose of this review is to give a general description of the discipline of Oral Biology. The different subjects are classified with a short introduction to each one, followed by an analysis of their role in clinical dentistry. Reference is made to various areas of research with emphasis on bone biology, mechanisms of inflammation, oral immunology and oral microbiology. The references stated are representative, aiming to satisfy the reader with a general interest rather than the very specialized one. PMID- 2518066 TI - [Antimicrobial action of dental materials used in operative dentistry: a review]. AB - This is a review of the literature about the antimicrobial action of dental materials used in operative dentistry. There are referred to the usefulness of the antimicrobial action of dental materials, and to the methods used by the investigators for the study of the antimicrobial properties. The methods used were: the examination of the in vitro antimicrobial action of the materials against several microbes, The in vivo antimicrobial action of the materials against the microbes that are enclosed underneath them in dental cavities, where some carious material was left on the floor of the cavities. Some other methods, as so as the adsorption of microbes on the experimental materials, in vivo and in vitro. There are presented the results of a lot of investigators for the antimicrobial action of dental amalgams, composite resins, silicate cements, glass-ionomer cements, zinc-phosphate, zinc oxide-eugenol and polycarboxylate cements, calcium hydroxide bases and also for varnishes and liners, since the time of Miller (1890) up to now. From these researches we can come to the following conclusions: 1) All dental materials have some antibacterial activities against several microbes when they are freshly mixed. Their action reduces with the past of time. 2) The responsible antibacterial factors are unknown. May be more than one factors. 3) In clinical practice it is not known what material is better, because the conditions are different from tooth to tooth and from mouth to mouth. 4) More researchers are necessary for this purpose because the antibacterial properties must be regarded as a part of the other biological properties of dental materials and the recurrent caries may be inhibited because of the antibacterial properties of filling and base materials. PMID- 2518067 TI - [Digital subtraction radiography technique in oral diagnosis]. AB - The introduction of digital subtraction radiography for the evaluation of standardised dental radiographs offered increased diagnostic accuracy in the detection of subtle density changes over interpretation of conventional radiographs. The digital imaging techniques for the analysis of dental radiographs were reviewed with emphasis on periodontal diagnosis. Recently, these methods, which have been extensively tested in vitro, were applied to clinical trials for the assessment of alveolar bone density changes due to progression of disease or healing following therapy. PMID- 2518068 TI - [A comparative study of visible light units]. AB - The purpose of this investigation was to examine the performance of 10 V.L.C. units according to the depth of cure of the composite resins by measuring the hardness difference (delta H) on the top and the bottom of cylindrical specimens 2.3 and 4 mm high. According to the results (a) there is a different performance between the units when the depth of cure exceeds the 2 mm (b) the type of composite resin (macrofille or microfille) has a significant influence of V.L.C. unit performance and (c) performance of the two types of V.L.C. units--with and without flexible photocolor--is almost the same. PMID- 2518069 TI - [Frequency and causes of extraction of permanent teeth. A ten-year (1968-1977) clinicostatistical investigation]. AB - The purpose of this clinical investigation was to analyze the frequency and the causes of mortality (loss) of 50493 permanent teeth, extracted, during a ten-year (1968-1977) period, in Clinic Exodontia of Dental School University of Athens, at 27804 population of Greece (13140 males and 14664 females). The following conclusions were drawn from the statistical analysis and the interpretation of the results: The mean value of extracted teeth per person was 1.84 and was lower in females (1.70) from males (1.94). Independently of the sex and the jaws (maxillamandible) the greater percentage (60.69%) of extractions was to posterior teeth. The extracted teeth were more in maxilla (52.42%). The more per cent extracted teeth, independently of the sex, were the maxillary central incisors (9.51%) and lateral maxillary incisors (8.61%) and the lower, the mandibular canines (3.41%). Caries and periodontal diseases were responsible for 80.37% of extracted teeth, independently the sex and the age. Caries was the major cause of extraction until 40 years old (71.03%) and after this age the periodontal disease was the major cause of extraction (51.61%). PMID- 2518070 TI - [Degree of double conversion in nine pit and fissure sealants]. AB - The purpose of the study was to evaluate quantitatively the degree of double bond conversion in nine commercially available pit and fissure sealants. The materials selected for the study were a) Nuva-Seal and Nuva Coat-UV cured b) Delton, Helioseal, Pentra Seal, Prisma Shield, Visioseal-Visible light cured and c) Delton, Concise White-Chemically cured. Infrared spectroscopy of monomer and polymer films, was used for the quantitative analysis at 37 degrees C. Monomer spectra were obtained from liquid films enclosed between two KBr plates while polymer spectra 24h after storage from 0.2 mm thick cylindrical specimens of 10mm diameter exposed to the activating lights for 1 min or mixed according to manufacturers. The results indicate that UV-cured materials provide the highest degree of double bond conversion followed by visible light cured systems. The clinical failure of UV-cured systems, despite their higher conversion rates is probably attributed to stabilization and shelf life problems of the catalyst besides the harmful side effects of UV-radiation which limited the utilization of these systems. PMID- 2518071 TI - [A clinical and epidemiological study of Tori mandibularis]. AB - This is a study aiming at: a) reviewing the information found in the relevant literature as regards the etiology, incidence, distribution, implication and management of the tori mandibularis, b) evaluating the incidence, location and morphology of this bony mass in a sample of Greek population and c) comparing the findings with those of other investigators. The material consisted of 357 patients, from 20 years old and onwards, who had consecutively visited the Clinic of Removable Prosthodontics for some problem. After clinical examination and tabulation of the findings, the following conclusions were drawn: a) the etiology of appearance of tori mandibularis remains unknown; b) in our sample, 12.8% had this condition; c) the incidence was higher in men (60.4%) than in women (39.5%); d) in our sample, the higher percentage of individuals showing the condition originated from Thraci (Northern Greece) while the lower came from Hepiros; e) No indication of a heredity factor was found; f) this condition is more often bilateral than unilateral and g) the torus mandibularis was extending from the canine to the area of the first premolar in 54.4% of the cases. PMID- 2518072 TI - [Three cases of Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome]. AB - Manifestations from the craniofacial complex in patients presenting with the Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome, are of a special interest to the dentist as they involve structures of the oral cavity. On the occasion of three cases that exhibit some of the characteristic signs of this syndrome, the authors provide an extensive review of the related literature. Also, the specific morphology of the face, fingers, and oral structures of these patients is described, as well as, the findings from their cephalometric radiographs. These findings are indicative of a retrognathic face with severe dental crowding requiring extensive orthodontic treatment. PMID- 2518073 TI - [Changes in the radiographic picture of various locations of the mandible, after long-term use of oral contraceptives]. AB - The vast use of oral contraceptives by a large percentage of women, in our days, has caused increased interest as regards the side effects that these "pills" might have. The purpose of this article was firstly, to review the mechanism of action of the estrogens contained in the contraceptive pills and to emphasize the possibilities that longterm use of these drugs may have in producing changes in the bones of the jaws. Subsequently, the authors describe the results of observations made in periapical X-rays taken for this matter at the Dental School of Tufts University. Finally, certain cases coming from the Oral Diagnosis Clinic of Athens University and from the Dental School of Tufts University, and showing characteristic radiographic findings in different locations of the mandible are presented. PMID- 2518074 TI - [Osteoradionecrosis, a side effect of radiotherapy of malignant neoplasms of the head and neck--a review]. AB - This paper is a review of the current literature concerning osteoradionecrosis. The pathogenetic mechanism, etiology, predisposing factors and frequency of the disease are discussed, and the relation between extractions before or after irradiation and the onset of the disease are stated. Diagnosis of the disease is analysed, together with the various methods of treatment and prevention. Finally, emphasis is given to the role of the dentist in the management and prevention of the disease. PMID- 2518075 TI - [Biology of granulocytes: differentiation, maturation, function, products]. AB - In this review the biology of granulocytes (PMNL, eosinophils, basophils) is analyzed, with reference to the differentiation and maturation stages, and their function. The phenomenon of phagocytosis and the secretory function are described in detail as well as the different chemical systems which participate in the microbiocidal activity of these cells. Finally, emphasis tis given to the biochemistry of the synthesized and secreted enzymes contained in their granules. PMID- 2518076 TI - [Evaluation and prognosis of periodontally involved teeth]. AB - One of the most difficult parts of the perio- prosthetic treatment is the evaluation and the prognosis. This paper presents the basic factors affecting a successful prognosis. Factors like bone support, mobility, distribution of the remaining teeth, root morphology, etc. as well as factors like the "patient", abilities of the therapist, etc. has been presented. From our clinical experience and from the review of the literature is presented the basic guideline of a successful prognosis. "Prognosis" is not one of the black arts--it is a system of therapeutic projection based upon successes and failures of the past. PMID- 2518077 TI - [In vitro study of the microleakage pattern around posterior composite resin restorations using a new dentin bonding agent]. AB - A totally new product, by the name Scotchbond 2 (3M Co) appeared recently in the field of bonding agents. Grace to its improved formula, the manufacturers claim that both the bond strength and the sealing ability of the material, render it trustful for use in both anterior and posterior composite resin restorations. The purpose of this in vitro investigation was to determine the microleakage pattern around slot type cavities, restored with posterior composite resin (P-50, 3M Co) using two different generations of bonding agents. Two types of cavities were prepared in sound premolars extracted for orthodontic reasons. In the first group (10 teeth) the cervical wall was located in the enamel, above the cementoenamel junction and in the second group (10 teeth) the cervical wall was located below the CEJ. The enamel surrounding the cavity margins was etched using 37% orthophosphoric acid gel, rinsed and dried and the bonding agents were applied and cured according to the manufacturer s instructions. The posterior composite was condensed and light-cured incrementally, in three horizontal layers. The samples were thermocycled for 200 cycles of 4 minutes each between 4.37 and 60 degrees centigrade, covered with fingernail varnish and sticky wax and immersed in 0.5% basic fuchsin dye for 12 hours. The specimens were split in two halves longitudinally in a mesiodistal direction in a hard tissues microtome and the degree of dye penetration was evaluated using an optical microscope. According to the results obtained we come to the conclusions that: 1. The use of Scotchbond 2 minimized but did not eliminate the microleakage around posterior composite resin restorations, in both types of cavities.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2518078 TI - [Study of the creep of glass-ionomer cements]. AB - The creep and recovery of microspecimens of glass-ionomer cements was studied using a tortional creep apparatus. The purpose was to investigate viscoelastic behavior in a low stress that might result from normal chewing forces. Small stress (2,048 MPa), below the composite resin's proportional limit, was maintained for 3 h and after the stress was released. Recovery was followed for 50 h. The measurements were made on specimens: aged 24 h stored dry at 21 degrees C, aged 24 h stored in distilled water at 21 degrees C, aged 24 h stored in distilled water at 37 degrees C, aged 1 week stored in distilled water at 37 degrees C. The glass-ionomer cements exhibited linear viscoelastic behavior at low deformations. The materials did not recover their original shape after 50 h after the stress was removed. The least amount of creep and permanent deformation exhibited the specimens aged for 1 week in distilled water at 37 degrees C. The influence of dehydration was apparent on specimens measured dry at 21 degrees C. They exhibited the greatest amount of creep and permanent deformation. PMID- 2518079 TI - [Incidence of double mental foramen in a sample of Greek population]. AB - The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence of the double mental foramen in a sample of Greek population. Four hundred sixty four dry human mandibles were studied two hundred thirty referred to men and two hundred thirty four to women. Double mental foramen were found in 6.68% per cent of the cases (6.95% women and 6.41% in men). There was no statistical significance between sex and this kind of entity. PMID- 2518080 TI - [Frequency of post-operative complications during periodontal therapy]. AB - This study examines the incidence and severity of postoperative complications during the surgical phase of periodontal treatment. The postoperative pain, swelling and bleeding were evaluated in 500 periodontal surgeries. Frenectomies, fenestration procedures and root amputation procedures were not included. When all the steps of periodontal treatment were followed and the patient was performing adequate plaque control, the postoperative complications were minimal. We were interested not in the pharmaceutical preparation of the patient but in the psychological one. Antibiotics were used only in cases that a medical problem required their administration. The bleeding incidences were due to mechanical trauma of the surgical area. Our results are almost identical with the results of similar studies. The overall result indicates that the risks of postoperative complications and pain after periodontal surgery are minimal. PMID- 2518081 TI - [Orthodontic and maxillofacial confrontation of a hemifacial microsomic mandible, comprising electromyographic check]. AB - A rare case of hemifacial microsomia of the mandible whose etiological entity is delineated from the bad posture of the foetus in the womb during the foetal period, is described. In this case, the combination of orthodontic and maxillofacial treatment, gave satisfactory results as regards the aesthetic problem of the person, the occlusal disturbances and the function, of the masseter and the temporalis-muscles. These functions were checked before, during and after the treatment by means of electromyograms, and a more balanced activity of these muscles could be detected after the combined treatment. PMID- 2518082 TI - [Shade selection in fixed prosthodontics]. AB - Shade selection is a crucial clinical step during prosthetic treatment. Nevertheless, because it is based on subjective criteria, very often the esthetic result is compromised due to inadequate color reproduction. In order to explore this complicated problem, this paper attempts to analyse it as scientifically as possible. Initially, the physical phenomenon of "Color" is analysed. Color depends upon the light source, the object and the observer. Metamerism is the fatal enemy in shade matching. Shade selection through the use of shade guides is inadequate due to lack of standardization. Therefore the possibilities of improved application of the available materials are thoroughly explored for both simple and more complicated cases. Best results can be achieved by segmental color selection (separately for dentin and enamel). PMID- 2518084 TI - [Cost benefits and quality control in dentistry]. PMID- 2518083 TI - [Thrombolytic treatment for acute myocardial infarction]. PMID- 2518086 TI - [Names of animal viruses in Japanese terminology]. PMID- 2518085 TI - [New liquid resins for amelodentinal bonding]. PMID- 2518087 TI - Tannic acid as a marker for membrane sidedness of human red cell vesicles. AB - Membrane sidedness of human erythrocytes was investigated in inside-out vesicles (IOV's), ghosts and intact cells by means of transmission electron microscopy (e.m.) after tannic acid fixation. No gross difference in appearance of either membrane surface was observed when IOV's were subjected to conventional e.m. preparation. This included in addition to tannic acid, a double fixation with glutaraldehyde and osmium, followed by "en bloc" and thin section staining with uranyl acetate and lead citrate. By contrast, if IOV's were treated with a high EDTA concentration (2-5 mM) before tannic fixation, granular, electron-dense deposits were found on one of the surfaces. The presence of such a material was unaffected by neuraminidase treatment prior to the EDTA step. On the hand, red cells show no electron-dense deposits when exposed to EDTA (5 mM) unless they presented a light cytoplasm and an altered membrane appearance. Such a material was only observed on the inner membrane surface. Furthermore, a similar distribution of such deposits following EDTA treatment was also found in white ghosts before being induced to vesiculate. These results indicate that tannic acid can be employed as a marker for the cytoplasmic surface of the human erythrocyte membrane when used in combination with EDTA. PMID- 2518088 TI - [A case with Fabry disease]. PMID- 2518090 TI - [Clinical significance of coronary vasospasm determined by coronary angiography]. PMID- 2518089 TI - [Aortic valve replacement of a patient with hemophilia A]. PMID- 2518091 TI - [Effects of sublingual administration of nitroglycerin on left anterior descending arterial hemodynamics evaluated with Doppler echocardiography]. PMID- 2518093 TI - [Mucoviscidosis. The psychosocial aspects of a hereditary disease]. PMID- 2518092 TI - Non-A, non-B hepatitis. AB - Diagnosis of non-A, non-B hepatitis (NANB) is made after exclusion of other known causes of hepatitis. Parenterally spread non-a, non-B hepatitis (PNANB) and enterally transmitted non-A, non-B hepatitis (ENANB) almost certainly appear to be two different diseases. The definite causative agents have not hitherto been identified. Much of our knowledge of NANB is based on (i) experimental studies on chimpanzees; and (ii) epidemiological studies. Parenterally spread non-A non-B hepatitis caused by whole blood transfusion and blood-product infusion has different incubation periods and may be caused by different agents. It is a mild disease clinically, and the majority of the patients are asymptomatic. It can be prevented only by judicious use of blood transfusion. Whenever possible, blood/blood products should be derived from individual volunteer donors who are anti-HBc sero-negative and have serum alanine transaminase of under 45 IU/l. Enterally-transmitted non-A non-B hepatitis is endemic in the Indian subcontinent, South-East Asia, North and East Africa and Latin America. Epidemic NANB is usually transmitted by water supply contaminated with feces. ENANB has a predilection for young adults. The disease is usually mild, except in pregnant women, who have a high case-fatality rate from fulminant hepatic failure. Control measures include provision of clean water supplies, safe disposal of human excreta and sound personal and food hygiene practices. PMID- 2518094 TI - [Rehabilitation after heart surgery. Concepts--special problems--solutions]. PMID- 2518096 TI - [Monitoring in heart anesthesia]. PMID- 2518095 TI - [Cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Basis for the assignment of nursing personnel at the start of their career to a heart surgery clinic]. PMID- 2518097 TI - [The psychological situation of patients after heart surgery]. PMID- 2518098 TI - [Tasks of the cardiologic technologist]. PMID- 2518099 TI - [Care and nursing of children before heart surgery]. PMID- 2518100 TI - [The influence of the nursing administration on the planning of personnel placement]. PMID- 2518101 TI - [Organization and management in the framework of team nursing]. PMID- 2518102 TI - [Introduction of the nursing process. Position of the Nordrhein-Westphalia work group of administrative nursing personnel and the county work group of nursing instructors]. PMID- 2518103 TI - [Anticipation, especially in the division of labor. Example: a wrongly introduced rectal tube]. PMID- 2518106 TI - [Nerve injuries and their treatment]. PMID- 2518104 TI - [Postoperative intensive care for patients with heart surgery]. PMID- 2518105 TI - [Physiotherapeutic measures after heart surgery]. PMID- 2518107 TI - [Cleft formations in the spine and the spinal cord]. PMID- 2518108 TI - [Practical education of pediatric nursing students in pediatric neurology. Orientation planning and first experiences in a rehabilitation hospital]. PMID- 2518109 TI - [Recommendations on hospital hygiene]. PMID- 2518110 TI - [Spinal tumors]. PMID- 2518111 TI - [Spinal injuries]. PMID- 2518112 TI - [Diagnosis of intervertebral disk diseases]. PMID- 2518113 TI - [Intervertebral disk prolapse in the lumbar spine]. PMID- 2518114 TI - [Intervertebral disk lesions in the cervical spine]. PMID- 2518115 TI - [Neurosurgical care following surgery of lumbar intervertebral disk displacement]. PMID- 2518117 TI - [Possibilities and limitations of project teaching in nursing schools]. PMID- 2518116 TI - [Physiotherapeutic measures after lumbar intervertebral disk surgery]. PMID- 2518118 TI - [Basic principles of amputation surgery. Surgical strategy, postoperative treatment and provision of prostheses]. PMID- 2518120 TI - [Possibilities with provision of temporary prostheses]. PMID- 2518119 TI - [Amputation as a first step towards rehabilitation. Aspects of nursing care after leg amputation]. PMID- 2518121 TI - [Up-to-date supply of prostheses of the lower and upper extremities. Possibilities from the viewpoint of the prosthesis fitting manufacturer]. PMID- 2518122 TI - [Surgical therapy of malignant bone tumors]. PMID- 2518123 TI - [Provision of prostheses of children with abnormalities of the extremities]. PMID- 2518124 TI - [The first 20 years of a handicapped person. Report of his mother]. PMID- 2518125 TI - [Planning and documentation of care in an intensive care unit. A practice model]. PMID- 2518126 TI - [How much nursing personnel is needed in an intensive care unit? Calculation of the personnel ratio according to the Therapeutic Intervention Scoring System]. PMID- 2518127 TI - [Recommendations on hospital hygiene]. PMID- 2518128 TI - [Liability for neglect of hand disinfection]. PMID- 2518129 TI - [Position paper on the situation in nursing]. PMID- 2518130 TI - [Decision by parliament on the safekeeping of new talent in the nursing profession in the 90s]. PMID- 2518131 TI - [Professional arrogance: a block for the new self esteem in nursing]. PMID- 2518132 TI - [Supplement on reanimation in peripheral hospitals]. PMID- 2518133 TI - Withdrawal from benzodiazepine dependence as a discriminative stimulus. PMID- 2518134 TI - Alcohol effects on plasma estradiol levels following LHRH administration to women. PMID- 2518135 TI - Anterior pituitary, gonadal and adrenal hormones in women with alcohol and polydrug abuse. PMID- 2518138 TI - [Viscous human collagen IV. Physical properties and experimental tolerance]. AB - Viscous solutions of collagen IV have been used experimentally on rabbits and monkeys. The physical properties of the solution allow a first class visco surgery. Tolerance is studied: degradation and absorption in the anterior chamber, intraocular pressure, endothelial effects, biological sensitivity. Good tolerance and mechanical properties are said excellent and use during human surgery has started. PMID- 2518137 TI - [Alloplastic keratophakia. Use of a new polymer]. AB - Alloplastic keratophakia has been performed with a new hydrogel, never used in Ophthalmology (poly-anionical material). Physical and chemical properties are evaluated. In vitro and in vivo studies disclosed a very good biocompatibility. PMID- 2518136 TI - [Immunopathologic study of retinal detachment with vitreo-retinal proliferation]. AB - Immunopathological studies were performed on biopsies or autopsies of pars plana samples from patients with retinal detachment, with or without vitreo-retinal proliferation. Immunoglobulins and complement deposits have been found in vitreo retinal proliferation, together with a deviant expression of HLA-DR and DQ antigens by pigmented epithelial cells of the ciliary body. Gamma interferon is able to induce this expression in vitro, and the inducing effect of this lymphokine and other mediators has been tested on pigment epithelium cultures. Cultured pigment epithelial cells expressed HLA-DR and DQ antigens after being stimulated by very low doses of gamma interferon. The precise target of this immune reaction is still impossible to determine, but its consequences could be the release of growth factors as FGF, which has been found at very high levels in pigmented and non pigmented cells of pars plana and ciliary processes. Our work asserts the existence of auto-immune phenomena in retinal detachment with vitreo retinal proliferation as well as in proliferative diabetic retinopathy, their exact involvement remaining to determine. PMID- 2518139 TI - [Psychological approach in pedodontics. 2]. AB - In this paper the Authors present the most important methods of managing the child patient toward dental treatment through the proper introduction to the dental environment. The impact of the first dental visit is particularly analyzed, as it can influence all future reactions of the children to dentistry. PMID- 2518140 TI - [Method of orthopantomographic analysis]. PMID- 2518141 TI - [Root planing with anesthesia]. PMID- 2518142 TI - [Fluoroprophylaxis in children's dentistry]. AB - The Authors underline the importance of fluoride in caries prevention and they examine chemical and biological mechanism in fluoride enamel protection. They also value most important methods in general and local assumption and suggest the most efficacious. PMID- 2518143 TI - [Use of the interproximal brush]. AB - Interdental brushes are often recommended for interdental cleaning in people with destruction of periodontal tissue and open interproximal spaces. The purpose of this investigation was to determine how frequently interdental brush can reach the interdental spaces in individuals with and without papilla destruction. An outstanding percentage of brush-penetration trough interproximal spaces has been observed in patients with no gingival recession and no loss of attachment. PMID- 2518144 TI - [The importance of Bacillus cereus in food poisoning]. AB - In the light of the available literature the present knowledge on the role of Bacillus cereus in alimentary intoxications is discussed, particularly the occurrence and role of B. cereus in food pollution, the most frequent alimentary intoxications in the world are reviewed, the biological tests on animals and studies on humans are described, and the metabolites of the organism are presented. Particular attention is given to the properties of enterotoxins responsible for diarrhoea and vomiting. PMID- 2518145 TI - [Determination of the enterotoxic properties of Bacillus cereus]. AB - Using indirect biological investigations and various experimental models the enterotoxic properties of 60 strains of B. cereus were determined. The determination of biochemical and enzymatic features was insufficient for indicating the enterotoxic strains and differentiating them from the non enterotoxic ones. In the dermonecrotic test, vascular permeability test and in cultures on cells reliable criteria for determination of enterotoxicity were obtained as confirmed by the response of the ileum. The criterion of enterotoxicity determined in these tests requires raising of the index of ileum pathogenicity to 0.33. PMID- 2518146 TI - Ruffled border of osteoclast: its three dimensional ultrastructure. AB - The ruffled border of osteoclasts in immature bones undergoing bone remodelling was three dimensionally examined with a scanning and a transmission electron microscope. The materials used the mandibular bodies obtained from newborn Wistar strain rats. Scanning electron microscopic observations of the ruffled border were carried out by maceration and extraction of osteoclast cytoplasmic matrix with 0.1% osmium tetroxide. Multinuclear osteoclasts, which possessed a large number of mitochondria and endocytotic vacuoles, were found on the bone. They abutted on the bone surface by specialized membrane complex well-known as the ruffled border and clear zone. The deepest portions of the membranous invaginations of the ruffled border viewed from the cytoplasmic side showed three kinds configurations: low and narrow ridges (70-110 nm in width), high and wide ridges (180-400 nm in width), and high and large bulges (300-400 nm in diameter). In this scene, hallows varying in size and direction between the ridges or the bulges were observed and appeared as cytoplasmic projections of the ruffled border. The ridges and bulges are probably coincident with the configurations of the proximal margins of deep membranous invaginations such as vacuolated swellings or finger-like protrusions seen in the ultrathin sections of the ruffled border. Small spherical protrusions corresponding to coated pits, from which coated vesicles are probably produced, were found at the summits of the high ridges and bulges, and thus coated vesicles are thought not to arise from the low and narrow ridges. The cytoplasm just adjacent to proximal margins of ruffled border included a large number of vacuoles and large phagosomes.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2518147 TI - Haemolysin producing capacity and mouse-pathogenicity of Listeria monocytogenes. AB - For studying the relationship between their haemolysin producing capacity and pathogenicity on mice, 12 Listeria strains were investigated, and 9 of them were reinvestigated one year later. Haemolysin production was measured on 51Cr labelled sheep erythrocytes and the 50% haemolysis-inducing dilution of the bacterial suspensions was calculated. Pathogenicity of the strains was estimated by intraperitoneal injection of mice. In both experimental series the correlation coefficients were calculated (r = 0.408, t = 1.41 and r = 0.163, t = 0.43). Using this experimental system, no correlation existed between the haemoysin producing capacity and mouse-pathogenicity of these strains. PMID- 2518149 TI - The use of monoclonal antibodies against Listeria monocytogenes in a direct immunofluorescence technique for the rapid presumptive identification and direct demonstration of Listeria in food. AB - Two monoclonal antibodies which recognise serogroup specific cell surface antigens of Listeria monocytogenes are described. The antibodies were specific for Listeria (i.e. did not react with 87 strains of bacteria from 14 other genera). In an indirect immunofluorescent test the antibodies had similar specificities when tested against strains of L. monocytogenes from human infections grown under a number of different growth conditions, and serological reference strains. A direct immunofluorescent antibody test was developed, and similar specificities of the antibodies found with strains of Listeria which had been isolated from food and grown under 2 different growth conditions. This technique is also used to directly demonstrate Listeria in soft cheese. PMID- 2518148 TI - The use of monoclonal antibodies in the characterization and purification of cell surface antigens of Listeria monocytogenes serogroup 4. AB - Soluble antigen was prepared from Listeria monocytogenes serovar 4b using a formamide extraction method. Antigenic material was detected in this extract by gel diffusion and ELISA using anti-Listeria monoclonal antibodies. Using this ELISA, antigen was detected in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) during infection due to L. monocytogenes serovar 4b with wells coated with three of the monoclonal antibodies (CL1, CL2 and CL3). The antigen binding of CL3 was found to be greatly influenced by changes in ionic strength, and these properties were utilized in an affinity purification method. An analysis of the antigens was carried out using crossed immunoelectrophoresis and this indicated that the crude formamide extract contains a number of distinct antigens. A group of three antigens of differing electrophoretic mobilities were demonstrated in the affinity purified material. PMID- 2518150 TI - Nuclear oncogenes. PMID- 2518151 TI - Antibiosis of some lactic acid bacteria including Lactobacillus acidophilus toward Listeria monocytogenes. AB - Eleven strains of lactic acid bacteria were tested by the 'spot' on the 'lawn' method for their antagonistic activity against four strains of Listeria monocytogenes. Four out of the five strains of lactic acid bacteria most antagonistic toward the pathogen were those cultures known to produce bacteriocins. Four other strains of lactic acid bacteria were not antagonistic against Listeria by this method. Seventeen inhibition zones of the pathogen were obtained at 25 degrees C as compared to 10 at 32 degrees C. Lactobacillus acidophilus strains NU-A and 88, growing in the presence of L. monocytogenes in milk prevented the latter from attaining populations it would have in pure culture (P less than 0.01). 10(1.4)-10(3.5) lower numbers were noted. L. acidophilus in most cases exhibited a bacteriostatic effect toward the pathogen except for strain 88 which appeared to have a bactericidal effect (P less than 0.01) against Listeria strain OH. The lactobacilli reduced the pH of the milk to 4.7 over a 24 h period, showing that acid played a role in the observed antibiosis. PMID- 2518152 TI - Extraction of Salmonella antigens in non-sedimentable forms for enzyme immunoassay. AB - Heating Salmonella typhimurium in ethylenediaminetetraacetate was found to dissociate its antigens into forms that are non-sedimentable at 10,000 x g. The treatment caused a marked increase in the rate of immunoreaction and the sensitivity in an enzyme immunoassay for the detection of Salmonella antigens. The method permits the extraction of Salmonella antigens from solid-rich samples and the preparation of solid-free samples by means of centrifugation. When the level of the antigens in the supernatant was too low for the immunoassay, the antigens were readily concentrated by passing a large volume of the supernatant through a macroporous hydrophobic cloth coated with anti-Salmonella antibody. Using this method, the detection of as few as 10 Salmonella cells per gram of chicken meat was possible within a total of 18 h, which included 16 h of enrichment in either tetrathionate, selenite cystine, or nutrient broths. PMID- 2518154 TI - Rubidium transport in human erythrocyte suspensions monitored by 87Rb NMR with aqueous chemical shift reagents. AB - Dysprosium(III) triethylenetraamine-N,N,N',N",N"',N"'-hexaacetic acid (DyTTHA3-) was used as an aqueous chemical shift reagent in conjunction with high-resolution nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy to monitor 87-rubidium (87Rb+) transport in human erythrocyte suspensions. NMR spectra demonstrated two resonances which were assigned to the intra- and extracellular compartments of the erythrocyte suspension. Uptake of 87Rb+ was shown to proceed via the [Na,K] ATPase dependent pump as evidenced by the inhibition of uptake in the presence of ouabain. The steady state intra- to extracellular concentration ratio of 87Rb was 3.00 and 1.13 in the absence and presence of ouabain, respectively. The rate of uptake of 87Rb+ in the absence and presence of ouabain was found to be 1.3 and 0.5 mmol Rb+/L erythrocytes/h at 18 mM Rb+, respectively. Data are also presented which indicate that the intracellular component of 87Rb is less than 100% NMR visible. PMID- 2518153 TI - In vivo pharmacokinetics of aldose reductase inhibitors: 3-fluoro-3-deoxy-D glucose NMR studies in rat brains. AB - Direct quantification of the inhibitory effects of orally administered drugs (sorbinil, cyclandelate and sulindac) on aldose reductase activities in rat brains was performed non-invasively using the 3-fluoro-3-deoxy-D-glucose (3-FDG) 19F NMR spectroscopic technique. Quantitative data obtained directly from the target organ (brain) allowed for unprecedentedly accurate analysis of drug effects in the brain in vivo. Sorbinil, a potent aldose reductase inhibitor, exhibited a classic monophasic organ response, whereas cyclandelate and sulindac showed biphasic suppression patterns. The latter indicate that there are metabolites of these drugs which possess aldose reductase inhibitory activities. The estimated potency of aldose reductase inhibition for each of the three drugs in this study was significantly discrepant from the in vitro studies indicating the complicated nature of the bioavailability of a pharmaceutical agent in vivo, especially where pharmacologically active metabolites of a given drug are involved. Our method allows for a direct quantitative assay and hence the most reliable technique for evaluating aldose reductase inhibitory activities in the target organ. PMID- 2518155 TI - The 1H NMR visibility of intracellular lactate in Streptococcus faecalis. AB - 1H NMR studies of glycolysis in washed cell suspensions of Streptococcus faecalis indicated that intracellular lactate is not 1H NMR visible. Evidence for this was gained from time course studies of glycolysis at increasing concentrations of glucose. A close correlation existed between the relative increase in the lactate integral and the enzymatically determined extracellular lactate concentration [Lo]. When ionophores which cause the collapse of the positive intracellular/extracellular lactate gradient were added to cell suspensions following fermentation of 5, 10 and 50 mM glucose, the increase in the lactate integral was proportional to the respective increase in [Lo]. A more direct method for determining the origin of the lactate signal involved centrifugation of a cell suspension after fermentation of 50 mM glucose and measurement of lactate in the extracellular and intracellular fluid. 1H spectra of the cell suspension, supernatant and sonicated pellet revealed that the lactate observed in the cell suspension was equivalent to the lactate in the supernatant alone. The intracellular lactate contained in the pellet represented 42% of the total lactate, indicating that only 58% of lactate is detected by in vivo 1H MRS of S. faecalis. This result is in contrast with the high percentage (70-90%) of in vitro lactate which is detected by in vivo 1H MRS of mammalian brain tissue (Williams S. R. et al. Magn. Res. Med. 7, 425-431, 1988). This may be due to a higher proportion of extracellular lactate in mammalian tissue or differences in the intracellular environments of bacterial and mammalian cells. PMID- 2518156 TI - Non-invasive determination of cerebral blood flow changes by 19F NMR spectroscopy. AB - The build-up and clearance of halothane in rat brain have been measured non invasively by 19F NMR spectroscopy using a surface coil placed on the intact scalp. When the halothane supply (3% in O2/N2O, 33/66%) was turned off, the 19F signal decreased exponentially to approximately 50% of the initial value, with a time constant, in normal rats, of 8.6 +/- 0.7 min (mean +/- SEM, n = 16), followed by a decay slower by at least one order of magnitude. The time constant of the rapid decay (tau), which was found to be specific for brain, was reduced in hypoxic/hypercapnic (5% O2/5% CO2) rats to 2.9 +/- 0.2 min (p = 0.001, n = 4), in rats infused with physostigmine (20 micrograms/kg/min i.v.) to 5.7 +/- 0.3 min (p = 0.005, n = 6) and increased in rats injected with pentothal (40 mg/kg i.p.) to 10.7 +/- 1.6 min (p = 0.2, n = 5). Based on the theory of exchange of inert gas at the lungs and tissues developed by Kety, the rapid exponential decay of the 19F signal was used to calculate relative cerebral blood flow (CBF). Assuming the cortical CBF in a normal rat to be about 130 mL min-1 100 g-1, the following CBF values (means +/- SEM) were obtained: controls 130 +/- 10, hypoxia/hypercapnia 390 +/- 59, hypercapnia 220 +/- 25, physostigmine 195 +/- 26, pentothal 105 +/- 23 mL min-1 100 g-1. These values are in good agreement with published values obtained with established methods.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2518157 TI - Flutamide approved for prostate cancer. PMID- 2518158 TI - Monthly dosage form of leuprolide approved by FDA. PMID- 2518160 TI - An aspartic proteinase in Drosophila: maternal origin and yolk localization. AB - An aspartic proteinase activity has been found in Drosophila oocytes and embryos. The proteinase is maximally active at pH 3.5 and has been characterized by its sensitivity to specific inhibitors and by the specificity of cleavage. The activity is very low and has been localized in the yolk granules. The proteinase is detected in mature oocytes (i.e., it is of maternal origin) and remains essentially constant during embryogenesis. This suggests that the Drosophila aspartic proteinase functions mainly before embryogenesis. PMID- 2518159 TI - Microgravity effects on the oogenesis and development of embryos of Drosophila melanogaster laid in the Spaceshuttle during the Biorack experiment (ESA). AB - The results obtained during the last successful flight of the Challenger Shuttle, in early November 1985, indicate that oogenesis and embryonic development of Drosophila melanogaster are altered in the absence of gravity. Two hundred forty females and ninety males, wild type Oregon R Drosophila melanogaster flies were flown in the Spaceshuttle during the 7-day D-1 mission and the embryos laid during the spaceflight were recovered and studied. Although some eggs developed into normal 1st instar larvae and many into late embryos in the 23 +/- 2 h collection periods throughout the flight, several interesting differences from the parallel ground and in-flight centrifuge controls were observed: 1) There was an increase in oocyte production and size. 2) There was a significant decrease in the number of larvae hatched from the embryonic cuticles in microgravity. 3) The majority of embryos were normally fertilized and at late stages of development, except in the space-flown containers in microgravity where a percentage of earlier stage embryos were recovered showing alterations in the deposition of yolk. 4) In correspondence with these results, at least 25% of the living embryos recovered from space failed to develop into adults. 5) Studies of the larval cuticles and those of the late embryos indicate the existence of alterations in the anterior, head and thoracic regions of the animals. 6) There was a delay in the development into adults of the embryos and larvae that had been subjected to microgravity and recovered from the space shuttle at the end of the flight. No significant accumulation of lethal mutations in any of the experimental conditions was detected as measured through the male to female ratio in the descendant generation. It seems that Drosophila melanogaster flies are able to sense and respond to the absence of gravity, changing several developmental processes even in very short space flights. The results suggest an interference with the distribution and/or deposition of the maternal components involved in the specification of the anterioposterior axis of the embryo. PMID- 2518161 TI - Role of the mononuclear phagocytic system in the immune and nonspecific clearance of Trypanosoma cruzi bloodstream trypomastigotes. AB - 1. The removal of T. cruzi bloodstream trypomastigotes (BTRYS) from the circulation is mediated mostly by the mononuclear phagocytic system (MPS). In the present study we investigated the nonspecific and the immune clearance of BTRYS in groups of 4 mice whose MPS activity was either enhanced by BCG treatment or depressed by silica treatment. 2. Treatment with BCG resulted in a significant increase in the nonspecific clearance of both carbon particles (100% after 6 min) and BTRYS (60% after 5 min) 28 days after BCG treatment but there was no change in the immune clearance of the parasites. 3. Pretreatment of the animals with silica induced a significant reduction of the colloidal carbon clearance (80% less than control 15 min later) but did not alter the nonspecific or the immune clearance of BTRYS. 4. We conclude that the removal of the opsonized parasites from the circulation is due to a mechanism different from that of the nonspecific clearance. PMID- 2518163 TI - [The importance of nursing theories and nursing process models for nursing in the surgical service]. PMID- 2518164 TI - [The skin as a mirror of the soul]. PMID- 2518165 TI - ["And the skin turned white as snow..." On skin diseases and leprosy in the bible]. PMID- 2518162 TI - Effect of pre-training flumazenil administration on the acquisition of three different tasks in rats. AB - The central benzodiazepine receptor antagonist, flumazenil (5.0 mg/kg), given ip 30 min prior to training, enhanced retention test performance of step-down inhibitory avoidance in rats. A lower dose (2.0 mg/kg) given pre-training, or post-training was ineffective. The effect of flumazenil seems to result from an influence on acquisition, in spite of the fact that the drug did not alter training session performance. Pre-training flumazenil (5.0 mg/kg) also facilitated retention test performance of habituation to a buzzer, but not of habituation to an open field. The effect of flumazenil is not attributable to a general influence on inhibitory learning for the following reasons: 1) it enhanced acquisition of two different tasks in which behavioral inhibition plays entirely different roles; 2) it enhanced acquisition of one form of habituation but not of another; 3) data from the literature indicate that flumazenil also enhances acquisition of active avoidance. In the present experiments, the two tasks that were sensitive to the drug were more stressful or "anxiogenic" than the open field task. There is evidence from the literature that stress activates endogenous benzodiazepine-mediated mechanisms in the brain. The effect of flumazenil suggests that acquisition in stressful or anxiogenic circumstances may be normally down-regulated by such mechanisms. PMID- 2518166 TI - [Skin care]. PMID- 2518167 TI - [Nursing in a dermatologic ward]. PMID- 2518170 TI - [Frequent mycoses of the skin]. PMID- 2518168 TI - [The current status of therapy for psoriasis]. PMID- 2518169 TI - [Care and nursing of a patient with psoriatic arthritis]. PMID- 2518171 TI - [Risk factors for the formation of malignant melanoma]. PMID- 2518172 TI - [Clinical aspects of malignant melanoma]. PMID- 2518173 TI - [Cortisone--a story of glamour and misery]. PMID- 2518174 TI - [The use of cortisone in skin diseases]. PMID- 2518175 TI - [Diaper dermatitis. Preventive and therapeutic care]. PMID- 2518176 TI - [The person within the patient]. PMID- 2518177 TI - [Prevention of decubitus ulcers in the operating room. Study of the support pressure in patients on the operating table and operating table anti-decubitus mattresses]. PMID- 2518178 TI - [The hospital as a "Taylored operation"? Thesis on computers in nursing]. PMID- 2518179 TI - [Assurance of the need for care--a permanent problem. Measures of the federal government for the improvement of the situation of patients and their families]. PMID- 2518180 TI - [Living securely and autonomously in the community in spite of the need for care]. PMID- 2518181 TI - [We need realistic health reform]. PMID- 2518182 TI - [Nursing insurance and no end]. PMID- 2518183 TI - [A piece of reform--a reform as patchwork]. PMID- 2518184 TI - [The impact of the health reform legislation on private duty nursing]. PMID- 2518186 TI - [Social work agencies in an aging society. Problems, models and perspectives of ambulatory nursing services]. PMID- 2518185 TI - [Private duty nurses in home nursing]. PMID- 2518187 TI - [Comparison of the operating expenses of 2 patients' apartments]. PMID- 2518188 TI - [Teaching of nursing students in ambulatory nursing]. PMID- 2518189 TI - [Care of persons active in nursing]. PMID- 2518190 TI - [Work satisfaction of nurses in social work agencies. Results of a questionnaire survey in three selected social work agencies]. PMID- 2518191 TI - [Changes in the professional image of community nursing]. PMID- 2518192 TI - [Care of tumor patients--a task for social work agencies]. PMID- 2518193 TI - [Mobile pediatric nursing. Provisional care and educational aid for families in special stress situations]. PMID- 2518194 TI - [The dispensary method, introduced with the health protection for women and children in Maribor as a model]. PMID- 2518195 TI - [Problems in social welfare legislation in the support of those in need of care]. PMID- 2518196 TI - [Structure of discussion. Didactic treatment of oral communication]. PMID- 2518197 TI - [Ambulatory care by social work agencies in the tension field between humanitarian requirements and the economic reality]. PMID- 2518198 TI - [Hospice--alternative for caring for the dying]. PMID- 2518199 TI - [Results of the survey on the situation in the nursing schools in the German Federal Republic]. PMID- 2518200 TI - [The cost of ambulatory care of the sick and aged in selected social work agencies]. PMID- 2518201 TI - [Quality assurance and economic control in home nursing by the medical service]. PMID- 2518203 TI - [Declaration by Amnesty International on the participation of physicians and nursing personnel in capital punishment]. PMID- 2518202 TI - [Nursing shortage in the ambulatory area]. PMID- 2518204 TI - [Cytostatic agents in the work place]. PMID- 2518205 TI - [Oncology of the internal organs--an introduction]. PMID- 2518207 TI - [Heidelberg seminar for psychosocial cancer follow-up care]. PMID- 2518208 TI - [Report and recommendation on cancer-specific education]. PMID- 2518206 TI - [Qualifications for nurses in oncology. Experiences with the inservice training course in oncologic nursing at the Heidelberg-Mannheim tumor center]. PMID- 2518209 TI - [Isolated hyperthermic perfusion of the extremities with cytostatic agents. A method of treatment in malignant melanoma and soft tissue sarcoma]. PMID- 2518211 TI - [Improvement of the quality of life with an implantable venous approach system? Results of a survey]. PMID- 2518210 TI - [Help in the fight against cancer. Impressions from the Bristol Cancer Help Centre]. PMID- 2518212 TI - [Principles of pain therapy in tumor patients]. PMID- 2518213 TI - [The role of the pediatric nurse on an oncology ward]. PMID- 2518214 TI - [Psychosocial aspects in pediatric oncology]. PMID- 2518215 TI - [Pediatric or family ward. The child with cancer and its family]. PMID- 2518217 TI - [Cancer and alternative medicine]. PMID- 2518216 TI - [Start of work with entry on the hospital terrain? The concept of employment of the 15th paragraph section 7 of the federal employee wage scale]. PMID- 2518218 TI - [First meeting of the Work Group for Care of AIDS patients and their families]. PMID- 2518219 TI - [Nursing of AIDS patients. Vote 18 ot the National AIDS Advisory Board from 12 April 1989]. PMID- 2518220 TI - [Epidemiological methodology in the dental field]. PMID- 2518221 TI - The influence of sulfonated bioflavonoids on enzymatic oxidation of arachidonic acid and on non-enzymatic lipid oxidation. AB - Sulfonic acids of quercetin and morin as well as their ferrous and cupric complexes were synthetized and investigated. Sulfonic derivatives of quercetin were much weaker inhibitors of soybean lipoxygenase than quercetin itself. Morin and its derivatives were inactive. Antioxidant properties of quercetin derivatives were in the same range as for quercetin. Most of the investigated compounds stimulate cyclooxygenase when 100 microM of arachidonic acid is used as a substrate. Ferrous complex of quercetin 5'-sulfonic acid was an inhibitor of this enzyme. PMID- 2518222 TI - Effect of antiulcer agents on the physicochemical properties of gastric mucus. AB - Although the mechanism of gastric mucosal protection is multicomponential, the initial brunt of luminal insult falls on the layer of mucus weakening its physicochemical characteristics and is intimately associated with gastric disease. Hence, the agents capable of strengthening the qualities of mucus gel, associated with its protective function, are becoming increasingly popular in peptic ulcer therapy. Evaluation of the efficacy of these types of drugs requires delineation of their direct effect on the mucus layer constituents, from those evoked in the chemical composition of mucus as a result of prolonged drug administration. Studies with mucus layer strengthening agents indicate that such drugs as sucralfate and De-Nol interact tenaciously with the mucus gel and in essence seal the underlying mucosal surface from the noxious luminal contents. These drugs and other new antiulcer agents like sofalcone, geranylgeranylacetone and stable prostaglandin analogs are also capable of enhancing mucus gel viscosity and its hydrogen ion impedance ability. Furthermore, the majority of these drugs exert an inhibitory effect on peptic degradation of gastric mucus, and the colloidal bismuth preparation (De-Nol) is also capable of prolongation of the luminal availability of epidermal growth factor. The data on gastric mucus gel, following prolonged administration, show that these drugs enhance the lipid content of the mucus gel, and increase both the mucus coat dimension and the proportion of the high molecular weight form of its mucin component. These changes result in the improvement of viscoelastic, permselective and hydrophobic properties of gastric mucus. Hence, continuity of the function of mucus layer perimeter of mucosal defense is maintained. PMID- 2518223 TI - Availability of 111In-labeled platelet scintigraphy in patients with postinfarction left ventricular aneurysm. AB - Eighteen patients with postinfarction left ventricular aneurysms (LVAs) were examined with Indium-111-labeled autologous platelet scintigraphy to identify intracardiac thrombi and to investigate the effect of antithrombotic agents on thrombogenesity within their LVAs. Left ventriculography (LVG), and two dimensional echocardiography were also carried out to assess the diagnostic ability of the platelet imaging. Indium-111-platelet scintigraphy for the detection of LVA mural thrombi had a sensitivity of 60% and a specificity of 100%. Four of six patients with false-negative scintigraphic studies had been under antiplatelet therapy. Eight of the nine patients who had showed active platelet deposition on initial examination had not received antiplatelet therapy. Thereafter, five of these nine were treated with tichlopidine (300 mg/day) for 29.8 +/- 5.0 days. On the second platelet study, two had resolution and the other three had interruption of intra-aneurysmal deposition, which remained positive. In only one patient of the three, the third platelet study was performed after warfarin therapy. It took two weeks after beginning the therapy to completely interrupt platelet deposition within the LVA in this patient. ECG gated radionuclide ventriculography and Thallium-201-myocardial scintigraphy were also performed to assess left ventricular wall motion of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and myocardial blood perfusion. Thallium-201-SPECT showed apical or anteroapical perfusion defects and the radionuclide ventriculography correctly identified all 18 apical and anteroseptal aneurysms which were confirmed by LVG methods. The comparison between the thrombus positive group and the thrombus negative group was carried out on both the LVEF and the period from the last myocardial infarction to the initial platelet scanning study. There were no statistical differences in the LVEF and the interval (34.5 +/- 12.5% vs 37.3 +/- 14.6%, 39.6 +/- 52.6 days vs 89.6 +/- 108.3 days) between the two groups. These results suggest that Indium-111-labeled platelet scintigraphy can be a reliable method for the identification of active left ventricular mural thrombi and a practical method of judging antiplatelet and anticoagulant therapy. PMID- 2518224 TI - Intense accumulation of indium-111 leukocytes in peritonitis carcinomatosa. AB - In order to detect the infectious foci in a case of terminal recurrent cancer of the sigmoid colon with intense inflammation, In-111 oxine leukocyte scintigraphy was performed. Leukocytes labeled with In-111 oxine quickly localized within the region of peritonitis carcinomatosa and could be imaged after 4 hours. With time, high activity appeared in this area. And 48 hours after injection, the large intestine was clearly seen. However, no activity was seen in the main recurrent tumor. This suggested that the labeled leukocytes had accumulated in regions of inflammation rather than in malignant tissue. When performing In-111 leukocyte scintigraphy for diseases in which tumor cells and inflammation are mixed, distinguishing the two components is particularly important, and time-sequential scanning is very useful. PMID- 2518226 TI - The microbial ecology of soybean soaking for tempe production. AB - Soybeans soaked in tap water for 24 to 36 h at 20, 30 or 37 degrees C underwent a natural fermentation that was characterized by the growth of microorganisms to 10(8)-10(10) cfu/ml (depending on temperature) and a reduction of pH from 6.5 to 4.5. Lactobacillus casei, Streptococcus faecium, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Streptococcus dysgalactiae dominated the fermentation but, significant contributions were also made by Klebsiella pneumoniae, Klebsiella ozaenae, Enterobacter cloacae, Enterobacter agglomerans, Citrobacter diversus and Bacillus brevis, and the yeasts Pichia burtonii, Candida didensiae and Rhodotorula rubra. Fermentation of surface-decontaminated beans in sterile water with pure cultures of these isolates showed L. casei, Strep. faecium and Staph. epidermidis to be the main species responsible for the pH reduction. Soybeans were the main source of microorganisms for the fermentation. Boiled beans did not undergo an acid fermentation. PMID- 2518225 TI - A kinetic study on secretion and elimination of endogenous thyrotropin in the thyrotropin-releasing hormone test. AB - Serum thyrotropin (TSH) concentrations in normal young men were measured by a high-sensitivity immunoradiometric assay before and after intravenous administration of 500 micrograms of TSH-releasing hormone (TRH). A kinetic model was applied to evaluate the secretion rate both before (V0) and after (V0 + V* at maximum rate) the administration of TRH, the elimination constant (K), the latent time (L) between TRH administration and start of the stimulated secretion, and the total amount of TSH (T) released in response to TRH. V0, V* and T varied widely from individual to individual, but correlated well with TSH before TRH administration (r = 0.93, 0.80 and 0.87, respectively). A few minutes (1.89 +/- 1.30 min) after the administration of TRH, the secretion of TSH (0.025 +/- 0.016 microU/min ml) was stimulated, and the total release over about 1 h was 12.5 +/- 5.6 microU/ml. Serum TSH was maximum at 31.5 +/- 5.7 min. The half-time of disappearance of TSH was 42 +/- 9 min. These data confirm that the stimulated secretion continues for more than 30 min, and that the pituitary releases 43.2 +/ 22.9 mU of TSH (assuming the distribution volume of TSH is 5.8% of body weight) in response to TRH, an amount which correlates closely (r = 0.91) with TSH before TRH administration. PMID- 2518227 TI - Behavior of Listeria monocytogenes in the presence of sodium propionate. AB - Survival or growth of Listeria monocytogenes in Tryptose Broth supplemented with 0, 0.05, 0.1, 0.15, 0.2, 0.25 or 0.3% sodium propionate was determined when the pH of the medium was 5.0 or 5.6 and incubation was at 4, 13, 21 and 35 degrees C. The pathogen grew in all controls, propionate-free broth, except at 4 degrees C and pH 5.0. At pH 5.6 and 4, 13, 21 and 35 degrees C the bacterium grew in the presence of all propionate concentrations used in this study. The higher concentrations permitted only minimal growth with smallest ultimate populations and longest generation times. Reducing the pH to 5.0 served to minimize growth further at 13, 21 and 35 degrees C than that observed at the same temperatures but at pH 5.6. The extent of growth was directly proportional to the propionate concentrations; at high concentrations, propionate caused a gradual decrease in populations and/or prolonged the lag phase. At 35 degrees C, a concentration of 0.25% did not allow growth, whereas 0.3% caused inactivation of the pathogen after 80 h of incubation. At 4 degrees C and pH 5.0, all concentrations of sodium propionate caused a gradual decrease in populations during the incubation period. PMID- 2518228 TI - Survival and growth of food poisoning bacteria following inoculation into cottage cheese varieties. AB - Following inoculation into cottage cheese varieties with and without sorbic acid, obtained directly from the manufacturer, strains of enteropathogenic Escherichia coli and other E. coli survived but failed to multiply during storage at 7, 10 or 25 degrees C. In the absence of sorbic acid spoilage due to Pseudomonas fluorescens occurred after storage for 5-13 days at 7 or 10 degrees C and 1-2 days at 25 degrees C. Salmonella enteritidis, S. hadar, S. saint-paul, S. typhimurium and S. virchow survived but failed to multiply at 10 degrees C and, in the case of most strains, at 20 or 25 degrees C. S. typhimurium multiplied 100 fold in one batch of cottage cheese with peppers and onion in the absence of sorbic acid during storage at 25 degrees C for 2 days; spoilage of this batch occurred due to yeasts or yeasts and moulds after storage for 4-8 days at 10 degrees C and 0-2 days at 20 or 25 degrees C. Following inoculation into cottage cheese varieties, prepared in the laboratory and which did not contain sorbic acid, as contaminants of the added protein or vegetable ingredients the numbers of Staphylococcus aureus declined during storage at 10 and 20 degrees C, the numbers of Bacillus cereus and S. typhimurium increased at both temperatures, and the numbers of Yersinia enterocolitica increased at 10 degrees C, but declined at 20 degrees C. Spoilage occurred due to the growth of moulds and P. fluorescens after storage for 5-14 days at 10 degrees C, and due to P. fluorescens after storage for up to 2 days at 20 degrees C. In products inoculated in a similar way but which contained sorbic acid (500-530 mg/kg), the numbers of S. aureus and B. cereus declined and in most products the numbers of S. typhimurium and Y. enterocolitica remained constant. In cottage cheese with chicken, however, the numbers of Y. enterocolitica increased 100-fold during storage of the product for 14 days at 10 degrees and the numbers of S. typhimurium increased 100-fold during storage for 2 days at 20 degrees C. Spoilage of this product due to P. fluorescens occurred after storage for 8-14 days at 10 degrees C, but was not evident at 20 degrees C after 2 days. PMID- 2518229 TI - Persistence at source of Listeria spp. in raw milk. AB - From 36 of 315 bulk tank sources of raw milk found to harbour Listeria spp., 34 were available for resampling at intervals to determine persistence of the organisms. Listeriae were reisolated from 21 sources. In 16 Listeria spp. were isolated in one retest. From the other five listeriae were obtained in more than one retest. Listerial populations were not particularly persistent. In all but one instance listeriae were not reisolated more than 5 months after initial sampling. Intermittent variations in Listeria spp. isolated were observed. Some repeat samples yielded the same species as originally identified, but sometimes only one of originally two species was isolated. On occasions completely different or additional species were found. The aetiology of listeriosis in cattle and contamination of raw milk is discussed. PMID- 2518231 TI - [The draft of health care legislation. Reform of legal incapacity, guardianship for adults]. PMID- 2518230 TI - Evaluation of enrichment procedures for recovering Listeria monocytogenes from dairy products. AB - Six different enrichment media and five selective plating media were compared for their suitability for the recovery of Listeria monocytogenes from dairy products. These included media used to test milk products by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and media developed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for testing meat and poultry products. Test samples included naturally contaminated goat's milk, cultured milk products and ice cream manufactured with L. monocytogenes, and unpasteurized milk inoculated with heat- and freeze-injured cells of L. monocytogenes. Generally, the media and two-stage enrichment protocol developed by the USDA, with plating of samples after two consecutive 24-h incubation periods, yielded better recoveries than all other enrichment media incubated for 24 h. A modified USDA procedure, incorporating nonselective pre-enrichment of samples by omitting acriflavine and nalidixic acid from the primary USDA enrichment broth, and transfer of a larger volume of the initial culture broth to the secondary enrichment media, significantly increased recoveries of low numbers of sublethally stressed L. monocytogenes. Prolonged incubation of samples in the FDA enrichment broth, for 7 days, did not consistently improve recoveries over the initial 24-h incubation time of the medium. The selective plating medium developed by the USDA, lithium chloride-phenylethanol-moxalactam agar, was the most effective plating agar for isolation of L. monocytogenes following enrichment of samples in any broth culture, and increased recoveries of L. monocytogenes by 19-40% compared with other selective agar media tested. PMID- 2518232 TI - [The difficult aged patient]. PMID- 2518233 TI - [Aging as a problem for women. The situation of aged dependent women and their caregivers]. PMID- 2518234 TI - [Gerontopsychiatry--work on the sidelines?]. PMID- 2518235 TI - [Notes on cooperation in the care of aged patients with psychiatric disorders]. PMID- 2518236 TI - [Psychiatry in homes for the aged. Problems of care in keeping with the disease]. PMID- 2518237 TI - [Gerontopsychiatric care at social service departments]. PMID- 2518238 TI - [Ambulatory gerontopsychiatric care. Psychiatric social service for the aged]. PMID- 2518239 TI - [Continuing education in gerontopsychiatric care. Experiences and reflections from 2 1/2 years of classes]. PMID- 2518240 TI - [Social work in gerontopsychiatry]. PMID- 2518241 TI - [A training unit for activities of daily living. An expanded gerontopsychiatric therapy concept]. PMID- 2518242 TI - [Osteoporosis--a geriatric disease. Preventive measures and aspects of nursing]. PMID- 2518244 TI - [The mentally ill child in the acute hospital]. PMID- 2518243 TI - [The work of the important other in a psychopediatric department]. PMID- 2518245 TI - [The hospital as a "Taylorized operation"]. PMID- 2518246 TI - [The suicide patient in the hospital. Considerations on teaching]. PMID- 2518248 TI - [Prevention of postoperative pneumonia]. PMID- 2518247 TI - [Dyspnea: thoughts on a common phenomenon in nursing]. PMID- 2518249 TI - [Physiotherapeutic measures for the prevention and therapy of atelectasis]. PMID- 2518250 TI - [Introduction of a measuring instrument for the recording of respiratory endangerment and impairment in patients]. PMID- 2518251 TI - [Obstructive airway diseases]. PMID- 2518252 TI - [Pulmonary tuberculosis, an (almost) forgotten epidemic]. PMID- 2518253 TI - [Pneumonias: diagnosis and basic possibilities of treatment]. PMID- 2518254 TI - [Sarcoidosis]. PMID- 2518256 TI - [Autogenic training with chronically ill children. Application in kidney diseases and in asthma]. PMID- 2518257 TI - [Conduction of helpful dialogues]. PMID- 2518258 TI - [The anxieties of sick persons]. PMID- 2518259 TI - [Shortage of personnel in the operating room. Position of the specialty group Operating Room Nursing in the German Federation of Nurses, worked over in the meeting from June 23-24, 1989]. PMID- 2518255 TI - [Surfactant deficiency. The respiratory distress syndrome of premature infants]. PMID- 2518260 TI - [4 years of nursing legislation. Report from the workshop on new conceptions of nursing education]. PMID- 2518262 TI - [Nutrition as a nursing problem. Methodological question in nursing]. PMID- 2518261 TI - [Considerations on the concept of the formation of nurses]. PMID- 2518263 TI - [The grain nurse]. PMID- 2518264 TI - [The somato-psycho-social unit of food: metabolism, pleasure and culture]. PMID- 2518265 TI - [The artificial feeding of tumor patients at home. Collaboration by the nutritional team and the community nursing service]. PMID- 2518266 TI - [Obesity--causes, manifestation conditions and intervention possibilities]. PMID- 2518267 TI - [Nutrition in diabetes mellitus]. PMID- 2518268 TI - [Dehydration in dying patients]. PMID- 2518270 TI - [Recommendation for hygienic bedmaking]. PMID- 2518269 TI - [Feeding of infants in their first year of life. Aspects of nutrition for healthy infants]. PMID- 2518272 TI - [Nursing in Australia]. PMID- 2518271 TI - [Conflict-producing and conflict-removing management. Considerations from the viewpoint of the hospital chaplaincy]. PMID- 2518273 TI - [Emergency in nursing--dilemma with a way out?]. PMID- 2518275 TI - Radioimmunological determination of exogenous corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH): plasma half-life of CRH and GHRH. PMID- 2518274 TI - Radioimmunoassay of corticotropin releasing hormone and growth hormone releasing hormone in extracted and unextracted human plasma. PMID- 2518276 TI - [Disseminated ossification of the lung]. AB - Disseminated pulmonary ossification is a rather rare finding. Two classical cases of the dendriform and seven of the nodular one, even if with minimal aspects, were reported. They were found through a revision of 720 postmortem registers and a reexamination of their histological specimens. A typical morphologic picture was observed. About formal genesis of the bone we emphasized the possibility that the ossification occurred in the dendriform also through a cartilaginous phase in addition to a connective one. Various pathological forms of the lung or other organs, that on the basis of the literature are considered responsible or associated with pulmonary ossification, were listed. Eventually, we pointed out that dendriform could be a pathological picture by itself and not a secondary one, that is to say a real idiopathic ossification. PMID- 2518277 TI - Testing criteria--use and implementation. PMID- 2518278 TI - [Chagas' disease in patients with renal transplantation]. AB - After observing a fatal chagasic infection in a renal transplant recipient we investigated Chagas disease in 84 recipients of renal transplants. The indirect hemagglutination test was used for screening and xenodiagnosis followed in positive cases, along with ECG and gastrointestinal X ray series. Nine cases were detected (10%); parasites were found in the blood of 6 of them (66%). No patient had cardiac or gastrointestinal involvement. Patients with a positive serology were treated with nifurtimox (2) or benzonidazol (7); xenodiagnosis every 6 months up to 67 months remains negative in these patients. Blood transfusions are suspected as the mechanism for infection in these cases. PMID- 2518280 TI - [Properties of the binding of 1-deprenil (Jumex) to melanin pigment]. PMID- 2518281 TI - Effect of verapamil on the development of chronic experimental Chagas' disease. AB - In previous work, we have shown that the chronic administration of verapamil, a calcium channel blocker, ameliorated the mortality, pathology, and biochemical alterations associated with acute murine Chagas' disease. To extend these studies to an established chronic model, C3H/Hej mice were infected with the Sylvio X10/4 clone. This clone does not cause symptomatic acute disease but does induce cardiac pathology incorporating several pathological features of human chagasic cardiomyopathy. Cardiac pathology was assessed at 60, 90, and 180 days postinfection. There was a significant decrease in the degree of inflammation and fibrosis in the group infected and treated with verapamil. Myocardial beta adrenergic adenylate cyclase (AC) activity was determined 180 days postinfection. In the infected group not treated with verapamil, there was no significant change in the maximum rate of conversion of ATP to cAMP (Vmax) or in the concentration of agonist giving 50% of Vmax (apparent Kact) for isoproterenol (ISPN)-dependent AC activation. The increase in Vmax for ISPN determined in the presence of 5' guanylylimidodiphosphate (Gpp[NH]p) was consistently lower in infected than in uninfected mice, suggesting that infection altered the potential synergistic activation of AC by the guanine nucleotide. In the infected group treated with verapamil, there was a slight increase in the Vmax for ISPN. However, there was a marked enhancement of the synergistic contribution of Gpp(NH)p. These observations suggest that verapamil had preserved that aspect of the AC complex mediating guanine nucleotide sensitive activation of AC. Collectively, the observations in the acute and chronic models of murine Chagas' disease suggest that verapamil may be a useful adjunct in treatment. PMID- 2518279 TI - [Abscess of the larynx resembling a tumor]. AB - The authors report a case of laryngeal abcess due to Pseudomonas Aeruginosa, of the preepiglottic space with destruction of the epiglottis and granulomatous reaction of the epiglottic endolaryngeal side. The differential diagnosis of the endoscopic image includes neoplasm, granulomatous diseases and laryngeal abscess. Biopsies revealed the diagnosis of laryngeal abscess without habitual causing factors. The treatment consisted in CO2 laser microsurgery with debulking, as complete as possible, of the granulomatous reaction in association with adapted antibiotherapy. PMID- 2518282 TI - Protection against pulmonary oxygen toxicity by interleukin-1 and tumor necrosis factor: role of antioxidant enzymes and effect of cyclooxygenase inhibitors. AB - Rats injected with interleukin-1 (10 micrograms) and tumor necrosis factor (10 micrograms) and then exposed continuously to hyperoxia (greater than 99% O2, 1 atm) survived longer, had increased lung reduced/oxidized glutathione ratios, smaller pleural effusions, less pulmonary hypertension and improved arterial blood gases. The percentage of animals surviving for 72 hours in hyperoxia increased from 8% to 94%. Although relatively small increases in glutathione redox cycle enzymes occurred four and sixteen hours following cytokine injection, dramatic increases in all major antioxidant enzymes including superoxide dismutase, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase had occurred following 72 hours of exposure to hyperoxia. The protective effect of IL-1 + TNF against lethal pulmonary O2 toxicity could be partially inhibited by pre-injection of lysine acetylsalicylate or, less effectively, of ibuprofen. Recent studies have suggested that both IL-1 and TNF can induce manganese (mitochondrial) superoxide dismutase mRNA and protein synthesis in a variety of cell types. Preliminary studies suggest that IL 1 alone, in ample dosage, can provide protection against lethal pulmonary O2 toxicity. Future studies should be directed toward identification of acute phase changes in lung antioxidant enzymes, surfactant proteins and/or lipid components, enzymes needed for synthesis of surfactant phospholipids, and/or other protective proteins. Additional work also needs to be done in identifying the lung cell types in which early enzyme induction occurs. These studies should provide a better understanding of mechanisms whereby protection against pulmonary O2 toxicity can occur. An understanding of the molecular mechanisms inducing protective proteins should lead to more precise pharmacologic control of these processes. PMID- 2518283 TI - Behind the Fos and Jun leucine zipper. AB - The production of the nuclear oncoproteins Fos and Jun is rapidly induced in response to extracellular signals. In the nucleus, the two proteins combine to form a tight complex via leucine zipper domains. The resulting Fos-Jun heterodimer can bind to the TPA-responsive element (TRE) by way of a novel, highly basic motif and can activate the transcription of TPA-responsive genes. The existence of several Fos- and Jun-related proteins with dimerization and DNA binding properties similar to Fos and Jun suggests that these two oncoproteins may be part of a network of related but functionally distinct transcription factors. PMID- 2518285 TI - Tissue distribution and subcellular location of guanine nucleotide binding proteins: implications for cellular signalling. PMID- 2518284 TI - The pleiotropic actions of leukemia inhibitory factor. AB - Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) is a glycoprotein regulator that induces the differentiation and suppresses the clonogenicity of M1 myeloid leukemic cells. M1 cells require only a brief exposure to LIF to become irreversibly committed to differentiation. In combination with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor or granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor, LIF is also able to suppress HL 60 and U937 cell proliferation. Normal monocytes and macrophages have LIF receptors, but the function of LIF on such cells is unclear. Recently it was discovered that LIF also acts on embryonic stem (ES) cells, where its continuous presence is required to prevent ES cell differentiation. PMID- 2518286 TI - Cholinergic-induced [3H] noradrenaline release in rat brain cortical slices is mediated via a pertussis toxin sensitive GTP binding protein and involves activation of protein kinase C. AB - The involvement of a GTP-binding protein (G-protein) in the process of neurotransmitter release was examined using pertussis toxin and cholera toxin. Cholinergic agonists are shown to mediate [3H]noradrenaline release in rat brain slices via a pertussis toxin (1.2 micrograms/ml) sensitive, and cholera toxin (0.5 microgram/ml) insensitive G-protein. An indication for the involvement of a G-protein and phospholipase C activation in the release process was implied from the inhibitory effect of neomycin on K+-, veratridine- and carbachol-induced norepinephrine release. Depolarizing agents mediate a neomycin-sensitive release, which is not which is not affected either by pertussis toxin or cholera toxin, suggesting a different mode of phospholipase C activation, unlike carbachol induced release, which is both neomycin and pertussis toxin sensitive. Similarly, a hormone-sensitive carrier activated by phenylephrine not via alpha 1-adrenergic receptors, mediates a non-exocytosis efflux which is not affected by neomycin and is shown to be pertussis toxin-insensitive. The inhibitory action of protein kinase C inhibitors polymyxin B, K252a and H-7 [(1-(5-isoquinolinesulphonyl)-2 methyl-piperazine] on release, strongly suggests its participation in the process. Polymyxin B, a relatively selective protein kinase C inhibitor, inhibited carbachol-induced release (IC50 = 0.53 microM) as well as the K+ and the veratridine induced [3H] noradrenaline release, K252a, an inhibitor of various protein kinases at the ATP site, and H-7, another protein kinase C inhibitor, inhibited carbachol-induced noradrenaline released with IC50 = 35 nM and 3 microM respectively. Consistent with its inability to activate phospholipase C, phenylephrine-induced noradrenaline efflux was unaffected by polymyxin B (greater than 70 microM). These results offer more supportive evidence for a major role played by the dual messengers inositol trisphosphate and diacylglycerol (IP3/DG) in the mechanisms of neuronal release. PMID- 2518287 TI - G-protein dependent potentiation of calcium release from sarcoplasmic reticulum of skeletal muscle. AB - Skinned fibre experiments were conducted to determine if guanine nucleotide binding proteins play a role in excitation-contraction coupling of skeletal muscle. By itself, the GTP-gamma S, a non hydrolysable GTP analogue was unable to induce calcium release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum, even at concentrations as high as 500 microM. However, calcium- or caffeine-induced calcium releases were enhanced by GTP-gamma S in micromolar concentrations. This response was blocked by GDP-beta S or Pertussis toxin. 32P-ADP-ribosylation catalysed by Pertussis toxin, radiolabelled G-protein alpha subunits in the range of 40 kDa on membrane subcellular fractions of rat skeletal muscle. Using Western blot analysis with antibodies raised against the bovine transducin, G-proteins were identified in frog and rat skeletal muscle subcellular fractions. In most of the muscle fractions (plasma membrane, T-tubules, triads, sarcoplasmic reticulum), the anti beta subunit antibodies recognized a 36 kDa protein which comigrated with transducin beta subunit. It appears therefore that some of the G-proteins identified by ADP-ribosylation or immunostaining in several subcellular fractions from skeletal muscle, are implicated in the modulation of calcium release from sarcoplasmic reticulum. These results suggest that a Pertussis toxin sensitive G protein is present at the loci of E-C coupling, and that it serves to regulate the calcium release. PMID- 2518288 TI - Lupus anticoagulant-related conditions. PMID- 2518289 TI - [Surgical curative treatment of cancer of the bile ducts and the pancreas]. PMID- 2518290 TI - Extended operations for extracolic invasion by colon cancer. AB - Out of 618 cases of colon cancer treated between 1976 and 1986, 25 had an unusual local invasion. They underwent radical surgery with total resection of one or more adjacent organs. This group is made of 17 female and 8 male patients, with an average age of 58 years. All the patients underwent resection of the colon with radical excision of the locally invaded organs. Only one case of postoperative death is recorded. Postoperative surgical complications were rare. This experience confirms that colic resection extended to adjacent organs invaded by the tumor gives a low risk of relapse and satisfying long term results in relatively young patients with good general conditions and without remote metastases. PMID- 2518291 TI - [Anatomo-surgical findings on structure and function of the esophageal hiatus]. PMID- 2518293 TI - [Colorectal cancer: prognosis after curative surgical treatment without extended elective lymphadenectomy in patients in Dukes C stage]. AB - A retrospective analysis has been carried out on a group of 103 Dukes C cases from a series of 412 patients with colorectal carcinoma, operated on from January 1970 to November 1983. The 5-year survival rate was 32% in patients who had a curative resection (median survival: 24 months). Larger numbers of lymph nodes were obtained with right or left colectomy. As regards the treatment of rectal cancer, similar numbers of nodes were obtained either with anterior resection or with Miles' operation. Prognosis was significantly correlated to tumor location, number of involved nodes (p less than 0.01) and grading of the primary tumor (p less than 0.01). The use of extended left colectomy with elective abdominopelvic lymphadenectomy was associated with a small raise of survival and a definite increase of perioperative morbidity and mortality compared to conservative surgical resection. PMID- 2518292 TI - [Is hyperbilirubinemia a risk factor in biliary surgery?]. AB - The Authors, by means of a retrospective analysis of the patients operated on for biliary tract diseases (obstructive or not), evaluated the role of the serum bilirubin level as risk factor in this type of surgery. They show data about 474 patients divided into two groups on the basis of serum bilirubin level, examine mortality and morbidity rates also as a function of the age and analyze the results with the chi-square test. The Authors conclude that the serum bilirubin level have no statistically significant influence on the mortality and the morbidity rates, while elderly age results to be a risk factor. PMID- 2518294 TI - [Prognostic factors in acute mesenteric ischemia. Experience of 64 cases]. AB - A retrospective study of 64 cases of acute mesenteric ischaemia is reported. The patients have been treated, during the past 12 years, at the Department of Surgery "Flaiani", Ospedale San Camillo de Lellis-Rome. In terms of favourable prognosis, the following factors have shown to be statistically significant: enteric resection carried out, thrombosis of superior mesenteric vein, preoperative normal BUN and WBC count. The diagnostic value of CPK-BB is emphasized as well as the prognostic significance of a prompt surgical treatment. PMID- 2518295 TI - [Cancer of the gallbladder]. AB - The Authors report their experience about 20 patients operated on since 1975 for primary carcinoma of the gallbladder. They remark their disappointment because of the poor percentage of preoperative and early diagnosis, that only allows a radical surgical therapy. More attention, therefore, should be payed to this not so rare pathology in the hope the survival of the patients radically operated will increase. PMID- 2518296 TI - [Unique duodenal metastasis of malignant melanoma: diagnostic-therapeutic observations on a case]. AB - The Authors report a case of solitary metastasis from malignant melanoma (unknown primary site) and analyze the most striking statistical, anatomo-pathologic and diagnostic problems related to this pathology. They also recommend a wider use of those methods which allow an early diagnosis and confirm the validity of those surgical measures in order to limit the most serious complications of this condition. Finally they stress the most recent collateral and/or alternative oncologic therapies available to improve the quality of life and increase patients survival. PMID- 2518297 TI - [Acute intermittent porphyria: a clinical case]. AB - The acute intermittent porphyria is a rare but very interesting disease from the surgical and anaesthesiological point of view. On the basis of recently observed case the Authors review clinical and pathophysiological data of this entity simulating a variety of acute abdominal conditions and involving important problems from the anaesthesiological and pharmacological point of view. As a matter of fact, the administration of some drugs can provoke a crisis that often involves serious complications (coma), sometimes lethal (respiratory paralysis). However, when a patient needs a surgical treatment for different reasons, the awareness of this condition enables to plan an anaesthesiological management free of risks. PMID- 2518298 TI - [Carcinoma of the endometrium in young women]. AB - Eighteen cases of endometrial cancer under 45 years were clinically and pathologically reviewed. Epidemiological analysis confirmed obesity as an effective risk factor for this neoplasia. In only three cases the association of adenomatous hyperplasia with endometrial cancer was discovered. These data support the theory that in young women endometrial cancer is not an endocrine related neoplasia. PMID- 2518299 TI - [Massive hemoperitoneum caused by spontaneous rupture of the gallbladder during anticoagulant treatment]. AB - The Authors report main complications of anticoagulant treatment. Particularly, they describe a rare case of hemoperitoneum by spontaneous rupture of the gallbladder. They discuss etiopathogenesis and consequent clinico-therapeutic implications. PMID- 2518301 TI - [Indications, value and limits of surgical therapy in the treatment of cancer of the gallbladder]. AB - The authors analyze different therapeutic modalities for gallbladder can and discuss indications, value and limitations on the basis of the results obtained by their own experience on 13 cases as well as literature data. PMID- 2518300 TI - [Cloacogenic carcinoma]. AB - Four cases of cloacogenic carcinoma (CC) observed between 1982 and 1987 out of 175 operations performed in the same period for anorectal tumors are reported. All the patients underwent abdominoperineal resection; 3 of them are still alive at 16.30 and 42 months from surgery respectively. The fourth died for neoplastic diffusion after 12 months. Epidemiological, clinical and therapeutic features of this rare tumor are discussed. PMID- 2518302 TI - [Benign cystic neoplasm of the pancreas: considerations on 2 surgically treated cases]. AB - Two cases of pancreatic cystoadenoma are reported. The value of ultrasound as the first choice imaging technique approach is stressed. PMID- 2518303 TI - [Prophylaxis and treatment of bronchopulmonary complications with ambroxol administered by infusion in elderly patients undergoing surgery]. AB - The Authors consider the high number of patients who are affected with chronic obstructive bronchitis due to various factors (cigarettes smoking, infections, pollution, reduced immune response). These patients, when submitted to middle high abdominal surgery in total anaesthesia of middle-long duration, are at increased risk due to pulmonary complications. Therefore, an adequate respiratory protection is necessary; actually it is possible with high dose of Ambroxol (1 g). Two groups, both of 35 patients, were compared; the first group was treated with Ambroxol 1 g the second one with aminophilline, bromexine, B2 adrenergic agonists, corticosteroids. The results show the efficacy of respiratory protection by using Ambroxol 1g. PMID- 2518304 TI - [Liver transplant: the experience of the Paul Brousse Hospital]. PMID- 2518305 TI - [Preliminary verification of a mathematical model for evaluating the operative risk in a personal caseload]. AB - The authors applied a mathematical model of evaluation of operative risk to a group of patients undergoing general and obstetric-gynecologic surgery. They verified that all risk factors identified by this mathematical model really influenced operative morbidity and mortality in the present study too. In this univariate analysis, anesthetic technique was found to influence patients' outcome, so it must be included in multivariate analysis protocols. Therefore, this mathematical model showed to be of value in assessing operative risk factors. PMID- 2518306 TI - [Orthotopic liver transplant in pigs: several variations of the surgical technic]. AB - A technique of orthotopic liver transplantation in the pig is presented. The use of a veno-venous cava-portal-jugular shunt during the anhepatic phase helped by a roller pump with moderate systemic heparinization is described. Technical modifications of arterious and biliary anastomosis are described as well. This technique is not only similar to the procedure applied to man, but it also provides a safe and reproducible experimental model. It has produced good results according to a survival rate equal to 95% at 48 hour and 87.5% at one week in the orthotopic liver transplantation in the pig. PMID- 2518308 TI - [Effort hernia of the diaphragm: apropos of a case]. AB - The so-called stress diaphragmatic hernias are very unusual in the group of post traumatic hernias. The Authors report a case and consider clinical, anatomical as well as pathophysiological aspects of the disease. Diagnostic procedures and therapeutic approach are also stressed. PMID- 2518309 TI - [A case of epidermoid cyst of the testis]. AB - The epidermoid cyst of the testis represents about 1% of all testicle tumours. The average age of presentation ranges from the second and the fourth decade of life. Its clinical features do not differ from those of a testis malignancy. Preliminary clinical and laboratory findings do not determine the diagnosis. The Authors report a case and review the Literature (about 150 cases up to 1985). Therapeutic strategy is also discussed: orchiectomy or simple removal of the cyst. PMID- 2518307 TI - [Toxic megacolon: physiopathologic mechanism and surgical choices]. AB - Toxic megacolon is the most dreadful complication arising in patients affected with inflammatory bowel diseases. Its incidence is rather rare, bur mortality rate is significantly high (about 40% of cases). Pathological modifications occurring in toxic megacolon deeply influence evolution and prognosis of this complication and, consequently, surgical choices. Starting from the pathophysiology of toxic megacolon, the Authors review their experience with acute colitis, emphasizing the need for a radical treatment, as only total colectomy can assure, versus Turnbull's operation or more decompression of the bowel. To save the colon means, in fact, to leave the source of sepsis "in situ". The authors experienced Turnbull's procedure only in one of the patients observed with "quoad vitam" poor results. PMID- 2518310 TI - [Nephro-colic fistula: a clinical case]. AB - The authors discuss a case of nephro-colic fistula recently observed. The patient, treated by radical cystectomy for diffuse bladder carcinoma, had a nephrostomic drainage. Clinical and diagnostic considerations are reported. PMID- 2518311 TI - [Primary resection in occlusions caused by cancer of the left colon]. AB - Based on a survey of 47 cases of left colonic occlusive cancer operated on at the Emergency Surgery Department-University of Rome "La Sapienza", the authors concluded that in such condition, when the patient is not seriously ill, the Hartmann procedure is a valid alternative to the anastomosis-resection because: a) it solves intestinal obstruction in a short time with consequent improvement of general conditions; b) it allows to perform the second oncologically radical operation early with less risk of neoplastic spread. The latter procedure, therefore, is carried out under better conditions, relative to the stage of the disease and the status of the patient. PMID- 2518312 TI - [Comparison of 3 different approaches to central veins in total parenteral nutrition]. AB - The authors report their experience related to a series of 96 consecutive central venous catheters location through subclavian, right internal jugular, basilic and cephalic veins for TPN administration. Because of the specific complications reported, they are in favour of the trans-basilic peripheral approach for a short term TPN; the internal jugular or the subclavian way are indicated for long term ones. In addition, they stress the importance to limit the use of multilumen catheters just when absolutely necessary, due to the increased infection percentage. PMID- 2518313 TI - [Resection of liver metastasis of colo-rectal cancer]. AB - Surgical resection currently represents the only available approach to improve the survival rate of patients with liver metastases from carcinoma of colon and rectum. The mean 5-year survival rate in patients treated with liver resection is 25% (with a range from 16 to 45%). Despite the lack of safe criteria for selection of patients with liver metastases, the following factors can give indications to surgical resection: evidence of single or multiple, but unilobar, metastases; lack of hepatic hilum metastases; easy approach; satisfactory liver function after resection; staging and grading of primary tumor, timing between resection of primary tumor and diagnosis of liver metastases; safe margin of liver resection (10 mm) from metastatic lesions. To improve the surgical treatment of liver metastases from colo-rectal cancer, larger series of patients and aggressive surgical approach are needed, with mortality rates acceptable for long-term better results. PMID- 2518315 TI - [Indications and results of 977 cases of papillosphincterostomy]. PMID- 2518314 TI - [Current status of the emergency surgical management of closed trauma of the thorax]. AB - The authors discuss problems related to emergency surgical management of non penetrating thoracic injuries. With reference to their own experience and current literature, they underline the etiologic, pathophysiologic, diagnostic and therapeutic features of the most frequent indications to the surgical treatment. PMID- 2518317 TI - [Partial papillosphincterotomy: specification on indications and technical notes]. PMID- 2518316 TI - [Papillostomy: indication, surgical technic and results]. PMID- 2518318 TI - [Surgical papillosphincterotomy: indications and limits]. PMID- 2518320 TI - [Endoscopic papillosphincterotomy today]. PMID- 2518319 TI - [Indications for papillosphincterotomy in accordance with the modern diagnostic technics]. PMID- 2518321 TI - Liquid and solid selective differential media for the detection and enumeration of L. monocytogenes and other Listeria spp. AB - A selective and differential medium (PALCAM agar) was elaborated for the isolation and enumeration of Listeria monocytogenes. PALCAM is based on Columbia agar with 0.05% glucose made selective by the addition of 0.001% polymyxin B, 0.0005% acriflavin, 1.5% lithium chloride and 0.002% ceftazidime. The diagnostic traits were attained by the incorporation of (i) 0.08% aesculin and 0.05% ferric salt; and (ii) 1% mannitol plus 0.008% phenol red. PALCAM recovered test strains of L. monocytogenes and other Listeria spp quantitatively and suppressed most other bacteria of common occurrence in fresh food. L. monocytogenes colonies were approximately 2 mm grey-green with a black sunken centre and a black halo on a cherry-red background. The occasional Enterococcus or Staphylococcus strains developing on the medium gave rise to grey colonies with a brown-green halo or yellow colonies with a yellow halo. PALCAM was the preferred medium out of 13 tested Listeria selective agars in current use. A similar differential enrichment broth, L-PALCAMY was developed based on peptone yeast extract broth with 2.5% egg yolk emulsion. The diagnostic traits and inhibitors used in this medium were the same as in PALCAM agar, through in different concentrations. Growth rate and cellcrop of L. monocytogenes in L-PALCAMY were of the same order as in Columbia broth. The growth of the majority of other bacteria of common occurrence in fresh foods was inhibited. The medium recovered L. monocytogenes more effectively from severely contaminated food than other current enrichment media. PMID- 2518322 TI - A DNA probe specific for L. monocytogenes in the genus Listeria. AB - Two DNA fragments encoding part of the listeriolysin O of Listeria monocytogenes have been used as probes in Southern blot experiments to detect the presence of the gene in the genus Listeria. Under stringent conditions, and using a fragment internal to the gene, only L. monocytogenes reacted with the probe. PMID- 2518324 TI - Incidence, types, and management of cancer in patients with neurofibromatosis. AB - Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) is a common genetic disease with an incidence of 1 in 3,000 to 4,000. Clinical manifestations may include cafe-au-lait macules, axillary freckling, neurofibromas, Lisch nodules, skeletal dysplasias, learning disabilities, and a variety of neoplasms. In persons with NF1, some malignancies occur at an increased incidence compared to the general population. These include central nervous system astrocytomas, especially involving the visual pathways; ependymomas; meningiomas; neurofibrosarcomas; rhabdomyosarcomas; nonlymphocytic leukemias; and pheochromocytomas. The authors discuss the dysplastic and malignant features associated with NF and the concept of NF as a "neurocristopathy." PMID- 2518323 TI - Studies on damage to sunflower seeds: water activity, germination, acidity index and aflatoxin B1 presence. AB - The significance of fungal contamination during the storage of sunflower seeds has been investigated. Samples were taken during 7 months at 45 day-intervals. Water activity, seed germination, presence of aflatoxin B1 and free fatty acids were monitored. It was demonstrated that water activity increased during storage, germinability decreased, the content of free fatty acid increased and so did the content of aflatoxin B1. PMID- 2518325 TI - Decreased prostacyclin levels in sickle-cell disease. PMID- 2518326 TI - A review of astrocytoma in childhood. AB - Between 1954 and 1984, 282 children with astrocytoma were included in the Manchester Children's Tumour Registry (MCTR), giving an overall incidence of 9.3 per million person-years. There were 110 children with adult astrocytoma and 172 children with juvenile astrocytoma. The five-year survival for adult astrocytoma was 15% and 75% for juvenile astrocytoma. There were no significant improvements in survival with time. There were 21 children with neurofibromatosis (NF) and 4 children had tuberous sclerosis. Some children had other recognized syndromes and others had major or minor abnormalities. Nine children had second tumors, mainly associated with NF, and seven siblings had malignant tumors. A number of mothers of these children were found to have breast cancer. Some of these families may represent examples of the Li-Fraumeni cancer family syndrome. We conclude that astrocytomas is an important problem in childhood and that a proportion of cases may have a genetic origin. PMID- 2518327 TI - Fatal encephalopathy with ifosfamide/mesna. PMID- 2518328 TI - Special aspects of timing of liver transplantation in patients with liver cirrhosis. AB - The introduction of liver transplantation as a therapeutic procedure in the treatment of chronic liver disease has accelerated efforts to establish objective criteria in the evaluation of the prognosis of chronic liver disease. Evaluation of the optimum time for liver replacement involves the estimation of the spontaneous prognosis and the possible prognosis after transplantation. Because both items develop dynamically in different directions, criteria for the best time for the indication of liver transplantation are controversial; clinical deterioration of the patient seems to mark the beginning of this time even if the dynamic process of the evolution of clinical complications are taken into account. The change in biochemical parameters is more likely to define the end point of this period when transplantation could be performed with reasonable success. The development of scores from multivariate statistical analyses has to include the aetiology of the underlying liver disease, but also the specific dynamics of the course of the disease. If these presumptions are fulfilled, the use of such scores seems to be a great step forward to the goal of objective criteria to define the optimum time for liver transplantation. PMID- 2518329 TI - Aspects of pancreatic islet transplantation in diabetes mellitus. AB - The justification for pancreatic or islet transplantation in diabetes mellitus is to halt progression of diabetic vascular complications. Although this goal has so far not been achieved, technical progress in transplanting the whole or segmental, vascularized pancreas has been remarkable. However, the operation is complicated and not without risk; immune rejection is furthermore a major problem, and the availability of suitable organs is limited. Transplantation of isolated pancreatic islet grafts, i.e. isolated islets or fetal pancreas, has therefore emerged as an attractive alternative. Iso-, allo- or xenografts of such preparations have been found to reverse diabetes in experimental animals. Only a minor operation is required and islets, although highly immunogenic, may be accessible to immunomodulation in vitro in order to decrease or abolish the allograft rejection and prevent cells from becoming targets for the autoimmune assault. However, problems and difficulties have emerged in this context also. Thus, islets are extremely difficult to isolate from the adult human pancreas. Such glands, be they adult or fetal, are not easily available, and clinical trials have so far remained without documented success. Considerable efforts are being made to overcome the difficulties encountered in islet transplantation. Attempts are being made to improve the techniques for preparation of clean and viable islets and to understand critical factors in the cellular interactions between the graft and the host after transplantation. Factors of importance in this context are the nutritional requirements of the graft and the vascularization process at the site of implantation. In order to provide unlimited access to cells with a high potential for insulin production and adaptive growth in the diabetic recipient, ongoing research is also directed towards methods for preparation of porcine fetal and adult islets suitable for xenotransplantation. The obvious problems involved in immune rejection of the grafted tissue are being investigated with respect both to the possibility of immunomodulation of the graft in vitro, the design of new immunosuppressive drugs, and the possibility of immuno-isolation of the insulin-producing cells with the aid of artificial membranes. PMID- 2518330 TI - Pancreatic transplantation or intensive insulin therapy? PMID- 2518331 TI - The importance of patient monitoring in clinical cytokine trials: use of serum markers to define biologically active doses. AB - Due to their pleiotropic activities, network-like interactions, unknown mode of action and peculiar pharmacokinetics, the in vivo application of cytokines in clinical therapy studies is a difficult task. This paper deals with two therapeutic strategies which imply either maximum tolerated or biological active doses of human recombinant cytokines. Evidence is presented that the serum markers beta-2-microglobulin, which relates to HLA-AB antigen biosynthesis, and neopterin, which relates to macrophage activation, are useful response parameters for the definition of biological activity of IFN-alpha and IFN-gamma. Defined by such means, biological active doses are shown to be considerably less toxic than maximum tolerated doses, but are equally or more effective in the treatment of certain malignant disease states. PMID- 2518332 TI - Neuropsychological results of long-term therapy with oxiracetam in patients with dementia of Alzheimer type and multi-infarct dementia in comparison with a control group. AB - The cognitive and behavioral effects of oxiracetam therapy during long-term treatment in patients with dementia of Alzheimer type (DAT) and multi-infarct dementia (MID) were studied in comparison with a historical control group. Twenty DAT/MID outpatients, aged 54-86 years, received oxiracetam (800 mg twice a day) for a period of 6 months. Another 20 DAT/MID outpatients, aged 67-85 years, were selected from our clinical records in order to obtain a control group of patients matched for age, sex, diagnosis, baseline Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) score and follow-up duration. All the patients were diagnosed as having mild to moderate degrees of dementia as defined by a baseline MMSE score between 14 and 24. The patients of both groups underwent, both at baseline and after 6 months, the following neuropsychological tests: MMSE, Idiopathic Cerebral Dysfunction Scale, Babcock Test, Gibson Spiral, Toulouse-Pieron Test. Statistical analysis of experimental data demonstrated that at baseline the two groups were comparable. At the end of the study period the oxiracetam group scored significantly better on the majority of the tests evaluating memory, attention, orientation, concentration and psychomotricity than the control group, in which a worsening trend was seen on the whole. No side effects were seen during oxiracetam treatment. The present study, showing positive clinical findings after long-term oxiracetam therapy in controlled conditions, confirms that this drug can be a useful pharmacological treatment for mild to moderate degrees of dementia. PMID- 2518333 TI - Evaluation of two new automated enzymoimmunometric assays for serum follitropin and lutropin. AB - Two new enzymoimmunoassays for FSH and LH adapted to the ES 600 analyzer (Boehringer Mannheim Diagnostics) were evaluated. The limit of detection was below 0.5 mIU/ml. Precision was excellent, the intra-assay coefficients of variation ranged from 1.2 to 2.2%, and the interassay variations from 2.0 to 2.8%. Both methods compared well with other commercial enzyme immunoassays, with correlation coefficients for FSH and LH of 0.988 and 0.974, respectively. There was no interference on the assays by the rheumatoid factor. The results of an external quality control assured the reliability of the measurements. Preliminary reference values were obtained. PMID- 2518334 TI - [Changes caused by staphylococcal protein A and gamma interferon on the natural cytotoxic activity in patients with cancer]. AB - The effects on natural killer (NK) activity of in vitro incubation of effector cells with staphylococcal Protein A (SPA) and gamma interferon (gamma IFN) in patients with different types of tumors have been compared. The modifications induced in NK activity by these two immunomodulators were assessed using the K 562 cell line and autologous tumoral cells as targets of natural cytotoxicity. The results obtained show that both SPA and gamma-IFN are good inducers of NK activity against the K-562 cell line. SPA always shows itself more efficient than gamma-IFN in increasing the basal level of NK activity. The cytotoxicity against autologous tumoral cells was also greatly increased by the two immunomodulators assayed, SPA being also in this type of assay more efficient than gamma-IFN. Taken the data as a whole the increases induced by SPA and gamma-IFN are parallel both against K-562 and autologous tumoral cells. However when the different types of tumours are considered separately some discrepancies between NK activity against K-562 and autologous tumoral cells appear. The effects of SPA as a modifier of NK activity against autologous tumoral cells looks clear. In our experiments incubation of effector cells with SPA behaves more effectively than the well established gamma-IFN model in the induction of this type of activity. The intimate mechanisms by which SPA exerts its action are quite interesting and merit further investigation. PMID- 2518335 TI - [Usefulness of neuroendocrine function tests in the differential diagnosis of depression]. AB - In order to find the correlation between dexamethasone suppression test (DST) and TSH response to TRH in the differential diagnosis of subtypes of depression, and to evaluate the possible relationship between Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adreno cortisol axis, Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Thyroid axis function, psychopathological symptoms, and the possible influence of age and sex, 107 depressed patients were studied. The relationship between both tests (DST and THS response to TRH) and the subtypes of depression was unspecific. The results did not show psychopathologic differences between depression subgroups. DST appeared to be a good marker for the "state" of illness, whereas TSH was better as a predictor for the outcome. PMID- 2518336 TI - [The oncologic patient: nursing care based on physiopathologic knowledge]. AB - The patient with cancer is affected both by the development of the neoplasia and by the toxic action of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, often used at aggressive therapeutic intervals to eradicate tumourous cells. The most serious physiological consequences are the occurrence of gaseous exchange within tissues, the risk of infection and haemorrhage, the change in levels of nutrition and evacuation, the deterioration in tissue structure and oral mucous and the change in sleeping patterns and sense of well-being. As far as psychological, social and emotional problems are concerned, the main difficulties which occur are a sense of anxiety and fear and a change in one's self-image. The present article explains what are the main factors involved in producing the changes in the situations mentioned above and the physiopathological mechanisms underlying them, an understanding of which is essential both to prevent them from occurring and to provide the proper nursing care. Finally, it explains what information should be given to a patient and/or his family in order to help him re-integrate back into his normal environment in periods of remission. PMID- 2518337 TI - Effect of carbaryl on the respiration, glycolysis and gluconeogenesis in isolated liver cells. AB - The effects of 1-naphthyl-N-methylcarbamate (carbaryl) upon respiration, glycolysis and gluconeogenesis in isolated rat hepatocytes was studied. The carbaryl at 0.01; 0.1 and 1.0 mM were dissolved in 1% dimethylsulphoxide. Concentrations of carbaryl at 1.0 mM reduces oxygen consumption. The decrease in the metabolic production of CO2 is significant at even the lowest of the concentrations. The utilization of glucose and the endogenous production of lactic is unaffected by treatment with carbaryl. The net glycolytic flux is decreased. On the other hand, the carbaryl inhibits lactate-gluconeogenesis at all concentrations of substrate studied. Gluconeogenesis from fructose or pyruvate or alanine is also inhibited by carbaryl 1 mM. Carbaryl decreases the lactic dehydrogenase activity but this diminution is only significant for the greatest concentration assayed. The activity of glucose-6-phosphatase is enhanced by carbaryl, but the increase is only significant for 1 mM carbaryl. The glutamic oxalacetic transferase cytoplasmic and mitochondrial activities are inhibited by 0.1 mM and 1.0 mM carbaryl. Carbaryl decreases glucose production by hepatic cells, and suggests that the carbaryl-induced hyperglycemia in the fasted animal would be due to deficiencies in the peripheral utilization of the glucose. PMID- 2518338 TI - Hemodynamic and metabolic studies in stroke. PMID- 2518339 TI - The role of fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography in the evaluation of seizure disorders. PMID- 2518340 TI - [Effects of central Ca2+ on analgesic action of lappaconitine]. AB - Lappaconitine (LA), isolated from Aconitum sinomontanum Nakai, was characterized as analgesic principle by our laboratory. The analgesic effect of ip LA 6 mg/kg as measured in the rat tail-flick test was reduced by icv CaCl2 or MgCl2 0.1 or 1 mumol/rat. BaCl2 was inactive. The analgesic action induced by LA was potentiated by ethylene glycol tetraacetic acid (EGTA, 0.2 mumol/rat icv) but not by ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA, 0.2 or 0.4 mumol/rat icv). The calcium antagonists nifedipine (5 mg/kg ip) and verapamil (1 mumol/rat icv) partially reversed the Ca2+ antagonistic effect on LA analgesia, although nifedipine did not enhance LA analgesic action and only at 15 min after medication did verapamil exhibit enhancement of LA analgesia. The analgesic activity of LA was reduced and augmented by microinjection of CaCl2 0.5 mumol and EGTA 50 nmol to periaqueductal gray (PAG) area, respectively. These results suggest that LA can produce analgesia, possibly through a decrease in cellular calcium availability and PAG may be involved in the Ca2+ antagonistic effect on LA analgesia. PMID- 2518341 TI - Three-dimensional reconstruction and synaptic architecture of cerebellar glomeruli in the rat. AB - Cerebellar glomeruli of simple type were studied by quantitative morphological and stereological methods. It has been found that in one glomerulus the centrally located mossy terminal forms synaptic contacts with about 50 granule cell dendrites, all deriving from distinct granule cells. The three-dimensional reconstruction of the glomeruli revealed that the terminal portion of the dendrites, the so called digits, are elongated, thin processes. Synaptic contacts by mossy terminals are established exclusively on the dendritic digits. Although these digits are the main postsynaptic targets for the Golgi axon terminals as well, these inhibitory endings might also synapse with the proximal portion of the granule cell dendrites. PMID- 2518343 TI - S-100 protein immunoreactivity in human islets of Langerhans. AB - S-100 protein-containing cells were demonstrated by immunogold silver staining in human islets of Langerhans from patients with chronic pancreatitis (CP) with (n = 6) (Group I) or without (n = 6) (Group II) diabetes mellitus, (DM) and from nondiabetic, non-pancreatic controls (n = 6) (Group III). In all three groups S 100 protein containing cells were observed in all islets of Langerhans throughout the pancreas. Quantitative analysis of cell composition of islets did not reveal significant differences in S-100 protein cell content between the three groups. When double immunohistochemical staining was used to demonstrate different endocrine cell types (insulin, glucagon and pancreatic polypeptide) and S-100 protein immunoreactive cells, the latter proved to be a distinct cell type. Somatostatin-producing cells and S-100 protein-containing cells were usually also present as two distinct cell populations, but positive staining for both S-100 protein and somatostatin was occasionally observed within the same cells. PMID- 2518342 TI - Chronomorphology of the duodenum in man. AB - The aim of the present study was to investigate the possible existence of rhythmicity of some morphological structures of the duodenum [correction of jejunum] in man. The height of intestinal villi was found to vary significantly during the 24 h time span, being higher during the day than during the night, when the proportion between small and medium size villi changed (p less than 0.05). The highest mitotic activity was found at 200 and at 600, and the lowest at 1000 and 1400 (p less than 0.01). Both height and width of microvilli did not change during the 24 h span, while thickness of the glycocalyx was slightly higher during the day when compared to the night. There were no significant circadian changes of Paneth cell granularity. We conclude that circadian rhythmicity of duodenum [correction of jejunum] morphology in man is less distinct than in animals, but that significant circadian changes in some parameters do exist. PMID- 2518344 TI - Comparison of the effects of NaF and CaF2 on rat gastric mucosa. A light-, scanning- and transmission electron microscopic study. AB - Rat stomachs were studied after intragastrically administered, repeated doses of 0.1 N HCl, 100 mmol/l NaF, 50 mmol/l CaF2 in 0.1 N HCl, respectively. NaF produced extensive desquamation and cell injury, while CaF2 caused some desquamation and a slight decrease in secretory activity as revealed by light microscopic, SEM and TEM examinations. PMID- 2518345 TI - Dendritic cells of the lymphoepithelial organs. PMID- 2518346 TI - Dendritic changes in the hippocampus of aged rats. AB - Age-related changes in dendritic branches in stratum lacunosum-moleculare of the CA1 hippocampal field were examined using quantitative ultrastructural methods. A decrease by 38% was demonstrated in the number of dendritic branch profiles per tissue square area in the group of aged (24-month-old) rats as compared to that in the group of young adult (3-month-old) rats. The total volume fraction and total surface of dendrites per volume neuropil were decreased by 23% and 35%, respectively in aged rats. The percentage area of neuropil occupied by dendritic branch profiles was smaller in aged rats (by 22%) than that in young adult rats. The width of the layers including the apical dendrites of the CA1 hippocampal pyramidal cells was unchanged in the group of aged rats. The degree of the changes in different parameters examined suggests that the atrophy and loss of dendrites in aging hippocampus affect preferentially terminal branches. PMID- 2518347 TI - Immunohistological demonstration of lymph node reticulum cells in the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome related complex. A study in Bouin-fixed tissues. AB - The results of an immunohistochemical study on paraffin sections of the lymph nodes from 5 patients with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) related complex (ARC) are presented. The distribution and frequency of follicular dendritic cells (FDC) and of interdigitating cells (IDC) were examined with the monoclonal antibodies J3D3 (directed against the C3b complement receptor, CD 35) and IOB1a (specific for the C3D, CD21) as well as with the polyclonal anti-S-100 protein antiserum in Bouin-fixed, paraffin-embedded sections using a Streptavidin biotin-peroxidase technique. Disruption of the follicular FDC network was demonstrated. No major alteration of the IDC was noted. The immunomorphological patterns observed in this study were comparable with the previously reported lymph node alterations studied in frozen section. PMID- 2518348 TI - Relative growth of the human temporal bone in the prenatal period. AB - Thirty right temporal bones of Brazilian fetuses (ranging from 14th to 36th weeks) were studied by the allometric method in order to define the pattern of the whole temporal bone weight growth and the weight growth of the temporal bone portions: squamous, petrous and tympanic. These data were compared to fetal weight. The increase of the data of the temporal bone shows a positive allometry except for the tympanic portion (isometry). The squamous portion shows the highest allometric coefficient. These data are important to the knowledge of the human skull growth. PMID- 2518349 TI - Myenteric plexus of frog large intestine: light and electron microscopy of fiber system and neurons. AB - The myenteric plexus of the frog large intestine was studied by means of silver impregnation, NADH-diaphorase histochemistry and electron microscopy. The main fiber bundles of the myenteric plexus are situated between the longitudinal and circular smooth muscle layers. Most of the branches of this main plexus could be followed into the circular muscle layer. The diameter of the large nerve bundles was demonstrated by impregnation to be 7-8 microns. NADH-diaphorase histochemistry revealed a random distribution of the nerve cells; the nerve cells did not form ganglia. The maximal profile of these mostly multipolar cells was 75 100 microns 2. The packing density of nerve cells was 710 +/- 23 per cm2. At the electron microscopic level, the plexus consisted of a number of unmyelinated nerve profiles, a few myelinated axons, Schwann cells and neurons. The proportion of myelinated fibers did not exceed 1%. The nerve profiles contained vesicles, small agranular vesicles or mixed vesicle populations. Synapses were extremely rare in the neuropil. The possibility and importance of non-synaptic transmitter release and presumed transmitter substances are discussed. PMID- 2518351 TI - Experimentally induced acute changes in veins studied by scanning microscopy. AB - Endothelial damage caused by hypoxia and the local administration of Varicocid, or by using vascular clamps on the jugular vein of rabbits, was studied under a scanning electron microscope. Adhering platelets and fibrin were found only in the acutely damaged veins with endothelial defects. Swelling and vacuolization of endothelial cells did not induce intravascular coagulation. Adhering thrombocyte aggregates and fibrin strands can be found on the venous wall after acute changes under a scanning microscope only if part or all of the endothelial lining has been lost. Intravascular coagulation is not induced by swelling or vacuolization. The jugular vein of rabbits was studied after hypoxia, the administration of Varicocid and the use of vascular clamps. PMID- 2518350 TI - Comparative study of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)--immunoreactivity in the rat and monkey cerebellum. AB - Vibratome sections of perfusion-fixed rat and monkey cerebella were incubated with an antiserum to glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Immunolabelled elements showed in both species a principally similar distribution but the presence of long, transverse branches of Bergmann fibres was found to be characteristic to the monkey cerebellum. It is concluded that current methods enable fine interspecies differences of GFAP-localization to be demonstrated. This bears a relevance to the use of GFAP-immunostaining as a diagnostic tool in neuropathology. PMID- 2518352 TI - Pyoderma in childhood. PMID- 2518353 TI - Ultrastructural localization of the GTP-binding protein Go in neurons. AB - The ultrastructural localization of Go, a GTP-binding protein (G protein) highly expressed in nervous tissues, was performed in cultured fetal and adult murine neurons, using affinity-purified polyclonal antibodies against the alpha subunit of the Go protein (Go alpha). These antibodies recognized denatured Go alpha and both the native Go alpha-subunit and the Go alpha beta gamma heterotrimer. At the ultrastructural level, the positive immunoreactivity detected in cultured cells as well as in thin frozen sections, showed that Go was largely distributed in cell bodies and neuritic cytoplasm. Labelling was principally noted on the cytoplasmic face of the plasma membrane lining the cell body and the neurites, especially in 'cell-cell' contacts, but also in the cytoplasmic matrix, between endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi cisternae. No immunoreactivity was observed on the inner face of the pre- or postsynaptic membranes in both adult brain and in cultured neurons. This last finding strongly suggests that the Go protein is not involved in transducing chemical signals at the level of synapses, but more probably modulates the synaptic functions by controlling the activity of effectors localized outside of the synaptic densities. PMID- 2518354 TI - Differential expression of the receptors for epidermal growth factor and insulin in the developing human placenta. AB - The detailed cellular distribution of epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptors and insulin receptors during the development of the human placenta was examined. We show that EGF receptors are expressed by villous cytotrophoblast cells in first trimester human placentae. However, where these cells proliferate to form extravillous cytotrophoblast cell columns, there is a dramatic decrease in EGF receptor expression. There is no such differential expression of insulin receptors on this cell population. In contrast, both EGF-and insulin-receptors are present throughout gestation on the microvillous membrane of the terminally differentiated and non-proliferative syncytiotrophoblast although, at term, EGF but not insulin-receptors are also found on the basolateral membrane of this epithelium. We further show that EGF receptors isolated from first trimester and term human placentae have functional tyrosine kinase activities but differ in their extent of glycosylation. These results suggest that EGF receptors probably play several distinct functional roles in these epithelial cells depending on their proliferative capacity and differentiation status. PMID- 2518356 TI - Immunochemical comparison of pertussis toxin substrates in brain and peripheral tissues. AB - The tissue distribution of pertussis toxin-sensitive GTP-binding proteins was examined using specific antibodies raised against the purified alpha-subunit of G0 from bovine brain or against synthetic peptides predicted from cDNAs for distinct Gi subtypes. GTP-binding proteins were partially purified from membrane fractions prepared from rabbit tissues including brain, heart, liver, lung, erythrocytes and neutrophils. Brain contained both G0 and Gi1. Gi1 was also found to be abundant in heart. All peripheral tissues contained readily detectable amounts of Gi2, whereas only barely detectable amounts of Gi2 were found in brain. Gi3 was found to be prominent in erythrocytes and exists as a minor component of G proteins in neutrophils and liver. Thus, Gi2 appears to be widely disseminated in peripheral rabbit tissues, while other pertussis toxin substrates are more limited in their distribution. PMID- 2518355 TI - Foetal calf serum enhances cholera toxin-catalysed ADP-ribosylation of the pertussis toxin-sensitive guanine nucleotide binding protein, Gi2, in rat glioma C6BU1 cells. AB - The major G-protein of rat glioma C6BU1 cells corresponds immunologically to Gi2. In the absence of guanine nucleotides, this protein is shown to be a substrate for ADP-ribosylation catalysed by both cholera and pertussis toxins. Under these conditions, a receptor for a growth factor, which has previously been shown to be activated by foetal calf serum, modulated the effects of both cholera and pertussis toxins on the G-protein. These ligand-mediated alterations of cholera and pertussis toxin-catalysed ADP ribosylation demonstrate that, in this system, the growth factor receptor interacts functionally with Gi2. PMID- 2518357 TI - Mechanism of the activation of arachidonic acid release by oxysterols in NRK 49F cells: role of calcium. AB - We previously demonstrated that oxysterols added to the culture medium of NRK 49F cells labelled with [14C] arachidonic acid potentiated arachidonic acid (AA) release and prostaglandin (PG) E2 biosynthesis induced by the activation of these cells with fetal calf serum (FCS). In the absence of FCS, oxysterols had no effect on AA release. As phospholipase (Plase) A2 activity is Ca2(+)-dependent, we investigated whether oxysterol potentiating effect on AA release was related to an effect of these compounds on cell Ca2+ concentration. In this paper, we show that the intensity of potentiation by oxysterol varies with the external cell Ca2+ concentration; when external Ca2+ is chelated by EGTA, the oxysterol effect persists, though it is decreased. The Ca2+ channel inhibitor nifedipine does not decrease the potentiating effect of 25-OH cholesterol, indicating that, if oxysterol favours Ca2+ entry into the cell, the nifedipine inhibited channel is not involved. At the usual concentration (5 micrograms/ml), oxysterols are not able to increase, immediately or after a short time of contact (90 min) the concentration of intracellular free Ca2+ ([Ca2+])i measured by fluorescence of Quin-2; at very high concentration of oxysterol (25 micrograms/ml), [Ca2+]i only slightly increases (+30%). The liberation of AA induced by cell activation with the Ca2+ ionophore ionomycin is also potentiated by 25-OH cholesterol. All these observations are not in favour of a proper effect of oxysterols on cell Ca2+ level. PMID- 2518358 TI - Bradykinin effects on phospholipid metabolism and its relation to arachidonic acid turnover in neuroblastoma x glioma hybrid cells (NG 108-15). AB - In neuroblastoma x glioma hybrid cells (NG 108-15) labelled with [32P]-trisodium phosphate, [3H]-inositol and [14C]-arachidonic acid, bradykinin stimulated the hydrolysis of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) while it had no effect on the release of [14C]-arachidonic acid (AA). The effect on PIP2 was time- and dose-dependent with a maximal effect on [3H]-inositol- and [32P]-labelled cells after 10-30 s of stimulation with 10(-6) M bradykinin. However, the hydrolysis of [14C]-AA labelled PIP2 was delayed compared to the effect on [3H]- and [14C]-PIP2 and was not detectable until after 60 s of stimulation. Bradykinin stimulation resulted in an increased formation of [3H]-inositol phosphates (IP) and [32P]- and [14C]-phosphatidic acid (PA) but the time course for PA formation did not follow the time-course for PIP2 hydrolysis. A reduced labelling of [32P]- and [14C]-phosphatidylcholine was also found in stimulated cells suggesting that PA may derive from other sources than PIP2. In conclusion, our results indicate that bradykinin activates phospholipase C, but not phospholipase A2, in NG 108-15 cells. PMID- 2518359 TI - Highly sensitive enzyme immunoassay for bovine chromogranin A: application for studies of regional distribution in bovine central nervous system. AB - Bovine chromogranin A (CGA) was purified by three steps of column chromatography to a single-band purity in sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The antibody against this preparation was purified by a CGA coupled Sepharose column, and F(ab')2 and Fab' of the antibody IgG were prepared by enzymatic digestion. An enzyme immunoassay (EIA) system was developed with the F(ab')2 immobilized on polystyrene balls and the Fab' labeled with beta-D galactosidase. The EIA was able to detect 1 pg of CGA and was three to four orders more sensitive compared with any radioimmunoassay systems hitherto reported. Several neural acidic proteins (dopamine beta-hydroxylase, neuron specific enolase, S-100a protein, and brain-type creatine kinase) showed no cross reaction. Using this EIA, CGA was detected in all regions of bovine central nervous system. CGA concentrations were within a narrow range, being lowest in the cerebellar white matter and highest in the putamen (17.3 and 78.1 ng/mg protein, respectively). The concentrations were extremely low compared to the concentration in the adrenal medulla (205,000 ng/mg protein). The highly sensitive EIA system should be useful for studies of materials containing very small amounts of CGA. PMID- 2518360 TI - Antigen presentation by cells that are not of bone marrow origin. AB - T cells do not see antigen directly, but rather recognize antigen only when displayed by an antigen-presenting cell (APC). APC take up, internalize, and degrade antigen and present the relevant antigenic fragment in association with class II major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules to antigen-specific T cells. In addition to presenting the antigenic fragment-MHC complex to T cells, APC must also provide a variety of antigen-nonspecific influences to T cells for antigen recognition to result in T-cell activation. These influences include the effects of various cytokines and signals transmitted by a number of nonspecific receptor-ligand interactions. Traditionally, cells of bone marrow origin that express class II MHC molecules, such as mononuclear phagocytes and B lymphocytes, have been regarded as the only APC. Recently, however, it has been suggested that under various physiologic and pathologic conditions, other tissue cells may develop the capacity to express class II MHC molecules and function as APC. The capacity of these cells to function as APC, however, varies widely, depending on the cell type examined. One determinant of the capacity of a cell to function as an APC appears to be its ability to provide antigen-nonspecific signals. Cells with limited abilities to provide these signals have limited APC function. Indeed, it has been suggested that such cells may induce antigen-specific tolerance. In contrast, cells with the capacity to deliver these signals function as fully competent APC. The functional phenotype of the responding T cell may also vary, depending on the nonspecific signals provided by the APC. Some APC may preferentially stimulate antigen-specific T cells that promote the immune response, whereas others promote the activation of suppressor T cells, thereby limiting the response. Thus, it is likely that cells that are not of bone marrow origin play a role in normal immune responses. Moreover, they may also be important in the development of certain forms of autoimmunity. PMID- 2518362 TI - [Transdermal use of nitroglycerin]. AB - Transdermal nitroglycerin becomes more and more common mode of pharmacotherapy as this form of nitroglycerin ensures permanent therapeutic level of the drug in the blood serum for a long time. The largest clinical experience with transdermal nitroglycerin has been gathered in effort angina although it is used in all forms of ischemic heart disease. It has been documented that transdermal nitroglycerin improves exercise tolerance, increases pain threshold, delays the onset of ST segment depression in the ECG and decreases the incidence of anginal attacks. Beneficial effects of transdermal nitroglycerin on hemodynamic parameters have been shown also in patients with myocardial infarction, especially complicated by heart failure. First results obtained in the treatment of silent myocardial ischemia are very promising. The development of tolerance requires 12-hour intervals in the use of nitroglycerin patches. PMID- 2518363 TI - [Use of nitroglycerin in the treatment of congestive heart failure]. AB - Nitroglycerin and its derivatives have become widely used agents in the treatment of severe forms of heart failure. Their beneficial effects in this disease results from their ability to reduce preload and afterload of the heart muscle leading to an increase of cardiac index, a decrease in mean pulmonary artery and wedge pressures as well as pulmonary and peripheral vascular resistances. This is associated with reducing the patients' complaints. Intravenous nitrates are used in the treatment of myocardial infarction complicated by an increased left ventricular filling pressure as well as in various forms of acute and worsening left ventricular failure, mainly in pulmonary edema. Oral and transdermal nitrates are administered in chronic congestive heart failure NYHA class III and IV. PMID- 2518361 TI - Effects of cytokines on rat pancreatic islet cell monolayer cultures: distinction between functional and cytotoxic effects on islet beta-cells. AB - Polypeptide products of mononuclear cells of the immune system (cytokines) have been reported to be cytotoxic to the insulin-producing pancreatic islet beta cells. The objective of this study was to distinguish between reversible effects of cytokines on insulin secretion and irreversible cytotoxic effects on the islet beta-cells. When tested as single agents or added together at very low concentrations, interleukin 1 (IL-1), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and interferon gamma (IFN-gamma) inhibited insulin release from rat islet cell monolayer cultures during 4 day incubations; however, this secretory function improved after the cytokines were removed. In contrast, combinations of slightly higher concentrations of IL-1, TNF, and IFN-gamma produced irreversible inhibition of insulin release, as well as decreased cell insulin content and proportional increase in cell lysis, measured as release of 51Cr from labeled islet cell cultures. These findings suggest that cytokine products of T lymphocytes (IFN gamma) and macrophage/monocytic cells (IL-1, TNF) infiltrating pancreatic islets in "autoimmune" diabetes may interact synergistically to produce functional inhibition or lethal cytocidal effects on islet beta-cells, possibly accounting for reversible and irreversible stages of insulin-dependent diabetes. PMID- 2518365 TI - [The role of nitroglycerin in limiting the area of necrosis in myocardial infarction]. AB - Clinical course of myocardial infarction and prognosis depend mainly on the extent of necrosis. A large number of cells in the neurotic zone, despite metabolic changes and contractility disorders may be salvaged providing that the treatment is initiated early enough. Intravenous nitroglycerin is one of the available agents used in limiting infarct size. Its beneficial effects on the myocardial cells in the border zone of the infarct result from a reduction in ventricular preload and afterload, an improvement of myocardial compliance and ventricular contractile function as well as from a redistribution of myocardial blood flow. The direct action of nitroglycerin on the coronary arteries and collaterals without "steal effecta" is also of importance. The results of clinical experiments with intravenous nitroglycerin in acute myocardial infarction are encouraging. By using various techniques to estimate the amount of salvage in the myocardium at risk various authors report a 30-41% salvage with nitroglycerin therapy. PMID- 2518364 TI - [Effect of nitroglycerin on the cardiovascular system]. AB - Nitrates are the most frequent agents used in the treatment of ischemic heart disease. In recent years nitrates have aroused a great interest; new pharmacological and clinical studies concern the mechanism by which nitroglycerin acts on the cell, forms of drugs prepared for intravenous, transdermal or oral (spray) routes of administration as well as sustained release preparations. The complexity of mechanisms of nitroglycerin action makes that nitrates are safe drugs and their action does not depend on the functional state of the myocardium. End-effects i.e. prevention of angina or relief of pain result from nitroglycerin action on the smooth muscles of the peripheral vessels and coronary arteries, on the coronary blood flow and left ventricle as well as on general hemodynamic indices. The role of specific sites of action of nitroglycerin changes depending on various factors and angina--inducing hemodynamic disorders. The phenomenon of nitrate tolerance investigated in recent years requires further studies but the results of the available trials are of considerable practical value. PMID- 2518366 TI - Day hospital and stroke patients. AB - Geriatric day hospitals are commonly used in the rehabilitation of stroke. However, there is little objective evidence about its effect for this condition. The potential advantages and disadvantages are finely balanced and further research, including cost-effectiveness analysis, is needed to define more clearly the role of this expensive facility. PMID- 2518367 TI - [Reinforced glass ionomer restorations in modified Class II cavities]. AB - We report a conservative treatment for superficial approximal caries which consist in a diagonal approach of the lesion, in order to preserve a significant amount of sound tooth and the use of a new glass ionomer cement reinforced with silver particles (Cermet cement) as restorative material. Following the X-ray diagnosis of incipient caries, the new material was placed on the proximal area, combined with the use of a light-cured composite resin in the occlusal surface, where the cavity design was started. The advantages and difficulties of the technique and the main characteristics of Cermet Cement are described in the present article. PMID- 2518368 TI - Dynamic evaluation of renal medullary electrolytes from measurement of tissue electrical admittance. PMID- 2518369 TI - Expression of beta-amyloid precursor protein in reactive astrocytes following neuronal damage. AB - Although the beta-amyloid peptide is an established core component of neuritic plaques that accumulate in Alzheimer's disease, the mechanisms responsible for its deposition are not well understood. We now report that lesions of rat hippocampal neurons cause a time-dependent, long-lasting elevation of immunoreactivity for the beta-amyloid precursor protein (APP) in neighboring astrocytes, a cell type not normally containing the protein. The increase represents astroglial expression of the protein rather than a scavenging of APP released by damaged neurons. Immunoelectron microscopy confirmed that APP containing cells are reactive astroglia, both surrounding capillaries and within the neuropil. These results demonstrate that neuronal damage stimulates APP expression in adult brain and suggest that reactive astrocytes may be a source of the beta-amyloid that forms neuropathological plaques in Alzheimer's disease. PMID- 2518370 TI - Dynamic alterations occur in the levels and composition of transcription factor AP-1 complexes after seizure. AB - Seizure causes a rapid and protracted increase in transcription factor AP-1 levels in the brain. The composition of AP-1 nucleoprotein complexes changes with time after seizure as a result of the sequential appearance and disappearance of Fos and several Fos-related proteins. Although these changes occur over an 8 hr time period, they are triggered by 15 min of seizure. Alterations in the levels and composition of transcription factors may represent one of the molecular mechanisms underlying neuronal adaptation. PMID- 2518371 TI - A metabolically stable analog of 1,4,5-inositol trisphosphate activates a novel K+ conductance in pyramidal cells of the rat hippocampal slice. AB - IP(s)3, a metabolically stable analog of 1,4,5-inositol trisphosphate (IP3), inhibited action potential firing when injected into hippocampal pyramidal cells. This effect was associated with decreased input resistance, a more negative resting potential, outward rectification at depolarized potentials, and an afterhyperpolarization. The response to IP(s)3 was unaffected by antagonists of Na+, Ca2+, and Cl- conductances, but was sensitive to changes in extracellular K+ concentration. The IP(s)3-induced conductance was voltage-dependent, was activated in 10 ms with depolarization, and was blocked by extracellular Ba2+ or intracellular Ca2+ chelation. It was not suppressed by other K+ conductance antagonists. Thus, IP(s)3 may activate a novel K+ conductance in CA1 pyramidal cells. IP3 itself did not elicit this conductance, suggesting it may be rapidly metabolized in these cells. PMID- 2518372 TI - The regulation of amyloid beta protein precursor secretion and its modulatory role in cell adhesion. AB - The regulation and function of two forms of the amyloid beta protein precursor (ABPP) that are released into the growth-conditioned medium of the PC12 nerve cell line were examined. Nerve growth factor increases the release of the form of ABPP without the protease-inhibitor domain relative to the protein containing the protease inhibitor and increases the overall rate of ABPP secretion 2-fold. In contrast, fibroblast growth factor increases the rate of ABPP secretion approximately 7-fold. Both forms of the secreted ABPP molecule are, in turn, able to stimulate adhesion of PC12 cells to substrata to which they are adsorbed about 10-fold more efficiently on a molar basis than Iaminin. PMID- 2518373 TI - Detoxification of cadmium. Ultrastructural study and electron-probe microanalysis of the midgut in a cadmium-resistant strain of Drosophila melanogaster. AB - The midgut of a cadmium-resistant strain of Drosophila melanogaster has been studied at the ultrastructural level and by electron-probe microanalysis (EPMA). Chronic exposure to cadmium leads to a concentration of the metal in a lysosomal system developed in both anterior and posterior segments of the midgut, where it coexists with copper and sulfur. This mechanism apparently ensures a permanent cadmium detoxification and prevents cellular injury. Wild-type flies fed on a cadmium-contaminated medium manifest the same detoxification process. As a result of contamination, copper is stored along the entire length of the midgut, including a part of the middle-midgut previously named 'copper-accumulating region'. Our data demonstrate that the midgut, particularly the posterior segment, is an accumulative organ for both cadmium and copper. The involvement of the metallothionein system in the detoxification process is discussed. PMID- 2518374 TI - Induction of endogenous tumor necrosis factor by OK-432 in ovarian cancer patients with ascites. AB - To four ovarian cancer patients with malignant ascites, 10 KE of OK-432 was intraperitoneally administered four times at 2 day intervals for priming, and 40 KE of OK-432 was given on the 13th day after the first injection for triggering. The changes in blood monocyte and peritoneal macrophage levels and the production of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) by blood mononuclear cells (BMCs) and ascitic lymphoid cells (ALCs) were examined. In the two patients in whom TNF was induced in the ascites, TNF production by BMCs and ALCs was noted during priming. After triggering, increases in both the number of peritoneal macrophages and TNF production by ALCs were noted. In the other two patients, in whom TNF was not detected in the ascites, the ratio of peritoneal macrophages to ALCs did not change throughout the study period, and TNF production by the ALCs was not augmented. These findings suggest that OK-432 can exert a primary effect on both peritoneal macrophages and blood monocytes, and that OK-432 triggering can promote an increase in primed peritoneal macrophages and the release of TNF from these cells. PMID- 2518375 TI - Augmentation of resistance of mice to bacterial infection by a polysaccharide peptidoglycan complex (PSPG) extracted from Lactobacillus casei. AB - A water-soluble polysaccharide-peptidoglycan complex (PSPG) was prepared from heat-killed Lactobacillus casei by digesting the bacteria with N acetylmuramidase. The molecular weight of PSPG was over 30,000, and the polysaccharide portion of PSPG, its main component was composed of rhamnose, glucose, galactose, glucosamine and galactosamine. Mice pretreated intraperitoneally with PSPG survived after a lethal infection with Listeria monocytogenes or Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The growth of infecting bacteria (L. monocytogenes, P. aeruginosa, Salmonella typhimurium, Escherichia coli) in both the peritoneal cavity and the liver was inhibited markedly in the mice that had been treated with PSPG. It was suggested that macrophages may be the main effector for the anti-infectious effect of PSPG since treatment of mice with carrageenan, a selective macrophage blocker, markedly reduced the anti-infectious effect of PSPG. PMID- 2518376 TI - Protein phosphorylation and the dependence on Ca2+ and GTP-gamma-S for exocytosis from permeabilised mast cells. AB - Exocytosis in permeabilised mast cells requires only that the concentrations of Ca2+ and GTP-gamma-S (the essential effectors) are elevated into the micromolar range of concentrations. These act through an unidentified Ca2(+)-binding protein and an uncharacterized G-protein (GE). There is no requirement for ATP in the final stages of the secretory pathway. However, mast cells permeabilised in the absence of ATP rapidly become refractory to stimulation due to a reduction in the affinity for the essential effectors. Here, we show that responsiveness may be restored by the addition of ATP. The characteristics of such ATP-dependent secretion have been examined. Preincubation (prior to permeabilization) of the cells with phorbol ester enhances affinity to Ca2+, and introduction of neomycin reduces Ca2+ affinity. AMG.C16, an ether-linked analogue of diglyceride, inhibits secretion in a manner which can be partially reversed by elevating the concentration of ATP. These observations indicate that while protein phosphorylation does not comprise a step in the triggering of exocytosis, a primed condition most likely involving a state of protein phosphorylation, and maintained by reactions catalysed by protein kinase C, is essential. PMID- 2518377 TI - The control of cytoskeletal actin and exocytosis in intact and permeabilized adrenal chromaffin cells: role of calcium and protein kinase C. AB - The control of cytoskeletal actin and exocytosis was examined in intact and digitonin-permeabilized chromaffin cells. Cytoskeletal actin was assayed by determining the actin content of Triton-insoluble cytoskeletons. The secretagogues nicotine, high K+ and Ba2+ resulted in a rapid reduction in the amount of actin associated with the cytoskeleton. The effect of nicotine but not high K+ on cytoskeletal actin was independent of external Ca2+ and the reduction in cytoskeletal actin was mimicked by the phorbol ester 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate suggesting a role for protein kinase C. In digitonin-permeabilized cells micromolar calcium produced both catecholamine secretion and a reduction in cytoskeletal actin. The reduction in cytoskeletal actin was transient. Secretion was enhanced by the GTP analogue guanosine 5'-(3-O-thio)triphosphate and the analogue also reduced cytoskeletal actin at low calcium levels. The effects of guanosine 5'-(3-O-thio)triphosphate were inhibited by the phospholipase C inhibitor neomycin and were mimicked by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate. An additional GTP analogue, guanyl-5'-yl imidodiphosphate, had no effect on cytoskeletal actin. These results provide further evidence for a requirement for reorganisation of cortical actin in the secretory processes and suggest that the reduction in actin associated with the cytoskeleton may be mediated by protein kinase C and/or calcium in intact and permeabilized chromaffin cells. PMID- 2518378 TI - Lipopolysaccharide, muramyl dipeptide and polyinosinic: polycytidylic acid induce the accumulation of inositol phosphates in blood monocytes and lymphocytes. AB - Rabbit macrophages (Mo) and lymphocytes (Ly) incubated with three structurally dissimilar immunomodulators, lipopolysaccharide (bacterial endotoxin, LPS), polyinosinic: polycytidylic acid (poly-I:C) and muramyl dipeptide (MDP), were found to accumulate inositol phosphates (IPs) in a concentration- and time dependent manner. The threshold concentration of LPS necessary for an increase in IPs in both cell types was less than 1 ng/ml and a maximum effect was observed between 1 and 10 micrograms/ml. The threshold concentrations for poly-I:C and MDP were between 0.1 and 1 microgram/ml for both cell types. Significant increases in the concentration of inositol phosphates occurred between 30 and 60 min after challenge of either cell type with any of the three agents studied. In addition, all three immunomodulators produced a greater accumulation of IPs in macrophages than in mixed lymphocytes and after 2 h appeared to approach a maximum in macrophages, whereas the IPs level in lymphocytes appeared to be still rising after 2 h. In Mo and Ly the IPs level was increased within 10 min of incubation in the presence of either PGE2 or medium previously obtained from cells incubated with LPS. In addition, anisomycin (a protein synthesis inhibitor) and ketoprofen (a cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor) inhibited the LPS-stimulated increase of IPs accumulation in both cell types. These two observations suggest that the LPS stimulated increase in IPs in macrophages and lymphocytes is mediated by a protein intermediate and possibly a prostanoid. PMID- 2518379 TI - Listeria monocytogenes in foods. Isolation, characterization and control. AB - The intent for examining foods for Listeria monocytogenes, i.e. for surveying, for epidemiological purposes, or to inspect consignments of foods for microbiological safety, determines which analytical method is to be used. For instance resuscitation of debilitated cells may be required, and the degree of accuracy and precision necessary should be considered. Moreover, in the case of acceptance-or-rejection monitoring target values for 'absence' of the pathogen have been amply but not always effectively discussed. Recommendations are given for assessing adequate repair of sublethally damaged populations of L. monocytogenes and for performance testing of selective enrichment and isolation media to be used for the isolation and enumeration of L. monocytogenes. An approach to the empirical assessment of reference values for L. monocytogenes in foods processed for safety is also presented. This relies on a data base of results obtained when examining foods manufactured and distributed according to practices previously validated by longitudinally integrated ('holistic') quantitative risk analysis. PMID- 2518380 TI - Methods and media for the isolation and cultivation of Listeria monocytogenes from various foods. AB - Many methods and media currently exist for the detection and enumeration of Listeria monocytogenes. However, the suitability of any specific method or media is influenced by the purpose of the analysis and the type of food being analyzed. Food which are likely to contain high populations of contaminating microorganisms require highly selective media for enumeration. Moreover, media which contain indicator systems are also helpful in distinguishing L. monocytogenes colonies. In contrast, less selective media may be adequate for less contaminated foods. PMID- 2518381 TI - Analysis of Listeria monocytogenes by multilocus enzyme electrophoresis and application of the method to epidemiologic investigations. AB - We examined 310 strains of Listeria monocytogenes by multilocus enzyme electrophoresis. Fifty-six electrophoretic types (ETs) of the organism were defined: 10 for serovar 4b strains, 11 for serovar 1/2b strains, and 30 for serovar 1/2a strains. Strains of serovars 1/2c, 3a, and 3b, and a non-typable strain were distributed among the remaining five ETs. The mean genetic diversity of the species was 0.41. Principal coordinate analysis revealed a sharp division among ETs which divided the species into two major clusters. ETs containing serovar 1/2a strains were in one cluster while all ETs containing serovar 4b, 1/2b, and 3b strains were in the second cluster. Except for two ETs that contained strains from both serovar 1/2b and serovar 3b, no ET contained strains from more than one serovar. Multilocus enzyme electrophoresis facilitated the analysis of epidemiologic data. In three separate epidemiologic investigations electrophoretic typing confirmed a common source as a cause of an outbreak; in a fourth investigation a single common source as a cause of an outbreak was effectively ruled out. Electrophoretic typing was also useful in documenting potential links between Listeria contaminated foods and persons with listeriosis who consumed those foods. PMID- 2518382 TI - Phage typing of Listeria monocytogenes. PMID- 2518383 TI - Identification and enumeration of virulent Listeria strains. AB - Recent outbreaks and a continuous increase in cases of listeriosis underscore the need for rapid, sensitive and reliable techniques to detect Listeria. Of the species of Listeria, only L. monocytogenes has been found to be associated with human infections. One factor which definitely contributes to its pathogenicity is the presence of hemolysins, although L. ivanovii and L. seeligeri also elaborate hemolysins. Based upon cloned hemolysin genes, we have developed DNA probes specifically for detecting L. monocytogenes. The technique combines growth of bacterial colonies on selective agar plates and DNA hybridization of these colonies on a solid matrix. This technique permits identification and enumeration, and the entire procedure can be completed in 3-4 days. Our method was found to be suitable for identifying and enumerating this organism in various foods, the main vehicle of human infection. Advantages and disadvantages of this technique are discussed and compared with other existing techniques. PMID- 2518384 TI - Possibilities of differentiation of listerial hemolysins by synergistic hemolytic reactions (CAMP reactions). PMID- 2518385 TI - Thermal resistance of Listeria monocytogenes in foods. AB - Recent studies on the heat resistance of Listeria monocytogenes in dairy products, the discrepancies in results and some of the difficulties involved in comparing interlaboratory experiments are reviewed. In addition, some current work on the thermal resistance of the organism in meat products is discussed. PMID- 2518386 TI - Impedimetric determination of activity of disinfectants and detergents on Listeria: preliminary study. AB - The efficiency of several disinfectants or detergents against three strains of Listeria monocytogenes, one strain of Listeria innocua and two strains of Streptococcus group D was tested in water as well as in the presence of milk, whey and salt by an impedimetric method using a Bactometer M120. Certain synergistic effects between active agents and matrix could be observed. Differences in sensitivities were noticed amongst the tested strains. Products containing iodine, peroxide or quaternary ammonium as active agents were shown to be efficient, even at relatively low concentrations. PMID- 2518387 TI - Elevated levels of the alpha subunit of GTP-binding protein Go in cerebrospinal fluid of patients with neurological disorders. AB - By employing a highly sensitive immunoassay method, concentration of the alpha subunit of GTP-binding protein, Go (Go alpha), recently shown to be localized mainly in nervous tissues and neuroendocrine cells, was determined in cerebrospinal fluids (CSF) of 192 patients with various neurological disorders and 50 control subjects. The results were compared with CSF levels of neuron specific enolase (NSE) and S-100b protein (S-100b) in the same samples. Normal levels of Go alpha were 51.9 +/- 21.7 pg/ml. The levels of Go alpha, as well as NSE and S-100b, in CSF were enhanced in some patients with acute conditions, e.g., meningitis (48%), encephalitis (100%), and cerebral infarct (56%). In these disorders, cases with enhanced Go alpha levels were more frequent than those with enhanced NSE or S-100b. Three patients with encephalitis whose Go alpha levels were more than 1000 pg/ml all died; the remaining two patients with encephalitis and slightly elevated Go alpha levels had a good prognosis. Concentration of Go alpha in CSF correlated well with that of NSE but poorly with that of S-100b. However, cervical spondylosis and demyelinating diseases, CSF levels of Go alpha were generally lower than those of NSE or S-100b. These results suggest that Go alpha in CSF is a useful marker for monitoring patients with acute neuronal damage. Since these three proteins are distributed differently in the central nervous system, simultaneous determination of Go alpha, NSE, and S-100b levels in CSF might provide valuable information about the pathophysiology of neurological disorders. PMID- 2518388 TI - Severe complication of enteral feeding therapy of a child with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) PMID- 2518389 TI - The P300 event-related potential and regional cerebral blood flow in patients with Alzheimer's disease. AB - A number of studies have reported that an abnormal delay in the latency of the P300 event-related potential (ERP) is characteristic of the majority of patients with a dementing process. Another body of research suggests regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) is significantly reduced in Alzheimer's disease (AD). No previous study has compared the effectiveness of these 2 measures in identifying the same patients with AD. Furthermore, most of the studies on which the above findings are based examined patients in the moderate to severe stages of the disorder. In this study we examined P300 latency and rCBF in 10 patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease, and compared their responses with those of normal subjects of similar age. The P300 component was not evident in 2 of the patients: the remaining 8 had a latency within normal limits for their age. On the other hand, 8 of the patients had abnormally reduced rCBF. These results suggest rCBF measures may be useful for identifying AD in its early stages. PMID- 2518390 TI - Study of a monoclonal antibody specific to epithelial cells of mammalian thymuses. AB - Hybridomas between spleen cells from BALB/c mice and Sp2/O-Ag14 mycloma cell line are performed by PEG fusion. An in vitro booster is realized with human thymic reticulo-epithelial cell cultures as antigen. A monoclonal antibody (3H9) directed against the thymic epithelium and stratified epithelia of mammals has been obtained and characterized. PMID- 2518391 TI - [Significance of highly sensitive (immunoradiometry assay) TSH in the evaluation of hypothalamo-hypophyseal-thyroid axis function]. AB - A diagnostic value of immunoradiometric TSH assay in the evaluation of the function of hypothalamo-hypophyseal-thyroid axis was investigated in this paper. Normal values of basal TSH and TSH response during TRH test were determined by the use of ROC analysis. It was found out that there was a highly significant correlation between basal TSH and the responses during TRH test and that the diagnostic value of basal TSH in the evaluation of function of thyroid axis was almost identical to the diagnostic value of responses during TRH test. This finding pointed to the fact that basal TSH determination could replace the application of TRH test in diagnostic of thyroid axis disturbances. Comparing diagnostic value of basal TSH with other tests which served for the confirmation of thyroid axis disturbances, this test proved to be dominant, the most specific and the most sensitive in respect to other applied tests and could be regarded as the first step in diagnostic scheme of thyroid disturbances. PMID- 2518393 TI - Non-surgical treatment in severely head-injured patients with rised intracranial pressure. PMID- 2518392 TI - [The role of expression of histocompatibility antigens class II (HLA-D) and interleukin-2 receptor in the process of rejection of transplanted organs. I]. PMID- 2518394 TI - Effect of furosemide, bumetanide and mannitol on intracranial pressure in experimental brain edema of the rat. AB - Loop diuretics interfere with NaCl-KCl cotransport, which operates not only in the kidney but as well in a variety of nonepithelial cells including neuronal and glial cells. In these cells loop diuretics are able to reduce cellular volume. The present study has been performed to establish, whether furosemide or bumetanide directly modify intracranial pressure in cytotoxic brain edema. To this end, water intoxication was induced in animals acutely nephrectomized, to exclude any consequences of renal effects. Neither furosemide nor bumetanide proved effective in reducing intracranial pressure. In contrast, infusion of hypertonic mannitol solution leads to a marked, rapid reduction of intracranial pressure. The observations rule out a direct action of loop diuretics on intracranial cells to reduce intracranial pressure in water intoxicated animals. PMID- 2518395 TI - Effect of PaCO2 and haemoglobin concentration on day to day variation of CBF in preterm neonates. AB - The CBF was measured on the first three days of life in 22 mechanically ventilated, preterm neonates (mean gestational age 29.5 weeks) with simultaneous recordings of arterial carbon dioxide tension (PaCO2), arterial oxygen tension (PaO2), haemoglobin concentration (Hgb), haemoglobin oxygen saturation and mean arterial blood pressure (MABP). CBF infinity tended to increase slightly with age. The intra-individual variation of CBF infinity was positively related to changes in PaCO2 (p = 0.0004) and inversely related to changes in Hgb (p = 0.029). Neither PaO2 nor MABP achieved a significant relation to changes in CBF infinity. Thus, the mean CBF infinity -CO2 reactivity was calculated to 22.1% per kPa whereas CBF infinity increased by a mean of 11.9% per mM decrease of Hgb thereby providing a constant oxygen delivery to the brain. It is concluded that PaCO2 and Hgb have the expected effect on CBF infinity in preterm neonates even during respiratory distress shortly after birth. PMID- 2518396 TI - Host response to Pseudomonas aeruginosa. AB - Patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) do not reveal a primary immune defect and respond with high numbers of functional polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) and specific antibodies to lung infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The mucoid character of P. aeruginosa, an altered epithelial cell surface, and high concentrations of PMN-derived lysosomal enzymes contribute to impaired bacterial lung clearance and result in chronic infection. Released PMN-elastase inactivates exotoxin A, the major toxin of P. aeruginosa, thus reducing its virulence. The imbalance between PMN-proteinases and their inhibitors leads to lung tissue damage, impaired opsonophagocytosis, and T-cell and B-cell imbalance. New therapeutical concepts in CF therefore combine anti-inflammatory drugs with effective antibiotics. PMID- 2518397 TI - The immunobiology of follicle-stimulating hormone and inhibin: prospects for a contraceptive vaccine. PMID- 2518398 TI - [Neurological manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus. Study of 53 cases]. AB - The Authors submitted 53 randomly selected patients affected by systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) to neurologic evaluation to investigate the prevalence of neurologic manifestations, establish relationships to clinical and epidemiological findings and antinuclear antibodies and/or lupus anticoagulant (LAC), as well as to assess the usefulness of electroencephalogram (EEG), saccadic eye movements (SEM) analysis, brain computerized tomography (CT). Twenty two patients (41.5%) had nervous system involvement on anamnestic and/or clinical examination: there were seizures in 5 patients, headache in 3, involuntary movements in 3, psychosis in 2 and cerebrovascular disorders in 9. The patients were subdivided into 2 groups, with neuro-SLE and without neuro-SLE, according to clinical and/or anamnestic evidence of nervous system involvement. There were no differences between the two groups of patients regarding disease duration, disease activity, presence of antinuclear antibodies and/or LAC. EEG and/or SEM and/or brain CT abnormalities were found in 38 cases, 18 of which had no clinical evidence of neuro-SLE. Instrumental evaluation can thus document subtle nervous dysfunction and offers the possibility of classification into: a) non-neuro-SLE; b) subclinical neuro-SLE; c) overt neuro-SLE. PMID- 2518400 TI - [Evolution of suture techniques and materials in digestive surgery]. PMID- 2518399 TI - The CD4 cell dependency of SJL/J B-cell lymphomas as a target for cyclophosphamide therapy. AB - SJL/J B-cell lymphomas induce proliferation of syngeneic CD4 cells, on which the tumors are dependent for growth. We sought to determine whether cyclophosphamide (CY) treatment of tumor-bearing mice would be successful through effects on tumor cells, CD4 cells, or both. The markedly increased survival of treated mice derived predominantly from reduced proliferation of CD4 cells in response to tumor. Reduced proliferation of CD4 cells created a microenvironment that was not conducive to tumor growth, as evidenced by the failure of a subsequent tumor cell challenge to treated mice to significantly increase the rate of the mice. We concluded that CY affected the tumor-stimulated environment of SJL/J mice by killing CD4 cells that had been activated by a pre-existing tumor stimulus and by promoting the appearance of a population of CD8 cells that suppressed the ability of residual or recovering CD4 cells to proliferate in response to tumor. The CD8 population from treated mice was specific, based on the ability to suppress a tumor-stimulated mixed lymphocyte response (MLR) and the related autologous MLR and an inability to suppress an allogeneic- or Con A-induced response. Since CD8 cells from CY treated mice had no demonstrable antitumor activity, the most likely suppressor targets were responder CD4 cells in the tumor-stimulated MLR. The results emphasize that the design of a treatment protocol can take advantage of the immunodependency of a tumor. PMID- 2518401 TI - [Primary retroperitoneal tumors]. AB - The Authors report 7 cases of primary retroperitoneal tumors observed in a five year period. On the basis of the literature data, they examine the diagnostic, therapeutic and prognostic features, emphasizing the need for a surgical treatment supported, only when useful, by radio- and chemotherapy. The importance of an early diagnosis, thanks to modern technologic progress, is also stressed, echography in particular. PMID- 2518402 TI - [Varicose veins of the lower limbs caused by incompetence of the saphenous femoral ostium: standard or complete stripping?]. AB - The Authors report their experience of 256 stripping operations performed during the last 3 years for varicose veins of the lower extremities. Preoperative Doppler examination was used to detect reverse flow in the saphenous veins. Removal of the entire saphenous trunk was performed in 158 limbs with segmental or total reverse flow; in the remaining 98 cases with reflux only in the proximal tract of the saphenous vein a selective stripping operation and, five weeks later, phlebectomy of remaining varicosities were performed. The results were assessed by follow-up examination from 6 months to 3 years. When there is a specified indication, the selective stripping operation appears to be an excellent and aesthetic solution with a very low incidence of saphenous nerve's injuries. Useful advice to obtain the best results with the traditional stripping operation are also pointed out. PMID- 2518403 TI - [Primary lymphoma of the thyroid gland. Review of the literature and presentation of a clinical case]. AB - Primary malignant lymphoma of the thyroid is a very uncommon disease and represents approximately 5% of all thyroid malignant neoplasms. The Authors report a case whose clinical and histopathological features are discussed and compared with those of previously published series. Primary malignant lymphomas raise a number of issues: abrupt onset, age and sex patterns, histological typing (virtually 100% of cases are non-Hodgkin lymphomas), differential diagnosis with either Hashimoto's chronic thyroiditis (often associated with thyroid primary lymphomas) or genuine anaplastic carcinoma of the thyroid. Routine histological study can be complemented by immunohistochemistry. The treatment of choose is total thyroidectomy plus radiotherapy in cases where radical surgery is possible, or radiotherapy alone which usually carries good results. PMID- 2518404 TI - [Acute pancreatitis in biliary microlithiasis: a study of the biliary sediment]. AB - The Authors report the results of a clinical trial based on the study of the biliary sediment in cases of acute pancreatitis considered as idiopathic that, on the contrary, resulted to be correlated to a condition of biliary microlithiasis. Four cases of biliary acute pancreatitis out of 94 are reported (1979-1988) in which the diagnosis of biliary microlithiasis was possible only through the microscopic analysis of the bile, that documented a significant presence of cholesterol and/or bilirubinate crystals. It allowed a proper therapeutic approach. PMID- 2518406 TI - [Angiomyolipoma of the kidney: a case of spontaneous rupture]. AB - After reporting the general features of renal angiomyolipoma (AML), either isolated or associated to other conditions (Bourneville sclerosis, Wunderlich's syndrome), the Authors discuss a case complicated by perirenal spontaneous hematoma, undergone emergency operation (simple nephrectomy). At a 3 year follow up the patient is in good general and local conditions (negative TC, normal renal function, preexistent hypertension disappeared). Literature is reviewed and some considerations about diagnosis and surgical tactics are reported. PMID- 2518405 TI - [Lipoma of the colon: apropos of 2 cases]. AB - The lipoma of the colon is a rare benign tumour. The Authors describe two cases of colonic lipoma and stress diagnostic and therapeutic problems related to this condition. They also emphasize the importance of double contrast enema and colonoscopy associated to bioptic examination. The indication to lipomas removal is based on clinical remarks and differential diagnosis with adenomatous polyps. The modality of removal, where feasible for local conditions, should be preferably endoscopic. PMID- 2518407 TI - [Recurrence of inguinal and crural hernias]. AB - The main problem in inguinal and femoral hernia repair is the risk of recurrence. In this study the Authors analyze possible causes of recurrence on the basis of their own experience (123 cases of recurrences) and literature review. They classify factors influencing recurrence in: preoperative, depending on patient's features, intraoperative, the most important ones, depending on the surgical technics used and postoperative, essentially due to complications. PMID- 2518408 TI - [Staging of lung cancer by computerized tomography: evaluation based on surgical experience]. AB - One hundred seventy patients with M0 bronchogenic carcinoma were preoperatively evaluated by CT staging whose results were correlated with surgical findings. A number of over and understaging were observed in assessing mediastinal nodes involvement, chest wall invasion, mediastinal pleura and vessels invasion as well as pulmonary vessels involvement. In conclusion, the Authors believe that no patient surgical indication should be excluded on the basis of CT evidence of intrathoracic invasion, in the light of the demonstrated potential for false positive diagnoses. PMID- 2518409 TI - [Ambulatory surgical therapy in varices of the lower limbs. Notes on surgical anatomy and surgical technique based on personal case series]. AB - The Authors report their experience of 2,806 operations for varicose veins of the lower extremities in the last 13 years and demonstrate the importance of a few operation times, such as groin incision, ligature of the medial accessory saphena and technique of multiple phlebectomies at thigh and leg level. PMID- 2518410 TI - [Anorectal varices: the profile of a little recognized pathology]. PMID- 2518411 TI - [Iatrogenic biliary lithogenesis in surgery]. AB - Iatrogenic biliary lithogenesis has been often observed in surgery. The authors, on the basis of the personal experience and literature, have tried to point out its etiologic factors and give a common interpretation to its different clinical manifestations observed in surgery. This study reports 19 patients who underwent total gastrectomy with truncal vagotomy and postoperative TPN and subsequently serial ultrasonographic scans to determine content and volume of the gallbladder. In 5 patients it was possible to take out a bile sample daily, using a naso duodenal tube, for chemical analysis. In 10 out of 19 patients postoperative ultrasonography revealed the fast appearance of biliary sludge; 6 of the latter 10 developed microlithiasis. In all cases examined ultrasounds revealed a defect of the contractility of the gallbladder and the microscopic analysis of bile content showed pigment granules. The authors underline how different etiologic factors are involved in different clinical models. They conclude that gallstones observed in their experience are mostly pigmentary and are quickly formed owing to the interaction of many etiological factors. Finally prophylactic measures are discussed. PMID- 2518412 TI - Carcinoma of the gastric stump following partial gastrectomy (Billroth II operation) for benign gastroduodenal lesions. Preliminary results. AB - A series of 110 patients out of 2,200, who had undergone Billroth II partial gastrectomy for benign lesions, between 1945 and 1980, was reviewed in order to perform clinical, biochemical and endoscopical examinations. In this group 9 patients (8.18%) showed gastric stump cancer and in 4 (3.63%) esophageal cancer was detected. The average time interval between previous operation and carcinoma diagnosis was of 28 years and 6 months. Eight patients out of 9 were males aging from 47 to 82, while the only woman was 65 (overall average: 63). The stump cancer presents at the same age and gives the same symptoms as primitive gastric carcinoma, but with worse results and prognosis. After having underlined some pathogenetic problems, the Authors show personal results and confirm the utility of an accurate endoscopical and clinical follow up especially for patients operated on since more than twenty years. PMID- 2518414 TI - [Cholelithiasis in advanced age]. AB - Fifty seven patients over 65 affected with cholelithiasis underwent surgical procedures at II Patologia Chirurgica-University of Bari-Italy, from July 1987 to December 1988. Different risk factors were considered. The results, which reported a low incidence of morbidity and mortality, suggest the importance to adopt early surgery. Though 73.2% of patients had associated pathologies and 28.6% had two or more risk factors, only 5.3% of them had complications not strictly related to surgery. PMID- 2518413 TI - [Low-malignancy duodenal leiomyosarcoma]. AB - The authors report a case of duodenal leiomyosarcoma presenting a low degree of histological malignancy. The main anatomoclinical features of the neoplasm are summarized. The authors conclude indicating not aggressive surgical therapy as adequate in such cases. However, a prolonged post-operative follow-up is always necessary, in order to detect recurrences as early as possible. PMID- 2518415 TI - [Surgical treatment of pancreatic pseudocyst]. AB - The review of diagnosis and treatment of 18 pancreatic pseudocysts has led to some conclusions about controversial aspects of the surgical management. The accuracy of imaging techniques in the early detection of the pseudocyst is high and plays a major role in the demonstration of its spontaneous resolution and evolution. The optimal surgical treatment of uncomplicated pseudocysts is the internal drainage, most rarely their resection. The incidence of septic complications was 22%: in this case the pseudocysts are usually best managed by external drainage. PMID- 2518416 TI - [Gynecomastia: our experience in surgical treatment]. AB - A group of 78 patients with gynecomastia was observed between 1974-1987. Idiopathic gynecomastia was referred in 33 cases, cirrhosis in 31 cases, prostatic hypertrophy in 2 cases, while in 12 cases gynecomastia was induced by drugs. All patients with idiopathic form and 11 patients with secondary form were surgically treated by mastectomy (20 bilaterally and 24 unilaterally). The authors emphasize that, in this pathology, is much more important restoring the masculine feature of thorax without esthetic damage than removing the hypertrophic gland. PMID- 2518417 TI - [Spinal hydatidosis: state of current knowledge on its lesions and presentation of an unusual clinical case]. AB - Vertebral hydatidosis is a rare localization of echinococcosis. In fact, its incidence is less than 1% of the cases in the literature. The authors report a personal observation and describe main features of the disease. PMID- 2518418 TI - [Total pericystectomy in the treatment of hepatic echinococcosis]. AB - Fourteen patients, affected with hepatic echinococcosis, who underwent total pericystectomy at II Patologia Chirurgica, University of Bari-Italy, were retrospectively evaluated. The period considered was July 1987-December 1988. Immediate (low morbidity and no mortality) and late (no recurrences) results showed that total pericystectomy is the treatment of choice in hepatic hydatidosis. PMID- 2518419 TI - [Diagnosis and treatment of hepatic echinococcosis with fistulas of the major bile ducts]. AB - The authors report their experience of secondary major biliary fistula (MBF) for hepatic echinococcosis. The analysis of the results of the surgical treatments showed that "conservative" operations have major mortality than "radical" operations. The importance of an exact preoperative diagnosis of presence, side and size of MBF, in order to a correct choice of the most suitable operations, is underlined. Endoscopic retrograde cholangio-pancreatography seems to be a reliable diagnostical technique, also if compared with traditional methods (U.S., C.T.). PMID- 2518420 TI - [A rare indication for duodeno-cephalopancreatectomy: Peutz-Jeghers polyposis]. PMID- 2518421 TI - [A case of cryptogenic bleeding: degenerative cystic angiodysplasia of the right colon]. AB - The authors report a case of gastro-intestinal bleeding due to arteriovenous malformation of the right colon: the angiodysplasia (AVMs-Moore's type 1). The investigations usually adopted in case of G.I. bleeding (x-Ray-examinations and endoscopy) are often unable to define the diagnosis. In this report the diagnostic importance of selective angiography in patients with lower intestinal blood loss is emphasized. PMID- 2518423 TI - [Use of ultrasound-guided needle aspiration in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cysts]. AB - The authors evaluated the advantages obtained utilizing FNAB with ultrasound in the needle aspiration of breast cysts. Echography can guide the aspiration up to its end in an effective and localized way. Cytologic examination of the cystic fluid confirmed the benign nature of the cyst. The association of needle aspiration and guided echography was related to a low number of relapses (19.8%). Among these relapses some risk factors have been found as well as a correlation between cystic fluid cytologic examination and relapses incidence has been determined. PMID- 2518422 TI - [Prosthetic salvage operation in patients on hemodialysis]. AB - The use of PTFE, vascular prosthesis (Gore-Tex), in the vascular access for hemodialysis, is a very reliable and exploited method. Thrombosis is the most frequent complication. The prosthetic "salvage operation" allows an immediate functional recovery. The authors examine their series from 1986 on, analyzing the surgical technics employed and the results obtained. PMID- 2518424 TI - [Surgical anatomy of the rectum: technical notes]. AB - To have a good knowledge of pelvic and rectal areas is very important to avoid major complications of the rectal surgery. Important technical points are: posterior dissection in the pre-sacral space: this space can be easily demonstrated performing the separation immediately behind the superior rectal artery and then cutting the recto-sacral fascia. This is the correct procedure to avoid dangerous bleedings too; total dissection of the mesorectum for neoplastic disease; it is possible to apply this technique for benign diseases too with a minimal bleeding and without an increase of lesions of the nervous plexes; lateral dissection, that follows the posterior dissection, is performed very close to the pelvic wall for neoplastic diseases and very close to the rectum for benign diseases; anterior dissection, that is performed before the Denonvillier's fascia for neoplastic diseases and behind it for benign diseases. PMID- 2518425 TI - [Early cancer of the esophagus: results in 61 operated cases]. AB - From 1980 to 1987, 1338 patients with esophageal cancer were observed and 703 underwent esophagectomy. Pathologic exam of the operative specimen showed 61 early cancers of the esophagus: 10 mucosal and 51 submucosal. Hospital mortality in patients operated on (2 cases) for early esophageal cancer was 3.3% (2 cases). The 5-year survival rate in the cases of mucosal and submucosal tumors was 100% and 33%, respectively. The location of neoplastic recurrence was detected in 9 patients, all of whom had a submucosal tumor. The recurrence was local-regional in 4 cases, and remote in 5. The authors think that submucosal cancers of the esophagus may need a multimodality therapeutic approach to improve prognosis and prevent recurrence. Patients who are not surgical candidates and in whom the diagnosis of early cancer is likely on the basis of clinical staging may undergo endoscopic laser therapy. PMID- 2518426 TI - [Liver abscess: clinical cases and review of the literature]. AB - Personal experience with liver abscess is presented. After a review of the epidemiologic and aetiologic factors most commonly influencing hepatic abscesses formation, the Authors discuss their clinical and diagnostic aspects. Furthermore various surgical options are examined for the proper treatment of these conditions. PMID- 2518427 TI - [Spontaneous rupture of the spleen, site of metastatic carcinoma: presentation of a clinical case]. PMID- 2518428 TI - [Nodular hyperthyroidism: surgical experience and hypothesis of carcinogenic correlations]. AB - In a retrospective study 109 patients operated for nodular toxic goiter from 1984 to may 1988 are examined. Clinical feature, diagnosis and surgical approach are analyzed; the follow-up of the patients is reported as well. Some results are really interesting: 1) the incidence of hyperthyroidism in a nodular goiter (toxic multinodular goiter, solitary or multiple Plummer's nodes) is higher in the females; 2) most of the patients with solitary or multiple nodes are middle young-aged; 3) prevalence of autonomous toxic adenomas; 4) relapses are higher (76%) in young patients with thyroid nodes operated with lobectomy and isthmectomy in pre-toxic stage (multifocality of the disease). Basedowified goiter, on the contrary, is present in old females with a long history of goiter. In these cases, subtotal thyroidectomy is often curative. The association with cancer is a fearful event to remember. PMID- 2518430 TI - [Postoperative biliary calculosis: our experience with therapeutic strategy]. AB - The Authors report their experience in the treatment of 92 cases of post-surgical biliary tract stones: 17 early cases (18.5%) were treated by percutaneous nonsurgical extraction (10 cases) or by operative procedures (7 cases); 75 late cases (81.5%) were surgically treated. The Authors summarize the results of the treatment, discussing advantages and disadvantages of the various techniques. PMID- 2518429 TI - [Use of fibrin tissue adhesive (Tissucol) in Mallory-Weiss syndrome]. AB - The Authors report a case of Mallory-Weiss syndrome satisfactorily treated with Tissucol by endoscopy. Good results are underlined. PMID- 2518432 TI - [Validity and limitations of the CEA test in the treatment of colorectal carcinoma]. AB - CEA appears to be a good marker in the follow up of patients operated for colorectal cancer. The Authors analyse, on the base of literature data, the results of CEA test in their experience of colorectal cancers operated from 1978 to 1987. They confirm the importance of CEA as recurrence marker, however the test, by itself, is not sufficient to always identify a new onset of the disease. PMID- 2518431 TI - [Use of imipenem-cilastatin in antibiotic therapy and prevention in general surgery. One year of clinical experience]. AB - The authors report one year of clinical experience with imipenem-cilastatin, first antibiotic of thienamycin class, in the therapy and prophylaxis of postoperative infectious diseases. One hundred thirty four patients were treated with antibiotic therapy and 10 days after in 98.5% of cases a clinical remission of the disease was obtained; only in 2 patients the effect wasn't evaluable because they died for not drug-related causes. The prophylactic use of this antibiotic was limited to 34 patients with high risk of infectious diseases; only 3 cases (8.8%) showed bacterial contamination and one of them had clinical signs of disease which indicated the absolute need for antibiotic therapy. The Authors also emphasize the excellent results, the tolerability of the drug and the absence of side-effects. PMID- 2518433 TI - [Conservative surgical treatment of acute hemorrhagic necrotizing pancreatitis]. AB - The Authors though in theirs' opinion medical treatment is the primary therapeutical approach to Acute Necrotizing Haemorrhagic Pancreatitis (A.N.H.P.), state that the surgical treatment is indicated as soon as the necrotizing haemorrhagic evolution of the disease is strongly suspected. It should be conservative in type acting on the evolution of the disease and saving the anatomic integrity of the pancreas. The surgical technique adopted is described which consists in removing cellular debris as well as highly toxic necrotic pancreatic apparatus and it is completed by the endo-retroperitoneal perfusion for a continuous washing of the peritoneal cavity. In conclusion, they report their personal experience with 16 patients affected with A.N.H.P. PMID- 2518435 TI - [The role of the university professor in contemporary society]. PMID- 2518434 TI - [Necessary enlarged exeresis in surgery of gastric cancer]. PMID- 2518436 TI - [Transplantation of the pancreas: surgical aspects]. AB - Based on their personal as well as international experiences, the authors describe different surgical techniques employed in pancreatic allograft related to different complications rate and patient and graft outcome. In fact, the surgical technique represents an only partially solved problem, because of the high percentage of complications dealing with the different approaches. Even though several procedures concerning either the site of implantation either the treatment of the exocrine function have been so far used, the results up to now obtained are the main limiting factor for a large clinical application of pancreatic transplantation. PMID- 2518437 TI - [Digestive physiopathology of the pancreatectomized patient. Comparison of the results of total pancreatectomy and pancreaticoduodenectomy with preservation of the pylorus]. AB - The authors analyze their experience with pancreatectomy, pointing out the digestive pathophysiologic sequelae of the operated patients. A follow-up protocol based on upper digestive endoscopy, laboratory tests, scintigraphic and pH-metric tests compares the results achieved after total pancreatectomy with the results of pancreaticoduodenectomy. Total pancreatectomy is complicated by peptic ulcer, stump gastritis and gastroenteric dyskinesia. The preservation of the pylorus and the separation of the gastric anastomosis from the biliary one avoid the pathologic biliary reflux and minimize the functional and organic sequelae of the operation. PMID- 2518438 TI - [A personal variant of the Vayre and Petit Pazos technique in the surgical repair of inguinal hernia]. AB - The authors describe a personal modification of Vayre and Petit Pazo's surgical technique for the cure of the inguinal hernia, that is a different application of the mersilene mesh. Out of 1,200 operations performed for the inguinal hernia repair from 1979 throughout 1988, the technique was used in 50 cases with good results and without recurrences at a follow up ranging from six months to seven years. PMID- 2518439 TI - [Chyloperitoneum. Presentation of 2 cases]. AB - The authors report two cases of chylous ascites recently observed. After a wide review of the literature, they point out the rarity of this disease and its particular therapeutic aspects. PMID- 2518440 TI - [Emergency surgery in icterus]. AB - Obstructive jaundice may be, still today, a surgical emergency. After the analysis of the serious syndrome following a persistent cholestasis, the authors discuss new technological diagnostic procedures and indications, pros and cons of the use of P.T.D. (Percutaneous Transhepatic Drainage). Finally, they underline emergency cases and proper surgical management, on the basis of their personal experience, as well. PMID- 2518441 TI - [Surgical treatment of unrepairable vesicovaginal fistulas]. AB - The authors discuss different types of urinary diversion as the therapy of unrepairable vesico-vaginal fistulas. They also describe the therapy performed in their experience and underline that, at the moment, rectal bladder is to be considered the best solution. PMID- 2518442 TI - [A rare occurrence of adrenal ectopy im the spermatic cord. A short clinical note]. AB - The authors describe a rare case of adrenal ectopy in the spermatic cord of a child, casually discovered during surgery of inguinal hernia. The adrenal cortex was totally represented. PMID- 2518443 TI - [Traumatic diaphragmatic hernia]. AB - The authors analyse a series of 10 patients urgently treated for traumatic disruption of the diaphragm. Main aetiopathogenetic, pathophysiological, diagnostic and surgical aspects of the condition are discussed. PMID- 2518444 TI - [Infections caused by central venous catheter used in surgery]. AB - The central venous catheters, now usually adopted in surgical patients, present some potential septic risks, and the longer the catheter is in place, the more dangerous it is. The authors report their experience on 130 central venous catheters, out of which 96 were used for TPN administration and 34 for monitoring purposes. The catheters were introduced through subclavian, internal jugular or basilic veins, in accordance with a standardized technique. The observed infection percentage, caused by the catheters, was 7.7%; the infection was easily controlled by the catheter removal and a proper antibiotic therapy. The only death, surely due to sepsis, was caused by Candida fungus in an immunosuppressed female patient. Therefore the authors stress the importance to prevent septic complications in order to avoid fatal ones. PMID- 2518445 TI - [Unusual anatomo-clinical features of thyroid metastasis]. AB - The authors report a case of metastatic tumor from clear cell carcinoma in the thyroid gland occurred in a patient who had his primary tumor previously treated with right nephrectomy. The time interval before the appearance of the metastasis was 6 years. The diagnosis was made preoperatively because of the peculiar biological behavior of the primary tumor. In fact, the metastasis and the primary presented with neoplastic invasion of the middle thyroid vein and the renal vein respectively. The ultrasound examination revealed the vein thrombus arising from the thyroid and reaching the internal jugular vein through the middle thyroid vein. Subsequent fine needle aspiration biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of metastasis from clear cell renal carcinoma. The low grade of malignancy of the primary from the clinical point of view and the absence of other metastatic locations influenced the therapeutic approach. PMID- 2518446 TI - [Our ultrasonic experience in the diagnosis of traumatic lesions of the liver and spleen]. AB - The authors on the basis of their series evaluate the accuracy of ultrasonography (US) in the diagnosis of intraperitoneal as well as hepatic and splenic intraparenchymal blood collections. Because of its reliability, lack of contraindications, feasibility at the patient's bed, easy remaking, US examination is the first choice approach to the patient with blunt abdominal trauma. PMID- 2518447 TI - [Use of mechanical staplers in colostomy]. AB - The authors used the technique of Chung, slightly modified, to perform the end colostomy in five patients who underwent abdomino-perineal resection according to Miles for rectal carcinoma. The technique proved to be easy and quick. The results have been satisfactory, without complications such as infections, necrosis, stenosis, retraction or paracolostomy hernias. PMID- 2518448 TI - [Reconstruction of the wall in direct inguinal hernia: proposal of a technical variant]. AB - The best method for inguinal hernia repair has not yet been established in the literature. Good results have been reported with Shouldice repair. This method includes both the posterior and the anterior layers of inguinal wall. The British method known as "nylon darn" has shown to be effective in preservation of deep groin anatomy. The author suggests the association of both methods to achieve the strength of the wall and the preservation of the groin anatomy. PMID- 2518449 TI - Plasma factors influencing PGI2-like activity in patients with IgA nephropathy and Henoch-Schonlein purpura. AB - Plasma factors influencing vascular PGI2-like activity (PSA) were studied in 45 patients with IgA nephropathy, 18 with Henoch-Schonlein purpura, including 8 children with nephrotic syndrome, and 41 controls. The results were compared with the levels of plasma high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and fatty acid components of plasma phospholipids. The plasma of 38 of 45 patients with IgA nephropathy and 14 with Henoch-Schonlein purpura showed a diminished ability or no ability to support PSA. Twenty-three patients with IgA nephropathy and 10 with Henoch-Schonlein purpura exhibited an inhibitory activity against PGI2 production. The plasma HDL level was lower, while the LDL level and the LDL/HDL ratio were significantly higher in IgA nephropathy and Henoch Schonlein purpura cases than in the controls. A high LDL/HDL ratio was associated with a low plasma PSA. The levels of arachidonic acid and its precursor were not lower in the plasma of patients than in the controls. The decreased PGI2 synthesis may play an important role in the pathogenesis of IgA nephropathy and Henoch-Schonlein purpura, but it can not be explained by reduced PG precursors. LDL may have an inhibitory, and HDL a protective effect on PGI2 synthesis. PMID- 2518450 TI - Renal function in Sudanese school children with Schistosoma mansoni infection. AB - Renal function was investigated in 218 school children with Schistosoma mansoni infection in the Providence of Gezira in central Sudan and in 65 Sudanese and 65 German age-matched controls. Serum creatinine was normal in all children. A pathological urinary protein-creatinine ratio was found in 3% of S. mansoni infected children and in 5% of Sudanese controls but in none of the European children. Characterization of pathological proteinuria using albumin nephelometry, alpha-1 microglobulin immunodiffusion and SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in these children showed glomerular, tubular or mixed glomerulotubular patterns. One, 4 and 6 months following treatment of schistosomiasis with praziquantel, stools were re-examined; 57% of patients were cured, 16% were found to be reinfected and 27% had persistent egg excretion. Six months after therapy, pathological urinary protein-creatinine ratios were encountered in 3% of S. mansoni patients and in none of the 34 reinvestigated controls. Proteinuria was similar in patients with persistent S. mansoni egg excretion and in children cured of schistosomiasis infection. It is concluded that there was no evidence for S. mansoni associated glomerulonephritis in this group of Sudanese children. The high rate of pathological proteinuria in S. mansoni-infected and non-infected Sudanese children may be due to other causes. PMID- 2518451 TI - Expression of mouse histone H1(0) promoter sequences following microinjection into Xenopus oocytes and developing embryos. AB - Evidence from expression studies using transfected F9 teratocarcinoma stem cells indicates that the synthesis of the H1(0) histone is turned on very soon after the cells have been treated with retinoic acid, which causes them to differentiate into murine parietal endoderm. This increase in H1(0) at the time of commitment would allow a reorganization of the chromatin with a reprogramming of the gene activity of undifferentiated F9 cells to the differentiated state. The particular interest of the further development of this differentiation model is to answer the question whether this specific stimulation of expression can be induced only in homologous differentiation systems, or whether the identified H1(0) promoter sequences can also be specifically stimulated by heterologous factors. We therefore injected the mammalian H1(0) promoter sequences into Xenopus oocytes and fertilized eggs. The results of oocyte injection experiments indicate that H1(0) promoter sequence elements similar to those used in transfected F9 cells are specifically expressed in the oocyte. For analysis of H1(0) expression in Xenopus embryos we used promoter constructs ligated to beta galactosidase sequences for microinjection. This procedure allows a particularly rapid and complete detection of expressed promoter clones within the differentiated tissues of the early Xenopus embryo. PMID- 2518452 TI - The contents of proteins, carbohydrates, lipids and DNA during the embryogenesis of Drosophila. AB - The concentration of proteins, sugars, lipids and DNA has been determined during the embryogenesis of Drosophila. The protein content decreases after fertilization, being in the late embryo only 60% the value of the oocyte. The total sugar increases about 2.5-fold, from 3.5 h on until the end of embryogenesis. The lipids increase with a sharp peak at about 4 h and decrease during the rest of embryogenesis. DNA increases exponentially from the beginning of embryogenesis. PMID- 2518454 TI - [Macular, lattice and granular dystrophy of the cornea: ultra-histochemistry and ultrastructure study]. AB - Keratoplasty specimens from 19 patients with macular corneal dystrophy (MCD), 11 patients with lattice corneal dystrophy (LCD) and 2 patients with granular corneal dystrophy (GCD) were examined by combinations of histochemistry, electron microscopy and electron--histochemistry. Electron histochemistry disclosed that the deposits of MCD have sulfate chondroitin and another hyaluronidase--resistant glycoaminoglycan and that the deposits of LCD have a little sulfate chondroitin. The authors suggest: (1) the possible pathologic mechanism of MCD is that the keratocytes and endothelial cells synthesize abnormal fibrillogranular material which consists of glycoaminoglycan, glycoprotein and lipid; (2) LCD is a primary localized corneal amyloidosis in which the amyloid deposits may result from corneal epithelial cells and keratocytes with a little sulfate chondroitin; (3) the deposits synthesized by corneal epithelial cells and keratocytes in GCD may result from a genetic defect in processing or synthesizing proteins. PMID- 2518453 TI - Phagocytic activity of leukocytes induced by different dialyzer membranes. PMID- 2518455 TI - [Prevention of immunization of women with Rh group antigens in the years 1970 1988 at the Institute of Gynecology and Obstetrics Medical Academy in Poznan]. AB - The number of serological incompatibility cases in relation to the number of labours was analysed for the years 1970-1988 in the Perinatology Department, Institute of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Medical Academy in Poznan, that is in the period when prevention of serological Rh incompatibility conflicts had been introduced and applied. The prevention methods applied in pregnant women and in women in labour made possible a reduction of Rh immunization of pregnant women by about 70%. On the basis of the results and clinical analysis it was found that a further rise of the effectiveness of prophylactic measures could be achieved by a wider use of immunoprophylaxis after artificial abortions and spontaneous abortions, by the use of adequate doses of anti-Rh-D IgG after labour, and introduction of immunoprophylactis methods already in a proper period of pregnancy. PMID- 2518456 TI - The use of helium-oxygen mixtures in the support of patients with status asthmaticus and respiratory acidosis. AB - Ten patients with status asthmaticus and respiratory or combined respiratory and metabolic acidosis were treated with a mixture of helium-oxygen (He-O2) in addition to the usual bronchodilator therapy and corticosteroids. A significant reversal of the acidosis was noted within the first 20 minutes, and no patient required subsequent intubation. The He-O2 mixture was started after the aerosolized and subcutaneous bronchodilators, but before intravenous corticosteroids and aminophylline had reached their peak effects. There were no untoward reactions and most of the patients sensed an immediate reduction in their dyspnea with the onset of He-O2 therapy. We conclude that He-O2 may be a useful adjunct to the usual medications employed in the treatment of status asthmaticus and may allow some patients to avoid intubation and mechanical ventilation. PMID- 2518457 TI - Therapeutic use of bronchoalveolar lavage in a very difficult asthmatic: a case report. AB - A patient with severe chronic asthma, who had become refractory to conventional antiasthma drugs, is described. As a last resort, therapeutic bronchoalveolar lavage was performed using beta-stimulant, steroid, and mucolytic solutions. The patient, who had had asthmatic attacks almost every day prior to lavage, showed a dramatic and sustained improvement in his condition. It is suggested that therapeutic bronchoalveolar lavage may be useful in chronic asthmatics who have become refractory to conventional treatment because of mucus plugging of their bronchi. PMID- 2518458 TI - [Rhythmic contraction of smooth muscle in the pulmonary veins of dogs and monkeys]. PMID- 2518459 TI - [Effects of vasoactive substances on vascular smooth muscle of various body parts in monkeys]. PMID- 2518460 TI - [Immunohistochemical study of Hirschsprung's disease and hypoganglionosis]. PMID- 2518461 TI - [Reading disorders in children with partial epilepsy]. AB - This study represents a neuropsychological evaluation of reading ability in children with partial epilepsy (PE), aged 7-14 years, of normal intelligence, without neurological deficits and physical handicaps, appropriate environment stimulation and learning opportunities. A control group consisted of 202 healthy school children. Reading disabilities were significantly more frequent in children with partial epilepsy, especially in patients with PE with complex symptomatology. The children from the control group had better results of the tests of both verbal and performance intelligence, but children with reading disabilities had greater performance IQ than verbal IQ. Significant intergroup difference was related to the children aged 7-10 years. Positive evidence of left dominant hemisphere superiority for reading has been shown. Dyslexia was significantly more frequent in patients with left hemisphere epileptic foci, than in those with right hemisphere focal EEG changes. PMID- 2518463 TI - [Importance of iron for the recovery of malnourished infants]. AB - Thirty one infants with moderate and severe protein-calorie malnutrition whose blood hemoglobin concentrations were higher than 10 g/dl were managed with diet supplements containing iron fortified cereals for three months. In addition, 17 of them were given an extra daily dose of elementary iron (3 mg/kg/day). Mean weight gain was similar in both subgroups but mean hemoglobin concentration raised by 1,2 g/dl among extra iron infants in contrast with no increase or even decreased hemoglobin levels at the end of follow up in controls, thus demonstrating the importance of adding supplementary iron to these children during the recovery period of under nutrition, even it the diet provides the usually recommended 8 to 10 mg/day of iron. PMID- 2518462 TI - [Analysis of the cause of death in diabetic ketoacidosis based on 5 years of personal observation]. AB - The authors observed 53 cases of diabetic ketoacidosis treated with low doses of insulin. Mean age of the patients was 41 +/- 17 years, duration of diabetes mellitus 7.5 +/- 6.4 years. Ketoacidosis was due to: infections in 36%, other diseases in 7%, and cessation of insulin therapy in 25% of cases. Ketoacidosis was a first sign of diabetes mellitus in 19% of cases while causative factor was not detected in 13% of cases. At the admission to hospital mean blood pH was 7.02 +/- 0.15, mean bicarbonate concentration 6.17 +/- 3.45 mM/l, and glycaemia 40.6 +/- 16.8 mM/l. Therapy of ketoacidosis was complicated by hypopotassemia in 1 patient and transient hypoglycaemia in another patient. Five patients (9.6%) died. Infections, myocardial infarction, acute pancreatitis, pulmonary edema, and disseminated intravascular coagulation were the causes of deaths. PMID- 2518464 TI - [Modular diet and parenteral support in persistent diarrhea]. AB - Eleven infants with protracted diarrhea were treated with modular diet and short term parenteral nutrition. Mean age at admission was 3.7 months with males predominating. Enteropathogenic E. coli, classic serotypes, were isolated from 7 patients and rotavirus from one. A child with combined, severe immunodeficiency died. Milk protein intolerance was diagnosed in another patient. Balance studies and peroral biopsies were performed. Malnutrition was more frequent and hospital stay was longer in those infants who developed nosocomial infections. Even though this treatment shortened the duration of the hospitalization, the negative nutritional impact persisted: Weight/Age (NCHS) decreased from 84% to 61%, with rapid recovery after discharge. Fecal lactic acid excretion was increased on admission to 1,296 mg x day and disaccharidase activity was decreased. The modular diet decreased both fecal volume and lactic acid excretion. PMID- 2518466 TI - [Basis of nutritional support in pediatric patients]. PMID- 2518465 TI - [Juvenile myoclonic epilepsy: Janz' syndrome]. AB - Thirty two patients with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy are described. The most relevant aspects of the disease are the following: it starts at nearly 12 years of age or before; it is frequently associated with generalized tonic-clonic seizures; myoclonic and tonic-clonic seizures occur at time of awaking or shortly after; no pathological findings occur at the central nervous system; a large number of relatives show generalized seizures and the interictal electroencephalogram is usually disturbed by generalized epileptic activity. Valproic acid, preferably alone, is probably the treatment of choice for these patients. PMID- 2518467 TI - [Nutritional requirements of the low birth weight newborn infant]. PMID- 2518469 TI - [Prevention and treatment of infantile malnutrition]. PMID- 2518468 TI - [Nutritional status of the preschool child in Chile]. PMID- 2518470 TI - Sero-prevalence of agglutinins to Listeria monocytogenes in Nigerian domestic animals. AB - A survey using tube agglutination test was conducted to determine the antibody prevalence to Listeria monocytogenes serotypes 1/2a, 1/2b, 1/2c, 3a and 4b in 1,190 serum samples of 8 animals species from various sources in Kano and Kaduna states of Nigeria. Following absorption with Staphylococcus aureus antigen to remove cross-reacting agglutinins, 52 (68.4 p. 100) of the horse samples were positive. Twenty-six (36.1 p. 100) pig, 52 (20.8 p. 100) cattle, 50 (20.0 p. 100) goat, 20 (20.0 p. 100) dog, serum samples were also positive. Free-ranging chickens had an antibody prevalence of 18 (32.1 p. 100) while those intensively managed had 3 (6.8 p. 100), a difference found to be statistically significant (P less than or equal to 0.01; X2). Sheep sera collected from Zaria abattoir had a prevalence of 30 (14.7 p. 100) while those from Ahmadu Bello University, Veterinary Teaching Hospital had 6 (13.0 p. 100) prevalence. The prevalence in camel was 4 (4.3 p. 100). Overall, of the 1,190 serum samples tested, 26 (21.9 p. 100) were sero-positive for L. monocytogenes agglutinins. Each species of animal tested for L. monocytogenes was positive for all five serotypes, except camel which was negative for serotype 3a. Fourty-four (53.0 p. 100) samples were positive at a titre of greater than or equal to 480 for serotypes 1/2a, 60 (58.3 p. 100) for 1/2b, 57 (52.3 p. 100) for 1/2c, 7 (13.7 p. 100) for 3a and 23 (39.0 p. 100) for 4b. It is concluded that L. monocytogenes infection is widespread in domestic animals in Nigeria. PMID- 2518471 TI - [The main functional networks of a medical care unit with beds and the importance of each]. AB - The paper reports largely on the result of the sanitary-antiepidemic measures required by an adequate functioning of the sanitary units with beds. The need for medical and administrative spaces and for separate functional circuits to improve the activity and avoid the contamination of the environment, thus reducing the possibility of the appearance of hospital infections is also insisted on. PMID- 2518472 TI - [The stimulation of milk secretion in the immediate postpartum period]. PMID- 2518474 TI - [The contribution of paramedical epidemiology personnel to the prevention of transmissible diseases during their elimination]. PMID- 2518473 TI - [The promotion of natural feeding within a community medical dispensary]. PMID- 2518475 TI - [A study of the microclimate in collectives]. PMID- 2518476 TI - [A reference work and its author (Nicolae N. Sebastian)]. PMID- 2518477 TI - [The fever syndrome in the elderly]. PMID- 2518478 TI - [The provision of medical care for patients with upper digestive hemorrhages]. PMID- 2518479 TI - [The conduct of paramedical personnel in acute abdomen]. PMID- 2518480 TI - [Proper infant nutrition--a factor in decreasing infant mortality]. PMID- 2518481 TI - [Deontology and ethics in the activities of paramedical personnel in the hospital]. PMID- 2518482 TI - [The behavior of paramedical personnel in cardiovascular emergencies]. PMID- 2518483 TI - [Medical support in ophthalmic emergencies]. PMID- 2518484 TI - [Literature as a form of health education for youth]. PMID- 2518485 TI - [The humanitarian works of Nicolae Minovici (1868-1941)]. PMID- 2518486 TI - [The complications of major hypertension]. PMID- 2518487 TI - [Sterility]. PMID- 2518488 TI - [Acute respiratory insufficiency in acute dyspneic pneumonias]. PMID- 2518489 TI - [The conduct of paramedical personnel in obstetrical emergencies]. PMID- 2518490 TI - [The activities of the nurse in a TB dispensary in a tuberculosis focus]. PMID- 2518491 TI - [The efficacy of the correct dispensary care of pregnant women at an increased obstetrical risk]. PMID- 2518492 TI - [A nutritional study in a hospital home for chronic patients]. PMID- 2518493 TI - [Medical consultation in Bucharest at the beginning of the century and today]. PMID- 2518494 TI - [The role of paramedical personnel in maternal-child nursing in initiating, encouraging and preserving natural feeding]. PMID- 2518495 TI - [Inflammatory lesions of the larynx and the role of paramedical personnel in patient care]. PMID- 2518496 TI - [The permanent prescription for the hypertensive patient]. PMID- 2518497 TI - [The promotion of natural feeding in the area of a medical dispensary]. PMID- 2518498 TI - [Prophylactic measures at work sites in respect of the adaptation of working personnel]. AB - The paper shows the importance and role played by medicine in the orientation and solving of the adaptation processes of the individual at the working site and in modern life, under the conditions of variability and complexity of industrial development. Correct knowledge of work and of efficiency achieved provides the elements of a complete appreciation of the workers' adaptation, with the possibility of improving those conditions on which the formation of the dynamic stereotype depends. The efficiency parallels the training, being influenced by the adaptation of the respiratory and cardiovascular functions, elimination of useless movements during the working process and increase of muscular strength. Lack of adaptation may be noticed by inadequate evolution of the indices mentioned and the appearance of general phenomena--fatigue, neuro-psychical disturbances etc. Observation of the unfavourable effects of the working conditions upon the body should lead to application of prophylactic measures concerning rhythm and regimen of work. The results obtained in the adaptability process, followed up in the inpatient medical unit are reported. PMID- 2518499 TI - [Paramedical personnel--their presence in the prevention of risk factors for cardiovascular pathology]. PMID- 2518500 TI - [The care of children in the hospital (a study carried out by Else Stenbak)]. PMID- 2518501 TI - [The risk factors in atherosclerosis]. PMID- 2518502 TI - [The conduct of paramedical personnel in diabetic coma]. PMID- 2518503 TI - [The importance of dispensary care in diabetes mellitus]. PMID- 2518505 TI - [The third age and its health education options]. PMID- 2518504 TI - [Control tests in disinfection, pre-sterilization and sterilization in a central sterilization unit]. PMID- 2518506 TI - Syndromology gone awry--the phenotypic overlap of NF-1 with the Noonan syndrome. PMID- 2518507 TI - Neurofibromatosis in childhood: neuropsychological aspects. AB - Neurological findings, difficulties in reading and writing, and behavior disturbances in 27 children with neurofibromatosis were analyzed. Neurological symptoms such as seizures and motor disturbances were found in 37%. Tumors, mainly optic gliomas, and arachnoidal cysts were seen by computerized tomography in 26%. There was an overall functioning within the average range of intelligence; obvious mental deficiency, however, was found in 11%. Difficulties in reading and writing were present in 41%, and 47% had a school performance below average. Behavior disturbances outside the normal range were present in 28% which is significantly more frequent than in children of a normal population. The high rate of school problems and behavior disturbances indicates that early diagnosis and early counseling concerning behavior treatment and special school education are important issues in the care for children with neurofibromatosis. PMID- 2518509 TI - Prevalence of von Recklinghausen neurofibromatosis in Dunedin, New Zealand. AB - A point prevalence study of von Recklinghausen neurofibromatosis (NF-1) was undertaken in greater Dunedin, New Zealand, having a base population of 113,700. A total of 52 individuals with NF-1 were identified, for a crude prevalence estimate of 45.7 per 100,000 (95% confidence interval 31.6-59.8 per 100,000) or 1 in 2,190 and an age-standardized prevalence of 48.5 per 100,000 (95% confidence interval 34.7-62.4 per 100,000) or 1 in 2,062. This is the highest prevalence estimate reported to date. This is presumed most likely to be due to a small population effect. The prevalence of NF correlated with age, being greatest among those aged 20-29 years and relatively low among those 60 or more years of age. PMID- 2518508 TI - Intracranial abnormalities associated with facial plexiform neurofibromas in neurofibromatosis type 1. AB - From 1975 to 1988 seventeen patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 and a disfiguring facial plexiform neurofibroma (FPN) were investigated. The FPN was left-sided in 13 patients. It was orbital/periorbital in 4, lower facial in 7 and involved the whole face in 6 subjects. Neuroimaging (n = 13) revealed a tumor (of optic pathways or basal ganglia) in 8, an ipsilateral middle cranial fossa arachnoid cyst in 2, multiple areas of high signal intensity (in T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging) in 1, and normal findings in 2 patients. In NF-1 patients with FPN there seems to be a high incidence of intracranial tumors and possibly of arachnoid cysts. Our observation has to be confirmed in a larger patient series. PMID- 2518512 TI - The neurofibromatosis-Noonan syndrome: genetic heterogeneity versus clinical variability. Case report and review of the literature. AB - We report on a discordant twin male with neurofibromatosis and manifestations of the Noonan syndrome. He has multiple cafe-au-lait spots and axillary freckling, relative macrocephaly, ptosis, mid-face hypoplasia, short neck and pulmonic stenosis. The presence of neurofibromatosis associated with Noonan syndrome phenotype in our patient raises the question of a unique disorder sharing characteristics of both conditions. PMID- 2518511 TI - Anterior sacral meningocele and tuberculous spondylitis of the sacrum in a patient with neurofibromatosis. Case report and review of the literature. AB - We report a case of an adult male with neurofibromatosis and chronic low back pain. Evaluation revealed an anterior sacral meningocele, pulmonary tuberculosis, and later in the course of his illness, an osteolytic tuberculous mass in the sacrum. The patient was treated medically with a good outcome. The nature of anterior sacral meningoceles and tuberculosis spondylitis, the differential diagnoses, and relevant treatment options are discussed. PMID- 2518510 TI - Neurofibromatosis update. AB - This paper presents a review dealing with three major aspects of a modern understanding of the disorders known collectively as the neurofibromatoses (NF). In one section, the focus is on NF heterogeneity, clarifying the distinction between NF-1, NF-2 and atypical forms of NF. In another section, the focus is on NF-1 neural-crest tumors, with particular emphasis on the four types of neurofibromas (cutaneous, subcutaneous, nodular plexiform and diffuse plexiform), schwannomas, astrocytomas and neurofibrosarcomas. In the final section, focus is on NF-1 nontumor features, both as a clinical guide and as a reminder of the breadth of concerns that a pathogenetic schema will have to consider. PMID- 2518513 TI - Type 2 neurofibromatosis with Lisch nodules. AB - We describe a patient who, throughout a period of 6 years, had several cranial tumors in different locations. Bilateral acoustic neuromas, frontal meningiomas and a brain stem schwannoma were found on clinical and CT scan examinations and were histologically confirmed after surgery. These findings were associated with cutaneous neurofibromas and large cafe au lait spots suggesting the diagnosis of neurofibromatosis (NF) type 2. However, the presence of Lisch nodules, which characterizes NF-1, makes this patient rather unique. Clinical findings in the patient's relatives suggested the existence of NF-1 within the family. That is, the patient combines features of both types of NF. PMID- 2518514 TI - Periaqueductal gliosis causing hydrocephalus in a patient with neurofibromatosis type 1. AB - We present a case of primary nontumoral aqueductal stenosis associated with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF-1) in an asymptomatic 11-year-old boy. The diagnosis of hydrocephalus followed the finding of bilateral papilledema at an ocular assessment and the diagnosis of NF-1 was made during hospitalization for the papilledema. Periaqueductal gliosis was suspected on cerebral T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We believe that the incidence of hydrocephalus due to nontumoral aqueductal stenosis has been underestimated in NF-1. We emphasize the importance of early diagnosis of NF-1 and prompt evaluation in order to recognize this complication. In this regard MRI scanning offers more diagnostic advantages over other investigations. Forty-seven previously described cases have been collected from the literature. PMID- 2518516 TI - Schematic representation of NF-1 clinical features in Italian. PMID- 2518515 TI - Autosomal dominant familial angiolipomatosis clinically mimicking neurofibromatosis. AB - The autosomal dominant form of familial angiolipomatosis may be mistaken for peripheral neurofibromatosis (NF-1) due to the similarity of the family history and the occurrence of multiple subcutaneous masses, but histopathological examination of the tumors readily distinguishes these two diseases. We report here a case of familial angiolipomatosis, which was initially though to be neurofibromatosis, and the occurrence in this patient of a granular cell tumor similar to such tumors occasionally seen in neurofibromatosis. A review of the literature discloses intriguing parallels between familial angiolipomatosis and neurofibromatosis, suggesting that similar pathogenetic mechanisms may operate in both diseases. PMID- 2518517 TI - Jonathan Aaron Arkin: a commemoration. PMID- 2518518 TI - Proteus syndrome and neurofibromatosis. PMID- 2518519 TI - Isolation and some properties of lysine N6-hydroxylase from Escherichia coli strain EN222. AB - Lysine N6-hydroxylase was isolated as a soluble enzyme from the supernatant after ultrasonication of Escherichia coli strain EN222 which contained the structural gene on a multicopy plasmid (as described by Engelbrecht and Braun in 1986). The apoenzyme prepared by dialysis was purified by ammonium sulfate precipitation and fast protein liquid chromatography using Superose 12 and Mono Q columns. The molecular mass as determined by gel filtration was 200 kDa and 50 kDa by SDS/polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The enzyme binds 0.79 molecule FAD/50 kDa. The activity of the enzyme is strictly dependent on NADPH. Its properties are similar to other flavoprotein monooxygenases of the EC group 1.14.13. PMID- 2518520 TI - Ferripyoverdine-reductase activity in Pseudomonas fluorescens. AB - Enzymatic release of iron from ferripyoverdine through a reductive mechanism was demonstrated in cell-free extracts of Pseudomonas fluorescens. Ferripyoverdine reductase activity was localized primarily in the cytoplasm and/or periplasm and appeared not to be affected by the iron status of the cells. The reaction required a strict anaerobic environment and was fully inhibited by oxygen, whereas NADH was the most effective reductant. Ferripyoverdines from other bacterial sources (P. aeruginosa ATCC 15692, P. fluorescens ATCC 13525, P. fluorescens ATCC 17400) were able to serve as iron sources as well as ferric citrate. However, the activity with ferric citrate was not strongly affected by oxygen and did not display the characteristic lag phase observed with ferripyoverdines, suggesting the occurrence of a specific ferric citrate iron reductase. FMN should play a critical role in the reductive mechanism since it was absolutely required for the activity to occur with an intensively dialyzed cell-free extract, whereas it greatly stimulated (50-fold) the NADH-mediated activity of a crude extract. PMID- 2518521 TI - Toxicity of chromium and tin to Anabaena doliolum. Interaction with sulphur containing amino acids and thiols. AB - Toxicity of chromium and tin on growth, heterocyst differentiation, nitrogenase activity and 14CO2 uptake of Anabaena doliolum and its amelioration by sulphur containing amino acids and thiols has been studied. The final growth yield was found to be approximately 51% and 58% of control at sublethal concentration of chromium and tin respectively. Among various amino acids tested, cysteine (0.05 mM) significantly restored growth, heterocyst differentiation, nitrogenase and 14CO2 uptake of test alga. Dithiothreitol (1 mM) restored all the parameters and processes better than monothiol, mercaptoethanol. It is obvious from present investigation that sulphur-containing amino acids and thiols, viz. cysteine, methionine, cystine, mercaptoethanol and dithiothreitol, may appreciably alleviate the toxicity of heavy metals in N2-fixing cyanobacteria if present in an aquatic ecosystem. PMID- 2518522 TI - [Endoscopic retrograde transparietojejunal approach in hepatico-jejunostomy. An experimental model using fibrin glue]. AB - The Authors describe an experimental model that makes feasible to endoscopically approach a Roux-en Y hepatico-jejunostomy through a percutaneous transjejunal route. Potentials for its clinical application are briefly discussed. PMID- 2518524 TI - [Raynaud's disease and syndrome. Presentation of clinical experience]. AB - The Authors report their experience concerning 256 cases of Raynaud's Disease and Syndrome observed from 1968 to 1987; 23 patients underwent surgery for the treatment of dystrophic or gangrenous lesions of the extremities (12 cervico thoracic and 8 lumbar sympathectomies, 1 popliteal aneurysmectomy, 2 scalenotomies): a significant improvement of the clinical picture was observed in 91.30% of the patients who underwent the operation. The pharmacologic treatment obtained satisfactory results in 51.26% of all the patients. The Authors propose a three stage classification of raynaudian symptoms: I stage: sporadic vasoconstrictive crises; II stage: recurrent vasoconstrictive crises not invalidating working activity and "restitutio ad integrum" between attacks; III stage: recurrent and frequent crises invalidating working activity with asphyxia and/or ulcer-gangrene of the extremities. Both pharmacological and surgical treatment obtained the improvement of the clinical condition to an inferior stage in a high rate of patients. In three patients only (two of whom underwent scalenotomy and one popliteal aneurysmectomy) the complete and definitive cessation of raynaudian crises was observed. PMID- 2518523 TI - [Local recurrence after mastectomy by the Patey technique. Analysis of a personal caseload and characterization of risk factors]. AB - The Authors report the incidence of local relapsing in a group of 362 patients who underwent Patey's mastectomy from 1974 to 1985. The overall incidence was 9.6%. The predictive factors of major value were: presence of lymph node metastases, primary tumor size and grading. PMID- 2518525 TI - [Surgical therapy of diaphragmatic eventration in adults: indications, technique and choice of approach]. AB - The Authors report their experience in the surgical treatment of eventration of the diaphragm in the adult. Symptoms and indications for surgery are evaluated and compared with data reported in the literature. PMID- 2518526 TI - [Occlusion caused by colo-rectal carcinoma: personal experience]. AB - In the last 12 years 25 patients affected with obstruction from colorectal carcinoma were treated. Mortality following simple colostomy was not different from that of surgical resections (25% vs. 14% in Authors' experience). Major surgery (subtotal colectomy) registered a reasonable mortality rate (5-6%). PMID- 2518527 TI - [Primary tumors of the small intestine]. AB - Thirteen cases of primary small bowel malignancies treated in the last 11 years are reviewed. Remarkable diagnostic and therapeutic problems are related to these rare tumors that are often followed by poor results. PMID- 2518528 TI - [Leiomyosarcoma of the rectum]. AB - The Authors report a case of leiomyosarcoma of the rectum. Recent literature is reviewed and some problems related to clinico-pathological, diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of this neoplasia are also discussed. PMID- 2518530 TI - [Hepatico-jejunostomy]. PMID- 2518529 TI - [Endoscopic retrograde cholangiography in the diagnosis of hepatic hydatidosis]. AB - The Authors studied the role of E.R.C.P. in the presurgical investigations of hepatic hydatid cyst in a consecutive series of 24 patients. The reasons for admission and presurgical investigation (blood test, chest X-ray, plain abdominal X-ray, intravenous cholangiography, ultrasonography, liver scintigraphy, C.T., E.R.C.P.) are evaluated and compared. The results showed a good correlation, as related to the cyst and biliary tree relationship between operative findings and E.R.C.P. The E.R.C.P. provided an etiological diagnosis in obstructive jaundice and showed a biliary tract involvement by the cyst both in patients with a complication at admission or in the past history and in 25% of the asymptomatic patients (pericystic bilioma, exterior compression of bile ducts, direct communications between cyst and biliary tree). PMID- 2518531 TI - [Mesorectal resection in oncologic surgery]. AB - A surgical technique to "en bloc" resect the mesorectum while performing an anterior resection is here described. The procedure aims at preserving those nerves whose injury is responsible for a series of neurological sequalae, which affect the patient's quality of life. Fifteen dissections were carried out in order to demonstrate the possibility to perform an accurate mesorectal lymphadenectomy while preserving, in most cases, the nervi erigentes and, in some cases, the hypogastric plexus. PMID- 2518532 TI - [Toxic adenoma of the thyroid gland: personal experience]. AB - The Authors analyzed the thyroid diseases series of the Institute of 1a Clinica Chirurgica of the University of Catania which includes 1022 patients over the last 17 years, reviewing clinical and laboratory tests usually used in a register of diagnosis for autonomous adenomas of the thyroid. The Authors discuss pathogenesis, likely etiology and epidemiology of Plummer's adenoma, taking into consideration the therapy and the complications related to the therapy itself. They conclude stating that the adenoma is a pathology where the surgical operation solves the dismetabolic condition in a lasting way. PMID- 2518533 TI - [Operations for limb salvage in vascular surgery]. AB - Direct revascularization which involve the femoro-popliteo-tibial district is called "limbs salvage" surgery. Such operations are performed in the arteriopathic patient in order to avoid ulcers and distal necrosis, whose natural evolution, without an adequate treatment, leads to amputation. One of the distal by-pass techniques is obtained by using in situ saphenous vein. The Authors report their experience with 281 patients who underwent direct revascularization surgery (by-pass), discussing technique and results. PMID- 2518534 TI - [Emergency surgery in a general surgery division. Considerations on 1,300 cases]. PMID- 2518535 TI - [Clinico-therapeutic considerations on primary gastric lymphoma]. AB - The Authors report four cases of primary gastric lymphomas. They stress the anatomopathological, clinical and therapeutic problems related to this disease because, at present, they are still discussed. PMID- 2518536 TI - [Suppurative cyst or purulent collection in the diaphragm? A difficult, almost impossible diagnosis. Description of a clinical case]. AB - The Authors report a case of diaphragmatic cyst. They remark the difficulty of clinical diagnosis and briefly discuss the hypothesis on its origin. PMID- 2518537 TI - [Cefoxitin in the preventive treatment of infectious complications in high-risk gastro-jejuno-colic and biliary surgery]. AB - Cefoxitin is a bactericidal beta lactam antibiotic of the cephamycins group, with wide antimicrobial efficacy and active against both aerobes and anaerobes. In this study, 58 patients were divided in four groups according to the site of the disease (stomach, gallbladder and biliary tract, jejunum ileum and colon-rectum). The efficacy of cefoxitin in the prophylaxis of surgical infections was assessed for each group and for all patients. When compared with the combination of antibiotics used previously, cefoxitin led to a reduction of the mean duration of fever (7.2 and 5 days respectively with ampicillin/cloxacillin and lincomycin/gentamycin, 3.2 days with cefoxitin). Cefoxitin also led to a reduction in the incidence of surgical infections (50% with ampicillin/cloxacillin, 9.19% with lincomycin/gentamycin, 8.6% with cefoxitin) and in the incidence of localized surgical infections (29.6%, 20.3%, 8.6% respectively). In this study, cefoxitin has been found to be very useful and well tolerated in the prophylaxis of surgical infections. PMID- 2518538 TI - [Current role of radical surgery in the treatment of breast tumors]. AB - Though currently conservative surgical procedures have an ever-growing importance in breast cancer treatment, there is still place for radical surgery. The Authors describe radical techniques and their indications. The surgeon must know how to choose the proper radical technique, when it is not possible to perform a conservative surgical procedure. PMID- 2518539 TI - [Role of plastic surgery in male sterility]. AB - The Authors discuss the problems related to male infertility, pointing out their different clinical and therapeutical features. They stress the importance of plastic surgery in the treatment of disorders such as penile chordee, hypospadias as well as nervous and vascular lesions. PMID- 2518540 TI - [Liposuction treatment for lipodystrophy of the pelvis and the legs]. AB - In a series of 20 lipolysis procedures, there have been no serious major and few minor complications. Selection of patients is important and the best results can be acquired in the patients under 35 years of age. The postoperative circulation and diuresis control are very important particularly during the first 24 hours. PMID- 2518541 TI - [Semiologic manifestations and typification of neoplasms of the large intestine]. PMID- 2518543 TI - [Evaluation of prognostic factors in surgery of gastric cancer]. AB - The prognostic role of some clinical and pathologic variables in patients with carcinoma of the stomach was evaluated. While for some of these (invasion of the gastric wall, nodal status) the prognostic value is widely accepted, for the others (age, sex, size and site of tumors, histologic type, surgical procedure) the prognostic significance has not been fully defined. Using univariate analysis, the best predictors of survival after curative resection were nodal status, histologic type and serosal involvement. As related to the last three, using a multivariate analysis, the serosal involvement was the most important prognostic variable. PMID- 2518542 TI - [Surgical sepsis: myths and realities]. AB - The authors review the modern knowledge of sepsis, asepsis and antisepsis in surgery; they underline some surgeon's customary attitudes and convictions no more scientifically significant today. PMID- 2518545 TI - Extended wide lymphadenectomy and preservation of pelvic autonomic nerves in the rectal cancer surgery. PMID- 2518544 TI - [Growth rate of pulmonary metastases of malignant melanoma]. PMID- 2518546 TI - [Clinical implications of the infiltration level of early gastric cancer]. AB - Sixty-nine cases of early gastric cancer (EGC) were taken into consideration, out of a series of 585 operations for gastric cancer, carried out between January 1976 and June 1988. Differences between two groups (I: EGC limited to the mucosa; II: EGC with invasion of both the mucosa and submucosa) have been assessed with reference to familiarity for gastric cancer, previous gastric and duodenal pathology, symptoms, site of the lesion, histological features, lymph node metastatic involvement and results. Despite some pathological and clinical differences, modification of current surgical treatment with endoscopic management is not justified by any features, even when dealing with intramucosal, intestinal type EGC, because of possible lymph node involvement or long-term recurrences. PMID- 2518547 TI - [Prostaglandins and gastric cancer: a preliminary study]. AB - As high levels of Prostaglandins E2 were observed in several gastric diseases, the Authors determined the PGE2 levels in gastric cancer patients without recurrences, in pre and post-operative period. PGE levels were correlated with cancer progression and their significance as tumoral markers was also assessed. PMID- 2518548 TI - [Hurthle cell tumor of the thyroid: which surgical approach?]. AB - Hurthle cell tumors are a very particular thyroid disease. Controversies exist about the most adequate treatment. Radical surgery is sometimes advocated also for benign lesions, due to their malignant potential, but conservative surgery is thought to be adequate in most cases. The Authors' experience consists of 8 Hurthle cell tumors: 7 adenomas and 1 carcinoma. The latter has been treated by total thyroidectomy and the patient died after 6 months. Adenomas have been always treated by conservative procedures and there is no recurrence at a 2-6 year follow-up. PMID- 2518549 TI - [Carcinoma of the male breast]. AB - The Authors, after a brief review of the most important epidemiologic, etiologic, diagnostic and therapeutic problems related to male breast cancer, report their personal experience. They point out the importance of an early diagnosis in order to obtain satisfactory results, comparable to those achieved in female breast cancer treatment. PMID- 2518550 TI - [Parotidectomy as prophylaxis in malignant melanoma of the fronto-temporal and eyelid skin]. AB - Three patients presented with parotid masses which revealed, on frozen section, to be metastatic lesions from malignant melanoma. Their medical history confirmed that the removal of cutaneous lesions of the frontal, temporal or eyelid skin had been performed presumedly without histologic examination. Disease staging was assessed as p-T0N1M0. Parotidectomy was performed in all cases without complications, and DTIC was given in one case. One patient died six months after surgery for metastatic disease, another one died disease-free, the third is available for the follow-up. The Authors recommend parotidectomy for prophylaxis in malignant melanoma more than 0.75 mm in thickness which is within a few centimeters of the parotid gland area. Lymphoscintigram might be useful occasionally. PMID- 2518551 TI - [Chondrosarcoma of the mediastinum: a clinical case. Diagnosis using needle aspiration]. AB - The Authors report a rare case of mediastinal chondrosarcoma. Diagnosis, cytology and therapeutic problems are underlined. PMID- 2518552 TI - [Prognostic factors in gastric cancer. A clinical contribution]. AB - The Authors, after pointing out how incidence of gastric cancer has been reducing last decades, dwell upon environmental and genetic factors that may be linked to the occurrence of such neoplasia. After reporting the data of a retrospective study, they consider the survival rates related to the clinical stage and site of the tumor as well as the therapeutic treatment adopted. They conclude that, even though today gastric cancer is a neoplasia with a still unfavourable prognosis, an early diagnosis and a proper therapeutic procedure may give sufficient guarantees of success. PMID- 2518553 TI - [Breast secretions]. AB - Nipple discharge, a rare clinical sign, is more frequently determined by benign breast diseases, but it can be associated to breast cancer; for this reason such clinical sign shouldn't be ignored. Cytologic examination together with breast examination and thermography are the correct oncologic approach for nipple discharge, because such way it is possible to select the patients for whom mammography or galactography are recommended as well as and breast biopsy depending on the galactographic data. PMID- 2518555 TI - [Cavernous hemangioma of the small intestine]. AB - The Authors report an uncommon cavernous hemangioma of the small bowel. Pathological and clinical features are compared with those of the literature. Considering the difficulty of diagnosis, they remark the importance of histological exam as the only reliable diagnostic tool and surgery as the only therapy. PMID- 2518554 TI - [Esophageal stenosis caused by benign mucous pemphigoid]. AB - The Authors report a case of benign mucous pemphigoid. The review of the literature has confirmed the rarity of this disease. After having discussed acquired diagnostic data, the Authors show reasons to justify the endoscopic surgical treatment. Furthermore, they underline the importance of associated medical therapy as well as follow-ups which patients must periodically undergo. PMID- 2518557 TI - [Intraoperative pancreatic echography]. AB - The US intraoperative diagnostic procedure is useful either for the higher sensitivity rate or for the surgical decision making. The Authors' intraoperative diagnostic experience in pancreatic diseases is reported: 23 exocrine and endocrine neoplasms, 3 chronic pancreatitis and 8 acute pancreatitis cases are discussed. PMID- 2518556 TI - [Urethrocystography with and without a chain in cervico-urethral diseases]. AB - The Authors evaluate cystourethrography with and without chain as a method to study urethral diseases. Indications and complications are considered positively, because they allow an easy and safe control of the cases operated. PMID- 2518558 TI - [Splenic autografts in omental and subcutaneous pouches. An experimental study]. AB - An accurate morphological study has been done on splenic grafts in rats after 7 15-30 days from their implant in omental or subcutaneous pouches. Observation after 7 days confirmed the necrosis of all the central portion of the implants. Anyway, marginal parts of the graft survived to ischaemia and showed to be supplied by vessels, coming from the contiguous tissues. In these parts the rigenerative process had begun from the structures of red residual pulp, by reticular cells proliferating so to rigenerate the capsula limiting the place of the central necrotic area. After 15 days the neocapsula was completed and from it neoformed trabecolae departed accompanied with chords, sinus capillary, venular and arteriolar vessels which reformed the structure of red pulp both in peripheral and central area, now undistinguishable. After 30 days lymphocytes aggregating around the neoformed vessels promoted a rudimental reconstruction of the white pulp too. In conclusion, splenic implants are able to get over the ischaemic phase and after 30 days the red pulp is morphologically reconstructed and probably functioning, while the white pulp is still primordial. PMID- 2518560 TI - [Vascularization of the colonic flexures. An anatomo-radiologic study (VI)]. AB - The Authors briefly report the data obtained from a study of the blood supply to colonic flexures. In spite of many Authors' different opinions, colonic flexures are adequately supplied by the same colonic arteries through secondary vessels as well as by the blood flow of other vascular regions. PMID- 2518559 TI - [Surgery training in the United States]. PMID- 2518561 TI - [Motor disorders of the esophagus in gastro-esophageal reflux disease]. AB - The Authors report their experience in the study of oesophageal motor abnormalities in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease. By an electromanometric test in 50 subjects (20 healthy volunteers and 30 patients with oesophagitis), they evaluated the results concluding that: 1) LES low pressure is correlated significantly with oesophagitis; 2) oesophageal peristaltic dysfunction could be the effect of oesophagitis rather than its cause. PMID- 2518562 TI - [Surgical treatment of pheochromocytoma: our experience]. AB - The Authors report their experience of pheochromocytoma surgical treatment based on four recent cases one of which with extra-adrenal location. Newest and more refined diagnostic techniques as well as modern pathophysiologic data allow an early detection of the disease. Furthermore, the availability of proper medico surgical therapeutic modalities assures less risks and better results. PMID- 2518563 TI - [Rupture of hydatid cyst with invasion of the bile ducts and acute pancreatitis]. AB - Acute pancreatitis is a rare complication of intrabiliary rupture of an hydatid cyst. The Authors report a new case and discuss its clinical, radiological and surgical findings with special emphasis to the diagnostic approach and surgical management. PMID- 2518564 TI - [Technical considerations on 222 cases of esophageal anastomosis using a stapler]. AB - The Authors report their experience with 222 esophagoenteric anastomoses, performed in 211 cases for malignant neoplasms (middle and lower third) of the esophagus or stomach. Particularly, they have performed 4 Sujura operations, 31 esophagogastric, 4 esophagocolic, 183 esophagojejunal anastomoses utilizing SPTU, ILS and EEA circular stapler. GIA was used in the preparation of the stomach before esophagogastroplasty. Mortality rate of the manual period (1970-1980: 114 cases operated) was 14.5% versus 2.2% of the stapling period (1981-1987: 222 cases operated). From the technical point of view reasons of the superiority of stapled technique are discussed and summarized as follows: 1) space not favourable for handsewn anastomoses; 2) stapled technique allows the surgeon to save anastomoses vascularization; 3) the stapler performs the suture simultaneously so to reduce tensile strength on the anastomoses and the fragile esophageal wall especially; 4) stapled agraphes are fixed in three points vs. the two points of the handsewn stitches. PMID- 2518565 TI - [Role of surgery in the treatment of simple nodular goiter]. AB - On the basis of the pathophysiological data and their experience, the Authors believe that the medical treatment of non-toxic nodular goiter has many limitations. Furthermore, thyroid nodules may progress uncontrollably till to cancer. Surgery is safe in skilled hands, but in many cases it is necessary to remove the gland extensively. Thus, the best treatment is both medical and surgical, because prevention and cure are associated that way. PMID- 2518566 TI - [Ultrasonography and biliary calculi: a retrospective study on the diagnostic reliability]. AB - The Authors evaluated diagnostic reliability of echotomography in biliary tract lithiasis, reviewing a series of 130 patients (out of 171) who were surgically treated; 30 had proved to be affected with biliary main tract stones. A high rate of false negatives was documented as related to the diagnosis of lithiasis of the main biliary duct. PMID- 2518567 TI - [Diagnostic use of the cell culture technique in a case of postoperative saccate lymphorrhea]. AB - The Authors demonstrated the presence of tumour cells by an in vitro culture of the cells from the pellet of a postoperative saccate effusion, when no tumor cells were evident by the cytologic examination of the effusion. The ultrastructural features and the immunocytochemical characteristics of the cell line were analyzed and these data confirmed its malignant nature. It allowed a firm diagnosis, a correct therapy and prognosis. PMID- 2518568 TI - [Miction disorders symptomatic of neurologic disease]. AB - Urodynamic test has a main role in: 1) making a precise diagnosis in presence of urinary symptoms not clearly interpretable by other means; 2) assessing the characteristics of neurogenic bladder for a correct treatment; 3) detecting an underlying, previously not diagnosed neurologic disease in patients with voiding abnormalities. This report concerns 10 patients with urinary symptoms in whom the urodynamic tests allowed to suspect a neurogenic problem. Seven pts. showed an areflexic bladder with positive betanechol supersensitive test, 3 pts. had detrusor hyperreflexia, while in 2 cases there was a low compliant bladder. All the patients with detrusor hyperreflexia had also detrusor sphincter dyssynergia, while 5 out of 7 pts. with detrusor areflexia showed a denervated perineal floor. The final neurologic diagnoses were 4 protruded discs, 2 multiple scleroses, 1 cerebral tumor, 2 spinal tumors, 1 cervical spondylosis. PMID- 2518569 TI - [Etiopathogenetic and histopathologic aspects of acute necrotico-hemorrhagic pancreatitis in experimental animals]. AB - In this study, the Authors have provoked experimentally acute pancreatitis in the rat by different methods, in order to find out morphological modifications of the pancreas in the initial stage of the disease. In case of biliary and pancreatic duct obstruction with pure pancreatic reflux, both oedema and inflammatory infiltrations were evident, whereas, in the presence of biliary reflux too, more serious histological features were detected. In conclusion, the first sign of alteration in acute pancreatitis could be represented by the association of intraductal hypertension and pure pancreatic reflux. PMID- 2518570 TI - Rat thyroid epithelial cells provide limited accessory function but fail to present allo antigens in vitro. AB - Human and mouse thyroid epithelial cells (TEC) have been reported to exhibit a number of immunological activities including partial, but not total, antigen presenting capability. In the studies described here, the thyroid stimulating hormone-dependent rat thyroid epithelial cell line FRTL-5 was tested for its abilities to provide accessory and antigen presenting cell (APC) activity. FRTL-5 cells alone were not able to function as accessory cells for ConA induced polyclonal proliferation of purified T-cells and were not capable of inducing alloreactive T-cell proliferation in mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) cultures. Furthermore, even following the induction and enhanced expression of MHC class II and class I MHC products, respectively by IFN-gamma, FRTL-5, cells could not function as accessory cells or induce alloreactive T-cell proliferation as the singular stimulatory population in MLR cultures. However, these epithelial cells could effectively synergize with either low numbers of spleen cells, or with supernatants from activated T-cells, to provide accessory function in ConA stimulated cultures. These findings suggest that hormone-dependent and functional rat TEC cannot directly activate resting syngeneic or unprimed allogeneic T cells, although they can provide at least one accessory cell signal involved in T cell activation by mitogen. Thus, the results presented here do not support contentions that such a nonhemopoietic resident cell population is capable of directly triggering the initial activation of anti-thyroid specific T-cells. PMID- 2518572 TI - Methylprednisolone treatments alter apomorphine-induced circling in the rat model of 6-hydroxydopamine-induced striatal denervation. AB - Intrastriatal injection of 6-hydroxydopamine causes significant depletion of dopamine which is associated with contralateral apomorphine-induced rotation in rats. Pretreatment with methylprednisolone (MP) causes almost complete elimination of the apomorphine-induced behavioral responses. In addition, there were significant differences between the lateralization effects of the neurotoxin on the levels of striatal dopamine. These results suggest that MP may have ameliorative effects against the motoric behavioral changes associated with the intrastriatal injection of 6-OHDA. PMID- 2518571 TI - Effects of CD4+ and CD8+ T-lymphocyte depletion on the induction and expression of herpes simplex stromal keratitis. AB - The immunopathological role of T-lymphocytes in Herpes Simplex Virus type-1 (HSV 1) induced stromal keratitis (SK) has been well established, however, many questions still remain as to the actual mechanism(s) involved in the expression of this disease. To address this issue we have depleted mice of CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes at various stages of the disease and evaluated the effect of this therapy on the clinical outcome of the disease. We found that depleting mice of CD4+ T-lymphocytes either ameliorated the disease or halted its further progression. In contrast, depleting animals of CD8+ T-lymphocytes exacerbated or had no effect on the outcome of the disease. The results of this study suggest that CD4+ T-lymphocytes are involved in both the induction and the expression of SK, and CD8+ T-lymphocytes may serve some regulatory function in this disease. PMID- 2518573 TI - Neuronal mechanisms of goal-directed behaviour in monkeys. AB - The present paper is a review of investigations by the author and coworkers on rearrangements of impulse activity of single cortical neurons and subcortical structures in monkeys during the performance of delayed alternation choice. In prefrontal and parietal cortices as well as in the head of the striate nucleus and in the anterior ventral thalamic nucleus spatioselective neurons are found which detect cue location. This spatial selectivity is retained within the entire delay. Neurons of shortterm memory and units involved the realization of a forthcoming goal-directed movement are found in the prefrontal and parietal cortices. Basing on morphophysiological data intracortical reverberation might be considered a principal mechanism of storing the relevant information in shortterm memory. Intracortical neuronal circuits in the prefrontal cortex and long thalamocortical loops of direct connections and feedback in the parietal cortex may ensure this type of reverberation. The above brain structures comprise a dynamic constellation which provides extraction from longterm memory and storing in the shortterm memory of information about the conditioned signal properties and the relevant motor program. PMID- 2518574 TI - [Results of cross-species transplantation of substantia nigra to the lateral ventricle of the brain of rats with experimentally-induced Parkinson disease]. AB - The method of compensation of dopamine (DA) deficit in the striatum by living, DA producing cells implanted into the brain, creates new hopes for patients with Parkinson's disease. In view of many ethical and legal problems, connected in some countries with obtaining human fetal tissue for transplantation, cross species transplants would be an attractive alternative. The subject of our investigation was the problem of survival and functioning of embryonal substantia nigra (SN) neurons, taken from four species, implanted into the lateral ventricle of rats with denervated striatum. The recipients were 100 inbred rats of the Fisher 344 strain in which hemiparkinsonism was induced by unilateral chemical (6 OHDA) lesion of SN. As donor served foetuses of rabbits, hamsters, mouse CF1 and Sprague-Dawley rats. Immunosuppressive drugs were not applied. The effectiveness of the transplants was estimated by testing the rotational behaviour before and after transplantation over a period of 8 weeks at weekly intervals. Survival of the transplant was evaluated by histological and immunocytochemical methods. Behavioural tests demonstrated a statistically significant improvement persisting in groups of xenografts for three to five weeks. Histological investigations revealed that the time of graft survival corresponds roughly to the period of improvement in the rotational behaviour. The results indicate that without application of immunosuppressive drugs intracerebral transplant between different species survive no more than several weeks. Thus, it is necessary to search for homogenic material for therapeutic transplantations in parkinsonian patients. PMID- 2518575 TI - Word deafness syndrome with lateralized, progressive action myoclonus, epilepsy and cerebellar signs. Coexistence of multifocal and system, asymmetrical CNS degeneration. PMID- 2518577 TI - [Genetic cardiac dysrhythmias and the sequelae of heart surgery in children]. AB - Genetic cardiac dysrhythmias, although rare in pediatrics, may be often the first manifestation of the main disease or may determine the vital prognosis in some of these diseases (e. g. Friedreich's ataxia and Duchenne's progressive muscular dystrophy). This is more so, as at present, technical possibilities of implanting pacemakers, at ever smaller ages, are ever so great. The first part of the paper deals with these aspects, reviews, and analyses a large variety of genotypic diseases (metabolism genetic diseases, cardio-skeletal syndromes, neuromuscular diseases, cardio-auditory syndromes, etc.) and also a series of tachydysrhythmias or isolated familial conduction disturbances (blocks). Within each entity, the authors describe the main elements allowing the diagnosis, with special references on the rhythm and cardiac conduction disturbances that may appear, and with the necessary therapeutical considerations. The second part of the material presented is devoted to the cardiac dysrhythmias following the surgical intervention on heart, frequently used at present in the congenital heart diseases, at ever smaller ages due to the special progress in anesthesia and intensive care techniques. Correlation of various types of surgeries with the anatomical lesions of the excitation-conduction system they can involve, makes easier the understanding of the nature and appearance risks of some postsurgical rhythm and cardiac conduction disturbances. The distinction is made between early postsurgical dysrhythmias--that are often episodic--and tardy dysrhythmias that may relapse or become chronic, thus raising difficult treatment problems and sometimes require a secondary pacemaker implantation, given the major handicap they represent for the child. PMID- 2518578 TI - [The infant sudden death syndrome. The theoretical and practical problems. II]. PMID- 2518576 TI - Cerebral blood flow (CBF) autoregulation in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) during chronic administration of a theophylline derivative (P-23). AB - Chronic hypertension causes the lower and upper limits of CBF autoregulation to reset to higher blood pressure levels. In the present study we examined whether the theophylline derivative P-23, which had lowered blood pressure in SHR, would influence CBF autoregulation. P-23 (10 mg/kg po) was administered once daily for 4 weeks and tail systolic pressure was measured weekly in this P-23 group and in a control group of SHR. At the end of the treatment period, CBF autoregulation was studied. CBF was determined using the intracarotid 133Xe injection method in halothane/nitrous oxide anesthetised animals. The lower and upper limits of autoregulation were studied in two subgroups of rats by, either raising blood pressure (MAP) stepwise with norepinephrine or lowering MAP stepwise by controlled bleeding and measuring CBF at MAP intervals of 10 mmHg. In the P-23 treated group, blood pressure fell significantly but in the control group, blood pressure increased slightly. The lower part of the autoregulation curve was shifted towards lower pressure in the treated group and the lower limit of autoregulation was significantly different from that in the control. The upper limit of autoregulation was above 180 mmHg in both groups. The beneficial effect of P-23 on CBF autoregulation should be taken into consideration during chronic administration in clinical studies in man. PMID- 2518579 TI - [Infantile apnea. The etiopathogenic aspects. I]. AB - The paper reports on etiopathogenesis aspects of apnea, on the basis of the literature data. After showing the importance of the problem and the definitions accepted, the author presents the physiological and physiopathological framework of the breathing control. The paper deals with apnea and periodic breathing associated with evident diseases and procedures, and idiopathic apnea. The central, obstructive and mixed types of apnea and their characteristics are described. The final part of the paper dwells on other mechanisms involved in apnea: gastroesophageal flux, endorphines, increased serum level of catecholamines and abnormal awakening hypoxic threshold, tobacco and coffee consumption. PMID- 2518580 TI - [Hemorrhagic diseases in newborn infants]. AB - In 2% of the newborn children, hemorrhagic or nonhemorrhagic events may appear. The wider range of paraclinical investigations used nowadays permitted a better knowledge of physiopathological bases of these diseases. The paper reports on all the forms of hemorrhage: vascular hemorrhages, disturbances of the thrombocytic function (congenital and acquired), thrombocytopenias (following a low medullary function, or an increased destruction and the mixed ones), thrombocytosis. Coagulopathies generated by congenital diseases, with lack of different factors of homeostasis, hemorrhages due to the liver diseases and DIC (disseminated intravascular clotting) are also dealt with. All the chapters review etiology, diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, prophylaxis. Tables with etiologic forms, investigation schemes for differential diagnosis and treatment complete each chapter. PMID- 2518581 TI - [The current problems of persistent diarrhea in children]. AB - Although incidence of persistent diarrhea episodes is lower than the incidence of acute diarrhea episodes (5%), the former is, due to its consequences--including great mortality--, a problem in pediatric practice. The authors present a synthesis of the topical knowledge of persistent diarrhea in children in developing countries. After the definition, incidence and impact of the persistent diarrhea and of its risk and prognostic factors, the paper reports on the main physiopathological aspects involved. The treatment of the persistent diarrhea is presented in a concise manner; both the dietary and drug treatments are recommended. PMID- 2518582 TI - [Mediastinitis in children]. AB - The paper reports on the etiopathogenetic aspects of mediastinitis, clinical and radiological semeiology, the latter with a decisive role in establishing the diagnosis. The priority character of therapy is emphasized. Three cases of mediastinitis in children are presented: a mediastinal abscess, a suppurated mediastinitis with favourable evolution after drainage and a mediastinitis secondary to a fistula on a postcaustic stenosed esophagus. PMID- 2518583 TI - [Infantile cortical hyperostosis (Caffey's disease)]. AB - The paper reports on a case of infantile cortical hyperostosis (Caffey's disease) diagnosed on the basis of clinical and typical radiological data, and benign and without treatment suggestive evolution by leaps. The appearance of the disease in several members of the same family pleads for its hereditary character. PMID- 2518585 TI - The resistance of absorbable sutures in fetal tissue and fluids. AB - The resistance of three different types of absorbable suture materials was studied in three groups which simulated intrauterine conditions. In group I the sutures were incubated in the amnioallantoic cavity of chicken embryo (CE) and in group II in the fetal tissue of CE. For incubation of sutures in group III, human amniotic fluid collected during cesarean section operations in the thirty-eighth week of pregnancy was used. We discovered that chromic catgut had a lower resistance in fetal tissue than in fetal fluid (p less than 0.01), which could be an important point in the selection of fetal dermal sutures. In vitro incubation in human amniotic fluid did not effect the known rate of loss of chromic catgut, proglactin 910 and polydioxanone. PMID- 2518584 TI - [The efficacy of Macronil in treating acute respiratory infections in children 0 to 5 years old]. AB - The authors followed the efficiency of product Macronil in association with the usual (antibiotic and symptomatic) treatments in acute, viral respiratory infections in 62 children, 0-5 years old, admitted into hospital. Besides the usual treatment (25 cases--control group) Macronil was administered in 37 cases (experimental group). A significant improvement was found in clinical evolution (duration of disease evolution, improvement of general state, good appetite, fever duration, increase in weight) of the experimental group versus the control group. An important reduction (twice) of the pharyngeal viral population appeared in the experimental group treated with Macronil. In the control group, the viral flora, remained, practically, the same after treatment. PMID- 2518586 TI - [Zinc deficiency in digestive disorders and its aggravation by total parenteral nutrition]. PMID- 2518587 TI - Erosive oesophagitis revealing acute zinc deficiency during parenteral nutrition. A case report. AB - We report a case of acute zinc deficiency which occurred during parenteral nutrition in a patient with anorexia nervosa and which was characterized by a painful erosive oesophagitis preceding the typical oro-cutaneous symptoms. We also discuss the interpretation of plasma and urine zinc levels, the predisposing role of total parenteral alimentation and the specific therapeutic implications. PMID- 2518588 TI - When to perform the next intra-uterine transfusion in patients with Rh allo immunization: combined intravascular and intraperitoneal transfusion allows longer intervals. AB - Data from 99 intra-uterine transfusions performed in 30 patients (31 fetuses) with Rh allo-immunization have been reviewed. Mean gestational age at the first transfusion was 23.6 weeks and mean fetal haematocrit 19.8%. The number of procedures was on average 3.2 per fetus. Survival rate was 84%. Fifty-nine intravascular transfusions were combined with intraperitoneal transfusions. Combined intravascular and intraperitoneal transfusions, when compared to intravascular transfusions alone, achieved a significantly longer interval between transfusions and also maintained a higher fetal haematocrit at the subsequent transfusion. Mean fall in fetal haematocrit was 0.98% per day with a wide range. There was a general tendency towards a less marked fall during the second interval between transfusions than in the first with the exception of those cases in which the percentage of fetal red cells at the start of the second transfusion was increased compared to that which was found at the end of the first, i.e., when fetal erythropoiesis was not suppressed. PMID- 2518590 TI - Giant pigmented nevus with focal motor seizures. AB - A 1-year old girl having a giant pigmented nevus over trunk and widespread smaller pigmented nevi presented with focal motor seizures. This combination of features is rate. PMID- 2518589 TI - [Clinical, biochemical and histopathological development of post-transfusional non-A, non-B hepatitis from the acute picture to chronicity during 13.3 years]. AB - This case was of a 45 year old female patient with a post-transfusion non-A non-B hepatitis which was accompanied since an acute phase to hepatic cirrhosis during a period of 159.7 months or 13.3 years. Four hepatic biopsies were carried out and they divided the follow-up into 5 evolutive periods. The biopsies revealed a progressive histologic from chronic persistent hepatitis to an active chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis. The aminotransferases followed a floating course in the whole period, with ALT greater than AST starting from the 3rd period. The 3rd period (from 5th to 8th year) was of least activity of the aminotransferases, and the 4th and 5th periods (from 8th to 13th year) showed the highest activity of ALT. The 2nd period (from 3rd to 5th year) showed the least portion of gamma globulin and the highest of albumin in comparison with the others. There was no connection between the levels of aminotransferases and the values of gamma globulin and albumin in the follow up process. The treatment employed in the 5th evolutive period (prednisone and colchicine) did not present any biochemical improvement. PMID- 2518591 TI - Pacing of the diaphragm to control breathing in patients with paralysis of central nervous system origin. AB - Thirty-five patients, 21 males and 14 females, aged 2-69 years (mean 25 years) with partial or total respiratory paralysis due to high cervical cord lesions, brain stem lesions, or central hypoventilation syndrome (sleep apnoea, 'Ondine's curse'), received phrenic nerve stimulators for pacing of the diaphragm. At a mean follow-up time of 46 months (range 2 months to 10 years) 15 patients are entirely independent of respirator and 8 quadriplegics ventilate with pacers at different daytime intervals and use mechanical ventilators during the night. Five patients have stopped pacing and 7 additional cases have died of causes unrelated to electrophrenic stimulation. PMID- 2518592 TI - Importance of the adaptive properties of skeletal muscle in long-term electrophrenic stimulation of the diaphragm. AB - Clinical experience reviewed elsewhere in this issue supports the use of electrical stimulation of the diaphragm via the phrenic nerve in selected patients in whom ventilation is inadequate, intermittent or absent. This paper represents a muscle biologist's view of some of the fundamental problems posed by this technique. It reviews the long-term changes that take place in skeletal muscles in response to chronic stimulation, and it indicates how these may be exploited in order to make electrophrenic respiration more effective and more acceptable both to the patient and to the clinical support team. PMID- 2518593 TI - Lectin histochemical study of lipopigments: results with concanavalin A. AB - Concanavalin A (Con A) binding to lipopigments (LPs) of the lipofuscin type was proved to be due to the high content of mannose. Two mannose bearing compounds could be recognized due to their different organic solvent solubility. One was best soluble in modified chloroform-methanol-water mixture (10:10:3) and corresponded most probably to the oligosaccharyl disphosphodolichol (oligo-PP Dol) described to be significantly increased in LPs of inherited type. The second one, organic solvent insoluble corresponded to a glycoprotein (GP). The ratio of the two components varied. The deposition of the typical lipofuscin (age pigment) was dominated by the GP component. Its amount was greatest in neurolipofuscin (especially in the olivary nucleus) but very little in hepatocytic lipofuscin. In human neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses (of early juvenile, and juvenile types) both components were found in large quantities in the storage granules of the affected neurons. The "protein type variant" of the storage material (Elleder, 1978) displayed the highest degree of lipid-bound mannose accumulation, the GP component being absent. In the late infantile, infantile and Kufs variants studied in paraffin sections only, the GP component was detectable, too as in the case of the secondary neuronal LP in mucopolysaccharidoses and gangliosidoses. In the canine model of NCL lipid bound mannose clearly predominated, the GP component being in low amount on average. Neither of the Con A reactive glycoconjugates could be identified as the component responsible for autofluorescence. However, both are most probably responsible for PAS positivity of lipofuscins. There were no detectable Con A reactive glycoconjugates in the histiocytic ceroid. PMID- 2518594 TI - Ribosomal antibody response in rabbits and mice infected with Trypanosoma cruzi. AB - Both experimental chagasic infection and immunization with Trypanosoma cruzi cytoplasmic ribosome in rabbits and mice elicited antibodies cross-reacting with cytoplasmic ribosomal antigens of both parasite and normal mouse myocardium. The close resemblance of the response achieved in mice and rabbits, either after immunization with T. cruzi ribosomes or infection with the virulent parasite, suggests that autoantibodies to cytoplasmic ribonucleoproteins of different origins represent a noteworthy feature of the immune response in experimental Chagas' disease. PMID- 2518595 TI - [Presence of extracellular proteases in Pseudomonas aeruginosa]. AB - Proteolytic activity on hide power azure (HPA) and elastin was assayed in 32 Pseudomonas strains. Dye substrates were incubated with culture supernatants for 30 min at 37 degrees C and then released dye was measured photocolometrically. 100% of strains showed proteolytic activity on HPA and 56.25% were elastase positive, the values obtained with the first substrate were the highest. No relation with strain origin was established. PMID- 2518596 TI - [Study using phagetype markers of Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains from Ethiopia. A preliminary study]. AB - Twenty strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis from Addis Ababa (Ethiopia) are studied by means of the phage typing technique in mycobacteria. The results obtained show the preliminary distribution of phage types belonging to type I (intermediate) and absence of the remaining types. The lysis pattern of autochthonous M. tuberculosis is characterized by a prevalence of sensitivity to phages DS6A, GS4E, BG1, and D34. The early results of sensitivity obtained with phage Bo4 and its assessment within the current scheme for M. tuberculosis classification. PMID- 2518597 TI - Recent developments in antiviral agents: an overview. PMID- 2518598 TI - Cytochrome P450 dependent arachidonic acid metabolism in hemopoietic cells. AB - This report demonstrates for the first time that human peripheral blood neutrophils and human bone marrow cells metabolize arachidonic acid (AA) by a cytochrome P450 dependent mechanism. The formation of the cytochrome P450 (P450) arachidonate metabolites is dependent on the addition of NADPH, prevented by SKF 525A (100 microM), which is an inhibitor of cytochrome P450 enzymes, but not affected by the addition of BW-755C, a dual inhibitor of cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase activities. Addition of the Ca+(+)-ionophore A23187 to cell preparations stimulated the release of both cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase products but did not affect the formation of the P450 metabolites. Incubation of cell preparations with 14C-AA yielded a P450 dependent peak which eluted at 19 min. on reverse phase HPLC and was distinct from 5 and 15-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids (HETE's), prostaglandins and other leukotrienes. Recovery of the P450 dependent metabolite(s) was accomplished and preparations were tested in bone marrow clonal culture in order to determine if the substance(s) has/have any effect on the growth and differentiation of bone marrow cells. Results demonstrated that some of the material possessed powerful erythroid colony (CFU E) enhancing activity at concentrations between 10(-8)-10(-14)M. These results demonstrate that human bone marrow and peripheral blood neutrophils possess a third pathway for AA metabolism which is P450 dependent, and that metabolite(s) of this pathway may have potent stimulatory effects on erythropoiesis. PMID- 2518599 TI - Erythropoiesis in cancer patients undergoing immunotherapy. AB - We studied ten patients with various types of cancer who were being treated with Interleukin-2 (IL-2) and lymphokine activated killer cells (LAK). All patients developed a reticulocytopenic, normochromic, normocytic anemia. We noted some variability but no significant suppression of circulating erythroid progenitors. The levels of erythropoietin were lower than expected for the hemoglobin/hematocrit values. We could not detect Interferon or Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) in the serum of these patients; however, the supernatant of LAK cells did contain Interferon and TNF which could be neutralized with appropriate antibodies. These results suggest that the etiology of this anemia is multi factorial. Administration of recombinant erythropoietin (Ep) may be of benefit in some of these patients. PMID- 2518600 TI - [A study of different polishing techniques for amalgams and glass-cermet cement by scanning electron microscope (SEM)]. AB - Finishing and polishing an amalgam restoration, is considered as an important and necessary step of the restorative procedure. Various polishing techniques have been recommended to success a smooth amalgam surface. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of three different polishing treatments on the marginal integrity and surface smoothness of restorations made of three commercially available amalgams and a glass-cermet cement. The materials used were the amalgams, Amalcap (Vivadent), Dispersalloy (Johnson and Johnson), Duralloy (Degussa) and the glass-cermet Katac-Silver (ESPE). The occlusal surfaces of the restorations were polished by the methods: I) round bur, No4 rubber cup-zinc oxide paste in a small brush, II) round bur No 4-bur-brown, green and super green (Shofu) polishing cups and points successively and III) amalgam polishing bur of 12-blades-smooth amalgam polishing bur. Photographs from unpolished and polished surfaces of the restorations, were taken with scanning electron microscope, to evaluate the polishing techniques. An improvement of marginal integrity and surface smoothness of all amalgam restorations was observed after the specimens had been polished with the three techniques. Method II, included Shofu polishers, proved the best results in comparison to the methods I and III. Polishing of glass-cermet cement was impossible with the examined techniques. PMID- 2518601 TI - [Behavior of hydrocolloid impression materials during disinfection for AIDS virus]. AB - The aim of this study is to investigate the dimensional changes of hydrocolloid impression materials agar type and alginates, when they are placed in fluids for AIDS virus sterilization as Sterile pack, alcohol 75%, sodium chloride 10% and Cidex for 40 min. It was found out that when the hydrocolloids were placed in alcoholic and Sterile pack fluids a great deal of changes happened (contraction and shrinkage) that made the sterilization in them impossible. The percentage of linear extention and imbibition noticed in hydrocolloids when they were placed in sodium chlorides and Cidex solutions showed that sterilization in them is usually possible. The best way of sterilization is to make a gypsum model from the hydrocolloid impression and place it in the furnace for 30 min in 60 degrees C. PMID- 2518602 TI - Quantitative EEG effects and plasma concentration of sodium valproate: acute and long-term administration to epileptic patients. AB - The quantitative background EEG effects (power spectral analysis) and plasma concentration of sodium valproate were studied after acute single-dose administration and during long-term single-drug treatment, in 10 previously untreated epileptic patients with generalized nonconvulsive seizures. A transient decrease of the signal amplitude (preponderant on anterior scalp areas) and of the 12.5 to 45.0-Hz relative power (limited to the posterior electrode derivations) was observed during the first weeks of chronic treatment. These EEG effects were not correlated with the drug plasma concentration levels or with the occurrence of behavioral side effects (e.g. drowsiness), while being concomitant with the reduction of specific epileptic EEG phenomena. Opposite trends of variation were observed after single-dose acute administration, though with limited statistical significance across subjects. PMID- 2518603 TI - Empirical hypotheses on the psychotherapeutic treatment of psychosomatic patients in short and long-term time-unlimited psychotherapy. AB - In the Heidelberg Follow-Up Project, the results of psychoanalytically oriented treatment in a practice-oriented design are investigated. The patient sample is not homogeneous with regard to the diagnosis; the sample (n = 209) comprised primarily psychoneurotic and psychosomatic patients. All treatments were intended as long-term psychotherapies. The duration of therapy as well as the number of sessions actually realized may be regarded as one result of therapy. This situation, which is not quite ideal in the classical clinical experiment, allows us to develop the following empirical hypotheses: (1) The relationship between the therapeutic effort (e.g. treatment duration and number of sessions) and the results of psychotherapy can be mapped by a dose-effect model. The formal characteristics, especially the shape of the corresponding graphs, are similar for four different evaluation levels. Within the context of a dose-effect model, a treatment duration of about 2.5 years or respectively a number of sessions of about 160 seem to be most beneficial. (2) If we split up the total sample of patients into two subgroups (group 1: patients with psychoneurotic symptoms or non-chronified bodily dysfunctions; group 2: patients with psychosomatic illnesses or chronified bodily dysfunctions) and repeat the analysis, we obtain similar results for both groups of patients. The dose-effect graphs are of similar shape but differ in height. There is a slight tendency in patient group 2 that a treatment duration of up to 3.5 years may be associated with increased success rates. PMID- 2518604 TI - Psychosomatic aspects of patients on hemodialysis. 1. With special reference to aged patients. AB - Psychosomatic aspects of aged dialysis patients, who had been on long-term dialysis and started on dialysis at over 65 years old, were examined using various psychological tests such as MMPI Alexithymia Scale and Beth Israel Questionnaire. Alexithymic trait was observed most frequently in aged long-term dialysis patients. This trait has a correlation with physical complications, patients having bone or joint disturbance. From these results, two different alexithymic patterns are inferred: (1) Because of poor awareness concerning control of their own body, physical complications develop in patients with a predisposition for alexithymia, and (2) physical complications inevitably occur during long-term dialysis and patients exhibit secondary alexithymia. PMID- 2518606 TI - [Determination of the fraction of C3c complement by radial immunodiffusion in the serum and saliva from the parotid gland of clinically normal subjects]. AB - It was our intention to determine the C3c fraction in the serum and in the parotid saliva of 13 clinically normal individuals by the radial immunodiffusion method. The mean value of the seric C3c was 86.92 mg/dl and the confidence levels averaged 75.53 to 100.31 mg/dl. There was no measurable concentration of C3c in the parotid saliva. PMID- 2518605 TI - [Plasminogen activators as thrombolytic agents in myocardial infarction]. AB - Administration of thrombolytic agents can determine recanalization of thrombosed coronary arteries. Apparently, the earlier reperfusion is performed the better the prognosis of myocardial infarction. Streptokinase was administered to 117 patients with myocardial infarction at the "Instituto do Coracao da Universidade de Sao Paulo" and angiographic patency of the vessel was restored in as many as 87% of them. New thrombolytic agents, such as tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), single chain urokinase-type Plasminogen Activator (scuPA) and Anisoylated Plasminogen Streptokinase Activator Complex (APSAC) have been evaluated in clinical trials. Recent advances in thrombolytic therapy and comparative aspects of the various agents currently available are reviewed. PMID- 2518607 TI - Normal and abnormal visual development in kittens: insights into the mechanisms that underlie visual perceptual development in humans. AB - For many years the mechanisms that underlie normal and abnormal development of visual perception in human infants have been explored in anatomical and physiological studies on two species of frontal-eyed mammals, namely, cats and, to a lesser extent, monkeys. The unstated assumption underlying the investigations on cats is that despite substantial differences in the organization of the visual pathways of cats and humans, as well as quantitative differences in their perceptual abilities, principles of development established in the former also apply to humans. This review examines the extent to which this assumption may be valid. Following a review of certain anatomical peculiarities of the cat visual system, several of the differences as well as the parallels between the perceptual abilities of cats and humans are summarized. The latter similarities, as well as the larger number of parallels between the two species that can be drawn during development, attest to the validity of the choice of the cat for study of the mechanisms that underlie human visual development. PMID- 2518608 TI - [Therapy of the chronic phase of the experimental infection by Trypanosoma cruzi with benzonidazole and nifurtimox]. AB - Fifty-eight mice, chronically infected with different T. cruzi strains (Types II and III) were submitted to chemotherapy either with Nifurtimox (Bay 2502) or Benznidazole (Ro 7-1051). Twenty one mice were not treated and were used as infected controls. The duration of infection was from 90 to 400 days. Inocula varied from 1 x 10(4) to 5 x 10(4) blood forms. Treatment lasted for 90 days, doses being 200mg/kg/day during 4 days, followed by 50mg/kg/day for Nifurtimox and 100mg/kg/day for Benznidazole. Parasitological tests (xenodiagnosis, inoculations into baby mice and hemoculture) showed 85.3% negativation for Type II strains and 43% for Type III in animals treated with Benznidazole. As for Nifurtimox, there were 71.4% of parasitological negativation for the animals infected with Type II strains and 66% for those infected with Type III. IFA tests remained positive in 90% of treated and cured animals. Disappearance or marked regression of myocardial and skeletal muscle lesions was seen in the treated and parasitologically negative animals. The conclusion is that the treatment in the chronic phase of T. cruzi infection can result in parasitological cure in a high percentage of cases with regression of histopathological lesions, although with persistence of positivity of the IFA tests. PMID- 2518609 TI - Usefulness of serology for the evaluation of Trypanosoma cruzi transmission in endemic areas of Chagas' disease. AB - Thirteen communities from 7 Argentinian provinces were selected for the evaluation of serology as an indicator of transmission of Chagas disease. Of the communities appraised, 6 did not have a history of previous treatment with insecticides and 7 had received sporadic or continuous insecticide treatment. The inhabitants of 20% of the houses of each locality were studied by serology. The samples were obtained by finger pricking and 50 microliters of blood were mixed with 15 microliter of 50% glycerine solution in tissue culture media to be assayed by Indirect Hemagglutination and Indirect Immunofluorescence tests. In untreated areas, the prevalence of infection in infants 0-4 years old was 17.5%, reaching to over 22% for the 5-9 year old group, and to 33.3% in 10-14 year old individuals. The prevalence in treated and surveyed areas was 2.6% in 0-4 year old children, 5.4% in 5-9 year old and 6.2% in 10-14 year old youngsters. The differences between both areas were statistically significant (p less than 0.005). This study favors serology as a valid indicator for the evaluation of transmission of Chagas disease in rural areas. PMID- 2518610 TI - Schistosoma mansoni: on the possibility of Indian buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) being experimentally infected. AB - Male Indian buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) calves were submitted to Schistosoma mansoni infection by percutaneous, oral and subcutaneous routes. No worms or eggs were found in four of the animals tested. Bubalus bubalis appears to be refractory for S. mansoni. PMID- 2518612 TI - Morphometric study of hepatic granuloma in offspring of Schistosoma mansoni infected mice. PMID- 2518611 TI - [Prevalence of chagas infection in Catolandia-Bahia]. PMID- 2518613 TI - Immunohistochemical identification of serotonin and noradrenalin containing structures within the nerve plexuses of rat ileum. AB - The distribution of 5-hydroxytryptamine (= serotonin = 5-HT) and noradrenalin (NA) in the enteric plexuses of the rat ileum was studied using immunocytochemical techniques. 5-HT-like immunoreactive fibers were observed only in the myenteric plexus, surrounding the ganglionic cells, which are all unreactive. NA-like immunoreactive fibers were present in all layers of the ileum: in the myenteric plexus, they were localized in the nodes, forming a network all round the neuronal perikarya; in the Meissner plexus, positive axons were arranged in a delicate network; submucosal blood vessels were often provided by NA-immunopositive nerve plexus. In the inner circular muscle layer the immunoreactive NA-positive fibers run within nerve bundles mainly parallel with the smooth muscle cells. The 5-HT immunoreactive material was depleted by treatment with reserpine; depletion of NA by 6-hydroxy-dopamine was also observed; on the contrary, no depletion of 5-HT by 5,7-dihydroxytryptamine was obtained. To confirm the validity of these results, specific antibodies to tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and aromatic 1-aminoacid-decarboxylase (AADC), two enzymes involved in the synthesis of catecholamines, were used. In conclusion these experiments indicate that 5-HT is present, probably as a transmitter, in certain fibres of the rat myenteric plexus, distributed in a way similar to that of NA-containing fibers. However, at variance with NA fibers, 5-HT fibers are not present in other regions of the intestine wall. PMID- 2518614 TI - [Two-dimensional echocardiographic and left ventriculographic evaluations of left ventricular diverticula]. AB - Twenty cases of left ventricular diverticula were gleaned from 4,300 consecutive angiocardiographic records (13 males and seven females whose age ranged from 17 to 78 years with a mean of 52 +/- 16 years). Their findings were compared with those of 16 patients with left ventricular aneurysms due to myocardial infarction. In only one patient was a diverticulum first detected by two dimensional echocardiography before left ventriculography was performed. None of the patient had an associated midline thoracoabdominal defect. Five patients had premature ventricular beats, two of whom had ventricular tachycardia. Three patients complicated mitral valve prolapse and three atrial septal defect. Of the 20 patients, four each had two diverticula, as opposed to 16 others who each had a single diverticulum. The diameter of the diverticula ranged from eight to 70 mm. The sites of 14 diverticula were along the inferior wall; five in the anterior wall; four in the apex. Morphologically 15 diverticula were bulky outpouchings, six were tongue-like, and three hammocking. All diverticula exceeding 15 mm in diameter and originated near the mitral ring could always be detected in the short-axis view of two-dimensional echocardiography. However, those originating in the apex or of a tongue-like configuration could rarely by detected. Comparative two-dimensional echocardiographic analyses of 16 diverticula, 16 left ventricular aneurysms, and 16 normal left ventricular walls disclosed that the left ventricular aneurysmal wall had a higher echo intensity, but the diverticula had the same wall echo intensity as the normal left ventricular wall. Left ventricular end-diastolic wall thickness in an aneurysm (7.6 +/- 1.5 mm) was lower (p less than 0.01) than the normal left ventricular wall (11.1 +/- 1.3 mm), but it did not differ from the normal left ventricular wall in any case of diverticulum (10.2 +/- 1.5 mm). The percent wall thickening ratio in aneurysms (-3.6 +/- 10.7%) was lower (p less than 0.01) than the normal left ventricular wall (39.8 +/- 10.9%), but it did not differ from the normal left ventricular wall in diverticula (45.8 +/- 16.6%). Regional fractional shortening in the diverticula (41.3 +/- 9.2%) did not differ from that in the normal left ventricular wall (34.5 +/- 5.2%). In conclusion, a small diverticulum without a midline thoracoabdominal defect is not rare, and two-dimensional echocardiography is the diagnostic method of choice in many cases based on the echo features described above. PMID- 2518615 TI - Interaction of intravenous diazepam and bupivacaine in conscious dogs. AB - The cardiac and hemodynamic effects of bupivacaine, diazepam and their coadministration were evaluated in six mongrel dogs chronically instrumented for recording of mean arterial pressure (MAP), left ventricular (LV) pressure, and cardiac output (CO, electromagnetic flow probe around the ascending aorta). LVdP/dt was derived from the LV pressure signal, and its positive peak was used as an index of myocardial contractility. Heart rate (HR), RR, PR and QT intervals were measured from ECG. At weekly intervals, each dog received in a random order one of the following treatments: (1) saline as control, (2) diazepam (0.2 mg/kg, intravenous, bolus), (3) bupivacaine (0.4 mg/kg intravenous bolus, followed by 15 micrograms/kg/minute, during 30 minutes), and (4) a combination of diazepam and bupivacaine, as in (2) and (3), respectively. Despite its intrinsic cardiodepressant effects, bupivacaine induced a delayed (30-minute) compensatory increase in HR (+ 11%, p less than 0.05) and LVdP/dt (+ 10%, p less than 0.05). Diazepam decreased systemic vascular resistance (SVR; -16%, p less than 0.05) with concomitant increases in HR and CO. After diazepam pretreatment, LVdP/dt did not rise after bupivacaine administration, whereas SVR decreased (-14%, p less than 0.05) and HR increased (+19%, p less than 0.05). The QT-RR relationship remained unchanged regardless of the treatment administered. Thus, diazepam might blunt the compensatory effects of bupivacaine on cardiac function and may decrease the margin of safety of this local anesthetic agent during major neural blockade procedure. PMID- 2518616 TI - Surgical experience in the management of multiple neurofibromatosis in Nigerians. AB - Thirty patients with neurofibromatosis were treated by the Burns and Plastic Unit of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital during a seven year period from December, 1979 to December, 1986. Their ages ranged from 3 to 53 years. The indications for surgery were impairment of function in 66.6 percent, cosmetics in 20 percent, ulceration in 6.7 percent and malignancy in 6.7 percent. There was profuse bleeding during and after surgery in virtually all patients. Post operative infection was common and wound healing was generally poor. However, hypertrophic scars and keloid formation were not observed in spite of the poor wound healing and closure of some of the wounds under tension. PMID- 2518617 TI - Serum immunoglobulins in Nigerian neonates. AB - Serum immunoglobulins G, M and A levels were studied in 187 Nigerian neonates. Estimations were done by the radial immunodifusion method of Mancini. Immunoglobulin G shows a fall in value in the first few days of life to about 62% of the value in the last days of the neonatal period. There is however a gradual increase in the level of IgM to about double at the end of the neonatal period. IgA level remained relatively constantly low throughout this period. The effect of maternal education on the levels of immunoglobulins of their neonates was also investigated. This had a positive influence at the secondary educational level, affecting only the IgG and IgA. PMID- 2518619 TI - [Studies of the antigenic structure of Trichophyton equinum]. AB - In the studies on antigenic structure of T. equinum double diffusion precipitation test in agar gel and immunoelectrophoresis were used. While preparing precipitation sera in rabbits it was manifested that the best results are achieved by immunization with live antigen. In the group of metabolic antigens and water extracts of the strains of T. equinum which were tested, 10-11 serologically+ active fractions were found whereas in protein component only L1 fraction. In comparative studies based on cross-reactivity method in which native and absorbed sera were used it was found that metabolic antigens and water extracts of T. equinum and T. mentagrophytes have 8 common fractions and only one fraction reveals species differentiation features. Two fractions, marked J and K, appeared in the studied strains of T. equinum irregularly. In protein antigen which was used in studies only one fraction (d) appeared to be common for both species, while three other fractions were separate. PMID- 2518618 TI - [The use of clomiphene and menotropins as inducers of multiple follicular growth in a program of in vitro fertilization]. AB - In our IVF & related techniques program, clomiphene 50 mg was used from days 2 to 6 of the cycle in 20 patients and 20 cycles. (17 IVF patients and 3 GIFT patients) menotropins were also used in 2 different schemes: a) 2 ampules in alternated days (12 cases) and b) one ampule daily (8 cases). The patients with the daily scheme required lesser total dose of menotropins and developed higher estradiol levels, although this had none statistic significance, and they also developed a greater number of follicles. There were 16 laparoscopies for ovum capture and 53 oocytes were retrieved (30.2% mature) 10 oocytes were from the GIFT patients. 16 oocytes were fertilized and 8 cleaved. There was only one pregnancy from and IVF patient with the alternated scheme that ended with a first trimester abortion. PMID- 2518620 TI - A possible mechanism of the inhibitory effect of endotoxin on adenylate cyclase. AB - The possible mechanism of the inhibitory effect of endotoxin on adenylate cyclase was investigated. Plasma membranes were isolated from porcine thyroid gland and rat liver. The effects of endotoxin on adenylate cyclase activity was determined. The adenylate cyclase activity followed in the presence of various concentrations of guanosine-imidodiphosphate (5 x 10(-8)-10(-6) M) and NaF (0.1-10 mM) was markedly inhibited by endotoxin. Moreover, the basal activity of adenylate cyclase was inhibited similarly. The inhibition was concentration dependent. At 400 micrograms/ml of endotoxin a 60% inhibition of adenylate cyclase both without and in the presence of activators was detected. The inhibitory effects of endotoxin and its radiodetoxified derivative were similar. Neither of the two investigated endotoxin preparations tested had any effect on the 3H-guanosine imidodiphosphate binding activity of adenylate cyclase (neither on the binding capacity, nor on the Kd value). Forskolin activated adenylate cyclase was also inhibited markedly by both endotoxin and radiodetoxified endotoxin. These results suggest that beyond the other membrane effects there is a probability of direct inhibitory effect of endotoxin on the catalytic subunit of adenylate cyclase. PMID- 2518621 TI - Determination of the sedimentation coefficient and molecular weight of proteins by density gradient ultracentrifugation in fixed angle rotor. AB - The applicability of density gradient ultracentrifugation using fixed angle rotors for the determination of sedimentation coefficient and molecular weight of proteins was studied. Ovalbumin, bovine serum albumin, IgG-, IgA- and IgM globulin proteins, as standards were, among others, centrifuged in a fixed angle rotor (Beckman type 50) in 5-20% (w/v) sucrose density gradient for 300 min, at a speed of 40,000 rpm, at 5 degrees C. After centrifugation, the sedimentation diagram of the above-mentioned proteins was taken by a spectrophotometer equipped by a flow-through cuvette and a compensator. The sedimentation path was measured on the diagrams. A calibration curve was drawn by plotting the sedimentation coefficients of the standard proteins against the sedimentation paths. This curve, for which the equation y = 1.74x-1.6 is valid, was used for the determination of the sedimentation coefficients of several globular proteins under the conditions described above. The values obtained this way agree within +3-10% with those determined with analytical ultracentrifuge. If the logarithms of proteins molecular weight used as standards were drawn against the logarithms of their sedimentation paths a calibration curve was obtained. This curve for which the equation ln y = 2.022 ln x + 8.71 is valid can be used for the determination of molecular weights of globular or nearly globular proteins. PMID- 2518622 TI - Reevaluation of nonstress test by umbilical venous blood profile using cordocentesis. AB - Fetal blood sampling by cordocentesis was performed in 85 cases of fetuses with either nonimmune hydrops fetalis, anomalies, intrauterine growth retardation, maternal immunological disorders, Rh incompatibility, hydronephrosis, polyhydramnios, maternal preeclampsia or fetal tumor. Fetal heart rate monitoring was also recorded before cordocentesis. We evaluated the usefulness of the nonstress test (NST) with regard to fetal hematologic gas profiles including pH, pO2 and pCO2. When the acceleration was classified into reactive and nonreactive group, pH and pO2 were significantly higher in the reactive group than in the nonreactive group. pCO2 was significantly lower in the former than the latter. However, the sensitivity and specificity of the reactive NST predicting fetal umbilical venous pO2 over 20 mm Hg was 79.7 and 68.7%, respectively. The false positive rate of nonreactive NST predicting hypoxemia below 20 mm Hg pO2 was 44%. As a consequence, we cannot always rely on the NST, and should perform fetal blood sampling to assess fetal condition for further management. PMID- 2518624 TI - [Pharmacologic stimulation in delayed female sexual development (response of androstenedione vs. 17 beta-estradiol). Presentation of 2 cases]. AB - Two girls of 13 and 18 years of age, XX chromosomic pattern, complaining of delay in sexual development (Stage 1) and primary amenorrhea, were studied. Height, weight and surface area in the 13 years subject were three standard deviations below the anthropometric characteristics of already menstruating girls of the same age. Presence of uterus and ovarian tissue was demonstrated by laparoscopy in both, and afterwards, simultaneous measurements of androstenedione (delta 4) and 17 beta-estradiol (E2) were performed in peripheral blood, before and after: placebo, clomiphene (25 and 50 mg), LH-RH, FSH/LH. Under this trials the gonadal structures produced delta 4 and E2, being the former in many instances a good index of ovarian steroid production and associated to growth of pubic and axillary hair. In the patient whose menstruation began after the pharmacologic stimuli, the steroid production was higher as compared to the one, with initiation of no menstrual bleeding. Critical aspects of the various phases of the study are revised to better understand the physiology of some biological processes. PMID- 2518623 TI - The distribution of aldose reductase and aldehyde reductase II in different regions of bovine lens. AB - The distribution of aldose reductase and aldehyde reductase II in the epithelium, cortex and nuclear regions of the bovine lens has been studied. The levels of the two enzymes in different regions of the bovine lens were determined after partial purification by DEAE-cellulose (DE-52) column chromatography. Aldose reductase was present in all the three regions of the lens, whereas aldehyde reductase II was present mainly in the epithelium and cortex. The activity of the enzymes, expressed per mg protein, was 10-15 fold higher in lens epithelium as compared to cortex and when expressed per g tissue wet weight, was approximately 2 fold higher. Substrate specificity of aldose reductase purified from all three regions of the lens was comparable, but the susceptibility to inhibition by various aldose reductase inhibitors was significantly different. As compared to the enzyme of cortex and nucleus, the epithelial aldose reductase was less (30-40%) susceptible to inhibition by aldose reductase inhibitors such as sorbinil, tolrestat, statil and tetramethylene glutaric acid. The substrate specificity and characteristics of inhibition of aldehyde reductase II purified from epithelium and cortex were similar. PMID- 2518626 TI - Mild-moderate Kwashiorkor-Marasmus syndrome: anthropometric and biochemical observations. PMID- 2518625 TI - [Pseudocyesis: clinical and hormonal evaluation]. AB - Hormonal and clinical evaluation was performed in eleven females with diagnosis of pseudocyesis. Plasma levels of pituitary gonadotropins (FSH-LH), progesterone, estradiol and thyroid hormones (T3, T4, TSH) under basal conditions were measured through radioimmunoassay. Diagnosis of pseudocyesis was made according to the following criteria: a) secondary amenorrhea (greater than 12 weeks); b) two or more symptoms of gestation; c) conviction of being pregnant; d) negative HCG or pelvic ultrasound study. The circulation levels of gonadotropins were within normal limits. Progesterone exhibited a ovulatory pattern and thyroid hormones were normal for every instance. Once case had slight hyperprolactinemia (26.0 ng/ml) with impaired gonadotropin production and ovulatory progesterone. All patients had galactorrhea. The psychological study disclosed a tendency toward depression. Our findings partially confirmed previous observations, differing basically on that we observed normal hormonal trend. PMID- 2518627 TI - Sarcocystis in Somali camel. AB - Samples of heart, esophagus and diaphragm of 200 camels (Camelus dromedarius) from Southern Somalia were examined for Sarcocystis by trypsin digestion and histological examination. The results showed a very high prevalence rate (82.5%). Histological findings suggested the presence of two different species in the camel. PMID- 2518629 TI - RH polymorphism in the Senegalese population. AB - RH polymorphism was evaluated in Senegalese ethnic groups: Ouolof, Serere, Toucouleur, Peul, Diola and Mande. The cDe frequency was high, the cde frequency varied between groups and the cDE frequency was twice as high as the CDe frequency. No significant heterogeneity could be assessed between tribes. Nevertheless, cluster analysis disclosed the same pattern in Diola, Toucouleur and Ouolof, while the Peul were intermediary between these and the Serere and the Mande. PMID- 2518628 TI - [Isolation and partial characterization of phenoloxidase from apples (Malus domestica, var. Anna)]. AB - This study pursued the isolation and partial characterization of the enzyme polyphenoloxidase from apple (Malus domestica Anna variety), grown in the Hermosillo Coast (State of Sonora, Mexico). The effects of pH and temperature as well as its specificity towards substrates, and its behavior under conditions of hydrophobic chromatography, were studied. The enzyme was isolated from a residual powder obtained from ripe apples homogenized with cold acetone. The extract thus prepared was used to characterize the enzyme, and it showed an optimum pH of 5.36 and an optimum temperature of 35 degrees C. The substrate specificity proved to decrease from 4-methyl catechol, chlorogenic acid, catechol, and caffeic acid, to 3,4-dihydroxiphenyl alanine (DOPA). The enzyme resulted to be more thermostable (temperature range: 35 degrees C to 60 degrees C) than the rest of oxidases of plant origin. When the extract was eluted under conditions of hydrophobic chromatography separation, it appeared as a single peak resulting in a 300 fold purification. The phenolase activity characteristics found in the present study were similar to those observed in other apples from temperate climates; however, this particular polyphenoloxidase is more thermostable under natural conditions. This explains why apples of the Anna variety, at the high harvesting temperature, show a very fast formation of brown spots even when there is a minor damage. The content of compounds with phenolic group was high (1.16 g/100 g fresh weight). Further increase of the velocity of fruit enzymatic browning was due to this reason. PMID- 2518630 TI - Blood group distribution in Sudan. AB - The distribution of the ABO and RH(D) blood groups amongst 3087 random blood donors in Khartoum is reported. Gene frequencies are ABO*O = 0.6683, ABO*A = 0.1914, ABO*B = 0.1403, RH*D = 0.7436. The figures are similar to those last reported 35 years ago which were based on much smaller samples. PMID- 2518631 TI - Light-induced retinal degeneration in rdgB (retinal degeneration B) mutant of Drosophila: electrophysiological and morphological manifestations of degeneration. AB - Quantitative light and electron microscopy was used to monitor the extent of retinal degeneration as a function of age and temperature in the white-eyed rdgBKS222 mutant of Drosophila melanogaster. Parallel measurements of the electroretinogram (ERG) of the degenerating retina reveal a new phenomenon--the appearance of spike potentials following illumination with bright light. These spikes, which do not appear in the normal fly retina, have a relatively long duration (20-50 ms), regenerative properties, and a rate of occurrence which increases with increasing light intensity. The spikes differed from the light response in being more susceptible to CO2 and to cuts in the eye. The spikes completely disappeared at low extracellular Ca2+ levels which did not reduce the amplitude of the light response. The spike potentials become triphasic when the recording electrode is advanced to the level of the basement membrane. This suggests that the spike potentials originate from the photoreceptor axons as a result of synchronous opening of voltage-dependent channels in a large number of photoreceptor cells. The occurrence of spike potentials during the process of degeneration was studied. Two pahses can be distinguished: (1) Spike potentials appear in retinae of 2-3-day-old flies which display few morphological signs of degeneration. The frequency of appearance of spike potentials decreases in retinae of 14-16-day-old flies which show extensive degeneration of the R1-6 photoreceptor cells but no degeneration of the central R7,8 cells. (2) Spike potentials appear more frequently again in flies of 22-24 d of age. This is probably a consequence of degeneration of the remaining R7,8 photoreceptor cells. Temperature and the light-dark cycle had a critical effect on degeneration. Eight day-old mutants raised at 19 degrees C in a normal light-dark cycle showed only little degeneration. Eight-day-old mutants raised at 24 degrees C showed only a slight degeneration when raised in the dark. However, the degree of degeneration was greatly enhanced in the mutants raised at 24 degrees C under a light-dark cycle regime. The combined electrophysiological and morphological study of the degeneration, as a function of age and temperature, revealed that (1) the degeneration process takes place even in darkness, but at a slow rate, while light greatly accelerates the degeneration. (2) The degeneration is negligible at 19 degrees C, even during light, in the first week after eclosion.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2518632 TI - Chemically induced retinal degeneration in the rdgB (retinal degeneration B) mutant of Drosophila. AB - Chemicals which affect different steps of the phototransduction cascade were used to identify the site of action of the rdgB gene product of Drosophila. In the rdgB mutant, the photoreceptor cells degenerate after several days of exposure to light, whereas raising the flies in the dark largely prevents the degeneration. In the rdgBKS222 mutant, which was used in the present studies, the light-induced degeneration is characterized by (1) selective degeneration of the peripheral but not the central photoreceptor cells; (2) random distribution of degenerated cells among ommatidia; and (3) the degeneration is specific to the rdgB but not the wild-type photoreceptor cells. In the present study, we show that application of specific chemical agents to the eyes of rdgBKS222 flies in the dark mimics the effects of light and causes retinal degeneration indistinguishable from light. The agents used in these studies are the metabolically stable GTP analogs GTP gamma S and Gpp(NH)p as well as fluoride ions, which are known to activate the transducing guanine nucleotide binding protein (G-protein of fly photoreceptors). It is unlikely that the chemically induced retinal degeneration is mediated by effects on energy metabolism, since application of the metabolic inhibitors CN- and 2-deoxy-D-glucose did not increase the extent of retinal degeneration over that observed in control flies treated with Ringer solution. The GDP analog GDP beta S, which inhibits G-protein activity, greatly reduced the extent of retinal degeneration in the dark, over that observed in control flies treated with Ringer solution. These results suggest that activation of the G-protein precedes the step in the transduction cascade that leads to retinal degeneration and provides a powerful tool to investigate the molecular mechanism of light-induced degeneration in the rdgB mutant. PMID- 2518633 TI - Visual response properties of cortical inputs to an extrastriate cortical area in the cat. AB - The existence of multiple areas of extrastriate visual cortex raises the question of how the response properties of each area are derived from its visual input. This question was investigated for one such area in the cat, referred to here as the Clare-Bishop area (Hubel & Wiesel, 1969); it is the region of lateral suprasylvian cortex that receives input from area 17. A novel approach was used, in which kainic acid was injected locally into the Clare-Bishop area, making it possible to record directly from afferent inputs. The response properties of the great majority of a sample of 424 presumed afferents resembled cells in areas 17 and 18. Thus, a systematic comparison was made with cells from area 17's upper layers, the source of its projection to the Clare-Bishop area (Gilbert & Kelly, 1975), to see whether these afferents had distinctive properties that might distinguish them from cells projecting to areas 18 or 19. Some differences did emerge: (1) The smallest receptive fields typical of area 17 were relatively scarce among afferents. (2) Direction-selective afferents were more abundant than were such cells in area 17. (3) End-stopped afferents were extremely rare, although end-stopped cells were common in area 17's upper layers. Despite these differences, afferents were far more similar in their properties to cells in areas 17 and 18 than to cells in the Clare-Bishop area. Compared to the latter, afferents showed major discrepancies in receptive-field size, in direction selectivity, in end-stopping, and in ocular dominance distribution. These differences seem most likely to stem from circuitry intrinsic to the Clare-Bishop area. PMID- 2518634 TI - The morphological characterization and distribution of displaced ganglion cells in the anuran retina. AB - The number, dendritic morphology, and retinal distribution of displaced ganglion cells were studied in two anuran species, Xenopus laevis and Bufo marinus. Horseradish peroxidase or cobaltic lysine complex was applied to the cut end of the optic nerve, and the size, shape, and retinal position of retrogradely filled ganglion cells displaced into the inner nuclear layer were determined in retinal wholemount and sectioned material. Approximately 1% of ganglion cells in Xenopus and 0.1% in Bufo were found to be displaced. In both species, many of the previously described orthotopic ganglion cell types (Straznicky & Straznicky, 1988; Straznicky et al., 1990) were present among displaced ganglion cells. In Xenopus more displaced ganglion cells were found in the retinal periphery than in the retinal center, and they formed 3 or 4 distinct bands around the optic nerve head. In Bufo the incidence of displaced ganglion cells was higher along the visual streak than in the dorsal and ventral peripheral retina. These results indicate that the distribution of displaced ganglion cells approximates the retinal distribution of orthotopic ganglion cells. One of the likely mechanisms to account for this developmental paradox may be that the formation of the inner plexiform layer, adjacent to the ciliary margin, acts as a mechanical barrier by preventing the entry of some of the late developing ganglion cells into the ganglion cell layer. PMID- 2518635 TI - Production of interferon-alpha and gamma by leukocytes from patients with schizophrenia. AB - Production of interferon (IFN)-alpha and -gamma by leukocytes from 34 patients with acute schizophrenia and 34 controls was measured before and after 5-6 weeks of antipsychotic treatment by using Sendai virus as IFN-alpha inducer and lentil lectin as inducer for IFN-gamma production. The schizophrenia series included 13 first admission patients (mean duration of illness 1.1 years) and 21 re-entry patients (mean duration of illness 10.1 years). Of the total series 23 were drug free at the time of pretreatment sampling. In all subgroups the schizophrenic patients produced less IFNs than healthy controls although the differences reached statistical significance only in the total group of schizophrenic patients with regard to production of IFN-alpha. The antipsychotic drug treatment did not have an effect on IFN production. The techniques used, the influence of genetic factors, and eventual clinical implications are discussed. PMID- 2518636 TI - Enterotomy fusion with laser energy: preliminary results in rabbit ileum. AB - The utility of enterotomy closure with the argon and CO2 lasers was examined in New Zealand white rabbit ileum. Thermal properties of 10 argon (0.5 W power for 30 s, energy fluence 230 J/cm2) and 10 CO2 (1.0 W power for 30 s, energy fluence 2700 J/cm2) laser-fused enterotomies were determined during acute fusion experiments using an AGA 782 digital thermographic camera. Healing of the fusions created by the two lasers was subsequently assessed in an additional group of 28 rabbits by comparing three 1.0-cm longitudinal ileal enterotomies, with each rabbit having both types of laser-welded closures and a sutured control. Thermal measurements made from the 10 closures with each laser revealed that the CO2 fusions generated significantly higher temperatures (max. 198 degrees C, mean 106 +/- 37 degrees C, n = 100) than argon (max. 85.2 degrees C, mean 60.5 + 8.1 degrees C, n = 100) p less than 0.001. In the healing studies, four rabbits died from weld failures (one argon and one CO2 disruption, two rabbits with both welds disrupted). Two additional rabbits died at 1 day and one at 10 days for undetermined reasons. The remainder of the animals were sacrificed at 1 (n = 11), 2 (n = 2) and 4 (n = 9) weeks postoperatively. Sutured closures exhibited more granulation tissue and adhesions surrounding the wounds than did welded closures and seven microabscesses were noted adjacent to sutured repairs. One of the CO2 repairs had an abscess at 4 weeks and none of the argon laser fusions had evidence of disruption or abscess.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2518637 TI - Effects of Ca++ depletion on lens equatorial currents in frog lenses. AB - The combination of the vibrating probe measuring the outward equatorial current (J) with microelectrodes measuring PD and the response to injected current provides one of the best means of relating macro findings of lens currents to the micro data that have been reported using the patch clamp technique. In standard frog Ringers solution the equatorial current appears to be a relatively pure K+ current with a reversal potential of -95 mV. This agrees with the reversal potential of the 45 pS K+ channel. When Ca++ is removed from the medium bathing the lens the input resistance (R) decreases, the PD becomes less negative and the current J increases. This process can be reversed by adding Ca++ or Mn++ to the Ca++ deficient medium. When all Ca++ is removed from the medium by adding EGTA in the absence of Ca++, the increase in J is less than expected. However, if Na+ is replaced by TMA in the Ca++ depleted EGTA medium the current is seven times as great. These changes are consistent with those found in non-selective cation channels in the absence of Ca++. PMID- 2518638 TI - Glass-ionomer (Polyalkenoate) cements. Part 1. Development, setting reaction, structure and types. AB - The unique properties of the glass-ionomer (or polyalkenoate) cement have widened the compass of restorative and preventive dentistry and changed traditional practice methods. Glass-ionomer cements are the reaction product of an aluminosilicate glass and a polyacid, for example poly (acrylic acid). PMID- 2518640 TI - Surface markers on human activated T lymphocytes. II. CD4 and CD8 differentiation antigens. AB - In order to estimate the dependence of CD4 and CD8 antigen expression upon the cell activation, their presence on resting and activated human T cells was investigated. Peripheral blood lymphocytes of healthy donors derived from late (TEl) and early (TEe) E rosettes were used as resting and presumably in vivo activated T cell subsets, respectively. Expression of the above markers on T cells stimulated in vitro with PHA was also examined. It was found that both lymphocyte subsets contained similar percentage of CD4+ cells, nevertheless, TEe subset was partially enriched in CD8+ cells. PHA stimulation induced in TEe and TEl subsets the considerable increase of proportion of phenotypical opposing cells, CD8+ or CD4+, respectively. The above changes coincided with the time of the maximal DNA synthesis (the 72nd h of cell stimulation). PMID- 2518639 TI - Inhibition of several enzymes by gold compounds. II. beta-Glucuronidase, acid phosphatase and L-malate dehydrogenase by sodium thiomalatoraurate (I), sodium thiosulfatoaurate (I) and thioglucosoaurate (I). AB - Bovine liver beta-D-glucuronide glucuronohydrolase, EC 3.2.1.32), wheat germ acid phosphatase (orthophosphoric monoesterphosphohydrolase, EC 3.1.3.2) and bovine liver L-malate dehydrogenase (L-malate: NAD oxidoreductase, EC 1.1.1.37) were inhibited by a series of gold (I) complexes that have been used as anti inflammatory drugs. Both sodium thiosulfatoaurate (I) (Na AuTs) and sodium thiomalatoraurate (NaAuTM) effectively inhibited all three enzymes, while thioglucosoaurate (I) (AuTG) only inhibited L-malate dehydrogenase. The equilibrium constants (K1) ranged from nearly 4000 microM for the NaAuTM-beta glucuronidase interaction to 24 microM for the NaAuTS-beta-glucuronidase interaction. The rate of covalent bond formation (kp) ranged from 0.00032 min-1 for NaAuTM-beta-glucuronidase formation to 1.7 min-1 for AuTG-L-malate dehydrogenase formation. The equilibrium data shows that the gold (I) drugs bind by several orders lower than the gold (III) compounds, suggesting a significantly stronger interaction between the more highly charged gold ion and the enzyme. Yet the rate of covalent bond formation depends as much on the structure of the active site as upon the lability of the gold-ligand bond. It was also observed that the more effective the gold inhibition the more toxic the compound. PMID- 2518641 TI - [Immunologic protection against Chagas disease. Independent effects upon infection, dissemination and lesions of Trypanosoma cruzi]. AB - An attenuated T. cruzi strain (TCC) can exert immunizing effects against homologous virulent parasites. Titration of infective and protective TCC doses shows a wide immunizing dose range for epimastigotes and a subpatent infective capacity for trypomastigotes at high doses. As increasingly sensitive methods are applied to detect infection in immunized-challenged animals, different levels of resistance can be revealed. These range from total prevention of infection in very few animals to mere prevention of mortality and high parasitemia. Potentiation of each of these resistance levels was tested after immunization with two live and two killed vaccine preparations. All vaccines significantly strengthened intermediate or incomplete resistance levels. None of them seemed to produce significant changes regarding total rejection of low challenge doses. Whereas these levels of resistance do not seem useful against infection in humans, they can conceivably be used to interfere the domestic transmission cycle of the parasite by vaccination of domestic animals. Preliminary evidence for this possibility has been demonstrated in the field by vaccinating domestic guinea pigs against natural T. cruzi infection with either live attenuated or killed parasite vaccines. PMID- 2518643 TI - [Evaluation of an enzyme immunoassay for the rapid diagnosis of paucibacillary tuberculosis in adults]. AB - The ELISA has been extensively evaluated as a serodiagnostic method for tuberculosis. However, there is scarce information about its application to cases that cannot be diagnosed by microscopic examination: those with closed lesions or undergoing early stages of the disease. Since a reliable serological test might substantially contribute to their prompt detection, the objective of the present study was to determine the diagnostic value of an ELISA applied to adult smear negative cases of tuberculosis. Sera from 235 patients with active tuberculosis- 176 pulmonary and 59 extrapulmonary cases--and 181 control subjects were tested for IgG antibodies to PPD by ELISA. Eleven cases of non tuberculous mycobacterial (MOTT) disease and 33 cases of mycosis were also included in this group. With the adopted cut-off value, 73.9% (105/142) of smear positive and 52.7% (49/93) of smear negative tuberculosis cases, were correctly classified. Particularly in the latter, the test was positive in 55.2% (32/58) of patients with positive cultures for Mycobacterium tuberculosis and in 48.6% (17/35) of patients diagnosed by clinical, radiological and or histopathological findings. No antibody activity was demonstrated in 92.7% of sera from the control population which included 92 healthy volunteers, 32 non tuberculous diseased subjects and 13 household contacts of smear-positive cases. Among those control subjects who were skin tested, ELISA results were not related to the tuberculin reactivity: 93.7% (30/32) of tuberculin negative and 95.2% (40/42) of tuberculin positive healthy individuals had no detectable antibodies.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2518642 TI - [Molecular and immunologic bases for the development of a vaccine against Chagas disease]. AB - Subcellular fractions of T. cruzi epimastigotes (Epi) were studied for their capability to induce protective or aggressive effects in animals. The flagellar fraction (F) showed the best immunoprotective properties without tissular aggression. Monoclonal antibodies were raised against F. Two of them, FCH-F8-1 and 4, were able to neutralize the infectivity of bloodstream forms, to mediate lysis by complement of cell culture derived[trypomastigotes (Tripo) and to recognize the surface of Tripo and Epi. FCH-F8-1 reacted with a 85 kDa protein from Tripo (assayed by immunoprecipitation) and with peptides of 43 kDa on Epi and Tripo (tested by immunoblotting). FCH-F8-4 recognized several proteins ranging from 50 to 150 kDa on Epi and two molecules of 15 and 48 kDa on Tripo. Mice immunized with antigens purified by affinity chromatography by using FCH-F8 4 were protected against the infection. Several recombinant clones were detected on a cDNA lambda gt11 expression library constructed from T. cruzi Epi (Tulahuen strain): three with FCH-F8-4 and two with FCH-F8-1. One clone recognized by each monoclonal antibody was studied gamma (FCH-F8-1) 1 and gamma (FCH-F8-4) 1. Both inserts were of 150 base pairs each; they detected a 3.5 and 5.0 kilobases Epi mRNA, respectively. Both inserts were sequenced, and the amino acid sequences were inferred. gamma (FCH-F8-4) 1 codified for a 19 aa peptide, PAFLGCSSRFSGSFSGVEP, and gamma (FCH-F8-1) 1 for a 29 aa peptide EFLERGRISCORHSYTSYTSCSDEHNVTPFC. The whole 19 aa peptide was synthesized. This peptide (SP4) inhibited the ELISA reactivity against the parasite of chronically infected and F immunized mouse sera.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2518644 TI - [Subcutaneous and intranasal use of a LH-RH analog in the treatment of girls with central precocious puberty]. AB - Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone analogues (LH-RHa) offer a novel approach for non-steroidal manipulation of the reproductive endocrine axis. LH-RH agonists are now employed in the management of central precocious puberty (CPP). The aim of the present work is to show the results of one of the first experiences in our country in the therapeutics of this pathology with LH-RHa (Buserelin) both subcutaneously (SC) and intranasally (IN). Five girls with CPP, aged 1.3 to 6.8 years, were selected (Table 1). The doses employed were: 25 micrograms/kg/day in 2 SC applications followed by 1200 micrograms/day IN. In case 4 IN route only was used because she presented an allergic cutaneous reaction to the SC injection and in case 3 only the SC route was employed because of her chronological age. The period of treatment oscillated between 3 and 21 months. In 2 girls 150 mg of medroxyprogesterone was administered before the analogue therapy and it was maintained during a week. In 4 patients a regression of breast development was observed to Tanner's I or II incipient grades and in case 1 only partial involution was noted. In 4 of the 5 patients, annual growth velocity could be evaluated, showing in 3 of them a reduction between 40 and 55% VS pretreatment associated with a desacceleration of the skeletal maturation (Figs. 1, 2). The prediction of adult height increased 2 cm in one case and 4.5 cm in 2 cases; 4/5 girls showed a reduction of FSH, LH and estradiol levels to prepubertal values after 3 months of treatment and in one patient after 6 months of therapy (Fig. 3).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2518646 TI - [In vitro susceptibility of Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli to quinolone antibiotics]. AB - In this study, in vitro susceptibilities of 24 campylobacter strains isolated from fecal samples were tested for quinolone antibiotics. 13 of the strains were identified as C. jejuni and 11 of them were C. coli. Antibiotics which were included in this study were ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, pefloxacin and fleroxacin. Antibiotic susceptibility tests were performed on Mueller-Hinton agar (supplemented with 5% sheep blood) using the agar dilution method. Results showed that quinolone antibiotics are very active against Campylobacter species. There was not any marked difference between the susceptibility patterns of C. jejuni and C. coli. PMID- 2518645 TI - [Neonatal Chagas disease: laboratory diagnosis during the first year of life]. AB - This paper describes the parasitologic and serologic studies carried out during the first year of life in 721 pediatric patients born to mothers serologically positive for Chagas disease. The search for circulating trypomastigotes was performed by Strout, blood culture and/or Xenodiagnosis. In some cases, amastigotes were also detected in placenta and umbilical cord. Complement fixation test, indirect hemagglutination and indirect immunofluorescence were used to detect Trypanosoma cruzi antibodies. The dosage of total Ig by single radial immunodiffusion was also carried out. The results obtained showed an absolute correlation between parasite detection and the persistence of antibodies after six months of life. In the first group (GI) formed by 8 children, the diagnosis of congenital infection could not be confirmed because the isolation of T. cruzi was obtained only in later studies. In another 8 children grouped in GIII, it was impossible to detect parasitemia, and the diagnosis was reached by the serological positivity after six months of life. Finally, in 684 patients with anti-T. cruzi antibodies at birth, the serology became negative at the age of 3 months (GIV) or 6 months (GV). The methodology employed in this work is accessible to laboratories of medium complexity, and permits the diagnosis of congenital or neonatal chagasic infection with a high degree of reliability. On the other hand, it avoids unnecessary administration of trypanomicide drugs in a number of newborn and infants who have only received maternal antibodies at birth and were not infected by T. cruzi. PMID- 2518647 TI - The effect on marginal leakage when using two dentine adhesives in combination. AB - This study was undertaken to test the effectiveness of using two dentine adhesives in combination. One of the dentine adhesives used adhered to the calcium in the dentine while the other dentine adhesive adhered to the organic portion of the dentine. It was hoped by using them in combination that their actions would complement each other producing composite restorations with gap free margins. Results showed an increase in the number of gap free restorations but the marginal contraction gaps were not entirely eliminated. PMID- 2518648 TI - Termination of long term treatment in a residential home: quotas, conditions and additional comments. AB - The method of discharge of 235 children from a pedagogic-psychotherapeutic children's home between 1968 and 1987 was examined. The centre of interest were the terminations by the parents (13% of all discharges) and those brought about by the home itself (8%). The latter were partly those falsely admitted, some of these developed complications during a later stage in the treatment. The results indicate that the terminations by the parents were independent of age on admission, sex of the child and the type of disturbance involved. It was, however, noticible that parents of children with autistic disturbances and multiple partial performance deficiencies did not require early termination. An increase in parental termination was shown where individual limitations of parent child contact were implemented. Terminations by the home showed a systematic relationship to certain contraindications to institutionalized conditions of treatment. The introduction of parental participation in particular lead to a dramatic decrease in the total of all terminations. PMID- 2518650 TI - The ajmaline test as a method to disclose latent experimental Chagas' heart disease. AB - Forty-one chronically T. cruzi-infected male adult albino rats with normal resting ECG were submitted to the ajmaline test (1 mg/kg body weight injected into the dorsal vein of the penis). Twenty-one similar noninfected animals served as controls. Ajmaline induced the following ECG alterations in control rats: A decrease in heart rate, an increase in heart rate, an increase in P-wave duration, an increase in PR interval, lengthening of the QRS complex, and left axis deviation in 33%, 28%, 14%, 90%, 100%, and 33% of the animals, respectively. Ajmaline evoked similar alterations in 29 of 41 (71%) T. cruzi-infected rats. However, 12 of 41 (29%) infected rats showed ECG changes of a magnitude not seen in controls: P-wave enlargement, first-degree AV block, lengthened QRS complex, and first-degree AV block plus lengthened QRS complex in 7%, 12%, 14%, and 4% of the animals, respectively. Microscopical lesions were not found in control rats. However, 22 of 41 (53%) infected rats were found to have the following pathological lesions: mononuclear cell infiltrate, necrosis, myocyte vacuolization, and interstitial fibrosis in 56%, 39%, 29%, and 7% of the animals, respectively. By comparing the ECG changes evoked by ajmaline not seen in controls with the concomitant pathological lesions, the ajmaline test was found to have 54% sensitivity, 100% specificity, and 100% positive predictive value. Thus, the ajmaline test appears to be useful for unmasking myocardial disease and therefore may be considered a potential method for the full characterization of the indeterminate form of Chagas' disease in experimental animals. PMID- 2518649 TI - [Pragmatic data and observations related to the epidemiology of Chagas disease]. AB - Chagas' disease or American trypanosomiasis is a parasitic zoonosis which constitutes and important public health problem in most of the Latin American countries. According to the development of socio-political events in the world, it is possible at present to speak of rural-periurban Chagas' disease and urban Chagas' disease. Rural-periurban Chagas' disease. In its endemo-enzootic condition it is distributed in vast areas from Mexico in the north and Argentina and Chile in the south. It is calculated that the population at risk is about 90 million persons, not less than 16-18 million are Trypanosoma cruzi infected and approximately 38% of these present or have presented pathology caused by the parasite. Organs most frequently affected: heart, esophagus and colon. The corresponding biological vectors are hematophagus triatomid bugs, with greater than 100 species synantropic (st) or sylvatic (sv), existing between parallels 41 N. and 46 S., but only about 36, which have been found infected, have some relationship with man because their adaptation to human dwelling. The human parasitose is less extended due to the fact that the vectors of the region are predominantly sv. The known reservoirs are more than 180 species of terrestrial mammals: domestic, st and sv. Man is possibly the most important. Some available relevant epidemiological information is summarized as follows: Additionally, some autochthonous cases of T. cruzi human infection have been registered in the United States, Trinidad-Tobago, Guyana and Belize. Moreover, infected vectors and/or sv reservoirs have been observed in almost a dozen of Caribbean countries. Urban Chagas' disease. As a consequence of possible better salaries and many other motivations, in the last decades there have been significant and constant migrations from rural to urban areas in many Latin American countries. This situation has facilitated the dissemination of T. cruzi infection through infected reservoirs--mostly humans--and/or passively transported infected vectors. In most of the cases these rural-urban migrations occur in chagasic endemic areas within a same country or in neighbouring ones; in others, the migration can involve countries where Chagas' disease does not exist, transmission being via blood transfusion or placental. According to some estimates, with a mean rate of 1.5% chagasic infected blood donors the minimum risk of T. cruzi transmission is nearly 12.5-25.0% when the volumen of transfused blood is 500 ml.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2518652 TI - Life's quality: a major consideration in health care delivery--especially with hypertensive diseases. AB - The purposes of this paper are severalfold: a) to avoid a cloak of product inference; b) to focus attention on the need to keep patients on long-term (antihypertensive) therapy with as few side effects as possible; c) to acknowledge certain arguments relating to side effects, some of which have engendered concern among respected authorities in the field; d) to underscore the validity of current health care preoccupations relating to cost containment and cost effectiveness; and e) to question the wisdom of certain governments around the world in suggesting that low-cost antihypertensive medications that are already available should be used in preference to newer and more costly drugs no matter what the theoretical or clinical justification. PMID- 2518651 TI - ACE inhibitors compared with thiazide diuretics as first-step antihypertensive therapy. AB - While ACE inhibitors are considerably more expensive than thiazide diuretics, they are slightly more effective antihypertensive agents in white patients and have fewer side effects. They can be regarded as suitable first-line therapy in diabetic hypertensives. It is probable that as new drugs in this class are marketed, the price differential will lessen and they will be regarded as acceptable and useful first-line drugs in an increasingly large number of patients. PMID- 2518653 TI - The cost of new drugs in the treatment of hypertension--the Australian experience. AB - The treatment of hypertension by costly new drugs such as the angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, means that careful monitoring of health care expenditure is essential. If drugs like simvastatin come to be widely used, costs will mount even more. New drugs cannot be used indiscriminately. PMID- 2518654 TI - Treatment of hypertension based on both systolic and diastolic pressure could influence the cost of therapy. AB - The decision to start antihypertensive treatment is based on the statistical results of therapeutic trials done in large populations. The application of statistical estimations may extend the indications for antihypertensive therapy to individual subjects who might be marginally improved by antihypertensive treatment. This problem is due to the well-known heterogeneity of the hypertensive population. One of the most common factors reflecting the heterogeneity of this population is the level of systolic pressure versus that of diastolic pressure. Disproportionate increases in systolic pressure in patients over 50 years reflect principally the arterial changes associated with elevated blood pressure. Arterial changes, as evidenced by the decreased compliance of large arteries, may require a specific therapeutic approach, which could influence the choice and consequently the cost of antihypertensive therapy. PMID- 2518655 TI - Involvement of a common transcription factor in the regulated expression of IL-2 and IL-2 receptor genes. AB - Interleukin-2 (IL-2) plays an essential role in the clonal expansion of antigen activated T lymphocytes (T cells). In fact, the expression of both IL-2 and IL-2 receptor (IL-2R, p55, CD25) genes is transiently induced upon T cell activation through the interaction of antigen/major histocompatibility complex (MHC) and T cell receptor complex. To elucidate the mechanism(s) of the induced gene expression for IL-2 and IL-2R, we have investigated for the presence of potential transcription factors that specifically interact with regulatory cis-elements. Here, we demonstrate that one such factor mediates the induced expression of both genes. Interestingly, the recognition sequences by this factor are significantly diverse in these two genes and are related to those of immunoglobulin (Ig) kappa chain and MHC class I genes. We provide evidence that this factor indeed binds to the IL-2, IL-2R, and Ig sequence elements with different affinities, thereby affecting the magnitude of gene expression. Interestingly, this factor also binds to other cytokine genes, such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), interferon-gamma (IFN gamma), and HIV-1 and HTLV-1 LTR sequences. PMID- 2518657 TI - Preferential expansion of Ly-1 B and CD4- CD8- T cells in the polyclonal lymphocyte responses to murine T. cruzi infection. AB - Acute murine infection with T. cruzi results in polyclonal lymphocyte responses manifested by blast transformation of a large fraction of B, CD4+, and CD8+ cells. We describe here the finding of significant increases in the splenic representation of minor populations, Ly-1 + B cells and CD4-CD8- T cells. These lymphocyte populations might play an important role in the host response, as shown by T. cruzi infection of hosts that had been lethally irradiated and reconstituted with autologous bone marrow. Under these conditions, the splenic polyclonal PFC responses are nearly abrogated, and not restored by the transfer of syngeneic peritoneal cells which, however, reconstitute T15 idiotype production in the same hosts. Control levels of PFC responses, however, are reconstituted by transfer of syngeneic splenic T cells. Since bone marrow reconstituted animals contain normal numbers of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells which are actually activated by infection, these results suggest the participation of other T cell populations in the host response to infection, as also suggested by the marked increases in T cell receptor gamma and delta messages detected in the spleen of infected animals. The implications of these findings in immunopathology of Chagas' disease are discussed. PMID- 2518656 TI - Antigen presentation to specific T cells by Ia molecules selectively altered by site-directed mutagenesis. AB - A functional analysis of mutant class II molecules was conducted to identify regions important for antigen-specific T cell activation. Site-directed mutagenesis was used to construct a panel of mutant A beta k genes containing either single or multiple d allele substitutions in the beta 1 domain. The product of each of these genes was expressed with either the A alpha d or A alpha k polypeptide in the Ia-negative B cell lymphoma M12.C3. These mutant class II molecule-bearing cells were tested for their ability to present antigen to a panel of Ak-restricted T cell clones specific for various epitopes of myoglobin. Results from this analysis demonstrate that T helper clones recognized complex determinants interacting with multiple residues on the beta 1 domain and also requiring the haplotype-matched alpha 1 domain. This is in contrast to monoclonal antibodies that recognize a domain-specific, immunodominant region involving residues 40, 63, and 65-67. Every T helper clone was found to interact with a distinct pattern of residues, even among clones recognizing the same combination of peptide and major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecule. The 3 for 1 residue substitution between k and d alleles at residues 65-67 was one of the most important, because it resulted in loss of ability to present antigen to 7 of 7 I-Ak-restricted T cell clones. These residues have been shown previously to comprise the immunodominant allo-specific serological determinants and to stimulate some alloreactive T cell clones. Substitution at residues 12 and 13 also abrogated antigen presentation to all the T cell clones, but this may be a consequence of a conformational change due to altered alpha beta chain pairing. Substitution at position 9, which is predicted to be located in the floor of the peptide-binding groove where it should not interact directly with the T cell receptor, enhanced presentation of the antigenic site 102-118 to some T cells and diminished it to others. This finding suggests a most interesting conclusion that the same antigenic site may bind in different conformations or orientations to the same MHC molecule, although an indirect effect on the conformation of the MHC molecule itself cannot be excluded. Substitutions at residues 85, 86 and 88 also abrogated the response of one T cell clone but not others specific for the same peptide with the same Ia molecule.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2518658 TI - Interferon-gamma inhibits the proliferation but not the differentiation of murine B cells in response to IL-5. AB - Interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) is supposed to be produced by type 1 helper T cells (TH1) and inhibits IL-4-dependent B cell growth and differentiation. IL-5 (T cell replacing factor, TRF), is a T cell-derived lymphokine which is predominantly produced by type 2 helper T cells (TH2) and regulates proliferation and differentiation of activated B cells. In this study, the effect of IFN-gamma on IL-5-dependent B cell growth and differentiation has been studied using murine chronic B cell leukemic cells (BCL1), normal splenic B cells, and cloned early B cell line. IFN-gamma selectively inhibits the IL-5-mediated proliferation of activated B cells as well as cloned early B cell lines at a low concentration (2 U/ml) in which polyclonal IgM production was not affected. This inhibitory effect of IFN-gamma occurs within 24 h after the onset of culture, as demonstrated by the inability of antibody to IFN-gamma to reverse totally the IFN-gamma-mediated suppressive effects if it was added later than 24 h after the onset of the culture. On the contrary, IL-5-mediated IgM secretion of BCL1 and IgA formation of LPS-stimulated normal B cells were relatively resistant to the suppressive effect of IFN-gamma. IFN-gamma does not affect the receptor expression for IL-5. Interestingly, IL-4-mediated IgG1 formation of LPS-stimulated B cells was markedly suppressed by IFN-gamma at 10 U/ml. These results strongly suggest that IFN-gamma may have differential effects on IL-5-mediated B cell triggering. PMID- 2518660 TI - Assessment of protein-energy malnutrition in children and adolescents with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. AB - The incidence of protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) in juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) patients referred to a dietitian was compared with PEM in a nonreferred JRA population. One pediatric dietitian evaluated all 28 patients using a standardized, 11-parameter comprehensive nutritional assessment profile. Thirty-six percent (10) were found to have PEM (greater than or equal to 6 of 11 parameters abnormal as defined for this study), 36% (10) had no abnormal parameters, and 28% (8) had one-five abnormal parameters. Seventy percent (7 of 10) of the patients referred to a dietitian had PEM: 17% (3 of 18) of the nonreferred JRA patients had PEM. PEM was found in all onset types of JRA. In the ten patients with PEM, 80% had weight less than 5th percentile, 30% had heights less than 5th percentile, 50% had subnormal visceral proteins, 90% had subnormal somatic proteins, and none showed depletion of subcutaneous fat reserves. The high prevalence of PEM supports the need for greater involvement of pediatric dietitians in the evaluation and treatment of JRA patients. PMID- 2518659 TI - The human immunoglobulin C mu-C delta locus: complete nucleotide sequence and structural analysis. AB - The entire nucleotide sequence (approximately 20 kbp) spanning the human immunoglobulin IgM (mu) and IgD (delta) heavy chain constant region genes has been determined from DNA of mu-delta producing chronic lymphocytic leukemic B cells. As in the murine IgM + IgD double-producing B cells, no rearrangement has occurred in the C mu-C delta region in the leukemic cells. The C mu locus is highly conserved between mouse and human with the exception of the nucleotide sequence between the C mu 4 and mu M1 exons, which has diverged dramatically. The intergenic sequence between human C mu and C delta is three times larger than the analogous region in the mouse and contains notable features absent from the mouse, including a 443 bp segment that is 96% identical to a 442 bp sequence that occurs just 3' to the heavy chain enhancer, a 366 bp sequence that is directly repeated with 76% homology, and 12 tandem copies of a 35 bp sequence. The human C delta gene contains two additional exons relative to mouse C delta, but shares with the mouse the unique distal location of both secreted and membrane coding segments. Several polymorphisms in the human population have been identified in the intergenic region and in C delta but not in C mu. PMID- 2518661 TI - A field outbreak of chronic aflatoxicosis in dairy calves in the western Cape Province. AB - An outbreak of mortality in Friesland dairy calves in which 7 out of 25 calves died in the western Cape Province, Republic of South Africa is described. Clinical signs included a loss in body mass, staring hair coat, diarrhoea and rectal prolapse. Histopathological changes in the liver were characterised by severe portal fibrosis with bile duct proliferation and mild portal round cell infiltration. The calves were fed a ration containing locally-produced maize. The implicated maize was infested with Aspergillus flavus and contained aflatoxins B1, B2, G1 and G2 with total aflatoxin levels as high as 11,790 ng g-1. This is the first report of a field outbreak of bovine aflatoxicosis in South Africa. PMID- 2518663 TI - [Interrelationship between vitamin D intake and absorption and retention of calcium during nutritional recovery]. AB - We have previously reported that, in the first stages of nutritional recovery, the needs of undernourished infants, in terms of protein-calories percentage (P%) are higher than normal, producing an accelerated catch-up. Consequently, calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) balances increase proportionally to weight gain rate (WGR) in order to attain a normal body composition. As for the control of Ca metabolism by vitamin D, the question is whether vitamin D intake must also be increased during this accelerated catch-up growth period. In this report we have analysed retrospectively previous results in order to clarify the interrelationship between Ca absorption, Ca retention and vitamin D intake. A total of 29 undernourished infants, from 2 to 18 months of age, were fed Ad libitum with one of two proprietary milk formulas containing, per 100 g.: Ca, 0.50 and 1.17 g.; P, 0.37 and 0.50 g.; vitamin D, 350 and 400 UI (8.7 and 10 micrograms); proteins, 11.34 and 17.00 kcal/100 kcal of total diet, respectively. Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) of Ca and vitamin D, according to FAO/OMS and NRC, were calculated with reference to normal infants body weight and to 1000 kcal of recommended dietary energy intake. Ca intake was higher than the RDA and ranged between 60 and 413 mg/kg/day; intake of vitamin D increased proportionally to food intake; calcium absorption ranged between 40.0 and 92.0% (mean = 69.8 +/- 14.6) and CaB correlated with Ca intake (r = 0.97), being higher than normal.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2518662 TI - Dynamics of transmission of Trypanosoma cruzi in a rural area of Argentina. IV. Serologic, parasitologic and electrocardiographic study of the human population. AB - A serologic and electrocardiographic study was carried out in people living in 18 households in La Invernada (LI), Departamento Figueroa, and in 20 houses in Amama (A), Departamento Moreno, both in the province of Santiago del Estero, Argentina. Serological tests performed were indirect hemagglutination (IHAT) and indirect immunofluorescence antibody tests (IFAT). Complement fixation, direct agglutination and ELISA tests were also done for those sera, showing discordant results for either IHAT or IFAT. All people in LI and children up to 12 years old in A were studied by xenodiagnosis. Approximately 50% of the whole population was infected (50% in LI and 50.9% in A) and a similar prevalence rate was already recorded in children below 10 years. A moderate increase of infection rates was observed in successively older age groups, indicating that most of the people became infected in the first decade of life. Comparison of serological profiles of both populations suggests a protective effect of insecticidal control campaigns in those individuals born between 1961 and 1971. New surveys carried out in both populations 2 years later rendered a 4 times greater annual incidence rate in A as compared with LI (7.9% vs 1.8% respectively). No differences were found in the percentages of abnormal electrocardiograms among seropositive and seronegative individuals from both settlements. The prevalence of complete right bundle branch block (RBBB) was higher in seropositive than in seronegative people (4.8% vs 2.3%) but lower than those figures recorded for other parts of the country and the continent. This suggests that in spite of its high prevalence, Chagas' disease has low morbidity in both localities. PMID- 2518665 TI - [THyroliberin test in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis]. AB - Many hormonal dysfunctions were noticed in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The study aimed at measuring blood serum level of TSH and PRL after THR loading in 10 ALS patients and in the 10 healthy individuals. Mean baseline levels of TSH and PRL in ALS patients were with in normal range. After TRH loading, the TSH responses in the ALS patients were with in normal range, where as PRL responses were diminished. The obtained results could indicate some disorders on the dopaminergic neurons level. PMID- 2518664 TI - Inactivation of plasma alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor by acrolein: adduct formation with lysine and histidine residues. AB - Four new peaks were observed upon amino acid analysis of alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor (alpha 1-PI), which was inactivated by acrolein under in vitro conditions. The first peak emerged just before ammonia, the second and third between ammonia and lysine, and the fourth between histidine and arginine. The new fourth peak was also observed when model compounds of lysine (N-acetyllysine or polylysine) were reacted with acrolein and subsequently processed for amino acid analysis. This new compound was purified by high-voltage paper electrophoresis and subjected to fast atom bombardment mass spectrometry, which showed a protonated molecule ion at m/z 203 [M + H]+ followed by m/z 186 [M + H+ NH3]+. This compound was thus identified as 3-oxopropyllysine, a lysine adduct of acrolein. Similarly, when a model polypeptide of histidine, polyhistidine, was reacted with acrolein under the same conditions as alpha 1-PI, three new peaks (besides histidine) emerged from the column. Their elution times corresponded to the first three new peaks found in the hydrolysates of acrolein treated alpha 1 PI. PMID- 2518667 TI - [Effects of chronic ethanol intoxication on the evolution of experimental trypanosomiasis cruzi in mice]. AB - The effect of chronic ethyl alcohol intoxication on the evolution of Trypanosoma cruzi infection in mice was studied by two experimental procedures: (1) mice after 60 days of infection with a myotropic strain of T. cruzi were submitted to chronic alcoholic intoxidation receiving a 7% ethanol solution as only liquid source for six months; (2) mice chronically intoxicated with ethanol during five months were infected with the same strain of T. cruzi and were followed up for 45 days drinking the 7% alcoholic solution. In comparison with the infected group, not treated with ethanol, the infected mice that received the ethanol showed: a) similar mortality in the two experiments; (b) higher parasitemia in the acute phase and more frequent blood parasites in the chronic phase; (c) myocarditis with less severe cellular exudation but with increased fibrosis; (d) in the skeletal muscle, milder myositis and low frequency of arteritis and hyaline thrombi. PMID- 2518666 TI - [Results of using polyvalent Pseudomonas aeruginosa vaccine in children with burns by various medical centers]. AB - Polyvalent Pseudomonas aeruginosa vaccine, prepared at the Institute of Hematology from 10 hospital strains isolated from burn wounds, was administered to 32 children with extensive and deep burns. The vaccine was well tolerated. The vaccine produced a high degree of the immunity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection. Agglutinin serum titre increased significantly. Vaccination either prevented or inhibited the infection of burn wounds with Pseudomonas aeruginosa in all immunized children. The symptoms of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection usually disappeared following one or two vaccinations. Bacteriemia caused by P. aeruginosa was not observed in 31 out of 32 children. In the remaining child transient bacteriemia was noted. No septicemia caused by P. aeruginosa was seen. Due to the high efficiency of the polyvalent P. aeruginosa vaccine all burned children with burns exceeding 10% of the total body surface should by vaccinated to prevent the life-threatening infections with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. PMID- 2518669 TI - Sodium 2-mercaptoethanesulfonate in reversible adduct formation and water solubilization. AB - Sodium 2-mercaptoethanesulfonate (MESNA, coenzyme M) forms 1:1 covalent adducts with highly pi-electron deficient heterocycles. The addition is caused by the thiol function, and the adducts become water soluble as sulfonates. 1H NMR spectroscopy has been used to obtain information about electronic and steric effects on the equilibria between 2-pyrimidinones and their 1:1 MESNA adducts. The adducts are potential prodrugs for biologically interesting 2-pyrimidinones. PMID- 2518668 TI - [Prevalence of visceromegalies in necropsies carried out in Triangulo Mineiro from 1954 to 1988]. AB - One thousand seven hundred and eight chronic chagasic post-mortem examinations studied from a total of 4690 autopsies performed at our Institution. Two hundred and seventy-three chagasic had megas. Megacolon was the most frequent, followed by megaesophagus. Megacolon associated with megaesophagus was the third most common finding. Our data are discussed and compared with the literature. Megacolon and megaesophagus were more prevalent in man, as shown by other workers. Higher parasitemia perhaps could explain this finding. PMID- 2518670 TI - Zenker's diverticulum: a cause for complete esophageal obstruction and its management. AB - Besides the gastroenterologists, we as gastroenterology nurses and associates are probably the first line of help for patients with this disorder. By having a sound background knowledge of the mechanisms by which Zenker's diverticulum can occur and the possible complications that can arise, we can coordinate a task force of appropriate paramedical personnel: the nutritionist who can instruct the patient on good healthy dietetics, the social worker who may be able to arrange "meals on wheels," the physical therapist who can teach the patient to re-think the way he or she swallows and good deep breathing exercises. We can give our patients a sound understanding of their problem by educating them in language that they understand. By so doing we will be encouraging them in their own preventative measures to promote wellness, which is one of endoscopy's major aims in health care. PMID- 2518671 TI - Guidelines for nutrition support in AIDS. Task Force on Nutrition Support in AIDS. AB - The nutritional status of people with AIDS is challenged throughout the progression of the illness by the manifestation of symptoms such as malabsorption, diarrhea, candidiasis, and fever. As yet, there is no widely accepted method for nutritional management of AIDS. Therefore, a Task Force on Nutrition Support in AIDS was formed to develop practical recommendations for those involved in the management of this patient population. The "Guidelines for Nutrition Support in AIDS" are aimed at improving nutritional status, alleviating symptoms, and enhancing quality of life at each stage of the disease. The Task Force concluded that optimizing the nutritional status of people with AIDS, through aggressive nutritional therapy, is essential in overall medical management; nutrition intervention and education is indicated as early in the disease progression as HIV diagnosis; thorough nutritional assessment and regular monitoring is advocated; and enteral feedings should be considered the first line of nutrition support therapy. PMID- 2518672 TI - Effect of prednisone and heparin treatment in 14 patients with poor reproductive efficiency related to lupus anticoagulant. AB - In women with a previous intrauterine fetal death related to lupus anticoagulant (LAC), we studied the effect of prednisone and calcieparine treatment to enable longer intrauterine life, increased fetal growth and increased survival rate. LAC was determined by the kaolin clotting time and was associated with elevated levels of antinuclear and anticardiolipin antibody in 42% and 21% of the cases, respectively. 14 women entered the study; they had a past history of 27 pregnancies, with only 1 small-for-gestational age (SGA) liveborn. The mean gestational age at the time of fetal death was 30 +/- 4 weeks. During index pregnancies, we observed 2 miscarriage, 9 liveborns (6 of appropriated gestational weight, 3 SGA) and a mean gestational age of 35 +/- 3 weeks. The mean decrease in fetal weight from the 50th percentile in previous pregnancies was 44%, and with treatment this was reduced to 12%. All these differences were statistically significant. We conclude that prednisone and heparin treatment can improve reproductive prognosis in fertile patients with LAC. PMID- 2518673 TI - [Immaturity of syncytial trophoblast in maternal malnutrition. Ultrastructural analysis]. AB - We studied the placental membrane at term in normal females and females with malnutrition not related to associated pathologic processes of pregnancy. Both groups belonged in the low socioeconomic stratum. The fetal aspect of placenta from malnourished females showed signs of immaturity in relation to gestational age, as evidenced by transitional cytotrophoblastic cells in different stages of maturation. The latter appear as a third intermediata layer between cytothropoblast and syncitiotrophoblast. PMID- 2518674 TI - Technical aspects of isolation extremity perfusion: experimental studies and clinical experience. AB - In experiments with dogs (n = 68), the influence of temperature, flow rate, perfusate, and perfusion duration on the hind leg subjected to an isolation perfusion was studied. The perfusion pressure, the blood gases, and the metabolic status in specimens of skeletal muscle obtained at the end of the perfusion period served as parameters. A perfusion of 1 and 2 h with whole blood, a flow rate of 10 mL/10 g/min, and temperatures of up to 42 degrees C did not result in alterations of the energy metabolism. When the flow rate was lowered to 5 mL/100 g/min, when other perfusates were used, or when the in temperature was raised to 43.5 degrees C, then tissue damage occurred. Knowledge gained in these experiments was utilized in the treatment of 371 patients with malignancies of the extremities, and an extremely low complication rate was observed. PMID- 2518675 TI - Test models to determine potential ocular drug induced side effects. PMID- 2518676 TI - [Effect of neurohormones on the secretion of hormones of the anterior pituitary gland]. PMID- 2518678 TI - [Primary bladder diverticula. Study of 47 cases]. AB - We report on 47 patients, surveyed and treated by us, diagnosed of primary vesical diverticula, having thus excluded all those secondary to lower obstructive anomalies, such as urethral valves and neurogenic bladder. Only seven out of the 47 patients were females: two of them had a iatrogenic cause and the remainder were of small size and associated with vesicoureteral reflux. All the cases have been documented by means of an intravenous pyelography (IVP), an excretory cystogram and a voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG). Many diverticula may go unnoticed when screened by IVP, whereas the cystogram and preferentially the VCUG are a 100 for 100 diagnostic. A 45 for 100 of these children (22 cases) had an attendant reflux and 23 for 100 (11 cases) had some other concomitant renal disease. Three further cases were iatrogenic, as a result of the methods employed for antireflux ureteral reimplantation. A 77 for 100 of the patients had urinary tract infection demonstrated by a urinary sediment and a positive culture. Surgery was performed on 34 patients, the indication being made on the basis of the big size of the diverticulum, its clinical repercussion, or because of its association with vesicoureteral reflux or any other kidney malformation. We employ an intravesical approach for the small diverticula with attendant reflux, but for resection of the sizeable ones, irrespective of the existence of reflux, we prefer the combined extra and intravesical approach, which allows a most accurate extravesical dissection, as well as the recognition and control of the ureter and the deferes duct, structures both that are usually anatomically distorted. PMID- 2518677 TI - [Ossification after transplantation of model cartilage in the rat patella]. AB - The cartilage model of the rat's patella constitutes a formation susceptible of inducing ossification, following its transplantation in a variety of sites (muscle, thyroid, testis, ovary, anterior chamber of the eye, etc.), including those considered inappropriate in other experiments of induced ossification (liver, kidney). So we have an experimental model allowing the influence on the osteogenesis of various factors, local or general, natural or experimental, to be studied. Ossification occurs in this model only in cases of histocompatibility between donor and recipient. It is constant after autotransplantation or isotransplantation. It is never seen after heterotransplantation. In cases of homotransplantation its frequency varies: this is not influenced by the technical conditions of implantation but by tissue compatibility and the age of the animals giving and receiving. A private perichondrium cartilage retains its osteogenic potency. A cartilage killed by alcohol or cold no longer demonstrates its osteoformative capacities, even when put into contact with a living cartilage. Our findings are difficult to reconcile with the hypotheses invoking the osteogenic potency of the periosteum, or the intervention of substances either inducing osteoformation or inhibiting vascular invasion, for the explanation of endochondral ossification. However, they lead one to the opinion that chondrocytes play an active role in its release. PMID- 2518679 TI - The effect of nitroglycerin ointment on exercise-induced angina: a multicenter trial. AB - The efficacy of nitroglycerin ointment was determined by treadmill exercise testing through a randomized, double-blind crossover trial with placebo in 22 patients with chronic stable exertional angina. On different days, 3 cm of nitroglycerin ointment (NGO, 18 mg) and placebo ointment were applied over the epigastric region, followed by the exercise test 1 hour later. The maximal exercise time was 459 +/- 124 seconds after application of placebo and 510 +/- 113 seconds after application of NGO, and the exercise time to 1 mm of ST-segment depression was significantly extended to 297 +/- 110 seconds after placebo and 366 +/- 134 seconds after NGO (p less than 0.01, p less than 0.001, respectively). ST-segment depression at the endpoint of exercise was significantly reduced from 2.4 +/- 1.2 mm to 1.5 +/- 0.7 mm after application of NGO (p less than 0.01). There was no difference in rate-pressure product at the endpoint of exercise between placebo and NGO. Adverse reactions were elicited in 5 of 22 patients. The results of this present study suggest that NGO is effective in the treatment of exertional angina. PMID- 2518680 TI - Encainide. AB - Encainide is a class IC antiarrhythmic agent having little or no effect on action potential duration or maximum diastolic potential but decreasing the maximum rate of phase O depolarization as well as increasing atrial and ventricular effective refractory periods. In intact animals or humans, encainide increases the AH, PR, QRS, and H-V intervals while not affecting the sinus node cycle length or JT interval. QT interval increases only by the concomitant increase in the QRS interval. Encainide is metabolized to O-demethyl encainide (ODE) and 3-methoxy ODE (MODE), both of which are also antiarrhythmics with similar pharmacology to encainide. Encainide and its metabolites have little negative inotropic activity and ancillary pharmacology. Consequently, encainide has little or no effect on hemodynamic variables in patients with either normal or compromised cardiac function. The drug is well tolerated, with side effects being mainly those associated with its local anesthetic activity such as blurred vision and dizziness. Encainide is particularly effective in patients with excessive premature ventricular complexes (PVCs) and less so in patients with sustained ventricular tachycardia (VT). Like all antiarrhythmics, encainide may aggravate or precipitate new arrhythmias (proarrhythmia). The overall incidence of proarrhythmia is about 10%, with less occurring in patients with PVCs and more in those with sustained VT; also, the incidence of proarrhythmia is higher in patients with underlying heart disease. Encainide is also effective for the treatment of supra-ventricular arrhythmias, including atrial fibrillation, PSVT (both PAF as well as reentry of the nodal or W-P-W type), and ectopic atrial tachycardia. Its dosage and role in antiarrhythmic therapy are discussed. PMID- 2518681 TI - Should the costs of development inhibit research into new antihypertensive drugs? AB - Although hypertensive therapy has had spectacular successes, there is now an important trend away from mere control of blood pressure to the attempt to normalize the cardiac and vascular accompaniments of the disease, such as left ventricular hypertrophy and medial hypertrophy of resistance arterioles. New agents may need to be developed to cope with these specific aims. The costs of development should not inhibit these important goals. PMID- 2518683 TI - The structure and function of the fos proto-oncogene. PMID- 2518682 TI - Cost of antihypertensive treatment: a point of view from India. AB - In India, expenditure on the treatment of all patients with mild hypertension is not cost effective. Nonpharmacologic treatment is encouraged. PMID- 2518684 TI - Tumor-suppressor genes of Drosophila melanogaster. PMID- 2518685 TI - fos-jun Conspiracy: implications for the cell. AB - Two nuclear oncoproteins, fos and jun (AP-1), cooperate in forming a very stable heterodimeric complex that binds to the AP-1 site with increased affinity. The 'leucine zipper' domain of both fos and jun is necessary for the formation of this heterodimer. Mutations of single residues within the leucine zipper domain had no effect on protein complex formation. However, mutagenesis of the first leucine of the heptad repeat in either fos or jun basic regions and alteration of the spacing between the basic and leucine zipper domains indicate that the basic region of fos has a crucial role in determining the DNA binding affinity of the transcriptional complex. Mutations of the basic amino acids in fos protein prevent binding to TPA (phorbol ester)-responsive element (TRE) in the presence of wild-type jun protein. Thus fos protein appears to be dominant in jun-fos binding to DNA, even though fos alone cannot bind to TRE. Mutants in the basic regions of fos and jun can be exploited as dominant-negative mutants to ablate their normal cellular function. PMID- 2518686 TI - Transformation suppressor genes. AB - Flat revertants with reduced malignancy in vivo can be isolated from Kirsten sarcoma virus-transformed NIH3T3 cells following transfection with a normal human fibroblast cDNA expression library. We have recovered from one such revertant a 1.8 kb cDNA clone, "Krev-1", that possesses revertant-inducing activity in transfection assay. The Krev-1 cDNA has the capacity to encode a protein with a calculated molecular weight of 21,000 having strong structural similarity to ras proteins (ca. 50% homology), especially in their GTP/GDP-binding, effector binding and membrane attachment domains. Point-mutations of Krev-1 protein at the 12th and the 59th amino acid positions from the aminoterminus potentiated the transformation suppressor activity by 2-5 times, and point-mutations within the putative effector-binding domain and at the C-terminal acylation site reduced the activity. PMID- 2518687 TI - Molecular mechanisms of malignant conversion in skin carcinogenesis. AB - The elucidation of the cellular and molecular events involved in progressive stages of malignant transformation has been enhanced by the development of new in vitro and in vivo model systems. In the model of chemically induced mouse skin tumors, multiple benign squamous papillomas precede the development of an occasional squamous cell carcinoma. The incidence of carcinomas can be substantially enhanced by treating papilloma-bearing mice with mutagens such as urethane, nitroquinoline-N-oxide, or cisplatinum suggesting that a distinct genetic event is responsible for malignant conversion. The malignant phenotype is characterized by a marked reduction in the transcription of specific epidermal differentiation markers, a pattern which is useful for the early diagnosis of malignant conversion. Cells expressing a benign phenotype can be obtained by introducing the v-ras oncogene into primary epidermal cells or by culturing cells from benign tumors induced by chemical carcinogens in vivo. Benign epidermal tumor cells in culture are good recipients for exogenous DNA and can be used to detect genes involved in malignant conversion. Transfection studies reveal that transforming constructs of the fos oncogene induce malignant conversion, whereas myc and adenovirus E1A oncogenes do not. Malignant tumors induced by fos transfection do not express differentiation-specific epidermal markers and secrete transin and urokinase, proteases characteristic of malignant skin tumors. Introduction of v-ras and v-fos oncogenes into cultured normal epidermal cells is sufficient to produce the malignant phenotype. Alone the v-fos oncogene does not detectably alter the normal phenotype of recipient cells. These studies imply that a limited number of genetic changes is sufficient to produce squamous malignancies.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2518688 TI - The transgenic window on lymphoid malignancy. AB - Transgenic mice bearing an oncogene targetted for expression in a specific tissue can reveal how that oncogene influences differentiation and help to delineate the pathways to malignancy. To explore lymphoid neoplasia, we have made strains of transgenic mice bearing different oncogenes driven by the immunoglobulin heavy chain enhancer (E mu), which promotes expression within lymphocytes and certain myeloid cells. The prototype E mu-myc mice succumb to pre-B and B cell lymphomas, following a preneoplastic phase in which cycling pre-B cells are overproduced. The similar fate of E mu-N-myc mice suggests that N-myc and myc have overlapping functions. Surprisingly, E mu-N-ras mice develop T lymphomas and macrophage tumours but no B lineage tumours; thus the ability of ras to initiate tumorigenesis may be lineage specific. Similarly, the high predisposition of E mu v-abl mice to develop plasmacytomas may indicate that v-abl is oncogenic only at certain stages of B cell maturation. The bcl-2 gene promotes cell survival rather than proliferation, and E mu-bcl-2 mice produce copious resting B lymphocytes. The random onset and monoclonality of tumours in the transgenic strains argues for spontaneous genetic alterations that cooperate with the trans-oncogene. Indeed, most plasmacytomas of E mu-v-abl mice bear spontaneous myc rearrangements. Moreover, a minority of E mu-myc B lymphomas exhibit ras mutation, and the tumorigenesis can be reconstructed by crossing E mu-myc and E mu-ras mice, or by retroviral delivery of v-ras or v-raf, either in vitro or in vivo. To access novel cooperating oncogenes, we are using a retrovirus lacking an oncogene as an insertional mutagen. This approach should be applicable to any trans-oncogenic strain and help to delineate the genetic events that trigger malignant clones. PMID- 2518689 TI - Kinetics and thermodynamics of the reaction of deoxyhemerythrin with nitric oxide. AB - Deoxyhemerythrin reacts with NO to form a 1:1 adduct shown spectrophotometrically. The kinetics of the formation have been studied directly by stopped-flow measurements at four different temperatures (0.0-23.6 degrees C). The kinetics of the dissociation have been studied, also by stopped-flow techniques, at five different temperatures (4.0-35.1 degrees C) using three different scavengers [Fe(II)(edta)2-, O2 and sperm whale deoxymyoglobin], which gave similar values. For the formation kf = (4.2 +/- 0.2) x 10(6) M-1 s-1, delta Hf not equal = 44.3 +/- 2.3 kJ mol-1, delta Sf not equal to = 30 +/- 8 J mol-1 K 1 and for the dissociation kd = 0.84 +/- 0.02 s-1, delta Hd not equal to 95.6 +/- 2.1 kJ mol-1 delta Sd not equal to = 74 +/- 7 J mol-1 K-1 (25 degrees C, I = 0.2 M and pH 7-8.1). From the kinetic data the thermodynamic data for the formation of HrNO were calculated: Kf = (5.0 +/- 0.3) x 10(6) M-1, delta H = -51.3 +/- 3.1 kJ mol-1 and delta S = -44 +/- 11 J mol-1 K-1 (25 degrees C). The kinetic data suggest that NO occupies the same iron(II) site in deoxyhemerythrin as oxygen does. The equilibrium constant for the formation of Fe(II)(edta)(NO)2- has been redetermined: K1 = (1.45 +/- 0.07) x 10(7) M-1, delta H = -77.5 +/- 1.5 kJ and mol-1 and delta S = -123.5 J mol-1 K-1 (25 degrees C). PMID- 2518690 TI - Jun and v-jun contain multiple regions that participate in transcriptional activation in an interdependent manner. AB - Transcription factor AP1 is a heteromeric complex composed of the Jun and Fos proteins. It has been shown that by associating with Jun, Fos increases Jun's ability to bind DNA and activate transcription. To determine the roles of the two proteins, we undertook the functional analysis described here. We show that both the cellular Jun and its viral counterpart, v-Jun, are efficient transcriptional activators even in the absence of Fos. The Jun proteins contain at least three separate regions responsible for transcriptional activation in F9 cells, which act in an additive manner. All of these regions contain several acidic amino acid residues that appear to be functionally important and interact with a titratable target. Although trans-activation by Fos was previously shown to be dependent on the presence of Jun, by fusing Fos to a heterologous DNA-binding domain we show that once given the ability to bind DNA on its own, Fos is also an independent trans-activator. Both Jun and Fos contribute to trans-activation by the AP1 complex, and the augmentation of Jun activity by Fos is probably due to the increased DNA-binding activity of the Jun:Fos heterodimer. PMID- 2518691 TI - Activation of the interleukin-2 receptor alpha gene: regulatory role for DNA protein interactions flanking the kappa B enhancer. AB - The human interleukin-2 receptor alpha (IL2R alpha) gene is transcriptionally activated by both phorbol esters and the HTLV-I trans-activator (Tax) protein through a mechanism that involves the interaction of inducible DNA binding proteins with a kappa B-like enhancer element (-267 to -256). Using mutated IL2R alpha promoter constructs in transient transfection and DNA binding assays, we now demonstrate that sequences located immediately upstream and downstream of the kappa B enhancer also contribute to the regulation of IL2R alpha gene expression. One upstream sequence termed UE-1 is preferentially required for phorbol ester relative to Tax-induced activation and specifically interacts with a constitutively expressed 56-kD cellular factor. In contrast, two overlapping downstream elements between nucleotides -252 and -239 appear to be required for both phorbol ester and Tax-induced activation. One of these elements, an Sp1-like sequence, binds a constitutively expressed 100-kD T-cell protein consistent in size with Sp1 isolated from HeLa cells. The second element, located between the kappa B and Sp1 sites, resembles the decanucleotide core of the serum response element (SRE) from the c-fos gene and interacts with a constitutively expressed factor. Together, these findings implicate a functional role for multiple constitutively expressed DNA binding proteins, in addition to the inducible kappa B-specific factors, in the overall regulation of IL2R alpha gene activation. PMID- 2518692 TI - Effects of halogenated hydrocarbons on rumen microorganisms. AB - Halogenated hydrocarbons such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB's), heptachlor (HEP), 1,1,1-trichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)-ethane (DDT), and pentachlorophenol (PCP) are environmental contaminants and, at times, can bioaccumulate in the food chain. Cattle have been contaminated in a variety of ways, but generally it is believed that they are only affected by high concentrations of the chemicals. Rumen microorganisms, however, may be affected at lower doses, thus possibly affecting the cow's growth and milk production. Polychlorinated biphenyls, HEP, DDT, and PCP were tested by a 1-stage in vitro fermentation procedure. Substrate utilization was determined by measuring percent dry matter disappearance. Four concentrations (0, 10, 50, and 100 ppm) were studied, and in vitro incubations were conducted for 24 and 48 hr. Samples were removed from 48-hr incubations to determine if the chlorinated hydrocarbons were metabolized during fermentation. Dry matter disappearance proved to be a reliable method to determine microbial activity in the presence of chemicals. Substrate dry matter disappearance for controls and all concentrations of PCB's, HEP, and DDT was approximately 50 and 80% at 24 and 48 hr, respectively. The PCP significantly (P less than 0.05) depressed the percent dry matter disappearance in 50- and 100-ppm cultures to 45 and 30% at 24 hr and 70 and 50% at 48 hr, respectively. Metabolic changes in the test chemicals were not detected by gas chromatographic analysis. PMID- 2518693 TI - A serological survey of Ehrlichia canis, Ehrlichia equi, Rickettsia rickettsii, and Borrelia burgdorferi in dogs in Oklahoma. AB - Serum samples from 259 dogs were tested for antibodies to Ehrlichia canis, Ehrlichia equi, Rickettsia rickettsii, and Borrelia burgdorferi using the indirect fluorescent antibody test. The sera were obtained from submissions to the Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory during a 14-month period from June 1986 through July 1987. The rate for positive antibody titers to E. canis was 53%, to E. equi was 33%, to R. rickettsii was 38%, and to B. burgdorferi was 18%. Higher percentages of sera serologically positive to E. canis were found in the spring through the fall months, but there were no seasonal variations for E. equi, R. rickettsii, and B. burgdorferi. There was no consistent pattern of titers to the 4 antigens when age-groups of the dogs were compared. Forty-four different breeds were tested. PMID- 2518694 TI - Besnoitiasis in Indiana opossums. PMID- 2518695 TI - Comparison of three culture techniques for the isolation of Brucella abortus from bovine supramammary lymph nodes. AB - Three different culturing techniques were compared and evaluated to determine the most effective method for isolating Brucella abortus from bovine supramammary lymph nodes (SM's). In method I, the SM was sliced in half, and the inner surface was minced finely with a sterile scalpel. The minced surface was spread onto the agar surface of 4 selective media. In method II, the SM was cut into small pieces and placed in a bag with a volume of phosphate-buffered saline equal to the volume of the lymph node. The bag was placed in a laboratory blender and the SM was macerated for 5 min. The tissue suspension was spread with a sterile cotton swab onto the agar surface of 4 selective media. In method III, the SM was processed in the laboratory blender. One milliliter of the suspension was pipetted into a flask of biphasic medium, and 2 ml of the suspension was pipetted into another flask of biphasic medium. A total of 626 SM's from 285 cows were cultured. Brucella abortus was isolated from 149 (52.3%) cows by 1 or more methods. Brucella abortus was isolated from 136 cows by method I. 137 cows by method II, and 86 cows by method III. Nine (3.2%) cows were positive by method I only, 11 (3.9%) cows by method II only, and 2 (0.7%) cows by method III only. The isolation rate for method III was significantly lower than for method I or II. There was no significant difference between methods I and II. PMID- 2518697 TI - Lactobacillus acidophilus peritonitis in CAPD. PMID- 2518696 TI - In vitro study of the flush effect in two reusable continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) disconnect systems. AB - Previously published in vitro results, confirmed by clinical studies, indicate that the use of a flush significantly reduces peritonitis in single-use and reusable continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) systems. Since reusable systems may use the flush plus inline disinfectant between exchanges, the question remains as to whether or not the flush could be used alone in all disconnect systems. Using an in vitro model, we evaluated the flush in two reusable disconnect systems that use both flush and disinfectant in vivo. In a series of twenty sets per organism per incubation (0 h and 10 h), Y sets were inoculated in the lumen with three pure cultures (10(3) CFU range). Ability of flush without disinfectant to clear sets of contamination was analyzed by collecting multiple samples at each step of the procedure, enriching with tryptone broth and verifying bacterial growth. When contaminated sets were not incubated, flush efficacy of the systems was consistent with previous data showing 100% removal of Staphylococcus epidermidis, but only partial elimination of Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. After incubation, simulating reusable systems, the flush was able to eliminate S. epidermidis less than 50% of the time. There was no significant difference in results between the two systems tested. Reusable systems allow more contact time between bacteria and plastic resulting in reduced flush efficacy suggesting that, for safest conditions, they should be used with inline disinfectants. PMID- 2518698 TI - Evaluation of nutritional status in patients on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). AB - We designed this study to evaluate the nutritional conditions of 16 continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) patients. In all these patients we did a monthly 1-day clinical, anthropometrical, biochemical, and nitrogen balance evaluation: a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 9 monthly evaluations in all patients. The results were analyzed in two groups: Group I (N = 8) with neutral or positive nitrogen balances, and Group II (N = 8) with one or more negative nitrogen balances. The sex distribution, mean age in years, time on CAPD, and period of study in this protocol were similar in both groups. Group I maintained a positive nitrogen balance and steady values in the anthropometric measurements (triceps fat fold, upper-arm circumference, body weight). Group II showed a significant decrease in both the anthropometric values and the nitrogen balance during the episodes of peritonitis. In this same group, when peritonitis subsided, the protein intake increased, nitrogen balance became positive, and the anthropometric values improved. When all the nutritional evaluations were analyzed we found a significant and direct linear correlation between nitrogen intake and nitrogen balance in g/kg/day (N = 60; nitrogen balance = nitrogen intake x 0.75 - 0.101; r = 0.71; p less than 0.001). We also contrasted the presence of peritonitis with the nitrogen balance and the anthropometric values using Spearman rank correlation coefficient and obtained a very high correlation (0.997 to 0.999). Blood values (blood urea, serum creatinine, serum phosphate, serum potassium, and hemoglobin) were not very sensitive to detect differences within or between groups along the study.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2518699 TI - A study on the inhibition of aflatoxin B1 induced hepatocarcinogenesis by the Rhizopus delemar. AB - The effect of Rhizopus delemar on the carcinogenicity in rats of Aflatoxin B1 was studied. The Aflatoxin B1 was administered in free drinks to each male wistar rat at 126 micrograms per week such that a total dose of 3.40 mg was given over a period of 27 weeks. The culture abstract of Rhizopus delemar was added simultaneously to a group of these rats by mixing the Aflatoxin B1 solution. Animals were killed separately during 18th, 30th, 38th and 52nd week. Liver cell altered foci and neoplasms were qualified by using light microscopic and electromicroscopic morphology, by the morphometry and by the enzymic reactions. In the group of Aflatoxin B1 the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma was 71%. In the group receiving Rhizopus delemar together with Aflatoxin B1, the hyperplastic foci and pathological enzymic foci were decreased at all times pointed and atd at termination, and in none of the rats had liver neoplasms appeared. The result of this experiment showed that the Rhizopus delemar has intensive capacity in inhibiting the toxic damage and carcinogenicity of the liver by the Aflatoxin B1, because it is not only able to postpone the appearance of altered foci and to control their development but also to accelerate their withdraw in advance. The Rhizopus delemar can be used as a feasible and efficacious means to control the intoxication of Aflatoxin B1. PMID- 2518700 TI - [Thyroid plasmacytoma with amyloid deposits. Report of a case and review of the literature]. PMID- 2518701 TI - [Q fever, aortic insufficiency, hypersplenism and monoclonal gammapathy]. PMID- 2518702 TI - [Intensive nutrition in ulcerative colitis. Influence on postoperative morbimortality]. AB - Out of 103 consecutive patients with ulcerative cholitis, 37 required surgery. We compared perioperative morbidity and mortality in 18 patients receiving intensive nutritional care with 9 controls. An increase in serum albumin form 2.8 +/- 0.5 to 3.4 +/- 0.4 mg/dl (p less than 0.01) and lymphocytes from 1210 +/- 614 to 1736 +/- 770 (p less than 0.05) was observed in the first group, but not in the second. No deaths, shorter hospital stay and fewer complications were observed in the first group. We conclude that intensive nutritional care should be routinely used in patients with severe ulcerative cholitis requiring surgery. PMID- 2518703 TI - [Fast identification of Streptococcus pyogenes serotype M.12 in throat swabs by an improvised coagglutination technique]. AB - A rapid procedure for identification of Streptococcus pyogenes serotype M. 12 directly in throat swabs, is reported and compared with standard culture method on blood agar plates and typing of group A Streptococci isolated, with double gel immuno-diffusion. This procedure consist of chlorhydric acid extraction of swabs and testing of the extract towards specific M. 12 protein serum using extemporaneous coagglutination technique. We have tested 1100 throat swabs, with this procedure and with standard culture procedure. Identification of group A Streptococci serotype M. 12 with reported method is obtainable within 30 to 45 minutes of receipt of the clinical specimen. This method is easy to perform, with a sensitivity and a specificity respectively: 89.7% and 98.8%. PMID- 2518704 TI - Determination of encainide and its metabolites by high-performance liquid chromatography. AB - Encainide (ENC) and its metabolites O-demethylencainide (ODE), 3-methoxy-O demethylencainide (MODE), N-demethylencainide (NDE) and bis-N,O-demethylencainide (NODE) have been measured by two HPLC procedures. The method of Mayol using a mu Porasil column with ethanol-water-methanesulphonic acid as mobile phase was not able to separately measure NODE and NDE in plasma. A new method is described using a mu Bondapak Phenyl column with acetonitrile-phosphate buffer (0.05 M, pH 7.5) that yields satisfactory separation of ENC and its metabolites. NODE was not identified as a metabolite in 23 patients analysed. PMID- 2518705 TI - Elevated IgG antibody to Sarcocystis cruzi associated with eosinophilic myositis in cattle. AB - Blood sera, skeletal muscle, and cardiac muscle from 24 bovine carcasses condemned for eosinophilic myositis by US Department of Agriculture meat inspection veterinarians were compared with similar specimens from 35 random carcasses passed for human consumption. Fluorescence values determined by using a fluorometric immunoassay system were used to measure the specific antibodies to Sarcocystis cruzi. The values were significantly elevated in carcasses condemned for eosinophilic myositis as compared to carcasses passed for human consumption. The elevated fluorescence values appeared to be more than coincidental, suggesting that S. cruzi may be a causative agent of eosinophilic myositis. Microscopic examination of affected muscle revealed lesions typical of eosinophilic myositis. Lesions were characterized by extensive multifocal areas of myofiber hyaline degeneration, necrosis with sarcoplasmic fragmentation, mineralization of occasional myofibers, and atrophy of fibers with varied stages of fibrosis. Inflammatory cell exudates were predominantly eosinophils, with some macrophages and lymphocytes, and extravasated erythrocytes within, and adjacent to, affected myofibers. Affected muscles contained more S. cruzi than unaffected muscle from passed carcasses. However, a distinct cause and effect relationship could not be determined between the parasite and the presence of eosinophilic myositis. PMID- 2518706 TI - First trimester maternal serum lysosomal enzymes: implications for carrier testing and prenatal diagnosis. AB - Carrier detection for lysosomal storage diseases is sometimes possible by evaluating maternal serum levels of specific enzymes. However, lysosomal enzymes (LE) can be modified by maternal hormonal changes in pregnancy or embryonic contributions. Maternal serum was obtained prospectively in the follicular phase and at 2-5 and 7-11 weeks after conception from 13 infertility patients with precisely known ovulation dates. Eleven enzyme activities were determined fluorimetrically using 4-methylumbelliferyl substrates. Using repeated measures ANOVA, alpha-N-acetyl-glucosaminidase (p less than 0.05), hexosaminidase A (p less than 0.005) and hexosaminidase A and B (p less than 0.005) increased during the first trimester, and 8 enzymes did not change significantly. Our data show differing patterns of LE in the first trimester. These may be explained by: (1) variability of maternal reaction to hormonal changes of pregnancy, or (2) variable embryonic contributions suggesting differential ontogeny and placental transfer of these enzymes. The increase in levels of the 3 specific LE in maternal serum may interfere with the accuracy of carrier testing in early pregnancy, but pregnancy should not interfere with the other 8. PMID- 2518707 TI - Detection of human and marmoset immunoglobulin heavy chain by a polyclonal antiserum to a marmoset immunoglobulin-related T cell product. AB - We show that a polyclonal rabbit antiserum raised against a purified monoclonal T cell component from a lower primate (cotton-topped marmoset) reacts by immunoblot transfer (Western Blot analysis) with serum immunoglobulin of man and marmoset. The antigenic component had an approximate mass of 68 kilodaltons and was isolated by immune-affinity chromatography from culture fluid in which the marmoset T cell leukemia 70-N2 had been grown. The reaction with human serum immunoglobulin is with a subset of the IgG molecules and is localized to the gamma heavy chain. The reaction with marmoset serum immunoglobulin is predominantly directed against the heavy chain, but slight reactivity is also noted against the light chains. These results substantiate reports of serological cross-reactions between immunoglobulin-like T cell receptors and classical immunoglobulins and illustrate the similarity between immunoglobulins of man and those of a distantly related New World primate. PMID- 2518708 TI - Genetic polymorphism of IgG in the mink. V. Two new genetic markers of the lambda light chains of mink immunoglobulins, L4 and L5. AB - Two new allotypes of the light (L) chains IgG, L4 and L5, were identified in the mink with dispecific antiserum produced by immunization with allogenic IgG. By means of hybrid IgG molecules and proteolytic fragments, L4 and L5 were localized on the C region of the L chain. L4 and L5 occurred frequently in the three mink populations studied and L4 and L5 are inherited independently of the known mink C gamma allotypes. L4 and L5 are encoded by closely linked genes. The antigenic specificities of L4 and L5 were not identified in the closely related Mustelidae and in the other mammalian representatives. Consequently, L4 and L5 are species specific to mink. Determination of the phenotype combinations of the five allotypes on the L chains (including the new L4 and L5) demonstrated the existence of seven combinations only with a predominance of L1,2,3; L4,5, and L1,2,3,4,5 phenotypes. Based on the results obtained, it is concluded that the mink C lambda locus has a complex organization. A model for the mink C lambda locus with at least three or possibly five linked genes is suggested. PMID- 2518709 TI - Multiple determinants of eukaryotic mRNA stability. AB - Regulated changes in mRNA stability play an important role in modulating the level of expression of many eukaryotic genes. In several systems, specific sequence determinants that dictate mRNA instability have been identified. Thus, the presence of instability determinants, and not the absence of sequences that dictate stability, appears to be required for regulated mRNA degradation. These instability determinants presumably interact with specific nucleases or other trans-acting factors that regulate the accessibility of the domain to nucleases. Although each RNA destabilization pathway has unique features, in many cases RNA degradation requires ongoing protein synthesis. In some of the systems discussed, the mRNAs are degraded co-translationally, perhaps by a ribosome-associated ribonuclease. For other messages, the mechanistic reasons for the dependence of mRNA degradation on ongoing protein synthesis are still unknown. PMID- 2518711 TI - Selenalysine transamination by a bovine brain enzyme. AB - Selenalysine is deaminated by glutamine transaminase from bovine brain, leading to the production of the corresponding alpha-ketoacid, which spontaneously cyclizes to a ketimine form. Selenalysine shows a good affinity for the enzyme. PMID- 2518710 TI - Diagnostic and clinically important aspects of cyanobacterial (blue-green algae) toxicoses. PMID- 2518712 TI - [Natural feeding, an important factor in reducing the index of infant mortality]. PMID- 2518713 TI - [The monitoring of cardiovascular patients with severe arrhythmias]. PMID- 2518714 TI - [The therapeutic performance of paramedical personnel in hemorrhages]. PMID- 2518715 TI - [The results obtained in the epidemiological surveillance activities of maternal child units]. PMID- 2518716 TI - [The methods and procedures for preventing cross infections in an infectious disease clinic]. PMID- 2518717 TI - [The first printed Romanian medical bulletin]. PMID- 2518718 TI - Immunology of leprosy: cellular anergy to Mycobacterium leprae. PMID- 2518719 TI - Radial thermokeratoplasty for hyperopia. II. Encouraging results from early laboratory and human trials. PMID- 2518720 TI - In vivo studies of antibody dependent acantholysis. AB - The data that are being accumulated on the mechanisms by which pemphigus autoantibodies induce acantholysis in vivo conform that tissue injury in pemphigus is a complex phenomenon where several effector mechanisms may interact. Active research is being performed in many laboratories around the world, employing both in vitro and now in vivo models to further define this unique autoimmune disease. PMID- 2518721 TI - Modulators of cutaneous inflammation and proliferation in psoriasis. PMID- 2518722 TI - Salivary gland-associated synthesis and transport of immunoglobulin A. PMID- 2518723 TI - The ovine cysticercosis as models for research into the epidemiology and control of the human and porcine cysticercosis Taenia solium: II. The application of control. AB - Field trials and control programmes demonstrate that ovine echinococcosis (Echinococcus granulosus) and the cysticercoses (Taenia hydatigena and T. ovis) have different stabilities and may not respond in the same way to control. The first-named, which is usually in the endemic state, is readily transformed by a dog-dosing programme to extinction status. In contrast, the cysticercoses, usually in the hyperendemic state, may only be transformed to the endemic state. The consequence of this includes an increase in the larval population by superinfection due to a loss of immunity following this change in epidemiological status. These field trials and control programmes have been used as models for porcine cysticercosis caused by T. solium. It is concluded that future research should model the life cycle of this parasite mathematically and determine the most cost-effective control strategies. The impact of these on human prevalence can then be addressed by pilot field trials. PMID- 2518724 TI - Flow cytometric analysis of cell proliferation dynamics in the B cell compartment of the mouse. AB - Using a method which allows simultaneous flow cytometric detection of cell surface markers and 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation, the distribution and proliferative behavior of B lineage subpopulations was studied in intact adult mice. In the bone marrow we could define two subsets of B cells on the basis of differential expression of the pan-B cell marker B220 and of membrane-associated mu and delta immunoglobulin heavy chains. B220dull mu+ delta- B cells were found to emerge from rapidly dividing cells and probably represent B cells recently generated from B220dull mu- pre-B cells. In contrast, only few, if any, of the B220bright mu+ delta+ B cells were labeled with BrdU after a period of 8 days, suggesting that these cells represent long-lived B cells residing in the bone marrow. Analysis of BrdU-incorporation into splenic B cells showed that only 20% of these cells had gone through cell division during the preceding 8 days. Almost none of the B cells in the peritoneum, a large fraction of which belongs to the Ly1 B subset, were labeled with BrdU over a period of 7 days in 8 month-old animals. PMID- 2518725 TI - Mu heavy chains can associate with a pseudo-light chain complex (psi L) in human pre-B cell lines. AB - In pre-B cells, the earliest identifiable stage of B cell differentiation, there is an asynchrony of immunoglobulin chain expression in that mu heavy chains are synthesized in the absence of light chain synthesis. These mu chains largely remain intracellular and are degraded. Here we demonstrate that a fraction of mu chains in human pre-B cell lines can reach the surface in association with three pre-B-specific proteins with relative molecular masses of 22, 18, and 16 kd, which we term collectively the pseudo-light chain complex, psi L. This association generates a multimeric complex, mu 2-psi L. Two of the psi L proteins (22 and 16 kd) are lambda-immunoreactive and form disulfide bonds with mu chains, suggesting that they are closely related to conventional lambda light chains. The 18 kd psi L species is a non-covalently-associated member of the complex. The expression of mu-psi L complexes on the surface of pre-B cells could have a functional role in the control of pre-B growth and differentiation by the hematopoietic microenvironment. PMID- 2518726 TI - Cloning and expression of a gamma-interferon-inducible gene in monocytes: a new member of a cytokine gene family. AB - To define activation-specific sequences in human peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL), a cDNA library was constructed by subtractive hybridization using resting and stimulated PBL pairs. Stimulation of PBL was achieved by triggering with mitogenic anti-CD2 (T11) monoclonal antibodies. Differential library screening with cDNA probes derived from stimulated versus resting PBL led to identification of two novel sequences, termed HC11 and HC14. The predicted primary and secondary structure of HC11 deduced from the translated nucleotide sequence suggests that the gene encodes a secreted protein of 99 amino acids (aa), including a 23 aa residue leader sequence. Surprisingly, Northern blot analysis demonstrated that HC11 mRNA is induced predominantly in peripheral blood non-T cells. Subsequently, we observed that the HC11 mRNA is induced in macrophages and the monocytic line U 937 by gamma-IFN, raising the possibility that T cell-derived gamma-IFN induced upon anti-CD2 stimulation activated monocytes to express HC11 RNA. In support of this notion, neutralizing anti-gamma-IFN monoclonal antibody inhibits the induction of HC11 mRNA in PBL activated through anti-CD2 antibodies. These findings suggest that there is a molecular cascade involving T cell-produced lymphokines and monokines which serve as a means for intercellular communication. Transient expression of HC11 cDNA results in a readily detectable specific set of protein bands in SDS-PAGE analysis of supernatants from radio-labeled COS cells, consistent with HC11 encoding a secreted product(s). Protein sequence comparison reveals homology with other members of a recently described inducible cytokine family whose functions are yet to be defined. PMID- 2518727 TI - IL-7 is a growth and maintenance factor for mature and immature thymocyte subsets. AB - The specific signals inducing the growth and maturation of thymocytes remain undefined. We show here that recombinant IL-7 induces growth of fetal and adult mouse CD4-8- thymocytes. IL-7 also induces a lower but significant response in CD4+8- and CD4-8+ thymocytes. Day 14 fetal thymic lobes cultured in IL-7 for 6 days show a 2-fold increase in cell number when compared to control cultures. The thymocyte subsets that proliferate in response to IL-7 can be maintained in culture for extended periods of time. CD4-8- thymocytes maintained in IL-7 did not change their phenotype with respect to CD4 and CD8 expression. In addition, we show that the combination of IL-7 plus IL-6 provides a potent growth stimulus for CD4+8- and CD4-8+ thymocytes. A cloned thymic epithelial cell, that can be induced to express MHC class II molecules, transcribes both IL-7 and IL-6 mRNA. A cloned thymic macrophage cell line produces IL-6 but no detectable IL-7 mRNA. The pattern of biological activities present in the supernatants of these cell lines is also presented. These observations suggest that the thymic epithelial and macrophage cell types may be an in vivo source of signals which mediate thymocyte development. PMID- 2518728 TI - An interleukin 4-induced DNase I hypersensitive site indicates opening of the gamma 1 switch region prior to switch recombination. AB - Interleukin 4 (IL4) directs class switch recombination to the gamma 1 switch region (s gamma 1) in mitogen-activated murine B lymphocytes. The finding that transcription of the unrearranged s gamma 1 and its 5' flanking region is induced by IL4 prior to switch recombination had argued for the idea that IL4 promotes s mu/s gamma 1 switch recombination by selectively inducing accessibility of the gamma 1 switch region for a general switch recombinase. Here further evidence for this model is provided by showing that within less than 6 h IL4 induces a DNase I hypersensitive (HS) site 5' adjacent to the s gamma 1 region in activated murine B cells. This change in chromatin structure most likely reflects the IL4 responsive binding of regulatory proteins within or in the vicinity of the HS site. The result provides a candidate sequence for an IL4-dependent enhancer/promoter of transcription of s gamma 1. PMID- 2518729 TI - The acquisition of CD4 and CD8 during the differentiation of early thymocytes in short-term culture. AB - Subpopulations of thymocytes known to represent early stages of T cell development were isolated from the adult mouse thymus, and their ability to differentiate during short periods of culture was assessed by their acquisition of surface CD4 and CD8. Virtually all cells of the most mature of the CD4-CD8- thymocyte subpopulations (other surface markers CD3- HSA++ IL-2R-Pgp-1-) and of the immature CD4-CD8+ thymocyte subpopulation (other surface markers also CD3- HSA++ IL-2R- Pgp-1-) became CD4+CD8+ in less than 1 day of culture without added stimuli or growth factors. This suggested they had already received signals initiating CD4 and CD8 acquisition. However, stimulation of these precursor cells with phorbyl ester and ionomycin prevented this acquisition of CD4 and CD8. No distinct CD4-CD8+ intermediate was detected as the CD4-CD8- cells became CD4+CD8+ in the non-stimulated cultures, thus questioning the assumption that these three groups of cells are sequential steps in one lineage. In contrast to this pre programmed acquisition of CD4 and CD8, the less mature CD4-CD8- IL-2R+ subpopulation did not progress to the CD4+CD8+ stage in culture, although it is able to develop further on intrathymic transfer. It is likely that this subpopulation represents a control point requiring specific differentiation signals for further development. PMID- 2518730 TI - Production of sterile transcripts of C gamma genes in an IgM-producing human neoplastic B cell line that switches to IgG-producing cells. AB - A human neoplastic B cell line SSK41 that expresses IgM on its surface switches spontaneously to IgG-producing cells. The SSK41 line contains a single immunoglobulin heavy-chain locus, the constant region (C) genes of which retain the germline configuration. The IgG-producing SSK41 line was purified by sorting, and shown to have undergone S-S recombination with deletion of the C mu gene. This line produced secretory and membrane-bound forms of gamma-chain mRNA. From cDNA libraries of a mixed population of IgM+/IgG+ SSK41 cells, we have isolated cDNA clones encoding the mature membrane-bound and secretory forms of the mu and gamma 1 heavy chains, all of which share the same variable region sequence. cDNA clones containing the mature gamma 3 chain were identified as well. We also isolated cDNA clones containing C gamma 1 and C gamma 3 sterile transcripts from the SSK41 line. These sterile transcripts contained additional exon sequences designated 'I' which were localized upstream of the C gamma 1 and C gamma 3 switch regions and homologous to murine counterparts. The I sequences were precisely spliced to the 5' ends of the corresponding C gamma exon sequences. These features of germline CH transcripts, i.e. the isotype specificity to class switching, location of exons, and sequences per se, are highly conserved between man and mouse. PMID- 2518732 TI - Studies on the antigenic S-type lipopolysaccharides of Brucella abortus strains 7 and Mustapha. AB - Antigenic phenol phase S-type lipopolysaccharides (LPS) isolated from Brucella abortus (B. abortus) strains 7 and Mustapha were observed to have 13C n.m.r. spectra which were almost identical to the one reported for the Brucella abortus 1119-3. The glycosyl content of the lipid A obtained from the LPS of strain 7 was found to be 2-acetamido-2-deoxyglucose only while strain Mustapha was found to contain both 2-acetamido-2-deoxyglucose and 2-acetamido-2-deoxygalactose. The fatty acid present in the lipid A of both strains was mainly n-hexadecanoic acid. Octadecanoic acid, 3-hydroxytetradecanoic acid as well as small quantities of 3 hydroxydodecanoic acid were also identified. This contrasts with the earlier reports of the absence of 3-OH-14:0 in the LPS of Brucella abortus. PMID- 2518731 TI - Ability of the phototrophic bacterium Rhodospirillum rubrum to produce various poly (beta-hydroxyalkanoates): potential sources for biodegradable polyesters. AB - Studies have been carried out in order to optimize growth and culture conditions for the intracellular formation of poly(beta-hydroxyalkanoates) (PHA) in the phototrophic, purple, non-sulphur bacterium Rhodospirilum rubrum. Its potential to produce novel copolymers was investigated. Recently, it has become of industrial interest to evaluate these polyesters as potentially biodegradable plastics for a wide range of possible applications. On an industrial scale, the use of photosynthetic bacteria could harness sunlight as an energy source for the production of these materials. R. rubrum was grown anaerobically in the light on different linear and branched beta-hydroxycarboxylic acids and various n-alkanoic acids. Under nitrogen-limiting conditions a PHA content of up to 45% of cellular dry weight was detected. When R. rubrum was grown on different concentrations of various n-alkanoic acids, intracellular PHA production was detected on all acids used. In most of the cases, the storage polymer contained beta-hydroxybutyrate (HB) and beta-hydroxyvalerate (HV) monomer units. Grown on n-alkanoic acids with a chain length of four carbon atoms and more, R. rubrum produced a copolymer containing the beta-hydroxyhexanoate (HC) repeating unit in addition to the HB and HV monomer. Using beta-hydroxyheptanoic acid as the carbon source, a polyester which contained HB, HV, HC, and beta-hydroxyheptanoate was formed. These copolyesters represent a novel class of biodegradable thermoplastics. The results demonstrate the metabolic flexibility of R. rubrum to form many different types of polyesters which might substitute plastics synthesized from petrochemicals. PMID- 2518734 TI - Mechanical properties of peptidoglycan as determined from bacterial thread. AB - Experiments are described in which the tensile strength, the extensibility and the initial Young's modulus of bacterial cell wall have been determined as functions of relative humidity in the range 11-98%. Data on stress relaxation and recovery are also given. Standard fibre-measuring technique has been used on 'bacterial thread', made from a cell-separation-suppressed mutant of Bacillus subtilis. The data show that peptidoglycan, the load bearing polymer in the cell wall, behaves very much like other viscoelastic polymers. Its mechanical behaviour when dry is that of a glassy polymer with tensile strength about 300 MPa and modulus about 20 GPa. When wet, it is weaker and much less stiff with tensile strength about 3 M Pa and modulus 10 M Pa. The relaxation data indicate a wide spectrum of relaxation times. The results are discussed in terms of the structure of peptidoglycan and its orientation in the bacterial cell wall. The way in which mechanical behaviour depends strongly on humidity is compared with that of other biopolymers in terms of possible hydrogen-bond density and the ordering of water molecules. The possibility of a well-defined glass transition is briefly examined. PMID- 2518733 TI - Furazolidone-induced interstrand cross-links in Vibrio cholerae DNA. Study of conformational change by circular dichroism. AB - Vibrio cholerae DNA bearing furazolidone-induced interstand cross-links show a change in the characteristic circular dichroism spectra of the DNA itself in dilute buffer. The change in c.d. spectra was characterized by a shift of the positive band around 272 nm to lower wavelength and a loss of ellipticity of the negative band around 242 nm, and is similar to that exhibited by mitomycin linked Vibrio cholerae DNA under identical conditions and is suggestive of a conformational change of DNA bearing such cross-links. Both furazolidone-induced and mitomycin-induced cross-linking of Vibrio cholerae DNA inhibited the salt induced conformation change, i.e. increase in winding angle of DNA, the percentage inhibition being greater for mitomycin-linked DNA. PMID- 2518735 TI - Waldenstrom's macroglobulinaemia: results of a combined oral treatment in 34 newly diagnosed patients. AB - From February 1978 to September 1987, 34 patients with Waldenstrom's macroglobulinaemia (WM) were treated using an oral combination consisting of melphalan (6 mg m, days-2 1-7) cyclophosphamide (125 mg m-2, days 1-7) and prednisone (40 mg m-2, days 1-7). Courses were repeated every 4-6 weeks for a total of 12 courses. After the completion of 12 courses, responding patients received continuous treatment with chlorambucil (3 mg m-2 d-1) and prednisone (6 mg m-2 d-1) until relapse. Following the induction, 23 of 31 evaluated patients (74%) have responded to induction therapy of whom eight (26% of the 31 evaluated patients) achieved complete remission defined as disappearance of all clinical and laboratory features characteristic of WM. The overall median response duration, as of December 1988, has not yet been reached, while the overall median event-free survival duration for the entire population and for responding patients is 66 months in both groups. However, in responding patients the event free survival duration after 66 months reaches a plateau. Toxicity was limited to transient nausea and vomiting (grade 2 according to WHO). In conclusion, this study demonstrates the efficacy and safety of an oral polychemotherapeutic treatment in the management of Waldenstrom's disease. PMID- 2518736 TI - Low molecular organic inactivators in differentiating organ origin of alpha amylase in humans. Part I. AB - Alpha-amylases derived from pancreatic juice, saliva and granulocytes show different sensitivity to the low molecular organic inactivators. Pancreatic alpha amylase is more susceptible to inhibitory activity of d-glyceraldehyde and d mannitol and glycerol in comparison to alpha-amylase from saliva and granulocytes. Iodoacetate and urea exhibited inhibitory activity against granulocytic alpha-amylase and only a minute inactivation of salivary and pancreatic alpha-amylases was found. The most effective inhibition against all tested alpha-amylases was noted with dihydroxyacetone. We should stress, no evident differences were noted in the degree of sensitivity to this inactivator of the tested enzymes. The presumable mechanism of the inactivation of alpha amylases with low molecular organic inactivators is briefly discussed. The procedure for the differentiation of organ origin of alpha-amylases is suggested. PMID- 2518737 TI - Ultrastructural and histochemical assessment of proximal renal tubule in rats during administration of lithium carbonate. AB - Rat kidney was studied histochemically and in electron microscope during administration of lithium carbonate for 14 days in doses of 4 mmol/l. Morphological examination demonstrated signs of damage exclusively to the epithelial cells in the proximal tubule. Histochemical examination demonstrated a major reduction of the reactions for succinate dehydrogenase and cytochrome oxidase. No difference was found in the intensity of the reaction for alkaline phosphatase and Ca-ATPase during lithium treatment as compared to controls. Additional observation demonstrated, only in histological examination, an increased number of cells of the macula densa. PMID- 2518738 TI - [Change on the cell proliferation kinetics of the central and peripheral regions of DMBA induced hamster tongue cancer following irradiation]. AB - Cellular changes on the vascular and peripheral sides of DMBA-induced cancer of the tongue in hamsters, were assessed by [3H] thymidine cellular labelling, one and three days after irradiation by 60Co-gamma ray at 20 Gy. The results obtained were as follows: 1) Initial labelling index (L.I.) was high on the vascular side and low on the peripheral side before irradiation. The L.I. on the day following irradiation was decreased was decreased for the whole tumor. The vascular side demonstrated a decrease of about 43% while there were no changes on the peripheral side. This tendency was still observed 3 days after irradiation. 2) Mitosis index (M.I.) were high on the vascular side, and low on the peripheral side before irradiation. On the following day, and three days after irradiation the M.I. was decreased totally, although the decrease was only slight on the vascular side. On the peripheral side, in contrast, the M.I. was increased to about two-fold. 3) There was no difference in the time of cellular rotation (Tc), between vascular and peripheral sides before irradiation, but the Tc on the following day of irradiation was increased by about 3 on both the vascular and peripheral sides of the tumors. In contrast, at three days after irradiation, it was decreased by about 6.5h. 4) There was no difference in the time of preparation for mitosis (Tg2) between the vascular and peripheral sides before irradiation. It was increased by about 2h on both sides on the day following irradiation, and it was increased by about 3h, 3 days after irradiation. 5) Although there was no difference in the time of mitosis (Tm) between both sides, on the day following irradiation, it was increased by about 1.6 times, and 2.1 times, on the vascular and peripheral sides, respectively. A very similar tendency was observed even 3 days after irradiation. 6) There was no difference in the time of DNA synthesis (Ts) between the vascular and peripheral sides of the tumors before irradiation, or at one, or three days after irradiation. 7) Although there was no difference in the time of preparation for synthesis (Tg1), between both sides before irradiation, or on the day following irradiation, it showed a marked decrease of about 90% on both sides of the tumors 3 days after irradiation. PMID- 2518739 TI - [Effects of EDTPO on hard tissues in rats. 1. Comparison of histological changes produced by same molar of EDTPO, HEBP and EDTA]. AB - Ethylenediamine-N,N,N',N'-tetrakis (methylenephosphonic acid) (EDTPO) is a potent inhibitor of both formation and dissolution of hydroxyapatite crystals in vitro as well as 1-hydroxyethylidene-1, 1-bisphosphonic acid (HEBP). The purpose of this study was to compare with the biological effects of the same molar level of EDTPO, HEBP and ethylenediamintetraaceticacid (EDTA), prototype of EDTPO, on bone, incisor dentin and serum chemistry in young rats. HEBP at 8mg P/kg does chosen based on it's toxicity, and 16mg P/kg of EDTPO and 48mg/kg of EDTA which were identical molar level with 8mg P/kg of HEBP, were injected subcutaneously at once a day for 10 days. At the end of treatment period blood for chemical analysis, and tibia and mandibular for histological examination were taken. Results obtained were; 1) EDTPO and HEBP impaired the net weight gain during experimental period, by about 80% of final body weight in control group, but EDTA did not affect. 2) The biochemical findings of serum were as follows; calcium (Ca) level increased in EDTPO and HEBP group, and inorganic phosphorus (IP) level decreased in EDTPO and HEBP group when compared to control group, and changes of Ca and IP level in EDTPO group was more remarkable than those of HEBP group. Alkalie phosphatase level was decreased in EDTPO group, but increased in HEBP group compared to control group. There were no significant differences between EDTA group and control group, excepting for decrease of Ca level. 3) In histological aspects of the tibia, EDTPO and HEBP groups revealed enlargement of growth plates, being greater in EDTPO group than HEBP group, over the control group, and showed expanded hypertrophic zone of growth plates and wide osteoid seams in the metaphysis. EDTPO group also inhibited the calcification of dentin of mandibular incisor more strongly than HEBP group. From these data, it was indicated that EDTPO is more potent inhibitor of calcification than HEBP. Both of EDTPO and HEBP group, moreover, revealed enlargement of tibial metaphysis. These phenomena suggest that EDTPO also inhibits bone resorption as well as HEBP. EDTA group did not reveal any differences compared to control group. PMID- 2518740 TI - [Immunoenzymatic determination of free immunoglobulin light chains in the cerebrospinal fluid: its value in the biological diagnosis of multiple sclerosis]. AB - Based on previous data on free immunoglobulin light chains in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), we evaluated free kappa and lambda light chains in the CSF from 3 patients groups: (a) 42 with MS, (b) 16 with other neurological inflammatory diseases (ONID) and (c) 42 with non inflammatory neurological diseases (NIND) used as control. The kappa and lambda light chains contents were evaluated using a specific and sensitive (0.5 mcg/ml) enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Whole CSF immunoglobulins G (CSF-IgG) concentrations were determined by an immuno-nephelometric method and CSF oligoclonal banding was assessed by agarose gel electrophoresis. Elevated free kappa light chains levels were found in 36 of the 42 (85.7%) MS-CSF, and only in 2 of the 16 (12.5%) ONID-CSF. Moreover, all MS-CSF with oligoclonal banding (21/42) exhibited detectable free kappa light chains. In contrast, elevated free lambda light chains or whole CSF-IgG concentrations were found not so specific. These results suggest that free kappa light chains measurement in MS-CSF may have an important diagnostic usefulness. This assay offers a reliable alternative to other available procedures and may constitute complementary technique in routine investigation of MS-CSF. PMID- 2518741 TI - Cells expressing intracytoplasmic immunoglobulins in secreting and hyposecreting cases of alpha chain disease. AB - Alpha chain disease proteins (ACDP) originated probably from secreting plasma cells predominantly present in diffuse and massive enteromesenteric lymphoid infiltration. Very decreased levels of abnormal alpha chain molecules were detected in sera of patients with immunoblastic lymphoma occurring in the late course of the disease. A direct correlation might exist between the proportion of cells bearing intracytoplasmic IgA determinants and the serum amounts of alpha chain disease protein. Relevant evidence raised from study of proliferating lymphoid cells using the unlabeled peroxidase anti-peroxidase method of immunocytochemistry. The percentage of cells expressing intracytoplasmic alpha chains was found to be greater readily secreting case than in hyposecreting case of alpha chain disease. Furthermore, the cells from secreting situation exhibited much more pronounced specific staining, indicative of probably more active synthesis state. Taken together with histological data, these results suggested a possible late evolutionary pathway without detectable intracytoplasmic and serum alpha chain disease protein. They might also support the hypothesis that alpha chain disease and mediterranean lymphoma were different evolutionary phases of the same entity. PMID- 2518742 TI - Spontaneous enzymatic cleavage of IgD myeloma protein giving a pattern of delta heavy chain disease. AB - The monoclonality of myeloma proteins is usually demonstrated by their electrophoretic homogeneity and their reactivity with monovalent antisera directed against isotypic determinants of a single heavy chain and a single type of light chain. The absence of precipitation with anti-sera to immunoglobulin kappa and Lambda light chains is a constant character of heavy Chain Disease Proteins (HCDP). However, homogeneous M-components present in the sera of some patients and reacting only with anti-heavy-chain antisera were identified as IgA and IgD myeloma proteins bearing unreactive Lambda chains. In this study, the electrophoretic pattern of a patient serum showed a paraprotein with heterogeneous electrophoretic mobility and precipitation reaction limited to anti IgD antiserum. The failure to react with anti-light chain antisera was observed by immuno-electrophoresis, immunofixation and rocket-immunoselection. Further analysis by crossed-immunoelectrophoresis revealed that IgD paraprotein contained two separate populations of molecules, one of them being retained when anti-Kappa and Lambda light chains anti-bodies were incorporated in the first dimension gel. It soon became obvious that the observed pattern was generated by enzymatic cleavage of native IgD myeloma protein. PMID- 2518743 TI - Biclonal gammopathy of kappa light chain type in a case of multiple myeloma. AB - This immunoglobulin abnormality was found in the serum of a 33 years old man presenting with anemia, weight loss, bone pain and a single bone lesion. The cellulose acetate electrophoresis of his serum showed 2 homogeneous bands migrating in the gamma and alpha-2 regions. Agar gel immunoelectrophoresis using anti-whole normal serum revealed 2 abnormal precipitin arcs of gamma-2 and alpha 2 respective mobility. These 2 M-components precipitated with anti-human kappa light chain antiserum but failed to react with lambda-light chain specific and H chains specific anti-sera. Furthermore, the 2 monoclonal kappa chains were still demonstrated in the supernatant of the se-rum treated with 50% saturated ammonium sulphate. The 2 kappa chains were isolated from the supernatant using goat anti kappa antibodies bound to Sepharose-4B. Their SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis pattern showed a single protein band of 25 Kd molecular weight. This suggest the presence of 2 monomeric kappa chains of different clonal origin. Subsequently, the difference in their electrophoretic mobility was probably due to different V-kappa sequences. However, it is also possible that the unusual alpha-2 mobility is a consequence of a moderate glycosylation without increase in molecular weight. PMID- 2518745 TI - [Biochemical studies on intramembranous localization of alkaline phosphatase in Bacillus megaterium KM]. AB - Intramembranous localization of alkaline phosphatase (orthophosphoric monoester phosphohydrolase, alkaline optimum, EC 3, 1, 3, 1; AlPase) was observed biochemically in Bacillus megaterium KM grown in 1% polypeptone medium containing 0.5% NaCl at 37 degrees C under aerobic conditions and harvested at the latter logarithmic phase. AlPases from B. megaterium have been separated into soluble and membrane-bound forms by the centrifugation after cell disruption by sonication. The membrane-bound enzyme was further fractionated to two forms by phase separation using a non-ionic detergent, Triton X-114; one was successfully solubilized into the aqueous phase and the other remained in the Triton phase. Both AlPases of sonication- and Triton-solubilized forms were partially purified by gel filtration and anion-exchange column chromatographies. Their molecular weights were different (52,000 for soluble and 66,000 for Triton-solubilized forms) and the Vmax of the sonication-solubilized enzyme (227 nmol/min/mg protein) was 11-fold higher than that of the Triton-solubilized one although similar Km values (1.7 and 2.3 mM) were observed. Optimum pH of these enzymes tended to shift to a neutral range during the purification steps. These results suggest the multiplicity of AlPase anchoring to the membranes; 1) sonication solubilized form which may be buried within the membrane lipids by its hydrophobic peptide and solubilized by the cell disruption, 2) detergent solubilized form which may be bound loosely to the membrane by its hydrophobic domain and solubilized due to the amphiphilicity of enzyme protein, and 3) insolubilized form which may be bound fast to the membrane by its strong hydrophobicity and also have the function of enzymatic ability. PMID- 2518744 TI - Effects of selected chelating agents on organ distribution and excretion of manganese after inhalation exposure to 54MnCl2. I. Injection of chelating agents. AB - The effect of 1,2-cyclohexylene-aminotetraacetic acid (CDTA), diethylenetriaminepentaacetis acid (DTPA) and 2,3-dimercaptol-1-propanesulphonic acid, sodium salt (DMPS) on Mn distribution and excretion in rats was examined after 1 hr exposure to 54MnCl2 (approximately 0.1 microgram Mn/m3). All complexing agents were injected i.p., 0.32 mM/kg/day, for 7 days, starting either immediately after exposure (day 0, group I), or 1 week after exposure (day 7, group II). The controls were injected i.p. with 4 ml/kg of 0.9% saline. Activity of 54Mn was determined in lung, liver, kidney, and brain, 24 hrs after the last treatment and in urine and feces collected for 24 hrs on days 1-7 and 8-14 respectively. CDTA and DTPA administered immediately after Mn exposure appeared to be most effective, resulting in a two-fold decrease of 54Mn in brain and kidney, and a statistically significant decrease in lung (DTPA) and liver (CDTA). In group II a two-fold decrease of 54Mn in kidney and liver was observed with CDTA. There was also a decrease after DTPA administration. DMPS was not effective in these experiments. On the first day after exposure, 54Mn levels in urine were more than 15 and 25 times higher for CDTA and DTPA, respectively than for saline, in the early treatment group. Excretion of Mn in feces was not affected. Our data show that the effectiveness of removing inhaled Mn depends both on the complexing agent and the time of its administration. PMID- 2518746 TI - [Comparative investigation of compressive resistance of glass-cermet cements used as a core material in post-core systems]. AB - In post-core applications, addition to the cast designs restorations that are performed on fabrication posts with restorative materials are being used. To improve the physical properties of glass-ionomer cements that are popular today, glass-cermet cements have been introduced and those materials have been proposed to be an alternative restorative material in post-core applications. In this study, the compressive resistance of Ketac-Silver as a core material was investigated comparatively with amalgam and composite resins. PMID- 2518748 TI - Recombinant interferon-gamma is a potent inhibitor of osteoblastic cell functions. AB - Interleukin-1 and tumor necrosis factor-stimulated bone resorption is mediated by osteoclast-activating factor elaborated by osteoblasts. Recombinant interferon gamma inhibits stimulation of bone resorption by these cytokines. We examined here the effects of recombinant mouse interferon-gamma (rmIFN-G) on DNA and collagen synthesis, and on alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, in the osteoblastic cell line (MC3T3-E1) under confluent culture conditions. Addition of rmIFN-G to the cells markedly inhibited their DNA synthesis and ALP activity in dose- and culture time-related manner. Also we found that rmIFN-G decreased markedly collagen synthesis at day 3 after addition of the agent. These data indicate that rmIFN-G is a potent inhibitor of osteoblastic cell functions. PMID- 2518747 TI - Ultrastructural histochemistry of carbonic anhydrase in rat osteoclasts. AB - Carbonic anhydrase (CA) was localized in osteoclasts of rat tibial metaphysis by light and electron microscopy using the histochemical method of Hansson. Ultrastructurally, positive staining was seen in the cytosol, mitochondrial cristae, Golgi apparatus, some nuclei and lysosomelike vesicles, and on the bone surface beneath the osteoclast. The presence of the enzyme within the Golgi ++apparatus, lysosomelike vesicles, and on the bone surface beneath the osteoclast suggests that some CA may be secreted into the resorbing zone. According to literature, the above localization of CA suggests that there may be three isozymes of CA in the rat osteoclast. These are ubiquitous cytosolic CA (CA II), mitochondrial CA (CA-V) and secretory CA (CA-VI). PMID- 2518750 TI - [Effect of diglyceride on phospholipase A2 activities in plasma membrane of guinea pig peritoneal macrophases]. AB - The AA release from phospholipids is believed to be controlled by the activation of phospholipase A2 which are probably localized in the plasma membranes. And the considerable interest has been focused on the study of cells of the immune system including macrophages which metabolize arachidonic acid (AA) to prostaglandins, thromboxanes and leukotriens. Recently, it has been reported that phosphatidylinositol (PI) turnover plays an important role in the response to external stimuli in these cells. PI turnover has been accepted as being initiated by the hydrolysis of PI which is catalyzed by the phospholipase C and produced AA. Recently, we demonstrated that PI-specific phospholipase A2 in macrophage plasma membrane directly acted for AA release from PI. On the other hand, diglyceride, which is produced from PI by phospholipase C activation, is known to regulate the several cell functions with a protein kinase C activation. In this report, we examined the effect of diglyceride on phospholipase A2 activities in macrophage plasma membrane. PI-phospholipase A2 and PC-phospholipase A2 activities were stimulated by the addition of diglyceride. In contrast, PE phospholipase A2 was not affected by diglyceride addition. The results suggested that phospholipase A2 activation was occurred with coupling the diglyceride production via the phospholipase C pathway. PMID- 2518749 TI - [Inhibitory effect of recombinant human interferon gamma on human osteoblastic osteosarcoma cells (SaOS2)]. AB - Recent studies have suggested that interleukin-1 or tumor necrosis factor stimulated bone resorption is mediated by osteoclast-activating factor elaborated by osteoblastic cells. Since recombinant interferon gamma inhibits stimulation of bone resorption by these cytokines, we examined here the effects of recombinant human interferon gamma (rhIFN-G) on DNA synthesis and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity of a human osteoblastic osteosarcoma cell line, SaOS2, under preconfluent culture conditions. Addition of rhIFN-G to the cells markedly inhibited their DNA synthesis and ALP activity in a dose-dependent fashion. However, the inhibition was not dependent on the culture time. The highest inhibitory effect was observed in 10% serum-containing culture medium. The inhibitory effect on DNA synthesis was not eliminated by addition of indomethacin, a cyclooxygenase inhibitor. Furthermore, combination of rhIFN-G and recombinant human tumor necrosis factor alpha inhibited their DNA synthesis and the ALP activity in synergistic fashion. Therefore, these data suggest that rhIFN G is a potent inhibitor for human osteoblastic cells. PMID- 2518751 TI - The effect of voluntary ventilation on acid-base responses to a Moo Duk Tkow form. AB - Voluntary control of breathing is taught in Moo Duk Tkow in order to maximize force during striking, kicking, and blocking. Form, a formalized practice routine which incorporates these techniques, is a short predetermined sequence of arm and leg movements performed at high intensity which includes a number of pauses. The purpose of this study was to investigate the acid-base and lactate responses to a beginning level form, Ki Cho I. Nine subjects, five black belts and four brown belts, were asked to perform Ki Cho I at competitive intensity. Arterialized finger capillary blood was drawn prior to and immediately after the form for the determination of pH, bicarbonate, base excess, and PCO2 by use of the Siggaard Anderson Nomogram. Heart rate was obtained by ECG, and lactate was measured by enzymatic assay. Statistically significant differences (p less than .05) were found for all variables. Mean pre and post values (+/- standard deviations) were: pH 7.39 +/- .04 to 7.34 +/- .03; base excess -.3 +/- 1.2 to -2.8 +/- 1.7 mEq/L; bicarbonate 23.7 +/- 1.0 to 21.8 +/- 1.4 mEq/L; PCO2 39.9 +/- 3.9 to 45.1 +/- 5.4 mmHg; lactate 1.51 +/- .71 to 3.23 +/- 1.56 mM; and heart rate 74.9 +/- 12.6 to 132.1 +/- 17.0 bpm. The mean form time was 17.2 +/- 1.8 s. It was concluded that respiratory compensation does not occur and that respiratory acidosis may contribute to the metabolic acidosis. PMID- 2518752 TI - Information source utilization and teachers' attributes in physical education: a preliminary test of a rational paradigm. AB - This study sought to provide empirical evidence concerning physical education information-seeking patterns of elementary teachers at the primary level. It also investigated the relationship between information use patterns and teachers' attributes. A model based on simple utilitarian concepts explaining information use patterns was developed and tested. The basic assumption of the model was that the use of information sources would increase as the perceived benefits of the information derived increased, and the costs of retrieving and using the information decreased. Subjects for the study were elementary school teachers from the Vancouver school system in British Columbia, Canada (N = 86). Simultaneous equation procedures employing limited information likelihood estimators were used to test the model. The results of the study indicated that sources of information internal to the school system dominated utilization patterns. Among these, curriculum support material and discussion with colleagues were highly favored, suggesting that teachers at these grade levels rely heavily upon the experience of others in the same system and the support of very specific resource materials about physical education activities. The research also showed that those who felt they knew more and claimed to enjoy teaching actively sought to acquire more knowledge from more sources than those who knew less. Finally, the study demonstrated that models based on simple assumptions of rationality can predict decisions concerning information utilization. PMID- 2518753 TI - [Apicoectomy performed after supervoltage radiotherapy in the region of oral cavity and neck: case report]. AB - The author describes a case of apicoectomy of the lower canine in a patient who was previously exposed to supervoltage radiotherapy in the oral cavity and neck regions. After the comment on the uneventful postoperative course and the absence of complications one year and a half later, the author points out that apicoectomy should be taken into account when dental care of irradiated patients was planned. PMID- 2518754 TI - Effects of hypotensive anesthesia on endocrine systems in oral surgery. PMID- 2518755 TI - Determination of pravastatin sodium and its isomeric metabolite in human urine by HPLC with UV detection. PMID- 2518756 TI - [Segmental neurofibromatosis]. PMID- 2518757 TI - [Malnutrition, plasma proteins and immunoglobulins in Chilean puerperal women]. AB - Healthy lying-in women admitted to the Clinical Hospital of the University of Chile, most of them belonging to the low socioeconomic of Santiago (Chile), showed a steady decrease in the plasma levels of total protein, albumin, beta globulin, IgA, and IgM, and also a striking increase in the plasma level of alpha 1-Globulin. This trend was ascertained from december 1982 to august 1985, and the pattern of plasma protein change is similar to that found in human malnutrition. The observed changes in the immunoglobulins levels suggest a different behavior between IgM and IgA that do not cross the placenta and IgG that crosses it. PMID- 2518758 TI - [Adhesion of 4-META/MMA-TBB resin to dentin treated with EDTA metal ammonium solutions. Effect of Fe.NH4, Co.NH4 or Cu.NH4 salts]. AB - EDTA metal ammonium salt solution containing Fe3+, Co3+ or Cu2+ was studied to determine the pretreatment reagent that causes no denaturation of dentin collagen and promotes good adhesion to dentin. After application of EDTA 3-2 (Fe.NH4), EDTA 3-2 (Co.NH4) or EDTA 3-2 (Cu.NH4) at pH 7.4 on the dentin surface, the amount of Ca2+ demineralized and the tensile bond strength were measured. The pretreated dentin surfaces were also observed with SEM. No correlation was obtained between the amount of Ca2+ demineralized and the tensile bond strength. On the EDTA 3-2 (Fe.NH4) treated dentin a small amount of smear remained partially, but the tensile bond strength of 4-META/MMA-TBB resin to the dentin was higher than 13 MPa. This indicates that complete removal of the smear on dentin is not always necessary for better bonding. PMID- 2518759 TI - The effect of C-terminal processing on the activity of human interferon-gamma. AB - Homogeneous recombinant human interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) obtained from Escherichia coli (E. coli) was treated with a protease-containing fraction prepared from mechanically lysed E. coli cells. Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of the resulting product revealed two major components of molecular weight less than that of intact IFN-gamma. These were purified by ion exchange chromatography in the presence of 7 M urea and shown to have intact IFN gamma N-terminal sequences, suggesting that they resulted via C-terminal cleavages of IFN-gamma. Amino acid analysis indicated that 4 C-terminal residues of IFN-gamma were lacking in one, and 15 in the other. The species lacking 4 C terminal residues had activities virtually indistinguishable from those of IFN gamma in antiviral and growth inhibitory assays using Encepharomyocarditis treated HeLa or T98G cells and in a macrophage activation assay using macrophage like U937 cells. The species lacking 15 C-terminal residues had markedly decreased activities in each of these assays, and had decreased binding affinity for IFN-gamma cell surface receptors. These observations define the C-terminal residues important for IFN-gamma's biological activity--information which should be useful in designing analogs of IFN-gamma with enhanced or altered biological activities. PMID- 2518760 TI - [Spreading of Listeria monocytogenes in cheese dairy products]. AB - The increasingly more frequent occurrences of epidemic nidus of Listeria monocytogenes induced the E.E.C. Health Organisation to research into the diffusion of such microorganism. During the first six months of 1988 the "Istituto Superiore di Sanita" began a research into the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in milk and dairy products. The biological section of the "Laboratorio di Sanita Pubblica" of Grugliasco (Torino) participated in this study and in this work methods and results are reported. Changing the F.D.A. methods, incubation time was reduced. The percentage of positive samples was 4.6%, especially in dairy products with cheese mould. These results confirm an environmental diffusion of Listeria monocytogenes, nevertheless non illness caused by Listeria monocytogenes was recorded in the population who ate these products. Therefore the problem of Listeria monocytogenes pathogenicity and its diffusion by food remains to be clarified. PMID- 2518761 TI - [Evaluation of in vitro antibiotic sensitivity: critical features of the MIC]. AB - Current methods for the "in vitro" study of antibiotic activity, as minimum inhibitory concentration, expose bacteria to constant concentrations of antibiotics. The "in vivo" situation is significantly different, since the antibiotic concentration changes with time. Pharmacokinetic models are "in vitro" experimental systems that seek to simulate conditions of exposure of bacteria to antimicrobial agents that exist in blood and tissues. All of these systems are complicated constructions. A new simple "in vitro" kinetic model, based on solid phase growth, is described. PMID- 2518763 TI - [Macrophage activation and lymphokine production in the mouse by lymphocytes sensitized against Trichomonas vaginalis]. AB - In this study we have examined whether resident peritoneal macrophages could be activated in vitro by immune T lymphocytes obtained from mice which were immunized with live Trichomonas vaginalis (T. vaginalis). T lymphocytes obtained from mice previously sensitized against T. vaginalis, showed a significant proliferative response when cultured in vitro in the presence of T. vaginalis. Resident peritoneal macrophages obtained from untreated syngenic Balb/c mice revealed an increasing cytotoxic activity against the protozoa when seeded with increasing concentrations of purified immune T lymphocytes and a constant number of H3 thymidine-labeled T. vaginalis. This cytotoxicity was detectable after 24 h of culture and peaked after 48 h. Supernatants obtained from cocultures of macrophages, immune T lymphocytes and T. vaginalis contained gamma-Interferon and TNF alpha/beta. PMID- 2518762 TI - [Biological response modifiers and their use in urology: our experience]. PMID- 2518764 TI - [Long-term follow-up of women treated with contraceptive implants of levonorgestrel Norplant]. AB - This report describe the long-term follow-up of 376 women who received Norplant implants in the period october 1974 through may 1979. One-hundred-and-ten subjects received replacement implants after variable lengths of use of the first set. The average levonorgestrel plasma levels declined steadily through eight years of use of Norplant capsules (r = -937). Values were 0.35 ng/ml, 0.29 ng/ml and 0.22 ng/ml at treatment years 1, 5 and 8, respectively. Levonorgestrel plasma levels after replacement with a second set of implants were similar to those observed after the first insertion, either when placed in the same site as the first set or in a different area. The levonorgestrel half-life after implant removal was 42 +/- 16 h (X +/- S.E.) and only trace amounts are detected after 96 h. Nineteen pregnancies occurred during 18,530 woman-months of use of the first set of implants, eleven of them during years 6 through 8 of treatment. The Pearl Index for the first years of Norplant implants use was 0.63. No pregnancy has occurred in 5.020 woman-months observed during treatment with a second set of capsules. Fifty-six women (14.9%) out of 376 acceptors of the first implant and 12 (10.9%) out of 110 acceptors of the replacement implants were terminated for other medical reasons, mainly side effects commonly associated with hormonal contraception. Removals for bleeding problems occurred in 5.6% and 3.6% of the acceptors of the first and second implant, respectively.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2518765 TI - [Resistance caused by hyperproduction of chromosomal beta-lactamase in Pseudomonas aeruginosa]. AB - From 120 Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains selected for their slight susceptibility to ceftazidime (MIC greater than or equal to 16 micrograms/ml) we studied the characteristics of beta-lactamases and their susceptibility to aminoglycoside and to beta-lactam antibiotics. The quantitative spectrum, chromosomic beta-lactamase hyperproduction and the isoelectric point of beta-lactamases were also studied as well as the MIC in solid medium, inoculum 5 x 10(4) cfu. About 14.7% of strains moderately susceptible to ceftazidime and 88.4% of those resistant, were hyperproducers of chromosomic beta-lactamases. All the strains were resistant to ureidopenicillins, cefotaxime and moxalactam, 55.8% to monobactams and 35% were also resistant to cefsulodine; all of them were susceptible to imipenem. In bacteria isolated from twelve patients a loss of susceptibility could be observed against ceftazidime and other beta-lactams. There was also an increase in chromosomic beta-lactamase production during the treatment with antibiotics. PMID- 2518766 TI - [Detection of hyperproduction of chromosomal beta-lactamase in strains of Escherichia coli, Enterobacter cloacae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa]. AB - In order to show up the hyperproduction of chromosomic beta-lactamases in strains of Enterobacteriaceae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa we have tested a variant of a technique proposed by Medeiros et al. It is a qualitative technique and, the modification introduced allows errors of interpretation to be avoided, when the strain is a producer of plasmidic beta-lactamase. It is based on evaluating the amount of beta-lactamase in a culture, measured in time taken for the hydrolysis of nitrocefin, with or without the addition of clavulanic acid. We present the results obtained in 526 selected strains: 271 E. coli, 116 E. cloacae and 139 P. aeruginosa. One hundred and twenty for strains hydrolyzed the nitrocefin in the absence of clavulanic acid within 60 seconds. Only 52 (41.94%) of these strains did it when clavulanic acid was present; all of them have been qualified as hyperproducers according to susceptibility to beta-lactam antibiotics and the study and identification of the beta-lactamases by analytic isoelectrofocusing. The hydrolysis was evident before the 15 seconds in the 80% of hyperproducer strains. No false positive results were observed. PMID- 2518768 TI - [Human infection caused by Brucella abortus]. PMID- 2518769 TI - [Incidence of strains of Neisseria gonorrhoeae producing penicillinase (NGPP) in Ferrol. Distribution by serogroups]. PMID- 2518767 TI - [Fever, hematuria and dysuria upon returning from Africa]. PMID- 2518771 TI - The Rh blood group system. PMID- 2518770 TI - [Infection in the neutropenic patient]. PMID- 2518772 TI - Quantitative determination of nitroglycerin by capillary gas chromatography electron capture detection. AB - A rapid and sensitive capillary gas chromatographic method based on the one described by Noonan et al. [1] was used to evaluate the nitroglycerin content in serum samples of healthy volunteers, who had orally received a special preparation of the drug (Nisconitrine 6.5, Bio-Therabel). Concentrations were monitored up to 12 h after administration. In accordance with other literature data [2], no detectable amounts of the mother compound were found (limit of detection: 50 pg ml-1). Yet, significant amounts of the active metabolites, 1,2- and 1,3-dinitroglycerine could be demonstrated. Due to the low mass spectrometric response (electron impact ionization) of the different nitroglycerins, positive confirmation of the results with GC-MS was not possible. However, the concentrations reported here do agree with literature data [2], i.e. the ng ml-1 level. PMID- 2518773 TI - Comparison of gas-liquid chromatography and fluorescence polarization immunoassay for therapeutic drug monitoring of flecainide acetate. AB - A gas chromatographic (GC) method for quantitation of flecainide acetate in human plasma is described and compared with a fluorescence polarization immunoassay (FPIA) for therapeutic drug monitoring. The GC method includes a solid-phase extraction procedure and electron capture detection (ECD) without the need of derivatization. Within-day and between-day coefficients of variation were less than 7% of GC and FPIA. Recovery was between 89-101% for the GC method. Plasma from 36 patients were analysed by both GC and FPIA and the results showed a good correlation (slope = 0.96; intercept = 0.009 micrograms ml-1; r = 0.987). PMID- 2518774 TI - Quantitative analysis of demeclocycline by high-performance liquid chromatography. AB - A high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) method suitable for the quality control of demeclocycline is described. The stationary phase is a poly(styrene divinylbenzene) copolymer, kept at 60 degrees C. The mobile phase comprises 2 methyl-2-propanol-0.2 M potassium phosphate buffer (pH 9.0)-0.02 M tetrabutylammonium hydrogen sulphate (pH 9.0)-0.01 M sodium edetate (pH 9.0) water (8:10:15:10:57, m/v/v/v/v). The flow rate is 1 ml min-1 and detection is performed at 254 nm. Official standards are compared and results for the analysis of a number of commercial bulk samples and preparations are presented. 4 Epidemeclocycline and demethyltetracycline are the main impurities. 4 Epidemethyltetracycline and 2-acetyl-2-decarboxamido-demeclocycline can also be present. PMID- 2518775 TI - Experimental observations on the bacteriological controls of antibiotics--II. Inactivation of the antimicrobial activity of membranes employed for the filtration of antibiotics. PMID- 2518777 TI - Efficacy of glyceryl methacrylate as a dentin primer. AB - The efficacy of pretreatment on the dentin surface with an aqueous solution of glyceryl methacrylate (GM) was examined by measuring the wall-to-wall polymerization contraction of a light activated composite in a cylindrical dentin cavity, and by measuring the tensile bond strength to a flat dentin surface. All of the tested dentin surfaces were cleaned with neutralized 0.5 M EDTA and treated with experimental primers, followed by a marketed dentin bonding agent and composite. The contraction gap formation of the composite was completely prevented by the application of the GM solution at concentrations of 25 and 35% in water. In contrast, half of the specimens treated with 35% HEMA and 35% HEMA containing 5% glutaraldehyde showed gap formation. Furthermore, a considerably high tensile bond strength of more than 18MPa was observed in the above described dentin bonding system. PMID- 2518776 TI - Studies on adhesion to tooth substrate. 6. Adhesion of composite resin to dentin mediated by the dentin primer containing MTYA. AB - The influences of the kinds and concentrations of the aldehydes in the primer on dentin adhesion were investigated. Moreover, the durability of the adhesion to the dentin treated with primer was examined by thermal cycling tests. Among the aldehyde tested here, glutaraldehyde was effective in improving the adhesion to dentin etched with citric acid. When HEMA was substituted with ethanol, the bond strengths decreased. The relationship between the bond strength and the concentration of glutaraldehyde in the primer was studied. In the cases of phosphoric acid or citric acid etching, the bond strengths were affected by the concentration of glutaraldehyde in the primer. The bond strengths decreased after 2000 thermocycles in phosphoric acid etching. PMID- 2518778 TI - [In situ hybridization with DNA probe for the diagnosis of Neisseria gonorrhoeae infections]. AB - A comparative study of a DNA probe for the detection of Neisseria gonorrhoeae with Gram stain and modified Thayer-Martin medium was performed. The probe was the 2.6 megadaltons (Mda) cryptic plasmid of N. gonorrhoeae, labeled with a nonradioactive system combining sulphonation of DNA with the antibody detection of sulphonated groups (Organics Chemiprobe). Overall 101 samples were evaluated: 39 urethral exudates, 3 rectal exudates, and 59 cervical exudates, from 42 males and 54 females in whom gonococcal infection was suspected. Simultaneously, Gram stain and culture of the several exudates were carried out. The in vitro sensitivity of the method was evaluated with different dilutions of N. gonorrhoeae, from 1 to 1000 cfu/ml, and a minimum of 50 cfu/ml were detected. In the detection of N. gonorrhoeae in clinical samples, there was a 100% sensitivity and a specificity of 83% (males) and 79% (females), with positive predictive value of 97% in males and 53% in females. The negative predictive value was 100% both for males and females. PMID- 2518779 TI - [Type TEM beta-lactamase activity in a Neisseria meningitidis strain]. AB - We studied the beta-lactamase activity characteristics of a penicillin G resistant N. meningitidis strain (MIC = 8 micrograms/ml) isolated from a septicemic process, in an eleven month old girl, attended in the Sabadell Hospital (Barcelona). The beta-lactamase substrate profile was broad-spectrum (it hydrolyses penicillin G and cephaloridine) and the nitrocefin hydrolysis was inhibited by clavulanic acid. The analytical isoelectric focusing of the enzyme showed that the isoelectric point of the main band and, the secondary bands, were compatible with those of the type TEM-1 standard enzyme. We also obtained a positive DNA-DNA hybridization with the TEM-1 beta-lactamase (pBR322 plasmid). PMID- 2518780 TI - [Conjunctivitis caused by Branhamella]. PMID- 2518781 TI - Medical and biological problems of the environment protection at seafaring. PMID- 2518782 TI - Cost and quality trade-offs in the treatment of hypertension. AB - The cost-effectiveness of treatment for hypertension is positively related to the level of pretreatment blood pressure and to the level of success in achieving patient adherence to prescribed medical regimens. Opportunities to improve the cost-effectiveness of treatment include limiting treatment to patients with well documented sustained increases in blood pressure, giving higher priority to the treatment of patients with diastolic blood pressures of 100 mm Hg and above, and relying on lower-cost medications if clinical responses to treatment permit. In patients with mild hypertension, a comparison of strategies for initiating pharmacological treatment that takes into account potential side effects as well as the costs of medications indicates a difference of $270/patient-yr between the least and most expensive alternatives. Whether the additional costs of more expensive treatment strategies are "worth it" depend on any additional health benefits actually conferred. Moreover, higher-cost strategies may have negative influences on patients' decisions to adhere to prescribed regimens or to continue in treatment. Cost is a particular problem for the treatment of chronic conditions like hypertension because of inadequate insurance coverage for medications, especially for the poor. PMID- 2518783 TI - [Listeriosis in the adult: presentation of 14 cases]. AB - The incidence of Listeria monocytogenes (LM) infection has increased in recent years, particularly in immunocompromised patients or in those with severe underlying diseases. However, it still is an unusual pathogen. In the present study we report 14 cases of listeriosis in adults, seen from 1978 to 1988. The organism was isolated from the blood in 10 instances, from cerebrospinal fluid in 5, and from a cervical abscess in one. The ages of the patients ranged from 29 to 81 years and there was a clear male predominance. In all cases except in one there was a previous underlying disease, and four had received immunosuppressant therapy. Listeria monocytogenes was sensitive to ampicillin, erythromycin, vancomycin, gentamicin, rifampicin, ticarcillin, azlocillin, mezlocillin and tetracyclines. PMID- 2518784 TI - [Nutritional status of Guatemalan preschool children hospitalized for acute respiratory infections]. AB - Nutritional status (weight-for-age, length-for-age, and weight-for-length) was determined in 678 children aged 0-59 months, admitted to the San Juan de Dios General Hospital in Guatemala City with signs and symptoms of acute respiratory infections. Five hundred and fifty seven (82.2%) cases were bronchopneumoniae; 62 (9.1%) were pneumoniae, and 43 (6.3%) were bronchiolitis. Five hundred and seventy (82.6%) children lived in the urban zones of the capital city and 118 (17.4%) in the municipalities of the Department of Guatemala. Deficit in weight for-age was found in 188 (27.8%) cases, while 176 (25.9%) showed a deficiency in length-for-age. In terms of weight-for-length, 84 (12.4%) were below -2.00 standard deviations of the reference curve. The children from out of the city showed the highest proportions of malnutrition. Monitoring of nutritional status of hospitalized children with infectious diseases can provide valuable information, not only for their management, but also for parental health education. PMID- 2518785 TI - [Increase of physical activity by improvement of the nutritional status]. AB - Physical activity is affected by nutritional modifications and, in turn, influences growth, cognition, social behavior, work performance and other functions. Studies in preschool children showed that: 1. A decrease in energy intake during four to seven days reduced the time allocated to energy-demanding activities and increased sedentary activities. 2. Children with mild weight deficit were more sedentary than well-nourished counterparts. 3. Children became more active when nutritional status improved. 4. A 10% reduction in energy intake reduced total energy expenditure by 15% without affecting weight gain nor basal metabolism. Studies of men working in non-mechanized agriculture showed that: 1. Dietary improvements led to faster salaried work, reduction of napping time and greater physical activity after work. 2. An increase in energy intake increased total daily energy expenditure, tending to maintain energy balance and relatively stable body weight within the cyclic variations of the agricultural year. 3. Food supplementation did not necessarily improve productivity. Other labor incentives without dietary improvements increased energy expenditure during working hours, which resulted in weight loss. In conclusion, good health and nutrition provide the biological basis for adequate physical activity that may improve cognitive development, social interactions, economic productivity and the quality of life of an individual or a population, but other incentives are required for the optimal expression of that biologic potential. PMID- 2518786 TI - [Household food distribution behavior in periurban communities of Guatemala: lessons for food distribution programs]. AB - Do mothers of undernourished children recognize their offspring's needs? How do they feed these target children compared to other households members when food supplements are available? Which cultural principles of intra-household food distribution are associated with feeding behavior? How do household members perceive and use food supplements that are donated for undernourished target children? Answers were sought in a dietary-ethnographic study of 45 households receiving supplements for a low-weight child between one and five years, of age in two periurban low-income communities of the City of Guatemala. The central hypothesis was that we would find four cultural principles of food distribution: contributions, need, equity, and demand. The dietary survey combined direct measure and recall techniques and was done twice for all 230 individuals conforming these households. Ethnographic interviews were carried out with mothers of all target children. T-tests determined the relation between food distribution behavior and cultural rules. Findings revealed that the cultural principles of contributions, needs, and demand are present, but instead of the equity principle, we found one of equality. In the great majority of the feeding events observed, the child's mother prepares and distributes the food. The target child does not receive preferential treatment in the intra-household distribution of food supplements and other foodstuffs. Donated milk is destined principally for the children in the household; all other supplements are distributed among all members. Adult males are favored in the distribution of kcal at regular mealtimes. Children are favored in the distribution of kcal when total daily consumption is calculated. There are significant associations between the expressions of the cultural principle favoring equal distribution and that of contribution which favors adult men, and actual food distribution behavior. These principles seem to operate at formal meal events only. It was found that feeding behavior between meals (snacks, nibbling, etc.) is not subject to these salient principles and tends to compensate those household members who are not given preferential treatment in food distribution at formal mealtimes. PMID- 2518787 TI - [The mapping information system: an experience in the development of appropriated software for analysis and presentation of information]. AB - The mapping system (SIMAP), is an experience of the Institute of Nutrition of Central America and Panama in developing an appropriate software (programs) for information needs of the countries of the Central American Isthmus. Through its main characteristics: geographic association, easy use, flexible and versatile, SIMAP is a tool that can easily be used for decision-making in the different sectors. The system's main modules are presented in this article as well as some applications where the SIMAP would serve as support in the analysis and interpretation of information. PMID- 2518788 TI - [Teratogenic study of Spirulina in rats]. AB - The algae Spirulina has been considered for use as a supplementary protein to feed and food. Any form of single cell protein destined to this purpose should be previously subjected to detailed toxicological investigations in animals or another experimental models. The present study was therefore designed to determine the teratogenic potential of Spirulina in rats. The algae was administered in the diet at the levels of 0, 10, 20 and 30 g/100 g on days 7-14, 1-14 and 1-21 of gestation. The dams were sacrificed prior to term, and the fetuses examined for external, visceral and skeletal abnormalities. Maternal and fetal weights were not affected. Neither fetotoxicity nor teratogenicity was associated with the dietary ingestion of Spirulina. It is also considered important to extend these studies to other animal species. PMID- 2518789 TI - Clinical features of depression in the nursing home. AB - The prevalence of depression among nursing home residents was estimated by screening a group of residents selected from a random sample on the basis of cognitive status; it ranged from 18-20% for major depression to 27-44% for other dysphoric states. Though individual patients were observed to change over a 6 month period, depression as assessed with the Geriatric Depression Scale was, in general, persistent. Major depression was clinically confirmed in 8 of 10 patients identified at screening. It was characterized by medical disorders that complicated diagnosis and treatment, and by increased mortality relative to the rest of the population. PMID- 2518790 TI - Acute viral hepatitis: an aetiological study of 253 patients. AB - Two hundred and fifty-three cases of acute viral hepatitis admitted to Ibn Al Khateeb Infectious Disease Hospital, Baghdad, were studied prospectively regarding the viral aetiological agent. The most common cause was infection with one of the non-A, non-B viruses (51%). The second most common cause was infection with the hepatitis B virus (32%); two of these patients had hepatitis delta-co infection. Hepatitis A virus was responsible for 15% of the cases, and hepatitis delta-virus superinfection in 2% of the cases. PMID- 2518791 TI - Fulminant viral hepatitis: Indian experience. AB - Thirty-six patients with fulminant viral hepatitis were studied. Enzyme immunoassay was used to detect the presence of HBsAg, IgM anti-HBc, and IgM anti HAV. Non-A, non-B virus was the most common aetiological agent (61.1%) followed by hepatitis B virus (HBV; 30.6%) and hepatitis A virus (8.3%). Presence of IgM anti-HBc confirmed the diagnosis of HBV infection in three cases who were negative for HBsAg. Similarly, in one case who was positive for HBsAg, absence of IgM anti-HBc suggested superinfection with some other agent. Survival was significantly higher (P less than 0.01) in the hepatitis A virus (HAV) group (66.6%) compared with non-A, non-B (31.2%) and HBV groups (27.3%). Fever at the onset of illness was seen in all patients with HAV, 54.5% of patients with HBV and 38.88% of patients with non-A, non-B infection (P less than 0.01). The median time interval between the first symptom and the onset of encephalopathy was 16, 13 and 8 days in HAV, HBV and non-A, non-B groups, respectively, but this difference was statistically not significant (P greater than 0.05). PMID- 2518792 TI - Non-A, non B hepatitis in Iraq. PMID- 2518793 TI - The need for a "resource consumption profile" for monitoring patient care. AB - The implementation of a DRG-based payment system in the United States relied on a stream of data which already existed, namely that of patient billing data. The growing interest outside of the United States in a diagnosis-based payment system will, at some point, require hospitals to generate patient-specific resource consumption profiles (RCPs) for setting hospital payment rates, and budgeting. Our experience has been that the RCPs can be used for extremely specific quality assurance studies as well. PMID- 2518794 TI - Prediction of medication error probability based on patient characteristics. AB - This paper describes the development of a model for classifying the patient population into risk groups according to their medication error probability. The methodology utilizes patient demographic and health care data combined with medication error reports. Variable selection is based on a measure of the amount of information that they provide. Using data from a 360-bed hospital, the model identified patient characteristics related to the health care services received as being the main variables related to medication error probability and divided the patient population into three risk groups defined in terms of these characteristics. The model provides information valuable to risk management and quality assurance efforts in the areas of detection of risk exposure, performance monitoring and resource allocation. PMID- 2518795 TI - Induction of a novel damage-specific DNA binding protein correlates with enhanced DNA repair in primate cells. AB - Pretreatment of mammalian cell with DNA-damaging agents, such as UV light or mitomycin C, but not the tumor promoter 12-O-tetradecanoyl-phorbol-13-acetate (TPA), results in the enhanced repair of subsequently transfected UV-damaged expression vectors. To determine the cellular factors that are responsible for this enhancement, we have used a modified gel retardation assay to detect the proteins that interact with damaged DNA. We have identified a constitutive DNA binding protein in extracts from primate cells that has a high affinity for UV irradiated double-stranded DNA. Cells pretreated with UV light, mitomycin C, or aphidicolin, but not TPA or serum starvation, have higher levels of this damage specific DNA binding (DDB) protein. These results suggest that the signal for induction of DDB protein can either be damage to the DNA or interference with cellular DNA replication. The induction of DDB protein varies among primate cells with different phenotypes: (1) virus-transformed repair-proficient cells have partially or fully lost the ability to induce DDB protein above constitutive levels; (2) primary cells from repair-deficient xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) group C, and transformed XP groups A and D, show constitutive DDB protein, but do not show induced levels of this protein 48 h after UV; and (3) primary and transformed repair-deficient cells from one XP E patient are lacking both the constitutive and the induced DDB activity. The correlation between the induction of the DDB protein and the enhanced repair of UV-damaged expression vectors implies the involvement of the DDB protein in this inducible cellular response. PMID- 2518796 TI - Expression of lactase during development. PMID- 2518797 TI - Polymorphisms of the immunoglobulin heavy-chain delta gene and association with other constant-region genes. AB - Polymorphisms have previously been reported for the C mu, C alpha, C epsilon, and C gamma genes of the immunoglobulin heavy-chain (IGH) gene cluster. Here we report polymorphisms of the IGH C delta gene region, observed using the enzymes ApaI, AvaII, TaqI, and XbaI. The TaqI and XbaI polymorphisms were used in an investigation of linkage disequilibrium throughout the cluster of constant-region genes. The TaqI polymorphism, located 5' to the C delta gene, is in linkage disequilibrium with a polymorphism of the C mu switch region. The XbaI polymorphism, which is in the vicinity of the C delta 2 exon, is not strongly associated with any other polymorphisms, including the TaqI polymorphism and the Gm polymorphism of C gamma 3. Although there is a high degree of association between most genes of the IGH region, there is a lack of association between C delta and C gamma 3, which may indicate a hot spot for recombination. PMID- 2518799 TI - Superovulation and the luteal phase. PMID- 2518798 TI - Surgical and postoperative infections. PMID- 2518800 TI - Pathology of pregnancy and systemic disorders. PMID- 2518801 TI - Contraception. PMID- 2518802 TI - Cumulative quarterly hospital statistics. April 1-September 30, 1988. PMID- 2518803 TI - Hospital annual statistics. Hospital indicators, 1986-87. PMID- 2518804 TI - Serum and urinary zinc in fulminant hepatic failure. AB - Patients with chronic hepatic encephalopathy have been shown to have low serum zinc levels. Moreover, in a controlled study, significant improvement was seen in these patients on oral zinc supplementation. Information on zinc status in fulminant hepatic failure is insufficient. Serum and urinary zinc abnormalities were studied in 22 patients with fulminant hepatic failure (FHF) and they were compared with age- and sex-matched controls. The mean serum zinc values were significantly less in patients with FHF (72.7 +/- 3.7 micrograms/100 mL versus 107.9 +/- 6.2 micrograms/mL) while the urinary zinc values were significantly higher compared with controls (603.5 +/- 9.3 micrograms/24 h versus 334.4 +/- 10 micrograms/24 h). The serum zinc levels significantly and progressively decreased, while urinary zinc significantly increased after admission in patients with FHF. The serum zinc values in the group that survived were significantly higher than those in the group of patients who died. Correspondingly, urinary zinc was lower in survivors than in the group that expired. This study indicates that serum and urinary zinc levels could be used as a prognostic indicator in FHF. A therapeutic trial with zinc supplementation is justified in this group of patients. PMID- 2518805 TI - [Mucopolysaccharidosis type I, Hurler's syndrome]. AB - A 5-year-old girl with a very rare autosomal recessive disease, Hurler's syndrome, is described. This is a progressive disease and the main symptoms, typical for metabolic disorders of mucopolysaccharides were present. Only intransprarent cornea was not manifest, as it usually appears in advanced age. Dental examination confirmed the following symptoms: hypertrophic alveolar process; spaced, carious teeth; long tongue; enamel hypoplasia; hypocalcification; open teeth occlusion, etc. The prognosis is characterized by aggravation of symptoms till death in the second decade of life. The therapy is symptomatic. PMID- 2518806 TI - Gall-bladder emptying. PMID- 2518807 TI - Transient abnormality in carbohydrate metabolism during enterically transmitted non-A, non-B acute viral hepatitis. AB - Blood glucose, plasma insulin and free fatty acids (FFA) responses, during the 2 h oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) with 75 g of dextrose, were measured in 30 consecutive patients with acute enterically transmitted non-A, non-B hepatitis. All of these parameters during the OGTT were compared with 10 age-, sex- and weight-matched healthy volunteers from the same community. The fasting blood sugar, insulin and FFA were not different from normal controls (P greater than 0.05). According to the WHO criteria, the blood glucose response during OGTT in these patients was normal in 23%, impaired in 33% and diabetic in 43%. There was significant hyperinsulinaemia (P less than 0.001) in patients with impaired and diabetic GGT and it persisted even at the end of 2 h. None of the abnormal liver function tests correlated with blood sugar, insulin and FFA response during the OGTT. All abnormal responses during the OGTT were, however, transient and returned to normal in all the patients after the recovery from acute hepatitis. PMID- 2518808 TI - AP1, a composite transcription factor implicated in abnormal growth control. AB - Growth factors activate cascades of intracellular events, some of which result in altered gene expression. A series of recent discoveries have highlighted the role of the transcription factor AP1 as a mediator of the effects of growth factors, as well as those of oncogenes and the tumour promoter TPA. We discuss the molecular composition of AP1, how its activity is thought to be regulated, and the evidence that AP1 activation is involved in transformation. PMID- 2518809 TI - G-proteins and second messengers in mitogenesis. AB - Growth factors stimulate mitogenesis via the generation of signal molecules or events. Transduction of these messages into the cell proceeds by the binding of the mitogen to a specific cell surface receptor which then stimulates the effector system (enzyme, ion channel, etc.) via a guanine nucleotide binding regulatory protein (G-protein). The specificity of a particular G-protein is a function of its unique alpha-subunit. This article reviews the effects of different growth factors upon second messenger generation and discusses the involvement of the different G-proteins in these signal transduction pathways. PMID- 2518810 TI - [Post-transfusional non-A non-B hepatitis. Evaluation of SGPT screening in blood donors]. AB - The incidence of non-A, non-B hepatitis is 10% of post-transfusion hepatitis (PTH), and more than 30% of this occurrence could be prevented with SGPT screening. We have been studying from 1984 this surrogate test in order to prevent non-A, non-B post-transfusion hepatitis. Reported data suggest this screening in all blood donors. PMID- 2518811 TI - [Comparison of methods for the demonstration of Treponema-specific IgM]. AB - In this research 113 sera have been analysed with three methods for IgM treponema specific determination: IgM-SPHA, IgM-EIA and 19S IgM FTA-ABS. Among these sera, 33 samples related to non-treated patients at different stages of infection, and 80 samples to treated patients. The results point out a light sensibility of the IgM-SPHA in primary lues. The IgM-EIA test has performed a good specificity, but displayed a sensibility lower to the 19S IgM FTA-ABS, which proved the best of tests. About the cases of treated lues at different stages, in 23 samples with VDRL negative has been found no positivity at three tests used, while in 49 samples with VDRL positive 8 are resulted positive at 19S IgM FTA-ABS. PMID- 2518812 TI - Preparation of high purity IgG and its application in screening for clones positive for Vibrio succinogenes L-asparaginase gene. AB - A previous paper reported application of L-asparaginase IgG from Vibrio succinogenes in screening for positive clones. This paper describes the detailed procedure for preparation of high-purity IgG, an essential step of which involves coupling of a cell-free extract of host E. coli Y 1090 to Sepharose 4B beads and adsorption of the non-specific antigen components by passage of the polyvalent IgG through this affinity column. The IgG thus obtained exhibited improved specificity and was utilized as a radioimmunologic and horseradish peroxidase linked immunologic probe in screening for positive clones. These IgG probes had the advantages of low background, high sensitivity, and good reliability. PMID- 2518813 TI - Cytochemical localization of beta-(1----4)-D-glucans in plant and fungal cells using an exoglucanase-gold complex. AB - An exoglucanase (exo-1,4-beta-glucanase), purified from a cellulase produced by the fungus Trichoderma harzianum, was tagged with colloidal gold particles and applied on plant and fungal tissue sections for localizing beta-(1----4)-linked glucans. The present review reports the conditions required for the preparation of this enzyme-gold complex and for its application in transmission electron microscopy. The exoglucanase-gold complex was found to be a powerful probe for labelling accurately cellulosic glucans in tissues processed under conventional procedures. This approach represents a promising alternative to previous methods such as autoradiography or subtractive cytochemistry in the study of wall topochemistry. It will undoubtedly acquire increasing applicability and relevance in various fields of plant science including physiology and pathology. PMID- 2518814 TI - Quarterly hospital statistics--April 1-June 30, 1988. PMID- 2518815 TI - Hospital statistics--preliminary annual hospital statistics 1987-88 and list of Canadian hospitals 1988. PMID- 2518816 TI - Residential care facilities 1986-87. PMID- 2518817 TI - [Esophago-tracheal fistulas: report of a case]. AB - The authors report the first case in Senegal of an esophagotracheal fistula isolated in a suckling child 1,1/2 months old, and stress: the clinical profile and the rarity of this deformity; the difficulties of providing for such patients in view of the close medico-surgical collaboration required. PMID- 2518818 TI - [Macrophage activation and Mycobacterium leprae: effect of interferon gamma on the production of oxygen free radicals by phagocytic cells]. AB - Activation of the respiratory metabolic channel (F.O.R.), responsible in part for the bactericidal effect, was measured in vitro by a chemoluminescence test on circulating phagocytes. All mycobacteria tested, except for Mycobacterium leprae, induced a significant response. Its effect on lepromatous leprosy pathology is a subject for discussion. PMID- 2518820 TI - Molecular study on nosocomial Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains. AB - Nosocomial Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates were typed by DNA fingerprinting techniques. Chromosomal DNA banding patterns, after endonuclease digestion, of six isolates from a neonatal care unit confirmed the results of O-serotyping and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern analysis. In contrast, the characterization by chromosomal DNA fingerprinting of P. aeruginosa strains isolated from patients treated in a burn unit disagreed with the two classic typing methods: in fact, isolates that varied in serotype and antibiograms showed identical restriction endonuclease profiles, whereas two indistinguishable isolates cultured from individual patients were easily and reproducibly differentiated by molecular analysis. PMID- 2518819 TI - Assessment of cervical cancer screening and follow-up programs. AB - There is essentially no debate about the benefits of cervical cancer screening. The current debate centers around periodicity, the appropriate interval for repeated testing, and the age at which screening should be discontinued. As the frequency of screening is increased within a defined population, there is a gain in survival (life-years) depending upon the risk status of the population segment screened. However, each increment in survival comes at an increasingly high cost. Significant gains have been made in improving screening and detection services through widespread availability of the Papanicolaou test. However, there has been concern raised that the cost-effectiveness of cervical cancer screening has not been clearly demonstrated. This report analyzes the current status of the literature on screening for cervical cancer with a focus on cost-effectiveness and cost-benefit analyses of screening using the Pap test. A relatively small group of studies was located which directly addressed the cost-effectiveness question. All of the studies cited attempted in some manner to describe the relationship between benefits of cervical cancer screening and costs. Two studies reported a program design with net positive monetary benefits, while one estimated that the direct cost of medical care avoided through screening was approximately equal to the cost of the screening program. In general, however, screening for cervical cancer is viewed as an investment in extending life (a net cost per year of life gained). Most analysts ascribe a net monetary cost to cervical cancer screening programs. Then the question becomes one of cost effectiveness--designing a program so as to optimize the result obtained. With respect to optimizing screening, the literature leaves no doubt of the value of cervical cancer screening in general. From a cost-effectiveness perspective, screening no more frequently than every 3-5 years appears reasonable. It is important to think in terms of a total program and how effectively the population at risk is being reached. The literature reviewed spans a period of more than twenty years and reflects studies across the globe. While the quality is uneven, from this body of work a consensus emerges: screening is effective, but the frequency of screening in the United States is probably too high. In addition, those who are most intensively screened are probably at the lowest risk. Outreach and targeting of at-risk population groups needs to be addressed in order to improve cost-effectiveness of cervical cancer screening. The effectiveness of the screening technology (the Pap test) is taken for granted, but this may be a mistake.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2518821 TI - [Antibodies against Hantaan virus and Leptospira in subjects at risk in Rome]. AB - A survey on the prevalence of Hantaan and leptospiral antibodies on mammalogists and rodent control personnel was performed. None of the 66 trappers studied (using IFI ) had detectable Hantaan antibody, while only 2 out of 20 mammalogists presented antibody at low titer (1:32). For leptospiral antibody the microagglutination test (MAT) using live leptospires as antigen was performed. 14 out of 66 trappers, or 21.2 per cent, had antibodies, at titer of 1:50 or more, to various leptospiral serovars: L.icterohaemorrhagiae in 12 cases, L.hardjo in 1 case, L.bratislava in 1 case. On the contrary, none of the mammalogists showed positivity for any of 16 serovars used. The environmental risk factors could justify the high prevalence of leptospiral antibodies in the field workers (trappers), while continuous laboratory contacts with rodents explain the presence of Hantaan virus antibodies in mammalogists . PMID- 2518822 TI - Review article: the management of hepatitis A, B, D and non-A non-B. AB - This paper reviews the modern management of viral hepatitis: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, hepatitis D and non-A non-B hepatitis. It describes the treatment of uncomplicated acute viral hepatitis, complicated acute viral hepatitis, and chronic viral hepatitis. The roles for corticosteroids, synthetic nucleotides, and interferons are reviewed. Finally, passive and active immunization against viral hepatitis are discussed. PMID- 2518823 TI - [The dynamics of pulsatile LHRH (GnRH) secretion]. AB - A review of the features of RHLH, especially of the pulsating secretion, which is very important to the correct function of the reproduction system, is presented. Now it is accepted that this pulsating secretion is the producer of the episodic release of gonadotrophins, the gonadal steroids being the modulator of the frequency and the extent of the LHRH pulses. Several experiences showed that changes in the pulse frequency of GnRH, can dynamically modify the seric concentration of LH and FSH. PMID- 2518824 TI - [Paradoxical hypocalcemia in a case of multiple myeloma due to the coexistence of hypoparathyroidism]. PMID- 2518825 TI - [Pleural effusion as a form of presentation of Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia]. PMID- 2518826 TI - [Drug interactions in geriatrics. Apropos a case]. PMID- 2518827 TI - The immunoglobulin class, the subclass and the ratio of kappa:lambda light chain of autoantibodies to human insulin in insulin autoimmune syndrome. AB - The immunoglobulin class, subclass and the k:lambda light chain ratio of insulin autoantibodies were determined in the sera of twenty-four patients with insulin autoimmune syndrome. All sera proved to be of the IgG immunoglobulin class but exhibited various IgG1:IgG2:IgG3:IgG4 ratios. The ratio of k:lambda light chain ranged from 1:0.13 to 1:0.75 with the exceptions of two sera that were characterized as IgG1(k) and IgG1(lambda). PMID- 2518828 TI - Resistance to collagen-induced arthritis in DBA/1 mice by intraperitoneal administration of soluble type II collagen involves both CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes. AB - In this paper we report that intraperitoneal administration of type II collagen in a soluble form protects DBA/1 mice against collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) on subsequent arthritogenic challenge with soluble type II collagen in adjuvant. The degree of arthritis suppression, which is expressed in terms of reduced incidence of arthritis, delayed onset and reduced anti-collagen antibody titres, depends on the dose and timing of the pre-immunization collagen injection. In order to elucidate the roles of CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes subsets in arthritis resistance we administered monoclonal antibodies (mAb) to these antigenic determinants around the time of immunization with soluble type II collagen. Anti CD4 mAb caused abrogation of arthritis resistance while anti-CD8 mAb was less effective. However, administration of anti-CD8 mAb two weeks after pre immunization with soluble collagen was very effective in reversing arthritis resistance. From these findings we conclude that CD4+ and CD8+ T cells are involved in resistance to arthritis though the relative importance of each subset changes during the course of the process leading to resistance to CIA. PMID- 2518829 TI - Tumour necrosis factor synergises with gamma interferon on the induction of mRNA for DR alpha chain on thyrocytes from Graves' disease and non toxic goitre. AB - In both thyroid autoimmune diseases Graves' and Hashimoto's thyroiditis, the epithelial thyroid follicular cells (TFC) have been shown to express HLA class II molecules, and can restimulate autoreactive T cells cloned from the diseased tissue. This aberrant class II expression is important in the mechanism of perpetuation of the disease process, therefore we have compared the effect of interferon gamma (IFN gamma) and tumour necrosis factor (TNF alpha) on the HLA-DR alpha mRNA expression of thyroid follicular cells derived from Graves' disease (GD) and a non autoimmune disease, non toxic goitre (NTG). Our results indicate that TNF alpha synergises with IFN gamma in the induction of HLA class II mRNA. There was no consistent difference in DR alpha mRNA expression between the GD and NTG thyroid follicular cell preparations in response to induction by a combination of these lymphokines at various concentrations. Our data suggest that the differences in the level of expression of class II molecules observed in vivo in Graves' disease and non toxic goitre, which is much higher in the former, is probably due to local release of lymphokines by infiltrating T lymphocytes, although other factors may be involved. PMID- 2518830 TI - High potential to tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) production of thyroid infiltrating T lymphocytes in Hashimoto's thyroiditis: a peculiar feature of destructive thyroid autoimmunity. AB - T lymphocytes present in thyroid infiltrates of 6 patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) and of 4 patients with Graves' disease (GD) were analyzed at clonal level and their profiles of mitogen-induced lymphokine secretion were characterized. Production of interleukin-2 (IL-2), interleukin-4 (IL-4), interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) was measured in culture supernatants of a total number of 332 T cell clones (TCC) from HT, of 269 TCC from GD infiltrates and of 266 control TCC derived from normal lymphoid tissues. No significant difference was found in the ability to produce IL-2 between TCC from HT or GD infiltrates and control TCC. The proportion of HT- or GD-derived TCC able to produce IL-4 was extremely low (4 and 5%, respectively) in comparison with controls (19%). In contrast, the proportion of interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma)-producing (IFN-P) TCC derived from either HT (87%) or GD (80%) infiltrates was much higher (p less than 0.0005) than that found in controls (59%). In addition, most of IFN-P TCC from either HT or GD usually released higher amounts (p less than 0.002) of IFN-gamma than did control clones. No significant difference was found between GD infiltrates and controls in the proportions of TCC able to secrete TNF-alpha (39% and 47%, respectively), whereas the proportion of TNF-alpha-producing (TNF-P) TCC derived from HT (78%) was significantly higher (p less than 0.0001). In addition, most of both CD8 and CD4 TCC from HT released higher amounts of TNF-alpha than did TNF-P clones from controls or GD. These data suggest that T cells present in autoimmune thyroid infiltrates share a number of functions, such as high production of IFN-gamma, but differ with regard to their ability to secrete TNF alpha, which is peculiar of most T cells present in the thyroid of HT patients. PMID- 2518831 TI - Binding of monoclonal anti-DNA and anti-TB glycolipids to brain tissue. AB - The binding of human lupus anti-DNA antibodies and murine anti-mycobacterial antibodies to human cortical brain tissue sections was assessed by the indirect immunofluorescent technique. Prior adsorption of the reactive monoclonal antibodies on nuclear extracts, ss-DNA, synthetic polynucleotide polymers, histones, mycobacterial glycolipids, and bovine brain extracts abrogated the monoclonal antibodies' binding to the brain. Intermediate blocking activity was conferred also by ribonucleic components as RNP, Ro(SSA), and La(SSB). Specificity to neuronal tissue was demonstrated by failure of non-neuronal tissue extracts to abolish antibodies' reaction to the cortical tissue sections in competition assays. The anti-TB and anti-DNA antibodies seemed to compete on their binding to a common neuronal membranal epitope. These results indicate that mycobacteria share antigens with DNA and human brain tissue. Furthermore, these data support the concept that anti-DNA antibodies may play a pathogenetic role in SLE patients with neuropsychiatric involvement via crossing of a "leaky" blood brain barrier and attachment to brain tissue components. PMID- 2518832 TI - Mutations responsible for high light sensitivity in an atrazine-resistant mutant of Synechocystis 6714. AB - The primary target of photoinhibition is the photosystem II reaction center. The process involves a reversible damage, followed by an irreversible inhibition of photosystem II activity. During cell exposition to high light intensity, the D1 protein is specially degraded. An atrazine-resistant mutant of Synechocystis 6714, AzV, reaches the irreversible step of photoinhibition faster than wild-type cells. Two point mutations present in the psbA gene of AzV (coding for D1) lead to the modification of Phe 211 to Ser and Ala 251 to Val in D1. Transformation of wild-type cells with the AzV psbA gene shows that these two mutations are sufficient to induce a faster photodamage of PSII. Other DCMU- and/or atrazine resistant mutants do not differ from the wild type when photoinhibited. We conclude that the QB pocket is involved in PSII photodamage and we propose that the mutation of Ala 251 might be related to a lower rate of proteolysis of the D1 protein than in the wild type. PMID- 2518833 TI - Nucleotide sequence of the gene encoding the 33 kDa water oxidizing polypeptide in Anabaena sp. strain PCC 7120 and its expression in Escherichia coli. AB - The 33 kDa extrinsic polypeptide of photosystem II, also known as the manganese stabilizing polypeptide (MSP), is located on the lumen side of the thylakoid and is involved in water oxidation. The gene for MSP, designated woxA, has been cloned from the nitrogen-fixing filamentous cyanobacterium Anabaena and sequenced. The woxA open reading frame was found to be 819 bp. The deduced amino acid sequence was 63% and 59% homologous with that of Synechococcus and Synechocystis, respectively, and 44% conserved when compared to the MSP of spinach or pea. Two cysteine residues at positions 48 and 73 were found to be conserved in cyanobacteria and plants. The first 29 amino acids are hydrophobic and may represent the transit peptide. woxA: :phoA translational fusion products, in which the body of Escherichia coli alkaline phosphatase was fused to the amino terminal portion of woxA between residues 35 and 130, yielded active alkaline phosphatase in E. coli. Thus the transit peptide of woxA functions in E. coli to transport phosphatase across the cytoplasmic membrane. S1 mapping and primer extension experiments showed that the woxA transcription initiation site is located 220 bp upstream from the translational start. The woxA promoter has some resemblance to the E. coli consensus and other known Anabaena vegetative cell promoters. PMID- 2518835 TI - Influence of light on accumulation of photosynthesis-specific transcripts in the cyanobacterium Synechocystis 6803. AB - Transcript accumulation for the psbA, psbD, psbD-C, rbcL-S and rrn genes in Synechocystis 6803 was followed under different light conditions. psbA, psbD, psbD-C and rbcL-S transcripts required light to accumulate and the relative abundance of these transcripts differed between high and low light conditions. Under high light conditions, steady-state levels of psbA, psbD and psbD-C transcripts were higher while levels of rbcL-S transcripts were lower than under low light conditions. rrn transcripts accumulated in the dark and the transcript levels were the same under illuminated conditions. Analyses of constructed Synechocystis 6803 mutants showed that both psbA-2 and psbA-3 could produce high levels of transcripts under illuminated conditions. No psbA-1 transcripts were detected. PMID- 2518834 TI - Molecular analysis of psbA mutations responsible for various herbicide resistance phenotypes in Synechocystis 6714. AB - Mutations conferring herbicide resistance in 3 mutant strains of the cyanobacterium Synechocystis 6714 have been characterized by gene cloning and sequencing. The mutants display very different phenotypes: DCMU-IIA is DCMU resistant and atrazine-resistant, DCMU-IIB is DCMU-resistant and atrazine sensitive, and Az-V is DCMU-sensitive, atrazine-resistant and presents particular photoinhibition properties. These mutants were originally obtained either by one step selection (DCMU-IIA) or by two-step selection (DCMU-IIB and Az-V). psbA copies carrying herbicide resistance have been identified by transformation experiments as psb AI in all cases. Sequences of the psb AI copy of each mutant have been compared to the wild-type sequence. In the single mutant DCMU-IIA, a point mutation at codon 264 (Ser----Ala) results in resistance to both DCMU and atrazine. In the double mutants DCMU-IIB and Az-V, two point mutations were found. DCMU-IIB was derived from DCMU-IIA and had acquired a second mutation at codon 255 (Phe----Leu) resulting in a slight increase in DCMU resistance and complete abolition of atrazine resistance. Az-V contains two changes at codons 211 (Phe----Ser) and 251 (Ala----Val) resulting in high atrazine resistance but only slight DCMU resistance. PMID- 2518837 TI - Schistosomiasis in China. PMID- 2518836 TI - Nucleotide sequence of the psbB gene of Euglena gracilis. PMID- 2518838 TI - [Chronic hepatitis]. PMID- 2518839 TI - Occupational health nursing: a new century of promoting worker health. PMID- 2518840 TI - Hearing conservation: implementing and evaluating a program. AB - 1. More than eight million workers in the United States are affected by some noise-induced hearing loss. Noise pollution is a significant health hazard in the workplace today. 2. Occupational health nurses are in a key position to make tremendous contributions to the effectiveness of a hearing conservation program. 3. Cooperative efforts between management and labor are needed to prevent noise induced hearing loss. 4. A hearing conservation program is an effective instrument for preventing noise-induced occupational hearing loss, complying with governmental regulation, and controlling a company's compensation cost. PMID- 2518841 TI - An overview of occupational health promotion. AB - 1. Occupational health promotion has been institutionalized into many companies in the United States and new programs are being started up across the country. 2. Several stimuli affect this growth in programs, including cost-containment, employee recruitment, and governmental support. 3. It is essential that companies involved in occupational health promotion understand their reasons for espousing this trend. 4. Health promotion activities should be planned thoroughly and plans should especially address cost analyses and ethical issues early in the planning phase. PMID- 2518842 TI - Occupational stress among nurses in hospital settings. AB - 1. This study provides empirical evidence for the repeated statements by hospital nurses that their work situation is overwhelmingly stressful. 2. Stress seems to arise from the overall complexity of nurses' work rather than specific tasks required of nurses. 3. Stressors are uniform across clinical areas, especially with regard to perceived work pressure. 4. Among the most frequently cited stressors for nurses in nearly every hospital setting were "keeping track of many things"; "It is hard to predict what will happen each day"; and "Simple mistakes could have dire consequences." PMID- 2518843 TI - The distribution of HLA antigens in Italy. AB - Human histocompatibility (HLA) gene frequencies were studied in the Italian population. A random sample of healthy individuals born in several Italian regions and provinces was studied to estimate HLA-A, -B, -C and -DR gene frequencies using the maximum likelihood method. The goodness of fit to Hardy Weinberg proportions was evaluated by the likelihood ratio statistics. Different Italian regions and provinces show significant differences in the HLA alleles, providing further evidence for the genetic heterogeneity in the Italian population. This heterogeneity is also displayed by a synthetic geographical representation which uses colour to map the most informative gene differences. Statistically significant gametic associations between HLA-A, -B, -C and -DR loci are reported. The difference between northern and southern Italy and between continental Italy and Sardegna is clearly shown also by their heterogeneous linkage disequilibria. PMID- 2518844 TI - Serum protein polymorphisms (HP; TF-, GC- and PI-subtypes) in Sardinia. AB - Haptoglobin (HP), transferrin (TF), group-specific component (GC) and alpha-1 antitrypsin (PI) polymorphisms have been studied in Sardinia and the following gene frequencies have been found: HP*1 = 0.389, TF*C1 = 0.754, TF*C2 = 0.213, TF*C3 = 0.032, GC*1F = 0.193, GC*1S = 0.546, GC*2 = 0.260, PI*M1 = 0.607, PI*M2 = 0.221, PI*M3 = 0.126, PI*S = 0.040 and PI*Z = 0.006. These findings confirm the genetic uniqueness of Sardinians compared to the other Italian populations. PMID- 2518845 TI - The distribution of some polymorphisms in Italy. AB - A wide data collection on blood group gene frequencies in Italian regions and provinces is presented. This report is the result of a joint collaboration of human geneticists and forensic haematologists started in 1979 and updates a previous work by the same group. The following genetic polymorphisms have been examined: red-cell antigens (ABO, FY, Kell, Kidd, Lewis, Lutheran, MNSs, P, Rhesus), red-cell enzymes (ACP1, ADA, AK1, ESD, GLO1, GPT, PGD, PGM1), plasma proteins (BF, C3, GC, HP, IGK, PI, TF). Data have been classified according to genetic systems, Italian regions and provinces. Gene frequencies were estimated by the maximum likelihood method. The goodness of fit to Hardy-Weinberg proportions has been evaluated by the likelihood ratio statistics. Genetic heterogeneity of provinces and regions is reported. PMID- 2518846 TI - Review article: antibiotics and the gut. AB - Antibiotics have an important place in the management of gastrointestinal disease. Recent studies have demonstrated efficacy in acute bacterial gastroenteritis caused by salmonellae and campylobacteriaceae, shigellae and enterotoxigenic strains of E coli (ETEC). Tetracycline remains effective in cholera. Antibiotic resistance is widespread amongst the enteric pathogens and can quickly spread during epidemics of infective diarrhoeas. It is important that antibiotics are reserved for the treatment of serious infections lest their effectiveness in these conditions be lost. Campylobacter pylori appears to be an important cause of chronic active gastritis and is amenable to treatment with antibiotics and bismuth salts. The role of C. pylori in the pathogenesis of peptic ulcer disease is not yet established but there is mounting evidence that antibiotic treatment will have a place in the treatment of this common condition. The effect of antibiotics on the normal intestinal microflora can have serious consequences. It is a major cause of resistance in urinary tract pathogens, can result in outbreaks of hospital infection with resistant organisms and frequently results in C. difficile associated diarrhoea. PMID- 2518847 TI - Pharmacokinetics of a 5-aminosalicylic acid enteric-coated tablet and suppository dosage form. AB - An Eudragit-L coated oral 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA; mesalazine) product (Mesasal), has been formulated to deliver 5-ASA to the distal small intestine and colon for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. The purpose of this study was to compare the pharmacokinetic profile of this product to sulphasalazine (SASP; Salazopyrin) and to assess the pharmacokinetics of a suppository 5-ASA dosage form. Twelve healthy volunteers randomly received four single doses of 5 ASA delivering formulations not less than 1 week apart. (a) Mesasal tablets, 2 x 250 mg, fasting; (b) Mesasal tablets, 2 x 250 mg, fed; (c) Salazopyrin tablets, 3 x 500 mg (corresponding to 576 mg 5-ASA), fasting; and (d) Mesasal suppository, 1 x 500 mg, fasting. Plasma 5-ASA and acetyl-5-ASA (Ac-5-ASA) concentrations were followed for 48 h and urine and faecal concentrations for 72 h. Mesasal tablets (fasting) produced a greater area under the concentration-time curve (AUC), peak and time to peak for both plasma 5-ASA and Ac-5-ASA than Salazopyrin. Median urinary recovery values were 21.7% for Salazopyrin and 35.5% for Mesasal (fasting) (P less than 0.01). This means that the systemic absorption was higher after Mesasal than after Salazopyrin. The total faecal recovery values were 38.3 and 26.5%, respectively (NS). Except for a delay of 1.5-.3 h in the time to peak of 5-ASA and Ac-5-ASA plasma levels, the pharmacokinetics of Mesasal tablets were essentially the same in fasting or fed subjects. Suppository administration of 5 ASA resulted in a low median urinary recovery of 10.8%. PMID- 2518848 TI - Quadruple antimycobacterial chemotherapy in Crohn's disease: results at 9 months of a pilot study in 20 patients. AB - Twenty patients with active Crohn's disease, the majority refractory to conventional therapy, were treated with rifampicin, ethambutol, isoniazid, and pyrazinamide or clofazamine for 9 months. After this period, 10 were in remission (Crohn's disease activity index less than 150). Of the 10 not in remission, three had been at 6 months, but had relapsed on treatment. Nine of 10 patients on steroids at the beginning were off steroids at 9 months. Six patients came to surgery during the period, five for stricture formation without evidence of florid Crohn's disease outside the strictured segment. Three young patients with severe Crohn's disease facing total colectomy were spared surgery. No serious drug-related side-effects were encountered. The results of this pilot study suggest that controlled trials of antimycobacterial chemotherapy, using four or more of the best agents available, are worthy of assessment in Crohn's disease. PMID- 2518849 TI - Geographical differences of gastric ulcer healing rate in patients treated with ranitidine or placebo. AB - The literature was searched for clinical trials evaluating the use of 300 mg ranitidine daily in the acute treatment of gastric ulcer. All available trials were examined, and the results compared between countries to determine the extent of any geographical variation in ulcer healing rates. Published placebo studies in gastric ulcer were also reviewed for comparison. Sixty-six publications were inspected to determine the trial design, country of origin, gastric ulcer healing rates, determined endoscopically, and details of patient demography. Overall worldwide healing rates for ranitidine treatment were 63% at week 4 and 86% at week 8 (n = 2349 and 2256 respectively), compared with 34% at week 4 and 52% at week 8 for placebo (n = 790 and 231 respectively). Statistically significant differences were found between the healing rates for individual countries at week 4 (P less than 0.001) and week 8 (P less than 0.001). However, after exclusion of the results from Japan (35%, n = 278) and Yugoslavia (97%, n = 32) at week 4, and from Japan (80%, n = 467) and France (65%, n = 52) at week 8, the healing rates from the remaining countries were not statistically different from one another. The limited data available in relation to age, sex and smoking habits, or placebo healing rates contributed little to explaining these aberrant results. It is concluded that there is variation in gastric ulcer healing rates between countries, but only results from Japan seem to be out of line with the rest of the world. PMID- 2518850 TI - Octreotide (a somatostatin analogue) improves the quality of life in some patients with a short intestine. AB - Six patients with short intestine (jejunal length 25-70 cm) on long-term parenteral nutrition, needing 4-5 L of intravenous fluid daily, were given octreotide (a somatostatin analogue, SMS 201-995) to investigate whether it would reduce beneficially their secretory diarrhoea (3.6-6.9 kg/day). They consumed the same diet for 2 control days, followed by 2 test days. Octreotide was given intravenously, initially in a dose of 50 micrograms b.d. through the central feeding line. There was a significant reduction of daily stomal output (0.5-5.0 kg) and daily sodium and potassium output; however there was no significant change in energy absorption. The response to octreotide was greatest in those patients who absorbed least nutrients. A dose increase to 100 micrograms t.d.s. gave no further measurable benefit though the patients found it smoothed-out the post-prandial rise in stomal output. Two patients were continued on long-term octreotide therapy, which allowed for a daily reduction in intravenous fluid of 1 and 1.5 L. Octreotide's anti-secretory effect was found to have been maintained when it was retested in one patient after a year of continuous therapy. PMID- 2518851 TI - Repeated high oral doses of omeprazole do not affect intrinsic factor secretion: proof of a selective mode of action. AB - The effect of 60 mg oral omeprazole daily for 9 days on intrinsic factor and gastric acid secretion was studied in eight healthy volunteers. Gastric secretion studies were performed during saline and 0.1 M HCl perfusion before and after omeprazole administration. During dosing with omeprazole, basal gastric acid output diminished by 94%, and pentagastrin-stimulated acid output by 97%. Basal, peak and steady-state stimulated intrinsic factor output were unaffected by omeprazole. It is concluded that high oral doses of omeprazole suppress gastric acid secretion to very low levels but they do not affect intrinsic factor secretion. Intrinsic factor secretion was also unaffected by profound hypochlorhydria. PMID- 2518852 TI - The effect of tripotassium dicitrato bismuthate on pepsin activity. AB - We have studied the effect of tripotassium dicitrato bismuthate on the peptic activity of gastric juice, both basal and pentagastrin-stimulated, from five healthy volunteers using porcine pepsin solution as a control. Tripotassium dicitrato bismuthate showed no inhibition of the proteolytic activity of either the pure porcine or the human pepsin in the gastric juice. The ulcer healing efficacy of tripotassium dicitrato bismuthate is unlikely to be related to a gastric anti-protease effect. PMID- 2518853 TI - A comparison of metoclopramide and trimebutine on small bowel motility in humans. AB - Trimebutine meleate and metoclopramide increase small bowel motility. The present manometric study of the human normal interdigestive duodeno-jejunal motility demonstrated two different pharmacological effects in 15 healthy volunteers. Trimebutine constantly induced a premature phase 3 activity (0.81 +/- 0.4 min after a 100-mg intravenous injection) with patterns similar to spontaneous phase 3. Metoclopramide increased the motility index (contractile activity) during phase 2 without inducing a premature phase 3. No significant variations in plasma motilin concentration were noticed after either trimebutine or metoclopramide. The pancreatic polypeptide concentration rose significantly after metoclopramide injection. PMID- 2518854 TI - A pilot study of thymus extract in chronic non-A, non-B hepatitis. AB - In previous studies it has been suggested that activation of cellular immunity may have a role in controlling the activity of chronic non-A, non-B liver disease. We conducted a pilot study of therapy with a bovine thymus extract for 6 weeks in 15 consecutive patients with chronic non-A, non-B hepatitis, most of them sporadic cases. Treatment induced immunomodulation, and in five patients a significant but transient diminution in aminotransferase levels was observed associated with increments in several parameters of cellular immunity. This suggests that a longer administration of this or other related compounds, or treatment with a more potent immunomodulating agent, might be effective in these patients. PMID- 2518855 TI - Does misoprostol given as a single large dose improve its antisecretory effect? AB - H2-receptor antagonists have been shown to be effective in the suppression of nocturnal acidity. This double-blind, randomized, crossover Latin-square study of 24-h intragastric pH in 12 normal volunteers investigated the effect of large single-dose administration of misoprostol on intragastric acidity. Efficacy of 800 micrograms misoprostol h.s., 600 micrograms h.s., 400 micrograms h.s. and 800 micrograms after supper was compared to placebo and 200 micrograms misoprostol q.d.s. Twenty-four hour mean pH +/- s.d. was placebo 2.1 +/- 0.3, misoprostol 200 micrograms q.d.s. Twenty-four hour mean pH +/- s.d. was placebo 2.1 +/- 0.3, misoprostol 200 micrograms q.d.s. 2.2 +/- 0.3, 800 micrograms p.m. 2.6 +/- 1.1, 400 micrograms h.s. 2.6 +/- 0.7, 600 micrograms h.s. 2.6 +/- 0.4, 800 micrograms h.s. 2.6 +/- 0.5. The effect of misoprostol on gastric acidity was short and limited to the nocturnal period. Only misoprostol 800 micrograms and 600 micrograms reduced 24-h acidity compared to placebo (P less than 0.04). PMID- 2518856 TI - Results of pharmacokinetic studies with De-Noltab. PMID- 2518857 TI - Omeprazole (20 mg o.m.) versus ranitidine (150 mg b.d.) in duodenal ulcer healing and pain relief. AB - The object of this double-blind, multicentre study was to compare duodenal ulcer healing rates after 2 to 4 weeks of treatment with either 20 mg omeprazole o.m. or 150 mg ranitidine b.d. One hundred and eighty-one patients were randomized: 91 received omeprazole and 90 received ranitidine. In a per protocol analysis at 2 weeks, 63% of the patients were healed on omeprazole and 65% of the patients were healed on ranitidine (N.S.); at 4 weeks 91% were healed in the omeprazole group and 96% were healed in the ranitidine group. There were no differences in ulcer symptom relief between the two groups. There were no significant changes in laboratory values in either of the groups. Adverse events were few and mainly mild and transient. We conclude that both omeprazole (20 mg o.m.) and ranitidine (150 mg b.d.) result in rapid, ulcer healing rates. PMID- 2518858 TI - Effects of the glucosidase inhibitor acarbose in patients with liver cirrhosis. AB - In this preliminary study, we examined the effects of acarbose and placebo together with a standardized breakfast on blood glucose levels, on breath hydrogen excretion and on plasma insulin and glucagon levels; in addition, the effects on fasting blood levels of metabolites were studied following an evening meal with acarbose or placebo. Acarbose significantly reduced blood glucose levels in 10 patients with alcoholic cirrhosis following a meal containing 100 g of carbohydrate. There were no significant changes in plasma insulin after breakfast but glucagon levels were increased at 1 h after the meal. Breath hydrogen excretion did not change significantly. Acarbose given with a late evening snack reduced fasting beta-hydroxybutyrate levels the next morning in these cirrhotic patients. PMID- 2518860 TI - The effects of fasting on 24-h gastric secretion of patients with duodenal ulcers resistant to ranitidine. AB - We compared the effects of fasting and feeding on the antisecretory actions of ranitidine in 19 patients whose duodenal ulcers remained unhealed or relapsed despite treatment with the drug. Nine of the patients received, and continued with, 150 mg ranitidine b.d. and 10 took 300 mg ranitidine b.d. In all patients, gastric secretion was inhibited during the night, with near-neutral pH and acid output less than an average of 2 mmol in 8 h. Gastric secretion was not inhibited during the day by either of the therapeutic regimens. However, on the day when the patients fasted, gastric acidity was, on average, 20-50 mmol/L less than on the day when food was consumed. Food-induced interference with the therapeutic inhibition of gastric secretion produced by H2-receptor antagonists may be responsible for the unsatisfactory clinical response of some patients with duodenal ulcers. Prolonged fasting can improve the control of gastric secretion and may allow resistant ulcers to heal. PMID- 2518859 TI - Comparison of 40 mg famotidine nightly and 150 mg ranitidine b.d.: ulcer healing and symptom relief in benign gastric ulcer. AB - Two hundred and eight patients with benign gastric ulcers seen on endoscopy were recruited by 13 hospitals in the United Kingdom and Ireland into this double blind study. Patients were assigned by pre-randomized schedule to 8 weeks of treatment with either 40 mg famotidine at night or 150 mg ranitidine b.d. Repeat endoscopy confirmed complete ulcer healing in 62 of 77 evaluable patients in the famotidine group (81%) and 58 of 71 in the ranitidine group (82%). The treatments were equally effective in promptly relieving day and night pain. Adverse events were uncommon; dizziness and headaches were the most frequently reported in both groups. In conclusion, night-time famotidine is as effective as twice daily ranitidine in healing benign gastric ulcers and provides similarly rapid symptomatic relief. PMID- 2518861 TI - Nature and time-course of piroxicam-induced injury to human gastric mucosa. AB - The nature and time-course of acute piroxicam-induced gastric mucosal injury was determined in ten healthy volunteers treated with 10 mg piroxicam twice daily by mouth for 21 days. Mucosal injury was measured endoscopically by visual analogue scales and by the method of Lanza, and luminal blood loss by haemoglobin measurements in gastric washings, 10 h after the first drug dose and then after 5, 10 and 21 days. Acute mucosal injury, consisting mainly of haemorrhagic lesions in the gastric body, developed to a maximum extent within 10 h of the first dose of piroxicam, and did not increase thereafter. By contrast intraluminal bleeding increased little for 10 days and then rose significantly at 21 days, when plasma piroxicam levels reached values likely to affect platelet function. We conclude that gastric mucosal injury and bleeding may be dissociated and may constitute different targets for prophylaxis. Gastric mucosal injury is probably exerted topically as it is maximal at low plasma drug concentrations, whereas bleeding may arise because of interference with platelet-dependent mechanisms. PMID- 2518862 TI - A comparison of low-dose maintenance treatment with enprostil against ranitidine in the prevention of duodenal ulcer recurrence. AB - Enprostil, a prostaglandin E2 analogue, is effective in healing acute duodenal ulcer but its value in preventing recurrence, when given daily for maintenance therapy, is uncertain. In this three-centre study we compared enprostil and ranitidine maintenance therapy; the latter is known to reduce duodenal ulcer relapse rates. Patients whose duodenal ulcers had been healed by treatment with an H2-receptor antagonist were randomized to receive single-blind treatment with either 35 micrograms enprostil (n = 64) or 150 mg ranitidine (n = 64) at bedtime for periods of up to 1 year. Endoscopy was routinely performed at 3 months at one centre, and at 6 and 12 months at all three centres, or whenever ulcer symptoms recurred. Clinical assessment and laboratory investigations were performed every 3 months. Relapse, defined as recurrent ulcer with or without pain, or erosions with pain, was significantly greater in patients on enprostil, the comparative rates at 3, 6 and 12 months were: enprostil 23, 31 and 36% ranitidine 6, 12 and 17% (P = 0.013; P = 0.03 and P = 0.03, respectively). Thirty-one patients reported adverse events, the most common being headache (enprostil = 6, ranitidine = 2) and mild diarrhoea (enprostil = 6, ranitidine = 0). Four patients on enprostil were withdrawn for adverse events, although none terminated because of diarrhoea. There were no clinically significant changes in haematology or biochemistry. Enprostil may reduce duodenal ulcer relapse but at a dose of 35 micrograms nightly, it is less effective than 150 mg ranitidine nightly. PMID- 2518863 TI - Ranitidine maintenance treatment of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug-induced duodenal ulceration. AB - Fifty-six patients who presented with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug associated duodenal ulcers received maintenance treatment with ranitidine. Forty eight of these patients stopped treatment with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The cumulative symptomatic remission at the end of 5 years of maintenance treatment was 97.7%. While half the patients had presented with haemorrhage from the ulcer, only one patient bled during maintenance treatment, giving a cumulative risk of 2.3% in 5 years of maintenance treatment. We conclude that maintenance treatment with ranitidine effectively and safely keeps patients with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug-associated ulcers symptom- and risk-free. PMID- 2518864 TI - Single night-time doses of 40 mg famotidine or 800 mg cimetidine in the treatment of duodenal ulcer. AB - Famotidine (40 mg) and 800 mg cimetidine as single night-time doses were compared in a randomized, double-blind, multicentre study of acute treatment for duodenal ulceration. Fifteen centres recruited 304 patients into the study. Of these, 274 were included for analysis, with 136 receiving famotidine and 138 receiving cimetidine. After 4 weeks, 75% of the patients who received famotidine and 77% of the patients who received cimetidine were healed. At 6 weeks the cumulative healing rates were 91% with famotidine and 87% with cimetidine. Differences between the groups were not significant at 4 or 6 weeks. No significant difference in healing rates between smokers and non-smokers was found. Day and night pain resolved rapidly in both groups. Both treatments were well-tolerated; adverse events were reported in 17 patients on famotidine and 18 on cimetidine, with headache the most frequent event in both groups. Famotidine is effective and well-tolerated in the short-term treatment of duodenal ulcer. PMID- 2518865 TI - Review article: mechanisms of drug release from tablets and capsules. 2. Dissolution. AB - Optimal drug dissolution is crucial to the success of oral drug therapy. Slow dissolution has frequently been correlated with poor or erratic performance of oral dosage forms in vivo, and drugs of low aqueous solubility provide a major challenge to the designer of modern oral dosage forms. In this second of two reviews, we briefly describe the physical process of dissolution, the principal factors controlling drug dissolution from tablets and capsules, and the strategies that are utilized by pharmaceutical scientists to enhance drug dissolution of orally administered drugs. PMID- 2518866 TI - Prolonged inhibition of meal-stimulated acid secretion and gastrin release following single subcutaneous administration of octreotide (SMS 201-995) in man. AB - Single subcutaneous doses of the somatostatin analogue, SMS 201-995, were evaluated for the degree and duration of effects on acid secretion, serum gastrin levels, and gastric emptying in eight human male subjects (mean age 44 years) over an 8-h period. All the subjects received subcutaneous 50-micrograms and 100 micrograms doses of SMS 201-995 and placebo on three separate days in a double blind random order. Drug or placebo was administered at time 0 followed by peptone meals at time 0, 2, 4, and 6-h. Peptone meals were evacuated at time 1, 3, 5 and 7-h to create 'basal' conditions between alternate hours. Gastric acid secretion was determined hourly beginning at time--1. Both the 50-micrograms and 100-micrograms doses of SMS 201-995 significantly inhibited 'basal' and peptone meal-stimulated gastric acid secretion throughout the 8-h measurement period. The minimum effective plasma concentration of SMS 201-995 for inhibition of peptone meal-stimulated gastric acid secretion was approximately 1000 pg/ml. Peptone meal stimulated plasma gastrin concentrations were inhibited for 5 and 7 h after 50 micrograms and 100-micrograms doses of SMS 201-995, respectively, whereas 'basal' plasma gastrins were inhibited for 4 and 6 h, respectively. Gastric emptying determined by marker dilution was not significantly enhanced compared to placebo. These results indicate prolonged and potent effects of single subcutaneous doses of SMS 201-995 on peptone-meal stimulated acid secretion and gastrin release. PMID- 2518868 TI - The effect of cisapride on defaecation in normal human subjects--lack of effect on faecal excretion of water, fat, and bile acids. AB - In order to elucidate whether or not the increased stool frequency that occurs during cisapride treatment is a result of malabsorption of water, fat, and bile acids, 12 healthy volunteers were dosed with either tablets of placebo q.d.s. or tablets of 10 mg cisapride q.d.s. during two periods of 5 days in a double-blind, crossover study. Stool frequency, stool consistency, and side-effects were recorded each day. Total faecal mass, faecal water content, and faecal excretion of fat and bile acids were determined during the last 72 h of each study period. Mean daily stool frequency was 18.8% higher during cisapride [1.68 +/- 0.12 (S.E.M.)] administration than during placebo (1.42 +/- 0.12); P = 0.038. The stool consistency score increased by 11.8% towards softer stools during cisapride dosing (N.S.). There were no significant differences in total faecal mass (placebo 399.4 g/72 h; cisapride; 414.5 g/72 h), faecal water content (placebo; 75.6%: cisapride 76.2%), or faecal excretion of fat (placebo; 12.7 g/72 h: cisapride; 11.6 g/72 h) and total bile acids (placebo; 2212 mumol/72 h: cisapride; 2261 mumol/72 h). The side-effects reported during placebo were constipation (n = 3), and during cisapride meteorism (n = 4) and increased appetite (n = 2). The increased stool frequency during cisapride treatment is not caused by malabsorption of water, fat, or bile acids, but seems to be the consequence of a direct motor effect. PMID- 2518867 TI - Effects of cisapride on ano-rectal sphincter function. AB - To investigate the effects of cisapride, a motility-inducing agent, on ano-rectal sphincter functions, standard manometry was performed in 10 healthy male volunteers after 5 days on a 20-mg dose of cisapride in a placebo-controlled double-blind randomized crossover fashion. All subjects kept stool diaries during the experiment. Cisapride significantly increased stool frequency by adding soft and liquid stools; in addition, anal resting pressure was reduced with cisapride in seven of the 10 subjects; mean resting pressure decreased by 16%, while all other measurements were not altered. This suggests that cisapride may act directly on the smooth muscle of the internal anal sphincter. It also supports the view that enhanced defaecation in chronic constipation induced by cisapride may not be achieved by propulsive motor activity in the colon but also by a decreased anal sphincter tone. PMID- 2518869 TI - Safety and efficacy of acetarsol suppositories in unresponsive proctitis. AB - In a prospective open study, 10 patients with intractable proctitis were treated with acetarsol suppositories (250 mg b.d. for 4 weeks) and were monitored clinically, biochemically and toxicologically. Proctitis resolved symptomatically and sigmoidoscopically within 2 weeks in nine patients; one patient was unaffected. The only side-effect was of transient thrombocytosis in a single patient. Maximal blood and urinary arsenic concentrations occurred after 1 week's treatment with a total inorganic arsenic in the hazardous range in six patients; subsequent concentrations fell despite continuing therapy and at 4 weeks potentially hazardous values persisted in only two patients. Continued renal excretion and diminished absorption across an improved rectal mucosa is thought to be responsible for this paradox. Arsenic levels fell rapidly when acetarsol was withdrawn and were indistinguishable from pretreatment values within 4 weeks. Short-term acetarsol therapy offers a useful additional measure when local steroids have failed to control ulcerative proctitis; it appears to be safe and formal controlled comparisons with other therapeutic options are therefore legitimate. PMID- 2518870 TI - Efficacy of a standard United Kingdom oral rehydration solution (ORS) and a hypotonic ORS assessed by human intestinal perfusion. AB - Human triple-lumen intestinal perfusion was used to compare water and solute absorption from the oral rehydration solution (ORS) most widely used in the United Kingdom and a new experimental hypotonic ORS (HYPO-ORS). HYPO-ORS (osmolality 210 mOsm/kg) promoted significantly greater water absorption than UK ORS (7.03 +/- 1.1 vs 2.73 +/- 1.0 ml cm-1 h-1; P less than 0.01). HYPO-ORS produced net sodium and chloride absorption whereas the low sodium UK-ORS produced a net secretion of these ions. Bicarbonate absorption was also greater from HYPO-ORS although potassium and glucose absorption were similar from both solutions. This study suggests that UK-ORS may not promote optimal water and solute absorption and that clinical studies with HYPO-ORS are indicated. PMID- 2518871 TI - Acute treatment of benign gastric ulcer with once-daily bedtime dosing of cimetidine compared with placebo. AB - This multicentre, double-blind study evaluated the efficacy of cimetidine 800 mg nocte compared to placebo for ulcer healing and pain relief in patients with endoscopically confirmed, benign gastric ulcers treated for up to 8 weeks. Cimetidine accelerated ulcer healing throughout the study. More cimetidine treated patients (35 of 82, 43%) than placebo-treated patients (26 of 79, 33%) had healed ulcers after 4 weeks of therapy. Similarly, after 6 and 8 weeks of treatment, cimetidine continued to have superior healing rates, 76% (59 of 78, P = 0.02) and 91% (69 of 76, P = 0.02) heal rates for cimetidine recipients compared with 58% (42 of 73) and 74% (52 of 70) for placebo. For every week of the study except the second, a greater proportion of cimetidine-treated patients were free of daytime and night-time pain than placebo-treated patients; the differences were statistically significant for night-time pain. Adverse reaction profiles were similar for the cimetidine and placebo groups. In conclusion, cimetidine 800 mg nocte was comparably safe and significantly more effective than placebo in accelerating healing and relieving pain in the treatment of acute, benign gastric ulcer. PMID- 2518872 TI - Acute damage of gastroduodenal mucosa by acetylsalicylic acid: no prolonged protection by antacids. AB - Twenty healthy volunteers participated in a double-blind, crossover study to evaluate endoscopically whether low-dose antacids have any prolonged and pH independent protective capacity against gastroduodenal mucosal damage induced by acetylsalicylic acid. Antacid or placebo one tablet q.d.s. was given for 1.5 days. Acetylsalicylic acid (1.5 g) was administered 3 h after the last dose of antacid/placebo, and gastroscopy was performed 1 h thereafter. Thirteen of 20 subjects showed a decrease in total damage with antacids as compared with placebo, but the difference did not reach statistical significance. Thus, protection by antacids against acetylsalicylic acid-induced gastric mucosal lesions could not be documented at a time when intragastric pH presumably had returned to normal. PMID- 2518875 TI - [Continuing education and primary health care]. PMID- 2518873 TI - pH-profile and regional transit times of the normal gut measured by a radiotelemetry device. AB - The pH of the gut lumen was measured in 39 healthy persons using a pH-sensitive, radiotransmitting capsule. Thirteen persons were studied twice. The location of the capsule was determined by X-ray. The pH rose from 6.4 in the duodenum to 7.3 in the distal part of the small intestine. In 17 persons the pH dropped by 0.1 0.8 pH units during the last hours of the small intestinal transit. The pH was 5.7 in the caecum, but rose to 6.6 in the rectum. Gastric residence time was 1.1 h, small intestinal transit was 8 h, and colonic transit time was 17.5 h (median values). The results provide a firmer basis for prediction of the level, and the rate of release of active substance from pH-dependent sustained-release oral preparations. PMID- 2518874 TI - A double-blind placebo-controlled trial of omeprazole on characteristics of the migrating motor complex in healthy volunteers. AB - The aim of the study was to investigate a possible effect of omeprazole on the characteristics of the migrating motor complex. The study was performed as a double-blind crossover study and the pressure recordings were performed after 3 days of treatment with placebo or omeprazole 40 mg o.m. The calculations were based on 5 h of recording in each subject and in both investigations. There were two characteristics in the omeprazole group which were significantly different from placebo. Firstly, duodenal phase III was more often accompanied by an antral phase III and secondly, the duration of duodenal phase III was increased. The results suggest that the rapid cleaning mechanism, represented by phase III activity, is more pronounced after omeprazole treatment, possibly arising from its antisecretory effect. PMID- 2518876 TI - [The use of programmed consultation and compliance with the appointment in a teaching program of family medicine. Prospective study of 2,627 cases]. AB - During the last years, systems of programmed consultation have been included in primary health care. These allow a better knowledge and improvement of the quality of care, and an evaluation of the satisfaction degree of the population. To evaluate the performance and acceptation of a model of programmed consultation in a teaching center of Family and Community Medicine, 2627 protocolized consultations were prospectively studied. The system was shown to be accessible, and was accepted by the population. The rate of lack of compliance with the appointment was 6.4%. The variables associated with compliance were the day of the week, the type of consultation (new patient, first visit or control visit) and the number of appointments per patient. Among the causes of lack of compliance, personal ones predominated over environmental and institutional. Further studies will be required to determine the mechanisms for the improvement of the compliance with the appointment. PMID- 2518877 TI - [Volume and demand of rheumatologic problems and their management at a primary health care center]. AB - The present study was carried out as a part of the elaboration process of the Program of Rheumatologic Diseases of the health center of Chapela. The following rates are reported: the volume of patients affected by these problems (14.5%), the generated care demand (6.9% of the overall demand), the age and sex distribution, their importance as a reason of disability (14.4% of the overall number of sick leaves), and the different specific diagnoses. To evaluate how these patients were managed by the team, a series of indicators were used, such as the number of identified patients, the quality of the documentation, the types of complementary investigations, the referral of patients to the secondary level, and the adequacy of therapies. As conclusions, a significant volume of rheumatologic consultations and work disabilities was found, with a high use rate of radiological studies and a low use rate of laboratory investigations, the use of basically NSAI drugs in the therapy, and the need for a specifically oriented clinical record to be used in the diagnosis and follow up of these conditions. PMID- 2518878 TI - [Health care for the children population in Asturias based on levels and health care areas. Primary health care]. AB - The resources available to the public health network in Asturias are presented for each health area in the level of pediatric primary care. Demographic analysis, age distribution and density of the ageing index for health areas are reported. In addition, the coverage, the number of families and children of care per physician, the rate of children per family, the care demand and the frequentation are evaluated. Imbalances are disclosed between the health centers and the outpatients clinics and between the health areas. The most important changes to be effected are pointed out. PMID- 2518879 TI - [Audit of clinical records: clinico-microbiologic study of urinary infections in a team of primary care]. AB - To carry out an audit of clinical records in our center for the evaluation of the quality of care before the introduction of protocols, several prevalent conditions were selected, and among them urinary tract infections (UTI). Another aim of the study was to evaluate the autochthonous flora responsible for UTI and its resistence to commonly used antimicrobials. A series of acceptable criteria and standards were set as quality controls, and the real index was found below the preselected one in all cases. The most commonly isolated organism was E. coli, followed by Proteus, which were resistent to trimetoprim-sulfamethoxazole in 56% and 71.4% of cases, respectively. Problems of organization and knowledge, and a high resistence rate to common antimicrobials were detected; the following were suggested as measures for improvement: introduction of a protocol, need for continuing education, reduction in the care demand, health education and improvement in the antibiotic policy. PMID- 2518880 TI - [Health care for the children population in Asturias based on levels and health care areas. Hospital health care]. AB - The general situation of pediatric care in Asturias is characterized by the imbalance between the two levels of care, with a high number of hospital beds and staff members, requiring a redistribution in number and functions, and a deficit in staff and material resources at the primary care level, with massified practices and overburdened care activities. The reform of the primary care generates an imbalance between health centers and outpatients clinics owing to the strategic situation of the former and the fact that care is given up to age 14. This problem should be carefully considered. These imbalances between the levels of care are not homogeneous, and they are more or less marked depending on the different health areas; there are wide geographical differences. Therefore, an increase in resources as well as redistribution depending on the attention levels and health areas are required. PMID- 2518881 TI - [Psittacosis: report of 7 cases]. AB - The development and systematic use of microserological techniques have allowed to identify the etiology of a higher number of respiratory diseases, that could hardly have been considered some years ago and that now are known to play a more common role in clinical practice than usually thought. In the present study, the clinical, radiological and epidemiological features of seven patients are reported; they were seen in our health center during a 16 month period and the diagnosis of Chlamydia psittaci pneumonia was made by serological studies. All patients were treated with erithromycin, with favorable clinical and radiological outcome. Psittacosis is a condition that should be considered as a cause of community acquired pneumonia even in the absence of suggestive epidemiological background. PMID- 2518882 TI - [Evaluation of diagnostic tests]. PMID- 2518883 TI - [Arterial hypertension and diabetes mellitus]. PMID- 2518884 TI - [The heart picture. Acquired cardiopathies]. PMID- 2518885 TI - [Evaluation of demand derived from the hospital ambulatory service using p-10 referred to a hospital emergency service]. PMID- 2518886 TI - [The medical history in primary health care]. PMID- 2518887 TI - [Changes in urinary sediment in occupational health tests]. PMID- 2518889 TI - [Familial Gilbert syndrome. Diagnostic accessibility in primary care]. PMID- 2518890 TI - [High transaminases without liver disease. Becker's disease]. PMID- 2518888 TI - [Treatment of acquired toxoplasmosis]. PMID- 2518892 TI - [Family medicine and HIV infection: something else to prevent?]. PMID- 2518891 TI - [Prolonged fever caused by toxoplasmosis]. PMID- 2518893 TI - [Evaluation of quality at the first health care level]. AB - A study of the quality of the health care process was carried out in three types of general practices: outpatients clinics, rural clinics and health centers. Data were collected from 6,163 protocols collected from the patients during the medical visit, and positive and negative parameters were elaborated from them. The highest quality was found in the health centers; there was a marked difference between them favoring the second one, in which the results were: 75.6% of medical acts, a mean time of 9 minutes 23 seconds for medical act; 65.5% of physical examinations; 15.6% of systematic medical examinations and 4.3% of questionably needed drug therapies. The satisfaction of the user was also evaluated by means of 421 questionnaires administered to the general population. Satisfaction was greatest in the health centers for the accessibility and service character, in the outpatients clinics for the perception of one's own health status, and there were no differences between the three types of centers for helpfulness and professional skill. PMID- 2518894 TI - [Determination of theophylline blood levels by a rapid immunoenzyme method ( "Accu-Level"): results in 83 cases]. AB - We report the results of the use of the "Accu-level" method for the rapid measurement of theophylline blood levels in a health center, so as to evaluate it for the routine practice of family doctors. The study included 83 patients receiving sustained effect theophylline preparations from May to September 1988. The accuracy of the method in the interassay evaluation (repetitivity) showed a variation coefficient of 7.92%, whereas in the intraassay evaluation (reproducibility) the coefficients were lower than 5%. The correlation study with the EMITT method showed a correlation coefficient of r = 0.9967. The present results, the easy use of the assay by the family doctor and the small technical equipment which is required support the use of this method for the monitorization of blood theophylline levels in outpatients. PMID- 2518895 TI - [Survey of smoking habits of the medical personnel at the Hospital San Pedro de Alcantara (Caceres)]. AB - The prevalence and social and health aspects of smoking habits among physicians of the Hospital San Pedro de Alcantara (Caceres) were evaluated with the questionnaire used in the course on smoking habits delivered by the INSALUD in 1988. The sample consisted of 123 physicians. 47.1% (+8.7%) declared to be smokers. This prevalence is higher than that in the general population. The rate of female nonsmokers was significantly higher than that of male nonsmokers (p less than 0.05). 51.7% of smokers had not made any attempt to give up smoking. 90% thought that the role of the doctors as a model is important, and that the health system should undertake their treatment. 97.2% declared to lack therapeutic resources. The results disclose the need for specific programs directed to exemplary groups of professionals, such as those devoted to health care, so as to achieve a reduction in the smoking habit. PMID- 2518896 TI - [Comparative study of the quality of prenatal care at health centers and hospitals]. AB - The quality of prenatal care offered in health centers (HC) and in the hospital (H) have been compared. Two samples were evaluated. One consisted of 476 pregnant women seen in HC and another of 213 who were seen in H. Five out of the 22 selected markers did not show differences in both levels (date of delivery; weight gain in g/week; measurement of uterine weight and height; and hypertension detection). Ten markers were better fulfilled in H than in HC (obstetrical formula; gynecological examination, fetal heart beats and edema examination; detection of diabetes, urinary tract infection and anemia). By contrast, there were seven markers that were better fulfilled in HC (serological tests for syphilis and hepatitis B; treatment of urinary tract infection and anemia; and compliance with follow up). The better fulfillment of the markers in H might be due to the recent inclusion of prenatal care programs in HC. The fact that in the first level of care the controls are earlier and more frequent shows that this level facilitates the access of pregnant women to services and their follow up. PMID- 2518897 TI - [Cytological diagnosis of thyroid nodules by fine needle aspiration. A study of 385 cases from primary care]. AB - A retrospective study of fine needle aspiration (FNA) of thyroid nodules was carried out in patients from the primary level of care in our city during the last four years. Overall 385 aspirations were carried out in 361 patients (93.2% females and 6.8% males). From the overall number of evaluated FNA, 88.31% had cytological criteria of benign disease; the remaining 11.7% corresponded to neoplastic lesions. Histological confirmation was obtained for all the latter. The patients with benign cytology underwent clinical follow up and eventual cytological controls. In the 45 instances of neoplastic cytology there were 2 false positive diagnoses (4.4%). The technique was highly cost effective. FNA should be include in the follow up of thyroid nodules, and it should be available by request from primary care teams. PMID- 2518898 TI - [Double-blind study of the efficacy of nicotine chewing gum for smoking cessation in the primary care setting]. AB - The results after 6 months of the treatment of three intervention groups with nicotine chewing gum to evaluate its effectiveness for the treatment of smoking addiction in primary care are reported. After random allocation, 106 individuals out of the 200 recruited in three health centers started the treatment. The active group (n = 37), treated with group sessions and nicotine chewing gum, was compared with a placebo group (n = 38) with an identical intervention. The success rate was 35.1 in the first group and 13.2 in the second (p less than 0.03), thus confirming the effectiveness of nicotine chewing gum. A third group, called consulting room group, (n = 31) was treated with nicotine chewing gum and follow up in the programmed usual consulting room. The rate of success in this group was 25.8%, without statistically significant difference with the first group. PMID- 2518900 TI - [Diabetic autonomic neuropathy]. PMID- 2518899 TI - [Descriptive study of hepatic cirrhosis. Clinical and epidemiologic evaluation]. PMID- 2518903 TI - [CFM specialist: the key to a better hospital-primary care relationship?]. PMID- 2518902 TI - [Experimental studies]. PMID- 2518901 TI - [The final method: the chest x-ray. When, how and why]. PMID- 2518905 TI - [Use of postal questionnaires for the analysis of continuing education]. PMID- 2518904 TI - [Home oxygen therapy: approach to its prescription in the province of Cordoba]. PMID- 2518906 TI - [Incorporation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease protocols in primary care]. PMID- 2518907 TI - [Right supraclavicular adenopathy as the first manifestation of esophageal carcinoma]. PMID- 2518908 TI - [Painful thyroid nodule from amiodarone intake]. PMID- 2518909 TI - [Is the role of primary care in AIDS a marginal one?]. PMID- 2518910 TI - [The role of cancer registries in the planning of primary care. A special reference to the Calatayud health area]. AB - The present study is based on the analysis of records concerning 2,123 cases of cancer registered between 1973 and 1982 in the Health Sector of Calatayud. We pretend to find out what sort of role is played by the gathered cancer information registries on the Community Health Diagnosis elaboration and, therefore, on the Primary Care Planning. An important loss of cases (23% in men and 13% in women) and a clear influence of socioeconomic factors concerning Epidemiology and even Cancer Care are remarked. Delay times of diagnosis are higher than on the other series: breast (17.4 months), skin (39.9 months), larynx (7.7 months). A preferential care about the improvement of the Sanitary Education of population, their accessibility to Sanitary System and medical praxis of the Primary Care professionals are proposed. PMID- 2518911 TI - [Arterial hypertension in the Baix Ebre region (Tarragona)]. AB - The results of a cross-sectional study for the evaluation of the prevalence of hypertension in the Baix Ebre region (Tarragona) are reported. 628 individuals from a randomly selected sample of 670 gave their consent to participate. The study was based on interview and examination at the patients home after getting an appointment by post. The prevalence of hypertension was 31.84 +/- 3.64%, and that of borderline hypertension 16.56 +/- 2.97%. Only 57% of hypertensives were previously known as such, and only 18.5% of these were being correctly treated. There was a significant association of hypertension with age (basically systolic blood pressure for women); also with alcohol intake, obesity and family history of hypertension or cardiovascular disease. There was no significant correlation with sex, residence in rural or urban areas, emigration, marital status, occupational status, social and professional level, education, or with the coexistence of hypertension in the spouse. The high prevalence of hypertension was a remarkable finding, consistent with its recognized importance as a first rate health problem. PMID- 2518912 TI - [Impact of the development of a rural health center on the demand for emergency care]. AB - The new legislation on Primary Health Care (PHC) has reorganized the implementation of services. We have evaluated the impact on the demand of emergency attention in the rural town of Almodovar del Pinar (Cuenca); this attention was previously given by the APD physician and now partially depends from the Health Center. Overall 97 cases were assisted, as compared with 229 in the preceding period (p less than 0.001). The motives for consultation remained unchanged, as well as the timing of the demand. The home visits were significantly reduced (p less than 0.05). The reduction might be explained on the basis of the moving away of the clinic location and the increased health education. The reduction in home visits might be accounted for by a higher attendance to the Health Center as this is believed to be better equipped. Hospital referral remained unchanged, 90% of cases being managed at local level. The emergency attention facilities in rural areas should be better equipped. PMID- 2518913 TI - [Urinary tract infections in primary care: predominant microbes and their antibiotic sensitivity]. AB - We have prospectively evaluated 227 episodes of community-acquired urinary tract infection (UTI) from October 1st to December, 15th, 1987. The urine samples, adequately collected, were processed in the Bacteriology Laboratory of the Albacete General Hospital. E. coli was the most commonly isolated organism (62%), followed by Proteus mirabilis (6.6%), Streptococcus faecalis (6.6%), Serratia marcescens (6.6%) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (6.2%). As regards the sensitivity of E. coli to the most commonly used antibiotics, there was a 56% resistance to ampicillin, 37% to cotrimoxazole, 40% to amoxycillin/clavulanic acid, and 46% to cephalothin. These are in contrast with the small number of resistance, at least in vitro, to urinary chemotherapeuticals and phosphomycin. We emphasize the importance of the knowledge of the organisms more commonly involved in UTI and their updated sensitivity to antimicrobials for the best management of these infections. PMID- 2518914 TI - [Structure and interrelations between different levels of care]. AB - This is a descriptive study of the degree of interrelation between the primary and secondary levels of care in the Spanish health system. The referrals to the specialized milieu are analyzed and the magnitude and quality of the information received by the primary care physician is evaluated. The referrals from the Santona outpatient clinic during 33 days are evaluated. Out of 5692 consultations, 259 patients were referred (4.55%). 16.2% of the referrals were made on an emergency basis. The most common specialties to which patients were referred were ophthalmology, traumatology, hospital, oto-rhino-laryngology, gynecology and dermatology. In 54.44% of referrals no response from the specialized milieu was obtained. In 41.6% of referrals with a response the quality of the information was poor. In 70% of the responses there was a mention of a diagnosis and in 66.1% a therapy was prescribed. The severe deficiencies in the interrelation between the different levels of care are shown; we propose as solutions the creation of internal pathways of communication and the unification of criteria between specialists and primary care physicians. PMID- 2518916 TI - [The concept of causality in epidemiology]. PMID- 2518915 TI - [A prospective study of 57 cases of Mediterranean boutonneuse fever]. AB - Mediterranean boutonneuse fever (MBF) is an uncommon acute infective disease characterized by the development of an inoculation lesion followed by fever and maculo-papular erythematous rash. In the present study we have evaluated the epidemiological, clinical and laboratory abnormalities of 57 cases of MBF diagnosed in our Hospital during a 2-year period. Although incidence does not appear to increase, our series shows that MBF is a common disease in our area. On the whole, MBF is a benign condition; however, torpid forms are increasingly reported. Therefore, a rational therapeutic approach questioning the validity of single therapeutic doses is required, particularly for adults. PMID- 2518917 TI - [Diabetic somatic neuropathy]. PMID- 2518918 TI - [Pleural diseases]. PMID- 2518919 TI - [Treatment and quality of life of the terminal patient]. PMID- 2518920 TI - [Normal hepatic enzymes in liver cirrhosis]. PMID- 2518921 TI - [Nocturnal snoring and sleep apnea syndrome]. PMID- 2518923 TI - [Treatment of captopril-induced cough]. PMID- 2518922 TI - [Stevens-Johnson syndrome with exclusive mucosal involvement]. PMID- 2518924 TI - [Incidence and risk factors of ischemic heart disease in the Soria province]. PMID- 2518925 TI - [Study of hospital emergencies in the Soria province. The need to improve primary care]. PMID- 2518926 TI - [Preventive and health promoting activities in primary care]. PMID- 2518928 TI - [Results of health examination by age and sex groups]. AB - The present study describes the results achieved 6 months after the establishment of a health examination, with different features depending on age and sex groups, which was progressively applied to the population of the C.A.P. "Virgen de la Fuensanta" (Valencia). The preventive activities included: vaccination (rubella, tetanus and influenza), tuberculin skin testing, determination of body weight and mass (BMI), measurement of blood pressure and heart rate, cervical cytology, breast examination and search for occult blood in feces. Among the 388 evaluated individuals (69.4% females and 30.6% males), 10 cases of hypertension, 2 of diabetes, 65 of obesity, 20 of hypercholesterolemia, 23 women with benign breast abnormalities and 8 instances of occult blood in feces were detected. In the age group of 15-26 years, 7 positive tuberculin reactions were detected. In 175 cytological studies no case of malignant disease was discovered. The degree of acceptance of the program by the users was satisfactory, as assessed by the compliance with both the appointments (85%) and the individual interventions (88 100%). PMID- 2518927 TI - [Hospital overuse: evaluation and follow-up of endocrine diseases in primary health care]. AB - On the base of a preestablished protocol, 350 patients from a hospital endocrinological clinic were evaluated to assess the possible role of primary care teams to reduce its possible massification. A comparative evaluation of the causes for consultation was carried out in those patients requiring specialized attention and those which do not need the complexities of hospital organization for their appropriate care and which should be best directed to primary care. It was concluded that there is an overload of hospital clinics, as 34.5% of patients should have been diagnosed and treated in the primary level of care. On the basis of these results, the endocrine diseases requiring primary care would basically be obesity and type II diabetes mellitus, which, in addition, are present in more than 50% of the patients on care. PMID- 2518930 TI - [Descriptive study of patients with leprosy in the province of Cordoba]. AB - A descriptive study of virtually all patients with leprosy in the Cordoba province was carried out. The socioeconomic and hygienic features of the patients' homes, some clinical variables, the therapeutic habits and the features of the foci were evaluated. The major findings were as follows: More than 50% of patients had poor socioeconomic background. 32% were a clinically active stage of the disease, 42% had some degree of disability and one half of the patients did not usually comply with the treatment. The importance of the socioeconomic and hygienic background as a possible risk factor for the development and the worsening of the disease are apparent. What we have defined as a contagion favoring environment is associated with poor hygienic status of the patient's home (p = 0.001). The lack of compliance with treatment is associated with poorer social and hygienic status (p less than 0.001). PMID- 2518929 TI - [Undergraduate medical education in Cantabria and its relevance to the new health system]. AB - Considering that medical schools should serve the community to which they provide professionals and that, therefore, they should have a knowledge of the community health needs, we evaluated the adequacy of the teaching program of the Medical School of Cantabria and the attitudes and expectations of the medical students. The results showed a majority of students younger than age 20 (90.2%), with a female predominance (68.5%), from upper and middle classes and with professional expectations of becoming a hospital specialist (86.9%) and working in urban media (95.4%). In the analysis of the teaching program a predominance of clinical over social topics was discovered, there was a lack of contact with primary care, the teaching was given as professorial lectures and the education of students was oriented towards hospital specialties. It was concluded that a change in the educational systems is needed for adequacy with the new health care system. PMID- 2518931 TI - [Opinion of users about an ambulatory care center in a rural area]. AB - The opinion of the users of a nurse clinic from a rural Health Center was evaluated to assess their acceptance or rejection. To this end, a survey with an interview at home was carried out of 80 of the 180 patients included in one or more of the protocols of hypertension, diabetes mellitus or obesity from that clinic. A high percentage of these patients (74%) stated that they were satisfied with the development of this service and that they were ready to continue their follow up with that system. The most commonly quoted motives were the existence of previous appointment (20.5%) and the subjective feeling of improved quality of life (27.4%). As regards their opinions about the motives for the creation of a nurse clinic, the responses were divided into two similar groups: one thought that they attempted to improve the control of chronic patients (39.7%) while the other supposed that it was only a measure to reduce the massification of medical clinics (34.3%). PMID- 2518932 TI - [Evaluation of results of school health examination in the Murcia region. 1986/87]. AB - In the present study, we have carried out an evaluation of school examinations in 47,943 children in the past course. We have compared our results with those from similar previous studies in other parts of Spain. Our findings were comparable in visual acuity and scoliosis, and not so much about cryptorchidism and phimosis. We think that examinations are necessary, but it is needed to increase the quality and the effectiveness, to get closer to the knowledge of usefulness and to the correct evaluation of school health programs. PMID- 2518933 TI - [Chondrocalcinosis: a diagnostic-therapeutic approach. Presentation of 10 clinical cases]. AB - The disease caused by the deposition of dehydrated calcium pyrophosphate crystals (chondrocalcinosis) is a metabolic joint disease poorly known outside rheumatologic media. It is estimated that about 5% of the adult population has deposits in the knees and that prevalence increases with age. The incidence of symptomatic disease is about the same as that of gout. The clinical presentation is variable, from pseudogouty forms, pseudorheumatoid arthritis or secondary degenerative joint disease, to 20% of asymptomatic cases. In the systematic evaluation family history should be sought, and metabolic diseases such as gout, diabetes, hemochromatosis, hyperparathyroidism and hypothyroidism should be ruled out. The condition is treated with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs, and although the outcome is generally favorable, severe destructive joint disease may develop. In the present article we review this condition on the basis of the presentation forms of 10 of our patients. PMID- 2518934 TI - [Confidence intervals]. PMID- 2518935 TI - [Intestinal infections]. PMID- 2518937 TI - [Evaluation of biological parameters in pediatrics]. PMID- 2518936 TI - [Thoracic nodular lesions]. PMID- 2518939 TI - [Post-traumatic diabetes insipidus. Diagnosis of a case in primary care]. PMID- 2518938 TI - [Treatment of acute uncomplicated urinary infection in women]. PMID- 2518940 TI - [Psittacosis: an uncommon diagnosis in primary care]. PMID- 2518942 TI - [Digoxin-induced gynecomastia]. PMID- 2518941 TI - [Persistent nocturnal cough: a pulmonary manifestation of gastroesophageal reflux associated with hiatal hernia]. PMID- 2518943 TI - [Benign rheumatoid nodules]. PMID- 2518944 TI - [Cimetidine-induced bradycardia]. PMID- 2518945 TI - [Complementary studies in primary care: the need of a conceptual framework]. PMID- 2518946 TI - [Evaluation of arterial hypertension program in a primary care center]. AB - The rate of detection, confirmation, control and follow-up of hypertension in the Canteres Primary Care Center was evaluated two years after the beginning of the hypertension program from a sample of 1219 clinical records. It was found that 572 individuals (46.9%) had at least one blood pressure reading. Of these, 68.2% had values within the normal range, whereas 9.6% of females and 2.8% of males were known hypertensives. High BP levels were found in 69 (19.9%) females and in 34 (15%) males. Of these 103 individuals, the three BP readings were only completed in 34 (49.3%) females and 12 (35.3%) males, and only 26 and 3, respectively, were considered as new hypertensives. In 87% of hypertensives the follow-up was correct, and 59% had BP within normal limits. It is concluded that priority should be given to more deprived and higher risk groups (males of working age), a new evaluation being proposed at 5 years with the following standards; greater than 80% with BP readings (greater than 95% in individuals older than 30 years), with correct confirmation of the diagnosis in greater than 95% and greater than 80% of control and follow-up. PMID- 2518947 TI - [Evaluation of alcohol consumption recording in the primary care clinical history]. AB - We carried out an internal medical audit to evaluate the recording of alcohol use in the primary care clinical records. 200 records were analyzed out of overall 2250. Of these, 100 belonged to the open (older) model, and 100 to the closed (or current) one. We found that in 56% of open model records there was no mention about alcohol use, against 31% in closed model records. In addition, this latter model permits a quantitative recording of alcohol intake. In both models there was a greater amount of information in males. We conclude that the physician's interest in recording data related to alcohol intake is small. We think that primary care staff should be sensitized to the importance of evaluating and recording alcohol intake. PMID- 2518948 TI - [Epidemiological aspects of gastric adenocarcinoma in the Southern Seville area]. AB - We performed a basic epidemiological study of gastric adenocarcinoma in the Southern Seville area, with Valme Hospital as the reference center. All cases with an endoscopic diagnosis of gastric adenocarcinoma carried out in our center from May 1982 through December 1987 were included in the study. Basically, the following variables were evaluated: the sex and age distribution of the neoplasia, and its mean and yearly incidence during the study period, both as a whole and in the different natural regions of the Southern Seville area. The mean age of the patients with gastric adenocarcinoma was 67 +/- 1.5; 62.8% were males and 37.2% females, with a male/female ratio of 1.68/1. The mea incidence during the study period was 5.93 cases for 100,000/year. The yearly incidence showed a mild and progressive increase until 1986 with a decrease in 1987. PMID- 2518950 TI - [Outbreak of hepatitis A in day nursery: diagnosis and follow-up in a pediatric clinic]. AB - We describe one of four epidemic known outbreaks of type "A" hepatitis during the year 1987 in Jaen, and whose focal point was a day nursery placed in our sanitary area. We identify 75 cases; we followed 48 from a pediatric surgery (PS), 33 of them were from a day nursery (attack rate, 31.73%). To the 48 children from PS, antibodies IgM and IgG against type "A" hepatitis virus were detected. No case was treated with drugs and in every case it was suggested that hygienic rules be observed and a knowledge of the disease be given to the parents. It had a good evolution in all cases, and only two of them were hospitalized, one of the parents' request and the other with thrombopenia. The remaining cases till 75, were diagnosed in other surgeries (OS) and in Hospitals (H). PMID- 2518949 TI - [A proposal for the development of the program of family and community medicine]. AB - We present a methodological innovation for the Teaching Unit of Family and Community Medicine in Valencia, consisting in a stage of the first year residents in the Health Centers during the first week after their incorporation to the teaching program. At the same time, we attempt to evaluate the level of clinical knowledge of these residents about common problems in primary care; to assess their knowledge about organization, information systems, health programs, etc.; to evaluate their degree of preference for the specialty and to analyze how such an experience may be helpful for the education of the family physicians. The mean number of correct answers to a test-type examination about common clinical problems in that level of care was 31.6%. The mean level of knowledge about primary care was self-rated as poor. Only 2 out of 22 residents had freely chosen this specialty, and only as a third choice. At the end of the stage, 74.7% of the residents evaluated it as useful or highly useful. We propose some recommendations which might improve the structure and implementation of the teaching. PMID- 2518951 TI - [A study of the prevalence of alcohol consumption in the Baix Ebre region (Tarragona)]. AB - A cross-sectional study was carried out in the Baix Ebre region about the prevalence of alcohol use, within a wider study of hypertension and other risk factors. The following characteristics were considered for the elaboration of the present study: non drinker, moderate drinker and heavy drinker, as well as the amount of alcohol intake related with demographic, socioeconomical and cultural variables such as: age, sex, urban or rural medium, marital status, place of origin, working status, social and professional level, and educational status. 64.2% of the whole population greater than or equal to 20 years were usual alcohol users, and so were 79.4% of males and 48.2% of females. According to the definition of heavy or excessive drinker, such were 21.8% of males and 2.6% of females. Males drank a higher alcohol amount, with a mean and standard deviation of 47.1 +/- 35.5. In females, these figures were 19.4 +/- 12.4 g per day. The rate of alcohol drinkers was higher in young individuals, in those with active working status, in those with medium social and professional level, and in those with medium and high educational status. PMID- 2518952 TI - [Immune response to influenza vaccination]. AB - The present study investigated the level of immunity of the population against three strains of the influenza virus (A Chile/1/83 -A Philippines/2/82 and B URSS/100/83) before and three months after vaccination, and the immune response to whole virus vaccine as compared with fragmented virus vaccine. A high percentage of the population had titers greater than or equal to 1/10 before vaccination for the Chile (54%) and Philippines (65.7%) strains, while titers against the URSS strain were lower (25.4%). There was a definitive increase in antibody titer in the vaccinated population, although it was lower than expected. The overall response to both vaccines, with protecting titers greater than or equal to 1/40 after vaccination was 65.2% for the Chile strain, 74.6% for the Philippines strain, and 15% for the URSS strain. No differences in the overall immune response were found between the groups vaccinated with whole and fragmented virus. PMID- 2518953 TI - [Sleep apnea syndrome: apropos of 3 cases]. AB - Three cases of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome are reported. The diagnosis was suspected by the family physician and was later documented by the pertinent polygraphic sleep recordings. The patients were middle aged obese males who consulted for minor problems and reported daytime hypersomnolence, loud snoring and startled sleep. The important role of the primary care physician in the suspicion of this syndrome is stressed, as well as the relevance of early diagnosis which permits adequate therapy. PMID- 2518954 TI - [Public health and community medicine area. Descriptive studies]. PMID- 2518956 TI - [Intermittent macroscopic hematuria as a sole manifestation of schistosomiasis]. PMID- 2518955 TI - [Genital pathology: sexually transmitted diseases]. PMID- 2518957 TI - [Systolic arterial hypertension in the aged]. PMID- 2518958 TI - [Early diagnosis of cervical cancer]. PMID- 2518960 TI - [Monitoring of indicators and rational bases of their interpretation]. PMID- 2518959 TI - [Hypertensive crisis and false hypertensive emergency]. PMID- 2518961 TI - [Chronic diarrhea "naturally" recognizable in the anamnesis]. PMID- 2518962 TI - [Revisions and progress in the Atencion Primaria review. A statistical analysis]. PMID- 2518963 TI - [Integrated programs in primary health care: a critical analysis]. PMID- 2518964 TI - [Analysis of use and coverage of a population of a primary health care district in Finland. An epidemiological approach]. AB - The data were collected by recording all office visits to the health center doctor during one year. The health center district population amounted 14,500 persons. The total number of persons visiting was 8701 of which a systematic sample of 2540 persons was drawn. Information on the use of services was collected from the patient files using precoded and pretested forms planned for this purpose. This information was supplemented by population data and data of private medical care reimbursements from the sickness insurance registers. The results are mainly presented by pictures relating the use of various services to 1000 persons in the population at risk. The emphasis is on the methodology not in the actual numbers. The results indicate, however, that in 1977 55% of the population visited the health center doctor at least once during the year. More than 90% of those persons who visited were treated exclusively by the health center general practitioners. 13.7% of the population of the district made 50% of the office visits. 4.7% of persons who visited the health center doctor were immediately referred to the central general hospital outpatient department as emergency cases and 0.4% to mental hospital. 5.5% were admitted to the health center hospital ward. Sixteen percent of the population used private medical services either exclusively or simultaneously during the year. PMID- 2518965 TI - [Dynamic demography from 1900 to 1985 in Aldeavieja (Avila)]. AB - The dynamic demography of the village of Aldeavieja (Avila) from 1900 to 1985 was evaluated with several indicators. A reduction in mortality rate was found, stabilizing around 10% since 1950, with a greater reduction in mortality rates in children. From 1900 to 1985 the Swarop index rose from 34.55% to 92.86%, and life expectancy from 30.13 to 77.5 years. The most common causes of death were infectious diseases during the first decades of the period, being now replaced by tumors and chronic diseases. There was a great demographic loss and the population became older (17.59% are now older than 65 years). It was concluded that a knowledge of dynamic demography is needed for a rational planning and an adequate resource allocation based on needs. PMID- 2518966 TI - [Description of the structure of and demand for a social security service for displaced persons]. AB - We have evaluated the structure and demand of care in a Social Security center for the attention to patients out of their dwelling place during de months of July and August, 1987. We had a single office, with two doctors and one nurse and no auxiliary staff. Data were recovered from the daily morbidity sheet. There were overall 4354 visits with a daily mean of 42 patients/doctor. 63.8% attended only to repeat prescriptions, and only 1.07% justified their demands with a written report. The leading cause for medical consultation were respiratory diseases followed by dermatological diseases. Remarkably, 22.6% of consultations were not made by the patient in person. The most common type of interconsultation was the referral to the emergency room of the reference hospital. We have compared these data with other morbidity studies, and we conclude that a better attention of the administration to the clinics for patients out of their dwelling place is required. Another urgent need is the implementation of the prolonged therapy card. PMID- 2518967 TI - [Request for a hemogram as a marker of the quality of health care]. AB - The evaluation of markers of the health care activity, such as the reason for requesting a peripheral blood count in everyday practice and its inclusion in the clinical record, constitutes an estimate of the quality of care. To this end, we have reviewed the requests of 160 peripheral blood counts in our center during one month. It was found that the request itself and/or its cause had not been mentioned in the clinical record in 32.5% of instances. In the cases where the indication could be ascertained, it was not justified in 58.4%. Overall 72.5% of peripheral blood counts were normal. It was concluded that peripheral blood count is an over-utilized test, while its request is insufficiently recorded. This makes diagnostic decisions and the evaluation of the quality of care difficult. PMID- 2518968 TI - [Impact of the nurse consultation program on primary care]. AB - In the present study, the impact of the institution of a nurse consultation program on the overall demand for care was evaluated. To this end, two one-year periods (before and after the institution of the program in a rural medium) were evaluated. The achieved results include an overall reduction in the number of patients which attended daily the medical consulting room (46.9 on the first year and 36 on the second), with a highly significant increase on the mean duration of the visit (3 min 14 sec and 4 min 11 sec, respectively). The derived demand (referral to specialists and request of complementary investigations) only had a increase in the laboratory requests (1.85 more for every 100 visits). The drug expenditure did not show overall changes: however, if the increase in the mean cost of prescriptions for that year (16.22% for active individuals and 15.57% for pensioners) is taken into consideration, then there was a significant reduction in both overall expenditure and in the mean expenditure per prescription. It was concluded, therefore, that the use of the nurse consultation service in a primary care center results in an improved quality of care, with a reduction in the generated drug expenditure. PMID- 2518969 TI - [Utilization of a hospital emergency service. Influence of the need to transfer to another location and previous medical attention]. AB - 171 cases consecutively seen in a hospital emergency service were prospectively evaluated. Several data were recorded to assess the type of care given and the need for attention in an institution with the technical resources of a hospital. These data were evaluated considering whether the user had moved from another town to receive attention and whether he had been referred by a physician or not. There were definite differences in the behavior of the user from the town where the hospital is located and the remaining users. These differences were not attributable to a different performance or evaluation from the primary care services of the several towns involved. It was concluded that, at the present time, the use of the emergency service of our hospital is significantly influenced by the decision of the user to consult the service. Factors other than the severity of the disease influence this decision. PMID- 2518970 TI - [Influenza vaccination: evaluation of an integrated program in a basic urban health area]. AB - We have evaluated the fulfillment of the aims of an integrated influenza vaccination program for a basic urban health area. We have focused the analysis on the vaccine coverage for age and sex groups, groups of risk modifiers and risk gradient. We have evaluated the most adequate method of call. Overall coverage was 64.6%. This rate was higher in risk groups such as diabetes, heart disease and chronic airflow limitation. Rates of 74.9%, 81.8% and 94.11% were achieved in groups with two, three and four risk modifiers. The direct call was considered the most effective method of catchment. The major conclusion was that the attempted coverage rates were not achieved. We suggest that the "non-vaccinated" individual profile should be investigated and the motivation level of the health professionals should be improved to increase the yield of the influenza vaccination programs. PMID- 2518972 TI - [Community-acquired pneumonia]. PMID- 2518973 TI - [Chronic obstructive lung disease]. PMID- 2518971 TI - [Clinical and epidemiological features of hepatic cirrhosis. Analysis of 200 patients]. AB - We have evaluated the clinical and epidemiological features of hepatic cirrhosis in a retrospective study of 200 patients admitted to our Area Hospital from 1984 to 1987. 77% of patients were 40-69 years old and 74% were males, with a M/F ratio of 2.84. 56% were caused by high alcohol intake, 25% were cryptogenic and 13% post-hepatitis. 29.2% were diagnosed in a compensated stage of the disease. 52.2% presented with ascites, and 30.5% with upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage. We found superimposed hepatocellular carcinoma in 4.5% of patients, all of them males, with a mean age of 63.5 years. 18% died during their hospital admission, 50% from hepatic coma, 19.4% from hypovolemic shock and 16.6% from hepatorenal syndrome. Survival from the time of diagnosis in the patients who died was shorter than one year in 41.5%. PMID- 2518974 TI - [Rate standardization]. PMID- 2518975 TI - [Importance of pulse evaluation during blood pressure recording]. PMID- 2518976 TI - [Knowledge of the assigned population in primary health care]. PMID- 2518977 TI - [Age group classifications in descriptive studies of the demand for care]. PMID- 2518978 TI - [Analysis of 611 patients seen for abdominal pain in an emergency service]. PMID- 2518979 TI - [Study of the demand in a hospital emergency service depending on the referral center]. PMID- 2518980 TI - [Expenses generated by 4 patients with tetanus in the Tarragona province and economic possibilities in regard to prevention]. PMID- 2518981 TI - [Evaluation of the recording of reasons for consultation and its codification according to the WONCA classification]. PMID- 2518982 TI - [Amoxicillin versus bacampicillin in infectious exacerbations of chronic bronchitis]. PMID- 2518984 TI - [Monitoring pregnancy in primary health care]. PMID- 2518983 TI - [Use of the MALT questionnaire for the detection of alcoholism]. PMID- 2518985 TI - [Adequacy of the term "influenza" in disease reporting]. AB - To evaluate the real incidence rate of influenza in our community, we have assessed all those illnesses considered to be influenza-like in a population of 2,700 persons in Cordoba during a 7 month period (December 1986-June 1987). A complete clinical, virological and serological evaluation was carried out in 31 of the first 51 cases. Of these, 15 had positive serological tests for influenza A or B viruses and 4 for the other viruses. In none of the cases the isolation of influenza virus was achieved after cell culture of the pharyngeal exudate. The observed incidence rate in our study, on the basis of predefined clinical criteria, was 1.8%. This was significantly lower (p less than 0.001) than the rate of reported influenza cases in the province (11.6%). It was concluded that the expression "influenza-like syndrome" should be substituted for "influenza" in the official reportings of this disease, which, on the other hand, should always be carried out following strict clinical criteria. PMID- 2518986 TI - [Results of a continuing education program using teaching consultations]. AB - The results of a continued education program for PCS in the clinical area by means of a method using teaching interconsultations are reported. The program was carried out in the Toledo province in the first six months of 1988. Its initial aims were the development of the program and the approaching between the different levels of health care. The program was carried out with the active participation of the members from PCS, who specified the areas of interest to be developed. The overall expense were 946,540 pesetas, with a mean expense per session and interconsultation of 6,352.6 pesetas. The degree of fulfillment of the program was 79.6% (149 of the programmed 187 interconsultations), with a mean of 3.3 interconsultations/health center/months (planned mean 4.1). In addition, the degree of compliance of each PCS and cooperating specialists was evaluated, with an analysis of the causes of noncompliance. It was concluded that continued education programs for PCS are necessary and that the method of teaching interconsultations is valid with limitations in health areas of small size. PMID- 2518987 TI - [Superficial bladder carcinoma: clinical and epidemiological analysis of 250 patients]. AB - The neoplasms of bladder are an important part of genitourinary tumors. Superficial forms represent 70-80% of their overall number. We have carried out a retrospective clinical and epidemiological study of 250 patients seen in our service during a 12-year period. We found that the disease was more common in males aged 60-70 years, usually being multiple tumors and mostly in the lateral walls of the bladder. Most tumors were in grades 1 and 2 of UICC and in stage O of Jewett's classifications, with a clear association between the degree of cell differentiation and the stage of infiltration. There was no correlation of age and sex with the number of tumors, their localization, cellular degree and tumor stage. There was a correlation between the number of tumors and their localization; thus, single tumors had a preference for lateral walls, while multiple tumors predominated in the bladder fundus. PMID- 2518988 TI - [A hepatitis A outbreak in a Granada district]. AB - The aim of the present study was to define and characterize the occurrence of a hepatitis outbreak. A hepatitis outbreak developed from November 1987 and June 1988 in a peripheral district of the city of Granada. Sixty cases were diagnosed (59 confirmed and 1 probable). An increase in the incidence was observed during October, November and December. There were no sex differences in the specific attack rates and the mean age of cases was 7.14 years; the specific rates in the different age groups were higher in the 0-5 years and 6-10 years groups. The most common symptoms and signs were choluria, abdominal pain and jaundice. Anti-HVA IgM was positive in 83.3% of cases. Only 5 children required hospital admission, and the outcome of 83.3% of cases was known and favorable. The strategies adopted against the outbreak were to recommend hygienic measures in the households and school where cases had developed and to give nonspecific human immunoglobulins before or after exposure in the closed contacts of cases. We do not feel that these strategies have had a sizeable effect on the course of the outbreak. PMID- 2518989 TI - [Health education in obesity: evaluation of the efficacy of a program]. AB - A program for weight reduction in obese individuals detected in a general practice was evaluated and compared with alternative usual types of management. From March to December 1987 the index of body mass (IBM) was systematically measured in 790 individuals older than 15 and younger than 65 years who attended a general practice. 42% of them had IBM higher than 25 and were considered as obese, being then randomly assigned to an experimental or a control groups. In the first group, educational counselling to lose weight based on health information was offered, hypocaloric diet was given, and motivational support during follow up was provided, mainly by nurses. The results in 155 individuals (63 cases and 92 controls) free from confusing factors and followed up for a mean period of 239 days were evaluated. The cases demonstrated a higher degree of information and lost more weight. The effectiveness of the experimental program was 22%, while that of routine management was 8%. The difference in success rates was 15.7% (95% C.I.: 28.5%, 2.9%), favoring the experimental group. PMID- 2518990 TI - [Control of overweight children in primary care]. AB - The results obtained in the program "Control of overweight in children" in the programmed nurse clinic were evaluated in 25 children distributed for age and degree of overweight. The activities carried out were: control of the number of calories based on carbohydrate and fat reduction, health education using the audiovisual techniques of the program EDALNU of the Ministry of Health, and theoretical program based on it. The group with a greater overweight (higher than 20%) followed, in addition, a 1,500 calories diet. It was concluded that a balanced diet and physical exercise proved to be highly effective for the reduction of overweight in children without additional drug intervention. Obesity in children is a health problem that can be addressed in a primary care context; the role of the nursing staff is crucial through health education activities. PMID- 2518991 TI - [Epidemiologic study of complicated urinary calculi: an analysis of 164 cases]. AB - We report a clinical and epidemiological study of 164 cases of complex urinary calculi which were seen in our hospital between 1984 and 1988. The highest incidence was found in patients aged between 40 and 50 years, with a female:male ratio of 1.27/1. In 37% of patients there were first degree relatives with calculi. The most common type were calculi with a calcium component, with a remarkably high proportion of struvite calculi and a low one of uric acid. Housewives had a high rate of struvite calculi associated with infections during pregnancy. Qualified professions have been associated with calcium oxalate and phosphate calculi. 13% has congenital renoureteral malformations, 4% had hyperuricemia and 1.2% had hyperparathyroidism. Pain was the most consistent symptom, followed by fever and urinary tract infection. 50% of patients had previously passed stones. 90% of calculi were visible in the plain abdomen X-ray film. 65% of patients required aggressive therapy. PMID- 2518993 TI - [Upper respiratory tract infection]. PMID- 2518992 TI - [Importance of skin cancer (non-melanoma): a study of 89 cases]. AB - In the present study, 147 skin lesions suggestive of epithelioma are reported, corresponding to 129 patients evaluated in a Dermatologic clinic from the Social Security in Cordoba. In 30 lesions biopsy could not be performed owing to patient's refusal. Out of the remaining 117, 89 corresponded to epitheliomas (68 basal-cell epitheliomas and 21 squamous-cell epitheliomas). The incidence was 55.4/100 000/year, with a proportion of basal-cell epitheliomas of 3:1. The higher rate was found in males older than 50 years, peasants and with previous exposure to sun. The most common localization was the nose and malar region for basal-cell epitheliomas and the lower lip for squamous-cell epitheliomas. It is concluded that early diagnosis of skin and mucosal epitheliomas is important owing to their frequent morbidity. In addition, the need for a higher suspicion index both in the population and the general practitioners is emphasized. PMID- 2518994 TI - [Interstitial pattern. Diffuse infiltrative lesions]. PMID- 2518995 TI - [Sampling methods]. PMID- 2518996 TI - [A study of the demand for emergency medical care in rural medicine]. PMID- 2518997 TI - [Reagent strips in urinary tract infections]. PMID- 2518998 TI - [Diabetologic education in primary care]. PMID- 2518999 TI - [Macroangiopathy in 297 type 2 diabetic patients: prevalence and risk factors]. AB - A cross-sectional study was carried out in Cornella with type II diabetic patients to assess their prevalence of microangiopathy and their major risk factors. The study included 297 patients (102 males and 197 females) with a mean age of 61 years. In 45.5% of cases some feature of microangiopathy was found: 35% had peripheral vascular disease; 24.5% had coronary artery disease, and 7.1% cerebrovascular disease. The variables associated with this complication were investigated with the logistic regression technique. A significant association was found between microangiopathy as a whole and the duration of diabetes mellitus, age and smoking. Peripheral vascular disease was associated with age, clinical duration and male sex; coronary artery disease was associated with male sex and the mean level of blood triglycerides, and cerebrovascular disease was associated with age. PMID- 2519000 TI - [Evaluation of the quality of care of diabetic population at a health center]. AB - An evaluation study of the quality of care was carried out in diabetic patients aged 20 years or more diagnosed since the primary health care center had been opened. 20 criteria accepted by consensus were evaluated in all be clinical records of the diabetic population. A remarkable result was the high rate of incorrectly diagnosed patients (36.8%), although there were no significant differences in the rate of criteria recording between these and the true diabetics. The most commonly recorded criteria were the classification of the type of diabetes and the measurement of blood sugar (100%), while the least common were the measurement of A1C hemoglobin (2.6%) and neurologic examination (9%). Overall 13.3% of records had 17 or more recorded criteria, and 53.4% had between 13 and 16 criteria. The importance to include the methods for the evaluation and control of the quality of care in the major aims of the primary care teams is stressed. PMID- 2519001 TI - [Use of the resources in the diagnosis and control of diabetes mellitus in a rural area]. AB - The clinical records of 135 diabetics from the Amposta rural area were reviewed and distributed in two groups: Group A consisted of four rural nuclei; each of them had a population of less than 1000 and a team of basic health care, and their overall population was 2967 with 88 recognized diabetics. Group B consisted of a rural nucleus with a population of 3337, served by three basic health care teams and administrative support; the number of diabetics was 47. The prevalences of type I (2.62% and 1.1%) and type II diabetes (35.91% and 17.18% were compared in the groups A and B, respectively. Also were compared the use of the available resources for the evaluation of the degree of metabolic compensation and for the detection of complications; and the use of the clinical record during the first year of operation of the basic health area. The results showed a significant difference in the prevalence of diabetes (p less than 0.001), in the use of resources both for the evaluation of metabolic compensation (p less than 0.001) and for the detection of complications (p less than 0.001), and in the quality of the clinical record (p less than 0.001). PMID- 2519002 TI - [Prevalence of peripheral somatic neuropathy in type 2 diabetes mellitus]. AB - A cross-sectional study of 297 type 2 diabetic patients was carried out to evaluate their prevalence of peripheral somatic neuropathy. Their mean age was 61 years, with a predominance of females (65.7%) over males (34.3%). The clinical duration of diabetes was longer than 10 year in 45% of the evaluated patients, and metabolic control was poor in almost one half of them (49.5%). The most common symptom were cramps, while abnormal vibratory sense was the predominant physical finding. Neuropathy was significantly associated with mean age (t = 4.32, p less than 0.0001), the years of duration of diabetes (chi(2) = 11.16, p = 0.01) and the metabolic control degree (chi(2) = 24.2, p less than 0.001) in the bivariate analysis, while in multivariate analysis it was only associated with age (e beta = 1,637, p less than 0.0001) and the metabolic control degree (e beta = 4.02, p less than 0.0001). PMID- 2519003 TI - [The diabetic foot]. PMID- 2519004 TI - [Infections in diabetic patients]. PMID- 2519005 TI - [A comparative economic study of a health center and its reference hospital: apropos of a case of diabetes mellitus]. PMID- 2519006 TI - [Experience in health education of diabetic patients in primary care]. PMID- 2519007 TI - [Cholesterol: what levels should be considered?]. PMID- 2519008 TI - [Materials for health education of the population]. PMID- 2519010 TI - [Role of primary care professionals in the care of the diabetic patient]. PMID- 2519009 TI - [Diagnosis and treatment of diabetes mellitus in primary care]. PMID- 2519011 TI - The distinct subgroup of patients with rheumatoid arthritis shown by Ig G3 reactive rheumatoid factor. AB - The reactivity of rheumatoid factor (RF) with immunoglobulins of the IgG3 subclass was examined in 49 patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) using two types of IgG3 myeloma (routine and IgG3m-15 allotype). Among 49 patients, serum from eight cases showed positive reactivity with both types of IgG3 myeloma by radio-immunoassay (RIA). The isotype of IgG3-reactive RF was not specific; it belonged to the IgM class as well as the IgG subclasses IgG1, IgG2 and IgG4. The patients with IgG3-reactive RF belonged to the clinically-severe classification of RA, having a high erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), high titre in the RA hemagglutination (RAHA) test, and above all they had low levels of complement. Generally, it is concluded that patients with IgG3-reactive RF have serious arthritis and that IgG3-reactive RF might play an important role in the inflammatory process. Furthermore, it was also shown that the RF-reactive site was not associated with the protein-A binding site of IgG3, since RF reacting with IgG3m-15 reacted similarly with routine IgG3, regardless of the difference of the protein-A binding activity. This was confirmed by adding protein-A to the reaction of RF and IgG3m-15 which binds with protein-A. This suggests that the actual reactive site of RF is different to the site that binds protein-A. PMID- 2519012 TI - Failure to detect complement-mediated antibody-dependent cytotoxicity against human orbital tissue cells in the serum of patients with thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy. AB - Antibodies which are cytotoxic to human eye muscle cells and orbital fibroblasts in antibody dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) are routinely detected in the serum of patients with thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO). In the present study sera from patients with TAO, most of which were shown to be positive in ADCC against eye muscle cell targets, were tested for complement mediated antibody-dependent cytotoxicity (CMAC) against human and pig eye muscle cells, human (abdominal) skeletal muscle cells and human orbital fibroblasts, in 51Cr release assays. Several different assay protocols and complement sources were used and patient and age, sex matched normal sera compared. In preliminary studies tests were always negative when eye muscle cells, other skeletal muscle cells, or orbital fibroblasts were used as targets, regardless of the complement source, or concentration, or assay conditions used. When larger numbers of patients and normals were tested in a single assay mean (+/- SE) % specific lysis for patients with TAO was not significantly different from that for normals for either eye muscle cells or other skeletal muscle cells and taking the upper limit of normal as mean + 2 SD for the normals, tests were positive in no patient with either target. On the other hand ADCC tests were positive in 57% of the same sera tested with the same eye muscle cell targets. When human thyroid cells were used as targets, tests were positive in 10 of the 14 patients tested and monoclonal antibodies, in enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, reactive with eye muscle antigens gave positive lysis of eye muscle cells.2+ t PMID- 2519014 TI - Interleukin 2 receptor targeted immunotherapy in the prevention of autoimmune beta-cell destruction as observed in diabetic BB/OK rats grafted with BB/OK rat islets. PMID- 2519013 TI - Kappa/lambda ratios in IgG, IgA and IgM of cerebrospinal fluid and of sera in patients with multiple sclerosis. AB - Kappa/lambda (kappa/lambda) ratios of each immunoglobulin, i.e. IgG, IgA and IgM in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and in sera of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) were analysed by sandwich enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. In CSF kappa/lambda ratios of IgG of MS patients were significantly (p less than 0.05) higher than those of normal controls, whereas the values of IgA and IgM did not differ significantly from those of normal controls. In sera kappa/lambda ratios of IgG, IgA and IgM did not differ significantly from those of normal controls. Our results suggest that in MS patients abnormal kappa/lambda ratios are also restricted to IgG components in CSF, as oligoclonal IgG bands are. PMID- 2519015 TI - Immunopathogenesis of Sjogren's syndrome: "facts and fancy". AB - Sjogren's syndrome (Ss) is an ideal model to study the pathogenesis of both autoimmunity and malignancy. It occurs as an organ specific autoimmune disease, alone or in association with almost every other autoimmune disorder, as a systemic disorder, and finally it can evolve to B-cell-lymphoid malignancy. The most consistent finding in the syndrome, the B-cell-hyperreactivity, follows the same steps of evolution. It starts as polyclonal, but not random, since the autoantibody profile correlates with the disease subgroups and the systemic manifestations and it seems to be controlled by the MHC gene composition. Further, in the systemic form of the disease it presents as a poly-oligo-mono clonal process and ends up to monoclonal (IgMk) B-lymphoid malignancy. Studies on the T-immunoregulatory subsets and function can not explain this B-cell hyperreactivity. The initial trigger is unknown. Estrogens, known as immunoenhancers possibly promote the B-cell hyperreactivity and certain genes controlling HLA class-II MHC molecules may represent susceptibility factors for the development of the disease. The discovery of lymphokines and particularly the B-cell growth and differentiation factors as well as the rapid development of the retro-virology field may give answers pertinent to the pathogenesis of Ss and to B-cell lymphoid malignancy. PMID- 2519016 TI - Epibodies in autoimmunity: antisera against autoantibodies to the renal glomerular basement membrane react with idiotypes as well as with autoantigens. AB - The results reported here show that we have experimentally produced xenogeneic anti-idiotypic antibodies to rat autoantibodies specific for the renal GBM and one of its components, laminin. Cross-reactive idiotypes have been detected by anti-idiotypic antibodies (anti-Id) on autoantibodies to the GBM (anti-GBM) from rats of different strains, confirming the results obtained in other autoantibody systems. During the course of studies aimed at determining whether anti-Id were directed to the paratope of anti-GBM antibodies, we have observed the presence of anti-GBM (and anti-laminin) antibodies in rabbit sera with anti-Id. Affinity chromatography experiments suggest that anti-GBM reactions detected with our anti Id sera may be caused by a heterogeneous combination of anti-Id. Thus, Ab2 alpha (and/or Ab2 gamma, all reacting with Ab1), Ab2 epsilon (epibodies, that bind to both Ab1 and GBM) and Ab3 (similar to Ab1 and therefore, reacting with GBM) may be present in our anti-Id sera. It has been suggested that antibodies displaying epibody properties may be involved in the mutual regulation of autoreactive clones and represent an important component of the autoimmune process. PMID- 2519017 TI - Pituitary-cell autoantibody diversity in sera from patients with untreated Graves' disease. AB - Sera from 22 untreated patients with recently diagnosed Graves' disease (GD) were screened in an immunocytochemical tissue assay for presumptive pituitary IgG autoantibodies, as defined by the presence of immunoreaction with rat and swine pituitary cell types. Forty four patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) and 97 healthy subjects were also studied. Anti-pituitary antibodies were found in 14 of the 22 GD sera (64%). Of these, 6 sera reacted with cytoplasmic components of growth hormone (GH) cells, 3 with prolactin (PRL) cells, and 5 with both GH and PRL cells. Yet, none of the immunoreactive sera reacted with human GH, bovine PRL or TSH in dot-blot assays and absorption studies. Anti-pituitary antibodies also occurred in 4 of the 44 HT patients (9.1%) and in 9 of the 97 healthy subjects (9.2%). The frequency of sera revealing anti-pituitary antibodies was significantly higher in patients with GD compared to the groups of HT patients (P less than 0.00005), and healthy subjects (P less than 0.00005). Healthy subjects and patients with HT had a similar frequency of anti-pituitary antibodies (P = 1.0000). These data demonstrate that in thyroid autoimmune conditions antibodies reactive with cytoplasmic components of pituitary GH/PRL cells, may be present in sera from patients with GD. The pathological importance of this observation is at present unknown. PMID- 2519018 TI - Expression of HLA-DR mRNA in T cells following activation is early and can precede DNA synthesis. AB - The stimulation of T cells is accompanied by the appearance of a number of activation antigens not found on resting T cells. We have studied the expression of one group of such antigens, the HLA class II antigens (DR, DQ and DP), following stimulation with PHA and PMA. Immunofluorescence studies using monoclonal antibodies indicated that cell surface class II determinants were detectable as little as 30 minutes following stimulation, and that their levels remained constant for about 24 hours, after which they began to increase. Studies on the molecule level demonstrated an increase in the steady state levels of mRNA for DR beta by 15 minutes. Immunoblot analysis of resting T cell lysates using a monoclonal antibody reactive with DR detected a polypeptide of approximately 28 KDa, which agrees with the known molecular mass of the light chain of class II molecules on SDS-PAGE, suggesting that the rapid surface expression might have been due to the presence of pre-formed class II polypeptides. These results demonstrate 1) that T cells defined as resting by conventional criteria contain class II polypeptides and 2) that increases in steady state levels of class II mRNA is a very early event which precedes the initiation of DNA synthesis. PMID- 2519020 TI - Functional, histologic and ultrastructural characteristics of the portal hypertensive gastric mucosa. PMID- 2519019 TI - Quantitation of autoantibody-secreting B cells in systemic lupus erythematosus. AB - An ELISA spot assay was used to quantitate the number of autoantibody-secreting B cells in the peripheral blood of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Patients with active disease had 20 fold more anti-DNA, 4 fold more anti-actin and 3 fold more anti-myosin secreting lymphocytes than controls but normal numbers of anti-cardiolipin and anti-transferrin secreting B cells. 60% of SLE patients had increased numbers of B cells reactive with multiple autoantigens. These data suggest that B cell activation in SLE may be influenced by both antigen-specific and antigen-independent factors. PMID- 2519021 TI - Tongue and skin microcirculation changes in hepatic cirrhosis. PMID- 2519022 TI - Focal mucosal blood flow of oesophageal varices. PMID- 2519023 TI - Alterations of hepatic sinusoids in liver cirrhosis: their involvement in the pathogenesis of portal hypertension. PMID- 2519024 TI - Altered distribution of intrahepatic nerve fibres in cirrhosis. PMID- 2519026 TI - Duodenal lesions and duodenal blood flow in liver cirrhosis. PMID- 2519025 TI - Alteration of intestinal microcirculation during portal pressure elevation. PMID- 2519027 TI - Histochemical characterizations of gastric erosion formed in chronic CCl4-treated rats. PMID- 2519028 TI - Gastric mucus secretion in portal hypertension. PMID- 2519029 TI - Gastric lesions in surgical patients with oesophageal transection for oesophageal varices. PMID- 2519030 TI - Endoscopic, histologic and haemodynamic studies on portal hypertensive gastric mucosa. PMID- 2519031 TI - Gastric mucosal lesion in liver disease: impaired gastric mucosal defence mechanism in rats with induced liver injury and in patients with liver cirrhosis. PMID- 2519032 TI - Experimental studies on the pathogenesis of AGML in patients with portal hypertension. PMID- 2519033 TI - Causative relationship between a hyperdynamic state due to increased A-V anastomoses in the gastric wall and AGML in patients with liver cirrhosis. PMID- 2519034 TI - Study of the relationship between portal hypertension and gastroduodenal mucosal lesions. PMID- 2519036 TI - Study of the mucosal damage of gastropathy in portal hypertension. PMID- 2519035 TI - Current status of surgical treatment of portal hypertension. PMID- 2519038 TI - Gastric mucosal lesions in liver cirrhosis: relationship between endoscopic findings and portal haemodynamics. PMID- 2519037 TI - Endoscopic observation of upper gastrointestinal mucosal changes in chronic liver diseases. PMID- 2519039 TI - Blood distribution and redness of the gastric mucosa in patients with oesophageal varices. PMID- 2519040 TI - Endoscopic sclerotherapy using absolute alcohol. PMID- 2519041 TI - Haemorrhage in the upper digestive tract due to portal hypertension: clinicopathological examinations of the foci of haemorrhage. PMID- 2519042 TI - Endoscopic injection sclerotherapy: variants of sclerotherapy technique. PMID- 2519043 TI - Mechanism of action of ethanolamine oleate used in injection sclerotherapy with special emphasis on the bronze varices. PMID- 2519045 TI - Prognosis of endoscopic sclerotherapy for oesophageal varices compared with oesophageal transection. PMID- 2519044 TI - Oesophageal variceal sclerotherapy with 3% aqueous phenol in management of portal hypertension. PMID- 2519046 TI - Use of a new embolic and sclerotic agent (GT-XIII) in endoscopic sclerotherapy. PMID- 2519047 TI - Long-term results of sclerotherapy for oesophageal varices. PMID- 2519048 TI - Endoscopic injection sclerotherapy for gastric varices (direct injection method) under X-ray monitoring. PMID- 2519049 TI - Endoscopic control of post-sclerosing recurrent bleeding. PMID- 2519051 TI - Efficacy of endoscopic sclerotherapy on long-term management of oesophageal varices due to cirrhosis of liver, non-cirrhotic portal fibrosis and extrahepatic obstruction: comparison of results. PMID- 2519050 TI - Development of splenorenal shunts after endoscopic obliteration of oesophageal varices. PMID- 2519052 TI - Maintenance of gastric mucosal integrity: active role for tissue-specific intercellular matrix. PMID- 2519053 TI - Vascular architecture of the lower oesophagus in portal hypertension. PMID- 2519054 TI - Pathomorphologic and angio-architectural studies of oesophagogastric varices. PMID- 2519055 TI - Evaluation of the formation of oesophageal varices and the prognosis of cirrhosis of the liver by per rectal portal scintigraphy. PMID- 2519056 TI - Studies on haemodynamics of the left gastric vein by the pulsed Doppler method. PMID- 2519057 TI - Possibility of quantitative measurement of azygos venous blood flow using transoesophageal colour Doppler ultrasound. PMID- 2519059 TI - Medical treatment of oesophageal varices by a long-term propranolol administration. PMID- 2519058 TI - Azygos venous blood flow in portal hypertension: an assessment of superior portosystemic collaterals before and after non-shunting operation. PMID- 2519060 TI - Effects of exogenous prostaglandin E1 derivative on portal vein blood flow and gastric mucosal blood flow in patients with liver cirrhosis. PMID- 2519061 TI - Haemodynamic effects of triglycyl-lysine vasopressin plus nitroglycerin in patients with HBsAg-positive cirrhosis. PMID- 2519062 TI - Large spontaneous splenorenal shunt and its clinical significance. PMID- 2519063 TI - Clinical evaluation of spontaneous splenorenal or gastrorenal shunt in patients with liver cirrhosis. PMID- 2519064 TI - Clinical outcome of non-shunting operation for oesophageal varices in patients with liver cirrhosis. PMID- 2519065 TI - Closure of portosystemic shunt. PMID- 2519066 TI - Angiographic study of haemodynamics in portal hypertension. PMID- 2519067 TI - Endoscopic and radiological appraisal of gastric varices. PMID- 2519068 TI - Significance of monitoring oesophageal variceal pressure. PMID- 2519069 TI - Effect of propranolol on oesophageal variceal pressure in a patient with extrahepatic portal obstruction. PMID- 2519070 TI - Effects of propranolol and nitroglycerin on portal pressure and the mechanism of their reducing portal pressure. PMID- 2519071 TI - Serum total bile acid and its profile in endoscopic injection sclerotherapy for oesophageal varices. PMID- 2519073 TI - Gastric emptying of mixed solid and liquid meal after the non-shunting operation for oesophageal varices. PMID- 2519072 TI - Clinical study of the aggressive factors of the gastric mucosa in liver cirrhosis. PMID- 2519074 TI - Stress ulcer bleeding in the critically ill. PMID- 2519075 TI - Glomerulonephritis complicating non-cirrhotic portal fibrosis. PMID- 2519076 TI - Hepatic microcirculatory disturbance in fatty liver as a cause of portal hypertension. PMID- 2519077 TI - Analysis of the interrelationship between tests for hepatic function and haemodynamics of portal blood flow in patients with liver cirrhosis. PMID- 2519078 TI - Successful use of vancomycin hydrochloride in the treatment of lactulose resistant chronic hepatic encephalopathy. PMID- 2519079 TI - Intestinal microflora in cirrhotic patients and their changes after administration of Latamoxef in combination with drug-resistant Bifidobacterium longum. PMID- 2519080 TI - Colonic varices in portal hypertension. PMID- 2519081 TI - Prevalence of anorectal varices in cirrhosis. PMID- 2519082 TI - Steatohepatitis: comparison of alcoholic and non-alcoholic subjects with particular reference to portal hypertension and hepatic complications. PMID- 2519083 TI - Evaluation of the portal hypertensive patient. AB - Portal hypertension is characterized by a chronic increase in portal venous pressure. This is initiated by an increased vascular resistance to portal blood flow. In advanced stages, however, blood flow increases and contributes to worsen and maintain portal hypertension. Increased pressure and blood flow within the portal system promotes the appearance and dilation of portal-systemic collaterals and oesophageal varices, which are responsible for the main complication of portal hypertension: massive gastrointestinal haemorrhage. In recent years there have been several major innovations in the evaluation of portal hypertension. These include the application of new endoscopic, ultrasonographic and haemodynamic techniques that allow a better evaluation of the portal hypertensive patient, especially when prophylactic medical therapy is considered. Ultrasonography is very useful to assess the patency of the portal vein. The association of a pulsed Doppler flowmeter increases its accuracy and allows the non-invasive estimation of the direction and magnitude of portal blood flow. In addition to the measurement of portal pressure, measurement of azygos venous blood flow has proven very useful in the haemodynamic evaluation of portal hypertension. Azygos blood flow represents an index of blood flow through gastro oesophageal collaterals and varices draining in the azygos vein. Its main application has been the assessment of the effects of pharmacological therapy. Endoscopic measurements of variceal pressure, either by direct puncture or using non-invasive pressure gauges, have contributed significantly to the understanding of the mechanism of variceal haemorrhage. This technique allows the calculation of the variceal wall tension as the product of the transmural pressure at the varices and the radius of the varix.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2519084 TI - Electron microscopy of the liver in portal hypertension. PMID- 2519085 TI - Immunological studies of the pathogenesis of idiopathic portal hypertension. PMID- 2519086 TI - IgM abnormalities in the families of patients with primary biliary cirrhosis. PMID- 2519087 TI - Immunological response and oesophageal varices in PBC. AB - A retrospective study was made of the clinical features, especially oesophageal varices, of 93 patients with PBC. The 5 year survival rate of asymptomatic PBC patients was 88.7% and that of symptomatic PBC was 43.7%. The 5 year survival rate of the group with oesophageal varices was 44.0% and that of the group without varices was 68.8%. The 5 year survival rate of the patients with high risk varices was 39.1% and of those without high-risk varices was 67.9%. Management of variceal bleeding in PBC patients was considered very difficult. In prognostic study, the patients with the prophylactic therapy were better than the patients with emergency or elective therapy. The antiM8 (a subtype of antimitochondrial antibody) positive patients had poor prognosis compared with antiM8 negative patients. Therefore, it was concluded from these data that some kind of treatment was necessary for patients with high-risk varices. In particular, it was considered necessary to monitor closely the patients whose serum alkaline phosphatase levels had remained high. PMID- 2519088 TI - Network of immunological and inflammatory reaction in chronic liver disease. PMID- 2519089 TI - IgA deposition in chronic liver diseases: an immunocytochemical study. PMID- 2519090 TI - Molecular forms of IgA-type antibodies to extrinsic and viral antigens in chronic liver diseases. PMID- 2519092 TI - Campylobacter pylori infection and gastric mucosal lesions in patients with chronic liver diseases. PMID- 2519091 TI - Alterations of intestinal lymphatic system and mucosal immunity in CCl4-induced portal hypertensive rats. PMID- 2519094 TI - Natural history and treatment of portal hypertensive gastropathy. PMID- 2519093 TI - Gastric mucosal microcirculatory disturbances in portal hypertension. PMID- 2519095 TI - Endoscopic measurement of gastric mucosal blood flow by laser Doppler flowmeter in patients with liver cirrhosis. PMID- 2519096 TI - Changes in gastric mucosal blood flow after surgical therapy for oesophageal varices. PMID- 2519097 TI - Changes in gastric mucosal microcirculation and mucosal lesions in portal hypertensive rats. PMID- 2519098 TI - An experimental study on the vascular structure of the lower oesophagus and upper stomach in portal hypertensive rats. PMID- 2519099 TI - Gastric mucosal blood flow in portal hypertension, gastropathy and sclerotherapy. PMID- 2519101 TI - Microcirculatory disturbances of oral mucosa and periodontal disease in patients with liver cirrhosis. AB - This study showed: (1) The bone score in cirrhotic patients was significantly lower than that in the control group. (2) In liver cirrhosis, capillaries were decreased in number and they were dilated compared to that in the control. In particular, the capillaries in cirrhotic patients with ascites or oesophageal varices were dilated compared to those without. (3) Blood flow of the mucogingival junction was significantly decreased in patients with liver cirrhosis in comparison with the control group. These results suggest that microcirculatory disturbances of oral mucosa are important in the progress of periodontal disease in patients with liver cirrhosis. PMID- 2519100 TI - The study of gastric mucosal changes and their mechanism in patients with liver cirrhosis. PMID- 2519102 TI - Microcomputer voice-recognition program in a hospital emergency department. AB - A software program for voice-controlled text creation was used on a microcomputer in the emergency medical department of a large hospital. It was found that automated speech recognition (ASR) permitted doctors to produce their reports faster and more accurately than handwriting or dictation to tape. In addition, ASR reporting is cheaper than dictation to tape. Other advantages include the automatic creation of computer-stored patient files that can be used for statistical purposes. There were a few minor drawbacks, including the need for a procedure for training the system to recognize the user's voice. PMID- 2519103 TI - Using microcomputers to improve the timeliness, accuracy, and accessibility of clinical data. AB - This article presents a microcomputer system as a solution to achieve timely, accurate and accessible clinical data. The article describes the components of the clinical data system as well as its functionality. The advantages of automated encoders for coding, editing and grouping of clinical data are outlined, as well as the advantages of relational database software for clinical data management. Clinical data support a myriad of activities within the health care facility. The microcomputer system provides the departmental user with flexibility and customization to meet and manage the ever-changing clinical data requirements. Client hospital experience demonstrate, not only an increase in the accuracy and availability of data, but also an increase in the productivity of the data collection process itself. PMID- 2519104 TI - The role of microcomputers in electronic health claims processing. AB - This article explores the state-of-the-art in electronic health claims processing. Beginning with an examination of the step-by-step manual process, it moves on to explore the current use of microcomputers to both speed up the processing, and to improve the accuracy and completeness of claim submission. The article also examines some of the benefits cited by microcomputer claims systems users, and it concludes with a look at what features could be incorporated in the future to create a fully electronic claims processing environment. PMID- 2519105 TI - Simulation analysis of an outpatient services facility. AB - Anderson Memorial Hospital in Anderson, South Carolina is in the process of constructing a new Outpatient Services Center. The Outpatient Services Center will combine existing outpatient services within the hospital and offsite services at the Outpatient Diagnostic Center. A simulation model of the proposed facility has been developed based on historical data. The information obtained from the simulation model includes the analysis of outpatient services utilization, patient waiting and flow times, and service area queue sizes. This information has been used to determine minimum facility design requirements, such as waiting room size, based on the expected demands. PMID- 2519106 TI - Standard cost accounting and productivity systems--an integrated approach. AB - Today's hospital managers require management systems that provide better operational and financial information. The standard response to meeting this need for more sophisticated management information has been the implementation of a fragmented set of information systems products. The result of this has been that managers are getting inconsistent information on the performance of their operations. This article describes the approach taken to respond to the need for better information through the development and implementation of an integrated productivity management, cost accounting, and flexible budgeting system. PMID- 2519107 TI - Managing the acquisition, installation and benefit realization of microcomputer based systems in healthcare. AB - This paper discusses the critical issues which must be addressed when facing the decision to acquire and implement new microcomputer based systems. The first issue is the process for developing a range of alternatives at various levels of sophistication. A second key issue is the development of a full cost analysis which includes such costs as cost of parallel operation, cost of back up systems, training costs and initial system modification costs. The third critical issue is the development of a benefit realization plan which has the support of both top management and line management. PMID- 2519108 TI - Management of microsystems at Forbes Health System. AB - Support for purchase and operation of microsystems hardware and software at Forbes Health System in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is provided by Management Engineering, part of the Management Systems Division. Five key areas of support are described in this paper: Purchase Control, Installation Management, Operational Support, Development Services and Training Management. Discussion of multiple training options, centralized hardware support and specialized levels of end user operational support are included. Some future directions in software and hardware utilization are also presented. PMID- 2519109 TI - Health care information systems architecture of the near future. AB - Major changes in the health care delivery environment in recent years have generated new demands for information and new stresses on Health Care Information Systems. These systems, intended to support the decision making, operations, and competitiveness of health care organizations, must evolve rapidly or become obsolete. This paper discusses key aspects of systems architecture that will emerge in the near future to enable enhanced function and use of new technologies, while preserving the value of investments health care organizations have already made in information technology. PMID- 2519110 TI - Optical disk storage and retrieval for medical records document management. AB - This paper describes the REPLICA System as it is used at Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. The paper discusses the current health care environment, and it gives a perspective on the medical record and the status of optical technology. Manual procedures at Regional West Medical Center are reviewed along with the changes in procedures after the implementation of REPLICA. The benefits and savings are included. PMID- 2519111 TI - Isolation, characterization and sequence analysis of a full-length cDNA clone encoding NADH-dependent hydroxypyruvate reductase from cucumber. AB - A full-length cDNA encoding NADH-dependent hydroxypyruvate reductase (HPR), a photorespiratory enzyme localized in leaf peroxisomes, was isolated from a lambda gt11 cDNA library made by reverse transcription of poly(A)+ RNA from cucumber cotyledons. In vitro transcription and translation of this clone yielded a major polypeptide which was identical in size, 43 kDA, to the product of in vitro translation of cotyledonary poly(A)+ RNA and subsequent immunoprecipitation with HPR antiserum. Escherichia coli cultures transformed with a plasmid construct containing the cDNA insert were induced to express HPR enzyme activity. RNA blot analysis showed that HPR transcript levels rise significantly in the first eight days of light-grown seedling development. This closely resembles the pattern seen for HPR-specific translatable mRNA. DNA blot analysis indicated that a single HPR gene is likely present per haploid genome. Nucleotide sequence analysis revealed an open reading frame of 1146 bases which encodes a polypeptide with a calculated molecular weight of 41.7 kDa. The derived amino acid sequence from this open reading frame is 26% identical and 50% similar to the amino acid sequence of the E. coli enzyme phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase, which catalyzes a similar reaction and functions in a related pathway. Statistical analyses show that this similarity is significant (z greater than 10). The derived amino acid sequence for HPR also contains the characteristics of an NAD-binding domain. PMID- 2519112 TI - Analysis of the major inducers of the Rhizobium nodA promoter from Vicia sativa root exudate and their activity with different nodD genes. AB - Root exudate of Vicia sativa contains 7 inducers for the nodA promoter of Rhizobium leguminosarum biovar viciae. Six of these inducers are flavanones. One inducer was identified as 3,5,7,3'-tetrahydroxy-4'-methoxyflavanone, and a second inducer most likely is 7,3'-dihydroxy-4'-methoxyflavanone. The inducing activity of these compounds and the other inducers depends on the nodD gene present in the test strains, which originated either from R. leguminosarum biovars viciae or trifolii, or from R. meliloti. Three inducers are 'common', three others almost exclusively induce the nodA promoter in the presence of the R. leguminosarum biovar viciae nodD gene, and the last one is active with the noD genes of either R. leguminosarum biovar viciae or that of R. meliloti. Testing of a large number of flavonoids revealed two classes of structural features required for inducing ability: (i) features required for induction in general, and (ii), features restricting the inducing ability to (a) specific nodD gene(s). These features are discussed in relation to current models of the process of nodD-mediated transcription activation of the inducible nod genes. PMID- 2519113 TI - Maize pyruvate decarboxylase mRNA is induced anaerobically. AB - A cDNA was identified using an oligonucleotide designed by comparing the sequences of bacterial and yeast pyruvate decarboxylase. The sequence of the cDNA identified by the oligonucleotide contained an open reading frame that encoded a protein of 65 kDa that was similar in sequence to bacterial and yeast pyruvate decarboxylase. This protein was selectively precipitated by an antiserum specific for maize PDC. Northern-blot analysis shows that PDC mRNA is anaerobically induced. Southern-blot analysis of maize genomic DNA indicated that the maize PDC gene has a single or low copy number. PMID- 2519115 TI - Isolation and nucleotide sequence of cDNA clones encoding potato chitinase genes. PMID- 2519114 TI - Monoclonal antibody-based immunoaffinity chromatography for purifying corn and squash NADH: nitrate reductases. Evidence for an interchain disulfide bond in nitrate reductase. AB - NADH: nitrate reductase (EC 1.6.6.1) (NR) is present in small amounts in plant tissues and its polypeptide in inherently labile. Consequently, NR is difficult to purify. We have generated 20 monoclonal antibodies (McAb) for corn and squash NR and selected two for use in immunoaffinity chromatography. Squash McAb CM 15(11) and corn McAb ZM 2(69)9, which both bind corn and squash NR, were covalently coupled to Sepharose and used for purification of NR with elution of the purified enzyme by a pH 11 buffer. Although this procedure yielded highly purified NR, its activity was diminished by the pH 11 treatment. When corn leaf crude extract was applied to McAb CM 15(11)-Sepharose, NR bound and could be eluted in homogeneous form by its substrate, NADH. Corn leaf NR prepared by substrate elution retained a high level of NADH: NR activity. Immunoaffinity purified corn and squash NR were shown to have an interchain disulfide bond as well as a reactive thiol group. These results are discussed in relation to the recently obtained sequences of NR clones and suggestions made for site-directed mutagenesis experiments to aid in identifying the cysteine residues of NR associated with these features of the enzyme. PMID- 2519116 TI - Nucleotide sequence of the intergenic spacer (IGS) of the tomato ribosomal DNA. PMID- 2519118 TI - Treating depression in the elderly. PMID- 2519117 TI - Nucleotide sequence of the plastid genes for apocytochrome b6 (petB) and subunit IV of the cytochrome b6-f complex (petD) from the green alga Chlorella protothecoides: lack of introns. PMID- 2519119 TI - Flumazenil--the first benzodiazepine antagonist. PMID- 2519120 TI - Atrial fibrillation and stroke: do anticoagulants help? PMID- 2519121 TI - An atenolol/nifedipine tablet for hypertension--useful or not? PMID- 2519122 TI - Choosing between oral amoxycillin, pivampicillin and ampicillin. PMID- 2519125 TI - Help for erectile impotence. PMID- 2519124 TI - Captopril and hydrochlorothiazide combined: Acezide/Capozide. PMID- 2519123 TI - Appropriate management of ageing thyroids. PMID- 2519126 TI - Monoamine oxidase inhibitors move up the menu. PMID- 2519128 TI - Delivery systems for inhaled drugs in asthma. PMID- 2519127 TI - 'Responsibility for drug-induced injury'--a valuable reference book. PMID- 2519129 TI - Chronic sinusitis. PMID- 2519130 TI - New Opticrom--same name, thicker eyedrops. PMID- 2519131 TI - Tenoxicam--yet another NSAID. PMID- 2519132 TI - Topical minoxidil does little for baldness. PMID- 2519134 TI - Fibrinolysis for myocardial infarction: the ISIS-2 and asset trials. PMID- 2519133 TI - Relaxation therapy for hypertensive patients. PMID- 2519135 TI - Desmopressin for nocturnal enuresis? PMID- 2519136 TI - Buprenorphine is now a controlled drug. PMID- 2519137 TI - Sickle cell disease and the non-specialist. PMID- 2519138 TI - Local drug formularies--are they worth the effort? PMID- 2519139 TI - Drugs for the doctor's bag 1989. PMID- 2519141 TI - Human insulins: an update. PMID- 2519140 TI - Netilmicin reassessed. PMID- 2519142 TI - Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation to relieve pain. PMID- 2519143 TI - Buspirone--an alternative drug for anxiety? PMID- 2519144 TI - Withdrawing antiepileptic drugs. PMID- 2519145 TI - Managing obesity successfully. PMID- 2519146 TI - RNA splicing in yeast. PMID- 2519148 TI - What do viruses look like? PMID- 2519149 TI - Transmembrane signaling, G proteins, and adenylyl cyclase. PMID- 2519150 TI - Some observation on the life history of lymphocytes. PMID- 2519147 TI - Transport of proteins into mitochondria. PMID- 2519151 TI - [Findings from the clinical examination of the oral cavity of one hundred drug addicts]. AB - The authors studied the findings from the clinical examination of the oral cavity of one hundred drug addicts that were prisoners at Korydalos prison, in order to evaluate the incidence and the possible correlation of these findings to the drug abuse. This study revealed that drug addicts present lesions of the oral mucosa such as redness of the pharyngeal mucosa (57%), melanchromatic spots on the lips (35%) and hairy tongue (57%). Also, a high incidence of carious lesions was found (46%), of missing teeth (42%) and of periodontal disease (57%). These percentages are much higher than those found in a random population. It was also revealed that in the above group there was a high incidence of serum hepatitis (23%) and of AIDS (8%), while other systemic diseases were also found. PMID- 2519152 TI - [Oral lichen planus. A clinical study of 228 cases]. AB - Oral lichen planus is a common dermatologic disease of unknown etiology, with characteristic clinical manifestations from the skin and the oral mucosa as well. In our study we analyzed the observations in 228 patients with oral lichen planus. The location and the type of the oral lesions of this disease are discussed as well as the prevalence of age-sex and the incidence of the disease. The results of our findings can be summarized as following 1) The reticular type is the most common clinical form. 2) Buccal mucosa is the most frequent location. 3) Females are affected more frequently. 4) The most frequent age in which the disease appears is the 6th decade. The importance of these conclusions are compared and discussed with the findings of other authors. PMID- 2519153 TI - [Differential diagnosis of bluish and pigmented lesions of the oral mucosa]. AB - The clinical features of the most common bluish and pigmented lesions of the oral mucosa are discussed in this paper. Considerable attention is given to the findings from the medical and dental history of the patient, in the methodology of the clinical examination (inspection, palpation, digital pressure, aspiration) in the clinical characteristics of the lesions (location, size duration, consistency, prognosis) in the laboratory findings (radiographs and other supplementary examinations) and in the differential diagnosis. The bluish and pigmented lesions which are discussed include: melanoma, Albright's syndrome, Addison's diseases, Peutz-Jeghers's syndrome, arsening poisoning, hemangioma, hematoma, petechia and ecchymosis, Sturge-Weber syndrome, amalgam tatoo, heavy metal lines, mucocele and eruption cyst. PMID- 2519154 TI - [Properties of the polycarboxylate and glass-ionomer cements]. AB - This paper is a review article on the properties of the polycarboxylate and glass ionomer cements. Much research has been done during the past years on the strength, solubility and adhesion of these cements with the dental tissues and the conclusions on these topics are discussed in this paper. PMID- 2519155 TI - [Identification of a body from dental findings]. AB - The author starts by briefly reviewing the meaning and applications of Forensic Dentistry emphasizing the ethical and legal responsibility of the dentist who is called upon by the police and the Service of Forensic Medicine to contribute to the identification of a dead person. Next, the author describes an interesting case where the identification was possible by documenting more than ten points coinciding between the dental record of the person suspected to be the dead and the findings from the examination of the oral cavity of the body. PMID- 2519156 TI - [Changes of the elastomer impression materials after their immersion in some disinfection agents for AIDS infection control purposes]. AB - In achieving infection control in the dental office and the dental laboratory it has been suggested that impressions made in the dental office should be disinfected before they are send to the dental laboratory. In this study we examined the solubility and the linear changes of some elastomer impression materials after their immersion in disinfection agents after ten, twenty and forty minute time intervals. The disinfection agents used were: 75% alcohol, domestic chlorine 10%, the agent sterile pack (isopropyl alcohol) and 2% activated glutaraldehyde (SIDEX). Water was used as control. Our findings show that all types of elastomer impression materials appear to suffer insignificant changes both linear and weight-wise but polyether impression materials show significant changes in almost all the disinfection agents that were used and the time intervals that were studied. PMID- 2519157 TI - [Quality assessment of fillings by place and type of provider]. AB - The purpose of this study was to determine the quality of 1310 fillings among third-year dental students of Athens University. The mean age of fillings was 5.6 years. The classification of fillings into three categories of quality showed that 41.4% were satisfactory, 47.2% were acceptable but needed to be refinished, and finally 11.4% had to be replaced. The main reasons for failure were poor performance of anatomic form, secondary caries, poor marginal adaptation and soft tissues damage. The comparison of quality of fillings by place and type of provider showed that University Dental Clinic's fillings were of significantly better quality than those rendered in private or public dental clinics either in Athens or elsewhere. On the contrary the comparison of quality of fillings by place and type of provider (University Clinic excluded) did not show any significant differences. PMID- 2519159 TI - [Blood cell count in a reference chilean population]. AB - Since the 1930's peripheral blood cell counts are among the most common clinical tests contributing to diagnosis of a wide variety of diseases. The original Schilling formula, based on findings in a European population at the beginning of this century are still used as reference in our country. We therefore report the values found in a population of both sexes without manifest disease and qualifying to be blood donors. Means, 5 and 95 percentiles for 212 males and 43 females obtained with the use of a Technicon H6000 are reported. PMID- 2519158 TI - [Volume, flow and respiratory muscle strength in mitral stenosis]. AB - Pulmonary function and respiratory muscle strength was assessed in 20 patients with mitral stenosis uncomplicated by other illness. Pulmonary function was evaluated by spirometry, flow-volume curves, functional residual capacity (FRC) and total lung capacity (TLC). Respiratory muscle strength was evaluated by measurement of maximal static inspiratory and expiratory mouth pressure (PIM, PEM cmH2O) at FRC and TLC respectively. Spirometric, FRC and TLC average values were normal. The maximal expiratory flow rate at 50 and 25% of vital capacity were decreased to 49.5 and 38.3% from predicted values. The values of PIM and PEM in patients (-93 +/- 17; 128 +/- 32 cmH2O, respectively) were similar to those of 12 normal subjects studied at comparable lung volume. Our results were similar to previous reports. There was no evidence of decreased respiratory muscle force, probably because the patients nutritional status and cardiac output were normal. PMID- 2519160 TI - [Mirizzi syndrome: experience of 77 cases]. AB - Mirizzi syndrome is estimated to occur in about 1% of cases requiring urgent or elective biliary tract surgery. The key anatomic finding is extrinsic compression of the common duct by a stone located in the gallbladder or cystic duct. Among patients operated on in the last 12 years we have found 77 patients meeting criteria to diagnose Mirizzi syndrome. 76% were females, usually over 40 years of age; jaundice was present in 98% and elevated alkaline phosphatase in 97% of cases. Percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography allowed the diagnosis in 32 of 41 patients. The most common surgical technique involved a patch repair of the gallbladder over the Kehr tube in 45 patients. Eight patients required biliary jejunal bypass. Eleven patients were reoperated on for benign stenosis of the biliary tract over a 1 month to 10 year period of follow up. PMID- 2519161 TI - [Clinical experience in diabetes and pregnancy]. AB - We followed patients with pregnancy and diabetes in an outpatient clinic. 240 had gestational diabetes, 16 had type II and 5 type I diabetes. 85% of 110 patients with gestational diabetes had normal glucose tolerance test post partum (AGT). Type I patients were younger (25 years old) than AGT (32) or type II (33) patients. Complications frequently observed among diabetics included hypertension, premature membrane rupture and polyhydroamnios (the latter only among AGT and type II patients). Insulin was required for diabetes control in 14% of cases. Cesarean section was more frequent in diabetics than in a control population (21%): AGT 45%, type II 45% and type I 60%. Larger newborns occurred in 21% of AGT and 22% of type II as compared to 6% in controls. Neonatal mortality was 2.1% in AGT patients (0.8% in controls). Hyperbilirrubinemia, polyglobulia and hypocalcemia were more frequent among newborns of diabetic patients. PMID- 2519162 TI - [Clinical experience with etretinate (Tigason) in 26 patients with psoriasis]. AB - The effect of etretinate was evaluated in 26 patients with psoriasis unresponsive to conventional therapy. Twenty patients had the common variety of the disease, 3 had inverse psoriasis, 2 had arthropathy and 1 had plantar psoriasis. In addition, 17 patients had nail involvement. The drug was started at dose of 0.6 mg/kg/day; and was adjusted according to clinical response over a mean period of 6.8 months. Disappearance of the plaque occurred in 14 patients (54%) and remained stable for a mean of 7.3 months after therapy. Success rate was higher in patients with nail involvement (80%). Results were good in patients with arthralgia associated to hyperuricemia, psoriatic arthropathy and in one patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Mild effects of vitamin A toxicity were observed in 100% of cases. The drug was discontinued in 4 patients due to hypertriglyceridemia. PMID- 2519163 TI - [Scintigraphic method for the study of painful shoulder syndrome: differential count]. AB - Pain may be present in different sites in patients with a painful shoulder syndrome. We compared (scintigraphy) 56 patients with unilateral painful shoulder syndrome and 26 controls. A differential count index (DCI) was used to evaluate painful sites. Values (mean +/- SD) obtained for patients and controls at different sites were: acromioclavicular joint 1.53 +/- 0.33 vs 1.09 +/- 0.08 (p less than 0.005); * 1.30 +/- 0.39 vs 1.07 +/- 0.07 (p less than 0.01); scapular insertion of deltoid muscle 1.61 +/- 0.40 vs 1.10 +/- 0.10 (p less than 0.005); scapular insertion of trapezius muscle 1.31 +/- 0.21 vs 1.08 +/- 0.06 (p less than 0.005). Average number of painful sites for patients 40 years and older was 2.24 vs 1.58 for younger patients (p less than 0.005). Sensitivity and specificity for pain in the various sites was: * 50% and 90%: acromioclavicular joint 85% and 88%; scapular insertion of deltoid muscle 83 and 90%; and scapular insertion of trapezius muscle 71 and 80%, respectively. PMID- 2519164 TI - [Indoprofen in chronic intermittent peritoneal dialysis: effects in the clearance of small molecules and protein loss]. AB - We studied the effects of indoprofen on urea and creatinine clearance and on protein loss in 6 patients submitted to intermittent peritoneal dialysis. The patients had no evidence of peritonitis. Dialysis fluid contained indoprofen (50 mg/l) or no drug. Mean protein loss into dialysis solution was 51.2 g without and 44.7 g with indoprofen (NS). Urea clearance was 33.3 and 33.6 ml/min and creatinine clearance 24.7 and 36.0 ml/min, respectively (NS). Levels of PGF2 alpha in the dialysate, measured in 2 subjects, were not affected by indoprofen. These results suggest that prostaglandins are not the main factors involved in control of urea and creatinine clearance and protein loss during intermittent peritoneal dialysis. PMID- 2519165 TI - [Hematologic changes in anorexia nervosa]. AB - We studied the hematologic values of 25 patients with anorexia nervosa. Age ranged from 12 to 38 years and 22 were females. Mean hematocrit was decreased to 36% and total leukocyte count to 4.400/microliters. Anemia was diagnosed in 13 patients. It was normocytic in 7 hypochromic microcytic in 7 and megaloblastic in 2. Seven of these anemic patients corrected their anemia with the treatment of anorexia nervosa, 3 required iron supplement and 2 folic acid. Bone marrow studies in 23 patients demonstrated hypoplasia in 17. Four patients had global bone marrow hypoplasia with decreased numbers of erythroblasts and megakaryocytes. A mucopolysaccharide substance substituted for a decreased fat content of bone marrow. A decreased bone marrow reserve of neutrophils and their margination in blood vessels contributed to leukopenia, which was not associated to an increased number of infections. Blood coagulation tests and platelet aggregation were normal. PMID- 2519166 TI - [Sheehan syndrome and spontaneous pregnancy: report of 2 cases]. AB - Two patients receiving substitution therapy for Sheehan syndrome became pregnant. No pituitary trophins, except LH responded to stimulation with the hypothalamic hormones TRH and Gn-Rh, or insulin induced hypoglycemia. Computed tomography showed a normal size sella with arachnoid cyst. PMID- 2519167 TI - [The sea blue histiocyte syndrome: a case report]. AB - A young pregnant woman presented with splenomegaly and a hemorrhagic syndrome. A persistent alteration of several coagulation tests was demonstrated. Large foamy pigmented macrophages were shown by bone marrow aspiration. The histopathologic findings are consistent with the sea blue histiocyte syndrome, a benign type of lipid storage disease. PMID- 2519168 TI - [Auditory, visual and neurologic toxicity of deferoxamine]. AB - Two cases of deferoxamine toxicity are reported. One affected with auditory toxicity (severe symmetric neurosensory deafness) and the other with anterior ocular pole toxicity (cataracts). A review of the subject is included. PMID- 2519169 TI - [The impact of molecular biology in medicine]. AB - Over 30 years ago the genetic material of most organisms was shown to be deoxyribonucleic acid. A considerable amount of information on the fine structure and function of cells has accumulated during this time and important methodological and conceptual advances have occurred. The molecular biology techniques, restricted for many years to basic biologic research, are now being introduced in several areas of clinical medicine. These new ideas are changing the way scientists and physicians think about normal cell function and disease. The DNA recombinant methods allow us to define the molecular mechanisms of several genetic diseases and consider new therapeutic approaches. The biotechnological industry is now producing hormones, peptides and several vaccines by manipulation of genes in bacteria and cell cultures. Our understanding of cell growth and cell differentiation is opening new ways in cancer research; the use of DNA probes in the diagnostic laboratory is exciting to the clinical microbiologist. Molecular biology will continue to advance in the next decades with increasing economic, social and ethical implications. PMID- 2519170 TI - [The human genome in clinical medicine]. AB - A revolution is taking place in Medicine as a consequence of advances in biotechnology and informatics. The unraveling of the human genome with a description of chromosomal maps for all structural genes affords a new framework for the understanding of etiology, diagnosis and prevention of every disease. More than three thousand million nucleotides codifying over 100 thousand genes may be manipulated by RNA recombinant techniques in order to identify location and help understand pathogeny as well as diagnosis and treatment of disease. Relevant techniques for genome desciphering include familial linkage, somatic cell hybridization, RFLPs, enzymatic quantification and analysis of chromosomal aberrations. Pathology of the genome may originate from germinal or somatic mutations. Resulting diseases may be classified as classic disease, physiologic disorders, congenital malformations and chromosomal aberrations. All diseases arise from alterations in the genome. Substitution of defective genes offers new forms of therapy. Advancing knowledge in this may lead to better control and prevention of genetic diseases. PMID- 2519171 TI - [Solvents exposure: asymptomatic liver injury in addicts?]. PMID- 2519172 TI - [The university clinical hospital and the affiliated teaching hospital]. PMID- 2519173 TI - [Sclerosing therapy for esophageal varices]. PMID- 2519174 TI - [Mortality differences according to sex: causes and associated factors]. AB - A higher general mortality was observed for males between 1981 and 1983, in relation to trauma, cardiovascular and digestive diseases. This may indicate a poorer attitude towards health care in males. The difference is more marked in the younger population and in the old age group due to different causes in each case. Geographic and lifestyle patterns also contribute to explain differences in mortality. Multiple regression analysis suggests that socioeconomic factors explain different mortality rates among geographical regions, with a lesser contribution from differences in the quality of local health care delivery. PMID- 2519175 TI - [The Revista Medica de Chile: 100 years ago (March 1889)]. PMID- 2519176 TI - [CT and MRI anatomical features of the maxillofacial and cervicofacial regions]. PMID- 2519177 TI - [General review of parasitoses involving the maxillofacial region]. AB - All the parasitic diseases which may affect the face and the mouth are reviewed. Protozoan and helminths infections are described as well as arthropod bites and envenomation by other animals. Protozoan infections of interest to the oral and maxillofacial specialist are leishmaniasis, trypanosomiasis, cutaneous amebiasis, and toxoplasmosis. Helminth infections are due to nematodes, trematodes, and cestodes. Nematoda (true roundworm) infections include ankylostomiasis, strongyloidiasis, gnathostomiasis, gongylonemiasis, trichinosis, dracunculosis, loaiasis, filariasis, dirofilariasis, and onchocerciasis. Only schistosomiasis has to be considered in Trematoda (flukes) infections. Cestoda (tapeworms) infections are cysticercosis, equinococcosis, and sparganosis. Finally, episodic bites and stings to the face, by arthropods (spiders, ticks, mites, scorpions, etc.) and many other venomous animals are also possible. PMID- 2519178 TI - [Type F hollow cylinder implant (I.T.I.)]. AB - The single hollow titanium cylinder implant type F is here described. From october 1983 till october 1988, 187 implants were placed in 56 patients. It is possible to use this implant as a replacement for a single tooth or as abutment for a bridge. In case of extreme bone loss of the edentulous jaw, this implant is suitable to create retention and stabilisation for a denture. Up till now 180 implants are in function (96%); 7 implants were lost because of early failures. PMID- 2519179 TI - [Oral manifestations in leukemic children and their diagnostic value]. AB - Leukemia is the most common form of cancer in childhood. The disease is characterized by a high incidence of oral complications at diagnosis and during subsequent treatment. Oral complications can be divided in three groups. Primary lesions are induced by the infiltration of the oral structures by malignant cells: gingival infiltration and infiltration of bony oral structures. Secondary lesions are the result of the myelophthisic character of the disease. This group contains symptoms of anemia, increased bleeding tendency and increased susceptibility to infections. Tertiary lesions are induced by the antileukemic treatment patients receive. Direct and indirect cytotoxic effects can be distinguished. This article reviews the different oral manifestations, describes the most prominent characteristics of the different oral symptoms and demonstrates the importance of early and correct recognition of these symptoms for the oncologist. This can be important for diagnosis of the disease, but also for prevention and treatment of complications during the subsequent treatment. Dentists and stomatologists can contribute to a better prognosis and a reduction of morbidity and mortality of this disease. PMID- 2519180 TI - Pyroglyphid mites in the High Tatras sanatoria. AB - 1. In our work we studied the problematics of house dust fauna in the sanatoria and institutes of the Tatra region, regarding especially the incidence of mites of the family Pyroglyphidae that are considered for the major source of house dust allergen. 2. In eleven places of different altitude in this region, there were in 1982 chosen 13 localities--sanatoria and institutes. Here, once quarterly, were collected house dust samples from beds and floors. 3. In the Locality 1 Helios, Strbske Pleso, the house dust samples were collected in 1976, once in two months, in 1979 once in three months, and in 1982 once quarterly. Here, the involvement of the new--opened sanatorium by house dust mites was studied. 4. House dust samples in the studied localities were collected using the electric vacuum cleaner into the changeable paper bags. The samples were examined by flotation due to Spieksma (1970) and due to the modification of Spieksma's methodics elaborated by Samsinak et al. (1974). 5. The found house dust mites- pyroglyphids were evaluated due to Bronswijk and Sinha (1971) and due to the modification of their methodics elaborated by Samsinak et al. (1974). The classification due to Wharton (1976) was used as well. 6. In every studied locality, in house dust collected from floors and beds, there were identified mites of the family Pyroglyphidae, considered for the major source of house dust allergen. 7. Mites of the family Pyroglyphidae were represented by the genera Dermatophagoides and Euroglyphus, and by the species Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, Dermatophagoides farinae, and Euroglyphus maynei. There were found as well the nymphal instars of the genus Dermatophagoides, in this development degree it is very complicated to determine precisely the species--and that is why the term Dermatophagoides sp. nymphal instar is used. 8. In 1982 there were in the chosen localities collected 764 house dust samples from beds and 20 samples from floors, 186 of them (23.7%) were negative--without any mites. In the positive samples there were identified 1794 arthropods, 1776 were mites and 18 were Psocopterae. Of the total mite number 1263 (71.1%) were mites of the family Pyroglyphidae. 9. The other mite families were represented by 513 pieces, i.e. 28.6% of the total arthropod number. 10. In the studied localities there were identified three species of the family Pyroglyphidae and 15 species of other families, the representatives of the families Ereinaetidae, Tetranychidae (not determined preciselier), and Oribatei.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2519181 TI - Ultrastructure of bronchial submucosal glands in children with chronic respiratory diseases. AB - The ultrastructure of bronchial submucosal glands in 4 children with chronic respiratory diseases was studied. Based on their ultrastructure the glandular secretory cells were divided into four categories: 1. mucous cells packed with large electron-lucent coalescing granules with fibrogranular matrix, 2. mucous like cells with abundant granular endoplasmic reticulum and fewer smaller electron-lucent granules, 3. serous cells containing small to moderately large membrane-bound electron-dense granules with homogenous matrix and prominent granular endoplasmic reticulum, 4. sero-mucous cells similar to the serous ones but containing granules of either serous or mucous morphology. In our patients the mucous and mucous-like cells prevailed, forming 54.6%-100% of the glands' secretory area. Only in 2 children all four types of secretory cells were detected. Signs of pathological alteration were discovered in secretory cells of all patients. The system of intra- and interlobular ducts was lined by tall mucous cells. PMID- 2519182 TI - [Boron neutron capture therapy]. PMID- 2519183 TI - Changes of the kallikrein-kinin system in acute phase of hemorrhagic and septic shock. PMID- 2519184 TI - An experimental approach to specific adoptive immunotherapy for malignant brain tumors. AB - With the aid of interleukin 2 (IL-2), two phenotypically different cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) clones were established with target specificity against syngeneic murine malignant brain tumor (a methylcholanthrene-induce ependymoblastoma of C57BL/6 mouse origin, 203-glioma). Furthermore, the cloned CTL lines were characterized in vitro, and their in vivo effectiveness was investigated by intracerebral (i.c.) tumor neutralization assay and adoptive immunotherapy with the clones for i.c. tumor-bearing mice. Each CTL clone retained an IL-2 dependency with a defined functional activity. G-CTLL 1 with a phenotype of Lyt-1-.2.3+ exhibited a target cytotoxicity against 2 kinds of murine glioma cells, syngeneic 203-glioma and allogeneic RSV-M glioma (Schmitt Ruppin rous sarcoma virus-induced malignant astrocytoma). It is noted that G-CTLL 1 cells produced gamma interferon (IFN) by stimulation with glioma antigens. The spontaneous release of gamma IFN paralleled the amounts of exogenous IL-2 added into the cultures, but IL-2 had no synergistic effects on IFN release in the presence of tumor antigens. Furthermore, by adding anti-mouse gamma IFN antibody, the IFN production of G-CTLL 1 cells was inhibited but their lytic potential was hardly reduced in vitro. In contrast, G-CTLL 2 cells expressed a cell surface phenotype of Lyt-1+.2.3+ with more restricted target specificity against only syngeneic 203-glioma cells, although they showed a weaker cytotoxicity than G CTLL 1 cells and no release of gamma IFN. The in vivo therapeutic efficacy using G-CTLL 1 cells was confirmed in both adoptive immunotherapy and tumor neutralization assays.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2519185 TI - [The studies on clinical efficacy of Tomiron in the surgical patients: skin and soft tissue infection]. AB - We studied the clinical efficacy and prophylactic effect of Tomiron (cefteram pivoxil; CFTM-PI), a new oral cephalosporin, in the surgical patients. CFTM-PI was administered at a daily dose of 300 or 600 mg after meals. Infectious diseases in 151 patients consisted of infected atheroma, wound infection, subcutaneous abscess, furuncle, phlegmon, mastitis, lymphangitis, periproctal abscess and biliary tract infection. Fifty patients were administered CFTM-PI to prevent secondary wound infection. The clinical efficacy rate was 75.5% in the treatment of infection and 86.0% in the prophylactic use. The clinical efficacy for skin and soft tissue infection was regarded as excellent in 25, good in 74, fair in 17 and poor in 8 out of 124 cases, with a clinical efficacy rate of 79.8%. The eradication rate in 40 cases of monomicro-bial infection was 97.4%, and in 12 cases of polymicrobial infection it was 72.7%. For biliary tract infection, the clinical efficacy was excellent in 1, good in 5, fair in 1 and poor in 1, with a clinical efficacy rate of 75.0%. Adverse effects were observed in 4 (2.0%) of 201 cases: allergic reaction in 3, and sleepiness in 1. Abnormal laboratory findings were observed in 2 cases, but it is not clear if these were due to this drug. These results indicate that Tomiron is a useful oral antimicrobial agent in the treatment and prophylaxis of surgical infection, mainly skin and soft tissue infection. PMID- 2519187 TI - [Pneumothorax, subcutaneous emphysema and mediastinal emphysema in transnasally intubated patients]. AB - A 41-year-old woman was admitted to our clinic because of an acute subdural hematoma. After an emergency operation her neurological status improved with an increase in the Glasgow Coma Scale score from 6 to 11. On the second postoperative day she developed frequent episodes of clonic convulsive seizures localized in the face and the left upper extremity, and her level of consciousness deteriorated. Next day she was transnasally intubated for respiratory management, but no mechanical ventilation was required. While she was undergoing the CT scanning 5 days after intubation, respiratory arrest and cyanosis developed all of a sudden, and her face and neck became swollen. The chest x-ray revealed a marked subcutaneous emphysema, mediastinal emphysema and bilateral pneumothorax. CT at that time showed a diffuse low density area in the right hemisphere, and a marked midline shift returned. She did not regain consciousness and died 12 days after the incident. At autopsy an ulcer was observed in the wall of the trachea, where the tip or the cuff of the transnasal tracheal tube was supposed to be present. No perforation, however, was there. Case 2: A 75-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital because of SAH. In hospital course she was also transnasally intubated and required no mechanical ventilation. When she was undergoing the CT scanning 3 days after intubation, she developed subcutaneous and mediastinal emphysema similarly to case 1. Although it is reported to be not a rare complication in patients on a mechanical ventilator, subcutaneous emphysema or pneumothorax is extremely rare in those intubated patients with spontaneous respiration. The mechanism of these complications in these cases is briefly discussed. PMID- 2519186 TI - [A case of mediastinal neurilemmoma diagnosed by X-ray guided needle biopsy]. AB - A 70-year-old female was admitted to our hospital complaining of general lassitude. She had been treated for duodenal ulcer. A routine chest X-ray film at admission showed a large tumorous shadow in the right apical field. A computed tomographic scan revealed that it was a posterior mediastinal tumor containing multiple cystic lesions. After medical treatment for duodenal ulcer, a needle biopsy was performed for histological diagnosis. Under local anesthesia a small skin incision was made in the supraclavicular region to avoid parietal pleura and great vessels and a specimen was obtained by a needle guided by X-ray fluoroscopy. The tumor was diagnosed as neurilemmoma histologically. She was discharged because the complaint subsided. Five months later, however, she was again admitted complaining of righ nuchal pain. Thoracotomy was performed under general anesthesia and the tumor growing from the second intercostal nerve was resected. It was 5 x 4 x 5.5 cm in size, encapsulated and consisted of multiple cystic lesions macroscopically. It was confirmed as Antoni B type neurilemmoma histologically. The nuchal pain subsided and she has been doing well for more than three years after discharge. Recently computed tomography (CT) and ultrasonography (US) have been widely used as a guiding device for needle biopsy. In this case, however, CT guided needle biopsy was not applied for fear of possible complications such as pneumothorax. It was also impossible to perform US guided needle biopsy because the tumor was behind the costal and sternal bones and could not be visualized.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2519188 TI - [Etiological consideration of neonatal gastric rupture: assumption of possible association with gastric volvulus and gastroesophageal reflux]. AB - Spontaneous gastric rupture of the newborn infant can be lethal. While the etiology of this problem is unknown, pneumatic rupture of the stomach seems the most logical explanation. The rupture mostly occurs in the anterior wall of the fundus near or on the greater curvature with in the first seven days of life. Three such patients have been managed during the past 5 years. These patients are presented in detail. X-ray films of those 3 patients, of a case of gastroesophageal reflux, and of some reported cases of impending gastric rupture are also presented in an effort to better understand the pathogenesis of this gastric catastrophe. (1) Clinical findings of a double air fluid level in the upper stomach at the upright position found in one case and of the direction of advancement of the nasogastric tube enable us to consider the gastric organoaxial volvulus as an etiological factor. (2) Plain x-ray and barium study films of the case of gastroesophageal reflux and of the reported cases of impending gastric rupture also suggest some degree of gastric volvulus as the cause of corresponding diseases. (3) Fluid accumulation in the fundus is facilitated by gastric organoaxial rotation and the fluid-filled fundus acts as a barrier to prevent eructation. Retention of feeds occurs as a result of air accumulating at the pyloric end. In such situation of a fluid trap syndrome, tremendous intragastric pressures enough to cause rupture may result when vomiting occurs. PMID- 2519189 TI - [The metal post and composite core combination. Clinical study]. PMID- 2519190 TI - [Determination of the disocclusion angle in the incisal articulator plate]. PMID- 2519191 TI - [Method for evaluation of human enamel and dentin erosion "in vitro"]. PMID- 2519192 TI - [Evaluation of bonding resistance of 6 porcelain repair systems]. PMID- 2519193 TI - [Influence of removable partial dentures on the Streptococcus mutans level in saliva]. PMID- 2519194 TI - [Diagnostic wax-up in bone supported implant occlusal rehabilitation planning]. AB - In this article is demonstrated the practical application of the diagnostic wax up in the osteointegrated implant oral rehabilitation. PMID- 2519195 TI - Approaches to the therapy of relapsed acute myeloid leukemia. AB - Managing patients with relapsed acute myeloid leukemia is a major clinical challenge. Although 60-70% of patients with AML achieve complete remission following induction therapy with cytarabine and an anthracycline, at least 70-80% of patients achieving remission eventually relapse. While there are few comparative trials that provide therapeutic guidelines, an initial decision as to treatment can be seen as a choice between reusing previously effective drugs or initiating new classes of drugs. Some of the newer agents which have definite activity include amsacrine, mitoxantrone, diaziquone, idarubicin, homoharringtonine, and carboplatin. Allogeneic, autologous, and syngeneic bone marrow transplantation probably represent the preferred approaches in suitable patients, either in early relapse or after second remission is achieved. PMID- 2519196 TI - HTLV-I infection: high incidence in prostitutes; no upsurge in blood donors. PMID- 2519197 TI - Biostatistics in clinical trials: Part 2. Determining sample sizes for clinical trials. AB - The appropriate sample size for a clinical trial depends on the objectives of the trial. For Phase II trials, the recommended sample size is generally in the neighborhood of 25-40 patients, regardless of the choice of design. Sample sizes for Phase III trials are much more variable, ranging from less than a hundred to thousands of patients. The methodology of sample size determination for Phase III trials depends on the type of endpoint that is to be the primary focus of analysis. Tables of sample sizes for a variety of situations are presented. Use of sequential designs may reduce the required sample size by permitting early termination of trials whose results become definitive prior to completion of patient entry. PMID- 2519198 TI - [An usage of cultured human cell lines in studies of inherited metabolic disease]. AB - Cultured skin fibroblasts and lymphoblastoid lines (established by Epstein-Barr infection) derived from patients have been commonly used in studies on inherited metabolic disorders. It is generally accepted that, on some occasions, valuable information for comprehending the normal transport function and intracellular metabolism in human cells only becomes available through studies using affected cells, and not normal cells. Besides clarification of the mechanism an abnormal function caused by a mutant enzyme, cultured cells provide other useful information (or products), with advanced procedures including cell fusion and gene technology; genetic heterogeneity (gene complementation analysis), correction of mutant genes (transfer of genes or gene products), gene cloning of a specific locus (using chromosomal deletion) and gene expression. The application of "reverse genetics" may permit further access to a complex cellular system. PMID- 2519199 TI - [Secretary sialidase activity and GM3 ganglioside]. AB - The sialidase activities with GM3 ganglioside and sialyllactitol were demonstrated in the conditioned medium of human fibroblasts. pH versus activity profiles of conditioned medium with GM3 as substrate suggested the presence of two sialidases with optimal activities at pH 4.5 and pH 6.5. The GM3 sialidase activity at pH 6.5 was suppressed in the medium of contact-inhibited cells. This sialidase may function in the metabolism of cell surface GM3 since there was a selective loss of labeled sialic acid from GM3 at different times of incubation after pulse-labeling with a radioactive sialic acid precursor ([3H]N-acetyl mannosamine) and a radioactive ceramide precursor ([14C]serine). In addition, a sialidase inhibitor, 2-deoxy-2, 3-dehydro-N-acetyl-neuraminic acid (NeuAc-2-en) resulted in a reversible growth inhibitory effect and the suppression of the sialidase activity in the medium. We have speculated that GM3 hydrolysis on the cell surface by the sialidase may be coordinated with the cell cycle and may be at its maximum during early in the G1 phase. PMID- 2519200 TI - [Property and function of cell surface glycosyltransferases]. AB - Since a galactosyltransferase was first reported to be on the mammalian cell surface in the early 1970s, different classes of glycosyltransferase have been detected on the cell surface of various types of cell by enzymatic or immunological analysis. Although these surface enzymes are identical in catalytic property to those found in Golgi apparatus or endoplasmic reticulum where they are involved in biosynthesis of glycoconjugates, there obtained a monoclonal antibody that distinguishes these enzymes localized differently, and observed some differences in their protein chemistry and in their amounts expressed during cellular differentiation. Due to no availability of sugar donor intercellulary, the surface glycosyltransferases are participating in cellular interactions by recognizing and binding to the appropriate substrates on opposing cell surfaces and extracellular matrices, without showing any enzyme catalysis. PMID- 2519201 TI - [Ganglioside modulation of protein kinase activities: it's implication in cell growth and differentiation]. AB - Recently, some groups including ours found that some ganglioside species could specifically modulate the certain protein kinase activities on the cell surface membrane. We show here two representative cases. One is the ganglioside-dependent modulation of autophosphorylation of EGF or PDGF receptors, by which altered the cell growth. Another is the ganglioside dependent ecto-type protein kinase activities on the cell surface of a human neuroblastoma cell line, GOTO. The latter activities may be closely correlated with the ganglioside GQ1b dependent neuritogenesis. PMID- 2519202 TI - [Bioactive sialoglycosphingolipids (gangliosides): differentiation-inducers as well as differentiation-markers in human hematopoietic cells]. AB - Glycosphingolipids (GSLs), which are amphipathic molecules composed of both hydrophobic and hydrophilic moieties and synthesized by a group of Golgi enzymes, glycosyltransferases, are located almost exclusively on the outer leaflet of plasma membranes of mammalian cells in general, and recently have become known to show an unexpectedly vast molecular heterogeneity. Furthermore, GSLs have been considered to be involved in cellular interactions and cell growth regulations, changing characteristically their composition and biosynthetic pathway during cell development, differentiation and oncogenic transformation although they constitute only a small portion of the cell surface glycoconjugates. In addition, acidic GSLs, gangliosides, have been recently shown to exhibit special receptor functions for exogenous, bioactive factors such as bacterial toxins, hormones and biological response modifiers. We and other investigators have found that human and murine hemopoietic malignant cells show ganglioside-patterns characteristic of their cell lineages and differentiation-stages, serving an differentiation markers for both normal and malignant hemopoietic cells, and further, discovered that particular ganglioside molecules themselves, which specifically increase during differentiation along particular cell lineages induced by a variety of chemical agents, exhibit remarkably potent differentiation-inducing and growth inhibitory activities on human myelogenous leukemia cells. On the basis of these findings, some important biological functions of GSLs, especially gangliosides, will be discussed in special reference to hemopoietic cell differentiation. PMID- 2519203 TI - [Glycosphingolipids affect on the functional properties of human lymphocytes--in relation to HIV-infection of lymphocytes]. AB - Glycosphingolipids, which are functionally present on plasma membrane of mammalian cells, have a variety of functions in immune system such as surface markers of lymphocytes and mediators or modulators of the cells. Interestingly, gangliosides induced selective modulation of CD4, which is not only the subset marker of T-lymphocytes but also the receptor for human immunodeficiency virus. Here, we raised a process of endocytosis as a possible mechanism for the modulation of CD4. We also found that gangliosides inhibited HIV-infection in vitro. PMID- 2519204 TI - [The analysis of gene-regulatory mechanism of ganglioside metabolism by gene transfection]. AB - To investigate the genetic control on ganglioside metabolism, various oncogenes were directly transfected to rat 3Y1 cells, and the subsequent alteration in the ganglioside pattern was analysed. So-called "intranuclear" type oncogenes, the products of which are mainly expressed intranuclearly, ex. adeno E1 and myc, brought about specifically GD3 ganglioside with concomitant decrease in GM3. On the other hand, so-called "extranuclear" type oncogenes, the products of which are expressed extranuclearly (either on the cell membrane or in the cytoplasm), ex. ras and src, brought about SPG gangliosides but no GD3 expression was recognized. This result indicates that intracellular metabolic activities of oncogenes strongly affect the ganglioside metabolism, and that the sensitive points in the pathway of the ganglioside metabolism (synthesis) are not so various but rather restricted. PMID- 2519205 TI - [Novel neutral glycolipid associated with adult T-cell leukemia and its pathological biochemistry]. AB - During attempts to make antibodies cross-reactive with human lymphocytes, we established a monoclonal antibody (VJ-41) from the alloimmunization of mice, that is, B10. A (3R) anti-B10. A (5R). VJ-41 reacted with all cases of freshly isolated adult T-cell leukemia cells (36 cases) but not with cells from other hematological disorders (more than 50 cases). Human T-cell leukemia virus type I healthy carriers also seemed to possess these VJ-41 antigen positive cells. However, in vitro established adult T-cell leukemia cell lines did not show the reactivity with VJ-41. Normal lymphocytes from humans or mice apparently did not carry this antigen, but mitogen activated lymphocytes or some in vitro maintained malignant cell lines of both human and mouse origins showed positive reaction. Having established solid phase radioimmunoassay to detect the VJ-41 antigen in plasma, it was found that healthy human T-cell leukemia virus type I carriers, but not the majority of adult T-cell leukemia patients, predominantly possessed this antigen. Even though immunochemical characterizations of cellular materials were unsuccessful, a certain neutral glycolipid was detected from healthy human T cell leukemia virus type I carrier plasma by using thin-layer chromatography and immunostaining with the VJ-41 antibody. PMID- 2519206 TI - [Functional significance of glycolipid as an important plasma membrane constituent]. AB - Glycolipids are ubiquitous membrane components in various mammalian cells and participate in several functions through membrane. Until now, about 180 glycolipids with different carbohydrate structures have been characterized. Since alteration in glycolipids during cellular proliferation, differentiation and transformation is dramatic in general, several approaches have been attempted to clarify the meaning. Our findings that ganglioside composition in human milk is characteristically changed during the periods of lactation and that N-(O linoleoyl-omega-hydroxylignoceroyl) sphingosyl glucose (ester CMH) in mammalian skin is characteristically synthesized during differentiation of epidermis are the examples to indicate the close association of glycolipids in cellular functions. GM3 ganglioside appeared in the later period of lactation has an activity to suppress cell growth of human breast cancer and ester CMH has an activity to promote the keratinization of epidermal cells, respectively. The observations indicate that glycolipids synthesized during cellular differentiation function as an signal transducer through plasma membrane. Structural bases of glycolipids to give such physiological activities are summarized and discussed in this communication. PMID- 2519207 TI - [Heterotransplantability of human anaplastic thyroid carcinoma line (HOTHC) in nude mice, and biological properties of the heterograft]. AB - The heterotransplantability of HOTHC line (human anaplastic thyroid carcinoma) into the subcutis of BALB/c nude mice and the biological properties of grafts were discussed. (1) The HOTHC line showed high transplantability, and 1 x 10(4) cells produced anaplastic carcinoma (giant cell type) containing the colloid-like substance. (2) The grafted tumors grew rapidly and the mice were dead within 2 months after transplantation. (3) The number of leukocytes (neutrophils) of mouse peripheral blood increased as the tumor size increased, and the leukocyte count returned to a normal value after removal of the tumor. (4) The conditioned media of HOTHC line formed colonies of granulocytes (neutrophils) on soft agar. These phenomena revealed that HOTHC is a granulocyte-colony stimulating factor producing line. (5) The conditioned media of HOTHC line showed promoting-effect on neovascularization on the chorioallantoic membrane. PMID- 2519208 TI - [Effects of high temperatures on chromosomes of normal and transformed human cells]. AB - The effects of the high temperature on the chromosome of normal and transformed human cells were examined using a temperature gradient incubator (T.G.I., Model TN-212) in culture. The cell nucleus were damaged, specifically fragmentation occurred under the hyperthermic treatments. The diploid cells were passaged at three different temperature conditions ranging from 39.0-41.5 degrees C. It was found that the polyploid cells (predominantly tetraploid) were increased in these conditions compared with the cells cultured at 37 degrees C. We observed the chromosomal aberrations (break, stickiness, fragmentation, etc.) in the cells treated with high temperature for the various periods of time. The results indicated that the transformed cells were more high-temperature sensitive than the normal cells with respect to the chromosomal aberrations. The trend was seen in this experiment, in which the chromatid breaks of HAIN-55 and MKN-1 cell strains occurred more on the large chromosomes such as the ones in group A, B and C under the hyperthermic treatments. PMID- 2519209 TI - Hormones and breast cancer in vitro. AB - Breast cancer is characterized by hormonal regulation. The current article reviews the role of estrogen and polypeptide growth factors in control of proliferation and basement membrane invasion of breast cancer cells in vitro. The role of antiestrogens to regulate proliferation, invasion, and growth factor secretion is further highlighted. Finally, the use of in vitro cultures of breast cancer cells to model steps in the malignant progression of the disease is emphasized. The availability of hormone dependent and independent breast cancer cell lines should allow screening for better antiestrogens, antimetastatic drugs, and antagonists of local action of growth factors. PMID- 2519210 TI - [Characterization and calcitonin secretion of a human well differentiated C-cell tumor cell line]. AB - Useful cell lines actively producing hormone (s) have been rare, especially those of human origin. A C-cell tumor human cell line abundantly producing calcitonin and related hormones, TT-cell, has proved remarkably useful for the study of endocrine tumors as their representative model. We proved intracellular presence of translation and transcript products of calcitonin and calcitonin gene related peptide gene by immunostain, radioimmunoassay, immunoelectron microscopy, Northern blot and in situ hybridization. We also demonstrated remarkably enhanced secretion of the hormones and chromogranins by the stimulation of protein kinase activators such as phorbol ester, forskolin, and calcium-ionophore. PMID- 2519211 TI - [Steroid hormone responsive cells in serum-free culture--analyses of hormone mediated gene expression and cell growth]. AB - Steroid hormone-responsive cell lines were clones from mouse mammary cancer (Shionogi Carcinoma 115) and Leydig cell tumor. SC-3 and SC-4 cells from Shionogi Carcinoma were androgen-responsive and -unresponsive in a serum-free medium, respectively. SC-3 cells secreted FGF-like growth factor as well as 24 K glycoprotein in response to androgen stimuli. B-1 and B-1F cells from mouse Leydig cell tumor were growth-stimulated in a serum-free medium by estrogen, androgen or retinoic acid. Transfection of ERE-TK-CAT gene into B-1F cells revealed that both estrogen and retinoic acid activated the CAT activity. In addition, the presence of corresponding receptors for steroid hormones or retinoic acid was demonstrated by hormone binding assays and/or Northern blot analysis. Thus, these serum-free culture systems seem to be very useful for analysing hormone action mechanisms in vitro. PMID- 2519212 TI - [Tissue culture and estrogen, to clarify the roles of estrone sulfate]. AB - Estrone sulfate (E1-S) has been shown to be quantitatively the most important estrogen in peripheral blood. But, the physiological and/or pathological role of E1-S is not yet clarified. At present, we tried to clarify it using tissue cultures. In tissue cultures of human endometrium, secretory endometrium showed higher activity of estrone sulfatase (E1----E1-S) than proliferative endometrium. Progesterone added in the medium induced an increase of estrone sulfotransferase in the proliferative endometrium. The results suggest a reducing effect of estrogen by progesterone in secretory endometrium in physiological conditions. Estrogen dependent malignant tumors (breast cancer, endometrial cancer) have high estrone sulfatase. It converts E1-S to E1 (----E2) which are abundant in these tumors. Ishikawa cell line increased estrone sulfotransferase activity with progesterone, somewhat like the physiological conditions. From out study in vivo, there is a possibility of some ameliorative effects of E1-S on the central nervous system of patients with senile dementia (Alzheimer's type). Effects of E1 S on central nerves were investigated using tissue cultures. PMID- 2519213 TI - [Roles of epidermal growth factor (EGF) in the growth and differentiation of human endometrium]. AB - Endometrial tissues undergo drastic changes during menstrual cycle. After menstruation, they proliferate and differentiate into cells with secretory activity in the preparation for egg implantation. Although sex steroids play an important role in the development of endometrial tissues, sequential events occurring in the endometrium can not be fully explained by the direct actions of sex steroids. In this study, we offer evidences that EGF is released from endometrial cells and they possess the receptor for EGF. These findings prompted us to explore the biological roles of EGF in endometrial tissues. Here we clearly demonstrate that EGF is involved in the proliferation of endometrial cells. Moreover, EGF is found to enhance both glycogenesis and glycogenolysis, thus increasing the supply of glucose for blastocysts. We further set forth that EGF augments the capacity of progestin receptor and release of prostaglandins in endometrial cells. In summary, this study emphasizes that EGF may participate in the development of human endometrial tissues in concert with sex steroids, thus contributing to the acquisition of receptivity of eggs in the endometrium. PMID- 2519214 TI - [Responsiveness and mechanisms of action of steroid hormones in human endometrial adenocarcinoma cells]. AB - The responsiveness and action mechanisms of steroid hormones and epidermal growth factor on human endometrial carcinoma cells are analyzed by using in vitro culture system. 1) The Ishikawa cells, derived from a well differentiated endometrial adenocarcinoma and possess ER and PR, are shown to respond to estrogens by increasing a variety of parameters, viz cell proliferation, PR levels, ALP and DNA polymerase activities. 2) ER and PR of those cells are localized in the nuclei by immunocytochemical staining using the monoclonal antibodies against to ER and PR, confirming the correctness of Gorski and Greene's one step theory involving the action mechanisms of steroid hormones. 3) Progestins reduced the ER level and stimulate E2DH activities and glycogen content, which are completely abolished by anti-progestin (RU486), suggesting that PR of those cells should be functional. 4) These responses to steroid hormones of Ishikawa cells are synergistically enhanced or appeared earlier by addition of EGF. 5) The main metabolite of E2 incubated with Ishikawa cells is E2 3-sulfate instead of E1, indicate that the higher estrogenic status may be persisted in endometrial cancer tissues. PMID- 2519215 TI - [Establishment and characterization of a human malignant schwannoma cell line (HKMS)]. AB - The malignant schwannoma cell line (HKMS) was established from the subcutaneous tumor of Axilla region of a 48-year-old Japanese woman. The HKMS line has the following biological properties. 1. The HKMS cells were spindle in shape and showed neoplastic and pleomorphic features. The monolayer sheet of HKMS cells showed the resemble cell-arrangement with that of the original tumor tissue. 2. The cells showed a stable growth and the serial passages were successively carried out 150 times within 3 years. Their population doubling time is about 40 hours. 3. The chromosome number varied widely, and the modal number was stable at the 78-80. The marker chromosomes were present. 4. The cells were transplanted into the subcutis of nude mice and produced the malignant schwannoma. PMID- 2519216 TI - [Effect of active oxygen on cytoplasmic Ca2+ sequestration mechanism]. AB - Effects of the active oxygen on the extrusion mechanism of once-increased cytoplasmic Ca2+, which causes various physiological phenomena, were investigated using different kinds of culture cells. First we found that, in response to stimulation with vitamin K (VK), various culture cells showed a decrease in cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentration. On the presumption that this phenomenon might be related to the oxidizing action of VK, we performed the same experiments using oxidizing agents such as H2O2 or KO2. They also showed a decrease in cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentration. Furthermore, they suppressed the increase of cytoplasmic Ca2+ by vasopressin. It would be inferred from these results that the active oxygen may act upon some site of the cellular signal transduction system of cell membrane to lower the cytoplasmic Ca2+ level. PMID- 2519217 TI - [A study of MTT-hybrid assay using human bone and soft tissue tumor cells]. AB - We investigated a new chemosensitivity test, MTT-hybrid assay, which was a hybrid of MTT colorimetric assay and double-layered soft agar colony assay, using human bone and soft tissue tumor cells. MTT formazan crystals produced by viable cells in the soft agar medium were solubilized by SDS at 60 degrees C. The absorbance (560 nm) is directly proportional to the cell number over a wide range. The absorbance increased in proportion to colonial growth of osteosarcoma cells, while it decreased in a human diploid cell strain in a few days. Drug sensitivity of tumor cells is supposed to be assessed without contaminating normal cells by MTT-hybrid assay in primary tumor samples. Good correlation of IC50 was observed between MTT-hybrid assay and colony assay. The MTT-hybrid assay shows potential value as a rapid predictive test for chemotherapeutic agents in an individual patient. PMID- 2519218 TI - [Boron neutron capture therapy using 10B entrapped anti-CEA immunoliposome]. AB - A new murine monoclonal antibody (2C-8) was prepared by immunizing mice ip with CEA producing human pancreatic cancer cell line, AsPC-1.SDS-PAGE and Western blot analysis showed that 2C-8 monoclonal antibody recognized CEA and NCA. This anti CEA monoclonal antibody was conjugated with large multilamellar liposomes incorporated 10B compound (Cs2 10B12H11SH). This immunoliposomes applicated to boron neutron capture therapy. AsPC-1 cells were incubated with the 10B-Lip MoAb(CEA) for 8 hours. After the irradiation with thermal neutron (1 x 10(11)-1 x 10(13) n/cm2), boronated AsPC-1 cells were showed decreasing uptake of 3H-TdR compared with control group. The numbers of 10B atoms in liposomes bound to an antibody were in proportion to the dose of 10B compounds added and maximum number of 10B atoms was approximatory 1.2 x 10(4)/Ab. These data indicated that the immunoliposomes could deliver highly amount of 10B atoms to the tumor cells and exert cytotoxic effect by thermal neutron. BNCT with immunoliposome may be useful to the non resectable malignant tumors in clinical application. PMID- 2519219 TI - [Establishment and characterization of five human myeloma cell lines]. AB - Since 1980 five human myeloma cell lines, KMM-1, KMS-5, KMS-11, KMS-12-PE and KMS 12-BM, have been established in Kawasaki Medical School. Histologically, all the cell lines resembled plasma cells and were EBNA negative. KMM-1, KMS-11, KMS-12 PE and KMS-12-BM reacted with PCA-1, while KMM-1, KMS-12-PE and KMS-12-BM with CD38. KMM-1 and KMS-11 secreted immunoglobulins into culture medium. Karyologically, all the cell lines were abnormal. Only KMS-5 was tumorigenic when transplanted subcutaneously into nude mice. PMID- 2519220 TI - [The effect of blood transfusion on tumor growth and metastasis formation--a nude mouse--human cancer cell model]. PMID- 2519222 TI - Studies on the techniques of topical application with fluoride gel. 2. Standardization on the amounts of gel applied. AB - In the previous report, the results of an experiment for utilization of the practically available tray in our effort to introduce a new technique for the application of fluoride gel products to patients were described. Through the experiment, it was found that the groove in the sponge tray is too shallow for the application of gel, and the need for standardization of the proper amount of fluoride gel for application was felt. In the present study, an experiment using an improved version of a ready-made sponge tray was conducted. Simultaneously, the standardization of the amount of gel for application using cotton pellets, sponge tray and custom-fitted tray was attempted with good results. However, problems still remain concerning the way of accommodating the standardized amount of gel in a tray, and how to apply the gel intraorally using the cotton pellets. PMID- 2519221 TI - Effects of tea catechins on cholesterol absorption with exogenously hypercholesterolemic rat (ExHC-Ta). PMID- 2519224 TI - Loss of cancer suppressors, a driving force in carcinogenesis. PMID- 2519223 TI - Tooth mobility measurement techniques using ECM impact hammer method. PMID- 2519225 TI - Sequence selectivity in the reaction of optically active hydrocarbon dihydrodiol epoxides with rat H-ras DNA. PMID- 2519226 TI - Selective covalent binding of the active sulfate ester of the carcinogen 5 (hydroxymethyl)chrysene to the adenine residue of calf thymus DNA. AB - 5-(Hydroxymethyl)chrysene (5-HCR) sulfate, an active metabolite of the carcinogen 5-HCR, bound significantly in a covalent manner to the purine bases of calf thymus DNA through its 5-methylene carbon with loss of a sulfate anion when incubated at pH 7.4 and 37 degrees C. From the DNA were isolated two purine base adducts by high-pressure liquid chromatography, and they were identified as N6 [(chrysen-5-yl)methyl]adenine and N2-[(chrysen-5-yl)methyl]guanine with the corresponding synthetic specimens. The purine base adducts, appearing in the ratio 1 to 27 for guanine to adenine in the chromatogram, accounted for about 60% of the total covalent binding of 5-HCR sulfate to the DNA. 5-HCR sulfate also reacted specifically with the exocyclic amino groups of the purine bases of 2' deoxyadenosine 5'-phosphate and 2'-deoxyguanosine 5'-phosphate at much lower rates than did with those of calf thymus DNA. Denaturing the DNA by heating followed by rapid cooling, covalent binding of 5-HCR sulfate to it markedly decreased with the increasing ratio of N2-guanine to N6-adenine adducts (1:3.6). These results strongly suggest that secondary structure of DNA has an influence on the covalent binding of 5-HCR sulfate and that intercalation of the sulfate ester into DNA base pairs plays an important role in its preferential binding to N6 of the adenine residue of native DNA. PMID- 2519227 TI - Structural characterization of adducts formed in the reaction of 2,3-epoxy-4 hydroxynonanal with deoxyguanosine. AB - Six adducts were isolated by reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography from the reaction of deoxyguanosine at 50 degrees C in pH 7.0 buffer with the epoxide of trans-4-hydroxy-2-nonenal, a major alpha,beta-unsaturated aldehyde from lipid peroxidation. These adducts were designated as adducts 1-6. Structures of these adducts were fully characterized by spectroscopic methods such as UV, proton NMR, MS, and CD and by chemical reactions. Adduct 1 was previously identified as 1,N2-ethenodeoxyguanosine. Adducts 2, 3, 5, and 6 are four diastereomeric 1,N2-ethanodeoxyguanosine derivatives possessing two five-membered fused rings at the 1- and N2-positions of guanine. The systematic name of these adducts is 3-(2-deoxy-beta-D-erythropentofuranosyl)-3,5,5a,7,8,8a-hexahydro-8 hydroxy-7- pentyl-10H-furo[2',3':4,5]imidazo[1,2-a]-purin-10-one. Acid hydrolysis of adducts 5 and 6 yielded the corresponding guanine products which were identical in all respects except having opposite CD. Similar results were obtained with adducts 2 and 3, suggesting they are two pairs of enantiomers. The stereochemical characteristics of these adducts were elucidated. Adduct 4 was characterized by spectroscopic methods and chemical reactions as 3-(2-deoxy-beta D-erythro-pentofuranosyl)-5,9-dihydro-7-(1,2- dihydroxyheptyl)-9H-imidazo[1,2 a]purin-9-one, a 1,N2-ethenodeoxyguanosine derivative. Upon mild base treatment, adducts 2, 3, 5, and 6 were readily converted to adduct 1. The mechanisms for the formation of these adducts and the conversion of adducts 2, 3, 5, and 6 to adduct 1 are discussed. PMID- 2519229 TI - Enantiotopic differentiation during the biotransformation of valproic acid to the hepatotoxic olefin 2-n-propyl-4-pentenoic acid. AB - The enantiomers of 2-[( 3-13C]-n-propyl)pentanoic acid [(R)- and (S)-[13C]VPA] were employed as metabolic probes to investigate stereochemical aspects of the biotransformation of valproic acid (VPA) to 2-n-propyl-4-pentenoic acid (delta 4 VPA), a hepatotoxic metabolite of VPA. When incubated with hepatocytes freshly isolated from untreated male rats, each labeled substrate (initial concentration 1.0 mM) underwent metabolism to [13C]-delta 4-VPA, the formation of which was time-dependent and occurred at a rate of ca. 20 ng/(10(6) cells.4-h incubation). Analysis of this unsaturated metabolite by GC-MS techniques revealed that, following incubation of (R)-[13C]VPA, desaturation had taken place preferentially (by a factor of approximately 4) on the labeled propyl group (i.e., on the R side chain). Parallel incubations with (S)-[13C]VPA supported this conclusion, in that metabolism of this isotopic variant of VPA led to a terminal olefin that also was predominantly (83 +/- 2%) of R configuration (in this case oxidized selectively on the unlabeled side chain). Hence, biotransformation of VPA to delta 4-VPA in rat hepatocytes occurs with marked enantiotopic differentiation, favoring production of the R enantiomer of this chiral metabolite. When rats were pretreated with phenobarbital (80 mg kg-1 day-1 ip for 3 days) prior to isolation of hepatocytes, the overall rate of metabolism of VPA to delta 4-VPA over the 4-h incubation period increased approximately 3-fold, while the degree of product enantioselectivity was unchanged.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2519228 TI - Fluorescence line narrowing spectrometric analysis of benzo[a]pyrene-DNA adducts formed by one-electron oxidation. AB - Fluorescence line narrowing (FLN) was demonstrated for five benzo[a]pyrene (BP) nucleoside adducts synthesized by one-electron oxidation of BP in the presence of guanosine, deoxyguanosine, and deoxyadenosine. The standard FLN spectra were used to prove that a major depurination adduct from the binding of BP to DNA in rat liver nuclei is 7-(benzo[a]pyren-6-yl)guanine (N7Gua). The structural characterization was performed with only 20 pg of the adduct. Metabolic activation of BP by one-electron oxidation in the horseradish peroxidase catalyzed reaction of BP with DNA (in vitro) was also investigated. The major adduct identified was 8-(benzo[a]pyren-6-yl)guanine (C8Gua). PMID- 2519230 TI - Characterization of glutathione conjugates of reactive metabolites of 3' hydroxyacetanilide, a nonhepatotoxic positional isomer of acetaminophen. AB - 3'-Hydroxyacetanilide (AMAP) is a nonhepatotoxic regioisomer of acetaminophen (APAP) that nonetheless does form reactive metabolites which bind to hepatic proteins. Because differences in the nature of reactive metabolites formed from AMAP and APAP may explain differences in their propensity to cause hepatotoxicity, characterization of the reactive metabolites of AMAP was undertaken. The naturally occurring sulfhydryl-containing tripeptide glutathione (GSH) was used to trap the reactive metabolites. Four mono-GSH conjugates and one di-GSH conjugate of oxidative AMAP metabolites were characterized by 1H NMR and soft ionization (LSIMS or FAB) mass spectral techniques, as well as by comparison of liquid chromatographic and spectral characteristics with synthetic standards. Two isomeric mono-GSH conjugates of 2-acetamidohydroquinone (2-AcHQ) are formed as well as a bis-GSH conjugate. A mono-GSH conjugate of 3',4' dihydroxyacetanilide (3-OH-APAP) also was formed. Thus, these GSH conjugates most likely arise by reaction of GSH with 2-acetamido-p-benzoquinone (2-APBQ) and 4 acetamido-o-benzoquinone (4-AOBQ), respectively, as oxidation products of the known AMAP metabolites 2-AcHQ and 3-OH-APAP. Finally, a GSH conjugate of 3' methoxy-4'-hydroxy-acetanilide (3-OMe-APAP) was detected in bile of mice administered AMAP. This conjugate probably arises by oxidation of 3-OMe-APAP, another known metabolite of AMAP. The presumed oxidation product, N-acetyl-3 methoxy-p-benzoquinone imine (MAPQI), was synthesized and found to react with GSH to give the same GSH conjugate as that detected in bile and in incubations of 3 OMe-APAP with mouse liver microsomes plus GSH.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2519231 TI - Metabolism of the nephrotoxin dichloroacetylene by glutathione conjugation. AB - Dichloroacetylene (DCA) is a potent nephrotoxin and nephrocarcinogen in rodents. The activation reactions responsible for this organ-specific toxicity are not known. We now report the identification of S-(1,2-dichlorovinyl)glutathione (DCVG) as a product of the glutathione (GSH) dependent metabolism of DCA in vitro and the identification of N-acetyl-S-(1,2-dichlorovinyl)-L-cysteine (N-Ac-DCVC) as a urinary metabolite of DCA in rats. Formation of DCVG from DCA, used as 1:1 complex with diethyl ether, in male rat liver and kidney subcellular fractions was dependent on time, native protein, and the presence of GSH. Initial reaction rates at 23 degrees C were determined as 2923 nmol/(min.mg) for liver and 2838 nmol/(min.mg) for kidney microsomes. With cytosol, DCVG formation rates were 705 nmol/(min.mg) (liver cytosol) and 129 nmol/(min.mg) (kidney cytosol). With liver microsomes, a KM of 7.5 mM and a Vmax of 5464 nmol/(min.mg) for GSH were obtained. The product, DCVG, was definitively identified by 1H NMR spectrometry (400 MHz), mass spectrometry, and UV spectroscopy. N-Ac-DCVC was identified as a urinary metabolite from rats by GC/MS after esterification. Urine (collected for 24 h) from male rats exposed to 36 +/- 5 ppm DCA (100 mumol of DCA introduced into the exposure system) for 1 h contained 10.7 mumol of N-Ac-DCVC as determined by HPLC analysis. Formation of DCVG, renal processing to S-(1,2-dichlorovinyl)-L cysteine, and cleavage of this cysteine S-conjugate by cysteine S-conjugate beta lyase in the kidney with formation of reactive and mutagenic intermediates may account for DCA nephrotoxicity and nephrocarcinogenicity.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2519232 TI - Isotopic sensitivity in the microsomal oxidation of the dihydropyridine calcium entry blocker nifedipine. AB - The primary deuterium isotope effect on Vm for the microsomal oxidation of the dihydropyridine calcium entry blocker nifedipine [4-(2-nitrophenyl)-2,6-dimethyl 3,5- bis(methoxycarbonyl)-1,4-dihydropyridine] has been measured. The magnitude of the kinetic isotope effect, 6.7, suggests that the rate-limiting step in the mechanism of microsomal oxidation of nifedipine involves the loss of a hydrogen atom rather than nitrogen oxidation. Thus the microsomal oxidation of nifedipine is mechanistically different from that of other 1,4-dihydropyridines. PMID- 2519234 TI - [Tumor markers used in oncology]. AB - The most useful markers, include human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), alpha-feto protein (AFP), and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA). The major utility of those would be in monitoring patients with choriocarcinoma, the germ cell tumors, and gastrointestinal neoplasm. Tumors Markers have not been so successful in the early detection of neoplasm in the general population. Possible explanation will be the lack of specificity for tumors as opposed to normal tissue. Monoclonal antibodies to human tumors cell can be prepared using hybridization techniques. These antibodies are homogenoous, recognize specific antigenic determinants with high affinities, and can be mass produced. Monoclonal antibodies detect qualitative and quantitative differences in the antigenic composition of normal and malignant cells. Have important clinical application in the detection and early diagnosis of cancer, in accurate tumor staging, and in therapy. PMID- 2519233 TI - A theoretical study on the metabolic activation of paracetamol by cytochrome P 450: indications for a uniform oxidation mechanism. AB - The cytochrome P-450 mediated activation of paracetamol (PAR) to the reactive electrophilic intermediate N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone imine (NAPQI) has been studied by use of SV 6-31G ab initio energy calculations and spin distributions. A simplified model for cytochrome P-450 has been used by substituting the proposed biologically active ferric-oxene state of cytochrome P-450 by a singlet oxygen atom. The results indicate that an initial hydrogen abstraction from the phenolic hydroxyl group is favored by 30.1 kcal/mol over an initial hydrogen abstraction from the acetylamino nitrogen atom. Metabolic activation of PAR via primary formation of a phenoxy radical seems the most likely mechanism. The calculated ab initio spin densities indicate that the radical formed by hydrogen abstraction from the phenolic hydroxyl group stays predominantly localized at the phenolic oxygen. A second hydrogen abstraction from the acetylamino nitrogen atom, giving rise to the reactive intermediate NAPQI, is then favored in terms of energy differences. The unpaired electron of the phenoxy radical was found to delocalize only to a small extent toward the carbon atoms at the ortho and para positions relative to the hydroxyl-containing ring carbon, but nevertheless a recombination reaction between a hydroxyl radical and these radicalized carbon atoms at the ortho or para positions could explain the formation of the minor metabolites 3 hydroxy-PAR and p-benzoquinone plus acetamide. PMID- 2519236 TI - [Prevalence of serologic markers of hepatitis B among health and administrative staff at a general hospital of the Peruvian jungle]. AB - A seroepidemiological assessment for Hepatitis B was performed in 199 workers, apparently healthy, of Hospital de Apoyo Iquitos of them were health care workers (representing 29.96% of health workers) and 42 were administrative personnel (22.82% of hospital's administrative personnel). We evaluated the HBsAg and anti HBc IgG total by the microelisa technique. The total prevalence of HBsAg carriers was 3.36% and 20.1% of the anti-HBc; in the health group the 3.89% had HBsAg and the 16.88% anti-HBc, while the administrative group presented 2.38% of HBsAg and 26.19% the anti-HBc. There was no significative statistical difference between both groups. There was not either in the presence of the different studied epidemiological variables. We presume that it can exist a common epidemilogical factor which would conditioned a similarity of risk for infection in the health personnel as well the administrative personnel and even in the general population. If this find in other Amazon cities is confirmed, we could conclude that this represents a epidemilogical characteristic of the intermediate endemicity urban areas. PMID- 2519235 TI - [Primary sclerosing cholangitis associated with Sjogren's syndrome, retroperitoneal fibrosis and chronic pancreatitis. Report of a case]. AB - Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC) is an unusual chronic, cholestatic disease of unknown etiology, more frequently seen in young adults in close relationship with Chronic Ulcerative Colitis. We report the case of a 30 year old woman, coming from the peruvian amazon with PSC associated with Sjogren Syndrome, Chronic Pancreatitis and Retroperitoneal Fibrosis, without colonic involvement. She was treated with external biliary drainage and controlled for 12 months. In this paper, clinical, biochemical, radiological, histological and therapeutic features are reviewed as well as its possible immunologie autoimmune origin. PMID- 2519237 TI - [Megaloblastic anemia and gastrointestinal manifestations in Lima. The tip of the iceberg?]. AB - The records of the last three years from the Hematology service are reviewed and twenty patients (6.23%) fulfilling the inclusion criteria were chosen out of a total of 316. RESULTS: pallor and malaise 100%, change in bowel movements 75%, nausea, vomiting and hemorrhage 40%, jaundice 25%, nausea aroused by food 20%, infection 10%. Severe hyporegenerative anemia 100%, thrombocytopenia 75%, pancytopenia 60%. We found as associated conditions: gynecological and obstetric history 25%, enteric and peritoneal tuberculosis 15%, and without an apparent cause (primary) 40%. Levels of vitamin B12 and folic acid were measured in eleven patients and the finding were: B12 deficiency in six (54.5%), folic acid deficiency in three (27.2%) and deficiency of both in two (18.1%). With the exception of one patient who died from sepsis, all the other patients had a favorable outcome with vitamin treatment. We found folic acid deficiency associated with ferropenia mainly in those patients with obstetric history; the combined deficit in those patients with an associated pathological process, and B12 deficiency in the group without any apparent cause. From the available national information and our observations we can conclude that we are facing an outbreak of megaloblastic anemia that frequently goes on with gastrointestinal manifestations and for which the cause has not been elucidated. PMID- 2519238 TI - [Combined chemotherapy with the FEM protocol in advanced gastric cancer]. AB - Thirty one patients with diagnosis of Gastric Cancer were admitted in this study. Median age was 71 years (range 24-82). Twenty two were male. No one had previous chemotherapy. Functional capacity was 0-1 in 26/31 (60.6%). More common symptoms were: loss of weight 21/31 (75.1%) and abdominal pain in 13/31 (40.3%). Ten patients were Borrmann III and nine Borrmann IV. Twenty one had surgery: 12 palliative gastrectomy and 9 exploratory laparatomy. Twenty three cases were adenocarcinoma and 8 undifferentiated carcinoma. FEM regimen was administered (5 Fluoruracil 600 mg/m2/day 1 and 8, Epidoxorubicin 30 mg/m2/day 1 and Mitomycin 10 mg/m2/day 1). Ten of 24 patients (41.7%) achieved partial remission with a median survival of 10.5 months. Three patients achieved subjective response with a median survival of 6 months. Median survival for the non response was 3 months (range 2-7 months). Survival difference between responders and no responders was statistically significant. Survival among the adjuvent group was 5.7 months (range 2-16 months). One out of three patients survived without evidence of disease at the end of this study. Twenty three patients died and 5 were lost to follow up. Alopecia was the most common secondary effect in 74%, nausea and vomiting in 60% and leukopenia below 3000 x mm3 in 54%. Cardiotoxicity was not documented in any case. PMID- 2519239 TI - [Serologic markers of viral hepatitis B in drug addicted++ patients at the Hermilio Valdizan Hospital]. AB - A study was done in 36 drug addict patients at the H. Valdizan Hospital We studied serological markers for Hepatitis B: HBsAg Anti-HBc, and anti-HIV was also made. They were not IV abusers. Five patients (13.8%) were positive for HBsAg and 6 (16.6%) for anti-HBc. Anti-HIV was negative in all the cases, that obtained from our results compared with the general adult population from peruvian coast are high. In relation to the information obtained, the transmission route would be diverse, considering an important one the sexual route. 44 drug addicts were seen in 1988 at this Hospital, 36 cases could be a representative number, although we think we need to extend this study to a bigger population to establish the actual prevalence of this infection among these particular patients. This information could help to advice preventive and control health measures. PMID- 2519240 TI - [Chronic gastritis and intestinal metaplasia]. AB - Much has been written about gastric mucosae behavior and the occurrence of intestinal metaplasia. The aim of this paper is to learn something more about these matters in peruvian population. We selected 100 patients with endoscopically no localized lesions between 30 to 70 years of age. We took 8 samples of gastric mucosae in each patient which were carefully examined for the presence of inflammatory changes, settle the line type between antral and fundic mucosae and the frequency of intestinal metaplasia finding. The results showed disagreement between endoscopic and histological findings, so we conclude it is better to diagnose chronic gastritis on the basis of histological parameters. The line between antral and fundic mucosae was of the close type one found in 87% of all cases and it advanced proximally with increasing age. Intestinal metaplasia was present in 46% of the whole number of patients and the rate of occurrence increased in 50% over 50 years age. These findings will let us compare future investigations of gastric mucosae behavior with localized benign or malign lesions. PMID- 2519241 TI - [Digestive disorders in the adult population of Lima]. AB - Functional bowel disorders are frequent in the general population. In order to determine the prevalence, determinant factors and attitudes of the adult and healthy individuals with respect of the digestive symptoms, a prospective and transversal survey was carried out among the population of Lima city between january and april of 1989. Inclusion criteria were: apparently healthy, age between 18 and 60 yr, no analphabet; and the exclusion criteria were: having been diagnosed of systemic and for digestive organic disease, and regular ingestion of drugs. 911 individuals were interviewed. After exclusion of 51,860 persons were considered for the study, 427 males and 433 females; 428 from the medium socioeconomic level and 432 from the lower. A prevalence of 85.9% of normal individual with digestive symptoms was found, with a higher frequency in females and the low socioeconomic level (p less than 0.001). Vomit, early gastric fullness, non epigastric abdominal pain, constipation and proctalgia were significantly related to female sex and bad taste, regurgitation, early gastric fullness, dyspepsia to some foods, constipation and diarrhea were related to low socioeconomic level. Dysuria, as associated symptom, was frequent in females (p less than 0.001) and dysuria and lumbalgia in the low socioeconomic level (p less than 0.001 and p less than 0.001 respectively). 18.1% of the individuals asked for medical consultation, 14.9% used medical prescriptions, 19.4% had automedication and 41.95 used folk remedies.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2519242 TI - [Oral rehydration immediately after appendectomy]. AB - An experimental study of 20 patients with appendicitis was carried out in order to know if after the appendectomy they tolerate the hidratation with rehidratant salts by mouth in place of endovenous hydratation. The oral hydratation was indicated in all the cases immediately after the operation and only was one failure (5%). In the 95% the oral hydratation was tolerated, 45% without gastric symptoms, 35% with mild gastric symptoms and in 15% with moderate gastric symptoms. The association of gentamycin-metronidazol administered by intramuscular and oral way respectively was used in 100% of the patients. In 80% as profilaxis and in 20% as treatment. Two cases had complication as sepsis of the wound one of the profilactic group (5.9%) and another of the treatment group. In conclusion the oral hydratation with rehydrating salts were tolerated for the patients immediately after the appendectomy. PMID- 2519243 TI - [Villous adenoma: clinical, endoscopic and histopathologic aspects]. AB - A ten years retrospective study of villous adenomas at the Arzobispo Loayza Hospital was carried out. 24 patients with this problem were found, the mean age was 62 years, clinical symptoms were: rectal bleeding (87.5%), mucus diarrhea (58.2%) and abdominal pain (37.5%). According to the Histopathologic study, there were 14 (58%) adenomas with carcinoma and the existence of carcinoma was proportional to the adenoma's size, we didn't find carcinoma in the adenomas smaller than 2 cm. The endoscopy was useful to detect invasive carcinoma in the 88% of cases meanwhile the endoscopic biopsy detected only 27% of cases. The endoscopic polipectomy was suitable when the adenomas were smaller than 3 cm. PMID- 2519244 TI - [Severe strongyloidiasis with pseudotumor pancreatic involvement. Clinical case]. AB - We report the first clinical case of a patient with a severe hyper infestation due to Strongyloides stercoralis who developed a pancreatic pseudotumoral complication. Its clinical aspects, auxiliary exams, therapeutic schedule, evolution and the roentgenographic, ultrasound and TAC images are shown in this paper. PMID- 2519245 TI - [Lectin-binding sites in the growing end of rat incisors]. AB - Tooth germs of rat incisors were examined by lectin-histochemistry in the portion from the apical end to enamel forming stage. Tissue sections were prepared from paraformaldehyde-fixed and paraffin-embedded tissues with or without EDTA decalcification. They were stained with fluorescein-isothiocyanate-labeled (F- for short) lectins and observed by a fluorescent microscope. The boundary between inner enamel epithelia and dental papilla cells was stained with F-Con A, F-MPA and F-PNA. The boundary between the epithelia and dentin was stained with F-Con A and F-MPA. Stratum intermedium cells were stained with F-Con A, F-MPA and F-PNA, and were different in the time when they began to be stained with each lectin during their development. Distal cytoplasm of secretory ameloblasts and odontoblasts were stained with F-MPA and F-Con A, respectively. The staining with these lecting became stronger gradually from the apical to the incisal side. These results suggest that F-MPA and F-Con A are useful as a marker indicating the time when enamel and dentin begins to form, respectively. Distal cytoplasm of secretory ameloblasts was also stained with F-Con A and F-PNA. The odontoblastic layer was stained only with F-Con A, but the dental papilla was stained with F Con A, F-MPA, and F-PNA. Stellate reticulum and outer enamel epithelia were stained with F-Con A and F-MPA. The comparison of the results from decalcified and non-decalcified tissues showed that the EDTA-decalcification scarcely affected these lectin bindings. PMID- 2519246 TI - Characterization of bacterial deposits formed in vivo on hydrogen-ion-sensitive field-effect transistor electrodes and enamel surfaces. AB - In order to clarify the bacteriological similarities of bacterial deposits formed on transistor pH electrodes (pH-ISFET) and enamel surfaces in vivo, bacteria were allowed to accumulate on indwelling electrodes in four human mouths, and the predominant bacteria were then isolated and characterized. Both the total number of bacteria accumulated per unit area and the population of predominant bacteria were similar for the electrodes and enamel surfaces, indicating that pH changes in the bacterial deposits formed on the electrodes can be representative of those occurring in natural dental plaque formed on enamel surfaces. Obligate anaerobes were predominant (68%) among the 346 isolates, and almost all the isolates were acidogenic. This may be a good reason why rapid pH-drop to pH 4 level was observed in every subject when 1% glucose or sucrose was applied to the bacterial deposits. PMID- 2519247 TI - Salivary secretion induced by umami taste. PMID- 2519248 TI - Vascular architecture of the pulp in human teeth using resin cast examined under SEM. PMID- 2519249 TI - [Frequency of three-rooted mandibular first molars. Survey by x-ray photographs]. AB - The frequency of three rooted mandibular first molars was surveyed. Subjects were of 1,353 male and female students trained in radiology at Fukuoka Dental College whose average age was 24.3 years old. Dental (complete radiographic survey using 14 films) and panoramic radiographs of their mandibular first molars were taken during a period of 9 years from 1978 to 1986. The results were as follows: 1) The number of the three-rooted mandibular first molars was 440 (18.8%) of 2,331 teeth, including 240 (20.6%) of 1,163 in the right side and 200 (17.1%) of 1,168 in the left. 2) 274 (11.8%) of the three-rooted mandibular first molars were identified by radiographs of the premolar region, 42 (1.8%) by radiographs of the molar region, 124 (5.3%) by radiographs of both the premolar and the molar region. 3) Panoramic radiography identified 70 (15.9%) out of 440 three-rooted mandibular first molars. 4) 136 (12.7%) of 1,070 subjects who had bilateral mandibular first molars had three-roots on both sides 127 (11.9%) of 1,070 had them on one side. PMID- 2519250 TI - [Changes in the microvascular patterns during the osseous healing of the tooth extraction wounds]. AB - Successive changes in the vascular pattern during the osseous healing of extraction wounds were investigated by studying microvascular casts under a scanning electron microscope. The casts were prepared utilizing the plastic injection method, after the extraction of the upper four incisors of the Japanese monkey (Macaca fuscata). Five days after extraction, vascular buds have sprouted from a pre-existing blood vessel on the alveolar wall into the blood clot, and leakage of the plastic injected was found from the tips of these buds. One week after extraction, newly-formed vessels have extended widely to the socket center, and dilated vessels have arborized towards the socket opening. Two weeks after extraction, the socket was filled with thick, newly-formed vessels. In the socket fundus, the woven bone was formed between irregular vascular networks, but was arranged different in the socket wall. Four weeks after extraction, the new bone forming on the socket wall became thickened and converted to a lamella-like bone. Inside it the woven bone was raised from the fundus, and blood vessels leaving it were decreased in their thickness and passed toward the socket center. Five weeks after extraction, the new bone structures came up to the level of the socket opening, the surface of which appeared as a shallow concavity (pivot), from which vascular bundles were directed to the socket opening. A beginning of the bone remodeling was seen in osseous trabeculae in the socket fundus. Six weeks after extraction, almost all of the socket became filled with new trabeculae, between which, fine vascular networks were sorted out and communicated with the periosteal vascular network beyond the socket margin. The interalveolar septum between the extraction sockets was thickened by deposition of the lamella-like bone to be remodeled to a cancellous bone. It can be said that microvascular patterns formed through all stages of the osseous healing of the extraction wounds contributed to a woven bone formation and its development. PMID- 2519252 TI - [Connecting pattern of rabbit surface buccal epithelial cells: a scanning electron microscopic study]. AB - Rabbit buccal epithelial cells were studied by scanning electron microscopy. The cell surface was covered with type 4 microridges. The surface was also segmented by cellular borders and attached borders. Small area enclosed by the attached border was often elevated from the surrounding areas. The intervals of the microridges of this small protrusion were narrower than those of the surrounding area and resembled those of type 5 microridges. These findings suggest that exposure of the cell membrane to the external environment induces morphological changes in the microridges. The area surrounded by cellular borders, which was considered to have become small protrusions, was also observed. These observations suggest a staggered lamination of cell stacks and the penetration of a part of cell surface of the lower layer into the cellular space of the upper layer, forming an interdigitation. This cell arrangement is considered to enhance the strength of the binding of the cells. PMID- 2519253 TI - [Sialidase in rat salivary glands. Characteristics of soluble sialidase in salivary glands and other tissues]. AB - In this study, we elucidated some characteristics of soluble sialidases in the rat salivary glands, brain, liver and kidney. 1) Soluble sialidases in the submandibular and parotid glands were inactivated by about 75 and 60%, respectively, and the enzymes in the brain, liver and kidney were also inactivated by 16-48%, when preincubated at 40 degrees C for 1h. When preincubated at 60 degrees C, the enzymes in all tissues were completely inactivated within 10 min. 2) Ca2+ ion in low concentrations tended to activate soluble sialidases in both the submandibular and parotid glands, but had no apparent effect on the enzymes in the brain, liver and kidney. The enzyme in the submandibular gland tended to be activated also by low concentrations of Mg2+. Both Cu2+ and Hg2+ ions caused a marked inhibition on the soluble sialidases in all tissues. 3) The molecular weight of soluble sialidases in the submandibular and parotid glands was determined to be about 68,000 and 46,000, respectively, by means of Sephadex G-200 gel filtration. The molecular weight of the enzymes in the brain and liver was almost similar to that of the enzyme in the parotid gland. In the kidney, soluble sialidase was separated into two enzymes, one having high (more than 500,000) and the other having low (about 46,000) molecular weight. 4) By isoelectric focusing analysis, three isozymes were detected in the submandibular gland and brain sialidases and two isozymes detected in the enzymes of other tissues. The isoelectric point of the major isozymes in the submandibular and parotid glands was 6.4 and 6.9 respectively. In the brain, liver and kidney sialidases, the isozymes with isoelectric point in the range of 4.4 to 6.7 were detected. PMID- 2519251 TI - [Differential Lissajous EMG of masticatory muscles and its application in man]. AB - Difference in the activity of masticatory muscles between subjects with normal teeth alignment and occlusion and patients with disorders at the oral region was investigated using a differential Lissajous EMG method. Surface EMGs were recorded from the right and left temporal and masseter muscles during peanut and chewing gum mastications. The difference of the integrated EMGs between both sides was obtained in both the temporals and masseters, then two differences were synthesized to a Lissajous figure. The figures generally showed the following: 1) In the normal subjects, the muscle behavior varied from stroke to stroke in peanut mastication, while it was constant in chewing gum mastication. 2) Activity of some muscles of the patients was quietly weak, while that of the normal subjects was totally balanced. 3) In the patients, combination of use between the temporal and masseter muscles and contraction order among the muscles tended to be reversed compared to the normal subjects. PMID- 2519254 TI - [Difference in uptake of junctional epithelium using microperoxidase and horseradish peroxidase as tracers in healthy rat gingiva]. AB - A microperoxidase (MP, molecular weight 1,900; molecular diameter 20 A) or a horseradish peroxidase (HRP, molecular weight 40,000; molecular diameter 40 A) was intravenously injected into healthy rat junctional epithelium (JE) to investigate the endocytosis of foreign substances. By light microscopy, intravenous HRP was taken up throughout the JE, and the uptake was marked at the coronal portion of the JE. On the other hand, MP was taken up by only the coronal portion of the JE. At the electron microscopic level, the tracers were taken up by endocytotic organellae (phagosomes and micropinocytotic vesicles) of junctional epithelial cells (JE cells). HRP-positive endocytotic organellae in the JE cells were more numerous than MP-positive organellae. Thus, JE, especially its coronal portion, exhibited strong endocytotic activity for HRP compared with that for MP. These findings suggest that the JE has selective endocytotic ability for foreign substances, and plays an important role in protecting periodontal tissue. PMID- 2519255 TI - [The effect of food consistency on conditioned avoidance response in mice and rats]. AB - The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of chewing a hard and soft diet on acquisition of conditioned avoidance response in mice and rats. 76 C57BL mice and 38 Wistar rats were divided into 2 groups respectively 20 days after birth. One group was fed a solid diet and another was fed a powder diet containing the same components as the solid one (Nihon Crea Company, CE-2). Using the avoidance conditioning system of Gunma University, conditioned avoidance experiments started at the age of 8 weeks and the rate of avoidance (number of avoidance/number of trials) was measured. The mean percentage of avoidance rates in the solid diet group were significantly higher than those of powder diet group at level of 1% in mice and 5% in rats. These results suggest that mastication of a hard diet in younger animal may facilitate their brain function more than that of a soft diet. PMID- 2519256 TI - On the external carotid artery and its branches in hens. AB - The external carotid artery and its branches were investigated in hens by an acrylic plastic injection method. The common carotid artery of hens bifurcated into the internal and external carotid arteries at the level of the second cervical vertebra. The external carotid artery advanced antero-superiorly within the platysma, stylohyoid, and occipitomandibular muscles at the postero-lateral side of the pharynx. Thereafter, it bifurcated into the anterior palatine and facial arteries between the pharynx and capitis rectus muscle at the posterior side of the medial mandibular process of the articular bone. The external carotid artery sent out the following branches: the occipital, hyomandibular, anterior temporal, sublingual, anterior palatine, and facial arteries. PMID- 2519257 TI - Hypocalcemic action of the several types of salicylic acid analogues. AB - The present study was performed to see the structure-activity relationships on the aspirin-induced hypocalcemia. Several kinds of salicylic acid (SA) analogues administered orally with a stomach tube. In general, the drugs were suspended in the 2% CMC solution. At the scheduled times after the treatment, 60 microliters of the blood was collected to determine the level of calcium. Aspirin, sodium salt of o-hydroxybenzoic acid (Na-salicylate), sodium salt of m- and p hydroxybenzoic acid (HBA), 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid (DHBA), PAS sodium dihydrate (PAS-Na), salicylamide (SAM) and 2% CMC control were used. Hypocalcemia was induced by aspirin and Na-salicylate but not by m- and p-HBA-Na. In addition, DHBA and PAS caused hypocalcemia when they were administered intravenously but not orally. These results suggest that the carboxyl group must be adjacent to the hydroxyl group on the benzene ring to induce this type of hypocalcemia and that the SA structure would be able to induce hypocalcemia, even in the presence of the additional third substituent on the same ring. On the comparison between aspirin-DL lysine (water soluble aspirin) and SA-DL lysine, SA-DL lysine, which is not an inhibitor of PG synthetase, was more effective on the hypocalcemic action than ASP-DL lysine. The phenomenon was observed at the stage especially immediately after intravenous injection, when the acetyl group may be more responsible to acetylate the PG synthetase in the aspirin-DL lysine group. The present results seems to be consistent with the previous hypothesis that PGs are not involved in the process of aspirin-induced hypocalcemia in the rat. PMID- 2519258 TI - The effect of phenytoin on the corticoidogenesis in the mitochondria and the endoplasmic reticulum of bovine adrenal cortex. AB - In the mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum of bovine adrenal cortex, the influence of phenytoin on corticoidogenesis was studied using 0.1 microCi 4-14C cholesterol, 0.01 microCi 4-14C-17 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone, deoxycorticosterone and NADPH-generating system. The cholesterol side-chain cleaving activity in the mitochondria was facilitated by 0.1 microM phenytoin, but was inhibited by higher concentrations. Steroid 11 beta-hydroxylase activity was inhibited by phenytoin. The steroid 21-hydroxylase activity in the endoplasmic reticulum, on the contrary, was mildly stimulated by 1 and 10 microM phenytoin. Phenytoin formed a modified type I spectrum in the adrenocortical mitochondria-malate complex. PMID- 2519259 TI - [Comparative WGA-lectin histochemical study on the mandibular condylar cartilage from normal and low phosphate-vitamin D deficient rats]. AB - Mandibular condylar cartilage from normal and low phosphate-vitamin D deficient rats were investigated by lectin histochemistry utilizing wheat germ agglutinin (WGA). We obtained the following results: 1) The cartilage from low phosphate vitamin D deficient animals consisted predominantly of hypertrophic chondrocytes with abundant extracellular matrix. 2) The territorial matrix of the hypertrophic cell zone of normal cartilage was intensely labelled with WGA, whereas the binding affinity of this region in low phosphate-vitamin D deficient animals was significantly diminished. 3) Compared to normal cartilage, WGA binding sites were demonstrated in the inter-territorial matrix of low phosphate-vitamin D deficient animals to a moderate degree. 4) Abolishment of the territorial WGA binding affinity in low phosphate-vitamin D deficient animals was presumed to indicate the accumulation of chondroitin sulfate which is believed to be a strong chelator of calcium ion. PMID- 2519260 TI - [The posterior auricular artery of the dog]. AB - This investigation was made on the ramifications and distribution territories of the posterior auricular artery of fifty adult dogs utilizing the plastic injection method, comparing with those of the cat. In general, the posterior auricular artery of the dog arose independently from the posterior wall of the external carotid artery at a position where it passed across the superior margin of the digastricus muscle, distal to the origin of the facial artery. In six cases of all examples observed, the posterior auricular artery arose independently from the external carotid artery at a position where it passed across the inferior margin of the digastricus muscle, proximal to the origin of the lingual artery. As principal branches, the posterior auricular artery gave rise to the parotid glandular, the digastric muscular and the strong, cervical branches in this order. It finally terminated to the temporal muscular and the major auricular branches after giving off the occipital branch and the stylomastoid artery. The distribution territories of the posterior auricular artery of the dog, being similar to those of the cat, were not only the auricule but also the muscles of the mastication, the salivary glands, the middle ear and the retromandibular regions. PMID- 2519261 TI - [Morphological studies on the margo infraorbitalis (on the longitudinal changes of infraorbital suture)]. AB - The purpose of this study was to obtain information on the developmental changes of the infraorbital margin and the form of infraorbital suture. 136 Indian craniums were divided into five developmental groups according to the stage of eruption of the teeth. The anterior view of the skull was observed photographically. The results are summarized as follows: 1. The infraorbital margins were divided into three types according to the shape of the infraorbital suture. Type I: Infraorbital suture was independent. Type II: Infraorbital suture and zygomatico-facial suture coincided. Type III: Infraorbital suture and zygomatico-facial suture were joined. Type I was the basic type of infraorbital suture. 2. The frequency of type I was 90% at the pre-eruption stage, 31.8% at the eruption stage, 41.7% at the deciduous dentition stage, 56.3% at the mixed dentition stage, and 62% at the permanent dentition stage. 3. On the distance between the median line and each point of the infraorbital margin the growth rate is expressed in values relative to a standard that was based on the pre-eruption stage. The growth rate was greatest at the highest point of the superior margin in the infraorbital foramen (1.79 times), the middle rate was at the position of the infraorbital suture (1.72 times) and the smallest rate was 1.63 times at the position of the zygomatico-facial suture. Each measuring point moved towards lateral side. PMID- 2519262 TI - [A comparison between the upper and lower jaws of the alveolar bone changes due to the extraction of frontal teeth]. AB - The present study was designed to compare the process of structural changes which appeared in the alveolar bone and cortical bone of the frontal maxilla and mandible after extraction of the incisors. Twelve adult dogs whose upper and lower incisors on the same side were extracted at the same time were kept for 29 181 days. The dogs were injected continuously with tetracycline during the first half of the experimental period and with calcein during the latter half. Labio palatal and labio-lingual longitudinal ground sections were first micro radiographed and, then, examined by fluorescence microscopy. From a montage of fluorescence micrograms, color tracings of the labelling sites were made on thin plastic sheets. The two images of the control and experimental sides were precisely compared The structural changes which appeared in all the parts of the alveolar bone and cortical bone after extraction of the incisors were more prominent in the maxilla than in the mandible. New bone formation in the extraction socket appeared and was completed earlier in the maxilla than in the mandible. Secondary internal remodelling of the alveolar bone proper and the newly formed bone in the extraction socket progressed more quickly in the maxilla than in the mandible. The remodelling of cortical bone and the resorption of the alveolar crest was made very actively in the upper labial side, whereas these process very slight in the upper palatal side and in the lower labial and lingual sides, so that the contour of the frontal maxilla, especially in its labial side, was more prominently deformed than the mandible. PMID- 2519263 TI - Morphological study of the cytoskeleton of endothelial cells in vitro. Effects of heparin and protamine. AB - The relation between the cytoskeleton and multiplication of cultured endothelial cells was observed immunocytochemically and electron microscopically. Heparin and protamine were used to control the multiplication of the cells. Cytochalasin D, a microfilament synthesis inhibitor, was also used, and its effect on cytoskeletal morphology was compared with the effect of heparin or protamine. In order to quantify changes in microfilaments, the ratio of the length of microfilaments to that of intermediate filaments (M/I ratio) was measured by transmission electron microscopy of the whole mounted cells. The addition of heparin to the culture medium not only enhanced multiplication of the endothelial cells, but also induced the outgrowth of many pseudopodia. In association with these changes, microfilaments became sparse, and stress fibers became short. The addition of protamine to the culture medium suppressed multiplication of endothelial cells and made them spherical. The thickening of the cytoplasmic layer increased the apparent density of the cytoskeleton, but the M/I ratio remained unchanged. Cytochalasin D made the endothelial cells spherical, and at the same time stress fibers disappeared, and microfilaments became sparse. The M/I ratio was smaller than that of the others. Protamine may inactivate protein which forms bridges to connect microfilaments or which binds microfilaments and the cell membrane. PMID- 2519264 TI - Long-term observations of the masseter muscle following single or repeated injections of lidocaine hydrochloride into developing mice. AB - Effects of lidocaine-HCl on extrafusal muscle fibers in the masseter muscle of developing mice were studied histologically and morphometrically. In the affected region, many extrafusal muscle fibers were circular and smaller in diameter than unaffected extrafusal muscle fibers, and the SDH activity of the affected fibers was very irregular. In lidocaine-HCl injected groups, the ratios of extrafusal muscle fibers with central nuclei to total extrafusal muscle fibers were higher than those in the saline solution-injected groups. The diameters of extrafusal muscle fibers in the masseter muscle treated with lidocaine-HCl were smaller than those in the saline solution-injected groups. These changes in the muscle with lidocaine-HCl continued for 45 days after a single injection. Five injections of lidocaine-HCl into developing mice caused long-term degeneration of the masseter muscle. Thus, the present study suggests that a local anesthetic agent caused degeneration of immature muscle fibers of the masseter muscle in developing mice and may result in long-term decrease of masticatory capacity. Therefore, lidocaine-HCl may inhibit the synchronized development of masticatory organs in developing animals. PMID- 2519265 TI - Immunohistochemical and ultrastructural study of hyaline bodies in odontogenic cysts. AB - Hyaline bodies in odontogenic cysts were examined by using histochemical and immunohistochemical techniques and transmission electron microscopy in order to study their origin. These methods revealed no evidence of keratinization, erythrocytes, and endothelial cells in the hyaline bodies. Ultrastructurally, epidermoid cells were attached to the hyaline bodies by hemidesmosomes and induced numerous vesicles in their cytoplasm. Electron probe X-ray microanalysis demonstrated a resemblance between components of the vesicles and that of the hyaline bodies. This close relationship of both structures supports the hypothesis that hyaline bodies are a secretory product of odontogenic epithelium. PMID- 2519266 TI - Plaque pH recovery by mouth-rinses with water. AB - A transistor pH electrode (pH-ISFET electrode) was placed in each of four human mouths and bacteria were allowed to accumulate on it for 1, 2 or 3 days. Changes of plaque pH were measured in situ after application of sucrose solution (0.1, 1 or 3%) and, then, quick pH recovery by mouth-rinses with water was estimated. Although the acidic pH after application of 0.1% sucrose was easily and quickly recovered from by a few mouth-rinses with water, rather frequent mouth-rinses with water were required to recover from the acidic pH of 2- or 3-day-old plaque after the application of a 1 or 3% sucrose solution. For example, 15 (mean, n = 4) mouth-rinses with water were required for the 3 day-old plaque pH to recover after the application of 3% sucrose solution. PMID- 2519267 TI - Decreased level of immunoreactive epidermal growth factor in the hindlimb muscle of muscular dystrophic mice. PMID- 2519268 TI - [Production of fibroblast chemotactic factors from root canal bacteria]. AB - It is well known that periapical pathosis is one of endogenous infections caused by indigenous bacteria in the oral cavity. Therefore, interaction of host and parasite factors affect the progress of the lesion. In host factors, fibroblasts migrate chemotactically, proliferate and constitute new connective tissues at a late stage of the inflammation process. All of chemoattractants for fibroblasts previously reported are derived from the host. In this study, fibroblast chemotactic activities in bacteria isolated from chronic periapical pathosis cases were examined. Fibroblast chemotactic activity was measured by the membrane filter method using cultured guinea pig dermal fibroblasts. Fibroblast migration was activated by bacterial supernatants of 4 species among 45 species tested. This indicates the possibility that these bacterial factors as well as host derivatives such as fibronectin, lymphokine, collagen-, elastin- and platelet derived factors, may exert an influence on the process of periapical pathosis. The supernatant from Succinivibrio dextrinosolvens showed the most intensive chemotactic activity, which were separated into two fractions by Sephacryl S-300. The active fraction having a lower molecular weight (Mw. ca. 280K) did not absorb on DEAE-Sepharose CL-6B and this activity was resistant to heat and proteolytic enzymes. PMID- 2519269 TI - [Self-setting apatite cement. 6. Possibility as bone substitute]. AB - Self-setting apatite cement was investigated to evaluate its use as a possible bone substitute in the rat femur. The implant sites were recovered at intervals up 12 weeks postoperatively and investigated by the use of x-ray diffraction, contact microradiography, light and electron microscopy. By x-ray diffraction analysis, the cement placed for at least one day in the medullary canal of rats was found to be completely converted to a set phase of hydroxyapatite resembling the main inorganic phase of bone. In any specimens prepared at 1, 4, 12 weeks after implantation, no appreciable foreign body response was observed in the tissue around the set cement. At four weeks after implantation the set cement was in tight contact with the newly formed bone which appeared to involve osteocytes in lacunae and osteoblastic cells on its surface. At twelve weeks after implantation, the newly formed bone tended to grow into the interior of the set cement. With scanning electron microscopy, the newly formed bone was found to be directly deposited on the set cement. The newly formed bone consisted of fine needle-like crystals. These results strongly suggest that this cement is well tolerated by bone tissue and osteogenesis when used as a bone substitute. The advantage of the present material as a promising bone substitute is that it can be filled in surgical or traumatic bone defect as a slurry or paste. PMID- 2519270 TI - [Variations of dentition in raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes Procynoides Viverrinus T.) Anomalies in number of the teeth]. AB - A study on the number of anomalous teeth was made by using gross and radiographic examinations on 179 skulls (male: 68, female: 53, unknown: 58) of raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes Procynoides Viverrinus T.) captured in the northern part of Kyushu. Results were as follows: 1. 8 skulls had 15 supernumerary teeth. They were in the upper incisor, the upper third premolar and the upper and lower first premolar regions. 2. 35 skulls had 58 congenitally missing teeth. Most of them were upper and lower first premolars or lower third molars. 3. One skull had one supernumerary tooth in the upper second incisor region and one congenitally missing tooth, a lower third molar. 4. The anomalous teeth were about 25%, the supernumerary teeth and congenitally missing teeth were about 4.5% and 20% respectively. PMID- 2519271 TI - [Age-dependent changes in the phosphorylation of nuclear phosphoproteins of rat salivary glands]. AB - Development, growth, maturation and aging processes of secretory cells of rat salivary glands progress mainly after birth. Nuclear non-histone proteins, phosphorylated actively and reversively, have an important role as regulatory molecules of gene activity and have a possibility to bring about specific changes in these cellular processes. We examined in the present study the age-dependent changes in the phosphorylation of non-histone proteins of rat salivary glands. Nuclei purified from submandibular and parotid glands of 8-week-old rats rapidly incorporated 32P from gamma-32P-ATP into the nuclear phosphoproteins and reached equilibrium within 9 min. A preponderant amount of the 32P was present in non histone proteins. The levels of phosphorylation of non-histone proteins in salivary gland nuclei increased rapidly after birth, reaching a maximum in both gland nuclei of 4-week-old rats and then decreasing to the levels observed in submandibular and parotid gland nuclei from 20 and 16-week-old rats, respectively. These levels were still maintained in nuclei from aged rats. Moreover, age-dependent changes in the protein kinase activity of submandibular and parotid gland nuclei were linked up with the changes in the phosphorylation of non-histone proteins. However, changes were not observed in the phosphorylation of histone proteins after birth. These results suggest that protein kinase activity in salivary gland nuclei may have an important role on age-dependent changes in cell function, mediated through the control of the phosphorylation of non-histone proteins. PMID- 2519272 TI - [Histological studies of the mouse palate. Formation of the incisive suture]. AB - The morphology of the incisive suture (InS) in mice was studied using specimens stained with alizarin red S. Formation of this suture was also studied histologically with light microscopy. The InS is composed of three regions; the 1st and 2nd are short and well interdigitated regions respectively situated on the inside and the outside of the anterior palatine foramen. The 3rd region is a loose curved region situated on the outside and the nasal cavity side of the cranium. The InS surrounds the posterior region of the incisors in the upper jaw with a ring-like form. The InS is formed in four steps; cell aggregation (19 days postconception and one day postpartum), formation of bone extensions and collagen fiber bundles (4 and 7 days postpartum), modification of the orientation of these fiber bundles (14 days postpartum), and formation of the serrated suture and fiber bundles with regular orientation (21, 30 and 60 days postpartum). Furthermore, the distance between the bones in the InS was found to be from 40 to 60 microns. The morphology of the InS indicates that it functions as a strong connection between bones, and as a buffer zone. These functions of the InS seem to correspond closely with the function of the incisors in the upper jaw. PMID- 2519273 TI - Small angle X-ray scattering study on Lingula unguis shell. AB - Lingula unguis shell yields a diffuse small angle X-ray scattering which is caused mainly by the scattering from particles of apatite. In this study, the distribution of particles smaller than 500A was analyzed using the small angle X ray scattering technique. The non-linear Guinier plot indicates that the shell contains various sizes of apatite particles ranging about 20-460A. The small granules with size about 20-160A in diameter are located in the marginal part of the shell and progressively larger granules are observed internally towards the central part. The scattering is anisotropic in the lateral and central part, where the apatite crystals highly ordered. The combined analysis of wide and small angle diffraction indicates that the particles are elongated in the c-axis direction and, furthermore, their long axes are arranged almost parallel to the direction of growth in these parts. This suggests that small and isotropic particles are formed in the early stage of mineralization and larger ellipsoidal shaped particles are formed in the later stage of mineralization. PMID- 2519274 TI - Cytoskeleton in the apical region of mouse taste bud cells. AB - The cytoskeletal structures in the apical region of mouse taste bud cells were examined by immunocytochemistry and electron microscopy. Immunostaining for actin showed positive reactions in the apical portions of the taste buds. These regions contained bundles of longitudinally oriented filaments (5-7 nm in diameter) extending from the tip of microvilli to the apical cytoplasm of type I, II, and III cells. After incubation with heavy meromyosin, arrowhead formation was observed along these filaments, thus indicating these filaments to be composed of actin. The plasmalemmal undercoat, which was composed of vertical and horizontal layers, was observed on the zonula occludens. It is supposed that this undercoat gives the structural support for the lateral membrane of the apical region in the taste bud cells. PMID- 2519275 TI - High resolution proton nuclear magnetic resonance studies of human saliva. PMID- 2519276 TI - [Morphology and microvascular architecture of the filiform papillae in the rat]. AB - This study was an attempt in order to investigate microvascular architecture in various kinds of the filiform papillae of the rat utilizing the plastic injection method. Filiform papillae of the rat were grouped into three types; the simple and the giant conical and the true filiform. Additionally, the simple conical papillae could be subgrouped into type I, II and digitiform papillae, and the forked filiform as an intermediate form between the giant conical and the true filiform, based on their function and microvasculature. The capillary loop of the true filiform papillae was the simplest, hair-pin loop. The basic form of the loop was similar to the loop of the simple conical type I, II, and digitiform papillae respectively, although that of type II, having two or three ascending crura, was the most complicated of the three. Capillary loops of the giant conical papillae consisted of three or five ascending crura which passed upward in the pharyngeal side, the descending crura consisted or similar capillaries and passed downward at the lingual apex side. Each of the crura possessed its own loop. It can be said conclusively that this detailed investigation of the intrapapillary microvascular architecture in the rat has enabled a morphological classification of the papillae to be made. PMID- 2519277 TI - [Some phenolic compounds stimulate the proliferation of human pulpal fibroblasts]. AB - Phenolic compounds are widely used in dental clinics especially for the treatment of inflammatory responses of the dental pulp. However, the role of these agents in the repair of pulpal connective tissue is unclear. In the present study, an effect has been identified in several phenolic compounds that can stimulate active proliferation of pulpal fibroblasts. Human pulpal fibroblasts (HPF) were obtained from subcultures of between 5 and 15 passages. HPF in tissue culture plates were incubated in serum-free medium with several phenolic compounds at concentrations of 10(-8) M to 10(-4) M for 4 days. After incubation, cells were fixed, stained in culture plates and the number of nuclei counted. Phenol (10(-8) M to 10(-4) M) stimulated proliferation in a quiescent population of HPF, and the number of cells increased 27-41% compared with unstimulated cells. When HPF were incubated with p-chlorophenol, guaiacol, thymol or eugenol, there was a significant activation of cell proliferation (5 to 22%). Moreover, cell viability of the HPF was not influenced at all, except in the cases of p-chlorophenol and eugenol at concentrations of 10(-4) M. These observations may contribute to an understanding of the relationship between the stimulative effects of phenolic compounds and pulpal tissue repair. PMID- 2519278 TI - [Three dimensional structure of the connective tissue papillae of the tongue in Suncus murinus]. AB - The surface structure of the connective tissue papillae (CP) of Suncus murinus tongue was observed by SEM after fixing with Karnovsky's fixative and removal of the epithelial cell layer with 3N or 8N HCl. On the surface of the slender conical tongue, there are densely distributed filiform papillae among which fungiform papillae are seen sporadically. A pair of vallate papillae are situated in the posterior region of the tongue. Filiform papillae appear somewhat different externally depending on the dorsal surface of the anterior tongue. At the tip of the tongue, filiform papillae are of a slender conical shape and have a slight depression in the anterior basal portion. The CP of these is seen as a spherical protrusion on which a shallow groove runs in the anteroposterior direction. In the middle region, somewhat large filiform papillae contain CP having one or two small round head-like structures on each spherical protrusion. These head-like structures are increased in number in the posterior region. In the most posterior region of the anterior tongue, there are distributed large filiform papillae having several slender protrusions that surround a basal anterior depression. These large branched filiform papillae have a glove finger like CP. Small conical filiform papillae are distributed in the posterior marginal region of the anterior tongue which have CP of a horse-shoe like protrusion that opens in the anterior direction. Spherical fungiform papillae have CP which are thick columnar in shape with many lateral thin folds running vertically and having a round depression on the top of each. CP of the vallate papillae appear as a beehive like structure.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2519279 TI - [In vitro cultivation of human pulpal fibroblast strains--permanent and deciduous teeth]. AB - We succeeded in separating and the cultivating stable monolayer cultures of dental pulp fibroblast strains derived from permanent and deciduous human teeth. Human permanent (n = 67) and deciduous teeth (n = 26) were extracted under acupuncture anaesthesia for the correction of malocclusion. After splitting the teeth, the pulp tissues were carefully removed, placed in tissue culture flasks, and grown in Dulbecco's modified Eagle medium supplemented with 10% fetal calf serum (FCS). The human pulpal fibroblasts (HPF) of permanent teeth and deciduous teeth (DHPF) were subcultured. Both the HPF and DHPF appeared to migrate from adherent tissues within 24 to 48 hr after explanation. They proliferated in the pulp explants, and lined up in parallel rows of cells closest to the explant tissue within 7 to 10 days in all of the experimental cases. The outgrowing cells were subcultured at 1.3 x 10(4) cells/cm2 in tissue culture flasks every 4-11 days. They showed vigorous proliferation. The average number of cells in the 6-7 day cultures of HPF were 5.6 x 10(4) cells/cm2 from 3 to 16 passages. It was 4.7 x 10(4) cells/cm2 from 3 to 10 passages with DHPF. However, no difference was observed between HPF and DHPF in the amount of synthesized protein in culture flasks. Furthermore, the growth rate of DHPF was more sensitive than that of HPF to the FCS percentages of the culture media. PMID- 2519280 TI - On the distribution of elastic fibers in the filiform papillae of Suncus murinus. AB - The distribution of elastic fibers in the filiform papillae of 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 week-old and 6 month-old Suncus (Suncus murinus; insectivora) was examined by both Weigert's resorcin-fuchsin method and ultrastructural means. In the adult Suncus (6 months old), elastic fibers in the connective tissue core of the papillae were aligned perpendicularly to the epithelial surface and formed a palisade-like structure which encircled the margin of each connective tissue core. This characteristic structure was restricted to the filiform papillae in the anterior half of the lingual dorsum. In the filiform papillae of the posterior half, elastic fibers were markedly reduced and the palisade-like structure was not present. This characteristic pattern of elastic fiber distribution was established by 3 weeks of age. These observations reveal a characteristic structure consisting of elastic fibers in the connective tissue core of the filiform papillae and the regional distribution of this structure in the tongue. This suggests that the function of the structure in the connective tissue core is to protect against mechanical stress in mastication. The regional distribution of this structure may reflect the difference of mechanical strength between the anterior and posterior of the tongue caused by tongue movement during mastication. PMID- 2519282 TI - Effects of various culture conditions on matrix formative functions of rat incisor odontoblasts in a pulp-dentin slice culture system. AB - An attempt to develop a new pulp-dentin slice culture system was carried out using thin slices of rat incisors in order to obtain a better culture method which will be useful for studies of the physiological function of odontoblasts including the mechanism of dentiogenesis. The thin slices of incisors were prepared from mandibles of 4-5-day-old rats, using original equipment that was developed in the present study. They were incubated under stationary and rocking culture conditions with two oxygen tensions (50 and 95%). The hyperbaric condition (30% O2, 2 atm) was also tested. Histological observations, [3H] proline uptake examination and [3H]-proline autoradiography were carried out in order to estimate the matrix formative ability of odontoblasts. The results showed that the pulp-dentin slice culture system successfully preserved the viability and the matrix formative function of odontoblasts. The rocking culture was more favorable than the stationary culture to maintain the cell viability. The higher oxygen tension improved the matrix formative function of odontoblasts. Satisfactory results were obtained from the rocking culture (95% O2) and the hyperbaric stationary culture (30% O2, 2 atm). These results suggest that a large amount of oxygen may be required for maintaining the functions of odontoblasts in this new pulp-dentin slice culture system. PMID- 2519281 TI - X-ray crystallographic studies as to the calcification in the Hunter-Schreger bands of human enamel. AB - By analyzing integrated intensities of X-ray diffraction patterns and X-ray diffractograms obtained from the two zones of the Hunter-Schreger bands, it was deduced that the ratio of the sums of the integrated intensities and the degree of preferred orientation of the crystal aggregates in both zones of the bands were almost the same in value, but the fiber axes of the two zones were oriented in different directions. From these experimental observations and a consideration of the effect of the orientation of the enamel prisms relative to the incident X ray beam, it is concluded that the two zones of the bands were calcified evenly and the light and dark zones on the microradiographs were caused by the difference in the orientation of enamel prisms. PMID- 2519283 TI - A histomorphometric analysis of the alveolar bone resorption process in calcium deficient rats. AB - The present study was carried out to investigate the morphological changes in the alveolar bone in rats fed a low calcium diet, in order to establish an experimental model of alveolar bone resorption. Male Wistar rats (70-85 g in body weight) were either fed a low calcium diet (0.05% Ca, 0.35% P) or a control diet (0.5% Ca, 0.35% P) by using a pair feeding technique. The rats were sacrificed at intervals of 3, 6, 9 and 20 days. No difference was found in the growth rate between the control and the low calcium group. In the low calcium group, the bone area significantly reduced at day 3 and progressively decreased to 46% of that of the controls by the end of the experiment. The bone resorption was obvious in the cancellous bone during the early period of the experiment and then the cortical bone was seen to resorb. However, the contour of bone and the rate of bone apposition did not change. At day 20, bone still remained in three regions: the alveolar bone proper that surrounds the tooth sockets, a few cancellous bones and a thin wall-like cortical bone. These results suggest that the process of alveolar bone resorption is related to the mechanical forces induced by the occlusal function of the tooth and, further, that this experimental model might be useful for investigating the mechanism of alveolar bone resorption and disorders of the alveolar bone. PMID- 2519284 TI - Intranuclear androgen-receptor complex binding sites of mouse submandibular gland. AB - Nuclear androgen-receptor binding sites in chromatin regions of mouse submandibular gland were studied. Cytosol androgen receptors prelabeled with [3H]androgen interacted with the crude nuclei in mouse submandibular gland and activation of the receptor was a prerequisite for this interaction. After in vivo administration of [3H]androgen to female mice, radioactivities were found in the nuclei purified from submandibular gland tissues and the [3H]androgen-labeled purified nuclei were further digested with micrococcal nuclease. The androgen receptor was found in solubilized, active chromatin fractions which contained mono- and dinucleosomes. By an in vitro exchange assay, endogenous androgen receptor complexes associated with chromatin binding sites in intact males were found in the solubilized fraction after micrococcal nuclear digestion, whereas such complexes were not found in females. These results suggest that the androgen receptors translocated to the nuclei and became associated with chromatin and that this association occurred in transcriptionally active chromatin regions that were preferentially sensitive to micrococcal nuclease. PMID- 2519285 TI - The effects of submandibularectomy on the thymus and the T cell system of mice. The morphological changes. AB - Morphological changes of the T cell immune system compartments (thymus and spleen) and the steroid hormone producing glands (adrenal and testis) in the submandibular-ectomized (SMx) male mice of CBA/H strain were analyzed. Thymus, spleen, testis and adrenal gland were weighed and processed for the morphological examination by light- and electron-microscopy. The serum level of testosterone was evaluated by radioimmunoassay. No weight and morphological changes were observed in the testis and adrenal gland, and the testosterone level in sera was not changed after SMx. These results indicate that any relationship between the submandibular salivary glands and the immune system was not mediated through them. The epithelial hormone-producing cells located in thymus medulla showed the most prominent changes after SMx evaluated by the neuron specific enolase immunostainings and by the ultrastructural analysis. After SMx, the number of very active epithelial hormone-producing cells in both cortex and medulla of the thymus was markedly increased. PMID- 2519286 TI - Morphometric and immunohistochemical investigation of oral epithelial dysplasia and squamous cell carcinoma. AB - Morphometric assessment including epithelial indices which express morphological features of the epithelium, mitotic index, mean nuclear area, mean form factor of the nucleus and cellular infiltration in the stroma was performed in 14 cases with oral non-dysplastic epithelium and 66 cases with dysplastic epithelium. The results from morphometry showed a close relationship to the histological severity of dysplasia determined by the histological criteria of Banoczy. Immunohistochemical localization of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), epithelial membrane antigen (EMA) and epidermal growth factor (EGF) were investigated in 14 cases of non-dysplastic epithelium, 66 cases of dysplastic epithelium and 16 cases of squamous cell carcinoma, and compared with the morphometric results. Positive rates of CEA and EMA reaction in epithelial dysplasia increased with the advance of the dysplastic grade. Those of EGF reaction decreased with the advance of the dysplastic grade. It is suggested that morphometry and immunohistochemistry are useful in confirmation of the histological severity of oral epithelial dysplasia. PMID- 2519287 TI - Hard palate and retropalatal space in adult Japanese dry skulls. AB - This is a basic study designed to elucidate the correlation between the lengths of the hard palate and retropalatal space. We also measured the mean lengths of the hard palate and the retropalatal space, emphasizing on measuring the mean proportional lengths of the hard palate and retropalatal space in relation to the total lengths of these two. This osteometric study was done on 89 adult Japanese dry skulls involving, the measurement of five linear dimensions including two modified dimensions. The lengths of the hard palate had a statistically significant correlation with the retropalatal space length. Clinical significance of this study is that, it will be advantageous for the better assessment of the bony anatomy of palatal inadequacy patients, with speech problems, resulting from abnormalities in the palate and the velopharyngeal port. This study also reports a new term "RETROPALATAL SPACE" to represent the gap in the base of dry skulls between the posterior border of the hard palate and the anterior margin of the for-a men magnum. PMID- 2519288 TI - Murine monoclonal antibody to secretory component. PMID- 2519290 TI - [Study of the relationship between fibronectin and morphological changes in the early process of periodontal ligament formation]. AB - The localization of fibronectin (FN) in the initial stage of periodontal ligament formation was examined immunohistochemically. This period was divided into four stages with respect to epithelial-mesenchymal interactions. FN was observed on the cell membrane of the follicular mesenchymal cells near the basement membrane of the epithelial root sheath outer layer (stage I). In the stages of contact between follicular mesenchymal cells and the epithelial cells of the outer layer (stage II) and those penetrating the intercellular space of the discontinuous epithelial cells of the root sheath (stage III), FN was observed on the cell membrane of follicular mesenchymal cells which was in contact with epithelial cells. Follicular mesenchymal cells which were in contact with the FN rich dentin surface had well-developed cytoplasmic organelles (stage IV). Nonstriated fibrils were seen close to the projection of mesenchymal cells elongating toward the dentin surface, and were oriented parallel to the projection. FN in the small fibrils was clearly observed in the area connected to the mesenchymal cells. The reaction of FN was less in the area where collagen fibrils were organized into bundles. A dense amount of FN was seen where the periodontal ligament crossed into the dentin surface collagen. It is considered that FN plays an important role in follicular mesenchymal cell penetration of the increasing intercellular space between epithelial cells, the differentiation into the fibroblast at the dentin surface, the formation and arrangement of the periodontal ligament, and the attachment of the periodontal ligament to the dentin surface. PMID- 2519289 TI - [Cytokinetic study on healing of burned injury in the lip mucosal epithelium of C3Hf/He mice]. AB - The cell growth kinetics in response to a burned injury was studied in the lip mucosal epithelium of C3Hf/He mice by using a pulse labelling method with 3H thymidine for microautoradiography. Basal cells were labelled immediately after injury, and the mice were sacrificed for preparation at various intervals of time thereafter. The variations in frequencies of the labelled cells and mitosis were observed in their neighbors by the injury and also in untreated cells for comparison. The results of the observation are summarized as following. 1) The cell cycle time of the neighbor basal cells was estimated as 25.4 hrs, being about 36% shorter than that of 39.5 hrs in untreated cells. 2) The transition of the basal cells towards the upper layers of the epithelium was found to occur earlier (about 6 hrs after injury) in the neighboring cells in contrast to the transition time (20 hrs after labelling of untreated cells. But there was no difference in the rate of transition between the neighbors and the untreated cells. 3) The turnover time of the lip epithelial cells, which was measured by the peak to peak time difference in labelling index between basal and granular layers, was about 2 days and became about half of the time (4 days) for untreated cells. 4) The labelling index was found to form a peak first in the neighborhood at a distance of 200-300 cells away from the edge of the injury. Then, this peak moved centripetally toward the edge of burn, as time passed. PMID- 2519291 TI - [The submental artery of the cat]. AB - This study was made on the origin, ramifications and distribution features of the submental artery in 50 adult cats utilizing acryl plastic injection method, with discussion about the comparative angiology of the maxillo-facial region. The submental artery of the cat arose from the facial artery at the posterolateral margin of the mylohyoideus muscle in an aspect of a course continuation of the facial artery. But the submental artery in one case arose directly from the external carotid artery at the same portion as the usual origin of the facial artery. The submental artery passed anteroinferomedially between the insertion of the digastricus and the origin of the mylohyoideus muscle with the mylohyoid nerve up to the anterolateral end of the mylohyoideus muscle, where it gave rise to the sublingual artery. The submental artery continued towards the inferoposterior end of the intermandibular synchondrosis beneath the genioglossus muscle originating from the inferior border of the mandible, where it became the median branch by anastomosing with the opposite fellow at the median region. Principal ramifications were observed as follows: the sublingual artery, the premasseteric, the digastric, the mylohyoid, the cutaneous, the genioglossal and the median branches. The general angiological aspect of the submental artery in the cat was similar to that in the dog, except its peripheral ramifications. Lingual gingivae of the lower incisors of the cat were supplied by the median branch of the submental artery, but those of the dog by the sublingual artery. Anastomoses between the bilateral submental arteries were found in many cases of the cat, while unilaterally between the submental and the sublingual arteries in the dog. PMID- 2519292 TI - Cranial size and its relations to the length of the hard palate and retropalatal space in Japanese dry skulls. AB - This is a basic study designed to elucidate the correlation between the different cranial dimensions to the lengths of the hard palate and retropalatal space in dry skulls. A craniometric analysis is reported for 89 adult Japanese dry skulls. Eight dimensions were measured. The results of the study revealed that the cranial size has statistically significant correlations to the length of the hard palate and retropalatal space. It also revealed that a different pattern of correlation exists in the male and the female skulls. This study is probably the first of its kind. The results will serve as a basis for clinical research dealing with the anatomy and physiology of the palate and velopharyngeal port (velum pharyngeal musculature and pharyngeal aperture), which are concerned with normal speech formations. PMID- 2519293 TI - Culture conditions for efficient recovery of bacteria from infected dental root canals. AB - For better bacterial recovery from endodontic lesions, several bacterial culture conditions were studied. Samples taken from endodontic lesions of 26 freshly extracted teeth, and the bacterial growth was determined in 11 kinds of growth media under aerobic (in air with or without addition of 5% CO2) or anaerobic conditions (in an anaerobic glove box). Among the media tested, bacteria of endodontic lesions were most efficiently recovered in brain heart infusion medium containing 4% sheep blood (BHI-Blood) under anaerobic conditions. For routine dental practice, serum can be substituted for blood which makes the media opaque, resulting in clear media, and thus bacterial growth can be judged more easily. PMID- 2519294 TI - Developmental change in activity of N-acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase and a comparison of its multiple enzyme activities in the masseter muscle of normal and dystrophic mice. PMID- 2519295 TI - Disappearance of preabsorptive insulin responses to sweet tasting stimuli in the rat conditioned taste aversion. PMID- 2519296 TI - Phosphorylation of parotid and submandibular gland protein by calcium/phospholipid dependent protein kinase. PMID- 2519297 TI - Mineralized bone nodule formation in vitro by cell populations from young adult rabbit alveolar bone. PMID- 2519298 TI - [Histological changes in periodontal tissues of rat molars following perforation of the pulp and its floor]. AB - Histological changes in periodontal tissues of the first maxillary molars of immature rats following perforation down through the floor of pulp chamber were observed with light and electron microscopes. One and two weeks after perforation, ovally shaped epithelial islands were frequently observed in the apical end of the roots. Cellular cementum was being formed rapidly around the islands and the amorphous layer, containing scanty collagen fibrils and microfilaments, was observed between the epithelial islands and cementum. Four and eight weeks after the treatment, the islands were embedded in the cellular cementum and undergoing degeneration. In the bifurcational area, destruction of the periodontal tissues and subsequent proliferation of epithelium derived from the gingiva were observed. The epithelial rests of Malassez were characterized by enlargement of nucleus and cytoplasm. The results indicate that inflammatory stimulation induced histological changes of the odontogenic epithelial cells and enhances the formation of cementum. The possibility that the epithelial cells are associated with the formation of cementum is also suggested. PMID- 2519299 TI - [Numerical anomaly of teeth in mongrel juvenile dogs. Canis familiaris]. AB - As this study subjects, upper and lower dentitions of 49 mongrel dogs were used. X-ray films of the upper and lower dentitions of the dogs were taken. These films were from the collection of the Department of Pedodontics, School of Dentistry, Aichi-Gakuin University. Although the data on the sex and age of the dogs were not available, the dental ages were judged to range from the deciduous dentition to the early mixed dentition. Molars were not dealt with in this study for two reasons: 1) the molars of many of the subjects had not yet been calcified, and 2) the upper second and/or lower third molars, if present, had frequently been sacrificed when the jaws were separated. Numerical anomalies were observed in 16 dogs (32.7%). And infranumerary teeth were observed in 14 dogs (26.8%). Incidences of infranumerary teeth were higher in the secondary dentitions than in the primary ones. Most of the infranumerary teeth were found in both the upper and lower premolars, but not in the upper incisors and the upper and lower canines. Infranumerary teeth often occurred symmetrically whereas supernumerary teeth occurred asymmetrically. This investigation suggests that tendency of the reduction of the upper third premolar was considered to be caused by the reduction of the maxilla through the process of domestication. These results are inconsistent with Fujita's terminal reduction theory. PMID- 2519300 TI - [Fine structural observations of age changes in cementocytes of human permanent teeth]. AB - Human cementum formation is a continuous process which occurs throughout life. Young cementocytes are situated near the periodontal membrane and old cementocytes towards the cementodentinal junction. Electron microscopic observations on 110 cementocytes of human permanent teeth were carried out to analyze the morphological and morphometric changes due to ageing. Cementocytes with ageing showed a rapid decrease in the number of the cell and a gradual decrease in the size of the cell, nucleus and cytoplasm. The location of the nucleus was changed from the periodontal side to the dentinal side and was hyperchromatic. Organelles showed a decrease in the size of the mitochondria, the rough-surfaced endoplasmic reticulum and the Golgi apparatus, meanwhile showing a gradual increase in the number of vacuoles and lysosomes. The cell death with ageing showed a rapid increase in number and their lacunae contained nuclear remnants, mitochondrial-like structures and fine fibrillar materials. Two distinct types of age changes were recognized: cytoplasmic swelling with scanty organelles and pronounced vacuoles, and cytoplasmic atrophy preserving the rough surfaced endoplasmic reticulum in the narrowing cementum lacuna. PMID- 2519302 TI - [Effects of growth factors on scar fibroblasts derived from rat palatal mucosa]. AB - Many growth factors are known to play important roles in the early wound healing process. However, their roles in the subsequent scar formation phase are relatively unexplored. The aim of this study is to investigate how these factors affect DNA and collagen synthesis by scar fibroblasts in the scar formation process. Experimental wounds were made by excising palatal mucosa of eight-week old SD rats. One month later, immature scar tissues were secured from the palate and scar fibroblasts (SF) were obtained from explant cultures of these tissues. Normal fibroblasts (NF), used for control, were obtained from palatal mucosa of untreated animals by the same culture procedure. SF had more slender shape than NF in stationary phase. SF showed longer doubling time, higher collagen synthesis and relatively higher type III collagen formation compared with NF. PDGF and EGF stimulated [3H] Thymidine uptake less effectively in SF than in NF. TGF-beta had no effects on [3H] Thymidine uptake when it was added alone. However, when TGF beta was administrated in combination with EGF, the EGF-induced stimulation in DNA synthesis was suppressed dose-dependently. TGF-beta stimulated collagen synthesis more effectively in SF than in NF. These data may explain the reason for the accumulation of collagen and the increase in cell number during the scar formation process. PMID- 2519301 TI - [A cytochemical study of lysosomal system in rat junctional epithelium after intravenous horseradish peroxidase injection]. AB - Lysosome formation was studied in rat junctional epithelium (JE) by detection of acid phosphatase (ACPase) using the cerium reaction method after intravenous injection of horseradish peroxidase (HRP). Intravenously injected HRP was endocytosed by the whole JE, especially at the coronal portion. ACPase activity was also observed in numerous organellae (vacuoles, dense bodies, multivesicular bodies and Golgi cisternae) in the junctional epithelial cells. These ACPase positive organellae often fused with each other, and their contents were mixed in the fused structures. The numbers of the ACPase-positive organellae in the HRP exposed JE were more numerous than those in the JE without HRP, especially at the coronal portion. Thus, the distribution of the ACPase-positive products in the JE was closely related to that of HRP-positive products. These findings indicated that the whole JE has not only endocytotic ability but also intracellular digestion ability by the lysosomal enzymes. PMID- 2519303 TI - Effects of autonomic agents on the secretion of glycoproteins from the secretory cells of the major salivary glands in rats. AB - The characteristics of the glycoproteins contained in the secretory segments of the three major salivary glands of adult male rats and the secretion of these various glycoproteins in response to autonomic agents were examined by micro-disc electrophoresis. Characterization of the glycoproteins showed that the acinar segments from the three major salivary glands and the segments of the convoluted granular tubules from the submandibular gland each contain characteristic species of glycoproteins. The glycoproteins characteristic of the acinus of the submandibular gland were secreted into saliva in response to carbachol or dobutamine, those characteristic of the parotid gland by carbachol, methoxamine, or dobutamine, and those of the sublingual gland by carbachol, whereas glycoproteins characteristic of the convoluted granular tubules of the submandibular gland were only elicited by methoxamine. The secretory response of carbachol, methoxamine and dobutamine, respectively, were almost completely reduced by pretreatment with atropine, prazosin and metoprolol. The relative proportions of glycoproteins secreted into the oral cavity from secretory cells of the three major glands varied significantly with the nature of the stimulant. PMID- 2519304 TI - Taste effectiveness of glutamate compounds with different cations in rat. AB - A role of a cation of glutamate compounds for their taste has not been well elucidated yet. In this experiment, the difference of taste quality of glutamate compounds which have a different cation was compared to reveal the role of cations in the glutamate compounds on their characteristics of taste. Monosodium L-glutamate (MSG), monopotassium glutamate (MPG) and monocalcium glutamate (MCG) were used. The preference test in rats revealed that the rate of drinking volume per day was not statistically different among MSG, MPG and MCG. In the next experiment, the conditioned taste aversion test was performed in rats, and rats were conditioned to hate to drink MSG, MPG and MCG respectively by pairing the intraperitoneal injection of LiCl. In the MSG conditioned animals, the drinking rate of MSG decreased, and that of MPG significantly increased, but that of MCG did not change. In the MPG conditioned animals, drinking rate of MPG was strongly depressed, but that of MCG tended to increase, and that of MSG did not change at all. In the MCG conditioned animals, the drinking rate of MCG decreased, but MSG and MPG did not change. The chorda tympani responses to 0.1 M MSG applied to the tongue surface was larger than those to 0.1 M MCG, and the responses to 0.1 M MPG were the smallest out of these three glutamate compounds. The nerve responses of the glossopharyngeal nerve to MSG, MCG and MPG were very similar to each other.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2519306 TI - An electron-microscopic observation on the collagen fibril arrangement in the outermost layer of dog dentine as revealed by tangential sections. AB - In the forming initial dentine, each odontoblast extended a thick process perpendicularly to the basal lamina, and the collagen fibrils formed were divided into two groups based on their orientation. One was a group of fibrils running parallel to an odontoblastic process to organize the peri-process fibril bundles to organize the inter-process fibril bundles. This pattern of fibril orientation was similar in both crown and root. The diameter of each collagen fibril ranged from 30-100 nm in the crown and from 30-180 nm in the root. PMID- 2519305 TI - The relation between phenytoin-receptor and glucocorticoid in the induction of cleft palate with phenytoin in mice. AB - Both phenytoin (PHT) and glucocorticoid (GC) have been reported to be an effective teratogen for the production of cleft palate. The authors suggest the possibility that a part of GC-receptor to which PHT competitively bind (common receptor with PHT), participate in the production of cleft palate. In the present study, as one of the studies for the elucidation of the mechanism of cleft palate induction with PHT, we investigated the PHT-receptors and its relation with GC in the lung tissue of mice, which were either sensitive (CF1) or resistant (C57BL/6) to PHT or GC. Scatchard analysis of the specific binding of 14C-PHT to the cytosol protein revealed that the total capacity of PHT-receptor for CF1 (1,571 fmole/mg protein) was much greater than that for C57BL/6 (994 fmole/mg). The value of the Kd's for these strains, however, were 18.1 and 16.5 nM, respectively, indicating the absence of any great difference between both strains. The capacity of the common receptors with GC for CF1 (236 fmole/mg) was greater than that for C57BL/6 (126 fmole/mg). But, the value of the Kd's for these strains were 5.4 and 3.1 nM, respectively, indicating the absence of a great difference between the strains. The analysis indicated that the lung tissue cytosols of both strains also contain the proper receptor for PHT, which is in a much greater amount than that of the common receptor.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2519307 TI - Hemopoietic function in rats with carcinomatous anemia. PMID- 2519308 TI - Red blood cell phagocytosis in the reticuloendothelial system in rats with carcinomatous anemia. PMID- 2519309 TI - Excitability changes in the slowly adapting periodontal mechanoreceptor accompanying subliminal mechanical stimulation to the tooth in the cat. PMID- 2519310 TI - Responses of inferior salivatory nucleus neurons to stimulation of chorda tympani nerve in the cat. PMID- 2519311 TI - Effects of mechanical stimulation of the tongue and electrical stimulation of the glossopharyngeal nerve on the activity of the infrahyoid muscles in the bullfrog, Rana catesbeiana. PMID- 2519312 TI - Patterns of epithelial proliferation revealed by intraperitoneal administration of bromodeoxyuridine during buccal pouch carcinogenesis in hamsters. PMID- 2519313 TI - Effects of sialoadenectomy of the submandibular or sublingual glands on the body growth of the rat. PMID- 2519315 TI - The sequelae of induced abortion. PMID- 2519316 TI - Nicardipine: another calcium antagonist. PMID- 2519314 TI - Management of hyperlipidaemia: the Helsinki Heart Study. PMID- 2519318 TI - An oestrogen patch for hormone replacement therapy. PMID- 2519317 TI - Scopoderm: transdermal hyoscine for motion sickness. PMID- 2519319 TI - Selegiline for parkinsonism--an update. PMID- 2519320 TI - Lilly computer software trial judged promotional and discreditable. PMID- 2519321 TI - Using human growth hormone (somatropin). PMID- 2519322 TI - Mupirocin nasal ointment. PMID- 2519323 TI - Alteplase and anistreplase in acute myocardial infarction. PMID- 2519324 TI - Gemeprost for second-trimester termination of pregnancy. PMID- 2519325 TI - [Are there limits to medical secrets?]. PMID- 2519327 TI - [Palindromic rheumatism]. AB - 49 cases of palindromic rheumatism with a follow-up of 25 years, are reported. More than half of the patients (58%) had their first symptoms between the age of 20 and 39. The knee was the joint the most frequently affected. Five patients had later a rheumatoid arthritis, one had a psoriatic rheumatism, one a cutaneous vasculitis and one had a sero-negative spondylarthropathy. Two patients were completely cured. PMID- 2519328 TI - Pediatric mortality: an avoidable tragedy. AB - The article analyzes the causes of pediatric mortality. One thousand deaths secondary to medical diseases and conditions that occurred at the American University of Beirut Medical Center during 8 years are reviewed. Many deaths could have been avoided. Recommendations are made. PMID- 2519326 TI - Unstable angina. An update for the clinician. PMID- 2519329 TI - [Importance of peptide C determination in diabetes]. AB - The peptide C, polypeptide secreted by the pancreas at the same time as insulin, presents a great interest in the evaluation of diabetic patients. First it allows a differentiation between insulin dependent diabetes (IDD) and non insulin dependent (NDD). A low and non stimulated levels of peptide C signifies an insulin dependence. Within the group of IDD patients the peptide C was low when the diabetes was discovered at a younger age and its secretion diminished as the diabetes progresses. The peptide C has also a prognostic interest in IDD. Low and non stimulable levels of peptide C signifies a difficult control of diabetes which needs two injections per day while high and stimulable levels will be seen in diabetes easy to control with one injection of insulin. Finally, values of peptide C does not permit to predict the onset of diabetic complications (retinopathy, acidocetosis) as well as the control of patients. PMID- 2519330 TI - Developing a curriculum for the Lebanese physician. PMID- 2519331 TI - Infective endocarditis in children. A seven-year experience. AB - Eighteen children with infective endocarditis were detected over seven years. Fever, gastrointestinal and chest symptoms were striking features. Anaemia, elevated leukocyte count and sedimentation rate were constant laboratory findings. Strep. Viridans and Staph. Aureus were the commonest organisms isolated. We concluded that rheumatic and congenital heart disease are equally important in predisposition to infective endocarditis. PMID- 2519332 TI - The incidence of congenital abnormalities of the kidney and urogenital system in Lebanon. AB - In an attempt to define the incidence of congenital abnormalities of the kidney and urogenital system in Lebanon, 37,500 consecutive hospital records of newborn infant delivered at the American University of Beirut Medical Center from 1975 to 1985 were reviewed. The study revealed 6.32 abnormalities per 1000 newborns. These figures are lower than those reported in the literature, because of the very small number of autopsies performed in this country. A prospective, cooperative study by major nurseries in the country, performing fetal ultrasonography on every at-risk pregnancy, and the performance of more autopsies are needed to come out with more accurate figures on the incidence of these abnormalities in Lebanon. Early detection of congenital abnormalities of the kidney and urinary tract is of vital importance to institute early treatment to decrease the occurrence of end-stage renal disease. PMID- 2519333 TI - Seroepidemiology of the human immunodeficiency virus in Lebanon. Preliminary evaluation. AB - In order to evaluate the prevalence of infection with the human immunodeficiency virus in Lebanon, serologic studies were performed in a group of 1406 individuals, of whom 397 belonged to high risk groups. There were 7 seropositive individuals in the high risk population. One additional patient who was known to have the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome was also positive. It appeared that among these eight persons, the virus was acquired either through sexual activity outside Lebanon or through transfusion of foreign blood products. PMID- 2519334 TI - [Asymptomatic cholelithiasis. When is a cholecystectomy justified?]. AB - Since the introduction of routine abdominal echography, silent gallstone has become a major medical concern. The management of a patient with silent gallstone, is very controversed, and routine cholecystectomy is not always beneficial. Aged and high operative risk patients, should be treated conservatively. Literature review can identify subgroups of patients in whom cholecystectomy is justified: patients with micro or macro-lithiasis, patients in whom oral cholecystography reveals multiple floating stones, dyskinectic, not opacified or calcified gallbladder, and patients receiving general anesthesia for other reasons than gallbladder disease. PMID- 2519335 TI - [What should you know about aspirin?]. PMID- 2519336 TI - [Medicinal plants of Lebanon]. PMID- 2519337 TI - [Interview with Professor Bechara Saad (Promotion 1920)]. PMID- 2519338 TI - Two of the earliest roentgenograms taken in Lebanon. PMID- 2519339 TI - Clinical and serological study of the human immunodeficiency virus infection in a cohort of multitransfused persons. AB - A group of 64 multitransfused individuals with hemophilia or congenital hemolytic anemias were tested for antibodies against the human immunodeficiency virus. Thirty five of them were also evaluated clinically and their blood products supply was investigated. Only four hemophiliacs were found to be seropositive. The major risk factor that seemed associated with the acquisition of the virus was the transfusion of lyophilized factor VIII concentrate imported from the USA. A suggestion for control of transfusion associated infection and of contamination of hemophiliacs is presented. PMID- 2519340 TI - Eicosanoids and airway smooth muscle. PMID- 2519341 TI - Models and markers used to study cardiac reperfusion injury. PMID- 2519342 TI - Asparagine-linked oligosaccharides and tumor metastasis. PMID- 2519343 TI - Genetic factors influencing the metabolism of tolbutamide. PMID- 2519344 TI - The uses and limitations of calmodulin antagonists. PMID- 2519345 TI - Superoxide dismutase: its role in xenobiotic detoxification. AB - Since the discovery of superoxide dismutase in 1969, the role of this enzyme in modulating cellular toxicity of superoxide has been well established. Experimentally, cellular damage from compounds or exposures which produce superoxide extracellularly can be prevented or modified by pretreating a cell or organ system with SOD. Likewise, induction of intracellular SOD by exposing the cell system to various types of nonlethal stress will impart resistance or tolerance to further exposures to oxidant and nonoxidant stresses which would normally be toxic. The differences in intracellular SOD activity based on species, age, and organ variability can have a major impact on the interpretation of toxicology data, particularly extrapolation to human toxicology. An awareness of the importance of SOD to the toxicity of xenobiotics which produce superoxide, either directly or indirectly, will enable those conducting toxicology studies to better understand and interpret their results. PMID- 2519346 TI - Catalase: its role in xenobiotic detoxification. AB - Catalase activity is found primarily in peroxisomes although in some species and in some organ systems, cytosolic catalase also may be involved in intracellular oxidant stress protection. Toxicology studies with repeat exposures to xenobiotics producing hydrogen peroxide either directly or indirectly generally indicate that the organisms develop resistance to the toxin (adaptation). This adaptation would result from induction of catalase activity in most target organs. The induction of hepatic peroxisomes accompanied by less than compensatory increase in catalase activity is now recognized as suggesting a potential for hepatotoxic and hepatocarcinogenic effects. Although these effects seem to also require mobilization of fatty acids, it is not clear if such mobilization is an absolute requirement. As would be expected, there are great differences among species in catalase activity thus making animal-human extrapolations difficult. Finally, with the exception of premature and neonatal animals, age-related variations in catalase activity do not seem to be large enough to have toxicological relevance. However, in old animals, their apparent inability to replace lost catalase activity after repeated stress may have major significance in explaining observed young-old differences in toxicity resulting from oxidant stress. PMID- 2519347 TI - Biological and chemical properties of the hemoregulatory peptide and possibilities for clinical applications. PMID- 2519348 TI - Immunological aspects of diabetes mellitus: prospects for pharmacological modification. AB - It is now well known that insulin-dependent diabetes is a chronic progressive autoimmune disease. The prolonged prediabetic phase of progressive beta-cell dysfunction is associated with immunological abnormalities. A prediabetic period is suggested by the appearance of islet cell antibodies, anti-insulin antibodies, and anti-insulin receptor antibodies. The existence of activated T lymphocytes and abnormal T cell subsets are also other markers. There is still no concensus about the use of the immunosuppression superimposed upon conventional insulin therapy in early diagnosed IDDM and the follow-up of the relatives of IDDM patients who share the genetic predisposition and serological markers for the risk of future onset of IDDM. Treatment in the prodromal period cannot be justified because a link between the disease and early markers such as ICA has not been established with certainty (Diabetes Research Program NIH, 1983). Many immunopharmacological manipulations were reported to be effective in animal models. However, most of them are not readily applied to human subjects. Moreover, IDDM patients are now believed to be heterogeneous, with a complex genetic background. HLA-DR, and more recently DQ, are closely related to the genetic predisposition to IDDM but those genes are not themselves diabetogenic. The contribution of autoimmunity does not appear to be uniform, and in some cases, the contribution of virus is considered more important. There is a lack of a marker for the future onset of IDDM. ICA and ICSA were found after mumps infection, but the existence of those autoantibodies and even the co-existence of HLA-DR3 do not always indicate the future trend to insulin dependency. More precise markers will be disclosed through the biochemical analysis of the target antigens on pancreatic beta-cell for islet antibodies and effector T cells. Much safer and more effective immunopharmacological treatment will be developed through animal experimentation using rat and mouse models. The recent development and interest in this field will further facilitate the attainment of the goal for the complete prevention of IDDM. PMID- 2519349 TI - Intestinal drug absorption enhancement: an overview. PMID- 2519350 TI - Nifedipine: variability in its kinetics and metabolism in man. PMID- 2519352 TI - [Normal term placentae: type of collagen and its disposition around fetal blood vessels detected with the Picro sirius technique]. AB - The chorionic villi tissue of normal term human placentae is made of a highly fibrous extracellular matrix. An increasing amount of fibrous tissue is seen as gestation advances, phenomenon referred as organ aging. Electron microscopy reveals many collagen fibrils close to fibroblasts between the trophoblast and the fetal capillary vessels. A characteristic 67 nm transverse striation produced by the intermixing of tropocollagen and collagen types 1 and 3 is observed. Picrosirius staining under polarized light allowed us to detect abundant type 1 collagen fibers. These were randomly distributed in the stroma but concentrically order around the blood vessels. PMID- 2519351 TI - [Serum lipids, HDL2 and HDL3 cholesterol and apolipoproteins A1 and B as predictors of coronary artery disease diagnosed by coronarography]. AB - Serum levels of total, HDL2 and HDL3 cholesterol, triglycerides and apolipoproteins A1 and B were compared in 100 Chilean males with (n = 80) or without (n = 20) coronary artery disease (CAD). The presence and severity of CAD was determined by an angiographic score. Discriminating power, sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive value for CAD were calculated for all variables. As an isolated factor, total cholesterol had the greatest discriminating power (p less than 0.002): 21% of patients with CAD had cholesterol levels below 200 mg/dl while no patient with cholesterol over 275 mg/dl was free of disease. Even though all cases with HDL cholesterol below 25 mg/dl belonged in the CAD group, this factor had no overall discriminating power. Total cholesterol/HDL cholesterol ratio had the greatest discriminating power (p less than 0.001) while total/HDL2 cholesterol had the best positive predictive value. PMID- 2519353 TI - [Mitral commisurotomy in extracorporeal circulation: long term follow-up with clinical and hemodynamic control]. AB - We reviewed the clinical and hemodynamic findings in 52 patients undergoing open mitral commisurotomy. 85% were female and the mean age was 31 + 9 years. Before operation 21% were in functional class II, 73% in class III and 56% in class IV. Pure mitral stenosis was found in 61% and congestive heart failure in 42%. The mitral valve area was less than 1 cm2 in 61%, the wedge pressure over 25 mmHg in 59% and the pulmonary artery systolic pressure over 50 mmHg in 59%. There was no operative morbidity in 79% of cases. Operative mortality was 2% (1 patient). All survivors were followed for a mean of 40 + 26 months. At the final visit 79% were improved in their functional class and only 13% remained in heart failure. The mitral valve area increased from 0.98 + 0.26 to 1.5 + 0.48 cm2. Pulmonary wedge pressure was under 25 mmHg in 79% and pulmonary artery systolic pressure under 50 mmHg in 73%. We conclude that open mitral commisurotomy offers a low morbidity and mortality and good longterm results for the treatment of mitral stenosis. PMID- 2519354 TI - [Value of 2-dimensional echocardiography in infective endocarditis]. AB - We analyzed the two dimensional echocardiograms (2D echo) of 41 patients with infective endocarditis (IE). The diagnosis of endocarditis was based on typical clinical findings, positive blood cultures or anatomical findings at operation or necropsy. Age ranged from 21 to 73 years. Endocarditis was localized in a native valve in 30 patients (aortic 18, mitral 11 and tricuspid 1), a biologic prosthesis in 9 (mitral 4, aortic 4, unknown 1) and a mechanical valve in 4 (aortic 3, mitral 1). The echocardiogram showed vegetations, valve rupture or abscess in 83% of IE in native valves, 56% of IE in biologic prosthesis and 25% of IE in mechanical valves (p less than 0.05, native vs prosthetic valves). The sensitivity of 2D echo was studied in 27 subjects with known anatomical findings. It was 79% for vegetations (mitral 91%, aortic 72%, NS), 53% for valve rupture (mitral 83%, aortic 33%, p less than 0.05) and 70% for abscess. Specificity was over 89% for all lesions. Systemic embolism occurred in 41% of patients with vegetations and in 25% of those without (p = 0.07). PMID- 2519355 TI - [Multiple sclerosis in health care in our country: electrophysiological, immunological and clinical analysis]. AB - Among 70 patients referred for suspected multiple sclerosis (MS) a total of 40 met criteria for definite (17), likely (12) or possible (11) diagnosis of the disease. Visual evoked potentials provided evidence of CNS lesion in 13 cases. Abnormalities of somatosensory evoked potentials, particularly on stimulation of the posterior tibial nerve, were present in 90% of patients. Brainstem auditory evoked potentials were of little use, contributing to diagnosis of one subclinical lesion; they were normal in 14 cases with suspected brainstem involvement. A definite diagnosis of MS was made in 4 cases by study of oligoclonal bands. The most frequently involved sites were the optic nerve and the brainstem, followed by the spinal cord. Hemispheral location was demonstrated in only 3 cases. These findings of the first study on MS in our country suggest a different pattern for demyelinating diseases in Chile. PMID- 2519356 TI - [Nuclear magnetic resonance in the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. A critical review of the literature]. AB - Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) has been proposed to be the best diagnostic test for multiple sclerosis (MS). We performed a critical analysis of 13 papers evaluating the use of NMR in MS. Out of an ideal 17 criteria for validation and reproducibility, a top of 11 (65%) was the maximum found. Foremost deficiencies were a lack of blind analysis and inadequate patient samples. Thus the claim that NMR is the diagnostic tool of choice in MS remains to be proven. PMID- 2519357 TI - [Anal neoplasms. Treatment with radiotherapy and exclusive chemotherapy]. AB - We report preliminary results on treatment of anal carcinoma by radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Nine patients (mean age 64, 6 females) were treated with 5 fluorouracil and mitomycin C intravenously, associated to radiotherapy (3000 rads in 10 days). The lesion was located in the anal canal in 4 patients and at the anal margin in 5. Good response was observed in every patient with no evidence of recurrence during a 2 to 30 month follow up period (median 16). A greater number of patients and a longer follow up period is required to establish this as a valid alternative to abdomino-perineal surgery for the treatment of anal carcinoma. PMID- 2519358 TI - [Infection in severe neutropenia: analysis of 140 episodes]. AB - We analyzed infections complicating 140 episodes of severe neutropenia in 86 patients. The underlying diagnosis was acute leukemia in 64, lymphoma in 12 and isolated cases of bone marrow aplasia, agranulocytosis, dysmyelopoiesis and solid tumors. No fever developed in 35 (25%) episodes. No cause for the fever was identified in 40% of the remaining episodes. Clinical evidence of an infection was present in 20%, with positive bacteriologic findings in 27%. Respiratory infection (16%), pneumonia (11%) and sepsis (10%) were the most common infectious processes. Infectious agents isolated were gram negative bacilli (72%), gram positive cocci (19%) and fungi (9%). The association of amikacin and carbenicillin or cephalosporins proved to be superior to gentamycin-penicillin (p less than 0.01). 16 patients died for an overall mortality of 11%. Pneumonia and infection by K pneumoniae or C albicans were associated to a poorer prognosis. PMID- 2519359 TI - [Piroxicam and fentiazac do not change the arterial pressure in hypertensives patients undergoing treatment]. AB - We evaluated the effects of piroxicam (n = 20) or fentiazac (n = 11) in 31 hypertensive patients whose blood pressure had been controlled by treatment with propranolol, celiprolol or nifedipine, with or without associated diuretic therapy. No significant change in blood pressure was observed from pretreatment levels during or after a 4 week therapy with these drugs. We conclude that fentiazac and piroxicam do not interfere with an adequate control of high blood pressure in hypertensive patients responding to conventional therapy. PMID- 2519360 TI - [Rapidly progressing glomerulonephritis secondary to IgA nephropathy. A clinical case]. AB - We report the case of a woman with rapidly progressive IgA nephropathy. She was treated with pulse methylprednisolone sodium succinate (1 g/d for three days), cyclophosphamide, dipyridamole and aspirin. The rapid progression of renal failure was apparently halted after 6 months. PMID- 2519361 TI - [Cecal pseudotumoral endometriosis: a rare cause of massive lower digestive hemorrhage. A clinical case]. AB - A 45 year old female, with massive intestinal bleeding was subjected to barium enema disclosing a large lobulated mass in the caecum. A right hemicolectomy was performed. Gross pathological examination showed an infiltrative lesion of the caecum with superficial mucosal ulcerations. Histologically the cecal wall was studded with endometrial implants penetrating to the submucosal layer. No invasion of the mucosa was demonstrated. Recovery was uneventful. After 1 year of follow up the patient remain asymptomatic. PMID- 2519362 TI - [Perirenal urine leak in urethral lithiasis]. AB - We report 3 patients who developed perirenal urine leak proven by ultrasonography and intravenous pyelogram during an episode of renal cholic. Abdominal pain and peritoneal signs were present in all cases. Small distal urethral stones and slight pyelourethral dilatation were present in these patients. The clinical course was benign in all of them. PMID- 2519363 TI - [Controversy and reforms about the health system in Chile]. AB - A worrying stabilization of infant mortality (19/1000) and maternal mortality (0.5/1000) rates has been observed in the last few years in Chile. The well known decrease in mortality from cardiovascular disease and cancer observed in developed countries has not taken place in Chile. An unacceptable 40% of people coming electively to peripheral clinics cannot get medical care and must seek attention in the emergency services. This deterioration of medical care to the Chilean population can be related to a cutback in national funds allocated to the public health system. The development of a private insurance system (ISAPRES) and the turnover of peripheral clinics to local government authorities has not been able to compensate for this. As a consequence an increasing discrimination of the quality of health care between the poor and rich sectors of the population has emerged. The wealthiest 10% of the population is consuming over 1/3 of the health resources. Poor districts are not able to provide the minimum to cover for medicines, vaccines and wage replacements during illness. The private sector spends 20% in administration and has not contributed to build new hospitals or to increase the number of beds available in the country. A significant modification of the current situation is urgently needed. PMID- 2519364 TI - [Immunization in adults and post-exposure prophylaxis]. AB - A general review of vaccines is presented. The available vaccines, their composition, route and dose recommendations and side effects are discussed. Underutilization of vaccines in the adult population is the rule. Vaccines of potential use in adults are presented. The susceptibility of adults to tetanus and the need for periodic booster immunization is stressed. A detailed discussion of the role of influenza, typhoid, pneumococcal and hepatitis B vaccination is included. Post exposure prophylaxis for vaccine preventable diseases and hepatitis A is reviewed. A different dose scheduled is recommended for vaccination against rabies with a locally manufactured product. A simplified recommendation for tetanus prophylaxis in the adult population is presented. PMID- 2519365 TI - [Active forms of oxygen and glomerular diseases]. PMID- 2519366 TI - [Isolation of Campylobacter pylori from gastric biopsies in people from the south of Chile]. PMID- 2519367 TI - [Years of life lost according to causes of death in Chile: 1981-1983]. AB - An estimated total of 811,037 years of life were lost for persons between 28 days and 64 years of age in Chile from 1981 to 1983. 63% correspond to males. Main causes of death accounting for these figures include non accidental violent death (15.6%), accidental death (13.4%), pneumonia and influenza (9.9%), tumors (7.5%) and cirrhosis of the liver (5.6%). Almost 50% of the loss occurred in the 28 day to 11 month and the 25 to 44 year age groups. Regional variation, from a minimum of 5895 years of life lost for 100,000 persons in Arica to 9,640 in Bio-Bio. PMID- 2519369 TI - [Biological aspects of aging]. PMID- 2519368 TI - [The National Museum of Medicine (II). The Republican period (1831-1891)]. AB - This paper deals with the historic aspects of the XIXth century section of the Museum. Pictures, documents, objects and instruments of physicians at that time are displayed. This is the time of birth and development of Medical Education in Chile, with the creation of the School of Medicine (1833) and the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Chile (1843). New hospitals (Salvador, San Vicente and San Jose) were founded around 1872. The first Faculty members came from Spain, England, France and Germany, and were joined by some Chilean professionals. The new School of Medicine Building was inaugurated in 1889 and the Bureau of Public Health created at that time. The first Chilean physicians to obtain fellowships around 1874 brought the specific and technological advances found in Europe. PMID- 2519371 TI - [A morphologic study of 103 kidneys donated for renal transplantation]. AB - Samples from 103 kidneys donated for transplant were studied under light microscopy (LM), electron microscopy (EM) and immunofluorescence (IM, with C3, C4, C1q, IgG, IgA, IGE, IgM and antifibrin) just before transplantation. Seven kidneys were obtained from a cadaver (CK). Glomerular damage attributed to perfusion (perfusion glomerulopathy) was present in 4 cases. Glomerular changes in apparently healthy donors were present in 33% of cases: minor glomerular lesions, such as type I collagen fibers in the mesangial matrix (3 cases); uniform widening of the basal membrane without prior evidence of diabetes (4); relative glomerular ischemia with basal membrane irregularities (9). Major lesions were found in 17.5% of kidneys: IgA mesangial deposits compatible with Berger's disease (9, including 2 pairs of siblings); dense mesangial deposits suggesting the same process (6); subacute bacterial endocarditis glomerulopathy with IgG++, C1q+ and IgM+ (1, a CK); a type I mesangio-capillary glomerulonephritis with C3++, IgG++, IgA+ and IgM+ (1); subpedicelar and transmembranous isolated glomerular deposits of the immune complex type (1, complicated with microhematuria after donation). None of these glomerulopathies was demonstrated by LM, hence the use of EM and IM is essential for diagnosis. PMID- 2519370 TI - [Genetic polymorphism of isoniazid acetylation in Chilean patients with tuberculosis]. AB - We studied genetic polymorphism of isoniazid acetylation in 47 tuberculous patients treated with 4 drugs between Aug 1987 and Dec 1988. Inactivation of isoniazid was estimated from urine samples after administration of the drug (10 mg/kg). There were 18 slow and 29 fast acetylators. The frequency of the slow mutant gene was estimated at 0.612, which is intermediate between values found in american natives (0.46) and western europeans (0.73). No associations of the presence of slow gene with sex, ABO group, ancestors, socioeconomic level, undernutrition, alcoholism or tobacco consumption were found. PMID- 2519372 TI - [Rhabdomyolysis caused by severe sepsis: discussion on its role in the development of acute renal failure]. AB - Rhabdomyolysis was evaluated by measurement of total creatine kinase (CK) and lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) in 19 patients with severe sepsis; 12 developed acute renal failure (Group B) and 7 did not (Group A). Results were compared to 7 patients with trauma (Group C) and 6 patients with chronic renal failure and minor infections (Group D). CK was higher (p less than 0.005) in Group B than in A. Results in Group C were similar to those in A. Elevation of CK correlated to increases in creatinine (r = 0.655, p less than 0.005). CK levels of Group D patients were lower than those of Group B. Blood pressure, lactate and pO2 were similar in both groups but thrombopenia was noted in Group B patients. Our results suggest that rhabdomyolysis and thrombopenia play a role in the development of renal failure in patients with severe sepsis. PMID- 2519373 TI - [Severity evaluation system: APACHE II, SAPS. National experience in a unit of medical intensive therapy]. AB - We evaluated 2 new prognostic indices, APACHE II and SAPS, in 533 consecutive patients admitted to a general hospital clinical care unit. Mortality was 19.5% (13.1% in the ICU). Among non-survivors 80% had a greater than = 20 APACHE II score and 77% a greater than = 13 SAPS score. Only 2% of patients with APACHE score less than 10 or SAPS less than 7 died. A good correlation with previously used indices (APACHE I and TISS) was 0.6. Utilization of these prognostic indices allows comparison of reports from different centers, evaluation of early and long term prognosis and a help in making cost-benefit decisions. PMID- 2519374 TI - [Adenosine deaminase activity in peritoneal tuberculosis]. AB - We performed a prospective study including cytochemical, bacteriologic and pathologic observations in 25 patients with ascites of different causes. Activity of adenosine deaminase in ascitic fluid was higher in tuberculous (103 +/- 61 mu/l) than in neoplastic (16 +/- 8), inflammatory (16 +/- 13) and portal hypertension (15 +/- 6) etiologies (p less than 0.05). Inflammatory cases included patients with lupus and spontaneous peritonitis. Activity of adenosine deaminase was higher in every patient with tuberculosis than in any other patient. Thus, a high sensitivity and specificity of this test in the diagnosis of tuberculous peritonitis is confirmed. PMID- 2519375 TI - [Intermittent peritoneal chronic dialysis in diabetic patients: effect of the technique on blood glucose and protein loss during the procedure]. AB - We performed a prospective study in 4 diabetic (one insulin dependent) patients with end stage chronic renal disease, in whom intermittent peritoneal dialysis was performed with and without addition of insulin to the dialysate. Plasma levels of glucose and insulin were compared to those obtained in 5 non-diabetic controls. With no insulin added, absolute changes in glucose and insulin from predialysis levels were similar in diabetics and non-diabetics. The addition of insulin to the dialysate did not modify nitrogen losses through the peritoneal membrane. The absorption of glucose from the dialysate fluid in the presence of insulin was greater in diabetics than in non-diabetic patients (p less than 0.01). PMID- 2519376 TI - [Diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux by radioisotopic techniques]. AB - We evaluated 148 patients (mean age 45 years) with clinically evident gastroesophageal reflux. A radioisotopic test with 99mTc sulphur-colloid was performed in all; endoscopy in 146, biopsy in 24, acid reflux test and manometric evaluation in 141 and radiologic studies in 85. Sensitivity of the different techniques was: radioisotopes 92%, radiology 87%, acid reflux test 84%; endoscopy 63% and manometric studies 61%. Severity of reflux and esophagitis was adequately predicted from radioisotopic evaluation. We conclude that this radioisotopic test is highly reliable for the diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux. PMID- 2519377 TI - [Intraventricular conduction disorders in acute myocardial infarction: early and late clinical significance]. AB - The prognostic impact of new bundle branch block (BBB) upon the intra hospital course and long-term prognosis of patients with acute myocardial infarction (MI) was studied in 517 consecutive patients with a recent MI: 449 patients did not have BBB (group I) and 69 developed a new BBB (group II). Age and sex were similar in both groups. Incidence of BBB among patients with anterior wall MI was 61% compared to 8% in patients with inferior wall MI (p less than 0.05). The distribution of RBBB, RBBB + left anterior hemiblock and LBBB was 32%, 30% and 38% among 46 patients with anterior wall MI, compared to 28%, 6% and 68% among 18 patients with inferior wall MI (p less than 0.05). The level of peak CK values (2345 vs 1437 IU/l), presence of Killip grade III or IV (56 vs 18%), complete A-V block (24 vs 6%) and mortality (34 vs 9%) were significantly higher in group II (p less than 0.05). Long-term mortality at 1 and 5 years of follow up was 29% and 51% in group II patients, a three fold increase over group I. We conclude that development of new BBB during myocardial infarction is associated with a poor immediate and long term prognosis. This may be related to larger infarcts rather than the conduction defect itself. PMID- 2519378 TI - [One hour xylose test blood in the diagnosis of celiac disease]. AB - Plasma levels of d-xylose one hr after a standard 5 g oral dose were measured in 82 children suspected of having celiac disease. Duodenal mucosa was obtained by intestinal biopsy in all. Among patients with normal mucosa, 95% had xylose levels above 20 mg/dl; 100% of patients with a flat mucosa had levels under 20 mg/dl. Results were independent of patients age. We conclude that this is a reliable test to screen patients suspected of having celiac disease, prior to intestinal biopsy. PMID- 2519379 TI - [Central pontine myelinolysis, associated with hyperglycemia and hyponatremia: a clinical case]. AB - A 68 year old diabetic male was admitted with hyponatremia and developed a "deafferentiation" syndrome. Central pontine myelinolysis was suspected after clinical, EEG and brain CAT scan. The diagnosis was confirmed at necropsy. The pathogenesis, clinical manifestations and treatment of this disorder are discussed. PMID- 2519380 TI - [Ectopic or migrating spleen and supernumerary spleens: detection and identification with 99mTc, 51Cr and 113In radioisotopes]. AB - Congenital malformations of the spleen are rare. We report a patient with an ectopic spleen located in the left iliac fossa, which was excised in order to prevent severe complications such as torsion of the pedicle, rupture or infection. A second patient with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura presented with an accessory spleen located retroperitoneally. Removal of this spleen following removal of the normotopic one resulted in cure of purpura. The clinical, radiological and radioisotopic studies used to locate and identify these malformations are described. PMID- 2519381 TI - [Glomerular lesions and renal transplant]. AB - Organ transplantation represents a revolutionary advance of Medicine in the XXth Century. However, a significant problem of renal transplantation is the development of silent glomerular lesions in the kidney from live related donor. The longterm outcome of these organs as well as that of the remaining kidney in the donor are uncertain. Most lesions correspond to mesangial deposits of IgA, a process with known familial incidence. A careful selection of donor is indicated for transplantation of patients with familial forms of nephropathy. Also, renal biopsy of the potential donor may be a necessary step for timely diagnosis of this serious problem. PMID- 2519382 TI - [Cardiopulmonary resuscitation]. AB - Cardiopulmonary resuscitation has been used for over 25 years. Recent developments related to a better understanding of the physiology of external massage and to the effect of drugs such as calcium and bicarbonate during cardiac arrest have improved the results of cardiopulmonary resuscitation. PMID- 2519384 TI - [Enterotoxigenic Staphylococcus aureus and thermonuclease: risk indicators of staphylococcal poisoning with milk products]. AB - We examined 159 samples of milk and milk products for staphylococcal count and presence of thermonuclease. Highest count for S aureus was found in cheese, followed by raw milk. Enterotoxins, mostly A and D, were found in 32% of 34 S aureus strains isolated from cheese and milk. Thermonuclease was detected in dried milk and cheese. Identification of this enzyme is a good method to evaluate risk of food poisoning from S aureus contamination. PMID- 2519383 TI - [Difficulties in the diagnosis of dementia]. AB - We evaluated 125 ambulatory patients with a clinical syndrome of dementia. About half of them met criteria for diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease; vascular disorders and other etiologies were less prevalent. Among 176 patients with initially suspected Alzheimer's disease, this diagnosis was confirmed by clinical findings and follow up in 70%. Psychiatric disorders were responsible for the syndrome in 20%, other etiologies were less frequent. In the absence of specific markers for Alzheimer's disease this diagnosis should be established only after careful clinical studies and follow up. No clear limits between Alzheimer's disease and functional cerebral loss from aging can be defined at this time. PMID- 2519385 TI - [Chilean medicine during the government of President Balmaceda]. AB - This is a conference dictated on the occasion of the centennial of the First Chilean Medical Congress, the foundation of the first Public Health Council and the School of Medicine of the University of Chile (1889). During the government of president Balmaceda, prominent Chilean physicians and University professors were closely linked to the presidency, often in public office or Congress. The conditions were then created for an accelerated development of many aspects of Chilean Medicine, including the construction of 20 general hospitals nationwide, and major sanitary advances. Medical education was greatly improved by changes in curriculum following the European tradition. At the first Chilean Medical Congress, plans for a national policy for public health protection were elaborated. After 100 years, the action of such founders of Chilean Medicine can only be nostalgically admired. PMID- 2519386 TI - [The Revista Medica de Chile: 100 years ago]. AB - Jose Joaquin Aguirre MD (1822-1901) was elected Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile in 1867. He served for 13 years. A professor of Surgery and Anatomy he was the fifth Dean of the Faculty and the first President of the Medical Society of Santiago (1869). In 1889 he became Rector of the University of Chile, the first physician to occupy this high position. PMID- 2519387 TI - [Concept and scope of internal medicine]. PMID- 2519388 TI - [Hemodialysis and urea kinetics: an elementary computational program]. PMID- 2519390 TI - [Potential difference of the gastric mucosa in gastroduodenal disease. Relation with endoscopical and histologic findings]. AB - Most studies of gastric transmucosal potential difference concern acute damage. We studied this phenomenon in 168 patients with different pathologic processes: erosive gastritis, duodenal and prepyloric ulcer, atrophic gastritis, gastric ulcer and normal controls. Ag-AgCl electrodes and Agar-KCl bridges were used to record potential differences. Biopsies were taken from gastric antrum and body and potential differences were related to endoscopic and histologic findings. Maximal values of -29.2 + 2 and -22.2 + 1.6 for body and antrum, respectively, were found in normals. Lowest values (-19.4 + 1.4 and -14.3 + 1.5, respectively) were found in gastric ulcer, with intermediate values for the other conditions. Normal histologic findings were associated to potentials of -31 + 2 and -20 + 3.1 whereas lower values were recorded in patients with moderate or severe atrophic changes. Our findings suggest a relation between mucosal atrophy and lower transmucosal potential differences. PMID- 2519389 TI - [Thyroid microsomal autoantibodies in thyroid disease: their value as an antigenic marker]. AB - An autoimmune disease can be the cause of thyroid disfunction. Determination of autoantibodies titers is the best way of demonstrating its existence. We studied 172 thyroid patients (146 females, 26 males) with ages ranging from 15 to 81 years. Thyroid microsomal autoantibodies (TMA) were detected by a modified agglutination test (SERA-TEK kit, Ames Div); a dilution greater than or equal to 1/1600 was considered as diagnostic of autoimmune disease. Patients were classified according to morphological and functional status in 3 groups: GI = non toxic goiter, n = 98 (71 diffuse, 20 multi and 7 uninodular); GII = toxic goiter, n = 62 (52 diffuse, 4 multi, 2 uninodular and 4 subacute thyroiditis); G III = hypothyroidism, n = 12 (5 primary hypothyroidism and 7 chronic thyroiditis). A control group of 30 normal individuals, ages ranging from 19 to 85 years was also studied. Diagnostic titers of TMA were found in 30.8% of group I, 88.5% of group II, 91.6% of group III and only in 6.6% of controls. The high incidence of positive TMA in toxic diffuse goiter (96.1%) as well as in hypothyroid patients was expected since these are typical examples of thyroid autoimmune disease. In the non toxic goiter group, positive TMA were present in 50% of multinodular, 28% of uninodular and 25% of diffuse goiters and the incidence of positive TMA varied according to age, being higher over the age of 40 years and lower under the age of 20 years. We postulate that this unexpected high incidence of positive TMA in non toxic goiter is due to amelioration of chronic iodine deficiency inducing the expression of latent autoimmune disease.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2519391 TI - [Role of the liver in septic encephalopathy. A disorder associated with multiple organ failure caused by sepsis]. AB - The appearance of jaundice during a septic process is usually associated to multiple organ failure and a high mortality rate. Among 17 septic patients followed prospectively, we found 11 with hepatic dysfunction. Abnormal levels of bilirubin and alanine-aminotransferase were found. Glutamine concentration in spinal fluid was 26 +/- 19.4 mg/dl vs 9.43 +/- 2.41 in patients without liver failure (p less than 0.05). Significant correlations were found among levels of bilirubin and glutamine (r = 0.83), creatinine (r = 0.708), number of platelets (r = 0.778) and between glutamine and creatinine (r = 0.708). Patients with liver failure presented a higher rate of renal failure and thrombocytopenia (p less than 0.01) and a higher mortality rate. These findings confirm that liver failure is associated to multiple organ failure and thrombocytopenia. It may be related to small vessel occlusion. PMID- 2519392 TI - [Treatment of Hodgkin's lymphoma]. AB - From November 1976 until September 1987, 59 patients with Hodgkin's disease have been admitted and treated with radiotherapy alone or radiotherapy plus elective chemotherapy after been staged according to Stanford's guidelines and following the Ann Arbor's classification. 33 patients were staged I or II, and 26 as stage III or IV. Patients in earlier stages received preferentially radiotherapy alone and those in more advanced stages received radio and chemotherapy. After a median follow-up of 39 months, 100% of patients in stage I, 81.5% of patients in stages II and III A and 45% of patients in stages III B and IV were alive and well. The relapse free survival for patients in stages II and III A was 48.4%, rising to 81.5% after rescue. The use of elective chemotherapy made no difference in survival for stages II B and III A. PMID- 2519393 TI - [Efficacy of propafenone in supraventricular arrhythmias]. AB - We evaluated the results of intravenous administration of propafenone in 44 patients with rapid symptomatic supraventricular arrhythmia of less than 1 month duration. Mean age was 54 years and 22 were females. Propafenone, 2 mg/kg was given over 15 min and blood pressure and heart rate were monitored in the following hour. Sixteen out of 19 (84%) episodes of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia in 15 patients reverted to sinus rhythm at a mean interval of 11 min. None of 14 patients with atrial flutter reverted to sinus rhythm, but the ventricular rate decreased from 143 +/- 38 to 110 +/- 41 (p less than 0.02). The mechanism involved was slowing of the atrial cycle with associated increase A-V block in 7 patients. One patient experienced 1:1 conduction at a rate of 214 per min. Twenty seven % of 15 patients with atrial fibrillation reverted to sinus rhythm; ventricular rate decreased from 134 +/- 40 to 98 +/- 22 (p less than 0.05) in the remaining cases. There were no significant side effects of the drug and systolic blood pressure decreased from 109 +/- 27 to 99 +/- 30 beats per min (p less than 0.05) with no change in diastolic pressure. PMID- 2519394 TI - [Uncomplicated acute male and female gonorrhea: treatment with a single oral dose of epicillin-probenecid]. AB - We treated 142 patients with acute uncomplicated gonorrhea with a single oral dose of epiciline-probenecid. All cases were confirmed by culture on Thayer Martin medium at the first day and they were all laboratory tested seven days after treatment. At the control time the patients were asked about drug tolerance. All isolated strains were tested for beta-lactamase producing capacity and susceptibility to epiciline and penicillin. All patients who were culture positive seven days after treatment were considered to be treatment failures. The treatment was effective in 94.4% and we detected 8 Neisseria gonorrhoeae strains resistant to penicillin (5.6%); seven of these were PPNG strains. Tolerance to the drug was excellent in 90% of all cases; 9% presented minor adverse reactions for a short period of time. Therefore, the combination of epiciline-probenecid is a valid alternative for routine treatment of acute uncomplicated gonorrhea. PMID- 2519395 TI - [Primary hyperparathyroidism: usefulness of high resolution echography in local diagnosis]. AB - Recent reports show a better surgical outcome in primary hyperparathyroidism when an accurate preoperative localization of the lesion in available. We performed high resolution sonography in 23 consecutive patients (20 women) with biochemically proven hyperparathyroidism. Twenty two of them were operated on and their sonographic reports were compared to the surgical and pathological findings (20 adenomas, 1 carcinoma and 1 hyperplasia). One patient did not have surgery but the sonogram was compared to a Tl 201-Tc99 scintigram that suggested an adenoma. Sonography showed a single parathyroid tumor in 17 patients and failed to demonstrate a lesion in six. There were two false positives and 6 false negatives. The sensitivity was 71.5% and the positive predictive value was 88%. Three out of 6 patients with a negative sonography had an adenoma located out of reach for the method. Our results show that the high resolution sonography is a useful, non invasive method to localize abnormally enlarged parathyroid glands in hyperparathyroidism and we think it should be performed in every patient with a biochemical diagnosis of this disease. PMID- 2519396 TI - [Myocardial perfusion during exercise and rest in coronary patients. Evaluation with a thallium 201 analog (isonitrile-technetium 99 m)]. AB - Isonitrile-technetium, a Thallium 201 analog, was used for myocardial perfusion imaging in 12 patients with known coronary heart disease. 10-40 mCu of the isotope were injected at maximal effort during a Bruce stress test. Imaging was performed using 3 projections immediately after exercise and 24 hr later, using a gamma camera attached to a computer. Myocardial necrosis was detected with a sensitivity of 89% and specificity of 63%. Corresponding figures for stress induced ischemia were 89% and 100%. Accurate localization of ischemia or necrosis was obtained in 70% of all cases, improving to 100% in cases of total artery occlusion. These results, similar to those reported in the literature, encourage the use of Tc labeled isonitrile for myocardial perfusion imaging whenever Thallium 201 is difficult to obtain. PMID- 2519397 TI - [Von Willebrand's disease in the IX Region of Chile]. AB - Bleeding disorders are frequent indications for reference to Hematologic Clinics. Won Willebrand's disease (vWD) is one of the commonest of inheritable hemorrhagic diathesis. In order to evaluate the frequency and clinical characteristics of vWD in the IX Region of Chile, we performed a clinical and laboratory investigation in 132 patients, children and adults, over a period of 3 years: 1983-1985. Within this group there was 26 close relatives. The laboratory tests used for the diagnosis were: bleeding time, factor VIII, von Willebrand factor and ristocetin cofactor. Diagnosis of vWD was made in 83 cases, most of them presenting the mild form of the disease. Two children had the severe form. The estimated prevalence of vWD in symptomatic patients in the IX Region of Chile is at least 113 per million, which makes it 3 or 4 times more frequent than hemophilia. vWD is observed at a much lower rate in mapuche than in caucasian population. The symptoms and their frequency were: post partum bleeding 75%, dental extraction bleeding 65%, surgical bleeding 65%, epistaxis 63%, menorrhagia 54%, easy bruising 45%, deep hematomas 8% and petechiae 5%. Five cases were asymptomatic. The bleeding time was the test most frequently abnormal: 72/83 cases (87%). PMID- 2519398 TI - [Medullary carcinoma of the thyroid. Clinical case]. AB - A 13 year old girl presented with a thyroid nodule and enlarged cervical lymph nodes. Symptoms endocrine dysfunction were absent. The patient was submitted to complete thyroidectomy and modified cervical lymph node dissection. Diagnosis of medullary carcinoma was confirmed through both optical and electron microscopy. At 30 months of follow up no evidence of local or distant recurrence was observed. PMID- 2519399 TI - [Unusual sarcomas of the breast. Report of 3 cases]. AB - Non phylloides sarcomas of the breast are infrequent malignant tumors that can be identified only at histologic examination since clinical presentation may not differ from the more frequent phylloides type. In addition to fibrosarcoma, leiomyosarcoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, angiosarcoma and liposarcoma, the stromal sarcoma of the breast has been recently identified. We report 3 such cases with heterologous components of osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma and liposarcoma. A third case with an anti-sarcoma appearing post radiotherapy for breast carcinoma is also reported. PMID- 2519401 TI - [Electrode catheter ablation of the atrioventricular node. Clinical report]. AB - Electrode catheter ablation may be used to treat supraventricular tachyarrhythmias refractory to medical treatment. Initially it was used to treat atrial fibrillation with rapid A-V conduction and later for ablation of para septal abnormal bundles or ventricular tachycardia foci. A patient with advanced chronic air flow limitation developed atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response and heart failure. Drugs and cardioversion failed in controlling the arrhythmia. Partial electrode catheter ablation of the A-V node was followed by a decrease of ventricular rate from 170 to 90 per min associated to an improvement of heart failure. PMID- 2519400 TI - [Idiopathic recurrent ventricular tachycardia: role of verapamil in its treatment]. AB - Verapamil is a calcium channel blocker ideally suited for the treatment of A-V nodal reciprocating supraventricular tachycardia. Most types of ventricular tachycardia are refractory to treatment with verapamil since they depend on sodium channels. However, a few cases of recurrent ventricular tachycardia are refractory to Type I antiarrhythmic agents and may respond to verapamil. We report 2 such cases. PMID- 2519402 TI - [Biologic and physiologic role of taurine and its derivates]. AB - Taurine is ubiquitous in nature but its distribution and amount differs among biological organisms. Its role as an antioxidant and osmoregulator has been recently recognized. Synthesis and transport of taurine may be different among species with implications on the role of taurine in normal physiologic processes and pathologic conditions. PMID- 2519403 TI - [Professional role of the physician in health care]. AB - The professional role of the doctor in health care was analyzed in terms of the peculiarities of the chilean social reality. Determining factors include tradition, the expectations of society and demands of health policies. Action fields and primary and delegated functions are identified. This may be important to help prevent the take over of some of these functions by other health professionals. PMID- 2519404 TI - [Medical libraries in hospitals: model of the Hospital Gustavo Fricke]. PMID- 2519405 TI - [Diagnosis of obesity: psychological aspects]. PMID- 2519406 TI - [Demographic trends: birth spacing]. AB - Two studies to measure children spacing in western metropolitan Santiago are compared. The first (1984-85) surveyed a sample of 687 mothers and the second 1,000. Deliveries took place at San Juan de Dios and Felix Bulnes hospitals (both state-finance) which provide medical care for medium and low income groups. Long spacing (5 years or more) accounted for the highest proportion of non-first born children (33.8% in 1984-85 with a significant increase to 40.1% in 1988) while short spacing (under 2 years) accounted for 19.2% in 1984-85 and 21.8% in 1988 (not significant). Mean birth weights were over 3,200 g in every spacing group. Despite the low illiteracy rate, predominant urban origin and having at least one child born before, high proportions of children were conceived despite the use of contraceptive measures (19.7% in 1984-85 and 22.5% in 1988). This contraceptive failure was less frequent among children born after longer spacings. PMID- 2519407 TI - [Revista Medica de Chile. 100 years ago]. AB - This issue contains a report on the completion of construction of the School of Medicine building to be inaugurated in September 1889. The creation of the Council of Public Hygiene is reported. An article on color blindness and case reports of diaphragmatic hernia and giant ovary cysts are included. PMID- 2519408 TI - [Congenital malformations: a model predictive based on risk factors]. AB - Several risk factors were studied in regard to congenital malformations. Malformed newborns (n = 1200) and controls (n = 1200) seen at the Universidad de Chile Hospital between 1969 and 1979 were examined. Their mothers were asked about possible risk factors. Parenteral age and birth order was significantly higher for malformed newborns than for controls. A family history of congenital malformations was more frequent in malformed newborns. Infertility, metrorrhagia and maternal diseases during pregnancy were more frequent in malformed newborns than in controls. A function that discriminates between controls mothers and mothers of malformed newborns was obtained by a logistic regression model. This function correctly predicted 65% of cases. PMID- 2519409 TI - [Prevalence of insulin dependent diabetes mellitus in school children of the metropolitan area]. AB - The prevalence of insulin dependent diabetes mellitus was determined in 1,078,109 students of 2,150 schools between 5 and 19 years of age. 147 diabetic females and 107 diabetic males were found, for a prevalence of 25/100,000 in females and 20/100,000 in males (p less than 0.01). Prevalence of diabetes among 3 age groups, 5-9, 10-14 and 15-19 years, was 17, 22 and 19 per 100,000 in males and 22, 32 and 28 per 100,000 in females, respectively. The higher prevalence in females was significant at all age levels. Overall prevalence according to age was 19, 27 and 24 per 100,000 in the corresponding age groups (significantly higher in the 10-14 year old age group, p less than 0.01). PMID- 2519411 TI - [Uropathogenic Serratia marcescens of hospital origin: analysis of the adhesion mechanism of 2 strains]. AB - We isolated 2 Serratia marcescens strains, fim (0) and fim (-), from patients with urinary tract infection. Adhesion properties were studied by hemagglutination, response of uroepithelial cells and electron microscopy techniques. S marcescens fim (+) showed high adherence to uroepithelial cells, hemagglutination capacity and peculiar electron microscopy characteristics. All of these are absent in the fim (-) variety. The fim (+) strain was resistant to nitrofurantoin, nalidixic acid, tetracyclin, ampicillin, gentamycin, cefradine, cephotaxime and cotrimoxazole, whereas the fim (-) strain was sensitive to all. An absence of extrachromosomal DNA was demonstrated in S marcescens fim (+) suggesting that its characteristics are not coded in plasmids. PMID- 2519410 TI - [Markers of HIV infection in prostitutes: analysis of preventive and risk factors]. AB - We studied 501 prostitutes from the northern and eastern areas of Santiago in november and december, 1987. HIV infection was studied by the HIV antibody and also by HIV antigen. At that time no positive reactors were found. Prostitutes from the northern area were older, of a lower socioeconomic background and less promiscuous, in comparison to prostitutes of the eastern area. However, other disorders of sexual transmission were found in 41% of prostitutes of the northern area and in only 28% of those from the eastern area. This difference may be attributed to the more frequent use of preservative in the latter group. PMID- 2519412 TI - [Are there any differences between myocardial infarction with Q and non-Q in ECG]. AB - Recent literature provides evidence that Non-Q wave myocardial infarction (Non-Q MI) has a different intrahospital course and prognosis than Q-wave myocardial infarction (Q-MI). We evaluated clinical and laboratory characteristics, complications and therapeutic requirements of 557 consecutive patients, 440 with Q-MI and 117 with Non-Q MI. Risk factors for coronary artery disease did not differ among groups. Non-Q MI patients had a significantly higher incidence of previous cardiac events such as myocardial infarction, angina pectoris and heart failure. Peak CPK enzyme values were significantly lower in Non Q MI patients (952 +/- 753 vs 1,743 +/- 1,425 VI/l p less than 0.05). Early complications were different for both groups: The incidence of heart failure, ventricular arrhythmias and conduction defects was lower in Non-Q MI patients while the incidence of unstable angina pectoris and need for aorto coronary by-pass surgery was higher (18 vs 12%, 17 vs 7% respectively, p less than 0.05). Mortality was not different (8.4% in Non-Q MI vs 12.3% in Q MI). Thus, Non Q MI appears to have a more benign clinical course than Q-MI in terms of less complications such as heart failure, ventricular arrhythmias and conduction defects. However, Non-Q MI is a potentially unstable clinical entity with a higher incidence of early post MI angina pectoris requiring a more aggressive medical and surgical therapy. PMID- 2519413 TI - [Association of coronary disease and valve diseases: implications for coronariography indication]. AB - We studied 111 patients with valvular heart disease in order to detect associated coronary artery disease (CAD). Fifty had aortic valve disease, 47 mitral lesions and 14 mitro-aortic disease. Coronary angiography was performed in all subjects above 50 years of age and in 13 younger subjects with angina, atypical chest pain, prior myocardial infarction or unexplained left ventricular disfunction. Eight subjects (7.2%) had significant CAD: 1 with triple, 2 with double and 5 with single vessel disease. CAD was diagnosed in 11.5% of 26 patients with angina, in 6% of 17 patients with atypical chest pain and in 6% of 68 patients without pain. CAD was present in males only above age 55. We conclude that in our population, with low incidence of CAD, the association of this disease and valvular heart disease is unusual. Coronary arteriography would be unnecessary in these patients except in the presence of marked risk factors or other clinical findings suggesting CAD, like angina or prior myocardial infarction. PMID- 2519414 TI - [Idiopathic hypoparathyroidism, a syndrome with various clinical expressions: analysis of 10 cases]. AB - We report 10 patients with primary hypoparathyroidism. Age at onset varied from 7 months to 52 years (mean 28); 7 were female. Diagnosis was established at a mean of 4.1 years after the appearance of clinical manifestations. Unexplained hypocalcemia (mean 5.3 mg/dl) and hyperphosphatemia (mean 6.4 mg/dl) were present in all patients. Prevalent symptoms included tetany (9 patients), seizures (5) and hypocalcemic cataracts (4). Clinical manifestations may be grouped into 5 types 1) tetany; 2) seizures; 3) other neurologic disorders (basal ganglia calcification, pseudotumor of the brain, ataxia, nystagmus, hypertonus, paresis); 4) disorders of the lens including fully developed cataracts and 5) skin alterations like psoriasis and others. Some of these run on acute course (seizures, tetany), others a subacute one (skin alterations) while others are rather chronic (cataract and other neurologic disorders). Seizures and electroencephalographic disorders predominate in younger patients while tetany is more prevalent in older subjects. PMID- 2519415 TI - [Mesenteric vascular insufficiency caused by chronic occlusive disease: experience with the surgical management of 9 cases]. AB - We report our experience in the surgical treatment of visceral arterial occlusive disease in 9 patients. The etiology was atherosclerosis in 7 cases and arteritis in 2. Four patients were admitted because of acute mesenteric ischemia, but only two had a previous history of intestinal angina. Four consulted because of chronic mesenteric angina and only 1 asymptomatic patient received prophylactic revascularization. The clinical picture of postprandial abdominal pain, weight loss, bowel habit disturbance, abdominal bruit or signs of occlusive disease elsewhere, should lead to clinical diagnosis. Angiographic evaluation is mandatory to plan the best surgical approach. In this series we revascularized 14 vessels in 9 patients using different technics. Two patients died (42 and 90 days) following revascularization and partial resection of the gut for extensive infarction. All survivors achieved symptom relief and or recovered or stabilized their weight. PMID- 2519416 TI - [Value of preoperative colonoscopy in colon-rectal neoplasms]. AB - The surgical approach to treat colo-rectal carcinoma is usually based on the findings of barium enema. In 102 patients we reviewed the yield of pre-operative colonoscopy. Barium enema revealed the cancer in 76 of 84 patients (91%), whereas colonoscopy did so in 96 of 102 subjects (94%). In addition, 5 associated cancerous lesions were demonstrated by colonoscopy and none by barium enema. Associated benign lesions were seen in 14 patients. In 5 patients the surgical plan based on the barium enema was modified by the findings at colonoscopy. Eight false negatives to barium enema were correctly diagnosed by colonoscopy. We conclude that colonoscopy yields valuable information, beyond that of barium enema, in patients with colo-rectal cancer. PMID- 2519417 TI - [Familial lead poisoning]. AB - A 1 year and 9 month old patient was admitted with ataxia. CBC showed a microcytic, hypocromic anemia with intense basophilic sttipling of erythrocytes. Lead poisoning was suspected and confirmed with a blood lead level of 167 micrograms/dl. The patient was treated with EDTA and BAL. It was discovered that family burned old car batteries for food cooking. Four members were intoxicated, with blood lead levels at or above 50 micrograms/dl. PMID- 2519418 TI - [The accessory soleus muscle: 2 cases]. AB - The accessory soleus muscle is infrequently found; no reports of it are available in South American literature. It is found between the tibia and the soleus muscle in the distal leg. It may be misdiagnosed as a hemangioma, lipoma or sarcoma. It may be the cause of functional disorder such as varus or equino-varus. Among 254 dissections performed in young adults of both sexes and different ethnic origin we found only 2 accessory soleus muscles, both in males. One originated from the soleus muscle and was inserted in the superior aspect of the "calcaneo", in front of the "tendon calcaneo". The other originated from the anterior fascia of the soleus muscle and was inserted on the medial aspect of the "calcaneo". The clinical significance of the accessory soleus muscle is related to the presence of pain or functional disorders. PMID- 2519419 TI - [Cardiac tamponade as the first manifestation of cancer]. AB - We report 3 patients having cardiac tamponade as the initial presentation of cancer. At the onset of symptoms all three patients were incorrectly diagnosed. Pulsus paradoxus and cardiomegaly on the Chest X-Ray were the main clinical features. Two dimensional echocardiography was vital revealing massive pericardial effusion with diastolic right atrial and ventricular collapse. All patients had bloody pericardial fluid removed and the histopathology of the metastatic pericardial tissue showed lung cancer, thymoma and lymphoma. PMID- 2519420 TI - [The genes of the Pascuense population]. AB - An analysis of the interaction of evolutionary factors such as migration, mutation, selection random drift, and consanguinity upon the genome of Easter islanders is attempted. As many primitive populations, the Easter islanders genome has at least 2/3 of genetic loci in an isogenic state. The HLA system is reduced; other polymorphisms present high genic frequencies differentiating Easter islanders from other Andean and european populations. They are more similar to polynesians, with whom they share language and culture. Migration has been the main factor affecting the Easter islanders genome, leading to a ten fold increase in population and a 60% caucasian admixture. A linkage disequilibrium of the HLA9, w10 haplotype exists. In XIX century generations consanguinity was very low (alpha coefficient 7 x 10(-5) which may be explained by the exogamic tradition of the population; this acted as a factor opposed to random drift. A recent decrease in infant mortality rate leads to a relaxation of natural selection and contributes to hybridization of the population. PMID- 2519421 TI - [Assessment of nutritional status in the elderly]. PMID- 2519422 TI - [Lactic acidosis in diabetic patients associated with buformin]. PMID- 2519423 TI - [The training of specialized physicians and continuing medical education: a system in crisis]. AB - In 1954 the Postgraduate School of the University of Chile initiated the programmed training of medical specialists and continuous medical education. The National Health Service, in cooperation with the University, granted 2-3 year fellowships for medical graduates or for physicians who had previously worked 3 to 5 years in National Health Service hospitals around the country. In 1981, a new University law oriented to the decentralization of these institutions, established that postgraduate programs would be under direct control of each Medical School (6 in all). Since then, an increasing number of graduates, a decrease in the number of postgraduate training programs and a deterioration of training centers has been observed. Some continuous medical education and specialization programs are carried out/by independent organizations, not necessarily related to the medical schools. Moreover, important changes in health and economic policies have occurred in the country and financial resources for the specialization of physicians are limited. Urgent action of institutions with a responsibility for post-graduate training, with cooperation of private sectors, is needed to revert this critical problem. PMID- 2519424 TI - [Colon and rectum neoplasms in Chile: epidemiological characteristics]. AB - A rising incidence and mortality rate from cancer of the colon and rectum has been observed in some Chilean regions. An estimated 1.350 hospital admissions and 650 deaths occurred in the last decade. Cumulative risk for developing these lesions is estimated at 0.75% under 60 and 1.52% under 75 years of age. Mean age at presentation was 65 years for colon cancer and 63 for cancer of the rectum. Both sexes were equally affected. Valid survival studies are not available in Chilean literature. The relation of number of deaths and admissions per year was 78.5% for colon cancer and 28.9% for the rectum. From 1965 to 1985 an 83% increase in the prevalence of rectum cancer and 7% for colon cancer was observed. This trend was most marked in the Magallanes region. A family history appears as a significant risk factor (1.4 to 49.1 odds ratio). Borderline significance as risk factors was observed for obesity and meat and relish consumption. No effect of smoking, alcohol intake, history of lithiasis or exposure to asbestus or ionizing radiation was observed. PMID- 2519425 TI - [The Revista Medica de Chile, 100 years ago]. AB - This issue of the journal contains information related to the "Protomedicato", an institution established in Spain in 1477 and incorporated to its colonies. Its functions included the granting of medical licenses, supervision of public hygiene and legal faculties. It was established in Chile in 1738. The dean of the Medical School, University of Chile became "protomedico" en 1843. The institution was abolished in Chile in 1879. PMID- 2519426 TI - [Effect of endotracheal instillation of hydrochloric acid on the contents of alveolar surfactant in rats]. AB - Aspiration of gastric contents to the lung is a cause of Adult Respiration Distress syndrome. We studied the effects of endotracheal instillation of hydrochloric acid (2 ml/kg, 0.1 N solution) in anesthetized rats who were sacrificed 4 or 48 hr later. A control group received 0.9% saline solution instead. Total protein, phospholipids, disaturated phosphatidylcholine (DSPC) and number of cells were determined in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Histologic studies were performed in one rat in each group. HCl caused edema and inflammatory reaction characterized by a rise in protein and cells in the bronchoalveolar fluid 48 hr after endotracheal instillation. This was associated with an increase in total phospholipid and in DSPC. Therefore, the inflammatory response to HCl is associated to an increase in alveolar surfactant 48 hr after instillation. PMID- 2519427 TI - [Hepatic cirrhosis with refractory ascitis and changes in renal function: effects of the infusion of fresh plasma and furosemide]. AB - An alteration of renal function may be the main factor responsible for refractoriness of ascites in cirrhotic patients. We treated 10 such patients with intravenous infusion of 600 ml fresh human plasma and 600 mg of furosemide. Two hr after infusion, a significant increase in Na and K urinary excretion, urine volume and osmolality and GFR was observed. Twenty four hr after infusion, these values were decreased but still above pre infusion levels. We conclude that plasma infusion in association to furosemide significantly improves renal function in cirrhotic patients with refractory ascites. PMID- 2519428 TI - [In vitro activity of ampicillin and ampicillin-sulbactam on diverse bacteria]. AB - A foremost mechanism of bacterial resistance to penicillin and its derivatives is the chromosomal or plasmid mediated production of B-lactamase. Inhibitors of these enzymes like sulbactam may help overcome this problem. We tested the in vitro activity of ampicillin alone or in association with sulbactam (1:1 ratio) against enterobacteriaceae, aeromonae, Hemophilus influenzae, staphylococci and Streptococcus fecalis, isolated from patients suffering different infectious diseases. The Kirby-Bauer method was used to evaluate susceptibility and MIC was determined by agar dilution techniques. Most enterobacteriaceae and aeromonae were resistant to ampicillin. The association was effective against shigellae and Yersinia enterocolitica. 28% of H. influenzae strains were resistant to ampicillin alone but were susceptible to the association. 30% of resistant staphylococci became sensitive to the association. PMID- 2519429 TI - [Percutaneous aortic valvuloplasty: immediate results in calcified aortic stenosis]. AB - Symptomatic calcific aortic stenosis in elderly patients has a poor prognosis and a relatively high surgical risk. Percutaneous aortic valvuloplasty is a new therapeutic procedure that may be applied in this group of patients. We report immediate results obtained with this technique in a cooperative study of 3 hospitals. In 16 of 19 patients we were able to locate a balloon catheter across the aortic valve following a femoral artery puncture. Mean age was 72 years and almost all patients were considered high surgical risk. Peak aortic gradient fell from 89 + 33 to 47 + 21 mmHg while valve area rose from 0.43 + 0.14 to 0.66 + 0.27 cm2; cardiac output remained unchanged. In 5 patients, an aortic valve area above 0.7 cm2 was obtained. Four patients needed blood transfusion, one developed pericardial tamponade and other recovered uneventfully from ventricular fibrillation. One patient died hours after the procedure in a low output state probably related to aortic insufficiency. We feel that aortic valvuloplasty is indicated in patients with severe calcific aortic stenosis and high surgical risk. Moderate improvement can be obtained with risks commensurate with the severity of the illness. PMID- 2519430 TI - [Metabolic control of non insulin dependent diabetes mellitus in surgery]. AB - We followed 50 type II diabetic patients undergoing various types of surgical procedures. Control of blood sugar was evaluated as percent of tests within an acceptable limit defined as 160 mg/dl in the preoperative period, 80-240 mg/dl in the early postoperative period and 80-120 mg/dl thereafter. Adequate control was present in 56% of tests in the first period, 95% in the second and 70% in the third. Only 2 subjects experienced hypoglycemia with no sequelae. No cases of ketoacidosis or hyperosmolar coma were observed. Overall mortality was 2% and complications included electrolyte alterations in 8%, acid base disturbance in 4% and infection in 16%. Thus, adequate metabolic control and low morbidity and mortality are possible in patients with type II diabetes undergoing surgery. PMID- 2519431 TI - [Nutritional assessment of patients on chronic hemodialysis: what is our reality?]. AB - We evaluated 22 patients with chronic renal failure on hemodialysis. Nutritional status was evaluated by anthropometric indices, levels of serum albumin, lymphocytes, transferrin, complement and creatinine generation. Protein intake was estimated from 6 surveys performed over a period of 6 months and socioeconomic status gauged by social survey. Mean weight was 106% of expected being definitely low in 5 patients. Sixteen patients had at least one abnormal test, with a low transferrin level being the most common (15 patients). Mean caloric intake was 27.8 cal/kg/day and protein intake 0.96 g/kg/day. Good correlation between protein intake estimated by diet survey and urea nitrogen balance was observed. No correlation of nutritional status and socioeconomic status was observed. We conclude that patients on chronic hemodialysis commonly have malnutrition and low caloric intake. PMID- 2519432 TI - [Gastric cancer in the IX Region of Chile: an analysis of 233 cases]. AB - Gastric cancer is the leading cause of mortality from malignancy in Chile. Different reports indicate a high incidence of well differentiated forms of this tumor. Among 233 endoscopically diagnosed lesions in patients from the Ninth Region of Chile, we found a high incidence of poorly differentiated tumors and a relatively high incidence of signet-ring cell carcinoma. The incidence of inoperable lesions was high. PMID- 2519434 TI - [Duodenal obstruction caused by cholelithiasis (Bouverets' syndrome): a clinical case]. AB - A 55 year old man presented with vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, jaundice and choluria. An obstruction of the gastric outlet by a large gallstone located at the duodenum was demonstrated by radiologic, ultrasonographic and endoscopic examinations. The stone could not be removed through endoscopy and the patient was successfully operated on. A review of published reports is included. PMID- 2519435 TI - [Maternal connective tissue disease associated with congenital AV block]. AB - We report 3 patients with congenital A-V block whose mothers had anti-Ro or anti La antibodies. One of them had systemic lupus with serum anti-Ro antibodies; the other had anti-Ro antibodies and no clinical manifestations; the third had an undifferentiated connective tissue disorder with anti-La antibodies in the serum. The epidemiology of this association is discussed as well as some therapeutic options. PMID- 2519433 TI - [Headache of cervical origin]. AB - We studied 40 patients with cervical spine disease who had headache (Group A) with 40 patients with disease and no headache (Group B). In addition to clinical and radiologic evaluation, 24 patients in group A and 27 in Group B had electromyographic study, which was normal en 18 of the former and 4 of the latter group. Abnormal neurologic findings were present only in Group B (37% of patients). Alterations of the cervical spine were more pronounced in Group B. These findings suggest that headache is not related to cervical spine disease and may be caused by other factors such as inadequate posture, brisk movements of the neck and emotional and psychologic disturbances. PMID- 2519436 TI - [Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome]. AB - The AIDS epidemics is a serious threat to world health. Transmission of infection follows well defined routes: sexual contact with infected people, transfusion of blood or other contaminated products and the transplacental infection. The bulk of cases is due homo or heterosexual contact. Measures to decrease the risk of transmission associated to blood transfusion are already operative in Chile. Campaigns for public education are starting and should be increased. Risky conducts can be decreased by these measures which are the responsibility of society at large. PMID- 2519437 TI - [Genetic factors as determinants of drug response]. AB - Pharmacogenetics deals with the influence of genetic factors upon the response to drugs. Therapeutic and side effects are affected by pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic changes. Classic examples are presented, in particular those concerning mechanisms of oxidation, acetylation and hydrolysis. The impact of this discipline on therapeutics is discussed. PMID- 2519438 TI - [Standard requirements for manuscripts submitted to biomedical journals for publication]. PMID- 2519439 TI - [Evolution of mortality by causes (1960-1982)]. AB - Mortality from all causes has decreased in Chile by 50% from 1960 to 1982. Median age of death increased from 28 to 66 years. Reduction in mortality rate was greater for those under 15 years of age, mostly due to a decrease in mortality from digestive, respiratory, infectious and neonatal diseases. In contrast, only 16% reduction was observed in mortality for the 65 and over age group. This may be due to a relative increase in mortality from cardiovascular diseases in the older age group. Multiple factors are involved in the improvement of these health indexes, such as changes in socio-economic conditions, health delivery policies and demographic change of the population. PMID- 2519440 TI - [Medical leave in hospital personnel]. AB - We investigated medical leaves of personnel at Temuco's hospital from 1986 to 1987. 57% of persons had at least one leave and 54% of these had 2 or more leaves. Women and paramedicals had more medical leaves. Most absences occurred in june, july, august (p less than 0.01). Most leaves were caused by respiratory diseases (26%) with absence periods from 1 to 6 days. Infectious and parasitic diseases caused absences ranging from 1 to 42 days. Better health policies may help decrease this rather high absenteeism due to disease. PMID- 2519441 TI - [Gastric and gallbladder carcinoma in Chile: epidemiological changes and control programs]. PMID- 2519442 TI - [A technique for preventing inadvertent withdrawal of the naso-enteral tube]. PMID- 2519443 TI - [Smoking among elementary school children. Study in a population of low socioeconomic level]. AB - We surveyed a probabilistic sample of 1383 school children attending elementary school (5th to 8th grade) in La Pincoya, a neighborhood of northern Santiago. 53.7% had smoked at least once, and 1 out of 5 were regular smokers of 1-4 cigarettes (72%) or more than 5 cigarettes a day (14%). The incidence of smoking was higher among boys and increased with age. Smoking occurs in different places including the street (19%). About 60% of children get their cigarettes from other children or adults. Those who buy, do so by units rather than packs. The incidence of smoking raised to 64% among children of parents who smoked. Pleasure or imitation were quoted as main reasons for smoking. PMID- 2519444 TI - [Tobacco consumption in a group of physicians of the V Valparaiso Region (Chile)]. AB - We surveyed 174 physicians from the Valparaiso area regarding smoking habits. 25% were smokers and 75% were not, among them 103 exsmokers (70%). A slightly higher, but not significant percentage of women smokers was observed. Compared to the general population in that area the percentage of physician smokers is significantly lower. The latter show a greater tolerance to smoking habit among their family and patients. Most doctors surveyed were not impressed by the anti smoking campaigns of health authorities. PMID- 2519445 TI - [Prevalence of Streptococcus mutans in pehuenche children, Chilean ethnic group]. AB - We studied 26 pehuenche children between 9 and 13 years of age and 12 non pehuenche controls. Samples were obtained from saliva and from the bacterial plaque of 6 year molars and cultured anaerobically for 48 hr at 37 C in TYCSB medium. S mutans were obtained from 90% of children in both groups, all corresponding to biotype I (Coykendall). Nutritional and hygienic habits did not differ between groups. These results confirm the ample distribution of S mutants in Chilean subjects. PMID- 2519446 TI - [Phenotypic, genotypic and genic frequencies. Serum pseudocholinesterase in blood donors from Santiago de Chile]. AB - Varying distributions of the different forms of pseudocholinesterase are related to different sensitivities of patients to muscle relaxants. We studied the different alleles of this enzyme in a sample of blood donors at a general hospital in Santiago, Chile. The genic frequency of the A allele was 0.0125, which is similar to that reported for different caucasoid populations. PMID- 2519447 TI - [Usefulness of repeated measurement of plasma levels of gentamycin]. AB - We monitored plasma levels of gentamycin in 28 patients being treated for different infectious processes. The mean age was 53.7 years. Drug dose and administration was determined by the treating physician, without knowledge of plasma levels. Peak and through levels were measured by RIA after the third and 7th dose. No patient had adequate therapeutic levels throughout the treatment period and 6 were therapeutic failures. Patients with renal insufficiency frequently had toxic plasma levels. Monitoring gentamycin plasma levels is recommended for all patients receiving the drug, especially those with renal insufficiency or therapeutic failure. PMID- 2519448 TI - [Gallbladder pathology in Temuco, IX Region]. AB - We reviewed the histological (light microscopy) findings in 1553 biopsies obtained after surgery for gallbladder disease and correlated these with demographic characteristics of patients. Cancer of the gallbladder was present in 6.1%. Women prevailed in all age and disease groups, especially in mapuches (11:1). Both for neoplastic and nonneoplastic disease the proportion of patients with mapuche surnames was lower than expected for the population in the area. 52% of neoplastic lesions were not macroscopically apparent. Seven tumors involved only the mucous layer and 2 were intraepithelial. Only 2 tumors were well differentiated. The liver was the organ most frequently invaded by gallbladder cancer. PMID- 2519449 TI - [Hemodialysis and urea kinetics. An elementary computational program]. AB - An elementary computational program to optimize dialysis in children with chronic renal failure was developed. The program is based on the urea kinetics model. Parameters involved in the efficiency of hemodialysis such as time and clearance, hemofilter performance and body surface area, as well as nutritional needs of the child are considered in the program. PMID- 2519450 TI - [Determination of plasma levels of phenytoin. Evaluation of 2 techniques]. AB - We compared 2 techniques for determination of plasma levels of phenytoin, liquid gas chromatography (LGC) and homogeneous enzymatic immunoassay (EI) in samples from 72 patients receiving monotherapy with this drug. Determinations were also made in samples of normal plasma with known concentrations of phenytoin. Good correlation of both techniques was observed in patient samples containing less than 15 micrograms/ml of the drug but not with higher concentrations. LGC was accurate in determination of known concentrations of phenytoin, whereas immunoassay showed an exponential deviation with overestimation of phenytoin levels. Thus LGC is a better technique for determination of phenytoin levels; however EI may be used in most clinical situations when the concentration of phenytoin lies under 20 micrograms/dl. PMID- 2519451 TI - [Acute pancreatitis and hypertriglyceridemia]. AB - An association between acute pancreatitis and hypertriglyceridemia has long been recognized. The frequency of this association may be as high as 25 per cent. Whether the lipid abnormalities are secondary to acute pancreatitis and therefore temporary or whether they are primary and possibly etiologically involved is unsettled. Most experimental and clinical evidences suggest that hypertriglyceridemia precedes and apparently cause the development of pancreatitis. The mechanism of injury may be mediated through free fatty acids released from the triglycerides. It has recently been identified a group of normotriglyceridemic patients with a previous attack of acute pancreatitis, at least 6 months earlier, who had an impaired clearance of serum triglycerides after an oral fat tolerance test. The clearance of ingested triglycerides was significantly impaired as compared with a control group, irrespective of the presence of diabetes, alcohol consumption or biliary lithiasis. The authors suggested that a triglyceride tolerance test is the only way to detect those patients in whom future attacks of pancreatitis may be precipitated by a diet rich in fat or an alcoholic debauch. In a further study the authors suggested that the abnormal oral fat tolerance test in these patients with previous acute pancreatitis and normotriglyceridemia is secondary to an impaired chylomicron remnants clearance. These findings strongly suggest a relatively common and preexistent defect in lipid metabolism which may be important in the pathogenesis of the disease. PMID- 2519452 TI - [Acute polyarthritis in a patient with AIDS. Clinical report]. AB - A homosexual patient known to be HIV positive for 2 years developed fever, herpes labialis, salmonellosis and symmetric polyarthritis. No specific cause was documented for the arthritis which was ascribed to the AIDS syndrome. Partial improvement in symptoms was observed after therapy with cotrimoxazole and indomethacin. Musculoskeletal complications of AIDS are reviewed. PMID- 2519454 TI - [Atrial ectopic tachycardia. A variety of incessant tachycardia]. AB - A 19 year old patient with incessant supraventricular tachycardia was submitted to electrophysiologic study. An ectopic left atrial focus was demonstrated. Intraoperative mapping localized the focus to the upper left atrial quadrant. Successful surgical isolation of the focus was possible. The patient is currently asymptomatic and arrhythmia free. PMID- 2519453 TI - [Conduction system disease and Charcot-Marie-Tooth syndrome]. AB - A 57 year old patient with Charcot-Marie-Tooth syndrome developed complete A-V block due to trifascicular disease. The syndrome was present in 3 generations and the patient's mother had also complete A-V block. It is not known whether this interesting association is genetically determined or fortuitous. PMID- 2519455 TI - [Stress mechanisms and pharmacological stressor blockade]. AB - A biomedicine approach to stress mechanisms is developed. Stress, stages are illustrated as symbolic gear transmissions. Stressor transit through the organism leads to final stage characterized by behavioral changes. Anticholinergic and antiadrenergic agents may be used to investigate stressor pathway. This kind of research suggest that the stressor goes into the hypothalamic region through the cholinergic system and goes out of it through and adrenergic pathway. The third ventricle occupying the hypothalamic region is the location where orders for stress response can be traced. PMID- 2519456 TI - [Lupus nephropathy: difficulties in its treatment]. AB - The management of the patient with lupus nephropathy is still difficult. A new classification considering activity and chronicity indexes has revalued the histologic assessment as a prognostic and therapeutic guide. The benefits of immunosuppressive drugs in preventing progression of renal disease have been clarified and adverse effects reduced by new methods of administration. A key aspect of therapy is still individual selection of type and intensity of immunosuppression, that must be adjusted to the changing nature of the disease. Therapy must be balanced between optimal levels of efficacy and minimal toxicity. PMID- 2519457 TI - [Air and water pollution and its impact on human health]. PMID- 2519459 TI - [Typhoid fever in Santiago]. PMID- 2519458 TI - [Isospora belli in a HIV (+) patient]. PMID- 2519461 TI - [Lyme disease in Chile]. PMID- 2519460 TI - [Pneumonia due to Pneumocystis carinii: experimental design in rats]. PMID- 2519462 TI - [Revista Medica de Chile. 100 years ago]. AB - France celebrated the first centennial of the French Revolution. Sixty nine international meetings took place, 24 of them dealing with medical or public health problems. The Chilean Commission for the Paris Universal Exhibit asked Dr Adolfo Murillo to write an account (460 pages) of public health conditions in Chile. Main epidemics at that time (smallpox, tuberculosis, dysentery, venereal diseases, typhoid fever and typhus are described. PMID- 2519463 TI - [Biliary scintigraphy in patients with functional disorders of Oddi's sphincter]. AB - The appearance of biliary pain after cholecystectomy in patients with normal ultrasonic and cholangiographic studies has been attributed to functional alterations of the Sphincter of Oddi. We performed dynamic cholescyntigraphic studies of the biliary tract in 32 cholecystectomized patients, at least six months after the operation: 27 were asymptomatic (control group) and 5 had clinical and laboratory findings suggesting temporary functional obstruction of the Sphincter of Oddi. In this group we demonstrated an emptying delay of the biliary tract that was modified by the IV infusion of Cholecystokinin Octapeptide. Biliary Cholescintigraphy appears as a good screening method to evaluate functional alterations of the Sphincter of Oddi. PMID- 2519464 TI - [Early complications of caustic injuries of the digestive tract]. AB - We retrospectively analyzed the gastrointestinal complications observed in 119 patients who had ingested corrosive agents. Hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide were the agents involved in 62% of patients. Women predominated over men (p less than 0.001); mean age was 36 for males and 29 for women (p less than 0.05). Endoscopy was performed in 55% of patients and revealed acute lesions in 69%. Complications were observed in 18% of patients requiring surgery in 12 (10%). Main complications included sepsis of abdominal or mediastinal origin and gastrointestinal bleeding. Mortality among these patients was 73%. PMID- 2519465 TI - [Medical care to cerebrovascular syndrome]. AB - We analyzed clinical data from all patients with a stroke admitted to the Emergency Service of a General Hospital in Santiago, from 1984 to 1986. 371 patients (196 women and 175 men) were diagnosed as having thrombosis (43%), embolic occlusion (18%), intracerebral hemorrhage (36%) and subarachnoid hemorrhage (3%). CAT scans were performed in 25% and angiography in 16%. The diagnosis was considered proven in 40% of cases. Overall hospital mortality was 46%, raising to 66% for hemorrhages. Prevention of cerebral edema was the main medical treatment. The present data suggest that primary prevention of and technological facilities to treat cerebrovascular episodes are inadequate at a general hospital level in Santiago. PMID- 2519466 TI - [Pathologic fracture of the femur due to primary hyperparathyroidism]. AB - Pathologic fractures are not commonly described in primary hyperparathyroidism. A 31 year old male with primary hyperparathyroidism developed severe hypercalcemia and cystic osteitis. Bone pains and a fracture of the femur followed. A parathyroid adenoma was demonstrated by ultrasonography. After resection of the tumor, a normalization of serum Ca levels and clinical recovery took place. PMID- 2519467 TI - [Abdominal actinomycosis: review apropos of 3 cases]. AB - Actinomycosis is a chronic bacterial infectious disease, characterized by multiple abscesses, draining sinuses and abundant dense fibrous tissue. The intra abdominal variety is rarely found and difficult to diagnose. We report three cases of intra-abdominal actinomycosis successfully treated by surgery and by longterm antibiotic therapy. One patient had a liver actinomycosis and two had ileo-caecal disease. Pertinent literature is reviewed. PMID- 2519468 TI - [Atypical variety of re-entry in a dual AV node. A case report]. AB - A 7 year old presented with an asymptomatic wide QRS tachycardia. Holter analysis and electrophysiologic study demonstrated atypical (type II) A-V nodal reentry and rate dependent branch block. PMID- 2519469 TI - [120 years of the Medical Society of Santiago]. AB - The Santiago Medical Society becomes 120 years old on September 2, 1989. It was founded only 36 years after the beginning of Medical Schools in Chile. Originally it was involved with General Medicine. Lately it has turned into an Internal Medicine Society with strong connections to the different subspecialty societies and with affiliates in other cities. The Society is a growing institution and its concern for the general problems of Medicine in our country remains vigorous as ever. PMID- 2519470 TI - [Cephalosporins: bacterial resistance measured by penicillin-binding proteins]. AB - Antibacterial potency of cephalosporins depends on inhibition (acylation) of one or more penicillin-binding proteins (PBP). Recently, reduced affinity of PBP for cephalosporins and other B-lactam agents has been found in some cases. Mechanism for these changes in affinity are analyzed in this review. PMID- 2519472 TI - [Acute effect of flumazenil in refractory hepatic encephalopathy]. PMID- 2519471 TI - [Study and application of the DNA pattern in oncology]. AB - Abnormalities of DNA content are commonly observed in malignant tumors. Clinically relevant information may be obtained given the ease with which DNA pattern can be studied. Flux cytometry and photocytometry are the methods commonly used and both measure the emission of fluorescence after staining the nucleus. ADN pattern has been found to be related to prognosis in many tumors. Also, precancerous lesions and tumor heterogeneity can be analyzed by this technique. PMID- 2519473 TI - [Level of the knowledge about AIDS in blood donors: Valdivia, Chile]. PMID- 2519474 TI - [Parathion poisoning treated in a rural hospital]. PMID- 2519475 TI - [Concept and scope of internal medicine]. AB - Internal medicine derived from the study of internal pathology. The division of knowledge originated subspecialties. These may be grouped according to the organs or systems of interest (cardiology, gastroenterology, etc), to pathogenic mechanisms (clinical immunology, infectious diseases, etc), to characteristics of the patients (intensive medicine, geriatrics, etc). Some are mainly devoted to diagnostic or therapeutic procedures (radiology, nuclear medicine, clinical pharmacology, etc). Internal medicine may be thought of as another specialty or as a trunk from which other subspecialties are derived and nurtured. Internal medicine is characterized by its concern for ample clinical syndromes, multisystemic diseases, general diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, and the intensity of the patient-physician relationship. An analysis of the relationship between internal medicine and its subspecialties must consider the patient's viewpoint, medical teaching, postgraduate training, research and organization of medical departments and societies. A revival of the identity of internal medicine is definitely needed. PMID- 2519476 TI - [Prostitutes of the east sector of Santiago: characteristics and pathology of sexual transmission]. AB - We studied the frequency of venereal disease in 329 prostitutes working at massage parlours in Santiago. The mean age was 24 years and half of them had high school or university studies. In spite of frequent sexual contacts averaging 2.8 per day, the prevalence of significant venereal disease was not high in this group. Notably, AIDS infection was not detected. Vaginitis due to Trichomonas or Candida infection was the commonest problem and this was half as frequent among gum preservative users. Marital condition, age, obstetrical history and other variables were not related to genital infection. PMID- 2519477 TI - [The Revista Medica de Chile. 100 years ago]. AB - The news section of the Journal informed about the completion of the School of Medicine, consisting of large classrooms, auditoriums and laboratories. The new curriculum and rules of the School had become available in 1986. PMID- 2519478 TI - [The National Museum of Chilean Medicine: I. The Colonial period]. AB - The first museum of Chilean Medicines was founded by Dr Enrique Laval in 1955. The new museum is a fusion of this one and patrimony of the School of Medicine and the ancient San Vicente Hospital. It was created in 1987 by the present Dean, Aleksandar Goic. The present article describes one of the halls, the Colony. Pictures of Governors and Conquerors who founded the first hospitals are in display. The period of Religious Medicine (1616-1823) is represented by pictures and religious objects, as well as hospital utensils. The times of the University of San Felipe and the "Protomedicato" (1756-1839) includes pictures and documentation from the first colonial physicians. Chilean medicine at that time stayed at a medieval level, lacking the influence of the Renaissance, the Barroque and other movements enlighting european medicine. PMID- 2519479 TI - [Esophageal potential difference in patients with peptic ulcer and gastritis]. AB - A potential difference is generated by the active transport of electrolytes through low permeability epithelium such as the gastric and esophageal mucosa. A decrease in this potential has been proposed as an indicator of mucosal damage. We measured potential difference in 151 patients undergoing endoscopy for duodenal ulcer, gastritis or as a control group. Mean for the whole group was -18 + 0.5 mV, range -4 to -37. No differences were found among groups. Due to the ample variation in potential difference both at the gastric and esophageal levels, its determination was of no use in localizing the boundary between gastric and esophageal mucosa. PMID- 2519480 TI - [Tuberculosis and diabetes mellitus: a longitudinal-retrospective study in a teaching hospital]. AB - We analyzed 1529 diabetic patients seen between 1959 and 1982 at a teaching hospital in Concepcion, Chile. 116 of them were insulin dependent diabetics. Gestational diabetes was excluded. The 10 year actuarial risk of acquiring tuberculosis was 24.2% for insulin-dependent diabetics and 4.8% for the rest (p less than 0.001). The risk of the diabetic population as a whole was 5.9% compared to 0.8% for the population at large. Thus, diabetics are a high risk group for tuberculosis, especially insulin-dependent patients whose risk is about 38 times higher than the general population under 40 years of age. PMID- 2519481 TI - [Intermittent peritoneal dialysis: a 6 years' experience]. AB - We show our experience, results and complications with Intermittent Peritoneal Dialysis (IPD). We treated with this technique 28 patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD), between 1981-1988; (24 adults, 8 of them with diabetic nephropathy (6 non insulin dependent diabetic patients and 4 children) for 3 to 36 months. IPD was well tolerated. The extracellular volume control, haematocrit and plasma protein values, as well as, ac-base equilibrium nutritional status, ureic nitrogen and creatinine plasma levels, were fully satisfactory. There was statistical difference only in the Na+ (p less than 0.001), alkaline phosphatases (p less than 0.005), glucose (p less than 0.05) plasma values and glycosylated hemoglobin (p less than 0.05), between diabetics and non diabetics group. The peritonitis rate was 0.065 and 0.074 peritonitis/patients-month; respectively (NS) and were caused by Gram (-) bacteria. St Aureus and St Epidermides. The survival curves of patients and method, in both groups, were similar (NS). We conclude IPD is a good alternative of therapy for ESRD, also for diabetics patients, whom haven't got more infection rate than non diabetics patients. PMID- 2519482 TI - [Hemodialysis: vascular access with double lumen catheter]. AB - We evaluated the results of hemodialysis performed with 106 double lumen catheters in 87 patients (mean age 52, range 10-82). 46 patients had chronic and 38 acute renal failure; 2 had respiratory distress syndrome and one refractory heart failure. Catheter flow ranged from 100 to 250 ml/min (mean 207) and effective clearance from 64 to 171 ml/min (mean 125). Only one catheter was used in 75 patients (86%), 2 in 7 and more than 2 in 5. Causes of failure included inadequate flow (9), coagulation (6) and displacement (4). In nine instances, severe complications developed: sepsis (3), local infection (4), hematoma (1) and vagal reaction (1). Three patient with catheters located in the subclavian vein developed vein stenosis, requiring angioplasty in 2 and graft in 1. Thus, double lumen catheter is easy to place and helps preserve future vascular sites in chronic hemodialysis. PMID- 2519483 TI - [Parasitic infections in renal transplantation patients]. AB - We performed indirect hemagglutination tests for toxoplasmosis and Chagas disease, complement fixation test for toxoplasmosis, stool examination for parasites and Graham test for enteroparasites in 51 patients before and after renal transplant. Post transplant surveys were performed at 3, 6, 9, 12 and 18 months. 18 patients who were positive for toxoplasmosis remained so and 5 new asymptomatic cases were detected in the post transplant period (15%). Two patients who were positive for Chagas disease remained positive and asymptomatic. One patient receiving a kidney from a Chagas positive donor remains negative. Asymptomatic enteric infection was detected in 45% of patients at some time during follow up: amebic infection (25%), giardiasis (14%) and oxyuriasis (24%). Two patients showed asymptomatic cryptosporidiasis. PMID- 2519484 TI - [1987/88 campaign for home slaughtering of pigs for family consumption. Health Area No. 5 of La Rioja]. AB - The private slaughter of pigs for home consumption continues to take place in rural areas of our country, especially by persons over 50 years of age who are dedicated to farming and ranching or who are retired. The sacrifice takes place mainly on Fridays and Saturdays in January and February on the owners' property. In 10% of the cases, the airing of the dressed carcasses is done in stables housing other animals. The sacrificed pigs are traditionally fed with barley flour and vegetables, which favours the appearance of hydatid cysts in 3% of the animals. A large part of the products obtained are consumed by families that do not live in rural areas. The viscera, especially those with hydatid cysts, are thrown away or given to the dogs. PMID- 2519485 TI - [Relations between the public sector and the pharmaceutical industry: the recent Spanish experience]. PMID- 2519486 TI - [Human diseases caused by free-living amoebae. I. Acanthamoebiasis]. AB - This summary offers an updated panorama of the problems caused in many countries, including our own, by free protozoan, Acanthamoeba class amoebas that in certain circumstances depend on either pathogenic potential or the immunological condition of the host and which produce significant disease syndromes. Presented here are the main morphological and ecological characteristics of these amoeba, a summarized study of their pathological characteristic, diagnostic and therapeutic data, as well as a synopsis of the majority of clinical cases diagnosed in the world to date. PMID- 2519487 TI - [Iodine levels in water for public consumption in the province of Valencia]. AB - A descriptive study has been carried out on the iodine content in the drinking water of the Valencia province, where very low levels were found in almost all the public water supplies of the province. The levels of iodine are similar in water originating from the different types of water sources. A slightly higher level is observed in industrialized areas, the same as in the water supplies that are near solid and liquid waste dumps located on land which is vulnerable to contamination and in areas close to the ocean. PMID- 2519489 TI - [Laboratory diagnosis of infantile infections caused by the respiratory syncytial virus. Report of 9 cases]. AB - Nine cases of respiratory infections caused by syncytial respiratory virus which were diagnosed by direct immunofluorescence with monoclonal antibodies are presented here. Six of them have been clinically diagnosed as bronchiolitis and the remaining three are diagnosed as obstructive bronchitis, upper respiratory cold and respiratory distress respectively. Seven are male and two are female. Their ages vary from 13 days to eleven months. Its usefulness is indicated given its speed and the current availability of specific antiviral therapeutics. The test would be especially indicated in atypical cases like nursing babies with apnea or those with congenital heart disease or other underlying lung diseases and also to prevent intrahospital epidemias. The conclusion is reached that direct immunofluorescence seems to be an attractive alternative for laboratories that do not have costly cell culture equipment. PMID- 2519488 TI - [Histopathologic evaluation of death certificates in Soria in 1985]. AB - The aim of this paper is to evaluate the quality of the Death Certificates by means of the Death Statistics Bulletins, in their NEOPLASIC aspect in the year 1985 in the Province of Soria, determining the histopathologic confirmation of the deaths by means of the neoplasic patients' records in the two existing Pathology Services. An overall histologic verification of 80.76% is observed in the cases with an I.C. of +/- 4.79. In the case of BREAST, HEMATOLOGIC, OROPHARYNX, ENDOMETRIUM, ESOPHAGUS, OVARIAN, LARYNX and VULVA tumors, it is 100%. Whereas it is 14.3% in HEPATIC Tumors. Of the total of deaths registered in said year, the percentage of deaths caused by malignant neoplasias is over 26%, more than a fourth of which were Gastric. The preparation of the Death Certificates should be modified so that they can be objectively evaluated epidemiologically without bias or mistakes. PMID- 2519490 TI - [Epidemic outbreaks in the province of Albacete. 1987]. AB - A descriptive study has been made based on the epidemiologic data obtained from the "Outbreak Reports" during the year 1987 in the Province of Albacete. In this study the need to improve the quality of the data on outbreaks is emphasized. This would allow for programming concrete actions which would permit its future control. PMID- 2519491 TI - [Mortality in accidents in Spain: contrast of various statistical series]. AB - The data on deaths due to accidents in Spain during the period 1975-79 is analyzed and compared according to three routine sources of information: death certificates, codified, tabulated and presented by the National Statistics Institute (INE): traffic accident reports from the Directorate General of Traffic (DGT): and work-related accidents according to reports drawn up by the National Institute of Job Health and Safety. The comparison reveals that the data from death certificates are not useful for studying work-related accidents in Spain. As for traffic accidents, the death statistics bulletins offer a more thorough coverage, especially for children and elderly persons; nevertheless, the detailed reporting of the circumstances surrounding the accidents and the earliness with which this data is made available make it advisable to use the data from the General Directorate of Traffic for monitoring the overall tendencies of traffic accidents and for evaluating the effects of the prevention programmes. However, the death statistics bulletins permit the formulation of more thorough estimates of the population base and diverse areas of the country with regard to deaths caused by accidents. PMID- 2519492 TI - [Utilization of the ophthalmology service at the outpatient clinic of the "El Espanoleto" de Xativa Health Service of Valencia]. AB - This is a descriptive paper on the use of the Ophthalmology Service which operates from to 10 in the morning in the Valencia Outpatient Service, "El Espanoleto", of Xativa, Valencia. An average of 24.48 consultations are made daily, which average 4 minutos 54 seconds each. The general rate of consultations per individual health service card per month reaches a value of 0.024 consultations. 29.62% of the most frequently made diagnoses are for refraction, 26.54% unknown and 7.73% for presbytia. PMID- 2519493 TI - [The psychology of the tuberculosis patient in different historical periods and its repercussions in social life, art and customs]. PMID- 2519494 TI - [Giovanni Vailati and the history of science]. PMID- 2519495 TI - [The history of science in the thought of Federigo Enriques and Augusto Murri]. PMID- 2519496 TI - [Diabetes in the works of a Piedmontese physician--G. F. Arma da Chivasso--of the 16th century]. PMID- 2519497 TI - [Dr. Louis Destouches in the history of medicine, social medicine and occupational medicine]. PMID- 2519498 TI - [The truth of the wound of Dr. Louis Destouches alias Louis-Ferdinand Celine]. PMID- 2519499 TI - [The renewal of medical studies in the works of Gianfrancesco Cigna, physician and physicist of the 18th century]. PMID- 2519500 TI - [Giovanni Martinotti and experimental pancreatectomy, a century ago]. AB - On July 13th, 1888, Giovanni Martinotti (1857-1928) announced in Torino the feasibility of a total pancreatectomy in the dog. The essential details for a successful outcome of the operation, as described by Martinotti, were employed by Oscar Minkowski (1859-1931) in Strassburg for the demonstration of diabetes after total removal of pancreas in the dog, on May 22nd, 1889. Martinotti's work deserves a reevaluation in the history of diabetology. PMID- 2519501 TI - [The family myth]. AB - It is attempted to clarify the theoretical concept of family myth, as it is used in a clinical setting, inside of the experiences of systemic family therapy. Some points are specified: definition of myth, its origin and function within the family, beginning of suffering or pathology, request of help. PMID- 2519502 TI - [The usefulness of the family myth concept within the therapeutic process]. AB - In the three clinical histories reported in this paper, the connection between myth and relational pathology is definitely evident. In addition, strategic suggestions are made as to how to bring about positive changes in therapy by exploring the individual resources of each family member, unconsciously hidden in the effort to preserve the myth. The preliminary step, as shown by the case histories, emphasizes the role of the myth and the significant contributions it provided and is still providing to the whole family. PMID- 2519503 TI - [Oral fibroma and complete suction dentures: a clinical case]. PMID- 2519504 TI - [Lymph node biopsy in HIV-3-positive patients: the practical considerations]. AB - We propose a step-by-step procedure for biopsy of lymph nodes in patients carrying anti HIV 3 antibodies. The procedure involves the use of a fully disposable operating set and instruments. It was used in 57 cases spanning a two years trial. PMID- 2519505 TI - [Lymph node and cutaneous biopsies in AIDS treatment]. AB - In AIDS lymph node biopsy is important both for grading and for differential diagnosis. Skin biopsy is used for identifying Kaposi's sarcoma, which is present in about a third of AIDS cases. Authors have performed 69 biopsies in local anaesthesia taking the necessary precautions as for HBsAg-positive subjects. PMID- 2519506 TI - [Lymphangioma: the diagnostic and therapeutic problems]. PMID- 2519508 TI - [The fight against pain]. PMID- 2519507 TI - [Rare pathologies in plastic surgery: lymphangioma]. PMID- 2519509 TI - [The reduction of the maternal and neonatal risk based on a new outlook for care effected with the active involvement of the nuclear family in the pregnancy and labor]. AB - A socio-analytic investigation, showing mental images of health personnel and their influence on the course of pregnancy, child birth and child nursing has been performed at the Obstetrics and Neonatology Departments of Maria Vittoria Hospital, Torino, Italy. Through a statistical analysis on the mothers population during one year (1986 Nov-1987 Nov) a significant reduction of maternal delivery stress and neonatal risk has been found in relation to the "participation to the psycho-prophylactic courses" and to the "presence of fathers during delivery". Answers of mothers to a questionnaire are reported. This work points out the importance of a child birth's humanization. PMID- 2519510 TI - Value of observation of fetal breathing activity in antenatal assessment of high risk pregnancy. AB - While observation of fetal breathing movements has been used in fetal assessment, quantitative parameters (percent time spent in breathing [incidence], breath rate, or breath rate variability) have not been adequately evaluated as predictive tools. We examined 283 patients with high-risk pregnancies between 32 and 42 weeks' gestation and correlated their fetal breathing movement parameters with the rates of perinatal mortality, intrapartum fetal distress, neonatal acidosis, low 5-minute Apgar score, and intrauterine growth retardation. Fetal breathing data from standardized 60-minute biophysical tests were analyzed and compared with our institutional standards. Parameter values greater than 2 SD from the means of a previously studied normal population were considered abnormal. Whereas no individual parameter was a highly accurate predictor of adverse outcome, a fetal breathing movement incidence of less than 5% provided the best cutoff for diagnostic accuracy. Seventy percent of fetuses with 30 minutes of apnea had normal outcomes, whereas abnormally high breath rates (greater than 60 breaths/min) and low breath rates (less than 33 breaths/min) occurred with equal frequency among normal and pathologic fetuses. Breath interval variability was of no benefit in detecting fetuses with poor outcomes. Observation of fetal breathing movement incidence appeared to be most effective in pregnancies complicated by chronic hypertension and least effective in those with preeclampsia. PMID- 2519511 TI - Transplanted mesencephalic quail cells colonize selectively all primary visual nuclei of chick diencephalon: a study using heterotopic transplants. AB - A portion of the quail mesencephalic alar plate (10-12 somites embryos, second day of incubation) was heterotopically transplanted to replace a portion of the diencephalic alar plate of a similar stage chick embryo. Analysis of the chimeric embryos on day 18 of incubation was performed both by Feulgen and Rossenbeck histochemical staining to recognize the transplanted cells, and by cytoarchitectonic methods. The heterotopically transplanted neuroepithelia were integrated in the host pretectal area, although their precise location, substituting some missing host pretectal nuclei, varied slightly from case to case. The cytoarchitecture of the graft and its extension allowed to distinguish two types of transplants: in 50% of the cases the graft developed a laminated, tectal-like structure appearing as a supernumerary optic tectum, whereas in the other 50% of the cases it gave rise to a smaller, not well-defined, non-laminated structure, which could not be recognized as tectal. Independent of the extension and cytoarchitecture of the grafts, in all cases numerous transplanted quail cells were observed beyond the limits of the graft spreading along the optic tract, into all the retino-recipient diencephalic nuclei and into the mesencephalic tectal gray. Conversely, the host optic tectum and the non-primary visual nuclei, even those in close apposition to the transplant, were always devoid of transplanted cells. Analysis of 5- to 10-day-old chimeric embryos has shown that the ectopically located mesencephalic quail cells start migrating from the transplant on day 7 of incubation and follow a tangential pathway at the surface of the diencephalon, throughout the optic tract and between the optic tract and the incipient primary visual nuclei. On day 10, many of these cells have already invaded most of the host retino-recipient nuclei. These observations are discussed with respect to both the phenotypic expression of the transplanted primordium and the tangential migration of tectal cells previously observed in homotopically transplanted chimeric embryos. The possible significance of these results is also discussed. PMID- 2519513 TI - Cardiac arrest postoperatively in a patient infected with ascaris, the roundworm. PMID- 2519512 TI - Developmental expression of the protein product of Vg1, a localized maternal mRNA in the frog Xenopus laevis. AB - Vg1 is a maternal mRNA localized in the vegetal cortex of Xenopus laevis oocytes, that encodes a protein homologous to the mammalian growth factor TGF-beta. Using a polyclonal antibody to a T7-Vg1 fusion protein, we have identified the native protein. We find that a single protein of Mr 40 kd is immunoprecipitated following in vitro translation of oocyte poly(A)+ RNA, whilst two proteins of Mr 45 and 43.5 kd are immunoprecipitated from oocyte and embryo extracts. Synthesis of at least the 40 kd, in vitro, and 45 kd, in vivo, proteins is specifically inhibited following treatment of the respective systems with antisense Vg1 (but not histone H4) oligodeoxynucleotides. Tunicamycin treatment reveals the in vivo proteins to be glycosylated versions of a 40 kd protein, modified by the addition of either two or three N-linked oligosaccharide side chains. Both proteins are sensitive to digestion by the enzyme endoglycosidase-H, and are segregated within a membrane fraction from which they can be released by high pH treatment. Their synthesis is first detectable in stage IV oocytes and continues throughout early embryogenesis until the late gastrula. During embryogenesis the relative proportions of the two proteins change, the 45 kd protein being predominant in early embryogenesis and the 43.5 kd protein in late embryogenesis. Synthesis only occurs in the vegetal hemisphere at all stages; however, in the large oocyte diffusion of both proteins into the animal hemisphere occurs. PMID- 2519514 TI - The comparative in vitro activity of ofloxacin and selected ophthalmic antimicrobial agents against ocular bacterial isolates. AB - The in vitro activity of ofloxacin, a new fluoroquinolone anti-infective agent, was evaluated against 419 ocular bacterial isolates of 55 species to determine its potential as a topical agent for the treatment of ocular infections. Other agents tested in this study, in which a modified tube-dilution procedure was used, include norfloxacin, gentamicin, tobramycin, chloramphenicol, and polymyxin B. Ofloxacin demonstrated good to excellent activity against a variety of gram positive and gram-negative pathogens. The minimum inhibitory concentration against 90% of all bacterial strains tested (MIC90) of ofloxacin was 0.5 microgram/ml for Staphylococcus aureus and S. epidermidis, 2 micrograms/ml for Streptococcus pneumoniae, and 4 micrograms/ml for Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These species were more susceptible to ofloxacin than to any of the nonquinolones tested. The MIC90 of ofloxacin was lower than that of norfloxacin, another quinolone, against S. aureus, S. epidermidis, and St. pneumoniae and equal to that of norfloxacin against P. aeruginosa. Because of its broad spectrum of activity and excellent in vitro activity, we concluded that ofloxacin has the potential for development into a superior topical treatment for ocular infection. PMID- 2519515 TI - The biology of the SCID mutation. PMID- 2519516 TI - A mechanism for cross-lineage gene rearrangements in B-cell neoplasm. AB - The organization of immunoglobulin heavy chain (IgH) gene of B precursor cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) was examined in order to elucidate the mechanism causing simultaneous TCR gene rearrangements. Study using a 5'D probe lying 20 kb upstream of IgH D region genes was useful to distinguish diversity(D) joining(J) recombination(DJ) from variable(V)-DJ recombination(VDJ). Indeed, IgH gene structures determined by 5'D study well correlated to those recognized by DJ or VDJ transcripts. IgH gene rearrangements of B precursor cell ALL showed developmentally restricted gene recombination; DJ/DJ genotype in the most immature stage and VDJ/VDJ genotype in the relatively mature stage. B precursor cell ALL with simultaneous rearrangements were frequently found in relatively mature cells, i.e., CD20 expressing cells on their surface. Furthermore, most of such dual genotypic ALL showed that at least one allele of IgH genes was VDJ recombination. This finding suggests that dual genotype was the incidental product by a putative common recombinase during the process of VH gene rearrangements. Moreover, since IgH gene rearrangements of acute unclassified leukemia with dual genotype were DQ52 genotype, which indicates abortive gene rearrangements, it was also thought that dual genotype occurred due to the pluripotentiality of the stem cell. PMID- 2519517 TI - Intraretinal transplantation for rod-cell replacement in light-damaged retinas. AB - Blindness from retinal disease is often the consequence of extensive damage to the photoreceptor cell population, while other cell types which form the neural retina are relatively spared. In this setting, transplantation of photoreceptor cells could offer hope for the restoration of some degree of visual function. We tested the feasibility of this approach by transplanting immature retinal cells into the eyes of adult rats affected by late stage phototoxic retinopathy, which are almost totally devoid of photoreceptor cells. Dissociated neuroretinal cells from newborn rats were injected into the hosts' retinas. These cells were labelled with the fluorescent tracer Fast-blue for identification within the host eye. Survival time ranged from 3 to 100 post-transplantation days. Fundus examination of light-irradiated eyes showed pallor caused by a considerable reduction of the retino-choroidal vascular bed after light irradiation. Histologically the hosts exhibited decimation of the elements forming the outer layers throughout the entire retina. As visualized by light and electron microscopic procedures, we report the differentiation of clusters of transplanted photoreceptor cells, and the integration of these cells within the adjacent areas of the host retina. Fluorescence microscopy showed these clusters to be formed by fluorescently labelled cells developing in intimate contact with the unlabelled host retina. Electron microscopically it was possible to determine that these photoreceptors had established synaptic contacts. These observations indicate that successful transplantation of immature retinal cells is feasible into adult eyes that have suffered extensive retino-choroidal damage. These findings also support the concept that retinal transplantation is a procedure which may open new avenues into the study of retinal repair. PMID- 2519518 TI - Removal and reimplantation of the parietal cortex of mice during the first nine days of life: consequences for the barrelfield. AB - Vibrissal follicles on one side of the mouse whiskerpad are topologically connected to barrels in the contralateral somatosensory cortex. Barre's develop from postnatal day 3 to 6. Recently, I have observed that the barrelfields still develop in pieces of parietal cortex that were removed and reimplanted, in the same place and with the original orientation, on the day of birth, or on postnatal days 1 or 3. Now, two questions were asked: (i) Can the barrelfield form and/or remain in place after interrupting thalamocortical connections at different ages (from birth to postnatal day 9)? (ii) How does the cortex behave, in terms of cellular layers, after the interruption of thalamocortical connections? To answer these questions the parietal cortex was removed and reimplanted in the same place with the original orientation, in 79 mice from a C3H strain. Fifty-one mice survived and were processed for histology. Their brains were cut coronally to facilitate the identification of the limits of the reimplanted cortex and of its cellular layering. In 29 cases the reimplanted cortex could be identified, and in 17 cases barrel-like structures had developed. The "barrelfields" were obtained from coronal sections of each piece of reimplanted cortex, by means of a computer program which permitted reconstructing these pieces of cortex and rotating them in space. In this way, barrel-like structures and "barrelfields" could be visualized as if obtained from sections made tangential to the parietal cortex. "Barrelfields" were found in pieces of cortex reimplanted at different ages up to postnatal day 9. Cortical layers appeared to be more close to normal in cases operated after postnatal day 5. PMID- 2519519 TI - Supranumerary barrels develop in the somatosensory cortex of mice, after the implantation of the vibrissal follicle parts containing large numbers of receptors. AB - In the mouse whiskerpad there is a group of vibrissal follicles arranged in five rows, which are topologically represented in the contralateral somatosensory cortex by the barrelfield. Each vibrissal follicle is a specialized sensory organ containing a large number of receptors, mostly Merkel cells. In these experiments, the parts of the vibrissal follicles containing most of the receptors were transplanted to different regions of the whiskerpad of newborn mice, to know whether "new", supranumerary barrels could develop. The results confirm this hypothesis. However, the "new" barrels are not topologically represented in the barrelfield, as normal barrels do. PMID- 2519520 TI - Tissue culture models of myelination after oligodendrocyte transplantation. AB - Studies of myelination after transplantation of mature oligodendrocytes to cerebellar cultures in which oligodendrocyte maturation and myelination had been irreversibly inhibited by exposure to cytosine arabinoside were reviewed. Transplanted oligodendrocytes were derived from three sources, including cerebellar explants treated with kainic acid, dissociated oligodendrocyte cultures, and optic nerve fragments. Oligodendrocytes from all sources migrated into the host explants and myelinated appropriate axons. The time of appearance of myelin and the percentage of host cultures myelinated differed for the three sources of oligodendrocytes, however. Myelin was visible earliest and in the highest percentage of host explants transplanted with cultured dissociated oligodendrocytes, which were presumably the most free to migrate into the host tissue, and latest and in the lowest percentage of host cultures transplanted with optic nerve, from which oligodendrocytes were presumably least free to migrate. Some myelin-like membranes unassociated with axons appeared in cerebellar cultures transplanted with cultured dissociated oligodendrocytes, and not in cerebellar explants transplanted with oligodendrocytes from other sources. The formation of such myelin-like membranes was interpreted as a manifestation of oligodendrocyte hyperreactivity induced by culture in isolation. PMID- 2519521 TI - Immunization of rats with cholinergic neurons induces behavioral deficits. AB - We have previously shown that sera from patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) contain a significantly high level of antibodies to the cell bodies (Perikarya; PK) but not to the nerve terminals (synaptosomes) of purely cholinergic neurons from the electric fish Torpedo. In the present study we examined the effect of repeated immunization of rats with either of these antigens for one year. Immunoblot studies revealed that sera of cholinergic PK immunized rats contained a high level of antibodies to cholinergic PK proteins, in particular to a 200 kilodalton protein, to which there are specifically high levels of antibodies in AD. Sera from rats immunized with cholinergic synaptosomes and from control rats contained very low levels of these antibodies. Behavioral studies performed one year after the initial immunization revealed that the cholinergic PK immunized rats were impaired in spatial learning and memory tasks (Morris swim test and T maze alternation) when compared to control rats and that the synaptosome immunized rats showed no such deficit. In contrast, the three groups performed similarly in general activity, active avoidance and conditioned emotional response tests. Further experiments revealed that the cholinergic PK immunized rats displayed a significant deficit in short term memory. The association of antibodies to cholinergic neurons with cognitive deficits in this rat model suggests that such antibodies may be involved in the pathogenesis of AD. PMID- 2519522 TI - A rural retrieval service. AB - In rural areas critically ill patients are transferred frequently from smaller to larger hospitals. The time spent in transit may influence their outcome. Intensive care facilities in the Central Western Health Region of N.S.W. are located at The Orange Base Hospital and many of the patients admitted to that unit each year are transferred from other hospitals. Since 1984 The Orange Base Hospital, with the N.S.W. Ambulance Service, has offered a retrieval service, and during the three years 1984-86, 135 patients have been retrieved. The service has been well accepted, the only major criticism from the referring hospitals being the extra time taken for some patients suffering from trauma to receive definitive treatment. By improving communications and developing a regional plan, this difficulty may to some extent by overcome. PMID- 2519523 TI - Bites and stings. Part 2. Bees and vespids. PMID- 2519524 TI - Give me continuity or give me death. PMID- 2519525 TI - A continuity theory of normal aging. AB - Continuity Theory holds that, in making adaptive choices, middle-aged and older adults attempt to preserve and maintain existing internal and external structures; and they prefer to accomplish this objective by using strategies tied to their past experiences of themselves and their social world. Change is linked to the person's perceived past, producing continuity in inner psychological characteristics as well as in social behavior and in social circumstances. Continuity is thus a grand adaptive strategy that is promoted by both individual preference and social approval. PMID- 2519526 TI - Genome analysis. PMID- 2519527 TI - Patients presenting with thin melanomas (less than 0.76 mm thick) who subsequently have a poor prognosis by development of metastases. PMID- 2519528 TI - Treating hypercholesterolemia. How should practicing physicians interpret the published data for patients? PMID- 2519529 TI - Pimper pimped. PMID- 2519530 TI - Prednisone and cyclosporine in the treatment of severe Graves' ophthalmopathy. AB - It is uncertain what is the most appropriate medical therapy for patients with severe Graves' ophthalmopathy. Therefore, we carried out a single-blind, randomized clinical trial to compare the efficacy of prednisone with that of cyclosporine in 36 patients who had been euthyroid for at least two months. The two groups, each consisting of 18 patients, were similar in age, sex, and the duration and severity of ophthalmopathy. The initial dose of cyclosporine was 7.5 mg per kilogram of body weight per day, and that of prednisone was 60 mg per day, which was subsequently tapered to 20 mg per day. During the 12-week treatment period, 11 prednisone-treated and 4 cyclosporine-treated patients responded to therapy (61 percent vs. 22 percent; P = 0.018); response was manifested by decreases in eye-muscle enlargement and proptosis and improved visual acuity and total and subjective eye scores. There were no differences at base line between the patients who later responded and those who did not. Prednisone was tolerated less well than cyclosporine. After 12 weeks, patients who did not respond were treated for another 12 weeks with a combination of cyclosporine and a low dose of prednisone. Among the 9 patients who initially received prednisone, the addition of cyclosporine resulted in improvement in 5 (56 percent); among the 13 patients who received cyclosporine initially, 8 (62 percent) improved after the addition of prednisone. Combination therapy was better tolerated than prednisone treatment alone. We conclude that single-drug therapy with prednisone is more effective than cyclosporine in patients with severe Graves' ophthalmopathy. The combination can be effective in patients who do not respond to either drug alone. PMID- 2519531 TI - Use of alcohol among high school students in Lesotho. AB - Data on alcohol consumption, attitudes to and knowledge of alcohol were collected by means of questionnaires from 1133 high school students aged 11-22 years in Lesotho. Additional data were obtained by means of classroom discussion and 13 in depth interviews. About half of the students (54% of the boys and 42% of the girls) had drunk alcohol at some point in their lives. Drinking was found to be related to age, sex, drinking of friends, family income, and drinking in the family. No indication of widespread alcohol abuse was found, but about half of the students (drinkers and non-drinkers) believed that moderate drinking is impossible and that the fun of drinking is to get drunk, indicating the possibility of alcohol abuse in the future. The results have implications for future research and for preventive work among youth and adults in Lesotho. PMID- 2519532 TI - Surface alteration during blade implant modification. PMID- 2519533 TI - Comparison of computerized tomography (CT) generated model with its mandibular and maxillary bone; 1: In vitro study utilizing dry mandibles. PMID- 2519535 TI - Steroids and the reduction of pain, edema and dysfunction in implant dentistry. PMID- 2519536 TI - In vivo histologic study of ion sputter coated hydroxylapatite Core-Vent dental implants. PMID- 2519534 TI - Comparison of CT generated model with its mandibular and maxillary bone; 2: In vivo study utilizing rasterstereographic technique. PMID- 2519537 TI - Retrospective observations on the influence of bone type in determining the nature of bone implant interface. PMID- 2519538 TI - Coroner's Report: circumstances of a death related to implant surgery procedures. PMID- 2519539 TI - Combined vital dye labelling and catecholamine histofluorescence of transplanted ciliary ganglion cells. AB - We have utilized the carbocyanine dye, DiI, to label suspensions of dissociated ciliary ganglion cells removed from 6 to 12 day old quail embryos. Some of the cells were injected into the trunk somites of 2.5-3 day old chick embryos along pathways where neural crest cells migrate to form sensory and sympathetic ganglia, aortic plexuses and the adrenal medulla; the remainder of the cells were cultured to check their viability and the persistence of the DiI label. Embryos were incubated for 1-8 days post-injection, fixed in 4% paraformaldehyde/0.25% glutaraldehyde and processed for cryostat sectioning. DiI-labelled cells were readily identifiable in culture and in sections of embryos at all stages examined. Several cell types were identified, based on their morphology and soma size. These included cells with large cell bodies and bright DiI-labelling that appeared to be neurons and smaller, more weakly labelled cells that appeared non neuronal. The latter presumably had divided several times, accounting for their reduced levels of dye. Many of the DiI-labelled cells were found in and around neural crest-derived sympathetic ganglia, aortic plexuses and adrenomedullary cords, but were rarely observed in dorsal root ganglia. The aldehyde fixative (Faglu mixture) used in this study reacts with catecholamines to form a bright reaction product in adrenergic cells including those in the sympathetic ganglia and the adrenal medulla. The catecholamine biproduct and the DiI in the same cell can easily be viewed with different fluorescent filter sets. A variable number of the DiI-labelled cells in these adrenergic sites contained catecholamines. Cells derived from younger 6 day ciliary ganglion dissociates exhibited detectable catecholamine neurotransmitters earlier and more frequently than those derived from 8 day embryos. The presence of cells exhibiting both bright DiI and catecholamine fluorescence is consistent with previous indications that post mitotic ciliary ganglion neurons can undergo phenotypic conversion from cholinergic to adrenergic when transplanted to the trunk environment. PMID- 2519540 TI - Deficits in beam-walking after neonatal motor cortical lesions are not spared by fetal cortical transplants in rats. AB - Adult rats that sustained unilateral motor cortical lesions at birth demonstrated deficits in traversing an elevated narrow beam. These deficits, manifested by hindlimb slips off the edge of the beam, were not spared in animals that received fetal cortical transplants into the lesion cavity immediately after lesion placement. PMID- 2519541 TI - The use of bromodeoxyuridine-immunohistochemistry to identify transplanted fetal brain tissue. AB - The immunohistochemical detection of the thymidine analog, 5-bromo-2' deoxyuridine (BrdU) is shown to be a useful and reliable method to positively identify fetal brain transplants in standard histological preparations. This technique offers several advantages over the [3H]thymidine autoradiographic method, including being much more rapid and avoiding the use of radionuclides. PMID- 2519542 TI - Immunological approaches to tumor therapy. Monoclonal antibodies, tumor vaccines, and anti-idiotypes. PMID- 2519543 TI - Killing of human tumor cells by antibody C3b conjugates and human complement. AB - To potentiate the lytic action of complement on tumor cells, we have constructed heteroconjugates composed of monoclonal antibody and of the human C3b component of complement. The conjugates were formed efficiently using the heterobifunctional cross-linking reagent SPDP. The monoclonal antibody-C3b conjugate promoted the killing of K562 tumor cells by normal human serum. Treatment of the tumor cells with the monoclonal antibody and normal human serum resulted in 10-15% lysis. However, following pretreatment of the cells with antibody-C3b conjugates, their lysis by normal human serum increased to 70%. The conjugate activated selectively the alternative pathway of complement and the C3b component in the conjugate was highly resistant to cleavage and inactivation by the complement regulatory proteins Factors H and I. These results suggest that the coupling of C3b molecules to monoclonal antibodies anti-unique tumor antigens produces a potent complement-activating reagent which may act specifically on tumor cells and promote cancer therapy. PMID- 2519544 TI - Marrow purging for autologous bone marrow transplantation. PMID- 2519545 TI - Diagnostic and therapeutic procedures with haptens and glycoproteins (antigens and antibodies) coupled covalently by specific sites to insoluble supports. PMID- 2519546 TI - A highly sensitive EIA utilizing covalent conjugate of a polymerized enzyme and an antibody. PMID- 2519547 TI - Immobilization of antigens and antibodies on chromium dioxide magnetic particles for use in immunodiagnostic assays. PMID- 2519548 TI - Use of coated latex particles for identification and localization of Candida albicans cell surface receptors and for detection of related circulating antigens and/or antibodies in patient sera and urine. PMID- 2519549 TI - Biochemical engineering of immunotoxins for ex vivo bone marrow transplantation and in vivo leukemia treatment. PMID- 2519550 TI - Monoclonal antibody 791T/36 immunoconjugates for cancer treatment. PMID- 2519551 TI - Preclinical studies with immunoconjugates. PMID- 2519553 TI - Performance logic. A new horizon in the delivery of dental care. PMID- 2519552 TI - Radioimmunoscintigraphy and radioimmunotherapy in nude mouse models. Studies with site-specifically modified monoclonal antibodies. AB - Site-specific covalent modification of monoclonal antibodies at the oligosaccharide offers advantages over more conventional modification processes that involve direct attachment at tyrosine, lysine or glutamic/aspartic acid side chains. Using the site-specific modification process, attachment sites on the antibody are distal to the antigen-binding region. Thus, homogeneity of antigen binding properties and affinity for the unmodified protein are preserved. Furthermore, higher derivatization ratios with no resultant loss of immunoreactivity can be achieved for monoclonal antibodies modified at the oligosaccharide. In vivo biodistribution and tumor localization studies in nude mouse models suggest that antibodies radiolabeled at their oligosaccharide might represent improved immunoscintigraphic reagents. In a variety of tumor xenograft models, site-specific modified 111In-labeled antibody conjugates localized to the tumor site with little non-specific localization in other tissues or organs. The degree of localization at the target site was substantially greater than that of 111In-labeled antibodies directly modified at the tyrosine side chain. Preliminary studies with 212Bi- and 90Y-labeled antibodies modified at the oligosaccharide indicate that both of these radioisotopes have immunotherapeutic potential. Because of its preferential uptake by the kidney, the use of 212Bi may be best suited for tumors localized within the peritoneal cavity, such as ovarian and colorectal carcinomas. The toxicity of 90Y at high specific activities suggests that a regimen of repeated smaller doses of this radioisotope is best suited for therapeutic use. Studies in tumor-bearing mouse models are currently underway to better define the optimal dosage and administration regimens for both of these radioisotopes when attached to site-specific modified antibodies. PMID- 2519554 TI - Nutrition and periodontics. A simplified, practical approach to nutrition's role in periodontal health. PMID- 2519555 TI - Oral health and aging. PMID- 2519556 TI - The return of the IUD. PMID- 2519557 TI - Certification. PMID- 2519558 TI - Transcervical resection of endometrium. PMID- 2519559 TI - Bleeding and anticoagulation. PMID- 2519560 TI - The influence of advertising on tobacco consumption: some problems with Chetwynd et al.'s analysis. AB - In a recent study of the relationship between cigarette advertising and the aggregate consumption of cigarettes in New Zealand between 1973 and 1985, Chetwynd et al. (1988) argue that quarterly data suggest that advertising affects overall consumption of cigarettes with an elasticity of +0.07. In addition, they argue that advertising has a 'carry over' effect of about four quarters on current consumption. These results are potentially important for two reasons. Although the evidence is mixed, the conventional view is that cigarette advertising affects brand choice among smokers but not aggregate demand for cigarettes. Chetwynd et al.'s results, (hereafter, Chetwynd) contradict this traditional view. Secondly, if advertising does increase the aggregate demand for cigarettes, then a public policy banning cigarette advertising might reduce aggregate demand for cigarettes. Unfortunately, the Chetwynd, study is sufficiently flawed with conceptual and econometric problems that their inference that advertising increases cigarette demand is questionable. Certainly cigarette advertising may increase or decrease cigarette consumption. The point we wish to make is that, any inference one way or the other based on the results of Chetwynd, cannot be viewed as well-grounded in either scientific methodology or statistical principles. PMID- 2519561 TI - On the pattern of ameloblast migration. AB - The kinetics of ameloblast cells in continuously growing guinea pig molars were studied using autoradiography. The results showed that there was no direct relationship between ameloblast migration rate and ameloblast production rate, which indicated that ameloblasts actively migrated coronally. It was found that ameloblast migration rate was maximal at the root apex, and then reduced to a minimum value as the ameloblasts left their proliferative compartment and migrated coronally. A multiple regression model was found to be the most suitable one to represent the ameloblast migration pattern. PMID- 2519562 TI - Aplasia cutis congenita associated with congenital heart defect, not a coincidence? PMID- 2519563 TI - [The construction and validation of a questionnaire on the satisfaction of primary health care users]. AB - The questionnaire was developed after establishing the domains that might be measured with it and selecting 16 items. During June and September 1987 it was administered to 163 patients, selected by quota sampling, who belonged to two health centers and two outpatient clinics from the city of Almeria. With the obtained data several parts of the questionnaire were validated: stability, homogeneity, distorting variables and constructed validity. There were significant differences (analysis of variance) between the satisfaction of the users of health centers and outpatient clinics (p = 0.042) (higher satisfaction in health centers). There were not marked differences between the users of both health centers (p = 0.144) and between both outpatient clinics (p = 0.66). The measurement of satisfaction is a valuable instrument for the investigation and administration of health services and a good indicator of the quality of care. PMID- 2519564 TI - Intra-ocular pressure and rapid sequence induction of anaesthesia. PMID- 2519565 TI - Alfentanil partition coefficient. PMID- 2519566 TI - Prolonged remission of lymphangitis carcinomatosis from breast cancer. PMID- 2519567 TI - Leg ulcers: collecting the facts. PMID- 2519568 TI - Epidural drug spread: in support of incremental titration. PMID- 2519569 TI - Medicines that cost less over the counter. PMID- 2519570 TI - Some aspects of the dynamics of ovarian follicular growth in the human. AB - The entire follicular population of large numbers of normal human ovaries was studied along the three stages: initiation of the growth phase, the tonic growth phase and the gonadotropin dependent phase of follicular growth. Morphometric data enabled the Author to construct a theoretical model, describing the progression of ovarian follicles from the resting phase to the ovulatory phase. The Author stresses the theoretical nature of this model and the need of more thorough studies. Some remarks may at the moment be derived from these studies in order to improve our understanding of the action of the hyperstimulation protocols used for IVF. PMID- 2519571 TI - Immunological problems in the recurrent abortion syndrome. AB - The recurrent abortion syndrome has been considered a serious obstetrical problem, since it was not possible to diagnose the causes in over 40% of the cases. Great progress has now been made with the knowledge of the immunological mechanisms involved in the maintenance of pregnancy. The disorders of such immunological mechanisms, both due to auto- or alloimmune problems, are demonstrated in about 40% of the cases of recurrent abortions. The Authors have studied a group of 56 patients with recurrent abortion syndrome in a complex diagnostic work-up involving: 1) The research of an autoimmune cause; 2) The research of the presence of the Blocking-factors by means of one-way mixed lymphocyte cultures; 3) The research of an altered antipaternal lymphocytotoxic activity or of an excessive HLA-sharing. According to the results of the investigations, several forms of therapeutic management have been used: 1) Steroids-aspirin-calcic heparin for Autoimmune cases. 2) Active immunotherapy for the cases due to the lack of blocking factors. 3) Calcic heparin for the altered antipaternal lymphocytotoxic activity. At the moment it is difficult to evaluate the results of pregnancy rate with this type of therapeutic management because of the too short follow-up. PMID- 2519572 TI - Measurement of glucuronometabolites of 17 beta-estradiol and progesterone in early morning urine samples: a promising new method for the evaluation of hormonal responses of Buserelin-hMG treatment in an IVF program. AB - The success of IVF is related to the number and quality of embryos transferred. In our IVF program we have used two different protocols for superovulation induction. In this study a group of 35 patients was randomized into two groups; the first group (15 patients) was treated with pure FSH and hMG, in the other (20 patients) the normal pituitary function was inhibited with Buserelin before the stimulation with hMG. Ovarian stimulation was monitored by ultrasound examination and endocrine parameters. The RIA determination of 17-beta estradiol (17-E2) plasmatic levels is one of the most widely used techniques in IVF cycle monitoring; however many serious disadvantages are connected with the use of RIA (short half-life of the reagents; hazard of handling radioactive materials; frequent venipunctures for the patients). For these reasons, we propose a chemiluminescence immuno assay (LIA) method for the measurement of glucuronometabolites of 17-E2 and progesterone in early morning urine samples: this technique allows to follow hormonal levels for all the cycle, avoiding patient discomfort. We have found a highly significant correlation between serum and urinary hormonal values. We noted a marked variability in the individual estrogenic response and a significant difference in the response of the two groups. The mean peak on hCG administration day was 6.4 +/- 3.5 micrograms/h for urinary E1-3G and 1270 +/- 678 pg/ml for 17-E2 in Buserelin-hMG group: these hormonal levels appear lower than without ovarian desensitization; (in FSH-hMG group we have, on the same day, 9.7 +/- 3.2 micrograms/h for E1-3G and 1630 +/- 730 pg/ml for serum 17-E2).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2519573 TI - Luteal phase endometrial cytosol and nuclear progesterone receptors in infertile women. AB - Progesterone receptor (PR) concentrations in cell nuclei (PRn), in cytosols (PRc) and a percentage of PRn, plasma progesterone level (P) and histological endometrium dating in the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle were studied in three groups of patients. In the control group (group "A"-17 patients) there were infertile patients with normal levels of plasma P and histological dating of the endometrium corresponding to the actual day of the menstrual cycle. In group "B" (7 patients) there were infertile patients with normal plasma P levels and delayed histological finding of the endometrium for 2 or more days (mean 3.3 days)--"pseudocorpus luteum insufficiency". In group "C" there were 3 patients with delayed secretory transformation of the endometrium and low plasma P level (luteal phase defect). In group "B" there was lower concentration of the total PR (for 305.5 fmol/mg DNA), PRc (for 536.8 fmol/mg DNA), higher concentration of PRn (for 233.4 fmol/mg DNA) and for 20.5% higher percentage of PRn, but these values are not significantly different from those in the control group. In group "C" there were higher concentrations of the total PR and percentage of PRn but the sample was too small to permit statistical comparison. On the basis of these results we cannot conclude if in "pseudocorpus luteum insufficiency" a decreased sensitivity of the endometrium is due to the P, or is functional in nature. It will be necessary to continue our work on a larger number of patients and also to study changes in PR concentrations in the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle. PMID- 2519574 TI - Controlled ovarian hyperstimulation for the new reproductive technologies. AB - The aim of controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) is to induce multiple morphologically and functionally adequate follicles with the aim of harvesting multiple fertilizable oocytes. We compared several treatment regimens with different FSH/LH ratios: group I was the basic 2 human menopausal gonadotropins (2hMG) protocol in which 2 ampules of hMG were administered starting on day 3 of the cycle; group II was the basic 2hMG in which 2 ampules of "pure" follicle stimulating hormone (p-FSH) were added on day 3 and 4; group III was the 2 FSH protocol in which 2 ampules of p-FSH were administered beginning on day 3; finally, group IV was the 4FSH: 4 ampules of p-FSH on day 3 and 4 followed by 2 ampules of p-FSH daily. The reference regimen was the 2hMG. Except for the higher rate of immature oocytes in 2FSH and 2hMG protocols, the number of preovulatory oocytes and fertilization rate were similar in all protocols. No differences occurred in the pregnancy outcome. The low dose Lupron (LDL) stimulation was an experimental protocol applied to two groups of women who had previously failed COH. Eight women who had a premature luteinization and 8 women who showed a low response agreed to participate in the protocol. Ten micrograms of the GnRH agonist leuprolide acetate (Lupron) were injected subcutaneously every 6 hours starting on cycle day 2 and menotropin stimulation was begun on day 3-5, according to individual patient response. The LDL protocol was successful in determining a favourable estradiol pattern and fertilizable oocytes. PMID- 2519575 TI - Induction of ovulation in a thalassaemic patient. PMID- 2519576 TI - Co-culture: the future for embryo development in vitro. AB - Important interactions occur between the somatic cells of the oviduct and the developing embryo, during the later stages of pre-attachment development. In these stages secretions from the oviduct are very important in conferring viability on the embryos, especially plasmatic proteins and proteins secreted by the oviduct cells. The oviduct secretions obtained at various stages of the oestrus cycle have now been tested for potential growth factors. If an active fraction of the oviduct secretion is identified, the potential embryotrophic factor(s) will be characterized and produced on a large scale so that culture medium can be supplemented. PMID- 2519577 TI - The disconnected visual system mutations in Drosophila melanogaster drastically disrupt circadian rhythms. AB - Mutations at the disconnected (disco) locus in Drosophila melanogaster cause cultures of this insect to eclose in an essentially arrhythmic manner and also nearly eliminate free-running circadian rhythms of locomotor activity. Yet disco mutants are not totally light-insensitive: Whereas they performed very poorly in tests of certain behavioral responses to visual stimuli, they were able to exhibit "forced" periodic locomotor activity under conditions of light-dark cycling. We discuss these results in the context of (1) the dispensability of this insect's external photoreceptors for entrainment of its circadian pacemaker, and (2) possible disco-induced abnormalities in the connections of extraocular photoreceptors to their targets in the central nervous system and/or abnormalities in the targets themselves--which presumably include elements of the fly's circadian clock. PMID- 2519578 TI - Masking of circadian activity rhythms in canaries by light and dark. AB - Canaries (Serinus canaria) were kept singly in cages placed in an artificially illuminated, soundproof cabinet. Perch-hopping activity was recorded by means of a computer system. In three series of experiments, the activity rhythms of the birds were entrained to 24 hr by light-dark (LD) cycles with 4, 12, or 20 hr of light (L), respectively. The intensity of illumination was 10 lux in L and 0.25 lux in darkness (D). Under LD 4:20 and 12:12, the intensity of D was increased daily at the same zeitgeber time to 1 lux for 1 hr (L pulse) during about 8 consecutive days. This sequence was followed by 8 days without L pulses before giving another series of L pulses at a different zeitgeber time. Under LD 20:4, the intensity of L was decreased to 1 lux for 1 hr (D pulse). The activity of all birds was more or less increased by the L pulses (positive masking) and decreased by the D pulses (negative masking). The level of masking activity during the L and D pulses depended on the circadian phase at which the pulses were administered. Positive masking by L pulses was minimal about 5 hr after the beginning of D, and increased steadily thereafter. Negative masking by D pulses was maximal at the beginning and the end of L, and minimal during the middle. PMID- 2519579 TI - Effects of induced wheel running on the circadian activity rhythms of Syrian hamsters: entrainment and phase response curve. AB - The goal of this study was to provide an example of nonsocial and nonphotic entrainment in Syrian hamsters, together with a corresponding phase response curve (PRC). Fourteen male hamsters were given 2-hr bouts of induced activity (mostly wheel running) at 23.83-hr intervals in constant darkness (DD). The activity onsets of 10 hamsters entrained to this manipulation, with no anticipatory activity present. After entrainment, the rhythms resumed free running from a time 0.66-3.91 hr after the onset of the last bout of induced activity. Postentrainment free-running periods were shorter than pre-entrainment values. The PRC for 2-hr pulses of induced activity in DD revealed phase advances induced in some animals between circadian time (CT) 4 and CT 11 (approximately the last half of the hamsters' rest period), and delays between CT 23 and CT 3 and between CT 17 and CT 20. The CTs for phase advances are compatible with the phase angle differences observed between rhythm and zeitgeber at the end of entrainment. Many features of the results (not all animals entraining, PRC characteristics, lack of observable anticipation to the daily stimuli, phase relationship between zeitgeber and activity rhythms) are similar to those from a previous study on social entrainment in this species (Mrosovsky, 1988). These similarities reinforce the idea that induced activity and social zeitgebers act on activity rhythms via a common mechanism. PMID- 2519580 TI - Food-deprivation-induced phase shifts in Sminthopsis macroura froggatti. AB - Past research has shown that there is a circadian oscillator in laboratory rats that is entrained by restricted feeding schedules. However, in laboratory rats at least, the light-dark (LD) cycle is the dominant zeitgeber in the entrainment of wheel-running activity rhythms. Given that dasyurid marsupials are predominantly carnivorous, the episodic intake of food in the wild and the high nutritive content of that food suggest that food may be an important zeitgeber in these species. Twelve Sminthopsis macroura froggatti were presented with a daily meal at 0900 hr under an LD 12:12 cycle with lights-on at 0600 hr for 37 days. Activity in anticipation of the meal was observed in most animals. Following this, all animals were exposed to periods of 12-18 days ad lib. food interspersed with 3-day periods of deprivation--a technique used previously to demonstrate persistent meal-associated rhythms. The meal-associated activity rhythms previously observed in rats during the 3-day deprivation period were not seen, but the 3-day deprivation period produced large phase-shifts in the activity rhythms of several S.m. froggatti. It is concluded that meal feeding does not dominate the LD cycle in entraining dasyurid marsupials, but that the frequent observation of phase shifts suggests a different and, perhaps, stronger role for food intake in biological rhythmicity than has been observed previously in laboratory rats. PMID- 2519581 TI - Photoperiodic influences on sexual behavior in male Syrian hamsters. AB - The effect of photoperiodic conditions on sexual behavior was investigated in male Syrian hamsters that were either gonadally intact, or castrated and treated with low doses of testosterone throughout the experiment. Hamsters were exposed to long (LD 16:8) or short (LD 8:16) days for 7 weeks; for the next 8 weeks, either they were exposed to an intermediate daylength (LD 12:12), or daylength conditions remained unchanged. Sexual behavior was affected by photoperiod conditions in both gonadally intact animals and testosterone-treated castrates, but to different degrees. Intact males exposed to short days for 15 weeks exhibited gonadal regression, and their copulatory performance was impaired. The percentage of animals that intromitted or ejaculated was significantly reduced. Additional measures of sexual performance among the copulating males were also affected. In contrast, among the castrates with testosterone clamped at low but stable levels, the proportion of males that mounted, intromitted, or ejaculated was not affected by photoperiod. However, among the males that continued to copulate, sexual performance changes were present in the short-day castrates that resembled those displayed by the intact males. We infer that these behavioral effects in both hormonal conditions reflect primarily a difficulty in the attainment of intromission. Gonadal regression alone cannot easily account for the behavioral deficits of the intact males, because circulating testosterone levels at the end of the experiment were not significantly different between the gonadally intact hamsters and the castrated, testosterone-treated hamsters exposed continuously to short days. Males transferred from either long or short days to the intermediate-daylength condition responded behaviorally to this photoperiod as if it were a short day, that is, their ejaculatory frequency declined. We conclude that male hamsters exposed to photoinhibitory daylengths exhibit deficits in their sexual behavior, not only because endogenous levels of testosterone decrease, but also because the substrates on which this hormone acts become less responsive. We hypothesize that under physiological conditions, the episodic secretion of testosterone imposes constraints on the maintenance or restoration of copulation, and that the potent behavioral effects achieved by constant-release implants of testosterone may mask the presence of photoperiodically induced alterations in the hamster's sensitivity to this gonadal hormone. PMID- 2519582 TI - Knife cuts lateral but not dorsal to the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus abolish gonadal responses to photoperiod in female hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus). AB - Horizontal and parasagittal knife cuts in the hypothalamus of female hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus) were employed to investigate the neural pathways that mediate gonadal responses to photoperiod. Bilateral horizontal knife cuts placed dorsal to the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) did not prevent short-day-induced acyclicity and uterine regression. On the other hand, regardless of photoperiod, animals with bilateral parasagittal knife cuts placed lateral to the PVN continued to exhibit regular 4-day estrous cycles and stimulated uteri. Thus, parasagittal cuts prevented the effects of short days on reproductive physiology. This finding suggests that the lateral efferent projections from the PVN represent an important component of the neural pathway mediating reproductive photoperiodism in female hamsters. PMID- 2519583 TI - Wrist activity monitoring in air crew members: a method for analyzing sleep quality following transmeridian and north-south flights. AB - Home base recordings of motor activity during bedtime, and of subjective sleep parameters, were obtained from air crew members before and after the following routes with multiple flight segments: (1) south-north (SN) across 1 time zone; (2) west-east (WE) across 17 time zones; (3) east-west (EW) across 7 time zones. For the EW route, recordings were also obtained during layover. Only after return from the EW route was bedtime motor activity (measured by a wrist-worn ambulatory monitor) enhanced, was the percentage of bedtime immobility periods reduced, and were frequency and duration of self-assessed waking after sleep onset increased. The subjects rated their sleep as less quiet and felt less rested than during baseline. The various parameters gradually reverted toward baseline during the first 4 days at home. Although sleep showed only minor impairments during the EW route, the subjective jet-lag score was high during layover and after return to home base. Ambulatory activity monitoring is a useful method for assessing sleep quality after long-haul flights. PMID- 2519584 TI - The mammalian circadian system: models and physiology. AB - Mammalian circadian rhythms have been studied in great detail using primarily two different methods. One method is usually referred to as the formal analysis of rhythms. Its goal is to describe the properties of both rhythms and their underlying mechanisms, and it aims at the development of adequate mathematical models of the circadian system. The other method is the physiological analysis of the mechanisms that generate and entrain rhythms. Its goal is the identification of the anatomical components of the circadian system and the elucidation at a cellular and molecular level of how these components work. This paper reviews how the formal analysis of circadian systems, primarily in rodents, set the agenda for physiological studies, and the degree to which this agenda has been fulfilled. It then discusses how physiological analyses of the system have helped to redefine issues such as the nature and identity of the pacemaker, the nature of the entrainment process, the roles of photic and nonphotic cues, and the role of feedback in the circadian system. The continued commerce between these two approaches has led to a sophisticated appreciation of the complexities and subtleties of circadian organization in mammals. The further integration of formal and physiological analyses remains a challenging goal for the future. PMID- 2519585 TI - Effects of stimulated physical activity on the circadian pacemaker of vertebrates. AB - A dogma in the field of circadian rhythms is that in order to keep accurate time, pacemakers that generate such rhythms must be relatively independent of changes in the external and internal environment. While it is true that the period of circadian oscillators is conserved within a narrow range, regardless of alterations in the external and internal environment, numerous perturbations have now been found that can change the period and/or induce a phase shift in circadian pacemakers. Many of these perturbations also alter the overall level of activity and/or metabolic state of the organism. In 1960, Aschoff suggested that alterations in the "level of excitement" may induce changes in circadian clocks. Although little attention has been given to this hypothesis over the past three decades, recent findings support its validity and open new avenues for studying the function and organization of circadian clock systems. PMID- 2519586 TI - Sleep initiation and initial sleep intensity: interactions of homeostatic and circadian mechanisms. AB - Sleep initiation and sleep intensity in humans show a dissimilar time course. The propensity of sleep initiation (PSI), as measured by the multiple sleep latency test, remains at a relatively constant level throughout the habitual period of waking or exhibits a midafternoon peak. When waking is extended into the sleep period, PSI rises rapidly within a few hours. In contrast, sleep intensity, as measured by electroencephalographic slow-wave activity during naps, shows a gradual increase during the period of habitual waking. In the two-process model of sleep regulation, it corresponds to the rising limb of the homeostatic Process S. We propose that PSI is determined by the difference between Process S and the threshold H defining sleep onset, which is modulated by the circadian process C. In contrast to a previous version of the model, the parameters of H (amplitude, phase, skewness) differ from those of threshold L, which defines sleep termination. The present model is able to simulate the time course of PSI under baseline conditions as well as following recovery sleep after extended sleep deprivation. The simulations suggest that during the regular period of waking, a circadian process counteracts the increasing sleep propensity induced by a homeostatic process. Data obtained in the rat indicate that during the circadian period of predominant waking, a circadian process prevents a major intrusion of sleep. PMID- 2519587 TI - Light effects on human circadian rhythms: a review of recent Andechs experiments. PMID- 2519588 TI - Different mechanisms of phase delays and phase advances of the circadian rhythm in rat pineal N-acetyltransferase activity. AB - The circadian rhythm in rat pineal N-acetyltransferase (NAT) activity, which drives the rhythm in melatonin production, is controlled by a pacemaker located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus of the hypothalamus. As the NAT rhythm has two well-defined phase markers--namely, the time of the evening activity rise and of the morning decline--it is suitable for studies of the entrainment of the pacemaker by environmental light. Phase delays of the NAT rhythm proceed more rapidly than phase advances. One day after a brief light pulse applied before midnight, or after a delay in evening lights-off, or a delay of a light-dark (LD) cycle, phase delays of the evening NAT rise result in almost corresponding delays of the morning NAT decline. Consequently, the NAT rhythm is phase-shifted, but its pattern does not change. One day after a brief light pulse applied past midnight, or after bringing forward morning lights-on, or after an advance of an LD cycle, the morning NAT decline is phase-advanced, but the evening rise is not phase-advanced at all or may even by phase-delayed. Consequently, the phase relationship between the evening NAT activity onset and the morning offset may be compressed considerably, and it may take several transient cycles before phase advances of the morning NAT decline are followed by corresponding advances of the evening NAT rise. Due to the phase-delaying effect of evening light on the NAT rise and to the phase-advancing effect of morning light on the NAT decline, the phase relationship between the NAT rise and the decline is compressed on long days and decompressed on short days. Different phase shifts of the evening NAT rise and of the morning decline, even in opposite directions, are consistent with the hypothesis of a complex, two-component (evening-morning, or E-M) pacemaker controlling the NAT rhythm. As the E-M phase relationship determines duration of the high night melatonin production, and the duration of the nocturnal melatonin pulse may convey information on daylength, the data are consistent with the internal coincidence model for photoperiodic time measurement. PMID- 2519589 TI - A circadian rhythm of population behavior in Gonyaulax polyedra. AB - Like other flagellates, Gonyaulax polyedra exhibits diurnal vertical migration and pattern formation. Shape and size of the aggregations depend on container type, light intensity, and cell density. In Petri dishes, cells form oval "swarms"; within these, cells move downward in the highly dense center and rise up at the periphery. We have investigated the daily rhythm of this swarming activity in Petri dishes illuminated from the side, using time-lapse video recordings. At night, a "lawn" of cells forms at the bottom of the dish toward the light source (independent of light intensity). Before dawn, cells rise toward the surface and aggregate in swarms. The daily vertical migration occurs independent of light direction and intensity. The diurnal swarms, however, form every day at the same location within the dish, at a distance from the light that depends on light intensity, indicating a self-selection of light intensity. In constant light and temperature and with negligible vertical nutrient differences, all aspects of the rhythm continue to oscillate for up to 3 weeks, when the rhythm of the population becomes desynchronized. Under cycles of bright white-dim red light (WR), cell entrain to WR 10:10 but free run in WR 8:8 and shorter cycles, showing relative coordination (von Holst, 1939) to the driving light cycle. They also entrain to the 24-hr multiple of WR 6:6. Under nonentrained conditions, swarming activity is still influenced by light changes, and in spite of the apparent free run, the phasing of the averaged activity varies systematically with different T-cycle frequencies. PMID- 2519590 TI - Latitudinal clines in the properties of a circadian pacemaker. AB - The circadian rhythm of eclosion activity and its pacemaker were analyzed in a series of latitudinal races of Drosophila auraria ranging from 34.2 degrees to 42.9 degrees N in Japan. The phase of the rhythm (psi EL) to the daily photoperiod (PP) changes as daylength is increased, and the slope of psi EL (PP) changes with latitude. Is is sufficiently greater in the north to cause a phase reversal of northern and southern races on long versus short photoperiods. This reversal is found in assays of the pacemaker's phase (psi PL) as well as that of the rhythm (psi EL). Assay of the pacemaker shows that its period (tau) is longer in northern than in southern races, and that the amplitude of its phase response curve (PRC) is lower in the north. The period of the rhythm in all latitudinal races is longer than 24 hr in short photoperiods (LD 1:23), but is probably less than 24 hr (as an aftereffect of photoperiod) in longer days such as LD 14:10. The observed north-south differences in the phase relation of both pacemaker and rhythm to the light cycle are explained by the latitudinal clines in pacemaker properties and a postulated aftereffect of photoperiod on tau. It is suggested that the latitudinal cline in PRC amplitude has functional significance in conserving the amplitude of the pacemaker's signal to the rest of the system it times. Computer simulation shows that without such a reduction in the perceived light intensity, pacemaker amplitude will be lowered by the increase in duration of the daily light at higher latitudes. PMID- 2519591 TI - Photoperiod as a modifying and limiting factor in the expression of avian circannual rhythms. AB - In three species of birds that migrate long distances, the annual rhythms of gonadal activity, molt, and migratory restlessness (Zugunruhe) persist for more than 1 year under certain constant conditions. The most important zeitgeber for these circannual rhythms is the annual cycle of photoperiod, which adjusts the overall period of circannual rhythms to exactly 1 year and also provides for the appropriate adjustment of seasonal activities to the temporal structure of the environment. This is illustrated by results on garden warblers (Sylvia borin) indicating that the longer photoperiods experienced by individuals wintering far south in the African wintering area phase-advance spring migration and the accompanying gonadal development, relative to those of individuals wintering further north. The rate of acceleration is, however, slow enough to prevent a reproductive cycle during the Southern Hemisphere summer. Hence, endogenous circannual components and zeitgeber stimuli constitute a functional entity that provides as a whole for adaptive temporal programming. This idea is further supported by findings in the pied flycatcher (Ficedula hypoleuca), in which a circannual rhythmicity persists only if photoperiod in winter is at least as short as that normally encountered by the species in its wintering grounds slightly north of the equator. In collared flycatchers (Ficedula albicollis), in contrast, rhythmicity continues under much longer photoperiods, consistent with the fact that the wintering area of this species extends to latitudes far south of the equator. It is proposed that the adaptive function of circannual rhythms can be properly understood only if their interactions with environmental factors, particularly those that play a role as zeitgebers, are analyzed in sufficient detail. The biological significance of circannual rhythms may be more apparent in the context of the environmental constraints limiting their expression than in the often rather restricted set of conditions sustaining spontaneous annual cyclicity. PMID- 2519592 TI - Photoperiod and thermoregulation in vertebrates: body temperature rhythms and thermogenic acclimation. AB - Evidence has recently begun to accumulate that photoperiodic responses of mammals and birds may affect the control of energy balance and thermoregulation. Exposure to short photoperiod can lower the set point for body temperature regulation in birds and mammals, as well as the voluntarily selected body temperature in ectothermic lizards. This decrease is accompanied by a reorganization of circadian or ultradian rhythms of body temperature, particularly an increase in periods spent at rest with minimum body temperatures. Short photoperiod is also used as an environmental cue for induction of seasonal torpor or facilitation of hibernation. During winter, cold tolerance of small mammals is improved by an increase of nonshivering thermogenesis in brown fat. Thermogenic capacity of brown fat (respiratory enzymes, mitochondria, uncoupling protein) is enhanced in response to short photoperiod. This response is mediated via an increase in the activity of sympathetic innervation in brown fat. Moreover, an exposure to short photoperiod prior to low temperatures may act in preparing brown fat for facilitated thermogenesis during acclimation to cold. This shows that photoperiodic control not only affects energy balance indirectly via the control of reproduction or body mass, but may directly interact with central control of thermoregulation and may influence the process of acclimatization. PMID- 2519593 TI - Intraspecific allometry of basal metabolic rate: relations with body size, temperature, composition, and circadian phase in the kestrel, Falco tinnunculus. AB - The relationship between body size and basal metabolic rate (BMR) in homeotherms has been treated in the literature primarily by comparison between species of mammals or birds. This paper focuses on the intraindividual changes in BMR when body mass (W) varies with different maintenance regimens. BMR varied in individual kestrels in proportion to W1.67, which is considerably steeper than the mass exponents for homomorphic change (0.667; Heusner, 1984) for interspecific comparison among all birds (0.677) or raptors (0.678), for interindividual comparison of kestrels on ad libitum maintenance regimens (0.786), and for mass proportionality (1.00). The circadian range of telemetered core temperature also varied more strongly with intraindividual than with interspecific (Aschoff, 1981a) variation in mass. This was due to reduced nocturnal core temperature at low-maintenance regimens, which was, however, insufficient to account for the excessive reduction in BMR. kidney lean mass at Carcass analysis of eight birds sacrificed revealed a disproportionate reduction in heart and kidney lean mass at low-maintenance regimens. We surmise that variation in BMR primarily reflects variation in these metabolically highly active tissues. This may account for positive correlations found between heart, kidney, and BMR residuals relative to interspecific allometric prediction, and between alpha and rho residuals, as expected on the basis of the constant excess of BMR during alpha above BMR during rho (Aschoff & Pohl, 1970a). PMID- 2519594 TI - Circadian components of semilunar and lunar timing mechanisms. AB - The timing of semilunar as well as lunar reproductive rhythms has been analyzed in different geographic populations of the intertidal chironomid Clunio. In stocks of three populations differing in period and phase relationship with the lunar month, these long-term rhythms were synchronized in the laboratory by using artificial moonlight cycles of 30 days in otherwise 24-hr light-dark (LD) cycles (0.4 lux during 4 successive nights every 30 days in LD 12:12). In LD cycles of various periods, a strong synchronization was only possible in LD 12:12 and LD 11:11, whereas in LD 10:10 and LD 15:15 the synchronization by the 30-"day" moonlight cycle was weak or even absent. The study demonstrates a limited range of circadian periods for entrainment of the long-term rhythms. It is concluded that an LD cycle with a period near 24 hr is an essential zeitgeber condition for semilunar and lunar timing in this marine insect. Further, it is suggested that the underlying physiological timing mechanism of Clunio consists of a circadian function for the perception of the monthly moonlight zeitgeber cycles that entrain the endogenous, temperature-compensated oscillator of the circasemilunar (or circalunar) period. The long-term oscillator triggers the metamorphosis of the insect, and thereby determines the time of its eclosion and reproduction on the shorelines, in correlation with days of spring tides recurring about every 14 15 days. PMID- 2519595 TI - The parallactic view, statistical testing, and circular reasoning. AB - A "parallactic view" (i.e., subjectivity in interpreting data) is an important and perhaps essential tool for formulating hypotheses, but it also represents a hazardous contaminant to be avoided in testing hypotheses. Computer simulations demonstrate that statistical testing of data that are contaminated by even a modest level of such parallax can be very misleading; probability levels are greatly distorted. An even more insidious influence of the parallactic view arises when the fundamental assumptions for a statistical test are not adequately respected. Single-cosinor analysis, which has been used to "demonstrate" circaseptan rhythms (tau = about 7 days), lends itself to such abuse: The statistical test of the zero-amplitude hypothesis assumes that if any serial correlation is present in the data, it is due to a sinusoidal oscillation with period that is known a priori. One cannot, therefore, legitimately use this method to demonstrate the existence of such a rhythm. PMID- 2519596 TI - The influence of time of day on the foraging behavior of the honeybee, Apis mellifera. AB - The honeybee time sense, or Zeitgedachtnis, is highly adaptive, allowing bees to synchronize their foraging behavior with the peak time of daily floral nectar rhythms. Each foraging group within the honeybee colony shows a high degree of fidelity to one species of flower. Across the day, the temporal accuracy of foraging visits to experimental feeding times varies considerably, being nearly exact for morning-trained foraging groups but becoming less so for foraging groups trained later in the day. The evidence gained in this study suggests that the diel change in accuracy exhibited by foraging groups, which persists after the removal of many potential environmental time cues, is an endogenously driven behavior pattern. Furthermore, it appears that individual bees are continuously and accurately aware of the time of day, but are programmed to forage with greater anticipation to late-day food sources. Therefore, two separate processes contributing to the honeybee time sense are implicated. The first varies with time of day and determines the amount of anticipatory activity directed toward the food source. The second process is invariant across the day and is involved with the individual forager's continuous, accurate awareness of time. PMID- 2519598 TI - Differential effects of photoperiodic history on the responses of gonadotrophins and prolactin to intermediate daylengths in the male Syrian hamster. AB - The effect of photoperiodic history on the neuroendocrine response to intermediate daylengths (11-13.5 hr of light) was investigated in the male Syrian hamster. The duration of the nocturnal peak of pineal melatonin content was inversely proportional to photoperiod and independent of photoperiodic history. Serum levels of prolactin were lower in animals exposed to shorter photoperiods. Photoperiodic history had little effect on the response of serum prolactin to intermediate daylengths. Serum luteinizing hormone (LH) concentrations were also lower in shorter photoperiods, but in addition were sensitive to the direction of photoperiodic change, so that a single photoperiod could be interpreted as either stimulatory or inhibitory to LH secretion. This effect of photoperiodic history was expressed at intermediate photoperiods with 12-13.5 hr of light. The sensitivity of serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels to photoperiodic history was masked by an early onset of photorefractoriness. Testicular size and serum testosterone levels revealed weaker effects of photoperiodic history; these were attributed to the dissociation between gonadotrophin and prolactin secretion induced by intermediate daylengths. The contrasting effects of photoperiodic history on the secretion of LH and prolactin may represent the expression of multiple photoperiodic time-measuring systems. PMID- 2519597 TI - Temperature dependence of phase response curves for drug-induced phase shifts. AB - The effectiveness of drugs active in phase-shifting the circadian rhythm of bioluminescent glow in the unicellular dinoflagellate Gonyaulax polyedra differs, depending upon the time of drug exposure (as pulses). For two drugs tested- cycloheximide and anisomycin, both inhibitors of cytosolic protein synthesis- this function, referred to as the drug phase response curve (dPRC), differs, depending upon the ambient temperature. Since dPRCs may differ at different drug concentrations, the effects observed may be attributable to differences in the effectiveness of or recovery from the drugs at different temperatures. PMID- 2519599 TI - Photoperiodic control of reproduction and molt in the kestrel, Falco tinnunculus. AB - An adaptive decline in average clutch size with progressive date of laying is characteristic of most bird species with a single clutch of variable size per year. The effect of photoperiod on timing of laying, clutch size, and subsequent molt was investigated in kestrel pairs breeding and raising their young in captivity. In natural daylight (nLD), clutch size, under ad libitum feeding, showed the same decline with date as in nature. Birds breeding later also started molt later and molted faster (more feathers simultaneously), so that all birds completed molt more or less at the same time. Constant long days (LD 17.5:6.5 and LD 13:11) from December 1 onward advanced both reproduction and molt. The LD 17.5:6.5 group developed the reproductive system faster, had a shorter courtship period, and laid eggs earlier than the LD 13:11 group. In both photoperiods there was a decrease in clutch size with progressive laying date, similar to that in nLD. Molt started in both groups at about the end of the laying period and slowed down in the longer photoperiod, especially in males. Plasma luteinizing hormone (LH) changes in the two photoperiods were different for males and females. Males showed the expected slower LH response in the shorter photoperiod, but the initial LH response by females was the same in both photoperiods. Data on LH, reproductive behavior, and body mass suggest that females have a wider annual reproductive window than males. Data on time of laying and number of eggs suggest that clutch size in the kestrel is determined by laying date itself, following an endogenous rhythm that is phase-locked to the reproductive cycle. PMID- 2519600 TI - Nonphotic enhancement of adjustment to new light-dark cycles: masking interpretation discounted. AB - The adjustment of hamsters to advanced light-dark (LD) cycles can be greatly accelerated by scheduling a single 3-hr bout of extra activity in a novel running wheel, starting about 7 hr before the time when the animals become active in the preceding LD cycle. The present experiments were designed to provide stronger evidence that this effect depends on a shift in the pacemaker rather than on masking. It was shown that when hamsters were put into continuous darkness (DD) 1 day after the exercise-accelerated phase shift, their free-running rhythms took off from a time nearer to the onset of darkness in the new LD cycle than in the preceding LD cycle. An incidental finding was that in DD the free-running period of the hamsters with the accelerated phase shifts was longer than that of the control animals. Further evidence that the 3-hr exercise pulse had produced a greater phase advance than that occurring in undisturbed control animals was obtained by giving a light pulse at the same clock time to all animals after they had been in DD for 8 days. The animals that had previously exercised for the additional 3-hr phase-advanced in response to the light pulse, while the undisturbed control animals phase-delayed. PMID- 2519601 TI - The stability of the circadian rhythm of green finches (Carduelis chloris) under the influence of a weak electrical field. AB - Free-running activity rhythms of nine green finches (Carduelis chloris) were studied under the influence of a 10-Hz square-wave electrical field. With a field strength of magnitude of E = 2.5 V/m in the empty cage, the population had a mean period of 23.64 +/- 0.77 hr. In the same experiment, but without the electrical field, the period was 23.66 +/- 0.80 hr. These results are in contradiction to Wever's description of a field-induced shortening of the period. A series of experiments with 10-Hz pulses of the same square-wave form, yet with various field strengths (8.7 and 65.2 V/m), also gave no effects. PMID- 2519602 TI - Circadian determinants of subjective alertness. AB - Four healthy male subjects each experienced a temporal isolation experiment lasting several months. During part of each experiment (2-5 weeks), the subject's entire imposed daily routine (including light-dark, rest-activity, and meal routines) was either stretched (two subjects: T = 25.8 hr, 26.0 hr) or reduced (two subjects: T = 22.8 hr, 23.1 hr) to beyond the range of entrainment of the endogenous circadian pacemaker (ECP), which then ran at a different period (tau). Subjective alertness was measured approximately three times per hour (during wakefulness), using a computerized visual analogue scale technique. Circadian rhythms in subjective alertness were then plotted both at tau, the period length of the ECP, and at T, the period length of the imposed sleep-wake cycle (SWC) and light-dark cycle. At tau, the alertness rhythm was closely in phase with the temperature rhythm. At T, the alertness rhythm showed an "inverted-U" function with a peak toward the middle of the subjective day, upon which was superimposed a "postlunch dip" for one subject. Thus, subjective alertness would appear to be under the control fo both ECP and SWC mechanisms, which combine to produce the composite time-of-day function normally observed in a diurnal setting. PMID- 2519603 TI - Circadian rhythm of photoaccumulation in Paramecium bursaria. AB - Populations of Paramecium bursaria cells display a circadian rhythm of photoaccumulation. Both Chlorella-containing cells and Chlorella-free cells exhibit this rhythm. Several other species of Paramecium do not express rhythmic photoaccumulation when tested under the same conditions. In P. bursaria, photoaccumulation rhythms persist in continuous conditions (constant temperature and either continuous light or continuous darkness). The period of this rhythm is "temperature-compensated," with a Q10 of 1.10-1.12. The rhythm can be reset by pulses of light or darkness in a phase-dependent manner. Therefore, an endogenous circadian oscillator controls photoaccumulation behavior in P. bursaria. PMID- 2519604 TI - Circadian phototransduction: phase resetting and frequency of the circadian clock of Gonyaulax cells in red light. AB - Constant red light (RR) influences the Gonyaulax clock in several ways: (1) Phase resetting by white or blue light pulses is stronger under background RR than in constant white light (WW); (2) frequency of the rhythm is less in RR than in WW; and (3) the amplitude of the spontaneous flashing rhythm is greater in RR than in WW. The phase response curve (PRC) to 4-hr white or blue light pulses is of high amplitude (Type 0) for cells in RR, but is of lower amplitude (Type 1) for cells in WW. In all cases, the PRC is highly asymmetrical: The magnitude of advance phase resetting is far higher than that of delay resetting. Consistent with this PRC, Gonyaulax cells in RR (free-running period greater than 24 hr) will entrain to T cycles of between 21 and 26.5 hr. The bioluminescence rhythms exhibit "masking" by blue light pulses while entrained to these T cycles. The fluence response of phase resetting to light-pulse intensity is not linear or logarithmic -rather, it is discontinuous. This feature is consistent with a limit cycle interpretation of Type 0 resetting of circadian clocks. Light pulses that cause large phase shifts also shorten the subsequent free-running period. The phase angle difference between the clock and the previous LD cycle is within 2 hr of the same phase between 16 degrees C and 25 degrees C, as determined from the light PRCs at various temperatures. Several drugs that inhibit mitochondria and/or electron transport will partially inhibit the phase shift by light. PMID- 2519605 TI - Effect of melatonin infusion duration and frequency on gonad, lipid, and body mass in pinealectomized male Siberian hamsters. AB - The goal of this study was to discriminate between two hypotheses regarding how the circadian rhythm of pineal melatonin (MEL) production transmits photoperiodic information: (1) A circadian rhythm of sensitivity to MEL regulates the hormone's effect; (2) the duration of the MEL signal, rather than its circadian timing, is the critical parameter of the MEL rhythm. The experiment examined the response of pinealectomized (PINX) male Siberian hamsters to 10-hr (short-day-type) versus 6 hr (long-day-type) duration MEL infusions (10 ng/infusion) in cycles with period lengths (T) of 18, 24, 36, and 48 hr. After cannula implantation, animals were moved from LD 16:8 to LD 10:14 (lights-on from 0500 to 1500 hr, EST), where the timed infusions began. Additional T 24 cycles included as controls employed 18-hr MEL, 18-hr saline (SAL), and 10-hr SAL infusions: Body weight and food intake were measured weekly. After 6 weeks, animals were killed; blood samples were taken for radioimmunoassay (RIA) of serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and prolactin (PRL); and terminal body, epididymal white adipose tissue (EPIWAT), and paired testis weights were recorded. Six-hour MEL infusions failed to induce short-day-type effects, regardless of the period (T) of the infusion cycle. In contrast, compared to SAL and 6-hr MEL infusions, 10-hr MEL resulted in decreases in body, EPIWAT, and testis weights in T 24, but not in T 36 or T 48. In T 18, testis, body, and EPIWAT mass were decreased, but not to the same extent as in T 24. Similarly, daily 18-hr MEL infusions (T24) were less effective as a short-day stimulus than were 10-hr MEL infusions. The effectiveness of 10-hr, but not 6-hr, MEL infusions in T 18 and T 24 is consistent with the duration hypothesis and argues against the circadian hypothesis. Neither hypothesis could have predicted that all infusion cycles of T greater than or equal to 36 hr, regardless of the infusion durations, would fail to elicit short-day-type responses. This outcome suggests a need for relatively frequent (T less than 36 hr) MEL stimulation in addition to the requirement for adequate duration of each MEL infusion. PMID- 2519607 TI - Forced dissociation of activity entrained to T cycles of food access in rats with suprachiasmatic lesions. AB - The ability of rats with suprachiasmatic lesions to entrain anticipatory wheel running to two food access times per day was investigated. In the presence of meal schedules with periods of 23.75 hr and 24 hr, two of seven rats entrained activity to both for many consecutive days, while other rats repeatedly shifted activity from one schedule to the other. A second group of rats was maintained on 25-hr and 26-hr meal schedules. One of nine rats showed prolonged entrainment to both schedules (i.e., forced dissociation). In the other rats, anticipatory activity (AA) waxed and waned repeatedly on each schedule. In both experiments, AA to the leading schedule increased when the interval between meals was about 5 hr or less, and AA to the trailing schedule diminished or ceased. Changes in AA were also common when the interval between meals was between 11 and 16 hr. The results are consistent with the hypothesis that entrainment of AA to periodic food access is mediated by at least two mutually coupled circadian pacemakers. Interactions between these putative pacemakers appear to be strongest when the pacemakers are nearly in phase or in antiphase. PMID- 2519606 TI - Entrainment of the melatonin rhythms in early postnatal lambs and their mothers. AB - Although the developing sheep can produce an appropriately timed melatonin rhythm as early as 1 week after birth, it is not known whether the lamb is able to adjust its melatonin rhythm to a change in daylength. The ability of the young lamb to entrain its pattern of melatonin secretion to a new photoperiod was determined in the present study. Eight female lambs and their mothers were raised in long days (LD 16:8) beginning 2 weeks postpartum. At 7 weeks of age, the time of lights-off was advanced 8 hr, the short-day photoperiod then being LD 8:16; the time of lights-on remained unchanged. Concentrations of melatonin were measured in blood samples collected hourly on days - 1, 0, 2, 4, 6, and 13 relative to the light change. On day 0, all mothers and daughters had advanced the onset of melatonin secretion by at least 1 hr, and by day 13, 12 of 16 had completely entrained to the new photoperiod. The rate of entrainment among individuals varied; the mean rate for lambs and mothers did not differ. This study provides evidence that the melatonin-rhythm-generating system matures shortly after birth. PMID- 2519608 TI - Diet-dependent switch from circadian to hourglass-like operation of an insect photoperiodic clock. AB - The results of resonance experiments gave evidence that circadian organization was involved in photoperiodic diapause induction of Pieris brassicae. However, giving the larvae an artificial diet instead of the host plant deeply altered the resonance effect and led to a response that could be accounted for by the operation of a noncircadian timer (hourglass). This important change, however, had no effect on the insect's ability to discriminate between short- and long-day 24-hr cycles. Thus, it is possible via the metabolism to switch the photoperiodic mechanism to a circadian or an hourglass-like mode of operation without impairing the photoperiodic time measurement. PMID- 2519609 TI - In pursuit of myosin function. PMID- 2519610 TI - GTP gamma S stimulation of endosome fusion suggests a role for a GTP-binding protein in the priming of vesicles before fusion. AB - Guanosine 5'-(3-O-thio)triphosphate (GTP gamma S), a non-hydrolyzable analogue of GTP, inhibits in vitro fusion among early endocytic vesicles in the presence of high concentrations of cytosol. In this report we show that fusion is remarkably stimulated by GTP gamma S under conditions where cytosolic components are the limiting factors for the process. The amount of cytosolic factors required for maximal fusion activity is several-fold decreased by the presence of GTP gamma S. Moreover, preincubation of vesicles in the presence of cytosol and GTP gamma S allows fusion to proceed even in the absence of cytosol. Our results indicate that a GTP-binding protein facilitates the binding of cytosolic factor(s) required for endosome fusion to the endosomal membrane and stabilizes a dilution resistant intermediate of the fusion process. PMID- 2519612 TI - 1-O-alkyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycerol: a platelet-activating factor metabolite with biological activity in vascular smooth muscle cells. AB - Platelet-activating factor (1-O-alkyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine; PAF) is a potent vasoactive ether lipid produced by activated blood cells and endothelial cells. Vascular smooth muscle cells partially convert exogenous PAF to 1-O-alkyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycerol (AAG), a biologically active diacylglycerol analogue. AAG is formed rapidly (less than 15 s) after exposure of the smooth muscle cells and does not appear to be a substrate for diacylglycerol kinase in these cells. Although most of the compound is metabolized to 1-O-alkyl-sn glycerol, a small quantity remains as AAG for greater than or equal to 6 h. AAG inhibits phorbol ester binding, and it is as effective an activator of protein kinase C as diolein in an in vitro assay. Furthermore, AAG and PAF produce the same pattern of effects on smooth muscle cell proliferation. These observations suggest that at least some of the actions of PAF in vascular smooth muscle may be mediated through the formation of AAG, a stable, bioactive metabolite that appears to function as a diacylglycerol analogue. PMID- 2519611 TI - Neuronal expression of a newly identified Drosophila melanogaster G protein alpha 0 subunit. AB - Guanine nucleotide-binding proteins (G proteins) mediate signals between activated cell-surface receptors and cellular effectors. A bovine G-protein alpha subunit cDNA has been used to isolate similar sequences from Drosophila genomic and cDNA libraries. One class, which we call DG alpha 0, hybridized to position 47A on the second chromosome of Drosophila. The nucleotide sequence of the protein coding region of one cDNA has been determined, revealing an alpha subunit that is 81% identical with rat alpha 0. The cDNA hybridizes strongly to a 3.8 kb mRNA and weakly with a 5.3 kb message. Antibodies raised against a trp-E-DG alpha 0 fusion protein recognized a 39,000 Da protein in Drosophila extracts. In situ hybridization to adult Drosophila sections combined with immunohistochemical studies revealed expression throughout the optic lobes and central brain and in the thoracic and abdominal ganglia. DG alpha 0 message and protein were also detected in the antennae, oocytes, and ovarian nurse cells. The neuronal expression of this gene is similar to mammalian alpha 0, which is most abundantly expressed in the brain. PMID- 2519613 TI - Regulation of HSP70 synthesis by messenger RNA degradation. AB - When Drosophila cells are heat shocked, hsp70 messenger RNA (mRNA) is stable and is translated at high efficiencies. During recovery from heat shock, hsp70 synthesis is repressed and its messenger RNA (mRNA) is degraded in a highly regulated fashion. Dramatic differences in the timing of repression and degradation are observed after heat treatments of different severities. The 3' untranslated region (UTR) of the hsp70 mRNA was sufficient to transfer this regulated degradation to heterologous mRNAs. Altering the translational efficiency of the message or changing its natural translation-termination site did not alter its pattern of regulation, although in some cases it changed the absolute rate of degradation. We have previously shown that hsp70 mRNA is very unstable when it is expressed at normal growth temperatures (from a metallothionein promoter). We report here that the 3' untranslated region of the hsp70 mRNA is responsible for this instability as well. We postulate that a mechanism for degrading hsp70 mRNA pre-exists in Drosophila cells, that it is inactivated by heat shock and that it is the reactivation of this mechanism that is responsible for hsp70 repression during recovery. This degradation system may be the same as that used by other unstable mRNAs. PMID- 2519614 TI - Nuclear proteins TREF1 and TREF2 bind to the transcriptional control element of the transferrin receptor gene and appear to be associated as a heterodimer. AB - Two novel proteins that bind specifically to the transferrin receptor (TR) promoter, have been isolated from HeLa cell nuclear extract using a combination of ion exchange and oligonucleotide-affinity chromatography. TREF1 and TREF2, which have apparent molecular weights of 82 and 62 kDa, respectively, appear to be associated as a heterocomplex (TREF), and both proteins are able to contact target DNA directly. TREF interacts specifically with a region of the TR promoter which contains the TR transcriptional control element. This region is similar in sequence to the cAMP-responsive and phorbol ester-responsive elements found in several viral and cellular genes. Binding of TREF to the TR promoter results in modification of DNA topology over multiple helical turns, including a sequence revealed by a helical periodicity map as having an unusual structure. PMID- 2519616 TI - Transmembrane control of cadherin-mediated cell adhesion: a 94 kDa protein functionally associated with a specific region of the cytoplasmic domain of E cadherin. AB - Cadherins are a family of transmembrane glycoproteins which play a key role in Ca(2+)-dependent cell-cell adhesion. Cytoplasmic domains of these molecules are anchored to the cell cytoskeleton and are required for cadherin function. To elucidate how the function of cadherins is controlled through their cytoplasmic domains, we deleted five different regions in the cytoplasmic domain of E cadherin. After transfecting L cells with cDNA encoding the mutant polypeptides, we assayed aggregating activity of these transfectants; all these mutant proteins were shown to have an extracellular domain with normal Ca(2+)-sensitivity and molecular weight. Two mutant polypeptides with deletions in the carboxy half of the cytoplasmic domain, however, did not promote cell-cell adhesion and had also lost the ability to bind to the cytoskeleton, whereas the mutant molecules with deletions of other regions retained the ability to promote cell adhesion and to anchor to the cytoskeleton. Thus, the cytoplasmic domain contains a subdomain which was involved in the cell adhesion and cytoskeleton-binding functions. When E-cadherin in F9 cells or in L cells transfected with wild-type or functional mutant cadherin polypeptides was solubilized with nonionic detergents and immunoprecipitated, two additional 94 and 102 kDa components were coprecipitated. The 94 kDa component, however, was not detected in the immunoprecipitates from cells expressing the mutant cadherins which had lost the adhesive function. These results suggest that the interaction of the carboxy half of the cytoplasmic domain with the 94 kDa component regulates the cell binding function of the extracellular domain of E-cadherin. PMID- 2519615 TI - B lymphocytes express and lose syndecan at specific stages of differentiation. AB - Lymphopoietic cells require interactions with bone marrow stroma for normal maturation and show changes in adhesion to matrix during their differentiation. Syndecan, a heparan sulfate-rich integral membrane proteoglycan, functions as a matrix receptor by binding cells to interstitial collagens, fibronectin, and thrombospondin. Therefore, we asked whether syndecan was present on the surface of lymphopoietic cells. In bone marrow, we find syndecan only on precursor B cells. Expression changes with pre-B cell maturation in the marrow and with B lymphocyte differentiation to plasma cells in interstitial matrices. Syndecan on B cell precursors is more heterogeneous and slightly larger than on plasma cells. Syndecan 1) is lost immediately before maturation and release of B lymphocytes into the circulation, 2) is absent on circulating and peripheral B lymphocytes, and 3) is reexpressed upon their differentiation into immobilized plasma cells. Thus, syndecan is expressed only when and where B lymphocytes associate with extracellular matrix. These results indicate that B cells differentiating in vivo alter their matrix receptor expression and suggest a role for syndecan in B cell stage-specific adhesion. PMID- 2519617 TI - A novel regulatory mechanism for whey acidic protein gene expression. AB - When primary mouse mammary epithelial cells (PMME) are cultured on a basement membrane type matrix, they undergo extensive morphogenesis leading to the formation of 3-dimensional alveoli-like spherical structures surrounding a closed lumen. We show for the first time that cells cultured on basement membrane-type matrix express high levels of whey acidic protein (WAP) mRNA and secrete the protein into the lumen. The expression of WAP appears to be dependent upon the formation of the alveoli-like spheres: prevention of sphere formation by fixation or drying of the matrix abolishes the expression of WAP. Co-culturing PMME on native and fixed basement membrane matrix indicates that the suppression of WAP expression is dominant, thereby revealing the existence of a diffusible inhibitor(s). The inhibitory activity is present in the conditioned medium of PMME cultured on plastic surface and floating collagen gels, substrata that do not form alveoli and do not allow WAP expression. These findings are consistent with the model that the synthesis, or the action, of the WAP inhibitory factor is regulated by the tissue-like multicellular organization of mammary cells. When PMME do not have correct 3-dimensional structures, one (or more) inhibitor is secreted into the medium which suppresses WAP expression by an autocrine or paracrine mechanism. Nuclear run-on experiments suggest that the suppression of WAP expression is posttranscriptional. These results have obvious bearings on the understanding of the mechanisms by which cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix interaction regulate tissue specific gene expressions. PMID- 2519619 TI - Stable, resealable pores formed in sea urchin eggs by electric discharge (electroporation) permit substrate loading for assay of enzymes in vivo. AB - We describe a simple electroporation procedure for loading suspensions of unfertilized sea urchin eggs with impermeant small molecules under conditions that allow close to 90% successful fertilization and development. Poration is carried out in a low-Ca2+ medium that mimicks the intracellular milieu. The induced pores remain open for several minutes in this medium, allowing loading of the cells; resealing is achieved by adding back millimolar calcium ions to the medium. While the pores are open, an influx of exogenous molecules and efflux of endogenous metabolites takes place, and the eggs can lose up to 40% of their ATP content and still survive. Introduced metabolites are utilized by the cells, e.g., introduced 3H-thymidine is incorporated into DNA. This procedure will be useful for loading impermeant substrates into eggs, permitting in vivo assessment of metabolism, and also for introducing other interesting impermeant molecules, such as inhibitors, fluorescent indicators, etc. Though the details may differ, the principle of electroporation in an intracellular-like medium may prove to be useful for loading other cell types with minimal loss of viability. PMID- 2519618 TI - Multiple actin-based motor genes in Dictyostelium. AB - Dictyostelium cells, devoid of conventional myosin, display a variety of motile activities, consistent with the presence of other molecular motors. The Dictyostelium genome was probed at low stringency with a gene fragment containing the conserved conventional myosin head domain sequences to identify other actin based motors that may play a role in the observed motility of these mutant cells. One gene (abmA) has been characterized and encodes a polypeptide of approximately 135 kDa with a head region homologous to other myosin head sequences and a tail region that is not predicted to form either an alpha-helical structure of coiled coil interactions. Comparisons of the amino acid sequences of the tail regions of abmA, Dictyostelium myosin I, and Acanthamoeba myosins IB and IL reveal an area of sequence similarity in the amino terminal half of the tail that may be a membrane-binding domain. The abmA gene, however, does not contain an unusual Gly, Pro, Ala stretch typical of many of the previously described myosin Is. Two additional genes (abmB and abmC) were identified using this approach and also found to contain sequences that encode proteins with typical conserved myosin head sequences. The abm genes may be part of a large family of actin-based motors that play various roles in diverse aspects of cellular motility. PMID- 2519620 TI - Single-cell analysis of the mitogen-induced calcium responses of normal and protein kinase C-depleted Swiss 3T3 cells. AB - Single-cell fluorescence image analysis has been used to characterize the mitogen induced increases in intracellular free [Ca2+] ([Ca2+]i) in control and protein kinase C-depleted Swiss 3T3 cells. More than 80% of the control cells exhibited fast, transient responses to bombesin, vasopressin, or prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha). In contrast, the [Ca2+]i responses induced by platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) were markedly more heterogeneous, slower, and often biphasic, with fewer cells (60-70%) responding. The peak [Ca2+]i values obtained in response to each mitogen showed substantial variation between cells. Brief pretreatment of the cells with 12-O-tetradecanoyl phorbol 13-acetate (TPA) reduced the [Ca2+]i responses to bombesin, but did not affect the responses to PDGF. Long-term pretreatment of the cells with TPA to down-modulate protein kinase C resulted in substantially prolonged [Ca2+]i responses to bombesin, vasopressin, and PGF2 alpha, but had no such effect on the responses to PDGF. We conclude that differences between the [Ca2+]i responses to bombesin and PDGF, previously reported using cell populations, reflect differences occurring in individual cells, and that the [Ca2+]i responses to bombesin, vasopressin, and PGF2 alpha (but not PDGF) are subject to feedback inhibition via protein kinase C. PMID- 2519621 TI - Retinoic acid induces transforming growth factor-beta 2 in cultured keratinocytes and mouse epidermis. AB - We have studied the functional interaction between retinoic acid and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta), using the mouse epidermis as a model system. Treatment with retinoic acid increases expression of TGF-beta 2 in cultured keratinocytes in vitro, as well as in the epidermis in vivo. This TGF-beta 2 is secreted in a biologically active form that can bind to surface receptors, in contrast to most other conditions in which TGF-beta is secreted in a latent form. Specific antibodies to TGF-beta 2 partially reverse the ability of retinoic acid to inhibit DNA synthesis in cultured keratinocytes. The regulation of TGF-beta 2 expression by retinoic acid may have important physiological and pharmacological roles in the maintenance of epidermal homeostasis. PMID- 2519623 TI - Quantitative estimation of cellular infiltration of the small intestinal mucosa in children with cow's milk and gluten intolerance. AB - Quantitative estimation of the infiltration by intraepithelial lymphocytes and eosinophils of the mucosa was carried out in 21 children with cow's milk and 35 children with gluten intolerance. Before dietary treatment, a statistically significant increase in the infiltration by LIE in children with milk intolerance to the mean value of 34.1 cells and in children with gluten intolerance to 39.0 cells was found, what statistically significantly differed from the mean value of LIE for the control group (19.0 cells/100 epithelial cells). The eosinophilic infiltration in this phase of the disease was noted in 38% of children with cow's milk intolerance (16.9 cells/mm2) and in 27% of children with gluten intolerance (28.6 cells/mm2). After 8-24 months of elimination diets--a decrease in the mean value of the LIE infiltration in the mucosa was revealed in both treated groups. PMID- 2519622 TI - Mitogen-induced oscillations of cytosolic Ca2+ and transmembrane Ca2+ current in human leukemic T cells. AB - A rapid rise in the level of cytosolic free calcium ([Ca2+]i) is believed to be one of several early triggering signals in the activation of T lymphocytes by antigen. Although Ca2+ release from intracellular stores and its contribution to Ca2+ signaling in many cell types is well documented, relatively little is known regarding the role and mechanism of Ca2+ entry across the plasma membrane. We have investigated mitogen-triggered Ca2+ signaling in individual cells of the human T-leukemia-derived line, Jurkat, using fura-2 imaging and patch-clamp recording techniques. Phytohemagglutinin (PHA), a mitogenic lectin, induces repetitive [Ca2+]i oscillations in these cells peaking at micromolar levels with a period of 90-120 s. The oscillations depend critically upon Ca2+ influx across the plasma membrane, as they are rapidly terminated by removal of extracellular Ca2+, addition of Ca(2+)-channel blockers such as Ni2+ or Cd2+, or membrane depolarization. Whole-cell and perforated-patch recording methods were combined with fura-2 measurements to identify the mitogen-activated Ca2+ conductance involved in this response. A small, highly selective Ca2+ conductance becomes activated spontaneously in whole-cell recordings and in response to PHA in perforated-patch experiments. This conductance has properties consistent with a role in T-cell activation, including activation by PHA, lack of voltage-dependent gating, inhibition by Ni2+ or Cd2+, and regulation by intracellular Ca2+. Moreover, a tight temporal correlation between oscillations of Ca2+ conductance and [Ca2+]i suggests a role for the membrane Ca2+ conductance in generating [Ca2+]i oscillations in activated T cells. PMID- 2519625 TI - Dose delivered by secondary electrons radiated by metallic objects implanted in human tissue during radiation therapy using high energy photons. AB - This abstract summarizes the results of a research project undertaken during 1983 to 1985 to evaluate the dose to the surrounding tissue contributed by secondary electrons originating from metallic surgical sutures and total hip prosthesis implanted in human tissue, upon interaction with high energy photons during radiation therapy. To date, no such work, has been undertaken on metallic prostheses or sutures but the effect of breast prosthesis made of silicone gel, during radiation therapy with high energy photons and electrons has been reported in two research papers. In this investigation, film and TLD methods of dosimetry are used to evaluate the dose due to these secondary electrons in a polystyrene phantom. Two types of films are used: they are Dupont 7L and Dupont 6 PLUS. Calibrated beams of X-ray photons of 4 MeV and electrons of 8.6 MeV energy are used as the sources of X-ray photons and electrons. The difference in optical density with film and the difference in response in the case of TLDs with and without the metallic objects is a measure of the dose contributes by the secondary electrons. This dose is taken off from the corresponding calibration curves for film and TLDs and this dose varies from 2.5% to 6.72% to soft tissue and the dose to bone varies from 4% to 12% approximately. In certain clinical situations, this amount of dose could be quite significant. Knowing such contribution, a more effective course of radiation therapy can be planned. PMID- 2519624 TI - Polydispersity of glycosaminoglycan components in human palatal tonsils. AB - The aim of this study was to characterize glycosaminoglycan components in human palatal tonsils and to determine whether the proportions of individual glycosaminoglycans change with bacterial infection of the palatal tonsils and after recovery. The changes in glycosaminoglycans' content in the course of tonsillitis were mainly related to heparin and chondroitin-4-sulphate (increase) and hyaluronic acid (decrease). After recovery the polydispersity of glycosaminoglycans was found to be comparable to that in normal palatal tonsils. PMID- 2519626 TI - Do active substances of thymus influence the processes of aging? VIII. Cerebral superoxide dismutase activity and malonyl dialdehyde concentration in aging mice treated with embryonal and early fetal thymic calf extracts (ETCE) and mature calf thymic extracts (thymex L and TFX). AB - Cerebral superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and malonyl dialdehyde (MDA) concentration were determined in 450 day female BNe strain mice. These animals were previously treated with 45 injections of: 1. embryonal and early fetal thymic calf extracts (ETCE) in single doses of 1.0 mg (group E) and 7.5 mg (group EE) protein per mouse; 2. Thymex L in the same doses (groups T and TT, respectively); 3. TFX in a single dose on 1.0 mg protein per animal. All applied thymic extracts, independently of the kind and dose, caused a fall in brain SOD activity. A statistically significant decrease in MDA concentration was found in the brains of E group mice. A clinical implication of the results has been suggested. PMID- 2519627 TI - Application of the Fourier analysis of shape in biomedical investigations. PMID- 2519628 TI - Complex parametric evaluation of the cerebrospinal pressure-volume processes in neurosurgical patients. PMID- 2519629 TI - Estimation of the size of myocardial infarct and its clinical application. AB - CK-MB activity was estimated in 16 patients and infarct size was calculated on that basis using our own computer programme. The infarct size was confronted with ejection fraction calculated in haemodynamic studies (p = 0.01). In the next step the ejection fraction was determined basing exclusively on changes of CK-MB activity. Significant changes between the value of fractions defined in these ways appear in the case when myocardial necrosis simultaneously involves the right ventricle. PMID- 2519631 TI - Comparative study of the biological characteristics of mucoid and non-mucoid Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains isolated from chronic respiratory infections. AB - Morphological, culture and enzymatic characteristics, as well as virulence, susceptibility to antimicrobial agents and epidemiological markers, were studied for 100 mucoid and 100 non-mucoid Ps. aeruginosa strains isolated from chronic respiratory infections. For 10 mucoid and 10 non-mucoid strains was performed the active protection test in mice, both with inactivated germs (10(9) germs), and LPS extracted by Westphal method. It was ascertained that mucoid Ps. aeruginosa strains differ from non-mucoid strains by the slow growth on culture media, more reduced proteolytic activity (81% as compared to 99%), slow oxidation of carbohydrates (5-7 days), reduced virulence in mice (8%) or avirulence (92%), higher sensitivity to some antibiotics (amikacin, dibekacin, ticarcillin, tetracycline, cefotaxime, ceftriaxone), lysoresistance (74%) and polyagglutinability (67%). The mucoid strains ensure a reduced active protection in mice, 70% of strains did not protect the mice against the infection with virulent homologous strains, while the non-mucoid strains ensured 80%-100% protection. PMID- 2519630 TI - Kinetics of destruction and regeneration of the haemopoietic system after administration of busulphan and cyclophosphamide followed by bone marrow transplantation. Peripheral blood parameters. AB - The kinetics of restoration of haemopoiesis was studied in 10 patients prepared for allogenic bone marrow transplantation with busulphan combined with cyclophosphamide. The morphology of peripheral blood after administration of these drugs and transplantation of allogenic bone marrow was similar to that reported elsewhere after irradiation, cyclophosphamide administration and bone marrow transplantation, the cell counts falling almost to zero within several days after the end of the pharmacological preparation, and later rising to normal values within the period from several weeks to several months after transplantation. PMID- 2519632 TI - Epidemiology of sexually transmitted Chlamydia trachomatis infections in male patients. AB - 868 male urethritis patients were studied for the presence of chlamydiae in the 1981-1986 period. 36% of NGU, 31.3% of gonococcal urethritis and 58.8% of PGU urethritis patients presented C. trachomatis infections as detected by cell culture inoculation. Chlamydial infection was recorded more often in the 21-30 years age group (30.8%), in unmarried patients (70.6%), as well as in people with low educational degree (46.6% of cases), 42.3% of the C. trachomatis cases were already confronted with one or more urethritis episodes. 24.7% of patients have been subjected to a previous antichlamydial treatment. PMID- 2519633 TI - Isolation of anti-carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), specific immunoglobulins and their use in immunocytochemical and enzyme-immunoassays (ELISA). AB - Anti-carcinoembryonic (CEA) polyclonal antibodies in sheep and rabbits were raised using purified CEA from acid extracts of human colon adenocarcinoma. CEA was purified by gel filtration on Sepharose 4B CL and chromatography on DEAE Sephadex A50. The antiserum was adsorbed with human serum and perchloric acid extract from normal colon. Anti-CEA IgG was purified from monospecific antiserum by ion-exchange chromatography and its specificity was tested on cryostat sections from colon adenocarcinoma by the indirect immunoperoxidase technique. The specific reaction was compared with that obtained by using a similar technique and two CEA specific monoclonal antibodies. An anti-CEA IgG peroxidase conjugate was obtained allowing to establish a "sandwich" ELISA-CEA system with two antibodies. CEA determinations were made in a group of 15 normal controls (mean value 4.8 +/- 0.4 ng/ml) and in 30 colorectal tumor patients (mean value 26.6 +/- 2.15 ng/ml). The anti-CEA antibodies are proven useful in immunocytochemical and ELISA techniques and may be further used in radioimaging of tumors. PMID- 2519634 TI - Investigations on the efficacy of monovalent Pseudomonas aeruginosa vaccine for oral administration in Pseudomonas aeruginosa experimental infection. AB - Therapeutic efficacy of Pseudomonas aeruginosa vaccine for oral use (10(10) killed germs/ml), prepared from strain 4922, belonging to serotype XV, by Meitert Meitert scheme, on 4 experimental models in mice (pneumonia, infected burn, septicaemia and urinary tract infection) was studied in comparison with monovalent Ps. aeruginosa vaccine serotype XV (10(9) killed germs/ml) for subcutaneous use and also with associated administration of the two vaccine variants. Mice immunization by using vaccine for oral use was performed by 0.5 ml vaccine per day, for 10 days and vaccine for subcutaneous use was administrated in a volume of 0.5 ml x 2, at 3 days interval. Mice immunization by using the two vaccine types, in association was concomitantly performed and in the same quantity as for separate immunization. In experimental pneumonia, Ps. aeruginosa vaccine for oral use protected mice in 35% of cases, those with infected burns were protected in 33.3% of cases, those with septicemia--in 96.6% of cases and those with urinary tract infection in 50% of cases. As compared to Ps. aeruginosa vaccine for subcutaneous use, the results obtained by vaccine for oral use are less favourable but associated administration of both vaccine variants led to superior results. Thus, in experimental pneumonia, it was obtained a surviving rate of 65% for animals immunized with both vaccine types, in comparison with 50% for animals immunized with vaccine for subcutaneous use only, and in Ps. aeruginosa infected burn, it was obtained a recovering rate of 79.1% for the animals immunized by using both vaccines, in comparison with 70.8% surviving for animals immunized with vaccine for subcutaneous use. In experimental septicaemia and urinary tract infection, combined use of both vaccine variants determined animals surviving and recovering in percents similar to those obtained by separate administration of vaccine for subcutaneous use (in septicemia--100% protection; in urinary tract infection--75% protection). PMID- 2519635 TI - Evaluation of the anti-rubella immunity levels on a lot of 5,000 sera from women at procreative age, tested by HAI, in Romania. AB - From the study performed on a lot of 5030 sera, prelevated from women between 15 40 years old, tested by hemagglutination inhibition reaction (HAI), divided in 5 age groups of 5 years each, resulted that the percentage of women that can be considered immunologically protected against rubella (with HAI antibody titers greater than or equal to 1/20) varied between 79.5% (15-20 years of age group), and 75.3% (31-35 years of age group). The average percentage for the total lot was 76.7. The geometrical means (MGx/divided by SG) of the individual HAI titers ranged between extreme values of 54.2 (x/divided by 4.1) for the Group I, and 40.7 (x/divided by 3.8) for the Group IV, presenting the value of 44.4 (x/divided by 3.9) for the total lot. The covering coefficients of the protection limit, estimated at the level of geometrical means of antibody titers, ranged between 2.7 and 2.0, according to the age group, while the estimations made at the levels of the limits of the statistical range of one geometric standard deviation (MG x/divided by SG), presented values comprised between 11-8 and 0.7-0.5, respectively. On the basis of some theoretical mathematical models proposed in the literature (and using data resulted from the study performed), an attempt was made to approximate the rate of fetal exposure as well as the presumptive risk of congenital rubella syndrome (to 0/0000 live-born). PMID- 2519636 TI - Comparative study of the immunogenicity of aqueous versus aluminium phosphate adsorbed split influenza vaccine C.I. AB - The antibody responses induced by the split influenza vaccine adsorbed on aluminium phosphate and the corresponding, nonadsorbed vaccine, both prepared in the Cantacuzino Institute, were studied in subjects belonging to three different age groups: 3-6, 10-15 and over 60 years of age, respectively. In all age groups the immunogenicity of the two vaccine preparations was similar, being uninfluenced by the level of preexisting antibodies. The immunogenicity of both vaccines was similar even in children considered to be non-primed. There were no differences in the persistence and specificity of antibodies induced by the two vaccines. No significant enhancement of the immunogenicity by aluminium phosphate was observed. PMID- 2519638 TI - Extreme self-injury attributed to frontal lobe seizures. AB - Extreme self-injury (e.g., head-banging, skin-gouging, and self-biting) among mentally retarded people has typically been very difficult to reduce or eliminate. Clinicians design behavior programs to reduce these behaviors based on various theories that presume this is volitional behavior. In this study specific limb and eye movements plus other ictal phenomena were catalogued from the neurologic literature on frontal lobe seizures. Ten patients were described who presented the clinical picture of frontal lobe seizures. Extreme self-injury in some brain-damaged persons was therefore regarded as involuntary, and need for recognition of this behavior as frontal lobe dysfunction, not a "behavior problem" under voluntary control, was noted. PMID- 2519637 TI - Experimental studies on the persistence in distilled water of certain conditional pathogenic fungi. AB - The authors followed up the behaviour in distilled water of 8 fungus strains belonging to four species (Candida albicans, C. krusei, Geotrichum candidum and Rhodotorula) kept at various temperatures (i.e. +4 degrees, +18 degrees and 25 degrees C). The average and the maximum survival periods were found to be as follows: C. albicans--476/1138 days, C. krusei--411/1138 days, G. candidum- 127/219 days, and R. rubra--139/226 days. All strains revealed periodically multiplication bursts of variable intensity depending on the kind of species and the temperature at which the cultures were maintained. These findings plead for the existence of cryptic periods of growth in fungi, too. Although, during the experiments, the variants occurred as concerns the morphological and cultural characteristics, sugar fermentation, sugar and nitrate assimilation, germ tube formation did not undergo any modifications. The pathogenic characteristics of C. albicans strains for rabbit were retained even after 1096 days maintenance in distilled water at 18 degrees C. PMID- 2519639 TI - Yellow oleander (cerbera thevetia) poisoning with jaundice and renal failure. AB - Jaundice and renal failure in yellow oleander poisoning have not been reported previously. Similarly no post-mortem report has shown renal tabular necrosis and glomerular pathology, liver and brain changes in this poisoning. Four cases of yellow oleander poisoning with jaundice and renal failure and the postmortem findings in another three cases are reported. PMID- 2519641 TI - Genetic transformation of the mosquito Aedes aegypti by micro-injection of DNA. AB - We report the successful introduction of heterologous DNA sequences into embryos of the mosquito Aedes aegypti (L.) by microinjection. The injected DNA carried P transposable element sequences, derived from and known to facilitate transformation in Drosophila melanogaster. Two plasmids, one of which carried a dominant selectable marker, were introduced into the posterior of embryos prior to pole cell formation and subsequently taken up into the germ line of transformed individuals. Stable transfer of the selectable marker (G418 resistance) was demonstrated over two generations. The precise nature of these putative P mediated integration events is currently being investigated. However, the results presented here establish the technique of DNA transformation for the genetic manipulation of Aedes aegypti. PMID- 2519640 TI - Is renal biopsy necessary in the management of the nephrotic syndrome? AB - To assess the relative risk of treating all patients with the nephrotic syndrome with prednisolone as against making a complete diagnosis by all necessary means including renal biopsy, a retrospective study of patients with nephrotic syndrome was undertaken. It was shown that the risk of indiscriminate steroid therapy was more than 12 times greater than that of selective biopsy. It is recommended that the diagnosis of the cause of the nephrotic syndrome must always be established before embarking on therapy. PMID- 2519642 TI - Seasonal patterns of rodents, fleas and plague status in the Western Usambara Mountains, Tanzania. AB - Field and commensal rodents were live-trapped at three villages in an active focus of plague (Yersinia pseudotuberculosis pestis) in Lushoto District, Western Usambara Mountains, Tanga Region, Tanzania, from December 1983 to November 1984. Their flea ectoparasites were collected, identified and counted. The rodent carcasses were serologically examined for specific plague antibodies and antigens, and bacteriologically examined for bipolar staining bacilli. A total of 1758 traps were set during the 12-month period and 924 animals were caught. From these, 1037 fleas were collected. Rattus rattus (L.), Praomys natalensis (Smith) and Lophuromys flavopunctatus Thomas comprised the largest proportions of the rodent population, while Dinopsyllus lypusus Jordan & Rothschild, Ctenophthalmus calceatus Waterston and Xenopsylla brasiliensis (Baker) were the dominant flea species. Rodents were most abundantly trapped during December and January. Flea indices were highest from December to May. Human plague was most active from November to March. Rodents contained plague antibodies every month except May and July, with a peak in September. Plague antigens and bipolar bacilli were detected in rodent organs during January-April. From the product of abundance and infection rate, the most prevalent rodent hosts of plague appeared to be R. rattus, Otomys angoniensis Wroughton, P. natalensis and Pelomys fallax (Peters). Continuous integrated control of rodents and fleas was recommended, reinforced by quarantine and maintenance of a surveillance service for clinical detection, diagnosis and treatment of patients in the plague endemic area. PMID- 2519643 TI - Ctenophthalmus harputus, a new Spalax flea from Turkey. AB - Ctenophthalmus harputus sp. n. is described from the mole rat Spalax ehrenbergi Nehring collected near Elazig city in eastern Turkey. This new flea species is classified in the Ctenophthalmus (Palaeoctenophthalmus) fissurus Wagner group. A key is given to the six species of Spalax fleas (Siphonaptera: Hystrichopsyllidae, Ctenophthalmus spp.) recorded from Turkey. PMID- 2519644 TI - Response of insecticide-resistant and susceptible houseflies (Musca domestica) to a commercial granular bait formulation containing methomyl. AB - Female houseflies (Musca domestica L.) from a susceptible and a multi-insecticide resistant strain were used to evaluate the relative toxicity of an insecticide bait formulation of the carbamate insecticide methomyl. Individual flies were allowed to feed on bait granules for an unrestricted period or for 5 s. Resistant flies took longer than susceptible flies to initiate a feeding response. When allowed to feed continuously, those from the resistant strain spent longer feeding than susceptible ones. The time taken to knock-down (KD), including feeding times, was significantly greater for resistant than susceptible flies (P less than 0.001), but once the proboscis was withdrawn from the granule there was no difference in KD times between the strains. All flies from both strains were knocked down, and only a very small number of resistant and susceptible flies recovered. The toxic effects of methomyl on flies which were restricted to a 5 s feed ranged from no observed effect to KD in less than 1 min. After feeding for 5 s, 81% of resistant and 98% of susceptible flies developed signs of methomyl poisoning. More resistant than susceptible flies recovered from KD, giving final mortalities of 46% and 88% respectively. With both feeding regimes, some flies of both strains which had apparently recovered from KD had lost their ability to fly. Observations have also shown that 8% of resistant flies may have been repelled by methomyl granules. The implication of these results on the survival of M. domestica in intensive animal units following exposure to methomyl bait is also discussed. PMID- 2519645 TI - Expression of acquired immunity to immature stages of the tick Rhipicephalus evertsi evertsi by rabbits and guinea-pigs. AB - Acquired immunity in guinea-pigs and rabbits to immature stages of the two-host tick Rhipicephalus evertsi evertsi Neumann was demonstrated. Repeated infestations of both hosts with larvae resulted in a significant reduction in the weight of later engorged nymphs. A sharp decline in the numbers of nymphs which successfully fed on both hosts was also observed. This study provides evidence for a gradual decrease in the mean weight of engorged nymphs towards the end of the detachment period suggesting that, in two-host ticks, the onset of nymphal feeding acts as an immune booster in a host already primed by the larval feed and that this results in a reduced feeding performance. PMID- 2519646 TI - Selection of Anopheles stephensi for refractoriness and susceptibility to Plasmodium falciparum. AB - Variation in susceptibility of the vector Anopheles stephensi Liston to the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum (Welch) was demonstrated using twelve strains of mosquitoes and one strain of parasites cultured in vitro. The Beech strain of An. stephensi exhibited greatest natural refractoriness, but with high intrapopulation variability. By selection for the required characteristic, two refractory lines of the Punjab strain and one highly susceptible line of the Sind strain were obtained. The median number of oocysts in the two refractory lines was less than 4% of that in the unselected line, whilst the highly susceptible line yielded about twice as many oocysts as the unselected line. Selection progressed more by keeping the descendants of individual females separate and selecting between them (individual selection) rather than pooling the progeny of all selected mosquitoes (mass selection). Using the former procedure many lines were lost due to inbreeding depression, but the outcome was more successful. PMID- 2519647 TI - The effects of allatectomy and juvenile hormone replacement on the development of host-seeking behaviour and lactic acid receptor sensitivity in the mosquito Aedes aegypti. AB - Host-seeking behaviour in newly emerged Aedes aegypti (L.) females is not expressed immediately after adult eclosion but develops gradually over a period of approximately 3-4 days. This development is accompanied by an apparent maturation of the antennal chemosensory afferent neurons involved in the detection of the airborne host attractant lactic acid. Since these events coincide in time with juvenile hormone-dependent previtellogenic ovarian growth and since the expression of other reproduction-associated behaviour has previously been shown to be dependent on juvenile hormone, the effects of juvenile hormone removal and replacement on the development of host-seeking behaviour and the response characteristics of the lactic acid-sensitive receptors were investigated. No effect of juvenile hormone removal by allatectomy or juvenile hormone replacement or augmentation by topical application of the juvenile hormone mimic methoprene was found. It was concluded that this hormone is not involved in the appearance of host-seeking behaviour or the apparent maturation of the lactic acid receptors that occurs during early imaginal life. PMID- 2519648 TI - Assessment of a silhouette trap for sampling zoophilic blackflies (Diptera: Simuliidae). AB - A collapsible animal-type silhouette trap was designed to catch zoophilic female blackflies (Diptera: Simuliidae) which feed on the head or ventral surface of cattle. The trap was assessed for its ability to sample attacking blackflies by comparison with simultaneous manual catches from a bait cow, in an enzootic bovine onchocerciasis area in North Wales. In thirteen 1-hour collections, the trap provided a representative sample of the blackfly population in terms of the relative abundance of species. There was a strong correlation between the catch sizes from both methods (r = +0.73), and the body site feeding preferences for all species were similar with both trap and cow. There was no significant difference between the Onchocerca spp. infection rates of flies caught by either method. PMID- 2519649 TI - Long-term storage of eggs of Simulium ornatum. AB - A method for the storage of non-diapausing eggs of Simulium ornatum Meigen has been developed. High survival rates for 5-6 months depend on the age of eggs when placed at reduced temperature. A period of precooling or conditioning is required for 28 days before storage of the eggs at 1 degree C with lowering of oxygen partial pressure. Induced quiescence does not appear to affect development from egg to adult. PMID- 2519650 TI - Rate of trypanosome killing by lectins in midguts of different species and strains of Glossina. AB - The activity of lectins in different species of tsetse was compared in vivo by the time taken to remove all trypanosomes from the midgut following an infective feed and in vitro by agglutination tests. Teneral male Glossina pallidipes Austen, G. austeni Newstead and G. p. palpalis R-D. removed 50% of all Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense Stephens & Fantham infections within 60 h. A 'refractory' line of G. m. morsitans Westwood took 170 h to kill 50% infections while a 'susceptible' line of the same species failed to kill 50%. Agglutination tests with midgut homogenates showed differences between fly stocks which accorded with differences in rate of trypanosome killing in vivo. Flies fed before an infective feed were able to remove trypanosomes from their midguts more quickly than flies infected as tenerals. Increasing the period of starvation before infection increased the susceptibility to trypanosome infection of non teneral flies. Teneral flies showed little agglutinating activity in vitro, suggesting that lectin is produced in response to the bloodmeal. Feeding flies before infection also abolished the differences in rate of trypanosome killing found between teneral 'susceptible' and 'refractory' G. m. morsitans, suggesting that maternally inherited susceptibility to trypanosome infection is a phenomenon limited to teneral flies. Electron micrographs of midguts of G. m. morsitans suggest that procyclic trypanosomes are killed by cell lysis, presumably the result of membrane damage caused by lectin action. PMID- 2519651 TI - Size and mortality rates of Glossina pallidipes in the semi-arid zone of southwestern Kenya. AB - Seasonal changes in the mean size of tsetse, Glossina pallidipes Austen, as indicated by wing vein length, were monitored during 1983-86 at Nguruman, southwestern Kenya. Changes in size of nulliparous females and wing fray category 1 males were shown to be correlated with the relative humidity 2 months before they were captured. Soil temperature when flies were in the pupal stage had much less effect. Size dependent mortality was demonstrated, with the mean size of flies emerging from pupae significantly less than that of field-caught flies. This mortality must occur at emergence, since there was no evidence of size dependent mortality once the flies became available to the trap. Size was correlated with density-independent mortality acting on the parent population 2 months previously. It might therefore be possible to use size as an index of the intensity of such mortality. This could be useful when assessing the level of additional mortality required to suppress tsetse populations. PMID- 2519652 TI - Rapid microtitre plate test distinguishes insecticide resistant acetylcholinesterase genotypes in the mosquitoes Anopheles albimanus, An. nigerrimus and Culex pipiens. AB - A rapid method of distinguishing insecticide insensitive acetylcholinesterase (AChE) genotypes was applied to three species of mosquitoes. This relies on comparing rates of an AChE mediated reaction in the presence and absence of insecticides which are inhibitors, using a kinetic microtitre plate reader. Clearer and more rapid resolution between genotypes was achieved than with previous assays which measure the amount of product formed at a fixed end-point. Results are presented for the F1s from crossing resistant and susceptible Anopheles albimanus Wiedemann and Culex pipiens L., for a strain of An. albimanus with a translocation linking the AChE gene to the Y chromosome and for field collected An. nigerrimus Giles. Propoxur and malaoxon were used as inhibitors. In all three species the enzyme was more insensitive to propoxur than malaoxon. Susceptible enzymes in all species also showed higher uninhibited AChE activity than their resistant counterparts. Presentation of both inhibited and uninhibited activities side by side may be useful to identify insects likely to be misclassified due to abnormally low AChE activities. Estimated frequencies of the three resistance genotypes in field populations of An. nigerrimus conformed to Hardy-Weinberg ratios. The implications of this technique for laboratory and field studies on insects are discussed. PMID- 2519653 TI - Midgut and salivary gland barriers to La Crosse virus dissemination in mosquitoes of the Aedes triseriatus group. AB - Vector competence for La Crosse virus (LACV) was compared for four species in the Aedes (Protomacleaya) triseriatus group: Ae. triseriatus (Say), Ae. hendersoni Cockerell, Ae. zoosophus Dyar and Knab and Ae. brelandi Zavortink (Diptera: Culicidae). Rates of replication and dissemination of virus in the mosquito hosts were compared and rates of oral transmission of virus to suckling mice were determined. Barriers to virus dissemination which limited the ability of each species to transmit virus were identified. Ae. zoosophus displayed the highest vector competence for LACV. Both infection and transmission rates were high: 99% and 85% respectively; no significant barriers to LACV were found. Disseminated infection of Ae. triseriatus with LACV was controlled primarily be a midgut escape barrier. When virus was introduced directly into the haemocoel, transmission rates were significantly increased (37% v. 79%). Ae. hendersoni showed high susceptibility to LACV infection but a very low rate of oral transmission (7%). Ae. brelandi was also highly susceptible to infection by LACV and transmitted virus at an intermediate rate (27%). Modulation of vector competence in both Ae. hendersoni and Ae. brelandi resulted from a salivary gland escape barrier. As these four species of mosquitoes comprise a closely related monophyletic series, their differences of vector competence for LACV provide an excellent model for studying the genetic basis of the barriers involved. PMID- 2519654 TI - Distribution of phlebotomine sandflies and the rate of their infection with Leishmania promastigotes in the Algarve, Portugal. AB - Four species of sandflies: Phlebotomus (Larroussius) perniciosus Newstead, Sergentomyia minuta (Rondani), Phlebotomus (Paraphlebotomus) sergenti Parrot and Phlebotomus (Larroussius) ariasi Tonnoir, were collected, by aspiration and light traps, from three dog kennels and an area of high prevalence of human and canine visceral leishmaniasis in the Algarve, Portugal. Midgut infections with leishmanial promastigotes were observed only in P. perniciosus with a minimum infection rate of 5%. The engorgement, gravidity, population dynamics and sex ratios of the sandflies, and the temperature, source and altitude of collection sites were examined. Host preferences were noted for P. perniciosus. PMID- 2519655 TI - Absence of outer caudal setae on all larval instars of Phlebotomus tobbi from the Ionian Greek islands. AB - Larval instars 2, 3 and 4 of Phlebotomus tobbi Adler, Theodor & Lourie from the Greek islands of Corfu and Zakynthos were found to have two caudal setae instead of the four usually present on these instars of Phlebotomus larvae. In a scanning electron microscope comparison with larvae of P. papatasi (Scopoli), a sensillum was seen in place of each outer seta of P. tobbi larvae, suggesting secondary loss of the setae. As the larvae of less than a tenth of the species and subspecies of the genus Phlebotomus have been seen and described, it cannot be assumed that those of P. tobbi are unique in having only two caudal setae. However, four caudal setae in late instars can no longer be considered as a constant character of the genus Phlebotomus. Observations on the larvae of P. tobbi also raise the question of the unknown function of the caudal setae. PMID- 2519656 TI - Control of haematophagous flies on equines with permethrin-impregnated eartags. AB - The efficacy of 10% (w/w) permethrin impregnated eartags for the control of the haematophagous fly pests Stomoxys calcitrans L., Haematopota dissimilis Meigen and Hippobosca maculata Leach on equines in India was determined. The tags were found to be effective for 1-2 months against S. calcitrans and H. dissimilis but completely ineffective against H. maculata. No tags were lost during the study. Tags can be used as part of an integrated control programme. This is the first reported use of eartags for control of haematophagous flies on horses. PMID- 2519657 TI - Lectin signalling of maturation of T. congolense infections in tsetse. AB - The process of maturation of Trypanosoma congolense Broden in tsetse has been shown to be initiated by lectin secreted in the fly midgut. In the present study the duration of lectin signal required to induce maturation was determined by the sequential addition or removal of a specific lectin inhibitor (D+glucosamine) to the diet of infected male Glossina morsitans Westwood. An established midgut infection of T.congolense was found to require, at most, 72 h exposure to midgut lectin to begin the process of maturation. Longer exposure to midgut lectin increased the frequency of maturation, suggesting clonal variation in response to lectin stimulation occurs within trypanosome stocks. It is suggested that this variation corresponds to differences in lectin binding sites on the trypanosome surface. Midgut trypanosomes retained their ability to mature throughout their life in the fly; when lectin activity in the midgut was inhibited, the trypanosomes remained as procyclic forms but when this inhibition was removed maturation was able to proceed. This indicates that the process of maturation is dependent upon a signal from the fly and is not predetermined by the trypanosomes undergoing a fixed number of division cycles. The possible role of lectins in the maturation of trypanosomes in vitro is discussed. PMID- 2519658 TI - The roles of vision and olfaction in mate location by males of the tsetse fly Glossina morsitans morsitans. AB - The roles of visual and/or olfactory stimuli in eliciting mating responses from male Glossina morsitans morsitans Westwood were examined, using a system for automatically recording the number and duration of mating strikes made towards decoys, under controlled conditions. The results confirm that there is no olfactory component of the female sex recognition pheromone sensed by the male antennae, and the attraction of males to females appears to be visual. The absence of male-male mating strikes was the result of the absence of female sex pheromone, rather than the presence of a repellent mating deterrent in the male cuticle. Experiments with coloured, artificial, sex-pheromone-dosed, cotton decoys showed that colour had only weak effects on attractiveness and number of encounters with decoys, and that no colour caused significant enhancement of mating responses over those shown to decoy females. PMID- 2519659 TI - Evaluations of permethrin-impregnated clothing and three topical repellent formulations of deet against tsetse flies in Zambia. AB - Permethrin-impregnated clothing and three topical repellent formulations of deet (diethyltoluamide) were field tested against natural populations of tsetse flies, mostly Glossina morsitans centralis Machado, in central Zambia. Volunteers wore different combinations of clothing impregnated with permethrin 0.125 mg ai/cm2 and repellents while riding in a vehicle that was driven slowly (4-6 km/h), with the windows and rear door open, through fly-infested areas. The mean rate of tsetse bites was about twenty per 75 min for unprotected people. The treatment combination of permethrin-impregnated clothing (blue cotton coveralls) and either of two controlled-release deet formulations on exposed skin of face and arms provided 91% mean protection, but this was not significantly better (P greater than 0.05) than wearing deet repellent alone (76-87% protection). No significant differences of protection were observed between the three repellent treatments, although the two controlled-release formulations (intended to be more persistent) were applied at approximately half the dosage of the standard 75% deet. Wearing permethrin-impregnated coveralls alone provided relatively poor protection (34%) for the untreated and exposed skin of head and hands. However, olive drab mesh jackets treated with permethrin reduced the tsetse biting rate by 75%. PMID- 2519660 TI - The influence of seasonal temperatures on the natural regulation of the screwworm, Cochliomyia hominivorax, in the southern U.S.A. AB - The incidence of screwworm cases in Texas during the 1962-82 sterile-male eradication campaign is analysed in relation to seasonal temperatures and screwworm density. The analysis shows that screwworm outbreaks occur in response to favourable seasonal conditions, especially warm winters and cool summers. The outbreaks collapse following cold winters and hot summers. Screwworm density in autumn also influences rates of increase, possibly through a shortage of wounded hosts in the autumn-winter period. The analysis provides a simple predictive model which not only accounts for the fluctuations in case incidence seen in Texas during the eradication campaign, which others have attributed to strain problems and release methods, but also simulates the historical pattern of screwworm abundance in both Texas and Florida over the last 100 years. It is concluded that screwworm, being essentially a tropical species, might well have been eradicated from the southern U.S.A. by exceptionally unfavourable climate such as occurred in Florida in 1958 and in Texas in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Certainly, unfavourable climate must have been important to the success of the eradication campaigns. PMID- 2519661 TI - Influence of habitat and temperature on dispersal behaviour of two pteromalid parasitoids of houseflies during an inundative release at a dairy barn. AB - 1. About 11,000 each of Muscidifurax raptor Girault and Saunders and Urolepis rufipes (Ashmead) were released weekly for 7 weeks at a commercial dairy farm in central New York state, U.S.A. Dispersal behaviour was monitored by parasitism rates of house fly, Musca domestica L., pupae placed in sentinel bags. 2. M. raptor, which was released inside the barn, parasitized fly pupae both inside and outside, and it achieved highest rates of parasitism in indoor straw calf-bedding and in outdoor manure and silage. 3. U. rufipes, which was released outside the barn, did not attack pupae inside the barn, and its highest rates of parasitism occurred in outdoor manure and silage. 4. M. raptor appeared to be more effective than U. rufipes in parasitizing pupae located at sites where natural fly-breeding occurred. 5. Interspecific competition did not appear to explain these distribution patterns. 6. There was no significant trend in parasitism by M. raptor as a function of distance from the release station. Furthermore, high rates of parasitism near open doorways and at an outdoor site 30 m away suggests that M. raptor dispersed throughout the barn and its immediate surroundings. 7. Air temperature was positively correlated to flight activity, but not to parasitization activity in natural fly-breeding substrates. PMID- 2519662 TI - Population dynamics of Triatoma infestans under natural climatic conditions in the Argentine Chaco. AB - Using experimental chicken houses at a site in central Argentina where the bug Triatoma infestans (Klug) is endemic, nine populations of this vector of Chagas disease were monitored during a 34-month period. Bug populations with four chickens as hosts were consistently larger than those with two chickens as hosts. Age structure of the bug population followed a similar pattern irrespective of the initial age structure. Egg to adult mortality was consistently around 98.5% and there was no consistent evidence for density-dependent mortality. There was some evidence for density dependence in fecundity and recruitment rates, but these were heavily constrained by low temperatures during the winter months. Nymphal development rates correlated most strongly with mean minimum temperatures rather than with mean maximum temperatures. We conclude that vector control using insecticides against this species would be most effective at the onset of winter, when recovery of any surviving populations would be inhibited by low temperatures. PMID- 2519664 TI - Activities and physiological states of male and female Tabanus sackeni. AB - Male and female Tabanus sackeni Fairchild (Diptera: Tabanidae) were collected on a road, dipping at pools of water on a road, and at uv-light traps; females were also caught in Malaise traps. Most males at uv-light traps were collected just before sunrise. Most females at uv-light traps were collected in the evening and most had recently taken a bloodmeal. Malaise-trapped females showed a distinct crepuscular peak of host-seeking activity. Crop volumes were variable in these host-seeking females; many had large crops. Crop volumes were small in individuals of both sexes collected dipping or on the road. Many dipping females were gravid. By examining how physiological states and the behaviour of individuals changed according to trap type, we are able to make inferences about the timing and importance of a number of unobserved activities. A link between uptake of water and sugar feeding was apparent and we postulate that mating takes place in the early morning, just before sunrise. PMID- 2519663 TI - Vector capacity of Rhipicephalus appendiculatus and Amblyomma variegatum for Thogoto and Dhori viruses. AB - Experimental studies were undertaken to ascertain the vector potential of Rhipicephalus appendiculatus Neumann and Amblyomma variegatum Fabricius for Thogoto (THO) and Dhori (DHO) viruses, candidate members of the Orthomyxoviridae. In the first set of experiments, ticks were infected orally by feeding on viraemic hamsters. THO virus replicated in R. appendiculatus and A. variegatum, persisted trans-stadially in both tick species, and was transmitted to susceptible hosts during feeding. In contrast, both R. appendiculatus and A. variegatum were refractory to per os infection by DHO virus. In the second set of experiments, engorged R. appendiculatus and A. variegatum nymphs were parenterally inoculated with DHO virus. The virus persisted trans-stadially in both tick species and was transmitted by bite to susceptible hosts. These results indicate that the midgut acts as a barrier to per os infection of R. appendiculatus and A. variegatum by DHO virus. However, when this barrier is bypassed, i.e. by parenteral inoculation, both R. appendiculatus and A. variegatum can serve as efficient vectors of DHO virus. PMID- 2519665 TI - Ectoparasites of the Irish stoat. AB - A sample of 196 Irish stoats Mustela ermineae hibernica Thomas & Barrett-Hamilton (Carnivora: Mustelidae) were examined and yielded 2580 arthropod ectoparasites, including 1819 larval mites Neotrombicula autumnalis (Shaw) from a single host. Other ectoparasites recovered included lice (99% Trichodectes ermineae (Hopkins], ticks (mostly Ixodes hexagonus Leach) and four species of fleas. The ticks and fleas were considered to have come mainly from nests of other hosts. The flea species did not reflect the status of their usual hosts in the diet of stoats, but did reflect the stoats' use of their usual hosts' habitat. PMID- 2519666 TI - Laboratory response of female Lutzomyia longipalpis sandflies to a host and male pheromone source over distance. AB - A nylon net cage (260 x 40 x 40 cm) provided with unidirectional air flow was used to demonstrate the response of female sandflies, Lutzomyia longipalpis Lutz & Neiva (Diptera: Psychodidae) to a host and extract of male pheromone glands over a distance of 240 cm. Females responded more rapidly and in greater numbers to the host if male pheromone was present. Results suggest that one function of the pheromone may be to attract females from some distance to a common mating site, on or near the host. PMID- 2519667 TI - Long-term storage of eggs of Simulium damnosum. PMID- 2519668 TI - Uptake and persistence of ingested antibody in the mosquito Anopheles stephensi. AB - A sensitive ELISA was developed to monitor the persistence of a specific antibody, rabbit anti-BSA, in the bloodmeal, haemolymph and tissues of the mosquito Anopheles stephensi Liston. Different concentrations of anti-BSA were fed to female mosquitoes in sheep blood, via a membrane-feeder, and it was found that antibody persisted in the gut as the bloodmeal was digested: concentrations present at 24 h were directly related to those fed. Homogenates of mosquito bodies, from which the intact guts had been removed, were always antibody positive up to 9 days post-feeding, indicating that undigested antibody had passed through the gut wall into the haemocoele. Haemolymph was extracted from mosquitoes at different times post-feeding, using a microcapillary and manipulator, and antibody was detected in several of the assays. The level of antibodies in the haemolymph 24 h post-feeding was less than half of the level in mosquito heads, indicating removal of antibodies from the haemolymph, perhaps by binding onto haemocoelic tissues. The relevance of these results to the ingestion, survival and fate of antibody against malaria sporozoites is discussed. PMID- 2519669 TI - Diel biting activity of Culex (Melanoconion) caudelli in Trinidad, West Indies. AB - The diel biting periodicity of the arbovirus vector Culex (Melanoconion) caudelli Dyar and Knab (Diptera; Culicidae) in the Aripo-Wallerfield forest, Trinidad, was studied by collecting mosquitoes attracted to mouse-baited traps at 2-hourly intervals during eight 24 h periods. Biting females of Cx caudelli were collected during all night-time hours, 18.00-06.00 hours, with an overall unimodal pattern, i.e. one well-defined peak between 22.00 and 04.00 hours. This contrasts with previous reports that Cx caudelli is diurnally active. During the four moon phases, the period of peak biting activity varied from 22.00 to 24.00 hours at fullmoon, from 22.00 to 04.00 hours at first quarter, and from 24.00 to 02.00 hours at new moon and last quarter phases. The number of mosquitoes collected varied significantly with moon phases, the highest (152/24 h) being collected in the first lunar quarter and the lowest (71/24 h) in the last lunar quarter. Cloud cover and rainfall had no significant effect on the diel biting periodicity of Cx caudelli. PMID- 2519670 TI - Responses of Anopheles gambiae complex mosquitoes to the use of untreated bednets in The Gambia. AB - Population dynamics of the Anopheles gambiae complex of malaria vector mosquitoes were studied in four small hamlets in The Gambia. Bednets were used to reduce man/vector contact in two of the hamlets. High densities of An. gambiae, sensu lato, were present for only 3-8 weeks during the rainy season, depending on the position of the hamlet within the study area. The proportions of blood-fed mosquitoes caught indoors (83.0%) and existing from houses (11.6%) were lower in hamlets where bednets were used than in hamlets without (96.5% and 33.1% respectively). Fewer of the blood-fed mosquitoes had fed on man in houses where people slept under bednets (68.2%) than in those without (81.5%). However, the average number of infective bites received by children was still greater than one a year in hamlets where bednets were used. Consequently bednets are considered unlikely to be an effective malaria control measure so long as they are untreated with insecticide. PMID- 2519671 TI - Impact of permethrin-treated bednets on malaria transmission by the Anopheles gambiae complex in The Gambia. AB - Malaria vector mosquitoes belonging to the Anopheles gambiae complex were studied in four hamlets in The Gambia. All inhabitants were given bednets treated either with a placebo (milk) in two hamlets or with the pyrethroid insecticide permethrin (500 mg/m2) in two other hamlets. Malaria transmission occurred mainly during a few weeks of the rainy season, in September and October 1987. The indoor resting densities of mosquitoes in permethrin-treated hamlets were reduced, and we estimated over 90% reduction in biting on man by An. gambiae Giles sensu stricto in these hamlets. No mosquitoes were found under permethrin-treated bednets compared with eighty-one recovered from placebo-treated bednets. Mosquitoes exited more readily from rooms where permethrin-treated bednets were used than from rooms with placebo-treated nets. The annual mean probability that a child would receive an infective bite was estimated to be 0.09 in hamlets with insecticide-treated bednets, compared with 1.9 where placebo-treated bednets were used. Permethrin-treated bednets are therefore recommended as a means of effectively reducing the risk of exposure to malaria transmission, particularly in areas of low seasonal transmission. PMID- 2519672 TI - The potential geographical distribution of the Old World screw-worm fly, Chrysomya bezziana. AB - The potential geographical distribution and relative abundance of the Old World screw-worm fly, Chrysomya bezziana Villeneuve (Diptera: Calliphoridae) as determined by climate, was assessed using CLIMEX, a computer program for matching climates. CLIMEX describes the relative growth and persistence of animal populations in relation to climate. The observed global distribution of C.bezziana was compared with the potential distribution predicted by CLIMEX. The differences in the two distributions indicate the areas at risk of colonization, with particular reference to Australia and the Americas. According to the model, the potential area of permanent colonization in Australia extends south to the mid-coast of New South Wales. Comparison of areas suitable for permanent establishment with the potential summer distribution indicates that large additional areas, carrying most of the continent's livestock, could be colonized in the summer months. Seasonal population growth indices are presented for three ports in Australia at which screw-worm fly specimens have been collected by quarantine authorities. They indicate the relative risk associated with introductions at different places in different seasons and so provide valuable planning information for quarantine authorities. The CLIMEX predictions for C.bezziana in North America are shown to be similar to the recorded distribution limits of the New World screw-worm fly, Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel). The fly could also colonize South America, as far south as southern Brazil and midway through Argentina. PMID- 2519673 TI - The value of chorionic structure and size in the diagnosis of blowfly eggs. AB - Chorionic structure and size can be of great value in the identification of the eggs of British blowflies of forensic importance. The most useful features are the shape and structure of the plastronic area between the hatching pleats. Correct identification of the eggs of the species considered here would be of use in forensic investigations, not only in Britain, but also in the wide area of the Holarctic region. PMID- 2519674 TI - Monitoring and selection of resistance to pyrethroids in the Australian sheep blowfly, Lucilia cuprina. AB - Field and laboratory populations of the Australian sheep blowfly, Lucilia cuprina (Wiedemann) (Calliphoridae), were surveyed by bioassay for possible resistance to the synthetic pyrethroids, a group of insecticides under development for blowfly control. A normal distribution of LC50 values was found using deltamethrin, the test pyrethroid, with no indication of specific resistance despite widespread use of deltamethrin on sheep to control the sheep body louse, Damalinia ovis (Schrank) (Trichodectidae). There was no cross-resistance to deltamethrin from existing organophosphate (OP) resistance nor from previous use of DDT. Selection with deltamethrin on a combined field strain, CSF85, increased the LC50 gradually over the first twenty generations until it stabilized at approximately 25x that of the unselected CSF85. This laboratory-induced resistance extended to other pyrethroids, cypermethrin (16x), cyhalothrin (25x) and cycloprothrin (10x), and increased the existing resistance of CFS85 to the OP diazinon (11x) and the carbamate, butacarb (83x). PMID- 2519675 TI - Ovarian development in the blowflies Chrysomya putoria and C. megacephala on natural diets. AB - Fresh human, chicken and cattle faeces were compared as diets for adult female blowflies Chrysomya megacephala (Fabricius) and C.putoria (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Calliphoridae). As controls, sugar and raw beef liver were used. For females of both species, fresh beef liver was the best of these diets: oogenesis was completed in 10-13 days. Human or chicken faeces facilitated slower oogenesis in 27-48 days. On a diet of cattle faeces, C.putoria females began vitellogenesis only 17 days after emergence, whereas females of C.megacephala remained previtellogenic until the end of the experiment (56 days). PMID- 2519676 TI - Effect of host odours on trap catch composition of Glossina pallidipes in Kenya. AB - The effect of odour attractants on the composition of samples of Glossina pallidipes Austen was investigated by comparing the age and nutritional status of flies caught in unbaited biconical traps with those caught in traps baited with cow urine and acetone. For both male and female flies, baited traps caught more flies with significantly higher fat content than did unbaited traps. Thus the samples from baited traps were more representative of the population as a whole: males showed a fuller range of the fat/haematin conditions known to occur in the field and proportionately more females were in later stages of the pregnancy cycle, than from unbaited traps. PMID- 2519677 TI - Ecological aspects of cattle tick control in central Zambia. AB - In ecological studies in central Zambia, both climate and ecotype affected population dynamics of tick species. Below average rainfall for several years caused a suppression in numbers of Rhipicephalus appendiculatus Neumann adults. Reduction in rainfall leading to changes in grazing patterns is thought to have been responsible for an increase in numbers of Amblyomma variegatum Fabricius adults in a grassland habitat. There were reasonable correlations between numbers of each tick species on individual hosts over 1 year old. However, there were no relationships between numbers of ticks and bovine lymphocyte antigens (BoLA). PMID- 2519678 TI - Effect of tick control on liveweight gain of cattle in central Zambia. AB - Field trials were carried out during 1982-86 in two different ecotypes in central Zambia to determine the impact of tick control on the liveweight gain (LWG) of cattle. During the first 2 years of the trial a diamidide acaricide (Amitraz) sprayed at weekly intervals caused periodic depression in LWG in young animals. Thereafter a pyrethroid acaricide (cypermethrin) was used. During the 1984-85 tick season infestations of 50-120 adult Amblyomma variegatum Fabricius in untreated animals caused significant reductions in LWG. From the differences in LWG between treated and untreated cattle, the induced loss in LWG was estimated at 46-61 g per engorged female A.variegatum. PMID- 2519679 TI - Inefficacy of phosphine fumigation against ticks. PMID- 2519680 TI - An automatic maggot counter for use in blowfly development studies. PMID- 2519681 TI - An improvised air filter for sandfly aspirators. PMID- 2519682 TI - Estimation of the interval between feeding and capture in peridomestic Glossina tachinoides. AB - From successive 24-hourly dissections of non-teneral field-caught Glossina tachinoides Westwood which had fed on a guinea-pig in the laboratory, the progressive movement of a bloodmeal through the midgut was monitored and five stages (categories) in the trophic cycle identified. The frequency distribution in these trophic categories of G.tachinoides subsequently caught in the peridomestic agro-ecosystem at Orie-Orba near Nsukka by means of the biconical trap revealed that males and females had fed 2.8 +/- 0.4 and 2.4 +/- 0.4 days respectively preceding their capture. PMID- 2519683 TI - Resistance and cross-resistance in guinea-pigs and rabbits to immature stages of ixodid ticks. AB - Infestation of guinea-pigs and rabbits with larvae of any one of five species of ticks, Rhipicephalus appendiculatus Neumann, Rhipicephalus evertsi evertsi Neumann, Amblyomma hebrauem Koch, Amblyomma variegatum Fabricius and Ixodes ricinus L., conferred resistance in the animals when exposed to subsequent infestations with the same tick species. Resistance to infestations by other tick species was not observed. PMID- 2519684 TI - Effectiveness of zooprophylaxis in malaria control: a theoretical inquiry, with a model for mosquito populations with two bloodmeal hosts. AB - A model for a vector mosquito population with two bloodmeal hosts (man and a domestic animal) was developed to study the influences of domestic animals on the frequency of mosquito bites on man and the endemicity of human malaria. The vector population model, including blood-feeding success in the adult stage (depending on host density and biting efficiency) and density-dependent regulation in the larval stage, was combined with the Ross-Macdonald malaria transmission model. Model analyses suggested that introduction of domestic animals easily fed upon by mosquitoes increases mosquito density and, in some situations, frequency of mosquito bites on man and the infection rate of malaria through increased success of blood-feeding. Extinction of malaria was predicted only when an extremely large number of easily accessible (as compared to man) domestic animals are introduced. Limitations in the concept of zooprophylaxis and problems of livestock management in malaria control are discussed. PMID- 2519685 TI - Efficacy of mosquito nets treated with permethrin in Suriname. AB - In the rain-forest of Suriname, where malaria is endemic, 95% of the Maroons (who call themselves bush-negroes) and all Amerindians use mosquito nets made of cotton cloth or, less frequently, nylon or cotton gauze over their hammocks or beds. Bush-negroes usually wash their nets weekly; Amerindians wash nets at 1-4 month intervals. Females of the principal local malaria vector, Anopheles darlingi Root, were seen blood-feeding through cotton cloth netting (at 22.30 23.30 hours) on a person sleeping in a hammock; others fed successfully after the net was opened in the morning. Cotton cloth impregnated with permethrin at a rate of 0.5 g/m2 killed all An. darlingi females exposed for 2 min, but after the material had been washed twice in soapy water the bioassay mortality fell to only 21.4%. Exit traps on a hut with a single sleeper protected by a permethrin impregnated net yielded 185 An. darlingi females (12% blood-fed) in 74 nights, compared with 276 females (19% blood-fed) from another hut with a sleeper using an untreated net on the same nights (P less than 0.001). No An. darlingi females remained resting alive indoors in these huts during the daytime, and very few were found dead on the floor in the mornings (one treated, seven untreated). The 24 h mortality rate for those collected in exit traps was 58.4% for the test hut and 27.1% for the control hut (P less than 0.001). Bioassays of permethrin treated cotton cloth using laboratory-reared sugar-fed Culex quinquefasciatus Say females showed that sprayed nets were less effective than nets impregnated by soaking (at equivalent dosages of 0.16-1.34 g/m2 measured by chemical assay) and confirmed that washing causes severe decline in insecticidal activity. The feasibility of local mass treatment of mosquito nets is discussed. PMID- 2519686 TI - Permethrin-impregnated bednets: behavioural and killing effects on mosquitoes. AB - Permethrin-treated pieces of netting and simulated bednets were evaluated against Anopheles gambiae Giles and Aedes aegypti (L.) in the laboratory. When female mosquitoes were allowed to feed on a human arm through pieces of impregnated netting fastened at the end of tubes, doses above 2 g/m2 were required to stop blood-feeding of both An. gambiae and Ae. aegypti. A much lower dose prevented Ae. aegypti from feeding on mice through impregnated netting. When mosquitoes were released in a room and a human subject sat under a permethrin-impregnated (0.2 g/m2) bednet with an arm pressed against the net (mesh 1.5 mm), mosquitoes failed to bite through the net. All the mosquitoes trying to bite through or entering the net through holes cut in it were knocked down within 30 min of release and ultimately died. Permethrin-impregnated wide-mesh (4 or 8 mm) bednets similarly prevented entry and caused high mortality-rates of An. gambiae. PMID- 2519687 TI - Permethrin-impregnated bednets reduce nuisance arthropods in Gambian houses. AB - The prevalence of bedbugs (Cimex hemipterus L.), chicken ticks (Argas persicus Oken) and headlice (Pediculus capitis De Geer) was surveyed in a rural area of The Gambia. At the beginning of the study 37.5% of children's beds were infested with bedbugs and 3.9% with chicken ticks, whilst the prevalence rate of pediculosis in children under 10 years old was 28.8%. Both bedbugs and headlice were clustered within compounds. Headlice prevalence increased with hair length and they were more common on girls than boys. Following this cross-sectional survey all bednets in the sixteen hamlets were either dipped in permethrin or a placebo. About 4 months later it was found that bedbugs and chicken ticks had disappeared from homes in which the bednets had been impregnated with permethrin. There was no reduction in hamlets with placebo-treated bednets. The rate of acquiring headlice between the two surveys was reduced by 91.1% in children who slept under insecticide-treated bednets compared with children with placebo treated bednets. There were also significantly fewer day-flying and crawling insects, except earwigs, in homes of children who slept under insecticide-treated bednets compared with those with placebo-treated nets. These additional benefits of permethrin-treated bednets should contribute to their widespread acceptance and utilization by the community for personal protection. PMID- 2519688 TI - Vertical transmission of hepatitis B virus in Culex quinquefasciatus. AB - An investigation of the vertical transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in Culex quinquefasciatus Say revealed the presence of low levels of the virus in adult F1 progeny from the first ovarian cycle of mosquitoes infected by feeding on HBV positive human blood. HBV was not transmitted vertically during the second, third and fourth ovarian cycles nor to the F2 generation. The salivary glands, ovaries and faeces of the F1 generation did not contain detectable levels of HBV. Progeny of female Cx quinquefasciatus mated with F1 males were negative for HBV. PMID- 2519690 TI - Responses of tsetse flies (Glossina spp.) to compounds on the skin surface of an ox: a laboratory study. AB - The behaviour of male Glossina morsitans morsitans Westwood and Glossina pallidipes Austen (Diptera: Glossinidae) alighting on targets with or without ox sebum was compared. The presence of ox sebum did not increase significantly the number of flies alighting on the target in either species. However, after contact with the sebum coated target, both species showed an increase in flight activity, and G. m.morsitans showed a greater tendency to return to the target. This behaviour resulted in a number of short flights which may reflect the search for a feeding site on a host. The duration of each visit to the target was significantly reduced when sebum was present for G. m. morsitans but not for G. pallidipes. This is explained by documented differences in the resting behaviour of the two species which shows that G. m. morsitans normally rests for longer periods on the surface of an untreated black target than does G. pallidipes. Other experiments showed that the presence of sebum elicited a probing response in G. m. morsitans and G. pallidipes. The results are discussed with reference to the possible use of host sebum to improve trap catches in the field. PMID- 2519689 TI - Scanning electron microscopy of the posterior spiracles of cattle grubs Hypoderma bovis and Hypoderma lineatum. AB - Posterior spiracles of newly hatched first instar larvae of Hypoderma bovis (L.) and H. lineatum (DeVill.) consist of two pairs of spiracular openings. Each pair is surrounded by a rima bearing three spines. Posterior spiracles of second instar larvae are composed of a pair of medial ecdysial scars bounded laterally by spiracular plates. H. bovis spiracular plates have twenty-nine to forty openings, each surrounded by a slightly raised rima. H. lineatum spiracular plates have eighteen to twenty-five openings. Spiracular openings lead to posterior felt chambers which are connected to a common anterior felt chamber filled with a meshlike network. In third instar H. bovis each medial ecdysial scar is surrounded by a strongly concave spiracular plate. Spiracular openings are surrounded by slightly raised rima. Most rimae bear a spine. Spiracular plates of H. lineatum are flat and rimae are without spines. Each spiracular opening leads to a posterior felt chamber, several of which are confluent with a larger anterior felt chamber. Anterior felt chambers open into the dorsal longitudinal tracheal trunk. Felt chambers in third instar larvae are also filled with a complex mesh. PMID- 2519691 TI - The effects on domestic infestations of Cimex lectularius bedbugs of interspecific mating with C. hemipterus. AB - Interspecific mating between male Cimex hemipterus and female C. lectularius bedbugs (Hemiptera: Cimicidae) occurs freely in the laboratory, even when many female C. hemipterus are available. Longevity and fertile egg production of female C. lectularius are reduced by mating with male C. hemipterus. In KwaZulu, South Africa, a correlation exists between the percentage of C. lectularius females which are interspecifically mated and the predominance of C. hemipterus in mixed domestic infestations of these bedbugs. When C. hemipterus constitutes over 75% of the infestation, the majority of C. lectularius females lay only sterile eggs. PMID- 2519692 TI - Genetic variation in the body weight of ticks of the Rhipicephalus appendiculatus/zambeziensis complex. AB - Sixteen strains of ticks of the Rhipicephalus appendiculatus/zambeziensis complex were created by cross-breeding for one to three generations. The body-weights of adult male ticks of these consanguineous lines were compared. A significant genetic variation was distinguished between the groups. Three classes whose mean weights varied around, respectively, 2, 3 and 4 mg/adult male tick, were found. This variation in weight may be explained by hybridization between R. appendiculatus Neumann and R. zambeziensis Walker, Norval & Corwin. Hybrid ticks were undersized whereas R. appendiculatus and R. zambeziensis groups had significantly higher weights. PMID- 2519693 TI - Experimental transmission of murine typhus by Xenopsylla cheopis flea bites. AB - Transmission of Rickettsia typhi to rats by the bites of Xenopsylla cheopis (Rothschild) fleas was investigated. Procedures rigorously excluded the possibility of contamination of the host skin by flea faeces. Fleas with R. typhi infection (21-25 days post-infection) which fed through bolting cloth (45 min exposure to ten fleas) transmitted rickettsiae with a success rate of 20%. Infective fleas allowed free access to their host for 8 h (10-15 fleas/rat) gave transmission rates of 45-68%. They were also capable of inoculating R. typhi through a membrane of rat skin on a feeder. Only fleas which had been infected for 21 days or longer transmitted R. typhi orally. Oral transmission appeared to be the result of regurgitation of rickettsiae present in the foregut lumen rather than through salivary secretions. PMID- 2519694 TI - Effect of temperature on toxicity of three pyrethroids to horn flies. AB - Predictive models describing best-fit regression equations for per cent mortality of horn flies as a function of temperature were determined for each of three pyrethroid insecticides (fenvalerate, flucythrinate and permethrin) over the temperature range 20-35 degrees C. Susceptible horn flies, Haematobia irritans (L.), were exposed to c. an LC70 dose of each pyrethroid using a residue-on-glass method. This technique used confined exposure in chambers with temperatures of 20, 25, 30 and 35 degrees C. Within this range, mortality was greatest at 25 degrees C with all three insecticides. Estimated temperature-mortality equations for each pyrethroid revealed different responses of horn flies to each of these insecticides. Horn flies exposed to flucythrinate demonstrated a linear mortality response that varied inversely with temperature. The response to permethrin was described by a quadratic equation, while the response to fenvalerate was best fitted by a cubic equation. PMID- 2519695 TI - Efficacy of permethrin-impregnated curtains against endophilic phlebotomine sandflies in Burkina Faso. PMID- 2519696 TI - A Culex egg raft is not necessarily laid by only one female. PMID- 2519698 TI - [Validity and structural adequacy of the national examination for admission to specialized medical education. Evaluation of the test corresponding to the 1988 89 summons]. PMID- 2519699 TI - [Health care consequences of traffic accidents in Spain]. AB - The paper consists of a descriptive study on the occurrence and distribution of Traffic Accidents in Spain and their health care consequences. The differences that exist in comparison with other countries of the C.E.E. are analyzed and measures of all types are formulated which must be further delved into in order to decrease and remedy this calamity. PMID- 2519697 TI - [Social inequality and mortality in Spain]. AB - The routine information sources published by the National Statistics Institute have been used to show the mortality rate with regard to the socioeconomic situation. Occupation has been used as an indicator for the socioeconomic position. The deaths of males between the ages of 16 and 65 years have been considered. The population chosen was that which figured in the 1981 Census. The measurements which have been studied are the Standardized Mortality Rate, the Standardized Mortality Ratio (SMR) and Potential Life Years Lost (PLYL). Differences in mortality according to occupational group have been found; group VII always displayed the worst results. The Mortality Rate of this group is 1.65 times higher than that group I, the SMR is 149 (100 in group I) and the PLYL rate is 43.59 per 1000 (per 28.48 in group I). The best results in group V have been attributed to the lack of homogeneity among its components, thus limiting its use in this type of study. PMID- 2519700 TI - [Coxiella burnetti: serologic study on bovine from the community of Madrid]. AB - Complement fixative antibodies are determined with regard to Coxiella burnetii in phase II, in 106 serum samples taken from cattle in the Madrid region. The overall prevalence of antibodies was 66.98% and 11.32% was high titer. The result obtained are compared with the results from other studies. PMID- 2519701 TI - [Frequency of diagnosis of the cardiology specialty requiring the assistance of the lung and heart specialty in the social security ambulatory services: province of Valencia]. AB - A cross-study has been carried out of the demand for specialised medical attention, by disease process, in Heart and Lung outpatient consultations. Cardiac morbidity diagnosed in consultations carried out in the province of Valencia has been analysed. The results from the various institutions (C.I.E. Novena Revision) fall into different age groups. They are also differentiated by first and second visits. Chronic cardiocirculatory diseases are the most frequently attended on an outpatient basis by the Heart specialist. "Other forms of chronic ischemia of the heart" is the nosological classification which is diagnosed the most in the week the sample was taken. The disorders being studied appear most during the second stage of life. PMID- 2519702 TI - [Effectiveness of the washing system in reusable glass containers: 3 "washing trials" at water bottling plants. Microbiologic results and methodologic and critical proposal]. AB - As a consequence of carrying out the Cleaning Analysis for recoverable containers with a capacity of over 2 litres used in water bottling plants, executed in accordance with instructions from the Ministry of Health and Consumer Affairs, an analysis is made on its suitability and a system for evaluation is proposed, based on statistically verifiable hypotheses, thus taking advantage of the information generated by the Cleaning Analysis. The conclusions recommend the modification of these tests which affect a product whose consumption grows daily. PMID- 2519703 TI - [Pharmaceutical care within the framework of primary health care]. PMID- 2519704 TI - [Intestinal protozoan parasitism in children from the bay of Cadiz]. AB - The prevalence of intestinal parasitosis from protozoa in a pediatric population group attending different education centres in the Bay of Cadiz is investigated by means of directly examining the feces using microscopic techniques. The percentage of children affected by parasites is 6.3%, there being no differences with regard to sex or social level. Giardia lamblia is the most frequently found protozoa (2.7%). The level of infection from Cryptosporidium sp. (2.3%) is significant. The symptomatology of those affected was nonspecific and not intense, and therefore did not lead to any suspicion of pathology. PMID- 2519706 TI - [Comparative study of the quality of water from the supply system and after decalcification: health aspects]. AB - A study is carried out on drinking water after decalcification. What is notable is that only 51.8% of the decalcification systems studied operated under adequate conditions. The hardness levels found after the softening process are much lower than the limits set by the present Health-Technical Regulations, while sodium concentrations were five times greater than the network's water, exceeding in the majority of cases the limits set by the Council of European Communities Directive. Water obtained after an uncontrolled decalcification may be a risk factor in cardiovascular diseases. PMID- 2519705 TI - [Health examination in the school population: results of a program of physical sport promotion]. AB - A health study is carried out for 147 children, ranging from 5 to 14 years of age and who belong to a Physical-Sports Promotion Programme organised by the Town Hall of Guimar and Cabildo Insular of Tenerife. Around 50% of their size and weight was found to be over the 50 percentile of the Stuart and Tanner tables. The number of cavities per child was 1.85, with a 61.22% prevalence. The highest CAO value was among the 14 year olds and the highest co value among the 6 year olds. 5.4% had decreased visual acuity. The most frequent orthopedic alterations were scoliosis, 8.84% and flat feet, 22.29%. The Ruffier-Dickson test showed that 97.20% of the children had an above normal cardiac adaptability to exercise. PMID- 2519708 TI - Derivative fluorescence spectral analysis of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon-DNA adducts in human placenta. AB - Metabolic activation in humans of chemical carcinogens found in the environment results in the formation of carcinogen-DNA adducts in vivo. Some polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon-DNA adducts in human DNA can be hydrolyzed under mildly acidic conditions to yield tetrahydrotetrol derivatives which may then be detected by synchronous fluorescence spectroscopy. In an analysis of human placental DNA, second derivative spectroscopy alone was unable to resolve the synchronous fluorescent signature for r-7,t-8,t-9,c-10-tetrahydroxy-7,8,9,10 tetrahydrobenzo[alpha]pyrene from a crude extract, because a complex array of other fluorescent materials was also present. Purification of the sample by a combination of chromatographic procedures including immunoaffinity chromatography and HPLC has now been shown to yield r-7,t-8,t-9,c-10-tetrahydroxy-7,8,9,10 tetrahydrobenzo[alpha]pyrene residues from human DNA that are spectroscopically pure at the second derivative level. Immunoaffinity columns were prepared with rabbit antiserum raised against DNA that had been modified with (+/-)-r-7,t-8 dihydroxy-t-9,10-epoxy-7,8,9,10-tetrahydrobenzo[alpha]pyre ne. This antiserum has now been shown to recognize DNA samples that have been modified with six different polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon diol epoxides and is probably only specific for a broad spectrum of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon-DNA adducts. Adducts were eluted from the immunoaffinity columns, hydrolyzed with acid, and extracted into isoamyl alcohol, before being subjected to high-performance liquid chromatography. These experiments reveal important limitations of second derivative fluorescence spectroscopy as a tool in the analysis of complex environmental mixtures. Furthermore, they extensively define the ability of anti benzo[alpha]pyrenediol epoxide-DNA antibodies to recognize different types of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon-DNA adducts. PMID- 2519707 TI - Suicide inactivation of lactoperoxidase by 3-amino-1,2,4-triazole. AB - Amitrole (3-amino-1,2,4-triazole) meets the criteria for a suicide (mechanism based) inhibitor of lactoperoxidase. Amitrole causes rapid inactivation of lactoperoxidase only in the presence of hydrogen peroxide, and the kinetics are consistent with a suicide mechanism. Approximately 7 mol of radiolabeled amitrole binds covalently per equivalent of lactoperoxidase activity lost. The visible spectrum of lactoperoxidase inactivated by amitrole is unchanged, suggesting that covalent modification of the heme prosthetic group does not occur. The 13C NMR spectrum of lactoperoxidase inactivated by [13C]amitrole shows unique resonances which support the hypothesis that covalent binding occurs on the protein moiety. The similarities between lactoperoxidase and thyroid peroxidase suggest a similar mechanism for inhibition of thyroid hormone synthesis by amitrole. PMID- 2519709 TI - Canrenone formation via general-base-catalyzed elimination of 7 alpha (methylthio)spironolactone S-oxide. AB - The preparation of the two diastereomeric S-oxides of 7 alpha (methylthio)spironolactone, the major metabolite of spironolactone in humans, is described. When placed in aqueous solution, these diastereomers undergo elimination reactions to give canrenone. The rate of canrenone formation from 7 alpha-(methylthio)spironolactone S-oxide was carefully investigated spectrophotometrically. In weakly acidic media, canrenone formation was found to proceed at significant rates, and the reaction was catalyzed by basic buffer species. At strongly acidic or basic pH only, specific-acid or specific-base catalysis of sulfoxide elimination, respectively, was observed. The observation that formation of canrenone could occur from nonenzymatic elimination of 7 alpha (methylthio)spironolactone S-oxide may have toxicological significance since it has been determined that canrenone can be metabolized to mutagenic epoxides in vitro. Our studies demonstrate a novel chemical pathway leading from a major metabolite of spironolactone, 7 alpha-(methylthio)spironolactone S-oxide, to canrenone. PMID- 2519710 TI - Comparison of rates of enzymatic oxidation of aflatoxin B1, aflatoxin G1, and sterigmatocystin and activities of the epoxides in forming guanyl-N7 adducts and inducing different genetic responses. AB - The genotoxicity of the dihydrofurans aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), aflatoxin G1 (AFG1), and sterigmatocystin (STG) was examined in a bacterial system in which the induction of SOS repair is monitored with the umuC gene linked to a lacZ reporter gene in plasmid pSK1002. Human liver microsomal cytochrome P-450NF oxidized the dihydrofurans (in the presence of calf thymus DNA) to give guanyl-N7 adducts in the order AFB1 greater than STG greater than AFG1. The order of the umu response seen was STG greater than AFB1 greater than AFG1, when either the dihydrofurans were activated enzymatically or the synthetic epoxides of the dihydrofurans were added directly to the bacteria. Thus, the umu response per molecule of guanyl-N7 DNA adduct follows the order STG greater than AFB1 greater than AFG1. A similar pattern has been reported in the literature for Salmonella typhimurium base substitution dependent his reversions, but the pattern AFB1 greater than STG greater than AFG1 has been found for bacterial frame-shift-dependent mutagenesis and hepatocarcinogenesis. The guanyl-N7 adduct derived from AFG1 has considerably less of all of these biological activities per molecule. Neither guanine imidazole ring opening nor apurinic site formation appears to be a factor involved in the differential biological responses seen with the three guanyl-N7 adducts. These findings indicate that these structurally related guanyl-N7 DNA adducts have intrinsic differences which give rise to divergent biological responses. PMID- 2519711 TI - Chemical models for the lethality curves of toxic metal ions. AB - Several equilibrium models are presented for the calculation of the lethality curves due to toxic metal ions. In the first, a generalized Langmuir model is used to examine the occupancy of linear arrays of 1, 2, ..., 6 interacting adsorption sites on a macromolecular species. This model permits one to take into account cooperative or anticooperative interaction of occupied adjacent sites. In the second model, a variety of nonlinear distributions of interacting sites (in triangular, square, tetrahedral, and octahedral array) are analyzed, and the corresponding adsorption isotherms are calculated. The third model treated, the Ising model, represents a linear infinite array of sites with nearest-neighbor interactions. The fourth and fifth models examined are the Bragg-Williams model and the quasi-chemical model, both of which permit approximate treatment of infinite arrays of adsorption sites having arbitrary numbers of interacting nearest neighbors. These models are then combined with the assumption that the differential distribution of mortality is a known function of the fraction of sites occupied by the toxic metal ion to generate lethality curves. Results are computed for the special case in which the differential mortality distribution is Gaussian, and it is shown that all of the models are capable of generating lethality curves of the sort found experimentally when plots are made of percentage lethality versus log dosage. The models can also be used for situations in which toxic effects other than lethality arise from the interaction of a toxic molecule or ion with more than one site on a linear macromolecule or for reactions involving certain other arrays of specified configuration. PMID- 2519712 TI - Photochemistry of the psoralens. PMID- 2519713 TI - Differential effects of organic hydroperoxides and hydrogen peroxide on proteolysis in human erythrocytes. AB - The effects of tert-butyl hydroperoxide, cumene hydroperoxide, and hydrogen peroxide on proteolysis in human red blood cells have been examined. The organic hydroperoxides effectively stimulated the rate of protein degradation in red cells and in hemolysate; in contrast, H2O2 addition was without significant effect in either system. tert-Butyl hydroperoxide or cumene hydroperoxide (8 mM) increased the rate of protein degradation in red cells 2.3- and 4-fold, respectively, relative to control as monitored by tyrosine release. In hemolysate, tert-butyl hydroperoxide and cumene hydroperoxide, present at 8 mM, produced a 2- and 3-fold increase in the rate of protein degradation, respectively, as compared to controls. Hydroperoxide-stimulated proteolysis in red cells or in hemolysate was concentration-dependent and reached saturation at 8 mM hydroperoxide. The reaction was linear for 2 h after which a plateau was reached. In contrast to the results observed for the organic hydroperoxides, H2O2 (100 or 200 mM) addition either alone or in the presence of the catalase inhibitor 3-amino-1,2,4-triazole (50-200 mM), failed to stimulate proteolysis. N Acetylcysteine (20 mM) and dimethylthiourea (50 mM) inhibited the rate of hydroperoxide-stimulated proteolysis in red cells by approximately 50 and approximately 35%, respectively, and in hemolysate by 25 and 40%, respectively. The hydroxyl radical scavengers methyl sulfoxide (50 mM) or dimethylfuran (50 mM), metal ion chelators, or spin traps failed to decrease significantly the rate of organic hydroperoxide stimulated proteolysis. In addition, inhibitors of the calpain/procalpain system in red cell or hemolysate incubations challenged by organic hydroperoxide were without significant effect on the rate of proteolysis.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2519714 TI - Stereoselective formations of enantiomeric K-region epoxide and trans dihydrodiols in dibenz[a,h]anthracene metabolism. AB - Metabolism of dibenz[a,h]anthracene (DBA) to optically active epoxide and dihydrodiol products by rat liver microsomes was investigated. Enantiomeric separation of K-region 5,6-epoxide, trans- and cis-5,6-dihydrodiols, non-K-region trans-1,2- and trans-3, 4-dihydrodiols, and O-methyl ethers derived from methoxylation of racemic and enantiomeric K-region 5,6-epoxides was performed on HPLC columns packed with Pirkle chiral stationary-phase (CSP) (R)-N-(3,5 dinitrobenzoyl)phenylglycine (R-DNBPG) or (S)-N-(3,5-dinitrobenzoyl) leucine (S DNBL), which was either ionically or covalently bonded to a silica gel support. Enantiomers of DBA 5,6-epoxide, trans-5,6-dihydrodiol, and its two isomeric O methyl ethers were efficiently separated on the ionically bonded R-DNBPG column. Enantiomers of DBA cis-5, 6-dihydrodiol were resolved on both ionically and covalently bonded S-DNBL columns. Enantiomeric pairs of the non-K-region trans 1,2- and 3,4-dihydrodiols were poorly resolved on all CSPs tested. DBA was incubated with a NADPH-regenerating system and liver microsomes from untreated, phenobarbital- (PB) treated, 3-methylcholanthrene- (MC) treated, and polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB, Aroclor 1254) treated rats either in the absence or in the presence of an epoxide hydrolase inhibitor, 3,3,3-trichloropropylene 1,2-oxide (TCPO). Metabolites formed were analyzed by reversed-phase, normal phase, and CSP HPLC. CD spectral and CSP-HPLC analyses of metabolically formed trans-dihydrodiols indicated that the dihydrodiols are highly enriched in the R,R enantiomers.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2519715 TI - Analysis of methylated and oxidized purines in urine by capillary gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. AB - Methylated purine bases from urine can be quantitated by capillary gas chromatography-mass spectrometry with selected ion monitoring. The method is based on a separation of the purines in urine using XAD-2 column chromatography and bonded-phase extraction methods. The extracted samples are derivatized with N (tert-butyldimethylsilyl)-N-methyltrifluoroacetamide and analyzed by capillary gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The tert-butyldimethylsilyl derivatives of the purines showed excellent GC and GC/MS properties suitable for low-level detection in extracts of human urine as well as in urine extracts from animals treated with the methylating carcinogen N-nitrosodimethylamine. The oxidized purine bases 7-methyl-8-hydroxyguanine, 8-hydroxyadenine, and 8-hydroxyguanine were also detected in urine. To our knowledge, the latter two modified bases have not been previously reported in normal urine. PMID- 2519716 TI - Covalent bonding of the prosthetic heme to protein: a potential mechanism for the suicide inactivation or activation of hemoproteins. AB - In this perspective we have described a newly characterized pathway for the metabolism of the prosthetic heme of cytochrome P-450, which results in the formation of protein-bound adducts. This reaction occurs when the cytochrome P 450 metabolizes a variety of xenobiotics as well as endogenous compounds such as hydrogen peroxide and lipid hydroperoxides. It also takes place during the reactions catalyzed by other hemoproteins, such as myoglobin and hemoglobin. In the case of the reaction of ferrous myoglobin with BrCCl3, under single-turnover conditions, an intact heme moiety becomes covalently bound to an active-site amino acid. This covalently altered protein has significantly enhanced reductive activity compared to that of native myoglobin, as demonstrated by its rapid reduction of molecular oxygen and CCl4. It also is more rapidly proteolyzed than myoglobin. These findings may have relevance to the P-450 cytochromes in which suicide inactivation, destruction of the heme prosthetic group, and loss of the protein is observed. The activation of hemoproteins to heme-protein adducts may also have toxicological significance, perhaps in oxygen reperfusion injury in the myocardium as well as other tissues by enhancing the production of oxygen-derived radicals from molecular oxygen and lipid hydroperoxides. Clearly, further research in the characterization of heme-protein adducts is necessary before their importance in protein turnover and oxygen-induced injury can be determined. PMID- 2519717 TI - Observation of a substituent effect on the stereoselectivity of glutathione S transferase toward para-substituted 4-phenyl-3-buten-2-ones. PMID- 2519718 TI - Covalent interaction of 5-nitroimidazoles with DNA and protein in vitro: mechanism of reductive activation. AB - Human hepatic microsomal enzymes catalyzed the NADPH-dependent anaerobic reductive activation of [1-14C]metronidazole [1-(2-hydroxyethyl)-2-methyl-5 nitroimidazole] and [4,5-14C]ronidazole [(1-methyl-5-nitroimidazole-2-yl)methyl carbamate] to species that became covalently bound to proteins. Due to the low efficiency of the enzyme-catalyzed covalent binding of metronidazole, the stoichiometry of anaerobic reductive activation was studied with dithionite as the reductant. Two moles of dithionite was consumed per mole of [1 14C]metronidazole for maximal covalent binding to either DNA or immobilized sulfhydryl groups, demonstrating that four electrons are required for the reductive activation of metronidazole. These data implicate the involvement of a hydroxylamine in covalent binding. Maximal covalent binding of [4,5 14C]ronidazole to DNA also required four-electron reduction, consistent with previous studies of the covalent binding of this agent to immobilized sulfhydryl groups [Kedderis et al. (1988) Arch. Biochem. Biophys. 262, 40-48]. Studies of the covalent binding of variously radiolabeled ronidazole molecules to DNA suggested that the imidazole ring was intact while greater than 80% of the 2 carbamoyl group and the C4 proton were not present in the DNA adduct. Studies of both the chemical and human hepatic microsomal reduction of [4-3H]metronidazole demonstrated that covalent binding occurred with the stoichiometric loss of this label, implicating binding at the C4 position. These results suggest that the reductive activation of 5-nitroimidazoles generally proceeds via four-electron reduction to form hydroxylamines followed by nucleophilic attack at C4. PMID- 2519720 TI - Decomposition and quality control considerations in biological work with fecapentaene preparations. AB - Solutions of synthetic fecapentaene 12 (FP-12) intended for carcinogenicity studies were found to decompose extremely rapidly during customary dosage procedures. Apparent half-lives as short as 15 min were observed. While rates and even the qualitative course of decomposition were surprisingly variable in replicate experiments, high concentration and exposure to air were confirmed to be especially important destabilizing influences. The results suggested a primary role for a radical decomposition mechanism in the presence of atmospheric oxygen. Consistent with this hypothesis, FP-12 solutions were significantly stabilized by the radical chain-breaking antioxidant vitamin E. On the other hand, dithiothreitol greatly destabilized FP-12, presumably because of its nucleophilicity. The diacetyl diester of FP-12 was more soluble than the parent diol, but its decomposition rates in the presence and absence of vitamin E were similar to those of unesterified FP-12. Ultraviolet irradiation of an all-trans FP-12 solution decreased its concentration by 70% in 0.5 min. The mutagenicities of the decomposition/isomerization products of FP-12, as studied in Salmonella typhimurium tester strain TA 100, ranged from negligible to comparable with all trans-FP-12 itself. It is concluded that unchecked decomposition of fecapentaene preparations can profoundly affect biological tests therewith. While this can be largely controlled through the use of rigorous precautions, including protection from air, light, nucleophiles, and acids as well as selection of the lowest concentration compatible with the application at hand, the data argue strongly for inclusion of appropriate quality control measures in all future dosing operations to prove that the biological activity reported is that of the fecapentaene itself rather than that of a decomposed dosing solution. PMID- 2519719 TI - In vitro activation of 2-aminobenzyl alcohol and 2-amino-6-nitrobenzyl alcohol, metabolites of 2-nitrotoluene and 2,6-dinitrotoluene. AB - Previous results have suggested that key intermediates in the activation of 2 nitrotoluene and 2,6-dinitrotoluene are 2-aminobenzyl alcohol and 2-amino-6 nitrobenzyl alcohol, respectively. In order to determine the metabolic pathway(s) involved in the activation steps, calf thymus DNA and [14C]-2-aminobenzyl alcohol or [14C]-2-amino-6-nitrobenzyl alcohol were incubated with male Fischer-344 rat hepatic cytosol and PAPS, microsomes and NADPH, or microsomes and cytosol with PAPS, NADPH, and acetyl coenzyme A. DNA was isolated and analyzed for radiolabel bound covalently. Analysis of the incubations containing [14C]-2-aminobenzyl alcohol revealed radiolabel bound covalently to DNA, as well as one major metabolite labile in both sulfatase and acid. The appearance of each required the presence of PAPS and cytosol and was inhibited by the sulfotransferase inhibitor 2,6-dichloro-4-nitrophenol. Neither NADPH nor acetyl coenzyme A played a role in the generation of detectable 14C bound to nucleic acids. 2-Amino-6-nitrobenzyl alcohol was converted to metabolites capable of binding to calf thymus DNA when incubated with cytosol and PAPS or with microsomes and NADPH. However, when cytosol and microsomes were incubated together, activation of 2-amino-6 nitrobenzyl alcohol appeared to require only PAPS, suggesting a minor role for NADPH-dependent enzymes in its activation. The results suggest that the metabolite of 2-nitrotoluene responsible for binding covalently to DNA is 2 aminobenzyl sulfate. There may be more than one pathway involved in the formation of metabolite(s) of 2,6-dinitrotoluene that bind covalently to DNA. PMID- 2519721 TI - Analysis for N2-(pyridyloxobutyl)deoxyguanosine adducts in DNA of tissues exposed to tritium-labeled 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone and N' nitrosonornicotine. AB - The tobacco-specific carcinogens 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK) and N'-nitrosonornicotine (NNN) are metabolically activated to DNA binding intermediates, partially via 4-(3-pyridyl)-4-oxobutanediazohydroxide (7) or related carbonium ions. Previous studies have shown that generation of 7 from 4 (carbethoxynitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (11) in the presence of deoxyguanosine yields a major adduct identified as 2'-deoxy-N-[1-methyl-3-oxo-3 (3-pyridyl)propyl]guanosine (adduct 1). These results suggested that adduct 1 should be present in DNA of tissues that can metabolically activate NNK and NNN. In the present study, we evaluate the formation of adduct 1 and its structurally related straight-chain analogue 2'-deoxy-N-[4-oxo-4-(3-pyridyl)butyl]guanosine (adduct 2) in DNA of tissues of rats treated with [5-3H]NNK or [5-3H]NNN, and in DNA of nasal mucosa that had been cultured in medium containing [5-3H]NNK or [5 3H]NNN. Hepatic DNA from rats treated with [5-3H]NNK was enzymatically hydrolyzed to deoxyribonucleosides and analyzed by HPLC. One of the radioactive peaks, peak E, coeluted with adduct 1. However, treatment of peak E with NaBH4 resulted in the formation of products different from those produced by NaBH4 treatment of adduct 1, demonstrating that adduct 1 could not be detected under these conditions. Hydrolysis of peak E with acid produced 4-hydroxy-1-(3-pyridyl)-1 butanone (9), suggesting that peak E might be adduct 2. Therefore, adduct 2 was synthesized by reaction of deoxyguanosine with 1-(3-pyridyl)butane-1,4-dione (5) in the presence of NaCNBH3.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2519722 TI - Structure and dynamics of a lipoic acid-arsenical adduct. AB - The lipoic acid-phenyldichloroarsine adduct was prepared in methanol, and the structure and molecular motions of this adduct were studied. The results showed that a six-membered heteroatom adduct was formed. One-dimensional and two dimensional NMR spectroscopy was used to confirm the structure and assign some of the resonances in the proton and carbon spectra. Spin-lattice relaxation times of the various carbon atoms indicated that the overall molecular reorientation time (tau R) of the molecule is 0.02 ns at 30 degrees C. An Arrhenius plot of the data showed that the activation energy (Ea) for molecular tumbling is 13.4 kJ/mol. PMID- 2519723 TI - Nitration of indeno[1,2,3-cd]pyrene and mutagenic activities of related compounds. PMID- 2519724 TI - Role of cytochrome P-450 IIE1 and catalase in the oxidation of acetonitrile to cyanide. AB - Acetonitrile is a common industrial solvent and laboratory agent, which can be toxic if ingested. The toxicity of nitriles appears to be due to the production of cyanide, and detailed studies by Freeman and Hayes [(1988) Biochem. Pharmacol. 37, 1153-1159; (1987) Fundam. Appl. Toxicol. 8, 263-271] have shown that microsomes oxidize acetonitrile to cyanide. Treatment of rats with inducers of cytochrome P-450 IIE1 such as pyrazole, 4-methylpyrazole, and ethanol resulted in a 4- to 5-fold increase in cyanide production from acetonitrile by isolated microsomes. Phenobarbital treatment had a small stimulatory effect, whereas 3 methylcholanthrene treatment decreased microsomal oxidation of acetonitrile. Pyrazole treatment increased Vmax per milligram of microsomal protein and per nanomole of P-450 but did not affect the apparent km for acetonitrile, whereas the 4-methylpyrazole treatment increased Vmax and the apparent affinity for acetonitrile. Cyanide production was inhibited by carbon monoxide as well as by substrates and compounds that interact with the P-450 IIE1 isozyme such as ethanol, 2-butanol, DMSO, and 4-methylpyrazole. Oxidation of acetonitrile to cyanide by microsomes from rats treated with pyrazole or 4-methylpyrazole was nearly completely inhibited by anti-P-450 3a IgG. These results implicate a role for P-450 in the oxidation of acetonitrile to cyanide and suggest that P-450 IIE1 may be an especially effective catalyst for this oxidation. Acetonitrile oxidation was not affected by hydroxyl radical scavengers or by desferrioxamine, indicating no role for hydroxyl radicals in the overall mechanism.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2519725 TI - 2-ethynylnaphthalene as a mechanism-based inactivator of the cytochrome P-450 catalyzed N-oxidation of 2-naphthylamine. AB - Since the N-oxidation of several carcinogenic arylamines has been shown to be catalyzed preferentially by cytochrome P-450IA2 in several species, homologous ethynyl-substituted aromatic hydrocarbons, 2-ethynylnaphthalene, 1 ethynylnaphthalene, and 2-ethynylfluorene, were synthesized and examined as potential mechanism-based inactivators of this monooxygenase. By use of 2 naphthylamine, whose N-oxidation was known to be selectively catalyzed by rat cytochrome P-450ISF-G (P-450IA2), and hepatic microsomes from isosafrole-treated rats, each of these ethynyl derivatives was found to be strongly inhibitory at concentrations of 1 and 10 microM. However, only inhibition by 2 ethynylnaphthalene was significantly enhanced by prior incubation with the microsomal system. The inactivation of 2-naphthylamine N-oxidation was found to be NADPH- and time-dependent and to follow pseudo-first-order kinetics, demonstrating that 2-ethynylnaphthalene is a potent mechanism-based inactivator of the enzymatic activity. The extrapolated kinactivation and KI were 0.23 min-1 and 8 microM, respectively. By use of 2-aminofluorene, whose N-oxidation was known to be catalyzed by both cytochromes P-450ISF-G and P-450 beta NF-B (P 450IA1), and the purified enzymes in a reconstituted system, both 2 ethynylnaphthalene and 1-ethynylnaphthalene were found to be strongly inhibitory. However, 2-ethynylnaphthalene was a more potent inhibitor of the purified P 450ISF-G than of P-450 beta NF-B; and it was also found to be a more potent inhibitor of P-450ISF-G than was 1-ethynylnaphthalene.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2519726 TI - MNDO calculations of highly mutagenic (chloromethyl)benzo[a]pyrenes. AB - (Chloromethyl)benzo[a]pyrenes (ClMeB[a]P) are among the most potent direct-acting mutagens (i.e., not requiring metabolic activation) detected by the Ames assay using strain TA98 and TA100. We wanted to determine if molecular quantum mechanics would yield insights into the reactivity and mutagenicity of these compounds. Calculations using the MNDO semiempirical method (MOPAC program) were carried out on a series of ClMeB[a]P. The experimental rates of solvolysis of ClMeB[a]P in 50% aqueous acetone correlated well (r = -0.95) with the differences between the calculated heats of formation of ClMeB[a]P and those of their respective carbocations, supporting the hypothesis that ClMeB[a]P react via carbocations. None of the calculated parameters correlated with mutagenicity. Thus, the prediction of mutagenicity of ClMeB[a]P in the Ames assay is more complex than the simple formation of carbocation intermediates. PMID- 2519727 TI - Charge-shift strategy for isolation of hemoglobin-carcinogen adducts formed at the beta 93 cysteine sulfhydryl groups. AB - Qualitative and quantitative analysis of human hemoglobin-carcinogen adducts has potential as a diagnostic tool for estimation of biologically effective levels of carcinogen exposure and for attaining a better understanding of individual susceptibility to chemical carcinogenesis. The purpose of this study was to devise a strategy for preanalytical enrichment of the class of covalent human hemoglobin-carcinogen adducts formed by reaction at the hemoglobin beta 93 cysteine sulfhydryl groups. The results define a charge-shift strategy in which a mixture composed of natural hemoglobin (Hb-SH) and low levels of hemoglobin-S xenobiotic adducts (Hb-SX) is treated with an anionic sulfhydryl reagent (R-), followed by anion-exchange liquid chromatographic separation of Hb-SR- from the unreactive Hb-SX adducts. Using 4-(iodoacetamido)-salicylic acid as the charge shift reagent, we applied the strategy to the isolation of chromatographically similar adducts with either 4-nitrosobiphenyl or [3H]-N-ethylmaleimide. The strategy was effective for adduct concentrations less than or equal to 10 mumol/mol of hemoglobin. Application of the strategy provides an adduct-enriched fraction useful for subsequent analysis using either currently available techniques or alternate chemical or biochemical techniques that may be designed to take advantage of the enrichment procedure. PMID- 2519729 TI - S-oxygenation of eptam in hepatic microsomes from fresh- and saltwater striped bass (Morone saxatilis). AB - The in vitro liver microsomal oxidation of eptam (ethyl N,N dipropylthiocarbamate) in the presence of freshwater and salt water adapted striped bass liver microsomes was investigated. In freshwater hepatic microsomes from striped bass, eptam is S-oxygenated in a process consistent with the involvement of monooxygenase activity. In contrast, both eptam S-oxide and eptam sulfone are formed in microsomes from salt water adapted striped bass microsomes in a process that is independent of monooxygenase activity and consistent with a role of cooxidation by hydroperoxy fatty acids. The mechanism of oxidation of eptam by hydroperoxy fatty acids may involve radical species. Both eptam S-oxide and eptam sulfone are efficient carbamylating agents toward thiol nucleophiles and react with substituted thiophenols to produce thiocarbamates while eptam itself is relatively stable to trans thiocarbamylation. Monooxygenase-catalyzed S oxygenation of eptam in freshwater striped bass hepatic microsomes may represent a bioactivation route, which may explain the toxicity of thiocarbamate herbicides such as eptam toward freshwater fish. PMID- 2519728 TI - Preparation, analysis, and anticholinesterase properties of O,O-dimethyl phosphorothioate isomerides. AB - Previous studies have shown that impurities in commercial organophosphorus insecticides induce a variety of toxicological manifestations. Few studies have contrasted common impurity types and their comparative chemical and biochemical properties. In this study, five O,O-dimethyl phosphorothioate compounds were converted to their corresponding O,S-dimethyl phosphorothioates (isomerides) by a stepwise dealkylation-alkylation process (yields 58-76%). The O,S-isomerides and parent material were characterized by reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RPHPLC) and phosphorus (31P) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Methanol-water mixtures were found to adequately separate isomeride from parent structure with the isomeride eluting first. In general, the O,S isomerides were found to be shifted about 40 ppm upfield relative to the O,O material. Isomerides were also determined to be significantly more potent as anticholinesterases (rat brain), with ki values approximating 1000-fold those of the parent material. PMID- 2519730 TI - Inactivation of rat hepatic cytochrome P-450 isozymes by 3,5-dicarbethoxy- 2,6 dimethyl-4-ethyl-1,4-dihydropyridine. AB - We have reported [Correia et al. (1987) Arch. Biochem. Biophys. 258, 436-443] that administration of 3,5-dicarbethoxy-4-ethyl-2,6-dimethyl-1,4-dihydropyridine (DDEP) to untreated, phenobarbital (PB) pretreated, or dexamethasone (DEX) pretreated rats results in relatively selective inactivation of cytochrome P-450 (P-450) isozymes h (CYP2C11), k (CYP2C6), and p (CYP3A). Such inactivation involves destruction of P-450 prosthetic heme predominantly by N-ethylation in untreated and PB-pretreated rats, whereas in DEX-pretreated rats, it also appears to be associated with prosthetic heme alkylation of the apocytochrome presumably at the active site. The cause for this differential course of DDEP-mediated P-450 heme destruction is unclear. Since this process is absolutely dependent on NADPH mediated DDEP metabolism and can be reproduced in vitro, in search of mechanistic clues, we have examined DDEP metabolism by liver microsomes from the three rat sources as well as by isolated purified rat liver P-450h and P-450k. HPLC analyses of microsomal incubations of DDEP with NADPH, in the presence of an esterase inhibitor, revealed the presence of two major products: deethylated pyridine (DP) and 4-ethylpyridine (4-EDP) with product ratios (DP/4-EDP) of 1.4, 1.4, and 0.7 for reactions catalyzed by liver microsomes from untreated, PB pretreated, and DEX-pretreated rats, respectively. The corresponding mean product ratios for P-450h- and P-450k-catalyzed reactions were 4.2 and 5.5, respectively. On the other hand, partition ratios (DP formed/P-450 destroyed) ranged from 12.0, 10.5, and 4.8, respectively, for incubations of liver microsomes from untreated, PB-pretreated, and DEX-pretreated rats to 9.5 and 28.9 for purified P-450h- and P 450k-catalyzed reactions, respectively. However, DP formation in all these microsomal systems was comparable, and although 4-EDP formation was greatly stimulated by DEX pretreatment, it does not appear to be a destructive pathway. In view of this, our findings reported herein suggest that the active site environment of P-450's h, k, and p apparently determines not only the pattern of DDEP metabolism but also the differential course of prosthetic heme destruction. PMID- 2519731 TI - Structural and conformational analyses of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine. AB - Oxidative DNA damage has been shown to involve formation of 8-hydroxy-2' deoxyguanosine, which may serve as a mispairing lesion during cellular DNA replication. In order to assess the mutagenic potential of this DNA adduct, we examined the possible occurrence of several tautomeric forms and of different base conformations about the deoxyribose. Several spectroscopic and electronic absorption techniques were employed and showed structural changes occurring over a broad pH range. Two pKa's near pH 8 and 12 were observed by pH-solvent partitioning experiments, ultraviolet absorption spectral analyses, and 13C NMR spectroscopic methods. The presence of two pKa's suggested the formation of a dianion, with the second being formed in strong alkali. A comparison of ultraviolet absorption band features of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine with that of different C6,C8-diketo or enol derivatives supported a C8-keto assignment and also provided evidence that this DNA adduct contains a C6-keto group at physiological pH. 13C NMR data showed marked chemical shifts at C6 in solutions of pH 7.4-9.3, indicating the location of the first ionization. Increasing basicity produced further shifts at C5 and C8, indicating the C8 position for the second ionization. Multiple infrared bands were observed in the carbonyl region of the neutral compound, but only a single carbonyl band at 1692 cm-1 remained at pH 9.1, implying a keto group at C8. Determination of the chemical shifts and the nuclear Overhauser enhancements of the N1 and N7 resonances in the proton decoupled 15N NMR spectrum indicated that both nitrogens were indeed protonated at neutral pH.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2519732 TI - Formation of acyclic and cyclic guanine adducts in DNA reacted with alpha-acetoxy N-nitrosopyrrolidine. AB - This paper describes the reaction of alpha-acetoxy-N-nitrosopyrrolidine with DNA to produce six adducts: two new acyclic adducts, 7-(4-oxobutyl)guanine (6) and 7 (3-carboxypropyl)guanine (7), and four cyclic adducts--the exocyclic 7,8-guanine adducts 5, 11, and 12 and an exocyclic 1,N2-guanine adduct 13--which we have previously characterized. The initial purpose of this study was to carry out an independent synthesis to verify the structure of adduct 5, which is formed in liver DNA of rats treated with N-nitrosopyrrolidine. This was accomplished by the reaction of 2',3',5'-triacetylguanosine with 4-iodobutyraldehyde. This reaction also produced 7-(4-oxobutyl)guanine (6), which underwent air oxidation to 7. The new adducts were characterized by their proton NMR, UV, and mass spectral properties, by chemical transformations, and by independent syntheses. The six adduct standards were used to develop HPLC systems for their analysis as products of the reaction of alpha-acetoxy-N-nitrosopyrrolidine with DNA. Studies on their rates of formation and stability in DNA were carried out. The major products were 7-(4-oxobutyl)guanine (6) and the exocyclic 7,8-guanine adduct 5, which apparently were both formed mainly by reaction with DNA of 4 oxobutanediazohydroxide (4). Their concentrations were maximal after 6 h and subsequently decreased due to depurination. Little evidence was obtained for cyclization of 6 to 5, at the base level or in DNA. The concentrations of adducts 11-13, which were formed by reaction with DNA of crotonaldehyde (10), increased gradually over the 36-h time period studied.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2519733 TI - Enzymatic defluorination and metabolism of fluoroacetate, fluoroacetamide, fluoroethanol, and (-)-erythro-fluorocitrate in rats and mice examined by 19F and 13C NMR. AB - Fluoroacetate administered intraperitoneally (ip) to rats and mice is defluorinated to give fluoride ion evident in urine and kidney by 19F NMR. The use of [2-13C]-, [1,2-13C]-, and [1,2-14C]fluoroacetate, prepared from isotopically labeled glycine, combined with 13C NMR and TLC radioautography, respectively, reveals a complex mixture of urinary metabolites including an S (carboxymethyl) conjugate complex in rats and mice and sulfoxidation products thereof in rats. Direct 13C NMR examination of the bile following treatment with [2-13C]fluoroacetate shows the presence of S-(carboxymethyl)glutathione or a related conjugate and an O-conjugate of fluoroacetate. Incubation of [13C]fluoroacetate with rat and mouse liver cytosol involves formation of S-[( 13C]carboxymethyl)glutathione and fluoride ion. Fluorocitrate is also detected by 19F NMR examination of fluoroacetate incubations with mouse liver cytosol. Fluoroacetamide administered ip to rats and mice yields urinary fluoride ion formed via fluoroacetate which is liberated on hydrolysis by an organophosphate sensitive amidase. 19F NMR chemical shifts of other metabolites of fluoroacetamide are consistent with fluoroacetohydroxamic acid in the liver of mice and fluorocitrate in the urine of rats. Fluoroethanol gives urinary fluoroacetate and fluoride ion in rats and mice and is converted to fluoroacetaldehyde by mouse and rat liver microsomes. (-)- and (+)-erythro fluorocitrates administered ip to rats yield mostly the parent compounds in urine at 6 h with increasing amounts of fluoride ion thereafter. 19F NMR establishes that rat and mouse liver cytosols defluorinate (-)- but not (+)-erythro fluorocitrate and pig heart aconitase also defluorinates (-)-erythro fluorocitrate.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2519734 TI - Metabolism of N-nitrosodimethyl- and N-nitrosodiethylamine by rat hepatocytes: effects of pretreatment with ethanol. AB - Hepatocytes were isolated from the livers of ethanol-pretreated rats, and the relationship between the generation of CO2 and the loss of N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) and N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA) from the incubation mixtures was examined. The evolution of CO2 by hepatocytes isolated from untreated, control rats was compared with the evolution of CO2 by hepatocytes isolated from rats treated with 10% EtOH in their drinking water. The CO2 generated from either NDMA or NDEA represented only a fraction of the parent compound that was metabolized during the incubation period. Therefore, the measurement of CO2 evolution as an indication of the metabolism of these simple dialkylnitrosamines is inadequate, and the actual loss of the parent compound must be measured directly when utilizing isolated hepatocytes as a model system to study the metabolism of nitrosamines. The liver microsomal metabolism of NDMA and NDEA was also examined. Pretreatment of the rats with ethanol resulted in a marked increase in the microsomal metabolism of NDMA but had a relatively small effect on NDEA metabolism. Phenobarbital pretreatment did not result in any increase in NDMA metabolism whereas there was a very significant (6-fold) increase in NDEA metabolism. These results suggest that different isozymes of cytochrome P-450 may be primarily responsible for the metabolism of the two nitrosamines. The inhibition patterns observed when an antibody inhibitory to cytochrome P-450j was added to microsomes derived from control and ethanol- and phenobarbital pretreated rats conclusively demonstrate that NDMA and NDEA are preferentially metabolized by distinct isozymes of cytochrome P-450. PMID- 2519735 TI - Labeling of albumin secreted from isolated rat hepatocytes during the metabolism of N-nitrosodimethyl- and N-nitrosodiethylamine. AB - The metabolic activation of N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) and N nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA) to reactive intermediates which covalently bind to cellular proteins was investigated. Isolated hepatocytes were used to determine whether protein alkylation is random in nature or whether it results in the alkylation of specific proteins. Isolated hepatocytes from rats treated with either ethanol (EtOH) or phenobarbital were incubated with the 14C-labeled nitrosamines for 1-3 h, after which the cells were separated from the incubation medium in order to distinguish secreted proteins from intracellular proteins. SDS PAGE of the proteins in the medium followed by fluorographic analysis of the gels revealed that a heavily labeled protein was secreted into the medium which represents the predominantly labeled protein. Intracellularly, the major portion of the covalently bound label was found in the region of the gel where the cytochromes P-450 migrate. Pretreatment of the hepatocytes with diethyl maleate and buthionine sulfoximine to decrease the intracellular levels of glutathione had no effect on the labeling, indicating that glutathione does not protect cellular proteins from labeling by these carcinogens. Pretreatment of the cells with D-(+)-galactosamine to inhibit UDP-glucuronyltransferases resulted in a significant decrease in protein labeling by NDEA, suggesting that a glucuronide intermediate may be involved in the activation of NDEA to an alkylating species. The heavily labeled protein secreted into the incubation medium was identified as albumin on the basis of its apparent molecular weight of 66K, as determined by SDS-PAGE, and its cross-reactivity with anti-rat albumin IgG. PMID- 2519737 TI - In vitro dipeptide, nucleoside, and glutathione alkylation by S-(2 chloroethyl)glutathione and S-(2-chloroethyl)-L-cysteine. AB - S-(2-Chloroethyl)glutathione (CEG) and S-(2-chloroethyl)-L-cysteine (CEC) are putative glutathione-dependent metabolites of 1,2-dichloroethane bioactivation and have been shown to be direct-acting alkylating agents. A group of dipeptides, nucleosides, and glutathione were used as model compounds to investigate CEG and CEC alkylation events. The extent of glutathione and cysteinyltyrosine alkylation was much greater than histidyltyrosine greater than lysyltyrosine, glycyltyrosine, glycyltryptophan, and 2'-deoxyguanosine greater than 2' deoxyadenosine, 2'-deoxycytidine, and thymidine for both CEG and CEC. The rate of S-alkylation of cysteinyltyrosine by CEG and CEC occurred at rates 54 and 72 times that for the N7 position of 2'-deoxyguanosine and 16 and 10 times that for histidyltyrosine imidazole nitrogen, respectively. The rate of S-alkylation of glutathione by CEG was found to be 27% faster than that for S-alkylation of cysteinyltyrosine whereas S-alkylation of glutathione by CEC was 22% slower than that for cysteinyltyrosine. Both CEG and CEC demonstrated a selectivity for cysteinyl thiol alkylation over a wide variety of other nucleophilic sites. These findings demonstrate a wide range of functional group reactivity that should be taken into consideration when assessing the alkylation of cellular macromolecules by such glutathione-derived metabolites of the 1,2-dihaloethanes in vivo. PMID- 2519736 TI - Identification of the reactive glutathione conjugate S-(2-chloroethyl)glutathione in the bile of 1-bromo-2-chloroethane-treated rats by high-pressure liquid chromatography and precolumn derivatization with o-phthalaldehyde. AB - The conjugation of glutathione with 1,2-dihaloethanes leads to the formation of S (2-haloethyl)glutathione which, following intramolecular cyclization, produces an electrophilic thiiranium ion. The extent to which the formation of the thiiranium ion is responsible for the toxicity associated with 1,2-dihaloethanes has been difficult to determine because of the inherent instability of the compound under physiological conditions. The goal of this study was to attempt to identify a putative precursor of the thiiranium ion, S-(2-chloroethyl)glutathione (CEG), in the bile of rats treated with 1,2-dihaloethanes such as 1-bromo-2-chloroethane (BCE). In order to detect the presence of CEG, a precolumn procedure for derivatizing the amine of CEG with o-phthalaldehyde/2-mercaptoethanol (OPA/MCE) was developed. Studies with a model compound, S-ethylglutathione, indicated that the derivatization reaction between S-ethylglutathione and OPA/MCE proceeded rapidly and under mild conditions. The resulting fluorescent adduct of S ethylglutathione was detected at low concentrations following separation by reverse-phase HPLC. Derivatization of CEG with OPA/MCE followed by preparative HPLC and mass spectral analysis revealed that the major fluorescent adduct in the reaction mixture was the expected 1-[(2-hydroxyethyl)thio]-2-substituted isoindole derivative of CEG. Also present in the derivatization reaction mixture were small quantities of S-(2-hydroxyethyl)glutathione, the product of CEG hydrolysis, and a product involving the addition of MCE to CEG. Analysis of the bile samples obtained from bile-cannulated rats treated with BCE showed the presence of a peak corresponding to CEG. Over a 3-h interval, 2% of the BCE administered was excreted into the bile as CEG. PMID- 2519738 TI - Performance of subgroups of left-handers and right-handers. AB - Fifty-three left-handers with consistent left-hand preferences (CLH), 65 left handers with inconsistent hand preferences (ILH), and 57 right-handers (RH) were given unimanual and bimanual performance tests involving skill, speed, and strength as well as tests of articulatory speed and verbal fluency. Contrary to claims in the current literature (Ponton, 1987), CLHs and ILHs do not differ in quality and speed of performance, but, in some tests, they do show asymmetries in opposite directions. Thus, when left-handers are treated as a combined group, the faulty impression of a lack of between-hand asymmetries arises. The results suggest that a distinction between CLHs and ILHs yields subgroups with reliably different and distinctive performance patterns which are not trivially attributable to differences in strength of lateralization. CLHs behave much like mirror image RHs, whereas ILHs show a dissociation between strength, fine manual skill, attentional asymmetries. PMID- 2519739 TI - Footedness in parrots: three centuries of research, theory, and mere surmise. AB - In contemporary debates about laterality in animals, the parrot (Psittaciformes) is often cited as an exemplar--possibly unique--of laterality in limb function at the population level comparable in kind and strength to handedness in man. This conclusion rests on just two reports (Friedman & Davis, 1938; Rogers, 1980) that most species of parrots are left-footed, that is, that they preferentially perch on the right foot and hold food with the left. In fact, speculation about and scientific study of laterality in parrots go well beyond these two investigations. The question itself dates from at least the 17th century, after which, beginning in the 1860s, it became the subject of broad interest and debate. In our own time, it also has continued to occupy the attention of at least a small number of ornithologists and field biologists whose work, like that of their predecessors, is not cited in the current neuropsychological literature on this topic. To fill out the historical as well as contemporary record for consideration by neuropsychologists today, these other observations and theoretical analyses are reviewed, and new questions about laterality in parrots raised by this work are presented. PMID- 2519740 TI - [Acute carbon monoxide poisoning]. AB - Carbon monoxide is one of the most common cause of poisoning both in industry and in homes. About 75-80% of cases of acute oxicarbonism occur in homes. The chief domestic source of poisoning was in the past the escape of illuminating gas, today the incomplete combustion of methane or GPL. On the basis of personal experience the authors illustrate the kinetics of absorption and the mechanism of action of CO, the clinical pattern of acute poisoning and the elements of prognostic value. A careful distinction must be done between acute oxicarbonism and acute intoxication from fire-smoke at the physiopathological, clinical and therapeutic level. PMID- 2519741 TI - [Contact dermatitis of the hands in housewives: preliminary data of a multicenter study]. AB - The preliminary results of a survey carried out by the Institutes of Dermatology of Bari and Florence Universities and by the Clinica del Lavoro of Milan University are analyzed. The survey, whose aim is to identify the causes of contact dermatitis on housewives' hands and whose conclusions are forecasted for June 1990, will examine 1,650 female people, 1,050 of which are ill and 600 are case-controls. The results of the first 617 cases (514 ill and 103 case-controls) are reported. The anamnesis has shown that the hands (in 488 cases) are the most affected part of the body, that the most frequent symptoms are itch and burning sensation (in 410 cases), and that cosmetics, followed by detergents and softeners, are considered by the patients among the products more responsible for these symptoms. The allergic tests, even if with a different percentage of incidence, have shown metals (above all nickel), rubber additives and resins as the main aptens. Another survey, also in progress, concerning the search of metals in detergents and in washing waters for pollution caused by abrasives, pots, Inox sinks, pipes and tabs of the water system, is reported. PMID- 2519742 TI - [Shift-work and housekeeping interference]. AB - In Italy, within the last ten years, an increasing number of women have been involved on shift and night-work not only in the tertiary sector, but also in the industrial one. This has been made possible by the promulgation of Law 903/1977, concerning parity in treatment of both men and women in questions of employment. The work agreements for women night-work have gradually increased over the period 1980-1986 passing from 194 in 1980 to 357 in 1986, with approximately 10000 more women involved each year. The sectors mostly involved in these last years have been the textile, food and mechanical ones. The present study reports the major problems complained by the women shiftworkers as concerns their difficulties in family and social life, and refers the case of a group of women abruptly introduced to night work in a food industry, where they had been previously engaged only on day-work for many years. During the first year of night-work the absenteeism among this group tripled (29.8 days per year on average) with respect to the previous years. The impact on shift and night-work appeared to have been the most disruptive of the whole condition of this group of women, with negative effects on their personal, family and working life. High absenteeism, increasing psychosomatic complaints, worsening of the subjective health status, sleep disturbances, difficulties in family relationships were the main consequences. The women with heavier family commitments, namely those married with children, showed the worst effects. PMID- 2519743 TI - [Comparison of occupational and home accidents as a cause of severe burns. The experience of a large burn center in an industrial city]. AB - Among acute "traumatisms", occupational and domestic accidents chiefly share burn. To compare these two causes of severe burns, we examined clinical records of patients hospitalized from January 1986 to February 1989 in the "Grand Burns Center" at the C.T.O. hospital in Turin. Data exclusively refer to patients over 12 years old. 61 out of 313 cases (19%) were due to occupational burns, 221 (71%) to domestic ones (left cases including burns occurred in different surroundings). Males predominance was very high (95%) in the occupational settings, lower though still relevant (60%) in the domestic ones. The topographic distribution of the burns did not show any relevant difference. Similarly, the two groups did not differ as the affected percent of the body surface area (BSA) is concerned: in both cases burns extended cases. Decreased patients were fairly more numerous among the domestic burns (33%) as compared to the occupational ones (18%). The overwhelming majority (90.5%) of domestic burns were caused by fire; such a predominance, though present, was lower (68.8%) among occupational accidents. More in detail, domestic burns were caused as follows: alcohol spraying to stir a fire (26%), gas burst (25%), flammable substances exposed to heat sources (18%), hot water or different liquid (8%), fall over heating devices (6%), fires from cigarettes in bed (5%), kitchen stoves (with or without clothing fire) (5%), brushwood burning (4%), other (3%). It is worth noting that in as many as 40% of the cases of domestic burns patients were affected by a pre-existing neuro psychic disorder, namely: personality disorders (15%), psychiatric disorders (%), epilepsy (9%), mental debility (7%). PMID- 2519745 TI - [Alcoholism and home environment]. AB - Alcoholism is a very important social problem in our Country. Nevertheless our knowledge about the frequency and the features of alcoholism in the household environment is poor; until recently this kind of alcoholism was considered a female problem. The authors studied two homogeneous groups of male and female alcoholics. Females have a greater tendency to drink in the household. This behaviour is due to socio-cultural condition rather than to different psychological features. The authors also reported the importance of the family in the etiology, evolution and treatment of alcoholism. PMID- 2519744 TI - [Kinds of home accidents]. AB - A survey on hospitalization due to domestic accidents conducted in Padua in three public hospitals shows that between 1979 and 1988 there were 12.251 cases. Women in particular seemed to be affected by the phenomenon (7.926 cases, 64.7% of total) especially if aged 45 years or over (6.382 hospitalizations). Home injuries among females are the second cause of hospitalization due to trauma and represent the leading cause of accidental deaths (355 cases during the period of the survey). Lethality of this kind of injury progressively increases starting from the ages 30-44, and reaches 7.1% in older people (60 years or over). The causes of these accidents have been analyzed in 197 cases of fatal domestic accidents during the five years 1984 to 1988 and in 277 cases of non fatal accidents that involved subjects between the ages of 15 and 59 during the years 1986. In both situations the most frequent cause was falling (132 fatal, 159 non fatal cases); this finding shows the importance of a primary prevention programme based on the improvement of domestic structures and more care in furniture planning. The second place both among fatal and non fatal injuries belongs to burns (21 fatal and 17 non fatal). These frequently arise from incorrect behavior and emphasize in this way the necessity of improving sanitary education. A great number of home accidents (33 hospitalizations), can be attributed to bad working instruments or absence of security devices. This all shows the necessity of specific security regulations regarding installations and utensils of domestic use. PMID- 2519746 TI - [Depression and home environment]. AB - The Authors consider the higher frequency of depressive disorders in women and examine the correlations between psychopathological expressions of depression and women's social and cultural roles. The condition of life at home, that is peculiar to housewife, sometimes can be a psychopathological risk factor or psychosocial stressor, as well as other work conditions (whether the woman is employed or not), that have to be examined in relation to each person, according to the individual's biological, psychosocial and cultural features. PMID- 2519747 TI - [Female double shift: psychological aspects]. AB - In the present study we first analyzed the processes of induction which ach in preadolescence and adolescence an the female sex as to the personal professional choices for the future. Furthermore, we shore, within the limits of the actual society, the positive and negative sides of the double female roll, with particular attention to the psychologic aspects. PMID- 2519749 TI - [Enclosed environments and health]. AB - Problems related to Indoor Air Quality are subject of study since about twenty years. New architectural criteria, new building materials and increasing demands of energy saving have progressively changed residences, offices and all non industrial indoor environments. This paper present a review of the IAQ-related issues from sources characterization, to pollutant assessment and definition of effects on human health. PMID- 2519748 TI - [Men and home environment: when the wife exercises an extra-familial activity]. AB - The study examines the views of men towards the division of household duties when the female partner is employed outside the home. A variety of behaviour ranging from a complete refusal to participate in domestic activity to an equal division of household tasks is demonstrated. The main determining factors seem to be: socio-cultural level and age group. The woman's right to persue a career was recognized mainly by men in middle to upper social class in the 25-30 age group who participate in household duties. It is evident that, even in the case of domestic collaboration, women have the ultimate responsibility for household tasks. In that men tend to choose the more gratifying duties (es. cooking, child care). PMID- 2519750 TI - [Microclimate and the respiratory system]. AB - The thermal exchanges between lung and working or living environment constitute a very small amount of the total thermal exchange of the human body. They mainly depend on temperature and humidity gradients between inspired and expired air and on ventilatory levels as well. In spite of the smallness of such exchanges regarding the thermal steady state of the body, the variations of the climate physical parameters can greatly affect the lung either from the subjective or the objective point of view. Air humidity, temperature and ventilation are here considered as causes of respiratory discomfort and as risk factors of respiratory disease. It has been pointed out that the same parameter levels can exert a favourable or unfavourable influence on respiratory tract. For instance low humidity values can support the respiratory infections but usually prevent asthma crisis caused by indoor mite sensitization. Sometimes among the causes of respiratory risk can be involved the artificial systems of ventilation and humidification (air conditioning, humidifiers). It is not possible to set proper limit values for the physical parameters but only ranges where to determine the best combination for each single situation. The width of such ranges as well as the dysfunctioning of the artificial conditioning systems can in particular cases support some conditions of respiratory risk. PMID- 2519751 TI - [Allergological risk factors of bronchial asthma and rhinitis in enclosed environments]. AB - Environmental factors such as allergens and chemicals are known to play an important role in inducing asthma and rhinitis. Extensive studies on the indoor environment demonstrate that indoor home environment has a greater impact than outdoor or occupational environment. In the present paper the Author outlines the risk factors of asthma and rhinitis described up to date in the indoor environment. The possibility of an interaction between allergens, chemical and viruses in inducing asthma and rhinitis is discussed. PMID- 2519752 TI - [Cigarette smoke and bronchial hypersensitivity]. AB - Among intrinsic factors which may affect the onset of COPD, bronchial non specific hyperresponsiveness seems to play an important, even though, ill-defined role. Attention is drawn to 2 major points: 1) Cigarette smoking habit may increase airway responsiveness? 2) Any possible hyperresponsiveness induced by smoking may be relevant in the development of COPD? At present, only point 1 may be positively answered; point 2 will be clarified by means of perspective and long-term surveys, we have not achieved yet. Our cross-sectional study showed a significant influence of smoking on bronchial responsiveness in absolutely asymptomatic subjects and with airway caliber absolutely in the normal range. This kind of influence resulted to be dose-dependent. Furthermore a noxious role of smoking has been observed, the greater effect the higher amount of cigarettes/day smoked. Moreover this acute role of smoking has been remarked by the trend of bronchial responsiveness of past-smokers, the more similar to non smoker's, the more far was smoking cessation. PMID- 2519753 TI - [Risk factors of chronic obstructive bronchopneumopathy]. AB - After a preliminary discussion on the definition of COPD, the author points out the risk factors of COPD in indoor and outdoor environment. An increase in airway disease and particularly in COPD has been reported in children and elderly people in the areas with higher environmental pollution. Indoor pollution has been more recently investigated and most studies identify passive tobacco smoke as the major risk factor of COPD. At present, the role of other indoor chemical pollutants, as NOx and CO, in COPD is not clear. PMID- 2519754 TI - [Pathology caused by acari]. AB - This report concerns the observations the Authors have been carrying out for over twelve years in Sardinia; they regard the sensitization to house dust mites (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, Dermatophagoides farinae) and to storage mites (Acarus siro, Glycyphagus domesticus, Lepidoglyphus destructor, Tyrophagus putrescentiae) and are been obtained with: 1) skin tests with mite extracts; 2) RadioAllergoSorbentTest (RAST) for specific IgE and IgG; 3) mite exposure in homes and mite analysis; 4) hyposensitisation with personal time-lag vaccines holding one or more "storage" or "house dust" mites. They are been prepared on the ground of RAST, skin tests, clinical symptomatology and environmental exposure to mites; 5) clinical control after therapy with vaccines for a period of five till to ten years. The Authors obtained unusual results. PMID- 2519755 TI - [Technological risks in the household]. AB - It is very difficult to calculate precisely the phenomenon of domestic accidents in Italy because of the lack of sure statistics. Some rough evaluations estimate the domestic injuries as about 800,000-1 million, with about 9,000 dead in one year, whose causes depend on down-falls, scalds, poisonings, electrocutions, etc., due to technological installations (mainly electric and gas installations) and to the human behaviour. It is supposed that on 21 million installations existing in Italy, about 14 millions are not accorded to the rules of good technology. Until now, this matter has resulted only after a domestic injury, because no legislation had been issued. At least on March, the 5th, 1990, the Law no. 45 (published on the G.U. n. 59 of March, 12th, 1990) was issued. It obliges to build also the domestic technological installations according to the rules of good technology. Resides, it fixes the professional requirements of planners, installers and testers, making also the customers responsible. But being also human mistakes causes of accidents, some acts of sensibilization, information, and formation became more and more necessary addressed also towards those people who move within domestic walls, in order to create an "anti-injury conscience" that allows to became aware of dangerous situations at a rather instinctive level and to adopt safe measures as behaviour methodologies and postures. PMID- 2519756 TI - 'The great debate'. PMID- 2519757 TI - Problems created by heat-inactivation of serum specimens before HIV-1 antibody testing. PMID- 2519758 TI - Effects of long-chain triglyceride emulsions on reticuloendothelial system function in humans. AB - Parenteral administration of long-chain triglyceride emulsions has been shown to have deleterious effects on reticuloendothelial system function in animal models. It is unknown whether this interference occurs in humans with clinically relevant doses of intravenous fat. Two studies were done. Eighteen patients were prospectively enrolled for study. Patients received full feeding by continuous total parenteral nutrition (amino acids 1.5 g/kg/day and dextrose 4.5 g/kg/day) with 33.1 kcal/kg/day. Forty-three % of the nonprotein calories were provided as soybean oil emulsion (Travamulsion 20%) and was administered intravenously over 10 hr (0.130 g/kg/hr). Reticuloendothelial system function was determined by measuring the change in the clearance rate of intravenously injected 99mTc-sulfur colloid (TSC) in each patient. In study 1 (n = 10), one day of lipid (10 hr) was infused, with the clearance of 99mTc-sulfur colloid measured before the lipid was infused and then during the last hour of the 10-hr infusion. In study 2 (n = 8), the clearance rates were measured before the lipid emulsion was begun, and then during the last hour of the infusion on the 3rd day. Clearance rates for TSC after 10 hr of lipid infusion in study 1 did not differ (0.27 +/- 1/min to 0.26 +/- 0.1/min, p greater than 0.10). However, after 3 days of lipid infusion (10 hr/day), a statistically significant reduction in TSC was seen (0.46 +/- 0.08/min 0.27 +/- 0.03/min, p less than 0.05).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2519759 TI - [Familial outbreak of Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia]. AB - Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a pathogen of the human species which causes primarily acute respiratory diseases including pneumonia. It is transmitted from person through the respiration, and results in small epidemics. Most infected persons only develop pharyngitis or tracheobronchitis, whereas pneumonia develops in 3 30% depending on the age and characteristics of the evaluated group. Mycoplasma pneumoniae is the causative organism of 20% of community acquired pneumonias in the general population; this proportion rises to 60% in closed groups and in individuals below age 20 years. Two cases of Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia identified in a single family are reported, together with a case of tracheobronchitis most likely caused by the same organism. The clinical, diagnostic, therapeutic and preventive approaches to the mycoplasma infections are discussed, and also the therapeutic approach to be recommended, in primary care, to young patients with pneumonia. PMID- 2519760 TI - [Cross-sectional studies]. PMID- 2519762 TI - [Image diagnosis. The bony thorax]. PMID- 2519761 TI - [Diagnosis and treatment of urinary infection]. PMID- 2519763 TI - [Unexpected exanthema as the first manifestation of hydatidosis]. PMID- 2519764 TI - [Stage I primary biliary cirrhosis]. PMID- 2519765 TI - [Pediatric demand at the emergency department in a general hospital]. PMID- 2519766 TI - [Changes in the PR segment in pericarditis]. PMID- 2519767 TI - [Treatment of the chronic pain: the author's reply]. PMID- 2519768 TI - [HIV infection in patients without apparent risk factors]. PMID- 2519769 TI - [Diagnostic techniques in primary care]. PMID- 2519770 TI - [Urinary infections in childhood]. PMID- 2519771 TI - [The placebo effect and the prescription of "placebos"]. PMID- 2519772 TI - [Pilot study of the evaluation of the nutritional status in a population sample in a health area]. AB - We report the evaluation of a pilot study for the nutritional state carried out at a Health Center in Murcia, using a qualitative foodstuff questionnaire related to the previous 24 hours and the evaluation of anthropometric and analytical data. The evaluated individuals were randomly selected between the persons who had previously consulted. The survey was carried out by an interviewer. An outstanding result was that 90% of the surveyed individuals had ingested, at least one foodstuff from each group. The fat compartment was measured through the tricipital and subscapular fold and Quetelet index, and the protein compartment was measured through the muscular area of the arm. As reference values, the NHANES (USA) and the Alastrue Vidal (Spain) tables were used. It was found that the tricipital fold of the investigated population was underrated in the american tables (p less than 0.01). PMID- 2519773 TI - [Life style and level of health education in housewives from a neighborhood of Granada]. AB - In the present study some aspects of the health education level and life style of the housewives of a district of Granada were evaluated. The sample was randomly selected between the dwellings in that area. The participation rate was 60%. The survey was carried out by personal and direct interview by a female interviewer. The mean educational level was lower than high school in 97.5%. Mean age was 47 years. 13.3% of them were smokers, and 21.7% drank alcohol regularly. Only 44.1% of those in child bearing age used some contraceptive method; intrauterine devices were not used by anyone of them. Maternal lactation showed an increasing trend with age, but without statistical significance. 28.3% of women were unaware of the services of early diagnosis of genital cancer, and a similar rate ignored the preventive self-examination of the breast. The major conclusions of the study were that the educational level is directly related with the performance of beneficial health habits, and that the activities directed to health education should be promoted in the target population. PMID- 2519774 TI - [Descriptive analysis of demand of home visits at the Pozuelo de Alarcon health center (1985-1987)]. AB - The characteristics of the population cared for in home visits from 1985 to 1987 and the justification for these visits were evaluated. Elderly patients, females and consultations for respiratory diseases were more common. The patients belonging to higher socioeconomic classes were more common in the age groups below 20 years, whereas those from lower classes were more common in patients over 70 years. 70% of consultations were considered as non justified; these predominated in younger patients and in those from higher socioeconomic classes (a probably increasing group of population in Pozuelo) and from autumn to spring. Their number decreased in a near parallel fashion to that of justified consultations, probably in relation with a task of health education. We think that the population should be taught the proper use of this type of health attention, which would result in a better quality of care. PMID- 2519775 TI - [Evaluation of a program: cost/benefit analysis]. AB - The authors evaluate a program of peripheral obtention of analytical samples during a 37-month period in the Granada province, which it has been able to extend to 40.44% of the population. An analysis of the cost/benefit ratio and the efficacy in the implantation of the program (77.78%) during that period was carried out. The results were compared with those achieved with this program in other Spanish provinces. Finally, an indicator was proposed (expected mean number of users per 1000 inhabitants and month) which might permit to know in advance the effectiveness of the implantation of the Program in a given area. PMID- 2519776 TI - [Qualitative study of the demand of domiciliary care at a special emergency service]. AB - The demand for home attention in the special emergency service of L'Hospitalet and Cornella de Llobregat (Barcelona) was evaluated. The data from a sample of 2046 requests for home attention were assessed, corresponding to the period between July 1st, 1985, and June 30th, 1986. This sample was randomly selected from overall 28385 home visits carried out during this period. The age group with the highest demand of care was the 0-14 years group. There was a high number of requests of care for banal symptoms. The most common group of diseases were the respiratory conditions. 83% of patients received some type of therapy. In 12% of cases, admission to a hospital was indicated; the most common cause of admission to a hospital was indicated; the most common cause of admission was cardiovascular disease. Emphasis is made on the importance of the coordination between primary care groups and special emergency services, as well as on the need for continuing education of professionals with specialties related to the care of emergencies and pediatrics. PMID- 2519777 TI - DNA repair. PMID- 2519778 TI - Chromium(V)-induced cleavage of DNA: are chromium(V) complexes the active carcinogens in chromium(VI)-induced cancers? PMID- 2519779 TI - Synthesis of N2,3-ethenodeoxyguanosine, N2,3-ethenodeoxyguanosine 5'-phosphate, and N2,3-ethenodeoxyguanosine 5'-triphosphate. Stability of the glycosyl bond in the monomer and in poly(dG,epsilon dG-dC). AB - The synthesis of a new modified etheno-2'-deoxyguanosine is reported. N2,3 Ethenodeoxy-guanosine (epsilon dGuo) is a product in double-stranded DNA treated with the carcinogen vinyl chloride in vivo or its metabolite chloroacetaldehyde in vitro. The lability of its glycosyl bond has, however, interfered with its isolation from DNA. The synthesis, starting with O6-benzyl-2'-deoxyguanosine 5' phosphate, reacted with bromoacetaldehyde, could only be accomplished in slightly alkaline media, which prevented significant loss of the sugar. The 5'-phosphate also decreased the lability of the glycosyl bond. The resulting compound, when deprotected, was converted to N2,3-ethenodeoxyguanosine 5'-triphosphate, as well as the corresponding nucleoside. Fluorescence, UV, and 1H NMR data were consistent with the assigned structures and almost identical with those of the previously synthesized much more stable ribo analogues [Kusmierek et al. (1987) J. Org. Chem. 52, 2374-2378]. A systematic study of the pH-dependent glycosyl bond cleavage gave a t1/2, 37 degrees C, pH 6, of approximately 3.5 h for the nucleoside and 7-10 h for the nucleotides. Comparison, under the same conditions, of stability of the glycosyl bond in poly(dG,epsilon dG-dC) showed an increased stability of 2 orders of magnitude, t1/2 = approximately 600 h. The rate of sugar loss was, in all cases, greatly decreased at higher pH's, over the range of pH 5 9. These stability data indicate that when slightly alkaline conditions can be used, studies on incorporation of epsilon dGuo into polymers for in vitro mutagenesis studies are possible. PMID- 2519780 TI - The Fenton degradation as a nonenzymatic model for microsomal denitrosation of N nitrosodimethylamine. AB - The microsomal metabolism of the carcinogen N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) was suggested to be initiated by hydrogen atom abstraction to form an alpha nitrosamino radical, which either oxidizes further to an alpha-hydroxy nitrosamine as the initial product of the activating dealkylation pathway or fragments to the nitric oxide radical and N-methylformaldimine as the first step of the presumably inactivating denitrosation route. To examine the chemistry of the alpha-nitrosamino radical in a nonenzymatic setting, we exposed NDMA to the Fenton reagent, which is known to be capable of abstracting hydrogen atoms from organic species. The products observed were those expected of a denitrosation model. Solutions containing 13 mM [14C]NDMA, 15 mM FeSO4, 15 mM H2O2, and 7.5 mM H2SO4 were kept at 4-10 degrees C for 1 h and then basified to yield methylamine (3.2 +/- 0.5 mM, mean +/- SD, n = 8), formaldehyde (3.1 +/- 0.9 mM), and unreacted nitrosamine (10.2 +/- 0.7 mM) as the only radioactive species detected, with total nitrate/nitrite also being found at a level of 2.8 +/- 0.5 mM. N Methylformaldiminium ion was identified as an intermediate. The parallels between these results and those seen in the microsomal reaction support the hypothesis that the alpha-nitrosamino radical is a common intermediate in enzymatic denitrosation versus dealkylation of NDMA.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2519781 TI - Isolation and identification of 3-hydroxy-3-methyloxindole, the major murine metabolite of 3-methylindole. AB - 3-Methylindole (3MI) is pneumotoxic to ruminants and rodents subsequent to metabolic oxidative activation by cytochrome P-450 monooxygenases. Goats are much more susceptible than mice and rats to 3MI-mediated lung damage, and these differences in species susceptibility may be reflected by differences in the metabolic products of 3MI. Radioactive 3MI was administered ip to Swiss-Webster mice, and the major nonpolar urinary metabolites were fractionated and separated by HPLC. Although 3-methyloxindole has been shown to be the major urinary metabolite of 3MI in goats, it was not detected in mouse urine. Instead, the major metabolite, 3-hydroxy-3-methyloxindole, was isolated and purified and its structure elucidated by 1H and 13C NMR, mass spectrometry, and IR spectroscopy. This is the first identification of this highly oxidized indole from mammalian sources. The production of this metabolite may be indicative of the formation of an electrophilic methyleneoxindole intermediate, which could be responsible for pneumotoxicity in this species. PMID- 2519782 TI - Identification of 3,N4-propanodeoxycytidine 5'-monophosphate formed by the reaction of acrolein with deoxycytidine 5'-monophosphate. AB - Acrolein reacts with deoxycytidine 5'-monophosphate at physiological pH to form one major adduct. A second minor adduct can be detected when a 3-fold excess of acrolein is present in the reaction mixture. The products were separated by ion pair HPLC on two reverse-phase columns connected in series using triethylammonium formate as ion-pair reagent. The major adduct was characterized as 3-(5' monophospho-2'-deoxyribosyl)-7,8, 9-trihydro-7-hydroxy-pyrimido [3,4-c]pyrimidin 2-one (3,N4-propanodeoxcytidine 5'-monophosphate). This mixture of diastereomers was formed by addition of C1 of acrolein to the exocyclic amino group at the 4 position of cytidine, followed by ring closure between C3 of acrolein and N3 of the heterocyclic ring. In order to address the utility of 32P postlabeling for the detection of this exocyclic adduct in acrolein-modified nucleic acids, an acrolein-deoxycytidine 3'-monophosphate reaction mixture was subjected to 32P postlabeling. 3-Dephosphorylation with nuclease P1 and the 3'-phosphatase activity of T4 polynucleotide kinase yields a nucleotide 5'-[32P] monophosphate which cochromatographs with 3,N4-propanodeoxycytidine 5'-monophosphate. These data indicate that 32P postlabeling and 3'-dephosphorylation can be used in conjunction with ion-pair HPLC for the detection and quantitation of acrolein modified nucleotides. PMID- 2519783 TI - Young infants' feeding patterns when sick and well. AB - Observations of sick infants' feeding patterns suggest that changes occur which are specific to certain illness conditions. These changes may disrupt the feeding synchrony that had been established early in the infant's development. Little research has been done on differences in feeding behaviors of infants when they become sick with a specific illness condition. This research study investigated the differences in specific feeding behaviors of infants when they were sick with an acute respiratory condition compared to when they were well. In this comparative descriptive study, infants 1 to 4 months of age were observed in their homes. The study sample consisted of 16 full-term infants who were bottlefed and became ill with a respiratory infection. Infants were videotaped during two feedings when they were ill and one feeding when they were well. Caregiver questionnaires and videotapes were the data collection tools. The videotapes were analyzed using an Infant Feeding Behavior Assessment Checklist which measures four categories of feeding behaviors: type of seal around nipple, suck-pause pattern, suck-swallow pattern, and respiratory pattern. Descriptive statistics assisted in the exploration of differences that existed between the infants' sick and well feeding behaviors. Analysis indicated that there were differences in the infants' sick and well feeding behaviors. When well, infants appeared to smoothly coordinate their suck-swallow and breathe cycle. When sick, the infants had an erratic suck-pause pattern, loosened their seal around the nipple, and had an irregular respiratory pattern with some degree of respiratory distress. PMID- 2519784 TI - [Breast feeding, amenorrhea and infertility]. PMID- 2519785 TI - [Family planning during breast feeding]. PMID- 2519786 TI - [Breast feeding: general and nutritional advantages for the child under 1 year of age]. PMID- 2519787 TI - [Successful breast feeding: description of mother-child binomial management]. PMID- 2519788 TI - [Interstitial implant with Au198 in prostatic cancer]. AB - Since 1983 to 1987, 13 patients with prostate cancer have been treated. The average age was 64.5 years. All of them were staged according to Whitmore and Jewett systems. Patients with B1, B2, C1 and C2 staging were included in this work. To evaluate the regional nodes, the patients underwent pelvic lymphadenectomy. Interstitial Au198 was performed at the time of operation. The interstitial irradiation delivered to the prostate was of 40 Gy and it was supplemented with CO60 (external beam therapy) till an equivalent of 60 Gy. When the lymphatic nodes were involved, the whole pelvic, ganglionic chain was irradiated. The results achieved with combined treatment of Au198 plus external beam therapy were the reduction of the prostate size, the disappearance of urinary symptoms and the complementary evaluation was normal for the 13 patients. Three out of 11 patients showed bone metastases in the follow up. One of them had also local relapse. Complications associated to radiotherapy were mild to moderate. Only one of the patients required diverting colostomy but he had suffered from rectal disease before radiotherapy. The results achieved until the close of this first report can be considered satisfactory if tumor regression and local control are taken into account, but the average time of follow up is too short to evaluate the survival rate. PMID- 2519789 TI - [Arterial hypertension in childhood and adolescence]. AB - One thousand six hundred and ninety-eight children and adolescents four to eighteen years-old were studied, eight hundred and forty of them were males and eight hundred and fifty-eight females. No individual following, was performed. Two determinations of both systolic and diastolic pressure were registered after a fifteen minutes rest, and the average figures of both, of them was registered. The group analyzed belonged to upper middle class and the hypertension figures were: females 28 (3.26%) and males 30 (3.57%). The influence of bodily area was observed en hypertensive patients. Those located between the average +/- two standard deviations were considered as normal. (95% of the cases). PMID- 2519790 TI - ["Cecal appendix with pellets"]. AB - A case is presented of caecal appendix with birdshots, in a 38 years-old male patient, with a clinical picture of biliary pathology. An elongated and "heavy" caecal appendix was palpated during cholecystectomy and removed. The pathological study showed the presence of 99 ammunitions or lead birdshots in the appendicular lumen, with a diameter of 1-5 mm, without histologic evidence of active appendicitis. The patient was fond of hunting wild animals and is used to eat them pickled. Pertinent literature is revised and works are commented in relation to the incidence of different foreign bodies in the appendix lumen, clinical picture and complications. PMID- 2519791 TI - [Hemodialysis, myths and medical and socioeconomic realities]. PMID- 2519792 TI - [Granulosa cells of the chick ovary: evolution studied during embryo development]. AB - The ovary of the chick embryo starts differentiation from the 7th day of development. The left ovary grows progressively, whereas the right one undergoes involution. With the purpose of determining the degree of regression of the right ovary in relation to the diverse types of granular cells that form it, an ultrastructural study was made of embryonic ovaries of 7, 11, 15 and 19 days old. Three types of granular cells are described: A cells, similar to granulocytes, with phagocytic functions, B cells with semi-dense granules and functionally active C cells with granules of low electronic density. During development, A cells remain in the right ovary until 19 days. Nevertheless, there is not an increase in their amount in the involuting ovary. B cells diminish in the right ovary from 7 to 19 days; however, no modifications are found in the left ovary. These cells are considered precursors of the C cells due to the transition forms found in both cell types. C cells are seen in similar proportions in both ovaries at all the embryonic stages studied. It is important to note that there is a difference in the mechanism of hormonal induction at the level of these cells in the ovary that progresses as compared to the one that undergoes atrophy. Precursor B cells would be destroyed in the right ovary before undergoing a complete functional differentiation. These observations would indicate that both B and C cells are involved in the hormonal control of differentiation and estrogen secretion in both ovaries. With respect to type A cells, further studies are needed to establish their function. PMID- 2519793 TI - [Structural, ultrastructural and cytochemical study of interstitial cells of the chick ovary during embryo development]. AB - It has been established that differentiation of the female gonad of the chicken is different in the right and left ovaries. Whereas the left ovary differentiates into the adult functional ovary, the right one suffers regressive changes and does not participate in the production of ova. Hence, we considered of importance to study the structural, ultrastructural and cytochemical characteristics of interstitial cells, which secrete estrogens in the left ovary and in the right one that undergoes atrophy, which has not been yet analyzed in this aspect. Chick embryos at 7, 11, 15 and 19 days of incubation were employed. The techniques used were H/E, Sudan IV, 3 -beta- hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and transmission electron microscopy. At the light microscope these cells were clearly identified in the medullary cords, grouped in nests circumscribed by connective tissue, since 11 days of incubation. With H/E they exhibited a cytoplasm of foamy aspect and clear vacuoles of variable size. The amount of cell nests increased with the ages of the embryos. Besides, we found accumulation of sudanophilic granules and an enzymatic activity that increased during the course of development. At the ultrastructural level these cells contained an abundant smooth endoplasmic reticulum with tubules and vesicles, mitochondrias with tubular cristae and a considerable number of lipidic inclusions. The above mentioned elements confer to these cells and steroid-secreting activity. It is noteworthy that in the ovary that regresses interstitial cells do not disappear. In conclusion, we may point out that the right ovary would be rudimentary in ova formation, but would remain active with respect to hormonal secretion.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2519794 TI - [Biliary lipid secretion in men with cholelithiasis]. AB - Supersaturation of bile is indispensable for the appearance of cholesterol gallstones; it can be due to hypersecretion of cholesterol or to hyposecretion of bile acids and phospholipids. In a previous study we demonstrated cholesterol hypersecretion in Chilean women with gallstones. To elucidate the secretory defect in male patients we studied two groups of young men with normal body weight and a functioning gallbladder: four individuals with cholesterol gallstones and six healthy volunteers. The bile acid pool size and the secretory rate of bile acids and phospholipids were similar in controls and gallstone patients. On the other hand, cholesterol output was higher in the gallstone group. This study confirms the importance of biliary cholesterol hypersecretion as a major factor in the pathogenesis of gallstone disease in Chile. PMID- 2519795 TI - [Relationship between various erythrocyte antigens and hematologic disorders]. AB - The antigen pattern pertaining to the ABO (A, B, AB, O (H)), Rh (D, C, c, E, e), Duffy (Fya and b), Kell (K, k) and MNS (M, N) systems were determined in 144 patients between 1 and 74 years of age who had leukemia, lymphoma or myeloma. An association of phenotype Fy (a-b+) with acute lymphatic leukemia and phenotype NN with chronic myeloid leukemia was demonstrated (p less than 0.05, chi sq). Other associations were statistically not significant. Thus, a susceptibility of the aforementioned phenotype patterns to the type of leukemia described is suggested by these findings. PMID- 2519796 TI - [Parenteral nutrition: stability of lipid emulsions in different preparations]. AB - We studied the stability of fat emulsions kept in plastic bags and mixed with different proportions of amino acids, glucose and divalent cations. The quantity of fat, vitamins and other electrolytes was kept constant. Visual examination, pH determination, and measurement of particle diameter in Coulter Counter was performed at 0, 24 and 84 h. Particles greater than 5 microns were detected only in mixtures with Ca++, Mg++ and Zn++ concentrations at or above 7.7, 13.3 and 23.4 mEq/l, respectively. We conclude that fat emulsions for parenteral nutrition remain stable in mixtures when the concentration of divalent cations is not unduly raised. PMID- 2519797 TI - [Valvular insufficiency in dilated cardiomyopathy diagnosed by color Doppler echocardiography]. AB - In order to assess the incidence of valvular regurgitation in dilated cardiomyopathy, 26 patients, aged 32 to 61 years, were prospectively studied by two-dimensional echocardiography and color doppler flow imaging. Patients were in New York Heart Association functional class III or IV. All patients underwent coronary angiography which excluded coronary artery disease. Contrast ventriculography showed a dilated and hypocontractile left ventricle and right ventricular endomyocardial biopsy excluded specific heart muscle disease. Regurgitant flows were observed as a mosaic pattern and were semiquantitatively classified as mild, moderate or severe according to the width and depth of the regurgitant jets. Twenty-six (100%) patients had mitral regurgitation, 9 (34,6%) had aortic regurgitation, 12 (46.2%) had tricuspid regurgitation and 11 (42.3%) had pulmonary regurgitation. Multivalvular regurgitation was observed in 77% of patients occurring across two, three, or all four valves in 30.8%; 30.8% and 15.4% of patients, respectively. Two dimensional echocardiography color flow imaging shows a high prevalence of multivalvular regurgitation in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy. PMID- 2519798 TI - [Syncope: general characteristics and its relation to age]. AB - We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 146 patients admitted to a general hospital with the diagnosis of syncope. A definite or highly likely cause was identified in 91 patients (62%). These were of cardiovascular origin in 78%: conduction defects (31), sinus node disease (9), obstructive causes (8), ventricular arrhythmia (8), ischemia (5) and miscellaneous (14). A non cardiovascular origin was present in 22% of patients: intoxication (7), hysteria (5), hypoxemia (3), vasovagal (2), gastrointestinal bleeding (2) and 2 others. The final diagnosis in patients with a known cause was established by the history and physical examination in 16, the ECG in 42, Holter 9, ECG monitoring in ICU 8 and echocardiogram 6. No difference in the distribution of causes was present between patients below or above 65 years of age. In hospital mortality was 2%. PMID- 2519799 TI - [Systemic lupus erythematosus and pregnancy. Clinical experience in 57 patients]. AB - We reviewed the obstetric history of 57 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The number and outcome of pregnancies before and after the diagnosis of SLE was recorded. The clinical course of 21 patients who became pregnant during the observation period was noted. Before the diagnosis of SLE, 158 pregnancies resulted in a 20% rate of fetal loss (abortion, pre and neonatal death). This was lower than a 35% rate of fetal loss during pregnancies developed after the diagnosis of SLE. Both rates are significantly higher than the 10% which is considered normal for our reference population (p less than 0.001). A higher rate of fetal loss was observed in active SLE (37%) compared to inactive SLE (19%) and in the presence of SLE nephropathy (34%) than in its absence (17%), (p less than 0,01). A flourishing of SLE was observed in 50% of pregnancies, especially during the first trimester (59%) and after delivery (35%). We conclude that pregnancy occurs frequently in patients with SLE. The fetal risk is high although the clinical course of the disease is usually benign. Results in both terms are unfavourably influenced by the activity of SLE and the presence of nephropathy. PMID- 2519800 TI - [Value of ultrasonography in the diagnosis of distal choledocolithiasis]. AB - We performed real time echotomographic studies in 203 patients with a clinical diagnosis of obstructive jaundice. All patients were operated on and a diagnosis of choledocholithiasis was established in 125. The same diagnosis had been made by echo in 69 of them for a 63% sensitivity rate. The specificity was 92% and the positive predictive value 93%. An improvement in sensitivity from 52 to 80% and in specificity from 91 to 94% along the 3 year study period was detected. This high yield of the echographic study, not widespread in the literature, may be attributed to a careful study of the intrapancreatic section of the common duct were 92% of the stones were found. Also, the experience and training of the radiologist performing the examination is essential. PMID- 2519801 TI - [Computerized registry of medical procedures and diagnostic codification]. AB - Retrospective analysis of clinical information requires easy access to reliably stored data. We developed a program running on a microcomputer and using codes from the International classification of diseases, to be used on line. The program stores diagnostic codes, medical actions and a summary for each case. It uses inexpensive hardware and is friendly to inexperienced users. PMID- 2519802 TI - [Intra-articular treatment of osteoarthrosis of the knee with betamethasone dipropionate and disodium phosphate. Non-controlled, open 5 years' experience]. AB - We reviewed the result of treatment of knee osteoarthritis with intraarticular injection of betamethasone derivatives in 100 patients over a 5 year period. Knee involvement was bilateral in 34 of these patients. 1 ml of a mixture of betamethasone dipropionate and betamethasone phosphate was injected intraarticularly in each patient and repeated if needed at 3 week intervals. A total of 496 injections (mean 3.7 per knee, minimum 1 and maximum 18) were performed. Clinical and radiological evaluation before and midway through therapy revealed no side effects. The clinical response in terms of pain, mobility and functional capacity was good. We conclude that the therapy described results in good clinical and functional results over long periods of time in patients with knee osteoarthritis. PMID- 2519803 TI - [Neisseria gonorrhoeae: 3 years of surveillance of antibiotic susceptibility and search of beta-lactamase-producing strains]. AB - 247 strains of N gonorrhoeae were isolated from 453 patients with acute urethritis from 1985 to 1987. 19 strains produced beta-lactamase for a 7, 13 and 3% incidence in each of the 3 years. MIC between 1 and 8 micrograms/ml or between 65 and 256 micrograms/ml were found in 2 groups of beta lactamase producing strains. An increase in the sensitivity rate (81%) to penicillin of non beta lactamase producing strains was observed in this period. The sensitivity to erythromycin and chloramphenicol remained constant while a slight increase in resistance to tetracycline was observed. PMID- 2519804 TI - [Erythema chronicum migrans and Lyme's disease]. AB - A 66 year old woman with a history suggesting a tick bite on the right arm developed a slowly expanding erythematosus lesion. Similar lesions appeared on the trunk and extremities in the following months. A skin biopsy showing spiral shaped agents and the clinical findings were compatible with erythema chronicum migrans. A course of penicillin resulted in complete resolution of the lesions. After a 2 year follow up period she remains free of rheumatic, neurologic or cardiac lesions of Lyme's disease. PMID- 2519806 TI - [Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents: a critical view]. AB - The authors review the clinical pharmacology and untoward effects of nonsteroid antiinflammatory agents. Caution is needed when these agents are given to older patients, specially due to a higher incidence of gastrointestinal bleeding and aggravation of heart failure. A greater efficacy of these agents in acute rather than chronic inflammatory processes is recognized. PMID- 2519805 TI - [Plasmapheresis in acute pancreatitis secondary to familial hyperlipidemia in a pregnant woman]. AB - A 29 year old woman with type V hyperlipidemia developed acute pancreatitis associated with severe hyper triglyceridemia when she coursed the 28th week of pregnancy. Plasma exchange was performed 3 times and plasma lipids became normal, while the acute pancreatitis subsided. Intravenous and then enteric nutrition followed and a successful cesarean section was performed 30 days after the initial episode. PMID- 2519807 TI - [Nausea and vomiting induced by chemotherapy: bases to a rational treatment]. AB - Nausea and vomiting are a serious side effect of chemotherapy, frequently leading to failure of treatment compliance. Chemotherapeutic agents act preferentially on the chemo-receptor trigger zone located at the floor of the 4th ventricle. Vomiting may develop at initiation of therapy or several days later. Phenotiazine derivatives, butyrophenones or methochlopramide are particularly useful by their anti-dopaminergic effects. Canabinoids or steroids may be also useful. Combinations of drugs are frequently required. PMID- 2519808 TI - [Silent myocardial ischemia]. AB - During the last few years, the concept of "silent myocardial ischemia" has received special attention, particularly regarding its prognostic implications. Unfortunately a great variety of patients in different clinical settings have been included under the same definition. Thus, totally asymptomatic individuals are considered together with patients who have clinically evident stable or unstable angina pectoris, or patients in the post myocardial infarction phase. As a consequence, prognostic observations derived from clearly symptomatic cases are extrapolated to asymptomatic individuals in whom the only evidence of underlying coronary disease is an abnormal ECG stress test. The prognostic information available in this particular group shows that their clinical course is usually benign. Thus, invasive forms of investigation and management are not generally justified, in patients with properly define "silent myocardial ischemia". PMID- 2519809 TI - [Specialization and dehumanization of medicine]. AB - A landmark of our times is the preeminence of technology. The old idea of man achieving a better destiny through effort and self improvement has been displaced by the use of technology which is right here to provide everything, to instantly convert future in present. Contemporary Medicine is committed to technology, but this leads to a fragmentation of man in ever smaller segments. As a consequence a real knowledge of the sick individual becomes impossible, his self consciousness, his intimal life and vital projects become inaccessible to the doctor. PMID- 2519810 TI - [Advertising and communicative attitude: towards an ethics of publicity in medicine]. AB - Starting of from the notion that medicine presents a plurality of aims, it is proposed that it should be conceived as a "science of actions" rather than as a "science of objects". Health is not a neutral "object" that could be unambiguously defined and approached from any vantage point solely with the standards of a detached impersonal generalized observer. It is a construction in at least three domains: the personal, the scientific and the societal. Against this background, medical acts (as those performed in other "ethical professions") are construed as occurring in a communicative context which can be differentiated from the context of marketing and advertising on the basis of reciprocity and respect. Implications of this proposed framework are examined in terms of axiologic dimensions of health care and medical practice. PMID- 2519811 TI - [Training of medical specialists and continuing medical education]. PMID- 2519812 TI - [Intrauterine growth curve for the appropriate diagnosis of intrauterine growth retardation]. PMID- 2519814 TI - [Declaration of the Academia Chilena de Medicina on drug patents]. PMID- 2519813 TI - [The National Museum of Medicine. III. The parliamentary period (1891-1925)]. AB - During the european "belle epoque" and the period of positivism, Chilean medicine under a parliamentary regime, experienced great progress. Biomedical research began at the laboratories of the School of Medicine, University of Chile; the Sanitary Code, dictated in 1918, and the creation of the Ministry of Health (1924) may be considered the origin of social medicine in Chile; a new school of Medicine in Concepcion and Schools of Dentistry and Pharmacy in Santiago were created. Main public hospitals in Santiago and the "Asistencia Publica" were inaugurated at that time. Paintings of prominent physicians related to these activities are in display in the Museum. Most of the deans and distinguished professors of Medicine at that time had considerable political influence, many of them being simultaneously involved in governmental positions. This may explain why resources became available for a process which may be described as the development of Chilean medicine to serve the people. PMID- 2519815 TI - [Informatics in the development of medicine]. PMID- 2519816 TI - [Levels erythrocyte and plasma magnesium in patients in chronic dialysis]. AB - We studied 46 patients on chronic hemodialysis and 6 patients on peritoneal dialysis not taking Mg containing drugs. A colorimetric method was used to measure Mg in plasma and erythrocytes. Corresponding concentrations obtained in 40 healthy volunteers were 0.78 + 0.08 and 2.06 + 0.25 mmol/l. Plasma and erythrocyte Mg concentrations were 1.07 + 0.16 and 2.89 + 0.42 mmol/l in chronic hemodialysis patients and 1.38 + 0.19 and 3.04 + 0.34 mmol/l in peritoneal dialysis patients (p less than 0.0005 against controls). A significant correlation between plasma and erythrocyte Mg concentration was found only in volunteers. A negative correlation between plasma Mg and plasma PTH concentration was obtained in uremic patients. No correlation of plasma PTH and plasma Ca or erythrocyte Mg concentration was found in this group. PMID- 2519817 TI - Mechanisms of 3-methylindole pneumotoxicity. PMID- 2519818 TI - Origin of tetrahydrotetrols derived from human hemoglobin adducts of benzo[a]pyrene. PMID- 2519819 TI - Liver and lung microsomal metabolism of the tobacco alkaloid beta-nicotyrine. AB - The in vitro metabolic fate of beta-nicotyrine has been examined in rabbit lung and liver microsomal preparations as part of an effort to characterize the formation of potentially reactive metabolic species that may contribute to the toxic properties of tobacco products. HPLC analysis revealed the formation of an unstable metabolite which displayed HPLC-MS/MS characteristics consistent with the structure 1-methyl-5-(3-pyridyl)-3-pyrrolin-2-one. Attempted synthesis of this pyrrolinone, however, resulted in the isolation of the isomeric 1-methyl-5 (3-pyridyl)-2-pyrrolin-2-one. The HPLC, diode array UV, and mass spectral characteristics of this delta 4,5-isomer proved to be identical with those of the metabolite derived from beta-nicotyrine. Studies in D2O suggest that the 2- and 3 pyrrolinones are in equilibrium in aqueous solution. The metabolite undergoes autoxidation, possibly via radical intermediates, to yield 1-methyl-5-(3-pyridyl) 5-hydroxy-3-pyrrolin-2-one. PMID- 2519821 TI - A sensitive electrochemical method for quantitative hydroperoxide determination. AB - We report a general assay for hydroperoxides that is simple, selective, and sensitive. The assay is based on the reduction of hydroperoxides by glutathione (GSH) catalyzed by GSH peroxidase. Stoichiometric amounts of oxidized glutathione (GSSG) are produced that are separated from GSH by HPLC. GSSG eluting from the column is quantitated with a coulometric detector operating in the oxidizing mode (E = 0.82 V vs Pd). Picomole amounts of GSSG can be measured and related to the hydroperoxide concentration in the incubation mixture. GSH peroxidase has broad substrate specificity to many different hydroperoxides. Therefore, this method allows the determination of the total hydroperoxide concentration in the reaction mixture. For analysis of peroxidized phospholipids, phospholipase A2 is included in the reaction to release fatty acid hydroperoxides from the 2-position of the glycerol moiety. The presence of hydroperoxide is verified by addition of sodium borohydride or stannous chloride to sample extracts of biological fluids before analysis. The applicability of this method was tested by examination of human plasma from normal individuals for hydroperoxide levels. PMID- 2519820 TI - A kinetic model of the cell culture cytotoxicity of metabolically activated agents: N-methyl-N-(acetoxymethyl)nitrosamine, methylnitrosourethane, and (methylazoxy)methanol acetate. AB - The activity of three metabolically activated methylating agents, N-methyl-N (acetoxymethyl)nitrosamine (DMN-OAc), methylnitrosourethane (MNUT), and (methylazoxy)methanol acetate (MAM-Ac), were determined in cell culture by using a P388 cell growth rate inhibition assay. Experiments were conducted with normal P388 cells in Fischer's medium and under conditions in which the esterase mediated activation was modified by pretreating cells with the irreversible esterase inhibitor paraoxon and by adding acetylcholinesterase to the medium. Inhibition of intracellular esterase had a much greater effect on activity than did addition of enzyme to medium. These experiments provided data that were used to assess the utility of kinetic models as a means to gain a more detailed understanding of the cytotoxicity process in cell culture. Growth rate inhibition was related to the amount of intracellular alkylation resulting from formation of metabolic intermediates and their subsequent chemical reaction to form methyldiazonium ion and methylation products by using kinetic rate laws and measured rate constants. The model is applicable to systems that form unstable metabolites that can, in part, partition between the cell volume and incubation medium. When growth rate inhibition effects were related to cumulative intracellular alkylation [P], the ED50 values were the same for all three agents and for three previously reported chemically activated methylating agents, N methyl-N-nitrosourea, streptozotocin, and N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine, which are also thought to act through the methyldiazonium ion. This observation is consistent with a growth rate inhibition effect of the methyldiazonium ion that reflects the intrinsic activity of this species that is independent of the precursor molecule.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2519822 TI - Thermospray liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry studies on mechanisms of nucleic acid alkylation by some deuterated carcinogens. AB - Alkylation of liver nucleic acids of rats treated with nitrosobis(2 oxopropyl)amine (BOP), nitrosomethyl(2-oxopropyl)amine (NMOP), and (methylazoxy)methane (AOM) was studied by using deuterium-labeled compounds. Six hours after treatment of each rat with 5-10 mg of compound, nucleic acids were isolated from the liver of two rats and hydrolyzed in dilute acid, and the fraction containing 7-methylguanine (7-MeG) was separated by ion-exchange high pressure liquid chromatography. After purification by repeated chromatography, the sample was analyzed by liquid chromatography in ammonium acetate coupled with thermospray positive ion mass spectrometry. AOM containing a deuterated methyl group proximal to the oxygen-bearing nitrogen gave 7-MeG containing three deuterium atoms (169 amu), whereas AOM having the methyl group distal to oxygen deuterated produced 7-MeG without deuterium (166 amu). This indicates that methylation of nucleic acids is through oxidation of AOM to (methylazoxy)methanol and the corresponding aldehyde. BOP-d4, in which both alpha-methylenes contained deuterium, gave rise to 7-MeG containing two atoms of deuterium (168 amu). NMOP d5, with deuterium in the N-methyl and in the alpha-methylene, gave rise only to 7-MeG containing three deuterium atoms. The methyl-d3 group must originate from the N-methyl of NMOP, probably through formation of a methyldiazonium ion. This result lends support to a mechanism involving a Baeyer-Villiger oxidation of the ketone, rather than oxidation of the N-methyl and formation of an (oxopropyl)diazonium ion, which could give rise to a methylating agent following cyclization. PMID- 2519823 TI - 32P-postlabeling analysis of benzo[a]pyrene-DNA adducts formed in vitro and in vivo. AB - Benzo[a]pyrene (BP) was bound to DNA by horseradish peroxidase, rat liver microsomes, and rat liver nuclei in vitro and in mouse skin in vivo. The BP-DNA adducts formed were analyzed by the 32P-postlabeling technique. Activation by microsomes and nuclei resulted in the detection of five adducts, including a major adduct (55%) which cochromatographed with the adduct (+/-)-10 beta deoxyguanosin-N2-yl-7 beta, 8 alpha, 9 alpha-trihydroxy-7,8,9,10-tetrahydro-BP (BPDE-N2dG) formed by reaction of (+/-)-7 beta, 8 alpha-dihydroxy-9 alpha, 10 alpha-epoxy-7,8,9,10-tetrahydro-BP (BPDE) with DNA or by microsomal activation of BP 7,8-dihydrodiol. Activation by horseradish peroxidase, which catalyzes one electron oxidation, produced seven adducts, including a major one (30%) that coeluted with an adduct observed with microsomal (2%) and nuclear (14%) activation. The pattern of adducts formed in mouse skin treated with BP in vivo for 4 or 24 h contained four of the same adducts observed with nuclei or microsomes in vitro, and the predominant adduct detected (86%) was BPDE-N2dG. The adduct common to horseradish peroxidase, microsomes, and nuclei was also detected in mouse skin DNA (2%). These results demonstrate that multiple BP-DNA adducts are formed in these in vitro and in vivo systems and suggest that at least one adduct is formed in common in all of the systems. Thus, it appears that stable BP adducts can be formed in mouse skin DNA by both monooxygenation and one-electron oxidation. PMID- 2519825 TI - Characterization of DNA adducts derived from (+/- )-trans-3,4-dihydroxy-anti-1,2 epoxy-1,2,3,4- tetrahydrodibenz[a,j]anthracene and (+/- )-7-methyl-trans-3,4 dihydroxy- anti-1,2-epoxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydrodibenz[a,j]anthracene. AB - Structural characterizations of the DNA adducts derived from reaction of the racemic bay region anti-diol epoxides of dibenz[a,j]anthracene and 7 methyldibenz[a,j]anthracene with calf thymus DNA are presented. Quantities of adducts necessary for spectroscopic characterization were obtained from reactions of the respective diol epoxides with individual deoxyribonucleotides. Both hydrocarbon diol epoxides showed similar adduct profiles upon reaction with calf thymus DNA in vitro which were composed mainly of three deoxyguanosine and four deoxyadenosine adducts. No significant modification of pyrimidine bases in DNA was detected with either of the diol epoxides. Approximately 3 times more deoxyguanosine than deoxyadenosine residues in the DNA were found to be modified by both diol epoxides. The DNA reactions showed very similar stereo- and enantioselectivities with both diol epoxides. The stereochemistries of addition of the purine bases to the diol epoxides were determined from analysis of the NMR spectra of individual adducts. The predominant adducts formed were products of trans addition of the exocyclic amino group of purines to the diol epoxides. The enantiomeric nature of the various adducts was determined from reaction of the individual deoxyribonucleotides with the pure (+)-anti-diol epoxide of dibenz[a,j]anthracene. The major deoxyguanosine and deoxyadenosine adducts from reactions with DNA were found to arise from the (+)-enantiomer of both hydrocarbon diol epoxides. The high reactivities of both diol epoxides (24-38%) with DNA in solution are consistent with the high tumor-initiating activity exhibited by the diol epoxide of dibenz[a,j]anthracene relative to the parent hydrocarbon. PMID- 2519824 TI - DNA adducts from carcinogenic and noncarcinogenic enantiomers of benzo[a]pyrene dihydrodiol epoxide. AB - The characterization of eight benzo[a]pyrene-deoxyribonucleoside adducts derived from reaction of the anti-dihydrodiol epoxide and deoxyguanylic and deoxyadenylic acids is described. It is reported that the epoxide ring is opened by the purine amino groups to yield similar amounts of both cis and trans products. NMR data show that the 7- and 8-hydroxyl groups are pseudodiaxial in the cis products and pseudodiequatorial in the trans products, and we suggest that these products arise from reaction with the diaxial and diequatorial conformers of the dihydrodiol epoxides, respectively. The chiral nature of the interactions of these metabolites with DNA restricts the range of products formed with this macromolecule, and a trans product with deoxyguanosine is the major product formed with either enantiomer of the anti-dihydrodiol epoxide. PMID- 2519826 TI - Metabolic activation of (R)-(+)-pulegone to a reactive enonal that covalently binds to mouse liver proteins. AB - Pulegone, a naturally occurring hepatotoxin, is metabolically activated to chemically reactive intermediates that are capable of covalent binding to cellular protein. Studies in vivo and in vitro with inhibitors and inducers of cytochrome P-450 demonstrated an association among the hepatocellular toxicity of pulegone and its metabolic activation and covalent binding to protein. The exocyclic double bond of pulegone apparently is an important structural feature in the activation mechanism and binding to protein inasmuch as the reduced analogue, menthone, is neither hepatotoxic nor does it bind extensively to tissue proteins. Preliminary studies using semicarbazide as a trapping agent indicate that an unsaturated gamma-ketoaldehyde is the ultimate chemically reactive metabolite of pulegone. PMID- 2519827 TI - Thymic atrophy induced by murine mammary adenocarcinoma in vivo. AB - The thymic compartment of mammary tumor bearing mice is severely affected with increasing tumor growth. T cell functions in peripheral organs are greatly impaired or absent in such animals. A study of the thymus in relation to tumorigenesis revealed a profound decrease in size accompanied by a disrupture of the normal thymic architecture. Although a strong splenic suppressor cell activity can be detected in this animal model, splenectomy did not prevent thymic involution. Injection of tumor associated factors into normal mice resulted in a thymic atrophy similar to that seen in tumor bearing mice. These findings indicate that the observed thymic involution may not be only due to stress related phenomena but also a direct effect of the tumor. PMID- 2519829 TI - The action of cisplatinum (cis-DDP) on the postnatal growth of the rat liver. Cytokinetics and ultrastructural studies. AB - The early and late effects of cis-DDP treatment on liver cell kinetics were analyzed after its intraperitoneal injection into 17-day old rats. Frequency of binucleate hepatocytes, cellular DNA content distribution, 3H-thymidine labelling and ultrastructure of the nuclei were analyzed. Two days after treatment, a block of mononucleate hepatocytes in the S phase and in the G2 phase was demonstrated by the increase of intermediate 2c-4c and 4c DNA values in the absence of changes in 3H-thymidine labelling; 8c binucleate cells, which are essential for the formation of tetraploid mononucleate cells, were not found. In cell nuclei, large areas of more condensed chromatin appeared, perhaps providing further evidence for a G2 block. Seven days after treatment, there was a tendency to catch up with the normal situation, as shown by the unblocking of the S phase in mononucleate cells indicated by both cytophotometry and autoradiography. The presence of 8c binucleate cells and 4c-8c mononucleate cells indicates that 4c mononucleate hepatocytes are either diploid cells in the G2 phase or true tetraploid G1 cells. The decrease in the heterochromatin areas and the appearance of hypertrophic nucleoli demonstrate an increase in the metabolic activity of the nuclei. Thirty six days after treatment, the incidence of different DNA hepatocyte classes and the 3H-thymidine labelling were already similar in control and in treated rats. PMID- 2519828 TI - Sucrose density gradient and exchange high performance liquid chromatography characteristics of rat prostate androgen receptor forms. AB - In this study, we characterized rat prostate androgen receptor using sucrose density gradient ultracentrifugation, gel permeation and anion exchange high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Our results indicated that 1) androgen receptor complexes in rat prostate cytosols containing no KCl were of 8-9S form corresponding to 270kDa, and in cytosols containing 0.6M KCl were of 5-6S form corresponding to 90kDa; 2) 8-9S androgen receptor complexes were retained and could be eluted by 0.22M KCl in a linear gradient anion exchange HPLC; 3) Dilution (10X) of the 8-9S and of the 5-6S receptor complexes and subsequent chromatography on anion exchange columns was indicative of fragmentation. Fragments were of 3-4S form and were eluted by 0.33M KCl on anion exchange HPLC. Temperature (22 degrees C) was permissive of proteolysis generating a 30kDa androgen receptor fragment. These results are discussed in the context of the composition of non-transformed rat prostate androgen receptor. PMID- 2519830 TI - Effect of a pulsed magnetic field on healthy mice: a study of the weight of the thymus. AB - The hypothesis that magnetic fields act only on deficient functions has been tested through the weight of the thymus in mice. The involution of the thymus in mice is known to begin early in life. It is marked by a decrease in weight. Female Swiss mice of different ages were exposed to a pulsed magnetic field 0.6 or 6 mT in intensity, 12 or 460 Hz in frequency. It was shown that the weight of the thymus in 8-week-old mice was not modified by the exposure, while the weight of the thymus in 15-week-old mice was increased. The maximum increase, about 16% relative to the controls, was obtained 24 hours after a 30 minutes' exposure. Hydrocortisone or cyclophosphamide prevented the effect. The increase in weight has been considered to be due to an increase of the number of the cells in the thymus. PMID- 2519831 TI - Pharmacokinetics and body distribution of amiodarone and desethylamiodarone in rats after intravenous administration. AB - The pharmacokinetics and body distribution of amiodarone and desethylamiodarone were investigated in rats following a single intravenous dose of 100 mg/kg and 150 mg/kg of amiodarone. The decline in serum and tissue concentrations of amiodarone and desethylamiodarone are described by biexponential functions. All aspects of the typical kinetic profile of the drug and its major metabolite, desethylamiodarone, are discussed. Amiodarone is preferentially distributed in decreasing order in thyroid gland, lung, kidney, liver, heart, adipose tissue, skeletal muscle and brain. The metabolite desethylamiodarone showed a distribution pattern which is similar to that observed for the parent drug. Our study indicates an extensive distribution of amiodarone, with the thyroid gland and lung as organs with specific binding sites or uptake mechanisms and adipose tissue as a depot with a large storage capacity. We also found a very extensive distribution of the metabolite desethylamiodarone with mainly lung and thyroid gland and to some lesser extent kidney, liver and heart as organs with sites of metabolism and/or specific binding sites or uptake mechanisms and fat as a reservoir for the drug. Our data demonstrate the advantages of intravenous loading dosages of amiodarone over oral doses, since considerably higher and longer lasting effective serum and tissue concentrations of amiodarone are reached while lower quantities of the less cardio-active metabolite are formed. PMID- 2519832 TI - Inhibitory effect of capsaicin on mouse lung tumor development. AB - The modification potentials of capsaicin on the development of pulmonary adenoma in newborn NIH (GP) mice were examined. Mice were given a single subcutaneous injection of 1 mg of benzo(a)pyrene (BP) or 40 micrograms of 9,10-demethyl-1,2 benzanthracene (DMBA) within 24 hours after birth and then 0.01% capsaicin (CAP) in the diet (Groups 1 and 2) for 6 weeks after weaning. Mice of groups 3, 4, 5 and 6 were given capsaicin, BP, DMBA and vehicle alone. All mice were sacrificed at week 9. Capsaicin caused a significant inhibitory effect on the frequency of tumor-bearing mice (BP-treated group) and the mean number of tumor (DMBA-treated group). The inhibitory activity is most profound in the group of female mice given DMBA combined with capsaicin. These results showed that capsaicin has inhibitory potential in the mouse lung tumor development induced by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (BP and DMBA). PMID- 2519833 TI - Differential clastogenic sensitivity of heterochromatin and euchromatin: evidence from an in vivo study made on a submammalian vertebrate. AB - One of the properties often attributed to heterochromatin is its susceptibility to induced aberrations and exchanges. However, earlier studies made mostly on different mammalian in vitro cell lines on the distribution of aberrations within euchromatin and heterochromatin at metaphase chromosome level have given contradictory results. In the present study, an attempt has been made to evaluate the clastogenic sensitivity of heterochromatin and euchromatin using somatic chromosome complements of a submammalian vertebrate as experimental model and considering both chromosome aberrations and SCEs as end points. PMID- 2519834 TI - Maturation of human fetal and infantile thymic cells in tissue culture. AB - Human fetal and infantile thymic epithelial (TE) cells were grown in tissue culture and were phenotypically characterized using monoclonal antibodies reactive against a number of individual components of human thymus. Cultures of infantile TE cells formed confluent monolayers after 14-17 days. This was accompanied by a dramatic increase in numbers of Hassall's corpuscles, septae formation and pseudolobulation. After 3 weeks in culture, the rate of cell growth slowed, and by 4 weeks an accumulation of fat cells was noted. Involution of the cultures occurred after this time. In contrast, cultures of fetal TE cells achieved confluence after only 6-8 days, and increased numbers of Hassall's corpuscles, septae formation and pseudo-lobulation could be observed after only 10 days. Fat cells appeared after 3 weeks in culture and involution occurred soon after. Cells which reacted with monoclonal antibodies specific for keratin and GQ ganglioside were predominant during the early stages of tissue culture. These cells ceased to play as important a role with increased time in culture; in contrast, cells reactive with monoclonal antibodies specific for distinct thymic components increased in number as time in culture progressed. PMID- 2519836 TI - Changes in tumor morphology in one human endometrial carcinosarcoma heterotransplanted into nude mice. AB - Tissue material from one human endometrial carcinosarcoma was transplanted into nude mice. In the third passage two independent tumor lines developed, which continued to grow independently. After the fifth passage one line could be diagnosed histopathologically as a poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma without sarcoma components, while the other line was still a carcinosarcoma. It was assumed that the development of two histologically different tumor lines could be due to clonal selection induced by the new host. PMID- 2519837 TI - Efficacy of idiotypic vaccination in mice bearing B-cell lymphoma. AB - Mice bearing B-cell lymphoma of BCL1 type were vaccinated with idiotype protein (IgM - Id) of IgM lambda type derived from BCL1 malignant cells. Mice were injected with different doses of BCL1 cells (10(3) and 10(6) cells) at the beginning of experimentation. The vaccination was started on days 5, 10 and 15. Mice were injected with either IgM - Id, IgM - Id conjugated with KLH, IgM - P (IgM lambda obtained from plasmacytoma) or were not immunized. Immunization with IgM - Id conjugated with KLH was more effective in preventing the death of mice injected with 10(3) and 10(6) cells than IgM - Id or IgM - P alone. There was a higher titre of anti-idiotype antibodies in mice immunized with IgM - Id - KLH than in those with IgM - Id only. PMID- 2519835 TI - Radiotherapy and concomitant chemoradiotherapy in the NB rat prostate adenocarcinoma model. AB - The NB Rat Prostate Adenocarcinoma Model has been utilized to evaluate the effect of radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and the combination of these two modalities on growth of the androgen insensitive Nb AI-3 prostate tumor. These studies have demonstrated tumor regression in animals treated with Cyclophosphamide in combination with Cisplatin (p less than 0.05). Tumor regression was also seen in the groups treated with radiation therapy at doses of 600 cGy, twice weekly, for three weeks (p less than 0.05), 500 cGy, three times weekly, for three weeks (p less than 0.05), and 300 cGy, three times weekly, for three weeks (p less than 0.05). Complete tumor regression was seen in groups receiving 500 cGy, three times per week, for three weeks, concomitantly with fractional dose Cyclophosphamide and Cisplatin (p less than 0.001). Complete tumor regression was also seen in rats treated with radiation therapy at a dose of 300 cGy three times per week for three weeks concomitantly with fractional dose Cyclophosphamide and Cisplatin (p less than 0.001). Another group treated with radiation therapy alone at a dose of 750 cGy, one time weekly, for four weeks, demonstrated progression of tumor growth. All control and treatment groups demonstrated metastatic lesions with the exception of the group receiving 600 cGy twice weekly. PMID- 2519838 TI - Gestational changes in hamster adrenal cortex. II. Proliferative activity of adrenocortical cells in the course of gestation. AB - Proliferative activity of adrenocortical cells was determined in the course of hamster gestation. The highest adrenal gland weight was noted at day 5 of pregnancy, followed by a gradual decrease towards the end of gestation. As revealed by stereology, total number of adrenocortical cells increased notably at days 5 and 10 of pregnancy and was followed by a prompt drop to the value observed in the control group. In vitro 3H-thymidine incorporation per pair of adrenals increased slightly at days 5 and 10 of pregnancy and decreased at day 15. The highest DNA content was found in adrenals taken at day 10 of gestation. The number of mitoses per adrenal section also increased at days 5 and 10 and reached the control value at day 15 of pregnancy. After vincristine administration, mitoses were predominantly seen in glomerulosa and outer fasciculata zones. Thus in the course of hamster pregnancy, a marked increase in proliferative activity of adrenocortical cells occurs up to day 10 of gestation and is followed by a significant drop in proliferative activity in the final days of pregnancy. PMID- 2519839 TI - Alteration in hepatic nuclear RNA polymerase activity following benzo[a]pyrene administration in rat. AB - Benzo[a]pyrene was administered intraperitoneally to male Wistar rats as a single dose of 20 mg.kg-1 body weight. Two hours after its administration, livers were excised and the enzyme RNA polymerase was solubilized from purified nuclei. The enzyme was resolved into three forms, polymerase I, II and III by partial purification on DEAE-Sephadex A-25 column. All the three forms of nuclear RNA polymerase were inhibited in response to administration of benzo[a]pyrene. This was evident in terms of total yield as well as specific activity of each enzyme. The inhibition of nuclear transcription following administration of benzo[a]pyrene as observed previously (1) along with the present results on the enzyme inhibition clearly suggest that benzo[a]pyrene acts on both the major components of transcription machinery i.e. the template chromatin and the enzyme RNA polymerases. PMID- 2519840 TI - Changes in the rates of lipogenesis and hepatic triglyceride secretion in mice bearing Ehrlich ascites carcinoma. AB - The growth of Ehrlich ascites tumors (EAT) in mice induces hypertriglyceridemia and depletion of lipid stores. H-Riop: Swiss mice in early and late stages of tumor growth were examined to investigate whether an increase in liver synthesis of fatty acids (FA) and/or an increase in the liver triglyceride (TG) secretion rates (TGSR) would contribute to endogenous cancer-induced hypertriglyceridemia. Using 3H2O as tracer, FA synthesis decreased in the liver of tumorous animals. Hepatic TGSR also decreased during the development of hypertriglyceridemia. On the basis of these results, hypertriglyceridemia is probably not due to hyperproduction of lipids by the liver. In the late stage of tumor growth a considerable drop of FA synthesis also ensued in the adipose tissues, which probably participated in the loss of carcass lipids. At the early stage of tumor growth FA synthesis in the EAT cells was substantial in relation to the low lipid content of these cells, but in the late period FA synthesis slowed down, indicating that the triglyceride-rich "older" tumor cells obtained a large part of their lipids performed by the host. PMID- 2519841 TI - Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome: molecular biology and its therapeutic intervention (review). AB - AIDS is one of the most perplexing diseases to confront modern medicine today. AIDS will rank just behind accidents, heart disease and cancer as a major cause of potential life lost in the USA by 1991. Over half million AIDS cases are predicted by 1993 in the United States alone. There has been a great improvement in the understanding and treatment of opportunistic infections in AIDS. The most important concept is prophylactic treatment of the most common infectious complications as the immune system deteriorates. The major advance has been the prophylactic treatment of Pneumocystic Carinii Pneumonia (PCP) with either aerosolized Pentamidine or low dose Bactrim. Some experts advocate a low dose antibiotic prophylaxis for latent toxoplasma and cryptococcal infection in those patients whose immune systems are deteriorating. Prophylaxis would be instituted as the T4 helper lymphocyte count decreases. Finally, any patient found to be lately infected with either tuberculosis or syphilis, while HIV positive, must be thoroughly treated for these infections prior to any immunocompromise. The minimum follow-up of HIV positive individuals should include T4 lymphocyte counts and perhaps P24 antigen levels as well as beta 2-microglobulin levels. As these parameters worsen, patients should be directed to explore safe available treatments such as Antabuse, Naltrexone and Dextran sulfate. Any healthy patient with T4 helper counts under 400 should be directed to AIDS treatment evaluation units for enrolment in research protocols. At present over 100 drugs are being tested for the treatment of AIDS. However, researchers predict that no more than one or two drugs will be discovered over the next three years that will be helpful in the treatment of AIDS. If ever there was a more powerful argument to institute a new way of evaluating research drugs, it is this prediction. Due to the epidemic proportions of this disease, it seems reasonable to test epidemic proportions of this disease, it seems reasonable to test drugs shown to have some effect in groups of three of four drugs per patient. It is well demonstrated that AZT (Zidovudine) loses its anti-retroviral effect at about twelve to eighteen months. Drug resistance is seen in the treatment of a similar infectious agent, M. tuberculosis. Acute infection of MTB necessitates the use of three antibacterial agents. In AIDS infection, it seems logical to test two or three anti-retrovirals combined with one immunostimulant.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2519842 TI - Effects of beta-carotene-rich algae Dunaliella on reproduction and body growth in mice. AB - Effects of beta-carotene-rich algae Dunaliella on reproduction and body growth were investigated in SHN mice. At 2-3 months of age, female mice were placed with males and fed different diets simultaneously throughout the experiment; Group I was provided with AIN-76TM diet containing 2.2 X 10(-4)% retinyl palmitate. Group II or III was given vitamin A deficient AIN-76TM diet supplemented with spray dried powder of Dunaliella or its oily solution. The final concentrations of beta carotene in the diets were 5.1 X 10(-5)% and 3.0 X 10(-2)% in groups II and III respectively. Groups II and III were markedly lower and higher than group I in still-birth rate and litter size or rearing rate, respectively. Body growth was also enhanced in male offspring fed supplemental beta-carotene continuously (groups II and III). These results have demonstrated that, in mice, reproduction and body growth are improved by beta-carotene from Dunaliella. PMID- 2519843 TI - Sialoadenectomy-inhibited growth of transplantable rat mammary carcinoma (KN1003) with epidermal growth factor receptors. PMID- 2519844 TI - Estrogen receptor activation in relation to previous estrogen treatment in carcinoma corporis uteri heterotransplanted into nude mice. AB - The interaction between estradiol and its receptor in human endometrial adenocarcinoma was investigated in a human tumor-nude mice model. Estradiol treatment was found to activate estrogen receptor (ER), estimated through the measurement of ER in the nuclear fraction. The receptor activation in the tumors was significantly higher in tumors previously treated with estradiol than in previously non-treated tumors. The activation seems also to be dependent on the estrogen dose. We concluded, that previous influence of estradiol may change the sensitivity of estrogen receptor positive tumors for its hormone, and therefore the measurement of the receptor content alone does not seem to be a sufficient marker for the prediction of the receptor activation process. PMID- 2519845 TI - Normal and abnormal metabolism in injured rat brains by P-31 NMR spectroscopy. PMID- 2519846 TI - The implications of dietary recommendations for dietary patterns and health. AB - Dietary recommendations to the American public have remained essentially unchanged over the past century. They include maintaining appropriate body weight, limiting the intake of fat, salt, sugar and alcohol, and consuming adequate amounts of complex carbohydrates and fiber, especially fruits and vegetables and whole grain products, and eating a variety of foods. These guidelines generally apply to maintenance of good health or specifically to lowering the risk of diet-related chronic diseases. Dietary patterns over the past century have changed dramatically, in some ways that are consistent with dietary recommendations. However, the association of these changes with nutrition education programs aimed at producing such modifications or with improvements in the health status of Americans is unclear. Better research is needed to understand factors that govern food choices. PMID- 2519847 TI - Lowering of blood glucose in athymic nude mice and rats, grafted with human lung cancers. AB - Human tumors were transplanted into athymic nude mice. From blood samples in the final stage of their passages we observed that in some of these lines, human lung cancer lines mostly, blood glucose generally decreased with increasing size of the tumor grafts. This observation was the reason for further investigations. Eight out of 13 human lung cancer lines caused a decrease of blood glucose in grafted mice. The extent of decrease was directly correlated with the proliferation of grafts. The results raise hope that the model of human malignant tumors, xenotransplanted and passaged into athymic nude mice, could be helpful in research on IGF and related substances. PMID- 2519848 TI - Antitumor activity of calcium in combination with antitumor agents against Lewis lung carcinoma. AB - The antitumor activity of calcium gluconate in combination with mitomycin C and 5 fluorouracil was examined against subcutaneously implanted Lewis lung carcinoma bearing C57BL/6 mice. The mice were divided into four groups: group 1 received mitomycin C (2 mg/kg) and 5-fluorouracil (50 mg/kg) intraperitoneally once a week for four weeks beginning from the day after implantation of tumors, as well as calcium gluconate (155 mg/kg) twice a week for the same four weeks; group 2 received only mitomycin C and 5-fluorouracil; group 3 received only calcium gluconate; group 4 received a vehicle (physiological saline). Significantly enhanced inhibition of tumor growth was observed neither in a comparison between groups 3 and 4, nor in a comparison between groups 1 and 2 (expect on day 20 post implantation). Thus calcium gluconate given alone or in combination with antitumor agents hardly appeared to possess effective antitumor activity. PMID- 2519849 TI - Proposed mechanisms for selenium-inhibition of mammary tumorigenesis (review). AB - Both the reduced and oxidized forms of selenium are available at various rates through a common selenium pool for incorporation into selenoproteins, of which glutathione peroxidase is the best studied. Dietary selenium as selenite and selenomethionine decreased the incidence of rodent mammary tumorigenesis. The postulated mechanisms of this inhibition includes alterations in the level of GSHPX, membrane peroxidation, glutathione, immune functions, induction of specific selenoproteins, alterations of carcinogen metabolism, and the effect of various chemical forms of selenium. After many studies the mechanism of action of selenium in the inhibition of mammary tumorigenesis is still unknown, although studies of the role of selenoproteins appears the most promising. PMID- 2519850 TI - Distribution of selenium-binding proteins in different tissues of the mouse and rat. AB - The distribution of selenium-binding proteins in specific tissues of mice and rats was examined by electrophoretic and immunologic techniques. Major selenium binding proteins of 58K and 26K daltons were present in whole blood, erythrocytes, liver, duodenum, mammary tumors, kidney, testis, ovary and pancreas by electrophoretic analysis. By Western immunoblot it was evident that the 58K protein in plasma did not cross-react with the cellular 58 K protein. Furthermore, muscle did not exhibit any immunologically recognizable 58K protein. The antibody raised against mouse liver 58K recognized a similar protein in rat liver, kidney and testis. The 58K selenium-binding protein appeared to be concentrated in tissues enriched in G1 and the effect of hydroxyurea on selenium binding protein levels suggested the 58K selenium-binding protein appeared to be made predominantly during the G1 phase of the cell cycle. Evidence is also presented that whole blood contains selenium bound to hemoglobin which supports prior evidence by other investigators. These results further support the evidence for tissue selenium-binding proteins other than glutathione peroxidase and document the immunological specificity and reactivity of a new antibody against a selenium-binding protein. PMID- 2519851 TI - Ellagic acid effects on the carcinogenicity, DNA-binding and metabolism of 7,12 dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA). AB - Naturally-occurring components of the human food supply have recently received attention as possible agents for cancer chemoprevention. The plant phenol ellagic acid has been reported to be an effective inhibitor of carcinogen metabolism and certain chemically-induced tumors. Therefore, we evaluated the efficacy of ellagic acid in inhibiting DMBA metabolism, DNA-binding and the initiation of DMBA-induced carcinogenesis in rat mammary tissue. Mammary epithelial cell aggregates were isolated from rats fed control and ellagic acid (0.4 and 0.8%) containing diets. When incubated with DMBA, aggregates from ellagic acid-fed rats exhibited a significant but modest inhibition of DMBA metabolism and DNA-binding. An inhibition of DMBA-DNA binding and DMBA metabolism in secondary cultures of mammary epithelial cells also was detected only when ellagic acid was added at 150 molar excess compared to DMBA. The feeding of ellagic acid (0.8%) to rats for 28 days prior to the administration of DMBA resulted in a 21% reduction in mammary tumor incidence at 21 weeks which was, however, not statistically significant. Together, these results indicate that, in contrast to its effects with other carcinogens in other tissues, ellagic acid is not a potent inhibitor of DMBA metabolism, DNA-binding and carcinogenicity with rat mammary tissue. PMID- 2519852 TI - Synthesis of adenosine-N6-methyl, propylthioether-N-pyridoxamine: an analog of a novel vitamin B6 tumor product. AB - Studies on the time-course utilization of radiolabeled pyridoxine in rats with hepatomas led to the discovery of a novel vitamin B6 product. It is found in a spectrum of tumor lines but it is absent or occurs minimally in normal tissues. Hepatomas incorporate up to 20-30% of labeled pyridoxine into the novel product. Its structure was tentatively identified as adenosine-N6-methyl, propylthioether N-pyridoximine-5'-PO4. However, results of tests on the incorporation of labeled precursors into the novel product by 3B3 hybridoma or HL-60 cells support an N6 diethylthioether bridge linking the adenosyl and pyridoxyl moieties. The synthesis of adenosine-N6-methyl, propylthioether-N-pyridoxamine is reported in this paper. The mass spectrum of this analog is similar to that of the tumor product as seen by its fragmentation in further support of the structure of the tumor product. Whether the latter may be part of tumor RNA is questionable. RNA was isolated for 3B3 or HL-60 cells after incubation with tritiated or 14C pyridoxine using SDS-phenol repeated extractions in the presence of RNase inhibitors. Centrifugation of cRNA on 5-20% linear sucrose density gradients showed practically all the label at the top of the gradient. RNase treatment resulted in a labeled product which coeluted with the tumor product on reverse phase paired-ion HPLC and chromatographed as dinucleotide on paper. These results suggest that the novel tumor product may occur as a short oligonucleotide. PMID- 2519853 TI - Limiting the range of polyenoic fatty acids available from purified diets affects the growth of domestic cats. AB - The cat is deficient in delta-6-desaturase, preventing its utilisation of the plant-derived essential fatty acids. The species circumvents this problem by eating non-felines capable of this process. Kittens were fed diets varying in the type of post delta-6-desaturation fatty acids (PDFA). Growth patterns and external signs monitored for a period of 270 days, after which metabolic rates were measured, blood samples taken and the animals killed for other analyses. Differences were demonstrated in growth and metabolic rates, and the liver fatty acid profiles, and these were dependent on both the nature and amount of the PDFA provided by the diets. PMID- 2519854 TI - Metallothionein induction in rat hippocampal neurons in primary culture. AB - Primary cultures of hippocampal neurons are important for the study of trace elements in epileptogenesis. We developed a model system for culturing hippocampal neurons on poly-L-lysine in Iscove's modification of Dulbecco's MEM (IMDM) supplemented with K+, D-glucose, glutamine, insulin, p-amino benzoic acid, transferrin, BSA, beta-estradiol, gentamycin, and fungizone. Neurons were identified by histochemical staining for cholinesterase. Zinc at concentrations of 10(-9) to 10(-6) M induced metallothionein in hippocampal neuronal cultures. Maximum metallothionein induction occurred after 48 hrs incubation with zinc. PMID- 2519855 TI - Interaction of vitamin E and ascorbic acid (review). AB - Ascorbic acid appears to have two opposite roles in animal tissues: to act as an antioxidant or to act as a prooxidant. The effects of ascorbic acid supplementation on the tissue antioxidant status seem to be dependent on the dose of ascorbic acid and the vitamin E status. Adequate doses of ascorbic acid supplementation to vitamin E-deficient subjects or animals help to partially maintain vitamin E levels, probably through sparing the degradative metabolism of vitamin E, and thus increase the antioxidant effectiveness. The sparing effect of ascorbic acid on vitamin E metabolism is also shown in the partial reversal of the manifestation of vitamin E deficiency. On the other hand, when the animals are marginally adequate in vitamin E status, ascorbic acid supplementation in large doses appears to promote lipid peroxidation and significantly decreases the antioxidant potential of animals. An increase of the level of vitamin E supplementation overcomes the prooxidant effect of large doses of ascorbic acid. This observation suggests that vitamin E requirement may be increased with a large dose of ascorbic acid supplementation. PMID- 2519856 TI - Modelling vitamin B6 metabolism in rodents (review). AB - Several improvements have been incorporated into a previously described compartmental model of vitamin B6 metabolism in order to expand the application of the model to non-steady state conditions such as growing animals and differing vitamin B6 intakes. A function which describes the growth of rats receiving various vitamin B6 intakes has been developed. The turnover rates for enzymatic reactions have been written in a form which responds to changes in substrate concentration. The predictions of the model are in reasonable agreement with several sets of data from the literature. Further refinement of the model is in progress. PMID- 2519857 TI - Diethylnitrosamine and acetoxymethyl methylnitrosamine-induced carcinogenesis in mice and vitamin A deficiency. AB - The modulating influence of vitamin A deficiency on carcinogenesis induced by two potent carcinogens, diethylnitrosamine (DEN) and acetoxymethyl methylnitrosamine (AMMN), was studied in BALB/c mice. DEN was administered intragastrically every 30 days at a total dose of 200 mg/kg body weight, split into four doses. AMMN was applied continuously every 14 days on the tongue, at a dose of 2 mg/kg body weight. AMMN and DEN treated animals fed the vitamin A deficient diet had a significantly higher tumor incidence that mice fed the normal diet (p less than 0.05). Studies on the levels of vitamins A, C, B2 and folic acid in the liver and plasma of mice treated with the two carcinogens revealed that both the carcinogens increased vitamin C in both tissues, decreased folic acid and had no effect on vitamin A, while hepatic vitamin B2 was lowered by treatment with AMMN by not by DEN. PMID- 2519859 TI - Chemical modification potentiates paramylon induction of antimicrobial activity. AB - Induction of antimicrobial activity by two water-insoluble polysaccharides, paramylon and TAK, was significantly potentiated by introduction of positively charged groups (such as N,N-dimethylaminoethyl; N,N-diethylaminoethyl; and 2 hydroxy-3-trimethylammoniopropyl), but not by introduction of negatively charged groups (such as carboxymethyl or sulfate). Cross-linking of these derivatives with epichlorohydrin did not increase their potentiating activity. The effects of these derivatives did not always correlate with their ability to accumulate polymorphonuclear cells and to stimulate the generation of luminol-dependent chemiluminescence by peritoneal exudate cells. PMID- 2519858 TI - Effect of cis-diammino-dichloro-platinum (II) on cell growth and cell cycle progression of a mouse ascites tumor growing in vivo. AB - Cell kinetic studies of cis-platin (CDDP) have been few with divergent results. In this study, the effect of 12.5 and 25 micrograms CDDP/animal corresponding to approximately 0.4 and 0.8 mg CDDP/kg body weight was described when treating the Bp8 ascites sarcoma growing in mice. From sequential studies of the total number of cells together with the composition of cells in the cell cycle, the flow of cells through the cell cycle was calculated. A dose-dependent cell growth inhibition was found with almost immediate effect following the higher dose, while an inhibitory effect on cell growth with the lower dose was delayed 24 hours. The cell flow from the various phases of the cell cycle for the first 24.48 hours following administration of the lower dose, was increased from the G1 phase and mitosis, with normal flow from the S-phase and depressed outflow from the G2-phase. Thereafter the flow rates from all cell cycle phases were decreased. For the higher dose, the outflow rates from all phases of the cell cycle were depressed up to 72 hours. The maximum platination of DNA was found one hour after treatment. The results indicate that the mechanisms responsible for the passage through the G2 stage of the cell cycle are more sensitive to the treatment of CDDP than replicative DNA synthesis. This experimental system may be used as a basis for further mechanistic studies of the antitumor effect of anticancer drugs. PMID- 2519860 TI - An in vivo human tumor xenograft model of etoposide resistance. AB - HCT-116 and HCT-116/E represent human colon carcinoma lines characterized in vitro as sensitive and resistant, respectively, to etoposide. Using both subrenal capsule (src) and sc implants, we sought to develop in vivo tumor models of these cell lines. Src implantation of tumor fragments into athymic mice yielded reproducible growth (165-271%) for both tumor models during the 10-day assay period. The maximum therapeutic effects for etoposide on the preferred schedule (Days 1 and 5, ip) were (mean +/- SD) 78% +/- 10% tumor inhibition versus src HCT 116 compared to 45% +/- 14% tumor inhibition versus src HCT-116/E (p less than 0.001). The modest but significant differential sensitivity toward etoposide seen in the src tumor setting was not observed in the sc tumor models. Principally, this was due to the insensitivity of sc HCT-116 to etoposide, even when treatment was initiated one day post-implant. Interestingly, mitomycin C, included as a positive reference drug, was more active versus sc HCT-116/E than sc HCT-116. In summary, src tumor models for etoposide sensitivity and resistance have been developed as in vivo counterparts for cell lines with characterized differential sensitivity to etoposide in vitro. PMID- 2519861 TI - Hormones in chemotherapy for pancreatic cancer, chemoagents or carriers? AB - The pancreas, particularly when inflicted with cancer, shelters sex hormones and their receptors more abundantly than some reproductive organs. In the laboratory, the anti-androgen cyproterone inhibits tumour growth while the anti-estrogen tamoxifen exhibits no effect. However, it is thought that the lack of effect from tamoxifen was due to the absence of nuclear estrogen receptors in the laboratory animals, which does not obtain in the human pancreas. Thus at least 4 phase II clinical trials with tamoxifen have been completed for CA pancreas. All but one resulted in at least doubling the average survival. On the other hand, because androgen receptors have only recently been identified in human pancreas, no clinical trial with androgens has been done. Also, quite recently, it has been found that the cytotoxic steroid estramustine binds in the pancreas to a protein with an affinity many times higher than that between the estrogens and their binding protein. However, promising results with tamoxifen from the phase II trials and the rareness of acute side-effects from the anti-estrogen promote the furthering of investigation with the agent. It has also been suggested that tamoxifen, while an anti-cancer agent itself in the pancreas, can simultaneously serve as a target specific carrier for other cytotoxic drugs. PMID- 2519862 TI - Toxicity of intraperitoneally administered antitumour drugs in athymic rats. AB - The toxicity of eight anticancer drugs given intraperitoneally to athymic rats was investigated to define the maximum tolerable doses (MTD). Drugs were given once weekly. Toxicity was assessed as percentage loss of body weight (LBW%) or percentage toxic death rate (TDR%) during the first week after drug administration. LBW% and TDR% were significantly correlated, r = 0.58 p less than 0.00001. From the regression equation for the relationship between LBW% and TDR%, 10 percent TDR (LD10), usually regarded as equivalent to MTD in animals, was found to correspond to 14 percent LBW. From the individual regression equations for LBW% and dose for each of six drugs, MTDs were calculated to be as follows; doxorubicin 7 mg/kg, cyclophosphamide 100 mg/kg, mitomycin C 1.8 mg/kg, cisplatin 8 mg/kg, vindesine 0.8 mg/kg and vincristine 0.9 mg/kg. LD10 was found to be 40 mg/kg for both carmustine (BCNU) and etoposide. PMID- 2519863 TI - Brain death in moderately injured rat brains by in vivo P-31 NMR spectroscopy. AB - In the course of a systematic in vivo P-31 NMR study of moderately insulted rat brains, some brains died after such injury. Changes in high-energy phosphate metabolism of these brains after injury were rationalised by the aid of a model based on the depletion of an insoluble Pi pool followed by depletion of PCr and ATP pools. PMID- 2519864 TI - Evaluation of side effects of platinum complexes (CDDP, CBDCA, CHIP) on rat bone marrow. AB - The in vivo toxic actions of cis-dichloro-1, 1-cyclo-butane-dicarboxylate platinum (II): carboplatin (CBDCA), cis-diisopropyl-ammine-transdihydroxy dichloro platinum (IV) and iproplatin (CHIP) were compared with those of cis diamminedichloroplatinum (II): cisplatin (CDDP) on rat bone marrow. To elucidate the biochemical basis of side effects of platinum analogs, the protein and DNA content, thymidine kinase (TK) EC 2.7.1.21 activity and cellularity (MNC) were measured from the femoral bone marrow at 48 hours after i.v. single injection of these three compounds using equitoxic doses as fraction of LD50 (CDDP: 9, CHIP: 50, CBDCA: 80 mg/kg). Dose response studies showed that each drug depressed in dose dependent fashion the cellularity, DNA content and TK activity. As the I50 values indicated, the CHIP caused the most toxic effect in the bone marrow and the influence of CBDCA was the least. The nadir of biochemical alterations was observed 24-48 hours after drug administration. The recovery of bone marrow was completed 96 hours after the treatment. PMID- 2519865 TI - Reagin production in mice: effect of subcutaneous and oral sensitization with untreated bovine milk and homogenized bovine milk. AB - Subcutaneous and oral sensitization with untreated bovine milk and homogenized bovine milk in mice was analyzed in two different sensitization schemes--a low dose and a high dose scheme. Homologous murine passive cutaneous anaphylaxis test was used to measure the titres of reagins (IgE and IgG1). Subcutaneous and oral sensitization with low doses of homogenized milk induced production of higher titres of IgE than sensitization with high doses of homogenized milk. By contrast, sensitization with both low and high doses of untreated bovine milk resulted in very low or undetectable IgE titres. The results indicate that homogenization of milk increases the efficacy of inducing IgE production in mice. Some possible implications of these results with respect to clinical allergy are discussed. PMID- 2519866 TI - Jack fruit lectin binding pattern in benign and malignant lesions of the breast. AB - N-acetyl D-galactosamine specific lectin was isolated from Jack fruit (Artocarpus integrifolia) and conjugated to horse radish peroxidase type VI. The purified conjugate was used for the study of tissue binding properties on benign and malignant lesions of the breast using diaminobenzidine as substrate on dewaxed tissue sections. Forty mammary carcinomas, 10 cystic hyperplasias of the breast and 10 normal breast tissues were used for the study. Neoplastic cells showed increased affinity to the lectin. The lectin binding was focally strong in neoplastic cells compared to the normal as well as the hyperplastic tissues. The stroma of the cancer tissues showed an intense strong binding where elastosis was present. The use of the lectin as a histochemical reagent is discussed. PMID- 2519867 TI - Rhodium, iridium, copper and gold antitumor organometallic compounds (review). AB - Recent results on the antitumor activity of organometallic compounds of rhodium, iridium, copper and gold are reviewed. Coordination compounds of some organic ligands are also briefly mentioned. The most promising seem to be copper and gold complexes which exhibited remarkable activity against several tumor systems. PMID- 2519868 TI - A total body hyperthermia animal model for pharmacological studies. AB - Toxic side effects are the main drawback in localized and total body hyperthermia for the treatment of tumours. This paper reports a total body hyperthermia animal model which may be used as an experimental tool in the search for conditions or drugs capable of inhibiting the toxic effects of hyperthermia. PMID- 2519869 TI - Cancer induction in mice by 4-hydroxybenzenediazonium sulfate of the Agaricus xanthodermus mushroom. AB - 4-Hydroxybenzenediazonium sulfate (HBD) was administered to Swiss mice by subcutaneous injection at weekly intervals of two or 36 times at 10 or 2 micrograms per gram body weight, respectively. The HBD given 36 times induced tumors of the subcutis in 22% of females and in 22% of males. The corresponding tumor incidences in the untreated controls were 2% in females and 8% in males. Histopathologically, the neoplasms were classified as fibromas, fibrosarcomas, myxosarcomas and rhabdomyosarcomas. The HBD given two times was, however, without tumor-inducing effect. HBD is an ingredient of the Agaricus xanthodermus, a non cultivable unedible mushroom, which is closely related to the mushroom of commerce Agaricus bisporus. HBD is now the third compound of the diazonium class to exhibit carcinogenic activity. PMID- 2519871 TI - Tissue concentrations of doxorubicin in animal models with engrafted intraocular tumours. AB - The role of chemotherapy in the management of retinoblastoma remains unclear. In order to evaluate the responsiveness to conventional or experimental agents, a xenograft model had been developed, where human retinoblastoma is heterotransplanted to the anterior chambers of nude mouse eyes. Because doxorubicin had been found to be ineffective in therapeutic studies utilizing the model, experiments were conducted to evaluate the concentration of the drug in tissues, including intraocular engrafted tumour. The presence of doxorubicin was demonstrated in xenograft containing mouse eyes as well as in tumours of a comparable rabbit model. Distribution in extraocular tissues was consistent with previously published data. It is concluded that failure of response to doxorubicin in the xenograft model is not explained by lack of tumour penetration by the drug. PMID- 2519870 TI - Antitumor activity of orally administered streptococcal preparation, OK-432 on murine solid tumors and its absorption from the gut. AB - OK-432 is an immunopotentiator which is normally administered by injection. In the present study, the antitumor activity of orally administered OK-432 on various solid tumors and the absorption of OK-432 from the gut were studied. Orally administered OK-432 inhibited the growth of Meth-A and BAMC-1 fibrosarcomas which had been subcutaneously transplanted in BALB/c mice. Autoradiograms of mice which had been administered 14C-labelled OK-432 orally demonstrated the absorption of OK-432 from the gut, and about 6% of orally administered OK-432 was absorbed 24 hrs after its administration. Moreover, an immunofluorescent study using an anti-OK-432 antibody revealed specific fluorescence in the mesenteric lymph node of mice which had been orally administered with OK-432. These results suggest that oral administration of OK 432 may be a beneficial immunotherapy. PMID- 2519872 TI - Development of a human xenograft model for the evaluation of monoclonal antibody L6-mitomycin immunoconjugates. AB - The human lung carcinoma H2981, was characterized as a preclinical model for evaluating immunoconjugates consisting of monoclonal antibody (MAb) L6 and drugs of the mitomycin (MMC) chemotype. The H2981 tumor, implanted subcutaneously in athymic, mice grew progressively in greater than 95% of recipients. Spontaneous regressions of established tumors were not observed. The administration of tolerated doses of MMC resulted in dose-dependent delays in tumor growth. The incidence of tumor regressions was low indicating the potential to observe increased efficacy with immunoconjugates. The antitumor effects of MMC were independent of the schedule and route of administration. MAb L6 delayed the outgrowth of tumors when administered 24 h after tumor implant. Antitumor activity was not observed when MAb L6 was administered to mice bearing established tumors. The efficacy of mixtures of MAb L6 and optimal doses of MMC was not significantly better than that of optimal doses of MMC given alone. PMID- 2519874 TI - Modification of the behavioural effects of amineptine after acute, subacute and chronic administration of phenobarbital in mice. AB - In an open-field test, mice that were given an acute treatment with 20 mg/kg ip phenobarbital and/or 10-20 mg/kg ip amineptine showed an increase in locomotor activity and rearing. Tolerance to the subacute or chronic effects of phenobarbital, but not to those of amineptine, was found. After subacute or chronic treatment with phenobarbital in association with amineptine, a significant decrease in the stimulating effect of amineptine was observed, as compared to single or associated acute treatments. These data demonstrate that, after subacute or chronic administration of phenobarbital and amineptine, an interaction occurs, and they outline the importance of enzyme induction in the metabolism of amineptine. PMID- 2519873 TI - In vivo antitumor activity of 4-amino 4-methyl 2-pentyne 1-al, an inhibitor of aldehyde dehydrogenase. AB - 4-amino-4-methyl-2-pentyne-1-al (AMPAL), a new irreversible inhibitor of aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) has been assayed for its in vitro and in vivo antitumor activity. In vitro, AMPAL inhibits the proliferation and the ALDH activity of L1210 and RBL5 cell lines. In vivo, AMPAL significantly increases the mean survival time of mice i.p. grafted with leukemia (L1210, P815, MBL2, EL4, RBL5 cell lines) or carcinoma cells (Krebs cell line), without haematopoetic toxicity. No carcinostatic effect was observed against the P388 leukemia and the 3LL Lewis lung carcinoma. A possible relationship between the ALDH isoenzyme activity of the tumor and its sensitivity to AMPAL is discussed in the light of previous reports concerning the role of aldehydes in cell growth control. PMID- 2519875 TI - Noble PRST-1 Ca prostate adenocarcinoma study on noble rats: preliminary study on new androgen sensitive tumor. AB - The Nb rat prostatic adenocarcinoma model has served as an animal model for testing various chemotherapeutic agents. Herein this preliminary report, the tumor Nb PRST-1 Ca was evaluated in 25 animals with testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, orchiectomized and control treatments. Tumor growth curves were determined and show a significant difference on day 13 (T-test) between the control group and treatment groups. Metastases were found in the lungs of all animals and a remarkable rounding of the liver was noted in the androgen treatment groups. PMID- 2519878 TI - Induction of antiparasite activity by pine cone lignin-related substances. AB - Pretreatment with two distinct lignin-related antitumor substances extracted from pine cone of Pinus parviflora Sieb. et Zucc. protected infant mice from Hymenolepis nana (Cestoda) infection. Subcutaneous administration of these fractions (10 mg/kg) to 1 week old mice evoked strong protective immunity against oral infection by Hymenolepis nana eggs. Significant antiparasite effects were also induced in 4 week old mice by intraperitoneal or oral administration of these fractions. These fractions had more potent antiparasite activity than pine cone extracts with lower antitumor and antiviral activity, and various polysaccharides derived from plants and bacteria. PMID- 2519877 TI - Effects of polyunsaturated fatty acids on human and rat cells. In vitro versus in vivo experiments. AB - Human infant skin fibroblasts and liver cells were subcultured with 250 microM PUFA (polyunsaturated fatty acid), and primary cultures of glial brain cells from new-born rats with 100 microM; oleic acid was added to controls. Minimum essential medium (MEM) supplemented with bovine serum was used as a reference. During the short-term experiment (18-24 h), control liver cells showed a regular increase in protein level, while protein increment was more rapid in linoleic and especially in arachidonic acid-treated cells, but only for the first 3 hours. During the long-term experiment (7 d), control skin fibroblasts showed a faster growth rate (increase in number of cells) than reference or fibroblasts cultured with the added PUFAs. Lipid droplets were seen in the PUFA-treated liver cells and skin fibroblasts, and ultrastructural modifications were observed in fibroblasts, but without growth rate alteration. During the long-term experiment (2 w), control glial brain cells showed faster protein increment (measuring growth rate) than PUFA-treated cells, particularly than arachidonic acid-treated cells. HMGR (3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase) activity, determined after 6 h (liver cells) or 1 and 2 w (brain cells) of culture, was low in controls and reference, whilst higher in PUFA-treated-cells, and was especially high in arachidonic acid-treated brain cells. The present study indicates than the high HMGR activity may correspond to cultures of cells rapidly stopped in their protein increment, and to cultures of cells showing a slow rate of proliferation. This contrasts with results obtained from in vivo experiments; it also emphasizes the high mevalonate (MVA) level as a possible sign of nutritional medium imbalance.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2519876 TI - The antitumor effects of IFN- beta against human renal cell carcinoma in athymic nude mice. AB - IFN-beta was more active than recombinant interferon-alpha (rIFN-alpha) and interferon-gamma (rIFN-gamma) in a human renal cell carcinoma transplanted in nude mice. In 3 out of 5 mice, the tumor completely disappeared and viable tumor cells were not observed at a daily dose of 5 x 10(5) U/mouse. Combination with anti-asialo GM1 antibody did not influence the tumor growth inhibition by IFN beta. Mononuclear cells around damaged cancer cells were found not to be macrophages. Although the role of mononuclear cells remained unknown, the antitumor activity of IFN-beta seemed to depend on its direct cellular action. IFN-beta may be a useful agent in some renal cell carcinomas. PMID- 2519879 TI - Kinetics of cell replication in the uterine cervix. VIII. Quantitation of chronologic events in proliferating loci. AB - The frequency and the topographic distribution of DNA replicating cervical basal squamous cells (as deduced by 3H-thymidine in vivo administration up to 8 hours before sacrifice) was studied in 70,000 basal cells in 70 C57B1 mice. While the number of labelled basal cells/animal was similar in those injected only once, a significantly higher number of labelled basal cells was recorded in animals injected twice or three times. Following one single injection, 30% (8 h previously) and 31% (1 h previously) of the DNA replicating basal cells occurred in pairs or in loci of three, four or more labelled cells. After repeated injections, the rates were 49% for those animals injected twice before sacrifice and 47% for those injected three times. Thus repeated injections resulted in a significantly increased number of loci of three, four or more DNA replicating basal cells when compared to those injected only once. The present results suggest that there is a chronological asynchrony in the DNA replication of proliferating basal cells-loci of the uterine cervix. PMID- 2519880 TI - Ultrastructural localization of a new surface membrane antigen (SQM1) related to squamous differentiation. AB - Normal squamous epithelial cells readily undergo terminal differentiation in culture and are commonly used in differentiation studies. Several intracellular markers of squamous differentiation such as keratin, involucrin, transglutaminase and cholesterol sulfate have been well-studied and described by other workers. We have recently reported a surface membrane antigen in squamous carcinoma of the head and neck antigen in squamous carcinoma of the head and neck which is recognized by a murine monoclonal antibody SQMI. In this paper, we present our studies on the ultrastructural localization of SQMI antigen in cultured squamous epithelial cells using gold-labelled antibody. The cells studied included both normal and cancer cells at different degrees of differentiation. Under both transmission and scanning electron microscopy examination, the SQMI antigen was localized at the membrane surface of cultured cells, particularly at sites of cell-cell interdigitation. No association with desmosomal structure was observed in any of the specimens examined. There was however an association of SQMI antigen with microvilli of cell membrane. No non-specific cytoplasmic localization of SQMI antigen was observed. The intensity of SQM1 antigen revealed by gold-labelling appeared to have a positive correlation with the degree of differentiation of the cells in culture. PMID- 2519882 TI - Antitumor activity of the proteinase inhibitor tetra-p-amidinophenoxyneopentane in a nude mouse model of human melanoma. AB - An aromatic poly-amidine (tetra-p-amidinophenoxyneopentane, TAPP-Br) exhibiting anti-proteinase activity and known to exert antitumor activity in vitro was analysed for its ability to inhibit the in vivo growth of a human melanoma cell line transplanted in nude mice. 5 X 10(6) melanoma cells were injected subcutaneously in groups of nude mice and treatment with TAPP-Br was performed (0.125-1 mg/0.2 ml injections, repeated three times at the beginning of the experiment and after 20 days). After 25 days tumors displaying a volume of 0.9 1.8 cm3 were detectable in control untreated mice. Mice treated with TAPP-Br on the other hand did not develop sizable tumors or consistently developed tumors of significantly smaller sizes. Despite these therapeutic effects, significant chronic toxicity of the compound was observed when administered at higher dosage (500-1000 micrograms). These side effects, which may hamper the therapeutic use of TAPP-Br, are likely to be circumvented by alternative routes of administration or by vehiculation into liposomes. These alternative strategies of treatment are currently investigated. PMID- 2519881 TI - Antitumor effect of KW2149, a new mitomycin derivative, administered by different modalities. AB - The effectiveness of a new mitomycin derivative, KW2149, against human tumors was evaluated by the 4 days subrenal capsule assay (SRCA) and the nude mice screening assay (NMSA). Evaluation by the SRCA showed a 50% response rate at a maximum dose of 3.8 mg/kg for 3 consecutive days. When evaluated by NMSA, the response rate was 100, 75 and 25% after the intermittent administration of 7.5, 5.6 and 4.5 mg/kg (q4dx3) respectively. Although the efficacy was reduced when mice were administered a single dose equivalent to the intermittent one, the new analog was along more effective than MMC administered by either modality. PMID- 2519883 TI - In vivo effect of dietary factors on the molecular action of aflatoxin B1: role of copper on the catalytic activity of liver microsome. AB - Wealing rats were kept on a synthetic copper-free diet for 9-13 weeks and subsequently on the same diet but supplemented with copper at different levels for 2 weeks. The ability of liver microsomes to catalyze reactions of aflatoxin B1 leading to its activation and DNA adduct formation was measured after each period of experimental feeding. An increased molecular reactivity of aflatoxin B1 was evident during deficiency such that the degree of its conversion to its reactive metabolite and subsequent DNA adduct formation was higher with microsomes from copper deficient rats as compared to rats maintained on a normal supply of copper. These activities of microsomes returned to normal after supplementation of the diet with a small level of copper. The results emphasize the role of copper in the activation, and hence in modulating the carcinogenicity of aflatoxin B1. PMID- 2519884 TI - Assessment of the role of platelet-activating factor in an animal model of inflammatory bowel disease. AB - Using a rat model of chronic colitis, the role of PAF-acether as a mediator of intestinal inflammation was assessed. Rats were treated with a specific PAF acether antagonist, BN52021, during the first 4 days after induction of colitis, or during the period of 4-7 days after induction of colitis. The effects of treatment with BN52021 were compared to those of treatment with 5-aminosalicylic acid. BN52021 and 5-aminosalicyclic acid were without significant effect on colonic damage score when administered intracolonically on days 1-4 after induction of colitis. However, when given on days 4-7 after induction of colitis, both drugs significantly accelerated the healing of ulcers and reduced the incidence of adhesions and diarrhea. Intraperitoneal administration of BN52021 also resulted in a significant reduction of colonic damage scores, while administration of 5-aminosalicyclic acid via this route was without significant effect. Using an in vitro superfusion system, the effects of PAF-acether on contractility of segments of ascending colon were assessed. Tissue segments from normal rats contracted to doses of PAF-acether as low as 0.5 pg. However, non inflamed segments of ascending colon from rats in which colitis was induced 2 weeks earlier were relatively insensitive to PAF-acether. The results of the present study demonstrate that PAF-acether is unlikely to play an important role in the acute inflammatory response in this model, but may be important in the prolongation of inflammation and ulceration in this model. The studies on contractility of ascending colon suggest that changes in tissue sensitivity to PAF-acether may occur as a consequence of inflammation. PMID- 2519886 TI - Phospholipase A2 activity in platelets. Immuno-purification and localization of the enzyme in rat platelets. AB - A comparative study on phospholipase A2 activity in platelet lysates from various species was carried out using identical assay conditions with phosphatidylethanolamine as substrate. Platelet phospholipase A2, both when expressed as activity per ml blood and as specific activity in KCl extracts, was low in human, cow, pig and goat. Moderate activities, in increasing order, were found in sheep, horse and rabbit, while rats showed by far the highest activity. In the latter four species total lysate activity was recovered in 1 M KCl extracts, suggesting that the enzyme occurs either in soluble form or as a peripheral membrane-associated protein. Immune cross-reactivity with monoclonal antibodies against rat liver mitochondrial phospholipase A2 was studied in dot blot and monoclonal antibody-Sepharose binding experiments. Only sheep and rat platelet extracts contained cross-reactive phospholipase(s) A2. Immuno-affinity chromatography of rat platelet extracts indicated virtually complete binding of total phospholipase A2 activity and yielded pure enzyme in a single purification step. Enzyme visualization by immunogold electron microscopy showed a predominant localization in the matrix of alpha-granules. PMID- 2519885 TI - Biologically active ether lipids: incorporation of long-chain precursors into 1(3),2-diacylglycero-3(1)-O-4'-(N,N,N-trimethyl)homoserines and other lipids of Chlorella fusca. AB - The lipids of Chlorella fusca are composed of the ester lipids typical of photosynthetically active cells. In addition, there occurs a class of less common ether lipids, the biologically active 1(3),2-diacylglycero-3(1)-O-4'-(N,N,N- trimethyl)homoserines, at a level of about 1.3% of total lipids. The acyl moieties of the total lipids include saturated as well as mono-, di- and tri unsaturated species with chain lengths of 16 and 18 carbon atoms, the major constituents being palmitic and oleic acids. In both the diacylglycerophosphocholines, i.e., the major class of ester phospholipids, and the diacylglycero-4'-O-(N,N,N-trimethyl)homoserines palmitic acid is located predominantly at position 1 of the glycerol backbone, whereas oleic acid is almost equally distributed between positions 1 and 2; palmitoleic and polyunsaturated fatty acids are esterified preferentially at position 2. Incubation of C. fusca cultures with 14C-labeled fatty acids leads to their rapid incorporation into various lipid classes. Oleic and palmitic acids are incorporated at a faster rate than stearic acid (18:1 greater than 16:0 much greater than 18:0). 1,2- and 1,3-Diacylglycerols are the most prominent intermediates of early metabolism of the exogenous fatty acids. In the course of time, a steady decrease of radioactive 1,2-diacylglycerols is observed that is accompanied by an increase in labeled triacylglycerols, diacylglycerophosphocholines, and diacylglycero-O-(N,N,N-trimethyl)homoserines. The stereospecific distribution of acyl moieties in the diacylglycero-O-(N,N,N trimethyl)homoserines in C. fusca indicates that these ether lipids are derived from 1,2-diacylglycerol intermediates. This notion is supported by the finding that during incubation with radioactively labeled fatty acids the formation of diacylglycero-O-(N,N,N-trimethyl)homoserines parallels the biosynthesis of both diacylglycerophosphocholines and diacylglycerophosphoethanolamines, two classes of phospholipids which are known to be derived from 1,2-diacylglycerols. The mechanism of the formation of the ether bond, however, is as yet unknown. Incubation of C. fusca cultures with 14C-labeled fatty acids or alcohols leads to the formation of fair proportions of wax esters that are labeled in both the acyl and the alkyl moieties, indicating that in these algae fatty acids and alcohols are interconverted. 14C-Labeled long-chain alcohols are not incorporated into the alkyl moieties of ether lipids, whereas labeled 1-O-alkylglycerols are used, though to a very small extent, as precursors of ether phospholipids. PMID- 2519887 TI - Metabolism of platelet activating factor (PAF) and related ether lipids by neonatal rat myocytes. AB - Suspensions of neonatal rat myocytes were used to investigate the metabolism of [3H]PAF (1-alkyl-2-acetyl-(sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine) (GPC] and [3H]alkyllyso GPC. [3H]Alkylacyl-GPC consisting of molecular species with four or more double bonds (87%) was the major metabolite formed when either [3H]PAF (4 x 10(-6) - 4 x 10(-9) M) or [3H]alkyllyso-GPC (2 x 10(-7) M) was the precursor. However, substantial amounts of [3H]alkyllyso-GPC (mostly in the media) were also generated from [3H]PAF during the early periods of the incubations. At 2 x 10(-7) M or higher concentrations of either [3H]PAF or [3H]alkyllyso-GPC, [3H]alkylglycerols were also formed (4-12% of the total radioactivity). The [3H]alkylglycerols appear to be produced from [3H]alkyllyso-GPC through the combined actions of lysophospholipase D and a phosphatase. Pretreatment of neonatal rat myocytes with phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride partially blocked the deacetylation of [3H]PAF and decreased both the formation and subsequent acylation of [3H]alkyllyso-GPC in intact cells. Phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride also significantly inhibited the activity of cytosolic acetylhydrolase, but it had no direct effect on the microsomal transacylase in vitro. Our data demonstrate that the metabolism of PAF and alkyllyso-GPC by neonatal rat myocytes is qualitatively, but not quantitatively, similar to what occurs in other cell types. In addition, when [3H]alkylacetylglycerol was the precursor, 75% of the label appeared as alkylglycerols in the neonatal rat myocytes, but [3H]PAF was not detected. Therefore, it appears that the de novo pathway via the dithiothreitol-insensitive cholinephosphotransferase step does not contribute to the biosynthesis of PAF in neonatal rat myocytes. PMID- 2519888 TI - Platelet-activating factor-induced calcium mobilization in human platelets and neutrophils: effects of PAF-acether antagonists. AB - Since one of the first measurable events that occurs as a consequence of receptor mediated cell activation is an increase in the cytosolic free calcium concentration, the calcium-selective fluorescent indicator fura-2 was employed to monitor increases in cytosolic calcium following PAF-acether stimulation of human neutrophils and platelets. In neutrophils, approximately 70% of the increase in cytosolic calcium was attributed to release from an intracellular source and 30% could be attributed to enhanced influx through the plasma membrane. In platelets, only 30% was released from an intracellular pool and the remainder reflected enhanced influx of calcium. In both cell types, the intracellular source of calcium was a non-mitochondrial, vesicular compartment, probably endoplasmic reticulum. The ability of different compounds to antagonize the PAF-acether induced increase in cytosolic calcium was investigated using quin2 and fura-2 as calcium indicators. In decreasing order of potency, the following PAF-acether antagonists inhibited the change in platelet cytosolic free calcium elicited by 10 nM PAF-acether: L-652,731, kadsurenone, triazolam, diltiazem and alprazolam. L 652,731, kadsurenone, triazolam and diltiazem were also tested in neutrophils stimulated by 10 nM PAF-acether. While the antagonists were 7-20 times less active in neutrophils as compared to platelets, they all inhibited the rise in free calcium with the same order of potency in both cell types. Each of the antagonists was PAF-acether-specific, inhibited both the rate and magnitude of calcium mobilization and appeared to exhibit competitive antagonism. These data demonstrate that calcium mobilization can provide a rapid, sensitive and quantitative method by which to evaluate agonists such as PAF-acether and PAF acether antagonists such as kadsurenone in different cell types. PMID- 2519889 TI - PAF/cytokine auto-generated feedback networks in microvascular immune injury: consequences in shock, ischemia and graft rejection. AB - The catastrophe theory evolved by Thom and Zeeman proposes a mathematical definition for the abrupt or 'catastrophic' changes that can suddenly occur in normally well-ordered and smooth-running systems. We have integrated this theory with our own PAF/cytokine feedback network hypothesis to explain the control and dysfunction of the inflammatory response. This process involves the activation of cells and factors such as proteases, and is coordinated by mediators such as PAF, cytokines and growth factors, minute amounts of which can prime cells to respond in an enhanced manner to subsequent agonistic stimuli. PAF and certain cytokines also possess the unique property of being able to induce the release of each other and their own generation in vivo. This 'singularity' may enable a self generating feedback network to become established. The priming ability of these mediators indicates the extreme sensitivity of the inflammatory process and importance of a homeostatic equilibrium between the vectors involved in the priming and feedback processes and internal suppressive mechanisms. In pathological conditions, one can consider the phenomenon of PAF and cytokine autogeneration as a 'fold' in the feedback network and an expression of the singularity characteristic of the catastrophe hypothesis. This may lead to systemic toxicity and microcirculatory collapse, a characteristic feature of shock, sepsis, asthma, ischemia and graft rejection. A combination of drugs antagonizing the various feedback components may inhibit this catastrophic process and thus provide more successful therapy of these conditions. PMID- 2519890 TI - Leukotrienes and the immune system. PMID- 2519891 TI - Involvement of PAF-acether in the anaphylactic shock in the rat. AB - In normal Wistar rats, SDZ 63-675 (1.2 mg/kg) inhibited hypotension and hemoconcentration induced by PAF-acether (0.2-0.8 micrograms/kg.min). These effects of PAF-acether were not modified by ketoprofen (3 mg/kg). Only the hemoconcentration was reduced by BW755C (40 mg/kg). Part of the vascular effects of PAF-acether in rats would thus depend on the release of lipoxygenase products. In sensitized rats, SDZ 63-675 (1.2 mg/kg) increased the survival rate, reduced the vascular collapse and suppressed the hemoconcentration induced by intravenous injection of the antigen. BW755C (40 mg/kg) increased the survival rate and slightly reduced the vascular collapse. This anaphylactic shock was neither modified by ketoprofen (3 mg/kg), acetylsalicylic acid (100-200 mg/kg) and indometacin (3-6 mg/kg) nor by the association of methysergide (3 mg/kg), metiamide (35 mg/kg) and mepyramine (3 mg/kg). The inhibitory effect of SDZ 63 675 on the anaphylactic shock was not affected by the association with methysergide, mepyramine and metiamide or with indometacin. It was enhanced by acetylsalicylic acid. Injected simultaneously, SDZ 63-675 and BW755C suppressed the vascular collapse induced by the antigenic challenge. The main vasoactive factors responsible for this anaphylactic shock in the rat would thus be, in decreasing order, PAF-acether, leukotrienes and prostanoids. The association of mepyramine, methysergide and metiamide inhibited hypotension and hemoconcentration induced by the infusion of dextran. Since SDZ 63-675 had no influence on the effects of dextran, it is concluded that dextran did not release significant amounts of PAF-acether from mast cells. PMID- 2519892 TI - Direct evidence of elevated levels of circulating platelet-activating factor in a patient with disseminated intravascular coagulation syndrome. PMID- 2519893 TI - Platelet-activating factor (PAF) antagonistic actions of two new analogs of tetrahydrofurans. AB - Platelet-activating factor (PAF) has been implicated as a mediator involved in the pathogenesis of several types of inflammatory and shock states. The following group of experiments were designed to examine the effects of two new PAF receptor antagonists termed JS-1 and JS-3. The chemical structures of the two compounds were synthesized based on computer modeling of PAF and previously reported PAF receptor antagonists (e.g., tetrahydrofurans). Both JS-1 (1.3 mumols/kg) and JS-3 (9.5 mumols/kg) were found to significantly reverse PAF-induced (0.3 microgram/kg) hypotension in the rat when compared to their respective vehicles. In washed rabbit platelets, pretreatment with JS-1 (10 microM) and JS-3 (60 microM) inhibited aggregation induced by PAF at concentrations from 185 pM to 18.5 nM. These data indicate that both JS-1 and JS-3 are effective receptor antagonists of platelet-activating factor, and that computer modeling of molecular structures can be an important tool in developing analogs of known mediators of circulatory disease. PMID- 2519894 TI - Guanine nucleotides and fluoride enhance carbachol-mediated arachidonic acid release from phosphatidylinositol. Evidence for involvement of GTP-binding protein in phospholipase A2 activation. AB - Release of arachidonic acid (AA) from 1-stearoyl-2-[14C]arachidonyl glycerophosphoinositol (PI) by plasma membrane-bound enzyme(s) is a calcium dependent reaction and is markedly activated at 4 x 10(-4) M CaCl2. In the presence of Ca2+, the agonist of the cholinergic receptor (carbachol) enhances, in a dose-related manner, AA release. Moreover, GTP and its non-hydrolysable analogs GTP gamma S and GppNHp and also NaF additionally increase the carbachol mediated liberation of AA from PI. On the contrary, in the absence of Ca2+ carbachol and GTP gamma S have no stimulatory effect on AA release. Guanosine-5' O-2-thiodiphosphate GDP gamma S, which inhibits the function of GTP-binding proteins, also suppresses carbachol-mediated activation of AA release from PI. The stimulatory effect of carbachol and guanine nucleotides was observed exclusively in the brain plasma membrane (there was no effect on mitochondria, microsome and cytosolic enzymes). Quinacrine, the inhibitor of phospholipase A2, completely inhibits carbachol- and guanine nucleotide-activated AA release and greatly (by about 60-70%) decreases Ca(2+)-dependent AA liberation from phosphatidylinositol. These results indicate that GTP-binding protein(s) are involved in the regulation of carbachol-mediated AA release. The main pool of this acid is liberated from phosphatidylinositol by phospholipase A2 and only a small pool of AA may be released indirectly as the result of PI hydrolysis by sequential action of phospholipase C and diacylglycerol lipase. PMID- 2519895 TI - Prevention of Ca(2+)-induced hepatocyte plasma membrane bleb formation by inhibitors of eicosanoid synthesis. AB - Isolated rat hepatocytes were incubated in the presence of Ca2+ ionophore A23187 to induce the formation of plasma membrane blebs which appear to be a consequence of toxic or ischaemic cell injury. When incubated in the presence of both A23187 and an inhibitor of phospholipase A2, bleb formation was limited to that observed in the absence of A23187. Inhibitors of cyclooxygenase or thromboxane synthetase had similar effects. Incubation of isolated hepatocytes with individual eicosanoids showed that thromboxane B2 caused the formation of many plasma membrane blebs, prostaglandin E2 fewer than thromboxane B2 but more than prostacyclin which did not enhance bleb formation. These observations support the idea that Ca(2+)-induced cell injury and death may be mediated via a Ca(2+) activated phospholipase A2, arachidonic acid release and eicosanoid formation. PMID- 2519896 TI - Possible physiological role of myocardial fatty acid binding protein in phospholipid biosynthesis. AB - Accumulation of free fatty acids and their esters resulting from the degradation of membrane phospholipids is one of the major causes for the myocardial dysfunction during ischemia and reperfusion. In this communication, we have studied the possible physiological role played by fatty acid binding protein (FABP) in stimulating key enzymes involved in phospholipid biosynthesis. Purified rat heart FABP bound a maximum of either 2 mol of [1- 14C]palmitoyl coenzyme A (CoA), oleoyl CoA, or oleic acid per mol of FABP as observed by Scatchard analysis. FABP caused a threefold increase in the incorporation of [1- 14C]palmitoyl CoA into phosphatidic acid as compared to only a 1.5-fold increase by bovine serum albumin (BSA). Myocardial FABP also enhanced acyl CoA monoacylglycerophosphorylcholine acyl transferase minimally at a substrate concentration (greater than 200 microM), the activity of this enzyme was enhanced 4.5- and 2-fold by FABP and BSA, respectively. The maximum stimulation of the enzyme activity took place at the fatty acyl CoA concentration where inhibition of the enzyme activity is usually observed due to the surfactive property of acyl CoAs. These results thus indicate that under abnormal pathophysiological conditions such as ischemia, when acyl CoA concentration increases, FABP may protect acyl CoA monoacylglycerophosphorylcholine acyl transferase as well as stimulate glycerophosphate acyl transferase to limit the loss of membrane phospholipids, suggesting a possible role of FABP in phospholipid biosynthesis. PMID- 2519897 TI - Inhibitory effects of dexamethasone in endotoxic shock and its relation to PAF acether synthesis in the gastrointestinal tract and lung. AB - Endotoxic shock is accompanied by significant increases in PAF-acether synthesis, particularly by the lung. The onset of tissue damage and increases in vascular permeability in the gastrointestinal tract correlate temporally with the changes in PAF-acether synthesis and have previously been shown to be inhibited by PAF acether antagonists. In the present study, the effects of pretreatment with dexamethasone on endotoxin-induced hemoconcentration and hypotension were examined in the rat. Furthermore, the effects of dexamethasone on PAF-acether synthesis and gastrointestinal vascular permeability following administration of endotoxin were also studied. Pretreatment with dexamethasone resulted in a significant attenuation of endotoxin-induced hemoconcentration, hypotension and damage in the duodenum and stomach. Dexamethasone also significantly reduced PAF acether synthesis by the lung. However, dexamethasone pretreatment had no significant effect on endotoxin-induced increases in PAF-acether release and vascular permeability in the gastrointestinal tissues. The mechanism of the protective actions of dexamethasone may be related to inhibition of the release of PAF-acether from the lung. PAF released from gastrointestinal tissues likely contributes little to the systemic disturbances in endotoxic shock. PMID- 2519898 TI - Platelet-activating factor production occurs through stimulation of cholinergic and dopaminergic receptors in the chick retina. AB - In previous work we showed that platelet-activating factor (PAF) was produced upon stimulation of the chick retina with acetylcholine (ACh) and dopamine (DA), via a dithiothreitol-insensitive cholinephosphotransferase (DTT-CPT). Other neurotransmitters were ineffective. Since ACh and DA stimulated PAF production at different stages of development, we advanced the hypothesis that selected cholinergic and dopaminergic receptors were involved. In this paper we demonstrate that only muscarinic or D2 (and not D1 and nicotinic) receptor stimulation induced PAF production in the chick retina either before or after hatching. Moreover, our data show that PAF production was completely prevented by blockage of these receptors by specific antagonists. These data further substantiate the hypothesis that PAF synthesis could be physiologically associated with synapse stimulation. PMID- 2519900 TI - Elevated plasma levels of platelet-activating factor (PAF) in breast cancer patients with hypercalcemia. AB - Peripheral plasma concentrations of PAF were measured in patients with benign and malignant tumors of the breast, and in healthy female controls with a very sensitive PAF assay. The mean values +/- SEM were significantly higher in the malignant group than in healthy controls (1070 +/- 111 fmol/ml vs. 142 +/- 12 fmol/ml, P less than 0.01) and patients with benign tumors of the breast (1070 +/ 111 fmol/ml vs. 208 +/- 16 fmol/ml). Patients with malignant tumors of the breast and hypercalcemia contributed predominantly to the higher values of PAF (1500 +/- 167 fmol/l). The high levels of PAF were not found to be correlated to the clinical and histopathological data. The surgical removal of the tumor had little effect on the plasma concentration of PAF. In contrast, hypercalcemic patients showed an increase, although not significant, in plasma PAF levels after the surgical operation. PMID- 2519899 TI - Aspirin, platelets and prevention of vascular disease. AB - Aspirin inhibits thromboxane and prostaglandin formation in platelets and in vascular cells. It prevents platelet aggregation by irreversible acetylation of cyclooxygenase, a key enzyme in arachidonic acid metabolism. On the basis of its antiplatelet effect, aspirin has been assessed during the past two decades in patients with a history of myocardial infarction, stroke, transient ischemic attack or unstable angina. A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials of long-term aspirin treatment for the secondary prevention of vascular disease indicated that aspirin (300-1500 mg daily) significantly reduced fatal and non fatal vascular events. More recently aspirin (160 mg daily) produced a significant reduction in hospital vascular mortality and in non-fatal events in patients with suspected acute myocardial infarction. The combination of aspirin and streptokinase was significantly better than either drug alone. On the other hand, two primary prevention trials of aspirin in healthy doctors did not show any modification of vascular mortality despite an overall reduction of non-fatal myocardial infarction. Resolution of some problems related to the mechanism of action of aspirin and to selection of trial populations will possibly increase the benefit/risk ratio of aspirin treatment for the prevention of vascular disease. PMID- 2519901 TI - Action of platelet-activating factor (PAF) antagonists on the bronchopulmonary effects of PAF in the guinea-pig. AB - Intravenous injection of BN 52021 in anesthetized guinea-pigs, 5 min before challenge, inhibited in a dose-dependent fashion with an IC50 of 0.90 mg/kg the bronchoconstriction induced by PAF (60 ng/kg i.v.). However, BN 52021 did not prevent the leukopenia following PAF injection but significantly inhibited the thrombocytopenia induced by PAF. The dioxolan compound, BN 52111, dose dependently reduced the bronchoconstriction (IC50 = 0.27 mg/kg) and at doses higher than 1 mg/kg partially antagonized the decrease in the number of circulating platelets and leukocytes induced by PAF. BN 52115 also markedly inhibited the bronchoconstriction (IC50 = 0.36 mg/kg) as well as the thrombocytopenia induced by PAF, but was without significant effect on the leukopenia. These results demonstrate that the two dioxolan compounds, BN 52111 and BN 52115, are more potent than BN 52021 in inhibiting the in vivo bronchopulmonary alterations induced by PAF. Since these alterations are related to the activation of platelets by the autacoid, these blood elements are probably the targets of BN 52111 and BN 52115. Injection of PAF (10 and 100 ng) via the pulmonary artery of ventilated and perfused guinea-pig lungs induced dose dependent increases in pulmonary inflation pressure (PIP) and pulmonary perfusion pressure (PPP), associated with a dose-dependent release of thromboxane B2 (TxB2). Addition of BN 52021, BN 52111 or BN 52115 (0.1, 1 or 10 microM) to the perfusion medium, 15 min before challenge, dose-dependently inhibited the bronchopulmonary effects of PAF. Although BN 52111 was the more potent in inhibiting the PAF-induced increase in PIP, BN 52021 was the more active with respect to the PAF-evoked generation of TxB2, suggesting that the two phenomena are not directly related. PMID- 2519902 TI - Dietary salt, blood pressure and circulating levels of 1-O-hexadecyl-2-acetyl-sn glycero-3-phosphocholine in patients with essential hypertension. AB - The effects of dietary salt on circulating levels of 1-O-hexadecyl-2-acetyl-sn glycero-3-phosphocholine (C16 PAF) in patients with essential hypertension were studied by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry with negative ion chemical ionization. Circulating levels of C16 PAF in patients with essential hypertension (18.1 +/- 5.3 pg/ml, n = 16) were not changed compared with those in normotensive subjects (17.2 +/- 7.2 pg/ml, n = 14). Although changes in circulating levels of C16 PAF were small with changes in dietary salt, net changes in circulating C16 PAF levels significantly and positively correlated with net changes in mean arterial blood pressure (r = 0.47, P less than 0.05). Changes in C16 PAF levels also correlated with changes in creatinine clearance (r = 0.55, P less than 0.05). However, changes in C16 PAF levels did not correlate with changes in plasma sodium concentration, plasma chloride concentration and plasma volume. These results indicate that C16 PAF plays an antihypertensive role and this may be reflected as small changes in circulating levels of C16 PAF. PMID- 2519904 TI - Management of hirsutism. PMID- 2519903 TI - RP 55778, a PAF receptor antagonist, prevents and reverses LPS-induced hemoconcentration and TNF release. AB - Platelet-activating factor (PAF) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) are present in the plasma of animals injected with endotoxin (LPS). Furthermore, when exogenously administered to animals, PAF and TNF induce similar pathological effects. Thus, in order to explore a possible link between these two factors, the effects of a PAF receptor antagonist, RP 55778, and a glucocorticoid, dexamethasone, were studied on LPS-induced hemoconcentration in rats and on the release of TNF induced by exposing isolated murine macrophages to LPS. RP55778 administered either before or after LPS inhibited these endotoxin effects whereas dexamethasone was effective only when given prior to the LPS challenge. Additionally, in murine macrophages the strong TNF mRNA signal induced by LPS was abolished by RP 55778 and dexamethasone treatment. These results indicate that PAF and TNF can mediate the functional manifestations associated with endotoxemia and only RP 55778 appears to show potential for activity against an already established LPS response. PMID- 2519905 TI - [Clinical studies on the effect of contact at the non-working side on chewing movements]. AB - In recent years, TMJ dysfunction is reported to be increasing, but at present its etiology is not clear now. We have been studying the chewing movements, which are the most important functional mandibular movements. The possibility is indicated that the interference at the non-working side of lateral movement have a harmful effect on the functional occlusion system. In this study, the effect of the interference at the non-working side on chewing movements was investigated. 30 people were selected as the interference group with the interference at the non working side of lateral movement, and 10 people without that interference as the control group. the interference group was divided into two groups, interference normal group without TMJ dysfunction and interference abnormal group with TMJ dysfunction. Jaw movements were recorded and analysed by Sirognathograph Analysing System II. The results were as follows; Some characteristic patterns in the frontal plane were observed in the chewing movements of the interference group. 1. On interference side chewing, a concave opening pattern was significantly observed. Especially of the interference abnormal group, the working side deviate reverse crossover opening pattern was significantly observed. 2. On non-interference side chewing, a closing path with a step or a concave part was significantly observed. PMID- 2519906 TI - [A study of how to distinguish the occurring side of TMJ noise--multiple click]. AB - Patients with TMJ dysfunction often suffer from TMJ noise. However, determining the side at which the noise occurs is not always easy in auscultation or when picking up the noise electrically, because the sound is carried across the bony structure and picked up on both sides. To solve this problem, we utilized a three directional accelerometer, measuring the sound on both sides in the hope that a difference in measurements would identify the side of the noise. We discovered that time difference between the acceleration peaks for the side originating the sound was shorter than that of the other side. Our report also contains a few observations on the result of this study on patients with plural TMJ noises occurring during one movement of the mandible. PMID- 2519907 TI - [Correlation of the disk configuration with duration of illness and opening distance in patients with closed lock of the temporomandibular joint]. AB - Classification of disk configuration for 96 joints (89 patients) of internal derangement with closed lock of the temporomandibular joint was performed by means of double-spacing contrast arthrotomography. The results of the classification were presented in the first report of this series. The disk shape was divided into 3 types; the first type-prolonged shape maintaining the main parts of the disk, the second type-folded disk, and the third type-massed disk. In this article, the authors tried to clarify the correlation of disk configuration with the duration of illness and with the interincisal opening distance at the first presentation. In the results, the average duration of clicking and locking was statistically longer in the joints of the third type. The interincisal opening distance was statistically smaller in the joints of the first type. These results indicate that the severity of the disk deformation is closely related to the duration of illness and to the joint function. PMID- 2519908 TI - [A trial of mini-splint therapy for internal derangement of TMJ--application for cases without reduction by manipulation technique]. AB - The mini-splint was applied to 21 patients with internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) who had failed in treatment by the manipulation technique. This appliance was constructed of two splints, which were built on the bilateral upper first bicuspids (teeth number 14 & 24, FDI) by methyl-meta acrylate. As a result, the mean of the maximum interincisal distance was improved from 25.0 mm before to 41.0 mm after splint therapy. Among 21 patients, 18 patients were improved in interincisal opening, 12 patients were free from TMJ pain, and 3 patients were relieved from joint noise. Our studies indicate that this technique is useful as one of the treatment methods of TMJ internal derangement. PMID- 2519909 TI - [Clinical study on mandibular condylar fracture. 1. Retrospective study in 100 patients with 130 temporomandibular joint fractures with special consideration in the treatment for the various locations and forms of the fractures]. AB - Clinical retrospective investigation was conducted on mandibular condylar fractures of 100 hospitalized cases at the Department of Oral Surgery, Kyoto University Hospital during the period from 1973 to 1983. The following results were obtained, 1. There were 74 males and 26 females. The age of the patients at the time of injury ranged from 4 to 78 years old. The average age was 28.1 years old. 2. Twenty-six patients were treated within a week of injury, 22 cases within 2-weeks and 33 cases were treated after more tham 3 weeks. 3. Of the 100 cases, 70 were unilateral fractures and 30 were bilateral. The incidence of the concomitant fractures of the mandible were higher in bilateral than in unilateral condylar fractures. 4. On fracture level and form 130-site in 100 patients were divided according to the classification of Maclennan and Kubo. Dislocated and high condylar fractures were most frequently observed. 5. Surgical reduction was mainly achieved in low neck fracture, and the contrary conservative treatment was observed in the higher level fracture. On the other hand condylectomy was infrequently indicated in the dislocated head fracture. PMID- 2519910 TI - [Clinical study on mandibular condylar fracture. 2. Long-term follow-up study in 48 patients with 66 joints]. AB - Sixty-six joints in 49 patients with mandibular condylar fracture were investigated by means of long-term follow-up observation. The group of patients consisted of 39 males and 10 females with ages from 15 to 75 years. The classification of the fractures was follows: MacLennan type 1; four, type 2; four, type 3; 39, and type 4; 39 joints respectively. Treatment was as follows: 25 joints were by conservative therapy, 31 joints were by surgical fixation, and 10 joints condylectomy. The follow-up period of observation ranged from 18 months to 10 years and one month an average of five years and seven months. Clinical assessment was based upon Nakatomi's dysfunction index on mandibular condylar fracture, of which the criteria are as follows; Excellent (No clinical dysfunction sign on the TMJ), Fair (Slight pain, noise, and limited range of motion of the mandible, but clinically no affected mastication), Poor (Moderate dysfunctioned jaw), and Failure (Severe dysfunctioned jaw). 23 joints in 18 patients were ranked as having excellent results. 31 joints in 22 patients were assessed as fair. Ten joints in seven patients were defined as poor, and the remaining two joints in two patients were failures. The overall success rate was 81.7%. There are no statistical differences between patient's groups based on age, sex, uni/bilateral modality, with/without other concomitant fracture, surgical/conservative procedure, location and form of fractures, and duration of period from injury. These results indicated that the conservative procedure would be the first choice as a reasonable and less invasive procedure for functional repair of mandibular condylar fracture. On the other hand, as most patients had some dysfunction sign on the TMJ after mandibular condylar fracture, a more appropriate treatment, surgical or otherwise, should be found. PMID- 2519911 TI - [A case of complete rupture of the righ TMJ disc]. AB - A case of complete rupture of the right TMJ disc was described. A 43 year old woman visited our hospital with the chief complaint of a mild pain in the right TMJ. Initially, a conservative treatment using the occlusal splint (condylar repositioning appliance) was carried out. This was because she had reciprocal clicking of the right TMJ which had occurred not long before and it seemed that the symptoms were due to the trouble with the disc. In spite of this treatment, for 6 months no improvement was obtained and the reciprocal clicking changed into crepitation. Moreover the double contrast arthrotomographic image indicated a perforation or a wide rupture of the disc, and deformities of the articular bone. Then a right TMJ osteoarthrosis with wide (complete) disc rupture was diagnosed, and a discectomy was performed. The symptoms were greatly reduced by this treatment. It was conceivable that the steroid which she had used for a long time to treat bronchial asthma caused a remarkable inhibition of the tissue repairing, and an internal derangement of the TMJ rapidly progressed to osteoarthrosis. PMID- 2519912 TI - [Two cases of temporomandibular arthrosis of young children]. AB - Two cases of temporomandibular arthrosis were reported. Case 1 was a 6 years 4 months old female with pain in her left mandibular region in moving her jaw. Opening of the mouth by herself was slightly limited. Clicking noise was seen and felt from both of her temporomandibular joints. She was in the dental developmental stage IIA by Hellman, and had deep overbite (5mm). Roentogenographic examination revealed a bony defect on her left condylar head. Treatment was performed with an activator. Pain was not felt and the mandibular opening recovered after 2 weeks of treatment. Roetogenographs showed no bony defect on her left condylar head after 5 months of treatment. Case 2 was a 3 years 2 months old male with clicking noise from both of his temporomandibular joints. There was no pain and no limitation of his mouth opening. He was in the dental developmental stage IIA by Hellman, and had large overjet (8mm). He has thumb sucking habit since the age of one year. He is now under regular observation. PMID- 2519913 TI - [Orthodontic approach to temporomandibular arthrosis. A case report of medial displacement of the articular disk]. AB - This clinical report presents orthodontic applications of double contrast arthrotomography and arthroscopy of the temporomandibular joint. We examined a case of mandibular shift with stomatognathic dysfunction using these techniques, and found medial displacement of the articular disk. Generally, displacement of the articular disk is examined only from sagittal section. However, this case indicates that frontal section of double contrast arthrotomography is necessary for the three dimensional understanding of the TMJ. Mandibular position with disk reduction was obtained by double contrast arthrogram, and medial displacement of the disk and malocclusion were treated by dynamic positioner. It is suggested that orthodontic treatment is an effective method both for treatment of internal derangement of the TMJ and also for the final reconstruction of occlusion. PMID- 2519914 TI - Early interference in a priming task with brief masked targets. AB - Priming effects were examined in two experiments using either a pronunciation or lexical decision task. The prime, either a strong associate of the target, an unrelated word, or a neutral prime, was presented for 200 ms. After an SOA of 200, 400, or 800 ms, a masked target was presented for 33.3, 50, or 66.7 ms. Attention was manipulated by varying the probability that prime and target would be strongly associated. Both experiments showed significant interference in the low attention condition and at the 200-ms SOA, presumably before the onset of consciously directed processing. Two subsequent experiments using a short SOA and the low attention condition attempted to determine the conditions under which this interference will occur by varying the interstimulus interval, target duration, and the mask. It was found that interference occurred only when targets were brief and masked. These results are discussed in terms of a model involving lateral inhibition between nodes in semantic memory. It is suggested that when the target is brief and masked, the node in memory corresponding to the target is much less strongly activated and therefore more susceptible to the inhibitory effects of other activated nodes. PMID- 2519915 TI - Recency and the modality effect in immediate ordered recall. AB - In immediate ordered recall, recency is the improved recall of the last item of a presentation, and the modality effect is the advantage for an acoustic presentation over a subvocalized visual presentation, primarily occurring at the last serial position. Experiment 1 tested grouped presentations. There was a modality effect for the first item of the last group, even though that item was at the third-to-last or fourth-to-last serial position. In Experiment 2, for vocalized presentations of syllables ending in a, recency was larger for staccato speech than legato speech; for subvocalized presentations, there was a substantial recency for the legato style. In Experiment 3, recency was larger for a set of syllables ending in ATE than for a set of syllables ending in AME. These results suggest that recency cannot be explained by the existence of a fixed capacity store, auxiliary to the auditory short-term store, that retains only some types of presentations. It is suggested instead that recency might reflect an auxiliary method of using the information in the auditory short-term store. PMID- 2519916 TI - [Experimental study on tooth fractures in young rats]. AB - The influence of tooth fractures on growth of rat incisors was examined with soft X-ray radiography, xeroradiography and microradiography. Thirty young rats were used in this study and experimental fractures were produced on the mandibular left incisors. Radiological observations were carried out immediately, 7, 14, 21, 28 and 35 days after fracturing. The soft X-ray radiograms obtained immediately after fracturing showed clear radiolucent images. The radiopacity of the fractured regions gradually increased from the 7th day. Enamel hypoplasia was observed from the 7th day, and it moved towards the edge of the incisors with the growth of the fractured teeth. The xeroradiograms obtained at each term demonstrated as same findings as those obtained with soft X-ray radiography. The microradiograms obtained immediately after fracturing showed no noteworthy findings except for the clear radiolucent area of the fractured regions. Fine radiopaque lines along the edges of fractured regions were observed from the 7th day. Dentin-like radiopaque calcified masses were observed from the 14th day. PMID- 2519917 TI - [Dental caries of deciduous teeth in nursery school children in Shinshinotsu: changes in prevalence data for three years from 1986 to 1988]. AB - The purpose of this study was to survey the changes in dental caries prevalence in 3-, 4-, and 5-year-old nursery school children in Shinshinotsu for 3 years from 1986 to 1988. The results obtained were as follows: 1) The caries prevalence in 5-year-old Shinshinotsu children decreased from 1986, and was 87.5% in 1988, lower than the national survey in 1987. On the other hand, the number of df teeth per person and the incidence of type C caries increased in 5-year-old Shinshinotsu children. 2) The caries prevalence rate in 3-year-old Shinshinotsu children was 89.5% in 1988, rather higher than the national survey in 1987. PMID- 2519919 TI - [Report of a case of Herpes zoster]. AB - Herpes Zoster is a viral disease of the skin and mucosa characterized by grouped vesicula eruptions and neuralgic pain along a peripheral nerve. A case of Herpes Zoster in the right region along the second and third trigeminal nerve branches of a 24-year-old male was reported. The first disorder appeared as a grouped vesicular eruption in the center of the lower lip. This was followed by a cutaneous lesion in the area of the right second trigeminal nerve branch. From the first day of hospitalization, the patient began receiving a daily dose of 2500mg of immunoglobulin. The administration of immunoglobulin, cured the oral and cutaneous lesion. PMID- 2519920 TI - [The effectiveness of GaA1As semiconductor laser treatment to pain decrease after irradiation]. AB - Recently, sedative and antiphlogistic treatment is conducted with low energy laser irradiation. The purpose of the this study was to evaluate the effectiveness to decrease of pain just after irradiation by a GaA1As semiconductor laser. The irradiation apparatus was SEMI LASER NANOX (LX-800: G-C. Co.) with the following features: a wave length of (around) 780nm: the laser energy, 30mW; exposure time, 30sec to 180sec/per treatment. Diagnosis of pre- and post-operative sensitivity were classified into the following four grades: Grade 0 no pain. Grade I mild pain. Grade II strong but tolerable pain. Grade III intolerable pain (simultaneous with stimulation). The results were as follows: 1. In the hypersensitivity of dentin, the treatment was not effective with 2 cases of grade III, but with all of grade I, II (35 cases) the pain decreased just after irradiation. 2. It was effective in all cases with pain like periodontitis after root canal filling and pain after extraction of teeth. 3. It was effective in all cases with gingivitis, stomatitis, and gingival ulcers after infiltration anesthesia etc.. PMID- 2519921 TI - [Simulation with a pre-clinical training system. 1. Practice in operative dentistry using an experimental manequin articulator, jaw model, and artificial teeth]. AB - Clinical practice with patients is the most important part of education for dental students. However there are considerable difference between lecture, basic practice, and clinical practice. Therefore it is difficult to go from basic practice to clinical practice. To overcome this, we developed and introduced a Pre-Clinical Training system using a newly designed manequin, articulater, jaw model, and artificial teeth. This manequin is very similar to patients in appearance. The mandibular part used a semi-adjustable arcon type articulator. The artificial teeth were made of two types of synthetic resins with different hardness for use in operative dentistry. The teeth also have caries areas made of soft black resin. Using this system, the students practiced oral examination, cavity preparation and restoration in operative dentistry. PMID- 2519918 TI - [Survey of histopathological diagnostic services in the Department of Oral Pathology, School of Dentistry, Higashi-Nippon-Gakuen University, 1979-1989]. AB - This study is based on an analysis of oral biopsy specimens that were diagnosed histopathologically in the Department of Oral Pathology, School of Dentistry, HIGASHI-NIPPON-GAKUEN UNIVERSITY from 1979-1989. 1. The total number of specimens during the ten years were 503 (dental hospital: 363, other personal dental clinics: 140), it corresponding to 440 cases (patients). 2. There were 224 men, 210 women, and 6 unknown. 3. The most common cases were radicular cysts 11.1% (49 cases), the second dental granuloma 9.5% (42 cases), followed by fibroma (fibrous polyp) 7.7% (34 cases). 4. The largest group of all specimens were cysts (35.7%), the second inflammatory lesions (28.0%), followed by tumors (26.6%). 5. About 80% of oral tumors were benign and about 20% were malignant. Of 24 cases with malignant tumors, the majority were squamous cell carcinoma (20 cases, 87%), followed by malignant melanoma (2 cases, 8.7%), verrucous carcinoma (1 case, 4.3%), and clear cell carcinoma (1 case, 4.3%). 6. About 13% of all oral tumors were odontogenic tumors, and the most common were ameloblastoma (8 cases, 53.3%), followed by odontoma (5 cases, 33.3%), and cementifying fibroma (2 cases, 13.3%). 7. The most common cases of specimens from other dental clinics were radicular cysts (23 cases, 16.4%), the second fibroma (fibrous polyp) (17 cases, 12.1%), and followed by dental granuloma (15 cases, 10.1%). PMID- 2519922 TI - [Simulation with a pre-clinical training system. 2. Evaluation of the pre clinical training system]. AB - This study evaluated usefulness of the Pre-Clinical Training System. Undergraduate students and instructors at Higashi-Nippon-Gakuen University practiced class I composite resin restoration of the lower right first molar using the system. After the practice, they filled out questionnaires to evaluate the system. According to the results, this system proved useful for pre-clinical education though there is room for improvement. PMID- 2519924 TI - Osseo-integration: what's in a name? PMID- 2519923 TI - [Healing process of bone fractures examined with X-ray radiography and xeroradiography]. AB - The healing process of bone fractures produced in rat mandibulae was examined with conventional X-ray radiography and xeroradiography. Sixty rats of about 200g were offered to this examination and fractures were experimentally produced in the right mandibulae. Radiological observations were carried out immediately, 1 day, 4 days, 7 days, 14 days, 21 days, 28 days, 35 days, 42 days, 49 days and 56 days after fracturing. The conventional X-ray radiograms showed no noteworthy changes until the 4th day after fracturing. The radiopacity gradually increased from the 7th Day until the 56th day. The xeroradiograms obtained on the 4th day showed some early changes which appeared on the periosteal regions of the right mandibulae. The calcification of fractured regions on the xeroradiograms gradually increased until the 56th day, similar to that observed on the conventional X ray radiograms. PMID- 2519925 TI - Autogenous, allogenic, and beta-TCP grafts: comparative effectiveness in experimental bone furcation defects in dogs. AB - The healing responses of three implant materials--fresh autogenous bone, allogenic decalcified freeze-dried bone, and alloplastic implant, beta-tricalcium phosphate (beta-TCP)--were evaluated and compared. Through-and-through furcational defects were surgically created in the third and fourth mandibular premolars of three dogs. Implant material was then placed individually in the surgical defects. All defects without grafting served as controls. Following grafting (ten weeks into the healing period), individual dogs were killed and prepared for light microscopy. The following results were recorded: (1) All materials were well-tolerated. No post-surgical complications occurred. (2) Graft sites showed more pronounced regeneration and the possibility of higher periodontal attachment than did control sites. (3) The defects filled with autogenous bone showed slightly more pronounced regeneration than in allogenic freeze-dried bone and beta-TCP. PMID- 2519926 TI - The significance of sinus elevation for blade implantology--report of an autopsy case. AB - This paper describes the histopathological examination of an autopsy case featuring reconstruction of an edentulous maxilla by means of uncoated blade implants made of Titanaloy (TI6AL4V) inserted by the first author two years and seven months prior to the patient's death. The naturally induced reparative processes which encourage the success of this method and the optimal geometric flexibility allowed by the use of delicate blades are also examined. The significance of fibro-osseous tissue in blade implant support systems and the term "osseo-integration" often used in implantological literature will be discussed. The present study allows the following conclusions to be drawn: (1) Blade implants can be made in the maxilla. Provided sinus elevation is performed, blade implantation is feasible even when only minimal vertical quantities of bone are available in the distal regions. (2) Even if the opposing jaw bone (in this case the mandible) presents a complete natural dentition, blade implantation therapy remains feasible. (3) As the findings in this study show, the dynamic formation of calcified and non-calcified connective tissue around and within an endosseous implant is a totally natural reaction ensuring (a) fixation, (b) shock absorption, (c) the prevention of infection, and (d) the prevention of epithelial downgrowth. (4) Properly placed blade implants can be subjected to functional loading after six post-operative weeks and do not require a two-stage operative process, with a healing period of three to four months between the first and second surgical interventions. This often-cited three-to-four-month ossification period is thus unnecessary. (5) This case study clearly refutes the claims made by some authors (Tetsch, 1983; Strunz and Tetsch, 1985; Schramm-Scherrer and Tetsch, 1986) to the effect that (1) the maxilla cannot be implanted, and (2) blade implantology is doomed to failure, whether practiced in the maxilla or the mandible. PMID- 2519927 TI - Psychological considerations for implant patients. PMID- 2519928 TI - Recognition of malignancy and dysplasia in the dental implant patient. AB - The purpose of this paper is to report what appears to be an unusually high number of head and neck malignancies in a limited group of patients where primary referral was to undergo implant procedures. While the tumors were probably coincidental, the occurrences point out the importance of careful oral examinations, particularly in this age group. PMID- 2519929 TI - Development of a new therapeutic approach to B cell malignancy. The induction of immunity by the host against cell surface receptor on the tumor. PMID- 2519930 TI - Prospects for the treatment of B cell tumors using idiotypic vaccination. AB - Manipulation of the immune system in order specifically to attack autologous tumor cell has been a distant goal, largely due to the poor definition of tumor associated antigens. By focussing on B cell lymphomas which express a molecularly defined clonal marker, the idiotypic immunoglobulin, it has been possible to generate autologous anti-idiotypic responses which suppress individual tumors. Studies of the components of these responses are providing insight into host effector mechanisms which can be activated against tumors, and also into the many strategies adopted by the target cells in order to avoid such attack. Promising results in various animal models where tumor bearers can be treated by idiotypic immunization have led to the point where application of this approach to the treatment of certain categories of human B cell lymphoma can be considered. PMID- 2519931 TI - Anti-idiotypic tumor vaccines. PMID- 2519932 TI - Modulation of cancer patients' immune responses by anti-idiotypic antibodies. AB - The immunomodulatory role of anti-idiotypic antibodies (Ab2) in patients with gastrointestinal cancer has been demonstrated in two types of clinical trials. In the first, cancer patients were treated with a monoclonal antibody (MAb) defining a tumor-associated antigen (Ag). MAb administration initiated an idiotypic network as demonstrated by the induction of both Ab2 and anti-anti-idiotypic antibodies (Ab3) in the treated patients. The Ab3 bound to tumor cells and isolated tumor Ag with the same specificity as the Mab (Ab1) at the beginning of the idiotypic cascade. A beneficial role of Ab3 is postulated for patients showing delayed clinical responses to MAb therapy. In a recent trial, patients with advanced colorectal cancer responded to immunization with Ab2 that functionally mimicked in vitro and in vivo (animals) a gastrointestinal tumor associated Ag by developing highly specific Ab3 with anti-tumor binding reactivities. Thus, Ab2 are promising agents in immunotherapy approaches to cancer. These studies suggest an immunoregulatory role for Ab2 in cancer patients. Modulation of cellular immune responses by Ab2 in cancer patients will be an important consideration in future studies. PMID- 2519934 TI - Relationship between locus of control and depression mediated by anger toward others. PMID- 2519933 TI - Granulated peripolar epithelial cells in the renal corpuscle of marine elasmobranch fish. AB - Granulated epithelial cells at the vascular pole of the renal corpuscle, peripolar cells, have been found in the kidneys of five species of elasmobranchs, the little skate (Raja erinacea), the smooth dogfish shark (Mustelus canis), the Atlantic sharpnose shark (Rhizoprionodon terraenovae), the scalloped hammerhead shark (Sphyrna lewini), and the cow-nosed ray (Rhinoptera bonasus). In a sixth elasmobranch, the spiny dogfish shark (Squalus acanthias), the peripolar cells could not be identified among numerous other granulated epithelial cells. The peripolar cells are located at the transition between the parietal epithelium of Bowman's capsule and the visceral epithelium (podocytes) of the glomerulus, thus forming a cuff-like arrangement surrounding the hilar vessels of the renal corpuscle. These cells may have granules and/or vacuoles. Electron microscopy shows that the granules are membrane-bounded, and contain either a homogeneous material or a paracrystalline structure with a repeating period of about 18 nm. The vacuoles are electron lucent or may contain remnants of a granule. These epithelial cells lie close to the granulated cells of the glomerular afferent arteriole. They correspond to the granular peripolar cells of the mammalian, avian and amphibian kidney. The present study is the first reported occurrence of peripolar cells in a marine organism or in either bony or cartilagenous fish. PMID- 2519935 TI - Intrapleural analgesia: a new technique. PMID- 2519937 TI - Intrapleural bupivacaine v saline after thoracotomy--effects on pain and lung function--a double-blind study. AB - The effects of intrapleural (IP) bupivacaine on pain, morphine requirement, and pulmonary function were evaluated in 15 patients for 24 hours after thoracotomy. An IP catheter was placed during surgery. Patients were randomized in a double blind fashion to receive 1.5 mg/kg of 0.5% bupivacaine IP or saline on two occasions, eight hours apart. A standard anesthetic with thiopental, oxygen, isoflurane, and nondepolarizing muscle relaxant was given. Pain was evaluated with a visual analog pain score every hour, and forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume one second (FEV1), peak expiratory flow (PF), and forced expiratory flow 25% to 75% (FEF) were measured 1, 2, 4, 8, and 24 hours postoperatively as well as before and 30 minutes after each IP injection. Arterial blood gases were sampled 1, 2, 8, and 24 hours postoperatively. Plasma bupivacaine concentrations were measured in 10 patients 5, 10, 20, 30, 60, 120, and 180 minutes after IP injection. With each IP bupivacaine injection, the pain score and morphine requirement decreased. There was a significant improvement in all pulmonary function tests in the patients receiving bupivacaine, but no change in the saline controls. The analgesic effect was shortlived (two to five hours), possibly because of loss of bupivacaine in the chest drains. No differences were seen between the two groups after the effect of IP bupivacaine had worn off. Plasma bupivacaine levels had a Cmax of 0.44 to 1.50 micrograms/mL, with a Tmax at 5 to 30 minutes with levels well below 2 to 4 micrograms/mL where increasing toxicity is seen. PMID- 2519936 TI - Intrapleural bupivacaine--technical considerations and intraoperative use. AB - The authors evaluated the incidence and type of technical problems associated with blind insertion of intrapleural catheters placed in 21 anesthetized patients and then injected in a double-blind fashion with 0.5% bupivacaine (1.5 mg/kg) or isotonic saline. The patients' chests were then opened, catheter positions located, and the lungs inspected. Eleven of the catheters were located with the tips intrapleurally, three extrapleurally, and seven actually in lung tissue. Eight patients had holes in the lung surface. Three patients had a pneumothorax, two of which were under tension. Plasma bupivacaine levels reached maximal concentrations at about 20 minutes in those with intrapleurally placed catheters, but not until 60 minutes when the catheter had actually penetrated the lung. Significant variations in plasma bupivacaine levels were achieved when the catheter entered lung tissue, with potentially toxic levels in one patient. To evaluate intraoperative analgesic effects, all patients were given a standard anesthetic with isoflurane, oxygen, and a muscle relaxant. There was no significant difference in isoflurane requirement between the groups who had bupivacaine v saline injected into their intrapleural catheters before surgery. It is concluded that blind insertion of intrapleural catheters can be hazardous, especially if followed by positive-pressure ventilation. In addition, catheter placement in lung tissue, which was not uncommon, delays the time for peak plasma concentrations and may increase risk of toxicity. Intrapleural bupivacaine was not found to be a useful adjunct to general anesthesia during thoracotomies. PMID- 2519938 TI - Lumbar epidural fentanyl analgesia after thoracic surgery. AB - Thoracic epidural fentanyl has been used successfully for postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing thoracic surgery. Prior investigators have suggested that increasing the administered dosage and volume of lumbar epidural fentanyl may increase the spread of analgesia. The feasibility of injecting a high volume (20 mL) of fentanyl into the lumbar epidural space for post-thoracic surgery analgesia was studied in 17 patients undergoing elective thoracotomy or sternotomy. All patients had a lumbar epidural catheter placed before induction of general anesthesia. No narcotic was administered during surgery. Thirty minutes before the conclusion of anesthesia, 200 micrograms of fentanyl in 16 mL of 0.9% saline was administered via the epidural route. In the intensive care unit (ICU), additional fentanyl in the same dosage and volume was injected when the patient complained of pain. Pain was scored on a linear analog scale pre injection and 30 minutes post-injection. Arterial blood gases were obtained simultaneously. All patients experienced pain relief within 15 minutes of injection. No significant respiratory depression or hypercarbia was noted. Lumbar epidural fentanyl is a safe and practical alternative to thoracic epidural analgesia in the post-thoracic surgical patient. PMID- 2519939 TI - Perioperative cardiac pacing using an atrioventricular pacing pulmonary artery catheter. AB - An atrioventricular pacing thermodilution pulmonary artery catheter was evaluated in 40 patients undergoing cardiac surgery. The catheter was inserted in all study patients in a timely fashion without difficulty and functioned well during the perioperative period. Before the start of cardiopulmonary bypass, atrial capture was achieved in 98% of the patients (threshold mean 4.9 mA), ventricular capture in 100% (threshold mean 3.0 mA) and atrioventricular sequential (AVS) pacing in 98%. After cardiopulmonary bypass, atrial capture was achieved in 95% of the patients (threshold mean 5.2 mA), ventricular pacing in 100% (threshold mean 3.1 mA), and sequential pacing in 95%. In 27 patients in whom cardiac outputs were recorded, cardiac index increased an average of 45% (range 8% to 95%) with atrial or AVS pacing over ventricular pacing alone. In 11 patients, extended atrial pacing was used postoperatively, the longest for 93 hours. No major complications could be attributed to the study catheter. Minor complications included diaphragmatic stimulation in one patient and supraventricular tachycardia, possibly related to atrial pacing postoperatively, in one patient. These data suggest that this catheter/pacing system is effective and reliable for hemodynamic monitoring and temporary atrial or AVS pacing. In addition, the atrial pacing probe can be used perioperatively to record atrial electrograms to facilitate the diagnosis of supraventricular tachyarrhythmias. PMID- 2519940 TI - Oxacillin and tobramycin serum levels during cardiopulmonary bypass. AB - Antibiotic prophylaxis in cardiac surgery is recommended to combat acquired infections caused by staphylococci and gram-negative bacilli. Prophylaxis seems effective provided blood levels are greater than minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC). In this study, two doses of antibiotics were compared in 45 patients with normal renal function during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). All patients received 50 mg/kg of oxacillin. Group 1 (30 patients) also received 1 mg/kg of tobramycin, while group 2 (15 patients) received 2 mg/kg of tobramycin. Blood samples were taken after the administration of antibiotics, as well as at the onset and conclusion of CPB. Additional samples were taken before and after heparin injection before CPB, and from the arterial and venous cannulae of the bubble oxygenator during CPB. In both groups, oxacillin serum levels were constantly greater than MIC for susceptible bacteria. In group 1, tobramycin levels less than 2 micrograms/mL (MIC for most susceptible bacteria) occurred in four patients before CPB, in 14 patients at the onset of CPB, and in 19 patients at the conclusion of CPB. These low levels were not explained by heparin administration or absorption onto the CPB circuit, but were the result of hemodilution. In group 2, in which all the tobramycin levels were higher than 2 micrograms/mL, serum levels decreased from 9.9 +/- 3.4 (mean +/- SD) to 3.7 +/- 0.7 micrograms/mL throughout the procedure. Plasma creatinine did not change significantly in either group. It is concluded that in patients with normal renal function, doses as high as 50 mg/kg of oxacillin and 2 mg/kg of tobramycin may be necessary before CPB to provide adequate serum levels throughout CPB. PMID- 2519941 TI - Hemodynamic changes after nafcillin administration during coronary artery bypass surgery. AB - The hemodynamic response to nafcillin administration was studied in 45 patients with good left ventricular function and no known history of hypersensitivity to penicillin during coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Group I (15 patients) received 1 gram of nafcillin in 10 mL of saline as an intravenous (IV) bolus, group II (15 patients) received 1 gram of nafcillin in 50 mL of saline as a slow IV infusion over 15 minutes, and group III (15 patients) did not receive nafcillin. Hemodynamic variables and plasma histamine and catecholamine levels were measured before and after nafcillin administration, after 500 mg of CaCl2, and after 0.1 mg of phenylephrine. Bolus nafcillin administration produced profound hypotension secondary to vasodilatation with significant increases in cardiac index and decreases in systemic and pulmonary vascular resistances. Cardiac index increased from 3.15 +/- 0.3 L/min/m2 to 5.75 +/- 0.25 L/min/m2 (P less than 0.005) one minute after nafcillin administration, and remained at 5.1 +/- 0.35 L/min/m2 after administration of CaCl2 (P less than 0.005). All hemodynamic parameters returned toward control values after administration of 0.1 mg of phenylephrine, IV. Plasma epinephrine, norepinephrine, and histamine levels increased more than 100%. In group II, cardiac index increased, while systemic and pulmonary vascular resistances and mean arterial pressure decreased. However, these changes were less significant than those found in group I.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2519942 TI - A comparison of the effects of central v peripheral bolus injections of potassium chloride on aortic root potassium concentrations in swine. AB - Clinically relevant doses of potassium chloride (equivalent to 2 mEq/60 kg of body weight) were administered as rapid intravenous (IV) boluses to healthy halothane-anesthetized pigs. Potassium was given either peripherally through a standard IV ear catheter or centrally through the central venous port of a pulmonary artery catheter. Multiple injections were made in each pig, and cardiac output was varied by changing end-tidal halothane concentration. The aortic root potassium concentration was measured every three to six seconds for 90 seconds following potassium administration in each pig. Monitored variables included end tidal halothane, end-tidal carbon dioxide, pulmonary artery pressure, mean arterial blood pressure, cardiac output, electrocardiogram, and temperature. Following both peripheral and central administration of potassium chloride, aortic root potassium increased significantly. However, the time required to achieve the peak aortic root potassium concentration was significantly less after central administration. In addition, the change in aortic root potassium concentration was greater following central administration compared with peripheral. The change in aortic root potassium concentration correlated inversely with cardiac output only after central, but not peripheral injection. Despite marked transient hyperkalemia in all animals, no electrocardiographic evidence of hyperkalemia could be demonstrated. It is concluded that small bolus doses of potassium chloride (2 mEq/60 kg) can be given safely either peripherally or centrally in normal, hemodynamically stable swine. PMID- 2519944 TI - Alteration of red cell deformability during extracorporeal bypass: membrane v bubble oxygenator. AB - Red cell deformability is essential for normal microcirculation, since the red cell is greater in diameter than the caliber of small capillaries. Red cell filtration rate (RFR) was measured using a 5 microns nucleopore polycarbonate filter as an index of red cell deformability before, during, and after two hours of extracorporeal circulation for coronary artery bypass surgery, with a bubble oxygenator (eight patients) or a hollow fiber membrane oxygenator (14 patients). RFR decreased steadily and significantly during bypass in the bubble oxygenator group. After the start of bypass, RFR was significantly higher at all measurement intervals in the membrane oxygenator group as compared with the bubble oxygenator group. It can be postulated that significantly impaired red cell deformability caused by the bubble oxygenator is attributed to mechanical damage secondary to a huge blood-gas interface, and possibly to neutrophil-mediated oxygen free radical formation due to complement activation. Results indicate that the hollow fiber membrane oxygenator is superior to the bubble oxygenator in maintaining red cell deformability. PMID- 2519943 TI - The influence of rapid potassium administration on hemodynamics and endogenous catecholamine production during extracorporeal circulation. AB - In a prospective randomized double-blind study, the peripheral vascular effects of potassium chloride (KCl) and potassium-magnesium-aspartate (KMA) were compared. Twenty patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery received either 12 mmol of KCl (n = 10) or 12 mmol of KMA (n = 10) into the oxygenator of the heart-lung machine during extracorporeal circulation (ECC). The most striking difference between these two solutions was vasoconstriction following KCl administration and vasodilation after KMA injection. In the KMA group, decreases of perfusion pressure (MAP) and systemic vascular resistance (SVR), as well as changes in the oxygenator volume (dV), were significant (P less than 0.01) between the first and the fifth minutes. Maximal changes of MAP, from 72 +/- 13 to 59 +/- 12 mmHg (mean +/- SD), and SVR were recorded in the first and second minutes. Oxygenator volume changes reached their maximum (285 +/- 163 mL) in the tenth minute. In the KCl group, maximal increases in MAP, from 70 +/- 16 to 81 +/- 20 mmHg (mean +/- SD), and SVR were found in the fourth minute. Maximal changes in dV (300 +/- 315 mL) were measured in the tenth minute. Plasma epinephrine levels, which were already elevated during ECC, showed further increases in all cases in the KCl group and in most of the cases in the KMA group. The change in plasma epinephrine concentration following KCl injection was significant (P less than 0.01). No characteristic change in plasma norepinephrine was found in either of the two groups.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2519945 TI - Action of adrenergic agonists on resistance v capacitance vessels during cardiopulmonary bypass. AB - The peripheral vascular effects of three different adrenergic agonists were investigated in 13 patients undergoing valve replacement during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). The venous reservoir (RV) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were used as indices of the changes in venous capacitance and arterial resistance, respectively, produced by the adrenergic agonists. Isoproterenol, a pure beta adrenergic agonist, decreased both MAP and RV. Norepinephrine (NE), which activates both alpha 1- and alpha 2-receptors in humans, increased both MAP and RV, while phenylephrine (PH) a selective alpha 1-adrenergic agonist, increased only MAP with no significant change in RV. It is concluded that in humans during hypothermic CPB, beta-agonists dilate both the resistance and capacitance vessels, selective alpha 1-adrenergic agonists preferentially constrict the resistance vessels, and non-selective alpha 1- and alpha 2-adrenergic agonists constrict both the resistance and capacitance vessels. PMID- 2519947 TI - Management of factor XI deficiency in coronary artery bypass graft surgery by plasmapheresis and exchange transfusion. PMID- 2519946 TI - Effects of preoperative calcium channel and beta-adrenergic blockade on the vascular response to adrenergic agonists during cardiopulmonary bypass. AB - The present report compares the effects of isoproterenol (ISO), norepinephrine (NE), and phenylephrine (PH) on the mean arterial pressure (MAP) and reservoir volume (RV) during cardiopulmonary (CPB) in 16 patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) who were treated preoperatively with oral nifedipine (10 to 40 mg, three times a day) and propranolol (40 to 60 mg, three times a day). The changes of RV and MAP were used as indices of the changes in venous capacitance and arterial resistance, respectively, produced by the adrenergic agonists. ISO, a beta-adrenergic agonist, decreased both MAP and RV. NE, which activates both alpha 1- and alpha 2- adrenoceptors, increased both MAP and RV, while PH, a selective alpha 1-adrenergic agonist, increased only MAP with no significant change in RV. The changes are qualitatively similar to those previously achieved in patients undergoing valve replacement who did not receive any blocker preoperatively. However, the decrease of MAP by ISO and its increase by NE were significantly less in the CABG group. It is concluded that preoperative preparation of patients undergoing CABG with beta-adrenergic blockers and calcium channel blockers can modify the effect of ISO and NE on the peripheral resistance, but they have no significant effect on the action of PH at the doses selected in this study. PMID- 2519948 TI - Contaminated platelets as a cause of hemodynamic instability after cardiopulmonary bypass. PMID- 2519949 TI - Reoperative cardiac surgery in a Jehovah's Witness: role of continuous cell salvage and in-line reinfusion. PMID- 2519950 TI - Septic shock: the cardiovascular abnormality and therapy. PMID- 2519951 TI - Case 1989-2. A case of the "shunting swan". PMID- 2519952 TI - Pro: the superiority of the membrane oxygenator. PMID- 2519953 TI - Con: in defense of the bubble oxygenator. PMID- 2519954 TI - Insidious balloon failure. PMID- 2519955 TI - Calcium salts: another con. PMID- 2519956 TI - One-lobe ventilation or the hazard of bilateral upper lobectomy. PMID- 2519957 TI - Review of the significance of pulmonary intravascular macrophages with respect to animal species and age. AB - Pulmonary intravascular macrophages (PIMs) have been recognized as the site of substantial uptake of blood-borne particles in the lungs of a number of domestic animal species. Concomitantly, there is a pronounced lung susceptibility to endotoxin in calves, goats, sheep, pigs, and cats. Hemodynamic changes and initial lung injury after endotoxin administration are mediated by arachidonic acid metabolites from a pulmonary source. A significant role of PIMs in regulating pulmonary hemodynamics is implicated. PMID- 2519958 TI - Formation of double contour as a repair reaction in the human femoral head. AB - Thirty-two femoral heads from autopsy material with arthrotic changes and 12 surgical specimens of femoral heads with different diseases have been examined with respect to their ability to form a 'double contour'. An additional bony plate within the cartilage, giving rise to the double contour, occurred only in the non-pressure zone of the articular cartilage. There were no major differences between autopsy and surgical material and these changes could also not be found in normal femoral heads. The origin of a double contour could be traced to tissue elements penetrating the subchondral bone from the bone marrow, and was the result of a gradual transformation with chondroid tissue as the starting material. We observed a similar transformation leading to lamellar bone in association with pannus. PMID- 2519959 TI - Generalized cutaneous hyperpigmentation in hairless mice induced by topical dimethylbenzanthracene. AB - The skin of hairless (Ng/Bln) mice topically treated with dimethylbenzanthracene (DMBA) was investigated by light microscopy, histochemistry, electron microscopy and autoradiography in order to gain some insight into the mechanisms by which the DMBA-induced cutaneous hyperpigmentation is mediated. The results of the present study indicate that this phenomenon is due to the DMBA-induced stimulation of both the tyrosinase system and the mitotic activity of dopa inactive dormant melanocytes. PMID- 2519961 TI - Hypoxic injury of rat cortical neurons in primary cell cultures. Introduction of a modified method to create the hypoxic state. AB - A primary culture of cortical neurons was established from a 17-day-old rat embryo. Twenty-four hours after plating (day 0), the medium was changed to a chemically defined one. Hypoxia was exerted for 4 h by placing cultures in an air tight chamber connected to a vacuum pump and a cylinder filled with 95% N2 and 5% CO2. Hypoxic stress was exerted on one of the consecutive days from day 0 to day 3. Hypoxia on days 0, 1 or 2 reduced the number of surviving neurons immediately following exposure. However, hypoxia on day 3 resulted in delayed reduction. Anit synaptophysin antibody was used immunocytochemically to examine whether the difference is related to teh synaptic formation of cultured neurons. Neurons which had more and longer neurites were clearly stained for synaptophysin. We suspect that neurons with synaptic formation release substances from their presynaptic vesicles, and that these substances might account for the delay reduction. PMID- 2519960 TI - Phagocytic properties of hepatic endothelial cells and splenic macrophages compensating for a decreased phagocytic function of Kupffer cells in the chronically ethanol-fed rats. AB - The balance of phagocytic function among Kupffer cells, hepatic endothelial cells and splenic macrophages in the chronically ethanol-fed rats has been investigated. Clearance of latex particles in the blood was measured to estimate the function of the reticuloendothelial system. Phagocytosis of latex particles by Kupffer cells, hepatic endothelial cells or splenic macrophages in vivo was measured by counting the number of ingested particles in a cell after isolation of hepatic nonparenchymal cells or spleen cells following injection of different amounts of latex particles. Latex particle clearance was suppressed in the ethanol-fed rats, demonstrating a decreased phagocytic capacity of the reticuloendothelial system. Markedly decreased phagocytic function was found in 40% of Kupffer cells of the chronically ethanol-fed rats. In contrast, the number of latex particles in hepatic endothelial cells and in splenic macrophages was increased after injection of a triggering dose of latex particles. From these results it may be concluded that an increased phagocytosis of hepatic endothelial cells and splenic macrophages could compensate for the decreased phagocytic function of Kupffer cells. PMID- 2519962 TI - Immunolocalization of a subnucleolar nucleoprotein complex containing RNA polymerase 1 in ascites hepatoma cells using monoclonal antibodies. AB - We have isolated a discrete subnucleolar macromolecular nucleoprotein complex by direct treatment of Novikoff ascites hepatoma nucleoli by MspI restriction digestion. Using a monoclonal antibody made against the subnucleolar nucleoprotein complex that was shown to inhibit RNA polymerase (pol) 1 activity in vitro, we localized an Mr approximately 55,000 protein subunit which was demonstrated previously by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and Western blotting to share epitopes with the RNA pol 1 moiety of the subnucleolar complex. By indirect immunofluorescence the distribution of the Mr approximately 55,000 component of the subnucleolar nucleoprotein complex was examined at various phases of the cell cycle. At prophase, it was localized in large (approximately 1.5 microns in diameter) ball-like structures associated with the nuclear periphery and nuclear peripheral chromatin, suggesting that these structures might be related to preribosomal elements. After chromatin condensation and the pairing of daughter chromosomes, the large ball-like spheres increased in size and were associated with propidium iodide staining at one side of the nucleus; whereas throughout and especially at the opposite side of the nucleus, smaller, round, punctate structures of approximately 0.5 micron in diameter were visibly labeled that were not associated with propidium iodide staining. At later stages of the cell cycle, these small round structures were again associated with propidium iodide staining, suggesting that they may be related to prenucleolar and/or preribosomal elements which would likely contain the appropriate nucleic acid in association with RNA pol 1 and cofactors of RNA pol 1. PMID- 2519963 TI - Transmission of Rift Valley fever virus by different geographic strains of Culex pipiens in Egypt. AB - Previous investigations have delt with colonized Cx. pipiens and RVF virus interactions. This study evaluated the vector competence of parental Cx. pipiens populations for RVF virus and investigated variations in the vector competence among different geographic strains of this mosquito in Egypt. Cx. pipiens females were fed on viremic hamsters circulating 9.4-10.5 log10 SMICLD50 of virus. Mosquito samples were freezed at different intervals extending between 0-12 days of extrinsic incubation (EI). Transmission experiments started at day 5 of EI when individual females were allowed to refeed on normal hamsters. The infection rates for the geographic strains tested ranged between 85% and 100% and the transmission rates ranged between 6% and 35%. Transmission of RVF virus to normal hamsters took place at days 9, 12, 15 and 18 of EI by the different tested Cx. pipiens strains. Transmitter females contained significantly more virus than the non-transmitters except for the strain of Giza. Most of the infected Cx. pipiens individuals were of the non-transmitting type even those with high titers. Barriers at the salivary gland level competing RVF virus transmission are probably present in Egyptian Cx. pipiens. RVG virus infection was observed to adversely affect Cx. pipiens. The present investigation revealed no geographic variations in the vector competence of Egyptian Cx. pipiens for RVF virus. PMID- 2519964 TI - Shigellae and Vibrionaceae species as a cause of diarrhoea among children in Aden. AB - In Aden, the incidence of diarrhoea among infants and children is still high. The present work aimed at investigation of Shigelleae and Vibrionaceae as etiologic agents of enteric infections. Stool specimens obtained from 1056 children complaining of diarrhoea were cultured on plating media and on enrichment media. Suspected colonies were then serotyped and antibiotic sensitivity tests performed. Seven percent of the specimens were found positive for Shigella strains. Shigella boydii was the commonest, particularly serotypes 14 and 1. Two percent of specimens were positive for Vibrionaceae, Plesiomonas shigelloides had the highest frequency. Several Shigella strains revealed multiple resistance to antibiotics, this was explained as due to a plasmid role. PMID- 2519965 TI - Estimation of cercarial antigen efficiency by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). AB - Cercariae were collected, hemogenized and the amount of protein was measured. ELISA was preformed by using 3 concentrations of cercarial Ag(2.5 ug/ml; 5 ug/ml and 10 ug/ml) also two types of sera were used; immune and non immune. Two dilutions (1:500 and 1:2000) of the conjugate were used in this test. The degree of absorbance was measured after 24 H by spectrophotometer, where the results showed that, the degree of absorbance was increased in the presence of immune sera and also in the presence of 1:500 conjugate concentration, but there was no difference in the degree of absorbance with the use of different Ag concentrations. It is obvious that 2.5 ug/ml of Ag could give very high ELISA readings with infected mice sera. PMID- 2519967 TI - Efficiency of tuberculin as a tool to determine the prevalence of tuberculosis. AB - Among 1937 first grade primary school children followed, the results of tuberculin test, the prevalence rate of TB infection was 4.49% with an estimated annual infection rate of 0.75%. Household contacts of tuberculin positive pupils gave a prevalence rate of infection of 30.6%. As for the efficiency of tuberculin screening test, data of this work showed a positive predictive value of 13.3%. Out of 10 diagnosed tuberculous patients, 4 cases were diagnosed for the first time during this study. PMID- 2519966 TI - Investigation of sampling methods for the study of Phlebotomine sandflies in Egypt. AB - Different sampling field techniques were investigated for the study of the natural behaviour of the sand flies in Egypt (South Sinai and Alexandria). Sampling methods were divided into two groups: the first group is techniques for catching alive flies [Active search (Aspirator), CDC-light trap; funnel trap; Fan trap and catches off bait] and the second group is techniques for collecting dead specimens [sticky traps, and illuminated sticky traps (chemical light sticky trap)]. Comparison between the efficiency of the different trapping methods for collecting sandflies indicated that the CDC light trap was the most productive type for species of the genus phlebotomus followed by the illuminated paper traps and then the sticky paper traps. Members of the Sergentomyia group showed to be more attracted to illuminated/sticky paper followed by the sticky paper and then the CDC light traps. In general, sticky paper traps are the most widely used technique for sand fly outdoor collection as it is easy to be used, unexpensive and convenient for the purpose of sandfly surveys. PMID- 2519968 TI - Anthropometric assessment of nutritional status and growth of children in Democratic Yemen. AB - A cross-sectional study of 600 school children aged 7-13 years of both sexes was carried out in Aden city, Democratic yemen. Body weight, body height, mid-arm circumference and triceps skinfold thickness of left side were measured for each child. The results showed that the weights, heights, mid-arm circumference and triceps skinfold thickness are almost linear with increasing age among the studied group. Generally, girls showed significantly higher values of all studied anthropometric measurements than boys above 11 years. Following the approach of waterlow classification, the percentages of wasting, underweight, stunting and concurrent wasting and stunting were found to be 8.9%, 25.8%, 22.2% and 2.9% respectively. PMID- 2519969 TI - Heterozygote deficiency in natural populations of Aedes caspius Pallas from Egypt. AB - Aedes caspius Pallas populations from the Mediterranean regions are genetically highly polymorphic, and may diverge into 2 genetically isolated forms. We examined the genetic structure of 3 mosquito populations from Faiyum oasis, using starch gel electrophoresis at 8 gene loci, from which only one was monomorphic. Genetic variability was high (A = 1.97; H = 0.12; P = 54.2, 66.7). Eleven out of 16 population--enzyme combinations with variability exhibited heterozygote deficiency from Hardy--Weinberg expectations. These results suggest that tested populations represent a mosquito complex, although no genetic divergence was detected (D = 0.012) since presumed sympatric gamodemes were sampled as a single population. It is of prime importance to detect cryptic gamodemes and to elucidate the present status of Ae. caspius, as this may greatly influence control strategies. PMID- 2519970 TI - The change in food and nutrition pattern in Kuwait. PMID- 2519971 TI - Patterns of blood pressure among pregnant mothers attending MCH centres in Alexandria. AB - The present study was conducted to illustrate the range of normal blood pressure among pregnant mothers attending MCH centres and its biological and socioeconomic determinants. A total sample of 630 pregnant mothers were selected from 6 centres representing the 6 zones of Alexandria. Mothers of blood pressure above 140/90 mm Hg were excluded. The results showed that the mean systolic blood pressure in the first trimester was 112.16 mm Hg, decreased to 109.42. mm Hg for mothers in the 2nd trimester and raised again to 114.41 mm Hg in the 3rd trimester. A variety of socioeconomic and biological factors were involved in changing the range of blood pressure within normal limits specially during specific trimesters of pregnancy. It is recommended to record blood pressure for pregnant mothers from the first antenatal visit at any trimester. Single value can be used as potential marker. Those with higher trends of normal pressure values should be systemically followed. PMID- 2519972 TI - Bi-autogenous ovarian cycles in Egyptian Aedes caspius Pallas (Diptera:Culicidae). AB - Autogenous Aedes (Ochlerotatus) caspius Pallas from Aswan deposits 1 to 2 egg batches without a blood meal. Repeated ovarian developmental cycles were responsible for the bi-ovipositional pattern as indicated by the presence of 2 dilatations in the ovariolar pedicel of bi-autogenous females and by the early stages of development of the ovaries (II and II B) observed 1-3 days following initial oviposition, later stages of maturation occurred progressively. Three levels of autogeny were distinguished within the population: mono-autogenous females that deposited 1 egg batch and were unable to initiate further oogenesis (54.4%), mono-autogenous females in which various degrees of vitellogenesis developed posterior to initial sole oviposition (40%) and bi-autogenous females (5.6%) that deposited 2 autogenous egg batches but were unable to develop any further oogenesis. The fecundity of mono-autogenous females (about 56 eggs) whether they could develop a 2nd autogenous cycle or not, was comparable to that of bi-autogenous mosquitoes in their initial egg batch (53 eggs), suggesting that ability to develop a subsequent autogenous follicular cycle is determined by factors independent of nutrient reserves accumulated during the larval stage. The 2nd egg batch of bi-autogenous females was smaller (21 eggs) than the initial batch. The total reproductive effort of bi-autogenous individuals (about 74 eggs) was superior to that of mono-autogenous females. However, bi-autogenous females laid the totality of their eggs within about 16 days, whereas the average initial gonotrophic cycle of mono-autogenous females was 6 days. It is concluded that bi autogeny in Ae. caspius would be of little value in the population increase although it may contribute maintaining the species when the host is not available. PMID- 2519973 TI - Activated peripheral blood mononuclear cells a possible substitute to B lymphocytes in HLA-DR determination. AB - The serological determination of class II antigens is still a mandatory test prior to allotransplantation. It is known that these antigens are normally expressed on B-lymphocytes and monocytes. The B-lymphocytes that constitute 10 15% of total blood lymphocytes are the cells currently used for HLA-DR typing. To avoid HLA-DR typing difficulties, or even impossibilities that are frequently encountered among some patient groups, we studied the response of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMNC)--as an alternative source of cells for class II antigen typing--to in vitro mitogen and interleukin-2 activation and propagation. Although the patients included in this study were selected having pre-known HLA DR typing difficulties, all of them could be adequately typed by this method. PMID- 2519974 TI - Observations on sexually transmitted diseases in promiscuous males in Djibouti. AB - Observations are reported on 7 sexually transmitted diseases in a heterosexual population of 105 promiscuous males in Djibouti, East Africa. Neisseria gonorrhoeae was cultured from urethral swabs from 34 subjects. Six isolates were beta lactamase positive (18%). High levels of resistance to antimicrobials were noted with penicillin, spectinomycin and cotrimoxazole, while tetracyclines and erythromycin were unvariably effective. Six patients had Chlamydia urethritis, one of whom had concomitant gonococcal urethritis. Half of the sera reacted positive for antibodies to Chlamydia. A total of 31 subjects had a positive treponemal FTA-Abs test; of these, only 14 had a reactive RPR test. Nineteen individuals were positive for HBsAg. One subject had a western blot confirmed HIV 1 infection, while none had antibodies to HIV-2 or HTLV-I. PMID- 2519975 TI - Study of the lipoprotein pattern among workers exposed to lead. AB - Occupational exposure to lead fumes constitutes a serious problem in Egypt, since a considerable number of workers might be involved in its deleterious effect. The present study aimed to elucidate the effect of lead exposure on the lipoprotein pattern of exposed workers. The study has been carried out in a plant manufacturing lead batteries. It consists of 89 workers exposed to lead and 25 control subjects. Fasting blood samples were collected for the determination of serum lipoprotein pattern and their cholesterol and phospholipid content. Levels of lead in blood and delta amino levulinic acid in urine have been determined as biological indices of lead exposure. Lead exposure caused mainly a cumulative effect on the cholesterol and phospholipid content of lipoproteins since only workers exposed for more than 10 years showed significant changes. These changes might be referred to the effect of lead exposure on liver and/or on trace metal metabolism. PMID- 2519976 TI - Tumor induction by 4-(methyl)benzenediazonium sulfate in mice. AB - 4-(Methyl)benzenediazonium sulfate (MBD) was administered to Swiss mice by subcutaneous injection at weekly intervals 19 or 16 times at 50 micrograms/g body weight. The treatment gave rise to tumors of the subcutaneous tissue and skin. The tumor incidences in the groups with 19 injections were 12 and 6% in females and 12 and 4% in males, respectively, while in the group with 16 injections were 24 and 14% in females and 50 and 4% in males, respectively. The corresponding tumor incidences in the untreated controls were 2 and 2% in females and 8 and 2% in males, respectively. Histopathologically, the tumors were classified as fibromas, fibrosarcomas, myxosarcomas, fibromyxosarcomas, rhabdomyosarcomas and angiosarcomas in subcutis and squamous cell papillomas and carcinomas of skin. MBD is closely related to 4-(hydroxymethyl)benzenediazonium ion (HMBD), an ingredient of the cultivated mushroom Agaricus bisporus. The conversion of HMBD to MBD appears to be a distinct possibility. PMID- 2519977 TI - Technical considerations for use of the gastroepiploic artery for coronary artery surgery. AB - Disappointing long-term results with saphenous vein graft (SVG) for coronary bypass and excellent long-term results with internal mammary artery (IMA) to coronary bypass have prompted a search and research for other alternative coronary bypass conduits. Experience with the radial artery was disappointing due to early failure of those grafts. Likewise, conduits of artificial materials and homograft veins have not produced acceptable long-term results. PMID- 2519979 TI - Retrocaval route for coronary bypass grafting. PMID- 2519978 TI - Technique of pulmonary thromboendarterectomy for chronic pulmonary embolism. AB - Pulmonary embolism infrequently results in severe chronic pulmonary arterial obstruction. However, when it does, affected patients are significantly symptomatic and have shortened survival. Medical management has proven ineffective. In the majority of surgical reports, unilateral thoracotomy with distal pulmonary arteriotomies has been emphasized. The average operative mortality was 22%. In this article, we discuss various preoperative considerations and describe in detail a surgical approach using median sternotomy for bilateral pulmonary thromboendarterectomy with cardiopulmonary bypass, deep hypothermia and circulatory arrest. With this standardized approach in 103 consecutive patients from October 1, 1984, to September 20, 1988, the hospital mortality (death within 30 days or during hospitalization) has been 11.7%. PMID- 2519981 TI - Traumatic aortic transection: repair using left atrial to femoral bypass. AB - Traumatic aortic transection is a life-threatening surgical emergency. Therapy must be directed at rapid repair and prevention of postoperative complications, the most serious being paraplegia. Controversy over the optimal method of repair exists-specifically whether the use of a shunt modifies the outcome. Our series of 17 patients using left atrial to femoral bypass with the Biomedicus pump will be discussed. Preoperative preparation and operative technique will be outlined. Mortality in this series was 18%, the incidence of paraplegia was 0. PMID- 2519980 TI - Current management of mitral valve incompetence associated with coronary artery disease. AB - At a time when hospital mortality for adult cardiac operations is continuing to fall, the combined mitral valve coronary bypass subset remains at relatively high risk. Efforts to improve results should be directed toward a more general application of mitral reconstruction in this population, tailoring the type of repair to the pathological anatomy of valve dysfunction. Other promising therapeutic measures include the liberal use of reperfusion therapy in the acute papillary muscle dysfunction group, better selection patients for operation, and perhaps operative recommendation to a greater proportion of the more stable patients that previously were treated medically. Finally increasing the general awareness of this problem should hasten the development of improved management strategies. PMID- 2519982 TI - Epoxy compounds as a new cross-linking agent for porcine aortic leaflets: subcutaneous implant studies in rats. AB - The epoxy group of the epoxy compounds has an oxygen arm that can work as a flexible joint in a cross-linking bridge and can block not only the amino group but also the carboxy group of collagen peptide. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the anticalcification efficacy of the epoxy compounds as a cross-linking agent for xenograft bioprostheses. Porcine aortic leaflets were treated with 2% epoxy compounds and implanted in subcutaneous layer of 4-week-old rats. Measurement of calcium content showed that epoxy-treated implants received a minimal calcification: mean 0.64 micrograms/mg dry weight leaflet tissue (range 0.5-0.8; N = 7) at 1 month; mean 0.94 microgram/mg (range 0.3-1.3; N = 9) at 2 months; and mean 1.2 micrograms/mg (range 0.5-2.1; N = 10) at 3 months. Natural leaflets contained calcium of mean 0.43 microgram/mg. By contrast, glutaraldehyde preserved implants were severely calcified: mean 91 micrograms/mg (range 41-130; N = 11) at 1 month; mean 136 micrograms/mg (range 73-205; N = 16) at 2 months; and mean 170 micrograms/mg (range 90-214; N = 21) at 3 months. The epoxy compounds provide more pronounced anticalcification effects than the glutaraldehyde under pressure load-free subcutaneous circumstances. PMID- 2519983 TI - A simplified concept for a bileaflet atrioventricular valve that maintains annular-papillary muscle continuity. AB - We have developed a simplified concept for a bileaflet atrioventricular prosthesis that can be constructed from a simple sheet of glutaraldehyde preserved pericardium. The valve has no rigid ring or stent and no cloth sewing ring. Insertion of the valve reestablishes normal continuity between the annulus and the papillary muscles. We have replaced the mitral valve in nine dogs using this prosthesis. All valves have been competent with excellent valve opening areas as confirmed by echo-Doppler assessment. Studies up to 4 1/2 months have confirmed excellent hemodynamics and there has been no evidence of early tissue failure. Possible advantages of this simple valve design are improved hemodynamics, ease of construction and insertion, and low cost. PMID- 2519984 TI - Anticalcification treatments of bioprosthetic heart valves: in vivo studies in sheep. AB - Studies performed by other investigators have shown that a number of preimplantation processes inhibit the calcification of pieces of porcine aortic valves and of bovine parietal pericardium subcutaneously implanted in rats. To evaluate biological reactivity with these biomaterials functioning in an intracardiac position, mitral and tricuspid valve replacements were performed in young sheep to assess the effects of the following preimplantation processes: (1) surfactants, including sodium dodecyl sulfate, polysorbate-80, Triton X-100 and N lauryl sarcosine; (2) covalently bound aminohydroxypropane diphosphonic acid; (3) toluidine blue; and (4) incorporation of polyacrylamide into valvular tissues. Quantitative calcium analyses showed that only the surfactants substantially reduced calcification, and only in porcine aortic valvular bioprostheses. However, morphological studies showed that some of these agents also induced alterations that decreased the durability of the valves. Toluidine blue decreased calcification to a degree that was statistically significant, but not biologically important. Polyacrylamide incorporation and diphosphonate binding increased calcification. Thus, data regarding anticalcification treatments obtained from subcutaneous implantation studies in small animal models should be cautiously interpreted and validated by studies with intracardiac valvular implantation in large animals. PMID- 2519985 TI - Turbulent stresses downstream of porcine and pericardial aortic valves implanted in pigs. AB - Because late valve-related complications such as hemolysis and thromboembolic events are considered related to flow disturbances caused by the inserted valve, velocity fields downstream of aortic valve prostheses were studied in pigs. Acute hemodynamic evaluation of size 25-mm porcine and pericardial aortic valve prostheses 1 diameter downstream of the valve ring was performed using dynamic three-dimensional visualization of velocity profiles and spatial distribution of turbulence. Point blood velocity signals obtained with a 1-mm hot-film anemometer needle probe were used to compute Reynolds normal stresses (RNS) by calculation of the turbulent velocity energy of the axial velocity component in the systole. The porcine valves caused a skewed velocity and turbulence profile revealing mean spatial systolic RNS at 70 nm-2 +/- 35 nm-2 (+/- SD). The spatial maximum RNS was 275 +/- 139 nm-2. Corresponding values for the pericardial valves were 20 +/- 11 nm-2 and 72 +/- 46 nm-2. The pericardial valves revealed plug-shaped velocity profiles and turbulent profiles with slightly higher RNS values at the stent posts. From a hemodynamic point of view, these acute studies indicate superiority of the pericardial valves compared to the porcine valves. The turbulent stresses found in this study are of a magnitude that may cause blood corpuscular and endothelial damage. PMID- 2519986 TI - Evaluation of Pericarbon valve prosthesis: in vitro, ultrastructural, and animal studies. AB - Pericarbon, a new generation pericardial valve, is characterized by a single, three cuspal shaped pericardium sheet, which is sutured to a second sheet lining the inner surface of the plastic, low profile stent. A coating of hemocompatible carbon film covers all the exposed, nonbiological surfaces. Optimal preservation of collagen and graft cells is achieved by fresh tissue glutaraldehyde fixation and cusp shaping without mold. Accelerated fatigue testing showed a duration of over 150 million cycles, a figure much higher than that observed when current pericardial and porcine valves were tested with the same apparatus. Results of long-term (greater than 7 months, average 10.5) implantation in 20 sheep (13 mitral, 7 tricuspid) disclosed no case of mechanical failure, mild to moderate primary calcification in older explants, and significant fibrous tissue overgrowth only in the tricuspid position. Transmission electron microscopy studies revealed collagen and elastic fiber integrity, no significant plasma protein insudation, and well-preserved graft cells. Re-endothelialization by host cells was a regular finding on scanning electronic microscopy. Early ultrastructural nuclei of calcification were seen mostly on collagen fibers. Pericarbon presents basic changes in pericardial valve design, and optimal morphological preservation is obtained after industrial processing. Accelerated fatigue tests in vitro show long duration. At medium long-term animal experimental follow-up, mechanical failure was not observed; significant host tissue reaction occurred in the tricuspid but not in the mitral position; primary calcification increased progressively with time and involved mainly collagen fibers. PMID- 2519987 TI - Physiological consequences of normal atrioventricular conduction: applicability to modern cardiac pacing. AB - Properly timed atrial systole may alter systolic performance by the mechanism of Starling's law of the heart, which states that the extent of systolic myocardial fiber shortening is dependent on the degree of diastolic fiber stretch, or preload. However, the atrial contribution to physiological need and thus is critical in developing the proper cardiac output response to exercise. Current generations of permanent pacemakers, which may have a combination of dual-chamber and sensor technologies, will permit the restoration of normal cardiac physiology (AV synchrony and/or rate response) in most patients. PMID- 2519989 TI - The effects of malpractice litigation on prosthetic heart valve technology. PMID- 2519988 TI - Temporary epicardial pacing after open heart surgery: complications and prevention. AB - Temporary wires are routinely sutured to atrial and/or ventricular epimyocardium after open heart surgery. Despite the common problems of poor sensing or capture, dislodgement or retention, no criteria exists for proper placement or removal. This report describes clinical complications due to: failure of ventricular sensing, failure of ventricular capture, bleeding from right ventricular laceration with tamponade, avulsion of a side branch from a saphenous vein coronary bypass graft, and perforation of the superior epigastric artery. Appropriate placement of temporary wires for optimum function requires 2-cm electrode separation, application into both atrium and ventricle with a gentle redundant loop to exit near the midline, avoiding both coronary arteries and coronary artery bypass grafts. Gentle traction for removal is recommended on the day prior to discharge, especially for patients on antiplatelet or anticoagulant therapy. PMID- 2519990 TI - The Blalock-Taussig shunt: an analysis of trends and techniques in the fourth decade. AB - The original description of the Blalock-Taussig shunt was published in 1945 and represented the first direct surgical procedure for the treatment of cyanotic congenital heart disease. The present study analyzes the results of Blalock Taussig shunts performed at Duke University Medical Center during the fourth decade since the original description of the procedure. From 1975 to 1984, 53 classic and 24 modified Blalock-Taussig shunts were performed with a hospital mortality of 8%. These deaths occurred in critically ill patients with either pulmonary atresia or complex congenital cardiac lesions. The results of the early group (1975-1979) were compared to the late group (1980-1984) of patients. There was a greater proportion of infants less than 1 week of age in the late group, and the actuarial event-free shunt survival following operation was significantly better in the late group. This improvement in the late group was apparent both in patients receiving classic and modified Blalock-Taussig shunts and probably represents the effects of advances in microsurgical technique as well as improvement in the support of critically ill infants at the time of surgery by pediatric anesthesiologists and neonatologists. The data in the present study indicate that the mortality associated with Blalock-Taussig shunting is related to the condition of the patient at the time of surgery and the underlying cardiac pathology rather than the age of the patient at the time of shunting. The efforts to further reduce morbidity and mortality associated with Blalock-Taussig shunting should therefore be directed primarily to the support of infants during the preoperative and intraoperative phases of care. PMID- 2519991 TI - Pulmonary approach for closure of ventricular septal defect and resection of infundibular obstruction in malaligned ventricular septum. AB - Presented is the technique of closure through the pulmonary artery of the perimembranous ventricular septal defects and defects with malaligned septum as an alternative method to the transatrial or transventricular approach. The technique of infundibular resection without opening the right ventricle in cases of tetralogy of Fallot is also described. PMID- 2519992 TI - Pericardial flap-plasty for protection of the tracheal anastomosis in heart-lung transplantation. AB - Infection or dehiscence of the tracheal anastomosis remains a dreaded and almost always fatal complication following heart-lung transplantation (HLTX). A technique of pericardial flap-plasty combined with application of fibrin sealant and topical antibiotics was developed and applied in three patients undergoing HLTX. The method allows for safe protection of the anastomosis even in the presence of severe ischemia and partial necrosis of the donor trachea at the same time avoiding laparotomy for mobilization of the omentum. PMID- 2519994 TI - Cardiomyoplasty benefits in experimental myocardial dysfunction. AB - Beneficial effects of cardiomyoplasty have been documented and the use of this technique in the treatment of dilated cardiomyopathy have been suggested. This study was undertaken to evaluate the effectiveness of stimulated preconditioned latissimus dorsi muscle flaps wrapped around the heart in order to restore ventricular contractility in six adult mongrel dogs with induced myocardial dysfunction by administration of beta blockers and volume loading. Hemodynamic and two-dimensional echocardiographic evaluation were performed 1 week after the surgical procedure and immediately after heart failure induction. With synchronous pulse train electrical stimulation, cardiac output increased from 1.46 +/- 0.13 (+/- SD) to 2.01 +/- 0.16 L/min (p less than 0.01), pulmonary wedge pressure decreased from 15.5 +/- 1.2 to 11.3 +/- 1.6 mmHg (p less than 0.01) and left ventricular end-diastolic pressure from 18.3 +/- 2.4 to 13.5 +/- 1.4 mmHg (p less than 0.04). Echo derived left ventricular ejection fraction increased from 39.3 +/- 2.4 to 59.6 +/- 2.9% (p less than 0.01) and segmental wall shortening from 15.4 +/- 1.2 to 26.3 +/- 1.7% (p less than 0.01), inclusive when the muscle flap was wrapped only around the left ventricle. In conclusion, this study suggests that cardiomyoplasty may be an alternative method of treatment for irreversible cardiomyopathy, including in patients with a great cardiac enlargement in which muscle flap may only be wrapped partially around the heart. PMID- 2519993 TI - Pericardial repair of endocardial defect following regional endocardial resection for ventricular tachycardia. AB - Regional endocardial resection is the accepted surgical treatment for sustained monomorphic ventricular tachycardia. In patients requiring extensive endocardial resection, or with large aneurysms involving the interventricular septum, the resulting defect may result in weakened myocardium and, ultimately, ventricular septal defect or ventricular rupture. A new approach for repair of the resulting defect is proposed using an autogenous pericardial patch sutured to normal endocardium and included in the aneurysm repair. This technique was performed in six patients undergoing surgery for drug refractory ventricular tachycardia. All patients had large anterior left ventricular aneurysms with endocardial scar extending onto the septum. The large endocardial defect left after endocardial resection and aneurysmectomy was repaired with a pericardial patch. No intraoperative complications (e.g., suture line bleeding) were observed as a result of this technique. All patients are alive, and five of the six patients no longer have inducible ventricular tachycardia. An improvement in congestive heart failure symptoms at 1-9 months of follow-up was noted following surgery. We conclude that the pericardium can be safely used to cover endocardial defects resulting from regional endocardial resection for sustained ventricular tachycardia. PMID- 2519995 TI - Biochemical and functional correlates of myocardium-like transformed skeletal muscle as a power source for cardiac assist devices. AB - Skeletal muscles, such as the latissimus dorsi muscle, can be transformed to gain considerable fatigue resistance to be suitable either for cardiomyoplasty, or to power a cardiac assist device. Such transformation of the skeletal muscle can be achieved by low frequency electrical stimulation for several weeks. In this article, we reviewed the stimulation protocol, and subsequent histochemical, biochemical, and functional changes in the skeletal muscle, and compared them to those of the cardiac muscle. The parameters that should be useful for stimulating such a muscle to assist the heart are defined. The issues currently under study, including the optimal transformation parameters, the feasibility of working transformation, and the importance of device design to minimize vascular compromise of the muscle, are also discussed. It is concluded that there is a great potential to use the plasticity of skeletal muscle for clinical purposes, specifically by transforming the skeletal muscle to resemble the myocardium in order to use it either to replace or repair the myocardium, or as the endogenous power source for a cardiac assist device. PMID- 2519997 TI - Arterial cannulation and myocardial protection in severe diffuse aortic calcification. AB - A patient with diffuse and severe aortic calcification is described. The patient had a double vessel coronary disease and it was impossible to cannulate the ascending aorta or the femoral arteries for the cardiopulmonary bypass. Arterial cannulation was performed in the innominate artery and both mammary arteries were used during a short period of ventricular fibrillation. PMID- 2519996 TI - Endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis. AB - There is increasing evidence that the vascular endothelium is an important functional component of the blood vessel wall, actively participating in normal vascular physiology as well as the pathogenesis of vascular diseases such as atherosclerosis. The localized modulation of vascular endothelium to a nonadaptive functional state can be termed endothelial dysfunction. This article provides a brief overview of the multiple vital functions of endothelium, and a working concept of endothelial dysfunction especially as it relates to atherosclerosis and its thrombotic complications. PMID- 2519998 TI - Sternotomy closure with Parham bands. PMID- 2519999 TI - Surgical treatment of ascending aortic pathology. PMID- 2520000 TI - Current technique of the arterial switch procedure for transposition of the great arteries. AB - The arterial switch operation has recently become the preferred method of repair for patients with transposition of the great arteries in the majority of congenital heart centers. Concern regarding the late results in those patients undergoing atrial repairs has stimulated this major change in operative treatment. Although initially high, the current operative mortality has been reduced substantially to equal that of atrial repair in experienced institutions. The precise methods of coronary artery transfer, as well as aortic and pulmonary artery reconstruction have been refined to allow the routine performance of direct arterial repair within the first few weeks of life with low risk and excellent late survival. At the University of Michigan, a policy of arterial repair for all suitable infants with transposition of the great arteries with or without ventricular septal defect was adopted in July 1985. Although modifications in surgical technique have been made, the basic procedure has remained constant. This article reviews the current operative approach used in a consecutive series of 81 patients undergoing the arterial switch procedure. PMID- 2520002 TI - Posterior septal and right free-wall Kent pathways visualized in situ and removed at operation. AB - This article describes the first posterior septal and first and second right free wall pathways identified at operation for Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome and confirmed histologically. All pathways were found in the areas of preexcitation identified by pre and intraoperative mapping. They bridged the atrium and ventricle, and postoperative electrophysiological testing confirmed division of the pathways. Kent bundles may be identified at the time of surgery but they appear to be gossamer structures usually destroyed during surgical manipulation of the coronary sulcus. Visualization of the suspected bypass tract should not alter or limit the extent of surgical dissection. PMID- 2520001 TI - Antegrade/retrograde blood cardioplegia to ensure cardioplegic distribution: operative techniques and objectives. AB - This article details techniques of delivery of antegrade/retrograde blood cardioplegia to ensure its distribution to prevent ischemic damage during aortic clamping, and describes methods of using warm blood cardioplegia to "resuscitate" the heart when used to induce cardioplegia and "avoid reperfusion damage" when given just before aortic unclamping. A technique of rapid transatrial cannulation of the coronary sinus is described to permit safe, rapid, and simple use of retrograde cardioplegia and avoid right heart isolation. Theoretic objectives of these operative techniques are discussed, together with presentation of the specific methods of achieving the aforementioned goals of using blood cardioplegia for resuscitation, prevention, and avoidance of ischemic and reperfusion damage. The preliminary clinical experience with antegrade/retrograde cardioplegia is summarized, and these results have led to adoption of these techniques of blood cardioplegia as the preferred method of myocardial protection in all adult operations and in many pediatric cardiac procedures. PMID- 2520003 TI - Mitral valve repair in patients with elongated chordae tendineae. PMID- 2520004 TI - Surgical management of elongated chordae of the mitral valve. PMID- 2520005 TI - Valve replacement in children. PMID- 2520006 TI - Replacement of chordae tendineae with expanded polytetrafluoroethylene sutures. AB - One or more primary chordae tendineae of the anterior leaflet of the mitral valve was replaced with expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) sutures in 22 patients as part of mitral valve reconstructive procedure. One patient with flail anterior leaflet of the tricuspid valve also had replacement of chordae tendineae with a PTFE suture. These patients have been followed from 2 to 48 months, mean of 17 months. Valve function has been assessed annually by Doppler echocardiography. The PTFE chordae cannot be visualized by two- dimensional echocardiography but they seem to allow the leaflet to move normally during the cardiac cycle. The function of the repaired valve in these 23 patients has remained most satisfactory during the observed interval. We believe that PTFE sutures can be used safely to replace diseased chordae tendineae of the mitral and tricuspid valves when conventional techniques of chordal repair are not possible. PMID- 2520007 TI - Transatrial repair of double-chambered right ventricle. AB - Seventeen consecutive patients with double-chambered right ventricles underwent intracardiac repair from February, 1985 through March, 1989. Nine patients had an associated ventricular septal defect. A transatrial approach to the repair was utilized in all patients. Early postoperative right ventricular-to-left ventricular pressure ratio was a mean of 0.29, range 0.21 to 0.37. There were no hospital or late deaths. We conclude that transatrial repair of a double chambered right ventricle can be accomplished routinely with satisfactory results. PMID- 2520008 TI - Presternal muscle padding following midline sternotomy. AB - The authors present a modification to closure of the sternotomy incision. The procedure consists of detaching the pectoralis muscles on both sides of the edges of the sternum and uniting them presternally. PMID- 2520009 TI - Mechanical factors in the degeneration of porcine bioprosthetic valves: an overview. AB - Predilection of certain sites of the porcine bioprosthetic valve (PBV) leaflets to calcification and tissue disruption has provoked suggestions that design factors and mechanical stresses may be major reasons leading to degeneration. In recent years, computer based numerical models of PBVs have shown a close association between sites of leaflet calcification and disruption and sites of leaflet stress concentration. These numerical models have also provided a means through which methodical design optimization can be carried out. Increasing stent flexibility, for instance, was shown to lead to an overall reduction of mechanical stresses on the PBV leaflets. Reducing the stent height, on the other hand, was accompanied by an undesirable increase of overall leaflet stresses. Despite encouraging work in this field, more research is needed to further elucidate means by which the structural integrity of bioprosthetic valves can be preserved through a minimization of the adverse effects of mechanical stresses. PMID- 2520010 TI - Infective endocarditis in children: the changing profile. AB - This article discusses the principles for diagnosis and treatment of infective endocarditis in children. There has generally been a consistent volume of streptococcus endocarditis, the major lesion in pediatric endocarditis, but there has been an increase in Staphylococcus aureus endocarditis as well as neonatal endocarditis. Neonatal endocarditis is a severe form of the disease. PMID- 2520011 TI - Surgical problems of endocarditis in children. AB - Among 143 episodes of endocarditis experienced in children over a 38-year period from 1950 to 1988, 23 patients required surgical intervention, including 11 valve replacements, 2 valve repairs, 7 mycotic aneurysm resections (most related to coarctation or ductus), and 3 instances of debridement and repair of the ventricular septum. Left-sided vegetations associated with endocarditis have traditionally been managed surgically only if repeated emboli have occurred. Following the unfavorable outcome in several patients with large mobile vegetations on the mitral valve, we have adopted a more aggressive surgical approach to debride and repair left-sided valves involved with such vegetations. PMID- 2520012 TI - Surgery of right-sided endocarditis: valve preservation versus replacement. AB - Surgical treatment of right-sided endocarditis has in the past been centered on valve resection or resection with valve replacement. From 1981 to 1989, we attempted tricuspid valve repair in 19 patients with right-sided endocarditis. Fourteen of these were successful. The methods of valve repair and classification of the lesions that allow evaluation for repair are discussed, including the use of transesophageal echo and a hand-held color Doppler unit for intraoperative assessment. PMID- 2520013 TI - Valve replacement for infective endocarditis: an overview. AB - Infective endocarditis, both in the native and prosthetic valve, presents a tremendous challenge to the cardiologist and cardiovascular surgeon, as well as the infection specialist. The timing of surgery is critical but it would appear that aggressive surgical intervention is indicated when there is persistent sepsis, continuing congestive heart failure, signs of nonfatal emboli, or in association with certain organisms such as staphylococcus, pseudomonas, or fungal organisms. Cardiac catheterization would not appear to add greatly to the diagnosis except to document the presence of coronary artery disease. The risk of surgery in patients with no annular abscess is low but the recurrence rate tends to be highly dependent on the organism. Similarly, patients who have annular abscesses tend to provide the greatest challenge for the surgeon and despite the use of newer prosthetic and biological prostheses and an overall more aggressive approach, this pathological entity, particularly in conjunction with prosthetic valve endocarditis, has a high mortality and a high recurrence rate. PMID- 2520014 TI - Valve selection and choice in surgery of endocarditis. AB - The experience of the German Heart Center with valve selection and choice of size of prostheses for aortic root endocarditis is hereby reported. This experience includes 37 cases of aortic root endocarditis between 1986 and 1989. Mechanical, bioprosthetic, and homograft valves were used depending on the size, annular pathology, and general conditions related to the patient's medical history. Operative techniques are presented. Regardless of the type of valve replacement device, extensive annular destruction indicates a difficult and complex operation with long-term early and late results inferior to those in patients without annular abscess. PMID- 2520015 TI - Determinants of outcome in surgically treated patients with native valve endocarditis (NVE). AB - This is a multivariate analysis of patients treated with native valve endocarditis at Stanford University. The analysis indicates that the preoperative cardiovascular condition and other organ system functions are important determinants of postoperative outcome in conjunction with the pathology denoted at the time of operation, particularly annular abscess. These two negative factors suggest more intense scrutiny of patients preoperatively and a more aggressive approach to surgery before these two extremely adverse prognostic factors occur. Prevention of native valve endocarditis will also be a major key to overall improvement in the future for prophylaxis of dental hygiene and other minor surgery, particularly in patients with known valvular heart disease. PMID- 2520016 TI - Surgical treatment of prosthetic valve endocarditis with homograft aortic valve replacement. AB - This article presents the University of Alabama experience with homograft aortic valve replacement for prosthetic valve endocarditis. Of 117 patients who have undergone homograft aortic valve replacement since 1981, there has been a total of 22 patients who underwent operation for endocarditis. Sixteen were isolated valve replacements, three combined with other procedures, and three were aortic root replacements. When placed in a setting of active endocarditis, there have been no reoperations for endocarditis of the homograft valve. Surgical techniques are presented for the freehand sewn homograft as well as aortic root replacement. Prosthetic valve endocarditis is a highly lethal event and when aortic valve replacement is advised in this setting, we believe a homograft aortic valve should be implanted whenever possible. PMID- 2520017 TI - Bioprosthetic versus mechanical valve replacement in patients with infective endocarditis. AB - During the 5-year period, 1979-1984, at the Texas Heart Institute, 4,598 patients underwent cardiac valve replacement procedures of which 185 were for acute infective endocarditis. Staphylococcus and streptococcus accounted for 80% of the cases and congestive heart failure was a leading indication in 63%. The purpose of this article is to evaluate the recurrence of endocarditis dependent upon whether the patient had an Ionescu-Shiley bioprosthetic pericardial valve or a mechanical valve (St. Jude Medical). Actuarial freedom from both early and late reoperation was higher for prosthetic valves than bioprosthetic valve patients. We conclude that mechanical valves are the valves of choice in acute infective endocarditis which apparently is the results of less biologic tissue available for exposure to infection by the offending organisms. PMID- 2520018 TI - Left heart assist for ischemic postoperative ventricular dysfunction in an infant with anomalous left coronary artery. AB - A baby weighing 6.2 kg with anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery developed profound left ventricular failure during surgical repair. He was supported for 41 hours with centrifugal pump left heart assist. Recovery following cessation of ventricular assist was uneventful and ventricular function was improved compared to preoperative status. PMID- 2520019 TI - Pericardial flap-plasty for protection of the tracheal anastomosis in heart-lung transplantation. PMID- 2520021 TI - Sociobiology and the structural stability of behavior patterns. AB - A structural stability approach to population-genetic systems and to dynamic evolutionary games is attempted in order to examine the theoretical significance of sociobiological selection models. A criterion of weak selection is derived that is not restricted to differential reproduction in polymorphic systems but describes possible directions of evolutionary change in time scales governed by genetic mutation rates. The criterion applies to the problems of how the initial mutational basis of an adaptive trait may be established and how this may happen, for analogous traits, independently in different species. Two basic sociobiological concepts are reconsidered with reference to the criterion. It is shown that W. D. Hamilton's condition of increases in inclusive fitness due to altruistic interactions among kin expresses the structural instability of populations against the evolution of altruistic behavior. Using the dynamic approach to evolutionary game theory, it is demonstrated that if a behavioral phenotype is an evolutionarily stable strategy, it is structurally stable against perturbations of the fitness payoffs, provided selection is weak. These results are applied to material problems of the evolution of animal social behavior. PMID- 2520020 TI - Mean and quasideterministic equivalence for linear stochastic dynamics. AB - In linear, stochastic dynamics it is shown that the quasideterministic population size is equivalent to the mean population size. The quasideterministic dynamics are defined by the conditional infinitesimal mean of the process. The stochastic component of the dynamics includes both Gaussian and Poisson white noise, with amplitude coefficients proportional to the population size. Generalizations are given for nonautonomous coefficients and for distributed Poisson jump amplitudes. A counter example--an exactly integrable nonlinear jump model--shows that the equivalence result does not hold for nonlinear stochastic dynamics. PMID- 2520022 TI - How to estimate the efficacy of periodic control of an infectious plant disease. AB - Certain infectious plant diseases are controlled by inspection and subsequent hand removal of diseased parts. In this paper we give two sets of criteria from which one can conclude whether this control effort is adequate or not. These criteria do not require knowledge of the infection- or detection rate of the disease but only use the structure of the contact matrix. Computer experiments give a feeling of how many inspections are needed in order to draw a conclusion. PMID- 2520023 TI - Spectro-temporal interpretation of activity patterns of auditory neurons. AB - Sensory receptors transform an external sensory stimulus into an internal neural activity pattern. This mapping is studied through its inverse. An earlier paper showed that within the context of a neuron model composed of a linear filter followed by an exponential pulse generator and a Gaussian stimulus ensemble a unique "most plausible" first-order stimulus estimate can be constructed. This method, applicable only to neurons showing phase-lock, is extended to neurons without phase-lock. In this situation second-order spectro-temporal stimulus estimates are produced; examples are given from simulation. The method is applied to activity of neurons in the auditory system of the frog. PMID- 2520024 TI - Flow of aqueous humor in the canal of Schlemm. AB - A mathematical model is presented for the flow of aqueous humor in Schlemm's canal in the eye. The model introduces a canal segment between two collector channels as a rectangular channel with porous upper wall. Two cases have been considered in the model: (I) the inner porous wall of the canal is rigid; (II) the inner wall is collapsible. Analytical solution of the governing equation in case I is straightforward, whereas the nonlinear equation in case II is solved by an iterative procedure. Aqueous fluid pressure and flow profiles in the proposed model are drawn, and the effects of important parameters on these profiles are brought out and discussed. It is concluded that for case I, resistance to aqueous flow is influenced by the filtration constant of the trabecular and endothelial meshwork and that narrowing of the canal reduces outflow. In case II, an increase in intraocular pressure (IOP) or compliance coefficient of the canal inner wall increases the collapse of the canal, which offers increased resistance to flow resulting in the decreased flow whereas increasing filtration constant facilitates aqueous outflow. These theoretical results suggest that increased IOP or decreased rigidity of the inner wall may contribute to the development of increased resistance as observed in some cases of glaucoma and that increasing values of filtration constant may contribute to the facility of outflow increase. PMID- 2520025 TI - Hidden oscillations in generalized linear mammaillary compartmental models. AB - Oscillations due to complex eigenvalues, known to exist but difficult to detect, are sometimes totally hidden in the output of compartmental models, i.e., none of their modes appear in the output. An example is constructed of a class of linear compartmental models with complex eigenvalues, which have oscillating modes appearing in the output for some single-pool-input/single-pool-output (SpISpO) configurations, while for other such configurations all oscillations are totally hidden in the output. To generate the example, generalized mammillary compartmental models are defined in which a central pool exchanges with peripheral submodels called clusters, through individual connector pools, and their transfer functions are calculated corresponding to all SpISpO configurations. When such a model is repetitive, i.e., when it has identical peripheral clusters, and the input or the output is in the central pool, then it is zero-state equivalent, up to a multiplicative constant, with a reduced model having one peripheral cluster only. We analyze the visibility of an eigenvalue, i.e., whether or not the modes associated with it appear in the output, for repetitive generalized mammillary models. Sufficient conditions are given for such models to have oscillating modes appearing in the impulse response for some input/output configurations, while for other such configurations all oscillations are totally hidden, i.e., none appear in the output. A particularly interesting example is presented of a class of linear models with complex eigenvalues satisfying these conditions. This class has the structure of nonlinear models used to describe the process of protein synthesis and turnover. PMID- 2520026 TI - Analysis of fractal ion channel gating kinetics: kinetic rates, energy levels, and activation energies. AB - Ion channels in the cell membranes of the corneal endothelium, hippocampal neurons, and fibroblasts, and gramicidin channels in lipid bilayers have open and closed times that can be fit, in whole or part, by power law distributions. That is, the gating is self-similar when viewed at different time scales. Hence, kinetic processes at slow and fast time scales are not independent but rather are interrelated. To study how such a relationship can arise we analyze a closed in equilibrium open channel with the fractal dimension for leaving the closed state DCO approximately 2 and the fractal dimension for leaving the open state DOC approximately 1. This special case can be analyzed because it can be represented by equivalent Markov processes. We show that it is equivalent to Markov chains with forward and backward kinetic rate constants approximately equal at each stage, and forming an approximate geometric progression along the different stages. These kinetic rates determine the energy levels and activation energy barriers separating those levels. We find that there are many conformational states (substates) separated by high activation energy barriers. This is similar to the energy structure found for globular proteins such as myoglobin. However, the novel feature reported here is that the activation energy barriers are not independent but are interrelated and form an arithmetic progression. Because of this relationship the fast processes across the low activation energy barriers are linked to slow processes across the high activation energy barriers. PMID- 2520027 TI - Growth rate, population entropy, and perturbation theory. AB - This paper is concerned with the connection between two classes of population variables: measures of population growth rate--the Malthusian parameter, the net reproduction rate, the gross reproduction rate, and the mean life expectancy; and measures of demographic heterogeneity--population entropy. It is shown that the entropy functions predict the response of the growth rate parameters to perturbations in the age-specific fecundity and mortality schedule. These results are invoked to introduce the notion of environmental intensity. The intensity function, expressed in terms of the entropy parameters, is applied to give a comparative study of the effect of environmental factors on the dynamics of Swedish and French populations. PMID- 2520028 TI - The optimal sex ratio for age-structured populations. AB - A new nonlinear age-dependent model for age-structured sexual populations is introduced, based on two assumptions: (1) the birth function depends on the ages of the two parents; and (2) the death functions of the two sexes are composed of two types of additive terms depending on age and sex and on time evolution of population densities, respectively. Formal arguments are given that suggest that time-persistent age profiles may exist and that the intrinsic rate of growth for the two sexes is the same. If the ratio between the number of newborn females and the number of newborn males is equal to the square root of the ratio of the corresponding per capita birth rates, then the intrinsic rate of growth has an optimal value. The optimal sex ratio for the whole population is equal to the reciprocal value of the sex ratio at birth. PMID- 2520029 TI - The effect of a random initial value in neural first-passage-time models. AB - The effect of a random initial value is examined in several stochastic integrate and-fire neural models with a constant threshold and a constant input. The three models considered are approximations of Stein's model, namely: (1) a leaky integrator with deterministic trajectories, (2) a Wiener process with drift, and (3) an Ornstein-Uhlenbeck process. For model 1, different distributions for the initial value lead to commonly observed interspike interval distributions. For model 2, a discrete and a uniform distribution for the initial value are examined along with some parameter estimation procedures. For model 3, with a truncated normal distribution for the initial value, the coefficient of variation is shown to be greater than 1, and as the threshold becomes large the first-passage-time distribution approaches an exponential distribution. The relationships among the models and between them and previous models are also discussed, along with the robustness of the model assumptions and methods of their verification. The effects of a random initial value are found to be most pronounced at high firing rates. PMID- 2520030 TI - Similarity transformation approach to identifiability analysis of nonlinear compartmental models. AB - Through use of the local state isomorphism theorem instead of the algebraic equivalence theorem of linear systems theory, the similarity transformation approach is extended to nonlinear models, resulting in finitely verifiable sufficient and necessary conditions for global and local identifiability. The approach requires testing of certain controllability and observability conditions, but in many practical examples these conditions prove very easy to verify. In principle the method also involves nonlinear state variable transformations, but in all of the examples presented in the paper the transformations turn out to be linear. The method is applied to an unidentifiable nonlinear model and a locally identifiable nonlinear model, and these are the first nonlinear models other than bilinear models where the reason for lack of global identifiability is nontrivial. The method is also applied to two models with Michaelis-Menten elimination kinetics, both of considerable importance in pharmacokinetics, and for both of which the complicated nature of the algebraic equations arising from the Taylor series approach has hitherto defeated attempts to establish identifiability results for specific input functions. PMID- 2520031 TI - Successful invasion of a food web in a chemostat. AB - A food web in a chemostat is considered in which an arbitrary number of competitor populations compete for a single, essential, nonreproducing, growth limiting substrate, and an arbitrary number of predator populations prey on some or all of the competitor populations. Although any number of predator populations may prey on the same competitor population, each predator population preys on only one competitor population. The dynamics of substrate uptake is modeled by Lotka-Volterra or Michaelis-Menten (Holling type I or II), but the dynamics of competitor uptake is restricted to Lotka-Volterra. Based on certain parameters, the model predicts the asymptotic survival or extinction of each of the different populations and suggests how competitor and/or predator populations could successfully invade the chemostat with or without causing a diverse ecosystem to crash. Similarly, it suggests how the elimination of certain populations could result in a more diverse or less diverse system. PMID- 2520032 TI - Biological growth and spread modeled by systems of recursions. I. Mathematical theory. AB - We study the asymptotic behavior of solutions to a system of recursions u in+1 = Qi[mu n], i = 1, ..., k. The vector operator Q has the origin theta and a positive vector beta as fixed points and is defined for vector-valued functions bounded between theta and gamma where gamma greater than or equal to beta. In addition, Q is order-preserving, commutes with translation, and is continuous in the topology of uniform convergence on compact subsets. Let theta less than or equal to pi much less than beta, and suppose that for all pi much less than alpha much less than beta, Q(n) alpha]----beta as n----infinity. If u0 much greater than pi on a sufficiently large ball and has bounded support, then un propagates with a speed c*(xi) in the direction of the unit vector xi as n----infinity. In certain cases, c*(xi) can be calculated explicitly. The results generalize those of a scalar equation studied by Weinberger. PMID- 2520033 TI - Biological growth and spread modeled by systems of recursions. II. Biological theory. AB - The mathematical theory developed in Part I is applied to a selection-migration model in population genetics with sex-linked locus and to the host-vector or venereal disease epidemic model. In both models, a constant c*(xi) is found for each unit vector xi. The mathematical results imply that under certain initial conditions, the frequency of the advantageous gene in the male and female gametic outputs or the epidemic will spread at a speed c*(xi) in the direction xi as time goes to infinity. Time is measured in discrete nonoverlapping generations. In most cases, we can find a formula for c*(xi). PMID- 2520034 TI - Toxicovigilance--the need for concern. PMID- 2520035 TI - Somatization of depression in psychiatric out-patients. AB - The severity of anxiety and depression in 72 patients presenting with somatic complaints to the psychiatric clinic were assessed after excluding organic illnesses. Majority of the patients were females, between 15 to 34 years of age and came from lower socio-economic background. A high percentage of patients were brought up by dominant mothers and the married patients had passive husbands or active wives controlling the family. Generally the severity of depression was correlated with the severity of anxiety (C.C = 0.704, P less than 0.01). Majority of the patients were found to have both mixed anxiety depressive symptoms and the anxiety symptoms masking the underlying depressive symptomatology. PMID- 2520036 TI - Experience with hypotensive anaesthesia in a peripheral general hospital. AB - Twenty patients undergoing various surgical procedures were anaesthetised using hypotensive anaesthesia using labetalol and halothane. The technique is safe, predictable and cheap. This technique also offers the advantage of usage of less blood, thus minimising the complications of transfusion induced diseases like hepatitis and AIDS. PMID- 2520037 TI - Digoxin toxicity: clinical and laboratory assessment. AB - A prospective study to correlate clinical digoxin toxicity with serum digoxin levels was carried out in 67 patients of whom 24 were clinically toxic and 43 were asymptomatic. The patients were clinically diagnosed to be toxic based on typical cardiac arrhythmias (n = 11) or non-cardiac symptoms (n = 13). Blood samples were collected at least six hours after the last digoxin dose and the sera assayed for digoxin using a radioimmunoassay method. The mean serum digoxin level in the toxic group (x1 = 2.09 +/- 1.28 ng/ml) was significantly higher than in the non-toxic group (x2 = 1.20 +/- 0.75 ng/ml), p less than 0.01. All the non toxic patients had serum digoxin levels below 3 ng/ml. However, there was a considerable overlap of serum digoxin levels between the two groups of patients. Serum level cannot be the sole criterion in diagnosing digoxin toxicity. Nevertheless, raised serum digoxin levels especially above 3 ng/ml, in the presence of suggestive clinical features is strongly suggestive of toxicity. PMID- 2520039 TI - Yaws revisited. AB - An outbreak of yaws consisting of ten active cases in Baling is described. Yaws should be suspected and considered in the differential diagnosis of sores in the limbs of children living in rural areas. The clinical features of yaws are highlighted to help in the recognition of the condition for those unfamiliar with the condition. PMID- 2520038 TI - Clinical and endocrine profiles of 62 Malaysian women with polycystic ovary syndrome. AB - 62 cases of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCO) were reviewed with regards to their clinical and endocrine features. The subgroup of patients with acanthosis nigricans (AN) was further studied in detail. The prevalence of the syndrome was significantly higher in the Indian (35.5% of cases). Obesity, AN, hirsutism, non insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) and raised level of serum testosterone were present in 77.1%, 74%, 79%, 21% and 48% of the cases respectively. Patients with AN was associated with higher body mass index, serum testosterone level, and prevalence of hirsutism and NIDDM than patients without AN. These observations are in keeping with the hypothesis that hyperinsulinemia may be of importance in the pathogenesis of a sub-group of PCO associated with insulin resistant states. PMID- 2520040 TI - The prevalence of Enterobius vermicularis amongst primary school children in Pulau Ketam, Selangor--1988. AB - A survey was conducted to investigate the prevalence of Enterobius vermicularis in 1352 Chinese children between the ages of 6-12 years from the three National Type Chinese Primary Schools in Pulau Ketam in 1988, using the scotch-tape technique on three successive days. The overall prevalence was high (56.88%). The prevalence in Sin Bin School was significantly lower (50.86%) compared to the other two schools (56.60% and 61.04%). Prevalence was significantly higher amongst the 6-7 years age group (61.61%-70.18%) compared to other age groups (47.9%-59.29%). There was no difference in the prevalence between the boys and girls being 56.15% and 57.55% respectively. PMID- 2520041 TI - Smoking behaviour, knowledge and opinion of medical students. AB - On the basis of a questionnaire on smoking behaviour, knowledge and attitudes administered to medical students in the University of Malaya in July 1987, the prevalence of smoking was found to be low (10%) among medical students. Smokers and non-smokers were equally well informed about common smoking complications. Most students, irrespective of smoking status, felt that they would as future doctors, often advise sick smokers against smoking. In contrast, less than half would do so for healthy smokers who do not themselves raise the question of smoking. The students' personal smoking behaviour also influenced their view of their professional role. Appropriate values, attitudes and a preventive approach towards smoking need to be further developed in the medical students' thinking and behaviour. PMID- 2520042 TI - The prevalence of skin manifestations in thyrotoxicosis--a retrospective study. AB - The presenting features of 236 thyrotoxic patients seen in the thyroid clinic were reviewed. 18.65% of these patterns had one or more dermatological complaints at presentation. There was no specific difference in this group of patients when compared with the general hyperthyroid population with regard to age, race, sex, duration of hyperthyroidism or biochemical indices of thyrotoxicosis. The two major complaints were itching and alopecia. The prevalence of pruritus at 6.4% in our series was identical to that of other workers, but we had a much lower occurrence of alopecia at 2.6%. The diagnosis of thyrotoxicosis was delayed in two patients in whom the only major complaint was pruritus. These symptoms cleared quickly when these patients became euthyroid. However there were other patients who noted hair loss with anti-thyroid medications. The incidence of vitiligo, eczema, onycholysis in our series was much lower those quoted in the Western literature The occurrence of pretibial myoxoedema in our series is similar to that of other workers from this region. The other miscellaneous manifestations include urticaria, xanthelasma and systemic lupus erythematosis. In conclusion we feel the cutaneous manifestations of hyperthyroidism are common in our patients. PMID- 2520043 TI - Chemotherapy in nasopharyngeal carcinoma: review of results at University Hospital, Kuala Lumpur. AB - Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is one of the commonest presentation of head and neck cancers in Malaysia, especially in the Chinese. The standard treatment is radical radiotherapy to the post-nasal space and the neck. Chemotherapy is given to patients with primary advanced disease and to patients with recurrence. The study reviews results of chemotherapy given to 33 patients at the University Hospital, Kuala Lumpur, over the last four years. PMID- 2520044 TI - Acute viral myocarditis, four cases in three weeks. AB - Four cases of acute viral myocarditis were diagnosed within three weeks. The clinical features, electrocardiography, cardiac enzymes and other laboratory investigations are described. PMID- 2520045 TI - Massive pericardial effusion in primary hypothyroidism. AB - A 44 year old lady with primary hypothyroidism presented with massive pericardial effusion without cardiac tamponade. Pericardial tap was done twice and the effusion resolved as the hypothyroid state improved. She remained hypertensive despite the euthyroid state. She was discharged well with L-thyroxine and anti hypertensive therapy. PMID- 2520046 TI - Ludwig's angina--a case report. AB - Ludwig's angina is a potentially lethal oro-facial cellulitis due to oro-dental infection. The aetiology and management of a case of Ludwig's angina are briefly discussed. PMID- 2520047 TI - Mediastinal abscess and pericarditis complicating retropharyngeal abscess--a case report. PMID- 2520048 TI - Female breast engorgement on ranitidine--a case report. AB - A 60 year old woman with chronic duodenal ulcer not responding to Cimetidine, was changed to Ranitidine. She had symptomatic improvement, but had bilateral breast engorgement and tenderness for which treatment was discontinued. A therapeutic trial on a second occasion had the same side effect which came on more rapidly and quickly. This complication in such severe form and recurrence on rechallenge requiring withdrawal of drug was observed for the first time with any H2 receptor antagonist. PMID- 2520049 TI - Primary adenocarcinoma of the fallopian tube--a case report. AB - Adenocarcinoma of the fallopian tube is a rare clinical entity. The incidence of primary tubal carcinoma has been reported as varying from 0.1 to 1.0 percent of all gynaecological malignancies. In Malaysia the incidence is unknown. A case of primary adenocarcinoma of the fallopian tube is reported. PMID- 2520050 TI - Traumatic pseudocyst of the pancreas--a case report. AB - Blunt trauma to the pancreas is not common. The pancreatic injury can range from simple bruising to complete transection often associated with other visceral injuries. Pseudocyst of the pancreas is a late complication presenting usually within six weeks of the injury. The treatment of choice is distal pancreatectomy. PMID- 2520051 TI - Therapeutic intervention scoring system in medical intensive care. PMID- 2520052 TI - Fulminant hepatitis due to infectious mononucleosis. PMID- 2520053 TI - Domiciliary urethral catheterisation. PMID- 2520055 TI - Cord/spine motion in experimental spinal cord injury. AB - We examined cord motion and cord-spine coupling associated with the axial tension and dorsal impact models of spinal cord injury. In 20 cats, distraction forces up to 15 kg were applied. Five microliters of radiopaque agent was injected into the central cord at C4-C7 (14 cats) and T6-L1 (6 cats) at 2-mm intervals. In 20 cats, 300 g/cm impacts were delivered after injection of contrast at 2-mm intervals from the impact point. Trials were conducted under fluoroscopy. At 5-kg distraction, vertebral motion averaged 2.12 mm and cord motion averaged 1.03 mm (coupling ratio = .49). At 10-kg coupling increased to .75. Between 10 and 15-kg distraction, the amount of increase in cord length slowed, as did the ratio (.59). Differences in length between load groups were significant at most levels, and motion corresponded with histologic injury reported previously. In the thoracolumbar region, minimal spine motion and no cord motion occurred. Spine motion was not seen with dorsal impact although cord motion at 2 mm from impact averaged 1.3 mm/300 g/cm, which decreased away from the impact point. The spinal cord has limited elasticity, which may be related to injury. Because spine and cord motion occur in clinical injury, experimental models need to incorporate this element. PMID- 2520056 TI - Postoperative stabilization of the posttraumatic thoracic and lumbar spine: a review of concepts and orthotic techniques. AB - A review of 109 case histories of patients who had undergone a spine fusion and/or posterior instrumentation procedure for thoracic and/or lumbar spine trauma was performed with respect to efficacy of several postoperative external splinting techniques. These data formed the basis for a review of external spinal splinting techniques. The type of orthosis that appears to offer the most efficacious immobilization and maximum patient comfort for fractures in the upper thoracic region in a body shell jacket extending from the submental and suboccipital regions to the lumbar region (modified Minerva jacket). To gain a lower point of fixation in patients with mid-to-low lumbar fractures, it was found that an extended body shell or an extension of a body jacket to one leg (hip spica) was necessary. Thoracic and thoracolumbar injuries may be stabilized with either a Jewett brace or a body jacket. The lack of maintenance of the cylindrical body shell, as well as excessive discomfort, make the Jewett brace and similar orthotic devices a second choice to body shell jackets for fractures in this region. The application of plastic polymer (Thermoplast) to spine splinting techniques offers the patient increased comfort and stability, as well as facilitating easy application and a more snug fit. PMID- 2520054 TI - Radicular pain after Harrington instrumentation. AB - Three patients developed lumbar radicular pain after Harrington instrumentation and posterior spinal fusion for idiopathic scoliosis. They required a second surgical procedure for nerve root decompression. The presenting complaint after the initial procedure was persistent radicular and buttock pain. Subsequent evaluation revealed direct compression by the inferior hook. At surgery the inferior hook was noted to be encased in bone and had imploded into the canal after a stress fracture of the lamina. Removal of the entire Harrington instrumentation resulted in effective relief of nerve root compression and resolution of radicular pain. To avoid this occurrence the addition of a leg extension to a postoperative brace has been instituted for procedures involving instrumentation to L5 and occasionally to L4. PMID- 2520057 TI - Fatal cardiac tamponade resulting from a central venous catheter: a case for open chest cardiac resuscitation. AB - A computer Medline search has failed to reveal any cases of cardiac tamponade secondary to central venous catheter placement in spinal deformity patients. It has become apparent that this complication should be thought of more frequently, however. The anatomic variation of spinal deformity patients may contribute to this problem. Spine deformity patients have abnormal chest-wall compliance secondary to their deformity, and abnormal position of their intrathoracic organs. This may alter the effectiveness of closed-chest cardiac resuscitation in this patient population. PMID- 2520059 TI - Experimental spinal cord injury produced by axial tension. AB - Fifty cats underwent spine distraction with forces applied until the evoked potential (EP) amplitude was reduced 50 or 95%. Neurologic status and EPs were monitored for up to 6 weeks. Fifty percent reduction occurred at (x) = 4.2-kg distraction/kg body weight (BW); 95% at 7.4 kg distraction/kg BW: differences were significant (p less than .05). The 50% group showed quadriparesis at 24 hours (Tarlov 1), improving by 4 weeks (x = 3). Ninety-five percent-group animals were quadriplegic initially, progressing to Tarlov 2.2. Residual EP changes occurred, particularly in the 95% group. Early histologic changes included central necrosis and neuronal chromatolysis. Later, axon disruption was observed, with cystic degeneration and gliosis at 4-6 weeks. Tissue damage correlated with ultimate neurologic status. Correlations between latency changes and early neurologic status, and between amplitude and histology were observed. The axial tension model may be of value in the study of spinal cord injury mechanisms. PMID- 2520058 TI - Dural penetration by interspinous process segmental spine instrumentation: case report. AB - A case of pseudo-meningocele complicating posterior spine fusion with interspinous process segmental spinal instrumentation is presented. The L rod rotated postoperatively 90 degrees and penetrated the dura. The presenting symptoms were pain accompanied by fixed lumbar and hip flexion contractures that improved dramatically after removal of the penetrating part. The unusual course as well as the treatment and recommendation for prevention are discussed. PMID- 2520060 TI - Brachial plexus injuries associated with cervical spine fractures. AB - The concomitant occurrence of brachial plexus injuries and cervical spine fractures in three recent patients is reviewed. The injuries included a fracture or dislocation of the upper portion of the cervical spine and damage to the upper roots of the brachial plexus. All of the patients had associated head injuries and two suffered a spinal cord injury. Recognition of the brachial plexus injury was delayed in each case because of the associated injuries. Probable mechanisms of injury include forced lateral bending of the cervical spine, with or without rotation, combined with forcible depression of the shoulder. All three patients required surgical fusion and/or halo bracing. Two have persistent Erb-type palsies. Brachial plexus injuries must be suspected in all cervical spine injury patients. PMID- 2520061 TI - Intermittent parasympathetic symptoms in lumbar spinal stenosis. AB - Symptoms related to autonomic nervous dysfunction are uncommon in spinal stenosis. Involvement of nerve roots S2-S5 has previously been reported only in a few cases. Of great interest is the occurrence of phenomena such as intermittent penile erections and fecal incontinence on walking in patients with compromise of the lower lumbar spinal canal. We report on two patients, one of whom presented because of fecal incontinence and the other with penile erections on walking. In both cases, these manifestations resolved after decompressive laminectomy. These patients are compared to six other patients, with parasympathetic disturbances due to lumbar spinal stenosis, described previously. PMID- 2520062 TI - Intervertebral disc space infection and osteomyelitis due to Hemophilus species: report of two cases and review. AB - Vertebral osteomyelitis and intervertebral disk space infections in adults are most often caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Escherichia coli. Despite an increasing number of cases caused by other gram-negative bacteria, documented spinal infections with Hemophilus species remain exceedingly rare. All prior cases have involved the lumbar spine between the L2 and L4 levels. None has required surgical decompression or stabilization. We report two adult patients with intervertebral disk space infections and osteomyelitis outside the lumbar region. One patient, who had a Hemophilus influenzae infection of the T9-T10 disk space, was successfully treated with intravenous antibiotics and external bracing. Another patient, who had a Hemophilus aphrophilus infection that destroyed the C5-C6 disk space and adjacent vertebral bodies, required surgical debridement and stabilization in addition to antibiotic therapy and halovest immobilization. Neither patient had a significant underlying illness or extra spinal source of infection. The clinical features and spinal levels affected in these two patients have expanded our knowledge of the spectrum of disease caused by Hemophilus species. PMID- 2520064 TI - Extreme lateral lumbar disc herniation. PMID- 2520063 TI - The influence of contoured distraction rods on thoracic sagittal curves. AB - The influence of sagittally contoured rods on thoracic sagittal curves was studied in 19 patients who underwent fusion and instrumentation for right thoracic idiopathic scoliosis. Group I included 13 patients who underwent fusions with contoured rods and no releases. Group II included six patients who had anterior or posterior spinal release procedures in addition to contoured rods and fusion. Harrington distraction rods were contoured to either increase, decrease, or maintain preoperative thoracic kyphosis. The number of kyphotic curves that changed in the intended direction, the degree of change, the relationship of the rod contour to the patient's postoperative kyphosis, and the postoperative rod contour were compared. Thirty-eight percent of the curves in group I underwent change in the unintended direction while 62% of group I curves and 100% of group II curves changed in the intended direction. The curves that demonstrated intended change exhibited variability in the relationship of the postoperative kyphosis to the rod contour. In no case did the postoperative rod kyphosis exceed the measured intraoperative rod kyphosis. PMID- 2520065 TI - Solitary plasmacytomas of the spine: a review of 84 cases. AB - In order to document the differences in survival between patients with solitary plasmacytoma and those with multiple myeloma involving the spine, we have reviewed the cases of 12 patients with solitary plasmacytoma of the vertebral column treated at the University of Iowa and an additional 72 cases reported in the literature. All patients were followed for 2 years or more without evidence of disseminated disease. The mean disease-free interval for 84 patients was 76 months; 44% of the patients developed disseminated disease, 2-13 years after diagnosis. The 5-year, disease-free survival was 60%. In our study group, survival following dissemination was limited, with a mean of 17 months. This review of 84 cases of solitary plasmacytoma of the spine confirms the significantly greater survival of patients with solitary plasmacytoma, and supports the use of radiotherapy as the treatment modality of choice. PMID- 2520066 TI - The stability of isometric trunk flexion measurements. AB - The purpose of this study was to determine (a) the number of isometric trunk flexions needed to obtain a stable measure of exertion, (b) the least variable parameter to be used to quantify maximum isometric trunk flexion, and (c) the time interval needed to obtain the least variable measure of maximum isometric flexion. Ten adult males served as subjects. Each subject performed five trials of one maximum isometric trunk flexion. Each trial lasted for 5 s. The results showed (a) only one trial is required to obtain a stable measure of the maximum torque generated during isometric flexion, (b) more than one trial is required to obtain a stable measure of the average torques, (c) maximum torques are more stable measures than average torques, (d) the first second of a 5-s exertion does not yield stable measurements, and (e) individuals adopt different exertion strategies during each trial. PMID- 2520067 TI - Repair of spinal dural defects with vicryl (polyglactin 910) mesh. AB - This study examined and compared the effectiveness of woven vicryl (polyglactin 910) mesh and lyophilized cadaver dura (Lyodura) for the repair of spinal dural defects. A woven vicryl mesh was used to repair spinal dural defects in 16 mongrel dogs. As an internal control, all animals had a separate dural incision that was closed with 9-0 vicryl suture. Animals were killed, and results were evaluated at 4, 8, 12, and 24 weeks. The repair of dural defects was achieved in all animals, and there were no cases of pseudo-meningocele formation, cerebrospinal fluid leakage, or postoperative infection. The vicryl mesh served as a latticework for formation of a neodural membrane. Inflammatory or reactive response to vicryl mesh was minimal, and no adhesion to underlying neural structures was noted. The neodural membrane formed in the animals in which lyophilized dura was employed was usually thicker than those in which vicryl mesh was used and was associated with thick arachnoid-neural adhesions in two of eight animals. We believe vicryl mesh is a suitable dural substitute and offers promise for use in clinical situations. PMID- 2520068 TI - Analysis of lumbar lordosis in posterior spine fusions for idiopathic scoliosis. AB - Previous reports are inconclusive regarding changes in the lumbar region after Harrington rod distraction and posterior spinal fusion for idiopathic scoliosis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of spinal fusion on the lumbar region, particularly the overall lumbar lordosis, the lumbar lordosis in and below the fused segment, the sacro-horizontal angle, and the sagittal plane alignment of the spine. Sixty-six patients under 21 years of age with idiopathic scoliosis who had spine fusion extending to the lumbar vertebrae using only Harrington distraction instrumentation were evaluated. The total lordosis, sacro horizontal angle, and sagittal plane alignment remained relatively constant. The lordosis within the fusion decreased, and lordosis caudal to the fusion, including the last fused vertebra, increased as the lower hook placement site moved caudally. PMID- 2520069 TI - Dural lacerations and thoracolumbar fractures. AB - In the pre-CT era, Miller et al. reported the presence of dural lacerations (DL) and herniations of the cauda equina in a group of patients with thoracolumbar fractures that involved separation of the pedicles, as detailed on plain radiographs. Recently, these injuries have been well characterized on CT scan. We retrospectively reviewed our series of thoracolumbar burst fractures to assess the predictive value of CT for the presence of a DL, and the clinical significance of this finding. Twenty-five patients with 27 levels of injury were assessed. Dural lacerations were noted in eight (32%) of the cases. These were significantly associated with posterior element fractures noted on axial CT, and with motor neurologic deficits. There was no correlation between the presence of a DL and the degree of spinal canal compromise. Dural lacerations occur relatively frequently in patients with thoracolumbar fractures that require operative management. Their presence should be of particular concern in those cases with a motor deficit on presentation and a posterior element fracture on axial CT scan. PMID- 2520071 TI - Effects of epidural electrical stimulation modalities on spinal cord function and morphology in cats. AB - The safety of direct electrical stimulation to the spinal cord as used in spinal cord monitoring is controversial. This investigation was undertaken to determine the critical condition of continuous electrical stimulation over a period of 30 min with varying intensities and pulse durations, and the level of safety of intermittent stimulation of 100 pulses with 10 mA current of 0.3 msec duration with varying resting intervals. The spinal cord was evaluated by spinal cord evoked potentials (SCEP) recording and histological examination. The intensity of continuous stimulation greater than 10 mA of 0.3 msec duration resulted in permanent changes in SCEP, focal colliquative necrosis of the cord, and acceleration of the permeability of the intrinsic vessels. In the intermittent stimulation with 1-min resting intervals, spinal cord lesions were not observed. PMID- 2520070 TI - Tumors of the thoracic and lumbar spine: surgical treatment via the anterior approach. AB - We are reporting our experience in 23 patients with tumors of the thoracic or lumbar vertebrae treated via surgical anterior decompression and stabilization. Seventeen patients had metastatic disease and were treated with vertebral body resection followed by stabilization with anterior polymethylmethacrylate and threaded Harrington rods with sacral distraction hooks. Six patients had primary tumors and, following tumor resection and partial vertebral body resection, had autogenous bone graft struts placed anteriorly as well as posterior instrumentation. Posterior instrumentation was transpedicular one level above and below in the lumbar spine, and segmental hooks and rods three levels above and below in the thoracic spine. Nineteen patients presented with severe unremitting pain, and 16 had neurologic deficits, including 7 who were unable to ambulate. Radiation therapy was used as an additional treatment and routinely begun 2 weeks postoperatively. All patients survived the surgery, and none had neurologic deterioration immediately postoperatively. Eight patients had died at the time of review. The mean survival was 14 months and ranged from 6 to 38 months. Of the surviving patients, follow-up ranged from 24 to 40 months with an average follow up of 30 months. Pain relief was excellent in all but two patients (93%). Motor recovery occurred to some extent in all patients, and only one remained nonambulatory. Complications were minor in three patients (13%) and major in one (4%). Tumor recurrence with neurologic deterioration occurred in two patients. We are very encouraged by these results, and we recommend that patients with tumors of the vertebral body with neurologic deficit or severe unremitting pain be studied with MRI and/or myelography and CT. The patients with gross vertebral destruction and greater than 50% collapse of the vertebral body, those in need of a tissue diagnosis, or those with major neurologic deficit can be effectively treated by anterior decompression and stabilization. PMID- 2520072 TI - The value of computerized tomography in determining lumbar facet joint orientation. AB - The reliability of assessing facet joint obliquity from standard CT scans in the lumbar spine was studied. There was no significant difference in repeated measurements by one single examiner, nor in measurements made by different examiners. Measurement of facet joint obliquity from CT scans made on different occasions was not significantly different either. This reproducibility occurred despite the fact that adjacent CT scans from one joint extremity to the other showed variation in obliquity of about 11%. PMID- 2520073 TI - Rationale for the management of flexion-distraction injuries of the thoracolumbar spine based on a new classification. AB - A new classification of flexion-distraction injuries of the spine is described based on the bony and soft tissue injuries to the posterior complex and the anterior column. In addition, the classification includes the status of the vertebral body, that is, the association of a wedge-compression fracture or a burst injury. The soft tissue component provides a rationale for surgical intervention. Most injuries were treated by compression instrumentation, but it is recommended that those injuries associated with a burst component require distraction instrumentation. PMID- 2520074 TI - Equilibrial dysfunction in scoliosis--cause or effect? AB - To determine whether equilibrial dysfunction is the cause or effect of idiopathic scoliosis, patients with idiopathic scoliosis, congenital scoliosis, and comparable controls were tested, using clinical postural tests and electronystagmographic recording of spontaneous and positional nystagmus, smooth visual pursuit, and rotation-induced nystagmus. The scoliosis patients were stratified as progressive or nonprogressive. Dysfunctional responses occurred in the idiopathic progressive and congenital progressive groups, and in two idiopathic non-progressive patients whose curves subsequently deteriorated. These results suggest that equilibrial dysfunction is characteristic of patients with progressive curves, regardless of etiology, implying that it is secondary to the curve rather than a primary event. Seven patients with progressive curves undergoing surgical correction and stabilization were tested preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively. No change in the responses occurred, suggesting the dysfunction persists at least 6 months following arrest of progression. PMID- 2520075 TI - Back injuries in college athletes. AB - Frequency and types of back injuries sustained by intercollegiate athletes were determined by examining medical records of 4,790 athletes that competed in 17 varsity sports over a 10-year period. These athletes sustained 333 back injuries, an injury rate of 7 per 100 participants. Injury rates were significantly higher in football and gymnastics, and 80% of the injuries occurred in practice, 6% in competition, and 14% during preseason conditioning. Muscle strains occurred with much greater frequency than other types of injuries, and acute back injuries were much more prevalent (59%) than overuse injuries (12%) or injuries associated with pre-existing conditions (29%). PMID- 2520076 TI - Intradural herniation of a lumbar intervertebral disc. AB - Intradural disc herniation of an intervertebral disc is a rare occurrence. The clinical presentation varies in severity and a high level of suspicion is necessary to determine the diagnosis. This is a case report of an intradural disc herniation in a young male. A review of the literature identifying the pathophysiologic mechanisms of intradural disc herniation, diagnostic imaging techniques, and treatment is presented. PMID- 2520077 TI - Nonglucocorticoid-induced lumbar epidural lipomatosis: a case report and review of literature. AB - A case of nonglucocorticoid-induced lumbar epidural lipomatosis in a middle-aged black woman with neurogenic claudication is presented. The etiology, diagnosis, management, and outcome are discussed in detail. PMID- 2520078 TI - Tethered spinal cord. PMID- 2520080 TI - Magnetic resonance imaging of posttraumatic spinal ligament injury. AB - We evaluated the role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the detection of ligament injury in 37 patients after acute traumatic spinal injury. Thirty-five patients had fractures, one had neurologic deficit with normal x-rays, and one had evidence of cervical instability on flexion/extension plain films. MRI examinations were performed acutely (average 10.8 d after injury) using T1- and T2-weighted multiplanar imaging. Two radiologists blindly evaluated all MRI examinations. Subsequently, 35 plain films, 16 tomograms, and 30 computed tomography (CT) scans were also evaluated. Nineteen patients were considered to have torn posterior ligaments on the basis of their clinical, radiographic and surgical findings. MRI detected ligament damage in 17. All patients considered to have intact posterior ligament complexes clinically and radiographically had no evidence of ligament damage on MRI. T2-weighted sequences were essential for detection of ligament injury. We conclude that MRI is an accurate method for assessment of the integrity of spinal ligaments after acute trauma. PMID- 2520079 TI - Pathoanatomical and surgical findings in cervical spinal injuries. AB - The pathomorphology of normal and degenerated human cervical spines that had been subjected to trauma was studied in detail by surface-cryoplaning of frozen autopsy specimens. Four cervical spines that had been surgically fused were also sectioned after removal of the metal. In young individuals, disc ruptures occurred that resulted in compromise of the vertebral canal. In degenerated spines, vertebral endplate ridges were frequently fractured. These injuries resulted in encroachment on the spinal cord as well as on the nerve roots in the foramen. Osteophytes from the uncinate processes also contributed to stenosis at the nerve root exist. These pathoanatomical findings were corroborated by intraoperative observations in patients. The high incidence of compressive lesions anteriorly in the cervical spine underscores the need to consider both anterior and posterior surgery in many of these patients. PMID- 2520081 TI - Small central cervical disc syndrome: evaluation and treatment of chronic disabling neck pain. AB - In this retrospective study of 22 patients with severe disabling neck, interscapular, and shoulder pain we evaluated the effectiveness of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the diagnosis of small central cervical disc ruptures, and anterior cervical discectomy for the treatment of this condition. Conservative therapy had failed for all patients. All had been disabled for their normal activities for at least 6 months. MRI demonstrated two patterns of mid- or parasagittal disc disease. Anterior cervical discectomy produced nine excellent, six good, five fair, and two poor results. All but one patient returned to his/her former occupation. MRI is essential in the evaluation of patients with chronic neck pain who have failed conservative therapy and present with axial rather than appendicular complaints. Anterior cervical discectomy can be useful in well-selected patients with this syndrome. PMID- 2520082 TI - Spinal cord compression secondary to ossified ligamentum flavum. AB - A case of spinal cord compression arising from ossification of the ligamentum flavum in an African-American is presented. Myelography and computed tomography were used to delineate the anatomy. PMID- 2520083 TI - Metal cementless prosthesis for vertebral body replacement of metastatic malignant disease of the cervical spine. AB - Sixteen patients affected with metastatic malignant disease of the cervical spine underwent cervical vertebral body replacement with an original metal cementless prosthesis. In all cases there was immediate spine stability postoperatively and pain relief. All patients were able to walk within a few days postoperatively without any rigid external support. Follow-up roentgenograms have shown nonprosthetic mobilization. PMID- 2520084 TI - The treatment of multiple myeloma of the cervical spine with a halo vest. AB - Two patients with multiple myeloma involving the cervical spine and causing instability were treated in a halo vest while radiotherapy and chemotherapy were instituted. Further instability and neurological loss were prevented while continuing this treatment. The bony lesions eventually healed and mechanical stability was restored in both patients. Temporary halo vest placement with concurrent chemo- and/or radiotherapy can be a reasonable and safe alternative to surgery in those patients with multiple myeloma involving the cervical spine, and often results in bone reconstitution and stability. PMID- 2520085 TI - Isthmic spondylolisthesis in pycnodysostosis. AB - Pycnodysostosis is an inborn skeletal syndrome manifested by short stature with a concomitant spinal deformity and by dense sclerotic fragile bones. We report a 35 year-old woman with pycnodysostosis and isthmic spondylolisthesis. Pycnodysostosis should be added to the differential diagnosis of spondylolisthesis. PMID- 2520086 TI - In vitro spinal arthrodesis implant mechanical testing protocols. AB - Mechanical testing protocols and test methods used to evaluate spinal implants have varied widely. Use of different test methods would not present a problem except that multicomponent mechanical systems, such as the spine and spinal implant constructs, yield different mechanical properties when subjected to different test methods. The goal of this article is to outline considerations specific to the mechanical assessment of spinal implants. With standard test methods and treatment of results, redundancy between testing programs will be reduced and comparison of results will be facilitated. PMID- 2520087 TI - Laboratory evaluations of cervical internal fixation devices: in vivo testing. PMID- 2520088 TI - Clinical trials for spinal implants. PMID- 2520089 TI - The process of FDA approval of a spinal implant: governmental perspective. PMID- 2520090 TI - Spine instrumentation and the FDA: what spine surgeons should know. AB - The regulatory process is long, frustrating, and expensive in many regards. It is also unavoidable for companies wishing to participate in the medical industry. Surgeons who choose to become involved in leading technologies will find themselves inevitably surrounded by FDA issues. The most efficient and effective means of dealing with this situation is to cooperate with the device manufacturers, who are subject to these regulations, and "do it right." Surgeons, patients, and manufacturers are the ultimate winners if the regulatory process is used appropriately. PMID- 2520091 TI - Developing new spinal instrumentation: a business view. PMID- 2520093 TI - Urogenital surgical conditions. PMID- 2520092 TI - C1-C2 subluxation. PMID- 2520095 TI - Complications associated with perineal urethrostomy in the cat. AB - Urethral obstruction is a common problem in male cats. The most prevalent location for the obstruction is the penile urethra. Most male cats with urethral obstruction can be effectively treated without surgery. However, some cats with this condition require a perineal urethrostomy. This surgical procedure involves removing the penile urethra and creating a permanent stoma between the skin and pelvic urethra. A variety of medical and management problems can develop early in the course of urethral obstruction. In addition, there are several potential intraoperative and postoperative complications related to the technique of perineal urethrostomy. Most medical problems and surgical complications respond to appropriate treatment. PMID- 2520094 TI - Urogenital cytology and surgical decision making. A differential diagnostic approach to hematuria, stranguria, and prostatomegaly. AB - The purpose of this chapter is to discuss some of the common diagnostic dilemmas in veterinary medicine that relate to the urogenital tract. The problems include hematuria, stranguria, and prostatomegaly. The diagnostic workup is discussed specifically as it relates to cytologic techniques. Case examples are given to illustrate how the suggested diagnostic plan can be followed. Some of the pitfalls that can be encountered in diagnosing and treating these problems are also addressed. PMID- 2520096 TI - Prepubic urethrostomy. An acceptable urinary diversion technique. AB - Urinary diversion techniques to bypass diseased or damaged portions of the urinary tract represent a critical answer to potentially life-threatening conditions. Prepublic urethrostomy in the dog and cat, when used in the appropriate condition, can provide excellent urinary function. Nine animals, two dogs and seven cats, are presented here as a clinical representation of the benefits of prepubic urethrostomy. The surgical technique, clinical case material in the nine animals, and complications associated with the procedure are presented. PMID- 2520097 TI - Urinary bladder neoplasia in the dog and cat. AB - Neoplasms of the canine and feline urinary bladder are diagnostic and therapeutic challenges to the veterinary clinician. The diagnosis of a urinary bladder neoplasm is generally delayed because of a lack of overt clinical signs or a partial response to empirical treatment. Surgical resection by partial (segmental) resection is the treatment of choice; however, due to delays in diagnosis, tumor location or extent (stage), this form of treatment may be precluded. More information is needed concerning the efficacy of adjuvant (nonsurgical) treatment modalities. The prognosis of dogs and cats with urinary bladder neoplasms is based on tumor type, location, depth of bladder wall invasion, and presence of regional or distant metastases. PMID- 2520098 TI - Problems of the urethra. Surgical approaches. AB - The urethra is the normal conduit for evacuation of urine from the bladder to the exterior. The integrity of urethral anatomy and function is a prerequisite to normal micturition. Abnormalities that develop within or around the urethra, traumatic injuries of the urethra, and attempts to correct these abnormalities surgically may have detrimental affects on urethral architecture and function. They may ultimately result in urethral obstruction or extravasation of urine in periurethral tissue, the pelvic cavity, and, in some instances, the peritoneal cavity. Urethral surgery is often hampered by difficult exposure, the close proximity of vital neurovascular anatomy, and by the detrimental affects urine has on wound healing and hemostasis. Iatrogenic urethral injury may occur when surgical dissection near the urethra must be done. Successful management of urethral abnormalities requires knowledge of urethral surgery and its pitfalls. Anticipation of the development of urethral problems and the determination of the necessity of surgical intervention is the author's goal. PMID- 2520099 TI - Peritonitis from urogenital conditions. AB - Peritonitis from urogenital causes is rarely reported in small animal patients. When it occurs, however, it is often life-threatening. Rapid recognition that peritonitis exists, identification of the infecting organisms, and appropriate antibiotic therapy are critical to survival. Aggressive medical and surgical therapy for peritonitis are needed, and the best course of treatment remains to be determined. PMID- 2520100 TI - Pyometra and its complications. AB - The management of animals with cystic hyperplasia-pyometra complex can be a challenge. Careful interpretation of the history and physical examination, radiographic, and clinicopathologic findings will lead to an accurate diagnosis. Appropriate and rapid stabilization of the animal before surgical removal of the uterus will greatly decrease morbidity and mortality. Precise surgical technique when performing ovariohysterectomy will decrease postoperative complications. PMID- 2520102 TI - The intersexual animal. Associated problems. AB - An intersex animal is one possessing the characteristics of both sexes. Intersex animals, also called pseudohermaphrodites or hermaphrodites, are classified on the basis of their gonads. Pseudohermaphrodites possess the gonads of one sex but the secondary sex characteristics and external genitalia of the opposite sex. Female pseudohermaphrodites have ovaries but phenotypically have a masculine appearance. Male pseudohermaphrodites possess testes while having mixed or female external genitalia. Less common than pseudohermaphrodism is true hermaphrodism, wherein both testicular and ovarian tissue is present in various combinations. A testis may be found on one side in combination with an ovary on the contralateral side, an ovatestis (both testicular and ovarian tissue found in a single gonad) only may be present, or an ovatestis may be paired with a testis or ovary. Problems associated with intersex animals are not unique to intersexes but can be found in animals with normal chromosomal karyotypes. This chapter will review briefly the etiology of intersexuality and it will discuss the diagnosis and management of those problems associated with the intersex animal. PMID- 2520101 TI - Complications associated with the surgical treatment of prostatic abscessation. AB - Prostatic abscessation in the dog is a disease process in which diagnostic, therapeutic, and postoperative problems are frequently encountered. Several surgical techniques for the treatment of prostatic abscessation in the dog have been reported. However, few studies have described the indications for use of a particular technique or associated postoperative complications. PMID- 2520103 TI - Ectopic ureter surgery and its problems. AB - The incidence of ectopic ureter in companion animals is low. The most common clinical sign is urinary incontinence. Many animals with ectopic ureters have other urinary tract abnormalities that may contribute to urinary incontinence. A properly performed excretory urographic study in combination with pneumocystography is most likely to confirm the diagnosis and can demonstrate ureteral morphology. Surgical treatment options for ectopic ureter are varied and should be aimed at preserving the effected ureter and kidney. Common complications of surgery are hydroureter and hydronephrosis. These complications may be minimized with proper surgical technique. Medical therapy has been used successfully to control continued urinary incontinence following surgery. PMID- 2520104 TI - Urinary salvage procedures. AB - Urinary salvage surgical procedures become necessary when a portion of the urinary tract has been destroyed or has become nonfunctional. The purpose of urinary salvage procedures is to restore the urinary tract to a functional, if not normal, condition. Loss of continence or the development of chronic infection may render animals unsatisfactory as pets and may limit the application of some salvage procedures in veterinary practice. However, when an animals is examined for urinary tract disease, a hopeless prognosis should not be offered the client until consideration has been given to the performance of a salvage procedure or referral of the animal for further evaluation has been discussed with the client. PMID- 2520105 TI - Gastrointestinal surgical complications. PMID- 2520106 TI - Complications associated with the diagnostic, medical, and surgical management of portosystemic shunts. AB - Anomalous vascular connections between the portal and systemic circulations can result in several profound alterations in normal physiology. In most cases the presenting clinical signs are referable to the nervous, gastrointestinal, and urinary systems. Medical management may help control the clinical signs, but only surgical redirection of the shunting blood back to the liver parenchyma can result in reversal of the hepatic atrophy and dysfunction that exists. This article describes the problems associated with the diagnostic, medical, and surgical management of animals with congenital portosystemic shunts. PMID- 2520107 TI - Pathophysiology and pathogenesis of generalized peritonitis. AB - Peritonitis is a complex disease state that results in many pathophysiologic alterations that affect multiple organs. The clinician must possess a thorough understanding of the pathophysiology and pathogenesis of the disease so that effective treatment can be instituted. Treatment should be directed at eliminating the cause of peritonitis and preventing or reversing the resulting pathophysiologic alterations. PMID- 2520109 TI - Problems and complications associated with esophageal surgery. AB - Complications associated with esophageal surgery can be overcome by careful surgical technique, patience, and the selection of appropriate treatments for esophageal lesions. Two retrospective studies that evaluated the results of esophageal surgery in dogs and cats reported successful outcomes in 77% and 85% of the cases. By following classic surgical tenets, the use of fine non-reactive suture material, the precise apposition of tissues, and the avoidance of tension on the suture line, the esophagus will heal admirably. PMID- 2520110 TI - Gastric outflow surgical problems. AB - Gastric outlet disease in the dog and cat can be successfully managed by various surgical techniques. Diagnosis is based upon clinical history, radiographic, fluoroscopic and endoscopic studies, and histological examination of excised tissue. Procedures that can improve gastric outflow include pyloromyotomy, various pyloroplasties, and antrectomy with gastroduodenostomy or gastrojejunostomy. Complications are both perioperative and long-term. A successful outcome is dependent upon proper diagnosis, complete assessment of both related and concurrent disease states, proper selection of surgical procedure, careful surgical technique, and attention to postoperative and long term complications. PMID- 2520108 TI - Management of the patient with generalized peritonitis. AB - Peritonitis is a serious disease requiring aggressive therapy in the hope of effecting a cure. Stabilization of the patient's condition is important; immediate fluid therapy and systemic antibiotics are essential. Surgery is indicated, not only to locate and correct the causative lesion, but to mechanically cleanse the peritoneal cavity by debridement and copious irrigation. Establishment of drainage is also necessary. The drainage method chosen is dictated by the source and the extent of peritoneal contamination, the patient's condition, and the experience of the surgeon. PMID- 2520112 TI - Problems and complications associated with colorectal surgery. AB - Successful colorectal surgery requires a combination of thorough patient evaluation and surgical judgment to determine the correct surgical approach and to properly apply the general principles of colorectal surgery. These principles include gentle tissue handling, preservation of blood and nerve supply, proper suture selection and suture techniques, postoperative monitoring, and early recognition and treatment of complications. PMID- 2520111 TI - Problems associated with the surgical treatment of diseases involving the perineal region. AB - The problems associated with perineal surgery depend on the surgical procedure performed. Problems are encountered before, during, and after surgery. Appropriate preoperative assessment, proper surgical technique, and thorough postoperative management are required for successful results. Immediate recognition and treatment of problems is essential. PMID- 2520113 TI - Management and prevention of surgical complications associated with small animal abdominal herniorrhaphy. AB - Abdominal hernias, especially those resulting from trauma, are common in small animals. Little is written regarding prevention and treatment of common problems or complications encountered during or after herniorrhaphy. The purpose of this article is to discuss the numerous potential or documented complications associated with abdominal herniorrhaphy, how to manage them, and, most importantly, how to prevent them. PMID- 2520114 TI - Complications associated with the medical and surgical management of gastric dilatation-volvulus in the dog. AB - Morbidity and mortality encountered in the medical and surgical management of gastric dilatation-volvulus syndrome are most commonly associated with hypovolemic shock, ventricular arrhythmias, and sepsis related to gastric wall necrosis. Complications requiring spontaneous decisions are frequently encountered preoperatively during emergency stabilization, intraoperatively during exploratory laparotomy and prophylactic gastropexy, and postoperatively during the recovery period. PMID- 2520116 TI - Complications associated with surgery of the extrahepatic biliary system. AB - Diseases that lead to the need for surgery of the extrahepatic biliary system in dogs and cats are mainly acquired diseases, and these include obstructive biliary disease, traumatic injury, and cholecystitis. The main goal of surgery is to achieve an intact, patent biliary system while minimizing intra- and postoperative complications. PMID- 2520117 TI - Complications and decision making associated with small intestine surgery. AB - Several different problems or complications are associated with the diagnosis, medical treatment, surgery, and post-operative management of various small intestinal disorders. Many of these complications or problems are common to different small intestinal surgical disorders, while others are encountered only when dealing with individual diseases. A successful surgical outcome is often dependent on the correct diagnosis and management of these complications or problems. PMID- 2520115 TI - Salivary gland diseases. Diagnosis, treatment, and associated problems. AB - Salivary gland diseases are uncommon in both the dog and the cat. Conditions involving the salivary glands include rupture, inflammation, dilation, necrosis, fistula, a foreign body, autoimmune disease, calculi, and neoplasia. The onset of many of these conditions is often insidious, with vague findings on physical examination. Proper diagnosis and treatment is often dependent on aspiration, radiology, and exploratory surgery. Surgical problems associated with salivary gland surgery relate primarily to accurate dissection, complete extirpation of the involved gland(s) and duct system(s), and drainage when indicated. Complications are more often a result of improper diagnosis and iatrogenic interference than the primary disease. The focus of this discussion will be on accurate diagnosis and treatment so that associated problems and complications can be avoided. PMID- 2520118 TI - Intervertebral disc disease. PMID- 2520119 TI - Neuroanatomic and pathophysiologic aspects of intervertebral disc disease in the dog. AB - A sound understanding of anatomy and the pathophysiology of disease is important in all branches of medicine, but nowhere is it more critical to success than in the medical and surgical management of intervertebral disc disease. Due to the remote location and unforgiving nature of the spinal cord, the veterinary surgeon must possess an intimate working knowledge of the surgical anatomy of the vertebrae, ligaments and joints of the spine, intervertebral discs, spinal cord, and spinal nerves. In addition, proper localization of spinal cord lesions during the neurological evaluation requires awareness of the functional neuroanatomy of the upper and lower motor motor neurons, the sensory systems and tracts, and the reflex arcs. Knowledge of the pathophysiology the intervertebral disc degeneration and the response of the spinal cord to disc extrusions are also important in the overall understanding of the disease and enhances proper decision making for its management. This chapter reviews the portions of the gross and functional neuroanatomy and the pathophysiology of the intervertebral disc and the spinal cord that are pertinent to the dog with intervertebral disc disease. Emphasis is placed on concepts that are critical for the veterinary surgeon who is involved in the surgical management of the disc patient. PMID- 2520121 TI - The differential diagnosis of disc disease. AB - The differentiation of disc disease from other diseases that result in signs related to varying degrees of proprioceptive ataxia, paresis to paralysis, digital hypesthesia to anesthesia, and spinal hyperpathia is a common problem facing the veterinarian. Classification of the differential diagnoses of disc disease based on neuroanatomic localization facilitates diagnosis because each category shares historical, clinical, and neurologic examination features. These features, as well as the distinguishing ones used in the differential diagnosis of disc disease, will be reviewed. PMID- 2520120 TI - Problems in neurolocalization. AB - A complete neurologic examination is essential to manage patients with thoracolumbar or cervical intervertebral disc herniations appropriately. The neurologic examination provides an assessment of the severity of the lesion and allows the lesion to be accurately localized. This chapter will review the basic principles of localizing the compressive spinal and lesions and will discuss some specific problems encountered in localizing thoracolumbar and cervical intervertebral disc herniations. PMID- 2520122 TI - Problems in the radiographic interpretation of intervertebral disc disease in the dog. AB - There are several problems associated with the radiographic diagnosis and assessment of intervertebral disc disease in the dog, including both technical matters and image interpretation. The purpose of this chapter is to discuss some of the problems and offer possible solutions. These will become dated in the future as newer methods of imagery (e.g., magnetic resonance imagery and computed tomography) and newer contrast agents become more available in veterinary medicine. PMID- 2520123 TI - Problems and complications associated with the nonsurgical management of intervertebral disc disease. AB - Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a common problem encountered in veterinary practice. The primary goal in treating animals with IVDD should be to relieve nerve root and spinal cord compression, thereby retaining or regaining normal neurologic function. Methods of nonsurgical management include corticosteroid medication, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, acupuncture therapy, and chemonucleolysis. Each one of these modalities have their own inherent advantages and disadvantages that should be considered before instituting therapy. PMID- 2520124 TI - Selection of the appropriate surgical approach for intervertebral disc disease. AB - In no other area of veterinary surgery is the selection and performance of the appropriate surgical approach more important than neurosurgery. An adequate, atraumatic, and anatomically sound exposure is an important part of the battle in most orthopaedic procedures and is an even more important consideration when related to neurosurgery. The delicate and often unforgiving nature of the tissue involved dictates that careful planning and attention to detail become high priority concerns for the veterinary neurosurgeon. Most veterinarians recommend surgery for dogs with severe impairment, recurrent disease, and progressively deteriorating neurologic signs. Difficulties remain in the timing of surgery and in the choice of what surgical approach is most appropriate for the neurologically impaired dog in question. Surgical approaches in the cervical region include ventral and dorsal. In the thoracolumbar spine, either dorsal or dorsolateral approaches are used. In the lumbosacral region, a dorsal approach is preferred. The objective of this chapter will be to compare and contrast each of these approaches and to guide the reader in the selection of the appropriate approach for each patient. PMID- 2520126 TI - Fenestration. Pros and cons. AB - Fenestration of canine intervertebral discs is a time-honored, yet controversial, procedure used by veterinarians in the management of degenerative disc disease. It has been touted for both its supposed therapeutic effects and for its purported role in preventing future episodes of disc-related clinical signs. In spite of its long-standing reputation and wide use by many, fenestration may lack a firm scientific basis for its continued incorporation in the repertoire of the veterinary spine surgeon. This chapter will explore the key issues that impinge on the role fenestration plays and discuss the pros and cons attendant with its use. The author feels that, with the ability to diagnose and treat intervertebral disc prolapse in more sophisticated and scientific ways, fenestration should largely be abandoned. The evidence for this conclusion and the limited role that may still be reserved for fenestration are discussed. PMID- 2520125 TI - Intraoperative problems associated with intervertebral disc disease. AB - Intervertebral disc disease in the dog is a common problem in veterinary medicine. The clinician must understand the pathophysiology of disc extrusions so the owner can be informed properly when medical versus surgical treatment is indicated. Intervertebral disc surgery requires the same preoperative considerations as any other surgery would: knowledge of regional anatomy, proper equipment, and good surgical techniques and tissue handling. The spinal cord is an unforgiving structure, forcing the surgeon to understand and to avoid intraoperative complications. Some complications are inevitable. Recognizing these complications early and resolving them quickly will help ease early recovery of neurologic function. PMID- 2520127 TI - Postoperative management of the neurosurgical patient. AB - Postoperative therapy is vital to the success of the management of the dog with intervertebral disc disease. Client communication and education are necessary to ensure that the patient receives adequate home care. The intake of food and water and the elimination of waste, without unnecessary retention, are necessary to allow for normal healing and recovery. A program of physical therapy, the minimal use of adrenocorticosteroids, combined with proper bedding and skin care will decrease patient morbidity and hasten the recovery process. PMID- 2520128 TI - Problems with owner communications. AB - This chapter deals with communication problems between the veterinary surgeon and the owners of animals undergoing treatment for intervertebral disc disease, an area that has often been neglected in other works that usually deal exclusively with pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment. Neurologic disease can be a confusing subject, especially for the untrained owner of an afflicted animal and many areas of potential confusion between the veterinarian and the owner can occur. Potential problems may arise during the discussion of the medical history, interpretation of the neurologic examination, explanation of differential diagnostic and treatment alternatives, and description of the operative and postoperative phases. Each of these areas is discussed relative to the veterinarian's interaction with the owner of the animal patient. PMID- 2520130 TI - Epilepsy. PMID- 2520129 TI - What is epilepsy? PMID- 2520131 TI - Mechanisms of seizure disorders. AB - Epilepsy, one of the most common neurologic disorders treated by veterinarians, is also one of the least understood. A dysregulation of neural excitability appears to underlie most seizures; yet, it is still not clear whether the disorder is one of excess excitation, failure of inhibition, or a combination of both. This paper presents normal neural physiology followed by current theories regarding the pathophysiology of epilepsy so that the reader may better understand the rationale explained in later chapters regarding the choice of anticonvulsant therapies. PMID- 2520132 TI - Neuropathology of canine epilepsy. AB - Canine epilepsy can be classified into primary (idiopathic) and secondary (symptomatic) epilepsy, which is similar to human epilepsy. Primary epilepsy in both species is inherited and characterized by the absence of recognizable causative lesions. Secondary epilepsy is linked to a variety of lesions such as brain tumors, trauma, encephalitis, lysosomal storage diseases, congenital malformations, and metabolic-toxic injury. Correspondingly, various subtypes of secondary epilepsy have been recognized. The pathogenesis of secondary epilepsy is basically associated with selective loss of inhibitory neurons that disturbs the balance between excitation and inhibition. PMID- 2520133 TI - Electroencephalography in the diagnosis of epilepsy. AB - In veterinary neurology, as in human neurology, one of the best-documented uses for the EEG is in the diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic monitoring of epilepsy. This review explains some basic methodology and provides guidance on proper interpretation of EEGs. The article reviews the literature on EEG correlates of animal epilepsies of diverse origin. PMID- 2520134 TI - Anticonvulsant drugs used in the treatment of epilepsy. AB - The pharmacology of anticonvulsant drugs is reviewed with emphasis placed on the treatment of canine and feline epilepsy. Due to pharmacokinetic reasons, only phenobarbital, primidone, and, with certain limitations, the benzodiazepines can be used in dogs. Bromides may be given additionally in cases that cannot be controlled with phenobarbital or promidone therapy. In cats, diazepam has been shown to be very useful because no tolerance develops to the antiepileptic effect in this species. PMID- 2520135 TI - Clinical management of epilepsy of dogs and cats. AB - A logical approach to the clinical management of a dog or cat with a history of seizures caused by epilepsy is presented. The definition of epilepsy, the classification of epileptic seizures, and the causes of seizures are discussed. A diagnostic approach to dogs and cats with seizure disorders is outlined. Anticonvulsant therapy for epilepsy is discussed, including the objectives of therapy, decision to start therapy, selection of an anticonvulsant drug, monitoring anticonvulsant therapy, and anticonvulsant drug failure. PMID- 2520136 TI - Epilepsy resistant to anticonvulsant therapy. AB - The objective when treating a patient with refractory epilepsy is to control the seizures without drug toxicity. This is accomplished in a stepwise fashion: 1) use a drug known to be effective in the species being treated, 2) verify that the owner is complying with the prescribed dosage regimen, 3) monitor serum drug levels with samples taken at trough blood concentrations, 4) observe for adverse drug reactions/interactions, and 5) test for metabolic or structural brain injuries that would explain the poor drug response. By following these steps and individualizing the treatment for each patient, you should be able to obtain seizure control in the majority of patients. PMID- 2520137 TI - Status epilepticus. AB - Status epilepticus is a life-threatening cerebral event. Within 1-2 minutes of seizure onset, massive recurrent cerebral discharges cause autonomic and endocrine dysfunction and loss of normal brain homeostasis. Intracerebral abnormalities become progressively worse and self-perpetuating the longer seizures continue. Seizures lasting 90 minutes or more may cause irreversible injury to selectively vulnerable neurons in the brain and permanent impairment of neurologic function. In addition, status epilepticus is associated with cumulative anoxia that affects almost every major organ system of the body and leads to progressive organ failure. To prevent permanent neurologic injury, the treatment of status epilepticus must be prompt, aggressive, and rational. Stop the seizures, restore homeostasis, perform a thorough diagnostic evaluation to determine the cause of status, and treat definitively. PMID- 2520138 TI - Complex partial seizures. Behavioral epilepsy. AB - One of the most frustrating problems for veterinarians is the animal with a recurring behavioral disorder that is apparently a seizure disorder. Similar human disorders have been shown to be caused, in most cases, by organic disease in the cerebrum. There are reports in the veterinary literature that appear to support the same theory; however, there is no well-designed study with adequate animal numbers that proves the syndromes to be the same as in human medicine. It is clear that much research needs to be done. Diagnostic work up should be done meticulously, with emphasis on looking for intracranial disease. Treatment with phenobarbital is recommended to control the seizures, although the results will be variable. PMID- 2520139 TI - Feline epilepsy. AB - In approximately two-thirds of the epileptic cats in this article, an idiopathic epilepsy had to be assumed. It began between six and 36 months of age with a single seizure, which usually occurred during rest or sleep. Symptomatic epilepsy was frequently observed during the first two years of life and in old age, beginning frequently with multiple seizures or status epilepticus and less often during sleep or rest. In both types, grand mal seizures are predominant. Seizure clusters or status epilepticus caused extensive neuron necroses and scleroses in Ammon's horn. Diazepana and phenobarbital are antiepileptics of first choice for the cat; primidone and phenytoin are less suitable. PMID- 2520140 TI - Epilepsy. Clinical cases. AB - Several cases are presented to serve as examples of various diagnostic and therapeutic approaches used in handling epileptic patients. These cases should show a wide variation of clinical severity and therapeutic control. The success or failure to control seizure activity in each case is reviewed with the intention of providing helpful suggestions to practicing veterinarians faced with similar cases. PMID- 2520141 TI - Knowledge and attitudes towards premarital counselling and examination. AB - Premarital counselling and examination have begun to play a very important role in the management of many genetic disorders. 600 villager's knowledge and attitudes toward premarital counselling and examination in Menofia Governorate was studied in order to predict the community acceptance and behaviour toward utilization of such service. The result showed a big lack in knowledge even among educated respondents about the term. The main source of information was mass media followed by medical personnel who should participate more in this service. Most respondents, except unmarried males, have a favourable attitude toward either premarital counselling and examination or consanguinous marriage. This may be related to certain social changes in village life such as declining illiteracy, increased economic pressures, increase number of nuclear families and accordingly delay in beginning a family. It was unlikely that non-contraceptive users would resort to induced abortion rather to use contraceptive methods. Educational programs should be directed toward: (a) unmarried males so that their attitude toward premarital counselling and examination can be changed to correct direction, (b) unmarried females to make consanginous marriage more undesirable, and (c) non-contraceptive users to make them more intended to use safe contraceptive methods than induced abortion. PMID- 2520142 TI - Preparation and use of monoclonal antibodies in the detection of Trichinella spiralis circulating antigen. AB - In the present study, a trial was made to evaluate the monoclonal antibody produced as a tool in the detection of circulating antigen. For the preparation of monoclonal antibodies, four Balb/C mice were immunized with Trichinella spiralis larvae. Immunized spleen cells were prepared and a suitable mutant NS1 myeloma cell line was used for fusion. Eighty white swiss albino mice were orally infected with 500 L1 T. spiralis larvae. Their serum was collected at different periods i.e. 5, 11, 18 and 28 days post infection for the detection of circulating antigen which was done by the ELISA technique. Circulating antigen could not be detected on day 5 post infection, while on day 11 it was clearly identified; on day 18 it could be detected but at a lesser O.D. reading however the antigen disappeared completely on the 28th day. This study confirmed that monoclonal antibodies may be a valuable tool in the early diagnosis of trichinosis by the detection of specific antigens, even in small amounts whenever present in the circulation. PMID- 2520143 TI - Beneficial effects of vitamin C on risk factors of cardiovascular diseases. AB - The aim of this investigation is to study the hypothesis that vitamin C has beneficial effects on some risk factors of cardiovascular diseases. Sixty-seven volunteers participated in this study. Thirty and thirty-seven subjects were assigned randomly to two groups. The first was given a placebo and the second was given a vitamin C, respectively. Both regimens were followed for six months. The dose of vitamin C was 500 mg/day. Double blind technique was used throughout the study. These data supported part of the beneficial effects of vitamin C on atherosclerosis process, i.e. reduce significantly body fat, systolic blood pressure, and pulse, and increase significantly high density lipoprotein. On the other hand, these data did not show favourable effects on other lipid parameters, i.e. cholesterol, triglyceride, low density lipoprotein, and very low density lipoprotein. PMID- 2520145 TI - Factors influencing utilization of the preventive health services among children aged 6-60 months in Bahrain. Part I. AB - Two-hundred fifty-eight out of 2587 children aged 6-60 months were randomly selected from eight villages in western region of Bahrain. The data were collected by visiting and interviewing the mothers, and examining the birth certificates for immunizations. Age of the child, family structure, sickness of the child and mother's attitude toward the provided preventive services were significant determinants for the use of preventive care. However, no significant relationships were found between utilization of the preventive care and child sex, family size, mother's education, socioeconomic status and situational factors. PMID- 2520144 TI - AIDS: the situation in Mogadishu during spring 1987. AB - To determine if AIDS was present in Mogadishu during spring 1987, we screened hospital patients for the presence of diseases compatible with acquired immunodeficiency. Twenty-nine such patients were identified and had their serum tested for antibodies to HIV by standard serologic techniques. All these sera were negative for HIV antibodies. During the same time, at the Mogadishu clinic for sexually transmitted diseases, 48 individuals were examined for evidence of HIV infection. No patient had clinical signs compatible with AIDS, but one serum was anti-HIV antibodies positive in both the ELISA and western blot assay. We conclude that there was no clinical AIDS in Mogadishu in early 1987 and that prevalence of HIV infection in high risk individuals was very low. PMID- 2520147 TI - Satisfaction of mothers by nursing care provided to their sick children in ambulatory health care centers. AB - The aim of the study was to measure satisfaction of mothers attending health units with their ambulatory children. A random sample of 150 mothers was included in the study from 3 ambulatory care units in Ismailia. The indirect method of measuring satisfaction was used through identification of mothers pre-visit expectations and measuring the post visit fulfillment by technical quality of nursing care. The percentage of expectation fulfillment reflected the degree of satisfaction. The mother's responses were validated by observers opinion to the same service provided. The results of the study revealed that respondent scores indicated a weak satisfaction with most of nursing care services such as taking temperature, weighing the child and carrying physicians orders. The results also revealed that aspects related to nurse's advice and guidance to mothers regarding child's condition, elicited high level of unsatisfaction. PMID- 2520146 TI - Epidemiology of non A non B hepatitis in Jeddah, KSA with special reference to aminotransferases as a prognostic criterion. AB - Viral hepatitis is still a major public health problem all over the world. The introduction of recent methods for diagnosis, improved hygienic and health standards, screening of blood donors together with the availability of vaccines helped greatly in reduction of viral hepatitis in some countries. However, NANB hepatitis is still widespread and constitutes a medical challenge. Since long time, epidemiologic speculation of the presence of more than one virus causing the disease was put forward. In 1956 the first report on a patient with more than two epidoses of acute hepatitis was published. Recently reliable methods for diagnosis of hepatitis A, hepatitis B and delta hepatitis became available. The presence of acute hepatitis in absence of specific serological markers of HAV, HBV and HDV is considered as NANB hepatitis. The diagnosis of the latter disease remains a matter of exclusion in spite of the tremendous efforts to formulate specific tests for diagnosis. Even the experience with immunofluorescence techniques were not successful. At least two routes of transmission are recognized; blood transfusion (endemic) and fecal-oral (epidemic). The course of the disease is usually benign but a good percent proceed to chronicity. Some described severe necrotizing NANB hepatitis complicated by pancytopenia. Very little has been known about NANB hepatitis in Saudi Arabia. PMID- 2520148 TI - Rapid diagnosis of bacterial meningitis by latex agglutination test. AB - Forty-three patients admitted to Abassia Fever Hospital suffering from meningitis were studied. They were 27 male and 16 female and divided into 3 age groups, as a control, 4 normal CSF samples were collected. A sterile CSF was collected and examined for pressure, aspect, glucose, protein and cellular content. Although all these tests were helpful in differentiating the type of meningitis, a remarkable overlap between the results were detected. Bacteriological study of CSF showed that bacterial culture was more sensitive than the Gram-stained film in (80% and 72% respectively) (p less than 0.05). However, it is a time consuming and its results greatly affected by prior uses of antibiotics. Also the antigen of N. meningitidis A & C, H. influenzae and S. pneumoniae were detected by latex agglutination (L.A.) and gave positive results in 76% of cases. It was less sensitive than the culture method. As a conclusion, L.A. test is a rapid and simple method of diagnosis of bacterial meningitis which give immediate information to the clinician. The sensitivity and specificity of L.A. can be greatly improved by using a higher quality of antibody for all serotypes in the locality. PMID- 2520149 TI - Diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis by immunofluorescence and enzyme immunoassay. AB - Cerebrospinal fluid was collected from 29 patients with tuberculous meningitis, 21 and 7 patients with bacterial and viral meningitis and 5 normal subjects. Pressure, aspect, glucose, protein and cellular content of CSF were studied. Detection of acid fast bacilli in direct film stained by Zeil Neilsen (Z.N.) and fluorochrom (Fl.Ch.) and Culture on Lowenstein Jensen media were done. Then specific immunoglobulin G & M to Mycobacteria were assayed by Immunofluorescence (IF using BCG) and by Enzyme Linked Immunosorbant assay (ELISA) using protein-A of M. Tuberculosis. It was found that diagnosis of M. Tuberculosis by CSF culture was more sensitive than by direct CSF film stained with Z.N. or Fl.Ch. stain (positive in 44.8%, 10.3% and 17.2% of cases respectively). It was noticed that the detection of CSF IgG antibodies was more sensitive than IgM antibodies either by IF or ELISA. By comparing ELISA and IF tests for detection of specific anti mycobacterial immunoglobulin in CSF, it was clear that the sensitivity and specificity of ELISA was more than IF test. A positive result for antimycobacteria IgG antibodies was obtained in 79.3% and 58.6% of cases respectively (p less than 0.05). None of the CSF of normal controls, bacterial and viral meningitis cases gave positive antimycobacteria IgG by ELISA while 9.5% of the CSF of bacterial and 14.3% of aseptic meningitis cases gave positive results with IF. The sensitivity, specificity and predictive value of the described ELISA test, make it useful for early diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis. PMID- 2520150 TI - An outbreak of acute haemorrhagic conjunctivitis caused by enterovirus 70 in Jeddah during 1985. AB - Seventy-five cases of acute haemorrhagic conjunctivitis (A.H.C.) were subjected to full ophthalmic, bacteriological, virological, serological as well as cytological examinations. The majority of cases presented with bilateral conjunctivitis (70 out of 75). Although follicular reaction was the earliest sign, yet subconjunctival haemorrhages were the most constant findings in all the cases. Enterovirus 70 was isolated in 57 cases from conjunctival swabs and in 43 cases from serum samples. Complement flaxation test was positive for enterovirus 70 in 42 cases but negative for coxsackie and adenoviruses. No primary role has been found for bacteria in the pathogenesis of A.H.C. in this outbreak. Cytological examination of conjunctival scrappings showed the characteristics cytopathic effect (CPE) of enteroviruses. PMID- 2520151 TI - A trial to produce an anti-schistosomal vaccine using heterophyid antigens. AB - Heterophyid metacercariae, crude and partially purified heterophyid antigens were given prior to S. mansoni infections in an attempt to produce a potent antischistosomal vaccine. Three main groups of albino mice were used. Each group after receiving the appropriate heterophyid antigen prior to S. mansoni infection was studied parasitologically as regards worm load and tissue egg count and histopathologically as regards granulomata number, size and cellular constituents as well as immunologically by the indirect immunofluorescent test. The results showed a reduction in worm burden recoveries and egg load resulting in lesser number of granulomata and diminution in size of granulomata as well as acceleration in their reaction together with inhibition of fluorescence. These results were more obvious in the group infected one month post heterophyid infection, as well as in mice immunized with the highest dose of crude heterophyid antigen (200 micrograms protein). However, a low dose of 50 micrograms of partially purified fractionated antigen gave the most evident results. PMID- 2520152 TI - Physeal injuries in children. PMID- 2520153 TI - Proximal femoral fractures in children. AB - Proximal femoral fractures in children can be divided into three groups: femoral neck fractures, apophyseal trochanteric separations and subtrochanteric fractures. Femoral neck fractures are extremely rare. They are classified according to Delbet and Colonna into four types. The more lateral is the line of the fracture, the better is the prognosis, and the less sequelae occur. The treatment of femoral neck fractures in children is in nearly all cases surgical, only in some pertrochanteric and in the minority of non-complete basicervical fractures conservative treatment can be considered. The surgical treatment is either a closed manipulation with internal fixation, or an open reduction with fixation. The authors prefer closed manipulation, if it is possible to perform. They have themselves treated 5 pathological separations of the femoral head of the coxxa vara adolescentium origin. These injuries are aligned with femoral neck fractures, because they are caused by a traumatic mechanism, and are to be treated like a fracture. Further the authors have treated two cervicotrochanteric fractures by open reduction and 4 patients with pertrochanteric fractures conservatively by skin traction. Apophyseal trochanteric separations are convenient to be treated conservatively, only in case of greater displacement of the greater trochater can an open reduction and internal fixation by traction cerclage be recommended because of the risk of a valgous deformation of the femoral neck. The authors have treated conservatively 3 patients with a separation of the lesser and 2 patients with a separation of the greater tochanter. Subtrochanteric femoral fractures are different from typical diaphyseal fractures.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2520154 TI - Peripheral paresis of upper extremity nerves following supracondylar fracture of the humerus in children. AB - The authors observed a lesion of the peripheral nerves in 13 of 401 children with supracondylar humerus fractures (3.2%). Most frequently, the radial nerve was injured. All patients with neural lesions healed spontaneously, a surgical revision of the nerve was not necessary. The authors' opinion is that neural lesions accompanying supracondylar fractures can be treated conservatively. Exceptions are clear indications for surgical revision, as persisting ischaemia of the forearm or extensive open fractures. When treating conservatively, it is necessary to make a thorough clinical and EMG investigation to set exactly the diagnosis of the neural lesion immediately after removing the plaster cast (mostly 3 weeks after the injury). This investigation is to be repeated regularly, as the reinervation dynamics of the affected region is to be followed up. At the same time it is advantageous to perform electrostimulation until reinervation potentials appear, vitaminotherapy and intensive active exercise with the involved extremity. If no signs of reinvertion in the affected area appear within 6 months, a surgical revision of the nerve is to be considered. PMID- 2520155 TI - Fibrin glue osteosynthesis of epiphyseal injuries in children. AB - The osteosynthesis of epiphyseal injuries by a two-component fibrin glue was performed in five children. Three of them had finger fractures, two patients had slightly displaced distal tibial and fibular fractures. All children recovered without sequelae. They have been followed for three to twelve months after surgery and did not show any negative consequences. The glue osteosynthesis of physeal injuries will be appropriate only in more stable fractures where the fragments are not exposed to greater dislocating power because this type of synthesis is not very firm. In open injuries it is possible to add antibiotic to the glue, which represents a great advantage compared with the use of metal. It is essential to combine the osteosynthesis with plaster of Paris during the whole healing period. PMID- 2520156 TI - Laboratory detection of the early stages of diabetic nephropathy. AB - Three laboratory indicators of impaired renal function (microalbuminuria (MA), N acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase (NAG), beta-2-microglobulinaemia (beta-2-M)) were studied in sixty diabetics of type 1. 10 times higher MA levels were found in a subgroup of diabetics with identifiable diabetic retinopathy (DR). In a subgroup of diabetics with normal values of excreted albumin the mean MA value was significantly higher than in those who had already contracted DR. Pathological levels of NAG and beta-2-M were mostly seen in those patients who also had pathological MA results. In only four cases were increased NAG or beta-2-M values as the first and only pathological parameter indicative of possible renal involvement due to diabetic nephropathy. PMID- 2520157 TI - Dominantly inherited cleft lip and palate. PMID- 2520158 TI - chvA locus may be involved in export of neutral cyclic beta-1,2-linked D-glucan from Agrobacterium tumefaciens. AB - Extracellular and intracellular neutral beta-1,2-linked D-glucan content was determined in a virulent, attachment-deficient mutants of Agrobacterium tumefaciens that map in the chvA locus. chvA mutants contained approximately the same amount of intracellular glucan as cells of the virulent control strain A759, but released into the culture medium only 2% of the glucan released by strain A759. Introduction of a cosmid carrying the wild-type chv region restored attachment and virulence and restored extracellular glucan production to chvA mutant A2505. Exogenous glucan did not enhance or inhibit attachment or tumorigenesis of the virulent control strain or the chvA or chvB mutants. Our results suggest that the chvA locus is involved in the export of glucan from the cell and that export may be required for tumorigenesis. PMID- 2520159 TI - Cloning and characterization of a pectate lyase gene from Erwinia carotovora EC153. AB - A pel gene cloned from strain EC153 of Erwinia carotovora encoded a pectate lyase that macerated plant tissue with moderate efficiency. This gene, called pel153, was sequenced and found to possess considerable homology with a pectate lyase gene from Yersinia pseudotuberculosis. The Yersinia protein, however, was truncated at the carboxyl terminal end relative to the Erwinia gene product and had a lower isoelectric point. The Erwinia pel153 gene was overexpressed in cells of Escherichia coli, and a 56-kDa protein was observed on sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gels. This compares with a molecular weight of 61 kDa for the mature, secreted protein as determined from sequencing data. Southern blot analysis disclosed the presence of the pel153 gene in three different strains of E. carotovora, but mutation of the gene in strain EC153 did not affect its ability to soft-rot potato tubers. PMID- 2520160 TI - Expression of Agrobacterium nopaline-specific VirD1, VirD2, and VirC1 proteins and their requirement for T-strand production in E. coli. AB - Induction of Ti plasmid virulence (vir) genes during early stages of the genetic transformation of plant cells by Agrobacterium tumefaciens results in several molecular events that are involved in generating a transferable T-DNA copy. These events include site-specific nicking at the T-DNA borders and synthesis of free, unipolar, linear, single-stranded copies of the T-DNA (T-strands). Here E. coli was used as a heterologous cell to assay the requirements for T-strand synthesis. Cells of E. coli harbored two compatible plasmids, one containing coding sequences overlapping the virC and virD regions of the nopaline Ti plasmid, and a second plasmid containing a T-DNA region. The amount of vir proteins produced was varied by placing their expression under the control of either native Agrobacterium, tac, or T7 promoters. The data show that VirD1 and VirD2 proteins are absolutely essential for T-strand production in E. coli, and the relative amounts of these polypeptides produced correlate with the amounts of T-strand observed. When VirD1 and VirD2 products are limiting, the VirC1 protein increases T-strand production. The yield of T-strands also varies as a function of the plasmid vector used to clone the T-DNA region substrate; the same T-DNA cloned into pLAFR1 produces more T-strands than that cloned into the higher copy number plasmid pACYC184. In summary, VirD1 and VirD2 proteins are the minimal requirements for T-strand production; however, other factors such as VirC1, the relative concentration of VirD1, VirD2, and the T-DNA substrate, and possibly additional functions (e.g., those specified by pLAFR1) influence the efficiency of T-strand production. Additional results regarding the requirements for expression of VirD1 and VirD2 polypeptides are presented. PMID- 2520161 TI - The relationship between nodulin gene expression and the Rhizobium nod genes in Vicia sativa root nodule development. AB - The role of the Rhizobium nod genes in the induction of nodulin gene expression was examined by analyzing nodules formed on vetch roots by bacterial strains containing only the nod region. Introduction of an 11-kb cloned nod region of the R. leguminosarum sym plasmid pRL1JI into sym plasmid-cured rhizobia conferred on the recipient strains the ability to induce nodules in which all nodulin genes were expressed. This proves that from the sym plasmid only the nod region is involved in the induction of nodulin gene expression. A transconjugant of Agrobacterium carrying the same nod region induces nodules in which only early nodulin gene expression is detected. Thus, the nod region is essential for the induction of early nodulin gene expression. In this case, nodule cytology may indicate that a defense response of the plant interferes with the induction of late nodulin gene expression. Indirect evidence is presented that indeed the Rhizobium nod genes are also in some way involved in the induction of the expression of late noduling genes. The combination between histological data and pattern of nodulin gene expression furthermore reveals a correlation between nodule structure and nodulin gene expression. This correlation may aid in speculations about the functions of nodulins. PMID- 2520163 TI - A survival model and estimation of time to tumor. AB - In this paper we introduce a stochastic model of survival distribution, where the mortality intensity is a function of the accumulated effect of an individual's continuous exposure to toxic material in the environment (absorbing coefficient) and his biological reaction to the toxin absorbed (discharging coefficient). Formulas for the density function, the distribution function, and the expectation of lifetime are presented. The paper also includes special cases where there is a change in exposure level or exposure is discontinued or exposure is discrete in time. The model is then applied to the NCTR's serial sacrifice experimental study on mice fed 2-AAF, including some mice whose feeding was discontinued. The random variable here is the time to tumor. The chi-square test shows a good fit of the model to the data (P = 0.365). In addition to the parameters and their standard errors, estimates are computed for the expectation, variance, and percentiles of time to tumor, and for the age-specific cancer incidence rates. Confidence intervals for the parameters are also given. PMID- 2520164 TI - Modeling malaria vaccines. II: Population effects of stage-specific malaria vaccines dependent on natural boosting. AB - Population effects of malaria vaccination programs will depend on the stage specificity of the vaccine, its duration of effectiveness, whether it is responsive to natural boosting, the proportion vaccinated, and the preexisting endemic conditions. This paper develops models of infection-blocking (sporozoite), disease-modifying (merozoite), and transmission-blocking (gametic) vaccines. It explores numerically their different effects on prevalence of infection and disease when utilized in different types of immunization programs at various levels of coverage. Simulations show that possible qualitative consequences of malaria vaccination programs include decreased prevalence of infection and disease and decreased prevalence of infection without a corresponding decrease in prevalence of disease. Epidemics, either one-time or cyclical, could occur. These effects could be accompanied by changes in the age distribution of disease. Finally, vaccination could contribute to elimination of transmission. The duration of effectiveness of the malaria vaccine relative to the duration of natural immunity could have important consequences for the unvaccinated. The problem of predicting a threshold for elimination of transmission is discussed. PMID- 2520162 TI - Cloning, expression, and sequence conservation of pathogenesis-related gene transcripts of potato. AB - Treatment of potato tuber disks with arachidonic acid elicits the accumulation of several mRNAs. cDNA clones corresponding to two of these mRNAs were isolated and characterized. Nucleotide sequence analysis reveals that both clones (pSTH-2 and pSTH-21) contain an open-reading frame coding for a 155-amino acid polypeptide. The polypeptides encoded by the two clones differ by only six amino acids and show a high degree of similarity with PR protein sequences from pea (approximately 42%) and parsley (approximately 37%). mRNAs corresponding to the two potato cDNA clones also accumulate in Solanum chacoense and in tomato following elicitor treatment. Maximum accumulation of the mRNAs corresponding to the two cDNA clones is reached 24 hr after elicitor treatment of the tuber disks. pSTH-2-related mRNAs also accumulate in tubers after wounding or treatment with eicosapentaenoic acid and are detected in potato and tomato leaves treated with a Phytophthora infestans mycelium homogenate. The presence of these conserved genes in species from three plant families and the similarity of their induction pattern suggest an important function during the plant defense response. PMID- 2520165 TI - Heterogeneity of membrane transport quantified by the analysis of a unidirectional flux transient of charged tracer. AB - A planar mosaic membrane consists of patches, each with a given area, diffusion coefficient, and mobility of charged tracer; a common electric field, constant in space and time, lies across all the patches. Given the properties of the patches, the transient of the total unidirectional flux (summed over the patches) is predictable. Here we deal with the inverse problem: Given only the observed transient of the total unidirectional flux (as defined experimentally by Ussing), the unknown transport heterogeneity of the mosaic membrane is to be analyzed. Results obtained previously for uncharged tracers are generalized to include effects of the field. In particular, the ratio of the arithmetic and harmonic means (both area-weighted) of the diffusion coefficients, evaluated over the membrane, is expressed in terms of only the observed transient and the field strength and is used to characterize the heterogeneity; and the unique exact solution of the inverse problem for two kinds of patches is recovered at any field strength. If the mosaic consists of n distinct kinds of patches, a sweep of the field strength from low to high values reveals (at most) n steplike shapes in the time course of the total unidirectional flux (normalized to its final steady value), which permit an approximate analysis of the heterogeneity by elementary means. PMID- 2520166 TI - Two variants of the first Nasell-Hirsch model. AB - Two models are propounded on the general setting of the first Nasell-Hirsch model for helminthic infections. They differ from it in the two processes of transmission of the infection, which are treated dissymmetrically. In each model only one of these processes will be deterministic, instead of both as in the Nasell-Hirsch case, the other process being kept fully stochastic. These new models lead to results that show a general agreement with those of Nasell and Hirsch but also some interesting differences. PMID- 2520167 TI - Modeling malaria vaccines. I: New uses for old ideas. AB - Starting from a modification of the model of malaria transmission developed for the Garki project, this paper develops a model containing variables relevant to the stimulation of malaria vaccination programs. Modifications include (1) integration of maintenance of immunity dependent on boosting and the possibility of loss of immunity; (2) introduction of a boosting factor distinct from susceptibility to infection; (3) reinterpretation of the epidemiological compartments of positive immunes and nonimmunes in terms of severity of disease rather than just infection; (4) interpretation of the different stage-specific levels of immunity; (5) discrimination between different susceptibilities for the immune and nonimmune classes; (6) reformulation of the expression for acquisition of immunity to be biologically more acceptable. Simulations using the Garki model, Nedelman's modification of it, and our Basic model compare the similarities and differences in the predictive behavior of the models. Simulations using the Basic model reproduce observed periodic fluctuations of malaria attributed to the interplay of transmission-blocking immunity and loss of immunity in the absence of boosting in areas of unstable malaria transmission. PMID- 2520168 TI - A comparison of variant theories of intact biochemical systems. I. Enzyme-enzyme interactions and biochemical systems theory. AB - The need for a well-structured theory of intact biochemical systems becomes increasingly evident as one attempts to integrate the vast knowledge of individual molecular constituents, which has been expanding for several decades. In recent years, several apparently different approaches to the development of such a theory have been proposed. Unfortunately, the resulting theories have not been distinguished from each other, and this has led to considerable confusion with numerous duplications and rediscoveries. Detailed comparisons and critical tests of alternative theories are badly needed to reverse these unfortunate developments. In this paper we (1) characterize a specific system involving enzyme-enzyme interactions for reference in comparing alternative theories, and (2) analyze the reference system by applying the explicit S-system variant within biochemical systems theory (BST), which represents a fundamental framework based upon the power-law formalism and includes several variants. The results provide the first complete and rigorous numerical analysis within the power-law formalism of a specific biochemical system and further evidence for the accuracy of the explicit S-system variant within BST. This theory is shown to represent enzyme enzyme interactions in a systematically structured fashion that facilitates analysis of complex biochemical systems in which these interactions play a prominent role. This representation also captures the essential character of the underlying nonlinear processes over a wide range of variation (on average 20 fold) in the independent variables of the system. In the companion paper in this issue the same reference system is analyzed by other variants within BST as well as by two additional theories within the same power-law formalism--flux-oriented and metabolic control theories. The results show how all these theories are related to one another. PMID- 2520169 TI - A comparison of variant theories of intact biochemical systems. II. Flux-oriented and metabolic control theories. AB - In the past two decades, several theories, all ultimately based upon the same power-law formalism, have been proposed to relate the behavior of intact biochemical systems to the properties of their underlying determinants. Confusion concerning the relatedness of these alternatives has become acute because the implications of these theories have never been compared. In the preceding paper we characterized a specific system involving enzyme-enzyme interactions for reference in comparing alternative theories. We also analyzed the reference system by using an explicit variant that involves the S-system representation within biochemical systems theory (BST). We now analyze the same reference system according to two other variants within BST. First, we carry out the analysis by using an explicit variant that involves the generalized mass action representation, which includes the flux-oriented theory of Crabtree and Newsholme as a special case. Second, we carry out the analysis by using an implicit variant that involves the generalized mass action representation, which includes the metabolic control theory of Kacser and his colleagues as a special case. The explicit variants are found to provide a more complete characterization of the reference system than the implicit variants. Within each of these variant classes, the S-system representation is shown to be more mathematically tractable and accurate than the generalized mass action representation. The results allow one to make clear distinctions among the variant theories. PMID- 2520170 TI - Strategies for representing metabolic pathways within biochemical systems theory: reversible pathways. AB - The search for systematic methods to deal with the integrated behavior of complex biochemical systems has over the past two decades led to the proposal of several theories of biochemical systems. Among the most promising is biochemical systems theory (BST). Recent comparisons of this theory with several others that have recently been proposed have demonstrated that all are variants of BST and share a common underlying formalism. Hence, the different variants can be precisely related and ranked according to their completeness and operational utility. The original and most fruitful variant within BST is based on a particular representation, called an S-system (for synergistic and saturable systems), that exhibits many advantages not found among alternative representations. Even within the preferred S-system representation there are options, depending on the method of aggregating fluxes, that become especially apparent when one considers reversible pathways. In this paper we focus on the paradigm situation and clearly distinguish the two most common strategies for generating an S-system representation. The first is called the "reversible" strategy because it involves aggregating incoming fluxes separately from outgoing fluxes for each metabolite to define a net flux that can be positive, negative, or zero. The second is the "irreversible" strategy, which involves aggregating forward and reverse fluxes through each reaction to define a net flux that is always positive. This second strategy has been used almost exclusively in all variants of BST. The principal results of detailed analyses are the following: (1) All S-system representations predict the same changes in dependent concentrations for a given change in an independent concentration. (2) The reversible strategy is superior to the irreversible on the basis of several criteria, including accuracy in predicting steady-state flux, accuracy in predicting transient responses, and robustness of representation. (3) Only the reversible strategy yields a representation that is able to capture the characteristic feature of amphibolic pathways, namely, the reversal of nets flux under physiological conditions. Finally, the results document the wide range of variation over which the S-system representation can accurately predict the behavior of intact biochemical systems and confirm similar results of earlier studies [Voit and Savageau, Biochemistry 26: 6869-6880 (1987)]. PMID- 2520171 TI - Use of implicit methods from general sensitivity theory to develop a systematic approach to metabolic control. I. Unbranched pathways. AB - It is shown that metabolic control theory (MCT), is its present form, is a particular case of general sensitivity theory, which studies the effects of parameter variations on the behavior of dynamic systems. It has been shown that metabolic control theory is obtained from this more general theory for the particular case of steady-state and linear relationships between velocities and enzyme concentrations. In such conditions the relationships between elasticities and flux control coefficients are easily obtained. These relationships are in the form of a matrix product constructed in a priori form. Relationships between combined response coefficients and concentration control coefficients are presented. The use of implicit methodology from general sensitivity theory provides a generalization of MCT, which is applied to unbranched pathways. For this particular case, provided the matrices have been properly constructed, the matrix of global properties (flux and concentration control coefficients) can be obtained by inversion of the matrix of local properties (elasticities). The theorems of MCT (concentration summation, flux summation, flux connectivity, and concentration connectivity) applicable for unbranched pathways are directly obtained by inspection of the matrix product. With these results, the present theoretical basis of MCT is extended with a more structured framework that allows a wider range of application. The results make clearer the relatedness of MCT to the more general approach provided by biochemical systems theory (BST). PMID- 2520173 TI - Distribution of births in an abrupt sequence: a stochastic model. AB - A probability model for the distribution of number of births in a time segment (T0, T0 + T), where T0 is a distant time point since the start of the process, has been derived. The provision that birth propensities in the process of human reproduction may change over time has been considered. The model is illustrated with a set of observed data. PMID- 2520172 TI - Use of implicit methods from general sensitivity theory to develop a systematic approach to metabolic control. II. Complex systems. AB - In the accompanying paper (Cascante et al., this issue) we have used general sensitivity theory to develop a matrix algebra that, in the case of sequential reactions, directly relates global and local properties of a given system. In complex biochemical systems this direct relationship is not possible due to the existence of linear dependencies among fluxes and among metabolite concentrations (conserved aggregate concentrations in BST or moiety-conserved concentrations in MCT). In this paper our matrix algebra is applied to conserved cycles and branched pathways, and it is shown that with minor modifications it again relates global properties to the local properties of the enzymes in the system. In the case of conserved cycles, elasticities become modified due to the existence of linear dependencies among the concentration variables in the cycle. In branched pathways, new matrix elements involving ratios of fluxes appear. With these modifications, one can show that the so-called theorems of metabolic control theory specific to these types of pathways are special cases of more general relationships. Rules for the construction of matrices relating global and local properties are given that apply to an arbitrary system of cycles and branches. The implicit approach developed in these papers, which is a generalization of that used in MCT, allows one to make more direct comparisons with the general explicit approach originally developed in BST. PMID- 2520174 TI - Population diffusion in a two-patch environment. AB - A model of a single-species population diffusing in a two-patch environment is proposed. It is shown that there exists a positive, monotonic, continuous steady state solution with continuous flux, in the cases of both reservoir and no-flux boundary conditions, that is asymptotically stable. In the case of patches with equal carrying capacities, it is shown that the uniform steady state is globally asymptotically stable. PMID- 2520175 TI - On the formulation of discrete-time epidemic models. AB - Jacquez constructed a properly posed, more general model for the Reed-Frost epidemic process by assuming independent behaviors for the susceptibles and introducing the generating function for the number of contacts per person. An alternative approach is proposed here that relies on similar hypotheses for the infectives and allows the usual chain-binomial structure of the infection process to be extended. For this new model, the derivation of the final size and the threshold phenomenon becomes much simpler. A detailed analysis and its generalization to heterogeneous populations and continuous-time models will be the subject of a forthcoming paper. PMID- 2520176 TI - Fixation probabilities for advantageous mutants: a note on multiplication and sampling. AB - If the average number of gametes produced by the individual is small, as may be the case for haploid organisms, then sampling with and without replacement can lead to considerable differences in the fixation probabilities of mutant alleles. As a function of the population size N, these probabilities converge quickly to the survival probabilities given by branching processes with Poisson or Bernoulli offspring distributions. PMID- 2520178 TI - Diffusion-mediated persistence in two-species competition Lotka-Volterra model. AB - We consider a system composed of two Lotka-Volterra patches connected by diffusion. Each patch has two competitors. Conditions for persistence of the system are given. It is proved that the system can be made persistent under appropriate diffusion coefficients ensuring the instability of boundary equilibria, even if each species is not persistent within each patch. The choice of the coefficients depends closely on the patch dynamics without diffusion. PMID- 2520177 TI - Stable controls in age-dependent population dynamics. AB - The classical age-dependent population model is considered, in which mortality depends on total population and fertility is age-dependent. It is shown that in general such systems are not completely controllable with respect to a control variable in the mortality function, but that in certain circumstances a suitable control can be found to hold the population at a specified level. PMID- 2520179 TI - A law of small numbers for a mutation process. AB - A system of particles will consist of 2n particles at time n, n = 0,1,2,...; each of the particles is either blue or white. At time 0 the particle is white. In the time interval (0,1) this particle mutates to blue with probability p. At time 1 the particle splits into two particles of the same color. At any time n greater than or equal to 1 the 2n particles act independently of each other and of their ancestral histories; during the time interval (n, n + 1) each white particle mutates to blue with probability p, and each blue particle mutates to white with probability alpha. The problem is to find the distribution of the number, Xn, of blue particles at time n - 0 when n is large and p = pn and alpha = alpha n are small. PMID- 2520180 TI - Effect of non-well-mixed compartment and bulk flow on diffusion through a pore. AB - The assumptions of well-mixed and zero bulk flow in compartmental analysis are reexamined. Using Poiseuille flow inside and radial flow outside a pore, the mass transfer equations are solved by perturbations on simple diffusion. Formulas are obtained for solute distribution, total mass transfer, and apparent permeability. The effects of non-well mixing and bulk flow are discussed. PMID- 2520183 TI - Sampling properties of the asymptotic behavior of age- or stage-grouped population models. AB - The discrete-time linear recurrent models proposed by Leslie in 1945 and Usher in 1966 for age-or stage-grouped populations are discussed with emphasis on the random nature, due to sampling variations, of their well-known asymptotic behavior. The statistical properties of the estimated asymptotic multiplication rate, stage, or age stable structures and mean generation time are inspected by both a theoretical approach and a simulation procedure. Illustrative case studies provide some order of magnitudes of the sampling bias and variance of these statistics. PMID- 2520182 TI - Analytic solution of a dynamic pool model incorporating constant marginal cost and discount rates. AB - A simple dynamic pool model is extended to describe the economics of a single species fishery by incorporating constant marginal cost and discount rates. Assuming that the population has already come to equilibrium under an initial fishing mortality rate and that any change in that rate is to be sustained indefinitely, the model can be solved analytically to yield the optimal fishing mortality rate. When this rate is expressed as a proportion of the natural mortality rate, the solution takes the form of a third-degree polynomial whose coefficients are simple functions of four other parameters. The solution exhibits positive conservation effects as long as all four parameters are sufficiently high. These conservation effects may be great enough to warrant closing the fishery when the marginal cost rate exceeds a well-defined limit. PMID- 2520181 TI - Species preservations in an optimal harvest model with random prices. AB - In this paper, we consider an optimal harvest model in which the objective is to maximize the expected return. The unit price of biomass is assumed constant until a random time when the price increases by a given amount. Furthermore, due to obvious environmental protection requirements, it is assumed that the fishery population is bounded from below for all time so as to reduce the danger of species extinction. Clearly, this problem is an optimal control problem in which a random parameter is involved. However, due to its special structure, it is shown that the problem is convertible into a deterministic optimal control problem and hence is solvable by an existing optimal control software package, MISER. The practical implication of several computed results obtained by this approach is discussed. They are also compared with other related results in the literature. PMID- 2520184 TI - A density-dependent Leslie matrix model. AB - A density-dependent Leslie matrix model introduced in 1948 by Leslie is mathematically analyzed. It is shown that the behavior is similar to that of the constant Leslie matrix. In the primitive case, the density-dependent Leslie matrix model has an asymptotic distribution corresponding to the logistic equation. However, in the imprimitive case, the asymptotic distribution is periodic, with period depending on the imprimitivity index. PMID- 2520185 TI - A note on stability of discrete population models. AB - P. Cull (1981) and G. Rosencranz (1983) studied a discrete population model described by the first-order difference equation xt+1 = g(xt) and obtained an important result on the global stability of the equilibrium point means when g(x) has only one extreme point (a maximum) in (0, means). Motivated by work of M. Kot and W. M. Schaffer (1984), a more general case is considered in which g(x) can have more then one maximum point in (0, means), and results on global stability are obtained. These results are applied to develop tests for global stability of the equilibrium point that imply other results in the literature on global stability. PMID- 2520186 TI - Hopf bifurcation and stable limit cycle behavior in the spread of infectious disease, with special application to fox rabies. PMID- 2520187 TI - Transfers between free and combined oxygen flows in determining facilitated transport with membranes on the transport path. AB - The facilitated transport of a species brought about by a diffusible carrier is mediated by the sharing of the total flow between the flow of the free species (fd) and of the species-carrier compound (fc). The presence of membranes impermeable to the carrier on the transport path is accompanied by transfers between fd and fc in regions next to the membranes. These transfers are associated with differences between the current species-carrier concentration and the one that would exist at chemical equilibrium with the free species. These differences determine that the actual facilitated transport is smaller than the possible maximum. Analytic approximations to describe these differences are obtained; they are expressed in terms of physiochemical entities germane to the transport. This leads to a better conceptual understanding of the process. A relatively small system of algebraic equations for the numerical solution of the facilitated transport is formulated. A feature of this approach is that, instead of matching the values of functions at some points, the flows derived from integrals evaluated over some intervals are matched. The expressions for the physicochemical entities obtained contain the parameters explicitly; this permits analysis of the mechanisms involved in the dependence of the facilitated transport on the parameters of the system. It is shown, for instance, that the increase of the "on" chemical coefficient may result in either an increase or a decrease of the facilitated transport, depending on the current values of the parameters. PMID- 2520189 TI - An alternative stochastic framework for estimating pure measures of fertility. AB - A stochastic fertility model is developed that incorporates a state of "viable pregnancy" within parity i. This model is used as a framework to derive formulas expressing relationships between various central rates and probabilities within parity i. Specifically, formulas are derived to relate the total fertility rate with the parity progression probability, a pregnancy rate with a pregnancy progression probability, and a direct fertility rate with a direct parity progression probability. PMID- 2520188 TI - Two predators feeding on two prey species: a result on permanence. AB - For biological populations the precise asymptotic behavior of the corresponding dynamic system is probably less important than the question of extinction and survival of species. An ecological differential equation is called permanent if there exists some level k greater than 0 such that if the number xi(0) of species i at time 0 is positive for i = 1,2, ..., n then xi(t) greater than k for all sufficiently large times t Characterizations for permanence in a four-species prey-predator system modeled by the Lotka-Volterra equation are presented. The method used is based on a combination of two well-known approaches to dealing with permanence. An interesting feature is the occurrence of heteroclinic cycles. PMID- 2520190 TI - An epidemiological model for direct and indirect transmission of typhoid fever. AB - The modified SIS epidemiological model considers the usual direct transmission (short cycle) and indirect transmission (long cycle) of typhoid fever. Thresholds are determined, and the equilibrium points are shown to be globally stable. Local stability of the equilibrium points is shown in the corresponding model with vaccines. After estimating parameters using current statistical data for typhoid fever in Chile, computer simulations are used to obtain the numerical behavior of this disease and to estimate the effect of several control policies. PMID- 2520191 TI - Conditions for uniqueness of limit cycles in general predator-prey systems. AB - Using a transformation to a generalized Lienard system, theorems are presented that give conditions under which unique limit cycles for generalized ecological systems, including those of predator-prey form, exist. The generalized systems contain those studied by Rosenzweig and MacArthur (1963); Hsu, Hubbell, and Waltman (1978); Kazarinnoff and van den Driessche (1978); Cheng (1981); Liou and Cheng (1987); and Kuang and Freedman (1988). Although very similar in approach to the result presented by Kuang and Freedman, the conditions presented here are of simpler form and in terms of the original (untransformed) functions. The results also apply to more general growth terms for the prey as shown in the examples provided. In particular, an immigration term is allowable. PMID- 2520192 TI - A Green's function method for analysis of oxygen delivery to tissue by microvascular networks. AB - A theoretical model is formulated for analyzing oxygen delivery from an arbitrary network configuration of cylindrical microvessels to a finite region of tissue. In contrast to models based on the classical Krogh cylinder approach, this model requires no a priori assumptions concerning the extent of the tissue region supplied with oxygen by each vessel segment. Steady-state conditions are assumed, and oxygen consumption in the tissue is assumed to be uniform. The nonlinear dissociation characteristics of oxyhemoglobin are taken into account. A computationally efficient Green's function approach is used, in which the tissue oxygen field is expressed in terms of the distribution of source strengths along each segment. The utility of the model is illustrated by analyses of oxygen delivery to a cuboidal tissue region by a single segment and by a six-segment network. It is found that the fractional contribution of the proximal segments to total oxygen delivery increases with decreasing flow rate and metabolic rate. PMID- 2520194 TI - Bounds on life expectancy for the Rayleigh and Weibull distributions. AB - Bounds are presented for the life expectancy or the mean residual life of an individual whose lifetime is a random variable X following a Rayleigh distribution or more generally a Weibull distribution. Simple transformations of the variables give inequalities on the Mills' ratio and the incomplete gamma functions. Some numerical computations are also reported to compare the lower and upper bounds with the exact value of the life expectancy function for several values of the parameter. When the lifetime follows a Gompertz distribution, the problem becomes complicated, and it has not been possible to construct bounds on the life expectancy function. The importance of the Gompertz distribution in the dynamics of normal and tumor growth and in the embryonic and postnatal growth of birds and mammals is demonstrated, and life expectancy is evaluated by numerical methods for a number of parameter values. PMID- 2520195 TI - A methodology for compartmental model indistinguishability. AB - The problem of constructing all minimal compartmental models that are indistinguishable through input-output knowledge alone from some given model is examined. The main tool in this analysis is a set of geometric properties that can be deduced from input-output knowledge and hence must be equally true in any two indistinguishable models. These properties, together with preservation of the form of the model's transfer function(s), provide an effective means for producing a set of candidate models for indistinguishability. PMID- 2520193 TI - Geometric optics of trilobite eyes: a theoretical study of the shape of the aspherical interface in the cornea of schizochroal eyes of phacopid trilobites. AB - A general method is given to determine theoretically the shape of the aspherical interface that eliminates spherical aberration in an optionally shaped thick lens. The theory is applied to trilobite eyes. On the basis of the geometric optical method presented, the refractive indices and focal length of the original corneal lenses of trilobites can be determined. The shape of the aspherical interface in the cornea of some phacopid trilobites with schizochroal eyes is investigated. The theoretical aspherical interfaces agree well with the real ones. PMID- 2520197 TI - An exponential ESS model and its application to frequency-dependent selection. AB - A nonlinear ESS model is put forward, that is, a nonnegative exponential ESS model. For a simple case, we discuss the existence, uniqueness, and stability of an ESS. As an application of the model, we give a quantitative analysis of frequency-dependent selection in population genetics when the rare type has an advantage. PMID- 2520196 TI - Effects of asymmetric division on a stochastic model of the cell division cycle. AB - The stochastic model of cell division formulated by Alt and Tyson is generalized to the case of imprecise binary fission. Closed-form expressions are derived for the generation-time distribution, the birth-size and division-size distributions, the beta curve, and the correlation coefficient of generation times of sister cells. The theoretical results are compared to observations of cell division statistics in a culture of fission yeast. PMID- 2520198 TI - Weak ergodicity of population evolution processes. AB - The weak ergodic theorems of mathematical demography state that the age distribution of a closed population is asymptotically independent of the initial distribution. In this paper, we provide a new proof of the weak ergodic theorem of the multistate population model with continuous time. The main tool to attain this purpose is a theory of multiplicative processes, which was mainly developed by Garrett Birkhoff, who showed that ergodic properties generally hold for an appropriate class of multiplicative processes. First, we construct a general theory of multiplicative processes on a Banach lattice. Next, we formulate a dynamical model of a multistate population and show that its evolution operator forms a multiplicative process on the state space of the population. Subsequently, we investigate a sufficient condition that guarantees the weak ergodicity of the multiplicative process. Finally, we prove the weak and strong ergodic theorems for the multistate population and resolve the consistency problem. PMID- 2520199 TI - Like-with-like preference and sexual mixing models. AB - Two new general methods for incorporating like-with-like preference into one-sex mixing models in epidemiology are presented. The first is a generalization of the preferred mixing equation, while the second comprises a transformation of a general preference function for partners of similar sexual activity levels. Both methods satisfy the constraints implicit in a mixing model. The behavior of the transformation preference method is illustrated, and it is compared with the standard proportionate mixing model. PMID- 2520200 TI - Persistence of an infectious disease in a subdivided population. AB - The transmission dynamics of a communicable disease in a subdivided population where the spread among groups follows the proportionate mixing model while the within-group transmission can correspond to preferred mixing, proportionate mixing among subgroups, or mixing between social and nonsocial subgroups, is analyzed. It is shown that the threshold condition for the disease to persist is that either (i) the disease can persist within at least one group through intragroup contacts, or--if (i) does not hold--(ii) the intergroup transmission is sufficiently high. The among-group transmission is computed as an average where each subgroup's reproductive number is weighted according to its intragroup activity level squared and the total number of cases that one infectious individual will cause through intragroup contacts. The model thus allows for a study of the relative importance of communitywide disease transmission and of disease transmission within geographically or socially separate groups. PMID- 2520201 TI - Effects of product inhibition in metabolic pathways: stability and control. AB - The effect of product inhibition in metabolic pathways is examined using (a) an unbranched pathway in the absence of endproduct inhibition and (b) an unbranched pathway with endproduct inhibition. It is shown that product inhibition may be considered an alternative mechanism to endproduct inhibition for reducing the overall logarithmic gain of an unregulated pathway. When product inhibition and endproduct inhibition are both present, they act in concert with each other to lower the overall logarithmic gain and alleviate parameter sensitivities. Product inhibition is also found to exert a stabilizing influence that competes with the destabilizing effect of endproduct inhibition in controlling the dynamic behavior. PMID- 2520202 TI - Global positive coexistence of a nonlinear elliptic biological interacting model. AB - The purpose of this note is to give a necessary and sufficient condition for the coexistence of positive solutions to a rather general type of elliptic predator prey system of the Dirichlet problem on the bounded domain omega when omega is a subset of Rn is large. The result is that the partial differential equation system possesses positive coexistence if and only if the corresponding ordinary differential equation system has positive equilibrium, the positive constant states. This result thus yields an algebraically computable criterion for the positive coexistence of predator and prey in many biological models. PMID- 2520203 TI - Mathematical models of tumor growth. IV. Effects of a necrotic core. AB - Two mathematical models for the control of the growth of a tumor by diffusion of mitotic inhibitor are presented. The inhibitor production rate is taken to be uniform in a necrotic core for the first model and in the nonnecrotic region for the second model. Regions of stable and unstable growth are determined, and conclusions are drawn about the limiting peripheral widths of stable tissue growth for both models. Comparisons of the results from the two models indicate that the models are sensitive to the source distributions of inhibitor production. PMID- 2520204 TI - A note on single-channel autocorrelation functions. AB - It is shown for time-reversible ion channel gating mechanisms that the sojourn time autocorrelation functions are necessarily nonnegative, decreasing, and convex. It is also shown, again for time-reversible mechanisms, that the lagged moments of all orders are determined by the first three moments. The application of these results to the statistical analysis of single-channel kinetics is briefly discussed. PMID- 2520205 TI - Parameter space boundaries for unidentifiable compartmental models. AB - Methods for dealing with unidentifiable compartmental models are first reviewed, emphasizing the parameter interval analysis and exhaustive modeling approaches. More general methods are presented for generating the set of all nonnegative parameter solutions that localize the parameters within bounded regions of parameter space and extend previously published parameter bounding strategies. Each point of these regions is an equivalent solution of the parameter identification problem. If a point on the boundary is selected, at least one of the parameters vanishes and an equivalent submodel is obtained. This property shows the close relationship between the exhaustive modeling and parameter interval analysis approaches. PMID- 2520206 TI - Theory of cell age distribution in suspension culture with feed and/or drain. AB - A mixed problem for the M'Kendrick-von Foerster equation satisfied by the number density function in terms of the age of the viable cells in a suspension culture with feed and/or drain is solved, and a method of calculating the number density function and time-dependent generation time from observed data of cell number and cell mass is presented. This theory is adequate to analyze the growth of cells that undergo binary fission. The equation of mass balance follows as a natural consequence of this treatment. The equation of substrate balance in consideration of the effect of cell volume is derived rigorously. PMID- 2520207 TI - Computational issues of importance to the inverse recovery of epicardial potentials in a realistic heart-torso geometry. AB - In vitro data from a realistic-geometry electrolytic tank were used to demonstrate the consequences of computational issues critical to the ill-posed inverse problem in electrocardiography. The boundary element method was used to discretize the relationship between the body surface potentials and epicardial cage potentials. Variants of Tikhonov regularization were used to stabilize the inversion of the body surface potentials in order to reconstruct the epicardial surface potentials. The computational issues investigated were (1) computation of the regularization parameter; (2) effects of inaccuracy in locating the position of the heart; and (3) incorporation of a priori information on the properties of epicardial potentials into the regularization methodology. Two methods were suggested by which a priori information could be incorporated into the regularization formulation: (1) use of an estimate of the epicardial potential distribution everywhere on the surface and (2) use of regional bounds on the excursion of the potential. Results indicate that the a posteriori technique called CRESO, developed by Colli Franzone and coworkers, most consistently derives the regularization parameter closest to the optimal parameter for this experimental situation. The sensitivity of the inverse computation in a realistic geometry torso to inaccuracies in estimating heart position are consistent with results from the eccentric spheres model; errors of 1 cm are well tolerated, but errors of 2 cm or greater result in a loss of position and amplitude information. Finally, estimates and bounds based on accurate, known information successfully lower the relative error associated with the inverse and have the potential to significantly enhance the amplitude and feature position information obtainable from the inverse-reconstructed epicardial potential map. PMID- 2520208 TI - Cancer chemotherapy with immunostimulation: a nonhomogeneous stochastic model for drug resistance. I. One drug case. AB - In this paper we develop a nonhomogeneous stochastic model for drug resistance in chemotherapy that permits killing resistant cells with immunostimulation. The probability distribution of the number of resistant tumor cells, the probability of no resistant tumor cells, and the expected value and cumulants of the number of resistant tumor cells are derived under very general conditions. The application of these results is illustrated with some numerical examples. PMID- 2520209 TI - A study of the purine/pyrimidine codon occurrence with a reduced centered variable and an evaluation compared to the frequency statistic. AB - With the three-letter alphabet [R,Y,N] (R = purine, Y = pyrimidine, N = R or Y), there are 26 codons (NNN being excluded): RNN,...,NNY (six codons at two unspecified bases N), RRN,...,NYY (12 codons at one unspecified base N), RRR,...,YYY (eight specified codons). A statistical methodology that uses the codon frequency and a reduced centered variable leads to similar results for a codon occurrence study, regardless of gene function and regardless of a particular protein coding gene taxonomic population. Therefore, this variable can be considered a new codon usage index, whose use removes certain nonsignificant results found with the frequency statistic. This methodology identifies the common and rare codons (i.e., the codons having the highest and lowest occurrence) and leads to a model of codon evolution at three successive states: RNN, then RNY, and finally RYY. Some biological relations between this model and the YRY(N)6YRY preferential occurrence are also presented. PMID- 2520210 TI - Optimal input design: case study of the metabolic process. AB - An optimal input of nutrients into the metabolic process of the individual subject so as to effect desired therapeutic results is particularly important for the critically ill. A patient-related, individualized nutrients optimization procedure is proposed here. The procedure is applicable to any time-invariant and deterministic metabolic model that is bound by one or more quantitative limiting criteria. As a case in hand, the procedure is used to optimize the individual metabolic needs of critically ill patients. The results indicate that, given a proper metabolic model, the patient may be treated on an individual appropriateness basis rather than on the traditional statistical intuitive approach. PMID- 2520211 TI - A study on continuous follow-the-leader (FTL) gaits: an effective walking algorithm over rough terrain. AB - The follow-the-leader (FTL) gait is an effective walking algorithm for a legged system to traverse a rough terrain. In an FTL gait, all the legs simply place at the footprints made by the legs ahead of them. By this way the demand on foothold selection is significantly reduced. A special category of FTL gaits, called continuous FTL gaits, provide a smooth body motion during walking and enable the legged system to reach a higher speed. In this paper, a comprehensive study of continuous FTL gaits is presented. The equations for two types of continuous FTL gaits are formulated. The stability of these continuous FTL gaits is studied analytically and verified numerically. Strategies of forbidden area avoidance and special methods of large foot adjustment are introduced. The motion resulting from the use of these strategies and methods is simulated and checked using computer graphics. PMID- 2520212 TI - A mathematical model of facultative mutualism with populations interacting in a food chain. AB - Facultative mutualism with populations interacting in a food chain is modeled by a system of four autonomous ordinary differential equations. Two cases are considered: mutualism with the prey and mutualism with the first predator. In both cases persistence and extinction criteria are developed in terms of the invariant flows on the boundaries. PMID- 2520213 TI - 99mTc-labelled HIDA scintigraphy in assessment of bile leakage after removal of T tube from the common bile duct. PMID- 2520215 TI - The analysis of corticosteroid acetates by gas chromatography/negative ion chemical ionization mass spectrometry. PMID- 2520214 TI - Combined supercritical-fluid chromatography/mass spectrometry in the analysis of diuron in plasma using on-line phase-system switching. AB - On-line sample pretreatment by means of the phase-system switching approach is an interesting technique for the analysis of aqueous samples, e.g., plasma, by means of supercritical-fluid chromatography. In order to analyse plasma samples the following analytical procedure is used. The plasma sample is injected on to a short precolumn, which is washed with water and subsequently dried with nitrogen. Next, the solutes are desorbed with the supercritical mobile phase, analysed with packed-column supercritical-fluid chromatography and detected with either a UV detector or a mass spectrometer, equipped with a moving-belt interface. The herbicide diuron is selected as a test compound to study the feasibility of this approach. Using a selective detector the procedure is sufficiently sensitive to detect diuron in plasma, but not appropriate to detect the diuron metabolites in a post-mortem plasma sample. These have been identified with liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. The detection limit of diuron in plasma using the procedure described is about 30 ng/mL. PMID- 2520216 TI - Translational energy release and stereochemistry of steroids. 14. Epimeric dihydroxy steroids of the androstane series. AB - The stereochemistry of dihydroxy steroids, both the mode of the A/B ring junctions and the configuration of OH groups, may be determined from translational energy (T50%) measurements for the loss of a CH.3 radical, from the ratios of metastable-ion peak heights to those of the main beam (determined for the dehydration reactions), and by comparing unimolecular and collision-induced, mass-analysed ion kinetic energy spectra of the new main beam of [M-H2O]+ ions (i.e. those formed via dehydration of metastable molecular ions of epimeric hydroxy steroids in the first field-free region of a double-focusing mass spectrometer. PMID- 2520218 TI - Metastable ions arising from pseudomolecular [M-H]- ions produced by fast-atom bombardment negative-ion mass spectrometry of ecdysteroids. AB - Metastable ions arising from pseudomolecular [M-H]- ions produced by fast-atom bombardment negative-ion mass spectrometry of a range of free ecdysteroids, ecdysteroid conjugates and polar metabolites were investigated by means of linked scanning at constant B/E. Free ecdysteroids displayed daughter-ion spectra which allow 20-hydroxyecdysteroids and ecdysteroids lacking C-20 hydroxylation to be readily distinguished. The ejection of acetic acid from acetylated ecdysteroids was also readily detectable. Characteristic metastable-ion decomposition of ecdysteroid acids was not observed, presumably as a result of charge localization. High-mass daughter ions were also lacking in the case of phosphate conjugates. PMID- 2520217 TI - Rapid analysis of a peptide by fast-atom bombardment mass spectrometry after polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. AB - Gel electrophoresis has been a powerful technique for the separation of peptides and proteins for many years. After electrophoresis separation on a polyacrylamide gel, the peptide bradykinin was localized using Coomassie Blue as a staining dye. Excess dye was removed by washing the gel with water. For mass spectrometric analysis, bands containing the peptide were crushed, extracted with acetic acid and the eluent applied to the fast-atom bombardment probe. Under these conditions the protonated molecule of bradykinin was clearly observed. Also apparent were sequence ions at about the same intensity observed from authentic bradykinin. PMID- 2520219 TI - Application of liquid chromatography/thermospray mass spectrometry to studies on the formation of glutathione and cysteine conjugates from monomethylcarbamate metabolites of bambuterol. AB - Liquid chromatography/thermospray mass spectrometry (LC/TSP-MS) has been used to identify and study the rates of formation of S-(N-methylcarbamoyl)cysteine and S (N-methylcarbamoyl)glutathione as products of the in vitro reaction of cysteine and glutathione, respectively, with two monomethylcarbamate metabolites of the bronchodilator pro-drug bambuterol. The conjugates of interest afforded MH+ species and yielded abundant structurally informative fragment ions which were employed in the development of quantitative, selected-ion monitoring assays. It is concluded that LC/TSP-MS represents a rapid and convenient approach to the direct aqueous-phase analysis of the class of S-(N-alkylcarbamoyl) conjugates of cysteine and glutathione. PMID- 2520220 TI - Effect of trifluoroacetic acid on the reduction of disulfide bridges in peptides analyzed by fast-atom bombardment mass spectrometry. AB - Some of the factors that influence the reduction of disulfide-containing peptides under fast-atom bombardment have been investigated using two neurohormonal peptides that include disulfide bridges in their structures. Deaminoarginine vasopressin (DAVP) and arginine-vasopressin (AVP) have been analyzed as their acetate and trifluoroacetate salts. Results obtained in a thioglycerol matrix indicate that the peptides analyzed as their acetate salts are completely reduced under bombardment, whereas the trifluoroacetate salts show little evidence of reduction. Addition of trifluoroacetic acid to the acetate sample prior to bombardment inhibits reduction whereas addition after bombardment shows no effect on the reduction, thereby indicating the irreversibility of the process. Time monitoring experiments conducted with the acetate salts of DAVP and AVP in common matrices such as thioglycerol, dithiothreitol + diethioerythritol, glycerol, hydroxyethyldisulfide and nitrobenzyl-alcohol demonstrate an important effect of the chemical nature of the matrix on reduction. In matrices containing thiol groups, the reduction is extensive, whereas it is almost suppressed in matrices such as hydroxyethyldisulfide and nitrobenzylalcohol. However, the addition of trifluoroacetic acid to all of these matrices essentially eliminates reduction and provides measured isotopic peak ratios that are in agreement with theoretically calculated values for these peptides. PMID- 2520221 TI - Electron ionization mass spectrometry for sequence analysis of glycosphingolipid mixtures by fractional evaporation in the ion source. Mass spectrometric evidence for an eleven-sugar glycolipid. AB - This paper describes the use of electron ionization mass spectrometry for structural characterization of a mixture of glycosphingolipids from a single human kidney and presents mass spectrometric evidence for the presence of an eleven-sugar glycolipid. A large amount of structural information is obtained from minor glycolipid constituents having long sugar chains by a fractional evaporation in the ion source, achieved by steadily increasing the ion-source temperature. PMID- 2520222 TI - Structural characterization of two isomeric dimethoxyindoles of biological interest, using high- and low-energy collisional spectroscopy. AB - It is not possible to distinguish isomers of biologically important dimethoxyindoles using electron-ionization mass spectra, but they may be distinguished by collisionally activated dissociation. In particular, energy resolved mass spectrometry yields the best data for distinguishing between these isomers. PMID- 2520223 TI - Cinnamic acid derivatives as matrices for ultraviolet laser desorption mass spectrometry of proteins. AB - The paper reports the discovery of three new matrices for the matrix-assisted laser desorption of proteins. These new matrices (sinapinic, ferulic and caffeic acids) are cinnamic acid derivatives that have several practical advantages over the nicotinic acid matrices previously used. These materials form much less intense photochemically generated adduct peaks in the protein quasimolecular ion signal and the adduct peaks that are present are easier to resolve. These matrices produce intense protonated-molecule ions from all of the proteins (over 50) so far examined. These new matrices are also very stable in a vacuum, allowing for their convenient use in very high vacuum applications (e.g., Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry). PMID- 2520224 TI - Matrix-assisted laser-desorption mass spectrometry using 355 nm radiation. AB - Matrix-assisted laser desorption of proteins with the 355 nm frequency-tripled output of a neodymium:yttrium-aluminium-garnet laser has been demonstrated. In order to produce desorption at this wavelength, the cinnamic acid derivatives ferulic, caffeic and sinapinic acids have been employed as matrices. Excellent sensitivity (routinely one pmol of protein) and good mass resolution (m/delta m 400, Full width at half maximum) have been obtained by this new method. Ultraviolet photo-spectrometry of the cinnamic acid derivative matrices suggests strongly that they can be used as protein laser-desorption matrices at any wavelength between 260 nm and 360 nm, allowing the development of laser desorption mass spectrometers based on nitrogen or excimer lasers. PMID- 2520225 TI - Identification of some glucuronides by direct liquid-inlet liquid chromatography/negative chemical-ionization mass spectrometry. PMID- 2520226 TI - Screening by tandem mass spectrometry for trace levels of alkylbenzenes. AB - Product ion spectra derived from molecule ions as the precursor ions for 14 alkylbenzenes have been studied under electron ionization and methane chemical ionization. The data have provided a satisfactory screening method for both detection and confirmation of such compounds at low parts per million levels. PMID- 2520227 TI - Fast-atom bombardment and thermospray mass spectrometry for the characterization of two glucuronide metabolites of methapyrilene. AB - Two conjugated metabolites of methapyrilene hydrochloride isolated from mouse hepatocytes were examined by mass spectrometry using fast-atom bombardment (FAB) and thermospray ionization. The major metabolite, methapyrilene glucuronide, was identified based on a prominent peak due to the protonated molecule as well as the loss of the dimethylamine and sugar moieties. Identification of the second metabolite was complicated by large signals associated with the biological sample matrix. The complementary nature of the fragmentation observed in the mass spectra using FAB and thermospray ionization allowed this metabolite to be identified as the desmethylmethapyrilene glucuronide. The fragmentation observed using FAB ionization was not greatly affected by the presence of the glucuronide moiety. While loss of the sugar moiety indicated a glucuronide, additional fragmentation confirmed the presence of the underlying ethylenediamine substructure which is characteristic of this class of antihistamines. PMID- 2520229 TI - Capillary-zone electrophoresis/fast-atom bombardment mass spectrometry: design of an on-line coaxial continuous-flow interface. AB - An on-line coaxial continuous-flow capillary-zone electrophoresis/fast-atom bombardment mass spectrometry (CZE/FAB-MS) interface is described. This interface is shown to be capable of acquiring mass spectra in an on-line fashion from low femtomole amounts of peptides while maintaining high (hundreds of thousands of plates) electrophoretic separation efficiencies. Active electrophoretic transport of the analytes directly to the FAB probe tip obviates the need for a transfer line from the end of the CZE capillary to this point, and thereby precludes the zone broadening that would otherwise occur both within such a transfer line and in the connections between the CZE column and the transfer line. The capability of acquiring an on-line tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) spectrum of an electrophoretically separated analyte using this interface is also demonstrated. PMID- 2520228 TI - Fast-atom bombardment tandem mass spectrometry of phosphohydroxylysine and related phosphohydroxy amino acids. AB - Phosphohydroxylysine a compound found in the urine of two patients with a possible inborn error of hydroxylysine metabolism, and related phosphohydroxycompounds were investigated with fast-atom bombardment tandem mass spectrometry techniques. This resulted in a reliable and quick identification method for phospho amino acids in general. PMID- 2520230 TI - Linked scans of peptides and protein digests: amino acid sequence determination of components of complex mixtures. AB - Two-sector linked-scan analysis of an unpurified proteolytic digest of a pyruvate decarboxylase enzyme (60,000 Da) has allowed the discovery and assignment of an amino-terminal post-translational modification and processing event. A difference in amino acid sequence from that predicted by a recently published nucleotide sequence has also been found. These results illustrate both the use and considerable potential of linked-scan methods for the analysis of complex biopolymer mixtures. PMID- 2520231 TI - Direct analysis of drugs by continuous-flow fast-atom bombardment and tandem mass spectrometry. AB - The techniques of continuous-flow fast-atom bombardment (CF-FAB) and tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) are combined and applied to the analysis of small molecular mass drugs (mol.wt less than 500 Da). The approach involves the interfacing of a CF-FAB inlet with a triple-stage quadrupole mass spectrometer, enabling the acquisition of collision-activated decomposition mass spectra of the drugs after FAB ionization. The relationship between a stable sample surface on the CF-FAB probe tip and the quality of the mass spectrum is discussed, as are practical methods for obtaining and maintaining surface stability. CF-FAB MS/MS spectra for several drugs are presented, including penicillin G, phentolamine, cocaine and benzoylecgonine. Minimum detection limits range from 50-500 pg injected, depending on the compound. The reproducibility of the integrated areas of peaks from repetitive injections is approximately five per cent. Data are also presented for the direct CF-FAB MS/MS analysis of cocaine and benzoylecgonine in spiked urine samples. PMID- 2520232 TI - Oligopeptide sequence analysis by collision-activated dissociation of multiply charged ions. PMID- 2520234 TI - Determination of lovastatin acid in serum by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. AB - The acid form of lovastatin, an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor, was analyzed by gas chromatography/negative-ion chemical ionization mass spectrometry after derivatization with pentafluorobenzyl bromide and bis (trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide (BSTFA). Mass spectrometry of this derivative produced a dominant [M-181]- ion under chemical ionization conditions using ammonia as the reagent gas. The limit of detection was approximately 2 pg injected on column. PMID- 2520233 TI - Comparison of amino acid sequence analysis by electron ionization and negative ion chemical ionization mass spectrometry. AB - The positive electron ionization and negative chemical ionization mass spectra of 15 different derivatives of the tripeptide Phe-Ala-Leu have been compared. Total ion currents and ion currents of sequence-characterizing ions have been measured and compared. The negative-ion spectra, using 10% carbon dioxide in argon as moderator gas, proved to be simpler and contained more abundant sequence ions than the positive electron ionization spectra. PMID- 2520235 TI - Computer-controlled sequencing of peptides by tandem mass spectrometry. AB - A fully automated computer-controlled system was used to generate series of different linked scans at constant B2E and constant neutral loss in the second field-free region. This system has been shown to be suitable for deriving the amino acid sequence of oligopeptides. PMID- 2520236 TI - Ion-spray mass spectrometry of marine neurotoxins. AB - Ion-spray mass spectrometry was investigated for the analysis of three marine neurotoxins: domoic acid, saxitoxin and tetrodotoxin. All three compounds gave positive-ion spectra with abundant ions of protonated molecules and no significant fragmentation. Domoic acid gave a negative-ion spectrum with a strong [M-H]- ion. Tandem mass spectrometry provided useful fragment-ion spectra for all compounds. Detection limits for flow injection analyses with selected-ion monitoring were determined to be 30 pg for saxitoxin, 100 pg for domoic acid and 200 pg for tetrodotoxin. Combining liquid chromatography with ion-spray mass spectrometry allowed the determination of domoic acid and some of its isomers in toxic shellfish tissue extracts. PMID- 2520237 TI - Microdetermination of glucose content of plasma and its isotopic enrichment using capillary gas chromatography/ammonia chemical-ionization mass spectrometry. AB - A new sensitive and precise method for the determination of the isotopic enrichment of [6,6-D2]glucose and concentration of glucose in plasma microsamples (20 microL) has been developed. Glucose was extracted from plasma samples by anion-cation column-exchange with absolute ethanol, derivatized as 1,2:3,5 bis(butylboronate)-6-acetyl-alpha-D-glucofuranose, and analysed by capillary gas chromatography/ammonia chemical-ionization mass spectrometry. This method gives a better reproducibility and precision (variation coefficient below 1%) than methods using isobutane chemical ionization. Stable isotopes are being used increasingly to investigate energy metabolism in vivo. Recent work has involved the development of methodologies, especially mass spectrometry, to perform tracer experiments using the stable isotopes 3H, 13C, or 13N(1-4). Chemical-ionization mass spectrometry is extensively used for the analysis of isotopically labelled amino acids. In neonates and children, "true" glucose production can be measured by the continuous infusion of the stable isotopically labelled tracer 6,6 dideutero-glucose (6,6-D2-glucose), and analytical measurement is performed using gas chromatography/electron-ionization mass spectrometry (GC/EIMS). Herein, we present a new, simple and sensitive method for the determination of the isotopic enrichment of [6,6-D2]glucose and measurement of the concentration of glucose in plasma microsamples (20 microL), based on the use of capillary gas chromatography/ammonia chemical-ionization mass spectrometry of 1,2:3,5 bis(butylboronate)-6-acetyl-alpha-D-glucofuranose. PMID- 2520238 TI - Influence of metal ions on the acquisition and quality of 252Cf plasma-desorption mass spectra. AB - The presence of a few mol per cent of Ca2+ ions considerably modified the 252Cf plasma-desorption mass spectrum of a phosphorylated glycolipid. In the negative ion mode, increasing amounts of Ca2+ caused gradual disappearance of the spectrum; it was quenched at the molar ratio 3 Ca2+/4 glycolipid. Clusters as big as 5500 were observed at certain ratios of Ca2+/glycolipid. Similar, but less pronounced effects were seen in the positive-ion mode. PMID- 2520239 TI - Comparison of fast-atom bombardment, thermal ionization and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry for the measurement of 64Zn/67Zn stable isotopes in human nutrition studies. AB - Fast-atom bombardment, thermal ionization and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry are contrasted in comparative measurements of 64Zn/67Zn isotope ratios on samples isolated in the course of a human mineral-nutrition experiment. The data are evaluated with reference to the precision normally required in enriched stable-isotope mineral-nutrition studies, and the convenience of the mass spectrometric techniques is also compared. PMID- 2520240 TI - Elucidation of some fragmentations of small peptides using sequential mass spectrometry on a hybrid instrument. AB - Sequential daughter-ion-scanning analyses of small peptides have been performed using a hybrid tandem instrument of BEqQ configuration. Precursor ions are selected by B and allowed or induced (by high-energy collisional activation) to decompose in the region preceding E. Decoupling of E from the accelerating voltage permits the selection of the first-generation daughter ion whilst retaining appropriate float voltages for the quadrupole assemblies. The daughter ion selected by E is further subjected to low-energy collisional-activation dissociation (CAD) in q and the fragment-ion spectrum is obtained by scanning Q. The sequential daughter-ion-scanning technique has been used to establish that 'internal' fragments of the types, (AY') and (BY'), are formed via initial Y-type cleavage. Fragmentation of a protonated peptide (angiotensin III) by loss of the C-terminal amino acid residue, yielding a (B'n + OH) ion, is reported for the first time. This process is analogous to that previously described for metal cationized peptides. PMID- 2520241 TI - Use of gas chromatography/mass spectrometry selected-ion recording for sterol content pattern recognition in fungal classification. AB - Chemotaxonomic studies are frequently limited by the volume of data obtained and the difficulty of reducing this to statistically interpretable results. This paper describes the use of a straightforward procedure for relating the pattern of occurrence of sterols in fungi, analysed by mass spectrometry, to their classification. PMID- 2520242 TI - Factors affecting the ultraviolet laser desorption of proteins. AB - The production of high-mass quasimolecular ions from proteins by matrix-assisted ultraviolet laser desorption is described. A simple time-of-flight system using a Q-switched frequency-quadrupled Nd-YAG laser to desorb protein molecules is shown to have a mass range of up to 116,000 u by the observation of intact, singly charged quasimolecular ions from 700 fmol of beta-galactosidase subunit (mol.wt = 116,336 Da). Both positive- and negative-ion spectra of proteins are shown. Four new matrix materials, with properties as good as or better than nicotinic acid, are described. A mass resolution of approximately 500 (full width at half maximum definition) is demonstrated for proteins with mol.wt less than 20,000 Da. Product species, formed by fast photochemical reactions in the matrix, are observed to form adduct ions with protein molecules. These adduct ions are a significant cause of the observed broadness of protein quasimolecular ion peaks. The practical physical considerations in detection of large-mass quasimolecular ions from laser desorption, such as detector overloading, are discussed. PMID- 2520243 TI - Negative-ion mass spectrometry of substituted adenine bases and adenosine nucleosides. AB - The negative-ion chemical ionization (ammonia, 5 Pa source pressure) mass spectra of a series of substituted adenine bases, adenosine nucleosides, and the trimethylsilyl derivatives of the nucleosides are described. Selected ions from these spectra were subject to collisionally activated dissociation with mass analysed ion kinetic energy (CAD/MIKE) analysis of the products and the spectra assessed for information content. In addition to observing strong peaks due to quasimolecular ions and heterocyclic-base ions, it proved possible to differentiate between 2'-, 3'- and 5'-deoxy and between 2'- and 3'-O-methyl isomers. The negative-ion chemical ionization spectra of four methyladenines are essentially identical, but could be clearly distinguished from each other by CAD/MIKE analysis. PMID- 2520244 TI - Laser-induced desorption of proteins. AB - Laser-induced desorption mass spectrometry has been applied to a number of proteins in the mass range 5000-150,000 u. The beam from an excimer-laser-pumped dye-laser at 266 nm has been focused to a spot of about 50 microns in diameter with irradiances in the 10(7) W/cm2 region. A linear time-of-flight mass spectrometer has been used for mass spectrometric measurements, where positive and negative secondary ions of large proteins have been studied. The effect of different experimental parameters on the protein ion-signal intensities are discussed. PMID- 2520245 TI - Fast-atom bombardment mass spectrometry of conjugated benzo(a)pyrene metabolites. AB - Fast-atom bombardment mass spectrometry has been used to obtain spectra of conjugated benzo(a)pyrene (bap) metabolites using a 1:1, glycerol + thioglycerol matrix, bap Glucuronides give positive- and negative-ion spectra with peaks due to [M + H]+ and [M - H]- ions and a major fragment peak (base peak) at [bap-OH]+ and [bap-O]-. bap Sulfates (sodium salts) give similar negative-ion spectra with [M - Na]- and [bap-O]- peaks, but the positive-ion spectra are dominated by sodium and glycerol adducts of the bap sulfates. PMID- 2520246 TI - Characterization of impurities in a synthetic renin substrate peptide by fast atom bombardment mass spectrometry and hybrid tandem mass spectrometry. AB - Fast-atom bombardment mass spectrometry of a synthetic renin substrate decapeptide (Pro-His-Pro-Phe-His-Leu-Val-Ile-His-D-Lys) indicated the presence of several side-products, including a component 12 Da higher in mass. Low-energy collisionally activated decomposition analyses were performed using a hybrid tandem instrument and demonstrated that the heavier side product had two components, in which the structural modification was either at the N- or the C terminus. Additional analyses of the N-acetyl derivative indicated that for each component the structural modification blocked a site of N-acetylation. It is suggested that the formation of these side products is attributable to the generation of formaldehyde, during removal of the histidine protecting group (benzyloxymethyl), which reacts with the N-terminus of the peptide to give an imidazolidinone structure or with the D-lysine epsilon-amine group to yield an imine. While the precise genesis of the side-products remains speculative, it is clear that the combined strategy of derivatization and tandem mass spectrometry has allowed structural conclusions concerning individual components of an isobaric mixture. PMID- 2520247 TI - Plasma-desorption mass spectrometry of intact enzymes and proenzymes. AB - The plasma desorption (PD) mass spectra of several enzymes and proenzymes are reported. Chymotrypsin and chymotrypsinogen both yield usable PD mass spectra; however, the single-chain chymotrypsinogen exhibits better sensitivity and less fragmentation than the multi-chain chymotrypsin. Porcine pepsinogen contains 11 more basic residues (lysine and arginine) than porcine pepsin, but this does not lead to an increase in positive ion response. In fact, the additional basic residues may hinder response by increasing the strength of the interaction between the protein and the nitrocellulose surface. A series of subtilisins showed comparable PD mass spectrometric, response despite the fact that they differ considerably in primary sequence. Finally, PD mass spectrometry was used to correct the previously reported mass of a heat-stable protease, a value that we found to be in error by almost 5000 Da. PMID- 2520248 TI - Choline: an essential dietary nutrient? AB - Choline (trimethyl-beta-hydroxyethylammonium) is a quaternary amine which is widely distributed in plants and animals. It contains three methyl groups which are important in a number of metabolic reactions, including the synthesis of methionine and carnitine. Choline is also a component of the phospholipids phosphatidylcholine and sphingomyelin, important constituents of all cell membranes. Finally, choline is necessary for the synthesis of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Although this compound is considered an essential nutrient in numerous mammalian species, this has not been established for humans. PMID- 2520249 TI - Skin lesions during intravenous hyperalimentation: zinc deficiency. 1976. PMID- 2520251 TI - Discovery of zinc deficiency in patients receiving total parenteral alimentation, clinical correlations. PMID- 2520250 TI - Zinc in parenteral nutrition. PMID- 2520252 TI - Percutaneous, tunneled silicone elastomer central venous catheters for total parenteral nutrition: low sepsis and thrombosis rate. A prospective study of 315 catheters. AB - Silastic catheters were inserted by the percutaneous route, and tunneled subcutaneously, in 315 patients who needed venous access for total parenteral nutrition. The catheters were managed with a daily program that included heat sterilization of the metal hub with an electrical soldering iron. This study aimed to evaluate prospectively the incidence of catheter-related sepsis and thrombosis. There was one case of pneumothorax. All catheters were x-rayed post insertion: eight catheters were malpositioned initially. The median catheter duration was 18 days with a range of 2-138 days. The total duration was 240 catheter-months. Twenty-seven catheters were removed due to mechanical problems. Nine were removed because of suspected sepsis; six patients had negative blood and catheter cultures, while three grew pathogens. The sepsis rate was thus 0.95%. There were no clinical signs of thrombosis. Pull-out venography was performed in 93 patients. Fibrin sleeves were seen in the majority of cases. Two patients had wall-adherent, non-occlusive thrombus masses (2%); they both had proximal catheter positions. We conclude that there is a low risk of catheter related sepsis and thrombosis with this technique. PMID- 2520253 TI - Use of total parenteral nutrition in pediatric bone marrow transplantation. AB - To evaluate the extent of the nutritional stress of pediatric bone marrow transplantation (BMT) and to evaluate the use of total parenteral nutrition (TPN), 35 consecutive pediatric patients who received BMT were studied retrospectively. Voluntary cessation of oral nutrition in almost all patients was observed, and significant decreases of serum albumin levels were seen after BMT. In 85% of these patients, TPN was necessary in response to severe wasting and fasting. No deaths were related to indwelling central venous catheters during the period of 2968 catheter-use days in these severely myelosuppressed patients. The mean of the total daily energy intake was 104% of basal energy expenditure (BEE), and 70% of patients lost their weight. Predicted energy requirement to maintain body weight after BMT would be 128% of BEE from a simple linear regression step in this study. Significant correlations were found between the marrow recovery time and the initial nutritional state, expressed as the percentage of ideal weight height ratio, as well as benign nature of the disease. The use of TPN did not show any beneficial effects on the time course of marrow recovery, although it showed favorable effects on the maintenance of body weight. PMID- 2520254 TI - Nutrition education for medical students: evaluation of the relative contribution of freshman courses in biochemistry and nutrition to performance on a standardized examination in nutrition. AB - An examination previously developed and used for assessment of nutrition knowledge of medical students in the Southeastern Regional Medical-Nutrition Education Network was used to compare the effectiveness of a basic medical biochemistry course and a 58-hour required nutrition course. The examination was administered to a cohort of freshman students upon entry to medical school, after biochemistry, and then after nutrition. Two other student groups took the examination at the end of the sophomore and senior years, respectively. In the freshman cohort, mean nutrition knowledge scores increased slightly after biochemistry, (52% to 56%), which contained 37 nutrition-related lectures. The mean score of the cohort was 75% after the nutrition course. The sophomores scored 75% and the seniors 73%. These findings suggest 1) basic science courses such as biochemistry cannot be relied upon to add significantly to nutrition knowledge, and 2) a required freshman course can be an effective way to introduce basic and clinical nutrition with good retention of knowledge in subsequent years. PMID- 2520255 TI - Refinement of central venous cannulation technique. AB - A further refinement of the improved Seldinger technique of central venous cannulation is described. The method entails inserting the guidewire through a previously created side hole in a standard 5ml plastic syringe. The problems of needle dislodgement, air embolism and blood loss are virtually eliminated with this technique. PMID- 2520256 TI - Task Force on Nutrition Support in AIDS. Guidelines for nutrition support in AIDS. AB - The nutritional status of people with AIDS is challenged throughout the progression of the illness by the manifestation of symptoms such as malabsorption, diarrhea, candidiasis, and fever. As yet, there is no widely accepted method for nutritional management of AIDS. Therefore, a Task Force on Nutrition Support in AIDS was formed to develop practical recommendations for those involved in the management of this patient population. The "Guidelines for Nutrition Support in AIDS" are aimed at improving nutritional status, alleviating symptoms, and enhancing quality of life at each stage of the disease. The Task Force concluded that optimizing the nutritional status of people with AIDs, through aggressive nutritional therapy, is essential in overall medical management; nutrition intervention and education is indicated as early in the disease progression as HIV diagnosis; thorough nutritional assessment and regular monitoring is advocated; and enteral feedings should be considered the first line of nutrition support therapy. PMID- 2520257 TI - Pathophysiology of obesity-associated type II diabetes (NIDDM): implications from longitudinal studies of non-human primates. AB - Clinical observations of humans who have developed adult-onset Type II, non insulin dependent diabetes have generally supported the idea that there is a large degree of heterogeneity in this disease. Studies of monozygotic twins, however, show such a high degree of concordance as to make doubtful the idea of multiple causes and multiple disease in most instances. Such studies suggest the importance of seeking a unified hypothesis for the basis of Type II diabetes. Prospective longitudinal studies of rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) now provide that integrated picture, and suggest heterogeneity in rate of progression and timing of expression of the disease, with little or no heterogeneity in its pattern of development or in the sequence of events leading to overt diabetes. PMID- 2520258 TI - Obesity is an obligatory component for development of type II diabetes in predisposed monkeys: a testable hypothesis. AB - Monkeys have been extensively studied with respect to the development of obesity and diabetes. Segregation of the two disorders on a genetic basis has not been possible. PMID- 2520259 TI - Cardiovascular disease in genotypes for obesity and diabetes. AB - Cardiovascular diseases represent a major cause of morbidity and mortality in both obese and diabetic patients. The mechanisms by which diabetes or obesity cause the cardiac lesions is poorly understood. A number of risk factors associated with the development of atherosclerotic vascular disease, a precursor of heart disease, are found in diabetes and obesity. There is evidence that diabetes or obesity may even cause a primary cardiomyopathy. The use of animal models with obesity or diabetes with various combinations of risk factors may clarify what each component contributes to the expression of cardiovascular disease. This report summarizes some of the current information on the cardiovascular complications found in various animal models of obesity and diabetes. PMID- 2520261 TI - Is choline essential. PMID- 2520260 TI - The role of obesity, hypertension and diet in diabetes and its complications in the Spontaneous Hypertensive/NIH-corpulent rat. AB - The Spontaneous Hypertensive/NIH-corpulent rat is a recently developed genetic model of obesity and diabetes. The strain exhibits both metabolic and histopathological characteristics associated with non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus in humans. This rodent model is unique in that glucose intolerance is expressed in both sexes and in both phenotypes. PMID- 2520262 TI - Ephedrine, caffeine and aspirin: "over-the-counter" drugs that interact to stimulate thermogenesis in the obese. PMID- 2520263 TI - Treatment of obesity with thermogenic agents. PMID- 2520264 TI - Central venous catheter complications and intravenous nutrition. PMID- 2520265 TI - Feed the patient with AIDS! PMID- 2520266 TI - Amino acid patterns of infants of very low birth weight. I. Characterization and clinical significance of change over time. AB - Plasma amino acid levels were determined in 40 premature, very low birth weight infants. All blood samples were drawn prior to parenteral nutrition and blood transfusions. Levels were taken from 0 to 90 hours after birth at approximately 12-hour intervals. Dextrose 5% or 10% in water was given intravenously, beginning shortly after birth, as the only caloric source. A total of 69 plasma amino acid determinations were used for statistical analysis of 25 amino acids versus time. Plasma amino acid profiles were separated into several time intervals. An analysis of covariance of the means of these intervals demonstrated a statistical difference (p less than or equal to 0.01 or better) for taurine, lysine, alanine, threonine, valine, tryptophan, cystine and free cysteine/cystine. Thus, plasma amino acid levels should be reviewed in relation to the hours after birth of sampling. By 12 hours after birth, a relatively stable pattern was observed for all amino acids except taurine. Taurine levels continued to decline throughout the observation period. No statistically significant correlations were observed between the plasma amino acid levels and gestational age. PMID- 2520267 TI - Nutrients, essential fatty acids and prostaglandins interact to augment immune responses and prevent genetic damage and cancer. AB - Micronutrients, vitamins A, C, and E, beta-carotene, and selenium can decrease the incidence of cancer, possibly due to their antioxidant action(s). These nutrients prevent lipid peroxidation, especially that of gamma-linolenic, dihomo gamma-linolenic and arachidonic acids, the precursors of prostaglandins. Gammma linolenic acid (GLA), dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA), prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) and prostacyclin can prevent genetic damage in vitro and in vivo. They augment immune responses and tumoricidal actions of macrophages. Prostacyclin also has anti-metastatic properties. Zinc, magnesium, calcium and pyridoxine are cofactors in the formation of GLA, DGLA, PGE1 and PGI2. Hence, in situations where there is a reduced intake of trace elements and vitamins, there may be a decrease in the synthesis of GLA, DGLA, PGE1 and PGI2, leading to immune suppression and genetic damage that cannot be reversed or prevented. In the presence of adequate amounts of selenium, beta-carotene and Vitamin A and E, peroxidation of GLA/DGLA/AA would not occur, so that they are available for the synthesis of PGE1 and PGI2. This interaction between nutrients, essential fatty acids and prostaglandins can be exploited to develop new preventive and therapeutic strategies in cancer. PMID- 2520268 TI - Psychosocial issues in the diagnosis and management of cancer cachexia and anorexia. AB - Anorexia with its associated decreased food intake and weight loss is a common and profoundly important symptom in cancer, and one which has at times a psychological as well as physical component. When it is physical in origin it may be caused directly or indirectly by the disease process or treatment. Most poorly understood is the anorexia-cachexia syndrome of advanced disease. Psychological causes often reflect anxiety about cancer, its possible progression, depression, anticipatory phenomena, and learned food adversions. Pre-existing psychiatric disorders, especially anorexia nervosa or paranoid states, can substantially complicate cancer treatment. Learned food aversions, which can further restrict limited intake, have been demonstrated in children receiving chemotherapy and may also contribute to aversions of specific foods seen among adult patients after chemotherapy or radiation. Regardless of etiology, psychological management of the anorexia is often helpful. Optimal management often involves use of a combination of modalities: psychotherapeutic, behavioral and/or pharmacologic supplemented by education, counseling and support. Behavioral techniques such as relaxation exercises are useful tools to alter this response as well as to relieve the anxiety precipitated by the patient's concerns about anorexia and weight loss. Environmental interventions and nutritional advice can also be of considerable value in reversing the negative effects of this distressing symptom in cancer. PMID- 2520269 TI - Learned food aversions as a factor in the nutritional management of cancer patients. PMID- 2520270 TI - Chemotherapy side effects and cancer patient nutrition. PMID- 2520271 TI - Neurological foundations of learned appetitive aversions. PMID- 2520272 TI - Cachexia: a basic biochemical mechanism. PMID- 2520273 TI - Tolerance to tumor necrosis factor. PMID- 2520274 TI - Metabolic pathology of cancer malnutrition. PMID- 2520275 TI - Hypermetabolism after CNS trauma: arresting the "injury cascade". PMID- 2520276 TI - Another step toward peritoneal nutrition. PMID- 2520277 TI - Interpretation of the plasma amino acid pattern of low birth weight infants. PMID- 2520279 TI - An experimental investigation on rickets. 1919. PMID- 2520278 TI - Nutrition and severe brain injury. AB - Patients with severe brain injuries have increased energy expenditures and urinary nitrogen excretion. Hypozincemia, hypoferremia, increased levels of acute phase proteins, depressed levels of negative acute phase proteins, and weight loss are common in these patients. The specific mediators of these responses are not known. Nutritional support may beneficially affect outcome in these patients, but enteral feedings are often not tolerated in the acute phase of injury. Animal investigations suggest that total parenteral nutrition and hyperglycemia may increase neuronal injury and worsen outcome. We review the current literature on nutritional support of brain-injured patients and examine the premises on which nutrition supplementation are based. More work is needed to define the metabolic responses and nutritional requirements of patients who sustain central nervous system injury. PMID- 2520280 TI - Long-term peritoneal nutrition in dogs: metabolic and histopathologic results. AB - In order to test the use of the peritoneal cavity in prolonged nutrition, seven dogs were fed for 22 days via peritoneal catheter. The nutritive preparations were composed of 10% crystalline amino acids, 20% fat emulsion, 40% glucose, trace elements, Na+, K+, insulin and a multivitamin compound. The caloric rate was 45kcal/kg/24h plus 0.5g/kg/24h of amino acids. These animals were compared to another group of six dogs, which were catheterized and infused with a 3% saline solution in addition to an oral intake of 45kcal/kg/24h. Both groups had free use of water. There was a case of slight peritonitis in one dog on peritoneal nutrition but no deaths and no weight changes occurred throughout the experiment. Increases in serum levels of TG, FFA and cholesterol were observed in the animals treated with peritoneal nutrition as well as a decrease in albumin serum levels. Peritoneal hyperplasia and phagocytosis were noted in the animals on peritoneal nutrition but no damage was recorded in other organs. PMID- 2520281 TI - Complications and outcome of pregnancy in obese women. AB - To examine the influence of obesity on obstetric performance, pregnancy outcome, and lactational performance, 163 mostly moderately obese gravidas were compared with age and parity-matched normal weight subjects. Significantly increased incidences of gestational hypertension, inadequate pregnancy weight gain, cesarean section, postpartum infections, and large-for-gestational age infants were observed in the study group. No significant increase in the incidence of diabetes, toxemia, breech presentation, postpartum hemorrhage, infant morbidity or lactational failure was noted in obese women. The mean birth weight of the infants of obese women was 163g greater than that of the control subjects; no difference was observed in infant length or gestational age. These results, while confirming that obesity is an important risk factor, suggest that methodological aspects of the previous studies may have contributed to magnify the severity of the problem. PMID- 2520282 TI - Weight reduction for breast cancer prevention by restriction of dietary fat and calories: rationale, mechanisms and interventions. AB - A large body of epidemiologic evidence and data drawn from animal feeding studies have led to the feasibility testing of clinical breast cancer prevention trials based on the restriction of dietary fat intake. The animal data strongly suggest that restricting calories as well as fat inhibits breast cancer promotion. Body fat correlates with dietary fat intake in human populations. Obese postmenopausal women have increased levels of circulating bioavailable estrogen capable of promoting breast cancer growth. We propose that restriction of dietary fat intake will decrease total calorie intake and result in a loss of body fat in postmenopausal women. This loss of fat will decrease estrogen production from adrenal androgens and increase bioavailable estrogen, leading to decreased promotion of estrogen-dependent breast tumors. Intervention programs targeted at weight reduction via restriction of calories, reduction of dietary fat and increased physical activity are logical, practical and measurable strategies for reducing the risk of breast cancer in women at moderate to increased risk. Failure to account for variations in adherence to a restricted-fat diet in past feasibility studies has cast doubt on the hypothesis that restricting dietary fat intake can be utilized to reduce the risk of breast cancer. Current studies examining nutritional, hormonal and physiologic data in conjunction with evidence of adherence to dietary and lifestyle change will likely clarify the hormonal and physiologic effects of this potential nutritional strategy for breast cancer prevention. PMID- 2520283 TI - The effect of retarded growth upon the length of life span and upon the ultimate body size. 1935. PMID- 2520284 TI - Effect of a nucleoside-nucleotide mixture on protein metabolism in rats after seventy percent hepatectomy. AB - The effect of a nucleoside-based mixture (OG-VI) on protein synthesis in partially hepatectomized rats was evaluated. Twenty male Wistar rats weighing about 200 g underwent 70% hepatectomy by Higgins and Anderson's method, and then were subjected to total parenteral nutrition (TPN) for 3 days: the control group received only standard TPN (S-TPN group) and the experiment group received standard TPN supplemented with a nucleoside-nucleotide mixture (13% W/V, OG-VI) (OG-TPN group). The rates of whole body protein turnover and protein synthesis and breakdown were determined for 3 days after hepatectomy by the method of Picou and Taylor-Roberts with [15N] glycine. The nitrogen balances on days 1 and 3 and the cumulative nitrogen balance were significantly higher in the OG-TPN group than in the control group. Moreover, the rates of protein turnover and protein synthesis were significantly higher in the OG-TPN group than in the control group. Thus, increase in protein synthesis, rather than change in protein breakdown, was concluded to be responsible for the better nitrogen balance of the OG-TPN group. These findings suggest that the nucleoside-nucleotide mixture was used for the syntheses of RNA and DNA through the salvage pathway in regenerating liver and that this resulted in enhanced protein turnover with simultaneous increase in protein synthesis. PMID- 2520286 TI - Putting the wrong fuel in the tank. AB - Three recent observations when considered together indicate means whereby the health of Western countries could be improved and certain diseases still rare in developing countries avoided. The first is the recognition that many of the commonest chronic disorders in more economically developed countries are characteristic of modern Western lifestyles; the second is that these disorders can be considered to be manifestations of maladaptation to a new environment; and the third is the knowledge now available of the types of environment to which man has, through evolution, adapted. PMID- 2520285 TI - Fate of enterally administered ornithine in healthy animals: interactions with alpha-ketoglutarate. AB - In order to improve our understanding of the metabolic interactions between alpha ketoglutarate (alpha KG) and ornithine (Orn), which constitute the two parts of ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate (OKG) used as an adjuvant in enteral nutrition, we have investigated the plasma appearance and tissue distribution (qualitative and quantitative) of enterally administered 14C-Orn and 14C-alpha KG in healthy mice and rats. The influence of unlabelled alpha KG or Orn on 14C-Orn or 14C-alpha KG metabolism, respectively, was also studied. Unlabelled alpha KG was able to reduce strongly the rate of intestinal absorption of 14C-Orn, whereas the inverse was not true. This alpha KG-induced loss in plasma radioactivity after a load of Orn was associated with a decrease of radioactivity in tissue with no modification of the qualitative distribution in organs. In this study, a direct interaction between alpha KG and Orn was demonstrated at the intestinal level. The mechanisms involved in this phenomenon probably involve the regulation of metabolic conversions among alpha KG, Glu, pyrroline-5-carboxylate, and Orn. This is of importance in the therapeutic use of ornithine salts in clinical nutrition. PMID- 2520287 TI - AIDS and the health care worker providing nutritional services. PMID- 2520289 TI - An exploratory approach to the patient's struggle with cancer. PMID- 2520288 TI - The spectrum of dietary and nutritional approaches to cancer. PMID- 2520290 TI - Cancer cachexia: specific problems of providing home parenteral nutrition. PMID- 2520291 TI - The potential of megestrol acetate in the treatment of cancer cachexia. PMID- 2520292 TI - Diet and disease today: are there lessons to be learned from primitive man? PMID- 2520293 TI - Thermogenesis: the biochemical problem for increasing its rate in relation to loss of body weight. PMID- 2520294 TI - A comparison of human milk and commercially available cow milk based formulas. PMID- 2520295 TI - Is breast-milk epidermal growth factor biologically active in the suckling? AB - Milk-borne epidermal growth factor (EGF) survives in the gastrointestinal tract and is delivered in active form to peripheral organs. The dose dependence of EGF effects in sucklings needs to be clarified, as do possible interactions with other biologically active peptides in milk. PMID- 2520296 TI - De medicina statica: 1704. PMID- 2520298 TI - Concentration of fluoride and selected other elements in teas. AB - Infusions made from 15 Chinese, 11 Ceylon/Indian and 6 herb teas (1 g/100 ml deionized water at 85 degrees C) were analyzed for F, P, Ca, Al, Mg, Mn and Zn. Chinese teas continued to release F throughout the first hour of infusion, whereas release of F from Ceylon/Indian teas was essentially completed after 5 minutes. After a 15-minute infusion, the mean F concentration in Chinese teas was 1.73 ppm, and in Ceylon/Indian teas it was 1.24 ppm. Herb teas contained a negligible amount of F (0.02-0.05 ppm). Phosphorus and Mg were the most abundant of the other elements with an average of 12.5 and 9.1 ppm, respectively. A high correlation (r = 0.81) was found between the released F and Al. The total F content in tea leaves ranged from 82 to 371 ppm. The addition of milk to tea infusions did not appreciably reduce the F concentration. The estimated daily F intake from tea infusion made with fluoridated water at 0.7 ppm is 1.05 mg. PMID- 2520297 TI - Plasma pyridoxal phosphate as indicator of vitamin B6 status in morbidly obese women after gastric restriction surgery. AB - Plasma pyridoxal phosphate (PLP) concentrations were determined in 15 morbidly obese women before and after gastric restriction surgery for weight reduction. The subjects received a daily vitamin-mineral supplement containing 2 or 3 mg of vitamin B6 for 9 days before the operation and either a placebo or a multivitamin supplement containing 0.4, 0.8 or 2 mg of vitamin B6 for 3 months postoperatively. During the fourth month, all subjects received 2 mg of supplemental vitamin B6 per day. Dietary intakes of the vitamin were calculated from 3-day intake records kept by the subjects. Blood samples for PLP determination were obtained preoperatively and twice between weeks 4 and 8 and at 3 and 4 months postoperatively. The mean concentration of plasma PLP increased significantly from preoperation to 4 to 5 weeks postoperation and returned to the preoperative level by 6 to 8 weeks, with no further changes during the rest of the experimental period. There was no correlation between plasma PLP and either total or supplemental intakes of vitamin B6 at any of the time periods studied. Significant positive correlations were found between the preoperative and the first two postoperative plasma PLP levels (r = 0.93 and 0.67, p less than 0.001 and 0.005, respectively) and between the rate of weight loss and plasma PLP at 4 5 weeks and at 4 months postoperatively. Muscle PLP reserve may be mobilized during the early postoperative period and complicate the use of plasma PLP as a measure of vitamin B6 status. PMID- 2520299 TI - Central venous catheter replacement with the aid of wire introducer in patients receiving total parenteral nutrition: short report. AB - During a 1-year period, 24 of 71 patients receiving total parenteral nutrition, underwent replacement of their central venous catheter (CVC) for presumed CVC sepsis or catheter malposition with the use of a wire inducer, according to the Seldinger technique. Catheters were defined as sterile when cultures of both the catheter tip and the peripheral blood were negative, contaminated when culture of the tip was positive whereas the peripheral blood culture(s) was either sterile or positive with different bacteria than those obtained from the tip culture, and septic when cultures from the catheter tip and peripheral blood grew identical microorganisms. Among 19 catheters with suspected sepsis, six were sterile, ten contaminated and three septic. Guidewire catheter replacement was easily and safely performed, and succeeded in sterilizing all contaminated catheters but only one of three septic catheters. PMID- 2520300 TI - Health, nutrition and school performance: what are the connections? First international meeting of UNESCO Project to Improve Primary School Performance through Nutrition and Health Interventions. PMID- 2520301 TI - Effects of fish oils on lipid metabolism. PMID- 2520302 TI - Absorption of omega-3 fatty acids. PMID- 2520303 TI - Changes in essential fatty acid composition during pregnancy: maternal liver, placenta and fetus. PMID- 2520304 TI - Essential fatty acid metabolism in infants. PMID- 2520305 TI - Tumor cytotoxicity of essential fatty acids. PMID- 2520306 TI - Essential fatty acids and hypertension: potential for use in primary and secondary intervention strategies. PMID- 2520308 TI - Application of NMR spectroscopy to the study of lipid metabolism and composition. PMID- 2520307 TI - Essential fatty acid metabolism in diabetes. PMID- 2520309 TI - Metabolism of omega-3 fatty acids in platelets. PMID- 2520310 TI - Polyunsaturated fatty acids: oxidation versus esterification in hepatocytes. PMID- 2520312 TI - Dietary protein and lipoprotein metabolism. PMID- 2520311 TI - Influence of dietary fat on brain membrane phospholipid fatty acid composition and neuronal function in mature rats. PMID- 2520313 TI - Heath Clarke Lecture: Immune responses in undernutrition and overnutrition: basic considerations and applied significance. PMID- 2520314 TI - A formula to estimate the approximate surface area if height and weight be known. 1916. PMID- 2520315 TI - Peritoneal nutrition in dogs after intestinal resection: comparative study. AB - A total of 18 adult dogs were kept on peritoneal nutrition (PeN) for 30 days via peritoneal catheter. Eleven dogs were put on peritoneal nutrition immediately, receiving a caloric rate of 45 kcal/kg per day, half of which was supplied by glucose and the other half by 20% intralipid, along with 0.5 g/kg per day of protein, as well as ions, trace elements, and vitamins. Two-thirds of the glucose was administered separately. Seven other animals underwent an 80% resection of the small intestine and were kept on special oral nutrition for 6 weeks. After this time, peritoneal nutrition was applied with the same caloric rate as in the previous group but with a protein dose of 1 g/kg per day and administration of the nutrients every 6 hours. We found two cases of peritonitis in the group without intestinal resection, whereas no infectious outbreaks occurred in the group subjected to intestinal resection. This group showed an exacerbated nutritional state, with a consequently greater loss of weight and albumin and a negative nitrogen balance. The peritoneal membrane showed signs of cellular hyperplasia and hypertrophy following peritoneal nutrition. These phenomena disappeared 1 month after PeN was terminated. PMID- 2520317 TI - Effect of energy restriction on riboflavin retention in normal and deficient tissues of the rat. AB - We investigated the effects of energy restriction on tissue riboflavin depletion and subsequent repletion of deficient tissues. Groups of male Sprague Dawley rats with average body weights between 268 and 275g were placed on energy-restricted diets consisting of 8g (31kcal or 130kJ) per day of a basal diet adequate in all other nutrients and either 12mg of riboflavin/kg or no added riboflavin. The ad libitum controls received additional energy as a mixture of sucrose, starch, and corn oil (10:3:1 by wt). No significant difference in the degree of riboflavin deficiency was detected between energy-restricted and ad libitum-fed rats as assessed by riboflavin concentrations in the liver and gastrocnemius and soleus muscles and by the erythrocyte glutathione reductase activity coefficient (EGRAC). Additional energy-restricted riboflavin-deficient rats were subsequently repleted by feeding either the supplemented basal diet with no additional energy or with ad libitum energy. Repletion of liver riboflavin concentration and reduction of the EGRAC values to control levels occurred regardless of energy intake. Muscle riboflavin concentrations were normal in the ad libitum-fed group but decreased in the energy-restricted rats despite 4 weeks of supplementation. The latter group had muscle riboflavin levels similar to those in the rats fed the riboflavin-deficient diet for 8 weeks. The results suggest that energy restriction impairs flavo-protein synthesis in muscle but not in the liver. PMID- 2520316 TI - Hepatic steatosis and serum very low density lipoproteins during two types of protein malnutrition followed by balanced refeeding. AB - The relation of serum very low density lipoproteins (VLDL) to hepatic steatosis was studied during protein malnutrition followed by refeeding of a balanced diet in growing rats. A control group was fed a balanced diet containing 15% casein for 42 days. Two depleted groups were fed low protein diets containing 2% casein (group C) or 5% gluten (group GI) (protein malnutrition phase) for 28 days and then were fed the balanced diet for 14 days (refeeding phase). The concentrations of phospholipids and proteins in both liver and serum VLDL were decreased during protein malnutrition, whereas triacylglycerols, unesterified cholesterol, and cholesteryl esters were higher in the liver and lower in the serum VLDL in the C and GI groups compared with the control group. There was a significant inverse relation between serum VLDL apolipoproteins and liver triacylglycerols on the one hand and between serum VLDL triacylglycerols and liver triacylglycerols on the other hand, in both depleted groups, although this relation was less important in the GI group. The major fatty acid levels of liver triacylglycerols were negatively correlated with those of serum VLDL during protein malnutrition. Our results show that in spite of a similar fatty acid intake, protein malnutrition involved an important decrease in essential fatty acids in VLDL triacylglycerols and phospholipids. Moreover, triacylglycerol accumulation was accompanied by increases in unesterfied cholesterol and cholesteryl esters in the liver of rats fed low protein diets, especially with 5% gluten. Hence, the hepatic steatosis was not entirely attributable to impaired transport of triacylglycerols by VLDL. PMID- 2520318 TI - Background and development of the All in One concept. PMID- 2520319 TI - Clinical applications and cost-effectiveness of All in One. PMID- 2520320 TI - Home TPN. PMID- 2520321 TI - Use of peripheral veins for TPN. PMID- 2520322 TI - Chemical interactions in All in One admixtures with special references to vitamins. PMID- 2520323 TI - Physical stability of All in One admixtures: factors affecting fat droplets. PMID- 2520325 TI - Kabi Nutrition research commitment to All in One. PMID- 2520324 TI - Liposome entrapment in All in One admixtures. PMID- 2520326 TI - Good manufacturing in All in One compounding. PMID- 2520327 TI - Computer assistance in pharmacy compounding. PMID- 2520328 TI - Impact of plastic material on admixture integrity. PMID- 2520329 TI - Large-scale All in One compounding. PMID- 2520330 TI - The future of All in One systems. PMID- 2520331 TI - Etiology of breast cancer: dietary fat and weight. PMID- 2520332 TI - Riboflavin and the energy supply. PMID- 2520333 TI - Ascorbic acid in cholesterol metabolism and in detoxification of xenobiotic substances: problem of optimum vitamin C intake. AB - There are extreme contradictions in the question of an optimum intake of vitamin C. The Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) in the USA, Great Britain, and many other countries range from 30 to 60mg for an adult man or woman, whereas the proponents of megadoses recommend as much as 18,000mg per day. Critical opinions against both the official RDA and the hypothesis of megadoses are summarized. Ideal RDA should be based on studies with increasing vitamin C doses in which the efficiency of the ascorbate-dependent systems would be correlated with the vitamin C concentration in the target tissues. On the basis of correlations of the hepatic vitamin C levels in guinea pigs with the rate of cholesterol degradation and the activity of microsomal detoxification systems, it is suggested that such intake of ascorbic acid is optimum that ensures a maximum body pool and maximum steady-state levels of vitamin C in the tissues. It is probable that in healthy adults, such a dose ranges from 100 to 200mg and that in stress conditions, it exceeds 200mg per day. PMID- 2520334 TI - The action of insulin. 1947. PMID- 2520336 TI - Effect of low-quality dietary protein on the thymus of growing rats. AB - The status of the thymus of growing rats fed for 45 days after weaning on a low quality dietary protein (7.5% maize) was compared with that in an age-matched control group receiving a diet containing casein at the same concentration. At the end of the feeding period, body weight (bw) was determined and the thymus was removed; its weight and cell number and the mature T-cell population- characterized by the monoclonal antibody W3/13 using the indirect immunofluorescence technique--were determined. Thymus weight expressed as mg/bw0.75 (3.9 +/- 0.75 vs 7.7 +/- 2.0), cell number (4.4 +/- 2.2 vs 26.3 +/- 7.6), and the absolute number of W3/13+ T cells (1.59 +/- 0.75 vs 17.8 +/- 5.4) were significantly lower (p less than 0.0005) in the experimental group than in the control group. The results suggest severe atrophy of the thymus of weaning animals chronically fed a low-quality protein. PMID- 2520335 TI - In vivo utilization of intravenously supplied L-alanyl-L-glutamine in various tissues of the rat. AB - Isotope studies were performed to investigate the metabolism of the highly soluble and stable synthetic dipeptide L-alanyl-L-glutamine in rats. After intravenous injection of L-alanyl-L-[U-14C]glutamine, the extent of radioactive labeling of nonprotein and protein fractions of plasma, liver, muscle, and kidney as well as of expired CO2 was determined using liquid scintillation counting. Within 40min, the production of 14CO2 reached maximum values. In all tissues investigated, the rapid decline of label in the nonprotein fractions was accompanied by an increase of radioactivity in the protein fractions. Only traces of radioactivity (less than 1%) were detectable in urine. The amount of label recovered (in percent of injected dose) 3h after peptide bolus administration was 56% in CO2, 13% in muscle, 3.1% in liver, 1.9% in plasma, and 0.6% in kidney. Intravenously supplied L-alanyl-L-glutamine is rapidly and efficiently hydrolyzed with subsequent utilization of the liberated glutamine for energy production and the synthesis of proteins. This dipeptide may be useful as a source of the critical but unstable glutamine in parenteral nutrition solutions. PMID- 2520337 TI - An experimental study of the impact of cancer on nitrogen metabolism and wound healing. AB - In Wistar rats bearing a Walker-256 carcinoma flank tumor, a standard skin wound was inflicted on the backs of the animals. Nitrogen intake and nitrogen balance measures were obtained. The standard wound did not promote tumor growth. Wound contraction in tumor-bearing animals was not different from that in tumor-free animals. Tumor-bearing rats had anorexia, lower nitrogen intake and a tendency to lower their nitrogen balance. These findings suggest that both cancer and wound healing are privileged metabolic events, having as a consequence sacrifice of the host. PMID- 2520338 TI - Successful nutrition management of megacystis-microcolon-intestinal hypoperistalsis syndrome--a case report. AB - Megacystis-microcolon-intestinal hypoperistalsis syndrome (MMIHS), a visceral myopathy causing intestinal obstruction in the newborn, is a generally fatal condition, with death being secondary either to sepsis or to malnutrition if long term intravenous feeding is not provided. A patient with MMIHS is described who has been raised by total parenteral nutrition (TPN) for seven years since her birth. Severe hepatic dysfunction was encountered in early infancy, which gradually cleared after the initiation of milk feeding by mouth, although the milk could not be absorbed because of the high-output jejunostomy. The patient also experienced a bone disease similar to scurvy but caused by copper deficiency at the age of 9 months. The central venous catheter now in situ is the 25th one for the patient. When these catheters were evaluated, the Broviac proved more efficacious than the traditional Silastic for use in long-term TPN. The patient does not yet have normal bowel function and still requires TPN. PMID- 2520339 TI - Vitamin C: turning over a new leaf. PMID- 2520340 TI - Thymus, immunity and nutrition. PMID- 2520341 TI - The cycle of poverty and malnutrition. Effects on school performance. PMID- 2520342 TI - Teachers not doctors. PMID- 2520343 TI - Effects of inhaled budesonide on the relationships between symptoms, lung function indices and airway hyperresponsiveness in patients with allergic asthma. AB - Fourteen patients with allergic asthma and exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) completed this study. Effects of a 6-week treatment with inhaled budesonide, daily dose 4 x 0.1 mg, were compared to the effects of treatment with placebo on patient symptom score, clinical assessment score, additional beta 2 agonist use, lung function indices, PC20 histamine and degree of EIB. Furthermore, relationships between these parameters during treatment with placebo and budesonide were analysed. Treatment with budesonide significantly improved symptom scores, FEV1 and morning peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR). A clear decrease in additional beta 2-agonist use was observed. PC20 histamine increased significantly, whereas EIB decreased significantly. Patient symptom scores and clinical assessment scores showed a significant correlation before and after treatment. No relationship was observed between these scores and other parameters, except for nocturnal dyspnoea/wheeze correlating significantly with beta 2-agonist use before treatment with budesonide. There was a significant correlation between beta 2-agonist use before treatment with budesonide and FEV1, morning PEFR, diurnal variation in PEFR, PC20 histamine and EIB. During treatment with budesonide only a significant correlation of beta 2-agonist use with PC20 histamine remained. FEV1 before treatment correlated with PEFR, diurnal variation in PEFR and EIB significantly. During treatment with budesonide the relationship of FEV1 with EIB was no longer observed. Diurnal variation in PEFR correlated with EIB significantly only before treatment. It is concluded that symptom scores are of little value in contrast to the measurement of beta 2-agonist use, lung function indices and airway hyperresponsiveness in the assessment of asthma patients.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2520344 TI - Inhaled frusemide is highly effective in preventing ultrasonically nebulised water bronchoconstriction. AB - A decrease in the osmolarity of the periciliary fluid of central airways is supposed to be the initiating mechanism by which ultrasonically nebulised distilled water (UNH2O) induces bronchoconstriction in asthmatics. It is therefore possible that substances, such as frusemide (F), which, in vitro, interfere with ions and water translocation across the tracheo-bronchial epithelium, can also modify such response. To test this hypothesis, 16 adult asthmatics were challenged with UNH2O after being pretreated with either inhaled F (approximately 28 mg delivered into the mouth) or placebo (the diluent) administered in random order and double-blind by means of a jet nebuliser. F did not modify baseline FEV1 and sRaw but attenuated markedly their changes after UNH2O. Mean max % (95% CI) sRaw increases after placebo and F were 293% (168-419) and 63% (21-104), respectively; mean max % falls in FEV1 were 26% (20-32) and 6% (-1-12). Thus inhaled F is highly effective in preventing UNH2O-induced bronchoconstriction and this unexpected property could have therapeutic implications. PMID- 2520345 TI - [Laser therapy in temporomandibular dysfunction (soft laser application points)]. AB - It is work out and discuss one of the principal problems in the laser therapy use during the TMJ dysfunction treatment: the determination of the application points for the soft-laser stay, detailing the position of some of them that are essentials to obtain the objectives of this type of treatment. PMID- 2520346 TI - [Gardner syndrome]. AB - Three patients, sisters of B, 12 and 14 years of age with a diagnosis of Gardner's Syndrome are reported. The family history indicated that their mother died of a carcinoma of the intestine at the age of 30. This Syndrome, which is of dominant autosomic inheritance, can be seen in aur city, with so heterogeneous hereditary features. Dentists must know the oral cavity characteristics of this disease (odontomas, cementomas, cysts, supernumerary teeth) that accompany gastric, intestinal, skeletal and tissular disturbances an of other organs (polyps, osteomas, cysts, adenomas), being intestinal poliposis of the colon the most important feature that becomes an "Adenocarcinoma", in the third ald fourth decade in a 100% of the cases. Its incidence in our city is real. The proper diagnosis is made when the clinical study is completed and the dentist may be the first one to watch this syndrome's feature in the oral cavity. A proper medical diagnosis would allow a preventive procedure and a patient's control until the "total surgery of the colon", which is the appropriate therapeutic procedure, is achieved; although there are controversies as regards the time to be carried out. PMID- 2520347 TI - [Experimental sialadenitis in castrated rats administered estrogens]. AB - Salivary glands are dependent on sexual hormones. The aim of the present work is to study the behavior of inflammatory response induced in animals that were castrated and injected with estrogens. Male adult wistar castrated rats (60-90 days) were used. A phlogogen pellet (zinc-oxide-turpentine essence) was placed between their sublingual and submaxillary glands and they were daily injected with 5 units of estrogen. The rats were killed after 8 and 12 days of treatment; submandibular pack was weighed, dissected and fixed in phormol Ph7 for its morphohistochemical study. Phlogogen pellet breaks out an acute inflammatory response that appears attenuated in castrated animals. Such character is enhanced when estrogens are used, disappearing ductal ectasis, becoming evident a granulation tissue of strange body in phagocytic activity and in contact with the pellet. As a consequence its follows that estrogen administration in castrated animals attenuates acute inflammatory response broken out by phlogogen pellet, determining characters with tendency to chronicity and giant cells differentiation of strange body. PMID- 2520348 TI - [Stress and the salivary glands]. AB - The object of this work was to establish whether induced stress leads to morphological changes in the sublingual and submaxillary glands of rats. General adaptation syndrome (S.G.A.) was induced in 25 young adult male Wistar rats through cold and immobilization. The animals were killed 48 hrs. and 10 days after stressor (E.A.) application. To verify stress condition, the adrenales were weighed and plasmatic corticosterone were carried out. The sublingual and submaxillary glands were dissected, fixed in buffered formol and stained with H.E. The results histology indicate that the submaxillary is more sensitive to cold than the sublingual, while the reverse holds true form immobilization. PMID- 2520349 TI - [Acid etching of prefabricated porcelain veneers]. AB - The aim of the present work is to study on standard porcelain teeth the acid concentration to produce the micromechanic retention with the cemented resin and then to enamel. Teeth were beater-up following the described technique, the application of two different types of etch solutions: hydrochloric acid and fluorhidric acid, in a lack of application time between 10 to 20 minutes. With the purpose of determine the type of etch solution that produce the best amount of micropores in standed porcelain laminates veneers we can conclude that: to the internal etched of the standard porcelain laminates veneer, the utilization of fluorhidric acid is the most convenient, also is necessary the previons stand blaster with aluminum oxide of 25 um to increase the retentive capacity over the etch surface. PMID- 2520350 TI - [Morphohistochemical development of mesenchyme in human fetal labial glands]. AB - The structural and histochemical patterns of the salivary mesenchyma were analysed in relation to the epithelium of the labial glands during the embryonic development to correlate the structural and histochemical characteristics in both tissues during the histogenesis. Samples of human fetal lips were analysed using H/E, PAS, Cason, Alcian blue, Toluidine blue and Methenamine/silver. The process of glandular histogenesis begun between 8 to 10 weeks. The mesenchyma surrounding the glandular buds had PAS positive granulations which were also alcianophilic, metachromatic and periodatoreactive. Periodatoreactive collagenous fibrillae, reticular cells and nervous fibers of considerable diameter were observed. Basement membranes were PAS positive, alcianophilic and discontinuous. At 12 weeks the mesenchyma differentiated as loose connective tissue which produced a delicate periglandular capsule with fibroblast and collagenous fibrillae. From 20 to 24 weeks the acini were structurally and histochemically differentiated as serous, mucous and mixed. It was postulated that the periglandular mesenchyma would play and important role in the morphogenetic process in relation to the histochemical identification of molecules which have a specific biological functions in the epithelium-mesenchyma interactions during organogenesis. PMID- 2520351 TI - [Embryological development of the chick tongue]. AB - Evolutionary, structural, ultrastructural and cytochemical studies (PAS, alcian blue, toluidine blue, Ruthenium red) were performed in chick tongues 7 to 19 days development, with the aim of observing the histomorphological changes during growth and differentiation. At 7 days the tongue was covered by a flat epithelium without cornification, with four cell lines. As an axis was observed a central hyaline-cartilaginous skeleton surrounded by mesenchyma. Since 11 days appeared glandular buds and canalized cell cords united trough complexes. At 15 days the epithelial thickness increased remarkably. The subepithelial connective tissue, already notably differentiated, formed papillae. Glandular acini contained PAS positive, alcianophilic, metachromatic and positive ruthenium red substance. Ultrastructurally, glands showed clear cells, with decreased electronic density and organoids randomly distributed and dark cells having electrodense cytoplasm and more organized organoids. At 19 days the epithelium was cornified in the tongue anterior half. A net increment of glycoconjugates was detected in glands. These observations show: 1) lingual glands secrete mucins since 15 days of embryonic development; 2) the cornified anterior epithelium is the result of a genetic pattern and not of a later functional adaptation to the type of feeding (grain eating birds). PMID- 2520352 TI - Muscle ultrastructure in a case of mixed connective tissue disease and Sjogren's syndrome. AB - A 29-year-old black woman with clinical and serological diagnoses of Sjorgren's Syndrome (SS) and mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) presented a very important muscular compromise with proximal, bilateral weakness and wasting, an abnormal electromyogram, and elevated muscle enzymes. Ultrastructural study of a muscle biopsy showed different degrees of atrophy and presence of subsarcolemmal loss of sarcomeric arrangement forming regions of contractil material with diverse electron densities. Capillaries were proliferative with distortion or occlusion of lumen and thickened basement membranes. An unusual capillary abnormality consisting of thick and convoluted basement membrane intermingled with portions of endothelium and macrophages is described. Mononuclear cell infiltration was formed by lymphocytes, plasma cells, macrophages and scarce mast cells. This work is the first study of the ultrastructural muscle pathology in a patient with diagnoses of MCTD and SS based on clinical findings and the presence of antibodies to RNP, SS-A and SS-B antigens. PMID- 2520353 TI - Tellurium resistance in nosocomial isolates of Serratia marcescens. PMID- 2520354 TI - A review on drugs and toxins affecting presynaptic K+ currents and phasic quantal transmitter release at motor nerve terminals. AB - This review assembles available information concerning drugs and toxins which block the different types of presynaptic K+ currents and discusses the relative importance of these currents in controlling phasic quantal transmitter release. Drugs and toxins which block the fast voltage-dependent potassium current (IKf), enhance phasic acetylcholine release evoked by nerve impulses. This effect is due to increased Ca2+ influx during prolonged presynaptic membrane depolarization. Selective blockade of the Ca(2+)-dependent K+ current (IK(Ca)) does not induce any change in phasic transmitter release indicating that, under physiological conditions, IK(Ca) has no significant role in presynaptic membrane repolarization. The contribution of the slow voltage-dependent K+ current (IKs) to the regulation of phasic acetylcholine release remains to be clarified. In conclusion, IKf, IK(Ca) and IKs can modulate the entry of Ca2+ into motor nerve terminals. However, under physiological conditions only IKf plays a key role in controlling the transient Ca2+ influx which is responsible for the phasic transmitter release. PMID- 2520355 TI - The influence of temperature and calcium concentration on the myoneural effect of antibiotics. AB - To obtain information on the sites and mechanisms of the myoneural effect of aminoglycoside and polypeptide type antibiotics, the influence of neomycin, streptomycin, gentamicin and polymyxin B on the depression of the force of contraction (P) of the rat phrenic nerve-hemidiaphragm preparation was investigated at 37 degrees C, 27 degrees C or 17 degrees C and also at 37 degrees C in electrolyte solutions containing 2.5, 1.25 or 0.625 mM CaCl2. Decreasing the temperature or the CaCl2 concentration ((CaCl2)o) of the bath significantly (p less than 0.001) decreased P. The depressant effect of aminoglycosides on P (about 50% of control at 17 degrees C) was increased more with lower temperatures than that of polymyxin B (about 20%). The effect of lowering the (CaCl2)o on the depression of P (about 90% of control at the lowest (CaCl2)o) was about the same with the 4 antibiotics. The development of the maximal effect and the recovery of P after washout was slower with polymyxin B than with the 3 aminoglycosides. 4 Aminopyridine antagonized the depression of P caused by polymyxin B less than that caused by aminoglycosides. The findings suggest that aminoglycosides depress myoneural activity primarily by inhibiting stimulated release of ACh. Polymyxin B also inhibits ACh release, but inhibition of the contraction of myofibrils contributes more significantly to its myoneural effects than with aminoglycosides. It is conceivable that blocking of the ionophores of the postjunctional membrane also contributes to the myoneural effects of polymyxin B. PMID- 2520356 TI - Convulxin does not induce convulsions when injected into the rat dorsal hippocampus. AB - The search for new and selective neurotoxins has attracted several efforts in the recent years. Convulxin, a neurotoxin isolated from the Crotalus durissus terrificus venom, was reported to elicit convulsions upon intravenous injection in mice and cats. Therefore we have studied the behavioral, electroencephalographic and neuropathological effects of convulxin when microinjected into the dorsal hippocampus of rats. To test the hypothesis that substances released by convulxin from platelets and not convulxin itself is the convulsive agent, we injected a mixture of convulxin and platelet rich plasma. Results demonstrated that neither convulxin nor convulxin/platelet rich plasma exhibited neurotoxic effects upon intrahippocampal injection. PMID- 2520357 TI - Rattlesnake venom: action upon erythrocytes and leucocytes of rats. AB - We studied the action of whole rattlesnake venom on red blood cells and leucocytes of adult male and female rats. Animals were surgically cannulated for blood collection directly from the inferior caval vein and injected intramuscularly in the thigh with a mixture of venoms from a large number of rattlesnakes. The signs shown by the animals were paralysis of the hind part of the body, lack of motor coordination, and respiratory difficulties, with death occurring in some cases. Necroscopy showed petechial hemorrhage in the intestine and jejunum and darkening of the viscera, which was found to be due to engorged blood vessels upon histopathological examination. Blood examination showed a change in color to dark brown due to the transformation of hemoglobin to methemoglobin. Venom fractions were found to have a low hemolytic power because of their low concentration in the venom samples. Blood sedimentation rate showed a clear variation, especially 60 minutes after venom injection. Both phenomena may be linked to the lytic power of the venoms. An interesting phenomenon was that the animals showed initial leucopenia, which was followed by persistent leucocytosis. Lymphocytopenia and increased neutrophil numbers were also observed. The present results led us to conclude that rattlesnake venom has a relative hemolytic power which increases with venom concentration and with the concentration of the fractions in whole venom. PMID- 2520358 TI - Is direct cardiotoxicity the primary cause of death following i.v. injection of the basic phospholipase A2 from Naja nigricollis venom? AB - The primary cause of death following i.v. injection of the basic phospholipase A2 (PLA2) from Naja nigricollis venom has been attributed to its direct cardiotoxicity. In view of our recent findings that cardiac failure caused by the basic PLA2 from Naja m. mossambica is primarily due to hyperkalemia resulting from cellular damage and possibly also from hemolysis, the cause of death due to the basic PLA2 from Naja nigricollis was re-investigated. In the anesthetized mice and rats, the PLA2 (0.3 micrograms/g, i.v.) produced a transient hypotension followed by recovery and subsequently by cardiac failure with ECG changes suggestive of hyperkalemia, such as P-R prolongation, tall T-wave, biphasic QRS-T complex, low voltage of QRS, A-V block, etc. Analysis of blood chemistry revealed marked increases in the plasma levels of K+, CPK, LDH, GOT, GPT, inorganic phosphate and hemoglobin (probably a mixture of hemoglobin and myoglobin). In the atrial preparation, however, no marked cardiotoxicity was observed except for a slight negative inotropic effect at 30 micrograms/ml. When 200 micrograms of the enzyme was injected into the coronary circulation in the Langendorff preparation, also no marked cardiotoxic effect was observed except for a decrease (about 40%) of coronary flow. From these results, it is concluded that the primary cause of death following i.v. injection of the basic PLA2 from Naja nigricollis is apparently cardiac failure due to hyperkalemia, resulting from cellular damage and possibly also from hemolysis, rather than direct cardiotoxicity. PMID- 2520359 TI - Effects of aminoglycoside antibiotics on calcium action potentials and calcium channel currents. AB - The author reviews work from his laboratory on the effects of neomycin and streptomycin on the Ca(2+)-dependent electrogenesis of crustacean muscle fibers and on two distinct Ca2+ channel currents of pituitary cells. The data indicate that these aminoglycosides inhibit the graded electrogenesis and the action potentials of crustacean muscle; these effects are accompanied by inhibition of tension development upon membrane depolarization. Increasing the extracellular Ca2+ concentration reverses the aminoglycoside-induced blockade of the Ca(2+) dependent electrogenesis of the muscle fibers. Neomycin blocked both the transient (T-type) and the slowly-inactivating (L-type) Ca2+ currents of clonal pituitary GH3 cells, studied with the whole cell modality of the patch clamp technique. The blockade of these currents was not modulated by activation or inactivation of the channels. Neomycin inhibited also the currents conveyed by Na+ through the slowly-inactivating Ca2+ in cells equilibrated with Ca(2+)-free media. Interpretation of these data led to the suggestion that the blockade of Ca2+ currents by neomycin (and other aminoglycosides) cannot be explained by competition with Ca2+ ions for binding to high affinity transition sites within the Ca2+ channel path. PMID- 2520360 TI - Aminoglycoside antibiotics as a tool for the study of the biological role of calcium ions. Historical overview. AB - Beginning with the pioneering work of Vital-Brazil and Corrado (1957), which suggested a possible interaction between aminoglycoside antibiotics (AGA) and calcium ions at the neuromuscular junction, the authors review the studies that demonstrated the existence of a competitive antagonism between AGA and calcium ions. In view of the low liposolubility of AGA and their inability to cross biological membranes, this antagonism seems to occur exclusively at calcium binding sites at the level of the outer opening of calcium channels of the N subtype, which are also the sites of interaction of omega-conotoxin. Being highly water soluble, AGA are easily removed from their binding sites with a consequent rapid reversal of their effects, a factor of primary importance to explain their wide use as tools in the pharmacological analysis of the study of the biological role of calcium ion on the membrane's outer surface. This use has advantages over the use of inorganic di- and trivalent cations such as Mg2+, Mn2+, Cd2+, Ni2+, La3+, etc., since the latter, though they are considered to be the most specific competitive antagonists of calcium ions, may induce biphasic effects due to their ability to cross the membranes and replace calcium and/or increase intracellular calcium concentration. The performance of AGA is also superior when compared with the so-called "specific" organic calcium antagonists--verapamil and nifedipine derivatives--since the latter, in addition to inducing possible biphasic effects, antagonize calcium in a non-competitive manner. Finally, the authors remark that AGA-Ca2+ antagonism relevance is not limited only to basic aspects and that it may have therapeutic implications since it provides alternatives for reducing the toxic adverse effects of this important group of antibiotics. PMID- 2520361 TI - Glomerular filtration rate and kidney volume in normoalbuminuric non-insulin dependent diabetics--lack of glomerular hyperfiltration and renal hypertrophy in uncomplicated NIDDM. AB - Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and kidney volume were evaluated in 18 healthy normoalbuminuric non-insulin-dependent diabetic patients and compared to 12 healthy controls matched for sex, age and body mass index (BMI). The patients (12 males, six females) were 61.6 +/- 3.4 (mean +/- SD) years old, the known diabetes duration was 5 +/- 4.8 years, fasting plasma glucose 8.6 +/- 2.3 mmol/l, urinary albumin excretion rate 7.9 x/divided by 2.0 micrograms/min, BMI 26.8 +/- 2.8 kg/m2 and blood pressure systolic/diastolic 145 +/- 19/82 +/- 7 mmHg. The GFR was measured by the plasma clearance of [51Cr]EDTA, using a single shot procedure. The kidney volume was measured by ultrasonic scanning. The GFR was not increased in diabetics: 100.4 +/- 16.7 ml/min/1.73 m2 as compared to controls: 93.8 +/- 11.4 ml/min/1.73 m2. The kidney volume was similar in the two groups. Diabetics: 231.1 +/- 33.4 ml/1.73 m2. CONTROLS: 236.3 +/- 45.7 ml/1.73 m2. There was a borderline significant correlation between kidney volume and GFR (r = 0.40, p = 0.10) in diabetics. No correlation between glycosylated haemoglobin and GFR was found in diabetics. In contrast to the findings in insulin-dependent diabetes renal hypertrophy and hyperfunction were not characteristic features in this series of non-insulin-dependent diabetics. It is suggested that diabetic glomerulopathy is not always a consequence of long-standing hyperfiltration. PMID- 2520362 TI - Changes in pneumonectomy-space gas tensions. AB - The development of a simple and reliable method for measurement of the partial pressures of the atmospheric gases offers the possibility of both basic and clinical examination of the air in natural as well as pathological or iatrogenic cavities. From measurements in nine patients a plot of the changes in pO2 and pCO2 in the pneumonectomy space from the end of the thoracotomy to the establishment of equilibrium with the blood gases was made. pCO2 equilibrated faster than pO2 (6- and 50 h respectively). The equilibrium difference between arterial pO2 and pneumonectomy space pO2 was 6.5 kPa (2.5-12.3 kPa) and we propose that measuring this difference may be a sensitive method for the diagnosis of bronchopleural fistula. During the study period one of the patients developed a bronchopleural fistula. The suspicion was based on X-ray findings and was supported by gas analysis from the pneumonectomy space, and conclusively confirmed by bronchoscopy. PMID- 2520363 TI - Increased bronchial chloride concentration in cystic fibrosis. AB - Ten patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) and 10 patients with severe chronic bronchitis were analysed for bronchial electrolyte composition. Samples aspirated from the left main bronchus by a fibre-optic bronchoscope were dissolved in an iso-osmolar solution of N-acetylcysteine, and separated from cells and bacteria by gentle centrifugation. The concentrations of potassium and calcium were measured by flame emission and atomic absorption spectrometry, and found to be similar in both groups of patients. The mean concentration of chloride, measured by coulometric titration, was significantly higher in patients with CF than in patients with chronic bronchitis (170 vs. 85 mmol l-1, p less than 0.01). The findings are consistent with a functional abnormality of the chloride channels of the airway epithelium in patients with CF. PMID- 2520364 TI - Discriminative ability of total body bone-mineral measured by dual photon absorptiometry. AB - We investigated the discriminative ability of total body bone-mineral expressed as the total body bone-density (TBBD) measured by dual photon absorptiometry (DPA) in 79 healthy premenopausal women, 27 healthy postmenopausal women, and 120 female osteoporotic fracture patients presenting with either Colles' fracture, vertebral fracture or femoral neck-fracture. TBBD was compared to the bone mineral density of the lumbar spine (BMDspine) also measured by DPA, and to the bone-mineral content of the forearms (BMCforearm) measured by single photon absorptiometry (SPA). TBBD, BMDspine and BMCforearm showed that all the fracture patient groups had significantly reduced bone-mass. Using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, we found that TBBD had a tendency towards better discriminative ability than BMDspine or BMCforearm with regard to the discrimination between healthy premenopausal women and the three types of osteoporotic fractures (not significant in spinal fracture patients). BMCforearm had an intermediate position, whereas BMDspine had the smallest discriminative ability. TBBD also discriminated better between healthy postmenopausal women and hip-fracture patients than BMDspine or BMCforearm, whereas there was no significant difference between the three methods regarding the discrimination between the healthy postmenopausal women and the Colles' and spinal fracture patients. We conclude that the TBBD measurement by DPA has a discriminative potential which is better than the local spine or forearm measurements. PMID- 2520365 TI - Influence of lipid and leukocytes on the haemoglobin determination by Coulter Counter S Plus III, Technicon H 6000, Technicon H 1, LK 540, Reflotron and Hemocap. AB - The influence of lipid and high concentrations of leukocytes on the haemoglobin determination by six different instruments was examined. The increase in the determination of haemoglobin concentration with elevated amounts of lipid in the samples was greatest with the Coulter Counter S plus III and the Technicon H 1 followed by the LK 540 and the Technicon H 6000. There was no effect of lipid on the haemoglobin determination using the Reflotron. High concentrations of leukocytes increased the haemoglobin determination most by Coulter Counter S plus III and Hemocap. There were no changes in the haemoglobin determinations by the LK 540 and the Technicon H 6000 when the samples contained increased amounts of leukocytes. PMID- 2520366 TI - Nicotine does not affect plasma lipoprotein concentrations in healthy men. AB - The effects of nicotine administration (2 mg eight-times daily as nicotine chewing gum for two weeks) on plasma lipid and lipoprotein concentrations were studied in young healthy volunteers. Plasma levels of the nicotine metabolite, cotinine, reached levels comparable to those seen in smokers. Plasma concentrations of triglyceride, cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and apolipoproteins AI and B, were determined repeatedly before, during and after cessation of nicotine intake. All these variables, as well as the activities of lipoprotein lipase and hepatic lipase in post-heparin plasma, remained unchanged throughout the study. The results strongly suggest that the effects of smoking on plasma lipoprotein metabolism are not mediated via nicotine, and indicate that nicotine chewing gum, when used therapeutically in anti-smoking programmes, does not carry the same metabolic side effects as smoking. PMID- 2520367 TI - The effects of cimetidine on creatinine excretion, glomerular filtration rate and tubular function in renal transplant recipients. AB - The renal clearance of endogenous creatinine (CCr), sodium (CNa) and lithium (CLi) was determined before and after a single intravenous bolus of cimetidine in nine renal transplant recipients. The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was measured with 125I-iothalamate clearance (CTh). The initial CCr of 65 ml/min (median) was reduced to a nadir of 46 ml/min (p less than 0.01) during the first 2 h after infusion of cimetidine. GFR remained unchanged, and thus the fractional clearance of creatinine (CCr/CTh) was reduced from 1.43 (median) to 1.03 (p less than 0.01). CNa and the fractional excretion of sodium decreased throughout the study (p less than 0.05); CLi was unchanged. In conclusion cimetidine, when measured during 1-h clearance periods, interferes with tubular creatinine secretion in the denervated kidney of transplant recipients without affecting the glomerular filtration rate or proximal tubular flow. This suggests that on-going cimetidine treatment must be taken into account when graft function is evaluated by the CCr alone. PMID- 2520368 TI - Preservation of factor VIII activity in plasma by different freezing techniques, as determined with a chromogenic microtray assay. AB - The preservation of factor VIII activity in frozen plasma was studied using three different freezing techniques. Two were conventional methods, i.e. ethanol bath at -40 degrees C, and deep-frozen at -80 degrees C, and the third was a novel air based -40 degrees C freezer with metal compartments and snugly fitting flat 750 ml plasma containers. No statistically significant difference in preservation of factor VIII was observed, irrespective of freezing technique, as determined with a chromogenic substrate assay. PMID- 2520369 TI - Determination of serum levels of unesterified lathosterol by isotope dilution mass spectrometry. AB - The synthesis of 2H3-labelled lathosterol is described. This compound was used together with 2H7-labelled cholesterol for simultaneous assay of unesterified lathosterol and cholesterol in serum by isotope dilution-mass spectrometry. After addition of a fixed amount of the two internal standards to a fixed amount of serum (in general 25 microliter), the steroids were extracted with chloroform and subjected to Lipidex 5000 chromatography. The fraction containing cholesterol and lathosterol was converted into trimethylsilyl ether and subjected to mass spectrometric analysis with selected monitoring of the ions at m/z 458 (molecular ion of the trimethylsilyl ether derivative of unlabelled cholesterol and lathosterol), m/z 461 (molecular ion of derivative of 2H3-labelled lathosterol) and m/z 465 (molecular ion of derivative of 2H7-labelled cholesterol). Individual standard curves were used for assay of each steroid. Under the conditions employed, the coefficient of variation of the two assays was less than 6%. In different recovery experiments the maximal difference between expected and found values was less than 7%. Using a less accurate method for analysis of lathosterol, we have shown previously that there is a high correlation between the hepatic HMG CoA reductase and the relative concentration of unesterified lathosterol in serum (concentration of lathosterol relative to cholesterol). This was confirmed with the present method and a correlation coefficient of about 0.94 was found between the two parameters. It is concluded that the present method may be suitable for detection of cases with accelerated rate of synthesis of cholesterol. PMID- 2520371 TI - Plasma catecholamines in some airline passengers. AB - Assuming that the act of flying may provoke mental stress and increments in plasma catecholamines, in-flight plasma catecholamines were compared in two groups of passengers: a group of ordinary passengers (Group 1, n = 15) and a group of passengers who had just completed a cognitive, behavioural treatment programme against flight phobia (Group 2, n = 13). No difference in catecholamines was observed between the groups. However, 10 of the subjects in Group 1 and 12 of the subjects in Group 2 had in-flight plasma adrenaline higher than the highest mean +2 SD (above 0.40 nmol/l) of resting plasma adrenaline observed in healthy subjects in a long series of studies previously or simultaneously done in our laboratory. Subjects in Group 2 (n = 12) showed an average decrease of 50% from in-flight to post-flight plasma adrenaline. Plasma noradrenaline values were not elevated compared to normal resting levels, but an average reduction of 24% was observed between in-flight and post-flight in Group 2. We could not detect any difference between passengers treated for flight phobia and ordinary passengers. However, in-flight plasma catecholamines, particularly adrenaline, seem to be elevated in some airline passengers of various backgrounds. The most plausible explanation seems to be the discomfort and fear some people feel when flying; however, we cannot exclude that the physiological act of flying per se increased plasma catecholamines. Relatively larger variations in plasma adrenaline compared to noradrenaline may favour the first of these two possible explanations. PMID- 2520370 TI - Production and evaluation of monospecific antibodies for a processing-independent sequence of human progastrin. AB - We have produced a series of monospecific antibodies in five rabbits by immunization with a peptide corresponding to the preprogastrin sequence 76-88. Both antibody titres (0.2 to 3.0 x 10(6)), indexes of heterogeneity (approximately 1.0), and binding affinities (Koeff approximately 0.2 to 3.7 x 10(12) 1 x mol-1) were very high. The specificity for the N-terminus of the progastrin fragment was unique because even a conservative amino acid substitution five positions from the centre of binding diminished the binding by 90% for all antibodies. We conclude that these monospecific antibodies are well suited for development of a processing-independent analysis of progastrin and its products. PMID- 2520373 TI - Influence of urinary flow-rate on proteinuria. PMID- 2520372 TI - Topical corticosteroid inhibits autoregulation of cutaneous blood flow. AB - In eight healthy persons, the skin-fold between the thumb and the forefinger was treated with a potent corticosteroid under occlusive dressings. Before treatment and following 10, 24, 48 and 72 h of steroid application, cutaneous autoregulation of blood flow and reactive hyperaemia were measured by means of the atraumatic epicutaneous 133Xe washout technique. Using the outer 2 mm of the skin-fold, and shielding the rest of the hand with a lead plate, cutaneous blood flow rate could be monitored separately. After 10 h of treatment, autoregulation of blood flow was almost unaffected, but after 24 h of treatment and during the following 2 days, the autoregulatory response exhibited a significant reduction, which correlated to steroid application time. Reactive hyperaemia demonstrated a clear, but insignificant, reduction at 10 h of treatment; however during the following 48 h, maximal post-occlusive blood flow rate was significantly reduced. Placebo did not affect either autoregulation of blood flow or reactive hyperaemia. PMID- 2520374 TI - Inpatient treatment of headache. AB - An inpatient headache treatment unit provides a special environment for those patients whose headaches have failed to respond to outpatient therapy. Outpatient therapy may be precluded for a variety of treatment issues, including detoxification, initiation of copharmacy prophylactic medical therapy, and intravenous treatment for intractable chronic cluster headache and status migrainous headache. These complex medical treatments are viewed as some of the most valuable therapies by the patients and, at least in part, significantly decrease both headache indexes utilized in this survey. The various psychological, educational, and other adjunctive therapies utilized in an inpatient unit are considered beneficial by many patients. Psychological approaches are considered more useful to migrainous patients. Treatment failures may be due to variations in the etiology of chronic muscle contraction headache and posttraumatic headache. Denial of psychological factors in headache may also contribute to treatment failure. Habituation to analgesics and ergots may decrease patient response as compared with those not dependent. PMID- 2520375 TI - Sexual aspects of headache and headache in AIDS. PMID- 2520376 TI - Migraine headache variants. AB - Migraine headache variants consist of the complicated migraine headache subtypes such as basilar artery migraine, migraine equivalents, and late-life migraine accompanients. Although these disorders occur infrequently, diagnosis may be more difficult. Generally, comprehensive diagnostic studies are required to rule out underlying pathogenic conditions that may present with similar symptom complexes. Standard migraine treatment is often useful in these disorders; however, migrainous variants deserve special therapeutic considerations. PMID- 2520377 TI - Drug abuse in headache patients. AB - A significant percentage of chronic headache sufferers use excessive quantities of substances for relief. Drug dependency is frequent in these patients. Patients have an impaired lifestyle, sustain organ system damage, may suffer a withdrawal syndrome, and continue to have headaches. Drug abuse must cease before a satisfactory remission occurs. Particular attention is directed to ergotamine, butalbital, analgesics, and caffeine. The mechanism of substance abuse may be related to repeated use of substances that reinforce behavior and stimulate brain reward systems. Treatment includes comprehensive diagnostic workup, withdrawal of the agent, and use of headache preventives. beta-Adrenergic blockers, tricyclic antidepressants, monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors, and nonsteroidal anti inflammatory agents may be of value. Behavior modification and dietary counseling are also helpful. PMID- 2520378 TI - The management of pain by pharmacological agents. PMID- 2520379 TI - The management of chronic pain. PMID- 2520380 TI - Tyramine sulfoconjugation in relation to depression in migraine. A pilot study. AB - Tyramine sulfoconjugation following an oral tyramine load was determined in 30 patients suffering from migraine and 14 controls not regularly suffering from headache. Reduced tyramine sulfoconjugation was found in those patients with a history of major depressive disorder compared with controls. When the patients with a history of major depression were removed from the analysis, no differences were found between diet-sensitive and non-diet sensitive migraine patients and controls. PMID- 2520381 TI - Psychological factors affecting migraine. AB - Psychological factors are known to increase the severity and intensity of headaches. When they are shown to be present, an appropriate psychiatric diagnosis is the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual's (DSMIII-R) category of psychological factors affecting physical condition (code no. 316.0). These factors can be differentiated into stress factors, personality traits, psychodynamic factors, learned behaviors, and mood disturbances. The factors overlap and intertwine in the average headache patient. Attention to these factors in a systematic way should enhance our understanding and treatment of the chronic headache patient. PMID- 2520382 TI - Cluster headache. A review. PMID- 2520383 TI - Migraine headache. Its diagnosis and treatment. AB - Many theories exist on the pathogenesis of migraine. However, the clinical picture of migraine is agreed on universally as a familial disorder characterized by recurrent attacks of headache that are variable in intensity, frequency, and duration. The attacks are usually unilateral and often associated with anorexia, nausea, and vomiting. Migraine therapy is complex and difficult, focusing on abortive and prophylactic regimens. General therapeutic measures, including diet and establishing schedules for meals and sleeping, may benefit many migraineurs. A variety of medications, including ergotamine, propranolol, the calcium channel blockers, antidepressants, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have been beneficial in the prophylactic treatment of migraine. Ergotamine is the drug of choice in the abortive treatment, although other agents, such as the NSAIDs, have been used successfully. Inpatient therapy in a specialized unit for headache patients may be indicated for the recidivist patient, the patient habituated to analgesics or ergotamine, or the patient with the mixed headache syndrome, i.e., migraine occurring with coexistent muscle contraction headaches. PMID- 2520384 TI - Muscle contraction (tension) headache. AB - Muscle contraction headache is the most common headache afflicting mankind. Acute muscle contraction headache usually presents no problem in treatment and is a self-limited condition. Chronic muscle contraction headache presents a very difficult treatment problem. Patients are often dependent on drugs and treatment usually necessitates a multimodal approach. The pathophysiology of muscle contraction headache is unknown. There is much controversy as to whether muscle contraction is the primary cause of this condition or whether muscle contraction is merely another component of this syndrome. The extensive research now going on in the field of chronic pain should help clarify the issue. PMID- 2520385 TI - Sexual headaches occurring in cluster headache patients. AB - A number of classifications of headache have appeared in medical and professional journals. In addition to these formal diagnostic classifications, a number of articles have addressed the relationship of sexual functioning to headache etiology, course, and prevalence. To this end, many headache specialists have developed a classification for what are termed "sexual headaches." To date, these sexual headaches have been limited to migraine and muscle contraction (tension) headache patterns. We present, for the first time, two case studies documenting the role of sexual activity in both etiology and course of cluster headache. PMID- 2520386 TI - Beneficial effect of capsaicin application to the nasal mucosa in cluster headache. AB - Capsaicin application to human nasal mucosa was found to induce painful sensation, sneezing, and nasal secretion. All of these factors exhibit desensitization upon repeated applications. The acute effects induced by capsaicin (300 micrograms/100 microliters) application to the nasal mucosa were studied in healthy volunteers and cluster headache patients. These effects were not different in both nostrils of cluster headache patients as well as in the single nostril of healthy controls. Likewise, the time course of desensitization to the painful sensation and nasal secretion induced by capsaicin applied for five consecutive days in control subjects was almost superimposable to those observed in the nasal mucosa of cluster headache patients. The number of spontaneously occurring attacks was significantly reduced in the 60 days after the end of capsaicin treatment. Whether the beneficial effect induced by capsaicin application to the nasal mucosa could be ascribed to a specific action on sensory neurons remains unknown. PMID- 2520387 TI - Management of the cranial neuralgias and atypical facial pain. A review. PMID- 2520388 TI - Miscellaneous headaches. PMID- 2520389 TI - Headaches in children and adolescents. AB - The diagnosis and management of various HA syndromes in children and adolescents have been reviewed. The decision as to whether a child's HA is organic or functional may be a difficult one, but a thorough and systematic history and examination coupled with selected laboratory tests will usually guide the examiner to the correct diagnosis. PMID- 2520390 TI - Headache and head trauma. AB - Headache is a common symptom following head trauma and not related to the degree of trauma. The term post-head-trauma syndrome is used to denote a group of symptoms following head trauma. Dizziness, vertigo, perceptual changes, memory loss, paresthesias, and tinnitus have been reported as well as psychological disturbances. Pathophysiology of headache and other symptoms in the syndrome are believed to relate to vascular and neuronal disturbances. Imaging techniques may provide objective evidence of changes in the brain. Often diagnostic studies do not reveal an abnormality. Treatment consists of diagnosing the type of headache and targeting appropriate therapy. Long-term prognosis is good, the majority of patients recovering after 1 year. PMID- 2520391 TI - Headache as a symptom of cerebrovascular disease. AB - In some forms of cerebrovascular disease, such as intracranial hemorrhage, headaches are well known as a prominent symptom and often are a valuable clue to diagnosis. There are difficulties, sometimes, in distinguishing between a small subarachnoid hemorrhage and a severe migraine headache, but these can be resolved using clinical observations, CT scan, and lumbar puncture. It seems less well known that headaches may accompany or precede cerebral thrombosis and embolism. When these headaches are recognized as a forerunner to stroke, they may allow an opportunity for preventive treatment. PMID- 2520392 TI - Management of the headache patient with medical illness. AB - The recent development of new drug therapies for headache disorders has allowed for the tailoring of treatment to specific patient needs. This paper reviews the pharmacologic management of patients with both headache and concomitant medical illness. The discussion specifically includes the treatment of hypertension, coronary artery disease, mitral valve prolapse, asthma, peptic ulcer disease, obesity, and chronic Epstein-Barr virus infection, occurring concomitantly in patients with headache. Medications that can exacerbate either the headache or concurrent medical condition are noted, and alternative therapies are advised. PMID- 2520393 TI - Perspectives on surgical indications. Implications for controls. AB - Surgical indications do not forecast outcomes as well as they should. A review of the literature demonstrates a significant rate of overutilization of coronary angiography, coronary artery surgery, cardiac pacemaker insertion, upper gastrointestinal endoscopies, carotid endarterectomies, back surgery, and pain relieving procedures. The tendency appears to be a reduction in developing specific indications, and the evolution of a "last resort" concept. Arguments against this approach and a plea for the development of tighter focused indications are presented. Implications for cost saving and reduction in suffering are discussed. PMID- 2520394 TI - Randomized trial of Codetron for pain control in osteoarthritis of the hip/knee. AB - Patients suffering from pain due to osteoarthritis of the hip and knee participated in a double-blind placebo controlled trial using daily Codetron home care units for 6 weeks over the tibial, saphenous, popliteal and sciatic nerves, and tender points. Seventy-four percent of patients in the real Codetron (Group A) and 28% of the patients in sham Codetron (Group B) improved their pain level more than 25% as measured by visual analogue scale. The difference in pain improvement in the two groups was statistically significant (p less than 0.02 using Fisher's exact probability ratio). Other functional parameters proved to be insensitive to change in this study. This is highly suggestive of beneficial effect of nonhabituating Codetron as a complementary modality in the therapy of chronic pain conditions such as osteoarthritis. PMID- 2520395 TI - Long-term results of cervical epidural steroid injections. AB - Fifty-eight patients undergoing cervical epidural injection of corticosteroids were followed for a 6-month period. Patients with 90% pain relief lasting 6 months were considered to have excellent results, those with greater than 50% pain relief lasting at least 6 weeks were considered to have good results, and all others were considered to have poor results. Six months after the injection, 41.4% of patients had excellent pain relief by our criteria. Twenty-nine percent of patients reported good results and 29.3% had poor results. Those patients with the diagnosis of cervical spondylosis and those with subacute cervical strain had statistically significantly (p less than 0.001, difference of proportions test) better results than patients with other diagnoses. The procedure of cervical epidural steroid injection may be most effective in patients with cervical degenerative joint disease as the etiology of their cervical pain. PMID- 2520396 TI - Continuous subcutaneous infusion of buprenorphine for cancer pain control. AB - The continuous subcutaneous infusion of buprenorphine, a new approach to the relief of severe cancer pain, has been carried out using a portable infusion pump. The efficacy of this method was examined in 30 patients by visual analogue scale. An infusion rate of 4 micrograms/kg/day following intramuscular administration of 0.004 micrograms/kg gave satisfactory pain relief without serious complications. The minimum effective blood concentration was not detectable by high-performance liquid chromatography. Advantages of this therapy are its simplicity, applicability in many types of cancer, multiple sites of administration, and easier training on the part of health personnel. PMID- 2520398 TI - Self-hypnosis in chronic pain. A multiple baseline study of five highly hypnotisable subjects. AB - The efficacy of self-hypnosis in the treatment of chronic pain was evaluated using a multiple baseline design for five patients referred to the Auckland Hospital Pain Clinic. Subjects were selected for high hypnotisability using the Stanford Hypnotic Clinical Scale. Daily records of pain intensity, sleep quality, medication requirements, and self-hypnosis practice were completed. At four research interviews the Health Locus of Control survey, the McGill Pain Questionnaire, and the Illness Self Concept Repertory Grid (ISCRG) were administered. Subjects also reported on daily activities and quality of life. Postal follow-up assessment occurred after 2 years. Two subjects reported overall improvement, two demonstrated little change in condition, although self-hypnosis was effective on some occasions, and one subject experienced deterioration in her condition. The patients showed an increase in personal locus of control and a shift of self-concept away from physical illness on the ISCRG. The results suggest that self-hypnosis can be a highly effective technique for some patients with chronic pain but not for all. Selection criteria and clinical factors other than hypnotisability need to be considered in further research, since even highly hypnotisable subjects may derive limited benefit from self-hypnosis. PMID- 2520399 TI - Hypnosis and chronic pain. Two contrasting case studies. AB - Some of the theoretical and technical problems associated with the use of hypnosis for chronic pain are discussed in the context of two similar case studies, one of which had an unsuccessful outcome. Different hypnotic strategies are discussed which depend on a careful, direct evaluation of the role of secondary gain and depression in maintaining the pain in the two patients. Specific hypnotic interventions are described, based on dissociation, imagery and the non-specific components of the hypnotic relationship. Self-hypnotic procedures are described stressing the development of mastery and self-control over pain. Differences in the kinds of hypnotic intervention that are appropriate when secondary gain or depression are central to the pain problem, compared to the more direct techniques available when they are not, are discussed. PMID- 2520397 TI - The subjective experience of acute pain. An assessment of the utility of 10 indices. AB - Sixty-nine postoperative patients indicated the severity of their pain using eight measures designed to assess pain intensity and two designed to measure pain affect. The utility and validity of the 10 measures were evaluated according to two criteria: (a) the magnitude of the relationship between each scale and a linear combination of the pain measures, and (b) relative rates of incorrect responding. The results indicate that each of the measures of pain intensity is adequately valid. In addition, this sample of patients failed to differentiate pain intensity and pain affect using the present measures, suggesting the need for additional research to explore the validity of the affective measures employed in the study. The 11-point Box Scale (BS-11) of pain intensity demonstrated the strongest relationship to a linear combination of all of the measures employed and was responded to correctly by each subject in the sample. All else being equal, these results suggest that the BS-11 scale may be the most useful clinical index of pain intensity among postoperative patients. PMID- 2520400 TI - Antibiotics and morphinomimetic injections prevent automutilation behavior in rats after dorsal rhizotomy. AB - Unilateral section of dorsal roots C5 to T1 were performed in rats, and the automutilation behavior was measured by the extent of the limb lesions expressed in arbitrary units. Changes in the scores of automutilation were studied after the injection of four substances: a morphinomimetic (pethidine) and three antibiotics, chloramphenicol, amoxicillin, and doxycycline. Effects were tested on groups of at least eight rats that were compared with another group of eight animals operated on in the same way but injected with distilled water. The animals of the group treated with pethidine performed significantly less autotomy than did the animals in the control group. The same effect was found when the animals were injected with chloramphenicol and amoxicillin. On the contrary, doxycycline was found less efficacious. These results are discussed using the hypothesis of autotomy caused by an abnormal painful sensation felt in the deafferented forelimb. PMID- 2520401 TI - Decreasing osteoarthritis pain. A psychological case report with follow-up data. AB - Biofeedback, progressive muscle training, and relaxation tape home practice were implemented in an attempt to decrease knee pain in a subject diagnosed with osteoarthritis. Pain journal data suggested that the subject's pain levels decreased significantly during training and for 2 years posttraining. Training session data suggested that the subject was able to increase her skin temperature at the site of her pain. One possible explanation for these changes was the home practice of her relaxation tape, as increased practice was inversely related to decreased pain. This clinical case report provided some preliminary information on the potential efficacy of psychological procedures in osteoarthritis pain management. PMID- 2520402 TI - Outcome of implanted spinal cord stimulation in the treatment of chronic pain: arachnoiditis versus single nerve root injury and mononeuropathy. Brief clinical note. AB - Over a 3 1/2-year period, a series of 20 chronic pain patients with back pain and with documented organic difficulties were treated by means of implanted spinal cord stimulation. Short-term treatment outcome was found to be significantly related to diagnosis, with single nerve root injury and mononeuropathy patients having better treatment outcomes than arachnoiditis patients with multiply injured nerve roots. Outcome was not related to the psychological evaluation, or age, sex, number of previous pain surgeries, pain location, the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory, or the Pain Assessment Index. Implications for patient selection are discussed. PMID- 2520403 TI - Percutaneous injection of glycerol for the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia. AB - There continues a significant debate over the best contemporary method for treating trigeminal neuralgia. Glycerol injection into the trigeminal cistern has been used in a consecutive series of 200 patients. A total of 80% of the patients have had good or excellent pain relief. Side effects have been a mild and usually transient numbness and tingling or mild objective sensory deficit to pin and touch in approximately 1/2 of the patients. Complications have been extremely infrequent and have resolved in time. A recurrence rate of 24% has been the single largest disadvantage of the procedure. Reinjection is usually successful in treatment of recurrence. The combination of efficacy, minimal and temporary neurologic dysfunction, and low complication rate make this procedure, in our opinion, the procedure of choice for the first step, when surgical treatment is required. PMID- 2520404 TI - M6G and its analgesic action in chronic use. PMID- 2520405 TI - The use of fluoxetine in the treatment of headache. PMID- 2520406 TI - A comparison of regional intravenous guanethidine and reserpine in reflex sympathetic dystrophy. A controlled, randomized, double-blind crossover study. AB - Both regional intravenous guanethidine and reserpine have been reported as effective in the treatment of reflex sympathetic dystrophy. Reserpine depletes storage of norepinephrine, and guanethidine interferes with transport of norepinephrine while depleting storage in the sympathetic nerve terminal. The purpose of this study was to compare drug efficacy in double-blind fashion. Twelve patients, 10 of whom had previous stellate or lumbar sympathetic blocks, were entered into this double-blind cross-over study. Each patient successively received 20 mg guanethidine in 50 ml 0.5% lidocaine, 1.25 mg reserpine in 50 ml 0.5% lidocaine, and 50 ml 0.5% lidocaine with a 1-week interval between medications. At the end of the study and before the code was broken, each patient had the option of continuing treatment with any of the three drugs: the patient merely asked for the first, second, or third drug. Pain assessment used verbal ordinal, numeric, and visual analog scales. Follow-up lasted for a minimum of 6 months. Changes in pain intensity for the first 3 days did not differ significantly among guanethidine, reserpine, and control groups. Pain relief from 2 to 14 months was achieved in two patients receiving reserpine, one receiving guanethidine, and none receiving lidocaine. None of the patients experienced permanent relief. No difference was found between reserpine and guanethidine. PMID- 2520407 TI - Diagnostic epidural opioid technique. AB - Diagnostic epidural blocks were performed on 27 chronic pain patients sequentially using saline, fentanyl, and lidocaine solution. The patients were divided into one of four groups based on their response to the epidural solutions: placebo response group--pain relief with placebo solutions; fentanyl response group--pain relief with epidural fentanyl; lidocaine response group (LRG)--pain relief with lidocaine but not fentanyl; and no response group--no pain relief with any of the solutions used. The four groups were compared on the basis of age, sex, site of pain, duration of pain, narcotic use, pain assessment index, and workmen's compensation claims. The comparisons resulted in the conclusion that LRG patients had a much longer average duration of pain than the other groups. On the basis of the information gathered, it was theorized that, despite their response to epidural lidocaine, LRG patients may actually be a group of operant pain patients. Their failure to receive analgesia from epidural fentanyl may be a learned response such that they associate any sensory input from the affected area as painful. If follow-up studies support these findings, then the diagnostic opioid technique may be a more sensitive tool in diagnosing chronic pain. PMID- 2520408 TI - Epidural administration of morphine for control of cancer pain: long-term efficacy and complications. AB - The long-term analgesic effects and the complications of epidural narcotic analgesia (ENA) were investigated in 40 cancer patients in whom systemic narcotic therapy failed to relieve pain or caused unacceptable side effects. In 32 patients, an externally fixated polyamide epidural catheter was used ("external group"), and in 8 patients, a polyurethane epidural catheter was tunneled and connected to a subcutaneous access port ("internal group"). The average duration of catheter treatment was 80.9 days (range 9-533 days). Twenty-five patients were treated as outpatients, and 15 remained hospitalized. Initially, all patients had significant or complete pain relief from 10 mg morphine/day, but the daily epidural morphine requirement showed a threefold increase during the first 3 weeks. During ENA, other methods of pain relief (radiotherapy, chemotherapy, surgery, epidural administration of local anesthetics, and nerve blocks) were necessary in 14 patients. Pharmacological side effects were of minor importance, with transient pruritus being the main subjective complaint. In the "external" group, 31 catheter replacements were necessary, mostly due to backflow of injected morphine outside the catheter. In two patients of the internal group, neurological complications occurred, but these disappeared spontaneously after removal of the system. They were presumably due to epidural fibrosis with compression of the spinal cord. Further technical improvements are necessary for the easier use and higher safety of the catheter technique. PMID- 2520409 TI - Outpatient treatment of chronic pain groups for couples. AB - The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of outpatient group treatment for chronic pain patients and their spouses on psychological symptomatology, marital adjustment, and locus of control. There was a significant improvement in mean scores on four of the seven measures pre- and post-treatment. This data suggests that group treatment can significantly reduce chronic pain related problems especially anxiety, depression, and interpersonal sensitivity for the patient as well as for the spouse. It also supports other findings for the effectiveness of brief group therapy programs for chronic pain patients. Although this study has several limitations the results warrant further investigation using control groups and a larger sample size. PMID- 2520410 TI - The prevalence and management of pain in patients with AIDS: a review of 134 cases. AB - In light of the lack of any prior systematic evaluations of the prevalence and types of pain syndromes and treatments found in patients with AIDS, a chart review study was undertaken to evaluate this issue. Fifty-two of 96 charts reviewed (54%) had at least one note on nonprocedural pain or analgesic prescription. Although chest pain was the most prevalent pain location (22%), presumably because of the high incidence of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia, other possible AIDS-related entities, such as peripheral neuropathy and thrombophlebitis, were also found. No specific AIDS syndromes could be identified that were related to a higher incidence of pain. Nearly one-third of patients with pain received codeine (31%), others received acetaminophen (27%), and 17% of patients received acetaminophen and oxycodone HCl. Specific pain management interventions must be evaluated and applied to control the nontrivial occurrence of pain in patients who have AIDS symptoms that may be overlooked by the physician given the overwhelming disease process. PMID- 2520411 TI - Thermography in diagnosis of radiculopathies. AB - Infrared imaging (thermography) has developed rapidly over the past 10-15 years as a diagnostic imaging procedure. Despite scientific validation and proven use in the clinical setting, neuromuscular thermography has met with much criticism and skepticism. The emotional and political controversy surrounding thermography has distracted the medical community to such an extent that the real issue of utmost importance to the practicing physician is often ignored. The basic scientific foundation of medicine should preclude the prejudicial influence of emotion, politics, and anecdotes. Scientific investigations, for more than 2 decades now, have demonstrated that neuromuscular thermography is of proven value in the clinical evaluation of various pain disorders and neuromuscular conditions, including radicular pathology. PMID- 2520412 TI - Pain patients and marital relations. AB - Fifty-one subjects with chronic pain were assessed for couple functioning utilizing the Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scale. In addition, they completed the Beck Depression Inventory. Results revealed serious difficulty in virtually all aspects of couple functioning for the subjects. Depressed subjects reported a higher level of couple dysfunction than the nondepressed group. Duration of pain was found to be unrelated to family adaptability, family cohesion, and family stability. PMID- 2520413 TI - The current status of pain clinics in Italy: a questionnaire survey. AB - One hundred-eight questionnaires were mailed to Pain and Headache Centers evenly spread throughout Italy to evaluate the current status of pain clinics and therapy. Sixty-three centers (58.3%) responded: fifty-two (82.5%) were Pain Clinics, while eleven (17.5%) were Headache Clinics. Approximately half of the clinics were run by anesthesiologists (43.3%), followed by neurosurgeons (15%), and neurologists (10%). The Pain Team involved up to 26 members (average number: 7), with representatives from anesthesiologists (71.4%), psychologists and psychiatrists (52.4%), neurologists (36.5%), specialists in internal medicine (23.8%), and neurosurgeons (20.6%). The outpatient pain clinic made up the great majority of the respondents (80.9%), whereas the in-patient service for both emergency and elective pain treatment was available in twenty-six centers (41.3%). A total of 49.445 patients (average number: 810) were treated in a period of one year. Pain syndromes most frequently treated (mean incidence) were (a) cancer pain (39.0%); (b) chronic primary headache (37.3%); (c) non-oncologic extra-cephalic pain (37.0%); and (d) orofacial pain (17.2%). A multidisciplinary team approach was used by 65% of the respondents. Treatment modalities most frequently used were drugs (mean utilization index, MUI: 138), followed by anesthesiological methods (MUI: 70), neuroaugmentive procedures (MUI: 51), psychiatric and psychophysiological methods (MUI: 33), and neurosurgical procedures (MUI: 28). Mean percent immediate and long-term treatment successes (pain relief 50%) were the following: (a) cancer pain (74.7-63.3%): (b) non oncologic pain (66.7-50.3%); (c) chronic primary headache (64.2-52.6%); and (d) orofacial pain (64.2-52.5%).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2520415 TI - Myofascial trigger points and the whiplash syndrome. PMID- 2520414 TI - Homicide-suicide and chronic pain. AB - Homicide-Suicide (H-S) is a form of dual death where the murder is closely followed by the suicide of the perpetrator. H-S is extremely rare and has not previously been described within the chronic pain patient population. Such a case is presented. Psychiatric examination data from the victims of H-S revealed a number of complex, psychiatric, social, vocational, and litigation problems. Demographically the case displays some characteristics associated with suicide pacts. PMID- 2520416 TI - Pain management: challenge for the 1990's. PMID- 2520418 TI - Trial of intravenous lidocaine on painful neuropathy in cancer patients. AB - In 10 cancer patients with cutaneous allodynia, intravenous lidocaine (5 mg/kg body weight) or 0.9% NaCl was given in a double blind, cross-over study to determine the analgesic effect. One patient had complete and one had partial pain relief with lidocaine infusion, whereas three patients experienced partial pain relief with placebo. Neither lidocaine nor placebo reduced pain intensity or consumption of analgesics significantly during the study period. Intravenous infusion of lidocaine cannot be recommended as routine pain treatment in cancer patients with cutaneous allodynia or pain, but further studies are needed to test the effect of lidocaine on different peripheral stimuli. PMID- 2520419 TI - Diode laser in cervical myofascial pain: a double-blind study versus placebo. AB - We present a double-blind trial in which a pulsed infrared beam was compared with a placebo in the treatment of myofascial pain in the cervical region. The patients were submitted to 12 sessions on alternate days to a total energy dose of 5 J each. At each session, the four most painful muscular trigger points and five bilateral homometameric acupuncture points were irradiated. Those in the placebo group submitted to the same number of sessions following an identical procedure, the only difference being that the laser apparatus was nonoperational. Pain was monitored using the Italian version of the McGill pain questionnaire and the Scott-Huskisson visual analogue scale. The results show a pain attenuation in the treated group and a statistically significant difference between the two groups of patients, both at the end of therapy and at the 3-month follow-up examination. PMID- 2520417 TI - Epidural fentanyl by continuous infusion for relief of postoperative pain. AB - Data from the charts of 40 patients in whom a continuous epidural infusion of fentanyl had been used to effect postoperative pain relief were retrospectively reviewed. Of these patients, 39 out of 40 (97.5%) reported adequate analgesia at an average fentanyl infusion rate of 1.3 micrograms/kg/h. After discharge from the postanesthesia recovery room, each patient was sent to a general medical surgical nursing floor with standard orders for medications to be administered as required. The overall incidence of side effects was low, and, in particular, respiratory depression was not noted. In our experience, this analgesia technique is safe, effective, and could be readily introduced into most community hospital settings. PMID- 2520420 TI - A controlled trial of the treatment of migraine by acupuncture. AB - A randomised controlled trial comparing true and sham acupuncture was conducted on 30 patients suffering from chronic migraine. Diary measures of headache and medication intake were recorded throughout the study, and measures of headache quality, anxiety, and pain behaviour were taken. The credibility of the true and sham treatment procedures was also assessed. True acupuncture was significantly more effective than the control procedure in reducing the pain of migraine headache. Posttreatment reductions in pain scores and medication of 43 and 38%, respectively, were recorded in the true acupuncture group and were maintained at 4-month and 1-year follow-up. PMID- 2520421 TI - Norepinephrine in reflex sympathetic dystrophy: an hypothesis. AB - Reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD) usually occurs in an individual who has been experiencing significant personal stress, a state associated with increased discharge of norepinephrine (NE) from perivascular postganglionic sympathetic neurons. RSD is often precipitated by this sequence: traumatic arterial spasm, regional ischemia, neurogenic inflammation, and ischemic/edematous damage to membranes of preterminal perivascular nociceptive neurons. In the natural repair of these membranes, it is suggested that adrenoceptors appear and are ordinarily transitory; but in RSD, they are retained by the increased adjacent NE. This process delays further healing, produces pain, and releases inflammatory substances, resulting in interacting pathophysiologic vicious cycles. PMID- 2520422 TI - Evaluation of a brief chronic pain management program: effects and limitations. AB - The short- and long-term efficacy of a multidisciplinary pain management program was evaluated in a group of 35 chronic pain patients. At posttreatment, patients reported lower pain levels, more up-time, less medication consumption, an increase in positive cognitions about pain, and more (psychologically oriented) active coping. At follow-up, treatment gains were only partly maintained. A theoretical model regarding the impact of the treatment program was discussed. Plans for future efforts to enhance transfer and maintenance of therapeutic benefits were presented. PMID- 2520424 TI - Effect of high-frequency vibration on experimental pain threshold in young women when applied to areas of different size. AB - The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of high-frequency vibration when applied to two areas of different size. Subjects were 30 right-handed Caucasian women, aged 19-38 years, with a negative history of upper extremity dysfunction. The experimental cutaneous pain threshold was determined by stimulating the skin over the pisiform bone on the palmar surface of the hand. Pain threshold measurements were taken before, during, and 2 and 5 min after vibration. Group A received vibration to an area 12.5 cm2 on the ulnar aspect of the palm of the hand 1 cm distal to the pisiform bone. Group B received vibration to an area 25 cm2, also on the ulnar aspect of the palm of the hand. Results of the mixed design analysis of variance performed on the mean pain thresholds indicate that there was no significant main effect for group (size of area vibrated), p greater than 0.05, or interaction effect between group by trial (size of area vibrated and time of pain threshold measurement), p greater than 0.05. There was a significant main effect for trial (time of pain threshold measurement), p less than 0.001. Pain threshold values were greatest for both groups during the period of vibration. PMID- 2520423 TI - The problem of psychiatric diagnosis for the pain patient in the general hospital. AB - Because of the difficulty in applying psychiatric diagnostic nomenclature to the problem of pain in the medical setting, medical and surgical inpatients referred for a psychiatric consultation with pain as a presenting complaint (N = 167) are compared with "nonpain" patients (N = 1,634). "Pain" patients were more often male (p less than 0.05), had additional presenting problems of coping with their illness (p less than 0.0001), drug misuse and abuse (p less than 0.0001), and terminal illness (p less than 0.0001); evidenced less severity of psychiatric impairment (p less than 0.05); received different treatment recommendations; and were more likely to be assigned less frequently employed DSM-III psychiatric diagnoses than those most commonly found in consultation populations. However, these diagnoses were nonspecific for the problem of pain and provided minimal information about the nature of the pain. Enhancements of the diagnostic classification systems that would better address the nature of the psychiatric disorders associated with pain are presented. PMID- 2520426 TI - Memories of pain: comparison of "worst pain ever" experienced by senior citizens and college students. AB - A total of 124 senior citizens were compared with 99 college students for their memory of worst pain experience and the action they undertook to deal with that experience. Seniors recalled very recent pain experiences, as did the students. There were major differences in their description of the worst pain experience and also how they had their pain problems dealt with. Implications of these findings are discussed. PMID- 2520425 TI - Objective documentation of musculoskeletal pain syndrome by pressure algometry during thiopentone sodium (Pentothal) anesthesia. AB - Work and injury related musculoskeletal pain is often complicated by psychological and medicolegal factors that obscure the validity of the pain presentation. Pressure algometry and stretching during thiopentone sodium (Pentothal) anesthesia was studied in 45 cases of musculoskeletal injury. A total of 40 cases were determined as genuine, organic pain, four cases were negative (i.e., nonorganic pain), and one case was equivocal. In unilateral pain cases, a right to left pressure threshold difference of 2.0 kg/cm2 predicted 94% of true organic pain cases and 100% of cases at a pressure threshold of 1.5 kg/cm2 if combined with stretching. Results of stretching painful areas correlated highly with pressure threshold assessments. PMID- 2520427 TI - Extension of pain relief beyond the operating room. AB - Physicians have in their armamentaria of drugs and techniques sufficient methods of relieving postoperative pain to maintain an analgesic state in postsurgical patients. The extent of the problem, and the options available, are discussed and described. PMID- 2520428 TI - The role of intrathecal opiates in the management of acute pain. AB - This article reviews the literature and describes clinical methods of providing analgesia for acute pain using epidural and intrathecal (spinal) opiates. The mechanism of action of these drugs, their basic pharmacology and spinal pharmacodynamics, and useful drugs and dosages are presented. The side effects of these drugs when administered by injection and possible ways to diminish their incidence and severity are discussed. A clinical protocol for the dosage and selection of these drugs is included. PMID- 2520430 TI - Acute pain services in a community hospital. AB - The development of an acute pain service in a community hospital is described. A plan of operation is proposed, including accurate record maintenance to avoid complications. Results are presented on over 10,000 patients treated by the acute pain service. PMID- 2520429 TI - Acute pain services: an academic asset. AB - Optimal care of surgical patients includes effective control of incisional pain. Attention is beginning to be focused on new in-hospital services created to improve the management of postoperative pain. Additional information regarding the organization and operation of this type of service, especially in the framework of a university hospital, is presented. The specific roles of an academic anesthesiologist involved in acute pain management are: to provide leadership by the development of effective services, to clarify through research optimal treatments, to train future practitioners in the management of acute pain, and to serve as a consultant for improving pain control for the whole medical community. PMID- 2520431 TI - Management of acute pain in pediatric patients. AB - Children often do not express pain in terms that are easily understood by adults. Distraction by parents or other factors may address the emotional component of pediatric pain, leading caregivers to assume that no physical pain exists. This review of acute pain management in children examines traditional practices as well as recent developments in acute pain management in infants and children. PMID- 2520432 TI - Current and future trends in acute pain management. AB - The rationale for improving analgesic therapy is presented. After reviewing the role of drug pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic variability in determining the quality of pain relief, newer developments in acute pain management are described: newer opioid and nonopioid analgesic drugs; alternative drug delivery systems; nonpharmacologic approaches, use of combination analgesic therapy. Finally, several possible future research trends in acute pain management are discussed. PMID- 2520433 TI - A word of caution in acute pain management. AB - Within acute pain management, as within any rapidly expanding field of therapeutic endeavor, novel treatment modalities may on occasion overreach their scientific foundations. In general, a cautionary theme is expressed regarding the utilization of various therapies, lest their overzealous clinical implementation jeopardizes the advancement of this highly promising field. With regard to demand mode opioid therapeutics in particular, several areas in need of corroborative or elucidative research have been delineated. The subject of dosing for acute pain conditions with opiates via the epidural route versus intravenous opioid administration is discussed from the perspectives of practicality and risk/benefit assignments. The advisability and means of using demand-mode techniques in order to resolve the central issue of inherent benefits of opioid administration via one route or another is also presented. PMID- 2520434 TI - Sufentanil and alfentanil pattern of consumption during patient-controlled analgesia: a comparison with morphine. AB - Pattern of drug consumption and side effects of sufentanil and alfentanil were compared to morphine, using "on-demand" patient-controlled analgesia (PCA). After a non-narcotic general anesthetic, a bolus dose of the narcotic was given intravenously towards the end of surgery. PCA was started in the recovery room. Data were retrieved postoperatively for a total of 24 h. Results showed a wide range of pattern of drug consumption and uniform acceptance of therapy by the nurses and the patients in all the groups. The frequency of use of incremental doses was greater than 2-2.5-fold for the sufentanil and alfentanil groups, respectively, compared with morphine. The bolus dose of the narcotics failed to achieve adequate analgesia for 2 h for morphine and sufentanil and for 6 h for alfentanil. Overall patients were most sedated with morphine and least sedated with sufentanil. At the time intervals sampled, there was a higher incidence of oxygen desaturation--less less than 95% with morphine and alfentanil, compared with sufentanil. There was a similar incidence of nausea in all the groups. Further study is needed to determine precisely the best dose regimens for sufentanil and alfentanil, especially in reference to optimum loading doses. Sufentanil appears to be a promising drug for PCA use. PMID- 2520436 TI - The neurobiology of pain and its modulation. AB - Recent research advances indicate that specialized neural pathways are involved in the encoding of pain sensations and that these pathways are sensitive to changes in stimulus features, such as intensity, quality, duration, and location. It has also been established that there are three major families of opioid peptides in the brain: the enkephalins, the dynorphins, and the endorphins. In addition to these opioid peptides, other neurochemicals such as serotonin and norepinephrine play a role in the modulation of signals related to tissue damage. These advances in research are being used to develop improved methods for the control of acute and chronic pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs suppress noxious signals by reducing the sensitization of peripheral nociceptors. Opioid drugs are administered into the membranes surrounding the spinal cord to provide long-lasting pain relief. Peripherally acting opioid drugs may represent a new functional class of analgesics devoid of the undesirable side effects of centrally acting opioids. Tricyclic antidepressant drugs are used in the treatment of neuropathic pain, based on their effects on noradrenergic and serotoninergic pathways in the central nervous system. PMID- 2520435 TI - Patient-controlled analgesia for acute pain. AB - An updated review of patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) for acute pain relief in the postoperative period is presented. The technique, becoming more and more popular with patients, surgeons, and nurses, is undergoing numerous clinical trials under a variety of clinical protocols that are currently being reviewed. Benefits found with PCA include the fact that it is individualized therapy, allowing optimum drug titration; it decreases a patient's anxiety in the postoperative period; and it is a safer and more efficient technique of acute pain relief than conventional therapy. However, PCA does have its logistic and medical limitations, which may make its implementation sometimes difficult. Contraindications to the technique and most current equipment in use are listed herein. Clinical experience with PCA at Georgetown University Medical Center has provided, as has been the case elsewhere, data showing the superiority of the technique and its wide acceptance as part of the Acute Pain Service. The anesthesiologist plays a vital role in coordinating the various people and aspects involved in PCA for postoperative pain relief. PMID- 2520437 TI - The assessment and treatment of pain in the emergency room. AB - A broad spectrum of painful conditions presents to the modern emergency center (EC). The three most common categories are acute, self-limited disorders; chronic medical or surgical syndromes with acute exacerbation; and psychic pain syndromes in which the etiology cannot be easily ascertained. Many factors may differentiate pain from suffering, and physicians should educate patients not only about the nature of their condition and its prognosis, but also about anticipated discomfort. Clinical concerns in the EC include physicians' tendency to undertreat or even ignore pain, the need for appropriate but flexible dosage schedules, and physicians' concern about masking important signs and symptoms. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are currently the safest and most effective group of oral analgesics. Important factors for drug selection include efficacy, dosage, lack of side effects, and cost. Two special groups of patients, those with psychic pain syndromes and those with drug-seeking behavior, can create problems for the physician. Patients with chronic pain syndromes need special follow-up but do not benefit from additional analgesic drug therapy. Patients who seek and abuse drugs can be difficult to identify, may have true underlying medical pathology, and should not be given narcotic prescriptions. PMID- 2520438 TI - The management of pain in orthopaedics. AB - The three general methods of treating pain are pharmacologic, physical and psychological. The goal of medical management of the patient with pain and inflammation is to relieve these symptoms with minimal side effects and inconvenience. Pain associated with inflammation may be relieved with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) including aspirin. All NSAIDs relieve pain and stiffness in a similar manner; their primary action appears to be the inhibition of the cyclo-oxygenase system in the arachidonic acid cascade. When prescribing NSAIDs for orthopaedic pain and inflammation, it seems sensible to start with aspirin because of its low cost and safety at analgesic doses. However, if safety and low incidence of side effects are the most important factors in determining appropriate therapy, newer NSAIDs such as ketoprofen will be preferred. The relief of pain is an important aspect of postoperative care. Parenteral and oral opiates serve as the standard against which other therapies for severe pain are compared. When pain cannot be adequately controlled with intramuscular or subcutaneous opiates, intravenous opiates controlled by the patient (patient-controlled analgesia) are often useful. Relatively small doses of epidural or intrathecal opiates can also be used to achieve postoperative pain relief. Thus, treatment for orthopaedic pain begins with NSAIDs, followed by an oral opiate combined with acetaminophen, aspirin, or another NSAID. If these regimens are ineffective, oral opiates followed by parenteral opiates may be tried. PMID- 2520439 TI - Psychiatric aspects of pain. AB - Healing or successful intervention usually leads to the resolution of pain. However, in some patients biologic or psychologic symptoms associated with pain persist despite treatment or apparent healing. In cases in which the etiology is not known, persistent pain is categorized as a clinical syndrome known as "chronic pain." Organic, psychologic, and socioenvironmental factors contribute to the development of chronic pain. Major organic illnesses leading to chronic pain include headaches, back problems, arthritis, and cancer. Significant psychological reactions occur in many pain patients, with depression being the most common. Pain is often seen in patients with psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, and somatization, as well as in substance abusers. Before successful management can begin, the major etiologic factors and sequelae of the chronic pain syndrome must be understood. Antidepressants, neuroleptics, anticonvulsants, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and hydroxyzine have been proven effective in the treatment of pain syndromes. The treatment of patients who present with chronic pain must be individualized based on a comprehensive understanding of the factors underlying the chronic pain syndrome of each patient. PMID- 2520440 TI - Pharmacologic management of bone pain in the cancer patient. AB - Cancer patients may experience acute or chronic pain caused by tumor infiltration of pain-sensitive structures or related to surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Acute bone pain, with or without associated neurologic deficits resulting from tumor metastasis to bone and contiguous neural structures (e.g., large peripheral nerve trunks or the spinal cord), is a common cause of intractable pain in cancer patients. Most often, treatment of bone pain involves the concomitant use of focal radiation therapy and analgesic drugs, especially steroids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (usually in combination with opioids), and adjuvant analgesic agents such as levodopa and calcitonin. However, pharmacologic therapy is not always efficacious and may have significant side effects. Less commonly, invasive therapies, such as resection of vertebral body tumor with spinal reconstruction or pituitary ablation and intraventricular opioid administration (for diffuse bone pain), are offered. In this article I discuss current approaches to the management of pain in cancer patients, emphasizing current hypotheses on the pathogenesis of bone pain and the rationale for its pharmacologic treatment. PMID- 2520441 TI - Common painful sports injuries: assessment and treatment. AB - The increasing participation in organized sports has been paralleled by an increasing number of sports injuries. An exact diagnosis of the injury and an understanding of the mechanisms of injury are essential for proper management, relief of pain, and restoration of function. The two mechanisms of injury are single-impact macrotrauma and repetitive microtrauma. Overuse injuries, which result from repetitive microtrauma, are caused by the interaction of a number of risk factors. Determining the etiological factors present in a given injury is essential for proper management and prevention of overuse injuries. The roles of non-narcotic analgesics, muscle relaxants, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in aiding recovery and restoration of function in sports injuries have been extensively studied. NSAIDs, in particular, have been demonstrated in clinical and laboratory studies to speed recovery from overuse sports injury. Their place in acute sports injuries due to single-impact macrotrauma, however, is more controversial. PMID- 2520442 TI - Treatment of headache. AB - Headache is the most common complaint encountered in clinical practice. Approximately 45 million people in the United States experience chronic headaches. The management of migraine headache involves both pharmacologic and nondrug therapy. Drug therapy for migraine involves the use of abortive and prophylactic agents. Abortive agents, such as ergotamine tartrate and ketoprofen, may be used to relieve the acute attack. Prophylactic therapy is focused on reducing the frequency and severity of the attacks. beta-Adrenergic blocking agents, such as propranolol, remain the primary agents for many migraine patients, although other drugs, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including ketoprofen, or calcium-channel blocking agents, such as verapamil, may be beneficial for many patients. For cluster headache and its variants, methysergide and corticosteroids are usually the drugs of choice. Patients with chronic cluster headache may achieve good results from long-term treatment with other therapies, including lithium carbonate, verapamil, and ketoprofen. PMID- 2520443 TI - Microscopic correlates of adaptive cytoprotection in an ethanol injury model. AB - The present study histologically investigated the efficacy of pretreating rat gastric mucosa with the mild irritants, 10% and 25% ethanol (EtOH), against the known damaging effects of 100% EtOH. Fasted rats received 1 ml of either water, 10% EtOH, or 25% EtOH by orogastric intubation. Fifteen minutes later, a portion of these animals was sacrificed and tissue samples of the oxyntic region of the stomach were excised and processed for quantitative histologic analysis. Remaining animals received a 1 ml oral bolus of the necrotizing agent, 100% EtOH. Five minutes later, these animals were sacrificed and tissues were prepared in a like manner. In a separate series of experiments, the aforementioned protocols were repeated, except that all animals received the prostaglandin synthetase inhibitor, indomethacin (5.0 mg/kg intraperitoneally), 30 min before administration of the mild irritant. Microscopically, the administration of water or 10% EtOH alone caused a small and comparable amount of superficial injury to the gastric mucosa. Moreover, both substances failed to induce protection in stomachs subsequently exposed to 100% EtOH. Indomethacin pretreatment did not significantly alter any of these findings. In marked contrast, 25% EtOH alone elicited a substantial degree of superficial damage to the gastric mucosa. Nevertheless it significantly reduced the depth of injury in animals subsequently challenged by 100% EtOH. Indomethacin failed to aggravate the effects of 25% EtOH alone, but partially inhibited the protective effect of this mild irritant against 100% EtOH induced damage. Our findings indicate that adaptive cytoprotection is a real phenomenon that can be demonstrated microscopically. Such protection is limited primarily to the deep mucosal layers (i.e. gastric glands), appears in part to be prostaglandin mediated and seems to require the generation of moderate surface cell damage (as occurred with 25% EtOH, but not 10% EtOH) to induce its initiation. PMID- 2520444 TI - Induction of lymph follicle formation with several mitogens and adjuvants in the mouse popliteal lymph node. AB - The formation of lymph follicles in draining popliteal nodes was investigated in young adult male mice which had been injected in the rear footpad with several mitogens and adjuvants, and killed after 3-21 days. PPD (100 micrograms-1 mg) and PHA (25-500 micrograms) induced germinal centers in association with existing follicles and mild plasmacytosis, but failed to produce new follicles in draining nodes. Endotoxin LPS (50-200 micrograms), Con A (50 micrograms-1 mg) and PWM (50 micrograms-1 mg) induced germinal centers within existing follicles and plasmacytosis, and also produced new follicles which soon developed germinal centers. Both Freund's complete and incomplete adjuvants (FCA and FICA, 25 microliters) induced virtually no germinal centers and plasmacytosis, but produced a significant number of new primary follicles. Poly (A, U) (600 micrograms) produced neither germinal centers nor plasmacytosis, and did not induce new follicles. Analysis of the distribution of lymphoid cells which had incorporated 3H-thymidine in the draining nodes at 3 days after the injection of test substances indicated that PPD, PHA, LPS, Con A and PWM preferentially stimulated in vivo the same types of lymphocytes as they do in vitro. FCA triggered lymphocyte activation in the deep cortex, whereas Poly (A, U) appeared not to stimulate lymphocytes in vivo. In further experiments, induction of lymph follicles with artificially precipitated PPD and PHA was studied. The draining nodes treated with alum-precipitated PPD or PHA were found to produce a significant number of new follicles.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2520445 TI - Endogenous sex hormone and estrogen binding activity in thyroid cancer. AB - The reactions of four anti-sex hormone (Estrone, Estradiol, Estriol and Testosterone) antisera were immunohistochemically examined in 109 cancerous and 80 normal and benign thyroid tissues. Four kinds of sex hormones were detected in the tumour cells of 61 cases (56%) of thyroid cancer and in the follicular epithelial cells of 4 cases (5%) of normal and benign thyroid tissues. Among the thyroid cancers, 54 female (61%) and 7 cases in males (33%) were positive for sex hormones. Furthermore, estrogen binding activity was screened histochemically in 36 thyroid tissues of various types, and detected not only in thyroid cancer (6/15 cases), but in normal and benign thyroid tissues (4/21 cases) as well. It was concluded that endogenous estradiol was located in thyroid cancers more frequently in females than in males and that there was estrogen binding activity in the cells of not only thyroid cancers, but also normal and benign thyroid tissues. This is the first report of the demonstration of endogenous sex hormones in thyroid cancer. PMID- 2520446 TI - Ultrastructural immunogold labelling of vimentin filaments on postembedding ultrathin sections of arachnoid villi and meningiomas. AB - An immunoelectron microscopic technique for the labelling of vimentin intermediate filaments on postembedding ultrathin sections is reported. Arachnoid villi obtained at autopsy and meningiomas at surgery were fixed in 1% paraformaldehyde for 30 minutes, embedded without postfixation in Epon-Araldite mixture and polymerized at 37 degrees C for 3 weeks. Ultrathin sections were etched in 2% KOH for 3 minutes and incubated with anti-vimentin monoclonal antibodies which were subsequently labelled with goat anti-mouse IgG coupled to colloidal golds. All of these labelling procedures were consistently performed within 4 hours. In both arachnoidal and meningioma cells, immunogolds preferentially decorated the intermediate filaments in proportion to the concentration. Very few gold particles were seen over the nucleus, Golgi zone, mitochondria and the extracellular connective tissue fibres. The present technique may be applied to the immunogold labelling of intermediate filaments on postembedding ultrathin sections. PMID- 2520447 TI - Development of the retinal tapetum lucidum of the walleye (Stizostedion vitreum vitreum). AB - The development of the retinal tapetum lucidum within the cells of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) has been investigated by both light and electron microscopy in the walleye (Stizostedion vitreum vitreum) in specimens ranging in total length from 25-140 mm. In addition changes in the arrangement of the photoreceptors (both rods and cones) in both light and dark-adaptation have also been studied. At 25 mm no evidence of a tapetum is present. At about 30 mm it makes its initial appearance as granular bodies formed within the apical smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER) cisternae of the RPE cells in the superior temporal fundus. The developing tapetum then spreads peripherally and continues to thicken in existing areas. By 90 mm it is well established throughout the fundus but always appears better developed in the superior fundus. By 125-140 mm it is essentially adult in appearance. At 60-70 mm the rods and cones begin to form bundles producing macroreceptors of 20-30 photoreceptors. In dark-adaptation the rod bundles are retracted and have one or more cone cells centrally located in each bundle, with the bundles separated from one another by melanosomes. Initially when no tapetal material is present, post-larval walleye are positively phototactic and feed on zooplankton. In the adult condition when a tapetum lucidum and large macroreceptors are present, the walleye is negatively phototactic and feeds almost exclusively on larger organisms such as other fish. PMID- 2520448 TI - Rabbit pasteurellosis: respiratory and renal pathology of control and immunized rabbits after challenge with Pasteurella multocida. AB - Gross and microscopic lesions of pasteurellosis were studied in control and immunized pasteurella-free rabbits after challenge with virulent Pasteurella multocida. Pathologic responses were compared in rabbits immunized intravenously or mucosally with P. multocida or with J5, a cross protective core LPS mutant of E. coli. All rabbits were challenged conjunctivally with approximately 2xLD50 of P. multocida. Rabbits were necropsied and examined for histopathology of the respiratory tract and kidneys. Lung lesions varied in severity depending on the duration of the disease, the route of vaccination, and the vaccine used. The most severe lung lesions occurred in rabbits vaccinated intravenously with P. multocida and challenged with the same strain. Some of these rabbits had purulent bronchopneumonia and pleuropneumonia. Lung lesions were absent or less severe in rabbits vaccinated by a mucosal (aerosol, conjunctival) route and in unvaccinated controls. In these animals there was no bronchopneumonia or pleuropneumonia, and bronchiolitis, if present, was less severe. Kidney lesions were found only in rabbits vaccinated intravenously. There was an interstitial nephritis, some collagen deposition, mononuclear cell infiltration, and a loss of tubular architecture in the cortex. Some glomeruli were affected. These results indicate that intravenous immunization contributes to the formation of lesions whereas mucosal immunization prevented lesion formation to some degree. PMID- 2520449 TI - Hyperplastic cellular components of a hemangiopericytoma. An ultrastructural study. AB - Based on ultrastructural features of cellular components of a hemangiopericytoma, hyperplastic cells are classifiable into fibroblast-like (group I), endotheloid (group II) and pericyte-like (group III) cells. The transformation of the group I cells to the group II, or to the group III cells, is pronounced in our electron micrographs and this may imply that the group I cell is the principal cell of origin in this neoplasm. The smooth muscle-like (group IV) cells comprising the media of the arteries and veins in this neoplasm may represent modified, possibly de-differentiated smooth muscle cells reacted to the neoplastic proliferation of the surrounding adventitial (group I) cells. PMID- 2520450 TI - Morphological, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural changes in dimethylnitrosamine [correction of dimenthylnitrosamine] induced liver injury. Effect of malotilate. AB - Dimethylnitrosamine (DMN) induced liver injury in rats with cell necrosis, inflammation, hemorrhages, increased collagen type III synthesis and basement membrane component laminin and collagen IV localization in perisinusoidal sites. Malotilate ingestion during DMN treatment abolished inflammation and decreased interstitial collagen deposits and vascularization. It affected clearly less DMN caused hemorrhage. When malotilate treatment was started subsequently to development of DMN-injury, it also caused decrease in inflammation, though less, as well as in collagen III, BM and fibronectin deposits. We suggest that the mode of the malotilate effect on reducing the DMN-induced fibrosis of the liver is via inhibiting the inflammation, decreased fibronectin deposition possibly also playing a role. PMID- 2520451 TI - Thymoma: a clinico pathological study of 21 cases and assessment of prognostic features. AB - This is a retrospective and comprehensive study of 21 cases of thymoma treated during a period of 30 years (1954-1984). The tumors were staged into 3 categories: stage 1 for encapsulated completely resectable tumor, stage 2 for nonresectable intrathoracic tumor and stage 3 for tumor with extrathoracic spread. According to their lymphocytic content tumors were separated into 3 groups: 1) predominantly epithelioid (PE); 2) mixed cellular (MC) and predominantly lymphocytic (PL). Incidence of recurrence and survival were correlated with various treatment modalities. The tumor occurred in all age groups with highest incidence in the fourth decade. Six cases were asymptomatic. Myasthenia gravis was present only in one case. The most important prognostic factor was the stage of the tumor. Five-year survival was 69% for stage 2 and 0% for stage 3. All 12 patients who died with evidence of residual disease had PE tumors. Lymphocytic participation might be indicative of a residual functional competence and appears to confer a more favourable prognosis. This is a tumor of uncertain malignant potential which should be excised or debulked, and staged. Post-operative radiotherapy appears to prevent recurrence and improve the prognosis in stage 2. No therapeutic benefits were seen in the stage 3 cases. The value of chemotherapy is uncertain. PMID- 2520452 TI - Structural changes in glomeruli and proteinuria in streptozotocin diabetic rats. AB - In streptozotocin induced diabetes in rats, excretion of urinary protein fractions were studied in relation to structural changes in the renal glomeruli, using light and transmission electron microscopy. After six weeks of induced diabetes only beta 1 and beta 2 plasma globulins were significantly elevated. The amount of excreted proteins and degree of glomerular changes were not proportional. In the initial stages (1-2 weeks) glomerular structural changes were very mild and were accompanied by significantly elevated proteinuria. This progressed (4-8 weeks) to moderate to prominent structural changes with intermittent proteinuria except for the fractions beta 1 & beta 2 which were elevated throughout the duration of the experiment. The amount of proteinuria was not proportional to changes in the plasma protein levels. The following conclusions may be made: 1) The mild early glomerular abnormalities seem to be mainly due to acute metabolic disturbances. 2) An early indication of diabetic nephropathy is provided not only by albuminuria, but may also be an elevated excretion of beta-globulin fractions. 3) Decrease of albuminuria in the later stages of diabetes may be related to the deposition of albumin as a basement membrane-like material in the mesangium. PMID- 2520453 TI - Effect of dicarboxylic (C6 and C9) acids on a human squamous carcinoma cell line in culture. AB - In tissue culture, azelaic acid (C9) has been shown to have an anti-proliferative and cytotoxic effect on human and murine malignant melanocytes, with inhibition of mitochondrial oxido-reductase enzymes and DNA synthesis, and damage to mitochondria. Recent reports of effects on differentiation of normal keratocytes have led to the present study of its effects on a squamous carcinoma cell line. Cells were exposed to single doses of disodium salts of azelaic (C9(2)Na) and adipic (C6(2)Na) acids at concentrations of 10(-2)M and 5 x 10(-2)M for 48 hrs. Only C9(2)Na at 5 x 10(-2) M for 4 hrs., and longer, significantly affected proliferation, and the cells exhibited massive swelling of mitochondria with loss of cristae. The results further confirm the probable value of azelaic acid as a general anti-tumoral agent rather than a specifically melanocytotoxic one. They could justify clinical studies on the effect of topical azelaic acid therapy on squamous cell carcinoma in vivo. PMID- 2520454 TI - SEM and TEM study of caprine superficial lymph nodes. AB - The splenic capsule was characteristic, having dense connective tissue. Smooth muscle cells and unmyelinated nerve fibers were observed. Smooth muscle cells were found to be independent of blood vessels in both the capsule and trabeculae. Littoral cells separated the capsule from the subcapsular sinus. Highly branched reticular cells were associated with the sinuses. The cellular components (large and small lymphocytes, plasma and mast cells, and macrophages) of the cortex and medulla were observed and described. No Golgi apparatus was observed in small lymphocytes and two surface types (rough and smooth) were observed on lymphocytes. Russell bodies were not observed in plasma cells. The paracortical postcapillary venule had cuboidal endothelium with microvilli. Two shapes of lymphocytes were seen associated with the endothelium of postcapillary venules. PMID- 2520455 TI - Effects of chronic alcoholism on the amygdaloid complex. A study in human and rats. AB - The effect of chronic alcoholism on the amygdaloid complex was studied in 16 humans and 10 rats. Eighteen patients whose death was due to extraneural causes were selected as controls with 3 rats. The alcoholic cases, in addition to the data collected in their clinical history, showed, microscopically confirmed, liver cirrhosis or steatosis. The alcoholics and controls were divided into 4 groups: 35-44 years old (4 cases), 45-54 (5 cases), 55-64 (5 cases) over 65 (2 alcoholics and 4 controls). The alcoholic ingestion in the rats (Wistar, 10 weeks old) was 3 ml at a concentration of 30% in water solution administered by esophagic intubation, for 48 (5 rats) or 58 weeks (5 rats). To judge the state of the amygdaloid nuclei, a neuronal count and caryometry were carried out. The numerical data obtained in this study were analyzed statistically. The results in humans have paralleled those obtained in rats and the behaviour of the different nuclei of the amygdala was uniform and can be summarized as follows: 1) ethanol provoked a prominent and early loss of neurons, and 2) the remainder of non affected neurons did not react in order to compensate for this neuronal loss. PMID- 2520456 TI - Down regulation of hypertrophied follicular cell volume in thyroid hyperplastic gland. AB - In the present study, changes in thyroid follicular cell volume and its regulation have been investigated during the early involution of a hyperplastic goitre. Male Wistar rats were administered an iodine deficient diet for 6 months with propylthiouracil (PTU, 0.15%) during the last two months. At the end of iodine deficiency (day 0), some rats were killed and the others received a normal iodine diet. These rats were killed after different periods of iodine refeeding. Thyroid follicular cell volume was very high in hyperplastic gland whereas thyroid protein concentration was low. Thyroid follicular cell volume quickly decreased when rats were normally iodine refed, whereas thyroid protein concentration increased. Electron microscopal observations showed that thyroid follicular cells retained their endocrine aspect in hyperplastic state and throughout the iodine refeeding period. Using concomitant stereological and biochemical techniques, it is shown that the amount of cellular iodide and an unknown iodinated compound strongly increased during the early iodine refeeding. Plasma TSH was high on day 0 and remained at this level until day 8 whereas plasma T3 and T4 were low on day 0 and remained at this low level until day 4. The present data show that the involution of thyroid follicular cell volume is induced by iodide and mediated by an iodinated compound at least in the initial phase, and is independent of plasma TSH, T3, T4, so indicating the involvement of a thyroid autoregulatory mechanism. These changes in cell volume may be of importance in ion transport, i.e. in the metabolism of thyroid follicular cell during the early involution of the hyperplastic goitre. PMID- 2520457 TI - Protein S-100 immunostaining as a diagnostic tool for DMBA-induced melanotic lesions. AB - In the present study we demonstrate immunohistochemically the presence of S-100 protein in numerous melanotic and amelanotic lesions (benign, premalignant and malignant) induced in albino guinea-pigs on topical application of the carcinogen. Positive staining was also present in all their amelanotic metastases. We reiterate the value of this stain in the diagnosis of melanomas, in particular amelanotic melanomas. PMID- 2520458 TI - The morphology of the basal lamina and periepithelial collagen during growth and branching of the embryonic lung of mice (day 14 to 16). AB - In order to be able to interpret the developmental mechanism of the epithelial branching pattern, we investigated lung development of mouse embryos of gestational days 14 to 16 electron microscopically. Various fixation techniques (Karnovsky, tannic acid, ruthenium red) were employed. Four regions could be distinguished in a growing and branching epithelial bud: 1) the epithelial tube before the site of branching; 2) the actual site and gap of branching; 3) the already formed part of the new buds and 4) the actual leading, i.e., the growing tip. Regions 1 and 3 were characterized by a continuous basal lamina and a more (1) or less (3) thick sheath of accompanying collagen. The site of branching (2) showed a pronounced folding of the basal lamina to which numerous collagenous fibrils were attached. At the distal, i.e., growing site (4) the basal lamina was characterized by numerous interruptions; accompanying collagen was missing. Immunomorphological investigations of regions 1 to 3 revealed all components of a basal lamina and collagen types I, III and V and fibronectin at the border between epithelium and connective tissue. However, this amount was clearly reduced at the growing tip, and collagen type I was missing. These findings help to understand and elucidate the importance of the mesenchyme for the growth and branching process and the development of the branching pattern. PMID- 2520459 TI - In vitro short-term effects of SMS 201-995, bromocriptine and TRH on growth hormone cell morphology from human pituitary adenomas. AB - This study reports, by immunocytochemistry, ultrastructure and morphometry, the in vitro effects of SMS 201-995 (10 nM), bromocriptine (1 microM) and TRH (10 microM) on the morphology of cells from two acromegalic patient adenomas containing immunoreactive growth hormone (GH). By electron microscopy, one tumor presented numerous large secretory granules (densely granulated growth hormone cell adenoma) while they were scarce and small in the other (sparsely granulated growth hormone cell adenoma); fibrous bodies could be seen in the specimen and in vitro. In the sparsely granulated growth hormone cell adenoma, TRH produced an increase in endoplasmic reticulum surface density compared to the other cultures. Bromocriptine increased the number and decreased the secretory granule diameters, while SMS 201-995 produced no significant changes in the same time. In the densely granulated growth hormone cell adenoma, the three substances increased the number of granules. TRH increased the mitochondrial volume density and endoplasmic reticulum surface density (with respect to the other cultures). SMS 201-995 decreased the mitochondrial and lysosome volume densities and endoplasmic reticulum surface density. We conclude that 1) TRH produces in cultured cells of both adenoma types an increase in cellular activity. 2) In cultured sparsely granulated growth hormone adenoma cells, bromocriptine has a stronger inhibitory effect than SMS 201-995. In cultured densely granulated growth hormone cells adenoma, bromocriptine has smaller inhibitory effect than SMS 201-995. PMID- 2520460 TI - Pineal gland in rats with 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene-induced mammary tumors subjected to manipulations known as enhancers of pineal actions. AB - The ultrastructure of pinealocytes was studied in rats with 7,12 dimethylbenz(a)anthracene-induced mammary tumors which were subjected to experimental manipulations known as enhancers of pineal actions (anosmia, underfeeding or cold exposure). In these animals we found: (I)--more nuclei with deep nuclear invaginations; (II)--a large number of cytoplasmic organelles, including lipid droplets, myeloid bodies, synaptic ribbons and lysosomes; (III)- numerous degenerative changes. In general, we found an increase in structural features related to pineal photoneuroendocrine activity. Our results indicate that pineal-dependent inhibition of neoplastic growth induced by these experimental manipulations, previously reported, can be mediated through an increase in pineal metabolic activity. PMID- 2520462 TI - IBL-like T cell lymphoma expressing monoclonal gammopathy (macroglobulinemia) in the serum. AB - A case of IBL-like T cell lymphoma with serum monoclonal gammopathy was reported. A 58-year-old woman, who had suffered from heart failure, was admitted because of asthma attack, fever and lymphadenopathy. Leucopenia with a small amount of atypical lymphocytes was detected. Serum analysis showed monoclonal elevation of IgM-kappa (M-protein) and hyperviscosity. Urinary Bence-Jones protein was detected. Lymph node biopsy revealed the disappearance of normal structure and proliferation of T cells with pale cells which characterized IBL-like T cell lymphoma. Immunocytochemistry revealed the pale cells to bear T cell markers (MT 1, CD 5, CD 8 or CD 4) and IgM-positive cell distribution. Tonsilar biopsy showed the infiltration of atypical lymphoids and pale cells. Bone marrow biopsy showed moderate lymphoplasmacytoid proliferation with lymph follicles. Clinical data and serum analysis suggested macroglobulinemia. Additional lymph node biopsy was performed and revealed IBL-like T cell lymphoma. IBL-like T cell lymphoma is characterized by polyclonal hypergammaglobulinemia. The present case probably occurred initially as IBL-like T cell lymphoma and lymphoplasmacytoid cell proliferation might have followed due to an excess of CD 4+ cells. PMID- 2520461 TI - Ultrastructure and light microscopical study of a Leydig cell tumor of the testis associated with bilateral gynaecomastia. AB - Light and electronmicroscopic study of a Leydig cell testicular tumor in an 18 year-old male is presented. Bilateral gynaecomastia and normal hormonal blood levels were found. Emphasis on the diagnostic value of electronmicroscopy is remarked upon, based on the following ultrastructural characteristics of the cells; 1) Ovoid shaped nuclei with ondulating contours and dispersed and homogeneous chromatin, 2) Rich agranular endoplasmic reticulum with frequent special modifications, such as membranous whorls with a central cytoplasmic mass or lipid droplets, 3) Numerous mitochondria with occasional tubular cristae, 4) Numerous lipid vacuoles. Other structures also identified in this tumor are Reinke crystalloids, cytoplasmic microbodies, myelin figures, gap-type junctional complexes and paracrystalline inclusions of Payer type E, which are less common. PMID- 2520463 TI - Photoreceptor fine structure in the bobtail goanna (Tiliqua rugosa). AB - The fine structure of the retinal photoreceptors has been studied by light and electron microscopy in the bobtail goanna (Tiliqua rugosa) an Australian diurnal lizard. The photoreceptors in this species are readily divisible into rods or cones based on morphological criteria. Single cones are the dominate cell type with a cone:rod ratio of about 80:1. No multiple photoreceptors were present nor was a photoreceptor mosiac observed. Cones are large cells with a short, tapering outer segment. The inner segment contains a large apical oil droplet, an ellipsoid of mitochondria and a prominent paraboloid of glycogen. Rods are slender cells with a longer non-tapering outer segment. Rod inner segments display an ellipsoid but no oil droplet or paraboloid. The nuclei of cones are large and vesicular while rod nuclei are smaller and displayed more heterochromatin. The synaptic pedicle of cones is larger than the spherule of rods. Both rods and cones displayed both invaginated (ribbon) and conventional synapses with the large cones having more synaptic sites. As only light-adapted specimens were examined it is uncertain if either rods or cones are capable of retinomotor responses. PMID- 2520464 TI - Fine structure of the conus papillaris in the bobtail goanna (Tiliqua rugosa). AB - The structure of the conus papillaris in an Australian lizard, the bobtail goanna (Tiliqua rugosa) was investigated by light and electron microscopy. In this strongly diurnal species, the conus papillaris consists of a heavily vascularized and pigmented, finger-like structure about 1 mm in diameter and 3-4 mm in length. It is situated over the optic nerve head and projects into the vitreous chamber. Within the conus are numerous capillaries and larger blood vessels, melanocytes and occasional mast cells. Many of the capillaries display prominent luminal and abluminal microfolds. Other capillaries show no microfolds while still others display an intermediate number of microfolds. The larger blood vessels are usually indistinguishable as to being either arterioles or venules. The endothelial cells of all blood vessels show a population of cytoplasmic granules. The melanocytes are large pleomorphic cells usually rich in microfilaments. Unmyelinated nerve processes are plentiful within the conus and the Schwann cells enclosing these nerve fibres are occasionally seen to be pigmented. The morphology of the conus papillaris indicates a heavy involvement in the transport of materials. It is considered to be homologous to the pecten oculi of the avian eye; to the falciform process of the teleost eye; to the supraretinal vessels of amphibians and to the intraretinal vessels of the mammalian eye. PMID- 2520465 TI - Retinal pigment epithelial fine structure in the bobtail goanna (Tiliqua rugosa). AB - The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), the choriocapillaris and Bruch's membrane (complexus basalis) have been studied by light and electron microscopy in the bobtail goanna (Tiliqua rugosa) an Australian diurnal lizard. The RPE consists of a single layer of cuboidal cells which display very deep and tortuous basal (choroidal) infoldings as well as numerous apical (vitreal) processes which interdigitate with the photoreceptor cells. The lateral cell borders are relatively smooth and joined by basally located tight junctions. Internally smooth endoplasmic reticulum is abundant while rough endoplasmic reticulum is not. The RPE cell nucleus is large and vesicular and basally located in the light adapted state. Polysomes, mitochondria and myeloid bodies are present and widely distributed. Melanosomes are plentiful in the apical region of the epithelial cells in light-adaptation. Bruch's membrane is pentalaminate with the basal lamina of the choriocapillaris being exceptionally thick. The choriocapillaris is a single layer of large-caliber capillaries with thin but only moderately fenestrated endothelium. Numerous dense granules are always present within these endothelial cells. PMID- 2520466 TI - The value of conjunctival biopsy in childhood cystinosis. AB - Cystinosis is frequently presented with cystine storage in the cornea and conjunctiva, and the diagnosis can be established by slit-lamp examination. It can also be confirmed by electron microscopy of a conjunctival biopsy. The present paper reports on a 16-month-old boy with Fanconi's syndrome, in whom the slit-lamp examination did not show crystal deposits of cystine in the conjunctiva. The ultrastructural study of the conjunctival biopsy demonstrated polygonal crystals within double membrane-limited organelles located in fibroblasts. Similar crystals were subsequently found in a kidney biopsy. We therefore think that conjunctival biopsy is a valuable diagnostic tool prior to performing renal biopsy, even in cases with negative findings by ophthalmologic examination. PMID- 2520467 TI - Regional adaptation of Muller cells in the chick retina. A Golgi and electron microscopical study. AB - We report the morphological differences of Muller cells in relation to their topography, using the Golgi method. Muller cells in the central retina are long and slender, with numerous inner prolongations. In the peripheral retina, the morphology of the Muller cells adapts to the reduced thickness of the retinal layers. In this zone, they are short and have thick inner prolongations which end in a large foot in the internal limiting membrane. In the optic disc margin, Muller cells have a particular morphology characterized by thick, arched prolongations that in general form a glial network between the retina and optic nerve. The ultrastructure of these cells is also described. The results are discussed with respect to the nature of Muller cells. PMID- 2520468 TI - Surface morphology and ultrastructure of normal and cyclic hematopoietic canine bone marrow in long-term liquid cultures. AB - Long-term liquid cultures of normal and cyclic hematopoietic (CH) dog bone marrow produce committed granulocyte-macrophage progenitor cells (CFU-GM) and differentiated granulocytes for several weeks. Analysis of in situ fixed cultures or of cells harvested from the culture supernatants revealed that the cells had ultrastructure and surface morphology characteristic of immature and mature myeloid cells. The surface morphologies of adherent cells from both normal and CH dogs were similar. The characteristic abnormalities previously reported in neutrophils obtained from CH dogs were not observed in neutrophils obtained from long-term marrow cultures of CH dogs. These results indicate that the cellular abnormalities in the neutrophils of CH dogs may be secondary manifestations of the disease and are not inherent to the pathogenesis of the hematopoietic cells. PMID- 2520469 TI - A morphological study on the reproductive organs as a possible cause of developmental abnormalities in diabetic NOD mice. AB - The reproductive organs in non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice were histopathologically studied, in order to elucidate the relationships between developmental abnormalities, such as diminished rates of implantation and viable embryos, and structural changes in the reproductive organs. NOD mice with (NOD-DM) and without (NOD-N) diabetes mellitus and ICR mice were compared. The severity of histopathological changes in the pancreas and in the liver were used as parameters which indicated the severity of diabetes itself and of the secondary metabolic disorder. NOD-DM mice exhibited uterine weight loss, accumulation of lipids in luminal and glandular epithelium, atrophies of the endometrium and myometrium and a decrease in the number of muscle cell layers. They also showed a high concentration of lipid droplets in ovarian granulosa cells, atretic follicles and atrophy and lack of lipids in ovarian stroma cells. The severity of these structural changes in the reproductive organs corresponded to those of the changes in the pancreas and the liver. The structural alterations in the ovary suggested disorder in oocyte maturation. The structural changes in the uterus appeared to be related to the decrease in the ratios of implantation and of viable embryos at post-implantation stage. The present studies suggest that the impaired structural environment together with the metabolic environment caused the abnormal development seen, for example, in the oocyte maturation, and at the implantation and post-implantation stage of diabetic mice. It also caused alterations in their hormonal environment. PMID- 2520470 TI - Ultrastructure of the chronically vagotomised atrial myocardium in the monkey (Macaca fascicularis). AB - The ultrastructure of the atrial myocardium in the monkey (Macaca fascicularis) was studied after bilateral cervical vagotomy and survival times of 100, 175 and 367 days. Changes were observed in the nucleus and the cytoplasm of the myocyte. Sequestered within the nuclei of the affected myocytes were cytoplasmic organelles and inclusions. In the late stages, there was a tendency towards condensation and margination of the heterochromatin. Changes in the cytoplasm included increased glycogen, mitochondrial degeneration and myofibrillar disorganisation and degeneration. There was increased collagen and mononuclear cell infiltration in the extracellular space in the later stages. This study has shown that the long term structural integrity of the atrial myocyte depends on an intact vagal innervation. The survival of the monkey after chronic bilateral vagotomy suggests that this nonhuman primate is a suitable model for functional studies of the parasympathetically denervated heart. PMID- 2520471 TI - Early human trophoblast cell cultures. A morphological and immunocytochemical study. AB - Rapidly growing cytotrophoblasts were isolated from early human chorionic villi and the Papanicolaou method was used to characterize their cytology and transformation into syncytiotrophoblasts. Cytotrophoblasts fused and formed binucleated cells or mononucleated intermediate cells. Syncytial cells were formed by fusion of small cytotrophoblasts or intermediate cells and cytotrophoblasts. Glycosaminoglycans were produced in cytotrophoblasts and released extracellularly. Here they were accumulated and/or diffused into a continuous layer covering the cells. Glycosaminoglycans in syncytial cells were contained in well defined membranous sacs. Cytotrophoblasts only grown beyond confluence differentiated into villi with a villus-like histology. PMID- 2520472 TI - The histopathology of clinically-important metals. A review. PMID- 2520473 TI - Ultrastructural and immunoelectron microscopic studies on infiltrating mononuclear cells in lymphocytic submandibulitis in NOD mice. AB - The ultrastructural relations of the infiltrating mononuclear cells to the parenchymal tissues were studied in the submandibular gland of the female non obese diabetic (NOD) mouse. In addition, the phenotype of mononuclear cells infiltrating the submandibular gland has been determined by light and electron microscopy by using monoclonal antibodies against T-cell subsets (Thy1.2, Lyt1, Lyt2). Ultrastructurally, lymphoid cells were frequently observed around and in the acini and ducts. Some of the lymphoid cells observed in the acini and ducts were irregular in shape and sometimes sent spike-like projections into acinar and ductal cells. Immunohistochemical study demonstrated that Thy1.2+ cells were predominant among the infiltrating cells, and the majority of these infiltrating T-cells were composed of Lyt1+ cells with a small proportion of Lyt2+ cells. By immunoelectron microscopy, lymphocytes carrying Thy1.2, Lyt1 or Lyt2 antigen were identified, as is demonstrated by an electron-dense reaction product on the entire cell surface, and these immunopositive cells were frequently observed around and in the acini and ducts. Some of the Thy1.2+, Lyt1+ or Lyt2+ cells observed in the acini and ducts demonstrated a close contact with acinar and ductal cells and both Lyt1+ and Lyt2+ cells sent spike-like projections into them. Occasionally, a partial degeneration of acinar cell adjacent to the invading lymphocytes was observed. These observations suggest that T-lymphocytes are involved in the direct destruction of acinar and ductal cells in the NOD mouse submandibular glands. PMID- 2520474 TI - The autonomic innervation of the liver and gallbladder of Rana ridibunda. AB - 1--The innervation of the liver and gallbladder of Rana ridibunda has been studied by the following methods: (a) demonstration of cholinesterase activity; (b) FIF method for catecholamines; (c) immunohistochemistry for VIP and (d) electron microscopy. 2--The hepatocytes are arranged in regular rows of hepatic cords, very little connective tissue is distributed in the parenchyma, the innervation being restricted to the big branches of blood vessels. 3--Well defined cholinergic and adrenergic plexuses surround the hepatic arteries, portal veins and biliary ducts. The VIPergic innervation is scarce in the liver but a richly branched plexus spreads in the wall of the gallbladder. 4--Cholinesterase positive cells are widely distributed accompanying the nerve trunks of the gallbladder. The innervation distribution is prominent in the portion of the gallbladder next to the hepatic hilus. 5--A population of melanin-storing cells besides free melanin granules are present in the liver parenchyma and are prominent in the gallbladder where the melanocytes are disposed in close contact with blood vessels and nerve structures. We have observed that the number of these visceral melanocytes considerably increases in winter, particularly in the liver. PMID- 2520476 TI - Morphological and biochemical alterations in growing rats induced by etretinate. AB - Etretinate is an aromatic retinoid extensively used on Dermatology. Its toxic effects, however, reduce its application from a clinical point of view. In the present paper, we study etretinate intoxication of 48 growing Wistar rats. The intoxication was for 12 weeks using etretinate doses of 0.5 and 6 (mg/kg)/day. The concentrations of etretinate in plasma and liver were determined. Total seric cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations were analyzed. Structural and ultrastructural histological studies of liver samples were carried out. Continuous etretinate ingestions seem to produce an alteration in the detoxication of enzymatic complexes in the growing rats with both the concentrations, due to the increase in etretinate blood plasma observed during the study. There is a relationship between the etretinate dose and its blood plasma concentration and toxic effect, but there is not with etretinate concentration in the liver. The blood plasma concentration of cholesterol and triglycerides is not related to histological liver lesions. The histological study confirms hepatotoxicity with both doses. Nevertheless, the anatomopathological lesions observed do not seem to be related to the blood plasma and liver etretinate concentrations. PMID- 2520477 TI - Compensatory adrenal growth in aldosterone-treated male and female hamsters. AB - The aim of the study was to investigate the compensatory adrenal growth in aldosterone-treated male and female hamsters. Hemiadrenalectomised and sham operated animals were treated for 5 days with a daily d-aldosterone dose of 25 micrograms/animal. In both male and female aldosterone-treated hamsters monoadrenalectomy did not change the relative adrenal weight if compared with sham-operated groups. The fasciculata zonae of monoadrenalectomised aldosterone treated males was larger and contained more parenchymal cells than in appropriate control group. There was no difference in the volume of adrenocortical zones, average cell volume and in cell number between sham-operated and unilaterally adrenalectomised females. In vitro 3H-thymidine incorporation per adrenal was markedly higher in monoadrenalectomised than in sham-operated aldosterone-treated males while the opposite was true for female hamsters. Thus, the action of aldosterone on CAG in the hamster seems to depend on sex, with no effect in males and inhibitory action in females. PMID- 2520475 TI - Ultrastructural and hormonal metabolic studies of rat liver maintained in vitro by perfusion at 30 degrees C and 37 degrees C: a time course study by TEM, SEM and RIA. AB - Isolated rat liver perfusion system has been extensively used for metabolic and functional studies. Results derived from the application of this system may reflect true biochemical changes but they may also be associated with some structural changes. This study was undertaken to correlate the cytological changes and functional integrity of isolated rat liver perfused in vitro at normal physiological temperature (37 degrees C) and 30 degrees C, using a non recirculating system. The livers were perfused for 3 hours with modified Ham's F10 culture medium supplemented with thyroxine hormone (T4). The hepatocyte structural integrity was studied by light microscopy, transmission and scanning electron microscopy. The triiodothyronine (T3) and T4 hormones in the perfusion medium and the effluent fractions were assessed by radioimmunoassay. The livers perfused at 30 degrees C remained morphologically intact at the ultrastructural level for 3 hours whilst at 37 degrees C, hepatocytes in the centrilobular zone exhibited marked structural alterations. The percentage of T4 uptake was significantly higher (P less than 0.01) in livers perfused at 30 degrees C (50.8 +/- 7.7% vs 38 +/- 7.7%, 37 degrees C), but the net T3 output (3.16 +/- 1.04 micrograms) and the conversion of T4 to T3 (4 +/- 0.62%) were significantly higher (P less than 0.001) in livers perfused at 37 degrees C in comparison to livers perfused at 30 degrees C (1.61 +/- 0.84 micrograms and 1.68 +/- 0.76%, respectively). In conclusion, at 30 degrees C the hepatic T4 uptake is not inhibited, but the rate of T4 to T3 conversion has decreased, additionally the livers remain morphologically well preserved throughout the experimental period.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2520478 TI - Palatal shelf reorientation in hamster embryos following treatment with 5 fluorouracil. AB - A study was undertaken to examine the issue of whether achieving a critical mass of cells and/or palatal shelf volume during vertical development of shelf is essential for reorientation to occur. In control and 5-fluorouracil (5FU)-treated hamster embryos' palatal shelves, at different times during gestation, the numbers of both epithelial and mesenchymal cells were counted and cross-sectional area was measured. DNA synthesis was measured by 3H-thymidine incorporation and was used as an index of growth by cell proliferation. The control data indicated that, unlike development during initial 24 hours, the later period of vertical palatal development was characterized by a steady level of mesenchymal and epithelial cell numbers and palatal shelf area. Following 5FU treatment all the measurements were reduced, and until they reached the equivalent of control values, the palatal shelves did not reorient. The density of mesenchymal cells in the developing palate did not seem to affect cell number. On the basis of the analysis of results of the present study, along with those reported in the literature, it is suggested that, in hamsters, acquisition and maintenance of both a specified number of mesenchymal cells and shelf area, at least 24 hours prior to reorientation, may be critical for ensuing mesenchymal differentiation to enforce palatal shelf reorientation on schedule. 5FU affected these features to delay reorientation of the palatal shelf. PMID- 2520479 TI - Nucleolar organiser regions in colonic dysplasia. A preliminary study. AB - As a preliminary investigation in the evaluation of the argyrophilic nucleolar organiser region (AgNOR) technique in colonic dysplasia, quantitation of AgNORs was carried out in biopsies of normal rectal mucosa and tubulovillous adenomas. The AgNOR counts in the lower third of the normal crypts were approximately twice those in the surface mucosa but there was no significant difference between counts in normal crypt bases and adenomas. It is concluded that the AgNOR technique is unlikely to be of value in the assessment of colonic dysplasia. PMID- 2520480 TI - Glomerular filtration barrier in experimental endotoxin shock: a histopathological and physiopathological study. AB - In the present work a morphopathological study is carried out of the glomerular filtration barrier in 20 Large-White pigs weighing 20 kg, subjected to experimental intravenous inoculations of endotoxin from Salmonella enteritidis. The study is completed with the determination of protein plasmatic levels, through urine test with the determination of pH, density, proteins, glucose, ketone body levels and urinary sediment. The histopathological and physiopathological results reveal alterations at the level of the filtration barrier with quantitative differences between the different experimental groups. PMID- 2520481 TI - Reorganization of the subplasmalemmal cytoskeleton in association with exocytosis in rat mast cells. AB - The subplasmalemmal cytoskeleton in mast cells has been studied by scanning electron microscopy of the internal side of the plasma membrane. Rearrangement of the dense subplasmalemmal network of actin filaments took place following cell activation by compound 48/80 and secretion of histamine. The rearrangement was a withdrawal of the subplasmalemmal cytoskeleton from the exocytotic sites and the development of bare, filament-free areas around the sites. In calcium-depleted mast cells we demonstrated a dense network that was difficult to break. Activation of the calcium-depleted cells by compound 48/80 did not induce rearrangement of the network, and in parallel there was no secretion of histamine. PMID- 2520482 TI - Epidermal Langerhans cells in infectious diseases. PMID- 2520483 TI - The phylogenetic odyssey of the erythrocyte. I. Hemoglobin: the universal respiratory pigment. AB - Hemoglobin is a molecular entity that is capable of reversibly binding and releasing oxygen in either extra- or intracellular milieus. It is present in scattered invertebrates in physical solution or in cellular sites while in vertebrates it is universally located in circulating erythrocytes. These cells serve as the vehicle for and otherwise foster the optimum utilization hemoglobin. Hemoglobin's variable sphere of respiratory activities can be viewed as reflecting the specific requirements for each organism in which it is observed. Once these concepts have been established and the advantages and limitations of its cytologic packaging recognized, the study of the erythrocyte as expressed in its dimensions, colligative aspects, geometry, internal morphology and pathologic variations can be approached in a purposeful manner. PMID- 2520484 TI - The role of platelet activating factor in allergic inflammation. AB - It is becoming increasingly apparent that platelet activating factor (PAF) is an important mediator in allergic disease. It is synthesized by a variety of cells including those which are thought to participate in the inflammatory process. In turn, PAF may stimulate these cells which further propagates the inflammatory process. Furthermore, PAF can mimic most of the characteristics which are relevant in allergic inflammation and PAF can produce effects comparable to that produced by antigen in animal models of allergic inflammation and in man. Other evidence to support the involvement of PAF in allergic disease has also arisen with the advent of PAF antagonists. Many PAF-induced responses can be attenuated by these agents and many antigen-induced responses in both animal models and in man can also be attenuated by PAF antagonists. This review attempts to summarize the results from studies which have investigated the role of PAF in allergic inflammation and the effects of PAF antagonists against both PAF and allergic induced responses. PMID- 2520485 TI - Adenosine as a pro-inflammatory mediator in asthma. AB - Adenosine, which may be formed by all cells during relative energy or oxygen deficit, may act as an autocoid by modifying the function of other cells in the local environment. In asthmatic, but not normal, subjects, inhalation of adenosine causes a marked bronchoconstriction which may be reduced by the purinoceptor antagonist theophylline, sodium cromoglycate, nedocromil sodium, histamine, H1-antagonists and cyclo-oxygenase inhibitors. Repeated exposure to adenosine induces a state of tachyphylaxis and cross-tachyphylaxis with exercise induced bronchoconstriction but not with that provoked by allergen. Although the mechanisms by which adenosine induces changes in airways function are not clear, it is suggested that it has an indirect effect, possibly by up-regulating bronchoconstrictor factors already present in asthma such as mast cell mediator release or neuronal reflexes. PMID- 2520486 TI - The role of C5a in hypersensitivity reactions in the lung. AB - What role the complement system in general, and C5a in particular play in hypersensitivity reactions in the lung is unknown. A review of the available studies indicates that C5a can mimic hypersensitivity reactions in the lung by virtue of its ability to cause cell infiltration and edema in the lung, cause a short lived airway hyperreactivity and cause bronchoconstriction. Its ability to cause contraction of isolated airways and in vivo bronchoconstriction in the guinea-pig is due to the release of histamine and arachidonate metabolites, mediator systems similar to those evoked by antigen-antibody reactions in the guinea-pig lung. To begin to determine if C5a generation with complement system activation was an important contributor to antigen-induced bronchoconstriction, the response to antigen was assessed in animals depleted of complement by cobra venom factor and unresponsive to C5a. Unexpectedly, these animals responded to antigen with a much greater bronchoconstriction than did animals with an intact complement system. This suggested that an intact complement system was somehow important in limiting allergic bronchoconstriction or conversely that allergic bronchoconstriction might be heightened when preceded by complement system activation. Thus, the data implicates C5a and/or complement system activation as a modulator of antigen-induced bronchoconstriction rather than directly contributing to the bronchoconstrictor component of hypersensitivity reactions in the lung. PMID- 2520487 TI - Pharmacology of allergen-induced early and late airway responses and antigen induced airway hyperresponsiveness in allergic sheep. AB - The pharmacology of antigen-induced early and late phase airway responses and the associated antigen-induced airway hyperresponsiveness was studied in allergic sheep. Data from studies with anti-allergic agents and specific receptor antagonists, especially leukotriene antagonists and antagonists of platelet activating factor (PAF), have led to the hypothesis that allergen-induced late responses in allergic sheep are linked to a heightened metabolism of arachidonic acid via the 5-lipoxygenase pathway. This increases leukotriene production during the acute allergic reaction, which results in a more prolonged acute bronchoconstriction and subsequently a more severe airway inflammation. These recruited inflammatory cells can then release mediators and other cell products which contribute to the late response and airway hyperresponsiveness. PMID- 2520488 TI - Dichotomous actions of endothelium-derived factors in modulating vasomotor tone in rabbit pulmonary arteries. PMID- 2520489 TI - The effect of passive sensitisation of human bronchial smooth muscle on in vitro sensitivity to histamine. AB - Allergen exposure may precipitate acute bronchoconstriction and increase bronchial reactivity. We have investigated whether passive sensitisation of human airway per se or short-term exposure to mediators released by specific antigen exposure produces an alteration in in vitro smooth muscle sensitivity to histamine. Exposure to allergen produced smooth muscle contraction in sensitised tissue, but subsequent smooth muscle sensitivity to histamine was not altered. We conclude that neither passive sensitisation nor short-term exposure to mast cell mediators alters in vitro smooth muscle sensitivity to histamine. PMID- 2520490 TI - Animal models of asthma. PMID- 2520491 TI - Relaxation of human peripheral airway smooth muscle in vitro does not correlate with severity of chronic airflow limitation in vivo. AB - We tested the hypothesis that a defect in relaxation of peripheral airway smooth muscle contributes to chronic airflow limitation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Twenty subjects underwent lung function measurements prior to thoracotomy. Lung tissue was obtained during surgery and bronchiolar segments were dissected. Smooth muscle function was measured isotonically in organ baths, using L-isoprenaline and the adenylate cyclase activator forskolin. Segments were precontracted with methacholine. Of the 20 subjects, 10 fulfilled the ATS criteria for COPD and had airflow limitation. There was no significant relationship between the degree of airflow limitation in vivo and the sensitivity or maximal response of peripheral airway muscle to methacholine, L-isoprenaline or forskolin in vitro. Furthermore, we found no differences between the mean contractile- and relaxation responses of airways from subjects with versus those without COPD and airflow limitation. Lung tissue from patients who regularly used beta-adrenergic drugs (n = 3) and/or steroids (n = 3) exhibited responses in vitro similar to those from subjects without medication. These results suggest that airflow limitation in COPD is not associated with an impaired relaxability of peripheral airway smooth muscle. PMID- 2520493 TI - Inositol phosphates and airway smooth muscle. PMID- 2520492 TI - A study of the muscarinic receptor subtype mediating mucus secretion in the cat trachea in vitro. AB - Mucus secretion from the cat trachea simulated by muscarinic receptor agonists has been studied by monitoring both the weight and acid glycoconjugate content of samples taken from an in vitro preparation. The nature of the receptor has been probed using a number of competitive muscarinic receptor antagonists by estimating their affinities from the degree to which the response could be blocked. Antagonist affinities have also been compared with those obtained in tracheal smooth muscle and atria from the guinea-pig. Atropine had similar affinities for all receptors investigated. 4DAMP and AF-DX116 had relatively high (pA2 = 9) and low (pA2 = 6) affinities respectively for the secretory receptor. The pA2 value of 7.5 calculated for pirenzepine suggested that the receptor was not of the M1 subtype. However, the value was higher than that for pirenzepine in both guinea-pig tissues indicating that the receptor may be an 'intermediate' between M1 and M2 subtypes. The lack of antagonists with absolute selectivity for a particular subtype of the muscarinic receptor prohibits a definitive classification. PMID- 2520494 TI - The effect of oral prostaglandin E1 on airway responsiveness in asthmatic subjects. AB - Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) is a bronchodilator in humans, but the effect of this prostaglandin on airway responsiveness in asthmatic subjects is not known. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of oral PGE1 treatment on airway responsiveness to inhaled histamine and methacholine in asthmatic subjects. The subjects had inhalation tests performed on separate study days over a period of 2 weeks. PGE1 (200 micrograms 4 times daily) or placebo was taken in a double-blind fashion for 4 consecutive days. Each week, after three days of treatment, a histamine or methacholine inhalation test was performed on one day, followed by an inhalation test with the alternative agonist the following day. Baseline forced expired volume in 1 s (FEV1) values were similar before each inhalation test on each study day (P = 0.81). However, both histamine and methacholine airway responsiveness decreased following PGE1 treatment. The mean provocative concentration of histamine causing a 20% fall in FEV1 (PC20 histamine) on the placebo day was 1.47 mg/ml (%SD 3.05) and was 2.35 mg/ml (%SD 2.72) (p less than 0.005) during PGE1 treatment period. Similarly the PC20 methacholine was 1.84 mg/ml (%SD 2.30) on the placebo day and was 2.53 mg/ml (%SD 2.06) during PGE1 treatment period (p = 0.025). This study demonstrates that oral PGE1, administered in doses which did not change airway caliber, can reduce airway responsiveness in mild asthmatics. PMID- 2520497 TI - Glucocorticoids for asthma--early contributions. PMID- 2520496 TI - Muscarinic receptor binding in central airway musculature in chronic airflow obstruction. AB - The hypothesis of an increased muscarinic receptor sensitivity in airway musculature of patients with chronic airflow obstruction (CAO) has been investigated by in vitro radioligand binding studies. The receptor binding profiles were determined in membrane homogenates of tracheal and main bronchial smooth muscle, as well as in segmental bronchial tissue preparations. The number of receptors was measured by binding of the radioactive muscarinic antagonist [3H]-(-)-quinuclidinyl benzilate ([3H]-(-)-QNB). The affinity for agonists was investigated by studying the inhibition of [3H]-(-)-QNB binding by the full muscarinic agonist methylfurtrethonium. Binding characteristics were determined (1) in tracheal smooth muscle from 7 patients with chronic airflow obstruction (2) in main bronchial smooth muscle of 5 patients with CAO and (3) in segmental bronchial tissue of 10 patients with CAO. The receptor binding properties were compared with values obtained on airway tissue from 31 subjects without CAO. Muscarinic receptors in smooth muscle preparations of trachea and main bronchus were present in normal density, and showed normal [3H]-(-)-QNB binding affinity and methylfurtrethonium binding properties. In segmental bronchial tissue preparations which contain smooth muscle and glandular tissue, also normal receptor numbers and [3H]-(-)-QNB affinity values were found. Morphometric examination of these preparations revealed normal amounts of smooth muscle and submucosal glands. This suggests that the excessive mucus production of CAO is not accompanied by an increased muscarinic receptor density in submucosal glands. These observations suggest unaltered muscarinic receptor characteristics in central airway smooth muscle of patients with chronic airflow obstruction. PMID- 2520495 TI - Theophylline disturbs sleep mainly in caffeine-sensitive persons. AB - In order to study effects of theophylline on sleep, a randomised double-blind cross-over study with slow release theophylline vs. placebo was performed on 13 healthy male volunteers (mean age 24 years), eight of whom were considered caffeine-sensitive and five caffeine-insensitive. A sleep diary was filled in during the entire period. At the end of each 2 week study period a sleep questionnaire was filled in and a sleep recording was conducted. Seven of the eight caffeine-sensitive persons reported that their sleep was disturbed during the theophylline period, while none of the five caffeine-insensitive experienced any difference between the periods. Analysis of the sleep diaries (mean +/- SD) revealed a significant increase in sleep latency (16 +/- 11 vs 4 +/- 7 min) and decrease in sleep efficiency (95 +/- 3 vs 98 +/- 3%) among the caffeine-sensitive persons during the theophylline period compared with the placebo period, while no such difference was found among the caffeine-insensitive. We conclude that theophylline seems to disturb sleep mainly in caffeine-sensitive persons. PMID- 2520498 TI - Sympatho-adrenal activity is assessed in patients with asthma by measurements of catecholamines and neuropeptide Y-like immunoreactivity (NPY-LI) in venous plasma. PMID- 2520499 TI - Induction of hyperresponsiveness in human airways in vivo and in vitro. PMID- 2520500 TI - Heterogeneity of endothelium-dependent and independent responses among large and small porcine pulmonary arteries. AB - To determine whether heterogeneity of endothelium-dependent or independent responsiveness exists between large and small pulmonary arteries, isolated rings (3-4 mm long) from large (5-7 mm in diameter) and small (2-3 mm in diameter) intralobar pulmonary arteries were prepared from normal swine and studied in vitro. Rings, with and without endothelium, were suspended in modified Krebs Ringer bicarbonate solution, bubbled with 95% O2-5% CO2, maintained at 37 degrees C and studied in parallel. Contractions to phenylephrine, norepinephrine and histamine were significantly potentiated in small rings, with or without endothelium, compared to large pulmonary artery rings with or without endothelium. The alpha-adrenergic agonist, UK 14304, however, caused comparable contractions in rings without endothelium taken from large and small vessels. Contractions to potassium chloride in rings without endothelium were also comparable. Relaxant responses were assessed in rings incubated with indomethacin and contracted with phenylephrine or prostaglandin F2 alpha. Acetylcholine, bradykinin, the calcium ionophore A23187 and UK 14304 elicited endothelium dependent relaxations in rings from both large and small vessels. Relaxations induced by acetylcholine and bradykinin but not those by A23187 were significantly shifted downward in small versus large pulmonary-artery rings. Isoproterenol also caused endothelium-augmented relaxations but in rings from small vessels only. Sodium nitroprusside and nitric oxide caused similar relaxations in rings from both orders. These results demonstrate that a heterogeneity in endothelium-dependent and independent responsiveness exists between large and small pulmonary arteries. PMID- 2520501 TI - Direct effects of nicotine on the meiotic maturation of hamster oocytes. AB - The effect of nicotine on the meiotic maturation of cultured hamster oocytes was investigated. Oocytes were cultured for up to 24 h and meiotic status was scored cytogenetically from chromatin spreads. The highest concentration of nicotine tested (5 mM) caused marked perturbations at both the first and second meiotic divisions which resulted in degenerating blobs of chromatin at 24 h. The most pronounced of these perturbations was either blockage at Metaphase I or disruption of homologue segregation to result in two groups of bivalents formed at Anaphase I. Concentrations of nicotine at or below 0.5 mM did not adversely affect the meiotic process. These data show, therefore, that nicotine significantly interferes with oocyte meiotic maturation only at concentrations far in excess of 0.1 to 1.0 microM, the concentration range of nicotine anticipated to be present in the blood of an "average" smoker. Thus, we conclude that the documented reduced fertility of women who smoke cigarettes is unlikely to be due to a direct effect of nicotine on oocyte meiotic maturation. PMID- 2520502 TI - Cytogenetic studies on preimplantation mouse embryos exposed to methylnitrosourea in vivo. AB - Since exposure of mice to methylnitrosourea (MNU) during the preimplantation period can induce malformations and an increased postnatal death rate, direct embryotoxic effects were studied in preimplantation embryos shortly after treatment of pregnant mice on days 2 and 3 of gestation with single i.p. injections of 2.5, 5.0, and 10.0 mg/kg MNU. Embryos exposed to MNU for 24 h after treatment on day 2 showed a significant reduction of cell number and induction of sister chromatid exchange (SCE) frequency, but no structural chromosomal aberrations or inhibition of development during culture. Embryos exposed to MNU in vivo for 3 h on day 3 showed significantly reduced cell numbers, a significant inhibition of development in culture, and an increase in structural chromosome aberrations. Due to the high cytotoxicity of MNU, determination of SCE was not possible. The results indicate that MNU reaches preimplantation mouse embryos shortly after maternal treatment and that malformations seen at term and postnatal effects are probably induced by the direct action of MNU on early embryos. Furthermore, the importance of the time interval chosen for evaluation of toxicologic endpoints in preimplantation embryos is demonstrated. PMID- 2520503 TI - Abnormal development of mouse embryos exposed to methylnitrosourea before implantation. AB - On day 2 of gestation mice were exposed to single i.p. injections of 5, 10, 20, and 40 mg/kg methylnitrosourea (MNU). Evaluation at term revealed 100% embryolethality in the 40 mg/kg group but no signs of maternal toxicity (LD50 = 400 mg/kg). In mice treated with 5 and 10 mg/kg, no malformations could be detected at term. In contrast, 40% of the live fetuses exposed to 20 mg/kg MNU showed developmental abnormalities of vertebrae, ribs, long bones, and kidneys. Analysis of postnatal development 3 weeks after birth indicated a significant increase in mortality in the offspring of all animals exposed to MNU on day 2 of pregnancy. Further developmental or morphologic anomalies could not be detected in the offspring up to the age of 6 months, when autopsy was performed. The data show that exposure to MNU before implantation has embryolethal and teratogenic effects in a dose range one order of magnitude lower than the toxic dose range for adult animals. PMID- 2520504 TI - Criteria for identifying and listing substances known to cause developmental toxicity under California's Proposition 65. AB - Because of the automatic restrictions and warning requirements imposed on substances identified by the state as "known to cause developmental toxicity," the Expert Committee recommends the use of criteria that emphasize human relevancy, biological plausibility, and evidence in support of a selective, adverse developmental effect at non-maternally-toxic doses. In many instances, data for substances of public concern will be insufficient at present to meet these criteria. The fact that a substance is not listed as "known to cause developmental toxicity" does not create a presumption that the substance is safe. The Expert Committee, therefore, urges that these substances be recommended for further testing and that high priority be given to conducting the necessary tests. The Expert Committee reiterates its concern that substances listed by the SAP be identified according to the toxic endpoints (cancer, male reproductive toxicity, female reproductive toxicity, and/or developmental toxicity) that led to listing. Further, the Expert Committee recommends that the state Health and Welfare Agency institute education programs emphasizing appropriate courses of action for citizens informed of exposures to substances known to the state to cause cancer, birth defects, or reproductive toxicity. PMID- 2520505 TI - Sexual behavior of intact female rats after treatment with o,p'-DDT or p,p'-DDT. AB - Sexual behavior of adult, female rats was tested following treatment with o,p' DDT or with p,p'-DDT during either diestrus or proestrus. Both chlorinated compounds decreased lordosis behavior, but o,p'-DDT did so only after treatment on diestrus. p,p'-DDT in contrast, decreased sexual behavior under all treatment conditions. o,p'-DDT may have altered behavior by disrupting the estrous cycle while p,p'-DDT had a major effect on the female's proceptivity and receptivity without modifying vaginal cyclicity. p,p'-DDT disrupted sexual behavior at doses as low as 25 mg/kg while 100 to 200 mg/kg o,p'-DDT were required. Since commercially prepared DDT contained a predominant proportion of p,p'-DDT, these results suggest that many reproductive effects of DDT may have resulted from p,p' DDT rather than from o,p'-DDT. PMID- 2520506 TI - Strain-dependency of procarbazine-induced testicular toxicity. AB - Three strains of rat were used to examine strain-dependency of procarbazine induced testicular toxicity. CCFHB and CCFY1 outbred albino rats and inbred PVG piebald variegated rats were treated weekly with procarbazine (200 mg/kg/dose x 4). Fifty-six days later, the rats were killed and reproductive parameters evaluated. Strain-related differences in body, testis, prostate, seminal vesicle weights, testis sperm, intratesticular testosterone, and [125I]hCG binding to testicular LH receptors were observed. Although treatment with procarbazine affected testis function in all strains, significant interactions occurred between treatment and strain. LH receptor binding and stem-cell survival were more severely affected in the inbred strain than in outbred strains. Serum testosterone increased in the outbred strain but decreased in the inbred strain, generating an interaction that obscured possible main effects. Significant strain related differences in within-group variances demonstrated that measurements were more variable in the outbred strains than in the inbred strain. Testes of the inbred strain appeared to be more sensitive to the effects of procarbazine than those of the outbred strains. These data illustrate two important toxicologic phenomena: differences in response variability and differences in target-organ sensitivity, both of which were explained by genetic variability. PMID- 2520507 TI - Cadmium disposition following repeated exposure in the pregnant hamster. AB - Pregnant Syrian hamsters were given a dose of 3.9 micromoles cadmium ion/kg (radiolabelled with 109cadmium) on days 7, 8, 9, and 11 of gestation. Animals were sacrificed on day 13 of gestation and maternal blood, liver, kidney, placentas, and fetuses collected. No pathology was observed in placentas or fetuses. Maternal liver accounted for 61% of the total cadmium injected (15.6 micromoles/kg dam), maternal kidney 4%, and placentas 0.24%. Maternal blood and fetuses contributed negligibly to the total body burden of cadmium. Gel filtration experiments indicated two major cadmium fractions in maternal liver, maternal kidney, and placental cytosols, one at the excluded volume and another nearly twice the excluded volume. Further purification and characterization of the cadmium fraction eluting at twice the excluded volume in the gel filtration experiments showed it to be cadmium metallothionein. Ion exchange chromatography on DEAE Sephacel revealed two forms of cadmium metallothionein in the cytosols of maternal liver and placentas. Maternal kidney cytosols contained one cadmium metallothionein. Amino acid analyses suggest that the thionein components of placental cytosols are synthesized in situ. PMID- 2520508 TI - Evidence for embryotoxicity of gossypol in mice and chicks with no evidence of mutagenic activity in the Ames test. AB - Effects of gossypol treatment were studied in pregnant mice and chick embryos. Pregnant Balb C mice were treated orally with 60 or 120 mg/kg of gossypol acetic acid on days 6-13 of pregnancy and killed on day 18. The uteri were removed, the number of resorptions and late fetal deaths were recorded, and the fetuses were weighed and assessed for malformations. Fertilized hen eggs were injected with 0.25 mg gossypol/egg at 24, 48, 72, or 96 h of incubation. The embryos were examined at day 9 of incubation. The mutagenic potential of gossypol was determined by the Ames test. Treatment of mice with gossypol produced significant adverse effects on the dam and offspring including decreased pregnancy weight gain of the dam and growth retardation of the offspring. There were increased resorptions and late fetal deaths in mice and high mortality in chick embryos. Exencephalic fetuses were observed in one of four litters exposed to the higher dose of gossypol, micromelia was observed in one of 26 chick embryos treated at 24 h, and gastroschisis was observed in one of 21 chick embryos treated at 72 h. No malformations were observed in the controls. The number of revertants per plate in the gossypol treatment group (100 or 500 mg gossypol/plate) did not differ significantly from that of control. This study provides evidence that gossypol has embryotoxic and possibly teratogenic activity in mouse and chick embryos but no mutagenic activity according to the Ames assay. PMID- 2520509 TI - Ethanol-induced delayed male puberty in mice is not due to impaired Leydig cell function. AB - The present study was performed to evaluate the involvement of reduced testosterone in ethanol-induced impairment of male reproductive tract development. In vivo and in vitro gonadotropin (hCG)-stimulated steroidogenesis were examined in CFW mice as a function of chronic ethanol treatment during pubertal development. Chronic ethanol treatment from ages 20 to 49 days impaired testicular growth from ages 35 days (29 +/- 2 mg vs 37 +/- 2 mg for pair-fed controls) to 50 days (42 +/- 2 mg vs 63 +/- 2 mg for pair-fed controls). Consistent with a reduction in testicular weight, testicular content of androstenedione, testosterone, and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) was depressed in ethanol-treated mice. At age 50 days, the content (expressed as pg/testis) of androstenedione, testosterone, and DHT was reduced in ethanol-treated animals by 49%, 31%, and 38%, respectively, as compared to that of their respective controls. However, no difference in plasma (ng/mL) or testicular (pg/mg protein) concentrations of steroids was observed. Except for the DHT response at ages 35 to 40 days, neither in vivo nor in vitro steroidogenesis was impaired by chronic ethanol treatment at ages 26 to 50 days; similarly, the acute ethanol effect on steroidogenesis was unaffected. However, an adaptive increase (54%-173%) in the in vivo testosterone response to hCG was seen at ages 26 to 40 days. The data indicate that 1) chronic ethanol treatment does not impair gonadotropin stimulated steroidogenesis or result in tolerance to acute ethanol effects on steroidogenesis in older animals; and 2) ethanol-induced reduction in testosterone is not a likely mechanism for delayed sexual maturation. PMID- 2520510 TI - The fetal hydantoin syndrome: answers from a mouse model. AB - In spite of a large body of literature suggesting that prenatal exposure to hydantoin anticonvulsant drugs can be teratogenic in humans, resulting in offspring with congenital malformations, the wide phenotypic variability of this syndrome has led many clinicians to question its very existence. Because solutions to major teratologic questions may be impossible to find within the constraints of human clinical or epidemiologic investigations, we have developed an animal model for the fetal hydantoin syndrome. With this model, we have been able to demonstrate the dose-related teratogenic effects of phenytoin on mouse development and the positive correlation between increasing maternal plasma phenytoin concentrations and the risk for congenital anomalies among offspring. Further, we have shown that genetic differences in susceptibility to particular phenytoin-induced malformations exist within different inbred mouse strains. Finally, in homozygous quaking (qk/qk) mice, the fetal malformations were associated not with the presence of a maternal seizure disorder, but with the phenytoin treatment of the disorder. An animal model such as the one described in this paper serves as a valuable adjunct to human clinical studies, and may serve to shorten the distance between our current understanding and our goal of preventing preventable birth defects. PMID- 2520511 TI - Maternal factors influencing development of embryos from mice superovulated with gonadotropins. AB - In NMRI mice superovulation with pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) increased mating rate, number of implantation sites, rate of advanced and delayed resorptions, as well as retarded sternebral ossification and cleft palate. On day 3 of gestation in preimplantation embryos, cell number and mitotic index were lower after superovulation than after spontaneous ovulation. However, when preimplantation embryos from superovulated and control females were transferred on day 3 of pregnancy to pseudopregnant recipients (10 embryos per female) no differences could be detected between the two groups of fetuses at term. The results of the embryo transfer experiments indicate that abnormal embryonic development after superovulation with gonadotropins is predominantly induced by effects of the hormone treatment on the maternal uterine environment. PMID- 2520513 TI - Clinical tests and statistics. PMID- 2520512 TI - An explanation of the stability of the incidence of inborn defects. AB - We propose a mathematical model for the malformation incidence in a population. The model is based on the assumption that malformations occur in a narrow range of embryotoxic doses for a given toxin and that this range varies in the population. Using this assumption, we exhibit malformation incidence curves which are in qualitative agreement with experimental data. PMID- 2520514 TI - Mathematical models of biological systems. PMID- 2520515 TI - Reproductive and general metabolic effects of phytoestrogens in mammals. PMID- 2520516 TI - Testosterone production by the prepubertal mouse testis is not depressed by ethanol. AB - The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the sensitivity of testicular steroidogenesis during pubertal development to inhibition by ethanol. In vivo and in vitro human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)-stimulated steroidogenesis were examined in CFW mice as a function of age. Plasma androstenedione, testosterone, and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) increased from ages 23 to 60 days in control mice. Acute ethanol treatment (3 g/kg) yielded static levels of androstenedione (0.45 +/- 0.03 ng/mL), testosterone (6.4 +/- 0.56 ng/mL), and DHT (2.3 +/- 0.18 ng/mL) from ages 23 to 60 days, 30 to 60 days, and 35 to 60 days, respectively, resulting in reduction of plasma androstenedione, testosterone, and DHT (P less than 0.05) relative to control values, but not until ages 35, 50, and 45 days, respectively. A similar insensitivity of the prepubertal testis to ethanol was seen in vitro. Inhibition of in vitro androstenedione and testosterone accumulation was seen only after ages 26 and 45 days, respectively. The data indicate that testosterone production by the pubertal testis is relatively insensitive to direct inhibition by ethanol. Previous studies have shown that chronic ethanol treatment of adolescent mice delays testicular maturation. The present study suggests that if chronic ethanol-induced delayed testicular development were due to impaired steroidogenesis, such impairment would be secondary to reduced gonadotropin stimulation and/or due to a chronic, rather than an acute, effect of ethanol. PMID- 2520517 TI - Bendectin, science, and the law. PMID- 2520518 TI - Who should paint the nursery? PMID- 2520519 TI - Semen characteristics of Vietnam veterans. AB - As part of an epidemiologic study of the health status of a randomly selected group of Vietnam veterans, we measured the semen characteristics of 324 Vietnam veterans and compared them with a similar group of 247 veterans who did not serve in Vietnam. The participation rate was 81% in both groups. Measurements of sperm concentration, movement characteristics, and head dimensions were performed, using the Cellsoft computer-assisted semen analysis system. We found that Vietnam veterans had significantly (p less than 0.05) lowered mean sperm concentrations (64.8 x 10(6) sperm/mL for Vietnam veterans vs 79.8 x 10(6) sperm/mL for non Vietnam veterans), and Vietnam veterans were twice as likely to have sperm concentrations less than or equal to 20 million/mL (odds ratio = 2.7, 95% confidence interval = 1.3-5.7). Vietnam veterans also had a significantly lowered mean proportion of morphologically normal sperm heads (57.9% vs 60.8%), with significantly longer mean major axis length and head circumference. The proportion of motile cells, velocity, linearity, amplitude of lateral head displacement, and beat frequency were not different between the two groups. Despite differences in sperm characteristics, Vietnam and non-Vietnam veterans reported fathering similar numbers of children. PMID- 2520520 TI - Reversibility of the toxic effect of lead on the male reproductive axis. AB - The present study investigates the reversibility of the toxic effects of lead on the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis in prepubertal and pubertal male rats. Male Wistar rats, 27 days and 52 days old, were given ad libitum access to 0.0% or 0.6% lead acetate containing water. Groups of animals were sacrificed at the end of 30 days of exposure or after a 30-day recovery period. Blood lead and free erythrocyte porphyrin (FEP) levels in the lead-treated groups were significantly higher than in the control animals (P less than 0.001). The animals in the recovery groups had lower, albeit not normal, blood lead and FEP levels 30 days after discontinuing treatment. Serum testosterone, intratesticular sperm counts, and sperm production rates were suppressed in the lead-treated groups (P less than 0.001). Serum testosterone and sperm parameters normalized at the end of the recovery period in the prepubertal animals but not in the pubertal animals. PMID- 2520521 TI - Vasocystostomy: a model for studying male reproductive toxicity in the rat. AB - A nonsacrificial rat model has been developed which permits the easy collection and measurement of spermatozoa. The ductus deferens is anastomosed to the bladder (Vasocystostomy) and urinary sperm is collected daily. The correlation between testicular histology and sperm counts indicates that this model is reliable. Using this model we demonstrate inhibition of sperm production by fluoroacetate. PMID- 2520522 TI - Pharmacokinetics of doxylamine, a component of Bendectin, in the rhesus monkey. AB - The elimination of doxylamine and metabolites was determined after iv administration of [14C]doxylamine succinate at 0.7 and 13.3 mg/kg to the adult female rhesus monkey. Although the total recovery of radioactivity was the same for the low- and high-dose studies (90.2%), the rate of plasma elimination of doxylamine and its demethylated metabolite (desmethyldoxylamine) was slower for the high dose group. The 24 hr urinary excretion of doxylamine metabolites, desmethyl- and didesmethyldoxylamine, was significantly increased and the polar doxylamine metabolites were significantly decreased as the iv doxylamine succinate dose was increased. The plasma elimination of gas chromatograph (GC) detected doxylamine was determined after oral administration of Bendectin (doxylamine succinate and pyridoxine hydrochloride) at 7, 13.3, and 27 mg/kg to adult female rhesus monkeys. As the dose increased, the clearance of doxylamine decreased. A statistically evaluated fit of the oral data to a single compartment, parallel first-order elimination model and a single-compartment, parallel first- and second-order (Michaelis-Menten) elimination model indicated that the more complex model containing the second-order process was most consistent with the observed elimination data. PMID- 2520524 TI - Deciduoma formation in rats treated neonatally with the anti-estrogens, tamoxifen and MER-25. AB - Female rats of the T strain were given single daily injections of 100 micrograms and 200 micrograms of tamoxifen (Tx) and MER-25 (MER) for 5 days beginning on the day of birth (DAY 1). When sacrificed on Day 60, the Tx-treated rats (Tx rats) exhibited continued vaginal diestrus, whereas the females given MER or the vehicle alone showed regular estrous cycles. Ovaries from Tx rats were polyfollicular without corpora lutea, while those from MER rats, as well as from the controls given the vehicle alone, invariably contained both follicles and corpora lutea. In Tx rats, the uteri underwent atrophy, containing few uterine glands in an endometrium largely occupied by fibroblasts. Decidual response of the uterus to intraluminal oil instillation was markedly reduced in Tx rats given an appropriate regimen of progesterone and estradiol injections following ovariectomy on Day 60. By contrast, MER given neonatally had little effects on decidualization. Since ovariectomy on Day 10 brought about no amelioration of the decidualization in Tx rats, it is suggested that the lowered deciduogenic responsiveness to the instillation was caused by a direct action of Tx on the uterus of neonatal rats rather than by a Tx-induced alteration of hypothalamo hypophyseal-ovarian system. Differences in effect on the female reproductive system between Tx and MER were discussed. PMID- 2520525 TI - Sexism in toxicology. PMID- 2520523 TI - Pharmacokinetics of doxylamine given as Bendectin in the pregnant monkey and baboon. AB - The object of the present study was to determine the maternal plasma pharmacokinetics of doxylamine (the antihistamine component of Bendectin) following Bendectin administration. Bendectin was administered daily, po, at a dosage approximately 10 times the maximum human therapeutic dosage (7 mg/kg/day) throughout organogenesis (approximately days 22 through 50 of gestation) to three cynomolgus monkeys, four rhesus monkeys, and five baboons. Two pharmacokinetic experiments were performed in each animal, one on the first day of treatment and one on the last day of treatment. Although this study was not designed specifically as a teratologic examination, no morphologic abnormalities were observed when the fetuses were examined on approximately day 100 of gestation. A single-compartment, parallel first- and second-order elimination model was used to analyze the data. Although considerable interindividual variation was evident, no significant differences between species were observed when the half-life for the absorption of doxylamine from the gut or the elimination of doxylamine and metabolites from the plasma were compared. The plasma elimination half-lives and the clearance values were not altered by the 29 days of Bendectin treatment for any of the species. Only the half-life for the absorption of doxylamine in the baboon was reduced by daily dosing with Bendectin, but this did not alter doxylamine elimination. Thus, the pharmacokinetics of doxylamine administered as Bendectin were similar in the three nonhuman primate species examined and were not altered by repeated daily administration. PMID- 2520526 TI - Reproductive and chromosomal effects of occupational exposure to lead in the male. PMID- 2520527 TI - Acute effects of cadmium on preovulatory serum FSH, LH, and prolactin levels and on ovulation and ovarian hormone secretion in estrous rats. AB - On the day of diestrus II CFY rats were given 5, 10, or 15 mg/kg cadmium chloride (CdCl2) or 1.0 mL/kg of 0.9% NaCl. On the next day a group of animals was anesthetized with pentobarbital and blood was collected from the aorta at 13:00, 15:00, 16:30, or 18:00 h. for FSH, LH, prolactin (PRL), progesterone (P), and estradiol-17 beta (E2) determination. On the day of the expected estrus, the second group of animals was anesthetized with pentobarbital and cannulas were inserted in one of the femoral arteries and veins, and in one of the utero ovarian veins. Five-minute blood fractions were collected from the ovary for 40 min, and following the first blood samples, 10 IU hCG was injected iv. Ovarian venous outflow and blood pressure were continuously recorded. From the blood fractions, P and E2 were determined, and their secretion rates were calculated. In a third group of treated animals, the ovaries were excised for histological examination, and oviducts were flushed for counting oocytes. CdCl2 in the dose of 10 or 15 mg/kg increased the PRL serum levels at 13:00 h; it diminished FSH serum levels in the dose of 10 mg/kg and LH serum levels in the doses of 10 and 15 mg/kg at 15:00 h. The decrease in LH levels continued until 16:30 h in the dose of 10 mg/kg CdCl2. In estrous animals, CdCl2 did not influence the blood pressure and ovarian blood flow. In animals receiving 10 or 15 mg/kg CdCl2, a decrease in basal secretion of P occurred.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2520528 TI - Liv-52 protection against beryllium toxicity in female albino rats. AB - Toxic effects of beryllium salts on the reproductive organs of cyclic adult female albino rats have been studied. An attempt was made to overcome these effects using an Ayurvedic medicine Liv-52 (Himalaya Drug Co., Bombay). Liv-52 primed rats (1 mL/rat/day for 15 days) were exposed to beryllium nitrate intravenously and were sacrificed at different time intervals. At autopsy ovary, uterus, cervix, and vagina were processed for biochemical and histopathologic examination. Histoarchitecture of the ovary, uterus, cervix, and vagina revealed severe necrotic changes with beryllium nitrate treatment. Tissue glycogen content and the activity of alkaline phosphatase were inhibited significantly after beryllium treatment. Total and esterified cholesterol levels increased significantly in these organs when exposed to beryllium salts. However, a significant improvement was observed in the biochemical parameters and histoarchitecture of these organs when beryllium was injected into Liv-52-primed animals. PMID- 2520529 TI - Effects of fluoride on the histoarchitecture of reproductive organs of the male mouse. AB - The effects of sodium fluoride (NaF) ingestion in two doses (10 and 20 mg/kg body weight) for 30 days on histology and histocytometry of reproductive organs of the adult male mouse were investigated. In order to study reversibility, treatment was withdrawn for one and two months. The testes, epididymides, vas deferens, prostate, and seminal vesicle were utilized for the study by standard hematoxylin eosin staining and an ocular eye piece and micrometer scale. NaF treatment caused severe disorganization and denudation of germinal epithelial cells of seminiferous tubules with absence of sperm in the lumina. The Leydig cell and nucleus diameters were not affected. The caput epididymis showed fewer changes than the cauda. However, epithelial cell nuclear pyknosis and absence of luminal sperm were observed. A reduction in epithelial cell height, nuclear pyknosis, denudation of cells, and absence of sperm occurred in the cauda epididymis. The vas deferens epithelium showed nuclear pyknosis, clumped stereocilia, and cell debris but no sperm in the lumen and an increase in the lamina propria. The prostate and seminal vesicles were not affected by treatment. Withdrawal of treatment caused marked recovery in the histoarchitecture of these organs. The effects of NaF treatment are therefore transient and reversible. PMID- 2520530 TI - Urinary creatine as a possible marker for testicular damage: studies with the testicular toxic compound 2-methoxyethanol. AB - A single dose of 500 mg/kg of 2-methoxyethanol given to male rats caused testicular damage, detected by histopathology, a significant reduction in relative testis weight, and a significant rise in urinary creatine, maximal at 48 h after dosing. Further studies showed that the reduction in relative testis weight and creatine excretion were dose related. Conversely, urinary creatinine showed a dose-related decrease at 24 h after dosing. In female rats dosed with 500 mg/kg of 2-methoxyethanol, there was no increase in urinary creatine or decrease in creatinine. These data suggest that urinary creatine may be a useful, noninvasive marker of testicular damage. PMID- 2520531 TI - Embryotoxicity and fetotoxicity of orally administered hexavalent chromium in mice. AB - The embryotoxic and fetotoxic potential of hexavalent chromium (Cr+6) in mice was investigated by administering 250, 500, and 1000 ppm of potassium dichromate daily through drinking water during the entire gestation period. An increase in embryonic deaths was observed; however, in the mothers treated with the highest dose, there was complete absence of implantation sites. No major abnormality was observed in the fetuses except that Cr+6 exposure increased the incidences and types of external and skeletal malformations. It is concluded that oral exposure to Cr+6 causes dose-dependent embryolethal effects in mice. PMID- 2520532 TI - Cluster of oligospermia among four men occupationally exposed to methylene chloride (MeCl) PMID- 2520533 TI - Norepinephrine therapy has no deleterious renal effects in human septic shock. AB - We investigated 25 patients (aged 20 to 70 yr) in septic shock with low systemic vascular resistance in order to assess the effects on renal function of prolonged (24 to 240 h) norepinephrine (NE) infusion (range 0.5 to 1.5 micrograms/kg.min). Two sets of renal function tests were made: a) control study before NE therapy after the initial intravascular loading and on dopamine infusion (mean dosage 14 +/- 2 micrograms/kg.min); b) in the last 24 h of NE infusion associated with dopamine (2 to 3 micrograms/kg.min). The following renal function tests were measured: urine flow rate, creatinine, osmolar and free water clearances, and fractional excretion of sodium (FENa). Data were collected only in 22 nonanuric patients: urine flow rate, creatinine, and osmolar clearance increased (p less than .001), and free water clearance (p less than .001) and FENa (p less than .02) decreased. These results suggest that NE (0.5 to 1.5 micrograms/kg.min) may be used in the treatment of human septic shock without deleterious renal effects. PMID- 2520534 TI - Changes in free fatty acids, phospholipids, and cholesterol following impact injury to the rat spinal cord. AB - Free fatty acids (FFA), phospholipid, and cholesterol levels were measured in spinal cord samples from rats subjected to low (25 g-cm), moderate (50 g-cm), or severe (100 g-cm) impact trauma to the T10 spinal segment. All degrees of injury caused early (15 min) declines in total phospholipids after trauma; phospholipid levels remained significantly below controls in rats subjected to moderate and severe injuries for up to 3 days, whereas phospholipids had returned to baseline values by 4 hr in the low injury group. Rapid and persistent decreases in cholesterol levels were observed for all injury groups. Severe trauma was associated with biphasic increases in FFA levels: levels were elevated at 5 and 15 min post-trauma and had declined by 30 min; a second elevation was observed at 1 hr, progressively increasing to reach a maximum at 24 hr, before declining over the next 6 days. Low and moderate injuries caused similar early total FFA increases; later increases were significantly smaller than in the severely injured group. Among the free fatty acids, significant increases were observed in palmitate, stearate, oleate, linoleate, linolenate, arachidonate, and docosahexaenoate. These findings indicate that traumatic spinal cord injury results in early, transient, postinjury membrane phospholipid hydrolysis, the magnitude of which is relatively independent of the severity of injury. More delayed and sustained lipid hydrolysis also occurs after trauma, the magnitude of which is related to the severity of injury. PMID- 2520535 TI - The Rh blood group system, 1988: eight new antigens in nine years and some observations on the biochemistry and genetics of the system. PMID- 2520536 TI - Red cell membrane glycoproteins with a broad tissue distribution. PMID- 2520537 TI - Protooncogenes and cell differentiation. PMID- 2520538 TI - Current practice and guidelines for the transfusion of cellular blood components in the newborn. PMID- 2520540 TI - Perioperative red cell transfusion. National Institutes of Health Consensus Development Conference. PMID- 2520539 TI - Lectins in immunohematology. PMID- 2520541 TI - Introduction: closing the window on AIDS. PMID- 2520542 TI - Heterosexual HIV transmission. AB - Heterosexual transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in New York City is principally a phenomenon of the urban inner city, where a large number of infected current or former drug addicts live in close social and sexual contact with inner-city women. These women are at high risk for sexual acquisition of HIV. Evidence of heterosexual transmission is already apparent in the high levels of infection in STD (sexually transmitted disease) clinics and has been noted in a New York State Department of Health study showing that 1 of every 61 women who gave birth in New York City was infected. This problem will increase and will be associated with the derivative problems of pediatric acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Intense targeted counseling, education, and voluntary testing of inner-city populations, combined with additional drug treatment resources, are essential if the rate of heterosexual transmission is to be decreased. PMID- 2520543 TI - Constant and variable antigenic regions of the HIV. AB - Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is the etiological agent in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). The presence of antibodies against HIV is indicative of prior exposure to HIV. Currently available antibody screening tests use HIV-infected cells as a source of viral antigens. This approach has resulted in inherent flaws, including a high rate of false-positive results. In order to develop a highly specific and sensitive test, various proteins of HIV [envelope (env), gag, pol] were cloned and expressed. In addition, we synthesized peptides corresponding to various regions of envelope (gp120, gp41), tat, art, and the protease gene products were synthesized. Using these synthetic peptides and cloned proteins, several conserved and highly antigenic epitopes in viral envelope were identified. Fusion proteins were made from the highly conserved and antigenic epitopes of env and gag. One of these fusion proteins, env-gag, was used to develop an enzyme immunoassay that would detect the antibodies against both env and gag epitopes. A clinical study of 13,781 samples demonstrated the very high specificity (99.9%) and sensitivity (100%) of this assay. PMID- 2520545 TI - Confirmation of HIV infection using gene amplification. AB - Direct recognition of viral gene sequences can be used to detect human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) in clinical specimens. A modification of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for amplification of gene sequences was used for detection of HIV-1-specific RNA prepared from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). The RNA served as a template for reverse transcriptase using primers derived from both the 3'ORF and the LTR regions of HIV-1, as well as from the control cellular sequences encoding beta-actin and T cell receptor. The resultant DNA was amplified with DNA polymerase. A transcriptional step using the bacteriophage T7 promoter recognition sequences, incorporated into the primers, was used to enhance the efficiency of the amplification process. This assay detects as few as 100 RNA copies of cloned HIV-1 genome. Starting with 1 microgram RNA isolated from PBMC, we were able to detect HIV-1 sequences in patients with symptomatic and asymptomatic HIV-1 infection. The inclusion of T cell-specific primers permitted simultaneous evaluation of an immunologic parameter. The PCR can be applied to RNA samples for detection of viral and cellular sequences and is a rapid and efficient means for detection of HIV-1 sequences as well as potentially informative cellular sequences. PMID- 2520544 TI - Setting up an HIV screening program. AB - Human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) screening programs currently are based primarily on the detection of specific HIV-1 antibodies by the commercially available enzyme immunoassay (EIA) combined with highly specific confirmation procedures. Factors to be considered in establishing a screening program include test performance characteristics, economy, confidentiality and notification procedures, legal and regulatory issues, proficiency and quality control measures, and laboratory safety. Commercial EIA screening in conjunction with a licensed Western blot assay permits the classification of all but a few serum samples into HIV-1-positive and HIV-1-negative categories. The occasional indeterminate results often can be resolved by following a defined retesting/resampling algorithm or by using research-level test procedures that may become available for diagnostic use in the future. Although screening of patient populations with an increased risk of HIV-1 exposure will improve the predictive accuracy of an initial screening assay, confirmation testing should nonetheless be performed for all EIA reactive sera regardless of the source. Local HIV-1 screening programs that meet minimum-volume requirements can result in considerable savings and flexibility for a moderate-size institution. However, before this type of program is undertaken, numerous technical and ethical considerations need to be addressed. PMID- 2520546 TI - Human retroviruses: a common virology. AB - There are five known human retroviruses: human T-lymphotropic virus-I (HTLV-I), HTLV-II, HTLV-V, human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1), and HIV-2. These are related to animal lentiviruses. The simian retroviruses, simian T-lymphotropic virus-I (STLV-I) and STLV-III are related closely to HTLV-I and HIV-2 respectively. HTLV-I and HTLV-II and, possibly, HTLV-V are transforming agents that immortalize the CD4 cell. In contrast, HIV-1 and HIV-2 cause this cell to lyse, resulting in immunodeficiency (ID). HIV-1 and HIV-2 cause severe ID resulting in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). In HTLV-I and HTLV-II, ID is less severe and rarely progressive. Both of these retroviruses induce proliferation of CD4 cells. In HTLV-I, this results in acute T cell leukemia and mycosis fungoides (MF) with hypercalcemia. HTLV-V produces a less severe form of MF without hypercalcemia. Associated lymphomas (AL) occur with HTLV-I. HIV-1 and HIV-2 produce AL as well as Kaposi's sarcoma. Both also cause subcortical dementia because they are neurotropic. All human retroviruses appear to be transmitted sexually and by blood. Transfusional AIDS may be almost entirely eliminated by serologic testing of the blood supply, and transfusional lymphoma can be almost entirely eliminated by universal testing for HTLV-I. PMID- 2520547 TI - Protecting the blood supply. AB - Prevention of the transmission of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) by transfusion has been the most successful area of epidemiologic control of the disease. Only 2% of the more than 50,000 cases reported to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) have been attributed to transfusion, and the vast majority of these patients were infected before the introduction of screening tests in April 1985. The overall prevention program involves donor education, adequate medical history, physical examination, and mechanisms that allow exclusion of individuals at risk in a confidential manner. The current screening tests for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) antibodies are highly sensitive, and the Western blot confirmatory test is highly specific. The present program can be used as a model in screening for other viruses and diseases, and its success has stimulated current work in developing multiple-retrovirus screening tests to detect either several retroviruses simultaneously or elements that are common to all retroviruses. PMID- 2520548 TI - Frozen red cells. AB - The popularity and the promise of frozen red cells during the 1970s were largely attributable to logistic problems associated with 21-day storage and to the fringe benefits of white cell and plasma depletion that minimized alloimmunization and febrile transfusions and, it was speculated, reduced the risk of HBV transmission. Filtration, particularly with the new generation of filters now appearing on the market, promises to achieve an equivalent reduction in white cells at a fraction of the cost and inconvenience. Donor testing for HBV and anti-HIV and, as would appear from recent data, the ALT assay as a surrogate test for non-A, non-B hepatitis, have reduced the incidence of transmission of these diseases below the level where either evaluating or utilizing red cell freezing would be practically or economically feasible. The use of frozen red cells following rejuvenation will certainly be replaced by effective resuspension solutions that will permit rejuvenation, washing, and additional weeks of refrigerated storage. Barring some wholly unexpected and improbable development bringing the cost and convenience of frozen red cells close to those of refrigerated cells, there is little reason to believe that frozen red cells will find applications in the civilian market, except for the storage of rare types and, possibly, the prevention of CMV transmission in the foreseeable future. The original goal of red cell freezing, to make long term storage possible, has been fully realized. The rest is history. PMID- 2520549 TI - High-titer, low-avidity (HTLA) antibodies and antigens: a review. AB - Antibodies that react to HTLA characteristics cause difficulties in serologic testing because of the weak reactions they produce in the indirect antiglobulin test. Those specificities that are more frequently encountered (anti-Yka, -McCa, Kna, -Ch) are directed toward antigens of high incidence in both the white and black populations. They have not been shown to cause significant destruction of transfused antigen-positive red cells. The antibodies create problems in serologic tests because the reactions they produce interfere with the identification of reactions due to other, clinically significant antibodies. PMID- 2520550 TI - Cold agglutination. AB - Autoantibodies against red cells optimally reacting at 0 degree C, ie, CA, are normally found with low titers in the serum of human adults. High-titer CA may be induced by certain infectious agents, including M pneumoniae, EBV, CMV, and rubella virus, or may develop on the basis of chronic (malignant) B cell lymphoproliferation. The main clinical manifestation of cold agglutination is AIHA. Antigens and antibodies of cold agglutination are the best characterized reaction partners of a human autoimmune process. CA may recognize I and i antigens, which are lipid- and protein-linked branched and linear N-acetyl lactosamine chains, respectively. They are precursors of the ABH blood group antigens and are converted into H by fucosylation. An alternative substitution by sialylation creates Gd, Fl, and probably Vo/Li antigens. CA with anti-Pr and anti Sa specificities recognize 0-glycans with immunodominant sialyl groups on glycophorins. Several Pr subspecificities can be identified by chemically modified sialyl groups on glycophorins. Because CA in chronic lymphoproliferation are monoclonal antibodies, structure-specificity-interrelations of the antibodies could be identified by primary structure analyses of the N-terminal variable regions of H and L chains and by studies on CA idiotypes. Interrelations between distinct CA specificities and particular infectious agents could explain cold agglutination as a response to receptors for the agents or to the binding sites of antibodies against the agents. Interrelations also existing between certain CA isotypes (Ig classes and L chain types) and CA specificities could be a basis for the elucidation of the enigmatic etiology of chronic (malignant) monoclonal cold agglutination. PMID- 2520551 TI - Use of intravenous gammaglobulin as an immune replacement and an immune suppressant. PMID- 2520552 TI - The role of red blood cell antigens, histocompatibility antigens, and blood transfusions on renal allograft survival. PMID- 2520553 TI - Transfusion-induced alloimmunization and immunosuppression and the effects of leukocyte depletion. PMID- 2520554 TI - The role of interleukin-1 in the immunological response. PMID- 2520555 TI - The use of modified hemoglobin as an oxygen carrying blood substitute. PMID- 2520556 TI - Acute paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria. AB - Over eighty years have passed since Donath and Landsteiner identified the syndrome of PCH and reported an in vitro test for its diagnosis. The accuracy of their observations, and the usefulness of the DL procedure has persisted. PCH has been investigated over the years providing further information regarding antibody specificity and serological characteristics. However, the etiology of the syndrome remains to be elucidated. PCH, which was once thought to be rare and associated primarily with congenital syphilis, is not encountered as one of the most common causes of acute transient hemolytic anemia in young children. PMID- 2520557 TI - Is there an optimal hemoglobin level? PMID- 2520558 TI - Does perioperative blood transfusion promote tumor growth? PMID- 2520559 TI - Replacement therapy in antithrombin III deficiency. PMID- 2520560 TI - The molecular pathology of inherited human antithrombin III deficiency. PMID- 2520561 TI - The Fc gamma receptors on human macrophages. PMID- 2520562 TI - Autologous transfusion and directed donations: current controversies and future directions. PMID- 2520563 TI - Bronchoscopy. Enough or too much? PMID- 2520564 TI - [Biostructure of pathogenic aero-dispersions]. PMID- 2520565 TI - [Contributions of the epidemiology to the study of adverse effects of atmospheric chemical contaminants on the respiratory system]. PMID- 2520566 TI - [Recent data on respiratory oncogenesis: exposure to acid contaminants]. PMID- 2520567 TI - [Mortality in respiratory tract tumors and total tumors and air pollution in Venice]. PMID- 2520568 TI - [Public opinion regarding environmental pollution]. PMID- 2520569 TI - [Role and significance of air pollutants]. PMID- 2520570 TI - [Why this meeting?]. PMID- 2520572 TI - [Primary and secondary deficiencies of immunological defense mechanisms]. PMID- 2520574 TI - [Cardiac malformations as factors predisposing to respiratory diseases]. PMID- 2520571 TI - [Defense systems and mechanisms of the respiratory tract]. PMID- 2520573 TI - [Bronchopulmonary malformations]. PMID- 2520576 TI - [Atopy and bronchial dysreactivity]. PMID- 2520575 TI - [Chronic obstructive bronchopneumopathy with evolutive character in cystic fibrosis]. PMID- 2520577 TI - [Sequelae of acquired respiratory disease]. PMID- 2520578 TI - [Acquired cardiovascular pathology]. PMID- 2520579 TI - [Local and general endocrine and metabolic disorders in predisposition to respiratory diseases]. PMID- 2520580 TI - [Man as source and cause of pulmonary tuberculosis infection]. PMID- 2520581 TI - [Man as cause and source of the diffusion of respiratory infectious diseases: viral infections]. PMID- 2520582 TI - [Man as cause and source of the diffusion of respiratory bacterial infections]. PMID- 2520583 TI - [Bronchopulmonary mycoses]. PMID- 2520585 TI - [Concept and definition of environment]. PMID- 2520584 TI - [Pulmonary infestations]. PMID- 2520586 TI - [Identified environmental risks of potential or emergent respiratory damage]. PMID- 2520587 TI - [Environmental risks of potential or emergent damage: occupational activity]. PMID- 2520588 TI - [Identified environmental risks of potential or emergent respiratory damage: agricultural activity]. PMID- 2520589 TI - [Tobacco smoke]. PMID- 2520590 TI - [Acute and chronic inflammation of superior airways in relation to flying]. PMID- 2520591 TI - [Chemico-physics of the atmosphere and its relations with environmental pollution]. PMID- 2520592 TI - [Acute and chronic inflammation of median and inferior airways]. PMID- 2520594 TI - [Atypical cell proliferative activation of respiratory epithelia]. PMID- 2520593 TI - [Enzyme metabolic disorders]. PMID- 2520595 TI - [Cadmium hazards and extrarespiratory manifestations of poisoning]. PMID- 2520596 TI - [Inhalation absorption and extrapulmonary toxicity of chromium and lead compounds]. PMID- 2520597 TI - [Extrapulmonary toxicity of solvents]. PMID- 2520598 TI - [Absorption, distribution and elimination of carbon monoxide]. PMID- 2520599 TI - [Meteorological factors in the diffusion and transfer of radioactive air pollutants]. PMID- 2520600 TI - [Microphysics of condensation nuclei and atmospheric aerosols]. PMID- 2520601 TI - Regional cerebral blood flow in endogenous psychoses: a Tc-99m HMPAO-SPECT pilot study. PMID- 2520605 TI - Student selection of tertiary nursing courses: efficacy of the Anderson score as a performance predictor. AB - Selection of students for undergraduate nursing courses in Victorian Institutes of Higher Education is based almost exclusively on their Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) Anderson score. Major aims of the selection process should be maximization of academic achievement as a basis for professional development and minimization of attrition. This paper examines the efficacy of the Anderson score as a selection instrument, using statistical methods to correlate Anderson score and other VCE data with academic performance in the first year of a Diploma of Applied Science (Nursing) course. Further statistical analysis is performed on upper and lower half groupings to show the selective value of the Anderson score in the region where it is likely to be applied. PMID- 2520616 TI - A simple technique for preoperative teaching and planning. PMID- 2520617 TI - Review article: dissolution of gallstones in the biliary tree. AB - There are a variety of methods for dissolving gallstones in the biliary tree, which include oral therapy and direct contact dissolution. Cholesterol gallstones are most amenable to dissolution. Developments in non-operative physical methods to remove gallstones (particularly endoscopic papillotomy and extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy have diminished the use of chemical dissolution. However, in selected patients, there remains a place for chemical dissolution, but often in conjunction with the physical techniques. PMID- 2520618 TI - Review article: mechanisms of drug release from tablets and capsules. I: Disintegration. AB - Variable drug release from solid oral dosage forms has been an important cause of bioavailability problems in the past, and is a factor now carefully controlled in pharmaceutical products. In two reviews, we describe briefly the composition and manufacture of tablets and capsules, and the two main processes by which they release drugs; disintegration and dissolution. We will explain what is presently understood of the actual mechanisms of drug release and the physico-chemical factors that affect the release process. The strategies adopted by pharmaceutical scientists in designing modern oral solid dose forms to release drugs at reproducible and therapeutically optimal rates will be discussed. Finally, the role of gamma scintigraphy in assessing dosage form performance in vivo will be described. PMID- 2520619 TI - Evaluation of three oral rehydration solutions designed for use in developed communities. AB - One hundred and sixteen children (less than 2 years old) admitted to a London hospital with acute gastroenteritis were randomized to receive either an oral rehydration solution (ORS) with low sodium and high glucose concentration (Na+ 35, glucose 200 mmol/L), an ORS with a high sodium but low glucose concentration (Na+ 60, glucose 111 mmol/L), or an ORS containing glycine and a glucose polymer (Na+ 50, glucose 50, glycine 50 mmol/L). Clinical, biochemical and haematological features of the three groups were similar on admission. Rotavirus was common (31%); the majority of children had minimal dehydration or acid-base disturbance. The clinical outcome, including ORS intake, prevention of dehydration, rehydration, and duration of hospital stay was similar in the three treatment groups. All initial electrolyte abnormalities were corrected; no child developed hypernatraemia or hyponatraemia. At 24 h, the mean serum urea was higher in those who received the ORS containing glycine than in other groups, and it had not fallen significantly since admission. Eighteen per cent of children had carbohydrate intolerance: four children with greater than or equal to 2% reducing substances in their stool had all received ORS with a high glucose content and had numerous watery green stools containing rotavirus. All ORS solutions were safe and effective for rehydration and correction of biochemical abnormalities, however carbohydrate intolerance was more prevalent in children who received the ORS with a high glucose content. PMID- 2520620 TI - Twenty-four-hour intragastric acidity in duodenal ulcer patients during dosing with placebo, and 150 mg ranitidine twice or four times daily. AB - Twenty-four-hour intragastric acidity was measured in 10 patients with a past history of duodenal ulcer on the fourth day of dosing with placebo, and either 150 mg ranitidine given twice or four times daily. The order of the treatments was randomized and a double-blind design was employed. Ranitidine (150 mg) b.d. decreased median integrated 24-h intragastric acidity by 65.1%, nocturnal acidity by 89.1%, and daytime acidity by 54.6% (all P less than 0.01 compared to placebo). The corresponding decreases with 150 mg ranitidine q.d.s. were 62.3, 89.9 and 48.8%, respectively (all P less than 0.01) compared to placebo). There were no significant differences between the two dosage regimens of ranitidine (P greater than 0.05). This study shows that giving extra doses of 150 mg ranitidine during the day does not increase the degree of suppression of intragastric acidity. PMID- 2520621 TI - Acute treatment of reflux oesophagitis: a multicentre trial to compare 150 mg ranitidine b.d. with 300 mg ranitidine q.d.s. AB - H2-receptor antagonists administered in conventional dosage regimens fail to heal a significant proportion of patients with moderate or severe reflux oesophagitis. We have compared the effects of a higher dose of ranitidine (300 mg q.d.s.) with the currently recommended dosage regimen (150 mg b.d.) in 138 patients suffering from reflux oesophagitis. After 4 weeks of treatment 29% of patients who received 150 mg ranitidine b.d., and 63% of patients who received 300 mg ranitidine q.d.s. had complete endoscopic healing of their lesions (P less than 0.0001). After 8 weeks these proportions had increased to 54% and 75%, respectively (P less than 0.01). After 4 weeks of treatment, compete symptomatic relief had been achieved in 46% of patients who received 150 mg ranitidine b.d. and in 67% of patients who received 300 mg ranitidine q.d.s. (P less than 0.05). After 8 weeks these proportions were 64% and 84%, respectively (P less than 0.05). Both dosage schedules were well-tolerated. We conclude that more rapid symptom relief and healing in reflux oesophagitis can be achieved with 300 mg ranitidine q.d.s. than with 150 mg ranitidine b.d. PMID- 2520622 TI - Effects of cimetropium bromide on gastrointestinal transit time in patients with irritable bowel syndrome. AB - Cimetropium bromide is a new antimuscarinic compound with strong antispasmodic activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of oral cimetropium bromide on total gut transit time in patients with irritable bowel syndrome. Forty patients, divided according to their initial total gastrointestinal transit times and presenting symptoms, were treated with cimetropium bromide 50 mg t.d.s. or placebo for 1 month according to a double-blind, parallel group design. Before and after treatment all subjects ingested 24 radio-opaque markers. The total intestinal transit time was determined by evaluating the rate of disappearance of markers from plain X-ray films of the abdomen taken every 24 h for 4 days. Pain and bowel habits were also monitored. Seven patients did not complete the study. Cimetropium bromide significantly (P less than 0.01) shortened the whole gut transit time in patients with prolonged transit time (80.8 +/- 4.0 h before vs 60.8 +/- 6.7 h after treatment) and improved the global clinical condition significantly compared with placebo (P = 0.029). In patients with a short total intestinal transit time, cimetropium bromide had no effect on whole gut transit time and did not significantly improve symptoms. The results of this study indicate that oral cimetropium bromide is effective both objectively and subjectively in a subgroup of irritable bowel syndrome patients with constipation. PMID- 2520623 TI - Inappropriate use of metronidazole in gastrointestinal surgery. AB - Pharmacokinetic data suggest that current treatment regimens of metronidazole in abdominal surgery are not always appropriate. We have examined antibiotic concentrations during emergency and elective surgery using a specific and sensitive high pressure liquid chromatography assay. Serum and tissue concentrations were measured after intravenous infusion during intra-abdominal surgery and after suppositories given before appendicectomy. After intravenous dosage, bactericidal concentrations were reached in serum (13.6 +/- 7.8 micrograms/ml), bowel (9.0 +/- 6.6 micrograms/g), tumour (9.9 +/- 7.1 micrograms/g) and subcutaneous fat (4.9 +/- 3.2 micrograms/g). After suppositories the concentrations were: serum 4.6 +/- 2.7 micrograms/ml, appendix 1.1 +/- 0.6 micrograms/g, fat 1.5 +/- 0.9 micrograms/g and peritoneal fluid 4.7 +/- 4.3 micrograms/g. These values were obtained at a mean interval of 86.9 +/- 27.5 min following administration of the drug. Serum concentrations were measured during post-surgical infusion of 500 mg i.v. 8 or 12 hourly. Mean concentrations after 8 hourly doses were 16.3 +/- 4.85 micrograms/ml pre-dose and 28.7 +/- 6.76 micrograms/ml post-dose, with evidence of drug accumulation by detection of metabolites. Twelve hourly infusions gave pre-dose levels of 7.4 +/- 3.86 micrograms/ml and post-dose levels of 17.1 +/- 3.69 micrograms/ml. Metronidazole (500 mg) intravenously at induction of anaesthetic gives effective prophylactic concentrations in all tissues including tumour, but a metronidazole 1 g suppository before appendicectomy does not provide reliable tissue concentrations. Metronidazole (500 mg) i.v. 12 hourly gives effective bactericidal concentrations of the drug and is more economical. PMID- 2520624 TI - Comparison between single morning and bedtime doses of 40 mg famotidine for the treatment of duodenal ulcer. AB - The aim of this study was to compare the duodenal ulcer healing effects of morning (08.00 hours) vs. single bedtime (22.00 hours) doses of 40 mg famotidine, bearing in mind that the known efficacy of bedtime doses of H2-antagonists is regarded as evidence of the predominance of nocturnal gastric acidity in the pathogenesis of duodenal ulcer. This randomized double-blind multicentre trial was conducted in a total of 127 patients with endoscopically proven active duodenal ulcer. Nine patients dropped out and thus 118 were included in the final analysis. The duration of treatment was 4 weeks, and this was extended to 8 weeks in patients whose ulcers failed to heal by week 4. The patients in the two treatment groups were well matched for age and sex. The therapeutic efficacy parameters were endoscopic healing of the ulcer lesion and disappearance of pain. Results were compared using the chi-square method. The 4- and 8-week (cumulative) ulcer healing rates in the patients treated with the morning dose of famotidine were 77.2% and 86%, respectively, compared with 78.6% and 91.8% in those who received the bedtime dose. The differences failed to prove statistically significant either at week 4 (P = 0.85) or at week 8 (P = 0.31). The percentages of patients with ulcer pain, evaluated weekly, were similar in the two treatment groups. The equivalent efficacy of the morning and bedtime famotidine regimens raises doubts concerning the predominance of nocturnal gastric acidity in the pathogenesis of duodenal ulcer. PMID- 2520625 TI - The effect of secretin on sodium ion absorption by the isolated human gallbladder. AB - Sodium ion (Na+) transport, a principal function of the gallbladder epithelium, was studied by measuring the flux of 22Na across isolated human gallbladder mucosa maintained in a modified 'Ussing' flux chamber. Tissue was obtained from cholecystectomy specimens in symptomatic patients with cholelithiasis. Out of 26 gallbladders studied, 13 had a net Na+ flux from mucosa to serosa which indicated active Na+ absorption. The hormone secretin, when added to the serosal fluid, reversed the direction of net flux in these gallbladders and caused a secretion of Na+ from serosa to mucosa. These results suggest that secretin may be involved in the physiological regulation of fluid transport in the human gallbladder, and also suggest a possible role for this hormone in gallbladder emptying. PMID- 2520626 TI - Automation of the infusion of drugs using feedback control. PMID- 2520627 TI - Microcomputer-controlled administration of vasodilators following cardiac surgery: technical considerations. AB - Hypertension in the early postoperative period after cardiopulmonary bypass is associated with increased morbidity, and is commonly managed by the infusion of short-acting vasodilators. Automatic arterial blood pressure control by closed loop infusion has been shown to be superior to manual control in several studies. The investigators have developed a closed-loop arterial pressure control system based on the Atari 1040ST microcomputer (Atari, Sunnyvale, CA). The program uses a proportional-integral-derivative control algorithm, developed from that described by Sheppard and his colleagues. The arterial waveform is sampled digitally, and the waveform analysis routine incorporates several artifact detection and rejection functions. Additional safety features are provided in the computer-infusion pump subroutine, which cause alarms to be activated if computer pump communication fails to occur within a specified time period. A novel feature of this system is the clinical staff's use of a "mouse" to enter data and control the program, which makes keyboard skills unnecessary. This system is in routine service in the cardiac intensive care unit (CICU), both for direct clinical use and for research into various aspects of arterial pressure control, and has proved to be acceptable to the clinical staff. PMID- 2520629 TI - Pro: the EEG should be monitored during cardiopulmonary bypass. PMID- 2520628 TI - Case 1989-1. A 55-year-old male undergoing CABG develops severe bronchospasm at the end of cardiopulmonary bypass. PMID- 2520630 TI - Con: the EEG should not be monitored during cardiopulmonary bypass. PMID- 2520631 TI - Arterial puncture during venous cannulation. PMID- 2520632 TI - Where to sample during cardiopulmonary bypass. PMID- 2520633 TI - Comparison among manual, computer-assisted, and closed-loop control of blood pressure after cardiac surgery. AB - Forty-five patients who required vasodilator therapy for systemic arterial hypertension following cardiac surgery were randomly allocated to receive: (1) manual control of a sodium nitroprusside (SNP) infusion; (2) computer-assisted control where the nurse was provided with a color graphical display of performance; or (3) automatic closed-loop control. Limits of acceptable systolic pressure were prescribed for each patient, and the percentage time spent outside these limits was calculated for each patient. The closed-loop computer system (CLCS) produced significantly better control than either manual or computer assisted systems for the time spent outside the prescribed limits (P less than 0.001), and better control for the time spent outside the limits +/- 10 mmHg (manual P less than 0.001; assisted P less than 0.01). While the CLCS proved more satisfactory than manual control for the limits +/- 20 mmHg and +/- 30 mmHg (+/- 20 mmHg P less than 0.001; +/- 30 mmHg P less than 0.01), there was no significant difference in the quality of control between the CLCS and computer assisted systems for these limits. The results suggest that the quality of blood pressure control achieved by nurses can be improved by providing them with a clear graphical display of their performance. Better control of blood pressure should reduce the adverse effects of hypotension and hypertension following cardiac surgery. PMID- 2520636 TI - The relevance of intraoperative pressure and oxygen saturation monitoring during pulmonary artery banding in infancy. AB - Different methods have been used to define an effective and tolerable degree of pulmonary artery banding (PAB) intraoperatively. As the hemodynamic response determines the results, a reduction of risk could be expected by evaluating several selected parameters and adjusting the band accordingly. Between 1981 and 1986, PAB was performed in 12 infants, three with complex cardiac lesions and nine with complete atrioventricular canal defects. Pressures in the distal pulmonary artery, in a systemic artery or the aorta, and in a central vein were monitored, and oxygen saturation measurements in both great arteries were taken before, during, and after the procedure. Adequate, complicated, intolerable, and contraindicated constriction were recognized and shown on characteristic pressure traces and oxygen saturation shifts. The measurements provided an indirect but reliable indication of the change in intracardiac shunting, and predicted whether the banding would be hemodynamically tolerated. Postoperatively, ten of the infants improved significantly, especially the seven infants previously in a low cardiac output state. One infant died on the day of surgery from acute right heart failure (8% hospital mortality). The results suggest that hemodynamically controlled PAB is an effective palliative treatment with a lower risk than had been previously reported. PMID- 2520635 TI - Pulse oximetry for evaluation of radial and ulnar arterial blood flow. AB - This study was designed to assess the use of pulse oximetry (PO) to determine the adequacy of radial and ulnar arterial blood flow by comparing measurements of digital arterial hemoglobin oxygen saturation (SaO2) with conventional visual determination of palmar flush (PF) using a simple occlusion test (SOT) or the Allen's test (AT) in 48 healthy volunteers. Baseline SaO2 values ranged from 94% to 100% with a mean saturation of 97.2%. Eight subjects with initially abnormal reperfusion times were re-evaluated. Of those eight subjects, three remained abnormal. The predictability of an abnormal reperfusion time based on pretesting history was very low. AT reperfusion times as measured by PO and PF showed excellent correlation (r = 0.882). The SOT does not require subject cooperation and provides information similar to the AT. PO, whether combined with the AT or the SOT, has the distinct advantage of providing objective data. PMID- 2520634 TI - A comparison of radial, brachial, and aortic pressures after cardiopulmonary bypass. AB - Previous investigations have identified falsely low radial artery pressures after cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). The present study investigates the relationship among radial, brachial, and aortic arterial pressures in 33 cardiac surgical patients following CPB. Two minutes after separation from CPB, clinically important (greater than or equal to 10 mmHg) underestimation of systolic aortic pressures occurred in 17 of 33 (52%) radial artery catheters, while occurring in seven of 33 (21%) brachial artery catheters. Radial artery mean pressure underestimated aortic mean pressure by greater than or equal to 5 mmHg in 21 of 33 (61%) patients two minutes after CPB, while an equivalent aortic-to-brachial artery mean arterial pressure difference occurred in nine of 33 (27%) patients. The incidence of aortic-to-radial mean arterial pressure differences greater than or equal to 5 mmHg decreased to 40% (four of ten patients) by ten minutes after CPB, although interpretation is complicated by decreased availability of aortic pressure measurements. Multivariate analysis failed to identify factors predisposed to central-to-peripheral pressure gradients. Radial and brachial arterial pressures were compared both before and after CPB in all 33 patients. Brachial artery systolic and mean pressures were higher than corresponding radial artery measurements two minutes after CPB (P less than 0.05), followed by gradual resumption of a normal brachial-to-radial pressure relationship over 60 minutes. Either vasospasm in the brachial and radial arteries or profound arteriolar vasodilation in the upper extremity might cause the observed central-to peripheral arterial pressure differences. The progressive central-to-peripheral decrease in mean arterial pressure favors the latter mechanism.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2520637 TI - The effect of histamine-receptor blockade on the hemodynamic responses to protamine. AB - A prospective randomized study was undertaken to evaluate the use of histamine receptor blockade to prevent protamine-induced hypotension in patients undergoing elective aortocoronary artery bypass graft surgery. Normotensive patients with good left ventricular function who did not receive vasoactive or inotropic agents after cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) were allocated to either a study or a control group. After CPB, patients in the study group received 10 mg of chlorpheniramine, and 400 mg of cimetidine, intravenously, five minutes before infusion of protamine. In both groups, protamine was injected via a central venous cannula at 2.5 mg/sec. Hypotension in the control group was significantly more severe and prolonged than in the study group. Systolic and mean arterial blood pressures in the control group fell 35% and 34%, differing significantly (P less than 0.01) from the study group in whom the reduction was 24% for both systolic and mean pressures. In addition, the control group showed significant falls in central venous pressure and increases in heart rate following protamine. In conclusion, it appears that the hemodynamic changes are only partially mediated through histamine action, and the normal response to protamine may be modified, but not abolished, by H1 and H2 receptor blockade. This blockade may, however, prevent the reduction in right heart preload and increase in heart rate following protamine. PMID- 2520638 TI - Microprocessor-controlled hemodynamics: a step towards improved efficiency and safety. AB - Manual titration of sodium nitroprusside (SNP) is widely used for treatment of hypertension following cardiac surgery. This study compared conventional manual control with control by a research prototype of an automatic infusion module based on a proportional plus integral plus derivative (PID) negative feedback loop. Two groups of coronary artery bypass patients requiring SNP for postoperative hypertension were studied prospectively. In the first group, hypertension was controlled by manual adjustment of the SNP infusion rate, and in the second, the infusion rate was controlled automatically. The actual and desired mean arterial pressures (MAP) over consecutive ten-second epochs were recorded during the period of infusion. The MAP was maintained within 10% of the desired MAP 45.8% of the time in the manual group, compared with 90.0% in the automatic group, and the mean percent error in the automatic group was significantly less than in the manual group (P less than 0.01). It is concluded that adoption of such systems will result in improved patient safety and may facilitate more effective distribution of nursing staff within intensive care units. PMID- 2520639 TI - Sinus node function and protamine sulfate. AB - This report analyzes the effects of protamine sulfate (PS) on the heart rate and sinoatrial node function in dogs anesthetized with diazepam, fentanyl, and pancuronium bromide, and subjected to different modalities of extracorporeal circulation (ECC). All groups were given 3 mg/kg of heparin sodium and 5 mg/kg of PS. The sinus node function was evaluated by means of sinoatrial conduction time (SACT), absolute sinus node recovery time (SNRTa), and corrected sinus node recovery time (SNRTc). The spontaneous heart rate (HR) of the animals was also analyzed. Under the experimental conditions established in this study, the intravenous administration of a bolus of PS produced a decrease in the HR in all the groups, regardless of the type of ECC used. The modifications in the conduction and recovery times of the sinus node by PS did not correlate with those of the heart rate; the sinoatrial conduction time increased in groups subjected to ECC, while the absolute and corrected recovery times of the sinus node were prolonged only in the group that underwent rapid rewarming. PMID- 2520640 TI - Cardiovascular effects of a nifedipine infusion during fentanyl-nitrous oxide anesthesia in dogs. AB - The hemodynamic effects of a nifedipine infusion were investigated in eight dogs given fentanyl/pancuronium/nitrous oxide/oxygen anesthesia. Nifedipine (20 micrograms/kg) was given intravenously over two minutes immediately prior to each 30-minute infusion at 2 micrograms/kg/min, 4 micrograms/kg/min, and 6 micrograms/kg/min. The range of plasma nifedipine levels obtained was 52.1 to 113.7 ng/mL. The predominant hemodynamic effects were significant reductions in systemic vascular resistance (SVR) and mean aortic pressure (MAP), accompanied by a rise in cardiac index and heart rate (HR). Administration of calcium chloride (20 mg/kg) after the nifedipine infusion had no effect on SVR or MAP, but HR was significantly reduced. Serum epinephrine and norepinephrine levels increased after the infusion of nifedipine and suggested that fentanyl did not completely overcome the sympathetic response to the profound vasodilatation. The resulting tachycardia in combination with diastolic hypotension from nifedipine could have a detrimental effect on the myocardial oxygen balance. PMID- 2520642 TI - The quotient of mean arterial pressure and heart rate predicts hypoperfusion of collateral-dependent myocardium. AB - This study tested the hypothesis that the quotient of mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) (pressure divided by rate = PRQ) effectively predicts myocardial hypoperfusion in regions of myocardium supplied with blood via collateral vessels. Regression analysis of data gathered in a study of the effects of halothane and atrial pacing on the distribution of myocardial blood flow has discovered a strong relationship between the PRQ and the inner-to-outer flow ratio in the collateral-dependent zone (R = 0.78). A significant relationship was also found between PRQ and the ratio of subendocardial blood flow in the ischemic zone to subendocardial flow in the normally perfused zone (R = 0.61). These ratios demonstrate that hypoperfusion of the inner layers of the collateral-dependent zone occurred during the condition of hypotension combined with tachycardia; while normal flow distribution was present if MAP exceeded HR. Halothane (1% end-tidal) did not alter the distribution of coronary flow, indicating that halothane does not cause a coronary steal in this model. The results of this study support the concept that the PRQ is an effective predictor of myocardial hypoperfusion when flow to ischemic zones is delivered by collateral vessels in nonfailing, canine hearts. PMID- 2520641 TI - Effects of nifedipine on the hemodynamic response to clamping and declamping of the abdominal aorta in dogs. AB - Clamping and declamping of the infrarenal abdominal aorta may adversely affect cardiovascular function, particularly in the presence of heart disease. This effect may be further altered by drugs used in the treatment of symptomatic coronary artery disease. The effect of nifedipine on the hemodynamic response to aortic clamping and declamping was determined in 12 dogs anesthetized with 50% nitrous oxide and 0.6% end-tidal isoflurane and monitored with aortic, left ventricular (LV), and thermodilution pulmonary artery catheters. Six dogs received a nifedipine bolus of 100 micrograms/kg followed by an infusion of 4 micrograms/kg/min. Six dogs did not receive any nifedipine and served as controls. Before clamping, nifedipine produced immediate decreases in arterial pressure, systemic vascular resistance (SVR), and LV dP/dt, and a modest increase in cardiac output (CO). During aortic clamping, nifedipine-treated dogs demonstrated marked increases in heart rate (HR), dP/dt, and CO while maintaining a low SVR. There were no significant changes upon declamping. The nifedipine treated animals maintained a high CO and low SVR. Thus, nifedipine greatly altered the hemodynamic responses to aortic clamping and declamping. Awareness of these alterations is important when caring for patients being treated with nifedipine who are undergoing aortic surgery. PMID- 2520644 TI - Direct cannulation of myocardial blood vessels without interfering with regional blood flow distribution, resting blood flow, or reactive hyperemia. AB - An in vivo technique of directly cannulating coronary arteries and veins for sampling blood and measuring hemodynamic parameters is described. The cannulation procedure was evaluated for its effects on regional myocardial blood flow (RMBF), transmural RMBF distribution, and reactive hyperemia. In a group of ten dogs, RMBF was measured by using radionuclide microspheres. Values for left anterior descending (LAD) perfusion zone (with catheter) and circumflex (CX) zone (no catheter) did not differ significantly (119 +/- 14 mL/min/100 g v 123 +/- 14 mL/min/100 g, respectively). Likewise, endocardial-to-epicardial RMBF ratio was similar for the two areas (0.99 +/- 0.06 and 1.04 +/- 0.06, respectively). In five dogs, aortic and left ventricular pressures agreed closely with the LAD coronary artery pressure measured with the described catheter system. Arterial flow during rest and reactive hyperemia was measured in five additional dogs by using electromagnetic flow probes placed around the LAD and CX coronary arteries. During both rest and reactive hyperemia, flow was greater in the CX than in the LAD (65.46 +/- 4.12 and 169.62 +/- 9.04 in the CX v 30.24 +/- 0.78 and 102.28 +/- 5.38 in the LAD; P less than 0.05 for both); however, the percentage change from rest to reactive hyperemia was similar for both vessels. In each perfusion zone, flow during rest and reactive hyperemia and the percentage change were not affected by cannulation. The effects of an infusion of adenosine (20 to 40 micrograms/min) into the pulmonary artery with and without the LAD coronary catheters (artery and vein) were tested in six other dogs.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2520643 TI - Myocardial contractility, blood flow, and oxygen consumption in healthy dogs during anesthesia with isoflurane or enflurane. AB - Left ventricular contractility (Vmax), myocardial blood flow (MBF), and oxygen consumption (O2C) were determined together with systemic hemodynamic parameters in a total of 21 mongrel dogs. Baseline recordings were obtained under basal anesthetic conditions with a narcotic (piritramid, IV). In the control group (n = 7), recordings were obtained during a three-hour observation period with infusion of piritramid. In experimental groups measurements were repeated with equi anesthetic concentrations of isoflurane (0.7 and 1.4 vol%; n = 8) and enflurane (1.1 and 2.2 vol%; n = 6). Dose-dependent reductions of arterial pressure, cardiac output (CO) and peripheral vascular resistance were observed with isoflurane and enflurane. CO at the higher anesthetic level was depressed significantly more with enflurane. This difference was obviously due to a more severe depression of myocardial contractility with enflurane; Vmax was decreased by 18% and 26% with enflurane, but only by 10% and 17% with isoflurane (P less than 0.01). MBF and the fraction of CO received by the heart were increased above their baseline values with both concentrations of isoflurane. In contrast, the fraction of CO remained constant with enflurane while MBF decreased. O2C was reduced due to decreases of afterload and left ventricular contractility. The reduction was greater with enflurane than with isoflurane. All parameters remained unchanged in the control group. The results of this study indicate that the most striking difference in the actions of isoflurane and enflurane on cardiac parameters is on myocardial vascular resistance; MBF is increased with isoflurane, but is decreased with enflurane although myocardial perfusion pressure is reduced by almost identical amounts.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2520645 TI - Transesophageal echocardiographic monitoring of an intraventricular foreign body. PMID- 2520646 TI - Cerebral blood flow during cardiopulmonary bypass in a patient with occlusive cerebrovascular disease. PMID- 2520647 TI - Lessons from studying an infrequent event: adverse hemodynamic response associated with protamine reversal of heparin anticoagulation. PMID- 2520648 TI - Monitoring technology: advances and restraints. PMID- 2520649 TI - A comparison of two pulmonary artery mixed venous oxygen saturation catheters during the changing conditions of cardiac surgery. AB - Continuous mixed venous oxygen saturation (SvO2), using modified pulmonary artery (PA) catheters, can assist in the management of cardiac surgery patients. Two FDA approved catheters are available for SvO2 monitoring. One system uses two wavelengths of light and the other is a three-wavelength system. The present study was designed to determine the accuracy of the two catheters during cardiac surgery. Sixty-five consecutive patients were assigned to one of the two catheter groups. Data were collected pre- and post-induction, after sternotomy, and after extracorporeal circulation. An updated hematocrit was entered in the two wavelength system preceding the last two measurements. Patient demographics, severity of preoperative cardiac disease, and intraoperative hemodynamics were comparable between groups. Two-wavelength determinations varied inconsistently from cooximeter values, while three-wavelength measurements did not differ significantly. Changes in hematocrit were responsible in part for the variability in two-wavelength measurements. In summary, three-wavelength measurements by the Shaw system were more accurate than two-wavelength measurements by the Edwards system. PMID- 2520650 TI - The cost-effectiveness of Oximetrix pulmonary artery catheters in the postoperative care of coronary artery bypass graft patients. AB - As cost-containment pressures continue to escalate in the health care industry, the cost-effectiveness of new technologies must be verified if their use in the care of patients is to be justified. Oximetrix fiberoptic pulmonary artery catheters (Abbott Critical Care Systems, North Chicago, IL) are used for the continuous measurement of mixed venous oxygen saturation, and have been promoted as a cost-effective, early, and accurate indicator of hemodynamic changes in critically ill patients and patients undergoing major surgical procedures. This retrospective study analyzed two groups of patients undergoing routine, elective coronary artery bypass grafting. In the first group, fiberoptic catheters were not used, whereas these catheters were used routinely in the second group. Multiple variables were analyzed in each group in an attempt to document cost effectiveness or salutary effect on outcome as a result of the use of these catheters. Neither could be confirmed. It was concluded that the use of Oximetrix pulmonary artery catheters is not cost-effective and had no effect on outcome in this group of patients. PMID- 2520651 TI - Determination of right ventricular volumes during aortic surgery. AB - The aim of the present study was to evaluate right ventricular (RV) preload by measurements of right ventricular volumes during aortic clamping and unclamping. Nine patients (aged 67 +/- 9 years) undergoing infrarenal aortic aneurysmectomy were monitored with a pulmonary artery catheter equipped with a fast-response thermistor, allowing determination of RV volumes by the thermodilution technique. Anesthesia consisted of a continuous infusion of alfentanil and 50% N2O. Aortic clamping resulted in a significant decrease in cardiac index (CI) and a significant increase in systemic vascular resistance (SVR). There was no significant change in right ventricular ejection fraction (RVEF) (from 35% +/- 6% to 33% +/- 8%) in the presence of a significant decrease in stroke index (from 37.2 +/- 9.8 to 31.1 +/- 10.0 mL/beat/m2, P less than 0.05), indicating a significant decrease in RV end-diastolic volume (from 106 +/- 17 to 92 +/- 19 mL, P less than 0.01). There were no significant changes in cardiac filling pressures. Aortic unclamping was associated with a significant increase in CI and a significant decrease in SVR. There were no significant changes in cardiac filling pressures, RVEF, or RV volumes. Measurements of RV volumes indicated that aortic clamping resulted in a decrease in RV preload, which is usually not demonstrated by measurements of right atrial pressure alone. PMID- 2520652 TI - Clinical correlates of dysrhythmias requiring an esophageal ECG for accurate diagnosis in patients with congenital heart disease. AB - Esophageal electrocardiography (EsECG) is a useful adjunct in the diagnosis of dysrhythmias that are difficult to diagnose with a conventional ECG. This study was designed to evaluate which type of dysrhythmias required the EsECG for proper diagnosis and what factors produced the rhythm problems. Sixty-eight pediatric patients undergoing cardiac surgery were studied. After release of the aortic cross-clamp, the cardiac rhythm was analyzed by a standard limb-lead ECG at five minute intervals. Twenty-six of 68 patients exhibited rhythms during reperfusion that required the EsECG for definitive diagnosis. This group of patients was younger, had longer durations of cardiopulmonary bypass and aortic occlusion, and required more time and interventions to achieve a normal sinus rhythm. The likelihood of difficult dysrhythmias was not related to the type of surgical procedure performed. PMID- 2520653 TI - The effect of a standardized premedication on oxygen saturation in the cardiac patient before transfer to the operating room. AB - The effect of premedication with morphine and scopolamine on arterial hemoglobin oxygen saturation (SaO2) was measured continuously in 26 undisturbed patients in their hospital rooms before coronary artery bypass surgery. Two hours preoperatively each patient received morphine, 0.1 mg/kg, and scopolamine, 0.2 or 0.4 mg. SaO2 was continuously recorded using pulse oximetry from one-half hour before premedication until 1 1/2 hours after premedication. The lowest SaO2 measured both the evening before surgery and one-half hour before premedication was 95% +/- 0.5% (mean +/- SEM). After administration of premedication, the lowest SaO2 for the patient population decreased to 93% +/- 0.4% (P less than 0.001 compared with that before premedication), and occurred 52 +/- 2 minutes after premedication was given. Two patients (8%) had an SaO2 less than 90% (lowest SaO2 for both was 88%). It is concluded that the dose of morphine/scopolamine premedication used was associated with a low risk of clinically important hypoxemia in the patient population studied. PMID- 2520654 TI - The effect of ventilation on aortic blood gases during left ventricular ejection before separation from cardiopulmonary bypass. AB - The time to begin ventilating a cardiac surgical patient recovering from hyperkalemic arrest is controversial. Those who advocate ventilating as soon as the left ventricle begins to eject believe that blood ejected from the left ventricle is likely to be hypoxic since it perfuses collapsed, nonventilated alveoli and that this may be the major blood supply perfusing the coronary arteries. The present study attempts to answer this question by sampling blood gases from the aorta in proximity to the coronary ostia in patients both before and after ventilation. Ten patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting using the left internal mammary artery were studied. Each patient served as his own control. Distal anastomoses were placed under hyperkalemic, hypothermic cardiac arrest. The aorta was unclamped, and an intrinsic or paced heart rate of 70 beats per minute was achieved. The heart was allowed to eject to a pulse pressure of 20 to 40 mmHg. Rectal temperatures were between 32 degrees C and 34 degrees C. Blood gases were drawn simultaneously from the proximal aortic root, radial artery, pulmonary artery, and the venous circuit of the cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) machine. The lungs were then twice inflated with a sustained positive pressure of 30 cm H2O, and the patient was ventilated (10 mL/kg tidal volume, FIO2 1.0, 10 breaths per minute) for two minutes. Another set of blood gases was then obtained. Filling pressures, aortic systolic and diastolic pressures, and CPB flows were kept constant for both sets of samples. There was no significant difference in aortic root PaO2 attributable to ventilation. PCO2 was significantly lower, and pH was significantly higher in the ventilated group.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2520655 TI - Altered concentrations of terminal complement complexes, anaphylatoxins, and leukotrienes in the coronary sinus during cardiopulmonary bypass. AB - The aim of this study was to determine if the hypoperfused heart activates complement with formation of anaphylatoxins, terminal complement complexes (TCC), or leukotrienes during cardiopulmonary bypass. Fifteen patients undergoing elective cardiopulmonary bypass surgery were studied regarding complement and leukotriene activation. Blood samples were drawn serially from the radial artery and coronary sinus. The plasma concentrations of the complement components C1INH, C3, C4, and C5 decreased during the procedure, whereas C3a and TCC increased. Protamine reversal of heparin further increased the plasma levels of C3a and TCC. No significant changes in plasma levels of C5a and leukotriene C4 were observed during cardiopulmonary bypass. The activity of the anaphylatoxin inactivator (AI) decreased in both the radial artery and the coronary sinus. There were no significant differences between the concentrations of complement components and leukotriene C4 in blood from the radial artery and coronary sinus. The levels of C3a and TCC increased and C1INH, C3, C4, C5, and the anaphylatoxin inactivator activity decreased to the same extent in the coronary sinus and the radial artery. Thus, the heart does not appear to be the primary site for the altered concentrations of these endogenous vasoactive substances. PMID- 2520656 TI - Myocardial oxygen balance and cardiopulmonary bypass in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting. AB - The frequency of anaerobic myocardial metabolism was studied in 14 patients undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery during enflurane-supplemented high-dose fentanyl anesthesia and compared with other clinical monitors of myocardial ischemia including the configuration of the pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) and electrocardiographic findings. Hemodynamic parameters, coronary sinus blood flow, myocardial oxygen and lactate extractions, and a seven-lead ECG were recorded before and after cannulation of the aorta and vena cava, during total cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) in a vented heart, during rewarming after global myocardial ischemia and cold cardioplegia, and 15 minutes after coming off bypass. The cannulation for CPB induced no changes in the central or coronary hemodynamics, but four patients had abnormal lactate metabolism. Two of these also had ST segment depression, and two had prominent AC waves on the PCWP tracing. Coronary sinus blood flow and myocardial oxygen extraction were maintained at the beginning of CPB, but lactate extraction decreased markedly or turned to lactate production, and ECG changes indicating myocardial ischemia were seen in five patients. During rewarming and after CPB, all patients had abnormal lactate metabolism despite decreased myocardial oxygen extraction, adequate coronary perfusion pressure, and adequate coronary sinus blood flow. During these periods most patients also had cardiac conduction disturbances that made the interpretation of the ST segment impossible. Only one patient had clearly abnormal AC and V waves on the PCWP tracing after CPB. Two patients had ECG evidence of a perioperative myocardial infarction, but they had no significant clinical consequences. Four patients had a fascicular block at discharge. These results indicate that anaerobic myocardial metabolism is common during and after CPB, and that associated myocardial ischemia cannot always be reliably detected by changes in the ECG or the PCWP tracings. PMID- 2520657 TI - Lactate extraction fails to accurately reflect regional lactate production in ischemic myocardium. AB - Lactate extraction (defined as arteriovenous lactate concentration difference divided by arterial concentration and expressed as a percent) is often reported as the indicator of anaerobic cardiac metabolism in studies dealing with myocardial ischemia. However, lactate extraction ignores the effect of regional blood flow and, therefore, fails to consider the total mass of lactate consumed or produced (lactate flux). This study examined the relationship between lactate flux and calculated lactate extraction. Fourteen anesthetized dogs were instrumented to allow sampling of blood from the left anterior descending coronary artery (LADa) and vein (LADv) and a circumflex coronary vein (CFXv), as well as measurement of regional myocardial blood flow (RMBF) using microspheres, and measurement of systemic hemodynamic variables. Complete data sets (before LADa occlusion, after 15 minutes of LAD occlusion, and after 1 hour of reperfusion) were obtained in nine dogs. Only minor systemic hemodynamic changes occurred during LADa occlusion when compared with "before" and "after" values. Likewise, LADa occlusion produced only minor alterations in blood gas tensions, pH, concentrations of glucose, lactate, and RMBF in samples from the CFX perfusion zone. In contrast, LAD occlusion decreased RMBF in the LADa perfusion zone and produced significant hypercarbia and acidemia, as well as an increased LADv lactate concentration. In the LAD zone, lactate extraction decreased significantly from 15.9% +/- 7.0% before LAD occlusion to -77.4% +/- 21.8% during LAD occlusion (P less than 0.05). However, lactate flux (arteriovenous concentration difference x RMBF) in the LAD zone before and during LAD occlusion was not statistically significantly different (1.3 +/- 0.8 mg/min/100 g and -1.5 +/- 0.8 mg/min/100 g, respectively).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2520658 TI - Transthoracic pacing for the treatment of severe bradycardia during induction of anesthesia. PMID- 2520659 TI - An unusual cause of inability to float a pulmonary artery catheter. PMID- 2520660 TI - Williams syndrome: an uncommon cause of supravalvular aortic stenosis in a child. PMID- 2520661 TI - Prolonged hypotension secondary to mesenteric traction during a transabdominal approach to a thoracoabdominal aneurysm. PMID- 2520662 TI - Nicardipine, a new intravenous calcium antagonist: a review of its pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and perioperative applications. PMID- 2520663 TI - Hemodynamic monitoring in anesthesiology--past, present and future. PMID- 2520664 TI - Case 1989-3. A 33-year-old woman develops a "stone heart" and is successfully treated with magnesium. PMID- 2520665 TI - Pro: transesophageal echocardiography is the "gold standard" for detection of myocardial ischemia. AB - Transesophageal 2-D echocardiography is a superior method for detection of intraoperative myocardial ischemia. It will detect myocardial ischemia earlier and more consistently than the traditional intraoperative monitors. Therefore, this highly sophisticated imaging technique will become an important new tool for anesthesiologists. PMID- 2520666 TI - Con: transesophageal echocardiography is not the "gold standard" for detection of myocardial ischemia. PMID- 2520667 TI - Absence of lung water after bypass. PMID- 2520668 TI - [Osseointegrated implants: general considerations, location and clinical applications. 1]. PMID- 2520669 TI - Identification of Shiga-like toxin in Escherichia coli strains, etiological agents of diarrheal disease. AB - Shiga-like toxin presence, in 20 E. coli strains, etiological agents of diarrheal diseases, is studied by preparing extracts at +4 degrees C, in the presence of chloroform and by i.v. inoculation in mice. In 4 out of 20 strains, Shiga-like toxin in high titres was identified. Most of the strains presented an inconstant and variable production of Shiga-like toxin in comparison with Shigella dysenteriae type 1 (Shiga) reference strain. The authors also confirm the existence of Shiga-like toxin under 2 forms (neutralizable with Shiga antitoxic serum and non-neutralizable). The importance of the obtained results is further discussed from the point of view of pathogeny and diagnosis of the infections produced by these germs. PMID- 2520670 TI - Reaction and response of newborn guinea pigs to experimental Salmonella typhi infection. AB - Newborn guinea pigs, orally infected with Salmonella typhi were examined at various intervals of time in order to determine bacterial distribution in tissues and to establish possible correlation with the clinical aspects manifested. Histopathological examination evidenced typical lesions in jejunum, ileum, caecum and especially in regional lymphatic tissues. Spleen, liver and mesenteric lymph nodes presented granulomatous lesions similar to those observed in in human typhoid fever. After oral administration, the animals reacted with anorexia, febrile reactions, bacteremia, diarrhoea, positive stool cultures, dehydration, lethargy and antibodies too were produced. Our results indicate that typhoid infection may be induced in newborn guinea pigs; the model may be used for an assessment of attenuated live typhoid vaccine control. PMID- 2520671 TI - Activation of guinea pig peritoneal macrophages by ribosomal extract of Salmonella typhi strain. Electron microscopy studies. AB - Normal macrophages and Salmonella typhi ribosomal antigen-activated (immune) ones were studied by electron microscopy. Examination of fine sections from samples incubated between 30 and 120 minutes at 37 degrees C, emphasized phagocytic ability of activated macrophages (29-69% activated macrophages phagocytized 3.7 5.6 bacteria/cell, in contrast to 23-43% with 2.6-4.4 bacteria/phagocytized by non-immune cells). The ultrastructural studies of activated macrophages, performed by electron microscopy, showed the following aspects: a) macrophages with pseudopodiform prolongations, presenting the tendency of bacterial sequestration: b) phagosomes with ingested virulent germs; c). bacteria presenting various degrees of wall and cytoplasm alterations; d). mitochondria with multiple cristae; e). cells with well developed Golgi apparatus and the presence of lysosomes in great numbers; f). existence of a space between the phagosome membrane and the bacterial wall. Experimental results demonstrated: I. an increased phagocytic activity of Salmonella typhi ribosomal antigen-activated macrophages and II. activation expressed as ultrastructural modifications at the level of immune macrophages and also of the bacteria phagocytized by them. PMID- 2520672 TI - Presence of Yersinia specific antibodies in hospitalized patients with arthritis and Reiter syndrome. AB - A number of 50 patients admitted with arthritis and Reiter syndrome were investigated to detect the presence of Yersinia specific antibodies. The specific antibodies were evidenced in 5 patients (10%)--3 with antibodies to Y. enterocolitica and 2 with antibodies to Y. pseudotuberculosis, in titers greater than or equal to 1/160. The patients were followed in dynamics up to 3-4 months. The antibodies to Y. enterocolitica persisted in time longer than those to Y. pseudotuberculosis. For a better knowledge concerning the germs responsible for sero-negative arthritis, serological investigations for Yersinia, in the patients with arthritis, appeared as necessary. PMID- 2520673 TI - "Orostim"--polymicrobial preparation for oral administration. I. "In vivo" determination of toxicity and of inborn resistance stimulation characteristic. AB - "Orostim" is a polymicrobial immunomodulator for oral administration, obtained from bacterial suspensions, disintegrated by ultrasonics and dried by atomization. The preparation was chemically characterized before and after atomization without presenting essential modifications. Orostim was not shown to be toxic in mice and rats by esophageal intubation, as long as 20 days. The animals presented normal evolution; hemoleukograms, serum proteins and alkaline phosphatase, in rats, did not present significant modifications in comparison with controls. Histopathologic examination of the organs, obtained from mice, treated for 20 days (liver, spleen, lung) did not emphasize modifications in comparison with controls. Circulating neutrophils phagocytosis in rabbits, orally treated with Orostim, was increased as compared to 0 time; serum complement values decreased compared to the initial ones for 0 time but turned to normal and reached even superior limits, 10 days after the treatment ending. PMID- 2520674 TI - Incidence of trypanosomes in settled Fulani cattle in the Anambra State, southern Nigeria. AB - The incidence of trypanosomes in Fulani Zebu cattle settled in the Anambra State in southern Nigeria for at least three continuous years was found significantly higher than incidence in northern Nigeria. Despite this situation the cattle in the Anambra State were reported to show better reproductive performance, generally looked healthier and more robust than cattle in northern Nigeria. Presence of tsetse flies or trypanosomes per se appears not to constitute a complete hindrance to cattle production in a given zone. The result was discussed. PMID- 2520675 TI - Toxoplasmosis prevalence parasitologically evaluated in meat animals. AB - The frequency of Toxoplasma gondii infection in the meat provided by two abattoirs, as well as the pathogenicity of the isolated strains were studied. The parasite carriage was investigated on 299 pools of diaphragmatic muscle (1 pool = 10 animals) from 740 swine, 910 cattle and 1340 sheep: the methods used were bioassays on mice and the precocious identification of the tachyzoites in the peritoneal exudate and after 30 days the cerebral cysts. There were obtained 27 positive results (9.01%), in the examined pools of meat, without significant differences as concerns the frequency in relation to the animal species. Out of these strains two were virulent for mice and rabbits. PMID- 2520677 TI - E.P. Pope Memorial Award to Dr. Glenn H. Snoeyenbos. PMID- 2520676 TI - Biochemical evidence that the DLA-B locus codes for a class II determinant expressed on all canine peripheral blood lymphocytes. AB - We have analyzed the products of the canine DLA-B gene locus by biochemical and serological methods. Due to its ubiquitous expression on lymphocytes this antigen series was thought to be of class I nature. However, by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and lysostrip experiments we could unequivocally identify the DLA B antigens as typical class II gene products. The serological polymorphism is caused by the beta-chain, whereas the alpha-chain appears invariant. The presence of these class II gene products on almost all lymphocytes in the dog is in sharp contrast to the numerous reports on their restricted expression in other mammalia such as man and mouse. PMID- 2520678 TI - [The importance of the seat belt]. PMID- 2520679 TI - Importance of bone fractures in the lower extremities of killed pedestrians from the aspect of forensic medicine. PMID- 2520681 TI - [The variation in carbon monoxide release in the blood stain and in visceral tissues]. PMID- 2520680 TI - Anatomoclinical correlations in cranio-cerebral thanatogenerating traumatisms. PMID- 2520682 TI - Myocardial haemorrhagic necrosis in delayed death from electrocution. PMID- 2520684 TI - [The diagnostic limits of the blood ionogram. A comparison in drowning]. PMID- 2520683 TI - Serum LDH isoenzyme changes after organic solvent inhalation. PMID- 2520685 TI - [The determination of strontium as an element in the forensic medical diagnosis of drowning]. PMID- 2520686 TI - [Hybrid isoelectric focusing with pH gradients. A new method for the differential diagnosis between ante- and postmortem injuries]. PMID- 2520687 TI - [Epiglottic lesion, a probable in vivo reaction during hanging]. PMID- 2520689 TI - [Fatal poisonings in Hungary]. PMID- 2520688 TI - [The clinical and computed tomographic aspects of carbon monoxide poisoning based on the experience of the Poison Control Center of Tunis]. PMID- 2520690 TI - Immunocytochemical diagnosis of early ischaemic/hypoxic damage in myocardium. PMID- 2520691 TI - Morphological diagnosis of sudden cardiac death. AB - The study reveals preliminary results of a bilateral project involving the Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Copenhagen (Denmark) and the Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Granada (Spain). Morphological findings were compared to the results of thanatochemical analyses of pericardial fluid and myocardium in the same cases of sudden death of cardiac origin. Fifty cases were included, and the results of the macroscopic, histochemical, histological and cytological examinations revealed that the NBT test and microscopy are valuable methods in diagnosing infarctions, while cytological examination of pericardial fluid seems to be of no value. PMID- 2520692 TI - [Hybrid isoelectric focusing with immobilized pH gradients: its application to tissue identification]. PMID- 2520693 TI - Diagnosis of sudden cardiac death. Analysis of morphological and biochemical methods. PMID- 2520694 TI - Analysis of the results of the cooperative study between the Granada and Copenhagen University Institutes of Forensic Medicine. PMID- 2520695 TI - Sudden cardiac death in young people. PMID- 2520696 TI - A statistical study of sudden cardiac death for past five years in Osaka medical, investigated at the Osaka Medical Examiner's Office. AB - From 1982 to 1986, there were 1230 sudden death cases autopsied in Osaka Medical Examiner's Office. Among them, 810 cases were classified cardiac deaths (SCDs) such as coronary heart disease (77%), cardiomyopathy (7%), valvular disease (3%). All SCD cases were dead within 24 hours after the appearance of the fatal symptoms, and most of them (72%) were supposed to be instantaneous death. Many of the fatal symptoms began in bed (31%), at bath (17%), at toilet (8%) or at work (8%). 34% of them were thought to be healthy by themselves or by their family members before their deaths. Hypertension (38%), coronary heart disease (13%) and diabetes mellitus (11%) were their major past histories recorded. Cardiac lesions such as myocardial hypertrophy, fibrosis and atherosclerosis of coronary artery were frequently admitted in SCD. SCD has been vigorously studied for a long time in various fields including legal medicine, and it has also attracted a great deal of public attention recently. To clarify the causes and the mechanisms of SCD, investigations of the actual situation of SCD cases is essential. Therefore, 1230 autopsy cases of SCD in Osaka Medical Examiner's Office for recent five years were statistically investigated. PMID- 2520698 TI - [Research on the mechanism of the production and individual characteristics of alcoholic cardiomyopathy (ACM)]. PMID- 2520697 TI - [Violence by burns: a forensic medical study apropos 93 cases]. PMID- 2520699 TI - The early post mortem histomorphological changes under experimental conditions. PMID- 2520700 TI - Study of myenteric and submucosal plexuses in the esophagus of SIDS victims. Preliminary results. PMID- 2520701 TI - Forensic importance of morphofunctional changes of intestinal mucosa in shock: postmortem and experimental investigations. PMID- 2520702 TI - [A computer program for the differential diagnosis of sudden death due to influenza infection]. PMID- 2520703 TI - [The differential diagnosis of the septic shock and toxic shock syndromes]. PMID- 2520704 TI - [The expert examination in forensic medicine of traumatic atrophy of the celiac ganglion]. PMID- 2520705 TI - [Sexual abuses against those under 16 years of age. An analysis of 60 cases seen at the Institute of Forensic Medicine in Coimbra]. PMID- 2520706 TI - Injuries pattern of offenders and victims in rape cases. A discriminant analysis. PMID- 2520707 TI - [Sexual offenses: between myth and reality]. PMID- 2520708 TI - The growth of internal organs in the course of progressive development of an individual in the light of forensic medicine. PMID- 2520709 TI - [The pacemaker: an element in identification]. PMID- 2520710 TI - [Spectrocolorimetry in forensic dentistry]. PMID- 2520711 TI - [Odontograms in forensic dentistry]. PMID- 2520713 TI - Superimposing method by image analysis system. PMID- 2520712 TI - Basic study on facial restoration. PMID- 2520714 TI - An application of the analytical system of images to the calculation of age through different teeth parameters. A study of central incisives. PMID- 2520715 TI - Metrical and structural study of the dental canal to determine the individual age. PMID- 2520716 TI - [The value and limits of the interpretation of panoramic radiographs in forensic dentistry]. PMID- 2520717 TI - [Identification after almost total cremation by using dental fragments]. PMID- 2520719 TI - A fatal ingestion of sparteine and meprobamate: medicolegal and toxicological data. AB - A case of suicidal overdose from the ingestion of Palpipax (meprobamate and sparteine) is presented. The drugs were quantified in biological fluids and tissues using gas chromatography. The blood concentrations of meprobamate and sparteine were found to be 88.2 and 40.4 micrograms/ml, respectively. Results are discussed in the light of the existing literature. PMID- 2520718 TI - [The stability of drug toxins in the postmortem blood]. PMID- 2520720 TI - [The determination of trihexyphenidyl and its hydroxyl metabolite by gas chromatography]. PMID- 2520721 TI - Calculation of distance of a projectile from a place across a body till total loss of kinetic energy. PMID- 2520722 TI - Identification and determination of dextromoramide, a nonopiate narcotic. AB - A method for the identification and quantification of dextromoramide in plasma by GC/NPD is presented. The procedure employs alfentanil as the internal standard and requires no derivatization. After a single-step extraction, analysis is performed on a 3% OV-17 Chromosorb Q glass column. The lower limit of detectability was found to be 2 ng/ml in plasma. PMID- 2520723 TI - [Statistics on poisoning deaths. The Institute of Forensic Medicine of Porto (1979-1987)]. PMID- 2520724 TI - [The forensic medical aspects of paraquat poisonings]. PMID- 2520725 TI - [Mycotoxins and pseudomycotoxins]. PMID- 2520726 TI - [Detection of psychotropic drug abuse]. PMID- 2520727 TI - [The pulmonary lesions in paraquat poisoning]. PMID- 2520728 TI - Sudden death following ingestion of illicit heroin for concealing. PMID- 2520729 TI - Immunofluorescence detection of digoxin with monoclonal digoxin specific antibody. AB - The present study primarily focuses on the analysis of digoxin binding of the heart muscle cells. The primary aim of the investigation was to demonstrate the cardiac glycoside morphologically. The direct immunofluorescence staining technique with digoxin specific monoclonal antibody or Fab fragments and FITC or Texas-Red conjugated antisera are useful for morphological demonstration of digoxin binding and localization in cardiac cells. With the immunofluorescence method, linkage can be observed on the sarcolemma membrane and on the wall of capillaries and arterioles in myocardial cells treated by cardiac glycoside. The specificity of reaction is provided by the negative reaction of cells, not treated by digoxin. Intensity of reaction depends on concentration. The photometric measuring of fluorescence enables the quantitative analysis of cardiac glycoside. It shows the sensitivity of the method in that cardiac glycoside linked to the cell membrane can be detected in the upper sphere of a therapeutic dose. Application of the immunofluorescence method is manifold and relatively simple, and this quick method can be used in diagnoses and in the study of cardiac glycoside receptors of cell membrane. On the basis of our own experiments it is possible to study the kinetics of digoxin linkage. The use of this method is demonstrated for investigation of single cell suspension and cryostat sections. PMID- 2520730 TI - Some experiences in assays for abused drugs by means of mass-selective detector. PMID- 2520732 TI - The flushing syndrome after ethanol intake caused by aldehyde dehydrogenase deficiency in Orientals. PMID- 2520731 TI - [The application of an experimental enzymatic technic to alcohol oxidase for blood alcohol determinations in forensic medical expertise]. PMID- 2520733 TI - Ethanol elimination influenced by polymorphism of ethanol-metabolizing enzymes and obesity. PMID- 2520734 TI - Effect of aldehyde dehydrogenase deficiency on ethanol elimination after peroral or intravenous administrations. PMID- 2520735 TI - Effects of ethanol and beta-adrenergic antagonists on cold adaptation. PMID- 2520737 TI - Deaths from acute alcohol poisoning. PMID- 2520736 TI - [Alcohol and psychotropic drugs in road accidents in the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region]. PMID- 2520738 TI - [Lesions from blunt instruments during life. Statistics from the Institute of Forensic Medicine of Porto (1985-1987)]. PMID- 2520739 TI - [The differential immunochemical aspects of the ante- and postmortem skin wound]. PMID- 2520740 TI - Speargun injuries: a case of wilful murder. PMID- 2520741 TI - [Undress and rhabdomyolysis due to cold weather. Apropos a case]. PMID- 2520742 TI - Injuries of drivers who used seat belts killed in traffic accidents. PMID- 2520744 TI - [Infanticide]. PMID- 2520743 TI - [Conjugal murders]. PMID- 2520745 TI - Forensic management of civilian mass aircraft disaster: organising problems in Italy. PMID- 2520746 TI - Computer modeling and dummy simulation studies of occupant kinetics in road accidents. PMID- 2520747 TI - Is amyloid deposition in Alzheimer's disease preceded by an environment-induced double conformational transition? AB - Fragments of amyloid polypeptide (A4 or beta-protein) were synthesized on solid phase. Circular dichroism (CD) measurements showed that the N-terminal 1-12 fragment assumes an unordered conformation in water, but probably adopts a type I(III) beta-turn in trifluoroethanol (TFE). The central 11-25 fragment has a beta sheet conformation in aqueous solution, while the full-length N-terminal 1-28 peptide shows helical features in TFE as well as in TFE-water mixtures. Based on secondary structural predictions, molecular mechanical calculations, and the differing and size-dependent conformational propensities of the smaller fragments in aqueous solution, the amyloid peptide is likely to undergo a double conformational transition that is characterized by a pleating process of its central segment. This conformational transition may start spontaneously above a critical peptide concentration, or it may be triggered by age-related or pathological changes ("watering") of the extracellular environment. PMID- 2520748 TI - Role of the proline residues on the immunogenic properties of a P. falciparum circumsporozoite peptide linked to a carrier protein. AB - The circumsporozoite (CS) protein of P. falciparum contains an immunodominant epitope, NADP, that is repeated 37 times in the native molecule. The presence of proline in the coat proteins of the Plasmodium parasite at various developmental stages and strains is a frequent occurrence. In this study we evaluate the influence of substitution of proline residues by glycine on the immunogenic behavior of two tandemly repeated peptides linked via glutaraldehyde to a protein carrier: The (NANP)4 P. falciparum circumsporozoite peptide and its glycine substitute analog, (NANG)4. The results obtained show that the (NANP)4 induces antibodies which recognize the peptide free in solution, bound on a solid phase, and linked to a carrier protein. It has been previously reported that such antibodies recognize the antigenic sites of the peptide in the native protein on the surface of the sporozoite. Antibodies raised against (NANG)4 in the same experimental conditions as (NANP)4, cannot recognize the peptide free in solution or bound to the solid phase. However, these antibodies can react with the peptide when it is linked to a protein carrier. The coupling of a glycine-containing analog to a carrier results in a significant shift in its conformation, allowing it to be recognized by the antibodies. PMID- 2520749 TI - Hydrophobic amino acid residues in peptide antigens determine the genetic control of immune responses. AB - The ability to respond to an antigen is generally controlled by the activation of T helper cells. These cells are required for the initiation of immune responses including the activation of T effector cells in cell-mediated immunity and for the production of antibodies by B cells. Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules present antigenic fragments to helper T cells, and recent studies suggest antigen binds to MHC molecules during this process. Both the composition and the structure of the peptide antigen and its ability to interact with MHC molecules determine the genetic responsiveness of an individual. We used a panel of synthetic polypeptide antigens with the repeating sequence Glu-X-Ala to determine the role that individual amino acid residues play in the recognition of antigens by T cells. The aromatic hydrophobic residues Tyr and Phe in polypeptide antigens Poly EYA, Poly EFA, and Poly EYAEFA were found to determine the genetic control of immune responses. Mice of H-2b,d haplotypes are high responders to Poly EYA, mice of H-2p,q haplotypes are high responders to Poly EFA and mice of H 2b,d,p,q strains are high responders to Poly EYAEFA. Mice of H-2k haplotype were nonresponders to all of these antigens. The antigen Poly ESA containing the hydrophilic residues (Ser), on the other hand, was found to be nonimmunogenic. Animals which are nonresponders to Poly EYA or Poly EFA, when primed with Poly EYAEFA, produce both T cells and antibodies which crossreact with Poly EYA and Poly EFA.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2520750 TI - A novel design of peptide immunogens: synthetic peptide with a reversible handle for the attachment to protein carriers. AB - A novel design of peptide antigen suitable for the preparation of peptide-based antibody is described. The peptide is synthesized in a special benzhydrylamine (p acyloxybenzhydrylamine) resin that contains two detachable sites, both of which are stable to the mild SN2 deprotection of the side chains that allows the deprotected peptide to remain attached to the resin support. Release of the peptide is achieved by methylaminolysis in a volatile solvent that produces a deprotected peptide with a detachable p-hydroxybenzhydrylamine handle for the linkage to the protein carrier via an azo bond. The peptidyl handle is detachable under a mild acidolytic condition to generate the desirable peptide. A 17-residue peptide from the circumsporozoite proteins of the human malaria parasite, Plasmodium flaciparum, was tested in this approach to prepare antibodies, and its results were compared with the conventional approach using glutaraldehyde as the crosslinking reagent. Specific antibodies obtained from this approach were found to be reactive with the peptide and the cognate protein. Our results show that this design is useful and convenient to generate site-specific peptide-based antibodies for laboratory use. PMID- 2520751 TI - In vitro cytocidal effect of lytic peptides on several transformed mammalian cell lines. AB - Several types of transformed mammalian cells, derived from established cell lines, were found to be lysed in vitro by three novel lytic peptides (SB-37, SB 37*, and Shiva-1). This is in contrast with the behavior of normal cells, where the observed lytic activity of the peptides is greatly reduced. Based on experiments utilizing compounds which disrupt the cytoskeleton (colchicine and cytochalasin-D), it is surmised that alterations in the cytoskeleton of transformed cells increase their sensitivity to the cytolytic activity exerted by the peptides, primarily by causing a loss of osmotic integrity. Thus, a stable and regenerative cytoskeletal system, as that possessed by normal cells, would seem requisite to withstanding the lytic effects of the peptides. PMID- 2520752 TI - Synthetic peptides as tools for investigating the pathogenicity of disease: humoral hypercalcemia of malignancy. PMID- 2520753 TI - Breakage in alpha-helix: a recognition site for anti-rabies virus ribonucleoprotein antibody. AB - Peptides composed of variants of a B-cell epitope followed by a T-cell determinant of rabies virus ribonucleoprotein (RNP) have been synthesized to elicit antibody production in mice. Conformation of the peptides was characterized by secondary structural prediction and circular dichroism measurements. It was found that only synthetic peptides with disrupted helical structure in the antigenic region were active on immunoblot assay, performed against a natural anti-protein monoclonal antibody (MAb) and provoked virus neutralizing antibody production. PMID- 2520754 TI - Structure-activity relationships for myotropic activity of the gastrin/cholecystokinin-like insect sulfakinins. AB - The sulfakinins constitute a family of real and putative peptide sequences characterized from the cockroach Leucophaea maderae (leucosulfakinin subfamily) and fruitfly Drosophila melanogaster (drosulfakinin subfamily) with homology to the sulfated mammalian hormones gastrin II and cholecystokinin (CCK). The leucosulfakinin (LSK) subfamily of neuropeptides stimulate contractions of the isolated cockroach hindgut. In this paper, we have ascertained some of the primary structural requirements of the sulfakinins for myotropic (muscle contracting) activity. The myotropic "active core" of this family has been determined to be the C-terminal hexapeptide, though the C-terminal octapeptide (Glu-Asp-Tyr(SO3H)-Gly-His-Met-Arg-Phe-NH2) is required for full activity. The LSKs demonstrate considerable tolerance to Ala substitution in positions 7 and 9 within the active core without complete loss of activity. Conversely, Ala substitution in positions 8, 10 and 11 led to inactive compounds. Basicity is a critical feature of LSK position 10, while aromatic character is an important characteristic for positions 8 and 11 for myotropic activity. Only trace activity could be observed upon replacement of the Tyr(SO3H) residue in LSK-position 6 with a Ser(SO3H). One analog ([3MeHis8] LSK) proved more active as a contractile stimulant than the natural product, while another ([7-11,Tyr(SO3H)7] LSK), conversely, demonstrated inhibition of spontaneous contractions of the cockroach hindgut. PMID- 2520756 TI - Conformational origin of a difficult coupling in a human growth hormone releasing factor analog. AB - During the solid-phase synthesis of the human growth hormone releasing factor (GRF) analog [Ala15, Leu27, Asn28] -GRF(1-32)-OH, incorporation of Boc-Gln16 was determined to be incomplete. While aggregation of growing resin-bound peptide chains with concomitant beta-sheet formation and "precipitation" has been proposed to account in general for such "difficult coupling," no feature of sequence in the Gln16 region of this GRF analog provided an immediate rationale for this result. We now report 500 MHz 1H NMR spectra of a series of resin-bound GRF segments surrounding the Gln16 position (19-32 through 14-32), swelled in dimethylsulfoxide-d6 solutions [GRF(14-32) = Leu14-Ala-Gln-Leu-Ser(Bzl)-Ala Arg(Tos)-Lys(CIZ)-Leu- Leu-Gln-Asp(OcHex)-Ile-Leu-Asn-Arg(Tos)-Gln-Gln-Gly32-PAM resin]. While relatively sharp spectra are observed for GRF(19-32), components with resonances broadened by an order-of-magnitude appear in spectra of the 18-32 and 17-32 peptide-resin, and the entire spectrum of 16-32 is ill-resolved and highly broadened. Subsequent spectra sharpen again (15-32, 14-32). These combined synthesis/spectroscopic experimental results, in conjunction with predictive analyses using standard Chou-Fasman 2 degrees structure parameters, suggest that the completeness of the Gln16 coupling is hindered by formation of a specific, folded beta-sheet/beta-turn structure in GRF(16-32) (with the turn located at 18 21, "upstream" of the difficult coupling site), and accompanying aggregation of peptide chains. This analysis suggests that awareness of such potential beta sheet/beta-turn sequences can guide analog choices, and/or facilitate pre programming of synthesis steps in anticipation of problem couplings. PMID- 2520757 TI - A technique for rapid purification of low yield products: biotinylation of chemically synthesized proteins on-resin. AB - We report here straightforward methodology for the purification of chemically synthesized proteins which are produced in low yield. The methodology is generally applicable to all proteins still on-resin and fully protected except for the terminal amino group. The protein is treated in order with the following steps: Biotinylation with NHS-biotin, HF cleavage, and avidin-agarose affinity chromatography. No special skills or automated equipment are needed to take advantage of this procedure. PMID- 2520755 TI - Effects of model extension peptides containing glycine, proline and serine residues on the import of mitochondrial enzyme precursors into mitochondria. AB - We found previously that Ac-(Leu-Leu-Ala-Arg-Leu)3-NHCH3 (5(3)), a model of the extension peptide of cytochrome P-450(SCC) precursor, strongly inhibited the import of the precursor into mitochondria. Unexpectedly, however, 5(3) showed the break of respiratory control of mitochondria. In the present study, desAc- [Pro7, Ser10] 5(3) (1), [Pro7, Ser10] 5(3) (2), desAc- [Gly5, Pro7, Ser10] 5(3) (3) and [Gly5, Pro7, Ser10] 5(3) (4) were synthesized in order to investigate the influence of the Gly, Pro and Ser residues, which are present in the extension peptide, on the import and respiration. CD measurement indicated that all the peptides had an alpha-helical conformation in the presence of DPPC-DPPG (3:1) liposomes. The order of the content of alpha-helical conformation was 5(3) greater than 1, 2 greater than 3, 4, while SEP1-15 (N-terminal 1-15 fragment of the extension peptide of cytochrome P-450(SCC) precursor) showed no alpha-helical structure. The measurements of dye-leakage from liposomes, import-inhibition of P 450(SCC) and adrenodoxin precursors and respiratory inhibition of mitochondria indicated that 3 and 4, rather than 1 and 2, are similar to SEP1-15, and that the glycine residue in the extension peptide is of considerable importance for the import of the precursors. PMID- 2520758 TI - Deamidation via cyclic imide in asparaginyl peptides. AB - The deamidation reaction of asparaginyl peptides was studied as a function of the pH and sequence. The deamidation of Boc-Asn-Gly-Gly-NH2 and the hydrolysis of the corresponding aminosuccinyl (Asu) peptide, Boc-Asu-Gly-Gly-NH2, were carried out in the pH ranges 5-10, whereas the deamidation of Boc-Asn-Ala-Gly-NH2, Boc-Asn Gly-Ala-NH2 and Boc-Asn-Ser-Gly-NH2 was studied at pH 8.9 only. In each case, the conversion of the amide side-chain moiety of the Asn to carboxyl group occurs via a succinimide intermediate (Asu), and its breakdown leads to a normal and an isoaspartyl peptide. The kinetic constants of the Asu formation and the hydrolytic step increase markedly at basic pH. The influence of the side chain of the residue next to Asn is also discussed. PMID- 2520759 TI - Synthetic peptides of neurotoxins and rabies virus glycoprotein behave as antagonists in a functional assay for the acetylcholine receptor. AB - Peptides of portions of loop 2 (the "toxic" loop) of snake venom curare-mimetic neurotoxins (alpha-bungarotoxin and king cobra toxin b) and of a structurally similar region of the rabies virus glycoprotein were synthesized. The effect of the peptides on carbachol-induced 22Na+ flux into BC3H-1 cells, which contain nicotinic acetylcholine receptors on their surfaces, was measured. Both the neurotoxin and glycoprotein peptides inhibited ion transport with IC50 values of 10(-4) M to 7 x 10(-7) M. The most effective peptides correspond to neurotoxin loop 2 and inhibited 22Na+ flux in the micromolar range comparable to the competitive antagonist d-tubocurarine. These findings show that neurotoxin loop 2 and the corresponding rabies virus glycoprotein segment interact with the agonist binding site of teh acetylcholine receptor and that short synthetic peptides representing portions of larger molecules by themselves can exert a biological effect on a large macromolecular complex like the acetylcholine receptor. PMID- 2520761 TI - Trypsin cleaves lysylproline in a hydroxyproline-rich glycoprotein from Zea mays. AB - Although trypsin is highly specific for lysyl and arginyl bonds, some peptide bonds, such as lysylproline, are generally trypsin-resistant, with rare exceptions as reported here. Trypsin cleaved a specific Lys-Pro bond in the chymotryptic peptide: Thr-Hyp-Ser-Hyp-Lys-Pro-Hyp-Thr-Pro-Lys-Pro-Thr-Hyp-Hyp-Thr Tyr isolated from a Zea mays hydroxyproline-rich glycoprotein (HRGP). The daughter peptides, Thr-Hyp-Ser-Hyp-Lys-Pro-Hyp-Thr-Pro-Lys and Pro-Thr-Hyp-Hyp Thr-Tyr, show cleavage of only one of the two Lys-Pro bonds in the parent peptide. From these and other data we suggest that there are two prerequisites for Lys-Pro cleavage: First, an extended helix characteristically present in proline or hydroxyproline-rich proteins; second, flexibility in two residues flanking the Lys-Pro bond. PMID- 2520760 TI - Determination of antigenic binding sites in antibodies directed against a mycobacterial peptide by deletion and substitution of single amino acids. AB - A component of Mycobacterium bovis (BCG) was previously isolated using a monoclonal antibody to BCG and affinity chromatography. It was designated BCG-a. The sequence of N-terminal residues of BCG-a was used to synthesize a 13 amino acid peptide designated BCG-a-P which elicited immunologic responses. The present study was undertaken to identify which amino acid residues were critical for the immunologic characteristics of BCG-a-P. By virtue of analogues synthesized with either amino acid deletions or substitutions along the BCG-a-P sequence, it was possible to identify the regions of the peptide which were responsible for the recognition and binding by antibodies directed to BCG-a-P. In both direct and competition ELISA systems, the deletion of single amino acids caused a change in the binding of BCG-a-P by an antiserum directed to BCG-a-P. Similar results were evident when the amino acid phenylalanine was substituted for individual residues along the sequence of BCG-a-P. The residues responsible for antibody binding had the highest localized hydrophilic index of any hexapeptide stretch of the BCG-a-P sequence. These findings indicate that the activity expressed by BCG-a-P was due to a defined region of the peptide. The techniques used here may have applications in identifying the regions within other mycobacterial antigens which are involved in antibody binding. PMID- 2520762 TI - High efficiency immunoaffinity purification of anti-peptide antibodies on thiopropyl sepharose immunoadsorbants. AB - Antibodies to peptides are routinely made by immunizing animals with peptide linked to a carrier protein such as keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH) or bovine serum albumin (BSA) via a disulfide bond. The majority of such a polyclonal antibody response is directed against the carrier protein. The presence of such background antibodies often complicates efforts to characterize the desired anti peptide antibody; hence it is desirable to isolate the specific fraction of immunoglobulin reactive against the peptide of interest. We describe here a simple and efficient technique to purify anti-peptide antibodies from such sera using commercially available reagents. Peptide antigen with a carboxy or amino terminal cysteine is coupled to thiopropyl Sepharose via a disulfide linkage. The bond between peptide and propyl group on Sepharose was stable at neutral and acidic pHs, and affinity bound anti-peptide antibodies were eluted from the column at low pH (pH 3.0). This procedure permits purification of anti-peptide antibodies, separating them from usually high-titered antibodies to the carrier protein. We describe the application of this method for purification of antibodies to two peptides derived from the glycoprotein sequence of lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus, as well as sequences derived from the human acetylcholine receptor. PMID- 2520763 TI - Plasma desorption mass spectrometry of natural and recombinant peptides and proteins. AB - Plasma desorption mass spectrometry (PDMS), which utilizes the fission fragments from the spontaneous decay of californium-252 to ionize large biomolecules, has emerged as a powerful analytical tool in the field of protein chemistry. Because of its high mass range and sensitivity, PDMS is an excellent method for direct molecular weight determination of peptides and small proteins, with much better accuracy than that of the most commonly used classical methods of gel permeation chromatography or SDS-gel electrophoresis. Furthermore, PDMS analysis of the peptide mixture resulting from a specific enzymatic or chemical cleavage of the protein, allows rapid and facile checking of DNA-derived protein sequences and protein structures produced by recombinant DNA technology. The relatively nondestructive nature of the PD mass spectrometric analysis allows further confirmation of the sequence assignments of individual peptide fragments through additional chemical or enzymatic reactions on the PDMS matrix-bound peptides. This PD mapping approach, combined with classical gas phase sequencing, can be used to identify and locate post-translational modifications in proteins, such as glycosylation, phosphorylation, disulfide linkages, and also detect the presence of peptide and protein variants in synthetic, native and recombinant peptides and proteins. PMID- 2520764 TI - Peptide mapping using thermospray LC/MS detection: rapid identification of hemoglobin variants. AB - A rapid and easily interpreted method for peptide mapping is demonstrated with hemoglobin A and three variants. Digests of the globin chains are generated in columns containing immobilized trypsin. The resulting protein fragments are resolved by reverse phase HPLC and then analyzed by thermospray mass spectrometry. The entire process is carried out on-line. The result is a chromatographic trace which is two dimensional; in addition to the standard elution pattern, the individual mass spectra collected for each peak contain information about their identity and their purity. In two of the variants used, hemoglobin C and hemoglobin Baylor, the exact nature of the amino acid substitution could be determined unambiguously in a single analysis, from the masses of the new tryptic peptides observed. In the third case, hemoglobin S, the mass of the peptide containing the amino acid replacement is consistent with two separate sites of substitution. This ambiguity was resolved in a second analysis, using immobilized carboxypeptidase Y, prior to mass spectral analysis. The resulting partial digest permits reconstruction of the critical sequence region and correct assignment of the allelic site. PMID- 2520765 TI - Conformationally restricted formyl methionyl tripeptide chemoattractants: a three dimensional structure-activity study of analogs incorporating a C alpha,alpha dialkylated glycine at position 2. AB - The conformationally restricted CHO-L-Met-Xxx-L-Phe-OY (where Xxx = Aib, Ac3c, Ac5c, Ac6c, and Ac7c; Y = H, Me) tripeptides, analogs of the chemoattractant CHO L-Met-L-Leu-L-Phe-OH, have been synthesized in solution by classical methods and fully characterized. Compounds were compared to determine the combined effect of backbone conformational preferences and side-chain bulkiness on the relation of three-dimensional structure to biological activity. Each peptide was tested for its ability to induce granule enzyme secretion from rabbit peritoneal polymorphonuclear leukocytes. In parallel, a conformational analysis on the CHO blocked peptide and their tertbutyloxycarbonylated synthetic precursors was performed in the crystal state and in solution using X-ray diffraction, infrared absorption, and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance. The biological and conformational data are discussed in relation to the proposed model of the chemotactic peptide receptor of rabbit neutrophils. PMID- 2520766 TI - High titer response against a malarial antigen depends on the flanking sequence of the immunizing peptide conjugate. AB - The immunogenicity of peptides conjugates containing the epitope STNS, recognized by inhibitory monoclonal antibodies directed against the Plasmodium falciparum merozoite surface antigen MSA2, was investigated. The sequence of the flanking regions was critical in determining the response against the central epitope. In the best immunogen tested, this flanking sequence was not related to the sequence of the surface antigen itself but nevertheless gave rise to a strong anti-MSA2 protein response as judged by Western blotting and immunofluorescence. This finding illustrates the importance of defining such flanking sequences in optimizing peptide based vaccines. PMID- 2520767 TI - A proposed structural model of endothelin. AB - We have assessed the hydropathic nature, secondary structure, and flexibility of endothelin and report a testable model for the structure of this 21-amino acid vasoconstrictor peptide. The proposed model consists of a rigid (disulfide bonded), hydrophilic amino-terminal half of the molecule with two turns, and an extended hydrophobic sheet structure comprising the C-terminal half of the molecule. The extended structure may be stabilized by intermolecular hydrogen bonding, leading to dimers or higher order aggregates, and is hydrophobic enough to partition into an organic solvent such as ether, as long as the molecule can keep its hydrophilic amino terminus in an aqueous phase. To test this model, partitioning measurements were made on bioactive synthetic endothelin. It was found to partition at the interface of an ether/water system in a concentration- and surface area-dependent manner. A further indication as to the amphipathic nature of the molecule is that microcrystals of synthetic endothelin tend to grow at an organic-aqueous interface in a two-phase system. PMID- 2520768 TI - Synthesis of the pro-peptide of subtilisin BPN'. AB - Subtilisin, a bacterial serine protease, is secreted as pre-pro-subtilisin. Previously, we demonstrated that the pro-peptide moiety of intact pro-subtilisin can guide the folding of inactive protein to active enzyme both in an intramolecular (6) and intermolecular manner (18). Herein is reported the total chemical synthesis of the pro-sequence (77 amino acids) of pre-pro-subtilisin BPN' carried out by solid phase methods. The structure was confirmed by both sequencing and amino acid analysis of the fragment peptides resulting from a V-8 protease digest. Preliminary studies indicate that the synthetic pro-peptide itself can renature denatured subtilisin BPN'. This study demonstrates a novel method for examining protein folding with the aid of exogenously added synthetic peptides. PMID- 2520769 TI - Simulation of continuous solid phase synthesis: synthesis of methionine enkephalin and its analogs. AB - The method of continuous solid phase synthesis, i.e., synthesis performed on a continual carrier, transferable from one synthetic compartment to another by means of a mechanical device, allows one to perform multiple synthetic steps simultaneously on different regions of the carrier. This procedure was tested on the synthesis of methionine enkephalin and its analogs. Products, obtained in reasonable yields, were fully characterized. Possible arrangements and the use of continuous solid phase synthesizers are discussed. PMID- 2520771 TI - Psi [CH2NH] backbone-modified peptides: first unequivocal observation of a C7 structure in a linear peptide. AB - We have elucidated the X-ray diffraction structures of the psi[CH2NH] backbone modified analogs of Z-Pro-Leu-Gly-NH2 and t-Boc-Pro-Leu-Gly-NH2 (N alpha protected derivatives of the tripeptide amide representing the C-terminal tail of oxytocin) with the "reduced peptide bond" located at the Pro-Leu sequence. The comparative results of these pseudopeptides show that conformational properties are similar (i.e., C7 structure at the Pro), whereas the unmodified peptides diverge substantially (i.e., t-Boc-Pro-Leu-Gly-NH2 and H-Pro-Leu-Gly-NH2 each show type-II beta-bend at the Leu-Gly; and Z-Pro-Leu-Gly-NH2 shows an open folded structure). The results for t-Boc-Pro psi[CH2NH]Leu-Gly-NH2 represent the first unequivocal proof for the existence of a C7 structure in a linear peptide. PMID- 2520770 TI - T-cell antigenic peptides from sperm whale myoglobin fold as amphipathic helices: a possible determinant for immunodominance? AB - Little is known about the requirements for immunodominance in a T-cell immune response. It has been speculated that after a foreign protein has undergone proteolytic processing, resulting peptides that can take on structures favorable for binding to histocompatibility proteins and for recognition by the T-cell receptor are immunodominant. DeLisi and Berzofsky (25) have proposed that the ability of a peptide fragment to fold as an amphipathic alpha-helix may increase the likelihood of its immunodominance. In an effort to understand how structure and immunodominance might be correlated, we have studied the biophysical properties of a series of peptides from sperm whale myoglobin (SWMb) which have already been characterized with respect to activation of T-cell clones from mice immunized against the whole protein. Our results suggest that peptides corresponding to immunodominant T-cell antigenic sites from SWMb tend to fold as amphipathic alpha-helices in structure-promoting and interfacial environments. Peptides with the sequences 132-146 and 102-118 were chosen for the study because they were found to be immunodominant for myoglobin-specific T cells (8) and were predicted to form amphipathic alpha-helices based on their residue distribution. Likewise, peptides with the sequences 93-102 and 115-130, which were predicted not to favor this conformation, were used as controls.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2520773 TI - The RaMPS system: simplified peptide synthesis for life science researchers. PMID- 2520772 TI - Muramyl peptide/serotonin receptors in brain-derived preparations. AB - Certain peptidoglycans (muramyl peptides), components of bacterial cell walls, and the monoaminergic neurotransmitter serotonin, profoundly modulate some activities of mammalian immune and nervous systems. We previously described the interaction of these compounds at receptors on macrophages. This report concerns specific binding sites for muramyl peptide in preparations of brain tissue, interaction between muramyl peptide and serotonin in binding to glial-derived cells, and the ability of both muramyl peptide and serotonin to induce release of interleukin-1-like activity from these cells. Specific binding sites for muramyl peptides in the low-nanomolar concentration range were found on subcellular fractions of fresh rat brain preparations, e.g., from diencephalon, and C6 glioma cells. This binding was saturable, reversible, stereospecific, and varied with brain region. In addition, muramyl peptide blocked the specific component of serotonin binding to glioma cells, while leaving the nonspecific binding component unaffected. Interleukin-1 has previously been shown to be released by macrophages in response to muramyl peptide. We found that low-nanomolar concentrations of either muramyl peptide or serotonin rapidly induced release of interleukin-1-like activity from a glial cell line. Thus, the pyrogenic and sleep promoting effects of muramyl peptide may be mediated at least in part by release of interleukin-1 in the brain that follows binding to muramyl peptide/serotonin receptors on glial cells. PMID- 2520774 TI - Coupling strategies in solid-phase synthesis of glycopeptides. AB - N-beta-(2-acetamido-2-deoxy-beta-D-glucopyranosyl)-asparaginyl peptides [Asn(GlcNAc)] corresponding to T-helper cell determinants were synthesized on solid-phase. Various amino-terminal- and carbohydrate-protecting groups were used on the glycosylated asparagine residue which was coupled to the peptide chain. We found that coupling rates decreased with increased size of the protected carbohydrate part of the acylating agent. Double couplings with an O-unprotected saccharide, as in Fmoc-Asn(GlcNAc)-OH resulted in acceptable coupling rates even with a synthetically difficult sequence corresponding to the T-cell epitopic peptide from the C-terminus of pigeon cytochrome c. The observed coupling rates on this peptide as well as on a T-cell epitopic pentapeptide, derived from the rabies virus N-protein, were comparable to those of conventional solid-phase peptide syntheses. The Fmoc-Asn(GlcNAc)-OH used can be prepared easily from commercially available components. The described glycopeptides will be used to probe effects of N-glycosylation on the immune recognition of viral glycoproteins. PMID- 2520775 TI - Production of oligoclonal antibodies directed to the N-terminal of smooth muscle alpha actin using peptidyl-polyacrylic resins as direct immunogens. AB - Polyacrylamide-based solid-phase supports were used in the production of a synthetic peptide analogous to amino acid sequence 1-9 from bovine aortic actin. Different peptidyl-resins were prepared and directly used to induce an antibody response in rabbits. Antisera that recognized the resin-bound peptide were compared. Some of them reacted with native aortic actin; this response was highly specific for the smooth muscle alpha actin isotype. We also immunized rabbits with the 1-9 peptide linked to bovine serum albumin. In this case, antisera were less reactive with native aortic actin, and cross-reacted with the two closely related smooth muscle alpha and macrophage actin isotypes. This method provides a rapid and simple procedure for generating peptide immunogens and antibodies to them, by the combination of peptidyl-resin immunizations and resin-bound peptide immunoassays. PMID- 2520776 TI - Sequence determination of low molecular weight salivary histidine-rich polypeptides from electroblots. AB - Saliva contains six major cationic antifungal histidine-rich polypeptides (HRP) which are degraded by salivary proteases to smaller minor peptides. The primary structures of the minor peptides from one of these major HRPs, HRP-5, were elucidated in this study. Digestion of the HRP-5 substrate by human parotid saliva was followed by cationic polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, electroblotting onto Whatman GF/C paper and gas-phase sequencing of Coomassie blue stained blots. A total of eight minor peptides were structurally analyzed. The smallest molecule characterized contained seven amino acid residues, suggesting that the technique was applicable for sequence determination of cationic peptides in the low molecular weight range. PMID- 2520777 TI - Automated synthesis of a C-terminal photoprobe using combined Fmoc and t-Boc synthesis strategies on a single automated peptide synthesizer. AB - Peptide photoprobes can be utilized to identify peptide binding sites of various proteins. The photoprobe p-benzoylbenzoic acid (BBA) possesses several unique chemical characteristics which make it ideal for the construction of a peptide photoprobe: It can be directly coupled to the peptide during synthesis, it is stable to HF treatment, it is inert until photolysis, and the photo-activated probe is non-specific in its binding to proteins. The construction of an N terminal p-benzoylbenzoyl-peptide photoprobe utilizing an automated peptide synthesizer is straight-forward because p-benzoylbenzoic acid can be incorporated during routine peptide synthesis as if it were the N-terminal amino acid. In contrast, the construction of a C-terminal photoprobe peptide is more complex and requires the presence of a C-terminal lysine to incorporate the photoprobe into the peptide. We have devised a suitable pathway to attach BBA to the C-terminal of a synthetic peptide in an automated fashion. The method described in this report utilizes Fmoc chemistry for the automated loading of Boc-Lysine-epsilon Fmoc to hydroxymethyl resin. After loading, the epsilon-amine of the resin-bound lysine is deprotected with piperidine and the addition of BBA to the epsilon amine then occurs via a peptide bond. The peptide synthesizer is then converted over to t-Boc chemistry, and the remainder of the synthesis is carried out using standard protocols. PMID- 2520778 TI - Analysis of brain neuropeptides by capillary electrophoresis: determination of luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone from ovine hypothalamus. AB - The use of capillary electrophoresis to analyze in vivo release of luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone from the ewe median eminence and tissue content of luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone from discrete brain areas (within and immediately adjacent to the median eminence) is described. Results were compared with those obtained with a specific luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone radioimmunoassay. In vivo release samples were obtained by a push-pull cannula procedure. The exact position of the median eminence in each animal was determined from lateral roentgenographs after infusion of a radiopaque dye into the third ventricle. Each ewe median eminence was perfused with an artificial cerebrospinal fluid solution and sampled at 20-min intervals. Brain tissues for luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone content were obtained after each animal was killed. Samples were either analyzed by capillary electrophoresis and UV detection at 210 nm or assayed with a specific luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone radioimmunoassay. Tissue homogenate content and release samples had several peaks resolved by capillary electrophoresis and UV detection. Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone was identified as one of these peaks. Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone was also shown to be present in these samples when evaluated by radioimmunoassay. A good correlation between capillary electrophoresis and radioimmunoassay was observed for luteinizing hormone releasing hormone content values obtained from discrete hypothalamic areas.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2520779 TI - Analysis of disulfide-linked homo- and hetero-peptide dimers with a strong cation exchange sulfoethyl aspartamide column. AB - A strong cation-exchange sulfoethyl aspartamide column was used to analyze and purify disulfide-linked homo-/hetero-peptide dimers. Monomeric peptides elute from this column in a monotonic fashion according to their net nominal positive charge at pH 3.0. Disulfide-linked peptide dimers are expected to possess an increased net positive charge at pH 3.0 and therefore should elute later and be well resolved from their monomeric constituents. Five distinct synthetic peptides (7 to 14 residues in length) ranging in net nominal charge at pH 3.0 from +1 to +4, with cysteine located at the N-terminus, C-terminus, or at an internal position, were used to produce disulfide-linked homo/hetero-peptide dimers as follows: The peptide was first reacted with 5,5'-dithiobis (2-nitrobenzoic acid) to form the mixed-disulfide, peptide:2-nitro-5-thiobenzoic acid adduct which is easily monitored at 325 nm. Then, the second cysteine-containing peptide was added and the desired disulfide-linked homo-/hetero-peptide dimer was produced via a thiol-disulfide interchange reaction. The entire reaction mixture was subsequently chromatographed on the sulfoethyl aspartamide column to isolate the disulfide-bonded species and also, to identify other reaction products. In addition, the same reaction mixture was analyzed by standard C18 reverse-phase chromatography to compare the capabilities of these two distinct chromatographic modes to identify disulfide-linked homo-/hetero- peptide dimers. It is shown that each chromatographic system successfully resolved all five homo-peptide dimers from their respective monomer counterparts, with separation being slightly better on the sulfoethyl aspartamide column.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2520780 TI - Doppler measurements on branches of the uterine artery in normal, hypertensive and growth-retarded pregnancies. AB - The quality and reliability of pulsed Doppler recordings from branches of the uterine artery were tested by studying 37 normotensive pregnancies and 14 complicated by pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) lasting for several minutes. The coefficients of variation of mean velocity and A/B ratio (= peak systolic/end diastolic velocity) were 0.06 and 0.08, respectively. Thus, calculations of A/B ratio from a limited number of heart beats should be reliable. Calculations were then made from uterine artery Doppler recordings in 65 normotensive pregnancies and 32 with PIH. A significantly higher A/B ratio was found in the PIH group. Among the normotensives, no statistically significant difference in A/B ratio was found between those who gave birth to appropriate-for-gestational-age (AGA) and small-for-gestational-age (SGA: less than 10th centile) infants. In the PIH group a significant difference was found; A/B: 1.95 versus 1.78 in the SGA and AGA groups, respectively. The latter was still significantly higher than the normotensive (= 1.60). Two PIH subgroups with equivalent blood pressures and proteinuria, but who gave birth to AGA or SGA infants, were compared. A/B ratio from the latter was significantly higher. These findings show that PIH is associated with increased uteroplacental vascular resistance; increased vascular pathology is associated with fetal growth retardation. PMID- 2520781 TI - The effect of dihydralazine on blood velocity in branches of the uterine artery in pregnancy induced hypertension. AB - Dihydralazine is frequently used in severe pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH). Little is known about its effect on the human uteroplacental circulation. In this study, Doppler ultrasound recordings were made from branches of the uterine artery in 5 women with PIH and blood pressure (BP) greater than or equal to 150/100 who received either 7.5 or 10 mg dihydralazine, as repeated intravenous doses of 2.5 mg, before obtaining near-normal/normal BP values. The measurements started 5-10 min prior to the injections and continued as undisrupted as possible during injections and the subsequent 30 min. When the reduction in BP was obtained, the median blood velocity was reduced by 23% (range 10-29%). A/B ratio was calculated at the same time as an indicator of peripheral vascular resistance. The ratio increased, compared with pre-experiment values, in 3 subjects (5, 26 and 31%) but decreased in 2 (4 and 6%). Maternal tachycardia was noted in all but one woman. Continuous fetal heart rate (FHR) recording showed no signs of fetal distress. The uteroplacental circulation does not seem to benefit from the vasodilatory effects of dihydralazine, the response to the decreased perfusion pressure being a reduction in blood velocity and unchanged peripheral resistance. PMID- 2520782 TI - Contractile activity in the human uterine cervix and corpus during cervical dilatation by laminaria tent in first trimester legal abortions. AB - Millar microtransducers were used in 7 patients to record contractile variations in the cervix and corpus during dilatation of the cervical canal by Laminaria tent preceding first-trimester vacuum aspiration. The spontaneous contractile activity was registered in a control group of 5 patients without laminaria pretreatment. Two Millar catheters were used. The sensor tip of one Millar catheter was placed extra-amniotically in the uterine cavity, and the other one in the mid-cervical canal. Both sensor tips faced the wall of the cervix and corpus. The study showed that laminaria tents not only have a gentle dilatating effect on the cervix, but also induce painless uterine contractions, of amplitudes reaching 20 mmHg, and increased contractile activity in the cervix for the duration of dilatation. PMID- 2520783 TI - The influence of cervical dilatation by laminaria tent and with Hegar dilators on the intrauterine microflora and the rate of postabortal pelvic inflammatory disease. AB - In a prospective study, 519 women were randomly selected for cervical dilatation by laminaria tents or Hegar dilators before scheduled vacuum aspiration. In other 68 women randomly divided into a laminaria group and a control (Hegar) group, placenta, decidua and blood were separately aspirated from the uterine cavity before the vacuum aspiration and cultured for micro-organisms. The rate of postabortal inflammatory disease (PID) was significantly lower after pretreatment with laminaria tent irrespective of patient's age and parity. However, a higher risk of postabortal PID was found in gestational age of 10-12 weeks than of 5-9 weeks. Previous PID and abortion did not increase the risk of postabortal PID. Vaginal/cervical micro-organisms were, irrespective of method for cervical dilatation, identified in two thirds of the patients. PMID- 2520784 TI - Primary invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the vagina. AB - Neoplastic lesions of the vagina account for 1% of all gynecologic malignancies. The overall 5-year survival rate for this disease is poor. This study comprised 58 patients with diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma of the vagina treated between 1960 and 1984. Median age at diagnosis was 70 years. The lesions were staged according to FIGO. The numbers of patients in various stages were: I/13, II/24, III/12 and IV/9 and according to histologic differentiation: low grade/11, medium grade/17 and high grade/25; not recorded, 5. Twenty patients were treated with primary surgery and irradiation, 30 were treated with intracavitary and/or external irradiation only. The 5-year corrected survival rates were: St I/50%, St II/30%, St III/17% and St IV/10%; grade I/57%, grade 2/32% and grade 3/17%, younger than 70 years of age/43% and older than or 70 years of age/21%. The incidence of rectovaginal or vesicovaginal fistulas amounted to 17%. The treatment results of primary carcinoma of the vagina are poor. Prognostic factors for survival should be considered at treatment planning. PMID- 2520785 TI - Quality assurance in a large American perinatal center. AB - The obstetric service of Hutzel Hospital in Detroit, Michigan is responsible for approximately 7,300 deliveries annually. To monitor the quality and appropriateness of patient care, recognize and pursue opportunities for improving care, and resolve identified problems in the obstetric service as well as other clinical areas, the hospital developed a quality assurance (QA) program. The application of clinical indicators represents the principal method by which relevant QA information is obtained. These indicators are designed to identify problems in patient care. The obstetric/gynecologic QA committee analyzes the results of this indicator-based review process as well as other information (appropriateness of surgery, drug usage, transfusions, utilization of hospital resources, etc.) and reports its findings to the full staff of the Department on a monthly basis. If necessary, actions are taken to correct problems. They include lectures, individual counselling, development of guidelines, addition of personnel and/or equipment, and indicated disciplinary actions. These remedial measures have led to improvements in clinical care such as, for example, a more appropriate usage of antibiotics and oxytocin, and stricter adherence to guidelines. More important, however, are the intangible changes in practice patterns that have occurred in that physicians and other members of the health care team tend to render care with an added degree of diligence and circumspection because of their awareness that an effective monitoring process exists. PMID- 2520786 TI - The relation between life stress and hypertensive complications during pregnancy. AB - The relationship between life stress and hypertensive complications during pregnancy was studied in 345 women. A questionnaire was answered in the first trimester. The questions concerned education, employment, social network, traumatic experiences, housing conditions and stress of work. In this way a total life stress score for each woman was obtained. Hypertensive disorders, including chronic hypertension, were found in 63 women (18.3%). No significant difference was evident between women with low and high life stress scores with regard to hypertensive disorders during pregnancy. Nor did pressure changes during pregnancy differ between these groups. PMID- 2520787 TI - Establishment and characterization of a subline predisposed to pulmonary metastasis from a human gestational choriocarcinoma cell line in nude mice. AB - A subline predisposed to pulmonary metastasis was successfully derived by repeating in vivo selection of GCH-1, a human gestational choriocarcinoma cell line, in nude mice. While the parent line GCH-1, transplanted subcutaneously to nude mice, induced pulmonary metastasis in a few of the host animals, the newly established subline GCH-1(m) successfully metastasized to the lungs in 100% of them. Compared with GCH-1, GCH-1(m) exhibited a higher degree of cell atypia, a lower capacity for cell growth and markedly higher productivity for human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Another characteristic of this subline was its enhanced growth after the addition of a pulmonary extract obtained from nude mice. The relationship of these findings to the mechanisms of metastasis of this cancer was discussed. PMID- 2520788 TI - Breech extraction versus cesarean section for the remaining second twin. AB - All second twins delivered by cesarean section (CS) after vaginal birth of the first twin (n = 38) and all breech-extracted second twins (n = 282) in Sweden during 1973-81 were identified. Data from the medical records of all CS second twins were extracted and compared with breech-extracted second twins from the same departments born within 2 years of the CS twin (n = 25). Second twins delivered after maternal general anesthesia had lower 5-min Apgar scores, irrespective of mode of delivery. Maternal morbidity was substantial in the CS group. The results encourage the use of breech extraction under local anesthesia rather than CS when there is a need for a quick delivery of the second twin and when both alternatives are available. PMID- 2520789 TI - Uterine size, parity and umbilical cord length. AB - It seems to be a widely held notion that the uterine cavity is larger during a woman's later pregnancies than during her first pregnancy. The direct evidence for this is, however, scarce. The umbilical cord length at term is one measure of the fetal intrauterine mobility, and therefore indirectly of the space in which the fetus moves. If the uterine cavity is larger during later pregnancies, the cord length of the babies in these pregnancies should be longer. We have compared the cord lengths of 1839 babies, divided into three groups: babies born of primiparous, secundiparous and tertiparous women. The difference in mean cord length is statistically significant between the first and the third group. This supports the theory of a larger intra-uterine space in later pregnancies. We also examined 159 mothers, measuring the umbilical cord length of their first and second babies. A significant positive correlation was found, in that the first baby tended to have the shorter cord. A control group with matching, but unrelated babies showed no such correlation. The results seem to us to support the stated theory further. PMID- 2520790 TI - Ultrasonography versus urography as preoperative investigation prior to hysterectomy. AB - Ultrasonography (US) has been compared with urography (IVU) as a preoperative investigation prior to hysterectomy in 62 patients. In 38 patients the urinary tract was deemed normal by both US and IVU. US and IVU coincided in varying degrees of hydronephrosis in 8 patients and disagreed in one. Of 5 double ureters, US missed 2. IVU showed expansile lesions in 5 kidneys where US showed benign cysts. No severe contrast media reactions were observed. We recommend that preoperative urography should be replaced by preoperative ultrasonography when a screening examination of the upper urinary tract morphology is deemed necessary prior to hysterectomy. PMID- 2520791 TI - Comparison between abnormal cytology, colposcopy and histopathology during pregnancy. AB - During a 3 year period, 35 pregnant woman with grade III or IV cytological changes found at pregnancy control were followed during pregnancy and up to 4 years after delivery. These 35 patients constitute 0.35% of all the pregnant women admitted for antepartum consultation. Complete regression of dysplasia was seen in one third of the patients. The patients were followed with colposcopy and sometimes punch biopsy and the decision regarding final treatment was postponed until 8 weeks after delivery. No invasive lesion was found, and no recurrences or invasive lesions were found at follow up. It is concluded that cytology and colposcopy with punch biopsy on suspicion of early invasion is an adequate control procedure during the pregnancy at intervals of 2-3 months. PMID- 2520792 TI - Urinary tract infections and asymptomatic bacteriuria after vaginal plastic surgery. A comparison of suprapubic and transurethral catheters. AB - In a prospective randomized study comprising 90 women undergoing vaginal plastic surgery, suprapubic and transurethral catheter drainage of the bladder were compared regarding urinary tract infection and asymptomatic bacteriuria. No statistically significant differences were found. The mean duration of catheterization was 4.9 days for suprapubic vs 3.3 days for transurethral catheter patients. Postoperative urinary tract infection was diagnosed in 23.7% of patients with suprapubic and in 27.5% of patients with transurethral catheters. Asymptomatic bacteriuria at catheter removal was found in 21.0% of suprapubic and in 12.5% of transurethral catheter patients. More mechanical complications were seen with SPCs than with TUCs. It is concluded that the two methods involve similar risks of infectious complications but that SPCs have a higher rate of mechanical complications. PMID- 2520793 TI - Comparison of menstrual history and basal body temperature with early fetal growth by ultrasound in diabetic pregnancy. AB - The time of ovulation and conception of 24 insulin-dependent (Type I) diabetic women was estimated by monitoring the basal body temperature (BBT). The mean (+/- SD) duration of the menstrual cycle was 28 (+/- 2) days. Conception occurred, on the average, on the 18th day of the cycle. The fetal crown-rump length was measured by ultrasound scan every 2 weeks between 6 and 14 weeks of pregnancy. When menstrual history was used for dating, there was an apparent early fetal growth delay by a mean of 4 days. When the dates were corrected by BBT, the fetal growth was identical with the standard mean crown-rump length diagram by Robinson & Fleming. The findings of our study suggest that early fetal growth delay reported by Pedersen & Molsted-Pedersen does not exist in diabetic pregnancy. The small fetuses observed could be explained by an error in the gestational age. PMID- 2520794 TI - Prenatal ultrasound diagnosis of isolated arthrogryposis of feet. AB - Prenatal diagnosis of isolated arthrogryposis of the feet at the ankle joint was made by ultrasound and confirmed at birth. The criteria for ruling out joint contracture are absence of fixed limb deformity, and free fetal motion. PMID- 2520795 TI - Prenatal diagnosis of left ventricular false tendon. AB - A case of prenatal diagnosis of left ventricular false tendon is reported. The in utero echographic features of false tendon are described, together with their differential diagnosis. The management of neonates with false tendons is described. PMID- 2520797 TI - Dedifferentiated chondrosarcoma metastasizing to the pancreas in pregnancy. AB - Acute abdomen in pregnancy can present difficulties in both diagnosis and treatment. In this patient the presentation of an acute abdomen was due to some intraperitoneal hemorrhage complicating a pancreatic metastasis from a primary dedifferentiated chondrosarcoma arising from the right iliac bone. Neither the primary nor the secondary growths had been suspected previously. PMID- 2520796 TI - Pyosalpinx subsequent to tubal ligation. AB - A case of salpingitis with pyosalpinx subsequent to tubal ligation is described. The procedure was performed at the time of cesarean section 7 years earlier. The pyosalpinx included the distal portion of the ligated tube, with no evidence of infection in the proximal segment. Although pelvic peritonitis, salpingitis and tubo-ovarian abscess are rare following tubal ligation, they should be suspected in any patient presenting with lower abdominal pain. PMID- 2520798 TI - Scleroderma and pregnancy. PMID- 2520799 TI - Ovarian metastasis from squamocellular cervical cancer, stages IB and IIA. AB - Ovarian metastasis from early stage squamous cervical cancer is rare. In a series of 393 surgically treated patients with squamous cervical cancer, stages IB and IIA, 2 had unsuspected ovarian metastasis. These cases are reported. In younger patients, ovarian extirpation instead of conservation of the ovaries must only be considered in histologically unfavorable tumors extending high up in the endocervix, especially on suspicion of lymph node metastasis. PMID- 2520800 TI - Treatment with hachimijiogan, a non-ergot Chinese herbal medicine, in two hyperprolactinemic infertile women. AB - Two hyperprolactinemic infertile women, one with and one without a pituitary adenoma, who were resistant to bromocriptine treatment, were treated orally with Hachimijiogan, a Chinese herbal medicine. This treatment reduced the serum prolactin level, resulting in a normal ovulatory cycle and pregnancy, without side effects. PMID- 2520801 TI - Studies on blood viscosity during the menstrual cycle and in the postmenopausal period in healthy women. AB - Blood viscosity was measured in 14 healthy, menstruating women, aged 17-51 years and in 10 healthy, postmenopausal women, aged 55-64 years. The fertile women were studied once a week during a normal menstrual cycle and the postmenopausal women twice with an interval of 2 weeks. Blood viscosity was measured at natural hematocrit as well as at hematocrit 45%. In the postmenopausal women no changes in blood viscosity were found. In the fertile women, blood viscosity at hematocrit 45% was lowest at the start of the menstrual bleeding and increased to a peak at day 7 (p less than 0.01), with a similar pattern when measured at natural hematocrit. Plasma viscosity also had its lowest value at the onset of menstrual bleeding, increasing to a maximum at day 21. Changes in plasma triglycerides, but not in fibrinogen or cholesterol, seemed to contribute to this increase. Plasma factors only partly explained the variations in blood viscosity, and changes in red cell properties were also found to be of importance. The clinical significance of these rheological changes remains to be established, but at least theoretically there may be an increased risk for thromboembolism, e.g. at surgery, during days 5-15 of the cycle. In studies on blood flow and rheological conditions in fertile women, it seems advisable to standardize for time in the menstrual cycle. PMID- 2520802 TI - Local mechanical effects and humoral factors evoke degeneration of guinea pig uterine innervation. AB - Small porcelain pellets were inserted into one of the uterine horns of virgin guinea pigs. Mating caused pregnancies only in contralateral, non-pellet containing uterine horns. The number and morphology of uterine nerve structures was studied immunohistochemically. In pellet-surrounding tissues of virgin animals the number of nerves was reduced and remaining nerve structures displayed signs of degeneration. This nerve reduction was further advanced in early to mid pregnancy when almost no nerve structures could be detected. Myometrial strips were transplanted to the anterior eye chamber and became reinnervated by adrenergic nerves. The pattern and structure of the adrenergic reinnervation did not differ between strips taken from virgin animals, untreated or following chemical sympathectomy, or taken from primiparous animals following pregnancy induced sympathectomy. The adrenergic reinnervation of transplants from virgin animals was not affected by pregnancy of the recipient animal. It is suggested that the uterine innervation can be influenced by local, mechanically-induced effects, which during pregnancy co-operate with conceptus-related humoral factors to cause an almost total uterine nerve degeneration. The ability of uterine adrenergic reinnervation is probably not significantly influenced by local environmental tissue factor(s), but is related rather to extent of nerve damage. PMID- 2520803 TI - Sex ratio and placenta praevia. AB - In the authors' Department, 144 cases of placenta praevia were treated in the course of 15 years. This number amounted to 0.54% of all births. The sex ratio of fetuses in association with this complication was 166.6, which exceeds that of all neonates during the same period of time. A preponderance of male babies was noted when the material was further analysed according to maternal age, parity and neonatal birth weight. PMID- 2520804 TI - A model for prediction of endometrial cancer. AB - An epidemiological statistical model was designed to identify women at low and high risk of developing endometrial cancer (EC). The model was based on a number of easily identified clinical factors such as hirsutism, parity, diabetes mellitus, body mass index (BMI) and smoking. A retrospectively collected series of 77 women aged 31 to 45 years with EC and a prospectively collected series of 122 women aged 43 to 70 years with EC were compared with 1409 controls. The participation frequencies in the two case materials were 83 and 87%, respectively. The series were examined by means of a questionnaire. In a stepwise multiple logistic regression analysis of the entire series the following variables were found to be significant; hirsutism, parity, BMI, diabetes mellitus and smoking. PMID- 2520805 TI - Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome due to exogenous gonadotropin administration. AB - During the last decade, 154 patients treated with human menopausal gonadotropin human chorionic gonadotropin developed hyperstimulation necessitating hospitalization in 201 cycles. Moderate ovarian hyperstimulation occurred in 116 of the patients and severe ovarian hyperstimulation in 34. Sixteen patients underwent operative procedures. Twelve patients underwent puncture of the pleura or abdomen to drain symptomatic hydrothorax or ascites, with clinical improvement of the symptoms in all of them. Three patients had coagulation abnormalities, and 1 patient had thromboembolic phenomena. Hyperstimulation seems to be associated with an increased pregnancy rate, since seventy-five pregnancies (35%) occurred in the study group. Appropriate monitoring can reduce the rate of OHSS but it should be kept in mind that death due to OHSS may occur. PMID- 2520806 TI - Somatic complications and contraceptive techniques following legal abortion. AB - The purpose of this study was to establish the frequency of complications following legal abortion at our hospital, and also to examine the use of contraceptives among these patients. All women who requested abortion in the first or second trimester up to week 15 during an 8-month period (n = 1000) were included in the study. The patients were characterized with regard to age, parity, previous abortion, contraceptive technique before and after the abortion, presence of endocervical/urethral Chlamydia trachomatis and frequency and type of somatic complications following the abortion. The overall frequency of complications (infection, bleeding, recurettage) was 5.4%, and 2.7% were readmitted to the hospital. No certain relation between complication rate and gestational length, age or parity was seen, possibly related to selective prostaglandin pretreatment of the cervix and doxycycline treatment of patients with positive cultures for Chlamydia trachomatis. In contrast to previous Scandinavian studies, we found a smaller proportion of young patients, a low percentage of Chlamydial infections, and an unchanged high rate of failure to use contraceptives. PMID- 2520807 TI - The use of PGE2 for induction of labor in parturients with a previous cesarean section scar. AB - Controversy still dominates the discussion of the correct method for delivering patients with a previous cesarean section (C/S) scar. Although many have abandoned the slogan of "once a cesarean, always a cesarean", repeat cesareans are still the rule in many institutions. We have abandoned this dogma, and are now advancing to new ideas and are promoting a new protocol. Nineteen post-one cesarean section patients were induced on various indications by means of PGE2 pessaries. Close surveillance revealed no complications and 16 were delivered vaginally. All neonates had good Apgar scores, and all scars were found to be intact upon examination. We recommend cautious use of prostaglandins for selected post-cesarean patients. PMID- 2520808 TI - Small family norm and uterine cervical cancer. AB - Carcinoma of the cervix is known to have a multifactorial etiology and several factors are implicated in increasing the risk of eventual development of cervical malignancy in a woman. This communication attempts to highlight the small family norms in the prevention of uterine cervical cancer. Data on 117,411 cytologically screened women were considered in which 215 women were found to have cervical cancer. Age adjusted rates of malignancy per 100,000 women in three parity groups (0-2, 3-4 and 5+) were 91.1, 174.4 and 393.1 respectively. An increasing trend of malignancy was noticed with increasing parity in women who had their consummation of marriage before 18 years as well as after 18 years. It may be concluded that the small family norm (only two children) being advocated as a part of a national family welfare program would be another primary prevention measure against uterine cervical cancer. PMID- 2520809 TI - Calcium antagonist. Effect on adhesion formation. AB - In view of the role of the calcium ion in the inflammatory process, the effect of Diltiazem--a calcium antagonist--on the formation of intraperitoneal adhesions was studied in rats after induced trauma to the uterine serosa. It was found that intraperitoneal application of diltiazem inhibited adhesion formation to some extent, whereas intramuscularly administered Diltiazem did not. A dual effect of calcium antagonists on the formation of adhesions is suggested. PMID- 2520810 TI - Autoimmune antibodies and pregnancy outcome in women with false-positive syphilis test results. A retrospective controlled investigation of women from 5170 deliveries. AB - Nine pregnant women with false-positive syphilis test results, and 13 matched controls, were screened for autoimmune antibodies to ascertain whether any relationship might exist between their presence and the occurrence of obstetric problems. Investigations included assays for anti-cardiolipin antibodies (ACA), lupus anticoagulant (LAC), anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA) (including antibodies against extractable nuclear antigen), anti-smooth muscle antibodies, anti mitochondrial antibodies, anti-DNA antibodies, IgM-RF and complement factors. We found no significant difference in the incidence of obstetric problems between the two groups. Except that significantly more women were positive for ACA in the group with false-positive syphilis tests than in the control group, there were no differences between the groups with regard to the antibodies tested for. There was only one case of SLE, a patient positive for LAC, and who had had several miscarriages and no pregnancy resulting in a live birth. Our findings suggest that it would be unwarranted to devote resources to routine screening for these antibodies in healthy women with a false-positive syphilis test result, though the presence of LAC could possibly be used as an indicator of the risk of spontaneous abortion due to SLE. PMID- 2520811 TI - Changes in renal volume during normal pregnancy. AB - Twenty-four healthy pregnant women with a normal pregnancy demonstrated a significant uniform enlargement of both kidneys. The renal volumes increased by a maximum of 30% during pregnancy. However, this could not be attributed to hydronephrosis, as the patients were selected in such a way that none with pelvectasia participated in the study. All regained normal renal volume within the first week after delivery. It is well known that a glomerular hyperfiltration takes place during normal pregnancy. Possible pathogenetic mechanisms are discussed. PMID- 2520812 TI - The risk of developing urinary stress-incontinence after vaginal repair in continent women. A clinical and urodynamic follow-up study. AB - A study was performed to find out how often continent women develop urinary stress-incontinence after a Manchester operation for genito-urinary prolapse, and to ascertain whether factors in the selection of patients, or steps in the surgical procedure are responsible for producing stress-incontinence postoperatively. Seventy-three of 102 consecutive patients were continent before operation. Sixteen of the 73 women (22%) became stress incontinent. Advanced age increased the risk of developing urinary stress-incontinence. Twenty-five per cent of the women more than 60 years old developed stress-incontinence, but only 1 of 13 below the age of 60. Preoperative urethral closure pressure was significantly lower in those developing urinary stress-incontinence, and closure pressure was further reduced by surgery in this group, significantly more than in the women remaining continent. Surgery significantly reduced the pressure transmission ratio in the patients who developed urinary stress-incontinence, and less in the continent ones. The preoperative pressure transmission ratio, however, was not related to the risk of developing urinary stress-incontinence after the operation. The urodynamic examinations pre- and postoperatively demonstrated important changes in the urodynamic parameters produced by the Manchester procedure, but did not prove useful in determining which patients will develop urinary stress-incontinence. PMID- 2520814 TI - A double-blind cross-over study comparing flurbiprofen with naproxen-sodium for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea. AB - The efficacy of flurbiprofen (100 mg, twice daily) and naproxen-sodium (500 mg, twice daily) for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea was evaluated in a double blind cross-over study. All the women (n = 57) complained of severe (23%) or very severe (77%) dysmenorrhea which interfered with their daily life. Frequent absenteeism due to dysmenorrhea was reported by 39% of the women. The severity of pain was reduced (p less than 0.001) during treatment with both flurbiprofen and naproxen-sodium compared with the pain severity before the first dose. There was, however, no significant difference in mean pain relief achieved by the two drugs studied. During the study period, absenteeism was reported by only 6 (11%) and 3 (5%) women when treated with flurbiprofen or naproxen-sodium respectively. More than 60% of the women reported no or only mild interference with daily activities during treatment. No serious side effects were reported and none of the patients was obliged to terminate treatment because of side effects. Flurbiprofen and naproxen-sodium, at the dosages indicated, were both shown to be effective in relieving pain in patients suffering from severe primary dysmenorrhea and markedly improved their capacity for normal activities during menstruation. PMID- 2520813 TI - CO2 laser used for cancer in situ/Bowen's disease (VIN) and lichen sclerosus in the vulvar region. AB - The subject of this report is a surgical method, CO2 laser, for the treatment of non-invasive vulvar diseases. The combination therapy consists of skinning resection of the vulva of the central lesions and skin destruction by laser evaporation of the peripheral lesions. Over a period of five years 23 patients were treated with skinning laser resection of the vulva. Primary closure of the wound was performed in all cases. In three of the patients--two with the diagnosis of lichen sclerosus and one with Bowen's disease--who were first treated with total skinning vulvectomy, the histopathological examination revealed invasive cancer. They were treated again with total radical vulvectomy. In all cases less than 200 ml blood was lost at the time of surgery. The average duration of the operations was 25 minutes. The central section healed within eight to twelve days. All the patients with VIN were cured after the first radical treatment. The follow-up time is two to six years. PMID- 2520815 TI - Non-puerperal inversion of the uterus. PMID- 2520816 TI - Sinusoidal heart rate pattern and an normal biophysical profile in a severely compromised fetus. AB - A case is described in which a woman complained of weakened fetal movements, and a persistent sinusoidal heart rate pattern was demonstrated in the presence of normal fetal breathing movements, normal fetal tone, and normal amount of amniotic fluid. In view of the subjective complaints and disregarding the normal biophysical profile, termination of pregnancy was performed. A compromised, severely anemic fetus was delivered by cesarean section. The role of sinusoidal heart rate pattern and the limitations of biophysical scores as a single determinant of fetal well being are discussed. PMID- 2520817 TI - Paravaginal tumor: ureterolithiasis in an ectopic ureter. AB - A case of long-standing, undetected urinary tract malformation is presented. Over a period of 15 years the patient had gone for regular examinations by a gynecologist because of paravaginal tumor and urinary incontinence. Operation revealed urinary calculi in an ectopic ureter. Despite of life-long continuous urinary incontinence, an i.v. pyelography was never offered. Embryology, symptoms and an investigation program concerning ectopic ureter are presented. PMID- 2520818 TI - Successful late repair of anal sphincter rupture caused by delivery. AB - Successful surgical treatment of anal incontinence due to anal sphincter rupture of 14 years duration is described. Objective evaluations were performed with anal profilometry. PMID- 2520819 TI - A combination of gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog and human menopausal gonadotropins for ovulation induction in premature ovarian failure. AB - A combination of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist and human menopausal gonadotropins was used for ovulation induction in a patient with premature ovarian failure. A paradoxical suppression of any ovarian response was noted despite increasing doses of human menopausal gonadotropins. PMID- 2520820 TI - Nucleotide sequence and protein products of two new nodulation genes of Rhizobium meliloti, nodP and nodQ. AB - Previous studies had suggested the existence of nodulation (nod) genes downstream of nodG in Rhizobium meliloti strain 1021. We have established the DNA sequence and analyzed the translation products of the genes located in this position. Computer analysis of the DNA sequence revealed a number of overlapping putative open-reading frames (ORFs), so we constructed several clones that contained either full-length or truncated ORFs. The protein products of these clones were expressed in both R. meliloti and Escherichia coli in vitro transcription translation systems. These assays unambiguously defined the expressed ORFs, which we named nodP and nodQ. In addition, we found homology to these genes, via Southern hybridizations, elsewhere in the genome of R. meliloti strain 1021, and in other species of Rhizobium. The nodP gene also displayed homology to E. coli. A computer search revealed significant homology between NodQ and the GDP binding domain of elongation factor Tu (EF-Tu). PMID- 2520821 TI - Characterization of nodule-specific cDNA clones from Sesbania rostrata and expression of the corresponding genes during the initial stages of stem nodules and root nodules formation. AB - We have constructed a Sesbania rostrata stem nodule-specific cDNA library. By screening with heterologous probes from pea and soybean, we have isolated several nodulin cDNA clones. On the basis of nucleotide and amino acid sequence homology, two nearly full-length cDNA clones coding for two different leghemoglobin-like proteins have been identified. The inserts of two other clones reveal a high degree of amino acid sequence homology (81% and 72%) to the early nodulin Enod2 from soybean; the characteristic heptapeptide repeat units PPHEKPP and PPYEKPP of the soybean Enod2 are conserved in the proteins encoded by these Sesbania cDNA clones. The time course of Enod2 and leghemoglobin mRNA appearance during the formation of stem nodules and root nodules on S. rostrata was analyzed by northern blot hybridization. Significant differences were found for the initiation of mRNA accumulation of these nodulins between S. rostrata and soybean. PMID- 2520822 TI - Extension of host range of Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. trifolii caused by point mutations in nodD that result in alterations in regulatory function and recognition of inducer molecules. AB - The positive activation of several nodulation genes in strain ANU843 of Rhizobium leguminosarum biovar trifolii is mediated by the product of the nodD gene and by the interaction of NodD with plant-secreted inducer and anti-inducer compounds. We have mutagenized the nodD gene of strain ANU843 with nitrosoguanidine and have found that the ability of the mutated nodD products to interact with inducer and anti-inducer compounds is affected by the amino acid sequence in at least two key regions, including a novel area between amino acids 77 and 123. Several novel classes of mutants were recognized by phenotypic and molecular analysis of the mutant nodD genes. Classes 1 and 4 mutants were able to induce nodA expression independently of the addition of inducer and anti-inducer compounds and were unable to mediate autoregulation of the nodD gene. Classes 2 and 3 mutants retained several properties of the wild-type nodD, including the ability to interact with inducer and anti-inducer compounds and the capacity to autoregulate nodD expression. In addition, class 2 mutants showed an inducer-independent ability to mediate nodA expression to 10-fold higher levels over control strains. The class 3 mutant showed reactivity to compounds that had little or no inducing ability with the wild-type nodD. An alteration in NodD function was demonstrated with classes 2 and 3 mutants, which showed greatly enhanced ability to complement a Tn5-induced mutation in the nodD1 gene of strain NGR234 and to restore nodulation ability on the tropical legume siratro. Mutants of nodD possessing inducer-independent ability to activate nod gene expression (classes 1, 2, and 4) were capable of extending the host range of R. l. bv. trifolii to the nonlegume Parasponia. DNA sequence analysis showed that single base changes were responsible for the altered phenotypic properties of five of six mutants examined. Four of the six mutations affected amino acid residues in a putative receiver domain in the N-terminal end of the nodD protein. PMID- 2520823 TI - Isolation and characterization of a Rhizobium loti gene required for effective nodulation of Lotus pedunculatus. AB - A Rhizobium loti gene required for effective invasion of the host Lotus pedunculatus has been identified by transposon Tn5 mutagenesis. Cosmids that complemented a previously isolated mutation (239) at this invasion (inv) locus were identified by in planta complementation and used to construct a physical map of the gene region. The insertion site of Tn5 in PN239 was mapped to a 7.5-kb EcoRI fragment, which complemented the mutation when subcloned into pLAFR1. Further Tn5 mutagenesis of the 7.5-kb fragment was carried out in Escherichia coli using bacteriophage lambda 467, and the mutations homogenotized into R. loti NZP2037. Three additional Fix- mutations were isolated, and these were found to map adjacent to the position of the original mutation in strain PN239. All the other Tn5 insertions isolated in the 7.5-kb fragment gave a Fix+ phenotype on L. pedunculatus. Electron microscopic examination of the L. pedunculatus nodules induced by the isolated Fix- mutants showed that bacteria were either blocked in release from the infection threads or were unable to undergo normal bacteroid development. The inv locus as defined by the Tn5 insertions was sequenced, and a single open-reading frame (ORF) of 576 bp, corresponding to a polypeptide of 21.3 kDa, was identified. The position and orientation of this ORF were consistent with those of the isolated Tn5 Fix- insertions. PMID- 2520824 TI - Identification, cloning, and sequence analysis of the nitrogen regulation gene ntrC of Agrobacterium tumefaciens C58. AB - We describe the cloning of an ntrC gene of Agrobacterium tumefaciens C58 by interspecific complementation of an Escherichia coli ntrC mutant. Restriction mapping and Southern blot analysis of the complementing clone identified a 1.7-kb EcoRI-PvuII DNA fragment whose sequence was determined. Analysis of this sequence revealed coding regions corresponding to a complete ntrC gene and the C-terminal region of an ntrB gene. Amino acid sequence comparisons of A. tumefaciens NTRC protein with NTRC sequences from Rhizobium meliloti, Bradyrhizobium sp. (Parasponia), Klebsiella pneumoniae, E. coli, and Salmonella typhimurium show strong sequence conservation supporting DNA hybridization data, demonstrating strong evolutionary homology among ntrC genes of Rhizobiaceae. The C58 NTRC protein has been identified, by 35S-labeling, in a T7 RNA polymerase (pT7-7) expression vector system. PMID- 2520825 TI - Localization of ice nucleation activity and the iceC gene product in Pseudomonas syringae and Escherichia coli. AB - Ice nucleation activity and the iceC gene product were quantified in different subcellular fractions of the Pseudomonas syringae source strain and in Escherichia coli containing the cloned iceC gene to determine the activity of this protein in different subcellular locations. Ice nuclei were nearly completely retained during isolation of cell envelopes but exhibited a decrease in the temperature at which they were expressed. Ice nucleation activity was found in Triton X-100 insoluble membrane fragments as well as in slowly sedimenting and high-density membrane fragments. Nearly all ice nucleation activity was associated with the outer membrane because the partitioning of 3 ketodeoxyoctonate (a lipopolysaccharide component) and ice nuclei in cell fractions were similar to and opposite that of NADH oxidase (a cytoplasmic membrane component). The iceC gene product had an apparent mass of 150,000 Da based on migration in SDS-polyacrylamide gels. This protein was not found in soluble cell components. Nearly all of the iceC gene product, which occurred in low abundance, was associated with the outer membrane of both P. syringae and E. coli. Therefore, the iceC gene product is located at and is maximally active in or on the outer membrane of cells of the source strain and heterologous strains. PMID- 2520826 TI - A potential vector of Schistosoma mansoni in Uruguay. AB - Susceptibility experiments were carried out with a Biomphalaria straminea-like planorbid snail (Biomphalaria aff. straminea, species inquirenda) from Espinillar, near Salto (Uruguay), in the area of the Salto Grande reservoir, exposed individually to 5 miracidia of Schistosoma mansoni (SJ2 and BH2 strains). Of 130 snails exposed to the SJ2 strain, originally infective to Biomphalaria tenagophila, 30 became infected (23%). The prepatent (precercarial) period ranged from 35 to 65 days. The cercarial output was irregular, following no definite pattern, varying from 138 to 76,075 per snail (daily average 4.3 to 447.5) and ending up with death. Three specimens that died, without having shed cercariae, on days 69 (2) and 80 after exposure to miracidia, had developing secondary sporocysts in their tissues, justifying the prospect of a longer precercarial period in these cases. In a control group of 120 B. tenagophila, exposed to the SJ2 strain, 40 became infected, showing an infection rate (33.3%) not significantly different from that of the Espinillar snail (chi 2 = 3.26). No cercariae were produced by any of the Espinillar snails exposed to miracidia of the BH2 strain, originally infective to Biomphalaria glabrata. Four specimens showed each a primary sporocyst in one tentacle, which disappeared between 15 and 25 days post-exposure, and two others died with immature, very slender sporocysts in their tissues on days 36 and 54. In a control group of 100 B. glabrata exposed to BH2 miracidia, 94 shed cercariae (94%) and 6 remained negative. Calculation of Frandsen's (1979a, b) TCP/100 index shows that "Espinillar Biomphalaria-SJ2 S. mansoni" is a vector-parasite "compatible" combination.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2520827 TI - Study of a population of Biomphalaria tenagophila (Orbigny, 1835) and of schistosomiasis transmission in "Alto da Boa Vista", Rio de Janeiro. AB - The present study was performed using data from a Biomphalaria tenagophila population located in a watercress garden in the Alto da Boa Vista region representing an isolated focal point of schistosomiasis in the city of Rio de Janeiro. The density and age structure of this B. tenagophila population and its rate of infection by Schistosoma mansoni were studied for a period of 15 months. The snail population showed seasonal variation in density, with a decrease in number of individuals at the beginning of the rainy season. At the end of this season, the population consisted mainly of adults (92.8% in May 1985 and 82.8% in April 1986). The population growth curve was logistic and of sigmoidal configuration. Schistosoma mansoni cercariae were eliminated over a short period of time (March, April and May 1986). The release of cercariae of S. mansoni and of birds seems to depend on environmental temperature, which during certain months would show a daily variation of up to 13 degrees C, with the lower thermal limit approaching the limit value for sporocyte development. PMID- 2520828 TI - Hyperparasitism by helminths: new records of cestodes and nematodes in proteocephalid cestodes from South American siluriform fishes. AB - Proteocephalid cestode hyperparasites are reported from numerous proteocephalids occurring in pimelodid fishes in different regions of Brazil. In addition, three specimens of a nematode hyperparasite are reported from the proteocephalid cestode Choanoscolex abscissus from the pimelodid fish Pseudoplatystoma corruscans in Brazil. Previous records of cestode and nematode hyperparasites of cestodes are listed, and the possible identities of the Brazilian records are discussed. PMID- 2520830 TI - [Dispersion of Biomphalaria straminea in the State of Sergipe: a comparative study within an interval of 19 years]. AB - The aim of the current paper was to study in the state of Sergipe the population distribution and interactions between two species of Biomphalaria, the snail vectors of Schistosoma mansoni in the northeastern Brazil. Data collected in 1969 showed that B. straminea, with only one exception, was limited to the semi-dry region, while B. glabrata was found to live exclusively in the forest region, both in the state of Sergipe. This spatial distribution seemed to suggest that the above Biomphalaria species used to dominate specific territories. Snail collections made in 1988 in the same 37 places searched in 1969, showed that B. straminea has invaded territories previously occupied by B. glabrata, suggesting that a process of competitive displacement is taking place between these two closely related species. Natural snail infection rates were determined and some ecological aspects of the snail breeding places were registered. PMID- 2520829 TI - [The influence of temperature on the biology of triatominae. IX. Rhodnius nasutus Stal, 1859 (Hemiptera, Reduviidae)]. AB - The influence of temperature on the biology of Rhodnius nasutus Stal, 1859 (Hemiptera, Reduviidae) was studied in order to obtain a larger number of triatominae reared in laboratory to use in xenodiagnosis and to be able to get information for their proper control. The experiments were performed in two climatized chambers at 25 +/- 0.5 degrees C and 30 +/- 1 degrees C, 70 +/- 5% of relative humidity and photoperiod of 12 hours. Data in relation to evolution cycle, period between emergency of adults and first oviposition, fecundity, fertility, amount of blood ingested and fast resistance, are presented. The mean duration of the evolutive cycle for males and females was 145.7 days at 25 degrees C and 114.2 days at 30 degrees C. The mean of blood ingested to complete the evolutive cycle was 304.3 mg and 350.3 mg, at 25 degrees C and 30 degrees C, respectively. The triatominae survival on conditions of absolute fast was significantly higher at 25 degrees C than at 30 degrees C (P less than 0.01). PMID- 2520831 TI - [The resistance of fasting and nutritional aspects of Triatoma lecticularia (Stal, 1859) (Hemiptera, Reduviidae, Triatominae)]. AB - The resistance to fasting of Triatoma lecticularia was studied in all phases of the life cycle and the insect weighed in different nutritional situations (fed, not fed, death after starvation). The temperature and humidity levels were also recorded. The nymphal phases showed increasing resistance to fasting as demonstrated by the following averages (days) 1st 45.84; 2nd 61; 3rd 88.74; 4th 123.44; 5th 162.30. Upon the adult phase, the averages were similar to those of the 3rd stage for the male insects 88.94 and for the females 83.66. The weighing technique allowed for the measurement of the quantity of blood ingested, the weight loss during the fast and the percentage weight loss as related to the initial weight. The species is found in the Neartic region where it has been found infected with Trypanosoma cruzi and is associated with the terrestrial rodents Neotoma micropus Baird and Spermophilus variagatus (Erxelebem). PMID- 2520832 TI - [The Dot immunoenzymatic assay on nitrocellulose (Dot-ELISA) in the diagnosis of Chagas disease. II. Seroepidemiologic study in 4 rural communities of Venezuela]. AB - A survey of human Trypanosoma cruzi infection in four rural communities of two Venezuelan states with different epidemiological Chagas' disease situations was carried out using the Dot-ELISA and conventional serology. In the two hamlets of Zulia state, no seropositives were found in the under-15 age group whereas seropositivity in the over-15 group was 15.6%. In Cojedes state, the two hamlets studied exhibited a seropositivity of 8.9% in the under-15 group and 51.6% in the over-15 group. Upon comparison with conventional methods, Dot-ELISA evidenced high co-positivity, co-negativity and efficiency indexes. In the samples taken from Zulia, the predictive value of the test was 66% and 60% for cytoplasmatic and integral antigens, respectively; with the Cojedes samples, 100% and 95%. The results suggest that Dot-ELISA could be a practical alternative for seroepidemiological Chagas' disease studies in underdeveloped regions. PMID- 2520833 TI - [Evaluation of immunoglobin isotype specific to Leishmania in tegumentary American leishmaniasis]. AB - Leishmania-specific immunoglobulin subclass response was evaluated in 133 patients infected with Leishmania braziliensis. The indirect immunofluorescent antibody test (IFAT) was employed with amastigotes of L. mexicana amazonensis as antigen. Among the 133 sera obtained at consultation for diagnosis of active lesions, IgM was detected in 54 following absorption with Staphylococcus aureus Cowan strain I, and in 5 sera prior to absorption. IgM reactive with Leishmania antigen was only found in sera from patients whose lesions had evolved over the past two months or less. Leishmania-specific IgG was detected in all sera prior to absorption. Sera obtained at the time of recurrence or after complete healing of lesions presented only specific IgG. The combined use of the Montenegro skin test and specific IgM increased the sensitivity of immunodiagnostic methods in patients with lesions of less than 2 months duration. Normal control volunteers were negative for specific IgM and unreactive to Montenegro skin testing. Among 16 patients with non-leishmanial lesions, 3 with sporotrichosis showed IgG reactive with Leishmania; none, including 4 with lesions of less than two months duration, showed specific IgM. We conclude that in patients infected with L. braziliensis the presence of specific IgG and IgM is associated with the time of lesion evolution and the primary or recurrent nature of the lesions. In addition, the combined use of IgM titer and Montenegro reactivity is of potential utility in the diagnosis of early lesions. PMID- 2520834 TI - [Leishmaniasis in Bolivia. IV. The dog in the cycles of leishmaniasis in Bolivia]. AB - In Bolivia, the dog is involved in the cycle of visceral leishmaniasis (Leishmania (Le.) chagasi) in the Yungas (alt. 1,000-2,000 m), and also in the cycle of cutaneous leishmaniasis (Le. (V.) braziliensis) in the Alto Beni (alt. 400-600 m). But it plays a different role in the two cycles. In the Yungas focus, it is the main reservoir of Le. (Le.) chagasi and the source of contamination for man. In the Alto Beni focus, it is only a "victim-host", like man, of Le. (V.) braziliensis; the reservoir of which is unknown. Wild mammals are very likely to be involved. PMID- 2520835 TI - [Widal reaction and phenotypes in children with typhoid fever (preliminary study)]. AB - Recognition of genetic heterogeneity in typhoid fever patients might allow studies on the behaviour of definite cohorts regarding this infection, which would be important for clinical and epidemiological purposes. Under the hypothesis that agglutinins response (Widal test) is a suitable phenotype for this objective, associations between results of this response at admission (positive and negative) and clinical and hematological variables were explored in 91 children with bacteriologically confirmed typhoid fever, admitted to a metropolitan hospital at Santiago, Chile, during 1981-82 period. Association between gender and negative Widal test was found in males when this test was performed during the third week of disease (OR = 10, p = 0.52) as well as a tendency of females to express figures below the mean for total WBC count in patients older than 10 years (OR = 2.43, p = 0.019) and for neutrophils (%) in younger than this age when the Widal test was negative in the latter (OR = 10, p = 0.016). These preliminary findings suggest that Widal test and gender might interact for determining the presumptive heterogeneity in this children group. PMID- 2520836 TI - [Cardiac involvement in Kawasaki disease]. AB - Cardiovascular complications (CVC) of Kawasaki disease (KD) are described in 15 affected children (10 boys, mean age 18.5 months). Clinical records, electrocardiographic tracings (ECG) and bidimensional echocardiograms (BDE) were analysed. In each case the first BDE was done at clinical diagnosis (mean time 10 days from initial symptoms of disease), then at weekly intervals for the first month and each two weeks along the second month. In children showing persistent coronary artery lesions (CAL) BDE was repeated monthly and in patients without CVC at three month intervals. During follow up, no definite clinical evidence of miocardial ischemia was found, but abnormal BDE recordings were obtained from 12/15 patient: CAL in 9/15; right ventricular, left ventricular and aortic enlargement in 3/15. CAL were located at the left coronary artery (LCA) in 3/9 (one LCA aneurysm) and at both coronary arteries in 6/9 (including 3 cases with bilateral aneurysms). All patients were given aspirin and seven were also treated with intravenous gammaglobulin, this last at day 9 (mean) of disease, but 5 of them developed CVC, including 3 cases of CAL. PMID- 2520837 TI - [Mortality in pediatric intensive care units. The role of acute failure of organs and systems]. AB - Previous health state and acute failure of six organ system (cardiovascular, respiratory, neurologic, hematologic, renal and digestive systems) at admission to a pediatric intensive care unit (ICU) were evaluated in 71 patients that died along one year in an ICU of a pediatric hospital at Santiago, Chile. Acute organic system failure (AOF) and chronic organic failure (COF) were defined on clinical, laboratory and therapeutic standards at hand in this country. COF was present in 56% of the cases, and was mainly due to congenital heart malformations. At admission 44% of patients showed evidence of AOF most frequently of the respiratory (54%) and neurologic (44%) systems. Multisystemic failure occurred in 55% of the cases being present in 90.9% of patients with chronic heart diseases and in 77.7% of children admitted by different causes of sepsis. Multiple organ failure was the most frequent cause of death (33%) affecting preferentially patients with COF secondary to lung infections (40%) and central nervous system diseases (20%). AOF of the central nervous system was the second global cause of death and the first among previously healthy children. Irreversible respiratory malfunction caused 21% of deaths. PMID- 2520839 TI - [Streptococcal antibodies in a general population. Comparative study in 2 periods at a health service]. AB - Antibodies to streptococcal Estreptolysin O and DNAse B were sampled from 1986 through 1989 in 135 healthy individuals of both sexes, grouped by age, at a metropolitan area of Santiago, Chile, and their geometric mean titers (GMT) were calculated. GMT of 110 U (Todd) for Antiestreptolysin and 194 U for Anti-DNAse B were recorded in the whole sample. Antiestreptolysin O titers were 62 UT for age group 5 to 9 years, 127 UT for 10 to 14 year olds and 114 UT for ages 15 or older. Anti-DNAse B titers for the same age groups were 158 U, 240 U and 198 U respectively. No significant differences were detected between these results and those from an earlier (1978 to 1981) study, except for Anti-DNase B titers in 5 to 9 years olds, which were significantly lower (GMT 158 U vs. 270 U) in the most recent screening. PMID- 2520838 TI - [Bacterial isolation in infants hospitalized for acute diarrhea]. AB - Bacteria were investigated in stools of 156 children under two years of age admitted to the pediatric wards of a general hospital at the western metropolitan area of Santiago, Chile, because of acute diarrhea with only one stool sample. A known pathogenic agent was isolated from 115 cases (73.7%), this being a bacteria in 87/115 (75.6%). Most prevalent microorganisms were Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC). (65.5%), specially serogroups 0111, 0119 and 055, Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) (18.4%), Campylobacter yeyuni (13.8%), Salmonellae (9.2%) and Shigellae (6.9%). Invasive Escherichia coli (EIEC) and Aeromonas hydrophila were observed in only one case. Yersinia enterocolitica was not isolated. Age was under one year in 92% of patients and 83% were normally or slightly under nourished. Fecal leucocytes were abnormally increased (greater than 5 per high power field) in 41.4% of positive bacterial isolates, in 83% of children with Shigellae, in 50% of those with EPEC and Salmonellae and in 25% of the Campylobacter yeyuni group. PMID- 2520840 TI - [Myelogram in systemic juvenile rheumatoid arthritis]. AB - A retrospective study was done to evaluate bone marrow smears in seven children with systemic onset juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA). Eosinophilia and monocytosis were found in all the patients and in five there also were increased proportions of mononuclear basophils. Anemia is common in this disease and erythroid hypoplasia was present in six cases. Four patients had increased numbers of plasma cells and three had histiocytes with hemophagocytic activity. We did not find hemophagocytosis, as reported before, in bone marrow smears of JRA patients. PMID- 2520841 TI - [Mortality by birth weight and survival by gestational age and route of delivery in premature infants]. AB - Specific mortality rates for birthweight (BW) and survival for gestational age were determined in babies under 1500 g and less than 34 weeks gestational age (GA), which were born in a private hospital at Santiago, Chile, between 1983 and 1988. Mortality rates were 875/1,000 in babies under 750 g, 391/1,000 for BW between 750 and 999 g, 185/1,000 for BW 1,000 to 1,249 g, and 125/1,000 in newborns who weighed 1,250 to 1,499 g. Survival increased with gestational age from 39% under 26 weeks to 57% at 26 and 27 weeks, reaching 83% at 28 and 29 weeks, 90% at 30 and 31 and 87% at 32 and 33 weeks. No significant difference was found neither in mortality nor in intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) incidence between newborns delivered by cesarean section or vaginal way. Survival of babies born after 26 weeks GA and weighing over 750 g was comparable with that reported by others. The type of delivery is not likely to play a role by itself in mortality or in incidence of severe ICH. PMID- 2520842 TI - [Acquirement of the Spanish vocabulary among rural and urban students of the 9th region]. AB - In order to test the assumption that rural children from the Araucania region at southern Chile start school with significant handicaps in the acquirement of the spanish vocabulary when compared with their urban peers, the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test (PPVT, spanish version) was used to compare a first group including all those children attending third grade at a public school from a low socio economic level neighborhood of the city of Temuco, Chile (n = 44, age average 9.01 years, s = 0.51) against a second group including all those children attending the same grade at three public schools from the rural areas surrounding the same city (n = 37, age average 9.07 years, s = 0.52). Previously, 19 children aged 3 to 5 years were tested both with the PPVT and with the chilean instrument for the measurement of development at the age group (TEPSI). Both scores show a positive correlation (r = 0.64, p = 0.05). Average scores for the PPVT among rural children were lower than among urban children (64.07, s = 11.36 against 103.05, s = 10.99, p = less than 0.01). In a second stage, 39 children attending 7th grade at the urban school (age average 13.61 years, s = 0.64) and 27 children of the same grade from the rural schools (age average 13.69 years, s = 0.69) were tested with the same instrument.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2520843 TI - [Prevalence of endemic goiter among school children of central and southern Chile]. AB - The prevalence of endemic goiter was evaluated during 1986 in 1,015 school age children from basic public schools of Santiago and Temuco, Chile. The prevalence of goiter, defined by WHO's standards was 7.6% as a whole, without differences related to children's geographical origin. A greater prevalence of goiter, in females than in males, which increased with age, was detected. Prevalence of endemic goiter decreased from year 1982 to year 1986 from 18.8% to 7.4% in similar samples of school children from Santiago. This change may be due to preventive iodination of table salt. PMID- 2520844 TI - [Importance and characteristics of burns in a pediatric emergency service]. AB - The purpose of this study was to describe the magnitude and some relevant aspects of children with burn injuries as seen at the emergency room of a metropolitan hospital at Santiago, Chile, from a random sample of 22,430 consultations from a total of 137,220. Two hundred and thirty seven burn injuries were detected corresponding to 5.2% of all surgical consultations and 1.1% from the whole sample, 56.5% occurring in males, 73.4% of the affected patients were under 5 years of age, 72% of lesions were caused by hot liquids, 51.6% affected the upper limbs and 4.5% were considered to require admission to hospital wards. Consultations most frequent in july (winter) the lesser incidence occurring in february (summer). Preventive programs addressed to burn injuries should cover children under 5 years of age and should be specially focussed on winter and safe handling of hot liquids. PMID- 2520845 TI - [Hommage to Prof. Adalberto Steeger Schaeffer. Master of the Chilean pediatrics]. PMID- 2520846 TI - The apparent association constant of calcium and bilirubinate ions in Triton X 100 micelles. AB - Calcium bilirubinate [Ca(HB)2], a major component of pigment gallstones, rapidly precipitates from aqueous solutions, thereby precluding an accurate determination of the apparent association constant (K') of calcium (Ca2+ and monohydrogenated bilirubinate (HB) ions. In this study, we determine the K' in solutions of Triton X-100, a nonionic detergent with a critical micellar concentration of 0.01 g/dL, by analysis of spectral shifts, using a Hewlett-Packard diode array spectrophotometer. In the absence of Ca2+, 10 microM sodium bilirubinate (NaHB) solutions were incorporated into Triton X-100 micelles in 0.15 M NaCl, 0.10 M Tris Cl, pH 8, as evidenced by a progressive shift in the wavelength maximum (lambda max) of 10 microM HB from 438 to 458 nm in 0-0.1 g/dL (0-10 microM of micelles/L) Triton. Thus the lambda max plateau occurred with 1 mole of HB per micelle of Triton. As Ca2+, 0-90 microM, was added to 100 microM NaHB in 0.5 g/dL Triton X-100, there was a progressive downward shift in the lambda max of HB from 458 to 434 nm; an isosbestic point was present at 448 nm. A calibration curve using ratios of absorbance (Abs) 420/470 for known concentrations of Ca(HB)2 or NaHB was used to determine the mole fraction of Ca(HB)2. The spectral data were consistent with the equilibrium equation: Ca2+ + 2 HB = Ca(HB)2.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2520847 TI - Effects of misoprostol on histamine-related gastric secretion in man. AB - Misoprostol, a prostaglandin E1 analogue was administered orally to male volunteers in doses of 50, 100, 200 and 400 mcg and its effects on gastric secretion compared with those observed following placebo. All doses significantly inhibited basal acid secretion by up to 98% and also inhibited histamine stimulated secretion during the first 60 minutes of stimulation. Only the 50 mcg dose did not cause a significant reduction in acid output over the entire 2 hour period of histamine stimulation. The effect on gastric secretory volume was much less than that on acid, and in general the reductions were not statistically significant. Pepsin concentration was reduced during basal secretion only. Misoprostol is a potent inhibitor of basal acid secretion and moderately inhibits histamine-stimulated acid secretion with a duration of action of at least three hours following drug ingestion. PMID- 2520848 TI - Active viral B hepatitis in parenteral drug abusers with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). AB - Eighty-percent of 47 parenteral drug abusers with hepatomegaly and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome had HBV DNA in serum, although only 27% were HBsAg or "e" antigen-positive by polyclonal radioimmunoassay. Liver biopsies from each of 37 HBV DNA seropositive patients showed HBV DNA and were HBcAg-positive. The absence of positive HBsAg and "e" antigen in HBV DNA-positive patients was attributable to the presence of immune complexes; after in vitro dissociation of these complexes there was an increase in HBsAg from 24% to 86%, and of "e" antigen from 19% to 62%. These data indicate that actively replicating hepatitis B virus is common in patients with AIDS, and that precautions should be taken to prevent its dissemination. Therapy in these patients should address both human immunodeficiency and hepatitis B virus infections. PMID- 2520849 TI - Management of severe acute pancreatitis: an evolving approach. AB - No major breakthrough has occurred in our understanding of the etiology or pathogenesis of acute pancreatitis. However, significant advances in management of the disease have resulted in improved survival. These include disease severity assessment by Ranson's criteria or by similar other clinical methods, as well as by computerized tomography (CT). The use of contrast-enhanced CT has made possible early diagnosis of pancreatic necrosis by showing areas of hypoperfusion. Once the presence of necrosis is established, CT-guided needle aspiration of necrotic tissue can be performed for gram stain and for culture of bacteria. This approach makes possible earlier diagnosis of pancreatic sepsis, and hence earlier surgery. Other important contributions have been radiologic and endoscopic interventional techniques. Percutaneous catheter drainage of rapidly enlarging acute pseudocysts can obviate the serious complication of free rupture of pseudocysts into the peritoneal cavity; similar drainage of infected pseudocysts may also provide a definitive or at least a palliative therapy. Bleeding from eroded vessels, false aneurysms or pseudocysts can often be successfully controlled by selective angiography. In severe acute biliary pancreatitis, endoscopic sphincterotomy within 72 hours of admission has been shown to reduce morbidity, mortality, and hospital stay. These interventional techniques permit surgery to be postponed until the most optimal time. The advances cited above, as well as improved intensive care and nutritional management, are beginning to reduce the high mortality of severe acute pancreatitis. PMID- 2520851 TI - Meal-stimulated gastrin release in normal men and women. AB - Due to the importance of possible differences in gastrin and parietal cell secretory functions related to gender, we attempted to determine whether normal men and women release gastrin differently in response to a standard meal. Eight male and 9 female volunteers (mean age 25 and 23 years) ingested a standard meal consisting of 15g of protein, 13g of fat, and 36g of carbohydrates. Plasma for gastrin determination was drawn at baseline and at 5, 10, 15, 20, 30, 40, 60, 90 and 120 minutes after eating. No significant differences were found in basal or meal-stimulated gastrin of males or females. PMID- 2520850 TI - Clinical features of patients with acute myocardial infarction presenting with and without typical chest pain: an inner city experience. AB - The clinical features of an inner-city population of 304 patients presenting with acute myocardial infarction (MI) with and without typical chest pain, were studied retrospectively. This population consisted of 172 men and 132 women; 155 (51%) were black, 88 (29%) hispanic, and 61 (20%) white, by self-identification. Typical ischemic chest pain was the presenting symptom in 85% (258); 15% (46) presented with nonchest symptoms, most frequently shortness of breath, abdominal pain, and dizziness. But the frequency of such nonchest symptoms was similar in both groups. When patients were grouped by the presence or absence of chest pain, the proportions of those without chest pain were significantly higher for blacks (22.7%) than hispanics (9.1%, P = 0.001) or whites (4.9%, P less than 0.01). Patients without chest pain also had higher admission systolic (P less than 0.01) and diastolic (P less than 0.01) blood pressures and more frequent histories of congestive heart failure (P less than 0.05), and more often presented with pulmonary edema (P = 0.001) than those with chest pain. Both groups were similar in age, sex, history of hypertension, and presence of hypertension on admission, defined as greater than or equal to 160/95 mmHg, prevalence of diabetes, history of smoking, previous MI, type of MI, history of angina, and mortality rates. Patients without chest pain were characterized by black race, history of congestive heart failure, elevated blood pressure and pulmonary edema than those with typical ischemic chest pain. Thus significant delays in the diagnosis and treatment of this important clinical entity may be reduced by alerting clinicians to these features and by educating selected patient groups. PMID- 2520852 TI - Introduction to the imaging of biliary obstruction. PMID- 2520853 TI - Ecographic diagnostic approach. PMID- 2520854 TI - Duodenal endoscopic approach: ERCP. PMID- 2520855 TI - Transhepatic approach: PTC. PMID- 2520857 TI - Percutaneous removal of a Kirschner wire from the thoracic aorta. PMID- 2520856 TI - Hepatobiliary scintigraphy. PMID- 2520858 TI - Imaging and clinical medicine today. Editorial. PMID- 2520860 TI - Hydroureteronephrosis in Crohn's disease. PMID- 2520859 TI - Endoscopic internal biliary drainage. PMID- 2520861 TI - [Cephalometric study of the intermaxillary sagittal relationship and final clinical diagnosis]. AB - Due to the difficulties in finding a reliable cephalometric method to determine the true intermaxillary sagital relationship, the usefulness of the Freeman (AXB) and the Beatty (AXD) cephalometric methods are studied and, furthermore, which of them best demonstrate said sagital relationship. To perform this a comparative analysis of cephalometric methods AXB and AXD with the clinical cephalometric diagnosis were carried out using a sample of 33 individuals of both genders, between the ages 18 and 26 years, without orthodontic treatment, complete dentition and not taking into consideration third molars. The frequency distributions of class I, II and III were obtained through values given by methods AXD and AXB. The cephalometric clinical diagnosis was performed by 2 experienced observers thus obtaining absolute coincidence in their observations. The validity of methods AXD and AXB were measured in concordant percentages taking the cephalometric clinical diagnosis as the basis for comparison. Therefore, the most valid one is the cephalometric method with the highest percentage in concordance with the cephalometric clinical diagnosis. It was found that the frequency distribution of classes I, II and III are similar coincident with the one given by the cephalometric clinical diagnosis. The most valid method was the AXB bearing with the cephalometric clinical diagnosis a 90.91% concordance. The AXD method gave with the cephalometric clinical diagnosis a 75.76% concordance, which in relation with AXB, is a slightly lower percentage; however, demonstrating validity. PMID- 2520862 TI - [Effect of a sodium fluoride solution at different temperatures on the solubility of deciduous dental enamel]. AB - An in vitro study about the influence of temperature on the solubility of deciduous powdered enamel protected by sodium fluoride (0.05%) was made to observe the variation of the weight loss when the tissue was exposed to 0.5 N lactate buffer at pH 4.5. The protective capacity of fluoride to decrease the acid solubility in temporary tooth enamel presumably can be attribute to increase the temperature measured by scale centrigrade. PMID- 2520863 TI - [Odontomas. Statistical analysis]. AB - This was a study of the clinical characteristics of Odontomas (benign odontogenic tumors) discovered at the Barros Luco-Trudeau Hospital between the years 1976 and 1983 by means of the statistical method. The data which was compiled was tabulated and the values expressed as ratios. The results were compared with those published by other investigators thus showing the differences and similarities with the analyzed sample. PMID- 2520864 TI - [Hypomineralization of milk teeth of prematurely born children--effect of some factors for its origination]. AB - A comparative study was carried out between two groups of children--115 prematurely born and 4830 full-term babies in order to establish the effect of pregnancy duration of the origination of hypomineralization of the milk teeth. The effect of the following factors was also studied and compared: complications of pregnancy, feeding of the newborn and diseases during early childhood of full term and prematurely born children. The authors established that the prematurely born children were a risk group for the origination of milk teeth hypomineralization. The complications of pregnancy, mixed or bottle feeding as well as the frequent illnesses are additional aggravating factors in the origination of milk teeth hypomineralization. The authors recommend timely follow up care and prophylaxis of all prematurely born children. PMID- 2520865 TI - [Melanocytic population of buccal mucosa of patients with lichen planus]. AB - The authors have studied the melanocytic population in oral mucosa (Dihydorxyphenyl alanine, silver impregnation, hematoxilin-eosin) of 20 patients (10 with Lichen ruber planus and 10 with Alopecia areata). The melanocytic population in oral mucosa ranges from 605 to 1555 cells per m2 (964 +/- 312 on the average). Normal population, in case of lichen planus of oral mucosa, is disturbed in the regions of the pathological process. The deviations established are discussed. PMID- 2520866 TI - [Osteoplasty of the lower jaw with demineralized allotransplants]. AB - A five-year experimental and clinical experience is presented in this paper from the studies on the osteoplastic properties of demineralized ostetoransplants (DOT) in plastic surgery of the lower jaw. The comparative evaluation of the results from the experiments shows that the DOT as well as the frozen allotransplants are substitute for newly formed osseous tissue but the regeneration process in transplantation of DOT advances faster contrary to the frozen transplants. Twenty nine patients with defects of the lower jaw underwent operations under clinical conditions. Positive results were attained in 25 of them (86.7%) and negative--in 4 (13.3%). The saturation of DOT with antiseptics (dimexid, gentamycin, etc.) allows its use also in infected defects of the lower jaw. PMID- 2520867 TI - [Rheoencephlographic studies during general halothane anesthesia and laughing gas in stomatological treatment of children at the out-patient department]. AB - Thirty two children, aged from 6 to 14 were studied by the rheoencephalographic method during general halothane and laughing gas anesthesia, stomatologically treated under out-patient department conditions. The quantitative analysis of the rheoencephalographic curves made of the method of differentia, the data being compared one hour before the general anesthesia, during the stage of surgical anesthesia and one hour after it. Statistically significant data were established showing pulse supply improvement and reduction of vascular tone of the brain blood vessels during general anesthesia and one hour after it. The expedience of the application of the rheoencephalographic method during general anesthesia is stressed upon as well as the potentialities of its application in the stomatological practice. The positive qualities of the method of general anesthesia applied for the stomatological treatment of children under out-patient department conditions are confirmed. PMID- 2520868 TI - [Line of cutting edges of the upper teeth and its conformity with the contours of nose and lower lip while smiling]. AB - Observations were carried out--visual and via photos--of 180 subjects (83 males and 97 females) in order to establish the incidence of coincidence between the line of the cutting edges of the upper front teeth with the contours of the base of the nose and the lower lip while smiling. It has been established that the total configuration of the cutting edges is perceived visually as a curved wave like line, whose arch, in the majority of the cases, does not correspond to the form of the nose but, most often, coincides with the contuour of the lower lip. Attaining of the mentioned harmonious conformity between those two linesis recommended in the working out of aesthetic prosthetic constructions. PMID- 2520869 TI - [Roller driver in the treatment of lower jaw deviation after resection]. AB - The unilateral resection of the lower jaw results into displacement of the fragment preserved. Usually a driving device of the lower jaw is worked out for the treatment of the deviation that slides along the vestibular surfaces of the upper lateral teeth and restricts the articular disturbances. The authors task is to determine clinically the harmful forces of friction, proposing, at the same time, an original roller driver for their reduction. PMID- 2520870 TI - [Articular-telescopic bridge prosthesis on loose teeth]. AB - A clinical case is described for removable articulartelescopic bridge prosthesis of a defect, restricted distally by loose teeth (II degree of pathological looseness) and 3/4 atrophy of the alveolar bone. Compromised prosthesis has been realized by restriction and equalizing the mobility of the bridge-carriers by an articular and telescopic connection. Bulagarian articular elements have been used (TCE) for a soft contact and stabilization and sinking conical telescopes. PMID- 2520871 TI - [Lymphosarcoma--nodular form, localized in cervical region]. AB - The authors describe three patients with lymphosarcoma--nodular form for a 13 year period, involving the cervical lymph nodes. The rarity of the disease is emphasized as well as the difficulties in the differential diagnosis with the chronic sialadenitis and lymphopathies. The clinical interpretation of the disease is difficult because of the lack of specificity in the clinical course and paraclinical studies. The accurate diagnosis is only possible by a pathohistological study. The authors underine that the nodular form of lymphosarcoma should be given consideration in the differential diagnosis of the diseases of lymph apparatus in cervical region. PMID- 2520872 TI - [Necrotic fasciitis of odontogenic origin]. AB - A brief literature review is presented at the beginning of the paper, revealing that the necrotic fasciitis of odontogenic origin in the region of head and face is rarely observed with just a few communications in literature. Proceeding from the fact that term has not been introduced so far in the Bulgarian stomatological literature and that no communications are available about that disease, the author describes a 52-old female patient, affected by severe diabetes. Grave necrotic fasciitis in the infratemporal, temporal, parietal and occipital region advanced after the extraction of lower molars without any pretreatment on the background of the diabetes. The patient was healed by radical necrotomy of the affected fasciae and subcutaneous adipose tissue and via active antibiotic, general tonic and antidiabetic therapy. PMID- 2520873 TI - [Modelling of dental tissues for inlays with profile wax]. AB - A method has been developed for modelling, with profile wax, of absent dental tissues for inlays with the application of one-stage model casting. Close contact is guaranteed by the application of the method--point, free interdental space, exact construction of the "tail" of the inlay in the aproximal sides of the tooth and a possibility of great economization of metal while working out the inlays on highly destructed teeth. PMID- 2520874 TI - [Knife for groove cutting for escaping of the excessive correction silicon in two phase--two-layer impression with silicons]. PMID- 2520875 TI - [Caries treatment of milk and permanent teeth with the preparation EKO]. AB - Sixty one subjects (mainly children and students) with 153 obturations of milk and permanent teeth have been treated. The biological preparation EKO has been used instead of an inlay. The clinical control of the treated teeth has been performed after 3, 6 and 12 months. Positive results have been obtained in 95% of the cases, being a good reason to recommend that method as a method of choice in practice, in planned treatment of children and students in particular. PMID- 2520876 TI - [Stomatological implantology--indications, surgical methods and results from the application of various implants. Osteointegration]. PMID- 2520877 TI - [Some aspects of the problem of secondary dental caries]. PMID- 2520878 TI - [Peaks of the progress of creative stomatological thought in our country--Iv. Jovcev]. PMID- 2520879 TI - [Some clinical-laboratory indices in children with dental dysplasia of permanent teeth]. AB - The authors studied some serum indices of protein and electrolyte metabolism (total protein, protein fraction, serum calcium, ionized calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, osmolality, Ca/P ratio) in 26 clinically healthy children, aged fro 7 to 10, with clinically diagnosed dysplasia (hypoplasia or hypomineralization) of the permanent teeth. The mean values of the single biochemical parameters for both groups of children remain within referent limits of the respective indices for childhood, and their comparison established no statistically significant differences (p greater than 0.05). That provided grounds the authors to associate with the opinion that enamel defects, localized on a restricted part of the clinical crown of a symmetric group of teeth, could be "markers" for disorders in protein and mineral metabolism only during a certain time period coinciding with the active phases of odontogenesis. The absence of lasting changes in those two metabolisms determined the trends of the secondary prophylaxis--caries-prophylactic measures aiming at the avoidance of complications. PMID- 2520880 TI - [Incidence of recurrent aphthae among children with gastrointestinal diseases]. AB - Recurrent aphthae is rather often disease during infantjuvenile age. The aphthous alterations on mucosa of the oral cavity could be of various etiology. They could be symptoms of a general aphthosis (recurrent aphthous stomatitis, Behcet's disease, Turen disease), an individual manifestation of allergic states, manifestation of immuno-deficiency states as well as secondary stomatitis during some general diseases. The present study presents information of the incidence of recurrent aphthae during various gastrointestinal diseases which progress with often alterations of oral cavity mucosa. PMID- 2520881 TI - [Microbiological study on subgingival dental plaque in children with chronic catarrhal gingivitis after metronidazole effect]. AB - Clinical and bacteriological studies on sublingual dental plaque have been carried out on 60 juveniles (from 13 to 16 years of age) with chronic catarrhal gingivitis. The therapeutic schedule covers local metronidazol treatment, combined with oral hygiene (OH) and instructions and control for maintenance of OH at home. The results reveal that metronidazol had an excellent antianaerobic action, though the mechanical removal and optimal OH are particularly important for the good clinical results. PMID- 2520882 TI - [Quantitative determination of immunoglobulins in serum and saliva of patients with denture stomatitis]. AB - A quantitative study on the immunoglobulins G, M, and A in serum and saliva was performed as well as of secretory immunoglobulin A and of the secretory component in the saliva of 35 patients with prosthetic stomatitis and 30 healthy controls without prostheses. The method of radial immune-diffusion in agar according to Mancini, modification of G. Stankova et al. (1983) was used. The study established that there was no statistically significant difference (p greater than 0.05) in the values of immunoglobulins G, M and A in the sera of the subjects from both groups. Statistically significant increase (p less than 0.001) of the values of the immunoglobulin A, secretory immunoglobulin A and secretory component was established in the saliva of the patients with prosthetic stomatitis as compared with the same values in the control group, very likely due to the local reaction of saliva to the present prosthetic constructions. PMID- 2520883 TI - [Determination of the changes in the quantity, pH, protein and erythrocytes of gingival fluid in students with dental-jaw deformities and chronic catarrhal gingivitis after hygienic-therapeutic course with the toothpaste Propodent]. AB - The changes in the quantity, pH, protein and erythrocytes were studied in the gingival fluid of students with chronic catarrhal gingivitis and impaired oral hygiene due to dental-jaw deformities (DJD) after a 5-week hygienic-therapeutic course with the toothpaste "Propodent". The data about the indices studied in the experimental group--24 children and juveniles with DJD and chronica catarrhal gingivitis, aged from 8 to 16, were compared with the values of the indices studied in the control group of 10 children and juveniles without DJD and with clinically health periodontium of the same age. The comparison between the mean values of the quantity gingival fluid, pH, protein and erythrocytes of the experimental group, before and after the treatment, revealed: 78.6% reduction of the quantity of gingival fluid, 3.8% increase of pH, 93.74% reduction of protein and 95.98% reduction of erythrocytes. In this way, the indices studied in the experimental group after the treatment did not differ with statistical significance from those of the healthy children. The methods for determination of the quantity, pH, protein and erythrocytes, proposed by T. Dzemileva and P. Nenov, objectivized the clinically observed favourable changes in gingiva as a result from the hygienic-therapeutic course in the students with DJD and chronic catarrhal gingivitis. PMID- 2520884 TI - [Isolation of dental pulp from the deleterious effect of composition material by varnish films of dentin Adhesit and cyanacrylate B-100--experimental morphological studies]. AB - The protective properties of varnish films of dentin adhesit and cyanacrylate B 10 versus the toxic action of the compositional material have been studied in experiments on dogs. For that purpose, 45 cavities, class V with size 2:4; 1.5 mm were made. Dentin was isolated by a film from the experimental materials. The control group of teeth were made inlays from phosphate cement. The histopathological reaction of the dental pulp to the materials on trial was determined on day 3, and 1 and 3 months of the beginning of the experiment. No changes, characteristic for acute or chronic inflammatory reaction were established. The good, both immediate and late, results from the experiment are a good reason to admit that the adhesives obtained are suitable for varnish isolation of dental defects with superficial and moderate depth and could be applied with success in the clinical practice under the compositional material. They have no effect on the final aesthetic effect of the obturations. PMID- 2520885 TI - [Classification of malignant tumours of salivary glands by TNM system]. AB - After a brief historical review on TNM classification of malignant tumours, a clinical (pre-treatment) and pathological (post-surgical) classification of the tumours of the salivary glands, is presented that has been proposed by the International Union for cancer control. The stages for the determination of the differentiation of the primary tumour--G are described as well as the grouping of the patients in four stages on the base of the data from the TNM categories. It has been underlined that the use of the unified TNM classification of malignant tumours of salivary glands is of importance for the improvement of the quality of the therapeutic work, for the improvement of the national and international collaboration in that section of oncology. PMID- 2520886 TI - [Preparation of bearing teeth in the treatment with overdentures without retainers]. AB - On the base of the data available in literature about therapeutic results, discussion problems and concepts, the main modes for preparation of the bearing teeth under overdentures are discussed. Depending of the tendency of progress of the pathological processes and the initial state of the prosthetic field, an attempt has been made to specify the indications for covering with a cap of the bearing teeth or not covering them in the treatment of the defects of dentions with overdenture without retainers. PMID- 2520887 TI - [Application of implants for dental prostheses in indications for complete dentures. 2]. AB - An interesting clinical case of fixed dental prostheses is described, performed via Bulgarian bioceramic intraosseous implants and two retained teeth on the upper jaw, i.e. indications for complete prostheses in a 38-years old female patient. The case has been solved in a way so that when necessary (retention of implants) guarantees a removable prosthesis with Bulgarian traverse-joint elements. PMID- 2520888 TI - [Nozometric algorithms in stomatology]. AB - The intensive development of medical informatics and cybernetics led to the creating of an impressive mathematical apparatus, associated with algorithmization of medical activities and processes. In that aspect, special attention is paid to the nozometric algorithms, applied in the most responsible medical field--therapeutic-diagnostic process. The existing nozometric algorithms are reviewed, with consideration given to the specificity of the stomatological diagnostics. An algorithm set has been systematized that is recommended for use in the field of stomatology. PMID- 2520889 TI - [Improved scientific level of stomatologists at the faculty stomatological polyclinic for a better quality of therapeutic-prophylactic activity]. PMID- 2520890 TI - [A rare case of incomplete bilateral cleft of lip and palate in combination with malformative syndrome]. AB - A rare case is described being a combination between incomplete bilateral cleft of lip and palate with malformative syndrome. The cytogenetic study revealed no deviation in the chromosomes of the proband. The genealogical study (covering all alive relatives--30) reveals a heterogenic manifestation of the clefts in the relatives studied, without any malformative changes in them. The data obtained, in the case described, tend to a possible autosomal-dominant heredity. PMID- 2520891 TI - [Method of ultrasound treatment of purulent focus in abscesses and phlegmons in maxillofacial region]. AB - The authors propose a method for ultrasound treatment of a purulent focus in abscesses and phlegmons in the maxillofacial region. They use the properties of the ultrasound for that purpose, namely: stimulation of both local and general reactivity of organism, alteration of the immunologic properties of microbes and cells at the granulation swelling, destruction of microorganisms. After a broad excision of the purulent focus, a fixed tube drainage is inserted, through which the focal tissues are perfused by antiseptic and proteolytic solutions. At the same time the skin surface over the inflammatory region is treated with ultrasound. The application of that method results in reduction of the size of the inflammatory infiltration, reduction of purulence time and its definite arrest. The favourable therapeutic effect of the method is a good reason to be recommended for the surgical practice. PMID- 2520892 TI - [Dental caries with chronic renal insufficiency]. AB - Chronic renal insufficiency (CRI) is an irreversible lesion of the renal function with advancing of renal rickets, dyselectrolythemia, azotemic osteodystrophia in the bones. On the background of all those severe changes in organism, low indices of dental caries epidemicty are cited in literature. A total of 30 children with CRI were examined: Group 1--21 children with disease onset immediately after birth and duration from 5 to 15 years and group 2--9 children with disease onset after the age of 7 and duration from 2 to 5 years. The intensity of caries and epidemicty were compared according to milk and permanent teeth with a group of healthy children (900). A four-time higher urea level was established in group 1, reduced calcium and increased phosphorus. The children with CRI were less affected by dental caries as compared with the healthy ones, being better manifested in case of an earlier onset and longer duration of the disease. The problem of the future is the explanation of the phenomenon observed and the results--used in prophylasxis. PMID- 2520893 TI - [A device for thermo-compressive formation of plastic foil for stomatological purposes]. AB - A device is proposed, by which bigger plastic details for stomatological purposes can be formed via high air pressure. For that purpose, a gas flow is led away to a special bell through an armoured rubber hose from the compressive installation of the somatological unit. The plastic foil is fixed by a clip-holder, adjusted also for work with basis-plaques. After the formation of the foil-matrix and its cooling, the air pressure is stopped. The device is prompted by the desire to facilitate the production of details necessary for the clinic, for the dental mechanic laboratory and for the stomatological research work. The device has been put into practice in the Stomatological Faculty, HMI, Plovdiv. PMID- 2520894 TI - [Immediate restoration of post-resection defects of the lower jaw with explants endoprostheses]. PMID- 2520895 TI - [Osteoporosis and nutrition in adult stomatological patients]. PMID- 2520896 TI - [On the problem of diagnostics and treatment of herpetic infection in the oral cavity]. AB - A clinical case of herpetic manifestation in the mouth is described as a grave gingivostomatitis in a child aged 12. Chronology and symptomatics of the disease are analyzed in details as well as the difficulties both in diagnostics and treatment. Some important moments are discussed that usually aggravate the clinical picture and the treatment of similar conditions--including an antibiotic from penivillin group in the treatment, the presence of cutting teeth with inflammatory alterations around them, extraction. All possible diseases in the oral cavity are analyzed that could give a similar symptomatics as well as the tactics of the stomatologist until making the final diagnosis. The diagnosis was ex juvantibus elucidated Symptomatic treatment was carried out and paraclinical examinations performed enabling the authors to make the diagnosis recurrent herpetic infection with not typical course upon the oral mucosa induced by the virus of herpes simplex, type I. PMID- 2520897 TI - [Some epidemiological and clinical-etiological studies on children with lingua nigra villosa]. AB - Some epidemiological and clinical-etiological studies are reported about the incidence of lingua nigra villosa (black hairy tongue) among 3334 children aged from 2 months to 14. It has been very convincingly established that the disease occurred in children administered antibiotics for the treatment of a primary disease. Some new data are presented about the clinical pathology of glossitis on the base of clinical, paraclinical, microbiological and virological studies and reliable possibilities of affecting by nistatin-prednisolone emulsion (NAP). PMID- 2520899 TI - [Chemical control of dental plaque via rinsing solution "Antiplaque C". 2. Cytological and bacterioscopic studies]. AB - Two groups of probands have been studied: experimental and control. After the clinically performed oral hygiene all probands stopped the brushing of the teeth for a 7-day period. The oral cavity was twice daily rinsed with 10 ml solution for 30 s--with "Antiplaque C" for the experimental and with placebo--for the control. All probands were taken bilateral probe-impressions according to Dzemileva, Stojanova and Popov in the area of 31 tooth, stained by crystal-violet and observed under light microscope and immersion. The cytological finding in the experimental group did not reveal an inflammatory process in the gingival sulcus whereas increased gingival exudate was established in the placebo group as well as intensified leukocyte migration and single erythrocytes (subclinical phase of inflammation). The bacterioscopic finding in the group, systematically used "Antiplaque C", was reduced to poor dental plaque, preserved "fresh" till the end of the 7-day period being predominantly coccoid-rod-like. In the placebo group the dental plaque "ages"--from coccoid-rod-like it turns into mainly fibril with multiple vibrios and spirillae. The cytological and bacterioscopic data objectivize the inhibitory effect of "Antiplaque C". PMID- 2520898 TI - [Experimental-morphological studies on isolation properties of cyanacrylate composite inlays]. AB - The biological tolerance and protective properties of inlays from cyanacrylate composites versus the toxic effect of the composition material have been studied in experiments on dogs. Three polymer compositions were tested in comparison with the widely used phosphate cement. For the purpose of the study, 60 cavities, class V, size 2:4:2.5 mm were treated. Dentin was covered with inlays from experimented materials and the cavities were obturated by evicrol. The histopathological reaction of the dental pulp to the tested materials was read on day 3, 1 and 3 months. They were established to have very good working properties and colour possibilities. No changes in the pulp characteristic for acute or chronic inflammatory reaction were established by the electron microscopic studies. The good immediate and remote results from the experiments carried out are good grounds to admit that the cyanacrylate composites studied are very adequate for application in dental defects with a medium depth and could successfully be applied in the clinical practice. Their suitable colour permits to be used under a thin layer of composition material, not affecting the final aesthetic effect of the obturations. PMID- 2520900 TI - [In vitro studies on two types of alloys with respect to their effect on the predisposition to secondary caries after obturations]. AB - The authors studied two types of powdered alloy for amalgam without phase "Gamma 2"--"Stom-Am non gamma-2", production of TIC "Pharmachim", Bulgaria. They made obturations from the amalgams on trial to 45 healthy, extracted according to orthodontic indications, human teeth, preserved for 12 weeks in 10% gelatin solution with pH = 4.5 with lactic acid added to the solution in accordance to the international standard for studies on caries and periodontal diseases. On the base of the results from the studies the following conclusions could be drawn: 1. The transversal width of the lesions on the walls in case of amalgam obturations from the two alloys studied is considerably smaller versus that of obturations from the standard (ordinary) alloy for amalgam. 2. The difference in the effect of the two Bulgarian types of alloy tested is not significant, the number of the lesions in case of obturations with them being smaller. 3. The preamalgamation improves definitely only the possibility of shifting of the chips. 4. The amalgam obturations from the alloys without phase "gamma-2" tested, show a likely lower disposition to secondary caries than the obturations from the ordinary alloy for the amalgam. PMID- 2520901 TI - [Early surgical intervention in the complex treatment of odontogenic osteomyelitis of the lower jaw]. AB - The incision of the soft tissues is an approbated method for the surgical treatment of the acute odontogenic osteomyelitis of the lower jaw and for the chronic--the sequestrectomy after the complete detachment of the sequestra. In the paper the authors share their experience in the surgical treatment of acute osteomyelitis and chronic odontogenic osteomyelitis as early as the phase of demarcation of the sequestra, with special attention paid to the extraoral drainage and local effect on the operated bone. In all other cases the operation wound in the oral cavity is sutured without drainage for healing by first intention. To some of the patients with developed acute osteomyelitis of the lower jaw, the authors applied the rarely practiced method of trephination of the bone, aiming at the reduction of the intraosseous pressure induced by the inflammatory process. Thirty nine patients have been treated according to the methods described and the results so far are a good evidence for their recommendation for the practice. PMID- 2520902 TI - [Terminological problems of orthopedic stomatology]. AB - The author discusses the term orthopedic stomatology used only in the Soviet and Bulgarian literature implying prosthetic treatment in the maxillofacial region and oral cavity, proposing its substitution for a more appropriate and officially accepted, on a world-wide scale, named prosthetic stomatology. In this way, the aim is the elimination of the incorrect terms out of the scientific stomatological language in addition to the achievement of terminological standardization with the other countries throughout the world. PMID- 2520903 TI - [Parental information about the basic causes for dental-jaw deformities]. AB - A total of 610 parents of children from pediatric institutions have been questioned in connection with their information about some of the basic causes of dental-jaw deformities and about their information sources. The results obtained reveal that the parents carefully observe in their children and detect almost always their harmful habits as sucking and oral breathing. What they lack is proper information and motivation to timely cope with those causes as well as to ask for the aid of the stomatologist when necessary. According to the parents, the most important is the role of the stomatologist and the mass media for their information. It is necessary, however, a more active use of those means as well as of the other health and educational workers associated with the rearing and education of the children so as to achieve a more effective health educational activity. PMID- 2520905 TI - [Study on the interrelation between dysplasias of permanent teeth and dental-jaw deformities. 1. Clinical-statistical study on the incidence and type of dental jaw deformities among students with dysplasia of the permanent teeth]. AB - A total of 125 students, aged from 6 to 18, with dysplasia of the permanent teeth were examined by a qualified pediatric stomatologist and orthodontist. Dental-jaw deformities (DJD) were established in 74.40% of all examined students. Most frequent proved to be the combination of DJD with hypomineralization in mixed dentition (34.41%) and with hypoplasia in permanent dentition--20.45% and hypomineralization--10.75%. The analysis with a view to the type of DJD revealed that the combination between dysplasias of the permanent teeth and deformities in the proportion of the jaws was most frequent (56.84%). The highest relative share of deep bite was established (27.89%) with no tendency to selfregulation in the permanent dentition. The authors underlined the necessity of follow-up care of the students with dysplasia in combination with DJD in connection with the joint therapeutic and orthodontic treatment. PMID- 2520904 TI - [Organization model for mass orthodontic prophylaxis in integrated pediatric institutions]. AB - A model is proposed for the organization of mass orthodontic prophylaxis in the integrated pediatric institutions (IPI), covering the following more important activities: I. Follow-up care of the organized pediatric groups in the creches and nurseries with a view to orthodontic prophylaxis. II. Analysis of the data from the prophylactic examinations, written down in special cards, worked out by the authors. According to the needs of the children they are distributed in four follow-up groups. III. Mass orthodontic prophylaxis. The more important measures of primary and secondary mass orthodontic prophylaxis are established and grouped respectively. IV. Visual-educational materials. V. Colour film of the model. The proposed model is admitted to illustrate and convincingly present the possibilities of the mass prophylaxis in IPI and, in parallel, it could serve as a programme for mass orthodontic prophylaxis. PMID- 2520906 TI - [On some errors of diagnosed tumors in the oral cavity as inflammatory processes]. AB - Over 40 patients, suffered from tumours in the oral cavity and maxillofacial region but were diagnosed and treated as patients with inflammatory process by polyvalent stomatologists within a 9-year period (1978-1987). After the adequate studies and treatment, it has been established that were tumour diseases in the oral cavity with a clinical picture of inflammatory processes. The necessity of a good knowledge about the modern methods of diagnostics, classification and prophylaxis of those diseases has been stressed upon on base of the studies carried out and unreserved consent to the common language in this respect in all therapeutic-prophylactic units. PMID- 2520907 TI - Visual search along the colour dimension. AB - Subjects searched for a chromatic target among coloured background items. With low target-background chromatic similarity, response latencies remained uniformly short whether the target was present or not and whether the items were chromatically homogeneous or not. Latencies increased with increases in target background similarity and were longest with heterogeneous backgrounds, with which the effects of trial also became manifest. We employed Treisman's model of visual search to account for these findings. In particular, we suggest that similarity increases forced a shift from a preattentive to an attentive search, the latter being importantly shaped by the background's level of chromatic variance. PMID- 2520910 TI - Teaching pharmacists about family planning. PMID- 2520911 TI - Oxygenator exhaust capnometry. PMID- 2520913 TI - Fentanyl intermittent bolus technique for anesthesia in infants and children undergoing cardiac surgery. AB - The use of fentanyl by an incremental intravenous (IV) bolus technique was evaluated in eight pediatric patients (ages 4 months to 5 years, ASA III-IV) undergoing corrective surgery for congenital heart defects. Anesthesia was induced with 5 to 10 micrograms/kg of fentanyl. Additional boluses of comparable size were given intermittently thereafter, in order that a total dose of 100 micrograms/kg was achieved just before instituting cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Heart rate, systolic blood pressure, various measures of anesthetic depth, and plasma fentanyl levels measured by radioimmunoassay were compared at various points during anesthesia, surgery, and recovery. Decreases in heart rate were observed at the time of sternal incision and at 30 minutes thereafter, when doses of fentanyl were near-maximal. No changes from baseline in systolic blood pressure or in anesthetic depth occurred at any of the intervals studied. The plasma concentration of fentanyl was 30 +/- 8 ng/mL just after completion of the fentanyl administration, immediately before CPB. With onset of CPB, the fentanyl level fell to 13 +/- 9 ng/mL, a statistically significant difference from the baseline value. No further change occurred over the additional 231 +/- 74 minutes in the operating room. The fentanyl concentration was 10 +/- 4 ng/mL upon entry into the recovery room. It is concluded that administration of fentanyl in small, intermittent IV boluses, with dosing completed before the onset of CPB, produces satisfactory plasma levels, anesthesia, and hemodynamic stability in children undergoing corrective surgery for congenital cardiac defects. PMID- 2520912 TI - Variations in hemodynamic and stress hormonal responses in open heart surgery with buprenorphine/diazepam anesthesia. AB - The use of buprenorphine-diazepam-N2O (60%)-O2 anesthesia in open heart surgery was investigated. The authors examined the hemodynamic changes produced and the response of stress hormones. Twenty adult patients with atrial septal defects undergoing surgical correction were studied in two groups of 10, receiving either 6 micrograms/kg of buprenorphine (B6) or 12 micrograms/kg of buprenorphine (B12) for the induction of anesthesia. Both groups received a subsequent dose of 6 micrograms/kg of buprenorphine with the commencement of extracorporeal circulation (ECC). With surgery, mean arterial pressure showed a transient increase in both groups and thereafter was stable. Heart rate in the B6 group was increased from the onset of surgery to the day after, while the B12 group showed no significant change. Filling pressures showed no change in either group. Plasma catecholamine concentrations in the B6 group, in contrast to the B12 group, increased significantly from midoperation to after completion of the operation (ECC 10 minutes, B6 group v B12 group: plasma norepinephrine 616 +/- 231 v 195 +/ 38 pg/mL, plasma epinephrine 1385 +/- 392 v 572 +/- 132 pg/mL, P less than 0.05). Plasma ADH levels in both groups rose with the commencement of surgery, reaching a peak at ECC 10 minutes (B6 group 88.1 +/- 8.4 v B12 group 124.4 +/- 27.2 pg/mL). However, in contrast to plasma catecholamines, the antidiuretic hormone (ADH) levels in the B12 group remained higher until the first postoperative day. Therefore, patients who received the larger dose of buprenorphine had better control of hemodynamics and catecholamines, but a greater elevation of plasma ADH levels. PMID- 2520914 TI - Baroreceptor control after cervical epidural anesthesia in patients undergoing carotid artery surgery. AB - Baroreceptor (BR) reactivity was studied in 16 patients scheduled for carotid artery surgery performed under cervical epidural anesthesia with 0.375% bupivacaine (15 mL). In the first seven patients, BR reactivity was assessed by measurement of the slopes of the linear relationship between systolic arterial pressure (SAP) and the RR interval on the electrocardiogram. Alterations of blood pressure (BP) were produced using sequential intravenous (IV) doses of nitroglycerin (NTG; 100 to 200 micrograms) or phenylephrine (PHE; 100 to 200 micrograms), before and 30 minutes after epidural anesthesia. The changes in SAP and heart rate (HR) determined during the four phases of a Valsalva maneuver were evaluated in a second set of measurements before and after cervical epidural blockade. In nine additional patients, a third set of measurements studying BR reactivity after carotid clamping and unclamping was performed in order to assess the effect of carotid handling on BP control. Cervical epidural anesthesia induced moderate decreases in BP (SAP, 150 +/- 18 mmHg before cervical block, 143 +/- 27 mmHg after cervical block, P less than 0.05) and HR (RR, 812 +/- 120 ms before cervical block, 938 +/- 130 ms after cervical block, P less than 0.05). Cervical epidural anesthesia depressed BR reactivity during deactivation as assessed by the decrease in the BR slope after PHE injection (6.6 +/- 4.4 ms/mmHg before cervical block v 2.5 +/- 1.8 ms/mmHg after cervical block, P less than 0.01) and activation as assessed by the changes in SAP and HR during phases II and IV of the Valsalva maneuver.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2520915 TI - Hemodynamic and hormonal changes in patients pretreated with captopril for surgery of the abdominal aorta. AB - Cardiovascular and hormonal responses to aortic cross-clamping (ACC) and declamping (ADC) were studied in 20 patients undergoing reconstructive aortic surgery anesthetized with fentanyl and droperidol. Ten of the patients served as a control group, and 10 patients were treated with oral captopril (25 mg the day before operation and 25 mg one hour before anesthesia) to prevent intraoperative and postoperative hypertension. After the induction of anesthesia in the captopril group, hypotension was seen in four patients and bradycardia in three patients. In both groups, the most important changes in hemodynamics after the ACC were an increase in systemic vascular resistance and decreases in cardiac and stroke index. After the ADC, the cardiac index (CI) improved nearly to the level before the ACC. The urine output during anesthesia was 46 +/- 5 mL/h in the control group and 73 +/- 11 mL/h (P less than 0.05) in the captopril group. Postoperatively, patients in both groups were hypertensive and tachycardic. In the control group, plasma renin activity rose significantly during the ACC, indicating activation of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). In both groups, significant increases in plasma vasopressin (PAVP), epinephrine, and norepinephrine were also observed before the ACC and during the postoperative period. The results suggest that oral captopril increases the risk of hypotension and bradycardia after induction of anesthesia, and does not prevent postoperative hypertension. PMID- 2520916 TI - Comparison of the effects of amrinone and dobutamine on hemodynamics and myocardial oxygen balance in dogs with experimental left ventricular failure. AB - The purpose of the present study was to induce left ventricular failure in anesthetized dogs by repeated ventricular fibrillation and then to determine if amrinone is effective in circulatory support by comparing the effects of amrinone and dobutamine. After the repetitive ventricular fibrillation, mean arterial pressure and stroke volume index decreased, pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) increased, and acute left ventricular failure occurred. Thereafter, dogs were divided into the following four groups. In Group C (n = 6), normal saline was administered; in Group D (n = 6), dobutamine was administered at 7 micrograms/kg/min; and in Groups A40 (n = 6) and A80 (n = 7), amrinone was administered at 40 micrograms/kg/min and 80 micrograms/kg/min, respectively. Stroke volume index increased by 78% in Group D and 46% in both Groups A40 and A80. Pulmonary capillary wedge pressure decreased by 44% in Group A40 and 38% in Group A80, but remained unchanged in Group D. Similarly, total peripheral resistance decreased by 32% in Group A40, 29% in Group A80, but remained unchanged in Group D. These results suggest that amrinone increased cardiac output and decreased both preload and afterload. In the coronary circulation, both drugs caused direct coronary vasodilation since they increased myocardial oxygen supply in excess of the increase in myocardial oxygen demand. Neither drug produced signs of myocardial ischemia, as indicated by myocardial lactate metabolism. Amrinone should be a useful drug after open heart surgery, especially in cases where significant adverse effects of catecholamines occur or where a low output state with increased preload and afterload exists. PMID- 2520917 TI - Early extubation after coronary artery surgery in efficiently rewarmed patients: a postoperative comparison of opioid anesthesia versus inhalational anesthesia and thoracic epidural analgesia. AB - Twenty-eight patients were studied after uncomplicated aortocoronary bypass surgery with hypothermic cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). In all patients residual hypothermia was effectively treated by the use of extended rewarming during CPB and postoperatively by an external heat source. This treatment almost eliminated postoperative shivering, and it resulted in the lowering of oxygen uptake, carbon dioxide production, and required ventilatory volumes to stable levels where spontaneous breathing could be used safely. The patients were divided into two groups. In group I (n = 12), intraoperative anesthesia was based on an intravenous (IV) opioid (phenoperidine), which caused persistent respiratory depression and made mechanical ventilation necessary for a mean postoperative time period of 10.7 +/- 3.8 hours even with the rewarming. In group II (n = 16), thoracic epidural analgesia and intraoperative general anesthesia with enflurane were used. In this group, postoperative metabolic and ventilatory requirements were stable and low, finger skin temperature was normalized earlier, systemic vascular resistance was lower, and stroke index was higher. Emergence from anesthesia was uneventful and was achieved early postoperatively in Group II. The patients had good pain relief and were mentally alert. Adequate spontaneous breathing was resumed quickly and endotracheal extubation was performed within the first two postoperative hours (1.6 +/- 0.5 hours). No complications or increased morbidity occurred, and no patient needed to be reintubated in Group II. PMID- 2520918 TI - Factors affecting postoperative ventilatory support in patients with cardiac cachexia. AB - Factors affecting early v late weaning from ventilatory support after cardiac surgery were retrospectively compared in 15 patients with cardiac cachexia. These patients were divided into two groups based on the duration of postoperative ventilatory support, group I (n = 7) less than two days (22 +/- 8 hours) and group II (n = 8) over three days (140 +/- 125 hours). Findings in 14 randomly selected patients without cardiac cachexia who underwent cardiac valve replacement were also examined. Comparisons were made between the groups in regards to the following parameters: (1) preoperatively: anthropometric, biochemical, and immunologic parameters of nutritional status, hepatic function, cardiothoracic ratio (CTR) on chest x-ray, and data from cardiac catheterization; (2) intraoperatively and postoperatively: anesthetic drugs, duration of surgery, cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), aortic cross-clamp, and postoperative use of inotropes. The anthropometric measurements, cell-mediated immunity, and hepatic function were significantly decreased in all patients with cachexia, but with no significant differences between the groups. Serum transferrin levels, which increased in patients with cachexia, showed no significant difference between the groups. The levels of serum albumin were significantly lower in cachectic patients than in patients without cachexia; they were significantly higher in group II than in group I. The durations of surgery and CPB were significantly longer in group II, but there was no significant difference in the duration of aortic clamping between the groups. The postoperative use of inotropes was higher in group II. These results indicate that group II patients were nutritionally as well sustained as group I. However, they had less satisfactory cardiac function, and therefore required a longer duration of postoperative ventilatory support. PMID- 2520919 TI - Clinical experience with a new right-sided endobronchial tube in left main bronchus surgery. AB - Clinical experience during one-lung anesthesia using a new right-sided endobronchial tube (Portex Ltd, Hythe, Kent, UK) is reported in 148 patients with cancer of the left lung. The method allowed a reliable airtight separation of the lungs as well as right upper lobe ventilation in all cases. The new tube also allowed proper upper lobe ventilation in cases with anatomical variations of the length of the right main bronchus. The intubation technique was greatly simplified when compared with commercially available double-lumen tubes. Airway pressures and arterial blood gases were similar to those obtained with standard double-lumen tubes during one-lung ventilation. There were no complications due to the new tube system. PMID- 2520921 TI - Right ventricular failure after heart transplantation caused by a kink in the pulmonary artery anastomosis. PMID- 2520920 TI - Anesthetic management of neonatal cardiac transplantation. AB - Anesthetic management of thirteen neonatal heart transplant patients is reviewed. Donor management, preoperative, operative and early postoperative management is discussed. Ten of 13 patients in this series survived the operation and appear to be developing normally. PMID- 2520924 TI - Unsuccessful unilateral bronchopulmonary lavage for a patient with severe cystic fibrosis. PMID- 2520922 TI - Abdominal aortic aneurysm repair and coronary artery grafting as a combined procedure on cardiopulmonary bypass. PMID- 2520923 TI - The management of two pediatric patients with sickle cell trait and sickle cell disease during cardiopulmonary bypass. PMID- 2520925 TI - Fiberoptic bronchoscopic positioning of double-lumen tubes. AB - This article has attempted to familiarize the anesthesiologist with the bronchoscopic appearance of normally and abnormally positioned double-lumen endobronchial tubes. Double-lumen tubes are being used in an increasing proportion of thoracic surgical cases in major centers. Double-lumen tubes are also being used more frequently in intensive care units for independent lung ventilation, bronchopleural fistula, massive hemoptysis, and other asymmetrical pulmonary disorders. Obstruction of the left or right upper lobe bronchus is the most common significant malposition with these tubes. If it occurs after the start of surgery it can be extremely difficult to diagnose clinically and can lead to dangerous levels of hypoxemia during one-lung ventilation. The risk/benefit ratio of fiberoptic bronchoscopy before the initiation of one-lung ventilation is extremely small. Due to variations in bronchial anatomy and intrathoracic pathology there will always be a certain percentage of cases in which the current designs of double-lumen tubes cannot be adequately positioned. The anesthesiologist's index of suspicion in these cases may be raised by examining the preoperative chest x-ray. Fiberoptic bronchoscopy is the most efficient and reliable method to position a double-lumen tube when the anatomy is distorted. When used as described, the FOB is a monitor. Like all new monitors it will take some time before there is a general consensus whether it is to be used routinely or only for certain indications. Whatever the final consensus on the indications for the FOB in double-lumen tube positioning, it is certain that all anesthesiologists involved in managing thoracic cases should be familiar with this technique. PMID- 2520926 TI - Pro: epidural anesthesia is a valuable adjunct to general anesthesia for abdominal vascular surgery. PMID- 2520927 TI - Con: epidural anesthesia is not a valuable adjunct to general anesthesia for abdominal vascular surgery. PMID- 2520928 TI - pH-stat, alpha-stat versus temperature correction. PMID- 2520929 TI - Hypokalemia and dysrhythmias. PMID- 2520930 TI - Glucose metabolism and insulin activity during cardiac surgery. AB - Disorders of glucose metabolism were investigated in 177 patients undergoing cardiac surgery. In group I patients, the cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) priming fluid contained glucose. Patients in group II received neither glucose nor insulin during the operation. Group III received insulin-glucose therapy (IGT) during the operation (insulin, 1 U/kg/h, glucose, 0.5 g/kg/h). At the onset of CPB in group I, hyperglycemia was produced by the glucose load and by a relative reduction in insulin secretion. In group II, the start of the operation was accompanied by a rise in the titer of insulin antibodies. IGT resulted in normalization of the blood glucose level after CPB and stability of the insulin antibody titer during the investigation. The indices of myocardial contractility in group III were better than those of the "glucose-free" group II before and after CPB. In group II, indices of beta-cell function were moderately depressed 16 to 18 hours after the operation. Insulin and c-peptide level measurements demonstrated insulin production in group III on the first postoperative day. The results demonstrate that IGT has some potential benefit for glucose metabolism and myocardial function during cardiac surgery. PMID- 2520931 TI - Effect of methylprednisolone on endotoxemia and complement activation during cardiac surgery. AB - The influence of high doses of methylprednisolone on complement activation and endotoxin concentration was investigated in two groups of eight patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting. Group 1 received methylprednisolone, 30 mg/kg, at the induction of anesthesia; group 2 served as the control group. The endotoxin concentrations increased significantly in both groups at the start of cardiopulmonary bypass. During cardiopulmonary bypass, the endotoxin concentrations were significantly higher in the steroid group compared with the control group (p less than 0.01). After completion of surgery, the endotoxin concentrations declined to almost zero within seven days in both groups. Complement activation was significantly reduced in the steroid-treated group during cardiopulmonary bypass compared with the control group (P less than 0.01). The clinical outcome after the first postoperative week was the same in the two groups. It appears that high-dose steroids can reduce complement activation during cardiopulmonary bypass, although the clearance of endotoxins may also be reduced. PMID- 2520932 TI - Thyroid function during isoflurane anesthesia and valvular heart surgery. AB - Proper thyroid function is essential for maintaining cardiovascular integrity during normal and stressful situations. In this study, the effects of isoflurane O2 anesthesia and surgical stress on serum TSH, T4, free T4, T3, rT3, and cortisol were investigated in nine patients before, during, and after valve surgery. Compared with preoperative control values, serum TSH decreased in the postoperative period. Both T4 and free T4 had similar decreases after cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and remained depressed postoperatively. Both T3 and rT3 decreased at the start of cardiopulmonary bypass; T3 remained low in the postoperative period, while rT3 increased. Cortisol decreased during anesthesia and surgery in the prebypass period, but increased during cardiopulmonary bypass and in the postoperative period. The results suggest that isoflurane-O2 anesthesia during valve surgery produces a rapid decrease in T3, resulting in the low T3 syndrome postoperatively. Isoflurane, in the dose studied, similar to fentanyl, can suppress the cortisol response to anesthesia and surgery in the prebypass period, but not during and after CPB. PMID- 2520933 TI - Continuous oxygen insufflation in addition to IPPV causes air trapping in a mechanical lung model. AB - It has previously been reported that continuous insufflation of either supracarinal or subcarinal oxygen in addition to intermittent positive-pressure ventilation (IPPV) in patients under general anesthesia, and in critically ill patients in the intensive care unit, causes increased proximal airway pressure, decreased systemic blood pressure, and decreased cardiac output. The investigators hypothesized that these deleterious hemodynamic effects were due to intrapulmonary air trapping, resulting in an increased distal intrapulmonary pressure and volume. The purpose of this study was to test this hypothesis in an appropriate mechanical lung model. The study determined end-inspiratory and end expiratory lung pressures and volumes during eight experimental sequences: (1) IPPV alone; (2) insufflation of oxygen alone at 2.5, 5.0, and 10.0 L/min (O2-2.5, 5.0, 10.0); (3, 4, and 5) IPPV plus insufflation of oxygen (IPPV + O2-0.0, 2.5, 5.0, 10.0) through a supracarinal catheter (sequence 3), subcarinal catheters (sequence 4), and through a CO2 sampling port of an endotrachael tube (sequence 5); (6 and 7) IPPV + O2-5.0 with increased expiratory time caused by an increased inspiratory flow rate (sequence 6) and a decreased respiratory rate (sequence 7); (8) IPPV + O2-5.0 with increased airway diameter. Experimental sequences 1 and 2 resulted in no increases or minimal ones in lung pressure and volume, respectively. With each insufflation catheter system (sequences 3, 4, and 5), each incremental increase in insufflation flow rate resulted in significant increases in lung pressure and volume. Increasing expiratory times (sequences 6 and 7 compared with 3, 4, and 5) decreased lung pressure and volume. Increasing the airway diameter (sequence 8) had only slight effect on lung pressure and volume.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2520934 TI - The influence of fresh gas flow and inspiratory/expiratory ratio on tidal volume and arterial CO2 tension in mechanically ventilated surgical patients. AB - The relative importance of fresh gas flow and inspiratory/expiratory ratio in determining delivered tidal volume and PaCO2 was studied in anesthetized adult patients ventilated with a fixed ventilator bellows volume. The fresh gas flows studied were 2, 6, and 10 L/min, and inspiratory/expiratory ratio was either 1:2 or 1:4.5. Bellows volume and respiratory rate were held constant throughout the study. At the lowest fresh gas flow and smallest inspiratory/expiratory ratio, PaCO2 was 43 +/- 2 mm Hg. The PaCO2 decreased progressively and significantly with each increase in fresh gas flow during ventilation with either inspiratory/expiratory ratio setting. PaCO2 averaged 30 +/- 3 during ventilation with the highest fresh gas flow and largest inspiratory/expiratory ratio. As fresh gas flow increased, PaCO2 and tidal volume changed to a significantly greater degree in response to changes in inspiratory/expiratory ratio. These data demonstrate that altering either fresh gas flow or inspiratory/expiratory ratio can produce clinically significant perturbations in PaCO2 and tidal volume during anesthesia. These perturbations occur even if bellows volume is held constant. Furthermore, changes in inspiratory/expiratory ratio will affect these parameters to a greater degree as fresh gas flow is increased. PMID- 2520935 TI - The mechanism of nitrous oxide-induced changes in pulmonary vascular resistance in a dog model of left atrial outflow obstruction. AB - Nitrous oxide has been reported to increase pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) in patients with pulmonary hypertension secondary to mitral stenosis. Additional data suggest this response involves sympathetic stimulation because the increase in PVR can be prevented by alpha-adrenergic and ganglionic blockade. Whether or not active pulmonary vasoconstriction occurs remains unclear. This study was designed to more fully characterize the influence of N2O on pulmonary hemodynamics during left atrial outflow obstruction (LAO). Responses in an in situ blood-perfused lung lobe were compared with those in the remaining intact lung of six dogs anesthetized with pentobarbital, 30 mg/kg, and morphine, 1.5 mg/kg, and prepared for measurement of peak left ventricular (LV) pressure, LV end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP), LV dP/dt, systemic arterial and pulmonary arterial (PA) pressures, and cardiac output (CO). The pulmonary artery branch supplying the left middle lung lobe was cannulated and perfused at a constant rate with warmed blood. LAO was produced by filling the balloon of a Foley catheter positioned in the left atrium (LA) with enough saline to increase PA pressure by 50%; the balloon was subsequently left filled for the entire protocol. Measurements were first obtained during ventilation with 67% N2, and 33% O2. The inspired gas was then changed to 67% N2O and 33% O2 for 10 minutes, and then returned to the N2/O2 mixture. Once baselines had been reestablished (about 10 minutes), phentolamine, 0.75 mg/kg, was administered, and the response to 10 minutes of N2O again observed. N2O did not change vascular resistance in the isolated lobe, but increased intact-lung PVR.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2520936 TI - Bilateral intrapleural regional analgesia for postoperative pain control: a dose finding study. AB - Postoperative pain management for major abdominal or thoracoabdominal procedures requires bilateral multisegmental intercostal nerve blocks or epidural analgesia. This study was undertaken to examine the possible role of bilateral intrapleural regional analgesia (BIRA) and to select the proper dose for this new technique. Bilateral intrapleural catheters were inserted after surgery, using a Mancao dual cannula system. Bupivacaine with epinephrine 1/200,000 (BE) was administered in each side as 20 mL of 0.5% in three patients. When this dose was found to be ineffective, 30 mL of 0.75% BE was administered in five patients; however, two patients complained of tinnitus and visual disturbances. Subsequently, 20 mL of 0.75% BE was used in five patients and was found to be satisfactory. Thirteen additional patients received the latter dose. Arterial blood levels of bupivacaine were determined at 15, 30, 60, and 120 minutes. The group of 18 patients (group I) who received 20 mL of 0.75% BE bilaterally were compared with a second group (group II) of 16 patients undergoing similar surgery who received only parenteral narcotics for pain management. BIRA was considered effective when patients denied pain or discomfort and when narcotics were not required in the postanesthesia recovery unit. Patients in groups I and II received narcotic medication whenever they felt pain or discomfort. The duration of BIRA was considered to be from the injection of the drug until the time a narcotic was administered to the patient. Demographic variables, changes in BP and heart rate after surgery, frequency of narcotic administration during the first four postoperative days, and postoperative hospital stay were compared in groups I and II.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2520937 TI - Anesthetic management for surgical removal of renal carcinoma with caval or atrial tumor thrombus using deep hypothermic circulatory arrest. AB - Twenty cases of renal carcinoma with tumor thrombus extending into the vena cava or atrium, in which cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA) were used, are reviewed. Arterial, central venous (n = 9), or pulmonary artery catheters (n = 11), ECG, and rectal or bladder and pharyngeal temperatures were used for monitoring. The anesthetic was a high-dose narcotic supplemented with a nondepolarizing relaxant and a volatile agent. The surgery consisted of mobilization of the kidney followed by CPB via atrial and aortic cannulae, cooling via CPB, exsanguination, and removal of thrombus during DHCA. Duration of cooling was 21 +/- 7 minutes to a pharyngeal temperature of 15.8 degrees +/- 2.6 degrees C with alpha-stat pH management; DHCA lasted 26 +/- 10 minutes, and rewarming was continued to a mean pelvic temperature of 36.2 degrees C. Duration of surgery was 8.1 +/- 1.6 hours. The mean initial hematocrit was 33.5%, mean lowest Hct during CPB was 16.9%, and mean Hct at the end of surgery was 30%. Intraoperatively, 9.0 +/- 6.4 units of blood were used, and most patients received component therapy. Average crystalloid use was 7 L, and albumin or hetastarch (1.3 +/- 0.9 L) was used in 13 patients. One patient with severe cardiac disease could not be weaned from CPB. In the 19 operative survivors, there were no neurological deficits. There was one late death from pulmonary complications. The use of thiopental (n = 13), dexamethasone (n = 11), or mannitol (n = 19) was not clearly related to outcome. Hypothermia, hemodilution, alpha-stat pH management, and normoglycemia are believed to be important aspects of perioperative care.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2520938 TI - Anesthetic management of abdominal aortic surgery: a retrospective review of perioperative complications. AB - The incidence of perioperative complications was retrospectively reviewed in 103 patients who underwent replacement of the abdominal aorta from 1981 to 1987. Eighty-nine of the patients had associated systemic diseases, with hypertension being the most frequent (63%). Ischemic heart disease and cerebrovascular disease had an incidence of 12% and 13%, respectively. Combined anesthesia with lumbar epidural and light general anesthesia (group I) was compared with general anesthesia alone (group II). Excluding patients with a ruptured aneurysm, 39 of 97 patients (40%) had associated intraoperative hypertension, which was related to the presence of preexisting hypertension, but not to the anesthetic technique. Postoperative hypertension also occurred in 39 patients, but the incidence was not related to preoperative hypertension. More patients in group I had postoperative hypertension than in group II (P less than 0.05). In group I, 6 of 22 patients who received epidural morphine developed hypertension compared to 23 out of 37 patients not given epidural morphine (P less than 0.01). There were no significant differences in the overall complication rate between the two groups; however, the incidence of liver dysfunction was significantly higher in group II. Deterioration in renal function occurred in 6 patients, but with no difference between groups. There were three perioperative deaths (2.9%), with two of them resulting from cerebrovascular accidents in patients with a history of cerebrovascular disease. The overall morbidity and mortality were independent of the anesthetic technique. PMID- 2520939 TI - Diagnosis of myocardial ischemia by the pressure-rate quotient and diastolic time interval during coronary artery bypass surgery. AB - Diagnosis of intraoperative myocardial ischemia by the rate-pressure product (RPP), pressure-rate quotient (PRQ), and diastolic time interval (DTI) was studied in 13 patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) with fentanyl, vecuronium/pancuronium, and enflurane anesthesia. Criteria for ischemia were 1 mm of ST segment elevation or depression or T wave inversion on the ECG. RPP was calculated by multiplying the systolic arterial pressure (SAP) times the heart rate (HR); PRQ was determined by dividing the mean arterial pressure (MAP) by the HR; and DTI was defined as the interval from the closure of the aortic valve on M-mode transesophageal echocardiography to the onset of the QRS complex on the ECG. Six of 13 patients experienced episodes of ischemia (a total of 32 episodes out of 134 measurements). RPP of 12,000 was not found to correlate with myocardial ischemia (P greater than 0.05), whereas PRQ of less than 1.0 or DTI of less than 400 ms was associated with myocardial ischemia (P less than 0.005). In this preliminary study, it is concluded that both the PRQ and DTI are indicators of myocardial ischemia; it is also suggested that ischemia may be prevented by maintaining (1) DTI over 400 ms (HR less than 75 beats per minute), and (2) PRQ greater than 1.0 (MAP greater than HR). PMID- 2520940 TI - Correlation between arterial blood pressure and oxygenation in tetralogy of Fallot. AB - To examine the relationship between arterial blood pressure and oxygenation in patients undergoing complete surgical correction of tetralogy of Fallot, a retrospective study of 16 patients was first performed, looking at the correlation between mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) and arterial oxygen tension (PaO2). The correlation between phenylephrine-induced changes in MAP (delta MAP) and those in PaO2 (delta PaO2) was investigated prospectively in seven patients. In the retrospective study, there was a significant correlation between MAP and PaO2 (n = 66; r = 0.55; P less than 0.01), and most data points with a PaO2 less than 50 mm Hg were associated with a MAP less than 60 mm Hg. In the seven patients who received phenylephrine, 10 micrograms/kg, a significant correlation was found between delta MAP and delta PaO2 (n = 10; r = 0.95; P less than 0.01). These results suggest that in tetralogy of Fallot arterial blood pressure is a determinant of arterial oxygenation, and that the risk of serious hypoxia is significant when MAP is less than 60 mm Hg. PMID- 2520942 TI - Mustard takedown and arterial switch in a patient with transposition of the great vessels. PMID- 2520941 TI - Anesthetic management of the modified Fontan operation, using an intra-atrial conduit for a single ventricle with anomalous systemic venous return. PMID- 2520943 TI - Unexpected persistent left superior vena cava: diagnostic clues during monitoring. PMID- 2520944 TI - Persistent left superior vena cava. PMID- 2520945 TI - Right upper lobe collapse following uneventful endotracheal intubation. PMID- 2520946 TI - Pitfalls in interpretation of pulmonary artery catheter data. PMID- 2520947 TI - Case conference 5--1989. A 39-year-old female admitted for mitral valve surgery and myocardial revascularization. PMID- 2520948 TI - Pro: tight control of anticoagulation, not empiric management, improves outcome from cardiopulmonary bypass. PMID- 2520949 TI - Con: empiric management of anticoagulation, not tight control, improves outcome from cardiac surgery. PMID- 2520950 TI - Superior vena cava hematoma. PMID- 2520951 TI - An improved technique for changing endotracheal tubes. PMID- 2520952 TI - Transillumination aids the percutaneous cannulation of peripheral vessels. PMID- 2520954 TI - European Association of Cardiothoracic Anaesthesiologists (EACTA) 4th annual meeting. Uppsala, June 14-16, 1989. Abstracts of oral and poster presentations. PMID- 2520953 TI - Energy formation during brief periods of myocardial ischemia and subsequent reperfusion. PMID- 2520955 TI - Comparison of three different methods for measuring oxygen delivery/consumption in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. PMID- 2520956 TI - Continuous Fick cardiac output by fiberoptic oxymetry during aorto-coronary bypass surgery. A comparison with thermodilution cardiac output. PMID- 2520958 TI - Baroreceptor activity in patients with aortic stenosis prior to cardiac surgery. PMID- 2520959 TI - Differential ventilation (DV): experimental evaluation of a new electronic flow dividing unit. PMID- 2520957 TI - Effects of the serotonin-antagonist ketanserin on the function of ischaemic and normally perfused myocardium and modification by beta-1-blockade in anaesthetized normotensive dogs. PMID- 2520960 TI - Estimation of effective pulmonary capillary pressure in intensive care patients. PMID- 2520961 TI - The use of intrathecal morphine in thoracic anesthesia. PMID- 2520962 TI - Anaesthesia for diagnostic rigid bronchoscopy: sequential midazolam/flumazenil compared with intermittent thiopentone. PMID- 2520964 TI - Induction of anaesthesia in patients undergoing aortocoronary bypass surgery: propofol versus etomidate. PMID- 2520963 TI - Use of propofol infusion for sedation following coronary artery surgery. PMID- 2520965 TI - Cortisol levels in patients undergoing cardio pulmonary bypass. Comparison etomidate versus flunitrazepam. PMID- 2520966 TI - Haemodynamic effects of ketanserin in the treatment of hypertension following CABG: a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. PMID- 2520967 TI - Effects of adenosine on myocardial hemodynamics and metabolism after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). PMID- 2520968 TI - Vasodilating effect of adenosine triphosphate during cardiopulmonary bypass. PMID- 2520969 TI - The influence of adenosine on left ventricular performance in conscious dogs. PMID- 2520971 TI - Adenosine during ischemia and reperfusion; an experimental study on the pig heart. PMID- 2520972 TI - Estimation of arterial PCO2 from end-tidal PCO2 and oxygen saturation in cyanotic children. PMID- 2520970 TI - The influence of adenosine on hypoxia-induced pulmonary vasoconstriction in isolated perfused rat lungs. PMID- 2520973 TI - Effect of pulmonary arterial pressure on venous admixture during thoracotomy and one-lung ventilation. PMID- 2520975 TI - Temporal distribution of early mortality occurring in the clinics for cardiac surgery in Sweden during 1986-1987. PMID- 2520974 TI - Evaluation of four heat and moisture exchangers incorporating bacterial filters. PMID- 2520976 TI - Ischemia induced systolic and diastolic dysfunction in anesthetized patients undergoing percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. PMID- 2520977 TI - Beneficial effect of creatine phosphate (CP) in cardiac surgery: biochemical evidence. PMID- 2520978 TI - Right ventricular function of the denervated heart immediately after cardiac transplantation. PMID- 2520979 TI - Left ventricular diastolic dysfunction during coronary artery bypass grafting: assessment with transesophageal Doppler echocardiography. PMID- 2520980 TI - Transesophageal assessment of systolic and diastolic left ventricular function during positive end-expiratory pressure ventilation. PMID- 2520982 TI - Experience with partial atrio-arterial bypass in treating ventricular failure after heart operations. PMID- 2520981 TI - Successful management of graft failure with extra corporeal membrane oxygenator (ECMO) following heart transplant in infancy. PMID- 2520983 TI - Mechanical assisted circulation: in vitro evaluation of flow patterns in percutaneous arterial and venous cannulas. PMID- 2520984 TI - Myocardial metabolism during infusion of glucose-insulin-potassium before coronary artery bypass grafting. PMID- 2520985 TI - The interest of coronary sinus oxygen saturation measurement during induced ventricular tachycardia. Preliminary results. PMID- 2520986 TI - Oxygen mixed venous saturation and direct oxygen uptake during circulatory assistance: usefulness of non-conventional monitoring. PMID- 2520987 TI - Cardioprotective effects of carnitine in extensive aorto-coronary bypass grafting. PMID- 2520988 TI - Different effects of morphine and pethidine on longitudinal and circular muscle tension of bovine coronary artery in vitro. PMID- 2520989 TI - Anesthesia and critical care in surgical management of acute aortic dissections. PMID- 2520990 TI - A different treatment of post-cardiac surgery atelectasis by selective insufflation. PMID- 2520991 TI - Central venous catheterization in infants and children with congenital heart diseases--experiences with 400 consecutive punctures. PMID- 2520992 TI - Continuous thoracic paravertebral block. PMID- 2520993 TI - Local anaesthesia of all parasternal intercostal spaces can prevent increases in heart rate and blood pressure during sternotomy. PMID- 2520994 TI - The effect of pHa and whole body oxygen uptake on renal function during hypothermic cardiopulmonary bypass in man. PMID- 2520995 TI - Renal effects of pH-stat/alfa-stat strategy during cardiopulmonary bypass. PMID- 2520996 TI - Incidence of acute renal failure in open heart surgery. PMID- 2520998 TI - Hormonal variations and renal function during cardiac surgery with cardio pulmonary bypass. PMID- 2520997 TI - Acute renal failure following cardiac surgery: is the FeK+ a predictive index? PMID- 2520999 TI - Renal function, early postoperatively, in patients undergoing heart transplantation: experience with 61 patients. PMID- 2521000 TI - Release of neuropeptide Y and noradrenaline from the human heart after aortic occlusion during coronary artery surgery. PMID- 2521001 TI - Mean flow velocity response of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) to CO2 during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) under total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA): midazolam/fentanyl vs methohexitone/alfentanil. PMID- 2521002 TI - Transcranial Doppler versus thermodilution measurements of cerebral blood flow during cardiac surgery. PMID- 2521003 TI - The Kety Schmidt technique revisited: bedside measurement of cerebral blood flow and metabolism in children during and after cardiopulmonary bypass surgery. PMID- 2521004 TI - Myocardial circulatory and metabolic effects of halothane when used to control intraoperative hypertension in patients with coronary artery disease. PMID- 2521005 TI - Effects of pulsatile and non pulsatile perfusion on cerebral blood flow; metabolism and the incidence of neurological disorders following ECC. PMID- 2521006 TI - Early detection of cerebral ischaemia by computerized EEG monitoring. Results during 132 carotid endarterectomies. PMID- 2521007 TI - EEG and cerebral complications in combined carotid and cardiac operations. PMID- 2521009 TI - Sequestration of propofol in an extracorporeal circuit. PMID- 2521008 TI - Effects of priming fluids and oxygenators on arterial pressure and vascular resistance during cardio-pulmonary bypass. PMID- 2521010 TI - Neutrophil oxidative metabolism during cardiopulmonary by-pass with polypropylene hollow fibre oxygenator. PMID- 2521011 TI - Neopterin plasma levels during and after extra-corporal circulation (ECC) in uncomplicated cardiac surgical patients. PMID- 2521012 TI - "The meaning of core to peripheral thermic gradient after hypothermic cardiopulmonary bypass". PMID- 2521013 TI - Ventricular fibrillation vs cardiac arrest for correction of atrial septal defect. PMID- 2521014 TI - Heparin rebound: a comparative study of protamine sulfate and protamine chloride in CABG surgery. PMID- 2521015 TI - Blood conservation in cardiac surgery--cell saving versus haemofiltration. PMID- 2521017 TI - Heparin-coated CPB-sets increase biocompatibility and reduce endothelial cell damage in pigs. PMID- 2521018 TI - Complement activation in shed blood: release of C3a and C5a. Implications for autologous transfusion. AB - This preliminary data indicates that kinins are activated in blood shed into a wound particularly at the beginning of an operation. Reinfusion of such blood should only be accomplished after the removal of these activated factors. PMID- 2521016 TI - Routine use of pre-donated autologous blood in cardiac surgery: a three year experience. PMID- 2521019 TI - Blood saving in cardiac surgery. Preliminary results. PMID- 2521020 TI - Prophylactic use of antithrombin III for protection of haemostatic balance in patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass. PMID- 2521021 TI - The effect of dipyridamole and aspirin on postoperative blood loss after myocardial revascularization. PMID- 2521022 TI - High-volume-cardioplegia: washout or temperature effects? PMID- 2521023 TI - Vasodilating effect of isoflurane during cardiopulmonary bypass. PMID- 2521024 TI - Perioperative consultation: the science and the art. PMID- 2521025 TI - The value to the anesthesia-surgical care team of the preoperative cardiac consultation. AB - A retrospective analysis of 202 consultations for preoperative cardiology evaluation was conducted. The most common problems generating the consultation were: (1) abnormal electrocardiogram, 45 patients; (2) chest pain, 36 patients; (3) history of myocardial infarction, 27 patients; (4) dysrhythmia, 25 patients; and (5) hypertension, 23 patients. The most common diagnoses by the consultants were: (1) arteriosclerotic heart disease, 46 patients; (2) angina, 20 patients; and (3) hypertension, 40 patients. Mitral valve prolapse was the most common valvular disease (18 patients). Of the consultation requests, 108 asked for an evaluation; 79 asked for a "clearance"; 9 did not specifically ask for anything; and 6 asked a highly specific question. Most consultations provided a diagnosis (96%), addressed the problem (80%), and provided logical recommendations (96%). A minority of the consultations "cleared" a patient (28%), provided for follow-up care (41%), or suggested intraoperative monitoring techniques (41%). Out of the 189 patients who eventually had surgery, 137 patients had no change in their preoperative therapy, while 52 patients had a change in preoperative therapy. There was no difference in the incidence of complications between these two groups. An important finding was that 15% of the study group (31 patients) had disease processes (hypertension and angina) that were newly diagnosed by the consultant or felt to be not adequately treated before the consultation. It is concluded that few requesting anesthesiologists and surgeons ask for clarification of a specific problem, while most responses from the cardiology consultants provided necessary information. In addition, the preoperative cardiac consultation was found to identify medical conditions requiring long-term care and follow-up. PMID- 2521026 TI - The efficacy of nicardipine and nitroprusside in preventing poststernotomy hypertension. AB - The efficacy of nicardipine and nitroprusside in preventing poststernotomy hypertension was compared in two groups of 45 patients undergoing coronary artery surgery. Patients were anesthetized with fentanyl, 100 micrograms/kg, and oxygen. Group N received nicardipine at an initial rate of 3 micrograms/kg/min. Group S received sodium nitroprusside at an initial rate of 1 microgram/kg/min. The vasodilators were started before surgery, and infusion rates were adjusted to maintain systolic blood pressure between 80% and 120% of postintubation (baseline) values. Additional measurements were obtained before incision and after sternotomy. In both groups, arterial blood pressure could be controlled effectively in all patients. In group S, pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) decreased before incision. At this time, systemic vascular resistance (SVR) decreased in both groups. After sternotomy, PAP returned to baseline values in group S. In both groups, heart rate, rate-pressure product, and cardiac index increased, while SVR remained decreased. In the period from induction of anesthesia to the start of cardiopulmonary bypass, the incidence of myocardial ischemia was greater (P less than 0.01) in group S (24%) than in group N (9%). Between the groups, the concentration of creatine phosphokinase MB was not significantly different in the first 24 hours postoperatively. In conclusion, it was shown that nicardipine may be a suitable alternative to nitroprusside for the prevention of poststernotomy hypertension and myocardial ischemia in patients undergoing coronary artery surgery. PMID- 2521027 TI - Intravenous nicardipine for treatment of intraoperative hypertension during abdominal surgery. AB - Twenty patients, American Society of Anesthesiologists class I or II, who developed intraoperative hypertension (mean arterial pressure greater than 110 mm Hg) during abdominal surgery under balanced general anesthesia were randomly assigned to two groups. The nicardipine group (n = 10) received 5 mg of nicardipine hydrochloride, and the placebo group (n = 10) received 5 mL of nicardipine solvent injected intravenously over a 5-minute period in a blind manner. Arterial pressure was recorded for 15 minutes after the injection was started. If the mean arterial pressure did not decrease at least 10% at 15 minutes, the trial was opened and patients received 5 mg of nicardipine. None of the patients in the nicardipine group received nicardipine in an open manner, in contrast with 7 of the 10 patients in the placebo group (P less than 0.03, Fisher exact test). During both the blind period and the open trial, nicardipine induced a 34% decrease in systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial pressure. Minimal values of pressure were noted at 6 minutes; however, arterial pressure remained below the pre-nicardipine injection values and near preoperative values for 45 minutes. No severe hypotension was observed, but the nicardipine injection was stopped at 3 mg in two cases during the blind period because of the rate of pressure reduction. Heart rate remained unchanged during the decrease in arterial pressure in both groups. This study indicates that nicardipine is an effective, long lasting, and safe therapy for intraoperative hypertension during abdominal surgery. PMID- 2521028 TI - The effects of intravenous nitroglycerin and isosorbide dinitrate on hemodynamics and myocardial metabolism. AB - Myocardial ischemia before and during coronary artery surgery is significant, because patients who develop perioperative myocardial ischemia have an increased incidence of postoperative myocardial infarctions. Thus, the prevention of ischemic episodes is of great importance. This study was undertaken to (1) compare the effects of intravenous nitroglycerin (NTG) with isosorbide dinitrate (ISDN); (2) investigate if the continuous infusion of nitrates had beneficial effects on cardiac performance and metabolism; and (3) compare the control of blood pressure with the nitrates versus halothane during a standardized anesthetic. Twenty-one patients participated in the study, and all had the following: a radial arterial catheter, peripheral venous catheter, 7F pulmonary artery catheter, and Baim coronary sinus flow catheter. The study was carried out in the prebypass period beginning with awake measurements of baseline parameters, and ending after median sternotomy. The patients were divided into three groups: group 1 received an infusion of NTG; group 2 received an infusion of ISDN; and group 3, the control, received neither nitrate, but halothane was added to control hemodynamics. Measurements were made at the following time intervals: (1) baseline; (2) after 5 minutes of the nitrate infusions while awake (groups 1 and 2); (3) after induction of anesthesia, laryngoscopy, and intubation; and (4) after median sternotomy. In groups 1 and 2, the nitrates were infused at 0.1 mg/kg/h for 5 minutes. Thereafter, blood pressure control and treatment of episodic hypertension were achieved by alteration of the rate of nitrate infusions, or, in group 3, by 0.5% to 2% of inspired halothane.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521029 TI - Desmopressin acetate following cardiopulmonary bypass: evaluation of coagulation parameters. AB - Desmopressin acetate (DDAVP) has been advocated as efficacious in reducing mediastinal bleeding following cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), and has been shown to ameliorate platelet dysfunction; however, this has not been evaluated during routine coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). In the present study, this therapy was evaluated utilizing the thromboelastograph (TEG), a rapid, on-line means of diagnosing a coagulopathy. During elective CABG, 20 patients received either DDAVP, 0.3 microgram/kg, intravenously, following heparin reversal after CPB, or a placebo infusion, in a randomized, double-blind fashion. Hemostasis was monitored with both the TEG and conventional coagulation tests. No significant differences between the two groups were found at induction, postprotamine, post "study infusion," or 2 hours postoperatively, with the exception of the postoperative PTT (31.1 +/- 3.2 v 36.5 +/- 5.9 seconds for DDAVP v placebo, P = 0.03). Total blood products transfused intraoperatively, and in the first 8, 16, 24, or 48 postoperative hours, were also similar between the groups. No manifestations of hypercoagulability were seen, but hypotension during the infusion was noted in four patients receiving DDAVP, and in none of the controls. It is concluded that the expense and potential complications of DDAVP therapy do not justify its routine use in CABG. PMID- 2521030 TI - Evaluation of post-cardiopulmonary bypass Sonoclot signatures in patients taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. AB - Patients who take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) and who experience bleeding after cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) are treated empirically with platelet transfusions because of the unavailability of rapid and accurate diagnostic clotting function tests. Therefore, a Sonoclot Analyzer (Sienco, Inc, Morrison, CO), which measures the change in the viscoelastic properties of recalcified whole blood, was used to assess platelet function in 51 patients undergoing CPB for cardiac surgery. Seventeen patients (group 1) taking NSAID were compared with 34 patients who were not taking NSAID (group 2). Blood samples were drawn for Sonoclot analysis before and after CPB. Chest tube drainage was measured for 24 hours postoperatively in both groups. Clot retraction, measured by the down slope on the Sonoclot signature, decreased significantly in group-1 patients, although values obtained for both groups were in the normal range. No difference was found between groups when Sonoclot signatures were compared, requirements for replacement of clotting factors or platelets, chest tube blood drainage, and unscheduled return to the operating room for bleeding. It is concluded that patients taking NSAID did not experience increased bleeding after cardiopulmonary bypass and that empiric platelet transfusion seemed unnecessary. In addition, the Sonoclot Analyzer seems to be a useful and sensitive instrument for rapidly assessing platelet function in the operating room. PMID- 2521031 TI - Activated partial thromboplastin time-protamine dose relation in the presence and absence of heparin. AB - A protamine titration is one of the methods to determine the protamine dose necessary to neutralize heparin. The protamine dose response was studied with the activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) in the presence of a known amount of heparin and in the absence of heparin, using freshly prepared human plasma. When heparin was present in the plasma, APTT values plateaued between a minimal neutralizing dose of protamine and a protamine dose five times greater. At doses above the APTT plateau, protamine exerted its own anticoagulant action as evidenced by an increase in APTT values. In the absence of heparin, APTT did not change until the protamine concentration reached 50 micrograms/mL. Then the APTT began to increase above this critical concentration. The increases in APTT values caused by an increase of 50 micrograms/mL of protamine were significantly greater without heparin than they were in the presence of heparin. These results suggest that protamine has a wide safety range when neutralizing heparin without exerting its own anticoagulant action. Although the mechanisms are under speculation, the heparin-protamine complex may inhibit the anticoagulant action of protamine in vitro. PMID- 2521032 TI - Hemolysis during cardiopulmonary bypass. AB - Hemolysis of red blood cells is a problem during cardiopulmonary bypass. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the influence of the priming solution and of the initial acceleration of the pump on red blood cell trauma and hemolysis. Eighty adult patients undergoing coronary artery grafting with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) were randomly assigned to one of four groups according to the nature of the priming solution and the initial speed of CPB flow (time from the start to the full calculated flow): group 1, lactated Ringer's (LR) with 5% dextrose (5%D), 1 minute; group 2, LR5%D, 2 minutes; group 3, LR, 1 minute; group 4, LR, 2 minutes. Plasma hemoglobin was found to be 4 times higher in group 1 than in the three other groups (P less than 0.001). It is concluded that there is an interaction between the presence of glucose in the priming solution and the initial acceleration of pump flow. The combination of LR5%D prime with a short time interval to full pump flow leads to a significant degree of hemolysis. PMID- 2521033 TI - Evaluation of a user-operated patient-side blood gas and chemistry monitor in children undergoing cardiac surgery. AB - A study was performed to evaluate a user-operated patient-side blood gas and chemistry monitor (GEM-STAT, Mallinckrodt Sensor Systems, Ann Arbor, MI) for the first time in a group of infants and children with congenital heart disease undergoing cardiac surgery. Paired blood samples from 18 patients were analyzed by the test instrument and by standard clinical laboratory instruments. One failure of the test instrument, malfunction of a cartridge, occurred during the evaluation. The integrated and external quality control functions gave readings within the manufacturer's tolerance. The differences between the measurements obtained using the GEM-STAT and the standard laboratory instruments for five of the six variables are summarized as follows (mean +/- SD, units of measure, number of samples): pH (-0.017 +/- 0.02, 132), PaCO2 (-1.90 +/- 3.3 mm Hg, 130), hematocrit (-1.3 +/- 2.3%, 129), potassium (-0.17 +/- 0.20 mmol, 112) and sodium (-2.0 +/- 3.3 mmol, 112). The mean difference in the measurements of PaO2 in the clinically important range defined by the upper quality control limit for oxygen tension of 172 mm Hg for the GEM-STAT is: (-0.20 +/- 7.26 mm Hg, 51). The mean difference between the measurements for PaO2s below the lowest quality control point (60 mm Hg) was (-2.3 +/- 5.5 mm Hg, 30). The values for all variables obtained from the GEM-STAT during the trial period, with the exception of the PaO2 less than 60 mm Hg, showed good correlation with the laboratory over the clinically useful range.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521034 TI - The hemodynamic effects of topical fibrin glue during cardiac operations. PMID- 2521035 TI - Malposition of central venous catheters outside the central circulation. PMID- 2521036 TI - A new complication of left atrial catheters. PMID- 2521037 TI - Mediastinal bleeding after cardiac surgery: etiologies, diagnostic considerations, and blood conservation methods. PMID- 2521038 TI - Blood-product usage in cardiac surgery. AB - Many patients undergo cardiac surgery with preexisting congenital and acquired coagulation defects. Almost all of these can be recognized and corrected preoperatively. CPB itself induces a variety of abnormalities of coagulation, affecting plasma proteins, platelets, and the fibrinolytic system. These abnormalities do not always cause clinically significant bleeding. When they do, logical laboratory assessment and blood-component usage can usually correct the defect. The use of blood products is associated with allergic, viral, and hemolytic risks. Exciting advances have been made in the use of synthetic alternatives to blood products. Both DDAVP and aprotinin seem promising in this respect, but more investigation is needed into the mechanisms of action and possible thrombotic complications of these drugs. In the future, anesthesiologists and surgeons may look forward to more safe and effective therapy of bleeding in cardiac surgical patients. PMID- 2521039 TI - Pro: regional anesthesia is preferable to general anesthesia for the patient with heart disease. PMID- 2521040 TI - Con: regional anesthesia is not preferable to general anesthesia for the patient with heart disease. AB - The debate over regional anesthesia and general anesthesia with respect to relative risk in different classes of patients will probably be interminable until studies addressing the issue begin to specify the treatment protocols more carefully and to control as many variables as possible. Patients with cardiovascular disease who undergo major surgery are special cases in which either form of anesthesia may be acceptable or preferable. The benefits of lesser regional procedures do not necessarily extend to major conduction blockade in these individuals. Appropriate monitoring and goal-directed control of physiologic variables throughout the entire perioperative period may be more important than the type of anesthesia. General anesthesia that is carefully prepared, monitored, and conducted cannot be ruled out in the seriously ill. PMID- 2521041 TI - CABG, aspirin, and transfusion. PMID- 2521043 TI - Position of oxygenators in the bypass circuit. PMID- 2521042 TI - Infusion rate and hemodynamics with desmopressin. PMID- 2521044 TI - Amrinone: contemporary management of the low cardiac output syndrome. Introduction. PMID- 2521045 TI - Amrinone: pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. AB - Amrinone is a selective inhibitor of phosphodiesterase fraction 3 in both cardiac and smooth muscle. Intravenous administration in humans produces increased contractility and vasodilation of venous capacitance and arterial conductance vessels. The elimination half-life in healthy patients is reported to be 2.6 to 4.1 hours, making it the only long-acting positive inotropic agent available that can be administered either as an intravenous bolus or by infusion. A low incidence of side effects, often minor, has been reported with intravenous use. Thrombocytopenia does not seem to be a problem with short-term use. Amrinone represents a new approach in the pharmacologic therapy for ventricular dysfunction following cardiac surgery. PMID- 2521046 TI - Historical perspectives and update of amrinone. AB - The pathophysiological understanding and management of acute and chronic heart failure have changed dramatically in the past decade. Since the early 1980s, a major effort has been made to develop nonglycosidic, noncatecholamine agents that combine inotropic and vasodilating properties, in order to treat myocardial dysfunction unresponsive to current therapy. Within this context, increasing attention has been paid to the role of intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) in myocardial contractility. The pharmacologic use of catecholamines to stimulate beta-receptors activates adenylate cyclase, which in turn leads to an increase in intracellular levels of cAMP. In addition, phosphodiesterase 3 (PDE 3) inhibition may prevent the degradation of cAMP, thus maintaining high intracellular levels of the substance. Intravenous amrinone has been shown clinically to improve hemodynamic status remarkably in the patient experiencing a low cardiac output syndrome, by increasing CO while decreasing filling pressures and pulmonary arterial pressures, without increasing myocardial O2 demand. This report will review several studies of different types of patients and explain the effects of amrinone alone and in combination with the more traditionally used catecholamines. It must be stressed that amrinone, in spite of its dual action of inotropy and vasodilation, should not be considered a rival to catecholamines but rather an enhancer of them, which clinicians should consider using in the early stages of therapy in many different settings. PMID- 2521047 TI - Cardiovascular physiology: an overview. PMID- 2521048 TI - Clinical applications of amrinone. AB - A bipyridine derivative, amrinone is a noncatecholamine, nonglycoside alternative in the treatment of perioperative myocardial dysfunction. A type-3 phosphodiesterase enzyme inhibitor, amrinone combines positive inotropic support with systemic and pulmonary vasodilation. In patients with heart failure undergoing cardiac or noncardiac surgery, the absence of tachycardia and dysrhythmias is of particular clinical benefit. In these patients, amrinone's ability to augment cardiac performance without increasing heart rate or myocardial oxygen consumption offers significant clinical advantages during the perioperative period. PMID- 2521049 TI - The role of amrinone in potential heart transplant patients with pulmonary hypertension. AB - Orthotopic heart transplantation is contraindicated in patients with pulmonary hypertension and an elevated pulmonary vascular resistance. In an attempt to make otherwise unacceptable patients possible candidates for heart transplantation, amrinone was administered intravenously to 27 individuals with a transpulmonary gradient and pulmonary vascular resistance in the abnormal range. Twenty-four of 27 patients (89%) responded positively. Twenty-one of 27 (78%) went on to transplantation and 20 of 21 (95%) survived the procedure. A second study compared amrinone therapy with conventional therapy in 38 potential transplant candidates with pulmonary hypertension. Amrinone was more effective in reducing pulmonary hypertension than conventional therapy with high-dose diuretics, digitalis, and captopril (86% v 63%). Survival rate of those awaiting transplantation was also significantly higher in the amrinone group (91% v 63%). Although the protocol for comparing the two regimens does not allow for extrapolation of the results (amrinone was administered in-hospital under close monitoring, whereas conventional therapy was self-administered at home), the findings confirm the clinical impression that amrinone seems more effective and safer than conventional therapy in the treatment of potential heart transplant patients with pulmonary hypertension. PMID- 2521050 TI - Effects of amrinone on the right side of the heart. AB - Unlike the left ventricle, the right ventricle is a thin-walled, low-pressure, volume-displacement pump that ensures adequacy of left ventricular filling and maintains a low pressure in the venous system. In healthy human subjects, there is no burden for right ventricular systolic emptying, because normal pulmonary vessels have a low impedance and show a passive recruitment when cardiac output increases. However, under a pathological condition like right-sided heart failure, the right ventricle may exert profound influences on the circulatory state. Right-sided heart failure most often results from primary or secondary pulmonary arterial hypertension. Pharmacologic vasodilation of the hypertensive pulmonary vascular bed is an ideal therapy for right-sided heart failure. The bipyridine derivative amrinone has positive inotropic and direct vasodilator properties, and therefore seems suitable for the therapy of right ventricular dysfunction accompanied by pulmonary arterial hypertension. In one study, 12 patients with right ventricular failure due to mitral valve stenosis were evaluated, and it was found that amrinone increased cardiac output by 25% and decreased pulmonary artery pressure by 30% to 50%. In a second study, the hemodynamic properties of amrinone versus sodium nitroprusside were compared in patients with aortic or mitral valve failure (n = 17), when both agents lowered systemic vascular resistance equally. Pulmonary vascular resistance decreased significantly (25%) only in the amrinone group. PMID- 2521051 TI - Amrinone: is it the inotrope of choice? AB - In the treatment of acute heart failure, conventional therapy with epinephrine, norepinephrine, dopamine, and dobutamine may be used effectively to treat inotropic abnormalities. However, the addition of a vasodilator to catecholamine therapy may be needed to help improve lusitropic function. Because it seems to exert positive inotropic and lusitropic effects, the phosphodiesterase inhibitor amrinone may be a valuable addition to the anesthesiologist's armamentarium for the treatment of acute heart failure. When used as adjunctive therapy with catecholamines, amrinone has been shown to exert a significant additive and synergistic effect. Amrinone may also be the inotrope of choice in patients who are refractory to therapy with conventional inotropes, due to its positive inotropic and lusitropic effects, combined with its vasodilating effects. Because of its broad pharmacodynamic spectrum, amrinone may effectively control all of the major elements involved in myocardial performance--preload, afterload, contractility, and heart rate. PMID- 2521052 TI - A proposal for DSM-IV: solving the "organic/nonorganic" problem. PMID- 2521053 TI - Temporal lobe measurement in primary affective disorder by magnetic resonance imaging. AB - Magnetic resonance imaging brain scans were performed on 17 patients with primary affective disorder and 21 normal subjects. A coronal slice through the temporal lobes at the level of the pons and interpeduncular cistern was selected in each subject, and specific temporal lobe structures and the cerebral area were measured. Ratios between structures of the same hemisphere were calculated. The ratio of the temporal lobe to cerebral area was smaller in patients than controls both on the left (p less than .02) and on the right (p less than .03). The data suggest that patients with primary affective disorder may have a relative decrease in the size of the temporal lobe compared with normal controls. PMID- 2521055 TI - Single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) with [123I]IMP in the differential diagnosis of psychiatric disorders. AB - Single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) with [123I]N-isopropyl iodoamphetamine--[123I]IMP--was used to study regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) in 94 psychiatric patients and six controls. Patients with dementias had distinct brain-image patterns, consistent with the expected neuropathology. Major depressives had decreased cortical and subcortical rCBF. Increased caudate rCBF was observed in schizophrenics and other psychoses with positive symptoms. SPECT is a practical method of functional brain imaging with potential in the differential diagnosis of neuropsychiatric disorders. Further studies are needed to assess the effect of other variables on brain-image patterns. PMID- 2521054 TI - White matter hyperintensity on magnetic resonance imaging: clinical and neuroanatomic correlates in the depressed elderly. AB - In a prospective study of depressed elderly patients referred for electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), subcortical white matter hyperintensity (WMH) was seen in all 51 patients 60 years or older who received magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) prior to treatment. In over half of the patients the WMH was formally rated as at least moderately severe, and it was commonly associated with other structural brain changes. The majority (80%) of patients had late-age-onset depression, suggesting that structural brain changes may interact with aging to facilitate the emergency of depression in late life. PMID- 2521056 TI - Neuropsychological impairments associated with severity of Parkinson's disease. AB - Intellectual impairment and disease severity tend to parallel one another in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD), but the pattern of development of the neuropsychological impairments contributing to the overall intellectual decline is unknown. This problem was addressed by comparing neuropsychological performance in the early and later stages of PD. Impairment of recent memory, impairment of cognition, and somatic features of depression were seen early and worsened with more advanced disease. Impairment of visuospatial skills, remote memory, language, and mood were observed only in the later stages of PD. These findings suggest that neuropsychological impairments do not develop in a uniform manner with progression of PD. PMID- 2521057 TI - Dementia in Parkinson's disease: the problem of clinicopathological correlation. AB - Four cases of Parkinson's disease with advanced dementia are described. Postmortem examination revealed cell loss in the substantia nigra, with Lewy bodies present, and loss of cells in the basal nucleus of Meynert. A few tangles were observed in the hippocampus, but no senile plaques or neurofibrillary tangles were found in the neocortex. The authors note that a dramatic dementia syndrome may occur with Parkinson's disease alone, without the associated cytoskeletal markers of Alzheimer's disease. Cases were characterized by disorientation, episodic confusion and hallucinations persisting off medication, disturbed behavior, and the absence of aphasia. PMID- 2521058 TI - Effect of intraventricular nadolol infusion on shock-induced aggression in 6 hydroxydopamine-treated rats. AB - Increasingly, beta blockers are being utilized to treat patients with aggressive disorders secondary to brain lesions. To secure further data about the potential efficacy of beta blockers for this condition, a rat model was employed in which aggression was enhanced by 6-hydroxydopamine. Following lesioning of the brain, aggression in the rats increased from an average baseline of 10.9 +/- 2.1 to 42.7 +/- 2.0 fights per testing period. Thereafter, either pharmacologically inert, artificial CSF or nadolol was introduced through transcerebral, intraventricular perfusion with a significant reduction in aggression in the nadolol-treated animals when compared with those receiving artificial CSF. PMID- 2521059 TI - Defining neuropsychiatry: professional activities and opinions of psychiatrist neurologists with dual certification. AB - A computer-based search was conducted to locate physicians jointly certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in both adult psychiatry and adult neurology since 1960. Eighty-six such physicians were found, and a survey concerning their practice patterns and opinions was conducted. From this survey, it appears that a number of "supraspecialized" neuropsychiatrists are involved in clinical activities that overlap the traditional limits of neurology and psychiatry. PMID- 2521060 TI - 10-Hydroxynortriptyline and treatment effects in elderly depressed patients. AB - Sixty-four elderly depressed outpatients were treated with nortriptyline for seven weeks. Plasma nortriptyline and its main metabolite, 10 hydroxynortriptyline, were measured weekly. No relationship was found between levels of 10-hydroxynortriptyline and clinical response. Plasma levels of the trans isomer, E-10-hydroxynortriptyline, were significantly lower when dizziness and symptoms of orthostatic hypotension were reported, although there was no significant correlation with actual orthostatic drop in systolic pressure. Plasma level of 10-hydroxynortriptyline was not significantly correlated with the other reported side effects. PMID- 2521061 TI - The construct validity of the ischemic score of Hachinski for the detection of dementias. AB - Two hundred forty-one nursing home patients from the National Nursing Home Survey Pretest were assessed using the Ischemic Score of Hachinski. Medical chart diagnoses were used to classify those with and without dementia. The Mini-Mental State Examination was used to assess the accuracy of the medical-chart diagnoses of dementia. The Ischemic Score failed to differentiate multi-infarct dementia from other types of dementias. Instead, the difference between the two dementia groups was in the direction opposite that predicted by Hachinski. PMID- 2521062 TI - Radiologic correlates of antidepressant-induced delirium: the possible significance of basal-ganglia lesions. AB - Antidepressant-induced delirium in five of 60 (8%) patients over the age of 45 is reported. In each case, delirium developed within two weeks of beginning the antidepressant and appeared to be completely reversible once the medication was discontinued. Brain magnetic resonance imaging revealed basal-ganglia lesions in each patient who developed delirium. This finding indicates that patients with basal-ganglia lesions may be more vulnerable to antidepressant-induced delirium and is consistent with recent data from the neurologic and psychiatric literature that implicate the basal ganglia in the development of other types of delirium. PMID- 2521063 TI - Clozapine treatment of psychosis in Parkinson's disease. AB - Treating psychosis in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) is one of the more difficult problems in clinical psychiatry. In this case report, a patient with PD and psychosis was treated with the novel neuroleptic clozapine and sustained improvement in both behavior and PD symptoms. PMID- 2521064 TI - The genetics of narcolepsy. PMID- 2521065 TI - Panic attack precipitated by fluoxetine. PMID- 2521067 TI - Dementia and depression: an evolving enigma. PMID- 2521066 TI - Early neuropsychological dysfunction caused by human immunodeficiency virus. AB - The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the etiological agent of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), directly affects the central nervous system (CNS) and often causes cognitive, motor, and behavioral changes and eventually a dementia prior to death. Suggestive evidence for the early onset of HIV-induced mental changes is derived from numerous case reports, the nature of subcortical CNS postmortem findings, and early abnormalities seen in cerebrospinal fluid, on brain computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and electroencephalography, and on neuropsychological tests administered to patients with AIDS and AIDS-related complex. However, whether clinically significant cerebral impairment can precede symptoms of immunosuppression is unclear. A few studies have shown poorer performance on neuropsychological tests by asymptomatic HIV-infected subjects compared with uninfected controls, but several studies have not found this difference. To address this controversy, the current literature is reviewed, methodological problems are discussed, and recommendations are made for evaluation and treatment when early HIV-induced mental changes are suspected. PMID- 2521068 TI - Cognitive impairments in different stages of Parkinson's disease. AB - A consecutive series of 94 patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) were evaluated for the presence of depression and neuropsychological deficits. Patients were divided into groups based on the severity of their PD symptoms and then further subdivided into depressed and nondepressed groups. Both stage of PD and existence of depression had significant effects on neuropsychological performance. The nondepressed group with severe symptoms showed deficits in cognitive tasks involving motor speed, and the depressed patients with severe symptoms demonstrated impairments in frontal-lobe-related tasks. PMID- 2521069 TI - Oxiracetam in the treatment of multi-infarct dementia and primary degenerative dementia. AB - Oxiracetam is a recently synthesized nootropic that was tested as a potential treatment for cognitive decline in patients with multi-infarct dementia (MID) and primary degenerative dementia (PDD). Subjects were 34 MID patients and 39 PDD patients who met entrance criteria for the study. A repeated measures ANOVA showed significant improvement in both patients with MID and patients with PDD for word fluency. The total score on the Relatives' Assessment of Global Symptomatology-Elderly showed significant improvement for patients with PDD. The average score on the Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale, however, showed a significant decline for patients with PDD. PMID- 2521070 TI - Dementia of depression among patients with neurological disorders and functional depression. AB - Cognitive performance on the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) was assessed in depressed patients (diagnosis of major depression) with cerebrovascular lesions, with Parkinson's disease, or with functional depression (no known brain lesions). Controls for patients with brain lesions or Parkinson's disease were nondepressed patients with the same conditions. Controls for functionally depressed patients were age-matched normal individuals. Depressed patients had significantly lower total MMSE scores than their nondepressed counterparts, but depression did not have an effect on cognitive performance across the three disease groups. The only significant difference between depressed and nondepressed patients shared by all three groups was poorer performance by depressed patients on the delayed-recall task. The findings suggest that major depression may lead to a specific pattern of cognitive deficits independent of coexisting brain pathology. PMID- 2521071 TI - Neuropsychological "systems efficiency" and positron emission tomography. AB - Positron emission tomography (PET) has dramatically improved our ability to examine the functioning of the living brain. PET studies of neural pathways of the major sensory modalities--auditory, visual, somatosensory--have confirmed many traditional neuropsychological concepts, such as cross-lateral representation and regional functioning to particular primary sensory cortical areas. Other PET studies have used radioisotopes to examine relationships between radiopharmaceutical agents and neurobehavioral functioning in both normal and neuropathological states. In some areas, PET methodology requires further refinement. For example, effort should be made to develop the technology to do multiple scans within a short time frame; statistical procedures to examine relationships between neuropsychological tasks and the activity or presence of radiopharmaceutical agents in multiple sites; adequate controls for experimental error; and activation paradigms controlling the nonspecific effects of simple arousal. PET activation models of cognition suggest that a "systems efficiency" approach to assessing neuropsychological test performance involving both serial and parallel processing would be useful. These developments will improve empirical methodology and our understanding of brain-behavior relationships. PMID- 2521072 TI - Delirium: a subcortical phenomenon? AB - Evoked potentials of 23 patients with chronic liver disease and delirium were compared with those of matched controls without delirium. Delirious subjects had significantly worse scores on the Mini-Mental State Exam and Trail Making Tests. Mean peak activity from computerized spectral analysis of the EEG was lower in delirious subjects than in nondelirious subjects (7.5 +/- 3.8 cycles per second (cps) and 9.5 +/- 3.2 cps, respectively). Mean auditory brainstem evoked potentials were abnormal in both groups, with delirious subjects showing a bimodal distribution of latency values and a greater proportion of abnormal values. Somatosensory evoked potentials were abnormal for delirious patients and normal for controls, and the differences were significant. The data suggest that the underlying pathophysiology of delirium may lie, at least in part, at the subcortical level. PMID- 2521073 TI - Neuropsychological function in physically asymptomatic, HIV-seropositive men. AB - Twenty asymptomatic, HIV-seropositive homosexual men and a control group of 20 seronegative homosexual men were evaluated for evidence of neuropsychological impairment. Two-tailed paired t-tests of group differences revealed that the seropositive patients had significantly lower scores on two of 20 neuropsychological measures. Ten seropositive patients had scores two standard deviations below the sample, compared with three seronegative patients, a significantly different distribution (p = .04). The HIV-infected group exhibited lower mean scores on 17 of 20 variables (binomial probability, p less than .005). The 10 seropositive patients with scores that fell below the cut-off had significantly lower mean T4/T8 ratios than the 10 seropositive patients with scores above the cut-off (p = .02). The data suggest that a subpopulation of HIV infected adults may exhibit subtle neuropsychological impairment before they develop clinical signs of cognitive deficit or immunosuppression. PMID- 2521074 TI - Habituation of the startle reflex in posttraumatic stress disorder. AB - The authors investigated habituation of the eye-blink component of the startle reflex to repeated affectively neutral tactile and auditory stimuli in nine subjects with posttraumatic stress disorder and nine controls. Each group showed rapid habituation in both tactile and auditory modalities. PMID- 2521075 TI - Interictal behavior syndrome in temporal lobe epilepsy: the views of three experts. PMID- 2521076 TI - DSM-IV, continued. PMID- 2521077 TI - Brain circulation in mental disorders. PMID- 2521078 TI - Neuroleptic malignant syndrome associated with basal ganglia hemorrhage. PMID- 2521079 TI - Return of sense of taste with fluphenazine. PMID- 2521080 TI - Pathogenesis of obsessive-compulsive disorder. PMID- 2521081 TI - Identification of mamillary body atrophy in Korsakoff's syndrome using magnetic resonance imaging. PMID- 2521082 TI - Neuropsychological and biomedical assessment of depression-dementia syndromes. AB - Evaluating the clinical significance of cognitive dysfunction in patients who exhibit signs of both depression and dementia is one of the more formidable challenges in psychiatry. This article reviews cognitive dysfunction associated with depression, the concept of "pseudodementia," and the syndromal phenomenology of coexisting depression and Alzheimer's-type dementia. The state of the art in neuropsychologic, electroencephalographic, metabolic, and neuroradiographic techniques for evaluating dementia and depression syndromes will be discussed, as will implications for the treatment of such patients. PMID- 2521083 TI - When patients ask ... what is neuropsychiatry? PMID- 2521084 TI - Predicting mortality in mixed depression and dementia using EEG sleep variables. AB - The authors report a study of electroencephalographic (EEG) sleep predictors of two-year mortality in 26 elderly patients with mixed symptoms of depression and cognitive impairment. Patients who had died by two-year follow-up were characterized by significantly longer rapid eye movement (REM) sleep latencies at baseline, less robust REM sleep rebound following all-night sleep deprivation, and baseline apnea-hypopnea indexes greater than 3. Logistic regression analysis using the apnea-hypopnea index value and REM latency correctly predicted 77% of survivors and non-survivors. Survival time following initial measurements was significantly correlated with REM sleep time (r = 0.78, p less than .02) and duration of first REM sleep period (r = 0.75, p less than .02). The authors speculate that changes in these predictor variables may indicate impairment in the cholinergic control of cognitive function, REM sleep, and respiratory function. PMID- 2521085 TI - Electroencephalography during sleep of patients with panic disorder. AB - Sleep electroencephalograms (EEGs) of subjects with primary panic disorder were compared to those of normal controls matched for age and sex. Significant differences were found between patients and controls in sleep latency, sleep efficiency, and stage 2 sleep duration. No differences were found between the two groups in REM latency. Because depressed patients are known to have reduced latency to REM sleep, these data add support to the hypothesis that panic disorder and depression are distinct disorders. PMID- 2521086 TI - The effect of apomorphine on regional cerebral blood flow in schizophrenia. AB - A double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study of the effects of apomorphine on regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) during a prefrontal cortex activation task was undertaken to explore the role of dopamine on cortical function. The subjects were eight drug-free, chronically psychotic patients; six patients had schizophrenia. In each, apomorphine increased the relative prefrontal flow. The results suggest that enhanced prefrontal dopamine activity may reverse deficits in prefrontal cortex metabolism in schizophrenia. PMID- 2521087 TI - Abnormalities of the septum pellucidum in schizophrenia. AB - The authors present two cases of schizophrenia in young males who have malformations of the septum pellucidum, a thin sheet of cells and fibers located in the midline of the brain that separates the lateral ventricles. These cases are discussed in the context of newly proposed neurodevelopmental models of schizophrenia. PMID- 2521088 TI - Axonal counts of the corpus callosum of schizophrenic patients. AB - This study attempted to identify microscopic correlates to the structural abnormalities reported in the corpus callosum of schizophrenic patients. Sections of the genu, body, and splenium of the corpus callosum were taken from formalin fixed brains of deceased patients with schizophrenia and nonschizophrenic control subjects. Photomicrographs of stained tissue were projected, and nerve fibers were counted. There were no significant differences (p greater than 0.4) in axonal counts between schizophrenic and control patients for any of the sites sampled. Our results suggest that morphometric abnormalities of the corpus callosum of schizophrenic patients, if present, are not the consequence of a primary process within this structure. PMID- 2521089 TI - Reassessment of state hospital patients diagnosed with schizophrenia. AB - Schizophrenic patients in long-term care programs may not have been carefully diagnosed according to current criteria. As part of a clinical reassessment program at a state hospital, the author randomly assessed 72 patients who carried a diagnosis of schizophrenia. The diagnosis of schizophrenia by DSM-III-R criteria was confirmed in 45 patients. Various organic disorders were diagnosed in seven patients. Four patients had bipolar affective disorder, manic; one patient had schizoaffective disorder, depressed; one patient had a substance use disorder; and two had primary mental retardation or pervasive developmental disorder. Twelve patients had unclear or atypical syndromes. PMID- 2521090 TI - Causes of organic mood disorder. AB - A retrospective review of the records of 755 patients seen by a psychiatric consultation-liaison service in a general hospital was performed. The authors found that 87% of manic patients and 38% of depressed patients had a diagnosis of organic mood disorder. The most frequent precipitants of mania were corticosteroids, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, and temporolimbic epilepsy. The most frequent precipitants of depression were stroke, Parkinson's disease, and HIV infection. PMID- 2521091 TI - Brain iron in progressive supranuclear palsy: clinical, magnetic resonance imaging, and neuropathological findings. AB - A patient with progressive supranuclear palsy demonstrated a region-specific decrease in T2 signal during high-field-strength brain magnetic resonance imaging. At autopsy the T2-signal hypointensity was found to correspond topographically to increased deposition of ferric iron. The potential clinical, radiologic, and pathophysiologic implications of these findings are discussed. PMID- 2521092 TI - Correlation of severity of panic disorder and neuroanatomical changes on magnetic resonance imaging. AB - Thirty consecutive lactate-sensitive panic disorder patients were studied with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to investigate the relationship between temporal lobe abnormalities and panic disorder. Neuroanatomical abnormalities, most involving the right temporal lobe, were found in 43% of patients, compared with 10% of the control subjects. Patients with temporal lobe abnormalities were significantly younger at the onset of panic disorder and had more panic attacks compared with patients with normal MRI scans (p less than .05). These results suggest that panic disorder could be secondary to temporal lobe dysfunctions and that panic disorder patients with abnormal MRIs could have a worse prognosis than those with normal MRIs and would require long-term pharmacological treatment. PMID- 2521093 TI - Emotional behavior after a Wada test in a patient with secondary mania. AB - Soon after treatment of a right basotemporal vascular malformation using an embolization procedure, a 25-year-old patient developed an acute episode of mania. Two months later the patient was still manic, and a second embolization was scheduled. Before it was conducted, a Wada test was carried out to determine speech dominance. No changes in manic symptoms were observed after amytal injections into the left middle cerebral, right frontopolar, or right middle cerebral arteries. This finding suggests that secondary mania may not be the result of "release" of the left hemisphere following a right hemisphere lesion but instead may be related to specific disturbances within the right hemisphere. PMID- 2521094 TI - Epilepsy and violence: evidence for a neuropsychotic-aggressive syndrome. PMID- 2521095 TI - The nature and management of aggression in epilepsy. AB - Minor episodes of aggressive behavior are relatively common in some populations of patients with epilepsy. However, they are probably no more common than in populations who are socially disadvantaged or who have brain damage. The confusion that commonly follows seizures can lead to apparently aggressive behavior. Rarely, the seizure itself may lead to directed aggression; very rarely does it lead to murderous attacks. Although post-ictal psychotic aggression is usually not severe, when it is driven by prominent delusions and hallucinations, it can result in self-destructive acts or serious violence. Clearly, however, it is quite unfair to globally classify epileptics as aggressive, and the time has come to abandon this stereotype. PMID- 2521096 TI - Localized neuropsychiatric symptoms of an intracranial cyst. PMID- 2521097 TI - Cognitive side effects of lithium in closed head injury. PMID- 2521098 TI - Surgery for Parkinson's disease: is the graft really necessary? PMID- 2521099 TI - Adult-onset tourettism following closed head injury. PMID- 2521101 TI - Group interventions to support family caregivers: a review and analysis. AB - A review of 29 evaluative studies published through 1987 reveals that no clear link has yet been established between participants' satisfaction and such other important outcomes for caregivers as improving coping skills, preventing psychological disturbances, increasing caregiver support systems, or improving caregivers' ability to care for themselves. PMID- 2521100 TI - Bullet in the brain: a case of organic psychosis. PMID- 2521102 TI - Prevalence of depression in family caregivers. AB - Family caregivers who sought help to increase their coping skills (N = 158) and caregivers who volunteered for a longitudinal study of Alzheimer's disease (N = 58) were screened for depression. Among help-seekers, 46% had depression according to Research Diagnostic Criteria (RDC), but among non-help-seekers, only 18% met this criterion. In general, women were more depressed than men, but no major differences in the extent of depression were found in those who cared for more impaired persons. PMID- 2521103 TI - The effects of alternative support strategies on family caregiving. AB - Family units (N = 541) of impaired elderly persons and caregivers were randomly assigned to a control group or one of five treatment groups eligible for a variety of respite or educational services. After 12 months of service eligibility, caregivers of elderly persons remaining in the community reported lower levels of subjective burden. Services appeared to delay nursing home placement among families with adult child caregivers, but encouraged placement by spouse caregivers. PMID- 2521104 TI - The effectiveness of peer-led and professionally led groups to support family caregivers. AB - Participants in both professionally led and peer-led groups experienced significant improvements in psychological functioning, increases in informal support networks, and positive personal changes in handling of the caregiving role when compared with control participants. Professionally led groups produced the greatest improvement in psychological functioning, and peer-led groups produced the greatest increases in informal support networks. PMID- 2521105 TI - The effect of a support and education program on stress and burden among family caregivers to frail elderly persons. AB - An eight-week professionally guided caregiver support group program was found to produce statistically significant reductions in anxiety, depression, and sense of burden among family caregivers to frail elderly persons living in the community. Effects were weaker four months after the intervention ended than immediately after, but reductions in anxiety and depression were still evident. PMID- 2521106 TI - Group intervention for dementia family caregivers: a longitudinal perspective. AB - Reported here are longitudinal follow-up data from caregivers who participated in an experimental study of group intervention for dementia caregivers. Methodological and clinical issues evident from this long-term follow-up include differential attrition from treatment, issues in selection of participants, and need for measures appropriate to long-term outcome. PMID- 2521107 TI - Current and future direction in family caregiving research. AB - The Symposium concludes with suggested ways to improve measurement of treatment effects in studies of group interventions for family caregivers: better specification of goals and outcomes, development of measures less likely to have floor and ceiling effects, and determination of whether specific treatment processes have been implemented and goals attained. Samples too heterogeneous on key variables also make identification of change more difficult. PMID- 2521108 TI - The hazards of cognitive aging. AB - After a review of findings from the Seattle Longitudinal Study of adult cognitive development, this paper discusses the application of event history analysis, a technique pioneered by sociologists, to data involving changes of states in individual behavior related to human aging. The dependent variable of interest for psychologists and other developmentalists should be the age (calendar or functional) at which the event occurs rather than its index in historical time. Using occurrence of significant decline in cognitive abilities as an exemplar, hazard functions are presented that allow the assessment of risk for future decline, as well as the prediction of the calendar age when individuals can expect cognitive decline under alternative assumptions. PMID- 2521109 TI - Challenges of aging in tomorrow's world: will gerontology grow, stagnate, or change? AB - What impact will social, economic, and political trends have over the next decade on services, policies, and research for the elderly? The author predicts that declining confidence in Social Security, questioning of the public's responsibility for the elderly, organization proliferation, anticipated labor shortages, and a trend to reengage in, rather than retire from, mainstream society will all lead to an emphasis on the elderly's productive potential and a "common human need" policy in the aging field. PMID- 2521111 TI - Psychological well-being of elderly board and care home residents. AB - This paper examines the effect of several social and physical environmental features of small unregulated board and care homes on the psychological well being of elderly residents. Data were collected from operators (N = 177) and residents (N = 285) of board and care homes in five counties in Ohio. The social aspects of the environment such as peer relationships had a more significant impact on resident's psychological well-being than aspects of the physical environment. PMID- 2521110 TI - Factors contributing to the hospitalization of nursing home residents. AB - This anthropological study describes and analyzes the clinical and social structural factors contributing to the hospitalization of nursing home residents. In 48.2% of the cases, hospitalization could have been avoided. Factors such as an insufficient number of adequately trained nursing staff, the inability of nursing staff to administer and monitor intravenous therapy, lack of diagnostic services, and pressure for transfer from the staff and family contributed to hospitalization. In the United States each year, an estimated 216,000 nursing home residents who are hospitalized might be treated in the nursing home, for a cost savings of $942,763,530. PMID- 2521112 TI - Social relationships, psychosocial adaptation, and intrainstitutional relocation of elderly men. AB - The intrainstitutional relocation of 40 men aged 53 to 91 years was studied in relation to social integration, and to behavioral and self-report measures of psychosocial adaptation. In both longitudinal and time-lag analyses of pre- and postrelocation data, relocated men scored lower on the attitude toward aging dimension (PGC Morale Scale, Lawton, 1975), had fewer friends, and evidenced better communication behavior (p less than .01) than did unrelocated men. The more sociable men showed more change after relocation than did men who were less sociable. PMID- 2521113 TI - Maximizing the functional status of geriatric patients in an acute community hospital setting. AB - Patients (n = 103) admitted to an inpatient geriatric care unit focusing on restoration of functional status were compared to similar patients (n = 75) admitted to a control-unit. Study unit patients showed significantly greater improvement in basic functional capabilities from admission to discharge than did control-unit patients. A mixed picture evolved when length of stay and total charges of study and control-unit patient were compared by diagnostic-related groups. PMID- 2521114 TI - Caregiving daughters and their local siblings: perceptions, strains, and interactions. AB - Daughters who are principal caregivers to disabled elderly mothers are compared with their geographically proximate sisters and brothers as to the amount of help each group provides, the effects of care they experience, and the problems and benefits of the siblings' interactions about the caregiving situations. Caregivers reported the most and brothers the least service provision and strain; sisters fell in between, and also equaled caregivers in strain from intersibling problems. Negative intersibling interactions are associated with less emotional closeness in the families and the mothers' greater care needs. PMID- 2521115 TI - Determinants of knowledge of services to the elderly: are strong ties enabling or inhibiting. AB - This research examined elderly people's social network ties and their awareness of services available to them. For this sample of 1,224 persons aged 60 years or older, having nonkin advisers, membership in clubs, or contacts with other community agencies and availability of transportation, education, and moderate size kin networks predicted service awareness. Lack of available kin, the presence of large kin networks, having kin confidants, and being old, poor, and female, or black inhibited service awareness. PMID- 2521116 TI - Care of elderly people in Hungary today. AB - Based on library research and international field work, we describe local social services for elderly people in Hungary. Although a broad range of benefits are available there, local services are needed to supplement often inadequate universal entitlements. Hungary's current economic and political situation is unfavorable to improving the benefit system. To illuminate differences among socialist countries in Eastern Europe, we recommend comparisons with Poland. PMID- 2521117 TI - Ethnicity of socioeconomic status? Health differences between elder Alaska Natives and whites. AB - We investigated self-reported health difference between elderly Alaska Natives and whites, and attempted to distinguish the effects of socioeconomic factors from other facets of ethnicity, upon health and physical well-being. Results indicate that elderly Alaska Natives suffer from a greater variety of impairments than do whites. Health differences disappear, however, in multivariate analyses that control for socioeconomic factors. Income, education, gender, and age appear to be more important determinants of health status among the elderly than ethnicity, per se. PMID- 2521118 TI - Day care for persons with dementia: the impact of the physical environment on staff stress and quality of care. AB - This study considers the impact of the physical environment on work-related stress and quality of care in a day care center that integrates demented people and other frail elderly persons. The researcher examined positive and negative differences before and after the program moved to a new, improved facility. Implications for facility design and other program characteristics are discussed. PMID- 2521120 TI - The sub-culture of the nursing home aide. PMID- 2521119 TI - A model to nationally replicate a locally successful rural family caregiver program: the Volunteer Information Provider Program. AB - A local program can be successfully transplanted beyond state lines if it contains the seeds for its own dissemination and replication. One such program, the Volunteer Information Provider Program (VIPP), was first piloted in Missouri and then disseminated to 20 states. The strategy, steps taken, and key elements of this successful model are delineated. The VIPP, a rural family caregiver program, was utilized, in just the dissemination phase, by 657 professionals and volunteers to aid 7,213 rural family caregivers across the United States. PMID- 2521121 TI - Unfinished business may make poor caregivers. PMID- 2521122 TI - Coughing and laryngospasm with the laryngeal mask. PMID- 2521123 TI - Chronic multiple pulmonary emboli. Regional response of the bronchial circulation. AB - In pulmonary embolism, the bronchial circulation can dramatically increase perfusion to the lung and prevent infarction. The physiology of this response is incompletely understood. The authors studied the regional changes in the bronchial circulation in an animal model after multiple chronic pulmonary emboli to the periphery of one lung. The gross anatomy of the bronchial circulation was studied using Batson's solution to produce vascular casts of the pulmonary and bronchial circulations. These casts were prepared in a normal sheep and in a sheep with multiple chronic microemboli in the periphery of one lung. The normal bronchial arteries are visible as threadlike structures covering the surface of the tracheobronchial tree with ramifications extending to the lung periphery. In a sheep with multiple chronic microemboli, the bronchial arteries supply the pulmonary parenchyma deprived of pulmonary arterial flow. The bronchial arteries following pulmonary arterial embolization markedly dilate and are serpentine. PMID- 2521124 TI - Femoral vein thrombosis following percutaneous placement of the Greenfield filter. AB - Following percutaneous insertion of the Greenfield inferior vena cava filter via the femoral route, patients were evaluated for femoral vein thrombosis by real time ultrasound or Duplex sonography. In 23 patients (24 veins) the femoral vein was dilated with an 8-mm (24 F) angioplasty balloon catheter. Eight of 24 common femoral veins were thrombosed (33%). These findings indicate that thrombosis is a significant complication of percutaneous filter insertion. Dilation was performed in 20 patients (22 veins) with a 9-mm (27 F) balloon catheter; only three veins were thrombosed (14%). Over-dilation of the femoral vein to 27 F to accommodate the 24 F sheath/dilator set may decrease the incidence of thrombosis. PMID- 2521125 TI - A canine model of controlled thrombotic vascular occlusion. AB - The authors developed a reproducible canine model of arterial thrombotic occlusion. Operative isolation and occlusion of the external iliac arteries (EIA) were combined with balloon de-endothelialization and thrombin injection to induce bilateral thrombosis in 13 dogs. After three to nine days, 26 of 26 vessels contained isolated, discrete thrombi. Arterial blood flow reconstituted at the superficial/deep femoral artery bifurcation in 100% of cases, which limited the distal extent of thrombosis. Arterial dimensions measured intraoperatively showed thrombus volumes to be (mean +/- SD) 1332.1 +/- 243.1 mm3 (right) and 1335.9 +/- 246.8 mm3 (left). A 2-mm hot tip probe powered by an Argon laser was used to recanalize the occlusion in four vessels. Thrombo-ablation volumes accomplished by a single pass of the laser probe averaged 172 +/- 19.7 mm3 per vessel yielding thrombo-ablation energies between 2.6 and 3.5 J/mm3. Quantification of thrombi and simultaneous monitoring of both occluded segments by aortography as well as the large size of the EIA are advantages of this model, which is recommended for studies of thrombotic vascular occlusive disease. PMID- 2521127 TI - Interactive, mathematical, and sequential consultative methods in diagnosing renal masses on excretory urograms. AB - Using the clinical setting of diagnosing renal masses on excretory urograms, we compared the diagnostic efficacy and costs resulting from different consultative methods. These included face-to-face interactive consultation, mathematical combination of a fixed number of radiologists' confidence judgments, and computerized sequential decision making. This last method mathematically combines a variable number of individual judgments into an aggregate diagnosis based on diagnostic certainty. Six radiologists interpreted 42 proven urograms individually, with face-to-face consultation for selected cases, and interactively in groups of three. Individual diagnostic probability estimations were mathematically combined for the mathematical and sequential models. All models of consultation resulted in both higher diagnostic accuracy and lower costs than individual radiologists interpreting urograms alone. While the sequential model provided the highest diagnostic efficacy, it was only slightly more accurate than the other models tested. Radiologists interactively consulting on cases they considered difficult was the least costly method, approximating the projected costs of sequential decision making. Interactive consultation among radiologists is a cost-effective practice; sequential decision-making is a promising technique for improving diagnostic efficacy and reducing costs, and further evaluation is warranted. PMID- 2521126 TI - Microcholangiography. Normal microbiliary system and its alteration after extrahepatic bile duct obstruction. AB - The authors used microcholangiography to demonstrate the feasibility of the technique and the features of the normal and the obstructed biliary systems. Furthermore, they attempted to explain the pathophysiology of cholangiography related septicemia with this technique. Extrahepatic bile ducts (EHBD) of 40 rabbits were ligated, and microcholangiography was carried out with infusion of barium suspension immediately as well as one, three, and five days after ligation. Microradiographic technique was used and the findings were correlated with histopathologic features. The intrahepatic microbiliary system such as interlobular bile ducts and ductules were well visualized. After EHBD ligation, ductules were tortuously dilated. The histologically observed ductular proliferation in many hepatobiliary diseases could be attributed in part to the tortuosity of bile ductules, particularly when biliary obstruction is present. Regurgitation of barium into hepatic sinusoids was demonstrated in 36 rabbits (90%) and probably was caused by rupture of interlobular bile ducts and ductules. PMID- 2521128 TI - Penetration of vascular contrast media into brain tissue and cerebrospinal fluid. An experimental study in rats. AB - Recent studies suggest that intravenously administered contrast media (CM) penetrate into cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and the concentration of CM in CSF increases significantly following acetazolamide or probenecid pretreatment. However, corresponding levels of CM in brain tissue and extracellular fluid (ECF) have not been reported. Adult anesthetized rats were injected intravenously with sodium/meglumine diatrizoate and iohexol. The control group received no pretreatment, and the pretreated group received acetazolamide and probenecid before the CM. The amount of each contrast agent was measured in brain tissue and in CSF by high performance liquid chromatography. Pretreated animals attained significantly higher CSF concentrations of diatrizoate and iohexol than control animals. However, tissue ECF concentrations in pretreated animals were not significantly different than in control animals for either agent. The results are consistent with the idea that a flushing action of CSF helps to remove CM from the brain ECF. PMID- 2521129 TI - Impact of postprocessing on the detection of simulated pulmonary nodules with digital radiography. AB - The authors compared the impact of five postprocessing algorithms on diagnostic performance in the detection of simulated pulmonary nodules on storage phosphor based digital chest radiographs. Tissue equivalent paraffin nodules (0.5-2.5 cm diameter) were randomly positioned over the chest of a normal volunteer. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis of a total of 2500 observations by five readers indicated that the default unenhanced image having the appearance of a conventional chest radiograph (ROC area = 0.87 +/- 0.05) was as good as an image with moderate enhancement of medium frequencies (ROC area = 0.85 +/- 0.03), an image with reversed gray scale polarity (ROC area = 0.84 +/- 0.02), an image with reversed gray scale and moderate enhancement of medium frequencies (ROC area = 0.87 +/- 0.03), and an image with a linear rather than a sigmoid gradation curve and incorporating moderate enhancement of medium frequencies (ROC area = 0.87 +/- 0.03). The authors conclude that the specific algorithms they tested had no effect on the detection of pulmonary nodules. PMID- 2521130 TI - Searching for lung nodules. Visual dwell indicates locations of false-positive and false-negative decisions. AB - Eye position recordings made while radiologists searched chest images for lung nodules showed that regions falsely reported positive or suspicious received prolonged visual attention. Correlation of regional fixation dwell time with independent ratings of image features indicated that more than 90% of false positive decisions were caused by some perturbation in the image that aroused the suspicion of the viewer. The remainder apparently arose from within the viewer. Most missed nodules (false-negative reports) also received prolonged visual attention, implying an active decision not to perceive a nodule. The data are interpreted to show that roughly one task-related decision is made during each second of scanning a radiograph. This departs from the central assumption of the traditional signal-detection model based upon one decision per image. PMID- 2521131 TI - The incidence of spontaneous ultrasonic contrast in abdominal aortic aneurysms. PMID- 2521132 TI - The changing role of radiation therapy in the treatment of primary breast cancer. AB - The role of radiation in the management of breast cancer has seen extraordinary change in the past 15 years. The primary treatment of early breast cancer once required mastectomy. Today, a local tumor excision followed by postoperative radiation is an established alternative of equal efficacy. Postoperative chest wall and/or lymphatic irradiation was once nearly routine following mastectomy; later, as adjuvant chemotherapy came into widespread use, its usage declined markedly. Today however, evidence is mounting that the addition of postoperative radiation to adjuvant chemotherapy and surgery can improve local-regional control and survival in selected subsets of these patients. In unresectable breast cancer, radiation was once the primary modality of treatment. Today it is part of a combined modality approach attempting to reduce these patients' high rates of both distant and local-regional failure. PMID- 2521133 TI - Master's degree program in radiological sciences. PMID- 2521134 TI - The chief residency in radiology. Results of a survey of A3CR2 members. AB - Detailed questionnaires were sent to the 192 members of the American Association of Academic Chief Residents in Radiology (A3CR2) to learn about the logistics of chief resident selection, the responsibilities of the chief resident, the attitudes and perceptions of the chief resident about his or her position, and suggestions for improving the chief residency. Completed questionnaires were returned by 149 (78%) chief residents from 111 different residency programs. The results show that radiology residents have a greater voice in selecting their chief residents than in the past. The number and types of responsibilities given to the chief resident at different institutions vary considerably. Although only 62% of respondents felt that being chief resident was worth their time and effort, 88% would accept the position again. The most commonly voiced suggestion was for greater input from the chief resident during the formulation of policies that affect the residents. Based on these results and a review of previous reports about the chief residency in other specialties, several proposals are offered for increasing the effectiveness of the radiology chief residency. PMID- 2521135 TI - The roles of film in an increasingly computerized world. PMID- 2521136 TI - Hanging loose. PMID- 2521137 TI - Direct and indirect techniques for free thyroxin compared in patients with nonthyroidal illness. II. Effect of prealbumin, albumin, and thyroxin-binding globulin. AB - We studied the correlation of thyroxin (T4)-binding proteins with the apparent free T4 (FT4) in 101 patients with nonthyroidal illness (NTI). Most patients (95%) were seriously ill at the time of blood collection. Concentrations of T4 binding prealbumin (transthyretin), albumin, and T4-binding globulin (TBG) often were low in the sera of these patients. Albumin was the most frequently subnormal, TBG the least. FT4 in serum was determined by five methods represented in 16 different assays. With few exceptions, analog (one-step) FT4 RIAs--both the binding-rate-based RIA and the related FT4 indices (calculated from triiodothyronine-macroaggregated albumin uptake and total T4)--and T4/TBG ratios correlated positively and usually highly significantly (P less than 0.01) with concentrations of prealbumin, albumin, and TBG. Equilibrium dialysis values for FT4 did not correlate with prealbumin concentrations but showed a weakly (P less than 0.03) positive association with albumin and a highly significant (P less than 0.002) positive correlation with TBG. Of the three two-step FT4 RIAs tested, the only statistically significant but weakly (P less than 0.02) positive correlation with T4-binding proteins was between Spiria FT4 and TBG. Thus, in these NTI patients, FT4 estimates vary with methodology and, to a lesser extent, with the particular assay used. The results from two-step FT4 RIAs are least associated with binding protein concentrations. PMID- 2521139 TI - Reply to needle-stick injuries. PMID- 2521138 TI - QALYs: are they enough? A health economist's perspective. AB - John Rawles's criticism of QALYs are seen as being both imprecise and largely unhelpful. This paper accepts that there are problems in both QALYs themselves and in the current decision-making processes with which they seek to help. The QALY pliers tend to play down the former and the QALY knockers the latter. It is suggested that theories (regret theory and prospect theory) other than expected utility theory, which is normally seen as the basis for QALYs, may provide better approaches to measuring health service outputs. Thus equity, information and decision-making per se are not handled as well in the expected utility QALYs as they could be. Developing better QALYs, with qualifications, is the goal. PMID- 2521140 TI - New Year resolutions for the busy nurse! PMID- 2521141 TI - Education matters. PMID- 2521142 TI - Immunization. To the point. PMID- 2521143 TI - Cancer care: Age old disease. PMID- 2521144 TI - More questions than answers. PMID- 2521146 TI - Crisis in self worth. PMID- 2521145 TI - Computed tomography after skull base resection. AB - We have obtained serial CT scans in the evaluation and follow-up of 80 patients with lesions of the skull base. CT scanning has been useful for assessment of recurrence in this group of patients, many of whom underwent complex ablative and reconstructive procedures. PMID- 2521148 TI - Have knowledge, will travel. PMID- 2521147 TI - Bandaging techniques: spoilt for choice? PMID- 2521149 TI - Health education. Health eating for children. PMID- 2521150 TI - Inside politics. PMID- 2521151 TI - Mental health: working for assertion. PMID- 2521153 TI - GI training: a model for the future? PMID- 2521152 TI - Green care. Ensuring safe practice. PMID- 2521154 TI - Team player. Interview by Tim Rice. PMID- 2521155 TI - Enrolled nurses: your questions answered. PMID- 2521157 TI - Programmed instruction revisited: a solution to infection control inservice education. AB - Recent standards established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regarding protection against occupational exposure to hepatitis B virus (HBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) presents a challenge to staff development and inservice educators to provide the necessary education and training in light of the 24-hour operation of a hospital, the nursing shortage, and the use of part-time personnel. In order to provide initial and periodic infection control programs for nursing personnel, a self-managed module in the form of a programmed unit of instruction (PUI) was developed and tested to determine its effectiveness and efficiency for teaching the basic principles of infection control to inservice nurses. Results of the study indicated that nurses who took a PUI in the basic principles of infection control scored higher on posttests than those who attended a lecture, regardless of their pretest scores, educational level, and experience (p less than .0001). PMID- 2521156 TI - Growth hormone response induced by synthetic human growth hormone-releasing factor (1-44) in healthy dogs. AB - The growth hormone (GH) secretory response to varying doses (1, 5 and 25 micrograms/kg) of intravenous (i.v.) human GH releasing factor (GRF) (1-44) was measured in four, 16-month-old female dogs and compared to the GH response to placebo (vehicle solubilizing GRF) and standard clonidine test (10 micrograms/kg i.v.). The three doses of GRF had no apparent clinical side effects and were capable of eliciting a rapid increase in the mean plasma GH level. The rise in plasma GH occurred within 5 minutes with a peak response at 15-30 minutes. However inter-subject variability of the GH response was large in terms of magnitude and time course. By analysis of the areas under the response curves it was shown that GRF 1-44 was as effective in stimulating GH release as clonidine and that a dose of 1 microgram/kg GRF 1-44 could be a good choice for use as a standard test dose in the dog. PMID- 2521158 TI - Recruitment and retention: a review of data relating to the nursing workforce. PMID- 2521159 TI - Magnetic resonance imaging of the facial nerve. AB - Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the facial nerve was evaluated by studying normal volunteers and patients with diseases of the facial nerve with a 0.3 Tesla permanent-magnet MRI system with special surface coils. The normal MR images were correlated with the anatomy of thin cryosection specimens of fresh cadavers. The seventh nerve was followed from its nucleus in the brainstem through the temporal bone to the parotid gland bed. The entire labyrinth and tympanic portions, as well as the geniculate ganglion, could be shown with appropriate scan planes. Examples of brainstem diseases affecting the facial nerve and nucleus, facial neuromas, parotid tumors involving the facial nerve, and other diseases were studied. MRI is a technique that allows unique evaluation of the entire course of the facial nerve. It produces superior images of the facial nerve with high contrast resolution. Unlike computed tomography, there is no beam-hardening artifact from the temporal bone or exposure to ionizing radiation and contrast agents. MRI also allows visualization of the main trunks of the facial nerve in the parotid bed not possible with any other imaging technique. PMID- 2521160 TI - Swelling of cartilage and expansion of the collagen network. PMID- 2521161 TI - Nursing managers face restructuring delays. PMID- 2521162 TI - Nursing abroad. Wizard in Oz? PMID- 2521163 TI - How to cope with change. Part 1. PMID- 2521164 TI - Toxocariasis: care and complications. PMID- 2521165 TI - Education: developing a foundation unit. PMID- 2521166 TI - Transnasal transseptal endoscopic repair of sphenoidal cerebral spinal fluid fistula. PMID- 2521167 TI - Student and preceptor negotiated experience. PMID- 2521168 TI - The right to nurse. PMID- 2521169 TI - How are your patients, sister? PMID- 2521170 TI - Content in the nursing curriculum. PMID- 2521171 TI - A cautionary tale. PMID- 2521172 TI - Education and experience. PMID- 2521173 TI - Student loans: a looming deterrent. Interview by Jean Gray. PMID- 2521174 TI - Recent advances in diabetes mellitus. PMID- 2521176 TI - Proceedings of the Fourth International Conference on Water and Ions in Biological Systems. Bucharest, Romania, May 24-28, 1987. PMID- 2521175 TI - [The effects of moxibustion at "zusanli" point on serum endocrine hormones of rats]. AB - The effects of moxibustion at "Zusanli" acupoint on serum endocrine hormones of male Wistar rats were studied by measured serum values of TSH, T3, T4, FSH, LH, testosterone and insulin with radioimmunoassay, 40 male rats were randomly divided into two groups, experiment group and control group, 20 rats each group. In the experiment group, the animals were given a moxibustion at "Zusanli" acupoints of both sides of rats 8:00-9:00 am, 10 min/side per day for 7 days. The control group was given nothing. All of both groups were killed and got serum at same time. The results indicate that the moxibustion can increase significantly serum value of insulin (p less than 0.01) and decrease prominently serum value of T4 (p less than 0.01), but no marked difference was found in FSH, LH, testosterone, TSH and T3. It is suggest that the raise of insulin may have relations with the effects of the moxibustion on neuro-endocrine system and improving microcirculation of pancreas gland, and that the drop of T4 may be caused by the moxibustion to inhibit the function of thyroid gland. PMID- 2521178 TI - HBsAg carrier infants with serum anti-HBc negativity. AB - A total of 128 HBsAg carrier infants born to HBeAg-positive HBsAg carrier mothers were tested for serum HBsAg, HBeAg, hepatitis B virus DNA and anti-HBc. Ninety three of them had received hepatitis B vaccination. Anti-HBc had been found to be negative in sera of 12 infants who were HBsAg, HBeAg and hepatitis B virus DNA positive during the follow-up period of 3 to 5 years. Liver damage, as measured by serum ALT levels, was found to be normal among the 12 HBsAg carrier infants with serum anti-HBc negativity, whereas 39.7% of the 116 anti-HBc-positive HBsAg carrier infants had abnormal ALT levels during the follow-up period. Anti-HBe and anti-HBs also were not detected in sera of these anti-HBc-negative HBsAg carrier infants. Thus, HBsAg carrier infants with anti-HBc negativity probably result from immune incompetency of the hepatitis B virus antigens. PMID- 2521177 TI - Inhibition of glycinamide ribonucleotide formyltransferase and other folate enzymes by homofolate polyglutamates in human lymphoma and murine leukemia cell extracts. AB - In order to determine the biochemical basis for the cytotoxicity of homofolates, poly-gamma-glutamyl derivatives of homofolate (HPteGlu) and tetrahydrohomofolate (H4HPteGlu) were synthesized and tested as inhibitors of glycinamide ribonucleotide formyltransferase (GARFT), aminoimidazolecarboxamide ribonucleotide formyltransferase (AICARFT), thymidylate synthase, and serine hydroxymethyltransferase (SHMT) in extracts of Manca human lymphoma and L1210 murine leukemia cells. The most striking inhibitions are that of GARFT by (6R,S) H4HPteGlu4-6 with IC50 values from 1.3 to 0.3 microM. Both diastereomers, (6R) H4HPteGlu6 and (6S)-H4HPteGlu6, inhibit GARFT activity. In Manca cell extracts, the (6S) form is more potent than the (6R) form whereas in the murine system the reverse is true. The (6R,S)-H4HPteGlu polyglutamates are weak inhibitors of human AICARFT (IC50, 6-10 microM). Polyglutamates of HPteGlu, however, are more inhibitory to AICARFT, with HPteGlu4-6 having IC50 values close to 2 microM. Polyglutamates of HPteGlu and of H4HPteGlu are weaker inhibitors of thymidylate synthase (IC50, 8 microM for HPteGlu5-6 and greater than 20 microM for H4HPteGlu1 5). Polyglutamates of HPteGlu and of H4HPteGlu are poor inhibitors of SHMT (IC50, greater than 20 microM). Manca cell growth is inhibited 50% by HPteGlu and (6R,S) 5-methyl-H4HPteGlu at 6 and 8 microM, respectively. Both of these effects are reversed by 0.1 mM inosine. Trimetrexate at a subinhibitory concentration, 10 nM, antagonizes growth inhibition by HPteGlu, raising the IC50 from 6 to 64 microM, but enhances inhibition by (6R,S)-5-methyl-H4HPteGlu, lowering the IC50 from 8 to 5 microM. Our results support the view that homofolates become toxic after conversion to H4HPteGlu polyglutamates which block GARFT, a step in purine biosynthesis. PMID- 2521179 TI - Lymphocyte vaccination against experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis: evaluation of vaccination protocols. AB - Repeated vaccination with encephalitogenic but not other T cell lines could effect marked resistance to 'active' experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) induced by injection of GP-BP in adjuvant. Partial resistance to active EAE was observed in rats recovered from 'passive' line-mediated EAE and in rats vaccinated with T cells attenuated by irradiation or ganglioside treatment. However, no resistance was observed in animals given low doses of activated encephalitogenic T cells. Treatment with hydrostatic pressure alone was found to be ineffective as a means of attenuation, and vaccination with pressure-treated encephalitogenic T cells actually induced mild signs of EAE. However, vaccination with cells that were first pressure treated and then irradiated prevented both clinical and histologic signs of active EAE. In contrast, protection against passive EAE appeared to be clonotypic. Lymphocyte vaccination induced delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) reactions against autologous T cells, mostly to shared antigens, demonstrating the immunogenicity of multiple antigens on the vaccinating cells. PMID- 2521181 TI - Hydrodynamic molecular weight of solubilized cholinergic synaptic vesicle glycoprotein ATPase. AB - The Torpedo californica electric organ synaptic vesicle glycoprotein ATPase was solubilized with octaethyleneglycoldodecyl ether and stabilized with phosphatidylserine. The complex was analyzed by size exclusion chromatography and band sedimentation velocity ultracentrifugation in water/glycerol and deuterium oxide/glycerol density gradients. The complex was found to have a Stokes' radius of 79 +/- 0.7 A, a sedimentation velocity coefficient at 20 degrees C in water of 6.8 +/- 0.2S, a partial specific volume of 0.81 +/- 0.01 cm3/g, and a frictional coefficient of 1.6. The molecular weight of the solubilized complex was calculated to be 320,000 +/- 7,000 and that of the protein 210,000 +/- 9,000. The relationship of this latter value to the major transport ATPase types is discussed. PMID- 2521180 TI - Enzyme histochemistry of monocytes/macrophages: a study in a murine model of immune complex-mediated glomerulonephritis. AB - In a model of immune complex glomerulonephritis in BALB/c mice, cells of monocyte/macrophage lineage (M phi), identifiable by electron microscopy, infiltrate the glomerulus. In spite of this, no unequivocal nonspecific esterase activity can be demonstrated histochemically in the glomeruli. On the other hand, many mononuclear cells with strong acid phosphatase activity are consistently present. This observation is in line with other studies that have demonstrated the heterogeneity of enzyme profiles in different M phi populations. Despite the wide acceptance of nonspecific esterases as markers for M phi, the present study indicates that exclusive reliance on a single marker in investigating the participation of M phi in a pathological process can lead to erroneous conclusions. Use of multiple markers and preferably multiple investigative modalities is recommended. PMID- 2521182 TI - Determination of changes in the phosphorylation state of the neuron-specific protein kinase C substrate B-50 (GAP43) by quantitative immunoprecipitation. AB - To determine changes in the degree of phosphorylation of the protein kinase C substrate B-50 in vivo, a quantitative immunoprecipitation assay for B-50 (GAP43, F1, pp46) was developed. B-50 was phosphorylated in intact hippocampal slices with 32Pi or in synaptosomal plasma membranes with [gamma-32P]ATP. Phosphorylated B-50 was immunoprecipitated from slice homogenates or synaptosomal plasma membranes using polyclonal anti-B-50 antiserum. Proteins in the immunoprecipitate were separated by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, and the incorporation of 32P into B-50 was quantified by densitometric scanning of the autoradiogram. Only a single 48-kilodalton phosphoband was detectable in the immunoprecipitate, but this band was absent when preimmune serum was used. The B 50 immunoprecipitation assay was quantitative under the following condition chosen, as (1) recovery of purified 32P-labelled B-50 added to slice homogenates or synaptosomal plasma membranes was greater than 95%; and (2) modulation of B-50 phosphorylation in synaptosomal plasma membranes with adrenocorticotrophic hormone, polymyxin B, or purified protein kinase C in the presence of phorbol diester resulted in EC50 values identical to those obtained without immunoprecipitation. With this immunoprecipitation assay we found that treatment of hippocampal slices with 4 beta-phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate stimulated B-50 phosphorylation, whereas 4 alpha-phorbol 12,13-didecanoate was inactive. Thus, we conclude that the B-50 immunoprecipitation assay is suitable to monitor changes in B-50 phosphorylation in intact neuronal tissue. PMID- 2521183 TI - Carbachol-induced cosecretion of immunoreactive atrial natriuretic peptides with catecholamines from cultured bovine adrenal medullary cells. AB - The distribution and secretion of atrial natriuretic peptides (ANPs) were investigated in bovine adrenal medulla. (1) Cultured bovine adrenal medullary cells (2 x 10(6)/dish) contained 100.4 +/- 6.0 fmol of immunoreactive ANP (IR ANP) and 207.3 +/- 6.6 nmol of catecholamines as epinephrine plus norepinephrine. (2) Stimulation of nicotinic but not muscarinic acetylcholine receptors caused a cosecretion of IR-ANP and catecholamines corresponding to the ratio of IR-ANP to catecholamines in cultured bovine adrenal medullary cells. (3) Carbachol stimulated secretion of IR-ANP was dependent on the presence of extracellular Ca2+. (4) Chromaffin granules isolated from bovine adrenal medulla contained large amounts of IR-ANP and catecholamines, in the same ratio as did cultured adrenal medullary cells. (5) Reverse-phase HPLC analysis showed that both stored and secreted IR-ANP consisted of two components, which eluted at the position of ANP(99-126) or ANP(1-126). These results indicate that ANPs are stored as ANP(99 126) and ANP(1-126) in chromaffin granules, and are cosecreted in parallel with catecholamines in a Ca2+-dependent manner by the stimulation of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. PMID- 2521184 TI - Phase II trials of the serotonin antagonist GR38032F for the control of vomiting caused by cisplatin. AB - Three phase II studies of the serotonin antagonist GR38032F were conducted. In trial 1, 20 patients given initial chemotherapy with cisplatin at doses greater than or equal to 100 mg/m2 were randomized to receive three GR38032F doses (0.18 mg/kg) on an every-2-hour or every-4-hour schedule. In trial 2, eight similar patients were given three 0.04-mg/kg doses every 2 hours. In trial 3, 12 previously treated patients receiving cisplatin at 20-25 mg/m2 on 4 or 5 consecutive days each received three daily GR38032F doses (0.15 mg/kg) every 2 hours. In trial 1, 35% of the patients had no emesis [95% confidence interval (CI), 16%-58%] and 55% had one or two emetic episodes (95% CI, 32%-76%). Results were similar between the every-2-hour and every-4-hour schedules. In trial 2, only one of eight patients (13%) had no vomiting (95% CI, 1%-50%). In trial 3, in which previously treated patients were studied, complete control ranged from 75% on day 1 to 33% on day 3. Mild sedation, headache, and transient elevations of serum SGOT (AST) were observed. No extrapyramidal symptoms occurred. A dose of 0.15-0.18 mg/kg every 2 hours for three iv doses is recommended. Further comparison and combination studies of GR38032F are warranted. PMID- 2521185 TI - Functions of the two adenovirus early E1A proteins and their conserved domains in cell cycle alteration, actin reorganization, and gene activation in rat cells. AB - Rat embryo cells were infected with adenovirus type 5 mutants that code for only one of the two early E1A proteins, mutants with defects in one of the two conserved regions common to the two proteins, or mutants with defects in the 46 amino-acid region unique to the 289-amino-acid E1A protein. Cells were scored for altered cell cycle progression, disruption of actin stress fibers, and activation of E2A expression. Mutants lacking either E1A protein were able to cause all of these effects; but mutants lacking a 243-amino-acid protein had less effect, and mutants lacking a 289-amino-acid protein much less effect, than wild-type virus. A mutation in any of the three conserved regions caused a defect in each E1A effect. To investigate the reported function of conserved domain 2 in mitosis, we monitored by fluorescence-activated cell sorter the reduction in Hoechst 33342 fluorescence that occurs when cells divide after undergoing a round of DNA replication in 5-bromodeoxyuridine. A smaller percentage of adenovirus-infected cells than mock-infected cells divided within a given period after completing a round of DNA replication. Viruses with mutations in conserved domain 2 were defective for initiation of cellular DNA replication, as were all other E1A mutants we have examined, but had no specific defect in cell division compared with wild-type virus. Thus, although there may be some specialization of function between the two E1A proteins and between their conserved domains, it was not apparent in the aspects of E1A function and the mutants that we examined. PMID- 2521186 TI - Relationship between organization of the actin cytoskeleton and the cell cycle in normal and adenovirus-infected rat cells. AB - Flow cytometry and staining with 7-nitrobenz-2-oxa-1,3-diazole-phallacidin were used to investigate organization of the actin cytoskeleton in rat embryo cells at different stages of normal and adenovirus E1A-induced cell cycles. In uninfected cells in G0-G1 and S phases, actin was predominantly in the form of stress fibers. In G2, this organization changed to peripheral rings of thin filaments, while during mitosis, actin had a diffuse distribution. Infection of quiescent rat cells by adenovirus caused them to enter the cell cycle and replicate DNA and also caused disruption of stress fibers. Rapid disappearance of stress fibers and the appearance of peripheral rings of actin filaments began from 13 h after infection and closely followed synthesis of the E1A proteins. Infected cells began S phase at about 24 h after infection, and cells in G2 and mitosis were seen from 30 to 50 h. Thus, disruption of the actin cytoskeleton is an early effect of E1A and not an indirect consequence of the entry of infected cells into the cell cycle. PMID- 2521188 TI - Intrinsic resistance of feline peritoneal macrophages to coronavirus infection correlates with in vivo virulence. AB - Cats infected with virulent feline coronavirus strains develop feline infectious peritonitis, an invariably fatal, immunologically mediated disease; avirulent strains cause either clinically inapparent infection or mild enteritis. Four virulent coronavirus isolates and five avirulent isolates were assessed by immunofluorescence and virus titration for their ability to infect and replicate in feline peritoneal macrophages in vitro. The avirulent coronaviruses infected fewer macrophages, produced lower virus titers, were less able to sustain viral replication, and spread less efficiently to other susceptible macrophages than the virulent coronaviruses. Thus, the intrinsic resistance of feline macrophages may play a pivotal role in the outcome of coronavirus infection in vivo. PMID- 2521187 TI - Parvovirus replication in normal and transformed human cells correlates with the nuclear translocation of the early protein NS1. AB - The parvovirus H-1 infection of the normal human diploid fibroblast strain MRC-5 produces a cytopathic effect, but no increase in infectious virus has been observed. Previously, we reported that large amounts of empty capsids are assembled in the nucleus of H-1 infected MRC-5 cells (S. Singer and S. Rhode, in D. Ward and P. Tattersall, ed., Replication of Mammalian Parvoviruses, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y., 1978). The level of viral replicative-form DNA synthesis as shown by metabolic labeling is markedly reduced in these cells. Synthesis of the early protein NS1 is normal or slightly decreased, and the usual amount of the 92,000-molecular-weight (92K) posttranslationally modified NS1 was seen. The second deficient parameter that we have observed in the abortive infection is the nuclear translocation of NS1. In contrast, the simian virus 40-transformed MRC-5 cell line MRC-5 V1 and the simian virus 40-transformed human kidney cell line NB undergo a productive infection by H-1 accompanied by more efficient translocation of NS1 to the nucleus. The results indicate that there is an association between defective translocation of the NS1 rep protein to the nucleus and defective amplification of parvovirus replicative-form DNA. The nuclear translocation of specific proteins seems to be a function that is altered by development or neoplastic transformation. PMID- 2521190 TI - Reducing job exposure to blood-borne pathogens. PMID- 2521189 TI - Characterization of contraction-mediating prostanoid receptors in human penile erectile tissues. AB - The effects of the thromboxane-receptor antagonist L-636,499 were studied on contractions induced by the thromboxane A2 mimic U44069 and by prostaglandin F2 alpha in isolated preparations of the human corpus cavernosum and corpus spongiosum. The objectives were to characterize prostanoid receptors and, in particular, to elucidate whether more than one receptor was involved in prostanoid-induced contraction of penile erectile tissues. L-636,499 at concentrations 10(-6) M to 3 x 10(-5) M induced a parallel shift to the right of the concentration-response curve to U44069 in both corpus cavernosum and corpus spongiosum suggesting competitive antagonism. Schild plots using U44069 as the agonist and L-636,499 as the antagonist revealed slope indexes near unity in both tissues, and the pA2 values were almost identical. In contrast, L-636,499 concentration-dependently reduced the maximum response to prostaglandin F2 alpha, indicating a non-competitive action. The results suggest that the main contraction-mediating prostanoid receptor in human penile erectile tissues is a thromboxane A2 sensitive receptor. However, the presence of more than one contraction-mediating prostanoid receptor cannot be excluded. PMID- 2521191 TI - Racial inequalities in the use of procedures for patients with ischemic heart disease in Massachusetts. AB - To examine interracial differences in the utilization of coronary angiography, coronary artery bypass grafting, and coronary angioplasty for white and black patients, we examined all admissions for circulatory diseases or chest pain to Massachusetts hospitals in 1985. After controlling for age, sex, payer, income, primary diagnoses, and the number of secondary diagnoses, whites underwent significantly more angiography and coronary artery bypass grafting procedures. Whites also underwent more angioplasty procedures, but the difference was not statistically significant. Although utilization differences may reflect patient preference or different levels of disease severity and socioeconomic status not adequately accounted for, this study suggests that substantial racial inequalities exist in the use of procedures for patients hospitalized with coronary heart disease. PMID- 2521192 TI - Prevalence of lumbosacral intervertebral disk abnormalities on MR images in pregnant and asymptomatic nonpregnant women. AB - The prevalence of lumbosacral intervertebral disk bulge and herniation on sagittal magnetic resonance (MR) images was determined in 45 pregnant subjects and 41 asymptomatic nonpregnant women of childbearing age. MR technique differed for the pregnant and nonpregnant groups. Fifty-three percent of pregnant and 54% of nonpregnant women had an abnormal disk (bulge or herniation) at one or more levels (L3-4, L4-5, or L5-S1). The difference was not statistically significant. There was also no significant difference in the distribution of outcomes among the 45 pregnant subjects, 17 parous nonpregnant women, and 24 nulliparous women. The results suggest that lumbosacral disk bulges or herniations are common in women of childbearing age, whether pregnant or not, and that, contrary to an earlier report, pregnant women do not have an increased prevalence of disk abnormalities. PMID- 2521193 TI - Percutaneous treatment of superior vena cava syndrome. PMID- 2521194 TI - Surface electrocardiogram in the detection of transmural myocardial ischemia during coronary artery occlusion. AB - To examine whether coronary occlusion causing transmural ischemia was accurately reflected by ST-segment elevation on routine electrocardiograms, intracoronary and surface electrocardiograms were simultaneously recorded during percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA). The study group consisted of 54 patients who had intracoronary ST-segment elevation during transient coronary occlusion (left anterior descending [LAD]: 25 patients, left circumflex [LC]: 19 patients, right coronary artery: 12 patients). Elevation of the ST segment on the surface electrocardiogram (greater than or equal to 0.1 mV) was recorded in 84% of patients during LAD dilatation, in 32% of patients during LC dilatation (p less than 0.01 vs LAD and right), and in 92% of patients during right coronary dilatation (not significant vs LAD). The magnitude of intracoronary ST elevation was 1.10 +/- 0.8, 1.68 +/- 1.2 and 0.8 +/- 0.6 mV for the LAD, LC and right occlusions, respectively (not significant). Thus, despite the comparable magnitude of intracoronary ST elevation, LC occlusion resulted in ST-segment elevation on the surface electrocardiogram in significantly fewer patients than did LAD or right occlusion. During LC occlusion, 9 patients had no electrocardiographic changes and 4 had only precordial ST depression. Thus, in patients with transmural ischemia during right or LAD occlusions, concordant ST elevation on the surface electrocardiogram is common. In contrast, ST-segment elevation is an insensitive marker of LC occlusion. In patients with ongoing ischemic symptoms and isolated precordial ST depression or no repolarization abnormalities, LC occlusion should be considered in the differential diagnosis. PMID- 2521195 TI - Safety and efficacy of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty performed at time of diagnostic catheterization compared with that performed at other times. AB - Performing diagnostic cardiac catheterization and percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) as a single, combined procedure might provide savings in patient hospitalization days and more efficient use of catheterization laboratory time. To assess the safety and efficacy of combined diagnostic coronary angiography and PTCA, we reviewed all elective PTCA procedures performed at our institution during 1985 and 1986 so that we could compare patients who had diagnostic angiography and angioplasty on separate days (n = 404) with those who had the combined procedure (n = 120). The success rate and incidences of urgent bypass surgery, acute myocardial infarction, transient azotemia and procedure related death were not different in the 2 groups. The mean hospitalization time was 6.2 days in the group with combined angiography and angioplasty, and 7.3 days in the group having separate procedures. PMID- 2521196 TI - Importance of stenosis morphology in the estimation of restenosis risk after elective percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. AB - To determine the importance of predilatation stenosis morphology on the risk of restenosis after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA), 500 procedures were randomly chosen for analysis from 3,839 consecutive successful PTCA procedures. Angiographic follow-up was available for 308 patients (62%) at a mean of 7.3 +/- 3.4 months after PTCA. One dilated site was randomly chosen per procedure. One hundred and one sites had documented restenosis (greater than or equal to 50% mean diameter stenosis from multiple projections) by quantitative angiography (33% of all sites restudied and 20% of all sites dilated). Twenty eight morphologic variables and 20 other angiographic, clinical and procedural variables were analyzed by an observer blinded to clinical outcome. Univariate analysis found post-PTCA percent stenosis greater than 30% (p = 0.005), bend point location (p = 0.01), post-PTCA gradient greater than 15 mm Hg (p = 0.02), angina class III to IV (p = 0.03), age (p = 0.04) and the absence of dissection (p = 0.04) to predict restenosis. Multivariate analysis found only 2 significant (p less than 0.05) independent predictors of restenosis: post-PTCA percent stenosis greater than 30% and bend point location. Restenosis occurred in 41% of lesions located at an end-diastolic vessel angle greater than or equal to 45 degrees compared with 28% in lesions on lesser bends. Thus, only 1 predilatation morphologic characteristic, stenosis location at a bend point, was an important independent predictor of restenosis, and should be considered when assessing patients for PTCA. PMID- 2521197 TI - A simple method to detect and estimate heterogeneity: application to Huntington disease, diabetes, and HIV seroconversion. AB - The traditional method for calculating risk in prospective and retrospective studies is based on the assumption that the study population is homogeneous. Risk is therefore estimated as an overall average for the entire population, when in fact some individuals may be at high risk and others at little or no risk. This paper introduces an alternate approach to risk estimation. The calculations are equally simple and utilize the same data. Yet, the new approach allows for heterogeneity and can detect it when it exists. The new method was applied to HIV seroconversion data from a follow-up study, age-at-onset distribution for Huntington disease, and age-specific prevalence of insulin-treated diabetes. These analyses were intended to demonstrate both applicability of the method to different types of data and the accuracy of the estimates when compared with the known parameters. The HIV analysis predicted a high-risk subgroup constituting about 17% of the cohort. This estimate closely approximates the actual 16% who reportedly engaged in high-risk activities and had a 15-fold higher seroconversion rate than the rest of the cohort. There is no evidence from genetic linkage studies for heterogeneity in Huntington disease. The present results, however, suggested that 14%-18% of individuals who are susceptible to the disease have a much lower risk than others. Diabetes data was chosen because the model is clearly too simplistic for this disease, and the analysis did reveal lack of fit of the model. PMID- 2521198 TI - Acceptance of hepatitis B vaccine among dentists. PMID- 2521199 TI - Left ventricular mass and incidence of coronary heart disease in an elderly cohort. The Framingham Heart Study. AB - OBJECTIVE: To examine the association of echocardiographically determined left ventricular mass with incidence of coronary heart disease in an elderly cohort. DESIGN: Cohort study with a follow-up period of 4 years. SETTING: Population based. SUBJECTS: Elderly original volunteer subjects of the Framingham Heart Study who were free of clinically apparent coronary heart disease. This group included 406 men (mean age, 68 years: range, 60 to 90) and 735 women (mean age, 69 years: range, 59 to 90). MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: During 4 years of follow-up, coronary heart disease events occurred in 37 men and 33 women. Baseline echocardiographically determined left ventricular mass was associated with incidence of coronary disease in both sexes (P less than 0.01). After adjusting for age, systolic blood pressure, smoking, and the ratio of total/high density lipoprotein cholesterol, the relative risk for a coronary event, per 50 g/m increment in left ventricular mass/height, was 1.67 in men (95% CI, 1.24 to 2.23) and 1.60 in women (95% CI, 1.10 to 2.32). CONCLUSIONS: Echocardiographic assessment of left ventricular mass offers prognostic information beyond that provided by traditional risk factors, which can improve our ability to identify individuals at high risk for coronary heart disease. These findings may have widespread implications regarding the applications of echocardiography in clinical practice. PMID- 2521200 TI - Plasmin and fibronectin degradation in chronic secretory otitis media. AB - Mucoid effusions from 39 children with secretory otitis media, altogether 42 specimens, were analyzed for proteolytic activity using radial caseinolysis procedures, for fibronectin using a solid-phase enzyme immunoassay, and for fibronectin fragmentation using immunoblotting. All samples contained proteolytic activity, tentatively identified as plasmin on the basis of comigration with purified human plasmin in zymographic analysis. In 19 specimens the plasmin level exceeded 1 microgram/mg of protein; the highest value recorded was 18.7 micrograms/mg. Low levels of net plasminogen activator activity were found in 12 specimens and identified as urokinase according to comigration with the urokinase standard in zymography. Fibronectin was detected in all but one of the 42 specimens; in seven specimens the levels exceeded those in normal plasma, calculated per milligram of total protein. Extensive fragmentation of fibronectin was found in 19 specimens, correlating with high plasmin levels. The results are indicative of an ongoing proteolytic process in secretory otitis media and suggest that plasmin-caused degradation of the fibronectin-containing basement membrane and subsequent formation of granulation tissue may be involved in the development of adhesive middle ears. PMID- 2521201 TI - Inactivation of alpha 2-antiplasmin by limited reaction with cis dichlorodiammineplatinum (II) AB - alpha 2-Antiplasmin (alpha 2AP), a serpin proteinase inhibitor with two methionine residues in its reactive center, was treated with cis dichlorodiammineplatinum (II) (cis-DDP). This compound has been utilized previously to specifically modify methionine residues. After reaction, the alpha 2AP demonstrated decreased inhibitory activity against plasmin, miniplasmin, trypsin and chymotrypsin. The reduction in activity depended on the concentration of cis-DDP; however, the amount of activity retained by the treated alpha 2AP was equivalent with each of the four proteinases. alpha 2AP that was incubated with 1.0 mM cis-DDP for 3 h at 37 degrees C was 90% inactivated. These same conditions resulted in the binding of only 1.0-1.5 mol of platinum per mol of inhibitor. In experiments with lower concentrations of cis-DDP, the amount of incorporated platinum directly correlated with the amount of inactivated alpha 2AP (1:1 stoichiometry). Reactions and functions of alpha 2AP that do not result in proteinase inhibition were not affected by cis-DDP. Cleavage of alpha 2AP by elastase, which occurs near the proteinase inhibition site, was unaffected. In addition, the affinity of alpha 2AP for the K1-3 region of plasminogen remained unchanged after treatment. These data strongly suggest that the reaction of alpha 2AP with cis-DDP involves principally a single site on the inhibitor and that this site is critical for proteinase inhibitory activity. The most likely candidate is the P'1 methionine which is adjacent to the peptide bonds cleaved in the proteinase inhibitory reactions but not in the elastase reaction. PMID- 2521202 TI - Differences in left ventricular adaptation to chronic mitral and aortic regurgitation. AB - For comparable volume load, impedance to ejection of the regurgitant volume in AR exceeds that in MR. To determine whether this load difference results in differences in PLVH and ejection performance, we studied consecutive, untreated, asymptomatic patients (11 in each group) by echocardiography and Doppler. Mean LVID, SBP, h, and FS were, respectively, in AR vs MR: 60.3 +/- 3.1 mm vs 62.0 +/- 2.3 mm (p = NS), 152 +/- 7.1 mm Hg vs 125 +/- 6.4 mm Hg (p less than 0.005), 12.1 +/- 0.4 mm vs 10.5 +/- 0.6 mm (p less than 0.04), and 0.38 +/- 0.02 vs 0.43 +/- 0.02 (p = NS). The h/R ratio reflects the PLVH-0.41 +/- 0.02 in AR and 0.34 +/- 0.02 in MR (p less than 0.02). The FS correlates positively with h/R in either lesion, but was higher in MR for any given h/R. The difference in loading conditions imposed by both lesions is associated with a difference in the PLVH as well as in ejection performance. PMID- 2521203 TI - Coarctation restenosis after isthmosubclavioplasty. A consideration on operative procedure and intraluminal balloon angioplasty. AB - We describe a case of a six-month-old boy in whom an aortic coarctation restenosis had developed three months after isthmosubclavioplasty. The restenosis was successfully relieved by means of intraluminal balloon angioplasty. At the isthmosubclavioplasty operation, extensive mobilization of the aorta to facilitate the anastomosis should be avoided. From anatomic and operative viewpoints, coarctation restenosis after the isthmosubclavioplasty operation was considered to be amenable to the intraluminal balloon angioplasty. PMID- 2521204 TI - Carteolol, an antihypertensive beta-blocker with intrinsic sympathomimetic activity, reduces ECG evidence of left ventricular hypertrophy. AB - Effective treatment of chronic hypertension may be accompanied by a decrease, increase, or no change in the extent of LVH, depending on the pharmacologic properties of the antihypertensive agents employed. Unlike beta-adrenoceptor blockers without ISA, beta-adrenoceptor blockers with ISA have been reported to increase left ventricular mass despite favorable reductions in blood pressure. To assess further the potential effect of ISA on LVH, we retrospectively evaluated the effect of carteolol, a nonspecific beta-adrenoceptor antagonist with strong ISA, upon ECG evidence of LVH. In 12 patients with LVH, carteolol treatment for one year reduced mean arterial blood pressures from 120 +/- 2 mm Hg to 100 +/- 2 mm Hg and mean hypertrophy scores from 5.2 +/- 0.6 to 2.6 +/- 0.8. Therefore, ISA does not preclude the regression of ECG evidence of LVH during the treatment of hypertension. PMID- 2521205 TI - The role of prostaglandins in masculine differentiation: modulation of prostaglandin levels in the differentiating genital tract of the fetal mouse. AB - The present study was designed to test the hypothesis that the stimulation of arachidonic acid prostaglandins (PG) mediates the masculinizing effects of testosterone in the fetal mouse. We examined a number of situations in which masculine organization was either induced or inhibited by external agents and determined whether PG levels in the fetal genital tracts were altered in a manner coincident with those situations. We show here that both PGE2 and 6-keto-PGF1 alpha levels in the male fetal genital tracts increased with the advancement of masculine differentiation. PG levels in males (1.2 +/- 0.3 pg PGE2 and 0.1 +/- 0.03 pg 6-keto-PGF1 alpha on day 14 of gestation) increased to 2.1 +/- 0.3 pg PGE2 and 1.2 +/- 0.3 PG 6-keto-PGF1 alpha on day 18 of gestation. The PG levels in the male genital tract were significantly higher than the PG levels in the female genital tract throughout the period of sexual differentiation. Before this period, however, such as on day 14 of gestation (when male and female fetuses have identical genital tracts) we found no difference in their PG levels. Moreover, administration of testosterone (40 mg/kg) during the critical period of masculine differentiation (days 13-17 of gestation) significantly increased PG levels (approximately 2-fold) of female fetuses. Furthermore, we found that cyproterone acetate (20 mg/kg), an inhibitor of masculine differentiation, on days 13-17 of gestation deceased PG levels in male fetuses. In addition, administration of PG synthesis inhibitors, namely indomethacin (1 mg/kg) and aspirin (100 mg/kg), inhibited both resting and androgen-inducible PG levels in male and female fetuses. Considering these results together, it may be concluded that PGs have a critical role in the masculinizing action of fetal testosterone. PMID- 2521206 TI - Chronic estrogen treatment promotes a functional uncoupling of the D2 dopamine receptor in rat anterior pituitary gland. AB - The effect of chronic estrogen treatment on the anterior pituitary D2 dopamine receptor was studied by treating rats with diethylstilbestrol (DES) over a 6-week period. DES treatment resulted in an increase in anterior pituitary weight and PRL content and serum PRL levels compared to those in sham-treated controls. The status of the anterior pituitary D2 dopamine receptor was evaluated using both radioligand binding and adenylate cyclase assays. [125I]N-(p aminophenethyl)spiroperidol [( 125I]NAPS), a derivative of the D2-selective antagonist spiperone, was used to quantitate D2 receptors. Saturation analysis of [125I]NAPS binding indicated that DES treatment had no effect on the affinity or maximum binding capacity of the radioligand for the D2 receptor. Competition analysis with unlabeled D2 antagonists for [125I]NAPS binding also indicated that DES treatment did not affect antagonist interactions with the receptor. In contrast, the interactions of agonists with the D2 receptors from DES-treated rats were modified, as assessed through [125I]NAPS competition analysis. Using control tissue, agonist competition curves revealed both high and low affinity agonist binding states of the receptor. In the presence of guanine nucleotides, the high affinity agonist binding state is abolished, reflecting coupling of the receptor with a guanine nucleotide regulatory (G) protein. In DES-treated tissue, agonist competition curves indicated the presence of only low affinity agonist binding, with minimal effects of guanine nucleotides, suggesting uncoupling of receptor-G-protein interactions. The functionality of the D2 receptor was further assessed by examining dopaminergic inhibition of vasoactive intestinal peptide stimulated adenylate cyclase activity. Although DES treatment resulted in a reduction of vasoactive intestinal peptide-stimulated enzyme activity itself, the ability of dopaminergic agonists to inhibit this activity was reduced by about 50%. These results suggest that estrogen is capable of attenuating the functional coupling of the D2 receptor with its biochemical effector system in the anterior pituitary gland. PMID- 2521208 TI - Pharmacokinetics of vasopressin and atrial natriuretic peptide in anesthetized rabbits. AB - The elimination from plasma of the peptide hormones vasopressin (VP) and atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) as well as the time course of release and elimination of these hormones after a physiological stimulus were studied in anesthetized rabbits. As an inverse relationship was found to exist between carotid sinus pressure and plasma IR-ANP, a decrease in carotid sinus pressure to 60 mm Hg was used to stimulate ANP as well as VP release. The elimination of VP after iv injection involved a rapid initial phase and a slow late component, with corresponding half-life (t1/2) values of 0.9 and 5.4 min, respectively. After reduction of carotid sinus pressure to 60 mm Hg, plasma VP increased significantly within 1 min and reached a maximum at 10 min. When carotid sinus pressure was increased to 160 mm Hg to inhibit VP release, the t1/2 of VP was 1.3 min. The t1/2 of immunoreactive (IR) ANP after iv infusion was 1.2 min. Plasma IR ANP was significantly increased 2 min after carotid sinus pressure was decreased, and a maximum was observed at 10 min. The t1/2 of IR-ANP after elevation of carotid sinus pressure to 160 mm Hg was 3.2 min. These studies indicate that both VP and IR-ANP are rapidly eliminated in the anesthetized rabbit. PMID- 2521207 TI - Suppression of ovulation rate by antibodies to tissue-type plasminogen activator and alpha 2-antiplasmin. AB - Indirect evidence has suggested a role for plasminogen activator (PA) in ovulation. Our recent studies demonstrated that 1) tissue-type PA (tPA) is the predominant PA produced by preovulatory rat follicles in response to gonadotropins or GnRH; and 2) several inhibitors of the serine proteases, to which PA and plasmin belong, block ovulation. Here, the role of tPA and plasmin in ovulation was examined directly by the use of specific antibodies to tPA and alpha 2-antiplasmin (alpha 2AP). Immature female rats at 25-26 days of age were treated (sc) with 15 IU PMSG to induce multiple preovulatory follicles. Fifty four hours later, tPA antibodies and alpha 2AP were injected into one of the ovarian bursae to check their ability to block ovulation, which was initiated with an ovulatory dose (4 IU) of hCG. The data are expressed as percent inhibition of ovulation in the treated vs. the untreated ovaries. A significant decrease in the ovulation rate was obtained by administration of 500 micrograms antibodies to tPA (39.6%) or 1-50 micrograms alpha 2AP (36-44%), whereas minimal inhibition (12%) was found at lower doses of anti-tPA (10 micrograms) or alpha 2AP (0.1 micrograms). Furthermore, nonimmune immunoglobulin G (500 micrograms) and heat-inactivated alpha 2AP were not effective. Anti-tPA and alpha 2AP suppressed ovulation only when injected at the time of hCG administration; later injections (4-h delay) were ineffective, suggesting that PA and plasmin are involved in the early follicular responses to the ovulatory stimulus. Histological observation of the ovaries did not reveal any pathological changes associated with the anti-tPA and alpha 2AP treatment. Suppression of ovulation, as evidenced by decreased number of tubal ova, was frequently accompanied with intraovarian release of the eggs into the follicular thecal compartment. Thus, these results provide direct evidence for an essential role of tPA and plasmin in ovulation. PMID- 2521209 TI - Characterization of induction of protooncogene c-myc and cellular growth in human vascular smooth muscle cells by insulin and IGF-I. AB - Insulin and insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) are structurally related polypeptides that stimulate DNA synthesis and cellular proliferation, probably through a common pathway. Human arterial smooth muscle cells in culture demonstrated the presence of high-affinity receptors for both these hormones. Insulin and IGF-I both exhibited cross-reactivity to each other's receptors but with an affinity that is 100-fold less than for the homologous receptor. To examine more closely the receptor responsible for producing the growth effects, we used the polyclonal antibody against the insulin receptor, B2, and a monoclonal antibody to the IGF-I receptor, alpha IR3. We studied the growth effects of insulin and IGF-I as measured by stimulation of c-myc, DNA synthesis, and cellular proliferation in the presence and absence of these antibodies. F(ab') fragments of the anti-insulin-receptor antibody at a concentration of 10 micrograms/ml were capable of displacing greater than 90% of the bound insulin, thus establishing an effective insulin-receptor blockade. Under such blockade, insulin and IGF-I were both capable of doubling the amount of DNA synthesis and cell number in cultured human arterial smooth muscle cells. However, in the presence of a 1:2500 dilution of the monoclonal antibody alpha IR3, which caused a 90% displacement of IGF-I bound to its receptor, both the insulin and IGF-I effects on stimulating DNA synthesis or cellular proliferation were inhibited by greater than 90%. These findings demonstrate that the IGF-I receptor is the common pathway for the growth effects of both insulin and IGF-I.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521210 TI - Release of glomerular heparan-35SO4 proteoglycan by heparin from glomeruli of streptozocin-induced diabetic rats. AB - Abnormalities in the incorporation of heparan sulfate proteoglycan into the glomerular basement membrane have been implicated in the pathogenesis of various proteinuric states, including diabetes mellitus. To understand further the interactions between proteoglycans and glomerular extracellular matrices, glomeruli were isolated from normal and streptozocin-induced diabetic rats after in vivo exposure to 35S-labeled sulfate and were treated with heparin in vitro. Heparin treatment released a unique heparan sulfate proteoglycan from glomerular cell surface or extracellular matrix proteoglycan receptors. Another, smaller heparan sulfate proteoglycan was the most abundant proteoglycan released into medium and was released constitutively in medium with or without added heparin. While the two heparin-extracted proteoglycans copurified on anion-exchange and gel-filtration chromatographic columns, they were resolved by composite 0.6% agarose--1.8% polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Glomeruli from diabetic rats contained decreased proportions of the heparin-releasable heparan sulfate proteoglycan and more constitutively released heparan sulfate proteoglycan. The apparent molecular weight and intrinsic charge of the heparin-released proteoglycan mixture and the apparent molecular weight and sulfation pattern of their 35S-labeled glycosaminoglycan chains after nitrous acid deaminative cleavage were similar in the two groups. A brief trypsin digestion of heparin treated glomeruli released proportionately less integral membrane and extracellular matrix 35S-labeled proteoglycans and 35S-labeled glycopeptides from diabetic glomeruli than form control glomeruli. Elution of these 35S-labeled macromolecules from anion-exchange columns and migration in agarose polyacrylamide gels were similar in the two groups. Abnormalities in proteoglycan matrix interactions or proteoglycan processing may account for changes in the proportions of heparin- and trypsin-extracted proteoglycan compartments in diabetes. PMID- 2521211 TI - Induction of intestinal glucose carriers in streptozocin-treated chronically diabetic rats. AB - The maximal transport capacity (Vmax) for intestinal glucose absorption is increased in experimentally induced chronic diabetes mellitus. Using [3H]phlorizin radioautography, we examined the relation between this increase in transport Vmax and the number and distribution of sodium-glucose co-transporters on the luminal surface of rat ileum. Male Lewis rats were made diabetic with streptozocin. Ninety days later we measured 3-O-methyl-D-glucopyranose absorption and specific [3H]phlorizin binding to the ileal mucosa of the same rats. Net 3-O methyl-D-glucopyranose flux was 6.9-fold greater in diabetic rats compared with age-matched controls. Specific binding of [3H]phlorizin to the luminal surface was 7.2-fold greater in the diabetic rats. Radioautography revealed that, in chronic diabetes, specific phlorizin binding extends into the midvillus region of the ileum, whereas in age-matched controls, it is confined to villus tips. We believe that, in untreated diabetes, a larger fraction of intestinal villus epithelial cells participate in glucose absorption. PMID- 2521212 TI - Inhibition of human ovarian cancer cell proliferation in vitro by neuroendocrine hormones. AB - Direct inhibitory effects of neuroendocrine hormones on human ovarian cancer cell proliferation in vitro were examined. Except for melatonin, all neuroendocrine hormones used in this study inhibited proliferation of KF cells derived from human serous cystadenocarcinoma of the ovary in a dose-dependent manner. The degree of inhibition of prostaglandin D2 was most marked being comparable to that of 5-fluorouracil and followed by beta-endorphin, alpha-endorphin, and Met enkephalin. More than 200 microM melatonin stimulated the cell proliferation. The inhibitory effects by endorphins were partially reversible by 20 microM naloxone. From analyses of uptakes of radiolabeled precursors by the KF cell, endorphins were considered to inhibit protein and RNA syntheses but not DNA synthesis. These results suggest that neuroendocrine hormones may play an important role in regulation of tumor growth. PMID- 2521215 TI - Site-directed mutagenesis in Bacillus stearothermophilus fructose-6-phosphate 1 kinase. Mutation at the substrate-binding site affects allosteric behavior. AB - Arg252 of fructose-6-phosphate 1-kinase (PFK) from Bacillus stearothermophilus has been proposed to be involved in the binding of the substrate Fru-6-P. We demonstrate here that mutation of this residue to alanine converts the enzyme to a form with characteristics similar to those of its allosterically tight form. The mutant enzyme exhibits a high affinity for its inhibitor phosphoenolpyruvate (a 68-fold difference compared to wild type) and a dramatically decreased Fru-6-P affinity (1500-fold increase in Km). It is more sensitive to inhibition by high ATP concentrations than the wild type, and this inhibition is relieved by ADP, GDP, or higher Fru-6-P concentrations. In contrast, mutation of Arg252 to lysine increases the affinity of the enzyme for P-enolpyruvate by only 2-fold and increases its Km for Fru-6-P by only 50-fold. Sigmoidal kinetics with respect to Fru-6-P in the presence of P-enolpyruvate were observed with Hill numbers of 2.2, 2.4, and 1.7 for wild-type B. stearothermophilus PFK and the Arg252 to lysine and to alanine mutations, respectively. Unlike fructose-6-phosphate 1-kinase from Escherichia coli, in the absence of P-enolpyruvate, B. stearothermophilus PFK exhibits a hyperbolic profile with respect to Fru-6-P concentration. B. stearothermophilus PFK is sensitive to inhibition by high ATP concentrations and competitively inhibited by GDP or ADP. Our data indicate that Arg252 of B. stearothermophilus PFK plays a major role in both Fru-6-P binding and allosteric interaction between the subunits. However, this residue does not seem to participate directly in the catalytic process. PMID- 2521213 TI - Kinetics of murine delayed-type hypersensitivity response to Eimeria falciformis (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae). AB - Mice recovering from a primary infection with an intestinal protozoan parasite, Eimeria falciformis (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae), showed a classic delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) reaction to oocyst antigen challenge. This reaction was characterized by a biphasic pattern of footpad swelling. The first swelling peaked at 2 h after antigen challenge, whereas the second swelling peaked at 24 to 48 h after challenge. The DTH reaction was transferable with a T-cell-enriched spleen cell population from mice that had recovered from E. falciformis infection. Cytotoxic depletion of immune T cells with anti-L3T4 antibody and complement abrogated DTH transfer, indicating that L3T4-positive T cells were required. A T-cell-enriched spleen cell population from acutely infected mice suppressed the transfer of DTH with immune cells from recovered animals, implicating the existence of infection-induced immunoregulatory cells controlling the parasite-specific immune response during infection. Immune spleen cells also transferred resistance to infection as measured by oocyst production and death rate of recipients. Together, these results indicate that the DTH reaction, induced by infection with E. falciformis, is mediated by L3T4-positive T cells and is associated with resistance to infection. PMID- 2521214 TI - Production by Clostridium spiroforme of an iotalike toxin that possesses mono(ADP ribosyl)transferase activity: identification of a novel class of ADP ribosyltransferases. AB - Clostridium spiroforme iotalike toxin produced time- and concentration-dependent incorporation of ADP-ribose into homo-poly-L-arginine. Polyasparagine, polyglutamic acid, polylysine, and agmatine were poor substrates. Enzyme activity was associated with the light-chain polypeptide of the toxin. The heavy chain did not possess ADP-ribosyltransferase activity, nor did it enhance or inhibit activity of the light chain. In broken-cell assays, the toxin acted mainly on G actin, rather than F-actin. A single ADP-ribose group was transferred to each substrate molecule (G-actin). The enzyme was heat sensitive, had a pH optimum in the range of 7 to 8, was inhibited by high concentrations of nicotinamide, and was reversibly denatured by urea and guanidine. Physiological levels of nucleotides (AMP, ADP, ATP, and ADP-ribose) and cations (Na+, K+, Ca2+, and Mg2+) were not very active as enzyme inhibitors. The toxin was structurally and functionally similar to Clostridium botulinum type C2 toxin and Clostridium perfringens iota toxin. When combined with previous findings, the data suggest that a new class of mono(ADP-ribosyl)ating toxins has been found and that these agents belong to a related and possibly homologous series of binary toxins. PMID- 2521216 TI - Mutations in the conserved proline 43 residue of the uncE protein (subunit c) of Escherichia coli F1F0-ATPase alter the coupling of F1 to F0. AB - The conserved Pro43 residue of the uncE protein (subunit c) of the Escherichia coli F1F0-ATPase was changed to Ser or Ala by oligonucleotide-directed mutagenesis, and the mutations were incorporated into the chromosome. The resultant mutant strains were capable of oxidative phosphorylation as indicated by their ability to grow on succinate and had growth yields on glucose that were 80-90% of wild type. Membrane vesicles from the mutants were slightly less efficient than wild type vesicles in ATP-driven proton pumping as indicated by ATP-dependent quenching of quinacrine fluorescence. The decreased quenching response was not due to increased H+ leakiness of the mutant membranes or to loss of F1-ATPase activity from the membrane. These results indicate that the mutant F1F0-ATPases are defective in coupling ATP hydrolysis to H+ translocation. The membrane ATPase activity of the mutants was inhibited less by dicyclohexylcarbodiimide than that of wild type. The decrease in sensitivity to inhibition by dicyclohexylcarbodiimide was caused primarily by dissociation of the F1-ATPase from the mutant F0 in the ATPase assay mixture. These results support the idea that Pro43, and neighboring conserved polar residues play an important role in the binding and functional coupling of F1 to F0. Although a Pro residue is found at position 43 in all species of subunit c studied, surprisingly, it is not absolutely essential to function. PMID- 2521217 TI - A mitochondrial protein from Neurospora crassa detected both on ribosomes and in membrane fractions. Analysis of the gene, the message, and the protein. AB - We have isolated clones representing at least three nuclear genes for mitochondrial ribosomal proteins from Neurospora crassa by screening a lambda gt11 cDNA library with an antiserum against a mixture of these proteins. The cDNA and genomic DNA sequence for one of these genes, mrp-3, was determined. The MRP3 protein was purified by immune-affinity chromatography, using a monoclonal antibody probe, and subjected to amino acid sequence analysis to identify the mature amino terminus and a prospective mitochondrial-targeting presequence. MRP3 was identified as the largest, least basic protein detected from the small subunit of ribosomes which had been salt-washed and fractionated on sucrose gradients. However, the mRNA and protein products of mrp-3 were found to be present in excess over those of other N. crassa mitoribosomal protein genes. Using a solution hybridization/S1 nuclease assay, we found three-fold- more mRNA for mrp-3 than for another mito-ribosomal protein gene. In addition, a 30- to 50 fold excess of non-ribosomal MRP3 protein was discovered. The additional protein was localized in mitochondrial membrane fractions; none was detected in matrix fractions after removal of the ribosomes. An immunologically related protein was detected in ribosome and membrane fractions of mitochondria from Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The functional significance of this dual localization remains an enigma. PMID- 2521218 TI - Mitochondrial protein import. Bypass of proteinaceous surface receptors can occur with low specificity and efficiency. AB - Proteolytic degradation of receptor sites on the mitochondrial surface strongly reduces the efficiency of mitochondrial protein import. The remaining residual import still involves basic mechanisms of protein import, including: insertion of precursors into the outer membrane, requirement for ATP and a membrane potential, and translocation through contact sites between both membranes. The import of a chloroplast protein into isolated mitochondria which occurs with a low rate is not inhibited by a protease-pretreatment of mitochondria, indicating that this precursor only follows the bypass pathway. The low efficiency of bypass import suggests that this unspecific import does not disturb the uniqueness of mitochondrial protein composition. We conclude that mitochondrial protein import involves a series of steps in which receptor sites appear to be responsible for the specificity of protein uptake. PMID- 2521219 TI - Topology of the yeast plasma membrane proton-translocating ATPase. AB - Four proteases have been used to assess the topology of the H+-ATPase from Saccharomyces cerevisiae reconstituted into phosphatidylserine vesicles. Limited proteolysis by trypsin and alpha-chymotrypsin inactivates the enzyme and produces stable, membrane-bound fragments. Sequence analyses of these peptides have located the peptide bonds hydrolyzed. The labile bonds are on opposite sides of a central hydrophilic domain containing consensus sequences for the site of phosphorylation and fluorescein isothiocyanate binding of several related ATPases. Limited proteolysis of the ATPase by elastase cuts approximately 50 amino acids from the C terminus, leaving the remaining membrane-bound fragments active. Proteolysis by carboxypeptidase Y in the presence and absence of detergent suggests that the C terminus is on the inside of the vesicle in this reconstitution. A model for the transmembrane arrangement of the polypeptide is proposed. In this model, the C terminus is on the inside of the vesicle, the N terminus is on the outside, the ATP binding region is on the outside, and the polypeptide passes through the membrane a minimum of five times. PMID- 2521220 TI - Expression of the yeast aspartyl protease, proteinase A. Phosphorylation and binding to the mannose 6-phosphate receptor are altered by addition of cathepsin D sequences. AB - Proteinase A, a yeast aspartyl protease that is highly homologous to the mammalian lysosomal aspartyl protease, cathepsin D, was expressed in Xenopus oocytes and its biosynthesis and post-translational modifications were characterized. While 29-45% of the proteinase A was secreted from oocytes, approximately 37% of the cell-associated proteinase A underwent proteolytic cleavage, characteristic of delivery to a lysosomal organelle. Although proteinase A is not targeted to the yeast vacuole by a mannose 6-phosphate receptor-dependent pathway, 2-5% of the proteinase A molecules expressed in oocytes bound to a Man-6-P receptor column. However, analysis of its [2 3H]mannose-labeled oligosaccharides revealed that 14-23% of these units contain phosphomannosyl residues. A hybrid molecule (H6), in which the propiece and first 12 amino acids of proteinase A were changed to the cathepsin D sequence, was also expressed in oocytes. The binding of H6 to the Man-6-P receptor was approximately 12-fold greater than observed for proteinase A. This increased level of receptor binding could be accounted for by three factors: 1) a small increase in the total amount of phosphorylated oligosaccharides, 2) an increase in the number of oligosaccharides which acquire two phosphomonoesters, and 3) the presence of a greater percentage of oligosaccharides with one phosphomonoester which exhibit high affinity binding to the Man-6-P receptor. These results demonstrate that proteinase A is recognized by UDP-GlcNAc:lysosomal enzyme N acetylglucosaminylphosphotransferase. However, this interaction is altered by the addition of cathepsin D sequences, resulting in the generation of a higher affinity ligand for binding to the Man-6-P receptor. PMID- 2521221 TI - Isolation of a 45-kDa fragment from the kinesin heavy chain with enhanced ATPase and microtubule-binding activities. AB - Kinesin is a microtubule-activated, mechanochemical ATPase capable of moving particles along microtubules and making microtubules glide along a solid substrate. In this study we used limited proteolysis to study the structure of bovine brain kinesin, a heterotetramer composed of two heavy (120-kDa) and two light (62-kDa) chains. alpha-chymotrypsin, trypsin, and subtilisin all produced a protease-resistant 45-kDa fragment from the kinesin heavy chain. As isolated by gel-filtration chromatography, this fragment contains both the microtubule binding site and the ATP catalytic site of the molecule. Proteolytic cleavage stimulated microtubule-dependent Mg2+-ATPase activity 4- to 5-fold up to 75-120 mumol ATP/min/mg. Cleavage also increased the affinity of the fragment for microtubules at least 10-fold. Since the purified fragment does not support the gliding of flagellar axonemes, we propose that cleavage of the heavy chain uncouples ATPase activity from its translocator activity, which may require other parts of the molecule. PMID- 2521222 TI - Binding and activation of plasminogen on immobilized immunoglobulin G. Identification of the plasmin-derived Fab as the plasminogen-binding fragment. AB - We have found that tissue plasminogen activator catalyzes the binding of plasminogen (Pg) to immunoglobulin G (IgG) immobilized on a surface. This enhancement is due to the formation of plasmin, since plasmin treatment of immobilized IgG produced a 20-fold increase in Pg binding. Pg binding is lysine site dependent and reversible. The augmentation of Pg binding by plasmin is specific as other proteases produced significantly less or no effect. Immobilized plasmin-treated IgG also specifically binds Pg in plasma. IgG-immobilized Pg is activated by tissue plasminogen activator, and a significant portion of the plasmin formed remains bound to the IgG. The Pg reactive species in a plasmin treated IgG digest was identified as the Fab fragment by chromatography utilizing the immobilized high affinity lysine-binding site of plasminogen. Specificity of the interaction was further demonstrated by immunoblot-ligand analysis which demonstrated that the plasmin-derived Fab fragment bound Pg whereas papain derived Fab or plasmin-derived Fc fragments did not. These data suggest that Pg binds to the new COOH-terminal lysine residue of the plasmin-derived Fab. Pg also binds to an immobilized immune complex following plasmin treatment. These findings indicate that surface-bound IgG localizes plasminogen thus extending the spectrum of activity of the plasmin system to immunologic reactions. PMID- 2521223 TI - Increase in H-Y antigen-positive lymphocytes in hirsute women: effects of cyproterone acetate and estradiol treatment. AB - To investigate a possible relationship between lymphocyte H-Y antigen expression and plasma androgen concentrations in hirsute women, 27 hirsute women were studied. A significant increase in the percentage of H-Y-positive lymphocytes was found in both hirsute women with idiopathic hirsutism [13.4 +/- 2.9% (+/- SD); n = 15] and hirsute women with the polycystic ovary syndrome (13.0 +/- 2.8%; n = 12) compared to that in normal women (10.0 +/- 1.9%; n = 30; P less than 0.0005). Plasma testosterone and androstenedione concentrations, % H-Y+ lymphocytes, and hirsutism scores diminished during oral cyproterone acetate (50 mg/day) and percutaneous estradiol (3 mg/day) treatment. Significant correlations between % H Y+ lymphocytes and hirsutism scores (P less than 0.001), % H-Y+ lymphocytes and plasma T concentrations (P less than 0.01) were found. We conclude that 1) women can produce H-Y antigen in the same way as men; 2) hirsutism is associated with an increase in H-Y antigen; and 3) the antiandrogen cyproterone acetate reduces H Y antigen expression on lymphocytes. PMID- 2521224 TI - Inhibition of aromatase with CGS 16949A in postmenopausal women. AB - Potent, specific, and nontoxic inhibitors of aromatase would be useful for experimental studies and for use in the treatment of breast cancer and other disorders. We evaluated the effects of CGS 16949A, a nonsteroidal inhibitor of aromatase activity, in 12 postmenopausal women with breast cancer by measuring plasma and/or urinary androgens and estrogens after oral administration of CGS 16949A at doses ranging from 0.6-16 mg daily; each dose was given for 2 weeks. The 0.6-mg daily dose partially lowered estrogen levels, and maximum reduction occurred at doses of 2-16 mg daily. The fall in plasma and urinary estrogens without a concomitant fall in plasma androgens confirmed the blockade of aromatase activity. The degree of estrogen reduction was greatest for urinary estrone [to 27 +/- 3% (+/- SE) of basal], followed in order by plasma estrone sulfate (30 +/- 4%), plasma estrone (32 +/- 6%), urine estradiol (45 +/- 5%), and plasma estradiol (65 +/- 5%). Use of gas liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry techniques revealed similar patterns of reduction in catechol estrogens, estriol, and total urinary estrogens, suggesting that CGS 16949A does not alter the pathways of estrogen metabolism. The degree of estrogen reduction was remarkably similar to that caused with aminoglutethimide. At doses of 4-16 mg daily, CGS 16949A inhibited the C21-hydroxylase enzyme as well, based on concomitant rises in plasma androstenedione, testosterone, and 17 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone. This effect was insufficient to lower urinary cortisol excretion during the study. However, a statistically significant blunting of plasma cortisol responses to ACTH occurred with the 16-mg daily dose. No changes in plasma dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate levels or in thyroid, hematological, liver, or renal parameters were found. No significant side-effects of the medication were encountered. CGS 16949A appears to be a specific inhibitor of aromatase at doses below 4 mg daily and to lack apparent side-effects or toxic actions at doses up to 16 mg daily. This agent shows promise as a potent aromatase inhibitor for physiological and clinical studies. PMID- 2521225 TI - Causes of recoarctation after balloon angioplasty of unoperated aortic coarctation. AB - During the 35 month period ending December 1987, 30 children, aged 14 days to 13 years, underwent balloon angioplasty of unoperated aortic coarctation with resultant reduction in coarctation gradient from 43.6 +/- 20.4 to 9.5 +/- 7.6 mm Hg (p less than 0.001). None of the patients required immediate surgical intervention. On the basis of results of 6 to 30 month follow-up catheterization data in 20 children, the patients were classified as follows: Group A, 13 patients with good results (gradient less than or equal to 20 mm Hg and no recoarctation on angiograms) and Group B, 7 patients with fair or poor results (gradient greater than 21 mm Hg with or without recoarctation on angiography). No patient developed aortic aneurysm at the site of angioplasty. Thirty variables were examined by multivariate logistic regression analysis and four factors were identified as risk factors for development of recoarctation: 1) age less than 12 months, 2) aortic isthmus less than 2/3 the size of the ascending aorta immediately proximal to the right innominate artery, 3) coarcted aortic segment less than 3.5 mm before dilation, and 4) coarcted aortic segment less than 6 mm after angioplasty. The identification of risk factors may help in selection of patients for balloon angioplasty. Avoiding or minimizing the number of risk factors may help reduce the chance of recoarctation after angioplasty. The intermediate-term follow-up results with regard to recoarctation are comparable with those after surgical repair of coarctation. Recoarctation after angioplasty was dealt with by repeat balloon angioplasty or surgical resection for those requiring treatment and clinical follow-up for the remaining children.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521226 TI - Thrombolysis and Angioplasty in Myocardial Infarction (TAMI-1) trial: influence of infarct location on arterial patency, left ventricular function and mortality. AB - The influence of infarct location on arterial patency, left ventricular function and mortality after 150 mg of intravenous recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator (rt-PA) and selective coronary angioplasty was studied in 386 patients with acute myocardial infarction. In 329 patients with acute and 1 week angiograms, the 90 min infarct-related artery patency rate after rt-PA in the left anterior descending, the left circumflex and the right coronary artery was 77, 68 and 68%, respectively. Angioplasty, performed in half the patients, resulted in a final acute patency rate of 93%, which was not related to arterial distribution. Repeat catheterization and revascularization were required in 12% of patients before day 7 and were independent of arterial distribution. The reocclusion rate for the right coronary artery (21%) was higher than that for the left anterior descending (12%) or left circumflex (5%) artery (p = 0.01). Acute and 1 week contrast ventriculograms suitable for analysis were available in 266 patients. Whereas serial left ventricular ejection fraction did not improve during the course of this study, serial regional wall motion (centerline chord method) improved in each arterial distribution. The in-hospital mortality rate of 6% was not related to arterial distribution, although death was twice as likely with proximal compared with distal lesions. Ten of 11 patients who died in the group with the left anterior descending artery as the infarct-related artery had a lesion proximal to the first septal perforator branch.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521227 TI - Effects of blood pressure changes on development and regression of electrocardiographic left ventricular hypertrophy: a 26 year longitudinal study. AB - At the Radiation Effects Research Foundation, medical examinations have been conducted biennially since 1958 on a fixed population of approximately 20,000 individuals. Blood pressure measurements and electrocardiographic (ECG) recordings are available for 6,569 individuals who were monitored for at least 11 of the 13 2 year intervals between 1958 and 1984. Data from 601 individuals who had satisfied the Foundation's ECG diagnostic criteria of left ventricular hypertrophy ("Kagan-Yano code") on at least one occasion were reviewed. Both the development and the regression of ECG left ventricular hypertrophy were ascertained in 61 subjects (17 men and 44 women). During the course of development of ECG left ventricular hypertrophy, hypertension (including borderline cases) was noted in 83.3% of the subjects. The most common pattern of ECG left ventricular hypertrophy development was high voltage, followed by ST-T changes. In about half of these cases, the condition of hypertrophy regression was associated with lowering of blood pressure, marked by the disappearance of high voltage ECG readings. PMID- 2521228 TI - Alterations in serum sodium in relation to atrial natriuretic factor and other neuroendocrine variables in experimental pacing-induced heart failure. AB - The pathophysiologic role of atrial natriuretic factor and other neuroendocrine variables in relation to serum sodium and renal function was evaluated in 15 conscious dogs with severe chronic ventricular pacing-induced heart failure (250 beats/min for 5.1 +/- 0.4 weeks). Six sham-operated dogs observed over an 8 week period served as controls. Development of heart failure was characterized by a progressive increase in plasma norepinephrine, renin activity and aldosterone from control values of 293 +/- 15 pg/ml, 1.4 +/- 0.4 ng/ml per h and 124 +/- 42 pg/ml, respectively, to 1,066 +/- 96 pg/ml, 10.2 +/- 2.4 ng/ml per h and 577 +/- 151 pg/ml (all p less than 0.01), respectively, at severe heart failure. In contrast to other neuroendocrine variables, plasma atrial natriuretic factor increased from a control level of 243 +/- 74 pg/ml to a peak concentration of 724 +/- 149 pg/ml (p less than 0.01) at 2 weeks, then declined and plateaued at twice the level of the control value as severe heart failure developed. At severe heart failure, serum sodium decreased from 147 +/- 0.6 to 141.8 +/- 2.1 mmol/liter (p less than 0.05), whereas urea increased from 6.0 +/- 0.5 to 7.8 +/- 0.6 mmol/liter (p less than 0.05). The change in serum sodium concentration correlated with plasma renin activity and aldosterone (r = -0.77, -0.88, respectively, both p less than 0.01), but not with norepinephrine or atrial natriuretic factor. When sinus rhythm was restored, 14 dogs were observed for 48 to 72 h and 8 dogs were followed up for another 4 weeks after cessation of pacing.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521229 TI - Morphine for behavior control in dementia. PMID- 2521230 TI - T cell-induced Ig allotypic suppression in mice. II. Both CD4+ CD8- and CD4- CD8+ T cell subsets from sensitized Igha mice are required to induce suppression of Igh-1b allotype expression. AB - We established the phenotype of T splenocytes (Ts) from Igha/a BALB/c mice sensitized against B splenocytes from the Ighb/b CB20 congenic mice that induce Igh-1b (IgG2a of the Ighb haplotype) suppression. This was achieved by studying the action of anti-T cell subset mAb on the capacity of Ts to induce this chronic allotypic suppression in Igha/b (BALB/c x CB20)F1 mice. The Ts were treated with cytotoxic anti-mouse CD4 or anti-mouse CD8 rat mAb in vitro before their injection into the Igha/b newborns or in vivo after their injection into the Igha/b newborns. Exposure to either anti-CD8 or anti-CD4 mAb in vitro or in vivo leads to loss of the capacity of Ts to induce Igh-1b allotypic suppression. Mixing CD4+-cell-depleted Ts and CD8+-cell-depleted Ts preparations restored the capacity of the cells to induce Igh-1b suppression. Thus, both CD4+ CD8- Ts and CD4- CD8+ Ts are required for the induction of this allotypic suppression. Bone marrow cells and B splenocytes from Igh-1b-suppressed adult Igha/b mice were shown to be able to durably express Igh-1b when transferred into irradiated Igha/a BALB/c hosts whereas whole spleen cells from such donors failed to do it. Abrogation of Igh-1b suppression by in vivo anti-CD8 mAb treatment was achieved in adult Igha/b heterozygotes but with a lower efficiency than in adult Ighb/b homozygotes, all being chronically Igh-1b suppressed. The CD4- CD8+ cell population essential for maintaining this suppression is resistant to in vivo 600 rad irradiation and seems to be slightly inhibited by in vivo administration of free Igh-1b. PMID- 2521231 TI - Influence of recombinant IL-4, IFN-alpha, and IFN-gamma on the production of human IgE-binding factor (soluble CD23). AB - This study documents the influence of rIL-4, IFN-gamma, and IFN-alpha on the production of IgE-BF and the expression of lymphocyte receptor for IgE or CD23 Ag (Fc epsilon R II) by human mononuclear cells. IL-4 increases the secretion of IgE binding factor (BF) by highly purified B lymphocytes, adherent cells, and U937 monoblastic cells. The effect of IL-4 on purified B cells is augmented by costimulating the cells with F(ab')2 anti-IgM. IFN-gamma, IL-2, IL-1-alpha, or IL 1 beta and the low m.w. B cell growth factor have no effect on IgE-BF production by purified B cells even when they are used in combination with anti-IgM. Stimulation of purified T cells with IL-4 or IL-4 plus PMA leads to the production of very small amounts of IgE-BF that might well be derived from the contaminating non-T cells. IFN-gamma increases IgE-BF synthesis by unfractionated PBMC, T cell-depleted PBMC, adherent cells, and U937 cells suggesting that it induces monocytes to release IgE-BF, IFN-gamma suppresses the IL-4-induced Fc epsilon R II expression and IgE-BF production by highly purified B cells but not by PBMC or their T cell-depleted fractions. IFN-alpha inhibits IgE-BF production by IFN-gamma-stimulated PBMC and by IL-4-stimulated cells suggesting that it exerts its effect on B cells and on monocytes. Moreover IFN-alpha suppresses the IL-4-induced expression of Fc epsilon R II on B cells. Both IFN-alpha and IFN gamma suppress the synthesis of IgE by PBMC in response to IL-4. Taken collectively the results indicate that: 1) IL-4 induces IgE-BF production by both B cells and monocytes, 2) IFN-gamma stimulates IgE-BF synthesis by monocytes but suppresses its production by IL-4-stimulated B cells, and finally 3) IFN-alpha inhibits IgE-BF synthesis in response to either IFN-gamma or IL-4. PMID- 2521232 TI - Expression of IL-1 receptors on human peripheral B cells. AB - The expression of IL-1R on human peripheral B cells was analyzed by the binding assay with 125I-labeled human rIL-1 alpha and by the flow cytofluorometry by the use of FITC-conjugated IL-1 alpha. The proliferation and the differentiation of B cells stimulated with Staphylococcus aureus Cowan I (SAC) in the presence of T cell-derived factors were dependent on IL-1. By the binding experiment with 125I labeled IL-1 alpha, B cells expressed only few IL-1R without any stimulations. When they were stimulated with SAC, IL-1R on B cells began to increase by only 1 h, reached the maximum level at 6 h. The binding of 125I-labeled IL-1 alpha to B cells was inhibited by the addition of either cold IL-1 alpha or IL-1 beta suggesting that IL-1R on B cells reactive for IL-1 alpha and IL-1 beta were identical. By Scatchard plot analysis, the existence of two classes of IL-1R on B cells was found. A major class of IL-1R (320 molecules/cell) has a lower affinity (Kd = 3.8 x 10(-10) M) and a minor class of IL-1R (70 molecules/cell) has a higher affinity (Kd = 4.4 x 10(-12) M). When B cells were stimulated with SAC, both lower and higher affinity IL-1R were increased to 1960 molecules/cell and 300 molecules/cell, respectively. Furthermore, IL-1R on B cells were also detected with FITC-conjugated IL-1 alpha by a flow cytofluorometer. Only 3 to 5% of B cells expressed IL-1R without any stimulations. When B cells were stimulated with SAC, IL-1R-positive B cells were increased to 20%. The addition of anti class II antibodies inhibited B cell proliferation and differentiation induced with SAC, IL-1, and T cell-derived factors. Anti-class II antibodies also inhibited the number of IL-1R on B cells. These results suggest that the expression of IL-1R was induced as the initial stage of B cell activation and that class II Ag play an important role for the expression of IL-1R on B cells. PMID- 2521233 TI - Lymphocytes stimulated by allogeneic B cell lines cleave the third component of complement and fix C3 fragments. Their nonspecific lytic capacity is elevated against complement receptor type 2-carrying targets. AB - Human blood lymphocytes stimulated in mixed cultures by allogeneic B cell lines were shown to cleave C3 molecules. The B cell lines were derived from Burkitt lymphoma patients: 1) established from their EBV-negative lymphoma, 2) the EBV positive sublines converted in vitro, and 3) lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCL) i.e., B lymphocytes transformed in vitro by EBV. These cell lines differed considerably in their capacity to stimulate allogeneic lymphocytes. The split products of C3 were detected in the supernatants and on the surface of the activated lymphocytes at levels which correlated with the strength of stimulation. Lymphocytes cultured with LCL had the highest levels of thymidine incorporation blast transformation, C3 cleavage, and C3 fragment fixation. Lymphocytes exposed to the EBV-negative Burkitt lymphomas were stimulated weakly and their C3-activating capacity was low. Irrespective of the efficiency of lymphocyte stimulation induced in the cultures, 60 to 70% of the blasts were found to fix C3 fragments. The majority of the lymphocytes which fixed C3 fragments were T blasts that carried the CD3 marker and expressed IL-2R (CD25). CD4 and CD8 cells were represented with equal frequency in the C3-fragment fixing and C3-fragment negative populations. Pre-exposure of the MLC-activated lymphocytes to human serum increased their cytotoxic capacity toward CR type 2 carrying targets. The enhanced lysis was abrogated by F(ab)2 rabbit anti-human C3d or rabbit anti-CR type 2 antibodies. The results suggest that the C3 fragments fixed on the lymphocytes bind to CR on the targets and elevate the avidity of binding between the two interacting cells. This was also indicated by an increase in the frequency of lymphocyte-target conjugates. PMID- 2521234 TI - Fc gamma R-mediated killing by eosinophils. AB - In this report we present data on the ability of the different Fc gamma R present on eosinophils to mediate killing of erythroid and tumor targets, and on a comparison of eosinophil and neutrophil Fc gamma R-mediated killing. Erythroid target killing was assessed using chicken erythrocytes (CE) and heteroantibodies composed of Fab fragments of anti-CE antibodies covalently coupled to Fab fragments of anti-Fc gamma R antibodies. Such anti-CE x anti-Fc gamma R reagents permit linkage of CE target cells with the FcR molecules on the eosinophil or neutrophil effector cells. Tumor target killing was assessed using hybridoma cell lines (HC) bearing anti-Fc gamma R antibodies on their cell surface. Freshly isolated eosinophils and neutrophils constitutively express similar amounts of the low affinity Fc gamma R, Fc gamma RII on their cell surface, but neither cell type expresses the high affinity Fc gamma R, Fc gamma RI. In contrast, eosinophils have only about 5% as much of the low affinity Fc gamma R found on human granulocytes and large granular lymphocytes (Fc gamma RIII) as neutrophils. Untreated, freshly prepared eosinophils or neutrophils did not lyse any of the anti-Fc gamma R bearing HC nor did they lyse CE in the presence of anti-Fc gamma R containing heteroantibodies. Upon treatment with granulocyte monocyte-CSF (GM CSF), both cell types lysed HC-bearing antibody to Fc gamma RII (HC IV.3A) and CE in the presence of anti-CE x anti-Fc gamma RII heteroantibodies. However, neither cell type lysed HC-bearing antibody to Fc gamma RI or Fc gamma RIII, or CE in the presence of anti-CE x anti-Fc gamma RI HA. Treatment with GM-CSF did not significantly alter the number of Fc gamma R on either cell type. Treatment of neutrophils with IFN-gamma for 18 h induced the expression of Fc gamma RI on these cells and their ability to lyse anti-Fc gamma RI- or Fc gamma RII-bearing HC and CE through Fc gamma RI, Fc gamma RII, and Fc gamma RIII. In contrast, 6-h treatment of eosinophils or neutrophils with IFN-gamma induced neither Fc gamma RI expression on either cell type nor killing of HC or CE through Fc gamma R. In summary, incubation with GM-CSF, induced eosinophils and neutrophils to kill anti Fc gamma RII-bearing HC and to lyse CE through Fc gamma RII. This augmented killing was not associated with enhanced expression of Fc gamma RII.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2521235 TI - Role of lymphokine-secreting CD8+ T cells in cytotoxic T lymphocyte responses against vaccinia virus. AB - The present study has examined the relative role of CD4+ and CD8+ Th cells in the generation and reactivation of antivaccinia virus memory CTL responses. We show that mice primed in vivo to vaccinia virus generate in vitro antivaccinia virus memory CTL responses through both CD4+ and CD8+ Th cell pathways, with the CD4+ Th pathway being the more prominent of the two. In addition, we show that vaccinia virus-specific CD8+ Th cell function is mediated through production of lymphokines, including IL-2, and that the CD8+ Th cell component in the CTL response is labile, decreasing progressively with increasing time after in vivo priming. Thus, this study demonstrates the existence of two phenotypically distinct Th cell pathways in the generation of antivirus CTL responses. PMID- 2521236 TI - A novel gamma delta T cell receptor for antigen adds limited diversity to the gamma delta repertoire in adult thymus. AB - The surface expression of CD3-associated TCR chains on hybridoma cell lines derived from adult gamma delta thymocytes was analyzed. These cell lines were unusual, in that a) they expressed a surface heterodimer consisting of a 40- and a 42-kDa chain, i.e., comprised of chains different from any previously reported gamma delta-TCR all of which express C gamma 1- or C gamma 2-encoded gamma chains; b) their CD3-associated TCR could not be categorized as alpha beta-TCR dimers, despite the similarities in m.w. of the TCR chains, because full size 1.3 kb beta-chain mRNA capable of encoding a functional beta-chain could not be detected in these cells; c) neither of the receptor chains could be precipitated with anti-C gamma 1C gamma 2-peptide antisera. Biochemical analysis demonstrated that the 42-kDa delta-chain is a novel chain, which differs from any reported delta-chains in size, charge and number of glycosylation sites. Collectively, the data on analysis of the 40-kDa chain strongly suggest that it represents a gamma chain encoded for by the C gamma 4 locus, protein products of which have not yet been reported in the thymus. This gamma-chain was also unique, in that its isoelectric point was much lower than that of other gamma-chains. The gamma- and delta-chains on these C gamma 4-expressing hybridomas were indistinguishable from one another in size and charge (as determined by nonequivalent pH gradient electrophoresis/SDS-PAGE analysis and analysis after endoglycosidase treatment). Because the cell lines were randomly chosen from large panels of hybridomas, these results may well imply strikingly nonrandom pairing of thymocyte-derived C gamma 4 chains and the delta-chains reported here. Thus, only limited additional gamma delta repertoire diversity may be generated by availability of this gamma delta-TCR in the thymus. PMID- 2521237 TI - The common acute lymphoblastic leukemia antigen gene maps to chromosomal region 3 (q21-q27). AB - Complementary DNA and genomic clones corresponding to the gene for the common acute lymphoblastic leukemia antigen (CALLA) were used to investigate the genetic structure and location of the CALLA locus. The gene, which encodes a 100-kDa type II transmembrane glycoprotein, appears to be a single copy locus of greater than 45 kb which is not rearranged in malignancies expressing cell surface CALLA. Cell hybrid analysis indicates that the CALLA-related DNA sequences are found on human chromosome 3. In situ hybridization studies reveal the regional location of the CALLA locus to be 3q21-27. PMID- 2521238 TI - Mitotic activities of normal epidermal Langerhans cells. AB - We have previously reported a sequence of events which occurs during the recovery phase of the murine epidermal Langerhans cells (ELCs) after ultraviolet-B irradiation. We found that an ATPase-positive round cell divides, dendrites are gradually formed, and paired dendritic cells are eventually separated as the post irradiation time elapses. We wondered if a series of events similar to this might occur in the normal murine epidermis without irradiation. In this study, we could identify exactly the same phases of the ELC mitotic cycle in normal mouse ear skin. PMID- 2521239 TI - Quantitation and cloning of human urushiol specific peripheral blood T-cells: isolation of urushiol triggered suppressor T-cells. AB - A limiting dilution assay was developed to quantitate urushiol (the antigen of poison ivy; Toxicodendron radicans) specific T cells from peripheral blood of a patient with a history of rhus (poison ivy) dermatitis. It was found that maximal sensitivity with minimal nonspecific proliferation could be produced with the use of 5 U/ml of recombinant IL2 added to the assay on day 6. This donor was found to have a frequency of urushiol specific peripheral blood T cells of (1/2935). Five interleukin 2 (IL2) dependent urushiol specific T-cell clones were generated from the peripheral blood of this patient. These T-cell clones had a CD8+ (T8+) phenotype and proliferated specifically to both extracts of Toxicodendron radicans (poison ivy) leaves and pure urushiol. Pentadecylcatechol was an inferior antigen, only stimulating proliferation of one clone. The ability of all clones to proliferate to pure urushiol, despite their having been induced with leaf extract, suggests that urushiol, or closely related catechols, represent the only allergenic constituents of Toxicodendron radicans. Lymphokine production in response to antigen varied between (0.6-5.0) units/ml of interleukin 2 (IL2) and (1.0-120) units/ml of gamma interferon. Although none of the clones showed significant cytotoxicity against NK targets, three of five lines showed considerable cytotoxicity against concanavalin A treated (lectin approximated) targets. However, cytotoxicity for rhus conjugated autologous targets was not detected. It was found that several of these CD8+ clones could suppress IgG production in the presence of rhus antigen. The isolation of these T-cells from peripheral blood several months after rhus dermatitis suggests that these clones may have a role in down regulating delayed hypersensitivity to urushiol. PMID- 2521240 TI - Plasmin activity and complement activation during storage of citrated platelet concentrates. AB - Platelet concentrates were studied for evidence of plasmin activity and complement activation during a 7-to-10-day storage period. When measured by an amidolytic activity assay, plasmin reached a level of 845 +/- 540 nkats/L on day 7 (n = 9). Fibrin(ogen) degradation product (FDP) levels became markedly elevated on the tenth day of storage, rising to 45 +/- 22 micrograms/ml (n = 5). Antiplasmin levels decreased in platelet concentrates by 18% +/- 6% (n = 5) over 7 days, but there was no significant decrease in stored platelet-poor plasma ( 1.7%, n = 5, p = 0.5). The amount of plasminogen in platelet concentrate converted to plasmin was estimated to be less than 3% by assay of total plasminogen. Supernatant plasma from stored platelet concentrates was examined for the presence of the complement activation peptides C3a and C5a. From day 0 to day 10 of storage, mean C3a levels rose from 327 ng/ml to 6690 ng/ml. An equivalent increase in C3a levels, from 336 ng/ml at day 0 to 6866 ng/ml at day 10, was also observed in stored platelet-poor plasma. C5a was not detected (less than 10 ng/ml) at any point during the storage period; however, we noted a small decrease of borderline significance (p = 0.04) in total C5 from day 0 (117 micrograms/ml) to day 10 (108 micrograms/ml). Only trace amounts of C3 fragments were found on stored platelets, and there was no evidence of the membrane attack complex. These findings indicate the presence of plasmin activity and conversion of C3 during storage of platelet concentrates. PMID- 2521241 TI - Autocrine growth and tumorigenicity of interleukin 2-dependent helper T cells transfected with IL-2 gene. AB - We introduced a mouse IL-2 cDNA expression vector into an IL-2-dependent mouse helper T cell line HT-2. Transfected cells secreted substantial amounts of IL-2, to which they themselves responded by proliferating without further requirement for exogenous IL-2. The proliferation was a direct function of the cell density and was inhibitable by antibodies against IL-2 or IL-2-R, indicating the autocrine nature of the proliferation. Those producing higher amounts of IL-2 were found to be tumorigenic when inoculated into nude mice. The latency period of tumor development correlated inversely with the level of IL-2 secreted. Tumor cells proliferated in vitro in an IL-2 autocrine fashion indistinguishable from that of the inoculated cells. We thus provide evidence that the aberrant activation of the IL-2 autocrine circuit can lead T cells to malignant transformation. PMID- 2521242 TI - Cloning and characterization of a cDNA for a new mouse T cell growth factor (P40). AB - Recently, we described a murine helper T cell-derived molecule with T cell growth factor activity that is functionally and structurally distinct from IL-2, IL-4, and other known growth factors. This molecule, designated P40, was identified as a glycoprotein capable of supporting antigen-independent growth of certain helper T cell clones. Here, we report the cloning and expression of a cDNA for this new growth factor. The predicted mature protein is a cationic cysteine-rich polypeptide of 14 kD without significant homology to previously sequenced proteins. PMID- 2521245 TI - Thoracic dorsal ramus entrapment. Case report. AB - Entrapment of the dorsal ramus of a thoracic spinal nerve is described in a patient with chronic back pain and sensory disturbance in the cutaneous territory served by the T3-5 dorsal rami. The dorsal ramus of the T-4 nerve was found to be compressed by a bone spur involving the inferior T-4 apophyseal facet. The point of entrapment was a tunnel bounded by the transverse process, apophyseal joint, rib, and superior costotransverse ligament. PMID- 2521243 TI - Diversity and organization of human T cell receptor delta variable gene segments. AB - Previous studies of the human TCR-delta gene identified a single commonly used V delta segment, denoted V delta 1. To better understand the extent of the human TCR-delta V gene repertoire, TCR-delta transcripts and gene rearrangements were examined in a new panel of cloned human TCR-gamma/delta lymphocytes. Through this analysis we identified and determined the structures of two new V delta segments, denoted V delta 2 and V delta 3. These V delta segments are different from previously characterized V alpha segments, supporting the notion that the human V delta and V alpha repertoires are distinct. Examination of V gamma gene segment usage in these cells reveals that the V delta 2 gene segment is used in conjunction with the V gamma 2 gene segment. Blot hybridization indicates that the V delta 2 gene segment lies between V delta 1 and D delta-J delta-C delta, and within 100 kb of the latter. Analysis of genomic clones indicates that the V delta 3 gene segment lies in an inverted orientation, approximately 2 kb 3' of C delta. This implies that rearrangement of V delta 3 to D delta-J delta-C delta occurs by inversion. Together with previous mapping studies, these results indicate that human V delta segments are dispersed, rather than clustered, within the TCR-alpha/delta locus. The analysis of rearrangements in polyclonal thymocyte DNA suggests that there may be a limited number of additional V delta gene segments yet to be characterized. PMID- 2521244 TI - Reciprocal expression of interferon gamma or interleukin 4 during the resolution or progression of murine leishmaniasis. Evidence for expansion of distinct helper T cell subsets. AB - We purified poly(A)+ mRNA from the spleen and lymph nodes at designated times after infection with Leishmania major in genetically susceptible BALB/c and resistant C57BL/6 mice. The steady-state levels of IL-2, IFN-gamma, IL-4, and IL 1 beta mRNA were determined using Northern hybridizations. IL-2 mRNA levels in the infected organs of BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice were comparable after infection, but IFN-gamma and IL-4 mRNA levels were reciprocally expressed. Levels of IFN gamma mRNA in C57BL/6 draining nodes and spleen were significantly greater than in BALB/c mice except at 4 and 6 wk of infection, when splenic IFN-gamma mRNA levels were transiently comparable. In contrast, IL-4 mRNA was apparent only in BALB/c and not in C57BL/6 nodes and spleen. Tissue levels of IL-1 beta mRNA were 10-20-fold greater in BALB/c mice. BALB/c mice were pretreated with GK1.5 mAb, a manipulation that promotes healing of subsequent infection by transiently depleting L3T4+ cells. At 8 wk of infection, by which time lymphoid organs were repopulated with L3T4+ cells, GK1.5-pretreated BALB/c mice produced IFN-gamma, but not IL-4 message. Serum levels of IgE were markedly elevated in infected BALB/c, but not in infected C57BL/6 or GK1.5-pretreated BALB/c mice, consistent with in vivo biologic activity of IL-4 in nonhealing mice. Treatment of infected BALB/c mice with neutralizing anti-IL-4 antibody abolished the elevation of serum IgE and significantly attenuated the progression of disease as assessed by size and ulceration of the lesion, and by reduction in the number of tissue parasites. Both protective and deleterious responses to Leishmania infection have previously been shown to be L3T4+ cell dependent. Our findings are consistent with the differential expansion of protective, IFN-gamma-producing Th1 cells in healing mice, and the expansion of deleterious, IL-4-producing Th2 cells in nonhealing mice. The inverse relationship of IFN-gamma and IL-4 gene expression during leishmaniasis may underlie the divergence of cellular and humoral immunity that occurs during chronic infection with Leishmania and possibly other intracellular parasites. PMID- 2521246 TI - Carotid transluminal angioplasty with evidence of distal embolization. Case report. AB - A 57-year-old woman presented with symptomatic triple tandem stenosis of the left carotid artery. Transluminal angioplasty of an atherosclerotic stenosis at the origin of the common carotid artery was performed retrogradely through a distal arteriotomy after endarterectomy. The postangioplasty effluent was collected and analyzed. Cholesterol crystals and amorphous plaque debris were identified, indicating a source for distal embolization. The clinical significance of this small amount of debris embolizing to the intracranial circulation is uncertain, but should be of concern when considering angioplasty of the cerebral circulation. PMID- 2521247 TI - Plasmin-alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor complex and alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor in chronic subdural hematoma. AB - Levels of the plasmin-alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor complex (PLN-A2PI complex) and alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor (A2PI) were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) with monoclonal antibodies in 59 patients with 66 chronic subdural hematomas (SDH's). Normal concentrations of the PLN-A2PI complex and A2PI in plasma are below 0.8 microgram/ml and 60.5 +/- 16.1 micrograms/ml, respectively (mean +/- 2 standard deviations). The hematoma fluid contained high concentrations of the PLN-A2PI complex (4.58 +/- 2.60 micrograms/ml) and low concentrations of A2PI (10.32 +/- 4.81 micrograms/ml), while both values in the plasma of 12 patients with chronic SDH's were within the normal range. This represents local hyperfibrinolytic activity in the hematoma. Stuporous or comatose patients had higher PLN-A2PI complex levels than did the alert and the drowsy or disoriented patients. The layering type of hematoma as seen on computerized tomography scans showed the highest PLN-A2PI complex levels among five types of hematoma. In the fluid drained postoperatively from the subdural cavities of chronic SDH's, both the PLN-A2PI complex and A2PI levels decreased gradually in healing cases. In two patients with hematoma reaccumulation after surgery, both levels increased. The postoperative increase of the PLN-A2PI complex represents the recurrence of intermittent cycles of fibrinolysis, bleeding, coagulation, and hemostasis in the subdural space. PMID- 2521248 TI - Bone marrow transplantation for acute leukemia and Down syndrome: report of a successful case and results of a national survey. AB - We report a child with Down syndrome (DS) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia who is a healthy survivor 38 months after bone marrow transplantation (BMT). Psychometric evaluations performed before and after BMT indicate no demonstrable therapy-related change in intellectual function. A survey of BMT centers in the United States indicated that 16 leukemic DS children have had transplants at 10 BMT centers. Seven of these children survive at 11, 14, 17, 18, 22, 38, and 47 months, respectively, after BMT. Although these results are comparable to those for non-DS children, the number of DS children having transplants is only 20% to 25% of that predicted. We conclude that there is no justification for denial of BMT to otherwise appropriate candidates with DS and leukemia. PMID- 2521250 TI - Bone marrow transplantation, physician bias, and Down syndrome: ethical reflections. PMID- 2521249 TI - Congenital cardiovascular malformations associated with chromosome abnormalities: an epidemiologic study. AB - The Baltimore-Washington Infant Study is a population-based case-control study that seeks to identify risk factors for cardiovascular malformations. Between 1981 and 1986, a total of 2102 infants with cardiovascular malformations were ascertained, among whom 271 (12.9%) also had a chromosome abnormality. Among 2328 random control subjects, only two had a chromosome abnormality. Down syndrome with cardiovascular malformations had a maternal age-adjusted regional prevalence of 4.33/10,000 for the white population and 3.70/10,000 for the nonwhite population. Endocardial cushion defect, the predominant cardiac abnormality in Down syndrome (60.1%), rarely occurred as an isolated cardiac lesion (2.8%). The absence of transpositions and the rarity of heterotaxias and of right- and left sided obstructive lesions in trisomies indicate that there may be a genetic influence on specific embryologic mechanisms. Alimentary tract lesions were more common in Down syndrome than among euploid patients with heart disease and more severe than in control subjects. Urinary tract lesions also occurred in excess of the rate in control subjects. The coexistence of these major malformations with heart disease raises the possibility of incomplete expression of the VA(C)TER (vertebral, anal, cardiac, tracheal, esophageal renal) association. The selective association of chromosome abnormalities with certain cardiovascular defects is now beginning to be explained by reported embryologic studies on cellular characteristics. An explanation of the negative association with transposition and obstructive lesions requires further multidisciplinary studies on genetic and epigenetic factors. PMID- 2521251 TI - Studies on antitumor agents. 8. Antitumor activities of O-alkyl derivatives of 2' deoxy-5-(trifluoromethyl)uridine and 2'-deoxy-5-fluorouridine. AB - O-Benzyl and O-ethyl derivatives of 2'-deoxy-5-(trifluoromethyl)uridine (F3Thd) and 2'-deoxy-5-fluorouridine (FUdR) were synthesized. The oral antitumor activity of the compounds against sarcoma 180 in mice was examined. The 5'-O-ethyl (3b), 3'-O-ethyl (3c), 5'-O-benzyl (3e), and 3'-O-benzyl (3f) derivatives of F3Thd were 4-fold more active than F3Thd itself. Among the substituted-benzyl derivatives of F3Thd, 3'-O-(p-chlorobenzyl)-F3Thd (3h) showed the highest activity, with an ED50 less than one-tenth of that of F3Thd. The activities of 5'-O-benzyl (7c) and 3'-O benzyl (7d) derivatives of FUdR were equal to those of the effective O-alkyl derivatives of F3Thd. PMID- 2521252 TI - 2-(Alkylamino)tetralin derivatives: interaction with 5-HT1A serotonin binding sites. AB - 8-Hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)tetralin (8-OH-DPAT) is a selective 5-HT1A serotonin agonist. Derivatives of 8-OH-DPAT with amine substituents larger or more bulky than n-propyl appear to be inactive in a presynaptic biochemical assay measuring agonist-induced feedback inhibition of 5-HT synthesis but have never been examined in brain binding assays. A series of N-phenylalkyl derivatives of 8 methoxy-2-aminotetralin was evaluated at [3H]-8-OH-DPAT-labeled 5-HT1A sites in rat brain hippocampal membranes. All of the phenylalkyl derivatives displayed significant affinity for these sites and, of the agents examined, the 3 phenylpropyl 8-hydroxy analogue appears to be optimal and had an affinity (Ki = 1.9 nM) comparable to that of 8-OH-DPAT (Ki = 1.2 nM). In addition, the presence of an oxygen-containing substituent at the 8-position of the tetralin ring is not necessary for good affinity, and secondary amines and tertiary amines displayed equal affinity at central 5-HT1A binding sites. 5-HT1A sites are found both pre- and postsynaptically; thus, differences observed in the biochemical assay as compared to the results of the present binding study could be due to different structural requirements of these two receptors. This seems unlikely, however, because there was little difference in the affinities of several selected analogues for striatal versus hippocampal binding sites. Because we have now demonstrated that amine substituents larger than propyl, and an unsubstituted 8 position, are well tolerated by central 5-HT1A sites, future studies aimed at the development of new serotonergic tetralin analogues need not be limited to N propyl or 8-hydroxy derivatives of 2-aminotetralin. PMID- 2521254 TI - Armenian earthquake elicits aid from all, strengthens American-Soviet ties. PMID- 2521255 TI - Management of chronic pain. PMID- 2521253 TI - Stereoelectronic study of zetidoline, a dopamine D2 receptor antagonist. AB - A combination of experimental and theoretical methods were used to investigate the stereoelectronic structure of zetidoline, a dopamine D2 receptor antagonist showing Na+-dependent binding. The solid-state conformation of zetidoline is characterized by synplanarity (coplanarity of the two rings with the chloro substituent and the carbonyl group on the same side). The side chain in the crystal adopts a folded conformation which places the azetidine nitrogen atom at about 8 A from the center of the aromatic ring. Quantum mechanical calculations indicate the synperiplanar and antiperiplanar conformations of the ring system to be of approximately equal energies. The molecular electrostatic potential of zetidoline in a nearly extended conformation shows a remarkable similarity with that of orthopramides (e.g. metoclopramide) and indolones (e.g. piquindone), i.e. two groups of drugs displaying the same D2 selectivity and Na+-dependent binding. We postulate that the close stereoelectronic similarity between zetidoline, orthopramides, and indolones accounts for their identical mechanism of action in the molecular level. PMID- 2521256 TI - The vascular war of 1988: the enemy is met. PMID- 2521257 TI - The vascular war of 1988. PMID- 2521258 TI - Atheroma curettage: an idea whose time may come as several devices begin trials. PMID- 2521260 TI - Coincidental detection of Down's syndrome during prenatal testing for Huntington's disease. PMID- 2521259 TI - The effects of streptozotocin on rates of glucose utilization, oxidation, and production in the sheep fetus. AB - Streptozotocin was injected into chronically catheterized, late gestation fetal sheep to produce hypoinsulinemia and to investigate the effects of hypoinsulinemia on the rates of utilization and production of glucose. Each fetus received two IV doses of streptozotocin (100 mg/kg estimated fetal weight per dose). Experiments were conducted before and five to six days after giving the streptozotocin. Experiments consisted of direct measurement of fetal glucose utilization rate (using [U-14C]glucose tracer) and umbilical glucose uptake rate (Fick principle) during basal and glucose infusion periods. Fetal endogenous production rate was calculated as the difference between rates of fetal glucose utilization and umbilical glucose uptake. Following streptozotocin injections the rate of fetal glucose utilization was reduced (5.50 +/- 0.34 to 4.13 +/- 0.32 mg/kg/min) as was the rate of fetal CO2 production from fetal glucose carbon oxidation (91.7 +/- 5.3 to 71.7 +/- 6.0 mumol/kg/min) and the rate of fetal glucose oxidation (2.75 +/- 0.16 to 2.15 +/- 0.18 mg/kg/min). At the same time the rate of fetal endogenous glucose production was enhanced (0.31 +/- 0.18 to 2.06 +/- 0.28 mg/kg/min). These changes in glucose metabolism were accompanied by hypoinsulinemia (16 +/- 2 to 8 +/- 1 muU/mL), an inhibition of insulin secretion in response to glucose infusion (16 +/- 2 to 34 +/- 2 muU/mL control, 8 +/- 1 to 9 +/- 1 muU/mL after streptozotocin), hyperglycemia (19.5 +/- 0.7 to 30.4 +/- 1.7 mg/dL), and a reduction in the rate of umbilical glucose uptake (5.19 +/- 0.34 to 2.07 +/- 0.40 mg/kg/min). The disturbances in glucose metabolism could be alleviated only in part by insulin infusion.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521262 TI - Pedal pusher's palsy. PMID- 2521261 TI - Humic acids inhibit the formation but not the mutagenicity of N-methyl-N nitrosourea. AB - Humic acids in the form of potassium humate (KH), at concentrations exerting a strong inhibitory effect on the formation of N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU) when present during the nitrosation of N-methylurea (MU) at pH 3, did not reduce the mutagenicity of preformed MNU in Tradescantia, clone 4430. The inhibitory effect of 20 mg/ml KH corresponds approximately to that of 3.75 mM (0.66 mg/ml) ascorbic acid towards the formation of MNU from the mixture of 7.5 mM MU + 7.5 mM NaNO2. PMID- 2521263 TI - Identification of mononuclear cells in CSF of patients with HIV infection. AB - Using immunocytochemical methods, CSF lymphocyte subpopulations were examined in different neurologic disorders associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. CSF pleocytosis was observed in asymptomatic neurologically normal subjects, in patients with aseptic meningitis, and those with inflammatory demyelinating neuropathies, but infrequently in subjects with AIDS dementia complex. The distribution of CSF lymphocyte subpopulations in HIV-infected patients differed from control subjects showing decreases in percentages of T helper (CD4) cells and increases in T suppressor (CD8) cells. Peripheral blood and CSF CD4:CD8 ratios were inverted in all of the neurologic disorders studied. In all disorders, the changes in CSF composition of mononuclear cells paralleled alterations in peripheral blood and in patients with AIDS dementia complex, there was a relationship between the severity of dementia and blood and CSF CD4 lymphocyte proportions. PMID- 2521264 TI - How gene activators work. PMID- 2521265 TI - Mapping of a phosphorylation site in the 176R (19 kDa) early region 1B protein of human adenovirus type 5. AB - The 176-residue (176R) early region 1B (E1B) protein of human adenovirus type 5 (Ad5) was shown to be phosphorylated at serine in lytically infected KB cells at a level estimated to be about one phosphate group per 28 176R molecules. Through the analysis of peptides generated by cleavage with cyanogen bromide and Staphylococcus aureus V-8 protease the phosphorylation site was mapped to Ser 164. Using site-directed mutagenesis, a mutant was produced in which the codon for Ser-164 was changed to that of asparagine while leaving the coding sequence for the overlapping 496R protein unchanged. This virus, which replicated well on human KB cells, produced normal levels of 176R, but in an unphosphorylated form. The mutant transformed baby rat kidney cells in cooperation with E1A at an efficiency about one-half that obtained with wt E1B. These data therefore gave little indication that phosphorylation is essential for the function of 176R. PMID- 2521266 TI - The myocardium in congestive heart failure. AB - It is now apparent that the myocardium in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) is not normal, because important structural and molecular changes modify function in these hearts. It appears likely that the myocardium in these patients with CHF becomes unable to provide enough chemical energy to meet its mechanical requirements. If this interpretation is correct, the resulting condition of "energy starvation" would have several important implications for therapy. For example, inotropic stimulation, by increasing energy expenditure, could contribute to the progressive myocardial cell death that characterizes end-stage cardiac hypertrophy. Conversely, the reduction in myocardial contractility that develops in the chronically over-loaded heart reduces myocardial energy expenditure, and changes in the expression of myosin isoforms improve cardiac efficiency. Therefore, an important goal of therapy in the patient with CHF is to reduce energy expenditure by unloading the failing heart and, in some cases, by administration of negative inotropic drugs. PMID- 2521267 TI - Effect of phosphodiesterase inhibition on myocardial oxygen consumption and coronary blood flow. AB - The phosphodiesterase inhibitors (amrinone, milrinone and enoximone) can cause major improvement in the performance of the failing heart without increasing myocardial oxygen consumption. This appears to be the result of a reduction in left ventricular systolic wall stress due to peripheral arteriolar vasodilatation, which offsets the increase in myocardial oxygen consumption that would otherwise result from an enhanced inotropic state. In comparison, catecholamine agents such as dobutamine, given at doses that achieve the same level of inotropic enhancement or improved left ventricular performance, produce less associated arteriolar vasodilatation and a significant (approximately 30%) increase in myocardial oxygen consumption. This difference between the phosphodiesterase inhibitors and the conventional catecholamine agents may be of clinical importance in patients with limited coronary flow reserve due to severe congestive heart failure. PMID- 2521268 TI - Controlled and uncontrolled studies of phosphodiesterase III inhibitors in contemporary cardiovascular medicine. AB - The phosphodiesterase inhibitors are new inotrope vasodilators that have beneficial hemodynamic effects in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF). The most extensively studied agents are milrinone and enoximone. Both drugs have clearly been shown in numerous studies to improve hemodynamics in patients with CHF when given acutely by either the intravenous or oral route. In long-term studies, milrinone has been shown to have sustained beneficial hemodynamic effects during active treatment. Effects on exercise tolerance have been less clear-cut in several uncontrolled trials, but a recent large-scale randomized trial does show sustained improvement in exercise performance. When milrinone is withdrawn after long-term therapy, some studies show worsened cardiac performance; the exact cause remains ill-defined, but could be due to deterioration of baseline ventricular function or to "rebound." Both uncontrolled studies and a large recently reported randomized trial show that the hemodynamic response to readministration of milrinone after withdrawal is well-preserved, i.e., no tolerance is observed. Studies of enoximone show that its acute hemodynamic effects are similar to those of milrinone, but its long-term efficacy, using both hemodynamic and exercise end points, is less clear-cut, and no large-scale randomized trials of enoximone therapy have yet been reported. The studies of both these agents performed thus far indicate that the phosphodiesterase inhibitors have considerable promise for both acute and long term treatment of patients with CHF. PMID- 2521269 TI - Electrocardiographic left ventricular hypertrophy and effects of antihypertensive drug therapy in hypertensive participants in the Multiple Risk Factor Intervention Trial. AB - Data are reported on electrocardiographic left ventricular hypertrophy (ECG LVH) among 8,012 men classified as hypertensive at baseline in the Multiple Risk Factor Intervention Trial. Compared with those allocated to the usual care (UC) control group, men allocated to the special intervention (SI) group experienced a mean reduction of 4 mm Hg in diastolic blood pressure and 7 mm Hg in systolic blood pressure, over 6 years of follow-up. There were 378 new cases of ECG LVH during follow-up; the incidence in the SI group was about 23% less than that in the UC group (4.2 vs 5.4% 2P less than 0.01). Among the 189 men with ECG LVH at baseline, those in the SI group experienced about 24% more annual follow-up visits at which they were free of ECG LVH (4.6 vs 3.7 visits; 2P less than 0.01). This reduced incidence and increased reversal of ECG LVH in the SI group compared with that in the UC group was consistent with significant overall reductions (2P less than 0.001) among SI men in mean wave amplitude in those leads in which voltage is correlated with left ventricular mass (T wave in V1, R wave in aVL and S wave in V3). In SI and UC groups combined, the presence of ECG LVH either at baseline or at follow-up was associated with several-fold increases in death from cardiovascular diseases in general, and death from coronary artery disease in particular.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521270 TI - Relation of atrial natriuretic factor to vasoconstrictor hormones and regional blood flow in congestive heart failure. AB - Plasma levels of both atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) and vasoconstrictor neurohormones are often increased in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF). It has been speculated that ANF is a counterregulatory hormone that influences regional blood flow and sodium balance in human patients by either direct vasorelaxation or by inhibiting the release of other vasoconstrictor neurohormones. The exact relation of increased ANF levels to regional vascular resistance and vasoconstrictor neurohormones has not previously been documented. Thus, we examined the relation between plasma ANF levels, levels of vasoconstrictor neurohormones, and forearm, splanchnic and renal blood flow in 20 normal subjects and in 17 patients with chronic CHF. The plasma ANF level was directly correlated with the plasma norepinephrine concentration (r = 0.83, p less than 0.01), plasma epinephrine concentration (r = 0.46, p less than 0.01), plasma renin activity (r = 0.50, p less than 0.01), plasma angiotensin II concentration (r = 0.79, p less than 0.01) and plasma vasopressin concentrations (r = 0.65, p less than 0.01). Positive correlations existed between plasma ANF levels and the calculated vascular resistances, i.e., between ANF and forearm vascular resistance (r = 0.41, p less than 0.05), splanchnic vascular resistance (r = 0.74, p less than 0.01) and renal vascular resistance (r = 0.66, p less than 0.05).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521271 TI - Effect of reducing atrial pressure on atrial natriuretic factor and vasoactive hormones in congestive heart failure secondary to ischemic and nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy. AB - The effect of an acute and sustained reduction in atrial pressure on atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) and vasoactive hormone secretion was studied in 9 patients with congestive heart failure (CHF). Intravenous nitroglycerin was titrated to reduce the pulmonary artery wedge pressure by 30 to 50% and maintain this reduction for 4 hours. After 60 minutes of nitroglycerin administration, the mean decrement in wedge pressure was 10.0 +/- 1.7 (standard error) mm Hg (35%) and plasma ANF was 65.3 +/- 13.9 pmol/liter (35%). The initial decrease, sustained reduction and later increase in plasma ANF levels closely paralleled the changes in pulmonary arterial wedge (r = 0.94, p less than 0.0001) and right atrial pressures (r = 0.91, p less than 0.0001) during and immediately after the nitroglycerin infusion. Plasma aldosterone and cortisol levels increased during the first 2 hours of the nitroglycerin infusion, but there was little change in plasma norepinephrine or plasma renin activity. Although levels were elevated in CHF, plasma ANF still responded rapidly to changes in atrial pressure. A sustained reduction in pressure produced a sustained reduction in ANF levels. These findings provide further support for a regulatory role of ANF, even in chronic CHF. PMID- 2521272 TI - Pulsed Doppler assessment of left ventricular diastolic filling in children with left ventricular outflow obstruction before and after balloon angioplasty. AB - To assess left ventricular (LV) diastolic filling in children with pressure overload hypertrophy, 12 patients with LV outflow obstruction (7 with aortic valve stenosis and 5 with aortic coarctation) and 12 healthy, age-matched control subjects were examined. Each child underwent M-mode echocardiography and pulsed Doppler examination of the LV inflow. The patients with LV outflow obstruction had cardiac catheterization and balloon angioplasty. Their echo/Doppler examinations were performed in the catheterization laboratory before and immediately after balloon angioplasty. From the M-mode echocardiogram, the LV cavity dimensions and wall thicknesses, LV mass and shortening fraction were measured. The following measurements were made from the Doppler recording: peak velocities at rapid ventricular filling (peak E) and during atrial contraction (peak A), ratio of peak E to peak A velocities, total area under the Doppler curve, percent of the total Doppler area occurring in the first one-third of diastole (0.33 area fraction), percent of the total area occurring under the E wave (E area fraction), percent of the total area occurring under the A wave (A area fraction) and the ratio of E area to A area.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521273 TI - Left ventricular hypertrophy in persons age 90 years and older. AB - Clinical, electrocardiographic and echocardiographic findings of 32 patients age 90 years or older were analyzed to assess the prevalence, characteristics and correlates of left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy. All patients (mean age 92 years, range 90 to 98; 21 women and 11 men) were referred to the echocardiography laboratory with a definite or suspected cardiovascular diagnosis. LV hypertrophy, echocardiographically diagnosed by high LV mass index, was present in 28 patients. The LV mass index ranged from 105 to 215 g/m2 in men and 140 to 262 g/m2 in women. Electrocardiographic evaluation showed LV hypertrophy in only 5 patients. Five patients had low voltage on the electrocardiogram. There was no correlation between the LV mass index and presence of electrocardiographic LV hypertrophy or presence of low voltage on the electrocardiogram. LV hypertrophy was concentric in 19 and eccentric in 9. There was no correlation between types of LV hypertrophy and underlying cardiovascular disease or presence of electrocardiographic LV hypertrophy. It is concluded that LV hypertrophy is frequently present and has a wide range and heterogeneous character in very elderly patients with cardiovascular disease. In the tenth decade of life, echocardiography is a sensitive method for detecting, characterizing and classifying LV hypertrophy, whereas electrocardiography lacks sensitivity in detecting it. PMID- 2521274 TI - Emerging strategies for failed percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. PMID- 2521275 TI - Electrocardiographic RV6:RV5 voltage ratio for diagnosis of left ventricular hypertrophy. PMID- 2521276 TI - Coagulation studies in thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, with special reference to von Willebrand factor and protein S. AB - The profile of blood coagulation and fibrinolysis was studied in detail in eight patients with acute thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). In the majority of the patients, fibrinogen, factor XIII, antithrombin III, alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor, plasminogen, and alpha 2-macroglobulin were normal, whereas FDP, plasmin-alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor complex, and tissue-type plasminogen activator antigen were marginally or moderately elevated. Low fibronectin values were observed in four patients. Protein C and C4b-binding protein were nearly normal, whereas total protein S and free protein S were reduced in five and six patients, respectively. A positive correlation was found between total protein S and C4 and between free protein S and C3. von Willebrand factor antigen (vWf:Ag) and ristocetin cofactor (RCof) were either normal or elevated, but RCof/vWf:Ag ratio was decreased in seven patients. Crossed immunoelectrophoresis and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS)-agarose gel electrophoresis revealed that the large vWf multimers were either absent from or relatively decreased in all patients except one. In addition, one patient had unusually large vWf multimers, and a low-molecular weight vWf fragment was apparently observed in three patients. These findings indicate that the intravascular generation of thrombin and plasmin was minimal in TTP and suggest that the alterations of the vWf molecule were caused not only by consumption through its participation in platelet thrombus formation but also by accelerated proteolysis. Low protein S values would be related to the immunological abnormalities underlying TTP. PMID- 2521278 TI - Hepatic artery versus portal vein and systemic infusion of fluorodeoxyuridine of rabbit VX-2 hepatic implants. AB - To compare the efficacy of regional and systemic infusions of hepatic tumors, and to correlate this with tumor perfusion, 29 New Zealand white rabbits underwent perfusion of VX-2 hepatic implants. Tritium-labeled fluorodeoxyuridine (H3-FUDR) and technetium-99m-labeled macroaggregated albumin (Tc 99m-MAA) were infused through the hepatic artery, portal vein, and peripheral vein. Hepatic artery infusion resulted in a significantly improved tumor-to-liver ratio of FUDR uptake (p less than 0.001). The increased tumor uptake correlated with a two-fold increase in tumor arterial blood flow as compared with normal liver demonstrated by the MAA infusion. We conclude that infusional therapy is superior to both portal vein and systemic infusions. Portal vein infusion results in no uptake of drug by the tumor. Hepatic artery scintigraphy with MAA may be useful in selecting appropriate patients for this type of therapy. PMID- 2521277 TI - Immunologic assessment of a cluster of asymptomatic HTLV-I-infected individuals in New Orleans. AB - PURPOSE: Although clusters of individuals infected with the human T-cell lymphotrophic virus type I (HTLV-I) have been identified in the United States, no systematic evaluation of the immunologic status of these persons has been reported. We therefore studied a group of 11 HTLV-I-infected former intravenous drug abusers who were long-term participants in a methadone maintenance program in New Orleans, Louisiana, to determine the effects of HTLV-I and chronic opiate use on immunity. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Mitogenic responses and results of serologic studies, cell phenotype analysis, and cytotoxicity assays were compared to those in two other HTLV-I seronegative groups: a similar group of 17 methadone users and 15 healthy age-, sex-, and race-matched control subjects. All study participants were seronegative for human immunodeficiency virus type 1. RESULTS: Percentages and numbers of total T lymphocytes (CD2+,CD3+), T suppressor/cytotoxic lymphocytes (CD8+), cytotoxic lymphocytes (Leu7+, Leu11+, NKH-1+) and B lymphocytes (B4+) were similar among the study groups. Although percentages and numbers of total T-helper lymphocytes (CD4+) were also similar among the groups, HTLV-I-infected subjects had higher percentages and proportions of helper/inducer cells (CD4:4B4+) than did HTLV-I seronegative methadone users. Both methadone using groups had decreased percentages and numbers of suppressor/inducer T lymphocytes (CD4:2H4+). Major histocompatibility complex unrestricted T-cell cytotoxicity (lectin-dependent cellular cytotoxicity), natural killer cell function, and mitogenic responses to the T-cell mitogen phytohemagglutin were similar among the three study groups. Pokeweed mitogen responses were severely depressed in the HTLV-I-infected population. CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that HTLV-I infection is associated with abnormalities in T-cell dependent B-cell proliferative responses. Furthermore, both long-term methadone use and HTLV-I infection are associated with abnormalities in the distribution of CD4+ cell subpopulations. The increase in the helper/inducer and T-cell cell populations and decrease in the pokeweed mitogenic response noted in HTLV-I infected subjects appear to be markers for infection with this retrovirus. PMID- 2521279 TI - Sufentanil pharmacokinetics in patients with cirrhosis. AB - The effects of cirrhosis on the elimination kinetics and plasma protein binding of sufentanil were evaluated in 12 anesthetized patients with uncomplicated cirrhosis and these findings were compared with data from age-matched control anesthetized patients with normal hepatic and renal function. Sufentanil 3 micrograms/kg was given intravenously as a bolus injection and venous plasma concentrations were measured at intervals up to 10 hrs. The average (+/- SD) elimination half life was 3.5 +/- 0.9 hrs in controls and did not differ in cirrhotics: 4.1 +/- 0.6 hrs. The plasma clearance did not differ between the two groups: 11.3 +/- 2.5 ml.min-1.kg-1 in controls and 10.8 +/- 4.6 ml.min-1.kg-1 in cirrhotic patients. The sufentanil free fraction was also similar in controls (8.3 +/- 1.5%) and in cirrhotic patients (9.6 +/- 1.8%). These data suggest that sufentanil in a single dose should have a similar duration of action in patients with uncomplicated cirrhosis and in normal patients. PMID- 2521280 TI - Plasma atrial natriuretic polypeptide and angiotensin II in rats during anesthesia and volume loading. AB - These experiments investigated the effect of halothane or fentanyl anesthesia on plasma atrial natriuretic polypeptide (ANP) and angiotensin II (AII) concentrations and the response to a 30% blood volume load in rats. Halothane (1.1% and 2.2% inspired) or fentanyl (50 and 200 micrograms/kg) anesthesia alone produced little change in basal plasma ANP levels but did increase plasma AII levels above unanesthetized baseline concentrations. A 30% blood volume load in conscious rats produced a transient increase in blood pressure and central venous pressure, a threefold rise in plasma ANP, and a decrease in AII. These effects were not significantly altered by fentanyl anesthesia. In contrast, during 2.2% halothane anesthesia the increase in plasma ANP produced by volume loading was greater and the decrease in AII was abolished. These results indicate that fentanyl does not increase basal ANP levels or markedly change the hormonal response to a volume load. Altered responses seen during deep halothane anesthesia may result from cardiovascular changes or a direct stimulation of physiological mechanisms that release ANP. PMID- 2521281 TI - Effect of increased intra-abdominal pressure during laparoscopy on the lower esophageal sphincter. PMID- 2521282 TI - Cessation of shivering and hypothermia associated with epidural sufentanil. PMID- 2521283 TI - Clinical experience of percutaneous coronary angioscopy in cases with coronary artery disease. AB - Direct visualization of the coronary arteries was performed by using a new ultrathin angioscopic catheter system in experimental animals and 4 patients with coronary artery disease during percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA). In this catheter system, inspection of the coronary arteries was achieved during washout of blood by bolus infusion of 8-10 ml of saline into the coronary artery through the guide catheter. In the preliminary experience with this coronary angioscopic system, there were some limitations. In 2 patients, removal of coronary blood by manual injection of saline was not adequate, and diagnostic TV images could not be obtained. In 2 patients with tortuous coronary arteries, the catheter could not pass to the atheromatous plaques owing to lack of flexibility of the fiberoptic catheter. Furthermore, angina pectoris occurred in 2 patients during angioscopy, owing probably to interference with coronary blood flow by the guide catheter and/or fiberoptic catheter itself. For future clinical application of coronary angioscopy, further improvements in the instrument are necessary. PMID- 2521284 TI - Effects of calcium antagonists and nitroglycerin on atrial natriuretic peptide in normal subjects and patients with essential hypertension. AB - Acute effects of coronary vasodilators (nifedipine, nicardipine, and nitroglycerin) on atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and the renin-angiotensin aldosterone system were studied in normal subjects and patients with essential hypertension. Nifedipine lowered blood pressure both in normal subjects and in patients and elevated ANP, plasma renin activity, and angiotensin II in normal subjects but not in hypertensive patients. Nicardipine lowered blood pressure but failed to elevate ANP and angiotensin II in normal subjects. Nitroglycerin failed to elevate ANP in normal subjects. PMID- 2521285 TI - Angioplasty of bilateral renal artery occlusion--a case report. AB - Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of the renal arteries is a commonly performed procedure. The authors report a case of bilateral recanalization and dilation of occluded renal arteries in a young female. In this case, the procedure allowed for conservative management rather than emergency surgery, which would have been exceedingly hazardous to the patient's renal function and life. PMID- 2521286 TI - Congenital ichthyosiform dermatosis with linear keratotic flexural papules and sclerosing palmoplantar keratoderma. AB - Four members of a consanguineous family showed a congenital disorder characterized by an ichthyosiform dermatosis, sclerosing palmoplantar keratoderma, and multiple keratotic papules arranged in bands with a linear, cordlike distribution. This association seems to represent a distinct entity. The differential diagnosis is described. PMID- 2521287 TI - Acne fulminans associated with painful splenomegaly. PMID- 2521289 TI - Photodynamic therapy for esophageal tumors. AB - Between 1982 and 1987, 40 patients with esophageal tumors (19 adenocarcinomas, 19 squamous carcinomas, and two melanomas) in whom conventional treatments were unsuccessful were treated with photodynamic therapy (PDT) after injection with either hematoporphyrin derivative or dihematoporphyrin ether. Patients underwent endoscopy again two to three days and one month after PDT and as needed when symptoms recurred. At one month, the average minimal diameter opening of 28 assessable tumors increased from 6 to 9 mm. Of the 35 patients who could be evaluated one month after PDT, the average improvement in food intake was from a liquid to a soft diet. Average survival time (from time of first treatment) was 7.7 months (n = 17) for adenocarcinoma, 5.8 months (n = 12) for squamous cell carcinoma, and 25 months (n = 2) for melanoma. Two patients with stage I adenocarcinoma were alive with no evidence of disease at 11 and 23 months. One patient with stage I squamous cell cancer died 18 months after PDT, with recurrence of tumor above the treated area noted eight months after treatment. One patient with stage I melanoma died of a synchronous colon cancer 31 months after PDT, with no evidence of residual melanoma. PMID- 2521288 TI - Clear cell sarcoma. An immunohistochemical analysis of six cases and comparison with other epithelioid neoplasms of soft tissue. AB - Clear cell sarcoma (CCS) is an uncommon, clinicopathologically distinct neoplasm that typically arises in association with tendons and aponeuroses. It shares several histologic and ultrastructural features with malignant melanoma. Clear cell sarcoma occasionally may be confused with other tumors of soft tissue that have a predominantly epithelioid appearance, including epithelioid leiomyosarcoma, epithelioid neurofibrosarcoma, synovial sarcoma, and epithelioid sarcoma. To assess the potential contribution of immunohistochemistry to this differential diagnosis, a panel of immunostains was applied to examples of each of these neoplasms. All six CCSs contained vimentin, and five were reactive with the melanoma-specific monoclonal antibody HMB-45. In addition, five CCSs expressed neuron-specific enolase, four cases displayed S100 protein, and four examples contained LN3 antigen. Synaptophysin and Leu-7 antigen were present in one case each. Cytokeratin, epithelial membrane antigen, carcinoembryonic antigen, desmin, muscle-specific actin, and leukocyte common antigen were invariably absent. No other primary epithelioid neoplasm of soft tissue reacted with HMB-45. Clear cell sarcoma could be separated from epithelioid leiomyosarcoma by the presence of desmin and muscle-specific actin in the latter neoplasm. Similarly, both synovial sarcoma and epithelioid sarcoma differed from CCS by their expression of cytokeratin and epithelial membrane antigen. Clear cell sarcoma and malignant melanoma were immunohistochemically indistinguishable, supporting the concept that they share a common pattern of differentiation. PMID- 2521290 TI - Immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory properties of a major protein secreted from the epithelium of the rat seminal vesicles. AB - The nonspecies specific immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory properties of a major protein (SV-IV) secreted from the epithelium of rat seminal vesicles (SV) are described. To detect the immunosuppressive effect, peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) were pretreated for 2 hr at 37 degrees with SV-IV, and the protein was maintained in the incubation medium during the whole culture time. We obtained evidence that, during preincubation of PBL and SV-IV the protein was transformed by a transglutaminase (TGase) released from PBL into modified low and high molecular weight forms able to bind to PBL surfaces. It is suggested that T lymphocytes are the possible targets of the immunosuppressive effect. SV-IV seems to inhibit only the early phase of the proliferative response of T lymphocytes to mitogens without having any direct effect on the enzymatic system involved in DNA synthesis. Moreover, the protein SV-IV was also shown to possess an anti inflammatory property due to a block of the arachidonic acid cascade at the level of the enzyme phospholipase A2 (PLA2). The physiological significance of the immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory properties of SV-IV are discussed in relation to different aspects of the mammalian reproduction. PMID- 2521291 TI - Inactivation of human factor VIII by activated protein C: evidence that the factor VIII light chain contains the activated protein C binding site. AB - Factor VIII is represented as a series of heterodimers composed of an 83(81) kDa light chain noncovalently bound to a variable size (93 to 210 kDa) heavy chain. Activated protein C inactivates factor VIII causing several cleavages of the factor VIII heavy chain(s). When factor VIII subunits were dissociated and component heavy and light chains isolated, the heavy chains were no longer a substrate for proteolysis by activated protein C. However, when factor VIII heavy chains were recombined with light chain, the reconstituted factor VIII activity was inactivated by activated protein C. The rate of factor VIII inactivation catalyzed by activated protein C was reduced by the presence of free light chain. The extent of this inhibition was dependent upon the concentration of light chain. Control experiments indicated that this protective effect of free light chain was not the result of inhibition of the activated protein C - lipid interaction. Fluorescence analysis demonstrated binding between the factor VIII light chain, chemically modified with eosin maleimide, and activated protein C, modified at its active site by dansyl-Glu-Gly-Arg chloromethyl ketone. Similar to proteolysis of factor VIII by activated protein C, this binding was dependent upon a lipid surface. Based upon the degree of fluorescence quenching, a spatial distance of 26 A was calculated separating the two fluorophores. These results demonstrate direct binding of activated protein C to the factor VIII light chain and suggest that this binding is an obligate step for activated protein C catalyzed inactivation of factor VIII. PMID- 2521292 TI - In situ hybridization histochemistry localization of interleukin-3 mRNA in mouse brain. AB - The hematopoietic growth factor interleukin-3 (IL-3) promotes the proliferation and maturation of pluripotent myeloid progenitor cells. In the immune system, IL 3 is synthesized by mitogen or antigen-stimulated T lymphocytes. We demonstrate the expression of IL-3 mRNA in mouse brain by in situ hybridization histochemistry and Northern blot analysis. The IL-3 mRNA is localized in discrete areas of the brain and can be found in neuronal cell body and astrocytes. Northern analysis of cerebellar RNA, compared with mRNA extracted from WEHI-3 cells, showed a single hybridization band, approximately 1.2 kb, suggesting similar processing between brain and myeloid cells. The molecular evidence and previous observations of IL-3-like biologic activity found in the brain suggest a potential role for IL-3 in the neurobiology of the CNS. PMID- 2521293 TI - Activation/inactivation of human factor V by plasmin. AB - The effect of human plasmin on human coagulation factor V was studied using isolated proteins. Incubation of factor V with plasmin resulted in a rapid increase in procoagulant activity, followed by a subsequent decline in the ability of factor V to serve as a cofactor in the prothrombinase complex. Identical results were obtained when these reactions were conducted in the presence of dansylarginine-N-(3-ethyl-1,5-pentanediyl) amide (DAPA), indicating that the changes observed could not have occurred as a consequence of cleavage by alpha-thrombin. Analysis of the products of the reaction by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) revealed a temporal correlation between the rise and fall in factor V activity and the presence of several transient intermediates. These fragments are distinct from the subunits of alpha-thrombin-activated factor V (factor Va). The activation phase of the reaction was not significantly affected by the presence of phospholipid. In contrast, the rate of degradation of active fragments of factor V and the accompanying loss of activity were markedly enhanced in the presence of phospholipid vesicles. These data suggest that the action of plasmin upon factor V results in the transient formation of proteolytic fragments which express significant procoagulant activity. PMID- 2521294 TI - Increased serum CD8 antigen level in childhood Hodgkin's disease relates to advanced stage and poor treatment outcome. AB - Measurement of the soluble form of CD8 antigen, a surface membrane component of suppressor/cytotoxic T cells, has yielded useful information relevant to prognosis in the lymphoid malignancies of childhood. We therefore determined pretreatment levels of serum CD8 antigen in 90 children with newly diagnosed Hodgkin's disease. The findings ranged widely, from 220 to 2,585 U/mL (median, 556 U/mL). In patients with advanced disease (stage III or IV), the median serum CD8 level was significantly higher than in those with less disease extension (stage I or II): 675 v 477 U/mL, P = .003. It was also higher in children with B symptoms compared with all others: 622 v 494 U/mL, P = .005. Cases with a histologic classification of mixed cellularity had a significantly higher median level of the antigen than did those classified as nodular sclerosis: 847 v 509 U/mL, P = .005. Finally, higher serum CD8 levels (greater than 430 U/mL) were significantly associated with an increased probability of treatment failure (P = .02). In a multivariate analysis, serum CD8 level retained its impact on treatment outcome after adjustment for other potentially useful prognostic factors, including disease stage, presence of B symptoms, histology, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, sex, age, and race. The prognostic strength shown by soluble CD8 in this analysis suggests that the antigen has clinical value. We postulate that increased CD8 levels in serum indicate enhanced suppressor T-cell activity, which may compromise the host's antitumor immunity, leading to unusually aggressive disease. PMID- 2521295 TI - Surgical treatment of fungal mycetoma. AB - Chemotherapy for chronic fungal infections is often ineffective, and the associated delay in surgical treatment may result in radical procedures being performed to effect a cure. The author describes four patients with chronic fungal lesions, three involving a foot and one the abdominal wall, all of which failed to respond to antifungal chemotherapy. The lesions were excised, using procedures aimed at preserving function. Infection recurred in two patients during a 9-month follow-up. The author concludes that surgical therapy should be instituted early in the disease to forestall spread to deeper structures and preserve functional integrity of the affected parts. PMID- 2521296 TI - A phase I clinical trial of combined fluoropyrimidines with leucovorin in a 14 day infusion. Demonstration of biochemical modulation. AB - Two consecutive Phase I trials of continuous infusion 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) or floxuridine (5-FUdR) admixed with leucovorin (LCV) were performed and involved 19 and 24 patients, respectively. The studies were carried out to identify the optimal dose rate of delivery for the two admixtures (5-FU + LCV and 5-FUdR + LCV) administered for 14 days, and to determine if biochemical modulation could be identified. The optimal dose rates for 5-FU plus LCV were 200 mg/m2/d and 5 mg/m2/d, respectively. The optimal dose rates for 5-FUdR plus LCV were 0.075 mg/kg/d and 5 mg/m2/d, respectively. The dose rate limiting toxicity for 5-FU plus LCV was stomatitis and for 5-FUdR plus LCV it was diarrhea. LCV administered as an admixture with either 5-FU or 5-FUdR on an infusion schedule decreases the optimally tolerated dose rates for these two agents to 83% and 60%, respectively. This is achieved with low-dose LCV infusions. PMID- 2521297 TI - Mucocutaneous side effects of Brequinar sodium. A new inhibitor of pyrimidine de novo biosynthesis. AB - Brequinar sodium (NSC 368390; DUP 785) is a new inhibitor of pyrimidine de novo biosynthesis which has completed Phase I clinical trials within the framework of the Early Clinical Trials Group of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC). The main side effects of this compound are myelosuppression, nausea and vomiting, stomatitis and/or mucositis, and skin rash. In this report, the authors describe the pattern of mucocutaneous side effects of Brequinar sodium in patients who received the drug by four different schedules: (1) short-term intravenous (IV) infusion every 3 weeks; (2) weekly; (3) twice weekly; and (4) five times daily every 4 weeks. Mucocutaneous toxicities of Brequinar sodium included mainly cytotoxic reactions (stomatitis and/or mucositis and skin rash). However, rare episodes of local reactions (phlebitis at the site of injection), photosensitivity reactions (to sun light), angioneurotic edema, and localized secondary hyperpigmentation of the inflamed skin also occurred. Stomatitis and/or mucositis appeared to be dose-dependent and schedule-dependent. The skin rash consisted of a drug-induced toxic dermatitis which occurred mostly at the highest dose levels. Initial recommendations for the management of mucocutaneous toxicities of Brequinar sodium during Phase II trials are discussed. PMID- 2521298 TI - Androgens and breast cancer in premenopausal women. AB - We investigated the role of androgens in premenopausal breast cancer by comparing serum testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, androstenedione, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, progesterone, sex-hormone-binding globulin-binding capacity, and urinary testosterone and androstanediol in 63 women with breast adenocarcinoma and 70 healthy controls of similar age. With variables dichotomized at the 75th percentile, the age-adjusted relative risk was 3.4 (95% confidence interval, 1.6 7.3) for high versus low levels of serum testosterone, 2.1 (0.9-4.8) for urinary testosterone, and 2.5 (1.1-5.9) for serum dihydrotestosterone. We observed no differences in other hormones. The strength of the associations changed markedly with increasing time to the onset of the next menses. The risk for testosterone and dihydrotestosterone, which was negligible in women with onset within 5 days of sampling, increased progressively to nearly 10-fold higher than in unstratified data in women with onset 10 days or more after sampling. This study provides arguments in favor of a role for increased androgenic activity in premenopausal breast cancer. It also suggests that unknown factors related to cycle length may be important in modulating the strength of the association with testosterone. The results are discussed also in reference to possible biases and inadequacies in study design. PMID- 2521299 TI - Regulation of the activation of fluorodeoxyuridine by substrate competition and feedback inhibition in 647V cells. AB - Fluorodeoxyuridine (FdUrd) is a cytotoxic analogue of thymidine which requires activation by thymidine kinase to FdUMP. FdUMP inhibits thymidylate synthetase and, thus, the synthesis of dTTP. 5'-Aminothymidine (5'-AdThd) can antagonize the feedback inhibition exerted by dTTP on thymidine kinase activity and thereby stimulate FdUrd phosphorylation. This provided a novel approach to assess the degree to which end product inhibition regulates the phosphorylation of FdUrd. We used 5'-AdThd to investigate the effects of dThd and IdUrd on the regulation of FdUrd uptake in intact 647V cells, a human bladder cancer cell line. Contributions from catabolic processes were found not to be important in our system. We detected no nucleoside phosphorylase activity in the 647V cells or any effect of 5'-AdThd on the breakdown of 5-fluorodeoxyuridine monophosphate to FdUrd by crude preparations from these cells. Thus, phosphorylation by thymidine kinase determined FdUrd uptake (phosphorylation). In the absence of added nucleosides the rate of FdUrd uptake increased in a time dependent fashion. Diminished feedback inhibition of thymidine kinase appeared to be an important factor, as evidenced by a decrease in intracellular dTTP pools and a time dependent loss in the ability of 5'-AdThd to stimulate FdUrd uptake. Thymidine and iododeoxyuridine inhibited FdUrd phosphorylation (uptake) by two mechanisms: competition for the active site of thymidine kinase and increased feedback inhibition. Increased feedback inhibition was indicated by stimulation of FdUrd uptake by 5'-AdThd. The effects of IdUrd on FdUrd uptake were also time dependent, presumably reflecting accumulation of iododeoxyuridine triphosphate and dTTP pools. FdUrd cytotoxicity was modulated by dThd, IdUrd, and 5'-AdThd in parallel to their perturbation of FdUrd uptake. Individually they reduced the growth inhibitory properties of FdUrd. These results show that the regulation of FdUrd uptake is critically dependent on the presence of dThd and IdUrd and emphasize the potential importance of circulating levels of these nucleosides in mediating FdUrd activation and cytotoxicity. PMID- 2521300 TI - The V beta-specific superantigen staphylococcal enterotoxin B: stimulation of mature T cells and clonal deletion in neonatal mice. AB - Staphylococcal enterotoxin B is known to be a powerful T cell stimulant in mouse and man. In this paper we show that, for mice, this is because the protein in association with major histocompatibility complex class II molecules stimulates virtually all T cells bearing V beta 3 and V beta 8.1, 8.2, and 8.3, and few others. Neonatal mice given the enterotoxin eliminate all mature, and some immature, T cells bearing these V beta s, demonstrating that tolerance to exogenously administered antigen can be caused by clonal deletion of reactive T cells. The enterotoxin shares these "superantigenic" properties with known self antigens in mice, Mls-1a and Mls-2a, and a B cell-derived product, a shared property that is unlikely to be coincidental or inconsequential. PMID- 2521301 TI - Cellular targets for transformation by the adenovirus E1A proteins. AB - Three cellular proteins, including species of 300,000 daltons and 107,000 daltons as well as p105-RB, the product of the retinoblastoma susceptibility gene, stably interact with the adenovirus E1A proteins. To help determine the functional basis of these interactions, the regions of E1A that participate in these interactions were mapped using a series of deletion mutants. The 300,000 dalton and the 107,000 dalton proteins interacted with sequences within amino acids 1 to 76 and 121 to 127, respectively. Interaction with the third cellular protein, p105-RB, required the presence of sequences from two noncontiguous regions of the E1A polypeptide chain, amino acids 30 to 60 and 121 to 127. The regions of E1A that are required for these interactions coincided precisely with the regions of E1A that are required for its transforming function. These results suggest that the interactions with these cellular proteins are fundamental to the transforming activity of E1A. PMID- 2521302 TI - Human T cell activation induced by a monoclonal mouse IgG3 anti-CD3 antibody (RIV9) requires binding of the Fc part of the antibody to the monocytic 72-kDa high-affinity Fc receptor (FcRI). AB - The mitogenic activity of anti-CD3 mouse monoclonal antibodies (mAb) in cultures of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) depends on the ability of the mAb to interact with CD3 molecules on the T cells, and with Fc receptors (FcR) on monocytes. Two types of FcR with distinct specificity for murine (m) IgG subclasses are involved: a 72-kDa receptor (FcRI) binds mIgG2a and a 40-kDa receptor (FcRII) binds mIgG1. In this study we examined the mitogenic activity of mIgG3 anti-CD3 mAb RIV9. In cultures of human PBMC, the mAb induced T cell proliferation and interleukin 2 production. We found that subjects, unresponsive to mIgG2a anti-CD3 (e.g., OKT3), were also RIV9 nonresponders. In contrast, nonresponders to mIgG1 anti-CD3 (e.g., anti-Leu4) had a normal response to RIV9. Our results therefore suggested that anti-CD3 mAb of the mIgG2a and mIgG3 subclass bind to the same monocytic FcR. Human monomeric IgG, which has been shown to bind to FcRI only, blocked T cell proliferation induced by mIgG2a and mIgG3 anti-CD3, but had no effect on T cell proliferation induced by mIgG1 anti CD3. In contrast, a mAb (IV.3) to FcRII, which blocks ligand binding of the receptor, blocked the mitogenic activity of mIgG1 anti-CD3 antibodies, but had no effect on T cell proliferation induced by mIgG3 anti-CD3 or by mIgG2a anti-CD3. Binding of RIV9 to FcR of responder monocytes could be demonstrated in immunofluorescence. Monocytes from the RIV9 nonresponder subjects however were unable to bind the Fc portion of this antibody. The binding of fluorescein (FITC) conjugated mIgG3 or FITC-conjugated mIgG2a to responder monocytes could be inhibited by human monomeric IgG and by mIgG2a and mIgG3, but not by the mAb to FcRII. The results demonstrate that mIgG3 binds to FcRI on human monocytes and that this binding is needed for the mitogenic activity of mIgG3 anti-CD3. PMID- 2521303 TI - Divalent metal requirement for soluble immune response suppressor (SIRS) activity. AB - Soluble immune response suppressor (SIRS) is an immunosuppressive protein which requires activation to SIRSox by peroxide. This observation suggested that SIRS could be a metalloprotein. To investigate this possibility, purified hybridoma derived SIRS was treated with chelating agents and dialyzed prior to activation with H2O2. EDTA, EGTA, or desferrioxamine prevented suppression of murine plaque forming cell responses by SIRSox, whereas sodium citrate and penicillamine did not inhibit suppression. Suppressive activity was reconstituted by subsequent treatment of SIRS with FeSO4 (0.5 microM), NiSO4 (500 microM), or MgSO4 (500 microM), but not by FeCl3, MnSO4, CuSO4, ZnSO4, CaCl2, or CrCl3. Reconstitution of activity occurred only if FeSO4 was added at least 3 hr prior to treatment with H2O2. These data indicate that SIRS requires a divalent metal ion, probably ferrous iron, for activity, and suggest that SIRS is a metalloprotein. PMID- 2521304 TI - T cell activation induced by anti-CD3 antibodies requires prolonged stimulation of protein kinase C. AB - Accessory cell-depleted T cells required the presence of a protein kinase C (PKC) stimulating phorbol ester, such as phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate (PDB), to be activated by soluble antibodies to the CD3 molecular complex. To determine the duration of PDB costimulation necessary to induce a proliferative response, highly purified T cells were pulsed with anti-CD3, incubated with PDB for limited periods of time, and then washed and recultured in the absence of PDB. T cells stimulated with anti-CD3 and PDB for 2 hr were unable to proliferate unless IL-2 or PDB was added to the second culture. With more prolonged exposure to PDB (4-18 hr), anti-CD3-pulsed cells exhibited an increased capacity to proliferate in the absence of additional PDB. Proliferation could be augmented by exogenous IL-2, but remained submaximal. Optimal DNA synthetic responses required the presence of PDB throughout the entire culture. Despite this, costimulation with anti-CD3 and PDB induced a significant number of cells to express IL-2 receptors and enter the cell cycle after 18 hr of costimulation with PDB. Moreover, T cells costimulated by anti-CD3 and PDB produced IL-2 within 4 hr. However, T cells that were stimulated with anti-CD3 and PDB for 4 hr, washed, and recultured rapidly lost the ability to continue to produce IL-2, which reflected a decrease in the content of mRNA encoding IL-2. This loss of IL-2 production was prevented by reculturing the cells with PDB. These studies therefore indicate that after initial T cell activation by anti-CD3, continued stimulation of PKC is necessary for ongoing IL-2 production. These results suggest a model of T cell activation in which sustained stimulation of PKC after cell cycle entry is required to maintain growth factor production and continued proliferation. PMID- 2521305 TI - Aging and immunity to tuberculosis: prolonged survival of old mice infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis by adoptive immunization with memory-immune T lymphocytes. AB - This study shows that memory immune T lymphocytes, harvested from young (3-month old) mice infected intravenously with Mycobacterium tuberculosis and then exposed to protracted chemotherapy with isoniazid, are capable of adoptively protecting old (24 month) mice from a subsequent fatal challenge infection. Survival of such adoptively protected animals was prolonged, but did not extend beyond the mean survival time of uninfected old control mice. During this time the passively transferred memory T cell population retained their functional capacity to protect against subsequent tuberculosis infection. These data indicate, therefore, that reconstitution of decayed cell-mediated antimicrobial immunity in old mice in vivo with memory T cells is technically feasible, although the life span of the animal is not extended over that of control animals. They indicate, moreover, that the memory T cells remain functional in what some reports have considered a suppressive environment and show further that the macrophages with which the infused T cells interact in the aged host remain functionally able to express acquired resistance. PMID- 2521306 TI - An approach to the unification of suppressor T cell circuits: a simplified assay for the induction of suppression by T cell-derived, antigen-binding molecules (T ABM). AB - A system is presented in which the in vitro response to sheep red blood cells (SRBC) can be regulated using antigenic determinants coupled to SRBC and T cell derived antigen-binding molecules (T-ABM) directed against the coupled determinants. T suppressor-inducer factors (TsiF's) are composed of two molecules, one of which is a T-ABM and one which bears I-J determinants (I-J+ molecule). Using two purified T-ABM which have not previously been shown to have in vitro activity, we produced antigen-specific TsiF's which were capable of inducing the suppression of the anti-SRBC response. Suppression was found to require both the T-ABM and the I-J+ molecule, SRBC conjugated with the antigen for which the T-ABM was specific, and a population of Ly-2+ T cells in the culture. Two monoclonal TsiF (or TsF1) were demonstrated to induce suppression of the anti-SRBC response in this system, provided the relevant antigen was coupled to the SRBC in culture. The results are discussed in terms of the general functions of T-ABM in the immune system. This model will be useful in direct, experimental comparisons of the function of T-ABM and suppressor T cell factors under study in different systems and laboratories. PMID- 2521307 TI - The role of T cells in immunoglobulin class switching of specific antibody production system in vitro in humans. AB - Only antibodies of the IgM class were produced in vitro by peripheral blood mononuclear cells stimulated with streptococcal carbohydrate. B cells of the peripheral blood mononuclear cells, however, synthesized both IgM and IgG class antibodies when combined with tonsillar T cells, suggesting that T cells inducing immunoglobulin class switching are present in the tonsils. Peripheral blood T cells also became capable of inducing B cells to produce IgG class antibodies when the T cells were incubated with antigen-pulsed macrophages. Surface IgM positive, IgG-negative high-density B cells produced IgG antibodies for streptococcal carbohydrate in the presence of these T cells or tonsillar T cells. The culture supernatant solutions from these T cells or tonsillar T cells, however, failed to cause the B cells to produce IgG, indicating that class switching is not mediated by factors released from T cells. Lymphokines such as interleukin-2, human B cell growth factor, helper T cell factor, or interferon gamma were also incapable of inducing IgG production. These results suggest that the cognate interaction between T cells and B cells is necessary for the immunoglobulin class switching. PMID- 2521308 TI - The role of T cell receptors in non-MHC-restricted cytotoxicity. AB - The relationship between natural killer cells (NK) and cells of the T lineage has been obscured by the existence of poorly characterized clones of presumed NK origin. We have analyzed nine of these cloned cell lines displaying varying levels of cytotoxic activity against NKS YAC-1 target cells for rearrangement and expression of the genes encoding the alpha, beta, and gamma chains of the T cell receptor for antigen. Rearrangements at both the TcR beta and gamma loci were detected in all clones often at both alleles. Rearrangement patterns at the TcR beta locus were identical in several clones, despite different degrees of cytotoxicity. T cell receptor alpha, beta, and gamma genes were expressed as full length transcripts in all clones regardless of their levels of cytotoxic activity. To explore the involvement of cell surface molecules in the cytolytic events, studies were undertaken to determine whether cytotoxic activity could be inhibited by antibodies against CD3, LFA-I, and H-2KdDd. In two selected clones, both alpha and beta chains of the LFA-I molecule were expressed but only monoclonal antibodies against the alpha chain significantly blocked cytotoxicity. Cytotoxicity was also inhibited by monoclonal antibodies against epitopes of H 2KdDd and CD3, the extent of inhibition correlating with the level of surface expression on both clones. These data suggest that conventional alpha/beta heterodimers may be necessary but not sufficient for target cell recognition by these clones. Since T cell receptor rearrangement and expression occur normally in the T cell lineage but not the NK lineage, these results also indicate that a subpopulation of cells with non-MHC-restricted killer activity lies on the T cell differentiation pathway and is selected by in vitro growth with IL-2. The limited rearrangement pattern observed can be explained if only a small subpopulation of T cells is capable of non-MHC-restricted killing, and if certain rearrangements favor self-MHC recognition which is known to block cytolysis in the NK system. PMID- 2521309 TI - A comparison of murine hepatic accessory cells and splenic dendritic cells. AB - Accessory cells are required for proliferation and antibody synthesis of B lymphocytes and proliferation of T lymphocytes in primary immune responses in vitro. The obligatory cells derived from the spleen are referred to as dendritic cells. Accessory cells were isolated from normal adult livers which were functionally interchangeable with splenic DC. Both hepatic accessory cells (AC) and splenic DC adhere firmly to plastic culture dishes or wells within 2 hr; but hepatic AC, unlike splenic DC, do not detach during 22 hr additional incubation. Hepatic AC, unlike splenic DC, are not lysed or inactivated by monoclonal antibody 33D1 and C'. Hepatic AC and splenic DC are similarly sensitive to irradiation in vivo and insensitive to irradiation in vitro. Hepatic AC are separated with cells which are predominantly phagocytic and FcR+ and contain nonspecific esterase. Both hepatic AC and splenic DC are suppressed or eliminated by activation of NK cells in vivo, a phenomenon prevented by prior elimination of NK cells. PMID- 2521311 TI - Characterization of B-cell populations bearing Fc epsilon receptor II. AB - We have characterized the B-cell population that expresses low affinity Fc receptors for IgE (Fc epsilon RII). Fc epsilon RII+ B cells from normal adult BALB/c mice expressed high levels of surface IgD and low/medium levels of surface IgM and constituted the majority of mature splenic B cells. Fc epsilon RII+ splenic B cells expressed high levels of class II MHC antigens and medium to high levels of B220, and consisted of approximately equal numbers of J11dhigh and J11dlow cells. CD5+ B cells did not appear to be Fc epsilon RII+, and interleukin 4 did not induce Fc epsilon RII expression on CD5+ B cells. Fc epsilon RII was not expressed by B cells that had differentiated to secrete immunoglobulin but was expressed on activated B cells. These data suggest that Fc epsilon RII is a differentiation marker expressed on mature and activated B lymphocytes in the major B-cell lineage. PMID- 2521310 TI - Regulation of human T-cell production of interleukin 2 by Leu 11 (CD16) positive large granular lymphocytes. AB - Peripheral blood large granular lymphocytes (LGL) expressing Leu 11 (CD16) antigen with potent natural killer cytotoxicity inhibited soluble antigen-induced T-cell production of interleukin 2 (IL-2). Depletion of Leu 11-reactive cells from T-cells doubled IL-2 activity (P less than 0.05). Leu 11-enriched cells did not express high affinity IL-2 receptors nor did they deplete IL-2 activity from culture media. Upon addition in low ratios to Leu 11-depleted cells, Leu 11 enriched fractions increased antigen-induced IL-2 production three-fold (P less than 0.05), whereas at higher ratios IL-2 production was suppressed P less than 0.01. Additionally, adherent monocytes were increasingly accessory when added in graded numbers to Leu 11-depleted but not T-cell cultures. In the presence of small numbers (5%) of Leu 11-enriched cells, however, monocytes down-regulated IL 2 production of Leu 11-depleted cell cultures. Thus Leu 11-reactive lymphocytes have noncytotoxic functions and may play a major role in immunoregulation. PMID- 2521312 TI - Natural suppressor-like cells in local graft-vs-host disease. AB - We examined the generation of suppressor cells in the popliteal lymph nodes (PLN) of F1 recipients of parental spleen cells in rats, i.e., a local form of graft-vs host disease (GVHD). PLN cells of F1 recipients, or subpopulations of these cells, were tested for their ability to suppress the mixed lymphocyte culture and cell-mediated lympholysis. Suppressor cells were consistently generated in this local GVHD reaction. In contrast to others, we found no evidence that suppression was mediated by T cells. Instead, the suppressor cells had the CD5-, CD8+, asialo GM1+ phenotype characteristic of rat NK cells. The suppression exerted by these cells was nonspecific and was not mediated by a veto effect. The suppressor cells did not kill alloreactive T cell blasts, but had strong NK activity. These cells appear to be of donor origin. These local-GVHD-associated NK-like suppressor cells are similar, but not identical, to the natural suppressor cells described by other investigators in various experimental systems. PMID- 2521314 TI - Human T lymphocytes expressing gamma/delta T cell antigen receptor. AB - The majority of mature T lymphocytes express CD3-associated antigen receptor molecules (TCR) formed by alpha and beta chains. Recently, a minor subset has been identified that expresses a different CD3-associated heterodimer composed of gamma and delta chains. The TCR gamma/delta+ cell subset differs from conventional T cells for a number of phenotypic and functional characteristics. The simultaneous lack of both CD4 and CD8 antigens allows to greatly enrich TCR gamma/delta+ cells (by monoclonal antibodies and complement). Cloning of CD4-8- peripheral blood lymphocytes, under limiting dilution conditions, revealed that they are homogeneously composed of cytolytic cells which, in most instances, lyse tumor target cells. The formal proof has been provided that TCR gamma/delta+ cells are able to recognize antigens. Indeed they proliferated in response to allogeneic cells in mixed lymphocyte culture (MLC) and MLC-derived TCR gamma/delta+ cells specifically lysed PHA-induced blast cells bearing the stimulating alloantigens. The use of different monoclonal antibodies specific for TCR gamma/delta molecules allowed to identify two distinct subsets which bound BB3 and delta-TCS-1 mAbs, respectively. The BB3-reactive TCR molecules were represented by C gamma 1-encoded disulfide-linked heterodimers, whereas delta-TCS 1 reacted with C gamma 2-encoded nondisulfide-linked molecules. Both BB3 and delta-TCS-1 mAb induced activation of cloned cells expressing the corresponding antigenic determinants (as assessed by measurements of intracellular Ca2+ and lymphokine production or cytolytic activity). Analysis of the unfrequent delta TCS-1+ clones which express surface CD8 molecules revealed that the "heavy" 55 kDa form of (C gamma 2-encoded) gamma chain is selectively expressed by this cell type. Analysis of the distribution of subsets expressing different TCR gamma/delta isotypes showed that the C gamma 1-encoded, BB3-reactive form is prevalent in the peripheral blood, but virtually absent in the thymus. In contrast, cells expressing the C gamma 2-encoded, delta-TCS-1 reactive form are relatively unfrequent in peripheral blood, but represent the majority of TCR gamma/delta+ thymocytes. In addition, upon culture in rIL-2, approximately half of the delta-TCS-1+ thymocytes expressed CD8 antigen, thus providing further evidence that major differences exist in the distribution of TCR gamma/delta+ subsets in thymus and in peripheral blood. PMID- 2521313 TI - Rapid reduction of plasma atrial natriuretic peptide levels during percutaneous transvenous mitral commissurotomy in patients with mitral stenosis. AB - To clarify the direct contribution of the left atrial pressure to secretion of human atrial natriuretic peptide (hANP), we have attempted to study the relations between plasma hANP levels, neurohumoral factors, and hemodynamic changes in 13 patients with mitral stenosis undergoing percutaneous transvenous mitral commissurotomy (PTMC). After PTMC, the left atrial pressure fell from 14.7 +/- 1.9 (mean +/- SEM) to 6.5 +/- 0.7 mm Hg in all patients studied (p less than 0.0005), whereas there were no remarkable changes in either the right atrial pressure, mean arterial pressure, or heart rate. Plasma immunoreactive hANP levels obtained from the pulmonary artery decreased from 278 +/- 51 to 137 +/- 31 pg/ml after PTMC (p less than 0.0005). There was a significant correlation between the decrement of hANP levels and that of left atrial pressure (r = 0.72, p less than 0.005). Neither plasma renin activity nor norepinephrine levels changed. In contrast, plasma aldosterone concentrations significantly increased from 11.3 +/- 1.5 to 16.4 +/- 2.7 pg/ml after PTMC (p less than 0.01), although there was no casual relation between plasma concentrations of aldosterone and hANP. The present result with PTMC-induced rapid fall of the left atrial pressure with a concomitant reduction in hANP secretion strongly suggests the importance of the left atrial pressure on hANP secretion in humans. PMID- 2521315 TI - Multiple sclerosis: possible immunological mechanisms. AB - Multiple sclerosis is the principal demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. Although the prevalence of the disease is moderately low, averaging about 40 cases per 100,000 people in high risk areas, it is a particularly devastating disease. It primarily affects young adults, is chronic, and has an unpredictable course. Most discouraging, the cause of the disease is not known and an effective treatment has not been identified. Recently, however, research has yielded some important findings concerning the etiology of MS. Much evidence now points to an immunological process as one of the major elements in the disease. It is also likely that an environmental influence, possibly an infectious process, may contribute to the disease. Finally, it is now certain that genetic makeup influences susceptibility to the disease. At present, the strongest evidence is for a polygenic effect, not the effect of a single gene or gene locus. This review will examine some of the possible immunologically mediated disease processes that could be involved in MS, especially those that could account for a role for infectious and genetic factors in the disease. PMID- 2521316 TI - Percutaneous posterolateral lumbar discectomy. An alternative to laminectomy in the treatment of backache and sciatica. AB - The evacuation and decompression of the herniated lumbar disc (HLD) through a sheath or cannula inserted dorsolaterally represent a new concept in the treatment of backache and sciatica associated with disc herniation. Under local anesthetic and Valium (Roche, Nutley, New Jersey) sedation, 20 patients with sciatica, restricted straight-leg raising, and neurological impairment were treated by this simple and safe technique. All patients had computed tomographic evidence of L4-L5 protrusion. The introduction of a sheath with an internal diameter of 4.9 mm permitted removal of the nuclear material by means of a small pituitary forcep. Using the self-assessment method of Coventry and Stauffer, it was concluded that 12 of the 20 patients had a good or fair result. Predictably, the compensation patients fared poorly. There were no complications. This technique appears applicable in HLD to properly selected patients, and it would seem that it is safe, effective, and cost efficient. PMID- 2521317 TI - Percutaneous disc surgery. AB - The rationale and clinical methods of percutaneous disc surgery have been modified during the past four years. Experience with a consecutive series of 48 patients suggests that the procedure now offers results comparable to open surgery and the advantages of reduced surgical trauma. PMID- 2521318 TI - Lateral decompression of a pathological disc in the treatment of lumbar pain and sciatica. AB - The posterolateral approach external to the vertebral canal allows decompression and the escape of disintegrating bits of abnormal nucleus pulposus. This simple, rapid, and least traumatic procedure is sufficient to relieve and to cure a significant number of patients (approximately 40%) suffering from intervertebral disc-related lumbar pain or sciatica. Among 225 patients with 338 discs operated on by the lateral decompression technique in the interval from 1978 to 1984, the overall results are encouraging. PMID- 2521319 TI - Clinical experience with automated percutaneous lumbar discectomy. AB - Percutaneous automated aspiration discectomy is a new procedure for treating uncomplicated herniated lumbar discs. In a series of 200 patients, followed for up to six months, the overall success rate was 77.5%. Workers' compensation claimants, elderly patients, and patients with previous surgery can be treated successfully using percutaneous discectomy. Patients were treated on an outpatient basis. Patients returned to work significantly sooner after percutaneous discectomy than after microdiscectomy or laminectomy. No intraoperative or postoperative complications occurred. PMID- 2521320 TI - The effects of enoximone on renal function in patients with congestive heart failure. AB - Enoximone is an investigational cardiotonic agent with positive inotropic and vasodilatory properties. In this protocol the effects of enoximone on parameters of renal function in patients (n = 14) with New York Heart Association class II or III congestive heart failure were determined after intravenous (IV) treatment (2 mg/kg) and after chronic oral administration (150 mg t.i.d.), either alone or with added furosemide (40 mg b.i.d.). Glomerular filtration rate (GFR), effective renal plasma flow (ERPF), filtration fraction, mean arterial pressure (MAP), renal blood flow (RBF), and renal vascular resistance (RVR) were determined each time. Plasma volume (PV) was determined at baseline and after oral enoximone and after oral enoximone plus furosemide. Significant reductions in GFR (18%) and ERPF (20%) were observed after IV treatment but not after oral treatment with or without furosemide. MAP also was lowered significantly by 14% after IV administration but not after oral treatments. PV after oral enoximone plus furosemide was reduced significantly (31%) compared with baseline. These results demonstrate that enoximone produces acute reductions in GFR and ERPF when given intravenously but has no effect on parameters of renal function when given orally, either alone or with furosemide. PMID- 2521322 TI - The use of gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogs for in vitro fertilization: comparison between the standard form and long-acting formulation of D-Trp-6 luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone. AB - The introduction of luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LH-RH) analogs into treatment schemes for the stimulation of ovulation has enabled the authors' in vitro fertilization (IVF) team to overcome two problems; they can now suppress spontaneous LH peaks and program their activity. Two hundred and five IVF cycles were investigated. The agent used was D-Trp-6-LH-RH, either in a sustained release formulation (112 cases, group 1) or in a standard form (93 cases, group 2). The quantity of human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) necessary for adequate ovarian stimulation was much lower when the standard form of the analog was used. The number of oocytes recovered per puncture was greater in group 1 (7.6 compared with 5.1), but the difference was not significant when considering the number of embryos (2.4 compared with 2.1). The corrected pregnancy rate (with allowance for progressive introduction of freezing from the third embryo onwards) was identical in both groups. The authors conclude that systems in which LH-RH analogs are employed have a clear advantage over the classical treatment with clomiphene citrate/hMG, and that the immediate-action formulation of D-Trp-6-LH-RH is preferable. PMID- 2521321 TI - Comparative metabolic effects of three types of combined oral contraceptive pills in Chinese women. AB - The results of a prospective longitudinal controlled study comparing some metabolic effects of a low-dose levonorgestrel-ethinyl oestradiol combined oral contraceptive (Microgynon 30), a desogestrel-ethinyl oestradiol-containing pill (Marvelon) and a levonorgestrel-ethinyl oestradiol triphasic preparation (Triquilar) after one year of treatment in ethnic Chinese women are presented. Serum cholesterol levels are similar for the three pills at 6 and 12 months of treatment. Marvelon and Triquilar users showed rises in triglyceride levels while Microgynon 30 users had no change after one year of treatment. Lipoprotein fractions showed favourable changes in Triquilar and Marvelon users with significant rise in HDL fractions at 6 and 12 months; Microgynon 30 users had equivocal changes in HDL fractions. Carbohydrate metabolism as reflected by glucose tolerance showed deterioration with all 3 pills, being least with Microgynon 30 and greatest with Marvelon at 12 months. PMID- 2521323 TI - Ovarian stimulation with pure follicle-stimulating hormone/human menopausal gonadotropin and improved laparoscopic aspiration needles influence the success of an in vitro fertilization program. AB - The effect of a combined pure follicle-stimulating hormone/human menopausal gonadotropin (pFSH/hMG) ovarian stimulation regimen and modified, sharpened laparoscopic follicular aspiration needles on the number of oocytes retrieved and the oocyte/follicle ratio in 43 consecutive cycles of in vitro fertilization (IVF) were retrospectively compared with 99 consecutive preceeding cycles stimulated with hMG alone and captured with aspiration needles that had never been sharpened. A modified laparoscopic follicular aspiration needle is described. Purified FSH/hMG ovarian stimulation significantly improved the mean serum estradiol levels, number of preovulatory follicles, and, therefore, the total number of oocytes recovered per cycle. The mean ratios of oocytes recovered per preovulatory follicle documented on ultrasound, and per aspirated follicle, increased significantly using sharpened needles. Both modifications improved the success rate of our IVF program. PMID- 2521324 TI - Hysterosalpingography in perspective: the predictive value of oil-soluble versus water-soluble contrast media. AB - This study of HSG in infertile patients compares the predictive values of OSCM with WSCM, relative to the laparoscopic diagnosis. The OSCM was found to have better sensitivity and higher predictive value for pelvic disease than the WSCM. HSG and laparoscopy are adjunctive procedures, which are not mutually exclusive. PMID- 2521325 TI - Ovarian cyst formation: a complication of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist therapy. AB - Since gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogs were introduced into clinical therapeutic use, several side effects directly related to the hypoestrogenic state have been reported. The authors have encountered a rather infrequent complication, namely ovarian cystic formations, when using these compounds for selected in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET) cases. In 7 of 24 patients with Decapeptyl (D-Trp6-luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone [LH-RH], Ferring, Kiel, FRG) treatment, and in 5 of 22 patients treated with Buserelin (Superfact, Hoechst A.G., Frankfurt, FRG), solitary ovarian cysts developed during the down-regulation phase. Their growth did not change during ovulation induction with menotropins. Although the mechanism of ovarian cyst formation during GnRH agonist treatment is not clear, their presence does not appear to interfere with the fertility of these women. PMID- 2521326 TI - Effect of oral contraceptives or dexamethasone on plasma beta-endorphin during the menstrual cycle. AB - Several studies have showed a significant increase of plasma beta-endorphin levels during the periovulatory days of the menstrual cycle. The aim of the present study was to investigate the origin of the periovulatory changes of plasma beta-endorphin, trying to discriminate between a possible ovarian and/or pituitary origin. Daily plasma beta-endorphin, luteinizing hormone (LH), and cortisol levels were measured from the 8th to the 20th day of the menstrual cycle in healthy normal-cycling women (10 cases) before and during dexamethasone (DEX; 6 cases) or estroprogestinic treatment with monophasic (5 cases) or triphasic (5 cases) pill. In the control menstrual cycle, during the preovulatory days, a significant increase of plasma beta-endorphin was found. While oral contraceptives abolished the midcycle increase of plasma beta-endorphin, the periovulatory plasma beta-endorphin peak was present during DEX treatment. Plasma cortisol levels did not show any significant change throughout the control menstrual cycle, while they were significantly lowered by the DEX administration and significantly increased during estroprogestinic treatment. These results suggest that the increase of plasma beta-endorphin during the periovulatory days is related to the ovulatory function, and suggest a possible ovarian origin. PMID- 2521327 TI - Laparoscopic appearances of peritoneal endometriosis. AB - This article studies endometriosis diagnosed in patients undergoing laparoscopy for infertility and/or pain from 1982 to 1988. The diagnosis of endometriosis at laparoscopy increased from 42% in 1982 to 72% in 1988. The greatest change is in "subtle" lesions, which increased from 15% in 1986 to 65% in 1988. An increased awareness and histologic confirmation of the protean presentation of endometriosis is associated with a significant increase in the diagnosis of endometriosis at laparoscopy. PMID- 2521328 TI - Results of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer by combined long-acting gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog D-Trp-6-luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone and gonadotropins. AB - To avoid cancellation of in vitro fertilization (IVF) because of early luteinization, pituitary suppression by gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) was carried out in 111 cycles. D-Trp-6-luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LH-RH) microcapsules were administered intramuscularly at menstruation and menotropin (hMG) stimulation was started 19 days (mean) later. In 3 cycles (2.7%), only early luteinization occurred. The mean number of oocytes per cycle was 6.7, with a fertilization and cleavage rate of 50 and 95%, respectively. A mean of 3.4 embryos were transferred per cycle. The 111 cycles resulted in 34 clinical pregnancies, 41% per cycle with embryo transfer. The early abortion, multiple pregnancy, and ovarian hyperstimulation rates were 24, 18, and 11%, respectively. It is concluded that D-Trp-6-LH-RH/hMG cycles are associated with a very low occurrence of early luteinization, high number of oocytes and embryos, and a substantial incidence of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. PMID- 2521329 TI - Tissue culture of human fetal pancreas. Effects of nicotinamide on insulin production and formation of isletlike cell clusters. AB - Human fetal pancreas (HFP) is a potential source of beta-cells for transplantation to insulin-dependent diabetic patients. We have previously described a method for tissue culture of HFP that results in the in vitro development of isletlike cell clusters (ICCs) containing a minority of insulin positive cells. Recently we found that nicotinamide, an inhibitor of poly(ADP ribose) synthetase, induces an increased islet cell DNA replication both in vivo and in vitro. In this study, this culture technique was used to evaluate the effects of addition of 10 mM nicotinamide on HFP explants cultured in RPMI-1640 medium plus 10% human serum. ICCs developed in 11 of 19 consecutive cultures with nicotinamide increased the yield of ICCs by 40%. Also, the insulin content of ICCs increased approximately 50% with nicotinamide supplementation, although measurements of DNA indicated an unchanged number of cells in each ICC. Neither the rates of insulin release in response to 16.7 mM glucose plus 5 mM theophylline nor the (pro)insulin or total protein biosynthesis rates were affected by nicotinamide addition. The combined results of this study suggest that nicotinamide is useful for stimulating the formation of ICCs from HFP. PMID- 2521330 TI - OKT3 rescue therapy in pancreas-allograft rejection. AB - OKT3 has emerged as a highly effective antirejection therapy, but its efficacy in pancreas transplantation remains to be determined. During a 26-mo period, 46 vascularized pancreas transplants were performed with pancreaticoduodenocystostomy. Twenty-one patients (45.7%) were treated with OKT3. Indications for OKT3 use included steroid- and/or antilymphoblast globulin resistant rejection in isolated-pancreas transplant (n = 8) or simultaneous pancreas-kidney-transplant (n = 13) recipients. A total of 46 rejection episodes occurred (mean 2.2). OKT3 was administered for a 14-day course concomitant with pulsed corticosteroids, azathioprine, and cyclosporin. OKT3 rescue therapy was successful in 13 cases (61.9%). The mean time to rejection reversal was 8.8 days (range 5-14 days). In isolated-pancreas transplants, OKT3 reversed only 1 episode of rejection (12.5%). In contrast, 12 episodes (92.3%) of allograft rejection were responsive to OKT3 in simultaneous pancreas-kidney recipients (P less than .05). Graft loss from rejection occurred at a mean 5.5 mo posttransplantation. OKT3 therapy was more successful in the setting of early rejection, rejection in combined pancreas-kidney transplants, and rejection not associated with hyperglycemia. No graft loss due to infection or patient death has occurred after OKT3 therapy. After a mean follow-up of 17.3 mo, patient survival was 89.1%, and allograft survival was 26.3% in isolated-pancreas and 85.2% in simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplants (P less than .05). Salvage therapy with OKT3 is a safe and effective means of reversing rejection in pancreas-allograft recipients. OKT3 is more effective in simultaneous pancreas-kidney recipients due to the earlier diagnosis of rejection. PMID- 2521332 TI - Left ventricular function and collagen content after regression of hypertensive hypertrophy. AB - To determine whether regression of hypertensive hypertrophy through blood pressure control also involves left ventricular collagen and consecutive alterations in left ventricular diastolic and systolic function, antihypertensive treatment with the calcium channel blocker nifedipine (30 mg/kg.day) was employed in 20-week-old spontaneously hypertensive rats (n = 15) for a period of 20 weeks. Age-matched (40 weeks old) untreated (n = 13) and 20-week-old spontaneously hypertensive rats representing the state before therapy (n = 14) were used for comparison. Myocardial stiffness was described by the tangent modulus Km of the elastic stiffness-stress relation. Left ventricular collagen was determined by means of hydroxyproline (OH-proline) concentration. Myocardial working capacity of the left ventricle was measured as the peak developed systolic pressure per weight unit muscle mass and systolic peak pump function as the maximum achievable cardiac output under volume loading. After the 20-week course of nifedipine treatment, systolic aortic pressure dropped from 187 +/- 11 to 144 +/- 6 mm Hg (p less than 0.001). Regression of hypertrophy was shown by a left ventricular muscle/body weight ratio of 2.13 +/- 0.18 mg/g (p less than 0.01) in the 40-week old nifedipine-treated hypertensive rats, whereas the ratios of the 20-week-old and 40-week-old untreated spontaneously hypertensive rats were 2.3 +/- 0.30 and 2.34 +/- 0.18 mg/g, respectively.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521331 TI - Cholesterol synthesis in bypassed segments of the small intestine in hyperphagic rats. AB - Previous studies have demonstrated that a variety of conditions that result in an increase in food intake lead to an increase in small-intestinal cholesterol synthesis. In the present study, it was determined whether hyperphagia induces an increase in cholesterol synthesis in segments of the small intestine excluded from contact with the food stream and whether this increase would occur in bypassed segments of the proximal or mid-small intestine. In hyperphagic diabetic rats, cholesterol synthesis is increased 91% in the proximal portion of the small intestine excluded from contact with nutrients. In lactating rats, another model of hyperphagia, cholesterol synthesis is increased 2.4-fold in midintestinal segments excluded from contact with the food stream and 2.9-fold in segments of the proximal intestine that have been bypassed. These observations demonstrate that the hyperphagia-induced increase in small-intestinal cholesterol synthesis will occur in portions of the small intestine, even if contact with the food stream is prevented. In addition, this data demonstrated that the mass of the bypassed portion of the small intestine is increased in hyperphagic animals. In diabetic animals, the weight of the bypassed proximal intestine is increased 2.1 fold, whereas in lactating animals the mass is increased 50% in the bypassed midintestine and 74% in the bypassed proximal small intestine. In conclusion, the present study suggests that circulating or neurologic factors, or both, play a role in stimulating intestinal cholesterol synthesis in hyperphagic animals. These findings also suggest that indirect factors play a role in the increase in intestinal mass associated with hyperphagia. PMID- 2521333 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor inhibits isoproterenol- and furosemide-stimulated renin release in humans. AB - The effects of atrial natriuretic factor (0.025 microgram/kg/min) on isoproterenol-(0.02 microgram/kg/min) and furosemide-(5 mg i.v. bolus) stimulated renin release were studied in seven salt-replete healthy volunteers. Isoproterenol or furosemide were given against a background infusion of 5% D glucose (placebo day) or atrial natriuretic factor (experimental day). Atrial natriuretic factor abolished the rise in plasma renin activity caused by isoproterenol (p = 0.003) and significantly (p = 0.048) attenuated the rise in plasma renin activity after a bolus injection of furosemide. These results show that a pharmacological dose of atrial natriuretic factor inhibits stimulated renin release in humans. This attenuation is apparent with two heterogenous stimuli, which suggests a nonspecific effect. PMID- 2521334 TI - Inhibition of experimental metastasis of murine fibrosarcoma cells by oligopeptide analogues to the fibronectin cell-binding site. AB - We have analyzed the effect of the synthetic oligopeptides Gly-Arg-Gly-Asp-Ser Pro (GRGDSP) and Gly-Arg-Gly-Glu-Ser-Pro (GRGESP), analogues to the fibronectin cell-binding sequence, on the formation of experimental lung metastasis. SR-BALB were injected alone or in conjunction with GRGDSP or GRGESP in the tail vein of BALB/c mice. Co-injection with GRGESP reduced by approximately 70% the number of metastatic colonies per mouse. However, co-injection with the closely related peptide GRGDSP, containing the conservative substitution Glu/Asp, did not affect metastatic behavior. GRGESP peptide anti-metastatic activity was not due to a toxic effect on tumor cells or on mice. In vitro adhesion assays testing for a possible effect of the peptide on cell-matrix interactions indicated that the GRGESP peptide did not affect cell adhesion to the matrix proteins tested. PMID- 2521335 TI - Pharmacokinetics of N-4-hydroxyphenyl-retinamide and the effect of its oral administration on plasma retinol concentrations in cancer patients. AB - Concurrent with a phase-II trial of 4HPR in patients with various cancers, we studied the plasma pharmacokinetics of both 4HPR and its major metabolite 4MPR as well as the effect of 4HPR administration on plasma retinol concentrations using a simple, specific and sensitive HPLC procedure. Initial estimates of plasma pharmacokinetic parameters after oral administration of 4HPR (300 mg/day) [corrected] in 3 cancer patients were the following: 4HPR, t beta 1/2 = 13.7 hr, AUC = 3.49 micrograms.hr/ml, CL = 56.57 L/hr/m2; 4MPR, t beta 1/2 = 23.0 hr, AUC = 1.15 micrograms.hr/ml, CL = 239.29 L/hr/m2. We also found that oral administration of 4HPR resulted in a rapid, profound and significant reduction in plasma retinol concentrations. The mean plasma retinol concentrations for 9 patients decreased 60% from baseline to below 200 ng/ml within 1-2 weeks of 4HPR dosing initiation. In addition, there was a concurrent, significant reduction in plasma retinol-binding protein levels in these patients. The mechanism whereby 4HPR reduces plasma retinol levels in vivo has not been determined. The addition of 4HPR to pooled human plasma at 37 degrees C in vitro did not reduce endogenous retinol levels, suggesting no direct chemical interaction between these 2 retinoids. PMID- 2521336 TI - NAD-specific glutamate dehydrogenase of Neurospora crassa. cDNA cloning and gene expression during derepression. AB - The catabolic NAD-specific glutamate dehydrogenase of Neurospora crassa is one of the many enzymes regulated by carbon catabolite repression. To achieve an understanding of its regulation, cDNA and genomic clones were isolated. Total poly(A+) RNA from derepressed cells was used for the construction of a cDNA library in the expression vector, lambda gt11. By screening this library with a polyclonal antiserum against NAD-specific glutamate dehydrogenase, a positive clone with a 0.9-kilobase insert was isolated and the insert DNA sequenced. The insert was shown to code for approximately one-third of the known amino acid sequence, close to the carboxyl terminus. Using this truncated cDNA as a probe, the structural gene was shown to be transcriptionally activated approximately 60 fold during derepression, producing an approximately 4.7-kilobase mRNA transcript. N. crassa genomic clones, hybridizing to this cDNA probe, were isolated and the structural gene (on two BamHI fragments) was subcloned in pUC13. PMID- 2521337 TI - Retinoic acid is a modulator of thyroid hormone activation of Ca2+-ATPase in the human erythrocyte membrane. AB - The thyroid hormones thyroxine (T4) and 3,3',5-L-triiodothyronine (T3) stimulate plasma membrane Ca2+-ATPase (EC 3.6.1.3) activity in human erythrocytes by a mechanism independent of the cell nucleus. The current studies were conducted to determine the effect of retinoic acid on the extranuclear activation by T4 and T3 of Ca2+-ATPase in the human red cell. The retinoid inhibited basal and T4 stimulatable activity of that enzyme in a dose-dependent manner. At the highest tested concentration (10(-6) M), retinoic acid inhibited basal enzyme activity by 25% and T4-stimulated activity by 72%. A concentration as low as 5 x 10(-10) M retinoic acid shifted the dose-response curve of both T4 and T3 so that the concentration of each associated with maximal enzyme stimulation was 10(-9) M instead of 10(-10) M. Retinoic acid displaced [125I]T4 binding to red cell membranes as effectively as unlabeled T4. Retinol failed to influence either basal or T4-stimulated enzyme activity or to displace T4 binding. These results indicate that retinoic acid can partially block the T4 and T3 stimulation of Ca2+ ATPase in human red cell membranes and suggest a physiologic role for the retinoid as a modulator of this peripheral action of thyroid hormone. They suggest that the red cell membrane is an important site of action for this active retinoid. PMID- 2521338 TI - Changes in the steady-state fluorescence anisotropy of N-iodoacetyl-N'-(5-sulfo-1 naphthyl)ethylenediamine attached to the specific thiol of sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase throughout the catalytic cycle. AB - Cys674 of the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase was selectively labeled with N iodoacetyl-N'-(5-sulfo-1-naphthyl)ethylenediamine without a loss of the catalytic activity, and the steady-state fluorescence anisotropy of this label and its total fluorescence intensity were followed throughout the catalytic cycle. At 25 degrees C, the anisotropy and the total fluorescence intensity increased by 2.1 and 9.4%, respectively, upon Ca2+ binding to the high affinity sites. Upon subsequent ATP binding to the catalytic site, the anisotropy and the total fluorescence intensity decreased by 6.8 and 23.9%, respectively. These drops likely occurred in the enzyme.ATP complex. The extents of changes upon additions of Ca2+ and ATP in the anisotropy, but not in the total fluorescence intensity, were greatly reduced by lowering the temperature. Slight drops in the anisotropy and the total fluorescence intensity occurred upon conversion of phosphoenzyme (EP) from the ADP-sensitive form to the ADP-insensitive form. The anisotropy and the total fluorescence intensity returned to the initial level when EP was hydrolyzed. Mg2+-dependent Pi-induced drops in the anisotropy and the total fluorescence intensity occurred coincidently with EP formation from Pi. These demonstrate that the ATP-induced drops in the anisotropy and the total fluorescence intensity are predominant throughout the catalytic cycle. Most probably, the changes in the anisotropy are due to changes in the rotational diffusion of the label. These findings indicate that ATP binding to the catalytic site induces a relaxed conformation in the microenvironment of the label bound to Cys674. PMID- 2521339 TI - Integrin phosphorylation is modulated during the differentiation of F-9 teratocarcinoma stem cells. AB - The retinoic acid-induced differentiation of F-9 teratocarcinoma cells in monolayer culture is accompanied by the accumulation of fibrillar fibronectin deposits, the appearance of a highly structured actin cytoskeleton, and the redistribution of integrin to apparent sites of substrate contact. We have studied the 140-kD fibronectin receptor during this process and report that although the integrin molecule is present in equivalent amounts before and after differentiation, the level of integrin phosphorylation decreases dramatically as the cells differentiate. This loss of phosphorylation coincides temporally with the observed changes in actin, fibronectin, and integrin organization. The phosphorylation state of integrin thus may mediate developmentally regulated cell matrix interactions. PMID- 2521340 TI - Modulation of growth factor induced fiber outgrowth in rat pheochromocytoma (PC12) cells by a fibronectin receptor antibody. AB - Rat pheochromocytoma PC12 cells respond to the binding of nerve growth factor (NGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) by extending neurites in a manner resembling sympathetic neurons. This response requires cell attachment to an appropriate substratum (Fujii et al., J. Neurosci., 2:1157, 1982); attachment factors which function in this capacity include the adhesive proteins fibronectin and laminin. Incubating PC12 cells with a polyclonal antiserum directed against a putative 140-kDa fibroblast cell surface fibronectin receptor (anti-gp140) perturbed spreading but not attachment of the cells to fibronectin and laminin substrates. However, in the presence of anti-gp 140 or its Fab fragments, NGF stimulated neurite outgrowth was dramatically reduced. The antibody also caused a retraction of previously extended neurites. SDS-PAGE analysis of immunoprecipitates of PC12 cells surface labeled with 125I identified a prominent 120-140-kDa band, suggesting that the site of anti-gp140 action in PC12 cells is also through a fibronectin receptor. PMID- 2521341 TI - Changes of genetic apolipoprotein phenotypes caused by liver transplantation. Implications for apolipoprotein synthesis. AB - Liver transplantation provides a unique opportunity to investigate the contribution in vivo of the liver to the synthesis and degradation of genetically polymorphic plasma proteins. We have determined the genetic polymorphisms plasma proteins. We have determined the genetic polymorphisms of apo A-IV, apo E, and of the Lp(a) glycoprotein (apo (a] in the plasma of subjects undergoing liver transplantation and in respective organ donors. The results show that in humans, greater than 90% of the plasma apo E and virtually all apo (a) are liver derived, whereas this organ does not significantly contribute to plasma apo A-IV levels. PMID- 2521342 TI - Augmented expression of atrial natriuretic polypeptide gene in ventricle of human failing heart. AB - To elucidate the expression of the atrial natriuretic polypeptide (ANP) gene in the ventricle of the human failing heart, we have measured ANP and ANP messenger RNA (ANPmRNA) levels in left ventricular aneurysm obtained at operation, biopsy specimens of left ventricles from dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and autopsy samples of old myocardial infarction (OMI) and DCM hearts, and compared the levels with those in the normal ventricle. The ANP level (mean +/- SE) was 17.5 +/- 6.9 ng/g in the normal ventricle, and increased to 660.3 +/- 122.2 ng/g in the left ventricular aneurysm tissues and to 3,138.6 +/- 1,642.1 ng/g in the biopsy specimens of the DCM ventricle. These levels were approximately 40 and 200 times higher than in the normal ventricle. The increase of ANP levels was observed in both infarcted and noninfarcted regions of the OMI heart, and in the entire ventricle of the DCM heart. A significant positive correlation was found between the ANP level in aneurysm tissues and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (r = 0.85). The ANPmRNA level in the left ventricular aneurysm showed about a 10 fold increase compared with that in the normal heart and reached 23% of that in the atrium of the same heart. A similar increase in the ANPmRNA level was observed in the entire ventricle of DCM. These data clearly indicate that the expression of the ANP gene in the ventricle is augmented in the failing heart in accordance with the severity of heart failure. In the atrium of the failing heart, ANP and ANPmRNA levels were only two times higher than those in the normal atrium. Thus, the augmentation in the expression of the ANP gene was more prominent in the ventricle than in the atrium. Taking tissue weight into account, the total content of ANPmRNA in the ventricle of the failing heart is much the same as that in the normal atrium. The ratio of the ANP level to the ANPmRNA level in the ventricle is much smaller than that in the atrium. These results suggest more rapid secretion of ANP after synthesis in the ventricle. These findings demonstrate that the expression of the ANP gene is augmented in the human ventricle of the failing heart and suggest that the ventricle becomes a substantial source of circulating ANP in congestive heart failure. PMID- 2521343 TI - Increased secretion of atrial natriuretic polypeptide from the left ventricle in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy. AB - To examine whether atrial natriuretic polypeptide (ANP) is released from the left ventricle in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) we measured plasma ANP level in the aortic root (Ao), the anterior interventricular vein (AIV), the great cardiac vein (GCV), and the coronary sinus (CS) in 11 patients with DCM and 18 control subjects. Plasma ANP levels in Ao, AIV, GCV, and CS were 454 +/- 360, 915 +/- 584, 1,308 +/- 926, and 1,884 +/- 1,194 pg/ml, respectively, in the patients with DCM and 108 +/- 42, 127 +/- 55, 461 +/- 224, and 682 +/- 341 pg/ml, respectively, in the control subjects. There was no significant difference in the plasma ANP levels between Ao and AIV in the control subjects. On the contrary, there was a significant (P less than 0.001) step-up in plasma ANP levels between Ao and AIV in patients with DCM. Thus, the difference in ANP levels between Ao and AIV was significantly increased in patients with DCM as compared with the control subjects (461 +/- 248 vs. 19 +/- 59 pg/ml, P less than 0.001). The difference in ANP levels between Ao and CS was also significantly increased in patients with DCM as compared with the control subjects (1,429 +/- 890 vs. 577 +/ 318 pg/ml, P less than 0.001). We conclude that ANP is released in increased amounts into the circulation from the left ventricle as well as from the heart as a whole in patients with DCM. PMID- 2521344 TI - MR imaging of endometriosis arising in cesarean section scar. AB - Endometriosis of the abdominal wall is rare and usually arises in a surgical incision. Magnetic resonance (MR) has been used to evaluate endometriosis of the ovaries. A case of endometriosis in a cesarean section scar is presented and evaluated with CT and MR. PMID- 2521345 TI - T help requirements for the generation of an in vivo IgE response: a late acting form of T cell help other than IL-4 is required for IgE but not for IgG1 production. AB - To further define requirements for T cell help in the stimulation of an in vivo IgE response, we studied a system in which the injection of mice with a goat antibody to mouse IgD (GaMD) stimulates large polyclonal IgG1 and IgE responses. In this system, both responses are blocked by anti-CD4 antibody, but only the IgE response is blocked by (anti-IL-4) antibody. Anti-CD4 antibody, if injected 5 days after GaMD, was found to inhibit the GaMD-induced IgE response to a much greater extent than the IgG1 response, even though both responses occur simultaneously and are inhibited to an equal extent by optimal or suboptimal doses of anti-CD4 antibody administered 2 days after GaMD. Even a suboptimal, 50 micrograms dose of anti-CD4 antibody, when injected 5 days after GaMD, inhibited the IgE response to a much greater extent than did an optimal 10-mg dose of anti IL-4 antibody injected at the same time, even though 10 mg of anti-IL-4 antibody more completely inhibited GaMD-induced IgE production than did 50 micrograms of anti-CD4 antibody when injected 2 days after GaMD. These observations provide evidence that a late acting form of T cell help other than IL-4 is important for the generation of an IgE response but not an IgG1 response in GaMD-immunized mice. PMID- 2521346 TI - A natural neonatal hybridoma autoantibody to the T200 antigen. AB - We report on the production and characterization of a murine hybridoma generated from neonatal (less than 24 h from birth) unstimulated BALB/c splenocytes that produces an IgG2b kappa-antibody (21G10) reacting with a cell surface Ag of murine lymphocytes. By immunoprecipitation technique we determined that the Ag recognized by autoantibody 21G10 has an apparent m.w. of 200 kDa and is present on both T and B lymphocytes but not on fibroblasts. Together with the pattern of immunoprecipitation and the cell lineage distribution we suggest that autoantibody 21G10 likely recognizes the common leukocyte Ag T200. This is further inferred by using a mutant (T200-) cell line and a reference anti-T200 mAb in immunodepletion experiments. Functionally, autoantibody 21G10 blocks (greater than 90%) the incorporation of [3H]TdR by T lymphocytes stimulated in vitro with Con A, and inhibits the production of IL-2 by these cultures. This report demonstrates the existence of autoantibodies directed against lymphocyte cell surface Ag within the natural preimmune repertoire. The implication of this finding with regard to T-B cells interaction early in ontogeny is discussed. PMID- 2521347 TI - Transfusion induces blood donor-specific suppressor cells. AB - Transfusion with blood from the organ donor before transplantation can prolong the survival of renal allografts in the rat. To determine if the beneficial effect of preoperative blood transfusion was due to the generation of donor specific suppressor cells, in vivo and in vitro adoptive transfer experiments were performed. Lymphoid cells were harvested from transfused and untreated rats. These cells were then either (1) transferred to lightly irradiated (200 R) syngeneic hosts which were subsequently challenged with a kidney allograft (in vivo assay) or (2) titrated as regulator cells into naive unidirectional MLC such that the regulator and responder populations were syngeneic. In the LEW-RT1 to DA RT1av1 strain combination, the adoptive transfer of thoracic duct lymph (TDL) or lymph node (LN) cells (5 x 10(7) to 7.5 x 10(7) cells) from DA animals transfused with LEW blood, 7 days previously into syngeneic (DA), lightly irradiated (200 R) hosts resulted in the indefinite survival of LEW kidney allografts. The phenomenon was blood donor-specific and dose-dependent. In contrast the adoptive transfer of spleen cells (10(7) to 10(8] from blood transfused hosts 7 days after transfusion had no effect on renal allograft survival. In vitro the addition of LN or TDL regulator cells, harvested from DA rats transfused with LEW blood, to a unidirectional MLC (DA responders, LEW stimulators) resulted in a significant depression of the proliferative response when compared with the proliferation of these same cells without the addition of these regulator cells or with the addition of LN or TDL regulator cells from a DA rat transfused with third party (PVG-RT1c) blood. The depression of the proliferative response observed in vitro, was blood donor specific. When LN or TDL regulator cells from a DA rat transfused with PVG-RT1c blood were added to a unidirectional MLC between DA responders and PVG stimulators, a significant depression in the proliferative response was observed. These in vitro findings were confirmed in two other strain combinations (LEW-PVG, and DA-PVG). Thus a single blood transfusion results in the induction of donor-specific suppressor cells detectable both in vivo and in vitro 7 days after transfusion in some but not all lymphoid compartments. PMID- 2521348 TI - Binding the low affinity Fc epsilon R on B cells suppresses ongoing human IgE synthesis. AB - Our results support the hypothesis that binding the low affinity Fc epsilon R (Fc epsilon R-II, CD23) on IgE-secreting B cells, directly suppresses IgE production. IgE production from AF-10/U266 (a human IgE plasmacytoma) decreased upon incubation with anti-IgE mAb or IgE:anti-IgE immune complexes (IgE-IC). Synthesis was suppressed a maximum of 51% with 10 micrograms/ml of IgE-IC after a 24-h incubation. Spontaneous in vitro IgE synthesis from the B cells of highly atopic individuals was also inhibited in a similar fashion. This effect was isotype specific as IgA or IgG immune complexes did not alter IgE production from AF-10 nor did IgE-IC affect IgA or IgG synthesis from lymphoblastoid cell lines making IgG (GM1500 and RPMI 8866) or IgA (GM1056). U266/AF-10 cells displayed both membrane IgE (greater than 90%) and Fc epsilon R-II (23%). To evaluate the role of these membrane proteins in the observed suppression of IgE synthesis, we treated U266/AF-10 cells with IgE-IC that bound Fc epsilon R-II but could not bind membrane IgE, as the mAb used was directed against an idiotypic determinant on the myeloma IgE (PS) used to make the IgE-IC. Suppression was maximal (greater than 50%) with these complexes at 0.1 micrograms/ml and at a 1/1 ratio of mAb anti-IgE to human myeloma IgE. When IgE-IC were used that were constructed with heat denatured IgE or F(ab')2 fragments of IgE, suppression was abrogated indicating IgE-Fc epsilon R binding was required. Neither PS IgE nor mAb 5.1 (the components of IgE-IC) alone affected IgE synthesis. Furthermore, a mAb binding directly to CD23 suppressed IgE synthesis from AF-10 up to 60%. Using limiting dilution analysis, we determined that IgE production per AF-10 cell was constant (0.9 pg/cell/24 h), independent of cell density and cells incubated with IgE-IC were uniformly suppressed. To clarify the mechanism of IgE-IC-induced suppression on AF-10 cells, we assessed both the proliferative rate and cell cycle distribution upon incubation with IgE-IC. There was no correlation between IgE production and [3H]TdR incorporation by AF-10 cells incubated with IgE-IC or anti CD23 mAb. The distribution of cells within the cell cycle was unaffected by these treatments, with 60% of the cells in G1. These results define a direct role for the Fc epsilon R-II on B cells in the regulation of ongoing IgE synthesis. PMID- 2521349 TI - Presence of IL-1 receptors on human and murine neutrophils. Relevance to IL-1 mediated effects in inflammation. AB - Inflammatory responses are characterized by the infiltration of polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) at the involved site. IL-1 may have an important role in mediating this response, but whether IL-1 acts directly on PMN is controversial. In this study, we examined PMN for the presence of IL-1R and determined the effect of IL-1 on PMN migration in vivo. Thioglycollate, proteose-peptone, or IL 1 elicited peritoneal exudate cells were found to bind 125I-IL-1 alpha in a specific and saturable manner. This binding was localized to the PMN in the exudate. Scatchard plot analysis indicates the presence of approximately 1700 receptors per PMN and an apparent dissociation constant of 3.0 x 10(-10) M. Binding sites for 125I-IL-1 alpha were also found on human PMN prepared from peripheral blood. There are approximately 900 receptors per cell on human PMN with a dissociation constant similar to that observed for elicited murine PMN. Binding of 125I-IL-1 alpha to the mouse and human PMN is inhibited by both recombinant human IL-1 alpha and IL-1 beta, indicating that both IL-1 proteins bind to the same receptor on these cells. Human PMN were able to internalize radioiodinated IL-1. We conclude that PMN possess receptors for IL-1 and that these binding sites may be important in mediating IL-1 effects on granulocytes that are involved in the inflammatory response. PMID- 2521350 TI - Differential IgG-binding characteristics of staphylococcal protein A, streptococcal protein G, and a chimeric protein AG. AB - Various Gram-positive bacteria express different types of IgG-binding receptors, each of which displaying certain unique binding properties. To evaluate specificity and avidity aspects of the differential binding pattern, a set of competitive binding assays was employed, by using staphylococcal protein A (SPA), streptococcal protein G (SPG), and a chimeric protein AG. These receptors were analyzed, in a reciprocal fashion, for binding and inhibition of binding to a selected panel of polyclonal and monoclonal Ig. Results of the study reveal that a majority of the determinants on human and bovine IgG, recognized by SPA and SPG, are either coextensive or closely overlapping. Accordingly, a minor portion of the determinants appear to be unique in the sense that a particular determinant(s) is selectively identified by one of the two receptors. Binding assays involving purified Fc fragments from human IgG, suggest that SPG shows exclusive specificity for an Fab region determinant(s) not recognized by SPA, whereas the Fc determinants for SPA and SPG are identical or overlapping. Furthermore, one of the IgG subclasses of bovine origin appears to be seen by the SPG receptor only. The competition study also demonstrates that the novel chimeric protein AG receptor shows higher or equal avidity for variants of human IgG molecules compared to the best of its parental constituents. It can thus be deduced that chimeric receptors might be useful as optimized tools for immunologic applications. PMID- 2521351 TI - Protein kinase C-dependent and -independent mechanisms of cloned murine T cell proliferation. The role of protein kinase C translocation and protein kinase C activity. AB - PMA can induce the proliferation of several CTL clones but not of several Th clones derived and tested in our laboratory. The PMA-stimulated proliferation of our CTL clones (which do not make IL-2 mRNA or protein) occurs independently of IL-2 and is not accompanied by lymphokine release. We now report, however, that protein kinase C (PKC) translocation is induced by PMA in CTL clones as well as in Th clones, which lack a proliferative response to PMA. These results suggest that PKC translocation itself is not a sufficient regulatory mechanism to account for cloned T cell proliferation. Moreover, IL-2 did not induce PKC translocation in a CTL clone, which proliferates when stimulated with IL-2. Thus, PKC translocation may not be necessary for activation of CTL proliferation. Nonetheless, cellular PKC activity appears to be required for the proliferative response of T cell clones after stimulation by PMA/PMA + calcium ionophore (A23187) or by triggering through the TCR: chronic PMA treatment, which depletes intracellular PKC activity, abrogates the proliferative response of T cell clones stimulated by PMA/PMA + A23187 or triggered through the TCR. T cell clones depleted of PKC activity, however, retain the ability to proliferate when challenged with IL-2. Murine T cell clones, therefore, possess PKC-dependent and PKC-independent pathways of proliferation that are not regulated by PKC translocation alone. PMID- 2521352 TI - Paradoxical role of capsule in murine bronchoalveolar macrophage-mediated killing of Cryptococcus neoformans. AB - Infections with the encapsulated fungus Cryptococcus neoformans are usually acquired via inhalation, and the presence of a capsule has been identified as a virulence factor. Therefore, we studied murine bronchoalveolar macrophage (BAM) mediated killing and phagocytosis of encapsulated and acapsular strains of C. neoformans. After 2 h, BAM killed encapsulated strains CN52 and MP415 more readily than acapsular strains CN602 and CAP67 (54.9 and 36.2% vs 26.1 and 6.7%, respectively, p less than 0.001). Pre-incubating CN602 with purified capsular polysaccharide increased killing to 42.7% (p = 0.04). Significantly greater killing of the encapsulated strains also occurred in vivo. BAM-mediated killing of CN52 appeared to proceed by non-oxidative mechanisms, as BAM released minimal amounts of H2O2 after stimulation with CN52, and killing was not reduced by inhibitors or scavengers of the respiratory burst. The association between encapsulation and susceptibility to BAM fungicidal effects was not attributable to differences in yeast ingestion. Using the same low ratio of organisms to BAM as in the killing assay, greater than 95% of both CN52 and CN602 were phagocytosed. However, BAM phagocytosed significantly greater numbers of acapsular CN602 when incubated with a higher inoculum. Phagocytosis and killing of CN52 and CN602 required fresh serum as a source of C. Phagocytosis of CN52, but not CN602, was profoundly inhibited if BAM were plated on surfaces coated with mAb against the C3bR (CR1). mAb against the iC3b receptor (CR3) did not affect phagocytosis of either strain. These data demonstrate the innate ability of BAM to preferentially kill, by apparently non-oxidative mechanisms, an encapsulated as opposed to acapsular organism. Inasmuch as different receptors appear involved in phagocytosis of encapsulated versus acapsular C. neoformans, the disparity in killing may result from the greater ability of receptors mediating uptake of encapsulated organisms to trigger the antimicrobial armamentarium of the BAM. PMID- 2521353 TI - A family of small inducible proteins secreted by leukocytes are members of a new superfamily that includes leukocyte and fibroblast-derived inflammatory agents, growth factors, and indicators of various activation processes. AB - We have isolated and characterized four cDNA clones that encode mRNA expressed more abundantly in Con A-activated mouse helper T cells than by resting T cells. One mRNA encoded a approximately 14-kDa protein with a hydrophobic N-terminal sequence and was abundantly expressed by the Th 2 subset of Th cells, but was not expressed by Th 1 cells. The remaining three mRNA encoded related approximately 8 kDa secreted proteins that are part of a family of small, secreted, and inducible mouse and human proteins. This family of proteins is itself distantly related to another family of growth and inflammatory factors that are associated with various lymphoid and fibroblast activation phenomena. One of the small, inducible, secreted proteins has a predicted mature N terminus identical to that of the previously described macrophage inflammatory protein. PMID- 2521354 TI - Interactions between receptors for interleukin 2 and interleukin 4 on lines of helper T cells (HT-2) and B lymphoma cells (BCL1). AB - IL-2 and IL-4 induce a synergistic proliferative response in HT-2 cells, suggesting that IL-2Rs and IL-4Rs may interact. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of IL-4 on the expression and function of IL-2Rs. Preincubation of HT-2 and BCL1-3B3 cells with IL-4 for 60 min at 4 degrees C or 37 degrees C resulted in a partial decrease in the number, but not the affinity of high affinity IL-2Rs as evidenced by Scatchard analysis of binding data. The decrease in the number of high affinity receptors correlated with decreased internalization of IL-2. After preincubation with IL-4, crosslinking of 125I-IL-2 to high affinity IL-2Rs also demonstrated a approximately 50% reduction in the number of high affinity IL-2Rs. Another lymphokine, IL-1, which acts on HT-2 cells, had no measurable effect on the affinity or number of IL-2Rs. Taken together, these results indicate that IL-4 downregulates the expression of high affinity IL-2Rs on some cells. It is not known whether this occurs by a direct ligand-mediated receptor interaction, by the sharing of a common receptor subunit, or by interaction of the two receptors with another membrane molecule or cytoskeletal component. PMID- 2521356 TI - Antibody to the murine type 3 complement receptor inhibits T lymphocyte-dependent recruitment of myelomonocytic cells in vivo. AB - We have used the delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) response to SRBC or tuberculin to examine the role of the murine type 3 complement receptor in T lymphocyte-dependent inflammatory recruitment. Intravenous injection of 5C6, a CR3-specific rat mAb known to impair myelomonocytic adhesion, divided the DTH to SRBC in actively immunized mice into two phases. The early phase, which lasted 24 h, was characterized by maximal oedema and maximal inflammatory recruitment and was 5C6 inhibitable. The later phase was 5C6 resistant and reached a peak 48 h after antigenic challenge and was superimposable on the declining peak seen in control mice. Passive transfer of reactive T cells mixed with antigen was used to examine the myelomonocytic effector arm of the DTH alone. Both passive transfer of cutaneous DTH to SRBC and passive transfer of the largely monocytic T cell dependent recruitment to tuberculin in the peritoneal cavity were completely abolished by systemic 5C6 treatment. Injection of 5C6-treated donor leukocytes at the site of passive transfer had no effect. Treatment of donor mice with 5C6 at the time of active immunization did not alter their ability to provide reactive T cells for passive transfer. The myelomonocyte-restricted rat mAb 7/4 and the rapidly cleared F(ab')2 fragment of 5C6 showed no inhibition of the DTH. In all cases, inhibition of footpad swelling correlated with histological evidence of inhibition of myelomonocytic cell recruitment. Peritoneal cell counts after local DTH to tuberculin showed complete inhibition of monocyte recruitment. We conclude that CR3 plays a quantitatively important role in T cell-dependent inflammatory recruitment. This is absolute in passive transfer experiments, but only partial after active immunization. Leukocyte CR3 plays a common role in both immunologically specific and nonspecific inflammatory recruitment and provides a target that could possibly be manipulated to therapeutic advantage. PMID- 2521355 TI - Diversity and structure of human T cell receptor delta chain genes in peripheral blood gamma/delta-bearing T lymphocytes. AB - We have investigated the diversity and repertoire of human TCR delta chain variable gene segments in the human peripheral blood CD4- CD8- (double-negative) population, using rearrangement and expression studies and sequence analyses. 20 TCR delta DNA clones were derived from the RNA of bulk-cultured double-negative T cells and their nucleotide sequences determined. These clones can be classified into six different V delta subfamilies. The distribution, however, was uneven in these cells, with 16 of 20 being derived from the V delta 1 (9) and V delta 2 (7) subfamilies. The remaining subfamilies, V delta 3, V delta 4, V delta 5, and V delta 6, were only represented by one clone each. The majority of these subfamilies seem to consist of a single member, in contrast with the closely linked V alpha subfamilies, which, in most cases, consist of multiple members. Our findings suggest that only a limited number of V delta genes are used in human peripheral blood double-negative T cells and that two major V delta subfamilies (V delta 1 and V delta 2) are used more frequently. Sequence comparison of our cDNA clones to V alpha clones indicates that there is no overlap in usage of V alpha and V delta gene segments, except for the V delta 4 (V alpha 6) subfamily. Comparison of the different V delta sequences suggests that the majority of the sequence diversity is concentrated in the junctions between V, D, and J segments and results from extensive N region diversity. PMID- 2521358 TI - Structural gene for human membrane cofactor protein (MCP) of complement maps to within 100 kb of the 3' end of the C3b/C4b receptor gene. AB - The structural gene for membrane cofactor protein (MCP), a widely distributed C3b/C4b binding regulatory glycoprotein of the complement system, has been mapped to the same locus as the structural genes for CR1, CR2, DAF, and C4bp. The order of the genes within an approximately 800-kb DNA fragment on the long arm of chromosome 1 is MCP-CR1-CR2-DAF-C4bp. Further, the MCP gene maps to within 100 kb of 3' end of the CR1 gene. PMID- 2521357 TI - Production of hematopoietic colony-stimulating factors by human natural killer cells. AB - We have analyzed the ability of highly purified preparations of human NK cells to produce CSF. NK cells, purified by negative selection from 10-d cultures of PBMC incubated with irradiated B-lymphoblastoid cell lines, were stimulated with rIL 2, FcR(CD16) ligands (particulate immune complexes or anti-CD16 antibodies bound to Sepharose), a combination of CD16 ligands and rIL-2, or the phorbol diester phorbol dibutyrate (PDBu) together with the Ca2+ ionophore A23187. Both rIL-2 and CD16 ligands induce accumulation of GM-CSF mRNA in NK cells and the combined effect of the two stimuli is synergistic. Maximal accumulation of GM-CSF mRNA is observed after PDBu/A23187 stimulation. The participation of contaminant T cells in the observed expression of the GM-CSF gene is excluded because CD16 ligands do not stimulate T cells and CD3 ligands, powerful stimulators of T cells, are inactive on NK cells. Accumulation of CSF-1 mRNA is observed only in NK cells stimulated with both CD16 ligands and rIL-2, whereas accumulation of IL-3 mRNA is observed only in NK cells stimulated with PDBu/A23187. Transcripts of the G-CSF, IL-1 alpha, and IL-1 beta genes were never detected in NK cells in these experiments. The kinetics of accumulation of GM-CSF and CSF-1 mRNA in NK cells stimulated with CD16 ligands and rIL-2 peaked at 2-4 h and was slower than that of TNF and IFN-gamma mRNA, which peak at 1 h. GM-CSF was precipitated from the supernatant fluids of NK cells stimulated with PDBu/A23187 and its biological activity was demonstrated by the ability of the supernatants to sustain proliferation of the TALL-101 cell line or CML blasts. Biological activity of IL 3 and CSF-1 was demonstrable in supernatant fluids of NK cells stimulated with PDBu/A23187 and CD16 ligands/rIL-2, respectively. PMID- 2521359 TI - Differential modulation of D1 and D2 dopamine-sensitive adenylate cyclases by 17 beta-estradiol in cultured striatal neurons and anterior pituitary cells. AB - Primary cultures of anterior pituitary cells from female rats and of mouse embryonic striatal neurons were used to study the effects of 17 beta-estradiol on D1- and D2-dopamine (DA)-sensitive adenylate cyclase. 17 beta-Estradiol pretreatment (10(-9) M, 72 h) suppressed the D2-DA-induced inhibition of adenylate cyclase activity in anterior pituitary cells. The steroid (10(-9) M, 24 h) also blocked the D2-DA-evoked response in striatal neurons whereas it enhanced by twofold the D1-DA-induced stimulation of the enzyme activity in these neurons. All these effects of the steroid were dose dependent and specific, as neither 17 alpha-estradiol, dexamethasone, nor progesterone used at the same concentration (10(-9) M) was effective. Furthermore, the modulation of DA-sensitive adenylate cyclases by the steroid required long-term exposure of living cells to 17 beta estradiol since neither 17 beta-estradiol pretreatment for 4 h nor its addition to broken cells directly into the adenylate cyclase assay induced any alteration in the DA-sensitive adenylate cyclase activity. These results are in agreement with a genomic effect of the steroid. Using both anterior pituitary cells and striatal neurons in culture, 17 beta-estradiol affected neither the total number of DA (D1 and D2) receptors nor the estimated number of adenylate cyclase catalytic units. Therefore, it is suggested that the steroid modifies the coupling process by a mechanism that still has to be elucidated. These results demonstrate an effect of 17 beta-estradiol on DA target cells in both systems.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521360 TI - Inhibition of monoamine oxidase within monoaminergic neurons in the rat brain by (E)-beta-fluoromethylene-m-tyrosine (MDL 72394). AB - The irreversible inhibition of the monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity within monoaminergic neurons in the rat brain 24 h after single or repeated administration of (E)-beta-fluoromethylene-m-tyrosine (FMMT, MDL 72394) was examined. The enzyme activity was determined by incubating synaptosome-rich homogenates of hypothalamus or striatum with low concentrations of 5 [14C]hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), [14C]noradrenaline (NA), or [14C]dopamine (DA) in the absence and presence of the selective amine uptake inhibitors citalopram (5 HT), maprotiline (NA), and GBR 12909 (DA). After a single subcutaneous injection of FMMT, the inhibition of MAO within the noradrenergic and dopaminergic neurons was significant but only slightly greater than that outside these neurons. The opposite relationship was observed for the serotonergic neurons. After 7 days' treatment of rats with carbidopa, 20 mg/kg p.o., + FMMT once daily, the preference for the inhibition of MAO within the noradrenergic and dopaminergic neurons was accentuated further. The inhibition outside the serotonergic neurons was still greater than within these neurons. The NA uptake inhibitor CPP 199 antagonized the selective inhibition of MAO within the noradrenergic neurons, which indicates that this preference is due to the accumulation of the active metabolite (E)-beta-fluoromethylene-m-tyramine by the NA transporter. PMID- 2521361 TI - Polyurethane-coated Dacron mesh tray for temporary mandibular reconstruction following resection of oral cancer: clinical results of 27 cases. AB - During a 3-year period from 1983 to 1986, a polyurethane-coated Dacron mesh tray (Xomed Inc, Jacksonville, FL) was used in 27 cases for temporary mandibular reconstruction in patients who had undergone jaw resection for oral carcinoma. Delayed mandibular reconstruction using the Dacron mesh tray combined with rib grafts was performed in three cases. The Dacron mesh tray technique provides good functional and esthetic results and offers several advantages when compared with metal trays. The success rate was 74%; intraoral perforation was the main reason for early removal of the tray. PMID- 2521362 TI - Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty versus operation for peripheral arteriosclerosis. Report of a prospective randomized trial in a selected group of patients. AB - A prospective, randomized comparison of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) with surgery in the treatment of occlusive disease of the iliac, superficial femoral, or popliteal arteries began in 1983. Radiologists and vascular surgeons independently assessed index lesions on arteriograms to decide whether their respective treatments were appropriate. Of 263 male patients randomized, 255 received vascular intervention (surgery, 126 patients; PTA, 129 patients). The groups were comparable when stratified for systemic risk factors and anatomic distribution of disease. Because eligibility criteria required that all lesions randomized for treatment be suitable for PTA, the severity of disease was less than that of the general population having vascular disease. Claudication was the principal indication for intervention. The immediate failure rate for PTA was 15.5% (20 of 129 patients). Surgery was performed with one in hospital death (0.8%) and 17 complications (13.5%). There were two late deaths ascribable to surgical complications and none to PTA. At 4.5 years, 50 deaths (20%) (28 from surgery; 22 with PTA) and 24 major amputations of legs included in the study (13 with surgery; 11 with PTA) have occurred. The baseline ankle brachial indexes (ABIs) of 0.51 +/- 0.02, respectively, after treatment and was not different between the groups through 36 months (surgery, 0.28 +/- 0.04; PTA, 0.30 +/- 0.05). The 17 patients undergoing surgery after unsuccessful PTA had a mean ABI increase of 0.32 +/- 0.07; the durability of hemodynamic improvement was similar in both groups of patients. PMID- 2521364 TI - Salvage of in situ femoropopliteal and femorotibial saphenous vein bypass with interventional radiology. PMID- 2521363 TI - Initial results of laser recanalization in lower extremity arterial reconstruction. AB - One hundred ninety-five patients have been evaluated for possible laser recanalization (LR). Current laser delivery systems are most appropriate for the treatment of superficial femoral, popliteal, or isolated common iliac artery occlusions, and therefore one half (110) of the patients were initially excluded because of inappropriate disease location. An additional 39 patients were excluded because they showed minimal symptoms or the procedure would have been excessively risky for them. The remaining 46 patients underwent LR for total arterial occlusions, with relief of symptoms and increased ankle brachial indexes in 22 (48%). Of the four patients who could not be surgically reconstructed because of tibial artery occlusion, none was successfully treated. Only one patient required emergency reconstruction for ischemia after LR failure, and no procedures were required for treatment of perforation or bleeding. Successful LR was most likely when isolated lesions less than 15 cm in length, in the common iliac, middle or distal superficial femoral, and above-knee popliteal arteries were treated. Of the 22 patients for whom LR was successful, 11 would have been candidates for standard surgical therapy, six would have been excluded from such therapy by medical or surgical risks, and five had symptoms usually considered too mild to be offered surgery. Thus, at present the impact of LR on the treatment of patients with peripheral vascular disease appears limited. PMID- 2521365 TI - Morphometrical and biochemical differences of endocrine pancreata between spontaneously hypertensive and normotensive rats with or without neonatal streptozotocin-induced diabetes. AB - We studied the morphometrical and biochemical changes of endocrine pancreata in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and normotensive Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY) with or without noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus induced by neonatal streptozotocin (STZ) treatment at 4 months of age. Female (2-day-old) neonates were intraperitoneally injected with 62.5 or 75.0 mg/kg of STZ for SHR, 87.5 or 100.0 mg/kg of STZ for WKY, and vehicle for control. In STZ-treated groups, overt hyperglycemia developed in SHR with significantly decreased serum immunoreactive insulin (IRI), whereas in WKY, hyperglycemia was very mild and serum IRI was not lowered. The number and mean size of pancreatic islets did not differ between SHR and WKY, although mean islet size was reduced by half in both compared with that in the corresponding control, respectively. Percentage distribution of insulin positive B cells in the islet was significantly reduced more in SHR than in WKY (34% of control versus 64% of control, p less than 0.05). Furthermore, pancreatic IRI content was far more reduced in SHR than in WKY (3% of control versus 43% of control, p less than 0.001). In vehicle-treated groups, the glycemic levels and the morphometrical islets did not differ between SHR and WKY. However, serum IRI was significantly lower but pancreatic IRI content was higher in SHR than in WKY. The mechanisms of strain differences between SHR and WKY seen in the present study were discussed. PMID- 2521366 TI - Comparison of the metabolic response of the hypertrophic and the normal heart to hypothermic cardioplegia. The effect of temperature. AB - The aim of this study was to test for metabolic differences in the response of hypertrophic and normal hearts to hypothermic cardioplegia. Hypertrophic dog hearts and normal control hearts were subjected to 6 hours of hypothermic cardioplegia with the St. Thomas' Hospital solution. Levels before arrest of subepicardial and subendocardial adenosine triphosphate, creatine phosphate, and lactate in eight hypertrophic hearts were the same as those levels in 12 normal hearts. In hypertrophic hearts, but not in normal hearts, the induction of arrest was slow and was associated with an 11% increase in adenosine triphosphate levels, a 59% decrease in creatine phosphate levels, and a 12-fold increase in lactate levels. Seven hypertrophic hearts and eight normal hearts were studied during 6 hours of arrest and showed no further differences in metabolic response. Reducing the myocardial temperature from 20 degrees C to 12 degrees C slowed the rate of depletion of adenosine triphosphate and the rate of accumulation of lactate in both groups. We conclude that in the nonfailing, severely hypertrophic heart, levels before arrest of high-energy phosphates and lactate are normal, but that marked biochemical changes may occur if the induction of arrest is prolonged because of underdosing with cardioplegic solution. Cooling from 20 degrees C to 12 degrees C improves myocardial preservation in both hypertrophic and normal hearts. PMID- 2521367 TI - Early and five-year results for coronary artery bypass grafting. A benchmark for percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. AB - Patients currently undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting will likely have worse early and late results because of the selection of patients with fewer risk factors for percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. Therefore, until the results of randomized prospective studies are available, angioplasty should also be compared to bypass grafting before the era of angioplasty to facilitate current comparison with bypass grafting. To obtain these data, I analyzed 500 consecutive patients (aged 33 to 79 years [58 +/- 10 SD], 20% [100/500] female, and 60% [300/500] with three vessel disease) undergoing first-time coronary bypass without associated procedures between late 1976 and mid-1980. Intermittent aortic cross-clamping (for each distal graft) was used for revascularization of all arteries 1.0 mm in internal diameter or larger with stenoses of 50% or greater. This strategy resulted in complete revascularization in 99.8% of patients, averaging 3.2 +/- 1.2 distal grafts per patient. The hospital mortality rate was 0.2% (1/500). The incidence of low output syndrome necessitating pressors (0.8%) or intraaortic balloon pump support (0.2%) was 1% (5/500). Perioperative myocardial infarction rate based on new Q waves was 2.2% (11/500). All but three patients (99.4%) were contacted at 5 years or later with respect to repeat coronary bypass or angioplasty and survival. The survival rate at 5 years, including hospital deaths, was 92.7% +/- 1.2% (70% confidence limits) for cardiac deaths, 89.8% +/- 1.4% for all deaths, and 89.8% +/- 1.4% for all deaths plus three patients lost to follow-up. Approximately 40 factors were screened univariately to determine their effect on survival and survival free from repeat intervention. Multivariate analysis revealed, as in other series, that decreased left ventricular function (ejection fraction less than 50%) was the predominant determinant of decreased 5-year survival for both cardiac death and total mortality. At 5 years, the freedom from reintervention was 97.7% +/- 0.7%. Factors associated with repeat intervention were younger age (52 +/- 11 years versus 58 +/- 10, p less than 0.05) and fewer grafts (2.3 +/- 1.0 versus 3.3 +/- 1.2, p less than 0.01) because of less severe disease (three vessel disease 31% versus 60%, p less than 0.05). These results provide a benchmark for angioplasty which should attain a hospital mortality rate of under 1%, a periprocedure myocardial infarction rate under 3%, and a 5-year survival rate of approximately 90% with more than 95% of survivors free of repeat intervention in unselected patients, not cohorts with primarily single vessel disease. PMID- 2521368 TI - Immunoelectron microscopy studies on the modulation of common acute lymphoblastic leukemia antigen (CALLA) on NALM-6 cells: delineation of intracellular transport. AB - Even though much is known about the presence of the common acute lymphoblastic leukemia antigen (CALLA) with respect to its distribution in hematopoietic and non-hematopoietic tissues, its functional role in lymphoid cells is as yet unknown. Given the fact that CALLA is completely modulated on the surface of lymphoid cells, we have employed pre-embedding immunogold techniques at electron microscopical level and demonstrated that J5 monoclonal antibody (MoAb)-mediated modulation of CALLA expression on the lymphoblastic cell line NALM-6 is a specific, rapid process, closely resembling receptor-mediated endocytosis. Furthermore, it was found that CALLA was internalized through plasmalemmal pits and cytoplasmic vesicles and processed intracellularly in multivesicular bodies and secondary lysosomes. In contrast, HLA-DR antigen remained at the cell surface upon contact with specific MoAb. These data suggest that CALLA might be a receptor for a hitherto unknown signal molecule. PMID- 2521369 TI - [Productivity loss of at least 5 billion Swedish crowns in 1986 because of disability and early age retirement of patients with low back disorders]. PMID- 2521370 TI - Trimetrexate for Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia. PMID- 2521371 TI - X-ray-induced specific-locus mutations in the ad-3 region of two-component heterokaryons of Neurospora crassa. II. More extensive genetic tests reveal an unexpectedly high frequency of multiple-locus mutations. AB - More extensive genetic tests have been performed on a series of 832 X-ray-induced specific-locus mutations in the ad-3 region of a 2-component heterokaryon (H-12) of Neurospora crassa, reported earlier (Webber and de Serres 1965). Using new tester strains and techniques for performing large-scale genetic tests (heterokaryon, dikaryon and trikaryon) to characterize ad-3 mutants induced in 2 component heterokaryons, new data have been obtained on this sample of X-ray induced ad-3 mutants. These new data show that unexpectedly high frequencies of both single-locus (gene/point) mutations and multilocus deletions in the ad-3 region have additional, but separate, sites of recessive lethal (RLCL) damage in the immediately adjacent genetic regions. The frequencies of these X-ray-induced multiple-locus mutants in the ad-3 region are orders of magnitude higher than expected on the basis of target theory and classical models of chromosome structure during interphase. Current models of interphase chromosome structure in higher eukaryotes as revealed by chromosome "painting" offer a possible explanation of the Neurospora data. PMID- 2521373 TI - Another vaccine enters the fray. PMID- 2521372 TI - The effect of 3-aminobenzamide on X-ray induction of chromosome aberrations in Down syndrome lymphocytes. AB - Human lymphocytes from normal and Down syndrome (DS) subjects were examined to determine the effect of 3-aminobenzamide (3AB) on X-ray-induced chromosome aberrations. Lymphocytes were treated with 150 or 300 rad of X-rays in the presence of 3 mM 3AB for various times after irradiation, and then the cells were analyzed for the presence of chromosome aberrations in mitotic cells. 3 Aminobenzamide had no effect on the frequency of chromosome aberrations produced by X-rays in G0 lymphocytes from normal subjects. In contrast, lymphocytes from DS patients displayed an increase in the frequency of chromosome aberrations as a result of treatment with X-rays in the presence of 3AB. These observations indicate that DS lymphocytes are more sensitive to the inhibition of poly(ADP)ribose synthetase than normal lymphocytes. PMID- 2521374 TI - US team returns with insights into Armenian earthquake. PMID- 2521375 TI - Antibodies to CD3/T-cell receptor complex induce death by apoptosis in immature T cells in thymic cultures. AB - The receptors found on most T lymphocytes bind to antigen presented on major histocompatibility complex proteins and consist of dimers of alpha- and beta polypeptides associated with the invariant CD3 complex. A fully competent immune system requires a diverse array of T-cell antigen receptors (TCRs) with different specificities. This diversity is generated by rearrangement of TCR alpha- and beta-chain gene segments within the thymus where the receptors are first expressed. Any cells carrying self-reactive receptors must be eliminated, suppressed or inactivated so that destructive autoimmunity is avoided. Recently, compelling evidence has shown that one process involved in producing such self tolerance is clonal deletion of autoreactive cells within the thymus by an as-yet undefined mechanism. Here we show that engaging the CD3/TCR complex of immature mouse thymocytes with anti-CD3 antibodies produces DNA degradation and cell death through the endogenous pathway of apoptosis. Activation of this process in immature T cells by the binding of the TCR to self-antigens may therefore be the mechanism which produces clonal deletion and consequently self-tolerance. PMID- 2521376 TI - Complete structure and expression in transfected cells of high affinity IgE receptor. AB - The high-affinity receptor for immunoglobulin E, Fc epsilon RI, is found exclusively on mast cells and basophils. When multivalent allergens bind to the receptor-bound IgE, the consequent aggregation of the receptors leads to the release of mediators responsible for allergic symptoms. In rodents Fc epsilon RI is a tetrameric complex of non-covalently attached subunits: one IgE-binding alpha subunit, one beta subunit and a dimer of disulphide-linked gamma subunits. Complementary DNA encoding the alpha and the beta subunits has recently been isolated, but expression of IgE-binding by transfected cells has not yet been achieved. Here we report the cloning of cDNA for the gamma subunit, and propose a model for the alpha beta gamma 2 tetramer which accounts for many of the structural features of the receptor. The rodent receptor on the surface of COS 7 cells was expressed only when the cDNAs for all three subunits were cotransfected. Successful expression of human IgE receptors should now be possible, eventually to permit the detailed analysis of the human IgE-receptor interaction and assist the search for therapeutically effective inhibitors. PMID- 2521377 TI - Tajikstan struck by earthquake. PMID- 2521378 TI - RNP in maize protein. PMID- 2521379 TI - Ultrasound detection of Down syndrome: is it really possible? AB - Several ultrasonographic signs have been described in second-trimester fetuses at high risk for Down syndrome. We examined these parameters in twin pregnancies in which one fetus was affected with Down syndrome and the other was normal. Biparietal diameter to femur length ratio was concordant (either normal or abnormal) in eight of nine sets of twins. Actual femur length to expected femur length ratio was concordant in seven of nine sets of twins. Nuchal fold thickening (6 mm or more) correctly identified five out of nine affected fetuses and was not present in any of the normal fetuses. In conclusion, neither ratio was helpful in differentiating the fetus with Down syndrome from its normal cotwin. A thickened nuchal fold was the most informative parameter examined. PMID- 2521380 TI - Laparoscopic removal of dermoid cysts. AB - Nine reproductive-age women underwent removal of unilateral or bilateral dermoid cysts via laparoscopy. Over a follow-up period of 12-42 months, there were no immediate or long-term complications. Four patients have had repeat laparoscopy for evaluation of possible pelvic adhesion formation; one had mild periovarian adhesions and the pelvis appeared normal in the other three. PMID- 2521381 TI - Transient ischemic attack: a complication of mitral valve prolapse in pregnancy. PMID- 2521382 TI - Genes expressed during conidiation in Neurospora crassa: characterization of con 8. AB - The filamentous fungus Neurospora crassa, by a series of defined changes, differentiates from a mycelium composed of branching hyphae to form dormant spores, called conidia. Several genes of unknown function (con genes) that are preferentially expressed during this period have been cloned. Transcription of these genes has been examined in conidiation-defective mutants, and the results obtained revealed that con-6, con-8, con-10, con-11 and con-13 are most likely to play a unique role during conidiation, con-8 is expressed early during conidial differentiation. Genomic and cDNA sequence analyses with con-8 clones identified one open reading frame, interrupted by two introns, which encodes a weakly acidic 18.4 kDa polypeptide containing 176 amino acid residues, con-8 is unusual in that it is transcribed as two mRNA species, 1.0 and 1.25 kb in length. S1 nuclease mapping and primer extension analyses identify one major initiation site, one major polyadenylation site, and demonstrated the existence of heterogeneity at the messenger's 5' and 3' ends. PMID- 2521383 TI - The interaction of E. coli integration host factor and lambda cos DNA: multiple complex formation and protein-induced bending. AB - The interaction of E. coli's integration Host Factor (IHF) with fragments of lambda DNA containing the cos site has been studied by gel-mobility retardation and electron microscopy. The cos fragment used in the mobility assays is 398 bp and spans a region from 48,298 to 194 on the lambda chromosome. Several different complexes of IHF with this fragment can be distinguished by their differential mobility on polyacrylamide gels. Relative band intensities indicate that the formation of a complex between IHF and this DNA fragment has an equilibrium binding constant of the same magnitude as DNA fragments containing lambda's attP site. Gel-mobility retardation and electron microscopy have been employed to show that IHF sharply bends DNA near cos and to map the bending site. The protein induced bend is near an intrinsic bend due to DNA sequence. The position of the bend suggests that IHF's role in lambda DNA packaging may be the enhancement of terminase binding/cos cutting by manipulating DNA structure. PMID- 2521384 TI - Self-reported adjustment, chronic sorrow, and coping of parents of children with Down syndrome. AB - Mothers and fathers of children with Down syndrome were surveyed on overall patterns of adjustment and on frequency of chronic sorrow and coping behaviors. Fathers overwhelmingly (83%) depicted their adjustment in terms of steady, gradual recovery, while the majority of mothers (68%) reported a peaks-and valleys, periodic crises pattern; chi 2 = 8.64, p less than .01. Mothers also reported higher frequencies for chronic sorrow as well as for behaviors such as self-blame and expression of negative affect. Thus, mothers and fathers in the same family may experience distinct differences in adjustment and coping as parents of a handicapped child. PMID- 2521385 TI - Regulation of thromboxane receptor activation in human platelets. AB - Thromboxane A2 (TxA2) is a potent platelet agonist that serves as an amplifying signal after exposure of platelets to other stimulants, such as thrombin, in vitro. Exposure of platelets to the TxA2 receptor agonists U46619 and SQ 26,655 (1.4 microM) resulted in a 60-90% decrease in subsequent TxA2 receptor-stimulated aggregation, calcium release, and protein kinase C activation. The desensitization was rapid, with a half-time of 2-3 min. The sequence of events involved in TxA2 receptor desensitization involves initial uncoupling of the receptor from a guanine nucleotide binding (G) protein followed by eventual receptor down-regulation. Consistent with this hypothesis were (i) a 60-70% decrease in SQ 26,655-stimulated platelet GTPase activity, (ii) a shift to the right of the dose-response curve for U46619-stimulated release of calcium [EC50, 275 +/- 51 nM (control)] vs. 475 +/- 71 nM (desensitized); P less than 0.01], and (iii) a delayed loss of receptor sites. In summary, exposure of platelets to TxA2 receptor agonists results in rapid desensitization of the biochemical and functional responses to interaction with its receptor in human platelets. The kinetics of these events are consistent with the hypothesis that this icosanoid functions in the regulation as well as amplification of platelet activation in vivo. PMID- 2521386 TI - Evidence for selenocysteine coordination to the active site nickel in the [NiFeSe]hydrogenases from Desulfovibrio baculatus. AB - Ni and Se x-ray absorption spectroscopic studies of the [NiFeSe]hydrogenases from Desulfovibrio baculatus are described. The Ni site geometry is pseudo-octahedral with a coordinating ligand composition of 3-4 (N,O) at 2.06 A, 1-2 (S,Cl) at 2.17 A, and 1 Se at 2.44 A. The Se coordination environment consists of 1 C at 2.0 A and a heavy scatterer M (M = Ni or Fe) at approximately 2.4 A. These results are interpreted in terms of a selenocysteine residue coordinated to the Ni site. The possible role of the Ni-Se site in the catalytic activation of H2 is discussed. PMID- 2521387 TI - Mercuric chloride induces autoantibodies against U3 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein in susceptible mice. AB - Autoantibodies to nucleolar components are a common serological feature of patients suffering from scleroderma, a collagen vascular autoimmune disease. While animal models, which spontaneously develop abundant anti-nucleolar antibodies, have not yet been described, high titers of such antibodies may be induced by treating susceptible strains of mice with mercuric chloride. We have identified the nucleolar autoantigen against which the HgCl2-induced IgG autoantibodies from mice of strain B10.S are directed. It is a protein with an apparent molecular mass of 36 kDa and a pI value of approximately 8.6, which is associated with the nucleolar small nuclear RNA U3, and by these criteria must be identical with a polypeptide called fibrillarin. It is striking that scleroderma patients spontaneously produce autoantibodies against the same U3 ribonucleoprotein (RNP). The HgCl2-induced murine and the scleroderma-specific human anti-U3 RNP autoantibodies were indistinguishable in their reactivities toward fibrillarin. They further resemble each other insofar as both recognize epitopes on the 36-kDa protein, which have been highly conserved throughout evolution. Our results provide a basis to investigate at the molecular level whether similar immunoregulatory dysfunctions may lead to the preferential anti U3 RNP autoantibody production in the animal model and in scleroderma patients. PMID- 2521388 TI - Common acute lymphoblastic leukemia antigen (CALLA) is active neutral endopeptidase 24.11 ("enkephalinase"): direct evidence by cDNA transfection analysis. AB - The common acute lymphoblastic leukemia antigen (CALLA) is a 749-amino acid type II integral membrane protein expressed by most acute lymphoblastic leukemias, certain other lymphoid malignancies with an immature phenotype, and normal lymphoid progenitors. A computer search against the most recent GenBank release (no. 56) indicates that human CALLA cDNA encodes a protein nearly identical to the rat and rabbit neutral endopeptidase 24.11 ("enkephalinase;" EC 3.4.24.11). This zinc metalloendopeptidase, which has been shown to inactivate a variety of peptide hormones including enkephalin, chemotactic peptide, substance P, neurotensin, oxytocin, bradykinin, and angiotensins I and II, had not been identified in lymphoid cells. To determine whether CALLA cDNA derived from human acute lymphoblastic leukemia cells (Nalm-6 cell line) encodes functional neutral endopeptidase activity, we generated CALLA+ stable transfectants in the CALLA- murine myeloma cell line J558 and analyzed them for enzymatic activity in a fluorometric assay based upon cleavage of the substrate glutaryl-Ala-Ala-Phe 4 methoxy-2-naphthylamide at the Ala-Phe bond. Total lysates as well as whole-cell suspensions of the Nalm-6 line and of the CALLA+ transfectants, but not of the CALLA- J558 cells, possessed neutral endopeptidase activity. This enzymatic activity was associated with the cellular membrane fraction and was abrogated by the specific neutral endopeptidase inhibitor phosphoramidon. The unequivocal identification of CALLA as a functional neutral endopeptidase provides insight into its potential role in both normal and malignant lymphoid function. PMID- 2521389 TI - Purification of Tetrahymena actin reveals some unusual properties. AB - Actin from Tetrahymena pyriformis has been purified by monitoring the presence of the actin gene product with an antiserum against a synthetic N-terminal peptide deduced from the nucleotide sequence of the Tetrahymena actin gene that we cloned previously. This highly purified Tetrahymena actin shares many essential properties with ubiquitous actin, including ion-dependent polymerization to microfilaments, binding with muscle heavy meromyosin to form arrowheads, and activation of the Mg2+-ATPase of muscle myosin subfragment 1. On the other hand, some properties of this purified Tetrahymena actin clearly differ from those of muscle actin: (i) Tetrahymena actin has 8 times less ability to activate the Mg2+ ATPase of muscle myosin subfragment 1 than muscle actin; (ii) Tetrahymena actin did not bind to phalloidin at all; (iii) Tetrahymena actin did not inhibit DNase I activity at all. In general, Tetrahymena actin has very unusual properties when compared to other actins described so far. This actin is expected to provide important clues for elucidating problems concerning the relationships between the structural and functional domains in an actin molecule. PMID- 2521390 TI - Isolation and visualization of large compact ribonucleoprotein particles of specific nuclear RNAs. AB - We have previously shown that nuclear transcripts of the multifunctional enzyme, carbamoyl-phosphate synthetase, aspartate transcarbamylase, dihydroorotase RNA can be released from nuclei of Syrian hamster cells as compact ribonucleoprotein (RNP) particles that sediment at the 200S region in a sucrose gradient. The 200S nuclear RNP particles contain U1, U2, and U6 small nuclear RNPs, which are known to be required for splicing of pre-mRNA, as integral components of the particles. In this study we demonstrate that nuclear transcripts of dihydrofolate reductase in Syrian hamster cells and of beta-actin in both Syrian hamster and human cells are also released from the respective nuclei as 200S particles--despite the difference in length of these RNAs. Electron microscopy of the 200S particles revealed discrete compact composite structures with a cross section of approximately 50 nm. Finding that two more nuclear RNAs from two different cell types and two different species are released as 200S RNP particles suggests a general mode for packaging of heterogeneous nuclear RNA in large compact RNP particles the size of which is independent of the RNA length. PMID- 2521392 TI - Phytohemagglutinin skin test responses to evaluate in vivo cellular immune function in rats. AB - It is often necessary to have a small animal model which permits the sequential evaluation of functional immune status over a period of time. We report here the in vivo, intradermal response to phytohemagglutinin which produces an area of induration that is histologically similar to a typical delayed cutaneous hypersensitivity response, and that provides fast, quantitative, reproducible results similar to those observed with standard but more laborious and variable in vitro tests of immune function. For small animal studies this has the advantage of permitting longitudinal evaluations over time without sacrificing the animal. Using phytohemagglutinin-microprotein (0.2 mg/0.1 ml), injected intradermally, a delayed cutaneous hypersensitivity-like response is induced which is maximal at 24 hr. When immune function was altered either by treatment with a chemical immunosuppressant (ethanol) or by hormonal manipulations (hypophysectomy and rat growth hormone), the delayed cutaneous hypersensitivity like response (area of induration) correlated closely with both macrophage migration inhibitory factor changes (r = 0.98; P less than 0.001) and mixed lymphocyte reaction changes (r = 0.99; P less than 0.05). These observations suggest that this technique correlates well with standard in vitro measures of immune response and may thus permit an in vivo estimation of immune reactivity. PMID- 2521391 TI - Nucleotide sequence of the gene for a fibronectin-binding protein from Staphylococcus aureus: use of this peptide sequence in the synthesis of biologically active peptides. AB - Binding of cells of Staphylococcus aureus to fibronectin, which may represent a mechanism of host tissue adherence, involves a fibronectin-receptor protein present on the bacterial surface. Cloning of a gene coding for a staphylococcal fibronectin-binding protein and construction of a fusion protein with fibronectin binding properties was previously reported from our laboratory. We have now sequenced the gene and deduced a primary sequence of the fibronectin-binding protein. The protein resembles other cell-wall-associated proteins on Gram positive bacteria in that it (i) appears to be anchored in the cell membrane via its C-terminal end, (ii) contains a proline-rich repeating unit outside the membrane anchor, and (iii) contains a long (36-amino acid) signal sequence at the N terminus. The fibronectin-binding activity has been localized to a domain composed of a 38-amino acid unit repeated completely three times and partially a fourth time; the identity between the three 38-amino acid sequences varies from 42 to 87%. Three synthetic peptides mimicking the structure of each 38-amino acid unit were constructed. All three peptides interacted with fibronectin, as indicated by their ability to inhibit binding of fibronectin to staphylococcal cells, whereas an unrelated 37-amino acid peptide showed no inhibitory activity. PMID- 2521393 TI - Chronic treatment with dimethyl sulfoxide protects against cardiovascular defects of copper deficiency. AB - Published reports indicate that Cu deficiency reduces antioxidant defenses and may result in tissue peroxidation. Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), a highly penetrant antiinflammatory agent and purported hydroxyl radical scavenger, was chronically fed to male, weanling Sprague-Dawley rats which were either supplemented with or deficient in Cu. DMSO was found to inhibit the cardiac hypertrophy, anemia and depression of heart Cu concentration which occurs with Cu deficiency. This suggests that the hydroxyl free radical may contribute to the cardiovascular defects caused by dietary Cu deficiency. PMID- 2521394 TI - Dopaminergic mediation of the diuretic and natriuretic action of centrally administered rat atrial natriuretic factor (99-126). AB - Intracerebroventricular administration of either rat atrial natriuretic factor (99-126) or dopamine to conscious male hydrated rats resulted in an increase in urinaryvolume and sodium excretion. This activity was prevented, in both cases, by nonselective dopamine antagonist haloperidol (2.5 or 1.25 mg/kg sc, 18 and 2 hr before intracerebroventricular administration of atrial natriuretic factor). Our findings suggest that atrial natriuretic factor exerts its centrally mediated effects on sodium and water metabolism, at least in part, via a dopaminergic mechanism. PMID- 2521395 TI - Rat atrial natriuretic factor (ANP-III) inhibits phosphate transport in brush border membrane from superficial and juxtamedullary cortex. AB - Previous studies have shown that administration of synthetic atrial natriuretic factor (ANF, 101-126) decreases sodium-dependent phosphate transport across renal brush border membrane vesicles (BBMV) in rats fed a normal or low phosphate diet. In the present study, infusion of rat ANF (atriopeptin III (ANP-III), 103-126 rat ANF) to rats fed a normal phosphate diet caused natriuretic and phosphaturic effects similar to those of ANF (101-126), but unlike ANF (101-126) did not increase the glomerular filtration rate. The effect of ANP-III infusion on sodium dependent transport of phosphate was also determined in BBM vesicles isolated from the superficial cortex (BBMV-SC) and juxtamedullary cortex (BBMV-JM). The results indicate that ANP-III decreases phosphate transport across BBMV-SC and BBMV-JM similarly (20-24%). However, it had no effect on sodium-dependent transport of proline in these vesicles. The infusion of ANP-III to rats fed a normal phosphate diet inhibits phosphate uptake both in BBMV-SC and BBMV-JM and causes phosphaturia without increments in glomerular filtration rate. PMID- 2521396 TI - Atheroablation with the Kensey catheter: a pathologic study. AB - The mode of action of the Kensey catheter, a new atheroablation device, was investigated. Fresh above-the-knee amputated legs were used for recanalization of the superficial femoral artery. The variables used were identical to those of clinical trials, including a rotational speed of 50,000 rpm and an injection rate of 40 mL/min. The debris produced by the catheter was studied cytologically, and the arterial segments were examined histologically. The particle size in the debris ranged from 1 to 2,000 microns. The softer plaques produced a fine fibrin dust background with long strips of intima ranging from 10 to 2,000 microns. Complicated calcified plaques produced larger background material (10-120 microns) but smaller strips of intima (50-800 microns). Dissections and perforations occurred. Some of the debris produced by the atheroablation process was used to embolize a canine heart and kidney. Small focal infarctions were found in the heart, and large and multiple infarcts were seen in the kidney. In clinical studies the debris appears to be tolerated in the lower extremities. Its safety in the kidney and heart are questioned. PMID- 2521397 TI - Venous stenoses in dialysis shunts: treatment with self-expanding metallic stents. AB - A flexible, self-expanding metallic endoprosthesis was employed for the treatment of venous outflow stenoses in four patients with a polytetrafluoroethylene shunt and two patients with a Brescia-Cimino shunt. The stenoses had led to shunt occlusion in five patients and to flow impairment in one. In the occluded shunts, thrombectomy and subsequent balloon angioplasty were performed in four patients, and percutaneous recanalization with angioplasty was performed in one. One shunt with decreasing flow was percutaneously dilated. Since the underlying stenoses recurred in four patients after 24 hours and did not respond sufficiently to angioplasty in two patients, up to four stents were placed in the venous segments. Thrombosis of the stents occurred in two patients after 24 hours and in one after 6 weeks and was successfully recanalized with thrombectomy in two. At 2 6 months follow-up, the stents and the shunts were patent in five patients. In three of these patients, intima hyperplasia, associated with narrowing of the stent lumen in two, was noted within 4 months after stent placement. PMID- 2521398 TI - Subclavian artery angioplasty and the origin of the vertebral artery. AB - Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of the subclavian artery was performed in 35 patients. In 50% of all dilations, the angioplasty balloon was inflated across the origin of the vertebral artery. No complications occurred. All subclavian steals were corrected. The relationship between the subclavian artery stenosis and the vertebral artery origin should be determined; if the vertebral artery originates from a healthy segment of the subclavian artery or from a segment with poststenotic dilatation, the angioplasty balloon can safely be distended across the vertebral artery origin. PMID- 2521400 TI - How the Armenian quake became a killer. PMID- 2521399 TI - Technical success, clinical success, and patency in laser angioplasty. PMID- 2521401 TI - Getting to the heart of genetic disease. PMID- 2521402 TI - [Laser endoscopy in gynecology]. AB - Today endoscopic laser is applied gastroenterology, urology and otorhinolaryngology, and the technique is being steadily developed. In the gynecological field the most commonly used technique is the CO2-laser, but the ND: YAG-laser is also being applied through the hysteroscope. At our department we have done 16 laparoscopic operations using the CO2 laser. The method is described and discussed. PMID- 2521403 TI - Factors in the liquid portion of stored blood inhibit the proliferative response in mixed lymphocyte cultures. AB - The transfusion of blood may suppress the immune responses of patients with renal transplants and with malignant disorders. To study the in vitro suppressive effects of banked blood, 4 units of blood were stored in CPDA-1 and ADSOL at 4 degrees C for 14 days. Lymphocytes and plasma or ADSOL supernatants were harvested on Days 0, 4, 7, 10, and 14. Subpopulations of lymphocytes were enumerated by flow cytometry. Recalcified and heat-treated plasma and supernatants from the units of blood were added to mixed lymphocyte cultures (MLC) composed of cells from normal individuals. No significant changes were noted in the proportions of T or B cells from blood stored under these conditions. A 60 +/- 3 percent inhibition in the proliferative response was observed when plasma from CPDA-1 units was added to MLCs (p less than 0.02). Supernatants from ADSOL units demonstrated a 29 +/- 4 percent inhibition (p less than 0.10) of the proliferative response, and this inhibition of response was observed on all 14 days of the study. When appropriate concentrations of dextrose or adenine were added to other MLCs, adenine (at the concentration found in ADSOL) caused a significant inhibition of the proliferative response. This inhibition was not, however, as marked as that observed with recalcified, heat treated plasma from CPDA-1 units. We conclude that adenine plus some additional factor(s) found in the liquid portion of stored blood inhibits the proliferative response of normal lymphocytes. It is possible that these factors contribute to the immune suppression observed in vivo in some patients who receive blood transfusions. PMID- 2521404 TI - Isolation and in vitro characterization of a novel immunosuppressive cyclosporine metabolite. AB - A novel metabolite (M-E) was identified by high-performance liquid chromatography in the serum of cyclosporine-treated renal transplant recipients during a second wave of immunosuppressive activity after disappearance of the initial wave due to the direct effect of CsA. M-E was identified in human serum and porcine bile both by HPLC and by a preparative thin-layer chromatography (TLC). It demonstrated homogeneity with characteristic retention times on C8 and C18 column HPLC systems using a variety of elution systems, and distinctive TLC mobility (Rf 0.35). Metabolite E (M-E) was documented to be a CsA metabolite by radioactive tracer studies, by crossreactivity with a polyclonal sheep antibody in radioimmunoassay, and by the presence of a characteristic mass spectrum. Further, in vitro immunosuppressive assays documented effects of M-E similar to those of CsA. The relative activity of M-E versus CsA was quantitated by potency ratios: for inhibition of normal human mixed lymphocyte culture reactions, the ratio was 0.79 +/- 0.23. Interindividual differences were observed in patient susceptibility to MLR inhibition not only by CsA, as previously reported by others, but also by M E. There was a lesser effect of M-E compared with CsA in inhibiting proliferation of, and IL-2 generation by, C3H murine splenocytes stimulated with concanavalin A: the potency ratios for both systems were about 0.5, possibly reflecting an interspecies variability in generation of or susceptibility to M-E. These studies suggest that heretofore unidentified metabolites--including, but not limited to, M-E--may play an important role in the immunosuppressive effect of CsA in man. PMID- 2521405 TI - The synergistic effect of total-lymphoid irradiation with extracted donor alloantigen in inducing transplantation unresponsiveness. AB - The synergistic effect of total lymphoid irradiation with KCl-extracted donor type antigen (H-Ag) was examined in the rat cardiac graft model. TLI therapy alone of 10, 16, and 20 Gy achieved by a 2 Gy daily treatment of WFu recipients produced modest prolongation of BUF heart survival to median survival times (MST) of 11, 26, and 30 days, respectively, in comparison with normal control (MST = 6). The TLI immunosuppressive effect was significantly potentiated with donor H Ag when combined with 16 (greater than 100 days) but not with 10 or 20 Gy TLI therapy. This effect was specific: 16 Gy TLI treated recipients of BUF hearts rejected their grafts in a MST of 27 days when treated with third-party BN H-Ag. The state of unresponsiveness was transferable to 6 Gy total-body-irradiated WFu recipients of BUF hearts with 60 x 10(6) purified T cells isolated from TLI/H-Ag treated rats (greater than 100) but not from normal controls (MST = 6). In vitro analysis of nontransplanted WFu rats 1-4 weeks after completion of 16 Gy TLI therapy alone demonstrated a nonspecifically reduced MLR proliferative response as well as the presence of potent nonspecific suppressor cells (NSC). By 3 or even 6 months post-TLI, W3/25- NSC displayed persistent suppressive activity and inhibited normal proliferative response to alloantigens. Limiting dilution assay revealed that the frequency of T cytotoxic cells (fTc) was severely decreased to 1:63111 at one day and to 1:16488 at one week postirradiation in comparison with normal control (1:2551). At 3 and 6 months the fTc of 1:2301 and 1:2040, respectively, approximated normal levels. These combined in vivo and in vitro results demonstrate that 16 Gy TLI therapy induces an unresponsiveness mediated by NSC and that the administration of donor type H-Ag facilitates the generation of potent regulatory T cells capable of inducing prolonged heart allograft survival. PMID- 2521406 TI - Afferent and efferent pathways in T cell responses to MHC class I+, II hepatocytes. AB - We have previously reported that purified hepatocytes stimulate significant in vitro allospecific cytotoxicity when cocultured with naive responder splenocytes in the mixed lymphocyte hepatocyte culture (MLHC). In this report we examined the expression of MHC antigens on the surface of hepatocytes, the phenotypic lymphocyte subset(s) that respond(s) to allogeneic hepatocytes, and the phenotype of allospecific cytolytic effectors generated in MLHC. Hepatocytes expressed MHC class I but not MHC class II antigens by immunofluorescent microscopy and fluorescence activated cell sorting. The lack of MHC class II on the surface of hepatocytes was also indirectly supported by the inability of hepatocytes to stimulate proliferation of a class II-directed allospecific helper T cell clone. The generation of allospecific cytotoxicity in MLHC required the participation of L3T4+, Ly2- T cells and L3T4-, Ly2+ T cells in the naive responder splenocyte population since depletion of these subsets with mAb and complement abrogated the development of allo-CTLs. Furthermore, adherent accessory cells in the naive responder splenocyte population appeared to play a role in the generation of allospecific cytotoxicity in MLHC since depletion of this population by plastic adherence and passage through a Sephadex G10 column resulted in significantly reduced allospecific cytotoxicity. Depletion of day 5 allosensitized cells of Ly2+ but not L3T4+ T cells by mAb and complement eliminated allospecific cytotoxicity--indicating that cytolytic effectors generated in MLHC appear to be L3T4-, Ly2+ T cells. PMID- 2521407 TI - Prolongation of heterotopic heart allograft survival by local delivery of continuous low-dose cyclosporine therapy. AB - The effectiveness of local versus systemic low-dose CsA (2 mg/kg/day) therapy delivered by osmotic pump for a 14-day continuous infusion was examined in the rat model. Systemic subtherapeutic CsA treatment of WFu recipients either by oral gavage or intravenously using an osmotic pump resulted in quick rejection of BUF heart allografts within a median survival time (MST) of 8 days in comparison with untreated controls (MST = 7 days). In contrast, direct local subtherapeutic CsA delivery to BUF heart allografts produced significantly (P less than 0.01) prolonged heart allograft survivals up to MST of 40 days. Splenic T cells, isolated on days 10 to 12 from locally immunosuppressed WFu recipients, revealed a nonspecifically reduced proliferative response toward alloantigens. Coculture experiments demonstrate that these T cells have the capacity to inhibit normal T cell proliferative responses in a nonspecific fashion either by their suppressor function or more likely by carrying CsA to the culture plate. In contrast, T cells isolated from WFu recipients three weeks after transplantation and tested in vitro demonstrated the presence in alloantigen specific T suppressor cells that coincided with a decreased frequency of alloantigen-specific T cytotoxic cells and may explain the extended heart allograft survival beyond the time of CsA delivery. CsA therapy delivered directly to the graft resulted in high CsA levels within the heart graft (1108 ng/0.1 g) but subtherapeutic levels in other tissues. These results demonstrate that local drug delivery is effective in inhibiting the rejection process within the graft itself, as manifested by prolonged heart allograft survival. Further, subtherapeutic CsA therapy facilitates development of Ts cells that may be responsible for the survival of heart allografts beyond the CsA delivery time. PMID- 2521408 TI - Selective sparing of suppressor cells generated in mixed lymphocyte response by an anti-interleukin-2 receptor antibody. AB - Recent investigations have shown that anti-IL-2 receptor antibodies can prolong cardiac allograft survival in animal models and can be used effectively as primary immunosuppressive therapy in human renal transplantation. While previous studies have established that helper and cytotoxic T cells require IL-2 for proliferation, the role of this lymphokine in suppressor cell development is uncertain. We therefore studied the effects of SA36.6G (a monoclonal antibody directed at the 55 kD chain of the high-affinity IL-2 receptor) on events occurring in the mixed lymphocyte reaction. As expected, when added at culture initiation, SA36.6G inhibited both the proliferative response to allogeneic stimulation, and the generation of cytotoxic T cells. These effects were not the result of altered growth kinetics. In contrast, the generation of suppressor cells with a polymorphic pattern of specificity was not blocked by SA36.6G. Cultures containing SA36.6G had decreased numbers of activated lymphoblasts, but among this activated cell population the proportion of 2H4+ cells was doubled (53 +/- 13% vs. 27 +/- 9%). SA36.6G also blocked the appearance of IL-2 receptors on activated cells as determined by flow cytometry. This relative sparing of suppressor cells by an anti-IL-2 receptor antibody suggests that these cells may either exhibit IL-2 independent proliferation, or utilize an IL-2 receptor not recognized by SA36.6G. PMID- 2521409 TI - Randomized prospective trial of OKT3 for early prophylaxis of rejection after liver transplantation. AB - A group of 52 liver transplant patients was prospectively randomized to receive prophylactic immunosuppressive therapy consisting of either Orthoclone OKT3 for 14 days, azathioprine, and steroids (25 patients); or cyclosporine, azathioprine, and steroids (27 patients). The groups were similarly matched for age, diagnosis, and Child's classification. The patients were studied to determine the effect of these two regimens on the incidence of rejection, infection, renal dysfunction, and mortality. Seven rejection episodes, as determined by clinical and histological criteria, occurred in seven of 25 patients (28%) receiving OKT3 compared with 18 episodes in 27 patients (67%) receiving cyclosporine during the first 14 days after transplantation (P less than 0.02). In 20% of the OKT3 patients, CD3+ levels of greater than 10% developed during therapy, and 16% of the patients developed anti-OKT3 antibodies during OKT3 treatment. Five patients were retreated with OKT3 for steroid-resistant acute rejection episodes; all had resolution of the rejection episode. Infectious complications were similar in each group. Renal function, as measured by serum creatinine, was significantly better with OKT3 than with cyclosporine (P less than 0.003) at 14 days. We conclude that prophylactic OKT3 is effective in reducing the number of early rejection episodes after liver transplantation; after 14 days the incidence of rejection is similar; reuse of OKT3 has been successful in liver transplant patients; infectious complications are similar between OKT3 and cyclosporine; and OKT3 preserves renal function better than cyclosporine and is thus indicated in patients with compromised preoperative renal function. PMID- 2521410 TI - Successful retreatment of allograft rejection with OKT3. AB - OKT3 is a murine monoclonal antibody to the CD3 antigen of human T lymphocytes. The production of human antimurine antibodies after treatment with OKT3 has been perceived as a major limitation to its extended use and reuse. Treatment of 142 patients with 168 courses of OKT3 resulted in the development of antimouse antibody in 28% of the patients. Twenty-six patients (16 kidney, 6 liver, 3 heart, 1 pancreas) have been retreated with 27 courses of OKT3. Eighteen patients had no antimurine antibodies present, and the rejection reversal rate was 83% (15/18). Six patients had a low-titer antimurine antibody present, and rejection reversal occurred in 5 (83%). Rejection was not reversed in 2 patients with a high-titer antibody. Development of antimurine antibody was more frequent in renal transplant recipients (33%) than in hepatic (12%) or cardiac transplant recipients (18%). We believe that this reflects the fact that concomitant immunosuppressive therapy is more likely to be reduced during OKT3 therapy in renal transplant recipients than in hepatic or cardiac transplant recipients. Retreatment of patients with no anti-OKT3 antibody resulted in depletion of CD3+ cells from the peripheral blood, but it took longer than in patients being treated with OKT3 for the first time. Similarly, serum OKT3 levels rose more slowly in retreated patients compared to first treatment. In retreating patients with a low-titer antimurine antibody, it often was necessary to increase the dose of OKT3 in order to achieve adequate serum OKT3 levels and to deplete CD3+ cells. De novo antimurine antibody developed in 4 of the 18 (22%) antibody-negative patients who were retreated. In conclusion, retreatment with OKT3 should not be considered unless the antibody status of the patient is known. Development of low titer antibodies does not preclude successful retreatment with OKT3; however, alternate antirejection therapy should be used in patients with high-titer antimurine responses. PMID- 2521411 TI - Variation in patient response associated with different preparations of murine monoclonal antibody therapy. AB - The sera of 37 renal and 12 liver allograft recipients treated with OKT3 (42), Leu2a (7), or both (2) monoclonal antibodies were serially analyzed by an enzyme linked immunosorbent assay to determine the humoral response (IgG) to mAb. Anti mAb IgG to the treatment mAb was detected in the serum of 23 (76%) renal and 6 (50%) liver OKT3 recipients, and all 7 Leu2a renal recipients, usually within 14 days of mAb completion, but never during the first week of Rx. Each of the 7 Leu2a recipients developed reactivity not only to Leu2a isotype (IgG1), but also to OKT3 isotype (IgG2a). In contrast, only 1 of the 42 renal and liver allograft recipients treated with OKT3 developed reactivity to the Leu2a isotype. Blocking studies indicated that the specificity of the response to the treatment mAb was directed at the idiotype--and, in some patients, to the constant domain (isotype) of the mAb administered. The antibody response to an alternate isotype (IgG2a) observed in Leu2a (IgG1)-treated patients most likely resulted from irrelevant immunoglobulin (IgG2a) in the Leu2a preparation. This reactivity appeared to be specific for the IgG2a subclass. Clinicians administering mAb therapy should be aware that various mAb preparations may contain immunoglobulin isotypes unrelated to the therapeutic mAb. Crossimmunization to the irrelevant immunoglobulins may occur, precluding subsequent use of other mAbs sharing similar isotype. PMID- 2521412 TI - [Huntington chorea]. PMID- 2521413 TI - Effect of atrial natriuretic peptide on catecholamine release from human pheochromocytoma. AB - The effect of synthetic alpha human atrial natriuretic peptide on catecholamine release from human pheochromocytomas was studied both in vivo and in vitro. Iv infusion of atrial natriuretic peptide at a rate of 0.1 microgram.kg-1.min-1 for 60 min into two normotensive patients with pheochromocytoma caused a small decrease in the mean blood pressure, increase in the heart rate, and marked increase in the plasma level of norepinephrine (2.08 to 6.83 nmol/l, and 1.15 to 2.83 nmol/l, respectively) compared with 0.60 +/- 0.10 to 1.19 +/- 0.20 nmol/l in normal subjects. Treatment with atrial natriuretic peptide also increased the plasma epinephrine level from 0.34 to 1.27 nmol/l, and from 0.67 to 0.79 nmol/l in the patients with pheochromocytoma, but not in the normal subjects (0.05 +/- 0.01 to 0.05 +/- 0.01 nmol/l). After removal of the tumour, the responses of the plasma norepinephrine and epinephrine to atrial natriuretic peptide infusion were normalized. There was no significant effect of 10(-8) to 10(-5) mol/l atrial natriuretic peptide on the basal release of catecholamines from isolated superfused pheochromocytoma tissue. Atrial natriuretic peptide (10(-7) mol/l) did not affect the increase in catecholamine release induced by glucagon (10(-5) mol/l). These results suggest that the exaggerated responses of plasma catecholamines to atrial natriuretic peptide in patients with pheochromocytoma may be due to a washout effect resulting from change in blood flow in the vessels feeding the tumour rather than increased sympathetic nerve activity induced by hypotension and hypovolemia. The results also suggest that atrial natriuretic peptide dose not have any direct action on pheochromocytoma tissue causing catecholamine release. PMID- 2521414 TI - A technique for pulmonary artery catheterization in patients with right ventricular enlargement. PMID- 2521415 TI - The electrophysiologic effects of enoximone in patients with preexisting ventricular tachyarrhythmias. AB - Electrophysiologic and hemodynamic effects of intravenous enoximone were studied in 15 male patients, mean age 62.2 years, with New York Heart Association classes II to IV congestive heart failure (coronary artery disease in 10 and idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy in five patients; mean ejection fraction, 0.19). All patients had spontaneous ventricular tachyarrhythmias; eight had sustained ventricular tachycardia (VT), one had ventricular fibrillation, and six had nonsustained VT. Hemodynamic and electrophysiologic parameters including VT induction were determined before and during an intravenous infusion of enoximone. The cardiac index increased (2.49 +/- 0.89 to 2.96 +/- 0.78), and the pulmonary capillary wedge pressure decreased (22.4 +/- 13.2 to 10.0 +/- 9.0) after enoximone per predefined protocol endpoints. There was a significant decrease in spontaneous sinus cycle length, corrected sinus nodal recovery time, AH interval during atrial pacing, shortest cycle length at which 1:1 atrioventricular nodal conduction occurred, and refractory periods of the atrium, ventricle, and atrioventricular node. Enoximone did not alter the cycle length of induced VT, and there was no consistent change in the number of extrastimuli required for VT induction. A baseline 24-hour ECG recording was obtained on 14 patients (while receiving a long-term antiarrhythmic drug regimen, if needed) and repeated after 1 week and 1 month of oral enoximone therapy. There was no significant increase in the number of premature ventricular complexes per hour or VT episodes per 24 hours after 1 week or 1 month of therapy with enoximone. However, if four patients who received amiodarone and may not yet have reached steady state were excluded from analysis, there was a significant increase in the frequency of premature ventricular complexes per hour 1 month after initiation of enoximone. We conclude that intravenous enoximone reduces pulmonary capillary wedge pressure and increases cardiac output in most patients. Intravenous enoximone in doses sufficient to have hemodynamic effects shortens atrial, ventricular, and atrioventricular nodal refractoriness and decreases AV nodal conduction time but has no consistent effect on VT induction or VT cycle length. The frequency of spontaneous ventricular ectopy may increase in some patients after oral enoximone, but its clinical significance is undefined. Enoximone may be administered cautiously to patients with congestive heart failure and preexisting ventricular tachyarrhythmias. PMID- 2521416 TI - Symptomatic cardiac dysfunction in children with human immunodeficiency virus infection. AB - Eight children with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection had symptomatic cardiac dysfunction. The median age was 1.4 years (range 0.2 to 7.9 years). All had hepatosplenomegaly, fever, pneumonia with tachypnea, and tachycardia ascribed to infection and anemia. An S3 gallop was present in six of eight. All had normal creatine phosphokinase values. Chest x-rays did not aid in the diagnosis of cardiac dysfunction. ECG showed flattened T waves in five of eight with left ventricular hypertrophy, right ventricular hypertrophy, or both in seven of eight. Results of echocardiography showed decreased left ventricular function in all eight, despite anemia, with dilated left ventricular myopathy in six, concentric left ventricular wall thickening in two of eight, an enlarged right ventricle in two, and pericardial fluid in three. Medical therapy improved cardiac function in all. All patients subsequently died of noncardiac causes. Results of autopsies on four of eight patients showed focal myocarditis in two (with cytomegalovirus inclusions in one) and dilated cardiomyopathy in two others. We conclude: (1) Preexistent hepatosplenomegaly, fever, infection, and anemia result in physical findings that mimic findings of heart failure, thereby masking the occurrence of cardiac dysfunction; (2) an S3 gallop may indicate the presence of impaired heart function when other clinical signs are masked; (3) confirmation of cardiac compromise may be accomplished by noninvasive evaluation with echocardiography and (4) medical therapy can improve cardiac dysfunction in HIV-infected children. PMID- 2521417 TI - Regression of left ventricular mass is accompanied by improvement in rapid left ventricular filling following antihypertensive therapy with metoprolol. AB - Left ventricular hypertrophy is associated with abnormal left ventricular diastolic filling in patients with hypertension. To assess the effects of antihypertensive therapy on the heart in nine previously untreated patients with echocardiographically-detected left ventricular hypertrophy, left ventricular mass and rapid left ventricular filling rate were compared before and after 6 months of treatment with metoprolol monotherapy. Metoprolol was given in doses of 100 to 400 mg/day (average dose, 167 mg/day in two divided doses) and significantly reduced both casual, office blood pressure (150/101 to 130/86 mm Hg, p less than 0.01) and 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure (139/91 to 126/79 mm Hg, p less than 0.05 for systolic, p less than 0.01 for diastolic). Following treatment with metoprolol, left ventricular mass index decreased from 135 +/- 20 to 120 +/- 13 gm/m2 (p less than 0.05), while rapid left ventricular filling rate increased from 1.89 +/- 0.24 to 2.09 +/- 0.27 end-diastolic volumes/sec (p less than 0.01). The reduction in left ventricular mass index was secondary to decreased posterior and septal wall thicknesses (13% and 11%, respectively, p less than 0.05 for both), as there were no changes in the left ventricular internal dimensions. Neither resting nor exercise left ventricular ejection fraction changed on metoprolol therapy compared to the baseline values. These data demonstrate that regression of left ventricular hypertrophy in never previously-treated hypertensive patients is accompanied by improved diastolic performance following beta-adrenergic blocker monotherapy. PMID- 2521418 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide and acute myocardial infarction. PMID- 2521420 TI - Interdigestive gastroduodenal motility in duodenal ulcer: role of gastric acid hypersecretion. AB - The interdigestive gastroduodenal motility was studied by means of a multilumen manometric probe in eight patients with active duodenal ulcer (group DU1) and in seven patients with hypersecretory gastroduodenitis (group GD). Both groups were selected on the basis of the presence of gastric acid hypersecretion. A group of five patients with non-active duodenal ulcer (group DU2) and a group of eight healthy subjects (group C) also were examined. Both of the latter groups were selected on the basis of the presence of normal gastric secretion. After a basal recording period of 200-300 min, in hypersecretory groups DU1 and GD, ranitidine was administered to decrease acid secretion; in normosecretory groups C and D2, impromidine was infused at two scalar doses to increase acid secretion. The basal recording showed in groups DU1 and GD a longer than normal time interval between consecutive activity fronts (AF) of the migrating motor complex (MMC cycle) and a shorter than normal percent of time occupied by AFs. In normal subjects and in DU2, the administration of the lowest dose of impromidine induced a motor pattern similar to that of the basal period of groups DU and GD, whereas the highest dose disrupted the MMC pattern that was replaced by an irregular motor activity. The results of this study indicate that duodenal ulcer with acid hypersecretion shows a marked inhibition of the MMC cycle that is not due to the ulcer itself, but to the increased acid secretion. In fact, the same motor pattern is observed in other hypersecretory states, both spontaneous and drug-induced, whereas DU with normal secretion showed a near normal motility. In active duodenal ulcer, the decreased incidence and duration of activity fronts may play a role in the pathogenesis of peptide ulcer, as it may impair the cyclic duodenal acid clearing, allowing a longer than normal contact of HCl with the duodenal mucosa. PMID- 2521419 TI - The clinical efficacy and scintigraphic evaluation of post-coronary bypass patients undergoing percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty for recurrent angina pectoris. AB - The efficacy of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty in improving recurrent anginal symptoms and myocardial perfusion after coronary artery bypass graft surgery was assessed prospectively in 55 patients, of whom 50 had an initial angiographic and clinical success. Although 80% of those successfully dilated were initially free of angina at 23 +/- 11 months of follow-up, one half of these patients had recurrent angina. Although only 48% of the patient cohort had complete relief of angina, 94% had less angina than before dilatation and 86% were able to decrease antianginal medications. Fifteen patients with persistent or recurrent angina had from one to five repeat dilatations. After angioplasty, lung thallium uptake, the extent of abnormal scan segments, and the magnitude of redistribution in dilated lesions were significantly reduced (n = 24 patients). Redistribution defects were seen in 38% of patients on postangioplasty scans. All were associated with subsequent angina. Of various clinical, angiographic, exercise, and thallium-201 scan variables, only the presence of delayed redistribution was an independent predictor of recurrent angina. Restenosis was the most common underlying cause for this exercise-induced perfusion defect. Thus percutaneous coronary angioplasty performed as primary therapy for recurrent angina after bypass surgery is moderately successful in long-term follow-up for the amelioration of symptoms and enhancement of regional myocardial perfusion. PMID- 2521421 TI - Pilot study of recombinant human alpha-interferon for chronic non-A, non-B hepatitis. AB - Recombinant human alpha-interferon was administered to 15 patients with chronic non-A, non-B hepatitis as a part of a pilot study. Patients received injections of 2 million units per day of interferon three times weekly for 16 wk. The treatment schedule was completed in all but one, whose serum aminotransferase levels were continuously elevated during treatment. In seven of the 15 patients, elevated serum aminotransferase levels decreased rapidly during therapy and eventually fell into the normal or nearly normal range. However, once the therapy was stopped, a prompt return of aminotransferase levels to pretreatment values usually was observed. After 3 months of follow-up, aminotransferase activities remained normal in only two patients in whom liver histology showed marked improvement in intralobular degeneration and focal necrosis of hepatocytes. Anti interferon antibody was detected in four patients at the end of therapy, and decreased 2',5'-oligoadenylate synthetase activity occurred in two patients and in another with relapsed aminotransferase level. Whether alpha-interferon therapy could control the disease activity in patients with chronic non-A, non-B hepatitis deserves further evaluation in a prospective controlled trial. PMID- 2521422 TI - Association between aluminum accumulation and cardiac hypertrophy in hemodialyzed patients. AB - In order to investigate the possible role of aluminum accumulation on the myocardium, 50 stable asymptomatic hemodialysis patients were studied. Patient cardiac status was assessed by echocardiography. A deferroxamine (DFO) test, together with a bone biopsy, was performed to determine the magnitude of AI accumulation. Thus, an increase in serum AI after DFO (delta AI DFO) and stainable cortical bone aluminum (SCBA) were taken as parameters of AI load. Fourteen of 50 patients had no SCBA. They differed from the 36 patients with SCBA in that they had lower left ventricular mass (LVM) (P less than 0.001), increased velocity of circumferential fiber shortening (Vcf) (P less than 0.001), and higher mitral E-F slope (P less than 0.01). In the overall population there was a mild increment in serum AI and in delta AI DFO. The duration of dialysis treatment was correlated with SCBA and delta AI DFO (P less than 0.001). A correlation was observed between LVM and delta AI DFO (P less than 0.001) and between LVM and SCBA (P less than 0.001). Multivariate correlations analysis indicated that these relationships were independent of the duration of dialysis treatment. The present data suggest that, in hemodialysis patients aluminum accumulation may be associated with increased LVM. PMID- 2521423 TI - Plasma atrial natriuretic peptide levels during the rat estrous cycle, pregnancy, and puerperium. AB - The rat has been used as a model for studying the changes that occur in maternal blood volume and renal function during pregnancy. The role, if any, that atrial natriuretic peptide plays in regulating these changes is unknown, and little information is available on atrial natriuretic peptide levels at different stages of gestation in the rat. In this study we measured plasma atrial natriuretic peptide levels by radioimmunoassay in the rat at each stage of the estrous cycle, during the last 2 weeks of pregnancy, and in the early postpartum period. Atrial natriuretic peptide levels did not change during the estrous cycle. Atrial natriuretic peptide levels were low on days 10 to 15 of gestation but rose to become significantly higher than nonpregnant levels on days 16 to 18. On day 21 shortly before delivery, levels were similar to nonpregnant values. Postpartum, atrial natriuretic peptide levels rose immediately and remained elevated for the next 48 hours. These findings suggest that factors other than blood volume may mediate plasma atrial natriuretic peptide levels during pregnancy and the postpartum period. PMID- 2521424 TI - Newborn lymphocyte subpopulations: the influence of labor. AB - Cord blood mononuclear cell subsets were enumerated in 31 neonates delivered after maternal labor, in 25 neonates delivered by cesarean section without preceding labor, and in 60 healthy adults. In neonates born with and without preceding labor percentages of CD3 cells were lower than those in adults (63% and 60% as opposed to 83% in adults). However, the absolute numbers of CD3 cells were significantly greater in newborn infants delivered without preceding labor (3.287 +/- 1.451 cells per microliter) than in both neonates born after labor (2.660 +/- 800 cells per microliter) and in adults (2.189 +/- 807 cells per microliter). The increase in CD3 cells in infants delivered without preceding labor reflects increased numbers of CD4-positive cells. This increase in the absolute number of T lymphocytes and CD4 (helper) lymphocytes was significant (p less than 0.02). These data indicate that labor-related stress significantly decreases the total number of neonatal T lymphocytes and the CD4 (helper) T-cell subpopulation in cord blood. PMID- 2521425 TI - Enhanced thrombin generation in normal and hypertensive pregnancy. AB - We investigated the plasma levels of thrombin-antithrombin III complexes in women with uncomplicated pregnancy, patients with preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, and nonpregnant control subjects. In addition, we measured the coagulation inhibitors antithrombin III, protein C, and protein S. In normal pregnancy we observed a progressive increase in plasma thrombin-antithrombin III levels, and a decrease in protein S levels. In preeclampsia we observed increased thrombin-antithrombin III levels, reduced antithrombin III and protein C levels, and no further reduction of protein S compared with normal pregnancy. These new methods provide solid evidence for a prethrombotic state in normal pregnancy, especially in preeclampsia. PMID- 2521426 TI - Effect of ANP on sustained aldosterone secretion stimulated by angiotensin II. AB - The sustained aldosterone secretory response to angiotensin II (ANG II) depends on receptor-mediated increases in membrane diglyceride (DG) and an increase in calcium influx rate. These signals serve to activate membrane-associated protein kinase C (PKC) and result in enhanced phosphorylation of a unique set of proteins. These events can be mimicked by the addition of a phorbol ester, 12-O tetra decanoyl phorbol 13-acetate (TPA), and a calcium ionophore, A23187, that bypass the initial receptor-associated events. We studied the inhibitory action of atrial natriuretic peptide (4-28 hANP) on the sustained secretory response to ANG II in isolated bovine adrenal glomerulosa cells. Although 10 nM ANP inhibited aldosterone secretion, it did not significantly alter the ANG II-elicited rise in 45Ca2+ influx rate [control (CON): 0.44 +/- 0.06; ANG II: 1.11 +/- 0.12 (P less than 0.001); ANG II + ANP: 1.18 +/- 0.14], the steady-state level of aequorin luminescence [intracellular [Ca2+] ([Ca2+]i)], or the rise in cellular DG content [CON: 0.132 +/- 0.01; ANG II: 0.194 +/- 0.01 (P less than 0.005); ANG II + ANP: 0.202 +/- 0.01 nmol/10(6) cells]. IN addition, ANP was able to inhibit aldosterone secretion stimulated by the combined addition of A23187 + TPA. When protein phosphorylation in the ANP-inhibited cells was evaluated, ANG II-induced protein phosphorylation events were preserved. In contrast to the effect of ANP, the calcium channel blocker nitrendipine abolished the ANG II-induced rise in 45Ca2+ influx rate, reduced the steady-state level of [Ca2+]i, and returned the phosphoproteins to their control states.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521427 TI - Basis for myocardial mechanical defects associated with non-insulin-dependent diabetes. AB - Hearts isolated from 12-mo non-insulin-dependent diabetic rats exhibited reduced rates of contractility and relaxation. Associated with the abnormality in contractility was a redistribution in myosin isozyme content to the least active V3 form. Defects in myocardial relaxation also occurred concomitantly with impaired handling of calcium. Total tissue calcium content rose 35% in the diabetic hearts. At the same time, the activity of the pump responsible for maintaining normal cytoplasmic calcium levels was reduced. At a free calcium concentration of 2.0 microM, the rates of sarcoplasmic reticular calcium uptake and adenosinetriphosphatase activity of the diabetic hearts were decreased approximately 30%. Diastolic ventricular stiffness increased dramatically. The net result of these abnormalities in calcium metabolism is a significant impairment in mechanical performance of the diabetic heart. PMID- 2521428 TI - Altered hepatic fatty acid metabolism in endotoxicosis: effect of L-carnitine on survival. AB - The activities of palmitoyl-coenzyme A (CoA) synthetase, carnitine acetyltransferase (CAT), and carnitine palmitoyltransferase (CPT) and the levels of ketone bodies, reduced coenzyme A (CoASH), carnitine, and their esters, which are involved in fatty acid metabolism, in rat liver and plasma were measured after the administration of Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS). We also studied the effect of L-carnitine treatment before LPS administration on survival and on hepatic fatty acid metabolism. The activities of CAT and CPT and the concentrations of ketone bodies, CoA, and carnitine derivatives (except for malonyl-CoA) declined in the liver after LPS administration. The activity of palmitoyl-CoA synthetase was changed little after LPS administration, and the level of hepatic malonyl-CoA increased significantly, suggesting that LPS causes activated fatty acids to undergo esterification and lipogenesis rather than oxidation. Treatment of rats with L-carnitine before LPS greatly increased the survival rate, but did not affect enzymes that metabolize fatty acids, CoA, or carnitine derivatives in the liver. Further studies are necessary to elucidate the mechanism of the effect of carnitine on post-LPS survival. PMID- 2521429 TI - Effects of thyroid status on atrial natriuretic peptide release from isolated rat atria. AB - The effect of thyroid hormone on circulating levels of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) was studied in experimental hyperthyroid and hypothyroid rats. Plasma ANP was 102 +/- 5 pg/ml in euthyroid rats, 82 +/- 4 pg/ml in hypothyroid rats, and 138 +/- 11 pg/ml in hyperthyroid rats. We have also measured immunoreactive ANP in the atria of euthyroid, hypothyroid, and hyperthyroid rats. ANP content and concentration in the atria were lower (546 +/- 32 pg/mg tissue) in hyperthyroid rats than in hypothyroid rats (802 +/- 74 pg/mg tissue). Right atrium from euthyroid, hypothyroid, and hyperthyroid rats was superfused with a modified Langendorff preparation. Spontaneous release of ANP was significantly higher from the hyperthyroid rats (20 +/- 2 pg.min-1.mg-1) than from the hypothyroid rats (5.6 +/- 0.5 pg.min-1.mg-1). ANP release from the euthyroid rats was 9.3 +/- 1.2 pg.min-1.mg-1. These results indicate hyperthyroidism causes an increase in ANP secretion and a decreased release occurs during hypothyroidism. PMID- 2521430 TI - ANF inhibits NaCl and fluid absorption in cortical collecting duct of rat kidney. AB - Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) is a peptide hormone that causes a large increase in urinary sodium chloride and water excretion when its plasma concentration rises above basal levels. As yet, there is no consensus regarding the chief site of action of ANF in the kidney. We microdissected and perfused rat cortical collecting ducts in vitro to determine whether ANF-(1-28) can directly inhibit net sodium and fluid absorption. ANF decreased both net sodium absorption and vasopressin-stimulated net fluid absorption by 50-90% when added to the peritubular bath solution. Approximately 50% inhibition of net fluid absorption occurred at 0.1 nM ANF, a level equivalent to plasma concentrations in volume expanded rats. The action of ANF was mimicked by the addition of exogenous guanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate. If ANF has a similar action on the cortical collecting duct in vivo, it could account for a substantial part of the ANF mediated increase in urinary sodium and water excretion. PMID- 2521432 TI - Atrial peptide potentiates renal responses to volume expansion in conscious dogs. AB - Experiments were performed to compare the renal responses to atrial peptide infusion in conscious dogs with normal and expanded extracellular fluid volumes to test the hypothesis that the renal responses to atrial peptide infusions are dependent on the prevailing fluid and electrolyte status in the animal. Atrial peptide-(99-126) was infused intravenously in doses of either 0, 5, 25, or 100 ng.kg-1.min-1 in conscious dogs prepared with chronic catheters in the femoral artery and vein and the urinary bladder. In dogs with normal extracellular fluid volume, atrial peptide caused small increases in urinary sodium excretion with the high physiological (25 ng.kg-1.min-1) and pharmacological (100 ng.kg-1.min-1) doses. Urine volume and potassium excretion were increased only at the highest pharmacological dose. In contrast, atrial peptide infusion in dogs that were volume expanded by infusion of hypertonic saline showed dramatic, dose-dependent increases in sodium excretion and urine flow with all doses tested. The low, physiological dose of atrial peptide (5 ng.kg-1.min-1) increased sodium excretion and urine flow rate in volume-expanded dogs more than the pharmacological dose in normal dogs (n = 4). These results demonstrate that the renal responses to atrial peptide infusion are potentiated in dogs that are volume expanded and suggest that under conditions where atrial peptide secretion would be enhanced, small changes in plasma atrial peptide concentration can have significant effects on renal function. PMID- 2521431 TI - Effects of atrial natriuretic factor on isolated arteries and perfused organs of trout. AB - Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) increases blood pressure when injected into conscious trout [Duff and Olson, Am. J. Physiol. 251 (Regulatory Integrative Comp. Physiol. 20): R639-R642, 1986]. The effects and mechanisms of action of ANF on trout vessels in vitro were examined in the present study using isolated celiacomesenteric arterial rings, perfused gill arches, and a two-artery perfused trunk preparation. In all experiments, ANF alone either relaxed trout vessels or had no effect. ANF inhibited contractions of arterial rings produced by a variety of agonists in part through inhibition of intracellular calcium release. In perfused gills, ANF attenuated epinephrine (EPI) alpha-mediated vasoconstriction but had no effect on beta-stimulated increases in water permeability. ANF only slightly lowered an EPI-induced increase in resistance in either pathway of the perfused trunk. These results indicate that the vascular effects and mechanism of action of ANF are similar in fish and mammals and that the pressor response to ANF injection in vivo is mediated through central or secondary effects. PMID- 2521434 TI - Calculating the potency of mivacurium. PMID- 2521433 TI - Proximal tubule response in aldosterone escape. AB - The response of the proximal tubule to chronic aldosterone administration (15 micrograms.kg-1.day-1) was evaluated in eight conscious female mongrel dogs. Temporal profiles between hemodynamic and hormonal changes and the fractional excretions of sodium and lithium were established. Aldosterone infusion resulted in a significant decrease in urinary sodium excretion from 9.2 +/- 1.3 to 5.8 +/- 0.9 meq/h after 1 day, returning to normal by the 5th day. These changes in urinary sodium excretion were associated with significant elevations of the mean arterial pressure (MAP) from 105 +/- 5 to 111 +/- 6 mmHg and plasma atrial natriuretic factor concentrations (ANF) from 30 +/- 2 to 57 +/- 7 pg/ml beginning the 1st day of infusion. Plasma renin activity (PRA), on the other hand, was depressed by aldosterone, falling below the level of detectability. The fractional excretion of lithium increased significantly by day 2 of aldosterone infusion (from 29 +/- 3 to 44 +/- 6%), reflecting the proximal tubular response to the above changes. We conclude that the proximal tubule responds to increases in MAP and ANF and decreases in PRA during aldosterone infusion by decreasing sodium reabsorption. Subsequent nephron segments must also respond to the volume expansion produced by aldosterone, since the sustained proximal tubule natriuretic response is insufficient to explain all of escape. PMID- 2521435 TI - Induction of anesthesia with small doses of sufentanil or fentanyl: dose versus EEG response, speed of onset, and thiopental requirement. AB - The purpose of this study was to examine the dose versus EEG response relationship, the speed of onset, and the thiopental requirement for induction of anesthesia with small doses of sufentanil and fentanyl. The power spectrum of the electroencephalogram (EEG) was used to quantify the effect of the opioids. Eight male surgical patients, 52-80 yr old, were randomly divided into eight groups of ten to receive fentanyl, 5, 7, 10, or 13 micrograms/kg, or sufentanil, 0.5, 0.7, 1.0, or 1.3 micrograms/kg. The opioid was given iv over 1 min at a constant rate of infusion. Three to four minutes after the start of the opioid dose, thiopental was given iv in 25 mg increments every 30 s until the patient was unconscious. Power in the 1-3 Hz band reached maximum levels in less than 4 min after the start of opioid administration. At fentanyl doses of 7.0 micrograms/kg or less, or sufentanil doses of 1.0 micrograms/kg or less, the EEG effects did not increase in proportion to the dose of opioid. There was not a significant difference in the maximum power achieved in the 1-3 Hz band for sufentanil, 0.5, 0.7 and 1.0, and fentanyl, 5 and 7 micrograms/kg. Doses of fentanyl, 10 or 13 micrograms/kg, or sufentanil, 1.3 micrograms/kg were substantially more effective; the maximum power increased significantly between 7 and 10 micrograms/kg of fentanyl and 1.0 and 1.3 micrograms/kg of sufentanil (P less than 0.0001). The potency of sufentanil and fentanyl were compared by super imposing, the dose versus response (power) curves. The potency ratio was 1:8 (sufentanil:fentanyl).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521436 TI - The dose-response relationship of mivacurium chloride in humans during nitrous oxide-fentanyl or nitrous oxide-enflurane anesthesia. AB - The dose-response relationships of mivacurium chloride during N2O/fentanyl or N2O/enflurane anesthesia were compared in 70 patients intraoperatively. Responses were defined in terms of percentage changes in the evoked twitch tension of the adductor pollicis muscle, and dose-response curves were constructed following probit transformation of the responses. End-tidal concentrations of enflurane during the were study were 0.9-1.2%. When compared with the dose-response curve determined during N2O/fentanyl anesthesia the curve determined during N2O/enflurane anesthesia was displaced significantly to the left (P less than 0.05). As a result, the doses of mivacurium that depressed twitch tension by 50% (ED50) and 95% (ED95) were 39 and 67 micrograms/kg, respectively, during N2O/fentanyl anesthesia, and 27 and 52 micrograms/kg during N2O/enflurane anesthesia. Regression lines describing the relationship between the maximum depression of twitch tension (response) and the time interval between the injection of mivacurium and the return of twitch tension to 90% of the control value (duration) were constructed. The response-duration line for N2O/enflurane anesthesia was displaced significantly to the left of the line for N2O/fentanyl (P less than 0.05), indicating that enflurane anesthesia was associated with a prolongation of mivacurium-induced neuromuscular blockade. The neuromuscular blocking effect of mivacurium is both enhanced by and prolonged during N2O/enflurane compared with that during N2O/fentanyl anesthesia. PMID- 2521437 TI - Effects of "nitrendipine" on nitrous oxide anesthesia, tolerance, and physical dependence. AB - Studies with ethanol have indicated that dihydropyridine-sensitive calcium (Ca++) channels may be involved in the adaptation to prolonged exposure to ethanol. This study investigated the effects, in mice, of the dihydropyridine Ca++ antagonist, nitrendipine, on acute tolerance to nitrous oxide after 60 min exposure to anesthetizing concentrations, and also the withdrawal syndrome which occurred following removal from nitrous oxide. Control mice were anesthetized by nitrous oxide concentrations in the range 1.28-1.51 atmospheres. Nitrendipine 10, 50, and 100 mg.kg-1, i.p., produced a dose-dependent potentiation of nitrous oxide anesthesia (P less than 0.05 for nitrendipine 50 and 100 mg.kg-1). Tolerance to nitrous oxide anesthesia developed over 60 min (13% increase in ED50, P less than 0.05). Concurrent administration of nitrendipine at all doses prevented the development of nitrous oxide tolerance. After 60 min exposure to nitrous oxide 1 1.5 atmospheres, all control mice showed handling seizures. Nitrendipine diminished or prevented nitrous oxide withdrawal seizures, in a dose-dependent manner (P less than 0.05 for nitrendipine 50 and 100 mg.kg-1). These results support the importance of the role of dihydropyridine-sensitive Ca++ channels in the mechanism of tolerance and dependence to central depressant drugs. They also suggest that acute and chronic tolerance to sedative drug action may share some common pathways, and that tolerance and physical dependence may share a common mechanism through voltage-operated Ca++ channels. PMID- 2521438 TI - Methotrexate pneumonitis. Bronchoalveolar lavage findings suggest an immunologic disorder. AB - Methotrexate (MTX) is used widely for the treatment of a variety of tumors as well as for non-neoplastic conditions. Its association with pneumonitis is well established, but the mechanism of lung injury is unknown. To clarify this issue, we performed bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) in six patients with MTX pneumonitis and in three control groups. In those with drug-induced pneumonitis, there was a significant increase in the total number of lavage cells recovered as well as in the percentage and absolute number of lymphocytes compared with those in the other groups. Patients receiving the drug without evidence for pulmonary toxicity had lavage findings that were not different from those in the other control groups. The ratio of BAL phenotypic helper/suppressor T-cells was studied in three patients with MTX toxicity and was found to be increased compared with that in normal healthy control subjects. Our findings show that MTX pneumonitis is characterized by a lymphocytic alveolitis with a predominance of phenotypic helper T-cells and a relative deficiency in the percentage of suppressor T-cells. The presence of increased lavage lymphocytes suggests that an immunologically mediated injury rather than a direct toxic effect of this drug may be a significant pathophysiologic mechanism in this disorder. PMID- 2521439 TI - Dyspnea on immersion: mechanisms in patients with bilateral diaphragm paralysis. AB - Patients with bilateral diaphragm paralysis are able to inflate their lungs by two mechanisms: relaxing the abdominal wall or expanding the rib cage. Each maneuver promotes lung expansion by shifting support of the abdominal contents from the abdominal wall to the diaphragm. We describe a patient with bilateral diaphragm paralysis who experienced acute dyspnea when immersed in water to the level of the abdomen and discuss the precipitation of dyspnea in the context of the strategies available to these patients for lung inflation. PMID- 2521440 TI - Investigation of the substrate structure and metal cofactor requirements of the rat liver mitochondrial ATP synthase/ATPase complex. AB - The F1 moiety of the rat liver mitochondrial ATP synthase/ATPase complex contains as isolated 2 mol Mg2+/mol F1, 1 mol of which is nonexchangeable and the other which is exchangeable (N. Williams, J. Hullihen, and P.L. Pedersen, (1987) Biochemistry 26, 162-169). In addition, the enzyme binds 1 mol ADP/mol F1 and 3 mol AMP.PNP, the latter of which can bind in complex formation with divalent cation and displace the Mg2+ at the exchangeable site. Thus, in terms of ligand binding sites the fully loaded rat liver F1 complex contains 3 mol MgAMP.PNP, 1 mol ADP, and 1 mol Mg2+. In this study we have used several metal ATP complexes or analogs thereof to gain further insight into the ligand binding domains of rat liver F1 and the mechanism by which it catalyzes ATP hydrolysis in soluble and membrane bound form. Studies with LaATP confirmed that MgATP is the most likely substrate for rat liver F1, and provided evidence that the enzyme may contain additional Mg2+ binding sites, undetected in previous studies of F1-ATPases, that are required for catalytic activity. Thus, F1 containing the thermodynamically stable LaATP complex in place of MgATP requires added Mg2+ to induce ATP hydrolysis. As Mg2+ cannot readily displace La2+ under these conditions there appears to be a catalytically important class of Mg2+ binding sites on rat liver F1, distinct from the nonexchangeable Mg2+ site and the sites involved in binding MgATP. Additional studies carried out with exchange inert metal-nucleotide complexes involving rhodium and the Mg2+ and Cd2+ complexes of ATP beta S and ATP alpha S imply that the rate-limiting step in the ATPase reaction pathway occurs subsequent to the P gamma-O-P beta bond cleavage steps, perhaps at the level of Mg(ADP)(Pi) hydrolysis or MgADP release. Evidence is presented that Mg2+ remains coordinated to the leaving group of the reaction, i.e., the beta phosphoryl group. Finally, in contrast to soluble F1, F1 bound to F0 in the inner mitochondrial membrane failed to discriminate between the Mg2+ complexes of the ATP beta S isomers. This indicates that a fundamental difference may exist between the catalytic or kinetic mechanism of F1 and the more physiologically intact F0F1 complex. PMID- 2521441 TI - Specific stimulation of heart sarcolemmal Ca2+/Mg2+ ATPase by concanavalin A. AB - The effects of concanavalin A (Con A) on membrane Ca2+/Mg2+ ATPase activities as well as the characteristics of Con A binding were examined by employing rat heart sarcolemmal preparations. Con A stimulated the Ca2+ ATPase and Mg2+ ATPase activities in sarcolemma; maximal stimulation in these parameters was seen at a concentration of 10 micrograms/ml. The observed effects of Con A were blocked by alpha-methylmannoside. Sarcolemmal Na+-K+ ATPase and Ca2+-stimulated ATPase were not affected by Con A. Likewise, Con A did not alter the mitochondrial, sarcoplasmic reticular, and myofibrillar ATPase activities. Con A was found to bind to sarcolemma; alpha-methylmannoside prevented this binding. The Scatchard plot analysis of the data on specific Con A binding showed a straight line with a Kd of about 530 nM and a Bmax of 235 pmol/mg protein, thus indicating that there was only one kind of binding site for Con A in sarcolemma. These results suggest that Con A is a specific activator of the low affinity Ca2+/Mg2+ ATPase system in the heart sarcolemmal membrane. PMID- 2521442 TI - Percutaneous cardiopulmonary bypass: application and indication for use. AB - Percutaneous cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) was used in 22 patients: 7 patients with cardiac arrest due to acute myocardial infarction; 4 patients in cardiac arrest because of failed angioplasty; 1 patient for high-risk elective angioplasty; 1 patient with massive pulmonary emboli; 2 patients with hypothermia; 2 pediatric patients (1 with sepsis and 1 in combination with extracorporeal membrane oxygenator support); 1 patient with refractory arrhythmia; and 4 patients with trauma. Percutaneous CPB involves a modified Seldinger technique that is easily applied. All patients except those with massive trauma were resuscitated with the use of percutaneous CPB. One patient requiring a very difficult proposed angioplasty received percutaneous CPB support while triple-vessel angioplasty was performed. Percutaneous CPB appears to be beneficial in resuscitating patients with refractory cardiac arrest or other forms of circulatory collapse except trauma. Limited use for brief periods in high-risk patients having elective angioplasty might be applicable. PMID- 2521443 TI - Plain roentgenography for low-back pain. Finding needles in a haystack. PMID- 2521444 TI - Selective criteria may increase lumbosacral spine roentgenogram use in acute low back pain. AB - Eleven clinical criteria have been proposed to limit use of lumbosacral spine roentgenograms in patients with acute low-back pain who are at risk for vertebral cancer, osteomyelitis, acute fracture, or herniated disk. We retrospectively applied the criteria to 471 patients with acute low-back pain in three teaching hospital walk-in clinics. Roentgenograms were obtained at the initial visit in 99 patients (21.1%); the number would have increased to 217 (46.1%) if the criteria had been used. The following four patient characteristics were associated with actual roentgenogram use: older age, longer duration of symptoms, reflex asymmetry, and point vertebral tenderness. Adoption of the 11 criteria studied herein may inadvertently increase roentgenogram use, thereby raising health care costs and exposing more patients to gonadal irradiation. The standard of practice in these three clinics seemed to entail use of less broad roentgenogram selection criteria. Other published guidelines for roentgenograms emphasize clinical follow up, reserving further evaluation for patients who fail to improve after a trial of bed rest and analgesics. PMID- 2521445 TI - Predictive genetic testing to control coronary heart disease and hyperlipidemia. AB - The contribution of genes to the etiology of coronary heart disease (CHD) is highly significant even when monogenic hyperlipidemias are excluded. Previous studies in the area of quantitative genetics and of disease or risk factor association with random genetic markers have, in recent years, been supplemented with studies focused on "candidate genes"--genes whose products are known or suspected to be involved in the atherogenic process, the thrombogenic process, lipid metabolism, or apolipoprotein (apo) structure or function. In 1974, the candidate gene approach led to the detection of a strong association between genetically determined Lp(a) lipoprotein and premature CHD and, in 1976, also led to the detection, in several populations, of the association between lipid levels and genetic types in the normal low density lipoprotein (LDL) polymorphism referred to as the Ag(x) variation. Restriction fragment length polymorphisms in DNA have been uncovered in the genes for several functionally important proteins including apos. Some of these DNA variants have been reported to be associated with CHD or lipid level. Such variants should become useful tools in predictive genetic testing for CHD risk. Most studies on the genetics of risk factors have focused on risk factor level. Because an individual's propensity to develop atherosclerosis could depend not only on absolute lipid levels but also on lipid responses to atherogenic stimuli, we have developed a method to examine if "variability genes" exist. To detect the latter class of genes, we examine within pair differences in quantitative parameters between monozygotic (MZ) twin pairs possessing and MZ twin pairs lacking the gene under study.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521446 TI - Swim-gym promotes health and fitness. PMID- 2521447 TI - Radioimmunoassay for brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) detection of BNP in canine brain. AB - We established a highly sensitive and specific radioimmunoassay (RIA) for BNP. Our RIA detected BNP-like immunoreactivity (-LI) in the porcine and canine brains but did not detect BNP-LI in the human, monkey or rat brain. The widespread distribution of BNP-LI was demonstrated both in the porcine and canine brains, with the highest concentration in the medulla oblongata. In contrast, the highest concentration of ANP-LI determined simultaneously was in the midbrain and the olfactory bulb. High performance-gel permeation chromatography coupled with RIA revealed that the major component of BNP-LI was eluted at the position of synthetic BNP with a small molecular weight (3K). These results indicate that the RIA for BNP serves as a useful tool to investigate physiological roles of BNP. PMID- 2521448 TI - Ontogenetic expression of peptidyl-glycine alpha-amidating monooxygenase mRNA in the rat pancreas. AB - Qualitative and quantitative expression of m.RNA coding for Peptidyl-Glycine alpha-Amidating Monooxygenase (PAM) in the developing rat pancreas was investigated by Northern and dot blot hybridization, with a bovine PAM c.DNA probe (0.7 kb fragment). A specific hybridization signal was evidenced for a 3.7 kb m.RNA species. Measurement of PAM m. RNA rate during the rat pancreas ontogenesis revealed a biphasic profile which appeared corelated with that of gastrin and TRH m.RNA respectively. On the other hand, streptozotocin-treatment resulted in a 50% decrease of PAM m.RNA levels. PMID- 2521449 TI - Endothelial thromboxane receptors: biochemical characterization and functional implications. AB - We have identified thromboxane specific receptors in membrane preparations of bovine pulmonary artery endothelial cells using a potent thromboxane specific antagonist, [125I]-PTA-OH in a binding assay. The binding was specific and saturable. Neither thromboxane B2, prostaglandin D2 nor prostaglandin F2 alpha displaced the ligand (0.1 nM) at concentrations up to 10 microM. However, binding was displaced by IPTA-OH greater than SQ29548 greater than U46619. In addition, we observed that thromboxane mimetic U46619 significantly lowered the basal production of prostacyclin and also markedly suppressed bradykinin-stimulated prostacyclin released by endothelial cells. We propose that an important biological effect of thromboxane on vascular endothelial cells may be the suppression of prostacyclin production. PMID- 2521450 TI - Induction of histidine decarboxylase in rat basophilic leukemia cells by interferon and prevention of its effect in coincubation with ADP ribosyltransferase inhibitors. AB - Treatment of rat basophilic leukemia cell line (2H3) with interferon-alpha significantly increased intracellular histamine levels. On the other hand, the histidine content was decreased reciprocally by interferon in a dose-dependent manner. Concomitantly, the activity of histidine decarboxylase, the enzyme responsible for histamine synthesis, was augmented. The increase in histidine decarboxylase activity was partially abolished in co-incubation with inhibitors of ADP-ribosyltransferase, such as 3-aminobenzamide or nicotinamide. These results suggest the pivotal role of activation of histidine decarboxylase, presumably through ADP-ribosylation of the enzyme, in interferon-induced histamine synthesis. PMID- 2521451 TI - The effect of chemonucleolysis on serum keratan sulfate levels in humans. AB - Sensitive measurements of serum keratan sulfate (KS), a glycosaminoglycan found in large quantities in the proteoglycans of human cartilage, can be obtained using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent-inhibition assay. Patients who are undergoing chemonucleolysis (CN) provide a clinical opportunity to monitor the large-scale proteolytic degradation of cartilage. By measuring serum KS levels both pre- and post-CN, we have demonstrated that serum KS levels rise predictably after CN, in a manner that reflects major catabolic events of cartilage. PMID- 2521452 TI - Comment on the article by Lasky et al. PMID- 2521453 TI - 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 potentiates the in vitro inhibitory effects of cyclosporin A on T cells from rheumatoid arthritis patients. AB - Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with cyclosporin A (CsA) has been successful, but the adverse effects of the drug have limited its use. We investigated the capacity of another immunosuppressive agent, 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25(OH)2D3], to augment the effects of CsA on in vitro T cell functions. Exposure of CD4+ cells from RA patients or from normal subjects to either molecule alone resulted in a dose-dependent inhibition of phytohemagglutinin stimulation and interleukin-2 (IL-2) production that was more pronounced in cells from RA patients than in cells from normal subjects. Moreover, the action of CsA and 1,25(OH)2D3 on RA patient T cell functions in vitro was synergistic. Thus, in the presence of the vitamin D3 metabolite, only one-hundredth the concentration of CsA was required to produce the same effect on IL-2 production as that produced by CsA alone. IL-2 receptor expression was also reduced by the addition of both drugs. In contrast, IL-1 production by RA monocytes was not affected by CsA and 1,25(OH)2D3, either together or alone, and addition of IL-1 did not restore the ability of CD4+ cells from RA patients to secrete IL-2. Exogenous IL-2 reversed a large part of the inhibitory effect induced by both CsA and 1,25(OH)2D3, indicating that the immunosuppressive properties of these agents are mediated by the inhibition of IL-2 secretion. This synergy between 2 molecules that are biochemically very different suggests the existence of one or several sites of interaction that take place during the early stages of T cell activation. PMID- 2521454 TI - Neuroendocrine profile in bulimia nervosa. AB - The neuroendocrinology of bulimia nervosa has only recently been investigated, with initial research suggesting some biological overlap with both anorexia nervosa (AN) and depression. Similarities among AN, depression, and bulimia include a nonsuppressed Dexamethasone Suppression Test and an abnormal growth hormone (GH) response to thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH). Bulimics and anorectics both tend to have a delayed thyrotropin (TSH) response to TRH and elevated basal GH levels. Bulimics, however, have a normal GH response to clonidine, a nonblunted TSH response to TRH, low basal prolactin (PRL) levels, and may have an exaggerated PRL response to TRH. Unpublished data suggest bulimics may have a gonadotropin profile distinct from either AN or depression, as well as a variety of other endocrinopathies. Although many of these abnormalities may reflect malnutrition despite normal weight, other factors that are as yet unidentified are likely to be contributing to the neuroendocrine abnormalities seen in bulimia. PMID- 2521455 TI - Response of cultured human cell lines from rhabdomyosarcoma xenografts to treatment with chloroethylnitrosoureas. AB - DNA interstrand cross-links are thought to be the cytotoxic lesion resulting from treatment of cells with the chlorethylnitrosoureas (CENUs). We showed in an earlier study that the resistance of xenografts of pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma to therapy with CENUs correlates with levels of O6-alkylguanine-DNA alkyltransferase. We now demonstrate a relationship between levels of the alkyltransferase and CENU-induced cytotoxicity and DNA-interstrand cross-link formation in two cell lines recently established from such rhabdomyosarcoma xenografts. Rh18 cells were derived from the HxRh18 xenograft line, which contains the alkyl-transferase and is relatively resistant to CENUs, and Rh28 cells were derived from the HxRh28 xenograft line, which lacks detectable alkyltransferase activity and is sensitive to treatment with the CENUs. In vitro, Rh28 cells were 5- to 6-fold more sensitive to growth inhibition by 1,3-bis(2 chloroethyl)nitrosourea than Rh18 cells. Extracts of Rh18 cells contained 3.8 units of the alkyltransferase per mg of protein, whereas such activity was undetectable in Rh28 cells, a unit of the alkyltransferase being defined as 1 pmol of [3H] methyl transferred from [3H]methyl-labeled DNA to protein. DNA interstrand cross-links, measured by alkaline elution 6 h after a 1-h pulse treatment with CENU, could not be detected in Rh18 cells but were found in the Rh28 line. The phenotypes of the parental xenograft lines defined by their alkyltransferase levels and by responses to CENU therapy of the mice have clearly been retained in the cultured cell lines, and as predicted, cross-link formation was inhibited in the alkyltransferase-containing Rh18 cells. These two new cell lines thus provide a useful model for studying the role of DNA repair in rhabdomyosarcoma resistance to these alkylating agents. PMID- 2521456 TI - Oncodevelopmental expression of--GlcNAc beta 1-6Man alpha 1-6Man beta 1--branched asparagine-linked oligosaccharides in murine tissues and human breast carcinomas. AB - Increased--GlcNAc beta 1-6Man alpha 1-6Man beta--branching in asparagine-linked oligosaccharides has been observed in murine and human tumor cells and has recently been linked to enhanced metastatic potential in experimental tumor models. Leukoagglutinin (L-PHA) requires the beta 1-6-linked lactosamine antenna (beta 1-6 branch) for high affinity binding and was used in this study to quantitate these structures on glycoproteins separated by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Normal rodent tissues and cell lines were used to standardize the experimental conditions required to quantitate beta 1-6 branched oligosaccharide structures and the glycosyltransferase activity which initiates the synthesis of the antenna, beta 1-6 N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) transferase V (EC 2.4.1.155). Secondly, the levels of L-PHA-reactive oligosaccharide were compared in a series of benign and malignant human breast biopsies. Normal human breast tissue and benign lesions showed low expression but 50% of the primary malignancies examined showed significantly elevated L-PHA reactivity. GlcNAc transferase V activities in the human breast carcinomas and in normal murine tissues correlated with the levels of L-PHA reactive oligosaccharide in the tissues. GlcNAc transferase V showed similar ranges of activities, differing by approximately 5-fold between high and low expressing mouse tissues; fibroblasts with and without an activated H-ras oncogene; and low and high expressing human breast carcinomas. The results show that beta 1-6 branching in asparagine-linked oligosaccharides is dependent on tissue-specific regulation of GlcNAc transferase V activity. Secondly, a subset of human breast malignancies showed elevated levels of beta 1-6-branched oligosaccharides compared to benign samples, suggesting that further studies are warranted to determine whether the presence of these oligosaccharides is associated with metastatic disease and reduced patient survival time. PMID- 2521458 TI - Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of anomalous right coronary artery. AB - Angioplasty of anomalous coronary arteries can be technically challenging because of difficulty in selectively cannulating the aberrant vessel. We present our experience with angioplasty of an anomalous right coronary artery. A Judkins-type left coronary catheter with an eccentric tip, the FL4-G type catheter was used to obtain stable position in the right coronary artery and angioplasty was performed. PMID- 2521457 TI - Lymphokine-activated killer activity in long-term cultures with anti-CD3 plus interleukin 2: identification and isolation of effector subsets. AB - Peripheral blood lymphocytes cultured in recombinant interleukin 2 during 3 to 5 days (short-term cultures) develop the ability to lyse natural killer-resistant tumor lines and fresh tumor cells, i.e., express lymphokine-activated killer (LAK) function. Phenotypic analysis has shown these cells to be natural killer cells, i.e., CD16+ and/or Leu 19+ cells. CD3+,CD16- T-cells, instead, develop very low LAK function in these cultures. We recently reported the development of long-term (up to 21 days) cultured cells with LAK activity by stimulation with OKT3 + interleukin 2(IL2). These culture conditions repeatedly resulted in a several hundred-fold expansion in cell number. Specific LAK activity on Day 14 of culture was comparable to that of 3-day LAK cultures and could be further enhanced by the addition of interleukin 1 beta, beta-, or gamma-interferon. Total LAK activity was greatly increased in OKT3 + IL2 cultures over that found in short-term cultures. Isolation of effectors mediating LAK function in long-term cultures stimulated with OKT3 + IL2 showed that both CD3+,CD16- cells and CD16+,CD3- cells tested on Day 14 of culture expressed equivalent levels of LAK activity as shown by lysis of natural killer-resistant targets, HL60 and Daudi. Further dissection of the subpopulations developing LAK activity demonstrated that, in addition to CD16+,CD3- cells, CD3+, CD4-,CD8- cells and Leu 19+,CD3 ,CD16- cells also developed high LAK activity in long-term cultures with OKT3 + IL2. Further, long-term culture with OKT3 + IL2 induced increases in the numbers not only of CD3+,CD4-,CD8- cells but also of CD16+,CD3- and Leu 19+,CD3-,CD16- cells. Although there is a significant increase in the number of CD3+,CD8+ cells, neither these, nor the CD3+,CD4+ cells, mediate LAK activity to the same extent as the populations mentioned above. PMID- 2521459 TI - Search and retrieval of a radiolucent foreign object. AB - Successful percutaneous removal of an intravascular foreign body requires precise localization of the object so that retrieval devices can be properly positioned. Here we report the successful search for and retrieval of a catheter embolus lost in the ascending aorta during PTCA whose localization was complicated because it was radiolucent. PMID- 2521460 TI - Guidewire technique. PMID- 2521461 TI - Changes in integrin receptors on oncogenically transformed cells. AB - Oncogenically transformed cells show reduced assembly of fibronectin-rich extracellular matrixes and diminished ability to adhere to fibronectin. The molecular bases of these phenotypic alteration are not fully understood. We report here alterations in the spectrum of integrins, including two fibronectin receptors, on oncogenic transformation of rodent cells. Transformation of rat1, NRK, and Nil8 cells by Rous sarcoma virus or by murine sarcoma viruses encoding ras oncogenes leads to reductions in the level of integrin alpha 5 beta 1, which is a well-defined fibronectin receptor, and of two other integrin receptors. In contrast, another receptor, alpha 3 beta 1, which is a polyspecific receptor for fibronectin, laminin, and collagen, is retained by transformed cells. These results provide explanations for earlier results concerning the interactions of extracellular matrix proteins with the surfaces of tumor cells and offer leads to further understanding of the altered adhesive and migratory behavior of malignant cells. PMID- 2521462 TI - Modifying influence of dehydroepiandrosterone or butylated hydroxytoluene treatment on initiation and development stages of azaserine-induced acinar pancreatic preneoplastic lesions in the rat. AB - Dietary administration of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) (0.6%) or butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) (1%) during or subsequent to two i.p. injections of azaserine (30 mg/kg body wt) resulted in significant alteration of yield of preneoplastic lesions in both pancreas and liver. While concomitant application appeared not to have any effect on subsequent development of glutathione S transferase P form (GST-P) positive hepatocellular lesions in either case, BHT and to a lesser extent also DHEA reduced initiation of pancreatic acinar carcinogenesis. Both BHT and DHEA were associated with significant increase in GST-A form positive pancreatic foci when administered after cessation of carcinogen treatment while clearly inhibiting liver lesion development. The results point to a marked differential in the response of the liver and pancreas to external stimulus with regard to preneoplastic focal lesions while demonstrating significant second stage promotion of pancreatic acinar carcinogenesis by BHT and DHEA. PMID- 2521463 TI - Role of renal nerves in the potentiation of atriopeptin-induced natriuresis by vasopressin. AB - Previous studies have shown that vasopressin potentiates the natriuresis produced by atriopeptin. In five anesthetized dogs of this study, we found that the potentiation was proportional to the dose of vasopressin infused. Sodium excretion was 46 +/- 16 mueq/min with atriopeptin (103-126) (AP24) alone (0.36 nmol/kg.min), was increased to 127 +/- 29 by concomitant intravenous infusion of 0.4 mU/kg.min vasopressin, was further increased to 301 +/- 75 by 1.2 mU/kg.min vasopressin and leveled off at 328 +/- 37 with 3.6 mU/kg.min vasopressin. To investigate whether the potentiation by vasopressin was due to an intrarenal action, we infused three doses of vasopressin (0.04, 0.12, and 0.36 mU/kg.min) into the renal artery during intravenous AP24 infusion in a second group of five dogs. The natriuresis, 128 +/- 18 mueq/min, was unaffected by any intrarenal dose of vasopressin. In a third group, we determined whether the potentiation produced by vasopressin was mediated by a mechanism involving the renal nerves by denervating the left kidney before AP24 infusion. In the denervated kidneys, sodium excretion was increased from a control value of 33 +/- 5 mueq/min to 303 +/- 38 with AP24 alone and was unresponsive to subsequent intravenous vasopressin administration. The exaggerated natriuresis with AP24 alone was of the same magnitude as that produced by AP24 plus the highest doses of intravenous vasopressin in the innervated kidneys of the first group. From these results we conclude that the potentiation of AP-induced natriuresis by vasopressin is mediated by a mechanism involving the renal nerves and probably results from the known effect of vasopressin to inhibit renal nerve activity. PMID- 2521465 TI - Nonsurgical therapy for low back pain and sciatica. PMID- 2521466 TI - Validating and treating the complaint of chronic back pain: the Mensana Clinic approach. PMID- 2521464 TI - Higher antioxidative capacity during a chronic stable heart hypertrophy. AB - Changes in oxygen radical mechanisms during 6-48 weeks of heart hypertrophy in rats subjected to a narrowing of the subdiaphragmatic aorta were examined. During this period, hypertrophied hearts demonstrated a stable hyperfunction, as indicated by an elevated but stable left ventricular systolic pressure, dP/dt, and aortic pressure and no change in left ventricular end diastolic pressure. Experimental animals showed increased heart-to-body weight ratios; however, the conventional signs of heart failure such as increased wet-to-dry weight ratios of liver and lung, ascites, or pleural effusion were absent. Hearts were examined for superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and lipid peroxide activities. The superoxide dismutase activity was significantly higher in hypertrophied hearts at 6 and 12 weeks as compared with sham-operated rats (sham controls), while no difference was seen at 24 and 48 weeks due to a marked increase in the superoxide dismutase activity of sham control hearts in these age groups. During the period studied, glutathione peroxidase activity remained unchanged in controls but was significantly elevated in hypertrophied hearts. Lipid peroxide activity as indicated by the malondialdehyde content was significantly lower in hypertrophied hearts. Perfusion of isolated control and hypertrophy hearts with xanthine-xanthine oxidase, an exogenous source of oxygen radicals, resulted in contractile failure and rise in resting tension. In hypertrophied hearts, however, the contractile force was better maintained and there was a lesser rise in resting tension after exposure to xanthine-xanthine oxidase. The study suggests the development of a higher antioxidative capacity during the stable phase of hypertrophy due to a chronic pressure overload. PMID- 2521467 TI - Disability, pain, and suffering. PMID- 2521468 TI - Hypothalamic factors involved in the endogenous stimulatory rhythm regulating prolactin secretion. AB - We recently reported that acute pharmacologic depression of dopaminergic tone at different times of day unmasks a sex-specific endogenous stimulatory rhythm regulating PRL secretion. The PRL secretory responses of ovariectomized rats to the dopamine antagonist domperidone (DOM) were higher at 0300 and 1700 h than at 1200 h. These are the times during which surges of PRL appear in mated rats. This experimental paradigm was used to investigate the roles of the putative PRL releasing factors (PRFs) oxytocin (OT), vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), and serotonin (5-HT) in this rhythm. The role of OT was studied by infusion of the OT antagonist 1-deamino-2-D-Trp-4-Val-8-Orn-Oxytocin (OT-A, 0.5 microgram/kg min) for 6 h. Two hours after beginning the OT-A infusion DOM was administered, as a single injection of 200 micrograms/kg iv at either 0300, 1200, or 1700 h. Serial blood samples were collected immediately before and 5, 10, 20, 30, 60, 120, 180, and 240 min after DOM administration. Infusion of OT-A attenuated the heightened PRL secretory responses to DOM given at both 0300 and 1700 h but did not affect the response at 1200 h. The role of VIP was studied by infusing the VIP antagonist [D, 4-Cl-Phe6,Leu17] VIP (VIP-A, 0.1 microgram/kg.min) as described above. VIP-A infusion had no effect on the PRL secretory responses to DOM given at 1200 or 1700 h but attenuated the heightened response at 0300 h. In order to study the role of 5-HT in the rhythm, rats were pretreated with p chlorophenylalanine (250 mg/kg sc) 48 and again 24 h before the experiment. Pretreatment with p-chlorophenylalanine had no effect on the PRL secretory responses to DOM given at 0300 or 1200 h, but it attenuated the augmented PRL secretory response at 1700 h. These data suggest that both VIP and OT act as endogenous PRFs at 0300 h and 5-HT and OT act as PRFs at 1700 h. We propose that VIP and 5-HT are continuously active oscillatory neurotransmitters regulating OT release into pituitary portal blood and that these daily events only eventuate in PRL release when the mating stimulus has release the lactotroph from the inhibitory effects of dopamine. PMID- 2521470 TI - Depletion of serotonin using p-chlorophenylalanine (PCPA) and reserpine protects against the neurotoxic effects of p-chloroamphetamine (PCA) in the brain. AB - The present study attempts to determine whether the neurotoxicity of p chloroamphetamine (PCA) is dependent on a releasable pool of serotonin (5-HT). Rats treated with PCA alone or with reserpine and PCA exhibit a profound loss of 5-HT innervation in cerebral cortex after a 2-week survival period. However, depletion of 5-HT by combined treatment with p-chlorophenylalanine (PCPA) and reserpine provides substantial protection against the neurotoxic effects of PCA. These results indicate that release of 5-HT is a necessary step in the neurotoxicity of PCA and that a peripheral source of 5-HT is involved. We suggest that 5-HT release from platelets into the peripheral circulation may result in the formation of a neurotoxic 5-HT metabolite. PMID- 2521469 TI - Cell-surface heparan sulfate and heparan-sulfate/chondroitin-sulfate hybrid proteoglycans of mouse mammary epithelial cells. AB - The hydrophobic cell-surface proteoglycans of mouse mammary epithelial cells were purified by gel filtration, ion-exchange chromatography, and liposome incorporation. The size of the proteoglycans appeared to be directly proportional to the size of their heparan-sulfate chains, larger proteoglycans yielding larger chains. The chondroitin sulfate chains, in contrast, showed no size heterogeneity. Digestion of 125I-labeled proteoglycans with heparitin-sulfate lyase and chondroitin ABC lyase yielded core proteins of approximately 93 kDa, approximately 85 kDa and approximately 38 kDa. Comparison with single enzyme digestions identified the 93-kDa and 85-kDa cores as components of hybrid proteoglycans that carried both heparan-sulfate and chondroitin-sulfate chains. Immunoblotting indicated that the 93-kDa and 85-kDa cores shared the epitope defined by monoclonal antibody 281-2. The 38-kDa core, in contrast, carried only heparan-sulfate chains and lacked the 281-2 epitope. Preparations enriched in heparan sulfate or in heparan-sulfate/chondroitin-sulfate hybrid proteoglycans were obtained by N-desulfation and ion-exchange chromatography. Hybrid proteoglycans accounting for the bulk of the chondroitin-sulfate and nearly half of the heparan-sulfate residues of the proteoglycans showed a similar polydispersity of heparan-sulfate chain sizes as found in proteoglycans that carried only, or predominantly, heparan-sulfate chains. These hybrids contained heparan-sulfate and chondroitin-sulfate chains in similar molar amounts. Analysis of 125I-labeled proteoglycans suggested that typical hybrid proteoglycans were composed of a 85-kDa core protein that carries a single chondroitin-sulfate chain and a single heparan-sulfate chain of variable length. A minority of hybrids seemed characterized by the variant, but possibly structurally related, 93-kDa core protein. The other half of the hydrophobic proteoglycans were composed of the 38-kDa core and carried only heparan-sulfate chains. The significance of the co-existence of hybrid and heparan-sulfate proteoglycans at the cell surface and possible relationships between the proteoglycans need to be further clarified. PMID- 2521471 TI - Treatment of hirsutism with cimetidine: a prospective randomized controlled trial. AB - Cimetidine (Tagamet, Smith Klein, Brussels, Belgium) the histamine receptor type 2 blocker, has been suggested as a possible treatment of hirsutism. In a prospective randomized controlled trial, cimetidine 1.5 gm a day was given for 3 months to 12 moderately or severely hirsute women, while 8 other women were randomized to serve as a control group. There was no significant change in the hair growth rate in either group as measured by two assessment methods. This finding suggests that cimetidine, given in the recommended dose for a period of 3 months, does not have a beneficial effect on hirsutism. PMID- 2521472 TI - Naturally occurring Fusarium toxins in New Zealand maize. AB - Twenty samples of maize collected from healthy growing crops and at harvest time and during storage were screened for four Fusarium toxins (deoxynivalenol, diacetoxyscirpenol, T-2 toxin and zearalenone) by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and thin-layer chromatography. Seventeen samples (85%) contained one or more of these toxins. Zearalenone was present in 15 samples at levels ranging between 0.1 and 16 ppm. Deoxynivalenol, diacetoxyscirpenol and T-2 toxin were found in 11, 6 and 13 samples respectively, all at levels below 1 ppm. This work documents the first reported natural occurrence of Fusarium toxins in New Zealand maize, and it is concluded that all four of the mycotoxins studied are prevalent in apparently healthy standing crops as well as in stored maize. PMID- 2521473 TI - Control of illegal medroxyprogesterone acetate-application in veal calves by residue analysis in adipose tissue using HPLC/RIA methods. AB - Procedures for the determination of medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) in adipose tissue collected at time of slaughter allowing the control of MPA application to veal calves are described. Screening radioimmunoassays after sample clean-up were sufficient for a first survey of MPA treatments in livestock herds. Validation of all positive samples was performed by two-dimensional (silica gel diol phase and RP-18 phase) HPLC/RIA immunograms. Megestrol acetate and melengestrol acetate with cross-reactivities of 31% and 0.3% respectively were clearly separated by the RP HPLC. With an absolute detection limit of 4 pg MPA/tube (90% relative binding) negative control samples did not exceed 6 pg/tube, equivalent to 6 pg/g fat in the validating method. Seventeen days after intramuscular (i.m.) injection of 24 mg MPA only 32 pg MPA/g fat were found, while i.m. injection of 60 mg MPA and a waiting period of 19 days resulted in 2700 pg MPA/g fat. After feeding two calves 20 micrograms MPA per head daily for 1 week followed by 200 micrograms MPA per head daily for 2 weeks 359 and 468 pg MPA/g fat were measured. In plasma as well as in adipose tissue more than 80% of the whole immunoreactive material was MPA itself, without indications for the presence of cross-reacting MPA metabolites as confirmed by HPLC/RIA immunograms. Based on day of slaughter ratios of accumulation of MPA from plasma into fat of MPA-fed veal calves were 52 and 72 respectively. In urine MPA was only detectable a few days after injection; as compared to a plasma concentration of 950 pg MPA/ml the amount in urine was only 37 pg MPA/ml and also 325 pg unidentified MPA-equivalents/ml. PMID- 2521474 TI - Different immune mechanisms leading to autoimmunity in primary sclerosing cholangitis and autoimmune chronic active hepatitis of childhood. AB - Children with primary sclerosing cholangitis or autoimmune chronic active hepatitis have similar high levels of immunoglobulin G and non-organ-specific autoantibodies and may have similar histological features. To investigate a possible immunopathogenesis of primary sclerosing cholangitis, we have studied a series of regulatory and/or effector immune mechanisms in eight children with primary sclerosing cholangitis, comparing them to 14 children with autoimmune chronic active hepatitis and 24 healthy children as controls. Antibodies to a liver membrane protein preparation were found in all children with autoimmune chronic active hepatitis tested and in seven of eight with primary sclerosing cholangitis, whereas antibodies against the hepatic asialoglycoprotein receptor were present in three of six patients with autoimmune chronic active hepatitis and in two of the eight with primary sclerosing cholangitis. Lymphocyte cytotoxicity values to autologous hepatocytes were similarly elevated in primary sclerosing cholangitis (median: 50%; range: 38 to 83%) and in autoimmune chronic active hepatitis (median: 52%; range 37 to 87%) compared to controls (median: 8%; range: 0 to 27%) (p less than 0.01 for both). In contrast, T suppressor cell number and function were normal in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (median: 23%; range: 19 to 28%; and median: 54%; range: 44 to 61%), but significantly decreased in patients with autoimmune chronic active hepatitis (median: 15%; range: 9 to 21%; and median: 9%; range: -40 to +21%) when compared to controls (median: 24%; range: 16 to 29%; and median: 53%; range: 8 to 77%) (p less than 0.01 for both).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521475 TI - Floxuridine-induced sclerosing cholangitis: an ischemic cholangiopathy? AB - A 43-year-old man underwent abdominoperineal resection of a rectal adenocarcinoma, and left hepatic lobectomy for a single metastasis. He then received hepatic artery infusions of floxuridine. The tumor did not recur, but sclerosing cholangitis and liver failure developed which necessitated orthotopic liver transplantation. In the hilus of the native liver, obstructive arteriopathy and portal venopathy were found. These lesions probably had been caused by drug induced intravascular thrombosis. Thus, the sclerosing cholangitis that develops in many patients after floxuridine infusion may be ischemic rather than toxic. The patient described here is well, 14 months after orthotopic liver transplantation. Therefore, in some cases of floxuridine-induced cholangitis, liver transplantation appears to be indicated despite a history of metastasizing carcinoma. PMID- 2521476 TI - Laser-assisted angioplasty of inferior vena caval obstructions: what's good for the artery is good for the vein. PMID- 2521477 TI - The gene for the Lp(a)-specific glycoprotein is closely linked to the gene for plasminogen on chromosome 6. AB - We have studied the segregation of the Lp(a) glycoprotein phenotypes and of the plasminogen (PLG) polymorphism in three two-generation families. The inheritance of the Lp(a) gene was followed using the Lp(a) glycoprotein size polymorphism and that of the plasminogen gene, using protein and DNA polymorphisms. In the three families studied, no recombination was observed in 18 meioses. The lod score for linkage between the Lp(a) glycoprotein locus and the plasminogen locus in these families is greater than 5.0 at a recombination fraction of theta = 0. Our results show that the structural gene for the Lp(a) glycoprotein is closely linked to the gene for plasminogen on chromosome 6. PMID- 2521478 TI - C3bi-binding protein on Candida albicans: temperature-dependent expression and relationship to human complement receptor type 3. AB - We investigated in detail the previously described capacity of pseudohyphae of Candida albicans to bind C3-coated particles. We show that the expression of the C3bi receptor of C. albicans was dependent upon the growth temperature of the fungi. C. albicans grown at 30 degrees C bound strongly to EAC1423bi, whereas those cells grown at 38.5 degrees C were completely devoid of this capacity. The molecule responsible for the attachment of EAC1423bi was heat labile and trypsin sensitive. Several, but not all, monoclonal antibodies to the alpha-chain of human complement receptor type 3 (CR3) stained C. albicans, and this reactivity was expressed in parallel with the capacity of C. albicans to bind EAC1423bi, i.e., both were dependent on the growth temperature of the fungi and were trypsin sensitive. In contrast to CR3, the binding of EAC1423bi to C. albicans did not require the presence of divalent cations. Rabbit immunoglobulin G antibodies directed against C. albicans inhibited the binding of EAC1423bi to C. albicans but not to human CR3. These inhibiting IgG antibodies recognized antigens expressed on the surface of pseudohyphae but not those of yeast cells. OKM-1, a monoclonal antibody to human CR3 inhibited the attachment of EAC1423bi to CR3 and also to C. albicans. OKM-1 precipitated a 130-kilodalton band from solubilized 125I-labeled C. albicans. We conclude that the complement receptors on C. albicans and human CR3 were antigenically related but not identical and that they differed in their functional characteristics. PMID- 2521479 TI - Education of patients undergoing coronary angioplasty: factors affecting learning during a structured educational program. AB - A structured educational program for patients undergoing coronary angioplasty was designed and administered to 97 patients undergoing their first procedure. Knowledge, coping style, social support, health locus of control, IQ, and demographic and medical factors were assessed before the procedure. Risk factor knowledge, anxiety, and medical status were assessed before discharge, and at 6 months and 2 years after angioplasty. Total knowledge mean score for all patients was higher at discharge (p less than 0.05). There was no significant difference between knowledge scores at baseline and at either 6 months or 2 years. Analyses revealed that patients with a repressive coping style learned less during hospitalization (p less than 0.05). No factors predicted retention of knowledge at 6 months or 2 years. These results indicate that a structured educational approach may have beneficial effects on immediate knowledge gain, although these results are not sustained. Coping assessment may provide information valuable for understanding differences in knowledge retention. PMID- 2521480 TI - Analysis of the proteoglycans synthesized by corneal explants from embryonic chicken. II. Structural characterization of the keratan sulfate and dermatan sulfate proteoglycans from corneal stroma. AB - Radioisotopically labeled proteoglycans were isolated from a 4 M guanidine HCl, 2% Triton X-100 extract of corneal stroma from day 18 chicken embryos by anion exchange chromatography. Two predominant proteoglycans in the sample were separated by octyl-Sepharose chromatography using a gradient elution of detergent in 4 M guanidine HCl. One proteoglycan had an overall mass of approximately 125 kDa, a single dermatan sulfate chain (approximately 85-90% chondroitin 4-sulfate, low iduronate content) of approximately 65 kDa, and a core protein after chondroitinase ABC digestion of approximately 45 kDa which also contained one to three N-linked oligosaccharides and one O-linked oligosaccharide. The other proteoglycan had an overall size of approximately 100 kDa, two to three keratan sulfate chains of approximately 15 kDa each, and a core protein following keratanase digestion of approximately 51 kDa which included two to three N-linked but no O-linked oligosaccharides. A larger size, a greater overall hydrophobicity (as measured by its interaction with octyl-Sepharose) and an absence of O-linked oligosaccharides argue that this core protein is a distinct gene product from the core protein of the dermatan sulfate proteoglycan. PMID- 2521481 TI - Effect of multiple phosphorylations of smooth muscle and cytoplasmic myosins on movement in an in vitro motility assay. AB - The Nitella-based in vitro motility assay developed by Sheetz and Spudich (Sheetz, M.P., and Spudich, J. A. (1983) Nature 303, 31-35) is a quantitative assay for measuring the velocity of myosin-coated beads over an organized substratum of actin. We have used this assay to analyze the effect of phosphorylation of various sites on the 20,000-Da light chain of smooth muscle and cytoplasmic myosins. Phosphorylation by myosin light chain kinase at serine 19 on the 20,000-Da light chain subunit of smooth muscle myosin from turkey gizzard, bovine trachea and aorta, and of cytoplasmic myosin from human platelets was required for bead movement. The individual phosphorylated myosin-coated beads moved at characteristic rates under the same conditions (turkey gizzard myosin, 0.2 micron/s; aorta or trachea myosin, 0.12 micron/s; and platelet myosin, 0.04 micron/s; in contrast, rabbit skeletal muscle myosin, 2 micron/s). Myosin light chain kinase can also phosphorylate threonine 18 in addition to serine 19, and this phosphorylation resulted in an increase in the actin-activated MgATPase activity (Ikebe, M., and Hartshorne, D.J. (1985) J. Biol. Chem. 260, 10027 10031). Phosphorylation at this site had no effect on the velocity of smooth muscle myosin-coated beads. Protein kinase C (Ca2+/phospholipid-dependent enzyme) can also phosphorylate two to three sites on the 20,000-Da light chain, and this phosphorylation alone did not result in the movement of myosin-coated beads. When myosin that had been previously phosphorylated by myosin light chain kinase at serine 19 was also phosphorylated by protein kinase C, myosin-coated beads moved at the same velocity as beads coated with myosin phosphorylated by myosin light chain kinase alone. Tropomyosin binding to actin also had an activating effect on the actin-activated MgATPase activity through an effect on the Vmax and also resulted in an increase in the velocity of myosin-coated beads. PMID- 2521482 TI - Effects of modifications of the RGD sequence and its context on recognition by the fibronectin receptor. AB - The receptor for fibronectin is a member of the integrin superfamily of cell surface adhesion receptors, many of which recognize the sequence RGD in their ligands. We have developed sensitive enzyme-linked and radioreceptor assays to examine the ligand specificity of the fibronectin receptor. The fibronectin receptor bound only to fibronectin of the various Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD)-containing proteins tested. The smallest amount of receptor detectable in the assay was about 10 ng. Mn2+ enhanced the binding of the receptor to fibronectin 3-10-fold as compared to Ca2+ and Mg2+. Scatchard analysis of the saturation plot from the radioreceptor assay gave a dissociation constant (Kd) of 3 x 10(-8) M for the binding of fibronectin receptor to fibronectin in the presence of Mn2+. Inhibition experiments showed that the affinities of the ligands for the receptor decreased in the order of fibronectin approximately 110-kDa fibronectin fragment greater than GRGDSP peptide greater than 11.5-kDa fragment. Peptides not containing an RGD were several hundred to several thousand-fold less inhibitory than GRGDSP. These included the closely related peptides GRADSP and GRGESP, as well as three peptides containing the reverse sequence DGR. A peptide from the fibrinogen gamma-chain, KQAGDV, which had about 0.5% of the inhibitory activity of the standard GRGDSP peptide, was the most active peptide not containing an RGD. These results document the exquisite specificity of the fibronectin receptor for the RGD sequence. PMID- 2521483 TI - Organization and sequence of the genes coding for the proton-translocating ATPase of Bacillus megaterium. AB - We have cloned and sequenced the genes for the subunits of the proton translocating ATP synthase of Bacillus megaterium QM B1551. The arrangement of the genes is identical to the arrangement of the same genes (the unc operon) in Escherichia coli. The genes for the Fo subunits immediately precede the genes for the F1 subunits and are themselves preceded by an open reading frame which codes for a protein similar to the E. coli i protein. In contrast to the E. coli ATPase genes, the transcript for these ATPase genes does not include this open reading frame. PMID- 2521484 TI - Pleiotropic resistance to glycoprotein processing inhibitors in Chinese hamster ovary cells. The role of a novel mutation in the asparagine-linked glycosylation pathway. AB - In order to obtain a better understanding of the control mechanisms involved in asparagine-linked glycosylation, we developed conditions under which the glucosidase I and II inhibitor castanospermine and the mannosidase II inhibitor swainsonine were toxic to Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells when cultured in the presence of low concentrations of the plant lectin concanavalin A. Cells resistant to castanospermine (CsR cells) and swainsonine (SwR cells) were obtained by gradual stepwise selections. These cells had normal levels of glucosidase II and mannosidase II and appeared to have no major structural alterations in their surface asparagine-linked oligosaccharides. Interestingly, the CsR and SwR cells were each pleiotropically resistant to castanospermine, swainsonine, and deoxymannojirimycin, an inhibitor of mannosidase I. This resistance was not due to the multiple-drug resistance phenomenon. Both the CsR and SwR cell populations synthesized Man5GlcNAc2 in place of Glc3Man9GlcNAc2 as the major dolichol-linked oligosaccharide. This defect was not due to a loss of mannosylphosphoryldolichol synthetase. Furthermore, the Man5GlcNAc2 oligosaccharide was transferred to protein and appeared to give rise to normal mature oligosaccharides. Thus, the CsR and SwR cells achieved resistance to castanospermine, swainsonine, and deoxymannojirimycin by synthesizing altered dolichol-linked oligosaccharides that reduced or eliminated the requirements for glucosidases I and II and mannosidases I and II during the production of normal asparagine-linked oligosaccharides. We propose that this phenotype be termed PIR, for processing inhibitor resistance. PMID- 2521486 TI - A conserved gene encoding the 57-kDa subunit of the yeast vacuolar H+-ATPase. AB - The peripheral (catalytic) sector of vacuolar H+-ATPases contains five different polypeptides denoted as subunits A-E in order of decreasing molecular masses from 72 to 33 kDa. The gene encoding subunit B (57 kDa) of yeast vacuolar H+-ATPase was cloned on a 5-kilobase pair genomic DNA fragment and sequenced. Four open reading frames were identified in the sequenced DNA. One of them encodes a protein of 504 amino acids with a calculated Mr of 56,557. Hydropathy plot revealed no apparent transmembrane segments. Southern analysis demonstrated that a single gene encodes this polypeptide in the yeast genome. The amino acid sequence exhibits extensive identity with the homologous protein from the plant Arabidopsis (77%). This polypeptide also contains regions of homology with the alpha subunits of H+-ATPases from mitochondria, chloroplasts, and bacteria. However, less similarity was detected when it was compared with the beta subunits of those enzymes. The implication of these phenomena on the evolution of proton pumps is discussed. PMID- 2521485 TI - Secretion and degradation of lipoprotein lipase in cultured adipocytes. Binding of lipoprotein lipase to membrane heparan sulfate proteoglycans is necessary for degradation. AB - Equilibrium-binding data of highly purified 125I-labeled avian lipoprotein lipase to cultured avian adipocytes demonstrate the presence of a class of high affinity binding sites. Analysis of the binding function yielded an association constant of 0.62 x 10(8)M-1 and a maximum binding capacity of 2.1 micrograms/60-mm dish. From a time course of dissociation of 125I-lipoprotein lipase from adipocytes at 4 degrees C, a dissociation rate constant of 6.1 x 10(-5)s-1 was obtained. Pretreatment of cells with heparinase and heparitinase resulted in a quantitative suppression of the high affinity binding component, establishing that lipoprotein lipase is bound to cell surface heparan sulfate proteoglycans. At 37 degrees C, cell surface-bound 125I-lipoprotein lipase is internalized and either degraded or recycled to the medium. The degradation rate constant for 125I-lipoprotein lipase was estimated to be 0.78 h-1. The degradation rate constant was reduced 6-fold when cells were exposed to 100 microM chloroquine, indicating that most of the degradation occurs within the lysosomal compartment. By using cells that had been pulsed with Trans35S-label for 1 h, it was demonstrated that acute treatment with endoglycosidases for up to 1 h resulted in a new lipoprotein lipase secretion rate which was 6-fold higher than that of control cells. Degradation of newly synthesized lipoprotein lipase was essentially blocked 30 min after the initiation of the chase. In other studies it was observed that there were no additive effects of chloroquine and either endoglycosidase or heparin treatment on total lipoprotein lipase levels (intracellular, cell surface, and medium) in adipocyte cultures. These experiments support the hypothesis that the release of lipoprotein lipase from its receptor prevents its internalization and degradation and enhances enzyme efflux from the adipocyte. A new model of lipoprotein lipase secretion in cultured adipocytes is proposed: Newly synthesized lipoprotein lipase is transported to the cell surface where it binds to specific heparan sulfate proteoglycan receptors. The enzyme is either released to the medium or internalized via the receptor, in which case the enzyme is degraded or recycled to the cell surface. Major determinants of enzyme efflux from the cell surface include the number and integrity of receptors, the association constant of the enzyme-receptor complex, and the presence in the medium of competing molecules with high affinity for lipoprotein lipase. In this model, modulation of lipoprotein lipase degradation rate may be a significant mechanism for acute regulation of enzyme efflux independent of changes in the rate of enzyme synthesis. PMID- 2521487 TI - Protein kinase C substrates from bovine brain. Purification and characterization of neuromodulin, a neuron-specific calmodulin-binding protein. AB - Although such solubility is uncommon among proteins generally, several bovine brain proteins were found to be soluble in 2.5% perchloric acid, and many of them were in vitro substrates for protein kinase C (Ca2+/phospholipid-dependent enzyme). Two of the perchloric acid-soluble brain proteins were purified, p43 and p17. P43 and p17 could be phosphorylated by protein kinase C only in the presence of Ca2+ and phospholipids and neither was a substrate for protein kinase II. P43 was subsequently identified as the neurospecific, calmodulin-binding protein, neuromodulin (also designated P-57, GAP43, B50, or F1) (Alexander, K. H., Wakim, B. T., Doyle, G. S., Walsh, K. A., and Storm, D. R. (1988) J. Biol. Chem. 263, 7544-7549). A rapid purification method for neuromodulin was developed taking advantage of its newly discovered property, solubility in 2.5% perchloric acid, and of its previously recognized calmodulin-binding property. Evidence was obtained that neuromodulin isolated from cytosolic extract exists as a mixture of molecular forms and that the Ca2+-binding S100 protein-beta discriminates among the different neuromodulin isoforms in forming covalent complexes via disulfide bridges; this discrimination may be explained by analogous differences observed between the NH2-terminal amino acid sequences of p57 and F1. Solubility in 2.5% perchloric acid was demonstrated for another rat brain protein kinase C substrate, p87. We suggest that perchloric acid solubility might be a common property of protein kinase C substrates. PMID- 2521488 TI - Differing erythrocyte membrane skeletal protein defects in alpha and beta thalassemia. AB - Thalassemic red cells show irregular morphology and maldistribution of glycoproteins and sialic acids. These changes are compatible with damage to the red cell membrane skeleton. To test this possibility, we systematically studied the interconnections of skeletal proteins in patients with a form of alpha thalassemia (HbH disease), in patients with beta thalassemia intermedia, and in normal individuals. Alpha- and beta-thalassemic spectrin functions normally in spectrin self-association, binding to normal inside-out vesicles (IOVs), and binding to actin in the presence and absence of normal protein 4.1. Binding of normal spectrin to beta: thalassemic IOVs is normal but alpha-thalassemic IOVs are defective and bind only half the normal amount of spectrin (66 +/- 5 vs. 120 +/- 16 micrograms spectrin dimer/mg IOV protein, respectively). A different defect is detected in beta thalassemia, in which protein 4.1 shows markedly reduced ability (48 +/- 7% of normal) to enhance the binding of normal spectrin to actin and a decreased ability to bind normal spectrin in a binary interaction, compared with normal protein 4.1 (24 +/- 1 and 43 +/- 1 micrograms protein 4.1/mg spectrin, respectively). As no quantitative deficiency of beta-thalassemic protein 4.1 is detected, we assume an acquired lesion is present, which affects about half of the protein 4.1 molecules. These findings indicate that specific, localized, yet different defects exist in the skeletal proteins of alpha- and beta-thalassemic red cells. The different molecular lesions imply that the mechanism of hemolysis and probably the interaction of unpaired globin chains with the membrane differs in the two diseases. PMID- 2521490 TI - Clearance of atrial natriuretic factor by lung, liver, and kidney in human subjects and the dog. AB - We determined human and canine plasma clearance of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) by lung, liver, and kidney from arteriovenous differences in plasma ANF and measured organ plasma flow. Human subjects had lower plasma ANF concentrations in the pulmonary vein or the pulmonary capillary wedge position when compared with the pulmonary artery, and both sites yielded pulmonary ANF extraction ratios of 24%. Canine lung ANF extraction was 19 +/- 3% and pulmonary ANF clearance was 328 +/- 78 ml/min per m2 vs. 357 +/- 53 ml/min per m2 in man. Hepatic plasma ANF clearance was 216 +/- 26 ml/min with an extraction ratio of 30 +/- 3% in humans and 199 +/- 89 ml/min and 36 +/- 6% in the dog. Renal plasma ANF clearance in human subjects was 78 +/- 12 ml/min per kidney and correlated well with each kidney's creatinine clearance (r = 0.58, P less than 0.05). The mean renal ANF extraction ratio was 35 +/- 4% in human subjects and 42 +/- 6% in the dog. These data quantitate the specific organ ANF clearances by lung, liver, and kidney in human subjects and in dogs and provide a rationale for elevated plasma ANF levels in cirrhosis, renal failure, and diseases accompanied by reduced perfusion of these organs. These findings support the conclusion that plasma ANF concentrations are dependent upon both the stimuli for ANF secretion as well as the specific organ clearances of ANF. PMID- 2521489 TI - Human T cell responses to dengue virus antigens. Proliferative responses and interferon gamma production. AB - The severe complications of dengue virus infections, hemorrhagic manifestations and shock, are more commonly observed during secondary dengue virus infections than during primary infections. It has been speculated that these complications are mediated by cross-reactive host-immune responses. We have begun to analyze human T cell responses to dengue antigens in vitro to explain the possible role of T lymphocytes in the pathogenesis of these complications. Dengue antigens induce proliferative responses of PBMC from dengue antibody-positive donors, but do not induce specific proliferative responses of PBMC from dengue antibody negative donors. IFN gamma is detected in the culture fluids of dengue-immune PBMC stimulated with dengue antigens. The cells that proliferate in the dengue antigen-stimulated bulk cultures have CD3+, CD4+, CD8-, CD16-, and CD20- phenotypes. Dengue-specific T cell lines were established using limiting dilution techniques. They have CD3+, CD4+, and CD8- phenotypes, and produce IFN gamma in response to dengue antigens. Culture fluids from dengue-immune PBMC stimulated with dengue antigens, which contain IFN gamma, augment dengue virus infection of human monocytes by dengue virus-antibody complexes. These results indicate that PBMC from dengue-immune donors contain CD4+ T cells that proliferate and produce IFN gamma after stimulation with dengue antigens, and suggest that the IFN gamma that is produced by these stimulated dengue-specific T cells may contribute to the pathogenesis of dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome by increasing the number of dengue virus-infected monocytes in the presence of cross reactive anti-dengue antibodies. PMID- 2521494 TI - Episodic angioedema with eosinophilia. AB - A 40-year-old woman had monthly episodes of angioedema, eruption of pruritic papules and plaques and fever. During acute episodes white blood cell counts increased to 31,000/mm3 with 75% eosinophils, body weight increased to 10% of baseline weight, and urine excretion decreased to 40 ml/24 hours. No evidence was found for cardiac or other visceral organ involvement. Extensive diagnostic evaluations revealed no evidence for parasitic infestation, connective tissue disease, or neoplastic disorders. Results of immunologic studies revealed increased serum IgM and IgE levels and showed elevated levels of circulating activated T-helper cells. Biopsy specimens of lesional skin showed dermal infiltration of lymphocytes and eosinophils with deposition of eosinophil granule major basic protein in the extracellular matrix within the dermis. Immunophenotyping of the dermal infiltrate with monoclonal antibodies revealed the predominance of T-helper cells, many of them expressing the human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-DR, suggesting that angioedema with eosinophilia may be a T-helper cell-mediated disease. PMID- 2521491 TI - Adherence of neutrophils to cultured human microvascular endothelial cells. Stimulation by chemotactic peptides and lipid mediators and dependence upon the Mac-1, LFA-1, p150,95 glycoprotein family. AB - The process of neutrophil adhesion to and migration through the microvascular endothelium, an early event in the induction of the acute inflammatory response, has been attributed to the generation of extravascular chemoattractants. Although both chemotactic peptides and lipid mediators enhance neutrophil adherence in vitro and in vivo, the mechanism(s) involved in the interaction between circulating neutrophils and microvascular endothelial cells is still not completely understood. In a microtiter well adherence assay, the chemotactic peptides, FMLP and C5a, and the lipid mediators, leukotriene B4 (LTB4) and platelet activating factor (PAF), enhanced human neutrophil adherence to cultured human microvascular endothelial cells as well as to human umbilical vein endothelial cells in a dose-dependent manner with a rapid time course. This stimulated adhesive interaction between neutrophils and cultured human endothelial cells was dependent on the expression of the Mac-1, LFA-1, p150,95 glycoprotein family on the neutrophil surface since neutrophils from patients with leukocyte adhesion deficiency, lacking surface expression of the adhesive glycoproteins, exhibited markedly diminished adherence to human endothelial cells in response to stimulation with chemotactic factors compared to normal control neutrophils. All four mediators enhanced expression of the glycoprotein family on the surface of normal neutrophils as determined by flow cytofluorimetry using a monoclonal antibody (TS1/18) to the glycoprotein common beta subunit. In addition, TS1/18 inhibited up to 100% the adherence of normal neutrophils to endothelial cells stimulated by maximal concentrations of FMLP, C5a, LTB4, or PAF. Moreover, HL-60 cells, human promyelocytic leukemia cells, neither increased glycoprotein surface expression nor adherence in response to stimulation. Thus, peptide and lipid mediators of the acute inflammatory response appear to enhance adherence of circulating neutrophils to the microvascular endothelium by a mechanism dependent on expression of the Mac-1, LFA-1, p150,95 glycoprotein family on the neutrophil surface. PMID- 2521493 TI - Effect of isotretinoin in acne is not mediated by adrenal androgens . PMID- 2521492 TI - Common acute lymphoblastic leukemia antigen expressed on leukemia and melanoma cell lines has neutral endopeptidase activity. AB - We have previously reported that the amino acid sequence of the common acute lymphoblastic leukemia antigen (CALLA, CD10) translated from a normal human kidney cDNA clone is identical to that of neutral endopeptidase (NEP, EC 3.4.24.11). In this study, we show that by flow cytometry, a monoclonal antibody (135A3) produced against rabbit NEP reacted selectively with leukemia and melanoma cell lines expressing CALLA on their surface. A glycoprotein of apparent Mr 100,000 was immunoprecipitated from surface labeled NALM-1 leukemia or Mel 1477 melanoma cells with monoclonal antibodies to NEP (135A3) or CALLA (44C10). mRNAs hybridizing to a NEP-specific probe were present in CALLA+ leukemia and melanoma cell lines, but absent from CALLA- lines. NEP enzymatic activity was detected on intact cells from CALLA+ lines, but not CALLA- lines. The activity was blocked by two selective inhibitors of NEP, thiorphan and phosphoramidon. CALLA antigen purified from the NALM-6 leukemic cell line by affinity to 44C10 IgG Sepharose retained a peptidase activity that was completely blocked by thiorphan and phosphoramidon. Thus the CALLA antigen present at the surface of leukemia and melanoma cell lines is an enzymatically active neutral endopeptidase. PMID- 2521495 TI - An absence of human leukocyte antigen-DR and a decreased expression of beta 2 microglobulin on tumor cells of basal cell carcinoma: no influence on the peritumoral immune infiltrate. AB - The expression of human leukocyte antigen-DR (HLA-DR) and beta 2-microglobulin on the tumor cells and their correlation (if any) to the degree and the composition of the peritumoral mononuclear infiltrate were studied in 37 basal cell carcinomas from 32 patients with an indirect immunoperoxidase technique. In 36 of 37 basal cell carcinomas (97%) there was no expression of HLA-DR on tumor cells of basal cell carcinoma. In 13 of 37 basal cell carcinomas (35%) beta 2 microglobulin was expressed on the tumor cells. Both a diffuse cytoplasmic and a membrane staining were observed in only six of these 13 basal a diffuse cytoplasmic and a membrane staining were observed in only six of these 13 basal cell carcinomas; in the other seven basal cell carcinomas only a diffuse cytoplasmic staining was observed. In all 37 basal cell carcinomas there was membrane staining for beta 2-microglobulin in the normal epidermis. The intensity of staining in the normal epidermis was always stronger than that in the tumor nests. There was a varying degree of peritumoral immune infiltrate in all basal cell carcinomas. It comprised mainly T cells (mean percentage 57 +/- 15). In the group of patients with basal cell carcinoma with moderate to heavy infiltrate the mean percentage of T cells was 63 +/- 13, which was significantly higher than the mean percentage of T cells (46% +/- 14%) in the group of patients with basal cell carcinoma with a mild infiltrate. This difference was mainly the result of an increase in T helper cells.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521496 TI - Oral function in the physically handicapped with or without severe mental retardation. AB - Neuromotor handicaps and mental retardation have been associated with various types of dental malocclusions and oral dysfunction. In this study the specific role of mental status on oral functions was examined. For this, oral function capacity was compared between two groups of physically handicapped children and young adults, one with a physical handicap alone, the other with mental retardation. The latter were found not only to be significantly more motor impaired in general, but also were found to have significantly more deficient oral functions (speech, swallowing and chewing). Mentally retarded also showed significantly more frequent involvement with regard to some other characteristics of oral function and oral conditions, such as lip seal, tongue posture and drooling. As oral dysfunction may cause dental malocclusion, it seems likely that the deviating or immature oral functions in the mentally retarded group may explain earlier observations of a higher prevalence and often more severe malocclusion in these individuals, compared to those who are handicapped. PMID- 2521497 TI - Orthodontic radiographic usage by pediatric dentists. AB - Pediatric educators and practitioners were surveyed to determine the composition of the radiographic examination used to diagnose patient malocclusion; pediatric dentists provide the initial diagnosis for much of the orthodontic service provided to children and adolescents. The initial diagnosis of malocclusion is based on information obtained from a clinical and radiographic examination. Results of the study are based on the 111 pediatric dentists who report providing comprehensive orthodontic treatment. For those who reported providing comprehensive orthodontic therapy, the frequency of ordering each of ten radiographs and the importance of the radiographs to the dentists' diagnosis and treatment plans were measured. The bitewing, lateral cephalometric and panoramic radiographs were the most frequently ordered radiographs for both young and older patients. Radiographic and clinical examinations were judged to be of equal importance to more than fifty percent of the dentists. PMID- 2521498 TI - Hepatitis B is spreading. PMID- 2521499 TI - "Red man syndrome" with vancomycin: report of case. AB - Vancomycin is a recommended alternative prophylactic antibiotic for penicillin allergic patients with prosthetic mitral valves. During the course of recommended treatment, a drug reaction known as "red man syndrome" was encountered. Because vancomycin is appropriate for some dental situations, the general practitioner should be acquainted with its use and possible side effects. PMID- 2521501 TI - Multilesion angioplasty: progress and a plea for proof. PMID- 2521500 TI - Acute occlusion in multiple lesion coronary angioplasty: frequency and management. AB - Among 3,548 patients undergoing a percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty procedure, 714 had multilesion angioplasty (1,550 lesions) in a single session. Acute occlusion occurred in 22 patients (3.1%) and 29 lesions (1.9%). The patients were classified into a group undergoing multivessel angioplasty (348 patients, 785 lesions) and a group undergoing multilesion single vessel angioplasty (366 patients, 765 lesions). The rate of acute occlusion was similar in both patient groups. The multivessel angioplasty group had a 2.9% rate per patient (n = 10) and a 1.7% rate per vessel; the multilesion single vessel group had a 3.3% rate per patient (n = 12) and a 2.1% rate per lesion. Five of the 10 patients from the multivessel group with acute occlusion, but only 1 of the 12 patients with occlusion in the single vessel multilesion group, required emergency open heart surgery. No patient in either group died as a consequence of coronary angioplasty. Occlusion occurred during angioplasty in 15 of the 22 patients, and 1 to 24 h after angioplasty in 7 of 22 patients. In the group with multivessel angioplasty, acute occlusion during the procedure was mainly linked with hypotension during the second vessel dilation, whereas in this group with delayed vessel closure and in the multilesion single vessel group, existence of intimal tearing constituted the most important factor for acute occlusion (12 of 16 patients). Closure of vessel per major coronary system was evenly distributed in the multivessel group, whereas significantly more left circumflex vessels closed in the single vessel multilesion group (6.1% versus 1.3% in the left anterior descending coronary artery and 1.1% in the right coronary artery; p less than 0.02).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521503 TI - Determinants of collateral filling observed during sudden controlled coronary artery occlusion in human subjects. AB - Higher grades of collateral circulation limit the extent of myocardial ischemia observed during balloon inflation in patients with single vessel coronary disease undergoing coronary angioplasty. However, the grade of collateral filling during sudden coronary occlusion varies from patient to patient. To assess which characteristics may predict a high grade of collateral filling, baseline clinical and angiographic variables were correlated with the grade of filling during coronary occlusion in 67 patients (whose angina ranged from 1 week to 36 months in duration) undergoing left anterior descending or right coronary artery angioplasty. A second contralateral arterial catheter was used to assess the collateral filling that reached the vessel dilated before and during transient total occlusion by the angioplasty balloon. Thirty-six patients had a proximal stenotic lesion ranging in severity from 65 to 99%. On a 0 to 3 scale, mean collateral filling grade before inflation was 0.4 versus 1.8 during inflation (p = 0.001). All 19 patients with 95 to 99% stenosis had at least grade 2 collateral filling during inflation. In contrast, 18 of 21 patients with less than or equal to 80% stenosis had only grade 0 or 1 collateral filling during inflation. There were significant positive correlations between collateral grade during inflation and 1) baseline lesion severity (r = 0.76), 2) baseline collateral filling grade (r = 0.50), and 3) vessel dilated. There was no relation between collateral filling during inflation and age, gender, risk factors, duration of angina or proximal versus distal location of the lesion. Lesion severity was the only independent variable associated with collateral filling grade.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521502 TI - Repeat coronary angioplasty: efficacy of a third angioplasty for a second restenosis. AB - To determine the efficacy of repeat percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty, 74 patients were studied who underwent a third angioplasty for a second restenosis of one coronary artery segment. The procedure was successful in 93% of patients. Procedural complications included emergency bypass surgery (three patients) and in-hospital death (two patients). At late follow-up (mean 18 months, range 7 to 49), 30 patients (43%) had a third restenosis treated with either a fourth angioplasty (16 patients), coronary bypass surgery (11 patients) or medical management (1 patient). Thirty-nine patients (57%) had no restenosis on the basis of follow-up angiography or absence of symptoms previously attributed to restenosis. Factors associated with a third restenosis included a shorter time interval (less than 3 months) between previous angioplasty procedures and dilation of the left anterior descending coronary artery. Among the 16 patients undergoing a fourth angioplasty for a third restenosis, the procedural success rate was 94%. One patient required emergency bypass surgery. At late follow-up (mean 16 months, range 7 to 38), eight patients (53%) had a fourth restenosis treated with either a fifth angioplasty (one patient), bypass surgery (five patients) or medical management (two patients). Considering all 74 patients undergoing a third angioplasty for a second restenosis, 27% had bypass surgery, 5% died, 4% were managed medically and 64% were free of angina at late follow-up after either a third, fourth or fifth angioplasty. Restenosis rates after a third or fourth angioplasty procedure for recurrent restenosis are higher than those for the initial procedures.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521504 TI - Patterns of left ventricular dilation during the six months after myocardial infarction. AB - Changes in left ventricular volume after a first myocardial infarction were studied in 50 patients. Serial radionuclide angiograms were obtained 48 h, 10 days and 1 and 6 months after infarction and left ventricular volume measured by a nongeometric method. Left ventricular dilation (greater than or equal to 20% increase in end-diastolic volume) occurred within 10 days of infarction in 11 patients, who had a mean volume increase of 34 +/- 15% (p = 0.002 versus 48 h) at 10 days and 61 +/- 43% (p = 0.01 versus 10 days) at 6 months. Ten other patients manifested left ventricular dilation between 10 days and 6 months with a lesser volume increase of 42 +/- 18% by 6 months. Among the 21 patients with ventricular dilation, progressive dilation (serial volume increases greater than or equal to 20% on two or more occasions) occurred in 8 patients, who all had a large anterior infarct. Mean volume increases at 10 days and 1 and 6 months were 27 +/- 20%, 49 +/- 40% (p = 0.03 versus 10 days) and 79 +/- 37% (p = 0.006 versus 1 month), respectively, in this group. In patients with progressive dilation, left ventricular ejection fraction decreased from 35 +/- 6% at 48 h to 24 +/- 10% at 1 month (p less than 0.001) and 27 +/- 10% (p = 0.006) at 6 months. Between 1 month and 2 years after infarction six patients died, of whom four had progressive dilation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521505 TI - New percutaneous transluminal coronary angioscope. AB - A new percutaneous transluminal coronary angioscopic catheter has been developed for visualization of the coronary artery. A specially made balloon, fixed at the catheter tip, and an angulation mechanism made a precise coaxial alignment possible in the coronary lumen. This angioscopic catheter, 1.22 mm in outer diameter, has four channels, one for irrigation in which a 0.36 mm (0.014 in.) angioplasty guide wire can be used. With the use of this angioscope, coronary lumens in 8 dogs, thrombi that were produced with copper coils in the left anterior descending coronary artery in 11 dogs, atherosclerotic coronary arteries in 20 patients during cardiac catheterization and the sequence of transluminal coronary angioplasty in 1 patient were observed. The angioscopic catheter was introduced into the coronary artery by an 8F guide catheter. The steerable guide wire enabled the angioscopic catheter to be accurately and safely inserted into the target lesion in all cases. The inflated balloon and angulation mechanism allowed a curved coronary lumen and atheroma to be seen with a limited volume of irrigation fluid. Visualization was good (complete visualization of the inner lumen) in 46% (10 of 22 lesions), moderate (visualization of greater than 50% of the inner lumen) in 36% (8 of 22 lesions) and poor (visualization of less than 50% of the inner lumen) in 18% (4 of 22 lesions) in humans. There were no major complications. These preliminary experiences in closed chest cardiac catheterization in dogs and in humans indicate the feasibility of this angioscope. The information yielded by angioscopy may be clinically useful in the study of the pathophysiologic changes in coronary disease that are not detected by coronary arteriography. PMID- 2521507 TI - Effects of in vivo administration of anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody on T cell function in mice. II. In vivo activation of T cells. AB - Anti-CD3 mAb are known to be both immunosuppressive and mitogenic to T cells in vitro. However, only immunosuppression has been observed after in vivo administration of these mAb. The present study demonstrates that T cell activation does occur after in vivo administration of anti-CD3 mAb to mice, evidenced by increased IL-2R expression on T cells, CSF secretion, and extra medullary hematopoiesis in the spleen. These effects required multivalent cross linking of the mAb, since F(ab')2 fragments failed to induce them. However, the F(ab')2 fragments did induce modulation of CD3/TCR from the surface of T cells, demonstrating that TCR modulation is not sufficient to induce activation. In addition, interaction of the TCR with either intact or F(ab')2 fragments of the mAb led to increased expression of CD8 in vivo, suggesting that the F(ab')2 fragments of anti-CD3 mAb might be capable of inducing a T cell to undergo some, but not all, of the changes involved in reaching a fully activated state. Further study of the activating effects of anti-CD3 mAb might increase the understanding of the mechanisms of in vivo T cell activation and might also be exploited clinically to stimulate T cell function in immunocompromised states and to enhance hematopoiesis in myelodysplastic disorders. PMID- 2521506 TI - Alterations in diastolic function in response to progressive left ventricular hypertrophy. AB - To examine the time course of the functional consequences of progressive left ventricular hypertrophy, diastolic left ventricular inflow and wall thinning variables were analyzed in 13 dogs before and 2, 4, 8 and 12 weeks after creation of perinephritic hypertension. Left ventricular echocardiograms were digitized for dimensions, mass and peak rates of wall thinning (-dh/dt/h) and cavity enlargement (dD/dt/D). Doppler recordings of left ventricular inflow were analyzed for peak early (E) and late (A) diastolic inflow velocities, their ratio and atrial filling fraction. At 2 weeks, systolic blood pressure increased from 151 to 233 mm Hg, wall stress from 52 to 80 kdynes/cm2 and posterior wall thickness from 0.68 to 0.84 cm (all p less than 0.05). Left ventricular mass increased from 90 to 115 g over 12 weeks (p less than 0.05). Heart rate, cavity size and systolic shortening were unchanged at all data points. Diastolic abnormalities accompanied the developing hypertrophy and included impairment of early function, as demonstrated by a peak rate of wall thinning, from -13.4 to 8.9 l/s at 2 weeks (p less than 0.05), increased dependence on atrial systolic filling, a decrease in E/A from 1.68 to 1.29 at 4 weeks (p less than 0.05) and an increase in atrial filling fraction from 30% to 43% at 8 weeks (p = NS). Thus, diastolic dysfunction is an early consequence of experimental left ventricular hypertrophy. Different aspects of diastolic impairment are sensitively reflected by echocardiographic Doppler recordings, suggesting that these methods should be useful for the detection of diastolic dysfunction in human patients. PMID- 2521508 TI - Evidence that T cell activation is required for HIV-1 entry in CD4+ lymphocytes. AB - The relationship of T cell activation to HIV entry and generation of viral DNA intermediates was studied in freshly isolated CD4+ T lymphocytes. Unstimulated cells exposed to infectious virus for up to 48 h did not synthesize any detectable unintegrated HIV DNA duplex forms or integrated genomic provirus. However, activation of these cells with either PHA or OKT3 (anti-CD3) mAb before viral exposure resulted in the generation of unintegrated HIV DNA after 6 h and integrated copies after 24 h. Cell-to-cell fusion studies showed significantly attenuated fusion between freshly isolated resting T cells and T cells constitutively expressing high levels of HIV envelope glycoprotein (HXB/gpt) compared with T cells first stimulated with either PHA or OKT3 mAb. The baseline fusion observed with resting T cells is believed to be a consequence of allogeneic stimulation by the HXB/gpt cell line. These results provide evidence that HIV entry and HIV envelope-dependent cell-to-cell fusion require T cell activation. PMID- 2521509 TI - Prostaglandin E2-dependent induction of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor secretion by cloned murine helper T cells. AB - PG are known to inhibit T cell proliferation, at least in part by suppressing IL 2 production, but effects of PG on the production of other lymphokines have not been well studied. We have found that PGE2 and PGE1, but not PGF2 alpha, inhibit both proliferation and production of granulocyte-macrophage (GM)-CSF by murine TH clones stimulated with Ag or anti-CD3 antibody. Thus, signals generated via the Ag receptor:CD3 complex were inhibited by PGE. Most interesting, however, was the finding that PGE2 and PGE1 could act synergistically with IL-2 for the induction of GM-CSF in some TH1 clones. Dependence on PGE2 for this response was not found in all clones, as some TH1 cells could produce GM-CSF after IL-2 alone, and some cells did not produce GM-CSF even in the presence of PGE2 and IL-2. These observations indicate that there is a subset of TH1 cells receptive to a stimulating activity of PGE2 in the presence of IL-2. PGE2 is known to elevate cAMP levels in T cells. Therefore, we tested whether other agents known to increase cAMP, such as forskolin and cholera toxin, could act in conjunction with IL-2 to induce GM-CSF secretion. As was found with PGE2, these compounds also induced GM-CSF activity in the presence of IL-2, suggesting a critical role for cAMP in this process. Overall these data indicate that the requirements for activation of GM-CSF secretion vary among individual T cells. Most importantly they provide the first evidence that E-series PG are positive signals for lymphokine induction in certain T cells, whereas simultaneously acting as negative signals limiting proliferation. This result also suggests that treatment with anti-inflammatory drugs that decrease PGE2 concentrations may inhibit lymphokine secretion normally stimulated by this pathway. PMID- 2521510 TI - Cellular and biochemical responses of human T lymphocytes stimulated with streptococcal M proteins. AB - Purified group A streptococcal M proteins, pep M5 and pep M6, bearing heart cross reactive epitopes were compared with pep M24, which lacks such epitopes, in their ability to induce functional differentiation of human T lymphocytes. Lymphocytes activated by pep M5 and pep M6 demonstrated cytotoxic activity against cultured heart cells, whereas pep M24-activated cells differentiated into suppressor T cells, which specifically blocked cytotoxic T lymphocytes against cultured human myocardial cells and not NK cell activity against K562 cells. Pep M5 and not pep M24 induced an increase in the number of CD4, 4B4, helper/inducer T cells. In addition, these M proteins appear to induce different biochemical changes in T lymphocytes. Both pep M5 and pep M24 induced the phosphorylation of a 35-kDa cytoplasmic protein; however, only pep M5 induced the phosphorylation of a 28-kDa membrane protein, primarily in CD4 T cells. These data indicate that the virulent M protein Ag of group A streptococci may exert their effect on the human immune system via different mechanisms. Determining these mechanisms and the biochemical pathways involved in T cell differentiation triggered by these Ag may be important in understanding the pathogenesis of post-streptococcal diseases. PMID- 2521511 TI - Priming of D1-dopamine receptor responses: long-lasting behavioral supersensitivity to a D1-dopamine agonist following repeated administration to neonatal 6-OHDA-lesioned rats. AB - The present study demonstrates that repeated administration of SKF-38393, a D1 dopamine agonist, is necessary for maximal behavioral supersensitivity of D1 dopamine receptor responses in neonatal 6-OHDA-lesioned rats, confirming earlier work. This repeated administration of SKF-38393, which is referred to as priming of D1-dopamine receptor responses, resulted in a progressive increase in locomotor activity, as well as several other behaviors. This priming phenomenon lasted at least 6 months. Repeated administration of the D2-dopamine agonist LY 171555 also increased behavioral responses to the D1-dopamine agonist. However, previous administration of a D2-dopamine agonist was not necessary for priming of D1-dopamine receptor responses, because D1-dopamine receptor priming could be produced in the presence of a D2-dopamine receptor antagonist. Blockade of D1 dopamine receptors with SCH-23390 prior to injection of SKF-38393 prevented the increasing responsiveness following repeated administration of this D1-dopamine agonist. Selective neonatal destruction of dopamine-containing neurons produced the same result as did destruction of catecholamine-containing neurons, indicating that the noradrenergic system is not involved in this phenomenon. Priming of D1-dopamine receptor responses by repeated administration of SKF-38393 was not observed in unlesioned controls or in rats that received catecholamine depleting lesions as adults. Repeated administration of scopolamine also was able to prime behavioral responses to SKF-38393 in neonatal 6-OHDA-lesioned rats, indicating that endogenous release of dopamine can prime D1-dopamine receptor responses in neonatally lesioned rats. In addition, responses to indirect-acting agonists were enhanced in rats that had been primed with a D1-dopamine agonist when compared wit responses in unprimed animals.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521512 TI - Retrieval of loose peritoneal shunts by laparoscopy. Technical note. AB - Disconnected shunt catheters free in the peritoneal cavity can be easily removed by laparoscopy with minimal opening of the peritoneum. Experience with five such cases is summarized. PMID- 2521513 TI - Comparison of the 5-HT3 receptor antagonist properties of ICS 205-930, GR38032F and zacopride. AB - The well-documented 5-HT3 receptor antagonists, ICS 205-930 and GR38032F, have been compared with regard to their inhibitory activity at 5-HT3 receptors to another gastrokinetic agent, zacopride. Zacopride and ICS 205-930 showed similar affinity (-log kB approximately 8.0), whereas GR38032F showed lower affinity ( log ka approximately 7.0) at 5-HT3 receptors in the guinea pig ileum. After i.v. administration to anesthetized rats, zacopride was approximately 10-fold more potent than either ICS 205-930 or GR38032F, which were equipotent as inhibitors of serotonin-induced bradycardia (5-HT3-mediated activation of the von Bezold Jarisch reflex). After oral administration to anesthetized rats, zacopride remained approximately 10-fold more potent than ICS 205-903, which was approximately 2-fold more potent than GR38032F as an inhibitor of serotonin induced bradycardia. Furthermore, the inhibitory effectiveness of GR38032F persisted for less than 3 hr after oral administration and for less than 15 min after intravenous administration. ICS 205-930 produced maximal inhibition of serotonin-induced bradycardia for over 3 hr with heart rate returning to control values 6 hr after oral administration. Zacopride possessed the longest duration of inhibitory effectiveness in urethane-anesthetized rats with maximal inhibition still apparent 6 hr after oral administration. All three agents inhibited cisplatin-induced emesis after i.v. administration in dogs with zacopride being 10-fold more potent than ICS 205-930 or GR38032F, which were equipotent. These comparative data with three 5-HT3 receptor antagonists indicate that in animals, zacopride was more potent and longer acting than either ICS 205-930 or GR38032F. Furthermore, after oral administration to rats, GR38032F was slightly less potent than ICS 205-930 and possessed the shortest duration of action. PMID- 2521514 TI - Effect of acute or chronic administration of imipramine on spinal and supraspinal micturition reflexes in rats. AB - Acute imipramine administration (15 mg/kg i.p. 60 min before) increased the threshold for activating the spinal but not the supraspinal vesico-vesical micturition reflex in urethane-anesthetized rats. On the other hand, "chronic" imipramine administration (15 mg/kg i.p./day for 5 consecutive days) increased selectively the threshold of the supraspinal micturition reflex. Intravenous administration of cumulative doses of imipramine (up to 14 mg/kg) exerted a progressive inhibitory effect on the supraspinal reflex and voiding efficiency, possibly related to direct inhibition of muscular contractility at the bladder level. However, with the dose regimen used to compare the action of imipramine on spinal and supraspinal reflexes (15 mg/kg i.p., 60 min before), imipramine did not affect the volume-pressure curve or myogenic activity in decentralized bladders (bilateral removal of pelvic ganglia). The effect of acute imipramine on threshold of the spinal vesico-vesical reflex was absent in rats receiving oral p chlorophenylalanine to deplete 5-hydroxytryptamine stores in the central nervous system. On the other hand, p-chlorophenylalanine pretreatment did not prevent the action of chronic imipramine administration on the supraspinal reflex. Acute administration of desipramine, the major metabolite of imipramine, increased threshold of the spinal but not supraspinal micturition reflex. These findings indicate that the ability of imipramine to modulate vesico-urethral motility at the central nervous system level may involve different mechanisms. Inhibition of 5-hydroxytryptamine reuptake in nerve terminals may be important for the acute modulatory effect of imipramine on the spinal reflex. PMID- 2521515 TI - Effects of buspirone and its metabolite, 1-(2-pyrimidinyl)piperazine, on brain monoamines and their metabolites in rats. AB - Buspirone, an anxiolytic drug with selective affinity for the 5-HT-1A subtype of serotonin receptors, caused a dose-related decrease in 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid (5-HIAA) concentration in rat hypothalamus after doses of 1 to 10 mg/kg s.c. The decrease in 5-HIAA concentration after a 3 mg/kg s.c. dose of buspirone persisted at 4 hr but not at 7 hr. The decrease was due apparently to a reduced turnover of serotonin; the accumulation of 5-hydroxytryptophan after decarboxylase inhibition was also suppressed by buspirone, not only in hypothalamus but also in brain stem, hippocampus and striatum. 1-(2-Pyrimidinyl) piperazine (1-PP), a major metabolite of buspirone, did not affect hypothalamic 5 HIAA concentration at doses up to 10 mg/kg s.c. Both buspirone and 1-PP increased hypothalamic concentrations of 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylethyleneglycol (MHPG) sulfate, the norepinephrine metabolite, the effect being more pronounced with 1 PP but occurring after doses as low as 0.3 mg/kg s.c. with each compound. The increase in MHPG sulfate concentration persisted for at least 4 hr after a 3 mg/kg s.c. dose of each compound. The increase in MHPG sulfate produced by buspirone may have been due partly to 5-HT-1A receptor activation, inasmuch as other serotonin agonists have been found to cause a similar increase. 1-PP is reported to lack affinity for 5-HT-1A receptors so its elevation of MHPG sulfate concentration may have resulted from alpha-2 receptor blockade. The increase in MHPG sulfate concentration after buspirone injection may have been due at least partly to formation of the metabolite, 1-PP.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521517 TI - Spermexatin and spermexatol: new synthetic spermidine-based siderophore analogues. AB - Syntheses of hexanediamine-based dihydroxamate (Hexamate), spermidine-based trihydroxamate (Spermexatins), and spermidine-based mixed siderophore analogues (Spermexatols) are described. Key intermediates include the N-hydroxysuccinimide esters of various hydroxamic acids, e.g., malonohydroxamate, succinohydroxamate, and glutarohydroxamate. These intermediates were synthesized, characterized, and incorporated as the ligating chains on spermidine. Also, mixed iron chelating compounds (Spermexatols) with both catechol and hydroxamic acid side chains were synthesized. The reagent carbobenzoxyimidazole was employed to distinguish between the primary and secondary amino groups of spermidine. The ability of these iron chelators to stimulate microbial growth is also described. PMID- 2521516 TI - Deaminoteicoplanin and its derivatives. Synthesis, antibacterial activity, and binding strength to Ac-D-Ala-D-Ala. AB - Teicoplanin and its acid hydrolysis products were deaminated with hydroxylamine-O sulfonic acid (HOS). A few amides of these deaminoteicoplanins were also prepared. The loss of the terminal amino group reduces in vitro activity against staphylococcal and streptococcal bacteria to one-half to one-third, while binding strength to Ac-D-Ala-D-Ala, measured by differential UV spectroscopy, is reduced to one-tenth that of teicoplanin. The in vitro activity is further reduced by the presence of serum, and this is attributable to the increased lipophilicity and total negative charge of the deamino compounds. Comparison of UV spectra of deaminoteicoplanins with those of parent compounds made it possible to single out the most acid phenol group of teicoplanin aglycon (OH-4; pK = 8.2). PMID- 2521518 TI - Synthesis and antiviral activity of phosphonoacetic and phosphonoformic acid esters of 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine and related pyrimidine nucleosides and acyclonucleosides. AB - Phosphonoacetic acid (PAA, 1) was coupled with various acyclonucleosides, 2' deoxyuridines, cytidines, and arabinosyluracils, with 2,4,6 triisopropylbenzenesulfonyl chloride (TPS) or dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCCI) as condensing agents, to give a range of phosphonate esters. The carboxylic ester linkage of PAA to the 5'-position of 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BUdR, 3) was achieved via the mixed anhydride formed from (diethylphosphono)acetic acid and trifluoroacetic anhydride. Phosphonoformic acid (PFA, 2) was coupled with BUdR by using the DCCI method to give the phosphonate ester. Of these compounds only phosphonate esters in the 2'-deoxyuridine series showed significant activity against herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2. The BUdR-PAA derivative and the BUdR PFA derivative were highly active, especially the latter, which was more active than the parent nucleoside BUdR against the type 2 virus. The active compounds may exert their effects by extracellular or intracellular hydrolysis to the corresponding antiviral agents, but an intrinsic component of antiviral activity may also be involved. PMID- 2521519 TI - Structure-activity relationships of novel vasopressin antagonists containing C terminal diaminoalkanes and (aminoalkyl)guanidines. AB - We report the synthesis and biological activity of a series of analogues of the vasopressin antagonists [Pmp1,D-Tyr(Et)2,Val4]arginine-vasopressin (1) and [Pmp1,D-Tyr(Et)2,Val4,desGly9]arginine-vasopressin (2), where part or all of the tripeptide tail has been replaced by a simple alkyldiamine [NH(CH2)nNH2] or (aminoalkyl)guanidine [NH(CH2)nNHC(= NH)NH2] in order to examine the effects that variation of the length and orientation of the tripeptide tail have on renal vasopressin (V2) receptor antagonist activity. The results show that the entire tripeptide tail (Pro-Arg-Gly-NH2) can be replaced by an alkyldiamine or an (aminoalkyl)guanidine, compounds 15 and 16, respectively, indicating that there is no orientational requirement for the basic functional group coming off the cyclic hexapeptide ring. Also, there seems to be an "optimal" distance between the basic functional group and the hexapeptide ring since receptor affinity of the antagonists begins to fall off when the basic functional group is too close (compound 13) or extends too far (compounds 8-10) from the hexapeptide ring. These results suggest all that is necessary for retention of antagonist affinity and potency is a basic functional group, amine or guanidine, extended an optimal distance from the hexapeptide ring. PMID- 2521520 TI - Cross-resistance to the lipid-soluble antifolate trimetrexate in human carcinoma cells with the multidrug-resistant phenotype. AB - We are studying mechanisms of resistance to hydrophilic and lipophilic antifolates in cultured mammalian cells. We determined the cytotoxicity of methotrexate and the lipid-soluble antifolate trimetrexate to various human carcinoma cells and their doxorubicin-resistant sublines. These multidrug resistant cells were 17-fold to 26-fold more resistant to trimetrexate but as sensitive to methotrexate as their parental cells. Verapamil and quinidine, which are known to modulate the degree of pleiotropic drug resistance, reversed the cross-resistance to trimetrexate but did not alter methotrexate toxicity in multidrug-resistant cells. By flow cytometry, we show that multidrug-resistant Chinese hamster ovary cells retained eightfold more fluorescein-methotrexate bound to dihydrofolate reductase upon competition with trimetrexate than the drug sensitive cells did. However, methotrexate displaced fluorescein-methotrexate equally well in sensitive and multidrug-resistant cells. Furthermore, verapamil produced dose-dependent displacement of fluorescein-methotrexate from the multidrug-resistant cells in the presence of low concentrations of trimetrexate but had no significant effect on displacement of fluorescein-methotrexate from sensitive cells. Hamster cells that overproduce dihydrofolate reductase by 93 fold were 145-fold and 96-fold more resistant to methotrexate and trimetrexate, respectively, than their sensitive parental cells. This form of antifolate resistance was not altered by verapamil or quinidine. We conclude that the cross resistance to trimetrexate in cells that do not overproduce dihydrofolate reductase is associated with the multidrug-resistant phenotype. Possible implications of trimetrexate resistance in cancer chemotherapy are discussed. PMID- 2521521 TI - Leads from the MMWR. Preliminary report: 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin exposure to humans--Seveso, Italy. PMID- 2521522 TI - Average daily blood pressure, not office blood pressure, determines cardiac function in patients with hypertension. AB - To determine the presence of cardiac disease in hypertensive patients with disparities between physician and out-of-office blood pressures, we prospectively studied three groups of age-matched patients identified by both casual (office) and ambulatory blood pressures: (1) office blood pressure greater than 140/90 mm Hg and awake ambulatory blood pressure of 130/80 mm Hg or less ("office" hypertensives); (2) office blood pressure less than 135/85 mm Hg and awake ambulatory blood pressure of 130/80 mm Hg or less (normotensives); and (3) office blood pressure greater than 140/90 mm Hg and awake ambulatory blood pressure of 140/90 mm Hg or greater ("daytime" hypertensives). In the patients with office hypertension, both the left atrial index and left ventricular mass index were significantly less than in patients with daytime hypertension and not statistically different from those of the normotensive subjects. Left ventricular filling rate at rest and ejection fraction at peak exercise were significantly greater in the office hypertensive group than in the daytime hypertensive group but were no different from those of the normotensive subjects. These findings demonstrate that patients with blood pressure elevation only in the physician's office have cardiac size and function similar to those of normotensive individuals. Thus, the average daily blood pressure best predicts cardiac end organ damage. PMID- 2521524 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide in man. AB - The heart is the major source of atrial natriuretic peptides (ANP). A propeptide is stored in atrial myocytes. In normal humans, atrial distension secondary to volume overload and/or increased atrial pressures are thought to stimulate the secretion of biologically active alpha-ANP (ANF-[99-126], 28 amino residues) into the circulation. Plasma immunoreactive ANP (irANP) rises in response to acute sodium-volume loading, the central shift of volume produced by lying down or by immersion, acute increases in blood pressure (BP), dynamic exercise, or the administration of glucocorticoids or mineralocorticoids. Plasma irANP also rises with aging. Synthetic alpha-ANP infused acutely i.v. can lower BP, reduce plasma volume by an extravascular shift, cause baroreflex-mediated sympathetic activation, directly inhibit adrenal steroidogenesis and lower plasma aldosterone and cortisol, directly inhibit renal renin release, elevate plasma insulin; diuresis, free water clearance and natriuresis increase already in response to low alpha-ANP doses that raise plasma irANP within the physiological-pathological range. It follows that in addition to direct influences on cardiovascular and renal function, the ANP system may comprise a cardio-adrenal feedback mechanism and perhaps also modulate insulin and the release of ADH. The major although yet unproven physiological role of the ANP system may be the protection of the heart against volume and/or pressure overload. The pathophysiological, diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of elevated plasma irANP values, ANP measurements, or administration of synthetic ANP, respectively, in various diseases are currently under intense study and of great potential interest. PMID- 2521523 TI - Long-term alterations on the male mouse genital tract associated with neonatal exposure to cyproterone acetate biochemical data. AB - The effects of neonatal administration of cyproterone acetate on the growth, hormone responsiveness, DNA and protein concentrations, protein profiles, protein synthetic patterns and nuclear androgen binding sites of epididymis, vas deferens and seminal vesicles were investigated in adult mice. The weight of epididymis and seminal vesicle was significantly depressed and the reductions observed were secondary to cellular hypoplasia in epididymis and to cellular hypotrophy in seminal vesicle. The 3 organs studied showed a limited response to exogenous androgens at adulthood. When assessed by the number of cells the response of the 3 organs was similar to that of controls but it was significantly reduced from 25 to 35% when measured in term of cellular concentration of proteins. The protein profiles from homogenates of whole organs and the protein synthetic patterns after [35S]methionine incorporation, analyzed by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, showed reproducible persistent alterations. The total number of nuclear androgen binding sites was significantly reduced in seminal vesicles. PMID- 2521525 TI - Diphosphonates inhibit human osteoblast secretion and proliferation. AB - In view of the beneficial effect of diphosphonates in Paget's disease and their suppressive effect on alkaline phosphatase, the action of three diphosphonates (aminohydroxypropylidene diphosphonate [APD], clodronate, and didronel) on cultured human osteoblasts in vitro was investigated. All three inhibited basal and 1,25(OH)2 cholecalciferol-stimulated alkaline phosphatase secretion and [3H]thymidine uptake by osteoblasts. It is concluded that diphosphonates consistently inhibit human osteoblasts through a direct action in addition to their known effect on inhibiting bone resorption and that these actions together may form the basis of their beneficial effect in vivo in patients with Paget's disease. PMID- 2521526 TI - Reduction in coronary restenosis with n-3 fatty acids. PMID- 2521527 TI - The safety and immunogenicity of a recombinant hepatitis B vaccine in neonates. AB - A study to evaluate the safety and immunogenicity of a yeast derived recombinant DNA hepatitis B vaccine (Engerix-B) was conducted in healthy newborn infants born to low risk European mothers negative for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). The vaccination schedule using 20 micrograms doses was administered intramuscularly at 0, 1 and 6 months. The seroconversion rate was 99% (90 of 91 infants). The geometric mean titer of antibody to hepatitis B was 1259 mIU/mL one month after the third dose of vaccine. Possible side effects reported by the mothers were minor and uncommon. This vaccine is highly immunogenic and safe for use in infants. PMID- 2521528 TI - The school achievement of children with Down's syndrome. AB - The academic achievement of nine children with Down's syndrome who had participated in a systematic early intervention programme between the ages of two and five years was compared with the achievement of all other children with Down's syndrome of the same age in Auckland schools (n = 12). The children were between nine years six months and eleven years six months at the time of assessment. Results showed the first group to be significantly more advanced in reading and moderately more advanced in reading and moderately more advanced in numerical skills than the others. PMID- 2521529 TI - Saccharin-induced skin rashes. PMID- 2521530 TI - Dialogue on the sacroiliac joint. PMID- 2521531 TI - Reliability of clinical measurements of lumbar lordosis taken with a flexible rule. AB - The purpose of this study was to examine the intratester and intertester reliability of lumbar lordosis measurements taken with a flexible rule. Two physical therapists (Tester 1 and Tester 2) took measurements on 40 subjects without low back pain (LBP) and on 40 subjects with LBP. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were used to determine the degree of agreement between repeated measurements taken by the same therapist and between measurements taken by the two therapists. The ICC values for intratester reliability of Tester 1 were .84 for subjects without LBP and .94 for subjects with LBP. The ICC values of Tester 2 were .73 for subjects without LBP and .83 for subjects with LBP. Intertester reliability generally was poor, with ICC values of .41 for subjects without LBP and .50 for subjects with LBP. The results suggest that measurements of lumbar lordosis with a flexible rule may be reliable if taken by the same physical therapist. The degree of reliability, however, may vary from therapist to therapist. The intertester reliability of these measurements appears to be poor, but these conclusions must be interpreted carefully because of the limited number of therapists participating in this study. PMID- 2521532 TI - [Selective effect of personality markers and psychosocial stress on T lymphocyte subpopulations]. AB - Measurements were made of cellular immune system parameters in a group of healthy medical students. On the basis of psychosocial stress encountered during a five day topic-centered self-awareness course, we investigated modulation in immunity in relation to personality characteristics. 6 days before the beginning of the seminar personality profiles were drawn and blood samples taken. Further immunological measurements were made on day four of the seminar and three weeks after its conclusion. On the fourth day of the seminar we observed throughout the group higher lymphocyte and suppressor/cytotoxic T lymphocyte counts in comparison with counts one week earlier, and likewise a heightened responsiveness to PHA- and IL-2 stimulation. The T lymphocyte counts had dropped. In subjects with a higher need for succorance/nurturance, the depression of the immune system was manifested in a drop in the helper/inducer T lymphocyte counts, and in the more achievement- and order-oriented subjects in a downregulation as observed by higher suppressor/cytotoxic T lymphocyte counts. Our results show that under psychosocial stress, healthy people experience on the one hand an activation of the immune system, and on the other hand an immunodepression bearing a specific relation to personality characteristics. PMID- 2521533 TI - Heritable hypersensitivity to induced mutagenesis in the progeny of cell populations exposed to UVC (254 nm). AB - The ability of mutagens to transform benign papillomas to malignancy in the mouse skin model of multistage carcinogenesis [Hennings et al. Nature 303, 67-68 (1983)] suggests that multiple events may underlie carcinogenic progression, and that mutagenic exposures separated by time can act synergistically. Such synergism may result from initial mutagenic exposure which induces heritable sensitivity to subsequent mutagenic exposures. For example, progeny of X irradiated V79 cells are hypersensitive to subsequent mutation induced by psoralen plus long-wave ultraviolet light, PUVA [Frank and Williams, Science 216, 307-308 (1982)]. In the present studies 100 to 200 surviving clones of short-wave ultraviolet light (UVC) irradiated V79 cells were assayed for mutation at two loci. Cultures derived from these cells were found to be hypermutable at the hypoxanthine guanine phosphoribosyl transferase (HGPRT) locus following exposure to PUVA, but showed mutant frequencies similar to control cells following UVC challenge at the HGPRT and ATPase loci. PMID- 2521535 TI - Surgical treatment of isthmic lumbosacral spondylolisthesis. Analysis of variables influencing results. AB - Fifty consecutive patients underwent standardized surgical treatment for isthmic lumbosacral spondylolisthesis. Twenty-two (44%) had mechanical symptoms only and were treated with in situ fusion. Twenty-eight (56%) had back and radicular symptoms and underwent decompression and fusion. Follow-up averaged 40.4 months. Satisfactory results were achieved in 30 (60%). Patients under 30 and over 50 appeared to do better. Success rate was not related to degree of slippage. Success rate in compensation cases was 39%, versus 83% in non-compensation cases (P less than 0.001); males, 53%, versus females, 78% (0.05 less than P less than 0.1); back pain only, 73%, versus radiculopathy, 50% (0.05 less than P less than 0.1); smokers, 48%, versus nonsmokers, 74% (0.05 less than P less than 0.1). Pseudoarthrosis rate was 12%, and this correlated with failure (P less than 0.002). Thus, a trend towards an unsatisfactory outcome was seen in males, middle aged individuals, those with a smoking habit, and patients with radicular symptoms. A compensable work situation and pseudoarthrosis had a profoundly negative influence on outcome. PMID- 2521534 TI - Age and dose related alteration of in vitro mixed lymphocyte culture response of blood lymphocytes from A-bomb survivors. AB - The responsiveness of peripheral blood lymphocytes to allogenic antigens in mixed lymphocyte culture (MLC) was measured in 139 atomic-bomb survivors. The study revealed a significant decrease in MLC response with increasing dose of previous radiation exposure. This decline was marked in the survivors who were older than 15 at the time of the bomb (ATB). The results suggest a possible relationship between the recovery of T-cell-related function and the thymic function which processes mature T cells for the immune system. Thus it may be that in the advanced age ATB group, the thymus function had started to involute, allowing less recovery of T-cell function compared to young survivors who had adequate processing T-cell activity. PMID- 2521536 TI - Incidence and predictors of early recurrent ischemia after successful percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty for acute myocardial infarction. AB - Two hundred forty consecutive patients with acute myocardial infarction treated within 48 hours by successful percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) were analyzed to determine the incidence and predictors of recurrent ischemic events during hospitalization. Thirty-nine patients had recurrent ischemia: 20 patients had chest pain or electrocardiographic changes requiring repeat PTCA or bypass surgery, or resulting in a second creatine kinase elevation suggestive of myocardial infarction; 12 had total occlusion of the dilated artery on follow-up angiography; and 7 had exercise-induced ischemia and greater than or equal to 70% diameter stenosis that required PTCA or bypass surgery before hospital discharge. In-hospital mortality was 15% in the recurrent ischemia group, compared to 1% in the group without recurrent myocardial ischemia (p less than 0.001). Angiographic follow-up before hospital discharge was obtained in 198 patients, including 38 of the 39 patients with ischemic events. Thus, the true incidence of recurrent ischemic events was between 39 of 199 and 39 of 240, or 16 and 20%. In multivariate analyses, recurrent ischemia was predicted by translesional gradient greater than 25 mm Hg (p = 0.001), dissection (p = 0.01) and post-PTCA Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction 2 flow pattern (p = 0.016). However, even in the absence of these risk factors recurrent ischemic events occurred in 13% of patients. Post-PTCA percent diameter stenosis (whether assessed by objective or visual assessment), degree of the early systemic fibrinolytic state, post-PTCA residual minimal diameter and concomitant use of thrombolytic agents were not predictive.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521537 TI - Relation to restenosis after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty to vasomotion of the dilated coronary arterial segment. AB - Among 868 patients with successful percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA), 437 were restudied angiographically and had a provocative test with ergonovine during coronary angiography performed before and 6 months after the procedure. The relation between provoked coronary artery spasm and restenosis was studied and 4 groups of patients were analyzed. Those in group 1 (n = 63) had spasm before and after PTCA and their rate of restenosis was high (55%), especially when spasm after PTCA was observed on the dilated coronary segment (restenosis rate 58%). Patients in group 2 (n = 78) had spasm before PTCA but without abnormal vasoconstriction at 6 months and their incidence of restenosis was 19%. Sixty-one patients in group 3 had no spasm before PTCA but developed spasm at restudy. The rate of restenosis was high (38%) in this group, especially when the spasm after PTCA was located on the dilated segment (43%). In group 4 (n = 235), patients had no spasm before or after PTCA and the restenosis rate was 20%. Thus, the presence of coronary artery spasm on the dilated coronary segment, 6 months after a successful PTCA, is frequently accompanied (43% in group 3 and 58% in group 1) by restenosis. PMID- 2521539 TI - Doppler echocardiographic evaluation of left ventricular diastolic filling in isolated valvular aortic stenosis. AB - Doppler echocardiography was used to study left ventricular (LV) diastolic filling in 49 adults with isolated aortic stenosis (AS), selected from 155 consecutive patients with AS by excluding coexisting mitral disease (n = 41) and/or significant aortic regurgitation (n = 80). There were no differences between patients with AS and age-matched normal subjects for early diastolic filling (E) velocity (68 +/- 17 vs 67 +/- 13 cm/s), late diastolic filling (A) velocity (79 +/- 25 vs 67 +/- 21 cm/s), E/A ratio (1.00 +/- 0.78 vs 1.06 +/- 0.32) or early diastolic deceleration slope (264 +/- 151 vs 319 +/- 137 cm/s2, differences not significant for all). There was no correlation between any LV filling parameter and AS severity, but late diastolic filling velocity was higher in patients with AS who had LV hypertrophy (n = 33) vs those who did not (n = 16) (86 +/- 23 vs 65 +/- 26 cm/s, p less than 0.01). In the patients with AS and systolic dysfunction (LV ejection fraction less than 50%) (n = 6), early diastolic filling velocity was higher (88 +/- 20 vs 65 +/- 15 cm/s, p less than 0.01), late diastolic filling velocity lower (53 +/- 23 vs 83 +/- 23 cm/s, p less than 0.01), E/A ratio higher (2.20 +/- 1.80 vs 0.84 +/- 0.28, p less than 0.01), deceleration slope steeper (439 +/- 230 vs 240 +/- 121 cm/s2, p = 0.02) and LV end-diastolic pressure higher (23 +/- 9 vs 10 +/- 6 mm Hg, p less than 0.01) than in patients with AS and normal systolic function.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521538 TI - Benefit of the perfusion catheter for emergency coronary artery grafting after failed percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. AB - Of 2,102 consecutive patients who underwent percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty, 31 (1.5%) had emergency coronary bypass grafting for failed angioplasty. To determine the potential impact of different therapeutic strategies for controlling associated myocardial ischemia, 3 groups were analyzed. Group 1 comprised 11 patients (36%) in whom a "bailout" catheter was used to maintain anterograde coronary perfusion, group 2 included 16 patients (52%) in whom only intraaortic balloon counterpulsation was used and group 3 contained 4 patients (13%) in whom neither bailout catheter nor intraaortic balloon was used. Despite a longer average time to cardiopulmonary bypass, patients managed with the bailout catheter had a significantly lower incidence of Q-wave myocardial infarctions (9 vs 75%, p less than 0.05) compared with patients managed with intraaortic balloon counterpulsation alone. Those managed with the bailout catheter also had more consistent resolution of ST elevation and greater use of internal mammary artery grafts than patients supported by intraaortic balloon counterpulsation alone. PMID- 2521540 TI - Cardiac effects of atrial natriuretic peptide in subjects with normal left ventricular function. AB - The effects of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) infusion were determined in 9 subjects undergoing cardiac catheterization that did not disclose heart disease. Data were obtained at rest and during the steady-state phase of alpha-human-(1 28)-atrial natriuretic peptide infusion (0.5 micrograms/kg bolus, 0.05 micrograms/kg/min intravenously for 10 minutes). Mean blood pressure decreased from 105 +/- 3 to 98 +/- 4 mm Hg (p less than 0.05); pressure measurements and left ventricular (LV) angiograms suitable for analysis were available in 7 of 9 subjects at matched heart rate. The ANP infusion reduced LV end-diastolic and end systolic volume indexes from 93 +/- 6 to 80 +/- 6 ml/m2 (p less than 0.01) and from 25 +/- 3 to 17 +/- 1 ml/m2 (p less than 0.05), respectively. The LV ejection fraction increased insignificantly from 72 +/- 5 to 77 +/- 4%. End-systolic pressure/volume ratio showed a slight but not significant increase (from 3 +/- 0.4 to 4 +/- 0.8). Initial plasma levels of ANP (48 +/- 12 pg/ml) increased to 1,890 +/- 423 pg/ml (p less than 0.001) during the infusion and individual hemodynamic responses were not related to plasma ANP concentrations. These data suggest that the administration of ANP has no negative effects on LV function and the ANP-induced changes on cardiac performance are related to the reduced cardiac load. PMID- 2521541 TI - Pulmonary extraction of immunoreactive atrial natriuretic factor in dogs. PMID- 2521542 TI - Left ventricular hypertrophy in hypertensive patients. PMID- 2521543 TI - Regression of left ventricular hypertrophy in hypertension. Effects of prazosin therapy. AB - Left ventricular hypertrophy is a common consequence of chronic hypertension. Although the hypertrophic response can be considered an adaptive mechanism in the initial stages, its progression is associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality rates. Therefore, reversal of left ventricular hypertrophy may provide considerable clinical benefits to hypertensive patients. Although treatment of hypertension per se is important, blood pressure alone may not explain the course of the hypertrophic process. Not all antihypertensive drugs cause a reversal of hypertrophy, though they may produce equal effects on blood pressure. Factors other than the severity of blood pressure may play a role in the genesis of left ventricular hypertrophy. Adrenergic inhibitors cause its regression, whereas direct vasodilators may promote progression. In this study, therapy with the alpha-adrenergic inhibitor prazosin resulted in significant regression of left ventricular hypertrophy in a group of patients with moderate to-severe hypertension. This study utilized a new technique- [123I]phenylpentadecanoic acid myocardioscintigraphy--to measure the left ventricular mass. In this study, it was shown that monotherapy with prazosin produced significant relative reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, along with significant reductions in left ventricular mass. PMID- 2521544 TI - Management of hypertensive patients with special problems. PMID- 2521545 TI - Peripheral vascular complications from percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty: a comparison with transfemoral cardiac catheterization. AB - The peripheral vascular complications associated with percutaneous transfemoral coronary angioplasty were compared with those that occurred during conventional transfemoral cardiac catheterization. Among 644 patients undergoing percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA), 6 patients (0.9%) suffered peripheral vascular complications, whereas 35 of 2904 patients having cardiac catheterizations (1.2%) had a peripheral vascular complication. The types of complications associated with both procedures were similar and included groin hematomas, false aneurysms, arterial dissection, arterial perforation, and neurological deficits. The frequency of surgical repair of these complications also was similar in the two groups (50% required repair for a PTCA complication, 34% were repaired after a catheterization complication). The PTCA-associated complications included one myocardial infarction and one death, whereas neither of these occurred in association with a catheterization-induced vascular complication. The surgical management of five of the six PTCA complications was difficult, largely because of the size of the sheath-related puncture site and the presence of active bleeding from the associated systemic anticoagulation. PTCA carries the same risk of development of a peripheral vascular complication as found in transfemoral cardiac catheterization. Care must be taken to prevent sheath-related injury to the aorta-iliac-femoral system and hemorrhagic complications at the puncture site are of particular concern and require urgent surgical attention. PMID- 2521546 TI - The sociologic context of occupational health in South Africa. AB - The early history of the occupational health system in South Africa is outlined up to the early 1970s which mark a political and social transition in the society. Relevant demographic and social data are provided, and the roles and mutual relations of capital, labor, state, and academic sectors are discussed. During the past 15 years there has been heightened occupational health activity. Major legislative activity has included several commissions, the promulgation of new laws and regulations governing the workplace, and deregulatory measures in a contradictory mix. Conflictual relations between social forces are illustrated by two examples involving the introduction of safety representatives in the workplace, and compensation for occupational lung disease. The implications of wider political and economic realities are analyzed, and current and probable future trends in the evolution of the occupational health system are identified. PMID- 2521547 TI - Clinical pharmacology of mivacurium chloride (BW B1090U) in children during nitrous oxide-halothane and nitrous oxide-narcotic anesthesia. AB - We determined the dose-response relationships of mivacurium (BW B1090U) in children (2-10 years) during nitrous oxide-halothane anesthesia (0.8% end-tidal) and during nitrous oxide-narcotic anesthesia. Neuromuscular blockade was monitored by recording the electromyographic activity of the adductor pollicis muscle resulting from supramaximal stimulation at the ulnar nerve at 2 Hz for 2 seconds at 10-second intervals. To estimate dose-response relationships, for each anesthetic background four subgroups of nine patients received single bolus doses of 20-120 micrograms/kg mivacurium. The ED50 and ED95 (estimated from linear regression plots of log-dose vs. probit of effect) were 52 micrograms/kg and 89 micrograms/kg during halothane anesthesia and 62 micrograms/kg and 103 micrograms/kg during narcotic anesthesia. Nine additional patients in each anesthetic group received 250 micrograms/kg mivacurium. Three of the 18 patients given 250 micrograms/kg mivacurium developed cutaneous flushing; in one of these mean arterial pressure decreased 32% for less than 1 minute; no significant changes in heart rate occurred. With the increase in mivacurium dose from 120 micrograms/kg to 250 micrograms/kg the times to onset of 90% and maximum neuromuscular block decreased by 0.5 to 1 minute, and the times to recovery of neuromuscular transmission to 5% (T5) or 25% (T25) increased by 2-4 minutes. The recovery index (T25-75) in patients anesthetized with halothane was 4.3 +/- 1.5 minute (mean +/- SD); the time to complete recovery (T4:1 greater than or equal to 0.75) was 19.8 +/- 7.4 minutes. PMID- 2521548 TI - Quantitative relationships between plasma beta-endorphin immunoactivity and hemodynamic performance in preoperative cardiac surgical patients. AB - To quantitate the importance of cardiac dysfunction as a stimulus for plasma immunoactive beta-endorphin (iBE) secretion, we measured iBE and hemodynamic indices in 65 patients prior to anesthetic induction for coronary artery bypass grafting or valve replacement. Linear regression analysis for the group as a whole showed significant correlations between iBE and stroke index (SI), pulmonary artery wedge pressure (PCW), and right atrial pressure (RAP), but not mean arterial pressure (MAP). Two patient subgroups were identified (P less than 0.001 by F-test): those with low SI and high iBE, or those with high SI and low iBE (cutoffs at 40 ml/m2 and 35 pg/ml, respectively). Correlations between hemodynamics and iBE were always stronger within the low-SI than the high-SI subgroups. These correlations were greater for patients with coronary artery than with valvular heart disease. Cardiac output (CO) and cardiac index (CI) correlated with iBE in valve-replacement and coronary-grafting groups. These findings were not an artifact of impaired iBE clearance due to renal dysfunction. Our results quantitate the importance of hemodynamic dysfunction for iBE secretion, and indicate that this relationship is particularly strong when stroke index declines below 40 ml/m2. PMID- 2521549 TI - Randomized trial of primary anesthetic agents on outcome of coronary artery bypass operations. AB - To examine the role of primary anesthetic agent on outcome of coronary artery bypass grafting operations, 1,012 patients were prospectively randomized to receive enflurane (257), halothane (253), isoflurane (248), or sufentanil (254). Except for administration of the primary anesthetic, anesthesia management was standardized for all patients. The randomized groups did not differ in demographic characteristics, extent of coronary artery disease, chronic antianginal therapy, hemodynamic characteristics including new myocardial ischemia at arrival to the operating room, and surgical characteristics that might influence the rate of postoperative myocardial infarction or death. From anesthetic induction to start of cardiopulmonary bypass, new ST segment depression appeared in 310 (30.4%) patients and was not different among primary anesthetic groups (28.0-33.5%). Similarly, the incidence of postoperative myocardial infarction (3.6-4.7%) and death (1.2-2.4%) was not different. Although intraoperative hypotension was twice as common in patients receiving any volatile anesthetic and hypertension twice as common with sufentanil, tachycardia (greater than or equal to 110 bpm) was not related to any primary anesthetic (4.3-9.1%) and was the only hemodynamic abnormality significantly related to intraoperative ischemia. The strongest predictor of intraoperative ischemia was ischemia on arrival to the operating room. The authors postulate that approximately 90% of new myocardial ischemia observed during anesthesia is the manifestation of silent ischemia observed in patients before operation and only 10% is related to anesthetic management. They conclude that, despite differences in the hemodynamic consequences of the primary anesthetics studied, none of the primary anesthetics influenced outcome and the primary role of the anesthesiologist in management of these patients is control of heart rate. PMID- 2521550 TI - Neuromuscular and cardiovascular effects of mivacurium in children. AB - The neuromuscular and cardiovascular effects of mivacurium chloride (BW B1090U) were evaluated in 90 children (2-12 yr) during N2O:O2 halothane or N2O:O2 narcotic anesthesia. Neuromuscular response was evaluated by recording the force of contraction of the adductor of the thumb during train-of-four stimulation at 0.1 Hz. The children were divided into two groups. Patients in group A (n = 45) were anesthetized with N2O:O2 and halothane (1% inspired) and patients in group B (n = 45) were anesthetized with N2O:O2 and fentanyl or morphine. Each group was further divided into five subgroups of nine children. Children in the first three sets of subgroups (A1-A3, B1-B3) received an initial dose of 0.02, 0.04, 0.05, 0.06 or 0.07 mg/kg mivacurium to determine dose response relationships under the different anesthetic regimens. The ED50 and ED95 neuromuscular blocking doses calculated from this single dose technique were 0.051 mg/kg and 0.095 mg/kg, respectively, in children anesthetized with halothane N2O:O2, and 0.059 mg/kg and 0.11 mg/kg in children anesthetized with N2O:O2 narcotic. The fourth subset of each group (A4 and B4) received 0.09 mg/kg and 0.11 mg/kg mivacurium, the estimated ED95 for each respectively. The last subsets (A5 and B5) received 0.2 mg/kg. This dose induced 100% depression of the twitch response in all 18 patients in 1.8 +/- 0.1 min, with recovery to 5%, 25%, and 95% of control occurring in 8.4 +/- 0.5, 11.2 +/- 0.6 and 18.4 +/- 1.6 min, respectively. The recovery indices for all patients were 4.6 +/- 0.6 min for 25-75% recovery and 9.7 +/- 1.3 min for 5-95% recovery.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521551 TI - Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid from normal rats stimulates DNA synthesis in rat alveolar type II cells. AB - Proliferation of alveolar type II cells after lung injury is important for the restoration of the alveolar epithelium. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) may represent an important source of growth factors for alveolar type II cells. To test this possibility, BALF fluid was collected from normal rats, concentrated 10 fold by Amicon filtration, and tested for its ability to stimulate DNA synthesis in rat alveolar type II cells in primary culture. BALF induced a dose-dependent increase in type II cell DNA synthesis resulting in a 6-fold increase in [3H]thymidine incorporation. Similar doses also stimulated [3H]thymidine incorporation into rat lung fibroblasts by 6- to 8-fold. Removal of pulmonary surface active material by centrifugation did not significantly reduce the stimulatory activity of BALF for type II cells. The stimulation of type II cell DNA synthesis by BALF was reduced by 100% after heating at 100 degrees C for 10 min, and by approximately 80% after reduction with dithiothreitol, and after trypsin treatment. Dialysis of BALF against 1 N acetic acid resulted in a 27% reduction in stimulatory activity. The effect of BALF in promoting type II cell DNA synthesis was more pronounced when tested in the presence of serum, although serum itself has very little effect on type II cell DNA synthesis. When BALF was tested in combination with other substances that stimulate type II cell DNA synthesis (cholera toxin, insulin, epidermal growth factor, and acidic fibroblast growth factor), additive effects or greater were observed. When BALF was chromatographed over Sephadex G150, the activity eluted with an apparent molecular weight of 100 kDa.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521552 TI - The role of pirenzepine-sensitive (M1) muscarinic receptors in vagally mediated bronchoconstriction in humans. AB - In a double-blind randomized study, we compared the effects of the M1-selective muscarinic receptor antagonists pirenzepine and the nonselective antagonist ipratropium bromide on bronchoconstriction induced by inhaled sulfur dioxide (SO2) and methacholine in atopic volunteers. Both inhaled pirenzepine (70 micrograms) and ipratropium bromide (7 micrograms) significantly inhibited vagally mediated bronchoconstriction by SO2 to the same extent (p less than 0.02). However, at this dose, pirenzepine had no effect on methacholine-induced bronchoconstriction, whereas ipratropium bromide gave significant protection (p less than 0.02). This indicates that vagally mediated bronchoconstriction in humans can be inhibited by blockade of pirenzepine-sensitive (M1) muscarinic receptors probably present on a different site from muscarinic receptors at the neuromuscular junction and presumably localized to parasympathetic ganglia. Pirenzepine may be useful in investigating ganglionic function and could be beneficial therapeutically in airway disease. PMID- 2521553 TI - Activation of pro-urokinase by plasmin: non-Michaelian kinetics indicates a mechanism of negative cooperativity. AB - Enzyme kinetic plots relating the initial rate of activation of pro-urokinase to urokinase by plasmin, according to the concentration of substrate, were smooth downward curves and indicated that an apparent decrease in binding affinity occurred with increase in the concentration of pro-urokinase. Such nonlinear plots were obtained with plasmin 1 and also plasmin 2. Over sections of each curve it was possible to estimate apparent kinetic constants. At the uppermost concentrations of substrate tested, these were Km 2.9 microM and kcat 35.5 min-1 for plasmin 1, and at the lowermost concentrations, Km 9.5 nM and kcat 2.0 min-1. Linear plots were obtained when the single proteolytic cleavage was made by K5 plasmin or undegraded plasmin in the presence of 1.0 mM 6-aminohexanoic acid (6 AHa). Constants were estimated for catalysis of this reaction by K5 plasmin to be Km 6.0 microM and kcat 38 min-1 (r = 0.987). The catalytic efficiency of plasmin, at the lowermost concentrations of pro-urokinase tested, was therefore 33-fold higher than that of K5-plasmin. Plotting of data for the cleavage of pro urokinase by plasmin 1 (in the absence of 6-AHa) according to the model of Hill, gave a slope of 0.5 at the lowermost concentrations of pro-urokinase increasing to 1.0 at higher concentrations (greater than 0.3 microM); such a profile is characteristic of negative cooperativity. The rates of formation of plasmin and urokinase in a mixture containing a low concentration of plasminogen and pro urokinase were measured and compared to those predicted by a computer program designed to calculate theoretical rates using available kinetic data. The observed rates of generation of both plasmin and urokinase coincided to those predicted from the negative cooperativity model. The mechanism of the negative cooperativity may reside in a conformational change induced by binding of pro urokinase to the kringle structure of plasmin. This property may be of significance in controlling the fibrinolytic properties of the urokinase-type plasminogen activator system. PMID- 2521554 TI - Cytochrome P450 in livers of diabetic rats: regulation by growth hormone and insulin. AB - The effects of pituitary and pancreatic hormones on the change in hepatic cytochrome P450s were studied in alloxan- or streptozotocin-induced male rats. In two major sex-specific forms, P450-male and P450(6 beta-1), the former was decreased in chronic (5 week) diabetes to only less than one-third of controls and the latter was also reduced in early (1 week) diabetes. In contrast, a main phenobarbital-inducible form, P450b, was enhanced 25- to 30-fold in these diabetic rats. 3-Methylcholanthrene-inducible P448H was also elevated 3-fold in alloxan-induced diabetes. These changes in hepatic contents of P450-male, P450-6 beta-1, and P450b, which are under the regulation of pituitary growth hormone, associated well with the reported results of time-dependent changes in growth hormone levels in diabetes (G.S. Tannenbaum (1981) Endocrinology 108, 76-82), suggesting that the change in growth hormone level is a factor responsible for alterations in hepatic cytochrome P450s. Normalizing effects of insulin on these forms were also studied. Treatment of diabetic rats with insulin reversed the decreased amounts of both P450-male protein and mRNA. Insulin also normalized hepatic contents of P450b, P4506 beta-1, and P448H. However, the treatment of hypophysectomized rats with insulin had no effect, and treatment of diabetic rats with growth hormone or a suppressing agent of somatostatin, cysteamine, showed trivial effects on P450-male and P450b. These results suggest that insulin does not act directly as a substitute of growth hormone, but exerts its effect indirectly through the normalization of a growth hormone-mediated process(es) in diabetic rats. PMID- 2521555 TI - Mutational replacements of conserved amino acid residues in the alpha subunit change the catalytic properties of Escherichia coli F1-ATPase. AB - Four Escherichia coli mutants with defects in the alpha subunit of H+-ATPase (F0F1) (strain KF154, Pro-281----Leu; KF101 and KF131, Ala-285----Val; KF114, Arg 376----Cys) were isolated, and the kinetic properties of their F1-ATPases were studied. All the mutations so far identified are clustered in the two defined regions of the alpha subunit. With F1 of strain KF114, as with F1 of uncA401 (Ser 373----Phe; T. Noumi, M. Futai, and H. Kanazawa (1984) J. Biol. Chem. 259, 10076 10079), the rate of multisite hydrolysis of ATP was 4 X 10(-3)-fold lower than that with wild-type F1, suggesting that residues Ser-373 and Arg-376 or the regions in their vicinities are essential for positive catalytic cooperativity. With F1 from strain KF101, multisite hydrolysis was higher (about 40% of that of the wild type), but the F1 was unstable and showed defective interaction with the membrane sector (F0). The F1 from KF154 had lower multisite hydrolysis (about 10% of that of the wild type) but could support slow growth by oxidative phosphorylation. PMID- 2521556 TI - Solubilization of a guanine nucleotide-sensitive form of vasopressin V2 receptors from porcine kidney. AB - Vasopressin (V2) receptors were solubilized from porcine kidney membranes with the detergent egg lysolecithin. Binding of [3H]vasopressin to the solubilized fraction was rapid, specific, and saturable. The agonist dissociation constants observed in membranes and solubilized fractions were 1.7 +/- 0.3 and 2.3 +/- 0.2 nM, respectively. In competition binding experiments, the solubilized fraction exhibited the same pharmacological profile as the membranes. Chemical crosslinking of [125I]vasopressin to the solubilized fraction followed by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis analysis demonstrated a 62-kDa band which was specifically labeled with [125I]vasopressin. Vasopressin binding sites from the solubilized fractions were resolved by gel filtration and ultracentrifugation on a sucrose gradient. In addition, agonist high affinity binding to V2 receptors and its sensitivity to guanine nucleotides were preserved even after solubilization in the absence of prebound agonist prior to solubilization. Addition of guanine nucleotides such as GTP gamma S decreased the specific binding of [3H]arginine vasopressin to these solubilized fractions in a dose-dependent manner, suggesting the solubilization of a V2 receptor-G protein complex. [32P]ADP ribosylation of the solubilized fraction by cholera and pertussis toxins revealed specifically labeled proteins with molecular weights of 42,000-43,000 and 39,000-41,000, respectively, on sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gels. Furthermore [35S]GTP gamma S binding to these solubilized fractions was enhanced by vasopressin, confirming that a significant proportion of the vasopressin receptors must be closely coupled to G proteins even when these receptors are solubilized in the absence of agonist. These results are in contrast with those reported for beta, alpha 2 adrenergic and D2 dopaminergic receptor systems, but in agreement with D1 dopaminergic and A1 adenosine receptors. The molecular mechanism responsible for this difference remains to be determined. PMID- 2521557 TI - Patch testing with carbamazepine: reinduction of an exfoliative dermatitis. PMID- 2521558 TI - Augmentative communication services in the schools. AB - Major goals of AAC interventions are to enhance an individual's daily communication skills (e.g., conversation, social contact, writing, computer access, etc.) and facilitate his or her development or return of speech and language skills. Independence, opportunities, social contact, and even making the simplest choice depend on communication. Severely challenged, speech-impaired children are now on our caseloads. Service delivery approaches continue to evolve. We should use those approaches that ensure children and youth their right to communicate. PMID- 2521559 TI - Trends in racial inequality and exposure to work-related hazards, 1968-1986. AB - 1. For male workers, there has been a dramatic narrowing of racial differences in exposure since the 1960s. 2. For female workers, no such narrowing of racial differences has occurred. 3. Black women now face approximately the same risk of occupational injury as white men. PMID- 2521560 TI - The F1F0-ATPase of Escherichia coli. The substitution of alanine by tyrosine at position 25 in the c-subunit affects function but not assembly. AB - A site-directed mutation in the gene which codes for the c-subunit of the F1F0 ATPase, resulting in the substitution of Ala-25 by Tyr, has been constructed and characterized. A plasmid carrying the mutation was used to transform strain AN943 (uncE429). The resulting strain is unable to grow on succinate as sole carbon source and possesses an uncoupled growth yield. Membranes prepared from the mutant possess low levels of ATPase activity and are proton-impermeable. The F1 ATPase activity was found to be inhibited by 80% when bound to the membrane. When carried on a plasmid, the mutation is dominant in complementation tests with all mutant unc alleles tested and when transformed into wild-type strain AN346, the mutation results in an uncoupled phenotype. A mutant which overcomes this dominance was isolated and found to possess an 11-amino-acid deletion extending from Ile-55 to Met-65 within the c-subunit. These results are discussed in relation to the previously isolated Ala-25 to Thr mutant (Fimmel, A.L., Jans, D.A., Hatch, L., James, L.B., Gibson, F. and Cox, G.B. (1985) Biochim. Biophys. Acta 808, 252-258) and in relation to a previously proposed model for the F0 (Cox, G.B., Fimmel, A.L., Gibson, F. and Hatch, L. (1986) Biochim. Biophys. Acta 849, 62-69). PMID- 2521561 TI - Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic studies on the secondary structure of the Ca2+-ATPase of sarcoplasmic reticulum. AB - Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy has been applied to the study of the secondary structure of the Ca2+-ATPase of sarcoplasmic reticulum. An attempt is made to quantitatively assess the various secondary structures present. Values of 45% alpha-helix, 32% beta-sheet and 23% turns were obtained. A comparison is made of these results and those obtained using other techniques such as CD and Raman spectroscopy. The various assumptions inherent in the present procedure are discussed. The effect of various ligands, e.g. Ca2+, vanadate, ATP and phosphate, upon the structure were investigated. Upon binding these ligands no marked spectral changes were observed. PMID- 2521562 TI - Quantitation of the dynein pool in unfertilized sea urchin eggs. AB - A dynein-like ATPase activity has been isolated previously from soluble extracts of unfertilized sea urchin eggs. However, the use of non-quantitative isolation techniques, in particular affinity for microtubules or Ca2+/calmodulin, has precluded accurate estimates of dynein pool size. We have taken the unique approach of using dynein-like ATPase activity to quantitate the egg dynein pool. This approach is based on the isolation by anion-exchange chromatography on DEAE Sephacel of a peak of dynein-like ATPase activity comprising 65% of soluble ATPase activity in the cytosolic extract. Identification of cytoplasmic dynein was based on dose-dependent inhibition by erythro-9-[3-(2-hydroxynonyl)]adenine and orthovanadate, low GTPase activity and a sedimentation coefficient of 12 S. Two high molecular weight polypeptides corresponding to the A- and D-bands of axonemal dynein were shown to copurify with dynein-like ATPase activity and to undergo specific photocrosslinking with [alpha-32P]ATP, suggesting that they were egg dynein catalytic polypeptides. The specific ATPase activity of these putative catalytic polypeptides was determined to be 1.2 mumol.min-1.mg-1. The specific dynein-like ATPase activity of the crude soluble extract of unfertilized sea urchin eggs was determined to be 0.004 mumol.min-1.mg-1. The concentration of putative dynein catalytic polypeptides was therefore determined from the ratio of the specific activities of crude to pure cytoplasmic dynein catalytic polypeptide to be 0.33% of soluble protein, or 99 pg per egg. This is approximately 3-fold greater than the mass of dynein catalytic polypeptides estimated to be present in cilia at the blastula stage of sea urchin embryonic development. The large amount of cytoplasmic dynein in unfertilized eggs suggests that it could act as a precursor of embryonic ciliary dynein. Three minor peaks of ATPase activity were also resolved from cytosolic extracts and shown to be dynein-like. However, their GTPase activities were 2-4-fold higher than that of cytoplasmic dynein, raising the possibility that egg cytoplasm may contain several isoforms of dynein. PMID- 2521563 TI - Sedimentation properties of chitosomal chitin synthetase from the wild-type strain and the 'slime' variant of Neurospora crassa. AB - Marked differences in the pattern of sedimentation of cellular structures were observed after isopycnic centrifugation of crude cell-free preparations from the Neurospora crassa wall-less 'slime' variant and mycelial wild-type strain. Kinetic studies of particle sedimentation showed that the various types of subcellular components, as revealed by turbidity, UV absorption, polypeptide patterns, and chitin synthetase activity determinations, sediment independently of one another. An important feature was the finding that chitin synthetase from 'slime' peaked at a median specific gravity of 1.1201 +/- 0.0036, whereas that from wild-type strain sedimented at a higher buoyant density (specific gravity 1.1349 +/- 0.0024). Different cultivation conditions or cell breakage procedures (osmotic lysis or ballistic disruption) did not seem to affect this sedimentation behavior. Electron microscopy revealed the presence of chitosomes (microvesicles containing chitin synthetase) in the chitin synthetase activity peaks obtained after isopycnic centrifugation of cell-free extracts from 'slime' and wild-type strains. The discrepancy in buoyant density of chitin synthetases from both N. crassa strains might point to inherent differences in chemical composition of the chitosomal microvesicles. In any case, the lower buoyant density of 'slime' chitosomes appears to be one of several major alterations in sedimentation behavior of subcellular structures. These alterations might be related to the inability of 'slime' to make a cell wall. PMID- 2521564 TI - Neurospora crassa alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase complex: description, resolution of components and catalytic properties. AB - A method is proposed for the purification of the Neurospora crassa alpha ketoglutarate dehydrogenase complex, and the main points for preserving its activity, which seems to be particularly fragile in fungus, are discussed. Resolution of the constitutive enzymes was attempted and permitted the identification of the three protein bands resolved on SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis as E3, E1 and E2 with respective Mr values of 54,000, 53,000 and 49,000. Catalytic properties of the purified complex were established showing the importance of divalent cations in regulating the activity level. The role of Ca2+ in particular was investigated. It was shown that Ca2+ diminishes the Km value of the N. crassa alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase complex for alpha-ketoglutarate in the physiological concentration range, as previously observed for the mammalian complexes. PMID- 2521565 TI - [Clopheline-induced aggression in mice: role of genotype and the dopaminergic system]. AB - Clophelin (CLO) in a dose 10 mg/kg induced aggressive behaviour in mice significantly dependent of genotype. Pretreatment with flupentixol and haloperidol inhibited or blocked CLO-evoked aggression in high-aggressive mice. Apomorphine administered with CLO enhanced aggression in low-aggressive mice. Stimulation of D2 receptors by bromocriptine failed to change CLO-induced aggression. It was suggested that dopamine system was involved in CLO-aggression through D1 receptors. PMID- 2521566 TI - [Significance of the reciprocal relationship of monoaminergic systems of the brain in the pharmacological compensation of 6-hydroxydopamine-induced behavior disorders in animals]. AB - The paper studied the methods of compensation of the abnormal emotional behaviour by means of pharmacological substances, which change the content of biogenic amines. The experiments made in the Wistar rats (n-54) whose frustration reaction was diminished by neonatal treatment of 6-OHDA. It was established that recovery of the disturbances in the frustration reaction in the animals with chronic brain system activity deprivation can be achieved not only by the activation of NA system (L-DOPA, DOPS) but also by deactivation of the 5-HT brain system activity (PCPA). These findings confirm suggestion about existence of reciprocal relationship between NA and 5-HT brain systems. PMID- 2521567 TI - Installation requirements for an argon laser angioplasty system. PMID- 2521568 TI - Superoxide dismutase activity in Alzheimer's disease: possible mechanism for paired helical filament formation. AB - Activity of the free radical scavenging enzyme, superoxide dismutase (SOD-1), was determined in fibroblast cell lines derived from familial Alzheimer's patients, trisomy 21 patients and normal controls. In the present study, SOD-1 activity was significantly elevated by 30% in Alzheimer's cell lines when compared to normal euploid cell lines. As SOD-1 activity is known to be elevated about 50% in trisomy 21 patients, these cell lines were included as a control for tissue culture and assay conditions. In the present study, SOD-1 activity was significantly increased by 42 +/- 11% in trisomy 21 patients. The elevation in SOD-1 activity observed in the familial Alzheimer's patients supports the theory that paired helical filaments are synthesized in Alzheimer's disease by free radical hydroxylation of proline residues in paired helical filament precursor protein(s). PMID- 2521569 TI - Radiologic investigation of low back pain. AB - Low back pain is one of the commonest disorders, yet is the most confusing. The cost in work-time lost and in the search for and treatment of its many causes amounts to billions of dollars annually. The traditional techniques for anatomic visualization have been plain-film radiography and myelography, but they have limitations. The development of computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging have substantially improved anatomic imaging. However, invasive procedures, such as discography, percutaneous nerve-root blocking and percutaneous facet injection, may be helpful in patients with disabling pain in whom noninvasive methods give negative findings, show abnormalities that do not correlate with the symptoms or identify multiple sites of disease. The invasive procedures are believed by some to be associated with too many complications. We have attempted to clarify the strengths and weaknesses of the currently available methods of investigating low back pain and the indications for their use. PMID- 2521570 TI - Prognostic variables in patients with hepatic metastases from colorectal cancer. Importance of medical assessment of liver involvement. AB - Variation in response rates to chemotherapy and survival in patients with hepatic metastases from colorectal carcinoma may be due to patient selection factors. The prognostic importance of 13 factors were analyzed in 112 patients with only hepatic metastases, who were eligible for hepatic artery infusional chemotherapy. When individually analyzed, six factors were found to significantly (less than 0.001) affect survival: the percentage of tumor involvement of the liver, assessed medically or surgically; initial serum albumin and lactic dehydrogenase; initial Karnofsky performance status; and weight loss. Patients with less than or equal to 30% liver involvement had a median survival of 24 months versus 10 months if they had greater than 30% involvement. There was a highly significant agreement between medical and surgical assessment of liver involvement (P = 0.0001). When the variables affecting survival were studied together by multivariable analyses, the most important factor was the medical assessment of liver involvement accomplished by evaluation of radionuclide liver scan and CTT scans. The next two most important factors in the model were the ability of the patient to obtain a tumor response and the presence or absence of weight loss. Only one factor helped predict response to chemotherapy, the type of perfusion seen on a 99Technetium-macroaggregated albumin (MAA) arterial flow scan. Forty five percent of patients with good perfusion had a partial response while 13% of patients with poor perfusion had a tumor response (P = 0.006). We recommend that future studies, dealing with patients who have hepatic metastases from colorectal carcinoma and are eligible for hepatic arterial infusion, document and stratify for the following factors: the percentage of liver involvement, the presence or absence of weight loss, and the type of perfusion seen on MAA scans. PMID- 2521571 TI - Combined 5-fluorouracil and floxuridine administered as a 14-day infusion. A phase I study. AB - 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) and floxuridine (FUdR) were admixed in a single solution and administered via a central venous catheter on a continuous infusion schedule for 14 days. The Phase I trial design developed for admixture combinations was employed with starting doses for 5-FU at 250 mg/m2/day and for FUdR at 0.075 mg/kg/day. Twenty patients and 28 courses were studied. Dose rate limiting toxicity was pseudoregional enteritis with or without stomatitis experienced by five of ten of the courses administered at the highest dose rates of the admixture components. The simultaneous delivery of the two agents results in a modest compromise of the cumulative dose delivered for FUdR. Previous Phase I studies of single agent 5-FU and FUdR had demonstrated that the optimal dose rates for the individual agents in a 14-day continuous 24-hour infusion schedule is 350 mg/m2/d and 0.125 mg/Kg/day, respectively. The maximum dose rate of 5-FU at 350 mg/m2/day for 14 days is not restricted even with the addition of FUdR at up to 0.1 mg/kg/day. The optimal dose rates for Phase II trails should be as follows: 5-FU, 350 mg/m2/day; and FUdR, 0.1 mg/kg/day. PMID- 2521572 TI - Therapy for coronary heart disease in women. AB - Both the presentation and prognosis of coronary heart disease in women are significantly different than in men. Diagnostic evaluations should be approached somewhat differently in male and female populations, and gender should be one of the variables assessed when options for medical and surgical therapy are considered. Risk factor modification can be offered as a potentially effective form of therapy for coronary heart disease in women. These modifications would include cessation of smoking, avoidance of oral contraceptives in women greater than 35 years of age, hypertension control, and normalization of blood lipid profile and body weight. Risk factor modification may be particularly important in prevention of accelerated atherosclerosis in diabetic women. Prognosis after myocardial infarction is significantly worse in women despite better post infarction left ventricular ejection fraction and higher incidence of non-Q-wave myocardial infarction in that population. Definitive assessment of coronary anatomy and aggressive management of coronary heart disease should be considered in women judged to be at high risk. Little information is available regarding gender-specific responses to medical management of coronary heart disease. Women seem to have a less favorable short-term outcome after PTCA, but better long-term results. Coronary artery bypass grafting results appear to depend less on gender than on coronary anatomy, preoperative risk factors, and patient size, and thus should not be withheld from women. PMID- 2521573 TI - Multivalve percutaneous balloon valvuloplasty. PMID- 2521574 TI - Simplified two-wire technique for bifurcation lesions during coronary angioplasty. AB - Bifurcation lesions are commonly encountered in coronary angioplasty. This paper describes a simplified approach to the problem with emphasis on the equipment used. PMID- 2521575 TI - Use of exchange wires in coronary angioplasty. AB - A 300 cm exchange guide wire was used as the primary wire in 59 consecutive patients referred for percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. The success rate of the angioplasty using this as the only wire was 92% (54 of 59), and we were able to pass the exchange guide wire into the distal vessel in 56 of the 59 patients (95%). We believe the exchange wire technique has a place in the first line approach to complex coronary angioplasty. PMID- 2521576 TI - Percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty and its different approaches: a new perspective. PMID- 2521578 TI - Initial coronary occlusion improves tolerance to subsequent prolonged balloon inflations. AB - An acute coronary occlusion with severe ischemic signs during percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty was successfully treated with a long balloon inflation. Subsequent balloon inflations did not produce ischemic signs. Distal coronary occlusion pressure rose significantly during balloon inflations of more than 2 min. It is hypothesized that an initial ischemic occlusion may improve tolerance to prolonged coronary occlusions. The underlying mechanism may be that further coronary collateral circulation is recruited over time. PMID- 2521577 TI - Role of angioplasty in patients with previous coronary artery bypass surgery. AB - Fifty-nine patients with previous coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) underwent coronary artery or vein graft angioplasty following a recurrence of symptoms, 141 lesions were attempted in 70 procedures. The overall angiographic success rate was 77%. Some angiographic success was achieved in 83% of patients. Complications included myocardial infarction in three (4.3%), death in one (1.4%), and iliac artery thrombosis in one (1.4%). No patients were referred for urgent surgery. Twenty-eight patients have undergone repeat coronary arteriography after 7.5 +/- 2.6 months (mean +/- SD), and 31% of lesions have recurred. Fifty-eight percent of patients without recurrence at follow-up continue to have improved symptoms. Treadmill exercise time was significantly prolonged in patients in whom all attempted lesions had been successfully dilated and in those in whom only some lesions were dilated. Our experience suggests that approximately 29% of patients with recurrence of angina following CABG may be suitable for angioplasty. PMID- 2521579 TI - A simple device for improving patient comfort. PMID- 2521580 TI - [Pneumomediastinum: complications due to the use of a jet of compressed air]. AB - We present a case-report of pneumomediastinum and surgical emphysema of the head, neck and upper thorax following the use of a high-pressure air-jet during dental surgery under general anaesthesia with N2O. This rare complication may be forgotten by the anaesthetist. The pneumomediastinum was diagnosed at the end of surgery and the cause subsequently determined during the immediate postoperative period. The possible deleterious effects of using such a dental air-jet are discussed as well as the potential dangers of the administration of nitrous oxide in such situation. PMID- 2521581 TI - Improved diagnostic performance on the severity of left ventricular hypertrophy with body surface mapping. AB - To improve the diagnostic usefulness of electrocardiography (ECG) in determining the severity of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) with body surface mapping, 87 unipolar ECGs were recorded from 57 patients with left ventricular (LV) concentric hypertrophy and 30 with LV dilatation. Body surface ECG features due to LVH were evaluated by increase of QRS voltage and delayed local activation. We measured for each lead R voltage, net area of QRS (AQRS), ventricular activation time (VAT), and departure index (DI) of AQRS and VAT (DI = mean/SD). From these measurements, seven parameters were calculated for each patient: Rmax, the maximal R wave voltage; AQRSmax, the maximal AQRS; AQRS-Dmax, the maximal AQRS DI; AQRS-Darea, the area size where DIs of AQRS are more than 2; VATmax, the maximal VAT; VAT-Dmax, the maximal VAT DI; and VAT-Darea, the area size where DIs of VAT are more than 2. Among these parameters, the most effective for diagnosis of LVH were selected by stepwise multiple regression analysis. In the concentric hypertrophy group, the combination of VAT-Darea and Rmax was determined to be the best for estimating wall thickness. The regression equation determined from them correlated well to wall thickness (r = 0.73). In the LV dilatation hypertrophy group, only AQRSmax was selected for estimating LV dilatation. A good correlation between AQRSmax and LV internal dimension was observed (r = 0.73). With the body surface distribution of VAT prolongation, septal hypertrophy was separated from the other LVH. These were superior to the conventional method of 12-lead ECGs. ECG diagnosis of LVH severity improved by incorporating a mapping study. Also, prolongation of VAT and increase in QRS voltage were shown to be important when determining the severity of LVH. PMID- 2521582 TI - A view of vascular stents. PMID- 2521583 TI - Antibody valence and induced signal transduction: the role of antibody valence in anti-CD3-induced signal transduction in isolated normal T cells. AB - This report provides direct evidence that protein kinase C (PKC) is activated in isolated, rigorously accessory cell (AC)-depleted T cells when the T cell antigen recognition complex is stimulated by divalent anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody. Anti CD3 monoclonal antibody-stimulated PKC activation alone does not, however, directly stimulate T cell proliferation in the absence of AC. A rise in cytosolic calcium is the second signal believed to be of paramount importance in T cell activation. While mitogenic concentrations of some divalent anti-CD3 antibodies do not cause a rise in cytosolic calcium, polyvalent anti-CD3 does evoke increased intracellular Ca2+ in rigorously AC-depleted resting human T cells. PMID- 2521584 TI - The relationship between HLA-DR3 and T-cell regulation of immunoglobulin production in primary sclerosing cholangitis. AB - Immunoglobulin production in vitro, its control by concanavalin A-activated suppressor T-cells, and the relationship between abnormalities in nonantigen specific suppression and histocompatibility antigens have been studied in 20 patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). Suppression of IgG, IgM, and IgA synthesis was impaired in 12 patients with PSC alone, but was normal in 8 with PSC and associated ulcerative colitis (UC). The HLA antigens B8 and DR3 were increased in frequency in both groups of patients, but an association between DR3, and to a lesser extent B8, and defective suppressor T-cell function was only observed in the patients with PSC alone. These results not only provide further evidence of an association between HLA DR3 and impaired nonantigen-specific suppression but also indicate the genetic complexity of this association and its specificity, being found in this study in only one subgroup of patients with PSC. PMID- 2521586 TI - Cellular interactions for the in vitro production of anti-chromatin autoantibodies in MRL/Mp-lpr/lpr mice. AB - Anti-chromatin autoantibodies are spontaneously produced by autoimmune but not by normal mice. An in vitro system was developed to study the cellular mechanisms of anti-chromatin production in MRL/Mp-lpr/lpr (MRL/lpr) mice. In such cultures, spleen cells from MRL/lpr mice with active autoimmune disease generated substantial amounts of anti-chromatin, as measured by ELISA of culture supernatants and by ELISA spot assay of anti-chromatin-producing cells. In vitro production of anti-chromatin autoantibodies was independent of T cells, even when spleen cells from animals as young as 1 month were examined. In contrast, anti-Sm production under the same conditions was highly T cell dependent. Macrophages and/or macrophage-derived factors were necessary for the in vitro production of anti-chromatin autoantibodies. The lack of anti-chromatin production by cells from nonautoimmune mice could not be ascribed to the presence of suppressor cells. These studies indicate that individual autoantibodies may arise through distinct cellular mechanisms in systemic lupus erythematosus mice. MRL/lpr mice develop global T lymphocyte deficiency along with their autoimmunity. The progressive increase in relatively thymus independent antibodies such as anti chromatin is consistent with the lack of functional T lymphocytes in aging MRL/lpr mice. PMID- 2521585 TI - Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay using isolated (U) small nuclear ribonucleoprotein polypeptides as antigens to investigate the clinical significance of autoantibodies to these polypeptides. AB - In order to investigate the clinical significance of autoantibodies to individual U small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP) polypeptides, an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using isolated 68K, A, B/B', and D polypeptides from purified U1 snRNP was developed. The ELISA levels of IgG antibodies were positively correlated with results of immunoblotting and hemagglutination. In patients positive for antibodies to ribonucleoprotein, IgG anti-68K reactivity was associated with active mixed connective tissue disease, and in particular with myositis and esophageal hypomotility. IgG B/B' and D polypeptide reactivities were associated with systemic lupus erythematosus and renal disorder. Raynaud's phenomenon was infrequent in patients with high IgG B/B' and D polypeptide reactivities. Pleuritis/pericarditis was associated with the IgG B/B' polypeptide reactivities. In longitudinal studies, ELISA levels of IgG antibodies against these polypeptides changed in parallel with disease activity. PMID- 2521587 TI - Echocardiographic findings in patients on maintenance hemodialysis substituted with recombinant human erythropoietin. AB - Cardiomegaly and impaired myocardial function are frequent in patients on maintenance hemodialysis. One important reason is probably severe renal anemia. Substitution with recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO) results in long-term correction of renal anemia. We investigated the changes in cardiac function under rhEPO therapy using echocardiography. 13 patients with severe renal anemia (hct less than 26%) but independent of regular blood transfusions during the last six months were treated with 40-120 IU/kg rhEPO intravenously three times/week. Echocardiographic studies were performed in the anemic state and when hematocrit values were stable at levels above 30%. Left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD) and end-systolic diameter (LVESD) were reduced (LVEDD: 53.9 +/- 4.2 mm vs. 51.4 +/- 5.8 mm; LVESD: 35.7 +/- 5 mm vs. 32.8 +/- 5 mm). Mean end-diastolic volume (LVEDV) and end-systolic volume (LVESV) were also diminished (LVEDV: 141.9 +/- 25.4 ml vs. 128.1 +/- 32.5 ml; LVESV: 54.8 +/- 18.6 ml vs. 45.1 +/- 17 ml). Stroke volume (SV) fell slightly from 87.1 ml to 83 ml resulting in a decrease of cardiac output (CO) from 6.9 +/- 1.6 l/min to 6.2 +/- 1.7 l/min. The thickness of the left ventricular posterior wall (LVPW) and of the septum interventriculare (IVS) remained constant. Myocardial contractility indicated by ejection fraction (EF), fractional shortening (FS) and the velocity of circumferential fiber shortening (VCF) frequently improved. Our data indicate that correction of renal anemia by rhEPO can improve myocardial function in patients on maintenance hemodialysis. PMID- 2521588 TI - Thyroid antigen-mediated glomerulonephritis in Graves' disease. AB - We describe a patient with Graves' disease in whom marked proteinuria, microhematuria and hypoalbuminemia were associated. Renal biopsy demonstrated electrondense deposits in the capillary basement membrane, a finding consistent with immune complex glomerulonephritis. Indirect immunofluorescent examination with rabbit antihuman thyroglobulin indicated that these electron-dense deposits were thyroid antigen-mediated immune complexes. PMID- 2521589 TI - Eczema of the face, scalp and neck compared with eczema elsewhere. PMID- 2521590 TI - Contact dermatitis from B. subtilis-derived protease enzymes. PMID- 2521592 TI - Contact dermatitis due to Cryptotaemia japonica Makino. PMID- 2521591 TI - A pseudo-epidemic of allergy of sodium selenate. PMID- 2521593 TI - Allergic contact dermatitis from the perfume in Locan cream. PMID- 2521594 TI - Allergic contact dermatitis from potato flesh. PMID- 2521595 TI - Cross-sensitivity to multiple topical corticosteroids. PMID- 2521596 TI - Allergic contact dermatitis from para-chloro-meta-xylenol in Lurosep soap. PMID- 2521597 TI - Clindamycin allergy presenting as rosacea. PMID- 2521598 TI - Nail discoloration due to mahogany. AB - A patient is described in whom orange-brown discoloration occurred following occupational exposure to mahogany wood. Mahogany-induced dermatitis is reviewed. PMID- 2521599 TI - Increased concanavalin A-induced suppressor cell activity in humans with occupational lead exposure. AB - E-rosette-forming cells (E-RFC), mitogen-induced blast transformation, OKT4+, OKT8+ cells, and their ratio were found to be normal in 10 subjects chronically exposed to lead with blood levels of 40-51 micrograms%. However, concanavalin A (Con A)-induced suppressor cell activity (SCA) in these subjects was significantly greater than in normal matched controls. The clinical relevance of this observation is not clear, but it may have some bearing on the various immunologic defects described in lead exposure. PMID- 2521600 TI - Transition and other services for handicapped students in local education agencies. AB - A survey was conducted among special education administrators in 1,450 local education agencies (LEAs) nationwide, to determine the availability of vocational programs and transition-oriented services for handicapped youth. Results showed that most LEAs offer at least some vocational programs; transition-oriented services as not as frequently available, particularly in smaller LEAs. In addition to size of LEA, community employment opportunities and the availability of adult services were related to whether an LEA offered any transition-related services. PMID- 2521601 TI - Vitamin therapy and children with Down syndrome: a review of research. AB - The claim that large doses of vitamin-mineral supplements benefit mentally retarded children has captured the attention of the general public and the medical profession. A study by Harrell, Capp, Davis, Pearless, and Ravitz (1981) reported increases in IQ and improvements in behavior among mentally retarded subjects (one third of whom were children with Down syndrome) receiving nutritional supplementation. However, subsequent studies, focusing exclusively on children with Down syndrome and using less flawed research designs, have demonstrated that vitamin therapy is not useful for members of this population. PMID- 2521603 TI - Disciplining handicapped students: legal issues in light of Honig v. Doe. AB - Court decisions interpreting the effect of the education for All Handicapped children Act on traditional forms of public school discipline have raised many question. This article reviews these decisions and confirms that most forms of minor disciplinary remedies remain available to educators so long as they are also used with nonhandicapped students. However, many legal problems arise with expulsion and long-term, or indefinite, suspensions of handicapped students, especially in the light of the recent Supreme court ruling regarding the expulsion of handicapped students. PMID- 2521602 TI - Review of comparative studies in the instruction of students with moderate and severe handicaps. AB - Systematic instructional strategies that investigators have used with students who display moderate to severe handicaps were identified and defined. The investigations which directly compared two or more strategies were analyzed, and summary statements/recommendations about the relative effectiveness and efficiency of the strategies were made. Analyzing the effectiveness of the procedures involved determining which strategies successfully taught skills to subjects. The efficiency of the strategies was analyzed on measures which indicated the skills were taught in a productive and timely manner (i.e., trials to criterion, sessions to criterion, errors to criterion, direct instruction time). Recommendations for future research and practice include (a) conduct more studies comparing the effectiveness and efficiency of instructional strategies, (b) conduct investigations of the specific variables of single strategies to identify the most efficient use of each procedure, (c) expand the efficiency measures to assess whether students learn information not directly targeted for instruction, and (d) conduct research to determine which strategy is best to use with given types of students and skills. PMID- 2521605 TI - Reduced proliferation in T lymphocytes in aged humans is predominantly in the CD8+ subset, and is unrelated to defects in transmembrane signaling which are predominantly in the CD4+ subset. AB - Peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) from elderly donors have a reduced proliferative response to phytohemagglutinin (PHA) and anti-CD3 monoclonal antibodies (mAb) compared to those from young donors. To examine whether this is due to intrinsic deficiencies in proliferative potential of T-cell subsets, we compared the growth of unsorted PBL vs sorted CD4+ or CD8+ CD11- cells after anti CD3 mAb or PHA stimulation. Unsorted PBL of elderly donors (greater than 65 years) showed a significant decrease in proliferation compared to young donors (20-30 years) when stimulated with anti-CD3 mAb or PHA. Sorted CD4+ and CD8+ cells were grown in culture in the absence of accessory cells under optimized growth conditions (CD28 mAb, interleukin 2 and beta-mercaptoethanol present). CD4+ cells from elderly donors showed no reduced growth after anti-CD3 mAb stimulation and only slightly decreased growth after stimulation with PHA. CD8+ CD11- cells from elderly donors, however, showed a 20-30% reduction in the proportion of cells proliferating in response to the mitogens and up to 40% reduction in the rate of cell-cycle progression of the responding cells. We examined whether this reduced proliferation is related to decreased efficiency of signal transduction by comparing this to the mobilization of intracellular free calcium ([Ca2+]i) and calcium channel activity after stimulation with anti-CD3 mAb or PHA. [Ca2+]i was measured in CD4 and CD8 subsets of young and elderly donors using a flow cytometric assay with the dye indo-1. Compared to cells from young donors, CD4+ cells from elderly donors showed a [Ca2+]i response which was up to 26% lower after stimulation with CD3 and 10% lower after stimulation with PHA. This appeared to be related to decreased calcium channel activity in elderly donors, rather than mobilization of intracellular Ca2+ stores. CD8+ cells from elderly donors, however, had a slightly, but significantly, greater [Ca2+]i response to CD3 mAb and PHA than did cells from young donors. Since the age dependent defect in proliferation is mainly in CD8+ cells, but the [Ca2+]i decline is predominantly in the CD4+ subset, these results suggest that the reduced proliferation of T cells from older donors is not related to decreased efficiency of transmembrane signal transduction. PMID- 2521606 TI - Coordinate induction of fibronectin, fibronectin receptor, tropomyosin, and actin genes in serum-stimulated fibroblasts. AB - From a collection of more than 80 nonoverlapping clones, isolated by differential screening of a lambda cDNA library prepared from serum-stimulated cells in the presence of cycloheximide, we have identified four clones that encoded for components of the cytoskeleton and extracellular matrix. DNA sequencing of clones B2, V58, TT1, and P38 demonstrated that they corresponded to beta-actin, alpha tropomyosin, fibronectin, and the beta-subunit of fibronectin receptor. All four mRNA levels showed a detectable increase 30 min after stimulation and remained at high levels for at least 8 h. The half-lives of these mRNAs were found to be very long in contrast to those of other growth factor-inducible genes. An increase in transcription was observed for the four genes. Actin and fibronectin showed nearly maximal increase at 15 min, while fibronectin receptor and tropomyosin reached their maximum transcription at 1 h. These results demonstrated that four interacting components of the cytoskeleton and extracellular matrix are rapidly induced in stimulated quiescent cells, possibly reflecting part of the coordinate changes in gene expression that occur during embryogenesis and wound healing. PMID- 2521604 TI - The effect of human C-reactive protein on the cell-attachment activity of fibronectin and laminin. AB - We have previously reported that purified human C-reactive protein (CRP) specifically binds to the cell-binding region of plasma fibronectin (Fn) in a Ca2+-dependent reaction that is saturable at a molar ratio of CRP/Fn of approximately 9. In this study, the binding of CRP to Fn was found to interfere with the cell-attachment promoting activity of Fn. The inhibition of cell attachment was dependent on the concentration of the CRP and involved the phosphorylcholine (PC) binding site of CRP since inhibition was prevented by allowing the CRP to react with either PC (or closely related monophosphate compounds) or a mAb specific for the PC-binding site of CRP. Binding of CRP to laminin was also Ca2+-dependent; however, this binding did not alter the cell attachment promoting activity of laminin. CRP by itself does not mediate cell attachment. Since CRP is selectively deposited at sites of tissue damage along with plasma Fn and has the ability to bind to Fn and alter its cell-binding activity, CRP may modulate early events in tissue repair. PMID- 2521607 TI - Analysis of murine interferon-gamma binding to its receptor on intact cells and solubilized membranes. Identification of an 80 kDa receptor. AB - The receptor for murine-interferon-gamma (Mu-IFN-gamma) has been characterized for its molecular size and equilibrium binding constant on a thymoma cell line, EL-4. Binding of 125I-IFN-gamma to intact cells and their solubilized membranes has shown a single class of receptor with Kd values of 1.9 x 10(-9) M and 1.3 x 10(-8) M, respectively. It was shown that solubilization of the Mu-IFN-gamma receptor with a Zwitterionic detergent (Chaps) preserves its binding activity. A direct comparison of the molecular mass of the Mu-IFN-gamma receptor on intact cells versus detergent-solubilized membranes was performed using a radiolabeled photoactivated crosslinking reagent and direct hybridization with 125I-labeled IFN-gamma on Western blots of solubilized receptor. The results indicate that both types of receptors have an identical molecular mass of approximately 80 kDa. PMID- 2521608 TI - Effect of redox potential on rat liver F1-ATPase. AB - Redox titration of F1-ATPase from rat liver mitochondria referred to the modification of the hydrolytic activity on Mg-ATP has resulted in a three-step pattern, with three distinct jumps of activity separated by clear plateaus. The measured potentials ranged from -400 mV to +400 mV and were obtained by the addition of dithionite and ferricyanide. Electron exchange was facilitated with a mixture of different redox mediators. At pH 7.4 the midpoint potentials were +210 mV, +40 mV and -230 mV. These three midpoint potentials were displaced towards more negative values by 2,4-dinitrophenol or by an increase of the pH of the medium. The titration curves were described by n = 2 Nernst equations. PMID- 2521609 TI - Cell surface fibronectin of mouse peritoneal macrophages. AB - Fibronectin (FN) was detected on thioglycollate-induced mouse peritoneal macrophages by binding the 125I-labeled F(ab')2 fragment of rabbit anti-human plasma fibronectin. The cell surface fibronectin (sFN) was removed from the surface of the macrophage monolayer by limited trypsinization. After trypsinization, binding of 125I-labeled plasma fibronectin (125I-pFN) to the macrophage monolayer was increased, suggesting that the FN receptor covered with sFN was exposed by trypsinization without destroying the receptor activity. The amounts of saturation binding of 125I-pFN to the macrophage monolayers before and after trypsinization were about 2.4 and 6.3 micrograms per 10(6) cells, respectively, indicating that the macrophage monolayer has the capacity of binding 6.3 micrograms FN per 10(6) cells, and the FN receptor equivalent to about 4 micrograms pFN per 10(6) cells is covered with sFN. PMID- 2521610 TI - Neutral endopeptidase 24.11 (enkephalinase) and related regulators of peptide hormones. AB - This report summarizes the recent rapid development of research on neutral endopeptidase 24.11 (enkephalinase; NEP) and on two other metalloenzymes, meprin and endopeptidase 24.15. NEP cleaves a variety of active peptides, including enkephalins, at the amino side of hydrophobic amino acids. The cDNA for human, rat, and rabbit NEP has been cloned and the deduced protein sequences revealed a high degree of homology (93-94%). Site-directed mutagenesis proved that an active site glutamic acid is involved in catalysis and two active site histidines are responsible for binding the zinc cofactor. Although NEP was originally discovered in the kidney, it is widely distributed in the body including specific structures in the central nervous system, lung, male genital tract, and intestine and in neutrophils, fibroblasts, and epithelial cells. In tissues and cells NEP is bound to plasma membrane through a hydrophobic membrane-spanning domain near the NH2 terminus, but it is present in soluble form in urine and blood. In addition to enkephalins, NEP cleaves kinins, chemotactic peptide, atrial natriuretic factor (ANF), and substance P in vivo. NEP in the lung is a major inactivator of substance P, which constricts the airway smooth muscles. Because of the possible involvement of NEP in the metabolism of opioid peptides and the cardiac hormone ANF, orally active inhibitors have been synthesized. Compounds that inhibit both aminopeptidase and NEP were reported to prolong the analgesic effects of enkephalins. Other inhibitors given per os prolonged the renal effects of exogenous ANF. A newly synthesized specific inhibitor of NEP was also active in animal experiments as an analgesic. Studies on the structure and function of NEP should lead to further development of therapeutically applicable inhibitors. PMID- 2521611 TI - Establishment of a standard test method for determining susceptibility of Mesocyclops to different insecticides. AB - A method to determine the susceptibility of Mesocylops sp. to insecticides was devised. Matured adults were used for the bioassays. Mesocyclops sp. (25 in number) were placed in 24.9 ml of sterilized paddy field water in 5 cm diameter petri dish and 0.1 ml of appropriate stock solution of the insecticide was added. Mortality was scored 24 h after treatment. Among the insecticides tested, Permethrin, Dichlorvos, Temephos, DDT, Carbendazim, Fenitrothion, Zolone and Aldrin were effective against Mesocyclops sp. PMID- 2521612 TI - Prevalence of cardiac structural and functional abnormalities in untreated primary hypertension. AB - We examined the prevalence of left ventricular structural and functional abnormalities in previously untreated subjects by performing echocardiography in 89 normal volunteers, 57 patients with established hypertension, and 38 patients with mild or borderline hypertension. We measured left ventricular mass, wall thickness, internal diameter, and wall thickness/radius ratio. Because of intergroup differences in body size, we used covariance analysis to index these variables to a common value of 1.8 m2. No adjustment was needed for the wall thickness/radius ratio. Functional variables determined were fractional shortening and transmitral early/late flow velocity ratio (the latter was standardized by analysis of covariance to age 40 years). The prevalence of left ventricular mass index values more than 2 SD above the mean of the normal group was 30% in the patients with established hypertension and 12-15% in the patients with mild hypertension. Corresponding figures for wall thickness index were 65% and 32% and for the wall thickness/radius ratio 60% and 40%. The prevalence of abnormality in the transmitral flow velocity was 28% in the patients with established hypertension and 12% in the patients with mild hypertension. A multivariate discriminant function that used combined anatomic and functional variables provided the most reliable classification; it was correct in 82% of normal subjects, 65% of patients with established hypertension, and 61% of patients with mild hypertension. The majority of patients with hypertension have cardiac structural or functional abnormalities, or both. PMID- 2521613 TI - Percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty in management of atherosclerotic renovascular hypertension: results in 100 patients. AB - The long-term effect of percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty (PTRA) on blood pressure and renal function was assessed in 100 consecutive patients with atherosclerotic renovascular hypertension. Technical success rates (complete plus partial) of a first PTRA averaged 76.2%, 74.1%, and 67.7% for the unilateral (n = 42), bilateral (n = 27), and solitary (n = 31) groups, respectively. Of the technical successes, 59% (43/73) experienced sustained blood pressure benefit (mostly amelioration) during a mean follow-up period of 29 months. Rates of blood pressure benefit were similar in the three groups. Ostial lesions comprised the majority of blood pressure benefit failures. Repeat angioplasty in 14 patients resulted in a 71% technical success rate and a 50% blood pressure benefit rate during a mean follow-up period of 22 months. Long-term stability of mean serum creatinine level was observed after technically successful angioplasty in all three groups. Acute renal insufficiency, which was reversible in all but one patient, complicated 26% of the procedures. Mechanical complications occurred in 14% (20/145) of the arteries acted on; surgical intervention was required in five patients. The mortality rate was 2%. These results suggest that angioplasty is effective in both the long-term management of renovascular hypertension and the preservation of renal function in a large fraction of patients with atherosclerotic renovascular hypertension. PMID- 2521614 TI - Coronary arterial aneurysms after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty- a not uncommon finding at elective follow-up angiography. AB - Five coronary arterial aneurysms were found in 4 of 80 (5%) patients who underwent elective coronary arteriography 6 months after successful percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. None of them was present immediately after dilatation. All patients had been suffering from stable angina before angioplasty, while no case had recurrent angina or definite angiographic restenosis at the 6-month follow-up. Quantitative coronary angiography was performed in all angiograms. The coronary aneurysms only developed in the dilated portions (4 in left anterior descending and 1 in an intermediate branch of the left coronary artery): their diameter ranged from 3.1 to 4.4 mm, and their length from 2.2 to 4.9 mm. The ratio between the aneurysm diameter and the coronary arterial diameter (aneurysm: artery ratio) varied from 1.15 to 1.91 (mean 1.47). No significant clinical or technical differences were found between patients who developed aneurysm after angioplasty, and patients who did not. On the other hand, 4 of the 5 patients who developed aneurysm had angiographic evidence of "non-pathologic" dissection immediately after balloon dilatation. Moreover, the ratio between the measured angiographic diameters of the balloon (at maximal inflating pressure) and of the coronary artery selected for the procedure showed that the balloon was mildly oversized (balloon: artery ratio ranging from 1.10 to 1.37, mean 1.28) in all cases with aneurysm except the only 1 in whom dissection did not occur. In conclusion, aneurysm formation after coronary angioplasty is not infrequent in our experience: balloon size and wall dissection seem to be the major factors related to this event. PMID- 2521615 TI - Effects of acute reperfusion on regional myocardial function: serial two dimensional echocardiography assessment. AB - Serial two-dimensional echocardiography was performed in 23 patients with acute myocardial infarction who received intravenous thrombolytic therapy to evaluate the effect of acute reperfusion on regional wall motion abnormalities. Regional wall motion abnormalities improved in 4 of the 14 patients (29%) with successful reperfusion and in 1 of the 9 (11%) without successful reperfusion. In successfully reperfused patients, the main determinant of improvement in regional wall motion abnormalities was duration from the onset of chest pain to the time of reperfusion (3.3 vs. 6.3 h in successfully reperfused patients without recovery of regional wall motion abnormalities; P less than 0.001). PMID- 2521616 TI - Involvement of "accessory" and antigen receptor molecules in human helper T cell clone activation studied by monoclonal antibody inhibition. AB - The requirements for activation of autocrine proliferation in human helper T cell clones (Th-TCC) by allogeneic cells were examined in monoclonal antibody (MoAb) blocking studies. Stimulation was not blocked by CD4, CD5, CD6, CD7, or CD45 MoAbs, despite high levels of expression of these antigens on the TCC. Only CD2 and CD11a (LFA-1) MoAbs blocked activation, the latter only when peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and not B-lymphoblastoid cell line (B-LCL) cells were used at stimulators. Responses to interleukin 2 (IL 2) were only minimally blocked by any of the MoAbs. All TCC were CD3+ and expressed the alpha/beta chain T cell receptor (TCR) as detected by moAb WT31. Accordingly, CD3 and WT31 MoAbs consistently blocked stimulation by B-LCL, and in addition one anti-DR5 TCC and one anti-DQw3 TCC were blocked by MoAb 42/1C1, which is directed to an idiotypic determinant of the HPB-ALL leukemic line TCR. Only these two TCC reacted with moAb 42/1C1 in flow cytometry. These observations suggest that CD2- but not LFA-1 mediated interactions, as well as TCR and stimulating antigen binding, are absolutely necessary to activate Th-TCC. PMID- 2521617 TI - Deoxyglucose-resistant mutants of Neurospora crassa: isolation, mapping, and biochemical characterization. AB - Neurospora crassa mutants resistant to 2-deoxyglucose have been isolated, and their mutations have been mapped to four genetic loci. The mutants have the following characteristics: (i) they are resistant to sorbose as well as to 2 deoxyglucose; (ii) they are partially or completely constitutive for glucose transport system II, glucamylase, and invertase, which are usually repressed during growth on glucose; and (iii) they synthesize an invertase with abnormal thermostability and immunological properties, suggesting altered posttranslational modification. All of these characteristics could arise from defects in the regulation of carbon metabolism. In addition, mutants with mutations at three of the loci lack glucose transport system I, which is normally synthesized constitutively by wild-type N. crassa. Although the basis for this change is not yet clear, the mutants provide a way of studying the high-affinity system II uncomplicated by the presence of the low-affinity system I. PMID- 2521618 TI - Retroregulation of the bacteriophage lambda int gene: limited secondary degradation of the RNase III-processed transcript. AB - Expression of the int gene of bacteriophage lambda from two promoters, pI and pL, is differentially regulated through RNA processing. Efficient Int protein synthesis from the pL RNA is inhibited by the action of sib, a cis-acting retroregulator downstream from the int gene. We have used mapping procedures with nuclease S1 to study the pL transcripts produced in vivo after phage lambda infection. We have found an RNase III-dependent processing site within the Int coding sequence, 387 nucleotides upstream from the site of the primary cleavage by RNase III at Sib. This secondary processing site is located at the most stable region of secondary structure in the sib int region, as predicted by computer analysis. We suggest that RNase III cleavage at the Sib site allows processive exonucleolytic degradation of the RNA to proceed to a region of secondary structure within the Int coding sequence, which protects the upstream region of the transcript from further degradation. PMID- 2521620 TI - Wide distribution of homologs of Escherichia coli Kdp K+-ATPase among gram negative bacteria. AB - We used Southern blotting to screen a variety of bacterial genes for homology to the kdp genes of Escherichia coli, genes that encode an ATP-driven K+ transport system. We found that most enterobacteria have sequences homologous to those of the three kdp structural genes and the kdpD regulatory gene. A number of distantly related species, including some cyanobacteria, have sequences homologous to those of the structural genes but not the regulatory gene. In all cases only a single region of homology was found. These results suggest that ATP driven transport systems similar to the Kdp system in structure and regulation are found in many enteric organisms. In other gram-negative organisms, the ATPase is more divergent, retaining good homology at the DNA level only to the highly conserved phosphorylated subunit of the ATPase. PMID- 2521619 TI - Effect of mutations in the cyclic AMP receptor protein-binding site on araBAD and araC expression. AB - Maximum expression of the adjacent but divergently transcribed araBAD operon and araC gene requires the presence of cyclic AMP (cAMP) and the cAMP receptor protein (CRP). DNase I protection studies have previously revealed a high affinity CRP-binding site in the ara regulatory region. Deletion mutations introduced into this site resulted in reduced expression of araBAD and araC. However, other experiments have demonstrated that spacing changes in the ara regulatory region may have multiple effects due to disruption of a DNA loop. Thus, the deletions could have destroyed the CRP-binding site, the ability to form a loop, or both. In the present study, substitution mutations were introduced into the CRP site in order to avoid creating spacing changes. We found that a 3-base-pair substitution resulted in a 30% reduction in araBAD expression, whereas a 6-base-pair substitution resulted in an 80% reduction. Both of these substitution mutations reduced araC expression threefold. We conclude that CRP bound to this site regulates expression in both directions. We found that a spacing change in the CRP site does not alter araBAD expression any more than does a substitution mutation. PMID- 2521621 TI - Nucleotide sequence and transcriptional organization of the Escherichia coli enterobactin biosynthesis cistrons entB and entA. AB - The nucleotide sequence of a 2,137-base-pair DNA fragment expressing enterobactin biosynthesis functions defined the molecular boundaries and translational products of the entB and entA genes and identified a closely linked downstream open reading frame encoding an uncharacterized protein of approximately 15,000 daltons (P15). The sequence revealed that an independent protein-coding sequence corresponding to an EntG polypeptide was not situated in the genetic region between the entB and entA cistrons, to which the EntG- phonotype had been genetically localized. As a result, the biochemical nature of the EntG function in the biosynthetic pathway requires reevaluation. The EntA polypeptide displayed significant similarities at the amino acid level to the pyridine nucleotide binding domains of several members of a family of alcohol-polyol-sugar dehydrogenase enzymes, consistent with its function as the enzyme catalyzing the final step of dihydroxybenzoate biosynthesis. An additional role for EntA in the isochorismate synthetase activity of EntC was strongly implicated by genetic evidence. Evidence from the nucleotide sequence of this region and newly constructed ent-lacZ fusion plasmids argues strongly that these genes are linked in an iron-regulated entCEBA (P15) polycistronic operon. PMID- 2521622 TI - Nucleotide sequence of a cluster of Escherichia coli enterobactin biosynthesis genes: identification of entA and purification of its product 2,3-dihydro-2,3 dihydroxybenzoate dehydrogenase. AB - The nucleotide sequence of a region of the Escherichia coli chromosome encoding part of a cluster of genes involved in the biosynthesis of the iron chelator enterobactin has been determined. Four closely linked open reading frames, corresponding to the coding regions of entE (carboxy-terminal 144 amino acids), entB (32,554 daltons), entA (26,249 daltons), and an unidentified gene (P15) encoding a 14,970-dalton protein, were found. The lack of intergenic sequences and promoterlike elements suggests that these genes form part of the same transcription unit. We report the purification to homogeneity of the entA product, 2,3-dihydro-2,3-dihydroxybenzoate dehydrogenase. It is an octamer of native molecular weight 210,000; the amino-terminal amino acid sequence confirmed the entA coding region. No isochorismate synthase activity was associated with this polypeptide. This finding leads to the conclusion that the recent suggestion (M. S. Nahlik, T. P. Fleming, and M. A. McIntosh, J. Bacteriol. 169:4163-4170, 1987) that 2,3-dihydro-2,3-dihydroxybenzoate dehydrogenase and isochorismate synthase activities reside on a single 26,000-dalton bifunctional enzyme is incorrect, even though the entA and entC mutations map to the same genetic locus. PMID- 2521624 TI - 2',3'-O-(2,4,6-trinitrophenyl)-8-azido-adenosine mono-, di-, and triphosphates as photoaffinity probes of the Ca2+-ATPase of sarcoplasmic reticulum. Regulatory/superfluorescent nucleotides label the catalytic site with high efficiency. AB - We have synthesized a new class of ATP photo-affinity analogs, 2',3'-O-(2,4,6 trinitrophenyl)-8-azido (TNP-8N3)-ATP, -ADP, and -AMP, and their radiolabeled derivatives, and characterized their interaction with sarcoplasmic reticulum vesicles. The nucleotides bind with high affinity (Kd = 0.04-0.4 microM) to the catalytic site of the Ca2+-ATPase. TNP-8N3-ATP and TNP-8N3-ADP, at low concentrations (less than 10 microM), accelerate ATPase activity 1.5- and 1.4 fold, respectively, indicating that they bind to a regulatory site. In the same concentration range, they all undergo a large increase in fluorescence ("superfluorescence") during enzyme turnover in the presence of ATP and Ca2+, or on phosphorylation from Pi in a Ca2+-depleted medium. Irradiation at alkaline pH results in specific covalent incorporation of the nucleotide at the catalytic site on the A1 tryptic subfragment. The efficiency of catalytic site labeling is greatest (up to 80% of available sites/irradiation period) in the presence of ATP, Ca2+, and Mg2+, conditions in which the probe binds only to the regulatory and superfluorescent sites. The covalently attached nucleotide exhibits fluorescence enhancement on enzyme turnover in the presence of acetyl phosphate plus Ca2+ or on phosphorylation from Pi in a Ca2+-depleted medium, but not in the presence of ATP plus Ca2+. The results suggest that the catalytic, regulatory, and superfluorescent nucleotide sites are at the same locus and that the binding domain includes portions of the A1 subfragment. The high efficiency with which the site is photolabeled during turnover is ascribed to water exclusion and possibly cleft closure in E2-P. PMID- 2521623 TI - Channel architecture in maltoporin: dominance studies with lamB mutations influencing maltodextrin binding provide evidence for independent selectivity filters in each subunit. AB - Maltoporin trimers constitute maltodextrin-selective channels in the outer membrane of Escherichia coli. To study the organization of the maltodextrin binding site within trimers, dominance studies were undertaken with maltoporin variants of altered binding affinity. It has been established that amino acid substitutions at three dispersed regions of the maltoporin sequence (at residues 8, 82, and 360) resulted specifically in maltodextrin-binding defects and loss of maltodextrin channel selectivity; a substitution at residue 118 increased both binding affinity and maltodextrin transport. Strains heterodiploid for lamB were constructed in which these substitutions were encoded by chromosomal and plasmid borne genes, and the relative level of maltoporin expression from these genes was estimated. Binding assays with bacteria forming maltoporin heterotrimers were performed in order to test for complementation between binding-negative alleles, negative dominance of negative over wild-type alleles, and possible dominance of negatives over the high-affinity allele. Double mutants with mutations affecting residues 8 and 118, 82 and 118, and 118 and 360 were constructed in vitro, and the dominance properties of the mutations in cis were also tested. There was no complementation between negatives and no negative dominance in heterotrimers. The high-affinity mutation was dominant over negatives in trans but not in cis. The affinity of binding sites in heterotrimer populations was characteristic of the high-affinity allele present and uninfluenced by the negative allele. These results are consistent with the presence of three discrete binding sites in a maltoporin trimer and suggest that the selectivity filter for maltodextrins is not at the interface between the three subunits. PMID- 2521625 TI - Plasminogen activation initiated by single-chain urokinase-type plasminogen activator. Potentiation by U937 monocytes. AB - The binding of urokinase-type plasminogen activators (u-PA) to receptors on various cell types has been proposed to be an important feature of many cellular processes requiring extracellular proteolysis. We have investigated the effect of single-chain u-PA binding to the monocyte-like cell line U937 on plasminogen activation. A 16-fold acceleration of the activation of plasminogen was observed at optimal concentrations of single-chain u-PA. This potentiation was abolished by the addition of either 6-aminohexanoic acid or the amino-terminal fragment of u-PA, thus demonstrating the requirement for specific binding of both single chain u-PA and plasminogen to the cells. The mechanism of the enhancement of plasmin generation appears to be due primarily to an increase in the rate of feedback activation of single-chain u-PA to the more active two-chain u-PA by cell-bound plasmin, initially generated by single-chain u-PA. This increased activity of the plasminogen activation system in the presence of U937 cells provides a mechanism whereby u-PAs may exert their influence in a variety of cell associated proteolytic events. PMID- 2521626 TI - RecA protein-promoted cleavage of LexA repressor in the presence of ADP and structural analogues of inorganic phosphate, the fluoride complexes of aluminum and beryllium. AB - Complexes formed from A13+ or Be2+ and fluoride inhibit the single-stranded DNA dependent ATPase activity of RecA protein. In contrast, poly(dT)-RecA-ADP complexes, which are inactive for cleavage of LexA protein, become fully active in the presence of AlF4- or BeF3- ions. These data suggest that fluoride complexes of aluminum and beryllium (called herein X) convert RecA-ADP complexes, which bind weakly to single-stranded DNA, into RecA-ADP-X complexes, which bind tightly to single-stranded DNA, the ADP-X moiety behaving as a nonhydrolyzable analogue of ATP. We propose that AlF4- and BeF3- ions act as analogues of inorganic phosphate by binding to the site of the gamma-phosphate of ATP on RecA ADP complexes, hence mimicking the single-stranded DNA-RecA-ADP-Pi transition state. We conclude that the elementary reaction that switches RecA protein from a high affinity single-stranded DNA binding state to a low affinity single-stranded DNA binding state is not ATP hydrolysis per se but Pi release. PMID- 2521627 TI - Molecular characterization of two point mutants in the chloroplast atpB gene of the green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii defective in assembly of the ATP synthase complex. AB - Two point mutants of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, previously found by recombination and complementation analysis to map in the chloroplast atpB gene encoding the beta subunit of the CF1/CF0 ATP synthase, are here shown to be missense alterations near the 5' end of that gene. One mutant (ac-u-c-2-9) has a change at amino acid position 47 of the beta subunit from leucine (CTA) to arginine (CGA). In the second mutant (ac-u-c-2-29), the codon AAA (lysine) is changed to AAC (asparagine) at position 154. Spontaneous revertants of each mutant were isolated that restore the original wild type base pair. Northern analysis of total RNA and in vivo pulse labeling followed by immunoprecipitation reveals that both mutant atpB genes are transcribed and translated normally. However, immunoblots show that the amount of beta subunit associated with mutant thylakoids is only approximately 3% of that seen in wild type and that the CF1 alpha and gamma subunits are missing entirely. The disruption of ATP synthase complex assembly in these mutants is much more severe than in Escherichia coli beta subunit gene point mutants, which retain significant amounts of alpha and beta subunits on their membranes (Noumi, T., Oka, N., Kanazawa, H., and Futai, M. (1986) J. Biol. Chem. 261, 7070-7075). These results support the hypothesis that there are differences in assembly of the ATP synthase between E. coli and chloroplasts. In particular they indicate that beta must be present for assembly of the alpha and gamma subunits of CF1 onto chloroplast membranes. PMID- 2521628 TI - Effect of phosphorylation on the interaction and functional properties of rabbit striated muscle alpha alpha-tropomyosin. AB - Phosphorylated rabbit cardiac alpha alpha-tropomyosin has been prepared either enzymatically (Montgomery, K., and Mak, A.S. (1984) J. Biol. Chem. 259, 5555 5560) or by fractionation of the phosphorylated and nonphosphorylated forms on a Mono Q column in 9 M urea, 50 mM Tris, pH 8.0. Although the phosphorylated and nonphosphorylated forms showed no difference in their F-actin binding properties, the phosphorylated protein had substantially higher viscosities at low ionic strengths, indicating a greater propensity for head-to-tail interaction. Similar measurements showed the strengthening of this interaction by whole troponin to be substantially reduced by phosphorylation even though the binding of whole troponin and troponin T to tropomyosin was demonstrated by affinity chromatography to be, if anything, strengthened by phosphorylation. In a reconstituted actin (4 microM) plus myosin subfragment 1 ATPase assay (50 mM ionic strength), significantly higher activities over a range (1 to 8 microM) of subfragment 1 concentrations were observed with phosphorylated tropomyosin compared with the nonphosphorylated protein. In the fully reconstituted system with troponin, there was no significant difference in the inhibition of ATPase in the absence of Ca2+. However, in its presence, the activities were appreciably increased with the phosphorylated tropomyosin compared to those with the nonphosphorylated form. These differences were eliminated by treatment of the phosphorylated tropomyosin with alkaline phosphatase. This is the first demonstration of an effect of phosphorylation on the functional properties of tropomyosin. PMID- 2521630 TI - Presence of unsulfated heparan chains on the heparan sulfate proteoglycan of human colon carcinoma cells. Implications for heparan sulfate proteoglycan biosynthesis. AB - We provide direct evidence for the presence of unsulfated, but fully elongated heparan glycosaminoglycans covalently linked to the protein core of a heparan sulfate proteoglycan synthesized by human colon carcinoma cells. Chemical and enzymatic studies revealed that a significant proportion of these chains contained glucuronic acid and N-acetylated glucosamine moieties, consistent with N-acetylheparosan, an established precursor of heparin and heparan sulfate. The presence of unsulfated chains was not dependent upon the exogenous supply of sulfate since their synthesis, structure, or relative amount did not vary with low exogenous sulfate concentrations. Culture in sulfate-free medium also failed to generate undersulfated heparan sulfate-proteoglycan, but revealed an endogenous source of sulfate which was primarily derived from the catabolism of the sulfur-containing amino acids methionine and cysteine. Furthermore, the presence of unsulfated chains was not due to a defect in the sulfation process because pulse-chase experiments showed that they could be converted into the fully sulfated chains. However, their formation was inhibited by limiting the endogenous supply of hexosamine. The results also indicated the coexistence of the unsulfated and sulfated chains on the same protein core and further suggested that the sulfation of heparan sulfate may occur as an all or nothing phenomenon. Taken together, the results support the current biosynthetic model developed for the heparin proteoglycan in which unsulfated glycosaminoglycans are first elongated on the protein core, and subsequently modified and sulfated. These data provide the first evidence for the presence of such an unsulfated precursor in an intact cellular system. PMID- 2521631 TI - Heparan sulfate-mediated binding of epithelial cell surface proteoglycan to thrombospondin. AB - Purified NMuMG mouse mammary epithelial cell surface proteoglycan (PG), a membrane-intercalated core protein bearing both heparan sulfate and chondroitin sulfate glycosaminoglycan (GAG) chains, binds to a thrombospondin (TSP) affinity column and is eluted by a salt gradient. Double immunofluorescence microscopy demonstrates extensive co-localization of bound exogenous TSP and cells bearing exposed cell surface PG at their apical surface. The binding, as assayed by both methods, is heparitinase-sensitive, but not chondroitinase-sensitive. Alkali released heparan sulfate chains bind to a TSP affinity column, similarly to native PG, whereas the chrondroitin sulfate chains do not. Core protein does not bind to TSP. These results indicate that NMuMG cells bind TSP via their surface PG and that the binding is mediated by the heparan sulfate chains. PMID- 2521629 TI - Internal image properties of a monoclonal auto-anti-idiotypic antibody and its binding to aldosterone receptors. AB - A monoclonal anti-idiotypic antibody (H10E4C9F) that interacts with the aldosterone receptors was generated using an auto-anti-idiotypic approach by immunizing a mouse with a 3-O-carboxymethyloxime of aldosterone coupled to bovine serum albumin. This antibody, an IgG1, displayed internal image properties of aldosterone and was considered as an Ab2 beta according to the following criteria. (i) H10E bound to Fab fragments of affinity-purified rabbit anti aldosterone antibody that had high affinity for aldosterone (Kd = 5 x 10(-10) M). Binding was inhibited by aldosterone but not by estradiol. (ii) H10E inhibited [3H]aldosterone binding to rabbit polyclonal antibodies and also to murine monoclonal antibodies raised during the same fusion. Inhibition was concentration dependent. These results are consistent with the antibody recognizing an interspecies cross-reacting epitope involved in the aldosterone combining site. (iii) The antibody could be affinity-purified on an immobilized monoclonal anti aldosterone antibody. (iv) It inhibited [3H]aldosterone binding to rabbit kidney cytosolic aldosterone receptors but had no effect on glucocorticoid receptors. Additional evidence for the interaction of H10E with aldosterone receptors was provided by glycerol gradients analyses: the anti-idiotypic antibody displaced [3H]aldosterone and [3H]corticosterone from the native untransformed 9 S aldosterone receptor in the presence of RU 26988, a specific marker of glucocorticoid receptors. All of the above are consistent with the first successful production of a monoclonal antibody that mimics aldosterone and interacts specifically with the steroid binding domain of aldosterone receptors. PMID- 2521632 TI - Differential extension of 3' mispairs is a major contribution to the high fidelity of calf thymus DNA polymerase-alpha. AB - The fidelity of DNA polymerase-alpha-primase from calf thymus has been analyzed by measuring mutagenesis in vitro and by site-specific nucleotide misinsertion and mispair extension. Using the phi X174 am3 DNA reversion assay errors are detected at the amber3 site only when both dATP and dCTP are significantly biased during in vitro copying reactions. Analysis of these products on DNA sequencing gels reveals pause sites due to the slow extension of mispaired 3' termini. Measurements of misinsertion rates opposite template A show that the rates of dAMP or dCMP misinsertion are similar and occur 40-50 times more rapidly than dGMP misinsertion. The rate of extension from an A:C mispair is 100- and 400-fold greater than from an A:A mispair and an A:G mispair, respectively. Nucleotide misinsertions to generate all 12 possible mispairs have been measured kinetically on phi X174 DNA templates that contain either A, C, G, or T at position 587. Misinsertion frequencies range from 1/4000 to 1/10(6) depending on the mispairs generated. Extension from all 12 different mispairs was examined by starting with oligonucleotide primers that contain different 3'-terminal mispairs. Rates of extension from mispairs are 10(3) to 10(6) times slower than from correctly paired bases. Extension frequencies were purine:pyrimidine greater than pyrimidine:pyrimidine greater than purine:purine. Lack of extension of misincorporated bases suggests the involvement of exonucleolytic proofreading to enable continued DNA synthesis and to guarantee the high fidelity of eucaryotic DNA replication. PMID- 2521633 TI - Serine and tyrosine protein kinase activities in Streptococcus pyogenes. Phosphorylation of native and synthetic peptides of streptococcal M proteins. AB - Two forms of protein kinase activity were isolated from crude extracts of Streptococcus pyogenes and partially purified by ion exchange chromatography and affinity chromatography. The phosphorylation activities were shown to be insensitive to cAMP, required the presence of divalent cations, and eluted from a Sephadex G-200 column with approximate molecular masses of 60 and 45 kDa, respectively. Both enzymes were capable of phosphorylating eukaryotic proteins and synthetic polypeptides in addition to endogenous and heterologous prokaryotic proteins at serine and tyrosine residues. Firm evidence for tyrosine kinase activity was obtained by the use of a tyrosine kinase-specific substrate, a 4:1 glutamate:tyrosine copolymer. Both protein kinases phosphorylated HPr, a phosphocarrier protein of the phosphotransferase system isolated from S. pyogenes and Bacillus stearothermophilus, but failed to phosphorylate HPr isolated from Escherichia coli. Both also phosphorylated a native polypeptide fragment (pep M24) as well as synthetic peptide copies of M protein, the major virulence determinant of group A streptococci. These results indicate that prokaryotic protein kinases are capable of phosphorylating eukaryotic proteins and suggest that the protein kinases of streptococci may play an important role not only in the phosphotransferase system but also in the virulence properties of these organisms. PMID- 2521635 TI - Molecular cloning and expression of cDNA encoding the 53,000-dalton glycoprotein of rabbit skeletal muscle sarcoplasmic reticulum. AB - The 53-kDa glycoprotein of rabbit skeletal muscle sarcoplasmic reticulum was purified by lentil lectin affinity chromatography and preparative polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and partially sequenced. Polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies were raised against the 53-kDa glycoprotein and found to cross-react with the 160 kDa glycoprotein. A combination of antibody and synthetic oligonucleotide screening was used to isolate a cDNA encoding the 53-kDa glycoprotein of rabbit fast-twitch skeletal muscle sarcoplasmic reticulum. The cDNA encodes a protein of 453 amino acids with Mr of 52,421 and a 19-residue amino-terminal signal sequence. The deduced sequence contains two potential glycosylation sites and is largely hydrophilic. The presence of a glycine-rich sequence in the glycoprotein with homology to mononucleotide binding domains supports earlier observations that the glycoprotein binds ATP with high affinity. Although two sequences appear to be hydrophobic on a hydropathy plot, they are not sufficiently long nor sufficiently hydrophobic to qualify unambiguously as transmembrane sequences. The glycoprotein, like calsequestrin, was shown to be inaccessible to trypsin in intact sarcoplasmic reticulum. It can be eluted from the sarcoplasmic reticulum by extraction with [ethylenebis(oxyethylenenitrilo)]tetraacetic acid under hypotonic conditions. Thus, the glycoprotein appears to be localized entirely in the lumen of the sarcoplasmic reticulum and to be associated with the inner membrane surface through Ca2+-dependent mechanisms. Cotransfection of COS-1 cells with cDNAs encoding the glycoprotein and the Ca2+-ATPase led to expression of both proteins with a common localization in the microsomal fraction. The Ca2+ pumping activity of the microsomes isolated from transfected cells was unaltered by the presence of the glycoprotein. Thus the glycoprotein does not appear to modulate Ca2+-ATPase function. PMID- 2521634 TI - Proteolytic processing of the beta-subunit of the lysosomal enzyme, beta hexosaminidase, in normal human fibroblasts. AB - We have characterized the proteolytic processing of the beta-subunit of beta hexosaminidase by identifying the amino termini of the various forms synthesized in cell-free translation and in cultured human fibroblasts. The procedures used had been developed for similar studies of the alpha-subunit (Little, L. E., Lau, M. M. H., Quon, D. V. K., Fowler, A. V., and Neufeld, E. F. (1988) J. Biol. Chem. 263, 4288-4292). Radioactive amino acids were incorporated biosynthetically into the different forms of the beta-subunit, which were isolated by immunoprecipitation, gel electrophoresis, and electroelution, and analyzed by automated Edman degradation. Translation by reticulocyte lysate in the presence of canine pancreas microsomes gave a product with alanine 43 at the amino terminus. The lysate could initiate translation at methionine 1 or methionine 13, depending on the SP6 mRNA provided. The product of signal peptidase action, the precursor form of the beta-subunit with amino-terminal alanine 43, was found in NH4+-induced secretions of cultured fibroblasts; intracellularly, this form was trimmed of two additional amino acids. The mature form was found to consist of three polypeptides joined by disulfide bonds; the amino termini were found to be valine 48, threonine 122, and lysine 315. Thus, in contrast to the alpha-subunit, the mature form of the beta-subunit of beta-hexosaminidase is derived from the precursor by internal proteolytic nicking rather than by removal of a large amino terminal peptide segment. PMID- 2521636 TI - Effect of dexamethasone on prostaglandin synthesis and on lipocortin status in human endothelial cells. Inhibition of prostaglandin I2 synthesis occurring without alteration of arachidonic acid liberation and of lipocortin synthesis. AB - Glucocorticoids have been shown to decrease prostaglandin I2 synthesis in human endothelial cells, suggesting the possible involvement of lipocortin in the inhibition of arachidonic acid liberation achieved by phospholipase A2 (De Caterina, R., and Weksler, B. B. (1986) Thromb. Haemostasis 55, 369-374). To test this hypothesis, human endothelial cells labeled with [14C]arachidonic acid were stimulated with thrombin (2 units/ml, 10 min), resulting in the secretion of free arachidonic acid together with various 14C-labeled metabolites, mainly 6-keto prostaglandin F1 alpha, the stable derivative of prostaglandin I2. Under conditions where prior incubation of cells with dexamethasone reduced by 51% 6 keto-prostaglandin F1 alpha production, phospholipid hydrolysis induced by thrombin remained unaffected. Using three rabbit polyclonal antibodies directed against endonexin I, lipocortin I, and lipocortin II, evidence was obtained for the presence in human endothelial cells of equivalent amounts of lipocortin I and an immunologically unrelated 33-kDa protein, together with lower quantities of 67 kDa calelectrin/calcimedin. These Ca2+- and phospholipid-binding proteins were selectively extracted with [ethylene-bis(oxyethylene-nitrilo)]tetraacetic acid (EGTA) from cell membranes precipitated in the presence of Ca2+, and they displayed an inhibitory activity against pig pancreas phospholipase A2. However, the amounts of the three proteins were not changed by cell treatment with 2.5 microM dexamethasone, as detected upon polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis by silver staining, immunoblotting, or autoradiography following [35S]methionine in vivo labeling. Since the antiphospholipase A2 activity of EGTA extracts was hardly modified, it was concluded that an increased synthesis of lipocortin cannot account for the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis brought about by dexamethasone, suggesting other biological functions for these proteins. PMID- 2521637 TI - Characterization of the major heparan sulfate proteoglycan secreted by bovine aortic endothelial cells in culture. Homology to the large molecular weight molecule of basement membranes. AB - To determine the precise architecture and functional characteristics of the subendothelial basal lamina, detailed information of the molecules contained in this structure is required. To this end, we have studied low passage bovine aortic endothelial cells and have isolated the major heparan sulfate-containing proteoglycan from the growth medium of the cells maintained under static culture conditions. This large macromolecule consists of a core protein approximately 500,000 daltons in mass and two to three glycan side chains as revealed by carbon/platinum rotary shadow casting. Specific antibodies raised by immunization of rabbits with the native or deglycosylated bovine molecule could be isolated from an immunoadsorption column prepared with a preparation isolated from the murine Engelbreth-Holm-Swarm tumor. The antibodies purified by immunoaffinity react with basement membranes of blood vessels, lung, liver, or skin, and this reactivity is indistinguishable, at least for the organs studied, from the reactivity of antibodies specific for the Engelbreth-Holm-Swarm tumor-derived high molecular weight heparan sulfate proteoglycan isolated previously. Immunoelectron microscopy of frozen ultrathin tissue sections from the kidney indicates localization of the epitope(s) also in the basement membranes of the renal glomeruli and tubuli. The close structural relationship and homology between the aortic endothelial cell product can be demonstrated even more convincingly by two-dimensional peptide mapping procedures. The peptide patterns from the bovine and mouse products of approximately 500 kDa are nearly indistinguishable. Maps of polypeptides of molecular masses ranging from 400 to 150 kDa, which are found in the bovine as well mouse tumor preparation, are clearly related to each other and suggest that this proteoglycan is quite sensitive to degradation by tissue proteases. Thus the data presented here strongly suggest that the large proteoglycan previously isolated and described as a tumor cell product can be produced by normal cells. PMID- 2521638 TI - Cold inactivation of vacuolar proton-ATPases. AB - Incubation of the reconstituted H+-ATPase from chromaffin granules on ice resulted in inactivation of the proton-pumping and ATPase activities of the enzyme. Inactivation was dependent on the presence of Mg2+, Cl-, and ATP during the incubation at low temperature. Approximately 1 mM ATP, 1 mM Mg2+, and 200 mM Cl- were required for maximum inactivation. Incubation for about 10 min on ice was required to achieve 50% inactivation. A much smaller decline in activity was observed when the enzyme was incubated at room temperature with the same chemicals. Inactivation in the cold resulted in the release of five polypeptides from the membrane with apparent molecular masses of 72, 57, 41, 34, and 33 kDa on sodium dodecyl sulfate gels. Three of the polypeptides of 72, 57, and 34 kDa were identified as subunits of vacuolar H+-ATPases by antibody cross-reactivity. Similar results were obtained with several other vacuolar H+-ATPases including those from plant sources. It was concluded that the catalytic sector of the enzyme is released from the H+-ATPase complex by cold treatment, resulting in inactivation of the enzyme. PMID- 2521639 TI - Hormone status in patients with slipped capital femoral epiphysis. AB - In 15 consecutive patients with slipped capital femoral epiphysis we recorded height, weight and skeletal maturity. Sexual maturity was assessed clinically and biochemically, and Harris's hypothesis that there is an increased ratio of serum growth hormone to oestrogen was tested in comparison with 15 age and sex matched controls. We found no difference in skeletal or sexual maturity between the groups, or any overt endocrine abnormality in the patients. However almost half the patients with slipped epiphysis were over the 90th weight percentile, suggesting that mechanical factors such as obesity are more important aetiologically than endocrine abnormalities. PMID- 2521640 TI - Surgical management of the severely multiply handicapped individual. AB - Thirty-four surgical procedures were performed over a 12-year period on a select population of severely multiply handicapped individuals. Heel cord lengthening, hamstring and adductor releases, as well as selected osteotomies, tenotomies, and arthrodeses (both wrist and foot) were performed. The objectives were improvement in sitting posture, care, and comfort. Independent evaluations of active function, passive function, cosmesis, self-esteem, limb posture, and ease of dressing and hygiene were assessed. Significant improvement was generally noted. No patient was made worse. Selected procedures in the severely multiply handicapped individual have a definite place in patient management. PMID- 2521641 TI - Effect of nadolol on flushing reactions in rosacea. AB - The effect of nadolol versus placebo on both flushing provoked in a laboratory setting and spontaneous flushing was studied in 15 patients with erythematous telangiectatic rosacea. The intensity of the flushing reactions was assessed in the laboratory by the cutaneous perfusion index method with laser-Doppler velocimetry. No effect of nadolol on the flushing reactions provoked in the laboratory was detected. PMID- 2521642 TI - American Academy of Dermatology invitational symposium on comedogenicity. PMID- 2521643 TI - Bone lesions of acne fulminans. Case report and review of the literature. AB - Acne fulminans, which is the most severe form of acne, affects mainly teenage men; its pathogenesis is unknown. In its most severe form bone lesions may occur, and although they appear to be transient, they cause considerable discomfort to the patient. Roentgenologically these lesions are not well defined, and often biopsies are performed to rule out malignancy or infection. The result of bone biopsies has, however, always been reported to be benign, as they are in this case. We report a case of acne fulminans with a distinct presentation of bone lesion in a technetium 99 scan and findings of high levels of C3 and C4 and low levels of serum estradiol. These changes have not been described before and are contrary to previously published findings. PMID- 2521644 TI - Effect of imipramine treatment on the prolactin response to fenfluramine and placebo challenge in depressed patients. AB - As an index of central serotonergic function, plasma prolactin response to fenfluramine (60 mg orally) and placebo challenge was examined in 10 depressed patients before and after treatment with imipramine 200 mg/day for 3 weeks. Although baseline prolactin levels were not altered by imipramine, the prolactin response to fenfluramine was significantly (P = 0.01) increased compared to the response in the untreated state. The response to placebo was also enhanced but this effect was of lesser magnitude and not statistically significant. These findings complement previous reports and suggest that tricyclic antidepressant treatment enhances serotonergically mediated neuroendocrine responses. PMID- 2521645 TI - A statistical analysis of the classification of depression in a mixed community and clinical sample. AB - Depressive symptoms in three samples are assessed using grade-of-membership analysis to clarify the distribution of depressive symptoms across traditional affective diagnoses. The technique is used to examine whether depressive symptoms and symptoms frequently associated with depressive disorders cluster into recognizable syndromes or pure types that parallel current operational diagnoses. Three hundred and ninety subjects were studied to address the question: among a mixed population with a range of depressive symptoms, will syndromes resembling endogenous depression and demoralization emerge from the range of presentation of depressive symptoms? A single pure type is nearly identical to the DSM-III classification of major depression with melancholia. No such pure type emerged that resembled demoralization. PMID- 2521646 TI - Psychogenic pain and depressive disorders: an empirical study. AB - A sample of 31 patients of both sexes suffering from psychogenic pain disorder (DSM-III) were studied in order to test if their clinical and biological features as well as their response to antidepressant treatment support the hypothesis that relates this syndrome to depressive disorders. Biological variables were basal cortisol and dexamethasone suppression test, and treatment consisted of daily administration of 100-175 mg of imipramine for a period of 5 months. Mood state was evaluated by the Hamilton scale and pain was assessed through visual analogue scales immediately before starting treatment and 3 months later. There was a low prevalence of non-suppressors (9.6%) and all patients significantly improved in mood and pain after antidepressant treatment. However, general results support both the hypothesis linking psychogenic pain to depressive disorders and its possible understanding in terms of failed adjustment processes. PMID- 2521647 TI - Decreased plasma tryptophan levels in major depression. AB - Total plasma tryptophan was significantly lower in 12 depressed patients than in 12 normal controls. The ratio of total tryptophan to neutral amino acids was also decreased in the depressed patients suggesting that tryptophan availability to the brain might be reduced. There was no correlation between basal tryptophan concentrations in the depressed subjects and the subsequent neuroendocrine response to intravenous tryptophan. PMID- 2521648 TI - Prevalence of migraine and muscle tension headache in depressive disorders. AB - This study was undertaken in order to evaluate the prevalence of headache and its subtypes (migraine, muscle tension headache, cluster and psychogenic headache) in a population of 160 depressed patients. Headache was present in 83 subjects (51.9%); 36 (22.5%) were affected by migraine, 39 (24.4%) by muscle tension headache, six (3.7%) by psychogenic headache and two (1.2%) by cluster headache. No significant differences in the prevalence of migraine and muscle tension headache were observed among patients with major depression, bipolar depressive disorder and dysthymic disorder. These data speak against a specific correlation among subtypes of headache and depressive disorders. PMID- 2521649 TI - Postulated genetic linkage between manic-depression and stuttering. AB - We record pedigrees of three families in which stuttering and bipolar illnesses are found. An association between the two conditions is demonstrated, and linkage analysis suggests that the respective genes could occur at linked loci. The implications of this finding are noted. PMID- 2521650 TI - Impaired mitogen-induced lymphocyte responses and the hypothalamic-pituitary adrenal axis in depressive disorders. AB - The lymphocyte stimulation responses to the mitogens phytohemagglutinin (PHA), concanavalin A (Con A) and pokeweed (PWM) were investigated in 30 hospitalized depressed women undergoing a dexamethasone suppression test (DST). Patients were classified according to DSM-III as having major depression with melancholia, without melancholia, and minor depression. The Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) were measured. Patients with major depression showed significantly decreased lymphocyte stimulation induced by PHA, Con A, and PWM as compared to those with minor depression. These differences could not be attributed to age, body weight, weight loss, total number of leukocytes, menopausal status, sleep disturbances, concomitant use of low-dosage benzodiazepines or length of drug-free period before testing. The group mean differences in lymphocyte stimulation counts were not affected by the severity of illness or the severity of state and trait anxiety. There were no significant differences in the lymphocyte responses to PHA, Con A, and PWM between DST non suppressors and DST suppressors. No significant correlations were established between baseline and post dexamethasone cortisol values and the lymphocyte stimulation counts. PMID- 2521651 TI - Secondary depression in panic disorder and agoraphobia. II. Dimensions of depressive symptomatology and their response to treatment. AB - Secondary depressive symptomatology in 435 subjects with panic disorder and phobic avoidance was studied before and after alprazolam treatment. No subject who had a primary affective disorder was included. Calculation of Hamilton Depression Rating Scale factor scores revealed that the agitation/anxiety, sleep disturbance, and somatization factors accounted for approximately 75% of the HAM D total score; these all showed significant improvement with alprazolam treatment. There were few differences in dimensions of depressive symptomatology between those subjects with and those without major depression; the main difference was in the overall intensity of the depression. PMID- 2521652 TI - Plasma dexamethasone and cortisol levels in depressed outpatients. AB - We investigated the 1-mg dexamethasone suppression test (DST) in 41 outpatients with major depressive disorder assessing the role of dexamethasone blood level, age and basal cortisol on DST results. Non-suppressors (approximately 25% of patients) had lower dexamethasone levels, and post-dexamethasone cortisol was negatively correlated with plasma dexamethasone; these findings were more significant after covarying out age and basal cortisol, factors that were also significantly associated to non-suppressors. A subgroup of patients (n = 19) also had 0.75-mg and 2.0-mg DST to evaluate whether a threshold dexamethasone blood level existed; a dexamethasone blood level greater than 1.5 ng/ml converted all non-suppressors to suppressors. Implications of these findings are discussed. PMID- 2521653 TI - Relative response of endogenous and non-endogenous symptoms to electroconvulsive therapy. AB - A sample of patients with endogenous depression (RDC), who had only a partial response to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), was identified from a larger group of patients participating in a study of the affective and cognitive effects of low-dose titrated ECT. Using symptom scores on the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression, subscales were constructed to reflect Klein's formulation of endogenomorphic depression, the RDC for endogenous subtype, and the DSM-III criteria for melancholia. Regardless of the subscale used, no evidence was obtained that endogenous symptoms were more responsive to ECT than non-endogenous symptoms. PMID- 2521654 TI - Secular trend in unipolar depression: a hypothesis. AB - To address the observation of a secular trend in the incidence of major depression, we have evaluated prevalence of unipolar depression in first-degree relatives of unipolar depressed probands, all of whom were studied in the sleep laboratory. A threshold value of reduced (less than or equal to 65.0 min) or non reduced (greater than 65.0 min) REM latency was used to define groups for both parents and siblings. Unipolar depression occurred at the same rate in both reduced REM latency siblings (57.1%) and parents (66.7%). Siblings with non reduced REM latency had a higher rate of depression (36.8%) than non-reduced REM latency parents (0.0%). Implications for biological and environmental factors associated with liability for unipolar depression are discussed. PMID- 2521656 TI - Depressive symptoms in bulimic, depressed, and non-psychiatric control subjects. AB - Depressive symptoms and syndromes occur commonly in bulimia--an observation which has prompted some investigators to hypothesize an association between bulimia and major affective disorder. However, it has also been suggested that the character of the depressive symptoms in bulimic patients differs from that found in patients with major depression--arguing against an association between the two disorders. To test this possibility, we compared item scores on the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression among 45 bulimic patients, 21 patients in treatment for major depression, and 27 non-psychiatric control subjects. The bulimic and depressed patients proved indistinguishable on virtually all items, whereas both groups were readily distinguishable from non-psychiatric control subjects. PMID- 2521655 TI - Reliability of life event assessments: test-retest reliability and fall-off effects of the Munich Interview for the Assessment of Life Events and Conditions. AB - This paper presents the findings of two independent studies which examined the test-retest reliability and the fall-off effects of the Munich Life Event List (MEL). The MEL is a three-step interview procedure for assessing life incidents which focuses on recognition processes rather than free recall. In a reliability study, test-retest coefficients of the MEL, based on a sample of 42 subjects, were quite stable over a 6-week interval. Stability for severe incidents appeared to be higher than for the less severe ones. In the fall-off study, a total rate of 30% fall-off was noted for all incidents reported retrospectively over an 8 year period. A more detailed analysis revealed average monthly fall-off effects of 0.36%. The size of fall-off effects was higher for non-severe and positive incidents than for severe incidents. This was particularly evident for the symptomatic groups. Non-symptomatic males reported a higher overall number of life incidents than females. This was partly due to more frequent reporting of severe incidents. The findings of the fall-off study do not support the common belief that the reliability of life incident report is much worse when the assessment period is extended over a period of several years as compared to the traditional 6-month period. PMID- 2521657 TI - Hypersensitivity to zimelidine without cross reactivity to fluoxetine. PMID- 2521658 TI - The induction of T cell unresponsiveness by rapidly modulating CD3. AB - The immunomodulatory effects of an IgM anti-CD3 mAb (38.1) were investigated. 38.1 was distinct from other anti-CD3 mAb, in that it was rapidly modulated from the cell surface in the absence of a secondary antibody. Although 38.1 induced an immediate increase in intracellular free calcium [Ca2+]i by highly purified T cells, it did not induce entry of the cells into the cell cycle in the absence of accessory cells (AC) or a protein kinase C-activating phorbol ester. Clearing of 38.1 from the surface of AC-depleted T cells, documented both by immunofluorescence and by functional activity, was rapid, with markedly reduced levels of initially bound mAb observed after a 1 to 2 h incubation at 37 degrees C and complete modulation noted after a 5-h incubation. Despite rapid modulation of 38.1, the T cells continued to express substantial amounts of surface CD3, suggesting there is a rapid rate of turnover of CD3 molecules on resting T cells. After modulation of 38.1 bound CD3, T cells were markedly inhibited in their capacity to respond to PHA. Inhibition could be overcome by culturing the cells with supplemental AC or IL-2. The inhibitory effects of 38.1 could be mimicked by briefly pulsing cells with the calcium ionophore, ionomycin, that had no effect on surface expression of CD3. 38.1- or ionomycin-pulsed cells were inhibited in their subsequent response to PHA even when exposures were carried out in the presence of EGTA to prevent increases in [Ca2+]i from extracellular sources. Inhibition could not be accounted for by an inability of the ionomycin-treated or 38.1-modulated T cells to increase [Ca2+]i in response to PHA. These studies demonstrate that a state of T cell nonresponsiveness can be induced by modulating CD3 with an anti-CD3 mAb in the absence of co-stimulatory signals. A brief increase in [Ca2+]i resulting from mobilization of internal calcium stores appears to be sufficient to induce this state of T cell nonresponsiveness. PMID- 2521659 TI - Multiple low dose streptozotocin induces systemic MHC expression in mice by triggering T cells to release IFN-gamma. AB - Multiple low dose streptozotocin (STZ) is believed to induce immunologically mediated islet cell necrosis. We sought to establish whether this agent also increased MHC expression, as has been reported for other diabetes models. STZ (40 mg/kg/day for 5 days) produced increased levels of both class I and II MHC products in kidney, liver, heart, and pancreas. Class I expression was induced in renal tubular cells, Kupffer cells, hepatocytes, occasional cardiac myocytes, and cells within the pancreatic islet. In contrast, class II products were increased in dendritic cells, renal tubules, and cells within the pancreatic islet. Steady state mRNA levels for class I, class II, and beta 2-microglobulin correlate closely with the level of MHC products measured by radiolabeled antibody binding, suggesting that changes in MHC expression reflect changes in gene transcription. The effect is T cell dependent and inhibitable by cyclosporine. IFN-gamma is an essential mediator of the MHC induction; administration of a neutralizing antibody blocks the increase in expression. Furthermore, this antibody attenuates the hyperglycemic response to STZ, demonstrating a pathogenic role for IFN-gamma in mediating beta cell damage. We conclude that the MHC induction observed after low dose STZ is due to immunologic mechanisms, in particular the release of lymphokines such as IFN-gamma from T cells. The release of IFN-gamma and changes in MHC expression may be relevant to the injury seen with this agent. PMID- 2521660 TI - In vitro manipulation of human anti-DNA antibody production by anti-idiotypic antibodies conjugated with neocarzinostatin. AB - Anti-DNA Id, 0-81, consist of 5 to 51% of Id in human anti-ssDNA antibodies; NE-1 Id shares 2 to 20% of those in anti-dsDNA antibodies. Thus, both 0-81-Id and NE-1 Id are of the cross-reactive Id that are commonly present among anti-DNA antibodies. In order to manipulate the production of anti-DNA antibodies by human PBL, we used mouse antiidiotypic mAb or those conjugated with a cytotoxic agent, neocarzinostatin. Treatment with the conjugates caused profound suppression of anti-ssDNA and anti-dsDNA antibody synthesis related to 0-81- and NE-1-Id. This was attributed to the specific killing of the clones bearing anti-DNA Id among the lymphocytes, evidenced by the indirect rosette formation tests. The Id mediated suppression was not solely due to selective elimination of Id-positive B cells, because 50 to 92% of anti-DNA antibodies were suppressed by treatment with the conjugates. This was supported by flow cytometry analysis that showed a decrease of anti-Id-reactive cells when T cells were treated with the conjugates. This method, then, will permit an analysis of the question as to whether T cells reactive to anti-idiotypic antibodies might participate in the regulatory mechanism for anti-DNA production and, in addition, may lead to a new therapy for SLE. PMID- 2521661 TI - Chymotryptic-type protease inhibitors block the increase in Ca2+ and Il-2 production in activated Jurkat T cells. AB - Several chymotryptic-type protease inhibitors were found to inhibit both anti-CD3 mAb- and PHA-induced rise in Ca2+ and IL-2 production in Jurkat T cells. The magnitude of inhibition was a function of the effectors used to stimulate Ca2+ entry and depended on the concentration of the inhibitors. Neither tryptic-type protease inhibitors nor an elastase substrate prevented anti-CD3 mAb- or PHA induced Ca2+ rise in Jurkat cells. The inhibitory effect of N-alpha-p-tosyl-L phenylalanine chloromethyl-ketone on anti-CD3 mAb- and PHA-induced rise in Ca2+ resulted from a rapid increase in Ca2+ efflux. The inhibitors which were effective on Ca2+ mobilization also inhibited IL-2 production initiated by an anti-CD3 mAb in the presence of 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate, and to a lesser extent by PHA or the calcium ionophore A23187. No inhibition of IL-2 production was observed when tryptic-type protease inhibitors or the elastase inhibitor were used. In addition, membrane preparations from Jurkat cells were found to hydrolyze the chymotryptic substrate Suc-Ala-Ala-Phe-paranitroaniline, an effect markedly inhibited by N-alpha-p-tosyl-L-phenylalanine chloromethylketone. Moreover, this inhibitor protected one potential endogenous substrate (Mr 38 kDa) from proteolysis. Taken together, these observations show that chymotryptic-type protease inhibitors block the responses generated by the binding of anti-CD3 mAb to Jurkat cells, and suggest that a chymotryptic-like membrane protease contributes to T cell activation. PMID- 2521662 TI - Anti-CD3 + IL-2-stimulated murine killer cells. In vitro generation and in vivo antitumor activity. AB - The growth, phenotype, in vitro cytolytic characteristics, and in vivo antitumor activity of murine splenocytes stimulated with anti-murine CD3 mAb in combination with IL-2 as compared with IL-2 alone was investigated. When cultured for 12 days with anti-CD3 mAb + IL-2, murine splenocytes increased 100- to 4000-fold in number compared with only 6- to 20-fold for cultures stimulated with IL-2 alone. Anti-CD3 mAb + IL-2 activated cultures developed high lymphokine-activated killer activity against NK-resistant targets including the P815 mastocytoma cell line and fresh MCA 106 sarcoma. Peak cytotoxicity on a per cell basis developed by day 8 after anti-CD3 mAb + IL-2 activation. A large proportion of the total cytolytic activity of long term anti-CD3 mAb + IL-2-stimulated cultures was related to the presence of anti-CD3 in the assay, indicating enhancement of cytotoxicity by activated CD3+ T cells. Phenotypic analysis indicated that anti-CD3 mAb + IL-2 stimulated cultures contained heterogeneous populations of T cells with increased percentages of both CD4+ and CD8+ phenotypes compared with cultures stimulated with IL-2 alone. Anti-CD3 mAb + IL-2-stimulated cells were tested for their in vivo antitumor activity by using C57BL/6 mice bearing MCA 106 sarcoma pulmonary metastases. IL-2-activated murine killer cells were given in combination with in vivo IL-2 and indomethacin, the latter of which was shown to potentiate the antitumor effect of IL-2. When given on day 5 after tumor inoculation, cell doses as low as 5 x 10(6) anti-CD3 mAb + IL-2-stimulated cells per mouse significantly reduced the number of pulmonary metastases (p less than 0.005). Thus, activation with the combination of anti-CD3 mAb + IL-2 produces rapidly expanding cultures of cytolytic cells with demonstrated in vivo antitumor efficacy. PMID- 2521664 TI - Suppression of purified protein derivative-induced interleukin-2 production by interaction of CD16 (Leu 11 reactive) lymphocytes and adherent mononuclear cells in tuberculosis. PMID- 2521663 TI - Clinical experience with zidovudine for patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome and acquired immune deficiency syndrome-related complex. AB - We have treated 113 patients with zidovudine since its licensure, 80 with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome and 33 with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome related complex. This paper reports on the efficacy and toxicity observed in these patients. Improved well-being, reduced frequency and severity of opportunist infections were notable in the first year of follow-up. More rapid improvement in pulmonary physiological tests during recovery from Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia was also observed in treated patients. Patients with lower initial platelet counts showed early increases in platelet counts. There was a consistent fall in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) p24 antigen during treatment, although not always to undetectable levels. CD4 cell counts showed a rise in the first months of treatment but these were not sustained, despite continuing clinical benefit. Neuropsychological and clinical evidence of benefit in HIV encephalopathy are described. We have analysed the factors influencing marrow toxicity and have found that low CD4 count and the intercurrent use of ganciclovir and dapsone increase myelotoxicity. We describe the clinical and biochemical features of the myopathy associated with long-term use of zidovudine and summarise our findings on dose-reduction associated meningo-encephalitis. PMID- 2521665 TI - Binding of plasma fibronectin to human polymorphonuclear leukocytes in normal subjects and patients with aplastic anemia and thyroid dysfunction. AB - The binding of iodine 125-labeled fibronectin to polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) from human peripheral blood was examined. The optimum temperature and time for the binding were 37 degrees C and 30 minutes, respectively. On increase in the amount of 125I-labeled fibronectin, its binding to PMNs became saturated. Scatchard analysis of data on binding indicated the presence of a single class of binding sites. PMNs from 15 normal subjects had approximately 6.3 +/- 1.6 x 10(3) sites per cell and a dissociation constant of 10.2 +/- 2.4 x 10(-9) mol/L, indicating that they had high affinity for soluble fibronectin. Arg-Gly-Asp-Ser inhibited the binding of fibronectin to PMNs, strongly suggesting that the fibronectin receptor is one of the Arg-Gly-Asp receptor family. The plasma level of fibronectin was higher in patients with hyperthyroidism and lower in patients with hypothyroidism than in normal subjects, without any significant change in the number of fibronectin binding sites of the PMNs. However, the number of binding sites of fibronectin on PMNs of patients with aplastic anemia was increased, probably because of sensitization of the PMNs with immune complex and other factors. PMID- 2521666 TI - Macrophage subset repopulation in the spleen: differential kinetics after liposome-mediated elimination. AB - Different macrophage subsets can be discriminated in the well defined compartments of the mouse spleen by specialized functions and the presence of specific surface determinants. Red pulp macrophages, marginal zone macrophages, and marginal metallophilic macrophages are eliminated simultaneously within 24 hr by a single injection with liposome-entrapped dichloromethylene diphosphonate (DMDP). After such elimination, these subsets show a striking difference in their kinetics of reappearance: Red pulp macrophages are back in normal numbers after 1 week, the marginal metallophilic macrophages take 2 weeks to regain fully their position at the border of the marginal zone and periarteriolar lymphocyte sheath, but it takes over 1 month for complete reappearance of the marginal zone macrophages. Marginal zone lymphocytes, also affected by treatment with the liposome-entrapped drug, reappeared in the marginal zone within 2 weeks, indicating that marginal zone macrophages are not required for their localization and/or retention there. Approximately 2 weeks after treatment, all cells in the spleen have returned to normal numbers with the exception of marginal zone macrophages, which can be found only sporadically at that time. The results indicate that these macrophage subpopulations must have different precursor requirements. The differential reappearance of the macrophages creates the possibility of studying lineage analysis and will help to unravel the precise function of the marginal zone macrophages and marginal metallophilic macrophages in particular. PMID- 2521668 TI - A urethane dimethacrylate (UDMA) microfilled composite bonded weakly to BIS-GMA composite, therefore their combined use should be avoided. PMID- 2521667 TI - Inadequacy of health care for the nation's chronically ill children. AB - There are approximately 750,000 children in the United States with a severe chronic illness. The organization of health services for these children is characterized by diversity, fragmentation, and high expense. Moreover, the sources of financial support for this care typically leave many gaps in coverage. The families of these children face many years of mounting medical bills with little help in sight. A need exists for the establishment of a national policy that will provide an organized system of health care for the nation's chronically ill children. This policy must address current inadequacies and provide comprehensive ongoing care for these children and their families. PMID- 2521669 TI - Interaction of putative vasopressin receptor proteins of rat brain and bovine pituitary gland with an antibody against a nanopeptide encoded by the reverse message of the complementary mRNA to vasopressin. AB - An antibody directed against the reverse message of the complementary mRNA for arginine vasopressin was demonstrated to be immunoreactive with 62 and 55 kdalton proteins, obtained by affinity chromatography of rat brain and bovine posterior pituitary extracts and believed to be associated with the vasopressin binding site. A similar pattern of immunoreactivity was seen with an anti-idiotypic antibody for arginine vasopressin. PMID- 2521670 TI - [125I]-[d(CH2)5, Sar7]AVP: a selective radioligand for V1 vasopressin receptors. AB - Arginine8-vasopressin (AVP) acts on vascular and hepatic V1 receptors to influence blood pressure and glycogenolysis respectively. We have radioiodinated the AVP V1 receptor antagonist, [1-(beta-mercapto-beta, beta cyclopentamethylenepropionic-acid), 7-sarcosine, 8-arginine] vasopressin ([d(CH2)5, Sar7]AVP) and determined its receptor-binding properties in rat liver and kidney plasma membranes. The binding was of high affinity to single classes of receptors (liver: Kd = 3.0 nM and Bmax = 530 +/- 10 fmol/mg protein, kidney: Kd = 0.5 +/- 0.9 nM and Bmax = 11 +/- 8 fmol/mg protein). Competition of [125I] [d(CH2)5, Sar7]AVP binding by unlabelled AVP analogues gave the following order of potency in both tissues, consistent with that expected for binding to a V1 receptor: [d(CH2)5, Tyr(Me)2]AVP greater than AVP greater than [d(CH2)5, D-Ile2, Ile4] AVP greater than DDAVP. No degradation of [125I]-[d(CH2)5, Sar7]AVP during incubation or storage was detected by HPLC analysis. We have used [125I] [d(CH2)5, Sar7]AVP and in vitro autoradiography to demonstrate its use in localizing brain AVP receptors. These studies suggest that [125I]-[d(CH2)5, Sar7]AVP is a suitable selective radioligand for labelling V1 receptors and will provide a valuable tool for the study of the localization and regulation of AVP V1 receptors in tissues and in receptor isolation. PMID- 2521671 TI - Is a Ca2+ -ATPase involved in Ca2+ regulation during capacitation and the acrosome reaction of guinea-pig spermatozoa? AB - The Ca2+-ATPase antagonists quercetin and ethacrynic acid accelerated the onset of the acrosome reaction in guinea-pig spermatozoa incubated in the continuous presence of Ca2+, whereas furosemide had no effect, and sodium orthovanadate only affected sperm motility. When spermatozoa were preincubated in a 'Ca2+-free' medium, quercetin and ethacrynic acid shortened capacitation time: spermatozoa incubated for 1 h in 100-200 microM-ethacrynic acid showed 60-80% acrosome reactions when Ca2+ was added. Such spermatozoa were able to fertilize zona-free hamster eggs. Our results therefore point to the possible involvement of a Ca2+ ATPase in the regulation of intracellular Ca2+ in spermatozoa. Cysteine and dithiothreitol, both disulphide reducing agents, prevented the effects of quercetin and ethacrynic acid, suggesting that sulphydryl groups may be important for the expression of Ca2+-ATPase activity. Lysophosphatidylserine (LS) also prevented the stimulatory effect of ethacrynic acid, an effect similar to that shown by LS on lysophosphatidylcholine (LC). It is argued that both LS and LC could exert their action through an effect on the Ca2+-ATPase. PMID- 2521673 TI - Prenatal sonographic diagnosis of a vesico-allantoic abdominal wall defect. PMID- 2521672 TI - Comparison of IgG Fc receptors from clinical isolates of Streptococcus zooepidemicus. AB - A receptor binding the Fc region of equine immunoglobulin G (IgG) has been isolated from a heat-extracted preparation of a clinical isolate of Streptococcus zooepidemicus. This Fc receptor has a Mr of 45 x 10(3) and was occasionally seen as an apparent trimer of Mr 130 x 10(3). Antibodies prepared in horses against the receptor could be adsorbed to and eluted from whole live bacteria, confirming the surface location of this protein. Another 11 isolates of S. zooepidemicus from horses with pneumonia, abscesses or endometritis were tested for Fc-receptor activity. Although the Mr of the Fc receptors varied among isolates, their antigenicity was conserved. Thus, the Fc receptor is an attractive candidate for application in the diagnosis of, or protection against, infections with S. zooepidemicus. PMID- 2521674 TI - Mapping of RNA- temperature-sensitive mutants of Sindbis virus: complementation group F mutants have lesions in nsP4. AB - Temperature-sensitive (ts) mutants of Sindbis virus belonging to complementation group F, ts6, ts110, and ts118, are defective in RNA synthesis at the nonpermissive temperature. cDNA clones of these group F mutants, as well as of ts+ revertants, have been constructed. To assign the ts phenotype to a specific region in the viral genome, restriction fragments from the mutant cDNA clones were used to replace the corresponding regions of the full-length clone Toto1101 of Sindbis virus. These hybrid plasmids were transcribed in vitro by SP6 RNA polymerase to produce infectious transcripts, and the virus recovered was tested for temperature sensitivity. After the ts lesion of each mutant was mapped to a specific region of 400 to 800 nucleotides by this approach, this region of the cDNA clones of both the ts mutant and ts+ revertants was sequenced in order to determine the precise nucleotide change and amino acid substitution responsible for each mutation. Rescued mutants, which have a uniform background except for one or two defined changes, were examined for viral RNA synthesis and complementation to show that the phenotypes observed were the result of the mutations mapped. ts6 and ts110 had a single base substitution in nsP4, resulting in replacement of Gly by Glu at position 153 or position 324, respectively. It is of interest that nsP4 contains the Gly-Asp-Asp motif characteristic of a number of viral replicases, and this, together with the fact that all RNA synthesis in ts6-infected cells and, to a lesser extent, in ts110-infected cells shut off when the cells were shifted from a permissive to a nonpermissive temperature, suggests that nsP4 is the virus polymerase. ts118 was a double mutant. It contained a single base substitution in nsP2, resulting in replacement of Val by Ala at position 425 that resulted in the formation of minute plaques, but not in a reduction in the plaque number at the nonpermissive condition. The second change, a substitution of Gln by Arg in ts118 at residue 93 in nsP4, had little apparent phenotype on its own, but in combination with the change in nsP2 led to a ts phenotype. Thus, in each case the mutation responsible for the temperature sensitivity of the three known complementation group F mutants lay in nsP4. In addition, the result with ts118 suggests that nsP2 and nsP4 may interact with each other in a complex. PMID- 2521675 TI - The p53 complex from monkey cells modulates the biochemical activities of simian virus 40 large T antigen. AB - We have compared the ATPase, DNA-binding, and helicase activities of free simian virus 40 (SV40) large T antigen (To) and T antigen complexed with cellular p53 (T+p53). Each activity is essential for productive viral infection. The T+p53 and To fractions were prepared by sequential immunosorption of infected monkey cells with monoclonal antibodies specific for p53 and T antigen. The immune-complexed T fractions were then assayed in parallel. For ATP hydrolysis, the Vmax for T+p53 was 143 nmol of ADP per min per mg of protein, or 18-fold greater than for To. ATP had no effect on the stability of the T+p53 complex. The T+p53 complex was significantly more active than To in hydrolyzing dATP, dGTP, GTP, and UTP. Of the nucleotide substrates tested, the greatest relative increase (T+p53/To) was in hydrolyzing dGTP and GTP. In DNase footprinting assays performed under replication conditions, the T+p53 complex protected regions I, II, and III of origin DNA while equivalent amounts of To protected only regions I and II. Region III is known to contribute to the efficiency of DNA replication and contains the SP1-binding sites of the early viral promoter. The T+p53 fraction was also a more efficient helicase than To, especially with a GC-rich primer and template. Thus, the T+p53 complex has enhanced ATPase, GTPase, DNA-binding, and helicase activities. These findings imply that complex formation between cellular monkey p53 and SV40 T antigen modulates a number of essential activities of T in SV40 productive infection. PMID- 2521678 TI - Plasma dehydroepiandrosterone levels in HIV infection. PMID- 2521679 TI - Computers star in new communication concepts for physically disabled people. PMID- 2521676 TI - Mutagenesis of the in-frame opal termination codon preceding nsP4 of Sindbis virus: studies of translational readthrough and its effect on virus replication. AB - Sindbis virus (SIN) contains an in-frame opal termination codon in the nonstructural protein-coding region separating nsP3 and nsP4 and provides a useful tool to study the readthrough phenomenon of the termination codon in host cells and its role in viral replication. We have changed the opal codon by site directed mutagenesis of a full-length SIN cDNA clone to either sense amino acids (serine, tryptophan, or arginine) or the other two translation termination codons (amber or ochre). Transcripts from all of the mutant cDNA clones were infectious when used to transfect chicken embryo fibroblasts. The resulting progeny virus stocks were then used to study the effects of these mutations on viral protein and RNA synthesis, growth properties, host range, and fitness compared with the parental strain. None of the mutants showed temperature sensitivity in plaquing efficiency or plaque morphology on chicken embryo fibroblast monolayers. Relative to the wild-type parent, the mutants containing sense replacements overproduced nsP34 but not nsP4 and made slightly decreased levels of nsP3, with a delay in its appearance. This indicates that the cleavage separating nsP3 and nsP4 occurs in these mutants and also that the level of nsP4 is not regulated solely by readthrough of the opal codon. The amber and ochre mutants produced decreased levels of nsP34, and the ochre mutant grew significantly more slowly than the other mutants or wild-type virus. For all five mutants, RNA synthesis early in infection was inhibited compared with that of the parental virus. This effect was apparent at multiplicities of infection of 20 PFU per cell but not at 100 PFU per cell. Using in situ hybridization to distinguish between mutant and wild-type plaques, we have studied the behavior of the serine mutant in a high-multiplicity growth competition experiment with wild-type virus. The wild-type virus eventually outcompeted the mutant after several passages, and these results indicate that this mutation has resulted in effects that are at least partially cis acting. Furthermore, by studying the growth, plaque formation, and protein synthesis of the mutants in various cell types, we have observed host range effects of the mutations, especially in mosquito and human cells. In addition, we have demonstrated, at least indirectly, that opal, amber, and ochre termination codons in the SIN nucleotide context can be suppressed in cultured cells of chicken, human, hamster, and mosquito origin. PMID- 2521677 TI - Adenovirus E1A represses transcription of the cellular JE gene. AB - The expression of the growth factor-inducible JE gene was severely reduced in cells expressing region E1A of human adenoviruses. This reduction was not caused by a decreased stability of JE mRNA but by a reduced transcription rate as determined by run-on transcription experiments. Nevertheless, JE mRNA could still be induced by growth factors, suggesting that intracellular signaling is not blocked but rather that the basal level of JE transcription is repressed by E1A. PMID- 2521681 TI - [Our "Project Wheelchair". Experiences in class--on the way in a wheelchair]. PMID- 2521680 TI - [Cancer and skin manifestations]. PMID- 2521682 TI - Multisensory speech perception by profoundly hearing-impaired children. AB - Four children in Study 1 (ages 5-7 years) and 4 children in Study 2 (ages 8-11 years) received unimodal (tactual) word recognition training with tactual speech perception aids. Two of the subjects in Study 1 were trained with a 2-channel device and 2 with a 16-channel aid. All of the subjects in Study 2 used a 16 channel aid. Following training, subjects were tested on a list containing equal numbers of trained words and of tactually new words in three conditions: (a) aided hearing alone (H), (b) tactual aid alone (TA), and (c) combined (TA + H). Results indicate that subjects performed significantly better in the combined condition on both trained and tactually new words, providing evidence for significant sensory integration following unimodal training. PMID- 2521683 TI - A classical conditioning procedure for the hearing assessment of multiply handicapped persons. AB - The present study evaluated the viability of a classical conditioning procedure with an air puff as unconditioned stimulus for the hearing assessment of multiply handicapped children and adolescents. All subjects were also exposed to operant conditioning, which consisted of a modified visual reinforcement audiometry (VRA) procedure or involved edible reinforcement contingent on a reaching response (for blind subjects). The findings indicate that the classical conditioning procedure was successful with 21 of the 23 subjects, whereas operant conditioning succeeded with 15 of the subjects. Thresholds obtained with classical conditioning were mostly equal to or within 10 dB of those obtained with operant conditioning and also matched previously available hearing estimates. These findings seem to suggest that the classical procedure can be a useful behavioral alternative for audiological assessment. PMID- 2521684 TI - The ontogeny of immunoreactive beta-endorphin and beta-lipotropin in the rat testis. AB - We have investigated the ontogeny of immunoreactive beta-endorphin (i-beta E) in the testes of rats from 5 to 150 days of age. i-beta E was measured by RIA in acid extracts of decapsulated testes and characterized by gel filtration chromatography. Significant age-related differences in both the levels and type of i-beta E were observed. Total levels of i-beta E in the testes were very low and barely detectable from 5-20 days of age, but rose sharply in parallel with testes weights from 20-60 days of age; thereafter, no significant changes in i beta E were found through 150 days of age. Concentrations of i-beta E, expressed in pmol/g testis, fell precipitously between days 5 and 10 and remained relatively constant from 10-150 days. Most of the i-beta E at 5 and 15 days chromatographed like authentic beta-endorphin. However, with the onset of puberty (30-35 days) and during sexual maturation, much of the total i-beta E chromatographed like its' precursor beta-lipotropin (beta LPH). Hypophysectomy decreased the weight and total i-beta E levels of the testes to the same extent without altering the concentrations of i-beta E or the chromatographic pattern of i-beta E. These results indicate that beta E-like and beta LPH-like peptides are present in the rat testis and that age-related changes in both the levels and type of i-beta E correlate with various structural and functional aspects of testicular development. PMID- 2521685 TI - Secretion of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) from fish atrial and ventricular myocytes in tissue culture. AB - Primary cultures of atrial and ventricular myocytes (approx. 1 x 10(5) cells/culture) were prepared from adult teleost fish Gila atraria and maintained for 10 days. Immunoreactive atrial natriuretic peptide (ir-ANP) from fish atrial and ventricular cells was 3.9 and 2.8 ng/culture respectively, values not significantly different. Atriocytes from rat and mouse secreted comparable amounts of ANP which were not significantly different from atrial fish cultures (5.2 and 4.3 ng/culture). In contrast, their ventricular myocytes secreted only small quantities of ANP (0.8 and 0.3 ng/culture). When analyzed by reversed-phase HPLC, the media of both fish atrial and ventricular myocytes contained a peptide which exhibited properties similar to authentic human ANP (Ser 99-Tyr 126), suggesting a significant degree of sequence homology between fish and mammalian ANP. Fish ventricular cells, unlike normal mammalian ventricular cells, secrete substantial quantities of immunoreactive-ANP. PMID- 2521686 TI - Serotoninergic activity stimulates melanin dispersion within dermal melanophores of newts. AB - Systemic injections of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), the precursor to serotonin, stimulates melanin dispersion within dermal melanophores of red-spotted newts (Notophthalmus viridescens). Injections of para-Chlorophenylalanine (PCPA), an inhibitor of serotonin synthesis, inhibited melanin dispersion, and hence darkening of the skin, when newts were transferred to a dark background. The results indicate a role for serotoninergic activity in the background adaptation response in this amphibian. PMID- 2521687 TI - Molecular cloning and characterization of complementary deoxyribonucleic acids corresponding to bovine trophoblast protein-1: a comparison with ovine trophoblast protein-1 and bovine interferon-alpha II. AB - Bovine trophoblast protein-1 (bTP-1) is a secreted glycoprotein that consists of several forms differing slightly in mol wt and isoelectric point. It is produced by bovine conceptuses after about day 15 of pregnancy and is believed to play a key role in signalling the presence of an embryo to the mother. In this study, a series of recombinant cDNA clones corresponding to the mRNA for bTP-1 have been isolated from cDNA libraries representing day 18-19 bovine conceptus poly(A)+ mRNA. Base sequencing of several cDNAs indicated that multiple mRNAs for bTP-1 exist. Northern blotting and primer extension experiments showed that the mRNAs average about 1 kilobase in length. One apparently full-length cDNA clone consisted of 1035 bases up to the beginning of the poly(A) tail. It contained an open reading frame of 195 codons which began at a position 79 bases from the 5' end. Its entire sequence was 85% identical to that of a cDNA for the immunologically related ovine trophoblast protein-1 (oTP-1) and about 79% identical to that for a bovine interferon-alpha II (IFN alpha II). The highest conservation of sequence (greater than 90%) was noted in the 3'-untranslated sequences of the bTP-1 and oTP-1 cDNAs. The deduced amino acid sequence of bTP-1 shared 80% identity with oTP-1, between 45-55% with human, rodent, porcine, and bovine IFNs of the alpha 1 subfamily and about 70% with a bovine IFN alpha II. A single potential site for N-glycosylation was noted at Asn78. These results show that bTP-1, like its ovine counterpart oTP-1, is structurally related to the IFN alpha S. We suggest that these embryonic IFNs play a role in controlling immunoreactions at the trophoblast-uterus interface as well as triggering other maternal responses to pregnancy. PMID- 2521688 TI - Pituitary-ovarian responses to nafarelin testing in the polycystic ovary syndrome. AB - To investigate the basis of polycystic ovary syndrome, we examined the responses of patients to nafarelin, a specific gonadotropin-releasing-hormone agonist, given to stimulate pituitary and gonadal secretion. We compared 16 normal women in the follicular phase, 5 normal men, 8 women with polycystic ovary syndrome, and 1 woman with polycystic ovary syndrome caused by a 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase deficiency. After 100 micrograms of nafarelin was given subcutaneously, serum follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone increased rapidly to peak levels within four hours. The women with polycystic ovary syndrome had a pattern similar to that of the men, with greater early luteinizing-hormone responses (30 minutes to 1 hour) and lower peak follicle stimulating-hormone responses than normal women (P less than 0.05). Patients with polycystic ovary syndrome responded to gonadotropin stimulation with normal to increased production of plasma estrogens and increased levels of androstenedione at 16 to 24 hours (P less than 0.05). Elevated production of 17 alpha hydroxyprogesterone was found in all the women with polycystic ovary syndrome and in the men. These abnormal responses were unchanged by pretreatment with dexamethasone to suppress adrenal function. In the patient with the 3 beta hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase deficiency, both basal and stimulated plasma levels of delta 5-3 beta-hydroxysteroids before the enzymatic block were elevated, whereas plasma levels of 17 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone and androstenedione--the steroids immediately beyond the block--were low. We conclude that women with polycystic ovary syndrome have masculinized pituitary and ovarian responses to stimulation by nafarelin. Our findings suggest that the regulation of the ovarian 17-hydroxylase and C-17,20-lyase activities is abnormal in such women. PMID- 2521689 TI - Circadian rhythm and light regulate opsin mRNA in rod photoreceptors. AB - Disk membranes in the outer segment of rod photoreceptors are continuously renewed, being assembled at the outer segment base, displaced outward by new disks and eventually shed at the tip. In lower vertebrates, disk assembly occurs with a diurnal rhythm with 2-4% of the outer segment length produced daily. We have discovered that in toad and fish retinas the level of mRNA for opsin, the most abundant protein in rod disks, fluctuates with a daily rhythm and is regulated both by light and by a circadian oscillator. The mRNA level rises before light onset, remains high during the light phase of a diurnal cycle and decreases four to tenfold during the dark phase. In constant darkness, mRNA elevation occurs during subjective daytime. At night, rod opsin mRNA can be elevated by exposure to light. PMID- 2521690 TI - [Hepatitis B virus infection in women treated with in-vitro fertilization]. PMID- 2521692 TI - [Medicine, servant of mercy]. PMID- 2521691 TI - [Hepatitis B epidemic in women treated with in-vitro fertilization]. PMID- 2521693 TI - T suppressor cell index in transplant rejection. PMID- 2521694 TI - Renal autotransplant and percutaneous transluminal angioplast. Combined treatment in the management of renovascular hypertension--first report of two successful cases. PMID- 2521695 TI - Molecular markers of hemostasis activation in nephrotic syndrome. AB - Fibrinopeptide A (FPA), a sensitive index of in vivo thrombin activity, beta thromboglobulin (beta TG) and platelet factor 4 (PF4), specific markers of platelet intravascular activation, have been measured in plasma by radioimmunoassays in 23 patients with nephrotic syndrome and in 32 normal subjects. FPA concentration was 2.40 +/- 1.42 ng/ml (mean +/- SD) in nephrotic patients and 1.16 +/- 0.58 ng/ml in normal controls (p less than 0.001); beta TG concentration was 57.9 +/- 33.2 ng/ml in nephrotic patients and 25.7 +/- 7.4 ng/ml in controls (p less than 0.001); PF4 level was not different from controls. These data indicate in vivo blood hypercoagulability and platelet hyperfunction in nephrotic syndrome. Moreover, we have documented a slow in vitro FPA generation pattern (delta FPA): 0.97 +/- 0.51 ng/ml/10 min; this suggests that thrombin activity is predominantly local. PMID- 2521696 TI - Evidence for a proximal and distal nephron action of atrial natriuretic factor in man. AB - The intrarenal mechanism of action of atrial natriuretic (ANF) remains uncertain. Animal work suggests that part of the natriuretic effect of ANF may be due to inhibition of proximal and distal nephron sodium reabsorption and we now present evidence for similar effects of ANF in man. Six sodium replete normal male volunteers were studied during maximal water diuresis. Lithium clearance was used to assess segmental nephron function. ANF infusion caused a significant increase in fractional lithium clearance (FELi) compared to placebo infusion. A similar change in fractional distal delivery, a conventional marker of proximal tubular outflow, also occurred during ANF infusion independently corroborating the increase in FELi. These findings suggest that ANF inhibits whole-kidney fractional proximal tubular sodium reabsorption in man. Evidence is also presented to show that ANF depresses distal nephron fractional sodium reabsorption as evaluated both by the lithium method and by estimation of solute free water clearance. PMID- 2521697 TI - Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty as best treatment in stenosis of vascular access for hemodialysis. AB - We show the results of treatment with percutaneous transluminal angioplasty on 38 occasions for vascular access for hemodialysis. Our study includes 22 patients with A-V internal fistulas (Cimino type), 1 autologous saphenous vein shunt and 7 synthetic polytetrafluoro-ethylene shunts. Twenty patients have had a follow-up period over 24 months. Four patients required a second and 2 of them a third transluminal dilatation. Only on two occasions were complications related to the technique. The microscopic findings of the venous wall after percutaneous transluminal angioplasty are shown. PMID- 2521698 TI - Urinary excretion of atrial natriuretic peptide during saline infusion and supraventricular tachycardia. PMID- 2521700 TI - Biomedical ethics. Communication and altered perceptions. PMID- 2521701 TI - Dentistry for children--are you prepared? PMID- 2521699 TI - Randomized controlled trial of testosterone in myotonic dystrophy. AB - Because testosterone has an anabolic effect in myotonic dystrophy, we conducted a 12-month, randomized, double-blind therapeutic trial of testosterone enanthate (3 mg/kg/wk) in 40 men with myotonic dystrophy. We evaluated strength by manual muscle tests, quantitative myometry, pulmonary function, and quantitative functional assessment. A sustained, significant elevation of testosterone levels was produced but there was no effect on any measurement of muscle strength. Muscle mass as estimated by creatinine excretion and lean body mass (40K method) increased significantly. We conclude that testosterone does not improve strength in myotonic dystrophy despite increasing muscle mass. PMID- 2521702 TI - The measurement of surface area of endometriotic implants by morphometric analysis. AB - There are numerous staging methods for the assessment and evaluation of endometriosis both before and after treatment. Present systems rely on subjective criteria that are prone to bias and error. This report describes an objective technique for the measurement of surface area of pelvic endometriotic implants that is both accurate and reproducible. Six patients with endometriosis underwent laparoscopy and were staged using the Revised American Fertility Society criteria; the lesions were photographed simultaneously. These patients were then treated with either danazol or Nafarelin acetate for 6 months before a second look laparoscopy. Using coded photographic slides, implants were measured using computerized morphometric analysis. An accurate record of the number and surface area of the lesions was obtained before and after treatment. The mean surface area of individual lesions and the total visible disease per patient fell by 89 and 82%, respectively. The mean number of lesions per patient actually rose by 30% as a result of fragmentation into smaller plaques. These data suggest that morphometry may be more valuable in the assessment of endometriotic implants than are all previously described staging systems. PMID- 2521703 TI - Symptomatic internal hernia of the broad ligament: a complication of electrocoagulation therapy of endometriosis. AB - A 31-year-old nulligravid woman had had two previous laparoscopies for endometriosis. Disease of the right broad ligament was treated by electrocoagulation at the first surgery, but pain persisted despite postoperative danazol therapy. At her second laparoscopy, a large defect of the right broad ligament was noted, but not treated. At her third operation, laparoscopic excision of endometriosis was followed by herniorrhaphy of the right broad ligament through mini-laparotomy. The potential for bowel herniation exists whenever a closed loop is present in the abdominal cavity. PMID- 2521704 TI - Modulation of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I genes in adenovirus 12 transformed cells: interferon-gamma increases class I expression by a mechanism that circumvents E1A induced-repression and tumor necrosis factor enhances the effect of interferon-gamma. AB - The protein products of the E1A gene of adenovirus type-12 (Ad12) block transcription of major histocompatibility (MHC) class I genes in both rodent and human transformed cells and interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) is able to override this repression. Although IFN-gamma is known to stimulate class I transcription, we investigated whether its dominance over E1A repression could alternatively result from the ability of this cytokine to induce antiviral mechanisms. We show that this is not so, since the accumulation of Ad12 E1A mRNA and protein are unabated in the presence of IFN-gamma. Also, tumor necrosis factor (TNF) was shown to act synergistically with IFN-gamma to enhance class I antigen levels, although it had little effect alone. These results suggest that the normal pathway by which IFN gamma acts to enhance the level of class I mRNAs, circumvents the block by which E1A represses class I transcription. PMID- 2521705 TI - Comprehensive treatment of acute and chronic low back pain: a clinical outcome comparison. AB - A comparative clinical outcome study was conducted with two groups of physician referred patients suffering either acute (Group A) or chronic (Group B) low back pain (LBP) and receiving treatment in a hospital-based comprehensive rehabilitation program. Twenty-six patients assigned to the acute-pain group suffered the onset of LBP within the preceding two months prior to treatment. Thirty patients assigned to the chronic pain group suffered the onset of LBP greater than six months prior to treatment. Results at discharge indicated minimal outcome differences between the treatment groups. However, at three-month follow-up the acute LBP group demonstrated a distinctly more favorable clinical outcome in terms of 1) maintenance of increased physical activity, 2) medication elimination, 3) reduction in subjective pain intensity, 4) reduction in healthcare utilization, and 5) return to productivity. Treatment implications regarding conservative versus restorative management approaches are discussed. PMID- 2521706 TI - Acute myocardial infarction. Options on arrival at the hospital. PMID- 2521707 TI - Acute myocardial infarction. Treatment in the coronary care unit. AB - Management of the patient with acute myocardial infarction is in flux. In the current "reperfusion era," many patients receive intravenous thrombolytic therapy and aspirin before admission to the coronary care unit. Appropriate use of drugs limits expansion of the infarct and reduces mortality rates in patients with uncomplicated myocardial infarction. Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty may be necessary in those who are not candidates for drug treatment or who show recurrent ischemia after thrombolysis, while cardiac transplantation may be the only hope for patients with multivessel disease who are in cardiogenic shock. The "cocktail era," in which polypharmacy is both acceptable and effective, will likely be the next stage in management of acute myocardial infarction. PMID- 2521708 TI - [Measurement of pH of the rhinopharynx in children with gastroesophageal reflux]. AB - The relationship between gastro-oesophageal reflux and inflammatory airway pathology is well known as regards the trachea and bronchi. It is disputed by some authors but clearly established by others as regards the pharynx and larynx (recurrent laryngitis, subglottic stenosis, laryngospasm). A number of authors have empirically observed that gastro-oesophageal reflux is associated in some cases with chronic inflammation of the rhinopharynx and middle ear. We studied the 24-hour pH of the rhinopharyngeal mucosa in 3 groups of children: 3 healthy children acting as controls, 1 child with known gastro-oesophageal reflux but without rhinopharyngeal pathology, and 2 children with both gastro-oesophageal reflux and mucosal obstruction of the nose and pharynx unascribable to the usual causes. Minimal to considerable variations of rhinopharyngeal pH were observed in children of the third group, while controls had a remarkably stable 24-hour pH (6.7 to 7.4 depending on the subject). Owing to the small number of cases studied, these results should be regarded as preliminary and devoid of significant value concerning the real impact of the acid reflux on rhinopharyngeal pathology. PMID- 2521709 TI - [Maternal-child transmission of Chlamydia trachomatis. A prospective inquiry in 168 pregnant women]. AB - A prospective study was performed in 168 pregnant women in order to evaluate the frequency of perinatal transmission of Chlamydia trachomatis and to measure its effects on the child's health during his first 3 months of life. The micro organism was detected by an immunoenzymatic method specific to Chlamydia antigens, and microimmunofluorescence was used for serological testing. Cervical smears taken at the end of pregnancy were positive in 3 women (1.7 per cent), while the sera of 37 women were positive for Chlamydia trachomatis. Altogether, 26.8 per cent of the women explored had had a contact with the micro-organism. Conjunctival smears taken from 1 month old infants were all negative, but 4 infants (out of 126) had positive nasal smears. The mothers of 2 of these had been exposed to the bacterium, but all 4 mothers had negative cervical smears. Antibody titres in 3-month old infants were 1.2 dilution on average below those found in the mothers. Women exposed to Chlamydia trachomatis are frequently unmarried; their pregnancies tend to shorter than normally, and their infants have more frequent episodes of rhinitis. These peculiarities are insufficiently pronounced to single out a population at risk that might benefit from detection of the bacterium. PMID- 2521710 TI - [Prevention using pefloxacin of infections in cancer patients with granulocytopenia]. AB - The practical procedures of digestive tract decontamination and prophylaxis of bacterial infection in granulocytopenic patients are debated. Fluoroquinolones are active against Gram-negative bacilli and have few side-effects. Pefloxacin was administered prophylactically to patients with cancer and granulocytopenia. None of them developed Gram-negative septicaemia, but 2 cases of streptococcal septicaemia were observed. The drug was well tolerated by all patients except one. Studies are currently in progress to try to reduce the incidence of septicaemia caused by Gram-positive cocci, using pefloxacin combined with penicillin. PMID- 2521711 TI - [Callosogenital dysplasia]. AB - A nosological entity, calloso-genital dysplasia, is described from a case of primary amenorrhoea with coloboma and total agenesis of the corpus callosum. Deficiency of the thalamic gonadotropic hormone secretion was elicited, together with normal or moderately elevated prolactinaemia, the significance of which is discussed. Thyrotropic, somatotropic and corticotropic functions were normal. It may be that the hypogonadotropic eunuchoidism of this 24-year old woman with normal olfaction evolved towards panhypopituitarism over a number of years, but in such a malformation that had not changed since birth the thalamic hypophysiotropic dysfunction seems to be fixed and stable. Unless a most unlikely coincidence occurred, the primary amenorrhoea seems to be related to the malformation. Agenesis of the corpus callosum with panhypopituitarism is well known, but this case is original in that the pituitary deficiency is very limited. A comparison with its mirror image, olfacto-genital dysplasia or Kallman's syndrome is tempting, but it remains to be documented anatomically by other cases. PMID- 2521712 TI - [Calcium phosphate ceramics in orthopedic surgery]. AB - Calcium phosphate ceramics might replace bone grafts in orthopaedic surgery. The chemical determination of these materials is now well known, and world-wide animal experiments as well as our own experience have proven that these products are both biocompatible and bioactive. The early chemical and physico-chemical mechanisms of interaction between calcium phosphate ceramics and bone tissue and biological fluids at the site of implantation are numerous (degradation, dissolution, crystal precipitation). These processes precede the cellular mechanisms of osteogenesis which take place during contact with the materials and define osteoconduction. When implanted in a bony environment, the ceramic ensures the formation of a genuine bone which within a few months will acquire all the characteristics of a normal lamellated bone with areas of apposition and resorption during remodeling. However, the mechanical characteristics of calcium phosphate ceramics do not permit an early loading, and they should only be used to fill bone cavities. In vertebral arthrodesis they must be implanted in stress free areas and combined with strong and stable appliances. To benefit from the special bioactivity of calcium phosphate ceramics, research workers are now turning towards the treatment of metal alloys or composite fibres surfaces as well as of calcium phosphate complexes and extracellular matrix constituents (collagen, proteoglycans, etc.). PMID- 2521713 TI - [Plea for autopalpation of the testis]. PMID- 2521715 TI - [Prevalence of anti-HIV1 seropositivity in hemodialysed patients in Southeastern France]. PMID- 2521714 TI - [Blindness of unusual mechanism disclosing Horton's disease]. PMID- 2521716 TI - [Streptococcus B meningitis after splenic irradiation of Hodgkin's disease]. PMID- 2521717 TI - [Surgical treatment of hepatic metastases of colorectal cancer. Results and indications]. PMID- 2521718 TI - [Have prostaglandins found their role in the treatment of gastroduodenal disease?]. PMID- 2521719 TI - [Infections on foreign material]. PMID- 2521720 TI - [Effects of light in depressive syndromes]. PMID- 2521721 TI - [Prevalence and management of arterial hypertension in diabetic patients treated with insulin]. AB - In small series of selected hypertensive diabetic patients the short-term benefit of antihypertensive treatments is well documented. The purpose of this study was to analyse the management of arterial hypertension in a cohort of 612 insulin treated diabetic out-patients routinely and consecutively examined in a diabetologic clinic between January 1, 1985 and April 1, 1986. The prevalence of arterial hypertension (i.e. patients with blood pressure values greater than or equal to 160 and/or 95 mmHg or on antihypertensive treatment) was 38 per cent (232 patients). One hundred and eighty-two patients (29.7 per cent) received an antihypertensive treatment (one drug 78 per cent, two drugs 17 per cent, three drugs 5 per cent). In decreasing order of frequency these drugs were: beta blockers, diuretics, central acting agents, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and calcium antagonists. In treated hypertensive diabetic patients the mean +/- SD systolic blood pressure (157.1 +/- 19.1 mmHg) and diastolic pressure (85.3 +/- 9.3 mmHg) remained higher than in patients without antihypertensive treatment (133.4 +/- 17.2 and 77.8 +/- 8.3 mmHg respectively). One hundred and forty-two diabetic patients still had blood pressure values greater than or equal to 160 and/or 95 mmHg during visits; 92 were on antihypertensive treatment, 50 were untreated. In hypertensive diabetic patients the mean total glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1) level was higher than in normotensive diabetic patients (9 +/- 1.6 versus 8.6 +/- 1.8; P less than 0.05). Hypertensive insulin-treated diabetics are the most seriously ill patients, they are under inadequate care. Wrong choice of antihypertensive drugs, incorrect goals of blood pressure reduction, lack of information and education to improve compliance were the main reasons for the poor results of this study. PMID- 2521722 TI - [Evaluation of 2 homeopathic products on the resumption of transit after digestive surgery. A multicenter controlled trial]. AB - The effects of two homeopathic preparations, Opium and Raphanus, given in dilutions of 10(30) (15 HC) and 10(10) (5 HC) respectively, on the resumption of intestinal peristalsis after operations on the digestive tract were evaluated in a controlled, double-blind therapeutic trial involving patients from 12 hospitals. The patients were allocated at random into 4 groups of 150 each: 1 untreated group and 3 groups who received either Opium and Raphanus, or Opium and the placebo of Raphanus or the placebos of the two products. The results were assessed on the time elapsed between closure of the abdominal wall and the first faeces and (accessorily) the first bowel sounds and passing of flatus per rectum. Pre-operative and operative features were similar in all 4 groups. There was no significant difference in the effects of treatment between the groups, even when such predictive factors as type and duration of surgery and age were taken into account. It is concluded that the trial failed to demonstrate any effect of Opium or Raphanus on the resumption of intestinal peristalsis after digestive tract surgery. Nor did it confirm the activity of ultra-molecular dilutions claimed for this type of drugs. PMID- 2521724 TI - [Perfusion of prostaglandins in the cervix uteri. A new method of cervical maturation after premature rupture of the membranes]. AB - Many authors consider that using prostaglandins is the best way of obtaining adequate maturation of the cervix uteri before induction of labour; however, in case of premature rupture of the membranes the conventional methods can seldom be used. An original technique for this relatively rare situation is presented, consisting of an intracervical infusion of prostaglandin F2-alpha at the initial rate of 0.3 mg/hour. Details are given of the technique as well as of the results obtained in a preliminary study of 10 patients. With a mean 7.5 mg total dose of prostaglandin F2-alpha, the mean durations of maturation and delivery were 15 and 20 hours respectively. No infection developed and the procedure was well tolerated by the patients. Nevertheless, this technique should be reserved to those cases where conventional methods cannot be used. PMID- 2521723 TI - [Functioning of an organ procurement center in Bordeau]. AB - The ever increasing practice of transplantation requires the creation of units specialized in the reception of potential organ donors. The functioning of the organ procurement centre at Bordeaux is described, and the results of 100 procurements performed over a 27-month period are reported. The technical support (electroencephalography, laboratories, etc.) ensures that the donors are under permanent care. Recipients chosen in priority are "super-emergencies" and local patients. One half of the 100 donors came from the Gironde department and the others from 6 neighbouring departments. Procurement takes place 6 hours on average after the 2nd inactive electroencephalogram, and it is multiple in 87 per cent of the cases. Two hundred and fifty-two organs were obtained, including 166 kidneys (8 of which were not utilized), 50 hearts and 36 livers; 55 per cent remained in Bordeaux and 45 per cent were sent to other parts of France or abroad. The cerebral death reception centre must be self-sufficient, independent and permanently accessible. Ideally, local co-ordination is ensured by a physician. Procurements in peripheral hospital are possible but difficult to organize. A greater sensitization, a better regional collaboration and a widening of the criteria used in the selection of donors should result in a further increase in the number of multiple organ procurements. PMID- 2521725 TI - [Therapeutic management of the Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome]. AB - Reentry tachycardia and atrial fibrillation occur in 12 to 36 per cent of patients with Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome. The severity of the arrhythmia depends on the frequency of attacks, on the heart rate in tachycardia and on the condition of the underlying myocardium. Moreover, ventricular fibrillation has been observed in some cases of atrial fibrillation with a fast ventricular response due to accessory pathways with very short refractory periods. This is the mechanism of sudden death in WPW syndrome. The prognosis can be assessed by atrial pacing, now often performed by the transoesophageal method. pacing makes it possible to measure the atrial vulnerability and the value of the shortest interval conducted through the accessory pathway. Indirect methods, such as exercise electrocardiogram or ajmaline injection, are less specific in predicting the characteristics of the accessory pathway. The therapeutic approach depends on the symptoms. Asymptomatic patients or those who present with only rare episodes of reciprocal tachycardia can be left untreated, but a preventive medical treatment is necessary in patients with atrial fibrillation or frequent attacks of tachycardia. When this treatment is ineffective or complicated by side effects, a more radical therapy must be proposed. For the last 20 years this has been surgery, but nowadays catheter ablation of the accessory pathway gives similar results in skilled hands and tends to replace surgery. PMID- 2521726 TI - [Atrial tachycardia after anatomic repair of transposition of the great vessels]. PMID- 2521727 TI - [Induced expectoration in the search for Pneumocystis carinii in HIV seropositive patients. Value and limitations]. PMID- 2521729 TI - [Diaphragmatic bronchogenic cyst]. PMID- 2521728 TI - [Spontaneously resolving meningeal cysticercosis reveals chronic lymphocytic meningitis]. PMID- 2521730 TI - [Supraventricular tachycardia in the newborn infant. Role of injectable diltiazem]. PMID- 2521731 TI - [Pulmonary metastasis of alveolar echinococcosis. Frequency and mechanisms of occurrence]. PMID- 2521732 TI - Human Fc gamma RIII: cloning, expression, and identification of the chromosomal locus of two Fc receptors for IgG. AB - A cDNA clone encoding a human receptor for the Fc portion of IgG (Fc gamma R), Fc gamma RIII or CD16, was isolated from a human leukocyte library by a transient expression-immunoselection procedure. This cDNA (pGP5) encodes a 46-kDa phosphatidylinositol-linked cell surface protein with CD16 determinants and affinity for human IgG. The deduced protein sequence is most homologous to the murine receptor Fc gamma RII alpha, with slightly less homology to the human receptors Fc gamma RII and Fc epsilon RI. The cDNA hybridizes to a 2.2 kilobase mRNA in human leukocytes and a cloned human natural killer cell line. Fc gamma RIII is mapped to chromosome 1 by spot-blot analysis of sorted human chromosomes. Hybridization of Fc gamma RII and Fc gamma RIII probes to restriction digests of human genomic DNA separated by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis demonstrates physical linkage of the two genes within a maximum distance of 200 kilobases. The results identify a locus for at least two Fc gamma R genes on human chromosome 1. PMID- 2521733 TI - Thrombus imaging in a primate model with antibodies specific for an external membrane protein of activated platelets. AB - The activated platelet is a potential target for the localization of thrombi in vivo since, after stimulation and secretion of granule contents, activated platelets are concentrated at sites of blood clot formation. In this study, we used antibodies specific for a membrane protein of activated platelets to detect experimental thrombi in an animal model. PADGEM (platelet activation-dependent granule-external membrane protein), a platelet alpha-granule membrane protein, is translocated to the plasma membrane during platelet activation and granule secretion. Since PADGEM is internal in unstimulated platelets, polyclonal anti PADGEM and monoclonal KC4 antibodies do not bind to circulating resting platelets but do interact with activated platelets. Dacron graft material incubated with radiolabeled KC4 or anti-PADGEM antibodies in the presence of thrombin-activated platelet-rich plasma bound most of the antibody. Imaging experiments with 123I labeled anti-PADGEM in baboons with an external arterial-venous Dacron shunt revealed rapid uptake in the thrombus induced by the Dacron graft; control experiments with 123I-labeled nonimmune IgG exhibited minimal uptake. Deep venous thrombi, formed by using percutaneous balloon catheters to stop blood flow in the femoral vein of baboons, were visualized with 123I-labeled anti-PADGEM. Thrombi were discernible against blood pool background activity without subtraction techniques within 1 hr. No target enhancement was seen with 123I-labeled nonimmune IgG. 123I-labeled anti-PADGEM cleared the blood pool with an initial half-disappearance time of 6 min and did not interfere with hemostasis. These results indicate that radioimmunoscintigraphy with anti-PADGEM antibodies can visualize thrombi in baboon models and is a promising technique for clinical thrombus detection in humans. PMID- 2521734 TI - Clinical comparison of I-131 orthoiodohippurate and the kit formulation of Tc-99m mercaptoacetyltriglycine. AB - Previous studies in animals and humans have shown that technetium-99m mercaptoacetyltriglycine (MAG3) purified by high-performance liquid chromatography is a renal tubular agent with characteristics similar to those of iodine-131 orthoiodohippurate (OIH). A kit formulation for Tc-99m MAG3 has been developed and compared with I-131 OIH in 17 patients with suspected renal dysfunction and three potential kidney donors. There were no adverse reactions. Tc-99m MAG3 images were of good quality and consistently better than I-131 OIH images. There was no significant difference in the relative renal uptake of Tc 99m MAG3 and I-131 OIH. The 30-minute urinary excretion of Tc-99m MAG3 was 36.4%, versus 40.4% for I-131 OIH. The average plasma clearance of Tc-99m MAG3 (138 mL/min +/- 117) was less than that of I-131 OIH (272 mL/min +/- 205) (P less than .001); however, there was good correlation between the Tc-99m MAG3 and I-131 OIH clearances (r = .87). The volume of distribution of Tc-99m MAG3 (5.96 L +/- 1.94) was less than that of I-131 OIH (9.41 L +/- 3.73) (P less than .001). These characteristics and the advantages of a simple kit formulation should lead to widespread clinical use. PMID- 2521735 TI - Obstruction to hepatic venous drainage after liver transplantation: treatment with balloon angioplasty. AB - Stenosis of the suprahepatic inferior vena caval anastomosis is a rare but serious vascular complication after liver transplantation. It may cause significant obstruction to venous drainage from the allograft liver and result in the Budd-Chiari syndrome with massive ascites and pleural effusion causing respiratory compromise. The authors report two such cases in which percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) of the stenotic anastomosis was performed. This nonsurgical approach resulted in resolution of ascites, pleural effusion, and respiratory distress in both patients. They conclude that PTA is a therapeutic alternative with minimal risk compared with surgical repair or retransplantation and should be considered the initial treatment of choice in selected patients. PMID- 2521736 TI - Platelet deposition at angioplasty sites and its relation to restenosis in human iliac and femoropopliteal arteries. AB - The amount and time course of platelet accumulation at angioplasty sites and influence of these platelets on restenosis after percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) in peripheral arteries were determined in 92 patients, who received either a high or low dose of aspirin. Platelet deposition was quantitated by means of dual-radiotracer scintigraphy and calculation of a platelet accumulation index (PAI). The PAI was higher (P less than .05) 4-6 hours after PTA compared with that on subsequent days. There was a trend toward greater platelet accumulation in vessels with extensive dissection. Platelet accumulation at the PTA site occurred with both doses of aspirin, with no differences between the two dosage groups. Twenty-one of 67 patients who underwent PTA in the femoropopliteal segment developed restenosis during a median follow-up of 14 months. The median PAI at 4-6 and 22-24 hours after PTA was significantly less in these 21 patients than in the 46 without restenosis. The data suggest that use of antiplatelet agents to prevent platelet deposition after PTA may not be useful for prevention of restenosis. PMID- 2521737 TI - Budd-Chiari syndrome: treatment with percutaneous transhepatic recanalization and dilation. AB - The authors describe a child with Budd-Chiari syndrome secondary to membranous obstruction of the hepatic veins and a web in the inferior vena cava. Transhepatic catheter venography demonstrated the occlusion, which was recanalized and dilated percutaneously via a transhepatic approach. Hepatomegaly and ascites decreased promptly and the prothrombin time became normal. PMID- 2521738 TI - Value of laser-assisted angioplasty in the community hospital. AB - The experience with laser-assisted angioplasty at a community hospital was reviewed. One hundred twenty patients required angioplasty during a 7-month period, and in only 17-13 of whom had superficial femoral artery occlusions--was the use of lasers deemed appropriate. The success rate was 65% for laser-assisted angioplasty and 98% for balloon angioplasty. Laser-assisted angioplasty was the initial intervention in eight of the 13 superficial femoral artery occlusions. In two cases, a wire had been first advanced across the lesion, and in three cases, attempts to cross the lesion with a wire had been unsuccessful. The availability of the laser did not significantly increase the number of cases amenable to angioplasty, and at present laser angioplasty, does not seem to be cost-effective for community hospitals. PMID- 2521739 TI - Short-term morphologic results of percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty as determined with angiography. AB - Short-term follow-up angiographic evaluation of renal artery stenoses treated by means of percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty was performed in 89 patients with 108 treated stenoses, at a mean of 5.9 months +/- 6.7 after the procedure. In 72 patients intravenous digital subtraction angiography was performed; in 17 patients intraarterial digital subtraction angiography was performed. Indications for the study were (a) routine follow-up in 31 patients, (b) residual hypertension in 16, (c) residual stenosis on the postdilation angiogram (with residual hypertension) in 17, and (d) relapse of hypertension in 25. In 16 of the 25 patients (64%) with relapse of hypertension, angiography showed relapse of stenosis or occlusion of the vessel. In nine of the 17 patients (53%) with residual stenosis on the postdilation angiogram, an improvement in the angiographic appearance of the lesion was noted. Residual stenosis was noted in one normotensive patient, in three patients with residual hypertension, and in eight patients with residual stenosis on the postdilation angiogram. PMID- 2521740 TI - Lower-extremity in situ saphenous vein grafts: angiographic interventions. AB - In 16 consecutive patients, thrombosis, anastomotic and intragraft stenoses, and residual venous communications (arteriovenous fistulas [AVFs]), after in situ saphenous vein bypass of femoropopliteal and infrapopliteal arteries, were treated with interventional angiographic techniques. Streptokinase infusion for graft thrombosis was performed in four patients, with long-term clinical improvement in two; in the other two, early rethrombosis was treated with surgical thrombectomy. Delayed rethrombosis occurred at 13 months in another patient. Anastomotic (six occasions) and intragraft (four occasions) stenoses in six patients were dilated with percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA). Two grafts subsequently occluded, one 3 weeks and one 3 months after PTA. Residual AVFs were occluded in ten patients. Ten of 16 patients remained clinically improved without further therapy. One complication occurred: A graft stenosis developed at the site where a coil, protruding from the AVF into the graft lumen, was successfully removed and replaced. PMID- 2521741 TI - Percutaneous atherectomy as an alternative treatment for postangioplasty obstructive intimal flaps. AB - Intimal flaps are commonly seen angiographically after percutaneous balloon angioplasty. Nonobstructive flaps are normally of little clinical significance, but flaps that obstruct blood flow may lead to partial or complete thrombosis. The Simpson atherectomy catheter was used to treat obstructive intimal flaps after angioplasty in four patients. Lumen patency was reestablished in all four cases. The clinical results were excellent, with rest pain and claudication resolved in all four patients and distal pulses reestablished in one. These findings suggest that the Simpson atherectomy catheter can be used to remove large obstructive flaps complicating angioplasty. PMID- 2521742 TI - Aorta balloon angioplasty: 9-year follow-up. AB - Nine-year patency and clinical effectiveness of balloon angioplasty of the aorta in a patient with Leriche syndrome are described. The morbidity of surgical intervention for aortoiliac disease is compared with that of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty. These results suggest that aortic balloon angioplasty is a safe and effective procedure with good long-term results. PMID- 2521743 TI - Endoluminal radio-frequency electrocautery for permanent ureteral occlusion in swine. AB - An animal experiment was undertaken to assess the feasibility of using radio frequency current-mediated thermal injury of the ureter to produce ureteral occlusion by means of an endoluminal approach. Through open pyelotomies, balloon angioplasty catheters coated with gold bipolar electrodes were introduced into the ureters. Doses (at 650 kHz) were delivered for specific energy totals in 13 of 15 ureters in eight pigs. Two ureters served as controls (balloon inflation without current application). In six experimental animals not killed immediately after the procedure, postoperative ureteral manometric studies and nephrostography were performed and nephrostomy drainage was maintained until death (1-8 weeks). Treatment with 200-400 J produced safe, reliable occlusion by 4 weeks. At histopathologic study at 4 and 8 weeks, necrotic muscularis propria had been replaced by fibrous tissue. Cardiac rhythm was not affected during treatment. PMID- 2521744 TI - 1989 SCVIR meeting abstracts. Society for Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiology. March 20-23, San Diego, California. PMID- 2521745 TI - Noncoronary angioplasty. AB - PTA is an established method of revascularization in a variety of medical conditions. It is performed for specific morphologic and clinical indications. PTA is the procedure of choice in Fontaine stage IIB through IV lower extremity ischemia due to iliac and/or femoropopliteal stenosis or short occlusion. Its role is less certain in infrapopliteal disease, although current studies have begun to establish long-term effectiveness. PTA is the procedure of choice for renal revascularization in renovascular hypertension due to fibromuscular disease or non-ostial atherosclerosis, selected cases of renal artery stenosis associated with renal insufficiency, and transplant renal artery stenosis. It is also useful in treating the renovascular component of complex hypertension and may be indicated in severe renal artery stenosis (75%-99%), even in the absence of clinically demonstrable RVHTN. PTA has limited applications in the venous system and only short-term success in the treatment of stenoses in dialysis access fistulas. PTA often serves as an important adjunct to surgical revascularization by providing improved inflow or outflow. PTA is the procedure of choice when anatomically feasible in subclavian steal syndrome. The role of PTA in carotid artery disease, particularly atheromatous disease of the internal carotid artery, is uncertain. The same may be said of PTA for vertebral artery stenosis, although the overwhelming majority of vertebral artery stenoses are morphologically suitable for PTA. PTA and surgery are both effective in the treatment of abdominal angina. There are more data available to verify the long-term patency of thromboendarterectomy and bypass grafts than PTA for mesenteric ischemia. However, since the technical success for PTA is high and since coronary co morbidity is the most common cause of perioperative mortality in surgical series, PTA should be seriously considered as the procedure of first choice. Serious complications of PTA occur in approximately 5% of cases. Two to three percent of PTA patients have complications requiring surgery or causing a prolongation or alteration of hospital course. The morbidity, mortality, and cost associated with PTA are low. The discomfort is minor, and postprocedural recovery rapid. The major limitations of PTA include its unsuitability for some lesions (long-segment occlusions and stenoses, orifice lesions, eccentric lesions) and postangioplasty restenosis. These problems are being addressed by ongoing laboratory and clinical research. In the near future, it is likely that endoluminal transmural sonography of the vessel wall will help guide our interventions. PMID- 2521746 TI - Immunoassay detection of drugs in racing horses. XI. ELISA and RIA detection of fentanyl, alfentanil, sufentanil and carfentanil in equine blood and urine. AB - We have developed and evaluated a one step enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test for sufentanil and a 125I radioimmunoassay test for alfentanil as part of a panel of pre- and post-race tests for narcotic analgesics in racing horses. Our sufentanil ELISA test detects sufentanil with an I-50 of about 0.5 ng/ml. The test is rapid and economical in that it can be read with an inexpensive spectrophotometer, or even by eye. The test readily detects the presence of sufentanil or its metabolites in equine blood and urine from 1 to 24 hours respectively after administration of therapeutic or sub-therapeutic doses of this drug. Our sufentanil assay also cross-reacts with fentanyl, the methylated analogs of fentanyl (designer fentanyls), and carfentanil and detected these drugs in urine for several hours after their administration to horses. It does not, however, cross-react significantly with alfentanil. We have also developed an 125I radioimmunoassay for alfentanil. This test allows detection of alfentanil in blood and urine of horses for up to 4 hours after administration of this drug. As such, these tests are capable of improving the quality and reducing the cost of pre-race and post-race testing for fentanyl, sufentanil, carfentanil and alfentanil and a number of their congeners in racing horses. Similarly, these tests are capable of screening for these drugs in human drug abuse monitoring. PMID- 2521747 TI - Protective effects of retinyl palmitate on streptozotocin- and alloxan-induced beta cell toxicity and diabetes in the rat. AB - The cellular effects of retinoids may be relevant to protection against chemical induced diabetes mellitus. To determine whether retinyl palmitate protects the beta cell from streptozotocin- and alloxan-induced diabetes, we injected streptozotocin, 60 mg/kg, or alloxan, 100 mg/kg, with or without varying doses of retinyl palmitate intraperitoneally or by tail vein. Plasma glucose was measured for over 4 weeks. To determine if the protective effects of retinyl palmitate were mediated through effects on superoxide dismutase, a scavenger of tissue free radicals, we determined whether retinyl palmitate affected islet superoxide dismutase activity. Retinyl palmitate, given intraperitoneally or by tail vein, protected against both streptozotocin- and alloxan-induced diabetes. The effect was dependent on the route of administration. When given intraperitoneally, the protective effect was greater than when given intravenously. When given by tail vein, the protective effect was dose dependent. Retinyl palmitate in vitro did not affect insulin secretion or islet superoxide dismutase. We conclude that retinyl palmitate treatment protects against streptozotocin- and alloxan-induced diabetes. Further studies are needed to determine whether retinyl palmitate protects against the development of diabetes in other animal models and whether this effect is relevant to diabetes in man. PMID- 2521748 TI - [Frequency of severe abdominal wall hemorrhage with subcutaneous anticoagulation using calcium-heparin]. AB - Four cases of severe bleeding among 50 elderly patients undergoing subcutaneous calcium heparin treatment are reported. In three patients the bleeding was localized in the abdominal wall and the fourth in the retroperitoneum; 2 patients died. Heparin doses ranged between 2x12,500 and 2x20,000 I.U/day. The thrombin times, measured before the next administration, were in the subtherapeutic range in all patients. We conclude that in elderly patients subcutaneous heparin treatment in therapeutic doses should be reserved for exceptional cases. PMID- 2521749 TI - [Chronic backache in migrant workers from Mediterranean countries in comparison to central European patients: demographic and psychosocial aspects]. AB - The standardized interviews of 26 chronic back pain patients from central Europe (Switzerland, Germany, Poland) were compared with those of 28 patients from Mediterranean countries (Italy, Spain, Yugoslavia, Turkey), all of whom had been referred for participation in an integrated treatment program for chronic back pain. The two samples differed significantly in most of the psychosocial aspects studied. Patients from Mediterranean countries had a significantly lower level of education and were mostly employed as unskilled workers, while patients from central Europe were mostly housewives or skilled workers with higher levels of education. In the Mediterranean sample the back pain had generally developed much faster into a disabling disease with the attendant consequences (sick leave, loss of job, litigation). More than one third of the Mediterranean patients lived with a partner who was also sick and unable to work. These patients also adopted a more passive stance towards their illness by rarely using self-help, and showed poor readiness to participate in the self-monitoring orientated treatment program proposed to them. They were less aware of the influence of their own behaviour on pain and of any relation between the illness and their present or previous life situation. They complained less of a broken home in their childhood or earlier medical problems, but more frequently reported suffering from poverty in their childhood. The uneven composition of the two samples reflects the special social situation of foreign workers from Mediterranean countries in central Europe. Unskilled workers are significantly overrepresented in the latter segment of the adult working population of the study area (city of Basel, Switzerland). This overrepresentation is similar to that in our patient sample. The special situation of foreign workers from Mediterranean countries seems to account for their high incidence of chronic intractable back pain. PMID- 2521751 TI - Occupational medicine. Workers' compensation, impairment and disability. AB - Workers' compensation laws impose a no-fault status on injuries and illness sustained in the workplace. Under the statutes, victims of industrial injuries or their survivors are assured prompt, equitable payment for medical expenses, lost wages and other expenses associated with their injuries. Each state, territory or province has developed its own laws governing workers' compensation. As a result, the type, amount and duration of benefits vary. The cost of workers' compensation benefits is paid by the employer. The National Safety Council estimates that these benefits cost employers almost $35 billion in 1986. Employers pay for these benefits through the purchase of insurance, by becoming self-insured, or by participating in a state-run fund. Each state has an agency, commission or board to oversee compliance with the law. PMID- 2521750 TI - [Basic principles of the humoral immune response]. AB - Lymphocytes carry on their cell surface receptors capable of specifically recognizing substances foreign to the organism. During the humoral immune response these foreign substances bind to the receptors of B lymphocytes and induce these cells to divide, to produce increased amounts of the receptors and to secrete the receptors in the form of soluble immunoglobulins into the extracellular milieu. This process requires the participation of T helper lymphocytes, factors called cytokines and organized microanatomic structures. PMID- 2521752 TI - Preliminary experience with interstitial radiation, interstitial hyperthermia and interstitial photodynamic therapy in a simple animal model. AB - This paper deals with interstitial radiation therapy (RT), interstitial hyperthermia (HT) and interstitial photodynamic therapy (PDT). Its main focus, however, is to describe a single animal model in which the interaction of these three modalities, when applied by interstitial techniques, can be studied. To serve this purpose a special template was designed by which the parallel interaction of catheters (sources) with a fixed spacing was facilitated. If necessary, radiation sources could be fixed into the tumor during the computed treatment time. The applicability of this simple design is demonstrated by the preliminary findings of two conducted pilot studies, that is with the combination of interstitial PDT + HT and the combination of interstitial HT + RT. PMID- 2521753 TI - Efficacy of a homoeopathic prophylaxis against experimental infection of calves by the bovine lungworm Dictyocaulus viviparus. AB - Two groups of parasite-free calves, one of which had been treated with four doses of a homoeopathic oral vaccine for parasitic bronchitis due to Dictyocaulus viviparus and the other with a placebo, were infected at the rate of 25 infective larvae/kg bodyweight 18 days after the final dose. Both groups became severely affected by parasitic bronchitis, with clinical signs starting 13 days after infection. There were no discernible differences between the treated and control groups in their manifestations of resistance to D viviparus or their clinical responses to the disease produced. PMID- 2521754 TI - Repression of transcription from the b2-att region of coliphage lambda by integration host factor. AB - The central b2-att region of coliphage lambda is known to be transcriptionally active in vitro, but silent in vivo in lambda lysogens. To explain such in vivo repression of transcription originating in the b2-att region, we explored the effect of the Escherichia coli integration host factor (IHF), the product of E. coli genes himA and himD, especially since the att region contains several IHF binding sites. Using various lambda DNA templates, we mapped the transcripts which are initiated in vitro in the attP region by the RNA polymerase and found that there are three rightward (RI, RII, and RIII) and one leftward (LI) transcripts. All four of them are repressed by a factor of about 10 by 10 micrograms IHF/ml. Moreover, in in vivo experiments we found that plasmids carrying the attP fragment cannot be established and maintained in IHF-hosts. These results indicate that IHF may play a significant auxiliary role in repressing transcription in the prophage state. PMID- 2521755 TI - DNA looping induced by bacteriophage lambda O protein: implications for formation of higher order structures at the lambda origin of replication. AB - A plasmid has been constructed, pOri2, which contains two lambda replication origin sequences separated by 1068 bp; both lambda sequences having the same orientation. When lambda initiation protein O is reacted with linearized pOri2 and examined by electron microscopy it is found to contain a looped area in which two parts of the plasmid are bound together by the O protein complex. Length measurements show that the O protein binds at the expected positions of the lambda origin sequences and that the looped area represents the DNA segment between the two O protein binding domains. Similar looping occurs in reactions with supercoiled pOri2 or if an amino-terminal fragment of O protein is used. When looped molecules are reacted with psoralen, crosslinked by irradiation with uv light, and then denatured, it is found that the looped area is more thermostable than the rest of the molecule. This indicates that the DNA within the looped segment is torsionally constrained while that outside the loop is free to rotate and suggests that simultaneous binding of O to two origins fixes the linkage number of the intervening DNA. The double origin binding ability of O may be diagnostic of the details of the reaction of O with a single origin sequence. A model is presented that rests on the assumption that O can produce microscopic looping between O protein binding sites within a single ori sequence. PMID- 2521756 TI - Fine needle aspiration cytology and immunocytochemistry in the diagnosis of lymphoid lesions of the thyroid gland. AB - Immunocytochemical analysis was used in conjunction with cytomorphology to evaluate fine needle aspirates from 18 patients with nodular lymphoid infiltrates of the thyroid. The smears from 13 patients had a cytomorphology that was diagnostic of chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis; immunocytochemistry showed the lymphoid population to be composed of T cells and polyclonal B cells. Three patients had high-grade malignant lymphomas by cytomorphology; immunologic evaluation showed the B-cell phenotype of the lymphoma cells and monoclonal light chain expression. Cytomorphology could not differentiate between an inflammatory and a neoplastic lymphoid infiltrate in two cases. Immunocytochemical analysis showed that the cells of B-cell phenotype were monoclonal (neoplastic) in one case and polyclonal (inflammatory) in one case. PMID- 2521757 TI - Aspiration cytology, immunocytochemistry and electron microscopy of a malignant peripheral neuroectodermal tumor. A case report. AB - The findings of fine needle aspiration (FNA) cytology, immunocytochemical staining and electron microscopy (EM) in a case of malignant peripheral neuroectodermal tumor (PNET) presenting as a soft tissue mass in the lateral abdominal wall are reported. The immediate evaluation of the aspirate revealed cells of a small round cell malignant tumor. To provide a specific preoperative diagnosis, additional cytologic material was aspirated for immunocytochemical and ultrastructural investigations. While the results of EM were nonspecific, allowing only the exclusion of other small round cell malignancies, immunocytochemical staining of the aspirate was suggestive of a PNET. The diagnosis of PNET was corroborated by histopathologic and immunohistochemical findings. This case indicates that an exact preoperative categorization of small round cell malignant tumors can be made by FNA biopsy in otherwise equivocal cases when immunocytochemical and ultrastructural techniques are also utilized. PMID- 2521758 TI - Degradation of atrial natriuretic peptide in dogs. AB - To clarify the degradation of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) in dogs, plasma ANP concentrations in blood samples drawn from the coronary sinus, and in simultaneously collected blood samples of the arteries and veins of the lung, liver, kidney, spleen and cervix, and of the supramesenteric artery and the portal vein, were measured, both when infused with exogenous ANP (280 ng.kg-1.min 1, N = 7) and when not infused (N = 6). Venous ANP concentrations in most organs showed lower values than arterial levels by 11.6 to 33.6%, suggesting degradation during circulation. Exogenous ANP infusion resulted in a 26.0 to 41.9% arterio venous decrease in ANP levels. These findings suggest that each organ contributes to ANP degradation, and that no specific organ plays a key role. The plasma ANP concentration was not reduced when blood samples were incubated for 60 min at 37 degrees C. The plasma from the coronary sinus and forearm vein contained essentially identical ANP molecular forms, as shown by gel permeation chromatography. Thus, the blood circulation through various organs does not cause high molecular weight ANP to be changed to other forms. PMID- 2521759 TI - Mass spectra of prostaglandins and related products. PMID- 2521760 TI - Nail and hyperkeratotic problems in the elderly foot. AB - Subungual hemorrhage, onychauxis, onychogryphosis, mycotic infections, onychia and paronychia are common toenail disorders in the elderly. The many contributing factors include impaired vision, changes in gait, past foot conditions and neurovascular disease. Hyperkeratotic disorders are secondary to external or internal pressure. Many of these foot problems are chronic conditions and require continuing management for relief. If improperly treated, some conditions may lead to amputation. PMID- 2521761 TI - The effect of radiofrequency-generated thermal energy on the mechanical and histologic characteristics of the arterial wall in vivo: implications for radiofrequency angioplasty. AB - Abrupt reclosure of atherosclerotic vessels after percutaneous transluminal balloon angioplasty has been blamed on traumatic dissections and elastic recoil of the vessel wall. Thermal energy with compression produces fusion of separated arterial wall layers, and heat appears to alter the elastic recoil of the vessel wall. Radiofrequency (RF) thermal energy has been used to perform vascular anastomoses and thermal angioplasty. A simple in vivo experiment was designed to describe and quantitate vascular tissue weld strength produced by a range of RF thermal energy levels. Canine carotid arteries were compressed between a pair of modified bipolar forceps that applied RF energy, causing occlusive tissue welds between the apposed intimal surfaces. The strength of the welds was evaluated by measuring the perfusion pressure required to reopen the vessel lumen. A dosimetry range of 0 to 205 joules showed a typical dose-response curve for the relationship between energy applied and bond strength, plateauing at approximately 300 mm Hg. Light microscopy showed fusion of the inner surfaces of the vessel with preservation of vessel wall architecture. Additionally inflation of a bipolar RF balloon catheter in the normal canine carotid lumen produced an alteration of vessel profile angiographically and histologically. Results of these preliminary experiments suggest that balloon angioplasty with adjunctive RF thermal energy may have benefits in reducing the factors causing acute failure of conventional percutaneous transluminal balloon angioplasty. PMID- 2521762 TI - Natriuresis associated with elevated plasma atrial natriuretic hormone during supraventricular tachycardia. AB - Elevated plasma levels of atrial natriuretic hormone (ANH) have been found in patients during paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) and other clinical syndromes. However, physiologic effects of this endogenous ANH have not been demonstrated. To determine whether the rise in ANH during SVT is associated with either a natriuresis or kaliuresis, urine sodium and potassium levels were measured in five patients at baseline and during SVT simulated by rapid atrioventricular pacing. Plasma ANH levels increased from 149 +/- 35 pmol/L at baseline to 187 +/- 31 pmol/L (p = 0.007) during SVT. Plasma vasopressin and renin levels were unchanged. Urine sodium levels increased 49% from 1.54 +/- 0.66 mEq/hr at baseline to 2.29 +/- 0.89 mEq/hr (p = 0.044) during SVT, and urine potassium levels increased 22% from 4.14 +/- 0.10 mEq/hr to 5.04 +/- 1.25 mEq/hr (p = 0.018). Urine sodium and potassium levels returned to baseline values 1 hour after pacing. Thus elevated plasma levels of ANH during SVT are associated with both a natriuresis and kaliuresis, which may represent physiologic effects of the endogenously secreted hormone. PMID- 2521763 TI - Rapid fall in elevated plasma atrial natriuretic peptide levels after successful catheter balloon valvuloplasty of mitral stenosis. AB - To determine whether an acute fall in atrial pressure decreases the secretion of atrial natriuretic peptide in man, changes in the plasma levels of this peptide were studied after catheter balloon valvuloplasty of the mitral valve. Ten patients with severe mitral stenosis were included in the study. The valvuloplasty resulted in an immediate reduction in left atrial pressure and an increase in the mitral valve area. Decreases in right atrial pressure were inconsistent and less significant. Plasma atrial natriuretic peptide levels, which were elevated before the valvuloplasty, decreased significantly in all 10 patients at 15 minutes after the valvuloplasty and reached lower plateaus at 30, 45, and 60 minutes after the procedure. In the seven patients studied for a longer period, both plasma atrial natriuretic peptide levels and the left atrial pressure remained reduced 24 hours after the valvuloplasty. Plasma atrial natriuretic peptide levels before and 30 to 60 minutes after the valvuloplasty were positively correlated to simultaneously determined left and right atrial pressures. These results indicate that atrial stretch caused by increased atrial pressure is an important stimulus for atrial natriuretic peptide release in man. "De-stretching" of the myocytes of the atria results in rapid inhibition of atrial natriuretic peptide secretion. PMID- 2521764 TI - Prohormone atrial natriuretic peptides 1-30, 31-67, and 99-126 increase in proportion to right ventricular pacing rate. AB - To determine whether heart rate contributes to release of three new peptide hormones synthesized in the heart, right ventricular pacing at rates of 100, 125, 150, and 180 bpm was performed in six dogs with measurement of the plasma concentration of these peptides at each pacing rate while right atrial and systemic blood pressures were simultaneously monitored. These three peptides of the 126-amino-acid prohormone of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF), consisting of amino acids 1-30 (pro ANF 1-30), 31-67 (pro ANF 31-67), and 99-126 (ANF), increased incrementally at paced heart rates of 125, 150, and 180 bpm (r = 0.8, p less than 0.001). Right atrial pressure decreased with increasing heart rate but systemic blood pressure did not decrease until the heart rate was 180 bpm, at which time these peptides had obtained their maximal circulating concentrations. After pacing, mean right atrial pressure and levels of ANF returned to prepacing values within 30 minutes. Mean arterial blood pressure, on the other hand, increased throughout the 120-minute period after pacing. At 2 hours after pacing, levels of pro ANFs 1-30 and 31-67 were elevated compared with prepacing values. These data demonstrate that, at heart rates of 125 bpm and above, pro ANF 1-30, pro ANF 31-67, and ANF (99-126) are simultaneously and incrementally released in direct proportion to heart rate. The sustained elevation in pro ANFs 1-30 and 31 67 seen 2 hours after pacing suggests that they may contribute to the prolonged diuresis seen after cardiac pacing or tachycardia. PMID- 2521765 TI - Emergency percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty during acute myocardial infarction for patients more than 70 years of age. AB - Thirty-five patients greater than 70 years of age with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) were treated with emergency percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA). Seventeen (49%) patients received previous thrombolytic therapy: streptokinase (10 patients), tissue plasminogen activator (6) and combined tissue plasminogen activator and urokinase (1). Infarct-related artery patency was achieved in 26 patients (74%) after PTCA. Total in-hospital mortality was 34%. Univariate analysis showed a higher in-hospital mortality in patients with an occluded vessel after PTCA (78%) than in those patients with a patient infarct-related artery (19%) (p = 0.003). Symptomatic coronary reocclusion occurred in 3 patients (15%) during the hospital stay. Compared with emergency PTCA in 200 consecutively treated patients less than 70 years of age, the in hospital mortality was increased (34 vs 6%, p less than 0.001), and the primary success rate was reduced (66 vs 90%, p less than 0.001). At a mean follow-up of 28 months, there has been a 13% out-of-hospital mortality rate in the elderly patients (3 patients died). Of the 20 surviving patients, 14 are asymptomatic and 6 have class II angina. In conclusion, emergency PTCA for AMI in elderly patients is associated with a decreased success rate and a higher mortality rate. However, the in-hospital mortality rate is not dissimilar to that in elderly AMI patients treated with conventional therapy or thrombolytic therapy alone, and the postdischarge mortality rates are low. PMID- 2521766 TI - Repeat percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty and predictors of recurrent restenosis. AB - One hundred seventeen consecutive patients undergoing repeat percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) were studied to assess procedural success and recurrent restenosis rates. Clinical, anatomic and procedural variables were examined as predictors of recurrent restenosis using stepwise logistic regression analysis. Primary success was achieved in 114 patients (97.5%). One patient (0.8%) died after acute occlusion. No other in-hospital complications were encountered. After a mean follow-up interval of 218 +/- 160 days, 72 of 114 successfully dilated patients (63%) remained angina free. There were no late deaths. Three patients (2.6%) experienced a late myocardial infarction. Follow-up arteriography was performed in 100 patients (88%), of whom 32% had recurrent restenosis (greater than 50% luminal diameter narrowing). On univariate analysis, the presence of 3 clinical variables at repeat PTCA was associated with significantly higher recurrent restenosis rates compared with their absence, that is, unstable angina (48 vs 20%, p = 0.003), diabetes (61 vs 26%, p = 0.003) and hypertension (46 vs 18%, p = 0.003). Patients with recurrent restenosis had a shorter interval between first and second PTCA compared with those who remained patent (136 +/- 116 vs 214 +/- 163 days, p = 0.018). Multivariate analysis confirmed unstable angina, diabetes and hypertension as independent predictors of recurrent restenosis. Repeat PTCA may be performed for restenosis with a high likelihood of success and low incidence of complications. The rate of recurrent restenosis is similar to that reported for initial angioplasty. Patients with unstable angina, diabetes and hypertension appear to be at higher risk for recurrent restenosis. PMID- 2521767 TI - Intravenous dipyridamole-induced myocardial ischemia during percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty in humans. AB - Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty was used as a model of controlled myocardial ischemia to study the effect of intravenous dipyridamole on myocardial ischemia and coronary hemodynamics in 10 patients. All patients had 1-vessel coronary artery disease with visualized collaterals. Intravenous dipyridamole increased myocardial ischemia during inflations. ST elevation, as measured by intracoronary electrogram, increased significantly from the control inflation to the second inflation after dipyridamole injection (0.05 +/- 0.23 vs 0.44 +/- 0.43 mV, p less than 0.03). Of the 10 patients, 8 developed new or more severe angina with subsequent inflations after dipyridamole. The pulmonary artery wedge pressure increased significantly from the control inflation to the fourth inflation (15 +/- 8 vs 20 +/- 9 mm Hg, p less than 0.05). The coronary wedge pressure showed a decreasing trend with subsequent inflations after dipyridamole but did not reach statistical significance. The double product (heart rate X blood pressure) was not significantly altered by dipyridamole. The findings indicate that intravenous dipyridamole increases myocardial ischemia during balloon occlusion. The constancy of the double product and the trend toward a decrease in coronary wedge pressure suggest that dipyridamole may induce ischemia by reducing the amount of collateral flow through a coronary steal phenomenon. PMID- 2521768 TI - Patterns of cardiac care in infants with Down syndrome. AB - To determine if the pattern of cardiac care is affected by the presence of Down syndrome (DS) we analyzed the records of infants enrolled in the Baltimore Washington Infant Study, a regional case-control study of congenital cardiovascular malformations. The age at cardiac diagnosis, the timing of cardiac surgery, and the one-year outcome were compared in 160 infants with DS and 540 infants with the same cardiac diagnoses but without chromosomal or other extracardiac anomalies (Isolated cardiovascular malformation [ICM] group). Cardiac referral and diagnosis were accomplished by 13 weeks of age in 78% of infants with DS and 67% of those with ICMs. However, by 26 weeks of age, the proportion of infants in both groups was comparable. Cardiac surgery was performed before 1 year of age in 99 of 160 infants with DS and in 141 of 540 infants with ICMs. The surgical outcome was similar in the two groups. We conclude that for defects of comparable severity, the pattern of cardiac care in the Baltimore-Washington, DC, area for infants with DS is timely and comparable to care for infants with ICMs. PMID- 2521769 TI - Circadian rhythm of atrial natriuretic peptide, plasmatic renin activity, and plasma aldosterone in compensated cirrhosis of the liver. PMID- 2521770 TI - Branching enzyme activity of cultured amniocytes and chorionic villi: prenatal testing for type IV glycogen storage disease. AB - Although type IV glycogen storage disease (Andersen disease; McKusick 23250) is considered to be a rare, autosomally recessive disorder, of the more than 600 patients with glycogenosis identified in our laboratory by enzymatic assays, 6% have been shown to be deficient in the glycogen branching enzyme. Most of the 38 patients with type IV glycogen storage disease who are known to us have succumbed at a very early age, with the exception of one male teenager, an apparently healthy 7-year-old male, and several 5-year-old patients. Fourteen pregnancies at risk for branching enzyme deficiency have been monitored using cultured amniotic fluid cells, and four additional pregnancies have been screened using cultured chorionic villi. Essentially no branching enzyme activity was detectable in eight samples (amniocytes); activities within the control range were found in five samples (three amniocyte and two chorionic villi samples); and five samples appeared to have been derived from carriers. In two of the cases lacking branching enzyme activity, in which the pregnancies were terminated and fibroblasts were successfully cultured from the aborted fetuses, no branching enzyme activity was found. Another fetus, which was predicted by antenatal assay to be affected, was carried to term. Skin fibroblasts from this baby were deficient in branching enzyme. Pregnancies at risk for glycogen storage disease due to the deficiency of branching enzyme can be successfully monitored using either cultured chorionic villi or amniocytes. PMID- 2521771 TI - Evidence from family studies that the gene causing Huntington disease is telomeric to D4S95 and D4S90. AB - A DNA probe (D4S95) that detects a variable number of tandem repeats and a single site-variation polymorphism after digestion with a single restriction enzyme, AccI, has previously been described. The order of this probe relative to the gene for Huntington disease (HD) and other previously described markers has not been established. Analysis of 24 affected families with HD has shown that D4S95 is in tight linkage with the gene causing HD, with a maximal Lod score of 12.489 at a theta of .03. D4S90 is a probe which maps to 4p16.3, telomeric to D4S95, and detects polymorphisms with HincII and other enzymes. In one affected person, recombination has occurred between D4S10 and HD, between D4S95 and HD, and in all likelihood also between D4S90 and HD, which strongly suggests that the gene for HD is telomeric to all these DNA probes. This suggests that the gene causing HD is located in the most distal region of the short arm of chromosome 4, flanked by D4S90 and the telomere, and supports the locus order D4S10-D4S95-D4S90-HD telomere. D4S95 is a most useful DNA marker for predictive testing programs, while D4S90 will serve as a useful starting point for identifying DNA fragments closer to the gene for HD. PMID- 2521772 TI - Selective increase in placental blood flow by atrial natriuretic peptide in hypertensive rats. AB - Effects of atrial natriuretic peptide on systemic, renal, uterine, and placental hemodynamics were determined in 16-day pregnant normotensive and hypertensive rats and in 20-day pregnant normotensive rats under pentobarbital anesthesia. Relative to 16-day pregnant normotensive rats, the total peripheral resistance was higher in 16-day pregnant hypertensive and 20-day pregnant normotensive rats; atrial natriuretic peptide significantly (p less than 0.05) decreased the total peripheral resistance in the latter two groups of animals. Atrial natriuretic peptide increased the placental blood flow in each of the three groups of animals without significantly affecting renal blood flow. This selective increase in placental blood flow normalized placental hemodynamics in hypertensive rats. PMID- 2521773 TI - Injury and remodeling of pulmonary veins by high oxygen. A morphometric study. AB - Breathing 87% oxygen at normobaric pressure for 28 days injuries and remodels the wall of distal pulmonary veins (less than or equal to 150 mu). Occluded vessels are evident, as are vessel remnants in which wall integrity is lost (obliterated vessels). Significantly more veins have a muscular or partially muscular wall than normal (P less than or equal to 0.001 for veins in each size category less than or equal to 150 mu, chi-square test). In some veins new muscle develops between an external and internal lamina but in many it develops within the intima, beneath the endothelium and adluminal to a single lamina. Small veins (20 25 mu in ED) with a muscular or partially muscular wall are present only in the hyperoxic lung. Increase in the percent medial thickness (%MT) of veins indicates lumen narrowing: this is relatively greater in the smallest veins. Reduction in the cross-sectional area of venous segments that are immediately postcapillary, by lumen narrowing or occlusion, contributes to the restriction of the pulmonary vascular bed by hyperoxia. PMID- 2521774 TI - A beta 1-integrin receptor for fibronectin in human kidney glomeruli. AB - The fibronectin receptor (FNR) is a transmembrane heterodimeric glycoprotein which shares a common beta 1-chain with several other members of the integrin family of adhesion receptors. The authors have prepared a membrane fraction of isolated human glomeruli, from which two proteins (apparent molecular weights 120 kd and 140 kd) bound to a fibronectin-column, and were selectively released by the synthetic peptide Arg-Gly-Asp-Ser. These molecules were labeled in immune overlays by an antibody raised against the FNR from human placenta that recognizes both the FNR-specific a-chain and the group-specific beta 1-integrin chain. In sections of normal human kidneys this antibody labeled predominately the mesangia and the peripheral capillary walls of glomeruli by an immunoperoxidase procedure. Quantitative immunoelectron microscopy, using an indirect immunogold procedure, revealed a preferential localization along the cell membranes of mesangial, epithelial, and endothelial cells that face the mesangial matrix or the glomerular basement membrane (GBM). In kidney biopsies from patients with various glomerular diseases (membranous and other forms of glomerulonephritis, minimal change disease) the distribution was similar to that in normal glomeruli. These findings indicate that a beta 1-integrin-related FNR is present in normal and diseased human glomeruli. PMID- 2521775 TI - Response to atrial natriuretic peptide in dogs with hypovolemic acute pancreatitis. AB - The ability of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) to preserve renal function in dogs with hypovolemic acute renal insufficiency was tested in anesthetized dogs 4 h after the induction of acute pancreatitis. Plasma volume had decreased by 21.5% and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) by 43.2%. Blood pressure had declined by 30 mmHg. ANP was given intravenously at 50 and 150 ng.kg-1.min-1. With the lower dose, blood pressure (BP), GFR, and clearance of p-aminohippuric acid (CPAH) did not change but urine flow (V) and sodium excretion (UNaV) increased. With the higher dose, BP declined by 25 mmHg, GFR declined, but V and UNaV still increased. When plasma volume was maintained with 4% colloid during the progression of pancreatitis and ANP 50 ng.kg-1.min-1 given, BP declined, GFR did not change, and there was a magnified increment in V and UNaV. The administration of glucagon (5 micrograms/min iv) to dogs with hypovolemic pancreatitis caused BP to decline by 17 mmHg. Despite a major increment in GFR, fractional excretion of sodium increased only slightly, compared with that obtained with ANP. We conclude that glucagon preserves GFR more effectively than ANP in hypovolemia, but ANP is more effective in protecting urinary water and sodium excretion. PMID- 2521777 TI - Attenuated response to atrial natriuretic peptide in rats with myocardial infarction. AB - The natriuretic, diuretic, and hypotensive effects of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) were examined in rats 4 wk after myocardial infarction induced by left coronary artery ligation. Synthetic rat ANP (fragment 1-28) was infused intravenously in doses of 0.1, 0.3, and 1.0 micrograms.kg-1.min-1 for 30 min. There was a significant decrease in systolic blood pressure in controls and rats with infarction, although only in control rats was there a significant decrease in diastolic blood pressure. Changes in systolic and diastolic blood pressure were attenuated in rats with infarction compared with controls (P less than 0.01). The diuretic and natriuretic effects of ANP were observed in both groups of rats, but the effects were significantly less in rats with infarction (P less than 0.01). The ANP infusion did not induce significant changes in heart rate or hematocrit in controls or rats with infarction. The results indicate that rats with chronic left heart failure are less sensitive to the natriuretic, diuretic, and hypotensive effects of ANP when compared with controls. The attenuated renal response to ANP may contribute to the impaired sodium and water excretion in chronic heart failure, although other mechanisms are involved. PMID- 2521776 TI - Vasopressin contributes to maintenance of arterial blood pressure in dehydrated baboons. AB - This study primarily sought to determine whether the role of vasopressin (VP) in maintenance of arterial blood pressure is enhanced in awake, chronically instrumented baboons after 68-72 h of dehydration. This question was approached by pharmacologically blocking vasopressin V1-receptors in euhydrated and dehydrated baboons with or without a normally functioning renin-angiotensin system (RAS). VP blockade during dehydration produced a rapidly occurring (within 5 min), statistically significant (P less than 0.05) decrease in mean arterial pressure (MAP) of 5 +/- 1 mmHg in the RAS-intact condition and an identical decline in MAP (5 +/- 1 mmHg) during blockade of the RAS by captopril, an angiotensin I-converting enzyme inhibitor. At 15 min after induction of VP blockade, heart rate was elevated by 9 +/- 2 beats/min in the RAS-intact condition and by 20 +/- 5 beats/min in the RAS-blocked condition. In addition, VP blockade in the dehydrated state produced small and equal increases in hindlimb vascular conductance in RAS-intact and RAS-blocked conditions. None of these cardiovascular changes were produced by VP blockade in the euhydrated state. RAS blockade produced modest declines in MAP in both hydration states, but the fall was larger by 7 +/- 4 mmHg in the dehydrated state. Thus both VP and the RAS contribute to the maintenance of arterial blood pressure during dehydration in the conscious baboon. PMID- 2521778 TI - Regional hemodynamic effects of calcitonin gene-related peptide. AB - Cardiovascular responses to infusions of rat alpha-calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP; 0.06, 0.6, 6.0 nmol/h) or rat alpha-atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP; 3.7 nmol/h) were measured in conscious rats. During infusion of the low dose of CGRP, when mean arterial pressure (MAP) was little affected, there were reductions in common carotid, renal, mesenteric, and hindquarter vascular resistances (the magnitude of the responses in the same descending order). However, only flow in the common carotid vessels was increased above base line. After infusion, there was a hindquarter vasoconstriction. During infusion of the higher doses of CGRP, there were dose-related decreases in MAP and increases in heart rate associated with (hyperemic) hindquarter vasodilatations and mesenteric vasoconstrictions. The common carotid vasodilatation peaked with the intermediate dose of CGRP; the changes in renal vascular resistance were not dose related. After infusion of the high dose of CGRP there were persistent (at least 60 min) common carotid and hindquarter vasodilatations and mesenteric vasoconstriction, with a transient overshoot in renal vascular resistance. Infusions of CGRP and ANP matched for their effects on MAP had similar influences on mesenteric hemodynamics, but all other variables were affected differently. PMID- 2521779 TI - Carotid sinus baroreflex control of beta-endorphin release in anesthetized dogs. AB - A quantitative assessment of the carotid sinus baroreflex release of endogenous plasma beta-endorphin-like immunoreactive material has been established. The carotid sinuses of 12 pentobarbital sodium-anesthetized dogs were isolated bilaterally and perfused with a constant pressure maintained by infusion or withdrawal of normal saline. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) were monitored. Carotid sinus pressure (CSP) was changed from 200 to 50 mmHg in 25 mmHg steps before and after vagotomy. At each interval of CSP, 10 ml mixed venous blood were collected, and beta-endorphin-like peptides were extracted from plasma and assayed. Concentrations of plasma beta-endorphin-like material were determined by radioimmunoassay. Sigmoidal responses of MAP and HR were revealed during changes in CSP. No significant differences in beta-endorphin-like immunoreactivity (beta-END-L-I) were measured at CSP of 200 and 50 in the intact condition (35.9 +/- 3.9 and 35.0 +/- 6.4 fm/ml, respectively). However, after vagotomy, beta-END-L-I measured at 50 mmHg CSP was significantly elevated to 53.3 +/- 5.2 fm/ml compared with the value of 35.5 +/- 7.2 fm/ml at CSP of 200 mmHg. The results suggest that the release of beta-endorphin is modulated by the action of the carotid baroreflex as a normal component of an integrated efferent response. However, this response is normally buffered by reflexes with vagal afferents. PMID- 2521780 TI - Posttranslational processing of opioid pro-opiomelanocortin products in piglets. AB - We have measured levels of beta-lipotropin, beta-endorphin, and N-acetyl-beta endorphin in the plasma, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and caudal medullary brain containing the respiratory-related portion of the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS) of 2.5 +/- 1.0- (SD) and 38.2 +/- 3.7-day-old naive uninstrumented piglets. Time of day, ambient atmosphere, temperature, handling, sound, light, and nutritional status were kept constant. Experimental procedure included decapitation and rapid collection, processing, and freezing of tissues until analysis by radioimmunoassay. Young, compared with older piglets, have higher measured levels of beta-lipotropin in the plasma and CSF and of N-acetyl-beta endorphin in all three body compartments. Although measured levels of beta endorphin-like immunoreactivity are also higher in the plasma and CSF of the young group, the calculated level of beta-endorphin is higher only in the CSF. In the NTS, both the measured and calculated active endorphin appear higher in the older group, but this difference is not significant. Excess beta-endorphin in the CSF of neonates may explain the relative immaturity of their respiratory functions at birth. PMID- 2521781 TI - Neuronal and cardiovascular responses to ANF microinjected into the solitary nucleus. AB - The effect on single-unit activity, arterial pressure, and heart rate of a microinjection of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) into 78 histologically verified sites in the nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS) was investigated in rats. Injections of 50 nl of 10(-7) M ANF excited 34 neurons (44%), mainly localized at the level of the obex, inhibited 15 (19%), and had no effect on the remaining 29 (37%). The increase in firing frequency of the 34 excited neurons was always followed by a decline in mean arterial pressure [MAP, -10.6 +/- 1.8 (SE) mmHg; P less than 0.01] and heart rate [HR, -9.6 +/- 3.1 (SE) beats/min; P less than 0.05]. When injections of ANF caused either no effect or inhibition of single-unit activity, no changes in either MAP or HR were observed. Single units excited by injections of ANF were also excited by activation of arterial baroreceptors and inhibited by baroreceptor unloading. Control injections of an inactive peptide analogue of ANF or of vehicle never produced any effects on neuronal firing frequency or on MAP and HR. Similar results were obtained from animals paralyzed and artificially ventilated. These results support the hypothesis that ANF plays a role in the chemical transmission of baroreceptor information within the NTS. PMID- 2521782 TI - Surface microscopy. A new approach to the diagnosis of cutaneous pigmented tumors. AB - Clinical guidelines for the diagnosis of pigmented lesions of the skin are not always reliable. Surface microscopy (SM) represents an interesting approach to this problem. For this in vivo investigation, a stereomicroscope, a glass slide, and immersion oil are used. In the present study, the various criteria of SM that cannot be discerned by the naked eye are correlated with the histopathological structures in step-sectioned specimens. Characteristic SM features such as the pigment network, "black dots," or "irregular extensions" were found to correspond to particular histological findings. SM opens a new dimension of clinical morphology for the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of malignant melanomas, dysplastic nevi, or nonmelanocytic pigmented neoplasms, and facilitates a more reliable preoperative assessment of these lesions. PMID- 2521783 TI - Clinical, immunohistochemical, and electron-microscopic findings in gold dermatitis. AB - The clinical, immunohistochemical, and electronmicroscopic features of 13 consecutive patients with gold dermatitis were analyzed: 12 developed an eczematous dermatitis and one a lichenoid dermatosis. The patients had received intramuscular sodium aurothiomalate therapy from 1 month to 4 years before the dermatitis broke out. After cessation of gold therapy, the dermatitis persisted for 1-11 months. A relatively sparse perivascular mononuclear cell infiltrate was found in the affected skin in all cases. With immunoperoxidase staining, most of the infiltrating cells were shown to be OKT-4-positive T-helper lymphocytes. A majority of the infiltrating cells were Ia, i.e., HLA class II antigen, positive. Clearly increased numbers of dermal OKT-6-positive Langerhans' cells were also seen. In epidermis, on the contrary, the expression of both OKT-6 and Ia markers on dendritic cells was decreased. However, electron-microscopic examination revealed large numbers of macrophage-like cells and the Langerhans cells were activated, often in apposition to mononuclear cells within the epidermis. No correlation was observed between the immunohistological findings and the amount of gold received, the duration of gold therapy, and the interval between the last gold injection and biopsy, respectively, although peripheral blood eosinophilia was more common during 5-10 months of gold therapy. There were no specific findings in the patients in whom dermatitis lasted several months after discontinuation of the therapy. Our findings support the view that immunological mechanisms operate in the development of gold dermatitis, although the exact mechanisms remain unknown. PMID- 2521785 TI - Identification of the precursor protein for the heparan sulfate proteoglycan of human colon carcinoma cells and its post-translational modifications. AB - Human colon carcinoma cells synthesize a high-molecular-weight heparan sulfate proteoglycan which is localized at the cell surface. In this study we have performed a series of immunoprecipitation and pulse-chase experiments associated with various pharmacological agents that interfere with the synthesis and post translational modification of the proteoglycan. We demonstrate that colon carcinoma cells synthesize the heparan sulfate proteoglycan from a 400-kDa precursor protein that is immunologically related to the Engelbreth-Holm-Swarm (EHS) tumor cell proteoglycan. The cells contain a large pool of precursor protein with a half-life of about 75 min. Most of the precursor protein receives heparan sulfate side chains and is then transported to the cell surface and released into the medium. A portion of the precursor pool, however, does not receive heparan sulfate chains but is secreted into the medium. The glycosylation and subsequent secretion of the 400-kDa precursor protein was inhibited by NH4Cl and even more by monensin, indicating that the transit of precursor from the rough endoplasmic reticulum to the cell surface occurred through the Golgi complex and acidic compartments. The existence of a sizable pool of precursor protein was confirmed by additional experiments using cycloheximide and xyloside. These experiments showed that the half-life of the precursor protein was also 75 min and that stimulation of heparan sulfate synthesis by xyloside was greatly enhanced (about 12-fold) after new protein core synthesis was blocked by cycloheximide. Although the structural models proposed for the EHS and colon carcinoma heparan sulfate proteoglycans differ, the observation that they are derived from a precursor protein with dimensional and immunological similarities suggests that they may be genetically related. PMID- 2521784 TI - Ultrastructural aspects of atrium development: demonstration of endocardial discontinuities and immunolabeling of atrial natriuretic factor in the Syrian hamster. AB - The endocardium ultrastructure of 13 embryonic day old hamsters was examined, especially in relationship with the atrial myocytes. The endothelial morphology was described, including the junctional attachments and their relationships with subjacent atrial myocytes. Characteristic atrial myocytes organelles were identified: myofibrils, atrial granules, lipidic inclusions, and polysomes. Immunogold labeling demonstrated that atrial natriuretic factor (ANF)-containing granules were already present in the differentiating cardiomyocytes, even before the myofibrils were completely organized. At this stage of development, while the endothelium was a narrow barrier between the blood and the cardiomyocytes, it displayed fenestrations, but also epithelial discontinuities. In addition it also contains immunoreactive-ANF products. In light of the current knowledge about ANF processing it was proposed that the endocardium lining could be an obligated passageway for transport or activating proANF into ANF before its release into the blood stream. In addition the endocardial gaps could suggest that, until about 13 to 14 days of fetal development, heart atrial tissue could be more susceptible to the effects of pathogenetic compounds than in a later state of development. PMID- 2521786 TI - Properties of the interaction between phosphofructokinase and actin. AB - The interaction of rabbit skeletal muscle phosphofructokinase (PFK) with actin is characterized in terms of the binding of PFK to actin in the presence and absence of tropomyosin and troponin, the effect of PFK on actin polymerization, and the involvement of adenylates in the binding of PFK to actin. The thin filament proteins, tropomyosin and troponin, are associated with skeletal muscle actin and reduce the binding of PFK to actin, thus influencing the probable distribution of PFK in skeletal muscle. The binding of PFK to actin is inhibited by ATP and ADP but not by fructose 6-phosphate or fructose 2,6-bisphosphate. This specific inhibition, plus evidence from fluorescence quenching and photoaffinity labeling, suggests that actin binds at the adenosine activation sites of PFK. Light scattering measurements used to monitor actin polymerization indicate that PFK dramatically increases the level of light scattering produced by the polymerization of actin, indicative of a superaggregate of PFK and actin. PFK inhibits the polymerization of actin when polymerization is induced by low concentrations of added salts. Although PFK binds to actin with high affinity, it seems to have little effect on the high shear viscosity of actin filaments. PMID- 2521787 TI - Histamine H1 receptors mediate increased blood-retinal barrier permeability in experimental diabetes. AB - To test the hypothesis that histamine receptors mediate increased blood-retinal barrier permeability in experimental diabetes, 51 rats were made diabetic by streptozocin injection (65 mg/kg; jugular vein) and were held for four weeks. The seven animal groups were as follows: untreated controls; untreated diabetic rats; diabetic rats receiving diphenhydramine hydrochloride (Benadryl); diabetic rats receiving cimetidine hydrochloride (Tagamet); diabetic rats receiving diphenhydramine and cimetidine; diabetic rats receiving purified pork insulin (Iletin II); and diabetic rats receiving insulin and diphenhydramine. All treatments were given during the last week. Blood-retinal barrier permeability was assessed through measurement of the vitreous content of fluorescein isothiocyanate conjugated to bovine serum albumin (FITCBSA) after 20 minutes of FITCBSA circulation. Vitreous FITCBSA content of the diabetic group was 64% greater than control content. Diabetic rats treated with either diphenhydramine or diphenhydramine and insulin had respective decreases of 43% and 40% in vitreous FITCBSA content. The vitreous content of the diabetic group receiving insulin was lowered 37% below untreated diabetic values, while the vitreous FITCBSA content of the diabetic group receiving both insulin and diphenhydramine was reduced 63%. These data indicate that retinal histamine H1-receptor activation may be partially responsible for initial blood-retinal barrier leakage of macromolecules into the vitreous and that this abnormal leakage can be prevented both by diphenhydramine and by insulin. Histamine H1 receptors may play an important role in mediating increased blood-retinal barrier permeability in experimental diabetes. PMID- 2521788 TI - Brain natriuretic peptide is a novel cardiac hormone. AB - Using a radioimmunoassay for brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), we have measured levels of BNP-like immunoreactivity (-LI) in extract of the porcine heart, in perfusate from the isolated porcine heart and in porcine plasma. BNP-LI was detected in the extract of the atrium, though no detectable amount of BNP-LI (more than 1 ng/g) was present in the ventricle. The BNP-LI level in the porcine atrium was 148.7 +/- 23.3 ng/g. BNP-LI was also detected in the perfusate from the heart. Basal secretory rate of BNP was 3.18 +/- 0.76 ng/min. Moreover, BNP-LI was detected in porcine plasma at the concentration of 4.2 +/- 1.3 pg/ml. Gel filtration studies showed that BNP is present in the atrium as a large molecule and is secreted into the circulation as a small molecule. The percentage of BNP LI to atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP)-LI was almost the same among the extract, the perfusate and the plasma (2-3 percent). These results indicate that BNP is synthesized in and is secreted into the circulation from the heat in a similar fashion as ANP. PMID- 2521789 TI - A yeast strain with mutated beta-subunits of mitochondrial ATPase-ATPsynthase: high azide and bicarbonate sensitivity of the ATPase activity. AB - A phenotypic revertant with modified beta-subunits of mitochondrial ATPase-ATP synthase has been obtained for the first time by selection from a beta-less mutant of the yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe. Contrary to the parental mutant, the phenotypic revertant grows on glycerol, has normal respiratory activity and shows immunodetectable beta-subunits. However the kinetic properties of its submitochondrial particles ATPase activity differ markedly from those of the wild strain. The optimal pH is increased by about one unit. The maximal rate of the revertant ATPase activity at pH 8.5 is 4 to 5-fold lower than that of the wild strain, but it can be greatly increased upon addition of bicarbonate whereas the wild strain is completely insensitive to this anion. Furthermore the revertant ATPase activity is much more sensitive to azide inhibition. The results suggest that ADP dissociation is the rate-limiting step of ATP hydrolysis by the revertant. PMID- 2521790 TI - Monoamine oxidase, brain ageing and degenerative diseases. PMID- 2521791 TI - Exercise blood pressure response and left ventricular hypertrophy. AB - Although hypertension is the major cause of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), numerous studies failed to demonstrate a close correlation between resting blood pressure (BP) and degree of LVH. Some authors have shown better correlation between BP at work and left ventricular mass (LV mass), whereas other studies supported an association between catecholamines or angiotensin II and LV mass. In this study we investigated the relationship of resting and exercise BP and catecholamines to the degree of LVH. Nineteen patients with established mild to moderate hypertension were studied. Blood pressure was measured following a ten minute rest and every three minutes during exercise using a Bruce protocol. Electrolytes, epinephrine (EP), and norepinephrine (NE) were measured at rest, at peak exercise, and at ten-minutes postexercise. Resting BP averaged 154 +/- 24/99 +/- 9 mm Hg and at three minutes of exercise 195 +/- 30/101 +/- 6 (P less than .001). Resting EP was 51 +/- 20 pg/mL, NE 314 +/- 187, and at peak exercise EP was 107 +/- 61 (P less than .001) and NE 1016 +/- 566 (P less than .001). The average LV mass was 277 +/- 85 g. A significant correlation was found only between systolic BP at three minutes of exercise and LV mass (r = .479, P less than .04). No other variable correlated significantly with LV mass. These data suggest that systolic BP achieved at low level of exercise (5 mets), corresponding to usual daily activities, may be the most important determinant of LVH in patients with hypertension. PMID- 2521792 TI - Left ventricular hypertrophy as a factor in arrhythmias and sudden death. AB - Hypertensive patients with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) are predisposed to sudden cardiac death. Several studies have demonstrated that complex ventricular arrhythmias, including episodes of nonsustained ventricular tachycardia, occur commonly during ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring of hypertensive patients with LVH. The prognostic significance of such arrhythmias is not known. In other forms of cardiac hypertrophy, however, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, complex ventricular arrhythmias detected during ambulatory monitoring are predictive of subsequent sudden death and there is some evidence that appropriate antiarrhythmic drug therapy may reduce mortality. PMID- 2521794 TI - The myth of skeletal muscle spasm. PMID- 2521795 TI - Can social workers damage your dental health? PMID- 2521793 TI - Electrophysiologic effects of left ventricular hypertrophy in the intact cat. AB - Electrophysiologic abnormalities have been described in isolated, hypertrophied left ventricular tissue removed from animals exposed to a chronic pressure load. However, changes in electrical properties of intact hypertrophied hearts have not been described. To study this question, 15 cats underwent supraventricular aortic banding and five underwent a sham procedure. After ten weeks, the animals were anesthetized and instrumented using paired transmural plunge electrodes and endocardial quadripolar pacing catheters. Measurement of pacing threshold, refractoriness, inducibility of ventricular arrhythmias (using programmed electrical stimulation), and vulnerability to ventricular fibrillation (ventricular fibrillation threshold) were made in both groups. Mean left ventricular mass was significantly greater in the banded compared with sham operated animals (2.5 +/- 0.9 v 2.1 +/- 0.5 g/kg body weight; P less than .05). Pacing thresholds and refractory periods measured at multiple left and right ventricular sites were similar in both groups, and there was no difference in the extent of site-to-site differences in refractoriness (dispersion). Six banded but no sham animals had inducible ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation using programmed stimulation. Furthermore, left ventricular mass was significantly greater in animals with inducible arrhythmias compared with those noninducible (P less than .05). Ventricular fibrillation thresholds, measured in milliamperes (mA), in the banded animals were significantly lower in the left ventricle (13.5 +/- 1.3 mA) than in the right (21.7 +/- 3.2 mA; P less than .05) and was also lower than the thresholds obtained in either the left or right ventricle of the sham-operated animals (18.3 +/- 1.9 mA and 20.1 +/- 1.1 mA, respectively).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521796 TI - Circulating activated suppressor T lymphocytes in hepatitis-associated aplastic anaemia. AB - Lymphocyte subpopulations were measured in the blood of 21 children with severe aplastic anaemia (SAA). Five children with hepatitis-associated AA appeared to constitute a unique group. Compared with children with idiopathic AA, four of five children had a striking increase in percentage of activated suppressor T lymphocytes, which were defined by binding of both anti-Leu 2a and anti-HLA DR monoclonal antibodies (children with hepatitis-associated AA, 21.8 +/- 19.9% [mean +/- SD], children with idiopathic AA, 2.9 +/- 1.2%). However, there was no difference in the mean absolute number of the activated suppressor T lymphocytes between the two groups, because the mean number of lymphocytes was markedly less in children with hepatitis-associated AA (0.28 +/- 0.06 x 10(9)/l) than in those with idiopathic AA (1.64 +/- 0.74 x 10(9)/l). The mean helper: suppressor T lymphocyte ratio was significantly lower in children with hepatitis-associated AA (0.58 +/- 0.74) than in those with idiopathic AA (1.22 +/- 0.44). On the other hand, we did not find such a remarkable alteration of lymphocyte subpopulations in children with non-A non-B hepatitis who did not develop AA. These findings suggested that an imbalance of lymphocyte subpopulations and T lymphocyte activation may have pathogenetic relevance in some of the children with hepatitis associated AA. PMID- 2521797 TI - Positions of the sites labeled by N-cyclohexyl-N'-(4-dimethylamino-1 naphthyl)carbodiimide on the (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-ATPase. AB - N-Cyclohexyl-N'-(4-dimethylamino-1-naphthyl)carbodiimide (NCD-4) labels (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-ATPase at Ca2+-protectable sites, believed to be at or near the two Ca2+ binding sites on the ATPase, and at nonspecific sites. The labeled ATPase has been reconstituted into lipid bilayers containing phosphatidylethanolamine labeled with fluorescein isothiocyanate. The distance between NCD-4 and fluorescein groups was measured using Forster energy transfer and the NCD-4 labels were found to be approx. 20 A from the lipid/water interface suggesting that the Ca2+ binding sites on the ATPase are also 20 A from the lipid/water interface. Addition of vanadate causes no change in the efficiency of energy transfer, suggesting that the Ca2+ binding sites on the E1 conformation of the ATPase do not move significantly with respect to the lipid/water interface in the E1-E2 transition. PMID- 2521798 TI - Electrostatic analysis of effects of ions on the inhibition of corn root plasma membrane Mg2+-ATPase by the bivalent orthovanadate. AB - The microelectrophoretic mobility of corn root plasma membranes and the inhibition of the Mg+2-ATPase by vanadate were investigated under different ionic conditions. The Mg2+-ATPase was uncompetitively inhibited and a 10-fold variation of the apparent inhibition constant was observed, depending on the addition of K+ and Mg2+. The determination of the zeta potential indicated that a 5-fold decrease of the apparent inhibition constant was due to aspecific electrostatic interactions of the vanadate anion and the negative charge of the membrane. The screening and masking effects of 6 mM free Mg2+ totally abolished electrostatic interactions and allowed the direct determination of the intrinsic vanadate inhibition constant (KIi). On the other hand, a specific, non-electrostatic, effect of K+ caused a 2-fold decrease of the inhibition constant in addition to the electrostatic effect. Finally, the electrostatic analysis indicates that the Mg2+-ATPase is inhibited by the monomeric bivalent anion HVO4(2-). PMID- 2521799 TI - LC2 involvement in the assembly of skeletal myosin filaments. AB - The assembly of LC2-deficient myosin was studied under conditions where control and LC2-reassociated myosin assemble around the native length of about 1.5 microns. The aim of this work was to determine how loss of LC2 affects the assembly characteristics. The findings of this study can be summarized as follows: (a) LC2-deficient myosin assembles into two populations of filaments, one around 0.5 micron in length and the other around 1 micron in length. This suggests that loss of the LC2 perturbs the length-determining mechanism. (b) The population of filaments around 0.5 micron has a diameter around 14 nm and that around 1 micron a diameter around 22 nm. Neither diameter corresponds to the 18 nm obtained with the control and LC2-reassociated myosins, suggesting that the presence of LC2 may have a role in regulating the side-to-side assembly of the myosin rods. (c) Filaments assembled from LC2-deficient myosin tend to aggregate side-by-side, but not those assembled from control and LC2-reassociated myosin. (d) The presence of MgATP has no effect on the length distribution of LC2 deficient myosin filaments in contrast to the sharpening of the distribution observed with control and reassociated myosin. PMID- 2521800 TI - Activation and complexation of protein C and cleavage and decrease of protein S in plasma of patients with intravascular coagulation. AB - Activated protein C (APC) is inhibited by two major plasma inhibitors (PCIs). To find evidence for in vivo complexation of APC, immunoblotting studies were performed on plasmas of 85 patients with suspected disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). Samples from 62 of these patients contained 5% to 35% of protein C antigen in APC:inhibitor complexes, indicating that protein C activation and inhibition had occurred. In 24 normal plasmas, no detectable APC:PCI complexes were observed (less than 5%). Patients with higher levels of complexes had more abnormal coagulation test data for DIC. The major band of APC complexes detected by anti-protein C antibodies did not react with antibodies to the heparin-dependent protein C inhibitor (PCI-1) previously described. Rather, APC was complexed with another recently described plasma protein C inhibitor, PCI 2. Immunoblotting studies for protein S, the cofactor for APC, revealed that the majority of the DIC patient plasmas contained a higher than normal proportion of protein S in cleaved form, suggesting that protein S may have been proteolytically inactivated. Protein S total antigen levels were also found to be low in DIC patients, excluding those with malignancy. These studies support the hypothesis that the protein C pathway is activated during DIC. PMID- 2521801 TI - Partial protein S gene deletion in a family with hereditary thrombophilia. AB - Familial thrombophilia, the hereditary predisposition to venous thromboembolic disease, is associated with a protein S deficiency in approximately 8% of the cases. Laboratory measurements of total protein S antigen in affected families have indicated that heterozygotes, ie, individuals carrying both a normal and a defective protein S gene, are severely at risk of developing venous thrombosis at a young age. The recent isolation of protein S cDNA has enabled us to start a search for genetic defects in the protein S gene of heterozygotes. Using Southern blotting on probands of six unrelated families with hereditary protein S deficiency, one proband was found to have a grossly abnormal gene pattern. The abnormality appears to involve at least the deletion of the middle portion of the protein S coding sequence. Family analysis showed that the defect cosegregates with the protein S deficiency. These data agree with the notion that hereditary thrombophilia associated with protein S deficiency is indeed directly the result of a defect in the protein S gene. PMID- 2521802 TI - The clinical spectrum of heterozygous protein C deficiency in a large New England kindred. AB - A family with a high incidence of venous thromboembolism was investigated. We performed medical evaluations on 184 of the 411 surviving members of the pedigree, which allowed assignment of individuals into positive, equivocal, or negative categories with respect to their clinical histories of thrombosis. Subjects with antigenic levels of protein C less than 66% of a normal plasma pool were classified as having protein C deficiency. Positive thrombotic histories were found in 13 of the 46 family members determined to be protein-C deficient and in only five of their 138 biochemically unaffected relatives. Statistical analysis of the association between thromboembolic disease and protein-C deficiency was strongly positive chi 2 = 24.95, P less than .0001 with n = 184), indicating that heterozygous protein-C deficiency is an important independent risk factor for the development of thrombotic manifestations in this pedigree. However, the absence of thromboembolic manifestations in many of the protein-C deficient family members to date indicates that other, as yet undefined, factors must play an important role in the clinical expression of this disorder. PMID- 2521804 TI - Serum screening for Down's syndrome. PMID- 2521803 TI - Identification of activated T cells and the suppressor/inducer subset in patients suffering from severe aplastic anemia. AB - In patients with severe aplastic anemia (SAA), lymphocyte subpopulations were examined for the presence of HLA-DR and 2H4 (suppressor/inducer subset) antigen expressing cells by flow cytometric analysis. Investigations were performed on peripheral blood lymphocytes before and after therapy with antithymocyte globulin (ATG) and methylprednisolone (MP), as well as on bone-marrow lymphocytes before therapy. Before treatment, only the absolute numbers of CD4+ T cells and the CD4+HLA-DR+/CD8+HLA-DR+ activated T cell ratio were significantly decreased (p less than 0.01 and p less than 0.001, respectively). Following successful ATG/MP treatment, a decrease in the CD4+/CD8+ T cell ratio was found. Regarding the suppressor/inducer subset, only absolute numbers of CD4+/2H4+ cells were somewhat higher in treated patients; the percentages were the same in all groups of patients. Studies performed on bone-marrow lymphocytes showed significantly decreased percentages of CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes, which also express HLA-DR antigen. No significant changes in the distribution of activated T cells following ATG/MP therapy were found, suggesting that these cells play no major role in the pathogenesis of the disease. PMID- 2521805 TI - Body wall ecchymosis. PMID- 2521806 TI - Prostacyclin and noradrenaline in peripheral nerve of chronic experimental diabetes in rats. AB - Noradrenaline levels in the superior cervical ganglion and sciatic nerve were significantly reduced in chronic streptozotocin-induced diabetes in rats. Sciatic nerve sheath in vitro biosynthesis of 6-keto prostaglandin F1 alpha (6KPGF1 alpha; the stable metabolite of prostacyclin) was significantly reduced but not in acute experimental diabetes. Nerves with reduced 6KPGF1 alpha had an excessive response to arachidonic acid stimulation. We suggest that the reduced endogenous biosynthesis of prostacyclin is due to reduced substrate availability, possibly due to the reduced noradrenaline. The implications of these findings on the pathogenesis of diabetic neuropathy are discussed. Neuropathy was found to involve all fibre populations studied (motor, sensory and sympathetic) and progressed with duration of diabetes. PMID- 2521807 TI - Bisphosphonates and extrarenal acid buffering capacity. AB - Both the intracellular compartment and bone mineral are supposed to play a role in acid-base balance by contributing to the extrarenal acid buffering capacity. Bisphosphonates could affect extrarenal acid buffering capacity by interfering with the formation and/or dissolution of bone mineral. In the present study, rats were pretreated with either 1-hydroxyethylidene-1, 1-bisphosphonate (HEBP, 10 mg/kg.day sc), with prevailing inhibitory action on bone mineral formation, or dichloromethylene bisphosphonate (Cl2MBP, 10 mg p/kg.day sc) with prevailing action on bone resorption, or NaCl injections (controls) for 7 days. In intact rats, blood acid-base variables were influenced by neither HEBP, nor Cl2MBP. Two hours after nephrectomy and before acute acid loading, HEBP-but not Cl2MBP pretreated rats displayed a significant increase in both blood HCO3- and PCO2. After HCl infusion (2.5 mEq/kg), the relative decrement in blood HCO3- (difference in blood HCO3- before and after acid loading) was transiently more important in the two bisphosphonate pretreated groups than in controls. After a 24 hour fasting period, nephrectomized animals pretreated with Cl2MBP displayed significantly lower blood HCO3- and pH values than controls or HEBP-pretreated rats. These results suggest that bisphosphonates influence extrarenal buffering capacity according to their prevailing inhibitory action on either bone mineral formation and/or dissolution. These compounds could interfere with the release rate of bone proton buffers. However, in the presence of normal renal function, this effect does not disturb the blood acid-base equilibrium. PMID- 2521809 TI - [AIDS; 2 precise details affecting precautions to take]. PMID- 2521808 TI - The effects of thionapthene-2-carboxylic acid-lysine on the hypercalcemia of malignancy in the rat. AB - Thionapthene-2-carboxylic acid (TNCA) was previously shown to lower serum calcium concentrations in hypercalcemic rats: however, oral administration of TNCA may cause gastric irritation. We have assessed thionapthene-2-carboxylic acid lysine salt (TNLY) for its effects on serum calcium concentration and survival in rats bearing the hypercalcemic Leydig cell tumor. TNLY (0.6-1.8 mmol/kg/day) produced a marked and prolonged dose-related decrease in serum calcium concentration. At the highest dose of 1.8 mmol/kg/day, hypocalcemia occurred. Effects were sustained for 96 hours or longer. In tumor-bearing rats that were not yet hypercalcemic, pretreatment with TNLY (0.9 mmol/kg/day) did not induce hypocalcemia and the onset of hypercalcemia was prevented. Neither TNLY nor dichloromethylene diphosphonate (CL2MDP), a potent inhibitor of bone resorption, significantly prolonged overall survival. We concluded that TNLY is a potent antihypercalcemic agent that warrants further testing for use in the treatment of hypercalcemic disorders. PMID- 2521810 TI - Leucovorin enhancement of the effects of the fluoropyrimidines on thymidylate synthase. AB - Exposure of tumor cells to reduced folates before or with the fluoropyrimidines, 5-fluorouracil or 5-fluoro-2'deoxyuridine, results in a substantial increase in the activity of these drugs. Available evidence suggests that the mechanism of this synergism is a kinetic stabilization of complex formed between thymidylate synthase and fluorodeoxyuridylate that also involves a mole of the cofactor for the thymidylate synthase reaction, 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate. This effect results in an extended time of depletion of thymidine nucleotides with a resultant increased level of cell death. The biochemical aspects of this interaction are discussed and related to the therapeutics of this combination. PMID- 2521811 TI - Extraskeletal Ewing's tumor with translocation t(11;22) in a patient with Down syndrome. AB - A case of a small cell malignant tumor that occurred in the soft tissues of a 16 year-old boy with Down syndrome (47,XY,+21) is reported. The histologic and histochemical patterns were consistent with an extraskeletal Ewing's sarcoma (ES). The cytogenetic analysis of the tumor cells showed a t(11;22)(q24;q21), tetrasomy of chromosome 21, and trisomy of chromosome 14. The observation of a t(11;22) in an ES gives credit to the morphologic evidence in favor of the common (probably neuroectodermal) origin of the skeletal and extraskeletal forms of Ewing's sarcoma (ES). The possible pathogenetic significance of the constitutional trisomy of chromosome 21 in determining the occurrence of this tumor is discussed. PMID- 2521812 TI - 5-Fluoropyrimidine-induced DNA damage in human colon adenocarcinoma and its augmentation by the nucleoside transport inhibitor dipyridamole. AB - 5-Fluorouracil and 5-fluorodeoxyuridine induce DNA lesions via two different mechanisms, one involving and the other not involving the incorporation of drug into DNA. The DNA lesions are detected by lysing cells in dilute alkali and then separating the DNA in agarose gel electrophoresis. We examine here the effect of dipyridamole, a nucleoside transport inhibitor, on the DNA lesions. We find that dipyridamole augments the levels of DNA fragmentation when the lesions are induced by the mechanism not involving the incorporation of drug. In parallel cytotoxicity is increased. PMID- 2521813 TI - Presence of a constitutive paracrine beta-interferon in v-mos-bearing nonmalignant reverted cells. AB - A stable nonmalignant revertant cell line was derived from Moloney murine sarcoma virus-transformed BALB/c cells after long-term cultivation in the presence of murine type I interferon (IFN). These cells gradually established resistance to exogenous IFN and were also seen to contain IFN-dependent proteins. The presence of an endogenous IFN was confirmed by the results of Northern blot analysis and in situ hybridization with an IFN-beta probe, showing that only mRNA specific for IFN-beta- could be found in the uninduced reverted cells. The latter synthesized only a small amount of IFN-beta protein and exhibited few IFN-specific membrane receptors, which bound recombinant IFN-beta with a high affinity. After treatment with IFN antibody, the overexpression of H-2 major histocompatibility antigen genes was significantly down-regulated. These findings strongly suggest the existence in this reverted cell line of a constitutive IFN which, acting through an autocrine and/or paracrine mechanism, might play a role in maintaining the reverted state. PMID- 2521814 TI - Immunomodulatory and therapeutic properties of FK-565 in mice. AB - The heptanoyl tripeptide, FK-565 is a biological response modifier with potent therapeutic properties for the treatment of experimental and spontaneous metastases. Doses of FK-565 greater than 5 mg/kg are required for in vivo augmentation of natural killer cells, macrophages, and for therapeutic activity, presumably because FK-565 is a peptide small molecular mass which is rapidly degraded and excreted. Optimal therapeutic activity is observed at approximately 25-50 mg/kg FK-565, administered i.v. three times per week for 4 weeks. In addition to its therapeutic properties, which were consistently greater than the positive control at optimal doses, FK-565 had significant immunoaugmentary properties for natural killer cells, macrophages, and T cells both in vitro and in vivo, suggesting that its therapeutic activity is due to immune augmentation. PMID- 2521815 TI - Effects of atrial natriuretic peptide on transmural blood flow and reactive hyperemia in the presence of flow-limiting coronary stenosis in the awake dog: evidence for dilation of the intramural vasculature. AB - The effects of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) on transmural myocardial blood flow distribution and the reactive hyperemic response in the presence and absence of flow-limiting coronary stenosis were examined in chronically instrumented conscious dogs. Ten-second coronary occlusion without subsequent flow restriction resulted in marked reactive hyperemic responses (Doppler flow probes), mean flow debt repayment was 481 +/- 55%. When the 10-second coronary occlusions were followed by a 20-second partial restriction that allowed normal preocclusion coronary inflow, the subsequent reactive hyperemia was significantly augmented, mean flow debt repayment was 938 +/- 91% (p less than 0.05). Pretreatment with ANP (3 micrograms/kg) did not alter the flow debt repayment after a 10-second occlusion without restriction (474 +/- 30%, NS) but attenuated the augmentation of reactive hyperemia resulting from the 20-second inflow restriction, flow debt repayment (613 +/- 66%, NS). Regional myocardial blood flow to the ischemic region was measured during restricted inflow after a 10-second coronary occlusion before and after ANP pretreatment. Before ANP, subendocardial flow decreased (0.54 +/- 0.04 ml/min/g) and subepicardial flow significantly increased (1.03 +/- 0.12 ml/min/g) when compared with the nonischemic zone (subendocardial, 1.03 +/- 0.09 ml/min/g; subepicardial, 0.87 +/- 0.09 ml/min/g, p less than 0.05), indicating maldistribution of the restricted inflow. The resultant subendocardial to-subepicardial ratio in the ischemic region was significantly decreased when compared with the nonischemic region (0.56 +/- 0.03 vs. 1.18 +/- 0.04, p less than 0.05).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521816 TI - Contrasting peripheral short-term and long-term effects of converting enzyme inhibition in patients with congestive heart failure. A double-blind, placebo controlled trial. AB - To discover the underlying mechanisms involved in the beneficial long-term effects of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, we investigated the systemic and peripheral effects of short- and long-term ACE inhibition in patients with chronic heart failure. After assessing the short-term effects and dose titration with cilazapril, a new long-acting ACE inhibitor, 21 patients were randomized to receive either placebo or the ACE inhibitor. Seventeen patients completed the 3-month treatment. Central hemodynamic output, femoral blood flow (measured by thermodilution), oxygen saturation, and lactate and norepinephrine levels were determined simultaneously in the femoral vein and radial artery during treatment and after a 3-month rest and during symptom-limited bicycle exercise. Short-term ACE inhibition improved rest and exercise hemodynamic output, but it did not alter peak femoral blood flow, calculated leg oxygen consumption, or systemic oxygen uptake during exercise, despite significant reduction in femoral norepinephrine extraction and arterial angiotensin levels during exercise. In contrast, long-term ACE inhibition further improved exercise cardiac output and increased leg blood flow (from 2.3 to 2.9 l/min, p less than 0.05), leg oxygen consumption (from 277 to 403 ml/min, p less than 0.05), and systemic oxygen uptake (from 1,133 to 1,453 ml/min, p less than 0.05), whereas these variables remained unchanged with placebo treatment (p less than 0.02 between groups). Moreover, a moderate but significant increase in femoral oxygen extraction occurred after long-term therapy (ACE inhibitor: from 76% to 83%, p less than 0.05; placebo: from 75% to 74%, NS; p less than 0.01 between groups). We conclude that long-term ACE inhibition is clinically beneficial in that it improves blood flow to skeletal muscle during exercise over time. The long-term effects of ACE inhibition are, in part, probably related to peripheral (vascular) mechanisms, for example, by reversing the inability of peripheral vessels to dilate and by improving oxygen utilization. PMID- 2521817 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide in a rat model of cardiac failure. Atrial and ventricular mRNA, atrial content, plasma levels, and effect of volume loading. AB - This study examined the relation between synthesis, atrial storage, and plasma levels of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), and it examined plasma ANP levels and hemodynamic output in response to volume expansion in a rat model of myocardial infarction and failure. Arterial ANP concentrations did not correlate linearly with infarct size, but they did show an abrupt increase when infarct size exceeded 30% of the left ventricle, similar to the abrupt increase of left ventricular end-diastolic pressure with infarct size greater than 30%. Consequently, a close relation was found between plasma ANP levels and left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (n = 23, r = 0.89, p less than 0.001). Atrial ANP content per gram of tissue but not ANP content per pair of atria was reduced in rats with large infarcts (greater than 40%, p less than 0.05 vs. control animals). ANP mRNA level per pair of atria (related to total atrial RNA), determined by liquid hybridization (controlled by northern blot analysis), was increased by 38% in infarcted rats (p less than 0.05 vs. controls), but the ratio of atrial ANP mRNA relative to atrial beta-actin mRNA levels was not increased. Right and left ventricular ANP mRNA level increased by 90% and 380%, respectively, far exceeding the concomitant increase in beta-actin mRNA (+26% in the left ventricle). Plasma ANP increased with volume loading in controls and rats with moderate infarcts but not in rats with large infarcts despite a similar increase in right atrial pressure (compared with control animals); thus, the relation of delta ANP/delta right atrial pressure exerted by volume loading decreased in rats with large infarcts. Similarly, the response of cardiac output and renal blood flow (determined by radioactive microspheres) to volume loading was attenuated in rats with large infarcts. Thus, in this model of chronic cardiac failure, the activation of the ANP system is closely coupled with the increase in intracardiac pressures without correlating linearly to the extent of myocardial loss. Second, in severe cardiac failure, additional stimulation such as volume loading may elicit only an attenuated ANP secretion response, for example, due to saturation of the ANP receptor sensing system or to a limited transformation rate of pro-ANP. Third, the increase in atrial ANP synthesis and the increase in atrial ANP gene expression seems limited; however, substantial specific ANP gene expression occurs in the ventricles, which, in turn, may contribute to increased plasma ANP levels in chronic heart failure. PMID- 2521818 TI - Effects of thrombin inhibition on the development of acute platelet-thrombus deposition during angioplasty in pigs. Heparin versus recombinant hirudin, a specific thrombin inhibitor. AB - The effect of recombinant hirudin and the dosage of heparin on acute platelet thrombus deposition during carotid angioplasty in anesthetized pigs was prospectively assessed. Fifty-five animals (mean weight, 33.9 kg) were randomized to one of six heparin dosages: heparin boluses of 35, 50, 100, 150, 200, or 250 units/kg followed by a continuous infusion of 35, 50, 100, 150, 200, or 250 units/kg/hr, respectively. Another five pigs received a bolus of 1 mg/kg hirudin (recombinant desulphatohirudin), a specific thrombin inhibitor, followed by an infusion of 1 mg/kg/hr. Bilateral carotid angioplasty was performed in all pigs 20 minutes after starting the infusion; they were sacrificed 57 +/- 12 minutes after the procedure. Deep medial arterial injury was present in approximately 75% of the dilated segments, and subendothelial injury in the remaining 25%. Mean log of number of platelets and molecules of fibrinogen per centimeter squared of deep injury in segments from all the animals treated with heparin were 4.74 +/- 1.03 and 5.02 +/- 0.64, respectively. A regression analysis showed an inverse correlation of the log of platelet deposition with the heparin group (r = -0.56, p = 0.0001) with administered total units of heparin (r = -0.55, p = 0.0003) and with mean plasma heparin concentration (r = -0.55, p = 0.0004) in deeply injured arteries. Similar inverse relations were obtained for fibrinogen. In contrast, the deposition of platelets and fibrinogen in subendothelial injury was very low and independent of the heparin administered.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521819 TI - Determination of left ventricular mass by magnetic resonance imaging in hearts deformed by acute infarction. AB - Measurement of left ventricular (LV) mass by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is accurate in normal hearts. Because determination of mass by MRI does not require assumptions about ventricular shape, this method may be well suited for evaluating hearts distorted by infarction. To test this hypothesis, gated MRI was performed in 15 dogs before and after acute myocardial infarction. The LV mass of each dog was calculated from five short-axis images acquired at end systole, when shape distortion is greatest, at end diastole, and also from slices at varying phases of the cycle with a multiphase mode that required only one acquisition. Correlation was excellent between actual mass and end-systolic mass before infarction (p less than 0.001, r = 0.98, and SEE = 5.1 g) and after infarction (p less than 0.001, r = 0.97, and SEE = 6.6 g). Likewise, values correlated closely at end diastole before (p less than 0.001, r = 0.96, and SEE = 6.7 g) and after infarction (p less than 0.001, r = 0.94, and SEE = 8.7 g). Surprisingly, measurements of mass by a multiphase mode were also very accurate before (p less than 0.001, r = 0.98, and SEE = 5.1 g) and after (p less than 0.001, r = 0.95, and SEE = 6.49 g) infarction. Therefore, at the same phase and at multiphases of the cardiac cycle, MRI permits accurate determination of LV mass in distorted hearts. PMID- 2521820 TI - Medical treatment of hypercalcemia. AB - Calcium homeostasis and the symptoms, etiology, and general medical management of hypercalcemia are reviewed. Hypercalcemia, an elevation in total serum calcium concentration, may produce neurologic, gastrointestinal, renal, and cardiovascular disturbances; it may also cause calcification in extraskeletal tissue. Hyperparathyroidism and malignancy cause more than 90% of cases of this potentially fatal disorder. When correction of the underlying cause of hypercalcemia is impossible, calcium-lowering therapy is necessary. Acute management of hypercalcemia often involves rehydration, mobilization of the patient, and furosemide-induced diuresis. These measures may be followed by intravenous administration of etidronate, plicamycin, or calcitonin. Agents used in the long-term management of hypercalcemia include oral phosphates, oral etidronate, intermittent intravenous plicamycin, and, in selected patients, corticosteroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents. Investigational calcium-lowering agents include gallium nitrate, ethiofos, dichloromethylene diphosphonate, and aminohydroxyproline diphosphonate. Many agents are available for the treatment of hypercalcemia. Therapy can be individualized by integrating knowledge of the physiologic causes of hypercalcemia, the mechanism of action of calcium-lowering drugs, and the patient's other disease states. Further studies are needed to define the role of investigational calcium-lowering agents. PMID- 2521821 TI - Beta-endorphin inhibits insulin secretion from isolated pancreatic islets. AB - Intravenous administration of small doses of beta-endorphin causes immediate suppression of basal and glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in normal rabbits. The purpose of the present study was to determine if beta-endorphin directly inhibits glucose-stimulated insulin secretion from rabbit pancreatic islets. Islets were isolated from male New Zealand White rabbits and perifused for 1 h with medium containing 100 mg/dl glucose (M100) followed by a 1-h challenge with medium containing 300 mg/dl glucose (M300) with or without beta-endorphin and/or the specific opioid antagonist naloxone. Samples were collected every 5 min during the last 30 min of the baseline perifusion with M100 and during the 1-h challenge with the stimulatory concentration of glucose (M300). Total insulin secretion for each 1-h period was calculated by adding the areas under the curves for twice the 30-min baseline period and for the 1-h challenge period. The mean +/- SE area for the control islets during perifusion with M100 was 5.9 +/- 0.8 microU/islet.h. M300 stimulated a 4.2-fold increase in the amount of insulin secreted (24.5 +/- 3.6 microU/islet.h). The stimulated rate of insulin release was sustained throughout the 1-h test period with M300, averaging 0.42 +/- 0.02 microU insulin/islet.min. beta-Endorphin inhibited glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in a concentration-dependent manner. Maximal suppression of insulin secretion to a level well below the baseline secretion rate was produced by 300 nM beta-endorphin (1.9 +/- 0.3 microU/islet.h). The first 15 min of glucose stimulated insulin secretion was 6 times less sensitive to the inhibitory effect of beta-endorphin than was the next 45 min. The concentrations of beta-endorphin causing 50% inhibition of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (IC50) for the 5- to 15-, 20- to 60-, and 5- to 60-min intervals were 1.96, 0.35, and 0.57 nM, respectively. Naloxone (3 microM) had no effect on glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, but partially antagonized the inhibitory effect of 30 nM beta endorphin (10.2 +/- 2.9 microU/islet.h naloxone plus beta-endorphin vs. 2.6 +/- 1.1 microU/islet.h beta-endorphin; P less than 0.05). These data demonstrate that beta-endorphin, at low concentrations, has a direct inhibitory effect on insulin secretion, and they support the idea that a naloxone-sensitive beta-endorphin binding component is present in pancreatic islets. PMID- 2521823 TI - Cardiac and noncardiac atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) biosynthesis and storage and plasma ANF in the rat model of chronic ventricular dysfunction. AB - To evaluate the role of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) in chronic heart failure (HF), the biosynthesis and storage of ANF in cardiac and noncardiac tissues and the level of plasma ANF were measured in rats exhibiting minimal [2-fold rise in left ventricular end diastolic pressure; myocardial infarct (MI) scar length, 25% left ventricle (LV)] and moderate-severe (3-fold rise in left ventricular end diastolic pressure; decreased contractility (dp/dtmax); MI scar length, 47% LV) chronic HF 30 and 60 days after coronary arterial ligation. In rats with moderate severe HF (30 days post-MI), the cardiac ANF mRNA concentration (determined by dot blot analysis) increased in three heart chambers [LV, 6-fold; left atria (LA), 3-fold; right ventricle (RV), 2-fold], cardiac immunoreactive ANF (IRANF; determined by RIA) concentration increased on the left side (LV, 7-fold; LA, 33%), but was unchanged (RV) or reduced on the right side (right atria, 33%), and plasma IRANF increased 3-fold above sham control values. Excluding the LV (used for MI scar length), the pattern and magnitude of change in ANF mRNA concentration in moderate-severe HF at 60 days were similar to those at 30 days; the cardiac IRANF concentration at this time was the same (LA) or less than (RV, 66%) sham values, and plasma IRANF increased 6-fold above respective sham values. Generally, the changes in the concentrations of cardiac ANF message and peptide and levels of circulating ANF peptide were smaller in rats with minimal HF. The minute quantities of ANF mRNA and IRANF detected in noncardiac tissues (lung, liver, pituitary, aortic arch, brain, kidney, and salivary gland) were unaltered by HF. These findings show that chronic HF, as defined by hemodynamic and histological measurements, specifically and continuously stimulates atrial as well as ventricular ANF biosynthesis; levels of plasma and cardiac ANF are increased early in HF, but with time are subject to modulation. The cardiac ANF system is the prime locus for the effects of HF, as noncardiac ANF biosynthesis and storage are undisturbed by chronic HF. PMID- 2521822 TI - Studies on the mechanisms causing inhibition of insulin secretion in rat pancreatic islets exposed to human interleukin-1 beta indicate a perturbation in the mitochondrial function. AB - This study aimed at a more detailed characterization of the mechanisms by which interleukin 1 (IL-1) inhibits insulin secretion. For this purpose, isolated rat pancreatic islets were kept in tissue culture for 5 days in medium RPMI 1640 plus 10% calf serum. The islets were subsequently transferred to the same culture medium containing various test substances plus 1% human serum with or without 25 U/ml human recombinant IL-1 beta. After a culture period of 48 h the islet structure was examined in the electron microscope and the islet function studied in short term incubations in the absence of IL-1. Islets exposed to IL-1 showed ultrastructural signs of degeneration in 10-20% of the B cells while such changes were not found in other types of islet cells. An increased number of secondary lysosomes and occasional myelin figures were observed in the B cells exposed to IL-1. These ultrastructural alterations were, however, reversed in islets cultured in cytokine-free medium for 6 days after the IL-1 treatment. In islets cultured in the presence of 11.1 mM glucose only, or 11.1 mM glucose plus 10 mM nicotinamide, 61 mM dimethyl area, 2 micrograms/ml indomethacin, 10 microM 4 bromophenacyl bromide or 10 microM nordihydroguaiaretic acid, 10 microM phenantroline, and 0.1 or 1.0 microgram/ml cyclosporin A, IL-1 reduced the insulin release by 64-85%. Culture at 5.6 mM glucose did not modify the IL-1 induced inhibition of insulin release, whereas a significant protective effect was observed at 28 or 56 mM glucose. The DNA content in IL-1-exposed islets cultured at 11.1 mM glucose was decreased by about 20% but not in islets cultured at other glucose concentrations. The D-[5-3H]glucose utilization at 16.7 mM glucose was unaffected by IL-1, whereas the oxidation of D-[6-14C]glucose was reduced by 50%. The present results suggest that IL-1-induced inhibition of insulin secretion is related to a disturbed mitochondrial function. This effect is not counteracted by a poly(ADP-ribose) synthetase inhibitor, a hydroxyl radical scavenger, an iron chelator, a T lymphocyte-specific immunosuppressive drug, or inhibitors of phospholipase A2 or inhibitors of prostaglandin and leukotriene synthesis. Thus, IL-1-induced inhibition of insulin secretion seems not to be mediated by the same mechanisms as those causing alloxan- or streptozotocin-induced damage of B cells. Furthermore, the action of IL-1 does not appear to be mediated via arachidonic acid metabolism. Glucose affords some protection, probably by enhancing the B cell mitochondrial function.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2521825 TI - Chloroplast ATP synthase contains one single copy of subunit delta that is indispensable for photophosphorylation. AB - F0F1 ATP synthases synthesize ATP in their F1 portion at the expense of free energy supplied by proton flow which enters the enzyme through their channel portion F0. The smaller subunits of F1, especially subunit delta, may act as energy transducers between these rather distant functional units. We have previously shown that chloroplast delta, when added to thylakoids partially depleted of the coupling factor CF1, can reconstitute photophosphorylation by inhibiting proton leakage through exposed coupling factor CF0. In view of controversies in the literature, we reinvestigated two further aspects related to subunit delta, namely (a) its stoichiometry in CF0CF1 and (b) whether or not delta is required for photophosphorylation. By rocket immunoelectrophoresis of thylakoid membranes and calibration against purified delta, we confirmed a stoichiometry of one delta per CF0CF1. In CF1-depleted thylakoids photophosphorylation could be reconstituted not only by adding CF1 and subunit delta but, surprisingly, also by CF1 (-delta). We found that the latter was attributable to a contamination of CF1 (-delta) preparations with integral CF1. To lesser extent CF1 (-delta) acted by complementary rebinding to CF0 channels that were closed because they contained delta [CF0(+delta)]. This added catalytic capacity to proton-tight thylakoid vesicles. The ability of subunit delta to control proton flow through CF0 and the absolute requirement for delta in restoration of photophosphorylation suggest an essential role of this small subunit at the interface between the large portions of ATP synthase: delta may be part of the coupling site between electrochemical, conformational and chemical events in this enzyme. PMID- 2521824 TI - Androgens directly stimulate proliferation of bone cells in vitro. AB - This report describes the first observation of a direct mitogenic effect of androgens on isolated osteoblastic cells in serum-free culture. [3H]thymidine incorporation into DNA and cell counts were used as measures of cell proliferation. The percentage of cells that stained for alkaline phosphatase was used as a measure of differentiation. Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) enhanced mouse osteoblastic cell proliferation in a dose dependent manner over a wide range of doses (10(-8) to 10(-11) molar), and was maximally active at 10(-9) M. DHT also stimulated proliferation in human osteoblast cell cultures and in cultures of the human osteosarcoma cell line, TE89. Testosterone, fluoxymesterone (a synthetic androgenic steroid) and methenolone (an anabolic steroid) were also mitogenic in the mouse bone cell system. The mitogenic effect of DHT on bone cells was inhibited by antiandrogens (hydroxyflutamide and cyproterone acetate) which compete for binding to the androgen receptor. In addition to effects on cell proliferation, DHT increased the percentage of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) positive cells in all three bone cell systems tested, and this effect was inhibited by antiandrogens. We conclude that androgens can stimulate human and murine osteoblastic cell proliferation in vitro, and induce expression of the osteoblast-line differentiation marker ALP, presumably by an androgen receptor mediated mechanism. PMID- 2521827 TI - The predicted secondary structures of the nucleotide-binding sites of six cation transporting ATPases lead to a probable tertiary fold. AB - Six cation-dependent transporting ATPases have homologous sequences in the region asigned by chemical labelling to nucleotide binding. Comparison of the most highly conserved segments with other nucleotide-binding domains showed that the sequences were consistent with a mononucleotide-binding fold and enabled a number of likely folding topologies to be limited to two or three alternatives. One of these possible folds was topologically equivalent to adenylate kinase; this was taken as a model in which the significance of conserved amino acids was investigated. In this model conserved amino acids were grouped around a postulated ATP-binding cleft, satisfactorily accounting for their degree of conservation. PMID- 2521826 TI - A comparison of an ATPase from the archaebacterium Halobacterium saccharovorum with the F1 moiety from the Escherichia coli ATP synthase. AB - A purified ATPase associated with membranes from Halobacterium saccharovorum was compared with the F1 moiety from the Escherichia coli ATP synthase. The halobacterial enzyme was composed of two major (I and II) and two minor subunits (III and IV), whose molecular masses were 87 kDa, 60 kDa, 29 kDa and 20 kDa, respectively. The isoelectric points of these subunits ranged from 4.1 to 4.8, which in the case of the subunits I and II was consistent with the presence of an excess of acidic amino acids (20-22 mol/100 mol). Peptide mapping of subunits I and II denatured with sodium dodecyl sulfate showed no relationship between the primary structures of the individual halobacterial subunits or similarities to the subunits of the F1 ATPase from E. coli. Trypsin inactivation of the halobacterial ATPase was accompanied by the partial degradation of the major subunits. This observation, taken in conjunction with molecular masses of the subunits and the native enzyme, was consistent with the previously proposed stoichiometry of 2:2:1:1. These results suggest that H. saccharovorum, and possibly, halobacteria in general, possess an ATPase which is unlike the ubiquitous F0F1 ATP synthase. PMID- 2521828 TI - Covalent binding of human thrombin to a human endothelial cell-associated protein. AB - Binding of 125I-thrombin to endothelial cells derived from human umbilical vein was studied in tissue culture. Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and autoradiography revealed covalent binding of thrombin in a 72-kDa complex. This binding is specific and requires the catalytically active site of the enzyme. Formation of the complex could be detected as early as 3 min after addition of thrombin or with a thrombin concentration as low as 0.5 nM. This irreversible binding exhibits thrombin dose dependence and reaches maximum levels at a concentration of 50 nM (10 fmol/10(5) cells). Some characteristics of the 72-kDa complex were compared to those of the complexes formed between thrombin and protease nexin originating from fibroblasts or platelets: (i) its electrophoretic mobility on SDS-PAGE is identical to that of the thrombin-platelet protease nexin complex, (ii) heparin prevents the appearance of the complex on the cell surface, (iii) plasmin in a 100-fold molar excess prevents the covalent linkage of thrombin, suggesting that the protease specificity of the endothelial component involved in the complex might not be restricted to thrombin. Yet no release, nor any secretion of the endothelial protein, could be detected. These results indicate that active thrombin binds covalently to a specific endothelial protein that is in several respects similar to fibroblast or platelet protease nexin and provides a thrombin binding site distinct from thrombomodulin and glycosaminoglycans. PMID- 2521829 TI - Neuraminidase pretreatment of donor lymphocytes and graft-versus-host disease. AB - Treatment of murine CBA splenocytes with Vibrio cholerae neuraminidase (VCN) prior to engraftment into cyclophosphamide (CY) immunosuppressed Balb/c x CBA mice reduced the incidence of acute lethal graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) and delayed mortality in the later phase of the disease. In the same model, pretreatment of donor splenocytes with VCN also reduced splenomegaly. Engraftment of F1 mice with CBA cells was clearly demonstrated at day 30 after infusion. Treatment of spleen cells with VCN did not compromise their ability to protect mice against irradiation-induced lethality. Furthermore, enzyme treatment was found to have no adverse effects on helper (TH-) and B-cell activity or on suppressor (TS-)cell function in adoptive transfer assays. Therefore, whereas the mechanism of the effect of the VCN preparation remains to be established, it is clear that the treatment provides protection against GvHD. PMID- 2521830 TI - Evidence for the presence of two distinct sites of sucrose hydrolysis and glucosyl transfer activities on 1,3-alpha-D-glucan synthase of Streptococcus mutans. AB - 1,3-alpha-D-Glucan synthase of Streptococcus mutans catalyzes both the hydrolysis of sucrose to glucose and fructose, and the glucosyl transfer to glucosyl polymers to yield water-insoluble glucan. The enzyme catalyzes only sucrose hydrolysis, however, in the absence of 1,6-alpha-D-glucan as an acceptor. In the present study, we found that glucosyl transfer activity was completely inhibited by the antiserum against isolated 1,3-alpha-D-glucan synthase but that the sucrose hydrolysis activity was not. The antiserum did not impair the binding of the enzyme to the acceptor. These findings indicate that sucrose hydrolysis and glucosyl transfer occur at two distinct sites on the enzyme. PMID- 2521832 TI - Factors affecting plasma levels of ketoconazole during long-term treatment. AB - In the present study we intended to obtain information on the evolution of near peak blood levels during long-term treatment. 56 patients with an indication for systemic treatment of nail or skin mycoses obtained a daily dose of 200 mg ketoconazole. They were periodically checked for blood level of ketoconazole, clinical and mycological status and enzyme values. The average blood level was 2.8 +/- 1.3 micrograms/ml plasma. The blood level was not influenced by the length of the treatment. A correlation between blood level and weight or sex was not observed, whereas a significant negative correlation occurred between blood level and age (age group 15-30 years: 3.9 +/- 1.3 micrograms/ml; 46-60 years: 2.4 +/- 0.9 micrograms/ml). PMID- 2521831 TI - Differential binding of IL-1 alpha and IL-1 beta to receptors on B and T cells. AB - The interleukin 1 receptors (IL-1R) on the human B lymphoma RAJI and on the murine thymoma EL4-6.1 have been characterized. Equilibrium binding analysis using both 125I-labeled IL-1 alpha and IL-1 beta showed that RAJI cells have a higher number of binding sites/cell for IL-1 beta (2400, Kd 2.2 nM) than for IL-1 alpha (316, Kd 0.13 nM). On the other hand, EL4-6.1 cells have more receptors/cell for IL-1 alpha (22 656, Kd 1 nM) than for IL-1 beta (2988, Kd 0.36 nM). Dexamethasone (DXM) induced on RAJI cells a time-dependent increase in binding sites for both IL-1 beta and IL-1 alpha without affecting their binding affinities. However, while receptor-bound 125I-IL-1 alpha was displaced with equal efficiency by both IL-1 forms, only unlabeled IL-1 beta could effectively displace 125I-IL-1 beta. Cross-linking experiments indicated that RAJI cells have a predominant IL-1R of about 68 kDa, while EL4-6.1 cells have an IL-1-binding polypeptide of 80 kDa. These results suggest that B and T cells possess structurally different IL-1R with distinct binding properties for IL-1 alpha and IL-1 beta. PMID- 2521833 TI - Lack of effect of acitretin on the hypothrombinemic action of phenprocoumon in healthy volunteers. AB - A possible influence of the aromatic retinoid acitretin on the hypothrombinemic action of phenprocoumon was investigated in 10 healthy male volunteers, 22-33 years of age. In a run-in period of 17 days the prothrombin complex activity (Quick) of the subjects was adjusted by individual doses of phenprocoumon (range 1.5-3 mg/day) to a therapeutic level of around 20% (INR = 3.6). Afterwards the dosage regimens were kept unchanged until day 40 when 60 mg oral vitamin K1 were administered. From day 18 to day 28 once daily doses of 50 mg acitretin were applied concurrently with phenprocoumon. The mean (+/- SD) prothrombin complex activity increased slightly and steadily from 19 +/- 1% on day 10 over 22 +/- 1% on day 18 to 24 +/- 4% on day 28 and reached 27 +/- 4% on day 38 (the corresponding INRs were 3.30, 2.91, 2.71 and 2.46 respectively). There were, however, no relevant changes of the Quick values in any subject which could be attributed to acitretin. It can be concluded that, under the present experimental conditions, acitretin did not affect significantly the anticoagulant action of phenprocoumon. PMID- 2521834 TI - Specific inhibitors of endopeptidase 24.11 inhibit the metabolism of atrial natriuretic peptides in vitro and in vivo. AB - Atrial natriuretic peptides (ANPs) are degraded rapidly by renal brush border membranes in vitro. Here, we report that thiorphan, a specific inhibitor of endopeptidase 24.11, afforded almost complete protection against inactivation of ANPs by a renal brush border membrane preparation. The diastereoisomers of [3-(N hydroxy)carboxamido-2-benzylpropanoyl]-L-alanine (HCBA) are potent inhibitors of endopeptidase 24.11 and were also tested for their abilities to inhibit ANP-(103 126) degradation. The (S,S)-diastereoisomer was more effective than the (R,S) diastereoisomer (kelatorphan), but both were less potent than thiorphan. To determine if endopeptidase inhibitors could decrease ANP metabolism in in vivo, thiorphan and (S,S)-HCBA were given to rats with or without a continuous infusion of ANP-(103-126). Both inhibitors induced rapid increases in plasma ANP concentration in rats administered exogenous ANP-(103-126), but had no effect on endogenous ANP levels. Thus, specific inhibitors of endopeptidase 24.11 decrease the degradation of ANPs in vitro, and are effective in reducing the metabolism of ANP-(103-126) in vivo. PMID- 2521836 TI - Oxygen free-radical scavengers and immune destruction of murine islets in allograft rejection and multiple low-dose streptozocin-induced insulitis. AB - We examined the effects of desferrioxamine (DFX), a potent inhibitor of the formation of oxygen-derived hydroxyl radicals, and nicotinamide (NIC), a poly(ADP ribose) synthetase inhibitor and a weak free-radical scavenger, on two models of immune destruction of murine islets [i.e., allograft rejection and multiple low dose streptozocin (STZ)-induced insulitis]. Freshly isolated or low-temperature cultured BALB/cJ islets were transplanted beneath the kidney capsules of C57BL/6J recipients. The recipients were treated with NIC alone (500 mg.kg-1.day-1), DFX alone (4.2 mg/day x 14 days), or NIC + DFX. Only recipients treated with NIC + DFX, receiving cultured islets, showed a mean graft survival time significantly longer than control mice receiving freshly isolated or cultured islets. Control CD-1 mice treated with multiple low doses of STZ developed insulitis and diabetes. Treatment with NIC alone, DFX alone, or NIC + DFX decreased the severity of hyperglycemia relative to the controls. Treatment with DFX alone was more effective than NIC alone or NIC + DFX. Only the group treated with DFX alone had a lower incidence of diabetes (mean plasma glucose level greater than 200 mg/dl) than the controls after 4 wk. Histologically, islets from control mice showed severe insulitis, islet destruction, and absence of stainable insulin, whereas islets from DFX-treated mice showed only mild peri-insulitis and a relative preservation of beta-cell granulation. Our study showed that NIC and DFX partially protect islets from immune destruction in allograft rejection and in low-dose STZ-induced insulitis. Apparently, hydroxyl radicals play important roles in both of these models. PMID- 2521835 TI - A neuroectoderm-associated ganglioside participates in fibronectin receptor mediated adhesion of germinal cells to fibronectin. AB - Previous studies with a rat neural cell line have shown that the D1.1 ganglioside, an O-acetylated derivative of GD3, is involved in cellular adhesion to fibronectin. In vivo, D1.1 is present on germinal cells of the developing rat central nervous system, but not on postmitotic cells that migrate away from the germinal zones. These observations suggest that D1.1 could participate in adhesive interactions with germinal zones and that the loss of D1.1 could be involved in the decision to being migration. In support of this hypothesis, immunofluorescence histochemistry shows that both fibronectin and fibronectin receptor are colocalized with D1.1 in the ventricular zones of the embryonic rat brain and in the external granule cell layer of the postnatal cerebellum. Dishes coated with monoclonal antibody against D1.1 were used to isolate D1.1-positive germinal cells from Embryonic Day 14 cerebrum and from Postnatal Day 6 cerebellum. These cells are able to adhere to fibronectin-coated dishes by a mechanism that is inhibitable by a synthetic hexapeptide containing the arg-gly asp cell recognition sequence of fibronectin. Adhesion is also partially inhibited by antibody against fibronectin receptor and is slowed by anti-D1.1 antibody, implicating both the receptor and the ganglioside in the adhesion process. During 3 days in culture these D1.1-positive, fibronectin receptor positive cells exhibit a neuronal phenotype, as judged by morphology and staining with tetanus toxin. This further confirms the neuroepithelial origin of the cells. The cells do not synthesize detectable amounts of fibronectin, thus leaving unidentified the source of the fibronectin seen in the germinal zones in tissue sections. Immunoprecipitation experiments show that the fibronectin receptors present on these cells are heterodimers. Under nonreducing conditions, the immunoprecipitates contain an alpha-subunit of 150-160 kDa and a beta-subunit of 115-125 kDa. PMID- 2521837 TI - [Endoscopic laser incision of the polycystic ovary]. AB - Eight patients with a polycystic ovarial syndrome diagnosed endoscopically and endocrinologically were treated by laser incision of the ovaries via laparoscopy. The eight patients were preoperatively Clomiphen-refractory. After the incision, in every case spontaneous menstrual bleeding could be observed. Also in five women ovulation occurred, whilst in three cases, ovulation induction by Clomiphen was carried out successfully. Nevertheless these three patients were immediately after Clomiphen-refractory again. The observation period of the other five patients varied between 4 and 6 months. During this time an ovulation could be confirmed in all of them using basal temperature measurements. Pregnancy has not occurred in any to the present date. PMID- 2521838 TI - Phage lambda Cro protein and cI repressor use two different patterns of specific protein-DNA interactions to achieve sequence specificity in vivo. AB - By assaying the binding of wild-type Cro to a set of 40 mutant lambda operators in vivo, we have determined that the 14 outermost base pairs of the 17 base pair, consensus lambda operator are critical for Cro binding. Cro protein recognizes 4 base pairs in a lambda operator half-site in different ways than cI repressor. The sequence determinants of Cro binding at these critical positions in vivo are nearly perfectly consistent with the model proposed by W. F. ANDERSON, D. H. OHLENDORF, Y. TAKEDA and B. W. MATTHEWS and modified by Y. TAKEDA, A. SARAI and V. M. RIVERA for the specific interactions between Cro and its operator, and explain the relative order of affinities of the six natural lambda operators for Cro. Our data call into question the idea that lambda repressor and Cro protein recognize the consensus lambda operator by nearly identical patterns of specific interactions. PMID- 2521840 TI - Genetic linkage among cloned genes of Streptococcus mutans. AB - Mapping vectors containing antibiotic resistance markers inserted adjacent to or within different cloned genes from Streptococcus mutans were used to determine the relative positions of these genes on the chromosome. The gtfA, ftf, and scrB genes were inserted into streptococcal mapping vector pVA891 adjacent to an Emr gene, whereas the Emr marker was inserted directly into the gtfB gene. These chimeric plasmids were transformed into S. mutans GS-5, selecting for Emr transformants. To determine the positions of the cloned genes relative to each other, it was necessary to construct plasmids labeled with a different antibiotic resistance marker. Thus, a Tetr gene was inserted adjacent to gtfB in the appropriate mapping vector and within the ftf and scrB genes with a mini-Mu transposon (Mu dT). The chimeric plasmids were transformed into the appropriate Emr recipients, and the DNA from the resulting Emr Tetr transformants was used in linkage studies. Based on the cotransfer data, gtfB was not closely linked to gtfA, ftf, or scrB. However, gtfA cotransferred with ftf and scrB at frequencies of approximately 96 and 80%, respectively. The percent cotransfer of ftf and scrB was approximately 92. These data indicate that the three genes are clustered on the GS-5 chromosome, with ftf located between gtfA and scrB. Little, if any, linkage was observed between these genes and a variety of other random markers. PMID- 2521839 TI - Definition of cis-acting elements regulating expression of the Drosophila melanogaster ninaE opsin gene by oligonucleotide-directed mutagenesis. AB - We have analyzed the cis-acting regulatory sequences of the Rh1 (ninaE) gene in Drosophila melanogaster by P-element-mediated germline transformation of indicator genes transcribed from mutant ninaE promoter sequences. We have previously shown that a 200-bp region extending from -120 to +67 relative to the transcription start site is sufficient to obtain eye-specific expression from the ninaE promoter. In the present study, 22 different 4-13-bp sequences in the 120/+67 promoter region were altered by oligonucleotide-directed mutagenesis. Several of these sequences were found to be required for proper promoter function; two of these are conserved in the promoter of the homologous gene isolated from the related species Drosophila virilis. Alteration of a conserved 9 bp sequence results in aberrant, low level expression in the body. Alteration of a separate 11-bp sequence, found in the promoter regions of several photoreceptor specific genes of Drosophila, results in an approximately 15-fold reduction in promoter efficiency but without apparent alteration of tissue-specificity. A protein factor capable of interacting with this 11-bp sequence has been detected by DNaseI footprinting in embryonic nuclear extracts. Finally, we have further characterized two separable enhancer sequences previously shown to be required for normal levels of expression from this promoter. PMID- 2521841 TI - Reduced suppressor cell response to Mycobacterium leprae in lepromatous leprosy. AB - We have previously shown that concanavalin A (ConA) induction of suppressor cell activity is impaired in patients with lepromatous leprosy (LL). In this study, we demonstrated that the proportion of cells bearing the Leu8 antigen (associated with suppressor-inducer cells) is low in LL patients and tends to normalize during the erythema nodosum leprosum (ENL) episode. Antigen-induced suppressor cell function was evaluated by a two-stage assay. In the first stage, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were cultured for 5 days either in the presence of gamma-irradiated Mycobacterium leprae or in tissue culture medium as a control. In the second stage, mitomycin C-treated suppressor or control cells were added to phytohemagglutinin (PHA)- or ConA-stimulated autologous PBMC. The results indicate that the ability of M. leprae to induce suppressor activity was lower in LL patients than in patients with tuberculoid (TT) and intermediate clinical (BB, BL, BT) forms and Mycobacterium bovis BCG-immunized normal controls. In ENL patients, the percent suppression was between that of TT and normal individuals. M. leprae-induced suppression was more effective on ConA- than on PHA-triggered T cell proliferation in all groups. In contrast, normal PBMC cultured for 5 days in RPMI 1640 medium (N-C) and cells from patients with leprosy (TT-C and LL-C) had effects of their own on PHA- or ConA-induced proliferation. LL-C depressed the response to ConA and enhanced PHA-induced proliferation of autologous cells. Conversely, TT-C reduced PHA-induced proliferation and increased the ConA response. Suppression of proliferation could not be overcome with exogenous interleukin-2 and was not related to the induction of the Tac antigen. The abilities of LL, TT, ENL, and normal cells to proliferate upon PHA or ConA stimulus were similar, indicating that the defect in the generation of in vitro suppression by M. leprae in LL patients occurred during the induction period (step 1 of assay). PMID- 2521842 TI - Sequential therapy with recombinant interferons gamma and alpha in patients with unfavorable prognosis of chronic myelocytic leukemia: clinical responsiveness to recombinant IFN-alpha correlates with the degree of receptor down-regulation. AB - Natural and recombinant interferons (IFNs) have already demonstrated therapeutic efficacy, including cytogenetic remissions, in patients with chronic myelocytic leukemia (CML). We investigated at the level of ligand-receptor interaction the question whether heterogeneity of receptor number or affinity might contribute to primary or secondary treatment failures in CML. We therefore analyzed IFN-gamma and IFN-alpha receptor expression and regulation during treatment with recombinant IFN-gamma and IFN-alpha in 15 patients with advanced CML. We found no difference in number or affinity of constitutively expressed IFN-gamma receptors (mean 1,100) and, on average, a 30% reduction of IFN-alpha receptors (mean 750) on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMNC) of patients with chronic or accelerated CML as compared to mature granulocytes and/or bone marrow cells of healthy controls, which express on average 1,050 and 1,100 IFN-gamma and IFN alpha receptors, respectively. While IFN-gamma receptor expression on PBMNC is not influenced upon treatment with rIFN-gamma, there is a substantial downregulation of IFN-alpha receptors in the course of rIFN-alpha therapy. Our data also show a differential pattern of receptor downregulation between patients achieving complete hematologic remission (CHR) (4 out of 12) compared with patients with partial hematologic remission (PHR) and non-responders. We conclude that differences in IFN receptor number cannot explain primary or secondary treatment failures. However, the differential ligand induced downregulation of IFN-alpha receptors in patients achieving CHR compared to those with PHR or non responders suggest a prospective value of IFN-alpha receptor determination. PMID- 2521844 TI - Contact sensitivity to topical medicaments. AB - Of patients patch tested at a contact dermatitis clinic between 1985 and 1986, 22.5% (379/1685) had medicament sensitivity. The prevalence in men was 22.8% (193/847) and in women, 22.1% (186/838) (difference not significant). The rate appears to increase with age, 17.9% (216/1205) for patients less than 40 years old and 34.0% (163/480) for patients over 39 years old (difference, p less than 0.001). The differences in prevalence between Chinese (22.8%), Malay (21.3%), Indians (20.4%), and others (33.3%) were not statistically significant. Common sensitizers included neomycin (7.8%), proflavine (7.1%), clioquinol (4.3%), colophony (3.3%), and wool alcohol (2.7%). Proflavine sensitivity was significantly more common in men (9.9%) than women (4.2%) (p less than 0.001). Most dermatitis occurs on the limbs (upper limbs, 44.3%; lower limbs, 43.0%). Facial dermatitis was more common in women (37.4%) than men (19.2%) (difference not significant). PMID- 2521843 TI - Induction of tumor-cell lysis by bi-specific monoclonal antibodies recognizing renal-cell carcinoma and CD3 antigen. AB - Bi-specific monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) were developed by somatic hybridization of 2 mouse hybridomas, one producing MAb against the G250 renal-cell carcinoma (RCC)-associated antigen and the other against the T-cell antigen CD3 (OKT3). The dual specificity of the hybrid MAb produced by these so-called quadromas was analyzed by immunohistochemistry on tissue sections and by cytotoxicity assays with relevant target and effector cells. The bi-specific MAb could induce TCR alpha beta/CD3+ and TCR gamma delta/CD3+ cloned lymphocytes to kill RCC cells. A noteworthy finding was that the TCR alpha beta and gamma delta lymphocyte clones showed different triggering abilities. The specificity of target-cell lysis by the cytotoxic T cells (CTL) was dictated by the specificity of the G250 MAb. Control bi-specific MAb, recognizing a cell-surface structure not involved in T cell activation, did not induce lysis. Several IgG subclass switch variants of the G250 hybridoma, i.e., IgG1, 2a, 2b and IgE, were used for somatic hybridization with the OKT3 hybridoma (IgG2a). Except for IgE, all IgG subclass combinations could equally induce cytolysis. Induction of cytolysis was inhibited only by excess OKT3 MAb. Comparison of 2 bi-specific MAb preparations of the same combination (IgG2a/1), produced by 2 quadromas derived from the same parental hybridomas after identical purification procedures, produced different amounts of bispecific MAb. PMID- 2521845 TI - Floxuridine-associated sclerosing cholangitis. A dog model. AB - The authors developed a dog model for the biliary sclerosis that occurs as a severe complication of protracted hepatic arterial floxuridine (FUDR) infusions (using implanted drug delivery systems) in patients with hepatic cancers. Infusaid pumps attached to hepatic arterial catheters were used for protracted infusions in ten mixed breed hounds. To allow repeated cholangiograms, the animals' gallbladders were removed and catheters connected to subcutaneous infusion ports were positioned in the cystic ducts. Five treated dogs received FUDR 0.3 mg/kg/day through the pump for a total of 30 days. Five control dogs received only saline through the pump. Cholangiograms were obtained before and after treatment in all animals. In the control group, serum liver function test results and the cholangiographic appearance of the biliary tree remained within normal limits. By contrast, in the FUDR-treated group, serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase and alkaline phosphatase progressively rose above normal, starting 2 3 weeks into FUDR infusion, followed by hyperbilirubinemia (7-28 mg/dl peak levels) beginning 4 to 6 weeks after initiation of the drug infusion. Cholangiograms revealed focal strictures involving the central bile ducts (five dogs) and diffuse attenuation of the intrahepatic ducts (four dogs). Thus, the liver function abnormalities and the cholangiographic findings in this dog model mimic the hepatobiliary toxicity in sensitive patients receiving similar treatment. PMID- 2521846 TI - Abdominal muscle use during breathing in unanesthetized dogs. AB - The pattern of abdominal muscle use during breathing in unanesthetized dogs is unknown. Therefore, we have recorded the electromyograms of the rectus abdominis, external oblique, and transversus abdominis in eight conscious animals breathing quietly in the sitting, standing, and prone postures. During quiet breathing in the sitting posture, all animals invariably had a large amount of phasic expiratory activity in the transversus abdominis. In contrast, only four animals showed some expiratory activity in the external oblique, and only one animal had expiratory activity in the rectus abdominis. A similar pattern was observed when the animals were standing or lying prone, although the amount of expiratory activity was less in this posture. Bilateral cervical vagotomy in four animals did not affect the degree of transversus abdominis expiratory activation or the influence of posture. We conclude that in conscious dogs 1) the abdominal muscles play an important role during breathing and make spontaneous quiet expiration a very active process, 2) the transversus abdominis is the primary respiratory muscle of the abdomen, and 3) unlike in anesthetized animals, extrapulmonary receptors play a major role in promoting abdominal expiratory contraction. PMID- 2521848 TI - Normal and abnormal puberty. PMID- 2521849 TI - Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in Rotter's nodes: a case report. PMID- 2521847 TI - Differential timing of respiratory muscles in response to chemical stimuli in awake dogs. AB - We assessed changes in respiratory muscle timing in response to hyperpnea and shortened inspiratory and expiratory times caused by chemoreceptor stimuli in six awake dogs. Durations of postinspiratory inspiratory activity of costal and crural diaphragm (PIIA), the delay in diaphragm electromyogram (EMG) after the initiation of inspiratory airflow, postexpiratory expiratory activity of the transversus abdominis (PEEA), and the delay of abdominal expiratory muscle activity after the initiation of expiratory airflow were measured. In control, four out of six dogs showed PIIA [8-10% of expiratory time (TE)]; all showed delay of diaphragm [19% of inspiratory time (TI)], delay of abdominal muscle activation (21% of TE), and PEEA (24% of TI). Hypercapnia decreased PIIA (4-9% of TE), maintained diaphragm delay at near control values (23% of TI), increased PEEA (36% of TI), eliminated delay of abdominal muscle activation (4% of TE), and decreased end-expiratory lung volume (EELV). Hypocapnic hypoxia increased PIIA (24-25% of TE), eliminated diaphragm delay (3% of TI), eliminated PEEA (3% of TI), reduced delay of abdominal muscle activation (14% of TE), and increased EELV. Most of these effects of hypoxic hypocapnia vs. hypercapnia on the within breath EMG timing parameters corresponded to differences in the magnitude of expiratory muscle activation. These changes exerted significant influences on flow rates and EELV. PMID- 2521850 TI - Thrombolytic therapy of acute myocardial infarction in a community hospital. PMID- 2521852 TI - Re: Schaefer v. AMS (the final chapter). PMID- 2521851 TI - AIDS in Arkansas 1988. PMID- 2521853 TI - Arkansas and the Southern Surgical Association. PMID- 2521854 TI - Phosphofructokinase isozyme expression during myoblast differentiation. AB - Isozyme expression of phosphofructokinase (PFK), the key regulatory enzyme for glycolysis, was studied during differentiation of mouse C2 myoblasts to myotubes. The total PFK activity increased 20-fold during in vitro myogenesis. The rate of synthesis, relative to the rate of total protein synthesis, measured by pulse labeling and immunoprecipitation was lowest for muscle PFK (PFK-A), 0.008% in myoblasts, while those for liver (PFK-B) and brain (PFK-C) PFK were 0.017 and 0.014%, respectively. The relative rate of PFK-A synthesis increased sharply (5 fold) at an initial period of differentiation (8 h) and reached maximum of 10 fold at 48 h, to make PFK-A the major isoform synthesized in myotubes. The relative rates of synthesis for both PFK-B and PFK-C did not change drastically, decreasing slightly at 8 h, but were restored to 1.5-2-fold of myoblasts. cDNA sequences coding for mouse muscle PFK were cloned and used along with those for mouse liver PFK, which we have previously cloned, to measure by Northern blot analysis under highly stringent conditions the steady-state mRNA concentrations for muscle and liver PFK during C2 differentiation. The hybridizable mRNA level for PFK-A increased gradually, reaching 13-fold at 48 h when 80% of cells was fused to myotubes. The PFK-A mRNA level at 96 h was 90-fold of that for myoblasts. In contrast, the mRNA level for PFK-B increased slightly during differentiation, showing a maximum of 4-fold at 96 h. These results indicate isozyme-specific control of muscle PFK gene expression during C2 myoblast differentiation. PMID- 2521855 TI - Nucleotide sequence of the Neurospora crassa trp-3 gene encoding tryptophan synthetase and comparison of the trp-3 polypeptide with its homologs in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Escherichia coli. AB - The complete nucleotide sequence of the Neurospora crassa trp-3 gene-encoding tryptophan synthetase has been determined; we present an analysis of its structure. A comparison of the deduced amino acid sequence of the trp-3 polypeptide with its homologs in Saccharomyces cerevisiae (encoded by the TRP5 gene) and Escherichia coli (encoded by the trpA and trpB genes) shows that the A and B domains (amino acid segments homologous to the trpA and trpB polypeptides, respectively) of the N. crassa and yeast polypeptides are in the same order (NH2 A-B-COOH). This arrangement is the reverse of the gene order characteristic of all prokaryotes that have been examined. N. crassa tryptophan synthetase has strong homology to the yeast TRP5 polypeptide (A domains have 54% identity; B domains have 75% identity), and somewhat weaker homology to the E. coli trpA and trpB polypeptides (A domains have 31% identity; B domains have 50% identity). The two domains of the N. crassa polypeptide are linked by a connector of 54-amino acid residues that has less than 25% identity to the 45-residue connector of the yeast polypeptide, although secondary structure analysis predicts both connectors would be alpha-helical. In contrast to the yeast TRP5 gene, which has no introns, the trp-3 coding region is interrupted by two introns 77 and 71 nucleotides in length. Both introns are located near the 5'-end of the gene and therefore not near the segment encoding the connector. PMID- 2521856 TI - H+-ATPase activity of Escherichia coli F1F0 is blocked after reaction of dicyclohexylcarbodiimide with a single proteolipid (subunit c) of the F0 complex. AB - Dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCCD) specifically inhibits the F1F0-H+-ATP synthase complex of Escherichia coli by covalently modifying a proteolipid subunit that is embedded in the membrane. Multiple copies of the DCCD-reactive protein, also known as subunit c, are found in the F1F0 complex. In order to determine the minimum stoichiometry of reaction, we have treated E. coli membranes with DCCD, at varying concentrations and for varying times, and correlated inhibition of ATPase activity with the degree of modification of subunit c. Subunit c was purified from the membrane, and the degree of modification was determined by two methods. In the "specific radioactivity" method, the moles of [14C]DCCD per total mole of subunit c was calculated from the radioactivity incorporated per mg of protein, and conversion of mg of protein to mol of protein based upon amino acid analysis. In the "high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) peak area" method, the DCCD-modified subunit c was separated from unmodified subunit c on an anion exchange AX300 HPLC column, and the areas of the peaks from the chromatogram quantitated. The shape of the modification versus inhibition curve indicated that modification of a single subunit c per F0 was sufficient to abolish ATPase activity. The titration data were fit by nonlinear regression analysis to a single hit mathematical model, A = Un(1 - r) + r, where A is the relative activity, U is the ratio of unmodified/total subunit c, n is the number of subunit c per F0, and r is a residual fraction of ATPase activity that was resistant to inhibition by DCCD. The two methods gave values for n equal to 10 by the specific radioactivity method and 14 by the HPLC peak area method, and values for r of 0.28 and 0.30, respectively. Most of the r value was accounted for by the observed dissociation of 15-20% of the F1-ATPase from the membrane under ATPase assay conditions. When the minimal, experimentally justified value of r = 0.15 was used in the equation above, the calculated values of n were reduced to 8 and 11, respectively. The value of n determined here, with a probable range of uncertainty of 8-14, is consistent with, and provides an independent type of experimental support for, the suggested stoichiometry of 10 +/- 1 subunit c per F1F0, which was determined by a more precise radiolabeling method (Foster, D. L., and Fillingame, R. H. (1982) J. Biol. Chem. 257, 2009-2015). PMID- 2521858 TI - Cooperative dependence of the actin-activated Mg2+-ATPase activity of Acanthamoeba myosin II on the extent of filament phosphorylation. AB - The actin-activated Mg2+-ATPase of myosin II from Acanthamoeba castellanii is regulated by phosphorylation of 3 serine residues at the tip of the tail of each of its two heavy chains; only dephosphorylated myosin II is active, whereas the phosphorylated and dephosphorylated forms have identical Ca2+-ATPase activities and Mg2+-ATPase activities in the absence of F-actin. We have now chemically modified phosphorylated and dephosphorylated myosin II with N-ethylmaleimide (NEM). The modification occurred principally at a single site within the NH2 terminal 73,000 Da of the globular head of the heavy chain. NEM-myosin II bound to F-actin and formed filaments normally, but the Ca2+- and Mg2+-ATPase activities of phosphorylated and dephosphorylated myosin II and the actin activated Mg2+-ATPase activity of NEM-dephosphorylated myosin II were inhibited. Only filamentous myosin II has actin-activated Mg2+-ATPase activity. Native phosphorylated myosin II acquired actin-activated Mg2+-ATPase activity when it was co-polymerized with NEM-inactivated dephosphorylated myosin II, and the increase in its activity was cooperatively dependent on the fraction of NEM dephosphorylated myosin II in the filaments. From this result, we conclude that the specific activity of each molecule within a filament is independent of its own state of phosphorylation, but is highly cooperatively dependent upon the state of phosphorylation of the filament as a whole. This enables the actin activated Mg2+-ATPase activity of myosin II filaments to respond rapidly and extensively to small changes in the level of their phosphorylation. PMID- 2521857 TI - Phorbol ester or epidermal growth factor (EGF) stimulates the concurrent accumulation of mRNA for the EGF receptor and its ligand transforming growth factor-alpha in a breast cancer cell line. AB - We have previously reported that both 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) and epidermal growth factor (EGF) can stimulate the synthesis rate of EGF receptors. We now show that the MDA468 breast cancer cells express the mRNA for the EGF-like molecule, transforming growth factor-alpha (TGF-alpha), and demonstrate that TPA or EGF cause an accumulation of both EGF receptor and TGF alpha mRNA. The levels of EGF receptor mRNA paralleled our earlier protein data, with peak accumulations of 2-3-fold with 10(-9) M EGF and 3-5-fold with 100 ng/ml TPA seen between 6 and 8 h. A 7-fold accumulation of TGF-alpha mRNA was seen following 4 h of treatment with TPA, and a 2-fold accumulation was seen after 8 h with EGF. These changes in EGF receptor and TGF-alpha mRNAs were observed in the absence of any change in the mRNA level of the alpha-subunit of hexosaminidase A (a lysosomal enzyme), demonstrating some degree of specificity. Detectable quantities of immunoreactive TGF-alpha accumulated in the cell culture medium of MDA468 cell treated with the blocking anti-EGF receptor monoclonal antibody B1D8 while no immunoreactive TGF-alpha was detected in the medium of cells with unblocked receptors. The concentration of B1D8 used was sufficient to block the binding of exogenously added 125I-EGF to undetectable levels but had only minor effects on cell growth and no effect on the expression of the TGF-alpha and EGF receptor mRNA. PMID- 2521859 TI - The relation between glycosylation and activity of guinea pig lipoprotein lipase. AB - Previous studies have indicated that the processing of oligosaccharide chains is necessary for lipoprotein lipase to become catalytically active and may be involved in the regulation of lipase release. Guinea pig adipocytes and perfused guinea pig hearts were labeled with [35S]methionine, and lipoprotein lipase was immunoprecipitated. Digestion with endo-beta-N-acetylglucosaminidase H (Endo H) showed that the mature enzyme contains one high mannose and two complex oligosaccharide chains. Limited proteolysis indicated where in the molecule the chains are attached. Pulse-chase experiments showed that some lipase molecules were rapidly processed and appeared in the medium within 40 min. Other lipase molecules remained fully Endo H-sensitive for more than 2 h, and this form of the lipase did not appear in the medium. Both forms co-eluted with the sole lipoprotein lipase activity peak from heparin-Sepharose; this indicates that both were dimeric. Separation of the two forms was achieved by lectin chromatography and demonstrated that both were catalytically active. Cells treated with methyl deoxynojirimycin or with deoxymannojirimycin produced and released active lipoprotein lipase which was fully Endo H-sensitive. These studies demonstrate that the trimming and processing of the oligosaccharide chains is not necessary for lipoprotein lipase to become catalytically active and be secreted, and they suggest that a comparatively large fraction of the lipase molecules is retained in the endoplasmic reticulum. Whether they ever reach the processing apparatus in the Golgi or are degraded is not clear. PMID- 2521860 TI - Effect of Ca2+ on the dimeric structure of scallop sarcoplasmic reticulum. AB - Scallop sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR), visualized in situ by freeze-fracture and deep-etching, is characterized by long tubes displaying crystalline arrays of Ca2+-ATPase dimer ribbons, resembling those observed in isolated SR vesicles. The orderly arrangement of the Ca2+-ATPase molecules is well preserved in muscle bundles permeabilized with saponin. Treatment with saponin, however, is not needed to isolate SR vesicles displaying a crystalline surface structure. Omission of ATP from the isolation procedure of SR vesicles does not alter the dimeric organization of the Ca2+-ATPase, although the overall appearance of the tubes seems to be affected: the edges of the vesicles are scalloped and the individual Ca2+-ATPase molecules are not clearly defined. The effect of Ca2+ on isolated scallop SR vesicles was investigated by correlating the enzymatic activity and calcium-binding properties of the Ca2+-ATPase with the surface structure of the vesicles, as revealed by electron microscopy. The dimeric organization of the membrane is preserved at Ca2+ concentrations where the Ca2+ binds to the high affinity sites (half-maximum saturation at pCa approximately 7.0 with a Hill coefficient of 2.1) and the Ca2+-ATPase is activated (half maximum activation at pCa approximately 6.8 with a Hill coefficient of 1.84). Higher Ca2+ concentrations disrupt the crystalline surface array of the SR tubes, both in the presence and absence of ATP. We discuss here whether the Ca2+-ATPase dimer identified as a structural unit of the SR membrane represents the Ca2+ pump in the membrane. PMID- 2521862 TI - Regulation of expression of the cell adhesion receptors, integrins, by recombinant human interleukin-1 beta in human osteosarcoma cells: inhibition of cell proliferation and stimulation of alkaline phosphatase activity. AB - Recombinant human interleukin-1 beta, a mediator of osteoblastic cell function, was found to regulate the expression of the cell adhesion receptors, integrins, on human osteosarcoma cells. Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta) at picomolar concentrations, specifically elevated approximately six- to tenfold the expression of the beta 1 subunit and its associated alpha subunits, but not the related vitronectin receptor, within 20 hours. Integrin beta 1 messenger RNA levels were elevated within 6 hours and peaked to tenfold higher levels after 20 hours exposure to IL-1 beta in two human osteosarcoma cell lines. The increase in the cell-surface beta 1 integrins resulted in a stronger binding of the IL-1 beta treated cells to fibronectin. Cell growth was also inhibited by IL-1 beta, cell morphology was altered, and IL-1 beta-treated cells expressed an approximately two- to threefold higher alkaline phosphatase. This increase in alkaline phosphatase activity was found to be independent of the inhibition of cell proliferation. These data indicate that the beta 1 integrin family of cell surface receptors is a target for regulation by IL-1 beta, which also regulates cell proliferation and the expression of the osteoblastic phenotype in human osteosarcoma cells. PMID- 2521863 TI - CV 205-502 treatment of hyperprolactinemia. AB - CV 205-502 is a nonergot oral dopamine agonist with specific D2 activity, which has a prolonged suppressive effect on serum PRL and may have fewer side-effects than other dopamine agonists. We treated 26 hyperprolactinemic women with this compound given as a single bedtime (hs) dose for up to 12 weeks. All had gonadal dysfunction, either amenorrhea or oligomenorrhea, and 15 had galactorrhea. The initial and subsequent doses were administered in a randomized fashion; the initial dose ranged from 0.01-0.05 mg, and the dose at 12 weeks ranged from 0.03 0.09 mg. The women were evaluated every 2 weeks, and the dose was increased by 0.02 mg every 4 weeks if the serum PRL level was greater than 20 micrograms/L. Of the 26 women initially enrolled, 24 completed 12 weeks of therapy, and 2 discontinued therapy because of side-effects. Thirteen women (54%) had return of menses, and 12 (80%) had either a decrease in or disappearance of galactorrhea. Serum PRL concentrations decreased to a variable degree in all patients; 13 (54%) achieved a normal serum PRL level (less than or equal to 20 micrograms/L). The mean (+/- SE) pretreatment serum PRL concentration was 129 +/- 34, and it was 29.9 +/- 5.9 micrograms/L after 12 weeks of treatment (P = 0.005). The mean (+/- SE) percent reduction in serum PRL was 66.5 +/- 5.0% (median, 78.0%). A dose response was not demonstrated (r = -0.08; P = 0.70) among the 6 dose groups during the last 4 weeks of therapy. In 5 women, serum PRL levels, measured frequently for 24 h after treatment remained low. Side-effects after the initiation of therapy included nausea, headache, and morning fatigue in 10 women. These symptoms caused 2 women to discontinue therapy; they subsided in the other women. An optimal dose was not determined and will probably need to be determined by titration in each patient. CV 205-502, given once daily, appears to be a safe and effective alternative to other dopamine agonists in the treatment of hyperprolactinemia. PMID- 2521864 TI - Tubal desterilization through exclusive laparoscopy. AB - The first case of tubal desterilization after Yoon rings through exclusive laparoscopy is reported. Yoon ring tubal segment excision was performed with CO2 laser and coelioscopic scissors, after mesosalpinx haemostasis by ornithine- vasopressin infiltration. Tubal anastomosis was managed with biological glue on an intraluminal guide which was pulled out after 48 h. Follow-up hysterosalpingography 3 months later showed perfect tubal patency. This case proves that complete tubal reversal by exclusive coelioscopy is possible. At present, this procedure is restricted to only one tube during coelioscopic evaluation, preserving, in case of failure, the chance of microsurgery either on the contralateral tube or even on the previously operated one. The advantages of such a technique are those of coeliosurgery: no laparotomy, shortened hospitalization and minimal post-operative adhesions. Since this first case, others have been performed. It is still too early to appreciate the results in terms of intrauterine pregnancy. PMID- 2521861 TI - Isolation of a new member of the S100 protein family: amino acid sequence, tissue, and subcellular distribution. AB - A low molecular mass protein which we term S100L was isolated from bovine lung. S100L possesses many of the properties of brain S100 such as self association, Ca++-binding (2 sites per subunit) with moderate affinity, and exposure of a hydrophobic site upon Ca++-saturation. Antibodies to brain S100 proteins, however, do not cross react with S100L. Tryptic peptides derived from S100L were sequenced revealing similarity to other members of the S100 family. Oligonucleotide probes based on these sequences were used to screen a cDNA library derived from a bovine kidney cell line (MDBK). A 562-nucleotide cDNA was sequenced and found to contain the complete coding region of S100L. The predicted amino acid sequence displays striking similarity, yet is clearly distinct from other members of the S100 protein family. Polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies were raised against S100L and used to determine the tissue and subcellular distribution of this molecule. The S100L protein is expressed at high levels in bovine kidney and lung tissue, low levels in brain and intestine, with intermediate levels in muscle. The MDBK cell line was found to contain both S100L and the calpactin light chain, another member of this protein family. S100L was not found associated with a higher molecular mass subunit in MDBK cells while the calpactin light chain was tightly bound to the calpactin heavy chain. Double label immunofluorescence microscopy confirmed the observation that the calpactin light chain and S100L have a different distribution in these cells. PMID- 2521865 TI - Influence of different stimulation treatments on oocyte characteristics and in vitro fertilizing ability. AB - A retrospective analysis was performed in order to compare the number and quality of oocytes recovered in in-vitro fertilization cycles according to different protocols for ovarian stimulation. Treatments including a gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa), either decapeptyl or buserelin, were associated with the recovery of more oocytes (6.0-7.2%) than treatments without GnRHa (3.7-4.8%). However, the mean number of normal embryos per patient yielding oocyte(s) was comparable between cycles stimulated with or without GnRHa (2.4-2.7), except in those cycles programmed with norethisterone and gonadotrophins (1.7). There was no difference in the rates of immature or atretic oocytes between stimulation treatments. Following clomiphene and human menopausal gonadotrophin treatment there was a lower rate of fractured zona oocytes, higher rates of fertilization and normal growth of fertilized eggs than after any other treatment. The proportion of normal embryos per recovered oocyte was inversely related to the degree of ovarian response in most of the stimulation treatments. Most of the abnormal embryos contained more than two pronuclei in cycles without GnRHa administration and exhibited polynucleated blastomeres in cycles treated with buserelin or decapeptyl. In conclusion, the use of GnRHa and gonadotrophins for ovarian stimulation increased the mean number of recovered oocytes, but did not increase the mean number of embryos able to develop. PMID- 2521866 TI - Embryo quality and uterine receptivity in in-vitro fertilization cycles with or without agonists of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone. AB - The proportion of abnormal oocytes or embryos per recovered oocyte in in-vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles had no influence on the occurrence of pregnancy following the transfer of normal embryo(s) derived from oocytes capable of fertilization. There were more implantations per transferred embryo in stimulated IVF cycles using long-acting buserelin (30.0%) compared with short-acting decapeptyl (17.3%) or no gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa, 15.2%) treatments. However, the chances of implantation per embryo transferred being in excess of one in patients who became pregnant tended to be higher in non-GnRHa (23.5%) compared to buserelin- (16.4%) or decapeptyl- (13.3%) treated IVF cycles. Moreover, frozen--thawed embryos had a higher implantation rate (P less than 0.05) when originating from IVF cycles without GnRHa (11.7%) compared to GnRHa treated cycles (buserelin, 4.3%; decapeptyl, 5.9%). It can be concluded that GnRHa associated with gonadotrophins produced embryos of a poorer aptitude for development than stimulation treatments without GnRHa. The clinical efficacy of GnRHa in IVF--ET cycles could be the result of an improved uterine receptivity to the transferred embryos. PMID- 2521867 TI - Functional study of T lymphocyte responsiveness in patients with dementia of the Alzheimer type. AB - The autologous mixed lymphocyte reaction (AMLR) was used to study T lymphocytes in a group of patients with dementia of the Alzheimer type (DAT) in order to confirm the observation that their T cell proliferation in AMLR was greater than in age-matched controls, and to investigate other pathways of T cell activation, searching for correlations between immunologic and clinical findings in DAT. The mean proliferative response in AMLR was increased in patients with DAT. No differences between patients and age-matched controls were detected when other pathways of T cell activation were investigated. The degree of response in the AMLR varied among patients with DAT. This fits with the suggestion that the disorder may be a heterogeneous syndrome. PMID- 2521869 TI - Fixed drug eruption due to dimenhydrinate. PMID- 2521870 TI - Citrobacter freundii in gram-negative folliculitis. PMID- 2521868 TI - Cimetidine as an immunomodulator in the treatment of herpes zoster. AB - As there is evidence of a possible immunoregulatory role for H2-histamine receptor antagonists, we carried out a prospective randomized trial to evaluate the in vivo and in vitro effect of cimetidine, an H2-blocker, in the treatment of herpes zoster infection. Cimetidine treatment shortened the median interval until the first decrease in pain, the median interval until the complete resolution of pain and promoted faster complete healing of skin lesions than symptomatic treatment. The immunological trends observed in vitro support an important role for histamine in the induction of immunosuppression, as measured by the response to the mitogen phytohemagglutinin. This effect of histamine was antagonized by cimetidine. PMID- 2521871 TI - Benzoyl peroxide in acne. PMID- 2521872 TI - An appeal to members. PMID- 2521873 TI - Angiographic follow-up after balloon angioplasty for coarctation of the aorta. AB - Balloon angioplasty for coarctation of the aorta was performed in 45 patients; 17 (Group 1) were infants (mean age 34 +/- 43 days). This study focuses on the remaining 28 patients (Group 2), children and adults ranging in age from 2 to 31 years (mean 13 +/- 8). Two patients had had previous surgery for coarctation; in the remaining 26 the coarctation had not been surgically treated. Twenty patients (71%) had a discrete type of coarctation; the remaining eight had a diffuse or eccentric stenosis. Angiographic studies of the aorta were performed before and immediately after angioplasty in all 28 patients; 16 (57%) of them also underwent angiographic reevaluation 10 +/- 2 months later. The pressure gradient decreased immediately after angioplasty and was unchanged at follow-up. Residual gradient at follow-up ranged from 0 to 40 mm Hg (mean 11 +/- 13). Patients with a discrete type of coarctation had a lesser residual gradient than did patients with other anatomic types of coarctation. Angiographically, the stenosis also decreased after angioplasty (68 +/- 10% versus 24 +/- 17%; p less than 0.01); a new small, but significant decrease was observed at follow-up (9 +/- 18%; p less than 0.05). A quantitative analysis of the aorta at different levels revealed no significant changes proximal and distal to the coarctation segment; however, at the level of coarctation, a significant (p less than 0.01) and homogeneous increment was observed after dilation that was unchanged at follow-up. One (6%) of 16 reevaluated patients had a clear aneurysm at the site of dilation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521874 TI - Coarctation and balloons: inflated or realistic? PMID- 2521875 TI - Serotonin S2 and thromboxane A2-prostaglandin H2 receptor blockade provide protection against epinephrine-induced cyclic flow variations in severely narrowed canine coronary arteries. AB - The object of this study was to test the hypothesis that administration of both serotonin S2 and thromboxane A2-prostaglandin H2 (PGH2) receptor antagonists provides significant protection against epinephrine-induced cyclic coronary artery flow variations in open chest, anesthetized dogs with severe proximal coronary artery stenosis and endothelial injury. Three groups of dogs were studied. In Group 1 (n = 7) and Group 2 (n = 6), cyclic coronary flow variations were initiated after placement of a concentric constrictor around the left anterior descending coronary artery and were abolished by administration of either a thromboxane A2-prostaglandin H2 receptor antagonist, SQ29,548 (SQ) (Group 1), or a serotonin S2 receptor antagonist, LY53,857 (LY) (Group 2). Cyclic flow variations were restored with an epinephrine infusion and the second antagonist (LY for Group 1; SQ for Group 2) was administered to abolish epinephrine-induced cyclic flow variations. The rate of epinephrine infusion was increased until cyclic coronary flow variations returned (n = 8) or significant hemodynamic changes occurred. Plasma epinephrine concentrations were determined during a control period of cyclic coronary flow variations, after epinephrine restored cyclic flow variations in the presence of either SQ or LY, and again after epinephrine restored cyclic flow variations in the presence of both SQ and LY. A third group of dogs (Group 3, n = 9) required both SQ and LY to eliminate the initial cyclic coronary flow variations and infused epinephrine restored cyclic flow variations (n = 8). Plasma epinephrine concentrations were determined during a control period and after cyclic coronary flow variation restoration with epinephrine.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521876 TI - An immunocytochemical study on co-localization of cathepsin B and atrial natriuretic peptides in secretory granules of atrial myoendocrine cells of rat heart. AB - To examine localization of cathepsin B, a representative lysosomal cysteine protease, in atrial myoendocrine cells of the rat heart, immunohistochemistry at the light and electron microscopic level was applied to the atrial tissue, using a monospecific antibody for rat liver cathepsin B. In serial semi-thin sections, immunoreactivity for cathepsin B and atrial natriuretic peptides (ANP) was detected in the para-nuclear region of atrial myoendocrine cells. Several large granules and many fine granules in the region of the cells were positively stained by the cathepsin B antibody. Gold particles indicating cathepsin B antigenicity labeled secretory granules in the cells, which were also labeled by those indicating ANP, using thin sections of the Lowicryl K4M-embedded material. Moreover, some granules labeled densely by immunogold particles for cathepsin B seemed to be lysosomes. By double immunostaining using thin sections of the Epon embedded material, gold particles indicating cathepsin B and ANP antigenicities were co-localized in secretory granules of the cells. By enzyme assay, activity of cathepsin B was three times higher in atrial tissue than ventricular tissue. The results suggest that co-localization of cathepsin B and ANP in secretory granules is compatible with the possibility that cathepsin B participates in the maturation process of ANP. PMID- 2521877 TI - Development of surface membrane characteristics of "premedullary" macrophages in organ cultures of embryonic rat and hamster lungs. AB - A replicating population of non-monocyte-derived free cells appears in organ cultured embryonic rat lungs, indistinguishable from alveolar macrophages by classical criteria such as ultrastructure, lysosomal enzyme cytochemistry, and phagocytic behavior. We demonstrate similar events in cultured embryonic hamster lungs and development of macrophage-associated properties on the plasmalemma of these cells in both species. Immunoperoxidase localizations were obtained using monoclonal antibodies against alveolar macrophage antigen (HAM1) in hamsters, and rat macrophage antigen (ED1) and leukocyte-common antigen (OX1) in rats. Fc and C3b receptors were identified in both species by immune rosetting. HAM1 staining, perinuclear in rare cells at explantation, gains definitive surface localization 3-4 days later as cells prepare to emerge through the pleura. ED1 and OX1 cytoplasmic staining first occurs after 24 hr, increases as macrophages multiply and congregate beneath the pleura, and translocates to the plasmalemma of emerged cells. Some glass-adherent cells from lung explants have Fc receptors. The proportion rises sharply for 24 hr and equals fully emerged cells (90-95%) by days 3-4. At first phagocytosis is slow to follow Fc receptor binding, but ingestion time decreases to 3-10 min as macrophages mature. A minority of emerged macrophages bind complement-opsonized erythrocytes, which are rarely taken up. These properties are shared by alveolar macrophages of adults. PMID- 2521878 TI - Stimulation of murine T cell subsets with anti-CD3 antibody. Age-related defects in the expression of early activation molecules. AB - Splenocytes from young (3 to 4 mo) and aged (24 to 26 mo) C57BL/6 mice were stimulated with anti-CD3 epsilon mAb in vitro. At the time of peak DNA synthesis (day 2), cells from aged mice incorporated congruent to 60% less [3H]TdR than cells from young mice. This age-related defect was not attributable to gross differences in anti-CD3 does optima, response kinetics, accessory cell function, numbers of T cells cultured, CD4+:CD8+ cell ratios or surface levels of CD3 epsilon molecules. In an attempt to analyze pre-S phase events in these responses, we monitored CD4+ and CD8+ cells in splenocyte cultures for the time dependent expression of three T cell activation markers: RL388 Ag and IL-2R and transferrin R. Parallel analyses of mean T cell size and cell cycle phase distributions were performed. Non-activated T cells from both age groups similarly expressed moderate levels of RL388 Ag, low levels of transferrin R, and undetectable levels of IL-2R. Analysis of stimulated T cells revealed, in both age groups: 1) detectable increases in expression of all three markers by 6 h of culture, and continued increases associated with blastogenesis and G1 phase transit and 2) a preferential stimulation of the CD8+ subset to a state of high level marker expression. Age group comparisons of activation marker expression over time suggested that the age-related defect reflects proportionally smaller fractions of CD4+ and CD8+ cells that respond normally, rather than a general defect in all T cells or a subset-specific defect. Finally, we found that supernatants from aged donor cell cultures stimulated with anti-CD3 contained less Il-2 than those of young controls. Addition of an IL-2 containing supernatant to aged donor cell cultures increased, but did not restore, the S phase response on day 2; however, the response on day 3 was comparable to the peak (day 2) response of young controls. These data suggest that exogenous IL-2 can improve the aged response, perhaps by expanding the fraction of normally reactive T cells. PMID- 2521879 TI - Split tolerance in nude mice transplanted with 2'-deoxyguanosine-treated allogeneic thymus lobes. AB - To elucidate the acquisition of self tolerance in the thymus, full-allogeneic thymic chimeras were constructed. Athymic C3H and BALB/c nude mice were reconstituted with the thymic lobes of BALB/c and B10.BR fetuses, respectively, that were organ cultured for 5 days in the presence of 2'-deoxyguanosine. T cells in these chimeras were tolerized to the host MHC in both MLR and CTL assays. In contrast, T cells in the chimeras exhibited split tolerance for the thymic MHC haplotype. CTL specific for class I MHC of the thymic haplotype were generated not only from the peripheral T cells of the chimeras but also from thymocytes re populated in the engrafted thymic lobes. However, T cells in these chimeras responded poorly to the class II MHC of the thymic haplotype in a standard MLR assay. In a syngeneic MLR culture upon stimulation with enriched APC of the thymic haplotype, only 22 to 48% of the responses were mediated by CD4+ cells, and proliferations of CD4- cells were prominent. There were no haplotype-specific suppressor cells detected which would cause the unresponsiveness to the thymic class II MHC. These results indicated that the thymic lobes treated with 2' deoxyguanosine were defective in the ability to induce the transplantation tolerance for the class I MHC expressed on the thymus, although the same thymic lobes were able to induce the transplantation tolerance for the thymic class II MHC. PMID- 2521880 TI - Treatment of murine lupus with F(ab')2 fragments of monoclonal antibody to L3T4. Suppression of autoimmunity does not depend on T helper cell depletion. AB - Treatment with mAb to the L3T4 Ag on Th cells can inhibit autoimmunity in mice. However, the mechanism by which anti-L3T4 inhibits autoimmunity is not known. In these studies, lupus-prone NZB/NZW F1 (B/W) mice were treated with F(ab')2 fragments of mAb to L3T4 to determine whether Th cell depletion is required for the beneficial effects of anti-L3T4. We first showed that treatment of female B/W mice with F(ab')2 anti-L3T4 from age 5 to 9 mo significantly reduced autoantibody production without depleting L3T4+ cells. However, treatment was complicated by the development of a host immune response to the rat mAb fragments. To circumvent this problem, female B/W mice were treated with a single high-dose of intact rat mAb to L3T4 (GK1.5) at age two mo. to induce immune tolerance to the mAb. Then, after recovery of L3T4+ cells, the mice were treated from age four to 14 mo with either F(ab')2 anti-L3T4 (0.5 mg 3 times per wk), intact anti-L3T4, or saline. In mice tolerized by this regimen, neither the F(ab')2 rat mAb nor the intact rat mAb elicited a host response. The mAb fragments bound target Ag but did not deplete the Th cells, whereas intact mAb to L3T4 profoundly depleted the L3T4+ cells. Despite this difference, both therapies had the same substantial beneficial effects on autoimmunity. They significantly decreased anti-DNA Ab production, improved renal function and prolonged survival. The initial tolerizing dose, by itself, did not inhibit autoimmunity. These findings show that anti-L3T4 suppresses autoimmunity by directly altering Th cell function through the L3T4 Ag, and not solely by depleting Th cells. They also document the detrimental effects of the host immune response to therapy with anti-L3T4 mAb, and they demonstrate a new strategy by which this response may be prevented. PMID- 2521881 TI - Identification of IL-1 receptors on human monocytes. AB - The expression and functional analysis of IL-1 beta R on human monocytes were investigated. Binding of 125I-IL-1 to human monocytes was found to be specific and saturable. Scatchard plot analysis revealed a single class of receptors with a binding constant of 600 pM and a receptor density of approximately 100 binding sites per cell. At 37 degrees C 54% of the labeled ligand was internalized over 2 h of incubation. Addition of 0.2% sodium azide to the cells reduced ligand internalization to 9% of total bound. Cross-linking studies revealed that the IL 1R in human monocytes had a Mr of 80 kDa. The addition of IL-1 to monocytes caused changes in membrane Ag expression as assessed by flow cytometric analysis. The results of this study identify IL-1 receptors on monocytes and suggest that IL-1 may act as an effector molecule for monocytes by enhancing expression of Ag correlated with cell differentiation and immune function. PMID- 2521882 TI - Mitogenic activation of human T cells induces two closely related genes which share structural similarities with a new family of secreted factors. AB - Previously we have isolated about 60 novel cDNA clones whose corresponding mRNAs are induced by mitogenic activation in human peripheral blood T cells. Here we describe the primary structure and regulation of two such cloned genes, pAT 464 and pAT 744, which may encode new lymphokines/cytokines. Similar to IL-2, both genes require the synergy of agents such as PHA and PMA for optimal expression, and, in addition, the induction of both is sensitive to the immunosuppressive drug cyclosporin A. The two genes can be expressed in T cells, B cells, and the promyelocytic cell line HL60, but they are not expressed in human fibroblasts, suggesting that their expression is restricted to hematopoietic lineages. The predicted peptides encoded by these two clones feature hydrophobic N-terminal leaders characteristic of secreted proteins. The predicted size of both proteins is about 8 kDa upon cleavage of the putative leader peptide. pAT 464 and pAT 744 are very similar to each other and also share some critical amino acid similarity with a newly emerging family of secreted factors including connective tissue activating factor III, platelet factor 4, an IFN-gamma-induced factor, macrophage inflammatory protein, and a factor chemotactic to neutrophils (3-10C, monocyte derived neutrophil chemotactic factor, neutrophil-activating factor). Some of these factors have been shown to display functions associated with an inflammatory response and/or have mitogenic activities. Collectively, the data presented here suggest that pAT 464 and pAT 744 encode novel lymphokines/cytokines which may play roles during an immune response similar to those enacted by these structurally related factors. PMID- 2521883 TI - Intracellular cleavage of newly synthesized low affinity Fc epsilon receptor (Fc epsilon R2) provides a second pathway for the generation of the 28-kDa soluble Fc epsilon R2 fragment. AB - It has been reported that the 45-kDa low affinity Fc epsilon R (Fc epsilon R2) on B cells is cleaved spontaneously from the cell surface to release a 28-kDa soluble fragment (sFc epsilon R2). This study demonstrates an additional mechanism by which B cells generate this fragment. Data from 35S methionine pulse chase experiments with the Fc epsilon R2 bearing human B lymphoblastoid cell line, RPMI 8866, and immunoprecipitations of cell lysates and culture supernatants with an Fc epsilon R2 specific mAb, mAb 25, demonstrates the existence of a cell-associated 28-kDa Fc epsilon R2 fragment. This fragment was shown by partial amino(NH2)-terminal sequence analysis to be identical to the previously described 28-kDa sFc epsilon R2. The resistance to cell treatment with trypsin indicated that it was located intracellularly. Its appearance early in the biosynthesis of the Fc epsilon R2 (within a 10-min pulse), before the Fc epsilon R2 reached the cell surface, suggested that some of this fragment was generated intracellularly. Neutralization of acidic organelles with NH4Cl inhibited the formation of this intracellular fragment, strongly suggesting that it was a produce of intracellular cleavage of the Fc epsilon R2. Finally, this 28 kDa intracellular fragment was shown to be released into the culture supernatant, suggesting an intracellular mechanism by which the cells generate sFc epsilon R2. PMID- 2521884 TI - Evidence that a kinase distinct from protein kinase C induces CD3 gamma-subunit phosphorylation without a concomitant down-regulation in CD3 antigen expression. AB - An immediate consequence of Ag-specific activation of T cells is phosphorylation of the gamma-subunit of the CD3 gamma-chain. There is good evidence that the kinase that mediates CD3 gamma-chain phosphorylation is protein kinase C (pkC). It has also been proposed that the interaction between pkC and CD3 gamma-chains controls the cell surface expression of the antigen receptor/CD3 Ag complex. In the present study we present data relevant to these two points. Thus we show that CD3 gamma-subunit phosphorylation can be triggered by the calcium ionophore ionomycin. However, as judged by several criteria, ionomycin does not stimulate cellular pkC. Accordingly, ionomycin must regulate phosphorylation of the CD3 Ag by a kinase distinct from pkC. The phosphorylation of CD3 Ag induced by ionomycin is not accompanied by a modulation of the cell surface expression of CD3 molecules which implies that CD3 gamma-chain phosphorylation is not a sufficient signal for the endocytosis of the CD3/Ag receptor complex. PMID- 2521885 TI - Pertussis toxin effects on T lymphocytes are mediated through CD3 and not by pertussis toxin catalyzed modification of a G protein. AB - Pertussis toxin (PT) has been shown to have a variety of effects on T lymphocyte function, and its activity has been used to suggest the involvement of a G protein in the early events of T lymphocyte activation. In this report, the effects of PT on T lymphocytes have been investigated in detail. PT at a concentration of 10 micrograms/ml rapidly stimulated early events that are normally induced by occupancy of the TCR complex in Jurkat cells and cloned, murine CTL including increased intracellular Ca2+ concentration, serine esterase release, and induction of Ag non-specific target cell lysis. However, 1-h treatment with this concentration of PT induced a state that was refractory to further receptor stimulation in Jurkat cells but not cloned CTL although substrate membrane proteins were modified to a similar extent in both cell lines. The functional effects of PT were mimicked by the B oligomer of PT which did not, however, catalyze ADP-ribosylation of membrane proteins. In addition, overnight exposure of Jurkat cells to a lower concentration of PT also modified substrate membrane proteins but did not inhibit receptor stimulation. These findings indicate that PT catalyzed ADP-ribosylation of a G protein does not account for the actions of the toxin on T lymphocytes. Finally, direct stimulation of increased intracellular Ca2+ concentration by PT and the B oligomer only occurred in T lymphocytes expressing CD3. This suggests that the mitogenic effect of PT holotoxin is mediated by the interaction of the B oligomer with CD3 and that this may account for many of the effects of PT holotoxin both in vivo and in vitro. PMID- 2521887 TI - Cutaneous blood flow and percutaneous absorption: a quantitative analysis using a laser Doppler velocimeter and a blood flow meter. AB - Cutaneous blood flow has been directly quantitated in vivo for the first time without animal death utilizing the rat skin sandwich flap. This was accomplished by conducting experiments that made a direct correlation between two instruments: a laser Doppler velocimeter and an electromagnetic blood flow meter. Data demonstrate that the correlation between these two instruments is high and reproducible (r = 0.96) with a small (1.3%) coefficient of variation. Blood flow to skin in the unmanipulated state varies from 0.7 to 1.2 mls/min in an anesthetized rat. Application of the blood flow correlation to the determination of percutaneous absorption of caffeine across human skin and benzoic acid across rat skin demonstrates that assuming cutaneous blood flow is a particular value day to day in any skin type results in an apparent wide range of total compound absorbed across that skin on independent occasions. Utilizing actual blood flow measurements to calculate the amount of chemical absorbed reduces the range of variability in the total amount of chemical absorbed and provides a more accurate knowledge of events occurring during a particular time of the absorption process. Quantitation of cutaneous blood flow will be useful in physiologic and pharmacologic studies where actual cutaneous blood flow is likely to be important to the processes studied, e.g., delivery of drug to skin, metabolism within the skin, and disposition of drug to blood and skin following topical drug application. PMID- 2521886 TI - Normal hematopoietic progenitor cells and malignant lymphohematopoietic cells show different susceptibility to direct cell-mediated MHC-non-restricted lysis by T cell receptor-/CD3-, T cell receptor gamma delta+/CD3+ and T cell receptor alpha beta+/CD3+ lymphocytes. AB - To evaluate the capability of NK cells and cytotoxic T lymphocytes to interact with normal hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPC), as compared to neoplastic lymphohematopoietic cells, we investigated inhibition of colony growth of these cell populations in semi-solid culture systems, after incubation with cloned cytotoxic effector cells. Three different types of cloned effector cells were investigated: TCR-/CD3- NK cells, TCR-gamma delta+/CD3+ cells, and TCR-alpha beta+/CD3+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes. Effector cells showed differential levels of tumor cell colony inhibition, but no MHC-non-restricted lysis of normal HPC was observed. Pre-stimulation of normal HPC by culturing on established stromal layers had no effect. Cell-mediated lysis of HPC only occurred by Ag-specific MHC restricted lysis by CTL, or by antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity. In cell mixing experiments, irradiated tumor cells, but not normal bone marrow cells inhibited tumor cell lysis. Furthermore, cloned effector lymphocytes were able to specifically eliminate malignant cells from tumor contaminated bone marrow without damaging normal HPC. When fresh leukemic cells were used as targets, growth of acute myeloblastic leukemia colonies was inhibited after incubation with several cytotoxic effector clones, whereas chronic myeloid leukemia precursor cells showed limited sensitivity to MHC-non-restricted cytolysis. These results indicate that MHC-non-restricted cytolysis by NK cells is selectively directed against neoplastic cells and not against normal HPC. PMID- 2521889 TI - Plasma levels of atrial natriuretic peptides during pregnancy and post partum in the rat. AB - Plasma concentrations of atrial natriuretic peptides (ANP) in female Wistar rats were measured by radioimmunoassay at oestrus, during pregnancy, during parturition and between 3 h and 4 days post partum. Concentrations of ANP in rats on days 10, 15 and 17 of pregnancy were not significantly different from those in non-pregnant animals in oestrus (32.5 +/- 2.2 pmol/l; mean +/- S.E.M., n = 9), but levels near term (days 20 and 21 of pregnancy) were reduced by approximately 50%. However, plasma concentrations of ANP at 6, 12 and 24 h post partum were approximately twice those of non-pregnant animals in oestrus, but returned to normal levels within 4 days after parturition. Maternal plasma volume increased significantly during pregnancy, and fell 15-20% 6-24 h post partum. These results suggest that the relationship between plasma volume and the plasma concentration of ANP is reset during pregnancy and changes rapidly post partum. The results do not necessarily, however, imply any changes in the relationship between atrial pressure and the concentration of ANP. PMID- 2521888 TI - Characterization of five mouse monoclonal antibodies to apolipoprotein[a] from human Lp[a]: evidence for weak plasminogen reactivity. AB - We describe the development of five murine monoclonal antibodies (14A12, 39A1, 53A9, 73A7, and 128A6) specific to human apolipoprotein[a] (Mr approximately 570,000), and their characterization by a number of procedures including cotitration, competition and inhibition enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), immunoblotting of native lipoproteins and of SDS-solubilized apolipoproteins electrophoresed in polyacrylamide gels, and dot immunobinding assays. The patterns of immunoreactivity of these antibodies were similar. Each reacted in ELISA assays and upon electroimmunoblotting with purified apo[a], with apo[a] liberated by reduction of Lp[a], and with delipidated Lp[a] solubilized in SDS, but by contrast, they reacted with native Lp[a] to a significant degree only upon electroimmunoblotting. No reactivity was seen with LDL-apoB-100 or with other apolipoproteins. The cross-reactivity of these antibodies with the homologous protein, plasminogen, was examined by comparison of the amount of plasminogen or apo[a] required for 50% inhibition of antibody binding to apo[a], and by an ELISA assay. The inhibition assay showed reactivity with plasminogen to be 37- to 50-fold lower than with apo[a], while dot immunobinding showed the lower limit of detection of plasminogen and of apo[a] to be approximately 320 and 31 micrograms, respectively. In an ELISA sandwich assay based on monoclonal antibodies LHLP-1, 14A12, and 53A9, the lower limit of Lp[a] detection (approximately 1 ng/ml protein) was about 100-fold less than that of plasminogen. Chemical modification of apo[a] revealed a significant contribution of arginine residues to the epitopes of 14A12, 39A1, and 53A9. Modification of cysteine residues with iodoacetamide was without effect, thereby distinguishing these antibodies from LHLP-1. Each antibody reacted with the six major size forms of apo[a] (Mr approximately 450,000-750,000) in immunoblots of human sera electrophoresed in SDS-polyacrylamide gels. Marked heterogeneity in apo[a] phenotype was detected and both single and double band phenotypes were observed in a randomized study. Cotitration and competition binding studies showed varying degrees of interaction between all five epitopes, with the exception of 128A6 which appeared to be independent of 39A1 and 53A9 (and vice versa). These data suggest that our five monoclonal antibodies recognize epitopes on apolipoprotein[a] that are exposed and accessible on the native Lp[a] particle. We conclude that our monoclonal antibodies recognize a specific region of apo[a], and that this region undergoes a conformational change upon adsorption of Lp[a] to plastic thereby diminishing epitope recognition.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2521890 TI - Cortisol stimulates whole body calcium uptake and the branchial calcium pump in freshwater rainbow trout. AB - Exposure of rainbow trout to a reduced ambient calcium level (from 490 to 25 mumol Ca2+/l) caused hypocalcaemia and induced a rapid increase (within 1 h) in systemic cortisol levels. Under conditions of low environmental calcium concentrations, cortisol levels remained increased for at least 8 days. After this time the in-vitro Ca2+-transport capacity of branchial basolateral membrane vesicles was increased due to stimulation of Ca2+-ATPase activity, presumably as a result of chloride cell proliferation. Pituitary prolactin cells were unaffected by low ambient calcium levels. Fish kept in water containing 490 mumol Ca2+/l and treated with cortisol for 7 days displayed an increase in whole body calcium uptake and an enhancement of the branchial calcium transport capacity; concomitantly, hypercalcaemia was observed. We conclude that, in the rainbow trout, cortisol exerts hypercalcaemic effects by stimulating Ca2+ uptake from the water and that this effect forms an intrinsic part of the established mineralocorticoid action of cortisol in fish. PMID- 2521891 TI - Postmortem determination of the biological distribution of sufentanil and midazolam after an acute intoxication. AB - A case is presented of a death caused by self-injection of sufentanil and midazolam. Biological fluids and tissues were analyzed for midazolam by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and for sufentanil by GC/MS. Midazolam was extracted from basified fluids or tissues homogenated with n-butyl chloride and analyzed by HPLC by using a phosphate buffer: acetonitrile (60:40) mobile phase on a mu-Bondapak C18 column at 240 nm. Sufentanil was extracted from basified fluids and tissue homogenates with hexane:ethanol (19:1). GC/MS methodology for both compounds consisted of chromatographic separation on a 15-m by 0.25-mm inside diameter (ID) DB-5 (1.0 micron-thick film) bonded phase fused silica capillary column with helium carrier (29 cm/s) splitless injection at 260 degrees C; column 200 degrees C (0.8 min) 10 degrees C/min to 270 degrees C; and electron ionization and multiple ion detection for midazolam (m/z 310), methaqualone (IS, m/z 235), sufentanil (m/z 289), and fentanyl (IS, m/z 245). Sufentanil concentrations were: blood 1.1 ng/mL, urine 1.3 ng/mL, vitreous humor 1.2 ng/mL, liver 1.75 ng/g, and kidney 5.5 ng/g. Midazolam concentrations were: blood 50 ng/mL, urine 300 ng/mL, liver 930 ng/g, and kidney 290 ng/g. Cause of death was attributed to an acute sufentanil/midazolam intoxication and manner of death a suicide. PMID- 2521892 TI - Structural properties of the heparan sulfate proteoglycans of brain. AB - The heparan sulfate proteoglycans present in a deoxycholate extract of rat brain were purified by ion exchange chromatography, affinity chromatography on lipoprotein lipase agarose, and gel filtration. Heparitinase treatment of the heparan sulfate proteoglycan fraction (containing 86% heparan sulfate and 10% chondroitin sulfate) that was eluted from the lipoprotein lipase affinity column with 1 M NaCl led to the appearance of a major protein core with a molecular size of 55,000 daltons, as determined by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Comparison of the effects of heparinase and heparitinase treatment revealed that the heparan sulfate proteoglycans of brain contain a significant proportion of relatively short N-sulfoglucosaminyl 6-O-sulfate [or N sulfoglucosaminyl](alpha 1-4)iduronosyl 2-O-sulfate(alpha 1-4) repeating units and that the portions of the heparan sulfate chains in the vicinity of the carbohydrate-protein linkage region are characterized by the presence of D glucuronic acid rather than L-iduronic acid. After chondroitinase treatment of a proteoglycan fraction that contained 62% chondroitin sulfate and 21% heparan sulfate (eluted from lipoprotein lipase with 0.4 M NaCl), the charge and density of a portion of the heparan sulfate-containing proteoglycans decreased significantly. These results indicate that a population of "hybrid" brain proteoglycans exists that contain both chondroitin sulfate and heparan sulfate chains covalently linked to a common protein core. PMID- 2521893 TI - AH5183 and cetiedil: two potent inhibitors of acetylcholine uptake into isolated synaptic vesicles from Torpedo marmorata. AB - Synaptic vesicles purified on a sucrose-KCl sedimentation gradient were tested for their ability to accumulate [1-14C]acetylcholine ([1-14C]ACh) in the absence and in the presence of AH5183 and cetiedil. Kinetic studies of ACh transport showed that it was time dependent and saturable as a function of ACh concentration, with a KT of 1.2 mM. The protein-modifying agents N-ethylmaleimide and 4-chloro-7-nitrobenzo-2-oxa-1,3-diazole were powerful inhibitors of ACh uptake. In agreement with other studies, AH5183 was found to be a potent inhibitor of ACh uptake by synaptic vesicles. Inhibition was of the mixed noncompetitive type, and the inhibition constant was 45.2 +/- 3.4 nM. Cetiedil, a drug that resembles ACh, was previously shown on intact nerve endings to inhibit the translocation of newly synthesized ACh into the synaptic vesicle compartment, and we demonstrate here that cetiedil is indeed an efficient blocker of ACh uptake by isolated synaptic vesicles. It acted as a competitive inhibitor, with a Ki of 118.5 +/- 9.5 nM. Neither ATP-dependent calcium uptake nor Mg2+-ATPase activity was affected by the drugs, a finding showing their specificity toward the ACh uptake process. The binding of L-[3H]AH5183 to intact vesicles was characterized in the absence or the presence of ACh or cetiedil. Saturation experiments showed a total binding capacity of approximately 126 pmol/mg of vesicular protein and a dissociation constant of 19.9 +/- 4.1 nM under control conditions.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521894 TI - Medial forebrain bundle stimulation or D-2 dopamine receptor activation increases preproenkephalin mRNA in rat striatum. AB - Electrical stimulation of the medial forebrain bundle, in a manner that augmented the release of dopamine in the forebrain, rapidly increased the striatal content of preproenkephalin (but not preprotachykinin) mRNA. This effect was mimicked by administration of either the indirect (dopamine-releasing) agonist methamphetamine or by the D-2 dopamine receptor agonist quinpirole, but not by the D-1 agonist SKF 38393. These data suggest that D-2 receptors, which mediate a stimulatory effect on enkephalin gene expression, may be subsaturated under basal conditions and, therefore, responsive to increases in synaptic dopamine. PMID- 2521895 TI - Increase in kynurenic acid in Huntington's disease motor cortex. AB - Huntington's disease is a neurological disorder characterised by a progressive chorea and dementia. Recent evidence has suggested that dysfunction involving endogenous excitatory amino acids may be important in the pathogenesis of this disease. Following the recent demonstration that kynurenic acid is present in the brain, we examined the levels in various areas of brain from patients who died with Huntington's disease and from age/sex-matched controls. Blocks (100-500 mg) of cortex (Brodmann's areas 4 and 10) and caudate nucleus and globus pallidus (lateral and medial parts) were obtained from the Cambridge Brain Bank. The tissue was then processed for the extraction and analysis of kynurenic acid. Whereas no differences in the content of kynurenic acid were observed in the caudate nucleus, lateral or medial globus pallidus, or prefrontal cortex (area 10) between controls' brains and those from patients who died with Huntington's disease, there was a 94% (p less than 0.01; n = 5) increase in the kynurenic acid content in the motor cortex (area 4) from Huntington's disease brains, relative to those of controls. Some time ago we suggested that a subtle change in the relative concentrations of quinolinic and kynurenic acids might be important in the pathogenesis of neurodegeneration. It is possible that the observation of raised kynurenic acid levels supports this supposition. Further work is now in progress to determine whether the change in kynurenic acid is a primary effect or a compensatory response to an increase in excitatory activity. PMID- 2521896 TI - Neuropsychological evidence for multiple implicit memory systems: a comparison of Alzheimer's, Huntington's, and Parkinson's disease patients. AB - The performances of patients with dementia of the Alzheimer type (DAT), patients with Huntington's disease (HD), and demented and nondemented patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) were compared on 2 tests of implicit memory that do not require the conscious recollection of prior study episodes: (1) a pursuit-rotor motor learning task and (2) a lexical priming test. The HD patients were found to be impaired on the motor learning but not the lexical priming task, whereas the DAT patients evidenced the opposite relationship on these tasks. The demented, but not the nondemented, PD patients were found to be impaired on both tests of implicit memory. For both the HD and PD patients, deficits on the motor learning task correlated significantly with severity of dementia but not with level of primary motor dysfunction. The noted double dissociation between HD and DAT patients indicates that different forms of implicit memory, all of which are intact in amnesia, are dependent upon distinct neuroanatomic systems. Motor skill learning may be mediated by a corticostriatal system, whereas verbal priming may depend upon the integrity of the neocortical association areas involved in the storage of semantic knowledge. The results for the PD patients suggest that the demented PD patients have endured damage to the neurologic systems subserving both motor learning and lexical priming. PMID- 2521897 TI - Effects of active and completed litigation on treatment results: workers' compensation patients compared with other litigation patients. AB - Outcomes of multidisciplinary pain treatment in workers' compensation claimants and in the claimants of other insurance companies were studied. Patients were also segregated as to state of completion of the litigation process. No differences were found between the groups in organic and psychologic pathology. Significant improvement in outcome measures was found for the total group, but the workers' compensation claimants with completed litigation failed to show any significant improvement in these measures. The system itself and legal factors can be obstacles to rehabilitation of the patient with chronic pain. Early intervention is recommended to improve treatment outcome. PMID- 2521899 TI - Effect of the thromboxane A2 receptor antagonist SQ 30,741 on ultimate myocardial infarct size, reperfusion injury and coronary flow reserve. AB - We determined if the thromboxane A2 antagonist SQ 30,741 can reduce ultimate myocardial infarct size and reperfusion injury. Anesthetized dogs were subjected to left circumflex coronary artery occlusion for 90 min at which time reperfusion was instituted. In one study, SQ 30,741 (1 mg/kg + 1 mg/kg/hr) was given either 10 min postocclusion (n = 7) or 2 min (n = 9) before reperfusion along with their appropriate vehicle controls in a model of 90 min of occlusion and 5 hr of reperfusion. Infarct size was reduced 50% (P less than .05) when SQ 30,741 was given 10 min postocclusion and 30% (P less than .05) when given only during reperfusion. Flow reserve using maximally dilating doses of adenosine was determined 3 hr postreperfusion in vehicle (10 min postocclusion, n = 10), SQ 30,741 (10 min postocclusion, n = 6) and nonischemic (n = 5) animals. Maximal subendocardial flow was reduced during reperfusion in ischemic animals, but SQ 30,741 improved this compared to vehicle animals (400 +/- 95, 88 +/- 25 and 208 +/- 48 ml/min/100 g; nonischemic, vehicle, SQ 30,741 groups, respectively). To determine if myocardial salvage can be observed 24 hr postocclusion with SQ 30,741 or the cyclooxygenase inhibitor aspirin, dogs were given vehicle (n = 9), SQ 30,741 (10 min postocclusion up to 4 hr postreperfusion) or aspirin (n = 9, 40 mg/kg 30 min preocclusion) and infarct size was determined 24 hr postocclusion (90 min left circumflex coronary artery occlusion + reperfusion).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521898 TI - Altered structural and functional properties of myosins, from platelets of idiopathic scoliosis patients. AB - Platelets of patients with idiopathic scoliosis (IS) have been shown to have decreased capacity to aggregate and secrete in response to certain agonists. Similarities between the contractile protein system of platelets and muscle have made the platelets a popular model for muscle disease. We attempted to characterize the function and structure of myosin in platelets of IS patients. Blood was obtained from seven IS patients and seven matched non-scoliotic healthy controls. The mean Cobb angle measurement of the IS patients was 35.4 degrees with a mean Risser sign of 2.2. Washed platelets were isolated from the blood, and the contractile proteins from the membrane and the cytosol compartments were isolated and analyzed by two-dimensional peptide mapping. As previously reported (J Biol Chem 258:9290, 1983), peptide maps of normal platelets revealed that the heavy chain of myosin located in the platelet membrane lacks one major spot relative to the cytoplasmic myosin. In IS patients the cytoplasmic myosin lacks the same peptide that is missing in the membrane myosin of normal individuals. In addition, the ATPase specific activity of the cytoplasmic myosin from IS platelets was significantly lower compared with the activity of the cytoplasmic myosin from normal platelets. These results suggest the presence of a fundamental abnormality of IS platelet contractile proteins. PMID- 2521900 TI - Castration blocks chronic sulpiride-induced desensitization of striatal D1 receptor-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity in male rats. AB - Gonadal hormones have been shown to modulate adaptive responses of the mesostriatal dopaminergic system to antipsychotic challenge. We examined the role of endogenous gonadal steroids in the regulation of D1 receptor function after chronic treatment with sulpiride, a D2 specific antagonist. Chronic sulpiride treatment induced a desensitization of striatal D1 receptor-simulated adenylate cyclase activity in intact male rats with no change in the number of D1 or D2 receptors. This desensitization of D1-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity was expressed as a decrease in Vmax with no change in the activation constant. Castration of male rats blocked the chronic sulpiride-induced desensitization of D1 receptor function. Castration of male rats also resulted in a decrease in the number of D1 receptors as measured by [3H]SCH23390 binding. Ovariectomy of female rats had no effect on striatal D1 receptor-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity. Preliminary studies showed no effect of chronic sulpiride treatment on D1 receptor function in intact or ovariectomized female rats. We conclude that testicular hormones have a permissive effect on the expression of the chronic sulpiride-induced desensitization of D1 receptor function. PMID- 2521901 TI - Effects of low extracellular chloride on dopamine release and the dopamine transporter. AB - Removal of chloride (Cl-) from the superfusion medium results in increased spontaneous efflux of dopamine (DA) but not acetylcholine from rabbit striatal slices prelabeled with [3H]DA and [14C]choline. Cl- was substituted to varying degrees with the impermeant anion, isethionate (IS-), or the permeant anion, nitrate (NO3-). The magnitude of low Cl(-)-induced DA efflux was inversely related to the external [Cl-] and was greater with IS- than with NO3-. Analysis of the composition of the 3H efflux in terms of DA and its metabolites revealed an increase in [3H]DA with decreasing Cl- concentration. Reduction of external Ca++ from 1.3 to 0.13 mM increased low Cl(-)-induced DA efflux. In slices depleted of vesicular DA by reserpine pretreatment and subsequently labeled and superfused in the presence of monoamine oxidase and catechol-O-methyltransferase inhibitors, the same inverse relationship between [Cl-] and spontaneous DA efflux was observed. Neuronal DA uptake inhibitors, nomifensine, mazindol, GBR-12909 and cocaine, all increased the rate of low Cl(-)-induced DA efflux in the reserpinized preparation. Cl(-)-induced DA efflux in untreated and reserpinized preparations was not blocked by tetrodotoxin, amiloride, furosemide, picrotoxin or 4-acetamido-4'-isothiocyanatostilbene-2,2'-disulfonic acid). Low Cl- inhibited initial rates of [3H]DA uptake. At Cl- concentrations producing significantly different efflux rates (0 and 7.4 mM Cl-, IS- and NO3- substitution), DA uptake was inhibited in all cases by greater than 90%. Additionally, the binding of [3H]mazindol, one of the uptake inhibitors, to striatal membranes was unaffected by removal of Cl-. In summary, low Cl- produces a nonexocytotic rapid outward transport of DA. Extracellular Cl- is not required for the binding to transporter sites or for the inhibition of neuronal uptake produced by neuronal uptake inhibitors. PMID- 2521902 TI - Effect of activation of central nervous system serotonin 1A receptors on cardiorespiratory function. AB - Previous studies indicate that the new antihypertensive drug, urapidil, acts at the ventral surface of the medulla in cats to produce a fall in blood pressure. In addition, urapidil was found in receptor binding studies to have a relatively high affinity for the serotonin 1A receptor. These results suggest that drugs which bind to the serotonin 1A receptor might exert hypotensive effects at the ventral surface of the medulla (VSM). To test this hypothesis, the effects of 8 hydroxy-2-(di-N-propylamino)tetralin (8-OH-DPAT), the prototype drug for activating serotonin 1A receptors, were evaluated for cardiovascular activity after local application to the VSM. 8-OH-DPAT applied bilaterally to the intermediate area of the VSM in a dose of 1 micrograms/side produced a decrease in mean blood pressure of 60 +/- 7 mm Hg (P less than .05) and a decrease in heart rate of 26 +/- 4 beats/min (P less than .05) (n = 8). Increases in respiratory rate (8 +/- 1 breaths/1 min) and decreases in tidal volume (13 +/- 4 ml) also occurred. These changes were associated with a significant increase in respiratory minute volume (130 +/- 41 ml, P less than .05). Similar cardiorespiratory changes were produced by application of another drug with high affinity for the serotonin 1A receptor, namely B695-40, to the intermediate area of the VSM. Intravenous administration of 8-OH-DPAT in a dose of 100 micrograms/kg mimicked the cardiorespiratory effects of ventral surface application of this agent.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521903 TI - Striatal tachykinin gene expression regulated by interaction of D-1 and D-2 dopamine receptors. AB - The involvement of D-1 and D-2 dopamine (DA) receptors in mediating the DA regulation of preprotachykinin (PPT) gene expression was investigated in rat striatal tissue. Initial experiments determined that acute treatment with the indirect DA agonist methamphetamine induces increases in total PPT messenger RNA, with a maximal effect seen within 3 hr. RNA protection studies established that acute methamphetamine treatment did not affect the relative ratios of the various PPT gene transcripts derived by alternate splicing. The methamphetamine-induced increase in total PPT messenger RNA could be blocked by either a D-1 or a D-2 selective DA antagonist (SCH 23390 and sulpiride, respectively). The D-2 agonist quinpirole, but not the D-1 agonist SKF 38393, mimicked the methamphetamine induced increase. This D-2 agonist-induced increase was dependent upon D-1 receptor tone, as either co-administration of SCH 23390 or pretreatment with the DA synthesis inhibitor alpha-methyltyrosine blocked the quinpirole-induced increase. These studies provide biochemical evidence for an enabling role of D-1 DA receptors in striatal D-2 DA receptor function. PMID- 2521904 TI - Speech perception using combinations of auditory, visual, and tactile information. AB - Four normally-hearing subjects were trained and tested with all combinations of a highly-degraded auditory input, a visual input via lipreading, and a tactile input using a multichannel electrotactile speech processor. The speech perception of the subjects was assessed with closed sets of vowels, consonants, and multisyllabic words; with open sets of words and sentences, and with speech tracking. When the visual input was added to any combination of other inputs, a significant improvement occurred for every test. Similarly, the auditory input produced a significant improvement for all tests except closed-set vowel recognition. The tactile input produced scores that were significantly greater than chance in isolation, but combined less effectively with the other modalities. The addition of the tactile input did produce significant improvements for vowel recognition in the auditory-tactile condition, for consonant recognition in the auditory-tactile and visual-tactile conditions, and in open-set word recognition in the visual-tactile condition. Information transmission analysis of the features of vowels and consonants indicated that the information from auditory and visual inputs were integrated much more effectively than information from the tactile input. The less effective combination might be due to lack of training with the tactile input, or to more fundamental limitations in the processing of multimodal stimuli. PMID- 2521905 TI - Effectiveness of a writing system using a computerized long-range optical pointer and 10-branch abbreviation expansion. AB - Many individuals with limited abilities require specialized technological writing systems. These individuals and the clinicians and engineers who work with them need information regarding the effectiveness of various systems. This study developed a methodology for assessing the effectiveness of a technological writing support system and evaluated its success. The Long-Range Optical Pointer and 10-Branch Abbreviation Expansion System developed at the Trace R&D Center at the University of Wisconsin was used. The study applied a single subject research design: a series of AB replications with naturally-occurring baselines comparing data within subjects across behavior, and across subjects. Behaviors assessed included typing rate, efficiency, and accuracy. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of this system with four individuals with severe physical disabilities and one able-bodied person. Among the data collected, typing rates were found to range from 3 to 15 words per minute, with suspected dependency on familiarity with the system. Discussion highlights the potential benefits of this system and the critical requirement to individually assess a person's needs in order to appropriately select and prescribe these types of technology. The need for further application-oriented single-subject research as well as classical human factors research is emphasized. PMID- 2521906 TI - Aesthetic approach to the rectus abdominis free tissue transfer. AB - Refinements in microsurgery should include not only the selection of an appropriate flap based on the requirements of the recipient defect, but consideration to minimize any donor site morbidity. This concept is analyzed for preoperative assessments, when using any of the variants of the rectus abdominis muscle or musculocutaneous flaps that may be approached via vertical, horizontal, or suprapubic incisions that are chosen to avoid conspicuous scars. Of perhaps greater importance, preservation of abdominal wall integrity is possible, preventing late complications of hernia or eventration by using fascial-sparing techniques. PMID- 2521907 TI - Monitoring functional patency of in situ saphenous vein bypasses: the impact of a surveillance protocol and elective revision. AB - Implementation of a protocol that monitored in situ saphenous vein bypass hemodynamics for low-flow states provided insight into the pathophysiologic characteristics and time course of graft failure. From 1981 to 1988, 250 in situ bypasses to popliteal (n = 83) or tibial (n = 167) arteries were performed in 231 patients. Indications for operation included critical limb ischemia in 232 cases (93%), popliteal aneurysm in 11 cases (4%), and disabling claudication in seven cases (3%). Arterial pressure measurements, continuous-wave Doppler spectral analysis, and duplex ultrasonography were used to assess patency, detect hemodynamic changes indicative of graft stenosis, and localize anatomic hemodynamic changes indicative of graft stenosis. Seventy grafts with correctable anatomic lesions (retained venous valves, graft stenosis, arteriovenous fistula, native vessel atherosclerosis) that decreased graft blood flow or ankle arterial pressure or both were identified. Correction of vein conduit or anastomotic lesions comprised 73 (77%) of the 95 revisions performed. Vein-patch angioplasty of a stenosis was the most common secondary operation performed. Graft revision was highest in the perioperative period (10% at 30 days), decreased to 7% per 6 month interval until 18 months, and was 3% per year thereafter. The primary patency rate of grafts not identified to have a correctable lesion was 86% at 4 years, a level similar to the secondary patency of 81% for grafts requiring one or multiple revisions. The surveillance protocol identified grafts with correctable lesions before thrombosis thereby permitting elective revision of patent grafts. Hemodynamic studies confirmed that a frequent mechanism of late failure of grafts was the development of a low-flow state produced by lesions not amenable to revision. PMID- 2521908 TI - Hypercoagulable states and lower limb ischemia in young adults. AB - This study prospectively evaluates hypercoagulable states in patients under 51 years of age undergoing lower extremity revascularization for ischemia and assesses early outcome after operation. Twenty patients whose ages range from 23 to 50 years (mean 40.8 years) were identified prospectively who underwent lower extremity revascularization and evaluation of hypercoagulability. Fifteen patients were male (75%), 10 were black (50%), six had hypertension (30%), and four were diabetic (20%). All but two were cigarette smokers (90%). Seven aortoiliac procedures and 13 infrainguinal procedures were performed. Six patients had one or more abnormalities of regulatory proteins (protein S deficiency, four; protein C deficiency, three; presence of lupus-like anticoagulant, three; plasminogen deficiency, two). Eight of 17 patients in whom platelet aggregation profiles were obtained showed increased reactivity (47%). Only 4 of 17 patients (24%) were normal when tested for all parameters. Arterial or graft thrombosis developed in four of the 20 patients within 30 days after operation. Hypercoagulability was found in all four patients whose revascularizations failed. A high incidence of hypercoagulable states was found in patients under 51 years of age with lower limb ischemia requiring revascularization. Hypercoagulability may have contributed to early postoperative thrombosis of the vascular procedure. PMID- 2521909 TI - Intraaortic balloon pump placement through Dacron aortofemoral grafts. PMID- 2521910 TI - Mycoplasma pulmonis depresses humoral and cell-mediated responses in mice. AB - Humoral and cell-mediated immune responses to sheep red blood cells (SRBC) were studied in mice infected experimentally with Mycoplasma pulmonis. The hemagglutinating (HA) antibody against SRBC was evaluated at 0, 3, 5, 7, 14, 21 and 28 days postinfection (PI). Antibody tiers during all days PI were depressed significantly (p less than 0.05) in infected mice as compared to noninfected controls. The HA antibody, which is of the IgM class, peaks at day 5 PI. There is no shift in the kinetics of the humoral response in M. pulmonis infected mice. Cellular immune responses were evaluated by a delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) reaction and the lymphocyte transformation technique. Mice were sensitized at 0,3,5,7,14, 21 and 28 days PI with SRBC and challenged by footpad injection of SRBC 7 days later. The DTH reaction measured at 24 hours after challenge was depressed significantly (p less than 0.05) in all infected animals. After a transient enhancement on day 3 PI, the DTH responses remained depressed through day 28 PI. The lymphocyte transformation test showed a significantly (p less than 0.05) depressed response except on days 5 and 7 PI. These results indicate that M. pulmonis infection in mice suppresses the humoral antibody and cell-mediated immune responses. PMID- 2521911 TI - Comparison of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, an immunofluorescence assay and a hemagglutination inhibition assay for detection of antibodies to K papovavirus in mice. AB - The sensitivity of a newly developed enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for detection of antibody to K virus was compared with the sensitivities of an immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and a hemagglutination inhibition assay (HIA). Specific pathogen-free BALB/c RIVM mice, 5 weeks old, were inoculated intraperitoneally with a mouse organ suspension containing 10(4.5) TCID50 of K virus per dose. Control animals were inoculated with a control mouse organ suspension. No clinical signs were observed during the 7 weeks they were followed for the development of serum antibody. The ELISA proved to be the most sensitive of the three assays and demonstrated K virus-specific antibodies as early as 3 days after infection. PMID- 2521912 TI - Blood lactate as a prognosticator of survival following hemorrhage in conscious swine. AB - Arterial blood lactate concentration at the end of fixed volume hemorrhage was evaluated as a predictor of survival in unmedicated chronically instrumented immature swine. Compared to basal values, 8.4 +/- 4.5 mg/dl (means +/- SD, n = 52), hemorrhaged animals (n = 71) with a lactate of 43.9 +/- 37.1 mg/dl lived while animals (n = 65) with a lactate of 106.5 +/- 40.4 mg/dl died. Lactate concentration at the end of hemorrhage successfully predicted survival (81.0%). Prospective evaluation, using a blood lactate concentration of 125 mg/dl (n = 27), showed a predictive success of 81.0%. Arterial plasma lactate concentration at the end of hemorrhage thus may be used to predict survival in the conscious swine. PMID- 2521913 TI - Pyometra in a rhesus monkey secondary to prolonged therapy with medroxyprogesterone acetate. PMID- 2521914 TI - Rupture of guide wire during percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. Mechanics and management. AB - Two rare cases of rupture of the guide wire during percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty are described. Both patients required emergency surgical retrieval of the retained fragments and myocardial revascularization. The possible mechanics of the event and the options in the management are discussed with a review of the literature on this rare complication of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. PMID- 2521915 TI - The influence of temperature on the distribution and intensity of the reaction product in rat muscle fibers obtained with the histochemical method for myosin ATPase. AB - The influence of temperature in the incubation medium on the localization and intensity of myosin ATPase was investigated in striated muscles from the rat using a conventional histochemical technique. It was found that the enzyme reaction was temperature-dependent since the activity in some fibers was raised and in others was depressed by alteration of the incubation temperature. There was no obvious correlation between the temperature sensitivity of ATPase in the muscle fibers and their activity for succinic dehydrogenase. It is proposed that the histochemical method for myosin ATPase can be used for demonstration of isoenzymes in striated muscle fibers. PMID- 2521916 TI - Outflow and overflow of picogram levels of endogenous dopamine and DOPAC from rat striatal slices: improved methodology for studies of stimulus-evoked release and metabolism. AB - An improved method for the rapid and sensitive determination of endogenous dopamine (DA) and 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) in superfusates of single rat striatal slices, using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled with 'coulometric' electrochemical detection (EC), is described. Superfusates are directly injected into an HPLC-EC system following addition of a small aliquot of solubilized ascorbate-oxidase. DA and DOPAC are both separated and quantitated in 3-5 min. Twelve to 15 samples can be analyzed each hour with a nominal detection limit of 1.0 pg per injection for each compound or 10-20 pg/ml of superfusate. The present method was used to study changes in DA and DOPAC outflow and overflow in superfusates of single striatal slices following electrical field stimulation, both in the absence and presence of the catecholamine uptake inhibitor nomifensine. Studies of 1 min superfusate collections clearly showed that electrical field stimulation produced a latent increase in DOPAC as compared to DA. The routine sensitivity and sample throughout of the method allows for studies of both outflow and overflow of DA and DOPAC, as well as studies involving time-dependent overflow of these compounds. PMID- 2521917 TI - Differential glycosylation of polymeric and monomeric IgM. AB - A small fraction of normal IgM is secreted as monomers rather than polymers. We show here that the mu chains of monomeric IgM are glycosylated differently from the mu chains of polymeric IgM and are comparable in their glycosylation to the mu chains from mutant hybridoma cell lines which produce predominantly monomeric IgM. The difference in glycosylation between monomer and polymer mu chains is due to differences in the terminal processing of their oligosaccharides. The glycosylation of the mutant mu chains is not itself responsible for the block in IgM polymer formation. PMID- 2521918 TI - TIMI II and the role of angioplasty in acute myocardial infarction. PMID- 2521919 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide and pulmonary edema. PMID- 2521920 TI - Arginine vasopressin enhances pHi regulation in the presence of HCO3- by stimulating three acid-base transport systems. AB - Growth factors raise intracellular pH (pHi) by stimulating Na+/H+ exchange in the absence of HCO3-. In mutant cells that lack the Na+/H+ exchange activity, this alkalinization does not occur, and the cells do not proliferate without artificial elevation of pHi. It has therefore been widely suggested that an early pHi increase is a necessary signal for mitogenesis. In the presence of HCO3- however, growth factors fail to raise pHi in A431 cells, renal mesangial cells and 3T3 fibroblasts. In mesangial cells, arginine vasopressin (AVP) raises pHi in the absence of HCO3-, but lowers it when HCO3- is present; growth is stimulated under both conditions. We report here that, in the presence of HCO3-, AVP stimulates two potent HCO3- transporters, as well as the Na+/H+ exchanger. These are the Na+-dependent and Na+-independent Cl-/HCO3- exchangers. Our results indicate that AVP causes acidification in the presence of HCO3- because, at the resting pHi, it stimulates Na+-independent Cl-/HCO3- exchange (which lowers pHi) more than it stimulates the sum of Na+/H+ exchange and Na+-dependent Cl-/HCO3- exchange (both of which raise pHi). The stimulation of three acid-base transporters by the growth factor AVP greatly enhances the ability of the cell to regulate pHi. PMID- 2521921 TI - Byelorussia still alarmed by the effects of Chernobyl fallout. PMID- 2521922 TI - A cluster of phosphorylation sites on the cyclic AMP-regulated nuclear factor CREB predicted by its sequence. AB - Cyclic AMP regulates the expression of a number of genes through a conserved promoter element, the CRE1. Moreover, transcriptional induction by cAMP requires the activation of cAMP-dependent protein kinase (protein kinase A). We have previously characterized the cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) in PC12 cells and brain tissue as a nuclear factor, of relative molecular mass 43,000, whose transcriptional efficacy is regulated by protein kinase A phosphorylation. CREB stimulates transcription on binding to the CRE as a dimer. Experiments suggesting that the dimerization and transcriptional efficacy of CREB are each stimulated by phosphorylation at distinct sites prompted us to suggest that CREB is regulated by multiple kinases in vivo. We now report the isolation of a cDNA clone for rat CREB using amino-acid sequence information from purified CREB protein. Sequence analysis of this CREB cDNA predicts a cluster of protein kinase A, protein kinase C and casein kinase II consensus recognition sites near the N terminus of the protein. The proximity of these potential phosphorylation sites to one another indicates that they may interact either positively or negatively to regulate CREB bioactivity. PMID- 2521923 TI - Transcription activation by the adenovirus E1a protein. AB - The adenovirus E1a protein stimulates transcription of a wide variety of viral and cellular genes. It is shown here that E1a has the two functions characteristic of a typical cellular activator: one direct E1a to the promoter, perhaps by interacting with a DNA-bound protein, and the other, an activating region, enables the bound activator to stimulate transcription. PMID- 2521924 TI - Positive selection of CD4-CD8+ T cells in the thymus of normal mice. AB - The diversification of the repertoire of T-cell antigen receptor (TCR) specificities is influenced by at least two selection processes which occur in the thymus. One of these, termed 'negative selection', is required to install a state of tolerance to self-antigens in the T-cell repertoire and is often achieved by clonal deletion. The second type of selection operating in the thymus results in preferential differentiation of T cells that have restriction specificity for thymic major histocompatibility complex glycoproteins, but the mechanisms leading to this selective process are not yet clear. One model used to describe this 'positive selection' proposes that only those T cells with sufficient avidity for the MHC glycoproteins expressed in the thymus are allowed to acquire functional competence. Here we directly investigate the generation of TCR specificities by following the fate of developing V beta 17+ CD4-CD8+ T cells under conditions where one of the main class I-MHC molecules, either H-2K or H 2D, was specifically blocked by in vitro monoclonal antibody treatment. The results show that development of V beta 17+ CD4-CD8+ T cells in the SJL H-2s mouse strain is selectively abrogated by blocking class I-Ks molecules but is unaffected by blocking class I-Ds molecules. These data directly demonstrate that generation of CD4-CD8+ T cells expressing a particular TCR V beta segment can be correlated with the expression of a particular class I-MHC molecule, thereby providing evidence for positive selection. PMID- 2521925 TI - Cure and improvement of renovascular hypertension after percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of renal artery stenosis. AB - In the present study we report our long-term experience in 82 patients with renovascular hypertension (48 with atherosclerotic stenosis, 34 with fibromuscular dysplasia) who were followed up for a mean observation period of 23.6 months after percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) of renal artery stenosis. Our results show a highly significant decrease in mean systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Cure rates were slightly higher in patients with fibromuscular dysplasia (41% cured, 47% improved) than in those with atherosclerosis (23% cured, 54% improved). Kidney function significantly improved in patients with cure, remained stable in those with improvement and worsened in cases classified as unimproved. These results document the good long-term effect of PTA on blood pressure and kidney function in patients with renal artery stenosis. PMID- 2521926 TI - Tryptophan, 5-HTP, 5-HT and 5-HIAA in the cerebrospinal fluid and sexual behavior in male rats. AB - No changes were found in the concentration of tryptophan (Trp), 5 hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) or 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid (5-HIAA) in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of male rats either before sexual activity, immediately after ejaculation of after the postejaculatory refractory period (PEI). Injection of the Trp hydroxylase inhibitor p-chlorophenylalanine (PCPA, 25 or 100 mg/kg i.p. for 3 days) in combination with an injection of the monoamine oxidase inhibitor pargyline (100 mg/kg i.p.) increased the concentration of Trp while decreasing the concentration of 5-HTP, 5-HT and 5-HIAA in the CSF. Furthermore 100 (but not 25) mg/kg PCPA in combination with pargyline caused a significant reduction in the latency to ejaculation. Injection of probenecid (200 mg/kg i.p.), an inhibitor of the transport of 5-HIAA from the CSF, increased the concentration of 5-HIAA in the CSF and slightly prolonged the latency to ejaculation. Sexual activity caused no further increase in CSF 5-HIAA levels in the probenecid-treated rats. Since drug-induced changes in sexual behavior are associated with marked alterations in 5-HT metabolism in the CSF, whereas the changes in the behavior which occur normally are not, these results question the physiological significance of the proposed inhibitory role of 5-HT in male rat sexual behavior. PMID- 2521927 TI - Down patients: extracellular preamyloid deposits precede neuritic degeneration and senile plaques. AB - Using anti-SP28 (a polyclonal antibody to a 28 residue synthetic peptide homologous to the NH2-terminal region of the Alzheimer amyloid beta-protein) to investigate the cerebral cortex of 6 Down patients aged 6-55 y, we found that, besides senile plaques and congophilic vessels, extracellular deposits unrelated to degenerating neurites, tangle-bearing neurons or congophilic vessels were labelled. These deposits were similar to the extracellular deposits previously observed in the cerebral cortex of Alzheimer patients and non-demented individuals. The material accumulated in the deposits did not react with Congo red, thioflavine S or, on some occasions, silver salts and therefore might have been constituted by beta-protein precursors lacking the molecular conformation of amyloid fibrils. Age-related analysis of the cortical lesions in Down patients suggested that such extracellular deposits precede degenerating neurites and evolve into senile plaques. PMID- 2521928 TI - Fiber type composition of muscle units in the cat diaphragm. AB - The fiber type composition of muscle units in the cat diaphragm was examined. As expected, slow-twitch units were composed of type I fibers and fast units were composed of type II fibers. Fast fatigable units were composed of type IIB fibers and fast fatigue resistant units were composed of type IIA fibers. Surprisingly, fast fatigue intermediate units were comprised of both type IIA and IIB fibers. PMID- 2521929 TI - Hepatitis B vaccination. PMID- 2521930 TI - The secondary prevention of low back pain: a controlled study with follow-up. AB - The current investigation studied the effectiveness of a secondary prevention program for nurses with back pain who were deemed at risk for developing a chronic problem. A 2 X 3 repeated measures design was employed with 2 groups and 3 assessment periods. The treatment group received an intervention designed to reduce current problems, but above all to prevent reinjury and minor pains from becoming chronic medical problems, and it included a physical and behavioral therapy package. The control group was placed on a waiting-list. Results indicated that the treatment group had significantly greater improvements than the control group for pain intensity, anxiety, sleep quality and fatigue ratings, observed pain behavior, activities, mood, and helplessness. These differences were generally maintained at the 6 month follow-up. In addition, the treatment group broke a trend for increasing amounts of pain-related absenteeism, while the control group did not. Taken as a whole, the results suggest that a secondary prevention program aimed at altering life style factors may represent an effective method for dealing with musculoskeletal pain problems. PMID- 2521931 TI - Labour pain: correlations with menstrual pain and acute low-back pain before and during pregnancy. AB - Low-back pain is a major component of labour pain in a substantial number of women. The purpose of this study was to determine whether episodes of acute low back pain prior to pregnancy is a predictor of low-back pain during labour. 114 women received the Short-Form McGill Pain Questionnaire (SF-MPQ) during labour and were asked to describe the pain separately for front and back contraction pain or continuous pain. The day after the birth of the child the women were interviewed to determine whether they had (a) a history of episodes of acute low back pain before pregnancy, (b) low-back pain during pregnancy, and (c) low-back pain during menstruation. The results show that episodic low-back pain before pregnancy is not correlated with any aspect of labour pain. However, it is significantly correlated with episodes of low-back pain during pregnancy. In contrast, low-back pain during menstruation is significantly correlated with labour pain scores recorded for back and front contraction pain as well as for continuous back pain. The significant correlation of labour pain with back pain during menstruation suggests that both share a common underlying mechanism. Similarly, the correlation of low-back pain during pregnancy with episodes of acute low-back pain before pregnancy suggests that the strain on back muscles during pregnancy may activate the mechanisms that underlie the usual forms of low back pain. PMID- 2521932 TI - B1 variant of GM2 gangliosidosis in a 12-year-old patient. AB - A girl aged 12 y, 9 mo, suffered from a progressive neurodegenerative disorder marked by ataxia, extrapyramidal symptoms, and convulsions. A skin biopsy showed axonal pathology that emphasized axonal segments enlarged by mitochondria, dense bodies, and lysosomal residual bodies of the membranous cytoplasmic body type. This ultrastructural pathology suggested GM2 gangliosidosis which was shown to be a B1 variant by specific biochemical studies, although conventional techniques had failed to detect GM2 gangliosidosis. The B1 variant is marked by a deficient activity of beta-hexosaminidase A towards one substrate, and by an almost normal activity towards another. Both parents showed a diminished activity towards the sulfated substrate, suggesting a heterozygous state, and almost normal activity with the second substrate type. PMID- 2521933 TI - Mechanisms of endothelial cell ATP depletion after oxidant injury. AB - To investigate mechanisms of ATP depletion in human umbilical vein endothelial cells after oxidant injury, we studied the relationship between DNA damage, activation of the DNA-repairing enzyme poly ADP-ribose polymerase, NAD depletion, and ATP depletion. We found that oxidant stress generated with hypoxanthine xanthine oxidase and glucose-glucose oxidase resulted in profound DNA damage. When endothelial cells were exposed to 25 and 50 mU/ml xanthine oxidase for 60 min, the percentage of double-stranded DNA was significantly reduced (p less than 0.05) to 15.2 +/- 1.2 and 4.6 +/- 0.5%, respectively, compared to 75.7 +/- 3.9% for control cells. When endothelial cells were exposed to 25 and 50 mU/ml glucose oxidase for 60 min, the percentage of double-stranded DNA was significantly (p less than 0.05) reduced to 35.0 +/- 1.5% and 9.9 +/- 7.7%, respectively, compared to 73.2 +/- 2.4% for control cells. ATP and NAD levels declined simultaneously with DNA damage. Because activation of the DNA-repairing enzyme poly ADP-ribose polymerase can consume NAD sufficient to interfere with ATP synthesis, we studied NAD and ATP levels after oxidant injury when ADP-ribose polymerase was inhibited with 3-aminobenzamide and nicotinamide. When poly ADP-ribose polymerase was inhibited, NAD levels remained normal, but ATP depletion was not prevented. We conclude that oxidant injury to human umbilical vein endothelial cells results in profound DNA damage and NAD and ATP depletion. NAD depletion results from activation of poly ADP-ribose polymerase, but this phenomenon is not the mechanism of ATP depletion in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. PMID- 2521934 TI - [Treatment of essential hypertension with felodipine or atenolol as first line therapy. Comparative double-blind randomized study]. AB - This study involved 113 patients (mean age 50 +/- 14 years) with diastolic blood pressure above 95 mmHg. The patients abstained from taking any antihypertensive drug and received a placebo for one week before entering felodipine, a new calcium antagonist (5 mg x2/day for 2 weeks, then 10 mg x2/day) or atenolol (100 mg/day). There was no significant difference between the two treatment groups. Atenolol tended to be more effective in young subjects and felodipine in subjects aged 60 years or more. Heart rate was more reduced by atenolol than by felodipine (P less than 0.01). Undesirable side-effects were recorded by means of an open questionnaire. Their incidence was 23 per cent during the week under placebo and 84 per cent and 80 per cent respectively during treatment with felodipine or atenolol. The most frequent side-effects were oedema of the ankles and headache under felodipine, fatigue and headache under atenolol. Alkaline phosphatase levels were higher in the felodipine group (P less than 0.05), and a slight rise in blood potassium level (0.2 mmol/l) was noted in the atenolol group (P = 0.001), but these values remained within normal limits. PMID- 2521935 TI - [Nosocomial infections caused by Acinetobacter. Epidemiology and therapeutic difficulties]. AB - Nosocomial infections due to Acinetobacter calcoaceticus are not easy to treat particularly in intensive-care and surgical units. Our study included 33 cases of nosocomial infections which developed during 1987 in the surgical intensive care unit and in the urology department. Acinetobacter was isolated from various types of nosocomial infections: urinary tract infections (43 per cent); septicaemia (15 per cent); surgical infections (27 per cent) and respiratory tract infections (15 per cent). Forty eight per cent of the patients received an antibiotic therapy and 52 per cent had no specific treatment. The following beta-lactam antibiotics were studied: ticarcilline, mezlocilline, cefotaxime and ceftazidime, and 83 per cent of the strains were TICRMEZRCTXR (phenotype IV). All the strains except one were imipenem susceptible. The study of aminoglycoside resistance in Acinetobacter showed that 91 per cent of the strains were gentamicin resistant (GENR); 25.5 per cent were gentamicin, and amikacin resistant and tobramycin susceptible (GENR AMKR TOBS, phenotype IV), and 45 per cent were GENR TOBR AMKR (phenotype V). Acinetobacter strains were resistant and 63 per cent pefloxacin resistant. Co-trimoxazole resistant strains represented 65 per cent of the strains. Should major antibiotics be used to treat nosocomial infections due to multiresistant Acinetobacter strains? Are prophylaxis, aseptic and surgical procedures sufficient to control these infections? PMID- 2521936 TI - [The stunned myocardium. A new pathological entity]. AB - A 70 years old woman presented with clinical, electrical and haemodynamic evidence of myocardial infarction. The course of the disease was unusual in that enzyme levels were not increased and the electrocardiogram and ventricular kinetics returned to normal 25 days after the infarction. This syndrome was typical of electrical and mechanical myocardial stunning. The physiopathological theories behind this post-ischaemic transient myocardial dysfunction syndrome and its practical consequences are presented. PMID- 2521937 TI - [Immunohistochemical identification in skin tumor pathology]. AB - Immunohistochemical methods play a very prominent role in the histological diagnosis of skin diseases. Their field of practical application, which initially was limited to patients with signs of autoimmunization, now includes several other nosological entities in dermatological histopathology, and particularly tumours. By using monoclonal or polyclonal antibodies, it is now possible to establish the diagnosis of poorly differentiated tumoral proliferations, such as carcinomas, melanomas, sarcomas, lymphomas, etc., to classify lymphomas according to their differential membrane antigens, or even to determine the histogenetic origin of tumours of unknown nature. PMID- 2521938 TI - [Disclosing bone metastases. Value of the systematic study of various tumor markers]. PMID- 2521939 TI - [Antalgic effect of calcitonin in bone metastases of cancers]. PMID- 2521941 TI - [Intrarectal echography in the evaluation of locoregional extension of female genital cancers]. PMID- 2521940 TI - [Cutaneous necrosis caused by heparin during intravenous heparin treatment]. PMID- 2521943 TI - [Acute anterior poliomyelitis in the mother of a vaccinated child]. PMID- 2521942 TI - [Efficacy of methylprednisolone embolus on the auditory involvement of Cogan syndrome]. PMID- 2521944 TI - [Occurrence of chronic lead poisoning]. PMID- 2521945 TI - [Cardiogenic shock caused by pheochromocytoma]. PMID- 2521946 TI - [Thoracic x-ray computed tomography in the diagnosis of bronchoesophageal fistula]. PMID- 2521947 TI - [Association of bilateral serous otitis, systemic vasculitis and temporal arteritis. Nosological problems]. PMID- 2521948 TI - [Clomipramine dependence in a drug addict. 1st case]. PMID- 2521949 TI - [Nephropathy of rheumatoid purpura]. PMID- 2521950 TI - Identification of covalently linked trimeric and tetrameric D domains in crosslinked fibrin. AB - Following proteolytic conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin, clot assembly commences with formation of double-stranded fibrils that subsequently branch extensively in forming a three-dimensional network. Plasmin digests of fibrin clots that had first been covalently crosslinked by plasma transglutaminase (factor XIIIa) contained multimeric proteolytic fragments composed of crosslinked outer (D) domains of neighboring fibrin molecules. Two of these were larger than the well known "D dimer" fragment and corresponded to D trimers and D tetramers, respectively. Whereas D dimers originate from crosslinked D domains at bimolecular junctions within two-stranded fibrils, D trimers and D tetramers evidently arise through crosslinking of contiguous D domains at trimolecular and tetramolecular junctions or at fibril branch points, respectively. Measurement of the widths of fibrils comprising trifunctional branches in thin fiber networks revealed tetramolecular branch points, which are formed by bifurcation of two double-stranded fibrils. In addition, another type of trifunctional structure, which we term the trimolecular branch point, was composed of three double stranded fibrils. Crosslinking of D domains to form trimers may occur at this type of junction. These findings add to our understanding of the crosslinking arrangements that stabilize fibrin clot structure and the ways that fibrin molecules polymerize to form branches in the clot matrix. PMID- 2521951 TI - Molecular cloning and sequence of cDNA encoding the plasma membrane proton pump (H+-ATPase) of Arabidopsis thaliana. AB - In plants, the transport of solutes across the plasma membrane is driven by a proton pump (H+-ATPase) that produces an electric potential and pH gradient. We have isolated and sequenced a full-length cDNA clone that encodes this enzyme in Arabidopsis thaliana. The protein predicted from its nucleotide sequence encodes 959 amino acids and has a molecular mass of 104,207 Da. The plant protein shows structural features common to a family of cation-translocating ATPases found in the plasma membrane of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, with the greatest overall identity in amino acid sequence (36%) to the H+-ATPase observed in the plasma membrane of fungi. The structure predicted from a hydropathy plot contains at least eight transmembrane segments, with most of the protein (73%) extending into the cytoplasm and only 5% of the residues exposed on the external surface. Unique features of the plant enzyme include diverged sequences at the amino and carboxyl termini as well as greater hydrophilic character in three extracellular loops. PMID- 2521954 TI - The role and mechanism of action of 13-cis-retinoic acid in the treatment of severe (nodulocystic) acne. PMID- 2521952 TI - Characterization of cDNAs encoding human leukosialin and localization of the leukosialin gene to chromosome 16. AB - We describe the isolation and characterization of cDNA clones encoding human leukosialin, a major sialoglycoprotein of human leukocytes. Leukosialin is very closely related or identical to the sialophorin molecule, which is involved in T cell proliferation and whose expression is altered in Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome (WAS), an X chromosome-linked immunodeficiency disease. Using a rabbit anti-serum to leukosialin, a cDNA clone was isolated from a lambda gt11 cDNA library constructed from human peripheral blood cells. This lambda gt11 clone was used to isolate longer cDNA clones that correspond to the entire coding sequence of leukosialin. DNA sequence analysis reveals three domains in the predicted mature protein. The extracellular domain is enriched for Ser, Thr, and Pro and contains four contiguous 18-amino acid repeats. The transmembrane and intracellular domains of the human leukosialin molecule are highly homologous to the rat W3/13 molecule. RNA gel blot analysis reveals two polyadenylylated species of 2.3 and 8 kilobases. Southern blot analysis suggests that human leukosialin is a single copy gene. Analysis of monochromosomal cell hybrids indicates that the leukosialin gene is not X chromosome linked and in situ hybridization shows leukosialin is located on chromosome 16. These findings demonstrate that the primary mutation in WAS is not a defect in the structural gene for leukosialin. PMID- 2521955 TI - Experience with 80 rectus abdominis free-tissue transfers. AB - Eighty patients receiving rectus abdominis free-tissue transfers are discussed. The operations were performed between July of 1983 and December of 1986. Specifically, the patients were followed in the clinic to determine the extent and degree of donor-site morbidity. Sixty-two flaps were transferred to the lower extremities, 15 to the head and neck, 2 to the arm, and 1 was placed intrathoracically. Osteomyelitis was the most common indication for free-muscle transfer in 33 patients, soft-tissue defects in 26, and facial soft-tissue augmentation in 14 patients. In the 80 rectus abdominis free-muscle transfers, there were 9 local complications. A seroma occurred in 4 patients, wound infection in 3, and an abdominal wall hernia occurred in 1 patient. The success rate for muscle transfer was 93 percent with six flap losses. Because there is a low incidence of donor-site complications, the surgical dissection is relatively easy, and the relative consistency and size of the deep inferior epigastric pedicle are good, the rectus abdominis muscular unit is now one of the most frequently used free-tissue transfers at our institution. PMID- 2521953 TI - Regulation of duodenal bicarbonate secretion during stress by corticotropin releasing factor and beta-endorphin. AB - Proximal duodenal mucosal bicarbonate secretion is an important factor in the pathogenesis of duodenal ulcer disease. To examine the central nervous system regulation of duodenal bicarbonate secretion, an animal model was developed that allowed cerebroventricular and intravenous injections as well as collection of duodenal perfusates in awake, freely moving rats. The hypothalamic peptide corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) and stress (physical restraint) significantly stimulated duodenal bicarbonate secretion. These responses were abolished by pretreatment of the animals with the CRF receptor antagonist alpha helical CRF-(9-41), hypophysectomy, and naloxone. In contrast, blockade of autonomic efferents by surgical and pharmacological means did not prevent the stimulatory effects of stress and CRF. Intravenous, but not cerebroventricular, administration of beta-endorphin that produced plasma concentrations of beta endorphin that were similar to those produced by exogenous CRF and stress significantly stimulated duodenal bicarbonate secretion. These results indicate that endogenous CRF released during stress and exogenously administered CRF stimulate duodenal bicarbonate secretion by release of beta-endorphin from the pituitary, thus, demonstrating a functional hypothalamus-pituitary-gut axis. PMID- 2521956 TI - In vitro holding and PLD repair. I. On the contribution of mitotic non-quiescence in plateau-phase Chinese hamster V79 cells. AB - The Stationary or Plateau-Phase of commonly used rodent cell lines like the V79 are often assumed to be quiescent (non-mitotic). An analysis of cell turnover in V79 plateau-phase cultures through BrUdR-incorporation combined with FUdR-block and light exposure (S-phase cytocide) revealed such cultures to be in a state of kinetic equilibrium. Even when the state of maximal permissible density was acquired, at least 50% of the population of cells were cycling within the time for one population doubling. Attempts at holding the cells from cycling (through nutrient-depletion and serum-privation) were unsuccessful, although the turnover rate was reduced. Our assays for X-irradiated clonogenic survivors after attempted holding combined with delayed plating (DP) showed differences in the survival curves for exponentially growing and confluent cultures. Elimination of cycling cells by S-phase cytocide removed these differences. Since a significant fraction of plateau-phase cells are not mitotically quiescent (Q), one must eliminate the proliferating (P) fraction if one wishes to examine the PLDR of the Q cells. For V79 cells, removal of the P cells eliminates the higher survival (usually interpreted as Q cell PLDR) of plateau-phase cells. PMID- 2521958 TI - Information-based rehabilitation for Third World disability. AB - Rehabilitation and special education are usually conceived in terms of methods, gadgets, locations and professions. Generalist planners often have difficulty grasping the essentials of the field, while resource constraints in Third World countries severely limit the extent to which these four features may become widely available. Reconceptualization of the field as information-based rehabilitation opens new, low-cost possibilities for empowering disabled people and their families and communities. A basic approach is described from Pakistan, for methodical dissemination of appropriate information, with feedback, evaluation and on-going information systems. Some comparative merits of various media are discussed, together with the values inherent in information and some constraints on information-based rehabilitation. PMID- 2521957 TI - Point mutational inactivation of the retinoblastoma antioncogene. AB - The retinoblastoma (Rb) antioncogene encodes a nuclear phosphoprotein, p105-Rb, that forms protein complexes with the adenovirus E1A and SV40 large T oncoproteins. A novel, aberrant Rb protein detected in J82 bladder carcinoma cells was not able to form a complex with E1A and was less stable than p105-Rb. By means of a rapid method for the detection of mutations in Rb mRNA, this defective Rb protein was observed to result from a single point mutation within a splice acceptor sequence in J82 genomic DNA. This mutation eliminates a single exon and 35 amino acids from its encoded protein product. PMID- 2521959 TI - Identification of 5-hydroxytryptamine1D binding sites in human brain membranes. AB - High-affinity, specific 3H-5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) binding was analyzed in membrane homogenates of human frontal cortex, caudate, and globus pallidus. 5 HT1A and 5-HT1C binding sites were pharmacologically blocked using 100 nM 8 hydroxy-N,N-dipropyl-2-aminotetralin (8-OH-DPAT) and 100 nM mesulergine, respectively. The majority of 5-HT1 sites remained in each of the three brain regions under these conditions. The pattern of nucleotide interactions with these binding sites (GppNHp = GTP = GDP greater than GMP = adenine nucleotides) suggests a possible linkage to a G protein. RU 24969 competition studies confirmed the absence of 5-HT1B binding sites in human cortex, caudate, and globus pallidus. Drug interactions with putative 5-HT1D binding sites in bovine caudate membranes correlated significantly with their affinities for human membrane recognition sites labeled by 3H-5-HT in the presence of 100 nM 8-OH-DPAT + 100 nM mesulergine. We conclude that the majority of 3H-5-HT labeled recognition sites in human cortex, caudate, and globus pallidus represent 5-HT1D binding sites. PMID- 2521960 TI - Effects of chronic treatment with selective and nonselective antagonists on the subtypes of dopamine receptors. AB - The effects of chronic blockade of D-1, D-2, or both subtypes of dopamine receptors on the densities and properties of the D-1 and D-2 subtypes of dopamine receptors were measured in rat brain. Animals were treated with 14 daily injections (i.p.) of the D-1-selective antagonist SCH-23390, the D-2-selective antagonist sulpiride, the nonselective antagonist fluphenazine, or vehicle. Serial 32-microns horizontal sections that included the caudate putamen were cut and alternately assigned to assays for D-1 or D-2 receptors. D-1 receptors were labeled with 3H-SKF-83566 or 3H-SCH-23390, and D-2 receptors were labeled with 3H spiroperidol. Scatchard analysis was performed on the saturation data measured in the head of the caudate putamen to obtain estimates of receptor density. As expected, administration of the D-1-selective ligand SCH-23390 resulted in an increase in the density of D-1 receptors by approximately 47% and had no significant effect on the density of D-2 receptors. Similarly, administration of the D-2-selective ligand sulpiride resulted in an increase in the density of D-2 receptors by 25% and had no significant effect on the density of D-1 receptors. Thus the subtypes of dopamine receptors appear to be independently regulated after selective blockade. In contrast to the effects observed with selective antagonists, the results obtained with fluphenazine were more complex. Administration of the relatively nonselective antagonist fluphenazine resulted in an increase in the density of D-2 receptors by 51% but had no significant effect on the density of D-1 receptors.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521961 TI - Endogenous dopamine lowers the dopamine D2 receptor density as measured by [3H]raclopride: implications for positron emission tomography of the human brain. PMID- 2521962 TI - Beta-endorphin in experimental canine spinal ischemia. AB - Plasma and cerebrospinal fluid beta-endorphin concentrations were radioimmunologically assayed in dogs subjected to spinal cord ischemia induced by infrarenal aortic ligature and in control sham-operated dogs. Plasma beta endorphin levels rose significantly following surgery in control dogs but were unaffected by spinal ischemia. On the other hand, a significant increase in cerebrospinal fluid beta-endorphin concentration occurred after spinal ischemia, while surgical stress had no significant effect. Thus, the origins of plasma and cerebrospinal fluid beta-endorphin may be different, with the former secreted from the hypophysis and the latter from nervous tissue. Observed changes in cerebrospinal fluid beta-endorphin concentration could be related to the ischemic lesion of nervous tissue while the changes in plasma levels may reflect general stressing factors such as the surgery in our experiments. PMID- 2521963 TI - The inhibitory effect of cyclosporine on the nuclear proliferative response to a variety of T cell activators. AB - Previous work has demonstrated that cyclosporine inhibits generation of the cytoplasmic activation signal. The present study shows that the drug also diminishes the proliferative response of isolated nuclei upon phytohemagglutinin, OKT3, or mixed lymphocyte culture stimulation. Following in vitro action of normal human peripheral blood lymphocytes, nuclei isolated by homogenization and differential centrifugation were tested for 3H-thymidine incorporation upon stimulation with cytoplasmic fractions derived from homologous or heterologous activators. Nuclei isolated from CsA-treated cells showed significantly reduced responses to activation by cytoplasmic fractions from cells stimulated by all three agents with inhibition of OKT3 greater than MLC greater than PHA activation. This inhibition was less than the effect of CsA to disrupt generation of the activation signal by cytoplasmic fractions. Exogenous addition of Interleukin 2 to PHA-treated cells almost completely overcame the inhibitory effect of CsA on both nuclei and cytoplasm. A direct effect was documented by incubation of isolated nuclei with CsA prior to addition of a cytoplasmic activator and assessment of 3H-thymidine incorporation. The degree of direct nuclear inhibition by CsA was proportionate to the intranuclear drug concentration: cells displaying greater than 25% inhibition had higher intranuclear CsA concentrations (126 +/- 49 ng/ml) than unaffected cells (43 +/- 3 ng/ml) (P less than 0.005). These data suggested direct effects of CsA on nuclear proliferative responses, probably related to intranuclear drug binding and independent of its action to inhibit cytoplasmic transduction of the activation signal. PMID- 2521964 TI - Human suppressor T cells induced in vitro with an autologous renal allograft derived T cell line. II. Activity and specificity of a soluble suppressor factor. AB - Human suppressor T cells induced by autologous mixed lymphocyte reaction (AMLR) using fresh responder PBL from a renal transplant recipient and an autologous irradiated antidonor CTL line (EE-1) established from a biopsy of the patient's own allograft were studied for the production of suppressor factors. The suppressor cell lines propagated (designated TsEE) were capable of inhibiting the in vitro generation of proliferative and cytotoxic responses of responder cells from the recipient or other individuals who shared HLA-B7 with TsEE cells, regardless of the stimulatory cell phenotype. Coculture of TsEE cells with the autologous irradiated EE-1 inducer cell line in vitro yielded a soluble factor (designated TsEEF) capable of inhibiting the generation of MLR and CTL responses, as well as mitogen-induced proliferative responses to PHA and PWM in an HLA unrestricted manner. TsEEF also inhibited the replication of lymphoblastoid T cell lines (Molt-4 and HSB) but not B cell lines (SB and JC-EBV) or PBL stimulated with the B cell mitogen LPS. Control supernatants obtained from each of the cells used to generate TsEE in AMLR (i.e., EE-PBL and the EE-1 line) cultured alone or together for 48 hr demonstrated no suppressive activity in any of these test systems. TsEEF was nontoxic for lymphoid cells, was nondialyzable (greater than 12kDa), did not act by interfering with IL-1 or IL-2 utilization, and was negative for TNF and IFN-gamma activity. Functionally, the suppressive activity of TsEEF was dose-dependent, did not shift MLR kinetics, and could be absorbed by T cells. T cells incubated with TsEEF for 4 hr were unresponsive to subsequent mitogen or MLR stimulation. These findings indicate that, whereas T suppressor cell lines propagated from the circulation of a stable renal transplant recipient demonstrate class I HLA restriction, the activity of their soluble products is not HLA-restricted, and functionally inhibits T cell proliferation. PMID- 2521965 TI - In vivo activity of mixed lymphocyte response-generated suppressor cells and ability to prolong cardiac allograft survival in rats. PMID- 2521966 TI - Management and prognostic significance of hypercalcemia in renal cell carcinoma. AB - A retrospective study was conducted to evaluate the prognostic significance of hypercalcemia associated with renal cell carcinoma and the efficacy of different treatment modalities. Twenty-seven of 160 (16.8%) patients with renal cell carcinoma were found to have tumor-induced hypercalcemia: 24 had Stage IV disease, 1 Stage III disease, and 2 Stage I disease. There was no evidence of bone metastasis in 13 of 27 (48%) patients. A total of 89 episodes of acute hypercalcemia were treated: 36 episodes resulted in a complete response ([CR] calcium levels returning to normal), 24 partial response ([PR] calcium decrease greater than 1 mg/dL, but above normal) and 29 negligible response ([NR] calcium decrease less than 1 mg/dL) to treatment modalities used. One patient with Stage I disease and 3 with Stage IV disease underwent nephrectomies resulting in 2 CR and 1 PR. There was a complete response (CR) to mithramycin in 7 of 10 (70%) acute hypercalcemic episodes, to furosemide and mithramycin in 12 of 20 (60%), to steroids or furosemide and steroids in 3 of 7 (43%), to hydration in 4 of 13 (31%), and to furosemide in 7 of 25 (28%). The response rates to phosphates, indomethacin, and calcitonin were low but involved a small number of patients. Survival in 24 patients with Stage IV disease was 5-239 days (av 87.3 days). There was essentially no survival difference between patients who had an initial calcium elevation less than or greater than 13 mg/dL. We conclude that mithramycin is more effective in controlling acute hypercalcemia secondary to renal cell carcinoma than furosemide or hydration. Steroids appear to be effective but our experience was limited. Surprisingly, the degree of calcium elevation did not show a significant correlation with survival. PMID- 2521968 TI - [Anticarcinogenic action of vitamins PP and B6 in the natulan initiation of malignant growth in mice]. AB - Parenteral administration of vitamins PP and B6 at the initiation stage of natulan-induced carcinogenesis was shown to significantly inhibit formation of lung adenomas. The preventive effect was found to depend on treatment schedule. Biochemical aspects of anticarcinogenic action of the vitamins require special investigation. PMID- 2521967 TI - [Effect of prodigiozan on the antibody-dependent cytotoxicity of neutrophils in chronic myeloid leukemia]. AB - Decreased levels of neutrophils, Fc- and C3-expressing receptors, oxygen dependent metabolism as well as antibody-dependent cytotoxicity of these cells to target cells were identified in advanced chronic myeloid leukemia, particularly, in blast crisis. Treatment with cytostatic agents resulted in further decrease in said parameters. However, treatment with prodigiozan was followed by improvement in cell functioning. PMID- 2521969 TI - [The diagnosis of malignant skin melanomas on an outpatient basis]. AB - The analysis of the case history and clinical data on 509 patients with skin melanoma established the causes of unjustified extension in terms of examination at general health establishments. Relevant recommendations are given. PMID- 2521970 TI - [Treatment results in locally disseminated rectal cancer (based on data from the Armenian SSR)]. AB - Data on rectal cancer morbidity in the Armenian SSR for the last two decades are presented and the causes of high-frequency incidence of advanced tumors are analysed. The results of combined and complex treatment using different preoperative procedures are discussed. High effectiveness of preoperative medium- and large-fractionated irradiation was shown, particularly, in application of cell cycle synchronizing effect of 5-fluorouracil treatment. PMID- 2521972 TI - Prognostic value of early exercise stress testing after successful coronary angioplasty: importance of the degree of revascularization. AB - The prognostic value of early exercise testing after successful coronary angioplasty was determined in 196 and 225 consecutive patients with single-vessel and multivessel coronary disease, respectively, who underwent a symptom-limited exercise test within 30 days of the procedure. The incidence of exercise-induced ST segment depression greater than or equal to 1 mm was significantly greater in patients with multivessel versus single-vessel disease (27% versus 14%; p less than 0.005) and in patients with multivessel coronary disease who had incomplete versus complete revascularization (36% versus 10%; p less than 0.001). An abnormal exercise ECG result was associated with a significantly increased risk of cardiac events in patients with multivessel disease but not in patients with single-vessel disease. Exercise-induced angina occurred in a small and similar proportion of patients with single and multivessel coronary disease (8% versus 12%). The presence of exercise-induced angina was associated with a higher incidence of follow-up cardiac events in patients with multivessel disease and incomplete revascularization (52% versus 33%; p less than 0.05). Exercise duration was significantly less in patients with multivessel disease who had a subsequent cardiac event compared with that in patients who did not have such an event (458 +/- 168 versus 519 +/- 156 seconds; p = 0.01). Thus an abnormal exercise ECG finding within 1 month of successful coronary angioplasty is predictive of subsequent cardiac events in patients who have multivessel disease. The prognostic content of the test might be further improved if the test were performed several months after the procedure when the risk of restenosis is greatest. PMID- 2521971 TI - Relationship between plasma atrial natriuretic peptide concentrations and cardio thoracic ratio during the early neonatal period. AB - Twenty-seven neonates were examined at 2.6 +/- 1.5 hours of age (stage 1) and 21 +/- 4.9 hours of age (stage 2) to clarify the relationship between cardio thoracic ratio (CTR) on chest roentgenograms and plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) concentration. Among 22 infants who showed elevated plasma ANP, 14 had gained body weight (group A), while 8 other infants had lost weight (group B) at stage 2. The remaining 5 infants had decreased plasma ANP concentrations combined with weight loss at stage 2 (group C). All infants of group B had a patent ductus arteriosus. The plasma ANP concentration and CTR of groups A and B increased during the study period, while those of group C decreased. A linear relation was found between plasma ANP concentration and CTR in all cases (p less than 0.02). This study indicates that increased plasma levels of ANP are associated with an increased CTR. PMID- 2521973 TI - Plasma atrial natriuretic polypeptide as an index of left ventricular end diastolic pressure in patients with chronic left-sided heart failure. AB - To evaluate the relationship between plasma atrial natriuretic polypeptide (ANP), hemodynamic parameters, and plasma catecholamines and, in addition, to determine whether circulating ANP is metabolized in the pulmonary circulation, plasma concentrations of ANP were determined in 40 patients with chronic left-sided heart failure. After at least 30 minutes of bed rest with the patient in the supine position, blood samples were drawn simultaneously from both the main pulmonary artery (mPA) and the ascending aorta (Ao) before administration of contrast medium. The plasma ANP concentrations significantly decreased from the mPA to the Ao (135.3 +/- 18.1 pg/ml vs 127.4 +/- 19.4 pg/ml; mean +/- SEM, p less than 0.05). The plasma ANP level in the mPA correlated with the plasma norepinephrine level in the Ao (r = 0.71, p less than 0.01), right atrial pressure (r = 0.34, p less than 0.05), mean pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (r = 0.829, p less than 0.001), and left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP) (r = 0.88, p less than 0.001). Of the various hemodynamic parameters and plasma catecholamine concentrations in the Ao, only LVEDP was found to be an independent and significant predictor of plasma ANP levels in the mPA. These results indicate that ANP released from the heart is regulated mainly by preload (LVEDP) in cases of left-sided heart failure and that circulating ANP is metabolized in the pulmonary circulation. In conclusion, the plasma ANP concentration may be a useful noninvasive index of LVEDP in patients with chronic left-sided heart failure. PMID- 2521974 TI - Utility of Doppler color flow imaging for identification of femoral arterial complications of cardiac catheterization. AB - Doppler color flow and two-dimensional ultrasonographic images of the femoral region were obtained in 25 patients referred for suspected vascular complications of cardiac catheterization. Five patients had normal findings, while 23 abnormalities were noted in 20 patients, including seven femoral arteriovenous fistulae, 12 femoral pseudoaneurysms, and two patients with both femoral arteriovenous fistulas and pseudoaneurysms. Operation confirmed the abnormalities diagnosed by color flow examination in 15 of 20 patients. Three patients refused operation and one was not felt to be a surgical candidate due to high anesthetic risk. One patient died preoperatively and postmortem examination confirmed the color flow diagnosis. Etiologies of the arterial complications included percutaneous aortic valvuloplasty (6), coronary angioplasty (4), and arterial or both arterial and venous catheterization (10). Doppler color flow imaging is a reliable technique for identification of vascular complications following catheterization procedures. PMID- 2521975 TI - Doppler assessment of left ventricular diastolic filling during brief coronary occlusion. AB - To assess left ventricular diastolic filling in patients with single-vessel coronary artery disease, Doppler-derived transmitral velocity was studied in 22 normal subjects and in 15 patients with isolated proximal stenosis of the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) and normal systolic function of the left ventricle. Transmitral velocity was recorded before and after balloon inflation during coronary angioplasty. At baseline the transmitral velocity pattern in patients with LAD stenosis differed from that of normal subjects with a significant (p at least less than 0.05) decrease in the early diastolic filling phase (E area 0.094 +/- 0.022 m in normal subjects vs 0.078 +/- 0.008 m in patients) and an increase in the late diastolic filling phase (A area 0.034 +/- 0.007 m vs 0.042 +/- 0.008 m). Correspondingly the ratio E area/A area decreased (2.7 +/- 0.51 vs 1.9 +/- 0.4) and the ratio A area/total area increased (0.28 +/- 0.04 vs 0.35 +/- 0.05). During coronary occlusion the E area and the ratio E area/A area decreased further, whereas the A area and the ratio A area/total area increased. The results suggest that patients with single-vessel disease and normal systolic function often exhibit an altered pattern of transmitral velocity even in the absence of overt ischemia, and that during acute regional ischemia early diastolic filling is further compromised with compensatory enhancement of the late diastolic filling phase. PMID- 2521977 TI - Quantitative exercise thallium-201 scintigraphy for predicting angina recurrence after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. AB - The aim of this prospective study was to determine the value of quantitative exercise thallium-201 scintigraphy for predicting short-term outcome in patients after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA). Quantitative exercise thallium-201 scintigraphy was performed 2.2 +/- 1.2 weeks after successful PTCA in 68 asymptomatic patients, 64 (94%) of whom had class III or IV angina before the procedure. Clinical follow-up was obtained in all patients at a mean of 10 +/- 2 months and all were followed for at least 6 months; 45 patients (66%) remained asymptomatic during follow-up and 23 (34%) developed recurrent class III or IV angina at a mean of 2.6 +/- 1.2 months. Multivariate analysis of 22 clinical, angiographic and exercise test variables revealed that thallium-201 redistribution, any thallium scan abnormality, presence of a distal stenosis and treadmill time were the only significant predictors of recurrent angina after PTCA. Using a stepwise discriminant function model, thallium-201 redistribution was the only significant independent predictor. Despite its prognostic value relative to other variables as a predictor, thallium redistribution at 2 weeks after PTCA was only detected in 9 of the 23 patients (39%) who subsequently developed recurrent angina, although only 2 of the 45 patients (9%) who remained asymptomatic during follow-up demonstrated thallium-201 redistribution at the time of early testing. After repeat angiography was performed in 17 of the 23 patients with recurrent angina, 14 (82%) demonstrated restenosis and 3 (18%) had worse narrowing distal to or remote from the site of dilatation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521976 TI - Variables predictive of good functional outcome following thrombolytic therapy in the Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction phase II (TIMI II) pilot study. AB - Before commencing the randomized Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction phase II (TIMI II) study, 370 patients were administered intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA) within 4 hours of onset of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and assigned to 2-hour (immediate) percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (n = 33), 18- to 48-hour (delayed) angioplasty (n = 288) or no angioplasty (n = 49) in a nonrandomized, observational pilot study. Left ventricular ejection fraction at rest and during exercise was assessed by gated equilibrium radionuclide ventriculography at hospital discharge and again at 6 weeks. At hospital discharge, ejection fraction averaged 50% at rest and 56% at peak exercise. At 6-week follow-up, ejection fraction averaged 50% at rest and 53% at peak exercise. At 6-week follow-up, resting ejection fraction average 49% in the 2-hour angioplasty group, 49% in the 18- to 48-hour angioplasty group and 55% in the no-angioplasty group. Variables independently predicting "good functional outcome" at 6-week follow-up (survival with resting ejection fraction greater than equal to 50% and no decrease with exercise) in the 18- to 48-hour angioplasty group were fewer leads with ST-segment elevation greater than or equal to 0.1 mV, younger age, rapid normalization during rt-PA infusion of ST segments or dramatic relief of chest pain, absence of arrhythmias within the first 24 hours of treatment initiation, no prior infarction and not a cigarette smoker at entry. Thus, the TIMI II pilot study demonstrates that most patients with AMI of less than or equal to 4-hour duration treated with rt-PA have good ventricular function after AMI.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521978 TI - Diagnostic body surface potential map patterns in left ventricular hypertrophy during PQRST. AB - Body surface potential maps were recorded from 117 thoracic sites and 3 limb electrodes in 173 normal subjects older than 30 years of age and 122 patients with clinically "pure" left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy. Typical LV hypertrophy map patterns were identified at successive instants during the PQRST waveform by removing from sequential LV hypertrophy maps the corresponding normal variability range at each electrode site. The presence in individual patients of 1 or more patterns typical in time and location of LV hypertrophy allowed retrospective assignment to the LV hypertrophy group. The most consistent discriminant patterns were excessive negative voltages in the anterior torso with reciprocal excess of positive voltages in the upper right chest during the second half of the P wave, excessive negative voltages in the lower right anterior torso at mid-QRS and excessive negative voltages in the left precordium with reciprocal excess of positive voltages in the upper right chest throughout ST-T. Best classification results were achieved with ST-T features, followed by features from the P wave, the QRS waveform and the PR segment. Cumulative use of ST-T and P features yielded a specificity of 94% with a sensitivity of 88%. Little improvement was obtained by the addition of QRS and PR information. The discriminant map criteria were applied to body surface potential maps from 169 new subjects (77 normal subjects ages 20 to 30 years and 92 patients with complicated LV hypertrophy). Little modification in specificity (93%) and sensitivity (90%) was observed. The performance of commonly used standard lead criteria was also tested.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2521980 TI - Coronary angioplasty and thrombolysis for acute myocardial infarction: is two a crowd? PMID- 2521979 TI - Hemodynamic and hormone changes during induced ventricular tachycardia secondary to coronary artery disease. PMID- 2521981 TI - Profuse diaphoresis relieved by coronary angioplasty. PMID- 2521983 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF): a preliminary report of cervical heart transplant model for study. AB - The allograft canine heart transplanted to the neck of a recipient provides a useful model for direct measurement of atrionatriuretic factor (ANF) in the single inflow artery and the single outflow vein (pulmonary artery). The normal peripheral blood levels of ANF in the dog ranged from 25-77 pg/ml, whereas the post-transplant level in transplant outflow blood was 2262 pg/ml 30 minutes after transplant resuscitation. The cervical heart transplant model is applicable to a variety of ANF investigations. PMID- 2521982 TI - Long-term oral therapy of congestive heart failure with phosphodiesterase inhibitors. AB - The existing management of severe chronic congestive heart failure carries a dismal prognosis. Mortality over 6 months is 50% by some estimates. This fact, coupled with increasing concern for the safety and efficacy of the digitalis glycosides, has stimulated an intense search for new oral cardiotonic agents suitable for chronic administration. Despite the ability of many phosphodiesterase inhibiting agents to affect profound hemodynamic improvements acutely after oral or intravenous administration, none of the four agents here reviewed in 30 clinical trials has been adequately proven to provide benefit over conventional long-term therapy of severe heart failure. The four drugs to have undergone long-term clinical trials are amrinone, milrinone, enoximone (MDL 17043), and piroximone (MDL 19,025). For amrinone, inefficacy was revealed through carefully designed, placebo-controlled studies despite initial enthusiasm generated by open uncontrolled trials. Enoximone has suffered rapid attenuation of its hemodynamic effectiveness in most studies, and piroximone failed in its only long-term trial. Therefore, final judgment on most of these agents must await completion of controlled clinical trials, and any initial optimism stimulated by the current uncontrolled studies should be met with reservation. PMID- 2521984 TI - Influence of fiber type and muscle source on Ca2+ sensitivity of rat fibers. AB - This study investigated the influence of muscle source and fiber type on the calcium sensitivity of skinned rat skeletal muscle fibers from predominantly slow muscles [soleus (SOL) and adductor longus (AL)], mixed muscle [posterior gracilis (PG)], and predominantly fast-twitch muscle [extensor digitorum longus (EDL)]. Fibers were characterized histochemically and by one-dimensional protein gel electrophoresis, and calcium-tension relationships were determined. Fiber type and muscle source had significant effects on the negative log of the calcium concentration associated with half-maximal tension (pCa1/2). Slow-twitch fibers had larger values of pCa1/2 than did fast-twitch fibers. Slow-twitch fibers from the predominantly slow muscles, SOL and AL, had similar values of pCa1/2 but slightly smaller values than from the mixed muscle, PG. Fast-glycolytic (FG) fibers from the predominantly fast muscle, EDL, had a higher pCa1/2 than fibers from the mixed fiber type muscle, PG. There were no differences between the pCa1/2 associated with FG and fast-oxidative-glycolytic fibers. PMID- 2521985 TI - Evidence for functional thromboxane A2-prostaglandin H2 receptors in human placenta. AB - The aim of this investigation was to study the role of thromboxane (TX) A2 in the modulation of human fetoplacental vascular resistance. By use of the isolated perfused fetoplacental cotyledon, TX generation (measured by direct radioimmunoassay of TXB2) was demonstrated on the fetal side of the placental circulation. The stable TX mimetic U-46619 caused a dose-dependent increase in perfusion pressure that was inhibited by the TX receptor antagonist SQ 29548. To further characterize the putative TXA2-prostaglandin H2 receptors, binding studies were performed in placental membranes using [3H]SQ 29548. Kinetic analysis revealed rapid and reversible specific binding of [3H]SQ 29548. Saturation binding and Scatchard analysis indicated radioligand binding to a single class of receptors (dissociation constant, 9.11 +/- 0.60 nM; receptor density, 103 +/- 8 fmol/mg protein, n = 4). Prostaglandins D2, E1, E2, F2a, and I2 did not inhibit the specific binding of [3H]SQ 29548 at concentrations less than or equal to 10 microM. This study demonstrates that the human placenta produces and releases TXA2, which can act locally via specific receptor sites to constrict the fetoplacental vasculature. PMID- 2521987 TI - [The use of pulse oximetry in the perioperative monitoring of pediatric patients at risk using the surgical correction of a laparoschisis as an example]. AB - Pulse oximetry has been recently introduced into anesthetic practice as an additional monitoring technique. In contrast to other methods (ECG, inspection, auscultation, blood gas analysis), it immediately detects an impending lack of oxygen, whatever its cause. Therefore, especially in pediatric risk patients, precious time can be saved. This is illustrated during the perioperative period for correction of gastroschisis. Even with a critical look at the mishaps of this method - overestimation of true O2 saturation (sO2) and partial O2 saturation (psO2) and overestimation of hemoglobin derivatives--pulse oximetry seems superior to the established monitoring techniques in the perioperative period. Therefore, we believe pulse oximetry to be an useful tool for additional monitoring, especially in pediatric risk patients. It is a suitable continuous and noninvasive in vivo technique for the early detection of hypooxygenation. Due to the special disadvantages of the method, we consider it advisable to perform control measurements with a CO-oximeter from time to time. PMID- 2521986 TI - Central effects of beta-endorphins on glucose homeostasis in the conscious dog. AB - The effects of centrally administered beta-endorphins on glucose homeostasis in the conscious dog were studied. Intracerebroventricular administration of beta endorphin (0.2 mg/h) caused a 70% increase in plasma glucose. The mechanism of the hyperglycemia was twofold: there was an early increase in glucose production and a late inhibition of glucose clearance. These changes are explained by marked increases in plasma epinephrine (30-fold) and norepinephrine (6-fold) that occurred during infusion of beta-endorphin. Central administration of beta endorphin also resulted in increased levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone and cortisol. In addition there was an increase in plasma insulin but no increase in plasma glucagon. Intravenous administration of beta-endorphin did not alter glucose homeostasis. Intracerebroventricular administration of acetylated beta endorphin did not perturb glucose kinetics or any of the hormones that changed during infusion of the unacetylated peptide. We conclude that beta-endorphin acts centrally to cause hyperglycemia by stimulating sympathetic outflow and the pituitary-adrenal axis. Acetylation of beta-endorphin abolishes the in vivo activity of the peptide. PMID- 2521988 TI - General anesthesia during percutaneous transluminary coronary angioplasty for acute myocardial infarction: results of a randomized controlled clinical trial. AB - Acutely ill patients with myocardial infarction may require immediate cardiac catheterization and coronary angioplasty to achieve myocardial reperfusion. To determine the feasibility of using general anesthesia under these circumstances, a randomized clinical trial was performed. Of 50 patients, 25 received anesthesia and 25 receive intravenous sedation. There were transient increases in heart rate and blood pressure after tracheal intubation in the anesthetized patients, followed by significant and sustained decreases below baseline values once steady state anesthesia was attained. Arterial oxygenation was significantly improved in anesthetized patients. There were no serious complications due to anesthesia, but the small sample size limited the power of the study to detect differences in morbidity or mortality. Patients strongly preferred anesthesia. These results show that general anesthesia is feasible in patients undergoing interventional cardiac catheterization during acute myocardial infarction, when pain, anxiety or agitation do not respond adequately to conventional measures. PMID- 2521989 TI - Ipratropium bromide (Atrovent) in childhood asthma: a cumulative dose-response study. AB - Thirteen children with perennial bronchial asthma, with a mean age of 11.2 years, were studied concerning the bronchodilatory effect of ipratropium bromide in cumulative doses. All the children had reduced basal forced expiratory flow (FEV1) and bronchial reversibility of at least 20% after inhalation of salbutamol. The study had a double-blind design with a crossover technique. The inhaled dose of ipratropium bromide solution was increased stepwise from 25 micrograms to 500 micrograms and saline was used as the placebo. FEV1 was recorded 20, 40, and 60 minutes after inhalation of the test solution. At the lower ipratropium bromide dose levels no bronchodilatory effect was seen, but 60 minutes after the inhalation of 500 micrograms ipratropium bromide the increase in the FEV1 was significantly greater than that after placebo. Additional inhalation of salbutamol caused no further rise in FEV1. At the 500-micrograms level a fall in the heart rate was noted. No side effects occurred. We concluded that ipratropium bromide has bronchodilatory properties in childhood asthma when given in sufficiently high doses. PMID- 2521990 TI - Column chromatographic characterization of cytoplasmic proteins in Eimeria maxima oocysts from chickens. AB - Cytoplasmic proteins from unsporulated and sporulated Eimeria maxima oocysts were analyzed by gel-filtration column chromatography. Unsporulated oocysts were characterized as having 3 major cytoplasmic proteins and sporulated oocysts as having 5 major cytoplasmic proteins. Molecular weights ranged from 5 x 10(3) to 1.4 x 10(6). Larger molecular weight proteins were detected in sporulated and unsporulated oocysts, but were associated more with sporocysts of sporulated oocysts. PMID- 2521991 TI - Evaluation of the specificity of Pasteurella multocida somatic antigen-typing antisera prepared in chickens, using ribosome-lipopolysaccharide complexes as inocula. AB - Purified lipopolysaccharides (LPS) from 16 serotypes of Pasteurella multocida were complexed with Aspergillus fumigatus ribosomes. The complexes were used as inocula to prepare antisera, in chickens, for somatic antigen typing by the gel diffusion precipitin test (GDPT). Antisera made against 15 of 16 LPS reacted with their respective specific heat-stable antigens in the GDPT and homologous LPS in the passive hemagglutination test. Antisera could not be made against serotype 15 LPS. Correlation was not observed between intensity of the precipitin reaction in the GDPT and titer to homologous LPS in the passive hemagglutination test. Most antisera cross-reacted with other heat-stable antigens of other serotypes in the GDPT. Many of these cross-reactions were eliminated by dilution. Cross-reactions that occurred in the GDPT with antisera made against LPS of serotypes 2, 5, 7, and 8 could not be eliminated by dilution. PMID- 2521992 TI - Long-term assessment of a damp-stored, albumin-coated, knitted vascular graft. AB - In a previous study the authors reported greater endothelialization and thrombus free surface area in albumin-coated grafts compared with collagen-coated grafts after 1 month's aortic interposition. Another study was undertaken to determine whether these differences persisted after a 6-month implantation period. A 6 cm segment of either an albumin-coated [n = 6] or a collagen-coated [n = 4] graft was implanted into a canine descending thoracic aorta for 6 months. Light micrographs from multiple sections of each explanted graft were scored from 1 to 4, least to most, for tissue ingrowth, perigraft inflammation, and capsular thickness. Using computer planimetry, luminal thrombus free surface area and endothelial coverage were calculated from gross and electron photomicrographs, respectively. The results were averaged and expressed as mean +/- standard error (SEM). After 6 months, no significant differences were noted between the albumin coated grafts and the collagen-coated grafts, both of which were durable and served equally well as scaffolds for vascular remodeling and tissue incorporation. The authors conclude that the safety, ease of handling, low porosity, low thrombogenicity, and durability of the albuminated grafts warrant their clinical trial. PMID- 2521993 TI - Correlation of immunological studies and disease progression in chronic progressive multiple sclerosis. AB - Thirty untreated patients with clinically definite chronic progressive multiple sclerosis were matched with 10 patients with clinically stable definite multiple sclerosis and 16 patients with other neurological diseases. A group of 12 normal control (NC) volunteers was matched to these groups. All patients with chronic progressive multiple sclerosis and normal control subjects were analyzed for the concanavalin A suppressor assay, mitogen stimulation, and phenotyping of peripheral blood mononuclear cells. In addition, serum was analyzed for interleukin-2 levels. Results of mitogen stimulation studies did not distinguish the groups. Concanavalin A-induced suppression was significantly decreased in the patients with chronic progressive multiple sclerosis (p less than 0.01). Phenotyping of fresh cells showed an elevated CD4: CD8 ratio in the patients with chronic progressive multiple sclerosis. Neither phenotyping nor concanavalin A induced suppression correlated with or predicted the degree of disability, but the serum levels of interleukin-2 correlated inversely with disability (p less than 0.01) and directly with a poor prognosis after 18 months of observation (p less than 0.05). Serum levels of interleukin-2 decreased as the disease progressed. PMID- 2521994 TI - Activated suppressor cell function in severely disabled patients with multiple sclerosis. AB - Defective suppressor cell function has previously been demonstrated in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) with progressive disease and moderate degrees of disability. In the present study activated suppressor cell function was assessed in patients with documented progressive disease who, at the time of study, had experienced severe disability (Kurtzke score greater than or equal to 6.5) for at least 2 years. We found that mean suppressor levels were significantly increased in this patient group compared with the suppressor levels in the MS patient group with progressive disease but only moderate disability (Kurtzke score of less than or equal to 6.0 within 2 years of study) (59 +/- 8% vs 19 +/- 7%, respectively, p less than 0.01). The mean value in the latter group was significantly reduced compared with the mean value for normal control subjects (47 +/- 4%, p less than 0.01), a finding consistent with previous reports. The results of this study indicate that suppressor cell function, as measured by our assay system, need not be defective in MS patients who have become severely disabled from the progressive form of the disease. Whether the patients who are now severely disabled from progressive MS passed through a phase of disease associated with the same suppressor defects as found in the progressive patients currently with moderate disability will remain speculative until long-term longitudinal studies are performed. PMID- 2521995 TI - In vivo turnover of the basement membrane and other heparan sulfate proteoglycans of rat glomerulus. AB - The metabolic turnover of rat glomerular proteoglycans in vivo was investigated. Newly synthesized proteoglycans were labeled during a 7-h period after injecting sodium [35S]sulfate intraperitoneally. At the end of the labeling period a chase dose of sodium sulfate was given. Subsequently at defined times (0-163 h) the kidneys were perfused in situ with 0.01% cetylpyridinium chloride in phosphate buffered saline to maximize the recovery of 35S-proteoglycans. Glomeruli were isolated from the renal cortex and analyzed for 35S-proteoglycans by autoradiographic, biochemical, and immunochemical methods. Grain counting of autoradiographs revealed a complex turnover pattern of 35S-labeled macromolecules, commencing with a rapid phase followed by a slower phase. Biochemical analysis confirmed the biphasic pattern and showed that the total population of [35S]heparan sulfate proteoglycans had a metabolic half-life (t1/2) of 20 and 60 h in the early and late phases, respectively. Heparan sulfate proteoglycans accounted for 80% of total 35S-proteoglycans, the remainder being chondroitin/dermatan sulfate proteoglycans. Whole glomeruli were extracted with 4% 3-[(cholamidopropyl)dimethy-lammonio]-1-propanesulfonate-4 M guanidine hydrochloride, a procedure which solubilized greater than 95% of the 35S-labeled macromolecules. Of these 11-13% was immunoprecipitated by an antiserum against heparan sulfate proteoglycan which, in immunolocalization experiments, showed specificity for staining the basement membrane of rat glomeruli. Autoradiographic analysis showed that 18% of total radioactivity present at the end of the labeling period was associated with the glomerular basement membrane. The glomerular basement membrane [35S]heparan sulfate proteoglycans, identified by immunoprecipitation, have a very rapid turnover with an initial phase, t1/2 = 5 h, and a later phase t1/2 = 20 h. PMID- 2521996 TI - [The serum and tissue concentration of FT-207, 5'-DFUR and 5-FU in patients with breast cancer by preoperative administration of UFT and 5'-DFUR]. PMID- 2521997 TI - A comparison of the effect of ipratropium and albuterol in the treatment of chronic obstructive airway disease. AB - Twenty-five subjects with moderate to severe chronic obstructive airway disease were studied to compare the effect of ipratropium bromide, albuterol, and placebo on the forced expiratory volume in 1 s, (FEV1), forced vital capacity, heart rate, and blood pressure during six hours. Ipratropium produced a significantly greater improvement than albuterol in the FEV1 at 30 minutes and at 3, 4, and 5 hours and in the forced vital capacity at one through six hours. Fifteen subjects did not demonstrate a 15% improvement and at least a 200-mL increase in the FEV1, 15 minutes after metaproterenol sulfate aerosol. All 15 did improve after ipratropium therapy during the study. Ipratropium was effective significantly longer than albuterol. Subjects with better peak responses to ipratropium had a lower FEV1 percent predicted and a greater pack-year smoking history. In patients with chronic obstructive airway disease, ipratropium produces a longer duration of action than albuterol. It is more effective than albuterol in treating severely obstructed individuals and those not responding to metaproterenol. It is equally effective in treating others. PMID- 2521998 TI - Smooth muscle expresses a cardiac/slow muscle isoform of the Ca2+-transport ATPase in its endoplasmic reticulum. AB - Smooth muscle expresses in its endoplasmic reticulum an isoform of the Ca2+ transport ATPase that is very similar to or identical with that of the cardiac muscle/slow-twitch skeletal-muscle form. However, this enzyme differs from that found in fast-twitch skeletal muscle. This conclusion is based on two independent sets of observations, namely immunological observations and phosphorylation experiments. Immunoblot experiments show that two different antibody preparations against the Ca2+-transport ATPase of cardiac-muscle sarcoplasmic reticulum also recognize the endoplasmic-reticulum/sarcoplasmic-reticulum enzyme of the smooth muscle and the slow-twitch skeletal muscle whereas they bind very weakly or not at all to the sarcoplasmic-reticulum Ca2+-transport ATPase of the fast-twitch skeletal muscle. Conversely antibodies directed against the fast-twitch skeletal muscle isoform of the sarcoplasmic-reticulum Ca2+-transport ATPase do not bind to the cardiac-muscle, smooth-muscle or slow-twitch skeletal-muscle enzymes. The phosphorylated tryptic fragments A and A1 of the sarcoplasmic-reticulum Ca2+ transport ATPases have the same apparent Mr values in cardiac muscle, slow-twitch skeletal muscle and smooth muscle, whereas the corresponding fragments in fast twitch skeletal muscle have lower apparent Mr values. This analytical procedure is a new and easy technique for discrimination between the isoforms of endoplasmic-reticulum/sarcoplasmic-reticulum Ca2+-transport ATPases. PMID- 2521999 TI - Subcellular distribution and characteristics of trihydroxycoprostanoyl-CoA synthetase in rat liver. AB - The subcellular distribution and characteristics of trihydroxycoprostanoyl-CoA synthetase were studied in rat liver and were compared with those of palmitoyl CoA synthetase and choloyl-CoA synthetase. Trihydroxycoprostanoyl-CoA synthetase and choloyl-CoA synthetase were localized almost completely in the endoplasmic reticulum. A quantitatively insignificant part of trihydroxycoprostanoyl-CoA synthetase was perhaps present in mitochondria. Peroxisomes, which convert trihydroxycoprostanoyl-CoA into choloyl-CoA, were devoid of trihydroxycoprostanoyl-CoA synthetase. As already known, palmitoyl-CoA synthetase was distributed among mitochondria, peroxisomes and endoplasmic reticulum. Substrate- and cofactor- (ATP, CoASH) dependence of the three synthesis activities were also studied. Cholic acid and trihydroxycoprostanic acid did not inhibit palmitoyl-CoA synthetase; palmitate inhibited the other synthetases non competitively. Likewise, cholic acid inhibited trihydroxycoprostanic acid activation non-competitively and vice versa. The pH curves of the synthetases did not coincide. Triton X-100 affected the activity of each of the synthetases differently. Trihydroxycoprostanoyl-CoA synthetase was less sensitive towards inhibition by pyrophosphate than choloyl-CoA synthetase. The synthetases could not be solubilized from microsomal membranes by treatment with 1 M-NaCl, but could be solubilized with Triton X-100 or Triton X-100 plus NaCl. The detergent solubilized trihydroxycoprostanoyl-CoA synthetase could be separated from the solubilized choloyl-CoA synthetase and palmitoyl-CoA synthetase by affinity chromatograpy on Sepharose to which trihydroxycoprostanic acid was bound. Choloyl CoA synthetase and trihydroxycoprostanoyl-CoA synthetase could not be detected in homogenates from kidney or intestinal mucosa. The results indicate that long chain fatty acids, cholic acid and trihydroxycoprostanic acid are activated by three separate enzymes. PMID- 2522001 TI - Docosahexaenoic acid is neither synthesized nor retroconverted by the normal and tumor mouse mammary epithelial cells in primary culture. AB - Metabolism of 1-14C-[18:3(n-3)] and 1-14C-[22:6(n-3)] were investigated in the primary cultures of normal and tumor mouse mammary epithelial cells. Analysis of endogenous fatty acid composition indicated a decreased proportion of total (n-6) PUFA in the cultured tumor cells compared to normal cells. These cells can synthesize significant amount of 20:5 (n-3) and 22:5 (n-3) but not 22:6 (n-3), from 18:3 (n-3). There was very little or no retroconversion of 22:6 (n-3) by these cells. It has been concluded that mammary epithelial cells may be deficient in 4-desaturase activity and also that exogenous 22:6 (n-3), instead of serving as a source of 20:5 (n-3), may actually counter the effects of both 20:4 (n-6) and 20:5 (n-3) in the mammary tissue. PMID- 2522000 TI - Membrane proteins in senescent erythrocytes. AB - The examination of erythrocyte senescence has been facilitated by recent advances in techniques for the isolation of aged red cells. One of these methods, which uses biotinylated rabbit erythrocytes, has been used to examine the state of membrane proteins in effete cells. These aged red cells were found to have normal ratios of alpha-spectrin and beta-spectrin as well as normal levels of ankyrin. The observation concerning ankyrin is particularly important due to the sensitivity of this protein to proteolysis and the postulated action of proteinases in the aging process. The senescent erythrocytes were also found to have an altered ratio of bands 4.1a and 4.1b without any apparent change in the total level of 4.1. In addition, the analysis of the aged cell membranes did not show any large-molecular-mass aggregated protein at the origin of the SDS/polyacrylamide gels, indicating a lack of transglutaminase activity in the senescence process for rabbit erythrocytes. These results indicate that aging of the rabbit erythrocyte is not accompanied by gross proteolytic degradation or transglutaminase-catalysed cross-linking of membrane components. PMID- 2522002 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) increases urinary protein excretion in patients with essential hypertension: a possible role of ANF for renal handling of protein. AB - Low dose iv infusion (0.01 and 0.03 micrograms/kg per min, for 30 min each) of alpha-human atrial natriuretic factor (alpha-hANF) produced a significant increase (+300%) in urinary protein excretion in patients with essential hypertension but not in normotensive controls, when their renal function was normal. The major component of excreted proteins induced by alpha-hANF infusion was presumed to be albumin on the basis of molecular weight (69,000) analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS)-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Urine output and sodium and potassium excretion rates were increased dose-dependently by alpha hANF infusion in the hypertensive patients in a similar fashion to those in the controls. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) remained unchanged in the controls but was slightly increased in the patients (+33%) during the infusion. These results suggest that besides its previously recognized physiological functions such as natriuresis and diuresis, ANF plays an important role in the regulation of renal handling of proteins in patients with essential hypertension. PMID- 2522004 TI - Heart and hypertension. AB - The manifestations of cardiac involvement in hypertension include: (1) the development of hypertensive heart disease characterized by left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), and (2) the consequences of coronary atherosclerosis, as angina pectoris, myocardial infarction, and sudden cardiac death. Whereas the former is directly related to increased blood pressure, the latter are sequelae of atherosclerosis per se, and hypertension acts only as a risk factor in this regard. This can partially explain why antihypertensive treatment is effective in diminishing the incidence of congestive heart failure, which is the final consequence of LVH, but is not very effective in preventing coronary complications. It is generally accepted about LVH that increased arterial pressure is the major stimulus to cardiac hypertrophy in hypertension; however, there are a lot of both quantitative and qualitative events suggesting that other factors beside blood pressure levels can modulate the development of LVH, in particular neurohumoral influences. From a morphological point of view, hypertrophy of the cardiac muscle is defined as an increase in the size of existing myocardial fibers. In most experimental models, myocardial hypertrophy is associated with myosin isoenzymatic changes, consisting in a shift from the faster migrating isoenzyme V1 to V3, a form that migrates more slowly. However these changes do not occur in all animal species and particularly in humans. In the hypertrophied human ventricle, a decreased ATPase activity of myofibrils was observed, probably related to changes in myosin light chains. Presently the changes in ATPase activity and in ventricular contractility do not still have a clear molecular basis in humans.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2522003 TI - Expression of thromboxane A2 receptor in cultured human erythroleukemia cells and its induction by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate. AB - Using [125I]I-S-145-OH, a radiolabeled derivative of a thromboxane (TX) A2 receptor antagonist, we have studied the expression of the TXA2 receptor in several lines of cultured leukemia cells. Specific binding of the ligand was observed in cells of two human erythroleukemia cell lines, K562 and HEL. However, only negligible binding was seen in HL-60 human promyelocytic leukemia cells and L-1210 murine leukemia cells. Scatchard analyses revealed a curvilinear plot which indicated the existence of two classes of binding sites in these cells. The Kd and Bmax values of the high and low affinity bindings in HEL cells were 2.4 nM and 24 fmol/10(6) cells, and 58 nM and 360 fmol/10(6) cells, respectively. These values in K562 cells were 2.8 nM and 16 fmol/10(6) cells, and 18 nM and 46 fmol/10(6) cells, respectively. The addition of 12-O-tetradecanoyl-phorbol-13 acetate (TPA) to the cultures of K562 and HEL cells caused a concentration- and time-dependent increase in the binding activity. TPA at 10(-8) M increased the Bmax values of both high and low affinity bindings approximately 3 times without significant change in their Kd values and these increases were inhibited by the addition of actinomycin D. Both classes of the binding in cells of each cell line were specifically displaced by several TXA2/prostaglandin (PG) H2 analogues, although the relative specificities to the analogues were different in the two classes. These results suggest that both HEL and K562 cells express the TXA2 receptor on their cell surface and TPA strongly induces this expression in these cells. PMID- 2522005 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor. Its possible role in hypertension and congestive heart failure. AB - The atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) is a circulating peptide, consisting of 24 to 28 amino acids. Atrial natriuretic factor is synthetized in atrial cardiomyocytes and stored in specific cytoplasmatic granules. It possesses potent diuretic, natriuretic, and vasorelexant properties. The possible role of ANF in the pathogenesis of hypertension and heart failure was investigated in animal models and in men. We were able to show that the release of ANF from cardiac atria is positively correlated with atrial pressures in both men and rats. In experimental studies, plasma levels of ANF measured by radioimmunoassay, were increased by up to four-fold after acute blood volume expansion. Atrial natriuretic factor release in response to volume loading was markedly attenuated in four-week-old spontaneously hypertensive rats as compared to age-matched normotensive Wistar Kyoto rats, but a similar responsiveness was found in 16-week-old rats of both strains. This finding can be reconciled with the hypothesis that ANF plays a pathophysiological role in initiating but not maintaining high blood pressure. Clinical studies demonstrate elevated plasma concentrations of ANF in patients with organic heart disease. Further increments in plasma levels of ANF were obtained during physical exercise and after acute volume loading. In patients with congestive cardiomyopathy, the elevated plasma concentrations of ANF reached almost normal levels following improvement of their hemodynamic disturbances after treatment with converting-enzyme inhibitors. These findings suggest that in patients with organic heart disease, plasma concentrations of ANF reflect the hemodynamic burden of the heart and may, therefore, be used as a noninvasive marker of the efficacy of the current cardiac therapy. PMID- 2522006 TI - Regression of structural alterations in hypertension. AB - Morbidity and mortality are higher in hypertensive patients who have already developed cardiovascular complications. Several prospective epidemiological and clinical studies have indicated that regression of cardiovascular alterations, preferably when still at an initial stage, is a desirable goal in the treatment of hypertension. Clinical assessment of cardiac hypertrophy may be precisely obtained with echocardiography. Structural vascular changes may be evaluated indirectly in man by measuring minimal vascular resistance from maximal blood flow and arterial pressure. The results of a large number of studies have indicated that in hypertensive patients a significant regression of cardiovascular structural changes may be obtained with several antihypertensive drugs, but they have not yet established whether a complete "normalization" may be really obtained. Further studies are needed to identify factors that modulate regression of cardiac and vascular smooth muscle hypertrophy. Most important, it still remains to be clarified whether regression of cardiovascular structural changes in hypertensives significantly improves prognosis per se independently from blood pressure reduction. PMID- 2522009 TI - Can social workers damage your dental health? PMID- 2522007 TI - Effects of nicardipine on left ventricular hemodynamic patterns in systemic hypertension. AB - To assess left ventricular (LV) functional and structural changes associated with the reduction of blood pressure (BP) values during nicardipine administration (60 mg daily, for two months), 17 hypertensive patients were studied by M-mode echocardiography, according to a double-blind design (11 with nicardipine and six with placebo). Decrease in BP induced by nicardipine was associated with decrease in myocardial afterload (end-systolic stress) (P less than .002) and improvement of systolic function (fractional shortening) (P less than .02), without changes in inotropic state (assessed by systolic BP/end-systolic dimension/posterior wall thickness ratio). At the end of trial, a 5% reduction was found in LV mass (P less than .002), whereas relative wall thickness did not change. Diastolic phase (assessed by relaxation time index, and the slope of EF tract of the anterior mitral valve leaflet) was improved (.01 less than P less than .001). Patients with concentric and eccentric hypertrophy were separately considered. Relaxation time index and fractional shortening were significantly improved only in patients with concentric hypertrophy (P less than .01), whereas in the other ones the effect of treatment was variable. These differences were probably due to different effects on preload in the two LV hemodynamic patterns. Thus, nicardipine shows powerful effects on cardiac mechanics in systemic hypertension, but these effects are different according to LV anatomic pattern. Only in the presence of concentric hypertrophy is it possible to foresee the improvement of LV function; LV hypertrophy can be also reduced in concentric hypertrophy, but in the short term the reduction is too small to assume pathophysiologic significance. PMID- 2522010 TI - The dental implications of HIV infection. AB - The provision of dental care for members of the population infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and those with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), has wide implications for methods of dental practice, professional ethics, dental education at all levels, and the interaction between the dental, medical and auxiliary professions. In addition, there is a potential role for dentists in the recognition of infected patients through the presence of various oral manifestations. PMID- 2522008 TI - Safety and efficacy of amlodipine added to hydrochlorothiazide therapy in essential hypertension. AB - We compared amlodipine, a dihydropyridine calcium antagonist, to placebo as add on therapy to hydrochlorothiazide in 91 hypertensive patients inadequately controlled on hydrochlorothiazide (50 mg/d for four weeks). This was a double blind, randomized, multicenter, parallel group-trial; 45 patients received placebo and 46 received amlodipine in doses of 2.5 to 10 mg qd (mean 9 mg/d). Supine blood pressure systolic/diastolic, mean +/- SE mm Hg) 24-hour postdose was significantly reduced by 14.2 +/- 2.3/11.7 +/- 1, compared to placebo, 4.5 +/- 2.7/5 +/- 1.2. Standing blood pressure was similarly reduced: amlodipine by 14 +/ 2.7/12.5 +/- 1.2; placebo by 3 +/- 2.1/5.8 +/- 1.2. This reduction in blood pressure was attained without any significant changes in pulse rate, EKG, and serum lipids (triglycerides were reduced in the amlodipine group by 42.9 mg/dL, P = .023). Only two patients had side effects requiring discontinuation from the study (both in the amlodipine group). Side effects occurred in 27 amlodipine treated patients (11 with peripheral edema) and 18 patients in the placebo (three with peripheral edema) group. Investigator's assessment of therapeutic effect and tolerability, and the percent of responders v nonresponders was also in favor of amlodipine. Thus amlodipine administered once daily is an effective and safe agent for second-step therapy in mild to moderate essential hypertension. PMID- 2522011 TI - Cis- and trans-acting factors for transcription of the adenovirus 12 E1A gene. AB - Cis- and trans-acting factors were analyzed for transcription of the adenovirus 12 E1A gene possessing two sites for transcription initiation. These sites are located at nucleotide positions 306 and 445 with respect to the left end of the viral genome as position 1. The template activity of DNAs with various deletions at the 5'-upstream region of the E1A gene was examined in a cell-free system using a nuclear extract of Ehrlich ascites tumor cells. A DNA region specifically stimulating transcription initiated at the site distal to the E1A coding sequence was found located between positions 1 and 166. No DNA sequence affecting transcription from a proximal start-site appeared to be present in the region between positions 1 and 378. DNaseI-footprinting indicated that factors present in the extract bind to two distinct DNA segments, both of which are located within a region stimulating distal transcription. Two footprints were observed, one between positions 19 and 55 and the other between 77 and 94. The former footprint was inhibited by synthetic oligonucleotides containing a sequence recognized by nuclear factor I and the latter contained a sequence similar to one present in the B-enhancer of polyoma virus. Competition of in vitro transcription with synthetic oligonucleotides indicated (a) nuclear factor(s) bound to the region between positions 19 and 55 to be responsible for stimulating distal transcription of the adenovirus 12 E1A gene. PMID- 2522013 TI - Thrombospondin interaction with plasminogen. Evidence for binding to a specific region of the kringle structure of plasminogen. AB - Platelet thrombospondin interacts with plasminogen in a specific and saturable manner. Thrombospondin was found to specifically bind to plasminogen and the nonenzyme chain of plasmin. Preincubation of 125I-labeled thrombospondin with 30 mmol/L lysine was without effect in the binding of thrombospondin to immobilized plasminogen; preincubation of 125I-labeled plasminogen with 30 mmol/L lysine, on the other hand, significantly reduced the binding of plasminogen to immobilized thrombospondin, suggesting that the interaction of thrombospondin with plasminogen is not the direct result of the lysine binding sites of plasminogen. Arginine and benzamidine, ligands known to specifically bind to the kringle 5 domain of plasminogen, blocked the binding of thrombospondin to plasminogen. Limited elastase proteolysis of plasminogen and plasmin resulted in the generation of two distinct thrombospondin binding domains, one of which was retained on lysine-agarose. The isolation and amino-terminal analysis of these domains following elastase proteolysis of plasminogen identified them, respectively, as a domain containing kringle structures 4 and 5 and plasmin and the other domain consisting of kringle 5-plasmin. A 16-residue synthetic peptide, which represents the amino acids linking kringle 4 to kringle 5 (residues 435-450 of native plasminogen), was without effect in either binding to thrombospondin or blocking the binding of thrombospondin to plasminogen. Plasminogen, therefore, possesses a single thrombospondin interactive site that is independent of, but influenced by, the lysine binding site containing kringle structures and most likely is located within the kringle 5 domain. PMID- 2522012 TI - Chromatin structure and levels of expression and DNA methylation in the E3 region of chromosomally integrated adenovirus type 12 DNA. AB - Integrated adenovirus type 12 (Ad12) genes in Ad12-transformed cell lines were investigated for chromatin structure, expression levels and states of DNA methylation. The E3 region in the Ad12-transformed cell line HA12/7 is hypermethylated and not expressed. The same region in the Ad12-transformed hamster cell lines T637 and A2497-3 is transcribed and undermethylated (Kruczek, I. and Doerfler, W. (1982) EMBO J. 1, 409-414). There was no significant difference in the DNase I sensitivity of the E3 region when nuclei of the aforementioned cell lines were incubated with this nuclease. In contrast, incubation of these nuclei with the restriction endonuclease PstI and subsequent cleavage of the DNA with BamHI generated an additional 0.9 kbp fragment in T637 and A2497-3 DNA which was not observed after treating HA12/7 nuclei and DNA in the same way. This finding was interpreted as indicative of differences in the chromatin structure of the E3 region depending on its state of transcriptional activity and its level of methylation. The E1 and major late promoter regions, which were transcriptionally active and inactive, respectively, in all three cell lines investigated, did not exhibit differences in sensitivity towards DNase I or PstI treatment of nuclei. More refined technology will be required to compare the chromatin structure of active versus inactive genes. PMID- 2522014 TI - Human fibroblast tissue factor is inhibited by lipoprotein-associated coagulation inhibitor and placental anticoagulant protein but not by apolipoprotein A-II. AB - Studies of proteins that inhibit tissue factor activity have generally been conducted using either an extracted tissue homogenate ("thromboplastin") or tissue factor protein reconstituted into phospholipid vesicles rather than with tissue factor expressed in cell membranes (its physiological environment). In the present study, a human fibroblast cell strain was used to evaluate the effects of lipoprotein associated coagulation inhibitor (LACI), placental anticoagulant protein (PAP), and apolipoprotein A-II (apo A-II) on human tissue factor in cell membranes. LACI was tested from 7.8 to 500 pmol/L on fibroblasts cultured at cell densities ranging from 3,500 to 9,925 cells/well, and caused a progressive inhibition of tissue factor activity. PAP was tested from 3.9 nmol/L to 1 mumol/L at cell densities ranging from 4,500 to 15,400 cells/well and caused up to 83% inhibition of tissue factor activity. Inhibition by these proteins appeared to be influenced by cell density as well as whether the cells were intact or disrupted. Apo A-II, up to 1 mumol/L, did not inhibit the tissue factor activity of intact or disrupted fibroblasts at any cell density examined even though it did inhibit the activity of tissue factor in phospholipid vesicles. Of these inhibitors of tissue factor-dependent activation of factor X, LACI was the most effective in suppressing the generation of factor Xa activity. The effects obtained with apo A II are clearly dependent on the nature of the tissue factor preparation with which it is tested. The disparity between the inhibitory effect of apo A-II on the activity of tissue factor reconstituted into lipid vesicles and the absence of effect on the activity of tissue factor remaining in cell membranes serves to reemphasize the necessity of reexamining results obtained with model systems using as nearly physiological reagents as possible. PMID- 2522015 TI - Therapy of the myeloid blast phase of chronic granulocytic leukemia with plicamycin and hydroxyurea. AB - Treatment of the myeloid blast phase of chronic granulocytic leukemia is still a major problem in clinical hematology. Alternate-day plicamycin and hydroxyurea treatment was reported to induce remissions in the majority of patients with myeloid blast phase by Koller and Miller in 1986 Subsequently we treated eight patients according to this regimen. Complete remissions could not be achieved and no prolongation of median survival was observed. In two patients treatment had to be discontinued due to severe toxicity. PMID- 2522017 TI - [The occurrence of protozoa in the intestinal microflora of laboratory mice]. AB - The intestinal content of 216 white SPF laboratory mice was examined for the presence of protozoa. 153 (70.8%) were found to be positive. The following protozoa species were determined: Trichomonas muris in 31.5%, Trichomonas sp. in 29.6%, Chilomastix becentourti in 18.5%, Octomitus intestinalis in 7.8%, Giardia muris in 6.9%, Spironucleus muris in 4.1%, and Entamoeba muris in 14.8%. The given species occurred in the mice either individually or, in the majority of cases, combined infections involving 2-5 species were recorded. Young mice transferred from the breeding station were but rarely colonized, and that only by a small number of protozoa. They contract infection from older animals in the animal room. (Tab. 3, Ref. 11.). PMID- 2522018 TI - Coronary air embolism during coronary angioplasty. AB - A case is described in which the use of the Hartzler microcatheter during coronary angioplasty resulted in coronary air embolism. The recognition, prevention, and mechanism of this occurrence are discussed. PMID- 2522016 TI - The effect of spermine, spermidine and kallikrein on the triple adenosine triphosphatase enzyme activity of spermatozoa in males with oligoasthenozoospermia. AB - Unknown factors in the seminal plasma of normal semen that affect the motility of spermatozoa have a positive effect on adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) enzyme activity. In an attempt to produce such an effect, spermine, spermidine and kallikrein were added to the incubation media in which spermatozoal ATPase enzyme activity was determined. These seminal substances increased the triple ATPase enzyme activity of spermatozoa from oligoasthenozoospermic men. We propose that the ATPase enzyme activity of spermatozoa may indicate sperm motility as a biochemical test. PMID- 2522019 TI - Emergency balloon angioplasty and digital subtraction angiography in the management of an acute iatrogenic occlusive dissection of a saphenous vein graft. AB - A 63-year-old male with status post quadruple aortocoronary bypass surgery suddenly complained of chest pain and had ST-segment elevation in lead III during routine coronary angiography. Subsequent selective injections showed occlusion of the bypass graft to the right coronary artery, whereas by digital angiography done 15 min earlier it had been patient. Iatrogenic dissection of the graft was assumed, and balloon recanalization was immediately performed. Chest pain and signs of ischemia rapidly resolved, and no evidence of myocardial infarction was found until hospital discharge. PMID- 2522020 TI - Local infection after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty: relation to early repuncture of ipsilateral femoral artery. AB - We describe two cases of groin infection following repuncture of the femoral artery to perform coronary angioplasty soon after diagnostic coronary arteriography. This serious complication can be avoided by using the contralateral femoral artery in this setting, even if the previously used entry site appears benign. PMID- 2522021 TI - Myocardial ischemia with aortocoronary artery gradient reversal during right coronary angioplasty. AB - Aortocoronary gradients are useful in assessing luminal obstructions and collateral supply during PTCA. Reversibility of collateral flow is demonstrated in a 51-year old angina patient. PMID- 2522022 TI - Use of the internal mammary artery guiding catheter for percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty of the shepherd's crook right coronary artery. AB - Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) of shepherd's crook right coronary arteries presents a difficult technical challenge. Presented here are two cases demonstrating the use of an internal mammary guiding catheter for PTCA of shepherd's crook right coronary arteries. The advantages of this guiding catheter, a short tip with an acute distal angle, are emphasized. PMID- 2522023 TI - Use of mechanical injectors during percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA). PMID- 2522024 TI - Power injection of contrast media during percutaneous transluminal coronary artery angioplasty. AB - Visualization of the coronary arteries during all phases of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty using hand-held contrast media injection devices is suboptimal. Power injection of contrast media for diagnostic coronary cineangiography has been performed in over 18,000 cases without power injector complication. Here we report our experience with 294 patients using power injection for visualization during all phases of PTCA. It provides optimal visualization of the coronary arteries and has not been associated with complications. It is a safe and efficient system with reduction in both the time and radiation exposure required to perform PTCA and allows determination of the adequacy of the result without unnecessary recrossing of the area of dilatation. PMID- 2522025 TI - Highly immunogenic regressor tumor cells can prevent development of postsurgical tumor immunity. AB - Highly immunogenic malignant cells form small tumors that spontaneously regress after initial growth because the tumor induces specific immunity. However, variants may arise during the initial tumor growth that lose antigens, grow progressively, often become the predominant tumor population, and eventually kill the host. These progressively growing variants usually have not lost all tumor antigens and remain susceptible to rejection by T cells specific for antigens present on the parental tumor and retained by the progressively growing variants. Thus, it would seem logical for therapy to actively immunize with the parental highly immunogenic tumor (or sublines made similarly immunogenic by tumor heterogenization) after maximal surgical removal of the growing tumor. However, the present findings suggest that such a strategy may be ineffective and have adverse effects: the parental highly immunogenic tumor cells, either remaining or reintroduced, may perpetuate unresponsiveness to both the parental and the variant tumor. These findings suggest that unless tumor-induced suppression is first abrogated, immunization with highly immunogenic tumor cells may be counterproductive because this maneuver may maintain preexisting immune suppression and prevent development of postsurgical tumor immunity. PMID- 2522027 TI - Correlation between heart disorders and concentrations of directly measured atrial natriuretic peptide in plasma. AB - We used new commercially available direct radioimmunoassay to measure human atrial natriuretic peptide (h-ANP) in plasma from 48 individuals who were being evaluated for left and right ventricular function. For 13 healthy individuals with normal ventricular function these concentrations ranged up to 54 ng/L. Measurements of h-ANP clearly differentiated between normal subjects, patients with coronary artery disease, and patients who had undergone orthotopic heart transplantation (ANOVA P less than 0.0001, significant differences between all groups)--all showing normal ventricular function at rest. There was a strong negative correlation (r = -0.64, P less than 0.001) between left ventricular ejection fraction and h-ANP concentrations in plasma of patients with proven coronary artery disease, patients with cardiomyopathy, and healthy individuals. Results by the present method and methods involving extraction of the sample correlated well. Evidently the direct assay of h-ANP in plasma yields information that could be used to help evaluate heart disorders and other pathophysiological conditions causing increased h-ANP concentrations in plasma. PMID- 2522026 TI - The IgE and IgG subclass responses of mice to four helminth parasites. AB - To investigate whether the formation of IgE is linked in vivo to an IgG subclass, mice were infected with four helminth parasites, Nippostrongylus brasiliensis (Nbr), Mesocestoides corti, Taenia crassiceps and Trichinella spiralis, and the changes in the serum levels of the different Ig isotypes as well as the antibody response to M. corti and T. crassiceps antigen extracts were determined by radioimmunoassays. All four parasites induced a concomitant increase of the IgE and IgG1 serum levels and usually a decrease of the IgG2a level. They also induced an increase of the IgM level but had little effect on the IgG2b, IgG3, and IgA serum levels. The specific antibodies to an M. corti antigen extract were mainly of the IgG1 subclass, whereas it was of both IgG1 and IgG2a subclasses to T. crassiceps. Injections of dead M. corti induced an increase of all IgG subclasses and similar levels of IgG1 and IgG2a anti-parasite antibodies. Subcutaneous instead of intraperitoneal infection with T. crassiceps induced higher IgG2a than IgG1 levels and 10-fold lower IgE levels than the natural ip infection; however, despite the greater IgG2a polyclonal response, anti-parasite antibodies were predominantly of the IgG1 subclass. The data demonstrate that natural infection with four different helminth parasites induces a concomitant polyclonal IgG1 and IgE response. These in vivo observations corroborate the recent in vitro findings demonstrating that interleukin-4 induces lipopolysaccharide-activated murine B cells to secrete both IgG1 and IgE, suggesting that the regulation of these two isotypes is linked. PMID- 2522028 TI - Evaluation of a direct assay for atrial natriuretic peptide. AB - A direct radioimmunoassay for the assessment of human atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) in plasma, using a highly specific antibody and a well-defined monoiodotyrosyl-tracer was developed and evaluated by concurrent application of an extraction method. Sensitivity was 13.4 pg/ml; intra- and interassay variations were 3.1 and 5.5%, respectively; recovery averaged 99%; normal values ranged from 15-111 pg/ml (mean +/- SD = 59 +/- 25 pg/ml, n = 41). The results, including the effect of exercise, of the two methods correlated well. Pooling ANP values in normal subjects and patients with congestive heart failure gave a good correlation (p less than 0.01). However, due to processes in unextracted plasma, in the lower range the results from the direct method were erratic. Velocity and duration of centrifugation changed the number of platelets, but no effect on ANP levels, whether assessed by the direct or by the extraction method, was observed. Although the direct method is considerably less laborious than the extracted method its lack of reliability disqualifies it for most purposes. PMID- 2522029 TI - Alternative therapies for acne, aphthae, insect bites, and bullous diseases. PMID- 2522030 TI - Transient myeloproliferative disorder. In a neonate with Down syndrome. Immunophenotypic studies. AB - This report describes the results of bone marrow leukocyte immunophenotypic studies, DNA index measurement, and chromosome analysis in a newborn with Down syndrome and transient myeloproliferative disorder. The infant's initial leukocytosis with immature cells in the peripheral blood and thrombocytopenia resolved without treatment by 6 months of age, and he was well at 2 years of age. The lack of specific reactivity between the patient's morphologically immature cells and multiple monoclonal antibodies directed against lymphoid and myeloid leukemia cells may be characteristic of this disorder. Other cases should be examined for immunophenotype to correlate the results with chromosomal analysis and to provide a basis for comparison in those who subsequently develop true acute leukemia. PMID- 2522031 TI - Radiology for back pain. PMID- 2522032 TI - Avulsed Olbert balloon--an avoidable complication of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty. AB - Complete detachment of an intact Olbert angioplasty balloon on catheter withdrawal through scar tissue in the groin is reported. Surgical retrieval of the avulsed balloon was subsequently necessary. In the presence of scarring, balloon catheters should be introduced and withdrawn through an appropriately sized sheath in order to avoid this complication. PMID- 2522033 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide levels in plasma and in cardiac tissues after chronic hypoxia in rats. AB - 1. Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) levels were measured in cardiac tissues and in plasma from adult rats exposed to chronic alveolar hypoxia for periods of 2 h, 24 h and 7 days. Levels were also measured in rats that were maintained in hypoxia for 7 days and then returned to air for 24 h. 2. Plasma ANP was not altered at 2 h but was significantly increased at both 24 h and at 7 days. Plasma ANP in animals exposed to hypoxia for 7 days was normal 24 h after returning to air breathing, despite the persistence of indices of pulmonary hypertension. 3. No significant right atrial hypertrophy was observed under these conditions of chronic hypoxia. A reduction in right atrial ANP content was found at 24 h and was accompanied by a decrease in the number of electrondense granules per right atrial muscle cell. After exposure to hypoxia for 7 days, right atrial ANP and granule number was not different from control, and no alteration was found in right atrial ANP level after removal from the hypoxic environment. 4. No significant right ventricular hypertrophy was produced by exposure to hypoxia for 2 or 24 h. In the former group ventricular ANP had decreased significantly compared with control. Right ventricular hypertrophy was found in both the hypoxic groups after exposure for 7 days, when selective increases in right ventricular ANP content were found. 5. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that ANP release occurs on exposure to chronic hypoxia and is independent of the associated cardiac hypertrophy and pulmonary vascular remodelling. The findings may have relevance to the natriuresis and reported changes in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone axis under hypoxic conditions. PMID- 2522034 TI - Dental caries and the need for treatment among institutionalized elderly. AB - The main purpose for the study was to determine the occurrence of untreated dental decay, and to assess the expressed demand for operative caries therapy among dentate institutionalized elderly in Denmark. The study population comprised all dentate elderly in eight nursing homes (n = 126) and in five hospital long-term care facilities (n = 75). In both groups of elderly 70% had untreated decay. The mean number of surfaces with untreated decay among the elderly in nursing homes (NH) and in hospital long-term care facilities (LTC) was respectively 9.7 and 7.5. The predominant factors influencing the occurrence of untreated decay were the use of dental services and the degree of helplessness. Regular use of dental services reduced the amount of untreated decay among the NH elderly, and the totally helpless LTC elderly had more decay than those able to manage alone. Half of the NH residents who had decay did not want treatment or were not able to express their demand for treatment due to poor mental or physical health. The realistic need for traditional operative filling therapy is discussed and it is concluded that the goal of an oral health care program for NH elderly should be to meet not only the demand for such treatment but also the need for emergency treatment and non-operative caries treatment. PMID- 2522035 TI - Captopril-induced hypersensitivity lung disease. An immune-complex-mediated phenomenon. AB - Captopril has not yet been included in the list of drugs causing hypersensitivity lung disease. We report a patient with hypertension, congestive heart failure, and chronic renal failure who, when rechallenged with captopril, developed upper lung field infiltrates associated with productive cough and striking peripheral eosinophilia. Gallium scan, transbronchial biopsy histologic findings, and direct immunofluorescent study were consistent with an immune-complex-mediated hypersensitivity reaction. There was no other etiology discovered for the patient's eosinophilia, nor was there evidence for an infectious etiology to explain his presentation. PMID- 2522036 TI - [Clinical features and diagnosis of mild 3-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase deficiency in men]. AB - 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSD) deficiency was demonstrated in six males, aged between 18 and 24 years, who had gynaecomastia, hypogonadism or infertility. The predominant laboratory finding was a striking elevation of dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS) levels. The diagnosis of HSD deficiency was confirmed by finding a marked rise in dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and 17 hydroxypregnenolone levels. In contrast to these findings in late-onset enzyme deficiency, in four males with the classical form of 21-hydroxylase deficiency the only sign was a reduction in adult height. The prevalence of late-onset HSD deficiency in men is not known and may be more relevant in patients with gynaecomastia or abnormal gonadal function than has hitherto been realized. PMID- 2522037 TI - [Pharmacologic and toxicologic properties of humic acids and their activity profile for veterinary medicine therapy]. AB - Humic acids derive from a class of natural substances in humic substances. The chemical properties of certain defined humic acid products enable their application in diseases of the digestive system of mammals when combined with metabolic disorders, especially in rearing age. The simple administration (via feed), their exceptional safety and the absence of side effects (e. g. allergy, resistance) as well as no residue formation in animal derived products allow a broad application of these substances in veterinary medicine, even when regarding ecotoxicological aspects. PMID- 2522038 TI - [Bronchoconstriction and resuscitation worsened by the aerosol-- Atrovent]. PMID- 2522039 TI - [Back pain]. PMID- 2522040 TI - [Back pain in the young]. PMID- 2522041 TI - [The back school--treatment and prevention of back pain]. PMID- 2522042 TI - Ventilatory, circulatory, endocrine, and renal effects of almitrine infusion in man: a contribution to high altitude physiology. AB - Diuresis at altitude was thought to be the result of chemoreceptor stimulation leading to a reduction of cardiac volume overload. This hypothesis was tested in ten young, healthy subjects by infusion of almitrine (0.5 mg.kg-1 body mass within 30 min) assuming analogous sites of action, i.e. arterial chemoreceptors and pulmonary vessels, for almitrine as for hypoxic hypoxia. The results show that almitrine increases ventilation, heart rate, systolic blood pressure, central venous pressure and natriuresis, but fails to increase significantly atrial natriuretic peptide plasma concentration and diuresis. It is concluded: (1) that almitrine has similar sites of action as hypoxic hypoxia at about 5000 m, (2) that natriuresis during arterial chemoreceptor stimulation might reduce cardiac volume overload, (3) that the volume excretion hypothesis, in particular the pathways from the cardiac volume overload to the water diuresis, need, for an understanding of the hypoxia-induced diuresis, further direct investigations at altitude. PMID- 2522043 TI - Modulation of the GTPase activity of the chloroplast F1-ATPase by ATP binding at noncatalytic sites. AB - Although the binding of nucleotides at the noncatalytic sites of F1-ATPase has been regarded as probably having some type of regulatory function, only limited observations have been reported that support such a role. We present here results showing that the presence of ATP at noncatalytic sites can give a fivefold enhancement of the rate of GTP hydrolysis by the chloroplast F1-ATPase. Heat activation of the chloroplast F1-ATPase in the presence of ATP, followed by column separation from the medium nucleotides gives an enzyme with two of the three noncatalytic sites filled with ATP. In contrast, heat-activation in the presence of ADP gives an enzyme with only one noncatalytic site filled with ADP. Such an enzyme with two noncatalytic sites empty catalyzes MgGTP hydrolysis only very slowly. The filling of a second noncatalytic site with ATP by exposure of the enzyme to ATP without Mg2+ present, followed by column separation, markedly increases the rate of GTP hydrolysis. A further increase occurs when a third noncatalytic site is filled by exposure to Mg2+ and ATP. The rate of MgATP hydrolysis is the same for the enzyme heat-activated in the presence of ATP or ADP, probably because MgATP, unlike MgGTP, rapidly binds to both catalytic and noncatalytic sites. PMID- 2522044 TI - DNA analysis in juvenile Huntington disease. AB - We report a 6-year-old boy with a positive family history of Huntington disease (HD), who presented with ambiguous neurological and psychiatric symptoms. The suspected diagnosis of HD was confirmed by DNA analysis. This new method is very helpful when the first signs of HD cannot be clearly interpreted. PMID- 2522045 TI - Intermediate lymphocytic lymphoma encompassing diffuse and mantle zone pattern variants. A distinct entity among low-grade lymphomas? AB - Intermediate lymphocytic lymphoma has been operationally included among low-grade lymphomas, but few clinical data appeared to support definitely such an inclusion. The clinicopathologic features of 13 out of 14 cases of intermediate lymphocytic lymphoma either encompassing diffuse or mantle-zone pattern variants (ILL or MZL, respectively), diagnosed by conventional histology according to established criteria, are reported. Frozen section immunophenotypic analysis was also performed in 10 cases and enzyme studies were done in five. The 14 cases formed 6.9% of 203 non-Hodgkin's lymphomas (NHL) histologically diagnosed over a 2-year period. Among the 13 cases studied, there were nine males (five with ILL and four with MZL) and four females (one with ILL and three with MZL). Median age was 59 years. Splenomegaly (46%), high stage diseases (100%), involvement of bone marrow (92%) and peripheral blood (38%), and diffusion to and/or involvement of extranodal sites (38%), all were common findings at presentation. The 34 low grade NHL of the total series classified according to the Working Formulation did not significantly differ from the ILL/MZL group in terms of frequency of involvement of bone marrow (69%) and peripheral blood (56%) as well as diffusion to and/or involvement of extranodal sites (26%). In ILL/MZL, therapy modalities were not uniform and the short follow-up time precluded firm conclusions on prognosis. Immunohistology demonstrated that ILL/MZL diagnosed by adequate morphologic criteria is a fairly homogeneous entity, also sharing most of its consistent immunological features with low-grade NHL. Thus, ILL/MZL is a relatively frequent and consistently recognizable clinical and pathological entity that may deserve a distinct place among NHL according to the Working Formulation. Proper clinical studies are needed to establish on a firmer basis the prognosis and optimal treatment of ILL/MZL. PMID- 2522046 TI - Peripheral tolerance mechanisms prevent the development of autoreactive T cells in chimeras grafted with two minor incompatible thymuses. AB - The thymus has been shown to play an important role in the generation of T cell tolerance to self antigens. Developing T cells are readily tolerized to antigens which are expressed in the thymus, and it is generally thought that such thymic tolerance occurs by a mechanism of clonal deletion. We sought to examine whether T cells which initially encountered a "self antigen" post-thymically would be rendered tolerant of that antigen, and if so whether the mechanism of tolerance induction would differ from that found for thymic antigens. We constructed bone marrow radiation chimeras which were grafted with two thymus lobes differing in minor histocompatibility antigens. T cells which matured in one thymus would be tolerized to the minor histocompatibility antigens expressed in that thymus but would not encounter, and would therefore have no early opportunity of being tolerized to the minor histocompatibility antigens expressed by the other thymus. The initial encounter with the minor antigens on the second thymus would occur post-thymically. Would these T cells be tolerant or responsive to those minor histocompatibility antigens? We found that tolerance was dominant in these chimeras. The data further suggest that the mechanism responsible for tolerance induction in the periphery may differ from that which operates in the thymus. PMID- 2522048 TI - Expression and functional role of CD23 on T cells. AB - We have found that approximately 10%-15% of tonsil, but not peripheral blood, T cells express the CD23 antigen following activation with 12-O tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate (TPA), phytohemagglutinin (PHA) or recombinant interleukin 4. The proliferative response of tonsil T cells is significantly increased when CD23 monoclonal antibodies (mAb) are present in the cultures. In contrast, no such proliferative augmentation is seen when peripheral blood T cells are cultured in this way. Supernatant (SN) of Epstein-Barr Virus transformed B lymphoblastoid cell lines (EBVLCL), is found to have a similar co stimulatory effect on the proliferation of tonsil T cells to that seen with CD23 mAb. This effect is greatly diminished by preclearing SN with CD23 mAb. Similarly, SN from a CD23+ L cell transfectant augments the proliferative response of tonsil T cells to both TPA and PHA. The CD23 molecule expressed by TPA-driven T cell blasts appears identical in size to the 45-kDa glycoprotein present on EBVLCL and activated B cells. In contrast, a 42-kDa molecule is observed when CD23 is precipitated from T cells activated with PHA. The results presented here demonstrate that CD23 is expressed on activated tonsil, but not peripheral blood T cells and plays a role, via the binding of CD23 mAb and CD23+ material, present in EBVLCL and CD23+ transfectant SN, in the regulation of T cell proliferation in response to mitogens such as PHA and TPA. PMID- 2522047 TI - Differential secretion of tumor necrosis factor-alpha and granulocyte/macrophage colony-stimulating factors but not interferon-gamma from CD4+ compared to CD8+ human T cell clones. AB - Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) is a pleiotropic lymphokine which may have important regulatory effects on immune responses. It is shown here that eight alloreactive CD4+ T cell clones (TCC) secreted significant amounts of TNF alpha after stimulation with either specific alloantigen or 12-O tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate together with the calcium ionophore ionomycin (up to 50 ng/ml/24 h/10(6) cells) whereas CD8+ TCC failed to do so (max. 2 ng/ml/24 h/10(6) cells). The CD8+ TCC also secreted markedly less granulocyte/macrophage colony-stimulating factor than the CD4+ cells. However, this was not indicative of a general decrease of lymphokine production by CD8+ cells because CD4+ and CD8+ TCC both secreted similar amounts of interferon-gamma. These results show that regulatory CD4+ lymphocytes can produce large amounts of TNF-alpha, whereas CD8+ effector cells cannot do so. PMID- 2522049 TI - Effect of cyclosporin A on T cell immunity. I. Dose-dependent suppression of different murine T helper cell pathways. AB - Cyclosporin A (CsA) is used as a clinical immunosuppressive agent. Despite its immunosuppressive potential, some studies involving in vivo administration of cyclosporin have failed to verify the immunosuppressive activity of this agent. The present study investigates the effect of different concentrations of CsA added in vitro, or of different doses of CsA administered in vivo, on the ability of murine spleen cells to produce interleukin 2 and to generate cytotoxic T lymphocytes in vitro when stimulated with TNP-self or H-2 alloantigens. The results indicate that self Ia-restricted T helper (Th) cells are more sensitive to lower doses of CsA than Th cells that are allorestricted. Thus, doses of CsA were found (15-30 mg/kg) that inactivated self Ia-restricted Th function, but not other Th or effector function. This Th cell defect could be partially corrected in vitro by addition of Th cell factors to the sensitization cultures. A higher dose (75 mg/kg) of CsA inactivated all detectable T cell responses, and this defect was not corrected by addition of Th cell factors. T cell function returned to normal levels within two weeks of cessation of CsA at all three doses of CsA tested. The selective loss of L3T4 Th function at the lower doses of CsA was associated with a radiosensitive, Ly-2 suppressor T cell that was selective in its action on self Ia-restricted Th cell function. Loss of all T cell function at the higher dose of CsA was associated with a radioresistant non-T suppressor cell that inactivated all T cell function tested. These results are discussed with respect to the selective dose-dependent effects of CsA on Th subsets, on the activation of suppressor cells with similar selectivity, and the implications of these findings on the use of CsA to prevent rejection of tissue allografts. PMID- 2522050 TI - Studies on the mechanism of polyclonal B cell stimulation by TH2 cells. AB - Recently, it has been shown that cloned L1/1 T helper cells of type 2 (TH2 cells), when stimulated with antigen, are able to induce polyclonal B cell proliferation. Here we present evidence that this process is dependent on direct cell-cell interaction between T and B cells, which in the effector phase, i.e., during stimulation of the B cells by activated T cells, can be mediated by a mechanism other than cognate interaction. This conclusion is derived from experiments in which highly purified, small B cells of high density were polyclonally stimulated by L1/1 T cells triggered by an anti-T3 monoclonal antibody in the absence of antigen. The triggering process was independent of the presence of the Fc part of the antibody and occurred in cultures devoid of macrophages. Thus, the well-established cognate recognition does not appear to be the only mechanism of B cell induction by T helper cells. PMID- 2522051 TI - Activation of the interleukin 2 pathway precedes CD3-T cell receptor expression in thymic development. Differential growth requirements of early and mature intrathymic subpopulations. AB - T cell activation induced via the CD3-T cell receptor (TcR) complex, or by triggering of polyclonal antigen-independent pathways, involves both interleukin 2 (IL 2) production and IL 2 receptor (IL 2R) expression and results in T cell proliferation. To assess the potential role of the IL 2 pathway in T cell development, growth and activation requirements of intrathymic T cell precursors were analyzed and correlated with the expression of IL 2R. In contrast to CD3 TcR+ (either CD4+ or CD8+) mature thymic cells, CD3-TcR- CD1-4-8- early prothymocytes constitutively expressed IL 2R and displayed IL 2-mediated proliferation, which was inhibited by anti-IL 2R monoclonal antibodies (mAb). Moreover, prothymocytes developed spontaneous proliferation in the absence of exogenous IL 2, which was also abrogated by blocking of IL 2R with specific mAb. The possibility that both IL 2 production and IL 2R expression are autonomously activated early in T cell development, before acquisition of the CD3-TcR complex, led us to study the implication of alternative pathways of activation at this ontogenic stage. Triggering of the CD2 pathway with mAb against two different epitopes of the molecule (D66 and 9.6/T11(1) induced proliferation of CD3-TcR- prothymocytes in the absence of exogenous IL 2, while proliferation of CD3-TcR+ mature thymocytes required Il 2 supplementation. These data suggest that polyclonal activation of the Il 2 pathway may be selectively operative at early stages of T cell development, being involved in the growth and differentiation of intrathymic T cell precursors. PMID- 2522052 TI - Effects of psychoactive drugs on delta sleep-inducing peptide concentrations in rat brain. AB - The concentration of delta sleep-inducing peptide-like immunoreactivity (DSIP-LI) in rat brain regions was determined by radioimmunoassay following treatment with various psychoactive drugs or adrenalectomy. The antidepressant drugs imipramine and zimeldine, given orally twice daily for three weeks, reduced the concentrations of DSIP-LI in the hypothalamus, frontal cortex and cerebellum. The effects of zimeldine were similar but somewhat less pronounced than those of imipramine. The neuroleptic drug haloperidol, given i.p. once daily for two weeks, increased the concentration of DSIP-LI in the hypothalamus, but not in the frontal cortex. A single dose of haloperidol did not affect the concentration of DSIP-LI in either region. Like haloperidol, pentobarbital elevated the concentration of DSIP-LI in the hypothalamus; however, this effect of the barbiturate was seen after single but not after repeated administration. Cortical concentrations of DSIP-LI were unaffected following both single and repeated pentobarbital administration. Finally, adrenalectomy increased the concentration of DSIP-LI in the hypothalamus, but not in the other brain regions. In conclusion, the DSIP concentration in rat brain regions may be altered by a variety of interventions. The most profound and general alterations were observed following administration of antidepressant drugs. PMID- 2522053 TI - Hemodynamic responses to BNP in rats. PMID- 2522054 TI - Metabolic labeling of normal canine rod outer segment phospholipids in vivo and in vitro. AB - Twenty-four hours after the intravitreal injection of [3H]palmitate and [14C]docosahexaenoate in dogs, the rod outer segment phospholipids are highly labeled. Palmitate is found predominantly in phosphatidylcholine (PC), with lesser amounts in phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) and very little in either phosphatidylserine (PS) or phosphatidylinositol (PI). Docosahexaenoate most heavily labeled PE followed by PC, with lesser amounts in PS and very little in PI. Two-hour incubations of 3 mm trephine buttons removed from dog retinas produced very similar patterns of labeling with palmitate and docosahexaenoate. In vitro incubation of retina buttons with [3H]arachidonate produced heavy labeling of PI, with much less in PC and very little in either PS or PE. [3H]Glycerol labeled in PC, PI and PE in descending order but PS almost not at all. [3H]Serine labeled PS predominantly, but small amounts were found in PC, PE and PI. The trephine retina buttons can be utilized for multiple-precursor incubations and studies of differential metabolism in retinal regions, particularly when studying scarce tissue from mutant animals or humans with inherited retinal degenerations. PMID- 2522055 TI - Human T-cell mediated response to homologous lens antigen. AB - T-Cell response to a suspension of homologous whole lens antigen was investigated in three groups: (1) adults with normal eyes; (2) patients with mature and hypermature cataract with an intact lens capsule; and (3) patients, who had had extracapsular cataract surgery or lens injury, some of whom had clinical evidence of severe lens-induced inflammation. The results show that sensitized T-cells occur only in some patients in the third group. To our knowledge, this is the first direct evidence of a difference in the response to T-cells to lens antigen released from mature and hypermature lenses, and to lens antigen exposed by lens injury or extracapsular cataract surgery. The test may be useful to confirm clinical suspicion of delayed hypersensitivity to lens antigen in patients with severe sterile purulent inflammation or milder delayed sterile non-purulent inflammation following lens injury or extracapsular surgery, in the absence of histological proof. PMID- 2522056 TI - Dopamine-induced relaxation in human pulmonary arteries. AB - Dose-dependent relaxations were induced by dopamine in human pulmonary arteries that had been contracted with prostaglandin F2 alpha without alpha-adrenergic blocking agents. The dopamine-induced relaxation was inhibited by haloperidol and fluphenazine, but not by domperidone, suggesting that this relaxation was mediated via DA1 receptors. PMID- 2522058 TI - Transient nuclear location of the IL-2 receptor during T cell activation. AB - Binding of interleukin-2 (IL-2) to its membrane receptor (IL-2R) on target cells is followed by internalization of the IL-2R. The subsequent intracellular fate of IL-2R is not known. This paper describes the intracellular location of the p55 subunit of the IL-2R during IL-2 mediated T cell activation and growth of two mouse T helper clones. IL-2R was visualized by immunohistochemistry using two rat monoclonal antibodies (5A2 and 7D4). Immunostaining shows that the p55 subunit of the IL-2R is transiently present in the nucleus of activated T cells. The intranuclear location of the IL-2R suggests that the p55 subunit, either alone or in conjunction with the IL-2 or the p70 subunit, may be implicated in the regulation of gene expression involved in T cell proliferation. PMID- 2522057 TI - Specificity of the dexamethasone-induced steroid receptor in Tetrahymena. AB - The dexamethasone-induced steroid receptor of Tetrahymena pyriformis specifically binds triamcinolone, which is itself a fluorinated glucocorticoid. It also binds dihydro-epi-androsterone (DHEA) but no or very little testosterone, digoxin or ouabain. It follows that the specificity of the induced steroid receptor of Tetrahymena may only partially be comparable with that of the mammalian steroid receptor. PMID- 2522059 TI - Structure of the ATP-synthase studied by electron microscopy and image processing. AB - The structure of ATP synthase from beef heart mitochondria has been studied by electron microscopy and image processing using negatively stained specimens of detergent-solubilized and membrane-bound molecules. The F1-ATPase and the membrane-embedded F0 sector of ATP synthase are found to be connected by a narrow stalk, 4-4.5 nm long and 3-3.5 nm wide, projecting about 4.2 nm from the membrane surface. The F0 sector has a globular shape, 6-8 nm in diameter and, in part, extends from the membrane lipid bilayer. PMID- 2522060 TI - Functional molecular masses of vacuolar membrane H+-ATPase from Saccharomyces cerevisiae as studied by radiation inactivation analysis. AB - The functional molecular masses of the vacuolar membrane H+-ATPase in Saccharomyces cerevisiae under two kinetic conditions for ATP hydrolysis were measured by radiation inactivation. When vacuolar membrane vesicles were exposed to gamma-rays from 60Co, the activities catalyzing a single-cycle and multi cycles of ATP hydrolysis both decreased as single-exponential functions of the radiation dosage. By applying the target theory, the functional molecular masses for single- and multi-cycle hydrolyses of ATP were determined to be approx. 0.9 1.1 X 10(5) and 4.1-5.3 X 10(5) Da, respectively. N,N'-Dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCCD) did not inhibit the former reaction but strongly inhibited the latter. It is suggested that the ATPase with a minimal composite of subunits a and b, in which subunit c is not necessarily involved operationally, can catalyze single cycle hydrolysis of ATP, whereas for multi-cycle hydrolysis of ATP, the ATPase requires a properly organized oligomeric structure with subunits a-c, which may direct a positive cooperative mechanism of ATP hydrolysis and coupled H+ translocation in a DCCD-sensitive manner. PMID- 2522061 TI - Activation of the purified erythrocyte plasma membrane Ca2+- ATPase by organic solvents. AB - In this report it is shown that organic solvents mimic the stimulatory effects of calmodulin and acidic phospholipids on the erythrocyte plasma membrane Ca2+ ATPase. The solvents used were dimethyl sulfoxide (20%, v/v), glycerol (20% v/v), ethylene glycol (20%, v/v) and polyethylene glycol (Mr 6000-8000) (10%, w/v). These solvents increased both the affinity for Ca2+ and the turnover number of the enzyme. The increase in Ca2+ affinity is additive to that achieved with calmodulin. The calcium cooperativity observed in the presence of calmodulin disappears after the addition of dimethyl sulfoxide to the medium. The present data support the proposal that activation of the erythrocyte plasma membrane Ca2+ ATPase is promoted by hydrophobic interactions along the enzyme molecule. PMID- 2522062 TI - A randomized, prospective comparison of endocrine changes induced with intranasal leuprolide or danazol for treatment of endometriosis. AB - A prospective, randomized trial compared hormonal changes induced with intranasal leuprolide 1.6 mg/day to danazol 800 mg/day for treatment of endometriosis. Both regimens induced anovulation and ovarian suppression in all subjects. Mean estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P) levels were suppressed with both regimens, but were lower with leuprolide. There was no difference in cumulative follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, although at times during treatment mean levels of these hormones were lower with leuprolide. Higher P levels in the danazol group, most likely of adrenal origin, indicated a suppressive effect on adrenal steroidogenesis. Symptomatic improvement was significant in both groups. Laparoscopy after treatment also demonstrated a decrease in endometriosis scores in both groups. At 12 months after treatment, cumulative pregnancy and live birth rates were similar in both groups. Leuprolide offers an attractive alternative to danazol for the medical treatment of endometriosis. PMID- 2522063 TI - Endometriosis: treatment with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist Buserelin. AB - Fifty-one women with pelvic endometriosis were treated with the gonadotropin releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) Buserelin (Hoechst Holland N.V., Amsterdam, The Netherlands) 300 micrograms three times a day intranasally for 6 months. Forty nine women completed treatment; 42 were available for 6 months of follow-up following treatment. Symptoms showed prompt and significant improvement. Follow up after treatment revealed persistent relief from dysmenorrhea and dyspareunia in, respectively, 58.6% and 88.2% of the women, whereas pelvic pain returned to pretreatment scores. Serum estradiol (E2) was suppressed to predominantly early follicular phase concentrations. Laparoscopy at the end of therapy showed significant reduction of scores for implants only. There was no relation between the degree of E2 suppression during therapy and the improvement of symptoms or the reduction of endometriosis. Statistical analysis in 22 infertile patients, of whom 7 conceived during follow-up, revealed no differences in E2 levels during therapy, improvement of symptoms, or reduction of endometriosis. Buserelin appears to be safe, well tolerated, and effective in the management of endometriosis and associated complaints. PMID- 2522064 TI - The fertilization and cleavage rates of eggs recovered from the cul-de-sac. AB - Five hundred ninety-one oocytes were laparoscopically recovered in 93 consecutive stimulated cycles. Fifty-three of the 591 oocytes were collected from the cul-de sac in 39 cycles. The cul-de-sac-originated oocytes had fertilization and cleavage rates of 72 and 79%, respectively; these rates were similar to those achieved in oocytes originating from follicles. A significant decrease in the fertilization rate of cul-de-sac-originated oocytes was noticed in oocytes collected from the cul-de-sac 60 minutes or more after the beginning of the procedure. Oocytes collected from the cul-de-sac yielded 21% of the embryos transferred in cycles where some of the oocytes were recovered from the cul-de sac. These findings indicate that repeated aspirations of the cul-de-sac may increase the number of embryos transferred. PMID- 2522066 TI - [Drug-induced pemphigus diseases]. AB - An overview is given on pemphigus diseases induced by certain drugs. Well known inducers are D-penicillamine, and pyritinol-chlorhydrate. Besides that in some rather rare cases other drugs were connected to pemphigus induction: rifampicin, INH, etambutol, practolol, propranolol, phenylbutazone, aurothiomalate, ibuprofen, heroin, penicillin, ampicillin, captopril, thiopromine, alpha mercaptopropionylglycine and piroxicam. PMID- 2522065 TI - The effect of chronic gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog (D-Trp-6) treatment on elevated and normal serum prolactin levels. AB - A long-acting GnRHa (D-Trp-6 microcapsules) proved capable of lowering serum PRL levels in a young hyperprolactinemic patient treated for a large myomatous uterus. No similar inhibitory effect was found in normoprolactinemia. Chronic GnRHa therapy may constitute an alternative to the existing forms of treatment for hyperprolactinemia and pituitary adenomas. PMID- 2522067 TI - [Local treatment of acne vulgaris with erythromycin]. AB - 2% Erythromycin solution was applied topically in 20 patients with papulopustular acne vulgaris. The treatment proved beneficial and its results were similar to those obtained in the group of patients who additionally received Erythromycin systemically. PMID- 2522068 TI - [Allergic reactions of the immediate and delayed type following prednisolone medication]. AB - Allergic sensitization due to corticosteroids seldom occur and are compound specific, as a rule. They induce various clinical features, in particular urticaria, different exanthematous reactions and contact dermatitis as shown by our observations in 10 patients with prednisolone-allergy. In three cases a simultaneous allergy due to methylprednisolone was found. Impairment of the features or alterations in the clinical morphology after the application of prednisolone suggest the diagnosis, which can be confirmed by means of the scratch and epicutaneous testing and in one patient by the oral exposure, additionally. In addition a delayed-type sensitization to propylene glycol could be proved in three cases, and the same was with romulgin and parabens in one case each. Dexamethasone was used and tolerated as alternative and emergency medication in equivalent doses. PMID- 2522069 TI - [Extensive erosive hemorrhagic lesions in psoriasis plaques caused by methotrexate poisoning]. PMID- 2522070 TI - Sex education and the severely mentally retarded child. PMID- 2522071 TI - Glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol: a versatile anchor for cell surface proteins. AB - Covalent linkage of proteins to glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol (GPI) molecules is now recognized as an important mechanism for anchoring proteins to membranes. Recent structural work on the GPI anchors indicates that the structure of the glycan connecting the protein and the phosphatidylinositol molecule has been conserved during evolution. Attachment of the protein to the GPI molecule is directed by a signal sequence at the COOH terminus of the polypeptide that is removed during the attachment process. Alternative processing of the same RNA transcript may lead to mRNA species encoding for the same protein but not utilizing GPI for membrane anchoring. One function of the GPI anchor may be to offer a site for degradation by specific endogenous phospholipases with release of the protein from the cell surface. The products of GPI anchor degradation may also have biological activity and be involved in cell communication. Although the physiological role of these events is not certain, the available evidence suggests that the GPI anchors play a dynamic and versatile role in the regulation of cell surface protein expression. PMID- 2522072 TI - Inadvertent instrumental perforation of the colon during laparoscopy: nonsurgical repair. PMID- 2522073 TI - Biosynthetic pathways of testosterone and estradiol-17 beta in slices of the embryonic ovary and testis of the chicken (Gallus domesticus). AB - To elucidate synthetic pathways of testosterone and estradiol-17 beta in embryonic gonads of the chicken, metabolism of various 14C-labeled steroids in slices of the left ovaries and paired testes of 15- and 9-day-old chicken embryos was examined. (1) Fifteen-day-old chicken embryos: From pregnenolone, more 17 alpha-hydroxypregnenolone was produced than progesterone in the ovary, while more progesterone was produced than 17 alpha-hydroxypregnenolone in the testis. From 17 alpha-hydroxypregnenolone, however, only dehydroepiandrosterone was detected as a product in both gonads. Dehydroepiandrosterone was converted mainly into androstenedione and its 5 beta-reduced derivatives by both gonads. Progesterone was converted into 5 beta-pregnane-3,20-dione more than into 17 alpha hydroxyprogesterone by both gonads. Both gonads metabolized 17 alpha hydroxyprogesterone, androstenedione, and testosterone predominantly into their corresponding 5 beta-reduced steroids, while production of androstenedione from 17 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone and of testosterone from androstenedione was limited. Estradiol-17 beta was produced from androstenedione and testosterone only by the ovary. (2) Nine-day-old chicken embryos: From pregnenolone, production of progesterone and 17 alpha-hydroxypregnenolone was similar in the ovary. On the other hand, in the testis, more progesterone was produced than 17 alpha-hydroxypregnenolone from pregnenolone. For delta 4-3-oxo steroids, strong activity of 5 beta-reductase was demonstrated in both gonads. From these results, both delta 4- and delta 5-pathways are involved in the formation of testosterone and then finally of estradiol-17 beta by the embryonic gonads of the chicken, and relative preference for the pathway seems to depend on sexes and embryonic ages. In addition, it is suggested that steroidogenesis in these embryonic gonads is characterized by marked activity of 5 beta-reductase, irrespective of sexes or ages. PMID- 2522075 TI - Possible mechanisms of fibrin deposition in the hypereosinophilic syndrome. AB - Patients with the hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES) are at increased risk of thrombosis and have signs of fibrin deposition in the myocardial cavity; the pathogenesis of these complications is still unknown. We have studied a 51-year old man affected by HES with heart, lung, skin, and gastrointestinal involvement. Routine laboratory parameters of the hemostatic system were normal with the exception of blood fibrinolytic activity. The latter was evaluated by both diluted blood clot lysis time and euglobulin lytic activity on fibrin plates before and after 10 min venous occlusion. The fibrinolytic activity measured on four occasions during a 3-month period, was impaired both in basal conditions and following venous occlusion. Platelet studies on two different occasions before and during therapy showed spontaneous platelet aggregation, lowered threshold concentrations of various aggregating agents, reduced platelet regeneration time and increased plasma beta-thromboglobulin concentration. The patient's polymorphonuclear cells (more than 75% eosinophils) were devoid of any procoagulant activity (PCA). Instead, patient's mononuclear cells studied before therapy generated significantly higher PCA on stimulation by endotoxin than cells from control subjects. The procoagulant response to endotoxin decreased markedly during therapy. The observed abnormalities could, at least partially, contribute to fibrin deposition in HES. PMID- 2522074 TI - Contact lens wear is associated with the appearance of plasmin in the tear fluid- preliminary results. AB - We determined biochemically the plasmin concentration in tear fluid from 50 externally healthy eyes and from 49 eyes during contact lens (CL) wear. After cessation of CL wear, samples were collected again from 41 of the 49 eyes. Plasmin was detected more frequently (P less than 0.0001) in the CL-wearing group (75.5%) than in the control group (20%). After the cessation of CL wear (3-21 days), the frequency of plasmin detection in tear fluid decreased significantly (P less than 0.0006) but was still higher (39%) than in the control group. We conclude that the occurrence of plasmin in tear fluid is correlated with CL wear. The proteolytic activity of plasmin may contribute to the development of corneal epithelial pathology associated with CL wear. PMID- 2522076 TI - [Local thrombolysis in peripheral arterial occlusion]. AB - Peripheral arterial occlusions, with the exception of those induced mechanically or by vasospasm, are invariably caused by a blood clot resulting from either in situ thrombosis or embolism. More than 10% of embolic occlusions in otherwise healthy arteries undergo spontaneous lysis due to the organisms tissue plasminogen activator. In thrombotic occlusion of arteriosclerotic vessels, probably due to insufficient activator release from the diseased arterial wall, spontaneous lysis is much less common. For more than 25 years, lysis has been aided with streptokinase (SK) or urokinase (UK) which, until eight years ago, had only been given systemically with a standard dosage of 2.4 million units daily for up to five days. Thrombotic femoral artery occlusions of up to six weeks old were successfully lysed in 48%, six to twelve weeks old in 25% and, in those older than twelve weeks only in exceptional cases. With embolic occlusion, systemic lysis is contraindicated due to the possibility of provoking new emboli. With conventional systemic SK treatment, in 7% of the patients there was severe bleeding which in 1.12% was fatal. The ultrahigh SK treatment (nine million units in six hours) has substantially fewer bleeding complications but no better rate of success. Systemic administration of SK and UK leads to activation of the entire circulating plasminogen and the correspondingly-associated clotting defects. Recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA), the production of which was rendered possible by genetic engineering, is identical to human tissue activator, has a high affinity to fibrin-bound plasminogen, less affinity to circulating plasminogen. After systemic administration, however, the plasminogen in every vascular clot is activated such that, even without alteration of the clotting system, bleeding the emboli can be provoked. With local application of the activator, even extensive clots, provided they contain lysable fibrin, can be dissolved within one-half to three hours with comparably minimal doses. For local lysis treatment of peripheral arterial occlusions, SK, UK and rt-PA are well suited. With a total dose of maximally 30,000 units SK, in contrast to the initially-used higher doses, there were no bleeding complications in more than 300 patients. Even with a total doses of 100,000 to 300,000 UK, albeit in a relatively small number of patients, and a total dose of 2.5 to 7.5 mg rt-PA which was given within three hours maximally to 85 patients, there were no bleeding complications.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2522078 TI - Laser angioplasty in the treatment of peripheral vascular disease. AB - Compared with percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA), the ablation of atherosclerotic tissue by laser energy promises advantages in the treatment of atherosclerotic vascular disease in the peripheral arteries. In the last few years, the basic clinical feasibility has been demonstrated. By development of different lasers and light transmitting devices even the safety of laser energy applied intraluminally has been improved, but to date, no gold standard of laser angioplasty has been defined. Many technological hurdles are still to be overcome and some specific laser-associated problems, especially the high incidence of perforations, has to be resolved before routine application is possible. The future of lasers in vascular diseases seems promising, but there is still a long way to go before reaching maturation. PMID- 2522077 TI - [Results of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty]. AB - Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) can be subdivided into three epochs: 1. from its inception by Dotter and Judkins up to the first coronary artery stenosis dilatation with the Gruntzig balloon catheter system; 2. from the introduction of coronary stenosis dilatation by Gruntzig up to its unequivocal acceptance; 3. the period of influence of low-risk coronary dilatation on peripheral angioplasty and the search for techniques to compliment or obviate the need for balloon dilatation. The Gruntzig double-lumen balloon catheter system contributed to the lower rate of complications and higher success rate. The clinical acceptance appeared greater for the coronary arteries since, in contrast to the peripheral vascular system, the indication for treatment is established by the physician performing the dilatation. PTA implies percutaneous puncture of a vessel with Seldinger technique and introduction of devices such as guidewires, Dotter or Gruntzig catheters among others, catheters with fiberglass for laser conduction and instruments for fractionating, drilling and cutting. The goal of PTA is to completely or partially eliminate, without surgery, intraluminal vascular narrowing in the presence of peripheral arterial disease in stage II, III or IV. Prerequisite to the use of PTA are: 1. adequate fluoroscopic and angiographic facilities; 2. adequate instrumentation; 3. experience with at least 200 procedures; 4. knowledge of the pathophysiology and adjunctive treatment; 5. knowledge of the treatment of complications; 6. cooperation with a vascular surgery service. A number of factors may influence the results of treatment. Adjunctive medical treatment: the use of platelet aggregation inhibitors and heparin influences the rate of early rethrombosis.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2522079 TI - [Rotation angioplasty--clinical experiences in 83 patients with chronic arterial vascular occlusion]. AB - Chronic, total vascular occlusion represents the limit for use of balloon dilatation. Occlusions of the superficial femoral artery and popliteal artery of more than 10 cm in length have a low recanalization rate of 50 to 60% with conventional angioplasty. In iliac artery occlusions, in addition to a high rate of complications, the recanalization rate is only about 30 to 40%. Starting in 1984, we developed a slowly rotating (100 to 200 r.p.m.), electrically-driven, flexible catheter with a blunt tip, inside lumen and outer diameter of 2.2 mm for the purpose of recanalization (Figure 1). The theoretical basis was that such a catheter would seek the soft occluding thrombus as the path of least resistance. Since 1986, the procedure has been carried out in 56 patients with occlusion of the superficial femoral artery, 21 with occlusion of the popliteal artery and six with occlusion of the iliac artery. The duration of occlusion ranged between five and 48 months and the length of the occlusions between 5 and 35 cm (mean 12.5 cm); the patients were in Fontaine stage II and IV, the ankle arm-index ranged between 0 and 0.86 (mean 0,51). After antegrade or retrograde puncture of the common femoral artery and intra-arterial injection of 5,000 units of heparin, the rotation catheter was advanced through an 8F sheath through the occlusion by means of slow rotation (Figure 2). After contrast medium injection to document the intraluminal position of the catheter and the catheter exchange over a 0.35'' wire, the channel created was dilated.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2522080 TI - [Experiences with rotation atherotomy and atherectomy]. AB - In addition to currently available, low risk procedures for reestablishment of patency in arteriosclerotic vascular segments with bougier techniques as described by Dotter and the balloon dilatation modification according to Gruntzig, as necessary together with local thrombolysis, important new developments based on mechanical principles are the atherectomy according to Simpson as well as the rotation atherotomy with a flexible catheter and slowly rotating milling head or rapidly rotating head as used by Kensey. To provide a larger lumen of recanalization, we developed an atherotomy lathing catheter with a rapidly rotating head and various diameters which is now available for intraoperative use. The thrombendarterectomy as described by Vollmar with the "ring stripper" is used only intraoperatively and can only be performed retrograde. The effect of laser systems encompasses disintegration and ablation of occlusive material. The rotation atherotomy is based on the capability of discrimination between hard occlusive material and elastic vascular wall through suitable construction of the lathe head (Figures 1 a to 1 e). Since, in passive catheters, the capability of lathing at the tip is associated with a high risk of perforation and a lateral possibility for lathing is not achievable, the lathing performance should be small, at the center of rotation and orthogonal to the axis of rotation at the outer radius. Through combination with a spherical disc face perpendicular to the axis of rotation, which protrudes only slightly from the hemispherical catheter tip, with a maximum at the center and minimum at the lateral borders, the lathing head has only a slight risk of perforation and no undesired sheering forces (Figures 2a to 2d).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2522081 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor and renin-aldosterone in volume regulation of patients with cirrhosis. AB - The role of the atrial natriuretic factor and of the main counteracting sodium retaining principle, the renin-aldosterone system, in acute volume regulation of cirrhosis of the liver has been investigated. Central volume stimulation was achieved in 21 patients with cirrhosis, 11 without and 10 with ascites, and 25 healthy controls by 1-hr head-out water immersion. Immersion prompted a highly significant (p less than 0.001) increase of atrial natriuretic factor plasma concentrations in cirrhotic patients without ascites from 8.5 +/- 1.3 fmoles per ml to 16.5 +/- 2.6 fmoles per ml, comparable to the stimulation in control subjects (6.0 +/- 0.6 fmoles per ml to 13.6 +/- 2.6 fmoles per ml). In cirrhotic patients with ascites, atrial natriuretic factor increase (from 7.7 +/- 1.3 fmoles per ml to 11.4 +/- 2.3 fmoles per ml) was blunted (p less than 0.05). Plasma renin activity and plasma aldosterone concentration were elevated in cirrhotic patients, especially in the presence of ascites. Following immersion, plasma renin activity and plasma aldosterone concentration were reduced similarly in all groups. Water immersion induced a more pronounced natriuresis and diuresis in control subjects than in cirrhotic patients. Neither atrial natriuretic factor nor plasma renin activity nor plasma aldosterone concentration alone correlated to sodium excretion. However, atrial natriuretic factor to plasma aldosterone concentration ratios were closely correlated to basal and stimulated natriuresis in cirrhotic patients, particularly in those with ascites. These data suggest that atrial natriuretic factor and the renin-aldosterone system influence volume regulation in patients with cirrhosis. PMID- 2522083 TI - Controversy concerning paternal age effect in 47,+21 Down's syndrome. PMID- 2522082 TI - Isolation and characterization of the complete human beta-myosin heavy chain gene. AB - The entire gene coding for the human beta-myosin heavy chain has been isolated from genomic EMBL3A phage libraries by chromosomal walking starting from clone gMHC-1, reported earlier (Appelhans and Vosberg 1983). gMHC-1 has been shown to carry coding information for the C-terminal two-thirds of beta-myosin heavy chain, which is expressed in cardiac muscle and in slow skeletal muscle fibers (Lichter et al. 1986). Three DNA clones were identified as overlapping with gMHC 1 by restriction mapping and DNA sequencing. They span a 30-kb region in the genome. About 22 kb extend from the initiation codon ATG to the poly(A) addition site. The clones include about 4 kb of 5' flanking sequences upstream of the promoter. Comparisons of beta- and alpha-myosin heavy chain sequences indicate that gene duplication of the cardiac myosin heavy chain isogenes preceded the mammalian species differentiation. PMID- 2522084 TI - Tolerance to self antigens shapes the T-cell repertoire. PMID- 2522085 TI - Mls and tolerance. PMID- 2522087 TI - T-cell reactivity and tolerance to Mlsa-encoded antigens. PMID- 2522086 TI - T-cell responses to Mls and to bacterial proteins that mimic its behavior. PMID- 2522088 TI - Complications of spinal anesthesia. PMID- 2522089 TI - Structural analysis of the carboxy terminus of bacteriophage lambda repressor determined by antipeptide antibodies. AB - To analyze lambda repressor function and structure, antibodies were generated with synthetic peptides corresponding to sequences believed to be involved in prophage induction. These site-directed antibodies seemed to recognize preferentially the primary sequence of repressor because they reacted better in competition experiments with the oligopeptide and with the partially denatured forms of repressor than with the native molecules. This information, together with the characteristic ability of the antibodies to immunoprecipitate or react with repressor in immunoblots, allowed us to infer some conformational properties of the specific regions that the antibodies recognized. The antibodies reacted less with some mutant repressors that had a single amino acid substitution within the cognitive sequences. RecA-catalyzed cleavage of repressor was inhibited to different extents in relation to the proportion of repressor that each antipeptide immunoglobulin G (IgG) was able to immunoprecipitate. The antipeptide IgGs did not affect specific binding of repressor to operator DNA, whereas the antirepressor IgG was inhibitory. The three different IgGs competed for binding to repressor in an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay additivity test, which suggested that the three regions of conserved amino acids are probably located on the same side of the carboxyl domain of repressor and possibly close together in the tertiary structure. PMID- 2522090 TI - Defective gamma subunit of ATP synthase (F1F0) from Escherichia coli leads to resistance to aminoglycoside antibiotics. AB - A strain of Escherichia coli which was derived from a gentamicin-resistant clinical isolate was found to be cross-resistant to neomycin and streptomycin. The molecular nature of the genetic defect was found to be an insertion of two GC base pairs in the uncG gene of the mutant. The insertion led to the production of a truncated gamma subunit of 247 amino acids in length instead of the 286 amino acids that are present in the normal gamma subunit. A plasmid which carried the ATP synthase genes from the mutant produced resistance to aminoglycoside antibiotics when it was introduced into a strain with a chromosomal deletion of the ATP synthase genes. Removal of the genes coding for the beta and epsilon subunits abolished antibiotic resistance coded by the mutant plasmid. The relationship between antibiotic resistance and the gamma subunit was investigated by testing the antibiotic resistance of plasmids carrying various combinations of unc genes. The presence of genes for the F0 portion of the ATP synthase in the presence or absence of genes for the gamma subunit was not sufficient to cause antibiotic resistance. alpha, beta, and truncated gamma subunits were detected on washed membranes of the mutant by immunoblotting. The first 247 amino acid residues of the gamma subunit may be sufficient to allow its association with other F1 subunits in such a way that the proton gate of F0 is held open by the mutant F1. PMID- 2522091 TI - Escherichia coli DnaK and GrpE heat shock proteins interact both in vivo and in vitro. AB - Previous studies have demonstrated that the Escherichia coli dnaK and grpE genes code for heat shock proteins. Both the Dnak and GrpE proteins are necessary for bacteriophage lambda DNA replication and for E. coli growth at all temperatures. Through a series of genetic and biochemical experiments, we have shown that these heat shock proteins functionally interact both in vivo and in vitro. The genetic evidence is based on the isolation of mutations in the dnaK gene, such as dnaK9 and dnaK90, which suppress the Tr- phenotype of bacteria carrying the grpE280 mutation. Coimmunoprecipitation of DnaK+ and GrpE+ proteins from cell lysates with anti-DnaK antibodies demonstrated their interaction in vitro. In addition, the DnaK756 and GrpE280 mutant proteins did not coimmunoprecipitate efficiently with the GrpE+ and DnaK+ proteins, respectively, suggesting that interaction between the DnaK and GrpE proteins is necessary for E. coli growth, at least at temperatures above 43 degrees C. Using this assay, we found that one of the dnaK suppressor mutations, dnaK9, reinstated a protein-protein interaction between the suppressor DnaK9 and GrpE280 proteins. PMID- 2522092 TI - Extent of the DNA sequence required in integration of staphylococcal bacteriophage L54a. AB - We characterized the minimum length of the DNA sequence of the attachment sites involved in the integrative recombination of staphylococcal bacteriophage L54a. A DNA fragment carrying the functional viral attachment site (attP) or the bacterial attachment site (attB) was sequentially trimmed, recloned, and tested for integrative recombination in vivo. The size of the functional attP site was at least 228 base pairs (bp) but no more than 235 bp. The left endpoint of the attP site was located to between positions -142 and -140, whereas the right endpoint was located to between positions +86 and +93 with respect to the center of the core sequence. The attB site was located to within a 27-bp sequence, from position -15 to +12, which included the 18-bp core sequence. PMID- 2522093 TI - In vivo control of gluconeogenesis in wild-type Neurospora crassa and in the adenylate cyclase-deficient cr-1 (crisp) mutant. AB - The rate of cycloheximide-resistant incorporation of carbon from [14C]alanine and [14C]acetate into polysaccharidic material was used to study gluconeogenic activity in wild-type Neurospora crassa and in the adenylate cyclase-deficient cr 1 (crisp-1) mutant. The wild-type efficiently utilized alanine and acetate as gluconeogenic substrates, whereas the mutant used acetate efficiently but was unable to use alanine. Cycloheximide-resistant 14C-incorporating activity was sensitive to carbon catabolite effects (repression and inactivation) in the two strains, which suggested that cyclic AMP metabolism was not involved in these regulatory responses. In the wild type, gluconeogenesis was induced by incubation of the cells in the absence of a carbon source. In contrast, cr-1 required supplementation with acetate. This finding suggested that induction of gluconeogenesis in N. crassa could be mediated by metabolites formed in carbon starved cells. The cr-1 mutant seemed to be deficient in this process and to depend on an exogenous effector to induce gluconeogenesis. Incubation of cr-1 with cyclic AMP partially overcame the acetate requirement for induction of gluconeogenesis. PMID- 2522094 TI - 13N isotope studies of glutamine assimilation pathways in Neurospora crassa. AB - L-[amide-13N]glutamine in Neurospora crassa is metabolized to [13N]glutamate by glutamate synthase and to [13N]ammonium by the glutamine transaminase-omega amidase pathway. The [13N]ammonium released is assimilated by glutamate dehydrogenase and glutamine synthetase, confirming the operation of a glutamine cycle. Most of the nitrogen is retained during cycling between glutamate and glutamine. PMID- 2522095 TI - Effect of photofrin II and light energy on retinoblastoma-like cells in vitro. Dose-response relationships, effect of light dose rate and recovery ratio. AB - A clonogenic survival assay on retinoblastoma-like cells (EXP-5 cells) was applied in vitro to assess the effect of photodynamic therapy at relative low concentrations of photofrin II and high doses of light energy. The cellular concentration of photofrin II was estimated by spectrofluorimetry. The cellular content of photofrin II increased with the concentration in the medium (up to 3 micrograms/ml) and the incubation time (up to 24 h) in cells first incubated in photofrin II for 24 h and then in photofrin-II-free medium for 24 h. There was an obvious dose-response relationship between cell damage and photodynamic therapy both for the cellular photofrin II content and the total amount of light energy delivered. The dose rate of light energy had no influence on the cell damage. The cells had a recovery factor of only 1.34, suggesting a low repair of sublethal damage. An approximately linear isoeffect curve at the 10% survival level was described as a function of photofrin II concentration and light energy, suggesting a predictable reversible relationship between them. The results suggest that retinoblastoma cells are very sensitive to photodynamic therapy. PMID- 2522096 TI - Growth and partial differentiation of presumptive human cardiac myoblasts in culture. AB - A cell culture model for human cardiac myogenesis is introduced. Human fetal myocardial cells were dissociated enzymatically, and cultured in a mitogen-rich medium that promoted the growth of presumptive cardiac myoblasts. Strains of human cardiac myoblasts were generated from different anatomical regions of the fetal heart. The cells could be cultured for at least 30 generations, or frozen and recovered for later use. Differentiation was induced by culturing the cardiac myoblasts in a mitogen-poor medium. Differentiation of cardiac myoblasts was marked primarily by transcriptional activation of the atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) gene. Evidence is presented that posttranscriptional processing of ANF transcripts is affected by the anatomical origin of the cardiac myoblasts and the presence of cocultured neuronal cells. Cardiac myoblasts induced to differentiate in culture synthesized only low levels of sarcomeric myosin and cardiac alpha actin, suggesting that differentiation of these cells progresses through two phases: an initial, noncontractile phase that is represented by the differentiating cultured cells; and a later contractile phase, in which myofibrillar assembly is accentuated and modulated by secondary signals from the cardiac milieu. PMID- 2522098 TI - Intermittent headaches and blurred vision. PMID- 2522099 TI - Hypothyroidism in a child with Down syndrome. PMID- 2522097 TI - Differential extractability of influenza virus hemagglutinin during intracellular transport in polarized epithelial cells and nonpolar fibroblasts. AB - Biochemical changes in the influenza virus hemagglutinin during intracellular transport to the apical plasma membrane of epithelial cells were investigated in Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells and in LLC-PK1 cells stably transfected with a hemagglutinin gene. After pulse-labeling a substantial fraction of hemagglutinin was observed to become insoluble in isotonic solutions of Triton X 100. Insolubility of hemagglutinin was detected late in the transport pathway after addition of complex sugars in the Golgi complex but before insertion of the protein in the plasma membrane. Insolubility was not dependent on oligosaccharide modification since deoxymannojirimycin (dMM), which inhibits mannose trimming, failed to prevent its onset. Insolubility was not due to assembly of virus particles at the plasma membrane because insoluble hemagglutinin was also observed in transfected cells. Hemagglutinin insolubility was also seen in MDCK cells cultured in suspension and in chick embryo fibroblasts, indicating that insolubility and plasma membrane polarity are not simply correlated. In addition to insolubility, an apparent transport-dependent reduction of the disulfide bond linking HA1 and HA2 in hemagglutinin was detected. Because of the timing of both insolubility and the loss of the disulfide bond, these modifications may be important in the delivery of the hemagglutinin to the cell surface. PMID- 2522100 TI - Spinal manipulation for back pain. AB - It appears that the lack of good scientific research regarding spinal manipulation has fueled skepticism and deterred many physicians from learning its indications, contraindications, and techniques. Overall, there is sufficient evidence supporting spinal manipulative therapy in the short-term management of back pain. Further research is required to evaluate its long-term effectiveness and to better define the most appropriate indications for its use. With the recent increase in scientific research and improved studies in the future, spinal manipulation should be better understood by the medical profession as another option for the treatment of back pain. PMID- 2522101 TI - Sustained saline-induced secretion of atrial natriuretic hormone is not maintained by atrial stretch. AB - To determine the relationship between changes in right and left atrial pressures and changes in plasma levels of immunoreactive atrial natriuretic hormone (ANH), 11 normal men were studied during rapid infusion of 1 L 150 mmol/L NaCl. Right atrial pressure, pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, and peripheral plasma ANH levels were measured serially for 30 min in 6 men and for 90 min in 5 men. There were significant increases in right atrial pressure at 15 and 30 min [4.8 +/- 0.4 (+/- SE) vs. 8.9 +/- 0.3 and 6.5 +/- 0.4 mm Hg; P less than 0.001] and in pulmonary capillary wedge pressure at the same time intervals [8.5 +/- 0.6 vs. 13.6 +/- 0.8 (P less than 0.001) and 10.6 +/- 0.6 mm Hg (P less than 0.01)]. Plasma ANH increased significantly at 30 min (11.5 +/- 2.4 vs. 20.6 +/- 3.0 pmol/L; P less than 0.001). Regression analysis revealed no correlation between the increase in plasma ANH at 30 min and the increase in either right atrial or pulmonary capillary wedge pressure at 15 min (r = 0.46; P = 0.16 for right atrial pressure; r = 0.02; P = 0.96 for pulmonary capillary wedge pressure). In the 5 men studied for 90 min, right atrial and pulmonary capillary wedge pressures returned to basal values by 45 min. In contrast, plasma ANH levels remained significantly elevated at all sampling times from 30-90 min (P less than 0.001); the peak value occurred at 75 min. We conclude that ANH secretion persists after saline infusion and that the cause of this prolonged secretion is not atrial stretch. PMID- 2522102 TI - Stretch-induced atriopeptin secretion in the isolated rat myocyte and its negative modulation by calcium. AB - Cellular mechanism(s) regulating atriopeptin secretion and processing by the atrial myocyte are currently unknown. Osmotic stretch of isolated atrial myocytes as well as potassium chloride depolarization were potent stimuli of atriopeptin secretion. Release was potentiated by buffering either extracellular calcium with EGTA or intracellular calcium with the intracellular chelator, BAPTA AM. Atrial release of atriopeptin was inhibited after administration of ionomycin which elevates intracellular calcium. Fetal or early neonatal ventricular myocytes actively synthesize atriopeptin. Atriopeptin secretion by ventricular myocytes was also markedly potentiated by osmotic stretch as well as KCl depolarization. Only the 126 amino acid prohormone was secreted by the stretch-stimulated atrial and ventricular myocyte. These data suggest that stretch of the myocyte plasma membrane is a major stimulus for atriopeptin secretion and that atriopeptin secretion is not stimulated by raising intracellular calcium and appears to be negatively modulated by this cation. Like the atrial myocyte, the ventricular myocyte possesses the cellular mechanism(s) necessary to secrete atriopeptin by a regulated mechanism. PMID- 2522103 TI - Antigen-specific immunosuppression in visceral leishmaniasis is cell mediated. AB - Visceral leishmaniasis is associated with an antigen-specific immunosuppression during the acute disease. Patients become responsive to Leishmania antigen in both in vivo and in vitro assays after successful antimony therapy. The cell type involved in the suppression of lymphocyte reactivity to Leishmania antigen was studied by selective depletion of mononuclear cell (MNC) populations and in co cultivation experiments. Adherent cells were depleted on plastic and by passage on nylon wool columns. High-avidity Fc+ cells were depleted by adherence to BSA anti-BSA complexes and OKT4+ and OKT8+ cells were depleted by treatment with monoclonal antibody (anti-OKT4+ and OKT8+) and complement. Depletion of MNC preparations of adherent cells, high-avidity Fc+ cells, OKT4+ cells and OKT8+ cells failed to restore the lymphocyte reactivity to Leishmania antigen. Antimony therapy was associated with restoration of the proliferative responses of unseparated MNC (before treatment 460 +/- 76 cpm and after treatment 4,293 +/- 1,442 cpm). Co-culture of frozen cells obtained before chemotherapy with autologous MNC obtained after treatment reduced the response of posttreatment cells to Leishmania antigen by 80%. We conclude that the antigenic specific suppression of lymphocyte proliferation in visceral leishmaniasis is cell mediated. PMID- 2522104 TI - Molybdenum cofactor biosynthesis in humans. Identification of two complementation groups of cofactor-deficient patients and preliminary characterization of a diffusible molybdopterin precursor. AB - Molybdenum cofactor deficiency is a devastating disease with affected patients displaying the symptoms of a combined deficiency of sulfite oxidase and xanthine dehydrogenase. Because of the extreme lability of the isolated, functional molybdenum cofactor, direct cofactor replacement therapy is not feasible, and a search for stable biosynthetic intermediates was undertaken. From studies of cocultured fibroblasts from affected individuals, two complementation groups were identified. Coculture of group A and group B cells, without heterokaryon formation, led to the appearance of active sulfite oxidase. Use of conditioned media indicated that a relatively stable, diffusible precursor produced by group B cells could be used to repair sulfite oxidase in group A recipient cells. Although the extremely low levels of precursor produced by group B cells preclude its direct characterization, studies with a heterologous, in vitro reconstitution system suggest that the precursor that accumulates in group B cells is the same as a molybdopterin precursor identified in the Neurospora crassa molybdopterin mutant nit-1, and that a converting enzyme is present in group A cells which catalyzes an activation reaction analogous to that of a converting enzyme identified in the Escherichia coli molybdopterin mutant ChlA1. PMID- 2522107 TI - Single-channel vibrotactile supplements to visual perception of intonation and stress. AB - Two experiments were conducted to explore the effectiveness of a single vibrotactile stimulator to convey intonation (question versus statement) and contrastive stress (on one of the first three words of four 4- or 5-word sentences). In experiment I, artificially deafened normal-hearing subjects judged stress and intonation in counterbalanced visual-alone and visual-tactile conditions. Six voice fundamental frequency-to-tactile transformations were tested. Two sentence types were voiced throughout, and two contained unvoiced consonants. Benefits to speechreading were significant, but small. No differences among transformations were observed. In experiment II, only the tactile stimuli were presented. Significant differences emerged among the transformations, with larger differences for intonation than for stress judgments. Surprisingly, tactile-alone intonation identification was more accurate than visual-tactile for several transformations. PMID- 2522105 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor in chronic obstructive lung disease with pulmonary hypertension. Physiological correlates and response to peptide infusion. AB - To investigate the physiological role of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) in patients with hypoxic pulmonary hypertension secondary to chronic obstructive lung disease (COLD), we infused synthetic alpha-human ANF in seven such patients, and investigated the physiological correlates to circulating peptide levels in 24 patients with COLD. ANF infusion, at incremental rates of 0.01, 0.03, and 0.1 micrograms/kg.min, increased basal plasma immunoreactive (ir) ANF (136 +/- 38 pg/ml) by 3-, 10-, and 26-fold, respectively, and reduced pulmonary artery pressure (from 33 +/- 3 to 25 +/- 2 mmHg, P less than 0.001) and systemic arterial pressure (from 88 +/- 4 to 79 +/- 4 mmHg, P less than 0.001) in a dose related fashion. Cardiac index increased by 13.5% (P less than 0.01) while heart rate was unchanged. Cardiac filling pressures decreased at 0.1 micrograms/kg.min ANF. Pulmonary and systemic vascular resistance fell by 37% (P less than 0.001) and 19% (P less than 0.001), respectively. Arterial oxygenation was impaired during ANF infusion, suggesting partial reversal of hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction. Plasma renin activity remained unchanged but aldosterone fell by 44% (P less than 0.01). The levels of plasma irANF in 24 patients correlated directly with the degree of hemoconcentration (r = 0.67, P less than 0.001), respiratory acidosis (r = -0.65, P less than 0.001), and pulmonary hypertension (r = 0.52, P less than 0.01). The results suggest that ANF may serve as a potent pulmonary vasodilator involved in the circulatory homeostasis of patients with COLD. PMID- 2522108 TI - Depression and tetrahydrobiopterin: the folate connection. AB - Total biopterin, neopterin and creatinine were measured in spot urine samples from affective disorder patients on lithium therapy and control subjects. Folic acid was also measured in plasma in a sample of the patients. The mean neopterin: biopterin ratio was significantly higher in the 76 patients (3.2 +/- 0.5) than in the 61 controls (1.8 +/- 0.1). In female patients biopterin levels were significantly lower than in controls. In the control groups there was a significant correlation between the molar concentration of neopterin and biopterin. No such correlation was found in the patients. These data indicate that tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) biosynthesis is reduced in this group. A significant positive correlation was found between plasma folate and urinary biopterin. It is suggested that folate deficiency may impair the synthesis of BH4, a cofactor essential for the synthesis of 5-HT and other monoamines that are involved in the pathogenesis of affective disorders. PMID- 2522106 TI - Chinese hamster ovary cell adhesion to human platelet thrombospondin is dependent on cell surface heparan sulfate proteoglycan. AB - Thrombospondin is a 420-kD platelet alpha-granule glycoprotein that binds specifically to heparin. We examined adhesion to thrombospondin of CHO K1 cells and three mutant CHO lines with varying deficiencies in glycosaminoglycan (GAG) synthesis. In an experiment in which the parent line (K1) had 78% adherence to thrombospondin adsorbed to tissue culture plastic, CHO S745 cells, with less than 6% normal GAG synthesis had 11% adherence. CHO S677 cells, with decreased heparan sulfate proteoglycan but increased chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan, had 42% adherence. CHO S803 cells, with decreased heparan sulfate proteoglycan and normal chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan, had 31% adherence. Heparin inhibited K1 cell adhesion to thrombospondin, but not fibronectin, in a concentration-dependent manner. Dermatan sulfate but not chondroitin sulfate was also inhibitory. There was markedly decreased K1 cell adhesion to a thrombospondin core fragment that lacked the heparin binding NH2-terminal domain. Purified heparin binding domain, although poorly adhesive when adsorbed to substratum, inhibited cell adhesion to intact thrombospondin. Adhesion was better for all cell lines tested, including three human tumor cell lines, when thrombospondin was adsorbed at pH 4.0 compared with pH 7.4. When adsorption of thrombospondin was done at pH 7.4, cell adhesion was better when thrombospondin was adsorbed in the presence of greater than or equal to 0.6 mM calcium, compared to 0.1 mM calcium or EDTA. These findings suggest that thrombospondin can adsorb to plastic with varying degrees of exposure of a cell adhesion domain. We conclude that the thrombospondin cell adhesion receptor on CHO cells is a heparan sulfate proteoglycan, and that cell adhesion to thrombospondin depends on conformation of adsorbed thrombospondin. PMID- 2522109 TI - Specificity of lactate response in panic disorder, panic with concurrent depression and major depression. AB - Lactate infusions with 0.5 molar sodium lactate in a dose of 10 ml/kg within 20 min were given to patients with panic disorder (n = 6), panic attacks with concurrent major depression (n = 7) and major depression without panic (n = 5). Lactate-induced anxiety and symptom attacks without panic were seen more often in the groups with panic attacks, but a full-blown panic attack was provoked in only four subjects, all belonging to the groups with a history of panic attacks. The low incidence of lactate-induced panic attacks can be explained by differences in the procedure that aimed at reducing expectancy biases and baseline anxiety. PMID- 2522111 TI - The relationship between premenstrual dysphoria and daily ratings dimensions. AB - This study assessed the relationship between premenstrual dysphoria reflected in the Premenstrual Assessment Form (PAF) and the Daily Ratings Form (DRF) dimensions of dysphoric mood, physical discomfort, energy levels, consumption and levels of alcohol, sex and activity. Reports of 59% of women with PAF Major Depressive Syndrome were confirmed by their DRF dysphoric mood score, compared with 27% of women with PAF Minor Depressive Syndrome. Women with confirmed premenstrual dysphoria (PMS + group) had significantly higher levels of mood dysphoria, physical discomfort and lower energy levels than the control group at the premenstrual phase. Higher levels of consumption overall were reported premenstrually than postmenstrually. There were no significant differences between groups on the dimension of more alcohol, sex and activity. Implications for future assessment are discussed. PMID- 2522110 TI - Sulpiride treatment of acute mania with a comparison of the effects on plasma hormone concentrations of lithium and sulpiride treatment. AB - Sulpiride, in this open study of acute manic patients, had a clear antimanic action with all eight patients responding to sulpiride treatment without the need for other antipsychotic drugs. Plasma prolactin concentrations were increased and oestrogen-stimulated neurophysin concentrations decreased by sulpiride but were unchanged by lithium treatment, whereas TSH concentrations showed a rapid increase following the introduction of lithium therapy. PMID- 2522112 TI - GH responses to growth hormone releasing factor in depression. AB - The growth hormone (GH), thyrotrophin (TSH) and prolactin response to growth hormone releasing factor (GRF) was investigated in 18 patients suffering from major depression with melancholia and in 18 age- and sex-matched normal controls. There was no significant difference in the GH response to GRF stimulation between the patients and controls and in neither subject group was there a demonstrable TSH or prolactin response to GRF. These findings indicate that the pathophysiology underlying the blunted GH response to pharmacological challenge, demonstrated in other studies, must lie at a suprapituitary level. PMID- 2522113 TI - Binary and rate measures of life event experience: their association with illness onset in Edinburgh and London community surveys. AB - This report examines the extent to which a binary stress index (the experience of at least one severe event) and event rate measures were successful in predicting onset of psychiatric disorder amongst 1029 women. Analyses were based upon samples drawn from Edinburgh and London communities. Whilst the binary measures were successful in discriminating cases from non-cases within each sample, they were less powerful than measures based upon the rate at which events (usually severe) had been experienced. The results are discussed in terms of their relevance to issues of the health consequences of experiencing multiple events, and of the duration over which stressful events may have an influence on psychiatric health. PMID- 2522114 TI - The influence of alcoholism on the course of depression. AB - The clinical course of 289 patients with primary non-bipolar major depression without concurrent alcoholism was compared with that of 79 patients with non bipolar major depression with concurrent alcoholism. Neither patient group suffered from dysthymia or current drug abuse. Contrary to expectations, the two groups did not differ on time to recovery from the major depression, time to relapse into a subsequent major depression, or various cross-sectional clinical ratings at 2 years. The two groups did differ on psychosocial status. Although they were equally impaired at index, the alcoholism group maintained significantly lower levels of psychosocial functioning throughout the 2-year follow-up period. Interpersonal relation with spouse was particularly worse among the alcoholic group. PMID- 2522115 TI - Is DST status associated with depression characteristics? AB - Depressed inpatients have a DST non-suppression rate that is several times greater than that of depressed outpatients. To explore what clinical features of depression might explain this difference, 25 depressed inpatients who were DST non-suppressors were compared with 16 DST suppressors, using 70 clinical variables. Those variables that were different between these two groups of inpatients were then used to compare depressed inpatients and outpatients. Three variables that were significantly associated with DST status in depressed inpatients were also found to differentiate between depressed inpatients and depressed outpatients. DST suppression was associated with a family history of alcoholism, with the symptom hypersomnia, and with a younger age at index interview. PMID- 2522116 TI - Psychopathology in children aged 10-17 of bipolar parents: psychopathology rate and correlates of the severity of the psychopathology. AB - Seventy-two proband children aged 10-17 of bipolar parents, matched with 72 control children of normal parents, were investigated using DSM-III diagnostic criteria and multiple sources of information. The psychopathology rate in children (61% in probands versus 25% in controls) was related to the impact of psychic disorders on the children's adaptive functioning. The effect of several variables describing the psychiatric status of both parents and familial environment on the severity of psychopathology in children was analysed. Disordered and non-disordered probands were compared with respect to illness characteristics of their parents, familial environment, personality traits, and IQ by means of canonical discriminant analysis. PMID- 2522117 TI - A sequential double-blind controlled study of moclobemide and diazepam in patients with atypical depression. AB - A double-blind controlled study comparing moclobemide and diazepam in patients with atypical depression was carried out. Statistical comparison of the 14 pairs completing 4 weeks showed that significant reductions in depressive symptomatology as measured by the Hamilton and Carroll depression rating scales occurred in both drug groups, and that diazepam was significantly better than moclobemide. A separate analysis of the 10 pairs completing 8 weeks treatment showed that significant decreases in depression ratings occurred in both drug groups but that by week 8 there was no significant difference between the two drugs for depression scores. Side-effects were minimal, and the most common side effects emerging for both drugs were sleep disturbance and physical tiredness. PMID- 2522118 TI - Sleep EEG and nocturnal secretion of cortisol and growth hormone in male patients with endogenous depression before treatment and after recovery. AB - The authors conducted a sleep-endocrine evaluation among 10 unmedicated male patients with major endogenous depression during their depressive episode and following full clinical remission and drug withdrawal. While abnormally high values for cortisol secretory activity normalized after return to euthymia, growth hormone release and characteristic disturbances of EEG sleep remained unchanged. Whether or not neuroendocrine and sleep EEG abnormalities, which are present in remission, are trait markers remains undecided until premorbid sleep endocrine data are available. PMID- 2522119 TI - The effect of moderate weight loss on overnight growth hormone and cortisol secretion in healthy female volunteers. AB - The effects of moderate weight loss on overnight growth hormone and cortisol secretion were determined in 11 healthy women volunteers who lost an average of 3.1 kg in weight after undertaking a 1000-kcal diet for 3 weeks. There was a reduction in sleep-related growth hormone secretion and an increase in the value of the nocturnal cortisol nadir although mean overnight cortisol secretion was not significantly altered. Moderate weight loss may contribute towards some of the endocrine abnormalities seen in depressed patients. PMID- 2522121 TI - The overlap between depression and anxiety on different levels of psychopathology. AB - Symptoms, syndromes, and diagnoses (DSM-III-R) for depression and anxiety were assessed and evaluated in 150 psychiatric outpatients. It was hypothesized that the coexistence of depression and anxiety within subjects strongly depends on the psychopathological level determined. The results confirmed this assumption. Overlap proportions for symptoms were almost twice as high as for diagnoses (52% vs. 29%). Intermediary rates were obtained for syndromes. Implications of these results for research on anxious depression, often considered to be qualitatively distinct from pure depression or anxiety disorders, are discussed. PMID- 2522120 TI - A revised interpretation of the TRH test results in female depressed patients. Part I: TSH responses. Effects of severity of illness, thyroid hormones, monoamines, age, sex hormonal, corticosteroid and nutritional state. AB - Thyrotropin secreting hormone (TSH) levels were recorded in baseline conditions and 20 and 60 min after thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH) administration (200 micrograms i.v.) in 60 depressed females categorized according to DSM-III. Basal TSH (TSHB) and peak TSH responses (TSHP) were measured using ultrasensitive RIA assays. The use of delta max TSH (TSHP minus TSHB) had no advantage over the use of TSHP since both factors were almost linearly (r = 0.98) correlated. TSHP was largely (72% of the variance) predicted by TSHB. It was suggested that TSHP consisted of two components. The first part was a relative deduction from TSHB. The second part was the newly proposed concept of the residual TSH (TRHR). This part was computed by partialling out the relative effects of TSHB on TSHP by means of regression analysis. In clinical practice two relevant factors should be used to evaluate the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis: (1) TSHB reflecting the setpoint of the HPT axis and (2) TSHR reflecting the latent capacity of the HPT axis to respond to overwhelming amounts of exogenous TRH. TSHB was significantly reduced in severely depressed patients (296.X3, 296.X4) as compared with minor depressives (300.40, 309.00). These differences could be attributed to significantly increased free thyroxine levels and to noradrenergic hyperactivity in the severely depressed females. TSHR correlated significantly and negatively with follicle stimulating hormone levels, age, body mass index and the post-dexamethasone cortisol values. TSHR was significantly reduced in the post-menopausal state. PMID- 2522123 TI - Specificity of symptoms in RDC endogenous depression. AB - The Research Diagnostic Criteria (RDC) define endogenous depression by the presence of a particular subset of depressive symptoms. This typological approach to classification implicitly assumes that endogenous and non-endogenous patients differ only or primarily in this subset of symptoms, rather than simply in severity of all depressive symptoms. We tested this assumption in a sample of 80 patients with a current episode of major depressive disorder. Whereas RDC endogenous patients (n = 53) had significantly higher levels of most criterial symptoms than did non-endogenous patients (n = 27), they differed on almost no non-endogenous symptoms. These findings support the concept of a specific endogenous symptom cluster. PMID- 2522122 TI - Platelet serotonin uptake dynamic changes in depression: effects of long-term imipramine treatment and clinical recovery. AB - The characteristics of the serotonin uptake mechanism were measured in blood platelets of depressed patients before treatment and after 3 weeks and 2 months of imipramine therapy. The results were then compared with data from normal volunteers. In the unmedicated, depressed patients, platelets showed two affinity components of serotonin uptake. Both affinity states differed, in opposite directions, from the platelet serotonin uptake in normal volunteers. In the latter, a two-state model was more difficult to establish. Successful imipramine treatment progressively normalized the platelet serotonin uptake changes seen in unmedicated patients. Those changes allowed the membrane to deal with a wider than normal range of extracellular serotonin concentration; they might reflect neuronal compensatory changes resulting from altered extraneuronal serotonin concentrations and leading, directly or via presynaptic receptors, to balancing them. Imipramine treatment assists the adaptive process and accelerates the clinical recovery. PMID- 2522124 TI - Follow-up study of patients with panic disorder and agoraphobia with panic attacks treated with tricyclic antidepressants. AB - One hundred and seven patients with panic disorder or agoraphobia with panic attacks were studied 1-4 years after treatment with a tricyclic antidepressant. At follow-up more than 80% of the patients remained symptomatic but fewer than half were experiencing panic attacks and only 40% were avoiding phobic situations. Although patients with agoraphobia were more severely ill and had been ill longer than those with panic disorder, their response to tricyclics and eventual outcome was similar to that for patients with panic disorder. Panic and agoraphobic patients who had the most severe symptoms initially showed the least improvement. The results suggest that panic disorder and agoraphobia with panic attacks are variants of a single illness and that, despite its chronicity, this illness has a favorable outcome. PMID- 2522125 TI - The Depression Screening Instrument (DSI): a device for the detection of depressive disorders in general practice. AB - The paper describes the design, application and psychometric properties of a 16 item depression screening questionnaire for use in community surveys carried out in general practice. The instrument was shown to have a satisfactory factorial structure and a high internal reliability. All 16 items showed very significant discrimination between a patient and a population sample and the total score correlated highly with that of two other widely used instruments. When measured against the PSE CATEGO-ID ratings the instrument was shown to have a high degree of validity and the value of the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was high. Sensitivity and specificity levels were presented for a range of cutting points. PMID- 2522127 TI - Infection control practices of Minnesota dentists: changes during 1 year. AB - In 1986, a survey of all licensed Minnesota dentists (N = 2,752) was conducted to determine current infection control practices. In 1987, the survey was repeated with a 45% random sample of all Minnesota dentists (N = 1,357) to monitor changes in such practices during 1 year. The findings indicate that dentists made dramatic changes in their routine use of barrier techniques and also, that rates of vaccination against hepatitis B increased decidedly. Younger dentists had higher vaccination rates and use of routine barrier techniques. Although dentists' reluctance to treat patients with AIDS decreased in frequency, some dentists still refuse to treat these patients. However, a substantial majority will treat patients with other infectious diseases. PMID- 2522126 TI - Psycho-social stress and puerperal depression. AB - This study assessed the role of psycho-social stress in the development of psychiatric disorder during pregnancy and after childbirth. The samples were a consecutive series of women admitted to a psychiatric Mother and Baby Unit with a depressive illness and a random sample of women who had recently given birth. Whereas prepartum-onset disturbances were found to be overwhelmingly stress related, women with a postpartum onset of depression were considerably less likely to have experienced a recent stress event or difficulty before onset. The relative lack of psycho-social antecedents among women who became ill within 2-3 weeks of giving birth strengthens the argument that puerperal depression may have a distinct, possibly biological aetiology. PMID- 2522128 TI - Age- and sex-related changes of the lymphocyte subsets in healthy individuals: an analysis by two-dimensional flow cytometry. AB - The relative and absolute numbers of the peripheral blood lymphocyte (PBL) subpopulations from 156 healthy men and women of different ages (20-99 years old) were studied by the use of monoclonal antibodies (MoAbs) and two-dimensional flow cytometry. The percentage of pan-T MoAb-positive cells decreased with age, which was attributable to a relative decline in the CD8+ suppressor/cytotoxic T cells, more precisely in the CD8+ CD11- cytotoxic T cells. Those of CD4+ Leu-8- helper T cells, CD3+ HLA-DR+-activated T cells, and natural killer subsets (Leu-7+, CD16+, Leu-7+ CD16+ or Leu-7+ CD16-) increased with age. The absolute numbers of most of the lymphocyte subsets examined declined with age except that those of natural killer cell subsets and helper T cells remained unchanged. It should be noted that the PBL subsets differed markedly according to age and sex, the changes being more evident among women. PMID- 2522129 TI - Macrophage factors which enhance the mixed leukocyte reaction initiated by dendritic cells. AB - Stimulator cells for the allogeneic MLR are dendritic cells but not macrophages (M phi). M phi, however, enhance the MLR initiated by relatively low doses of dendritic cells. The present report demonstrates that the enhancement of the MLR is mediated by two factors produced by M phi. One is IL-1, inasmuch as it has a Mr approximately 15 kDa, and both partially purified IL-1 and rIL-1 also enhance the MLR. The other has been identified as granulocyte-macrophage (GM)-CSF. It had a Mr approximately 25 kDa, and is reproduced by rGM-CSF. Moreover, the MLR enhancing activity of both the 25-kDa molecule and rGM-CSF have been neutralized by anti-GM-CSF antiserum. Both IL-1 and GM-CSF have autonomous enhancing activity, but they collaborate with each other in enhancing the MLR. Both factors act on DC to augment their stimulatory activity for allogeneic T lymphocytes. PMID- 2522130 TI - Biosynthesis of complement factor H by human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Regulation by T cell growth factor and IFN-gamma. AB - The present studies were initiated to characterize a 150-kDa molecule with inhibitory activity for C3bBb formation, which is present in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). Therefore, human endothelial culture supernatants (HECS) were analyzed for the presence of human complement factor H by ELISA. It was found that H was present in HECS. An immunoblot analysis of affinity purified H from HECS showed that the size of HUVEC H was identical to that of plasma H. The mean production of H by HUVEC of first passage cultures was 40 ng/10(6) cells/day. The synthesis of HUVEC H was fully inhibitable by the addition of cycloheximide to the cultures, suggesting that H is de novo synthesized. Additional evidence for de novo synthesis was obtained by using biosynthetic labeling with [35S] methionine, immunoprecipitation, and SDS-PAGE. It was demonstrated that, indeed, HUVEC produce and secrete factor H. Two forms of the protein were identified, the 150-kDa form and also a 45-kDa form, both forms have been identified in plasma. The functional activity of HUVEC H is identical to that of plasma H. IFN-gamma induced enhanced synthesis of H by HUVEC, whereas it had no effect on C3 synthesis. Supernatant from stimulated PBMC, T cell growth factor, enhanced synthesis of both H and C3. The present studies indicate that H is produced by HU-VEC and that H may function as an inhibitor of complement activation at the endothelial cell level and, thereby, together with molecules like decay accelerating factor and membrane cofactor protein, may influence resistance of endothelial cells to complement mediated damage. PMID- 2522131 TI - Distribution in clusters of complement receptor type one (CR1) on human erythrocytes. AB - The distribution of CR1 on human E was studied using label-fracture and thin section electron microscopy. CR1 was found to be organized in clusters on unfixed cells and on cells that had been prefixed with paraformaldehyde or glutaraldehyde before labeling. The number of clusters/E ranged from 8 to 20 as estimated from the examination of freeze-fracture replicas of labeled cells. Clusters contained an average of 30 to 75 gold particles on cells from two donors which expressed 462 and 586 CR1 Ag sites/cell, as determined by flow cytometry. In thin section electron micrographs, gold complexes were seen surrounding an electron-dense material protruding from the membrane which represents compact aggregates of CR1. The maximal distance between gold particles and the membrane was 100 nm, which corresponds to the estimated length of the major allotypic form of CR1, as calculated from the primary DNA sequence of the molecule. The distribution in clusters of CR1 on the E membrane may provide the basis for an enhanced affinity of C3b-CR1 interactions on the plasma membrane of the cells and may explain the preferential binding of C3b-bearing immune complexes to E in vivo. PMID- 2522132 TI - Immune deficiency in chronic Trypanosoma cruzi infection. Recombinant IL-1 restores Th function for antibody production. AB - Mice with chronic Trypanosoma cruzi infections are unable to mount primary responses to T-dependent Ag, such as SRBC. Responses to SRBC were restored in vitro and in vivo with rIL-1. The cellular basis of the immunodeficiency and the mechanism of IL-1 action were investigated. B cells from infected mice were capable of normal levels of PFC production when provided with the appropriate signals, IL-2 plus IL-1. T cells from infected mice were unable to provide Th function to normal B cells. However, Th activity was provided by these cells if IL-1 was added to the cultures. Furthermore, T-depleted spleen cells from infected mice did not make antibody in the presence of normal T cells unless IL-1 was added to the cultures. Neutralizing antibody against IL-2 greatly reduced the augmentation by IL-1 of the antibody response of cells from infected mice. Together these results indicate that splenic B cells from infected mice are capable of antibody production, but that Th function is lacking in the spleens of infected mice. These results suggest that the inability of mice with T. cruzi infection to mount primary antibody responses to T-dependent Ag may be due to a macrophage defect lending to impairment of Th function. These results document the potential of IL-1 in restoring immune competence in an infectious disease model. PMID- 2522133 TI - ["Natural history" of arterial surgical restoration below the inguinal region]. AB - Infra-inguinal endarterectomy and by-pass (PSI) are the oldest and more frequently done restorative arterial operations. Here are described the evolution of patients, limbs and PSI and the factors that could interfere with them from the facts gathered since 30 years in literature. Prognosis is serious. PMID- 2522134 TI - A dose-response study of amlodipine in mild to moderate hypertension. AB - The antihypertensive efficacy and suitability for once daily dosing of amlodipine, a new calcium antagonist, was studied in a series of 205 patients with mild to moderate hypertension. The study was conducted double-blind in 13 centres. The starting doses of amlodipine were 1.25, 2.5 and 5 mg, respectively, which were doubled after 4 weeks if normotension or a preset target blood pressure was not reached. Target blood pressure was reached in 25% of patients with placebo, 41% with 2.5 mg of amlodipine, 56% with 5 mg of amlodipine and 73% with 10 mg of amlodipine once daily. The drug was well tolerated at all dose levels and no changes occurred in heart rate, body weight or electrocardiogram during treatment. Amlodipine is a useful new calcium antagonist for the treatment of hypertension producing smooth, dose-dependent blood pressure reductions with convenient once daily dosing. PMID- 2522135 TI - Effects of licorice on plasma atrial natriuretic peptide in healthy volunteers. AB - Ingestion of licorice, 100 g daily for 8 weeks, caused a rise in 81% in plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) concentration in 12 healthy subjects. Mean body weight increment (1.6 kg) correlated with the increase in plasma ANP (r = 0.59; P less than 0.01). The plasma concentrations of antidiuretic hormone, aldosterone, and plasma renin activity decreased. All these hormonal effects, reflecting retention of sodium and fluid volume, were probably due to the known mineralocorticoid properties of licorice. Blood pressure increased transiently and two subjects developed reversible hypertension. The rise in plasma ANP concentration during ingestion of licorice may be considered a physiological response to prevent fluid retention and development of hypertension. PMID- 2522136 TI - The relation between horizontality and rod-and-frame and vestibular navigational performance. AB - Sex differences on Piaget's water-level (horizontality) test are well established but poorly understood. In this article, correlates of female horizontality performance are systematically explored. Across the five experiments reported, it was found that female subjects who failed the water-level test (poor horizontality female subjects) were selectively impaired on tasks that required processing information from the otolith organs. In Experiment 1, poor horizontality female subjects were found to be impaired relative to good horizontality subjects on the rod-and-frame test. In Experiment 2, a relation was found between female horizontality performance and the ability to process vestibular information in a passive transport task. Experiment 3 ruled out poor spatial updating as a mediating factor in this relation. The results of Experiments 4 and 5 indicated that poor-horizontality female subjects perform randomly on vestibular navigation because they cannot judge linear displacement under conditions of passive transport. The linear transport task is similar to the rod-and-frame task in that both require the central processing of otolith signals. It is proposed that one way to solve the water-level test is to imagine, on the basis of prior perceptual experiences, what the water level looks like inside tilted containers. Because of complex visual-otolith interactions, poor horizontality female subjects may experience these events differently than good horizontality subjects. PMID- 2522137 TI - Frequency judgements: the problem of defining a perceptual event. AB - In four experiments the conditions under which frequency judgments reflect the relative frequency of complex perceptual events were explored. Subjects viewed a series of 4 x 4 grids each containing seven items, which were letters and numbers in one of four typefaces. Later judgments of the relative frequency with which particular letters appeared in particular typefaces were unaffected by a warning about an upcoming frequency judgment task, but were affected by both the time available for processing the stimuli and the nature of the cover task subjects engaged in while viewing the grids. Frequency judgments were poor when exposure durations were less than 2 s and when the cover task directed subjects' attention merely to the locations of the items within the grids. Frequency judgments improved when the cover task directed subjects' attention to the identity of the stimuli, especially to the conjunction of letter and typeface. The results suggest that frequency estimation of complex stimuli may be possible only for stimuli that have been processed as phenomenal objects. PMID- 2522138 TI - Bizarre imagery, interference, and distinctiveness. AB - Previous studies have shown that bizarre and common images produce equivalent levels of recall in unmixed-list designs. Using unmixed lists, we tested the view that bizarre images would be less susceptible than common images to common sources of interference. In all experiments, subjects imaged a list of either bizarre or common sentences and then performed some kind of interfering task before recalling the initial list of sentences. Experiment 1 showed that bizarre images were better accessed than common images after imaging an intervening list of common sentences. Also, components of common images tended to be better recalled than those of bizarre images after imaging an intervening list of bizarre sentences. Experiments 2a and 2b showed that interfering tasks consisting of studying lists of common concrete nouns did not differentially affect memory for bizarre and common images. In Experiment 3, labeling and imaging an interfering list of common pictures produced higher recall of bizarre images. Generally, bizarre images appeared to be less susceptible than common images to interference from certain types of common encodings. Importantly, the superior recall of bizarre images was always due to greater image (sentence) access, whereas higher recall of common images was associated with greater recovery of the image (sentence) constituents. Explanation of the precise pattern of results requires consideration of the distinctive properties of bizarre images. PMID- 2522139 TI - Modality specificity of implicit memory for new associations. AB - In previous research we demonstrated that newly acquired associations between unrelated word pairs influence the magnitude of priming effects on word completion tests. This phenomenon of implicit memory for new associations is observed only following semantic study elaboration. The present experiments reveal that implicit memory for new associations, though elaboration dependent, is also modality specific: Associative effects on a visual word-completion test were consistently reduced by study-test modality shifts. In contrast, explicit memory for new associations, as indexed by cued-recall performance, was uninfluenced by modality shifts. The modality effect on completion performance was eliminated when subjects were given brief visual preexposures to, or were required to construct visual images of, word pairs presented in auditory study conditions. The results pose a theoretical puzzle insofar as they indicate that within the domain of implicit memory, access to the products of elaborative processing depends on modality-specific, sensory-perceptual processing. PMID- 2522140 TI - How many memory systems? Evidence from aging. AB - The present research tested Tulving's (1985) ternary memory theory. Young (ages 19-32) and older (ages 63-80) adults were given procedural, semantic, and episodic memory tasks. Repetition, lag, and codability were manipulated in a picture-naming task, followed by incidental memory tests. Relative to young adults, older adults exhibited lower levels of recall and recognition, but these episodic measures increased similarly as a function of lag and repetition in both age groups. No age-related deficits emerged in either semantic memory (vocabulary, latency slopes, naming errors, and tip-of-the-tongue responses) or procedural memory (repetition priming magnitude and rate of decline). In addition to the age by memory task dissociations, the manipulation of codability produced slower naming latencies and more naming errors (semantic memory), yet promoted better recall and recognition (episodic memory). Finally, a factor analysis of 11 memory measures revealed three distinct factors, providing additional support for a tripartite memory model. PMID- 2522141 TI - Dissociation of recognition memory components following temporal lobe lesions. AB - It has been proposed that recognition decisions are based on contextual retrieval of specific trace information, in addition to an assessment of item strength. The retrieval component is maximal after a single presentation, whereas the strength component increases with multiple repetition. We report that unilateral anterior temporal lobectomy (ATL) in the language dominant (left) hemisphere impairs initial recognition accuracy without affecting the rate at which repetition improves performance. The implication that the temporal lobe contributes to retrieval rather than strength during recognition is supported by simultaneous event-related potential (ERP) recordings. In normal subjects, the large ERP difference between repeated and nonrepeated words does not increase with increasing study and is associated with contextual integration in other tasks. Thus, the lack of a repetition-induced ERP difference after left-ATL reported here provides converging evidence for a critical role of the temporal lobe in contextual retrieval during recognition. PMID- 2522142 TI - Orthography and phonology in lexical decision: evidence from repetition effects at different lags. AB - Full- and partial- (orthographic or phonemic) repetition effects for Hebrew voweled and unvoweled words and nonwords were examined at Lags 0 and 15 between the first and the second presentations. For voweled words, phonemic and orthographic partial-repetition effects were equivalent at Lag 0, each about half the size of the full-repetition effect. At Lag 15, the full-repetition effect was reduced to the size of phonemic repetition, which was as big as it was at Lag 0. In contrast, the orthographic repetition effect disappeared. For unvoweled words, the phonemic repetition effect was significant only at Lag 0, whereas the full repetition effect was significant at both lags. Lexical decisions for both voweled and unvoweled nonwords were facilitated only by full repetition at Lag 0. It was concluded that addition of vowel marks attracted the subjects' attention and, therefore, lexical decisions for voweled stimuli were mediated by phonemic analysis. PMID- 2522143 TI - The dependence of lexical relatedness effects on syntactic connectedness. AB - Context effects on lexical decision were analyzed by manipulating lexical relatedness and syntactic connectedness. Related and unrelated word pairs were embedded in syntactic (e.g., "the author of this book/floor") and in scrambled (e.g., "the author the and book/floor") phrases. The sequences were presented serially and subjects made lexical decisions to the terminal targets. In four experiments, relatedness effects were substantial in syntactic phrases but only marginal in scrambled sequences. This result was unaffected by presentation rate or by blocking manipulations. A fifth experiment showed that the relatedness effect in syntactic phrases involved both facilitation of responses to related words and inhibition of responses to unrelated words. These results argue against a role for intralexical priming in on-line reading. They highlight the role of syntactic connectedness and suggest that contextual facilitation depends on the ease of integration of new words with the current text-level representation. PMID- 2522144 TI - Illusory conjunctions of forms, objects, and scenes during rapid serial visual search. AB - "Temporal migration" describes a situation in which subjects viewing rapidly presented stimuli (e.g., 9-20 items/s) confidently report a target element as having been presented in the same display as a previous or following stimulus in the sequence. Four experiments tested a short-term buffer model of this phenomenon. Experiments 1 and 4 tested the hypothesis that subjects' errors are due to the demands of the verbal report procedure rather than to perceptual integration. In Experiment 1, 12 color objects were presented at a rate of 9/s. Prior to each sequence, an object was named and subjects responded "yes" or "no" to indicate whether the target element (a black frame) occurred with that object. Consistent with the perceptual hypothesis, the yes/no procedure yielded the same results as the verbal report procedure. Experiment 2 tested the hypothesis that the direction of migration depends on "frame" detection time. Results showed that reaction time to frame detection was significantly faster in trials in which subjects reported the frame on a preceding rather than a following picture. Experiments 3 and 4 used the standard naming procedure and the yes/no procedure to test temporal migration using more complex, interrelated stimuli (objects and scenes). Implications for the use of the temporal migration effect to study visual integration within eye fixations are discussed. PMID- 2522145 TI - Suppressor T-cell activity in chronic hepatitis B-virus infection: relationship with the presence of HBV-DNA in serum. AB - Suppressor T-cell activity and allogeneic T-cell response to concanavalin A (ConA) were investigated in 46 patients chronically infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV). Thirty-eight patients had chronic active hepatitis, seven of whom were superinfected with Delta virus, and eight were healthy chronic HBV carriers. T-cell suppressor activity was in the normal range in healthy carriers and in patients negative for serum HBV-DNA, independent of the e antigen status. In contrast, the group of patients positive for HBV-DNA exhibited a significant reduction in suppressor activity. Longitudinal studies in patients who cleared serum HBV-DNA demonstrated that suppressor T-cell activity became normal thereafter. These results suggest a relationship between suppressor T-cell function and the stage of viral replication in individuals with chronic HBV infection. PMID- 2522146 TI - Immunogenicity of a yeast-recombinant hepatitis B vaccine in high-risk children. AB - Horizontal transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV) from illicit drug users to their contacts, including young children, can be prevented by active immunization against HBV. Yeast-recombinant hepatitis B vaccines are now available for this purpose, but their potential efficacy in such high-risk contacts has not yet been evaluated. Therefore we gave 20 mcg of a recombinant yeast-derived hepatitis B vaccine to 38 children who were at high risk for HBV infection because they had been institutionalized in a community for drug users in which 8.7% of the occupants are carriers. After third dose of vaccine (at 0, 1, and 6 months), all children had anti-HBs responses with titers of 10 mIU/ml or more, with 81% showing responses greater than 1,000 mIU/ml. At 12 months, the percentage of anti HBs-positive children was 100%, and the percentage of children with anti-HBs higher than 1,000 mIU/ml was 56%. None of the children developed HBV infection during follow-up. Hence the recombinant vaccine was immunogenic, with percentages of seroconversion and anti-HBs titers comparable with those attained in other categories of high-risk children with plasma-derived vaccines. PMID- 2522147 TI - Low-dose (2 micrograms) hepatitis B vaccination in medical students: comparable immunogenicity for intramuscular and intradermal routes. AB - In a randomized controlled trial, 165 healthy medical students were immunized either by the intramuscular route (IM group) or by the intradermal route (ID group) with low-dose (2 micrograms) plasma hepatitis B vaccine (HB-VAX) at months 0, 1, 2, and 6. At month 7, protective immunity (anti-HBs greater than 10 IU/l) was observed in 90% (95% confidence interval [Cl]: 84-97) of group IM and in 94% (95% Cl: 89-99) of group ID; also geometric mean titres (IM: 533 IU/l; ID:541 IU/l) were very similar at month 7. Sixty-six (IM: 29; ID: 37) of 107 vaccinees with anti-HBs less than 1,000 IU/l at month 7 received a 2 micrograms booster injection at month 12. Long-term immunity (anti-HBs greater than 1,000 IU/l) was finally observed in 58% for group IM and 66% for group ID. For low-dose hepatitis B immunization, which reduces costs to about 16%, the IM route is to be preferred in young healthy individuals in view of an ease of administration, avoidance of long-term local side effects, and the known protective immunity of intramuscularly induced anti-HBs antibodies. PMID- 2522148 TI - Recombinant-yeast-derived hepatitis B vaccine in healthy adults: safety and two year immunogenicity of early investigative lots of vaccine. AB - We tested the safety and long-term immunogenicity of two of the early investigative lots of a recombinant-yeast-derived hepatitis B vaccine in immunocompetent adults. Three 10-micrograms doses of recombinant hepatitis B vaccine (Merck Sharp & Dohme Research Laboratories, West Point, PA) were administered by deltoid intramuscular injection at time 0, 1, and 6 months to 65 seronegative adult health workers. Following a complete three-injection course, 98% of vaccinees acquired anti-HBs, 97% at levels greater than 10 mlU/ml, and 95% maintained such "protective" antibody levels at 1 year. At 2 years, 93% retained antibody, but only 68% had levels greater than 10 mlU/ml. In those who responded to vaccination by achieving any detectable level of antibody, the peak geometric mean titer of anti-HBs, measured at 9 months, was 741 +/- 6 mlU/ml; the geometric mean titer fell to 348 +/- 6 at 1 year and to 66 +/- 7 at 2 years. Side effects were trivial, and levels of yeast antibody, as measured by radioimmunoassay, were not changed from prevaccine levels. No serious adverse effects were encountered, and neither type B nor non-B hepatitis occurred in any vaccine. These findings demonstrate that the recombinant yeast hepatitis B vaccine is safe and immunogenic but that 10 micrograms of the early investigative lots of the recombinant vaccine is less immunogenic than 20 micrograms of the plasma-derived vaccine. Recipients of early investigative vaccine lots should be considered for booster vaccination with currently available, more immunogenic vaccine lots. PMID- 2522149 TI - Ca2+-Mg2+ ATPase of mouse cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum is affected by membrane n-6 and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid content. AB - White mice, 18-20 g, were fed purified diets containing two weight percent safflower oil plus ten weight percent menhaden, corn, or olive oil for 2 wk. Menhaden oil ingestion resulted in significantly higher levels of 22:6(n-3) and 20:5(n-3), particularly 22:6(n-3), and lower levels of 20:4(n-6) and 18:2(n-6) in cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) phospholipids than did corn or olive oil ingestion. These changes in fatty acid composition resulted in a significant decrease in the value of the n-6/n-3 fatty acid ratio of cardiac SR phospholipids. The ratio was 2.8 versus 0.2 in choline phospholipids and 1.9 versus 0.2 in ethanolamine phospholipids in SR of mice fed corn or menhaden oil, respectively. This reduction in the n-6/n-3 fatty acid ratio was associated with a lower relative activity of Ca2+-Mg2+ ATPase, and a lower initial rate of calcium transport and maximum calcium uptake in SR vesicles from mice fed menhaden oil rather than olive or corn oils. The specific activity of NADPH cytochrome C reductase (EC 1.6.2.3) of cardiac SR was not affected by dietary lipids. These data indicate that modification of SR by 22:6(n-3) may change the SR bilayer structure resulting in alteration of the calcium transport properties of SR vesicles. In addition, our results suggest that reduction of calcium flux across cardiac SR following fish oil consumption may also reduce the susceptibility of myocytes to rapid changes in calcium concentrations which may occur during ischemia and reperfusion. PMID- 2522150 TI - Management of the oral surgery patient addicted to heroin. AB - A review of the clinical characteristics of heroin addiction and parameters surrounding outpatient and inpatient care of patients afflicted with heroin dependency is presented. A case report demonstrating the difficulties encountered when one elects to treat the heroin addict is included. PMID- 2522151 TI - Cochlear implantation in Quebec city: auditory performance in a recently trained patient. AB - The Quebec Cochlear Implant Research Program has implanted nine patients since 1984. At the same time, we have been developing some original rehabilitative material for these French speaking patients. This paper reports the results obtained with our last adult patient. With his implant, J-P.F. has clearly improved his auditory response to sounds. After the training period, he demonstrated good abilities in detection, discrimination, identification and comprehension of sounds, phonemes, words and sentences. His lipreading has improved. The performance observed with this patient is comparable with the data reported in other studies using the same implant device. PMID- 2522152 TI - Follow-up of renal artery stenosis by duplex ultrasound. AB - We have previously shown that duplex ultrasound is an accurate method of diagnosing renal artery stenosis (93% accuracy compared with angiography in the diagnosis of less than 60% stenosis, 60% to 99% stenosis, or occlusion). With this method we have now serially observed 35 renal arteries with 60% to 99% renal artery stenosis in 27 patients. Nineteen stenotic renal arteries in 15 patients were observed without intervention. There was a significant decrease in kidney size (mean difference - 1.0 cm; p less than 0.01; mean follow-up 13 months) but all 19 renal arteries remained patent. Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) was performed in five patients (six renal arteries) for renovascular hypertension. Renal duplex scanning documented relief of renal artery stenosis in two patients whose hypertension improved after PTA and confirmed residual 60% to 99% renal artery stenosis in three patients whose hypertension did not improve after PTA (mean follow-up 6.5 months). Aortorenal bypass was performed for 10 stenotic renal arteries in seven patients. At a mean follow-up of 9 months duplex ultrasound documented eight patent and two occluded aortorenal bypass grafts. Duplex ultrasound is useful both for defining the natural history of untreated renal artery stenosis and assessing the results of renal artery angioplasty or bypass. PMID- 2522153 TI - Human endothelial cell seeding: evaluation of its effectiveness by platelet parameters after one year. AB - Platelet parameters were assessed in patients after implantation of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) grafts, either nonseeded or seeded with autologous endothelial cells or reversed saphenous vein grafts, during the follow-up period of 1 year. The objective of this investigation was to compare the sensitivity of different noninvasive platelet parameters with the assessment of the result of endothelial cell seeding. Scanning electron microscopic investigation of circulating blood platelets showed a significantly higher incidence of activated platelets in patients with seeded or nonseeded PTFE grafts, compared with patients after reversed vein graft implantation. "Shape-changed" platelets, as well as membrane-perforated thrombocytes, were found exclusively in the circulating blood of patients after seeded or nonseeded PTFE graft implantation, indicative of platelet trauma by the artificial graft surface. Plasma levels of platelet factor IV and beta-thromboglobulin, as well as the uptake of indium-111 labeled platelets, failed to show statistically significant differences after 1 year of follow-up. The similar results for seeded and nonseeded grafts indicate the failure of endothelial cell seeding to induce the development of a nontraumatizing surface, comparable to that of saphenous vein grafts. PMID- 2522154 TI - Treatment of acute renal artery occlusion after percutaneous transluminal angioplasty. AB - Four patients with occlusive complications after percutaneous transluminal renal artery angioplasty (PTA) have been treated from July 1, 1984, to March 14, 1988. During this interval such renal artery angioplasties were performed in 44 patients. Two resulted in complete main renal artery occlusion, one angioplasty resulted in occlusion of a stenotic renal artery bypass graft, and one renal PTA resulted in segmental branch renal artery narrowing, which was thought to represent a dissection. The latter segmental renal artery narrowing was treated expectantly with good long-term results. One of the main renal artery occlusions was treated by radiologic means by reentry and repeat transluminal dilation. The other two acute complete occlusions, one of an autogenous artery and the other of an aortorenal bypass graft, were treated by aortorenal or ileorenal bypass grafting, respectively. The overall incidence of main renal artery occlusion (including the bypass graft occlusion) after PTA requiring operative intervention was 4.5% (2/44). Revascularization was accomplished after 6 and 8 hours of renal ischemia time for the two surgical procedures. Despite this, the bypass grafts done emergently remain patent, and the involved kidneys appear to be functional. The incidence of main renal artery occlusion after PTA is not as low as would be apparent from a review of the literature. It is proposed that main renal artery occlusion after PTA can be treated successfully by surgical and interventional radiologic techniques because of the presence of protective renal collateral circulation whose formation was stimulated by the renal artery lesion that prompted PTA. PMID- 2522155 TI - Hydrophilic guide wire for laser-assisted angioplasty. PMID- 2522156 TI - [Complete remission, obtained by multidisciplinary treatment of recurrent breast cancer with carcinomatous pleuritis, and cervical lymph node and diver metastasis]. AB - A 46-year-old female, who had undergone a radical mastectomy for cancer of the breast 5 years previously at another institution presented a pleural effusion, in which malignant cells were detected, along with cervical lymph node metastasis. Although the patient initially responded to the H-CMcF regimen and intrathoracic injections of adriamycin (ADM), her condition subsequently was exacerbated, with metastasis occurring in the liver. A complete remission however, was achieved by local treatment, which included intrathoracic infusions of ADM and cis-platinum plus hepatic artery infusions of ADM and lipiodol, in addition to a systemic treatment consisting of a modification of the FEMP regimen employing UFT, CPA, MMC, and PDN, to which were added the immunopotentiators OK-432 and MPA. At present, 18 months after treatment, the patient is apparently disease free. The results obtained in this case suggest that even a distant metastasis can be controlled by aggressive local treatment for each metastatic lesion, in addition to a multidisciplinary treatment based mainly on intensive chemotherapy. PMID- 2522157 TI - Sequential hormone therapy with medroxyprogesterone acetate for 7, 12 dimethylbenz [alpha] anthracene-induced rat mammary tumors. AB - Two types of sequential hormone therapy with medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) were examined in female 93 Sprague--Dawley (SD) rats with 7,12-dimethylbenz [alpha] anthracene (DMBA)-induced mammary tumors. Estradiol (E2) priming induced progesterone receptors (PgR) in most cases and, after induction of PgR, MPA often showed an augmented antitumor effect. For this reason, E2 priming + MPA had a more marked antitumor effect on DMBA tumors than MPA alone. Tamoxifen (TAM) (0.1 mg/kg) priming induced PgR more frequently than TAM (0.4 mg/kg) priming. Furthermore, treatment with TAM priming (0.1 mg/kg) + MPA showed a more marked antitumor effect than with TAM priming (0.4 mg/kg) + MPA or MPA alone. In the above two priming therapies with MPA, the latter is more practical for the clinical treatment of breast cancer than the former because the mechanism of action of E2 is usually thought to show tumorigenic activity on breast cancer, while the mechanism of action of TAM is thought to show an antitumor effect. It is suggested that the sequence of administration of MPA after TAM priming may be favorable for the treatment of breast cancer. PMID- 2522158 TI - Immunomodulation of cimetidine in healthy volunteers. AB - The effect of cimetidine, a histamine H2-receptor antagonist, on the immune system in man was investigated in 11 healthy volunteers. Cimetidine was administered orally in daily doses of 800 mg for a period of 7 days. At the end of the administration period the number of peripheral CD8+ (cytotoxic/suppressor) cells had diminished significantly (P less than 0.05) along with a corresponding increase in the CD4+ (helper/inducer): CD8+ (cytotoxic/suppressor) cell ratio (P less than 0.01). Compared with pretreatment values, a significant in vitro blastogenic response to mitogen stimulation with concanavalin A (P less than 0.005), phytohemagglutinin (P less than 0.01), and pokeweed mitogen (P less than 0.05) was observed in lymphocytes of volunteers after cimetidine intake. The cell mediated hypersensitivity as assessed by skin testing of seven recall antigens was also enhanced significantly (P less than 0.001). Using Spearman's coefficient of correlation to compare mitogen-stimulation tests and skin tests of delayed hypersensitivity to the CD4+:CD8+ ratio, yielded a positive correlation (r = 0.89; r = 0.85, respectively). These effects were reversible 96 h after the last cimetidine dose. In contrast, leukocytes, total T lymphocytes (CD2+, CD3+), CD4+ (helper/inducer) cells, natural killer cells (Leu7+), immunoglobulins, and total complement, C3, C4 were unaffected by cimetidine administration. PMID- 2522160 TI - [Occupational atopic hand eczema]. PMID- 2522159 TI - Incorporating utility-based quality-of-life assessment measures in clinical trials. Two examples. AB - The utility approach to the measurement of health-related quality of life is discussed and its theoretical foundations and compatibility with economic evaluation are explained. The advantages of the approach include its generalizability, comprehensiveness, ability to integrate mortality and morbidity effects, ability to represent multiple viewpoints, and its incorporation of time and risk preferences in the scores. Disadvantages include interviewer administration, limitations on obtaining scores from all types of subjects, some lack of precision, and attenuated clinical sensibility. Use of the utility approach as an outcome measure in two recent clinical trials is also described. In a trial of an oral gold compound for arthritis, the utility measures were responsive and added information to that from standard clinical and other quality of-life measures. The utility approach and clinical decision making are being used in an on-going trial of two procedures for prenatal diagnosis in which major potential differences include quality-of-life effects. The comprehensiveness of the utility approach overcomes difficulties in interpreting results from more narrowly focused psychosocial measures of outcome. In sum, the utility model provides a reliable, valid, and responsive approach to measuring quality of life as an outcome in clinical trials. PMID- 2522161 TI - [Importance of controlling immunity after vaccination against hepatitis B]. PMID- 2522162 TI - [New therapeutic possibilities in fulminant viral hepatitis]. PMID- 2522163 TI - [Exercise-induced ST elevation. A case for rapid examination and PTCA?]. PMID- 2522164 TI - X-ray-induced specific locus mutations in the ad-3 region of two-component heterokaryons of Neurospora crassa. III. Genetic fine structure analysis of the ad-3 and immediately adjacent genetic regions by means of complementation tests. AB - Genetic fine structure analysis of the ad-3 and immediately adjacent genetic regions was made by means of complementation tests on all possible pairwise combinations of 50 X-ray-induced irreparable adenine-3 mutants (designated ad 3IR). All mutants were induced in either heterokaryon 11 or heterokaryon 12 of Neurospora crassa, 2-component heterokaryons heterozygous for mutants at the 3 closely linked loci ad-3A and ad-3B and nic-2 (nicotinamide-requiring) located about 5.0 map units distal to ad-3B. The complementation tests involved mutants of the following genotypes: 15 ad-3A, 27 ad-3B, 7 ad-3A ad-3B nic-2 and 1 ad-3B nic-2. To facilitate mapping, 5 additional strains (each consisting of a gene/point mutation at the ad-3A or ad-3B locus and a separate site of closely linked recessive lethal damage in the immediately adjacent regions [designated ad 3R + RLCL]) were also included. The data from these complementation tests showed that the majority (46/50) of X-ray-induced irreparable ad-3 mutants mapped as a series of overlapping multilocus deletions that extend both proximally and distally into the immediately adjacent genetic regions, as well as into the 'X' region (a region of unknown, but essential function) between ad-3A and ad-3B. The remaining mutants (4/50) were found to result from a series of closely linked, but separate, mutations (designated multilocus mutations) of the type ad-3IR + RLCL, different from those found in previous studies (de Serres, 1968; de Serres and Brockman, 1968). The data from the present complementation tests have expanded the process of genetic fine structure mapping of the ad-3 and immediately adjacent regions (de Serres, 1968) and defined the presence of the following 11 genetic loci: (a) 4 loci (with either known [i.e. col-1t] or unknown [i.e. unknA]) function proximal to ad-3A: unknA, unknB, col-1t, and col-2t, (b) 4 loci in the 'X' region: unknC, unknD, unknE, and unknF, (c) 2 loci distal to ad 3B: unknG, col-3t, and (d) 1 locus distal to nic-2: unknH. PMID- 2522165 TI - Epidemiology of Huntington's disease in Rijeka district, Yugoslavia. AB - Epidemiologic study of Huntington's disease (HD) in the Rijeka district represents the first research of its kind carried out in Yugoslavia. After a detailed investigation of all available sources of health information, ten families, with a total number of 24 HD patients, were found. The prevalence rate of HD on March 31, 1981, was 4.46/100,000 population. Most of the patients involved were members from the second or third familial generation. The age at recognition of disease was 41.6 years, with earlier onset among the males. Involuntary movements frequently appeared as the initial symptomatology (45.8%). Duration of the disease from initial symptomatology to death averaged at 10.6 years. Six of nine patients who died had committed suicide. It took physicians of primary care, neurologists, and psychiatrists 5.3 years (1-12 years) to make a definite diagnosis. Nine of the affected families from Rijeka district were autochthonic households. Six of these families immigrated from Saxony, Slovakia and Upper Carinthia during the reign of the Habsburg dynasty (1619-1780). PMID- 2522166 TI - Dopamine receptors in human brain: autoradiographic distribution of D1 sites. AB - The distribution of dopamine D1 receptors has been determined in post mortem human brain tissues using in vitro receptor autoradiography, with ([3H]N-methyl) SCH 23390 as ligand. The highest densities of dopamine D1 sites were seen in the nucleus caudatus, putamen, globus pallidus pars medialis and substantia nigra. Intermediate densities were associated with the amygdala, mammillary bodies, cerebral cortex and CA1. The remaining part of the hippocampus as well as the diencephalon, brainstem and cerebellum contained low levels of [3H]SCH 23390 binding sites. The distribution of D1 receptors in the human brain closely resembles that reported for the rat brain. In addition, there was a good correlation between the anatomical localization of D1 sites and the distribution of dopaminergic nerve terminals in the central nervous system. The densities of D1 receptors in the human brain were observed to markedly decrease with age during the first decades of life. However, no further modifications were found beyond the age of 40 years. We did not observe any significant influence of other parameters such as gender and post mortem delay in our samples. PMID- 2522167 TI - Dopamine receptors in human brain: autoradiographic distribution of D2 sites. AB - We have studied the detailed anatomical distribution of D2 receptors in human post mortem brain tissue using quantitative autoradiographic techniques. D2 receptors were labeled using the specific D2 agonist [3H]CV 205-502 and the antagonist [3H]spiroperidol. The pattern of D2 receptor distribution observed with the two ligands was very similar. The highest densities were found in the nucleus caudatus, putamen, nucleus accumbens and olfactory tubercle followed by the substantia nigra, where D2 receptors were mainly concentrated in the pars compacta. Lower but still significant densities were associated with the lateral part of the globus pallidus and CA1 and CA3 fields of the hippocampus. The medial part of the globus pallidus, the dentate gyrus and the amygdala showed low to very low densities of D2 receptors. Almost negligible amounts of binding were observed in the olfactory bulb, diencephalon, brainstem, cerebellum and most parts of the neocortex. Our results are comparable with previously reported localizations of D2 receptors in the human and rat brain. We also report the lack of the so-called spirodecanone binding sites in the human brain. The localization of D2 receptors is compared with the distribution of D1 receptors. PMID- 2522168 TI - Termination patterns of identified group II and III afferent fibres from deep tissues in the spinal cord of the cat. AB - In chloralose-anaesthetized cats, the impulse activity of single afferent fibres supplying receptors in the deep tissues of the hindlimb (fasciae, muscles, ligaments, joint capsules) was recorded using micropipettes filled with a solution of horseradish peroxidase. Only myelinated fibres with conduction velocities up to 40 m/s (Group III and Group II units) were studied, i.e. fast conducting afferent fibres from muscle spindles and tendon organs were excluded. The fibres were functionally characterized with the use of mechanical stimuli such as local pressure and joint movements. The results show that a relationship exists between the functional properties of a given afferent unit and the location of its terminals in the spinal cord. Since the conduction velocity and hence the diameter of the fibres was similar in all the units studied, these factors appear not to be of importance for determining the pattern of spinal termination. Out of 84 units, 42 were classified as high-threshold mechanosensitive, 26 as low-threshold mechanosensitive, and 16 as secondary endings from muscle spindles. Following physiological identification the fibres were ionophoretically injected with horseradish peroxidase and their trajectory in the white and gray matter of the spinal cord visualized histologically with diaminobenzidine. High-threshold mechanosensitive units took a lateral course in the posterior funiculus and usually did not bifurcate. They exhibited two different patterns of spinal termination, one being characterized by terminal arborizations in both lamina I and deeper laminae (mostly IV/V), the other one by an exclusive projection to lamina I. Low-threshold mechanosensitive units often showed a bifurcation in the posterior funiculus and did not have a uniform termination pattern. The main areas of termination were lamina II and laminae IV VI. The slowly conducting secondary endings from muscle spindles projected mainly to laminae VI and VII with additional collaterals entering the ventral horn. They thus had a termination pattern similar to that reported for fast conducting afferent fibres (above 50 m/s) from muscle spindle secondary endings. With the exception of one high-threshold mechanosensitive unit none of the stained fibres possessed terminal arborization and boutons in lamina III. It is concluded that different types of Group II and III primary afferent fibres from deep tissues exhibit different patterns of spinal termination.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2522170 TI - Audiometric monitoring may reduce hearing loss, compensation awards. PMID- 2522169 TI - Quantitative muscle strength testing: a comparison of job strength requirements and actual worker strength among military technicians. AB - In this study the authors investigate the percentage of mismatch between job demands and worker physical capacity in Utah National Guard mechanics. This population had demonstrated a higher incidence of low back trouble than other job descriptions reviewed. The authors utilized onsite still and videotape photography and a computerized biomechanical strength prediction model to assess loads on the lumbosacral spine due to various job tasks. Job demands were then compared to the actual physical capacity of the individual workers based on static strength testing in job-related positions. A load cell on the testing apparatus entered the force generated into a computer which averaged the force of the last three seconds of a five-second lift. It was determined that as much as a 38% mismatch existed within this population for some job tasks which these workers were exposed to. Suggestions for preventing job-related low back cumulative trauma disorders are presented, including: engineering redesign, worker selection programs, work hardening, and others. PMID- 2522171 TI - Study shows work environments, job tasks may cause back pain. PMID- 2522172 TI - [Determining the current status]. PMID- 2522173 TI - [Ambulatory and inpatient costs for diagnosis and therapy of one AIDS patient at the Frankfurt University Clinic, with special reference to the increasing social problem, including social welfare from the time of diagnosis to death]. AB - Exact cost analysis related to an exemplary case of AIDS disease at the university hospital of Frankfurt. There have been calculated the hospital and out patient care costs according to a completely documented case study. The calculation of the indirect costs does concern the payment of sickness benefit as well as social security costs. PMID- 2522174 TI - [3 types of inpatient psychiatric management--a statistical comparison]. AB - Three psychiatric hospital types regularly involved in psychiatric inpatient care, state mental hospitals, psychiatric departments of general hospitals and psychiatric departments of universities are compared based on statistical data. The main results are: general and university departments are functioning very similarly; they show a low number of beds, a low ratio of beds per 1,000 residents, a short length of stay, a low rate of compulsory hospitalizations and a high level of hospitalizations altogether. For all these data state hospitals exhibit the opposite tendency, though they have reached many improvements from 1972 to 1985. PMID- 2522175 TI - [Hearing handicap in childhood--responsibilities of public health, early diagnosis]. AB - Serious congenital hearing impairment occur in 1 per 1,000 people. Hereditary disease, perinatal complications, and postnatal disease present particular risk factors. Children, who do not hear or are extremely hard of hearing are slow in their language development and thus become retarded in their mental growth if not given appropriate stimulation. The Counseling Center for the hearing impaired was stablished as a multidisciplinary institution of the Health Office of Berlin Neukolln for early recognition of and therapy for hearing impaired children. The average age at initial diagnosis of children with hearing impairment in the Federal Republic of Germany is between 3.3-3.4 years according to statistics from 1981. An effort should be made, however, to use the time before the completion of the first year of on's life for an optimal early therapy. Statistics from the Counseling Center for the hearing impaired indicate that at the present time all children with distinct hearing impairments, born in the FRG and West-Berlin, are diagnosed before they reach 32 months of age and are then assigned to special education programs. The average age of recognizing hearing impairments is 13.4 months. This favorable, however not optimal result can be attributed to the situation of a metropolis and its population informed by special professional events for target groups including employees of theYouth Health Services, established pediatricians and ENT specialists, teachers, social workers, educators, and also to the model of the "Berlin-Neukolln Counseling Center" which has proven successful over the past 30 years. PMID- 2522176 TI - [Evaluation of technical indoor air ventilation systems in operating departments from the health viewpoint]. AB - By means of measurement examples it is shown that the examination of the cfu concentration in the supply-air is not a sufficient criterion for the hygienic microbiological evaluation of air-conditioning systems in operation wards. Maximum upper values for cfu-concentration were only exceeded a little in some cases. Particle measurements, carried out simultaneously, gave further information on the hygienic status of the air supplied by the air-conditioning system and permitted an evaluation of the ventilation system (for example an air supply ceiling with a stabilized air ventilation). An efficient air-ventilation system should have the effect that the air quality in the operation area is of nearly the same quality as the supply-air. On the basis of own measurements maximum upper values and recommended values for cfu- and in particular particle concentrations in the supply-air of air-conditioning systems with three-step filtration were proposed. The set-up and the carrying out of the measurement is described to standardize a "hygienic evaluation" of air-conditioning systems in operation theatres. Help for the interpretation of measurement results is given by means of measurement examples. PMID- 2522177 TI - Incidence of several pathogens and staphylococcal enterotoxins in Kariesh cheese. AB - One hundred samples of Kariesh cheese were randomly collected from Fayoum markets and examined for the incidence of enterococci, coliform organisms, staphylococci, Salmonella and detection of staphylococcal enterotoxins A, B, C, and D. The average total count was 16.4 x 10(7) c.f.u./gm. Coliform bacteria were present in the all the examined, samples with an average of 18.9 x 10(3) c.f.u./gm. However, all samples were free from salmonella. Faecal streptococci and staphylococci were also found in average numbers of (16 x 10(5) c.f.u./gm and 92 x 10(3) c.f.u./gm). Enterotoxins A, B, C and D were not detected in any of the samples tested. PMID- 2522178 TI - [The current examination protocol for prostitutes at a venereal disease counseling clinic, Vienna Public Health Service]. AB - Registered Prostitutes are seen weekly for medical examination in the STD-Clinic of the Public Health Office Vienna. 1987 no syphilis was seen in this special riskgroup. The incidence of both gonorrhoe and chlamydial infection was. Chlamydias were found 1.6 times more, as gonococcal infections. There was no evidence of HIV infection. Screening for cervical neoplasia was started in reduced. 1988 and yielded a tenfold incidence of abnormal findings, requiring conisation often than compared to preventive checkups amoung the general female population. PMID- 2522179 TI - [Medical management--a new responsibility profile of the medical service of health insurance]. AB - The Federal German Health Insurance Amendment Law provides for reorganisation of the medical advisory service by specially appointed doctors who had so far been engaged in giving their expert opinion to health insurance authorities on health insurance cases. These activities are now being extended by additional tasks, such as management functions. The article reviews the medicosociological and health economy aspects of the revised advisory activities. PMID- 2522180 TI - [The use of dreams in the management of criminals]. AB - The article describes the peculiarity of dreams to be not only a kind of mirror of everyday reality - as is mostly the case - but also to be concerned with emotions in highly strung personalities who repress these emotions during waking awareness and deny their subconscious existence. In this respect dreams are suitable for diagnosing and anticipating the actions of the probationers for whom the social rehabilitation worker has to care. They can also serve as a medium of self-insight for such probationers who can realise their own conflicts. It is a well-known fact that such self-insight can be much more effective than any effort by outsiders to produce readaptation to a normal environment. PMID- 2522181 TI - [Coding of cause of death for mortality statistics--a comparison with results of coding by various statistical offices of West Germany and West Berlin]. AB - 1.136 death certificates representing all 1985 Bremen cardiovascular deaths and a 50%-sample of non-cardiovascular deaths in the age group 25-69 years were analyzed for reliability of nosologists' coding according to ICD-coding rules (9th revision). The 1.136 photocopied death certificates were used to assess intra-observer-variation in Bremen and to determine inter-observer-variation among 7 nosologists from 6 different State Statistical Offices and the Federal Statistical Office. Intra-observer-agreement in Bremen was found to be similar to the results presented in a comparable US-study: Bremen: 92.1%; Curb et al. 1983: 94.8%-96.1%; 3-digit-ICD-Code. Inter-observer-agreement was found to be much lower in Germany than in two US-studies: 3 coders agreeing on 3-digit-ICD-Code: Bremen: 67.7% (average, 3 coders out of 7); Curb et al.: 90.2% (3 coders); 3 coders agreeing on 4-digit-ICD-Code: Bremen: 61.5%; NCHS 1980: 90.3%. Agreement rates were also much lower in Germany than in the USA (Curb et al.) when particular disease groups were analysed: Ischaemic heart disease (ICD 410-414): Bremen: 82.7% (average); USA: 97.2%; cerebrovascular disease (ICD 430-438): Bremen 65.6% (average); USA: 93.2%; neoplasms (ICD 140-239): Bremen: 94.0% (average); USA: 97.8%. We conclude that training, individual characteristics of nosologists, and other factors may cause important artifacts when comparing German mortality statistics on a regional level or during different time intervals. PMID- 2522182 TI - [Adolescence and smoking--the smoking career]. AB - The results of investigations about the begin and the further course of smoking of children and young people are collected. Then the course of a smoker-career is demonstrated in five sections: Test-smoking, irregular smoking, regular few smoking, regular many smoking and nicotine-dependence. The main factors of these sections are discussed. PMID- 2522183 TI - [Integration of handicapped children--school without discrimination]. PMID- 2522184 TI - The human genome contains a pseudogene for the Mr=32,000 laminin binding protein. PMID- 2522185 TI - Purification of the major UsnRNPs from broad bean nuclear extracts and characterization of their protein constituents. AB - Small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particles containing the five major nucleoplasmic snRNAs U1, U2, U4, U5 and U6 as well as two smaller sized snRNAs were purified from broad bean nuclear extracts by anti-m3G, monoclonal antibody, immunoaffinity chromatography. We have so far defined 13 polypeptides of approximate mol. wts. of 11 kd, 11.5 kd, 12.5 kd, 16 kd, 17 kd, 17.5 kd, 18.5 kd, 25 kd (double band), 30 kd, 31 kd, 35 kd, 36 kd and 54 kd. Upon fractionation of the UsnRNPs by anion exchange chromatography, essentially pure U5 snRNPs were obtained, containing the 11 kd, 11.5 kd, 12.5 kd, 16 kd, 17 kd, 17.5 kd, 35 kd and 36 kd polypeptides. These may therefore represent the common snRNP polypeptides and which may also be present in the other snRNPs. By immunoblotting studies, using anti-Sm sera and mouse monoclonal antibodies we show that the 35 kd and 36 kd proteins are immunologically related to the mammalian common B/B' proteins. The broad bean 16 kd and 17 kd proteins appear to share structural elements with the mammalian D protein. The three proteins of mol. wts. 11 kd, 11.5 kd and 12.5 kd probably represent the broad bean polypeptides E, F, and G. Cross-reactivity of proteins of mol. wts of 30 kd and 31 kd with Anti-(U1/U2)RNP antibodies suggests that they may represent the broad bean A and B" polypeptides. The 54 kd protein and the 18.5 kd protein could be candidates for the U1 specific 70 k and C polypeptides. Our results demonstrate a strong similarity between the overall structure of broad bean and mammalian snRNPs. PMID- 2522187 TI - Disability. Mind your language. PMID- 2522188 TI - Disability. Be resourceful. PMID- 2522186 TI - A comparison of snRNP-associated Sm-autoantigens: human N, rat N and human B/B'. AB - N is a tissue-specific, Sm-epitope bearing, snRNP-associated protein found predominantly in brain. The cDNA sequence encoding human N is compared to those for rat N and human B/B'. The amino acid sequences of human and rat N are 100% conserved. Although the amino acid sequences of N and B/B' are very similar to each other, B/B' contains 50 amino acids which are not present in N. On Northern blots the cDNAs encoding N and B/B' recognize two different RNA species. A comparison of the codon usage, as specified by the open reading frames of N and B/B' as well as results from Southern blots, show that N and B/B' are derived from different genes. PMID- 2522189 TI - A pain in the back. PMID- 2522190 TI - Heartfelt care. PMID- 2522191 TI - The individual with high quadriplegia. AB - Persons with quadriplegia resulting from disease or trauma have an array of disabling impairments that involve virtually every body system. During the rehabilitation process, each impairment is addressed. This article presents alternatives in three areas: respiration, communication, and environmental control. The importance of tailoring strategies to the individual is emphasized throughout. Appropriate rehabilitation of the person with high quadriplegia goes beyond maintenance of life and health. An interdisciplinary team that includes the patient unites dreams, knowledge, skills, and technology so that the patient has the possibility of noninstitutional living, major control over his or her own destiny, some autonomy, and participation in a full spectrum of life activities. As Maddox noted: "Life is a fragile, fleeting thing, under any circumstances, and living it can be comic or tragic, weird or wonderful--regardless of one's motor limitations." PMID- 2522192 TI - Trends in pediatric rehabilitation. AB - The 1980s have been declared the decade of the disabled. Surgeon General Koop has stated that "it is profoundly important for our own society that we tend to these issues of disabled children, that these children not be forgotten or pushed aside, and that we retain our belief in the strength of the American family". The field of pediatric rehabilitation, unheard of as recently as the late 1970s, has become a recognized specialty. The definition of pediatric rehabilitation has expanded to include the care and treatment of children with congenital and acquired disabilities. The pediatric rehabilitation nurse is challenged to keep abreast of new developments in the field while seeking and implementing innovative ways to assist the child and family in their adjustment to the child's disability. A knowledge base of normal growth and development is essential when assessing abnormal patterns in the child with a disability. Complete assessment of the child with a disability includes a parent-child interview and physical assessment, with particular focus on the child's developmental age, movement patterns, and functional activities of daily living. The reaction of the child and family to the disability is all too often viewed as lack of "acceptance" of the child's disability. A continuum of "adjustment" to the disability for both family and child describes normal coping mechanisms for living with and managing the needs of a disabled child. It is important for the pediatric rehabilitation nurse to develop a partnership with parents in which they serve as consultants to families, not as directors of the child's care. Cerebral palsy and spina bifida are the two most common childhood disabilities. With advanced technologic equipment and refined surgical procedures, the child's potential for independence is reaching new heights. Computerized technology has aided the motor-impaired child to progress through normal developmental processes of exploration and discovery. Specialized health procedures such as tube feedings and clean intermittent catherization have become routine for many children and their families. Advanced technology has also benefited the child who is ventilator dependent, although not without some limitations to the child, family, and society. Limited financial and psychosocial resources create a burden on both the family and society as the child continues to require high technology care. The relatively new field of head-injury rehabilitation provides an arena for pediatric rehabilitation nurses to define specific interventions for the child who is rapidly evolving through the stages of cognitive and motor recovery.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2522193 TI - Sexuality and the adult with acquired physical disability. AB - A theme of this article is that sexuality is a broad concept that includes perceptions of one's self as male or female as well as sexual drives and behaviors, which are influenced by personal, societal, and cultural factors. Disability has demonstrable impact on sexuality and must be taken into account by nurses concerned with rehabilitative approaches to clients with disabilities. Self-assessment by professionals of their attitudes and feelings about sexuality was encouraged. Some strategies were offered by which nurses can define and identify their level of involvement in the sexual counseling of disabled clients. Assessment and information for selected interventions were discussed, as were emerging issues requiring further exploration. The nurse's role as it relates to sexuality in persons with disabilities is to assist clients to find, implement, and integrate their beliefs and behaviors into a healthy and satisfying lifestyle. PMID- 2522194 TI - Cultural assessment in rehabilitation nursing practice. AB - Relationships between disability and culture may affect the outcomes of care, clients' interactions with rehabilitation nurses, and clients' responses to rehabilitation services. Rehabilitation nurses have leadership roles that include coordinating and managing care, advocating for clients in the health system, educating family, clients, and community, and conducting research that can be applied to practice. Professional rehabilitation nurses are encouraged to examine the content and process of their clients' beliefs and behaviors in order to improve the outcomes of care for clients and to add to the body of knowledge of rehabilitation nursing. PMID- 2522195 TI - Substance abuse. The silent saboteur in rehabilitation. AB - Clearly, substance abuse among traumatically disabled persons can potentially sabotage rehabilitation outcomes for this population. There is evidence that substance abusers will comprise a growing percentage of patients within rehabilitation programs. Rehabilitation professionals must examine their own attitudinal barriers toward making a substance-abuse program an integral part of comprehensive rehabilitation care. Rehabilitation nurses are in a unique position to assist the rehabilitation team to identify the need for development of a substance-abuse program. PMID- 2522197 TI - [Arrhythmia in children]. PMID- 2522198 TI - [Chronic relapsing polychondritis. Clinical characteristics]. AB - Some imperfectly known clinical aspects of polychondritis chronica atrophicans (relapsing polychondritis), as extracted from a series of 12 cases, are presented. The osteoarticular lesions are sometimes unusual, involving the temporomandibular or cervical articulations, and the renal lesions may be severe. Pericarditis seems to be more frequent than usually mentioned in the literature. Pulmonary complications are not always those which are classically associated with lesions of the tracheo-bronchial cartilages. Haematological manifestations are not uncommon and must be taken into account when evaluating the prognosis of the disease. PMID- 2522196 TI - Physicians' acceptability of termination of pregnancy after prenatal diagnosis in southern France. AB - The acceptability of prenatal diagnosis for Down's syndrome has been extensively studied over the last 15 years but that of other pathologies remains largely unexplored. The main goals of this study were to approach physicians' opinions on six reasons for termination of pregnancy showing different deficiencies, i.e., Down's, Turner and Klinefelter syndromes, cystic fibrosis, spina bifida, and haemophilia, and to identify the origins of reserves. The influence of sociodemographic and professional characteristics of physicians on their opinions and attitudes during the consultation were studied. The data presented are based on information gathered in 1985 by a mailed questionnaire answered by 853 general practitioners, gynaecologists, obstetricians, and pediatricians in the Marseilles Genetic Centre's region. Stepwise logistic regression was used for the multivariate analysis. The results showed that 78 per cent of those answering favour termination of pregnancy for Down's syndrome and that only moral reticences were mentioned by the physicians opposed. Conversely, for haemophilia, only 21 per cent of the physicians considered this indication justified; those opposed were for the most part concerned that severity of illness did not justify termination of pregnancy. Overall, 33 per cent of physicians would voice their personal opinion on termination of pregnancy if so requested by consultees. Results on the influence of age and specialty evidenced their role on physicians' opinions. Indeed, 30 per cent of physicians opposed to pregnancy termination for one of the six fetal anomalies retained herein would modify their positions if diagnosis were possible in the first trimester of pregnancy. PMID- 2522199 TI - [Treatment of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura and thrombocytopenia associated with the HIV virus using anti-Rhesus immunoglobulins]. AB - Fourteen Rhesus-positive patients with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura or thrombocytopenia associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection were treated with intravenous Rhesus antibodies. The mean total dose was 6,800 micrograms administered over a 3 to 6 days' period. A significant rise in platelet count was observed in 13 of the 14 Rhesus-positive patients, but not in 3 Rhesus-negative patients used as controls. This rise was usually transient, lasting less than 3 weeks, but it persisted for more than 3 months in 2 cases. Treatment was well tolerated; transient signs of haemolysis appeared in 11 patients who did not require transfusion. Rhesus antibodies are quick-acting, the number of platelets being doubled as early as the second day of treatment. Interaction between antibody-coated red blood cells and macrophages is a possible mode of action and a feasible therapeutic approach in selected patients with autoimmune of HIV-mediated thrombocytopenia. PMID- 2522200 TI - [Prognosis of antenatal hydrocephalus]. AB - One hundred and eight children born with hydrocephalus were reviewed in order to evaluate their neuropsychological development. Premature children and children with spina bifida were excluded. The most frequent types of hydrocephalus were the communicating type (39 cases) and that where the condition is due to stenosis of the aqueduct of Sylvius (32 cases, not counting 6 cases of Bickers-Adams syndrome and 4 cases of toxoplasmosis); 84 per cent of the children were operated upon before the age of 3 months. The mean follow-up period was 7 years (range: 1 to 14 years). The actuarial survival rate at 10 years was 62 per cent. Among the 75 survivors, 28 per cent had an IQ of at least 80 and 50 per cent and IQ lower than 60; 29 per cent of the 52 children who reached school age had normal education. Forty-six per cent of the children showed little or no disorder of behaviour. The head circumference at birth, the size of the cerebral ventricles and the child's age at the time of surgery had no influence on the neuropsychological development. However, the prognosis seemed to be better in cases without associated malformation or infected valve, in those where the hydrocephalus was due to stenosis of the aqueduct of Sylvius (except when related to sex or toxoplasmosis) and when the first IQ evaluated at the age of about 6 months was higher than 80. PMID- 2522201 TI - [Surgical treatment of the so-called Spiegel anterolateral hernia]. AB - The surgical approaches to the so-called spigelian hernias are described on the basis of 16 cases and a review of the literature. The lateral route, used in 12 cases, leads to the hernial sac and to the orifice which is closed electively. Strangulation is frequent. The abdominal route, used in 4 cases, is suitable for occlusions revealing the hernias, resection of the colon, hernial phlegmons and hernias associated with an intra-abdominal lesion. PMID- 2522202 TI - [Coexistence of HIV-1 and HTLV-1 infections in Marseilles]. PMID- 2522203 TI - [Treatment of idiopathic chronic eosinophilic pneumonia with inhalation corticotherapy]. PMID- 2522204 TI - [Lethal hemorrhagic syndrome after mithramycin. Lack of platelet aggregation and inhibitor of factor V]. PMID- 2522205 TI - [Progressive supranuclear palsy in a 29-year-old woman. Birth of a normal child]. PMID- 2522206 TI - [Is physical exercise allowed in hypertensive subjects?]. PMID- 2522207 TI - [Anti-Scl-70 and anti-centromere autoantibodies. Biological markers of 2 forms of systemic scleroderma]. AB - The diagnostic and prognostic value of anti-Scl-70 autoantibodies in systemic scleroderma and other connective tissue diseases was investigated. A clinical and immunological study consisting of a search for anti-Scl-70 autoantibodies by immunodiffusion and immunoblot and a search for anti-centromere autoantibodies and antinuclear factors by indirect immunofluorescence was conducted in 57 cases of systemic scleroderma, 45 cases of CREST syndrome, 41 patients with suspected systemic scleroderma but who did not respond to the American rheumatism association (ARA) criteria, 35 cases of systemic lupus erythematosus, 8 cases of polymyositis, 40 cases of Raynaud's phenomenon and 48 controls. Anti-Scl-70 autoantibodies were found by immunodiffusion in 40 and by immunoblot in 45 cases of scleroderma with lesions proximal to the metacarpo-phalangeal joint (a major ARA criterion) and in 3 patients with suspected scleroderma but only one minor criterion: sclerodactyly. In systemic scleroderma with proximal lesions, the anti Scl-70 autoantibody has a sensitivity of 0.85 and a specificity of 0.99. Anti centromere autoantibodies were present in 39 cases of complete or incomplete CREST syndrome, 3 cases of Raynaud's phenomenon probably evolving towards a connective tissue disease and 1 case of systemic scleroderma with proximal lesions. The anti-Scl-70 and anti-centromere autoantibodies seem unable to coexist in the same patient and appear to be markers of two forms of scleroderma with different courses and prognoses. The Scl-70 antigen, which is the target of the anti-Scl-70 antibody, has been identified as topoisomerase 1, and a functional abnormality of this enzyme might contribute to some of the chromosomal abnormalities described in scleroderma. PMID- 2522208 TI - [Electrophysiologic study of syncope. Prediction of results]. AB - In order to determine the factors predictive of dysrhythmia or disorders of conduction, 20 variables were analysed retrospectively in 201 patients who had undergone electrophysiological exploration. The electrophysiological abnormalities found to be significant were major sinus dysfunction (corrected post-stimulation atrial pause longer than 1 second), subnodal block (HV interval greater than 70 ms) or induction of sustained monomorphous ventricular tachycardia. The electrophysiological exploration gave abnormal results in 50 patients (25 per cent) with ventricular tachycardia in 36, subnodal block in 11 and sinus dysfunction in 5. Multivariate analysis brought out 4 independent variables that were predictive of electrophysiological study results. Presence of a cardiac disease (P less than 0.001), male sex (P less than 0.001), bundle branch block (P = 0.002) or injury consecutive to a syncope (P = 0.003) were associated with an abnormal exploration. The odd ratio of an abnormal electrophysiological exploration in the presence of a variable as compared with the reverse situation was 10, 6.25, 3.8 and 5 respectively. Postprandial syncopes were associated with a negative exploration (P = 0.06). Combining these variables and using a logistic regression model would provide an estimate of the probability of a positive or negative electrophysiological study. The selection of a high probability group would then indicate whether or not an electrophysiological study would be required. PMID- 2522210 TI - [Acute renal failure after treatment of a wound using sucrose]. PMID- 2522209 TI - [Intensive induction and early consolidation of acute lymphoid leukemia in the adult. A pilot study of feasibility and long-term development]. AB - Between April and December, 1982, a multicentre pilot study was conducted in 45 patients aged from 16 to 73 years suffering from acute lymphoblastic leukaemia to test the feasibility of an intensive and short induction phase followed by an early consolidation phase. All patients received a 5-day course of induction chemotherapy with prednisone, vincristine, AraC and rubidazone, then a "triple A regimen" for consolidation, consisting of adriamycin, AraC and asparaginase. The complete remission rate was 73 per cent. Toxicity during induction was characterized by frequent infections, but the consolidation treatment was well tolerated. Thus, the sequence intensive induction-early consolidation proved feasible and acceptable. In terms of survival, 8 out of the 33 patients in remission are still alive and well after more than 4 1/2 years. PMID- 2522211 TI - [Fulminating Pseudomonas maltophilia septicemia during treatment with imipenem and amikacin]. PMID- 2522212 TI - [Encephalopathy caused by bromide salts]. PMID- 2522213 TI - [Medical treatment of mediastinal perforation of Barrett's ulcer]. PMID- 2522214 TI - [Severe neurologic manifestations of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections]. PMID- 2522216 TI - [Triple pancreatic metastasis of kidney cancer treated by subtotal duodenopancreatectomy]. PMID- 2522215 TI - [Cyclosporin-ticarcillin interaction in a renal transplant patient]. PMID- 2522217 TI - [Perspectives on intestinal motility. Colloquium. 5 February 1988, Paris. Proceedings]. PMID- 2522218 TI - [24 hours of intestinal motility]. AB - The normal pattern of fasting motility in the small intestine shows migrating bursts of intense electrical activity associated with smooth muscle contractions. The migrating motor complex (MMC) is a recurring pattern of contractions of the human small bowel which is inhibited in the fed state. At any given site the entire MMC cycle comprises three phases numbered 1, 2 and 3. Phase 3 activity, the most prominent feature of the MMC, consists of a burst of intense contractions which generally start in the stomach or in the duodenum and migrate distally. In humans, phase 3 recurs every 110 minutes and clears the small bowel of cellular debris and residual food. During phase 2, several other patterns of motility have been identified in man. The migrating action potential complex (MAPC) or its manometric equivalent (peristaltic rush) is an infrequent event in normal subjects, occurring only once every 160 minutes. Minute rhythms are defined as rhythmic bursts of phasic contractions of shorter duration than phase 3 and occurring with a much greater periodicity. They never occur in fed state. At night, the periodicity of phase 3 is more regular and its propagation velocity is slower than during daytime. In normal subjects the MMC pattern shows important inter- and intra-individual variations which need to be known to study patients with disorders of small bowel motility. PMID- 2522219 TI - [Role of motility in intestinal transit and absorption]. AB - The relationships between small intestinal motility, transit of digestive content and absorption of nutrients have been examined at two levels: intestinal contraction and motor profile mainly characterized by the cyclic occurrence of migrating motor complexes (MMC). The propulsive efficacy of a contraction depends upon several parameters such as amplitude, orientation, distance of propagation, and is modulated by the nature and the amount of digestive contents. The most rapid transit and the highest flow of digesta appear during the postprandial state and the phase 2 of MMC. Both contractions and MMC are correlated with increases in transmucosal potential difference which corresponds in part to the ionic permeability of the mucosa. Using analogic models or anesthetized animals, it has been shown that intestinal contractions are associated with water absorption. Simultaneous measurements of duodenal motility and glycemia in awake animals indicate that glucose absorption mainly occurs during periods of activity of the MMC and is minimum during the phases of quiescence. Such relations have also been determined between intestinal motility and arterial blood flow, but then are dependent upon the presence of nutrients or bile in the intestinal lumen. Finally, the complexity of the relationships between motility, transit and absorption is mainly due to the numerous parameters which characterize an intestinal contraction and to the nature of the intestinal contents. PMID- 2522220 TI - [Nervous control of intestinal motility]. AB - Leaving aside hormonal factors which should not be underestimated, it is now clear that digestive motility is a unitary phenomenon mainly under control of the nervous system. This system includes three discrete and somewhat redundant integrative levels: the enteric nervous system located in the digestive wall; the prevertebral ganglia and finally the central nervous system operating through more classical parasympathetic (cholinergic or not) or sympathetic (adrenergic) pathways. Nowadays, interest is concentrated upon the enteric nervous system because of its ubiquity, its potentiality, (it is able to operate highly integrative motor functions), its complexity and its neurochemical diversity. This last feature will provide, in the future, numerous opportunities for pharmacology and therapeutics. PMID- 2522221 TI - [Hormonal control of intestinal motility]. AB - There is increasing evidence that digestive hormones are involved in the regulation of the gastrointestinal motor profile in man. A typical profile of postprandial activity corresponding to the continuous occurrence of irregular contractions propagated over short distance is accompanied by an increase in plasma level of 8 to 10 identified digestive hormones. Four of them (insulin, gastrin, neurotensin and CCK8) infused systemically may produce or prolong this typical "fed" pattern suggesting that they may be involved physiologically in the initiation and duration of the fed pattern. The fasted state is characterized by the cyclic occurrence of gastrointestinal migrating motor complexes (MMC) which are associated with cyclic changes in plasma levels of motilin, somatostatin pancreatic polypeptide and gastrin. Numerous recent findings support the hypothesis that an increase in motilin initiates the MMC at foregut level which, in turn, produces the release of somatostatin. These hormones may be responsible for the aboral migration of MMC from the duodenum to the ileum and for the cycling rhythm by affecting blood levels of motilin (and/or) pancreatic polypeptide. PMID- 2522222 TI - [Effects of food on motility of the small intestine]. AB - It is now well-known that feeding suppresses the phase 3 propagated waves for 2.30 to 10 hours in the small intestine. This finding can be influenced by subject's age, ingestion time and nature of food. The influence of extraluminal factors, i.e. nervous or hormonal, is probable. First, a reduction of jejunal contractions frequency without alteration of their amplitude can be found in the elderly. Second, a late dinner can shorten by 50 per cent the duration of the post-prandial motor profile, which is followed by an irregular activity normally nearly absent and without reappearance of a reduced periodicity of phase 3. In man as in animal, the duration of the post-prandial inhibition is correlated with the caloric content of the meal. At equal colonic content a lipidic meal induces a stronger effect than a glucidic meal which has itself a stronger effect than a protidic one. Fibres eventually increase by 40 to 50 per cent the duration of the post-prandial continuous motor activity in the duodenum, and have, depending on their nature, a variable effect on the jejunum. Digestion and absorption of nutrients also appear to be involved through probable nervous and/or hormonal pathways. In animals, an increased absorption of lipids by addition of bile lengthens the inhibition duration; in man intravenous infusion of a lipidic emulsion can induce a typical post-prandial motor profile. Clinical implications of these results involve at the moment a hypothesis on the physiopathology of diarrhea and artificial, enteral or parenteral, nutrition. On the model of vagotomised patients, it was shown that diarrheic patients exhibited a shorter post-prandial activity. Enteral feeding can interrupt phase 3 on the one hand temporarily and on the other under the conditions of a minimal caloric flow and molecular weight of peptides in case of protidic infusion. Preliminary results with parenteral alimentation were found to be similar, with in particular a strong inhibitory effect of perfusion of lipids. PMID- 2522223 TI - [Duodenogastric reflux: diagnostic approach and incidence in dyspeptic disorders]. AB - Duodeno-gastric reflux might be responsible for a number of acute and/or chronic diseases of the oesophagus and stomach. However, no consensus has emerged from published clinical or experimental studies concerning the relationship between duodeno-gastric reflux and digestive tract disease. This inconsistency could be partly linked to the difficulties in detection and quantification of duodeno gastric reflux episodes and, consequently, in differentiation between physiological and pathological reflux. A critical review of the different diagnostic methods is therefore submitted here. An application of duodeno-gastric reflux evaluation to the inter-digestive period in non-ulcerous dyspepsia was carried out. The preliminary results of this prospective study do not favor an immediate responsibility of a quantitatively abnormal fasting reflux in non ulcerous dyspepsia. However, other applications of duodeno-gastric reflux analysis taking into account not only the quantitative aspect but also the composition of the reflux material, (selective bile acids, phospholipids, etc.) are necessary. PMID- 2522224 TI - [Colonic motility and irritable colon]. AB - The importance of colonic motility disorders in the irritable bowel syndrome is now well accepted, but an accurate description of these abnormalities is still wanting. The insufficiency of investigational methods and, mainly, the heterogeneity of the disorders can explain this need. Twenty-four hour recordings of colonic myoelectrical activity can now provide a better knowledge of motor disturbances. No evidence of a specific basic disorder has been presented, and the effects of stress produce contradictory results depending on the method used. In contrast, motility patterns recorded during sleep and after a meal show segmental hyperactivity in painful constipation, abnormalities of the colonic response to feeding in painful abdominal distension, propulsive hyperactivity with absence or reduction of the "sigmoidal brake" in painless diarrhea. However, it appears clearly that myoelectrical activity disturbances can only be observed in two thirds of the patients presenting with functional digestive disorders. "Sensitivity" or personality disorders and disturbances of other organs can explain the physiopathology of "irritable bowels" where no evidence can be found that the colon is involved. PMID- 2522225 TI - [Motility disorders of the small intestine in functional intestinal disorders]. AB - Functional digestive disorders have their origin in disturbances of the digestive motility control. This control ensured primarily by the "gut brain", which is able to integrate sensitive information from mucosal receptors and to organize an appropriate motor response from a choice of predetermined "programs". The gut brain is in close relationship with the central nervous system (CNS) which collects in fact most of the information and modulates the sensitive integration and the motor response of the enteric nervous system (ENS). Thus, a perturbation of the CNS, such as stress, may induce a dysfunctioning of the ENS, resulting in motor disturbances and finally functional digestive disorders. In a first study involving fasting healthy volunteers, we showed that stress produces a significant reduction of the intestinal migrating motor complexes (MMC). In a second study, patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) were subjected to stress and compared to patients with inflammatory bowel disease and to healthy controls. All subjects exhibited a decrease of MMC; however, total depletion was observed in numerous IBS patients, together with a characteristic irregular motor activity which was associated with symptoms. Finally, 24-hour recordings of the intestinal motility in these patients showed an entirely normal pattern during sleep and when abnormalities just awakening in association with symptoms. Stress induced perturbation of the CNS in IBS patients seems to provoke an inappropriate modulation of the motor activity programmed by the ENS, resulting in motor disturbances and finally in the symptoms of the disease. PMID- 2522226 TI - [Effects of trimebutine on intestinal motility in dogs]. AB - The effects of intravenous, oral, intracerebroventricular and local intra arterial administration of trimebutine were investigated in dogs whose digestive tract had been fitted with electrodes and strain gauge transducers. In fasted conscious dogs, trimebutine (5 mg/kg) stimulated small bowel motility with induction of a propagated phase of regular spiking activity. This stimulation was associated with weak inhibition of gastric motility and a biphasic response of the colon characterized by stimulation followed by inhibition. By the oral route, trimebutine (20 mg/kg) stimulated gastrointestinal motility. The duration of the intestinal migrating phase 2 was increased whereas an additional migrating phase 3 developed. These effects were associated with an increase in colonic contractions lasting two hours. The stimulating effect of trimebutine (phase 3) on intestinal motility was not reproduced after intracerebroventricular administration and was abolished by previous intravenous, but not intraventricular, administration of naloxone. The local effects of trimebutine on the circular muscle of canine gastrointestinal tract were studied after close intra-arterial injection in anesthetized dogs. Under these conditions, the drug stimulated the resting gut through its neural and direct smooth muscle components while it inhibited the contractions induced by field stimulation. In conclusion, the excitatory effect of trimebutine seems to be mediated by mu or delta receptors while its inhibitory activity might involve kappa opiate receptors. PMID- 2522227 TI - Localization of beta-endorphin in the rat heart and modulation by testosterone. AB - Chromatographic analysis and radioimmunoassay were used to identify and quantitate beta-endorphin (BE) and beta-lipotropin (B-LPH) in the hearts (devoid of major blood vessels and atria) from intact male rats, castrated male rats, and castrated male rats treated with testosterone propionate (TP). BE and B-LPH in the plasma of these animals were also identified and measured. In comparison to intact animals, castration resulted in a significant elevation in the content of BE in the heart which was reversed by the administration of TP. The content of B LPH in the heart was not affected by castration or castration in combination with TP. The ratio of BE to B-LPH in the heart of castrated animals was significantly elevated as compared with intact controls. Treatment of castrates with TP returned the ratio of BE to B-LPH to that observed in intact animals. The concentration of BE in the plasma was greater in castrated rats and castrated rats given TP than in intact males, whereas the concentration of B-LPH was diminished in castrated animals given TP. The ratio of BE to B-LPH was greater in castrated animals treated with TP than in castrated and intact animals. The content of BE and B-LPH, as well as the ratios of the two peptides, varied independently in the cardiac tissue and plasma. The present findings indicated that (i) BE and B-LPH are present in cardiac tissue, (ii) the amount of BE and B LPH in the heart and the ratio of BE to B-LPH appear to be modulated by TP, and (iii) BE and B-LPH detected in the heart was not simply a reflection of the presence of these peptides in the plasma. PMID- 2522228 TI - Immune function in aging rats: effects of germfree status and caloric restriction. PMID- 2522229 TI - Age-related molecular changes in skeletal muscle. PMID- 2522230 TI - Computer-assisted rapid surveys in developing countries. AB - Health surveys are an important source of population-based data in much of the developing world. Unfortunately, sample surveys often take more time to plan, process, and analyze than is practical, given the information needs of the local decision-makers. Rapid survey methodology (RSM) has been developed to permit health professionals to answer quickly questions about the health status and activities of people at the community level. These answers may be necessary for determining program priorities or for monitoring program activities. Rapid surveys are meant to supplement, rather than replace, information derived from existing sources of vital and health statistics data. RSM combines sample survey methods with contemporary software used in portable, battery-powered microcomputers. The ability to do rapid surveys in developing countries also requires knowledge of how to use appropriate computer hardware and software and how to apply cluster sampling theory in the local environment. RSM was used for the first time in Hlegu Township, Burma, to conduct a health survey of young children. The survey team started the field work on May 4, 1987. Four days later, while still in the field, the data were processed and rapidly analyzed by portable microcomputers for presentation to the local township medical officer and his staff. Within 10 days of starting the field work, we issued a detailed 50 page report of the study findings. This paper provides (a) a description of the components of rapid survey methodology, including the sample survey method, computer hardware, and computer software; (b) the general requirements for portable computer hardware in less developed regions of the world; (c) the procedures for doing a rapid survey; and (d) a summary of our experiences with RSM in Burma. PMID- 2522231 TI - Simple analytic procedures for rapid microcomputer-assisted cluster surveys in developing countries. AB - Surveys are often deemed necessary in developing countries when routine sources of data are not considered adequate to answer important policy-related questions. Although field work often goes smoothly, many surveys become bogged down in the analysis stage. With the availability of microcomputers and contemporary software, investigators in developing countries can use rapid survey methodology (RSM) to process, analyze, and report survey findings more quickly than ever before. Presented in this paper are three simple analytic procedures for planning and doing two-stage, rapid cluster surveys. All were successfully used in three rapid surveys in rural regions of Burma and Thailand. By use of a spreadsheet and graphics software package, the three procedures (a) derive the first-stage selection of 30 cluster sites with probability proportionate to size, (b) calculate variance estimates and confidence limits for the parameters of interest and graphically present the findings as 90, 95, and 99 percent confidence intervals, and (c) estimate the necessary sample size for planning two-stage, rapid cluster surveys. The procedures can be used both in the field and in teaching workshops or courses on survey methods. Examples are given from three rapid surveys conducted in Hlegu Township, Burma, and Sisaket Province, Thailand. In both countries, local health professionals were first taught the methods in a 1-week workshop before they used the procedure for conducting the rapid computer assisted surveys. PMID- 2522232 TI - An international survey of attitudes of medical geneticists toward mass screening and access to results. AB - A survey on mass screening was sent to 1,053 medical geneticists in 18 nations, of whom 677 responded. Three theoretical screening situations were proposed, screening in the workplace for genetic susceptibility to work-related disease, carrier screening for cystic fibrosis, and presymptomatic testing for Huntington disease. Of the respondents, 72 percent thought screening in the workplace should be voluntary, and 81 percent said employers should have no access without the worker's consent, including 22 percent who believed that employers should have no access at all. There was strong consensus in all but one nation that insurance companies should have no access to test results without the worker's consent, and strong consensus in two countries that they should have no access at all. Most (82 percent) believed that screening for cystic fibrosis should be applied to the entire population, but 18 percent believed that it should be applied primarily to Caucasians. In all, 66 percent of respondents believed that individuals at risk for Huntington disease should be told their test results only if they say that they wish to know, recognizing a "right not to know" whether they will develop the disease in later life. Twelve percent thought that spouses should have access to test results if they asked, and 26 percent thought that spouses should be informed of results even if they did not ask. Geneticists in all nations were vividly aware of the potential damage from third party access to results, especially access by insurance companies. They had little sympathy with insurers' needs to assess actuarially accurate premiums. PMID- 2522233 TI - Aberrant eating behavior in elderly parkinsonian patients with and without dementia: analysis of video-recorded meals. AB - Aberrant eating behavior among 14 elderly, non-demented and 10 demented patients with Parkinson's disease was studied by means of video-recordings. The findings revealed problems in handling food on the plate, transporting food into the mouth, manipulating food in the mouth, and swallowing. Interpretations were performed based on impairments of autonomic processes, perception, cognition, emotion, and motor performance that occur in the disease. PMID- 2522234 TI - [A school for backache in Geneva]. PMID- 2522235 TI - Activity of two types of Fc receptors, Fc gamma RI and Fc gamma RII, in human monocyte cytotoxicity to sensitized erythrocytes. AB - We investigated the cytotoxicity of human monocytes mediated by two types of receptors for the Fc portion of IgG, Fc gamma RI and Fc gamma RII. Erythrocytes sensitized with human IgG (EA-human IgG) were used to assay Fc gamma RI function, and erythrocytes sensitized with mouse IgG1 (EA-mouse IgG1) were used to assay Fc gamma RII. Both types of Fc gamma R were observed to mediate antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC), which was further characterized by using different monoclonal anti-Fc gamma R antibodies (MoAb) and monomeric IgG. Lysis of EA-human IgG was inhibited by both monomeric human IgG and mouse IgG2a in a dose-dependent way, and also by anti-Fc gamma RI MoAb 10.1. Cytolysis of EA-mouse IgG1 was inhibited by monomeric mouse IgG1 and by two anti-Fc gamma RII MoAb, IV.3 and CIKM5. Antibodies of the mouse IgG2b isotype affected neither type of ADCC. The effectiveness of cytotoxicity mediated by either of the Fc gamma R was studied by means of targets sensitized with a calibrated number of IgG molecules. At least 20 times more IgG molecules per target cell were necessary to obtain half-maximal cytotoxicity mediated by Fc gamma RII than for Fc gamma RI-mediated cytolysis. Furthermore, the previously described polymorphism of Fc gamma RII was also reflected in Fc gamma RII-dependent cytotoxicity. These studies demonstrate that Fc gamma RII can mediate ADCC, although a higher degree of target cell sensitization is required than for Fc gamma RI-mediated ADCC. PMID- 2522236 TI - Reduced erythrocyte CR1 (CD 35) receptor function and complement opsonization in factor I-deficient patients is restored by plasma infusion. AB - Erythrocytes (E) from three factor I-deficient patients were investigated for surface-bound complement factors and CR1 (CD 35) expression and function. The E were coated with C4b, C3b, and factor H. Following plasma infusion or in vitro incubation of the patients' E with normal human serum (NHS) or purified factor I, cell-bound C4b and C3b could no longer be detected. The E now expressed C3d, and factor H was unaffected, indicating that factor H was bound to the C3d part of the C3b molecules, providing the co-factor for effective cleavage of E-bound C3b when purified factor I was added. The binding of monoclonal anti-CR1 antibodies (M710) to the patients' E was markedly reduced compared with control E, and was not normalized by treatment with NHS, probably because covalently bound C3d/factor H interfered with the binding of M710. By contrast, the reduced ability of the patients' E-CR1 to bind complement-opsonized immune complexes (IC) was normalized after plasma infusion. This shows that the impaired CR1 function was acquired and emphasizes the importance of performing functional CR1 assays. Complement opsonization of IC for binding to normal E was severely compromised in the patients' sera due to consumption of factor B and C3. After plasma infusion the opsonization capacity of the patients' sera was restored. Thus, two mechanisms of importance for normal clearance of IC were compromised in factor I deficient patients: (1) the opsonization of IC for binding to E-CR1, and (2) the capacity of E-CR1 to bind opsonized complexes. Both dysfunctions were temporarily corrected by plasma infusion. PMID- 2522238 TI - Occupational causes of low-back pain. AB - Associations between occupational activities and low-back pain (LBP) were examined in a retrospective postal survey of 545 randomly selected adults. Each subject gave a lifetime occupational history on six specified physical activities and also a lifetime history of LBP. Among the 436 subjects answering the questionnaire, the lifetime incidence of LBP was 63%. The occurrence of LBP was related by Cox's proportional hazards regression model to occupational activities in the year prior to the onset of symptoms. For the men the strongest associations were with heavy lifting and prolonged car driving. There was also an association with heavy lifting among the women. These risks were exaggerated in the subset of subjects whose LBP followed a chronic unremitting course. The findings are consistent with previous reports linking LBP with manual materials handling and driving at work. However, in this sample, less than 20% of the cases could be attributed to such activities. PMID- 2522237 TI - Effects of high dose medroxyprogesterone acetate treatment on antithrombin III and other plasma proteins in males with renal cell or prostatic carcinoma. AB - In 18 patients, 12 with renal cell and 6 with prostatic carcinoma treatment with high dose medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) significantly increased serum antithrombin III and haptoglobin concentrations. During treatment the proteins correlated with each others suggesting a response to similar regulatory mechanisms. Levels of orosomucoid, a1-antitrypsin, C1-inhibitor and von Willebrand factor did not change during treatment showing that the increase of haptoglobin was not due to an acute-phase response. The increased antithrombin III levels may have a favourable impact on the frequency of thromboembolic complications during treatment with MPA. PMID- 2522239 TI - Inhibition of synaptosome membrane-bound integral enzymes by organic solvents. AB - The possible mechanism of the depressive effect of organic solvents on the central nervous system (CNS) was studied with synaptosome membranes as a model. The changes in the activities of the membrane-bound integral enzymes acetylcholinesterase, total adenosinetriphosphatase, and magnesium-activated adenosinetriphosphatase were determined after treatment with different concentrations of organic solvents in vitro. Aromatic hydrocarbons and chlorinated aliphatic hydrocarbons inhibited all the enzyme activities concentration dependently. Alcohols had no significant effect at the same dose levels. The results of the present study suggest that the CNS depressive effect of organic solvents may be based on their interaction with membrane integral proteins. PMID- 2522240 TI - Hypertensive left ventricular hypertrophy. PMID- 2522241 TI - A prospective study of the role of cardiovascular risk factors and fitness in industrial back pain complaints. AB - The authors conducted a prospective study of risk factors for industrial back pain complaints among 3,020 aircraft manufacturing employees. The study subjects completed a cardiovascular risk questionnaire, and were asked about their smoking status and past medical history, including previous back problems. Premorbid submaximal treadmill testing to predict maximum oxygen uptake (Vo2max) was completed in 2,434 subjects who were not excluded from testing due to cardiovascular risk screening. During several years of subsequent follow-up, 279 subjects reported back problems. Those who reported smoking at the time of the premorbid examination were significantly more likely to report a subsequent back problem than nonsmokers (P = 0.002). When controlling for sex and age, cardiovascular fitness, as measured through VO2max, was not predictive of future back injury reports (P = 0.26). PMID- 2522242 TI - Patient-handling skill, back injuries, and back pain. An intervention study in nursing. AB - The aim of this intervention was to evaluate the effect of training on patient handling skills and prospectively to assess the effect of skill on subsequent back pain and back injuries in nursing. Of a total of 255 nurses, 199 were assessed for their skill in patient-handling. One-half (control group) received traditional training in patient-handling, and the other half (trained group) received a curriculum of instruction totaling 40 hours. The skills of both groups were assessed on graduation. The control group was rated as less competent in patient-handling. Nurses in both groups were questioned about the prevalence of back pain and incidence of back injuries in the first year after graduation. In multiple regression analysis, the major risk indicators for back injuries were poor patient-handling skill, low numbers of repetitions in the sit-up test, and high work-load scores. High score on the hysteria scale of Middlesex Hospital Questionnaire was a risk indicator for all kinds of back pain. Though back pain was independent of patient-handling skill, those rated as "bad" or "poor" had more back injuries (24%) than those who had been rated as "good" or "excellent" (2%) (P less than 0.001), but the difference between the trained and control groups was not statistically significant. It was concluded that back injuries may be prevented by the teaching of patient-handling skills. PMID- 2522243 TI - Functional restoration with behavioral support. A one-year prospective study of patients with chronic low-back pain. AB - Patients with chronic disabling low-back pain have poor prospects of returning to work. The authors tested a treatment program of functional restoration with behavioral support through 1 year prospective observation of patients disabled for an average of 19 months without evidence of surgically correctable disease. Ninety patients were studied: 59 program graduates, five program dropouts, 17 patients denied program authorization by their insurance carriers, and six crossover patients. Three patients were admitted but refused to participate in the treatment program. Initial demographic, physical, and self-assessment attributes were similar for all four groups. At year's end, 81% of program graduates, 40% of the dropouts, and 29% of those denied the program had returned to work. All six crossover patients were working 6 months after treatment. Program graduates showed significant improvements in self-assessed pain, disability, and depression, and in physical capacities after 3 weeks of treatment. These improvements were maintained through the year except for partial decreases in frequent lifting, cycling endurance, and isokinetic trunk extension strength. Functional restoration with behavioral support is an effective treatment for patients with chronic, disabling low-back pain, as measured by self assessments, physical capacities, and return to work. PMID- 2522244 TI - Low-back pain and occupation. A cross-sectional questionnaire study of men in machine operating, dynamic physical work, and sedentary work. AB - The frequency of sciatic pain, lumbago, and nonspecific low-back pain (LBP) and factors related to these symptoms were determined among men occupied in machine operating (541 longshoremen and 311 earthmover operators), dynamic physical work (696 carpenters), and sedentary work (674 municipal office workers). Sciatic pain was more common among machine operators and carpenters than among office workers, and also more frequent among machine operators than among carpenters. The occupational differences were considerably smaller with regard to lumbago and nonspecific LBP. In multivariate analysis, occupation, age, reported back accidents, and postural load showed significant independent effects on the occurrence of sciatic pain. Allowing for other risk indicators, the relative risk was 1.3 contrasting machine operators with both office workers and carpenters, but carpenters had no excess risk as compared with office workers. PMID- 2522245 TI - Low-back pain after lumbar fusion. Surgical and computed tomographic analysis. AB - Forty-eight patients with persistent pain after lumbar fusion were examined using computed tomography (CT). A total of 157 findings were observed, obviously with greatly varying significance. The main lesions were fragmentation of the fusion mass (16 patients), hair-line pseudarthrosis (9 patients), and spinal stenoses (8 patients). These were also the most frequent indications for reoperation in 20 patients. If the indication for reoperation was fragmentation, hair-line pseudarthrosis, or central spinal stenosis, the results were usually good during a follow-up period that ranged from 6 months to 4 years. At reoperation, 21 of 27 main lesions detected by CT were confirmed; six CT findings were partially or totally incorrect. However, we consider CT to be the best method for examining these problematic patients, but emphasize the choice of relevant CT diagnoses. PMID- 2522246 TI - Endocrine manipulation of meningiomas with medroxyprogesterone acetate. Effect of MPA on growth of primary meningioma cells in monolayer tissue culture. AB - Intracranial meningiomas from patients treated with medroxyprogesterone acetate as well as from untreated patients were studied in monolayer tissue culture with trials of in vitro hormonal modulation with medroxyprogesterone acetate. The following conclusions were drawn from investigations which comprise 37 cell culture assays: (a) tissue cultures of meningiomas inherit the disadvantages of loss of the progesterone receptor and frequent transformation to cells resembling fibroblasts after three to four passages. For these reasons, drug testing as well as the establishment of cell cultures that exhibit the characteristics of meningioma are impeded; (b) the progesterone receptor-content of the solid tumors does not reflect the response to medroxyprogesterone acetate-therapy in vitro; (c) medroxyprogesterone acetate-pretreated meningiomas showed sufficient in vitro growth in 38%, and untreated meningiomas grew well in 56% of the cases; (d) medroxyprogesterone acetate-induced inhibition or delay of growth was observed in 35%. These findings have resulted in criticism with respect to the value of meningioma tissue cultures for trials of hormonal manipulation and it is thought that another method, which consists of immunostaining of cycling cells, and has been tested in another study, may be superior to cell culture assays with respect to evaluation of the effect of hormonotherapy in meningiomas. Medroxyprogesterone acetate holds an interesting position because it reduces cell growth in some meningiomas in vitro. PMID- 2522247 TI - Regional hepatic arterial infusion of degradable starch microspheres increases fluorodeoxyuridine (FUdR) tumor uptake. AB - Hepatic metastases of colorectal carcinoma demonstrate a dose response to chemotherapy. In animal studies hepatic arterial infusion of chemotherapeutic agents with degradable starch microspheres (DSMs) produces a redistribution of blood flow between tumor and liver and an increase in tumor drug levels. In this prospective clinical study in patients with colorectal metastases, we evaluated the effect of DSMs on liver and tumor levels of fluoropyrimidines after intraoperative administration through the hepatic artery. Fourteen patients underwent infusion of radiolabeled fluorodeoxyuridine, 14C-FUdR (0.15 mg/kg, 0.5 microCi/kg), followed 2 to 5 minutes later by infusion of 3H-FUdR (0.15 mg/kg, 1.0 microCi/kg) without (n = 3) or with (n = 11) DMS. Seven of the later patients underwent major hepatic resection and tissue mapping of drug distribution, and four patients underwent biopsy procedures to remove specimens of liver and tumor 5 minutes after microsphere infusion. Administration of DSMs with FUdR increased tumor drug levels as measured by 3H-FUdR (5.9 +/- 4.4 vs 17.1 +/- 9.4 nmol/gm, p = 0.07) without altering hepatic drug levels (35.7 +/- 10.9 vs 30.2 +/- 20.9 nmol/gm, p = NS) and significantly increased the tumor/liver drug ratio of tritiated fluoropyrimidines (0.16 +/- 0.09 to 0.63 +/- 0.13, p = 0.03). Fluoropyrimidine levels in tumor and liver correlated with blood flow as measured by technetium-99m macroaggregated albumin retention. Thus, hepatic arterial administration of DSMs in human beings enhances tumor FUdR levels and may be useful in increasing tumor cytotoxicity and decreasing systemic toxicity during regional hepatic infusion. PMID- 2522248 TI - Bilateral renal autotransplantation with pyelovesicostomy: a surgical treatment of refractory enteric hyperoxaluria. AB - A 38-year-old man, with only 3 feet of small bowel remaining after multiple resections because of chronic inflammatory bowel disease, had severe symptomatic calcium oxalate nephroureterolithiasis. Because of the refractory symptoms, he was successfully treated with bilateral autotransplantation of the kidneys, totally bypassing the ureters. Anatomically effective urinary tract continuity was reestablished by means of bilateral pyelovesicostomies with concomitant rectus muscle vesicofixation to create direct stone-dumping channels into the urinary bladder. The patient is now completely without symptoms 18 months after surgery. A description and rationale for this surgical treatment is provided. Bilateral autotransplantation of the kidneys with direct drainage into the urinary bladder may be an attractive and viable therapeutic option in complicated patients with short-gut syndrome and severe refractory calcium oxalate nephroureterolithiasis. PMID- 2522249 TI - Coagulation cascade, fibrinolytic system, antithrombin III, protein C and protein S in patients maintained on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis. AB - We studied the coagulation cascade, fibrinolytic system and naturally occurring anticoagulants in a group of 14 patients with end-stage renal disease maintained on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). The results were compared with those obtained in a group of ten normal volunteers. Plasma procoagulant activities of factors XII, XI, IX, VIII, VII, X and II were significantly greater in the CAPD group as compared to the normal control group. Likewise plasma concentrations of total and free protein S were increased in the CAPD group. Although the mean value for plasma factor V activity in the CAPD group was higher than that found in the control group the difference did not attain statistical significance. In addition plasma fibrinogen concentration and factor VIII-related antigen level were significantly increased in CAPD patients. No significant difference was found between the CAPD patients and the control group with respect to plasma levels of protein C, antithrombin III, plasminogen or alpha 2 antiplasmin. In summary, the results demonstrate a tendency for increased levels of various coagulation factors and protein S in CAPD patients with no significant alterations in the levels of various fibrinolytic and endogenous anticoagulant agents, i.e. antithrombin III and protein C. The clinical significance and the mechanism responsible for the observed changes require further investigation. PMID- 2522250 TI - Abnormal Ca2+ homeostasis in platelets of patients with myeloproliferative disorders: low levels of Ca2+ influx and efflux across the plasma membrane and increased Ca2+ accumulation into the dense tubular system. AB - Ca2+ influx and efflux in unstimulated platelets and Ca2+ uptake by simultaneously isolated two membrane fractions of platelets from patients with myeloproliferative disorders (MPD) have been investigated. In MPD, Ca2+ influx and efflux across the plasma membrane in unstimulated platelets were in equilibrium at significantly lower levels than in normals. Ca2+ uptake by external membrane fraction isolated from MPD platelets was lower, whereas, uptake by internal membrane fraction enriched with dense tubular system (DTS) from MPD platelets was significantly higher than that from normal platelets. This corresponded with the membrane associated Ca2+-activated ATPase activity. These abnormalities of calcium ion movement in plasma membrane and dense tubular system illustrates one of the mechanisms of qualitative abnormalities of MPD platelets. PMID- 2522251 TI - [Low back pain and instability of the pelvic ring]. AB - Low back pain is a major cause of disability, and a large percentage of patients with low back pain have no identifiable pathology. In this review of the literature low back pain is considered from the point of view of dysfunction of the pelvic joints. The reliability of the commonly used tests, signs and procedures are considered. Inflammatory causes such as ankylosing spondylitis are well documented to cause low back pain, but mechanical factors apart from intervertebral disc protrusion are largely speculative. PMID- 2522252 TI - Left ventricular aneurysm: a new surgical approach. AB - Since 1984, we have used a circular patch to reconstruct the left ventricle ("endoventricular circular plasty") in order to maintain a more physiologic cavity. This technique has three theoretical advantages over standard linear closure of the left ventricle (LV). First, it allows exclusion of the septal akinetic segment of the LV. Secondly, circular reorganization of the remaining LV muscle avoids the restraint caused by the linear suture closure and achieves a more physiologic LV cavity. Thirdly, circular plasty using the patch allows a complete resection of aneurysmal segments including resection of extensive subendocardial scar tissue, when appropriate, without critically compromising the cavity size. The technique involves the following steps: --Resection of dyskinetic or akinetic LV free wall and thrombectomy when indicated. --A dacron patch lined with pericardium is secured at the junction of the endocardial muscle and scarred tissue, thereby excluding non contractile portions of the LV and septum. --Myocardial revascularization is performed as indicated with particular attention paid to revascularizing the proximal left anterior descending segment. The group of patients forming this study includes 130 cases of LV reconstruction since 1984. The three main indications for surgery were angina (40%), cardiac failure (35%), arrhythmias (10%). There have been 8 hospital deaths, 4 late mortalities related to recurrence of cardiac failure in this group.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2522253 TI - Decrease in phenotypically defined T helper inducer cells (T4+4B4+) and increase in T suppressor effector cells (T8+2H4+) in stable renal allograft recipients. AB - Two monoclonal antibodies, anti-2H4 and anti-4B4, reciprocally divide the T4+ (CD4+) and T8+ (CD8+) lymphocytes into T4+2H4+, T4+4B4+, T8+2H4+ and T8+4B4+ subsets. The T4+2H4+, T4+4B4+ and T8+2H4+ subsets possess suppressor-inducer, helper-inducer, and suppressor-effector function, respectively, as previously defined in a system of B cell immunoglobulin production. Using monoclonal antibodies, including anti-2H4 and anti-4B4, and flow cytometry, we monitored lymphocyte subpopulations in 66 renal allograft recipients. We found that patients with stable allograft function have a decrease in the percentage of total T4+ lymphocytes from 41.9 +/- 9.5% pretransplant (pre-Tx) to 36.3 +/- 13.9% posttransplant (post-Tx) (P less than 0.05). This decrease was seen mainly in the T4+4B4+ or helper-inducer subset from 20.8 +/- 4.7% (pre-Tx) to 16.0 +/- 6.3% (post-Tx) (P less than 0.005). Patients with stable function were also noted to have an increase in the percentage of total T8+ lymphocytes from 21.3 +/- 10.7% (pre-Tx) to 30.9 +/- 15.4% (post-Tx) (P less than 0.02). Examination of T8 subsets revealed that a statistically significant increase was seen in the T8+2H4+ or suppressor effector subset from 15.5 +/- 9.2% (pre-Tx) to 21.5 +/- 10.2% (post-Tx) (P less than 0.01). Additionally, serial studies on 14 patients revealed an increase in the %T4+2H4+ suppressor-inducer subset from 9.31 +/- 3.64% (pre-Tx) to 15.71 +/- 6.41% (post-Tx) (P less than 0.0025). Since the role of these subsets has not been established in alloimmunity, in vitro allogeneic studies of 2H4-enriched (2H4+) and 2H4-depleted (2H4-) lymphocytes from normal peripheral blood were performed. In the mixed lymphocyte reaction, 2H4+ cells proliferated less than 2H4- cells (cpm ratio 2H4+/2H4-: 0.63-0.84), but 2H4+ cells generated twice as much suppressor activity as 2H4- cells (ratio % suppression 2H4+/2H4-: 1.9-2.3). These results suggest that 2H4+ cells play a role in the suppressor limb of the alloimmune response and that the increase in cells of this phenotype in our transplant population may be responsible for the maintenance of stable allograft function. PMID- 2522254 TI - Prevention of acute cyclosporine nephrotoxicity by atrial natriuretic factor after ischemia in the rat. AB - The present experimental study investigates whether the atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) is able to prevent the nephrotoxic effects of cyclosporine infused after 30 min of warm renal ischemia in the rat. At 2 hr after the end of ischemia, the glomerular filtration rate was improved by an ANF infusion: 390 +/- 19 microliters/min/100 g versus 298.3 +/- 31 microliters/min/100 g in ANF and saline infused rats, respectively (P less than 0.05). Intravenous CsA infusion at a dose of 2.5 mg/kg/day produced a more pronounced fall in GFR when compared with the control: 205.4 +/- 19.7 microliters/min/100 g versus 298.3 +/- 31 microliters/min/100 g in CsA and saline, respectively (P less than 0.05). In contrast, a synthetic rat atriopeptin III (0.5 microgram/kg/min) infusion after ischemia given together with CsA prevented its deleterious effects upon GFR: 316 +/- 22 microliters/min/100 g versus 205.4 +/- 19 microliters/min/100 g in ANF/CsA versus CsA alone (P less than 0.001). Moreover, the natriuretic ANF effects remained unaffected by high plasma CsA peak levels: indeed, other parameters of renal function--urinary flow, urinary sodium concentration and excretion rates, and urinary sodium reabsorption and fractional excretion rates, were significantly increased in ANF alone or CsA/ANF groups. These preliminary results suggest that ANF may be useful in renal transplantation or in the management of patients given large doses of CsA (liver or heart transplant) since, despite nephrotoxic CsA levels (greater than 1500 ng/ml), ANF provides an improved GFR and tubular function after ischemia. PMID- 2522255 TI - Monocyte/macrophage procoagulant activity as a measure of immune responsiveness in Lewis and brown Norway inbred rats. Discordance with lymphocyte proliferative assays. AB - In vitro lymphocyte proliferative assays were performed using Lewis (Lew) and Brown Norway (BN) rats, and compared to induction of monocyte/macrophage procoagulant activity (PCA) in a mixed lymphocyte culture and by endotoxin (LPS) (E. Coli 0111:B4). Splenic mononuclear cells from Lew rats had significantly greater mitogen-induced proliferation to concanavalin A (P = .002) and phytohemagglutinin (P = 0.007). The Lew cells also showed greater allogeneically induced proliferation by BN cells in a one-way MLC in comparison to the reciprocal BN proliferative response (P less than 0.04). PCA induction in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBM) by allogeneic stimulation in MLC or total content PCA by LPS did not vary significantly between the 2 strains (P greater than 0.5). Induction of PCA by LPS was rapid, with a moderate rise over basal activity at 3 hr and maximal activity at 6 hr. Two-way allogeneic induction of PCA in PBM from BN and Lew rats resulted in PCA elevation by 3 hr, which became maximal at 18 hr. One-way MLC with Lew or BN cells as responders resulted in moderate increases in PCA by 3-6 hr, with equivalent maximal activities recorded at 18 hr. Viable PCA accounted for 26-32% of total content PCA in both Lew and BN rats. Maximal allogeneic PCA induction by MLC was 14-18% of PCA induced by LPS and required a longer incubation for its expression. Our results indicate that in vitro PCA expression by Lew and BN PBM following allogeneic or endotoxin stimulation shows little interstrain variability in comparison to lymphocyte proliferative responses. Thus PCA appears to more closely reflect the observed in vivo responses of these strains to allogeneic challenge. PMID- 2522256 TI - [Results and complications of balloon dilatation of renal artery stenosis in patients with renovascular hypertension]. AB - During the years 1981 to 1987, 32 patients with renovascular hypertension due to renal artery stenosis were submitted to percutaneous transluminal renal angioplastic (PTRA) in four hospitals in Copenhagen. Nineteen of the interventions were technically successful and six of these patients (32%) no longer required medicine, eight (42%) were able to manage on reduced medication while the circumstances where five were concerned (26%) remained unchanged. Serious complications occurred in 16% and the mortality was 6%. The results of this treatment correspond to those reported elsewhere but the frequency of complications is high. It is concluded that the procedure should be centralized, possibly as a national function. PMID- 2522257 TI - [Cyproterone acetate in the treatment of post-orchiectomy flushing]. AB - Out of 17 patients who had been submitted to subcapsular orchidectomy as the primary treatment of cancer of the prostate, postorchiectomy flushing was found in eight, corresponding to 47%. Six of the patients were treated with cyproterone acetate in a dosage of 50-100 mg daily. In all of these clinically significant reduction in the frequency and duration of the flushing was found. In four out of five patients with possible recurrent flushing after withdrawal of cyproterone acetate, recommencement of the treatment proved necessary. Administration of cyproterone acetate appears to be equally effective in a dosage of 100 mg daily as in a dosage of 300 mg daily and this reduces the side effects and expenses considerably. If it is possible to obtain a more extensive patient material without hormone treatment, a placebo-controlled investigation with the reduced dosage is desirable. PMID- 2522258 TI - [Demonstration of epidermal Langerhans cells]. AB - Langerhans Cells (LC) are centrally involved in the induction of skin-located immunological processes, including kontactallergical reactions. Because of the growing interest in LC functions, and dynamics, various possibilities for their detection reaching from histological staining up to immunohistochemical characterization by means of monoclonal antibodies, have been developed. The concern of this paper is to overview different visualization techniques. PMID- 2522259 TI - [Raising physically and psychologically disabled children and non-disabled children within the family]. AB - The formation of close fraternal relations is of great importance for the personality development of the children as well as of their parents and for the relations arising between brothers and sisters with advancing age. With regard to these relations the parents can be partly relieved from the care, troubling them possibly all their life for their disabled child. This has to be considered more thoroughly in the educational advice for the parents of physically-mentally disabled children. PMID- 2522260 TI - [The knowledge of disabled and non-disabled children of the respective other group]. AB - The knowledge of 9-10 years old disabled pupils and the knowledge of not-disabled pupils of the same age about the respective other group does not only differ with regard to its extent but also to its contents from the knowledge of 11-12 years old disabled and not-disabled pupils, respectively. PMID- 2522261 TI - [Thrombolysis in acute myocardial infarct: a status determination 1988]. AB - This article reviews the pertinent literature from the last decade. The following conclusions are drawn: 1) Intravenous thrombolysis given within 6 h after onset of myocardial infarction symptoms significantly improves short- and long-term survival. To evaluate the relative efficacy and safety of various thrombolytic agents, randomized trials directly comparing these agents are needed. 2) Efficacy of thrombolysis must be demonstrated not just by restoring coronary patency, but in consistent limitation of infarct size and more so in reduced short- and long term mortality. 3) Long-term improvement of left ventricular function due to adequate reperfusion of an infarct-related artery most probably is the essential mechanism for reduced mortality. For direct salvage of ischemic myocardium, however, initiation of treatment within 4 h of symptom onset is mandatory. 4) Immediate coronary angiography and angioplasty is not superior to non-invasive treatment but carries a significant complication and mortality risk. Thus, immediate invasive strategy should be avoided. 5) The major untoward side effects related to thrombolysis are hemorrhagic events predominantly at catheterization or other puncture sites; this stresses the need for minimizing invasive procedures. A more frequent occurrence of intracranial hemorrhage is balanced by less ischemic strokes, especially with additional administration of acetylsalicyclic acid. 6) Thrombolytic therapy carries the risk of continuing ischemia post infarction. Patients with persistent or recurrent clinical symptoms or a major ischemic response detected by non-invasive risk stratification need coronary angiography and revascularization therapy. The role of revascularization therapy in patients with minor or no ischemic response to early submaximal exercise testing requires further studies. PMID- 2522263 TI - The frequency distribution of various pelviscopic (laparoscopic) operations, including complications rates--statistics of the Federal Republic of Germany in the years 1983-1985. AB - The 3rd German pelviscopic (laparoscopic) statistics include in all 207,823 laparoscopies from 310 general hospitals and 41,644 laparoscopies from 121 private clinics. The response rate was 39% for the hospitals and 59.3% for the clinics. In the hospitals 429 serious complications occurred and in the clinics 63, which is a complication rate of 1.97%. In 415 cases (1.66%) a laparotomy was required. The most frequent serious complication was an injury of the intestinal organs, caused by the Veress-needle or the Trocar. Another serious complication was an injury of a major blood-vessel, as well as haemorrhages from salpinges on dissected Omentum. For sterilization 87.7% of the hospitals and clinics used the bipolar HF-technique; 32.4% used Endocoagulation according to Semm. In 8.3% of the cases, the monopolar high frequency method was applied. After sterilisation in the hospitals, intra- and extra-uterine pregnancies occurred in 2.8% while in the private clinics this figure was 3.3%. The intra- or extra-uterine pregnancies occurred mainly after sterilisation by the bipolar HF-technique or after Clip sterilisation. 46.1% of the investigated hospitals and 36.4% of the private clinics intend to increase the indication of the endoscopic operations. PMID- 2522262 TI - [Use of the autoperfusion catheter in acute coronary occlusion within the scope of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA)]. AB - The procedure of an autoperfusion catheterization after acute coronary occlusion by dissection during percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) is described. Multiple side holes proximal and distal to the dissection allow passive myocardial perfusion only by systemic blood pressure. In the case presented, the catheter immediately reestablished coronary blood flow and thereby produced resolution of symptoms and myocardial ischemia. This easy procedure made it possible to perform the subsequent coronary bypass operation as a controlled revascularization and it prevented myocardial necrosis. PMID- 2522264 TI - [Changes in hemodynamic values in various phases of pelviscopy]. AB - In 57 patients the effects of various stages during routine laparoscopy (induction of anaesthesia, intraabdominal insufflation of carbon dioxide, changes in body position) on cardiac performance were investigated. For the measurement of cardiac output we used the noninvasive thoracic impedance cardiography. After induction of anaesthesia and with terminated CO2 insufflation cardiac index significantly decreased compared to the reference values prior to surgical intervention (3.21 L/m2 vs. 1.96 L/m2; p less than 0.0001). At the end of laparoscopy in Trendelenburg position there was a slight increase in cardiac index with 2.26 L/m2. After the patients had been returned to the horizontal position and the abdomen was then deflated cardiac index almost reached the values at the beginning of laparoscopy. We demonstrated a high reproducibility in cardiac output measurements using impedance cardiography when comparing the respective values 24 hours prior to laparoscopy and those results investigated 24 48 hours after the surgical intervention. With regard to clinical situations of hypovolemia, f.e. ruptured ectopic pregnancies it is evident that the described alterations in cardiac performance should be considered. PMID- 2522265 TI - The effect of general anaesthesia on the haemodynamic events during laparoscopy with CO2-insufflation. AB - Sixteen women were studied during elective diagnostic laparoscopy with CO2 insufflation to an intraabdominal pressure (IAP) of 2 kPa and Trendelenburg tilt to 30 degrees. They were allocated to either a halothane (Group I) or a balanced (Group II) anaesthesia with relaxation and controlled ventilation. Heart rate (HR), arterial pressure, stroke volume, CO2-elimination, end-tidal CO2 vol.% and total respiratory compliance (TRC) were the parameters measured, and mean arterial pressure (MAP), total peripheral resistance (TPR), stroke index (SI) and cardiac index (CI) were calculated. At maximum haemodynamic strain, SI and CI were on average reduced by 42% in both groups, without significant changes in HR and MAP. TPR increased by 50% in Group I and 100% in Group II. The reduction in SI was related to the changes in TRC. A small increment in CO2-elimination after CO2-insufflation was most pronounced in Group II. SI and CI did not reach the pre insufflation values after return to the horizontal position and CO2-exsufflation. The haemodynamic differences between the two groups were small compared to the effects of the laparoscopy procedures. PMID- 2522266 TI - Functional and biochemical analyses of isolated rat hearts in renal and reversed renal hypertension. AB - The present study evaluates cardiac function, plasma renin activity (PRA) and left ventricular (LV) myosin isoenzymes in untreated two-kidney, one-clip Goldblatt hypertensive rats (2KIC) and in 2KIC treated with felodipine and metoprolol. Normotensive rats (NCR) and another group of 2KIC, in which the renal artery constriction was removed (UC-2KIC), were also investigated. Cardiac performance was assessed by means of a working heart perfusion device, allowing also for measurements of myocardial oxygen consumption. Following antihypertensive therapy and unclipping, blood pressure became close to normotensive levels. PRA remained equally elevated in treated and untreated 2KIC, but became practically normalized after unclipping. Relative LV weight in 2KIC increased 74% above that in NCR but in treated 2KIC increased by only 20%. In UC 2KIC LV hypertrophy became reversed, LV weight/body being about the same as in treated 2KIC. In treated 2KIC, coronary resistance at maximal dilatation was significantly reduced, implying prevention of hypertensive, structural coronary vascular changes, and optimal LV function was improved markedly in the lower range of perfusion pressures compared with untreated 2KIC. When, however, the hearts were challenged at a high pumping resistance (perfusion pressure), LV function was similar in untreated and treated 2KIC. Myocardial oxygen consumption for given levels of stroke work was significantly lower in treated than in untreated 2KIC. The myosin isoenzyme pattern in the LV of 2KIC was shifted, with significantly higher amounts of VM-3 than in NCR. This shift was normalized by antihypertensive therapy or by unclipping. In conclusion, antihypertensive therapy with felodipine and metoprolol prevents the development of coronary vascular and left ventricular hypertrophy in 2KIC. This may contribute to enhance cardiac performance at low aortic pressure. The lack of improvement in optimal cardiac performance (at high aortic pressure) implies that the hypertensive state per se, rather than extent of pressure elevation, cardiac hypertrophy, or changes of LV isoenzymes, determines the reduced cardiac function in renal hypertensive rats (Friberg & Nordborg 1986). PMID- 2522267 TI - The human C3b receptor (CR1). AB - The human complement system is comprised of 19 plasma components and regulatory proteins and of at least 9 distinct cellular receptors for these proteins or their activation fragments. The important role of complement in host defense against infection is related to its capacity to opsonize microorganisms, lyze target cells, and induce the release of inflammatory mediators from leukocytes. Complement participates in the processing and clearance of immune complexes and in regulation of the immune response. Most of the biologic effects derived from complement activation depend on ligand-receptor interactions between complement proteins or their cleavage fragments and specific receptors on cells. Two types of ligands are generated during complement activation: soluble low-molecular weight ligands, such as the anaphylatoxins C3a and C5a, and so-called bifunctional ligands that attach both to the target of complement activation (opsonins) and to the appropriate receptor on effector cells. The most abundant complement protein in plasma is C3. Activation of the classic and alternative complement pathways generates C3 convertases that cleave C3 into an anaphylatoxic fragment, C3a, and a major fragment, C3b, which is capable of forming a covalent linkage with the targets of complement activation. Surface-bound C3b is the preferential ligand for the C3b receptor, CR1 (CD 35), which is expressed on most peripheral blood cells. The receptor plays an important role in the processing of immune complexes, the phagocytosis of C3b-bearing microorganisms, and regulation of the immune response. The cellular expression of the molecule is decreased in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and in patients infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). PMID- 2522268 TI - Relation between coronary stenosis and myocardial lesions determined by a semiquantitative approach to myocardial fibrosis and hypertrophy due to ischemia. AB - To clarify the cause of myocardial hypertrophy in ischemic heart disease, the relation between the extent of fibrosis and myocyte diameter was examined in patients with cardiac hypertrophy of unknown etiology except for coronary sclerosis. In 79 unselected cases, the heart weight tended to be higher in patients with severe coronary stenosis and fibrosis. In a morphometric study of 33 additional hearts of patients without a clinical history of hypertension, valvular disease or diabetes mellitus, 15 of which had anterior infarction, a positive correlation (r = 0.63) was observed between myocyte diameter and the percent area of fibrosis in the anterior wall of the left ventricle. In the heart of patients with severe coronary stenosis (more than 75% luminal narrowing), the regression coefficient was 0.83. The hearts of 8 patients with nontransmural infarction showed a strong correlation between myocyte diameter and fibrosis, compared with the hearts of 7 patients with transmural infarction. In most cases, the main mechanism of hypertrophy in ischemic heart disease was considered to be compensatory hypertrophy for existence of myocardial fibrosis. PMID- 2522269 TI - Myocardial release of hypoxanthine and lactate during percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. AB - The response of myocardial lactate and hypoxanthine metabolism during percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty was studied in a series of 15 patients undergoing this procedure. A minimum of 4 balloon inflations was performed per patient with an average duration per occlusion of 49 +/- 11 seconds (mean +/- standard deviation) for a total occlusion time of 192 +/- 40 seconds. Thermodilution coronary venous blood flow measured in the great cardiac vein decreased from control values of 72 +/- 4 ml/min (mean +/- standard error of the mean) to 47 +/- 10 ml/min with the fourth coronary occlusion (p less than 0.005). Arteriovenous lactate and hypoxanthine showed peak differences during the reactive hyperemia after the first 2 occlusions which did not increase after subsequent occlusions. Within minutes after the procedure, lactate and hypoxanthine efflux was no longer seen, demonstrating the reversibility of the metabolic disturbances after repeated ischemia. The results of this study indicate that there is no permanent alteration in lactate or hypoxanthine metabolism after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty with 4 coronary occlusions of 40 to 60 seconds' duration, with a total occlusion time of 192 +/- 40 seconds. PMID- 2522270 TI - Early recovery of regional left ventricular function after reperfusion in acute myocardial infarction assessed by serial two-dimensional echocardiography. AB - Although global and regional left ventricular (LV) function has been demonstrated to improve after reperfusion in acute myocardial infarction (AMI), the timing of these changes has not been well established. In this study, serial 2-dimensional echocardiography was used to assess regional LV function in 23 patients with AMI in whom reperfusion was accomplished by thrombolysis alone, by coronary angioplasty alone or by both interventions within 6 hours after onset of chest pain. Echocardiograms were performed before or within 6 hours after reperfusion (n = 23) and at 1 (n = 19), 3 (n = 21) and 7 (n = 20) days after reperfusion. Wall motion index and percentage of normally functioning muscle were calculated using a 16-segment scoring system analyzed in blinded fashion without knowledge of patient identity, therapy or time of study. The mean wall motion index improved from 1.78 +/- 0.48 to 1.56 +/- 0.38 at 1 day (n = 19, p less than 0.01), and to 1.48 +/- 0.37 at 3-7 days (p less than 0.01), with no significant difference between 3 days (1.49 +/- 0.39) and 7 days (1.42 +/- 0.30). There was a corresponding improvement in the percentage of normally functioning muscle, from 53 +/- 24% at 6 hours to 62 +/- 20% at 1 day (p less than 0.05) and to 67 +/- 18% at 3-7 days (p less than 0.01), again with no significant difference between 3 days (67 +/- 21) and 7 days (70 +/- 20).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2522271 TI - Significance of spontaneous obstruction of high degree coronary artery stenoses between diagnostic angiography and later percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. AB - Among 265 patients with severe coronary artery stenoses amenable to percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty, 13 (5%) developed new total coronary occlusion of the vessel to be dilated during the period between diagnostic coronary angiography and repeat coronary angiography at the time of the operation. Time from diagnostic to "therapeutic" angiography (76 +/- 74 vs 31 +/- 31 days, p less than 0.0001), degree of coronary stenosis on diagnostic angiography (85 +/- 7 vs 80 +/- 8%, p less than 0.05) and impaired coronary flow distal to the narrowing (Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction grade 2: 38 vs 10%, p less than 0.01) were the only variables related to the occurrence of spontaneous coronary occlusion. The clinical course of the patients who developed new total coronary occlusion was remarkably favorable. Twelve of the 13 patients had unchanged or improved anginal symptoms. The electrocardiogram at rest remained unchanged in 11 patients and there was no transmural myocardial infarction. Eight patients had 2 ventriculograms and the mean ejection fraction remained unchanged (only 2 patients had greater than 5% decrease in ejection fraction between the 2 examinations). Spontaneous occlusion of high degree coronary artery stenoses is not unusual and is usually well tolerated, presumably due to the development of collateral circulation. PMID- 2522272 TI - Increased fluorine-18 deoxyglucose uptake after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty in recently infarcted myocardium. PMID- 2522273 TI - Relation of atrial natriuretic peptide release to atrial contraction. PMID- 2522274 TI - Complement and immune complex nephritis. PMID- 2522275 TI - Renal effects of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and thromboxane receptor antagonists in chronic glomerular disease. PMID- 2522276 TI - Prevalence and significance of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome-related retinal microvasculopathy. AB - We performed ophthalmologic examinations on 127 subjects with or at risk for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection over a one-year period to determine the prevalence and significance of retinal cotton-wool spots and hemorrhages (AIDS-related retinal microvasculopathy). Of 26 asymptomatic homosexual men, of whom 13 were HIV seronegative and 13 were HIV seropositive, none manifested this retinopathy. Three of 34 patients (9%) with AIDS-related complex and 29 of 67 patients (43%) with AIDS manifested retinopathy on the initial examination. This difference in the prevalence of retinopathy between groups was statistically significant (P less than .05). Patients with AIDS demonstrated 7.2 times greater odds of manifesting retinopathy than patients with AIDS-related complex (P less than .05). Within the group of patients with AIDS, the T helper (CD4) to suppressor (CD8) cell ratio was significantly associated with retinopathy at the initial ocular examination. The CD4:CD8 ratio of the total group of AIDS and AIDS related complex patients with retinopathy was significantly lower than that of patients without retinopathy (P less than .05). There was no significant association between retinopathy and any specific past or concurrent opportunistic infection or neoplasm. The presence of retinopathy was not associated with symptoms in any patient. The lesions of AIDS-related retinal microvasculopathy may be an important finding in the evaluation of patients suspected to have HIV related disease. PMID- 2522277 TI - Safe transportation for children with disabilities. AB - Few guidelines are available on providing safe transportation for children who cannot use conventional auto restraints. This article discusses the misuse of restraints and reviews several modified car seats and other restraints that have been tested and that meet safety standards. PMID- 2522278 TI - Modulation of natriuresis by sympathetic nerves and angiotensin II in conscious dogs. AB - The effects of renal perfusion pressure and reflex sympathetic nerve stimulation on sodium excretion were studied in six conscious foxhounds on a normal sodium diet. This was done before, during common carotid occlusion (CCO), and during a recovery period following CCO. Three protocols were used 1) control (n = 6), 2) converting-enzyme inhibition (CEI, n = 6), and 3) CEI combined with a constant renal artery pressure (RAP, n = 5). In protocol 1, CCO increased RAP markedly (140.5 +/- 5.1 vs. 103.0 +/- 4.4 mmHg; P less than 0.001) along with a considerable natriuresis (128.4 +/- 20.1 vs. 86.3 +/- 15.1 mumol Na+/min; P less than 0.05). In protocol 2, CEI increased control sodium excretion but did not impair the natriuresis by CCO. Maintaining RAP at control levels in protocol 3 lead to an antinatriuresis (53.1 +/- 16.8 vs. 128.3 +/- 32.2 mumol Na+/min; P less than 0.05). Creatinine clearance was unaffected by all procedures. In conclusion, a change in ANG II formation shifts but does not impair the natriuretic response to CCO. A moderate sympathetic activation has a pronounced pressure-independent antinatriuretic effect, which is not mediated by angiotensin II. PMID- 2522279 TI - Pericardial pressure attenuates release of atriopeptin in volume-expanded dogs. AB - The role of the pericardium in the release of atriopeptin (AP) was examined, utilizing two separate protocols, in alpha-chloralose-anesthetized dogs. Protocol I consisted of an experimental group (9 dogs), in which the pericardium was incised to allow instrumentation and reapproximated, and a control group (6 dogs), in which the pericardium was left undisturbed. In the experimental group, mean right atrial pressure (Pra) was elevated from a control value of 1.8 +/- 0.9 mmHg (mean +/- SD) to 8.3 +/- 0.8 mmHg for 40 min by volume expansion with isoncotic, lactated Ringer solution. After this period of volume expansion, the pericardium was removed while holding Pra at 8 mmHg. During volume expansion, arterial blood samples for AP analysis were taken at 5, 10, 15, 20, 30, and 40 min, pre- and postpericardiectomy. A similar protocol was followed in the control group. At a Pra of 8 mmHg prepericardiectomy, the plasma AP concentration was 76 +/- 17 pM/l and 74 +/- 38 pM/l in the experimental and control groups, respectively. However, after pericardiectomy, AP levels increased significantly in both the experimental group (136 +/- 41 pM/l; P less than 0.001) and the control group (107 +/- 53 pM/l; P less than 0.025). In protocol II (6 dogs), the pericardium was removed before volume expansion, and Pra was elevated by 2- to 3 mmHg increments and maintained for periods of 13 min at each pressure. AP concentration did not increase until Pra reached 3-4 mmHg.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2522281 TI - Atrial wall function and plasma atriopeptin during volume expansion in conscious dogs. AB - Mean left atrial pressure is believed to be an accurate estimate of atrial stretch in vivo and is used to assess the stimulus for atriopeptin release in both animals and humans. However, for a number of years it has been known that atrial stretch receptor discharge occurs during specific phases of the atrial cycle and that B-receptor discharge correlates with the passive filling of the atrium, which occurs during the V wave. The purpose of this study was to develop the concept that phase-specific changes in atrial wall stress are responsible for atriopeptin secretion. In chronically instrumented conscious dogs, volume expansion (1,000 ml of saline in 5 min) increased left atrial pressure and dimensions and caused a 663 +/- 189% increase in plasma immunoreactive atriopeptin from 44 pg/ml. At this time, mean left atrial pressure increased only 202 +/- 36% (mean +/- SE), whereas A wave pressure increased 146 +/- 19% and V wave pressure increased 290 +/- 67%. A and V wave dimensions increased only a few percent. After developing atrial wall thickness constants for diastole (KCl fixation) and systole (BaCl2 fixation), calculated atrial A wave wall stress increased 163 +/- 25%, and V wave wall stress increased 346 +/- 85%. Minute wall stress (wall stress times heart rate) gave an even better correlation with changes in plasma atriopeptin. V wave minute wall stress increased 690 +/- 168%, whereas A wave wall stress increased 366 +/- 56%.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2522280 TI - Contractile properties of isolated vascular smooth muscle after photoradiation. AB - The purpose of this study was to characterize the responses of various types of vascular smooth muscle to conditions that would be encountered during photodynamic therapy, namely laser illumination of photosensitizer-pretreated tissue. Vascular smooth muscle obtained from representative canine, rodent, and rabbit vascular beds was cut into rings and placed in organ baths (37 degrees C, aerated with 95% O2-5% CO2). These vessels were pretreated for 30 min with the photosensitizer hematoporphyrin derivative (HpD, 3-30 micrograms/ml) washed, and then exposed to red laser light (633 nm, 1-3.5 mW) for up to 20 min. Under basal tension conditions laser illumination of HpD-pretreated vessels resulted in an increase in tension, whereas laser illumination of vessels not exposed to HpD did not contract. This sustained contraction was not reversed by washing the tissue with fresh Krebs-Ringer solution. Responses to norepinephrine, transmural electrical stimulation, and elevated concentrations of KCl were reduced in blood vessels tested after HpD laser illumination. Laser-induced contractions of canine carotid arteries did not require the presence of an intact vascular endothelium. Vascular effect of these photosensitizers appears to involve the formation of oxygen-derived radicals. This preparation could provide a good model for examining the effects of free radicals on vascular physiology. PMID- 2522282 TI - Magnitude of thromboxane receptor antagonism necessary for antithrombotic activity in monkeys. AB - SQ 30741 was characterized as a competitive antagonist of thromboxane receptor mediated platelet activation in vitro that does not inhibit the activity of enzymes involved in prostaglandin, prostacyclin, and thromboxane biosynthesis. The threshold intravenous dose for antithrombotic activity was measured in anesthetized monkeys as the minimum amount of SQ 30741 required to inhibit thrombotic cyclic blood flow reductions in stenotic renal arteries. Platelet responsiveness was measured ex vivo before and during inhibition of thrombosis by the shape-change response to a thromboxane mimetic, U 46619. The threshold antithrombotic SQ 30741 dose (0.32 +/- 0.04 mg/kg; n = 5) was accompanied by an 8.5 +/- 1.1-fold shift to the right of the U 46619 concentration-effect curve, implying antagonism of 87 +/- 3% of platelet thromboxane receptors. The antithrombotic activity of SQ 30741 persisted for 109 +/- 10 min and was not reversed by indomethacin. However, in two out of seven monkeys SQ 30741 (7 mg/kg iv) did not interrupt the cyclical flow reductions. Vehicle treatment did not impede thrombosis and caused a 1.4 +/- 0.3-fold shift of the U 46619 concentration-effect curve (n = 4). In separate monkeys, SQ 30741 (0.33 mg/kg iv) produced identical dose ratios (8.6 +/- 0.7, n = 8) for inhibition of U 46619 induced mesenteric vasoconstriction. Thus the threshold antithrombotic dose of SQ 30741 caused the same magnitude of antagonism of platelet (ex vivo) and vascular (in vivo) thromboxane receptors. PMID- 2522283 TI - Regional variation in rat cardiac myosin isoenzymes and ATPase activity after infarction. AB - Three and 11 wk after coronary artery ligation in rats, the right and left ventricular free wall, septum, and papillary muscles from infarcted and sham operated hearts were analyzed to determine whether regional variability existed in cardiac actomyosin adenosine triphosphate (ATPase) activity and myosin isoenzymes. Infarction produced a 74% greater right ventricular mass and 19% greater septal mass compared with sham-operated hearts at 3 wk. There was no additional increase in cardiac mass associated with infarction from 3 to 11 wk above that expected for normal growth. Actomyosin ATPase activity and the percent V1 myosin heavy-chain isoenzyme decreased significantly in all regions of the infarcted heart by 3 wk. In addition, the left ventricular and papillary muscle of infarcted hearts exhibited a decrease in percent V1 myosin of 18 and 35%, respectively, compared with the right ventricular free wall and septum. These differences persisted at 11 wk, although no further depression of actomyosin ATPase activity or shift in myosin isoenzyme distribution were observed over the 8-wk period. These results demonstrate that myocardial infarction induces a shift in the myosin isoenzyme distribution and depression in actomyosin ATPase activity of surviving cardiac tissue. Regional variability in myosin isoenzymes is evident by 3 wk, but additional adaptation in cardiac mass and myosin biochemistry do not occur beyond this time. PMID- 2522285 TI - Influence of volume expansion on hemodynamic effects of atrial natriuretic factor in rabbits. AB - We investigated the influence of acute volume expansion on the hemodynamic and renal responses to the constant infusion of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) (alpha-human ANP, 2 micrograms/kg bolus, 0.2 microgram.kg-1.min-1) in rabbits anesthetized with ketamine and acepromazine. The effects of the peptide were evaluated in 12 euvolemic rabbits and in 15 rabbits during the steady-state phase of volume expansion (0.9% NaCl 4.5 ml/min for 60 min). In the euvolemic animals, ANF caused an increase in natriuresis and a reduction in blood pressure (BP), which was associated with a decrease in cardiac output (CO), stroke volume (SV), and no significant changes in central venous pressure (CVP), peripheral hematocrit (Hct), and heart rate (HR). When the peptide was infused in the volume expanded animals, the effects of ANF on BP and HR were comparable with those observed in the euvolemic animals. However, in these animals the ANF-induced changes in CO, SV, CVP, and Hct were significantly greater than those observed in the euvolemic group. In addition, the percent increases in diuresis and natriuresis were significantly smaller than those obtained in the euvolemic animals. In conclusion, volume expansion with saline potentiates the effects of ANF on systemic hemodynamics and blood volume. PMID- 2522284 TI - Mechanism for decrease in cardiac output with atrial natriuretic peptide in dogs. AB - To examine the mechanism by which atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) decreases cardiac output, we studied changes in the heart, peripheral circulation, and blood flow distribution in eight dogs. ANP was given as a bolus (3.0 micrograms/kg) followed by an infusion of 0.3 microgram.kg-1.min-1. ANP did not change heart rate, total peripheral vascular resistance, and the first derivative of left ventricular pressure but decreased mean aortic pressure from 91 +/- 4 to 76 +/- 3 mmHg (P less than 0.001) and cardiac output from 153 +/- 15 to 130 +/- 9 ml.kg-1.min-1 (P less than 0.02). Right atrial pressure and left ventricular end diastolic pressure also decreased. Mean circulatory filling pressure decreased from 7.1 +/- 0.3 to 6.0 +/- 0.3 mmHg (P less than 0.001), but venous compliance and unstressed vascular volume did not change. Resistance to venous return increased from 0.056 +/- 0.008 to 0.063 +/- 0.010 mmHg.ml-1.kg.min (P less than 0.05). Arterial compliance increased from 0.060 +/- 0.003 to 0.072 +/- 0.004 ml.mmHg-1.kg-1 (P less than 0.02). Total blood volume and central blood volume decreased from 82.2 +/- 3.1 to 76.2 +/- 4.6 and from 19.8 +/- 0.8 to 17.6 +/- 0.6 ml/kg (P less than 0.02), respectively. Blood flow increased to the kidneys. We conclude that ANP decreases cardiac output by decreasing total blood volume. This results in a lower operating pressure and volume in the venous capacitance system with no significant venodilating effects. Cardiac factors and a redistribution of flow to the splanchnic organs are not important mechanisms to explain the decrease in cardiac output with ANP. PMID- 2522286 TI - Arterial vasodilators, cardiac volume load, and cardiac hypertrophy in normotensive rats. AB - To assess a possible involvement of cardiac volume overload in the development of cardiac hypertrophy during chronic arterial vasodilator treatment, changes in indexes of cardiac volume load in relation to changes in cardiac anatomy were evaluated during treatment of normotensive rats with 120 mg/l hydralazine or 120 mg/l minoxidil, with drinking water. Long-term treatment with hydralazine, but not minoxidil, caused small decreases in systolic blood pressure; neither vasodilator affected heart rate with chronic treatment. Arterial vasodilator treatment for 2 wk or more resulted in increases in plasma and blood volumes by 10-20%. Both arterial vasodilators increased right atrial pressure and left ventricular end-diastolic pressure in the initial weeks of treatment. Only the minoxidil group showed a persistent increase in right atrial pressure throughout the treatment period. These hemodynamic changes were associated with increases in left ventricular (LV) internal diameter and right ventricular (RV) weight, and with minoxidil these changes were also associated with increased LV weight. LV wall thickness did not increase. Cardiac volume overload therefore indeed occurs during treatment with arterial vasodilators and may contribute to their effects on cardiac anatomy (i.e., development of RV hypertrophy and, in the case of minoxidil, also, eccentric LV hypertrophy), which are consistent with cardiac volume overload. PMID- 2522287 TI - Arginine vasopressin potentiates natriuretic effect of atrial peptide. AB - We investigated potentiation of atrial peptide (AP)-induced natriuresis by vasopressin in anesthetized rats. Increasing doses of vasopressin potentiated AP induced natriuresis in a dose-dependent manner, e.g., sodium excretion during AP administration (290 ng/min) was 0.66 +/- 0.16, 2.02 +/- 0.68, 5.21 +/- 1.38 and 7.08 +/- 1.96 mu eq/min during infusion of 0.00, 0.78, 1.56, and 3.12 ng.kg-1.min 1 of vasopressin, respectively. Vasopressin alone had no effect on sodium excretion. In a second experiment, vasopressin (1.56 ng.kg-1.min-1) potentiated AP (128 ng/min)-induced natriuresis similar to that seen in the first experiment. In this experiment, glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and mean arterial pressure were monitored. Mean arterial pressure was no different between the groups treated with AP plus vasopressin and AP alone. Glomerular filtration was actually reduced in the group treated with vasopressin plus AP, suggesting that neither changes in GFR nor blood pressure were responsible for potentiation of the natriuresis. A third experiment compared the ability of 1-desamino-8-D-arginine vasopressin (dDAVP), a nonpressor analogue of vasopressin, to vasopressin in enhancing AP (145 ng/min)-induced natriuresis. The nonpressor analogue did not potentiate AP-induced natriuresis, whereas vasopressin had the same effect as in the first two experiments. These are the first studies to report a functional interaction between AP and vasopressin. They show that vasopressin potentiates AP induced natriuresis without altering mean arterial pressure or GFR. PMID- 2522289 TI - Pharmacokinetics of sufentanil in patients undergoing abdominal aortic surgery. AB - The authors determined the pharmacokinetics of sufentanil, 12.5 micrograms.kg-1 iv in patients undergoing elective abdominal aortic surgery. The mean age (+/- SD) of the ten patients was 68.4 +/- 7.9 yr; their mean weight was 74.4 +/- 19.1 kg. Six patients underwent aortobifemoral grafting and four had abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. Serum sufentanil concentrations were determined in samples drawn at increasing intervals over a 24-h period. A three-compartment pharmacokinetic model was fit to the concentration versus time data. Total drug clearance was 15.0 +/- 3.2 ml.min-1.kg-1. The volume of distribution at steady-state (Vdss) was 8.7 +/- 4.5 l.kg-1. The elimination half-time were positively correlated with patient age. There were no significant correlations between the pharmacokinetic variables and the duration of aortic cross-clamping, the duration of surgery, or the rate or total volume of iv fluids given intraoperatively. In general surgical patients, the mean elimination half-time of sufentanil has been reported to be 2.7 h. When sufentanil is used in large doses as the primary anesthetic agent for patients undergoing abdominal aortic surgery, the long elimination half-time observed implies that recovery will take much longer than would have been anticipated from previously published pharmacokinetic data. PMID- 2522288 TI - Type C Niemann-Pick disease: clinical and biochemical studies on 6 cases. AB - Clinical and biochemical studies were performed on 6 cases of type C Niemann-Pick disease. Neurological symptoms started in early infancy in 3 cases, and in childhood in the other 3 cases. However, no clear discriminations were possible with regard to neurological and general somatic manifestations between these two groups. All patients showed normal or slightly low sphingomyelinase and beta glucosidase activities in fibroblasts, and a defect of esterification of exogenous cholesterol. The extent of these abnormalities was not correlated with the clinical course or severity of this disease. PMID- 2522290 TI - Desensitization to trimethoprim sulfamethoxazole in patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome and Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia. AB - In three of eight patients with the acquired immune deficiency syndrome the Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia treated with intravenous trimethoprim sulfamethoxazole, drug-related reactions occurred 9, 10, and 13 days after therapy. The symptom complex consisted of a maculopapular eruption, fever, eosinophilia, and leukopenia. Oral desensitization with graded doses of trimethoprim sulfamethoxazole was successfully achieved in two of the three patients. PMID- 2522291 TI - Care of the patient after coronary angioplasty. AB - Because coronary angioplasty is being increasingly used as a treatment for coronary artery disease, the proper evaluation and management of patients after the procedure are important issues. Although coronary angioplasty is a complex technical procedure, the methods routinely used to evaluate its results have many shortcomings. Although the initial results of the procedure are assessed most commonly by the visual interpretation of video images and coronary angiograms, quantitative angiography, trans-stenotic pressure gradients, and coronary flow reserve measurements have also been used. In the period after coronary angioplasty, success can be evaluated by patients' clinical improvement in symptoms and their stress responses to various functional tests. The management of the patient during the first 24 hours after angioplasty should focus on the prevention, detection, and, if necessary, treatment of acute vessel closure. During the subsequent 6 months, the emphasis should shift to the evaluation of recurrent symptoms and prevention of restenosis. We discuss the methods used to assess the results of coronary angioplasty and suggest guidelines for managing patients after the procedure. PMID- 2522292 TI - From the MMWR. Preliminary report: 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin exposure to humans--Seveso, Italy. PMID- 2522293 TI - Prevalence and clinical spectrum of skin disease in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus. AB - We examined 100 serial patients who were receiving care in a county outpatient immunodeficiency clinic and whose serum was positive by Western blot test for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Skin disorders were found in 92% of these HIV infected patients, with little difference in prevalence or severity in three clinical categories: patients with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome-related complex, and those who were asymptomatic. Patients positive for HIV antibodies had significantly more skin disease, with the exception of dermatophytosis, than did a historical control population. A strong association was observed between the use of zidovudine and the absence of infection with Candida albicans. We conclude that there is a high prevalence of skin disease in HIV-positive patients who seek medical care, and that specialists in skin disease should be included in these patients' initial evaluation and continuing care. PMID- 2522294 TI - A longitudinal study of contact sensitivity in patients with atopic dermatitis. AB - Sensitization trials with dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB) were performed in 150 patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) (24 severe, 86 moderate, and 40 mild cases). Dinitrochlorobenzene challenge tests were positive in 33% (8/24) of severe cases, in 95% (82/86) of moderate cases, and in 100% (40/40) of mild cases, indicating that DNCB contact sensitivity is diminished only in patients with AD who have extensive skin lesions. Of the 20 patients who were nonreactive on the first DNCB challenge tests, 18 became reactive on the second challenge tests that were performed at the time when the dermatitis was well controlled. It is likely that the suppressed contact sensitivity seen in patients with AD is secondary to the disease. PMID- 2522295 TI - Facet syndrome. PMID- 2522296 TI - Dehydroepiandrosterone feeding prevents aortic fatty streak formation and cholesterol accumulation in cholesterol-fed rabbit. AB - The concentration of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) in human plasma is higher than any other steroid. Recent evidence has suggested an inverse relationship between plasma DHEA levels and the development of coronary atherosclerosis in humans. We used the cholesterol-fed rabbit model to investigate whether DHEA feeding would diminish aortic fatty streak formation in this model. Fifteen New Zealand White rabbits were fed rabbit chow supplemented with 0.5% cholesterol (wt/wt). Seven animals were, in addition, fed DHEA, 0.5% of diet (wt/wt). Animals were sacrificed after 2 months, and the aortic involvement with fatty streaks was evaluated by computerized planimetry of Sudan IV-stained aortas and by chemical analysis of aortic wall lipids. Compared to controls, DHEA fed animals had similar plasma levels of total, very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), low density lipoprotein (LDL), and high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, corticoids, and estrogens. DHEA-fed animals had higher plasma levels of total, VLDL, and LDL triglycerides and lower HDL triglycerides than did controls. DHEA feeding resulted in 30% and 40%, respectively, inhibition of fatty streak formation by chemical analysis and planimetry. We conclude that DHEA feeding inhibits the development of aortic fatty streaks in cholesterol-fed rabbits, independent of changes in plasma total and LDL cholesterol levels of DHEA conversion to estrogens or corticoids. PMID- 2522297 TI - The effect of the thromboxane A2 receptor antagonist SQ 29,548 on the severity of pacing-induced ischemia. AB - The effect of the thromboxane A2 (TXA2)/prostaglandin endoperoxide receptor antagonist, SQ 29,548 on pacing-induced ischemia was determined in anesthetized open-chest dogs. The dogs were subjected to a left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) stenosis sufficient to result in ischemia as measured by epicardial ST-segment elevation only when the hearts were paced 70-80 beats/min above baseline. After a recovery (nonpacing) period, either 0.2 mg/kg + 0.2 mg/kg/hr SQ 29,548 or saline was infused i.v. The animals were subjected to 5 min periods of pacing before and 10, 40 or 70 min after the initiation of drug or saline treatment. Before drug treatment, pacing + LAD stenosis resulted in significant ST-elevation in both groups (11.5 +/- 1.1 mV and 12.4 +/- 0.6 mV for saline and SQ 29,548 groups, respectively). During drug treatment, SQ 29,548 significantly reduced ST-elevation during pacing + stenosis at 40 and 70 min. At 70 min, ST elevation was 4.9 +/- 1.7 mV for the SQ 29,548 group vs 10.8 +/- 1.2 mV for the saline group (p less than 0.05). In separate experiments 0.2 mg/kg + 0.2 mg/kg/hr SQ 29,548 antagonized the activity of a TXA2 mimetic, U-46,619, for femoral vasoconstriction, causing 100-to-200 fold rightward shifts in dose response relationships. Thus, a dose of SQ 29,548 capable of strong TXA2-receptor blockade reduced the severity of ischemia, and this effect was independent of changes in arterial blood pressure and heart rate. PMID- 2522298 TI - Myocardial O2 supply and consumption in early cardiac hypertrophy of renal hypertensive rabbits. AB - This study examined myocardial O2 supply and O2 consumption in hypertension induced myocardial hypertrophy. New Zealand white rabbits prepared as uninephrectomized (sham) controls (n = 7), or one kidney/one clip (1K1C) hypertensive rabbits (n = 7) were examined four weeks after surgery. A group of renally intact "true" controls (n = 4) was also examined. Coronary blood flow (CBF) was measured with radioactive microspheres in anesthetized open chest animals during baseline and vasodilated conditions (adenosine, 0.4 mg/kg/min). Microvascular O2 saturations were determined by microspectrophotometry. Myocardial oxygen consumption (MVO2) was calculated. Mean pressure was elevated in hypertensive animals (121 +/- 7 mmHg, means +/- SE) compared to uninephrectomized controls (74 +/- 7 mmHg). Hypertrophy was indicated by a 30% increase in heart weight to body weight ratio in the 1K1C animals. The average MVO2 was elevated in hypertrophy (12.4 +/- 0.9 vs. 9.6 +/- 0.8 ml O2/min/100 g). Baseline CBF was higher in cardiac hypertrophy (227 +/- 21 ml/min/100 g) compared to sham controls (169 +/- 14 ml/min/100 g). In hypertrophy the percent increase in CBF during adenosine infusion was reduced and the minimal vascular resistance was higher. No difference in microvascular O2 saturations was observed between groups, thus O2 extraction was similar. No subepicardial vs. subendocardial difference occurred within either the sham controls or the 1K1C animals in any parameter. Therefore, an overall increased MVO2 resulted in increased CBF and reduced coronary flow reserve in short-term renovascular hypertension-induced cardiac hypertrophy in rabbits. PMID- 2522299 TI - cDNA-cloning, sequencing and expression in glucocorticoid-stimulated quiescent Swiss 3T3 fibroblasts of mouse lipocortin I. AB - We isolated and sequenced mouse lipocortin I cDNA clones from a lambda gt10 cDNA library prepared from Swiss 3T3 mRNA. The homology with human lipocortin I at the amino acid level is 86%. When confluent layers of Swiss 3T3 cells were stimulated with 10% fetal calf serum, expression of lipocortin I was strongly stimulated. In parallel, DNA synthesis was induced with a peak at 24 hours after glucocorticoid treatment indicating induction of cell proliferation. In the absence of serum glucocorticoid treatment provoked neither induction of DNA synthesis nor expression of lipocortin I. We conclude that serum contains an unidentified factor, which acts synergistically with glucocorticoids on cell proliferation and lipocortin I expression. PMID- 2522300 TI - The calmodulin-stimulated ATPase of maize coleoptiles forms a phosphorylated intermediate. AB - The calmodulin-stimulated ATPase of maize coleoptiles is a 140,000 Mr polypeptide. In the present study, formation of a phosphorylated intermediate by the enzyme is demonstrated. Phosphorylation is sensitive to chasing with unlabelled ATP and to hydroxylamine; lanthanum enhances its intensity while calmodulin enhances phosphorylation in the presence of lanthanum but not in its absence. Ethyleneglycol-bis-(beta-aminoethyl ether) N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid (EGTA) inhibits phosphorylation of the purified enzyme, but microsome preparations give a band of phosphorylation of 153,000 Mr in its presence. This latter phosphorylated band was not abolished after a variety of permeabilising treatments in the presence of Triton X-100; phosphorylation of the enzyme was absent when sodium deoxycholate was used as the solubilising detergent. The identity of the 153,000 Mr band is discussed. PMID- 2522301 TI - Rapid postnatal changes in F1-ATPase proteins and in the uncoupling protein in brown adipose tissue mitochondria of the newborn rat. AB - Changes in F1-ATPase and UCP protein contents and in the activity of respiratory complexes I, II and IV of brown adipose tissue mitochondria are reported during the first 0-6 hours of life in the rat. Mitochondrial UCP/F1-ATPase protein ratio is used to define the onset of thermogenic differentiation of brown adipose tissue mitochondria. It is concluded that mitochondrial differentiation occurs soon after birth and that the process is accelerated by hypothermic conditions. PMID- 2522303 TI - Chronic nicotine use blocks haloperidol-induced increase in striatal D2-dopamine receptor density. AB - Epidemiologic studies have suggested a positive association in man between nicotine use and the incidence of tardive dyskinesia, a disease characterized by dopaminergic supersensitivity after chronic neuroleptic therapy. In rats, repeated administration of neuroleptics results into dopaminergic supersensitivity and increased density of striatal D2-dopamine receptors. We investigated the effects of 6-week continuous nicotine intake on the neuroleptic (haloperidol)-induced increase in murine striatal D2-dopamine receptor density. Contrary to expectations, our data show that nicotine blocked the increase in D2 dopamine receptor density after neuroleptic administration. PMID- 2522302 TI - Purification and characterization of a calcium binding protein with "synexin like" activity from human blood platelets. AB - A calcium binding protein of Mr = 54,000 has been isolated from human blood platelets. This protein has been shown to enhance Ca2+-induced aggregation of phosphatidylserine liposomes, suggesting that it may be a member of a recently recognized class of binding proteins known to interact with phospholipids and the membrane in a Ca2+ dependent manner. Because of the "synexin-like" activity of this protein it may be involved in Ca2+ regulated platelet secretion as well as cell motility. PMID- 2522304 TI - Phospholipase A2 inhibitory activity in thymocytes of dexamethasone-treated mice- possible implication of lipocortins. AB - The cellular phospholipase A2 activity of mouse thymocytes was estimated in vitro by the release of [3H]-Arachidonic acid from labeled and calcium ionophore A23187 stimulated cells. This activity was decreased in thymocytes from dexamethasone treated mice. Thus, the presence of phospholipase A2 inhibitory proteins in mouse thymus was investigated. Three main proteins (36 kDa I, 36 kDa II, 73 kDa) were purified. These proteins were able to inhibit both phospholipase A2 in vitro, and the release of [3H]-Arachidonic acid from labeled and stimulated mouse thymocytes. Biochemical analysis revealed that the three proteins were lipocortin like proteins. Our results show that in vivo dexamethasone treatment induces a phospholipase A2 inhibitory activity in mouse thymus, such an inhibition can be reproduced on isolated thymocytes by purified thymic lipocortins, known as glucocorticosteroid-inducible proteins. PMID- 2522305 TI - Stress and behavior in streptozotocin diabetic rats: biochemical correlates of passive avoidance learning. AB - Retention of one-trial passive avoidance training was compared in diabetic and nondiabetic rats. Also compared were corticosterone concentrations associated with both training and retention testing, catecholamine excretion related to training, and regional brain catecholamine concentrations accompanying retention testing. Diabetic rats showed significantly better retention for the task than did nondiabetic rats. Associated with retention differences, diabetic rats had higher epinephrine excretion and nondiabetic rats had lower excretion after footshock training relative to baseline measures. Norepinephrine excretion was elevated in diabetics both in baseline measurement and during the 24 hr following footshock training. No differences were found in baseline or stimulated corticosterone concentration between diabetic and nondiabetic rats. Diabetic rats had higher concentrations of norepinephrine (NE) and dopamine (DA) and lower 3,4 dihydroxyphenylacetic acid/dopamine (DOPAC/DA) ratios in hypothalamus and higher NE in brain stem and amygdala than did nondiabetics, although both diabetic and nondiabetic rats had reduced DA and NE following retention testing. The results indicate that there are biochemical alterations in diabetes that may have important behavioral impact. PMID- 2522306 TI - Kynurenic acid protects against the neurochemical and behavioral effects of unilateral quinolinic acid injections into the nucleus basalis of rats. AB - It has recently been demonstrated that kynurenic acid (KYN), an endogenous tryptophan metabolite, provides almost complete protection against the neurotoxic and mnemonic effects of another tryptophan metabolite quinolinic acid (QUIN) on the cell bodies of the nucleus basalis magnocellularis (nbm). The present study further investigated whether unilateral coinjections of KYN and QUIN into the rat nbm antagonized the effects of QUIN alone. Food-deprived rats were pretrained on an eight-arm radial maze, with four arms baited, until choice accuracy stabilized to greater than or equal to 87% correct. Postoperatively, rats were tested on the radial maze for 32 consecutive days. Feeding behavior and locomotor activity were also measured to determine if nonassociative factors accounted for any observed behavioral deficits. QUIN lesions resulted in significantly more working and reference memory errors compared with sham-operated and coinjected animals, which did not differ significantly from each other. There were no reliable group differences in amount of food eaten or locomotor activity. The QUIN group had a reliable decrease in cortical choline acetyltransferase, with no significant changes for the sham and coinjected groups. Results confirm that KYN antagonizes the neurotoxic and mnemonic effects of QUIN alone and suggest that the memory deficits induced by nbm lesions cannot be solely attributed to changes in feeding or locomotor activity. PMID- 2522308 TI - Cusp movement of molar teeth with composite filling materials in conventional and modified MOD cavities. AB - One hundred and twenty caries-free molar teeth were stored in saline. Three types of cavities were prepared in these teeth: conventional MOD, parallel-sided MOD with no buccal or lingual extensions, and a slit cavity. Cavity dimensions were recorded. Each group of teeth were restored with either a microfine or conventional composite, used in conjunction with a dentine adhesive. Cusp movement was recorded via two linear variable displacement transducers attached to the cusps. Using dye penetration studies, the marginal adaptation of the material to the teeth was assessed. In a small number of cases, the amount and type of cuspal movement and the degree of dye penetration was variable, depending on cavity design and the composite used, but generally cusp movement was unaffected by variation in cavity outline. PMID- 2522307 TI - Using the "integral spleen" method of radiorenogram analysis and a baboon model to compare the diagnostic usefulness of technetium-99m-diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid to that of various technetium-99m-mercaptoacetyltriglycene formulations and iodine-123-hippuran. AB - In light of the high price of commercially available mercaptoacetyltriglycene (MAG3) it was decided to attempt a local MAG3-formation and to test this against diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (DTPA), 123I-Hippuran, and commercial MAG3 for diagnostic radiorenographic capabilities also in conjunction with furosemide and captopril. A baboon model (n = 6) was used, and the parameters evaluated were obtained by the "integral spleen" method of radiorenogram analysis. Although the images and parameters pointed to 123I-Hippuran and commercial MAG3 as the ideal renal scanning agents and to DTPA as the least so, with the local product an acceptable alternative, the differences were not significant enough to warrant either the purchase of the commercial product or the extensive development of the local product. Inexpensive 99mTc-DTPA in conjunction with modern computer techniques will probably supply most of the answers. PMID- 2522309 TI - Renovascular hypertension. Diagnosis and intervention. AB - Hypertension constitutes a major health problem and the challenge is to identify patients having 'surgically' curable renal vascular disease among the majority with so-called essential hypertension. The best of unsatisfactory diagnostic tests are renography and plasma renin activity both before and during angiotensin II blockade. The necessity of better screening tests has increased because of the recent advances in surgical techniques and especially percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty. The latter has definitely become the method of choice for correction of suspected hemodynamically significant artery stenoses whenever technically feasible. With improved angioplasty techniques the risk of treating renal artery stenosis without hemodynamic and clinical importance (so-called cosmetic repair) has increased. Unfortunately randomized trials including surgery versus angioplasty are not available. It should be kept in mind that only after correction of the stenosis is achieved and the blood pressure has become normal, can the diagnosis of renovascular hypertension be made with certainty. PMID- 2522311 TI - Coronary ostial stenosis after radiotherapy: angioplasty or coronary artery surgery? AB - A thirty year old man underwent coronary angioplasty for an isolated ostial stenosis of the ostium of the right coronary artery after mediastinal radiotherapy given ten years previously. Despite an angiographically acceptable angioplasty result, he had a myocardial infarction two months later and coronary artery surgery was performed. The most effective form of myocardial revascularisation for radiotherapy related coronary artery lesions remains to be established. PMID- 2522310 TI - Plasma atrial natriuretic peptide in patients with acute myocardial infarction: effects of streptokinase. AB - Plasma concentrations of immunoreactive atrial natriuretic peptide (mean (SEM] were measured in 135 patients admitted to two coronary care units with myocardial infarction, ischaemic chest pain, or non-ischaemic chest pain. Concentrations were significantly higher in patients with acute myocardial infarction not treated with systemic thrombolysis (60.4 (14.3) pg/ml) than in patients with non ischaemic chest pain (21.1 (4.3) pg/ml). Patients with ischaemic chest pain had intermediate values (39.3 (7.1) pg/ml). Patients with acute myocardial infarction treated with intravenous streptokinase had normal concentrations of plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (20.2 (3.6) pg/mg), which were significantly lower than those in patients with myocardial infarction not given streptokinase. These changes could not be explained by factors such as age, pre-existing hypertension, renal dysfunction, or cardiac failure, nor treatment other than streptokinase. Raised plasma concentrations of atrial natriuretic peptide in acute myocardial infarction may be a homoeostatic response acting to reduce atrial pressures by natriuresis, diuresis, and venodilatation. The lower concentrations of atrial natriuretic peptide in patients with acute myocardial infarction treated with streptokinase may reflect a short term beneficial haemodynamic effect of streptokinase. PMID- 2522312 TI - Vitiligo following diphencyprone dermatitis. PMID- 2522313 TI - Increase in the suppressor-inducer T cell subset in multiple myeloma and monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance. AB - The expression of CD4 (helper-inducer), CD8 (suppressor-cytotoxic) and CD4 subpopulations (2H4 and 4B4) were studied in patients with multiple myeloma, monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) and in healthy controls. The percentages of CD4+ cells and CD8+ cells among total T cells were not different between the three groups studied. However the percentage of CD4+ cells of the suppressor-inducer type (CD4 + 2H4 +) was 53 +/- 9% in patients with MGUS, and 51 +/- 9% in those with MM, compared to 46 +/- 5 in the controls (P = 0.033 and P = 0.07 respectively). A significant negative correlation between serum polyclonal IgM and the percentage of CD4 + 2H4 + cells was found in patients with MM but not in those with MGUS. No difference was found in the percentage of CD4 + 4B4 + (helper CD4+ cells) between the various groups. These findings suggest that the elevation of the suppressor-inducer subset occurs prior to clinical manifestations of MM, perhaps as an immune response to the malignant clone. The existence of elevated proportions of CD4 suppressor-inducer cells was associated with the hypogammaglobulinaemia observed in patients with MM. Since no hypogammaglobulinaemia was present in those with MGUS, additional factors are needed to explain the influence of the CD4 + 2H4 + cells on the production of immunoglobulins. PMID- 2522314 TI - Antithrombotic and bleeding effects of glycosaminoglycans with different degrees of sulphation. AB - We recently reported that the in vitro anticoagulant activities of dermatan sulphate and heparan sulphate were improved with increased sulphation. In this study we determined how the degree of sulphation of glycosaminoglycans influences their antithrombotic and bleeding effects in vivo. We compared the antithrombotic effects of each glycosaminoglycan by measuring their ability to inhibit experimentally-induced thrombus formation in rabbit jugular veins. The bleeding effect of each glycosaminoglycan was measured by comparing their ability to increase the amount of 51Cr-blood lost from five standardized cuts in rabbit ears. Increased sulphation only improved the antithrombotic effects of dermatan sulphate and heparan sulphate. In contrast, increased sulphation enhanced the blood loss associated with all the glycosaminoglycans evaluated. We conclude that the antithrombotic effects of heparan sulphate and dermatan sulphate can be enhanced by increased sulphation, but that the improved antithrombotic effects are compromised by the concomitant increase in bleeding side-effects. PMID- 2522315 TI - Side effects of lumbar punctures performed in a multiple sclerosis clinic. PMID- 2522316 TI - The place of laparoscopy in women with ascites. AB - Laparoscopy was performed in 70 women with ascites of unknown origin, and in 56 a visual diagnosis, aided by biopsy, was made. There was carcinoma in 32, tuberculosis in 20 and cirrhosis of the liver in four. No abnormality was seen in 14. PMID- 2522318 TI - Hand in glove with the orthodontist? PMID- 2522317 TI - Scanning electron microscope appearance of the enamel/composite/bracket areas using different methods of surface enamel treatment, composite mix and bracket loading. AB - Minimal plaque retention on and around orthodontic brackets is of paramount importance if iatrogenic tooth damage is to be avoided. This study made use of the scanning electron microscope to examine how variations in composite mix and finishing affected the smoothness and adaptation at the bracket, composite, and enamel interfaces. The study indicated that the optimum choice for good composite/enamel adaptation with a smooth composite surface and good composite/bracket adaptation involves the use of an intermediate unfilled resin layer, a paste/liquid mix of composite placed on a bracket which is optimally loaded, and no excess composite removed with an instrument. PMID- 2522319 TI - A respiratory-driven and an artificially driven ATP synthesis in mutants of Vibrio parahaemolyticus lacking H+-translocating ATPase. AB - Mutants of Vibrio parahaemolyticus lacking the H+-translocating ATPase were isolated to evaluate both the role of this enzyme and the possibility of the involvement of other cation-translocating ATPase in the energy transduction in this organism. Dicyclohexylcarbodiimide-sensitive ATPase activity which represents the H+-translocating ATPase was not detected either in the membrane vesicles or in the cytosol of the mutants. Three major subunits, alpha, beta and gamma, of the H+-translocating ATPase were missing in the membranes of the mutants. Although ATP was synthesized in wild type cells when an artificial H+ gradient was imposed, little ATP was synthesized in the mutants. However, we observed a large ATP synthesis driven by the respiration not only in the wild type but also in the mutants. The respiratory-driven ATP synthesis in wild type was inhibited by an H+ conductor, carbonylcyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazone, by about 50%. On the other hand, the ATP synthesis in the mutants was not affected by the H+ conductor. Since this organism possesses a respiratory Na+ pump, Na+ coupled ATP synthesis might take place. In fact, we observed some ATP synthesis driven by an artificially imposed Na+ gradient both in the wild type and the mutant. PMID- 2522320 TI - Reaction of 2-azido-ATP with beta subunits in the F1-adenosine triphosphatase of Escherichia coli. AB - The three beta subunits of the Escherichia coli F1-ATPase react independently with chemical reagents (Stan Lotter, H. and Bragg, P.D. (1986) Arch. Biochem. Biophys. 248, 116-120). Thus, one beta subunit is readily cross-linked to the epsilon subunit, another reacts with N,N'-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCCD), and the third one is modified by 4-chloro-7-nitrobenzofurazan (NbfCl). The relationship of the binding site for 2-azido-ATP to the three types of beta subunit recognized by chemical labeling was examined. The binding site for 2 azido-ATP was not associated with a specific type of beta-subunit. There was no relationship between the site of nucleotide and the association of the epsilon subunit with a particular beta subunit. It is concluded that the presence of the epsilon subunit (possibly in association with the other minor subunits) does not determine the position of the catalytic site. The possibility that the lack of a specific relationship between the 2-azido-ATP binding site and a specific beta subunit was due to turnover of the enzyme, making each beta a catalytic site in turn, could not be entirely rejected. However, the rate of hydrolysis of 2-azido ATP by the DCCD-modified ATPase was very low in the presence of EDTA, and was likely due to catalysis at single sites. PMID- 2522321 TI - Damaging action of photodynamic treatment in combination with hyperthermia on transmembrane transport in murine L929 fibroblasts. AB - Photodynamic treatment of murine L929 fibroblasts with hematoporphyrin derivative caused inhibition of the 2-aminoisobutyric acid transport system. This was reflected by an increase in the apparent Km with a constant Vmax, indicating impairment of the carrier function rather than a decrease of the number of transport sites. Hyperthermic treatment of these cells resulted in a moderate decrease of the activity of the 2-aminoisobutyric acid transport system. Overall protein synthesis was severely inhibited both by photodynamic treatment and by hyperthermia. Hyperthermia subsequent to photodynamic treatment resulted in an additive inhibition of 2-aminoisobutyric acid transport and of protein synthesis. After photodynamic treatment both 2-aminoisobutyric acid transport and protein synthesis were repaired. The repair of 2-aminoisobutyric acid transport depended on protein synthesis, as shown by the virtually complete blockage of repair by anisomycin. After hyperthermia (either alone or subsequent to photodynamic treatment), no recovery of 2-aminoisobutyric acid transport was observed, although protein synthesis was restored to the initial level. Apparently, hyperthermia subsequent to photodynamic treatment blocks the repair of photodynamically induced damage of this transport system. The experimental results further indicate that protein synthesis is not the rate-determining step for the repair of 2-aminoisobutyric acid transport, although it is necessary in this process. Cell survival was decreased both by photodynamic treatment and by hyperthermia. The combined effects of these two treatments were additive. It is discussed that these results indicate that photodynamic inhibition of 2 aminoisobutyric acid transport is not causally related to loss of clonogenicity, contrary to earlier suggestions. PMID- 2522322 TI - [Neuropeptides in the mechanisms of the activation of escape reactions induced by stimulation of the ventromedial hypothalamus during food motivation satiation]. AB - Influence of food intake on hypothalamically induced avoidance reactions have been studied in rabbits. It was shown that first contact with food and beginning of food intake accompany with activation of avoidance reactions. Central action of cholecystokinin-octapeptide, pentagastrin, beta-endorphin and naloxone on avoidance reactions of fed and fasted rabbits before and during food intake was investigated. It was found that injection of cholecystokinin and naloxone, which had a satiated effect, act on avoidance reactions similarly in fed and fasted rabbits. Beta-endorphin inhibits avoidance behavior, and only pentagastrin activates avoidance reactions of fasted but not fed rabbits. It is concerned that influence of feeding motivation may modulate avoidance behavior by participation of endogenous gastrin-like peptide release into the perineuronal area during contact of rabbits with food and beginning of its intake. PMID- 2522323 TI - [Effect of delta sleep-inducing peptide, anticonvulsant preparations and nicotinamide on generalized seizure activity]. AB - The influence of delta-sleep inducing peptide (DSIP) upon seizures induced by corazol, bicuculline, picrotoxin, strychnine, thiosemicarbazide were investigated in experiments on F1(CBA X C57 BL/6) mice. It was shown that DSIP increased the latency of first seizure manifestation which were induced by corazol, bicuculline and picrotoxin and also resulted in a suppression of seizure severity of corazol and bicuculline induced seizures. Anticonvulsant action of DSIP was evident under the condition of the mild severity seizures development. The effect of DSIP was mostly pronounced in range of its doses from 10 to 100 mcg/kg. DSIP when combined with phenobarbital, carbamazepine, diphenylhydantoin or nicotinamide enhanced the antiepileptic effects of these anticonvulsant drugs. PMID- 2522324 TI - [Effect of tissue-specific proliferation inhibitors on the level of mitotic activity and cell adhesion in disordered innervation]. AB - In the work there was studied the influence of hepatic chalones on the level of mitotic activity and on the degree of adhesion of hepatocytes after the violation of parasympathetic and sympathetic innervation under the physiological conditions of liver function and in regenerating organ. Some definite regularities were revealed in the change of the power of linkage among the cells of liver parenchyma after the disturbance of its innervation and chalones affected. Significant differences in the effect of the influence of tissue inhibitors of proliferation on the process of regeneration in liver, which has intact or disturbed innervation were discovered. Particularly one can underline the effect of the loss of hepatocytes sensitivity to chalones in vagotomized liver. PMID- 2522325 TI - Spacer device with face mask attachment for giving bronchodilators to infants with asthma. PMID- 2522326 TI - Necrosis of skin induced by coumarin in a patient deficient in protein S. PMID- 2522327 TI - Screening for hepatitis B and vaccination of homosexual men. PMID- 2522328 TI - Income and standards of living of disabled people. PMID- 2522329 TI - Perceived control of recovery from physical disability: measurement and prediction. AB - Perceived personal control has been found to be predictive of desirable outcomes in a variety of health care settings. It was hypothesized that it would also explain some of the variance in adaptation to and coping with physical disability and would therefore be predictive of recovery. A Recovery Locus of Control scale (RLOC) was developed, independent judges agreeing on five internal and four external items. The scale was shown to have good internal consistency when used with adults recently disabled by a stroke or wrist fracture. Patients' RLOC was assessed at the start of rehabilitation and recovery from physical disability was monitored using measures appropriate for each clinical group. In both groups, greater internality was associated with faster recovery. Results are discussed with respect to the likely mediating factors and the role of health professionals in facilitating internality. PMID- 2522330 TI - A comparison of serological, cellular and DNA-RFLP methods for HLA matching in the selection of related bone marrow donors. AB - Serological, cellular and DNA-RFLP (restriction fragment length polymorphism) methods of determining HLA compatibility between 10 leukaemic patients and potential related bone marrow donors were systematically compared. DR beta/DQ alpha/DQ beta/DNA-RFLP typing of these families gave results in agreement with those obtained by serological methods (matching for HLA-A, -B and -DR), supported by mixed lymphocyte culture (MLC) data, indicating the validity and accuracy of DNA-RFLP matching in transplantation. However, a significant minority of four leukaemic patients plus two healthy individuals were not clearly HLA-DR typable by serology, but all such individuals were easily typable by DNA-RFLP. These results were supported by MLC data, where available. In addition, all data were in agreement with previously reported correlations between DNA-RFLPs and HLA-DR serology, allowing unambiguous assignment of HLA-DR types where these were previously in doubt. These results demonstrate the value of DNA-RFLP HLA class II DR and DQ typing in leukaemic patients requiring marrow transplantation who are not clearly typable by traditional methods and suggest that this approach should constitute an important element of future HLA matching programmes for bone marrow transplantation. PMID- 2522331 TI - Common problems in laser laparoscopy. PMID- 2522332 TI - Role of endoperoxides in arachidonic acid-induced vasoconstriction in the isolated perfused kidney of the rat. AB - 1. Administration of arachidonic acid caused dose-dependent vasoconstriction in the isolated rat kidney perfused in situ with Krebs-Henseleit solution. 2. Inhibition of cyclo-oxygenase with indomethacin or meclofenamate reduced the renal vasoconstrictor effect of arachidonic acid. 3. The renal vasoconstrictor effect of arachidonic acid was unaffected by CGS-13080 at concentrations that effectively reduced thromboxane A2 (TxA2) synthesis by platelets and the kidney. 4. The endoperoxide/TxA2 receptor antagonist, SQ 29,548, abolished the renal vasoconstrictor effect of arachidonic acid and of U46619, an endoperoxide analogue. In contrast, SQ 29,548 did not affect the renal vasoconstrictor response to angiotensin II, prostaglandin E2 or F2 alpha. 5. These data suggest that the vasoconstrictor effect of arachidonic acid in the isolated kidney of the rat is mediated by its metabolites, including the prostaglandin endoperoxides. PMID- 2522333 TI - Carotid haemodynamics in pigs during infusions of 8-OH-DPAT: reduction in arteriovenous shunting is mediated by 5-HT1-like receptors. AB - 1. The effects of intracarotid infusions of 8-hydroxy-2-[di-n-propyl-amino] tetralin (8-OH-DPAT) on heart rate, blood pressure and carotid blood flow and its distribution were studied in anaesthetized pigs by use of radioactive microspheres of 15 microns diameter. 2. Control experiments with physiological saline showed that systemic and carotid haemodynamics remain essentially unchanged during the experimental period. In contrast to results obtained in rat, cat and dog experiments, 8-OH-DPAT did not decrease arterial blood pressure. 3. 8 OH-DPAT, which has a high affinity and is selective for the 5-HT1A recognition site, caused a dose-related decrease in arteriovenous anastomotic (non-nutrient) blood flow, resulting in a decrease in carotid blood flow. At the highest dose used, a small increase in arteriolar (nutrient) blood flow was observed. 4. The decrease in arteriovenous anastomotic and carotid blood flow induced by 8-OH-DPAT was not significantly modified by pretreatment with the 5-HT2 receptor antagonist ketanserin (0.5 mg kg-1), but was markedly reduced by pretreatment with methiothepin (1 mg kg-1), which blocks both the 5-HT1-like and 5-HT2 receptors. 5. It is concluded that the effects of 8-OH-DPAT on arteriovenous anastomotic blood flow are mediated by 5-HT1-like receptors. These receptors, however, cannot yet be classified as belonging to 5-HT1A receptor subtype. Since a number of antimigraine drugs reduce arteriovenous shunting, it is tempting to suggest that 8-OH-DPAT may have similar clinical efficacy. PMID- 2522334 TI - Impaired mitochondrial oxidative energy metabolism following paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity in the rat. AB - 1. Effects of paracetamol treatment in vivo at subtoxic (375 mg kg-1 body weight) and toxic (750 mg kg-1 body weight) doses on energy metabolism in rat liver mitochondria were examined. 2. Paracetamol treatment resulted in a significant loss in body weights without affecting the liver protein contents. Toxic doses, however, resulted in 21% decrease in the yield of mitochondrial proteins. 3. Subtoxic doses of paracetamol did not, in general, affect the respiratory parameters in the liver mitochondria except in the case of succinate where both the state 3 respiration and the ADP-phosphorylation rates increased by 28%. 4. Toxic doses of paracetamol caused 25 to 47% decrease in the state 3 respiration rates depending on the substrate used. ADP/O ratios also decreased significantly with pyruvate + malate and succinate as the substrates. Consequently, ADP phosphorylation was impaired significantly from 20 to 63%. 5. Subtoxic doses of paracetamol resulted in increased contents of cytochrome c + c1 while the toxic doses caused lowering of the cytochromes aa3 and b contents. 6. Glutamate and succinate dehydrogenase activities decreased in both the experimental groups while Mg2+-ATPase activity was impaired only after toxic dose-treatment. 7. The results show that toxic doses of paracetamol result in impaired energy coupling in the liver mitochondria. Effects of subtoxic doses were also demonstrable in terms of impaired dehydrogenases activities. PMID- 2522335 TI - Neuroanatomical sites of action of 5-HT3 receptor agonist and antagonists for alteration of aversive behaviour in the mouse. AB - 1. The cerebral topography of the action of diazepam and the action of the 5 hydroxytryptamine 5-HT3 receptor antagonists GR38032F and ICS 205-930 in attenuating an aversive response was studied in the mouse. 2. Mice which had been cannulated to allow drug injection into the dorsal and median raphe nuclei, the amygdala, nucleus accumbens or caudate-putamen were placed in a two compartment black (dimly illuminated) and white (brightly illuminated) test box. Measurements were made of the time spent, rearing and line crossings in the two sections and the latency of initial movement from the white to the black area. 3. The injection of diazepam (0.1-10 ng), GR38032F (0.01-1.0 ng) and ICS 205-930 (1.0-10 ng) into the dorsal raphe nucleus and amygdala, and the injection of diazepam (0.1-10 ng) into the median raphe nucleus, reduced an aversive response to the brightly illuminated white area, delaying the initial movement into the black section and increasing the time spent, rearings and line crossings in the white area. Concomitantly such activities were decreased in the black section. 4. The injection of the 5-HT3 agonist 2-methyl-5-hydroxytryptamine (0.1-10 ng) into the dorsal raphe nucleus and amygdala caused the opposite response, decreasing the time taken to move into the black section and increasing the time spent, rearings and line crossings in the black section, decreasing such activities in the white area. 5. The 5-HT3 agonist and antagonists showed little or no effect following injection into the median raphe nucleus and there were no changes in exploratory behaviour following their injection, or injection of diazepam, into the nucleus accumbens or caudate-putamen. 6. It is concluded that in the mouse the cerebral topography of action of GR38032F and ICS 205-930 in attenuating an aversive response follows that of diazepam in the dorsal raphe nucleus and amygdala but that diazepam may have additional effects mediated via the median raphe nucleus. PMID- 2522336 TI - Inhibitory effect of a selective thromboxane A2 receptor antagonist, EP 092, on platelet aggregation in whole blood ex vivo and in vivo. AB - 1. The inhibitory effect of a selective prostaglandin H2 (PGH2)/thromboxane A2 receptor antagonist, EP 092, on platelet aggregatory responses in whole blood ex vivo (guinea-pig: Rhesus monkey) and intravascular aggregation in vivo (rabbit) has been investigated. 2. Collagen (0.1-10.0 micrograms ml-1) caused a concentration-dependent decrease in single platelet count in samples of both guinea-pig and Rhesus monkey citrated whole blood incubated ex vivo. EP 092 administered to guinea-pigs by intravenous (0.1-3.0 mg kg-1) or oral (1.0-10.0 mg kg-1) routes significantly inhibited the platelet responses to collagen (ED50 values 1.3 +/- 0.2 and 1.4 +/- 0.2 mg kg-1 respectively). Similar potency against collagen-induced whole blood aggregation was observed in Rhesus monkey blood samples following EP 092 given orally (ED50 0.9 +/- 0.3 mg kg-1). 3. The duration of action of EP 092 against collagen aggregatory responses ex vivo in both guinea pigs and Rhesus monkeys was between 3 and 6 h following oral administration at 3.0 mg kg-1. 4. The inhibitory activity demonstrated by EP 092 against collagen induced aggregation of Rhesus monkey whole blood ex vivo was not accompanied by any significant reduction in thromboxane A2 formation except at the highest dose tested (10 mg kg-1). 5. The intravascular aggregatory response induced by collagen or thrombin in the anaesthetized rabbit was significantly inhibited by an intravenous infusion of EP 092 (10 mg kg-1). EP 092 appeared less potent and its effect was of shorter duration in this preparation compared with its inhibitory effect on ex vivo aggregation, being evident immediately after infusion of drug but not after a further 30 min. 6. It is concluded that collagen induced platelet aggregatory response in guinea-pig and Rhesus monkey whole blood ex vivo and rabbit in vivo exhibit a thromboxane-dependent component which can be inhibited in a dose-related fashion by pretreatment with the thromboxane antagonist EP 092. In the rabbit, moreover, the data support the possibility of a role for thromboxane in the intravascular aggregatory response to thrombin. PMID- 2522337 TI - Assessment of angioplasty balloon catheters: further studies. AB - Eight millimetre diameter angioplasty balloon catheters of both the Gruntzig and Olbert types from five manufacturers have been tested in vitro to establish bursting pressures and the changes in maximum and deflated diameters following repeated inflations, both when free and within a restraining sleeve. Maximum inflated diameters were within 10% of that stated and all types of balloon except one burst at a pressure greater than the recommended value. Deflated diameters were approximately 1 mm greater than insertion diameters, which are much smaller in the Olbert type. All balloons became a little larger with each of the first few distensions, and became stiffer. The maximum diameter was reached and remained constant after 10-15 distensions. Distension within a latex sleeve did not change bursting pressures, and it is considered that results from unconstrained testing can be extrapolated to behaviour in vivo. Computer modelling and calculation of maximum stress resultants also showed that calculated longitudinal and circumferential stresses are unaffected by applied restrictions. It is concluded that balloon technology is steadily improving and it is suggested that British Standards should be established for dilatation balloon catheters. Amongst other factors these Standards should include maximum recommended inflation pressures that are at least 2 atm less than bursting pressures, whilst the stated maximum diameter should be for fully extended balloons, and should have a tolerance of more than +/- 10%. PMID- 2522338 TI - Alteration of cardiac myosin isozymes after whole-body irradiation. PMID- 2522339 TI - Vasopressin reduces release from vasopressin-neurons and oxytocin-neurons by acting on V2-like receptors. AB - The effects of arginine vasopressin (AVP), and of the V2-AVP receptor agonist 1 deamino[8-D-arginine] vasopressin (DDAVP) on release from the vasopressin-neurons and oxytocin-neurons of Long-Evans rats were evaluated using specific radioimmunoassays for rat neurophysins. AVP (1 microgram, 1 nmol) or DDAVP (25 ng, 25 pmol) was administered i.p. to animals 1 h before they received an i.v. infusion of 18% saline at 10 microliters/100 g b. wt./min for 60 min. Both AVP and DDAVP decreased the responsiveness (slope) but not the sensitivity threshold of vasopressin-neurons to acute changes in plasma osmolality. Since the amounts of the peptides giving comparable decreases in responsiveness were directly related to their antidiuretic potencies, it is most probable that this influence is mediated through V2-like receptors. However, while ruling out a significant contribution of V1-type receptors, the data do not exclude involvement of other vasopressin receptors (e.g. V3-type receptors). Both AVP and DDAVP also appeared to have an inhibitory effect on release from oxytocin-neurons, but in this case they significantly altered sensitivity threshold but not responsiveness to acute changes in plasma osmolality. Because AVP produced a shift in sensitivity threshold larger than that by DDAVP when the peptides were used in amounts related to their antidiuretic potencies, our results suggest that the feedback influence of AVP on oxytocin-neurons is largely, although not entirely, exercised through V2-like receptors. PMID- 2522340 TI - Cerebral mitochondrial respiration in diabetic and chronically hypoglycemic rats. AB - The respiratory function of cerebral mitochondria harvested from genetically diabetic (BB/W) and streptozotocin-diabetic rats deprived of insulin for 3-4 weeks was found to be unchanged from control values. Furthermore, insulin deprived BB/W rats subjected to 30 min of insulin-induced hypoglycemic coma demonstrated a normal mitochondrial respiration following a 60 min period of glucose restitution, a finding consistent with earlier results in non-diabetic rats. However, in rats exposed to 1 week of moderate hypoglycemia (plasma glucose = 3.0 mumol.ml-1), both state 3 respiration and the respiratory control ratio (RCR) were reduced from control. In fact, when the chronic hypoglycemia was imposed following a 3-4 week period of diabetic hyperglycemia, the state 3 rate and RCR were found to be reduced to a greater degree than in chronically hypoglycemic, non-diabetic, previously normoglycemic rats. Finally, when 1 week of moderate hypoglycemia preceded a 30 min period of insulin-induced hypoglycemic coma, a disturbed pattern of mitochondrial respiration (i.e. increased state 4, decreased RCR) was found at 60 min of recovery following coma. These results indicate that chronic increases in glucose (and insulin deprivation) have no effect on cerebral mitochondrial respiratory function, whereas prolonged, albeit moderate, reductions in cerebral glucose supply result in perturbations in mitochondrial respiration. These results demonstrate the importance of an adequate glucose supply for normal mitochondrial activity. PMID- 2522341 TI - Decrease in a proenkephalin peptide in cerebrospinal fluid in Huntington's disease and progressive supranuclear palsy. AB - The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) content of Met5-enkephalin-Arg-Gly-Leu immunoreactivity was found to be significantly decreased in patients with Huntington's disease and progressive supranuclear palsy. This peptide is derived from the proenkephalin precursor protein and normally is found in high concentrations in the basal ganglia. The decrease in CSF from Huntington's disease patients likely reflects the loss of proenkephalin-containing neurons seen in postmortem analyses of basal ganglia tissue. The decrease in progressive supranuclear palsy, a disease in which dopamine neurons degenerate but enkephalin levels in the basal ganglia are reportedly not decreased, may reflect a functional decline in enkephalinergic neuronal activity secondary to a striatal cholinergic deficit. The results suggest that a substantial portion of the CSF Met5-enkephalin-Arg-Gly-Leu immunoreactivity is derived from the basal ganglia and that CSF levels of this peptide can serve as an index of functional or anatomical integrity of proenkephalin synthesizing neurons in the basal ganglia. PMID- 2522342 TI - Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of stenosis at the common iliac artery origin using a single-balloon technique. AB - The "kissing balloon" technique has been recommended for percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of common iliac stenoses located at or near the aortic bifurcation, because of the theoretical risk of contralateral embolization or stenosis if a single balloon is used. A single-balloon technique was used to dilate 20 atherosclerotic stenoses at this site in 19 patients. Technical success was achieved in 18. No complications occurred. Follow-up studies at intervals ranging from three to 51 months showed a patency rate similar to that achieved with the kissing balloon method. We believe that the use of kissing balloons is unnecessary since single-balloon angioplasty is safe and effective. PMID- 2522343 TI - [Effects of anesthesia induction with propofol on plasma renin activity and atrial natriuretic factor secretion. A preliminary study]. AB - The authors have noted a substantial increase in plasma renin activity, when the patients were induced with propofol (2.5 mg.kg-1). Although a direct or an indirect effect of propofol may be suggested, the design of this study is not helpful in pointing out the responsibility of the drug in the observed effects. Further studies including peripheral vascular resistance measurements should be undertaken. PMID- 2522344 TI - Cyclophosphamide-induced immunologically mediated regression of a cyclophosphamide-resistant murine tumor: a consequence of eliminating precursor L3T4+ suppressor T-cells. AB - It was shown that it is possible to use cyclophosphamide (Cy) to cause immunologically mediated regression of the immunogenic, Cy-resistant L5178Y lymphoma in syngeneic and semisyngeneic mice. In order to cause tumor regression it was necessary to give Cy shortly before or shortly after tumor implantation. However, regardless of whether Cy was given before or after tumor implantation, tumor regression did not commence until 10 days of progressive tumor growth, by which time the tumor was 1 cm in diameter. Tumor regression was associated with the presence in the spleen of an increased number of Lyt-2+ T-cells capable of passively transferring immunity to tumor-bearing recipients. This augmented level of immunity was sustained throughout the period of tumor regression. In contrast, a lower level of concomitant immunity generated by control tumor bearers decayed after Day 12 of tumor growth. Because the therapeutic effect of Cy could be inhibited by passive transfer of L3T4+ T-cells from normal donor mice it is apparent that the therapeutic effect of Cy is based on its ability to preferentially destroy L3T4+ suppressor T-cells. These putative precursor suppressor T-cells were regenerated 4 days after being destroyed by Cy. Taken together the results represent a striking example of the negative regulatory influence of suppressor T-cells on the immune response to an immunogenic tumor. PMID- 2522346 TI - In vitro photodynamic therapy of human lung cancer: investigation of dose-rate effects. AB - The influence of light dose-rate delivery was studied in human lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells treated with hematoporphyrin derivative (Photofrin II) based photodynamic therapy. Clonogenic cell survival curves were generated for cells treated for 2 h with 25 micrograms/ml of Photofrin II followed by exposure to light delivered at 0.3, 0.15, 0.075, or 0.0375 milliwatts/cm2. Cellular sensitizer levels, as determined by fluorescence measurements, remained constant over the entire time course of all light exposures. As the dose rate of light delivery was decreased, a significant increase in cell survival was observed at equal light energies (225 mJ/cm2). The enhancement in survival from the highest to the lowest dose rate used was 1.6-fold (at the 50% survival level). These findings may have important clinical implications relating to photodynamic therapy of tumors and may provide a partial explanation for treatment failure. PMID- 2522345 TI - Role of lipid peroxidation in hematoporphyrin derivative-sensitized photokilling of tumor cells: protective effects of glutathione peroxidase. AB - The ability of cells to detoxify lipid hydroperoxides (LOOHs) generated by hematoporphyrin derivative (HPD)-sensitized photooxidation was investigated for the first time. The general importance of glutathione in cytoprotection was confirmed by showing that murine L1210 cells were more sensitive to the lethal effects of HPD plus red light after being treated with buthionine sulfoximine. The specific role of Se-dependent glutathione peroxidase was investigated by using L1210 cells that were grown in Se-deficient media. Glutathione peroxidase activity of such cells was typically less than 5% of that exhibited by Se-replete cells. When examined by means of dye exclusion or clonogenic assay, Se-deficient cells were dramatically more sensitive to HPD-mediated photokilling than normal counterparts. Impaired metabolism of hydrogen peroxide was ruled out as a possible cause of enhanced photokilling, since added catalase had no protective effect on Se-deficient cells. Iodometric analysis of lipid extracts from photooxidized cells indicated a significantly greater rate of LOOH accumulation as a result of Se depletion. Moreover, when depleted cells were incubated in the dark after a short period of photo-peroxidation, LOOH decay was markedly slower than in controls. Similar results were obtained with human CaSki cells derived from cervical carcinoma. It is apparent from these results that lipid peroxidation plays an important role in tumor cell eradication by HPD/phototherapy, and that glutathione peroxidase serves as a natural protectant against photokilling by catalyzing the reduction of LOOHs. PMID- 2522347 TI - Antiestrogenic action of toremifene on hormone-dependent, -independent, and heterogeneous breast tumor growth in the athymic mouse. AB - The antiestrogen toremifene has been used to study the growth control of hormone dependent (MCF-7), -independent (MDA-MB-231), or mixed tumor cell populations in athymic mice. Maximal MCF-7 tumor growth was produced in ovariectomized athymic mice by circulating estradiol levels of approximately 200 pg/ml (produced by 0.5 cm silastic capsules implanted s.c.). The antiestrogen toremifene (77 +/- 4 micrograms/day from a 2-cm silastic capsule) inhibited estradiol (0.5-cm capsule) stimulated growth by more than 70%. No tumor growth was observed in mice treated with toremifene alone, although toremifene acted as a weak partial agonist on the mouse uterus. The growth of hormone-independent MDA-MB-231 breast tumors implanted in athymic mice was not influenced by either estradiol (0.5-cm capsule) or toremifene (2-cm capsule) when administered alone or in combination. Furthermore, even very large doses of toremifene (5 mg/day p.o.) did not alter the rate of MDA-MB-231 tumor growth. Mixtures of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells in 9:1 and 99:1 ratios inoculated into athymic mice produced tumors which grew in the absence of estradiol but responded to estradiol supplementation (0.5-cm capsule) with a more rapid rate of tumor growth. Tumors grown from inoculated MCF 7:MDA-MB-231 cells (99:1 ratio) in the presence of estradiol had estrogen receptor levels of 33.2 +/- 9.2 fmol/mg of protein at Day 44 compared to 84.8 +/- 4.8 fmol/mg of protein in pure MCF-7 tumors. Toremifene (2-cm capsule) treatment inhibited the estrogen stimulation of these mixed tumors (99:1 starting ratio) to that of toremifene alone. However, toremifene-alone treatment produced a more rapid rate of tumor growth than control or tumors grown from irradiated MCF-7 cells mixed with viable MDA-MB-231 cells. Increasing the ratio of MCF-7:MDA-MB 231 cells (999:1) initially inoculated resulted in tumors which developed less rapidly than the lower ratio (99:1). Toremifene (2-cm capsule) again produced partial inhibition of 17 beta-estradiol-stimulated tumor growth while increasing tumor growth above control when the antiestrogen was administered alone. These results demonstrate that toremifene is effective in inhibiting estrogen stimulation of hormone-dependent tumors and partially successful at controlling mixed hormone-dependent/independent tumors; however, the antiestrogen cannot control the growth of a hormone-independent tumor in this model. PMID- 2522348 TI - Tumor cell invasion of three-dimensional matrices of defined composition: evidence for a specific role for heparan sulfate in rodent cell lines. AB - The abilities of rodent tumor cell lines; B16BL6, ND and LT dietary variants of B16BL6, +SA, RT7-4bs and RT7-4bLs to invade composite collagen I gels containing heparin, chemically modified heparins, heparan sulfate, chondroitin sulfate, hyaluronic acid, dextran, dextran sulfate, laminin and collagen IV were investigated, and compared to the invasion of plain collagen I gels. The presence of heparin or heparan sulfate most generally promoted tumor cell invasion of the gels, with more aggressive invasion being noted for the more metastatic variants examined. Of the chemically modified heparins tested, carboxyl-reduced heparin promoted matrix invasion by B16BL6 and +SA cells to the greatest degree. Hyaluronic acid marginally promoted invasion by +SA and RT7-4bs primary cells while, in these collagen I based gels laminin only promoted matrix invasion by primary +SA cells to a very limited degree. The tumor cell lines attached relatively poorly to heparan sulfate substrates compared to the other glycosaminoglycans tested, and the primary tumor cell lines also attached relatively poorly to collagen I. As expected, highly metastatic variants showed greater attachment to laminin than did their less metastatic counterparts. Apart from the negative correlation of cellular attachment to heparan sulfate substrates with invasiveness towards heparan sulfate containing gels, no other relationships emerged linking attachment rates with invasive activities for particular complex gel compositions. Our results suggest an important role for heparan sulfate, and possibly also tissue heparin, in promoting tumor cell invasion of extracellular matrices. Results from complex gels containing dextran or dextran sulfate failed to support the hypothesis that GAG sulfation is important to cellular invasion. The activity of the chemically modified heparins in promoting invasion, when present as components of these model matrices, suggests that part of the anti-metastatic activity of these compounds, when preincubated with tumor cells prior to intravenous inoculation, could result from interference with tumor cell extravasation. PMID- 2522349 TI - Lymphokine-activated suppressor (LAS) cells in patients with gastric carcinoma. AB - T-cell-growth-factor (TCGF) activate peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL), cultured for 14 days, showed killer cell activities against natural-killer resistant Daudi cells in a 4 h 51Cr-release assay. However, the effector cells obtained from patients with nonresectable carcinoma exhibited very much lower cytotoxicity to tumor cells. To analyze the mechanism of depression, we have attempted to examine suppressor cell activities of the TCGF-activated PBL. The assay for the suppressor cell activities was made by in vitro inhibition of cell-mediated cytotoxicity by incubating radiolabeled target tumor cells with lymphokine activated killer (LAK) cells and TCGF-activated PBL. LAK cells were induced by cultivation with recombinant interleukin-2. TCGF-activated PBL, obtained from four out of ten patients with resectable carcinoma and nine out of ten patients with nonresectable carcinoma, significantly suppressed the LAK cell activities. However, this suppression was not observed in TCGF-activated PBL from ten normal healthy control subjects. TCGF-activated PBL with immunosuppressive reactivity were named lymphokine-activated suppressor (LAS) cells. To investigate the phenotypic characterization of TCGF-activated PBL, the cells were analyzed by two color flow cytometry. TCGF preferentially expanded CD8+CD11- cells and decreased the growth of CD8+CD11+ cells in both normal healthy control subjects and gastric cancer (resectable and nonresectable) patients. Dominantly expressed CD8+CD11- cells on TCGF-activated PBL in patients--especially those with nonresectable gastric carcinoma--showed strong LAS cell activity, irrespective of the presence of killer cell activities of CD8+CD11- cells in TCGF-activated PBL from normal healthy control subjects. The results suggested the generation of CD8+CD11- LAS cells from cancer patients, and revealed that CD8+CD11- T-cells contained killer and/or suppressor cell function. In addition, it was found that the TCGF activated PBL from gastric cancer patients were associated with an increased proportion of CD4+ Leu8+, HLA-DR+CD8+ and HLA-DR+CD25+ cells. PMID- 2522350 TI - Head and tail. PMID- 2522351 TI - Submolecular domains of bovine brain kinesin identified by electron microscopy and monoclonal antibody decoration. AB - Kinesin is a microtubule-activated ATPase thought to transport membrane-bounded organelles along MTs. To illuminate the structural basis for this function, EM was used to locate submolecular domains on bovine brain kinesin. Rotary shadowed kinesin appeared rod-shaped and approximately 80 nm long. One end of each molecule contained a pair of approximately 10 x 9 nm globular domains, while the opposite end was fan-shaped. Monoclonal antibodies against the approximately 124 kd heavy chains of kinesin decorated the globular structures, while those specific for the approximately 64 kd light chains labeled the fan-shaped end. Quick-freeze, deep-etch EM was used to analyze MTs polymerized from tubulin and cross-linked to latex microspheres by kinesin. Microspheres frequently attached to MTs by arm-like structures, 25-30 nm long. The MT attachment sites often appeared as one or two approximately 10 nm globular bulges. Morphologically similar cross-links were observed by quick-freeze, deep-etch EM between organelles and MTs in the neuronal cytoskeleton in vivo. These collective observations suggest that bovine brain kinesin binds to MTs by globular domains that contain the heavy chains, and that the attachment sites for organelles are at the opposite, fan-shaped end of kinesin, where the light chains are located. PMID- 2522352 TI - A three-domain structure of kinesin heavy chain revealed by DNA sequence and microtubule binding analyses. AB - The structure and function of kinesin heavy chain from D. melanogaster have been studied using DNA sequence analysis and analysis of the properties of truncated kinesin heavy chain synthesized in vitro. Analysis of the sequence suggests the existence of a 50 kd globular amino-terminal domain that contains an ATP binding consensus sequence, followed by another 50-60 kd domain that has sequence characteristics consistent with the ability to fold into an alpha helical coiled coil. The properties of amino- and carboxy-terminally truncated kinesin heavy chains synthesized in vitro reveal that a 60 kd amino-terminal fragment has the nucleotide-dependent microtubule binding activities of the intact kinesin heavy chain, and hence is likely to be a "motor" domain. Finally, the sequence data indicate the presence of a small carboxy-terminal domain. Because it is located at the end of the molecule away from the putative "motor" domain, we propose that this domain is responsible for interactions with other proteins, vesicles, or organelles. These data suggest that kinesin has an organization very similar to that of myosin even though there are no obvious sequence similarities between the two molecules. PMID- 2522353 TI - Cytoplasmic dynein is a minus end-directed motor for membranous organelles. AB - The role of cytoplasmic dynein in microtubule-based organelle transport was examined using a reconstituted assay developed from chick embryo fibroblasts. Factors present in a high-speed cytosol caused the movement of purified organelles on microtubules predominantly in the minus end direction. Inactivation of cytoplasmic dynein in the high-speed cytosol by vanadate-mediated UV photocleavage inhibited minus end-directed organelle motility by over 90%. Addition of purified cytoplasmic dynein to the inactive cytosol restored minus end-directed organelle motility, although purified cytoplasmic dynein by itself did not support organelle movement. We propose that cytoplasmic dynein is the motor for minus end-directed organelle movement, but that additional cytosolic factors are also required to produce organelle motility. PMID- 2522354 TI - [Chromosome aberrations in a group of mentally retarded persons]. AB - Mental retardation (MR) is a frequent manifestation in patients referred to departments of medical genetics (OLG). At the OLG in Martin their number in the years 1981-1985 was 324, i.e. 21.22% of the total number of examined subjects. MR was found as one of the pathological symptoms (symptomatic MR) in 86.73% and as the only pathological manifestation (isolated MR) in 13.27%. Genetic factors were revealed in 59%, exogenous ones in 19%, and in 22% the aetiology was not unequivocally resolved. As to genetic factors, the most frequent cause were chromosomal aberrations (in 104 patients-53%), a monogenic character was found in 68 subjects (35%) and a multifactorial one in 24 (12%). As to chromosomal aberrations, in 102 cases autosomes were affected (91 times numerical and 11 times structural affection), in four subjects a numerical anomaly of genosomes was involved and once a combined aberration of an autosomal and gonosomal character. The authors give the character and number of different types of aberrations and the incidence of so-called chromosomal markers (12 cases) and they evaluate their causal relationship with MR. Further advances in the aetiological evaluation of genetic factors will be made possible by the introduction of strip methods with a high resolution technique (use of prophasic chromosomes), combined with hybridization in situ, cytogenetic methods for the detection of individuals with the fragile X-chromosome syndrome, and in particular the application of the technology of recombinant DNA for the diagnosis of clinical and genetic units at the gene level. PMID- 2522355 TI - Exacerbation of toxic effects by endotoxin contamination of recombinant human tumor necrosis factor. AB - The toxic effects of endotoxin-free human recombinant tumor necrosis factor (rH TNF), shown to contain less than 50 pg endotoxin/mg rH-TNF, were investigated and compared with those of rH-TNF and endotoxin coadministered at 4-400 ng endotoxin/mg rH-TNF in female Sprague-Dawley rats. The mean lethal dose of 5.9 mg/kg rH-TNF found for the endotoxin-free rH-TNF was far higher than that attributed to rH-TNF by other investigators. Coadministration with endotoxin derived from E. Coli. Salmonella abortus equi, or Serratia marcescens reduced the apparent mean lethal dose of rH-TNF in correspondence to the endotoxin concentration, with a value of 0.7 mg/kg rH-TNF observed at 1600 ng, 757 ng, and 5260 ng endotoxin/mg rH-TNF, respectively. Coadministration also resulted in more severe histopathologic and physicochemical effects than rH-TNF alone. Histopathologic abnormalities observed only in coadministration included interlobular edema and hemorrhage of the pancreas and, most remarkably, splenomegaly, which was not observed with rH-TNF alone even at lethal doses. The results indicate that particular care in determining endotoxin contamination is essential in any consideration of TNF toxicity. PMID- 2522356 TI - Left ventricular myocardial structure in aortic valve disease before, intermediate, and late after aortic valve replacement. AB - Left ventricular biplane cineangiography, micromanometry, and endomyocardial biopsies were performed in 27 patients with aortic stenosis (AS) and in 17 patients with aortic insufficiency (AI). Twenty-three patients with AS and 15 with AI were restudied at an intermediate time (18 months after successful valve replacement), and nine patients with AS and six with AI were restudied late (70 and 62 months after surgery). Biopsy samples were evaluated for muscle fiber diameter, percent interstitial fibrosis, and volume fraction of myofibrils. In control biopsy samples obtained from five donor hearts at transplantation, these morphometric variables averaged 21.2 microns, 7.0%, and 57.2%, respectively. After surgery, mass determined by cineangiography decreased from 186 to 115 and 94 g/m2 in patients with AS and from 201 to 131 and 93 g/m2 in patients with AI. At the three studies, muscle fiber diameter was 30.9, 28.0, and 28.7 microns in patients with AS and was 31.4, 27.6, and 26.4 microns in patients with AI. Percent interstitial fibrosis was 18.2, 25.8, and 13.7% in patients with AS and was 20.4, 23.7, and 19.2% in patients with AI. Left ventricular fibrous content decreased from 34.2 to 29.8 and to 12.7 g/m2 in patients with AS and from 42.1 to 28.9 and to 18.9 g/m2 in patients with AI. Volume fraction of myofibrils was 57.7, 56.8, and 49.0% in patients with AS and was 56.8, 56.6 and 48.8% in patients with AI. Thus, the decrease of muscle mass determined by cineangiography at the intermediate time after valve replacement is mediated by regression of myocardial cellular hypertrophy in patients with AS and AI and in addition by a decrease of fibrous content in patients with AI. Late after surgery, left ventricular fibrous content also decreases in patients with AS. This late decrease associated with minor changes of end-diastolic volume may be important for improvement of increased diastolic myocardial stiffness. Even 6-7 years after valve replacement, incomplete regression of structural abnormalities of left ventricular hypertrophy still exists compared with the normal myocardium. The residually increased relative interstitial fibrosis and the small late postoperative decrease of volume fraction of myofibrils, associated with a prosthesis-related slight left ventricular pressure increase, are at the origin of a persistent systolic overload at the myofibrillar level. PMID- 2522357 TI - Stress-shortening relations and myocardial blood flow in compensated and failing canine hearts with pressure-overload hypertrophy. AB - Serial changes in left ventricular (LV) size and function during the adaptation to chronic pressure overload and the transition to pump failure were studied in 16 conscious dogs (aortic bands placed at 8 weeks of age). Echocardiographic data at baseline and at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after banding revealed a progressive increase in LV mass in all dogs. In six dogs with LV pump failure, there was a progressive decline in circumferential fiber shortening (29 +/- 4% at 12 months); this was significantly less than that seen in five littermate controls (38 +/- 3%, p less than 0.05). The average LV to body weight ratio in this group was 9.8 +/- 2.7 g/kg. In 10 dogs without pump failure (compensated LVH group), shortening exceeded that seen in the controls (43 +/- 4%, p less than 0.05); the LV to body weight ratio was 7.7 +/- 1.0 g/kg. At 12 months (cardiac catheterization), the LV end-diastolic pressure was higher in the failure (25 +/- 15 mm Hg) than in the compensated group (8 +/- 5 mm Hg, p less than 0.05); mean systolic stress was also higher in the failure group (313 +/- 67 g/cm2) than in the compensated group (202 +/- 53 g/cm2, p less than 0.05). The transmural distribution of myocardial blood flow was measured (at 12 months) with the radioactive microsphere technique; flow data were then related to an index of demand (a stress-time index). There was preferential blood flow to the subendocardial layers in the control (endo/epi = 1.28) and compensated hearts (endo/epi = 1.10), but in the failure group there was a relative decrease in subendocardial flow (endo/epi = 0.92). However, the absolute values for subendocardial flow in the normal, compensated, and failure groups were 77 +/- 54, 125 +/- 48, and 113 +/- 64 ml/min/100 g; the stress-time indexes in the subendocardial shell were 38 +/- 11, 74 +/- 19, and 93 +/- 34 g sec.10(2)/cm2/min. Despite what appears to be a marginal balance between blood flow and the stress time index in the failure group, the myocardial high energy phosphates were not depleted and the inoptropic state was not depressed. In this model of LV hypertrophy, the observed differences in fiber shortening can be explained on the basis of the inverse afterload-shortening relation; pump failure was due to an inadequate LV hypertrophy with afterload excess.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2522359 TI - Left ventricular structure and function in aortic valve disease. PMID- 2522358 TI - Endothelium-dependent arterial vasoconstriction after balloon angioplasty. AB - To determine whether balloon angioplasty can provoke arterial vasoconstriction independent of platelet aggregation and neurogenic input, we studied the spontaneous vasomotor effects of balloon dilatation in isolated, perfused whole vessel segments of rabbit aorta and pig carotid artery. Freshly dissected rabbit thoracic aortas were mounted in a muscle bath-perfusion chamber, perfused with physiologic saline solution at 70 mm Hg, and allowed to equilibrate. The proximal or distal half of the aortas were dilated with either a "large" (5 mm, 31-51% stretch beyond relaxed diameter) or a "small" (4 mm, 5-16% stretch) balloon angioplasty catheter with the other half of the vessel serving as the control. A similar series of experiments were performed in pig carotid arteries using "large" (6 or 8 mm, 48-90% stretch) balloon catheters. The spontaneous vasomotor effects of balloon angioplasty were examined with long-axis, high-frequency ultrasonic imaging combined with computerized edge detection image processing to measure changes in segmental internal vessel diameters. Additional experiments were carried out in rabbit aortas to determine the roles of the endothelium, extracellular calcium, indomethacin, ibuprofen, and calcium-channel blockade in modulating angioplasty-induced vasoconstriction. Significant arterial vasoconstriction was observed in the balloon angioplasty segments after dilatation with 5-mm balloons but not with 4-mm balloons. After dilatation with 5 mm balloons, the angioplasty segments' cross-sectional areas decreased by an average of 31% versus 4% for the nondilated (control) segments (p less than 0.0001). Similar postangioplasty vasoconstriction was observed in the pig carotid arteries (decrease in minimal vessel cross-sectional area of 41% [angioplasty segment] versus 2% [control segment]) (p less than 0.005). This angioplasty induced vasoconstriction was prevented by endothelial denudation before angioplasty, removal of extracellular calcium, and pretreatment with indomethacin or ibuprofen. The vasoconstriction was only partially inhibited by calcium channel blockade with verapamil. These findings demonstrate that stretch-pressure induced arterial vasoconstriction may occur after balloon angioplasty, independent of platelet aggregation and neurogenic input. This angioplasty induced vasoconstriction appears to be mediated by an endothelially derived cyclooxygenase product(s). PMID- 2522360 TI - The motivation of at-risk individuals and their partners in deciding for or against predictive testing for Huntington's disease. AB - Sixty-six percent of the at-risk persons and 74% of the partners in a large survey in Belgium have the intention of making use of predictive testing for Huntington's disease. One third of them, however, have expressed the intention of postponing the final decision for various reasons. The intention to be tested is not at all related to sociodemographic characteristics. A thorough exploration of the reasons for being in favour of or against taking the test reveals that the motivation inspiring this very personal decision is very complex. In the group of at-risk persons, less than half of the variation in the intention to be tested is explained by the role of a series of specific reasons as predictor variables in a regression analysis. The proportion of explained variation is slightly higher in the group of partners. 'To have certainty about my own future' and 'to make arrangements for the future' play a major part in the decision of the total group. 'Making decisions concerning children' and to a larger extent 'informing children about their risk status' are important factors in deciding in favour of the test. PMID- 2522361 TI - Ultraviolet-induced suppressor T cells and factor(s) in murine contact photosensitivity. II. Igh-V restriction of T-cell-suppressor factor. AB - In murine contact photosensitivity (CPS) to 3,3',4',5-tetrachlorosalicylanilide, we have reported that antigen-specific suppressor T cells and factor(s) (TsF) are induced by preexposure of the photosensitizing site to low doses of ultraviolet B. The TsF is a single-chain factor bearing both antigen-binding site(s) and I-J determinants. In this report, we examined the genetic restriction of the factor in terms of both H-2 and Igh-associated genes. The CPS responses of BALB/c (H-2d, Igh-VaCa) and BALB.B (H-2b, Igh-VaCa) but not DBA/2 (H-2d, Igh-VcCc) were suppressed by the injection of the BALB/c TsF, and reciprocally, the response of BALB/c was suppressed by the BALB.B TsF. This demonstrated that H-2 identity was not a requirement for TsF function. Furthermore, the BALB/c TsF significantly suppressed the CPS reaction in BAB-14 (H-2d, Igh-VaCb) but not in either C.B-20 (H-2d, Igh-VbCb) or C.AL-20 (H-2d, Igh-VdCd). In addition, the BAB-14 TsF, but not the C.B-20 factor, induced suppression in BALB/c mice. These results indicated that identity at the Igh-V locus of the strain producing the factor and the recipient was required for suppression. Because of the single-chain nature of the factor, it seems that the I-J+ molecule present in our TsF is closely related to not only recognition but also Igh-V restriction functions. PMID- 2522362 TI - Predictors of left ventricular hypertrophy in patients with essential hypertension. AB - The purpose of this study was to assess clinical variables which might be predictive of echocardiographic left ventricular hypertrophy in mildly hypertensive patients. Eighteen patients (mean age 51) were studied following four weeks of hydrochlorothiazide monotherapy. Variables assessed included age, duration of hypertension, body surface area, serum cholesterol, alcohol consumption, smoking, maximum systolic and mean blood pressures, and variability of blood pressure determined from hourly measurements taken 12 hours after hydrochlorothiazide dosing. Using stepwise multiple linear regression (with left ventricular mass index analyzed as a continuous variable), the variability of blood pressure was predictive of an elevated left ventricular mass index (p less than 0.0003, r2 = 0.61). The duration of hypertension added significantly to the variability in predicting an elevated left ventricular mass index (p less than 0.004, multiple r = 0.74). In conclusion, echocardiographic left ventricular hypertrophy was significantly related to the variability of blood pressure recorded hourly for 12 h after subjects received 50 mg of hydrochlorothiazide. PMID- 2522363 TI - Percutaneous atherectomy--early experience in Sheffield. AB - Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) of arterial stenoses is a well established and relatively safe technique in the treatment of peripheral and coronary vascular disease. Recurrence, however, remains a problem. The 'atherectomy' catheter is a new device to provide lumen enlargement by the mechanical removal of atheroma. In Sheffield, 14 lesions in the femoral arteries have been treated by atherectomy, with a reduction in mean diameter stenosis from 88% to 15%. There were no complications. Follow-up ranges from 3 to 15 months, with a mean of 9 months. There has been only one recurrence. It can be used in calcified lesions and may prove to be most useful in the treatment of tough lesions. Further experience and follow-up is necessary, however, to determine whether it has any advantage over balloon dilatation. PMID- 2522364 TI - Effects of hypoxia and hypercapnia on atrial natriuretic factor and plasma renin activity in conscious dogs. AB - 1. The aim of the present study was to assess the effects of hypercapnia or hypoxia on plasma concentrations of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) in conscious unrestrained dogs. 2. For this purpose, chronically instrumented dogs were exposed in a random order to either room air, or to an atmosphere containing 21% O2/10% CO2/69% N2 to produce hypercapnia, or 10% O2/3% CO2/87% N2 to produce hypoxia without respiratory alkalosis. 3. Plasma concentrations of ANF did not change significantly during hypoxia. 4. In contrast, during hypercapnia, plasma concentrations of ANF increased by more than 100% and returned to baseline at the end of hypercapnia. 5. Hypercapnia, but not hypoxia, induced an increase in left atrial and central venous pressures. 6. We conclude that hypercapnia increases plasma ANF concentration, and that this increase may be secondary to an increase of the left and right atrial pressures. These phenomena may explain the increase in diuresis and natriuresis which has been described during hypercapnia. PMID- 2522365 TI - Multi-organ damage resulting from experimental faecal peritonitis. AB - 1. Using specific-pathogen-free New Zealand White rabbits, we have compared the effects of faecal peritonitis over a period of 5 h in eight test animals with eight controls in which a sham operation was performed. 2. There was morphological damage to lungs, liver and spleen of test animals. Lung capillaries and sinusoids of the liver showed occlusion by cell debris and leucocytes, with endothelial damage. The lungs also showed alveolar epithelial disruption, basement membrane exposure and type II pneumocytes lacking lamellar bodies. In the liver there was fibrin deposition and swollen Kupffer cells. The spleen showed degranulating neutrophils, fibrin deposits, platelet aggregates and activated macrophages, with no damage to the endothelium. 3. There was no morphological damage to the kidney or heart of test animals or to any organs of sham-operated animals. 4. There were mixed anaerobes and aerobes in faecal material used to induce peritonitis. Cultures of liver, spleen and kidney isolated four different types of micro-organisms. Blood cultures showed two types of micro-organisms. Cultures of lung and heart showed one type of micro-organism. 5. The presence of micro-organisms in an organ could not be correlated with the degree of histological damage to that organ. 6. In test animals an early significant reduction in circulating leucocytes and platelets was sustained for the duration of the experiment with significant diffuse intravascular coagulation. 7. There was no change in test animal neutrophil adhesiveness until 120 min, when significant reduction was observed. 8. Serum phospholipase A2 (EC 3.1.1.4) activity in the test group showed a threefold increase at 300 min. PMID- 2522366 TI - Towards the ultimate outcome. PMID- 2522367 TI - Glycosylated haemoglobin in clarification of the origin of hyperglycaemia in acute cerebrovascular accident. AB - In 148 patients admitted to hospital with acute cerebrovascular accidents (CVA), the levels of glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and blood glucose were measured to evaluate the effect of the duration and severity of hyperglycaemia on stroke outcome. Eighty-eight (59%) patients had clearly normal blood glucose and HbA1c concentrations (blood glucose less than 5.5 mmol l-1, HbA1c less than 8.6%). The remaining 60 patients were defined as hyperglycaemic. Nineteen (13%) had known diabetes, whereas in 23 (16%) hyperglycaemia was probably due to unrecognized diabetes. In 18 (12%) patients transient hyperglycaemia was observed. Recovery after CVA was best among normoglycaemic patients (good 45%, moderate 29%, poor 14%, fatal 12%) and poorest among diabetic patients (moderate 21%, poor 37%, fatal 42%). Fatal outcome in patients from the normoglycaemic group differed significantly from patients belonging to known diabetic and unrecognized diabetic groups (p less than 0.05), but was not different from that in patients with transient hyperglycaemia, who did however differ from both diagnosed and unrecognized diabetic patients (p less than 0.05). No significant differences were found between CVA outcome in the known diabetic and unrecognized diabetic groups. PMID- 2522368 TI - Employment and diabetes: a survey of the prevalence of diabetic workers known by occupational physicians, and the restrictions placed on diabetic workers in employment. AB - A postal survey of occupational physicians identified a prevalence of known diabetes among workers of 7.5 per 1000. The prevalence of insulin-treated diabetes was 2.6 per 1000 and of other diabetes was 4.9 per 1000. The figure for insulin-treated diabetes is lower than expected from population studies. The restrictions placed on diabetic workers in employment include shift-work, heights, dangerous areas, driving, civil aviation, emergency teams, offshore oil work, and work overseas. Certain companies within the chemical, oil, steel, confectionery, and drinks industries had lower than expected numbers of diabetic workers and merit further detailed study. PMID- 2522369 TI - Diabetic autonomic neuropathy: the prevalence of impaired heart rate variability in a geographically defined population. AB - The prevalence of diabetic autonomic neuropathy and its relationship with other diabetic complications were studied in a geographically defined population. Heart rate variability was measured by a computerized technique at rest and in response to both a single deep breath and a Valsalva manoeuvre. Among 43 Type 1 (insulin dependent) and 202 Type 2 (non-insulin-dependent) patients results below the 2.5 centile for age-related normal ranges occurred in 9 Type 1 and 32 Type 2 patients (16.7, 95% Cl 12.6 to 21.9, %). Symptomatic autonomic neuropathy was uncommon but was significantly more frequent in Type 1 than Type 2 patients (5 Type 1, 1 Type 2, p less than 0.001 Fisher's exact test). In Type 1 diabetes, cardiovascular autonomic dysfunction was significantly associated with impaired vibration perception and a higher logarithmic urinary albumin concentration and, in Type 2 diabetes, it was associated with a significantly higher body mass index, systolic blood pressure, and logarithm of the urinary albumin and fasting insulin concentrations. The aggregation of these factors with cardiovascular autonomic dysfunction suggests that mortality might be increased in Type 2 patients with asymptomatic autonomic neuropathy. PMID- 2522370 TI - Serum lipids and lipoproteins in insulin-dependent diabetic patients with persistent microalbuminuria. AB - Serum lipid and lipoprotein concentrations were measured in 18 insulin-dependent diabetic patients with persistent microalbuminuria and an equal number with persistently normal albumin excretion. The groups were matched for sex, age, duration of diabetes, body mass index, insulin dose, and glycosylated haemoglobin. Diabetic patients with persistent microalbuminuria were found to have a significantly lower high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol concentration (difference 0.29, 95% Cl 0.12 to 0.46, mmol l-1, p less than 0.01) and a higher low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol:HDL cholesterol ratio (difference 0.97, 95% Cl 0.29 to 1.65, p less than 0.01) than patients with normal albumin excretion. No significant differences were found in total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, apolipoprotein (apo) A-I and apo B concentrations. Compared to an age and sex-matched group of non-diabetic subjects with normal albumin excretion, diabetic patients with persistent microalbuminuria had significantly higher concentrations of total cholesterol (p less than 0.05), LDL cholesterol (p less than 0.05) and apo B (p less than 0.01), but a lower concentration of HDL cholesterol (p less than 0.05). No significant differences were found in serum lipids and lipoproteins between diabetic patients with normal albumin excretion and non-diabetic subjects. PMID- 2522371 TI - The effect of glucose and insulin infusion on the fall of ketone bodies during treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis. AB - During the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis intravenous glucose is infused when blood glucose has fallen to around 14 mmol l-1. The use of hypertonic (10%) glucose has been recommended in order to hasten the clearance of blood ketone bodies. In a randomized controlled study 17 patients presenting with severe diabetic ketoacidosis were allocated to one of two regimens of intravenous glucose and insulin when blood glucose had fallen to less than 14 mmol l-1. Nine patients were given 5% glucose containing 10 U l-1 insulin and 8 patients received 10% glucose with 40 U l-1 insulin. Fluid was infused at a rate of 250 ml h-1 for 6 h. At the start of the infusions blood glucose had fallen from levels at presentation to 12.8 +/- 1.1 mmol l-1 (mean +/- SE) in the group which subsequently received the low infusion rate and to 13.7 +/- 0.9 mmol l-1 in the subsequent high infusion rate group. With glucose/insulin infusion blood glucose after 6 h was 11.5 +/- 0.9 mmol l-1 (low infusion rate group) and 15.7 +/- 1.3 mmol l-1 (high infusion rate group). This difference between groups at 6 h was significant (p less than 0.05). Over the 6 h of infusion the fall in blood total ketone bodies was significantly greater in the group receiving the higher rate of glucose/insulin infusion (7.34 +/- 0.57 vs 5.18 +/- 0.57 mmol l-1; p less than 0.05). Despite the greater fall in total ketone bodies in this group there was no difference in the improvement in capillary blood pH or bicarbonate.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2522372 TI - Vascular calcification, autonomic neuropathy, and peripheral blood flow in patients with diabetic nephropathy. AB - The possibility that digital gangrene in patients with diabetic nephropathy might be due to abnormalities of peripheral blood flow secondary to vascular calcification has been investigated. Twenty patients with renal failure due to diabetic nephropathy were studied. Peripheral blood flow was measured using venous occlusion plethysmography, together with an assessment of medial arterial calcification on plain radiographs of the hands and feet, and transcutaneous oxygen tension (TcPO2). Hallux blood flow was markedly raised (median 22.5, range 11.5-56.5, ml min-1 100-ml-1) compared with non-diabetic control subjects (4.7, 1.1-10.5, ml min-1 100-ml-1; p less than 0.01) and similar to that in diabetic patients with autonomic neuropathy (29.5, 16.7-49.6, ml min-1 100-ml-1). Although vascular calcification was common and extensive in the patients with diabetic nephropathy, TcPO2 measurements in the supine foot were normal and did not indicate tissue ischaemia. We conclude that despite extensive vascular calcification high peripheral blood flow occurs in the feet of these patients at rest together with normal transcutaneous oxygen tension. PMID- 2522374 TI - Diabetes in the UK West indian community: the Wolverhampton survey. AB - A survey was carried out to determine the prevalence of known diabetes amongst West Indians living in Wolverhampton. Two hundred and fifty-one West Indians with diabetes were identified from a computerized register, which records all diabetic patients in the Wolverhampton area attending either the hospital diabetic clinic or general practitioner mini-clinics, and from questionnaire data obtained through local general practitioners. An estimated 4.4% of the Wolverhampton population are of West Indian origin determined by the 1981 census, giving a prevalence of known diabetes of 2.2% compared with 1.2% in the indigenous UK white Caucasian population. Only 4% of these patients were truly insulin dependent but 38% were insulin-treated, 43% were on oral hypoglycaemic agents and 19% on diet alone. Only 1.6% were diagnosed below the age of 20 years, with peak frequency of diabetes occurring in the age group 45-64 years. Thirty-eight percent of all patients were obese, 40% were hypertensive, but only 4% had a history of angina or myocardial infarction. In UK West Indians non-insulin dependent diabetes is common and is predominantly a disease of middle age, whereas insulin-dependent diabetes is relatively uncommon. PMID- 2522373 TI - Hand abnormalities are associated with the complications of diabetes in type 2 diabetes. AB - Limited finger joint mobility, Dupuytren's contracture, and the complications of diabetes were assessed in 233 Type 2 diabetic patients. Limited joint mobility was present in 34% and Dupytren's contracture in 26%. The prevalence of limited joint mobility and Dupuytren's contracture increased with duration of diabetes and with age. Logistic regression analysis showed that, after allowing for age and duration of diabetes, limited joint mobility was independently associated with Dupuytren's contracture (odds ratio 5.7, 95% CI 2.0-16.4) and retinopathy (odds ratio 3.1, CI 1.5-6.4). Dupuytren's contracture was independently associated with vision-threatening retinopathy (odds ratio 2.6, CI 1.1-6.4), limited joint mobility (odds ratio 2.5, CI 1.3-4.8), and foot ulceration (odds ratio 4.9, CI 1.4-16.4). Both Dupuytren's contracture and limited joint mobility were associated with peripheral neuropathy but neither hand abnormality was associated with neuropathy independently of other complications of diabetes. The association of connective tissue abnormalities in the hand with the complications of diabetes suggests that similar factors may be contributing to their pathogenesis. PMID- 2522375 TI - Psychosocial factors and the onset of type 1 diabetes. AB - Stress has been proposed as a possible precipitating factor for the development of Type 1 diabetes in genetically susceptible individuals. A validated in-depth psychometric instrument (The Life Events and Difficulties Schedule) was used to investigate the role of psychosocial factors in the onset of Type 1 diabetes in islet cell antibody (ICA)-positive family members. Families with ICA-positive members had higher scores for subject focused severe life events in the 5-year period prior to the diagnosis of diabetes in a second family member compared with matched control families (1.50 +/- 0.68 (+/- SD) vs 0.32 +/- 0.37; p less than 0.03). In the same time period, these families also experienced a higher mean number of severe long-term difficulties compared with control families (1.34 +/- 0.52 vs 0.14 +/- 0.17; p less than 0.01). Scores for current total visual social contacts were greater for control families compared with case family members (12.10 +/- 1.90 vs 9.64 +/- 2.70; p less than 0.05). These results suggest that global family stress possibly in conjunction with a reduced number of social contacts may act as a trigger for the development of diabetes in a second family member and that social support may act as a buffer to stress and disease onset. PMID- 2522376 TI - Measuring outcome of diabetes: a retrospective survey. AB - The feasibility of using hospital discharge data to monitor six outcome indicators for diabetes care was assessed by reviewing retrospectively the occurrence of these events recorded in hospital records. The population studied was that of the Orkney Islands (19,500) over a 10-year period (1976-1985). During that time, 230 Orkney diabetic patients were treated in Orkney and/or Aberdeen hospitals. The six outcome indicators were: hospital admission rates for diabetic patients (609 in 230 patients), hospital admission rates specifically for diabetic ketoacidosis (29 in 20 patients), rates of diabetes-related lower limb amputations (36 in 23 patients), perinatal mortality rates related to maternal diabetes (nil), visual loss or blindness (13 eyes in 9 patients) and end-stage renal failure (one patient). Scottish Morbidity Returns (which collect data similar to that in the Hospital In-patient Enquiry in England) were shown by case note review to underestimate these outcomes by 41%. Cardiovascular disease, cerebrovascular disease, and peripheral vascular disease accounted for half of all in-patient bed use by diabetic patients (6077 of 13,951 days). The routinely available Scottish hospital discharge data, which are collected for a different purpose, are not sufficiently accurate or complete to reflect variations in actual diabetic events. PMID- 2522377 TI - Reducing acute hyperglycaemic mortality in African diabetic patients. AB - Acute diabetic hyperglycaemic emergencies carry a high mortality in tropical countries. Defining a 'hyperglycaemic emergency' as the perceived need for intravenous insulin and saline, we found a mortality of 15/60 (25%) in a 2-month period at Baragwanath Hospital, Soweto in 1981. Following this a programme of improved diabetes care was organized, involving optimization of insulin regimens, home blood glucose monitoring, patient education and concentration of resources on young insulin-dependent patients. Five years later, in 1986, the survey was repeated over a similar 2-month period. The mortality this time was 5/48 (10%), a significant reduction compared with 1981 (p less than 0.05). In addition, mean admission glycosylated haemoglobin fell from 11.8 +/- 2.4 (+/- SD) to 10.5 +/- 2.3% (p less than 0.05). These improvements were achieved by relatively simple and inexpensive manoeuvres which could be applied elsewhere in developing countries. PMID- 2522378 TI - The treatment of diabetic renal failure by continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis. AB - During the 6-year period 1981-1987, 309 patients started chronic ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD), of whom 75 (24%) had diabetes. Despite severe peripheral vascular problems (20%), ischaemic heart disease (90%), and complete blindness (21%) the 1-year patient survival on CAPD was 88%. The actuarial patient survival for diabetic patients was similar to that of the non-diabetic cohort over the first 18 months but fell to 48% (compared to 70% in non-diabetic patients) at 3 years. Complications associated with CAPD, including the incidence of peritonitis, were no different between the diabetic and non-diabetic patient populations. Successful treatment for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in diabetic patients can be achieved and justified in a liberal selection programme for the treatment of diabetic ESRD. PMID- 2522379 TI - Regulation of the immune response. PMID- 2522380 TI - Diabetes, race and genes. PMID- 2522381 TI - Proliferative retinopathy after 60 years of complication-free diabetes. AB - A patient developed proliferative retinopathy after more than 60 years of complication-free diabetes. This may have been precipitated by an episode of ketosis or by cataract extraction, and emphasizes the need for persistent vigilance in examination for retinopathy. PMID- 2522382 TI - Type 1 and type 2 diabetes and renal replacement therapy. PMID- 2522383 TI - Structural differences between the Ca2+-ATPase enzymes of sarcoplasmic reticulum membrane from rabbit and carp muscles. AB - 1. Structural features were compared in sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase enzymes from carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) and rabbit muscles. 2. Both membrane preparations contained the 105,000 mol. wt Ca2+ pump protein in high local density. 3. The tryptic cleavage of the carp enzyme gave different peptide fragments from those observed from rabbit enzyme. 4. Addition of vanadate, Ca2+ or lanthanides did not cause two-dimensional Ca2+-ATPase crystal formation, in contrast to the rabbit enzyme, which forms extensive arrays under these conditions. 5. No differences were found in this respect between microsome preparations derived from warm and cold adapted fishes. 6. A different primary sequence as well as a different disposition of the enzyme in the membrane may stand behind the observed dissimilarities. PMID- 2522384 TI - Bronchoalveolar lymphocytes in sarcoidosis. PMID- 2522385 TI - The inhaled bronchodilators ipratropium bromide and metaproterenol in adults with CF. AB - Ten patients with CF who were more than 18 years old, participated in a double blind, placebo-controlled study evaluating the efficacy of inhaled ipratropium bromide and metaproterenol as bronchodilators. The mean FEV1 of the group improved 17.1 percent after treatment with ipratropium bromide, 12.5 percent after metaproterenol treatment, and 16.6 percent after treatment with both of these medications together. There was no significant difference between these responses and patients who responded to one treatment tended to respond to the others. The side effects with these medications were minimal. When compared with patients in previous studies, our patients, who were much older as a group, demonstrated a greater degree of bronchodilation with ipratropium bromide and metaproterenol, as well as a greater degree of bronchoconstriction with placebo. PMID- 2522386 TI - [High-frequency rotational atherectomy in coronary heart disease]. AB - Percutaneous high frequency coronary rotational ablation (PTCR) was used in 10 patients with significant coronary artery disease. PTCR removes arteriosclerotic material from the vessel wall. A diamond-coated (60-80 micron) brass burr-drill, fastened to a flexible drive shaft rotating and tracking along a central coaxial guide wire, was used. The turbine rotates the drive shaft in excess of 150,000 190,000 revolutions per minute. PTCR was successful in all patients, but in three additional percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) was then successfully performed. Coronary dissection occurred only once, requiring surgery which was successful. No vessel perforation was observed. All vessels were open on the coronary angiograms performed after 24 hours. The main indication for PTCR seems to be a rigid and longer lesion which can not be dilated with the balloon catheter. PMID- 2522387 TI - Is atrial natriuretic peptide synthesized and internalized by gonadotrophs? AB - The present study was designed to determine whether atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) could be both synthesized and internalized by rat anterior pituitary gonadotrophs. ANP synthesis was assessed by in situ hybridization of ultrathin frozen sections of anterior pituitary to a biotinylated 30-base oligonucleotide to rat ANP mRNA. As revealed by the immunogold technique, only gonadotrophs were labeled by the probe. At the subcellular level, ANP mRNA was observed at both the nuclear and cytoplasmic levels in gonadotrophs, and labeling of the latter compartment was quantitatively more intense. Internalization of ANP was investigated by an in vivo ultrastructural autoradiographic approach. Intravenous injection of [125I]ANP resulted in rapid labeling within 1 min of the plasma membrane, cytoplasmic matrix, secretory vesicle, and mitochondrial compartments and the Golgi apparatus; these compartments were labeled throughout the remainder of the time course studied (1-30 min). Peak labeling of the plasma membrane compartment was at 1 min and diminished from that point; labeling in the Golgi apparatus peaked 5 min postinjection, while in the other compartments labeling was fairly uniform over the time course. The lysosomal compartment was also radiolabeled; however, only 2 and 5 min after injection of [125I]ANP. The findings demonstrate that gonadotrophs can both synthesize and internalize extracellular ANP. These observations can be extended to suggest that ANP has both autocrine and paracrine actions in the anterior pituitary gland. Since the peptide neither stimulates nor antagonizes the release of any anterior pituitary hormone, these actions are probably unrelated to the adenohypophyseal secretory function. PMID- 2522388 TI - Streptozotocin-induced deficits in sex behavior and neuroendocrine function in male rats. AB - The effects of streptozotocin-induced (STZ) diabetes on neuroendocrine and sexual function were evaluated in adult male rats. Adult male rats were injected with STZ (50 mg/kg) or vehicle and tested for copulatory behavior 7, 14, and 21 days later. The rats were killed 1 month after STZ or vehicle treatment for measurement of plasma hormone levels, hypothalamic catecholamine turnover, LHRH content, and in vitro pituitary function. The STZ rats showed significant deficits in mount, intromission, and ejaculatory behaviors. Plasma levels of testosterone, LH, FSH, and PRL were all significantly reduced in the STZ compared to the control rats, but in vitro LH secretion was enhanced after STZ treatment. In vitro PRL secretion and the inhibitory response to dopamine did not differ between the two groups. The levels of LHRH were reduced in the medial basal hypothalamus (MBH), but LHRH levels in the median eminence (ME) and anterior hypothalamus (AH) were unchanged after STZ treatment. Norepinephrine turnover was reduced in the ME, MBH, and AH of the STZ rats, while dopamine turnover was unchanged in the ME, increased in the MBH, and reduced in the AH of the STZ rats compared to those in the vehicle-treated controls. These results suggest that changes in pituitary and testicular function in rats made diabetic by STZ treatment are secondary to changes in hypothalamic catecholamine metabolism. Changes in copulatory behavior could be due to both reductions in plasma testosterone levels as well as changes in central neurotransmitter metabolism. PMID- 2522390 TI - Biochemical characterization of phi X174-protein-E-mediated lysis of Escherichia coli. AB - Energetic and permeability properties of Escherichia coli cells were determined prior to and during lysis caused by expression of the cloned gene E of bacteriophage phi X174. Before onset of cell lysis the transmembrane gradients for K+, Na+ or Mg2+/ions, the level of ATP and the membrane potential, were unaffected. All these parameters changed simultaneously at the time of lysis onset, as monitored by measurements of culture turbidity as well as by determining the various specifications over a period of 1 min. During cell lysis chromosomal DNA was fragmented whereas plasmid DNA was liberated in its intact supercoiled form. Cytoplasmic constituents were released almost entirely, as indicated by the activity of beta-galactosidase in the supernatant fraction of protein-E-lysed cells. Periplasmic enzymes were only found in limited amounts in the cell supernatant and most remained associated with the cell ghosts. Such ghosts exhibited no gross cell damage or morphological alterations when compared with intact E. coli by light microscopy. All parameters investigated indicated that protein-E-mediated lysis of E. coli is caused by the formation of a transmembrane tunnel structure through the envelope complex of the bacterium. PMID- 2522391 TI - Regulation of the cytoplasmic pH by a proton-translocating ATPase in Streptococcus faecalis (faecium). A computer simulation. AB - Earlier work from this laboratory led to the proposal that the cytoplasmic pH of streptococcal cells is regulated solely by changes in the amount and activity of a proton-translocating ATPase, F1F0 complex [Kobayashi, H., Suzuki, T. & Unemoto, T. (1986) J. Biol. Chem. 261, 627-630]. We have now examined the proposal with the aid of computer simulation. We find that an increase in the amount of the H+ ATPase is necessary for pH regulation and is sufficient to maintain a constant steady-state cytoplasmic pH. An increase in H+-ATPase activity is insufficient by itself to maintain a constant cytoplasmic pH, but suppresses the initial fluctuation of the pH. When both variations were allowed, the simulated cytoplasmic pH remained constant despite large perturbations, suggesting that this regulatory system has ample capacity to compensate for pH changes. The present work shows that a computer simulation is a useful way to examine a model for biological regulatory system; application of the simulation to other regulatory systems is discussed. PMID- 2522389 TI - Initial characterizations of nontransformed and transformed [3H ]aldosterone-type I receptor complexes in brain cytosol. AB - Incubation of [3H]aldosterone-type I receptor complexes in mouse brain cytosol with the chaotropic anion thiocyanate increased the fraction of receptors retained by DNA-cellulose from less than 10% to over 40%, whereas it decreased the fraction retained by protamine sulfate from more than 90% to less than 10%. Thiocyanate-induced transformation to the DNA-binding species was also accompanied by a 2.1-fold decrease in the rate of [3H]aldosterone dissociation from type I receptors as well as by an increase in the apparent positive charge and hydrophobicity of the surface of these receptors, as revealed by DEAE Bio-Gel ion exchange and pentyl agarose hydrophobic interaction chromatography. Sucrose density gradient sedimentation and Sephacryl S-300 gel exclusion chromatography revealed a reduction in the sedimentation coefficient and Stokes radius of the steroid-receptor complex from 9.6S and 8.0 nm before to 4.7S and 6.1 nm after transformation, respectively. These changes in hydrodynamic parameters were found to correspond to a 2.8-fold reduction in the apparent molecular mass from 331,000 before to 120,000 after transformation. In view of these various findings as well as the known differential affinity of protamine sulfate for the 90K heat shock protein, we suggest that thiocyanate-induced transformation is initiated by the dissociation of two molecules of heat shock protein from each steroid/DNA-binding type I receptor subunit. PMID- 2522392 TI - Effects of social integration on preschool children with handicaps. AB - This study examined the effects of (a) integrating handicapped and nonhandicapped children in preschools and (b) a condition designed to promote social integration. Fifty-six children with mild and moderate handicaps were randomly assigned to four experimental conditions: integrated/social interaction, integrated/child-directed, segregated/social interaction, and segregated/child directed. Observation revealed a higher proportion of interactive play, as well as higher language development, in the social interaction conditions; and children in the integrated/social interaction condition received significantly higher ratings of social competence. These data suggest that structuring social interaction between higher and lower performing children can result in benefits to the lower performing students. PMID- 2522393 TI - Fibronectin receptors of mononuclear phagocytes: binding characteristics and biochemical isolation. AB - Fibronectin receptors on mononuclear phagocytes are involved in the localization of monocytes at inflammatory sites and in the subsequent expression of macrophage like phenotypes. In this study, we have investigated the hypothesis that proteolytically derived fragments of fibronectin may interfere with binding of fibronectin to monocytes in the extracellular matrix. We report on the reactivity of U937 cells with an 80-kDa tryptic fragment of fibronectin which contains the cell-binding domain but lacks the gelatin/collagen-binding domain. U937 cells attached to surfaces coated with the 80-kDa fragment as well as with intact fibronectin. Preincubation of the cells with the 80-kDa fragment inhibited attachment to both surfaces while intact fibronectin had little or no inhibitory effect. The Ki for inhibition of attachment (0.5 microM) was consistent with the Kd for binding of the 3H-labeled 80-kDa fragment (0.34 microM) to U937 cells in suspension. There were 4-5 x 10(5) 80-kDa binding sites per cell. The relatively high affinity of the 80-kDa fragment for the monocyte surface permitted the isolation and characterization of fibronectin-binding proteins from U937 cells and peripheral blood monocytes by affinity chromatography. When octylglucoside lysates of lactoperoxidase iodinated cells were applied to 80-kDa-Sepharose columns, a polypeptide complex of 152/125 kDa was eluted with the synthetic peptide GRGDSPC, but not with GRGESP. This complex resolved into a single diffuse band of 144 kDa upon reduction. Binding of the protein complex to the affinity column required divalent cations. The complex bound to wheat germ agglutinin and could be specifically eluted by N-acetylglucosamine. Similar cell-surface proteins were isolated from peripheral blood monocytes. PMID- 2522394 TI - cDNA cloning and nucleotide sequence of lipocortin-like 33 kDa protein in guinea pig neutrophils. AB - cDNA clones of guinea pig neutrophil 33 kDa protein, a lipocortin like-protein, were isolated from two lambda gt10 libraries and one primer-extended lambda gt10 library of guinea pig neutrophils using synthetic oligonucleotide probes or cDNA fragment probe. The cDNA consists of 1389 nucleotides, and contains 1038 nucleotides encoding 346 amino acids of 33 kDa protein and a poly(A) tail. The deduced amino acid sequence shows high homology with those of lipocortin 1 from human U937 cells (89% homology) and rat lung (86%). PMID- 2522395 TI - Conformational modification of muscle phosphofructokinase from Jaculus orientalis upon ligand binding. AB - Phosphofructokinase from Jaculus orientalis muscle is an allosteric enzyme regulated by substrates and nucleotide effectors. The conformational modifications upon ligand binding were probed by UV difference spectra and reactivities of thiol groups towards dithiobisnitrobenzoate and N-ethylmaleimide. The binding of Fru-6-P induced significant perturbations in the environment of the aromatic residues and buried the most reactive on the three accessible cysteines per protomer. The same effect on thiol reactivity was observed upon binding of the activator AMP. Various perturbations of both difference spectra and thiol reactivity were detected in the presence of either Mg-ATP, an allosteric inhibitor, or Mg-ITP which is not an effector. PMID- 2522397 TI - Follicle size by ultrasound versus cervical mucus quality: normal and abnormal patterns in spontaneous cycles. AB - Ultrasound (US) has been demonstrated to be the method of choice for diagnosing luteinized unruptured follicle syndrome and to be a valuable adjuvant in the assessment of luteal phase defect. In this prospective study, the use of US with postcoital testing (PCT) is evaluated. Fifty control infertility patients were examined with serial US for follicle dynamics in conjunction with PCT. Standard curves for follicle dynamics versus cervical mucus quality (Insler score) were calculated. Eighteen patients referred for abnormal mucus underwent similar evaluation. Their follicle dynamics versus mucus quality were compared with those of the controls. The findings were: (1) there is a predictable relationship between follicle size and mucus quality, (2) the majority of patients with abnormal mucus have normal follicular dynamics, and (3) a minority of patients with abnormal mucus have either a narrow mucus window or abnormal follicular dynamics. In addition, US was found to be cost-effective in the overall fertility evaluation. PMID- 2522396 TI - Protoporphyrinogen oxidase inhibition by three peroxidizing herbicides: oxadiazon, LS 82-556 and M&B 39279. AB - Three chemically unrelated peroxidizing molecules, namely oxadiazon [5-(t-butyl) 3-(2,4-dichloro-5-isopropoxyphenyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2 -one], LS 82-556 [(S)3-N (methylbenzyl)carbamoyl-5-propionyl-2,6-lutidine] and M&B 39279 [5-amino-4-cyano 1-(2,6-dichloro-4-trifluoromethylphenyl)pyrazol], are potent inhibitors of plant, yeast and mouse protoporphyrinogen oxidase. PMID- 2522398 TI - Suppression of sperm function by depot medroxyprogesterone acetate and testosterone enanthate in steroid male contraception. AB - Ten normal men were given three monthly intramuscular injections of 200 mg of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) and 250 mg of testosterone (T) enanthate. Six men became azoospermic, while four remained oligozoospermic, with a mean sperm density of 1.5 +/- 0.3 standard error of the mean million/ml. Zona-free hamster oocyte penetration was abolished in all oligozoospermic samples at the end of treatment. Twenty of the 21 oligozoospermic samples yielding at least 0.6 to 5.0 million motile spermatozoa showed a complete absence of oocyte penetration. Semen parameters returned to normal, although some took up to 12 months. These findings demonstrated an antifertility action of MPA and T enanthate on the functional capacity of residual spermatozoa and support the view that extreme oligozoospermia may be a tenable target for reversible steroid male contraception. PMID- 2522400 TI - [Function-structural features of cardiac adaptation to static physical loads]. AB - The cardiovascular system of 70 white rats was studied during adaptation to the physical static load by means of functional and morphometric techniques. The physical static loads induced variations of adaptive changes of the myocardium: right ventricle hypertrophy was mainly responsible for the cardiac mass increase in 47.1% of rats; 31.4% of the hearts revealed an equal proportional hypertrophy of both ventricles; the predominants increase of the left ventricle mass was found in 17.2% of the animals; no changes were found in 4.3%. The various adaptive rearrangements of the myocardium led to individual peculiarities of the cardiac rhythm regulation. PMID- 2522399 TI - [Participation of beta-endorphins in organizing neuronal activity of the rabbit hypothalamic "hunger centers"]. AB - Microiontophoretic application of beta-endorphin activated neuronal activity (48%) rather than inhibited it (38%) or had no effect whatsoever (14%) in the later hypothalamus of satiated rabbits. Naloxone inhibited the neuronal activity in 75% of the cases as well as activated it (25%), no areactive neurons having been found. The variations of latency of the interspike intervals due to the effect of beta-endorphin depended on the background activity of the neurons. The beta-endorphin--sensitive neurons seem to play a part both in neuronal mechanisms of feeding motivation and in those of satiation. PMID- 2522402 TI - Maculopapular rash due to coumarin derivatives. AB - The case history is presented of a patient who developed a maculopapular rash following treatment with 3 different coumarin derivatives. Apparently cross sensitivity between coumarin derivatives may occur. PMID- 2522401 TI - Allergic contact dermatitis to naftifine. Report of two cases. AB - We report on two cases of allergic contact dermatitis due to naftifine, an antimycotic substance. Epicutaneous tests were positive with the reagent itself but not with other compounds of the ointment. Additionally, one of the patients reacted to an ointment containing clotrimazole. Until now, only few cases of contact allergy to naftifine have been described, but an increasing number is expected. PMID- 2522403 TI - Two-color flow cytometry analysis in alopecia areata. AB - Since previous studies have shown that circulating T cytotoxic/suppressor cells and natural killer cells are reduced in alopecia areata (AA), we attempted to find further imbalances in mononuclear cells by double labeling with these and additional monoclonal antibodies. In all, the blood of 35 patients and 44 controls was examined using the combinations anti-Leu 3a/8, Leu 2a/8, Leu 2a/15, Leu 7/15 and Leu 7/11a. We found a highly significant reduction of the subpopulation Leu 2a+8+ (p less than 0.008). The results show that patients with AA have additional abnormalities of the circulating mononuclear cells, whereby the reduced Leu 2a+8+ subpopulation represents a new additional marker. PMID- 2522404 TI - Overview of recent clinical pharmacokinetic studies with acitretin (Ro 10-1670, etretin). AB - Following oral administration of acitretin with food, peak plasma concentrations of unchanged drug (Ro 10-1670) are reached within 4 h. The mean absolute bioavailability of acitretin is 59% with high interpatient variability consistent with that of etretinate. Taking acitretin with food results in an increased and more consistent bioavailability. The drug appears to be extensively distributed throughout the body without unexpected accumulation and the elimination half-life is approximately 50 h. Acitretin has a profound pharmacokinetic advantage over etretinate because it is eliminated more rapidly from the body; etretinate is sequestered into fatty tissue due to its greater lipophilicity creating a deep compartment from which it is only slowly released. Acitretin is eliminated entirely by the metabolism and the resultant metabolites are excreted via the kidney and bile. PMID- 2522405 TI - Benefit of progressively increasing doses during the initial treatment with acitretin in psoriasis. AB - The purpose of this double-blind study was to compare the therapeutic effects of a low initial dosage of acitretin, increased at 2-week intervals (group 1: 10, 30, 50 mg/day) with a high initial dosage decreased at similar intervals (group 3: 50, 30, 10 mg/day) and with a constant dosage (group 2: 30 mg/day) in 66 patients (47 men and 19 women) with severe psoriasis. At the end of the double blind phase, the mean percent improvement, calculated by the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index score, was as follows: 62.7% in group 1, 55.9% in group 2 and 67.1% in group 3. The double-blind phase of 6 weeks was followed by an open phase of 6 weeks, during which the patients were treated either with 10, 30 or 50 mg/day, according to the therapeutic response. At the end of treatment (12 weeks), a mean improvement of more than 80% was obtained in all three groups. Hypervitaminosis A signs and symptoms were observed in all patients. The frequency and severity of these adverse reactions were shown to be dose dependent. This study shows that a low dose progressively increased is advisable because of similar activity and better acceptability. PMID- 2522407 TI - Cyclophosphamide-induced diabetes in NOD/WEHI mice. Evidence for suppression in spontaneous autoimmune diabetes mellitus. AB - Nonobese diabetic (NOD) mice spontaneously develop a lymphocytic infiltration of pancreatic islets (insulitis) that may progress to overt diabetes. Virtually all NOD/WEHI mice develop insulitis, but very few progress to diabetes. However, cyclophosphamide (CY) can promote the onset of diabetes in NOD mice, including the NOD/WEHI strain. The means by which CY produces diabetes was investigated in NOD/WEHI mice, in which it was hypothesized that active suppression mechanisms prevented the progression from insulitis to diabetes. A study of the time course of insulitis in the islets after CY was given showed that insulitis was initially reduced but rapidly increased over 16 days, and T-lymphocytes were predominant in the lesion. This suggested a compression of the normal time course of the disease seen in NOD mice. CY did not produce diabetes in any of 11 non-NOD strains studied. Fetal isografts in NOD mice given CY several days before were subjected to lymphocytic infiltration and beta-cell destruction. These findings suggested that CY was not directly beta-cell toxic and that altered beta-cells were not essential for beta-cell destruction. This was further demonstrated with subdiabetogenic doses of streptozocin, which significantly damaged beta-cells but did not increase the severity of insulitis or induce diabetes as did CY. Most important, the transfer of mononuclear cells from nondiabetic NOD mice to mice given CY prevented diabetes, which indicated that the likely effect of CY was via immunomodulation, possibly by allowing poised effector cells to act on beta cells.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2522406 TI - The early and late sea urchin histone H4 mRNAs respond differently to inhibitors of DNA synthesis. AB - The effect of inhibiting DNA synthesis on the concentration of the alpha-histone mRNA and the late histone mRNAs in sea urchin embryos was measured. The alpha histone mRNA concentrations did not change, while the late histone mRNA concentrations were rapidly reduced at the three developmental stages (morula, blastula, and mesenchyme blastula) tested. The rapid degradation of the late histone mRNAs was prevented when protein synthesis was inhibited. PMID- 2522408 TI - [In vitro demonstration of a deficit in suppressor T-cell function in alcoholic cirrhosis. Role of hepatitis B virus infection]. AB - The T lymphocyte suppressor cell activity has been evaluated in 33 alcoholic patients compared with 16 normal controls, using an in vitro test. Suppressor T cells were activated with concanavalin A, and suppressor effect was quantified by the inhibition of an autologous B cell culture response to Pokeweed Mitogen. When compared with controls, cirrhotic patients showed a significant defect of suppressor cell activity on B cell production of IgG (20 +/- 3 vs 46 +/- 5 p. 100, p less than 0.001) and IgM (26 +/- 4 vs 56 +/- 8 p. 100, p less than 0.05). In cirrhotic patients, defect of T cell suppressor function was independent of sex and severity of the cirrhosis (Child's staging). This defect was more marked in cirrhotics with serological markers of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection (n = 11) than in cirrhotics without markers (n = 22) (9 +/- 5 vs 25 +/- 3 p. 100, p less than 0.05; 16 +/- 6 vs 30 +/- 5 p. 100, p less than 0.05 respectively for IgG and IgM production suppression). These results suggest that HBV and lymphocytes interact directly. This interaction could increase the T suppressor cell defect, and explain the promoting role of HBV infection in the constitution of the cirrhosis in alcoholics even when viral replication is not serologically apparent. PMID- 2522410 TI - Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. PMID- 2522409 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor in cirrhotic patients with ascites. PMID- 2522412 TI - Serological survey of complement factor H in common laboratory and wild mice: a new third allotype. AB - Antigenic specificities of complement factor H from mice were studied serologically. In addition to previously reported allotypes, referred to as H.1 and H.2, a new allotype of complement factor H, H.3, was identified in the BFM/2Ms strain derived from European wild mice. Using three different alloantisera raised against the various mouse factor H allotype, a serological survey of the common laboratory strains and wild-derived strains of Mus musculus and its relatives, Mus spretus, Mus spretoides, and Mus spicilegus was carried out. All of the common laboratory strains examined in this survey had the H.1 allotype except for STR/N which had H.2. The geographical distributions of factor H allotypes in M. musculus were specific to the subspecies. Mice derived from Mus musculus domesticus and Mus musculus castaneus had the H.1 allotype. Mice derived from M. m. musculus, Mus musculus bactrianus, and Mus musculus molossinus had the H.2 allotype. Only BFM/2Ms and BFM/1Mpl strains derived from M. m. domesticus had the novel H.3 allotype. Sera of mice from strains derived from M. spretoides and M. spicilegus cross-reacted with H.2-specific antiserum, and those from M. spretus cross-reacted with H.3-specific antiserum. PMID- 2522411 TI - Effects on rat T-helper cell proliferation by syngeneic epidermal cells exposed to IFN-gamma in vivo. AB - In several conditions in the skin, characterized by T-cell infiltration, keratinocytes are induced to synthesize and express class II transplantation antigens. The biological significance of this induced expression is still not understood. In this study, class II antigens were induced on rat ear keratinocytes by local intradermal injections into the ear of rat recombinant interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma). Epidermal cell suspensions prepared from these ears contained more than 50% class II-expressing cells, as judged by immunocytochemistry, compared with less than 5% in untreated epidermis. When comparing the capacity of these to different epidermal cell populations to stimulate a syngeneic PPD-specific T-helper cell line, it was found that IFN gamma-exposed epidermal cells induced a lower T-cell response to PPD than did normal epidermal cells. This discrepancy could not be explained by either an infiltration of inflammatory cells into the epidermis of IFN-gamma-treated ears or by a difference in interleukin-1 production as determined in culture supernatants. The addition of indomethacin to cultures with IFN-gamma-exposed epidermal cells restored the T-cell response to PPD to that of normal epidermal cells, suggesting an inhibitory effect of prostaglandins. Our data indicate that epidermal cells exposed to IFN-gamma in vivo can suppress an antigen-specific T cell proliferation. PMID- 2522413 TI - Multi-gene/allele control of Mlsb of CBA/H. AB - Festenstein originally described the Mls locus as a single dominant autosomal gene with four alleles which mapped in the 13th linkage group of chromosome 1. We subsequently presented evidence indicating that the mixed leukocyte reaction (MLR) stimulatory products of DBA/2 and CBA/J were controlled by two independently segregating Mls loci and that Mls of C3H was in fact a composite of three independently segregating loci. Recently, Mlsd of CBA/J was shown to be composed of Mlsa of AKR and a product on C3H, which was presumed to be Mlsc. Based on strain distributions, this product cannot be encoded by the Mlsc originally defined by Festenstein. In the present report, three Mls specificities of CBA/H (Mlsb) are defined. Based on the strain distribution, we postulate that these specificities are controlled by three loci, three alleles/locus, or by some combination of the preceding two possibilities. PMID- 2522414 TI - Identification of T-cell receptor V beta deletion mutant mouse strain AU/ssJ (H 2q) which is resistant to collagen-induced arthritis. AB - Our laboratory is involved in investigating the role of T-cell receptor (Tcr) in collagen-induced arthritis (CIA). During these studies we found AU/ssJ (H-2q) mice to be resistant to CIA like SWR (H-2q), as compared with other H-2q strains with wild-type Tcr like DBA/1 and B10.Q. Upon screening with monoclonal antibodies F23.1 and KJ23a, AU/ssJ was found to be F23.1 negative (V beta 8 Tcr negative) and KJ23a positive (V beta 17a Tcr positive). Southern blot analysis on liver DNA using specific Tcr-V beta probes confirmed the deletion of V beta 8 gene family and also showed that AU/ssJ mice have deletions of V beta 9, V beta 13, V beta 12, and V beta 11 genes of Tcr. Further, these mice show a restriction fragment length polymorphism pattern with V beta 10, V beta 6, and V beta 17 probes similar to SWR mice as compared with B10 mice. Since SWR and AU/ssJ are from different backgrounds, these studies indicate that specific variable region beta chain genes of Tcr are crucial for susceptibility to CIA in mice. Furthermore, these studies identify an additional inbred strain which has also deleted 50% of its Tcr-V beta genes. PMID- 2522415 TI - Regulation of aldosterone receptor in rat kidney cytosol by atrial natriuretic factor. AB - We investigated the effect of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) on aldosterone receptors in the kidney cytosol, because the binding of aldosterone to aldosterone receptors in the cytosol is considered a critical step of its action. Rat atriopeptin III was injected into male Sprague-Dawley rats (200-250 g) via the femoral vein while under pentobarbital anesthesia, and aldosterone receptors in the kidney cytosol were determined. The maximum binding capacity and dissociation constant were calculated by the Scatchard analysis. Maximum binding capacity of both types of aldosterone receptor (Type I, high affinity and low binding capacity and Type II, low affinity and high binding capacity) gradually decreased after ANF injection, reached the lowest level after 2 hours, and then slightly recovered. When more than 2.5 micrograms/kg of rat atriopeptin III was injected, the density of aldosterone receptors significantly decreased. Injection of 12.5 micrograms/kg of rat atriopeptin III decreased maximum binding capacity of Type I receptor from 42.3 +/- 2.4 (mean +/- SD, n = 6) to 22.8 +/- 3.2 femtomole/mg protein (n = 6) (p less than 0.01), and that of Type II receptor decreased from 388 +/- 46 to 285 +/- 30 fmol/mg protein (p less than 0.01). Dissociation constant of both types of receptors did not change significantly after ANF injection. Plasma aldosterone concentration showed no significant change after ANF injection, and a significant change was noted after ANF administration on aldosterone receptors in the experiments on adrenalectomized rats 7 days after operation. Furosemide had no significant effect on aldosterone receptors in both normal and adrenalectomized rats.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2522416 TI - Influence of hypertension with minimal hypertrophy on diastolic function during demand ischemia. AB - Hearts with advanced pressure-overload hypertrophy from systemic hypertension have been shown to have an increased susceptibility to the development of diastolic dysfunction in response to tissue hypoxia and ischemia. It is not known if this propensity to develop diastolic dysfunction in response to ischemia is dependent on the presence of a substantial increase in left ventricular mass, or alternatively, is characteristic of hearts subjected to mild chronic hypertension early in the development of cardiac hypertrophy. We tested the hypothesis that systemic hypertension associated with mild left ventricular hypertrophy increases the susceptibility to the development of diastolic dysfunction in response to demand ischemia. The effects of demand ischemia (6 minutes) were studied in hearts from New Zealand white rabbits with chronic systemic hypertension produced by the one-kidney, one-wrap method (n = 15) and compared with age-matched, sham operated control rabbits (n = 11) with similar left ventricular mass (5.4 +/- 0.2 vs. 5.4 +/- 0.3 g, respectively). The hearts were studied using an isolated, isovolumic (balloon in left ventricle) preparation with absent pericardium that was perfused with fresh whole blood. At baseline, coronary perfusion pressure was 100 mm Hg with comparable coronary flow per gram left ventricular weight; the hearts were paced at a physiological rate of 3 Hz, and the left ventricular balloon volume was adjusted to achieve a left ventricular end-diastolic pressure of 15 mm Hg in both groups. Left ventricular balloon volume was similar in both groups and volume was thereafter held constant. At baseline, left ventricular systolic pressure (114 +/- 4 vs. 95 +/- 3 mm Hg, p less than 0.001) and developed pressure (18.9 +/- 1.2 vs. 15.1 +/- 0.9 mm Hg/g, p less than 0.05) were higher in the hearts from the hypertensive group in comparison with the control group. During the first minute of global ischemia produced by reducing coronary perfusion pressure from 100 to 20 mm Hg, there was an immediate fall in left ventricular systolic pressure in both groups without an increase in diastolic pressure. In response to the superimposition of pacing tachycardia (heart rate, 6 Hz) during the remaining 5 minutes of the period of ischemia, left ventricular developed pressure was comparable. However, isovolumic left ventricular end diastolic pressure (measured during long diastoles obtained with transient cessation of pacing) rose to a significantly higher level in the hearts from hypertensive rabbits than in those from the control rabbits (29 +/- 3 vs. 18 +/- 2 mm Hg, p less than 0.01).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2522417 TI - Pulsatile versus steady component of blood pressure: a cross-sectional analysis and a prospective analysis on cardiovascular mortality. AB - Studies on the prognostic significance of blood pressure on cardiovascular disease have essentially investigated the levels of diastolic or systolic blood pressure. However, blood pressure may also be divided into two other components: steady (mean arterial pressure) and pulsatile (pulse arterial pressure). The relations of these two components with cardiovascular risk factors and cardiovascular mortality were investigated in 18,336 men and 9,351 women aged 40 69 years, who were followed up for a mean period of 9.5 years. However, the interpretation of the relations is complicated by the strong correlation existing between these two components. A principal component analysis was performed to obtain two independent parameters: a steady and a pulsatile component index, strongly correlated with mean and pulse arterial pressure, respectively. In the cross-sectional analysis, relations were stronger with the steady component index than with the pulsatile component index; an association was found between left ventricular hypertrophy and the pulsatile component index in both sexes. The survival analysis was not performed in women under 55 as only 11 cardiovascular deaths occurred in this group. The steady component index was a strong prognostic factor of all types of cardiovascular death in both sexes. In women, the pulsatile component index was positively correlated to death from coronary artery disease and inversely correlated to stroke. In conclusion, the steady component of blood pressure is a strong risk factor for cardiovascular death in both sexes; the pulsatile component could be a risk factor independent of the steady component in women older than 55 years. PMID- 2522418 TI - Fibronectin increases Trypanosoma cruzi amastigote binding to and uptake by murine macrophages and human monocytes. AB - Trypanosoma cruzi amastigotes present receptors for human fibronectin as indicated by the saturable binding of [125I]fibronectin to this form of the parasite. Scatchard analysis indicates that the number of fibronectin receptors per amastigote was 1.3 x 10(3) with a Kd of approximately 2.3 nM. Addition of physiological concentrations of fibronectin to amastigote-macrophage cocultures significantly increased the binding of amastigotes to murine macrophages. This increase was evidenced in both the number of amastigotes bound to macrophages and the percentage of macrophages containing bound amastigotes. The uptake of amastigotes by either murine macrophages or human blood monocytes was also increased in the presence of exogenous fibronectin. The increase induced by fibronectin was blocked when amastigotes were pretreated with the RGDS tetrapeptide of the fibronectin cell attachment site. Furthermore, the ability of fibronectin to enhance amastigote binding to and uptake by macrophages was inhibited by the F(ab')2 fragment of anti-fibronectin immunoglobulin G (IgG) but not by an irrelevant anti-human IgG F(ab')2 fragment. Pretreatment of either amastigotes or macrophages with fibronectin also resulted in a significant increase in amastigote binding to and uptake by macrophages. These results suggest that fibronectin may play a role in facilitating the attachment and ingestion of T. cruzi amastigotes by macrophages and monocytes in chagasic tissue lesions. PMID- 2522419 TI - Effects of cyclosporin A on the cells responsible for the anticryptococcal cell mediated immune response and its regulation. AB - Cyclosporin A (CsA), a potent immunosuppressive drug, was used to explore further the induction, expression, and regulation of lymphoid cells involved in the delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) response to cryptococcal antigen(s). We found that the induction of the cells responsible for DTH (TDH cells) was not affected by CsA, but their expression was inhibited in CsA-treated mice. The inhibition of expression of the TDH cells could not be attributed to the Cryptococcus neoformans-specific suppressor T (Ts) cells, even though the Ts cells were induced in CsA-treated mice. Instead, the suppressed expression of the TDH cells in CsA-treated mice was a direct effect of CsA or its products. Our studies with CsA also resulted in the first identification of a population of cells that significantly amplify the anticryptococcal DTH response. The amplifier cells were induced in mice that were given a primary immunizing dose of cryptococcal antigen in complete Freund adjuvant, and they amplified the anticryptococcal DTH response in recipient mice when they were transferred at the time of immunization of the recipient. The amplifier cell population was distinct from the TDH cells in that CsA inhibited the production of the amplifying cells but did not affect the induction of TDH cells. Amplification of the DTH response was a cell-mediated event, since cells but not serum from immunized mice mediated the amplified response in recipient mice. Thus, CsA enabled us to characterize anticryptococcal TDH and Ts cells further and to add to the immune cell circuit of the cryptococcal system a distinct population of cells that amplifies the anticryptococcal DTH response. PMID- 2522421 TI - CD8+ T cells inhibit Plasmodium falciparum-induced lymphoproliferation and gamma interferon production in cell preparations from some malaria-immune individuals. AB - Infection with Plasmodium falciparum induces marked disturbances in normal immunoregulatory functions. Antigen-specific immunosuppression is a feature of acute malaria and has been linked to activation of CD8+ T suppressor cells. Among immune adults, cell-mediated immune responses to malaria antigens are extremely variable when measured in vitro, and there is no obvious relation between responsiveness and resistance to clinical disease. In this study, when CD8+ cells were removed from peripheral blood mononuclear cell preparations obtained from individuals who responded poorly to a soluble malaria antigen preparation, both lymphoproliferation and gamma interferon production were significantly enhanced, but responses to other soluble antigens and mitogen were unaffected. No effect of CD8+ cell depletion was seen in individuals whose undepleted mononuclear cells gave a high response to the malaria antigen. This suggests that for some malaria exposed individuals, CD8+ cells activated in vitro by exposure to malaria antigens suppress other cellular responses and may obscure the presence of potentially protective immune mechanisms. PMID- 2522422 TI - Actions of medroxyprogesterone acetate on the efficacy of cytotoxic drugs: studies with human breast cancer cells in culture. AB - Human breast cancer cells (MCF-7) showed increased responses to methotrexate and vincristine after a 48-hr pre-treatment with medroxyprogesterone acetate. The effect of the hormone, which was detectable at concentrations of between 10 and 100 nM, was independent of its growth-inhibitory action. These findings confirm a previous clinical study and have important implications with regard to the management of advanced breast cancer. PMID- 2522420 TI - Immune response to the iron-deprivation-induced proteins of Salmonella typhi in typhoid fever. AB - Iron starvation conditions limited the growth of Salmonella typhi, as evidenced by an increase in the lag phase of a culture and a decrease in the number of bacteria reached in the stationary phase. The analysis of the outer membrane of bacteria grown under these conditions identified new protein components with apparent molecular weights of 83,000, 78,000, and 69,000. The extent of induction of these proteins was regulated by increased iron deprivation. Immunoblot analysis showed that the serum of patients with typhoid fever exhibited an immunoglobulin G response to these iron-deprivation-induced proteins. The results of bioassays and DNA-DNA hybridization experiments indicated that pathogenic strains of S. typhi produced enterochelin but not aerobactin. Immunodetection with an anti-FepA antiserum confirmed that one of the induced proteins is the S. typhi analog of the Escherichia coli fepA gene product. These studies suggest a role for iron uptake in the pathogenesis of typhoid fever and confirm the immunogenicity of some of the outer membrane proteins of this pathogen. PMID- 2522423 TI - Percutaneous balloon aortoplasty of recoarctation: an alternative approach using the axillary artery. AB - A female infant, presenting with congestive cardiac failure at 6 weeks of age, was found to have severe juxtaductal coarctation of the aorta and multiple ventricular septal defects. She underwent resection of the coarctation with end to-end anastomosis. Four months postoperatively, she developed severe recoarctation with impalpable femoral pulses. Successful balloon aortoplasty was carried out using a percutaneous approach via the right axillary artery. PMID- 2522424 TI - Rotational thrombectomy in acute canine coronary thrombosis. AB - We have developed a mechanical thrombolytic catheter which defibrinates a fresh intra-arterial thrombus by wrapping fibrin about its rotating shaft. Defibrination results in liquification of the thrombus and reperfusion of the thrombotically occluded vessel. In this study, we employed this catheter-based approach in dogs with coronary thrombosis to simulate possible clinical use in acute myocardial infarction. Total coronary thrombosis was generated in 11 dogs. Spontaneous reperfusion did not occur over a 30-minute control period. All vessels studied were initially totally thrombosed. After mechanical thrombolysis, there was a significant improvement in percent diameter stenosis from 100% to 28 +/- 26% (P less than 0.001). After thrombolysis, angiographically graded blood flow was normal in 9 of 11 arteries and was mildly delayed in 2 of 11. Complications included perforation of 2 vessels. We conclude that mechanical thrombolysis, with a rotating catheter, results in prompt reperfusion of the infarct vessel and significant improvement in distal blood flow. This approach, unlike angioplasty, removes the thrombus and might serve as an alternative to or supplemental form of mechanical thrombolysis. PMID- 2522425 TI - More on transcranial Doppler. PMID- 2522426 TI - Phenotype and function of peripheral blood and bone marrow T-cell colonies: identification of DC3-, 4-, 8-autoreactive T cells. AB - The existence of immature autoreactive T cells has been examined in peripheral blood (PB) and bone marrow (BM) derived T-lymphocyte colonies (TLC) that have previously been shown to be potentially generated from CD3-negative BM-T cells. An extensive phenotypical analysis of total and T-depleted TLC showed that both PB- and BM-derived TLC contained a mean of 5% immature T lymphocytes (ITL), which were negative for the CD3, CD4, and CD8 antigens but displayed the CD2 and CD7 antigens. The only detectable immune functions of these isolated ITL were an allo and an autoreactivity without cytolytic activity. The self-reactivity of ITL was not detected in bulk non T-depleted TLC cells and seemed to be actively suppressed by autologous mature T cells. In addition, the auto-MLR of ITL was totally inhibited by anti-HLA class II but not by anti-class I monoclonal antibody (MoAb) and only partially by anti-CD4 moAb, whereas the anti-CD3 and anti-CD2 MoAbs gave no inhibition. Once activated, ITL could acquire in culture a mature T cell CD3 + CD4 + phenotype. The CD3-, 4-, 8-auto-reactive T cells present in T colonies could represent pre- or post-thymic cells that have not yet undergo or that have escaped the thymic selection. PMID- 2522427 TI - Specific suppression of mixed lymphocyte reactions by alloactivated cells is correlated with cytotoxicity. AB - Mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR)-activated lymphoblasts can suppress both proliferation and the induction of cell-mediated lysis (CML) when added to a subsequent MLR. Antigen specificity and the mechanism of MLR-induced suppression was investigated, with special emphasis on the exclusion of cell-mediated stimulator cell lysis as the cause of suppression. We studied the suppressive properties of nine MLR-activated cultures, selected because of their specific suppressive properties. Suppression of a given MLR was obtained when the stimulator cell carried at least one of the mismatched HLA antigens of the original stimulator. The mismatched antigen which activated suppression was an HLA class I antigen in 3 out of 9 cases, an HLA class II antigen in another 3 cases. In the remaining 3 cases suppression was observed when either an HLA class I or an HLA class II antigen was shared between the original stimulator and stimulator cell of the MLR. When analyzed on the same panel, a positive linear correlation between suppression of an MLR and CML activity against the stimulator cell was found. We also observed that both the original MLR (A*B) and the reserve MLR (B*A) could be suppressed by these anti-A suppressor cells. These results are compatible with the hypothesis that in the protocol studied suppression is mediated by lysis of the stimulator cells. PMID- 2522428 TI - Abdominal and flank pain as presenting symptoms of schwannoma. AB - Spinal cord tumors have been reported to cause abdominal, flank, and back pain. This case report describes an extensive evaluation of an adolescent male presenting with flank, abdominal, and back pain leading to the diagnosis of a schwannoma. The case underscores the need to consider spinal cord tumors in the differential diagnosis of abdominal and/or flank pain. PMID- 2522430 TI - Committee on AIDS. PMID- 2522429 TI - The effects of Dictyocaulus viviparus infection on energy metabolism of calves. AB - To determine the effects of lungworm infection on energy metabolism and rate of weight gain, five 3-mo-old male Friesian calves were infected orally twice each week with 640, third-stage larvae of Dictyocaulus viviparus (D.v.) over an 8-wk period. Infected calves were matched with uninfected controls on the basis of similar rates of feed consumption and weight gain during the acclimation period before infection. Infected calves were fed 2 kg of concentrates daily (88% DM), about 8.5 Mcal/d. Controls each received approximately 250 g less, about 7.5 Mcal/d. Similar amounts of hay (5.6 to 5.8 Mcal/d) were provided to all calves. Clinical, serum chemical, hematological and parasitological criteria, weight gain and utilization of energy were monitored on a weekly basis. Serum chemical and hematological analyses and clinical examinations of infected animals revealed signs typical of lungworm infection. Fecal and sputum sample examinations for infected calves were positive for D.v. larvae and ova, respectively. Control animals gained approximately 80 g.animal-1.d-1 more than infected calves. Lungworm infection had no significant effect on digestibility of energy or protein. Metabolizability of energy ingested was somewhat higher in the infected calves due to a higher dietary concentrate to roughage ratio. Utilization of metabolizable energy and protein tended to be less efficient for infected animals. Results showed that D.v.-infected calves need more feed for gain than do uninfected animals. This extra requirement is due to an increased maintenance requirement and probably to a reduced protein retention from digested protein. PMID- 2522431 TI - Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). General information. PMID- 2522432 TI - AIDS prevention. PMID- 2522433 TI - AIDS in Arkansas. Providing AIDS education to a vulnerable population: high school and college students. PMID- 2522434 TI - AIDS in Arkansas. Zidovudine: an overview and rationale for use. AB - AZT is now the standard of care for all persons with AIDS, ARC or T4 helper cell levels less than 200/mm3. Some authorities are cautiously recommending it with full informed consent for patients who have fewer than 400 mm3 T4 cells or who have sustained a rapid fall in helper cells coupled with new symptoms. The optimum dosage remains to be determined. Although the package insert recommends 200mg p.o. q. 4 hours, b.i.d. and Q6 hour dosage regimes have been reported as being as effective with less toxicity. Folate and B12 levels should be measured and replaced when appropriate to avoid undue hematologic toxicity and therapy should be interrupted for hemoglobin less than 7.5 or neutropenia consisting of fewer than 750 leukocytes/cc. For progressive, less severe marrow toxicity the dose may be decreased to avoid a prolonged nadir. A CBC should be obtained every two weeks for at least the first eight weeks and monthly thereafter if counts are stable. Other toxicities to be monitored include elevated transaminases and co administration with medications that affect hepatic glucuronidation such as probenecid, NSAID's and acetaminophen. In the eight years since this epidemic appeared on the medical horizon much has been learned about the disease and its treatment. More and more physicians are willing and eager to assume primary care responsibilities for their patients with AIDS and it is hoped AZT and other effective therapies will assist them in this process. PMID- 2522435 TI - Avascular necrosis of the femoral head. PMID- 2522436 TI - Measles in schools: age at vaccination vs risk of disease. AB - In January and February 1983, ten students in three schools in Batesville, AR developed measles. The index case was in a 7-year-old unvaccinated student who had just returned from a trip to Florida. Risk of measles for inadequately immunized students (unimmunized or immunized before their first birthday) in schools was 22 times greater than for those who had been immunized on or after 12 months of age. Measles transmission occurred despite 90% of the school children having had documented evidence of adequate vaccination. PMID- 2522437 TI - Cadmium inhibition of the erythrocyte Ca2+ pump. A molecular interpretation. AB - The effects of cadmium (Cd2+) on transmembrane Ca2+ transport and on the membrane permeability for Ca2+ were studied in human erythrocytes. The erythrocyte Ca2+ pump is inhibited competitively by Cd2+ via interaction with the Ca2+ transport site of the carrier and not via interaction with its activator calmodulin. The affinity of the Ca2+ pump for Cd2+ is extremely high (KI = 2.0 nM Cd2+). Cd2+ (less than or equal to 10(-4) M) does not alter the membrane permeability for Ca2+. We conclude that the pivotal mechanism in the toxic action of Cd2+ is the inhibition of Ca2+-ATPase mediated Ca2+ extrusion. As a result Cd2+ disturbs intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis and may increase cytosolic Ca2+ (Ca2+i) to toxic levels. PMID- 2522438 TI - Ovine ceroid lipofuscinosis. The major lipopigment protein and the lipid-binding subunit of mitochondrial ATP synthase have the same NH2-terminal sequence. AB - Previous studies on lipopigment isolated from sheep affected with ceroid lipofuscinosis (Batten's disease) showed that the disease is a lysosomal proteinosis, involving specific storage of peptide(s) that migrate in dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis with an apparent Mr of 3500. This band is the dominant contributor to the lipopigment mass. When purified total lipopigment proteins were loaded onto a protein sequencer, a dominant sequence was found, identical to the NH2 terminus of the lipid-binding subunit of protein translocating mitochondrial ATP synthase. This sequence was determined to 40 residues and a minimum estimate of 40% made for its contribution to the lipopigment protein mass. The full lipid-binding subunit has physical and chemical properties similar to those of the specifically stored low Mr peptide, which may be the full protein or a large NH2-terminal fragment of it. Lipopigments in the human ceroid lipofuscinoses also contain a major component with similar physical and chemical properties. These and previous results indicate that the genetic lesion in ovine ceroid lipofuscinosis causes an abnormal accumulation of this peptide in lysosomes, i.e. the disease is a proteolipid proteinosis, specifically a lysosomal mitochondrial ATP synthase lipid-binding subunit proteinosis. The analogous human diseases are likely to reflect storage of the same or similar peptides. PMID- 2522440 TI - Characterization of the phosphorylated intermediate of the K+-translocating Kdp ATPase from Escherichia coli. AB - During ATP hydrolysis the K+-translocating Kdp-ATPase from Escherichia coli forms a phosphorylated intermediate as part of the catalytic cycle. The influence of effectors (K+, Na+, Mg2+, ATP, ADP) and inhibitors (vanadate, N-ethylmaleimide, bafilomycin A1) on the phosphointermediate level and on the ATPase activity was analyzed in purified wild-type enzyme (apparent Km = 10 microM) and a KdpA mutant ATPase exhibiting a lower affinity for K+ (Km = 6 mM). Based on these data we propose a minimum reaction scheme consisting of (i) a Mg2+-dependent protein kinase, (ii) a Mg2+-dependent and K+-stimulated phosphoprotein phosphatase, and (iii) a K+-independent basal phosphoprotein phosphatase. The findings of a K+ uncoupled basal activity, inhibition by high K+ concentrations, lower ATP saturation values for the phosphorylation than for the overall ATPase reaction, and presumed reversibility of the phosphoprotein formation by excess ADP indicated similarities in fundamental principles of the reaction cycle between the Kdp-ATPase and eukaryotic E1E2-ATPases. The phosphoprotein was tentatively characterized as an acylphosphate on the basis of its alkali-lability and its sensitivity to hydroxylamine. The KdpB polypeptide was identified as the phosphorylated subunit after electrophoretic separation at pH 2.4, 4 degrees C of cytoplasmic membranes or of purified ATPase labeled with [gamma-32P]ATP. PMID- 2522439 TI - Cytoplasmic assembly and nuclear accumulation of mature small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particles. AB - The assembly pathway of small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP) particles in the cytoplasm of L929 mouse fibroblasts was analyzed by observing the nuclear accumulation of snRNP proteins. Immunoprecipitations of nuclear and cytoplasmic fractions after a pulse label and chase indicate that the snRNP D, E, F, and G proteins assemble first, followed by the small nuclear RNA (snRNA), then the snRNP B protein and, in the case of the U1 snRNP, the A and C proteins. The snRNP B' protein is not detected in the L929 cells. The U1-specific A and C proteins can enter the nucleus in the absence of snRNP assembly, suggesting that these proteins exchange on the mature nuclear snRNP particles. Two-dimensional electrophoresis using nonequilibrium pH gradient electrophoresis identifies the A, B, B", C, D, E, F, and G proteins in a distribution similar to that reported previously by immunoprecipitation (Sauterer, R. A., and Zieve, G. W. (1989) J. Biol. Chem., submitted for publication). The D protein appears in multiple isoelectric variants in the cytoplasm and shifts toward more basic variants during maturation. Kinetic experiments analyzed by two-dimensional electrophoresis indicate a quantitative maturation of the cytoplasmic B protein into nuclear particles. Quantitative densitometry of immunoprecipitated stable nuclear snRNPs labeled with [35S] methionine corrected for the published methionine content of the A, B, C, D, and E proteins indicates that the mature nuclear U1 snRNP probably contains four copies of D, two copies each of B, C, and A, and one copy of E. PMID- 2522441 TI - The gene for the rat mast cell high affinity IgE receptor alpha chain. Structure and alternative mRNA splicing patterns. AB - We have isolated and characterized the gene coding for the alpha subunit of the rat mast cell high affinity IgE receptor. The gene comprises five exons and four introns and spans approximately 6.6 kilobases. The leader sequence is encoded by two exons, the second of which is only 21 base pairs long. The third and fourth exons each code for repeating immunoglobulin-like extracellular domains. A hydrophobic transmembrane domain and positively charged cytoplasmic tail are encoded by a single final exon. The sequence of the 5'-flanking region was determined, and the major transcription initiation site was mapped. The structure of the gene suggests that two minor species of RNA produced by rat basophilic leukemia cells are due to alternative splicing. In one case, the small second exon is removed entirely, and, in the other, 163 base pairs at the 3' end of the fourth exon are removed. The latter species of RNA suggests the possibility of a secreted form of the alpha chain of the receptor. A third variant species of RNA, lacking a leader sequence, may be due to use of an alternative transcription initiation site. PMID- 2522442 TI - Regulation of steady state filling in sarcoplasmic reticulum. Roles of back inhibition, leakage, and slippage of the calcium pump. AB - Calcium filling of sarcoplasmic reticulum vesicles in the steady state is greatly increased by precipitation of lumenal calcium with oxalate. We find that low concentrations (1 mM) of Pi also allow greater loading by forming a soluble complex with lumenal calcium, an effect that is likely to be of physiological relevance. Furthermore, ADP scavenging by ATP regenerating systems favors calcium loading by preventing reversal of the pump. We also find that uncoupling of ATPase and transport activities is another factor limiting calcium loading. In fact, calcium uptake and ATP utilization occur with a molar ratio of 2:1 in the transient state following addition of ATP but decrease to much lower values in the steady state. Even in the absence of the highly conductive channel which is present only in "heavy" vesicles, "light" vesicles display calcium leakage which is inhibited by medium Ca2+ in the concentration range of ATPase activation and is likely related to an ATPase channel which is involved in calcium transport. It is apparent that, under conditions of ATPase turnover and in the presence of high lumenal Ca2+ and ADP, slippage of calcium through this channel produces true uncoupling of catalytic and transport activities. Coupling is improved by complexation of lumenal Ca2+ and by ATP regeneration and is influenced by the solvent characteristics of the reaction medium. The synergistic effects of lumenal Ca2+ and ADP, and the role of alternate pathways for phosphoenzyme cleavage, are clarified by steady state analysis of a multiple step reaction mechanism. It is concluded that the ideal (2:1) stoichiometric coupling of transport and ATPase activities is not insured by an obligatory pathway of catalysis (as predicted by all reaction schemes published so far); rather, coupling is influenced by the concentrations of ligands and their effects on second order reactions and the consequent distribution of intermediate states. PMID- 2522443 TI - Quantitative analysis of sea urchin egg kinesin-driven microtubule motility. AB - We have analyzed the effects of various substrates and inhibitors on the rates of microtubule (MT) motility induced by sea urchin egg kinesin using real-time computer analysis and video-enhanced light microscopy. In the presence of magnesium, 10 mM concentrations of all the nucleotides tested supported MT translocation, with velocities in MgATP greater than MgGTP greater than MgTTP approximately equal to MgUTP greater than MgCTP greater than MgITP. The velocity of kinesin-driven MT motility is fairly uniform over approximately 3 pH units, from pH 6 to 9, with almost no motility outside this range. In the presence of ATP, no motility is observed in the absence of divalent cations; addition of Mg2+ but not addition of Ca2+ restores motility. MgATP-dependent MT motility is reversibly inhibited by Mg-free ATP, EDTA, or tripolyphosphate, suggesting that Mg-free ATP is an inactive substrate analogue. MgATP and MgGTP both obey saturable, Michaelis-Menten kinetics, with apparent Km values of approximately 60 microM and 2 mM, and Vmax values of approximately 0.6 and 0.4 microns/s, respectively. MgATP gamma S and MgADP are classic competitive inhibitors of kinesin-driven motility in MgATP, with Ki values of approximately 15 and 150 microM, respectively. Adenosine 5'-(beta, gamma-methylene)-triphosphate and N ethylmaleimide only inhibit MT motility weakly, while adenyl-5'-yl imidodiphosphate and vanadate strongly inhibit MT motility, but not in a simple competitive manner. Moreover, in contrast to other inhibitors which cause a unimodal decrease in MT mean velocity, vanadate concentrations greater than approximately 10% that of MgATP cause some MTs to become immotile, resulting in a bimodal distribution of MT velocities. PMID- 2522444 TI - Expression of human parathyroid hormone in Escherichia coli. AB - Human parathyroid hormone (PTH) has been expressed in Escherichia coli as a cro beta-galactosidase-hPTH fusion protein under temperature-sensitive control of the lambda phage PR promoter. The lacZ gene has been truncated to a different extent revealing an optimal length of the prokaryotic peptide portion between 199 and 407 amino acid residues. Up to 250 mg of pure fusion protein have been obtained from 1-liter E. coli culture by stepwise solubilization with urea. The linkage between the prokaryotic and the eukaryotic protein moiety consists of an Asp-Pro peptide bond and therefore is easily cleavable by acid treatment. A simple procedure for the purification of the hormone is described. The resulting recombinant hormone reacts with anti-PTH antibodies and stimulates renal adenylate cyclase identically to bovine or human PTH. PMID- 2522446 TI - Nicotinamide prolongs survival of primary cultured hepatocytes without involving loss of hepatocyte-specific functions. AB - When hepatocytes isolated from adult rats were cultured in the presence of 10 mM nicotinamide, insulin- and epidermal growth factor-induced DNA synthesis and cell proliferation were found to be greatly stimulated, and the cells were able to be kept alive for more than one month. In the nicotinamide-treated hepatocytes, albumin and tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase mRNAs were present at much higher levels than in the untreated control, and the inducibility of tryptophan oxygenase gene expression by dexamethasone and glucagon was also preserved. Without nicotinamide, primary cultured hepatocytes were viable for only 5-7 days and the hepatocyte-specific phenotypes were rapidly lost. The intracellular NAD level was maintained in the nicotinamide-treated hepatocytes at or above the level in intact liver but depleted in hepatocytes without nicotinamide. These results suggest that the maintenance of the intracellular NAD level is essential for the growth and functioning of hepatocytes and that nicotinamide can preserve the NAD level by blocking NAD degradation as well as by acting as a precursor for NAD synthesis. PMID- 2522445 TI - Purification and characterization of a calcium-dependent ATPase from Paramecium tetraurelia. AB - We report the purification of a CaATPase of high specific activity from Paramecium tetraurelia. The enzyme is preferentially released into solution upon deciliation of cells by a Ca2+ shock procedure. Purification by ion exchange and gel filtration chromatography yields major peptides of 68 and 53 kDa and a minor peptide of 58 kDa, as determined by electrophoresis on sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gels. These three peptides yield similar proteolytic peptide maps. Rabbit antisera to the purified enzyme inhibit enzyme activity and specifically label 68- and 53-kDa bands on nitrocellulose blots of the deciliation supernatant from which the enzyme is isolated. Concanavalin A-Sepharose precipitates about 60% of ATPase activity; only the 53-kDa band binds concanavalin A on nitrocellulose blots. The purified enzyme has a specific activity of 620 +/- 70 mumol/min/mg with ATP as substrate in the presence of Ca2+, which is required for enzyme activity. As substrates, ATP and GTP are strongly preferred to UTP and CTP. The Km for ATP in the presence of 3 mM Ca2+ is approximately 20 microM. Enzyme activity is strongly inhibited by the calmodulin antagonists trifluoperazine, fluphenazine, W7, and calmidazolium. However, calmodulin is not associated with the purified enzyme, based on the enzyme's inability to bind anti calmodulin antibodies or to stimulate brain phosphodiesterase. The intracellular origin of this ATPase, its possible function, and its relationship to several other ATPases of Paramecium are discussed. PMID- 2522447 TI - Detergent structure and associated lipid as determinants in the stabilization of solubilized Ca2+-ATPase from sarcoplasmic reticulum. AB - The properties of detergents required to substitute the lipid environment of sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase with retention of good functional properties were determined by the use of a large number of diverse detergents and delipidated enzyme. Detergents having an intermediate chain length (approximately equal to C12) and a polyoxyethylene glycol or carbohydrate polar group were optimal for Ca2+-ATPase function and stabilization, while detergents with short alkyl chain (C8) or bulky head groups and many zwitterionic detergents led to rapid inactivation. Under optimal conditions (including solubilization in the E1 state), stability of delipidated Ca2+-ATPase approximated that obtained by solubilization of Ca2+-ATPase with a layer of bound lipid. Some detergents (in particular long chain members of the Tween family) were characterized by an inadequate interaction with delipidated Ca2+-ATPase, resulting in biphasic inactivation. According to analytical ultracentrifugation and high performance liquid chromatography experiments, the rapid and slow components of biphasic inactivation were due to the formation of monomeric and oligomeric Ca2+-ATPase, respectively. It is concluded that both hydrophobic and polar interactions are important for the detergent effect and that solubilizing detergents of intermediate and short chain length may be bound as a monolayer, differently than the membrane lipid. Long chain detergents cause protein aggregation and, despite their resemblance to natural lipids, are inferior in their activity-retaining properties. The previous use of such detergents to prepare oligomeric Ca2+-ATPase with long term retention of activity (cf. Moller, J. V., Anderson, J. P., and le Maire, M. (1988) Methods Enzymol. 157, 261-270) is shown to depend on the presence of residual lipid in these preparations. PMID- 2522448 TI - Prolonged incubation with phorbol esters enhanced vasopressin-induced calcium mobilization and polyphosphatidylinositol hydrolysis of vascular smooth muscle cells. AB - Arginine vasopressin (AVP)-induced formation of inositol phosphates and increased calcium efflux in smooth muscle cells (A-10) were inhibited by short term treatment with phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate (PDBu), an activator of protein kinase C (Ca2+/phospholipid-dependent protein kinase) (Aiyar, N., Nambi, P., Whitman, M., Stassen, F. L., and Crooke, S. T. (1987) Mol. Pharmacol. 31, 180-184). Here we report that prolonged treatment of A-10 cells (48 h) with PDBu markedly enhanced AVP-induced calcium mobilization but inhibited ATP- and thrombin-induced calcium mobilization. PDBu (400 nM) doubled [Ca2+]i induced with 3 nM AVP, while the basal calcium concentrations before and after AVP were not different from those of untreated cells. The EC50 for a 24-h exposure was 2.3 nM PDBu. Phorbol 12 myristate 13-acetate was also effective, while 4-alpha-phorbol 12,13-didecanoate (48 h at 400 nM) was without effect. 4-alpha-phorbol 12,13-didecanoate also did not affect inositol phosphate formation. PDBu markedly enhanced inositol phosphate formation induced by AVP but not by NaF. PDBu did not affect basal inositol phosphate and polyphosphoinositide levels, and cytosolic and membrane associated phospholipase C activity. PDBu treatment (48 h, 400 nM) decreased membrane-associated and cytosolic protein kinase C activity by 80 and 90%, respectively. However, the dose response and time course of changes in protein kinase C activity did not correlate with the same curves for PDBu enhancement of AVP-induced calcium mobilization. We conclude that prolonged PDBu treatment selectively enhanced AVP-induced calcium mobilization and polyphosphoinositide hydrolysis. These effects were not caused by an increase in vasopressin receptor number and apparent affinity, an increase in phospholipase C activity, G-protein phospholipase C coupling, formation of polyphosphoinositide, or inhibition of inositol phosphate metabolizing enzymes. Enhancement of the AVP responses did not correlate with desensitization or activation of protein kinase C. We suggest that prolonged PDBu treatment might sensitize a putative V1 receptor-G-protein phospholipase C complex. PMID- 2522449 TI - Primary structure of a human small nuclear ribonucleoprotein polypeptide as deduced by cDNA analysis. AB - Anti-Sm is an antibody specificity often associated with the autoimmune disease systemic lupus erythematosus. The polypeptides Sm-B'/B (estimated molecular mass 27 and 26 kDa, respectively) are primary targets of Sm antibodies. Sm-B'/B are part of the core polypeptides of small ribonucleoprotein particles (snRNP) involved in pre-mRNA splicing. Sm-B'/B share the same amino-terminal sequence as we determined by microsequence analyses of the purified polypeptides. Oligonucleotide probes based on that sequence were used to isolate seven clones from a human lymphoblastoid cDNA library in lambda gt10. The clones contained a single coding region for a protein of approximately 25 kDa. The predicted amino terminal sequence was identical to that of the isolated Sm-B'/B polypeptides. In vitro translation experiments produced a protein immunoreactive with human polyclonal anti-Sm antibodies. The isolation of only one unique cDNA sequence suggests that Sm-B'/B may be post-translational variants encoded by a single message. The specific structural features which distinguish Sm-B' from Sm-B have yet to be determined. Northern blot analysis confirmed the diverse tissue and species distribution expected for these immunologically conserved polypeptides. The Sm-B'/B primary sequence is rich in proline (20%) and glycine (15%) residues. The prolines are concentrated in the carboxyl-terminal half of the protein and display a repetitive unit that is shared with other snRNP and nucleic acid binding proteins. Analysis of these arrays suggests an eight residue proline-rich consensus sequence with potential as either an RNA binding domain, or as a site of protein/protein interaction. PMID- 2522450 TI - Genetic cause of a juvenile form of Sandhoff disease. Abnormal splicing of beta hexosaminidase beta chain gene transcript due to a point mutation within intron 12. AB - Abnormal beta-hexosaminidase beta chain cDNA clones were isolated from a library constructed from cultured fibroblasts of a patient with a juvenile form of Sandhoff disease (genetic beta-hexosaminidase A and B deficiency). Sequence analysis of a cDNA clone isolated from these fibroblasts contained an extra 24 base segment between exons 12 and 13. This segment was identified as the 3' terminus of intron 12. The remainder of the coding sequence was completely normal. The same 24-base insertion was found in four additional clones by sequencing. Restriction mapping analysis of seven other clones was consistent with the presence of the same 24-base intron 12 segment. This insertion is inframe and adds 8 amino acids between amino acids 491 and 492 of the primary sequence of the normal enzyme protein. It is located only 5 amino acids away from a possible glycosylation site. The finding is consistent with the slightly larger than normal size of the beta subunit precursor protein observed by immunoprecipitation. No normally spliced mRNA was detected. Gene amplification by the polymerase chain reaction and subsequent sequencing of genomic DNA indicated that the patient was a compound heterozygote. In one allele, there was a single nucleotide transition from normal G to A at 26 bases from the 3' terminus of intron 12. This mutation generates a consensus sequence for the 3' splice site for an intron, CAG/G, and thus explains the abnormal mRNAs that retain 24 bases of the 3' terminus of intron 12. The intron 12 and flanking exons 12 and 13 sequences were normal in the other allele, which is a priori also genetically abnormal. The other mutant allele therefore is likely to be of an mRNA-negative type. PMID- 2522451 TI - Patterns of impairment and disability related to social handicap in young people with cerebral palsy and spina bifida. AB - This paper explores the inter-relationships between impairment and disability in a sample of 119 teenagers in relation to their psychological adjustment and quality of social life. Poor psychological adjustment and extreme social isolation are associated not so much with individual functional limitations as with particular configurations of impairments and disabilities. It seems that social handicap is not a direct consequence of any impairment or disability but arises generally from severe functional loss and is shaped by dependency on others, restricted choices, physical barriers and adverse reactions of others. PMID- 2522452 TI - True aneurysm in a prosthetic aorto-femoral dacron graft. AB - Aneurysms occurring in prosthetic grafts are a very rare phenomenon. However, false aneurysms are a known complication which can appear in the anastomotic site of the graft, but very seldom in the middle of the prosthetic graft. True aneurysm of a dacron graft is extremely rare, and very few have been reported in the literature. We present a case report of true aneurysm of a dacron graft that was implanted seven years before, found on a routine examination and confirmed on a pathological examination and successfully operated upon. PMID- 2522453 TI - Long-term results of arterial reconstruction of lower extremities determined by flow waveform analysis. AB - Arterial reconstructions of the lower extremities were reviewed to assess the usefulness of flow waveform analysis. Six hundred and thirty-four arterial reconstructions were divided into two groups: a former (1965-1973) group of 218 reconstructions not assessed by flow waveform analysis and a recent (1974-1985) group of 416 reconstructions analyzed according to flow waveform. The cumulative patency rates of the former and the recent group at 5 years were as follows: aorto-femoral, 75.2% and 86.7% (P less than 0.05); femoral-distal, 34.6% and 61.5% (P less than 0.001); extra-anatomical, 63.6% and 80.2% (P = 0.06), respectively. Based on the various flow waveforms evidenced intraoperatively, the cumulative patency rate of cases in the recent group with type 0 and I flow waveform was compared to the rate of those with type II flow waveform. The cumulative patency rates at 5 years were as follows: aorto-femoral, 92% and 82.7% (P = 0.15); femoral-distal, 77.7% and 49.3% (P less than 0.001); extra anatomical, 91.8% and 68.9% (P less than 0.05), respectively. These results indicate that intraoperative flow waveform analysis is a simple and useful indicator for predicting the long-term results of arterial reconstruction. PMID- 2522455 TI - Monoclonal antibodies to kinesin heavy and light chains stain vesicle-like structures, but not microtubules, in cultured cells. AB - Kinesin, a microtubule-activated ATPase and putative motor protein for the transport of membrane-bounded organelles along microtubules, was purified from bovine brain and used as an immunogen for the production of murine monoclonal antibodies. Hybridoma lines that secreted five distinct antikinesin IgGs were cloned. Three of the antibodies reacted on immunoblots with the 124-kD heavy chain of kinesin, while the other two antibodies recognized the 64-kD light chain. When used for immunofluorescence microscopy, the antibodies stained punctate, cytoplasmic structures in a variety of cultured mammalian cell types. Consistent with the identification of these structures as membrane-bounded organelles was the observation that cells which had been extracted with Triton X 100 before fixation contained little or no immunoreactive material. Staining of microtubules in the interphase cytoplasm or mitotic spindle was never observed, nor were associated structures, such as centrosomes and primary cilia, labeled by any of the antibodies. Nevertheless, in double-labeling experiments using antibodies to kinesin and tubulin, kinesin-containing particles were most abundant in regions where microtubules were most highly concentrated and the particles often appeared to be aligned on microtubules. These results constitute the first direct evidence for the association of kinesin with membrane-bounded organelles, and suggest a molecular mechanism for organelle motility based on transient interactions of organelle-bound kinesin with the microtubule surface. PMID- 2522454 TI - The role of cyclin B in meiosis I. AB - In clams, fertilization is followed by the prominent synthesis of two cyclins, A and B. During the mitotic cell cycles, the two cyclins are accumulated and then destroyed near the end of each metaphase. Newly synthesized cyclin B is complexed with a small set of other proteins, including a kinase that phosphorylates cyclin B in vitro. While both cyclins can act as general inducers of entry into M phase, the two are clearly distinguished by their amino acid sequences (70% nonidentity) and by their different modes of expression in oocytes and during meiosis. In contrast to cyclin A, which is stored solely as maternal mRNA, oocytes contain a stockpile of cyclin B protein, which is stored in large, rapidly sedimenting aggregates. Fertilization results in the release of cyclin B to a more disperse, soluble form. Since the first meiotic division in clams can proceed even when new protein synthesis is blocked, these results strongly suggest it is the fertilization-triggered unmasking of cyclin B protein that drives cells into meiosis I. We propose that the unmasking of maternal cyclin B protein allows it to interact with cdc2 protein kinase, which is also stored in oocytes, and that the formation of this cyclin B/cdc2 complex generates active M phase-promoting factor. PMID- 2522456 TI - The incubation of laminin, collagen IV, and heparan sulfate proteoglycan at 35 degrees C yields basement membrane-like structures. AB - Three basement membrane components, laminin, collagen IV, and heparan sulfate proteoglycan, were mixed and incubated at 35 degrees C for 1 h, during which a precipitate formed. Centrifugation yielded a pellet which was fixed in either potassium permanganate for ultrastructural studies, or in formaldehyde for Lowicryl embedding and immunolabeling with protein A-gold or anti-rabbit immunoglobulin-gold. Three types of structures were observed and called types A, B, and C. Type B consisted of 30-50-nm-wide strips that were dispersed or associated into a honeycomb-like pattern, but showed no similarity with basement membranes. Immunolabeling revealed that type B strips only contained heparan sulfate proteoglycan. The structure was attributed to self-assembly of this proteoglycan. Type A consisted of irregular strands of material that usually accumulated into semisolid groups. Like basement membrane, the strands contained laminin, collagen IV, and heparan sulfate proteoglycan, and, at high magnification, they appeared as a three-dimensional network of cord-like elements whose thickness averaged approximately 3 nm. But, unlike the neatly layered basement membranes, the type A strands were arranged in a random, disorderly manner. Type C structures were convoluted sheets composed of a uniform, dense, central layer which exhibited a few extensions on both surfaces and was similar in appearance and thickness to the lamina densa of basement membranes. Immunolabeling showed that laminin, collagen IV, and proteoglycan were colocalized in the type C sheets. At high magnification, the sheets appeared as a three-dimensional network of cords averaging approximately 3 nm. Hence, the organization, composition, and ultrastructure of type C sheets made them similar to the lamina densa of authentic basement membranes. PMID- 2522457 TI - Correlations between heparan sulfate metabolism and hepatoma growth. AB - A rat hepatoma cell line (Gershenson et al., Science, 170:859-861, 1970) contains a dynamic steady-state pool of free heparan sulfate (HS) chains in the nucleus that increases in amount when growing cells reach confluence (Fedarko and Conrad, J. Cell Biol., 102:587-599, 1986). In logarithmically growing cells labeled with 35SO4(2-) steady-state levels of [35SO4]HS in the nucleus are altered by a variety of culture conditions. Rapidly dividing cells (doubling time = 18-22 h) growing under optimized conditions had steady-state levels of nuclear HS within the range of 40-50 pmol 35SO4 in nuclear HS/10(6) cells. The steady-state levels of nuclear HS were lowered by several changes in culture conditions, including 1) additions of 1 mM p-nitrophenyl-beta-D-xyloside, 0.25-0.5 mM (+)-catechin, 0.5 ng/ml transforming growth factor beta, 20 ng/ml phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate, 1 mM dibutyryl cAMP, or 1 mM inositol-2-PO4; 2) decreased levels of D-glucose; or 3) deletions of serum, insulin, or inositol. In all cases lowering of the nuclear HS level was accompanied by an increase in the cell doubling times, suggesting a correlation in which nuclear HS levels must be optimized for maximal growth rates. When cells cultured under optimal growth conditions reached confluence, the level of nuclear HS increased threefold and the cells stopped dividing. The same culture conditions that lowered the steady-state levels of HS in the logarithmically growing cells prevented this rise in the nuclear HS as the cells reached confluence and resulted in loss of contact inhibition and overgrowth of the confluent cultures. These observations suggest a second correlation in which elevated nuclear HS levels are found when cell growth is inhibited at confluence; prevention of this rise results in continued growth. Consistent with this correlation between elevated nuclear HS and reduced growth rates, it was observed that addition of either 0.5 microgram/ml hydrocortisone or 0.05 microgram/ml retinoic acid to the culture medium of logarithmically growing cultures resulted in increases in steady-state levels of nuclear HS that were accompanied by increased cell doubling times. The two agents that increased the levels of nuclear HS in logarithmically growing cultures had little effect on levels of nuclear HS in confluent cells or on contact inhibition.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2522459 TI - The hepatorenal syndrome. AB - A new appreciation of the hemodynamic, hormonal, and neural derangements associated with unexplained renal failure in patients with severe liver disease has led to a reappraisal of the limited therapeutic approaches to the hepatorenal syndrome. Although the prognosis generally remains dismal, specific supportive measures are now available for the management of selected patients. PMID- 2522458 TI - Developmental regulation of calcium-binding proteins (calelectrins and calpactin I) in mammary glands. AB - We recently showed that mammary glands contain a novel class of calcium-binding proteins (CBPs) that bind to membranes in a calcium-dependent manner. We have also established that these mammary CBPs are equivalent to the calelectrins and calpactin I/p36. Since it has been suggested that these proteins might be involved in exocytosis, we examined mammary glands for these CBPs during secretory differentiation. Immunohistochemical examination showed glands from virgin animals to be rich in calelectrins and calpactin I/p36, while glands from lactating animals contained little immunoreactive material. In addition, silver staining and immunoblot estimation of the CBPs in lysates from collagenase harvested secretory epithelia showed these proteins to be significantly reduced compared to nonsecretory epithelia. Close examination of the CBP immunoreactive cells of the mammary gland shows that ductal cells are prominent in their staining and that the immunoreactive material is associated with the cell surface. Also, in juvenile glands the myoepithelial stem cells (cap cells) of the elongating end bud are devoid of the CBPs. In contrast to the in vivo data, epithelia cultivated on collagen gels demonstrate comparable levels of the CBPs in both nonsecretory and secretory monolayers. The in vivo data indicate that the CBPs are developmentally regulated during mammary gland differentiation such that secretory epithelia are essentially devoid of these novel proteins. Furthermore, a role for calelectrin and calpactin I/p36 in exocytotic casein secretion is questioned. PMID- 2522461 TI - Relation between extent of left ventricular hypertrophy and age in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. AB - This investigation was undertaken to determine whether a relation could be identified between left ventricular wall thickness and age in a large population of symptomatic patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Extent of left ventricular hypertrophy was assessed with two-dimensional echocardiography in 173 patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy who ranged in age from 21 to 74 years (mean 45) and had mild to severe cardiac symptoms. The overall study group was classified into five age subgroups (each corresponding to a decade); maximal left ventricular wall thickness and wall thickness index (a quantitative expression of the overall extent of hypertrophy) were assessed in each group. These two indexes were significantly higher in patients 21 to 30 years of age than in patients in each of the other four older age groups. The two indexes of left ventricular hypertrophy were also significantly higher in patients 31 to 40 years of age than in patients who were 61 to 74 years old. Multivariate regression analysis showed that the relation between wall thickness and age was not influenced by other clinical variables such as severity of symptoms, presence of subaortic obstruction, left ventricular cavity dimension and gender. In conclusion, the findings indicate that, in a population of symptomatic adult patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, left ventricular hypertrophy is considerably more severe in younger than in older patients and that there is an inverse relation between left ventricular wall thickness and age. PMID- 2522460 TI - Classification and validation of family climate subtypes in kibbutz fathers of disabled and nondisabled children. AB - The aim of the study was to investigate the impact of disabled children on their fathers. Perceptions of family climate, sense of coherence, and satisfaction from family life were measured among 66 fathers of disabled children and among 74 fathers with nondisabled children in an Israeli kibbutz. The fathers of disabled children showed lower sense of coherence, derived less satisfaction from family life, and viewed their families as less encouraging of personal growth among family members. Four subtypes of family climate patterns, perceived by fathers of disabled children, were identified by cluster analysis and validated by the sense of coherence and global family satisfaction measures. Cluster analysis for the fathers of nondisabled children replicated the subtypes identified. The four subtypes were conceptualized as families with a (a) personal growth orientation, (b) conflict orientation, (c) conflict avoidance orientation, and (d) recreation avoidance orientation. Significant differences were found between the subtypes with regard to the family climate variables and satisfaction and coherence measures. Results demonstrated that different patterns of family climate characterized the two groups of fathers: In almost every cluster the measures of personal growth were lower for the fathers of disabled children. PMID- 2522462 TI - Quantitative assessment of the immediate results of coronary angioplasty by myocardial contrast echocardiography. AB - A low pressure gradient across the residual lesion and a minimal percent residual stenosis are markers of a successful coronary angioplasty. A more physiologic method of assessing the results of coronary angioplasty would involve assessment of myocardial perfusion in the affected coronary bed. Contrast two-dimensional echocardiography provides information about regional myocardial perfusion. To assess the correlation between pre- to postcoronary angioplasty changes in gradient or percent stenosis and the increase in peak contrast intensity, 23 consecutive patients were studied during coronary angioplasty. In 19 of the 23 patients, the coronary angioplasty was successful and in 15 (79%) of the 19, an adequate echocardiographic study was obtained. Mild and transient side effects of echo contrast were observed in 3 of the 15 patients. The gradient across the residual lesions decreased from 52 +/- 12 to 11 +/- 4 mm Hg (mean +/- SD), the diameter of the stenotic lesion decreased from 89 +/- 10 to 25 +/- 16% and corrected peak contrast intensity (peak contrast - baseline contrast in gray level U/pixel) increased from 15 +/- 16 to 50 +/- 26. All these differences were significant at the p less than 0.001 level. Corrected peak contrast intensity correlated exponentially with the decrease in pressure gradient (r = 0.82, p less than 0.001). The correlation curve had a greater increase in peak contrast intensity at gradient decreases greater than 45 mm Hg. Corrected peak contrast intensity did not correlate with decrease in diameter of the stenotic lesion (r = 0.19). PMID- 2522463 TI - Impaired coronary vasodilator reserve in the immediate postcoronary angioplasty period: analysis of coronary artery flow velocity indexes and regional cardiac venous efflux. AB - The ratio of peak hyperemic/basal mean coronary flow velocity, an index of coronary vasodilator reserve, immediately after coronary angioplasty normalizes in less than 50% of patients. To evaluate other indexes of coronary vasodilator capacity, both intracoronary arterial velocity and cardiac venous efflux were measured at rest and during vasodilator-induced coronary hyperemia (intracoronary nitroglycerin and papaverine) before and after angioplasty in 27 patients; 17 patients had measurements of intracoronary velocity alone and 10 had thermodilution measurements of great cardiac vein flow. Coronary flow velocity responses were also measured in 6 angiographically normal segments in patients undergoing angioplasty and in 10 normal left coronary artery segments in patients with normal coronary arteries or isolated right coronary artery disease. Despite significant angiographic (72 +/- 12 to 23 +/- 11% diameter narrowing) and hemodynamic (49 +/- 12 to 19 +/- 12 mm Hg aortocoronary gradient) improvement, coronary vasodilator reserve ratios for both arterial velocity and venous flow after angioplasty were only minimally affected. Angioplasty did not significantly increase rest coronary vein flow or artery flow velocities, but did result in significantly higher papaverine responses after angioplasty. Mean and phasic coronary velocity, diastolic coronary flow velocity integral and measured great cardiac vein flow ratios were significantly lower when compared with those in 16 angiographically normal coronary artery segments. These data indicate that maximal hyperemic coronary flow velocity is increased after angioplasty, but the reserve ratios, calculated by any of several flow velocity indexes, remain minimally improved. Angiographic correlations (percent coronary diameter, absolute diameter or cross-sectional area) with variables of coronary blood flow or velocity suggest that no single variable is useful in assessing angioplasty results. However, postangioplasty arterial mean velocity and diastolic flow velocity integral are nearly normalized in most patients, whereas relative changes remain attenuated. These findings are important in studies assessing coronary vasomotor responses in patients with atherosclerotic coronary disease, especially after angioplasty. PMID- 2522464 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide levels during and after acute cardiac tamponade in dogs. AB - The ability of the atrial wall to secrete atrial natriuretic peptide was studied in eight dogs during 2 h of cardiac tamponade and for 2 h after decompression of the pericardium. Cardiac tamponade was induced by instillation of 5% dextrose in water into the pericardial cavity until aortic systolic pressure was reduced by 30% to 35%. Heart rate, cardiac output and atrial, pericardial and aortic pressures were measured at 60 and 120 min of tamponade and at 5, 30, 60, 90 and 120 min after decompression. Blood samples were withdrawn at the same time for the determination of atrial natriuretic peptide and aldosterone levels. Aortic pressure decreased significantly during tamponade and increased after decompression to near control levels. Right and left atrial pressures as well as intrapericardial pressure increased significantly during tamponade and returned to control levels after decompression. The effective transmural pressure, which was reduced during tamponade, was increased significantly at 5 min after decompression. Cardiac output was significantly reduced during tamponade and returned to pretamponade levels after decompression. Over the total experimental period, no significant changes in the levels of atrial natriuretic peptide were observed, whereas aldosterone increased significantly. It is concluded that the increased atrial pressure observed during cardiac tamponade did not stimulate the secretion of atrial natriuretic peptide. Furthermore, atrial distension observed immediately after decompression was not sufficient or of long enough duration to induce measurable increases in atrial natriuretic peptide levels. Finally, the secondary hyperaldosteronism did not activate atrial natriuretic peptide secretion either during cardiac tamponade or after decompression. PMID- 2522465 TI - Intravascular stenting for prevention of restenosis: in search of the magic bullet. PMID- 2522466 TI - Importance of balloon size in coronary angioplasty. AB - The effect of balloon size on the success of coronary angioplasty was studied to develop quantitative criteria for optimal selection of balloon size. Coronary dimensions of 165 stenotic lesions were measured by computer-assisted cinevideodensitometry in 120 patients who had undergone angioplasty with a balloon selected by visual estimates. Cross-sectional areas and diameters of normal and stenotic arterial segments were measured before and after angioplasty by a previously validated cinevideodensitometric technique. The diameter of the inflated balloon compared with that of the normal arterial segment was expressed as a ratio for sizing balloons. Oversized balloons with a ratio greater than 1.3 (n = 35) caused a high (37%) incidence of dissection, with three severely compromised arterial lumens. Undersized balloons with a ratio less than 0.9 (n = 29) often resulted in significant (greater than 50% diameter stenosis) residual stenotic lesions (21%) and a significantly (p less than 0.05) higher rate of repeat angioplasty for restenosis. Selection of balloon sizes with ratios in the 0.9 to 1.3 range (n = 101) resulted in a low (4%) incidence of dissection with few patients (3%) having significant residual stenosis. Mean residual stenosis (percent diameter reduction) was most severe for undersized (35.0 +/- 18%) or oversized (23.1 +/- 19%) balloons and least severe for balloons with a ratio of 0.9 to 1.3 (18.7 +/- 14%) (p less than 0.001). Repeat angioplasty for restenosis was more frequently required (p less than 0.05) for lesions dilated with undersized balloons. Thus, selection of angioplasty balloons that approximate or slightly exceed the diameter of the normal arterial diameter yields optimal angiographic results with minimal dissections and minimal residual stenotic lesions. PMID- 2522467 TI - Coronary angioplasty as primary therapy for acute myocardial infarction 6 to 48 hours after symptom onset: report of an initial experience. AB - Recent randomized trials in acute myocardial infarction suggest that infarct size reduction need not be achieved for intravenous streptokinase to improve patient survival. If this is the case, attempts to achieve late revascularization may be justified. To assess the results of late primary coronary angioplasty performed in the setting of acute myocardial infarction, the clinical and angiographic data as well as hospital outcome of 139 consecutive patients treated with coronary angioplasty without prior thrombolytic therapy 6 to 48 h after the onset of chest pain (late group) were compared with those of 117 patients treated with primary angioplasty less than 6 h after the onset of chest pain (early group); time to angioplasty was assessed as a covariate of survival. In the 139 patients treated greater than or equal to 6 h after the onset of chest pain, the mean age (+/- SD) was 57 +/- 12 years and the median time to angioplasty was 15 h; 61% had multivessel disease, 14% were in cardiogenic shock and the mean left ventricular ejection fraction was 44 +/- 12%. Angioplasty was successful (final diameter stenosis less than 70% and Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction [TIMI] flow grade greater than or equal to 2) in 78% of patients. Successful angioplasty was associated with a 5.5% in-hospital mortality rate, whereas unsuccessful angioplasty was associated with a 43% hospital mortality rate (p less than 0.001). Multivariate testing in all patients identified four independent predictors of in-hospital death: cardiogenic shock (p less than 0.001), unsuccessful angioplasty (p = 0.001), ejection fraction less than or equal to 30% (p = 0.002) and patient age (p = 0.004).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2522468 TI - Coronary angioplasty in acute myocardial infarction: should it be done? To whom? When? PMID- 2522469 TI - Myocardial reperfusion: is it ever too late? PMID- 2522470 TI - Cardiac complications in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS): a review. AB - Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) has become an increasingly important health problem worldwide. This review focuses on its cardiac complications. The key elements in the clinical syndrome are the opportunistic infections and the cancer that occur as a by-product of the immunodeficiency process. However, as early diagnosis, aggressive therapy and better supportive care become increasingly available, with consequently longer survival rates, cardiac lesions other than those due to opportunistic infections or malignancy should be seen. Cardiac complications are described in terms of the pathologic lesions, the clinical manifestations that ensue as a result of the pathologic lesions and the cardiac abnormalities that can occur from administration of the various therapeutic agents in the syndrome. PMID- 2522471 TI - Thermal compression and molding of atherosclerotic vascular tissue with use of radiofrequency energy: implications for radiofrequency balloon angioplasty. AB - The combined delivery of pressure and thermal energy may effectively remodel intraluminal atherosclerotic plaque and fuse intimal tears. To test these hypotheses with use of a non-laser thermal energy source, radiofrequency energy was delivered to postmortem human atherosclerotic vessels from a metal "hot-tip" catheter, block-mounted bipolar electrodes and from a prototype radiofrequency balloon catheter. Sixty-two radiofrequency doses delivered from a metal electrode tip produced dose-dependent ablation of atherosclerotic plaque, ranging from clean and shallow craters with histologic evidence of thermal compression at doses less than 40 J to tissue charring and vaporization at higher (greater than 80 J) doses. Lesion dimensions ranged between 3.14 and 3.79 mm in diameter and 0.20 and 0.47 mm in depth. Tissue perforation was not observed. To test the potential for radiofrequency fusion of intimal tears, 5 atm of pressure and 200 J radiofrequency energy were delivered from block-mounted bipolar electrodes to 48 segments of human atherosclerotic aorta, which had been manually separated into intima-media and media-adventitial layers. Significantly stronger tissue fusion resulted (28.5 +/- 3.3 g) with radiofrequency compared with that with pressure alone (4.8 +/- 0.26 g; p less than 0.0001). A prototype radiofrequency balloon catheter was used to deliver 3 atm of balloon pressure with or without 200 J radiofrequency energy to 20 postmortem human atherosclerotic arterial segments. In 10 of 10 radiofrequency-treated vessels, thermal "molding" of both normal and atherosclerotic vessel wall segments resulted with increased luminal diameter and histologic evidence of medial myocyte damage.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2522472 TI - "Crackers, breakers, stretchers, drillers, scrapers, shavers, burners, welders and melters"--the future treatment of atherosclerotic coronary artery disease? A clinical-morphologic assessment. AB - Although various public health preventive efforts and prescribed pharmacologic treatment methods will have long-term benefits in the reduction of coronary artery atherosclerosis and subsequent cardiac events, the immediate and short term future in the treatment of coronary artery disease will focus on several interventional devices designed to remodel or remove causes of acute and chronic coronary artery obstruction. Certain clinical-morphologic aspects of these interventional devices or techniques that result in remodeling of the coronary lumen shape (balloon angioplasty, thermal probes, intravascular stents) or removal of obstructing material (lasers, atherectomy devices) are reviewed. Two new areas in the pathology of atherosclerotic plaque (plaque fissures, eccentric plaque) and their clinical relevance in coronary heart disease are described. PMID- 2522473 TI - Hymenoptera venom immunotherapy. I. Induction of T cell-mediated immunity by honeybee venom immunotherapy: relationships with specific antibody responses. AB - The specific cell-mediated and humoral immune responses of 14 children allergic to honeybee venom were studied. An 8-day rush venom immunotherapy induced an increase in T proliferative (p less than 0.04) and T suppressive (p less than 0.003) cell-specific activities. Antibody variations, an increase in specific IgG4 (p not equal to 0.05), and a decrease in specific IgE (p less than 0.01) were observed 1 year later. Initial high T suppressive cell activity prevents T proliferative cell increase during rush venom immunotherapy. High initial levels of specific IgG1 and specific IgG4 have opposing effects on the increase in T suppressive cell activity, the former being positively correlated with intensive increase (r = 0.840; p less than 0.005), the latter negatively with T suppressive cell increase (r = -0.709; p less than 0.001). These data indicate that there are interrelationships between the cell-mediated immunity and the antibody responses in honeybee allergy. PMID- 2522474 TI - Hymenoptera venom immunotherapy. II. T proliferative and T suppressive activities induced by Vespula immunotherapy: effects on long-term antibody responses. AB - Thirty-five children who had exhibited major clinical reactions to yellow jacket stings were desensitized during an 8-day rush immunotherapy (RIT). Maintenance treatment was continued for at least 1 year in all cases and for 2 years in 21 cases. Blood samples, obtained before, during, and after RIT, were analyzed for specific T proliferative (TP) and T suppressive (TS) cell activities and for specific IgE, IgG1, and IgG4 levels. TS and TP cell activities increased during RIT (p less than 0.001) and remained elevated throughout the 2-year follow-up. There were transient rises in specific IgG1 and IgE during RIT, but the levels of both decreased thereafter. Specific IgG4 increased throughout the follow-up period. The data indicate that the levels of specific IgE and specific IgG1 were correlated with TP cell responses (inducers) and TS cells responses (suppressors) and therefore might be controlled by them; data also suggest that TS cell responses should play a role in the IgG4 response. These changes in TS and TP cell responses and antibody responses have been incorporated into a model of antibody-response regulation by cell-mediated immunity in this type of allergy. PMID- 2522475 TI - Pulmonary effects of sulfur dioxide exposure and ipratropium bromide pretreatment in adults with nonallergic asthma. AB - In this study we examined the potential short-term effect of sulfur dioxide (SO2) on total respiratory resistance and forced expiratory volume in patients with nonallergic asthma. A group of nine adult subjects with nonallergic asthma, 55 years of age or older, were exposed to SO2 at 0, 0.5, and 1.0 ppm for 20 minutes at rest followed by 10 minutes during light-moderate exercise. The measures of pulmonary function assessed were FEV1, specific total respiratory resistance (SRT), and maximal expiratory flow rates at 50% (Vmax50) and 75% (Vmax75) of expired vital capacity. Measurements were made before exposure to SO2 (baseline), postresting exposure, postexercising exposure, and at 30 minutes thereafter (recovery). Repeat measure analysis of variance revealed a statistically significant dose-response effect of SO2 inhalation on FEV1 (p = 0.008), SRT (p = 0.033), Vmax50 (p = 0.017), and Vmax75 (p = 0.048). Eight subjects had repeat exposure to SO2 at 1.0 ppm after treatment with either placebo or ipratropium bromide, 60 micrograms by metered-dose inhaler. Inpratropium bromide treatment, compared to placebo treatment, resulted in a statistically significant improvement in all baseline measures of pulmonary function: FEV1 (p = 0.017), SRT (p = 0.027), Vmax50 (p = 0.018), and Vmax75 (p = 0.035). However, this drug did not significantly alter the proportionate change in pulmonary function caused by SO2 inhalation in these subjects. These findings indicate that adults with nonallergic asthma are sensitive to short-term low-level SO2 exposure and that treatment with 60 micrograms of ipratropium bromide causes significant bronchodilation but does not protect, completely, these patients from the effect of SO2 inhalation. PMID- 2522476 TI - Pulse pressure and echocardiographic findings in essential hypertension. AB - Blood pressure, carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity and cardiac mass as judged on echocardiography were evaluated in 11 normal subjects and 36 patients with sustained essential hypertension of similar age. The hypertensive patients were divided into two groups of similar age, weight, height and mean arterial pressure: patients in the first group (Group I) had a pulse pressure inferior to 60 mmHg and in the second group (Group II) had a pulse pressure equal or superior to this value. Group II patients had significant higher values for cardiac mass (148.8 +/- 44.3 vs 116.3 +/- 19.8 g/m2; P less than 0.01) (+/- 1 s.d.) than Group I, while mean arterial pressure and pulse wave velocity were similar in the two groups. Stroke volume was significantly higher in Group II than in normal subjects (99.5 +/- 17.1 versus 82.7 +/- 16.9 ml; P less than 0.05). The study findings suggested that the increased pulse pressure in hypertensive patients might influence the development of cardiac hypertrophy independently of mean arterial pressure and aortic distensibility. The increased pulse pressure could reflect a disturbance between ventricular ejection and impedance affecting the ventricle with a resulting increase in pulsatile energy losses and further increase in cardiac mass. PMID- 2522477 TI - Structural change in the rat hindlimb during deoxycorticosterone acetate hypertension; its reversibility and prevention. AB - This study measured the time course of the development and reversal of structural change in resistance vessels during deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA) hypertension and after cessation of DOCA in Wistar rats by hindquarter perfusion. The relationship of structural change to blood pressure was further assessed by preventing hypertension during DOCA treatment with hydralazine. Blood pressure rose progressively during DOCA treatment reaching 198.6 +/- 2.0 (s.e.) mmHg at 10 weeks. Five weeks after the cessation of DOCA, when it had been given for 2 weeks, hypertension reversed completely but after 4, 8 and 10 weeks of treatment, post-DOCA reversal of hypertension was only partial. Hindquarter perfusion pressure at maximum vasodilatation and maximum vasoconstriction increased with increasing duration of DOCA treatment and reversed 5 weeks post-DOCA to a similar degree to the blood pressure with only partial reversal of both perfusion pressures and hypertension when DOCA had been given for 8 and 10 weeks. Hydralazine did not completely prevent heart hypertrophy in the DOCA rats and caused some cardiac hypertrophy in the control ('vehicle' only) rats, although it both prevented hypertension and evidence of vascular structural change in DOCA rats. PMID- 2522478 TI - Development of blood pressure in spontaneously hypertensive rats after withdrawal of long-term treatment related to vascular structure. AB - We have studied the effects of long-term treatment with different antihypertensive drugs on blood pressure and mesenteric resistance vessel structure of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), both during treatment and after withdrawal of treatment. Young SHR were treated from 4 to 24 weeks with five different drugs: perindopril (1.5 mg/kg per day), captopril (60 mg/kg per day), hydralazine (25 mg/kg per day), isradipine (42 mg/kg per day) and metoprolol (130 mg/kg per day). At 24 weeks, 24-h mean blood pressures (MBP), measured invasively, were 121 mmHg (perindopril), 137 mmHg (captopril), 140 mmHg (hydralazine), 149 mmHg (isradipine) and 146 mmHg (metoprolol), compared to control values of 177 mmHg (SHR) and 132 mmHg (Wistar-Kyoto rats, WKY). Mesenteric resistance vessel structure, measured as media:lumen ratio (m:l), was also reduced to different extents: to WKY-level by perindopril (m:l = 4.4%), to midway between SHR- and WKY-levels by captopril, hydralazine and isradipine (m:l = 5.9%), and not at all by metoprolol (m:l = 6.8%). When treatment was discontinued, low MBP (ca 151 mmHg) persisted for 12 weeks in rats treated with the angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (perindopril and captopril), but rose rapidly in rats which had received the other treatments. At 3-12 weeks after withdrawal of treatment vascular structure was closely correlated with the blood pressure expected from the SHR- and WKY-control values, as were the left ventricle: body weight ratios. The results suggest that the ability of a drug to control vascular structure during treatment is not in itself a predictor of a persistent effect on blood pressure after withdrawal of treatment.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2522480 TI - A monoclonal antibody recognizing 68- to 75-kilodalton protein(s) associated with the human IL-1 receptor. AB - We produced an IgM mAb termed 4.9 against an EBV-containing lymphoblastoid cell line, termed 3B6. This mAb reacted with both various B and T cell lines such as HSB2 cells, with an NK-like cell line YT-C3 cells, and with human fibroblast MCR 5 cells. It also reacted with normal resting peripheral B lymphocytes, monocytes, and anti-CD2- or anti-CD3-activated T lymphocytes. The 4.9 mAb immunoprecipitated two bands estimated to be of Mr 68 and 75 kDa from iodinated 3B6 cells. The 4.9 mAb inhibited the proliferation of peripheral T lymphocytes induced either by anti-CD3 mAb or anti-CD2 mAb. The 4.9 mAb inhibited also the proliferation of murine thymocytes both in the presence of PHA and IL-1 and the proliferation of human fibroblasts in the presence of IL-1. Radiolabeled IL-1 binding on 3B6 cells revealed two types of IL-1 binding sites with high and low affinity for IL-1 (300 sites/cell with a Kd of 6 x 10(-11)M and 6000 sites/cell with a Kd of 3 x 10( 9)M). On both 3B6 and YT-C3 cells, mAb 4.9 inhibited specifically the binding of 125I-labeled rIL-1, alpha or beta, whereas the irrelevant IgM mAb did not. Conversely, rIL-1, alpha or beta, could inhibit specifically the binding of radioiodinated 4.9 mAb to 3B6 or YT-C3 cells, whereas rIL-2, rIFN, or the irrelevant IgM mAb were ineffective. 125I-4.9 mAb bound 3B6 cells with an association constant (Ka) of 2 x 10(8)/M and demonstrated 6000 binding sites/cell. We thus conclude that mAb 4.9 recognizes a protein complex (68 to 75 kDa) closely associated with the IL-1R. PMID- 2522479 TI - Requirements for suppressor cell activation. Role of accessory cells. AB - In the 4-hydroxy-3-nitrophenyl acetyl (NP) suppressor system, third order suppressor cells (Ts3) subset of suppressor cells is generated after Ag priming, but, in order to express suppressor activity, these cells need to be further activated or triggered with a specific second order suppressor factor. By in vitro activation of Ts3-containing lymph node cells or a pTs3 hybridoma we now show that macrophages are also required for Ts3 activation. In addition, we demonstrate that IJ genetic restrictions control this activation process. Furthermore, we directly demonstrate Ts3 activation using cloned macrophage hybridoma cells. To further investigate the interactions between Ts3 cells and the accessory cells involved in their activation, we attempted to block the second order suppressor factor mediated activation of Ts3 cells with antibodies. The activation of Ts3 cells can be blocked by the addition of anti-IJ, anti-IJ idiotype or anti-NPb idiotype antibodies, but not by anti-CD8, anti-IA, or anti IE antibodies. Anti-IJ mAb blocked Ts3 activation at the lymphocyte level whereas anti-IJ idiotype blocked activation at the accessory cell level. Finally we tested, whether these antibodies can also directly activate primed Ts3 cells. We demonstrate that cross-linked anti-IJ, anti-NPb and anti-CD3 antibodies can activate Ts3 cells. The results are discussed in terms of receptor-ligand structures on Ts and accessory cells which are required for the activation of Ts3 cells. PMID- 2522481 TI - Characterization of a novel low affinity receptor for IFN-gamma on adherent human monocytes by radioligand binding studies and chemical cross-linking. AB - Freshly isolated monocytes in suspension express 2000 to 4000 high affinity receptors for IFN-gamma. Because monocytes change phenotypically as they migrate out of the circulation and adhere to extracellular matrix, modulation of the expression of IFN-gamma receptors may occur. In order to determine if adherence alone modulates the receptor for IFN-gamma, we have studied receptor expression in adherent human peripheral blood monocytes. Elutriation-purified monocytes were allowed to adhere to polystyrene overnight at 37 degrees C. These cells now expressed 1 to 2 x 10(5) low affinity (Ka = 10(8) liters/M) receptors for [125I]rIFN-gamma. Binding to this receptor was specific and saturable. The expression of these receptors occurred rapidly (within 3 h) after adherence and was not inhibited by cycloheximide treatment. Binding to the receptor was abrogated by treating cells with trypsin, but was enhanced after treatment with alkaline protease or proteinase K. mAb against the high affinity receptor did not block binding to the low affinity receptor on adherent cells. The low affinity receptor transduced a signal to the cell as measured by the IFN-gamma-induced enhancement in FcR for human IgG1. The structure of the receptor on adherent cells was investigated by chemical cross-linking techniques. A receptor [125I]rIFN-gamma complex was observed by SDS-PAGE to have a Mr of 180,000 to 200,000. Reduction of this complex with 2-ME resulted in the loss of the high Mr complex and the appearance of a doublet of lower Mr of 68,000 and 82,000. In contrast, cross-linking of monocytes in suspension yielded a complex of 110,000 to 120,000 Mr, which was unchanged upon reduction. Upon adherence, human monocytes express large numbers of a novel receptor for rIFN-gamma which is capable of stimulating the cell. This receptor appears to be composed of at least two components which are disulfide linked and structurally differs from the high affinity receptor on nonadherent monocytes. PMID- 2522482 TI - The role of IL-1 in the corticotropin-releasing factor and arginine- vasopressin induced secretion of immunoreactive beta-endorphin by human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. AB - Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) and arginine vasopressin (AVP) stimulate the secretion of beta-endorphin by human PBMC. It is shown here that peripheral blood B cells are responsible for the production of beta-endorphin after culture with CRF and AVP. The presence of CD14+ monocytes is, however, a prerequisite for the enhancing activity of CRF and AVP. The data presented here show that rIL-1 beta can replace CRF and AVP, whereas a mAb directed against IL-1 abrogates the response to CRF and AVP. These results indicate that IL-1 mediates the effect of CRF and AVP on beta-endorphin production by human PBMC. PMID- 2522484 TI - Human atrial natriuretic factor (ANF). Characterisation of a monoclonal antibody panel and its use in radioimmunoassay. AB - The production of nine monoclonal antibodies to human atrial natriuretic factor (ANF 1-28) is described. All possible combinations of two antibodies failed to reveal any which could simultaneously bind ANF. Studies with ANF analogues and the antibodies having the three highest affinity values (KD = 5, 25 and 21 pM) indicated that the antibodies are directed to the central portion of the antigen molecule. The highest affinity antibody was able to replace polyclonal antisera in the radioimmunoassay of ANF in extracts of plasma. PMID- 2522483 TI - Fc gamma 2b receptor-mediated phagocytosis by a murine macrophage-like cell line (P388D1) and peritoneal resident macrophages. Up-regulation by the inhibitors of phospholipase A2 and cyclooxygenase. AB - The mechanisms of Fc gamma R-mediated phagocytosis of immune complexes were investigated by the use of a murine macrophage-like cell line (P388D1) and murine peritoneal resident macrophages. About 40 to 80% of P388D1 cells phagocytosed SRBC coated with IgG2a subclass anti-SRBC mAb (EA2a) within 60 min, whereas only 10 to 20% of the cells phagocytosed EA2b during the same period. The treatment of P388D1 cells with inhibitors of phospholipase A2 (p-bromophenacylbromide, EGTA, or dexamethasone) or of cyclooxygenase (indomethacin or aspirin) significantly promoted the Fc gamma 2bR-mediated phagocytosis of EA2b, but did not affect the Fc gamma 2aR-mediated phagocytosis of EA2a. These results suggest that the activation of phospholipase A2 activity associated with Fc gamma 2bR may lead to the inhibition of phagocytosis of EA2b. This inhibition appeared to be due to the blockade of the interaction of Fc gamma 2bR with various cytoskeletal components, because the association of Fc gamma 2bR and these cytoskeletal components, which could be eliminated by cytochalasin D, was found to be increased by the inhibition of phospholipase A2 activity. PMID- 2522485 TI - Inservice education program in the ophthalmologist's office. PMID- 2522486 TI - Questions and answers about certification. PMID- 2522487 TI - Lyme disease. PMID- 2522488 TI - A scientific basis for your research: the literature review. PMID- 2522489 TI - Are registered care technologists (RCT's) the answer? PMID- 2522490 TI - Selenium and the immune response: 1. Modulation of alloreactive human lymphocyte functions in vitro. AB - A role for the dietary trace mineral element selenium in the reduction of cancer incidence has been documented in numerous epidemiological and experimental studies. The precise mechanism of this antitumor effect is not well understood, but published data suggest that both inhibition of tumor cell growth and enhancement of host immunity are likely to be involved. In this study we report that selenium at physiologic concentrations can inhibit human lymphocyte proliferation in response to irradiated tumor cells in mixed lymphocyte/tumor cell cultures (MLTC). In addition, we demonstrate that the various lymphocyte functional activities generated in these cultures exhibit different levels of sensitivity to the effects of selenium. The generation of suppressor-cell activity in MLTC was strongly inhibited by the presence of physiologic levels of selenium, while the development of cytotoxic T-lymphocyte activity in identical cultures was not affected by selenium. Production of interleukin-2 in these cultures showed an intermediate sensitivity to the effects of selenium. Thus, selenium appears to be capable of selectively regulating the generation of functional lymphocyte subsets in vitro. Such selective regulation could explain the published effects of selenium on immunity and would be consistent with a role for immunity in the observed reduction of cancer incidence associated with elevated selenium intake. PMID- 2522492 TI - Differential induction of hematopoiesis and immune suppressor cells in the bone marrow versus in the spleen by Lewis lung carcinoma variants. AB - Mice bearing large (greater than or equal to 3 g) metastatic and nonmetastatic Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) tumors were studied to determine if the tumor variants differentially induced bone marrow versus splenic hematopoiesis and the appearance of hematopoiesis-associated immune suppressor cells. The metastatic LLC-C3 and nonmetastatic LLC-C8 tumors were equal in their stimulatory effects in vivo on both the number of bone marrow myeloid progenitor cells (CFU) and the appearance of bone marrow immune suppressor cells. In contrast, the tumor variants differed in their effects on the spleen, with the metastatic tumors causing a more pronounced increase in the number of nucleated cells and CFU, a reduced blastogenic responsiveness to concanavalin (Con-A), and an increased suppressor cell activity than nonmetastatic LLC-C8 tumors. The splenic suppressor cells of mice bearing large LLC-C3 tumors resembled the bone marrow suppressor cells which we previously described (Young et al.: Cancer Res. 47, 100, 1987) in that they were nonadherent to nylon wool, sensitive to treatment with L-leucine methyl ester, insensitive to treatment with complement and Thy-1.2, MG-1.2, asialo-GM1, or anti-IgM antibodies, and mediated their suppression through a mechanism which was only partially indomethacin sensitive. The stimulatory effects on hematopoiesis and suppressor cells by the LLC variant tumors may have been mediated by the tumor-derived colony stimulating factor (CSF) activities. Bone marrow cell proliferation and colony formation were stimulated in vitro by culture supernatants of metastatic LLC-C3 cells and, to a lesser degree, of nonmetastatic LLC-C8 cells. These colony-stimulating factor (CSF)-containing supernatants also induced normal bone marrow cells to become immune suppressive. In contrast, supernatants of only LLC-C3 cells, and not of LLC-C8 cells, stimulated in vitro growth of splenic CFU from LLC-C3-bearing mice; spleen cells from normal mice and from LLC-C8 bearers were unresponsive to supernatants of the LLC variants. These results suggest that CSF produced by either the metastatic LLC-C3 or the nonmetastatic LLC-C8 tumors could concurrently stimulate bone marrow hematopoiesis and the appearance of bone marrow suppressor cells. However, the metastatic LLC-C3 tumor cells, and not the nonmetastatic LLC-C8 cells, could also cause expansion of progenitor cells and hematopoiesis to the spleen and, consequently, induce the appearance in the spleen of hematopoiesis-associated immune suppressor cells. PMID- 2522491 TI - Enhancement of the expression of activation markers on human peripheral blood mononuclear cells by in vitro culture with retinoids and carotenoids. AB - Retinoids (retinol, retinal, retinoic acid, retinyl beta-glucuronide, and 13-cis retinoic acid) and carotenoids (beta-carotene and canthaxanthin) were evaluated for their immunomodulatory effects on human peripheral blood T-lymphocyte subpopulations and natural killer (NK) cells. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from healthy young volunteers were isolated and incubated for 72 hours at various levels of retinoids and carotenoids including a physiological concentration (10(-8) M). Expression of surface antigens for total T cells, T helper and T-suppressor cells, and activation markers (transferrin receptor, HLA Dr antigen, and interleukin 2 receptor) were analyzed with an EPICS V flow cytometer. Retinoic acid and 13-cis retinoic acid (13-cRA) produced significant increases in the percentage of cells with markers for total T-helper cells, with a minimal effect on percentage of lymphocytes with markers for NK cells. However, beta-carotene (BC), canthaxanthin (CTX), and retinyl beta-glucuronide (RBG) dramatically increased the percentage of PBMC with markers for NK cells and produced a smaller increase in lymphocytes with surface antigens identifying them as T-helper cells. Furthermore, retinol and retinal did not show significant change either in the percentage of lymphocytes with markers for T-helper cells or in the helper/suppressor ratio. An increase in the expression of HLA-Dr antigen and transferrin receptors was greater when cells were incubated with 13-cRA than with either BC, CTX, or RBG, while carotenoids produced a greater increase in the expression of IL-2 receptors than 13-cRA. Our study indicates that both retinoids and carotenoids might be activating different subpopulations of immune cells. PMID- 2522493 TI - Chiropractic chronic low back pain sufferers and self-report assessment methods. Part I. A reliability study of the Visual Analogue Scale, the Pain Drawing and the McGill Pain Questionnaire. AB - Comprehensive assessment of the problems of low back pain sufferers requires that (in addition to objective measures and clinicians' judgments) an examination of subjective perception of their difficulties should also be made. Subjective measurement has, in the past, presented several problems to researchers. However, in recent years, several new methods of exploring individual reactions to pain and disability have been developed. These assessment measures have, in the main, been carefully explored with severe chronic, acutely ill and surgical patients, but they have not been shown to be appropriate for use with mild chronic low back pain sufferers. This study examines the reliability of several widely used self report measures. In general, the measures were shown to have acceptable levels of reliability for use with this population, although recommendations for caution in the use of the pain drawing is urged. PMID- 2522494 TI - Inhibitory effects of corticotrophin-releasing factor and beta-endorphin on LH and FSH secretion in the lactating rat. AB - The roles of corticotrophin-releasing factor (CRF) and beta-endorphin in the suppression of LH and FSH secretion during lactation were investigated using ovariectomized lactating rats separated from their litters overnight. Within 1 h of returning the pups to their mothers a marked fall in plasma LH concentration and a large increase in plasma prolactin were noted. However, resuckling caused no significant change in plasma concentration of FSH until 12 h after the return of the litter but a significant decline occurred thereafter. Twenty-four hours after removal of the litter, a single i.v. injection of 200 microliters anti-LHRH serum caused similar changes in plasma concentrations of LH and FSH observed in nursing rats during suckling. These results suggest that the suckling stimulus itself is responsible for the suppression of LH as well as FSH, via inhibition of the secretion of LHRH. Twenty-four hours after removal of the litter, a single intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injection of either 10 micrograms CRF or beta endorphin resulted in a rapid decrease in plasma LH. Only beta-endorphin caused a marked increase in plasma levels of prolactin within 1 h whereas FSH was less affected by either hormone. Repeated i.c.v. administration of 10 micrograms CRF or beta-endorphin at 6-h intervals caused a prolonged inhibition of LH as well as FSH secretion during 48 h, with beta-endorphin being less effective than CRF. These results demonstrate that the suckling stimulus alone suppressed the secretion of both LH and FSH, and suggest that this effect may be mediated by the inhibition of LHRH secretion from the hypothalamus.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2522495 TI - Interleukin 1 production during accessory cell-dependent mitogenesis of T lymphocytes. AB - We have studied the control and significance of IL-1 production in human leukocyte cultures during accessory cell-dependent, T lymphocyte mitogenesis using sensitive bioassays and immunolabeling techniques. In primary antigen dependent systems like the MLR, IL-1 production was not detected in accessory cells (monocytes, dendritic cells) or T cells, suggesting that it is not an early product in these responses. However, monocytes could be induced to make IL-1 after interacting with sensitized antigen-specific T cells. Both alloreactive T cell clones or freshly prepared lymphoblasts induced IL-1 provided the monocytes carried the HLA-DR antigens to which the T cells were initially sensitized. Even in these circumstances, dendritic cells and B cells failed to make IL-1. The mechanism whereby activated T cells induce IL-1 in monocytes was explored. Supernatants from cocultures of monocytes and T cells or several recombinant cytokines induced little or no IL-1. A more potent antigen independent pathway of IL-1 induction was identified. IL-1 could be induced in third-party HLA-DR nonspecific monocytes in cocultures of alloreactive T cell clones or blasts and HLA-DR-specific dendritic cells. The induction was factor independent since dendritic cells and T blasts placed in a chamber separate from third-party monocytes by a semipermeable membrane did not induce monocyte IL-1. These results suggest that a cell contact mechanism rather than an IL-1-inducing factor leads to IL-1 production. The role of IL-1 in T cell proliferation was tested with a polyclonal anti-IL-1 antibody. The antibody failed to block the proliferation of primary T cells, or alloreactive T cell clones and blasts stimulated with HLA specific monocytes or dendritic cells, even though IL-1 in the medium was neutralized. PMID- 2522496 TI - A small number of anti-CD3 molecules on dendritic cells stimulate DNA synthesis in mouse T lymphocytes. AB - Resting T cells enter cell cycle when challenged with anti-CD3 mAb and accessory cells that bear required Fc receptors (FcR). Presentation of anti-CD3 is thought to be a model for antigens presented by accessory cells to the TCR complex. We have obtained evidence that the number of anti-CD3 molecules that are associated with the accessory cell can be very small. We first noticed that thymic dendritic cells and cultured, but not freshly isolated, epidermal Langerhans cells (LC) were active accessory cells for responses to anti-CD3 mAb. DNA synthesis was abrogated by a mAb to the FcR but not by mAb to other molecules used in clonally specific antigen recognition, i.e., class I and II MHC products or CD4 and CD8. The requisite FcR could be identified on the LC but in small numbers. Freshly isolated LC had 20,000 FcR per cell, while the more active cultured LC had only 2,000 sites, using 125I-anti-FcR mAb in quantitative binding studies. Individual LC had similar levels of FcR, as evidenced with a sensitive FACS. FcR could not be detected on T cells or within the dendritic cell cytoplasm, at the start of or during the mitogenesis response. When the response was assessed at 30 h with single cell assays, at least 20 T cells became lymphoblasts per added LC, and at least 8 T cells were synthesizing DNA while in contact with the LC in discrete cell clusters. To the extent that anti-CD3 represents a polyclonal model for antigen presentation to specific T cell clones, these results suggest two conclusions. First, only 200-300 molecules of ligand on dendritic cells may be required to trigger a T cell. Second, the maturation of LC in culture entails "sensitizing" functions other than ligand presentation (anti-CD3 on FcR) to clonotypic T cell receptors. PMID- 2522498 TI - Recombinant interleukin 7, pre-B cell growth factor, has costimulatory activity on purified mature T cells. AB - The activation of highly purified murine peripheral T cells in vitro by Con A is dependent on a co-stimulatory signal that is not IL-1 or IL-2. Previous evidence has demonstrated that the recently defined lymphokine IL-6 could provide costimulatory activity for purified T cells cultured with Con A. In this report we demonstrate that IL-7 also has potent co-stimulatory activity for purified murine T cells, as well as its previously described ability to support the growth of pre-B cells in Witte-Whitlock cultures. When rIL-7 was added to cultures of purified T cells together with Con A, it induced the expression of IL-2 receptors, IL-2 production, and consequently proliferation. In addition, IL-7 exhibited the same magnitude of activity in this assay as IL-6. Also, anti-IL-6 antibody which inhibited the IL-6-induced response had no effect on the IL-7 response. Thus, IL-7 does not act by inducing IL-6. These results demonstrate that IL-7, a potent growth stimulus for pre-B cells, also has a role in T cell activation. PMID- 2522497 TI - Presentation of exogenous protein antigens by dendritic cells to T cell clones. Intact protein is presented best by immature, epidermal Langerhans cells. AB - The capacity of dendritic cells to present protein antigens has been studied with two MHC class II-restricted, myoglobin-specific, T cell clones. Spleen dendritic cells and cultured epidermal Langerhans cells (LC) presented native myoglobin weakly and often not at all. These same populations were powerful stimulators of allogeneic T cells in the primary MLR. Freshly isolated LC were in contrast very active in presenting proteins to T cell clones but were weak stimulators of the MLR. Both fresh and cultured LC could present specific peptide fragments of myoglobin to the clones. These results suggest that dendritic cells in nonlymphoid tissues like skin can act as sentinels for presenting antigens in situ, their accessory function developing in two phases. First antigens are captured and appropriately presented. Further handling of antigen then is downregulated while the cells acquire strong sensitizing activity for the growth and function of resting T lymphocytes. The potent MLR stimulating activity of cultured epidermal LC and lymphoid dendritic cells probably reflects prior handling of antigens leading to the formation of allogeneic MHC-peptide complexes. PMID- 2522499 TI - The generation of antigen-specific, major histocompatibility complex-restricted cytotoxic T lymphocytes of the CD4+ phenotype. Enhancement by the cutaneous administration of interleukin 2. AB - We have examined an in vitro system in which PBMC from purified protein derivative (PPD)-sensitized patients generate CTL after in vitro activation with antigen. These cells selectively destroy mycobacterial antigen PPD-pulsed monocyte targets. These CTL are of the CD4+ phenotype and exhibit MHC class II restriction. After exposure to antigen these cells require 5-7 d for maximal development, whereas, a separate antigen-independent population is generated within 3-4 d. CD8+ cells are poorly, if not at all, cytotoxic under similar conditions. Cells with properties of the NK and LAK lineage are also present in these cultures and kill other specific targets. Human rIL-2 was injected into the skin of lepromatous patients at 10-micrograms doses, given at 48-h intervals, for three doses. Peripheral blood cells obtained 8-14 d after the initiation of IL-2 injection demonstrated enhanced antigen-dependent destruction of monocyte targets. The efficacy of antigen-dependent and -independent populations and their amplification by IL-2-dependent mechanisms is discussed in terms of the local destruction of parasitized macrophages and the subsequent disposal of M. leprae. PMID- 2522502 TI - Misinformation and memory: the creation of new memories. AB - Misleading information presented after an event can lead people to erroneous reports of that misinformation. Different process histories can be responsible for the same erroneous report in different people. We argue that the relative proportion of times that the different process histories are responsible for erroneous reporting will depend on the conditions of acquisition, retention, and retrieval of information. Given the conditions typical of most misinformation experiments, it appears that misinformation acceptance plays a major role, memory impairment plays some role, and pure guessing plays little or no role. Moreover, we argue that misinformation acceptance has not received the appreciation that it deserves as a phenomenon worthy of our sustained investigation. It may not tell us anything about impairment of memories, but it does tell us something about the creation of new memories. PMID- 2522501 TI - Induction of human IgE synthesis requires interleukin 4 and T/B cell interactions involving the T cell receptor/CD3 complex and MHC class II antigens. AB - The induction of IgE synthesis by IL-4 requires T cells and monocytes, as well as T cell- and monocyte-derived cytokines. Optimal cytokine combinations, however, fail to induce highly purified B cells to secrete IgE, indicating that additional signals are required. We show herein that the induction of human IgE synthesis by rIL-4 requires cognate interaction between the T cell receptor/CD3 complex on T cells and MHC class II antigens on B cells: mAbs directed against these molecules completely blocked IL-4-dependent IgE induction. mAbs against cell adhesion molecules (CD2, CD4, LFA-1) also inhibited IgE synthesis induced by IL-4, confirming that cell-cell contact is necessary for IgE induction. The requirement for cognate T/B cell interaction was further shown by comparing the IgE-inducing ability of two human IL-4-producing alloreactive T cell clones: F6, which recognizes MHC class II antigens on both B cells and monocytes, and A1, which recognizes an HLA-DP-associated epitope expressed on monocytes, but not on B cells. When incubated with B cells and monocytes from a normal donor bearing the appropriate alloantigen, clone F6, but not clone A1, induced vigorous IgE synthesis, although both clones proliferated and secreted IL-4. Taken together, our results suggest that at least two, possibly synergizing, signals are required for the T cell-dependent induction of IgE synthesis by B cells: one signal is delivered by cognate T/B cell interaction, the other by T cell-derived IL-4. PMID- 2522500 TI - Lineage-specific expression of a T cell receptor variable gene promoter controlled by upstream sequences. AB - We have characterized the sequence contribution of DNA 5' of a functionally rearranged TCR promoter (V beta 8.1) on its T lineage-specific expression through the use of the chloramphenicol acetyl-transferase (CAT) reporter gene. A 230-bp fragment located 570 bp upstream of the determined transcription start site of the V beta 8.1 promoter confers a T lineage specificity of expression to a heterologous promoter. The inability of the V beta 8.1 promoter and its associated elements to function in B cells suggests the existence of a mechanism to prevent inappropriate V beta gene expression in B cells. Of considerable interest is the fact that both a B cell-specific and a nontissue-specific enhancer element were incapable of stimulating significant expression of this promoter in B cells. We discuss the implication of these results on the process of rearrangement of both Ig and TCR genes, and the differentiation of the lymphoid system. PMID- 2522503 TI - In defense of a modular architecture for the number-processing system: reply to Campbell and Clark. AB - In several recent articles we have developed a model of the cognitive number processing and calculation systems. Campbell and Clark (1988), commenting on one of these articles (McCloskey, Sokol, & Goodman, 1986), called into question our model's assumption of a modular functional architecture and a single form of internal numerical representation. Campbell and Clark proposed as an alternative a nonmodular encoding-complex view. In this reply we discuss the results offered by Campbell and Clark as evidence against our model, arguing that several of these results are in fact consistent with the model and that the remaining results, while raising significant issues, by no means justify abandonment of the modular framework and the constraints it imposes. We also point out that whereas our model provides specific, well-motivated interpretations for a substantial body of empirical findings, the encoding-complex view is so underspecified and unconstrained as to be vacuous. PMID- 2522504 TI - Context effects in stroop-like word and picture processing. AB - Presents a series of 6 experiments in which Stroop-like effects were generated by modally pure color-color, picture-picture, and word-word stimuli instead of the usual modally mixed color-word or picture-word stimuli. Naming, reading, and categorization tasks were applied. The Stroop inhibition was preserved with these stimuli but unexpectedly showed a semantic gradient only in the naming and not in the reading task. Word categorizing was slower and more interference prone than picture categorizing. These and other results can be captured by a model with two main assumptions: (a) semantic memory and the lexicon are separate, and (b) words have privileged access to the lexicon, whereas pictures and colors have privileged access to the semantic network. Such a model is developed and put to an initial test. PMID- 2522505 TI - Repeated failure: a source of helplessness or a factor irrelevant to its emergence? AB - We tested the validity of the egotism model of human helplessness. In contrast to the original theoretical approach of Seligman and his associates, which points to response-outcome noncontingency as the main source of helplessness, the egotism alternative proposes that repeated failure itself is the critical determinant of helplessness symptoms. Repeated failure threatens the self-esteem of the subject, who supposedly engages in a least-effort strategy during the test phase of a typical learned helplessness study, which results in performance impairment. To examine the egotism explanation, we gave subjects noncontingent-feedback training with or without repeated failure on five consecutive discrimination problems. In two experiments, noncontingent-feedback preexposure produced helplessness deficits in performance on avoidance learning, whereas repeated failure appeared irrelevant to helplessness. This and our other findings from research are inconsistent with the egotism explanation and support instead Seligman's original proposal, in which helplessness is attributed to prolonged experience with noncontingency. PMID- 2522506 TI - Effects of frequency on visual word recognition tasks: where are they? AB - Compared the effect of frequency on lexical decision time (LDT) with that on reaction time (RT) in four other tasks, for the same words and subjects. Exp. 1 yielded an effect on semantic categorization RT (person vs. thing) similar in size and form to the effect on LDT. Exp. 2 yielded a substantial effect for syntactic categorization (noun vs. adjective), although weaker than the effect on LDT. In Exp. 3, the effect on naming RT for stress-final disyllabic words was identical to that on LDT, whereas the effect for stress-initial words was weaker. Exp. 4 showed no effect of frequency on delayed naming RT. The data undermine recent arguments for a (mainly) postidentification task-specific locus of frequency effects but are compatible with the older assumption (also characteristic of new PDP learning models) that lexical identification is a major locus of frequency effects (perhaps together with retrieval of meaning or phonology). But effects at that locus may be masked or diluted by other processes. PMID- 2522507 TI - Influences of misleading postevent information: misinformation interference and acceptance. AB - Because of the biasing nature of retrieval tests, evidence that the introduction of misleading postevent information will impair the memory for an original event has recently been in dispute. In two experiments, a retrieval test sensitive to both biasing effects of misinformation (misinformation acceptance) and influences of the misinformation on memory (misinformation interference) was used. Both experiments demonstrated misinformation acceptance, and one of the experiments suggested that misinformation interferes with the ability to remember the original event. Two misinformation interference hypotheses are evaluated; they suggest that the misinformation may have either impaired memory or led to confusion regarding what had occurred during the event. PMID- 2522508 TI - Wide-angle memories of close-up scenes. AB - We report a picture-memory phenomenon in which subjects' recall and recognition of photographed scenes reveal a pronounced extension of the pictures' boundaries. After viewing 20 pictures for 15 s each, 37 undergraduates exhibited this striking distortion; 95% of their drawings included information that had not been physically present but that would have been likely to have existed just outside the camera's field of view (Experiment 1). To determine if boundary extension is limited to recall and drawing ability, Experiment 2 tested recognition memory for boundaries. Eighty-five undergraduates rated targets and distractors on a boundary-placement scale. Subjects rated target pictures as being closer up than before and frequently mistook extended-boundary distractors as targets. Results are discussed in terms of picture comprehension and memory. In addition to its theoretical value, discovery of the phenomenon demonstrates the importance of more widespread use of open-ended tests in picture-memory methodology. PMID- 2522509 TI - Sensory-perceptual qualities of images. AB - Four experiments demonstrated that such sensory-perceptual features of objects as weight, color, and numerosity affect imaginal performance involving images of those objects. For example, imaginary transport times of objects increased with both the hypothetical weight of the imagined object and the distance traversed. The transport functions were steeper when a map of the terrain was imagined than when it was perceived, suggesting that imaginal performance of heft did not parallel more perceptually guided performance. Corresponding to the view that images activate noncanonical information from long-term memory, mental transport times were longer for maps of familiar terrains than for those of presumably unelaborated unfamiliar terrains. Further, the effects of imaginary color discriminations depended on the familiarity of the object being imagined. Images of customarily colored familiar objects were generated faster when projected onto a surface of the same color than when projected onto a surface of another color, whereas images constructed from unfamiliar targets were recognized more accurately when the target's color differed substantially from that of the ground than when it differed by a smaller amount. The results were predicted by a model that assumed that images may incorporate ancillary characteristics in addition to canonical information. PMID- 2522510 TI - Identification of disoriented objects: effects of context of prior presentation. AB - Half of the subjects in the training phase of Experiment 1 named objects shown in a number of orientations, whereas the other half named objects shown upright only. All subjects named objects seen in a number of different orientations in the transfer phase. Half of the objects in the transfer phase were the ones they had seen in the training phase (old objects), whereas the other half were objects they had not seen before (new objects). Mean naming time in the transfer phase increased more as the objects were rotated further from the upright for new objects than for old objects when the old objects had been seen in a variety of orientations. In contrast, a substantial and equivalent orientation effect on identification time was obtained for old and new objects when the old objects had been seen upright only. These results suggest that the extraction and use of orientation-invariant attributes to identify objects is not a "default" identification strategy employed by the human visual system. In Experiment 2, half of the objects named in the training phase were shown upright only, whereas the other half were shown in a number of orientations. Both types of objects (upright vs. rotated) were presented in a mixed fashion from trial to trial. The results revealed that prior naming of the objects in this context resulted in equivalent reductions in the magnitude of the orientation effect on identification time for both sets of objects (upright and rotated). Together, the results of these two experiments suggest that markedly different representations of objects are encoded, depending on the context in which objects are seen. Implications for models of pattern recognition are discussed. PMID- 2522511 TI - Subjective hierarchies in spatial memory. AB - Two experiments investigated the structure of spatial memories. Subjects learned locations of objects in spatial layouts (Experiment 1) or locations of object names on maps (Experiment 2). Physical and perceptual boundaries were absent in these spatial arrays. Subjects then participated in three tasks: item recognition, in which the variable of interest was spatial priming; free and cued recall; and Euclidean distance estimation. Ordered-tree analysis of individual subjects' recall protocols produced hierarchical trees consistent with regularities in output order. Spatial priming and distance estimations depended on whether pairs of objects appeared in the same subtree or in different subtrees. These findings indicate that spatial memories have a hierarchical component, even when physical and perceptual boundaries are nonexistent. Priming also increased with depth of clustering in ordered trees. This result supports spreading-activation theories of retrieval but provides evidence against several "non-spreading-activation" theories. PMID- 2522512 TI - Contingent dissociation between recognition and fragment completion: the method of triangulation. AB - Two experiments conforming to the logic of the method of triangulation were conducted. Following the study of a list of words, the first of two successive tests (recognition) was identical for two groups of subjects, but the second one, in which the same word-fragment cues were presented to both groups, differed with respect to retrieval instructions. Subjects in one group engaged in cued recall of study-list words, whereas those in the second group completed the fragments with the first word that came to mind. Both experiments yielded the same result: The dependency between the first and second tests, indexed by Yule's Q statistic, was greater for recognition and cued recall than it was for recognition and fragment completion. These results speak to the controversial issue of the usefulness of contingency analyses of data from successive memory tests. The results are interpreted in a theoretical framework consisting of an integration of the idea of a hypothetical quasi-memory system with the transfer-appropriate procedural approach. PMID- 2522513 TI - On the course of forgetting in very long-term memory. AB - For practical reasons, little information is available about memory across very long learning-retention intervals. To determine the time course of forgetting in very long-term memory, a memory test was constructed that sampled events (former one-season television programs) that had occurred during a single year from 1 to 15 years ago. Updated versions of the test were administered each year for 9 consecutive years, and a forgetting curve was then calculated by superimposing the results from the nine tests. The best fitting function to the curve was monotonic and nonlinear. The findings show that forgetting in very long-term memory can be gradual and continuous for many years after learning. PMID- 2522514 TI - Misled subjects may know more than their performance implies. AB - Many studies have demonstrated that subjects exposed to misleading postevent information are likely to report the misinformation with confidence on subsequent tests of memory for the event. The purpose of the present studies was to determine whether subjects exposed to misleading postevent information come to believe they remember seeing the misinformation at the original event. A second question addressed by the present studies is whether exposure to misinformation reduces subjects' ability to remember the source of items they witnessed at the original event. In two experiments, subjects viewed a slide sequence depicting an event, were subsequently exposed to misleading information or neutral information about selected aspects of the event, and were later tested on their memory for the source of original and misleading details. The results showed that exposure to misinformation did not lead subjects to believe they remembered seeing the misinformation, nor did it reduce subjects' ability to accurately identify the source of originally seen details. The same pattern of results was obtained whether subjects were tested immediately (Experiment 1) or after a 1-day delay (Experiment 2). Collectively, the results suggest that subjects may report misinformation even if they know they do not remember seeing it. PMID- 2522515 TI - Immediate serial recall of mixed-modality lists. AB - Seven experiments are reported in which subjects were tested for immediate serial recall of mixed-modality lists. On mixed auditory-visual lists, there was an advantage for auditory items at all serial positions. This was due to both a facilitation of auditory items and an inhibition of visual items on mixed lists, as compared with single-modality lists. When presented on a list containing items read silently, recall of items that were silently mouthed by the subject demonstrated patterns similar to those found with auditory items. When presented on a list containing items read aloud, recall of mouthed items showed patterns similar to those found with silently read items. The auditory advantage on mixed lists was found even when the list items were acoustically similar or identical and was not reduced by midlist auditory suffixes. The results suggest that modality differences in recall of mixed-modality lists are based on information different from that responsible for modality differences in recall of single modality lists. PMID- 2522516 TI - Episodic effects on picture identification: implications for theories of concept learning and theories of memory. AB - The effects of differences in study processing on free recall of picture names and on generalization in picture identification were investigated. Experience with degraded pictures produced poorer subsequent free recall of picture names than did naming intact pictures. For the test of picture identification, pictures that were identical to a studied picture, pictures that shared a name with a studied picture (same name), and new test pictures were presented, and the amount of clarification required to identify a picture was measured. Experience with degraded pictures produced better subsequent identification of identical test pictures but poorer later identification of same-name test pictures than did naming intact pictures. The importance of these episodic effects for theories of concept learning and theories of memory is discussed. It is argued that distinctions between memory systems (e.g., episodic-semantic) must be couched in terms of a theory of concept learning and that the data are inconsistent with a simple distinction. PMID- 2522517 TI - Rules and exemplars in categorization, identification, and recognition. AB - Subjects learned to classify perceptual stimuli varying along continuous, separable dimensions into rule-described categories. The categories were designed to contrast the predictions of a selective-attention exemplar model and a simple rule-based model formalizing an economy-of-description view. Converging evidence about categorization strategies was obtained by also collecting identification and recognition data and by manipulating strategies via instructions. In free strategy conditions, the exemplar model generally provided an accurate quantitative account of identification, categorization, and recognition performance, and it allowed for the interrelationship of these paradigms within a unified framework. Analyses of individual subject data also provided some evidence for the use of rules, but in general, the rules seemed to have a great deal in common with exemplar storage processes. Classification and recognition performance for subjects given explicit instructions to use specific rules contrasted dramatically with performance in the free-strategy conditions and could not be predicted by the exemplar model. PMID- 2522518 TI - Semantic associations and elaborative inference. AB - In this article, a theoretical framework is proposed for the inference processes that occur during reading. According to the framework, inferences can vary in the degree to which they are encoded. This notion is supported by three experiments in this article that show that degree of encoding can depend on the amount of semantic-associative information available to support the inference processes. In the experiments, test words that express possible inferences from texts are presented for recognition. When testing is delayed, with other texts and test items intervening between a text and its test word, performance depends on the amount of semantic-associative information in the text. If the inferences represented by the test words are not supported by semantic associates in the text, they appear to be only minimally encoded (replicating McKoon & Ratcliff, 1986), but if they are supported by semantic associates, they are strongly encoded. With immediate testing, only 250 ms after the text, performance is shown to depend on semantic-associative information, not on textual information. This suggests that it is the fast availability of semantic information that allows it to support inference processes. PMID- 2522519 TI - Probe-detection times during the reading of easy and difficult text. AB - Two experiments were conducted to determine the effects of text difficulty on cognitive capacity demands. In Experiment 1, subjects read easy and difficult text when a secondary task was either present or absent. Text was presented one word at a time, and rereading was prevented by erasing each word after it had been read. Prior studies have indicated that cognitive capacity demands decrease as text difficulty increases (e.g., Britton, Westbrook, & Holdredge, 1978). In contrast to this, the main results of Experiment 1 revealed shorter visual-probe detection times during the reading of easy text than during the reading of difficult text. Analyses of word-reading times showed that difficult text was read slower than easy text, irrespective of probe application. Experiment 2 compared visual-probe detection with auditory-probe detection. The results again showed shorter probe reaction times during the reading of easy text than during the reading of difficult text, irrespective of probe type. There were, however, effects of probe type on the reading time of words following the visual probe. The results were taken as evidence that the reading of difficult text requires more capacity than the reading of easy text and that probes may incur modality specific and modality-independent capacity demands. PMID- 2522520 TI - Summary knowledge of results for skill acquisition: support for the guidance hypothesis. AB - Summary knowledge of results (KR) involves the presentation KR for each of a set of trials (e.g., 10) only after the last trial in the set has been completed. Earlier, Lavery (1962) showed that, relative to providing KR after each trial, a 20-trial summary KR was detrimental to performance in a practice phase with KR present but was beneficial for a no-KR retention test. Using a relatively simple ballistic-timing task, we examined summary lengths of 1 (essentially KR after every trial), 5, 10, and 15 trials, searching for an inverted-U relationship between summary length and retention performance as predicated by a guidance hypothesis for KR. During acquisition when KR was present and being manipulated, all groups showed improvements in performance across practice, while increased summary lengths generally depressed performance. However, in a delayed no-KR retention test, there was an inverse relation between the summary length in acquisition and absolute constant error on the retention test. A guidance hypothesis is favored to explain how, relative to immediate KR, long KR summaries can provide detrimental effects in acquisition while enhancing retention performance. PMID- 2522521 TI - Capacity limitations in visual word processing. AB - The ability of subjects to process English words in a spatially parallel manner was examined in several redundant-target detection tasks. When redundant targets were identical in a given display, processing limitations were evident in a task that required subjects to make semantic categorizations of words. However, parallel processing of identical redundant target words was exhibited in a lexical decision task that required a structural analysis of letter strings, but not an analysis of word meaning. The difference in performance in the two tasks suggests that the capacity for semantic processing is limited. Analyses designed to examine whether the redundancy gain in Experiment 2 could be attributed to limited capacity processing in conjunction with positional preferences provided evidence against this possibility. In addition, these analyses suggested that the processing times for the redundant targets in Experiment 2 might be positively correlated. In the third and fourth experiments, the redundant-target displays contained two different words. Processing interference, in the form of a redundancy loss, was evident in the lexical decision task, but not in the semantic categorization task, confirming a difference in the mode of processing between the two tasks. The results provide evidence against the unlimited capacity, parallel processing hypothesis of late selection theories of attention. PMID- 2522522 TI - Attentional demands of visual word recognition. AB - Becker's (1976, 1979, 1980, 1985; Becker & Killion, 1977; Eisenberg & Becker, 1982) verification model was used as a framework to investigate the attentional demands of word recognition. In two experiments, a lexical decision task and an auditory probe task were performed in single- and dual-task conditions. Responses to probes were divided into detection and movement measures that indexed the demands of recognition and response output, respectively. In Experiment 1, single to dual-task decrements in probe detection performance were larger during low frequency as compared with high-frequency trials. This finding indicates that the attentional demands of word recognition vary with word frequency. These findings were replicated in Experiment 2, which was designed to separate a response compatibility and a capacity interpretation of the results. The findings are interpreted within Becker's verification model. PMID- 2522523 TI - Context-dependent migrations in visual word perception. AB - In the present study we investigate the effect of context--that is, a prime--on migration errors. Migration errors, or migrations, are caused by perceptual interactions between two words in a visual display, such as line-lace. After postcuing, subjects sometimes report lane or lice, instead of the requested word line. This phenomenon has been demonstrated by previous studies. In the experiments reported here, we replicate this phenomenon. We also find that more migrations of the lane type occur (compared with lice type), when the display line-lace is preceded by a prime related to lane (but not to lice). This shows that higher order word knowledge, in the form of semantic relations between words, influences the migration phenomenon. Further, we show that the number of migration errors are not a result of only a summation of activation from the letters in the display. The method we developed to isolate context-dependent migrations also gives valuable information about the effect of contextual information on word perception. PMID- 2522524 TI - Reading long words embedded in sentences: informativeness of word halves affects eye movements. AB - The possibility was explored that the informativeness of a specific region within a word can influence eye movements during reading. In Experiment 1, words containing identifying information either toward the beginning or toward the end were displayed asymmetrically around the point of fixation so that the reader was initially presented with either the informative or noninformative zone. Words were read with shorter summed initial fixation time when the reading was started from the informative zone. In Experiments 2 and 3, the target words were presented in sentences that were to be comprehended. More attention was given to the informative endings of words than to redundant endings. The latter were also skipped more often. The duration of the first fixation was not affected by information distribution within the word, whereas the second fixation duration was. The results of these experiments lend good support to the hypothesis of immediate lexical control over fixation behavior and to the notion of a convenient viewing position. PMID- 2522525 TI - Why is word recognition impaired by disorientation while the identification of single letters is not? AB - Past research has shown that speed of identifying single letters or digits is largely indifferent to orientation, whereas the recognition of single words or connected text is markedly disrupted by disorientation. In a series of four experiments, we attempted to reconcile these findings. The results suggest that disorientation does not impair the identification of the characters but disrupts the perception of their spatial arrangement. When spatial order information is critical for distinguishing between different stimuli, disorientation is disruptive because some rectification process is required to restore order information. Utilizing the similarity between the letter B and the number 13, we found strong effects of orientation when a stimulus was interpreted as the two digit number 13 but not when interpreted as the single letter B. This, however, occurred only when the set of numbers to be classified included permutations of the same digits (Experiments 1 and 2). Odd-even decisions on single-digit and two digit numbers (Experiment 3) yielded strong effects of stimulus orientation for order-dependent numbers (e.g., 32), weaker effects for order-independent numbers (e.g., 24), and none for repeated-digit (e.g., 22) or single-digit numbers. Classification time for two-letter Hebrew words evidenced strong effects of orientation for words that differed only in letter order but much weaker effects for words that had no letters in common, even when these were embedded within some words that did (Experiment 4). PMID- 2522526 TI - Splitting visual space with attention. AB - If a right-left spatial compatibility effect is observed, it can be maintained that the space has been segmented into right- and left-side parts. The present study aimed at showing a spatial compatibility effect (and, by implication, a right-left subdivision of space) solely attributable to the orienting of attention. Five groups of 8 normal subjects were required to give right-left discriminative responses to stimuli presented within one of six empty boxes arranged in a horizontal row. Reaction times and errors were recorded. The first two experiments showed that a right-left grouping of the boxes occurred regardless of whether subjects' fixation was kept at the intermediate position (Experiment 1) or at one extremity (Experiment 2) of the row. In Experiments 3 and 4, subjects' attention was not aligned with a fixed position but was moved, through peripheral cues, from trial to trial and positioned between different pairs of adjacent boxes. The results showed that the display was again subdivided into two regions and that the reference point for the right-left subdivision was the focus of attention. In Experiment 5, eye position was instrumentally monitored, and subjects' attention was directed by central cues. The results confirmed that the focusing of attention leads to a right-left partitioning of space, with the boundary at the locus of focal attention. In conclusion, we demonstrated, by employing a right-left spatial compatibility paradigm, that directing attention to a position in space brings about a right-left perceptual organization that predominates over that provided by the other egocentric reference axes. PMID- 2522527 TI - Image generation and processing of generated images in the cerebral hemispheres. AB - Recent computational models describing the contribution of the cerebral hemispheres to visual imagery have suggested an exclusive capacity of the left hemisphere to generate multipart images. A brief review of relevant findings indicates that the evidence presented in support of this suggestion is not entirely compelling; this prompted a reexamination of this issue in a lateral tachistoscopic study on normal adults. Sixteen subjects participated in two experiments in which they had to decide whether or not a lowercase letter contained a segment extending above or below the main body of the letter. This decision was made directly on lowercase letters in one experiment (perceptual task) and on their generated images in the other experiment (imagery task). The quality of the letters (clear or blurred) and the retinal eccentricity of stimulus presentation (small or large) were orthogonally manipulated. The perceptual task yielded no main effect of visual field but a significant interaction of visual field and letter quality. By contrast, the imagery task resulted in a left visual-field superiority but no interaction involving the visual fields--a departure from predictions based on current models of visual imagery. In addition, the pattern of results in the imagery task corresponded to that obtained with blurred letters in the perceptual task, suggesting limitations in spatial resolution of visual images. Implications of these results for models of cerebral lateralization and visual imagery are discussed. PMID- 2522528 TI - Precision and accuracy in the reproduction of simple tone sequences. AB - In four experiments we investigated the precision and accuracy with which amateur musicians are able to reproduce sequences of tones varied only temporally, so as to have tone and rest durations constant over sequences, and the tempo varied over the musically meaningful range of 5-0.5 tones per second. Experiments 1 and 2 supported the hypothesis of attentional bias toward having the attack moments, rather than the departure moments, precisely times. Experiment 3 corroborated the hypothesis that inaccurate timing of short interattack intervals is manifested in a lengthening of rests, rather than tones, as a result of larger motor activity during the reproduction of rests. Experiment 4 gave some support to the hypothesis that the shortening of long interattack intervals is due to mnemonic constraints affecting the rests rather than the tones. Both theoretical and practical consequences of the various findings, particularly with respect to timing in musical performance, are discussed. PMID- 2522529 TI - Semantic and perceptual priming: how similar are the underlying mechanisms? AB - Both semantic priming and perceptual priming consist of facilitation of the identification of primed stimuli and inhibition of the identification of nonprimed stimuli. The similarities between the two phenomena suggest that a common attentional mechanism underlies both, and this has been explicitly proposed by several attention theorists. In this article it is argued that the phenomena of semantic and perceptual priming are qualitatively different, perceptual priming reflecting a sensitivity change in the recognition process brought about by attention, and semantic priming reflecting a bias change in the recognition process brought about by attention. Because different mechanisms are required to produce sensitivity and bias changes, this implies that the attentional mechanisms responsible for semantic and perceptual priming are distinct. In terms of recent discussions of the modularity versus the unity of cognitive architecture, the present conclusion supports a modular architecture for attentional processes. PMID- 2522530 TI - Perceptual learning of spatiotemporal events: evidence from an unfamiliar modality. AB - Perceptual learning was examined in two experiments in which subjects, originally unfamiliar with vibrotactile stimulation, were required to identify dynamic vibrotactile patterns with static visual patterns of the same two-dimensional shapes. In Experiment 1 we examined changes in performance with practice under a variety of vibrotactile spatial and temporal conditions. In Experiment 2 we investigated transfer of learning from one set of vibrotactile patterns to another different set. In neither experiment were subjects supplied with knowledge of results. Substantial perceptual learning (improvement in identification with practice) was observed in Experiment 1, although a minority of subjects did not exhibit improvement. Experiment 2 confirmed the general findings of Experiment 1 and also provided evidence of substantial positive transfer. In both experiments, multidimensional scaling of pattern confusion data revealed that practice (and improvement in identification) did not qualitatively change the relative confusability of patterns, suggesting that the (informative) structure of the patterns, irrespective of familiarity with a specific set of patterns, determined confusability. The findings are interpreted in terms of learning constructs offered by E. J. and J. J. Gibson. We conclude by considering the prospects that a connectionist mechanism can account for the observed perceptual learning. PMID- 2522531 TI - Shape from shadows. AB - The colors, textures, and shapes of shadows are physically constrained in several ways in natural scenes. The visual system appears to ignore these constraints, however, and to accept many patterns as shadows even though they could not occur naturally. In the stimuli that we have studied, the only requirements for the perception of depth due to shadows were that shadow regions be darker than the surrounding, nonshadow regions and that there be consistent contrast polarity along the shadow border. Three-dimensional shape due to shadows was perceived when shadow areas were filled with colors or textures that could not occur in natural scenes, when shadow and nonshadow regions had textures that moved in different directions, or when they were presented on different depth planes. The results suggest that the interpretation of shadows begins with the identification of acceptable shadow borders by a cooperative process that requires consistent contrast polarity across a range of scales at each point along the border. Finally, we discuss how the identification of a shadow region can help the visual system to patch together areas that are separated by shadow boundaries, to identify directions of surface curvature, and to select a preferred three dimensional interpretation while rejecting others. PMID- 2522532 TI - Haptic integration of object properties: texture, hardness, and planar contour. AB - Planar objects varying in shape, texture, and hardness were classified under haptic exploration. Classes were defined by values on one dimension, or redundantly, by two or three dimensions. Response times and exploratory procedures (Lederman & Klatzky, 1987) were recorded. Experiment 1 showed that a second dimension speeded responses for all combinations (redundancy gain), but a third dimension produced no further effect. In Experiments 2 and 3, classification trials began with two redundant dimensions, and subsequently one was withdrawn (held constant). When texture and hardness varied redundantly, withdrawal of either increased response time--even when subjects were initially instructed to focus on one dimension. Joint exploration for texture and hardness dominated whenever the two varied redundantly and persisted despite withdrawal. Redundancy gains (Experiment 1), but not substantial withdrawal effects (Experiments 2 and 3), were observed for combinations of texture or hardness with planar contour, indicating less integration than between substance dimensions. Compatibility of exploratory procedures appears to constrain dimensional integration. PMID- 2522533 TI - Perceiving extents of rods by wielding: haptic diagonalization and decomposition of the inertia tensor. AB - We report two experiments on the length-perception capabilities of the hand related haptic subsystem. On each trial, a visually occluded rod was wielded by the subject at a position intermediate between its two ends. The position was either 1/2 or 3/4 of the rod's length. On two-thirds of the trials, a weight was attached to the rod at a point either above or below its center of gravity and not coincident with the hand's position. In Experiment 1, the subject's task was to perceive the distance reachable with the portion of the rod extending beyond the position of the grasp. In the second experiment, the subject's task was to perceive the distance reachable with the entire rod if it were held at its proximal end. In Experiment 1, perceived reaching distance was a function of the moment of inertia of the amount of rod forward of the grasp about an axis through the proximal end of the rod segment. In Experiment 2, perceived reaching distance was a function of the moment of inertia of the entire rod about the given axis of rotation intermediate between the rod's ends. The results are discussed in terms of (a) the notion of smart perceptual instruments capitalizing on invariant properties of the inertia tensor and (b) how the haptic decomposition of moments of inertia follows the principle of equivalence of forces. PMID- 2522535 TI - Resources, confusions, and compatibility in dual-axis tracking: displays, controls, and dynamics. AB - Why do people often find that performing two tasks at once is harder than performing one task at a time? Three mechanisms of task interference that might answer that question were investigated: resource competition, confusions, and incompatible task proximity between processing stages. The subjects performed dual-axis compensatory tracking with error displays that were either integrated or separated, with axis controls that either were integrated into one stick or remained separate, and with control dynamics on the two axes that were either the same or different. Tracking error increased and control activity decreased as a function of the combined difficulty of the two control dynamics. Integrated displays and integrated controls both led to increased confusions between tracking axes although error was not reliably affected. Significantly, performance was also affected by whether the integrality of displays matched that of controls. These results suggest that resource competition, confusions, and compatibility of proximity play distinct roles in dual-axis tracking performance. PMID- 2522534 TI - Dimensional interaction between color and pitch. AB - In three experiments I investigated the nature of cross-modal dimensional interaction by testing speeded classification of the synesthetically corresponding dimensions of color (white-black) and pitch (high-low). Experiment 1 showed significant Garner interference when these dimensions were varied orthogonally--redundancy gain for positively correlated dimensions and redundancy loss for negatively correlated dimensions. Attributes from synesthetically congruent stimuli were classified faster than attributes from incongruent stimuli (a congruity effect). Experiment 2 tested a perceptual explanation of this interaction (i.e., that color and pitch are configural dimensions) by using Pomerantz's (1986) diagnostic (comparison of selective and divided attention performance). The configurality hypothesis received little support. Experiment 3 examined the effect of optional processes on color and pitch classification. The results suggest that partly strategic and partly mandatory components may constitute overall performance. Three alternative explanations of the color-pitch interaction--perceptual, semantic, and response based--are evaluated in the context of the present results. PMID- 2522536 TI - Does the identification of simple features require serial processing? AB - Several recent studies have shown performance decrements with increasing display size when background texture elements are present in a same-different feature discrimination task--a result that challenges the traditional notion that the identities of simple visual features are processed in parallel, preattentively. Four experiments are reported that explore the implications of these results. Experiment 1 replicates the recent studies but limits the generalizability of the results to small target numbers. Experiments 2 and 3 show that the observed performance decrements are not due to a serial or even limited-capacity, parallel process. Experiment 4 suggests that decision factors idiosyncratic to the use of texture elements in a same-different task are responsible for the effect. It is concluded that the identification of simple visual features proceeds in parallel, with unlimited capacity (i.e., preattentively). PMID- 2522537 TI - Targeting and processing of pro-opiomelanocortin in neuronal cell lines. AB - Pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) is the precursor to several pituitary hormones including adrenocorticotropic hormone and beta-endorphin (beta-END). POMC is also expressed in the brain, predominantly in discrete neuronal cell populations of the hypothalamus. In the pituitary and brain, POMC undergoes tissue-specific proteolysis to release different bioactive peptides. POMC processing in neuronal cell lines was studied after infection of PC12 and Neuro2A cells with a recombinant retrovirus carrying the porcine POMC cDNA. Our results indicate that both cell lines synthesize and target POMC to the regulated secretory pathway. Only the Neuro2A cells, however, can achieve proteolytic processing of POMC. Chromatographic and immunological characterization of the POMC-related material showed that beta-lipotropin (beta-LPH) and nonacetylated beta-END(1-31) are major maturation products of POMC in these cells. Release of both beta-LPH and beta END(1-31) from infected Neuro2A cells can be stimulated by secretagogues in a calcium-dependent manner. Taken together, our results suggest that the cellular machinery of Neuro2A cells can recognize a foreign prohormone, target it to neurosecretory vesicles, process it into biologically active peptides, and secrete it in a manner characteristic to peptidergic neurons. PMID- 2522538 TI - Release of acetylcholine from tissue slices of the rat nucleus basalis magnocellularis. AB - We investigated the release of acetylcholine (ACh) from tissue slices obtained from the nucleus basalis magnocellularis (nbM) of the rat brain. Potassium (35 mM) depolarization produced a 10- to 12-fold increase in the release of endogenous ACh above spontaneous release. Potassium-evoked ACh release was Ca2+ dependent. Injection of the excitotoxin quinolinic acid into the nbM produced a 72.8 +/- 13.0% decrease in spontaneous ACh release and a 60.4 +/- 8.2% decrease in potassium-evoked release. A fourfold increase in ACh release was observed following perfusion of the tissue with 1 mM 3,4-diaminopyridine (3,4-DAP) whereas 10 mM 3,4-DAP caused a sevenfold increase. The increase in ACh release caused by 3,4-DAP was inhibited by tetrodotoxin. Tissue slices accumulated [3H]choline by high-affinity choline uptake and this could be inhibited by hemicholinium-3. These results indicate that ACh can be released from tissue slices of the nbM by a calcium-dependent process and that a part of this release appears to be from the cholinergic neurons of the nbM. PMID- 2522539 TI - Down's syndrome individuals begin life with normal levels of brain cholinergic markers. AB - We measured the activities of the cholinergic marker enzymes choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) in autopsied brains of seven infants (age range 3 months to 1 year) with Down's syndrome (DS), a disorder in which virtually all individuals will develop by middle age the neuropathological changes of Alzheimer's disease accompanied by a marked brain cholinergic reduction. When compared with age-matched controls cholinergic enzyme activity was normal in all brain regions of the individuals with infant DS with the exception of above-normal activity in the putamen (ChAT) and the occipital cortex (AChE). Our neurochemical observations suggest that DS individuals begin life with a normal complement of brain cholinergic neurons. This opens the possibility of early therapeutic intervention to prevent the development of brain cholinergic changes in patients with DS. PMID- 2522540 TI - Muscle pathology in Marinesco-Sjogren syndrome. AB - Three of 4 adult patients with Marinesco-Sjogren syndrome (MSS; 2 males and 2 females, aged 26-31 years) in 2 families became non-ambulant because of slowly progressive muscular weakness rather than cerebellar ataxia. Other clinical features in these 4 patients were typical for MSS: bilateral cataracts from infancy, mental retardation, severe cerebellar atrophy, multiple skeletal abnormalities and hypergonadotropic hypogonadism. EMG demonstrated a myopathic pattern and serum CK was mildly elevated. Muscle biopsies from these 3 patients showed myopathic changes including a marked variation in fiber size, an increased number of fibers with centralized nuclei, and scattered necrotic and regenerating fibers. Fiber type analysis with myosin ATPase staining showed type 1 fiber predominance, type 2B fiber deficiency and mild increase in type 2C fibers. Muscle biopsy changes and the clinical course indicate that our MSS patients suffered from a chronic dystrophic process similar to that in congenital muscular dystrophy. PMID- 2522542 TI - Failed-back syndrome. PMID- 2522541 TI - The pattern of acquisition of plaques and tangles in the brains of patients under 50 years of age with Down's syndrome. AB - The form and distribution of senile plaques (SP) and neurofibrillary tangles (NFT) has been examined in the brains of 13 patients with Down's syndrome (DS), aged less than or equal to 50 years, using immunocytochemical and silver staining procedures. SP become present within the brain before NFT and these appear firstly as fine, even, diffuse areas of anti-amyloid (A4) protein immunoreactivity in the absence of any discernable neuritic change. Later the amount of anti-A4 protein in SP increases and SP show a marked surrounding neuritic response which is detectable using either silver or anti-paired helical filament (PHF) staining methods. At this stage NFT also become detectable within the perikaryon of nerve cells in both the cortex and the subcortex, with the large stellate neurones of layer II of the entorhinal cortex showing an early involvement. By the age of 50 years, most patients are well on the way towards achieving (and some have already achieved) that pattern of SP and NFT morphology and distribution that is typically seen in patients over 50 years of age with DS and in other patients in the general population with Alzheimer's disease. PMID- 2522543 TI - Intestinal IgA responses to Giardia muris in mice depleted of helper T lymphocytes and in immunocompetent mice. AB - Immunocompetent mice infected with Giardia muris generate an intestinal antibody response to this parasite and clear G. muris infection. Previous work has shown that G. muris infection is prolonged in mice that have been depleted of helper (CD4+) T lymphocytes by treatment with a monoclonal antibody (mAb) directed against the murine CD4 antigen. The aim of the present study was to compare the intestinal anti-Giardia antibody response in immunocompetent mice and in mice depleted of helper T (Th) lymphocytes by treatment with anti-CD4 mAb. Immunocompetent mice generated an IgA response to G. muris, as judged by the presence of IgA on Giardia trophozoites harvested from the intestine of these animals more than 10 days after the start of the infection. The anti-Giardia IgA response was impaired in mice depleted of Th lymphocytes, as judged by virtual absence of immunofluorescent staining of trophozoites from these animals for surface-bound IgA. Clearance of G. muris infection was impaired by treatment of mice with anti-CD4 mAb. The results suggest that Th (CD4+) lymphocytes are important for the generation of a local IgA response against G. muris trophozoites in the mouse intestine and that IgA anti-trophozoite antibody may contribute to the clearance of G. muris from the intestine of immunocompetent mice. PMID- 2522544 TI - The newborn infant with Down syndrome: realities and possibilities. PMID- 2522545 TI - Reversal of muscle relaxants. PMID- 2522546 TI - The sodium pump. The Bertram Louis Abrahams lecture 1988. PMID- 2522547 TI - Endoscopic infertility surgery. AB - Since the introduction of endoscopy by Jacobaeus in 1910, there has been a dramatic change in the pattern of and approach to the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases of the female reproductive organs. The advances in techniques of operative endoscopy, in high technology and in instrumentation (such as endoscopes, video cameras and videomonitors) have made it possible to perform laparoscopically many of the infertility-related procedures previously requiring laparotomy. The advantages of such surgery are the rapid recovery time, decreased time lost from work, smaller scars, reduced cost, avoidance of risks and complications of laparotomy, and, perhaps, better results. PMID- 2522548 TI - Endometriosis-associated infertility. Treatment options. AB - Formulating a treatment plan for infertility associated with endometriosis is difficult due to the lack of a cause-and-effect relationship between the disease and infertility. Several molecular and cellular mechanisms have been postulated as playing roles in endometriosis-associated infertility; they are reviewed here. Several medical and surgical treatment options are discussed, including danocrine, medroxyprogesterone acetate and gonadotropin releasing hormone agonists. A combined medical and surgical approach and occasional expectant management remain the treatments of choice. PMID- 2522549 TI - Colorectal liver metastases: is 'no treatment' still best? PMID- 2522550 TI - Responses to music and movement in the development of children with Down's syndrome. AB - Physical responses to rhythmic stimuli and music, of different degrees of complexity were registered from 25 children with Down's syndrome and 25 other mentally handicapped children. Required performances were taught and then recorded on video-tape, after which they were assessed by experienced teacher/judges. Whilst there were no overall significant differences between the groups, important differences were detected between the children in different schools with attendant implications for differential treatment. Apart from an overall and general assessment of performance, analysis was made of demographic variables, for example, sex, intelligence, age and social development. It is concluded that specific teaching approaches can significantly effect the development of children with Down's syndrome in such creative aspects of the curriculum as music, movement and dance. PMID- 2522551 TI - Analysis of ward staff initiatives towards mentally retarded residents: clues for intervention. AB - Traditionally, efforts to improve the quality of residential care for the mentally retarded are focused on modifying particular ward staff behaviours. Several studies suggest, however, that ward staff behaviours are, at least partly, controlled by certain resident behaviours. This study investigated the relationship between resident behaviour and resident directed initiatives by ward staff. Recording occurred on four living groups with 39 residents during 32 weeks on the average for each group. Pearson product-moment correlations revealed that residents' level of ambulation, waking state, looking behaviours, adaptive-, maladaptive- and stereotype behaviours were related to the amount and quality of resident directed initiatives. The results suggest that modifying certain resident behaviours might offer a fruitful strategy for improving residential care for mentally retarded individuals. PMID- 2522552 TI - A method of displaying assessment information about people with multiple handicaps as a disability profile. AB - A method is described of displaying information about the range of multiple disabilities experienced by individuals who are also mentally handicapped, using the assessments available on a Mental Handicap Register. The presentation, in the graphical form suggested, enables groups to be compared whilst retaining details of an individual's problems. PMID- 2522553 TI - Lambda cro repressor complex with OR3 operator DNA. 19F nuclear magnetic resonance observations. AB - The interaction of lambda cro repressor with DNA is probed using synthetic 17 base-pair OR3 operators in which 5-fluorodeoxyuridine has been systematically incorporated at each of the nine positions normally occupied by a thymidine residue. By monitoring changes in chemical shift of the fluorine resonances upon cro repressor binding in aqueous buffers of varying 2H2O content, we have examined the specific cro repressor-OR3 DNA complex in detail. The results are interpreted in the context of the popular model for cro repressor-OR3 complex derived from the three-dimensional structure of the cro repressor in the absence of DNA. The results presented here not originally predicted by the model are: (1) there is an asymmetry in the environment at the two ends of the operator, although the base-pairs involved and the cro repressor dimer are symmetric; (2) there appears to be distortion of the DNA helix at two distinct positions; (3) changes of the DNA environment in the middle of the helix suggest additional DNA distortion not near the contact areas proposed in the model. PMID- 2522554 TI - Structure and inherent properties of the bacteriophage lambda head shell. VI. DNA packaging-defective mutants in the major capsid protein. AB - Some amino acid substitutions in the major capsid protein (gene E product) of lambda phage are found to cause a defect in DNA packaging. These substitutions permit initiation of DNA packaging and expansion of the prohead. However, cleavage of the concatemer DNA at the cos site takes place only to a very small extent, and the capsid eventually becomes empty. Interestingly, the mutations are suppressed by a decrease of the DNA length between the cos sites by 8000 to 10,000 bases. These properties are similar to those of amber mutants in gene D, which codes for the capsid outer-surface protein. Studies on the E missense.D amber double mutant show that the E protein and the D protein contribute additively to the stabilization of the condensed form of the DNA molecule in phage heads. PMID- 2522555 TI - Calcium-triggered movement of regulated actin in vitro. A fluorescence microscopy study. AB - We previously reported setting up an in vitro system for the observation of actin filament sliding along myosin filaments. The system involved a minute amount of fluorescently labelled F-actin, and its movement was monitored by fluorescence microscopy. Here, we report observations of the Ca2+-dependent movement of F actin complex with tropomyosin plus troponin (regulated actin) added to the movement system in place of pure F-actin. In a wide range of pCa (-log10[Ca2+]) between 3 and 5.5 at 30 degrees C, regulated actin filaments moved rapidly, and the average velocity depended little on the Ca2+ concentration (about 7.5 microns/s). However, when the Ca2+ concentration was decreased to pCa = 5.8 or lower, the filaments suddenly stopped moving. In striking contrast to these observations, unregulated actin moved rapidly within the whole pCa range examined, the average velocity (about 7.5 microns/s) being essentially Ca2+ independent. These observations indicate that (1) tropomyosin-troponin actually gave Ca2+-sensitivity to F-actin, and (2) the movement system was regulated by Ca2+ in an on-off fashion within a narrow range of Ca2+ concentration. In a pCa range between 5.8 and 6.0, regulated actin filaments did not exhibit thermal motion; instead, they had fixed positions in the specimen, possibly because they remained associated with myosin filaments in the background, without sliding past each other. Although regulated actin moved fast in the presence of 1 mM-CaCl2 (pCa = 3) at 30 degrees C, it became entirely non-motile as the temperature was decreased to 25 degrees C or lower. Such a sharp movement/temperature relation was never found for unregulated actin. We assayed regulated actin-activated myosin ATPase in the same conditions as used for microscopy, and found that the ATPase activity depended both on pCa and on the temperature considerably less than the movement of regulated actin. The results suggest that the sliding velocity in the in vitro system would not be proportional to the rate of actin activated ATPase. PMID- 2522557 TI - Genetic dissection of the transactivating domain of the E1a 289R protein of adenovirus type 2. AB - A series of linker-scanning, deletion, and frameshift mutations were made in the pm975 variant of the adenovirus type 2 E1a gene, which expresses only the larger of the two major E1a proteins. Most of these were within the 46-amino-acid segment unique to the larger E1a protein product (the 289R protein), which confers on it the ability to activate in trans the expression of other genes. The mutations were recombined into virus and assayed by in vitro transcription in nuclei isolated from infected cells for their ability to activate the transcription of other viral early genes and of the endogenous hsp70 gene. Mutant E1a proteins from which the 289R-unique segment was removed by deletion or truncation did not completely lose the ability to transactivate by comparison with a virus which makes no E1a at all, indicating that sequences outside this domain are active in the positive regulation of transcription. The E1a mutations tested fell into several classes: those that increased transactivation of virtually all genes, those that severely depressed transactivation of all genes, and those that depressed transactivation only moderately. Each mutation had similar effects on the expression of all transcription units tested, indicating a common process in their transactivation. However, some mutants in the third category decreased transactivation of some induced genes more severely than of others. Such gene-specific defects suggest the existence of subclasses of E1a responsive transcription units, consistent with the involvement of diverse proteins in the transactivation of different genes. Two specific structural components of the transactivating domain, a putative metal-binding element and a region with high potential for beta-sheet formation at its carboxy-terminus, appear to be important to the transactivation function. PMID- 2522556 TI - An NTP-binding motif is the most conserved sequence in a highly diverged monophyletic group of proteins involved in positive strand RNA viral replication. AB - NTP-motif, a consensus sequence previously shown to be characteristic of numerous NTP-utilizing enzymes, was identified in nonstructural proteins of several groups of positive-strand RNA viruses. These groups include picorna-, alpha-, and coronaviruses infecting animals and como-, poty-, tobamo-, tricorna-, hordei-, and furoviruses of plants, totalling 21 viruses. It has been demonstrated that the viral NTP-motif-containing proteins constitute three distinct families, the sequences within each family being similar to each other at a statistically highly significant level. A lower, but still valid similarity has also been revealed between the families. An overall alignment has been generated, which includes several highly conserved sequence stretches. The two most prominent of the latter contain the socalled "A" and "B" sites of the NTP-motif, with four of the five invariant amino acid residues observed within these sequences. These observations, taken together with the results of comparative analysis of the positions occupied by respective proteins (domains) in viral multidomain proteins, suggest that all the NTP-motif-containing proteins of positive-strand RNA viruses are homologous, constituting a highly diverged monophyletic group. In this group the "A" and "B" sites of the NTP-motif are the most conserved sequences and, by inference, should play the principal role in the functioning of the proteins. A hypothesis is proposed that all these proteins possess NTP binding capacity and possibly NTPase activity, performing some NTP-dependent function in viral RNA replication. The importance of phylogenetic analysis for the assessment of the significance of the occurrence of the NTP-motif (and of sequence motifs of this sort in general) in proteins is emphasized. PMID- 2522559 TI - Ability of p53 and the adenovirus E1b 58-kilodalton protein to form a complex is determined by p53. AB - We have investigated p53-E1b 58-kilodalton (kDa) protein complex formation during permissive and semipermissive infections with adenovirus type 5 (Ad5) dl309. While metabolic labeling studies easily detected p53-E1b 58-kDa protein complexes in transformed rat cells (XhoI-C), the same methods have not revealed complexes during infection of either human osteosarcoma cells (permissive) or normal rat kidney cells (semipermissive). Complexes were not detectable at any stage during the replicative cycle of Ad5 dl309 in osteosarcoma cells, and they could not be stabilized by using an in vivo cross-linking agent. In addition, using the E4 defective mutant Ad5 dl355, no complexes were observed either. Thus, the lack of p53-E1b 58-kDa protein complex formation during infection is not due to competition from the E4 34-kDa protein. In vitro association experiments showed that in vitro-translated mouse and human p53 could form complexes with E1b 58-kDa antigen expressed during infection. Thus, such E1b proteins are competent to form complexes. The converse experiment, in which in vitro-translated E1b 58-kDa protein was mixed with lysates of osteosarcoma cells, showed little or no p53-E1b 58-kDa protein association, even though the in vitro E1b 58-kDa protein could associate stably with p53 from cells containing endogenous p53-E1b 58-kDa protein complex. These data suggest that competence to form p53-E1b 58-kDa protein complexes resides in some property of p53. PMID- 2522558 TI - Phosphorylation of serine residue 89 of human adenovirus E1A proteins is responsible for their characteristic electrophoretic mobility shifts, and its mutation affects biological function. AB - The shift in mobility on sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis that is characteristic of the adenovirus E1A proteins is the result of posttranslational modification. In the present study, we demonstrate that phosphorylation of bacterially produced E1A in higher cell extracts occurs on serine and is responsible for the mobility shift. E1A protein expressed in Saccharomyces cerevisiae also undergoes the mobility shift due to serine phosphorylation. Site-directed mutagenesis was used to identify the serine residue responsible for the mobility shift. Six serine residues were altered to glycine within E1A. Substitution at serine residue 89 was shown to selectively prevent the mobility shift of both the 289R and 243R E1A proteins. We conclude that phosphorylation at serine 89 is the specific modification responsible for the mobility shift of E1A. Moreover, we demonstrate that the Ser-89-to-Gly mutation has no effect on trans activation or complementation of an E1A-deficient adenovirus. In contrast, the mutant protein does significantly reduce both the repression and transformation efficiency of E1A. The five other Ser-to-Gly mutation were also examined for functional effects. None affected trans activation, whereas repression and transformation functions were affected. One mutant affected transformation without affecting repression, suggesting that these functions are to some degree also separable. The relevance of phosphorylation to structure and activity of E1A and other nuclear oncogene proteins is discussed. PMID- 2522562 TI - 'Lp(a)' joins other serum cholesterol lipoproteins as risk determinant. PMID- 2522561 TI - Multivariate analysis of prognostic factors in patients with advanced prostatic cancer: results from 2 European Organization for Research on Treatment of Cancer trials. AB - The European Organization for Research on Treatment of Cancer Genitourinary Group performed a multivariate statistical analysis of prognostic factors based on 436 patients entered between 1976 and 1981 in 2 randomized prospective trials that compared 4 different hormonal treatment regimens. Only previously untreated patients with advanced (stage T3/T4/M0 or M1) prostatic cancer were eligible. After identification of prognostic factors by means of univariate analyses a multivariate analysis using Cox's proportional hazards regression model was done. This test identified performance status (according to the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group scale) as the most important factor, followed by acid phosphatase (more than 2 times normal) for stage M0 cancer patients, and alkaline phosphatase, T category and the presence or absence of associated chronic disease for stage M1 cancer patients. Based on these 4 variables nonbedridden patients with metastatic disease can be divided into 2 groups: poor and good risk patients, with median survivals of 1 and 3 years, respectively. This study shows that routine clinical and laboratory data already provide an excellent indication as to the prognosis. PMID- 2522560 TI - Upstream DNA sequences determine different autoregulatory responses of the adenovirus types 5 and 3 E1A promoters. AB - Adenovirus types 5 and 3 (Ad5 and Ad3), two human adenovirus serotypes of evolutionarily divergent subgroups, show very different levels of E1A gene expression early after infection of permissive cells. Since adenovirus E1A gene expression is known to be transcriptionally autoregulated, we have investigated the difference between Ad3 and Ad5 by monitoring transient expression of a reporter gene under transcriptional control of the E1A promoter of Ad5 or Ad3. There was only a modest difference between the basal levels of transcription driven by these two E1A promoters. This difference was amplified from 10 to 100 times by the different net responses of the E1A promoters to concomitantly expressed E1A genes. Each promoter had a characteristic net response to positive and negative regulation by E1A gene products. The Ad5 E1A promoter was more strongly repressed, whereas the Ad3 E1A promoter was more strongly activated by E1A gene products. Experiments with a chimeric Ad5/3 E1A promoter indicated that these different autoregulatory responses are determined by DNA sequences which are more than 50 base pairs upstream from the E1A transcriptional start site. A plausible target DNA sequence for positive and negative autoregulation by E1A gene products is discussed. PMID- 2522563 TI - New topical therapy for acne rosacea offers conspicuous improvement, no systemic effects. PMID- 2522564 TI - Balloon angioplasty in acute and chronic coronary artery disease. AB - Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty has grown exponentially since its introduction. Currently, selection criteria include single-vessel and multivessel disease, stable and unstable angina, and acute infarction. The outcome depends on specific patient and angiographic characteristics. In ideal lesions, success rates should be greater than 90%, with low morbidity and mortality. With more severe and diffuse multivessel disease, success rates are lower and complication rates are higher. In these cases, percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty still offers a reasonable option, provided complete revascularization can be achieved or the angina-producing lesion dilated. Numerous issues remain unresolved, including (1) the role of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty vs coronary surgery (currently being tested), (2) restenosis, which occurs in approximately 30% of treated lesions, and (3) organizational adjustments such as training and certification to maintain high standards of care. PMID- 2522565 TI - The value of coronary bypass surgery compared with medical therapy. PMID- 2522566 TI - Altered macrophage function in dietary immunoregulation. PMID- 2522567 TI - The relationship between the (beta 1-3) N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase and the presence of oligosaccharides containing lacto-N-triose II structure in bovine and human milk. AB - We measured UDP-GlcNAc:Gal (beta 1-4) Glc (or GlcNAc) (beta 1-3) N acetylglucosaminyltransferase activities in bovine (Holstein and Jersey cow) and human colostrums, and found in human colostrums sufficient activity to study the enzyme properties while not in bovine colostrums. The properties (requirements, pH optimum, acceptor specificity and Km values for lactose and N acetyllactosamine) of the enzyme from human colostrum were very similar to those from human serum and urine. The reaction product was hydrolyzed by beta-N acetylhexosaminidase, indicating that the N-acetylglucosaminyl residue was beta linked to lactose. Methylation and hydrolysis of the reaction product from lactose [3H] labeled at the terminal galactose yielded 2, 4, 6-tri-O-methyl [3H] galactose. Thus the structure of the product was demonstrated to be GlcNAc (beta 1-3) Gal (beta 1-4) Glc (lacto-N-triose II). On the other hand, bovine sera contained N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase catalyzing the transfer of N acetylglucosamine from UDP-GlcNAc to lactose. The enzyme activities were approximately 1/6-1/4 of that contained in human serum. The presence of (beta 1 3) N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase in human colostrum and its absence in bovine colostrums, apparently corresponds with the presence and absence of oligosaccharides containing lacto-N-triose II structure in colostrum. PMID- 2522568 TI - The Detsel case: limitation of school health services for special education students. PMID- 2522569 TI - Computer interview system for patients with back pain. AB - We describe a computer-based interview system for patients with back pain. The system uses a light-pen for the patient--computer interface. The questionnaire consists of over 200 multiple and single choice questions. Graphic presentations are used to identify pain patterns. The procedure has been well accepted by patients and is in routine clinical use in several hospitals. PMID- 2522570 TI - Fringe mode reflectance laser Doppler microscope system. AB - A reflectance fringe mode Laser Doppler microscope anemometer (LDMA) has been designed and tested. A novel beam splitter permits adjustment of the direction and separation of the two laser beams which form the fringe sensing volume, and furnishes the control needed to compensate for chromatic aberration and variation in optical quality. Tests conducted in a narrow 28:1 aspect rectangular flow channel filled with water showed close agreement between the predicted and measured velocity profiles. Velocity measurements, made alternately in the reflectance and transmittance modes using the same sensing volume in the channel, revealed deviations between the modes of less than 1.1% for water and 2.3% for whole blood. The deviation for the in vivo experiment was better than 2.8%. Velocity profiles were measured alternately in the same sensing volume, (dimensions were 10 x 12 microns) by reflectance and transmittance LDMA in 40 hamster cheek-pouch arterioles, ranging from 65 to 140 microns in diameter. These showed close agreement throughout the range of measured vessels. Reflectance LDMA makes non-invasive, high resolution velocity measurements in the range of 0.03 to 40 cm/s possible in small blood vessels near the surface of opaque organs and tissues. The accuracy and reproducibility of the readings were calculated to be better than 1.1%. Reflectance fringe mode LDMA greatly extends the applicability of LDMA because sites where transmittance LDMA can be applied are limited. PMID- 2522571 TI - Children's disability claims. PMID- 2522572 TI - Coronary angioplasty versus coronary bypass. Three-year follow-up of a matched series of 250 patients. AB - Two hundred fifty consecutive patients treated for one or two vessel coronary artery disease with either balloon angioplasty or surgical bypass were monitored for 3 years in a study designed to determine the comparative long-term effectiveness of each treatment. The 125 patients having angioplasty were matched with the 125 patients having bypass, so that both groups had a similar number of patients with single or double vessel disease. The two groups did not significantly differ in age, male:female ratio, New York Heart Association class, or risk factors. The ejection fraction was 54 +/- 11 in the angioplasty group and 49 +/- 12 mmHg in the surgical patients (p = 0.0031). Angioplasty was deemed initially successful in 88% (110/125), unsuccessful in 10% (12/125), and in 2% (3/125) the lesion could not be crossed. Emergency bypass was performed in 10% (12/125). Four of the 125 angioplasty patients (3%) died within 30 days. Coronary artery bypass grafting was successfully performed on the matched set of surgical patients with 99% (124/125) discharged well. There was one (1%, 1/125) surgical death. The average hospital stay per patient was 4.8 +/- 3.1 days for angioplasty and 12.1 +/- 4.2 days for bypass grafting (p = 0.0000). Three-year postprocedure follow-up was obtained on 96% (236) of the 245 patients discharged alive. A second angioplasty was required in 18%, and 11 angioplasty patients subsequently required surgical bypass. Overall, 19% (23/121) of the angioplasty patients ultimately required bypass. Four late deaths occurred in the angioplasty group, which brought the early and late mortality rates to 7% (8/121). There were two late surgical deaths, which brought the combined surgical mortality to 2.5% (3/120), p = 0.1263. Patient evaluation reveals that 63% (76/121) of the angioplasty group are alive and in New York Heart Association class I or II 3 years after one or two angioplasty procedures. This figure compares with 92% (110/120) of surgical patients alive and in the same two New York Heart Association classes (p = 0.0000). PMID- 2522573 TI - [Restenosis after coronary angioplasty is prevented by fish oil]. PMID- 2522574 TI - Resection of rhinophyma with CO2 laser. PMID- 2522575 TI - Effect of CO2 and blood media on laser probe temperature. AB - Blood may limit laser ablation of arterial plaque by decreasing thermal energy transfer from metal-capped probes to arterial occlusions. Since a gas is a good insulator of heat, CO2 may be a better medium for laser recanalization. To study this possibility, a metal-capped fiber was positioned in a segment of blood filled polyethylene tubing and activated with an argon laser. Probe temperatures were measured in blood and as the blood was displaced by flowing CO2 gas. Probe temperatures were higher at all powers studied in CO2 gas than in blood. Maximum probe temperatures averaged 518 +/- 24 degrees C after CO2 infusion versus 320 +/ 7 degrees C in blood, (P less than 0.0001). Blood aggregate formation was noted on the probe surface in blood but not in CO2 medium. Thus CO2 gas may be a preferable medium for laser recanalization, since higher probe temperatures are achieved, and the probe surface remains free of insulating blood coagulate. PMID- 2522576 TI - Physiological responses to low dose infusions of atrial peptide in conscious dogs. AB - Mongrel dogs prepared with chronic catheters in their femoral artery and vein and urinary bladder received 60 minute infusions of atrial peptide ranging from 5 to 100 ng/kg/min. Infusion of atrial peptides caused dose dependent increases in plasma atrial peptide concentration with doses of 25 ng/kg/min or less increasing plasma concentrations to levels observed in normal animals during stimulation of endogenous atrial peptide secretion. Atrial peptide infusion at doses of 10 ng/kg/min and above caused significant decreases in mean arterial pressure which were not accompanied by statistically significant changes in heart rate. Atrial peptide infusion at doses of 25 ng/kg/min and above increased urinary sodium excretion and urine flow rate. Atrial peptide infusion was without effect on plasma vasopressin, ACTH and corticosterone concentrations. However, atrial peptide infusion resulted in dose dependent decreases in plasma aldosterone concentration and plasma renin activity, but the decreases were only significant with the high physiologic (25 ng/kg/min) and pharmacologic doses (50 & 100 ng/kg/min). These data show that atrial peptide infusions in conscious dogs have minimal effects when infused in small doses that mimic endogenous atrial peptide release. At higher doses, significant effects on the cardiovascular, renal and endocrine systems can be observed but their physiological significance is unclear. PMID- 2522578 TI - Gonadal steroid and chronic morphine treatment do not change the posttranslational processing of beta-endorphin in the rat brain. AB - The present study examines whether two treatments known to induce refractoriness to exogenous morphine produce this desensitization through a change in the posttranslational processing of brain beta-endorphin (beta-End). The first experiment examined whether an ovarian steroid regimen which produces a transient desensitization of brain opiate receptor mechanisms alters beta-End processing in the preoptic area (POA), medial basal hypothalamus (MBH), and brainstem (BS). The second experiment monitored the effects of morphine pellet treatment, known to produce morphine dependency, on immunoreactive beta-End forms in the hypothalamus and periaquaductal gray area of the midbrain (PAG). The individual molecular forms of beta-End were separated using ion exchange chromatography and collection fractions were quantitated for beta-End immunoreactivity by RIA. The results show that regional differences occur in the posttranslational processing of beta-End. In the hypothalamus, MBH and POA, beta-End-(1-31) and its non-acetylated C terminal cleavage products, beta-End-(1-27) and beta-End-(1-16) were the predominant forms of beta-End. The PAG pools produced a beta-End peptide elution profile similar to the hypothalamus, although small amounts of N-acetyl-beta-End (1-31) were also identified. The BS exhibited the least posttranslational processing of beta-End; beta-End-(1-31) was the primary product with smaller amounts of beta-End-(1-27) and beta-End-(1-26) observed. However, neither ovarian steroid treatment nor chronic morphine produced any changes in posttranslational processing of beta-End or in total beta-End concentration in any of the brain regions examined in these experiments. These data indicate that the refractoriness or tolerance to exogenous morphine associated with steroid or chronic morphine treatment cannot be explained by alterations in the biological activity of beta-End resulting from the differential regulation of its posttranslational processing products. PMID- 2522577 TI - Regional brain glucose utilization during and following chronic naltrexone administration: preliminary observations in rat brain. AB - Experiments were conducted to determine some of the metabolic correlates of tonic opioid activity in the central nervous system under conditions previously examined for changes in monoamine levels. The glucose metabolic rates in seven brain regions were determined by autoradiographic visualization of 14C deoxyglucose incorporation in female rats after 8 days of chronic exposure to naltrexone pellets and 10 days after pellet removal. Autoradiographs were analyzed on a region-by-region basis to correspond to areas previously dissected and analyzed for changes in monoamine content under similar experimental conditions. Chronic administration of naltrexone resulted in a significant decrease in the metabolic activity of neurons in the striatum. Other brain areas examined under this condition were not significantly affected. Ten days following pellet removal, 14C-deoxy-glucose incorporation was indistinguishable from that determined in placebo treated rats in all brain regions examined. These results indicate that tonic opioid input is an important determinant of metabolic activity in the striatum. In addition, these results indicate that conditions previously shown to alter regional content of monoamines do not necessarily produce concomitant changes in regional glucose utilization. PMID- 2522579 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor in essential hypertension. AB - We measured circulating levels of immunoreactive atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) in 10 patients with untreated, uncomplicated mild to moderate essential hypertension and in 15 normotensive controls. ANF concentrations were significantly higher in the hypertensive group than in the control group (38.4 +/ 6.9 pg/ml versus 18.3 +/- 1.8 pg/ml, p less than 0.02). A positive correlation between ANF levels and systolic, diastolic and mean blood pressure was noted in the total study population (p less than 0.008, r = 0.52; p less than 0.005, r = 0.55; p less than 0.02, r = 0.46, respectively). Thus, plasma ANF concentrations are elevated in essential hypertension and may result from increased intraarterial pressure. PMID- 2522581 TI - [Organization of the work of the head nurse of a cardiology department]. PMID- 2522580 TI - Effect of moxisylyte hydrochloride on isolated human penile corpus cavernosum tissue. AB - The effect of moxisylyte hydrochloride on isolated human penile corpus cavernosum tissue was investigated and compared with other a-adrenergic antagonists. Moxisylyte produced a concentration-dependent relaxation of a norepinephrine induced (1 x 10(-5) M) contraction of the corpus cavernosum tissue. Pretreatment with 1 x 10(-6) M doses of moxisylyte reduced competitively the norepinephrine induced contraction. The competitive effect of prazosin was strongest among four tested agents, followed by phentolamine, moxisylyte, and then yohimbine. The activity ratio for each antagonist is 2.4 for moxisylyte, as compared with 28.2 for prazosin, 6.7 for phentolamine, and 1.6 for yohimbine respectively. Moxisylyte hydrochloride is an agent with potential clinical and research uses capable of producing erection when injected intra-cavernously. PMID- 2522582 TI - [The brigade form of the organization of the work of nurses in a polyclinic surgical department]. PMID- 2522583 TI - [The work of the nurse in an otorhinolaryngology department]. PMID- 2522584 TI - [From experiment to wide introduction]. PMID- 2522585 TI - [The team form of work organization and remuneration in a provincial hospital]. PMID- 2522586 TI - Elevated plasma levels of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) as a possible aggravating agent in congestive heart failure. PMID- 2522587 TI - A hypothesis of the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. AB - The Atrial Natriuretic Factor discovered by De Bold in 1981, is currently being investigated by biochemists, physiologists and cardiologists. The physiological effects of this hormone closely resemble the normal changes occurring in pregnancy. Based on the experimental data published, the rise in the concentration of Atrial Natriuretic Factor in normal pregnancies may explain the physiological changes of pregnancy. It is postulated that the failure to induce a rise in the plasma concentration of Atrial Natriuretic Factor with its protective effects against the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system will cause preeclampsia. A prospective study to compare serial Atrial Natriuretic Factor plasma concentrations with the pregnancy outcome from the point of view of preeclampsia is proposed to test this hypothesis. PMID- 2522588 TI - A block in mammalian splicing occurring after formation of large complexes containing U1, U2, U4, U5, and U6 small nuclear ribonucleoproteins. AB - The assembly of mammalian pre-mRNAs into large 50S to 60S complexes, or spliceosomes, containing small nuclear ribonucleoproteins (snRNPs) leads to the production of splicing intermediates, 5' exon and lariat-3' exon, and the subsequent production of spliced products. Influenza virus NS1 mRNA, which encodes a virus-specific protein, is spliced in infected cells to form another viral mRNA (the NS2 mRNA), such that the ratio of unspliced to spliced mRNA is 10 to 1. NS1 mRNA was not detectably spliced in vitro with nuclear extracts from uninfected HeLa cells. Surprisingly, despite the almost total absence of splicing intermediates in the in vitro reaction, NS1 mRNA very efficiently formed ATP dependent 55S complexes. The formation of 55S complexes with NS1 mRNA was compared with that obtained with an adenovirus pre-mRNA (pKT1 transcript) by using partially purified splicing fractions that restricted the splicing of the pKT1 transcript to the production of splicing intermediates. At RNA precursor levels that were considerably below saturation, approximately 10-fold more of the input NS1 mRNA than of the input pKT1 transcript formed 55S complexes at all time points examined. The pKT1 55S complexes contained splicing intermediates, whereas the NS1 55S complexes contained only precursor NS1 mRNA. Biotin-avidin affinity chromatography showed that the 55S complexes formed with either NS1 mRNA or the pKT1 transcript contained the U1, U2, U4, U5, and U6 snRNPs. Consequently, the formation of 55S complexes containing these five snRNPs was not sufficient for the catalysis of the first step of splicing, indicating that some additional step(s) needs to occur subsequent to this binding. These results indicate that the 5' splice site, 3' and branch point of NS1 and mRNA were capable of interacting with the five snRNPs to form 55S complexes, but apparently some other sequence element(s) in NS1 mRNA blocked the resolution of the 55S complexes that leads to the catalysis of splicing. On the basis of our results, we suggest mechanisms by which the splicing of NS1 is controlled in infected cells. PMID- 2522589 TI - Lambda phage shuttle vectors for analysis of mutations in mammalian cells in culture and in transgenic mice. AB - Foreign DNA sequences contained in lambda bacteriophage genomes integrated in mammalian DNA can be efficiently rescued into infectious phage particles by treatment of the mammalian DNA with lambda-packaging extracts prepared in E. coli. This system provides for rapid, non-selective recovery of stably integrated, chromosomal sequences into lambda phage for subsequent analysis in bacterial systems. Since rescue is prior to selection, mutations can be recovered from intact animals made transgenic for the phage-target gene sequences. Such approaches allow study of physiologically relevant aspects of mammalian mutagenesis at the molecular level. PMID- 2522590 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor and sodium intake in offspring of hypertensive and normotensive parents. PMID- 2522591 TI - When a uniquely effective drug is teratogenic. The case of isotretinoin. PMID- 2522592 TI - [Prevention of neurologic involvement caused by an atlanto-axial dislocation in persons with Down syndrome]. PMID- 2522593 TI - [Thrombolytic therapy of acute heart infarct in 1988]. PMID- 2522594 TI - [Optimal therapy following thrombolysis: aggressively or conservatively?]. PMID- 2522596 TI - [Social effects of current hemophilia treatment]. AB - The influence of modern substitution therapy on social functioning of haemophiliacs was studied by means of surveys of education and employment in 1972, 1978 and 1985. In addition we studied the physical mobility of the patients. Non-attendance at school and educational delay decreased substantially over thirteen years and the educational level of adult patients is the same as that of the general male population. Sick leave decreased also but the number of disabled did not. Considering the general rise in the number of disabled, the general unemployment situation may be partly blamed for this. Younger patients have a better physical mobility than the older ones who did not have appropriate treatment of bleedings when they were young. Trends in reduction of joint impairment and increase of physical mobility are expected to continue in the coming decades, with a positive effect on social functioning. PMID- 2522595 TI - [Results of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty in renal artery stenosis during the period 1978-1986]. AB - Two hundred and thirteen patients with hypertension and renal artery stenosis were treated with percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty (PTRA). The angiographic appearance was typical of atherosclerosis in 134 patients and of fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) in 52 patients, and could not reliably be classified in one of these groups in 27. In these patients 272 renal artery stenoses were treated. In 81% of these patients the PTRA was technically successful. The antihypertensive result in this group of 210 patients was positive (cure or improvement) in 80%. The life-table results after 5 years show cure or improvement in the atherosclerotic group (n = 35) in 80.27%, in the FMD group (n = 20) in 88.83% and in the unclassified group (n = 10) in 74.27%. One patient died from a mesenteric thrombosis and one from a myocardial infarction which both occurred within a few days after PTRA. Accordingly, the mortality was less than 1%. IN CONCLUSION: PTRA appears to be a good treatment of renovascular hypertension caused by atherosclerosis or FMD, with good long-term antihypertensive effects. PMID- 2522597 TI - The dopamine autoreceptor agonist, (+/-)-trans-1,3,4,4a5,10b-hexahydro-4-propyl 2H [1]benzopyrano [3,4-b] pyridin-9-ol hydrochloride (CGS 15855A), modulates striatal dopamine metabolism and prolactin release. AB - The effects of apomorphine and the putative dopamine autoreceptor agonist, CGS 15855A, were evaluated in several functional assays that are modulated by pre- or post-synaptic D2 receptors. These included release of prolactin in vivo and in vitro from cultured lactotrophs; levels of dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) in the striatum; levels of acetylcholine (ACh); in the striatum and concentrations of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cyclic GMP) in the cerebellum. The secretion of prolactin was inhibited by CGS 15855A in vitro and in vivo and which also decreased the levels of DOPAC in the striatum at doses 5-25 times less than those required to increase ACh in the striatum and levels of cGMP in the cerebellum. In contrast, apomorphine possessed a dose-ratio between 1.5 and 8.6 for these assay systems. These data suggest that CGS 15855A is a selective dopamine autoreceptor agonist which preferentially stimulates D2 receptors on lactotrophs and dopaminergic neurons as compared to D2 receptors on cholinergic interneurons in the striatum. PMID- 2522598 TI - A comparison of the effects of the selective 5-HT uptake inhibitor WY 27587 on 5 HT uptake into platelets and synaptosomes in the rat. AB - N-[( 1-[(6-Fluoro-2-naphthalenyl)methyl]- 4-piperidinyl]amino]carbonyl]-3 pyridine carboxamide (Wy 27587), is 320 times more potent as an inhibitor of the uptake of 5-HT than of the uptake of noradrenaline into synaptosomes from the brain of the rat with a Ki against the uptake of 5-HT of 9.2 +/- 1.4 nM. It was also a potent competitive inhibitor of the uptake of 5-HT in platelets of the rat, with a Ki value of 2.9 +/- 1.5 nM. Ex vivo studies indicated that oral administration of Wy 27587 in the rat caused a prolonged inhibition of the uptake of 5-HT into platelets; inhibition reached a maximum 15 min after administration and the ID50 was 1.5 +/- 0.3 mg/kg. PMID- 2522599 TI - Modulation of dopaminergic terminal excitability by D1 selective agents. AB - The effect of the active R (+) enantiomer of the dopaminergic selective D1 agonist 1-Phenyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydrol-(1H)-3-benzazepine-7,8-diol HCL (R-SKF 38393) was examined on the excitability of antidromically identified nigro striatal dopaminergic neurons. Striatal infusions of R-SKF 38393 produced a decrease in terminal excitability, which was reversed by subsequent infusion of the Dopaminergic D1 selective antagonist R-(+)-8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-3 methyl-5-phenyl-1H-3-benzazepine-7-o l-HCL (SCH 23390). The actions of these D1 specific agents are localized to the terminal fields of the dopaminergic neurons and are not nonspecific effects on the axonal membrane since application along the axons of these cells in the medial forebrain bundle produced no change (R-SKF 38393) or only a slight decrease (SCH 23390) in excitability. The results suggest that the terminal excitability of antidromically identified nigro-striatal dopaminergic neurons can be modified with specific Dopamine D1 receptor agents via a receptor mediated mechanism. Previous studies from this laboratory have demonstrated that the electrical excitability of nigro-striatal dopaminergic terminals is reduced by the dopaminomimetics apomorphine and amphetamine and is increased by the dopamine antagonists haloperidol, fluphenazine and sulpiride (Groves, Fenster, Tepper, Nakamura, and Young 1981; Tepper, Nakamura, Young and Groves 1984). Since, with the exception of sulpiride, these compounds affect both the D1 and D2 subclasses of dopamine receptors, it can not be concluded from these reports, which, if only one, of these receptors mediates the effect on terminal excitability.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2522601 TI - Hypersensitivity to carbamazepine presenting with a leukemoid reaction, eosinophilia, erythroderma, and renal failure. AB - We report a patient in whom hypersensitivity to carbamazepine presented with generalized erythroderma, a severe leukemoid reaction, eosinophilia, hyponatremia, and renal failure. This is the first report of such an unusual reaction to carbamazepine. PMID- 2522600 TI - Spinal cord compression: a complication of silicone-coated Dacron dural grafts. Report of two cases. AB - Two case reports of compression of the cervical spinal cord associated with silicone-coated Dacron dural grafts are presented. In both cases, the cervical spinal cord was distorted and compressed by an intense tissue reaction that encapsulated the synthetic graft. At least two factors are thought to play a role in precipitating this reaction: (1) the introduction of surface contaminants into the wound, and (2) repeated motion at the graft site. PMID- 2522602 TI - Effect of fibronectin on C3b and Fc receptor-mediated phagocytosis by peripheral blood monocytes in uraemic patients. AB - The influence of human fibronectin was evaluated on the phagocytosis in vitro of C. albicans (C3b receptor-mediated) and IgG antibody-coated sheep erythrocytes (Fc receptor-mediated) by the peripheral blood monocytes of 40 uraemic patients undergoing periodic haemodialysis. Some nutritional parameters (albumin, transferrin, C4, C3, haematocrit, lymphocyte count, height and bodyweight) were also evaluated. Results showed significantly decreased plasma fibronectin (P less than 0.001) and reduced C3b receptor (R)- and FcR-mediated phagocytosis in uraemic patients (P less than 0.001). A strict correlation was found between fibronectin and C3bR-mediated phagocytosis (P less than 0.001) and between fibronectin and FcR-mediated phagocytosis (P less than 0.05). In 20 patients with decreased fibronectin concentrations and reduced phagocytic function, the in vitro incubation of peripheral blood monocytes with 50 micrograms/ml of purified fibronectin significantly enhanced C3bR-(P less than 0.001) but not FcR-mediated phagocytosis. Study of nutritional parameters in the uraemic patients revealed that values of fibronectin, C3, IgG and albumin were significantly reduced. Fibronectin correlated significantly (P less than 0.001) with C3. A good relationship (P less than 0.05) was also found between the plasma fibronectin and bodyweight loss. A greater incidence of infectious disease was observed in patients with decreased plasma fibronectin than in uraemic patients with normal values (P less than 0.05). The results suggest that a decrease in plasma fibronectin in uraemic patients could impair the peripheral blood monocyte phagocytic capacity and be potentially dangerous, predisposing the patient to infections. The determination of fibronectin concentration in these patients may, therefore, have a potential value as an indicator of peripheral blood monocyte phagocytic function. PMID- 2522603 TI - Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of failing arteriovenous dialysis fistulae. AB - Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA), a method combining diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, was studied prospectively in 40 patients with clinically failing a-v fistulae. Forty-seven procedures were performed in 40 patients with a variety of a-v fistulae (26 Cimino, five saphenous loops, five goretex grafts, and four upper-arm fistulae). In 43 cases the procedure was initially successful. The mean time of fistula patency after first PTA was 10.06 +/- 2.10 months. Primary failures were due either to technical inability to pass the stenosis (two patients) or to vessel perforation during the attempt (two patients). Surgical intervention had to follow both perforations. Restenosis at the dilatation site occurred in six patients, and in one a new stenosis at a different site occurred; the mean time of fistula patency in these patients was 5.8 months. Our results suggest that PTA is a highly effective therapy for the majority of cases of shunt stenosis. The success rate of the method is excellent and the complication rate low. The combination of this interventional approach with the mandatory angiographic procedure if stenosis of a fistula is suspected makes PTA a favourable first-line treatment and appears to save a considerable number of surgical interventions. PMID- 2522604 TI - Alteration of kainic acid and quinolinic acid toxicity by neostriatal transplants in vitro. AB - Mature (greater than 21 days in vitro) organotypic corticostriatal cultures prepared from newborn rat brain were incubated in either kainic acid (KA) 10(-3) M or quinolinic acid (QUIN) 10(-3) M for up to 48 h. Other identical cultures were similarly incubated immediately after they had received one or two additional explants of neonatal striatal tissue placed beside each corticostriatal culture. The cultures incubated with either KA or QUIN in the presence of the neonatal striatal tissue showed better preservation than cultures incubated with KA or QUIN alone. Results suggest that the neonatal striatal explants or 'transplants' afford some protective effect against the toxicity or either KA or QUIN. PMID- 2522605 TI - Brain natriuretic peptides: differential localization of a new family of neuropeptides. AB - Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a recently discovered neuropeptide, isolated from the porcine brain, that is highly homologous to atriopeptin (AP), the atrial natriuretic peptide. We used a set of highly selective antisera against the two peptides to map their differential distribution immunohistochemically in the rat central nervous system. BNP immunoreactivity has a distinct distribution, involving many central autonomic and endocrine control structures that contain little if any AP immunoreactivity. AP and BNP belong to a family of neuropeptides that may be important in central cardiovascular control. PMID- 2522607 TI - Manipulative physiotherapy. PMID- 2522608 TI - Guillain-Barre syndrome following immunisation with synthetic hepatitis B vaccine. PMID- 2522606 TI - Striosomes and extrastriosomal matrix contain different amounts of immunoreactive choline acetyltransferase in the human striatum. AB - Cholinergic neuropil and cell bodies were identified in the human striatum by immunohistochemistry carried out with a polyclonal antibody raised against choline acetyltransferase (ChAT). The cholinergic neuropil was not uniformly distributed in the striatum, and especially in the caudate nucleus ChAT-poor zones corresponding to acetylcholinesterase (AChE)-poor striosomes were identified. Striosomal organization of ChAT-positive neuropil was also detected in striatal tissue from patients who had suffered parkinsonian and choreic disorders. PMID- 2522609 TI - Neuromuscular symptoms in patients with previous poliomyelitis: a New Zealand study. AB - Eighteen patients with old poliomyelitis were assessed in order to determine the incidence and severity of late complications. Sixty-one percent complained of new weakness, 83% fatigue and 17% muscle pain. After assessment 33% (six patients) were judged to have significant new weakness and muscle fatigue that could not be explained by other causes, and this group may have postpoliomyelitis progressive muscular atrophy or postpolio syndrome. Onset of symptoms was typically about 30 years after the acute illness; new weakness was relatively mild and progression was slow over many years. Clinically and pathologically this disorder is distinct from idiopathic motor neuron disease, and is not life threatening. PMID- 2522610 TI - Care of the homebound. PMID- 2522611 TI - Office treatment for the homebound. PMID- 2522612 TI - Sonographic measurements and ratios in fetuses with Down syndrome. AB - Ultrasound measurements of 15 fetuses with trisomy 21 detected during the 17th week of gestation were matched retrospectively to those of 45 normal controls. We compared nine standard ultrasound measurements of the fetal head, abdomen, and femur in these two groups. The fetuses with trisomy 21 had significantly shorter mean femur lengths, narrower occipitofrontal diameters, and increased biparietal diameter (BPD)/femur length and abdominal circumference/femur length ratios. An increased BPD/femur length ratio was the ultrasound finding that best predicted a fetus with Down syndrome. A BPD/femur length ratio of 1.80 or higher was 40% sensitive and 97.8% specific in predicting Down syndrome, and had a false positive rate of only 2.2%. An increased second-trimester BPD/femur length ratio measured by ultrasound may prove beneficial as an additional screening test for Down syndrome. PMID- 2522615 TI - Lifting: manual handling. PMID- 2522614 TI - Getting patients back to work. PMID- 2522616 TI - Cost-effective management of back pain. PMID- 2522613 TI - A second puncture probe for laparoscopic delivery of the Nd:Yag laser. AB - A prospective trial was initiated to determine the efficiency and safety of a laparoscopic second puncture probe designed to deliver the Nd:Yag laser. A contact technique was used to treat 32 women with either endometriosis (N = 23) or post-inflammatory pelvic adhesions (N = 9). The delivery system proved to be safe and provided easy access to all areas of pelvic pathology. The potential advantages over the CO2 laser include improved hemostasis, decreased plume formation, the ability to incise adhesions safely without a backstop, and effective transmission of the laser energy through fluids. PMID- 2522617 TI - A caring profession? PMID- 2522618 TI - Optometric care for the handicapped. AB - The need for optometric vision care for handicapped people is discussed. The high incidence of functional vision problems among the disabled population is presented. A vision clinic operated jointly by the New England College of Optometry and the Cotting School, a school for physically disabled children, is described. Suggestions for achieving successful involvement with the vision care of disabled people are presented. PMID- 2522619 TI - Steel coils. PMID- 2522620 TI - Effect of inhaled ipratropium bromide on methacholine and exercise provocation in asthmatic children. AB - To determine whether doses of ipratropium bromide (IB) greater than those usually administered by aerosol (75-250 micrograms) give a greater degree of protection from exercise-induced asthma (EIA) in children, 12 patients with chronic asthma, ages 7-13 yr, were challenged with methacholine and exercise after inhalation of saline or 125, 250, 500, and 750 micrograms of IB on different days. A small and similar bronchodilation (mean increase over baseline: 5.26%) was observed 60 min after the administration of each dose of IB. IB prevented the bronchoconstriction caused by methacholine in all doses we used without statistically significant differences between them. All doses gave an all-or-none protection from EIA. Mean percent fall in FEV1 after exercise was 36.8, 18.3, 23.7, 27.1, and 23.2 following inhalation of saline or 125, 250, 500, or 750 micrograms of IB, respectively. The degree of protection from EIA was not correlated with the bronchodilation caused by IB. We suggest that muscarinic mechanisms are only partly responsible for the pathogenesis of EIA in children. Their importance varies among subjects and also may be variable in the same subject. Alternative mechanisms may be responsible for bronchoconstriction. PMID- 2522622 TI - Mission of mercy. Interview by Toni Turner. PMID- 2522621 TI - Integration host factor (IHF) stimulates binding of the gpNu1 subunit of lambda terminase to cos DNA. AB - The lambda terminase enzyme binds to the cohesive end sites (cos) of multimeric replicating lambda DNA and introduces staggered nicks to regenerate the 12 bp single-stranded cohesive ends of the mature phage genome. In vitro this endonucleolytic cleavage requires spermidine, magnesium ions, ATP and a host factor. One of the E. coli proteins which can fulfill this latter requirement is Integration Host Factor (IHF). IHF and the gpNu1 subunit of terminase can bind simultaneously to their own specific binding sites at cos. DNase I footprinting experiments suggest that IHF may promote gpNu1 binding. Although no specific gpNu1 binding to the left side of cos can be detected, this DNA segment does play a specific role since a cos fragment that does not include the left side or whose left side is replaced by non-cos sequences, is unable to bind gpNu1 unless either spermidine or IHF is present. Binding studies on the right side of cos using individual or combinations of gpNu1 binding sites I, II and III indicate that binding at sites I and II is not optimal unless site III is present. PMID- 2522624 TI - [Biliary cysts or hepatic cysts]. PMID- 2522623 TI - Idiopathic pelvic pain. The relationship to depression. AB - Episodic and chronic idiopathic pelvic pain is enigmatic for both physician and patient. Antidepressant drug therapy combined with behavior modification techniques is beneficial in improving the functional status of some patients. Whether the decrease in frequency, intensity, and duration of pelvic pain complaints results from treatment of underlying depression or analgesic effects of the antidepressant drugs is difficult to determine. Addressing the psychological component of idiopathic pelvic pain through education and counseling is essential to long-term resolution of symptoms. PMID- 2522625 TI - [Side effects of therapeutic plasma exchange. A controlled prospective study]. AB - Solutions of human albumin are generally used as plasma substitutes during therapeutic plasma exchanges. The safety of 2 solutions of human albumin was evaluated in a multicentre, randomized, double-blind trial. Between June, 1984 and February, 1986, 80 patients who were undergoing plasma exchanges for the first time entered the study and were randomly assigned into 2 groups according to whether they received plasma albumin (PM) or placental albumin (PC). Each patient had 6 plasma exchanges over a 2-week period. Failure was defined as the occurrence of an untoward effect during an exchange. No significant difference in the number of failures was found between the 2 albumins (PM 23/40, PC 15/40; P = 0.07). However, when the type of adverse reaction was taken into account there was a significant difference between the two treatment groups regarding the number of febrile episodes (PM 8, PC 2; P = 0.043) and shivering fits (PM 9, PC 2; P = 0.023). Thus, the nature of the albumin has no significant influence on the overall safety of plasma exchanges, but it seems that different methods of preparation may affect the type of untoward effect observed. PMID- 2522626 TI - [Cardiovascular mortality as a function of left electric ventricular hypertrophy. In a male population]. AB - The prevalence of electrocardiographic left ventricular hypertrophy was studied in a population of 19,622 men born and living in France, aged from 40 to 69 years, who volunteered to have a medical check-up at the health centre of preclinical investigations, Paris, between 1972 and 1977. Enquiries were made among local authorities and physicians to determine the number of deaths and their causes. During the follow-up (median 9.5 years), 1,285 deaths were recorded. The overall cardiovascular mortality was 384 deaths: 178 patients died of ischaemic heart disease, 66 of sudden death, 93 of cerebral vascular accident and 47 of various cardiovascular diseases. The presence of an electrocardiographic left ventricular hypertrophy increased the incidence of overall mortality and all causes of cardiovascular mortality in all age-groups. An analysis of survival after adjustment for age, systolic blood pressure, cholesterol level and smoking habits indicated that left ventricular hypertrophy is indeed a predictor of total cardiovascular mortality and of mortality due to ischaemic heart disease. PMID- 2522627 TI - [Treatment of severe myasthenia gravis with cyclosporin. A 12-month open trial]. AB - Cyclosporine A, an immunosuppressor and immunomodulator, has been proposed as an alternative in patients with autoimmune disease not responding to the usual immunosuppressants. We treated with cyclosporine 19 patients with severe myasthenia gravis in a 12-month open uncontrolled trial. There were 14 women and 5 men aged 51.5 +/- 18.5 years (range 20 to 81 years) who had had the disease for 50.8 +/- 43.6 months. Myasthenia gravis was generalized in 18 and ocular in 1. Previously, 4 patients had been unsuccessfully treated with azathioprine, 1 with cyclophosphamide, 12 with steroids; 5 had undergone thymomectomy and 5 thymectomy. Anti-acetylcholine receptor antibodies (AChR-ab) were detected in the sera of 15. The severity of the disease was assessed by a myasthenic muscle score (MMS) ranging from 0 to 100 and a 5-grade functional scale (FS) from 1 = severe disability to 5 = complete remission. Depending on changes in MMS and FS, the effectiveness of cyclosporine was deemed very good, good or nil. Cyclosporine was administered orally 3 times daily in doses of 5.6 +/- 1.6 mg/kg/day over 11.6 +/- 1.6 months. The final dosage was targeted to achieve a peak serum level and a trough level respectively below 200 and 100 mg/ml, and was adapted if side effects occurred. No other cytotoxic drug was allowed. Seventeen patients completed the treatment (M12); 1 died of uterine cancer at M6 and 1 was lost to follow-up at M5. At M12 clinical results were considered very good in 6 patients, good in 8, nil in 3. The MMS increased significantly from 56.1 +/- 17.2 (n = 19) at D0 to 83 +/- 15 (n = 17) (P less than 0.0005), as did the FS, from 2 +/- 1 to 3.7 +/- 0.85 (P less than 0.0005). Subsequently, cyclosporine was discontinued in 7 of the 14 patients who responded well and maintained in 7 at a reduced dosage (3.4 +/- 0.8 mg/kg/day). In the former group 3 patients relapsed 1, 1 and 5 months respectively after the drug was withdrawn; the remainder had, at the last follow-up (29.6 +/- 8.5 months from D0), MMS 62.9 +/- 34.1 and FS 3 +/- 2. In the latter group, at the last follow-up (17.6 +/- 3.6 months), MMS was 86.7 +/- 16.6 and FS 4.2 +/- 0.8, differing significantly from D0 values. AChR-ab titers and CD4/CD8 were unaltered at M12.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2522628 TI - [Unilateral lung transplantation in panlobular emphysema]. AB - Out of 8 unilateral transplantations, 5 were performed for panlobular emphysema. The operation and the post-operative period were highly satisfactory, although the oldest patients, those who had lost much weight, had prolonged post-operative asthenia. Only 2 patients could be followed up for a sufficient length of time; the functional result is favourable, except for stenosis of the suture in one case. PMID- 2522630 TI - [Surgery of aorto-iliac aneurysm. A simplified technic of hypogastric revascularization]. PMID- 2522629 TI - [Variations in the metabolism of lipoproteins as a function of thyroid hormones]. AB - Like the demonstrated action of thyroid hormones on low density lipoproteins receptors and lipoproteins metabolism enzymes, plasma lipoprotein assays provide an insight into the classical variations of cholesterol blood levels observed in thyroid gland pathology. Thyroid hormones seem to play an important part in the regulation of lipid metabolism by accelerating the endogenous production of cholesterol as well as its penetration into cells. However, their most original effect consists of stimulation of tissue cholesterol removal, which may confer these hormones an anti-atherogenic property. The exact underlying mechanisms, notably their effect on the quantitative and qualitative distribution of apoproteins among lipoproteins, remain to be explored. Measurements of the cholesterol flows entering and leaving peripheral cells seem to provide a more accurate index than lipoprotein concentration to evaluate the actions of thyroid hormones, particularly those on atherogenesis. PMID- 2522631 TI - [Effect of milk fermented with Bifidobacterium longum on colonic fermentation]. PMID- 2522632 TI - [Identification by electrophoretic immunofixation of an immunoglobulin D myeloma with serum and urine free light chains]. PMID- 2522633 TI - [Multiple thrombosis and thrombocytopenia due to heparin occurring after plasma exchange]. PMID- 2522634 TI - [Ventricular fibrillation of a favourable course during perfusion with fluorouracil]. PMID- 2522635 TI - [Development of natriuretic atrial factor in pregnancy]. PMID- 2522636 TI - [A strange poisoning caused by vitamin D]. PMID- 2522637 TI - [The "third testis" of cyclists, in women too...]. PMID- 2522638 TI - [The association of sarcoidosis and AIDS]. PMID- 2522639 TI - [Bilateral hydrocele after treatment of bilateral inguinal hernia by sub peritoneal prosthesis: a rare occurrence?]. PMID- 2522640 TI - [The laser in cardiology]. PMID- 2522641 TI - [Is migraine an allergic disease?]. PMID- 2522642 TI - [Echography of the flexor tendons of the fingers]. AB - The accuracy of high-resolution real-time ultrasonic examination of the flexor tendons of the fingers was tested in a retrospective study of 27 patients treated surgically. In ruptured tendons (8 cases) the method proved sensitive and specific, except in cases of partial rupture. Ultrasound made it possible to distinguish between extrinsically developed palmar masses (8 cases) and masses involving the tendons (4 cases). A fluid collection inside the tendon sheath was detected in 5 cases of tenosynovitis, without false-positive results. The post operative follow-up of surgically treated tendons (2 cases) was easier with ultrasound. PMID- 2522643 TI - [Treatment of achalasia by pneumatic dilatation]. AB - Between 1979 and 1988, 60 patients with achalasia were treated by pneumatic dilatation under general anaesthesia, using the Rider-Moeller apparatus. The diagnosis rested on clinical, radiological, manometric and endoscopic criteria. These 60 patients underwent a total of 99 dilatations: 63.3 per cent were dilated once and 37.7 per cent were dilated several times. Forty seven of the 60 patients were followed up for more than 12 months (mean: 44 months): 2 of them (4.2 per cent) had to be operated upon, while 45 (95.7 per cent) are asymptomatic. Immediate complications were perforation in one case and cardial fissure in another; both were treated medically and cured. There was no oesophagitis or peptic stenosis, and no patient died. These results are compared with those found in the literature. The authors underline the simplicity, safety and effectiveness of pneumatic dilatation and suggest that it should be used as first-line treatment of achalasia, surgery being performed only when dilatation fails. PMID- 2522644 TI - [Non-occlusive mesenteric ischemia in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis]. AB - Non occlusive mesenteric ischaemia is a serious complication of maintenance haemodialysis. Its physiopathological mechanisms are controversial and its frequency is underestimated. Eight cases (in 5 patients) are reported: the clinical syndrome consisted of acute abdominal pain without evidence of shock or abdominal wall rigidity at palpation, associated with hyperleucocytosis and hyperkaliemic acidosis. The normality of the mesenteric vessels was confirmed at autopsy in one patient and during surgery in all others. Two patients were found to have caecal necrosis, 2 had diffuse necrotizing enterocolitis and 1 had necrosis of the left colon. The prognosis of this complication is sombre: 4 of our 5 patients died, including 3 who had relapsed 1, 4 and 18 months respectively after surgery (diffuse ileocolic necrosis). The usually accepted physiopathological mechanism is volaemic contraction consecutive to haemodialysis in often atheromatous subjects; however, the fact that the mesenteric infarction is not occlusive, that it occurs sometime after the end of the haemodialysis session and above all, the lack of haemodynamic changes during or immediately after the session suggest that other factors (bioincompatibility) are involved. PMID- 2522645 TI - [Hepatic hypertrophy after right hepatectomy of traumatic rupture]. AB - The clinical, biochemical and morphological features of a massive hepatic hypertrophy is reported. It occurred in a young female patient with multiple injuries who had undergone right liver resection for traumatic liver rupture and right nephrectomy for rupture of the right renal artery. Subsequently, the patient developed deficiency of several organs, together with a septic state which led to her death 3 months after the trauma. The factors responsible for this massive hepatic hypertrophy (3,950 g) are discussed. PMID- 2522646 TI - [The lung in brain death. Anatomo-biological correlations for pulmonary transplantation]. AB - Histopathological studies of the lung conducted during multiple organ procurement from 25 subjects in a state of brain death showed that 19 of them had lung lesions pre-existent to coma, viz. alveolitis and lung invasion by dusts increasing with the subject's age. Alveolar or interstitial emphysema and subpleural bullae caused by mechanical ventilation were present in 19 cases; signs of bronchial inertia were found in 6 cases and established superinfection in 3 cases. Finally, 17 subjects showed interstitial and vascular alterations induced by oedema and shock which were related to the time spent in intensive care units, to the cause of the coma and to the quantity and quality of intravenous received while in intensive care unit. There were histological correlations between these various factors, but precise criteria concerning the functional prognosis of the transplant could not be defined. However, this study seemed to confirm the need for a new approach to the intensive care of brain-dead subjects during lung procurement: the time elapsed before procurement should be shortened, the amount of medicinal solutions administered should be reduced, Ringer lactate and packed cells should be used in preference to albumin derivatives, and arterial blood pressure, rather than diuresis, should be maintained. PMID- 2522647 TI - [Hysteroscopic resection of the uterine septum]. AB - An endoscopic alternative to the surgical treatment of uterine septum is presented. The hysteroscopic technique of septal division is described on the basis of 7 preliminary cases, with emphasis on the equipment used, the choice of the irrigation system, the problems encountered near the fundus uteri, where it is important to spare the myometrium, and the adjuvant treatments, notably in the post-operative period. Interventional hysteroscopy has a very low trans--and post operative morbidity and seems to be a suitable procedure for the treatment of this type of uterine malformation. PMID- 2522648 TI - [Does mefloquine concentrate in the parasited red cell?]. PMID- 2522649 TI - [Presence of an oncofetal antigen, beta 2-microglobulin in the preovulation follicular fluid]. PMID- 2522650 TI - [The association of myasthenia gravis, primary biliary cirrhosis and insulin dependent diabetes]. PMID- 2522651 TI - [Frequency of articular chondrocalcinosis in 2 ethnic groups]. PMID- 2522652 TI - [False hyperphosphoremia in multiple myeloma]. PMID- 2522653 TI - [Selective ending of biamniotic twin pregnancy at 20 weeks of amenorrhea because of fetal abnormality]. PMID- 2522654 TI - [Re-evaluation of the TNM classification of cancers of the carena]. PMID- 2522655 TI - [Pleural mesothelioma in a HIV seropositive patient]. PMID- 2522656 TI - [Renal insufficiency disclosing granulomatous interstitial nephropathy of sarcoidosis]. PMID- 2522657 TI - Stability analysis of simple models for immune cells interacting with normal pathogens and immune system retroviruses. AB - A mathematical analysis is presented for several simple dynamical systems that might be considered as crude descriptions for the situation when an immune system retrovirus, immune cells, and normal autonomously replicating pathogens interact. By stability analysis of the steady-state solutions, the destabilizing effect of the immune system retrovirus is described. The qualitative behavior of the solutions depending on the system parameters is analyzed in terms of trajectories moving in a phase space in which the axes are defined by the population numbers of the interacting biological entities. PMID- 2522658 TI - Interleukin 1 as an autocrine growth factor for acute myeloid leukemia cells. AB - Production of interleukin 1 (IL-1) by leukemic cells was studied in 13 cases of acute myeloid leukemia. Intracytoplasmic immunofluorescence studies showed that the cells invariably contained the cytokine. Endogenous labeling studies demonstrated that acute myeloid leukemia cells produced either only the 33-kDa propeptide or both the propeptide and the 17-kDa mature form of IL-1 beta. The 33 kDa propeptide IL-1 alpha was always produced but was less frequently released. Involvement of IL-1 in leukemic cell growth was investigated using two antibodies specific for IL-1 subtypes, which inhibited spontaneous cell proliferation in the six cases studied. After acid treatment of the cells, a surface receptor for IL-1 could be demonstrated, which mediated 125I-labeled IL-1-specific uptake by leukemic cells. Furthermore, recombinant IL-1 alpha or IL-1 beta induced significant cell proliferation in 10 of 12 cases. The above findings were uncorrelated with the cytologic type (French-American-British classification) of leukemia. Our studies suggest that IL-1 may act as an autocrine growth factor in most cases of acute myeloid leukemia. PMID- 2522659 TI - Ovarian steroid treatment blocks a postmenopausal increase in blood monocyte interleukin 1 release. AB - In previous studies, we showed that blood monocyte elaboration of interleukin 1 (IL-1), a known stimulator of bone resorption, was higher in osteoporotic patients with rapid bone turnover than in those with slow turnover and in nonosteoporotic subjects. Since an acceleration of bone loss following menopause contributes to the risk of osteoporosis in women, we have studied the effects of menopause and ovarian steroid treatment on IL-1 release by monocytes obtained from nonosteoporotic and osteoporotic women. IL-1 activity in the monocyte culture medium derived from untreated postmenopausal women (nonosteoporotic and osteoporotic) was higher than in the medium derived from either untreated premenopausal or estrogen/progesterone-treated postmenopausal women. A significant negative correlation was found between IL-1 and years since menopause in both the healthy (r = -0.75; P less than 0.005) and the osteoporotic (r = 0.61; P less than 0.01) untreated postmenopausal women. The difference between the two slopes was significant at P less than 0.05. Premenopausal IL-1 levels were achieved within 8 years of menopause in the nonosteoporotic, but not in the osteoporotic, subjects in whom increases were evident as long as 15 years after menopause. IL-1 also correlated inversely with vertebral mineral density (r = 0.37; P less than 0.05), as measured by quantitative computed tomography. In prospective studies, treatment with estrogen/progesterone for 1 month caused a substantial highly significant decrease in IL-1 activity in each of three nonosteoporotic and five osteoporotic women, confirming the apparent effect of hormone therapy observed in the cross-sectional analysis. Although a cause-effect relationship has not been established, it is our hypothesis, based on these data, that alterations in IL-1 production may underlie the postmenopausal acceleration in bone loss and its inhibition by ovarian steroids. Persistent elevation of IL-1 secretion appears to be a feature of postmenopausal osteoporosis. PMID- 2522662 TI - Study presentation questioned. PMID- 2522660 TI - Molecular basis of adult-onset and chronic GM2 gangliosidoses in patients of Ashkenazi Jewish origin: substitution of serine for glycine at position 269 of the alpha-subunit of beta-hexosaminidase. AB - Chronic and adult-onset GM2 gangliosidoses are neurological disorders caused by marked deficiency of the A isoenzyme of beta-hexosaminidase; they occur in the Ashkenazi Jewish population, though less frequently than classic (infantile) Tay Sachs disease. Earlier biosynthetic studies had identified a defective alpha subunit that failed to associate with the beta-subunit. We have now found a guanosine to adenosine transition at the 3' end of exon 7, which causes substitution of serine for glycine at position 269 of the alpha-subunit [designated 269 (Gly----Ser) substitution]. An RNase protection assay was used to localize the mutation to a segment of mRNA from fibroblasts of a patient with the adult-onset disorder. That segment of mRNA (after reverse transcription) and a corresponding segment of genomic DNA were amplified by the polymerase chain reaction and sequenced by the dideoxy method. The sequence analysis, together with an assay based on the loss of a ScrFI restriction site, showed that the patient was a compound heterozygote who had inherited the 269 (Gly----Ser) mutation from his father and an allelic null mutation from his mother. The 269 (Gly----Ser) mutation, in compound heterozygosity with a presumed null allele, was also found in fetal fibroblasts with an association-defective phenotype and in cells from five patients with chronic GM2 gangliosidosis. It was not found in beta-hexosaminidase A-deficient cells obtained from patients with infantile Tay Sachs disease nor in cells from individuals who do not have beta-hexosaminidase A deficiency. However, there must be additional mutations with similar consequences, since the 269 (Gly----Ser) substitution was not present in fibroblasts from two patients with juvenile GM2 gangliosidosis even though these had an association-defective alpha-subunit. PMID- 2522661 TI - Role of renal prostaglandins in the action of ramipril (HOE-498) in normotensive rats. AB - Changes in blood pressure, plasma renin activity, urine volume, urinary PGE2, 6 keto-PGF1 alpha and kinins, were studied after the administration of the angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor ramipril (100 mu/kg/day), for one week in concomitantly indomethacin (1 mg/kg/day) treated and untreated rats. Measurements were made basally, before Ramipril administration and on days 1 and 7 during the treatment. Ramipril given alone induced a decrease in urinary PGE2 (NS) and 6 keto-PGF1 alpha (p less than 0.05) on day 1, together with an increase in urinary kinins on day 7 (p less than 0.01) and in urine volume on days 1 and 7 (p less than 0.05). Increased urinary PGE2 (NS) and 6-keto-PGF1 alpha (p less than 0.05) were observed in indomethacin pretreated rats after ramipril administration. No modifications in BP levels were observed either with indomethacin or with ramipril given alone or with ramipril plus indomethacin. Ramipril increased plasma renin activity levels both in indomethacin treated and untreated rats on days 1 (p less than 0.01) and 7 (p less than 0.05). The diuretic effect of ramipril and the stimulation of kinins were blunted when concomitant indomethacin was administered. Although a stimulatory effect of ramipril on urinary PGS was only observed during indomethacin administration, the present results would suggest that a non-inhibited PGS synthesis would be required for the renal actions of Ramipril. PMID- 2522663 TI - [Lethal and mutagenic effect of incorporated 6-3H-pyrimidines on extracellular phage lambda]. AB - A study was made of lethal and mutagenic effects of 6-3H-thymidine and 6-3H cytosine, incorporated into DNA, on extracellular phage lambda. The lethal effects of both 6-3H-pyrimidines (the number of lethal hits per 3H decay) do not differ from those of [3H-methyl]thymidine and 5-3H-cytosine. The mutagenic effects (at equal survival rates) are as follows: 6-3H-thymidine approximately 3H2O less than [3H-methyl]thymidine less than 6-3H-cytosine less than 5-3H cytosine. UV-irradiation of host cells induces a more pronounced W-mutagenesis with 6-3H-cytosine than with 6-3H-thymidine. PMID- 2522664 TI - [The effect of genotype on the induction of prophage lambda in E. coli cells by ionizing radiation of various LET]. AB - A study was made of the influence of the repair genotype on lambda prophage induction by ionizing radiation of different LET in lysogenic E. coli cells. Bacterial strains W3110, P3478, GC244, and 30SO were exposed to gamma-rays and helium ions of 22 keV/microns. Induction of the prophage in GC244 and 30SO strains deficient by lexA and recA genes was either inhibited (GC244) or lacking (30SO). Inducibility of P3478 carrying polA mutation was 12 and 5 times as high as that of the wild type strain after exposure to gamma-radiation and helium ions, respectively. PMID- 2522666 TI - Arterial occlusive disease below the knee. PMID- 2522665 TI - Determination of left ventricular mass with ultrafast CT and two-dimensional echocardiography. AB - Conventional methods for determining mass of the left ventricle (LV) require geometric assumptions. Eleven patients were studied with ultrafast computed tomography (CT) and with two-dimensional echocardiography (2-D echo) for calculation of LV mass. With ultrafast CT, calculations were performed on end systole images and end-diastole images for each patient. Comparisons of the results from ultrafast CT with those from 2-D echo were made with linear, Spearman rank, and interclass correlation coefficients, as well as with slope and intercept values of regression lines. Adequate ultrafast CT and 2-D echo studies were obtained in nine of the 11 patients. After the systolic and diastolic ultrafast CT determinations of LV mass were averaged, the results demonstrated excellent agreement with the 2-D echo determinations (slope = 1.0 +/- 0.20, r = .89, P less than .002). PMID- 2522667 TI - Serotonin uptake inhibitors attenuate ethanol intake in problem drinkers. AB - There are several problems with the drugs currently used to decrease alcohol consumption (i.e., alcohol-sensitizing drugs, such as disulfiram). Their efficacy is unproven, they are associated with toxicity, and there are several contraindications for use. New therapies are needed because alcohol-related problems affect almost 20% of the adult population. A new strategy was developed that involves attenuation of alcohol intake via serotonin uptake inhibitors. Since several experiments showed that serotonin uptake inhibitors consistently attenuated ethanol intake in rats, we tested their effects in humans. In four randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies serotonin uptake inhibitors (zimelidine, citalopram, viqualine, and fluoxetine) decreased total number of drinks consumed by early stage problem drinkers by an average of 20-30%. However, marked interindividual variations in the pattern of response to serotonin uptake inhibitors have been observed, and we have been unable to identify subject traits or drug factors that predict pattern of response. Effects on ethanol intake are distinct from the antidepressant properties of these drugs, and they are most likely due to facilitation of satiety signals. Because of these promising and consistent results, further testing in a therapeutic context is under way. Serotonin uptake inhibitors suggest an innovative approach for moderating ethanol intake in problem drinkers. PMID- 2522668 TI - The impact of psychosocial factors on adapting to physical disability: a review of the research literature. AB - Physically disabled persons are challenged to cope with a wide range of stressors in maintaining meaningful lives. Adjustment depends, in part, on psychological and social factors that promote effective coping with old and new demands. This article is a review of current research on the relationship of social support, self-concept, locus of control, and hardiness to the adjustment of persons with physical disabilities. Implications and a psychosocial assessment guide are presented to help rehabilitation nurses evaluate patients' psychosocial status and formulate interventions. PMID- 2522669 TI - Working with families: an intervention model for rehabilitation nurses. AB - This article describes a model for working with families of disabled persons. The proposed model suggests knowledge and skills that help the family adjust to the changes imposed by a disability and become partners in the rehabilitation process. Particular attention is focused on identifying family needs, with an emphasis on short-term intervention at specific "trigger" points in the rehabilitation process. Time-limited intervention strategies, education, support, and prevention also are described. PMID- 2522670 TI - [The status of travel by severely handicapped patients by railroads]. AB - An essential prerequisite for integrating disabled persons is their mobility. The special transport approach, both in terms of handling capacity and cost involved, is increasingly turning out to be unable to achieve future-oriented solutions in this context. Disabled people wish to use the transport services available to the general public. They therefore demand public transportation policies to provide for their access to the mainstream system, ideally independent of outside assistance. Deutsche Bundesbahn, the German federal railways, in the field of tension between the need to orient its business policies on economic and financial considerations and disabled persons' demands that vehicles and premises be designed in a barrier-free manner, seeks to achieve solutions that are responsive to users' needs and at the same time economically justifiable. On account of the 19th century infrastructure legacy and a wide range of rolling stock in long- and short-distance rail travel, this can however be realized only step by step. The facilities offered to disabled people so far range from free use of short-distance trains to the accessibility-oriented design of coaches for the Intercity Express, the future of the railways in the European rapid transit network. The various services and facilities provided are hoped to foster disabled persons' decision in favour of the environmentally compatible rail mode of travelling. PMID- 2522671 TI - Clinical aspects and spectrum of illness of toxic shock syndrome: overview. PMID- 2522672 TI - [Children and winter sports]. PMID- 2522673 TI - [Hepatitis B vaccine: GenHevac B Pasteur suspension for intramuscular injection]. PMID- 2522674 TI - Care for the caregivers. PMID- 2522675 TI - [Computed tomographic and angiographic studies of arterial liver perfusion following intra-arterial infusion chemotherapy using 5-fluoro-2-deoxyuridine]. AB - Fifty patients with liver metastases from colorectal primaries underwent hepatic intraarterial chemotherapy using 5-fluoro-2-deoxyuridine as an antitumour agent. Repeated computed tomography and angiography of the liver was performed during a follow-up period of a year. Following six months of regional chemotherapy, arterial perfusion abnormalities of the liver were detected in 40 of the total of 50 patients. After one year of intraarterial chemotherapy normal arterial liver perfusion was found in only two patients. Histology revealed thrombotic occlusion or narrowing of hepatic arteries, respectively. PMID- 2522676 TI - Continuous measurement of gastric blood flow by laser-Doppler flowmetry during gastroscopy. AB - Endoscopic laser-Doppler flowmetry (LDF) of gastric blood flow (GBF) was performed simultaneously with intragastric manometry to detect a possible correlation between GBF and luminal pressure during gastroscopy. By increasing luminal air pressure from 10 to 20 cm H2O a significant reduction in GBF was observed. Regional differences in GBF were also demonstrated. Variations in luminal air pressure have a significant influence on GBF as measured by LDF, and therefore intragastric manometry and standardization of intraluminal air pressure is necessary in endoscopic LDF measurements. PMID- 2522677 TI - [Lumbar spinal stenosis syndrome in the experience of a rheumatologic-geriatric clinic]. AB - In the geriatric patient differential diagnosis of low back pain with sciatica includes degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis, affecting the central canal, the lateral recesses or both. Symptoms usually begin in the sixth decade, but may occur earlier if spinal degeneration is superimposed on congenital stenosis. In the elderly early diagnosis is more difficult to establish, because of the bewildering medical problems and the multiple symptoms rooted in the polypathy and polymorbidity of old age. Typical symptoms include low back pain, claudicatory pains, and paraesthesias of the legs, typically aggravated by standing and relieved by rest. In our series they were present in 100%, 94% and 56% respectively. In our series, the most important clinical investigations confirming diagnosis were pain provocation by reclining and pain relief by inclination (present in 69% of patients) and combined radiographic examination including plain films, computed tomography and myelography. In our experience myelography proved the best single method for early diagnosis. In our elderly patients lateral stenosis was predominant, and therefore lateral decompression by foraminotomy, generally combined with flavectomy, was the most important surgical procedure. In cases with combined lateral and central stenosis, hemilaminectomy or facetectomy was also performed. In follow-up 1 to 5 years after the operation the success rate, determined by very restrictive criteria, was 87%. Therefore, and because failure to establish early diagnosis potentially leads to definitive invalidity, degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis should be considered more frequently in the differential diagnosis of low back pain of the elderly.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2522678 TI - Mutagenicity and alkylating activity of the aqueous chlorination products of humic acid and their molecular weight fractions. AB - Fluka humic acid used as a model substrate in these studies was analysed for elemental and the oxygen-containing functional groups. It was chlorinated at C:Cl molar ratios of 1:1 and 1:0.3 and subsequently separated into molecular weight fractions by ultrafiltration. The freeze-dried, chlorinated humic acid and the respective molecular weight fractions were analyzed for TOC, TOX, alkylating activity using 4-(p-nitrobenzyl)pyridine and mutagenicity by the Ames/Salmonella/microsome assay with strains TA-98 and TA-100. Results indicated that predominantly non-volatile, direct-acting mutagenic and/or alkylating agents were formed during humic acid chlorination and that these agents were unevenly distributed among the various molecular weight fractions. Formation of mutagenic and alkylating agents were highly dependent upon level of chlorination and total organic carbon. Higher levels of mutagenic and alkylating activities were produced with increasing concentration of chlorine in the range of 0.4-1.2 chlorine equivalents per mole of carbon. However, both these activities in the freeze-dried, chlorinated humic acid solutions containing the non-volatiles or the fresh solutions decreased gradually with increasing pH and storage time, apparently due to degradation and hydrolysis of some of the components. PMID- 2522679 TI - The mutations in Ashkenazi Jews with adult GM2 gangliosidosis, the adult form of Tay-Sachs disease. AB - The adult form of Tay-Sachs disease, adult GM2 gangliosidosis, is an autosomal recessive disorder that results from mutations in the alpha chain of beta hexosaminidase A. This disorder, like infantile Tay-Sachs disease, is more frequent in the Ashkenazi Jewish population. A point mutation in the alpha-chain gene was identified that results in the substitution of Gly with Ser in eight Ashkenazi adult GM2 gangliosidosis patients from five different families. This amino acid substitution was shown to depress drastically the catalytic activity of the alpha chain after expression in COS-1 cells. All of these patients proved to be compound heterozygotes of the allele with the Gly to Ser change and one of the two Ashkenazi infantile Tay-Sachs alleles. These findings will aid in the diagnosis and understanding of beta-hexosaminidase A deficiency disorders. PMID- 2522680 TI - Rehabilitation for employment. The Rehabilitation Centre of the Association for the Physically Disabled at Bridgetown, Athlone, CP. AB - Results of rehabilitation of physically disabled people for employment on the open labour market over the period 1975-1985 are presented. Out of 680 eligible clients, 53% were successfully placed. When corrected for uncontrollable withdrawals and uncontrollable dismissals the success rate rises to 77% (363 of 471 clients). The drop-out rate of 16% for preventable reasons and a partially preventable wastage of 31% are highlighted for potential action and improvement. The main reasons for admission were trauma (motor vehicle accidents, assaults and industrial injuries), poliomyelitis and congenital abnormalities in a ratio of 4:3:1. These groups accounted for 82% of all admissions. The problem of adequate evaluation and screening to predict outcome reliably is discussed and the use of a modified version of the International Classification of Impairments, Disabilities and Handicaps of the World Health Organisation is advocated. Of those clients who were successfully placed, 75-80% remained in employment for more than 1 year and 55-60% for more than 2 years. On the whole, the rehabilitation process appears to lead to successful re-integration into the working community for most of the physically disabled persons admitted to the Centre. PMID- 2522681 TI - The occupational medicine clinic of the National Centre for Occupational Health. AB - The clinic of the National Centre for Occupational Health is described as an example of a referral clinic for occupational disease. The activities and limitations of the clinic are described. Trends relevant to the development and running of such clinics in the RSA are considered. Features of clinical occupational medicine which distinguish it from other medical specialties are discussed, as is the problem of where to site such a clinic. PMID- 2522682 TI - Income and assets of Social Security beneficiaries by type of benefit. AB - The SIPP data have provided a first look at the relative economic status of various types of Social Security beneficiaries. They have shown that the different types of Social Security beneficiaries face very different economic circumstances. Retired workers and wife beneficiaries have the highest family incomes adjusted for family size. Aged widows and minor children have the lowest family incomes, with high proportions of poor or near poor. And disabled workers are in between, but also have high proportions of poor or near poor. Retired worker and wife beneficiary households also have considerably more asset holdings than disabled-worker or widow beneficiary households. Beneficiaries with high family incomes are very likely to live with relatives and to rely heavily on the relatives' income. The high-income families tend to have non-means-tested sources of family income other than Social Security amounting to substantial proportions of their total income and to have high asset holdings. Conversely, beneficiaries with low family incomes are very likely to live alone or with nonrelatives, to rely heavily on Social Security and means-tested benefits, and to have low asset holdings. A majority of ever-poor beneficiaries (with the exception of widow beneficiaries) are poor in only some months of a year. This situation is not consistent with the stereotype of beneficiaries living on fixed incomes. But the change in poverty status is often due to a change in the income of other family members rather than of the beneficiary. And in some cases, a change in poverty status occurs with little or no change in income as the cost of living rises. PMID- 2522683 TI - Infusional versus systemic chemotherapy for liver metastases from colorectal cancer. AB - It is clear from these studies that intrahepatic arterial infusion of floxuridine produces significantly higher response rates than does systemic infusion of the same drugs. Nevertheless, survival is the most important consideration when comparing two methods of treatment, and at present, there is only a slightly improved survival rate in those patients who receive intrahepatic infusional therapy. However, palliation of the patient and the effect on the quality of life should be taken into account, and these high response rates suggest an effective palliative measure to be offered to patients with this advanced disease. It is hoped that in the future the development of methods to identify those patients who will respond to this form of therapy, together with new ways to increase drug uptake by the tumors, will translate the better response rates achieved into better survival rates. PMID- 2522685 TI - [Treatment of nail mycoses]. AB - Onychomycosis is defined as an infection of the nail unit by fungi. Four clinical types of onychomycoses are recognized by the manner in which the nail plate is invaded. A combined therapy with elimination of the nail by surgical extraction or a chemical onycholysis, a short systemic antifungal therapy and a topical treatment until the healthy nail has grown is recommended. PMID- 2522684 TI - Chemoinfusion of the hepatic artery for metastases to the liver. AB - During a five year period, 69 patients were treated for carcinoma of the liver (seven primary tumors and 62 metastatic tumors) with 5-fluorodeoxyuridine (5 FUDR) administered through a hepatic artery (n = 62) or portal vein (n = 3) implantable infusion pump. Ten patients proved to have previously unsuspected extrahepatic nodal metastases at laparotomy for pump insertion. 5-FUDR was given in 14 day cycles for three months. At the end of that period and at three month intervals thereafter (mean follow-up time of 18 months, a range of one to 60 months), patients were evaluated with roentgenograms of the chest, liver function tests, carcinoembryonic antigen levels, radionuclide scans and computed tomography. Thirty-five patients had a partial response, nine had stabilization of the disease and 25 had progression of the disease (five during therapy, who were given mitomycin C). Median regression was 6.8 months (a range of three to 18 months). Six of the 35 partial responders, three of the nine patients with stabilization and ten of the 25 patients with progression had extrahepatic visceral disease. Survival time averaged 18.4 months (a range of five to 60 months) for the partial responders, 12.6 months (a range of two to 40 months) for patients with stabilization and seven months (a range of one to 17 months) for those with progression of the disease. PMID- 2522686 TI - [Current therapy of acne vulgaris]. AB - The treatment of acne vulgaris depends on its causes. The focal point of its etiopathogenesis is the raised sebum production, but a major part is also played by the proliferative and retentive hyperkeratosis in the infra-infundibulum and the proliferation of acne bacteria. Since the clinical syndrome of acne consists of many factors, combined treatment is always required. Besides from treating the seborrhoea, the hyperkeratosis and the inflammatory alterations, it is very important to provide psychological guidance for the patient. We discuss the individual active substances and explain their application and side effects. Thanks to the new powerful active substances which have been available in the last few years to the therapist, he is in a position of successfully treating over 90% of patients suffering from acne thanks to individually adapted and differentiated treatment; but this also forces him to assimilate his knowledge continuously to the newest standard. PMID- 2522687 TI - [Practical aspects of local steroid treatment]. AB - Dermatocorticosteroids, the extent of whose effects show extraordinary differences, are principally applied in the case of skin inflammations and hyperproliferative skin diseases. Side effects, especially a dermally atrophizing effect, but also the provocation of rosacea, rosacea-like dermatitis and steroid acne, make it necessary to apply a treatment with as few side-effects as possible. Here in particular, therapy in steps and, to a lesser extent, interval therapy have proved themselves as being valuable. It is best to restrict oneself to a few dermatocorticosteroids, contained as far as possible in the same hypoallergenic base at varying concentrations. Thus the risk of sensitization and the different penetration levels depending on localization and dermatosis are taken into full account. A combined therapy with antibiotics is not indicated as a rule, and a combination with antimycotics should be restricted to a short period of time only. PMID- 2522689 TI - Pathogenesis of early thrombus formation in experimental vein graft. AB - When inferior vena cava of rabbit was replaced by 3 cm long woven Tetron (polyethylene terephthalates) graft under bolus injection of heparin (50 U/kg), the graft was completely occluded at 1.5 +/- 0.35 h after the bolus injection of heparin. In order to elucidate the pathogenesis of this early thrombus formation, the same venous grafting was performed in rabbits receiving anticoagulants and/or anti-platelet agents and the thrombus formation was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy as well as by measuring the weight of dehydrated thrombus. The grafts in rabbits receiving an additional bolus heparin were patent until the anticoagulant effect disappeared and the thrombus formed in these grafts was composed of platelet aggregates anchored to synthetic fibers and of erythrocytes trapped into fibrin network. The patency of the graft was maintained at least 5 hours in rabbits receiving intravenous injection of aspirin (20 mg/kg) or oral administration of ticlopidine (100 mg/kg/day x 5 days prior to the grafting). The weight of dehydrated thrombus of the graft in aspirin and ticlopidine treated rabbits was 25 +/- 5 and 12 +/- 4 mg respectively, which were significantly lower than that of control group (59 +/- 9 mg). Ultrastructural studies revealed in these grafts piles of erythrocytes with fibrin network which were layered over the synthetic fibers without bridges of platelet aggregates. Also, the treatment with anti-platelet agents, especially ticlopidine, resulted in inhibition of organization of fibrin network. These observations indicate that thrombus in venous graft is formed by anchorage of platelet aggregates to synthetic fibers followed by activation of coagulation to form network of polymerized fibrin entrapping erythrocytes.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2522688 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide concentrations in hypoxic secondary pulmonary hypertension: relation to haemodynamic and blood gas variables and response to supplemental oxygen. AB - Plasma atrial natriuretic peptide concentrations, measured in samples drawn from the pulmonary artery, were raised in nine of 17 patients with hypoxic pulmonary hypertension but normal right atrial pressures at rest. No relationship was seen between atrial natriuretic peptide concentrations and mean pulmonary artery or right atrial pressure, or calculated pulmonary or systemic vascular resistance. Patients with the most severe hypoxaemia tended to have higher plasma atrial natriuretic peptide concentrations; three patients with no past history of oedema had concentrations more than twice the upper limit of normal. Treatment with supplementary oxygen for 30 minutes reduced pulmonary vascular resistance in all patients but had no significant effect on plasma atrial natriuretic peptide concentration. These findings suggest that atrial natriuretic peptide may be a factor in the control of sodium and water balance in hypoxic cor pulmonale, where the determinants of individual susceptibility to peripheral oedema are not well understood. PMID- 2522690 TI - On the cytotoxicity of chrysotile asbestos fibers toward pulmonary alveolar macrophages. II. Effects of nicotinamide on the cell metabolism. AB - Since it was recently shown that the addition of nicotinamide (NAM) to pulmonary alveolar macrophages (PAM) cell monolayers significantly altered their ATP pools (Nadeau and Lane, 1988), the effects of the vitamin on the metabolism of the cells, exposed or not to very short chrysotile asbestos fibers (VSF), were evaluated. First, it was found that the addition of NAM to the culture medium caused a dose-dependent (5-30 mM) decrease in the extracellular liberation of lactate and pyruvate by PAM. This is suggestive of a direct effect of NAM on the metabolism of glucose. A decrease in extracellular lactate was also observed when control PAM were exposed to 50 micrograms of VSF asbestos. This latter effect was however progressively abolished when the NAM was added to the asbestos-exposed cell monolayers. Second, contrary to the lactic acid production, the exposure to chrysotile caused an increase in the extracellular liberation of pyruvate by PAM. This cell response to the asbestos fibers could represent an antioxidative defense mechanism. Yet, interestingly enough, this effect of the VSF on PAM was not suppressed by the presence of the vitamin. The NAM also induced a dose dependent decrease in the total lactate dehydrogenase content of PAM monolayers. By comparison, 3-aminobenzamide (up to 5 mM) did not appreciably modify these parameters. After an 18-hr incubation period with 20 mM NAM, the NAD+ pools of control PAM increased by approximately 300% comparatively to a approximately 40% increase for the NADP+ content. The exposure to the VSF asbestos caused a dose dependent depletion of the cellular NAD+ and NADH pools. However, for the latter, the vitamin prevented the depletion effect of the asbestos fibers. Comparatively, the NADP(H) pools increased. This shift toward the phosphorylated pyridine nucleotide forms could also represent a defense of the cell against the oxygen radicals produced during the ingestion of the fibers. Overall, it is shown that changes in the energy metabolism could be implicated in the toxicity of chrysotile asbestos fibers toward PAM, and that the cells seem to be able to respond to an oxidant stress. Although not fully elucidated at the present time, these data tend nonetheless to point out that the protective effect of NAM could involve some modifications of the host defenses against prooxidants. PMID- 2522691 TI - NAD+ levels and glucose uptake of cultured human epidermal cells exposed to sulfur mustard. AB - In cultured human epidermal cells exposure to the vesicant sulfur mustard (HD) causes a decrease of the NAD+ content, which depends on the dose and the time period between exposure to HD and NAD+ measurement. Presumably, this NAD+ loss is due to activation of the enzyme NAD:protein ADP-ribosyltransferase (ADPRT) and may lead to glycolysis inhibition, disturbance of energy metabolism, and eventually cell death. Since prevention of this NAD+ depletion could lead to cell survival, HD-exposed cultures have been incubated with nicotinamide, a precursor of NAD+ and an inhibitor of ADPRT. Although a reduction in NAD+ levels of the cultures can be prevented, the uptake of glucose, which was taken as a measure for cellular viability, appears to be inhibited in cultures in which the NAD+ levels are at the 100% level at 4 hr after exposure. Therefore, prophylactic or therapeutic measures that are focused on maintenance of NAD+ levels in order to preserve energy supplies do not protect human epidermal cells in culture that have been exposed to HD. These experiments indicate that mechanisms other than NAD+ depletion may play an important role in HD-induced cell injury in human skin. PMID- 2522692 TI - [Treatment of Paget's osteitis deformans]. AB - Specific treatment of osteitis deformans (OD, Paget's disease of bone) is indicated when symptoms are associated with signs (biochemical or by bone scintigraphy) of active disease. OD in the base of the skull and osteolytic lesions in weight-bearing bones should be treated irrespective of symptoms. The effect of calcitonin (CT) on symptoms and skeletal blood-flow is achieved rapidly and healing of osteolytic lesions may occur. However, CT is only effective in approximately 60%, is discontinued due to side effect in 20% of patients, and must be administered parenterally. EHDP (Etidronate) is administered orally but the use of even small doses carries a risk of mineralisation defect and possibly fracture. EHDP should, therefore, be given intermittently and should not be used in osteolytic lesions of weight-bearing bones. Second-generation bisfofonates are devoid of this side effect and are very effective in OD. The effect of mithramycin is only transient and because of the risk of serious side effects the use should be restricted to severe cases of OD resistant to the other lines of treatment. PMID- 2522694 TI - [Abdominal fibromatosis in a 58-year-old male patient]. AB - We report on a 58 year-old male patient, in whom abdominal fibromatosis occurred 3 years after laparotomy and irradiation on account of rectal cancer. Abdominal fibromatosis are very rare tumour-like fibrous lesions of the anterior muscular abdominal wall, mainly affecting fertile females. Men, however, are only rarely affected and without age preponderance. A hereditary or mutant generalized defect of growth regulation of fibrous tissue is considered to be the cause of this disease; moreover, trauma, hormonal effects and pregnancies often play a role as cofactors. Interestingly, there is a high correlation between abdominal fibromatoses and osseous lesions of the femur, mandible and thoracic, as well as lumbar spine. In our case thoraco-lumbar Scheuermann's disease was detected. PMID- 2522695 TI - [Problems with dental prosthesis and dental filling materials: results of epicutaneous tests, consequences and follow-up]. AB - Positive ECT results were found in 29 out of 70 patients (41%) tested for suspected denture sore mouth syndrome. 11 of them reacted to nickel (16%), 4 to benzoyl peroxide, 4 to mercury chloride, but only 3 out of 38 patients reacted to their own prosthetic material. A follow-up study covered a group of 31 patients with dentures. 20 of them had mechanical or material changes made, but only 4 because of ECT results (1 nickel, 1 benzoyl peroxide, 1 own prosthetic material). After elimination of the suspected allergen, these 4 patients showed improvement, but the symptoms did not completely clear. A similar beneficial effect was seen in 13 of the 20 patients, whose dentures were only mechanically adapted; but 6 out of 11 patients without any dental correction showed improvement, as well. Our results suggest that clinically relevant contact allergies are rare in patients with burning mouth syndrome. Mechanical, microbial, and psychic factors have to be taken into consideration, as well. PMID- 2522693 TI - Ewing's sarcoma. A retrospective study of histological and immunohistochemical factors and their relation to prognosis. AB - Histological and immunohistochemical features of 87 patients with conventionally diagnosed Ewing's sarcoma were studied retrospectively on routinely processed material and evaluated with regard to prognostic significance. 74% were convincingly positive when stained for vimentin, 13% were doubtful, and 13% were negative. A varying degree of positivity for neuron-specific enolase (NSE) was found in 15%; these cases all co-expressed vimentin. A single tumour contained scattered cytokeratin-positive cells. Positivity for the leukocyte common antigen (LCA) could be demonstrated in three cases; these were excluded from the statistical analysis of prognostic factors. Growth pattern, soft tissue invasion, monomorphic or dimorphic cell population, and PAS-, NSE- or vimentin-positivity did not influence survival significantly. However, prognosis was increasingly poor with increasing degree of necrosis: median survival was 28 months for grade I necrosis (less than 10%), 16 months for grade II (10-50%), and 11 months for grade III (greater than 50%), p less than 0.0005. A mitosis count of less than 1 per high-powerfield (HPF) was correlated to a median survival of 26 months, greater than or equal to 1 per HPF to 12 months, p less than 0.05. The findings indicate some degree of heterogeneity in Ewing's sarcoma which may be related to primitive peripheral neuroectodermal tumours (PNETs), or be a true blastoma. In future trials, diagnostic criteria (including immunohistochemistry) should be clearly defined and materials should be large enough to allow for stratification according to prognostic factors. PMID- 2522696 TI - [The significance of dermatologic management in computer-assisted occupational dermatology consultation]. AB - At our occupational outpatient clinic, 230 patients were treated for about 15 months. With the help of a standardized questionary, we registered all the data regarding the relevant substances the patients contacted during their work as well as their various jobs since they left school. The patients were repeatedly seen and trained in procedures of skin care and skin protection. If required, we took steps to find new jobs for them within their employing company; this was done in cooperation with the trade cooperative association according to the dermatological insurance consultanship. If these proceedings did not work out, the patient had to change his profession altogether. All data were computerized. As an example for this computer-based documentation we present the data of barbers. PMID- 2522697 TI - [The irritant effect of dithranol using capillary resistance measurement]. AB - The effect of topically applied dithranol on the capillary resistance (CR) was studied both in healthy volunteers and in clinically unaffected skin of psoriatic patients. The CR of the psoriatic patients was significantly lower than that of the healthy persons. O.10% and 0.25% dithranol ointment induced a significant decrease of CR in the skin of both groups. This decrease was prevented or at least reduced, if the patients had previously been treated with either the antihistamine clemastine or the cyclooxygenase-inhibitor indomethacin. The effect of dithranol on the CR was also moderated, if 5% coal tar had been added to the dithranol preparation. PMID- 2522698 TI - Platelet disposition at angioplasty sites and platelet survival time after PTA in iliac and femoral arteries. PMID- 2522699 TI - Vanadate inhibition of mitochondrial respiration and H+ ATPase activity in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. AB - The effects of vanadate on mitochondrial respiration and H+ ATPase activity in Saccharomyces cerevisiae were studied. A 50% inhibition of oxygen uptake in isolated mitochondria was produced by 4.4 mM-V2O5. Activity of H+ ATPase in whole mitochondria was inhibited by 50% by 5.5 microM-V2O5, in submitochondrial particles by 55 microM-V2O5; and in the chloroform-released H+ ATPase by 0.5 mM V2O5. Vanadate was also found to relieve growth inhibition caused by the mitochondrial H+ ATPase inhibitors NN'-decyclohexylcarbodiimide and oligomycin. These results imply that vanadate could affect mitochondrial respiration by interacting with the H+ ATPase in S. cerevisiae. PMID- 2522700 TI - The helper T lymphocyte as a secretory cell. Constitutive versus regulated secretion. PMID- 2522701 TI - Class I antigen presentation. PMID- 2522702 TI - Primary malignant lymphoma of the uterine corpus and cervix. Report of a case with immunocytochemical analysis. AB - In a 69-year-old woman, a gynecologic smear was the first indication of the presence of a nonepithelial malignant tumor. While first thought to represent an adenocarcinoma, malignant lymphoma was later cytologically suspected because of the presence of isolated large malignant cells with macronucleoli. The initial clinical and histologic studies failed to indicate a malignancy. The malignant cells in postoperative tissue samples showed a positive immunohistochemical reaction for leukocyte-common antigen (LCA) and a negative reaction for epithelial membrane antigen, confirming the cytologic suggestion of a uterine lymphoma. Immunocytochemical staining subsequently performed on the destained cytologic specimen gave a positive immunoreactivity to LCA in the cytoplasm of the malignant cells. PMID- 2522703 TI - Variations in the plasma concentration of atrial natriuretic factor across 24 hours. AB - There is little information available concerning the presence or absence of a normal variation in the circulating concentration of atrial natriuretic hormone throughout a 24 h period. We have examined this in 8 normal subjects (aged 23-35 years) on a fixed 120 mmol Na+ diet. Circulating levels of ANH, plasma renin activity, serum aldosterone and serum cortisol were determined two-hourly during 24 h in a supine position. There was a significant change in the concentration of each of these four hormones during the study period (P less than 0.05). ANH: peak 8.5 (22.00 h), nadir 4.0 (12.00 h) (pmol/l); PRA: peak 1.7 (04.00 h), nadir 0.8 (22.00 h) (microgram.l-1.h-1); aldosterone: peak 350 (14.00 h), nadir 143 (22.00 h) (pmol/l); cortisol: peak 346 (08.00 h), nadir 51 (22.00 h) (nmol/l). Peak plasma ANH occurred at 22.00 h and with the exception of times 20.00 h and 10.00 h this value was significantly higher than all the other time means (P less than 0.05). The only other significant differences were between plasma ANH at 20.00 h and 06.00 h, 08.00 h, 12.00 h and 14.00 h, respectively (P less than 0.05). From midnight until 18.00 h, there was no significant difference between any of the time means. There was a peak in PRA at 04.00 h, while peak serum aldosterone and serum cortisol occurred at 14.00 h and 08.00 h, respectively. This study suggests that ANH may display a diurnal rhythm. Our findings provide further physiological evidence that plasma ANH and PRA may have a reciprocal relationship. PMID- 2522704 TI - A deficient response of atrial natriuretic peptide to volume overload in Gordon's syndrome. AB - Gordon's syndrome was diagnosed in a 19-year-old woman who had hypertension, hyperkalemia and hyperchloremic acidosis. In family screening, hyperkalemia and hyperchloremic acidosis were also found in the patient's mother and brother. The proband and her brother were studied and showed normal glomerular function with normal renal sodium conservation and urine acidification mechanisms. The levels of plasma aldosterone were normal in both subjects. The renin activity was low in the proband but normal in the brother. Both the basal and the volume-stimulated plasma concentration of atrial natriuretic peptide was low in the two patients. As compared with controls, the kaliuretic response to infusion of sodium chloride was not decreased in the patients. Hydrochlorothiazide promptly corrected the acidosis and the hyperkalemia as well as normalized the raised blood pressure of the proband. We suggest that a deficiency of atrial natriuretic peptide rather than an unusual avidity for sodium chloride reabsorption by the renal tubules plays a significant pathogenetic role in Gordon's syndrome. PMID- 2522705 TI - Elevated angiotensin II and vasopressin in primary hyperparathyroidism. Angiotensin II infusion studies before and after removal of the parathyroid adenoma. AB - In order to evaluate the role of calcium metabolism in blood pressure regulation, 15 patients with primary hyperparathyroidism and 9 healthy control subjects were studied before and during angiotensin II infusion. The patients were re investigated 2-5 months after removal of the parathyroid adenoma. Blood pressure, plasma levels of angiotensin II, aldosterone, arginine vasopressin, and atrial natriuretic peptide, and creatinine clearance were determined. Blood pressure and the blood pressure response to angiotensin II infusion were both the same before and after the operation. Angiotensin II and arginine vasopressin during basal conditions were significantly higher before than after the operation (angiotensin II: 17 (median) to 10 pmol/l, P less than 0.02; arginine vasopressin: 2.9 to 1.9 pmol/l, P less than 0.01), whereas aldosterone, atrial natriuretic peptide, and creatinine clearance were unchanged. During angiotensin II infusion, aldosterone, arginine vasopressin, and atrial natriuretic peptide increased to approximately the same levels before and after the operation. Blood pressure was not correlated to any of the hormones measured. Thus, patients with primary hyperparathyroidism have elevated plasma levels of angiotensin II and arginine vasopressin which may be compensatory phenomena counteracting volume depletion owing to a decreased renal concentrating ability induced by hypercalcemia, and owing to PTH-induced inhibition of renal sodium reabsorption. PMID- 2522706 TI - Platelet dysfunction in acute megakaryoblastic leukemia. AB - Platelet function profiles were studied in 3 patients with megakaryoblastic leukemia. All patients had a moderate decrease in platelet counts with abnormal platelet retention. One patient who developed hemorrhagic diathesis had prolonged bleeding time. In all patients platelet aggregation was defective after the addition of ADP, collagen, adrenaline, or U46619, a thromboxane A2 agonist. Malondialdehyde was reduced in all patients, as was platelet serotonin. Plasma beta-thromboglobulin levels were normal in all cases whereas PF4 was markedly elevated in one. Platelet dysfunction was not reversed by clinical remission. These studies confirm that megakaryoblastic leukemia is associated with a thrombocytopathy which may play a role in hemorrhagic diathesis and should be taken into account in the management of these patients. PMID- 2522707 TI - Submicroscopic study of the vestibular dark cell area in human fetuses. AB - The purpose of this study was to determine the characteristic ultra microstructure of the vestibular dark cell area related to inner ear metabolism at mid-term human embryonic development. This is when the general inner ear structures apparently attain their final development. Two types of epithelial cells, dark cells and light cells, are discernible in the vestibular dark cell areas. The morphology of the dark cells is described and their role in the metabolism of endolymph and otoconia is indicated. Little is known about the nature and presence of the light cells in mammals. The present study has revealed the ultra-microstructure of the light cells and indicates their secretory function in otoconia metabolism. The dark and light cells seem to be closely related to each other in the metabolic function of the dark cell area. PMID- 2522708 TI - The effect of arginine-vasopressin and its analogues upon the endocochlear potential in the guinea pig. AB - The effect of arginine-vasopressin (AVP) and its analogues upon the endocochlear potential (EP) was examined in the guinea pig. AVP decreased the EP reversibly and dose-dependently like lysin-vasopressin (LVP). V1 antagonist failed to block the effect of AVP upon the EP. V2 agonist reversibly decreased the EP like AVP. The results suggest that V2 receptors mediate the action of vasopressin on the EP. PMID- 2522709 TI - Immunohistochemical study of murine middle ear and Eustachian tube. AB - The localization of the immunocompetent cells and secretory component (SC) of the middle ear and Eustachian tube (ET) was investigated in healthy, non-immunized BALB/c mice, using immunohistochemical methods. Utilizing specific antisera against murine cell associated antigens and SC, we investigated the distribution of macrophages and granulocytes (Mac-1+ cells), helper T cells (Lyt-1+ cells), suppressor/cytotoxic T cells (Lyt-2+ cells), immunoglobulin-bearing cells (IgA, IgG, IgM) and SC in the middle ear and ET. Mac-1+ cells were found to be the most predominant cell type, followed in descending order by Lyt-1+ cells, IgA+ cells, Lyt-2+ cells, IgG+ cells and IgM+ cells. Lyt-1+ cells were found in the lamina propria, whereas Lyt-2+ cells were detectable in the epithelium of the ET. SC was seen predominantly within the tubal and glandular epithelial cells. These findings suggest that the distribution of the immunocompetent cells and SC in the ET is similar to that seen in secretory immune sites elsewhere in the body. PMID- 2522710 TI - Influence of middle ear effusion on perilymph. AB - To investigate the influence of middle ear effusion (MEE) on perilymph (PL), an experimental otitis media with effusion (OME) was provoked in chinchillas by injecting the tympanic cavity with immune complexes. MEE remained for up to 9 days after the injection of immune complexes. PL was aspirated on the 4th, 10th, and 21st day after the inoculation. The mean concentrations of albumin, IgG, and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) were significantly greater in PL from OME induced ears than in that form normal control ears. 3H-PGE2 placed on the round window membrane of pathologically affected ears passed into PL in significantly greater amounts than in normal controls. The findings of the present study indicate that MEE affects the biochemical environment of PL. However, this influence was transient and reversible. PMID- 2522711 TI - Relationship between antigen levels in middle ear and antigen passage through round window membrane in antigen-induced otitis media. AB - By using an antigen-induced (Arthus) otitis media (OM) model in chinchillas sensitized with human serum albumin (HSA), we investigated the passage of HSA through the round window membrane (RWM) by measuring HSA levels in both the middle ear fluid (MEF) and the perilymph (PL). The effect of corticosteroid treatment on HSA passage was also studied. Mean HSA levels in both the MEF and the PL were proportional to the HSA dose administered (0.5, 5, 50 mg/ml). The proportion of HSA-positive PL samples was significantly lower in the sensitized group than that of the control (p less than 0.01). HSA levels in the PL appear to depend on HSA levels in the MEF, which were significantly depressed in the sensitized animals. These results suggest that an immunological reaction may be involved in the reduction of antigen (HSA) passage through the RWM by reducing antigen concentrations in the MEF. Corticosteroid treatment reduces the passage of HSA into the PL in non-sensitized animals. PMID- 2522712 TI - Sensorineural hearing loss in antigen-induced otitis media. AB - Chinchillas were sensitized with human serum albumin (HSA). When circulating antibody-titers were sufficiently elevated as to induce local inflammation, 1 ml of HSA (50, 5, 0.5 mg/ml) was instilled into the left middle ear cavity from the superior bulla. HSA containing a steroid agent was instilled into the right ear. Non-sensitized animals were used as control. In the sensitized animals, a significant hearing loss occurred at higher frequencies. The loss was dose related. Less severe hearing loss was found following steroid treatment. We conclude that sensorineural hearing loss can occur in antigen-induced otitis media. PMID- 2522713 TI - The veteran athlete: an echocardiographic comparison of veteran cyclists, former cyclists and non-athletic subjects. AB - To determine the effects of prolonged endurance training on the heart, a comparison was made of veteran cyclists aged 41-51 years, former cyclists, and non-athletic subjects, including echocardiography, ECG, systolic and diastolic time intervals, and maximal oxygen uptake. The veterans had significantly larger diastolic diameter, systolic diameter, thickness of septum, posterior wall, and left ventricular mass. The enlargement of the left ventricle was found to be proportionate, as the ratio of diastolic diameter to wall thickness showed no change. In contrast to earlier reports, no indication of reduced cardiac function was found in the veterans, as echocardiographically measured function parameters, systolic, and diastolic time intervals were similar in the three groups. In the former athletes, whose previous training experience was similar to that of the veterans, no significant variation in cardiac structure and function was found in relation to the control group. This indicates that the physiological hypertrophy caused by physical training can be reversible. PMID- 2522714 TI - Radiologic aspects of low back pain and sciatic syndromes. PMID- 2522715 TI - Angioscopic observation of the coronary luminal changes induced by percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. AB - Coronary luminal changes induced by percutaneous balloon or laser coronary angioplasty were examined angioscopically in 10 patients with ischemic heart disease. A fiberscope (2.6F to 5.3F) was introduced into the coronary artery with the use of a guiding catheter with or without a balloon at the tip. Angioscopy was successful before angioplasty in nine and after angioplasty in 10 of 11 coronary segments. Before angioplasty, the stenotic segments were composed of yellowish or whitish atheromatous plaques with smooth surfaces or spiral folds in patients with stable angina pectoris. In one patient with unstable angina pectoris, the stenotic segment was scalloped angiographically and showed an irregular and whitish plaque angioscopically. After angioplasty, endothelial exfoliation with scattered thrombi (10 segments), bellows-like folds (two), longitudinal cleft (one), plaque rupture (two), and intimal dissection (two) could be identified angioscopically. These changes, with the exception of dissection, could not be identified angiographically. In one patient who underwent thermal argon laser angioplasty, the dilated segment appeared brownish, which indicated carbonization. In one patient with acute myocardial infarction, the occlusive thrombi were vaporized by thermal laser angioplasty. The results demonstrate the clinical feasibility of percutaneous angioscopy for pathologic documentation of coronary luminal changes before and after angioplasty. PMID- 2522716 TI - Effect of 18- to 24-hour heparin administration for prevention of restenosis after uncomplicated coronary angioplasty. AB - Smooth muscle cell proliferation induced by intimal denudation similar to that produced by coronary angioplasty has been decreased by early and brief heparin administration in animal models. Heparin might also decrease the incidence of thrombus-induced postdenudation arterial obstruction, albiet at risk of bleeding. To evaluate the risks and benefits of heparin after coronary angioplasty, 416 patients (469 vessel sites) with successful coronary angioplasty without large dissection were randomized to heparin (titrated to partial thromboplastin time 1.5 to 2.5 times normal) or dextrose administered for 18 to 24 hours. Patients also had received heparin during angioplasty (usually 10,000 to 15,000 units), and they received aspirin for a period of 6 months. Heparin and dextrose groups were not different in the percentage of patients with male sex (74% in the heparin group and 75% in the dextrose group, p = NS), postangioplasty tear or dissection (30% in the heparin group and 30% in the dextrose group, p = NS), or postangioplasty percent stenosis greater than 35% (31% in the heparin group and 30% in the dextrose group, p = NS). Partial thromboplastin time during treatment in the heparin group was 56 +/- 22 seconds and in the dextrose group 27 +/- 9 seconds (p less than 0.001). Late angiographic follow-up (180 +/- 81 days) was achieved in 58.4% in the heparin group and 64.5% in the control group. Of patients with late angiographic follow-up, 41.2% and 36.7% randomized to heparin and dextrose, respectively, had documented restenosis (greater than or equal to 50% diameter stenosis at one or more the sites dilated) (p = NS).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2522717 TI - Is the residual translesional pressure gradient useful to predict regional myocardial perfusion after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty? AB - Routine assessment of the severity of a coronary artery lesion with coronary cineangiography is limited by its variability and poor correlation with blood flow and postmortem findings. In this investigation, we compared the usefulness of the final coronary artery translesional pressure gradient and the final angiographic coronary percent stenosis to assess immediate percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) success. To accomplish this, pressure gradients and percent stenoses were compared to stress thallium-201 regional myocardial perfusion before and after 56 uncomplicated PTCAs in 51 patients with single-vessel coronary artery disease. There were 39 men and 12 women; their mean age was 59 +/- 12 years. No patient had evidence of myocardial infarction. A new quantitative method to assess regional myocardial perfusion was used. Patients exercised for 433 +/- 130 seconds before PTCA and for 545 +/- 126 seconds after PTCA (p less than 0.001). Group coronary stenosis and translesional pressure gradient decreased from 77 +/- 11% and 48 +/- 5 mm Hg, respectively, before PTCA, to 25 +/- 11% and 9 +/- 5 mm Hg, respectively, after PTCA (p less than 0.001). Regional myocardial perfusion in the segment of the diseased (dilated) coronary artery increased after PTCA from 77 +/- 17% to 94 +/- 9% (p less than 0.001). Although a significant relationship was noted between regional myocardial perfusion and percent stenosis and translesional pressure gradient, a large individual scatter was present (r values lower than 0.55). We conclude that the final translesional pressure gradient during PTCA is not a better measure of immediate PTCA success than the angiographic percent stenosis. PMID- 2522718 TI - Angina preceding myocardial infarction and residual coronary narrowing after intracoronary thrombolysis. AB - Thirty-six consecutive patients with evolving acute myocardial infarction underwent emergent coronary angiography and intracoronary thrombolysis with urokinase. Nineteen of the patients had had angina before the infarction (group A), whereas the infarction was unheralded in the remaining 17 (group B). Thirty two vessels (88%) were patent at follow-up angiography performed after 3 to 4 weeks, and the residual stenosis was 87% +/- 14% in group A and 47% +/- 25% in group B (p less than 0.001). Coronary spasm was provoked by ergonovine maleate in four of 12 patients in group A (33%) and in three patients in group B (18%). Coronary revascularization was undertaken in nine patients in group A and three in group B. These results indicate that patients with angina preceding acute myocardial infarction are more likely to have significant stenosis even at the late follow-up stage and to have a more urgent need for subsequent coronary revascularization. It also seems apparent that thromboembolism in most patients and coronary spasm in a few patients without significant coronary narrowing play significant causal roles in the onset of acute myocardial infarction. PMID- 2522719 TI - Plasma levels of atrial natriuretic peptide during myocardial ischemia induced by percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty or dynamic exercise. AB - To study the effects of myocardial ischemia on plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) levels, immunoreactive ANP levels in the pulmonary artery (ANP-PA) and femoral vein (ANP-V) were measured before and during percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA). Ten patients (group 1), seven of whom had no symptoms during PTCA, maintained a normal mean pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) of less than or equal to 13 mm Hg during PTCA, whereas five patients (group 2), all of whom had symptoms and signs of ischemia during PTCA, had an increased PCWP of greater than or equal to 20 mm Hg. ANP levels did not differ significantly between the two groups before PTCA, but ANP-PA (p less than 0.02) and ANP-V (p less than 0.01) during PTCA were higher in group 2 than in group 1. ANP-V at rest and during exercise was measured in 11 patients with and 14 patients without anginal symptoms and ischemic ST changes on the ECG during exercise. The values did not change significantly in either group, and there were no difference between the groups. Thus myocardial ischemia during PTCA may lead to left ventricular dysfunction serious enough to increase PCWP and subsequently plasma ANP levels in some patients. Myocardial ischemia induced by dynamic exercise seems to be unrelated to significant changes in the plasma ANP level. PMID- 2522720 TI - Restenosis after angioplasty: don't rely on the exercise test. PMID- 2522721 TI - Which aortic coarctations should we balloon-dilate? PMID- 2522722 TI - Effects of intravenous metoprolol on global and regional left ventricular function after coronary arterial reperfusion in acute myocardial infarction. AB - Coronary reperfusion in myocardial infarction improves infarct zone motion, but its effect on the global ejection fraction has been less consistent. The directional movement of the ejection fraction is determined by the opposing influences of improved infarct zone motion and diminishing hyperkinesia in the noninfarct zone. Noninfarct zone hyperkinesia has been attributed to catecholamine stimulation, the Frank-Starling mechanism or intraventricular interactions that unload noninfarcted segments. To investigate the influence of catecholamine stimulation, 9 men presenting with a first myocardial infarction (mean age 53 +/- 13 years) were studied. Coronary reperfusion was accomplished less than 4 hours after the onset of myocardial infarction. Radionuclide ventriculography was then performed before and immediately after the intravenous administration of 15 mg of metoprolol. End-diastolic volume did not change, but end-systolic volume increased 28% after metoprolol (p = 0.041). The ejection fraction decreased from 55 +/- 13% before metoprolol to 45 +/- 14% after its administration (p = 0.002). There was no effect of intravenous metoprolol on infarct zone motion, whereas motion in the noninfarcted segment decreased (p = 0.002). The patients underwent repeat ventriculography after receiving metoprolol, 100 mg orally twice a day for 9 days. Infarct zone motion improved (p less than 0.002) and the ejection fraction increased to 55 +/- 12% (p less than 0.02). Normal zone motion did not change. Thus, compensatory hyperkinesia is at least in part caused by catecholamine stimulation. Conclusions regarding the effects of reperfusion on global ventricular performance can be influenced by the timing of ejection fraction determinations relative to metoprolol therapy. PMID- 2522724 TI - Spontaneous coronary artery dissection treated with percutaneous transluminal angioplasty. PMID- 2522723 TI - Celiprolol in systemic hypertension. AB - The safety and efficacy of orally administered celiprolol, a new beta 1-selective adrenergic blocking drug with peripheral beta 2-agonist properties, were assessed in 91 patients with mild to moderate systemic hypertension (supine diastolic blood pressure [BP] 95 to 114 mm Hg without medication) using a placebo controlled, double-blind, randomized, titration-to-effect study design. All patients received placebo for 4 weeks and were then randomized to receive placebo (n = 46) or once-daily celiprolol (n = 45), which was titrated every 2 weeks (200, 400, 600 mg/day) over a 6-week period to achieve a reduction in supine diastolic BP to less than or equal to 90 mm Hg. Plasma lipids and lipoproteins were also assessed at baseline, during placebo and after randomization to active therapy in a subgroup of patients. Compared with placebo, celiprolol reduced supine and standing BP (reduction of supine BP -0.4/-2.1 mm Hg with placebo, 5.7/-6.4 with celiprolol, p less than 0.05; reduction of standing BP -1.7/-1.0 with placebo, -7.2/-4.9 with celiprolol, p less than 0.05). Supine heart rate was reduced by 6.8 beats/min with celiprolol compared with 2.0 beats/min with placebo (p less than 0.05). No differences were seen when the effects of placebo and celiprolol on plasma lipoproteins were compared. Celiprolol is a safe, effective and well tolerated once-daily antihypertensive drug and has no detrimental effects on plasma lipids. PMID- 2522725 TI - Effect of beta-adrenergic blockade on plasma atrial natriuretic factor and cardiac volumes during exercise in normal men. PMID- 2522726 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor concentration in congenital heart disease. PMID- 2522727 TI - Risk factors, time course and treatment effect for restenosis after successful percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty of chronic total occlusion. AB - Advances in technology and operator experience, and increased use of angiography early after myocardial infarction have led to greater use of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) for chronic, total coronary artery occlusions. To better assess long-term outcome, 257 consecutive patients with successful PTCA of a total occlusion with late angiographic follow-up from 484 patients (53%) with PTCA success were reviewed. The mean +/- standard deviation patient age was 54 +/- 10 years, 79% were men, the duration of total occlusion was 11 +/- 15 weeks and the post-PTCA diameter stenosis was 24 +/- 12%. Eighty two, 27 and 63% of patients received long-term aspirin, dipyridamole and warfarin therapy, respectively. Angiography at 8 +/- 8 months demonstrated restenosis (greater than or equal to 50% diameter stenosis) in 41% of patients restudied within 6 months and in 66% of patients restudied within 12 months by life table analysis. In multivariate regression analysis of 19 variables, 2 were independently correlated with the occurrence of restenosis: post-PTCA diameter stenosis greater than 30% (p = 0.02) and coronary artery dilated (left anterior descending and right coronary arteries greater than the left circumflex coronary artery) (p = 0.05). In log rank analysis that also considered the timing of angiographic detection of restenosis, dilatation of a proximal left anterior descending stenosis was also a significant predictor of restenosis (p = 0.01), and dilatation within 4 weeks of the presumed time of occlusion was only weakly predictive (p = 0.11).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2522728 TI - Factors predicting recurrent restenosis after percutaneous transluminal coronary balloon angioplasty. AB - To identify factors that predict a second restenosis after repeat percutaneous transluminal coronary balloon angioplasty (PTCA), the records of 196 consecutive patients undergoing redilation for treatment of a first restenosis were reviewed. Repeat PTCA was successful in 181 (92%) of these patients. After a successful second PTCA, 47 patients (26%) developed a second restenosis (recurrent restenosis group, group 1) and 134 (single restenosis group, group 2) did not. The 2 patient groups were compared with respect to clinical, angiographic and procedural factors at second PTCA. Univariate correlates of a second restenosis were younger age (54 +/- 10 vs 57 +/- 9 years, p less than 0.05), interval less than 60 days between initial PTCA and recurrence of anginal symptoms (55% of patients in group 1 vs 25% in group 2, p = 0.001), a greater number of inflations (6.3 +/- 4.2 vs 4.4 +/- 2.5, p less than 0.005) and a shorter maximal balloon inflation time (49 +/- 26 vs 69 +/- 36 seconds, p = 0.0006). With multivariate analysis, the 2 factors that emerged as independent predictors of recurrent restenosis were recurrence of symptoms less than 60 days after initial PTCA (p less than 0.004) and a greater number of inflations (p less than 0.04). These data suggest that younger age and rapid recurrence of anginal symptoms after first PTCA predict an increased likelihood that a second restenosis will occur after repeat PTCA and that certain procedural factors, in particular the greater number of balloon inflations and a shorter maximal balloon inflation time, may play an important role in the development of recurrent restenosis. PMID- 2522729 TI - Comparison of doxazosin and atenolol in mild hypertension, and effects on exercise capacity, hemodynamics and left ventricular function. AB - The effects of once-daily therapy with doxazosin (1 to 8 mg/day) on exercise capacity, left ventricular performance and hemodynamics (radionuclide ventriculography) were compared with those of atenolol (50 to 100 mg/day) and placebo in a randomized, double-blind crossover trial in 16 patients (9 men) with mild hypertension. Both medications controlled blood pressure (BP) to a similar degree (mean BP was 150 +/- 12, 137 +/- 17 and 141 +/- 14 mm Hg for placebo, atenolol and doxazosin, respectively) but by different mechanisms. Changes during maximal semierect bicycle exercise were similar to those seen at rest. Doxazosin decreased total peripheral resistance and maintained cardiac output, whereas atenolol decreased cardiac output. Exercise capacity (136 +/- 56 watts with placebo) was maintained by doxazosin (135 +/- 56 watts) but decreased with atenolol (122 +/- 55 watts). Compared with atenolol, doxazosin slightly increased the left ventricular ejection fraction at rest and during exercise. The significance of this study is in the choice of a first-line antihypertensive agent. Both are once-a-day medications that control BP. However, doxazosin does so by improving the abnormal physiology of essential hypertension and, consequently, does not adversely affect exercise performance. PMID- 2522730 TI - Plasma atrial natriuretic peptide in carcinoid heart disease. AB - Plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) concentration was determined and cardiac ultrasound studies were performed in 50 patients with malignant mid-gut carcinoid tumors. The extent of carcinoid-related heart disease varied among the patients. The patients with the most severe right-sided heart disease, who often had signs of right ventricular failure, had significantly (p less than 0.001) higher plasma ANP concentrations than either patients with less or no abnormal ultrasound findings or age- and sex-matched healthy control subjects. ANP levels were serially determined for 0.5 to 4 years (median 2.1) in 12 patients. The levels increased above the reference range in patients with clinical findings of right ventricular failure. In patients without cardiac decompensation the levels remained within the reference range. In 3 patients who had successful tricuspid and pulmonary valve replacements, signs and symptoms of right ventricular failure disappeared and plasma ANP levels declined and normalized. Five patients with progressive right ventricular failure and increasing plasma ANP levels during follow-up eventually died from cardiac decompensation. This study demonstrates the predictive value of serial determinations of plasma ANP in carcinoid heart disease. Such measurements can be an additional guide in the clinical management of these patients. PMID- 2522731 TI - Right ventricular function during transient myocardial ischemia induced by percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of the proximal right coronary artery. PMID- 2522732 TI - Laser angioplasty of totally occluded coronary arteries and vein grafts: preliminary report on a current trial. AB - CLINICAL PERSPECTIVE: Among the various laser angioplasty systems and atherectomy devices currently in clinical trials, the Lastac system appears to be particularly suitable for treating totally occluded coronary arteries and vein grafts. Preliminary results of a clinical trial in more than 35 patients show a recanalization rate of 92% and no complications attributable to the laser. Restenosis has occurred in five cases; in three of these, the arteries were reopened with laser or conventional angioplasty. PMID- 2522733 TI - Protein malnutrition: effect on rat peritoneal mast cell number, histamine content, and IgE receptors. AB - To examine the effects of protein malnutrition on mast cells, rats were fed a protein-deficient diet (0.5% protein ad libitum) or normal diet (27% protein ad libitum or pair fed) for 16, 21, 27, or 57 d. Male rats in the different groups showed no significant differences in mast cell number or histamine content per mast cell. IgE binding sites as measured by flow cytometry were decreased in rats on the deficient diet. Even after stripping receptors of endogenous IgE and then labeling with fluorescent IgE, the difference remained, thus confirming the lower number of mast cell IgE receptors in rats maintained on the protein-deficient diet. PMID- 2522734 TI - Predictive testing for Huntington disease: I. Description of a pilot project in British Columbia. AB - The discovery of DNA markers linked to the gene causing Huntington disease (HD) has allowed the development of predictive testing programs for persons at-risk. A pilot program was established in British Columbia in November 1986. Ninety-five persons are currently enrolled. The major objective of this project is to introduce and evaluate a protocol for the delivery of test results to persons at risk for HD. The criteria for entry and details of the psychosocial assessment before and after receiving a modified risk are presented. The guidelines that are developed from this project will have major applications for predictive testing programs for other late onset autosomal dominant disorders. PMID- 2522735 TI - Predictive testing for Huntington disease: II. Demographic characteristics, life style patterns, attitudes, and psychosocial assessments of the first fifty-one test candidates. AB - Predictive testing was offered to individuals at-risk for Huntington disease living within a 100-mile radius of Vancouver, BC. Ninety-five at-risk individuals, representing approximately 12.6% of eligible candidates in this area, have enrolled in its first 16 months. This paper reports on the psychosocial characteristics of the first 51 at-risk individuals to complete the initial assessment. Two-thirds of the candidates are female with a mean age 39.3 years. They derive from higher socioeconomic backgrounds. Reasons for taking the test included planning for the future, concern for their children, and reducing uncertainty. Only 29.4% of candidates would both desire prenatal testing and terminate a high-risk pregnancy. Results on the SCL 90(R), General Well-Being, and other scales indicate that the candidates' mental health is representative of the population, but as a group, they are more resourceful. The tests identified individuals who needed further assessment on the basis of previous and current psychiatric functioning and social support. No candidate was a high immediate suicidal risk. The process of personal assessment has had beneficial effects on personal growth. The self-selection of a healthy group of candidates emphasizes the need for continued assessment and support as possibly less healthy candidates register for predictive testing programs in the future. PMID- 2522736 TI - Amenorrhea in an ovulatory woman despite a normal uterine cavity: case report. AB - A 35-year-old nulliparous woman came to us for treatment of amenorrhea. Evaluation demonstrated normal ovulation with appropriate results of sequential endometrial biopsies during the luteal phase. The only abnormality found was an elevated serum level of follicle-stimulating hormone in the early follicular phase, and it is hypothesized that this somehow leads to atrophy of the endometrium without shedding. PMID- 2522738 TI - Effects of fibronectin and its peptide fragment on preimplantation mouse embryo. AB - To investigate the involvement of fibronectin in the early development of mouse embryo, embryos at the two-cell stage were cultured in serum-free Ham F-10 medium with or without fibronectin-related substances. When antibody raised against fibronectin was added at concentrations of 0, 10(-3), 10(-2), and 2 X 10(-2) (vol:vol), the percentages of cells in the blastocyst stage at 72 hours were 88.5%, 67.2%, 48.1%, and 0%, respectively. No inhibitory effects were observed with nonspecific antibody. A low concentration of exogenous fibronectin (up to 0.2 mumol/L) slightly enhanced mouse embryo development after 48 hours. However, a higher concentration (greater than 0.4 mumol/L) of fibronectin inhibited mouse embryo development. A competitive blocker of cell membrane fibronectin receptors, oligopeptide (Gly-Arg-Gly-Asp-Ser), inhibited mouse embryo development in a dose dependent manner. Meanwhile, control peptide (Gly-Arg-Gly-Glu-Ser-Pro), which does not contain the crucial cell binding sequence, did not show any inhibitory effects. These findings suggest the necessity of endogenous fibronectin blastomere interaction in early mouse embryo development. PMID- 2522737 TI - Effects of physical activity on maternal plasma beta-endorphin levels and perception of labor pain. AB - Thirty-six women in their second or third pregnancies were studied in two groups (control and exercise) to determine whether plasma alpha-endorphin levels could be elevated by exercise conditioning during pregnancy. Aerobic training was performed on a bicycle ergometer. Both groups were monitored throughout pregnancy by frequent gynecologic examinations. During labor, both groups of women had pain perception assessment. Blood was sampled for levels of beta-endorphin, cortisol, human growth hormone, and prolactin. Plasma beta-endorphin was found elevated compared to controls in patients who exercised throughout pregnancy. This difference was maintained throughout labor and pain perception during labor was reduced in the patients who exercised. Cortisol, human growth hormone, and prolactin levels were lowered during labor for the exercise-conditioned patients. Exercise conditioning during pregnancy seems to be beneficial in reducing pain perception during labor (as determined by measurement of visual analog pain scales) and in reducing stress levels during labor. PMID- 2522739 TI - The effect of doxycycline on ocular rosacea. PMID- 2522740 TI - Criteria mapping: a method of quality assurance. AB - Criteria mapping is a flexible and responsive method of chart audit that allows the simultaneous assessment of both the process and the outcome of care by means of health record abstraction. This method of audit is particularly suited to occupational therapy because it includes branching to reflect the sequential judgments of therapists and does not penalize the clinician for omitting unnecessary procedures. The purpose of this study was to determine the utility and reliability of the criteria mapping process in evaluating the quality of care for a self-care disability in an acute care setting. Three occupational therapists and one independent abstractor evaluated 12 charts twice. Intraobserver reliability calculated with intraclass correlation coefficients was .77 for the therapists and .65 for all observers. Interobserver reliability was .73 for the therapists and .72 for all observers. The criteria map provided comprehensive and relevant information about each chart. This paper discusses the implications of these findings for the ongoing monitoring of the quality of care in occupational therapy. PMID- 2522741 TI - Occupational therapy and the postpolio syndrome. AB - Approximately 75,000 polio survivors are experiencing new weakness, pain, and fatigue that are related to their initial disease. These problems affect their functional ability; therefore, they are of concern to occupational therapists. Overwork of a weakened neuromuscular system is believed to be the cause of these late symptoms. This article reviews current writings on the late effects of poliomyelitis. An understanding of the symptoms, causality, and psychosocial ramifications of this phenomenon facilitates effective occupational therapy intervention. Guidelines for occupational therapy assessment and treatment are included. PMID- 2522742 TI - Patterns of response in families of chronically disabled children: an assessment in five metropolitan school districts. AB - Interviews with parents of 1,726 special education students yielded reports of stress that varied significantly by type of disability and by maternal education level; family involvement in the special education process also varied significantly by level of education. Clinically important differences in family perceptions and coping mechanisms are described and the need for better child care provisions and involvement of low-income parents in the education process is highlighted. PMID- 2522743 TI - The effect of a pattern in palmar interdigital II on a-b ridge count in black and white Down syndrome cases and controls. AB - An unconfirmed study by Fang (Ph.D. thesis, Univ. of London, 1950) in Britain showed that individuals with Down syndrome had lower total a-b ridge counts in palmar Interdigital area II (ID II) than a group of controls. This study compares 603 white Down syndrome cases and 93 black Down syndrome cases with 668 white and 402 black controls. Our results confirm those of Fang in that the Down syndrome cases in both racial groups had lower total a-b ridge counts than their respective controls. In addition, the black controls and Down syndrome cases had lower a-b ridge counts than their white counterparts. The mean a-b ridge count was significantly lower in individuals with a pattern in ID II compared to individuals without a pattern in ID II in both the Down syndrome and control groups. Some of the lower a-b ridge counts in the Down syndrome samples can be accounted for by the fact that there is an increased frequency of a pattern in ID II in Down syndrome cases. Both Down syndrome and normal individuals who had a pattern unilaterally had a lower than expected a-b ridge count on the contralateral hand that did not have a pattern. There was a tendency also for increased asymmetry in Down syndrome cases with a pattern in ID II. PMID- 2522744 TI - Stress fracture of the clavicle leading to nonunion secondary to coracoclavicular reconstruction with Dacron. AB - We have reported the case of a nonunion of a clavicle fracture in which the Dacron had eroded the bone and acted as a stress riser contributing to the fracture. The Dacron then became interposed in the fracture site preventing union. PMID- 2522745 TI - Prevention of cutaneous phototoxicity in photodynamic therapy. AB - Photodynamic therapy using hematoporphyrin derivative (Hpd), or its semipurified form, dihematoporphyrin ether (DHE), in combination with light, has proven effective in the treatment of several types of neoplasms including squamous cell carcinoma. A major disadvantage of this therapy is the long-term retention of these drugs in skin, which may result in cutaneous phototoxicity for weeks after treatment. Singlet oxygen has been identified as the primary cytotoxic product in the reaction of Hpd and light in vitro. This study demonstrates the protective effect in vivo of the singlet oxygen scavengers 1,3 diphenylisobenzofuran and L tryptophan on the skin of young rats exposed to light after receiving DHE. PMID- 2522746 TI - Prevention of postdural puncture headache after spinal anaesthesia for extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy. An assessment of prophylactic epidural blood patching. AB - The prevention of postdural puncture headache after spinal anaesthesia for extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy was investigated by a controlled clinical trial which compared epidural injection of 10 ml of autologous blood with 10 ml of normal saline immediately after intrathecal injection of local anaesthetic. The incidence of postdural puncture headache was 8.3% in the group that received blood compared with 45% in the group that received saline, a significant reduction (p less than 0.01). The incidences of backache and lower limb paraesthesiae were similar in both groups. No serious complications were reported. PMID- 2522747 TI - Total intravenous anaesthesia for laparoscopy. AB - Two techniques of total intravenous anaesthesia for laparoscopy were compared in 80 patients. Group 1 received alfentanil, propofol and vecuronium, and Group 2 alfentanil, midazolam, ketamine and vecuronium. Haemodynamic stability after induction and the pressor response to tracheal intubation were significantly different. There was no significant difference in recovery times between the two groups and little difference in other postoperative sequelae. PMID- 2522748 TI - In vitro metabolism of mivacurium chloride (BW B1090U) and succinylcholine. AB - The in vitro rates of metabolism of mivacurium chloride and succinylcholine in pooled human plasma were compared. In addition, the rate of metabolism of mivacurium in buffered solutions of butyrylcholinesterase (E.C. 3.1.1.8) and acetylcholinesterase (E.C. 3.1.1.7) was determined. Succinylcholine concentrations were measured spectrophotometrically, and mivacurium concentrations were determined with a high-pressure liquid chromatographic assay. The hydrolysis of mivacurium in plasma followed first-order kinetics, and the rate of hydrolysis decreased as plasma was serially diluted. The Michaelis-Menten constant (Km) for mivacurium metabolism in plasma was 245 mumol/L, and the maximum velocity (Vmax) was 50 U/L; the Km for succinylcholine was 37 mumol/L, and Vmax was 74 U/L. At comparable multiples of the Km the hydrolysis rate of mivacurium was 70% of that of succinylcholine. Mivacurium was metabolized significantly in solutions containing butyrylcholinesterase, but only minimally in solutions containing acetylcholinesterase. PMID- 2522750 TI - Extension of Heider's ideas to rehabilitation psychology. AB - Fritz Heider received the Psychological Science Gold Medal Award at the 1987 Annual Convention of the American Psychological Association. This article was prepared for the symposium honoring his contributions. It shows the power of his conceptual framework as a basis for systematizing attitude-change attempts involving disability, as well as the need for affirmative action. The analysis involves such concepts as balance, unit-forming factors, sentiment, and ought. PMID- 2522749 TI - The effect of epidural sufentanil on shivering and body temperature in the parturient. PMID- 2522752 TI - The pseudo-Sezary syndrome with CD8 phenotype in a patient with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). PMID- 2522751 TI - Foscarnet therapy for severe acyclovir-resistant herpes simplex virus type-2 infections in patients with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). An uncontrolled trial. AB - STUDY OBJECTIVE: To determine whether trisodium phosphonoformate (foscarnet) is efficacious in treating severe mucocutaneous disease due to acyclovir-resistant herpes simplex virus type-2 (HSV-2) infection in patients with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). DESIGN: Open-labeled drug administration to patients with AIDS and severe ulcerative disease due to acyclovir-resistant HSV-2 infection. SETTING: Medical floors of acute care hospital. PATIENTS: Four patients with AIDS who developed progressive ulcerative mucocutaneous lesions of the genitals, perineum, perianal region, or finger due to acyclovir-resistant, thymidine-kinase (TK)-negative strains of HSV-2. INTERVENTION: Foscarnet, 60 mg/kg body weight intravenously every 8 hours (with reduced dosage for renal impairment), for 12 to 50 days. MEASUREMENT AND MAIN RESULTS: All patients receiving foscarnet had dramatic improvement in their clinical findings with marked clearing of mucocutaneous lesions and eradication of HSV from mucosal surfaces. CONCLUSION: Foscarnet may be an effective treatment for severe mucocutaneous disease due to acyclovir-resistant, TK-negative strains of HSV-2. PMID- 2522753 TI - Neuropsychiatric hirsutism. PMID- 2522754 TI - [Coronary angioplasty]. AB - Since the first percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty performed in 1977 by Andreas Gruntzig, this non surgical technique has become an established method of myocardial revascularization. This overall report reviews the experience of the last ten years, acquired on several hundred thousand patients. We have especially detailed the chapters concerning the immediate and late results, restenosis, the "Achilles" heel of angioplasty, and concerning the indications, especially stressing multivessel disease and acute myocardial infarction, topics which are currently relatively controverted. PMID- 2522755 TI - Inhibition of cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase activity by menadione. AB - 2-Methyl-1,4-naphthoquinone (menadione) inhibits Ca2+-ATPase activity of cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum membrane vesicles in a time- and concentration-dependent way; after 60 min of preincubation an apparent Ki value of 33.5 microM was calculated. Inhibition is not reversible in that it persists even after the drug is removed and Ca2+-ATPase activity is assayed in a menadione-free medium. GSH (2 mM), but not DTT, is able to prevent and reverse the inhibition of Ca2+-ATPase by menadione. The relative importance of menadione metabolism in the inhibition of Ca2+-ATPase was studied in cell-free systems composed of vesicles and subcellular fractions containing metabolizing enzymes. Under these experimental conditions, 105,000g supernatants isolated from heart or liver that biotransform menadione through DT-diaphorase reduce the inhibition of Ca2+-ATPase activity determined by menadione. Also liver microsomes that biotransform menadione through NADPH cytochrome P450 reductase decrease the inhibition by menadione. By contrast, cardiac microsomes that do not biotransform the drug do not influence the effect of menadione. These results indicate that, under the experimental conditions used for this study, menadione does not require metabolism to inhibit cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase activity. PMID- 2522756 TI - Topical prevention of poison ivy/oak dermatitis. AB - An organoclay preparation was evaluated for topical protection against experimental poison ivy/oak in a rigorous double-blind study. By direct comparison with the same subject, it proved more effective than comparable preparations of bentonite, kaolin, or silicone in 16 of 17 trials. When evaluated globally against control responses to urushiol the organoclay preparation gave 95.3% protection against topical urushiol applications, ranging from 4.75 to 0.0475 nmol. Bentonite, kaolin, and silicone gave 29.6%, 37.9%, and 32.9% protection, respectively, in the same system. We conclude that organoclay is an effective topical protectant against experimental poison ivy/oak dermatitis, and deserves further clinical evaluation. PMID- 2522757 TI - Testosterone and anabolic steroids and acne fulminans. PMID- 2522758 TI - Immunohistological features of synovitis in ankylosing spondylitis: a comparison with rheumatoid arthritis. AB - The immunohistological features of the synovial membrane in ankylosing spondylitis, HLA-B27 associated oligoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis wer examined with particular reference to T lymphocyte subsets. T helper (CD4+) cells clearly outnumbered T suppressor/cytotoxic (CD8+) cells in rheumatoid arthritis, whereas both cell types were present in equal numbers in ankylosing spondylitis. A reduction of CD4+/CD45R+ suppressor/inducer cells relative to CD4+/UCHL1+ helper/inducer cells was apparent in all diagnostic groups. The observations were suggestive of disease specific inflammatory responses within synovial membrane. PMID- 2522760 TI - Entrapment of broken guidewire in the left main coronary artery during percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. AB - The distal end of a flexible, steerable guidewire broke during an attempted percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty of the left anterior descending coronary artery and was retained in the left main coronary artery. It was successfully removed surgically. Etiology of, management of, and precautions for avoiding this complication are discussed. PMID- 2522759 TI - The effect of in vivo T helper and T suppressor lymphocyte depletion on wound healing. AB - The role of T lymphocytes in wound healing is still not well-defined. Because it had been previously shown that in vivo depletion of T cells leads to impaired wound healing, the effect of depleting T cell subsets on subsequent fibroplasia was studied. T helper/effector cells were depleted by the use of the monoclonal antibody GK1.5, reactive against the L3T4 antigen (CD4). T suppressor/cytotoxic lymphocytes were depleted by using the 2.43 monoclonal antibody reactive against the Lyt 2 antigen (CD8). In the first experiment, Balb/c mice were treated with the antibodies starting at 24 hours before wounding was performed, and weekly thereafter. Depletion of the T helper/effector cells had no effect on wound breaking strength or hydroxyproline deposition in sponge granulomas, whereas depletion of T suppressor/cytotoxic cells significantly enhanced both of these healing parameters. In a second experiment, T cell subset depletion was started on Days 0, 3, 7, 10, and 14 postwounding, and treatments were continued weekly thereafter. Once again, depletion of T helper/effector cells had no effect on wound healing, whereas depletion of T suppressor/cytotoxic cells markedly increased both wound-breaking strength and collagen synthesis. In conclusion, the data show that T suppressor/cytotoxic cells have a counter-regulatory role in wound healing, whereas the T cell subset responsible for up-regulating wound healing remains to be identified. PMID- 2522761 TI - [Assessment of immediate geometric changes in coronary stenosis after implantation of stents by quantitative angiographic analysis]. AB - In order to assess the immediate geometric changes in coronary stenosis that occur after implantation of intra-coronary stents, a quantitative angiographic analysis (automatic delineation of contours) was performed in 18 patients. Following angioplasty, the implantation of a stent significantly increases the diameter and area of the stenotic segment in absolute values. This improvement is attended by a significant decrease in resistance and in the theoretical trans stenotic pressure gradient. Beside its role as mechanical support of the dilated arterial wall, the stent possesses an intrinsic force of dilatation confirmed by the results of quantitative angiographic analysis. PMID- 2522762 TI - Iontophoretic treatment of herpetic whitlow. AB - Herpetic whitlow can be a vector for spread of infection, especially among health care professionals. Until now, treatment has been inadequate. In two patients with documented herpetic infections of the finger, the antiviral drug idoxuridine was applied to the lesions by cathodal iontophoresis. Results were characterized by rapid relief of discomfort and swelling, rapid appearance and coalescence of vesicles, and rapid healing, with reduced pain and little or no paresthesia. No recurrences have been noted in the two patients after 42 and 38 months. The positive beneficial results indicate that aggressive iontophoretic treatment for herpetic whitlow is useful and justified. PMID- 2522763 TI - Representation and role separation in the disability movement: should researchers be advocates? PMID- 2522764 TI - Anastomotic tensile strength following in situ replacement of an infected abdominal aortic graft. AB - The tensile strength and histologic features of anastomotic bonding were studied prior to and following in situ replacement of aortic vascular prostheses infected by Staphylococcus epidermidis. Sterile (n = 6) and infected (n = 19) Dacron grafts were used to replace the abdominal aorta of 25 dogs. After five weeks, grafts were explanted, and peak tensile force (measured in kilograms) required for anastomotic disruption was measured using a linear gain tensiometer. Anastomotic tensile strength (mean +/- SEM) of infected grafts (5.4 +/- 0.5 kg) was decreased when compared with that of sterile, control grafts (9.0 +/- 0.9 kg). The decreased anastomotic tensile strength of infected grafts was the result of an inflammatory aortitis adjacent to the suture line. Only grafts infected with the study strain of bacteria demonstrated signs of infection. In 19 dogs, the graft infection was treated by graft excision, antibiotic administration, and in situ graft replacement (Dacron or polytetrafluoroethylene prostheses). After five weeks and 12 weeks, anastomotic tensile strength of polytetrafluoroethylene (10.6 +/- 0.6 kg) and Dacron (10.8 +/- 0.5 kg) replacement grafts was similar to that of uninfected control grafts. In situ replacement of vascular prostheses infected by S epidermidis can result in graft healing with normal anastomotic bonding. PMID- 2522765 TI - Studies on feasibility of producing Salmonella-free turkeys. AB - The feasibility of producing salmonella-free turkeys was investigated over a 5 year period. In Phase 1, a hatchery-breeder flock operation was monitored extensively for 4 years. Hatching eggs from a primary breeder over this period (1978-81) resulted in salmonella-free day-old poults from which 7500 hens and 600 tons were selected for breeders each of the 4 years. Approximately 2.5 million poults were produced over the 4 years. Salmonella arizonae was isolated from the hatchery debris over a 2-week period in 1980. The pelleted feed contained no animal protein products except fish solubles. A sample of feed from each delivery was cultured with no salmonella isolations. Environmental samples of dust and litter remained negative for salmonella. Phase 2 involved monitoring seven grow out flocks initiated with salmonella-free poults with extra precautions directed at the feed and environment. The intestinal tracts of five of seven flocks at the time of marketing were negative for salmonella. Phase 3 involved a primary breeder-hatchery that had a 10-year history of S. sandiego infection in its breeder flocks and poults. A vaccination program using an autogenous oil-adjuvant bacterin supplementing other sanitation and management efforts resulted in elimination of S. sandiego. Because the breeder went out of business, it was not possible to determine if the freedom from salmonella could be sustained over a period of years. PMID- 2522766 TI - Comparative infectivity for axenic and specific-pathogen-free chickens of O2 Escherichia coli strains with or without virulence factors. AB - Adhesion to epithelial respiratory cells, iron acquisition, and production of K1 polysaccharide capsules have been proposed as potential virulence factors of avian Escherichia coli. These factors were studied by inoculating groups of axenic or specific-pathogen-free (SPF) chickens intratracheally with O2 E. coli strains after previous challenge with a wild strain of infectious bronchitis virus (IBV). In all experiments, the association between IBV and an E. coli strain endowed with the three virulence factors previously mentioned resulted in the most severe pathological effects, as measured by mortality, weight gains, lesions, and reisolation of E. coli from internal organs. An E. coli strain devoid of virulence factors was able only to induce mild pathological effects restricted to the respiratory tract when combined with IBV. Both E. coli strains were more invasive in axenic chickens than in SPF chickens. These results confirm the probable involvement of the three factors studied in the pathogenic properties of avian E. coli. This model can be used to assess the role of virulence factors, by comparing pairs of positive and negative isogenic strains. PMID- 2522767 TI - Efficacy of oil-emulsion vaccines prepared with pigeon paramyxovirus-1, Ulster, and La Sota Newcastle disease viruses. AB - Three strains of avian paramyxovirus-1 virus (PMV-1) were used to prepare four experimental monovalent oil-emulsion vaccines. A pigeon PMV-1 isolate (PPMV-1) and the Newcastle disease virus strains La Sota and Ulster were used to prepare four pools of beta-propiolactone-inactivated allantoic fluid for the vaccines. Groups of susceptible white rock chickens and racing homing pigeons were vaccinated subcutaneously with one of the vaccines, and their serologic responses were determined using the hemagglutination-inhibition (HI) test at frequent intervals up to 9 weeks postvaccination. Pigeons were challenged after 10 weeks with a virulent PPMV-1 isolate given intravenously, observed for signs of disease for 5 weeks, and then tested for secondary serologic HI responses. The HI responses were measured using the three strains of virus as HI test antigens. The titers were generally greater when the hemagglutination antigen used in the test was homologous with the antigen used to prepare the vaccine. All vaccines protected pigeons against morbidity and death but not against infection with the challenge virus. The shedding of PPMV-1 challenge virus from PPMV-1 vaccinates was greatly reduced 6 days after challenge. PMID- 2522768 TI - Nonspecific reactions to Mycoplasma serum plate antigens induced by inactivated poultry disease vaccines. AB - Nonspecific serum plate agglutination reactions to some avian mycoplasma antigens were induced by injecting chickens with several commercial poultry disease vaccines. All of the vaccines were inactivated, and most of them had oil-emulsion adjuvants. The serum plate agglutination reactions appeared within 2 to 3 weeks post-vaccination and generally persisted for several weeks. The plate test reactions were noted with both Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) and M. synoviae (MS) antigens, although the degree and duration of the reactions varied with the vaccine involved and the source of MG and MS plate test antigens. Attempts to prevent the nonspecific reactions by heat-inactivation at 56 C for 30 minutes or by addition of equal volumes of solutions of 2-mercaptoethanol, dithiothreitol, or 3 M sodium chloride were ineffective. No hemagglutination-inhibition activity against MG or MS antigens was induced by the vaccines. PMID- 2522769 TI - Experimental infections in domestic ducks with Cryptosporidium baileyi isolated from chickens. AB - Oral inoculation of 13 ducks (Anas platyrhynchos) with 1 x 10(6) Cryptosporidium baileyi oocysts produced patent infections but no clinical signs of disease. Intratracheal inoculation of 13 ducks with 1 x 10(6) C. baileyi oocysts produced only mild clinical signs of respiratory disease, no deaths, and gross lesions of airsacculitis in only three ducks. The distribution of developmental stages of C. baileyi in ducks was similar to that observed in experimentally infected chickens and turkeys. Results of this study indicate that ducks are more resistant to experimentally induced respiratory cryptosporidiosis caused by C. baileyi than are chickens and turkeys. PMID- 2522770 TI - DNA-mediated transformation of N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase I activity into an enzyme deficient cell line. AB - N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase I (GlcNAc-TI) catalyzes the first reaction in the conversion of ASN-linked cell surface oligosaccharides from a mannose-terminating structure to more complex carbohydrate structures. The mutant Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell line, Lec1, is deficient in this enzyme and, therefore, shows increased sensitivity to the lectin, Concanavalin A, which binds to the mannose terminating oligosaccharides that accumulate on Lec1 cell surface glycoproteins. Spontaneous revertants of the Lec1 phenotype have never been observed. We report here the isolation of stable revertants of Lec1 cells to the parental CHO cell lectin-resistance phenotype after DNA-mediated transformation with human DNA. Both primary and secondary transformants express varying levels of GlcNAc-TI enzyme activity which was stable even when the cells were cultured in nonselective conditions. Human alu repeat DNA sequences are present in the primary transformants, but these sequences could not be detected in the secondary transformants. PMID- 2522771 TI - cAMP-dependent protein kinase substrates in platelets. Evidence that thrombolamban, a 22,000 dalton substrate, and the Ca++-ATPase are not associated proteins. AB - Inhibition of platelet function by cAMP is due at least in part to a reduction in the agonist stimulated increase in cytoplasmic calcium during cell activation. This inhibition is also associated with cAMP-dependent phosphorylation of thrombolamban, a 22 kDa phosphoprotein which is present in the same membrane fraction as the calcium-dependent ATPase. Phosphorylation of this protein has been correlated with increased uptake of calcium by microsomal membranes. The present study was undertaken to examine the interaction of thrombolamban with the Ca++-ATPase in order to assess the possibility that the increased calcium uptake was by a direct effect of thrombolamban on Ca++-ATPase activity or that thrombolamban was a component of the Ca++-ATPase. Several approaches were utilized to assess the interaction of thrombolamban with the microsomal Ca++ ATPase. Gel filtration of labeled microsomes solubilized under non-denaturing conditions showed a major peak of radioactivity (Kav 0.64) corresponding to thrombolamban which was well separated from the Ca++-ATPase activity (Kav 0.09). Chemical cross-linking studies using partially purified thrombolamban and intact microsomes showed incorporation of the phosphoprotein into a 147,000 dalton complex. Indirect immunostaining with an anti-Ca++-ATPase antibody failed to demonstrate the Ca++-ATPase in the 147,000 dalton complex. Recombination of the phosphorylated thrombolamban with the Ca++-ATPase had no effect on Ca++-ATPase activity. These results indicate that, under the conditions used in these experiments, there was no apparent interaction between thrombolamban and the microsomal Ca++-ATPase. We conclude that thrombolamban is covalently bound to the Ca++-ATPase. PMID- 2522772 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor messenger ribonucleic acid and peptide in the human heart during ontogenic development. AB - We have investigated the level of expression of the atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) gene in the human heart during ontogenic development by determining the concentrations of ANF messenger ribonucleic acid (ANF mRNA), of immunoreactive ANF (IR ANF) and of receptor reactive ANF (RR ANF), in myocardial samples of the various heart chambers. We found the level was high and almost identical in the left and right ventricles in utero. It gradually decreased during ontogenic development to reach the low adult levels, with a more rapid decrease in the right than in the left ventricle after birth. In the atria, ANF gene expression was high as early as the 13th week of gestation, was higher in the right than in the left atrium, and appeared little affected by ontogenic development. PMID- 2522773 TI - Rapid purification of the 30 kDa calcimedin using DNase I affinity chromatography. AB - The 30 kDa calcimedin was found to bind directly to phenyl-Sepharose in a calcium dependent manner similar to calmodulin. The 30 kDa calcimedin was also found to bind to and inhibit DNase I. This calcium-dependent binding was exploited to develop a two-step purification scheme for this calcimedin. In addition, affinity purified antibodies to the 30 kDa calcimedin were used to examine its tissue distribution. The highest levels were found in lung, trachea and diaphragm while the lowest levels of the 30 kDa calcimedin were found in brain and skeletal muscle. PMID- 2522774 TI - The ontogeny of immunoreactive beta-endorphin and beta-lipotropin in the rat ovary. AB - We have investigated the ontogeny of, and the effect of hypophysectomy on, immunoreactive beta-endorphin in rat ovaries. Total levels rose with ovarian weight from nondetectable levels at 5 days of age to approximately 0.15 pmol/ovary at 80 days; thereafter, the levels remained constant through 201 days of age. Hypophysectomy decreased both ovarian weight and the total content of immunoreactive beta-endorphin, but the concentration per weight was not significantly altered. Most of the immunoreactive beta-endorphin before puberty chromatographed like authentic beta-endorphin, but after puberty most chromatographed like beta-lipotropin. Hypophysectomy did not alter this chromatographic pattern. PMID- 2522775 TI - Studies on the biogenesis of the mammalian ATP synthase complex: isolation and characterization of a full-length cDNA encoding the rat F1-beta-subunit. AB - Screening a rat cDNA library with a fragment of the gene encoding the corresponding bovine protein, we have isolated cDNA clones encoding the complete precursor to the rat F1-beta-subunit. Comparison with other mammalian beta subunit sequences reveals a 5' untranslated sequence of 27 bp, a targeting sequence of 48 amino acid residues, a 480 amino acid long mature polypeptide and a 3' untranslated region of approximately 150 bp. In vitro translation of F1-beta mRNA reveals the synthesis of multiple fragments of the protein. Preliminary characterization of intron-containing cDNA isolates indicates that the gene encoding the rat F1-beta subunit contains at least two introns. PMID- 2522776 TI - Cloning and sequence analysis of cDNA encoding a precursor for rat brain natriuretic peptide. AB - Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a new type of natriuretic peptide, which has so far been identified only in porcine brain and atrium. Immunological observations suggest that rat and porcine BNP may have structural difference according to species. To identify rat BNP, we constructed a rat atrial cDNA library, and screened for clones encoding rat BNP-precursor by using part of porcine BNP cDNA as a probe. By sequencing a cloned cDNA, the amino acid sequence of rat BNP-precursor comprising 121 residues was deduced as carrying a 26-residue putative signal peptide at the N-terminus and a region homologous to porcine BNP 32 at the C-terminus. In addition, remarkably high homology between rat and porcine BNP-precursors was observed in the 3'-untranslated AT-rich region. Comparing sequences of precursors of ANP and BNP thus far identified, structural and processing features characteristic of the BNP family were discussed. PMID- 2522777 TI - Cloning and sequence analysis of cDNA encoding a precursor for human brain natriuretic peptide. AB - Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a novel diuretic-natriuretic and vasorelaxant peptide originally isolated from porcine brain. In contrast to mammalian atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), immunological characterization suggests that mammalian BNPs show structural species differences. In order to determine the amino acid sequence of human BNP, we constructed a human cardiac atrium cDNA library and screened for clones hybridizing with porcine BNP cDNA. By sequence analysis of cDNA encoding a putative human BNP precursor, an amino acid sequence of human prepro-BNP of 134 residues has been deduced, in which a minimum bioactive unit highly homologous to porcine BNP-32 is present at the carboxy-terminus. PMID- 2522778 TI - A novel cleavage product of beta-thromboglobulin formed in cultures of stimulated mononuclear cells activates human neutrophils. AB - A neutrophil-activating peptide, NAP-2, was found to be produced in cultures of human mononuclear cells in the presence of E. coli lipopolysaccharide or phytohaemagglutinin. NAP-2 induced the release of elastase from cytochalasin B treated human neutrophils. Amino- and carboxy-terminal sequencing and electrophoretic analysis showed that NAP-2 is a single peptide of 70 amino acids (Mr 7,628, IEP 8.7) corresponding to a carboxyterminal fragment of beta thromboglobulin. NAP-2 is homologous to NAF/NAP-1. When aligned on the basis of their two first cysteines, 13 out of 20 amino-terminal residues are identical. The overall homology between the two peptides is 46%. PMID- 2522779 TI - Sites of inhibition of mitochondrial electron transport by rhein. AB - The effect of rhein on the oxygen consumption, oxidative phosphorylation, ATPase activity and redox state of electron carriers of rat liver mitochondria has been studied. Rhein inhibits ADP- and uncoupler-stimulated respiration on various NAD linked substrates and succinate, but stimulates state 4 respiration of mitochondria respiring on succinate. Experiments on specific segments of the respiratory chain showed that rhein does not inhibit electron flow through cytochrome oxidase. Electron flow through site 2, the ubiquinone-cytochrome b cytochrome c1 complex, was also unaffected by rhein, which failed to inhibit the oxidation of duroquinol. Rhein affects oxidative phosphorylation by inhibiting both electron transfer and ADP-driven H+ uptake. The inhibition of succinate oxidation by rhein was found to take place at a point between succinate and ubiquinone, perhaps at the level of succinic dehydrogenase. Spectroscopic evidence demonstrated that rhein induces a NAD(P)H oxidation in mitochondria respiring either on endogenous substrates or on glutamate + malate, and an inhibition of the cytochrome b reduction by succinate. These observations, together with other evidence, suggest that rhein inhibits electron transport in rat liver mitochondria at the dehydrogenase-coenzyme level, particularly when the electron carriers are in a relatively oxidized state and/or when the inner membrane-matrix compartment is in the condensed state. PMID- 2522780 TI - Specific binding of 125I SCH 23982, a selective dopamine (D1) receptor ligand to plasma membranes derived from human kidney cortex. AB - Binding of the selective D-1 dopamine receptor ligand 125I SCH 23982 was studied using crude plasma membranes derived from human renal cortex. 125I SCH 23982 bound saturably to a single high affinity site (Kd = 650 pM, Bmax = 19 fmol/mg protein). Binding at 37 degrees was rapid and reversible with forward and reverse rate constants of 5.79 x 10(8) min-1 m-1 and 0.156 min-1 respectively. Antagonist and agonist competition for 125I SCH 23982 binding was also consistent with the existence of a single site possessing pharmacological characteristics similar to a D-1 dopamine receptor. It is suggested that this site may represent a D-1 (or DA1) dopamine receptor present in human renal cortex. PMID- 2522781 TI - Na+ and pH dependent transport of foscarnet via the phosphate carrier system across intestinal brush-border membrane. PMID- 2522782 TI - Histamine H2-receptor mediated stimulation of gastric acid secretion by mercaptomethylimidazole. AB - Intraperitoneal administration of mercaptomethylimidazole (methimazole), a potent antithyroid drug belonging to the thionamide group, caused a significant increase in gastric secretion both in control and pylorus-ligated mice. The drug also induced significant stimulation of gastric acid and pepsinogen secretion in both the animal systems studied. The dose-response curve indicated a nearly 10-fold increase in acid output by injection of 0.55 mg mercaptomethylimidazole per 25 g body weight. The duration profile of the drug response at the dose mentioned showed acid secretion almost at a linear rate up to 2.5 hr, after which the response decreased to some extent. Of the other antithyroid drugs of the same family, only thiourea activated acid secretion but the response was much smaller than mercaptomethylimidazole. Histamine, one of the physiological secretagogues of gastric acid secretion, was found to be less active than mercaptomethylimidazole. Mercaptomethylimidazole-induced stimulation of acid secretion could be effectively blocked by prior administration of cimetidine and completely by omeprazole and not by atropine. Verapamil and nifedipine had also some inhibitory effect. These observations indicate that mercaptomethylimidazole stimulates HCl secretion through the involvement of H2-receptor and through the functioning of the H+-K+-ATPase of the parietal cells. The bulk movement of water during increased HCl secretion was partially sensitive to cimetidine and omeprazole and was also associated with an increased secretion of Na+ and K+ in the gastric juice. This indicates that mercaptomethylimidazole also induced water transport through a separate mechanism. PMID- 2522784 TI - Canine serum keratan sulfate and hyaluronate concentrations. Relationship to age and osteoarthritis. AB - Elevated serum levels of keratan sulfate (KS) and hyaluronate (HA) in patients with osteoarthritis (OA) have been reported. We measured KS and HA in dogs to determine if there was an elevation of these serum glycosaminoglycans in a canine model of OA. A single intraarticular injection of 1 mg of chymopapain into a shoulder joint increased serum KS by tenfold, and HA by less than twofold, in 24 hours. Serum KS and HA levels were 3-5-fold higher in dogs younger than 2 months of age than in older dogs. Serum KS and HA concentrations and synovial fluid KS concentrations were unrelated to spontaneous cartilage degeneration in 1-year-old dogs. Higher KS levels in synovial fluid correlated with higher KS levels in serum (r = 0.54, P less than 0.025). The mean KS concentration in sera of older dogs (greater than 3 years old) with OA was 37% higher than that in disease-free controls, but the difference between the groups was not statistically significant. Thus, elevated levels of serum KS and HA do not appear to have clinical significance in this model of OA. PMID- 2522783 TI - Reduced numbers of complement receptor type 1 on erythrocytes are associated with increased levels of anticardiolipin antibodies. Findings in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and the antiphospholipid syndrome. AB - In several diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and autoimmune hemolytic anemias, the numbers of complement receptor type 1 (CR1) expressed on erythrocytes of patients are reduced. In patients with SLE, anticardiolipin antibodies (aCL) have been associated with positive results on direct antiglobulin tests. Because of these findings, we investigated whether the reduced expression of erythrocyte CR1 in 61 patients (53 with SLE and 8 with the antiphospholipid syndrome) might be associated with the presence of aCL. A negative correlation was observed between aCL levels and mean numbers of CR1 (rs = -0.43, P = 0.001), and a positive correlation was observed between aCL levels and the levels of erythrocyte C4d and C3d (rs = 0.33 and 0.41, P = 0.01 and 0.001, respectively), but no correlation of aCL levels with serum C4 levels was found. When the results were further analyzed according to the IgG or IgM class of aCL, levels of antibodies of both classes were negatively correlated with CR1 numbers, but only IgM aCL levels were correlated with erythrocyte C4d and C3d numbers. The levels of anti-double-stranded DNA antibodies showed no correlation with erythrocyte CR1, C4d, or C3d numbers but were negatively correlated with serum C4 levels (rs = -0.43, P = 0.002). These data suggest that aCL, or a closely related antibody specificity, may bind to erythrocytes and may be directly involved in the mechanism for reduction of erythrocyte CR1 expression in SLE patients. PMID- 2522787 TI - Recognition of emotion by mentally retarded adolescents and young adults. AB - Mentally retarded adolescents and young adults, together with nonretarded children individually matched for verbal mental age, were given tasks in which they chose photographs of faces to accompany emotionally expressive voices and photographs of nonemotional things or events to accompany recorded sounds. Retarded individuals performed less well than did nonretarded control subjects on the emotion tasks but were not so impaired on the nonemotion tasks. These results suggest that mentally retarded individuals may have specific deficits in recognizing how bodily expressions of emotion are coordinated with each other. PMID- 2522785 TI - Predictors of registered nurses' lifting behavior. AB - 1. Nurses continue to experience back pain and injury as a result of occupational stressors, with most attributed to lifting clients. 2. Research found that only 2% of nurses lifted clients as prescribed by current nursing textbooks. 3. Nurses' lifting behavior was related to the age of the nurse and the type of client movement. 4. Ongoing education regarding prescribed lifting behavior in clinical settings and continued research regarding strategies to increase the prevalence of safe behavior in the workplace are recommended. PMID- 2522786 TI - The greeting behavior of fragile X males. AB - Mentally retarded males with a fragile site on the X chromosome (Xq27) were observed to exhibit a highly idiosyncratic but well-coordinated, stereotypic form of gaze avoidance during greeting ceremonies that involved the whole upper body. A comparison group of persons with other etiologically defined syndromes of mental retardation did not. Results suggest that the aberrant greeting behavior may be uniquely associated with one syndrome of mental retardation with a defined genetic etiology. The behavior pattern does not appear until middle childhood, however, and its developmental induction remains to be explained. PMID- 2522788 TI - Coronary angioplasty and left ventricular function in single vessel coronary artery disease. AB - Left ventricular function was investigated in 86 patients with single vessel coronary artery disease before and three to six months after successful angioplasty. Before angioplasty thallium-201 perfusion scintigraphy and technetium-99m gated equilibrium ventriculography in most patients showed that stress testing (exercise and ice water stimulation and isometric handgrip respectively) induced myocardial perfusion defects that were associated with a mean (SD) drop in left ventricular ejection fraction from 64 (6)% to 56 (7)%. After angioplasty there was residual coronary stenosis of less than or equal to 20% of the diameter of the vessel in 78 patients (group 1) and of between 20 and 50% in eight patients (group 2). After the procedure the perfusion defects seen during stress resolved in 86% of group 1 and in 87% of group 2. Despite the apparent improvement in myocardial perfusion left ventricular dysfunction persisted in group 2--that is during stress the left ventricular ejection fraction fell from 65% (6) to 56% (5). In group 1, on the other hand, the improvement in myocardial perfusion was associated with significant improvement in left ventricular function with a normal increase in ejection fraction from 63 (5) at rest to 67 (6) during stress. Radionuclide studies, one to six weeks after angioplasty in 30 group 1 patients showed continuing left ventricular decompensation during stress in nine (30%) of them despite correction of perfusion defects. But reinvestigation three to six months after the procedure showed recovery of left ventricular function with an increase in ejection fraction from 66 (5) at rest to 69 (7) during stress. These data indicate that coronary angioplasty procedures that give a residual stenosis of single-strand replication, which involves, in addition to the polymerizing activity, the unwinding of the duplex by the rep helicase and the participation of a more complex multiprotein replisome. PMID- 2524474 TI - Reaction intermediates formed by myofibrils during the ATPase reaction under relaxed conditions. AB - The species and amounts of intermediates formed by myosin in myofibrils during the ATPase reaction under relaxed conditions were examined. The amount of total nucleotides (ADP + ATP) bound to myofibrils, determined by a centrifugation method or a rapid filtration method, was 0.86 mol/mol myosin head. The amount of bound ADP, determined as the ADP remaining in the mixture after free ADP had been rapidly converted into ATP by an ATP-regenerating system, was found to be 0.67 mol/mol myosin head. We examined the time courses of free-Pi and total-Pi (TCA Pi) formation after adding ATP to the myofibrils. The amount of Pi bound to myofibrils, calculated by subtracting the burst size of free Pi (0.23 mol/mol myosin head) from that of TCA-Pi (0.60 mol/mol myosin head), was found to be 0.37 mol/mol myosin head. The amount of tightly bound ATP determined by an ATP quenching method was very low (0.03 mol/mol myosin head). If there is no myosin phosphate complex, then the amounts of the myosin-phosphate-ADP complex, MADPP, and the tightly bound myosin-ATP complex, M*ATP, are 0.37 and 0.03 mol/mol myosin head, respectively, whereas the amounts of myosin-ADP and loosely bound myosin ATP complexes are 0.30 and 0.16 mol/mol myosin head, respectively. Thus, half of the myosin heads forms MADPP or M*ATP, and the equilibrium between MADPP and M*ATP shifts to the MADPP side. These results agree with those obtained for myosin in solution (Inoue, A., Takenaka, H., Arata, T., & Tonomura, Y. (1979) Adv. Biophys. 13, 1-194). Therefore, in relaxed myofibrils the active site of myosin does not interact with actin. PMID- 2524475 TI - Nucleotide specificity of canine cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum. Differential alteration of enzyme properties by detergent treatment. AB - We previously demonstrated that, in contrast to the hydrolysis of ATP, the hydrolysis of GTP by canine cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum is not sensitive to calcium. Based on a variety of qualitative and quantitative considerations (cf. Tate, C. A., Bick, R. J., Chu, A., Van Winkle, W. B., and Entman, M. L. (1985) J. Biol. Chem. 260, 9618-9623), we suggested that the hydrolysis of ATP and GTP appears to be effected by the same enzyme. In the present paper, we examined the sensitivity of both enzymatic activities to low concentrations of detergent. With nonsolubilizing concentrations of the nonionic detergent, octaethylene glycol monododecyl ether, the hydrolysis of GTP was rendered partially calcium-sensitive resulting from a slightly increased total (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-GTPase activity and a markedly inhibited calcium-independent (Mg2+-dependent) GTPase activity. Calcium dependent ATPase activity was increased with octaethylene glycol monododecyl ether, mimicking the effect of the ionophore, A23187. Calcium-dependent ATPase activity and detergent-induced calcium-dependent GTPase activity were similar in (a) calcium sensitivity, (b) sensitivity to mersalyl, and (c) pressure inactivation through dilution and centrifugation, all of which differed from the untreated calcium-independent GTPase activity. Calcium-dependent ATPase activity differed from calcium-dependent GTPase activity with (a) a higher nucleotide affinity, (b) a lower vanadate sensitivity, and (c) a calcium sensitivity for phosphoenzyme formation. Thus, the detergent-induced perturbation of the GTPase resulted in an enzyme with many characteristics qualitatively and quantitatively similar to the calcium ATPase. PMID- 2524476 TI - Phospholipid binding properties of human placental anticoagulant protein-I, a member of the lipocortin family. AB - Human placental anticoagulant protein-I (PAP-I) is a member of the lipocortin/calpactin/annexin family of Ca2+-dependent phospholipid binding proteins. PAP-I was labeled with fluorescein 5-isothiocyanate (1 mol/mol); this derivative had anticoagulant activity identical to the unlabeled protein and could be used to measure Ca2+-dependent binding to phospholipid vesicles through changes in fluorescence quenching. At 1.2 mM Ca2+, 0.50 M ionic strength, pH 7.4, 25 degrees C, fluorescein-labeled PAP-I bound to phospholipid vesicles containing 80% phosphatidylcholine, 20% phosphatidylserine with a Kd of 1.2 +/- 0.2 nM (mean +/- S.D.). At an ionic strength of 0.15 M, the Kd decreased to less than 0.1 nM. Prothrombin and factor Xa both competed with fluorescein-labeled PAP-I for binding to anionic phospholipid vesicles, but with affinities at least 1000-fold weaker than PAP-I. PAP-I bound only weakly (Kd greater than 2 x 10(-5) M) to neutral or anionic phospholipid monomers, and this binding was not calcium dependent. These results show that the affinity of PAP-I for anionic phospholipid surfaces is sufficient to explain its potency as an in vitro anticoagulant. PMID- 2524477 TI - Binding of heparan sulfate to type V collagen. A mechanism of cell-substrate adhesion. AB - The functions and molecular interactions of type V collagen in the pericellular matrix are unclear. Our studies show that type V collagen adsorbed on a surface binds heparin/heparan sulfate with apparent higher affinity than do collagen types I, II, III, IV, or VI, fibronectin, or laminin. Therefore, heparin-like molecules may mediate interactions between cells and type V collagen. Hence, type V collagen may act as an anchor for proteoglycans in the extracellular matrix and function as a substrate for glycosaminoglycan-mediated cell attachment. This model is supported by studies showing that Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell mutants which are deficient in glycosaminoglycan synthesis attach poorly to type V collagen substrates compared to wild-type cells, whereas attachment of CHO cell mutants to fibronectin substrates is not affected. Also, exogenous heparin reduces attachment of CHO, endothelial, and smooth muscle cells to type V collagen but does not affect cell attachment to fibronectin. The inhibitory activity of the exogenous heparin/heparan sulfate depends on the size and sulfate content of the polysaccharide chains. At tested concentrations, chondroitin sulfate does not affect the attachment of CHO cells or the binding of biotin conjugated heparan sulfate to wells coated with type V collagen. These data suggest that a certain degree of structural specificity is involved in glycosaminoglycan binding to type V collagen. PMID- 2524478 TI - Undersulfated heparan sulfate in a Chinese hamster ovary cell mutant defective in heparan sulfate N-sulfotransferase. AB - Heparan sulfate N-sulfotransferase catalyzes the transfer of sulfate groups from adenosine 3'-phosphate, 5'-phosphosulfate to the free amino groups of glucosamine residues in heparan sulfate. We have identified a Chinese hamster ovary cell mutant, designated pgsE-606, which is 3-5-fold defective in N-sulfotransferase activity. The residual enzyme activity is indistinguishable from the wild-type enzyme with respect to Km values for adenosine 3'-phosphate,5'-phosphosulfate and N-desulfoheparin, pH dependence, Arrhenius activation energy, and thermal lability. The mutation is recessive, and mixing experiments indicate that the mutant does not produce soluble antagonists of N-sulfotransferase. Inspection of the heparan sulfate chains from the mutant showed that the extent of N-sulfation is reduced about 2-3-fold. The addition of sulfate to hydroxyl groups on the chain is reduced to a similar extent, suggesting that N-sulfation and O-sulfation are normally coupled. Nitrous acid fragmentation of the chains showed that N sulfated glucosamine residues are spaced much less frequently than in heparan sulfate from wild-type cells. The close correlation of enzyme activity to the number and position of N-sulfate groups indicates that N-sulfotransferase plays a pivotal role in determining the extent of sulfation of heparan sulfate. PMID- 2524479 TI - Histidine-rich glycoprotein blocks T cell rosette formation and modulates both T cell activation and immunoregulation. AB - Histidine-rich glycoprotein (HRGP) is a plasma and platelet protein with undefined function in vivo. It has been reported to inhibit rosette formation between murine T cells and erythrocytes. We have shown that HRGP binds specifically to human T lymphocytes but not sheep erythrocytes and have demonstrated a 56-kDa HRGP-binding protein on the T cell surface which is distinct from the CD2 sheep erythrocyte receptor. We have now investigated whether HRGP can inhibit human T cell-sheep erythrocyte rosette formation and whether HRGP can modulate T cell activation. HRGP at physiologic concentrations specifically inhibited rosette formation between human T lymphocytes and sheep erythrocytes. HRGP suppressed proliferation of antigen receptor (CD3)-triggered T cells induced by interleukin 2; this suppression was specifically reversed by prior incubation of HRGP with affinity-purified anti-HRGP IgG. Addition of HRGP 12-24 h after CD3 triggering no longer suppressed T cell proliferation, suggesting HRGP suppressed T cell division by interfering with one or more early events in the process of T cell activation. Human serum (containing 100-150 micrograms/ml HRGP) was also capable of suppressing T cell proliferation; serum which had been immunodepleted of HRGP no longer inhibited T cell proliferation. Furthermore, HRGP inhibited interleukin 2 receptor expression on activated T cells, causing decreased T cell interferon-gamma release and altered T cell dependent inhibition of erythropoiesis. HRGP is thus capable of modulating T cell activation and T cell immunoregulation; HRGP may function as a natural suppressive regulator of human T lymphocyte activation. PMID- 2524480 TI - Dynamic conformational changes of 21 S dynein ATPase coupled with ATP hydrolysis revealed by proteolytic digestion. AB - Conformational changes of 21 S dynein ATPase from sea urchin sperm flagella were examined by tryptic digestion under physiological conditions. In the presence of 2 mM ATP or ADP plus 100 microM inorganic vanadate (Vi), dynein heavy chains were digested by trypsin into quite different polypeptides from those obtained in other cases (no addition, 2 mM ATP, 4 mM adenosine 5'-(beta,gamma imido)triphosphate, 4 mM adenosine 5'-(beta,gamma-methylene)triphosphate, 2 mM ADP, 100 microM Vi). In the presence of 4 mM adenosine 5'-O-(3-thiotriphosphate), however, the digestion pattern was similar to that in the presence of ATP (ADP) and Vi, to a certain extent. In all conditions other than the presence of ATP (ADP) and Vi, 165- and 135-kDa polypeptides were the main products, whereas in the presence of ATP (ADP) and Vi, 200-, 150/148-, and 105/96-kDa peptides were produced and 320-kDa peptide became rather inaccessible to trypsin. The latter digestion pattern was not observed in the absence of divalent cations. These results suggest that, in the ATP hydrolysis cycle, dynein changes its conformation remarkably in the dynein-ADP-Pi state, which is presumably responsible for force generation. PMID- 2524481 TI - Structure of a plasma membrane H+-ATPase gene from the plant Arabidopsis thaliana. AB - Physiological and biochemical studies have suggested that the plant plasma membrane H+-ATPase controls many important aspects of plant physiology, including growth, development, nutrient transport, and stomata movements. We have started the genetic analysis of this enzyme by isolating both genomic and cDNA clones of an H+-ATPase gene from Arabidopsis thaliana. The cloned gene is interrupted by 15 introns, and there is partial conservation of exon boundaries with respect to animal (Na+/K+)- and Ca2+-ATPases. In general, the relationship between exons and the predicted secondary and transmembrane structure of different ATPases with phosphorylated intermediate support a somewhat degenerate correspondence between exons and structural modules. The predicted amino acid sequence of the plant H+ ATPase is more closely related to fungal and protozoan H+-ATPases than to bacterial K+-ATPases or to animal (Na+/K+)-, (H+/K+)-, and Ca2+-ATPases. There is evidence for the existence of at least three isoforms of the plant H+-ATPase gene. These results open the way for a molecular approach to the structure and function of the plant proton pump. PMID- 2524482 TI - Pig gastric (H+ + K+)-ATPase. Lys-497 conserved in cation transporting ATPases is modified with pyridoxal 5'-phosphate. AB - Pig gastric (H+ + K+)-ATPase can be covalently modified with pyridoxal 5' phosphate (PLP) (about 1 mol/mol enzyme), and this modification is not observed in the presence of ATP, suggesting that PLP binds to a specific Lys residue in the ATP binding site or the region in its vicinity (Maeda, M., Tagaya, M., and Futai, M. (1988) J. Biol. Chem. 263, 3652-3656). The peptides labeled with radioactive PLP could be released from the gastric membrane vesicles quantitatively by chymotrypsin treatment, and two peptides were purified by high performance liquid chromatographies. These peptides were not obtained from vesicles incubated with PLP in the presence of ATP. The sequences of the two peptides were NH2-Asn-Ser-Thr-Asn-Lys-Phe-COOH and NH2-Ser-Thr-Asn-Lys-Phe-COOH, exactly corresponding to residues 493-498 and 494-498, respectively, of pig gastric (H+ + K+)-ATPase sequenced recently (Maeda, M., Ishizaki, J., and Futai, M. (1988) Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 157, 203-209). Lys-497 was concluded to be the binding site of PLP, as pyridoxyl-Lys was identified at the corresponding position. This Lys residue is conserved in (Na+ + K+)- and Ca2+-ATPases. The possible amino acid residues in the catalytic site of gastric (H+ + K+)-ATPase are discussed. PMID- 2524483 TI - Glycosaminoglycan free chains. External plasma membrane components distinct from the membrane proteoglycans. AB - Heparan sulfate and chondroitin sulfate glycosaminoglycans of BALB/c 3T3 fibroblasts, metabolically labeled with [3H]glucosamine and [35S]sulfate precursors, are resolved by preparative Sepharose CL-4B chromatography into distinct products, the proteoglycans and the glycosaminoglycan free chains, the latter resistant to appreciable molecular weight shift upon alkaline borohydride reduction. The in situ localization of these cell layer molecules was probed with glycosaminoglycan degrading enzymes (lyases) of bacterial origin, which were used to digest isotopically prelabeled monolayer cultures prior to extraction with a nonionic detergent in the presence of protease inhibitors. Most of the total cellular complement of glycosaminoglycan free chains, in addition to the proteoglycans, proved accessible to the lyases under conditions which did not appreciably affect cell viability or morphology. Because these results were also obtained under low temperature (4 degrees C) conditions and in the presence of phenylarsine oxide, a sulfhydryl reagent that irreversibly inhibits endocytosis, the effects of the lyases are not dependent upon internalization by the cells. The cellular production and cell surface expression of the glycosaminoglycan free chains were not materially altered when lysosomal function was pharmacologically inhibited, confirming that the free chains are not intracellular intermediates in the lysosomal degradation pathways of proteoglycans. Contrary to the prevailing model, our observations establish that, at least in the cell line under study, glycosaminoglycan free chains are located on the external leaflet of the plasma membrane, as such suggesting that these products are biologically active components of cell surfaces. PMID- 2524485 TI - Extensive esterification of adrenal C19-delta 5-sex steroids to long-chain fatty acids in the ZR-75-1 human breast cancer cell line. AB - Estrogen-sensitive human breast cancer cells (ZR-75-1) were incubated with the 3H labeled adrenal C19-delta 5-steroids dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and its fully estrogenic derivative, androst-5-ene-3 beta,17 beta-diol (delta 5-diol) for various time intervals. When fractionated by solvent partition, Sephadex LH-20 column chromatography and silica gel TLC, the labeled cell components were largely present (40-75%) in three highly nonpolar, lipoidal fractions. Mild alkaline hydrolysis of these lipoidal derivatives yielded either free 3H-labeled DHEA or delta 5-diol. The three lipoidal fractions cochromatographed with the synthetic DHEA 3 beta-esters, delta 5-diol 3 beta (or 17 beta)-monoesters and delta 5-diol 3 beta,17 beta-diesters of long-chain fatty acids. DHEA and delta 5 diol were mainly esterified to saturated and mono-unsaturated fatty acids. For delta 5-diol, the preferred site of esterification of the fatty acids is the 3 beta-position while some esterification also takes place at the 17 beta-position. Time course studies show that ZR-75-1 cells accumulate delta 5-diol mostly (greater than 95%) as fatty acid mono- and diesters while DHEA is converted to delta 5-diol essentially as the esterified form. Furthermore, while free C19 delta 5-steroids rapidly diffuse out of the cells after removal of the precursor [3H]delta 5-diol, the fatty acid ester derivatives are progressively hydrolyzed, and DHEA and delta 5-diol thus formed are then sulfurylated prior to their release into the culture medium. The latter process however is rate-limited, since new steady-state levels of free steroids and fatty acid esters are rapidly reached and maintained for extended periods of time after removal of precursor, thus maintaining minimal concentrations of intracellular steroids. The rapid rate and large extent of esterification of DHEA and delta 5-diol to long-chain fatty acids in breast cancer cells indicate that this reaction could constitute an important regulatory step in the estrogenic action of DHEA and delta 5-diol in these cells. PMID- 2524484 TI - Localization of sites modified during inactivation of the bovine heart mitochondrial F1-ATPase by quinacrine mustard using [3H]aniline as a probe. AB - The aziridinium of purified quinacrine mustard at 50 microM inactivates the bovine heart mitochondrial F1-ATPase with a pseudo-first order rate constant of 0.07 min-1 at pH 7.0 and 23 degrees C. An apparent Kd of 27 microM for the enzyme reagent complex was estimated from the dependence of the rate of inactivation on the concentration of quinacrine mustard. The pH inactivation profile revealed that deprotonation of a group with a pKa of about 6.7 is necessary for inactivation. The amount of reagent incorporated into the protein increased linearly with the extent of inactivation. Complete inactivation was estimated to occur when 3 mol of reagent were incorporated/mol of F1. Enzyme, in which steady state ATPase was inactivated by 98% by quinacrine mustard, hydrolyzed substoichiometric ATP with zero order kinetics suggesting that residual activity is catalyzed by F1 in which at least one beta subunit is modified. By exploiting the reactivity of the aziridinium of covalently attached reagent with [3H] aniline, sites modified by quinacrine mustard were labeled with 3H. Isolation of radioactive cyanogen bromide peptides derived from F1 inactivated with the reagent in the presence of [3H]aniline which were identified by sequence analysis and sequence analyses of radioactive tryptic fragments arising from them have revealed the following. About two thirds of the radioactivity incorporated into the enzyme during inactivation is apparently esterified to one or more of the carboxylic acid side chains in a CNBr-tryptic fragment of the beta subunit with the sequence: 394DELSEEDK401. The remainder of the radioactivity is associated with at least two sites within the cyanogen bromide peptide containing residues 293-358 of the beta subunit. From these results it is concluded that inactivation of F1 by the aziridinium of quinacrine mustard is due, at least in part, to modification of one or more of the carboxylic acid side chains in the DELSEED segment of the beta subunit and possibly also to modification of unspecified amino acid side chains between residues 302-356 of the beta subunit. PMID- 2524486 TI - Cysteine 532 and cysteine 545 are the N-ethylmaleimide-reactive residues of the Neurospora plasma membrane H+-ATPase. AB - Previous studies from this laboratory (Brooker, R. J., and Slayman, C. W. (1983) J. Biol. Chem. 258, 222-226; Davenport, J. W., and Slayman, C. W. (1988) J. Biol. Chem. 263, 16007-16013) have used the sulfhydryl reagent N-ethylmaleimide (NEM) to define two sites on the Neurospora plasma membrane H+-ATPase: a "fast" site which reacts in several minutes with no loss of enzymatic activity and a "slow" site which reacts in tens of minutes to produce complete inactivation of the enzyme. The slow site is protected when MgATP or MgADP is bound to the catalytic site of the ATPase. The present study demonstrates that the fluorescent reagent 5 [2-iodoacetamido)ethyl)-1-aminonaphthalenesulfonic acid (IAEDANS) can be used to label five of the eight cysteine residues of the Neurospora ATPase (Cys376, Cys409, Cys472, Cys532, Cys545). Tryptic peptides bearing those residues have been purified by high performance liquid chromatography and located within the known primary structure of the ATPase by amino acid analysis and/or sequencing. By pretreating the enzyme with NEM in the presence or absence of MgADP before incubation with IAEDANS, it has been possible to identify the fast NEM site as Cys545 and the slow MgADP-protectable NEM site as Cys532. Both residues lie within the central hydrophilic domain of the protein, close to a highly conserved stretch of amino acids that may be involved in nucleotide binding. However, all five IAEDANS-reactive cysteines can be nearly completely modified by the less bulky sulfhydryl reagent methyl methanethiosulfonate with less than 20% inhibition of enzyme activity; thus, none of the five cysteines can be considered to play a direct role in the reaction cycle of the ATPase. PMID- 2524487 TI - The binding of caldesmon to actin and its effect on the ATPase activity of soluble myosin subfragments in the presence and absence of tropomyosin. AB - The binding of 125I- and 14C-caldesmon to actin and actin-tropomyosin was studied using a cosedimentation technique and was analyzed by the method of McGhee and von Hippel [1974) J. Mol. Biol. 86, 469-489) for the binding of large ligands to a homogeneous lattice. The binding was adequately described by a single class of binding sites with a stoichiometry between 1:7 and 1:10. The binding exhibited a small degree of positive cooperativity (omega = 5-6) which was the same in the presence and absence of tropomyosin. The association constant for the binding of caldesmon to an isolated binding site was enhanced, from about 6 X 10(5) to about 1.4 X 10(6) M-1, by the presence of smooth muscle tropomyosin. Caldesmon inhibited the actin-activated ATPase activity of skeletal myosin subfragment 1 in both the absence and presence of tropomyosin. Maximum inhibition of ATPase activity occurred when one caldesmon molecule bound to seven actin monomers. A greater degree of inhibition was observed in the presence of tropomyosin than in the absence. This greater inhibition cannot be explained totally by the increased strength of binding of caldesmon to actin in the presence of tropomyosin. Finally, Ca2+-calmodulin completely reversed the binding of caldesmon to actin. PMID- 2524488 TI - Transcription of Xenopus selenocysteine tRNA Ser (formerly designated opal suppressor phosphoserine tRNA) gene is directed by multiple 5'-extragenic regulatory elements. AB - A tRNA gene whose product is aminoacylated with serine and the serine moiety is then phosphorylated to form phosphoseryl-tRNA (see Hatfield, D. (1985) Trends Biochem. Sci. 10, 201-204 for review) has now been shown to form selenocysteyl tRNA; hence the corresponding gene is designated as selenocysteine tRNA Ser (B. J. Lee, P. J. Worland, J. N. Davis, T. C. Stadtman, and D. Hatfield (1989) J. Biol. Chem. 264, in press). In the present study, we show that the expression of this unique tRNA gene is governed by at least three upstream regulatory elements. In initial studies, the relative efficiencies of transcription of the human, rabbit, chicken, and Xenopus selenocysteine tRNA genes were compared in vivo in Xenopus oocytes and in vitro in HeLa cell extracts. The Xenopus gene was severalfold more actively expressed, both in vivo and in vitro, than the human and rabbit genes, whereas the chicken gene was poorly expressed. Exchange of the 5'-flanking regions of the Xenopus and chicken genes, which have identical gene sequences, reversed their levels of transcription, demonstrating that a regulatory site or sites exist upstream of these genes. Deletion-substitution mutants in the Xenopus gene and its 5'-flanking sequence show in in vitro assays that 1) the level of transcription is reduced substantially when a GC-rich stretch that is immediately upstream of a TATA box in the -30 region is removed; 2) the level of transcription is virtually abolished when the TATA box is removed; and 3) deletions up to and further upstream of the GC-rich region do not affect the level of transcription. The same deletions, when used in in vivo assays, demonstrate a step-down in expression with the deletion removing the GC rich region, a further step-down in expression with the deletion removing the TATA box, but the most pronounced reduction in expression was observed with a deletion removing an AT-rich region between nucleotides -62 and -76. Thus, a regulatory site was identified in vivo which was not detected in vitro, and transcription of the selenocysteine tRNA Ser gene is determined by multiple upstream regulatory elements. PMID- 2524489 TI - Large-scale purification and characterization of the Escherichia coli rep gene product. AB - We report a procedure for the large-scale purification of the Escherichia coli Rep protein, a helicase that is involved in the replication of the E. coli chromosome as well as a number of single-stranded bacteriophages. The procedure starts with E. coli cells harboring an overproducing plasmid, pRepO, in which the E. coli rep gene is under transcriptional control of the inducible lambda PL promoter (Colasanti, J., and Denhardt, D. T. (1987) Mol. Gen. Genet. 209, 382 390). The purification procedure results in greater than 98% pure Rep protein, which is free of contaminating nuclease activity, with yields of 40-50 mg of Rep protein/50 g of induced MZ-1/pRepO cells. We also show that cell death occurs upon inducing such a large overproduction of the E. coli Rep protein in MZ 1/pRepO. The Rep protein purified by this procedure has high specific single stranded DNA-dependent ATPase activity, as well as helicase activity, with an apparent 3' to 5' directionality. The extinction coefficient of purified E. coli Rep protein is epsilon 280 = 1.16 +/- 0.04 ml mg-1 cm-1 (8.47 +/- 0.28 X 10(4) M 1 cm-1) in 10 mM Tris (pH 7.5), 20% (v/v) glycerol, 0.10 M NaCl at 25 degrees C. The solubility properties of the purified Rep protein have been examined as a function of glycerol, NaCl, MgCl2, ATP, and ADP concentrations at 25 and 37 degrees C (pH 7.5). Rep protein solubility decreases significantly with decreasing concentrations of glycerol and monovalent salt and increasing temperature; however, the presence of 1.5 mM ATP or ADP or MgCl2 at low NaCl concentrations increases the solubility. At 4 degrees C, in the presence of 20% glycerol and greater than or equal to 50 mM NaCl, the free Rep protein exists as a stable monomer under all conditions examined (+/- ATP and +/- MgCl2). The single-stranded DNA-dependent ATPase activity decreases with increasing glycerol concentration, such that in 25% (v/v) glycerol it has approximately 40% of its activity as compared to solutions that contain no glycerol. The dependence of the single-stranded DNA-dependent ATPase activity on salt concentration for a series of monovalent salts indicates the presence of both cation and anion effects, with decreasing activity in the order glutamate greater than acetate greater than chloride. The ability to obtain highly purified E. coli Rep protein in large quantities with relative ease will greatly facilitate physical characterizations of the protein and its interactions with DNA. PMID- 2524490 TI - Structure of the alpha and beta heavy chains of the outer arm dynein from Chlamydomonas flagella. Nucleotide binding sites. AB - The photoaffinity analogs 2-azidoadenosine 5'-tri(di)-phosphate (2-N3AT(D)P) and 8-azidoadenosine 5'-triphosphate (8-N3ATP) have been used to probe the substructural organization of the nucleotide binding pockets within the alpha and beta heavy chains of the outer arm dynein from Chlamydomonas flagella. Both 2 N3ATP and 8-N3ATP are competitive inhibitors of dynein ATP hydrolysis, and both analogs are themselves hydrolyzed by the alpha-beta dimer. Following vanadate dependent photolysis at the V1 site (by UV irradiation in the presence of Mg2+, ATP, and vanadate), both probes exclusively labeled the larger fragment from the alpha chain. In contrast, within the beta chain the predominant insertion sites for the two analogs were located on opposite sides of the V1 site. Therefore, the hydrolytic pockets of these two molecules have different substructures. Vanadate dependent photolysis of the alpha and beta chains at the V2 sites (by UV irradiation in the presence of vanadate and Mn2+) profoundly affected the predominant modification sites; for example, following photolysis at the V2a site neither fragment of the alpha chain was photolabeled by 2-N3ATP or 8-N3ATP. Based on the photolabeling patterns obtained, the single V2 site within the beta chain is predicted to be analogous to the V2b site within the alpha chain. The results support the hypothesis that the V2 sites occur within the ATP binding pockets, and indicate that these functional domains are composed of portions of the heavy chains which are linearly separated by up to at least 100,000 daltons. Thus, the central region of each dynein heavy chain must be extensively folded so as to bring the widely separated photocleavage and photolabeling sites together within a single catalytic unit. PMID- 2524491 TI - The chloroplast ATP synthase in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. I. Characterization of its nine constitutive subunits. AB - We have characterized the subunit composition of the chloroplast ATP synthase from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii by means of a comparison of the polypeptide deficiencies in a mutant defective in photophosphorylation, with the polypeptide content in purified coupling factor (CF)1 and CF1.CF0 complexes. We could distinguish nine subunits in the enzyme, four of which were CF0 subunits. Further characterization of these subunits was undertaken by immunoblotting experiments, [14C]dicyclohexylcarbodiimide binding and analysis of their site of translation. In particular, we were able to show the presence of an as yet unidentified delta subunit in CF1 from C. reinhardtii. We have identified a 70-kDa peripheral membrane protein in the thylakoid membranes of C. reinhardtii, which is immunologically related to the beta subunit of CF1. We discuss its conceivable ATPase function with respect to the Ca2+-dependent ATPase activity previously reported in the thylakoid membranes from C. reinhardtii. PMID- 2524492 TI - The chloroplast ATP synthase in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. II. Biochemical studies on its biogenesis using mutants defective in photophosphorylation. AB - We have carried out an analysis of the synthesis, cellular accumulation, and membrane binding of the chloroplast-encoded subunits of the ATP synthase (alpha, beta, epsilon, I, III, and IV) in several mutants of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii defective in photophosphorylation. These data gave some insight on the putative genetic lesion in each mutant and allowed some characterization of the assembly and stabilization of the ATP synthase complex in the thylakoid membranes. Four chloroplast mutants are likely to be altered in chloroplast structural genes coding for coupling factor (CF) 1 subunits beta and epsilon and for CF0 subunits I and IV. A fifth chloroplast mutant and three nuclear mutants were altered in genes regulating either transcription or translation of chloroplast genes coding for CF1 subunits alpha and beta and CF0 subunits III and IV. Evidence is presented (i) for a control of the rate of synthesis of subunit beta by subunit alpha in the absence of ATP synthase assembly and (ii) for an interaction between alpha and beta subunits in the stroma of the chloroplast which protects alpha subunits from proteolytic degradation. The role of several chloroplast-encoded subunits of CF0 and CF1 in the stabilization of partially assembled ATP synthase is discussed. We conclude that in the absence of ATP synthase assembly, CF0 cannot accumulate in the thylakoid membranes, whereas alpha and beta subunits, presumably engaged in soluble CF1, can accumulate in the stroma of the chloroplast. PMID- 2524493 TI - The effect of actin and phosphorylation on the tryptic cleavage pattern of Acanthamoeba myosin IA. AB - The Mg2+-ATPase activity of Acanthamoeba myosin IA is activated by F-actin only when the myosin heavy chain is phosphorylated at a single residue. In order to gain insight into the conformational changes that may be responsible for the effects of F-actin and phosphorylation on myosin I ATPase, we have studied their effects on the proteolysis of the myosin IA heavy chain by trypsin. Trypsin initially cleaves the unphosphorylated, 140-kDa heavy chain of Acanthamoeba myosin IA at sites 38 and 112 kDa from its NH2 terminus and secondarily at sites 64 and 91 kDa from the NH2 terminus. F-actin has no effect on tryptic cleavage at the 91- and 112-kDa sites, but does protect the 38-kDa site and the 64-kDa site. Phosphorylation (which occurs very near the 38-kDa site) has no detectable effect on the tryptic cleavage pattern in the absence of F-actin or on F-actin protection of the 64-kDa site, but significantly enhances F-actin protection of the 38-kDa site. Protection of the 64-kDa site is probably due to direct steric blocking because F-actin binds to this region of the heavy chain. The protection of the 38-kDa site by F-actin may be the result of conformational changes in this region of the heavy chain induced by F-actin binding near the 64-kDa site and by phosphorylation. The conformational changes in the heavy chain of myosin IA that are detected by alterations in its susceptibility to proteolysis are likely to be related to the conformational changes that are involved in the phosphorylation regulated actin-activated Mg2+-ATPase activities of Acanthamoeba myosins IA and IB. PMID- 2524494 TI - Non-carrier-mediated uptake of the mannosidase I inhibitor 1-deoxymannojirimycin by K562 erythroleukemic cells. AB - A 3H label was introduced at the C-1 position of the mannosidase I inhibitor 1 deoxymannojirimycin (dMM) by catalytic hydrogenolysis of benzyl-2,3-O isopropylidene-5-N-benzyl-6-O-benzyl-alpha-D-mannofurano side with 3H2. 1-[3H]dMM as well as its precursor 1-[3H]2,3-O-isopropylidene-dMM had identical Rf as the nonradioactive compounds on TLC. Furthermore, alpha 1-antitrypsin secreted by HepG2 cells was modified indistinguishably by treatment of the cells with dMM and 1-[3H]dMM. Thus, 1-[3H]dMM had chemical and biological properties identical with authentic dMM. Uptake of [14C]mannose by K562 cells could be inhibited by glucose but not by the mannose analogue dMM. Thus, dMM does not enter the cell through hexose transporter(s). Uptake of 1-[3H]dMM by K562 cells could not be inhibited by increasing concentrations of nonradioactive dMM (from 1-32,000 microM), showing transport of dMM into cells through nonfacilitated diffusion. Furthermore, uptake of 1-[3H]dMM by K562 cells was observed at 0 degrees C. PMID- 2524495 TI - Occurrence in vivo of selenocysteyl-tRNA(SERUCA) in Escherichia coli. Effect of sel mutations. AB - The selC gene of Escherichia coli codes for a novel tRNA species which is aminoacylated by L-serine and is required for the insertion of selenocysteine into proteins (Leinfelder, W., Zehelein, E., Mandrand-Berthelot, M.-A., and Bock, A. (1988) Nature 331, 723-725). As a first step toward the elucidation of the postulated pathway for selenocysteine formation from an L-serine residue esterified to tRNA, we have examined whether an increase in the selC gene dosage allows the demonstration of selenocysteyl-tRNA formation in vivo. To this end, cells of an E. coli strain carrying selC on a multicopy plasmid were labeled with [75Se]selenite, their tRNA was isolated and deacylated, and the hydrolysate was analyzed by thin layer chromatography and ion exchange chromatography. Both methods unequivocally demonstrated that the increase in the selC gene product concentration correlated with an augmented level of selenocysteine bound to tRNA. The formation of selenocysteine depended on the presence of functional products of the selA and selD genes but not of the selB gene. The selB gene product, therefore, may have a function in the decoding step itself. PMID- 2524496 TI - Subcellular binding and effects on calcium homeostasis produced by acetaminophen and a nonhepatotoxic regioisomer, 3'-hydroxyacetanilide, in mouse liver. AB - Acetaminophen (250 mg/kg) administered intraperitoneally to fasted, phenobarbital induced mice produced hepatotoxicity. No hepatotoxicity was observed after the administration of the regioisomer 3'-hydroxyacetanilide (600 mg/kg). Similar levels of covalent binding to liver homogenates occurred in mice receiving either acetaminophen or 3'-hydroxyacetanilide at these doses. However, subcellular fractionation techniques revealed that the acetaminophen treatment produced greater levels of covalent binding to mitochondrial proteins than 3' hydroxyacetanilide. In addition, acetaminophen depleted mitochondrial glutathione levels more extensively than 3'-hydroxyacetanilide. Plasma membrane calcium ATPase activity was reduced to 79.8% and 55.7% of control values at 1 h and 6 h, respectively, following the administration of acetaminophen. No inhibition of this enzyme was detected in mice receiving 3'-hydroxyacetanilide. Acetaminophen also induced alterations in mitochondrial calcium levels and decreased the ability of isolated mitochondria to sequester calcium. These effects were not produced by 3'-hydroxyacetanilide. Our results indicate that acetaminophen induces alterations in calcium homeostasis while 3'-hydroxyacetanilide does not. PMID- 2524497 TI - Different receptor subtypes mediate the dual presynaptic effects of 5 hydroxytryptamine on peripheral sympathetic neurones. AB - 1. The aim of the present work was to characterize the presynaptic 5-HT receptors that mediate either the facilitation of the responses to nerve stimulation in the nictitating membrane of the cat or the inhibition of the responses to nerve stimulation in the guinea-pig atria. 2. In the nictitating membrane of the cat, the shift to the left in the frequency-response curves produced by 5-HT (0.1 microM) was prevented by the 5-HT3 receptor antagonists, metoclopramide (1 microM) and MDL 72222 (0.01 microM). 3. The facilitatory effect of 5-HT is also prevented by the 5-HT2 receptor antagonist, 0.01 microM ketanserin. Nevertheless, this drug reduced by itself the responses to both nerve stimulation and exogenous NA in the nictitating membrane. 4. In the guinea-pig isolated atria, the inhibitory effect of 5-HT on the chronotropic responses to cardioaccelerans nerve stimulation was mimicked by the mixed 5-HT1A + 5-HT1B + 5-HT1D receptor agonist 5 carboxamidotryptamine (5-CT 0.1 and 1 microM). The 5-HT1A receptor agonist 8-OH DPAT (0.1 and 1 microM) did not modify the responses of the atria to the nerve stimulation. 5. The 5-HT2 receptor antagonists, ketanserin (0.01 and 0.1 microM) and cyproheptadine (1 microM), did not prevent the inhibitory effect of 5-HT in the guinea-pig atria. 6. The present results suggest that the facilitatory effects of 5-HT in the nictitating membrane of the cat are linked to the activation of 5-HT3 receptors whereas the inhibitory effects observed in the guinea-pig atria are mediated by 5-HT1-like receptors. PMID- 2524498 TI - Development of compliance chamber diaphragms with reduced permeability. AB - The implantable ventricular assist systems currently undergoing clinical readiness testing shuttle the displaced gas between the non-blood side of the pumping diaphragm and an elastic chamber generally called a "compliance chamber" or variable volume device. The movement of the stored gas allows the pump to fill and empty without compression or expansion of the gas behind the pump diaphragm. The material used for the construction of compliance chambers should be fatigue resistant to withstand the 63 million flexes per year of the blood pump. The material should also be biocompatible and highly impervious to gases. Significant diffusion of gases from the compliance system necessitates external make-up gases to somehow be added to the internal system. Material selection is complicated by the fact that most fatigue-resistant elastomers also have high gas permeability. In order to solve this problem, bilayer compliance chambers have been developed using biocompatible and fatigue-resistant polyolefin rubber comolded with relatively impervious butyl rubber. PMID- 2524499 TI - Determination of isradipine and the oxidative pyridine metabolite in human plasma by high-performance liquid chromatography. PMID- 2524500 TI - Circadian, ultradian, and episodic release of beta-endorphin in men, and its temporal coupling with cortisol. AB - beta-Endorphin and ACTH derive from a common peptide precursor. Although much is known about the physiological patterns of ACTH release, neither the minute to minute regulation of beta-endorphin secretion nor its temporal relationship to cortisol has been characterized. As an initial step to defining the regulation of beta-endorphin release in man, we studied the circadian periodicity, ultradian rhythmicity, and episodic pulsatility of serum beta-endorphin concentrations in seven normal men. Blood sampling was conducted at 10-min intervals for 24 h, and the subsequent serum samples were assayed by a two-site immunoradiometric assay. Computerized analysis of the subsequent beta-endorphin time series revealed a mean beta-endorphin pulse frequency of 13 +/- 1 (+/- SE) peaks/24 h, corresponding to an interpulse interval of 100 +/- 7 min. The mean maximal peak height of beta-endorphin pulses was 31 +/- 3 pg/mL (9.0 +/- 0.8 pmol/L), which represented an incremental increase of 11 +/- 1 pg/mL 3.2 +/- 0.4 pmol/L; 63 +/- 13%) above the preceding nadir. The average beta-endorphin peak exhibited a duration of 68 +/- 6 min. Fourier analysis revealed a significant circadian amplitude of 6 +/- 1 pg/mL (1.6 +/- 0.4 pmol/L; 23% of the 24-h mean concentration), with an acrophase (time of maximum value) at 1043 h (+/- 40 min). Spectral analysis also disclosed beta-endorphin rhythms with mean periodicities of 29 +/- 4, 42 +/- 4, and 61 +/- 5 min. Gel filtration chromatography confirmed that serum beta-endorphin peaks contained significantly more immunoactive beta endorphin [62 pg/mL (18 pmol/L)] than did the flanking nadirs [16 and 18 pg/mL (4.6 and 5.2 pmol/L)]. Auto- and cross-correlation analyses of serum beta endorphin and cortisol concentrations followed by autoregressive modeling disclosed that all seven men had significant positive cross-correlations between serum beta-endorphin and cortisol considered simultaneously or when cortisol lagged beta-endorphin by 10 min. A negative cross-correlation was found in five of the seven men when cortisol was considered to lead beta-endorphin by 20 or 30 minutes. We conclude that beta-endorphin is released physiologically in a pulsatile manner with circadian and ultradian rhythmicity and a close temporal coupling to cortisol. PMID- 2524502 TI - Endocrine changes during 48 hours of food withdrawal in the pregnant rhesus monkey in the last third of gestation. AB - We studied the hormonal responses in four pregnant rhesus monkeys between 112 and 149 days gestation. After 2 days, during which the monkeys were fed ad libitum, their food was withdrawn at 1500 h for 48 h while allowing free access to water. The food then was returned, and the animals were studied for a further 2 days. The mean maternal whole blood glucose concentration significantly decreased, and plasma cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) concentrations significantly increased within 30 h of food withdrawal (P less than 0.05). The maternal plasma estradiol concentration increased significantly at 1000 h on the second day of food withdrawal (P less than 0.05), whereas the plasma progesterone concentration did not change. The maternal blood glucose and plasma cortisol, DHEAS and estradiol concentrations returned to baseline by the second day of food replacement. We conclude that the stress of hypoglycemia and/or the attendant inability to eat, together or separately, stimulate maternal adrenal glucocorticoid and androgen secretion during the period of food withdrawal. The increased maternal DHEAS and perhaps other adrenal androgen concentrations result in increased maternal estrogen production. PMID- 2524501 TI - Recovery of hormone secretion after chronic gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist administration in women with polycystic ovarian disease. AB - Persistent suppression of gonadotropin and ovarian steroid production can be achieved in women with polycystic ovarian disease (PCO) by daily administration of a long-acting GnRH agonist (GnRHa). This study was designed to determine the patterns of recovery of clinical responses and hormonal secretion after chronic GnRHa administration in women with PCO. Six women with PCO were treated with daily sc injections of [D-His6(imBzl),Pro9-NEt]GnRHa (100 micrograms) for 6 months. Blood samples were obtained at the time of and three times weakly for 90 days after discontinuation of agonist therapy. In five women who did not ovulate, the suppressed serum FSH levels rose to pretreatment values within 10 days. In contrast, a gradual and progressive increase in serum LH (as measured by bioassay and immunoassay) was apparent by day 18. The LH increase coincided with progressive increases in serum estrone (E1), androstenedione, and testosterone. Serum estradiol (E2) began to rise on day 28. All hormones returned to their pretreatment baseline values within the 90-day recovery interval, with the exception of E2. Trend analysis of the slopes of recovery revealed that the incremental secretion patterns of E1, E2, androstenedione, and testosterone differed significantly from that of FSH, but not from those of bioactive or immunoactive LH. Serum progesterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, and cortisol did not change after withdrawal of GnRHa. One woman ovulated spontaneously on day 52 before which her hormone secretion patterns were indistinguishable from those of the other women. In summary, 1) during recovery after discontinuation of chronic GnRH agonist therapy the patterns of FSH and LH release suggested resumption of endogenous GnRH action on the pituitary with greater release of FSH than LH, a pattern that would be expected in the absence of ovarian steroid influence; 2) the lack of early estrogen production despite the increase in serum FSH concentrations suggests inadequate FSH secretion, abnormal ovarian responsiveness to FSH, or impaired FSH bioactivity; 3) androgen secretion was provoked by the increase in LH secretion; 4) per unit LH measured by bioassay, greater ovarian androgen secretion was stimulated in PCO than ovulatory women; and 5) the likelihood of spontaneous ovulation during recovery was minimal. PMID- 2524503 TI - Beta-endorphin suppresses rat plaque-forming cell response by a non-opioid mechanism. AB - The opioid peptide beta h-endorphin 1-31 inhibited the plaque-forming cell (PFC) response to sheep red blood cells when rat splenocytes, immunized in vivo, were cultured in vitro with the peptide. The opioid antagonist naloxone failed to reverse the beta h-endorphin 1-31 suppression of the PFC response. Peptide fragments of beta h-endorphin 1-31, other opioid peptides, and alkaloids had no effect on the response. These data indicate that beta h-endorphin 1-31 suppresses antibody production or secretion by a specific, non-opioid receptor on the rat splenocytes. PMID- 2524504 TI - Inhibition of osteoclast-like cell formation by bisphosphonates in long-term cultures of human bone marrow. AB - Bisphosphonates inhibit bone resorption in vivo and in vitro by unknown mechanisms. The effect of bisphosphonates on the formation of osteoclasts from their mononuclear hematopoietic precursors was investigated using human long-term marrow cultures in which multinucleated cells form that express most of the known features of the osteoclast phenotype (e.g., bone resorption, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase, calcitonin responsiveness, and reactivity with specific MAbs). The five bisphosphonates that were tested strongly inhibited 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D3-stimulated formation of these cells with the same relative potencies as they inhibit bone resorption in vivo. Two representative compounds (3-amino-1-hydroxypropylidene-1,1-bisphosphonate and dichloromethylene bisphosphonate) failed to inhibit the proliferation of precursors of the osteoclast-like cells. However, these compounds decreased the proportion of mononuclear and multinucleated cells expressing an osteoclast antigen, thus suggesting a degree of specificity for cells of the osteoclast lineage. We conclude that bisphosphonates are potent inhibitors of osteoclast-like cell formation in long-term human marrow cultures, and that this may be related to their ability to inhibit bone resorption in vivo. PMID- 2524505 TI - Acute and chronic pain: pain dimensions and psychological status. AB - One hundred and ten outpatients with either acute or chronic low-back pain completed the McGill Pain Questionnaire, Beck Depression Inventory, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, and Life Experiences Survey. Acutes and chronics did not differ on dimensions of pain, but significant correlations between pain dimensions and depression and state anxiety were found for chronics. Both groups showed elevated state anxiety; chronics also evidenced mild depression. Combined scores on depression, anxiety, and negative life change predicted sensory and affective pain for the pooled sample. These results confirm the role of psychological variables in the experience of clinical pain and underscore the highly affective nature of chronic pain. PMID- 2524507 TI - Pretreatment systolic orthostatic blood pressure depression in Down's syndrome. PMID- 2524506 TI - Effect of initial treatment of chronic inflammatory periodontal disease in adults on spontaneous peripheral blood lymphocyte proliferation. AB - The spontaneous proliferative response (SPR) of peripheral blood lymphocytes, as a measure of the autologous mixed lymphocyte reaction (AMLR), has been found to be depressed in adults with chronic inflammatory periodontal disease (CIPD). The aim of the present study was to test the hypothesis that initial treatment of CIPD in adults restores the SPR to normal levels. 10 periodontal disease subjects (mean probing attachment loss of 4.2 mm and a mean bleeding index of 0.65) and 10 age- and sex-matched healthy control subjects were studied. The SPR for each patient was evaluated on days 3, 5, 7, 9 and 11 in culture, before and after initial treatment for CIPD. The peak SPR, which occurred at day 5, was depressed in the untreated periodontal disease subjects compared to the healthy control subjects (p less than 0.01). In addition, the kinetics of the SPR were found to be significantly different in 4 of the 10 parameters compared with the untreated periodontal disease patients and the healthy control subjects. After treatment, there was a significant reduction in probing attachment loss and bleeding indexes (p less than 0.001). In addition, the magnitude of the peak SPR was not significantly different from that of the healthy control subjects. Nevertheless, a difference in 1 of the 10 kinetic parameters persisted, which suggested that complete restoration of the SPR to normal had not occurred so soon after treatment.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2524508 TI - Muscular dystrophy-like disease in a thoroughbred foal. AB - A 1-month-old male thoroughbred foal, which had difficulty in walking, was killed and examined by histological, histochemical and ultrastructural methods. The muscles of the trunk and upper hind limbs were chiefly affected, and changes in the affected muscles resembled those in muscular dystrophy in man. The type of muscular dystrophy present in this foal and the significance of this disease in thoroughbred horses are discussed. The dystrophy in this foal resembled the limb girdle type or myotonic dystrophy of muscular dystrophy in man. PMID- 2524509 TI - Cine MR imaging in aortic stenosis. AB - The potential of cine magnetic resonance (MR) imaging for the assessment of aortic stenosis (AS) was investigated in 17 patients. The severity of AS was graded by continuous wave Doppler ultrasound as severe in 10 of 17 patients and as moderate in the remaining 7 patients. Cine MR demonstrated a flow disturbance proximal and/or distal to the aortic valve plane in all 17 patients. This flow disturbance was seen as a signal void with four typical features: (a) a high velocity jet phenomenon distal to the valve plane during systole, closely related to the stenotic orifice (8 of 17); (b) a turbulent systolic signal void in continuity with the jet, which propagated for a variable extent into the aorta (17 of 17); (c) a signal void just proximal to the valve plane during systolic ejection, reflecting prestenotic acceleration of blood flow (5 of 17); and (d) a void at the valve plane due to valvular calcifications (14 of 17). The following features or a combination thereof appeared to correlate with more severe grades of AS as visualized on cine MR display: (a) identification of narrow high velocity jet phenomenon; (b) extensive propagation of the turbulent signal void into the aorta; and (c) presence of a prestenotic acceleration effect. Assessment of the severity of AS with cine MR is still limited. However, cine MR can identify the presence of AS and several flow phenomena that correlate with more severe degrees of stenosis. PMID- 2524510 TI - Pediatric dentistry in a period of decreasing numbers of dentists. AB - The availability of pediatric dental services is considered in terms of the projected decreases in the numbers of dentists to provide services to the general population. This decrease is further accentuated by the dental practice patterns of an increasing number of female dentists, many of whom demonstrate a particular interest in the care of children. There is an evolving demand for pediatric dental services, and a growing number of pediatric dentists overall. PMID- 2524511 TI - Tetralogy of Fallot: characteristics, dental implications and case study. PMID- 2524512 TI - Special pediatric population groups and their use of dental services. AB - With special training and experience, many pediatric dentists are at the forefront in the care of the special population groups: the developmentally disabled; the chronically and the acutely ill; the hospitalized patient; the high risk patient; and a variety of others with special needs. PMID- 2524513 TI - It is still a tough fight. PMID- 2524514 TI - Clinical, histological, and immunohistological studies of postoperative erythroderma. AB - We report 7 cases of acute fatal illness characterized by fever, diffuse erythematous rash, and progressive leukopenia occurring 10 days after surgical operation. The outcome was uniformly fatal. The biopsy findings consisted of eosinophilic individual necrosis of epidermal cells, satellite cell necrosis, basal liquefaction degeneration, and scanty cell infiltration into the dermis. T lymphocytes were found in the epidermis but Langerhans cells disappeared. These findings are compatible with acute graft-vs-host disease following blood transfusion. Explanations based upon drug allergy, infection, toxic shock syndrome, or toxic epidermal necrolysis seem less reasonable. PMID- 2524515 TI - Prognostic importance of atrial natriuretic peptide in patients with chronic heart failure. AB - Several circulating neurohormones have been shown to have prognostic significance in patients with chronic heart failure, but the relation between plasma levels of atrial natriuretic peptide and mortality in this disorder remains unknown. Plasma levels of immunoreactive atrial natriuretic peptide were measured in 102 patients in whom left ventricular ejection fraction, ventricular arrhythmias on ambulatory electrocardiographic recording and plasma levels of norepinephrine, renin activity, aldosterone and arginine vasopressin were also measured. Compared with patients with atrial natriuretic peptide concentrations below the median value of 125 pg/ml, patients with higher levels of the peptide had a higher plasma renin activity (8.9 +/- 1.8 versus 2.6 +/- 0.4 ng/ml per h) and plasma norepinephrine (858 +/- 116 versus 538 +/- 45 pg/ml), more frequent premature ventricular depolarizations (4,485 +/- 715 versus 2,004 +/- 495/day) and more advanced hemodynamic abnormalities (all p less than 0.05). During the subsequent 13 to 25 months of follow-up, patients with high levels of atrial natriuretic peptide had a significantly lower rate of survival than did those whose initial circulating peptide concentrations were normal or mildly increased (p = 0.01). These data indicate that, in patients with chronic heart failure, plasma atrial natriuretic peptide provides important prognostic information. This may relate to the ability of the hormone to reflect the interplay of several pathophysiologic factors that contribute to mortality in this disease. PMID- 2524516 TI - Laser-assisted thermal angioplasty in human peripheral artery occlusions: mechanism of recanalization. AB - Recanalization of completely occluded superficial femoral or popliteal arteries was attempted in 18 patients with use of an Argon laser-mediated thermal probe. The length of the occluded segments varied between 0.5 and 26.0 cm, but 67% of the occlusions were greater than 9 cm long. The initial success rate was 67%. Arterial perforation occurred in six patients but was not associated with major complications. To study the mechanism of the laser-mediated thermal probe, thermal recanalization was performed on 11 human arterial segments in vitro obtained after amputation, and mechanical recanalization was performed in vitro in 10 human peripheral arteries with use of a guide wire and catheter technique. An additional four arteries were studied with the laser probe as a non-heated mechanical device. Both the mechanical and thermal devices appear to follow a similar pathway through a complete obstruction. These studies suggest that the thermal probe burns through soft fibrous tissue but is mechanically deflected away from hard fibrocalcific plaque. The probe then advances along the plane between the intimal plaque and the media for a variable length before perforating through the adventitia. These observations suggest that the major mechanism of thermal probe recanalization may be a mechanical process. It appears that thermal probe devices do not inherently seek the true lumen of an occluded artery and that better guidance systems need to be developed. PMID- 2524517 TI - Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of peripheral vascular occlusions: a clinical perspective. PMID- 2524518 TI - Recanalization of arterial occlusions: pathologic basis and contributing factors. PMID- 2524519 TI - Circulating atrial natriuretic factor activates vagal afferent inputs to paraventriculo-spinal neurones in the rat. AB - In urethane-anaesthetised, paralysed and artificially ventilated rats (300-350 g b.wt.), i.v. bolus injection of 3-5 micrograms atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) inhibited the activity of 5/8 (62.5%) antidromically identified spinally projecting neurones in the parvocellular portion of the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus for periods of 6-40 min, mean 24 min. In contrast a much lower dose of ANF (250 ng) evoked a strong excitatory response in 37.5% of cells tested and either a weak inhibition or no effect on the remainder. Both inhibitory and excitatory effects were absent in bilaterally vagotomised animals. The results are discussed in relation to the role of circulating ANF in activating vagal afferent inputs to the paraventricular nucleus during volume loading. PMID- 2524520 TI - The inductive effects of progestogens on aromatase activity in stromal cells of human uterine endometrium. AB - Aromatase activity for androstenedione was measured in stromal cells of human uterine endometrium throughout the menstrual cycle. The effect of progestogen on aromatase activity was also examined in the endometrial stromal cells. Aromatase activity tended to be high in the proliferative cells compared to the secretory cells. Moreover, its enzyme activity was enhanced at the concentration of 0.1 or 1.0 microM of medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) and norethindrone (ENT) in all phases of menstrual cycle. MPA stimulated aromatase activity in the stromal cells more strongly than did ENT. These results may suggest that although aromatase in uterine endometrium is not regarded to be so much influenced by endogenous progesterone during menstruation, the increase of aromatase activity by progestogen added lead to the more differentiated endometrium. PMID- 2524521 TI - Raised plasma levels of atrial natriuretic peptides in Addison's disease. AB - Plasma levels of atrial natriuretic peptides (ANP) were significantly higher in 7 patients with treated Addison's disease (15.8 +/- 8.8 pg/ml, mean +/- SD) than in 7 control subjects (6.1 +/- 3.8 pg/ml) matched for sex, age, body weight and blood pressure. All subjects were studied on their usual sodium intake and had similar urinary sodium excretions. These findings indicate inappropriately high levels of plasma ANP in patients with treated Addison's disease and are possibly due to the lack of adrenal control on ANP synthesis and/or secretion in these patients. PMID- 2524522 TI - Surgical treatment of epidermolytic hereditary palmoplantar keratoderma. AB - We report the case of a man with epidermolytic hereditary palmoplantar keratoderma. After failure of topical and systemic therapy, excision and skin grafting of both hands was done in several steps. Attention must be given to the skin-repair procedures (split- or full-thickness grafting), and the exact setting of the suture lines in the fingers is important. PMID- 2524523 TI - Early experience with the Palmaz stent in human iliac angioplasty. PMID- 2524524 TI - Effects of chronic ACE inhibition on cardiac hypertrophy and coronary vascular reserve in spontaneously hypertensive rats with developed hypertension. AB - Left ventricular hypertrophy due to hypertension is associated with a decrease of coronary vascular reserve. We have previously shown that chronic angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition prevents cardiac hypertrophy and improves coronary vascular reserve when the treatment is started before appearance of hypertension in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). However, the effects of starting chronic ACE inhibition when hypertension was already developed is not known. The goal of the present study was to assess the effects of chronic ACE inhibition on coronary vascular reserve and on the morphology of the coronary microvasculature when treatment was started after hypertension had developed. For this purpose, one group of SHR was treated from 3-8 months of age with cilazapril, a new ACE inhibitor, and compared with a group treated by placebo. At the end of treatment, cardiac hypertrophy, coronary vascular reserve, density and cross-sectional surface area of the myocardial capillaries (normalized for the myocardial mass) and wall/lumen ratio of the coronary arterioles were determined. Chronic ACE inhibition with cilazapril reduced cardiac hypertrophy and improved by more than 50% coronary vascular reserve in the left and right ventricles. In the left ventricle, the improvement was more pronounced in the subendocardium than in the subepicardium. Cilazapril increased the density and the cross sectional surface area of the myocardial capillaries and decreased the wall/lumen ratio of the arterioles of the left ventricle. We conclude that chronic ACE inhibition can improve coronary vascular reserve, increase capillary density and capillary cross-sectional surface area and decrease the thickness of the media of coronary arterioles in SHR even when treatment is started after development of hypertension. PMID- 2524525 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor release during angiotensin II infusion in right and left atrial appendectomized rats. AB - The effect of selective right or left atrial appendectomy on atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) release was studied in the rat to compare the relative contribution of each atrium in a situation of increased afterload. Sham-operated or right (RAA) or left (LAA) atrial appendectomized conscious rats were infused (intravenously) for 60 min with a pressor dose of angiotensin II (Ang II; 600 ng/kg per min). All groups presented a significant and similar elevation of mean arterial pressure (MAP) and left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP). No change in central venous pressure (CVP) was noted in the LAA group, whereas a small, transient rise was observed in the two other groups. The Ang II-induced release of ANF C-terminal was blunted in the RAA group (P less than 0.01 versus sham) and more so in the LAA group (P less than 0.001 versus sham). Atrial natriuretic factor N-terminal release was blunted only in the LAA group (P less than 0.05 versus sham). No correlation was found between CVP and ANF in any group. The relationship between LVEDP and ANF in the sham-operated controls became weaker in the LAA group and was lost in the RAA group. We conclude that both atria play a role in the ANF release induced by a vasoconstrictor agent, but changes in left heart haemodynamics may be the first to be involved in the response to an increased afterload. PMID- 2524526 TI - Growth factor production and requirements during the proliferative response of human T lymphocytes to anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody. AB - Anti-CD3 was administered with three different accessory stimuli to purified populations of human T cells. Sepharose conjugated anti-CD3, monocytes, and PMA each could induce the p55 component of the IL-2R as well as responsiveness to exogenous IL-2. Sepharose anti-CD3 did not induce IL-2, although the levels of IL 2 protein and mRNA were 10 to 30 times higher with PMA than with monocytes. Despite these differences in IL-2 production, the amount of DNA synthesis and the number of lymphoblasts were comparable when monocytes or PMA were used as the accessory stimulus, and the responses were equally sensitive to inhibition by an anti-IL-2R antibody. To pursue the functional relevance of the "supraoptimal" levels of IL-2 that are induced by PMA, anti-CD3-induced lymphoblasts were isolated free of monocytes and challenged with lymphokines. It could be shown that 1) the small amounts of IL-2 in the monocyte-T cell conditioned medium would drive DNA synthesis, but that 2) higher levels of IL-2 (20 to 100 U/ml) were needed to induce IFN-gamma, as well as the mRNA for IL-4 and the p55 IL-2R. We suggest that the capacity to produce high levels of IL-2, as seen with PMA, is required under physiologic conditions for two reasons: to up-regulate the IL-2R when small amounts of Ag rather than large amounts of anti-CD3 are ligands for the T cell, or to induce the release of lymphokines like IL-4 and IFN-gamma from sensitized lymphoblasts. PMID- 2524527 TI - Retention of ligand binding activity by the extracellular domain of the IL-1 receptor. AB - The IL-1R on murine T cells is an 80-kDa cell surface glycoprotein which binds both IL-1 alpha and IL-1 beta. We have recently isolated a cDNA clone encoding this molecule. From the primary sequence mature receptor is predicted to be a 557 residue integral membrane protein with a 319 residue carbohydrate-rich extracellular region. We have constructed a cDNA clone encoding this region of the protein (residues 1 to 316). Expression of this cDNA in HeLa cells leads to secretion of a soluble IL-1 alpha binding protein into the culture medium. Quantitative binding experiments with the truncated receptor show that it possesses IL-1 binding properties which are indistinguishable from those of full length IL-1R. Gel filtration chromatography experiments show that a complex can be formed between a single truncated receptor molecule and a single IL-1 alpha molecule. PMID- 2524528 TI - Synthetic peptide corresponding to a conserved domain of the retroviral protein p15E blocks IL-1-mediated signal transduction. AB - We studied the mode of action of the synthetic peptide CKS-17, which is a heptadecapeptide homologous to a highly conserved region of the immunosuppressive retroviral envelope protein p15E, as well as to envelope proteins of the human T cell leukemia virus I and II. Previous studies have established that CKS-17 conjugated to BSA (CKS-17-BSA) inhibited IL-1-mediated tumor toxicity in melanoma cells and proliferation in murine Th clones. We examined the effects of CKS-17 BSA on IL-1 action. CKS-17-BSA did not bind to IL-1, nor did it affect the number of IL-1 receptors, their binding affinity, or their ability to internalize IL-1. However, CKS-17-BSA inhibited production of IL-2 by murine thymoma cells treated with IL-1 or with 12-O-tetradecanoyl phorbol-13 acetate. The potent protein kinase C inhibitor, H7, also inhibited IL-1-mediated responses, while HA1004, a weak inhibitor of protein kinase C, did not. Protein kinase C activity in the cytosolic fraction prepared from thymoma cells was found to be inhibited by CKS 17-BSA in a dose-dependent manner. All of these findings are consistent with the idea that CKS-17-BSA inhibits IL-1-mediated responses by interfering with signal transduction through a protein kinase C pathway. PMID- 2524529 TI - Binding of model immune complexes to erythrocyte CR1 facilitates immune complex uptake by U937 cells. AB - The E C3b/C4b receptor (CR1) has been shown to rapidly bind large complement fixing immune complexes (IC) both in vivo and in vitro. It has been proposed that E (RBC) CR1 act as a shuttle mechanism, binding circulating IC and transporting them to tissue macrophages, thereby preventing their deposition in target tissues. In this study we have established an in vitro model system with which to study the transfer of model IC from CR1 on the RBC surface to phagocytic cells. Aggregated IgG (AHG) was opsonized with C3b, bound to RBC CR1, and the binding of these RBC-bound IC by a human monocyte cell line (U937 cells) was examined. U937 binding of AHG from the RBC surface was complete within 2 min, whereas binding of the same AHG from solution required 30 to 60 min. Despite the difference in kinetics of binding, the total amount of IC bound by U937 cells at equilibrium was the same for RBC-bound AHG and for AHG in solution. The transfer of AHG from the RBC to the U937 cell did not require exogenous factor I and was not accompanied by binding of RBC to U937 cells or by erythrophagocytosis. Our data lend support to the hypothesis that binding of IC to RBC CR1 may facilitate the clearance of IC from the circulation by enhancing their uptake by phagocytic cells. PMID- 2524530 TI - Persistent suppression of virus-specific cytotoxic T cell responses after transient depletion of CD4+ T cells in vivo. AB - Co-administration of soluble Ag and anti-CD4 mAb has been successfully used to induce long term Ag-specific tolerance. The mechanisms underlying persistent immunologic unresponsiveness are unclear. We have now studied whether tolerance toward complex viral Ag expressed on Moloney sarcoma virus (MSV)-transformed tumor cells can be induced when given at the time of severe helper cell depletion. Although mice that had been injected with anti-CD4 mAb at the time of immunization regained the ability to recognize MSV Ag, their humoral and cytotoxic immunity to MSV were severely compromised. Ag-specific low responsiveness was maintained for more than 6 mo. To analyze the T cell repertoire of low responder mice we have estimated precursor frequencies of MSV specific proliferative and cytotoxic T cells after the CD4+ T cell subset was fully reconstituted. There was no difference in the frequencies of control and low responder mice excluding clonal deletion as the mechanism maintaining low responsiveness. In co-culture experiments the defect in low responder mice could be localized to the regenerated CD4+ T cell subset, suggesting the induction of CD4+ suppressor-inducer cells. Alternatively, regenerated CD4+ cells in anti-CD4 conditioned mice had acquired a defect to provide help for MSV-specific responses. In spite of the potentials to induce low responsiveness to selected Ag by anti-CD4 conditioning, the risk to cause persistent virus-specific immunodeficiency might limit the clinical application of anti-CD4 therapy. PMID- 2524531 TI - A rapid and direct method for the detection and quantification of interleukin-1 receptors using 96 well filtration plates. AB - A rapid method for the detection and quantification of interleukin-1 receptors in cultured cells has been developed. The receptor binding assay is carried out in sealed 96 well filtration plates. At the end of the incubation period the seal is removed and the cells are filtered under vacuum to separate free ligand from bound. After washing several times, individual wells are removed using a well punch and counted in a gamma counter. The method is rapid, accurate and capable of high sample throughput and should find wide application as a screen to evaluate IL-1-like drugs. PMID- 2524532 TI - Human non-transformed monocyte-derived macrophage cell lines. AB - We have demonstrated that human blood monocyte-derived macrophages can be passaged from primary cultures and replicate. Passaged cells have typical macrophage characteristics: they are non-specific esterase positive, phagocytic, and respond to 3 days of treatment with interferon-gamma with enhanced production of superoxide on stimulation with PMA. The passaged cells express Fc, CR1, CR3 and FMLP receptors. Both primary and passaged cultures constitutively produce CSF 1 after 3 weeks in culture. Cultures studied between 7 and 16 weeks in culture produce 3712 +/- 478 U of CSF-1 per 10(6) cells. Randomly selected lines were examined to look for cell proliferation by looking at numbers of cells over time and by labelling cells with tritiated thymidine to determine the number of cells synthesizing DNA. In addition, the cells can be frozen at the time of isolation and stored for at least 1 year, and then thawed and shown to retain functional activity. Human monocyte-derived macrophages can be cultured as finite cell lines. PMID- 2524534 TI - Legislators aren't really intimidating. PMID- 2524533 TI - Activity of various glycopeptides against an inducibly vancomycin-resistant strain of Enterococcus faecium (D366). PMID- 2524535 TI - Protected eyes make sports safer. PMID- 2524536 TI - Converting to ECCE in developing countries--a nursing challenge. PMID- 2524537 TI - Private ophthalmic scrub nurses--benefit or risk to patient care? PMID- 2524539 TI - RCT proposal not all bad? PMID- 2524538 TI - Research hypotheses: stated expectations of the investigator. PMID- 2524540 TI - Focus on areas of practice. PMID- 2524541 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) in relation to blood pressure: a study in middle aged men with normal and elevated blood pressure. AB - In order to investigate the potential role of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) in mild to moderate essential hypertension, a study was conducted in groups of normotensive and hypertensive middle-aged men born in 1926 and 1927. Venous plasma concentrations of immunoreactive ANP (irANP) were studied in relation to measurements of cardiac structure and function, urinary electrolytes as well as some cardiovascular hormones. Plasma irANP did not differ between normotensive controls (31 +/- 14 pmol l-1) and borderline or untreated hypertensive patients. However, irANP concentrations were slightly but significantly (P less than 0.05) lower in the borderline (26 +/- 8 pmol l-1) compared to the untreated established hypertensives (35 +/- 14 pmol l-1). No relationships were found between irANP and blood pressure, indices of left ventricular structure and function or hormone parameters in subgroups or the whole study group. Our data do not support the view that plasma irANP is increased in uncomplicated essential hypertension, since our groups of borderline or established hypertensive middle-aged men without major cardiac involvement did not differ in irANP concentrations compared to normotensive controls. Thus, during the development or in the early stages of essential hypertension, ANP secretion does not seem to be abnormal. PMID- 2524542 TI - Fractionation of urinary 17-ketosteroids by gas chromatography: a neglected procedure in the assessment of hyperandrogenicity in the hirsute female. AB - 17-Ketosteroids were determined by gas chromatography in twenty four-hour urine samples from 62 hirsute females. The method permitted the determination of androsterone (A), aetiocholanolone (E) and dehydroepiandrosterone (D). Elevated concentrations of one or more of these metabolites were detected in 81% of the samples. Two main patterns of hyperandrogenicity were observed: 1) Hyper A + E (27%) and 2) Hyper A (26%). Elevated AD, AED, D, ED or E were less common, but in total these patterns comprised another 28%. The plasma testosterone and total urinary 17-ketosteroid concentrations were elevated in only 21% and 23% of the samples, respectively. Thirty two out of 33 patients with elevated urine metabolites showed significant suppression following dexamethasone administration (2 mg/day during 6 days). Thus, dexamethasone suppressable hyperandrogenicity was predominant in this group of hirsute females. Elevations of urinary androsterone and aetiocholanolone are probably contingent on the relative activities of 5 alpha- and 5 beta-reductases) in the presence of increased androstenedione secretion. Elevations of urinary dehydroepiandrosterone suggest decreased adrenal cortical 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase) activity. Thus, fractionation of urinary 17-ketosteroids seems to be an effective test in the evaluation of hirsutism. PMID- 2524543 TI - A bias interpretation of facilitation in perceptual identification. AB - In a typical perceptual identification task, a word is presented for a few milliseconds and masked; then subjects are asked to report the word. It has been found that an earlier presentation of the test word will improve identification of the test word by as much as 30%. In addition, this facilitation has been shown to be preserved under amnesia. In this article we examine a fundamental question: Is the facilitation the result of bias toward the earlier presented item, an improvement in perceptual sensitivity, or both? The experiments presented here use a forced choice procedure to show that prior presentation of an item biases the subject to choose that item but does not improve discriminability. This result is obtained when the distractor items are visually similar to the target items. When distractors are dissimilar, earlier presentation affects neither bias nor discriminability. Two models of word identification are examined in light of the bias effects, and implications for understanding savings in amnesia are also examined. PMID- 2524544 TI - Word-fragment cuing: the lexical search hypothesis. AB - In four experiments we evaluated aspects of the hypothesis that word-fragment completion depends on the results of lexical but not semantic search. Experiment 1 showed that the number of meaningful associates linked to a studied word does not affect its recovery when the test cue consists of letters and spaces for missing letters. Experiments 2 and 3 showed retroactive interference effects in fragment completion when words in a second list were lexically related to words in a first list but not when the words in the second list were meaningfully related. Experiment 4 indicated that for studied words, instructions to search at the word level facilitated completion performance and that instructions to generate letters to fill missing spaces had no effect. Other findings indicated that completion was affected by the number of words lexically related to the fragment and by the number of letters missing from the fragment. In general, experimental manipulations that focused on lexical characteristics were effective, and those that focused on semantic characteristics were ineffective. The findings support the conclusion that word fragments engender a lexical search process that does not depend on retrieving encoded meaning. PMID- 2524545 TI - Facilitating text memory with additional processing opportunities in rapid sequential reading. AB - Previous research indicates that during conventional reading, readers pause at particular loci within a text, presumably for the purpose of higher level processing and integration. If such pausing is necessary for efficient text comprehension and memory, then providing readers with equivalent processing opportunities with strategically placed pauses in rapid sequential visual presentation (RSVP) text displays should facilitate comprehension and memory. Three experiments are reported in which various time parameters of RSVP displays are manipulated. The results indicate that memory for specific text is facilitated when additional processing time is provided. However, how and where the additional time is distributed within a text, over broad limits, is not important. We use a method of text memory assessment that is not typically used in RSVP research and that is more sensitive to text presentation manipulations than the commonly used multiple-choice questions. This fill-in-the-blank technique also provides evidence that memory representations for texts are structured as meaningful subsentence units. PMID- 2524546 TI - Perceptual organization and precategorical acoustic storage. AB - Current views of precategorical acoustic storage (PAS) have been largely based on differences in the level of recall of terminal list items as a function of input modality and on experiments in which various types of suffixes are added to unstructured auditory lists. Experiments with grouped lists reveal that PAS can make a far more extensive contribution to serial recall. A series of four experiments investigated grouping effects in relation to existing accounts of consolidation, attentional selection, and auditory masking in PAS. Grouping effects obtained with very brief intralist pauses were inconsistent with the consolidation and masking hypotheses. Contrary to the attentional hypothesis, nontemporal grouping by voice or by spatial location was found to be as effective as grouping by extended pauses. When nontemporal methods of grouping were combined with intralist pauses, the two sets of grouping cues were no better than one, suggesting that list segmentation by pauses and by item attributes must be explained in terms of a single process. These results are discussed in the context of previous research that implies the existence of an auditory store with a capacity greater than previously attributed to PAS. Existing data on modality and suffix effects are seen as specific instances of a more general relation between the structure of spoken sequences and their subsequent recall. PMID- 2524547 TI - Establishing global and local correspondence between successive stimuli: the holistic nature of backward alignment. AB - Reflection decisions on alphanumeric characters display systemic effects of disorientation, suggesting that subjects mentally rotate the stimulus to the upright (the uprighting process). However, response time also increases with increasing angular disparity between the current and preceding orientations. This occurs only when the current stimulus is brought into congruence with the preceding one (the backward alignment process). In the present study, we examined the hypothesis that the transformation that occurs in backward alignment in holistic even in tasks in which the uprighting process is likely to be piecemeal. Evidence supporting this hypothesis is presented on the basis of tasks requiring either classification of numbers (Experiments 1 and 3) and words (Experiment 2), or mirror image discrimination on letter pairs (Experiment 4). The results indicated that backward alignment establishes global correspondence between successive stimuli and is indifferent to local correspondence at the level of the constituent elements. The establishment of this global correspondence decreases with the number of elements in the stimulus (Experiment 5), but its effects are still observed for four-letter strings (Experiment 6). PMID- 2524548 TI - Effects of adult age and working memory on reasoning and spatial abilities. AB - Three predictions were derived from the hypothesis that adult age differences in certain measures of cognitive functioning are attributable to age-related reductions in a processing resource such as working-memory capacity. Each prediction received at least some degree of empirical support in a study involving 120 males ranging between 20 and 79 years of age. First, older adults exhibited greater impairments of performance than did young adults when task complexity increased and more demands were placed on the limited processing resources; second, the magnitudes of these complexity effects were highly correlated across verbal (reasoning) and spatial (paper folding) tasks. Finally, statistical control of an index of a working-memory processing resource attenuated the effects of age on the measures of cognitive performance. It was concluded that further progress in understanding the mechanisms of the relation between age and cognitive functioning will require improved conceptualizations of the nature of working memory or other hypothesized mediating constructs. PMID- 2524549 TI - Comparison of the immunogenicity of reduced doses of two recombinant DNA hepatitis B vaccines in New Zealand children. AB - A group of 201 hepatitis B virus (HBV) sero-negative children 1-12 years of age received either three 2 micrograms doses of Merck Sharp and Dohme (MSD) or Smith Kline and French (SKF) recombinant DNA (rDNA) hepatitis B vaccine I.M. at monthly intervals. Each recipient was tested 4-6 weeks later for antibody to hepatitis B surface antigen (anti-HBs) by enzyme immunoassay (EIA) and radioimmunoassay (RIA). Ninety-six 4-5-year-old children, given 2 micrograms doses of a plasma derived vaccine (MSD, H-B-Vax) I.M. at 0, 1, 2 months, were tested at the same time with the same assays for comparison. Anti-HBs responses and geometric mean titres (GMT) were significantly higher with the MSDrDNA vaccine (96% and 338.9 IU/liter) than with the SKF/r DNA vaccine (82.3% and 69.4 IU/liter). We conclude that for the protection of young children, 2 micrograms doses of the MSD rDNA hepatitis B vaccine may be used under similar circumstances in which 2 micrograms of the MSD plasma-derived vaccine was used. Further studies are needed before the other rDNA hepatitis B vaccine may be used in lower than the 10 micrograms dose recommended in children. PMID- 2524550 TI - Properties of a Leu-Phe-cleaving endopeptidase activity putatively involved in beta-endorphin metabolism in rat brain. AB - Incubation of beta-endorphin with cytosolic and particulate fractions of rat brain resulted in the formation of several peptides, including gamma-endorphin [beta-endorphin-(1-17)] and beta-endorphin-(18-31), indicating the presence of enzyme activity cleaving the Leu17-Phe18 bond of beta-endorphin. An assay for this Leu-Phe cleaving activity, based on the cleavage of the 14C-labeled substrate acetyl-Val-Thr-Leu-Phe-[epsilon-([14C]CH3)2]Lys-NHCH3, was used to examine the properties of this enzyme activity. beta-Endorphin-(1-31) competitively inhibited the Leu-Phe-cleaving enzyme activity on the pentapeptide substrate. Over 90% of activity was recovered in the cytosolic fraction. Leu-Phe cleaving activity behaved like a thiol endopeptidase because it was inhibited by low concentrations of N-ethylmaleimide, p-chloromercuribenzoate, p chloromercuribenzoyl sulfate, and low concentrations of Hg2+. Low concentrations of sulfhydryl compounds stimulated Leu-Phe-cleaving activity. The activity was optimal between pH 8.5 and 9.0. The Km of Leu-Phe-cleaving activity in the cytosolic fraction was 35 microM and in the particulate fraction 88 microM with Vmax values of 193 and 15 nmol mg protein-1 h-1, respectively. The apparent molecular mass of the Leu-Phe-cleaving enzyme was estimated by gel filtration to be approximately 200 kilodaltons. These properties of Leu-Phe-cleaving activity indicate that the Leu-Phe-cleaving enzyme is distinct from any known brain endopeptidase. PMID- 2524551 TI - Effect of a single dose of beta,beta'-iminodipropionitrile in vivo on the properties of neurofilaments in vitro: comparison with the effect of iminodipropionitrile added directly to neurofilaments in vitro. AB - The biochemical properties of neurofilaments isolated from control and iminodipropionitrile-treated rats were compared with regard to autophosphorylation capacity, hydrolysis of ATP, and the formation of a viscous gel between filaments. Both preparations exhibited a similar polypeptide composition, and no covalent cross-linking between neurofilament subunits was induced by iminodipropionitrile in vivo. An ATPase activity, systematically present in all preparations, was unaffected by the administration of iminodipropionitrile to the rats. Conversely, the autophosphorylation of neurofilament subunits in vitro was significantly higher in preparations from iminodipropionitrile-treated rats than from control animals, with a marked increase of the phosphorylation of a high molecular weight neurofilament associated protein. Iminodipropionitrile provoked a higher gelation capacity of neurofilaments as measured in vitro, with a lower critical concentration for the preparation from treated animals. A similar increased interaction was obtained with millimolar concentrations of iminodipropionitrile added to bovine neurofilaments in vitro, involving likely neurofilament-associated molecules, because the effect of the drug was lost after their extraction by 0.8 M KCl. These results support the hypothesis that iminodipropionitrile interferes with the neurofilament networks through a preferential interaction with the neurofilament-associated proteins, resulting in a change in their properties and consequently in an increased capacity of interaction between the polymers. PMID- 2524552 TI - Regulation of UDP-galactose:ceramide galactosyltransferase and UDP glucose:ceramide glucosyltransferase after crush and transection nerve injury. AB - The enzyme activities of ceramide galactosyltransferase and ceramide glucosyltransferase were assayed as a function of time (0, 1, 2, 4, 7, 14, 21, 28, and 35 days) after crush injury or permanent transection of the adult rat sciatic nerve. These experimental models of neuropathy are characterized by the presence and absence of axonal regeneration and subsequent myelin assembly. Within the first 4 days after both injuries, a 50% reduction of ceramide galactosyltransferase-specific activity was observed compared to values found in the normal adult nerve. This activity remained unchanged at 7 days after injury; however, by 14 days the ceramide galactosyltransferase activity diverged in the two models. The activity increased in the crushed nerve and reached control values by 21 days, whereas a further decrease was observed in the transected nerve such that the activity was nearly immeasurable by 35 days. In contrast, the ceramide glucosyltransferase activity showed a rapid increase between 1 and 4 days, followed by a plateau that was 3.4-fold greater than that in the normal adult nerve, which persisted throughout the observation period in both the crush and transection models. [3H]Galactose precursor incorporation studies at 7, 14, 21, and 35 days after injury confirmed the previously observed shift in biosynthesis from the galactocerebrosides during myelin assembly in the crush model to the glucocerebrosides and oligohexosylceramide homologues in the absence of myelin assembly in the transection model. The transected nerves were characterized by a peak of biosynthesis of the glucocerebrosides at 14 days. Of particular interest is the biosynthesis of the glucocerebrosides and the oligohexosylceramides at 7 and 14 days after crush injury.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2524553 TI - Studies on the mechanism of protection from acute viral encephalomyelitis by delayed-type hypersensitivity inducer T cell clones. AB - Previous studies have shown that mice can be protected from a lethal infection with the neurotropic JHM strain of mouse hepatitis virus (JHMV) by the adoptive transfer of delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH)-inducer T cell clones specific for the virus. Protection does not involve the suppression of virus replication in the central nervous system (CNS) or via augmentation of the antiviral antibody response. In the present report we have compared the CNS lesions induced by JHMV in lethally infected and T cell clone protected mice. The presence of virus specific T cell clones induced a transient increase in mononuclear cell infiltration into the parenchyma of the brains of protected mice, consistent with previous data suggesting that a DTH response was responsible for protection. Immunohistochemical studies suggested further that virus was not replicating in the ependyma or cellular infiltrate, but that the presence of the T cell clone prevented neuronal infection. While the mechanism of effectively altering the in vivo cellular tropism is unknown, survival is accompanied by increased specific destruction of target tissues with fulminant CNS demyelination and an increased incidence of persistent infection. PMID- 2524554 TI - Heparin and heparan sulfate partially inhibit induction of acetylcholine receptor accumulation by nerve in Xenopus culture. AB - It has been demonstrated that ACh receptors in Xenopus nerve-muscle cultures migrate in the membrane to the nerve contact area during junction formation (Anderson et al., 1977) and that "diffusion trapping" is the major mechanism for nerve-induced receptor accumulation (Kidokoro and Brass, 1985; Kuromi et al., 1985; Kidokoro et al., 1986). A crucial remaining question is how the nerve induces the trap for randomly diffusing ACh receptors. In this study we examined the effect of various glycosaminoglycans in the culture medium on the nerve induced receptor accumulation and found that heparin and heparan sulfate partially inhibited nerve-induced receptor accumulation, but similar molecules, chondroitin sulfate type A and type C, did not. By chemical modification of heparin we also showed that N-sulfate residues and a large-molecular-weight molecule are essential for this inhibitory effect. Heparin did not affect ACh receptor clustering (hot-spot formation) in myocytes cultured without nerve. By changing the time and duration of heparin application, we found that heparin was effective in inhibiting nerve-induced receptor accumulation only when it was present in the culture medium during the period that neurites are actively forming contact with muscle membrane. PMID- 2524555 TI - Balloon valvuloplasty and angioplasty in infants and children. PMID- 2524556 TI - Increased insulin secretion in puberty: a compensatory response to reductions in insulin sensitivity. AB - Recent studies have suggested that insulin action is reduced during puberty in normal children. To determine whether such resistance leads to excessive insulin secretion, we used the hyperglycemic clamp technique to produce a standard hyperglycemic stimulus (125 mg/dl above fasting levels for 120 minutes) in 9 preadolescent and 14 adolescent healthy children and in 14 normal adults. Fasting plasma insulin and C-peptide concentrations were higher in adolescents than in preadolescents and adults (p less than or equal to 0.02). Despite identical glucose increments during the glucose clamp procedure, both first- and second phase plasma insulin and C-peptide responses were also markedly greater in adolescents than in preadolescents or adults (p less than 0.01 vs. other groups). Despite sharply increased insulin responses in adolescents, the amount of exogenous glucose required to maintain hyperglycemia was similar in all three groups. Insulin responses in the children were directly correlated with fasting plasma levels of insulin-like growth factor I (r = 0.60 to 0.70, p less than 0.01). We conclude that glucose-stimulated insulin secretion is normally increased during puberty, a response that may compensate for puberty-induced defects in insulin sensitivity. PMID- 2524557 TI - Transfer of Eimeria nieschulzi using extraintestinal tissue. AB - The issue of extraintestinal infection by Eimeria nieschulzi in the rat was addressed by transferring various tissues from infected to uninfected rats by mouth. All 6 rats receiving liver, spleen, or small intestine from rats killed at 3 or 8 hr postinoculation (PI), and all 5 rats receiving spleen and small intestine from rats killed 8 days PI, showed infections. Rats receiving tissues from rats killed at 8 days PI showed infections 24 hr later, indicating that fourth-generation merozoites were transferred. This is the first demonstration of an extraintestinal rodent eimerian. PMID- 2524558 TI - Disability parameters, chronic strain, and adaptation of physically handicapped children and their mothers. AB - Investigated the contribution of disability parameters and chronic disability related strain to the adaptation of 50 congenitally physically handicapped 6- to 11-year-old children and their mothers. Multiple dimensions of adaptation, disability status, and chronic disability-related strain were assessed with a variety of procedures. The mothers reported their children and themselves to display significantly worse adaptation than expected for a general sample. The adaptation of these children and their mothers, however, was not significantly related to the children's disability status nor the chronic strain thereto related. An exception was that the children's social functioning could be significantly explained by both of these factors. The inability to explain most dimensions of adaptation in the children and their mothers as it relates to the conceptual model guiding this research is discussed. PMID- 2524559 TI - Physical status and psychosocial adjustment in children with spina bifida. AB - Investigated the relationship between the physical status and psychosocial adjustment of chronically physically handicapped children. The status of 61 children with spina bifida regarding six specific disease or disability parameters was determined from medical charts. Their mothers completed the Child Behavior Checklist as a measure of the children's psychosocial adjustment. Children with spina bifida were reported to display on the average significantly more behavior and social competence problems than expected for children in general. However, children with differing degrees of physical problems and disability did not differ significantly in their psychosocial adjustment. The general lack of relationship between physical status and adjustment as it relates to a conceptual model guiding this research is discussed. PMID- 2524560 TI - Cesarean section does not improve outcome in gastroschisis. AB - Elective cesarean section (CS) following prenatal diagnosis of gastroschisis has been advocated to decrease morbidity and mortality. To examine this hypothesis, we reviewed the records of 28 consecutive patients with gastroschisis treated between 1975 and 1987. Fourteen infants were delivered vaginally (V) and fourteen by CS, of which seven were elective, five were for fetal distress, and two were for breech presentation. Prenatal diagnosis was made in nine infants in the CS group and none in the vaginal group. The two groups were comparable in gestational age (V = 37.6 weeks, CS = 35.8 weeks, P = .05), birth weight (V = 2,508 g, CS = 2,444 g, P = NS), and five-minute Apgar score (V = 7.8, CS = 6.8, P = NS). Outcome was similar as measured by hospital mortality (V = 0/14, CS = 1/14, P = NS), complications (V = 4/14, CS = 5/14, P = NS), days to enteral feeding (V = 14, CS = 19, P = NS), and days in the hospital (V = 27, CS = 34, P = NS). The only complication related to mode of delivery was preventable; an infant delivered vaginally had avulsion of a short segment of mesentery requiring bowel resection. Infants born by CS were slightly more likely to have primary closure (5/14) than babies delivered vaginally (3/14, P = NS), but this may reflect independent trends in the last 5 years. Elective CS following prenatal diagnosis in seven patients did not improve outcome; primary closure was achieved in only one infant, and three had a complication. Since these data show no significant difference in morbidity and mortality between vaginal and CS delivery, we suggest that CS should not be recommended simply because a prenatal diagnosis of gastroschisis is made. PMID- 2524561 TI - The hidden morbidity of pediatric trauma. AB - In an attempt to characterize the emotional and behavioral consequences of severe multisystem injury on pediatric trauma patients and members of their immediate family, 54 former trauma patients and their families were studied at least 1 year after discharge. Of those in a home setting, 60% had residual personality changes. Physical and cognitive handicaps, often multiple, were present in 50%; and social, affective, and learning disabilities were present in like number. Only 20% of the 50 children are in a regular school class; the other 80% require special-needs education. An unexpected finding was the effect of the accident on uninjured siblings, 66% of whom were reported to have developed emotional disturbances, school problems and aggressive personality changes. Parents reported a worsening of their martial relationship in 32% of cases, and new social and financial problems in 60%. Twenty-one mothers who were previously employed have stopped working to care for their child and 20% of families have exhausted their savings or gone into debt. Although a variety of support services were available to these families, they reported little use of extended care facilities, visiting nurses, and counselors. There is a hidden morbidity in pediatric trauma. It manifests years after injury, not only as physical disability but also as changes in cognition, personality and behavior, and as family stress. Since success in pediatric trauma care is the restoration of the child as nearly as possible to his premorbid state, these data suggest that more attention and resources should be directed to the late consequences of multisystem injury in children. PMID- 2524562 TI - Systematic analysis of the immunoregulation of murine neuroblastoma. AB - If immunoregulation of cancer is to be effective, the tumor must express immunogenicity and the host immune mechanism must be capable of responding to that stimulus. Though neuroblastoma (NB) might be such a tumor, a systematic assessment of this complex host-tumor interaction is lacking. We report such an analysis using the murine NB system. C1300-NB is highly antigenic, locally growing, and nonmetastasizing, while its clonal counterpart, TBJ-NB, is minimally antigenic and demonstrates not only aggressive local growth but systemic metastases as well. We analyzed A/J mouse antitumor naturally occurring killer lymphocyte (NK cells), cytotoxic lymphocyte (CTL cells), and suppressor lymphocyte (SC cells) function in response to these tumor lines. NK and CTL activity was measured in 40 mice after 3 weeks of growth of either C1300-NB or TBJ-NB using a cold target inhibition test to either the YAC-1 or P815 mastocytoma cell line, respectively. SC activity was analyzed in an additional 24 mice treated with an SC destroying 15 mg/kg of cyclophosphamide (CYA) three days after tumor inoculation. After 4 weeks of tumor growth spleens were harvested, cell-mediated cytotoxicity was measured by chromium 51 release assay and tumor cell lysis was expressed as lytic unit 30 (LU-30), an arbitrary definition of the number of lymphocytes needed to lyse 30% of target cells. By increasing the concentration of the NK-sensitive YAC-1 cold target, there was a 56.8% inhibition of lymphocytotoxicity to C1300-NB, contrasting with this was the lack of inhibition (17.8%) by the non-NK sensitive P815 cell line.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2524563 TI - The association of low imperforate anus and Down's syndrome. AB - Down's syndrome is the most frequent chromosomal anomaly in humans and is associated with an incidence of anorectal anomalies many times greater than that found among the general population. The anorectal malformation associated with Down's syndrome uniformly consists of a low-lying rectal pouch without a genitourinary or perineal fistula. This type of imperforate anus may often be adequately treated by simple perineal anoplasty. Since our recognition of this association, several neonates have avoided temporary fecal diversion, and several older infants with colostomies have not required anticipated pull-through procedures. PMID- 2524564 TI - A case of mosaic Down's syndrome concomitant with ganglioneuroma. AB - We present the case of a 6-year-old boy with concomitant mosaic Down's syndrome and ganglioneuroma. To our knowledge, this is the first case report illustrating this association. PMID- 2524565 TI - Comparison of NK-cell (Leu-7+ and Leu-11b+) populations in clinically healthy gingiva, chronic gingivitis and chronic adult periodontitis. AB - Various investigations have reported the presence of cytotoxic lymphocyte activity in inflammatory periodontal disease. The collective evidence indicates that the inflammatory infiltrates of gingivitis and periodontitis should feature a major component of large granular lymphocytes (NK-cells) possessing cytotoxic potential. Thus, the purpose of this study was to determine and compare, by use of immunohistochemical methods, the numbers of NK-cells in biopsies of clinically healthy gingiva, chronic gingivitis and chronic adult periodontitis and their relationship, if any, to the T- and B-lymphocyte populations. Gingival biopsies were obtained from 8 patients in each of three disease groups selected on the basis of predetermined clinical criteria. Using the avidin-biotin immunoperoxidase technique, four consecutive serial sections from each biopsy specimen were stained with a panel of antihuman monoclonal antibodies for T lymphocytes (UCHL-1) B-lymphocytes (CD-45R), and NK-cells (Leu-7 and Leu-11b). Analyses of variance yielded a statistically significant main effect for each cell immunophenotype. The Newman-Keuls Sequential Range Test showed statistically significant differences for all but two mean comparisons (p less than 0.01). The comparisons for UCHL-1 and Leu-7 between chronic gingivitis and periodontitis specimens did not demonstrate significance. Although T- and B-lymphocyte populations increased approximately 20 x progressing from healthy to gingivitis to periodontitis specimens, the NK-cell population showed only a 3 x increase which represented 19%, 6.6% and 7% of the total of all positively stained lymphocytes across biopsy groups. PMID- 2524566 TI - Failure of Bacteroides gingivalis W83 to accumulate bound C3 following opsonization with serum. AB - Our previous studies have demonstrated that strains of Bacteroides gingivalis are capable of proteolytic degradation and inactivation of complement proteins including the third component of complement C3. Since a crucial step in the ability of complement to control bacterial infections is the binding of C3 fragments to the bacterial surface with subsequent enhancement of phagocytosis, further examination of the importance of the proteolytic capacity of Bacteroides in interactions with complement proteins was carried out by quantitating the amount of C3 bound to two proteolytic Bacteroides gingivalis strains. Pooled normal human serum (NHS) containing 125I-C3 was incubated with strains of B. gingivalis (W83 and ATCC 33277) and the non-proteolytic pathogen A. actinomycetemcomitans strain Y4, and samples of the reaction mixtures were removed at various time intervals for determination of bound C3. B. gingivalis 33277 bound only half the number of C3 molecules as did A. actinomycetemcomitans, while B. gingivalis W83 bound very little C3. A large increase in the number of C3 molecules bound to B. gingivalis W83 was noted in assays carried out in the presence of the protease inhibitor TLCK, indicating that bacterial proteases may be responsible for the lack of binding of C3 to strain W83. TLCK treatment modestly increased the accumulation of C3 on strain 33277, but had no effect on A. actinomycetemcomitans. Analysis of 125I-C3 in supernatants from reaction mixtures of strain 33277, W83, or a proteolytic strain of B. intermedius demonstrated no qualitative differences in the C3 fragments amongst the tested strains or in the presence or absence of TLCK.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2524568 TI - Tryptase-like activity in crevicular fluid from gingivitis and periodontitis patients. AB - Crevicular fluid was collected from gingivitis and periodontitis patients on filter paper strips and then eluted into buffer. The eluates hydrolyzed ZAlaArgArgAFC at alkaline pH and the effector response at pH 8.5 indicated serine proteinase activity. The results, particularly the substantial increase in activity produced by heparin, were suggestive of mast cell tryptase. They were also consistent with the properties of the tryptase-like enzyme identified in extracts of inflamed human gingiva (Cox and Eley, Arch Oral Biol, in press). Partial inhibition of crevicular fluid eluate activity by soybean trypsin inhibitor suggested the additional presence of a second trypsin-like enzyme which might be of host or bacterial origin. PMID- 2524567 TI - Hertwig's epithelial root sheath differentiation and initial cementum and bone formation during long-term organ culture of mouse mandibular first molars using serumless, chemically-defined medium. AB - Studies were designed to test the hypothesis that Hertwig's epithelial root sheath (HERS) synthesizes and secretes enamel-related proteins that participate in the process of acellular cementum formation. Our experimental strategy was to examine sequential root development of the mouse mandibular first molar in vivo and in long-term organ culture in vitro using serumless, chemically-defined medium. Using anti-amelogenin, anti-enamelin and anti-peptide antibodies, enamel related antigens were localized within intermediate cementum during HERS differentiation and root formation in vivo. Cap stage molars maintained for periods of up to 31 days in organ culture expressed morphogenesis and cytodifferentiation as identified by tooth crown and initial root, cementum and bone formation. Metabolically-labeled HERS products were analyzed by immunodetection using enamel-related antibodies and one- and two-dimensional SDS gel electrophoresis. A 72 kDa and 26 kDa polypeptide were identified in forming mouse cementum. Both of these root putative cementum proteins yield similar (identical) amino acid compositions; however, both proteins differed from the compositions of either mouse crown enamelin or amelogenin proteins. This approach provides a new and novel in vitro model towards understanding HERS differentiation and functions related to root and bone formation. The data support the hypothesis that HERS cells synthesize polypeptides related to but also different from canonical crown enamel proteins. PMID- 2524569 TI - The relationship between connective tissue and its microvasculature in the healthy dog gingiva. AB - The morphological consistency of subepithelial connective tissue and its vascular architecture was studied in the healthy gingiva of adult mongrel dogs. Corrosion cast specimens of the vasculature and specimens of well-separated connective tissue from the lamina propria were observed by SEM. Specimens injected with india ink also were examined employing light microscopy. Summarizing the results: 1) Beneath the buccal gingival epithelium, short conical papillae were seen in the subepithelial connective tissue. The capillary structure throughout this region was basically of the loop type, the overall appearance of which replicated the papillae. The papilla disappeared at the muco-gingival junction, so that after the transition to the alveolar mucosa, no papillary formation was observed. The vasculature had transformed from loop to network structure. 2) Beneath the sulcular gingival epithelium, the subepithelial connective tissue displayed a smooth concavity with no papillae. In this region, the capillaries formed a flat, dense network in accordance with the morphology of the connective tissue. The capillary network suddenly disappeared at the terminal edge of the inner epithelium. The vessels of the lamina propria located immediately beneath the network reduced their lumina at the margin and formed the plexus of the periodontium, displaying a rather open network. PMID- 2524570 TI - The effects of beam hardening on digital subtraction radiography. AB - Quantitative assessment of osseous changes attributable to periodontal disease is made possible by digital subtraction radiography. Tissues through which x rays travel to produce dental radiographs essential to this process alter the energy spectrum of the beam such that calibration errors result when densitometry is attempted using a homogeneous calibration standard such as a step wedge. The following controlled in vitro investigation evaluates the extent of such errors caused by these spectral differences, called beam hardening. Simulated osseous lesions of known size were computed densitometrically using selectively filtered radiation to produce the x-ray images. The resulting data confirm the theory and demonstrate with statistically meaningful accuracy that beam hardening can contribute a significant component of variance to absolute estimates of lesion size. They also suggest that other errors (probably attributable to low contrast) may be even more important at high peak kilovoltages. PMID- 2524571 TI - Reduction of dental plaque formation by chlorhexidine dihydrochloride lozenges. AB - The effect of chlorhexidine dihydrochloride (chlorhex HCl) in lozenges on plaque growth was assessed on 21 subjects with fresh plaque of 7 days duration. The lozenges, which contained 5 mg chlorhex HCl, were sucked three times daily after meals, for 2 weeks. The study was a single-blind crossover. Placebo lozenges had all the ingredients except chlorhex HCl. These were used as a control. Results indicated that lozenges containing chlorhex HCl were a potent plaque inhibitor. The mean plaque score was reduced by 62.8% from an initial mean plaque score (DO) of 2.38 +/- 0.48 to (D7) 0.89 +/- 0.26 (p less than 0.0001), after 1 wk of usage. A further reduction to plaque score (D14) of 0.56 +/- 0.27 (p less than 0.0001) was recorded by the end of the 2nd wk. Usage of the placebo during the same time period did not show significant differences in the plaque score (DO = 2.38; D7 = 2.33; D14 = 2.42). Inhibition of plaque formation to the 1104 test surfaces revealed a total elimination of the higher levels of plaque (scores 4 and 5), a considerable reduction of the middle levels (scores 2 and 3) and a significant increase (44.7%) of low level plaque (score 1). Total elimination of plaque (score 0) was observed in 50.3% of the test group surfaces. Lozenges containing 5 mg chlorhexidine dihydrochloride, taken three times daily, were an efficient, comfortable and potent agent for reducing and inhibiting plaque formation. These lozenges are a more convenient alternative to chlorhexidine mouthrinses and may prove to be superior to these. PMID- 2524573 TI - The effect of a dentifrice containing zinc citrate and Triclosan on developing gingivitis. AB - A partial mouth experimental gingivitis model was employed to establish the potential efficacy of a dentifrice containing a zinc salt and the antimicrobial agent Triclosan to prevent or delay the development of gingivitis over a period of 28 days. Initially, gingival health was established in 34 subjects following a 6-week period of professional tooth cleaning and oral hygiene instruction. A toothshield was constructed to fit 4 posterior mandibular teeth. Undiluted test or placebo dentifrice was applied to the experimental teeth via the toothshield, which also prevented plaque removal from these teeth during habitual brushing of the remainder of the dentition. The presence of plaque, bleeding after probing and visual signs of inflammation were independently assessed. Plaque accumulated rapidly and gingivitis developed in both groups. At the 2-wk assessments, lower mean plaque scores were recorded for the group using the test dentifrice. At the 4-wk assessment a significantly lower level of gingivitis was recorded for the test group. It is concluded that (a) the model can be used to establish the potential efficacy of a dentifrice to maintain gingival health, (b) the dentifrice containing zinc citrate and Triclosan was efficacious and (c) the Gingival Index possibly overestimates the proportion of healthy gingival sites. PMID- 2524572 TI - Changes in cyclooxygenase metabolites in experimental periodontitis in Macaca mulatta. AB - The four principal metabolites of cyclooxygenase (CO) were examined during the progression of experimental periodontitis in the rhesus monkey Macaca mulatta. Thirty-two monkeys were divided in four disease-matched groups. Three groups were treated with flurbiprofen, a potent CO inhibitor, at either 0.027, 0.27 or 7.1 mg/kg/day delivered systemically by a subcutaneously-implanted osmotic mini-pump. We have previously described the findings indicating that flurbiprofen treatment significantly retarded clinical attachment loss (ALOSS), redness and radiographic bone loss (BLOSS). This investigation focuses on the changes in CO metabolites which occur during disease progression of ligature-induced periodontitis and on the dose-response relationship of flurbiprofen, as it relates to disease inhibition and the suppression of ARA metabolites within the crevicular fluid (CF). In untreated animals there was a statistically significant 3-fold increase in CF levels of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and thromboxane B2 (TxB2) at 3 months, as compared to baseline, which positively correlated with increases in redness, bleeding, ALOSS and BLOSS. CF-PGE2 and TxB2 levels reached a 6-fold peak at 6 months and returned to baseline by 12 months. Flurbiprofen (Fb) prevented the 3 month rise in TxB2, but did not affect the increase in PGE2. At 6 months, Fb administration caused a dose-dependent inhibition of both PGE2 and TxB2. Probit analysis of the dose-response data revealed that the concentration of Fb which caused a 50% inhibition of CF-TxB2 level (the IC50 value for TxB2 synthesis) was approximately two logs lower than the IC50 value for PGE2 synthesis, i.e. TxA2 IC50 = 0.013 vs. PGE2-IC50 = 1.35 mg flurbiprofen/kg/d. The slopes of the PGE2 and TxB2 inhibition curves were identical, consistent with a similar mechanism or singular enzyme for the site of action of Fb inhibition of CO activity. However, the kinetics and sensitivity of Fb inhibition were significantly different for the CO activity responsible for TxB2 and PGE2 synthesis, perhaps due to different compartmentalization of CO within different cell types. PMID- 2524574 TI - Effect of x-ray beam vertical angulation on radiographic alveolar crest level measurement. AB - Utilizing intraoral radiographs of human skulls taken at known vertical angulation, we have demonstrated that expression of the crest level as a distance between cej and the crest is as accurate as a ratio of bone height to root length. The degree of inaccuracy of either of these measures is related to the magnitude of the angular deviation of the x-ray beam from 90 degrees. Angular deviation can be estimated from calculation of a cusp height score (ratio of lingual cusp height to buccal cusp height x 100). Based on the analysis of cusp height scores it was determined that the x-ray beam angulation for posterior bitewings ranged between 90 degrees and 80 degrees whereas for posterior periapicals the angulation range was between 90 degrees and 70 degrees. Therefore, it is recommended that, for longitudinal studies of bone height, measurements of the crest to cej distance, particularly in the region of the molars, be made utilizing bitewing radiographs. For the premolar and incisor regions, deviation of the vertical angulation of an x-ray of up to 20 degrees from a 90 degrees baseline resulted in little, if any, change in crest level by either one of the two measures used. An appendix is provided for the theoretical modeling of the types and magnitude of change in crest level observed for projection images of different anatomical configurations. PMID- 2524575 TI - Phenotypic dynamics of macrophage subpopulations during human experimental gingivitis. AB - The purpose of the present study was to investigate whether functionally different macrophages are present in clinically healthy gingiva and during human experimental gingivitis. Eight male probands were introduced to an oral hygiene program until all reached mean Plaque and Gingival Index scores approaching zero. During the following 19 days all oral hygiene was abandoned. At d -14, 0, 2, 4, 7, 11 and 19 clinical indices and gingival biopsies were taken. Cryostat sections were incubated with monoclonal antibodies against mature macrophages (25F9), inflammatory macrophages (27E10) and anti-inflammatory macrophages (RM 3/1). Positive cells were counted in the inflammatory infiltrate (IF) and the connective tissue (CT). At d -14 elevated numbers of 27E10-positive cells were observed which decreased significantly at d 0 (p less than 0.018) and increased again at d 19 (p less than 0.026). Significant differences in the number of RM 3/1-positive cells were found between d 0 and d -14, 2, 4 and 7 (p less than 0.05) while no differences in the number of 25F9-positive cells were observed throughout this study. It was concluded that experimental gingival inflammation is characterized by the appearance and disappearance of functionally different macrophage subpopulations. PMID- 2524576 TI - Prevalence of Bacteroides forsythus and Bacteroides gingivalis in subgingival plaque of prosthodontically treated patients on short recall. AB - The prevalence of Bacteroides forsythus and Bacteroides gingivalis in subgingival plaque of patients on short recall was analyzed in relation to the probing depth of the test sites. The subjects had excellent oral hygiene and therefore were unlikely to suffer from active periodontal destruction. Sixty-four subgingival plaque samples, taken from gingival or periodontal pockets with probing depths ranging from 1 to 8 mm, were quantitatively assessed for the presence of the two species using species-specific monoclonal antibodies in conjunction with a very sensitive indirect immunofluorescence technique. Both organisms were encountered in probes from sites as shallow as 2 mm, but the percentage of positive samples clearly rose in relation to the probing depth of the test sites. Overall, B. forsythus was found to colonize lesions earlier, that is at smaller probing depths, than B. gingivalis. Interestingly, whenever a sample was found to be positive for B. gingivalis it was also positive for B. forsythus. The numbers of B. forsythus and B. gingivalis and the total bacterial cell number found in the pockets were significantly correlated to the probing depth. However, with advancing probing depth the increase of the total cell numbers of the two Bacteroides species was considerably more pronounced than the increase of the total subgingival plaque cell number. The recall interval neither affected the frequency of sites positive for B. forsythus or B. gingivalis nor influenced significantly the proportions of the two species in subgingival plaque.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2524578 TI - Langerhans cells in oral epithelium of chronically inflamed human gingivae. AB - This study describes the histopathological features and the distribution of oral epithelial Langerhans cells in 19 gingival biopsies originating from an adult Tanzanian population characterized by very poor oral hygiene and severe gingival inflammation. Light-microscopically, all biopsies contained often large inflammatory connective tissue infiltrates, 6 of which predominantly contained plasma cells while the rest were dominated by lymphocytes. Seven specimens contained peculiar accumulations of round lymphoid and dendritic cells in the lower cell layers of the oral epithelium. These phenomena have not previously been demonstrated in human gingiva and deserve further attention in studies on the pathogenesis of periodontal diseases. Immuno-histochemical staining with OKT6, OKT4 and OKT8 antibodies showed markedly increased numbers of OKT6-positive cells in 7 specimens and clusters of OKT4- and OKT8-positive cells in the oral epithelium of 4 specimens. High numbers of OKT6-positive cells were not related to the presence of intra-epithelial, non-keratinocyte infiltrates or large connective tissue infiltrates. The variable numbers of oral epithelial Langerhans cells may therefore result from different bacterial antigens elucidating different responses or, alternatively, reflect different responses to similar plaque antigens penetrating the surface of the oral epithelium. PMID- 2524577 TI - T cells and T-cell subsets in periodontal diseases. AB - Acetone-fixed cryostat gingival tissue sections from marginal gingivitis (MG), juvenile periodontitis (JP), adult periodontitis (AP) patients and clinically healthy subjects (H) were immunohistochemically stained with monoclonal antibodies to aid in identification and quantification of T cells and T-cell subsets in the inflammatory infiltrates. T cells were present in all specimens studied. The number of T cells in the connective tissue (CT) zone of AP was much greater than in any other groups. The amounts of T cells in oral epithelium and sulcular (pocket) epithelium zones of diseased groups were larger than in the healthy group. There was a significant positive correlation between the number of T cells and the percentage of infiltrated connective tissue. While there were no significant differences between the mean ratios of T-helper/T-suppressor cells from diseased and healthy tissues, large individual variance existed in the three diseased groups. The existence of a high or low T4/T8 ratio in inflamed gingiva might be related to an abnormal immunoregulation. PMID- 2524579 TI - The chemoattractive potency of periodontal ligament, cementum and dentin for human gingival fibroblasts. PMID- 2524580 TI - Altered free cytosolic calcium changes and neutrophil chemotaxis in patients with juvenile periodontitis. AB - Nearly 70-75% of patients with localized juvenile periodontitis (JP) have abnormal polymorphonuclear leukocytic (PMN) chemotaxis. The objective of this study was to determine whether the lower chemotactic response in PMNs from JP patients is associated with a defect in intracellular signal transduction, as measured by stimulus-induced changes in free cytosolic calcium (Ca2+) mobilization. We report that peptide chemoattractants such as N-formyl-methionyl leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP) and the complement fragment C5a in direct comparative studies induced lower amounts of initial Ca2+ mobilization in PMNs from JP patients than healthy controls, as monitored by intracellular fura-2 fluorescence. The initial resting levels of free cytosolic Ca2+ in PMNs from JP patients and normal individuals were found to be similar. fMLP and C5a both mobilized Ca2+ in PMNs in a dose-dependent manner. Treatment of PMNs from 0.16 to 20 nM fMLP and 0.2 to 20 nM C5a resulted in elevated levels of free cytosolic Ca2+. However, above 20 nM fMLP and 5 nM C5a concentrations the extent of total Ca2+ mobilization did not differ significantly. Although fMLP and C5a caused Ca2+ mobilization in PMN cells from JP and healthy control subjects, fMLP stimulation induced higher levels of free cytosolic Ca2+ mobilization in PMN cells from healthy control subjects (141.29 +/- 25.55 nM/2 x 10(6) PMNs), than PMNs from JP patients (62.33 +/- 23.76 nM/2 x 10(6) PMNs). Similarly C5a induced higher levels of Ca2+ mobilization in PMNs from healthy control individuals (130.43 +/- 18.26 nM Ca2+/2 x 10(6) PMNs)O, when compared to JP patients (49.92 +/- 14.92 nM Ca2+/2 x 10(6) PMNs).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2524581 TI - Bactericidal concentrations of chlorhexidine-digluconate, amine fluoride gel and stannous fluoride gel for subgingival bacteria tested in serum at short contact times. AB - In vitro inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations in serum of chlorhexidine digluconate, amine fluoride gel, stannous fluoride gel, stannous fluoride, metronidazole and amoxicillin were determined against Bacteroides gingivalis, Bacteroides intermedius, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans and Capnocytophaga sputigena. The minimal inhibitory concentration was assessed by the agar dilution technique. The killing curves and minimal bactericidal concentration of the antimicrobial agents in inactivated bovine serum were determined after 5, 10, 20 and 60 minutes contact time. The minimal inhibitory concentration varied amongst the tested bacteria. A concentration of 128 micrograms/ml chlorhexidine digluconate, 20 mg/ml amine fluoride gel, 1 mg/ml stannous fluoride, 128 micrograms/ml metronidazole and 4 micrograms/ml amoxicillin inhibited the growth of the tested species. The minimal bactericidal concentration in serum for B. gingivalis, B. intermedius, F. nucleatum, A. actinomycetemcomitans and C. sputigena after 10 min contact time was 5 mg/ml for chlorhexidine digluconate and 100 mg/ml for amine fluoride gel. A concentration of 200 mg/ml stannous fluoride gel in serum was bactericidal for the tested species after 10 min contact time, with exception of F. nucleatum. PMID- 2524582 TI - LPS-elicited secretory responses in monocytes: altered release of PGE2 but not IL 1 beta in patients with adult periodontitis. AB - Lipopolysaccharide responsiveness in human subjects was assessed through the examination of LPS-stimulated PGE2 and IL-1 beta release from counterflow isolated monocytes from patients with varying levels of periodontal destruction. This study was performed in order to investigate a possible relationship between LPS-mediated secretory responses in monocytes and susceptibility to periodontal destruction in humans. Subjects were chosen based on apparent resistance or susceptibility to disease as measured by little or no periodontal destruction versus generalized severe destruction, respectively. Because IFN-gamma can influence LPS-stimulated responses, the effect of IFN-gamma on the LPS-stimulated release of PGE2 and IL-1 beta was also assessed. Peripheral blood monocytes were separated by counterflow centrifugation and cultured (10(6)/ml/well) with control medium or medium containing LPS from Bacteroides gingivalis, B. intermedius, Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, or Salmonella typhimurium, with or without 10 Units/ml recombinant IFN-gamma. Media were exchanged at 24 and 48 hours and culture supernatants assayed for both PGE2 and IL-1 beta by RIA. Patients classified as Susceptible to periodontitis demonstrated 2- to 3-fold greater PGE2 release than Resistant patients. This difference was observed with all LPS preparations over both the 0-24 hour and 24-48 h culture periods. IL-1 beta release, however, was not significantly different between patient groups. IFN gamma did not affect the LPS-stimulated release of PGE2 but significantly enhanced the release of IL-1 beta. The IFN-gamma effects were similar for both patient groups. These findings indicate that LPS-stimulated PGE2 release from peripheral blood monocytes may correlate with susceptibility to periodontitis in human subjects. PMID- 2524583 TI - Predictors of outcome in AIDS patients receiving zidovudine. AB - Fifty-eight AIDS patients who previously had Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP) were enrolled in an open trial of zidovudine therapy. We analyzed baseline clinical and laboratory parameters to identify predictors of outcome. Fifty-eight patients were followed for a mean of 26.5 weeks. There were 17 deaths; the probability of survival at 24 weeks was 0.81. Forty-one participants had unsuccessful outcomes, which included new opportunistic infections (24), progressive neurologic deterioration (2), and drug toxicity, excluding anemia, necessitating discontinuation of zidovudine (15). Only 24 subjects (41%) were receiving zidovudine at the end of the study period including 17 who had neither opportunistic infection nor toxicity. Low baseline hemoglobin level (p less than 0.001) and poor performance status as measured by the Karnofsky scale (p less than 0.01) independently predicted unsuccessful outcome and early death. Low hemoglobin (p = 0.001), low platelet count (p = 0.016), and increased time since PCP (p = 0.008) predicted development of drug toxicity. Neither CD4 lymphocyte count nor p24 antigenemia correlated with outcome. PMID- 2524584 TI - HIV and hemophilic children's growth. AB - The acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) often has profound effects on growth; however, the effects of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) on asymptomatic children's growth are unknown. Before heat inactivation/HIV donor screening of factor concentrates, many hemophilic children became infected with HIV. We evaluated four hemophilic groups without AIDS, using age-standardized growth parameters: group 1, 41 HIV-seropositive children (median age of 13 years); group 2, 11 HIV-seronegative children (median age of 4 years); group 3, 20 children frequently receiving concentrates, evaluated before 1979 (median age of 9 years); and group 4, 11 children rarely receiving concentrates, evaluated before 1979 (median age of 6 years). Median height for age (HA), weight for age (WA), and weight for height (WH) of groups 1 and 2 exceeded the 50th percentile of referent norms. HA, WA, WH, and weight/height did not vary significantly by group, nor did these decline over periods of 11 to 70 months. However, for those less than 11 years of age in group 1, HA declined by 25 percentile points over at least a 3 year period. Also, group 1's T helper-to-suppressor cell ratios at 12 +/- 3 months following the latest growth evaluation were positively associated with both HA and WA at the last evaluation. Eight children were evaluated before 1979 and again after they seroconverted to HIV.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2524585 TI - Cyclooxygenase inhibition unmasks the full antidiuretic agonist activity of the vasopressin antagonist, SK&F 101926, in dogs. AB - The vasopressin (AVP) antagonist, SK&F 101926 (beta-mercapto-beta beta cyclopentamethylene propionic acid1, D-Tyr(Et)2, Phe3, Val4, Asn5, Cys6, Pro7, Arg8-NH2), is an antidiuretic antagonist in rats and squirrel monkeys in vivo. In rat, dog, pig, squirrel monkey and human in vitro studies, SK&F 101926 is an AVP antagonist with no discernable agonist activity. Not predicted by these studies was the discovery that SK&F 101926 is an antidiuretic agonist in humans. The purpose of these studies was to show that indomethacin, which potentiates the antidiuretic activity of AVP in hydrated dogs, also potentiates the antidiuretic agonist activity of SK&F 101926, and to determine what structural modifications of this AVP antagonist would confer diminished agonist activity. Treatment of dogs with i.v. indomethacin (2 mg/kg bolus + 3 mg/kg/hr infusion, a dose which inhibited 80-90% of the urinary prostaglandin E2 excretion) unmasked the full antidiuretic activity of SK&F 101926. SK&F 104146 (Arg7-D-Arg8-NH2 peptide tail modification of SK&F 101926) in the presence of indomethacin caused a partial antidiuretic response. Replacement of the 1 to 6 disulfide bridge of SK&F 104146 with methylene groups to form a "dicarba bridge" resulted in SK&F 105494, a compound lacking antidiuretic agonist activity. Using the indomethacin-treated dog model, we have unmasked the full antidiuretic agonist activity of SK&F 101926 in nonhumans. In addition, both SK&F 104146 and 105494 blocked the antidiuretic agonist activity of SK&F 101926, suggesting that the agonist effect seen in the presence of indomethacin treatment is receptor mediated. PMID- 2524586 TI - In vivo metabolism of atrial natriuretic peptide: identification of plasma metabolites and enzymes responsible for their generation. AB - The in vivo metabolism of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) has been studied in the rat after i.v. administration of either [106Phe-14C]- or [126Tyr-125I] ANP(103-126). Plasma samples containing radioactive peptides were separated by reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. The major plasma metabolites were [125I]Tyr and [14C]Phe for the iodinated and 14C-labeled peptides, respectively. Both peptides had ANP(104/5-126) as a metabolite. Administration of labeled peptide by either bolus or infusion produced the same metabolite profile. To determine which enzymes were responsible for generating these initial metabolites, animals were first dosed with various protease inhibitors before the infusion of [14C]ANP(103-126). The amino-peptidase inhibitor bestatin and the angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor captopril caused 54 and 66% increases in plasma ANP(103-126), respectively, but no other effects. Administration of the endopeptidase 24.11 inhibitor thiorphan led to a 158% increase of ANP(103-126) in plasma and an 11-fold increase in ANP(104/5 126). The latter metabolite could be selectively decreased by pretreatment with bestatin in combination with thiorphan. The results demonstrate that the initial plasma metabolites of ANP(103-126) are due to the activity of endopeptidase 24.11, a bestatin-sensitive aminopeptidase, and a carboxypeptidase. The plasma clearance of the peptide is probably also due to cellular binding and uptake in combination with glomerular filtration as very few plasma metabolites were observed even at very high rates of ANP(103-126) infusion. PMID- 2524587 TI - Arginine8-vasopressin reduces spinal cord blood flow after spinal subarachnoid injection in rats. AB - Arginine8-vasopressin (AVP) causes hindlimb paralysis, loss of nociceptive responsiveness and increased arterial pressure after spinal subarachnoid injection in rats. In these experiments, the effects of paralytic intrathecal doses of AVP on rat brain and spinal cord blood flow, vascular resistance and cardiac output were measured using radiolabeled microspheres. Ten minutes after injection, AVP (10-100 pmol) elevated mean arterial pressures significantly, increased vascular resistances in thoracic and lumbosacral spinal cord and reduced blood flow to the lumbosacral spinal cord without altering cardiac output, total peripheral resistance and blood flow to brain and other spinal cord regions. Lumbosacral blood flows remained significantly reduced 30 min after injection of 100 pmol of AVP, and recovered to pretreatment base-line levels by 60 min postinjection. Lactic acid concentrations were elevated significantly in spinal cerebrospinal fluid samples removed 5 to 15 min after AVP injection (100 pmol). The selective AVP V1 receptor antagonist [1-(beta-mercapto-beta,beta cyclopentamethylene propionic acid), 2-(O-methyl)tyrosine] arg8-vasopressin, which previously blocked the effects of AVP on hindlimb motor and nociceptive function, in these experiments also blocked the AVP-induced increases in arterial pressure and reductions in lumbosacral perfusion. Intravenous infusion of the vasodilators papaverine and nifedipine failed to block AVP-induced hindlimb paralysis. Nifedipine, however, did accelerate subsequent recovery of hindlimb motor function, although it did not alter the lumbosacral blood flow reductions measured at 10 and 30 min after AVP injection. These findings indicate that AVP has significant vascular effects in the rat spinal cord that are associated with ischemia and neurological dysfunction.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2524588 TI - Activation of heart sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca++-stimulated adenosine triphosphatase by insulin. AB - Although insulin is known to elicit a positive inotropic effect in cardiac muscle preparations, very little is known concerning the mechanism of this action. In view of the crucial role played by the sarcoplasmic reticular (SR) calcium transport in cardiac contractile events, the effects of insulin on the pig heart SR were investigated. Insulin activated the SR Ca++-stimulated adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) in a concentration-dependent manner (0.1 mU to 1 U/ml); maximal activation (125%) was seen at 0.1 to 1 U/ml of insulin. Kinetic studies revealed that the insulin-induced activation was due to an increase in the apparent Vmax of Ca++-stimulated ATPase without any alteration in the Km. Insulin was found to bind with SR membranes in a specific manner and this binding was rapid, saturable and displacable. The dose-related increase in the activation of Ca++-stimulated ATPase was related linearly (r = 0.98) to binding of insulin with SR membranes; 50% activation of Ca++-stimulated ATPase was found to occur at 13.5 fmol of insulin binding per mg of SR protein. When insulin was allowed to dissociate by a 100-fold dilution of the insulin-receptor complex, the activity of SR Ca++-stimulated ATPase also declined gradually. Furthermore, proteolytic digestion on the membrane with trypsin (3 micrograms/mg of protein) decreased both insulin binding as well as the increase in Ca++-stimulated ATPase activity by about 50%.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2524589 TI - Postmenopausal endometriosis associated with hormone replacement therapy. A case report. AB - A postmenopausal woman on hormone replacement therapy presented with abdominal pain, a large pelvic mass and high-grade ureteral obstruction, with endometriosis found at exploration. PMID- 2524590 TI - Autocytotoxic cells in rheumatoid synovial fluids. AB - The possibility that patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) might have autocytotoxic activity in the joints was investigated using a 51Cr release assay. Peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) and synovial fluid (SF) lymphocytes from 9 patients with active RA were tested for cytotoxic activity against autologous PBL stimulated with pokeweed mitogen (PWM). In 5 of 9 patients, lymphocytes isolated from the SF showed cytotoxic activity against autologous PWM-blasts, whereas none of PBL showed autocytotoxic activity. Unstimulated PBL were resistant to lysis by SF cytotoxic cells. The autocytotoxic cells in RA SF may have relevance to immunoregulatory activity in the diseased area. PMID- 2524591 TI - Sympathoadrenal responses during bradycardia-hypotension associated with combined infusion of atrial natriuretic factor and prostaglandin E2. AB - The adrenergic response to an episode of bradycardia and hypotension associated with atrial natriuretic factor and prostaglandin infusion in a healthy male subject is described. Noradrenaline levels did not change despite a profound fall in blood pressure. In contrast, there was an almost thirty-fold increase in adrenaline levels. This dissociated sympathoadrenal response suggests activation of the Bezold-Jarisch reflex. PMID- 2524592 TI - 2-Haloaporphines as potent dopamine agonists. AB - The synthesis of 2-amino- and 2-halo-substituted aporphines is described. The key step is the substitution of a hydroxy group in the 2-position with an amino group effected by a Smiles rearrangement reaction of the 2-methylpropanamide derivative 6. The affinity of the new compounds for the dopamine D-2 receptor in the anterior pituitary gland was evaluated. 2-Fluoroapomorphine was the most potent compound, being 1.5 times more potent than (-)-apomorphine. The structure activity relationships are discussed in relation to a previously proposed receptor model. PMID- 2524593 TI - Synthesis and tumor uptake of 5-82Br- and 5-131I-labeled 5-halo-1-(2-fluoro-2 deoxy-beta-D-ribofuranosyl)uracils. AB - A synthesis of 5-bromo- and 5-iodo-1-(2-fluoro-2-deoxy-beta-D ribofuranosyl)uracil (3 and 4) and their 5-82Br and 5-131I analogues has been developed. The tissue distribution of the radiolabeled compounds in BDF1 mice bearing Lewis lung tumors has been investigated. After injection of the radiolabeled analogues of compounds 3 and 4 there was a rapid initial excretion of activity. Compound 3 was excreted unchanged in the urine. Residual activity in mice after 4 h showed a distribution characteristic of bromide (Br-). Compound 4 was excreted mainly as unchanged starting material with increasing amounts of iodide (I-) detected at later time periods, in addition to 5-iodouridine and unidentified metabolites at shorter time periods. Both 3 and 4 demonstrated a remarkable in vivo stability relative to related 5-substituted nucleosides that do not contain the 2'-fluoro group. The tumor uptake was minimal, with only the 5 bromo analogue demonstrating a slight elevation in tumor to blood ratios relative to other tissues. Compounds 3 and 4 were shown to compete with thymidine for the same binding site in the transport of nucleosides across the cell membrane in mouse erythrocytes. The inhibition constants (Ki) show that the compounds were weak competitors of thymidine binding to pyrimidine nucleoside transporter compared to physiological nucleosides. Other evidence indicates that compounds 3 and 4 are not substrates for mammalian kinase enzymes. PMID- 2524594 TI - Attention disorder in a group of young Down's syndrome children. AB - Thirteen of the 14 Down's syndrome children in Oxfordshire aged 2-4 years were studied. Quantified attention deficit was recorded for four children in a standardized test situation. This deficit did not correlate with mental age or with social or medical attributes. Temperamental traits did not identify the attention disordered children as 'difficult'. Parental ratings of behaviour revealed a preponderance of conduct-type disorder and problems of parental control among them. There was a precise inverse relationship between a child's ability to engage and maintain attention and measured examiner activity in the test situation. The implications of this for the interactive consequences of this type of attention disorder are discussed. PMID- 2524595 TI - Plasma amino acids in patients with senile dementia and in subjects with Down's syndrome at an age vulnerable to Alzheimer changes. AB - Plasma concentration of tryptophan, tyrosine, leucine and thiamine were reduced in senile dementia of Alzheimer type. In Down's syndrome, where Alzheimer-type histology appears consistently at an early age, there was a definite type of abnormality, raised concentrations of isoleucine, leucine, phenylalanine and cystine. Because of the competition between amino acids for transfer into the brain, either or both of these types of change could lie in the aetiological chain underlying the development of Alzheimer pathology. Alternatively, these patterns could reflect the requirements of aberrant central/peripheral protein turnover. PMID- 2524596 TI - Physical aptitudes to exertion in children with Down's syndrome. AB - The individual with Down's syndrome is characterized by apathy towards physical exercise. Ten untrained subjects with Down's syndrome and a control group have been tested at rest and after exercise on a bicycle ergometer. In subjects with Down's syndrome, the authors have observed: (a) a lower orthostatic index at rest; (b) a lower indirect maximal oxygen consumption; (c) a shorter performance time and a lower maximal workload; (d) a higher urinary catecholamines excretion; (e) a blood pressure which did not rise regularly with the workload increment. It is concluded that, in subjects with Down's syndrome, the low level of physical fitness is not only explained by lack of motivation but also by physiological impairments. PMID- 2524597 TI - Functional outcome in pediatric trauma. AB - Two hundred fifty consecutive children hospitalized with severe injuries (at least one injury with an Abbreviated Injury Score [AIS] greater than or equal to 4 or two or more injuries with AIS scores greater than or equal to 2) were studied to determine their functional status at discharge and 6 months later using questions from the RAND Health Insurance Study (HIS) and the Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS). Of the 217 surviving patients, 190 (88%) had one or more functional limitations by the HIS scale at discharge. Ten (5%) were in a vegetative state, 40 (18%) severely disabled, 97 (45%) moderately disabled, and 70 (32%) healthy by the GOS. Six-month followup was complete for 156 patients. Of these, 84 (54%) had one or more functional limitations by the HIS scale. Seven (4%) were in a vegetative state, 17 (11%) severely disabled, 50 (32%) moderately disabled, and 82 (53%) healthy by the GOS. A substantial proportion of the whole group of children hospitalized for the treatment of severe injuries had ongoing physical disabilities that limited their participation in normal activities 6 months after they were discharged. This suggests a need for greater emphasis on the rehabilitation of pediatric trauma patients. PMID- 2524599 TI - Viral protein R of human immunodeficiency virus types 1 and 2 is dispensable for replication and cytopathogenicity in lymphoid cells. AB - Viral protein R (VPR) is conserved in human immunodeficiency virus types 1 and 2 (HIV-1 and HIV-2). To assess its function, we have constructed mutations within the vpr coding regions of HIV-1 and HIV-2 predicted to express truncated VPR products. Infectious virus was produced by each proviral clone and showed similar replication kinetics and cytopathogenicity when compared with the corresponding parental proviral clone. PMID- 2524600 TI - New retrovirus helper cells with almost no nucleotide sequence homology to retrovirus vectors. AB - We prepared retrovirus packaging cell lines containing gag-pol genes from spleen necrosis virus (expressed from a cytomegalovirus promoter and the simian virus 40 (SV40) polyadenylation sequences) and, on a separate vector, either the env gene from spleen necrosis virus (expressed from the Rous sarcoma virus promoter and the SV40 polyadenylation sequences) or the env gene from amphotropic murine leukemia virus (expressed from a cytomegalovirus promoter and the SV40 polyadenylation sequences). The nucleotide sequences in these packaging cell lines have almost no homology to the retrovirus vectors we used. Retrovirus vectors were produced from these new helper cell lines without any genetic interactions between the vectors and sequences in the helper cells and without transfer of the packaging sequences. PMID- 2524601 TI - Deoxyribonucleic acid content and medroxyprogesterone acetate treatment in metastatic renal cell carcinoma. AB - High dose medroxyprogesterone treatment was given to 20 patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma. Distant metastases occurred before the perifascial nephrectomy in 11 patients and following nephrectomy in 9. Tumor deoxyribonucleic acid content was analyzed by flow cytometry in 8 fresh samples from each primary tumor. Four patients had homogeneously diploid primary tumors, 5 had tumors with diploid and aneuploid samples, and all 8 tumor samples were aneuploid in 10 patients. Deoxyribonucleic acid analysis was unsuccessful in 1 patient. One patient with a diploid primary tumor died of an intercurrent disease. Three patients (16 per cent) had objective remissions and 1 had a long-lasting stable disease. Of the 4 patients with any response to medroxyprogesterone acetate treatment 3 had diploid primary tumors, and 1 had 8 diploid and 2 aneuploid samples in the primary tumor. The remaining 14 patients showed no response to treatment and had progressive disease (11 of these patients died within 14 months). All 14 patients had aneuploid primary tumors. The results indicate that tumor ploidy might be related to response to medroxyprogesterone acetate treatment. Deoxyribonucleic acid content seems to be an important parameter to consider in planning treatment of metastatic renal cell carcinoma. PMID- 2524598 TI - The cellular transcription factor E2f requires viral E1A and E4 gene products for increased DNA-binding activity and functions to stimulate adenovirus E2A gene expression. AB - Whereas a wide variety of cellular proteins interact with the cis-regulatory elements of the adenovirus E1A and E2A genes, only the DNA-binding activity of the cellular E2f factor is modulated by viral early-gene expression. An analysis of cellular E2f protein levels and adenovirus early-gene expression in a panel of independently cloned virus-transformed rodent cell lines and in virus-infected rodent cells has established that both the E1A 289-amino-acid (289R) protein and a yet-to-be-defined E4 gene product are required for maximal E2f DNA-binding activity. To distinguish between the multiple roles the E1A protein could serve in this process, the E2f DNA-binding activity was determined in a virus transformed cell line which contains a conditional-lethal mutation affecting the 289R protein. Since E4 gene expression was not altered by the incubation conditions, the observation of reduced cellular E2f activity at the nonpermissive temperature suggests a direct role for the E1A 289R protein in E2f activation. When a virus containing a deletion in the E4 gene was introduced into cell lines which can complement the E4 gene defect, a correlation between high cellular E2f levels and increased rates of E2A gene transcription was observed. A time course analysis of the viral infection revealed that E2f functions catalytically to stimulate viral E2A gene transcription. These observations have led to several hypotheses concerning possible mechanisms by which elevated E2A gene expression, which leads to cytotoxicity, might be avoided in the transformed cell. PMID- 2524603 TI - Safety of intracavernous injections using an alpha-blocking agent. AB - We tested the possibility of using intracavernous injections of the alpha blocking agent moxisylyte (6-acetoxy-thymoxy-ethyl-dimethylamine) as treatment of erectile impotence. Laboratory studies proved moxisylyte to be more active than saline (double-blind with crossover) but less active than papaverine (crossover), since it induced prolonged erection in most patients but rigid erection in only a few. However, penile vibration proved to enhance the moxisylyte effects, the combination resulting in rigid erection in 5 of 8 patients tested. Repeated office injections of moxisylyte in 70 patients resulted in clear improvement of impotence during the subsequent weeks in 50 per cent of the psychogenic, and 18 per cent of the organic and mixed impotent patients. Of 91 impotent patients 42 achieved satisfactory intercourse within 2 hours after an office injection, although previously the same dose induced a rigid erection in the office in only 24. Of 37 patients instructed in moxisylyte self-injections 92 per cent achieved successful results without any significant side effect. The main advantage of moxisylyte proved to be its safety, allowing for less compelling precautions than with papaverine: only 2 of the 170 patients injected with moxisylyte at our clinic had prolonged erections, that is 1.1 per cent compared to 14 per cent in a personal series who received papaverine. In regard to the therapeutic applications of intracavernous injection facilitating drugs, such as moxisylyte, should be tried first, with use of the more potent but also more dangerous drugs, such as papaverine, only when impotence fails to improve. PMID- 2524602 TI - Complications of whole bladder dihematoporphyrin ether photodynamic therapy. AB - Photodynamic therapy with dihematoporphyrin ether was used to treat superficial bladder tumors in 7 patients with a followup of at least 1 year. Each patient received treatment to the whole bladder and those with papillary lesions received additional focal treatment. At 3 months 4 of the 5 patients with papillary tumors (stages Ta and T1) and 1 of the 2 with diffuse carcinoma in situ (Tis) were free of disease. However, at 1 year only 3 patients remained free of disease. Of 5 patients with an increase in irritative bladder symptoms 4 had a contracted bladder, hydroureteronephrosis and vesicoureteral reflux. Deep bladder biopsies showed replacement of smooth muscle by fibrous tissue. Six patients had mild to moderate skin phototoxicity. We conclude that although photodynamic therapy is an attractive and exciting method to treat cancer, its use with dihematoporphyrin ether in cases of bladder carcinoma can be associated with significant complications. The correct treatment parameters for safe, effective therapy are not known to date. PMID- 2524604 TI - Host response to autologous endothelial seeding. AB - Dacron and expanded polytetrafluoroethylene grafts, seeded with autologous venous endothelial cells at the time of implantation, subsequently develop endothelial linings. However, it has not been shown whether the endothelial cells in these linings are derived from the seeded cells, or whether the seeding process itself stimulates host endothelial cells to proliferate and cover the grafts. As a first step in testing this hypothesis, bilateral end-to-side aortoiliac expanded polytetrafluoroethylene grafts with an internal diameter of 6 mm, an internodal distance of 22 microns, and an average length of 9.2 cm were placed in 10 adult mongrel dogs weighing 20 to 25 kg; the aorta was ligated just distal to the origin of the grafts. The graft on one side, chosen at random, was seeded with autologous endothelium that was harvested by enzyme single-stage technique from external jugular veins; the other side was not seeded. After 4 weeks the animals were anesthetized and heparinized, and the grafts were fixed by perfusion in vivo with 2.5% glutaraldehyde solution before they were removed. Both grafts occluded in two animals, and both grafts were patent in five animals. In two animals the seeded grafts were open and the unseeded grafts were occluded. In one the seeded graft was occluded and the unseeded graft was patent. There was no significant difference in clot-free surface area between seeded (29% +/- 18%) and unseeded (31% +/- 11%) grafts. Scanning electron microscopy showed the presence of an endothelial monolayer that averaged 39% +/- 20% and 36% +/- 26% coverage, respectively, in the clot-free midgraft portions of all seeded and unseeded patent grafts.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2524605 TI - Identification of Staphylococcus epidermidis vascular graft infections: a comparison of culture techniques. AB - Culture of prosthetic material is routinely used to exclude or implicate infection in the pathogenesis of late-appearing graft complications. In a canine model of aortic graft infection caused by a bacterial biofilm, the influence of culture media (blood agar and tryptic soy broth) and mechanical surface biofilm disruption (tissue grinding and ultrasonic oscillation) on microorganism recovery was determined. Dacron prostheses colonized in vitro with Staphylococcus epidermidis were implanted in the infrarenal aortas of 36 dogs. After 3 weeks an infection with anatomic characteristics of late graft infection in humans was present. Explantation (+/- surface biofilm disruption) of infected grafts showed broth culture was superior (p less than 0.001) to agar media in confirming infection. The recovery rate of S. epidermidis was 30% with agar media, was 72% with broth media alone, and was 83% with broth media plus biofilm disruption. In situ replacement of infected grafts plus parenteral antibiotics resulted in early (1 month) healing of 31 grafts without signs of infection. All replacement grafts were sterile when cultured in broth media alone, but the addition of biofilm disruption isolated the study strain from eight (22%) of 36 grafts (p less than 0.01). Biofilm disruption by tissue grinding or sonication increased bacteria recovery equally. When biofilm bacterial concentration was less than 100 colony forming units/cm2 of graft, only culture in broth media reliably recovered microorganisms. In the absence of perigraft inflammation, microbiologic recovery techniques that identify bacterial biofilms are necessary to exclude infection in studies concerning the pathogenesis of late graft complications or the treatment of S. epidermidis prosthetic infections. PMID- 2524606 TI - Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty versus surgery for limb-threatening ischemia. AB - This retrospective study compared the results of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) with those of infrainguinal bypass procedures in patients with critical arterial ischemia to determine which procedure had superior patency, limb salvage, and durability. The records of 54 patients who underwent 54 PTAs and 56 patients who underwent 63 infrainguinal bypasses (29 femoropopliteal and 34 femorodistal) from 1981 to 1987 were reviewed. In each patient PTA or bypass was the initial vascular procedure. Patients in both groups were comparable with respect to age, sex, and the presence of diabetes, hypertension, obesity, hypercholesterolemia, and smoking. Mean follow-up was 40 months (4 to 88 months) for the PTA group and 28 months (6 to 78 months) for the surgery group. Thirty nine of the 54 patients (72%) were initially improved after PTA, whereas 15 patients (28%) showed no improvement. During follow-up, 20 initially successful PTAs reoccluded. Thirty-two of 54 patients (59%) underwent subsequent procedures, which included repeat PTA (10) and distal bypass (14). Patency determined by noninvasive Doppler studies was 18% at 2 years. Limb salvage, which included such secondary procedures, was 78%. Two-year patency for femoropopliteal bypasses was 68% with a limb salvage of 90%. Femorodistal bypasses had a 2-year patency of 47% and a limb salvage of 74%. No perioperative deaths occurred. Twenty-one of the 63 patients (33%) had subsequent procedures, which included thrombectomy (5) and bypass revision (9). In patients treated for limb-threatening ischemia the 2-year patency after femoropopliteal bypass (68%) or femorodistal bypass (47%) is significantly better than that from PTA (18%, p less than 0.001).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2524607 TI - Endothelialization of vascular prosthetic surfaces after seeding or sodding with human microvascular endothelial cells. AB - The rapid establishment of an endothelial cell (EC) monolayer on the luminal surface of small-diameter vascular grafts may be necessary to prevent early thrombosis and failure. We have studied procedures used to promote EC coverage of vascular grafts and have compared preclotting prosthetic surfaces with ECs in platelet-rich plasma (seeding) with plating ECs onto a preestablished clot (sodding). We evaluated the rate of monolayer formation, the subsequent resistance to shear stress, and the effects of EC growth factors (ECGF and heparin) on these functions. Woven Dacron was seeded or sodded at a density of 2 x 10(5) cells/cm2 with human adult microvessel ECs derived from adipose tissue. In the presence of ECGF-heparin, the immediate establishment of an EC layer after sodding was observed, whereas seeded grafts required almost 48 hours for cells to reach the surface. In the absence of ECGF-heparin, sodded grafts still exhibited a complete monolayer of EC, whereas ECs were not observed at the surface of seeded grafts after 48 hours. After exposure to shear stress (up to 20 dynes/cm2) for 2 hours, most freshly sodded EC remained attached; however, the loss of loosely adherent cells did occur. EC seeded grafts remained covered with fibrin matrix after exposure to shear stress. We conclude that the use of a microvessel sodding technique as an alternative to previously reported seeding techniques is necessary for the immediate formation of an EC monolayer before implantation. PMID- 2524609 TI - A case of atrial septal defect combined with hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy. Left ventricular failure induced by balloon occlusion and the effect of nifedipine. AB - A 46 year old woman with hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy accompanied by an atrial septal defect is reported. Hemodynamic changes induced by balloon occlusion and concomitant nifedipine were studied. Left ventricular failure appeared after balloon closure of the defect. Nifedipine decreased the increment in left ventricular end-diastolic pressure induced by balloon occlusion. After the reduction of systemic vascular resistance, the ratio of intracardiac shunt flow was still larger. Surgical closure of the defect was performed and the postoperative course was good with the use of vasodilators. PMID- 2524608 TI - No evidence for a role of alcohol or other psychoactive drugs in accelerating immunodeficiency in HIV-1-positive individuals. A report from the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study. AB - In a multicenter cohort study of homosexual men, the proportion of seropositives at enrollment who developed the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) during the following 18 months ranged from 5.5% to 8.2% in 1597 alcohol drinkers vs 9.2% in 109 nondrinkers with no clear trend according to use, and from 6.3% to 9.6% for 1662 users vs 7.2% for 83 nonusers of psychoactive drugs prior to enrollment. Among seropositive men with low initial T helper lymphocyte counts, those who continued to use drugs showed no significantly higher 18-month risk of AIDS than nonusers (13% vs 10%); the corresponding risks were 13% and 15%, respectively, for continued heavier vs continued lighter consumption of alcohol. No other manifestations of immunodeficiency were positively associated with substance use prior to enrollment. Prior use was not associated with low mean T helper cell counts at enrollment, and continued drug or alcohol use after enrollment was not associated with greater subsequent decline in counts. As used in a large cohort of homosexual men, psychoactive substances did not enhance the progression of human immunodeficiency virus infection. PMID- 2524610 TI - Electrocardiographic criteria of left ventricular hypertrophy in the presence of left bundle branch block. AB - When left bundle branch block (LBBB) is present on the electrocardiogram, the diagnosis of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) may be difficult. The left ventricular mass in 70 patients with LBBB was estimated by echocardiography, and was compared to the QRS configuration on the electrocardiogram. We found that there was agreement between a monophasic R pattern in lead 1 or V6 (sensitivity 79.3%, 70.7%) and left ventricular hypertrophy. We suggest that a monophasic R pattern in L1 and V6 may provide a useful simple index of left ventricular hypertrophy in the presence of left bundle branch block. PMID- 2524611 TI - Modification of enzyme activities concerned with collagen metabolism in the heart of spontaneously hypertensive and aortic-constricted rats. AB - The activities of three enzymes concerned with collagen metabolism 4-prolyl hydroxylase, UDP-glucose: collagen glucosyltransferase and glucosyl-galactosyl hydroxylysine glucohydrolase and 4-hydroxyproline content have been studied in the cardiac ventricles of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) during prehypertensive, hypertensive and sustained hypertensive stages (respectively 4.5, 12 and 19 weeks of age). They were compared with values observed in age matched normotensive Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY). The same studies have been performed in parallel on aortic-constricted rats (ACR) 8 days after suprarenal constriction of the abdominal aorta. The most striking finding was a significant increase in cardiac prolyl hydroxylase specific activity in the ACR but not in the SHR. No variation in 4-hydroxyproline concentration was found in the hearts of ACR. In contrast, a decrease in 4-hydroxyproline concentration was found in the hearts of SHR at 19 weeks. Cardiac glucosyltransferase specific activity was significantly elevated only in the SHR at 12 weeks. No variation in glucohydrolase specific activity was detected in the hearts of either SHR or ACR. The cardiac enzyme activities all decreased with age. These data show that the alterations in cardiac collagen metabolism are different in SHR and ACR. The patterns of the alterations found in the heart mirror those observed in the aorta in both models under the same experimental conditions. PMID- 2524613 TI - Acquired mitral stenosis in children under fifteen. AB - The clinical and hemodynamic studies of acquired MS in 30 children under the age of 15 are reviewed. There are 13 male and 17 female patients with an age range from 9 to 14 (mean 12.6) years. The majority of the patients (78%) are in New York Heart Association functional class 3 or 4. Only 55% of the patients had a history suggestive of previous rheumatic fever. All patients had pulmonary hypertension and 41% had severe pulmonary hypertension. A closed mitral commissurotomy was performed in all patients. There were 3 deaths and 2 patients required reoperation because of restenosis. The early onset of mitral stenosis in our population was suggestive of a very early onset of valvulitis with subsequent fibrosis and narrowing of the mitral valve. This is in contrast to the acute fulminating form of rheumatic fever with valvulitis manifested by severe mitral and or aortic insufficiency. PMID- 2524612 TI - Response of intracellular Ca2+ transients in cultured vascular smooth muscle cells to angiotensin II, vasopressin, acetylcholine and atrionatriuretic peptide. AB - Modulation of intracellular Ca2+ concentration [( Ca2+]i) is a signal for the contraction of vascular smooth muscle cells responding to vasoreactive substances. We prepared confluently cultured smooth muscle cells from rat aorta, loaded them with Ca2+ sensitive fluorescent dye, fura-2, and measured the [Ca2+]i transient by microscopic spectrofluorometry. The [Ca2+]i was distributed heterogeneously in cytosol. Angiotensin II (10 nM) transiently doubled the [Ca2+]i. It was also increased by arginine-vasopressin (10 nM), even after stimulation by angiotensin II was saturated. In contrast, acetylcholine (10 microM) or rat atrionatriuretic peptide (10 nM) did not change the [Ca2+]i in the same detecting field of the same cell, contradicting previous reports. PMID- 2524614 TI - [Reverse redistribution in the stress thallium scan--correlation of coronary blood flow and myocardial damage]. AB - In order to make clear 'reverse redistribution (RR)' phenomenon in stress thallium scan we investigated 477 consecutive patients who were consisted of 74 cases with PTCA (PTCA group), 86 cases with coronary artery bypass graft (CABG group) and 317 cases without any revascularization (N group). RR was detected in 12 cases out of PTCA group (16%), in 11 cases out of CABG group (13%) and in 10 cases out of N group (3.2%), and the incidence of RR in PTCA or CABG group was higher than that of N group (p less than 0.01). In 33 patients with RR the cases without significant coronary artery stenosis were more than those with stenosis (p less than 0.01) and the cases with myocardial damage were more than those without damage (p less than 0.01). In quantitative analysis washout rate at the RR areas showed relatively high value, but it was not significant compared with normal value (53 +/- 9.0% vs. 49 +/- 1.9%). In conclusion, RR had a tendency to appear in the condition of normal myocardium mingled with scar and of sufficient coronary blood flow. The mechanism of the phenomenon was thought to be that initial uptake of thallium in the partially scarred area was as high as in the normal myocardium, but washout of thallium from its remaining normal myocardium is normal or faster so that the defect appears at the myocardium mingled with scar. Therefore existence of reverse redistribution suspects the myocardium mingled with scar and sufficient coronary blood flow to the remaining normal myocardium. PMID- 2524615 TI - Successful coronary angioplasty for the remaining coronary artery with two completely occluded arteries with prior bypass grafting. AB - A 61-year-old man underwent coronary artery bypass grafting because of severe three-vessel disease. Since he had post-operative anginal attacks, coronary angiography was performed. The examination revealed the right coronary artery (RCA) and left circumflex artery (LCX) to be completely occluded, and the left anterior descending artery (LAD) showed 90% stenosis. Furthermore, the three bypass grafts (to RCA, LCX and LAD) were all occluded. The patient had severe anginal episodes despite drug therapy. Since the patient refused a second bypass operation, we performed percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty on the LAD. Subsequently, the stenosis of LAD was reduced to 25%, eliminating subjective episodes of angina pectoris. PMID- 2524616 TI - Bronchoalveolar lavage studies in uveitis patients without radiological intrathoracic involvement of sarcoidosis. AB - In the present study, we investigated thirty uveitis patients who had a possible diagnosis of ocular sarcoidosis, no respiratory symptoms, and normal chest X rays, in order to determine whether bronchoalveolar lavage was useful for establishing a diagnosis of subclinical pulmonary involvement of sarcoidosis. Sixteen of 30 uveitis patients showed bronchoalveolar lymphocytosis (39 +/- 11%) as compared to normal controls (14 +/- 3%). Ten of these 16 patients were associated with significantly increased proportions of CD3+ cells with elevated CD4+/CD8+ ratios (P less than 0.01). These data were consistent with those of patients with active pulmonary sarcoidosis (stage 1 and 2) except for total cell count in lavage fluid, but different from those of patients with hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Transbronchial lung biopsy showed noncaseating epithelioid cell granuloma in 4 of 10 uveitis patients with bronchoalveolar T-lymphocytosis and increased CD4+/CD8+ ratios. Immunohistochemical studies of biopsied lung tissues showed many CD3+ cells and CD4+ cells with very few CD8+ cells in the granuloma. These results suggest that T-lymphocytosis with elevated CD4+/CD8+ ratios in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid could be a good marker in predicting the pulmonary involvement of sarcoidosis in patients with suspected ocular sarcoidosis and normal chest X-rays. PMID- 2524617 TI - Changes in plasma level of alpha-atrial natriuretic polypeptide (alpha-ANP) and responsiveness of the aorta to exogenous alpha-ANP subsequent to myocardial infarction in rats. AB - The changes in plasma level of alpha-atrial natriuretic polypeptide (alpha-ANP) and the relaxing responses to exogenous alpha-ANP of strips of rat aorta pretreated with methoxamine were examined at one, four and eight weeks after myocardial infarction induced by left coronary ligation. Responses to a beta adrenergic stimulant, isoprenaline, and sodium nitroprusside of the vessel pretreated with high potassium were also evaluated up to twelve weeks. Plasma concentrations of immunoreactive alpha-ANP, which were measured at one, four and twelve weeks, were significantly elevated in rats with myocardial infarction (MI rats) as compared with sham-operated rats (sham-rats). The relaxation responses of the aorta to exogenenous alpha-ANP in MI-rats were significantly reduced at one and four weeks as compared with sham-rats. The difference was, however, less obvious at eight weeks. The responses to isoprenaline tended to be reduced from the 1st week to the 12th week, and the difference was significant at eight weeks, whereas those to methoxamine and sodium nitroprusside were unchanged. It is concluded that the MI-rats are partially resistant to the vasodilating effects of alpha-ANP and isoprenaline without any change in responses to the alpha-stimulant and sodium nitroprusside, although these changes are transient. PMID- 2524618 TI - Cytoprotective effect of plasmin inhibitor on necrotizing agent-induced gastric lesions in rats. AB - We studied the effect of plasmin inhibitor on ethanol and ammonia-induced gastric mucosal lesions in rats using an ex vivo chamber. Tranexamic acid and aminocaproic acid significantly inhibited macroscopic gastric hemorrhagic necrosis and attenuated the decrease of gastric transmucosal potential difference induced by 50% ethanol and 1% ammonia. The protection of gastric mucosa afforded by tranexamic acid and aminocaproic acid was not affected by pretreatment with indomethacin (5 mg/kg). These results suggest that plasmin inhibitor plays an important role in the prevention of gastric deep necrosis following exposure of the stomach to a damaging agent. PMID- 2524619 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide-induced inhibition of amiloride-sensitive 22Na+ uptake into cerebral capillaries of spontaneously hypertensive rats. AB - 22Na+ uptake into capillaries isolated from the cerebral cortex of adult (20- to 26-week-old) sustained-hypertensive spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and stroke-prone SHR (SHRSP) was compared with findings in age-matched Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY). In the presence of 1.0 mM ouabain, 1.0 mM furosemide and 2.0 mM LiCl, 22Na+ uptake into the isolated cerebral capillaries of WKY and SHR was significantly reduced to 38% and 65% of the control values, respectively, when 0.1 microM alpha-rat atrial natriuretic peptide (rANP) was added to the uptake buffer. The rANP-induced inhibition observed in SHR was significantly less, as compared with that in the WKY. Noteworthy was the observation that the Na+ uptake into the cerebral capillaries of SHRSP was not inhibited by rANP. As this peptide is thought to regulate amiloride-sensitive Na+ transport from the blood to brain by interacting with specific receptors, the present finding may relate to the etiology of dysfunction of the blood-brain barrier, in the presence of hypertension. PMID- 2524620 TI - [Characteristics of compensatory myocardial hypertrophy in ischemic heart disease]. AB - A 30% increase in mean values of net weight of the heart and the weight of its individual portions in 88 males, who had suffered from coronary disease and died suddenly as a result of the first major coronary disaster (in the absence of postinfarction scars and systemic arterial hypertension) was indicative of an evenly distributed compensatory myocardial hypertrophy of the entire heart. Therefore, detection of increased heart weight may be used as an additional indicator for intravital and postmortem diagnosis of early and latent coronary heart disease. PMID- 2524621 TI - [Laparoscopic diagnosis of a strangulated hernia of the obturator foramen]. PMID- 2524622 TI - [Combined retroperitoneal approach in reconstructive surgery of the infrarenal segment of the aorta, its bifurcation and iliac arteries]. PMID- 2524623 TI - [Selection of the method of reconstructive surgery in aorto-femoral occlusion]. AB - Three types of atherosclerotic lesions of the aorto-femoral segment were revealed on the basis of clinical and angiographic findings in 258 patients treated by reconstructive operations. It is noted that standard aorto-femoral reconstructions are indicated in patients with a low operative risk and various types of lesions; patients with a high operative risk and extended (type II) and concurrent (type III) stenoses and occlusions should be treated by operations which cause less injury--crossed femoral-femoral shunting, axillary-femoral shunting, and intraoperative balloon dilatation in combination with reconstructive operations. PMID- 2524624 TI - [Laser angioplasty of peripheral arteries]. AB - The first experience in laser angioplasty of the superficial femoral artery in 5 patients is discussed. Local occlusion or critical stenosis (90% and more) of the vessel with signs of disturbed blood supply to the limb were the indications for the intervention. For conducting laser angioplasty the authors used an AIG neodymium laser (1.06 microns) and a light guide of their own design which allowed a canal of no less than 3.1-3.9 mm in diameter to be formed in the plaque. Patency of the artery was restored in all 5 cases and a satisfactory clinical effect was produced. Thrombosis of the recanalized segment occurred on the 12th day after angioplasty in one case. The prospects of the method and the means of further studies are discussed. PMID- 2524625 TI - [Retinal changes--degeneration or side effect caused by etretinate (Tigason) therapy?]. AB - Case report of retinal changes in a patient treated with etretinate (Tigason). The possibility of drug-induced retinopathy is discussed. PMID- 2524626 TI - [Acute arthritis associated with infection]. PMID- 2524627 TI - New haemocompatible polymers assessed by thrombelastography. AB - Mimicry of the nonthrombogenic surface of the erythrocyte has been advocated as the starting point for the development of nonthrombogenic biomaterials. Phosphorylcholine forms 88% of the outer surface of the erythrocyte, and so materials containing it should be nonthrombogenic. We have evaluated the thrombogenicity of such materials and compared them with Dacron and PTFE. Three materials containing phosphorylcholine were used: a naturally occurring phospholipid (dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine, DPPC), a polymerized phospholipid (diacetylenic phosphatidylcholine, DAPC) and a polyester polyurethane (Polyester G). The thrombogenic potential of these materials was assessed by material thrombelastography (MTEG). This technique uses human whole blood at 37 degrees C, without an air interface, and records the elasticity of the blood clot produced. Since each material is evaluated with a control surface, extraneous differences due to factors other than the test material are eliminated. Analysis, and examples of the MTEG traces are shown and discussed. The phosphorylcholine containing materials were found to have a reduced amount of clotting factor activation, but only DPPC was better than Dacron and PTFE. MTEG demonstrated the known thrombogenicity of Dacron towards platelets. A striking reduction in platelet activation was shown for the three phosphorylcholine containing materials. These three materials show only 25% of the platelet activation of PTFE. These materials warrant further investigation as potentially very useful biomaterials. PMID- 2524628 TI - Is recurrent low back trouble associated with increased lumbar sagittal mobility? AB - The hypothesis that increased lumbar sagittal mobility constitutes a risk factor for recurrent low back trouble was tested in respect of two specific groups of subjects thought likely to display this phenomenon: young females reporting recurrent back pain, and middle-aged adults reporting recurrent or persistent sciatic symptoms. Lumbar flexibility was estimated from back surface curvatures by a validated technique which uses a flexicurve to record mobility in upper (T12 L4) and lower (L4-S2) lumbar regions. Mean mobility for young females (less than 40 years) with recurrent back pain was less, though not significantly so, than those without back trouble. A loss of mobility was also found in young males with recurrent trouble. However, it was a proportionally greater loss than that found in the females and was statistically significant. The mean mobility for middle age adults with recurrent sciatic symptoms was significantly reduced compared to those without a history of back trouble. Whilst these results failed to support the general hypothesis, it remains possible that aspects of increased mobility not studied here, such as localized segmental instability or abnormal coupled motions, may be associated with an increased frequency of recurrent low back trouble. PMID- 2524630 TI - How do you spell relief: PTCA or CABG? PMID- 2524629 TI - Production of monoclonal antibodies to dehydroepiandrosterone-sulphate after immunization of mouse with dehydroepiandrosterone-bovine serum albumin conjugate. AB - Monoclonal antibodies with a much higher specificity for DHA-S than for DHA were obtained from a BALB/c mouse immunized with a non-sulphated DHA-7CMO-BSA antigen. An improved fusion technique using PEG containing 10% DMSO instead of PEG alone increased the number of positive hybridomas. One of the five monoclonal antibodies obtained, showed a high affinity for DHA-S (Ka = 10(10) M-1) and very low cross-reactions with androsterone (0.62%) and androsterone sulphate (0.83%) which made it potentially useful for direct quantitation of DHA-S in human serum. PMID- 2524631 TI - [Coagulation inhibitors in patients with neoplasms]. AB - Mean plasma concentrations of the main inhibitors of blood coagulation antithrombin III (AT III), protein C and protein S were determined in 149 patients with different local and disseminated malignancies. Results were compared with findings in 44 healthy subjects. No statistical significant differences for AT III, protein C and free protein S were found between patients and controls. However, total protein S showed a significant increase in the patient group (p less than 0.0003). None of the parameters analyzed showed differences according to the degree of tumoral activity nor to the tumour localization. We conclude that the main inhibitors of the blood coagulation seem not to play an important role in the pathogenesis of the hypercoagulable state in malignancy. The increased levels in total protein S would indicate endothelial synthesis in response to thrombogenic stimuli. PMID- 2524633 TI - [The team form of work organization and payment]. PMID- 2524632 TI - [Social hygiene checkup on children from unhappy families]. PMID- 2524634 TI - [The organization of nurses' work in an interdistrict pediatric surgical department]. PMID- 2524635 TI - [The work of the nurse in feeding newborn infants in a maternity home]. PMID- 2524636 TI - Satellite cells derived from streptozotocin-diabetic rats display altered fusion parameters in vitro. AB - Myogenic satellite cells were isolated from nondiabetic and streptozotocin diabetic rats and studied in vitro. Streptozotocin (STZ) administration produced both hyperglycemia and glucosuria in adult rats when compared to controls. (P less than 0.01), with 12.5% mortality in untreated animals. Insulin therapy diminished blood glucose levels to those found in nondiabetic animals. Only STZ diabetic rats displayed symptoms of Type I diabetes, including polydipsia, polyuria, and hyperphagia. STZ-treated rats possessed less leg muscle mass and less subcutaneous, intermuscular, and intramuscular fat. Conversely, nondiabetic rats had a greater mean body weight (P less than 0.01) at the end of the experiment than did diabetic rats. Primary cultures of diabetic-derived satellite cells displayed decreased overall ability (P less than 0.01) to fuse to form multinucleated myotubes in vitro than controls. In addition, secondary cultures of diabetic-derived satellite cells achieved maximal fusion one day later than secondary cultures of control-derived cells. Collectively, these data provide preliminary evidence to suggest that untreated insulin-dependent diabetes results in altered fusion characteristics of myogenic satellite cells. Additional studies utilizing satellite cells from diabetic animals will provide valuable definition of the satellite cell involvement in skeletal muscle autophagy which is a symptom of type I diabetes. PMID- 2524637 TI - Persistence of increased bone resorption and possible role of dehydroepiandrosterone as a bone metabolism determinant in osteoporotic women in late post-menopause. AB - Specific data on bone metabolism in the late post-menopause are relatively scarce. This study presents data on the biochemical, hormonal and bone mineral status of a selected group of 22 osteoporotic women with at least 1 vertebral fracture who had been post-menopausal for a minimum of 5 yr. Bone resorption parameters were elevated in over two-thirds of these patients. The serum levels of dehydroepiandrosterone and its sulphate were negatively correlated with age and years since menopause but positively correlated with bone mineral content, bone turnover parameters (urinary calcium/creatinine, osteocalcin), 1,25 dihydroxy-vitamin D levels and the 1,25-dihydroxy-vitamin D/25-hydroxy-vitamin D ratio. These findings indicate that careful evaluation of the bone turnover rate in the late post-menopause can still have an important bearing on therapeutic decisions. They also support the theory that adrenal androgens play a role in bone mineral metabolism in the late post-menopause. PMID- 2524638 TI - [Iron assimilation by Yersinia pestis on iron-deficient media]. AB - The growth of plague bacteria may be limited by the level of iron concentration in the nutrient medium. The virulent strains of the plague microbe possess the more pronounced mechanism of iron assimilation as compared to the vaccine strain. The iron ions are extracted by the virulent and vaccine strains only under the cell surface contact with the iron-saturated transferrin. The iron-sorbing function is peculiar to the plague microbe cell walls which is pronounced more strongly in the virulent strains. PMID- 2524639 TI - Teicoplanin in patients who are allergic to vancomycin. PMID- 2524640 TI - Collagen production in bone and cartilage after short-term exposure to streptozotocin. PMID- 2524641 TI - Effect of atrial natriuretic peptide on the release of rat renal kallikrein. AB - The effect of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) on renal kallikrein release was investigated in barbiturate anesthetized rats. ANP injections in a pharmacological dose (1 microgram i.v.) increased kallikrein excretion for about 15 min. The effect of ANP on kallikrein excretion was abolished when amiloride (2.5 mg i.v.) was administered prior to the injection of the peptide. Intravenous infusion of ANP (1 or 5 micrograms/h) or of isotonic saline (2 or 4 ml/h) did not alter urinary kallikrein output. When the ANP infusion was discontinued, the excretory rate of the enzyme tended to decrease. This decrease was prevented by the administration of 0.1 mg/h desoxycorticosterone-glucoside. A transient increase in kallikrein excretion, coincident with the appearance of diuresis, was observed during ANP infusion in the mineralocorticoid-treated animals. The rate of kallikrein release into the incubation medium by rat kidney slices was not affected by the presence of ANP (10(-9)M). These results can be interpreted as effects following an increased distal sodium delivery rather than a direct effect of ANP on connecting tubule cells (CNT cells). PMID- 2524642 TI - Chronic low back pain and the failed low back syndrome. AB - Disorders associated with back pain usually have two components. One pertains to the spinal disorder and the other to symptoms and signs that result from compromise of individual nerve roots, the cauda equina, or, in some cases, the conus medullaris. In this article, those spinal structures capable of giving rise to pain, its approximate distribution, the nature of the discomfort and disturbance of spinal and neural function consequent upon disease of the vertebral column, and the evaluation and management of the individual patient will be considered. PMID- 2524643 TI - Guidelines for prophylaxis against Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia for persons infected with human immunodeficiency virus. AB - Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP), the most common presenting manifestation of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), is a major and recurring cause of morbidity and mortality for persons infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). In recent years, important advances have been made in understanding which patient subpopulations are at highest risk for developing PCP and in the design of chemotherapeutic regimens that can reduce the frequency of this illness. Recently, a number of experts convened by the National Institutes of Health independently reviewed data on prophylaxis against PCP among persons infected with HIV, and then provided recommendations to the U.S. Public Health Service concerning which persons should receive prophylaxis and what specific prophylactic regimens should be used. The resulting guidelines are detailed below. PMID- 2524644 TI - Effect of calmodulin on sarcoplasmic reticular Ca2+-transport in the aging heart. AB - Heart failure is common among the elderly and an alteration in myocardial Ca2+ transport is believed to be involved in its depressed contractile performance. Although ATP-dependent sarcoplasmic reticular (SR) Ca2+ transport has been reported to decrease in old hearts, virtually nothing appears to be known about the Ca2+ pump activity of SR in aging myocardium in the presence of calmodulin, one of its endogenous activators. In this study, the activity of the Ca2+ pump of aging cardiac SR was assessed in the presence of this endogenous stimulator. This assessment was therefore designed to give additional information about the status of this enzyme in old hearts. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were used and were divided into 3 groups: young (4-6 months old); middle-aged (15-17 months old) and old age (24-25 months old). Purified SR membranes were isolated from ventricular tissues. ATP-dependent Ca2+ accumulation by membrane vesicles of middle-aged and old hearts was significantly depressed in comparison to young hearts at all Ca2+ concentrations employed in the absence and presence of calmodulin. The activity of this Ca2+ transporter was similar in middle-aged and old hearts even in the presence of calmodulin. These results suggest that the activity of the Ca2+ pump in SR of aging hearts is depressed even in the presence of calmodulin. PMID- 2524646 TI - cys-3, the positive-acting sulfur regulatory gene of Neurospora crassa, encodes a protein with a putative leucine zipper DNA-binding element. AB - The sulfur-regulatory circuit of Neurospora crassa consists of a set of unlinked structural genes which encode sulfur-catabolic enzymes and two major regulatory genes which govern their expression. The positive-acting cys-3 regulatory gene is required to turn on the expression of the sulfur-related enzymes, whereas the other regulatory gene, scon, acts in a negative fashion to repress the synthesis of the same set of enzymes. Expression of the cys-3 regulatory gene was found to be controlled by scon and by sulfur availability. The nucleotide sequence of the cys-3 gene was determined and can be translated to yield a protein of molecular weight 25,892 which displays significant homology with the oncogene protein Fos, yeast GCN4 protein, and sea urchin histone H1. Moreover, the putative cys-3 protein has a well-defined leucine zipper element plus an adjacent charged region which together may make up a DNA-binding site. A cys-3 mutant and a cys-3 temperature-sensitive mutant lead to substitutions of glutamine for basic amino acids within the charged region and thus may alter DNA-binding properties of the cys-3 protein. PMID- 2524645 TI - Sequence and structural requirements of a mitochondrial protein import signal defined by saturation cassette mutagenesis. AB - The Saccharomyces cerevisiae F1-ATPase beta subunit precursor contains redundant mitochondrial protein import information at its NH2 terminus (D. M. Bedwell, D. J. Klionsky, and S. D. Emr, Mol. Cell. Biol. 7:4038-4047, 1987). To define the critical sequence and structural features contained within this topogenic signal, one of the redundant regions (representing a minimal targeting sequence) was subjected to saturation cassette mutagenesis. Each of 97 different mutant oligonucleotide isolates containing single (32 isolates), double (45 isolates), or triple (20 isolates) point mutations was inserted in front of a beta-subunit gene lacking the coding sequence for its normal import signal (codons 1 through 34 were deleted). The phenotypic and biochemical consequences of these mutations were then evaluated in a yeast strain deleted for its normal beta-subunit gene (delta atp2). Consistent with the lack of an obvious consensus sequence for mitochondrial protein import signals, many mutations occurring throughout the minimal targeting sequence did not significantly affect its import competence. However, some mutations did result in severe import defects. In these mutants, beta-subunit precursor accumulated in the cytoplasm, and the yeast cells exhibited a respiration defective phenotype. Although point mutations have previously been identified that block mitochondrial protein import in vitro, a subset of the mutations reported here represents the first single missense mutations that have been demonstrated to significantly block mitochondrial protein import in vivo. The previous lack of such mutations in the beta-subunit precursor apparently relates to the presence of redundant import information in this import signal. Together, our mutants define a set of constraints that appear to be critical for normal activity of this (and possibly other) import signals. These include the following: (i) mutant signals that exhibit a hydrophobic moment greater than 5.5 for the predicted amphiphilic alpha-helical conformation of this sequence direct near normal levels of beta-subunit import (ii) at least two basic residues are necessary for efficient signal function, (iii) acidic amino acids actively interfere with import competence, and (iv) helix-destabilizing residues also interfere with signal function. These experimental observations provide support for mitochondrial protein import models in which both the structure and charge of the import signal play a critical role in directing mitochondrial protein targeting and import. PMID- 2524647 TI - Molecular cloning of a Neurospora crassa carotenoid biosynthetic gene (albino-3) regulated by blue light and the products of the white collar genes. AB - The albino-3 (al-3) gene of Neurospora crassa, which probably encodes the carotenoid biosynthetic enzyme geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate synthetase, was cloned. The N. crassa triple mutant al-3 qa-2 aro-9 was transformed to qa-2+ with mixtures of plasmids bearing N. crassa DNA inserts, and the transformants were screened for the al-3+ phenotype. One al-3+ qa-2+ transformant (AL3-1) was examined in detail and shown to contain intact vector sequences integrated into the N. crassa genome. The vector and some flanking sequences were recovered from AL3-1 after restriction, ligation, and selection of chloramphenicol-resistant transformants of Escherichia coli. The flanking sequences were subsequently used to detect the al-3-containing plasmid in the mixture of about 1,800 plasmids. Restriction fragment length polymorphism mapping was carried out to confirm the identity of the cloned fragment. The level of the al-3 mRNA was shown to be increased 15-fold in light-induced (compared with that in dark-grown) wild-type mycelia. The light-dependent increase in al-3 mRNA levels was not observed in presumed regulatory mutant (white collar) strains. PMID- 2524648 TI - Differential transcription of exon 1 of the human c-fms gene in placental trophoblasts and monocytes. AB - Structural analysis of the 5' end of the human c-fms gene revealed that a large intron of about 25 kilobases separates an upstream noncoding exon (exon 1) from the signal peptide-containing exon (exon 2). Northern (RNA) blot analysis, S1 nuclease mapping, and primer extensions showed that exon 1 is transcribed in placenta but not in cells of the monocytic lineage. This is due to the differential usage of promoters, separated by approximately 25 kilobases, in a cell-specific manner. One major c-fms transcript was observed in U-937 cells, whereas multiple initiation sites for transcription appeared to be utilized in placental cells. Nucleotide sequence comparisons showed that the 3' end of the human platelet-derived growth factor receptor gene lies approximately 350 base pairs upstream of the major initiation sites for c-fms transcription in placental trophoblasts. PMID- 2524649 TI - Immunological identification of the alternative oxidase of Neurospora crassa mitochondria. AB - Neurospora crassa mitochondria use a branched electron transport system in which one branch is a conventional cytochrome system and the other is an alternative cyanide-resistant, hydroxamic acid-sensitive oxidase that is induced when the cytochrome system is impaired. We used a monoclonal antibody to the alternative oxidase of the higher plant Sauromatum guttatum to identify a similar set of related polypeptides (Mr, 36,500 and 37,000) that was associated with the alternative oxidase activity of N. crassa mitochondria. These polypeptides were not present constitutively in the mitochondria of a wild-type N. crassa strain, but were produced in high amounts under conditions that induced alternative oxidase activity. Under the same conditions, mutants in the aod-1 gene, with one exception, produced apparently inactive alternative oxidase polypeptides, whereas mutants in the aod-2 gene failed to produce these polypeptides. The latter findings support the hypothesis that aod-1 is a structural gene for the alternative oxidase and that the aod-2 gene encodes a component that is required for induction of alternative oxidase activity. Finally, our results indicate that the alternative oxidase is highly conserved, even between plant and fungal species. PMID- 2524651 TI - Regulation of transforming growth factor alpha and transforming growth factor beta messenger ribonucleic acid abundance in T-47D, human breast cancer cells. AB - Both transforming growth factor beta (TGF beta) and TGF alpha mRNA are expressed in human breast cancer cell lines. We have investigated the relationship of mRNA abundance for these growth modulators to the proliferation rate of a number of human breast cancer cell lines. Furthermore, we have investigated the relationship of regulation of TGF beta and TGF alpha mRNA to growth inhibition caused by progestins and nonsteroidal antiestrogens in T-47D human breast cancer cells. The abundance of TGF beta and TGF alpha mRNA in human breast cancer cell lines was not related directly to proliferation rate of the cells in culture or estrogen receptor positivity or negativity. The relationship of TGF beta and TGF alpha mRNA to growth inhibition caused by antiestrogens and progestins was investigated in T-47D human breast cancer cells. We observed that in T-47D human breast cancer cells the abundance of TGF beta mRNA is decreased in a time- and dose-dependent fashion by progestins but remains unaltered by nonsteroidal antiestrogens. Treatment of T-47D cells for 24 h with 10 nM medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) reduced the level of TGF beta mRNA to one third that present in untreated cells. The same treatment increased TGF alpha mRNA 3-fold above untreated controls in a time- and dose-dependent fashion and nonsteroidal antiestrogens caused a small decrease. The regulation of both TGF alpha and TGF beta mRNA was not directly related to inhibition of growth by progestins and antiestrogens in T-47D cells.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2524652 TI - Macroscopic and microscopic vasculature of the duodenal-biliary-pancreatic complex. AB - The author makes a survey on the macroscopic and microscopic vasculature of the duodeno-biliary-pancreatic complex, based on his works in the field as well as on the specialty literature. This complex is a real morphofunctional and medico surgical entity with a common embryonic origin. The related pathology and the common access paths enhance this approach. The presentation of arterial sources at the macro-, meso- and microscopical magnitude levels is accompanied by practical appreciations, especially surgical ones, and stresses the sectors with a good irrigation richly anastomosed as against the less well-vascularized ones, especially at the circulatory level, responsible for post-operatory necroses. It is underlined that, in comparison with the studies concerning the endocrine pancreas microvasculature, the terminal circulatory network of the other components of the duodenal-biliary-pancreatic complex have been studied in a lesser degree. In conclusion the author insists upon the needs for a better knowledge of this veritable crossroad (real crucial point) of the supramesencholic level, meeting place of there types of digestive juices, so necessary in the economy of the "import apparatus of the matter" (Rainer). PMID- 2524650 TI - Fibronectin is overproduced by keloid fibroblasts during abnormal wound healing. AB - Wound healing in certain individuals leads to the development of keloid tumors which exhibit abnormal collagen metabolism and an increased abundance of extracellular matrix components. Comparison of fibronectin levels in fibroblasts derived from keloids and normal dermis revealed a relative increase in intracellular and extracellular fibronectin in the keloid-derived cells. While fibronectin was similarly processed, compartmentalized, and degraded by both cell types, fibronectin biosynthesis was found to be accelerated as much as fourfold in keloid fibroblasts due to a corresponding increase in the amount of accumulated fibronectin mRNA. These changes account for the elevated steady-state level of the molecule in keloid fibroblasts and suggest that increased fibronectin in keloid lesions is due to overproduction by the wound-healing fibroblasts. Glucocorticoid treatment stimulated fibronectin biosynthesis in both normal and keloid fibroblasts. However, the amount of stimulation was less for the keloid-derived cells, indicating a limitation on maximal rates of fibronectin biosynthesis. These observations suggest that separate mechanisms act to control basal and maximal rates of fibronectin production. Biosynthesis of the 140 kilodalton fibronectin receptor was also found to be increased in keloid fibroblasts, suggesting some level of coordinate regulation for fibronectin and fibronectin receptor expression. PMID- 2524653 TI - Lung pathogenesis. VIII. Relationships between alveolar surfactant disorders and development of lung diseases. AB - The new data concerning the structure and dynamics of the alveolar surfactant, its phospholipid and apoprotein components and their synthesis, storage and secretion by the large granular alveolocytes, the formation and disconnection of lipoprotein complexes, their disorders and pathological relationships were analysed in order to discern the possibility of a more or less important pathogenetic role in the onset and development of lung diseases. Sometimes, surfactant disorders appeared as epiphenomena, like in pulmonary edemas; at other times, they behaved as a turn plate enhancing and centering the development of alveolar lipoproteinosis, microlithiasis alveolaris, hyaline membrane disease of newborns and the adult respiratory distress syndrome. Focusing the pathogenesis on the surfactant disorders and on their causes, a unification of mechanisms became possible with the increase in complexity of processes by the intervention of other complicating factors, mainly the self-perpetuating ones. PMID- 2524654 TI - Ultrastructural changes in the mouse fetal neocortex following chronic maternal alcoholization. AB - Female mice (RAP strain) were alcoholized for 30-50 days before mating and during pregnancy until killing, with a 20% solution of ethanol administered instead of drinking water. From foetuses of 16, 18, 20 days and from newborn puppies on day 1 parietal neocortex fragments were excised and examined electronmicroscopically. Chronic maternal alcoholization induces in the neocortex of mouse foetuses and newborn puppies various ultrastructural changes: swelling of mitochondria with the disappearance of cristae and vacuolation, both in the capillary endothelium and in the cells of the neural tissue; enlargement of intercellular spaces; in the neocortex zones rich in neuronal processes (marginal and intermediary zone) vacuolation and structural wastage of these processes are detected. Moderate chronic alcohol intake leads to persistent ultrastructural changes in the fetal and newborn neocortex which may contribute to the appearance of some neuro psychical and behavioral symptoms in alcohol embryo- and fetopathy. The possible pathogenetic pathways leading to the pathological changes detected are discussed. PMID- 2524655 TI - Bone marrow biopsy (BMB). I. Generalities, material and method, normal structure of bone marrow, pathological conditions. AB - The authors presented in their first note generalities concerning the normal and pathological structure of bone marrow (BM), based on their personal experience (1,500 BMB) and on the literature. A short historical survey and the adopted research method are presented. The advantage of Burkhardt's myelotomy with its technical process by embedding in synthetic resins to avoid decalcification are discussed. The authors have used Jamshidi's cannula (or some other similar needle) with the subsequent embedding in paraffin after decalcification. Further papers will analyse the approach, by BMB, of the myeloproliferative disorders, myelodysplasia, lymphomas and Hodgkin's disease, cancer metastases and medullar aplasia. PMID- 2524656 TI - [Ultrastructural aspects in colorectal adenocarcinoma]. PMID- 2524657 TI - Leiomyoblastoma of the lesser omentum sac. A case report. AB - Localization of primary solid tumors on the omentum is rare and of leiomyoblastoma exceptional. A 57-year-old patient presented on the omentum an encapsulated, lumpy tumoral formation, 9 x 4.5 x 2.5 cm, with whitish-grey and hemorrhagic cystic zones. Predominant histopathologically were images of leiomyoblastoma infiltrated with fascicular and pleomorphic zones, recent thrombosis and hemorrhage. The postoperative evolution was satisfactory after three years. PMID- 2524658 TI - Morphometric studies on melanocytic tumors. AB - The authors have studied the longest and the shortest nuclear axes, the ratio between nuclear axes, the nuclear areas and the mitotic indices in melanocytic tumors and have noted progressive changes of the values in superficial spreading and in nodular melanoma as compared to nevi. The most powerful discriminants were the mitotic index and the ratio between the nuclear axes. These findings are discussed in relationship with the tumor progression. PMID- 2524660 TI - The action of the collagen-Fe2+ complex at tissular level. AB - The aim of this paper is to know the iron dynamics and action of the collagen Fe2+ complex at tissular level. The results showed that the collagen-Fe2+ complex is biocompatible at tissular level and the ferrous iron entered the animal organism on the well-known metabolic pathways. When a high dose of the complex was administered, an overloading with hemosiderin of macrophages and hepatocytes was noticed. PMID- 2524661 TI - [Quinacrine-positive structures in the mesenteric vascular region in the rat]. PMID- 2524659 TI - Changes of the respiratory coefficient in cultures of rat liver cells. AB - The increase of oxygen consumption in liver cell cultures in medium 199 with addition of serum or of regenerative liver extract pleads for the existence of a factor stimulating energy-dependent processes (mitoses, protein synthesis), which is active both in vivo and in vitro. This stimulating factor is of liver origin, but with systemic offer. The concentration of the stimulating factor, which is the highest 3 days after operation, decreases as the normal liver cell population is re-established. The stimulating factor shows a limited specificity for tissues with epithelial structure and in vivo increased mitotic index the leukocytes being reactive only to very high concentrations of this factor. An optimal concentration of the stimulating factor exists which induces the more marked increase of oxygen consumption. PMID- 2524662 TI - Use of phi X174 as a shuttle vector for the study of in vivo mammalian mutagenesis. AB - The most promising new techniques for the study of in vivo mammalian mutagenesis make use of transgenic mice carrying a recoverable vector. Mutation systems in mammals can be based on the selection of altered phenotypes among cells sampled from the whole animal, but they are then limited to the very few cell types in which the marker gene is expressed. Such systems require both in vivo and in vitro cell proliferation for expression and verification of the mutations. To avoid these complications, the study of mutations in most tissues must be based on the detection of genetic alterations in a vector that is independent of the phenotype of the mammalian cell. The vector is only a small portion of the mammalian genome, and many of the procedures for recovering the vector are inhibited by the host DNA. For this reason, partial purification is necessary. The purification is made possible by using vectors which are not cut by restriction enzymes that cut the host DNA to pieces of an average size considerably smaller than the vector. The efficiency for measuring mutation frequencies depends on the number of vectors which can be recovered from a certain amount of DNA and is affected by the number of vectors per mammalian genome and the transfection efficiency of the partially-purified vector. In order to avoid selection against or for the spontaneous or induced mutations, the transfection efficiency of the vector from the transformed DNA and of the pure vector DNA should be of the same order of magnitude. Differences in the response to mutagens between the mammalian genome and the procaryotic vector may be expected due to the lack of unique mammalian topographical features in the vectors. Any mutation induction which depends preferentially on these unique features of the mammalian genome may not be detected in a shuttle vector system unless the vector has been engineered or specifically designed to include such topographical characters. The shortcoming of short-term tests that use mutagenicity for predicting human carcinogenicity is usually lack of correlation between mutagenesis in the short-term tests and the corresponding results in carcinogenesis bioassays in mammals. One factor which could contribute to the lack of correlation between the short-term test systems and the bioassays is that we are comparing mutations in totally different genes in different organisms. By using the phi X174 shuttle system, one of the variables may be eliminated.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2524663 TI - Population surveillance of sentinel anomalies. AB - Three types of indicator conditions, namely sentinel anomalies, Down syndrome and pair-wise evaluation of component congenital anomalies in unidentified multiple congenital abnormalities, are evaluated continuously in Hungary. This paper summarizes some data of the Hungarian Surveillance of Sentinel Anomalies (1980 1987). The observed rate of 15 sentinel anomalies was 3.7 per 10,000 live births. An average of 35 new mutations per 100,000 live births was found annually. This database is appropriate for the estimation of mutation rates in these sentinel anomalies. The mean maternal age did not differ significantly in comparisons of either sporadic vs. familial cases or sporadic vs. matched control cases. However, the mean paternal age was significantly higher in the sporadic cases than in the familial and matched control cases. The analysis of environmental histories in sporadic cases is in progress. PMID- 2524664 TI - Scanning electron microscopy of teased intrafusal muscle fibers from rat muscle spindles. AB - Scanning electron microscopic (SEM) studies on intrafusal muscle fibers and their various sensory and motor endings are not available thus far although SEM greatly increases the resolution power for analyzing surface structures in comparison to light microscopic preparations. From a total of 68 isolated muscle spindles in lumbrical muscles of Wistar rats, only one primary sensory ending could be isolated. Secondary sensory endings were of an annulospiral, a flat, cuff-shaped, or a more complicated branched type; they were always completely surrounding intrafusal muscle fibers. Motor terminals were more focally arranged not surrounding the muscle fibers. Three types could be distinguished. Collagen fibrils were seen to insert on capsular elements as well as on the surface of intrafusal muscle fibers. Thus SEM helps understanding the most complicated electromechanical system for motor control. PMID- 2524665 TI - The isolation, by differential antibody screening, of Echinococcus multilocularis antigen gene clones with potential for immunodiagnosis. AB - A lambda gt11 cDNA expression library consisting of a million recombinant clones has been constructed from Echinococcus multilocularis protoscolex mRNA. Differential screening of the library with pools of E. multilocularis and Echinococcus granulosus human infection sera has revealed 13 potentially immunodiagnostic clones. On the basis of plaque immunoassays and lysogen characteristics, two of these clones, designated EM2 and EM4, have been further characterised. The recombinant fusion-peptides have been purified and their potential as immunodiagnostic reagents has been assessed by immunoblotting and, in the case of one fusion-peptide (EM4), by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Furthermore, the native parasite antigens coded for by these clones have been identified. EM2 corresponds to a 70 kDa protein and epitopes coded for by EM4 have been found on three antigens of 62, 49 and 44 kDa. The native antigens of both clones are present in the protoscolex and those corresponding to EM4 appear to be excreted/secreted products. They are not recognised in ELISA by a variety of human parasitic infection sera other than sera taken from patients infected with E. multilocularis. Nevertheless, the native antigens for both clones are present in E. granulosus protoscoleces and Taenia solium cysticerci. These antigens are not detectable in E. granulosus cyst fluid, and this may, in part, explain the lack of immune response to them in human E. granulosus and T. solium infections. PMID- 2524666 TI - Lipoprotein(a) modulation of endothelial cell surface fibrinolysis and its potential role in atherosclerosis. AB - Endothelial cells play a critical role in thromboregulation by virtue of a surface-connected fibrinolytic system. Cultured endothelial cells synthesize and secrete tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA) which can bind to at least two discrete sites on the cell surface. These binding sites preserve the catalytic activity of t-PA and protect it from its physiological inhibitor (PAI-1). N terminal glutamic acid plasminogen (Glu-PLG), the main circulating fibrinolytic zymogen, also interacts specifically with the endothelial cell surface. Binding is associated with a 12-fold increase in catalytic efficiency of plasmin generation by t-PA which may reflect conversion of Glu-PLG to its plasmin modified form, N-terminal lysine plasminogen (Lys-PLG). Lipoprotein(a) is an atherogenic lipoprotein particle which contains the plasminogen-like apolipoprotein(a) bound to low density lipoprotein. We report here that lipoprotein(a) interferes with endothelial cell fibrinolysis by inhibiting plasminogen binding and hence plasmin generation. In addition, we demonstrate lipoprotein(a) accumulation in atherosclerotic lesions. These findings may provide a link between impaired cell surface fibrinolysis and progressive atherosclerosis. PMID- 2524667 TI - Independent transfer of mitochondrial plasmids in Neurospora crassa. AB - In the ascomycete fungus Neurospora, the distribution of homologous mitochondrial plasmid DNAs in different species and among mitochondrial types of N. crassa suggests that these molecules have moved between lineages of clonally propagated mtDNA. Here we report direct evidence for independent inheritance of mitochondrial plasmids by sexual reproduction which may help explain the distribution of these molecules among mitochondrial lineages. PMID- 2524668 TI - Interleukin-2 production used to detect antigenic peptide recognition by T-helper lymphocytes from asymptomatic HIV-seropositive individuals. AB - T lymphocytes from mice and healthy humans immunized against the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) envelope have recently been shown to recognize two antigenic regions of the gp160 HIV-envelope protein which have been located on the basis of amphipathicity. In HIV-infected humans, T-cell proliferative responses are lost soon after infection. Here we demonstrate that interleukin-2 production is often retained even when proliferative activity is absent, and that it can be used to monitor T-helper cell responses by HIV-seropositive donors. We use this approach to investigate the T-helper cell response of 42 asymptomatic HIV-seropositive patients to four synthetic gp160 peptides and to influenza A virus, an antigen requiring intact CD4 T-helper cell function. As many as 67% of the HIV-seropositive donors who retain responsiveness to influenza A virus respond to a single peptide, and 85-90% responded to at least one of the peptides. PMID- 2524669 TI - Location of high affinity Ca2+-binding sites within the predicted transmembrane domain of the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase. AB - Cation pumps bind and translocate ions with the intermediate formation of a phosphoenzyme. In spite of extensive knowledge of the primary and even secondary structures of several of these cation transport enzymes, however, no high affinity cation binding sites have yet been determined. Here we report the use of oligonucleotide-directed, site-specific mutagenesis to identify the amino acids involved in Ca2+ binding in one of these transport enzymes, the Ca2+-ATPase of sarcoplasmic reticulum. Alteration of Glu 309, Glu 771, Asn 796, Thr 799, Asp 800 or Glu 908, each of which is predicted to lie near the centre of the transmembrane domain in putative transmembrane sequences M4, M5, M6 and M8 resulted in complete loss of Ca2+ transport function and of Ca2+-dependent phosphorylation of the enzyme by ATP. Phosphorylation of each of the mutant enzymes with inorganic phosphate was observed, however, even in the presence of Ca2+, which inhibits phosphorylation in the wild-type enzyme possessing an intact high affinity Ca2+-binding site. These results suggest that at least six polar, oxygen-containing residues lying near the centre of the transmembrane domain provide ligands for one or both of the two high affinity Ca2+ binding sites in the Ca2+-ATPase. PMID- 2524670 TI - [Terminal kidney insufficiency caused by disseminated cholesterol emboli as a complication of intra-arterial manipulation]. AB - Following a renal PTA a 63-year-old man developed a multisystem illness caused by disseminated cholesterol embolism. The clinical manifestations were changing myalgia, peripheral ischaemia, livedo reticularis, episodic hypertension, eosinophilia and rapidly progressive renal insufficiency. The diagnosis was made on the clinical picture and confirmed by skin biopsy. Ultimately, chronic intermittent haemodialysis was necessary. There is no specific treatment available for this disease. It is possible that this complication occurs more frequently, but often remains subclinical. PMID- 2524671 TI - Know your pelvic floor. PMID- 2524672 TI - [Role of the serotoninergic system in inhibiting the jaw-opening reflex induced by stimulation of the central gray matter of the midbrain]. AB - Effect exerted by stimulation of the central grey matter (CGM) of the midbrain and nucleus raphe dorsalis (nRD) by a short train of stimuli (20) followed with the rate of 400/s on the high-threshold jaw-opening reflex (HJOR) evoked by electrical irritation of the tooth pulp was studied during serotonin synthesis blockade after parachlorphenylalanine (pCPA) administration (300 mg/kg intraperitoneally) in awake cats. It was found that the inhibitory effect of the CGM and nRD stimulation on HJOR decreased 24 hours after the pCPA injection. Inhibition of HJOR induced by CGM and nRD stimulation became minimal 96 hours after the pCPA administration: reflex magnitude decreased only by 33% and duration of inhibition was 200-250 ms. Conclusion is made about serotonin participation in HJOR depression induced by CGM and nRD stimulation. The possible participation of other neuromodulators in such inhibition is discussed. PMID- 2524673 TI - Cellular and humoral immunity in various cohorts of male homosexuals in relation to infection with human immunodeficiency virus. AB - The relationship between infection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and various immunological parameters was studied in: (a) healthy controls; (b) homosexual individuals from the AIDS risk group without anti-HIV antibodies; (c) idem, but with anti-HIV antibodies; (d) patients with persistent generalized lymphadenopathy (PGL); (e) patients with AIDS-related syndrome; (f) patients with AIDS and opportunistic infections. In each group, consisting of 15-20 individuals, the following parameters were studied: absolute numbers of CD4+ and CD8+ cells; ratio CD4+/CD8+; cellular immune responses as measured in vivo by delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) and in vitro; and antibody response in vivo after immunization with a low dose of keyhole limpet haemocyanin. Healthy HIV antibody-positive individuals and patients with persistent generalized lymphadenopathy already showed a decreased CD4+/CD8+ ratio, mainly due to an increase in the number of CD8+ cells. The ratio in the AIDS-related syndrome and AIDS groups was even lower, but this was now due to low numbers of CD4+ cells while the number of CD8+ cells was normal. The lymphocyte proliferative response was low in the HIV antibody-positive group, normal in the group with persistent generalized lymphadenopathy and profoundly decreased in the AIDS-related syndrome and AIDS groups. DTH was enhanced in the PGL group and diminished in both ARC and AIDS. Compared to healthy controls, the antibody response upon immunization with a low dose of keyhole limpet haemocyanin was depressed (although not absent) in all groups studied, even in HIV antibody-negative homosexuals. In the HIV antibody-positive group, the severity of the impairment of the various parameters of immunocompetence was not related to the presence of HIV antigenaemia. PMID- 2524674 TI - Effects of gonadotropin-releasing hormone and its agonists on prolactin secretion from normal and tumorous pituitary cells. AB - Previous studies on the effect of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (LHRH) agonist on prolactin (PRL) secretion from normal and tumorous pituitary cells have not been conclusive as to the mechanism of action of these agonists. In this study the short-term administration of a LHRH agonist did not affect circulating PRL levels, but depleted the PRL content of the pituitary gland by 24, 49 and 73% after 2, 3 and 4 days, respectively, in normal female rats and by 75% after 4 days in normal male rats. This effect of the agonist could not be attributed to changes in the sex steroid environment: although plasma 17 beta-estradiol concentrations were significantly suppressed in female rats, circulating testosterone levels had not changed yet in the male rats. Interestingly, the pituitary luteinizing hormone (LH) content was depleted already from day 2 of LHRH agonist administration onwards, while the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) content of the pituitary glands had not changed even after 4 days. Culture studies with pituitary cells from normal adult male and female rats for 4-7 days did not reveal a direct effect of synthetic LHRH or an agonist on PRL release. Chronic systemic administration of a LHRH agonist greatly inhibited the growth of the transplantable PRL-secreting rat pituitary tumor 7315a in female rats, while circulating PRL levels were also suppressed. However, no direct effect of the LHRH agonist was observed on PRL release from a tumor cell clone, derived from the 7315a tumor, and no LHRH-binding sites were detectable on the tumor.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2524675 TI - Release from inflamed tissue of a substance with properties similar to corticotropin-releasing factor. AB - In response to stressors involving tissue injury, pituitary corticotroph secretion of immunoreactive beta-endorphin (iB-END) could be either due to release of hypothalamic factors such as corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) or to release of a tissue factor from the periphery. In the present experiments, we investigated whether inflamed tissue releases a factor which evokes pituitary secretion of iB-END. In an initial experiment, rats with an inflamed hindpaw due to carrageenan injection had significantly greater levels of circulating iB-END as compared to rats with saline-injected paws. Removal of afferent input, by hindlimb denervation, failed to block the carrageenan-induced increase in iB-END levels. Subcutaneous perfusates were then collected from inflamed and control hindlimbs and applied to rat anterior pituitary cell cultures. Pituitary release of iB-END due to administration of perfusate from inflamed paws was significantly greater than iB-END release due to perfusate from saline-injected paws or to basal release. The releasing activity in the perfusates was blocked in calcium free medium and was not due to a direct action of carrageenan, bradykinin, substance P or calcitonin gene-related peptide. The results indicate that inflamed tissue releases a CRF-like factor which stimulates iB-END release both in the denervated rat and cultured pituitary cells. PMID- 2524676 TI - Mechanism of release of beta-endorphin from rat pituitary cells. Role of lipoxygenase products of arachidonic acid. AB - We investigated the effects of metabolites of arachidonic acid on the release of beta-endorphin-like immunoreactivity (beta-end-IR) from rat anterior pituitary cells. Anterior pituitary cells from female rats cultured with arachidonic acid released beta-end-IR in a dose- and time-dependent manner. To determine which metabolites of arachidonic acid stimulated the release of beta-end-IR, we examined the effects of an inhibitor of the cyclooxygenase, indomethacin, and an inhibitor of the 5-lipoxygenase, 2,3,5-trimethyl-6-(12-hydroxy-5,10-dodecadiynyl) 1,4-benzoquinone (AA-861). beta-end-IR release from pituitary cells induced by arachidonic acid was inhibited about 37% by AA-861, but was not affected by indomethacin. Other lipoxygenase inhibitors (eicosatetraynoic and nordihydroguaiaretic acid) also reduced the release of beta-end-IR induced by arachidonic acid. The effects of the 5-lipoxygenase products 5-hydroxy-6,8,11,14 eicosatetraenoic acid (5-HETE) and leukotrienes (LTA4, B4, C4, and D4) on the release of beta-end-IR from rat pituitary cells were also examined. 5-HETE (1-50 microM) elicited a dose-dependent release of beta-end-IR from cultured pituitary cells, and 50 microM 5-HETE induced beta-endorphin release time dependently. LTA4 and LTB4 also significantly stimulated the release of beta-end-IR, but LTC4 and LTD4 had no effect. Other lipoxygenase products (12-hydroxy-5,8,10,14 eicosatetraenoic acid, 12-HETE; 15-hydroxy-5,8,10,14-eicosatetraenoic acid, 15 HETE) were also secretagogues at concentrations of above 1 microM.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2524677 TI - Effect of selective serotonin (5-HT) agonists and 5-HT2 antagonist on prolactin secretion. AB - The present study was undertaken to determine the involvement of serotonergic 5 HT1 and 5-HT2 receptor subtypes in stimulation of the secretion of prolactin. Several 5-HT agonists were administered, in a dose-response fashion, to conscious rats and the effect on the levels of prolactin in plasma was measured. The 5-HT1A + 5-HT1B agonist RU 24969 (5-methoxy-3[1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridin-4-yl]-1H-indole succinate) and the 5-HT1 + 5-HT2 agonist MK-212 (6-chloro-2-[1 piperazinyl]pirazine) increased levels of prolactin in plasma in a dose-dependent manner. In contrast, the selective 5-HT1A agonists 8-OH-DPAT (8-hydroxy-2-[di-n propylamino]tetralin) and ipsapirone (2-[4-[4-(2-pyrimidinyl)-1 piperazinyl]butyl]-1,2-benzisothiazol-3 -(2H) one-1,1-dioxidehydrochloride) did not increase levels of prolactin in plasma at any dose. The 5-HT-releasing drug, fenfluramine, also increased the concentration of prolactin in plasma. Pretreatment with the selective 5-HT2 antagonist, LY53857 (6-methyl-1-[1 methylethyl]ergoline-8-carboxylic acid, 2-hydroxy-1-methyl propyl ester (Z)-2 butenedioate [1:1]), did not significantly diminish an increase in levels of prolactin in plasma, induced by injection of fenfluramine. The antagonist LY53857 inhibited, but did not block the MK-212- and RU 24969-induced increase in the levels of prolactin in plasma. By deduction, these data suggest that 5-HT1B receptors, or as yet undefined 5-HT receptor subtypes may be involved in the stimulation of the secretion of prolactin by endogenously released 5-HT, and that 5-HT2 receptors may play a minor role in the serotonergic regulation of the secretion of prolactin. PMID- 2524678 TI - Clinical-pathologic correlation in Huntington's disease: a neuropsychological and computed tomography study. AB - To examine the premise that cognitive impairment in Huntington's disease (HD) is related to striatal degeneration, we determined those cognitive deficits most closely associated with linear CT indices of brain atrophy in HD. We systematically evaluated 60 drug-free HD patients who were judged to be in stages I (n = 34) or II (n = 26) of illness. All subjects underwent comprehensive neuropsychological assessment covering a broad spectrum of cognitive operations and standardized head CT imaging for determination of frontal horn (FH), intercaudate (CC), and outer-table (OT) distances. We grouped the cognitive test results, based on a principal-component factor analysis, to form factors 1 (complex psychomotor), 2 (verbal memory), 3 (visuospatial), and 4 (general knowledge). Factors 1 and 3 sharply discriminated between subjects in stages I and II of illness. Factors 1, 2, and 3 correlated strongly with CC/OT, an index of caudate atrophy, whereas only factor 2 correlated with FH/OT, an index of frontal atrophy. These data demonstrate that cognitive impairment is a clear-cut characteristic of early HD that is linked closely to the extent of caudate atrophy as measured by CT. PMID- 2524679 TI - A randomized study of carbamazepine versus no medication after a first unprovoked seizure in childhood. AB - We randomized 31 children with a 1st afebrile unprovoked seizure to receive carbamazepine (CBZ) or no medication for 1 year or until the time of a 2nd seizure. All seizures had a focal onset or were generalized tonic-clonic. Overall, 2/14 randomized to CBZ and 9/17 with no medication had a recurrent afebrile seizure. Compliance with CBZ was excellent in 12/14, but noncompliance may have contributed to 1 of the recurrences with CBZ. Four discontinued CBZ because of side effects. Two additional children taking CBZ had a febrile seizure. Thus, only 6/14 taking CBZ had a year completely seizure-free with no unacceptable medication side effects. Of those taking no medication, 2 had a febrile recurrence, and 7/17 had a year completely-seizure free. Side effects and febrile recurrences may limit the value of CBZ for some children, although CBZ appears to reduce significantly recurrences after a 1st afebrile seizure. PMID- 2524680 TI - Comparative effects of haemodialysis and haemofiltration on plasma atrial natriuretic peptide. AB - The effects of 4 h haemodialysis (15 patients) or 4 h haemofiltration (five patients) on plasma concentrations of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) were compared by means of a sensitive radioreceptor binding assay, and related to accompanying changes in body weight, blood pressure and plasma renin activity. Before dialysis, plasma ANP concentrations were considerably elevated: haemodialysis group 10-484 pmol/l (mean 156 pmol/l); haemofiltration group 72-320 pmol/l (mean 170 pmol/l). Although plasma concentrations of ANP fell markedly with treatment in both groups: post-haemodialysis 2-187 pmol/l (mean 67 pmol/l); post-haemofiltration 47-135 pmol/l (mean 79 pmol/l), after treatment it remained above the normal range in 14 of the 20 patients. Pretreatment plasma ANP was related to systolic blood pressure (r = 0.459; P less than 0.05) but bore no relationship to mean or diastolic blood pressure, or plasma renin activity. The fall in plasma ANP concentration during treatment correlated with the postural blood pressure drop after dialysis (r = 0.505; P less than 0.05), but was unrelated to changes in weight or plasma renin activity with haemodialysis or haemofiltration. Plasma ANP concentrations rose rapidly again in the 60 min after dialysis treatment, without change in body weight. These results show that high levels of biologically active ANP circulate in end-stage renal disease. The fact that these are not reduced to normal by haemodialysis or haemofiltration, despite restoration to normovolaemic or hypovolaemic state, suggests that the increased levels of ANP in end-stage renal failure are due to both hypervolaemia and other factors, which may include occult cardiac dysfunction and loss of renal clearance. PMID- 2524681 TI - Striatal D1 dopamine receptor density fluctuates during the rat estrous cycle. AB - Striatal D1 dopamine (DA) antagonist binding sites were investigated in intact female and male rats, ovariectomized (OVX) animals and during the 4-day estrous cycle. The affinity of the striatal D1 receptor as labelled with [3H]SCH 23390 remains unchanged in intact male, female rats during the estrous cycle and OVX animals. By contrast, ovariectomy decreased striatal D1 receptor density by 17% (P less than 0.01) compared to intact female rats while a small but significant higher density was observed in intact male compared to female rats (10% higher, P less than 0.05). The density of striatal D1 DA receptor was higher on the day of diestrus I (DI) and diestrus II (DII) (P less than 0.01 vs OVX) and fluctuates throughout the estrous cycle with a maximum on the day of DII (P less than 0.05 vs proestrus PM). Our results show for the first time that striatal D1 DA receptors fluctuate during the estrous cycle and can be modulated by gonadal steroids. PMID- 2524682 TI - Uptake of heterocyclic amines, Trp-P-1 and Trp-P-2, into clonal rat pheochromocytoma PC12h cells by dopamine uptake system. AB - Heterocyclic amines, 3-amino-1,4-dimethyl-5H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Trp-P-1) and 3 amino-1-methyl-5H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Trp-P-2), are known to be produced in food by cooking and are carcinogenic. These amines were found to be accumulated in clonal rat pheochromocytoma PC12h cells and to reduce enzyme activity related to catecholamine synthesis. The mechanism of uptake of these heterocyclic amines into PC12h cells was studied. The uptake was dependent on the incubation time, the amount of the cells, and the concentrations of Trp-P-1 and Trp-P-2 in the incubation mixture. The uptake of these amines was saturable with their concentrations, and the uptake velocity followed the Michaelis-Menten equation, indicating that the uptake was mediated by a transporting protein. The uptake was inhibited by dopamine and serotonin, but not by noradrenaline. Involvement of the dopamine uptake system in uptake of the heterocyclic amines was further indicated by the fact that nomifensine and mazindol, specific inhibitors of dopamine uptake, reduced the uptake, but sulpiride, an antagonist of D2 receptor, did not. The significance of the uptake of the carcinogenic heterocyclic amines was discussed in relation to their possible neurotoxicity in the human brain. PMID- 2524683 TI - Diabetic patients. Choosing and using helpful aids. PMID- 2524684 TI - Comparison of cyproterone acetate and danazol in the treatment of pelvic pain associated with endometriosis. AB - Twenty-three patients with laparoscopically diagnosed endometriosis and pelvic pain were allocated randomly to treatment with cyproterone acetate 27 mg plus ethinyl estradiol 0.035 mg/day (11 patients) or danazol 600 mg/day (12 patients). All women received treatment for 6 months, except for one in the cyproterone group who suspended treatment for nonmedical reasons and was excluded from analysis of the results. The clinical condition and pain symptoms were monitored in all patients for 1 year after treatment suspension. The intensity of pelvic pain at diagnosis, during treatment, and at follow-up was evaluated by a multidimensional verbal score and an analogue scale. At the end of treatment, a repeat laparoscopy was performed in those patients who agreed (four in the cyproterone group, five in the danazol group); the results showed a partial regression of endometriotic lesions in both groups, with no significant differences between them. Dysmenorrhea disappeared in all patients during treatment. At 6 months after suspension, dysmenorrhea recurred in 66% of the cyproterone group and 58% of the danazol group, and at 1 year in 89 and 92%, respectively. Intermenstrual pelvic pain improved markedly during treatment in both groups; 6 months after treatment withdrawal it was present in four cyproterone subjects and four danazol group patients, whereas after 1 year, only one woman in the danazol group did not have this symptom. Deep dyspareunia was less affected by treatment, and 6 months later had recurred in all the women.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2524685 TI - Hepatitis B: nurses at risk. PMID- 2524686 TI - [Environment, knowledge and preventive medicine. 1. The ecotoxicologic system model]. AB - Especially in the area of public health organisations are many questions about the medical valuation of environmental pollutions. Now the complicated coherences between environment and health contains great problems on scientific investigations. With the aid of an ecological model of environmental systems it is possible to estimate effects of anthropogene pollutions. The aim is the development of a sufficient health protection program. PMID- 2524687 TI - [Contamination of drinking water with atrazine, simazine and nitrate in the Rastatt, Baden-Baden and Buhl areas]. AB - Drinking water samples taken from public waterworks and private water sources were examined between November 1986 and July 1988 for atrazin and simazin content in the area of the Rastatt Public Health Office and its subsidiary offices in Baden-Baden and Buhl (located in the Federal German Land of Baden-Wurttemberg). The overall result of the examination of 41 samples taken from public waterworks and of 29 samples taken from private water sources showed that the drinking water offered by the public waterworks from reservoirs in areas declared as protected drinking water areas, is generally free from pesticide residues. However, water from private sources must be considered as extremely exposed to risk. Of 29 wells that were tested, only three were free from atrazin and only 5 free from simazin. The nitrate situation can presently be considered as being under control. Limit values have not been exceeded anywhere except for one private well. PMID- 2524688 TI - [The dilemma of listeriosis control by the public health office]. AB - The frequent occurrence of Listeria monocytogenes both superficially and in certain foods requires measures in accordance with the Federal Laws on Communicable Diseases and Safe Foods to study possible sources of the infectious agent and prevention if positive findings are reported. On the other hand, due to good defence mechanisms, the majority of the population are not at great risk. This excludes, however, immunodeficient patients, aged persons and newborn. The Federal Law on Notifiable Diseases requires only the reporting of meningitis and encephalitis as well as of listeriosis in newborn. Hence, Listeria infections with other syndromes are not registered. The some-times relatively long time of incubation and the lack of knowledge on mild and transient forms of listeriosis render the search for sources of such infections rather difficult. This results in a true dilemma. -Thus, it appears at the present to be more important to encourage strongly the producers of Listeria-endangered food, to eliminate the risk by all possible means. This, however, appears to be applicable only in a few food items. Therefore, the consumer should be more thoroughly informed, so that at least for the 'at risk' part of the population any possible danger may be minimised. Particular attention should be paid to impart good knowledge on the possibilities of preventing listeriosis by appropriately efficient methods of food preparation. PMID- 2524689 TI - [Communicable disease control measures in group A streptococcal diseases at community facilities]. AB - Considering the fact that various epidemiological situations in Public Health departments arise everyday life, many different proposals are made for Public Health and sanitary measures, e.g. throat culture, antibiotic treatment and, in particular, readmission to community institutions. PMID- 2524690 TI - [Regional differences in the utilization of early cancer screening 1985]. AB - Analysis of attendance of the German Cancer Screening Programme according to sex, age and federal state ("Land") reveals noticeable regional differences whereas in general participation is decreasing. It is shown that attendance is above average in the city states, Hesse, and Baden-Wurttemberg. The remaining Lander should, therefore, improve their rates. A decline in preventive activities and a reluctant attitude towards cancer screening must be taken seriously and be considered when developing the programme further. PMID- 2524691 TI - A critical analysis of the relationship between parental smoking and pulmonary performance in children. AB - To date, at least 24 epidemiologic research papers, of essentially similar design, have been published on the effects of current or lifetime parental smoking on pulmonary function parameters in children. In these studies, parental smoking and other data obtained from standardized questionnaires and spirometric measurements in children were compared statistically according to the smoking status of the parents. A survey of these reports reveals a number of inconsistencies in the association between parental smoking status and pulmonary function parameters (FEV1 or FEV0.75, FEF25-75, FVC, and Vmax50%) in the child. A number of factors should be considered when interpreting the results of these studies, particularly in light of the observed inconsistencies and the fact that children were classified solely on the basis of questionnaire data. Among these are sources of misclassification bias, which could either underestimate or overestimate parental smoking effect, socioeconomic status, other variables, and genetic factors. Also, effects of maternal smoking in utero or on lactation, as well as exposure of the child to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS), need to be considered as possible causes of any apparent decrement in pulmonary function in children. PMID- 2524692 TI - [Expert assessment of neuropsychiatric symptoms in HIV-infected patients]. AB - Expertising on HIV-infected patients will become more frequent in future. These can be suffering - besides already existing mental disturbances - from further health disturbances of reactive and cerebro-organic origin caused by the HIV infection. Expertising requires extensive diagnostic exploration especially for clearly defining and delineating signs and symptoms of mental and cerebro-organic origin. The final verdict depends on the neuropsychiatric pattern of signs and symptoms and on the results of the additional rexaminations. PMID- 2524693 TI - [AIDS in Tanzania. Current status of knowledge on the incidence, presumable risk factors and clinical aspects]. AB - The epidemic became apparent in Tanzania in 1983. Ever since, case reporting seems to point at a dynamic progression of HIV-spread. In Tanzania HIV seems to be transmitted predominantly by heterosexual contact, transplacentally, by blood transfusions and possibly by traditional rituals. HIV-antibody screening is scarce throughout the country. According to epidemiological and sociomedical data available this paper tries to work out possible data on disease distribution and spread, risk factors and possible cofactors. Clinical and sociomedical aspects from 100 AIDS cases are presented. A national AIDS Control plan exists, however, chronic lack of facilities and trained manpower on almost all levels make programme implementation hardly possible without massive assistance from outside. PMID- 2524694 TI - [Nutrition survey of adults using a 7-day protocol--a pilot study in the Augsburg MONICA project]. AB - During the MONICA-project nutrition as one factor for the development of coronary heart disease is examinated. The individual intake of total energy, of fat including saturated and unsaturated fatty acids-and of alcohol should be determined. This pilot study was done before the first cohort study within the MONICA-project Augsburg. The nutritional data were collected from february to march 1984 with the 7-day-dairy-record-method. 65 of totally 112 received records were suitable for evaluation by the computer program KALI (version 2.1.4). The 35 male persons had an average energy intake of 2.677 kcal/day. The average daily energy intake of the 30 female persons decreased with age. The main energy source for all persons is fat. Five women and eight men have an average intake of more than 500 mg cholesterol/day. Estimations of the intake of fatty acids were not possible, because of the specification of the computer program. Carbohydrates supply about 36% in men and 40% in women of the total energy, protein about 13% and 16% respectively. Men are drinking about 44 g alcohol/day. This is distinctly more than women do. Womens daily intake of vitamin B1, vitamin B6 and iron was lower than the recommendations of the German Nutrition Society. It's the same with vitamin B6 for men. PMID- 2524695 TI - [A high fraction of drug-dependent patients among anonymously detected HIV infected patients in Stuttgart]. AB - A high percentage of intravenous drug addicts was found among HIV-infected individuals who had been detected by anonymous testing from May, 1985, to October, 1988, at the AIDS Counselling Service of the Municipal Health Department in Stuttgart. Among the subjects being seropositive for HIV-1 antibodies, 36.6% were drug abusers, while until October, 1988, only 10.3% of the reported AIDS cases in the Federal Republic of Germany were members of this risk group. On the other hand, only 1.9% of 1.001 individuals who came to the AIDS Counselling Service of the Municipal Health Department in Stuttgart for HIV antibody testing were drug addicts. Our observations show that special information campaigns for young people about the risk of HIV infection by intravenous drug abuse should be intensified. PMID- 2524696 TI - [Hepatitis diseases in health occupations (exemplified by Lower Saxony federal land)]. AB - We analysed the incidence of hepatitis among members of the medical profession (doctors, dental surgeons, nurses and medical assistants) by extracting the relevant figures from the total number of hepatitis cases that had been reported to Lower Saxony Public Health authorities between 1976 and 1986. It was found that the incidence and hence the risk of contracting hepatitis A was two to three times higher in particular for the nursing profession than for the total population and also than for doctors and dental surgeons. Although the incidence of hepatitis B has gone down in recent years, the risk of getting infected is definitely higher for doctors, dentists and nursing staff than it is for the total population. This shows that all necessary precautionary and hygiene measures have not yet been fully observed for the members of professions engaged in health care. All persons active in health have an increased risk of being infected with hepatitis non-A-non-B, compared with the overall population. This enhanced risk of hepatitis A infection for the nursing profession and of hepatitis non-A-non-B infection for all medical staff including doctors and dentists prompts us to demand that these two types of disease should also be included in the list of professional diseases. PMID- 2524697 TI - [Duck bilharziasis in the medical anthropologic perspective. Interview data as a principle for public health control measures]. AB - Trichobilharzia szidati causes a parasitic disease of water fowl that may lead to a badly itching but otherwise harmless dermatitis in man (swimmer's itch). At an outbreak at a small lake in Offenburg that is used for swimming, the state health office as the agency responsible for water quality control assessed the situation from an epiemiological perspective and took protective measures. A medical anthropological field study, employing the techniques of observation and interviews, looked into illness experience, behaviours and attitudes and thus provided an empirical basis for this assessment. PMID- 2524698 TI - [The environment, knowledge and preventive medicine. 2. Reductionism and holism- a dichotomy in thinking]. AB - The usual theories and methods of biological sciences and medicine are of important rank to valuate the potential risks of environmental pollutions. Because in notice of the represented system model the consideration of ecotoxicological processes shows, that a complete assessement of these risks and the effects of environmental pollutions against human health can only be attainable when holostic mode of thinking is integrated. PMID- 2524699 TI - [Reform of the right of power of attorney, guardianship and assistance--draft of the discussion of a nursing care law]. AB - The Federal Minister of Justice has published a "Bill of a Care and Assistance Law" (Betreuungsgesetz) which has been elaborated by a an independent, interdisciplinary team of experts. The new law which is intended to replace the old law on guardianship and tutelage set into force in 1900 is actually widely discussed among politicians, lawyers, medical doctors and other people who are concerned. PMID- 2524700 TI - [A representative study of the scope and structure of faulty admissions of acute hospital patients over 60 years of age]. AB - The extent and the structure of inappropriate, i.e. medically unnecessary hospital utilisation by patients of 60 years of age and over, in German acute hospitals were assessed by reviewing a randomised sample of medical records judged by physicians. This rating method was tested, standardised and evaluated. The most important result of the study was that the mean length of story was 17.4 days of which 2.9 days (17%) were estimated to be inappropriately used. If this result is projected to all West German hospitals, 35,000 hospital beds are inappropriately occupied by patients over 60 years of age for a total of 10.5 million patient days per year. PMID- 2524701 TI - [Follow-up in determining of blood lead levels in children, adolescents and adults in the Rastatt heavy metal pollution area]. AB - A study was conducted in 1981 and again in 1984 to determine the amount of lead and cadmium contamination of the population in the industrial area of Rastatt in the Land of Baden-Wurttemberg, W. Germany. 522 persons were analysed, including 91 children and adolescents between 1 and 18 year of age. A general threat to the population by lead and cadmium could be excluded. The factory suspected of being responsible for the environmental contamination has since stopped production. In 5 children from the centre of the studied area we found enhanced blood lead levels but there were no signs of any clinically relevant disease. Four of these children were followed up regularly from 1984 onwards. A control checkup at the end of 1988 showed that there was a trend towards reduction of the blood lead levels. These levels did not show anything abnormal in the remaining 22 persons subjected to the checkup. PMID- 2524702 TI - [Simplified monitoring of the drinking water supply using electronic data processing]. AB - A documentation system was set up at the Wiesbaden Public Health Office using a personal computer to monitor individual drinking water supply plant. The data sets of the databank, the relevant recording codes and the possibilities of data recovery are presented. The conditions governing such a system are described. PMID- 2524703 TI - [A check list for monitoring facilities within the scope of federal legislation for the prevention of blood contact infections]. AB - Federal German Land legislation on the prevention of blood contact infections (legislation on hygiene) now also enforced in the Rhineland-palatinate (Rheinland Pfalz) deals with relevant hygienic prerequisities for instalations and equipment that can be involved in spreading diseases which can be transmitted by blood. This legislation, however, does not apply to medical and dental practices and consulting rooms as far as the Rhineland-Palatinate is concerned. A check list is presented which can be used for controlling the relevant equipment and installations. PMID- 2524704 TI - [Who feels threatened by AIDS?]. PMID- 2524705 TI - Secretary back syndrome. AB - Secretary Back Syndrome, the title appropriate and descriptive, the concept original and useful, describes an intermittent, recurrent, symmetrical low-back pain induced by swivel-chair exposure. The swivel chair, by its very mechanical nature, frequently invites poor posture, causing a symmetrical, recurrent, lumbo sacral strain. Swivel-chair exposure, transiency and recurrence of low-back pain, i.e. weekend and vacation recovery, physical finding of symmetrical low-back tenderness and spasm, and relatively unremarkable X-ray findings, all serve to support the above stated syndrome. The treatment requires abstinence of swivel chair exposure, an obvious, to-date, hidden occupational hazard, and a switch to the time-honored stationary chair in order to affect a total and permanent recovery. Secretary Back Syndrome is a valuable diagnostic concept if appropriately suspected and included in the differential diagnosis and treatment of low-back pain. PMID- 2524706 TI - Acyclovir-resistant, foscarnet-sensitive oral herpes simplex type 2 lesion in a patient with AIDS. AB - We report the case of an immunocompromised patient with AIDS in whom developed a perioral and several intraoral HSV 2 lesions that persisted for more than 1 year. The virus was resistant to acyclovir but was sensitive to foscarnet. Viral isolates were thymidine kinase negative. The lesions resolved with intravenous foscarnet therapy given over a 15-week period, and when last seen, 8 months after foscarnet was discontinued, the patient had not had a recurrence. PMID- 2524707 TI - Augmentative communication considerations in pediatric otolaryngology. AB - The authors review the alternative or augmentative communication approaches that are traditionally coordinated by the otolaryngologist. They also introduce the otolaryngologist to recent developments in services for the individual who is nonspeaking. PMID- 2524708 TI - [Psychosocial adjustment of the handicapped child--possibilities and problems of rehabilitation]. AB - A successful childhood is to be striven after particularly for a handicapped child. Habilitation and rehabilitation, only carefully adapted to one another referring to medical specialties in colaboration with the family, may rise to the demand of the individuality of every one handicapped child. On prior conditions children with chiefly physical handicaps may be integrated into the polytechnical secondary school providing general education in the home town. The total-body examination of these children remains to be the basis for all paediatric actions. PMID- 2524709 TI - [Multi-handicapped blind children]. AB - In Magdeburg on the key day of the 31st of December 1983 73 children at 1 to 16 years of age have been registered to be blind or suspected to be blind. Nearly half of them (n = 38) is multiply injured, that means, besides blindness they show another relevant organic affection. A central position in the causes of blindness in multiply impaired children hold the retrolental fibroplasia, the intensive myopia, and the amblyopia (mostly temporary diagnosis). Mental and physical retardation of premature infants respectively debility are the most frequent diagnoses of the secondary disease. We can't explain the increase respectively the decrease of multiple damages in blind children but merely refer to the high number of multiply impaired blind children among blind ones. PMID- 2524710 TI - Respiratory effects of epidural morphine and sufentanil in the absence and presence of chlordiazepoxide. AB - The experiments determined the ventilatory effects of epidurally injected morphine and sufentanil in rats in the absence and in the presence of chlordiazepoxide, a drug that may alleviate the effects of stress. Soon after administration of morphine as well as of sufentanil, ventilation was more profoundly depressed when rats had been pretreated with chlordiazepoxide. With chlordiazepoxide, respiratory depression after epidural injection of the longer acting and poorly lipid-soluble morphine could still be observed when analgesic activity had disappeared. The data are explained most parsimoniously by assuming that stress counteracts the respiratory effects of epidural opiates, and that late respiratory depression can occur in as much as the opiate continues to act at points of time when the effects of stress have disappeared. PMID- 2524712 TI - Perception of disability in chronic back pain patients: a long-term follow-up. AB - Long-term outcomes for 300 chronic back pain patients were assessed retrospectively by a telephone follow-up 4-6 years after the patients were evaluated by a multi-disciplinary rehabilitative program. A Perception of Disability scale, developed to rate subjective disability, was used along with objective measures of functioning. On objective measures, 56% of patients reported themselves working or work ready, 58% no longer received compensation, 62% were taking no prescription medications and 65% had no or brief medical treatment since evaluations. Perceived disability, however, suggested a bleaker outcome picture with only 29% of patients perceiving themselves as improving. There was a strong relationship between perceived disability and objective circumstances with 63% of the patients unable to work and 61% still on disability payments reporting their disability as increasing. Of the 48 patients reporting back surgery at some point after evaluation only 17% perceived themselves as improved while 58% considered themselves worse. These results are discussed in the context of the development of pain focussed lifestyles. PMID- 2524711 TI - Electromyographic recordings of 5 types of low back pain subjects and non-pain controls in different positions. AB - Surface EMG recordings of bilateral paraspinal muscle tension were measured on 207 subjects (29 non-back pain controls, 20 individuals with spondyloarthritis, 52 with intervertebral disk disorders, 66 with unspecified musculoskeletal backache, 17 with some combination of the above 3 groups and 23 subjects with other types of back pain, including unknown, scoliosis and psychogenic) in 6 positions: standing, bending from the waist, rising, sitting with back unsupported, sitting with back supported and prone. Results of both individual and group analyses revealed a significant main effect of diagnosis. Post hoc analyses (Duncan's) revealed controls to have significantly lower overall EMG levels than the intervertebral disk disorders and unspecified musculoskeletal backache groups. A significant diagnosis by position interaction was observed. Analysis of simple main effects revealed this to be due primarily to control subjects during the standing position having lower EMG levels than all other groups, and intervertebral disk disorder subjects having higher EMG levels than all other groups during the supported sitting position. The importance of clearly defined diagnostic categories in low back pain research and the utility of measuring subjects in various positions are discussed. PMID- 2524713 TI - Pain coping strategies in a Dutch population of chronic low back pain patients. AB - The use of strategies for coping with chronic pain was assessed by means of the Coping Strategy Questionnaire (CSQ) in a Dutch sample of 108 chronic low back pain (LBP) patients referred for behavioral treatment. The 3 factors of the CSQ were related to measurements of behavioral and emotional adjustment to LBP above and beyond the effects of demographic and medical status variables. Especially patients high on the factor Helplessness reported higher levels of pain, functional impairment, anxiety, depression and psychoneuroticism, while patients high on the factor Perceived Control reported lower levels of pain, functional impairment and also manifested a higher level of uptime. The causal role of coping strategies in adjustment to pain, the selectivity of focusing on LBP patients selected through referral and implications for pain management are discussed. PMID- 2524715 TI - Successful treatment of hereditary dominant chorea with carbamazepine. PMID- 2524714 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor during the perinatal period: equal depletion in both atria. AB - Data in the literature concerning atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) physiology in the fetus and newborn, although limited, suggest significant activity during the perinatal period. To characterize further ANF physiology during this time, we documented immunoreactive ANF (IR-ANF) concentrations in the right and left atria before and immediately after birth as well as in the hearts of immature and adult rats. There was a significant decrease in the concentration of IR-ANF in both right and left atria on the d before birth that persisted for the first 48 h of life [d 20 fetal right 570 (106, 90), left 580 (86, 75); d 21 fetal right 270 (70, 55), left 214 (117, 75); 1 d right 206 (39, 33), left 229 (41, 35); 2-d right 352 (35, 32), left 237 (26, 23) [geometric mean (upper SE, lower SE) in ng ANF/mg protein]. Repletion of ANF stores began in the right atrium on d 2 of life and in the left atrium between d 2 and 5. The highest levels of IR-ANF were observed at d 15 [d 5 right 1439 (53,51), left 1547 (83,79); d 15 right 2034 (90,86), left 1943 (108, 102); adult right 1380 (119, 109), left 963 (118, 105)]. In contrast to normal adult animals, factors mediating the observed change affect both atria equally during the perinatal period. The concentration of IR-ANF in the right and left atrium of the fetal, newborn, and immature animals was equal. These data document significant alterations in intraatrial IR-ANF concentrations in the perinatal period.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2524717 TI - [Epidemiology of arterial hypotension in preschool children]. PMID- 2524716 TI - [In memory of Prof. B.R. Apostolov]. PMID- 2524718 TI - [Improving the planning and determining the goal-oriented courses for the advanced training of pediatricians]. PMID- 2524719 TI - [Effectiveness of complex nonspecific protection of preschool children from respiratory viral infections]. PMID- 2524720 TI - [Experience in organizing the activities of the family consultation clinic]. PMID- 2524721 TI - [Improving hospital nephrology services for children in Leningrad]. PMID- 2524722 TI - Effect of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) on nicotinic acetylcholine receptor channels in bovine chromaffin cells. AB - Bovine chromaffin cells have binding sites for rat atrial natriuretic factor (ANF), as demonstrated autoradiographically by using the 125I-labelled peptide. Patch-clamp recording revealed that ANF reduces acetylcholine (ACh)-induced membrane currents in chromaffin cells at physiological membrane potentials. The effect was dose-dependent with the IC50 value being 5.2 microM ANF and the Hill coefficient close to 1. The channel block was absent at positive membrane potentials, indicating a non-competitive interaction of ANF with the open ACh receptor channel. Fragments of ANF had a much less pronounced action, which is possible due to their structure and molecular charge being different to ANF. The block of nicotinic ACh receptor channels may enable ANF to control the secretion of catecholamines from adrenal chromaffin cells. PMID- 2524723 TI - Lambda SK3 and lambda SK5, vectors for constructing genomic libraries derived from lambda EMBL3 and lambda EMBL4 by insertion of lac gene. PMID- 2524725 TI - [Analysis of the effect of behavior training with socially insecure, multi handicapped children]. AB - The article reports about social incompetent children in the age from seven to fourteen years. Social incompetence is assumed to be the leading symptom of such children which is linked to problems in school, concentration disorders, physical restlessness and inferiority feelings. There are no explicit theories about the connections or the reciprocity of occasions between the symptoms which were demonstrated in a comparison between 16 for a therapy announced children. The "Training mit sozial unsicheren Kindern" by Ulrike and Franz Petermann (1989) was practised and effects were tested in a group of three children over a short and over a long period. The results were stable effects about over two years (measured by behavior assessment and reports of the parents), furthermore there was an improvement in other behavior disorders or in coping with these difficulties. The "Training mit sozial unsicheren Kindern" changes effectively behavior disorders of children with multiple symptoms over a long period of time. PMID- 2524724 TI - Hyperprolactinaemia induces a decrease of beta-endorphinergic activity in the hypothalamus. PMID- 2524726 TI - Translocation trisomy 21 in CVS not found in embryoblast: three different cell lines in CVS, amnion- and placental culture. AB - Chorionic villus samples from a healthy pregnant female were obtained for first trimester prenatal diagnosis. A translocation trisomy 21 was diagnosed. A consecutive amniocentesis revealed a normal male karyotype. At term a healthy boy was born. Cytogenetic analysis from cord blood showed a regular karyotype of 46,XY, whereas in term placenta a pathological karyotype of 47,XY, +mar was found. PMID- 2524727 TI - [Role of manometry in the diagnosis of motor disorders of the esophagus]. PMID- 2524728 TI - [Effect of carnitine deficiency on ketogenesis]. PMID- 2524730 TI - [Description of various types of intensive care and continuous monitoring in France]. AB - There are multiple types of intensive care units (ICU), and the purpose of this study was to describe the activity of different ICUs, using the same method. Thirty-eight ICUs were chosen by co-optation rather than by randomization. The data collected concerned inputs (patients), processes (treatments) and outcomes (ICU death rate). The ICUs were divided into three intensive care groups (ICG): M = medical, C = surgical and P = surgical, scheduled or elective. The 3,687 patients studied were classified as: M = 2,175, C = 885 and P = 627. The first part of the results concerned differences between the three ICGs: inputs, processes and outcomes were very different in the M, C and P groups, particularly in the P (elective) group where the therapeutic level was highest for low simplified acute physiology scores (SAPS) and the mortality was lowest for high SAPSs. The second part of the results concerned differences between ICUs. Intermediate units had older, less severe and mainly medical patients. Surgical patients were younger, had a better previous health status and 40 per cent of them were scheduled. Therapeutic intervention scoring system (TISS) points were higher, mainly due to a higher rate of ventilated patients and of patients fitted with pulmonary artery lines on the first day. It is concluded that different intensive care units can be described with the same tools. PMID- 2524729 TI - [Value of X-ray computed tomography of the brain in controlled carotid surgery]. AB - The usefulness of computerized tomography (CT) in elective carotid surgery was evaluated in a prospective study of 402 patients who had a surgical operation on one or two atheromatous arteries and were explored by pre and post-operative CT of the brain. Pre-operative CT scans revealed an ischaemic lesion in 22 per cent of asymptomatic patients and in 29 per cent of patients who had experienced a transient ischaemic accident. Abnormal pre-operative CT scans were associated with a statistically significant increase in per-operative electroencephalographic changes, but there was no significant increase in post operative neurological complications. Post-operative CT scans showed a "silent" infarct in 6 per cent of the cases; 59 per cent of patients with neurological complications had normal or unchanged post-operative CT images. This study suggests that pre-operative CT is not necessary to evaluate the neurological risk and that post-operative CT alone is inadequate to quantify the morbidity of carotid surgery. PMID- 2524731 TI - [Experimental verification of the favorable activity of synthetic corticostimulin on brain edema induced by ischemia in rats]. AB - The anti-oedematous effect of tetracosactide (Synacthene Immediate) was studied on a rat brain transient global ischaemia model. Brain oedema was evaluated by proton nuclear magnetic resonance, with measurement of T1 and T2 relaxation times in the cortex and white matter. The effective kinetic dose of tetracosactide was 0.4 mg/kg, and a comparison of the results obtained with those observed after treatment with dexamethasone 13 mg/kg confirmed that both drugs may be regarded as potent anti-oedematous agents, but there was nothing in this study to suggest that the mechanism of action of tetracosactide was different from that of corticosteroids. PMID- 2524732 TI - [Mixed lympho-epidermal cell cultures: value in bone marrow grafts]. AB - Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is the major complication of allogeneic HLA identical bone marrow transplantation. GVHD is induced by the activation of mature T cells in the graft which react against minor antigens of the recipient. Mixed epidermal cell-lymphocyte cultures (MELC), which constitute an in vitro model of epidermal cell-lymphocyte interactions, make it possible to study the presentation of antigens to the lymphoid cells by epidermal Langerhans cells. We performed MELC in 66 patients who had received an HLA-identical bone marrow transplant for malignant blood disease. The bone marrow received by 29 recipients had been depleted of mature T cells, whereas 37 recipients had received a non depleted bone marrow. A complete, uni- and multivariate statistical analysis was carried out on recipients of non-depleted bone marrow to evaluate the risk factors for acute and chronic GVHD. This study showed that MELC between donor and recipient was the most predictive parameter for the occurrence of GVHD. Other factors were a history of previous pregnancies in female donors and a diagnosis of chronic myelogenous leukaemia. These results may be of value in the selection of donors and for a better determination of the need for bone marrow depletion. PMID- 2524733 TI - [Intractable hiccup caused by hiatal hernia with esophagitis]. PMID- 2524734 TI - [Legionnaires' disease with multivisceral involvement during the treatment of Burkitt's leukemia]. PMID- 2524735 TI - [Antibiotic prophylaxis with a single dose of 1000 mg metronidazole or ornidazole in colorectal surgery]. PMID- 2524737 TI - [Acute gastric ulcer after insertion of an intragastric balloon]. PMID- 2524736 TI - [Fatal hemorrhagic complication of acquired multicystic disease in dialyzed patients]. PMID- 2524738 TI - [Isolation of Borrelia burgdorferi in the cerebrospinal fluid in a patient treated with penicillin]. PMID- 2524739 TI - [Wilson's disease and mucopolysaccharidosis. Association of 2 genetic diseases in the same patient]. PMID- 2524740 TI - [Treatment of acute cardiovascular failure with a new inhibitor of phosphodiesterase III]. PMID- 2524741 TI - [Value of follow-up of neonatal screening by the delivery number. VEDETT system of control of the efficacy of the screening and treatment of the coverage rate]. PMID- 2524742 TI - [Apropos of geophagia]. PMID- 2524743 TI - [Domestic lead poisoning in La Reunion]. PMID- 2524744 TI - [Hyponatremia in psychotic potomaniacs]. PMID- 2524745 TI - [Management of an asymptomatic HIV-seropositive patient. Recommendations of the French League for Prevention of Infectious Diseases]. PMID- 2524747 TI - [Tropical diabetes]. PMID- 2524746 TI - [Modified lipoproteins and atherogenesis]. PMID- 2524748 TI - [Mortality of dilated myocardiopathies as a function of continuation of alcohol drinking. Multivariate analysis concerning 236 patients]. AB - A retrospective study was conducted in 236 consecutive patients with dilated cardiomyopathy to determine the characteristics of the disease in heavy alcohol drinkers (n = 110) and to study its outcome, using a Cox model, according to whether the patients were abstainers (n = 49) or continued to indulge drinking (n = 61). At the time of diagnosis, pulmonary pressures were higher in heavy drinkers than in abstainers. During a mean follow-up period of 39 +/- 27 months, 80 patients died of heart disease, viz.: 46 out of 127 non-alcoholic patients (36.2 per cent), 31 out of 61 heavy drinkers (50.8 per cent) and 3 out of 49 patients who had given up alcohol (6.12 per cent). Thus, independently of other parameters, abstinence is a highly significant (P less than 0.001) factor of favourable prognosis in dilated cardiomyopathy. PMID- 2524749 TI - [Efficacy and tolerance of tiaprofenic acid in pharyngitis in adults. Results of a randomized study vs placebo]. AB - Tiaprofenic acid (Surgam) is a non steroidal anti-inflammatory drug used in France for the treatment of acute inflammation, during episodes of upper respiratory tract infections of children and adults. The efficacy and tolerance of tiaprofenic acid for the treatment of inflammation during adult tonsillitis and pharyngitis were evaluated by a randomized double-blind study versus placebo. We used evaluation criterion taking into consideration dysphagia and inflammatory physical indications of tonsillitis and opinions of investigators and patients. Sixty patients have been included in this study. They received either tiaprofenic acid or placebo during five days together with penicillin V. After 48 hours and 5 days of treatment, the efficacy of tiaprofenic acid was significantly superior to placebo on all principal test studied. Tolerance was good in both groups. PMID- 2524750 TI - [Subcortical dementia syndrome: semiology and physiopathology]. AB - Among the dementia syndromes--that is, disorders of memory associated with a global alteration of cognitive functions sufficient to affect the subject's normal social behaviour--the current trend is to individualize a particular syndrome due to a primary dysfunction of the subcortical structures. The main characteristics of this syndrome are a slowing down of cognitive processes (bradyphrenia), a preferential disturbance of the fundamental processes (memory, motivation, attention, etc.) and a relative preservation of specific functions (speech, praxis, gnosis). Such a syndrome has been described not only in some cases of degeneration of the basal ganglia, but also in other brain diseases, notably vascular diseases, and in severe depressive states. Various recent clinical or fundamental studies have shed some light on the neuronal and neurochemical substrate of the syndrome, thus providing proof of the reality of the subcortical dementia concept which contributes to a better understanding of the relationship between brain and mental functions. PMID- 2524751 TI - [Splenic iconography in Wegener's granulomatosis]. PMID- 2524752 TI - [Tissue complications of cisplatin extravasation]. PMID- 2524753 TI - [Relative bradycardia in anaphylactoid shock]. PMID- 2524754 TI - [Hypothyroidism after treatment with interleukin-2]. PMID- 2524755 TI - [Acute renal insufficiency due to delayed post-transfusional hemolysis with anti C antibodies]. PMID- 2524757 TI - [Peripheral facial paralysis after dental local anesthesia]. PMID- 2524756 TI - [Splenic abscess caused by Salmonella typhi in a child]. PMID- 2524758 TI - [Tuberculous spinal arachnoiditis. Value of intrathecal corticosteroid therapy]. PMID- 2524759 TI - [Fibrinogen and factor VII: 2 risk factors for arterial thrombosis]. PMID- 2524760 TI - [Transluminal coronary angioplasty. The 2d generation]. PMID- 2524761 TI - [Echocardiography in anorexia nervosa]. AB - The echocardiographic parameters of 10 patients with anorexia nervosa were studied at the time of admission and compared with those of 10 matched controls. There was a decrease of ventricular volumes and of the calculated left ventricular mass, but the haemodynamic values at rest showed a normal "pump function". The left ventricular mass correlated with the body mass, which indicates that the heart of anorectic patients is also involved by malnutrition. Two patients had asymptomatic mitral valve prolapse. These results are in agreement with the few published studies which report deep cardiac alterations with decrease of heart cavities volumes and reduction of wall thickness and myocardial mass. This results in altered exercise performance, despite a satisfactory haemodynamic status at rest. The high frequency of mitral valve prolapse due to disproportion between ventricle and valve must be noted. PMID- 2524762 TI - [Survival in primary dilated cardiomyopathy as a function of tobacco smoking. A retrospective study]. AB - In order to determine the influence of tobacco smoking on the course and long term prognosis of idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy, we conducted a retrospective study of 111 patients (95 men and 16 women, mean age 45.5 +/- 8.1 years) who had undergone cardiac catheterization between January 1970 and December 1979 and had been followed up for 6 to 16 years. The criteria of inclusion was diffuse hypokinesia of the left ventricle with an ejection fraction of 50 per cent or less, normal coronary arteriography and cardiomyopathy of unknown origin. The overall mortality rates at 1, 5 and 10 years were 10, 50 and 66 per cent respectively, and the main predictive factor was the left ventricular ejection fraction. Forty-six per cent of these patients were smokers, 19 per cent were non smokers and 35 per cent had undetermined smoking habits. A univariate analysis showed a favourable predictive effect of smoking on survival (P less than 0.01), and this was confirmed by the statistical hypothesis of maximum bias for patients with undetermined smoking habits. On multivariate analysis, this predictive effect was superseded by the left ventricular ejection fraction, but after stratification of the sample according to the mean value of ejection fraction (30 per cent), the predictive value of smoking reappeared clearly in the group with a less than 30 per cent ejection fraction (P less than 0.003). PMID- 2524763 TI - [A simplified method of vaccination against rabies after exposure]. AB - Vaccination against rabies after exposure to the risk of contamination is currently performed according to the WHO recommendations: 6 injections in 6 visits. We have studied the serological effectiveness of a simplified method using the human diploid-cell rabies vaccine: the vaccine is injected subcutaneously at the rate of 2 doses on day 0, then one dose on day 7 and one dose on day 21. Fifty subjects were vaccinated, and antiglycoprotein antibodies were assayed in serum by the immunoenzymatic technique (EU/ml). Seroconversion with titres above 0.5 EU/ml was observed in all subjects. The antibody titres were 0.127 +/- 1.57, 11.31 +/- 8.87, 10.2 +/- 7.55, and the numbers of subjects with protective titres were 0/50, 11/50, 46/47 and 36/37 on days 0, 7, 21 and 90 respectively. No undesirable side-effect was recorded. The good results obtained with this 2+1+1 vaccination schedule (4 injections in 3 visits) suggest that the recommended method of post-exposure vaccination could be replaced by this simplified method. PMID- 2524764 TI - [Treatment of complicated peptic esophagitis. Role of total duodenal diversion]. AB - Total duodenal diversion was performed in 60 patients with reflux oesophagitis complicated by stricture, brachyoesophagus, endobrachyoesophagus or previous oesophago-gastric surgery. The standard operation (truncal vagotomy, antrectomy, 70 cm Roux-en Y anastomosis) was carried out in 41 patients; technical adjustments were necessary in 19 patients previously operated. One patient died of post-operative pulmonary embolism. Lasting cure of the oesophagitis was obtained within less than 3 months in 56/59 patients (93 per cent). Three-hour post-prandial pH measurements showed control of the reflux in 48/52 patients (92 p. 100). Anastomotic ulcers developed in 3 patients who did not have vagotomy. One case of complete remission of endobrachyoesophagus was observed, and 4 cases are now in partial remission. Digestive tract sequelae were found in 9 patients who had undergone surgery, but they were disabling in only one of these. These results suggest that total duodenal diversion is a suitable treatment of complicated reflux oesophagitis. PMID- 2524765 TI - [Riedel's thyroiditis. 3 cases]. AB - Three cases of Riedel's thyroiditis are reported. The clinical presentation varied, with thyroid nodule in 2 cases (associated with cervical lymph node enlargement in 1 case) and compressive goitre with mediastinal involvement in the third case. The histological diagnosis of Riedel's thyroiditis is difficult and was made retrospectively in these 3 patients; it is based on the absence of malignant cells and the presence of fibrosis, inflammatory infiltrates and, inconstantly, vascular lesions of the occlusive phlebitis type. PMID- 2524766 TI - [Central core disease associated with malignant hyperthermia sensitivity]. AB - The authors report the case of a 57-year old woman who was susceptible to malignant hyperthermia (MH) and also had central core disease (CCD) of muscle. The latter was asymptomatic and was discovered when muscle biopsy was performed for in vitro tests of susceptibility to malignant hyperthermia. This case was compared with the 117 cases of CCD and 33 cases of CCD associated with MH published in the literature. Anaesthesia-induced MH is lethal in 80 per cent of the cases without treatment and in 20 per cent with treatment. CCD and MH are both transmitted as autosomal dominant traits. Susceptibility to MH is a functional abnormality of unknown mechanism. CCD is a disease of muscle fibre structure. One may hope that molecular studies and genetic probes will show whether or not these two diseases are transmitted by genes that are similar but distinct and independent. PMID- 2524767 TI - [Role of lipid peroxidation in the formation of atheroma]. AB - The demonstration that lipid peroxidation (enzymatic or non enzymatic oxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids) is involved and plays a pathophysiological role (in relation to the metabolic pathways of prostaglandins, leukotrienes and to others inflammation-related events) in the initiation of arteriosclerotic plaques is a breakthrough in the pathogenesis of atheroma. Macrophages play a central role in this mechanism. Indeed foam cells are macrophages loaded with oxidized low density lipoproteins (LDL). These oxidized LDL are preferentially recognized by macrophages thanks to their scavenger receptor. The role of such foam cells in the initiation and development of atheroma is well known. The formation of arteriosclerotic plaques results in important endothelial alterations, and endothelial cells lose their protective ability to prevent platelet aggregation and related thrombotic events. Inflammation and thrombosis are overlapping phenomena which are mediated by common cells (platelets, polymorphonuclear leucocytes, monocytes, macrophages, endothelial cells). During the activation of such inflammatory cells a number of eicosanoids are produced, and the profile of such metabolites is largely controlled by cellular interactions. In addition these inflammatory cells have the ability to produce oxygen free radicals, and initiate non enzymatic lipid peroxidation. PMID- 2524768 TI - [Optimization of multiple abdominal organ procurement]. AB - Multiple abdominal organ procurement should enable the kidneys, the liver and the whole pancreas to be removed. Simultaneous removal of the liver and pancreas depends on arterial variations. In subjects with one single hepatic artery simultaneous removal of the liver and the whole pancreas is always possible. In subjects with right hepatic artery, the whole pancreas can only be removed if the right hepatic artery and the median hepatic artery can be left to the liver transplanter and if the coeliac trunk, the common hepatic artery, the gastroduodenal artery and the splenic artery can be preserved to feed the pancreas. PMID- 2524769 TI - [Retroperitoneal fibrosis after treatment with bromocriptine]. PMID- 2524770 TI - [Rheumatoid oto-arthritis: a rare cause of deafness]. PMID- 2524771 TI - [Severe involvement of the brachial plexus after intra-arterial chemotherapy]. PMID- 2524772 TI - [Collagenous colitis. Anatomoclinical development]. PMID- 2524773 TI - [Waldentrom's disease associated with papulous amyloidosis]. PMID- 2524774 TI - [Linear IgA dermatosis associated with Hodgkin's disease]. PMID- 2524775 TI - [Microalbuminemia in diabetes]. PMID- 2524776 TI - [Splenic abscess. Treatment by percutaneous drainage]. PMID- 2524777 TI - [Intestinal ulceration in celiac disease in the adult. Value of peroperative enteroscopy]. PMID- 2524778 TI - [Moderate and prolonged increase of transaminases serum activity. Management]. PMID- 2524779 TI - [Recent advances in the clinical study of the renin system. Reference values and conditions of validity]. AB - Plasma renin activity, angiotensinogen, active renin and aldosterone concentrations and, 1 hour after addition of trypsin 1 mg per ml of plasma at -4 degrees C, prorenin and total renin concentrations were measured in 49 normotensive volunteers. Renin activity and active renin concentration were correlated (n = 98, r = 0.902, p less than 0.01) and their ratio was not dependent on the angiotensinogen concentration. Prorenin accounted for 90 per cent of total renin and was 40 per cent higher in males than in females in both supine and upright positions (p = 0.02 and p = 0.01). The change in position markedly increased plasma renin activity as well as active renin and aldosterone concentrations and, to a lesser degree, prorenin concentration, thereby raising the active/total renin ratio. Plasma renin activity, active renin concentration and plasma aldosterone concentration were significantly and negatively correlated with age, but not with urinary sodium excretion. Plasma renin activity and active renin and angiotensinogen concentrations were also measured in 14 patients with high angiotensinogen concentration (pregnant women and oestrogen users) and in 14 patients with cirrhosis and subnormal angiotensinogen concentration. In these patients the ratio of plasma renin activity to active renin concentration was correlated with the angiotensinogen concentration (n = 28, r = 0.643, p less than 0.01). The slope of the regression line between renin activity and active renin concentration was significantly different in patients with cirrhosis and in healthy volunteers, the measurement of renin activity leading to a ten-fold underestimation of active renin concentration. In clinical investigations of the renin system, plasma samples should be handled at room temperature to avoid cryoactivation of prorenin. The determination of active renin concentration should be preferred to that of plasma renin activity because it is not influenced by physiological or pathological variations in angiotensinogen. PMID- 2524780 TI - [Short loss of consciousness: etiology and diagnostic approach. Results of a prospective study]. AB - Transient loss of consciousness is a frequent reason for hospitalization, but very few prospective studies have been devoted to this topic. Our study involved 150 patients who were admitted for sudden and total loss of consciousness (syncope) with spontaneous return to normality. All patients underwent thorough physical examination, standard laboratory tests, electrocardiography (ECG) and radiography of the chest. Depending on the results of this first evaluation, the patients were investigated for postural hypotension and had carotid sinus massage, electroencephalography (EEG), computerized tomography of the brain, cardiac Holter recording, electrophysiological exploration and, if necessary, other special examinations. The cause of the syncope was found in 93 cases (62 per cent); it was cardiac in 39 cases (bradycardia 25, tachycardia 14), vascular in 20 cases (vagal 14, postural hypotension 6), epileptic "grand mal" type in 32 cases and "miscellaneous" in 2 cases. The syncope occurred in a state of acute drunkenness in 14 cases and was unquestionably due to the absorption of medicines in 6 cases. Clinical findings and ECG or EEG provided the aetiological diagnosis in 82.7 per cent of the patients and the other, sophisticated examinations in 17.3 per cent. These results are similar to those of other prospective studies found in the literature. It may be concluded that the causes of the syncope are only found in about 2 out of 3 cases, that clinical data are all-important in the diagnostic approach and that complementary examinations are either unnecessary or yield little that is not already suggested by clinical examination. PMID- 2524781 TI - [Cervical epidural anesthesia in carotid artery surgery]. AB - A series of 394 patients who underwent surgery of the carotid artery under cervical extradural anaesthesia is presented. With this technique the patient remains conscious throughout the operation, which facilitates neurological monitoring. Due to failure or complication, extradural anaesthesia was abandoned and replaced by general anaesthesia in 1.5 per cent of the cases. The mortality rate in this series was 2.3 per cent; in 2 out of 3 cases death was of neurological origin; 21 per cent of the patients had peroperative neurological accidents which, in 9 out of 10 cases, were due to a low cerebral blood flow rate during clamping. Thirty-five intra-arterial shunts (8.9 per cent) were installed, and none of these accidents was permanent. Twenty-five patients (6.3 per cent) had postoperative deficit which did not regress in 12 cases (3 per cent). The risk of peroperative neurological accident was significantly increased in patients with bilateral lesions of the vertebral arteries (x 3.5) or with occlusion of the contralateral carotid artery (x 4.5). Surgery of the carotid artery in conscious patients reveals a high incidence of ischaemic neurological events the reversibility of which is ensured by appropriate therapeutic procedures (arterial shunt, increase of brain perfusion pressure). Patients at risk of neurological accidents may benefit from cervical extradural anaesthesia. PMID- 2524783 TI - [Fulminans hepatitis caused by Amanita phalloides poisoning. An indication for hepatic allotransplantation]. PMID- 2524782 TI - [Kawasaki syndrome]. AB - Recent studies support the hypothesis that Kawasaki disease is due to a hyperimmune vasculitis, probably of infectious origin. In addition, current data highlight the frequency of atypical (oligosymptomatic) aspects of the disease which may not be recognized, thereby worsening its cardiovascular prognosis. The types of cardiac lesions encountered, notably those of the coronary arteries, have now been well established by sequential echocardiographic studies. Several therapeutic trials have confirmed the effectiveness of gammaglobulins (400 mg/kg.day) and acetylsalicylic acid in preventing the formation of coronary aneurysms. These recent advances in the understanding and treatment of Kawasaki disease may lead to a reappraisal of its diagnostic and prognostic criteria and open the way to multiple lines of research. PMID- 2524784 TI - [Circulating anticoagulant in lepromatous leprosy]. PMID- 2524785 TI - [Hyper-reactive malarial splenomegaly in an European returning from Central Africa]. PMID- 2524786 TI - [A complication of adrenal cystic lymphangioma: hemorrhage]. PMID- 2524788 TI - ["False" HIV serology in lupus]. PMID- 2524787 TI - [Echographic measurement of synovial thickening of the hip. Value in evaluating joint disease in dialyzed patients]. PMID- 2524789 TI - [Should left hypochondrium be drained after splenectomy?]. PMID- 2524790 TI - [Prolactin adenoma in pregnancy. Anterior and posterior pituitary deficiency caused by tumor growth and later recovery]. PMID- 2524791 TI - [Bone repercussion in alcoholism]. PMID- 2524792 TI - [Treatment of cancer of the prostate. Role of gonadorelin analogs]. PMID- 2524793 TI - [Treatment of homozygote beta thalassemia in Algiers. A 5-year follow-up of 66 patients]. AB - During the years 1982-1987, 66 patients with homozygous beta-thalassaemia were treated at the blood transfusion centre of Algiers. The patients, aged from 1 to 23 years in 1982, came from 48 families, 30 of which were issued from consanguinous unions. The patients fell into three groups according to the early institution and quality of treatment (blood transfusions, antibiotic therapy, desferrioxamine given when available). The beneficial clinical effects observed (satisfactory growth and development, reduction of splenomegaly and hypersplenism, attenuation of craniofacial malformations, performance at school) seemed to be directly related to the mean haemoglobin level prior to transfusion and to the early institution of treatment. Four patients died of anaemia and haemochromatosis. The incidence of viral contamination was 27.5 per cent for the hepatitis B virus and nil for the human immunodeficiency virus. PMID- 2524794 TI - [Causes of first convulsive seizures in adults. According to age and sex]. AB - In the absence of epidemiological studies, we thought it might be of interest to investigate the relative frequency of first seizures in adults according to age and sex and in comparison with a control population. Our study of 317 patients admitted to hospital a few hours at most after the seizures demonstrated that alcoholism in young adults and vascular pathology in the elderly play an important role in triggering the first seizures, which accounts for the male predominance in epilepsy of the adult. It also showed that the occurrence of first seizures increases with age, especially after 60 years. We found that premonitory symptoms were present in almost one-third of the patients, even when the seizures seemed to be generalized from the start, and that there was a risk of one or several attacks during the hours that followed the first seizures. PMID- 2524795 TI - [Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis. Current concepts after 10 years' experience]. AB - Designed, in contrast with hemodialysis (HD), as a permanent dialysis procedure, CAPD progressively established itself as an accepted mode of therapy of end stage renal disease. About 8 p 100 of the total population currently undergoing renal replacement therapy in France is being treated by CAPD. Important technical advances were made over the last decade. The recent disconnectable systems reduced the rate of peritonitis down to one episode every two to three years of treatment. Loss of ultrafiltration and sclerosing peritonitis can also be efficiently prevented. Maintenance of an adequate nutritional status in the patients remains however an often difficult problem. CAPD is now preferably recommended for young patients awaiting renal transplantation, diabetics, children and also elderly patients provided a satisfactory nutritional status can be maintained over time. Although a randomized study is not practically feasible, it can be stated that HD and CAPD yield similar overall results in comparable groups of patients with end stage renal disease. Long term studies do not show any substantial decrease over time of the permeability and clearance performances of the peritoneal membrane. PMID- 2524797 TI - [Unexplained sudden death of an infant with Bourneville's tuberous sclerosis]. PMID- 2524796 TI - [Technic for implanting biventricular external assistance devices. Pending cardiac transplantation]. AB - The extensive development of orthotopic heart transplantation results in a relative shortage of grafts. When cardiac grafts are unavailable, some patients at the end-stage of decompensated heart failure may benefit from a biventricular external circulatory assistance device as a "bridge" to transplantation. We describe a reproducible technique for the implantation of such external devices, based on the systematic use of extracorporeal circulation. This technique was tested in 8 patients. Its main advantage is that it prevents thromboembolic complications which are a constant threat when the devices are used for a prolonged period. PMID- 2524798 TI - [Static tremor and encephalopathy disclosing Conn's syndrome]. PMID- 2524799 TI - [Meningoradiculitis in the primary phase of HIV infection. Value of plasmapheresis]. PMID- 2524800 TI - [Buckley's syndrome. Efficacy of oral sodium cromoglycate]. PMID- 2524801 TI - [Angiographic coronary arterial lesions after a recent myocardial infarction treated by intravenous thrombolysis]. PMID- 2524803 TI - [Suppuration caused by Corynebacterium I2]. PMID- 2524802 TI - [Muscular toxicity caused by fenofibrate]. PMID- 2524804 TI - [Syphilitic cerebral arteritis. Therapeutic evaluation by angiography]. PMID- 2524805 TI - [Epilepsy and hypertensive crisis after intracavernous injection of metaraminol in the treatment of priapism secondary to a papaverine test]. PMID- 2524806 TI - [Polymyositis and subcutaneous fat necrosis, manifestations of toxoplasmosis origin]. PMID- 2524807 TI - [Present status of specific desensitization]. PMID- 2524808 TI - [Genetic diversity in chronic juvenile arthritis]. PMID- 2524809 TI - [Clinically localized cancers of the breast. Therapeutic consequences of the evaluation of extension]. AB - The therapeutic modifications induced by pretreatment evaluation were studied in a consecutive series of 852 asymptomatic women with newly diagnosed primary breast cancer attending our center between 1980 and 1984. Staging tests included chest X-rays in 851 patients, bone X-rays in 831, alkaline phosphatase in 826, hepatic enzymes in 818, liver echography in 750 and bone scintigraphy in 504. The intended local treatment was changed for a systemic one in 8 patients due to suspicious abnormalities. The follow-up confirmed evidence of metastases in 6 out of 8 patients (bone: 4; liver: 1; lung: 1). Mastectomy, initially avoided in these 6 patients, was subsequently performed in 2 of them owing to slow progression of distant metastases. On the basis of the current study, pretreatment staging in asymptomatic primary breast cancer cannot be recommended due to the low prevalence of detectable metastases. PMID- 2524810 TI - [Measurement of bone mineral content by quantitative digital radiography. First results in the lumbar vertebrae]. AB - The precision of quantitative digital radiography (QDR) bone densitometer has been evaluated from measurements which were made on an anthropomorphic spine phantom of known mineral content and on volunteers. In vitro and in vivo, the coefficient of variation of the measured values was less than 0.4 p. 100 and the accuracy was very close to 100 p. 100. Measurements were also made on 30 patients and gave results that were well correlated with those obtained with two different dual photon absorptiometry (DPA) apparatus (Novo Lab 22a and Oris). PMID- 2524812 TI - [Revascularization technics of the inferior mesenteric artery]. AB - Recanalization of the inferior mesenteric artery is the only way to prevent with certainty the risk of post-operative ischaemia of the colon. Two different techniques can be used: either reimplantation by the intra-aortic route if the inferior mesenteric artery is healthy, or PTEF bypass rather than direct reimplantation in case of ostial or near-ostial stenosis. The feasibility of these procedures has been confirmed by angiographic controls. No case of gangrene requiring excision of the colon has been observed post-operatively, and only one case of regressive ischaemic colitis has been recorded after recanalization. PMID- 2524811 TI - [Extracorporeal lithotripsy in gallbladder lithiasis]. AB - Extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy (ESWL) has been used since 1986 as an alternative to surgery for the treatment of uncomplicated gallstone disease, as it induces fragmentation of gallstones. The major determinant of fragmentation is the total stone volume. Lithotripsy must be associated with oral bile acid therapy to obtain a complete disappearance of the fragments. The methodological aspects, the criteria for inclusion and exclusion and the results of ESWL are discussed. The preliminary results seem to be satisfactory with regard to stone fragmentation and to safety. However, in order to determine exactly the place of ESWL in the treatment of gallstones, some questions must be answered: which are the best lithotripters, what are the best indications of ESWL, what is the rate of stone recurrence after successful therapy, what kind of monitoring is needed after the stones have disappeared? While this new therapeutic approach is being evaluated, ESWL must be applied only to symptomatic gallstones. PMID- 2524813 TI - [Fever after taking fipexide hydrochloride]. PMID- 2524814 TI - [Value of a UW solution in kidney preservation in view of transplantation]. PMID- 2524815 TI - [Tropical myositis or diabetic pyomyositis?]. PMID- 2524816 TI - [Value of determining the activity of adenosine deaminase in tuberculous meningitis]. PMID- 2524817 TI - [Sonographically guided puncture with a large caliber needle in the diagnosis of hepatic tumors]. PMID- 2524819 TI - [Monstrous splenomegaly in Gaucher's disease. Treatment by embolization and splenectomy]. PMID- 2524818 TI - [Pathogenic significance of circulating anticoagulants in human immunodeficiency virus infection]. PMID- 2524820 TI - [Efficacy of tropatepine in paroxysmal sweats in a parkinsonian patient]. PMID- 2524821 TI - [The association of HTLV-1 and tropical spastic paraparesis in an African woman]. PMID- 2524822 TI - [Acute muscarinic syndrome induced by bethanechol in a diabetic woman with chronic kidney failure]. PMID- 2524823 TI - [Chronic atrophic polychondritis associated with cancer]. PMID- 2524824 TI - [Amyloid nephropathy disclosing Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia]. PMID- 2524825 TI - [From pharmacodependence to psychopharmacology]. PMID- 2524826 TI - [Psychodependence on psychoanalysis or the dangers of paleopsychiatry]. PMID- 2524827 TI - [Role of comprehensive examination of the population in regard to tuberculosis in rural areas of Uzbekistan]. AB - The paper presents data on inspection of sanitary and hygienic conditions in rural areas of Uzbekistan, fluorographic examination of the inhabitants, investigation of tuberculin skin sensitivity in them, the effect of pesticides on the process of tuberculosis in man, efficacy of its treatment and frequency of various mycobacterial species in tuberculous patients. It was shown that unfavourable epidemiological situation with respect to tuberculosis in the rural areas, particularly in cotton raising and cattle breeding areas were due to the unfavourable labour and living conditions, sanitary culture, situation with respect to tuberculosis in some animal farms and intensive use of pesticides in agriculture. PMID- 2524828 TI - Tissue distribution of atrial natriuretic factor in normal and pathologic human hearts. AB - The tissue distribution and possible neuroendocrine nature of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) were studied, using the avidin-biotin-peroxidase technique and antibodies to ANF, chromogranin (Ch), and neuron-specific enolase (NSE). Tissues examined included: Group 1, formalin-fixed and fresh frozen atrial tissue from adjacent areas of the hearts from two heart-lung-transplant patients; Group 2, the entire atria and sampling of other areas from formalin-fixed hearts of five gunshot wound or automobile accident victims; and Group 3, formalin-fixed right auricular tissue from 19 open-heart-surgery patients. In each case of Group 3, the ANF score, expressed as the product of the percentage of stained areas by the staining intensity, was correlated with age, weight, height, blood pressure, ejection fraction, and degree of coronary arterial stenosis. It was found that: (a) ANF was limited to atrial myocytes; the staining was significantly stronger in the right atrium, diffuse and most intense in auricles and pectinate muscles, diffuse and strong in subendocardium, focal and weak in other areas; (b) although ANF has been reported to be a peptide hormone stored in dense-core granules, it does not seem to belong to the diffuse neuroendocrine system because Ch and NSE were consistently absent in cardiac myocytes; and (c) although the limited numbers of evaluable clinical parameters do not significantly correlate with ANF scores, a change in the pattern and intensity of ANF staining was noted in some cases of Group 3. PMID- 2524829 TI - Cadmium resistance from Staphylococcus aureus plasmid pI258 cadA gene results from a cadmium-efflux ATPase. AB - Cadmium resistance specified by the cadA determinant of Staphylococcus aureus plasmid pI258 results from the functioning of a cadmium-efflux system. In the nucleotide sequence of the DNA fragment containing the cadA determinant, two open reading frames were identified. The larger one, corresponding to a predicted polypeptide of 727 amino acid residues, is necessary and sufficient for expression of cadmium resistance. Comparison of the CadA amino acid sequence with known protein sequences suggested that CadA is a member of the E1E2 cation translocating ATPases, similar to the K+-uptake ATPases of Gram-positive and Gram negative bacteria. The sequence homology is lower but significant with other E1E2 type ATPases, including the H+-efflux ATPases of eukaryotic microbes and the Ca2+ and Na+/K+-ATPases of animals. A frame-shift mutation in the middle of the gene destroys the Cd2+-resistance phenotype. A detailed model for the putative CadA ATPase based on homologies to other E1E2 ATPases is presented and discussed. PMID- 2524830 TI - E1A-dependent trans-activation of the human MYC promoter is mediated by the E2F factor. AB - E2F is a cellular transcription factor that binds to two sites in the adenovirus E2 promoter. Previous experiments have implicated E2F in the E1A-dependent transactivation of the E2 gene since levels of active E2F increase markedly during adenovirus infection in parallel with the increase in E2 transcription, and an E2F binding site can confer E1A inducibility to a heterologous promoter. Here we show that E2F binds to two sequence elements within the P2 promoter of the human MYC gene which are within a region that is critical for promoter activity. The MYC promoter can be trans-activated in an E1A-dependent manner and site-directed mutagenesis demonstrates that these E2F elements are essential for trans-activation. Finally, we also find that adenovirus infection of quiescent cells results in a stimulation of the endogenous MYC gene. We conclude that the activation of the E2F factor, which is likely responsible for the activation of viral E2 transcription, is also responsible for the E1A-dependent induction of MYC transcription. PMID- 2524831 TI - Genomic sequencing reveals a 5-methylcytosine-free domain in active promoters and the spreading of preimposed methylation patterns. AB - Previous work demonstrated an inverse correlation between methylation at the three 5'-CCGG-3' sequences in positions +24, +6, and -215 relative to the cap site of the late E2A promoter of adenovirus type 2 (Ad2) DNA and its activity. In the study presented here, we used the genomic sequencing method to detect 5 methyl-2'-deoxycytidine (m5dC) residues in 5'-CG-3' sequences other than the 5' CCGG-3' (Hpa II) sites. The patterns of methylation in all 5'-CG-3' sequences over a region of about 180 base pairs required for gene activity in the late E2A promoter of integrated Ad2 DNA were determined in cell lines that carry this promoter in an active or inactive state. In cell lines HE1 and uc2, the late E2A promoter is active and all thirteen 5'-CG-3' sequences between positions +24 and 160 are unmethylated. In cell line HE2, the same promoter is permanently shut off and all 5'-CG-3' sequences are methylated in both strands. Thus, the inverse correlation is perfect in these cell lines over a region of about 180 base pairs in the late E2A promoter. The same promoter segment was analyzed in cell lines mc23 and mc40, in which a late E2A promoter-chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) gene construct had been genomically fixed after in vitro 5'-CCGG-3' methylation and subsequent transfection. In cell line mc23, the preimposed methylation pattern was stable and the CAT gene was inactive. Genomic sequencing confirmed the presence of m5dC in the 5'-CCGG-3' sequences and revealed the spreading of methylation to neighboring 5'-CG-3' sequences along the entire promoter. Some of these sites were hemimethylated. In cell line mc40, several of the 120 integrated copies became demethylated in positions +24 and +6, but the promoter was methylated in some of the copies upstream of position -50. Cell line mc40 expressed the CAT gene. PMID- 2524832 TI - Specific inhibition of cell-surface T-cell receptor expression by antisense oligodeoxynucleotides and its effect on the production of an antigen-specific regulatory T-cell factor. AB - We have used antisense oligodeoxynucleotides corresponding to genes encoding the variable (V) region of the T-cell receptor (TCR) alpha and beta chains (V alpha and V beta) to control TCR expression in T-cell hybridomas. Two hybridomas, A1.1 and B1.1, recognize a synthetic polypeptide antigen designated poly 18 (poly[Glu Tyr-Lys-(Glu-Tyr-Ala)5]) together with I-Ad. We have found that TCR function (production of lymphokines in response to antigen) and T3 expression were removed after protease treatment of the cells and were fully recovered 48 hr later. However, when antisense oligodeoxynucleotides corresponding to the appropriate TCR V genes were present after protease treatment, little or no recovery of TCR function or T3 expression was observed. This effect was specific for the TCR V genes utilized by the T cell: antisense oligodeoxynucleotides corresponding to the TCR V regions of A1.1 had no effect on TCR expression in B1.1 and vice versa. Thus, antisense oligodeoxynucleotides can be used to temporarily block expression of a TCR gene in a T-cell hybridoma. This technique was then applied to a paradoxical phenomenon in A1.1 cells. We had observed previously that A1.1 releases an antigen-specific immunoregulatory activity that shows the same antigenic fine specificity as is displayed by the TCR of A1.1. We now report that antisense oligodeoxynucleotides corresponding to the A1.1 V alpha gene blocked the production of this soluble antigen-specific activity by the cell. Antisense oligodeoxynucleotides corresponding to A1.1 V beta, on the other hand, had no effect on the production of this antigen-specific activity. We discuss these observations in the context of recent findings on the nature of T cell-derived antigen-specific regulatory factors. PMID- 2524833 TI - Model for clonal elimination in the thymus. AB - A thymic stromal cell clone, MRL104.8a, expresses class I as well as class II H 2k antigens after exposure to gamma-interferon. This clone also produces thymic stroma-derived T-cell growth factor (TSTGF), which is distinct from other known interleukins and is capable of promoting the growth of various antigen-specific helper T cell (Th) clones without requiring a specific antigen or interleukin 2. When the keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH)-specific, I-Ek-restricted Th clone 9-16 was cultured on an Ia (I-Ak and I-Ek)-expressing MRL104.8a monolayer, potent proliferation of the 9-16 cells was induced by TSTGF produced by the monolayer. In contrast, the addition of KLH resulted in lethal growth inhibition of Th clone 9-16 cells. Another Th clone that is KLH-specific but I-Ab-restricted was capable of proliferating on the Iak-expressing MRL104.8a monolayer whether or not KLH was present. More importantly, death of Th clone 9-16 cells cultured on a MRL104.8a monolayer in the presence of KLH was almost completely prevented by the addition of anti-I-Ek or anti-CD3 monoclonal antibodies, which are capable of blocking antigen recognition by the T-cell receptor. However, when Th clone 9-16 cells were cultured in the presence of KLH but on a monolayer of MRL28.8a cells, another thymic stromal clone that expresses a comparable amount of I-Ek antigen but produces a marginal amount of TSTGF, cells did not die; a lethal effect was induced by adding TSTGF. These results indicate that the TSTGF-producing and Ia expressing thymic stromal cells induce the continuous proliferation or selective elimination of each T-cell clone, depending on whether the T-cell receptor is stimulated by the relevant antigen associated with Ia molecules expressed on the stromal cell surface. PMID- 2524834 TI - Plasmin catalyzes binding of lipoprotein (a) to immobilized fibrinogen and fibrin. AB - Lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] is a plasma component whose concentration is related to the development of atherosclerosis, although the underlying mechanisms are not known. Lp(a) contains a unique structure, apolipoprotein (a), that shares partial homology with plasminogen. We now report that plasmin catalyzes the binding of Lp(a) to both immobilized fibrinogen and fibrin in a manner analogous to our previously reported studies with plasminogen. Plasmin treatment of immobilized fibrinogen induces a 3.7-fold increase in Lp(a) binding. Low density lipoprotein, molecules similar to Lp(a) but lacking apolipoprotein (a), bind poorly to immobilized fibrinogen and binding is not increased by plasmin. Trypsin but not neutrophil elastase also increases the binding of Lp(a) to fibrinogen. Lp(a) also complexes to plasmin-fibrinogen digests, and binding increases in proportion to the time of plasmin-induced fibrinogen degradation. Lp(a) binding is lysine binding site dependent as it is inhibited by epsilon-aminocaproic acid. Lp(a) inhibits the binding of plasminogen to plasmin-modified immobilized fibrinogen, indicating that both molecules compete for similar lysine-binding sites. These findings demonstrate an affinity between Lp(a) and protease-modified fibrinogen or fibrin and thereby provide a potential mechanism to explain the association between thrombosis, coronary atherosclerosis, and increased blood concentrations of Lp(a). PMID- 2524835 TI - Mechanism of inhibition of growth of 3T3-L1 fibroblasts and their differentiation to adipocytes by dehydroepiandrosterone and related steroids: role of glucose-6 phosphate dehydrogenase. AB - Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and certain structural analogues block the differentiation of 3T3-L1 mouse embryo fibroblasts to adipocytes. These steroids also are potent uncompetitive inhibitors of mammalian glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenases (G6PDs). We provide direct evidence that treatment of the 3T3-L1 cells with DHEA and its analogues results in intracellular inhibition of G6PD, which is associated with the block of differentiation: (i) Levels of 6 phosphogluconate and other products of the pentose phosphate pathway are decreased; (ii) the magnitude of these decreases depends on the potency of steroids as inhibitors of G6PD and on concentration and duration of exposure, and it is accompanied by a proportionate block of differentiation; (iii) in cells exposed to 16 alpha-bromoepiandrosterone (a more potent inhibitor of G6PD than DHEA) at concentrations that block differentiation, introduction of exogenous 6 phosphogluconate in liposomes raises the levels of 6-phosphogluconate and other products of the pentose phosphate pathway and partially relieves the steroid block of cell growth and differentiation. PMID- 2524836 TI - Role of coupling entropy in establishing the nature and magnitude of allosteric response. AB - The coupling free energy between an allosteric ligand and a substrate, delta Gax, is an explicit measure of the nature as well as the magnitude of impact that an allosteric ligand has on the binding of the substrate ligand to the enzyme, with positive values indicating inhibition and negative values indicating activation. By measuring the variation with temperature of the coupling free energy between the allosteric ligand and the substrate, it is possible to determine the enthalpic and entropic components that give rise to the coupling free energy. We have performed this analysis on two different K-type allosteric systems: the allosteric inhibition of rat liver phosphofructokinase by MgATP, and the allosteric activation of beef heart NAD+-dependent isocitrate dehydrogenase by ADP. In both cases the coupling free energy arises as the net result of opposing enthalpic and entropic components, with the coupling enthalpy (delta Hax) favoring activation and the coupling entropy (delta Sax) favoring inhibition. For phosphofructokinase at 25 degrees C, the absolute value of T delta Sax is greater than the absolute value of delta Hax, and net inhibition of rat liver phosphofructokinase by MgATP is realized. For isocitrate dehydrogenase, delta Hax dominates; however, the net activation is substantially mitigated by the magnitude of T delta Sax. Hence, the coupling entropy plays an important role in establishing both the nature and magnitude of the allosteric response. We hypothesize that the negative coupling entropy arises from the particular constraint placed upon the internal dynamical properties of the enzyme by the simultaneous binding of both allosteric and substrate ligands. PMID- 2524837 TI - Defects in the low density lipoprotein receptor gene affect lipoprotein (a) levels: multiplicative interaction of two gene loci associated with premature atherosclerosis. AB - The lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] contains two nonidentical protein species, apolipoprotein (apo) B-100 and a specific high molecular weight glycoprotein, apo(a). Lp(a) represents a continuous quantitative genetic trait, the genetics of which are only poorly understood. Genetic variation at the apo(a) locus affects plasma Lp(a) levels and explains at least 40% of the variability of this trait. Lp(a) levels were found to be elevated 3-fold in the plasma from patients with the heterozygous form of familial hypercholesterolemia who have one mutant low density lipoprotein receptor gene. This elevation was not due to a higher frequency of those apo(a) types that are associated with high Lp(a) levels in familial hypercholesterolemia patients. Rather Lp(a) levels were elevated for each of the apo(a) phenotypes examined. The effects of the apo(a) and low density lipoprotein receptor genes on Lp(a) levels are not additive but multiplicative. This is a situation not commonly considered in quantitative human genetics. We conclude that Lp(a) levels in plasma may be determined by variation at more than one gene locus. PMID- 2524839 TI - Comparison of the interaction of the histamine H2-agonists [correction of H2 antagonists] histamine and dimaprit. PMID- 2524840 TI - Why are benzocycloheptenylamines inactive as dopamine D2-receptor agonists? PMID- 2524838 TI - Molecular cloning of cDNA encoding Sm autoantigen: derivation of a cDNA for a B polypeptide of the U series of small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particles. AB - The Sm snRNPs play a central role in the processing of pre-mRNA. Anti-Sm antibodies, the diagnostic hallmark of systemic lupus erythematosus, target the B'/B and D polypeptides of these snRNPs. We have used patient autoantibodies to clone a cDNA from a human fibroblast cDNA library that encodes the full length of a polypeptide identical with, or closely related to, polypeptide B. This cDNA is comprised of 1139 bases and contains an open reading frame of 855 nucleotides that is capable of encoding 285 amino acids. The first 223 amino acids at the NH2 terminus exhibit nearly complete homology with polypeptide N, a newly recognized brain- and heart-specific component of Sm snRNPs. The derived amino acid sequence for B differs from that of the N polypeptide primarily by a 50-amino acid insert 12 residues upstream from the homologous COOH termini of these polypeptides. The structural differences in these cDNAs for B and N may regulate tissue-specific alternative splicing mechanisms for mRNA. In addition, these clones make it possible to map in fine detail the most characteristic autoimmune responses of systemic lupus erythematosus. PMID- 2524842 TI - Maternal T lymphocytes in human decidualized endometrium. PMID- 2524841 TI - Requirement for estrogen in implantation and post implantation survival of blastocyst in the bonnet monkey. PMID- 2524843 TI - Serotonergic modulation of ingestive behavior in pigeons. AB - The effects of peripheral administration of the serotonin agonist zimeldine and the serotonin antagonist cyproheptadine on food and water consumption were evaluated in domestic pigeons. Injections of zimeldine reduced the amount of feeding and drinking dose-dependently in 24-hr fasted animals. Administration of cyproheptadine enhanced food and water consumption dose-dependently up to a dose of 160 micrograms per 100 g body weight in nondeprived pigeons. Higher doses reduced ingestion probably due to a general behavioral depression. The effect of zimeldine was antagonized by cyproheptadine. It is concluded that, as in mammals, serotonin participates as an inhibitor in the regulation of feeding in birds. Contrary to the situation in mammals it has no activating effect on drinking but leads to a reduction of water consumption in pigeons. PMID- 2524844 TI - Dextrofenfluramine, but not 8-OH-DPAT affects the decrease in food consumed by rats submitted to physical exercise. AB - The effects of physical exercise (1 hr of treadmill running) on nocturnal food consumption were investigated in trained rats. On the basis of previous reports which indicated that exercise increases central 5-HT synthesis, we also measured the consequences of 5-HT (indirect or direct) agonist administration. Noncumulative food intake data revealed that exercise diminished food consumption during the late postexercise periods whereas that of the first 4 hr of analysis remained unaltered. Treatment with dextrofenfluramine (d-FEN) at the end of the exercise session promoted hypophagia in both groups of rats; however, the anorexigenic effect of the 5-HT releaser and 5-HT uptake inhibitor d-FEN was found to be more pronounced in the runners. Lastly, an attempt was made to modify the feeding consequences of exercise by administering at the end of running an orexigenic compound, namely the 5-HT1A receptor agonist 8-hydroxy-2-(di-n propylamino)tetralin (8-OH-DPAT). At the two doses used, 8-OH-DPAT proved to be inactive on the respective amounts of food consumed by the controls and the runners. The data obtained herein suggest that (a) moderate exercise promotes late hypophagia, (b) 8-OH-DPAT is devoid of hyperphagic property when administered at the onset of the dark cycle, i.e., when the rats normally begin their gross daily food intake. The data obtained from the d-FEN study suggest that exercise-induced alterations in central serotonergic system could participate in the consequences of exercise on feeding behavior. PMID- 2524845 TI - Effect of domperidone on renal response to certain atrial natriuretic substances in rats. AB - Anesthetized rats, maintained on an intravenous (1 ml/h) infusion of saline, were injected with either atrial extract from normal rats (AE), atriopeptin III (APIII, 24 amino acids) or atrial peptide (AP, 28 amino acids) as either a bolus injection (1 atrial equivalent of AE, 1 microgram APIII, or 1 microgram AP) or by constant infusion (1.7 ng APIII or AP/min for 30 min) in isotonic saline. Diuretic, natriuretic, and kaliuretic responses were determined by subtraction of baseline values from the renal response during the first 15 min after administration of the atrial natriuretic factor (ANF). The change in renal response observed in rats receiving saline and a bolus injection of an ANF was compared to the change in response observed in the same rats that received the dopaminergic antagonist, domperidone (0.2 microgram/kg, i.v.), and the same ANF. In the case of the renal response following infusion of an ANF, a paired comparison was made between domperidone-treated and untreated rats. Domperidone attenuated the renal response to AP, administered either as a bolus injection or a constant infusion, whereas domperidone significantly reduced renal response to APIII only following constant infusion. The renal response to a bolus injection of AE was not affected by the administration of domperidone. These findings suggest that the renal action of the putative circulating form of ANF, i.e. AP, is mediated via dopaminergic receptors, and that the route of administration may affect the mechanism of action of an ANF. PMID- 2524846 TI - Seat angles and support. PMID- 2524847 TI - Photosensitization tissue model. AB - Photosensitization in a light scattering matrix was investigated with a tissue model consisting of polystyrene microsphere scattering particles, in the presence of a Photofrin II as a photosensitizing agent, and subtilisin Carlsberg as an enzyme target. The photodynamic rate constant for irradiation at 435 nm, 545 nm, and red light was measured at different microsphere concentrations. The reaction rate was almost independent of the microspheres, ruling out a significant effect of light scattering on the integrated photosensitization efficiency. Modeling with the one-dimensional diffusion approximation showed that increasing scatterer concentrations led to lower transmission and higher diffuse reflection, such that the fractional absorption was almost constant. The quantum efficiency of enzyme inactivation in the light-scattering systems was 0.0014 +/- 0.0003. In terms of incident dose, red and green light had approximately the same effectiveness and blue light was two-fold more efficient. PMID- 2524849 TI - Multipartite structure of mitochondrial DNA in a fungal longlife mutant. AB - Rearrangements in the mitochondrial genome of the longlife mutant ex1 of the ascomycete Podospora anserina have led to a heterogeneous population of subgenomic molecules. The restriction maps of individual subcircles were established using overlapping recombinant lambda phages isolated from an ex 1 mtDNA/EMBL3 library. The formation of the subcircles and the resulting multipartite organization of the ex1 mtDNA are discussed. PMID- 2524848 TI - Plasma ANF concentrations during head-down bed rest of various duration (from several hours to one month). Role of LBNP countermeasure. PMID- 2524850 TI - Vaginal reconstruction with an axial subcutaneous pedicle flap from the inferior abdominal wall: a new method. AB - A new method of vaginal reconstruction is reported. In the procedure, the left inferior abdominal wall flap with the subcutaneous pedicle containing epigastric superficial blood vessels and/or the circumflex iliac superficial vessel and the external pudendal vessel and their branches is raised and passed through an immediate extraperitoneal tunnel to be the artificial vagina. The operation is straightforward, quick, and safe. Thirty consecutive patients suffering from congenital absence of vagina have been treated. All flaps in the group, which were less bulky, survived completely. The follow-up survey was carried out from 6 months to more than 4 years postoperatively. There was no occurrence of hernia after surgery. The reconstructed vaginas in all patients were clean, soft, elastic, and expansible. Married patients indicated satisfaction with their sexual life. PMID- 2524851 TI - Extended transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flap. AB - Blood circulation within the conventional TRAM flap is not generous, and the contralateral random portion of the flap may result in fat or skin necrosis. However, this random portion can be extended safely and used for reconstruction by including the superficial epigastric vessels and the superficial circumflex iliac vessels and by anastomosing either of these to the recipient vessels. We have experienced this extended TRAM flap in two patients without any complications. PMID- 2524852 TI - The extended vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap for breast reconstruction. AB - The extended vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap has been used in 34 patients for breast reconstruction after radical mastectomy. This flap can reconstruct a large ptotic breast mound and fill the infraclavicular and axillary areas. The operative technique and a discussion of the method are presented. There are several advantages to the extended vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap. First, the main advantage of this flap is its reliable vascular supply, which can reach to the infraclavicular and axillary areas. Second, the large volume of this flap can reconstruct the large ptotic breast, fill the infraclavicular hollow, and create an axillary fold. Third, no lower abdominal wall hernias have developed, and use of alloplastic abdominal wall reinforcement is not necessary. Finally, the simultaneous beneficial effect of horizontal abdominoplasty, which further enhances the patient's body image by narrowing the waist, is unique to this vertical abdominal flap. The disadvantages of this flap include (1) the midline abdominal scar, (2) an umbilical scar on the reconstructed breast, and (3) in principle, inappropriateness for the patient who desires pregnancy postoperatively. PMID- 2524853 TI - About the W abdominoplasty. PMID- 2524854 TI - Abdominoplasty combined with other major surgical procedures: safe or sorry? AB - The clinical records of 563 patients undergoing either abdominoplasty alone or in combination with other major surgical procedures were reviewed in order to determine the relative safety of combined procedures. One-hundred-seventeen patients had abdominoplasty alone; 230 had abdominoplasty with either an intraabdominal or major pelvic procedure with or without an additional major aesthetic procedure; 216 had abdominoplasty with one or more major aesthetic procedures (without intraabdominal or pelvic procedures). The rates of occurrence of major complications, including death, pulmonary embolus, and infection, among the three groups were examined. Also examined were morbidity factors such as length of hospital stay and the need for blood transfusion. In this study, the only risk factor identified in predicting major morbidity, specifically the occurrence of pulmonary embolus, was obesity, not the complexity of the surgical procedure. PMID- 2524855 TI - 5HT1A agonist, 8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)tetralin (8-OH-DPAT), inhibits non opioid analgesia in defeated mice: influence of route of administration. AB - Recent studies have suggested that anxiety may be an important factor in the non opioid analgesic response to defeat in muroid rodents. In the present study, we have examined the influence of the 5-HT1A receptor agonist, 8-OH-DPAT, on basal nociception and defeat analgesia in male DBA/2 mice. Our results show that, while devoid of intrinsic activity on the mouse tail-flick assay, 8-OH-DPAT blocks the analgetic consequences of defeat. A ten-fold potency differential was observed as a function of route of injection, with minimum effective doses of 0.1 and 1.0 mg/kg for subcutaneous and intraperitoneal administration, respectively. Although further studies are required, these preliminary data support 5-HT1A receptor involvement in the mediation of this form of adaptive pain inhibition. PMID- 2524856 TI - Functional role of 5-HT2 receptors in the regulation of sleep and wakefulness in the rat. AB - Recently developed agents specifically acting on different 5-hydroxytryptamine (5 HT) receptor populations were used to analyze the functional role of 5-HT2 receptor subtypes in the sleep-wakefulness cycle of the rat. The 5-HT2 receptor antagonist ritanserin injected intraperitoneally (IP) (0.04-2.5 mg/kg) induced an increase in deep slow wave sleep (SWS2) duration at the expense of wakefulness (W), light slow wave sleep (SWS1) and paradoxical sleep (PS). The stimulation of 5-HT2 receptors by 1-(2,5-dimethoxy-4-methylphenyl)-2-aminopropane (DOM) produced a dose-related increase in W and a dose-dependent decrease in both SWS2 and PS. Pretreatment with ritanserin (0.16-2.5 mg/kg) or with cinanserin (2.5-5 mg/kg), another 5-HT2 receptor antagonist, dose-dependently reversed the W enhancement and the SWS2 deficit produced by DOM, but not the PS deficit. Sleep-wakefulness alterations (increase in W and SWS1 combined with a suppression of SWS2 and PS) observed after IP injection of two putative 5-HT1 receptor agonists, 8-hydroxy-2 (di-n-propylamino) tetralin (8-OH-DPAT) (2.5 mg/kg) and 5-methoxy-3-(1,2,3,6 tetrahydro-4-pyridinyl)-1H-indole (RU 24969) (0.63 mg/kg), were not modified by ritanserin pretreatment (0.16-2.5 mg/kg). These results further support the hypothesis that the serotonergic system plays an active role in the regulation of the sleep-wakefulness cycle in the rat and that 5-HT2 receptors are involved in this action. In addition, it is suggested that 5-HT1 receptor subtypes are unlikely to interact with 5-HT2 receptors in the sleep-wakefulness modulation mediated through 5-HT2 receptors. PMID- 2524857 TI - Effects of 5-HT1A agonists and 5-HT2 antagonists on haloperidol-induced dyskinesias in squirrel monkeys: no evidence for reciprocal 5-HT-dopamine interaction. AB - Dyskinetic movements and dystonic postures may be induced by neuroleptics in monkeys that have undergone previous neuroleptic treatment, and these motor abnormalities constitute a primate model of drug-induced extrapyramidal symptomatology. In view of previous suggestions that brain serotonergic systems may tonically inhibit dopamine neurons, the effects of several new and selective 5-HT2 receptor antagonists and 5-HT1A receptor agonists were investigated in this model. Setoperone, a dopamine D2 receptor antagonist with extremely potent 5-HT2 antagonism, caused dyskinetic movements. Although ritanserin is a potent 5-HT2 antagonist with very weak dopamine antagonist properties, this drug did not antagonize dyskinesias but induced them when administered at a high dose (30 mg/kg). Buspirone induced dyskinesias and blocked apomorphine-induced climbing, supporting prior reports that it has dopamine antagonist effects. Gepirone, a 5 HT1A agonist with less marked dopamine antagonist properties, induced dyskinesias in only one of six monkeys at 30 mg/kg and did not block haloperidol-induced dyskinesias. 8-OH-DPAT partly attenuated haloperidol-induced dyskinesias, an effect possibly attributable to its weak dopamine agonist properties. Tonic inhibition of brain extrapyramidal dopamine systems by serotonin systems does not appear to characterize neuroleptic-related dyskinesias in squirrel monkeys. PMID- 2524858 TI - The role of 5HT1A receptors in the modulation of the acoustic startle reflex in rats. AB - The modulatory role of serotonin (5-HT) on the acoustic startle reflex was studied using 5-HT receptor agonists and antagonists. 8-Hydroxy-2-(di-n propylamino) tetralin (8-OHDPAT) (1,2 and 4 mg/kg, SC) and 5-methoxy-N,N dimethyltryptamine (5-MeODMT) (1,2 and 4 mg/kg, IP), putative 5-HT1a receptor agonists, increased the magnitude of the startle reflex, while quipazine (5, 10 and 20 mg/kg, SC), an agonist with mixed 5-HT2 and 5-HT1b receptor activity, decreased startle responsiveness. Pretreatment of rats with ketanserin (1, 2 and 4 mg/kg, SC), a 5-HT2 receptor antagonist, had no significant effect on the activity of 8-OHDPAT, 5-MeODMT, or quipazine. Metergoline (0.25, 0.5, 1 and 2 mg/kg, SC), a mixed 5-HT1/5-HT2 receptor antagonist attenuated the augmentation of the reflex by 8-OHDPAT and 5-MeODMT and the suppression produced by quipazine. At the doses used, metergoline produced a non-dose-dependent increase in startle, while ketanserin had no effect. None of the agents specifically affected the ability of a prepulse stimulus to inhibit the acoustic startle response. These data suggest that 5-HT1a and 5-HT1b receptors play opposite roles in the modulation of the acoustic startle response and that 5-HT plays little, if any, role in the prepulse inhibition of the acoustic startle response. PMID- 2524859 TI - Ritanserin, a 5-HT2 receptor antagonist, activates midbrain dopamine neurons by blocking serotonergic inhibition. AB - The effect of systemic administration of ritanserin (R 55667), a 5 hydroxytryptamine (5-HT2) receptor antagonist, on midbrain dopamine (DA) neurons was studied with single cell recording techniques in the chloral hydrate anesthetized male rat. Dopamine cells of the zona compacta, substantia nigra (ZC SN) and the ventral tegmental area (VTA) were identified by established criteria. Ritanserin (0.5-2.0 mg/kg, IV) dose-dependently increased both the burst firing and firing rate of the midbrain DA neurons. These effects were prevented by endogenous 5-HT depletion through pretreatment with the 5-HT synthesis inhibitor para-chlorophenylalanine (PCPA, 300 mg/kg, IP, x3), which did not significantly alter the firing characteristics of the midbrain DA cells when given alone. These results suggest that 5-HT exerts an inhibitory control of midbrain DA cell activity mediated by 5-HT2 receptors. The stimulatory effect of ritanserin on midbrain DA systems might contribute to some of its clinical effects, such as improvement of mood, drive and motivation as well as its therapeutic actions in parkinsonism and type II schizophrenia. PMID- 2524861 TI - Percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty and renal function. AB - Renal function was studied before and after percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty (PTRA) in 79 patients. In a prospective study of 28 patients with unilateral renal artery stenosis, renal function was similar during angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition and after PTRA. In 37 patients with bilateral renal artery stenoses, 9 patients with solitary kidneys and renal artery stenoses and 5 patients with transplant renal artery stenoses, there was no statistical difference in the renal function before and after PTRA. Of the 79 patients studied, 50 had normal renal function before PTRA. In 5 of these renal function decreased, requiring temporary hemodialysis in 1. Of 29 patients with impairment of renal function due to renal artery stenosis, improvement was noted in 14, stabilization of renal function in 11, and decrease of renal function in 4. It is concluded that PTRA is a safe technique that can make life-long drug treatment unnecessary in antihypertensive patients. It can restore or stabilize renal function in renal insufficiency caused by renal artery stenosis. It has to be kept in mind that contrast medium toxicity and cholesterol embolization can induce severe renal insufficiency after PTRA. PMID- 2524862 TI - Maternal attachment to handicapped infants and the relationship to social support. AB - The parent-infant attachment of 36 mothers with and without a handicapped infant was compared. A prospective, longitudinal design was employed with data collection at 1, 6, and 12 months postpartum. There were significant differences in attachment at 1 month, with mothers of handicapped infants exhibiting fewer attachment behaviors; there were no differences at 6 or 12 months. When the effects of the mother's prenatal social support were partialed out, there were no longer significant differences between the two groups, suggesting that social support buffers the effects of having a handicapped infant on attachment. PMID- 2524860 TI - Immunochemical quantitation of thymine glycol in oxidized and X-irradiated DNA. AB - The present study demonstrates the usefulness of immunochemical assays for quantitating modified bases in oxidized and X-irradiated DNA. Escherichia coli, phi X174 RF I, PM2, and M13 DNA containing thymine glycols introduced by OsO4 oxidation were used as antigens in a direct enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The number of thymine glycols per DNA molecule was determined by reactivity with antithymine glycol antibody standardized either to the acetol fragment assay or to the number of Escherichia coli endonuclease III-sensitive sites. The number of thymine glycols was also determined in phi X174 RF I DNA X irradiated in either phosphate or Tris buffer under air. Using a direct ELISA with phi X174 RF I DNA irradiated in a phosphate buffer solution, the anti thymine glycol antibody detected damage at the level of 40 Gy. The immunochemical assay was sensitive, specific, quantitative, and independent of DNA structure. PMID- 2524863 TI - Suppression of primary antibody response in genetically susceptible mice infected with Salmonella typhimurium: restoration by catalase. AB - Susceptible C57BL/6 mice infected with a temperature-sensitive mutant of Salmonella typhimurium exhibited a marked depression of in vivo and in vitro primary antibody response to sheep erythrocytes which persisted for several weeks. The antibody response to a T-independent antigen (TNP-polyacrylamide) was also depressed. Cell-mixing experiments indicated that spleen cells from infected animals contained adherent suppressor cells and that the functional activity of T and B cells was unaffected. The antibody response of spleen cells from infected mice was restored by the addition of catalase, suggesting that hydrogen peroxide is involved in the mechanism of suppression. PMID- 2524864 TI - Rats with mammary cancer treated with toremifene and interferon: morphometry and needle aspiration biopsy for determination of ATP and 14C-fluorodeoxyglucose content. AB - The combined and separate action of the antiestrogen toremifene (TOR) and recombinant rat gamma interferon (RIF) was studied in rat mammary cancer induced by dimethylbenzanthracene (DMBA). The content of ATP and 14C-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) was also determined from fine needle aspiration biopsies (FNAB). RIF alone had no antitumor activity, when measured as the average number of new tumors appearing in RIF and control animals (2.4 vs 2.4 new tumors per animal), while TOR and TOR + RIF had a significant effect (1.2, P less than 0.05 and 0.6, P less than 0.01). Morphometrically, there was a significant decrease in the amount of epithelium in the tumors of the RIF + TOR animals (65% vs 82% in the controls, P less than 0.05); there was conversely an increase in the stromal component (25% vs 14%, NS). It appears that an increase of the stromal compartment is part of the healing process. The feasibility of the FNAB-technique was shown by the finding that there was a close correlation between FDG and ATP content in almost all the groups before and after treatment. Thus, FDG and ATP measure the same phenomenon, i.e., energy content. There was a large variation in the contents of ATP and FDG within and among the groups, which invalidated considerations regarding the predictive value of ATP and FDG content in tumors subject to treatment. PMID- 2524865 TI - Enzyme histochemical studies on veno-venous grafts in rats. AB - To study the extent, duration, and localization of metabolic changes in vein-to vein grafts in rats, the sequential changes in enzymatic activity of veno-venous grafts in rats were evaluated by histochemical demonstration of the activity of two oxidoreductases (lactate dehydrogenase and succinate dehydrogenase) and two hydrolytic enzymes (adenosine triphosphatase and alkaline phosphatase). All the enzymes studies showed a decrease in staining 1 day after transplantation, the change being most pronounced for AFOS in the subendothelial layer. The recovery of staining intensity was noted after 3 days, the enzyme activity reaching the pregrafting level at 1 week. Different from the previous observations on vein-to artery grafts, these vein-to-vein grafts showed less depression of enzyme activity during the first days after transplantation, neither did they display a continuing strong activity later on, probably due to lack of a thickening intimal layer. PMID- 2524866 TI - Combined subtotal pancreatectomy with selective streptozotocin infusion--a model for the induction of insulin deficiency in dogs. AB - Standardized models of type I diabetes-like insulin deficiency in larger laboratory animals hardly exist. It was therefore investigated whether stable long-term insulin deficiency in dogs can be induced by selective beta-cell destruction in a safe and reliable procedure without damage of other organs. In Beagle dogs, the diabetogenic response to systemic streptozotocin administration (38.5-28 mg/kg b.wt.) was tested. In addition, resection of corpus and cauda pancreatis in combination with selective streptozotocin perfusion (25 mg/kg b.wt.) of the remaining pancreas tissue was evaluated. Whereas systemic streptozotocin administration failed to destroy insulin secretion, but led to a variety of intoxication symptoms even in comparatively low doses (28 mg/kg b.wt.), the latter procedure resulted in a complete and persistent insulin depletion (basal serum immunoreactive insulin less than or equal to 3 microU/ml, no stimulated response) without toxic organ damage or other serious side effects. The dogs developed type I-like diabetes, which required continuous exogenous insulin substitution. From these results, subtotal pancreatectomy with selective streptozotocin perfusion of the remaining pancreas is proposed as a safe model of insulin deficiency in dogs, which should be further evaluated in experimental diabetology. PMID- 2524867 TI - [Acceleration of the left main coronary artery stenosis following PTCA: a report of a case]. AB - Acceleration of the left main coronary artery (LMCA) stenosis induced by guiding catheter which was used for percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) was demonstrated in a 68 years old man with post-infarction angina. He underwent PTCA to a subtotal lesion in the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD). The LMCA with mild stenosis of 18% reduction of luminal diameter was unchanged during the course of PTCA. The guiding catheter was pushed repeatedly with considerable force for introducing balloon catheter due to the rigid lesion in LAD. Progression of the LMCA stenosis to a 64% was demonstrated at 6 months later angiographic restudy. It was considered that repetitive sliding of guiding catheter through the LMCA caused subangiographic intimal trauma and facilitate subsequent progression of stenosis. We examined the guiding catheter to the LMCA diameter ratio, the angle of the tip portion of the guiding catheter with LMCA, and severity of the target lesion in this case compared with other 27 controls in whom PTCA was performed to the lesion in left coronary artery. No difference of these 3 factors between this case and other 27 controls was obtained. Thus it might be difficult to predict progression of LMCA stenosis by these angiographic factors. Although the incidence of catheter-induced progression of LMCA stenosis was as low as 1 of 160 cases (0.6%) in our experience, it is important to attend to catheter-induced progression of LMCA stenosis and to make an early detection. PMID- 2524869 TI - Huntington's chorea: general practitioners' knowledge about individuals' at-risk status. AB - We assessed general practitioners' knowledge about the at-risk status of offspring of persons suffering from Huntington's chorea. Of 97 practitioners who were questioned about only one at-risk individual, 16 were aware of the person's at-risk status, while nine of 26 practitioners who were questioned about more than one at-risk person were aware of it. The results indicate that prophylactic action can be achieved more efficiently by registration of families in which Huntington's chorea occurs, followed by genetic counselling. PMID- 2524868 TI - Plasma levels of atrial natriuretic peptide under acute hypoxia in normal subjects. AB - To investigate whether the acute hypoxia can be a stimulus for atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) secretion, plasma levels of ANP were determined under three different hypoxic conditions in six normal subjects. During 15% O2 breathing for 10 min, no significant change in plasma ANP level was observed. Severe hypoxia induced by 10% O2 breathing increased the mean pulmonary arterial pressure (Ppa) by 11.6 mm Hg within 10 min (P less than 0.01), accompanying a slight but significant rise in plasma ANP level of pulmonary artery (PA) from 24.3 +/- 5.3 to 28.2 +/- 4.6 pg/ml (P less than 0.05). There was a tendency for the ANP level of PA to rise under hypoxic hypobaria at 515 Torr for 10 min, followed by a decrease of that level during 100% O2 breathing under hypobaric condition. These changes, however, still remained in the normal range. No significant changes were observed both in right atrial pressure and in pulmonary capillary wedge pressure under any of the three hypoxic conditions. From these results we conclude that ANP can be released in response to the elevation of Ppa caused by acute hypoxia in normal subjects, but the changes in plasma ANP level may be too small to play a significant physiological role in hemodynamic responses to acute hypoxia. PMID- 2524870 TI - [Buserelin--a GnRh analog for the treatment of endometriosis]. AB - Within the scope of an open study, the results after treatment with Buserelin for patients with endometriosis is appraised. The patients are studied by laparoscopy or laparotomy before and after a six-month-long treatment. A clear decline of the endometriosis can be seen; however, endometriomas showed little or no reaction. The Buserelin therapy is shown to be well tolerated. It increases the rate of pregnancies, gives few biochemical complications and is an entirely acceptable therapy with few side effects. Buserelin offers a real alternative for the pharmacotherapy of endometriosis. PMID- 2524871 TI - [Inflammatory spondylitis in Verneuil's disease]. PMID- 2524873 TI - Ability of pure resting CD8+ human T cells to respond to alloantigen. AB - The ability of highly purified resting human CD8 cells to respond to alloantigens in vitro was examined. Necessary conditions for induction of interleukin 2 receptors (IL-2R), IL-2 production, proliferative responses, and various effector functions were determined. Allogeneic non-T cells induced IL-2R expression in a high proportion of resting CD4 and CD8 cells, but only CD4 cells produced detectable amounts of IL-2. CD8 cells also became IL-2 responsive upon stimulation with purified resting allogeneic CD4 or CD8 cells, indicating that HLA class I+, II- cells alone may initiate activation of resting CD8 cells. The activated CD8 cells needed the presence of simultaneously activated CD4 cells or exogenous IL-2 to be able to synthesize DNA. Effector functions like cytotoxicity, mixed lymphocyte culture (MLC) suppression, or gamma interferon (IFN-gamma) production were also only detectable when the CD8 cells were activated in the presence of IL-2. PMID- 2524872 TI - [Measurement of the variation in the thickness of lumbar disks over time in patients with lumbago]. AB - The average thickness of the last 3 lumbar disks was measured using an automatic image analyzer in 53 patients who were regularly followed-up both clinically and radiographically for an average period of 14.8 years (extremes: 6 and 39 years). This retrospective study showed that disks do not necessarily become pinched with age, even in patients with lumbago, that the rate of disk pinching is extremely variable from one patient to another, that disk collapse takes an average of 20 to 30 years, that there is a correlation between the severity of the lumbago and the rate at which the disk pinches, and that there are rapidly evolutive discopathies which are responsible for severe lumbago. PMID- 2524874 TI - T-cell phenotypes after stimulation of human mononuclear cells by pokeweed mitogen or pokeweed mitogen bound to erythrocytes. AB - Stimulation of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) by pokeweed mitogen bound to erythrocytes (E-PWM) has been found to result in an increased blast cell formation, lymphocyte proliferation, and enhanced immunoglobulin production, compared to stimulation of PBMC by PWM. Using flow cytometric analysis we compared the T helper/inducer (CD4+) to T suppressor/cytotoxic (CD8+) cell ratios of PBMC after stimulation by PWM and by E-PWM. E-PWM was found to induce significantly lower CD4+:CD8+ ratios on days 6 and 9 of the culture than PWM did. This effect was due predominantly to a relative increase in CD8+ T cells after stimulation of PBMC by E-PWM, compared with stimulation by PWM. However, the increase in T suppressor/cytotoxic cells on days 6 and 9 after E-PWM stimulation was accompanied by a simultaneous relative decrease in CD4+/2H4+ T cells (T suppressor-inducer cells) and by a relative decrease in CD8+/Leu-15+ T cells (CD4+/2H4+ independent T suppressor cells) on day 9, compared with stimulation by PWM. These results suggest that the greater immunoglobulin production after stimulation of PBMC by E-PWM than by PWM may be the result of a relative lack of suppression on fully differentiated B cells. PMID- 2524875 TI - Key enzymes of myocardial energy metabolism in papillary muscle of patients with mitral valve disease--relation to left ventricular function. AB - Metabolic adaptations were studied in papillary muscle from 18 patients undergoing open-heart surgery for mitral valve disease. Analyses were made of myoglobin (MG), the enzymes lactate dehydrogenase (LD) with its isoenzymes, glyceraldehyde phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), phosphofructokinase (PFK), citrate synthase (CS) and creatine kinase (CK) with its isoenzymes MB (CK-MB) and mitochondrial CK (CK-MIT). Myocardial function was assessed with left ventricular angiography. Positive and significant correlations were found between enzymes of oxidative metabolism, i.e. CS on the one hand and MG (r = 0.76), LD1 (r = 0.68), CK-MIT (r = 0.86) and CK-MB (r = 0.65) on the other. Indicators of glycolysis- PFK, GAPDH and LD3--varied independently of CS. LD3% was directly related to GAPDH (r = 0.66). In a sub-group of 12 patients with isolated mitral regurgitation due to myxomatous valve degeneration, LD3% rose (r = 0.72) with increasing myocardial derangement which, however, showed no relationship with any other marker. Thus the capacities of oxidative and glycolytic pathways did not co vary. Volume load appeared not to affect oxidative capacity, while the anaerobic fraction of glycolysis was increased. PMID- 2524877 TI - Sporozoite vaccine induces genetically restricted T cell elimination of malaria from hepatocytes. AB - The target of the CD8+ T cell-dependent immunity that protects mice immunized with irradiation-attenuated malaria sporozoites has not been established. Immune BALB/c mice were shown to develop malaria-specific, CD8+ T cell-dependent inflammatory infiltrates in their livers after challenge with Plasmodium berghei sporozoites. Spleen cells from immune BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice eliminated hepatocytes infected with the liver stage of P. berghei in vitro. The activity against infected hepatocytes is not inhibited by antibodies to interferon-gamma and is not present in culture supernatants. It is genetically restricted, an indication that malaria antigens on the hepatocyte surface are recognized by immune T effector cells. Subunit vaccine development will require identification of the antigens recognized by these T cells and a method of immunization that induces such immunity. PMID- 2524876 TI - V beta-specific stimulation of human T cells by staphylococcal toxins. AB - The staphylococcal toxins are responsible for a number of diseases in man and other animals. Many of them have also long been known to be powerful T cell stimulants. They do not, however, stimulate all T cells. On the contrary, each toxin reacts with human T cells bearing particular V beta sequences as part of their receptors for major histocompatibility complex protein-associated antigen. The specificity of these toxins for V beta s puts them in the recently described class of superantigens and may account for the differential sensitivity of different individuals to the toxic effects of these proteins. PMID- 2524878 TI - U.S. physicians probe deaths in Soviet Georgia. PMID- 2524879 TI - The source of low back pain and sciatica. PMID- 2524880 TI - Vascular damage, fibrosis, and chronic inflammation in mechanical back pain problems. AB - Our current hypothesis is that mechanical damage in the spine such as a disc prolapse can lead directly to pain. However, pain arising for this reason is usually of short duration. In many subjects, however, the mechanical problems lead to vascular damage and, in particular, venous obstruction and dilatation with endothelial damage, fibrin deposition, and intravascular thromboses. In turn, this is associated with perineural and intraneural fibrosis. There is a defect in the fibrinolytic system in the peripheral blood that may be the result of vascular damage but in turn may contribute to the persistence of this problem. Therefore, it seems likely that in many patients with chronic mechanical back pain there are important vascular, fibrotic, and inflammatory components to the problem. Treatment in the future should be directed specifically at these aspects of the disorder and hopefully can lead to better control of symptoms. PMID- 2524882 TI - [Experience using economic mechanisms in the activities of a cosmetology clinic]. PMID- 2524881 TI - [Possibility of modeling regional characteristics of the level and structure of morbidity and the utilization of medical services by the population]. AB - The feasibility of modelling the annual level and the pattern of gerenal morbidity (applications for aid) of the population according to the data on a single application for aid during one month of the year was based on the established regularities of seasonal changes in patients' applications for aid. It was established that an average day level of applications for aid each month in relation to average annual levels was a constant value governed by the peculiarities of seasonal distribution and irrespective of the value of the intensive morbidity indicator in the region. Distribution of applications for medical aid by week days also appeared to be constant. Proceeding from the data on population's applications for aid during 2-4 days the proposed system of coefficients enabled one to obtain the necessary information on the regional character of population's morbidity and various health care needs, thus it became possible to assess adequacy of the level of medical services to the population's health care needs in this region and also to supply information on various analytical, managerial, and planned standard problems. Experimental examination of feasibility and reliability of the model development of the level and pattern of general morbidity on the basis of a single registration of regional consultation rates was tackled by means of computer-based registration of the morbidity of 25,000 residents of Kineshma, the Ivanov Region. PMID- 2524883 TI - [Effectiveness of anti-alcoholism propaganda in preventing hypertension]. AB - Questionnaire survey of 934 residents of various regions of the European part of the USSR and the results of the experimental impact of health education media under polyclinical conditions showed that awareness of alcohol-related risk could be achieved only due to doctor's assistance. PMID- 2524884 TI - [Optimal control of the activities of a district hospital due to the use of an automated hospital management system]. PMID- 2524885 TI - [Public health in the Western Kazakhstan during World War II]. PMID- 2524886 TI - [Socio-economic aspects of combined operations in cholelithiasis]. PMID- 2524887 TI - [Laparoscopy in the diagnosis and treatment of Crohn disease]. PMID- 2524888 TI - Lifestyle and low-back pain. The influence of smoking and obesity. AB - The authors examined associations between back pain prevalence and lifestyle factors (smoking and obesity) using national survey data. Back pain prevalence rose with increasing levels of smoking, with a relative risk of 1.47 for persons reporting 50 or more pack-years of smoking. This association was strongest in persons under the age of 45 years, however, for whom the corresponding relative risk was 2.33. There were similar trends toward greater prevalence with increasing body mass index, but prevalence rose substantially only in the most obese 20% of subjects (1.7 times higher than the lowest 20%). In a logistic regression, smoking and obesity contributed independent risk, even after controlling for age, education, exercise level, and employment status. Programs for back pain prevention may wish to test interventions for these lifestyle related factors. PMID- 2524889 TI - Studies of the Modified Somatic Perceptions Questionnaire (MSPQ) in patients with back pain. Psychometric and predictive properties. AB - The Modified Somatic Perceptions Questionnaire (MSPQ) was designed to measure heightened somatic awareness among patients with chronic pain. It was hoped that this questionnaire would help predict therapeutic responses for back pain patients. The reliability, validity, and predictive characteristics of this scale were tested among 97 patients with chronic low-back pain enrolled in a clinical trial of transcutaneous nerve stimulation and stretching exercises. Internal consistency was good (alpha = 0.78), and correlations with the Zung depression scale and certain MMPI scales were significant. Correlations with a baseline functional scale (the Sickness Impact Profile) were stronger than those with the MMPI. Unfortunately, the MSPQ did not correlate with functional outcomes, and was only weakly associated with pain outcomes. Thus, the MSPQ appears to be reliable and valid, but the somatic perceptions it measures may have little relation to patient outcomes. PMID- 2524890 TI - The development of the Dallas Pain Questionnaire. An assessment of the impact of spinal pain on behavior. AB - The Dallas Pain Questionnaire (DPQ) was developed to assess the amount of chronic spinal pain that affects four aspects (daily and work-leisure activities, anxiety depression, and social interest) of the patients' lives. Results of the DPQ's statistical properties suggest that the DPQ is an externally reliable instrument as well as internally consistent. Two factors emerged from factor structure analysis. Factor 1 represents functional activities and Factor 2 represents emotional capacities. A correlation analysis suggests the concurrent validity of the psychological functional factors of the DPQ. A t test demonstrated that chronic pain patients have significantly higher DPQ scores than normals. Because these findings support its statistical properties, the DPQ appears to have utility for clinical and research purposes. The findings, limitations, and implications of this study are detailed, as are suggestions for future research. PMID- 2524891 TI - The relationship of low-back pain, work history, work environment, and stress. A retrospective cross-sectional study of 38- to 64-year-old women. AB - The association between low-back pain (LBP) and different work factors was investigated in a retrospective cross-sectional study of a random sample of 1,760 38- to 64-year-old women. The life-time incidence of LBP was 66% and the prevalence was 35%. In a univariate analysis, eight work variables correlated to LBP viz. more forward bending, more lifting, more standing, more monotonous work, dissatisfaction with the work tasks, dissatisfaction with the work environment, a higher degree of worry, and fatigue at the end of the work day. In a covariate analysis, however, only the three psychological variables remained directly associated to LBP viz. dissatisfaction with the work environment, a higher degree of worry, and fatigue at the end of the work day. PMID- 2524892 TI - Low-back pain and straight leg raising in children and adolescents. AB - The relation between a history of low-back pain (LBP) and straight leg raising (SLR) was investigated in 267 children (6-13 years) and 135 adolescents (14-18 years). The prevalences of a history of LBP and low mean SLR values were significantly greater in the older age group. In each age group, boys had significantly lower SLR values than girls. No significant difference in straight leg raising was found between those subjects with and those subjects without a history of low-back pain except for male adolescents, for whom there was a significant direct relation between a history of LBP and decreased SLR. PMID- 2524893 TI - Differences in the regional prevalence of chronic hepatitis B in southern Africa- implications for vaccination. AB - Chronic hepatitis B infection is an important cause of cirrhosis and subsequent hepatocellular carcinoma in South Africa. The disease can now be prevented by vaccination, but second-generation genetically engineered vaccines still necessitate planned allotment. We have tested 29,312 black southern African mineworkers for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) to indirectly ascertain the relative prevalence of hepatitis B infection in diverse linguistic and ethnic groups. The overall prevalence of HBsAg in this cohort of predominantly rural men was 9.9%, but the prevalence in men from different regions varied from 5.5% to 14%. The relative prevalence in 200 magisterial districts was ranked; these percentage prevalences ranged from 0% to 17%. A significantly lower mean prevalence was detected in Southern Sotho subjects than in those from coastal districts (Nguni). Based on these data, we believe that there are perhaps 2 million hepatitis B carriers in South Africa. The collected data in this report could provide a basis for a broad-based vaccine campaign whereby hepatitis B vaccine could be targeted to high-priority districts initially. This strategy could rapidly reduce the critical mass of carriers, and hasten control of the disease. PMID- 2524894 TI - [The handicap. Its etiologies]. PMID- 2524895 TI - [Very early management of the child in trouble and of his family]. PMID- 2524896 TI - [Another look--association for information and research (A.I.R.)]. PMID- 2524897 TI - [From the heart and with reason]. PMID- 2524898 TI - [Handicaps in children]. PMID- 2524899 TI - [A graphic grid for evaluation of progress in a handicapped child]. PMID- 2524900 TI - [The handicap]. PMID- 2524901 TI - [The discovery of the handicap]. PMID- 2524902 TI - [Criteria of orientation, structure of accommodations for handicapped children]. PMID- 2524903 TI - [Clinical problems of intensifying bed use at the hospital therapeutic departments]. PMID- 2524904 TI - [Infrared irradiation of the anterior abdominal wall in pathology of the gastroduodenal area (mechanisms of formation of the radiation foci and clinical evaluation)]. AB - The data obtained during endoscopy, thermography electromyography, myotonometry and electroalgesimetry were compared in patients with gastroduodenal pathology. It was established that in patients with peptic ulcer, the times of the appearance of the foci of intense infrared radiation in the projection areas did not coincide completely with the period of ulcerous defect revelation by means of endoscopy and indicated the phases of the disease activity more precisely. The foci of intense infrared radiation agreed with the zones of protective muscular tension. Since as a result of muscular contraction the skin temperature above the muscles rises, the data obtained should be taken into account in the design of the theory of thermography. The complex of the studies proposed is conducive to an objective differential diagnosis and to better results in the observation over patients suffering from gastroduodenal diseases. PMID- 2524905 TI - [Circulating immune complexes in patients with acute and chronic diseases of the liver]. AB - Altogether 471 persons were examined. Of these, 370 suffered from acute and chronic liver diseases and 101 were normal. 75 persons were examined over time (in the course of one year). The measurements were made of IgG-circulating immune complexes (CICs) and of CICs containing specific liver lipoprotein. It was established that IgG-CICs were mostly detectable in patients with acute viral hepatitis B, autoimmune chronic active hepatitis, and with primary biliary cirrhosis. CICs containing specific liver protein were detectable more frequently in patients with autoimmune chronic hepatitis and alcohol-induced liver injury. PMID- 2524906 TI - [Use of normobaric oxygenation for preventive and therapeutic purposes]. AB - Courses of normobaric oxygenation were performed in 72 healthy males (residents of the city of Arkhangelsk) and in 91 patients suffering from chronic nonspecific pulmonary diseases with respiratory insufficiency of I-II degree. Normobaric oxygenation led to the optimization of the CVS activity of northerners and an increase in their working capacity. The corrective role of oxygenation was more noticeable in persons with signs of dysadaptation. A favorable therapeutic effect of normobaric oxygenation in patients with respiratory insufficiency was not restricted to direct oxygen influence, its after-effects were lasting. Biochemical investigations indicated the absence of a toxic oxygen effect in this regimen of oxygenation. PMID- 2524907 TI - Captopril-related exfoliative dermatitis. AB - A patient with congestive heart failure and mild renal impairment developed exfoliative dermatitis following the addition of captopril to her therapy. The skin reaction responded to drug withdrawal and the administration of corticosteroids, though the patient subsequently succumbed to the complications of an incidental myocardial infarction. Recognition and prompt treatment of this potentially fatal dermatological crisis is stressed. The newer generation of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors may have a lesser propensity for cutaneous complications. PMID- 2524908 TI - [Balloon dilatation of subclavian artery stenosis and brachiocephalic trunk stenosis]. AB - We report our initial experiences concerning percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of four subclavian artery stenoses and one innominate artery stenosis in four patients. In two patients the indication for percutaneous transluminal angioplasty was a severe subclavian steal syndrome, in one patient prophylactic treatment together with carotid endarterectomy before coronary bypass surgery, and in one patient a brainstem infarction. Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty resulted in normal vertebral artery blood flow in all patients and in complete relief of symptoms in the two patients with a subclavian steal syndrome. We experienced no cerebrovascular complications and only one minor peripheral complication. During a follow-up period of seven to 18 months there has been no re-occlusion and no sign of increasing subclavian steal phenomenon. We draw the following conclusions: Selection criteria for percutaneous transluminal angioplasty must be very strict. Doppler sonography before percutaneous transluminal angioplasty is necessary to evaluate the haemodynamic effect of subclavian stenosis upon the vertebral arteries. Doppler sonographic monitoring during percutaneous transluminal angioplasty should be a routine. The risk of cerebral complications is low. Gradual normalisation of vertebral blood flow after percutaneous transluminal angioplasty is common. Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty is judged to be a safe and effective treatment for patients suffering from subclavian steal syndrome. PMID- 2524910 TI - Gentamicin-induced renal metabolic alterations in newborn rat kidney: lack of potentiation by vancomycin. AB - Daily subcutaneous administration of 20 or 100 mg/kg gentamicin for 4 days significantly decreased pyridoxal-5'-phosphate and lysosomal specific phosphatidylinositol-phospholipase C (PI-PLC) in newborn rat kidney. The fall in PI-PLC was associated with an elevation in renal phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylserine, and phosphatidylcholine. The 100 mg/kg gentamicin dose also produced a rise in renal sphingomyelin, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, and total phospholipid (TPL) accompanied by inhibition in the activities of Na+,K+-ATPase and alkaline phosphatase. In contrast, daily intraperitoneal injection of 100 mg/kg vancomycin for 4 days failed to markedly alter renal metabolic parameters. However, the 500 mg/kg vancomycin dose increased kidney weight, TPL, and all individual phospholipid class concentrations accompanied by inhibition of lysosomal specific PI-PLC activity and reduced pyridoxal-5'-phosphate levels. Simultaneous administration of 20 mg/kg gentamicin with either vancomycin dose resulted in renal alterations similar to those produced by gentamicin alone. Concurrent treatment with 100 mg/kg aminoglycoside and either vancomycin dose produced changes in kidney which were similar to those produced by gentamicin alone, except for a synergistic rise in PI as well as a greater fall in alkaline phosphatase and pyridoxal-5' phosphate. Surprisingly, the concentration of gentamicin and vancomycin was less in newborn kidneys of rats receiving a simultaneous high dose of vancomycin and aminoglycoside treatment compared to levels found in animals given either antibiotic separately. The lack of potentiation of nephrotoxicity in newborns administered a combination of vancomycin and gentamicin may be due to decreased accumulation of either antibiotic in kidney. PMID- 2524909 TI - Acute and chronic effects of synthetic atrial natriuretic factor on blood pressure and sodium excretion in spontaneously hypertensive rats. AB - To assess possible roles of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) in the regulation of blood pressure in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), we performed two series of experiments. First, we studied acute hypotensive, natriuretic and diuretic effects of ANF in pentobarbital-anesthetized SHR and age-matched Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY). A synthetic ANF of 25 amino acid residues was intravenously administered as a bolus at doses of 0.1, 1.0, 2.5 and 5.0 micrograms/kg. In SHR group, a significant decrease in mean arterial pressure (MAP) was observed at a dose of 1.0 micrograms/kg, and the decrease was dose-dependent. On the other hand, in WKY group, the hypotensive effect of ANF was not observed until a dose of 5.0 micrograms/kg. The diuretic and natriuretic effects of ANF were observed at a dose of 2.5 micrograms/kg in SHR and 5.0 micrograms/kg in WKY, respectively. Second, we also studied chronic effect of ANF on the development of hypertension in 6-week-old SHR. The SHRs, on regular diet or given 1% NaCl solution for drinking, were continuously infused into the jugular vein by osmotic minipumps with ANF (15, 75 and 150 micrograms/kg/day) or vehicle (physiological saline) as controls for up to 14 days. ANF at a dose of 150 micrograms/kg/day attenuated transiently the development of hypertension in the sodium-loaded SHR. However, the blood pressure returned to control levels by day 5. ANF at doses of 15 and 75 micrograms/kg/day did not affect the development of hypertension. In SHR on regular diet, ANF at a dose of 150 micrograms/kg/day did not affect the development of hypertension. In addition, ANF did not induce any significant changes in urine volume, fluid intake, and urinary excretion of sodium and potassium in SHR, whether they were sodium-loaded or not, when compared to those in vehicle-infused SHR. These results indicate that there may be a significant difference in the sensitivity to diuretic, natriuretic and hypotensive actions of ANF between SHR and WKY. Moreover, it is suggested that ANF may play significant roles by its vascular effect at the early stage of development of hypertension in sodium-loaded SHR.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2524911 TI - Effect of TCDD on the density of Langerhans cells in murine skin. AB - Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) is a prototype for a group of toxic polyhalogenated aromatic hydrocarbons. We have studied the effect of TCDD on skin, specifically the difference in cutaneous response of congenic haired (hr/+) and hairless (hr/hr) mice. Topical application of 0.6 microgram of TCDD induces epidermal hyperplasia/hyperkeratinization in the skin of hr/hr mice, but does not affect the epidermis of congenic hr/+ littermates. Suppression of various parameters of the immune response has been found to be another effect of TCDD exposure in experimental animals. In the present study, we investigated the effect of topical treatment with TCDD on the density of epidermal immune cells, the Langerhans cells (LC), in the skin of hr/hr and hr/+ mice. Results showed that TCDD-induced epidermal hyperplasia/hyperkeratinization in skin of hr/hr mice is accompanied by an increase in the density of LC. In the skin of hr/+ mice, in which TCDD exposure does not induce hyperplastic changes, LC densities are not affected. The increase in LC densities in TCDD-treated hr/hr mouse skin did not result in increased sensitivity of the skin to contact hypersensitization with dinitrofluorobenzene, as measured by changes in ear thickness. When hr/hr murine skin was grafted into skin of hr/+ mice and the entire dorsal skin (including the graft) treated with TCDD, LC were increased in the grafted skin, but not in the surrounding hr/+ skin. Conversly, when hr/+ murine skin was grafted into hr/hr mice and both treated with TCDD, there was no increase in the density of LC in the grafted hr/+ skin. Concomitant treatment of hairless mice with TCDD and with indomethacin did not affect the increase in the density of LC induced by TCDD treatment alone. These findings suggest that TCDD-induced epidermal changes in hr/hr murine skin involve production of factors which mediate the increase in epidermal LC. PMID- 2524912 TI - [Forensic medical evaluation in cases of foreign bodies left in the abdominal cavity]. AB - The authors consider the problems of medicolegal assessment of injuries which developed in cases of foreign bodies getting into the organs of the abdominal cavity during the operations. PMID- 2524913 TI - [Elaboration on inventive and innovative proposals at the Chair of Forensic Medicine]. PMID- 2524914 TI - [Urgent problems of forensic medical expert evaluation of disability in civil suits]. AB - The author discusses urgent medicolegal problems related to evaluation of the degree of occupational disability, necessity of additional diet for victims, which arise in connection with civil actions of persons who underwent non occupational trauma. PMID- 2524915 TI - The evolution of H+-ATPases. PMID- 2524916 TI - [The role of a sanatorium-health resort factor in the complex treatment of patients with chronic prostatitis]. AB - The results of two-step treatment of 62 patients with chronic prostatitis are presented. The first-step treatment was given at the clinic of the Urologic Research Institute of the RSFSR Ministry of Health, and the second step was completed at the Zheleznovodsk Urologic Clinic of the Pyatigorsk Research Institute of Health Resort Treatment and Physiotherapy. In addition to its medical aspect, treatment for chronic prostatitis has significant social implications, as chronic prostatitis mostly affects males of young or middle age, with the inflammation persisting for long periods of time and leading to sexual and reproductive disorders as well as psychoneuroses. Since chronic prostatitis is regarded as an inflammatory disease of infectious-immunologic etiology, with both parenchymal and interstitial tissues of the prostatic gland affected, the patients underwent antibacterial treatment, adjusted to the causative agent's sensitivity to antibacterial drugs, and the availability of physiotherapeutic procedures in hospital as the first stage of treatment. Those to whom further rehabilitation was indicated were referred to the Zheleznovodsc Urologic Clinic where they were given a treatment course making use of the natural factors: oral and external administration of mineral waters of the Smirnovsky and Slavyanovsky springs, mud treatments and physiotherapy where indicated. Treatment was designed to improve microcirculation in prostatic tissues, and used natural factors, capable of normalizing and activating systemic protective potentials. There were good results (considerably improved general condition, both subjectively felt and objectively documented) in 78%.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2524917 TI - [Organization of oncology services for patients with tumors of the upper respiratory tract]. PMID- 2524918 TI - [Surgical treatment of postoperative ventral hernia using a modification of the Napalkov method]. AB - A new modified method of plasty of practically all sizes of postoperative hernias in different areas of the abdomen has been developed on the basis of N. I. Napalkov's principle which is based on doubling aponeurosis and creating muscular defense of the aponeurotic suture. Clinical experience of the treatment of 125 patients with postoperative ventral hernias shows its use to be promising and expedient for a wide introduction into clinical practice. PMID- 2524919 TI - [Diagnosis and therapeutic tactics in destructive cholecystitis in middle-aged and elderly patients]. PMID- 2524920 TI - [Laparoscopic diagnosis of diseases of the epiploic appendages of the colon]. PMID- 2524921 TI - [Errors in the organization of medical services, diagnosis and treatment causing the development of septicemia in patients with suppurative-inflammatory diseases]. PMID- 2524922 TI - [Determining the capillary asymmetry index in the diagnosis of acute surgical diseases of the abdominal organs]. PMID- 2524923 TI - [Surgical tactics in thoraco-abdominal injuries]. PMID- 2524924 TI - [Laparoscopic diagnosis of chronic diffuse hepatitis]. PMID- 2524925 TI - [Surgical approaches to the aorto-iliac vascular segment and femoral arteries]. PMID- 2524926 TI - [Rehabilitation treatment of patients with uncomplicated fractures of the spine at a hospital rehabilitation center]. AB - The authors make an analysis of treatment of 188 patients with noncomplicated compressive fractures of the vertebral column in the thoracolumbar part performed at the stationary rehabilitation center. The course of restorative treatment was as long as 31-40 days and included individual and group trainings of exercise therapy, massage, hydrokinesotherapy, thermo-, electro-, photo- and magnetotherapy. Results of the treatment were followed in 81 patients. Excellent and good results were obtained in 43 patients (53%), unsatisfactory--in 7 patients (8.6%). The period of follow-up observation was from 1 month to 1 year. PMID- 2524927 TI - [Treatment of closed injuries of the spleen in children by splenectomy combined with heterotopic autotransplantation of splenic tissue]. PMID- 2524928 TI - Compatibility of the OPRB with vaccination of calves against parasitic bronchitis. PMID- 2524929 TI - Epidemiology of Dictyocaulus viviparus in Louisiana (U.S.A.). AB - An epidemiological investigation was conducted during a 1-year period on a permanent pasture naturally contaminated with Dictyocaulus viviparus and grazed by a varying number of yearling cattle. Seasonal variation in pasture infectivity to cattle was monitored by monthly slaughter of tracer calves, slaughter of pairs of resident yearlings at 30-60-day intervals, herbage larval recovery and by counts of first stage larvae in feces (modified Baermann technique) of resident cattle. A clinical outbreak of dictyocauliasis occurred during January-March 1986 and was associated with peak levels of pasture infectivity. Carrier animals were considered responsible for the survival of infection over summer. Although soil samples were taken regularly on a monthly basis to study the epidemiological importance of the soil as a source of infection, infective larvae were not recovered at any time. The epidemiological pattern observed in the present study provides basic information on the factors involved in infection and diseases outbreaks under sub-tropical conditions. PMID- 2524930 TI - [Experience in performing sanitary hygiene and epidemic-control measures among troops deployed in an area of destruction]. PMID- 2524931 TI - [Changes in acid mucopolysaccharide levels in the central nervous system of rats during convulsions induced by penicillin]. AB - Examined are changes in the acid mucopolysacharides contents (AMPS) in the brain of rat after I. P. application of 2 X 10(6) iu/kg of Na benzyl penicillin inducing epileptic-convulsive phenomenon with grand mal. Decreased AMPS were found in all examined cerebral regions except in cerebellum. Statistically highly significant decrease was found in hippocampus, hypothalamus and septum (p less than 0.001). Intensive cerebral metabolism during convulsions is considered to be a cause of decreased AMPS. Changes were marked in hippocampus due to its common vulnerability in relation to epileptic discharge. PMID- 2524932 TI - [Renal and congestive mechanisms in congestive heart failure]. PMID- 2524933 TI - [The role of laparoscopy in the diagnosis and treatment of gynecologic patients]. PMID- 2524935 TI - The magnitude of low-back problem in nursing. PMID- 2524934 TI - [Identification of natural isolates of nuclear polyhedrosis virus from the black arches moth (Lymantria monacha L.)]. AB - The biological activity of isolates of nuclear polyhedrosis virus of black arches moth isolated at different stages of the insect-host population cycle was determined. The isolates obtained were identified with restriction endonucleases Bam H1, Sta 1, Pst 1. PMID- 2524936 TI - Few physicians vaccinated against hepatitis B. PMID- 2524937 TI - Treatment of doxorubicin extravasations. PMID- 2524938 TI - [Experience in the multi-modal therapy of acne, including volcano mud applications and cosmetic procedures]. AB - Applications of volcano mud, that is characterized by antiinflammatory and regenerating effects, have been effectively used in multiple-modality therapy of patients with papular-pustulous and indurative acne. PMID- 2524939 TI - [The work of the Stavropol' Scientific Society of Dermaotologists]. PMID- 2524940 TI - Viral and autoimmune hepatitis. Morphologic and pathogenetic aspects of cell damage in hepatitis with potential chronicity. AB - An extensive and detailed differential presentation of light and electron microscopic aspects of the various types of hepatitis B, non-A, non-B, and autoimmune hepatitis which is of equal practical and diagnostic importance for both clinicians and pathologists, remains to be written. Nowadays, hepatitis A, occurring only as an acute disease, can be diagnosed reliably by means of serological test making liver biopsy in these patients obsolete. The group of patients with hepatitis B, non-A, non-B, and autoimmune type are investigated by light and electron microscopy under the following aspects: - Are there special morphologies of the different groups? - Are the morphologic changes of a nature to provide conclusions concerning the mechanisms of cell and tissue injury? The following, more detailed questions may be added: - Can the assumption that the non-A, non-B agents induce direct cytopathic cell injury (brought forward in the literature) be confirmed by further investigations? - Does the pattern of injury in hepatitis B indicate an immune mediated pathway of cell lesion, as inferred by clinical observations and in vitro investigations? - Is there a correlation between the partially elucidated effector mechanisms in autoimmune hepatitis and histopathologic patterns? One of our comparison groups was made up of normal subjects. As paradigm of a virus induced cytopathic hepatitis, on the other hand, HSV infected mice were investigated by light microscopy and electron microscopy. With the help of immunohistologic and immunoelectron microscopic techniques an in situ characterization of the inflammatory infiltrate was attempted. Hepatitis B. The histopathologic pattern of hepatitis B in our biopsies is characterized by a more ore less dense lymphocytic infiltrate of portal tracts and lobules with a simultaneous polymorphism of hepatocytes. A centrilobular localization of the lymphocytic infiltrates and liver cell damage in many cases is obvious. The lymphocytes are frequently found in close contact with liver cells exhibiting emperipolesis. Ground glass hepatocytes, pathognomonic for hepatitis B, were present in about half of the cases with chronic hepatitis. Non-A, non-B hepatitis. Light microscopic analysis of the cases with non-A, non-B hepatitis exhibits a heterogeneous picture; on account of the known epidemiologic and experimental studies as well as of the clinical data, this was not unexpected.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2524941 TI - [The effect of valinomycin and nigericin on the efficacy of bacteriophage infection of staphylococcal cells]. AB - The effect of ionophore antibiotics, valinomycin and nigericin, on the generation of the membrane potential, the pH gradient and the efficacy of phage infection in tetracycline-resistant staphylococci has been studied. Valinomycin at a concentration of 0.5 microM induces the dissipation of the membrane potential, and nigericin at a concentration of 12.0 microM decreases the value of the pH gradient on the membrane of staphylococci. The separate use of antibiotics has no essential influence on the efficacy of phage infection. The combined use of valinomycin and nigerimycin produces the maximum inhibition of phage infection (64.5%) at the stage of the introduction of DNA into the bacterial cell, which is indicative of a definite role played by the membrane potential and the pH gradient in the transport of phage DNA into staphylococcal cells. PMID- 2524942 TI - [The history of alcoholism control in Kazan]. PMID- 2524943 TI - [Characteristics of cellular immunity in multiple sclerosis]. AB - In 30 patients with definite multiple sclerosis a combined clinicoimmunological investigation was performed. The results of estimation of T-lymphocyte subpopulations by means of flow cytometry and monoclonal antibodies; of proliferative responses to PHA, PWM and Con A, to PHA with autoserum; of synthesis and reception of IL-2 containing material is discussed. A hypothesis of a cyclic course of the immunopathologic process is suggested (autoimmune and immunodeficiency stages). PMID- 2524945 TI - [Objectives of improving the system of teaching children with various forms of intellectual impairment]. AB - The authors point to the need of introduction of a more differentiated system of school education for children mastering school subjects with difficulty due to deficient cognitive activity. These children not rarely are considered slightly or temporarily retarded. The authors believe this grading ungrounded and suggest the children to be taught according to a special syllabus within the standards of a secondary school. PMID- 2524944 TI - [Neuroectodermal dysplasia in 2 Uzbek families]. AB - The authors present the clinical and genealogical description of 6 patients with neuroectodermal dysplasia diagnosed by a medical expedition party in Khankin district of the Khorezm region. Unique combination of clinical signs (total alopecia, microcephalia, oligophrenia, hyperhydrosis and hypogenitalism) helped differentiating the syndrome from other well-known hereditary neuroectodermal dysplasias. The nature of the syndrome segregation in the families suggested its autosomal-recessive mode of inheritance. PMID- 2524946 TI - [Characteristics of the clinical course of tick-borne encephalitis in the Central Urals]. AB - Tick-borne encephalitis (TE) clinical features have been observed for the Middle Urals since 1940. With alimentary infection routes, focal forms of the disease and Kozhevnikov epilepsy were common. Lately, more severe TE cases have been observed; a progredient course is more frequent. There are cases with lumbar spinal motoneuron involvement and development of a cerebellar syndrome in acute phase. PMID- 2524947 TI - Role of prolactin in age-related change in serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate concentrations. AB - Serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate concentrations were measured in 70 patients with prolactinoma and in 54 patients with acromegaly with normal adrenocortical function. Compared with values in normal subjects of corresponding age, serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate levels were increased in 22 patients with prolactinoma (31%) and in 5 patients with acromegaly (9%). The four acromegalic patients who had elevated serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate levels had hyperprolactinemia. The mean serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate concentrations in patients with prolactinoma in each decade decreased with advancing age. There was a significant negative correlation between serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate concentrations and ages of the patients with prolactinoma. In all 8 women with prolactinoma as in 6 normal women, serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate levels declined definitely during the 9 years of follow-up despite persistent hyperprolactinemia. These results indicate that serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate levels are increased in a substantial number of patients with hyperprolactinemia, however, PRL per se may not play a significant role in the age-related change in serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate levels. PMID- 2524948 TI - The effects of treatment combining an agonist of gonadotropin-releasing hormone with growth hormone in pubertal patients with isolated growth hormone deficiency. AB - The final height of patients treated with growth hormone for isolated growth hormone deficiency has, up to now, been subnormal, with a mean below -2 SD in the series reported, an insufficient height at the onset of puberty and a more or less accelerated bone maturation during puberty being two important factors of the poor results. A long-acting analogue of gonadoliberin, Trp6-GnRH, has been given to GH-treated patients with isolated growth hormone deficiency at the time they reached pubertal stage 2, in combination with unchanged doses of GH, for one year in 11 and for two years in 7 of them. It resulted in an increase in the height age/bone age ratio and a reduction of the height insufficiency for bone age. The increase was slight but significant after one year, and fair after two years, in spite of reduced annual growth rate. Post-analogue follow-up in 5 patients with continued GH treatment showed a good development of growth and of puberty. It is concluded that combination of the long-acting Trp6-GnRH analogue and GH for 1-2 years in patients with isolated growth hormone deficiency whose puberty starts with a very insufficient height may be an appropriate way to improve their growth parameters. Studies with increased doses of GH or increased frequency of injections could help to optimize the results. Several years of follow-up are needed for demonstrating the results on final height. PMID- 2524950 TI - Low dose sufentanil for major intracranial surgery. AB - The use of intravenous sufentanil in a single dose of 3 to 5 micrograms/kg body weight, was evaluated in 41 patients anesthetised for major intracranial surgery. It was assessed in a technique of balanced anesthesia which allowed controllable alteration in cardiovascular parameters and rapid postoperative recovery and neurological evaluation. It was concluded that the 4 micrograms/kg dose was superior regarding peroperative stability and recovery. The delayed recovery in aneurysm and fossa posterior surgery should be explained by several factors not involving the anesthetic technique. PMID- 2524949 TI - A study of epidural morphine and sufentanil anesthesia for abdominal aortic surgery. AB - Thirty six comparable patients, ASA 2, without cardiac disease, underwent aortic disobliteration, 19 under epidural 100 micrograms/kg morphine (EM) and 17 under epidural 2 micrograms/kg sufentanil (ES), combined with general anesthesia. To compare the hemodynamics, measurements were taken pre-operatively, after induction of general anesthesia, during aortic dissection, aortic cross-clamping and 3-5 minutes after the first revascularisation. Plasma and CSF drug levels were measured at intervals in 6 patients in the EM end 5 patients in the ES group. Both drugs provided satisfactory analgesia which persisted for 10.4 hours in the EM and 6.3 hours in the ES group. The fall in systemic pressure and left ventricular work in both groups after induction of general anesthesia suggests that EM and ES must be used with caution in patients with hypovolemic or cardiovascular disease. There was a significant difference in SVR between the two groups during the aortic dissection, due to a rise in SBP in the ES group and a tendency for SVR to fall in the EM group. However significant differences in left ventricular work did not occur. Notable was the absence of significant changes in filling pressure, CI and left ventricular function during aortic cross-clamping. After revascularization a significant decrease in systolic blood pressure occurred in association with an increase in heart rate in the EM group. The influence of the plasma and CSF concentrations of morphine and sufentanil on the hemodynamic changes during surgery were evaluated. PMID- 2524951 TI - [School sports and the assessment of physical endurance of healthy and performance handicapped children and adolescents]. AB - Physical training and education of children are essential components of the educational process. Regular athletic activities (sport at school, extra curricular sport activities) in childhood and adolescence promote harmonic growth, physical performance, and the development of personality. Exercise tolerance depends on biological and calendar age, on sex, on the state of health, and on general physical strength. Sports medicine creates the preconditions for the application of the means and methods of physical culture and sports for the consolidation of health. After prolonged disease or because of chronic disease pupils are given a partial exemption from school sports. The sports physicians and teachers have to engage these young people in a regular physical training adjusted to their reduced exercise tolerance. PMID- 2524952 TI - [Special education sports: an interdisciplinary responsibility within the scope of preventive measures and the promotion of physically handicapped children]. AB - Considering the necessity to give every pupil an physical education according to his/her capacity experiences are reported made in special sport groups of pupils with reduced physical performance and of children partially or fully exempted from school sports in the town of Zwickau. The responsibility of the whole society is accentuated for this problems. PMID- 2524954 TI - Diurnal change of plasma atrial natriuretic peptide concentrations in patients with congestive heart failure. AB - Diurnal change of plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) concentration was observed in 14 patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) and in eight healthy control subjects. Blood pressure, heart rate, and plasma concentration of ANP were obtained at intervals of 4 hours beginning immediately after midnight. In the CHF group, plasma ANP concentrations at the time of blood sampling were all higher than those in the control group. Patients with severe CHF had higher plasma ANP concentrations than those in patients with less severe CHF. Plasma ANP concentration in the control group was highest at 4:00 AM and was lowest at 4:00 PM. The percent change of ANP secretion (% delta ANP): [(ANP at 4:00 AM-ANP at 4:00 PM)/ANP at 4:00 PM] x 100%, increased in the control group, while it decreased in the CHF group. Moreover, % delta ANP was much lower in patients with severe CHF than it was in patients with less severe CHF. There was a possible relation between the severity of CHF and the increase of ANP secretion associated with the relative diminution of nocturnal ANP secretion. Thus the present data imply that the diurnal change in ANP was lost in patients with CHF. PMID- 2524953 TI - Dipyridamole thallium-201 imaging pre- and post-coronary angioplasty for assessment of regional myocardial ischemia in humans. AB - To examine the effect of coronary angioplasty on myocardial perfusion and to examine anatomic correlates of dipyridamole-thallium images, we performed dipyridamole thallium scanning before and after 24 angioplasty procedures in 23 patients with clinical ischemia. Dipyridamole thallium tomography was performed 1 to 4 (mean +/- S.D. 1.5 +/- 0.9) days before and 1 to 25 (6.3 +/- 6.9) days after angioplasty. Coronary angioplasty was anatomically successful (less than 50% residual stenosis) in 23 of 24 patients. Before angioplasty, 3 of 24 scans were interpreted as normal, with no change in these patients following angioplasty. Prior to angioplasty, 19 scans showed redistribution. After successful coronary angioplasty in 18 of 19, 17 showed improvement in dipyridamole thallium scanning; one did not show improvement and later required repeat coronary dilatation. In one patient with failed angioplasty, images before and after angioplasty were unchanged. Nine scans showed "fixed" defects before angioplasty, with improvement in three of nine following angioplasty. Quantitative analysis of the dipyridamole thallium scans revealed significant improvement in uptake in the myocardial regions supplied by the successfully dilated artery (involved regions), but not in the remote (uninvolved) regions. We conclude that myocardial perfusion, as judged by dipyridamole thallium scanning, almost always improves following anatomically successful coronary angioplasty. "Fixed" defects may improve following angioplasty and presumably represent ischemia with incomplete redistribution, rather than infarction. PMID- 2524956 TI - ANP in AMI. PMID- 2524955 TI - Changing patterns in percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. AB - We analyzed the impact of evolving technology on percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty in 2677 patients. There were 168 patients in period 1 when fixed-wire catheters were used, 1117 patients in period 2 when steerable catheters were available, and 1392 patients in period 3 when low-profile systems were utilized. The age of patients (55 to 57 to 59 years) and the proportion of patients with severe angina increased over the three periods (25% to 36% to 54%). The percentage of high-grade stenosis and the proportion of distal lesions also increased. Primary success rate improved from 73% in period 1 to 94% in periods 2 and 3. Emergency bypass surgery decreased (8.3% to 4.2% to 2.5%), as did the incidence of myocardial infarction (7.1% to 3.3% to 2.4%). Mortality was 0% in period 1, 0.2% in period 2, and 0.4% in period 3. These results indicate that technological advancements and increased operator experience significantly improved the primary success rate and decreased the incidence of major complications. PMID- 2524957 TI - LA enlargement in hypertension. PMID- 2524958 TI - Hemodynamic and humoral effects of intravenous dilevalol in patients with moderate hypertension. AB - The acute hemodynamic and humoral responses to intravenous dilevalol (10 to 390 mg) were evaluated in 10 patients with moderate hypertension. Dilevalol, in doses of 30 mg or more, decreased arterial pressure (p less than 0.0001) through a decrease in total peripheral resistance (p less than 0.0001) associated with an increase in stroke volume and cardiac output (p less than 0.0001). Heart rate increased moderately at doses above 190 mg. Plasma norepinephrine levels increased (p less than 0.05), but epinephrine levels remained unchanged. Plasma renin activity and level of atrial natriuretic peptide decreased (p less than 0.01 and p less than 0.01, respectively). The hypotensive and humoral changes persisted 3 hours after the last dose. Dilevalol modified the pattern of hemodynamic response to isometric stress, slightly enhancing the increases in peripheral resistance and blunting increases in cardiac output and heart rate. The response in arterial pressure during administration of dilevalol remained similar to that seen in the pretreatment phase. The results show that dilevalol, when given intravenously in a dose of 30 to 90 mg, reduces arterial pressure by reducing total peripheral resistance without acceleration in heart rate. On the basis of these hemodynamic effects, dilevalol should be further evaluated for treatment of hypertensive emergencies. PMID- 2524959 TI - A trial of dipyridamole and aspirin in the prevention of smoking-induced changes in platelets and endothelium in men with coronary artery disease. AB - A random-order, double-blind crossover study compared the effects of placebo, dipyridamole and dipyridamole plus aspirin on smoking-induced changes in endothelium and platelets. Each of 12 male habitual smokers with coronary artery disease was given dipyridamole (75 mg) and aspirin (324 mg), dipyridamole (75 mg) and placebo for aspirin, or a placebo for each drug 3 times daily for 1 week before each of three 20-minute periods (separated by 2 weeks) of smoking 2 cigarettes after a 12-hour period of abstinence. During each period of smoking there were increases in the mean values of the plasma concentrations of beta thromboglobulin, platelet factor 4 and nicotine, the endothelial cell count and the blood level of carboxyhemoglobin. In addition, the mean platelet aggregate ratio decreased during each period. After administration of placebos for both dipyridamole and aspirin, the respective mean values +/- standard deviations before and after smoking were 28 +/- 8 and 30 +/- 7 ng/ml (beta-thromboglobulin), 7.4 +/- 1.0 and 8.2 +/- 1.4 ng/ml (platelet factor 4), 3.7 +/- 0.6 and 15.7 +/- 3.5 ng/ml (nicotine), 4.2 +/- 1.4 and 5.4 +/- 1.7/counting chamber (endothelial cell count), 5.0 +/- 2.2 and 6.6 +/- 2.2% (carboxyhemoglobin) and 0.80 +/- 0.07 and 0.68 +/- 0.10 (platelet aggregate ratio). Each of the differences between the means before and after smoking was statistically significant (p less than or equal to 0.02). Neither dipyridamole alone nor in combination with aspiring significantly affected the mean smoking-induced change in any of these variables.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2524960 TI - Effect of exercise on left ventricular systolic function and reserve in morbid obesity. AB - To assess the effect of exercise on left ventricular (LV) systolic function and reserve in morbid obesity, radionuclide left ventriculography was performed before and during supine, symptom-limited bicycle exercise in 23 patients whose body weight was greater than or equal to twice their ideal body weight. Echocardiography was performed before exercise. Resting LV ejection fraction was depressed in 13 patients and LV mass was increased in 10 patients. Exercise produced nonsignificant increases (of similar magnitude) in mean LV ejection fraction in the subgroups with normal and depressed resting LV ejection fraction. Exercise produced a significant increase in LV ejection fraction from 54 +/- 8 to 65 +/- 12% (p less than 0.005) in the subgroup with normal LV mass, but produced no significant change in LV ejection fraction in the subgroup with increased LV mass (53 +/- 10 at rest, 50 +/- 12% during exercise). Moreover, the LV exercise response (change in LV ejection fraction during exercise) in the subgroup with normal LV mass was significantly different from that in the subgroup with increased LV mass (p less than 0.005). There was a strong positive correlation between LV mass and the percent over ideal body weight (r = 0.912, p = 0.01) and a strong negative correlation between LV mass and LV exercise response (r = 0.829, p = 0.01). The results suggest that increased LV mass predisposes morbidly obese patients to impairment of LV systolic function during exercise. PMID- 2524962 TI - Vertebral and right subclavian artery abnormalities in the Down syndrome. PMID- 2524961 TI - A biological approach to sudden cardiac death: structure, function and cause. PMID- 2524963 TI - Use of right-sided heart catheters during coronary angioplasty. PMID- 2524964 TI - The routine diagnostic utility of immunoglobulin and T-cell receptor gene rearrangements in lymphoproliferative disorders. AB - Immunophenotypic studies have a well-documented role in the assignment of lineage in the lymphoproliferative disorders. With the exception of mature B-cell disorders, it is difficult to demonstrate clonality by immunophenotypic studies. The advent of specific DNA probes for immunoglobulin and T-cell receptor genes has greatly facilitated the detection of clonality and, to a lesser degree, lineage, in these cases. The authors have evaluated the diagnostic utility of these probes and compared them with standard immunophenotyping in 65 patients with a variety of lymphoproliferative disorders. Their results show a significant correlation (P less than 0.01) between lineage assignment as determined by phenotyping and gene rearrangement studies, with the latter far superior in determining clonality. Furthermore, analysis of gene rearrangements facilitated the documentation of lineage and/or clonality in six cases in which standard techniques had failed. Although the scientific basis of the study of gene rearrangements has been well established, the authors wish to emphasize the role that these techniques have in evaluating problem cases in the routine diagnostic laboratory. PMID- 2524965 TI - Platelet function and structure in myeloproliferative disease, myelodysplastic syndrome, and secondary thrombocytosis. AB - Platelet function and morphologic characteristics were evaluated in 43 patients with myeloproliferative disease (MPD), 5 patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), and 7 patients with secondary thrombocytosis (ST). Platelet Factor IV (PF4) and B-thromboglobulin (BTG) showed slight elevation in ST but significant elevation in all MPDs. They were either normal or slightly elevated in MDS. Defective platelet aggregation with one or more inducers was seen in 62% of all patients. An epinephrine-induced defect was the most consistent aggregation abnormality. Hyperaggregation and spontaneous aggregation were seen in 15% of patients. Of the eight patients who showed increased bleeding tendency, all eight showed defective aggregation with two or more inducers, five showed decreased surface activation response, as well as decreased or abnormal granules and dense tubular disarray in the transmission electron microscope (TEM) study. Seven patients had clinical evidence of recurrent arterial and venous thromboses. Five of these patients showed hyperaggregation response to adenosine diphosphate and collagen and abnormal Wu and Hoak platelet aggregate ratio. Four patients showed spontaneous aggregation on aggregometer. Surface activation response was significantly increased in five patients, and an increase in platelet granules by TEM study was seen in four patients. Primary thrombocythemia could be differentiated from secondary thrombocytosis (ST) by the presence of abnormal aggregation response and significantly increased PF4 and BTG in the former, and greatly elevated plasma fibrinogen and Factor VIII, as part of acute phase reactant response, in the latter. PMID- 2524966 TI - Pseudoleukemia in Down's syndrome. Analysis of immunophenotype and gene rearrangement. AB - This report demonstrates a case of transient abnormal myelopoiesis (TAM) evolving in a patient with Down's syndrome. A diagnosis was established after the patient's blast cell count decreased considerably three weeks after the initial leukemic phase. The blast population in the authors' case expressed Leu-9 (CD7), 6D1, and TdT+. Cytochemistries showed some of the blast population to be peroxidase positive and Sudan black positive. Platelet peroxidase by electron microscopic examination showed some positive blasts. Therefore, surface markers and cytochemical studies in this case suggested an abnormal proliferation involving a pluripotential stem cell capable of expressing myeloid and lymphoid characteristics. Cytogenetics was performed at birth and showed 47,XY,+21/48,XY,+21,+mar, confirming the diagnosis of Down's syndrome. The origin of the chromosomal fragment was uncertain. It was of interest that during the remission phase of his pseudoleukemia there was a concomitant decrease in the extra chromosomal fragment. Immunoglobulin and T-cell antigen receptor gene rearrangement studies showed only germline patterns, indicating that the lymphoid cells in the blast population were not clonally expanded. Therefore, immunoglobulin and T-cell antigen receptor rearrangement analysis and immunophenotyping are extremely valuable techniques in distinguishing between TAM and acute lymphoblastic leukemia in patients with Down's syndrome. PMID- 2524967 TI - Clarification of Huntington disease in Georgia: age at onset. PMID- 2524968 TI - Stability of floxuridine and leucovorin calcium admixtures for intraperitoneal administration. AB - The stability of floxuridine and leucovorin calcium in admixtures of 0.9% sodium chloride injection at various concentrations, temperature conditions, and time points was determined. Admixtures of floxuridine and leucovorin calcium were prepared in 1-L plastic bags containing 0.9% sodium chloride injection. Admixtures containing the following three concentrations were prepared: floxuridine 1 g and leucovorin calcium 30 mg, floxuridine 2 g and leucovorin calcium 240 mg, and floxuridine 4 g and leucovorin calcium 960 mg. The admixtures were stored at refrigerated temperature (4-8 degrees C), ambient room temperature (20 degrees C), and near-physiologic body temperature (40 degrees C). Drug concentrations were measured with a stability-indicating high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) method at 0, 4, 8, 24, and 48 hours (4-8 degrees C) and at 0, 1, 3, 6, 24, and 48 hours (20 degrees C and 40 degrees C). A second set of samples at the same concentrations was prepared and sequentially stored at refrigerated, room, and near-physiologic temperatures to simulate actual-use conditions; these samples were assayed by HPLC at 0, 4, 8, 24, and 48 hours (4-8 degrees C); 49, 51, 54, and 60 hours (20 degrees C); and 61, 63, 66, and 72 hours (40 degrees C). All solutions were protected from light. Floxuridine and leucovorin calcium were stable at each concentration and temperature condition tested for a minimum of 48 hours. However, leucovorin calcium was more subject to decomposition at near-physiologic temperature than at other temperatures, with the most degradation at the lowest concentration.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2524969 TI - Evaluation of patients with back pain of suspected inflammatory nature. PMID- 2524970 TI - Femoral endarteritis due to Staphylococcus aureus complicating percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. PMID- 2524971 TI - Association of holoprosencephaly and Down syndrome. PMID- 2524972 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor in normal and hypertensive pregnancy. AB - Atrial natriuretic factor may play a role in the regulation of blood pressure, renal function, and volume homeostasis in normal and pathologic states. Atrial natriuretic factor and plasma renin activity were measured by radioimmunoassay in pregnant women with normal blood pressure (n = 29), chronic hypertension (n = 17), and preeclampsia (n = 18) during the first, second, and third trimesters and in the postpartum period. Serial data were obtained in 11 patients. Nonpregnant age-matched women were used as controls (n = 14). In normal gestation and in chronic hypertension, atrial natriuretic factor levels were in the same range as that in the control group. Mean atrial natriuretic factor was significantly higher in the antepartum and postpartum periods in severe preeclampsia. There was an inverse relationship between atrial natriuretic factor and plasma renin activity in pregnancies complicated by chronic hypertension or preeclampsia. Although fluctuations in atrial natriuretic factor levels did not predict preeclampsia, atrial natriuretic factor did correlate with the severity of the disease. PMID- 2524973 TI - Ectopic pregnancy subsequent to laparoscopic sterilization. AB - Ectopic pregnancy after laparoscopic sterilization is analyzed and compared with the occurrence of ectopic pregnancy in a fertile female population of Denmark. The incidence of ectopic pregnancy in laparoscopic-sterilized women is significantly decreased compared with the nonsterilized fertile female population. When a poststerilization pregnancy occurred, ectopic pregnancy occurred 76% of the time, and the incidence of ruptured ectopic pregnancy is significantly increased after previous laparoscopic sterilization. PMID- 2524974 TI - Hormones and cervical ripening. PMID- 2524975 TI - A multicenter study on the results of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using a Dacron ligament prosthesis in "salvage" cases. AB - A multicenter study is presented on 80 patients who underwent ACL reconstruction using a Dacron (E.I. Du Pont de Nemours and Co., Wilmington, DE) ligament prosthesis. Patient selection was based on a history of a failed autologous reconstruction and/or primary repair of the ACL. These selection criteria are unique and have not been previously reported in the literature. The frequency of prior intraarticular ACL surgery was 1.24 procedures per patient and 1.68 when combined with prior extraarticular reconstructions. Forty-one patients had a mean followup of 28 months (24 to 42 months). The mean followup for all of the patients was 21 months. The graft was augmented with autologous tissue in 59 cases and used as a pure prosthesis in the rest. Functionally, the mean Lysholm score improved from 40 to 81 points. The percentage of a combined excellent/good Lysholm rating increased from 6% to 60%. The Tegner activity rating level improved from 2 to 4. The percentage of a negative Lachman sign, anterior drawer, and pivot shift was approximately 75% at followup. There was no significant difference between the results of augmentation and nonaugmentation cases, indicating that the graft acts as a permanent prosthesis rather than as a scaffold or stint. The patients showed a significant improvement considering their preoperative global instability. PMID- 2524976 TI - Alpha-theta brainwave training and beta-endorphin levels in alcoholics. AB - An alpha-theta brainwave biofeedfack training program was applied as a novel treatment technique for chronic alcoholics. Following a temperature biofeedback pretraining phase, experimental subjects completed 15 30-min sessions of alpha theta biofeedback training. Compared to a nonalcoholic control group and a traditionally treated alcoholic control group, alcoholics receiving brainwave training (BWT) showed significant increases in percentages of EEG record in alpha and theta rhythms, and increased alpha rhythm amplitudes. Alcoholics receiving BWT showed a gradual increase in alpha and theta brain rhythms across the 15 experimental sessions. These experimentally treated alcoholics showed sharp reductions in self-assessed depression (Beck's Depression Inventory) compared to the control groups. Alcoholics receiving standard medical treatment (abstinence, group psychotherapy, antidepressants) showed a significant elevation in serum beta-endorphin levels at the conclusion of the experiment. This neuropeptide is an index of stress and a stimulant of caloric (e.g., ethanol) intake. Application of brainwave treatment, a relaxation therapy, appears to counteract the increase in circulating beta-endorphin levels seen in the control group of alcoholics. 13 month follow-up data indicate sustained prevention of relapse in alcoholics that completed alpha-theta brainwave training. PMID- 2524977 TI - A radioassay of enzymes catalyzing the glucosylation and sulfation steps of glucosinolate biosynthesis in Brassica species. AB - A new method for assaying the enzymes uridine diphosphoglucose (UDPglucose):thiohydroximate glucosyltransferase and 3'-phosphoadenosine-5' phosphosulfate:desulfoglucosinolate sulfotransferase has been designed. The assay system is based on the separation of nonionic [14C]desulfobenzylglucosinolate from anionic [14C]UDPglucose and anionic [14C]benzylglucosinolate, respectively, by differential adsorption to DEAE-ion-exchange disks. The procedure eliminates elaborate chromatographic techniques. The method was used to measure both enzymes in several Brassica spp. In addition, sulfotransferase activity was monitored during partial purification from seedlings of Brassica napus (cv Westar). PMID- 2524979 TI - Dose-response relationship to mivacurium in humans. PMID- 2524978 TI - Demonstration of atrial natriuretic peptide/cardiodilatin (ANP/CDD) immunoreactivity in the salt gland of the Pekin duck. AB - A novel peptide hormone, atrial natriuretic factor/cardiodilatin (ANP/CDD), was recently isolated and characterized from mammalian heart. Its presence has been demonstrated in several organs that contribute to water and sodium homeostasis, such as salivary glands. This study demonstrates the presence of ANP/CDD immunoreactivity in the salt gland of Pekin ducks by high performance liquid chromatography, radioimmunoassay and immunocytochemistry, using a specific antibody against atriopeptide I. A small number of distinct, ovoid or cuboid shaped ANP/CDD-immunoreactive cells were localized in the connective tissue surrounding and separating the central secretory tubules, whereas no immunostaining was observed in the peripheral tubules. Salt glands of ducks that were adapted to salt water revealed a significant hypertrophy of their secretory lobules. However, no differences were found between the number or localization of immunoreactive cells in the salt gland of salt water-acclimatized ducks and nonstimulated glands of ducks that were housed with ad libitum access to fresh water. Our results indicate that ANP/CDD may play a role in the regulation of sodium secretion in the salt gland of aquatic birds. PMID- 2524980 TI - Cell recruitment into lung wall and airways of conventional and pathogen-free guinea pigs after inhalation of endotoxin. AB - The cell kinetics of the acute inflammatory response to inhaled endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide, LPS) was studied in the lungs of conventional (CV) and pathogen-free (SPF) guinea pigs. Airway cells were obtained by bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). Lung wall cells were prepared via collagenase digestion of lung tissue slices. Acute exposure to LPS triggered the influx within 4 to 12 h of equivalent numbers (approximately 70 x 10(6)) of neutrophils into the lung walls of both CV and SPF guinea pigs. The recruited neutrophils then proceeded into the airways of CV animals, and by 48 h all recruited neutrophils were recoverable by BAL. In contrast, only one third of recruited neutrophils in the lungs of SPF animals moved from the lung wall into the airways. Analysis of neutrophil chemotactic factor (NCF) production identified lung wall cells as the major source of LPS-induced NCF activity in both groups and as virtually the sole source in SPF animals. The results emphasize the importance of studies on the precise lung tissue distribution of both recruited neutrophils, and endogenous NCF-producing cells, in elucidating the acute inflammatory response in the lungs. PMID- 2524981 TI - Pentoxifylline prevents tumor necrosis factor-induced lung injury. AB - Human tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF) is a monokine produced by mononuclear cells after many stimuli, including bacterial endotoxin. Full exploration of its antineoplastic effects has been limited by side effects. We have previously shown that the administration of TNF to guinea pigs is associated with a syndrome similar to gram-negative septic shock, which includes capillary permeability lung injury. In this study, we measured the effects of pentoxifylline (PTX) on parameters of TNF-induced lung injury including: lung wet-to-dry weight ratio, the ratio of lung-to-plasma 125I-labeled albumin (albumin index), bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and peripheral leukocyte counts, and serial measurements of mean arterial pressure (MAP). Four groups of animals were studied: a TNF group received 3.75 x 10(6) U/kg TNF; a PTX group received a 20-mg/kg bolus of PTX followed by an infusion of 6 mg/kg/h; the PTX-TNF group received both; and the final group was a saline control. ANOVA analysis revealed significant elevations of lung wet-to-dry ratio only in the TNF group (5.9 [5.6 to 6.3], p less than 0.001), expressed as the mean followed by 95% confidence intervals). Lung albumin index was elevated only in the TNF group (0.24 [0.19 to 0.29], p less than 0.01).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2524982 TI - The relationship between rapid growth and pulmonary hemodynamics in the fast growing broiler chicken. AB - Very fast-growing (VFG) broiler chickens tend to have marked right ventricular hypertrophy when compared with slower growing chickens. We hypothesized that, in the setting of rapid growth, a hypoxic stimulus would cause greater pulmonary hypertension and right ventricular hypertrophy (RVH). We have studied the relationship between artial oxygenation (SaO2), RVH, and pulmonary artery pressure (Ppa) in 28 awake VFG chickens. We found that the hypoxemic chickens had pulmonary hypertension and that the Ppa was linearly related to the SaO2. The relationship between Ppa and RVH, however, was best described by a broken line (p less than 0.05). Thus, at higher pressures, the RVH seemed excessive for a given Ppa. We have also studied the effects of reducing FIO2 on Ppa, systemic pressure, cardiac output, and calculated total pulmonary resistance (TPR) in lightly anesthetized fast-growing and normal chickens. We found that normal chickens and fast growers had similar TPR in room air, but that the fast growers had a greater increase in TPR than did the normal chickens in response to hypoxia (p less than 0.05). Finally, we placed 2-wk-old normal and VFG chicks in a hypobaric chamber set at "10,000 feet" for 2 wk and found that the VFG but not the normal chickens developed marked RVH in response to the hypoxia. However, the RVH in the fast growing chickens could be prevented by restricting their diet, and hence their growth. We conclude that hypoxemia probably caused the pulmonary hypertension and RVH in the fast-growing chickens, but that the rapid growth appeared to act as an important amplifier of this response. PMID- 2524983 TI - Aerosolized pentamidine and cutaneous eruptions. PMID- 2524985 TI - [Adoption in terms of current regulations]. AB - Legal decisions concerning adoption taken over the last thirty years have usually followed changes in public opinion. For instance, the July 11 1966 Act has practically put an end to conflicts between adopting parents and biologic mothers (or parents) and has specified adoption eligibility criteria. At present, because most adoptions are successful and numbers of children eligible for adoption are falling steadily, efforts are being made to allow the adoption of the greatest possible number of children at a young age; some handicapped children as well as older children are also considered as adoptable. Older children who were neglected in their former environment occasionally experience psychologic problems; for them, decisions can be taken only individually and foster home placement with the potential adoptive parents can be used as a first step. Today, the practitioner's role is mainly to inform the adoptive parents on the impact of a given somatic or (if possible) psychologic handicap. The current tendency is to maintain the greatest possible number of children within their family environment by supporting the family and allowing the child and parents to participate in all the decisions concerning them. Adoption of French children is becoming more and more difficult, explaining why foreign-born children are being increasingly adopted. PMID- 2524984 TI - Poison ivy, mangoes, cashews, and dermatitis. PMID- 2524986 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor. PMID- 2524987 TI - Protein S and thrombosis. AB - Thrombosis is a serious problem in the United States. Activated protein C is a vitamin K-dependent serine protease that seems to be an important regulator of the hemostatic process. Protein S is another vitamin K-dependent protein that is essential for the expression of the anticoagulant activity of activated protein C. Evidence suggests that defects in either of these proteins may be related to the development of thrombosis. Therefore, the accurate measurement of these proteins is important in the study and in the treatment of thrombosis. Sixty percent of the protein S found in human plasma is bound to the complement component C4b-binding protein, and when in this complex, protein S is inactive. The remaining 40 percent is the free, functional form of protein S. This paper describes the measurement of both free and total protein S by two types of assays. The first assay involves immunoelectrophoresis, also known as the Laurell Rocket method. The second assay is a capture enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The two assays are compared as to relative ease and cost. PMID- 2524988 TI - [Elevated levels of plasma 4-ene steroids in a case of congenital deficiency of 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase]. AB - Plasma hormones have been evaluated from birth to six months in a boy with male pseudohermaphroditism due to congenital 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3 beta-HSD) deficiency. At birth, plasma 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) was slightly elevated while cortisol was within the normal range. Both 17-OHP and testosterone (T) were increased the fifth day. At the age of 2 months, only the baseline level of 17-hydroxypregnenolone (17-OH5P) was slightly elevated and the diagnosis of 3 beta-HSD deficiency was established in view of the excessive response of 17-OH5P and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHA) to Synacthen administration. There was an important increase of T and dihydrotestosterone in response to chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) administration while no significant variation of the other studied steroids was observed. These results suggest that the determination of plasma 17-OH5P seems to be the best tool to diagnose congenital 3 beta-HSD deficiency. The increase of 17-OHP is the result of 17-OH5P conversion in peripheral tissues. Though T response to hCG is rather normal, a partial testicular deficiency of 3 beta-HSD cannot be excluded. The ambiguous genitalia observed in this boy with normal plasma T levels might suggest that T production might have been deficient at the time when urethral-fold fusion occurred. PMID- 2524989 TI - Some red cell enzymes and haptoglobin gene frequencies in two Basque regions and Leon. AB - A study was conducted to determine the distribution of phenotypes and gene frequencies of haptoglobin, phosphoglucomutase 1, esterase D, 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase and three monomorphic systems SOD, sMDH and NADH DIA I. Results obtained from two Basque regions and Leon were compared with those from other Spanish populations. Gene frequencies observed in the Leon sample were similar to those obtained from the other Spanish samples. The Basque samples differed from the other Spanish populations in the gene frequencies of esterase D. PMID- 2524990 TI - Gene frequencies of Gc and PGM subtypes. AB - Allele frequencies are presented for subtypes of phosphoglucomutase locus 1 and the group-specific component (Gc) in samples from a number of human populations. Compared with each other and with published data, continental samples are very similar in gene frequency to their reported distributions in the literature, but the small island populations are much more variable. PMID- 2524991 TI - Assignment of the gene encoding the beta-subunit of the human fibronectin receptor (beta-FNR) to chromosome 10p11.2. AB - A cDNA corresponding to the beta-subunit of the human fibronectin receptor (beta FNR) was used as a probe in Southern blot analysis of mouse/human somatic cell hybrid DNAs and in in situ hybridization to metaphase chromosomes. The beta-FNR cDNA detects sequences present on human chromosome 10 as well as recognizing homologous sequences in the genome of the mouse parent of the somatic cell hybrids. In situ hybridization refined the localization of human sequences reacting with the beta-FNR cDNA to 10p11.2. The A-1A5 monoclonal antibody which recognizes the beta-subunit of the fibronectin receptor on the cell surface was used to confirm that the sequences present on chromosome 10 correspond to those required for expression of beta-FNR. PMID- 2524992 TI - A controlled clinical trial of baclofen as protective therapy in early Huntington's disease. AB - We carried out a controlled clinical trial to examine the potential of baclofen to slow the functional decline of patients with early Huntington's disease (HD). The basis of the trial was: (1) the hypothesis that excitatory amino acid neurotransmission mediates the neuronal degeneration of HD, (2) preclinical evidence that baclofen retards corticostriatal release of glutamate and aspartate, and (3) reports that baclofen produces short-term clinical benefits in some HD patients. Sixty patients with early HD were randomized to chronic baclofen, 60 mg/day, or placebo treatments and followed systematically for up to 42 months. Total functional capacity was not favorably influenced by baclofen treatment. Factors that contributed, although nonsignificantly, to a more rapid rate of total functional capacity decline included younger age (less than 35 years), earlier stage (stage I) of illness, paternal inheritance of the HD gene, and baclofen treatment. Our patients declined at a pace slower than that observed in other prospective studies, a finding likely due to selection criteria, avoidance of neuroleptic therapy, and strong psychosocial support. PMID- 2524993 TI - Thrombolytic therapy in acute myocardial infarction. AB - Early thrombolytic therapy has been shown to reduce hospital mortality after myocardial infarction by 20-50%. This is achieved through reperfusion of the ischemic myocardium, which leads to limitation of infarct size by 15-30% and preservation of regional and global left ventricular function. Thrombolysis and reperfusion can be achieved by intravenous administration of streptokinase, urokinase, APSAC, or rt-PA, or by intracoronary administration of streptokinase or urokinase. Thrombolytic therapy is most effective in patients with extensive myocardial ischemia (large infarction) treated early after the onset of symptoms, but also patients with smaller infarcts may benefit from the therapy. It is uncertain whether treatment later than six hours after the onset of symptoms is beneficial, and if so, in which patients. Thrombolytic therapy leads to bleeding complications in a minority of patients. The risk of intracranial bleeding is approximately 0.5%. However, in several large trials the rate of cerebrovascular accidents (bleeding plus embolism) was not higher after thrombolytic therapy with streptokinase or rt-PA than after placebo. In order to prevent rethrombosis, additional treatment with acetyl salicylic acid and heparin is recommended. Nitrates and antiarrhythmic drugs are not recommended as routine practice. Immediate PTCA does not improve patient outcome. At present angiography and subsequent angioplasty or bypass surgery is recommended in patients with recurrent ischemia (spontaneous or upon exercise) after the infarct. PMID- 2524994 TI - Sarcoidosis. AB - Sarcoidosis continues to be a disease defined descriptively rather than by etiology. Bronchoalveolar lavage has brought new understandings of the pulmonary inflammatory process and its pathogenesis and defects in immunoregulation. Much is known of the clinical characteristics of sarcoidosis, its diagnosis and management. Spontaneous remissions are common, but when treatment is required, the response to corticosteroids is often dramatic, although long-term treatment may be required. The appropriate use of corticosteroids is discussed fully, as are special clinical problems. PMID- 2524995 TI - Balloon catheter therapy and cardiac valvular disease. AB - Over the last five years, percutaneous balloon dilatation has been developed as a nonsurgical treatment of stenotic cardiac valves in children and adults. In this paper, we review the state of the art in this new and evolving field of interventional cardiac catheterization. PMID- 2524996 TI - The biochemical pharmacology of atrial peptides. PMID- 2524997 TI - Antibacterial activity of trospectomycin (U-63366F) and initial evaluations of disk diffusion susceptibility tests. AB - The in vitro activities of trospectomycin sulfate were compared with those spectinomycin against 632 aerobic microorganisms, including 66 Neisseria gonorrhoeae isolates. Against species other than gram-negative bacilli, trospectomycin was about 4- to 16-fold more active than spectinomycin. For disk diffusion tests, a 30-micrograms disk is recommended, with tentative zone size breakpoints of less than or equal to 13 mm for resistance (MIC, greater than or equal to 64 micrograms/ml) and greater than or equal to 17 mm for susceptibility (MIC, less than or equal to 16 micrograms/ml). PMID- 2524998 TI - Comparative antimycobacterial activities of difloxacin, temafloxacin, enoxacin, pefloxacin, reference fluoroquinolones, and a new macrolide, clarithromycin. AB - The activities of fluoroquinolones and a new macrolide against 30 clinical isolates of Mycobacterium tuberculosis were determined in vitro by agar diffusion. In order of relative potencies against M. tuberculosis, temafloxacin (MIC for 90% of isolates [MIC90], 2.3 micrograms/ml) was at least as active as the reference quinolones ofloxacin (MIC90, 2.4 micrograms/ml) and ciprofloxacin (MIC90, 4.3 micrograms/ml). Less active were difloxacin (MIC90, 4.7 micrograms/ml), pefloxacin (MIC90, 6.7 micrograms/ml), and enoxacin (MIC90, 8.3 micrograms/ml). The macrolide clarithromycin was more potent than erythromycin but less potent than the fluoroquinolones. Our results suggest that the newer fluoroquinolones and clarithromycin should be included with ciprofloxacin and ofloxacin in pharmacokinetic studies that may lead to trials in human subjects with mycobacterial infections. PMID- 2524999 TI - Uptake, intracellular binding, and excretion of polyamines during growth of Neurospora crassa. AB - In Neurospora crassa mycelia, the amounts of the main polyamines, putrescine and spermidine, are approximately 0.8 and 18 nmol/mg, dry weight. We wished to know what determines these pool sizes. In the growth medium, externally added polyamines enter cells largely by a nonsaturable, diffusional system. In a mutant unable to polyamines, internal and external spermidine appear to equilibrate across the cell membrane during growth. However, this was true only after an intracellular "sink," with a capacity equal to the amount of spermidine found in wild-type cells, had been saturated. We speculate that internal anionic binding sites, detectable in permeabilized cells, sequester virtually all of the spermidine normally found in exponentially growing N. crassa. Further evidence for this view was that in mature, stationary cultures, excess spermidine is excreted. Putrescine is also excreted if its concentration in the cell is abnormally high. The control of pool size by intracellular binding and excretion may be an advantage in this pathway, because feedback inhibition does not prevail, enzyme regulation is by comparison slow, and excessive polyamines are toxic. PMID- 2525000 TI - Expression, purification, and in vivo activity of atrial natriuretic factor prohormone produced in Escherichia coli. AB - Atrial muscles of the heart are known to produce polypeptide hormones called atrial natriuretic factors (ANF) which have potent diuretic and hypotensive action. These hormones are synthesized as a larger protein precursor called pro atrial natriuretic factor or proANF which contains the biologically active ANF sequences at its C-terminus. Rat proANF (representing amino acids -1 to 128 of the coding sequence) was expressed in a soluble form in Escherichia coli. A simple purification procedure was developed which consists of boiling E. coli cell extracts in 1 M acetic acid and subjecting the supernatant to reversed-phase HPLC. The effect of intravenous administration of the purified recombinant proANF on mean arterial blood pressure was examined. The displacement dose-response curves obtained demonstrated that proANF exhibits similar, albeit less potent, physiological activity than ANF. PMID- 2525001 TI - [Radiosensitizer: hypoxic cell radiosensitizer]. AB - There is a world-wide demand for a clinically usable sensitizer for radio resistant hypoxic cells. After unsuccessful clinical trials of misonidazole, many efforts have been made to develop new sensitizers. In the U.S., Brown and others reported a new drug named SR-2508 (ethanidazole), which is now in phase II and III clinical trials. In Japan, many drugs were synthesized and tested with the screening systems using EMT6 and SCCVII tumor. Since the failure with misonidazole is due to its neurotoxicity, two methods have been applied to find new sensitizers. The first one is to increase the sensitizing effects and the other is to decrease the neurotoxicity. KU-2285 is fluorinated nitroimidazole, and it has a higher sensitizing effect than misonidazole or SR-2508. Its sensitizing effect is 1.65 at 200 mg/kg, and the LD50 value is 2.3 g/kg. Hoping for less neurotoxicity, RK-28, RP-170 and KIH-801 were synthesized. RP-170 demonstrated less toxicity than Miso, and KIH-801 demonstrated an unexpectedly high sensitizing effect especially is in vivo experiments. Although RK-28 has a low LD50 value, it shows rapid clearance rate from serum and is supposed to have less cumulative neurotoxicity. KU-2285, RK-28, RP-170 and KIH-801 all await further clinical trials. PMID- 2525002 TI - [Combined treatment of endoscopic laser irradiation and radiotherapy in lung cancer]. AB - Sixty-six patients with lung cancer were treated with endoscopic laser irradiation. In this study, photodynamic laser therapy (PDT) was performed on 28 patients with early lung cancer and 38 patients with advance lung cancer having 69 biopsy-proven malignant lesions of the trachea and bronchus. The patients were administered HpD (2. 5 mg/kg of their weight) injected intravenously three days prior to HpD-mediated laser phototherapy. These patients have completed at least one course of this therapy which was carried out by flexible bronchofiberscope. The laser beam was delivered through an optical fiber connected to the output of a dye laser (630 +/- 3 nm). The optical fiber was passed through the large inside channel of the flexible bronchofiberscope. Among the 69 malignant lesions of the trachea and bronchus, complete responses were obtained in 9 malignant lesions, partial responses in 44 cases, regressions in 13 cases, and the remaining 3 cases had progressions. Of the 66 patients, 19 patients are alive with no recurrence or metastasis, while the remaining 47 patients died after photodynamic laser therapy. The patients treated with photodynamic laser therapy (PDT) had unresectable lung cancer which was observable by bronchofiberscopy but not suitable for radical treatment either by chemotherapy or radiation therapy. We studied a selection of patients with unresectable lung cancer for application of a treatment combining endoscopic laser irradiation and radiotherapy. PMID- 2525003 TI - [Diagnosis and treatment of endometrial hyperplasia]. AB - Endometrial hyperplasia (EH) was found to coexist in 13 of 21 patients (cystic glandular hyperplasia, 13; adenomatous hyperplasia, 9) with endometrial adenocarcinoma (EC), but in only 44 of 940 patients with other than EC. In this study, blood type (A, B, H), c-myc translation products, estrogen receptor and DNA polymerase alpha were examined on endometrium of proliferative phase (EPP), EH and EC. Patient blood type products were shown in EH surrounding EC, and yet they were detected in only small portion or none of EC itself. H products were detected in EC of other than O type. c-myc translation products were shown in only a small portion of cancer cells. EPP had many ER positive cells and a few proliferating cells as they were shown by staining with anti-DNA polymerase alpha monoclonal antibody. EC can be divided into two types, one has few ER positive cells and many proliferating cells, other many ER positive cells and a few proliferating cells. In EH, the numbers of ER positive cells and DNA polymerase alpha positive cells were between those of EPP and EC. In a patient with atypical hyperplasia, high dose Medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) therapy induced that stratification and papillary growth of gland lining epithelia disappeared, and that cytoplasmic enlargement and vacuolation appeared. These findings were important histopathological changes in high dose MPA administration to EH and EC. PMID- 2525004 TI - [Combination therapy with medroxyprogesterone acetate and tegafur in tamoxifen- and adriamycin-resistant advanced breast cancers]. AB - Medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) plus Tegafur (TGF) therapy was performed to evaluate the efficacy in a treatment for Tamoxifen- and Adriamycin-resistant advanced breast cancers. The patients were medicated in different doses on 800 mg or 1,200 mg daily po for MPA and TGF. Sixteen patients were evaluable in this trial. According to criteria of the Japan Mammary Cancer Society, one was regarded as CR and five as PR. The response rate was 37.5%. There was no difference in response rates between premenopausal and postmenopausal patients or ER positive and negative patients. No difference was noted either in response rates and incidence of side effects between two different doses of MPA. This means that an 800 mg daily dose of MPA lower than the recommended 1,200 mg might be better in the treatment for Japanese patients with advanced breast cancers. Gastrointestinal disorders, bone marrow suppression and liver dysfunction which could be found in high-dose TGF therapy, were not frequently observed in this trial. Patients could expect good quality of life during the treatment because of fewer side effects. This combination therapy with MPA and TGF was regarded as a good modality for the treatment of Tamoxifen- and Adriamycin-resistant advanced breast cancers. PMID- 2525006 TI - Porokeratosis punctata palmaris et plantaris. A new entity? AB - Seven members from three generations of a Saudi family presented with porokeratosis punctata palmaris et plantaris (PPPP). In our series of patients, the disorder began in their early 20s, seemed to be transmitted as a dominant trait, and affected males only. The elementary lesion was a tiny keratotic spine, and the involvement was strictly limited to the volar aspects of the hands and to the soles of the feet. Histological studies showed a columnar parakeratosis that resembled the cornoid lamella of porokeratosis, but other clinical and histological traits tended to make PPPP an entity that was distinct from true porokeratosis. There have been only six reports in the literature on genuine PPPP before this series. PMID- 2525007 TI - Recent onset of smooth, shiny, erythematous papules on the face. Steroid rosacea secondary to topical fluorinated steroid therapy. PMID- 2525008 TI - The discrimination between CD8+ cytotoxic and CD8+ suppressor lymphocyte subsets within cutaneous infiltrates. PMID- 2525005 TI - [Two cases of gastrointestinal cancers with major responses to sequential methotrexate 5-FU plus 5'-DFUR]. AB - We reported 2 patients treated with Methotrexate (MTX)-Fluorouracil (5-FU) sequential therapy combined with Doxifluridine (5'-DFUR). The method of administration was as follows: MTX 60 mg was given intravenously (iv) followed by 5-FU 600 mg iv 2 hours later in colon cancer and 5 hours later in gastric cancer. Leucovorin 20 mg was administered 3 times every 6 hours beginning 6 hours after 5 FU infusion. This cycle was repeated once a week for 5 weeks. 5'-DFUR 1,200 mg was given orally daily and continued after MTX.5-FU therapy. Patient 1 was a 60 yr-old female with recurrent colon cancer developed four years after sigmoidectomy. She was referred to our hospital for further examinations of elevated serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA). The enlarged intraabdominal lymph nodes due to recurrence were demonstrated on computer tomography and the chemotherapy was performed as described above. The swelling of lymph nodes showed marked reduction in size and CEA value was normalized. Patient 2 was a 59-yr-old man with advanced gastric cancer accompanied by giant liver metastasis. Both primary and metastatic lesion responded favorably to this regimen. There was no remarkable side effect in either patient. These results suggest that this method is worth performing in further clinical trials for cancer patients. PMID- 2525009 TI - Predominance of "memory" T cells (CD4+, CDw29+) over "naive" T cells (CD4+, CD45R+) in both normal and diseased human skin. AB - Absolute numbers of CD3+ T lymphocytes and their subpopulations were determined and statistically evaluated in the lesional skin of psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, nummular dermatitis, pityriasis rosea, and lichen planus. Skin sections were divided into horizontal layers and the numbers of CD3+ T cells as well as CD4+ inducer and CD8+ suppressor-cytotoxic T-cell subsets were counted. In addition, absolute numbers of the two subpopulations of inducer T cells, i.e., "memory" (4B4+ 2H4-) and "naive" (4B4- 2H4+) were evaluated. Unexpectedly, epidermal infiltration by T cells was highest in psoriasis and lowest in atopic dermatitis. In most cases, this exocytosis was dominated by CD8+ suppressor/cytotoxic T lymphocytes, with a minimal epidermal mean CD4/mean CD8 ratio of 0.04 in pityriasis rosea and a maximum of 0.48 in psoriasis. Inducer T cells within the epidermis were almost exclusively of the 4B4+ 2H4- "memory" T-cell subpopulation, whereas 4B4- 2H4+ "naive" T cells were extremely uncommon in lesional epidermis. Similar results were obtained for dermal T cells in all diseases studied, i.e., 4B4- 2H4+ "naive" T cells were relatively rare. Papillary dermis infiltration by T cells was highest in lichen planus where a mean CD4/mean CD8 ratio of 1.10, the minimum in this comparative study, was obtained. The mean CD4/mean CD8 ratio of the papillary infiltrate was highest in atopic dermatitis (4.12). Our results indicate disease-specific and significantly different infiltration patterns of T lymphocyte subsets in the chronic inflammatory dermatoses investigated.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525011 TI - Bronchoscopic phototherapy at comparable dose rates: early results. AB - Photodynamic therapy is a recently introduced treatment for surface malignancies. Since January 1987, 10 patients with endobronchial neoplasms have had bronchoscopic photodynamic therapy at similar dose rates (400 mW/cm) for total atelectasis (2), carinal narrowing with respiratory insufficiency (2), or partial obstruction without collapse (4). Two patients underwent photodynamic therapy as a preliminary to immunotherapy. Histologies included endobronchial metastases (colon, ovary, melanoma, and sarcoma, 1 each; and renal cell, 3) and primary lung cancer (3). The 2 patients with total atelectasis had complete reexpansion after photodynamic therapy, which permitted eventual sleeve lobectomy in 1. Carinal narrowing was ameliorated in the 2 patients seen with inspiratory stridor, thereby permitting hospital discharge. Endoscopically resected fragments after photodynamic therapy exhibited avascular necrosis. These data support further controlled studies of photodynamic therapy by thoracic surgical oncologists to define its limitations as well as to improve and expand its efficacy as a palliative or surgical adjuvant. PMID- 2525010 TI - Rosacea: disturbed defense against brain overheating. AB - Tympanic (Tty), esophageal (Tes), forehead, and hand skin temperatures, as well as the forehead evaporation rate were recorded in six men (four suffering from rosacea and two healthy controls) before, during, and after 1 h of warm bath (38 degrees-39 degrees C). During the last 30 min of the bath, the subject's face was vigorously fanned (14 m/s). Blood flow was explored with ultrasonic Doppler in the emissary veins of the cranium during normothermia before entering the bath, and during hyperthermia just after leaving it. Under normothermic conditions, Tty was higher than Tes in all subjects. In three patients, no blood flow could be detected in the ophthalmic emissary veins whereas in the fourth patient as well as in both control subjects, blood flowed from the intracranium to the face. During hyperthermia, face fanning decreased Tty by 0.25 degrees +/- 0.05 degrees C (+/- SEM) below Tes in the control subjects whereas in all patients Tty remained warmer than Tes by 0.1 degrees C. Doppler recordings showed a rapid inward blood flow from the skin to the brain in the controls during hyperthermia. In patients, however, there was no change from normothermia in the blood flow patterns of vena angularis oculi. Their forehead temperature was permanently higher than in control subjects. Venous blood flow from the skin to the brain appears to be suppressed in rosacea, thus inhibiting selective brain cooling in hyperthermic conditions. The importance of this mechanism in the pathogenesis of rosacea and its significance as a means of investigation are discussed. PMID- 2525012 TI - Hypertension and sudden death. Disparate effects of calcium entry blocker and diuretic therapy on cardiac dysrhythmias. AB - This study was designed to evaluate the impact of antihypertensive therapy on cardiac dysrhythmias in 13 hypertensive patients who received calcium entry blockers and in 10 hypertensive patients who received hydrochlorothiazide. Mean arterial pressure fell to a similar extent in both treatment groups; however, left ventricular mass index decreased (from 102 +/- 4 to 95 +/- 2 g/m2) only in patients receiving calcium entry blockers, but not in those taking hydrochlorothiazide. The prevalence of premature ventricular contractions decreased 74% from 21 +/- 14/h to 5.7 +/- 6/h in the calcium entry blocker group, but did not change in the hydrochlorothiazide group (15 +/- 17/h to 16 +/- 13/h). Couplets, multiform contractions, ventricular tachycardia, and supraventricular tachycardia were completely abolished after calcium entry blocker therapy, whereas the prevalence of these arrhythmias remained unchanged during treatment with hydrochlorothiazide. We conclude that antihypertensive therapy with calcium entry blockers (but not with thiazide diuretics) reduces left ventricular mass and the prevalence and severity of ventricular dysrhythmias. Whether this reduction will improve the ominous prognosis of left ventricular hypertrophy and diminish the risk of sudden death remains unknown. PMID- 2525013 TI - Long-term immunogenicity of a plasma-derived hepatitis B vaccine in HIV seropositive and HIV seronegative hemophiliacs. AB - Short-term studies indicate that hepatitis B vaccines are safe and satisfactorily immunogenic in hemophiliacs. The duration of immunity in these immunocompromised patients, however, is not known. To determine this, we studied 78 hemophiliacs prospectively 2, 3, and 4 years after the initial vaccination with a plasma derived vaccine given as three monthly injections followed by a fourth booster injection at month 14. The duration of immunity clearly depended on whether the patients were infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). In HIV seronegative hemophiliacs (n = 67), there was a progressive decline in titers of antibody to the hepatitis B surface antigen (anti-HBs), but antibody was still detectable 4 years later in all of them. From the curves of decline of antibody titers, it appears that there is no need to revaccinate patients for at least 5 to 6 years. The HIV seropositive hemophiliacs (n = 11) not only started from much lower anti-HBs titers, but 5 of 11 lost anti-HBs. None of the 45 patients treated with concentrates during the postvaccination period developed serologic signs of hepatitis B, even though 6 of them had come into contact with live or inactivated hepatitis B virus as shown by the occurrence of spontaneous anamnestic antibody responses. This vaccine and schedule of vaccination afford a prolonged duration of immunity in HIV seronegative hemophiliacs, but HIV seropositive hemophiliacs have a risk of losing immunity early. PMID- 2525014 TI - Disseminated echovirus infection in a patient with multiple myeloma and a functional defect in complement. Treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin. AB - A man with IgG1 multiple myeloma developed fever, confusion, and progressive muscle weakness resulting in paralysis. Echovirus type 11 was isolated from cerebrospinal fluid, pleura, pleural fluid, and muscle, and muscle biopsy disclosed changes consistent with viral myositis. Immunologic evaluation revealed low serum levels of polyclonal IgG subtypes 1 and 3, reduced blood levels of T helper/inducer and T-suppressor/cytotoxic cells, and a complement abnormality involving the function of the classical pathway C3 convertase, C4b2a. Therapy with intravenous immunoglobulin was associated with clinical recovery. This is the first reported case of disseminated central nervous system enteroviral infection in an adult with a B-cell malignancy, and in association with a documented complement abnormality. The findings suggest the efficacy of immunotherapy in this disease. PMID- 2525015 TI - Neuroendocrine responses to physostigmine in Alzheimer's disease. AB - To assess central nervous system cholinergic neuroendocrine regulation in Alzheimer's disease (AD), we measured plasma arginine vasopressin, beta endorphin, and epinephrine responses to a cholinergic challenge elicited by intravenous administration of the acetylcholinesterase inhibitor physostigmine (0.0125 mg/kg) in male patients with AD (n = 12) and compared their responses with those of age-matched normal control subjects (n = 12). Physostigmine promptly increased plasma arginine vasopressin (tenfold), beta-endorphin (twofold to threefold) and epinephrine (threefold) levels in elderly control subjects. In contrast, patients with AD showed attenuated responses to physostigmine. When controls and patients with AD who experienced nausea (n = 2 and n = 6, respectively) were excluded, the arginine vasopressin, beta-endorphin, and epinephrine responses of patients with AD were significantly less than those of control subjects. These data suggest that the central nervous system cholinergic deterioration of AD results in decreased responsiveness of neuroendocrine systems that are regulated by central cholinergic mechanisms. PMID- 2525017 TI - Heparin-associated thrombocytopenia and thrombosis syndrome in a rehabilitation patient. AB - Heparin-associated thrombocytopenia and thrombosis (HATT) syndrome is a severe complication of heparin therapy. Since patients admitted for rehabilitation are at high risk for deep-vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, prophylactic doses of subcutaneous heparin are frequently used. We report the case of a 73-year-old woman with a history of heparin exposure, admitted to a comprehensive rehabilitation program for management of severe back pain. The patient was started on subcutaneous heparin. After 18 days of hospitalization, she developed marked thrombocytopenia and a massive venous thrombosis in the right lower extremity. On intravenous heparin therapy, the platelet count continued to decline. The thrombocytopenia resolved with discontinuation of heparin. This case illustrates a devastating complication of heparin therapy and emphasizes that physiatrists should be aware of this acute and preventable drug reaction. PMID- 2525016 TI - Leg-length inequality has poor correlation with lumbar scoliosis. A radiological study of 100 patients with chronic low-back pain. AB - Leg-length inequality and its hypothetical consequences, pelvic tilt and lumbar scoliosis, were measured in 100 young or middle-aged adults suffering from chronic low-back pain. Leg-length inequality had a good correlation with the pelvic tilt assessed from the iliac crests, a moderate correlation with the sacral tilt, but a poor correlation with the lumbar scoliosis. The sacral tilt correlated well with the lumbar scoliosis when the tilt was more than 3 degrees but poorly when it was smaller. Thus, there is a gradually decreasing correlation between the posture parameters when moving from the hips up to the lumbar spine. We conclude that before a radiologically observed leg-length inequality be considered as the cause of low-back pain, an erect-posture radiograph of the whole pelvis and lumbar spine is essential, in order to assess an existing pelvic tilt and scoliosis. PMID- 2525018 TI - Increased radicular pain due to therapeutic ultrasound applied to the back. AB - Therapeutic ultrasound is generally considered safe and effective therapy in a number of conditions producing back pain, provided that no contraindications exist. However, two cases are reported of patients with documented lumbar disk herniation where application of ultrasound to the lumbar paraspinal region increased pain in a radicular pattern. Despite its transient nature, this adverse reaction may represent a relative contraindication to the use of ultrasound in patients with disk herniation. PMID- 2525019 TI - The effect of new monofilament absorbable sutures on the healing of musculoaponeurotic incisions, gastrotomies, and colonic anastomoses. AB - The purpose of this study was to quantitate the effect of two new synthetic monofilament absorbable sutures, Maxon and PDS, on the healing of musculoaponeurotic incisions, gastrotomies, and colonic anastomoses. Wound healing was assessed by measuring the resistance of the closed wound to leak or burst with controlled infusion of fluid. Bursting strength measurements of these incisions were compared with those undertaken in age-weight matched controls without wounds to determine the rate of gain of wound strength. The bursting strength measurements of unwounded tissue was found to vary according to the age, weight, and specific tissue. As the animals gained weight over 42 days, the bursting strength of their colons and musculoaponeurotic tissues significantly increased. In general, the regain of prewounding bursting strength was inversely proportional to the bursting strength of the unwounded tissue. The bursting strength of abdominal musculoaponeurotic tissue was the highest, followed by the stomach and then the colon. The time intervals in which the wounded musculoaponeurotic tissues, gastrotomies, and colonic anastomoses regained the strength of the unwounded tissue was 42, 14, and 7 days, respectively. The performance of Maxon and PDS sutures in the musculoaponeurotic tissues, gastrotomies, and colonic anastomoses was similar. PMID- 2525020 TI - Injuries in the 12th and 13th years of life. AB - From a sample of 850 adolescents, 377 were involved in 550 separate incidents which resulted in 636 injuries requiring medical attention. The most common injuries were sprains or strains, followed by fractures and lacerations. Most injuries were of minor severity. The most common incident resulting in injury was striking against an object or person, followed by being struck by an object or person, and overexertion or strenuous movement. Almost 40% of the incidents occurred during sporting or similar physical activities. Disabilities arising from injury are described. The most common of these were recreational. The implications of long-term and permanent disability are examined. Traditional attitudes toward injury prevention were found to be held by the majority of the sample. Barriers to injury prevention are identified and the Prevention of Injury Programme contained in the Health Education Syllabus for primary school children is described. PMID- 2525021 TI - Readability of health care literature. AB - A sample of health care literature produced for parents was analysed, using the Flesch method, for readability and human interest. As a comparison, the readability and human interest scores were also calculated for Sydney daily newspapers. It was found that the pamphlets produced by government agencies were more readable than those produced by non-government agencies. Those pamphlets written with input from parents were the most readable of all. Similar results were found for the human interest level of the pamphlets. The readability and the human interest scores of the government-produced pamphlets were similar to those of the larger circulation daily newspapers. Health care literature for parents needs to be good quality and easily understood. The involvement of parents in their production may improve the effectiveness of these leaflets. PMID- 2525023 TI - [Controlled reflex and stimulation therapy of functional vertebrogenic pain syndromes]. AB - Myo-vertebrogenous syndromes are the most frequent painful diseases. In physiotherapy methods of adjusted reflex-therapy like manipulations, neural therapy (therapeutic local anaesthesiology) and acupuncture in case of functional disturbances have been proved. We achieved an improvement in 93% of 1167 patients with acquired functional myo-vertebrogenous pain syndromes with the combination of this methods. In a prospective randomised study the superiority of combined reflex-therapy to the usual ambulant medicamentous physiotherapeutic treatment of low back pain syndromes is significant. Therefore special reflex-therapeutic consultations are recommended. PMID- 2525022 TI - Facilitation of inhibitory avoidance by hypertonic saline is reversed by a vasopressin and a nicotinic antagonist. AB - Hypertonic saline (1 ml of 0.25, 0.50, and 1.00 M NaCl, ip) facilitated retention of a one-trial, step-through inhibitory avoidance task when injected into male Swiss mice 10 min after training, as indicated by retention performance 48 h later. A similar result was obtained after a subcutaneous injection of lysine vasopressin (LVP, 0.03 microgram/kg). Neither hypertonic saline nor LVP modified latencies to step-through of mice that had not received a footshock during training. The enhancement of retention produced both by hypertonic saline and by LVP was prevented by the vasopressin receptor antagonist AAVP (0.01 microgram/kg, sc) given after training, but 10 min before the treatments. The effect of hypertonic saline was also prevented by the central acting cholinergic nicotinic receptor antagonist mecamylamine (5 mg/kg, sc). On the contrary, neither hexamethonium (5 mg/kg, sc), a peripheral acting nicotinic receptor blocker, nor atropine (0.5 mg/kg, sc) or methylatropine (0.5 mg/kg, sc), two anticholinergic drugs which are known to act on cholinergic muscarinic receptors, prevented the effect of post-training hypertonic saline. These results suggest that a peripheral osmotic stimulus, probably through an endogenous release of vasopressin, may be behaviorally significant, and are consistent with the view that vasopressin may modulate the activity of central cholinergic nicotinic mechanisms which are critical for the behavioral change observed. PMID- 2525024 TI - Activation of the human epsilon- and beta-globin promoters by SV40 T antigen. AB - We have studied the effect of the SV40 T antigen on expression from human globin promoters fused to the bacterial chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) gene and compared its effect with the SV40 enhancer and the adenovirus E1A protein. We have observed that expression of p epsilon GLCAT and p beta GLCAT (the epsilon globin or beta-globin promoter linked to the CAT gene) was significantly stimulated when cotransfected with a cloned T antigen plasmid into CV-1 cells, indicating that trans-activation of the globin promoters was mediated by SV40 T antigen. Transfection of the p beta GLCAT-SV (p beta GLCAT containing the SV40 enhancer element) into CV-1 cells resulted in a 50-60-fold increase in CAT activity as compared to p beta GLCAT (no enhancer). However, cotransfection of the p beta GLCAT-SV with the cloned T antigen resulted in an additional increase of CAT expression, which suggests that T antigen and the SV40 enhancer activate globin gene expression independently. We found that T antigen but not E1A could further stimulate the expression of an enhancer-containing plasmid in CV-1 cells; whereas E1A but not T antigen could further stimulate p epsilon GLCAT expression in COS-1 cells which constitutively express the SV40 T antigen. These results suggest that T antigen and E1A also act independently. Deletion analysis showed that the minimum sequence required for a detectable level of stimulation of the epsilon-globin promoter by T antigen is 177 bp 5' to the cap site, suggesting that the target sequences for response to T antigen do not reside in the canonical 100 bp promoter region, but rather reside in sequences further upstream, and therefore the cellular factors interacting with T antigen are not the TATA or CAT box binding proteins, but the proteins interacting with upstream regulatory sequences. PMID- 2525025 TI - Stimulation by ATP-Mg2+ and inactivation by cyclic-AMP-dependent phosphorylation of a cytosolic monkey brain aminopeptidase. AB - The activity of a purified cytosolic aminopeptidase (Mr 79,000) from monkey brain was stimulated about 4-fold by ATP-Mg2+. The stimulation was seen with either synthetic aminopeptidase substrates or natural peptides such as enkephalins. Both ATP and Mg2+ were required for stimulation, and ADP did not inhibit the stimulation. Non-hydrolysable analogues of ATP, deoxy-ATP and other nucleoside triphosphates stimulated to a lesser extent compared with ATP, whereas nucleoside mono- or di-phosphates were ineffective. The enzyme did not exhibit any ATPase activity. An ATPase inhibitor, orthovanadate, had no inhibitory effect on the ATP Mg2+ stimulation. The aminopeptidase was not autophosphorylated by [gamma-32P]ATP and Mg2+, but in the presence of cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase underwent phosphorylation on serine residue(s). Phosphorylation resulted in inactivation of the aminopeptidase activity, and also resulted in a decreased stimulation of the enzyme by ATP-Mg2+. PMID- 2525027 TI - Truncated forms of human complement factor H. AB - By the use of Western-blot analyses with polyclonal anti-(Factor H) antibodies, two low-Mr protein species of Mr 41,000 and 37,000 under non-reducing conditions and 43,000 and 40,000 under reducing conditions are consistently detected together with the well-known 155,000-Mr Factor H in human plasma and serum. These two additional species are also found in plasma, urine and synovial fluids. The 41,000-Mr species but not the 37,00-Mr species is detected by a monoclonal anti (Factor H) antibody directed at the N-terminal part of Factor H. The 37,000-Mr species but not the 41,000-Mr species is detected by a monoclonal anti-(Factor H) antibody directed at the C-terminal part of Factor H. The 41,000-Mr and 37,000-Mr species are different from the well-characterized 36,000-Mr N-terminal tryptic fragment of Factor H. They are likely to represent translational products of the short Factor H mRNA species of 1.8 kb and 1.2-1.5 kb occurring in human liver that we have recently described. PMID- 2525026 TI - Effects of deletion of tropomyosin overlap on regulated actomyosin subfragment 1 ATPase. AB - The role of the overlap region at the ends of tropomyosin molecules in the properties of regulated thin filaments has been investigated by substituting nonpolymerizable tropomyosin for tropomyosin in a reconstituted troponin tropomyosin-actomyosin subfragment 1 ATPase assay system. A previous study [Heeley, Golosinka & Smillie (1987) J. Biol. Chem. 262, 9971-9978] has shown that at an ionic strength of 70 mM, troponin will induce full binding of nonpolymerizable tropomyosin to F-actin both in the presence and absence of calcium. At a myosin subfragment 1-to-actin ratio of 2:1 ([actin] = 4 microM) and an ionic strength of 50 mM, comparable levels of ATPase inhibition were observed with increasing levels of tropomyosin or the truncated derivative in the presence of troponin (-Ca2+). Large differences were noted, however, in the activation by Ca2+. Significantly lower ATPase activities were observed with nonpolymerizable tropomyosin and troponin (+Ca2+) over a range of subfragment 1-to-actin ratios from 0.25 to 2.5. The concentration of subfragment 1 required to generate ATPase activities exceeding those seen with actomyosin subfragment 1 alone under these conditions was 3-4-fold greater when nonpolymerizable tropomyosin was used. Similar effects were seen at the much lower ionic strength of 13 mM and are consistent with the reduced ATPase activity with nonpolymerizable tropomyosin observed previously [Walsh, Trueblood, Evans & Weber (1985) J. Mol. Biol. 182, 265-269] at low ionic strength and a subfragment 1-to-actin ratio of 1:100. Little cooperativity in activity as a function of subfragment 1 concentration with either intact tropomyosin or its truncated derivative was observed under the present conditions. Further studies are directed towards an understanding of these effects in terms of the two-state binding model for the attachment of myosin heads to regulated thin filaments. PMID- 2525028 TI - Purification and spectral studies on the Ca2+-binding properties of 67 kDa calcimedin. AB - The 67 kDa calcimedin, isolated by using a phenyl-Sepharose affinity column followed by DEAE-cellulose and gel-filtration chromatographies, was homogeneous by the criterion of SDS/polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis. In non-SDS gels, the protein moved faster in the presence of EDTA, suggesting that Ca2+ binding affects its mobility in a manner similar to other Ca2+-binding proteins such as calmodulin and S-100 proteins. The 67 kDa protein underwent a conformational change upon binding Ca2+, as revealed by u.v. difference spectroscopy and near u.v. c.d. measurements. Tryptophan and tyrosine residues were perturbed upon Ca2+ binding, moving to a more non-polar environment in the presence of Ca2+. Upon excitation of the protein at 280 nm, the fluorescence emission maximum was centered around 325 nm, suggesting that the tryptophan residues are located in a fairly hydrophobic region. Ca2+ addition did not induce a significant change in the intrinsic protein fluorescence intensity at 325 nm. Addition of Ca2+ to the 67 kDa protein labelled with 2-p-toluidinylnaphthalene-6-sulphone (TNS) resulted in a 25% increase in fluorescence intensity, accompanied by a blue shift of the emission maximum from 442 to 432 nm. Hence, the probe in the presence of Ca2+ moves to a more non-polar microenvironment, like calmodulin and other Ca2+ binding proteins. Fluorescence titration with Ca2+ using TNS-labelled protein revealed one class of binding site, with a Kd value of 2 x 10(-5) M. PMID- 2525030 TI - Phosphorylation of phospholamban and troponin I in the ischemic and reperfused heart: attenuation and restoration of isoprenaline responsiveness. AB - Acute myocardial ischemia maintained for 30 and 60 min with subsequent reperfusion did not induced alterations in the cyclic AMP-mediated phosphorylation capacity of phospholamban and troponin I. Inotropic stimulation of the normal heart with 0.1/uM isoprenaline for 2 min resulted in a simultaneous P-incorporation into phospholamban and troponin I to 44.4 +/- 7.5 pmoles P/mg protein and 42.4 +/- 2.9 pmoles P/mg protein, respectively, assayed by a standardized back-phosphorylation procedure. The adrenergic responsiveness, however, was markedly reduced in the time course of ischemia. After an ischemic period of 60 min the adrenergic-stimulated phosphorylation of phospholamban was diminished to 41 per cent of the control value, whereas the increase of troponin I phosphorylation was completely lost. This differential effect can be discussed in terms of the existence of cytosolic compartments for cA, possessing different lability to ischemic injury of cardiac cells. After post-ischemic reperfusion the isoprenaline responsiveness of the phosphorylation of phospholamban and troponin I was found to be normal demonstrating a reversibility at the level of two important regulator proteins, if the transient ischemia do not exceed 60 min period. PMID- 2525029 TI - Aurintricarboxylic acid is a potent inhibitor of phosphofructokinase. AB - Aurintricarboxylic acid (ATA) was found to be a very potent inhibitor of purified rabbit liver phosphofructokinase (PFK), giving 50% inhibition at 0.2 microM. The inhibition was in a manner consistent with interaction at the citrate-inhibitory site of the enzyme. The data suggest that inhibition of PFK by ATA was not due to denaturation of the enzyme or the irreversible binding of inhibitor, since the inhibition could be reversed by addition of allosteric activators of PFK, i.e. fructose 2,6-bisphosphate or AMP. Two other tricarboxylic acids, agaric acid and (-)-hydroxycitrate, were found to inhibit PFK. ATA at much higher concentrations (500 microM) was shown to inhibit fatty acid synthesis from endogenous glycogen in rat hepatocytes; however, protein synthesis was not altered. PMID- 2525031 TI - Effects of hypoxic hypoxia on the kinetics of synaptosomal Ca2+-ATPase activity in newborn piglets and young rabbits. AB - Severe hypoxic hypoxia with electrophysiologically detectable involvement of the brain caused a distinct alteration of synaptosomal membrane Ca2+ATPase activity in newborn piglets (n = 7) and young rabbits (n = 7). This was shown by means of the shifted pCa2+ for maximum stimulation towards higher Ca2+ concentrations and a significant decrease of the maximum activity in both species. Furthermore, an additional stimulation using supramaximum amount of exogeneous calmodulin (tested on piglets) was completely abolished after hypoxia. It is suggested that this effect might influence the fine regulation of neuronal Ca2+ homeostasis also during the posthypoxic recovery period. PMID- 2525032 TI - Mechanism for the reduction of tumour hypoxia by nicotinamide and the clinical relevance for radiotherapy. AB - Nicotinamide (1000 mg/kg; i.p.) enhanced the radiation response of the SCCVII tumour, producing an ER of almost 1.5 in a growth delay assay. Separating tumour cells as a function of fluorescent labelling with Hoechst 33342, suggested that this enhancement may be primarily a result of the elimination of acutely hypoxic cells in tumours. Nicotinamide also decreased mean arterial blood pressure in mice. These results are discussed with respect to their clinical applicability. PMID- 2525033 TI - The effect of chronic hypoxia on the developing cardiopulmonary system. AB - The effect of chronic hypoxia (barochamber, 8 h per day, 5 days a week, stepwise up to 7000 m) on some cardiac functional and metabolic parameters was compared in rats acclimatized either from the 4th day or the 12th week of postnatal life. Pulmonary hypertension and right ventricular enlargement were found in both age group. Whereas in young hypoxic animals the weight of the right ventricle increased linearly with the right ventricular pressure, in adult high altitude exposed rats this relation could not be proved. High altitude induced significant increase of concentration of collagenous proteins: in adult animals increased collagen III only, in young also collagen I. The changes of the energy metabolism were similar in both age groups: activity of enzymes of the lactate metabolism and glucose phosphorylation increased; on the other hand, catabolism of fatty acids decreased. Chronic hypoxemia significantly influenced also the myocardial metabolism in children with congenital heart disease; the aerobic capacity was decreased both in the atrial and ventricular tissue; atrial changes were even more pronounced. The type of changes was, however, different from the rat heart. PMID- 2525034 TI - Partial prevention of calcium paradox in isolated perfused rat hearts by diltiazem. AB - It is well known that excessive calcium entry into the myocardial cells may contribute considerably to damage of the heart caused by postischemic reperfusion. The effect of increased calcium entry on hemodynamics, energy metabolism and histochemically estimated enzyme activities in isolated, perfused (Langendorff) rat heart preparation was investigated using calcium paradox (CaPX) as a model. After a 15 min period of stabilized perfusion of the heart, CaPX was induced at 37 degrees C by 2.5 min lasting calcium depletion (calcium-free perfusion) and subsequent calcium repletion (10 min). Changes induced by CaPX concerned loss of electrical and mechanical activities of the heart, significant decreases in coronary flow and ATP, ADP and the total content of adenine nucleotides in tissue as well as considerable depression in ATPases, SDH, beta HBDH, LDH and glycogen phosphorylase activities in the myocardium. Diltiazem in concentration of 4.0 mumol.l-1 applied prior to calcium depletion and during calcium repletion prevented partially the deterioration of cardiac function by improving contractility and electrical activity of the heart as well as the coronary flow. The effect of diltiazem in concentration of 0.4 mumol.l-1 was less expressed. After both concentrations of diltiazem used, a better preserved ultrastructure, higher activities of the enzymes investigated, significantly higher ATP and total adenine nucleotide levels were seen in the myocardium as compared to the untreated controls. PMID- 2525035 TI - Magnesium monoperoxophtalate: an efficient single oxygen atom donor in DNA cleavage catalyzed by metalloporphyrin. AB - The peracid compound magnesium monoperoxophtalate (MMPP), water-soluble at physiological pH, behaves as a promising oxygen donor in the oxidative cleavage of DNA catalyzed by meso-tetrakis-(4-N-methylpyridyl)porphyrinatomanganese(III) pentaacetate. Shown on cleavage of supercoiled phi X174 DNA, MMPP is significantly more efficient than KHSO5, another recently developed single oxygen atom donor (Fouquet et al., J. Chem. Soc., Chem. Commun., 1987, 1169). PMID- 2525036 TI - Characteristics of the myosin and tropomyosin binding regions of the smooth muscle caldesmon. AB - Limited digestion of caldesmon by alpha-chymotrypsin generates mainly 110, 80, 60, 38, and 28 kDa fragments. Affinity chromatography of these fragments on columns immobilized with myosin, HMM, or tropomyosin showed that the bound fraction from these columns was similar and it contained 110, 80, 60 and 28 kDa fragments. These fragments did not bind to myosin filaments, acto-HMM, actin or tropomyosin-actin in the solution, and they had no effect on the actin-activated ATPase of HMM. In contrast, the flow-through fraction from these affinity columns inhibited the actin-activated ATPase. Binding studies revealed that the 38 kDa fragment and its break down products bound to actin and tropomyosin-actin, and they were released partially from actin by calmodulin with a concomitant increase in the ATPase activity. These results indicate that, unlike the actin binding domain, the myosin and tropomyosin binding domains require the caldesmon molecule to be intact in order to exert their effects on the protein-protein interaction. PMID- 2525037 TI - Inhibitors of cellular proteolysis cause increased secretion from parathyroid cells. AB - The secretion but not the biosynthesis of parathyroid hormone and secretory protein 1 is strongly, negatively regulated by extracellular [Ca2+]. In order to examine the hypothesis that decreased degradation might directly cause increased secretion, we tested the effects of agents that suppress cellular degradation via different mechanisms: 3-methyladenine, chloroquine, and 1-deoxynojirimycin. When secretion was inhibited by high [Ca2+], all agents caused increased secretion, but at low [Ca2+] only deoxynojirimycin was effective. Results derived from the use of two radioimmunoassays for parathyroid hormone suggested that the increased secretion was due to reduced destruction of secretory vesicles by lysosomes, and to reduced proteolysis of their contents by secretory vesicle proteases. PMID- 2525038 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor inhibits proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells stimulated by platelet-derived growth factor. AB - The effect of atrial natriuretic factor (Isoleucine-ANF 101-126) on basal and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-stimulated proliferation of rat aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) was assessed by microscopy and measurement of incorporation of tritiated thymidine by cells cultured with or without addition of PDGF in the presence of various concentrations (10(-8)-10(-6) molar) of ANF. ANF had little effect on proliferation of cells grown in media supplemented with 2% fetal calf serum (FCS) alone but exhibited clear dose-related inhibition of PDGF-stimulated thymidine incorporation. PMID- 2525039 TI - Release of beta-endorphin-immunoreactivity from rat pituitary and hypothalamus in vitro: effects of isoproterenol, dopamine, corticotropin-releasing factor and arginine8-vasopressin. AB - The release of beta-endorphin-immunoreactivity (beta E-IR) from rat pituitary anterior lobe (AL) quarters, neurointermediate lobes (NILs), and hypothalamic fragments was investigated in vitro. The beta-adrenoceptor agonist isoproterenol (ISO) and the hypothalamic neurohormone corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) concentration-dependently stimulated the release of beta E-IR from superfused AL quarters and NILs, but not from incubated hypothalamic fragments. Dopamine (DA) inhibited the release of beta E-IR from NILs and hypothalamic tissue in a concentration-dependent manner, whereas it did not affect the release from AL quarters. Arginine8-vasopressin (AVP) stimulated the release of beta E-IR from AL quarters and hypothalamic fragments, but did not affect the release from NILs. The data indicate that the release of beta E-IR from cells in the pituitary lobes and in the hypothalamus is differentially regulated, but that common principles are involved. In particular, the results provide first direct evidence for an action of vasopressin as a stimulator of the release of POMC-derived peptides in the hypothalamus. PMID- 2525040 TI - Glucose metabolism and hemoglobin reactivity in human red blood cells exposed to the tryptophan metabolites 3-hydroxyanthranilate, quinolinate and picolinate. AB - Glucose metabolism and hemoglobin reactivity in intact human erythrocytes were assessed in the presence of the tryptophan metabolites, 3-hydroxyanthranilate (3 HAT), quinolinate and picolinate. Of these compounds, only 3-HAT altered red cell oxidative status by inducing, in a dose-dependent manner, formation of methemoglobin and non-functional oxidation products of hemoglobin, and by increasing both net glycolytic flux and flux through the hexose monophosphate shunt. 3-HAT also decreased the normal lactate to pyruvate production ratio with pyruvate accumulating at the expense of lactate. These findings are consistent with the auto-oxidative reactivity of quinolinate, picolinate, and 3-HAT in that only 3-HAT undergoes base-catalyzed auto-oxidation (Dykens et al., Biochem Pharmacol 36: 211-217, 1987). Lactate and pyruvate added to the medium in physiologic concentrations uncoupled oxidative glycolysis from reductive glycolysis, resulting in accumulation of pyruvate in the presence of 3-HAT with little increase in total glycolytic flux. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), which accelerates 3-HAT auto-oxidation in vitro (Dykens et al., Biochem Pharmacol 36: 211-217, 1987), exacerbated HAT-mediated oxidative insult by increasing methemoglobin formation, hexose monophosphate shunt flux, and pyruvate accumulation. Persistence of 3-HAT-induced red cell metabolic responses and oxidative damage in the presence of SOD, DETAPAC (diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid) and formate suggests that an organic-based radical, perhaps the anthranilyl radical produced during 3-HAT auto-oxidation, is the proximate agent exerting oxidative stress. Slow rates of auto-oxidation indicate that 3-HAT may be useful as a probe of antioxidant mechanisms in normal and diseased red blood cells. PMID- 2525041 TI - Biotransformation of amlodipine. Identification and synthesis of metabolites found in rat, dog and human urine/confirmation of structures by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. AB - Metabolism of the dihydropyridine calcium antagonist (R,S)-2-[(2 aminoethoxy)methyl]-4-(2-chlorophenyl)-3-ethoxycarbony l-5- methoxycarbonyl- 6 methyl- 1,4-dihydropyridine (amlodipine) has been studied in animals and man using 14C-labelled drug. The metabolite patterns are complex; 18 metabolites have been isolated from rat, dog and human urine. Based on chromatographic and mass spectral evidence, structures have been proposed for the main metabolites and confirmed by synthesis of unambiguous reference compounds. Comparison of all reference compounds and isolated metabolites was made by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry pressure liquid chromatography on-line thermospray-mass spectrometry of underivatised compounds directly in urine. The metabolites are largely pyridine derivatives. The methods used in structure designation are presented, along with the proposed route of metabolism, which indicates that the metabolic pattern for amlodipine in man has features in common with those of both rat and dog. PMID- 2525043 TI - Dysfunction of the mononuclear phagocytic system in sepsis. AB - An in vivo study has been undertaken of the Fc(IgG) receptor-mediated phagocytic capacity of macrophages (clearance of anti-rhesus D-coated-51 Cr-labelled autologous erythrocytes, expressed as half-lives) in 15 cases of sepsis to establish its behaviour and correlate this function to levels of circulating immune complexes (anti-Clq-nephelometry). Five patients with low activity (2261 +/- 859 minutes) developed septic shock; the other ten showed high activity (5.8 +/- 1.5 minutes) and did not develop septic shock. Differences from the control group (30 +/- 12 minutes) were found (p less than 0.001). Receptor activity was related to the presence of circulating immune complexes (p less than or equal to 0.001; delta = 0.862) but not to age, sex, or the presence/absence of splenomegaly during the illness. Eight patients responded favourably; seven patients died; but the receptor activity was not related to this. During sepsis it is possible to find higher Fc(IgG) receptor-mediated phagocytic capacity of macrophages. Excessive formation of circulating immune complexes has a negative influence on Fc(IgG) receptor-mediated phagocytosis. This activity of macrophages, measured at the start of the sepsis, was not associated with the final outcome of the patients' illness (cure or death). PMID- 2525042 TI - Down's syndrome and atherosclerosis. AB - Necropsy findings in patients with Down's syndrome have suggested an absence of atherosclerosis throughout the cardiovascular system, but there are also contradictory results. We compared the left coronary arteries of 15 institutionalised Down's syndrome patients (5 males, 10 females, mean age 51 years) with those of 6 other institutionalised mentally retarded patients (4 males, 2 females, mean age 49) and 20 normal, free-living subjects (10 males, 10 females, mean age 48) by macroscopic inspection of the opened coronary arteries and by biochemical analysis of their intima-media. The arteries of Down patients contained a lower percentage of raised lesions and less calcium than the arteries of the control groups. Thus, even though the coronary arteries of mongoloids were not completely free of atherosclerosis, it was milder than in other mental patients and free-living subjects of the same age. PMID- 2525044 TI - Comparison of mivacurium and suxamethonium administered by bolus and infusion. AB - Mivacurium chloride is a new, short-acting nondepolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent presently undergoing clinical evaluation. The neuromuscular effects of mivacurium and suxamethonium given by bolus and infusion were compared in adult patients during nitrous oxide-oxygen-opioid anaesthesia. Neuromuscular block was monitored by recording the compound electromyogram of the adductor pollicis muscle resulting from supramaximal train-of-four stimuli applied to the ulnar nerve. Time to onset of complete block and recovery to T5 were significantly shorter for suxamethonium than for mivacurium (1.0 (0.1) v. 2.5 (0.3) min and 6.4 (0.7) v. 17.5 (1.8) min; mean (SEM]. Conditions for tracheal intubation were similar in the two groups although intubation was performed 0.75-1.3 min later following mivacurium. The infusion rate required to maintain neuromuscular block was 88.6 (10.4) micrograms kg-1 min-1 for suxamethonium and 7.8 (1.2) micrograms kg-1 min-1 for mivacurium. There was a significant negative correlation between recovery to T5 and infusion rate for mivacurium and for suxamethonium. It was equally easy to titrate the infusion rate to the desired degree of block in each group. The recovery index (T25-T75) after the infusion stopped was similar in patients who received mivacurium and those who received suxamethonium. PMID- 2525045 TI - Epidermal dysplasia and cyclosporine therapy in renal transplant patients: a comparison with azathioprine. AB - The prevalence of dysplastic cutaneous lesions was determined in a group of 68 renal transplant patients whose immunosuppressive therapy included cyclosporine but not azathioprine. The mean age of the patients was 41 years (range 17-67), and the mean transplant time was 44 months (range 24-75). Dysplastic cutaneous lesions were found in 14 out of 68 patients, a prevalence of 20.6%. Although the lesions arose on sun-exposed sites, there was no apparent correlation with previous sun-exposure. The cumulative prevalence of dysplastic cutaneous lesions in 64 patients who had received cyclosporine for between 24 and 72 months was compared with 33 renal transplant patients who had been treated with azathioprine over a similar period of time. The overall prevalence of cutaneous dysplasia was 22% in the cyclosporine group and 9% in the azathioprine group. The cumulative prevalence of cutaneous dysplasia in the cyclosporine group was greater at all time points studied. In contrast to previous reports, we have found no evidence that the risk of cutaneous malignancy in patients treated with cyclosporine is less than that found in patients maintained on azathioprine. PMID- 2525047 TI - Fixed drug eruptions: 77 cases from 1981 to 1985. PMID- 2525046 TI - Drug interactions with methotrexate. PMID- 2525048 TI - Lipoprotein a inhibits streptokinase-mediated activation of human plasminogen. AB - Lipoprotein a [Lp(a)] inhibits human plasminogen (Pg) conversion to plasmin (Pm) by streptokinase- (SK-) mediated activation. Kinetic and binding studies indicate that Lp(a) inhibits Pg activation by competitive and uncompetitive inhibition. Lp(a) competes with Pg for SK and forms a stable complex. Lp(a) does not, however, inhibit Pg activation by the proteolytic SK-Pm complex. The SK-Pg and SK Pg(act) intermediate complexes are possible targets of the Lp(a) uncompetitive inhibition. The competitive inhibition constant (Kic) is 45 nM or 14 mg/dL, and the uncompetitive inhibition constant (Kiu) is 140 nM or 42 mg/dL, corresponding to physiologic and pathophysiologic Lp(a) concentrations, respectively. PMID- 2525049 TI - Membrane solubilization by detergent: use of brominated phospholipids to evaluate the detergent-induced changes in Ca2+-ATPase/lipid interaction. AB - The solubilization and delipidation of sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase by different nonionic detergents were measured from changes in turbidity and recovery of intrinsic fluorescence of reconstituted ATPase in which tryptophan residues had been quenched by replacement of endogenous phospholipids with brominated phospholipids. It was found that incorporation of C12E8 or dodecyl maltoside (DM) at low concentrations in the membrane, resulting in membrane "perturbation" without solubilization, displaced a few of the phospholipids in contact with the protein; perturbation was evidenced by a parallel drop in ATPase activity. As a result of further detergent addition leading to solubilization, the tendency toward delipidation of the immediate environment of the protein was stopped, and recovery of enzyme activity was observed, suggesting reorganization of phospholipid and detergent molecules in the solubilized ternary complex, as compared to the perturbed membrane. After further additions of C12E8 or DM to the already solubilized membrane, the protein again experienced progressive delipidation which was only completed at a detergent concentration about 100-fold higher than that necessary for solubilization. Delipidation was correlated with a decrease in enzyme activity toward a level similar to that observed during perturbation. On the other hand, Tween 80, Tween 20, and Lubrol WX failed to solubilize SR membranes and to induce further ATPase delipidation when added after preliminary SR solubilization by C12E8 or dodecyl maltoside. For Tween 80, this can be related to an inability to solubilize pure lipid membrane; in contrast, Tween 20 and Lubrol WX were able to solubilize liposomes but not efficiently to solubilize SR membranes. In all three cases, insertion of the detergent in SR membranes is, however, demonstrated by perturbation of enzyme activity. Correlation between detergent structure and ability to solubilize and delipidate the ATPase suggests that one parameter impeding ATPase solubilization might be the presence of a bulky detergent polar headgroup, which could not fit close to the protein surface. We also conclude that in the active protein/detergent/lipid ternary complexes, solubilized by C12E8 or dodecyl maltoside, most phospholipids remain closely associated with the ATPase hydrophobic surface as in the membranous form. Binding of only a few detergent molecules on this hydrophobic surface may be sufficient for inhibition of ATPase activity observed at high ATP concentration, both during perturbation and in the completely delipidated, solubilized protein.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2525050 TI - Regeneration of bovine and octopus opsins in situ with natural and artificial retinals. AB - We consider the problem of color regulation in visual pigments for both bovine rhodopsin (lambda max = 500 nm) and octopus rhodopsin (lambda max = 475 nm). Both pigments have 11-cis-retinal (lambda max = 379 nm, in ethanol) as their chromophore. These rhodopsins were bleached in their native membranes, and the opsins were regenerated with natural and artificial chromophores. Both bovine and octopus opsins were regenerated with the 9-cis- and 11-cis-retinal isomers, but the octopus opsin was additionally regenerated with the 13-cis and all-trans isomers. Titration of the octopus opsin with 11-cis-retinal gave an extinction coefficient for octopus rhodopsin of 27,000 +/- 3000 M-1 cm-1 at 475 nm. The absorption maxima of bovine artificial pigments formed by regenerating opsin with the 11-cis dihydro series of chromophores support a color regulation model for bovine rhodopsin in which the chromophore-binding site of the protein has two negative charges: one directly hydrogen bonded to the Schiff base nitrogen and another near carbon-13. Formation of octopus artificial pigments with both all trans and 11-cis dihydro chromophores leads to a similar model for octopus rhodopsin and metarhodopsin: there are two negative charges in the chromophore binding site, one directly hydrogen bonded to the Schiff base nitrogen and a second near carbon-13. The interaction of this second charge with the chromophore in octopus rhodopsin is weaker than in bovine, while in metarhodopsin it is as strong as in bovine. PMID- 2525052 TI - Inhibition of basal and calmodulin-activated Ca2+-pump ATPase by fractionated compound 48/80. AB - Compound 48/80 (48/80), a mixture of polycationic compounds was fractionated using affinity chromatography on calmodulin-Sepharose. Unfractionated 48/80 and various fractions were tested for their potential inhibitory effects on ATPase activities of isolated human red blood cell membranes. ATPase activities tested included: Mg2+-ATPase, the Na+/K+-pump ATPase, and the Ca2+-pump ATPase in both its basal (calmodulin-independent) and calmodulin-activated state. Neither 48/80 nor its various fractions were very potent or efficacious inhibitors of the Mg2+ ATPase or the Na+/K+-pump ATPase. In agreement with previous reports, 48/80 was found to be an inhibitor of the calmodulin-activated Ca2+-pump ATPase. By contrast, we found that unfractionated, as well as some fractionated, material inhibited both the basal (calmodulin-independent) and calmodulin-activated Ca2+ pump ATPase activity. A fraction designated as Fraction III bound to calmodulin Sepharose in the presence of Ca2+ and low salt and was eluted in the absence of Ca2+ and 0.15 M NaCl. By gel filtration, Fraction III had an apparent average molecular weight of 2064 (1320 for unfractionated material). Fraction III was the most potent inhibitor of the Ca2+-pump ATPase with IC50 values for the basal and calmodulin-activated forms of the enzyme of 0.6 and 1.2 micrograms/ml, respectively. Inhibition by Fraction III was cooperative with n apparent values of 2.4 and 5.7, respectively, for the basal and calmodulin-activated forms of the enzyme. Thus, binding of 48/80 constituents to calmodulin can not fully account for the observed data. Direct interaction of 48/80 constituent(s) with the enzyme and/or the lipid portion of the membrane is suggested. PMID- 2525051 TI - Sidedness of yeast plasma membrane vesicles and mechanisms of activation of the ATPase by detergents. AB - The binding of concanavalin A and of fluorescein 5'-isothiocyanate indicate similar amount of right-side-out and inside-out vesicles in plasma membrane vesicles from either glucose-starved or glucose-fermenting yeast cells. These vesicles contain low-activity and high-activity states of the ATPase, respectively. Unmasking of latent active sites can explain the limited ATPase activation (about 2-fold) produced by several detergents on both kinds of vesicles. On the other hand, lysophosphatidic acid (oleoyl) produces a 7-fold activation of the ATPase in vesicles from glucose-starved cells. This effect is accompanied by a change in Km of the enzyme and probably reflects a direct action of the detergent on the ATPase. A similar activation and Km change can be obtained by sonication of the vesicles, although in this case soybean phospholipids are required for maximal activity. Apparently the low-activity state of the yeast plasma membrane ATPase can be activated not only by glucose metabolism 'in vivo' (mechanism unknown) but also by some detergents and physical treatments 'in vitro'. Experiments with purified ATPase from glucose-starved cells also indicate that lysophosphatidic acid (oleoyl) specifically activates the enzyme. These results suggest a note of caution on considering the usual interpretation of the effects of detergents on membrane enzymes, which only take into account the unmasking of latent active sites. PMID- 2525053 TI - The acceleration of linear DNA during pulsed-field gel electrophoresis. AB - The velocity and orientation of T4 and lambda DNA have been measured for the first 20 s during pulsed-field gel electrophoresis in order to clarify the DNA motions that occur. For a square pulse with field strength E = 10 V/cm, the velocity of lambda DNA increases gradually to 10.5 microns/s in 1.0 s, declines to 8.6 microns/s, and then rises to a plateau value of 9.3 microns/s after 4 s. T4 DNA behaves similarly, but more slowly. Parallel measurements of fluorescence detected linear dichroism show that the DNA becomes substantially aligned with its chain axis parallel to the electrophoretic field E after the pulse is applied. The alignment also shows an overshoot, an undershoot, and a plateau comparable to those seen for velocity. When the field strength increases, both the velocity and the alignment reach their peaks more quickly. For all field strengths and both molecular weights, the velocity peak occurs when the molecular center of mass has moved 0.3 to 0.5 L, where L is the chain contour length. A qualitative model is provided. PMID- 2525054 TI - TCR gamma delta bearing lymphocyte clones with lymphokine-activated killer activity against autologous leukemic cells. AB - Activated T lymphocytes with the T-cell receptor (TCR) gamma delta (CD3+ and TCR delta 1+) exhibit strong cytotoxic activity against the standard natural killer (NK) and lymphokine-activated killer (LAK) sensitive target cells. In order to test the cytotoxic activity of gamma delta T lymphocytes against autologous leukemic cells, 84 clones of gamma delta T lymphocytes were obtained from the peripheral blood of three acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients. Forty-four of these T-cell clones were active against an LAK-sensitive cell line and the other 40 were active against K562, an NK target cell line. In each of the three patients, cytotoxic clones against autologous leukemic cells were obtained. Among the 84 clones, ten were able to kill autologous tumor cells, including eight that lyse the LAK-sensitive target and two with NK activity. The clones were highly cytotoxic, stable, and easily expanded in large quantity. PMID- 2525055 TI - T-cell receptor delta gene rearrangement in childhood T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. AB - During the development of functional T lymphocytes, a variety of genes involved in antigen recognition undergo somatic rearrangement. These include the alpha, beta, and gamma chain genes. Recently a fourth rearranging gene, the delta chain gene, embedded in the alpha chain locus, has been described. We have determined the structure of the beta, gamma, and delta chain genes in 15 cases of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) representing stage I (CD7+, CD1-, CD3-) and stage II (CD7+, CD1+, CD3-) of intrathymic T-cell development. The alpha-delta locus was rearranged in 14 of the 15 cases. In three cases the delta constant region was deleted on both chromosomes, suggesting biallelic V-J alpha rearrangement. A limited pattern of rearrangement of the delta locus was observed in the remaining 11 cases. When the alpha-delta region was rearranged, there was rearrangement of the beta and gamma TcR in all cases except two; in these cases the beta chain was in the germline configuration. These findings support the hypothesis that delta chain gene rearrangement is an early event in T-cell development, possibly contemporary to gamma gene rearrangement, and that the delta locus has a limited repertoire. PMID- 2525056 TI - Lack of involvement of the c-fms and N-myc genes by chromosomal translocation t(2;5)(p23;q35) common to malignancies with features of so-called malignant histiocytosis. AB - We report the molecular, cytogenetic, and immunologic characterization of three hematologic malignancies that contained characteristic t(2;5) chromosomal translocations. The clinicopathologic features in all three cases fit the disease spectrum of so-called malignant histiocytosis (MH). All cases expressed activation antigens including Ki-1 (CD 30), but no lineage-restricted pattern of cellular antigen expression was observed. Cell lines SUP-M2 and SU-DHL-1 established from two of the cases showed rearranged beta T-cell receptor (beta TCR) genes nonproductive of full-length beta TCR mRNA and therefore not helpful in unequivocal establishment of lineage derivation. The common cytogenetic feature was a reciprocal translocation between chromosomes 2 and 5, involving bands 2p23 and 5q35 near the reported chromosomal locations of the N-myc and c fms genes, respectively. Normal-sized and truncated c-fms RNAs were observed in both cell lines, whereas no N-myc transcripts were detected. Sequence analysis of the truncated fms RNA showed that it consisted of the 3' half of the c-fms mRNA, but its derivation was not the result of a structural alteration of the c-fms gene. Our studies show that the t(2;5) does not involve the N-myc and c-fms protooncogenes and that this cytogenetic abnormality may be characteristic of a subset of primitive malignancies with an indeterminate lineage but with clinicopathologic features of so-called MH. PMID- 2525058 TI - Neck sprains after car accidents. PMID- 2525059 TI - Contemporary flow meters: an assessment of their accuracy and reliability. AB - The accuracy, reliability and cost effectiveness of 5 currently marketed flow meters have been assessed. The mechanics of each meter is briefly described in relation to its accuracy and robustness. The merits and faults of the meters are discussed and the important features of flow measurements that need to be taken into account when making diagnostic interpretations are emphasised. PMID- 2525057 TI - Androgen and glucocorticoid receptor-mediated inhibition of cell proliferation by medroxyprogesterone acetate in ZR-75-1 human breast cancer cells. AB - Medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) is a synthetic progestin, currently used in the adjuvant treatment of advanced breast cancer, which induces remission rates (30 40%) comparable to those obtained with other types of endocrine therapies. Since, in addition to its progestin-like action, MPA exhibits androgen- and glucocorticoid-like activities in other tissues, the present study was designed to assess the relative contribution of the different steroid receptor systems in the direct action of MPA on breast cancer cell growth, using the ZR-75-1 human mammary carcinoma cell line as an in vitro model. Unlike pure progestins, MPA potently inhibited the proliferation of ZR-75-1 cells in a concentration dependent manner either in the presence or in the absence of estrogens, and the addition of insulin had only marginal effects on its growth-inhibitory activity. On the other hand, both hydroxyflutamide (OHF, a non-steroidal monospecific antiandrogen) and RU486 (a potent antiglucocorticoid and antiprogestin also endowed with antiandrogenic activity) competitively reversed MPA antiproliferative effects. MPA further decreased the growth of ZR-75-1 cells co incubated with maximally inhibitory concentrations of either 5 alpha dihydrotestosterone (DHT) or dexamethasone (DEX), although at about 300-fold higher MPA concentrations with DHT-treated than with DEX-treated ZR-75-1 cells, thus demonstrating a highly predominant androgenic effect. However, MPA had no effect on the growth of ZR-75-1 cells co-incubated with DHT and DEX simultaneously, thus supporting the predominant role of androgen and glucocorticoid receptors in MPA action. A 12-day preincubation of ZR-75-1 cells with increasing concentrations of MPA (10(-12) to 3 x 10(-6)M) decreased the specific uptake of [3H]estradiol (E2) by intact cell monolayers to the same extent as 10 nM DHT, an effect which was competitively blocked by the addition of OHF (3 microM). MPA action on ZR-75-1 cell growth also significantly differed from that of progestins in being additive to the inhibition of E2-stimulated growth by the steroidal antiestrogen ICI164384. The present data indicate that the main action of MPA on ZR-75-1 human breast cancer cell growth is due to its androgen receptor-mediated inhibitory action, while its glucocorticoid-like activity could play an additional role at high concentrations. PMID- 2525060 TI - High affinity [3H]paroxetine binding to serotonin uptake sites in human brain tissue. AB - [3H]Paroxetine binding to human brain tissue was characterized. Competition studies in the putamen and frontal cortex revealed single-site binding models for binding sensitive to 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) (Ki 1-3 microM) and citalopram (Ki 0.6 nM), which displaced the same amount of binding. However, desipramine, norzimeldine and fluoxetine displaced additional binding (10-20%) and these competitors fitted two-site binding models with high affinity components in the nanomolar range and low affinity components in the micromolar range. The high affinity components approximated the 5-HT- and citalopram-sensitive binding fraction. Most of the [3H]paroxetine binding sites were protease-sensitive, but the low-affinity (microM) sites appeared to be protease-resistant. Based on these findings, only the [3H]paroxetine binding representing the fraction sensitive to 30 microM 5-HT (or e.g. 0.3 microM norzimeldine), was regarded as specific binding. This binding fraction was saturable with an apparent binding affinity (Kd) of 0.03-0.05 nM throughout the brain. The highest binding densities were obtained in the hypothalamus and substantia nigra (Bmax 500 fmol/mg protein). The basal ganglia reached intermediate densities (Bmax 200 fmol/mg protein), whereas cortical areas had low Bmax values (less than 100 fmol/mg protein). The lowest B max value was noted in cerebellar cortex (30 fmol/mg protein). The [3H]paroxetine binding was competitively inhibited by low concentrations of 5-HT, imipramine and norzimeldine, suggesting that the substrate recognition site for 5-HT uptake was labeled. Compounds active at dopaminergic, noradrenergic, histaminergic, 5-HT1, 5 HT2 and cholinergic muscarinic sites did not affect the binding at 100 microM concentrations. It is concluded that [3H]paroxetine is a marker for the 5-HT uptake site in the human brain, provided that an adequate pharmacological definition of specific binding is performed. PMID- 2525061 TI - Inhibition of high affinity choline transport attenuates both cholinergic and non cholinergic effects of ethylcholine aziridinium (AF64A). AB - Ethylcholine aziridinium (AF64A) has been proposed as a specific cholinergic neurotoxin. In earlier studies, using AF64A, we reported that slow infusion of 1 2 nmol of this compound into each lateral ventricle of Sprague-Dawley rats resulted in small, and transient decreases in noradrenaline (NA) and serotonin (5 HT) levels in the hippocampus, while inducing a permanent and significant cholinergic hypofunction in the same brain region. The experiments described in this paper were designed to test the hypothesis that such noradrenergic and serotonergic changes after small doses of AF64A are secondary to the changes observed in cholinergic neurons. Levels of NA, and of 5-HT and its metabolite 5 hydroxyindole acetic acid (5-HIAA) were measured concurrently with levels of acetylcholine (ACh), in various brain regions of rats in which the effect of AF64A was attenuated, and in respective control animals. The effect of AF64A was diminished by inhibiting the interaction of AF64A with the high affinity transport site for choline (HAChT). This was achieved using hemicholinium-3 (HC 3), which does not cross the blood-brain barrier, and A-4 (a bis 4 methylpiperidine analog of HC-3), which is centrally active following its peripheral administration. A-4 (20 or 40 mg/kg i.p.) or HC-3 (10 micrograms/ventricle) had no effect on ACh, NA, 5-HT or 5-HIAA levels in saline treated rats. However, all treatments significantly attenuated the decrease in ACh content produced by AF64A pretreatment. Transient decreases in NA, 5-HT and 5 HIAA contents after AF64A treatment were prevented or reduced by prior treatment with A-4 or HC-3. These results indicate that changes in noradrenergic and serotonergic neurons following AF64A administration are not due to non-specific toxicity of AF64A, but may be the result of adaptation of these neurons to withdrawal of cholinergic input, which would normally inhibit the release of NA and 5-HT. These results also indicate that AF64A can be used to produce specific lesions of hippocampal cholinergic nerve terminals. PMID- 2525062 TI - Role of D1 and D2 dopamine receptors in mediating locomotor activity elicited from the nucleus accumbens of rats. AB - The present study examined the role of D1 and D2 receptors in mediating locomotor activity induced by dopamine (DA) agonists after injection into the nucleus accumbens (Acb). The D1 receptor agonist SKF38393 (as the racemic mixture) induced a dose-related increase in activity when injected bilaterally (1-10 micrograms/side). At a dose of 1 microgram/side, only the R-enantiomer was active. The SKF38393 (10 micrograms/side)-induced activity was antagonized by the D1 receptor antagonist SCH23390 (0.5 mg/kg i.p.), by the D2 receptor antagonist spiperone (0.1 mg/kg, i.p.), but not by the 5-HT2 antagonist ketanserin (1 mg/kg, i.p.). Another D1 agonist, CY208 243, also induced a moderate increase in activity when injected into the Acb (2 and 8 micrograms/side), but this was of much less intensity and of shorter duration than that produced by SKF38393. The D2 receptor agonist quinpirole slightly increased activity when administered into the Acb (0.3-3 micrograms/side), with the magnitude and duration of the response, however, being much less than that produced by SKF38393. The locomotor stimulant effects of SKF38393 (5 micrograms/side), CY208 243 (2 micrograms/side) and quinpirole (1 microgram/side) were blocked by the depletion of catecholamines with reserpine (5 mg/kg s.c., 24 h pretreatment) and alpha-methyl-p-tyrosine (200 mg/kg, i.p.). However, when SKF38393 and quinpirole were injected concurrently into the Acb at doses of 5 and 1 microgram/side respectively, a marked locomotor stimulation occurred in catecholamine-depleted rats. Furthermore, SKF38393 (1 microgram/side) or CY208 243 (2 micrograms/side), injected concurrently with quinpirole (0.3 microgram/side), into the Acb of rats with intact DA stores produced an at least additive effect on locomotor activity. These results suggest that both D1 and D2 receptor stimulation in the Acb is required for the expression of locomotor effects. Furthermore, D1 and D2 receptors in this nucleus appear to interact positively with each other, and may mediate the additive locomotor stimulatory effects induced by concurrent systemic administration of selective D1 and D2 agonists. PMID- 2525063 TI - Effects of acute and chronic treatments with clozapine and haloperidol on serotonin (5-HT2) and dopamine (D2) receptors in the rat brain. AB - The effects of acute and chronic treatments with haloperidol or clozapine on the binding of [3H]spiperone to D2 and 5-HT2 receptors were examined in 6 discrete regions of the striatum, n. accumbens and frontal cortex using quantitative autoradiography. Acute treatment with haloperidol, 0.1-2.0 mg/kg, i.p., produced a dose-dependent reduction to 60% of control in the binding of [3H]spiperone to D2 receptors in the striatum and n. accumbens and no effect on the binding of [3H]spiperone to 5-HT2 receptors in the striatum, n. accumbens or frontal cortex. Acute treatment with clozapine, 10-40 mg/kg, i.p., produced a dose-dependent reduction in D2-specific binding in both the n. accumbens and the striatum and also significant reductions to 24% of control in the binding of [3H]spiperone to cortical 5-HT2 receptors. Chronic treatment with haloperidol, 1 mg/kg/day, i.p., significantly increased (40-65%) the maximal number of D2-specific [3H]spiperone binding sites in the n. accumbens and the dorsolateral and ventrolateral regions of the striatum, whereas small increases (20-29%) were seen in the ventromedial, dorsomedial, rostral and caudal regions of the striatum. Chronic treatment with clozapine, 20 mg/kg/day, i.p., did not change the maximal number of D2 receptors in the n. accumbens or any region of the striatum. Chronic treatments with clozapine produced a decrease in the maximal number of cortical 5-HT2 receptors to 55% of control whereas haloperidol had no effect. This study demonstrates regional differences in the up-regulation of striatal D2 receptors following chronic treatment with haloperidol and different effects of a typical and atypical neuroleptic on 5-HT2 receptors following acute and chronic treatments. PMID- 2525064 TI - The dentist and the bereaved patient. PMID- 2525065 TI - Restenosis and accelerated left main coronary artery disease presenting six months after successful percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. AB - Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) is widely used to achieve myocardial revascularization because of its high success rate and low rate of complications. A 30% rate of restenosis remains the most serious hurdle to overcome. This phenomenon results from endothelial injury caused by balloon inflation. However, not widely appreciated is that other components of PTCA equipment can cause endothelial injury and lead to new stenoses proximal to the dilated lesion. This phenomenon has serious implications when it involves the left main artery. Described here is a case of restenosis involving the left anterior descending artery as well as accelerated left main disease. PMID- 2525066 TI - Isolation and characterization of cadmium-resistant mutants of Neurospora crassa. AB - This study identified and characterized four cadmium-resistant mutants of Neurospora crassa. One of these mutants maps to linkage group II and the other three map to linkage group VII, whereas a naturally occurring resistant trait in a strain from Japan resides at a distinct but unmapped locus. Transport of cadmium into Neurospora cells occurs by more than a single uptake system and involves both energy-dependent and -independent components. The resistant mutants transport cadmium in the same manner as does the cadmium-sensitive wild-type strain. Cadmium resistance in these mutants does not appear to result from an increase in cytosolic heat-stable cadmium-binding proteins. Cadmium does not induce the typical heat-shock response in conidia. Under various growth conditions, each of the mutants exhibited morphological alterations, possibly involving the cell wall or plasma membrane. PMID- 2525067 TI - Low affinity IgE receptors (Fc epsilon RII). PMID- 2525070 TI - Use of 13C-n.m.r. spectroscopy for the quantitative estimation of 3-O- and 3,6-di O-substituted D-glucopyranosyl residues in alpha-D-glucans formed by the D glucosyltransferases of Streptococcus sobrinus. AB - The 13C-n.m.r. spectra of the three alpha-D-glucans from Streptococcus sobrinus and the dextran from Leuconostoc mesenteroides, which differ widely in the ratios of omega (terminal, nonreducing) D-glucopyranosyl groups: 3-:6-:3,6-linked D glucopyranosyl (Glc) residues, were measured in 0.5M NaOH at 22 degrees. The C-1 signals of 3-O-substituted Glc in a linear sequence, 6-O-substituted Glc in a linear sequence, 3,6-di-O-substituted Glc in a (1----6)-linked sequence, and Glc attached to O-3 of 3,6-di-O-substituted Glc were distinguished from each other. The C-3 signal of 3,6-linked Glc appeared downfield by 0.6 to 1.0 p.p.m. compared to the C-3 signal of 3-linked Glc in a linear sequence. The C-6 signals of omega terminal, 3-linked, 6-linked, and 3,6-linked Glc were also assigned. The C-2 signal of 3-linked Glc in a linear sequence appeared separately, at 73.76 p.p.m. Based on these assignments, the various D-glucopyranosyl residues of the S. sobrinus alpha-D-glucans were quantitatively estimated from the signal areas of the C-2 atom of 3-linked Glc, the C-3 atom of 3-linked and 3,6-linked Glc, the C 6 atom of 6-linked and 3,6-linked Glc, and the C-6 atom of the omega-Glc groups and 3-linked Glc residues. The figures thus derived for the linkage ratios were close to those obtained by methylation analysis. PMID- 2525069 TI - Identification of the metastasis-associated, galactoside-binding lectin as a chimeric gene product with homology to an IgE-binding protein. AB - We report the complete primary and secondary structures of a metastasis associated Mr 34,000 galactoside-binding lectin. The polypeptide sequence (264 amino acids) was derived from the nucleotide sequence of three overlapping complementary DNA clones isolated from lambda gt11 and lambda gt10 phage libraries of UV-induced murine fibrosarcomas. Striking features of the polypeptide sequence are two distinct regions of beta-sheet and globular structures at the amino and carboxy terminals, respectively. Homology search suggests that the polypeptide is a chimeric gene product formed by fusion of the 5'-end of an Mr approximately 14,000 galactoside-binding lectin with an internal domain of the collagen alpha gene. Enzymatic treatment with collagenase confirmed the presence of a collagen-like structure in the polypeptide. Unexpectedly, the entire sequence is greater than 85% homologous to a rat low affinity IgE-binding protein. PMID- 2525068 TI - Human IgE biosynthesis in vitro. PMID- 2525071 TI - [Relation between atrial natriuretic factor and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system in the renal reaction to acute volume loading in patients with essential hypertension]. AB - Investigation of changes of the atrial natriuretic factor plasma concentration (ANF), plasma renin activity (PRA) and the plasma aldosterone concentration (PAC) and their correlation with the renal excretion of urine, sodium and potassium before and after infusion of 2 1 saline in the course of 2 hours in 6 controls and 7 patients with essential hypertension (EH) revealed the same rise of ANF in plasma of both groups (from 2.98 +/- 0.45 to 12.36 +/- 1.74 pmol/l in controls and from 3.80 +/- 0.72 to 15.78 +/- 2.06 pmol/l in EH), a comparable decline of PRA (from 0.91 +/- 0.419 to 0.256 +/- 0.127 nmol/l/hr in controls and from 1.711 +/- 0.324 to 0.714 +/- 0.185 nmol/l/hr in EH), and PAC (from 0.30 +/- 0.07 to 0.14 +/- 0.03 nmol/l in controls and from 0.53 +/- 0.13 to 0.24 +/- 0.06 nmol/l in EH). The comparable rise of plasma ANF concentration during infusion of saline was associated with a significantly higher renal excretion of urine and sodium in EH, as compared with controls. The authors conclude from these results that the ANF release into the blood stream after an acute volume overload in EH does not differ from controls. Thus the raised natriuresis in EH after a volume overload cannot be explained solely by the rise of ANF. Its renal action depends obviously on the interaction with many other haemodynamic and renal mechanisms, and as regards humoral factors, in particular on the interaction with the renin angiotensin-aldosterone system. The inhibitory action of elevated ANF concentrations might participate in the suppression of PRA and PAC after a volume overload. PMID- 2525073 TI - [Initial experience with centralized care of women with bleeding in the climacteric and postmenopausal period]. AB - In 31 women with haemorrhage during the climacteric and postmenopausal period the authors investigated as risk factors of endometrial carcinoma glandular cystic hyperplasia during the perimenopause and signs of oestrogenization of the endometrium in the postmenopausal period. Based on the results of anamnestic data, gynaecological, laboratory and histological examination treatment, incl. administration of gestagens, was outlined. None of the patients who had medroxyprogesterone acetate treatment had a relapse of dysfunctional bleeding or endometrial carcinoma during the one year follow up period. The authors present the results of control examinations after six months treatment. They give an outline of centralized care of risk groups of women in a centre for the pathology. This is a methodological paper, endometrial the basis for a subsequent investigation on the subjects. PMID- 2525074 TI - Emergence of spectinomycin-resistant strains of penicillinase-producing Neisseria gonorrhoeae (PPNG) - Quebec. PMID- 2525075 TI - [The significance of the systolic gradient value in percutaneous transluminal angioplasty]. AB - In the period of 10/1980-12/1985 the authors performed 102 percutaneous transluminal angioplasty operations on 95 patients in the area of pelvic vascular bed and arteries of lower extremities. The authors evaluated the values of systolic gradient before and after the intervention. Computer assisted statistical methods were used in the search of relationship between the value of systolic gradient and duration of clinical improvement after the surgery. There was not any statistically significant relation between the values of S-gradient before and after PTA and the long-term fate of the patients treated by this method. The authors are of the opinion, though, that measuring this value provides a useful information in the course of surgery. PMID- 2525072 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor in the impulse-conduction system of rat cardiac ventricles. AB - A complex network of atrial natriuretic factor-producing cells has been delineated by biochemical and morphological techniques in the rat ventricular myocardium. The chordae tendineae spuriae (CTS; false tendons) contain ANF mRNA and the ANF propeptide (Asn 1-Tyr 126) as assessed by Northern blot analysis, high-pressure liquid chromatography and immunohisto- and -cytochemistry, using three different affinity-purified antibodies: monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies against C-terminal ANF (Arg 101-Tyr 126) and polyclonal antibodies against N-terminal ANF (Asp 11-Ala 37). Two types of cells harboring ANF containing secretory granules constitute the CTS: the majority (Purkinje type I) have ultrastructural similarities with both atrial and classical Purkinje fibers. Purkinje type-II fibers resemble working ventricular cardiocytes. Both cell types harbor a large paranuclear Golgi complex. The subendocardial Purkinje network is also made up of these two cell types. In this location, Purkinje type-I fibers form cable-like structures while Purkinje type-II fibers are either located beneath the former or abut directly on the endocardium. The latter are not separated from adjacent working ventricular cardiocytes by connective tissue septa. Coronary arteries and arterioles, as in birds, are surrounded by a cushion of Purkinje type-II fibers which blend with the surrounding myocardium. These results indicate that, in the rat, the entire intraventricular conduction system is constituted of endocrine cells producing ANF. PMID- 2525076 TI - [Recanalization and dilatation in chronic occlusion of the renal artery: 2 case reports]. AB - The authors describe their experience in two cases of mechanic desobliteration and subsequent percutaneous transluminal angioplasty in a chronically occluded renal artery. It has become obvious that although this surgery has been so far performed only rarely it is technically viable and may exert a favourable therapeutic effect on hypertension of renovascular etiology as well as angioplasty of stenosing lesion of kidney arteries. The paper also discusses a possibility of influencing renal function by this method. The authors arrive at the conclusion that recanalization of a chronic occlusion of renal artery extends the presently relatively stabilized indications for percutaneous transluminal angioplasty in this localization. PMID- 2525077 TI - Phase I clinical and pharmacologic trial of trimetrexate in combination with 5 fluorouracil. AB - Based on the synergy of sequential methotrexate (MTX) and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in vitro and in vivo and the superior antitumor activity of trimetrexate (TMTX) compared with MTX in preclinical models, we carried out a phase I trial of TMTX and 5-FU (fixed dose, 400 mg/m2 per day), both given as 10-min i.v. infusions daily x 5 days, every 28 days. The TMTX dose was escalated from 3.0 to 14.0 mg/m2 per day. In all, 92 evaluable courses were given to 34 patients, half of whom were heavily pretreated with radiation or cytotoxics. Myelosuppression and mucositis were the dose-limiting toxicities but were not different in heavily or minimally pretreated patients; there were five episodes of moderate to severe mucositis. Rash, fatigue, and diarrhea were mild toxicities. Plasma TMTX elimination was biexponential, with a mean t.1/2 alpha of 0.23 h and a t.1/2 beta of 16.7 h. The area under the plasma TMTX concentration versus time curve increased linearly with dose, suggesting first-order elimination. Total plasma TMTX clearance (mean +/- SD) was 14.3 +/- 5.9 ml/min per m2. Renal clearance accounted for approximately 7% of total clearance, indicating biotransformation as the major route of elimination. TMTX was highly protein-bound (97%). Thus, TMTX can be given with 5-FU (400 mg/m2) on a daily x 5-day bolus schedule at the 12 mg/m2 per day dose level, which was the recommended dose of TMTX as a single agent for phase II studies using the 5-day bolus schedule. PMID- 2525078 TI - The efficacy and safety of GR38032F in the prophylaxis of ifosfamide-induced nausea and vomiting. AB - The novel 5HT3 receptor antagonist GR38032F was evaluated in the control of emesis induced by the cyclophosphamide analogue ifosfamide. At a dose of 4 mg q 6 h, GR38032F was given to six patients receiving their first dose of ifosfamide infusion (4-6 g/m2 over 24 h); over the 42-h study period, major control of retching and vomiting was achieved in five patients. In the second phase of the study six further patients, in whom high-dose metoclopramide had failed to control emesis, were given 8 mg GR38032F q 6 h; major control of emesis was again observed in five patients. Toxicity attributed to GR38032F was minimal. This selective 5HT3 antagonist is effective and safe in the control of ifosfamide induced emesis, even in patients resistant to high-dose metoclopramide. PMID- 2525079 TI - Protective effects of ONO 3708, a new thromboxane A2 receptor antagonist, during experimental endotoxin shock. AB - The effects of ONO 3708, a new thromboxane A2 (TXA2) receptor antagonist, on platelet aggregation in human plasma, the survival rate of rats subjected to lethal endotoxin shock, and the pathophysiological consequences of endotoxin shock in anesthetized dogs were investigated. ONO 3708 inhibited dose dependently human platelet aggregation induced by 2.5 microM of STA2, analogue of TXA2. Treatment with ONO 3708, 1 mg/100 g i.v., significantly improved the survival rate of rats in endotoxin shock from 38 to 72% at 24 hr and from 27 to 61% at 48 hr. ONO 3708 significantly attenuated endotoxin-induced thrombocytopenia, but not leukopenia. In anesthetized dogs, endotoxin-induced pulmonary hypertension was completely prevented, and increased airway pressure was significantly attenuated by ONO 3708. These results suggest that ONO 3708, the antagonist of TXA2 receptor, has beneficial effects during endotoxin shock, at least in part by inhibiting platelet aggregation. PMID- 2525080 TI - Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty after non-Q-wave infarction. AB - Non-Q-wave infarction is associated with a significant incidence of infarction and death. We followed 52 patients who underwent percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) within three months of non-Q-wave myocardial infarction. Thirty-eight patients had single-vessel disease, 12 had double-vessel disease, and two had triple-vessel disease. At follow-up at 28 +/- 8 months, all patients were alive. Three suffered a recurrent myocardial infarction during the follow-up period. Nine underwent repeat angioplasty. Four patients had bypass surgery for recurrent symptoms. Only 25% of the patients had angina at follow-up, and all but two were in an improved functional class. PTCA may be used safely in the management of patients after non-Q-wave infarction and results in a favorable long-term prognosis. PMID- 2525082 TI - Coronary angioplasty: current update. PMID- 2525081 TI - Teicoplanin pharmacokinetics and bioavailability during peritoneal dialysis. AB - The pharmacokinetics of teicoplanin in serum and dialysate were examined in a crossover study after intravenous and intraperitoneal administration of a 3 mg/kg dose to five anuric patients who were undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). Blood and dialysate samples were obtained for 30 and 15 days, respectively, and were assayed microbiologically. The principal pharmacokinetic parameters after intravenous administration were as follows: total body clearance, 2.76 +/- 1.08 ml/min; elimination half-life, 377 +/- 109 hours; volume of distribution at steady state, 1.04 +/- 0.18 L/kg. Only 9% +/- 6% of the intravenous dose was recovered in the dialysate and the net peritoneal clearance was 0.25 +/- 0.21 ml/min. Bioavailability values, which were assessed by use of three methods after intraperitoneal administration and while dialysate was retained in the peritoneal cavity for 5 hours (dwell time), were 0.77 +/- 0.21, 0.78 +/- 0.05, and 0.76 +/- 0.08. Changes in bioavailability with dwell time were also examined. A dosing guide, which accounts for changes in bioavailability with dwell time, is presented. PMID- 2525083 TI - Biosynthesis of macrophage colony-stimulating factor (CSF-1): differential processing of CSF-1 precursors suggests alternative mechanisms for stimulating CSF-1 receptors. PMID- 2525084 TI - Management of hairdressers sensitized to hair dyes or permanent wave solutions. AB - Paraphenylendiamine and glyceryl monothioglycolate are among the most common sensitizers in hairdressers. Ordinary vinyl gloves can prevent paraphenylenediamine sensitization, but presently available gloves are either not protective against glyceryl monothioglycolate sensitization or are too cumbersome to use. A new, lightweight Danish "4H" glove, which protects workers against epoxy resin and acrylic compounds, is being investigated for use in protecting against glyceryl monothioglycolate sensitization. Table II lists the principal features of the differential management of patients with paraphenylenediamine and glyceryl monothioglycolate sensitization. PMID- 2525085 TI - [Distribution of beta-endorphin in the digestive system of the rat and prospects for regulating its synthesis by glucocorticoids and dopamine]. PMID- 2525086 TI - Release of human epidermal growth factor from platelets in accordance with aggregation in vitro. AB - We measured the intra-platelet content of human epidermal growth factor (hEGF) and beta-thromboglobulin (beta-TG) and the quantities of these released from platelets during in vitro aggregation. The intra-platelet amounts of hEGF and beta-TG in 10(8) platelets were 104.9 +/- 18.9 (Mean +/- SEM) pg and 2920.9 +/- 149.9 ng, respectively. During platelet aggregation elicited by 9, 11-epithio-11, 12-methano-thromboxane A2, a stable thromboxane A2 agonist, hEGF and beta-TG were released in amounts about 50% and 40% of the respective content in platelets. Also during arachidonate-induced aggregation, hEGF and beta-TG were released at about 60% and 50%, respectively. Various concentrations of thromboxane A2 antagonist, (9, 11), (11, 12)-di-deoxa-9, 11-dimethyl-methano-11, 12-methano-13, 14-dihydro-13-aza-14-oxo-15-cyclopentyl-16, 17, 18, 19, 20-pentanor-15-epi thromboxane A2, suppressed both aggregation and release reactions in a dose dependent manner. There were good correlations between the platelet aggregation rate and released beta-TG (r = 0.9368, p less than 0.01) or hEGF (r = 0.8931, p less than 0.01) and between released beta-TG and hEGF (r = 0.9385, p less than 0.01). These results suggest that hEGF is released from platelets in a similar fashion to beta-TG in vitro. PMID- 2525087 TI - Repression of cytochrome P-450c gene expression by cotransfection with adenovirus E1a DNA. AB - Gene expression of rat cytochrome P-450c (P-450c) depends upon inducible enhancers scattered in the 5'-upstream region of the gene. We show that expression of the P-450c gene is repressed by contransfection with adenovirus E1a DNA, regardless of the presence or absence of inducers, in a transient expression system of HeLa cells. Since cotransfection of either 13S or 12S E1a cDNA was effective in the repression, the region necessary for repression could be separated from that of transactivation of other adenovirus early genes. Moreover, we investigated the regions responsible for the inhibitory activity using in frame deletion mutants lacking internal or external portions of the E1a proteins. The sequence responsible for the repression was located in the amino-terminal half of the E1a proteins. The inducible expression of the chimeric plasmid containing a 24-base-pair enhancer sequence of the P-450c gene placed in a heterologous promoter of SV40 was repressed by cotransfection with E1a DNA, suggesting strongly that the inhibitory effect of the E1a proteins upon P-450c gene expression was caused by blocking the enhancer activity. PMID- 2525089 TI - N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase III, IV and V activities in Novikoff ascites tumour cells, mouse lymphoma cells and hen oviduct. Application of a sensitive and specific assay by use of high-performance liquid chromatography. AB - A specific and fast method for the determination of N acetylglucosaminyltransferase III, IV and V activity in one assay is described. The method is based on the separation by HPLC of the three transferase products formed from the common acceptor oligosaccharide substrate GlcNAc beta 1----2Man alpha 1----3(GlcNAc beta 1----2Man alpha 1---- 6)Man beta 1----4GlcNAc. Assays are not interfered with by substances that result from enzymatic or chemical breakdown of the donor substrate UDP-[14C]GlcNAc. Using this assay system N acetylglucosaminyltransferase III, IV and V activities were estimated in Novikoff ascites tumour cells, mouse lymphoma BW 5147 cells and hen oviduct. PMID- 2525088 TI - Cholinesterases from flounder muscle. Purification and characterization of glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol-anchored and collagen-tailed forms differing in substrate specificity. AB - Flounder (Platichthys flesus) muscle contains two types of cholinesterases, that differ in molecular form and in substrate specificity. Both enzymes were purified by affinity chromatography. About 8% of cholinesterase activity could be attributed to collagen-tailed asymmetric acetylcholinesterase sedimenting at 17S, 13S and 9S, which showed catalytic properties of a true acetylcholinesterase. 92% of cholinesterase activity corresponded to an amphiphilic dimeric enzyme sedimenting at 6S in the presence of Triton X-100. Treatment with phospholipase C yielded a hydrophilic form and uncovered an epitope called the cross-reacting determinant, which is found in the hydrophilic form of a number of glycosyl phosphatidylinositol-anchored proteins. This enzyme showed catalytic properties intermediate to those of acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase. It hydrolyzed acetylthiocholine, propionylthiocholine, butyrylthiocholine and benzoylthiocholine. The Km and the maximal velocity decreased with the length and hydrophobicity of the acyl chain. At high substrate concentrations the enzyme was inhibited. The p(IC50) values for BW284C51 and ethopropazine were between those found for acetylcholinesterase and butylcholinesterase. For purified detergent soluble cholinesterase a specific activity of 8000 IU/mg protein, a turnover number of 2.8 x 10(7) h-1, and 1 active site/subunit were determined. PMID- 2525090 TI - Functional characterization of skeletal F-actin labeled on the NH2-terminal segment of residues 1-28. AB - Rabbit skeletal alpha-actin was covalently labeled in the filamentous state by the fluorescent nucleophile, N-(5-sulfo-1-naphthyl)ethylenediamine (EDANS) in the presence of the carboxyl group activator 1-(3-dimethyl-aminopropyl)-3 ethylcarbodiimide (EDC). The coupling reaction was continued until the incorporation of nearly 1 mol EDANS/mol actin. After limited proteolytic digestion of the labeled protein and chromatographic identification of the EDANS peptides, about 80% of the attached fluorophore was found on the actin segment of residues 1-28, most probably within the N-terminal acidic region of residues 1-7. A minor labeling site was located on the segment that consists of residues 40 113. No label was incorporated into the COOH-terminal moiety consisting of residues 113-375. The isolated EDANS-G-actin undergoes polymerization in the presence of salts but at a rate significantly greater than unlabeled actin. The EDANS-F-actin could be complexed to skeletal chymotryptic myosin subfragment 1 (S 1) and to tropomyosin. The complex formed between EDANS-F-actin and S-1 could not be further crosslinked by EDC but the two proteins were readily joined by glutaraldehyde as observed for native actin-S-1, suggesting that the EDANS substituted carboxyl site is also involved in the EDC crosslinking of native actin to S-1. Moreover, the EDANS labeling of F-actin resulted in a 20-fold increase in the Km of the actin-activated Mg2+.ATPase of S-1. Thus, this labeling, while it did not much affect the rigor actin-S-1 interaction, changes the actin binding to the S-1-nucleotide complexes significantly. The selective introduction of a variety of spectral probes, like EDANS, or other classes of fluorophores, on the N-terminal region of actin, through the reported carbodiimide coupling reaction, would provide several different derivatives valuable for assessing the functional role of the negatively charged N-terminus of actin during its interaction with myosin and other actin-binding proteins. PMID- 2525091 TI - The antiglycogenolytic action of 1-deoxynojirimycin results from a specific inhibition of the alpha-1,6-glucosidase activity of the debranching enzyme. AB - The glucose analogue 1-deoxynojirimycin (dNOJ) and some of its N-substituted derivatives have recently been described as potent inhibitors of the hepatic glycogenolysis induced by glucagon, Ca2+ ionophores or anoxia. The inhibition increased with time, in spite of a persistently high level of phosphorylase a [Bollen, M., Vandebroeck, A. & Stalmans, W. (1988) Biochem. Pharmacol. 37, 905 909]. dNOJ equilibrates within 1 min across the plasma membrane of hepatocytes. It is not phosphorylated or oxidized in the cell. The observation that dNOJ did not affect gluconeogenesis excludes the possibility that glucose-6-phosphatase is the target for the inhibition of glucose production from glycogen. Neither were the catalytic activities of phosphoglucomutase and phosphorylase a affected by the compound. dNOJ and two N-substituted derivatives inhibited instantaneously and completely the alpha-1,6-glucosidase activity of the debranching enzyme, with I50 values in the mumolar range. In contrast, the glucanotransferase activity of the latter enzyme was not inhibited by the compounds at 0.2 mM. The effect of dNOJ was further studied in an in vitro model system of glycogenolysis. The results were compatible with a block of glycogenolysis at the time when phosphorylase has removed the available glucosyl residues from the outer chains of the glycogen particles. This mechanism appears to account for the lag in the response of glycogenolysis to dNOJ. PMID- 2525092 TI - Analysis of genomic clones of the murine U1RNA-associated 70-kDa protein reveals a high evolutionary conservation of the protein between human and mouse. AB - We have isolated and characterised two overlapping lambda EMBL3 clones carrying sequences of the gene for the murine U1RNA-associated 70-kDa protein. The two clones cover around 23 kb of the 70-kDa protein gene including its 3' end. Southern blot hybridisation revealed the existence of a single copy of the 70-kDa protein gene in the mouse genome. The 23-kb-long portion of the 70-kDa protein gene is divided into eight exons. While most of the exons are quite small and are widely scattered throughout the DNA sequence, the last one consists of about 830 bp and encodes 226 amino acids of the 70-kDa protein, including the C-terminus. The predicted amino acid sequence of the region of the 70-kDa protein encoded by the genomic clones reveals high conservation of structure when it is compared with the sequence of the human 70-kDa protein. Interestingly, all deletions, additions and substitutions are localised exclusively within the C-terminus of the protein, accounting for a 5'-3' polarity with respect to protein conservation. Moreover, the analysis of the genomic sequences predicts the existence of multiple subclasses of mRNAs that may arise by alternative pre-mRNA splicing. A 72-bp alternative exon harboring an in-frame termination codon was also found in the mouse 70-kDa gene and shows, surprisingly, 100% nucleotide identity to its human counterpart. PMID- 2525093 TI - Taurine treatment of dyskinesias: an attempt. AB - Taurine is a sulfonic amino acid with inhibitory effects in the central nervous system. The clinical effect of taurine on dyskinesias was tested in an open trial with 14 patients. Taurine (3 g/day) was given orally in divided doses. Six patients showed an initial improvement which, however, did not persist to the end of the 6-week treatment period. No side effects were observed. It seems unlikely that taurine administration will prove effective in the symptomatic treatment of dyskinesias. PMID- 2525095 TI - Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) in type 1 diabetes mellitus. AB - In 10 patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus, platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) was assessed using an in vitro assay based on the stimulation of DNA synthesis in the 3T3 mouse fibroblast cell line. beta-Thromboglobulin (beta-TG) was used as an index for platelet alpha-granules content. Platelet beta-TG content and PDGF were markedly decreased in diabetic patients while plasma beta TG was increased as compared with control subjects. In diabetic patients, a significant negative correlation was found between plasma beta-TG level and beta TG total platelet content, associated with a significant positive correlation between platelet beta-TG content and PDGF. These results suggest that PDGF release might be increased in diabetic subjects. This may account in part for the cell proliferation observed in diabetic angiopathy. PMID- 2525094 TI - Natriuretic factors and lithium clearance in patients with the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH) AB - Because the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH) is a state of disturbed body fluid volume regulation and altered sodium balance we sought to determine if recently described volume regulatory factors were stimulated in SIADH. We measured atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), endogenous digitalis-like natriuretic factor (EDNF) and urinary free dopamine in SIADH (n = 27). We also determined fractional clearance of lithium (FCLi). The data obtained in SIADH were compared with similar measurements performed in sodium retaining hyponatremias, such as those of heart failure (n = 26), liver cirrhosis (n = 19) and volume contraction (n = 28). We observed: ANP was 19.5 +/- 2.7 fM/ml in SIADH; it was significantly lower than ANP in cardiac failure, but no different from ANP in volume contraction. Urinary free dopamine was 2.2 +/- 0.8 microM/24 h in SIADH; this was significantly higher than in volume contraction and liver cirrhosis. EDNF (259 +/- 42 nM/24 h) and FCLi (21.4 +/- 2%) were both numerically higher in SIADH than in other hyponatremic disorders; however, the differences did not achieve significance. In conclusion, our observations did not establish a specific role of ANP in chronic stable SIADH. As to the importance of EDNF, dopamine and proximal tubular fluid reabsorption (FCLi) additional work using acute volume changes may demonstrate their participation in the renal sodium handling of SIADH more clearly than our study did. PMID- 2525096 TI - Myocardial (iso)enzyme activities, DNA concentration and nuclear polyploidy in hearts of patients operated upon for congenital heart disease, and in normal and hypertrophic adult human hearts at autopsy. AB - To investigate biochemical characteristics of hypertrophic myocardium of young and adult humans, we analysed myocardial biopsies obtained from 28 mainly young patients undergoing cardiac surgery for congenital heart disease and 41 autopsied hearts from 18 adult normal and 23 hypertrophic human subjects. Myocardial activities of the enzymes creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase were independent of age during childhood, but decreased significantly with hypertrophy at adult age. Myocyte nuclei showed increased polyploidization during childhood which was progressive with age, and in the adult stage polyploidization was correlated with heart weight. Nevertheless myocardial DNA concentration fell under both conditions, which is to be ascribed to the 'diluting' effect of myocyte hypertrophy. Before an age of 8 years DNA concentration in the child heart material studied has reached the value found in adult nonhypertrophic hearts, although at that time polyploidization of myocyte nuclei in child hearts was only half the value found in adult non-hypertrophic hearts. Biochemical measurement of DNA concentration in peroperatively taken myocardial biopsies may contribute to the in vivo diagnosis of ventricular hypertrophy in quantitative terms, in combination with radiology, echocardiography and histology. PMID- 2525097 TI - Definition of the thymic generative lineage by selective expression of high molecular weight isoforms of CD45 (T200). AB - Selective expression of CD45 isoforms distinguishes naive and memory T cells in peripheral blood. Paradoxically, although the most recent thymic emigrants are CD45R+ CD45 p180-, the majority of thymocytes are CD45 p180+. Speculating that the small subset of thymocytes selectively expressing only the high molecular weight isoforms of CD45 constitute the thymic generative lineage giving rise to peripheral T cells, we characterized the phenotypic and functional properties of CD45 p180- thymocytes. All cells bearing CD45 p180 were removed by rigorous depletion or all CD45R+ thymocytes were removed in a parallel depletion. CD45R- thymocytes were essentially the same in phenotype and CD4/CD8 subset distribution as unfractionated thymus, and dissimilar to naive peripheral blood lymphocyte (PBL) T cells. In contrast, CD45 p180- thymocytes, mainly CD45R+, were CD1- CD38- pgp 1+, corresponding closely to the phenotype of naive CD45R+ PBL T cells. This subset is enriched in CD4+ or CD8+ single positives, includes a high proportion of CD4-8- thymocytes which are predominantly CD3-, and appears to have a medullary location. Approximately 40%-50% of CD45 p180- thymocytes expressed a high density of CDw29 (4B4), which in the periphery is expressed at high density only on CD45 p180+ memory T cells and at low density on CD45R+ naive T cells. However, the expression of high density CDw29 in the absence of CD45 p180 indicates a close resemblance to fetal lymphocytes and suggests an essential role for CDw29 in both the least and the most mature of T cells. If CD45 p180- thymocytes constitute the generative lineage and CD45 p180+ cells are commited to intrathymic death, then the CD45 p180- subset should have enhanced proliferative potential. By combining depletion methods with a limiting dilution assay for clonogenic potential, we found that 100% of the clonogenic precursors present in unfractionated thymus were CD45R+ CD45 p180- cells. This indicates that the CD45 p180+ majority of thymocytes has a very limited capability for proliferation consistent with a commitment to intrathymic death. The clonogenic potential of CD45 p180- thymocytes indicates a greater functional resemblance to PBL T cells than to CD45 p180+ thymocytes. In so far as clonogenic potential in vitro reflects generative potential in vivo, expression of high molecular weight CD45 isoforms appears to define the generative thymic lineage. Our working hypothesis proposes that expression of CD45 p180 implements the mechanism for eliminating thymocytes with self-reactive receptor specificities. PMID- 2525098 TI - The majority of mouse spontaneous rosette-forming cells of thymic origin belong to the Ly-2+ subset. AB - Spontaneous sheep erythrocyte rosette-forming T cells (T-sRFC) found in normal mouse spleen are specific for the xenogeneic species of red cells and are distinct from human E rosettes as illustrated by their persistence after sheep red blood cell (SRBC) incubation with anti-LFA-3 monoclonal antibodies directed against SRBC molecule binding to the E rosette receptor. We confirm here using monoclonal antibodies that T-sRFC are Thy-1+CD3+. Additionally, using cell separation techniques based on panning and cell sorting, it is shown that the vast majority of spleen sRFC have the L3T4-Ly-2+ phenotype. As already shown for anti-Thy-1 antibodies, anti-CD3 and anti-Ly-2 antibodies block rosette formation, whereas antibodies to more abundant cell surface antigens (T200, H-2Db) are not inhibitory. These data suggest that the interaction of T-sRFC with SRBC occurs at or near the T cell receptor. PMID- 2525099 TI - Neonatal induction of allogeneic tolerance prevents T cell-mediated autoimmunity in NOD mice. AB - Diabetes in the NOD mouse strain is a genetically programmed T cell-mediated autoimmune process that is directed against an as yet unknown antigen target(s) on pancreatic beta cells. To investigate whether the course of the autoimmune disease could be altered by immune manipulations of the T cell repertoire, we have induced allogeneic tolerance by injecting F1 semiallogeneic spleen cells into NOD neonates. This procedure resulted in a significant protection against both insulitis and diabetes. However, although it requires the induction of tolerance, as shown by the failure of non-tolerizing irradiated cells to prevent autoimmunity, protection appeared to be independent of the major histocompatibility complex haplotypes of the F1 spleen cells injected at birth, e.g. (C57BL/6 x NOD)F1, (CBA/Ca x NOD)F1 or (BALB/c x NOD)F1 cells. In addition, a similar degree of protection was induced, whether the tolerant state, as assessed by mixed lymphocyte reaction studies in vitro, was of short duration, approximately 6 weeks, or lasted for more than 12 weeks. Putative veto or suppressor functions of chimeric T cells were ruled out, since mice tolerized with T cell-depleted F1 spleen cells were equally protected. We conclude that the expression of spontaneous T cell-mediated autoimmunity can be modulated by immune manipulations at birth. Whether the protection observed in the present experiments resulted from the production of one or several specific holes in the autoimmune T cell repertoire, i.e. cross-tolerance, or whether it resulted from nonspecific disturbances of the emerging T cell repertoire remains to be elucidated. PMID- 2525100 TI - Membrane anchoring and spontaneous release of CD16 (FcR III) by natural killer cells and granulocytes. AB - CD16 is an IgG Fc receptor that is predominantly expressed on human natural killer (NK) cells and granulocytes. The CD16 antigen expressed on neutrophils is a 50 to 70-kDa glycoprotein attached to the plasma membrane by a phosphatidylinositol-glycan linkage that is susceptible to cleavage by phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C (PIPLC). By contrast, treatment of NK cells with PIPLC did not cleave CD16 from the cell surface. Biochemical analysis of the deglycosylated CD16 revealed a substantial difference in the core polypeptides expressed by NK cells and granulocytes. Culture of radiolabeled NK cells resulted in the spontaneous release of a CD16 molecule, smaller than the membrane form of CD16. These findings demonstrate that structural differences exist in the CD16 antigens expressed on NK cells and granulocytes that may potentially influence their functional activities. PMID- 2525101 TI - Inhaled corticosteroids can modulate the immunopathogenesis of pulmonary sarcoidosis. AB - We investigated the effect of inhaled corticosteroids on the phenotypes and functional capacity of macrophages obtained by bronchoalveolar lavage from patients with pulmonary sarcoidosis. The results were correlated with clinical status and therapeutic efficacy. Ten symptomatic sarcoid patients (previously untreated) with radiological parenchymal shadowing and abnormal pulmonary function received inhaled budesonide, 800 micrograms m twice daily via a Nebuhaler for 16 weeks. A placebo group included ten healthy volunteers and five sarcoid patients with similar features to the treated group. Drug distribution studies showed that 10% of the inhaled drug was deposited in the alveolar region. All ten treated sarcoid patients had symptomatic relief with no adverse effects. Three of these ten patients had significant resolution of their radiological shadowing. No significant difference in pulmonary function was observed. At the cellular level, a significant decrease in lavage lymphocytosis was seen after 16 weeks, during which time there was a concomitant change in the phenotype and functional characteristics of the alveolar macrophage population. No similar changes were observed in the placebo group. Our results suggest that inhaled budesonide can modulate the aberrant immunological reactions existent in the lung in pulmonary sarcoidosis, and produce concomitant symptomatic relief with no side effects. It is postulated that this effect may occur through action on the local alveolar macrophage population. PMID- 2525103 TI - [Animal experiment studies of the irritative and allergenic potency of Deshisan]. AB - Deshisan (Manufacturer: VEB Leipziger Arzneimittelwerk) was developed to improve the wound healing conditions. Ulcus cruris is the most important dermatological indication. Animal experiments were performed to examine side effects. The guinea pig maximization test was used to evaluate the allergenic potency. All 19 animals used were negative (control with penicilline: 9 positive out of 18). The acute and subacute dermal toxicity was investigated on the rabbit skin and rabbit eyes. The animal experiments confirmed the clinical findings, that Deshisan is well tolerated by the skin. Allergenic or irritative side effects are unlikely. PMID- 2525102 TI - [Contact eczema caused by pesticides in East Germany]. AB - 19 allergic, occupational contact eczemas and 1 irrative contact dermatitis caused by pesticides from 1985-86 in the GDR are described. The 20 casuistic reports are supplemented with data concerning age, sex, exposure time, patch-test results, occupation site and dermatological details. The following pesticides were determined: maneb, zineb, mancozeb, propineb, thiram, demephion, dimethoate, propachlor, metham-Na, benomyl, chloralhydrate with chloralmethylhalbacetal, carbaryl, dinocap captan, phenyl-Hg-acetate and trichlodinitrobenzene. Each individual case adhered to the recommended test concentration for skin tests. Contact eczemas brought about by the pesticides demephion and trichlordinitrobenzene have not yet to be described. Those working in gardening seem to be particularly prone. PMID- 2525104 TI - A substrate of the cell-attachment sequence of fibronectin (Arg-Gly-Asp-Ser) is sufficient to promote transition of arterial smooth muscle cells from a contractile to a synthetic phenotype. AB - Extracellular matrix components strongly influence the differentiated properties of isolated rat arterial smooth muscle cells during in vitro cultivation. The attachment and spreading of the cells on a substrate of fibronectin or a 105-kDa cell-binding fragment of fibronectin are accompanied by a structural and functional transformation, referred to as a transition or modulation from a contractile to a synthetic phenotype. Here, the ability of the cell-attachment sequence of fibronectin, Arg-Gly-Asp-Ser (RGDS), to promote this process was studied. The results demonstrate that freshly isolated smooth muscle cells attached to a substrate of the synthetic peptide Gly-Arg-Gly-Asp-Ser-Cys (GRGDSC) in a specific manner and as well as to substrates of fibronectin and the 105-kDa fragment. Subsequent spreading of the cells on the peptide substrate followed the same kinetics and was as extensive as on fibronectin, even if protein synthesis was blocked by treatment of the cultures with cycloheximide. Like fibronectin, the peptide substrate induced formation of actin filament bundles, again without ongoing protein synthesis. Moreover, it was as efficient as fibronectin in supporting the transition of the cells from a contractile to a synthetic phenotype as analyzed by electron microscopy. Antibodies against the beta subunit of the fibronectin receptor interfered with the attachment, spreading, and fine structural reorganization of the cells in a similar manner on substrates of fibronectin, the 105-kDa fragment, and GRGDSC. Taken together, the findings indicate that the cell-attachment sequence (RGDS) mimics intact fibronectin in promoting a change in the differentiated properties of arterial smooth muscle cells and does so by interacting with a cell surface receptor for fibronectin. PMID- 2525106 TI - Role of the newborn's sex in mixed maternal-newborn lymphocyte culture reactivity. AB - One-way-stimulated mixed mother-newborn lymphocyte cultures (MMNLC) from male and female newborns were evaluated and compared shortly after delivery. Newborn sex correlated differences were observed in the strength of the MMNLC reactivity with responding maternal as well as newborn cells. The reactivity of MMNLC with responding maternal cells from male as compared to female newborns was significantly less inhibited in maternal and newborn serum. The inhibitory effect of maternal serum on maternal and male newborn lymphocytes in MMNLC seems to be correlated to the sex of the previous child delivered and was significantly lower when the present as well as the previous baby were of the same sex, e.g. 2 boys. The results suggest that fetal-male-specific Y-chromosome-correlated histocompatibility antigens may specifically influence the maternal immune response to her fetus. PMID- 2525105 TI - Psoas muscle pancreatic pseudocyst: CT--US diagnosis and percutaneous drainage. AB - We present 2 cases of psoas muscle pancreatic pseudocysts. In both cases there was no clinical or laboratory evidence of recent acute pancreatitis. The route of extension for the pseudocyst from the pancreas to the psoas was the perirenal space. In both cases the diagnosis was made on the basis of imaging studies and the pseudocysts resolved with percutaneous drainage only. PMID- 2525107 TI - States battle high costs of workers' comp claims. PMID- 2525108 TI - Life tables for Down syndrome. AB - Life expectancy in Down syndrome was calculated to 68 years, using data for 1610 Down syndrome liveborn individuals among over 1.5 million consecutive British Columbia livebirths. Overall, although survival is significantly poorer than for the general population, over half of Down syndrome individuals can be expected to survive into their fifties, and 13.5% will still be alive at age 68. The data are presented as a life table, a practical format for the clinician and planner. PMID- 2525109 TI - Recurrences of trisomy 18 and trisomy 13 after trisomy 21. AB - Between 40 years and 43 years of age, a woman had three consecutive pregnancies with different prenatally diagnosed autosomal trisomies. This is compatible with the view that the predisposition to non-disjunction is not chromosome-specific. PMID- 2525110 TI - MHC- and Igh-unrestricted interaction between L3T4+, Lyt-2- Ts inducer cells and L3T4-, Lyt-2+ Ts effector cells is required for T cell-dependent suppression of DTH to histocompatibility antigens. AB - This paper describes the characteristics of T suppressor inducer (Ts ind) cells which can interact with T suppressor effector (Ts eff) cells and thereby can account for suppression of delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) to alloantigens. Adoptive transfer of spleen cells from mice intravenously (i.v.) injected with allogeneic spleen cells one day earlier induced an antigen-specific state of suppression in the recipients. This became apparent when DTH was induced by subcutaneous (s.c.) immunization of the recipients three days after transfer. The induction of suppression after adoptive transfer of spleen cells required Thy-1+, L3T4+, Lyt-1+2- cells. These cells that by themselves did not exert a suppressive effect induced a state of suppression in recipient mice by activation of recipient-type Ts eff cells. Therefore, the former cell type was classified as Ts ind cell. When athymic nude mice were used as recipients, Lyt-2+ precursors of Ts eff cells had to be transferred together with the Ts ind cells to induce a state of suppression in these mice. The Ts ind cells could activate Ts eff cells in MHC and Igh-incompatible recipients. The results are discussed in relation to previously described immunoregulatory T cell pathways. PMID- 2525111 TI - Resting (IL-2 non-responsive) precursors of human T cell receptor gamma delta positive cells (TCR1 cells) are activated by a two signal process. AB - Precursors of T cells expressing the gamma delta-T cell receptor (TCR1 cells) have been identified in a resting (IL-2 non-responsive) subpopulation of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Activation of the TCR1 precursor cells into proliferating and cytotoxic cells requires two signals, viz. IL-2 and either activated T cells (autologous or allogeneic) or malignant melanoma cells (MM 170). The activation process is inhibited by 0.1 microgram/ml cyclosporine. CD3 expression on TCR1 precursor cells was low, since the precursor cells were not always adequately depleted by OKT3 plus complement. Natural killer cells were generated from the same resting subpopulation of PBMC and by the same set of activation stimuli as were the TCR1 cells, suggesting a common pathway for activation of both cell types. PMID- 2525112 TI - Experimental immune complex disease of the intestine. AB - The effect of immune complex deposition in intestine was studied in a mercuric chloride-induced experimental autoimmune disease model in the Brown Norway rat. Whereas deposition of autoantibodies in a linear pattern along the basement membrane did not lead to any functional changes, presence of immune complexes along the intestinal basement membrane, occurring after week 35 of the experiment, was associated with intestinal protein loss. PMID- 2525113 TI - Activation and binding of opsonic fragments of C3 on encapsulated Cryptococcus neoformans by using an alternative complement pathway reconstituted from six isolated proteins. AB - Encapsulated Cryptococcus neoformans yeast cells are potent activators of the complement system. We examined the interaction of the yeast cells with an alternative complement pathway reconstituted from isolated factor D, factor B, factor H, factor I, C3, and properdin. Incubation of encapsulated cryptococci with the reconstituted pathway led to activation and binding of C3 fragments to the yeast cells that was quantitatively and qualitatively identical to that observed with normal human serum. Incubation with either normal serum or a mixture of isolated proteins led to binding of 4 x 10(7) to 5 x 10(7) C3 molecules to the yeast cells. The kinetics for activation and binding of C3 were identical, with maximum binding observed after a 20-min incubation. Immunoglobulin G was not needed for optimal activation kinetics. C3 fragments eluted from the yeast cells by treatment with hydroxylamine and subsequent analysis by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis demonstrated the presence primarily of iC3b on yeast cells incubated with either normal serum or the reconstituted pathway. Ultrastructural examination of the opsonized yeast cells showed that the cryptococcal capsule was the site for binding of C3 activated from normal serum or the reconstituted pathway, with a dense accumulation of C3 at the periphery of the capsule. Thus, incubation of encapsulated cryptococci in the reconstituted pathway led to deposition of opsonic complement fragments at a site that was appropriate for interaction with phagocyte receptors. Cryptococci opsonized with the reconstituted pathway showed a markedly enhanced interaction with cultured human monocytes compared with unopsonized yeast cells, indicating that the alternative pathway alone is opsonic for yeast cells. However, the results indicate that additional serum factors are needed for optimal opsonization of yeast cells because a 35% reduction in the number of cryptococci bound to macrophages was observed with cryptococci opsonized with the reconstituted pathway compared with that observed when yeast cells were opsonized with normal serum. PMID- 2525115 TI - Fc-epsilon-receptor-bearing lymphocytes in patients with clonorchiasis. AB - Expression of Fc-epsilon-receptors (Fc epsilon R) on peripheral blood lymphocytes was examined in patients with clonorchiasis. Mean serum IgE levels in these patients was 2,518 IU/ml. Fc epsilon R was detected by flow cytometry analysis with monoclonal antibody. The frequency of Fc epsilon R+ lymphocytes and the density of Fc epsilon R on the cells in the patients were similar to those in normal subjects. Most of the Fc epsilon R+ lymphocytes were B cells. The number of Fc epsilon R+ cells decreased after incubation in serum-free medium at 37 degrees C for 3 h. The amount of regulatory molecules of IgE production, IgE binding factor, was not significantly different between the patients and normal subjects. The number of Fc gamma R bearing T or B cells in the patients was also similar to that of normal subjects. These results indicate that the mechanisms of elevated serum IgE in patients with clonorchiasis might be different from other diseases with hyperglobulinemia E. PMID- 2525114 TI - Glucan-binding domain of a glucosyltransferase from Streptococcus sobrinus: isolation of a 55-kilodalton peptide from a trypsin digest of glucosyltransferase prebound to insoluble glucan. AB - We isolated a glucan-binding domain of water-insoluble glucan synthase (GTF-I) of Streptococcus sobrinus B13. Mild trypsin digestion of GTF-I bound to a water insoluble glucan (IG) produced one predominant large fragment (55 kilodaltons). The fragment was easily recovered in IG precipitate. The isolated fragment had the same degree of affinity to IG as did the native GTF-I but no glucan synthesis activity. By the same method, a similar 55-kilodalton fragment was protected for GTF-Sd but not for GTF-Si. Immunological comparisons using specific antisera against the purified glucan-binding fragment of GTF-I from strain B13 indicated that GTF-I and GTF-S have a distinct glucan-binding domain. PMID- 2525116 TI - Microbial flora in the gastrointestinal tract abolishes cytostatic effects of alpha-difluoromethylornithine in vivo. AB - Although treatment with the ornithine decarboxylase inhibitor alpha difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) leads to depletion of intracellular polyamines and to related growth inhibition in vitro, its cytostatic effects in vivo are disappointing. This may be due to abolition of DFMO-induced growth inhibition by polyamines released during normal body cell turnover, to dietary polyamines, or to putrescine synthesized by the microbial flora in the GI tract. We studied selectively (aerobic) and totally (aerobic + anaerobic) GI tract-decontaminated LI210-bearing mice fed with 3 types of diet differing in their polyamine and carbohydrate residue contents and treated with combinations of intraperitoneal DFMO and oral deuterium-labelled putrescine. Our data show that, irrespective of diet type, total decontamination markedly potentiates the moderate tumor growth inhibition that is caused by DFMO alone. During total decontamination, growth inhibited L1210 cells accumulate in the G0/G1 phase of the cell cycle. Although orally administered deuterium-labelled putrescine gave rise to deuterium labelling of L1210 putrescine, spermidine and spermine, the polyamine levels in our diets played only a minor role. PMID- 2525117 TI - Inhibition of lens crystallin glycation and high molecular weight aggregate formation by aspirin in vitro and in vivo. AB - Previous studies have shown that glycation of lens proteins could be a contributory factor in the development of diabetic and senile cataracts. Acetylation by aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid or ASA) has been used as an inhibitor of glycation which blocks the potential glycation sites (epsilon-NH2 groups). If glycation is a contributory factor, inhibition of glycation by acetylation should bring about a corresponding decrease in cataractogenic changes. We relied on in vitro glycation system and streptozotocin-diabetic rats to study the effects of ASA on lens crystallin glycation, thiol oxidation and aggregation. For in vitro studies, sterile lens soluble crystallin preparations from 1-month-old rats were incubated, under nitrogen, with 50 mM glucose and 20 mM ASA up to 15 days at 37 degrees C. To study the in vivo effect in diabetic rats, ASA feeding (200 mg/kg body wt/day) was initiated 1 week prior to streptozotocin administration, and sacrificed on 15, 30, 60 and 90 days after injection. The in vitro data show the inhibitory effect on glycation of ASA with all concentrations that were tested (5, 10, 20 mM ASA); the percentage inhibition increased with increasing ASA concentration and time. For example, with 50 mM glucose and 20 mM ASA incubated for 15 days, there was a significant decrease in glycation (P less than 0.05), thiol oxidation (P less than 0.05) and aggregation (P less than 0.02).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525118 TI - [Dermatology workshop. Onychomycosis. 20-21 January 1989, Berlin. Abstracts]. PMID- 2525119 TI - Conjugal transfer of penicillin resistance plasmids to proline-citrulline-uracil dependent strains of Neisseria gonorrhoeae. AB - Proline-, citrulline-, uracil (PCU)-dependent Neisseria gonorrhoeae represented only 2% of all Neisseria gonorrhoeae isolated in Greece during 1984-1987. We investigated whether these strains could be recipients of gonococcal plasmids. We carried out bacterial conjugation experiments and obtained the transfer of the African (3.2 Mdal) and of the Asian (4.5 Mdal) penicillin resistance plasmid from clinical penicillinase producing N. gonorrhoeae (PPNG) isolates to PCU gonococcal strains. The transfer frequency was very low, which suggests an explanation of the fact that the wild type PCU strains do not harbour either of these two plasmids. The conjugative plasmid of 24.5 Mdal was not transferred to any of the transconjugants carrying either the African or the Asian type plasmids. PMID- 2525120 TI - In-vitro activity of clarithromycin (A-56268; TE-031) against gram-positive bacteria. PMID- 2525121 TI - Supplemental oxygen reduces right ventricular hypertrophy in monocrotaline injected rats. AB - We evaluated the possible contributory role of hypoxia in the development of monocrotaline-induced pulmonary hypertension. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were injected subcutaneously with monocrotaline (60 mg/kg) or saline in controls and were kept in oxygen-enriched (inspired O2 fraction of 0.35) or compressed air chambers. After 21 days, rats were anesthetized while spontaneously breathing room air, hemodynamic parameters and arterial blood gases were measured, and animals were killed. Right ventricular peak systolic pressures (RVPP), right ventricular-to-left ventricular plus septal weight ratios (RV/LV + S), hematocrits, lung dry weight-to-body weight ratios, and medial thickness of pulmonary arteries were significantly reduced in monocrotaline-injected rats exposed to mild hyperoxia compared with air. The air-exposed monocrotaline injected rats had significantly more arterial hypoxemia than the other groups, and mild hyperoxia had no effect on any of the measured variables in saline injected rats. To determine whether the effects of mild hyperoxia occurred early or late after monocrotaline injection, we moved separate groups of rats from air to mild hyperoxia and vice versa 10 days after monocrotaline injection. After 21 days, significant reductions in RVPP and RV/LV + S occurred only in rats exposed to mild hyperoxia during the latter 11 days after injection. Our findings suggest that hypoxia contributes to the development of pulmonary hypertension relatively late after monocrotaline injection in rats but that it does not influence the early injury. PMID- 2525123 TI - Ca2+ binding to skeletal muscle troponin C in skeletal and cardiac myofibrils. AB - Ca2+ binding to skeletal muscle troponin C in skeletal or cardiac myofibrils was measured by the centrifugation method using 45Ca. The specific Ca2+ binding to troponin C was obtained by subtracting the amount of Ca2+ bound to the CDTA treated myofibrils (troponin C-depleted myofibrils) from that to the myofibrils reconstituted with troponin C. Results of Ca2+ binding measurement at various Ca2+ concentrations showed that skeletal troponin C had two classes of binding sites with different affinity for Ca2+. The Ca2+ binding of low-affinity sites in cardiac myofibrils was about eight times lower than that in skeletal myofibrils, while the high-affinity sites of troponin C in skeletal or cardiac myofibrils showed almost the same affinity for Ca2+. The Ca2+ sensitivity of the ATPase activity of skeletal troponin C-reconstituted cardiac myofibrils was also about eight times lower than that of skeletal myofibrils reconstituted with troponin C. These findings indicated that the difference in the sensitivity to Ca2+ of the ATPase activity between skeletal and cardiac CDTA-treated myofibrils reconstituted with skeletal troponin C was mostly due to the change in the affinity for Ca2+ of the low-affinity sites on the troponin C molecule. PMID- 2525122 TI - Effect of a thromboxane receptor antagonist on PGD2- and allergen-induced bronchoconstriction. AB - In this study we investigated the effect of the selective and potent thromboxane A2 (TxA2) receptor antagonist GR32191 on smooth muscle contraction induced by the TxA2 analogue U46619, prostaglandin (PG) D2, PGF2 alpha, and methacholine (MCh) in guinea pig airways in vitro and the airways response provoked by inhaled PGD2 and MCh in asthmatic subjects in vivo. GR32191 antagonized competitively the contractile responses of all three prostanoids to a similar degree but had no effect on MCh-induced contractions. In asthmatic subjects GR32191, in a single oral dose of 80 mg, did not affect base-line airway caliber or MCh-induced broncho-constriction but caused significant inhibition of PGD2-induced bronchoconstriction, displacing the concentration-response curves to the right by greater than 10-fold. The effect of the same oral dose of GR32191 on allergen induced immediate bronchoconstriction was subsequently investigated in allergic asthmatic subjects. In individual subjects, GR32191 inhibited to varying degrees the overall bronchoconstrictor response, with the maximum effect occurring between 10 and 30 min after allergen challenge. These studies suggest that prostanoids contribute to the immediate bronchoconstriction induced by inhaled allergen in allergic asthmatics, and that this effect is mediated by stimulation of a thromboxane receptor. PMID- 2525124 TI - Identification of an N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase in Dictyostelium discoideum that transfers an "intersecting" N-acetylglucosamine residue to high mannose oligosaccharides. AB - Glycoproteins synthesized by the cellular slime mold Dictyostelium discoideum have been shown to contain asparagine-linked high-mannose oligosaccharides which have an N-acetylglucosamine group in a novel intersecting position (attached beta 1-4 to the mannose linked alpha 1-6 to the core mannose). We have used crude membrane preparations from vegetative D. discoideum (strain M4) to characterize the enzyme activity responsible for catalyzing the transfer of GlcNAc to the intersecting position of high-mannose oligosaccharides. UDP GlcNAc:oligosaccharide beta-N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase activity in these preparations attaches GlcNAc to the mannose residue-linked alpha 1-6 to the beta linked core mannose of the following Man9GlcNAc oligosaccharide as shown by the arrow. (formula; see text) It will also attach GlcNAc to the same intersecting position and/or to the bisecting position (beta-linked core mannose) of the following Man5GlcNAc oligosaccharide. (formula; see text) An analysis of the pH profiles, effects of heat denaturation, and substrate inhibitions on the addition of GlcNAc to either the intersecting or bisecting position of this Man5GlcNAc oligosaccharide indicates that a single enzyme activity is responsible for transferring GlcNAc to both positions. Various oligosaccharides were assayed to determine the substrate specificity of the transferase activity. These data indicate that both the mannose-attached alpha 1-3 and the mannose-attached alpha 1-6 to the mannose receiving the GlcNAc play a critical role in substrate suitability; absence of the alpha 1-6 mannose results in at least a 90% decrease in activity, while absence of the alpha 1-3 mannose results in a completely inactive substrate. This suggests that the minimal substrate is the disaccharide Man alpha 1-3Man. PMID- 2525125 TI - Structural analysis of glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol antigens of Leishmania major. AB - Three glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol glycolipids recognized by antibodies from patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis were extracted from Leishmania major promastigotes by hexane:isopropanol and then purified by thin layer chromatography and LH-20 gel chromatography. Structural analysis was carried out using chemical analyses, fast atom bombardment mass spectrometry, and 1H NMR. The major structures deduced can be summarized as follows: (formula: see text) where n = 0, 1, 2; R1 = (CH2)23-CH3; R2 = (CH2)14-CH3 or (CH2)16-CH3. Alkyl-acyl substitutions in the glycerol backbone showed considerable heterogeneity. These three glycolipids belong to a relatively new class of compounds and may represent sequential steps in the biosynthesis of glycosyl-phosphatidylinositols which anchor proteins or other glycoconjugates to Leishmania cell membranes. PMID- 2525126 TI - Differential association of rat liver heparan sulfate proteoglycans in membranes of the Golgi apparatus and the plasma membrane. AB - Heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPG) of rat liver are associated with the plasma membrane in a hydrophobic intrinsic and a hydrophilic extrinsic form. We were interested in determining whether or not these two forms could be detected in the Golgi apparatus, the subcellular site of addition of oligosaccharides and sulfate to HSPG. In vivo and in vitro radiolabeled HSPG from rat liver Golgi apparatus membranes could only be solubilized with detergents that disrupt the membrane lipid bilayer, suggesting that they are solely associated via hydrophobic interactions. Both forms of HSPG were detected in plasma membranes of rat liver and isolated rat hepatocytes. The detergent-solubilized HSPG bound to octyl Sepharose columns, whereas the hydrophilic form did not; this latter form, however, was released from the membrane by heparin. The hydrophobic anchor of HSPG in the Golgi and plasma membranes was insensitive to treatment with phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C under conditions in which alkaline phosphatase was sensitive; this suggests that the hydrophobic anchor of HSPG is the core protein itself. Preliminary experiments suggest that the subcellular site of processing of the hydrophobic to the hydrophilic form of HSPG is the plasma membrane. A specific processing activity, probably a protease of the plasma membrane not present in serum or the endoplasmic reticulum membrane, converted hydrophobic HSPG of the Golgi membrane to the hydrophilic form. In addition, pulse-chase experiments with [35S]Na2SO4 in rats demonstrated that at short times, the bulk of the radiolabeled cellular HSPG was in the Golgi apparatus; later on, the bulk of the radioactivity was found in the plasma membrane, the only subcellular site where the hydrophilic form of HSPG was detected. PMID- 2525128 TI - Thermostability of temperature-sensitive folding mutants of the P22 tailspike protein. AB - Temperature-sensitive folding mutations (tsf) of the thermostable P22 tailspike protein prevent the mutant polypeptide chain from reaching the native state at the higher end of the temperature range of bacterial growth (37-42 degrees C). At lower temperatures the mutant polypeptide chains fold and associate into native proteins. The melting temperatures of the purified native forms of seven different tsf mutant proteins have been determined by differential scanning calorimetry. Under conditions in which the wild type protein had a melting temperature of 88.4 degrees C, the melting temperatures of the mutant proteins were all above 82 degrees C, more than 40 degrees C higher than the temperature for expression of the folding defect. Because the folding defects were observed in vivo, the thermostability of the native protein was also examined with infected cells. Once matured at 28 degrees C, intracellular tsf mutant tailspikes remained native when the cells were transferred to 42 degrees C, a temperature that prevents newly synthesized tsf chains from folding correctly. These results confirm that the failure of tsf polypeptide chains to reach their native state is not due to a lowered stability of the native state. Such mutants differ from the class of ts mutations which render the native state thermolabile. The intracellular folding defects must reflect decreased stabilities of folding intermediates or alteration in the off-pathway steps leading to aggregation and inclusion body formation. These results indicate that the stability of a native protein within the cells is not sufficient to insure the successful folding of the newly synthesized chains into the native state. PMID- 2525127 TI - The role of cellular folates in the enhancement of activity of the thymidylate synthase inhibitor 10-propargyl-5,8-dideazafolate against hepatoma cells in vitro by inhibitors of dihydrofolate reductase. AB - Exposure of growing cultures of hepatoma cells in vitro to the lipid-soluble dihydrofolate reductase inhibitors metoprine (36 nM) or trimetrexate (2 nM) at subtoxic concentrations causes little change in cell growth rate, colony forming ability, cell cycle distribution, and de novo purine and thymidylate biosynthesis. The reductase inhibitors augment the cytotoxic activity of the thymidylate synthase inhibitor, 10-propargyl-5,8-dideazafolate by nearly 10-fold under optimal conditions. Treatment of the hepatoma cells with the reductase inhibitors for 72 h during growth caused approximately a 75% reduction in total cellular folates and 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate (primarily as polyglutamates) the substrate for thymidylate synthase. The reductase inhibitors also cause a doubling in the accumulation of 10-propargyl-5,8-dideazafolate polyglutamates. The combined antifolate treatment (metoprine or trimetrexate plus 10-propargyl 5,8-dideazafolate) expands the dUMP pool by 30-fold, which is more than the sum of either of the antifolates alone. Consequently, it is postulated that the enhanced activity of 10-propargyl-5,8-dideazafolate in combination with low concentrations of dihydrofolate reductase inhibitors is due to an increase in the ratio of inhibitor to substrate for thymidylate synthase of nearly 10-fold and an extensive enhancement of the dUMP pool. These conditions predispose the target enzyme and the cells to more effective metabolic blockade by 10-propargyl-5,8 dideazafolate which is presumably caused by the formation of an inhibited 10 propargyl-5,8-dideazafolate[polyglutamate]-thymidylate synthase-dUMP ternary complex. PMID- 2525129 TI - Ordered assembly of nucleoprotein structures at the bacteriophage lambda replication origin during the initiation of DNA replication. AB - Replication of the chromosome of bacteriophage lambda depends on the cooperative action of two phage-coded proteins and seven replication and heat shock proteins from its Escherichia coli host. As previously described, the first stage in this process is the binding of multiple copies of the lambda O initiator to the lambda replication origin (ori lambda) to form the nucleosomelike O-some. The O-some serves to localize subsequent protein-protein and protein-DNA interactions involved in the initiation of lambda DNA replication to ori lambda. To study these interactions, we have developed a sensitive immunoblotting protocol that permits the protein constituents of complex nucleoprotein structures to be identified. Using this approach, we have defined a series of sequential protein assembly and protein disassembly events that occur at ori lambda during the initiation of lambda DNA replication. A second-stage ori lambda.O (lambda O protein).P (lambda P protein).DnaB nucleoprotein structure is formed when O, P, and E. coli DnaB helicase are incubated with ori lambda DNA. In a third-stage reaction the E. coli DnaJ heat shock protein specifically binds to the second stage structure to form an ori lambda.O.P.DnaB.DnaJ complex. Each of the nucleoprotein structures formed in the first three stages was isolated and shown to be a physiological intermediate in the initiation of lambda DNA replication. The E. coli DnaK heat shock protein can bind to any of these early stage nucleoprotein structures, and in a fourth-stage reaction a complete ori lambda.O.P.DnaB.DnaJ.DnaK initiation complex is assembled. Addition of ATP to the reaction enables the DnaK and DnaJ heat shock proteins to mediate a partial disassembly of the fourth-stage complex. These protein disassembly reactions activate the intrinsic helicase activity of DnaB and result in localized unwinding of the ori lambda template. The protein disassembly reactions are described in the accompanying articles. PMID- 2525130 TI - Specialized nucleoprotein structures at the origin of replication of bacteriophage lambda. Protein association and disassociation reactions responsible for localized initiation of replication. AB - Binding of the O protein of phage lambda to the replication origin (ori lambda) results in the formation of an organized nucleoprotein structure termed the O some. The O-some serves to localize and initiate a six-protein sequential reaction that provides for localized unwinding of the origin region, the critical prepriming step for precise initiation of DNA replication. By the use of electron microscopy of gold-tagged antibody complexes, we have defined four stages of protein association and dissociation reactions that are involved in the prepriming pathway. First, as defined previously, O protein binds to multiple DNA sites and self-associates to form the O-some. Second, lambda P and host DnaB proteins add to the O-some to generate an O.P.DnaB.ori lambda complex. Addition of the DnaK and DnaJ proteins yields a third stage complex containing DnaK, DnaJ, O, P, and DnaB. With the addition of ATP and single-strand binding protein (SSB), the P protein is largely removed, and the DnaB acts as a helicase to generate locally unwound, SSB-coated single strand DNA. Thus, the initiation of lambda DNA replication requires ordered assembly and partial disassembly of specialized nucleoprotein structures. The disassembly activity of DnaK and DnaJ may be their general role in the heat shock response. PMID- 2525131 TI - The adenovirus inverted terminal repeat functions as an enhancer in a cell-free system. AB - Two binding sites for EivF, a factor involved in transcription from the adenovirus early promoter iv (Eiv), were mapped within the adenovirus inverted terminal repeats (ITR). Consistent with the observation that EivF was required to initiate transcription from the Eiv promoter and with the demonstration that two EivF binding sites were present in the ITR, we show that the inverted terminal repeat region was able to promote transcription from the CAP site of the Eiv promoter in vitro and in an EIa-dependent fashion in vivo. The minimum sequence within the ITR capable of directing EIa-dependent transcription consists of forty nine nucleotides comprising two EivF binding sites and at least one Sp1 binding site. This 49-base pair fragment possesses the characteristics of an enhancer which is induced by EIa. The enhancer is active in HeLa cell nuclear extracts. Transcription directed by the ITR required EivF and the general transcription factors. The addition of purified Sp1 factor specifically stimulated transcription which correlates with the presence of Sp1 binding sites between the two EivF recognition sites. PMID- 2525132 TI - The development of low-back pain after excision of a lumbar disc. AB - One hundred and twenty consecutive patients who had primary excision of a lumbar disc at a single level for predominantly radicular symptoms were studied. Of these patients, eighty-seven (72 per cent) were available for comprehensive review. The duration of follow-up ranged from twenty-four to eighty-seven months (average, thirty-eight months). Radiculopathy was initially relieved in eighty six (99 per cent) of the patients, although six patients (7 per cent) had recurrent herniation, which was successfully treated by reoperation. In an additional twelve patients (14 per cent), the operation was deemed a failure due to subsequent disabling low-back pain. Narrowing of the disc space was present radiographically in 98 per cent of the patients, but the amount of narrowing did not correlate with the degree of low-back pain, the age of the patient, or the length of time after operation. Factors predisposing to failure of the operation due to disabling low-back pain included coverage under Workmen's Compensation (p less than 0.00001), a history of more than fifteen pack-years of cigarette smoking (average, one pack a day for fifteen years) (p less than 0.01), and an age of more than forty years (p less than 0.05). PMID- 2525133 TI - [Interventional radiology and vascular pathology]. AB - Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) has been an important step in the therapy of arterial diseases. Nowadays, it opens the way to new techniques which main goals are to improve the PTA results and to enlarge the indications. This article review these new techniques. The principles, the therapeutic possibilities, the advantages and the inconvenience of each are evaluated, based upon the personal experience of the authors, the bibliography of current literature and the proceedings of a meeting organized on this topic (Toulouse, February 1988). All these procedures are encouraging and let foresee new possible therapy in vascular pathology. PMID- 2525134 TI - Inhibition of interleukin-1 production by 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. AB - The hormonal form of vitamin D, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25-(OH)2D3], inhibits the proliferation of T lymphocytes and production of growth-promoting factors (including interleukin-2) (IL2) in CTLL2 murine cells. In this study, we investigated the role of monocytes in this hormone-mediated inhibitory effect, by testing the effects of 1,25-(OH)2D3 on the ability of the mitogenic lectin phytohemagglutinin (PHA) to induce T cell activation in either a monocyte dependent or phorbol myristate acetate (PMA)-driven (monocyte-independent) system. The results indicate that proliferation of T cells and production of growth-promoting factors are inhibited by 1,25-(OH)2D3 only in the monocyte dependent system. Preincubation of monocytes with 1,25-(OH)2D3 for various periods of time and subsequent removal of the hormone resulted in inhibition of the PHA-driven proliferation of T cells. Preincubation for 2 h resulted in 20% inhibition, while preincubation for 36 h reduced proliferation to 50% of the control value [no 1,25-(OH)2D3 exposure]. These data suggested that monocytes are important participants in 1,25-(OH)2D3-mediated events. Therefore, we tested the effects of the hormone on the production of IL1, a monocyte-derived product thought to be involved in the induction of IL2 release and the subsequent development of the T cell proliferative response. 1,25-(OH)2D3 inhibited the production of both extracellular and cell-associated immunoreactive IL1 alpha and IL1 beta. Indomethacin, a prostaglandin synthetase inhibitor, did not alter the inhibitory properties of 1,25-(OH)2D3, suggesting that prostaglandins are not responsible for the inhibitory phenomenon. We conclude that part of the ability of 1,25-(OH)2D3 to inhibit T cell proliferation may be due to direct effects on monocytes by down-regulating IL-1 production. However, it is unlikely that the immunoregulatory properties of 1,25-(OH)2D3 on T cells are mediated solely through monocytes, and it is possible that the hormone also exerts its influence directly on T cells. PMID- 2525136 TI - [Suppressor T cells against delayed type hypersensitivity to Mycobacterium intracellulare]. AB - Mycobacterium intracellulare Mino strain (Mino) grows progressively in the organs of susceptible mice, such as C57BL/6, C57BL/10 or BALB/c. It is very difficult to induce acquired immunity against M. intracellulare in those susceptible mice. C57BL/6 (B6) mice show no or very weak delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) to partially purified Mino antigens when sensitized with 10(7) living Mino subcutaneously. B6 mice pretreated with cyclophosphamide (CY) showed enhanced DTH to Mino, suggesting that suppressor mechanism exists in this system. Whether or not such a suppressor mechanism exists in the induction phase of DTH (A) and/or in the expression phase of DTH (B) was examined by cell transfer experiments. Recipients for testing (A) were B6 mice receiving CY 2 days before an immunization, and those for (B) were B6 mice receiving both CY and subcutaneous injections of Mino 3 weeks before the cell transfer. B6 mice which were intravenously injected with Mino a week or 6 weeks before preparing spleen cell suspension, were used as the donors. Single cell suspensions of the spleens were plated on tissue culture dishes and non-adherent cells were harvested after incubating for 60 min at 37 degrees C. These cells were used for cell transfer. In the induction phase experiment, recipient mice received the cells before sensitization, while they received the cells after sensitization in the expression phase experiment. DTH were markedly suppressed in the cell transferred groups as compared with the non-transferred groups. This activity disappeared by treatment of the transferred cells with antibody (alpha Thy-1 Ab) and complement.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525135 TI - Mood and behavior at adolescence: evidence for hormonal factors. AB - We studied the relationship among behavior, mood, pubertal development, hormonal levels, and psychological functioning in 100 adolescent white girls between the ages of 10.6-13.3 yr. The girls were grouped by pubertal breast stages and four stages of estradiol secretion. No significant mood or behavior changes were found as a function of pubertal stages, controlling for age effects, except for a decrease in interest in sports. The hormonal stages revealed a significant curvilinear trend for depressive affect (increase, then decrease; P less than 0.01), impulse control (decrease, then increase; P less than 0.04), and psychopathology (increase, then decrease; P less than 0.03) scales, indicating significant changes in these behaviors during times of rapid increases in hormone levels. These data suggest that hormonal changes may be more important than the physical changes as determinants of certain mood and behavior patterns at adolescence. PMID- 2525137 TI - Hot-film anemometry for measuring lateral line stimuli. AB - A hot-film anemometer system has been calibrated and evaluated for the measurement of sinusoidal water motions used in stimulating the mechanosensory lateral line system of a teleost fish. The response of the anemometer system to water motions created by a vibrating sphere was measured over a wide range of frequencies, intensities, and distances from the sphere. The amplitude response of the system to signals along the axis of sphere vibration was found to be linear over a 50-dB range for frequencies from 10-200 Hz, with the lowest end of the dynamic range (between 10(-8) and 10(-9) m) corresponding to physiological measures of best sensitivity in the lateral line system of the mottled sculpin, Cottus bairdi. The measured attenuation of the signal with distance was also linear over this frequency range out to distances of six times the radius ( = 3 mm) of the sphere and followed the predicted falloff rate for a dipolar source. The linear response of the anemometer system over a wide dynamic range encompassing the detection range of the lateral line system, and the match between predicted and measured motions at varying distances from a dipolar source, indicates that hot-film anemometry is a useful technique for measuring low-level, low-frequency signals likely to stimulate the lateral line system and other hydrodynamic detectors. PMID- 2525138 TI - Comments on "Two-mass models of the vocal cords for natural sounding voice synthesis". AB - Koizumi et al. [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 82, 1179-1192 (1987)] have proposed a way to incorporate mucosal waves into previous two-mass mechanical models of the vocal folds. This was accomplished by allowing the mass of the masses to vary with time. The equations of motion Koizumi et al. used to mathematically describe this model neglected terms from the time rate of change of momentum of Newton's second law. In this letter, approximations of the magnitude of this term indicate that it must not be neglected. PMID- 2525139 TI - A note on "Information conveyed by vowels". AB - In an early experiment using synthetic speech, it was shown that raising or lowering the formants in an introductory sentence affected the identification of the vowel in a following test word [P. Ladefoged and D. Broadbent, J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 29, 98-104 (1957)]. This experiment has now been replicated using natural speech produced by a phonetician using two different overall settings of the vocal tract. PMID- 2525140 TI - Hypersensitivity to natural latex. AB - Rubber hypersensitivity is well described but usually as a contact dermatitis caused by chemicals added during the process of making natural latex or synthetic rubber. IgE-mediated reactions, mainly contact urticaria, have rarely been reported in Europe. We report a case of immediate hypersensitivity to latex. A 34 year-old female operating room nurse developed hand eczema to natural latex. On two occasions, while she was gloving for surgery, she had the following reactions: flushing, tachycardia, urticaria, angioedema, wheezing, and light headedness. Prick and patch testing to thiuram mix, mercaptobenzothiazole, phenylenediamine mix, and carbamate mix (common rubber additives) were negative. Prick tests to natural latex elicited a 4+ reaction associated with immediate flushing, tachycardia, urticaria, and light-headedness. Five control subjects did not react. IgE antibodies to latex by RAST demonstrated 17.7% binding (control, 4%). This case demonstrates that natural latex can cause IgE-mediated symptoms. The route of exposure was cutaneous absorption of relevant latex allergens. As the use of latex rubber products continues to escalate, more cases are likely to occur. PMID- 2525141 TI - Localization and cation dependence of a Ca2+- or Mg2+-ATPase from electrocytes of Electrophorus electricus, L. AB - Electrocyte membranes of Electrophorus electricus exhibit high ATPase activity, as demonstrated by cytochemical and biochemical techniques. This activity is visualized as electron-dense deposits in electron micrographs, and appears to be localized only at the innervated face of the electrocyte. ATP hydrolysis can be detected cytochemically or biochemically only in the presence of calcium or magnesium. The effects of Ca or Mg on ATPase activity can be described by Michaelis-like functions with similar apparent Km values for Ca and Mg (0.41 mM and 0.23 mM, respectively). Vmax, however, is fivefold higher in the presence of Mg. The effects of the two cations are not additive, and pH dependence of ATP hydrolysis is identical in the presence of Ca or Mg (maximal at pH 8-9). Therefore, it can be concluded that Ca and Mg activate the same enzyme, the differences in Vmax being attributable to influences in kcat. PMID- 2525143 TI - Tolerance induction of allo-class I H-2 antigen-reactive Lyt-2+ helper T cells and prolonged survival of the corresponding class I H-2-disparate skin graft. AB - C57BL/6 (B6) mice were i.v. presensitized with class I H-2-disparate B6-C-H-2bm1 (bm1) spleen cells. Such presensitization resulted in almost complete abrogation of bm1-specific Lyt-2+ T cell-mediated proliferative and IL-2-producing capacities as measured by MLC of lymphoid cells from presensitized B6 mice with stimulating bm1 cells. In contrast, comparable magnitude of CTL responses was generated in bulk cultures from presensitized B6 lymphoid cells to that obtained in unpresensitized B6 responding cultures. These differential influences of Lyt 2+ T cell functions were also demonstrated by limiting dilution assays; frequencies of proliferative and IL-2-producing T cell precursors were as low as undetectable in presensitized B6 lymphoid cells, whereas an appreciable frequency of CTL precursors in a portion of the same lymphoid cells was observed. When bm1 skin grafting was performed in B6 mice i.v. presensitized with bm1 cells, the strikingly prolonged survival of bm1 skin grafts was observed. It was also demonstrated that the bm1 skin graft-bearing B6 mice which had been presensitized with bm1 cells not only exhibited a continuing suppressive state of bm1-specific helper (proliferative and IL-2-producing) function but also failed to generate anti-bm1 CTL responses. These results indicate that 1) i.v. presensitization with class I H-2 alloantigens results in selective tolerance of Lyt-2+ Th cells which is adequate for inducing prolonged graft survival, 2) the induction of complete abrogation of CTL potential is not absolute requirement for the prolongation of graft survival, and 3) residual CTL potential is attenuated after grafting so far as Th cells are rendered tolerant. PMID- 2525142 TI - Ca++-ATPase in the central nervous system: an EM cytochemical study. AB - Ca++-ATPase plays an important role in regulation of the intracellular Ca++ concentration. Biochemical studies of brain have demonstrated that Ca++-ATPase co purifies with synaptosomes, with synaptic plasma membrane and synaptic vesicle fractions. To better understand the role of this enzyme in normal brain function, we used an electron microscopic (EM) cytochemical method to determine the localization of Ca++-ATPase in rat brain. Reaction product occurred along cytoplasmic membranes. Specific areas of increased reaction product were seen at many but not all post-synaptic densities. Intracellular Ca++-ATPase reaction product was associated with all synaptic vesicles examined and with the Golgi and smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER). Unlike the situation in peripheral nerve, Ca++-ATPase at the node of Ranvier in the CNS localized preferentially to the nodal axolemma. The localization of Ca++-ATPase at synaptic vesicles agrees with the biochemical evidence for its localization and with the cytochemical evidence for Ca++-ATPase sequestration in those vesicles. The restricted localization at postsynaptic densities suggests that it may be involved in extrusion of Ca++ at synapses where neurotransmitter release causes Ca++ influx. PMID- 2525144 TI - T cell receptor alpha/beta expressing double-negative (CD4-/CD8-) and CD4+ T helper cells in humans augment the production of pathogenic anti-DNA autoantibodies associated with lupus nephritis. AB - It is generally accepted that human Th cells express the surface glycoproteins CD4 and alpha/beta-chain heterodimer of the TCR whereas cytotoxic/suppressor cells are usually CD8+ and alpha/beta TCR+. Another minor set of T cells found in the periphery are CD4-/CD8- (double negative) and express the gamma/delta TCR; these cells can manifest MHC-restricted or nonrestricted cytotoxicity but no helper function. Herein we describe the existence of an unusual Th population in the peripheral blood of humans that are CD4-/CD8- and alpha/beta TCR+. These double-negative Th were markedly expanded in patients with the autoimmune disease SLE and along with CD4+ Th, they induced production of the pathogenic variety of anti-DNA autoantibodies that are IgG in class and cationic in charge. The cationic anti-DNA antibodies induced by the Th were markedly restricted in spectrotype indicating that an oligoclonal population of B cells were committed to produce the pathogenic autoantibodies in active lupus. IL-2-dependent T cell lines were also derived from the patients with active lupus nephritis but the majority of those T cell lines lacked pathogenic autoantibody-inducing capability. Only 4 out of 42 T cell lines from a lupus patient could induce the production of cationic IgG class anti-DNA autoantibodies. The phenotypes of the pathogenic autoantibody-inducing Th lines were similar to the Th subsets: CD4+, alpha/beta TCR+ or CD4-/CD8-, alpha/beta TCR+. These studies suggest that production of pathogenic autoantibodies in human lupus is mediated by mechanisms that are distinct from the generalized, nonspecific polyclonal B cell hyperactivity that leads to excessive production of natural autoantibodies. PMID- 2525146 TI - Antiproliferative effect of IFN-gamma in immune regulation. III. Differential selection of TH1 and TH2 murine helper T lymphocyte clones using recombinant IL-2 and recombinant IFN-gamma. AB - Supernatants collected after primary or secondary stimulation of spleen cells contain different arrays of lymphokines. Primary supernatants from spleen cells stimulated with Con A or allogeneic spleen cells (MLC-SF) contain IL-2 but little IL-4 or IGN-gamma; in contrast, secondary MLC-SF contains IL-2 as well as substantial IL-4 and IFN-gamma. Our laboratory previously had always used secondary MLC-SF for cloning T cells, and had routinely obtained TH1 helper T lymphocyte clones. In the present study, when primary Con A-SF was used as source of growth factors, TH2 and not TH1 clones were preferentially derived. Considering the possibility that IFN-gamma may be one important factor in determining whether TH1 or TH2 clones are preferentially obtained, clone derivation was then performed either in the presence of rIL-2 or rIL-2 plus rIFN gamma. The majority of clones derived using rIL-2 alone were TH2 cells, whereas the majority of clones derived using rIL-2 plus rIFN-gamma were TH1 cells. Using either procedure, some clones were obtained that produced IL-2, IL-4, and IFN gamma. These data are consistent with our previous observations that IFN-gamma inhibits the proliferation of TH2 but not TH1 clones, and suggest that the presence of IFN-gamma during an immune response would result in the preferential expansion of helper T lymphocytes of the TH1 phenotype. Our procedure for the differential selection of TH1 and TH2 clones reactive with the same Ag should be useful for designing in vitro systems for studying the function of these cell subsets in specific immune responses. PMID- 2525145 TI - Differential regulation of the low affinity Fc receptor for IgE (Fc epsilon R2/CD23) and the IL-2 receptor (Tac/p55) on eosinophilic leukemia cell line (EoL 1 and EoL-3). AB - Two types of activation Ag, low affinity FcR for IgE (Fc epsilon R2)/CD23 and IL 2R (Tac/p55), were expressed and differently regulated on human eosinophilic leukemia cell lines (EoL-1 and EoL-3). Because the binding of IgE on EoL-3 cells was completely inhibited by H107 (anti-Fc epsilon R2/CD23 mAb) but not by irrelevant mAb, essentially all the low affinity Fc epsilon R2 on EoL-3 seemed to be the Fc epsilon R2/CD23 molecules. Both IL-4 and IFN-gamma enhanced the surface expression of Fc epsilon R2, whereas IL-1, IL-2, and IL-5 showed no effects, as determined by surface staining with anti-Fc epsilon R2 antibody (H107). In contrast to Fc epsilon R2 up-regulation, IL-4 and IFN-gamma showed a differential effect on the regulation of IL-2R (Tac/p55). Whereas IFN-gamma up-regulated the receptor expression of IL-2R/Tac, IL-4 did not. The result suggests that these lymphokines are involved in the different aspects of the activation pathway of the eosinophils. The possible role of Fc epsilon R2 and IL-2R on the function of eosinophils in allergic reaction is discussed. PMID- 2525147 TI - CD45-protein tyrosine phosphatase cross-linking inhibits T cell receptor CD3 mediated activation in human T cells. AB - Activation of peripheral blood T cells, and the leukemic T cell line Jurkat, as measured by mobilization of intracellular calcium, by an anti-TCR antibody is blocked by mAb (T191) to the leukocyte common Ag (CD45). T191 also blocked down regulation of the CD3-TCR complex induced by an anti-CD3 mAb. Vanadate, a phosphotyrosine phosphatase inhibitor, partially blocks the effect of T191 and restored mobilization of intracellular calcium. Assays of the immunoprecipitates of T191 and CD45 from both Jurkat-BM1 and peripheral T cells showed that the immune complexes had intrinsic phosphatase activity. A parallel immunoprecipitate using a mAb (4-10) against HLA class I showed no such activity. Further analysis of the T191 immunocomplex revealed activity against phosphotyrosine, p nitrophenylphosphate, and [32P-poly-glu-tyr, but not against phosphoserine. Phosphatase activity was inhibited by Vanadate, but not by Zn2+ or F-. These results show that CD45 is a phosphotyrosine phosphatase, and strongly suggest that tyrosine phosphorylation/dephosphorylation is critically involved in activation of T cells through the TCR-CD3 complex. PMID- 2525148 TI - Depletion of guanine nucleotides with mycophenolic acid suppresses IgE receptor mediated degranulation in rat basophilic leukemia cells. AB - In RBL-2H3 rat basophilic leukemia cells, Ag that crosslink IgE-receptor complexes stimulate the turnover of inositol phospholipids, the mobilization of Ca2+ from intra- and extracellular sources, the release of serotonin and other substances from granules and the transformation of the cell surface from a microvillous to a lamellar architecture. This study explores the role of GTP binding proteins (G proteins) in the control of these biochemical and functional responses. We report that incubating RBL-2H3 cells for 4 h with 10 microM mycophenolic acid (MPA), an inhibitor of de novo GTP synthesis, reduces GTP levels by over 60% and causes an average reduction of 50% in Ag-stimulated serotonin release. This inhibition of secretion is associated with a 50% decrease in the rate of 45Ca2+ influx in MPA-treated cells. In contrast, Ag-stimulated inositol trisphosphate production is only slightly reduced, indicating that the phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C can be activated by Ag in GTP depleted cells. The membrane responses to IgE receptor cross-linking are unaffected by incubating cells with MPA. Exogenous guanine or guanosine protects the GTP pools in MPA-treated cells and permits normal ion transport and secretory responses to Ag; adenine does not. These results implicate a guanine nucleotide binding protein in the control of IgE receptor-dependent signal transduction in RBL-2H3 cells. This protein may particularly control the Ca2+ influx pathway that is essential for secretion. PMID- 2525149 TI - Characterization of an alternative exon of the murine T cell receptor beta-chain. Pattern of expression and evolutionary conservation. AB - In this report, we characterize an alternate gene element of the murine TCR beta chain. First, we have looked at the expression of the alternate exon, C beta 0, in normal T cell clones, as well as in fetal vs adult whole thymus. The C beta 0 exon is expressed in only 1% or less of TCR-beta messages in four of four mature T cell clones examined. C beta 0 is found at 10-fold higher levels in both fetal and adult thymus mRNA. Thus C beta 0 is developmentally regulated by T cells, although expression of the alternate exon is relatively constant from the fetal thymus to the adult thymus. Second, evolutionary conservation of the C beta 0 gene element was studied in both the rat and the human. The rat beta-locus contains a gene element highly homologous to the mouse C beta 0 gene, but the rat C beta 0 gene contains mutations in both splice sites that probably prevent the gene element from being spliced into mRNA. We have also sequenced the first exon of rat C beta 1, and find that the C beta 0 exon and the intron around C beta 0 are conserved between rat and mouse to the same level as the C beta 1 coding region. The intron around C beta 1, in contrast, shows the decrease in conservation between the two species that is expected for a noncoding region. Analysis of the putative C beta 0-containing region in the human reveals no sequences homologous to the C beta 0 gene element. Because the mouse is the only species that has conserved a functional C beta 0 gene, we conclude that the C beta 0 exon does not play a general role in T cell development. PMID- 2525150 TI - Immunodeficiency in graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). II. Effects of GVHD-induced suppressor cells on CD4+ T cell clones. AB - Lethally irradiated mice transplanted with H-2-matched, minor histocompatibility disparate bone marrow develop graft-vs-host disease (GVHD) that is associated with severe immunodeficiency. Splenocytes from such mice contain radioresistant cells that profoundly suppress normal lymphocyte function. We now show that GVHD induced suppressor cells also inhibit the proliferation of CD4+ T cell clones specific for different Ag and class II MHC determinants. These suppressors have a dominant anti-proliferative effect, because they inhibit DNA synthesis in response to receptor-mediated stimulation and growth-promoting lymphokines, without abolishing lymphokine secretion or lymphokine receptor expression by the cloned T cells. The implications of these findings, and the usefulness of T cell clones for studying immune suppression, are discussed. PMID- 2525151 TI - Measurement of cytoplasmic calcium in lymphocytes using flow cytometry. Kinetic studies and single cell analysis. AB - An increased level of cytoplasmic free ionized calcium [Ca2+]i after crosslinking of membrane receptors is a critical second messenger in the activation of T and B lymphocytes. The availability of fluorescent calcium chelators, such as quin-2 and indo-1, makes accurate measurement of [Ca2+]i possible. One of the major drawbacks of spectrofluorometry which is the generally used method in such studies is that the overall response of a cell suspension is recorded. Such data will be biased by the proportion of non-responding cells, which will differ according to the purity of cell populations and the nature of the stimulus applied. An accurate and reliable technique to measure intracellular free calcium responses in indo-1-loaded cells at the single cell level has been developed using a simple mercury arc lamp-based flow cytometer, the FACS analyzer. Using this technique we have found that the rapid increase in [Ca2+]i (within 30 s) in T cells following activation by ConA involves a minority of cells, whereas all T cells show increased [Ca2+]i levels within 2-3 min. PMID- 2525152 TI - Estimation of guinea pig antigen-specific and non-specific suppressor cell activity. AB - A functional assay for the quantitative estimation of suppressor cell (SC) activity in guinea pigs has been developed. Cultures of antigen-stimulated peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) from sensitized guinea pigs develop SC activity. The suppression of proliferation can be demonstrated in antigen stimulated autologous co-cultures of precultured and freshly isolated PBL. The extent of suppression is dependent on the preculture antigen concentration but not the preculture period and it consists, as demonstrated with PBL from doubly sensitized guinea pigs, of an antigen-specific and a non-specific component. The observed SC activities were not due to an alteration of the kinetics of the co cultures. The estimates of suppression are highly dependent on corrections for the values of the control cultures. The present method may prove useful in immunological studies of mycobacterial infections in guinea pigs. PMID- 2525153 TI - Deficient display of CD3 on lymphocytes of patients with chronic fatigue syndrome. PMID- 2525156 TI - Transient cognitive changes after craniotomy. AB - Little has been written on the subject of cognitive and behavioral changes that may follow craniotomy. Neuroscience nurses who care for craniotomy patients often see transient alterations in behavior, intellect and personality similar to those occurring after minor head injury or subarachnoid hemorrhage. These changes may lead to depression and alter family dynamics. Interventional strategies, including cognitive screening, family counseling and thorough discharge planning are essential for helping patients and family members anticipate potential deficits and cope with life after craniotomy. PMID- 2525155 TI - Intermittent clean self-catheterization in clients with neurogenic bladder resulting from multiple sclerosis. AB - For the client with multiple sclerosis (MS), urinary retention is a symptom that must be dealt with effectively because of the risk of life-threatening complications. Estimates of bladder involvement in these clients range as high as 73-90%. Intermittent clean self-catheterization (ICSC) is now being used by some clients with neurogenic bladder resulting from MS. This article addresses the success of, and problems presented by this technique to the person with MS as recorded in the literature and as related in three actual case studies. PMID- 2525154 TI - C1-C2 fractures and dislocations. AB - The management of patients with bony or ligamental injury of C1 or C2 depends on the nature of the fracture or subluxation. Other factors which must be taken into consideration are mechanism of injury, presence of neurological deficit and demonstration of stability. It is the intention of this article to examine bony anatomy of the upper two cervical vertebrae and their relationship to each other. The management of this injury and the role of the nurse in caring for and educating the patient with this type of injury, as well as a case study will be presented. PMID- 2525157 TI - A fatal attraction: cocaine related subarachnoid hemorrhage. AB - An alarming number of people use cocaine, a drug surrounded with myths and misconceptions. Cocaine use is associated with many medical and psychiatric problems. It is now believed cocaine use may lead to subarachnoid hemorrhage. Cocaine stimulates the release of various neurotransmitters in the brain as well as blocks their uptake, causing a temporary surge in systolic blood pressure. The constant assault on the vessels from continuous cocaine use weakens them causing hemorrhage or possibly creates an aneurysm. This article explains how cocaine affects the blood vessels and neurotransmitters of the brain, reviews two case histories in which cocaine may have contributed to aneurysmal formation and subarachnoid hemorrhage and discusses nursing implications of cocaine related subarachnoid hemorrhage. PMID- 2525159 TI - The benefit of a home exercise regimen for ambulatory Parkinson's disease patients. AB - The Home Visiting Exercise Project assessed the impact (benefit) of a weekly home exercise regimen for ambulatory patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). The exercises were taught by senior nursing students. In a case control study with 29 patients, half were assigned to a home-supervised exercise regimen and the other half were assigned a home visit without an exercise regimen. The hypothesis was that PD patients who received a weekly home nursing student-supervised exercise regimen would experience better mobility, feeding and self-care as compared to patients who received a weekly home visit from a nursing student without exercises. Patients who participated in the exercise regimen showed significant improvement in recent memory, diminution of nausea, improved sucking ability, and less urinary retention and incontinence. This research was supported by a grant from the National Parkinson's Foundation, Miami, Florida. PMID- 2525158 TI - Sexual dysfunction in multiple sclerosis. AB - Sexual dysfunction in multiple sclerosis (MS) has only recently become recognized as an early and distressing manifestation of the disease in both sexes. Sexual problems appear to be a combination of direct neurological consequences, and of individual and partner reactions. This article reviews current knowledge about sexual dysfunction in MS. The major effects on sexual response (both organic and psychogenic) are discussed, as well as associated physical problems and implications regarding fertility, pregnancy and birth control. Guidelines for intervention by neuroscience nurses who work with MS individuals and their partners are addressed. PMID- 2525161 TI - Perceptions of body image in subjects with multiple sclerosis: a pilot study. AB - This article reports on a study of the perceived body image of persons with multiple sclerosis (MS) and the relationship between body image and the severity of physical disability. Second and Jourard's Body-Cathexis Scale and Self Cathexis Scale were used to measure satisfaction or dissatisfaction each person had with his body and self. Kurtzke's Status Disability Scale was used to determine each person's degree of physical disability. The sample consisted of 20 male veterans between 34 and 70 years of age (mean 47.6), who had MS for 7 to 44 years (mean 20.8) and a physical disability score of two to nine (mean 4.65). On the Body-Cathexis Scale, 55% (N = 11) were satisfied and 45% (N = 9) were dissatisfied with their bodies. Whereas on the Self-Cathexis Scale, 45% (N = 9) were satisfied and 55% (N = 11) were dissatisfied with self. Seven subjects (35%) were satisfied with both body and self and seven (35%) were dissatisfied with body and self. Subjects who were satisfied with body and self were older (mean 50.43 years), had MS longer (mean 22.57 years) and were more disabled (mean score 5.0). Implications for further nursing research are identified. PMID- 2525160 TI - Epidural abscesses of the spine: case comparisons. AB - Epidural abscesses of the spine generally arise from staphylococcal infections that by hematologic spread or direct invasion affect the integrity of the vertebral column or meningeal coverings of the spinal cord. A case comparison approach highlights goal-oriented nursing interventions which assist the patient in the adaptation to and recovery from this unique central nervous system infection. PMID- 2525162 TI - Expert witness. PMID- 2525163 TI - Neuromuscular blocking drugs. PMID- 2525164 TI - An introduction to injury severity scaling. PMID- 2525165 TI - [An experimental study of the construction of a new right ventricle]. AB - This study was undertaken to design and estimate the method to construct a new right ventricle in single ventricle. Twenty five mongrel dogs were used. In this study three types of conduits were used. In Group A vinyl tube, in Group B Woven Dacron tube and in Group C organized Woven Dacron tube were used. Under total cardiopulmonary bypass right atrium was incised. The conduit was inserted through tricuspid annulus and right ventricle into pulmonary trunk. The conduit was fixed at pulmonary trunk and tricuspid annulus. Right ventricle was made closed cavity, and right ventricular pressure affected pulmonary arterial pressure through the conduit wall. In this study right ventricle was regarded as single ventricle. Hemodynamic investigation revealed that central venous pressure must be elevated to get the normal cardiac output. Effective pulse pressure was obtained in the pulmonary artery. Pulmonary vascular resistance decreased as increasing of the pulmonary pulse pressure. Pulmonary pulse pressure was significantly low in group C. It was considered that the intra-ventricular elastic conduit was new method to obtain the pulmonary pulse pressure. PMID- 2525166 TI - T-helper cell subpopulations and the immune spectrum of leprosy. PMID- 2525167 TI - Role for local prostaglandin and thromboxane production in the regulation of glomerular filtration rate in the rat with streptozocin-induced diabetes. AB - We examined the relationship between glomerular filtration rate (GFR), as assessed by inulin clearance, and glomerular prostaglandin and thromboxane production as a function of glycemic control in control rats and rats that had had streptozocin-induced diabetes for 2 months. In severely hyperglycemic (plasma glucose level 644 +/- 40 mg/dl) rats with streptozocin-induced diabetes that had not been treated with insulin, GFR was reduced to values below those in control rats by 2 months, whether data were expressed as milliliters per minute or as a function of kidney weight. By contrast, treatment of the diabetic rats with insulin to maintain moderate hyperglycemia (plasma glucose concentration 398 +/- 40 mg/dl) resulted in a persistent elevation of GFR compared with values in control rats. Basal production of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and 6-keto prostaglandin F1 alpha (6-keto-PGF1 alpha), the stable metabolic product of prostaglandin I2 (PGl2), by glomeruli isolated from the moderately hyperglycemic rats was higher than corresponding values of glomeruli from control rats. Differences in PGE2 and 6-keto-PGF1 alpha production by glomeruli from moderately hyperglycemic and control rats were abolished by addition of arachidonate to the incubation mixture, supporting a role for enhanced availability of arachidonate in the mediation of altered vasodilatory prostaglandin production. By contrast, glomerular production of thromboxane B2 (TXB2), the stable metabolic product of thromboxane A2 (TXA2), was not different in moderately hyperglycemic rats compared with controls. Thus, enhanced production of vasodilatory prostaglandins by glomeruli from moderately hyperglycemic rats was associated with an increase in GFR.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525168 TI - Pituitary protein 7B2-like immunoreactivity in cerebrospinal fluid: comparison with other neuropeptides. AB - A pituitary protein, designated 7B2, was demonstrated to be present in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) obtained from control subjects and patients with various cerebrovascular accidents (CVAs). Although there was not any significant difference in mean immunoreactive 7B2 concentrations among various CVA groups, the CSF immunoreactive 7B2 levels in control subjects were 10 to 100 times higher than those in control plasma samples. Immunoreactive calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and immunoreactive atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) levels in the CSF were comparable to those in corresponding normal plasma samples. The CSF ANP concentrations in patients with cerebral bleeding and subarachnoid hemorrhage were significantly lower than those in control subjects. Gel chromatography or high-performance liquid chromatography indicated that the main immunoreactivities of 7B2, CGRP, and ANP coeluted with corresponding standard material. The high CSF concentrations of immunoreactive 7B2 observed might indicate a functional role of 7B2 in the central nervous system. PMID- 2525169 TI - Immunogenicity and reactogenicity of a yeast-derived hepatitis B vaccine in Thai school children. PMID- 2525170 TI - Parachlorophenylalanine retards tail regeneration in the gekkonid lizard Hemidactylus flaviviridis exposed to continuous light. AB - Parachlorophenylalanine (p-CPA) was used for chemical pinealectomy in a study of tail regeneration in the gekkonid lizard, Hemidactylus flaviviridis. Two doses of p-CPA (200 or 400 micrograms kg-1 body mass) were injected into two groups of lizards (5 days prior to and 30 days after caudal autotomy) exposed to continuous light of 2500 lx intensity during the summer season (March-May). Our observations show that the initiation of regeneration, the daily growth rate, the total length of new growth (regenerate) produced, and the total percentage replacement of the lost (autotomized) tails 30 days after autotomy were all significantly less with 400 micrograms kg-1 and insignificantly less with 200 micrograms kg-1 of p-CPA than in the control group of animals. The results may indicate that the effect of the drug p-CPA, an agent employed for chemical pinealectomy, on tail regeneration in H. flaviviridis is dose-dependent and that p-CPA at the high dose of 400 micrograms kg-1 has a similar retardation effect to that of complete pineal ablation. The role of the pineal in photoperiodic photoreception, and the effect of p-CPA on serotonin-melatonin biosynthesis and the consequent effects on tail regeneration, are discussed. PMID- 2525171 TI - RIII S/J (H-2r). An inbred mouse strain with a massive deletion of T cell receptor V beta genes. AB - We have identified an inbred strain of mouse, RIII S/J (H-2r), that has the largest known deletion of the TCR V beta genes by screening with mAb and TCR V beta specific probes. Upon screening of PBL with mAb F23.1, which is specific for V beta 8 TCR, RIII S/J was found to be negative. On further screening with mAb KJ 23a, which is specific for V beta 17a TCR, RIII S/J was completely negative. We next tested RIII S/J with mAb 44-22-1, which is specific for V beta 6 TCR, and found it also to be negative. The (B10 X RIII)F1 mice showed a 50% expression of V beta 6 gene, indicating a genomic rather than a clonal deletion. mAb KJ25, detecting V beta 3, was positive in RIII S/J, denoting the downstream boundary for the deletion. Southern blot analysis of liver DNA using TCR V beta-specific probes confirmed the deletion of V beta 8 gene subfamily and V beta 5 gene subfamily, along with V beta 9, V beta 11, V beta 12, and V beta 13 genes similar to the known TCR V beta deletion mutants (SWR, SJL, C57L, and C57Br). In addition, RIII S/J is missing V beta 6, V beta 15, and V beta 17 genes. Our mapping of the deletion indicates that RIII S/J has lost approximately 130 kb of V beta chromosome and with it 13 V beta genes out of the known 21 V beta genes of the TCR. The deletion is marked by the presence of V beta 10 gene upstream and V beta 3 gene downstream. PMID- 2525172 TI - Role of CD4 in thymocyte selection and maturation. AB - We examined the possible role of CD4 molecules during in vivo and in vitro fetal thymic development. Our results show that fetal thymi treated with intact anti CD4 mAbs fail to generate CD4 single-positive T cells, while the generation of the other phenotypes remains unchanged. Most importantly, the use of F(ab')2 and Fab anti-CD4 mAb gave identical results, i.e., failure to generate CD4+/CD8- T cells, with no effect on the generation of CD4+/CD8+ T cells. Since F(ab')2 and Fab anti-CD4 fail to deplete CD4+/CD8- in adult mice, these results strongly argue that the absence of CD4+/CD8- T cells is not due to depletion, but rather, is caused by a lack of positive selection, attributable to an obstructed CD4-MHC class II interaction. Furthermore, we also observed an increase in TCR/CD3 expression after anti-CD4 (divalent or monovalent) mAb treatment. The TCR/CD3 upregulation occurs in the double-positive population, and may result from CD4 signaling after mAb engagement, or may be a consequence of the blocked CD4-class II interactions. One proposed model argues that the CD3 upregulation occurs in an effort to compensate for the reduction in avidity or signaling that is normally provided by the interaction of the CD4 accessory molecule and its ligand. As a whole, our findings advocate that CD4 molecules play a decisive role in the differentiation of thymocytes. PMID- 2525173 TI - T cell receptor beta gene has two downstream DNase I hypersensitive regions. Possible mechanisms of tissue- and stage-specific gene regulation. AB - Two DNase I-hypersensitive regions were identified downstream of the TCR gene constant region. One of these regions is located at the site of a putative enhancer element and was observed only in T cell lines and not in cell lines derived from other tissues. The other DNase-hypersensitive region was also detected only in T cell lines but only in those expressing TCR-beta RNA. Thus, the first region is probably tissue specific, while the second region is probably tissue and stage specific. The DNA sequence of the second DNase I-hypersensitive region revealed several stretches of nucleotides that are characteristic of consensus sequences for regulatory elements. These results, together with the observations in transgenic mice that indicate a requirement for two distinct regions for optimal TCR gene expression, suggest the presence of at least two regulatory regions downstream of the C-beta-2 region; one is an enhancer region and the other is a transcriptionally related regulatory region. The tissue/stage specificity of these DNase I-hypersensitive regions supports the notion that changes in chromatin structure control tissue-specific gene expression. PMID- 2525175 TI - Influenza virus-specific T cells lead to early interferon gamma in lungs of infected hosts: development of a sensitive radioimmunoassay. AB - A sensitive immunoradiometric assay for murine interferon gamma (MuIFN-gamma) has been developed and used reproducibly to measure low levels of MuIFN-gamma in lung lavage samples from influenza-infected mice. In control infected mice, IFN-gamma peaked on day 6, but transfer of virus-specific cytotoxic T cells or T helper cells, which reduced virus replication in vivo in infected hosts, resulted in an earlier peak on day 4. PMID- 2525174 TI - Phenotypic and functional alteration of CD4+ T cells after antigen stimulation. Resolution of two populations of memory T cells that both secrete interleukin 4. AB - Phenotypic and functional alteration of murine CD4+ T cells after antigenic stimulation was studied using two anti-T cell mAbs recently described that define four distinct T cell subsets. Activation of T cells resulted in the permanent loss of 3G11 expression. However, two phenotypically distinct memory T cell populations were established depending on the system used; whereas those for anti KLH antibody response were enriched in the fraction expression 6C10 (Fr. III), memory T cells for the allogeneic MLR lacked such expression (Fr. IV). Furthermore, successive stimulation with antigen in vitro resulted in secretion of IL-4 without detectable IL-2. This alteration of phenotype and interleukin secretion was also demonstrable when starting with 3G11+6C10- cells (Fr. I), the fraction that secretes IL-2 exclusively upon activation. PMID- 2525176 TI - The 1B (NS2), 1C (NS1) and N proteins of human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) of antigenic subgroups A and B: sequence conservation and divergence within RSV genomic RNA. AB - A 2330 nucleotide sequence spanning the 1B (NS2), IC (NS1) and N genes and intergenic regions of human respiratory syncytial virus strain 18537, representing antigenic subgroup B, was determined by sequencing cloned cDNAs of intracellular mRNAs. Comparison with the previously reported sequences for strain A2 of subgroup A showed that 1B, 1C and N were highly conserved at the nucleotide level (78, 78 and 86% identity, respectively) and at the amino acid level (92, 87 and 96% identity, respectively). The gene-start signals were exactly conserved between subgroups, and the gene-end signals contained only a single nucleotide substitution each in 1B and N. In most cases intergenic and non-coding gene sequences that were not part of presumed transcriptive signals were much less well conserved (generally 50 to 71%) than sequences that were part of translational open reading frames (82 to 86%). The nucleotide and deduced amino acid sequences of the N gene and protein of the Long strain of subgroup A were determined by sequencing cDNA clones of intracellular mRNA; the nucleotide sequence (representing all but the first 10 nucleotides of the gene) contained 15 differences from that of the A2 strain, but the deduced amino acid sequences were identical. PMID- 2525177 TI - Presynaptic effect of muscle relaxants on the release of 3H-norepinephrine controlled by endogenous acetylcholine in guinea pig atrium. AB - The influence of nondepolarizing muscle relaxants (MR) on the resting and electrically evoked release of tritiated norepinephrine (3H-NE) was investigated, in the absence and presence of 10(-4) mol/l cocaine, in the in vitro right atrium preparation of guinea pigs (g.p.) preloaded with 3H-NE. In the absence of MR both resting and stimulated 3H and 3H-NE release remained relatively constant throughout the experiment and the ratios of the evoked release of 3H during consecutive stimulation periods (i.e. S2/S1, S3/S2) were close to unity. None of the MR had any effect on resting 3H release. Atropine (3 x 10(-7) mol/l), gallamine (7 x 10(-5) mol/l), and pancuronium (2 x 10(-6) mol/l), but not d tubocurarine (5 x 10(-6) mol/l) significantly increased stimulated release of 3H NE. The effect of MR on resting or evoked release of 3H-NE was not influenced by 10(-4) mol/l cocaine. In the presence of atropine gallamine and pancuronium did not affect the release of 3H-NE. This finding indicates that the effect of MR was mediated via presynaptic muscarinic receptors. Muscle relaxants and atropine inhibited these receptors and removed the tonic inhibitory effect of acetylcholine (ACh) released from the parasympathetic nerve endings on the release of NE from the sympathetic nerve. This was substantiated by the finding that in the present of cholinesterase inhibition, when the effect of endogenous ACh was amplified and thereby the cholinergic tone was dominant, the total release of 3H-NE evoked by stimulation was much lower and muscle relaxants and atropine were much more effective to enhance 3H-NE release. Gallamine and pancuronium also increased the force of contraction of the electrically stimulated atria. These findings indicate that the acceleration of the heart rate observed with gallamine and pancuronium in anesthetized man is due to increased release from, and not the inhibition of reuptake of NE by the sympathetic nerve endings of the right atrium. PMID- 2525178 TI - High affinity serotonin binding sites in human brain: a comparison of cerebral cortex and basal ganglia. AB - The high-affinity binding of 3H-serotonin and 3H-DPAT was studied in membrane preparations and tissue sections of cerebral cortex and basal ganglia of human brain. In tissue sections, 3H-serotonin bound to sites present at high density in the cerebral cortex, hippocampus and basal ganglia. 3H-DPAT bound predominantly to the outer layers of the cerebral cortex and the hippocampus, no significant binding was observed in the basal ganglia. In cortical membranes 3H-serotonin bound to a heterogeneous population of sites, one of which was similar to a binding site labelled by 3H-DPAT (the putative 5HT-1A receptor). 3H-serotonin binding to membranes prepared from the putamen displayed low affinity for DPAT, mesulergine and spiperone, RU24969 was considerably less potent than serotonin itself. This 3H-serotonin binding site does not have the properties of those sites described in rodent brain (5HT-1A, 5HT-1B, and 5HT-1C), and may represent a novel serotoninergic binding site. PMID- 2525179 TI - Unilateral paresis of the abdominal wall: a radicular syndrome caused by herniation of the L1-2 disc? PMID- 2525180 TI - Phosphofructokinase in rabbit dental pulp is less sensitive to ATP inhibition. AB - ATP-dependent profiles of phosphofructokinase (PFK) activity were determined in both crude and Sephadex G-25-filtered fractions from rabbit dental pulp. ATP had a dual effect on PFK as an activator and an inhibitor, according to its concentration. Gel-filtered PFK showed a similar profile to that of crude PFK, indicating a lack of low-molecular-weight effector(s) for PFK in rabbit dental pulp. For complete inhibition of the PFK in rabbit dental pulp, 5 mM ATP was required. This level of ATP is much higher than that required for other typical isozymes of PFK from liver, skeletal muscle or brain. It is postulated that differences in the properties of PFK isozymes are due not only to the subunit structure but also to the presence of other effectors. PMID- 2525181 TI - Effect of oral ingestion of different fractions of Allium cepa on the blood and erythrocyte membrane lipids and certain membrane-bound enzymes in rats. AB - The effect of oral ingestion of different fractions of onion (Allium cepa)- extract, residue, and whole--at a dose level equivalent to intake of 50 g of onion per day for a 70-kg man, for 30 days, to male adult, normal, albino rats was studied on blood and erythrocyte membrane lipids and certain membrane-bound enzymes. Onion extract and residue showed hypercholesterolemic effect, while whole onion showed hypocholesterolemic effect in blood. In erythrocyte membranes, all the fractions had hypocholesterolemic and hypolipidemic effect, which was accompanied by changes in the erythrocyte membrane enzymes studied, i.e., alkaline and acid phosphatase, 5'-nucleotidase, total and Mg2+ ATPase. The above study indicated that it is safer to take whole onion rather than onion residue or extract, because whole onion could lower the blood cholesterol level even in normal condition and has a less pronounced effect on the micro-environment of the cells. PMID- 2525182 TI - Differences between a supervised and independent strength and conditioning program with chronic low back syndromes. AB - The purpose of this study was to evaluate changes in physiologic parameters seen in a group of patients with chronic low back syndrome assigned to supervised and independent strength and conditioning programs. Forty patients with chronic low back syndrome were assigned either to a control group (independent exercise) or to an experimental group (supervised exercise). All subjects underwent pre testing for aerobic fitness, strength and responses to visual analog pain rating scales. Twenty control subjects were given predesigned exercise programs and told to exercise four times per week for 6 months. Twenty experimental subjects were given predesigned exercise programs but were monitored by a strength and conditioning specialist for the same period. Statistically significant results were seen for increases in aerobic fitness and strength, decreases in reported pain, and percent body fat in the experimental group. Since the experimental group completed 90.75 sessions out of 96, compared with 31.95 for the control group, it could be concluded that supervision increases chances for compliance and success as measured by these parameters. PMID- 2525183 TI - Serum pregnancy-associated alpha 2-glycoprotein levels in the evolution of hepatitis B virus infection. AB - Serum pregnancy-associated alpha 2-glycoprotein (alpha 2-PAG) levels were evaluated in a follow-up study of patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and compared with biochemical and virological parameters. In a study of 25 patients with acute hepatitis, an association was found between high alpha 2-PAG values, ALT levels, and HBsAg in 20 patients (80%) (P less than 0.05), 18 recovered completely, and 2 had a protracted course. In five patients serum alpha 2-PAG levels were similar to those in the control group. On the other hand, eight (100%) chronic persistent HBV patients showed high levels of alpha 2-PAG (P less than 0.05) during the study period, and these levels correlated well with inflammatory activity and failure of HBsAg elimination. There were no significant differences in alpha 2-PAG values between asymptomatic HBsAg carriers and controls. Serial analysis of alpha 2-PAG, in correlation with viral markers, biochemical parameters, and histological data, would contribute to the ability to predict the final outcome of HBV infection. PMID- 2525184 TI - Gastroschisis: a 17-year experience. AB - From 1970 to 1987, 23 neonates with gastroschisis were treated at Kobe Children's Hospital. One patient died and 22 survived (96%). Seven patients were hypothermic upon arrival at the hospital, with body temperatures of 31.8 to 35.4 degrees C. Six patients were successfully managed by warm saline bathing (40 to 42 degrees C for one minute) to improve hypothermia. One patient who did not receive this rewarming procedure (body temperature, 31.8 degrees C) died of intractable metabolic disorders related to hypothermia. Ten patients were treated by primary fascial closure of the abdominal wall defect, eight by the skin flap method with secondary closure of the deliberately created abdominal hernia, and five by the silastic sac technique. Two patients required creation of intestinal stomas for ileal atresia. After surgery, 19 patients required ventilatory care with total paralysis (average 6.0 days). Nine patients required total parenteral nutrition (TPN), while 13 tolerated enteral feeding on days 3 to 11 (average, 6.0 days). In the latter 13 patients, intravenous fluid therapy was discontinued on day 11. Our experience suggests that (1) rewarming in a saline bath is effective treatment for hypothermia, (2) ventilatory assistance with total paralysis is mandatory, and (3) TPN can be avoided in 60% of the patients. PMID- 2525185 TI - Quantitative estimation of enzymatic changes in the trigeminal ganglia of rat with acute high dose of methylmercuric chloride. PMID- 2525186 TI - Neocarzinostatin induces neuronal morphology of mouse neuroblastoma in culture. AB - Neocarzinostatin, an antineoplastic agent which consists of a chromophore noncovalently bound to a protein of approximately 10,000D MW, induces the morphological differentiation of cells of the C1300 murine neuroblastoma line in vitro. It also has antimitotic activity, ascribed previously in other cell lines to the action of the chromophore upon DNA. The chromophore is antimitotic for neuroblastoma cells, as well. The morphology-altering effect of neocarzinostatin can also be mimicked by chromophore alone. The morphology-altering effect becomes apparent at doses of the agent which decrease the culture growth rate to approximately 50% of control values. It appears that induction of morphological neural differentiation of neuroblastoma cells requires an increase in the doubling time above a critical value. PMID- 2525187 TI - Laparoscopic removal of intrauterine devices with retracted threads. AB - Sixteen women had intrauterine devices (IUDs) with retracted threads. If an IUD with retracted thread is located within the uterus or intramurally, hysteroscopic removal is advisable. If it is located intraabdominally, laparoscopic removal is recommended. PMID- 2525188 TI - Predictors of pelvic adhesions. AB - The presence of pelvic adhesions is implicated as a significant cause of pelvic pain, bowel obstruction and infertility in women. Laparoscopy has become an invaluable method for the evaluation and treatment of such adhesions. A prospective study was designed to correlate specific findings in the preoperative history and physical examination with the presence of adhesions seen at laparoscopy. Two hundred seventy-three consecutive patients undergoing laparoscopy were analyzed; pelvic adhesions were found in 99 (36.3%). At the time of laparoscopy the only historical predictor found to be associated with adhesive disease was previous pelvic surgery. Physical examination predictors associated with the presence of adhesions were uterine immobility, a right adnexal mass and right adnexal tenderness. PMID- 2525189 TI - Discourse analysis and pragmatics in the design of a conversation prosthesis. PMID- 2525190 TI - A model-based approach to the specification of computer-based communication aids. AB - This paper describes and discusses a strategy for the design of an expressive communication aid for the non-vocal which is highly flexible and which embodies the principle of user-specifiable function. Some of the implications which arise when an intuitively common system configuration is adopted in practice are examined. It is shown that a principal feature of the design process and subsequent assessment of the system is the way in which modelling of processes, mechanisms or functions provides a common focus for establishing the important criteria for system design and evaluation of its applicability. PMID- 2525191 TI - Development and preliminary evaluation of two speech communication aids. AB - In this paper two projects on speech communication aids for the speech-impaired are discussed. Since the group of speech-impaired people is very diverse, the two projects differ in target group, in the speech technology used and consequently in the complexity of input of the aids. In both projects (Pocketstem and Tiepstem) experimental models have been developed, and in the case of Pocketstem prototypes have been developed and evaluated by potential users. This paper describes the aids, their evaluation, the evaluation results and some conclusions and future plans. PMID- 2525193 TI - JAL2: an integrated tool to enhance communication and autonomy of disabled people. AB - JAL2 is an integrated tool which enhances communication skills for people--mainly those with cerebral palsy--who suffer from any kind of disability that prevents speech. JAL2 can be used as a portable communicator and has an editor which can construct any text. It can also substitute for the keyboard of a personal computer, allowing the disabled the use of these machines. Furthermore, it is used to control one's personal environment by means of an infra-red transmitter. All of these options, scanned on a display, are accessed through a push-button. PMID- 2525192 TI - A fast communication aid for non-verbal subjects with severe motor handicaps. AB - A computer-based communication system for non-verbal persons with severely deficient coordination of the upper extremities is described. The device doubles as an environmental control unit. Modular design is chosen throughout. Commercially available subunits are used to reduce cost. Input is by a 3 x 3 keyboard, when the user has some command over his hands. Otherwise a binary 'autoscan' access mode is used, which is controlled by repeated closures of a single binary switch. Output is in written form on a display or acoustical by synthesized speech. Hard-copy output can also be provided. Remote communication is possible by modem or by synthesized speech. Speed of message generation is increased by establishing a vocabulary, which contains, in addition to signs and letters of the alphabet, whole words and stereotyped phrases. The data blocks of the latter are accessed by a single input cycle similar to that used for the selection of isolated letters, symbols, etc. PMID- 2525194 TI - New possibilities for enhanced keyboard input for the handicapped. AB - Motor- and speech-impaired people can have severe problems with communication. If speech is hampered, the use of computerized communication devices can be a solution. Key entry limitations due to motor impairments may result in very low communication speeds--less than three words a minute is not unusual. The research described here deals with speed enhancement on the basis of redundancy in language. Two uses are explored: prediction and automatic decoding in the case of keyboards with a small number of keys. Prediction means that characters, words and (parts of) sentences are predicted on the basis of text which is already typed in. A prototype system is being designed which combines the features of the PAL prediction system from Dundee and the WRITE-keyboard from Boston. Decoding refers to two-step selection systems with a small number of keys in which the second selection is done automatically by a computer program. Keystroke savings of 40 to 50% are possible. PMID- 2525195 TI - The European Community concerted action on rehabilitation of the visually impaired. PMID- 2525196 TI - The use of information technology in rehabilitation: an overview of possibilities and new directions in applications. PMID- 2525197 TI - Optical and eye-controlled communication aids. PMID- 2525198 TI - Addition of misonidazole, etanidazole, or hyperthermia to treatment with fluosol DA/carbogen/radiation. AB - The antitumor efficacy of adding the nitroimidazole radiosensitizing drugs misonidazole and etanidazole or hyperthermia (43 degrees C for 30 min) to Fluosol DA/carbogen (95% O2/5% CO2) and irradiation was tested in the FSaIIC tumor system. Both the nitroimidazole drugs and hyperthermia produced additional tumor growth delays and tumor cell cytotoxicity when given with Fluosol-DA/carbogen, either before or after irradiation. For each of the modalities tested, the dose modifying effect was greater when that therapy preceded rather than followed irradiation (misonidazole 2.7 vs. 1.9, etanidazole 2.4 vs. 1.7, hyperthermia 4.0 vs. 1.7 relative to the effect of radiotherapy alone). Because the nitroimidazole drugs must be present before radiation is administered to exert their radiosensitizing effect, the increase in tumor growth delay observed when these drugs cytotoxic to hypoxic cells were administered following Fluosol-DA/carbogen and irradiation suggests that Fluosol-DA/carbogen could not fully oxygenate the tumors and that the nitroimidazole drugs were effectively toxic to residual hypoxic cells. The treatment Fluosol-DA/carbogen----hyperthermia----irradiation produced a marked increase in tumor growth delay not seen with the sequence Fluosol-DA/carbogen----irradiation----hyperthermia. The results indicate that a treatment combination of radiation sensitizers may be more effective than irradiation plus Fluosol-DA with oxygen breathing alone. PMID- 2525200 TI - Clinical efficacy of 99mtechnetium mercaptoacetylglycine kit formulation in routine renal scintigraphy. AB - 99mTechnetium mercaptoacetylglycine is a promising new renal radiopharmaceutical undergoing phase III trials in the United States. In a preliminary investigation of the efficacy and safety of mercaptoacetylglycine in 30 adult patients with suspected renal disease we used simultaneous imaging with orthoiodohippurate as the physiological "gold standard". Of these patients 11 had undergone renal transplantation. Factors, such as time to peak renal activity, clearance half life and regional functional comparison, were similar by orthoiodohippurate and mercaptoacetylglycine imaging. Visual and quantitative analysis of angiograms and renograms was markedly facilitated with the use of mercaptoacetylglycine. Several morphological abnormalities were apparent only during mercaptoacetylglycine evaluation. No adverse effects, changes in vital signs or significant changes in clinical laboratory status were encountered. Since mercaptoacetylglycine combined an excellent technetium image with the pharmacokinetics of orthoiodohippurate, mercaptoacetylglycine may supplant all other agents for routine clinical use. PMID- 2525201 TI - [Roles of macrophages and dendritic cells in the initiation of immune responses]. PMID- 2525199 TI - The effect of adrenal surgery on plasma atrial natriuretic factor and sodium escape phenomenon in patients with primary aldosteronism. AB - Plasma concentrations of atrial natriuretic factor and some vasoactive substances were determined in 8 patients with aldosterone-producing adenoma, 10 with idiopathic adrenal hyperplasia, 10 normotensive subjects and 12 patients with essential hypertension. Plasma atrial natriuretic factor concentration in patients with aldosterone-producing adenoma was the highest among the examined groups. Adrenal surgery reduced plasma concentrations of atrial natriuretic factor and aldosterone concomitant with the elevation in urinary sodium excretion, plasma renin activity and urinary sodium-to-potassium ratio. Withdrawal of trilostane (3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase inhibitor) in patients with idiopathic adrenal hyperplasia increased plasma concentrations of atrial natriuretic factor and aldosterone, and decreased the urinary sodium-to potassium ratio, plasma renin activity and urinary sodium excretion. However, reduced urinary sodium excretion following trilostane treatment returned to the control level successively despite the high levels of plasma atrial natriuretic factor and aldosterone. Acute infusion of saline remarkably increased plasma atrial natriuretic factor concentration in patients with idiopathic adrenal hyperplasia and aldosterone-producing adenoma. These results suggest that a high level of atrial natriuretic factor is a characteristic feature in patients with aldosterone-producing adenoma caused chiefly by the expansion of extracellular fluid volume, and circulating atrial natriuretic factor may contribute to regulation of the sodium escape phenomenon in patients with aldosterone-producing adenoma or idiopathic adrenal hyperplasia. PMID- 2525202 TI - [Age-related decrease of 11C-N-methylspiperone in vivo binding to human striatum detected by PET]. AB - The effect of aging on 11C-N-methylspiperone binding to living human striatum was demonstrated using positron emission tomography. The 11 normal volunteers (22 to 72 years old) participated in this study. The uptake of 11C-N-methylspiperone in the brain following intravenous injection was highest in the striatum in individual subject. And the uptake in the striatum only gradually increased until the end of the study. The uptake of 11C-N-methylspiperone in cerebellum peaked within 10 minutes following injection and then rapidly dropped. The association rate constant "k3" was calculated from the slope of the radioactivity-ratio of striatum to cerebellum versus the equivalent time. The equivalent time was calculated from the radioactivity of cerebellum as an input function. The exponential decrease of the k3 value with aging was observed. The k3 value of the youngest subject (22 years old, male) was 0.035/min, while that of the oldest one (72 years old, male) was found to be 0.020/min. These data suggested that the dopaminergic activity through D2 dopamine receptors reduces with aging in human striatum. PMID- 2525203 TI - Relation of sodium-potassium adenosine triphosphatase inhibitor to sympathetic nervous system during salt-loading in essential hypertension. AB - The present study was designed to assess if the release of Na-K ATPase inhibitor (NKAI) after salt-loading is related to sympathetic nervous system in essential hypertension. Thirteen patients with essential hypertension were studied during low-salt diet (2 g/day) and then high-salt diet (20 g/day) for each 7-days period. Mean blood pressure (MBP), body weight, Na:K ratio in red blood cell (R Na/K), plasma norepinephrine (PNE) and NKAI were measured on the last day of each period. NKAI was determined by the degree of the inhibition of dog kidney Na-K ATPase activity by deproteinized plasma. Patients were classified as "salt sensitive" (SS) or "nonsalt-sensitive" (NSS) group by the MBP responses to salt loading. With the high-salt diet, SS group showed more body weight gain, greater increase in R-Na/K and NKAI (SS; 8.0 +/- 1.0%, NSS; 2.4 +/- 0.8%, P less than 0.01) than NSS group. PNE showed no changes in SS group and decreased in NSS group (P less than 0.05). The increase of MBP was highly correlated with the rise of NKAI (r = 0.76, P less than 0.01). Moreover, the increase of NKAI was also significantly correlated with the changes of PNE (r = 0.62, P less than 0.05). These results suggest that the greater increase in blood pressure by salt-loading in SS patients can be attributed to the increase of NKAI, which might regulate the sympathetic nervous system as a result of increased intracellular sodium. PMID- 2525205 TI - Problems in the long-term treatment of hypertension--withdrawal of antihypertensive drugs and regression of cardiac hypertrophy. PMID- 2525204 TI - A case of insulin dependent diabetes mellitus associated with relapsing polychondritis, Hashimoto's thyroiditis and pituitary adrenocortical insufficiency in succession. AB - The case of a 40 year-old woman with insulin dependent diabetes mellitus associated with relapsing polychondritis, Hashimoto's thyroiditis and pituitary adrenocortical insufficiency in succession, considered as polyglandular autoimmune syndrome type III, is described. The results of this study suggest that relapsing polychondritis and pituitary adrenocortical insufficiency might be included in polyglandular autoimmune syndrome. It is very interesting that in the pathogenicity of polyglandular autoimmune syndrome type III, the elevation of OKT4/OKT8 ratio which indicates the hypofunction of suppressor T cell is shown and that she has HLA DR4 which has a significant relationship with insulin dependent diabetes mellitus in Japanese. PMID- 2525206 TI - [Flowcytometric analysis of lymphocytes proliferated in vitro by PPD]. AB - The present study was undertaken to do phenotype determination of in vitro proliferating lymphocytes by PPD stimulation using combination of monoclonal antibodies and flow-cytometry. The results obtained were as follows: 1) PPD induced a significant proliferation of activated T cell subsets (Leu4+DR+ cells, IL2-R+Leu3+ cells). 2) PPD also induced a significant increase in Pan T cells (Leu4+) and helper T cells (Leu3+8-). Taken together, these results indicated that PPD induced proliferating lymphocytes belong predominantly to helper T cell subset. 3) The numbers of inducer T cells (Leu3+8+), suppressor T cells (Leu2+15+) and cytotoxic T cells (Leu2+15-) were not influenced by PPD stimulation. 4) However, PPD induced a smaller, but significant proliferation of IL2-R+Leu2+ cells. 5) The number of B cells (Leu4-DR+) tended to increase slightly after PPD-stimulation. PMID- 2525207 TI - [Automatic electrocardiographic diagnosis of the main types of arrhythmia at a remote cardiologic consultation and diagnostic center]. AB - A combination of methods based on hardware, software and mathematical support, was used to filter an ECG signal, transmitted telemetrically to the computer. Clusterization of P-Q and R-R intervals was used as primary informative ECG signs, providing the basis for the diagnosis of the type of heart rhythm disorder. The comparison was made by correlation of ranges. An algorithm, based on unconventional clinical signs, was developed. An analysis of 672 electrocardiograms has demonstrated that mean sensitivity of the proposed automated diagnosis of the basic heart rhythm is 96.9%, and its specificity is 98.0%. PMID- 2525208 TI - Colonic mucosectomy using laser photodynamic therapy. AB - Photodynamic therapy (PDT) involves photosensitizing tissue and then activating it with monochromatic light, causing necrosis. Precise control of the extent of injury should be possible by varying the energy density of the light applied to the target tissue. We tested the sensitivity of colonic tissue to PDT by injecting 10 mg/kg Photofrin II intraperitoneally in 10 rats. After 24 hr the left colon was opened and cleansed. A 1.0-cm2 area of mucosa was exposed to 630 nm (red) light produced by an argon-pumped dye laser. Pairs of rats were treated with energy densities of either 10, 20, 40, 60, or 80 J/cm2, controlled by varying exposure times. After 48 hr, we sacrificed the rats and fixed, sectioned, and stained the left colons. The depth of injury was measured with an ocular micrometer and expressed as a percentage of normal bowel wall thickness. A curve was fit to the data points by computerized nonlinear regression. The relationship between depth of injury (Y) and energy density (X) was found to fit the equation Y = 1 - aebx, where constants a = 1.15 and b = -0.0353, (R2 = 0.93, P less than 0.001). The relationship between injury and energy density is biphasic, rising rapidly from 0 to 40 J/cm2 and more slowly after this point, suggesting that colonic mucosa is more sensitive to PDT than muscularis, providing a margin of safety against perforation. Bowel perforation did not occur in this study but is predicted by extrapolation for energy densities of 100 J/cm2 or greater. These data indicate that photodynamic colonic mucosectomy is possible. PMID- 2525210 TI - Distinct regulatory effects of IL-4 and TNF-alpha during CD3-dependent and CD3 independent initiation of human T-cell activation. AB - The present study examines the effects of IL-4 and TNF-alpha on the CD3-dependent (Ag/MHC-initiated or anti-CD3 mAb-initiated) and CD3-independent (IL-2-initiated) pathways of the initiation of human T-cell activation. Both IL-4 and TNF-alpha significantly augmented the CD3-dependent T-cell proliferation induced by either irradiated OKT3 hybridoma cells or allogeneic B cells. In contrast, the CD3 independent IL-2-initiated T-cell proliferation was enhanced by TNF-alpha and significantly inhibited by IL-4. Although the growth-enhancing effects of both IL 4 and TNF-alpha on the CD3-dependent T-cell proliferation were noticeable regardless of when these cytokines were introduced in culture, the inhibitory effect of IL-4 on the CD3-independent IL-2-initiated T-cell activation was observed only if IL-4 was added at the initiation but not later than 24 hr of "T cells + IL-2" cultures. The growth-enhancing effects of both IL-4 and TNF-alpha on the CD3-dependent T-cell activation were not confined to any one subset of T cells. On the other hand, IL-4 inhibited the IL-2-induced proliferation of CD4+ (helper/inducer) T cells and CD45R+ (virgin) T cells but not that of CD8+ (cytotoxic/suppressor) T cells and CD45R (memory) T cells. When examined for their effects on cytokine production, CD3-dependent production of IL-2 and IFN gamma was affected by neither cytokine, whereas IL-4 strongly inhibited the production of IFN-gamma by IL-2-stimulated T cells. Consistent with their enhancing and inhibitory effects, respectively, on IL-2-induced T-cell proliferation, TNF-alpha augmented and IL-4 inhibited the development of IL-2 stimulated MHC-unrestricted cytolytic (MUC) T-cell activity directed against tumor cells. When deprived of IL-2, MUC T cells rapidly lose their cytolytic activity, and despite its inhibitory effect on the development of MUC T cells, exposure of IL-2-deprived MUC T cells with decaying cytolytic activity to IL-4 retards the decay in their cytolytic activity. These results suggest the differential regulatory effects of IL-4 and TNF-alpha during human T-cell activation. PMID- 2525209 TI - Prednisone, azathioprine, and cyclosporine A toxicity on human fetal pancreas. AB - The limited clinical success of human fetal pancreas (HFP) transplantation may be related to graft toxicity caused by immunosuppressant agents. This study describes the effects of prednisone (PRED), azathioprine (AZA), and cyclosporine A (CSA) on HFP tissue in vitro and in vivo. To assess in vitro function, fresh HFP explants (1-2 mm3; 16-21 weeks gestational age) were prepared and cultured 72 hr in supplemented Ham's medium containing varying concentrations of each drug. Insulin release in response to high glucose (17 mM) and theophylline (10 mM) challenge was determined and compared to basal release in low glucose (3 mM) buffer. No significant difference in insulin release was observed between culture control tissue and drug-cultured tissue throughout the concentration range (10( 8) -10(-4) M; P greater than 0.05). To assess in vivo function, cyropreserved HFP explants were transplanted under the kidney capsule of streptozotocin-induced diabetic nude mice. Mice were immunosuppressed with PRED (1 mg/kg), AZA (1 mg/kg), CSA (30 mg/kg), or combined triple drug therapy (COMBO), and glucose levels followed weekly. Hyperglycemia reversal and insulin withdrawal were observed in all drug groups [PRED (4/6), AZA (4/6), CSA (2/4), COMBO, (2/4)] and were not statistically different from control (5/8; P greater than 0.8). Time to insulin withdrawal was significantly different from control (12.2 +/- 2.2 weeks; P less than 0.05) only for AZA (10 +/- 0 weeks; PRED, 12.3 +/- 2.6 weeks; CSA, 11 +/- 0 weeks; COMBO, 15 +/- 0 weeks). Additionally, oral glucose tolerance tests in all groups were equivalent to nondiabetic controls. We were unable to demonstrate PRED, AZA, or CSA toxicity on HFP.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525211 TI - T cell receptor alpha expression in B-type chronic lymphocytic leukemia. AB - Normal B lymphocytes are characterized by rearrangement and expression of immunoglobulin genes, but not of T cell receptor genes. These properties might assist in lineage assignment, but there are examples of fresh leukemic cells and of cell lines where exceptions to this rule have been noted. We have studied cell samples of patients with B-CLL for expression of TCR alpha and beta chain genes. Using in situ hybridization with fluorescein-labeled probes, TCR alpha mRNA was found to be expressed in 14 of 18 samples and TCR beta mRNA in 7 of 16 samples. Specificity of hybridization was demonstrated by near complete blockade of TCR alpha hybridization with unlabeled TCR alpha, but not with unlabeled TCR beta probe. Furthermore, in Northern blot analysis a truncated 1,4 kb message for TCR alpha was readily detectable. No significant cell surface staining with the anti TCR alpha/beta monoclonal antibody WT31 was observed. A contribution of T cells within the leukemic sample could be excluded since only samples with leukemic cell counts of greater than 50,000 cells/mm3 and only samples with 5% or less CD2+ T lymphocytes were studied. Our data show that a large proportion of B-CLL samples may express a truncated version of the TCR alpha message, indicating that this gene can be activated in leukemic B cells frozen at a late stage of differentiation. PMID- 2525212 TI - [The man behind the syndrome: George Huntington. His only work--On chorea--became a classic]. PMID- 2525213 TI - [Heat accumulating back support diminishes sick-leave time in acute lumbago]. PMID- 2525214 TI - Thermal effects of stationary "hot tip" laser coronary probes: an in vitro assessment. AB - Percutaneous laser thermal probe angioplasty requires sufficient laser probe flexibility to access the coronary tree. This may entail a loss of axial strength and the resultant slow advancement may lead to unwanted heating of the normal coronary artery proximal to the lesion. To assess the lateral thermal effects of stationary coronary laser probes, laser thermal energy (50-150 J) was delivered to 25 coronary artery segments (diameter 1.9-4.0 mm) in a perfused cadaver heart preparation using a 1.7 mm tip probe. Adherence to the vessel wall occurred in 19 segments, endothelial charring in 8 segments, and perforation in 3 segments. Endothelial charring was seen in 8 of 13 nonperfused segments but in 0 of 12 segments perfused at 60 ml/minute (P less than 0.01). In all three perforations the vessel to probe diameter ratio was less than 1.6:1, perfusion was absent, and traction to dislodge the adherent probe was necessary. Lateral wall damage is a complication of stationary laser probes: smaller-tipped probes which are advanced rapidly at the time of energy delivery may enhance the safety margins of coronary laser thermal probe angioplasty. PMID- 2525215 TI - Laser balloon angioplasty versus balloon angioplasty in normal rabbit iliac arteries. AB - Reduction of vascular recoil is an important goal of laser balloon angioplasty (LBA), wherein Nd:YAG laser radiation is delivered radially during balloon inflation. To define the acute and chronic effects of LBA on the normal arterial lumen in comparison with those of balloon angioplasty (BA), 36 New Zealand White male rabbits (3-4 kg) were subjected to LBA of an external iliac artery and to BA of the contralateral artery with two 1-minute balloon inflations. During LBA, which was performed during the second balloon inflation, either 300 (n = 26) or 176 (n = 10) J were delivered to achieve high and moderate laser doses, respectively, in different LBA groups. Angiography was performed pre- and post LBA/BA and subsequently at intervals of either 1, 2, 7, 28, 48, or 223 days. Automated analysis of digitized images was used to measure lumen diameter. No instance of perforation or thrombosis occurred. LBA-treated arteries acutely showed an increase in mean diameter over baseline (+ .5 mm, P less than .01) and that of BA-treated arteries (+ .4 mm, P less than .01). While arteries treated with the high laser dose showed a loss of the initial gain in lumen diameter by 1 month, caused by both extravascular fibrosis of the thinwalled (less than 0.1 mm) artery and mild neointimal proliferation which were not reduced by daily administration of aspirin in seven rabbits, arteries treated with the moderate laser dose retained the increment in mean diameter at 1 month over that of BA treated arteries (+ .5 mm, P less than .05). Thus, unlike BA, LBA increases luminal diameter acutely and, at a moderate laser dose, chronically. PMID- 2525216 TI - Photofrin II localization in rat cecum. AB - Laser excitation of photodynamic agents localizing in colonic tumors may allow the early diagnosis and treatment of colon cancer. The efficacy of these agents requires a high ratio of tumor to background photosensitizer accumulation and fluorescence. To assess normal colonic background fluorescence and hematoporphyrin accumulation 31 rats were studied after an intravenous injection of Photofrin II (PF-II) at a dose of 5 mg/kg. An increase in mucosal fluorescence and porphyrin content was noted in the cecum 24 hours after injection. Cecal accumulation of PF-II may affect its efficacy in the localization and treatment of cecal tumors. Further investigation into the mechanism and clinical significance of this finding is needed. PMID- 2525217 TI - Natriuretic and hypotensive effects of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) in spontaneously hypertensive rats. AB - Effects of four doses (0.1, 0.2, 1.0 and 2.0 nmol/kg) of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) on natriuresis and blood pressure were investigated in anesthetized spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY). An intravenous injection of 1.0 and 2.0 nmol/kg of BNP caused a significant increase of natriuresis and reduction of blood pressure in SHR and WKY. These effects were essentially identical to the effects of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP). Remarkable bioactivity elicited by BNP rasises the possibility that BNP has a role in the regulation of blood pressure and water-electrolyte balance. On the other hand, when the effects of BNP on both strains of rats were compared with those of alpha-human ANP reported previously, the hypotensive effect of BNP was less than those of alpha-human ANP only in SHR. It is suggested that BNP might have different bioactivity than that of ANP in SHR. PMID- 2525218 TI - Central nervous system mediated vasodepressor action of atrial natriuretic factor. AB - Administration of 20, 4 or 2.5 micrograms/kg of atriopeptin III (AT III) into the fourth ventricle of the brain of spontaneously hypertensive rats produced a 13, 14 and 7 mm Hg decrease in MAP respectively, while 1 microgram/kg had no effect on MAP and was significantly different from 20 or 4 micrograms/kg (p less than 0.025). In contrast, injection of AT III 20 micrograms/kg into the lateral ventricle did not produce a change in MAP. To examine an interaction of AT III with the opioidergic system, the opiate antagonist, naloxone HCl, 10 micrograms, was given by ICV injection 10 minutes prior to AT III, and significantly prevented the depressor response to AT III (p less than 0.025 compared with AT III alone). Injection of specific anti-sera to beta-endorphin failed to prevent the AT III-induced depressor response. Our results demonstrate that AT III can act within the central nervous system to decrease the MAP of rats, most likely at a locus in proximity to the fourth ventricle of the brain. Further, an interaction with the central opioidergic nervous system underlies the central effects of AT III. PMID- 2525219 TI - [The organization and equipping of the photolaboratory in the radiography department]. PMID- 2525220 TI - [The N. A. Semashko Gorki Province Clinical Hospital--an all-Union school of forward experience]. PMID- 2525221 TI - The long-term involution of physiological cardiomegaly and cardiac hypertrophy. AB - The long-term involution of physiological cardiomegaly and cardiac hypertrophy. Med. Sci. Sports Exerc., Vol. 21, No. 3, pp. 244-249, 1989. Forty-five former athletes in endurance disciplines, primarily Olympic medalists and World Cup, European Cup, and German champions, for whom results of an exercise ECG and radiological heart volume measurement were available from their active competitive phase, were examined. The study protocol included clinical examination, laboratory controls, resting and exercise ECG, determination of cardiac volume, and one- and two-dimensional echocardiographic examination. Of the 45 former athletes contacted, 38 appeared for examination. Of these, four presented with heart disease (two with infarction, one with aortic stenosis, and one with arrhythmia). The remaining 34 were divided into groups of still active (more than 300 kcal.wk-1) and inactive (less than 300 kcal.wk-1) athletes. The interval between the first and second examination averaged 23 yr. The active former athletes showed a weight increase of 5.2% (P less than 0.01) and a reduction of 14% in ergometric performance (P less than 0.02). The inactive group had a marked weight increase of 17.4% (P less than 0.001); the ergometric performance was lowered by 20% (P less than 0.001). The absolute heart size had decreased in the active group by 6.1% (NS) and the relative heart size by 10.7% (P less than 0.005); the corresponding values in the inactive group were 4.5% (NS) and 18% (P less than 0.001).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525222 TI - [Heart failure. New knowledge on pathophysiology and therapy]. PMID- 2525223 TI - [The immunological profile of children with Down's syndrome]. AB - In 1965 Benda demonstrated that bioptic and autoptic material of children with Down's syndrome showed hypoplasia of the thymus with poor histological differentiation between the cortex and medulla and impairment of Hassal's corpuscles which were also fewer than normal. In the seventies studies revealed the increased susceptibility to infections and higher incidence of leucosis in Down's syndrome patients as well as changes of immunologic defences (in particular cell mediated immunity). This study examines 35 children (16 boys and 19 girls) aged 6 months-20 years. Subjects were divided into a group of 18 cases in poor health with a history of recurrent infections and a group of 17 children in good health. Skin tests were performed by inoculating 0.1 ml of a solution formed by 1 ml physiological solution and 0.1 ml tetanus toxoid. Skin reaction was evaluated 48 hours later. Lymphocyte typing tests were performed with the rosette method and with monoclonal antibodies for T lymphocytes and with the determination of surface immunoglobulins for B lymphocytes. OKT4 (T helper), OKT8 (T suppressor) subsets assayed and the OKT4/OKT8 ratio was determined. Skin tests were negative in 3 cases (8.6%). The number of B lymphocytes was normal in all children. Total number of lymphocytes was decreased in 51.4% of cases. Two subjects had a reduction of OKT4 and 14 had an increased of OKT8 and 16 a significantly lower OKT4/OKT8 ratio. It is clear that skin tests were normal also in those children with low total lymphocyte values. The most closely related parameter to mobility was the OKT4/OKT8 ratio and the most distantly related on was the skin test. Only 3 cases had modifications of all 3 parameters together. Apart from the constant and complete immunological deficit described by many authors and which we cannot confirm the results of this study are in agreement with those of other authors. PMID- 2525226 TI - Expression of the common acute lymphoblastic leukaemia antigen (CALLA) in the human breast. AB - A biochemical and immunohistological study has been carried out to characterize the antigen in human breast reacting with antibodies to the common acute lymphoblastic leukaemia antigen (CALLA). Four different monoclonal antibodies to the CALLA antigen all stain the membrane of adult human myoepithelial cells. Surface labelling studies of freshly prepared human breast cells demonstrate that the anti-CALLA antibody, J5, immunoprecipitates a 100 kDa protein that co electrophoreses with the CALLA antigen identified in the leukaemia cell line NALM 6. These results indicate that the CALLA antigen is expressed on myoepithelial cells and that the staining is not due to reactivity with a shared epitope on an unrelated molecule. PMID- 2525224 TI - Modulation of the SOS response by truncated RecA proteins. AB - RecA protein plays several key roles in the SOS response. We have constructed truncated proteins and examined their capacity to accomplish Weigle reactivation and mutagenesis of bacteriophage lambda and recombination in Escherichia coli. Our data indicate that the 17 carboxyl terminal amino acids are not essential to RecA function. However in the presence of wild-type RecA protein, the truncated protein reduces the efficiency of recombination without affecting either mutagenesis or induction of an SOS gene or Weigle reactivation. The data presented here suggest that activation of RecA protein does not involve mixed multimers or is not affected by their presence. PMID- 2525225 TI - Transcription of a region downstream from lambda ori is required for replication of plasmids derived from coliphage lambda. AB - DNA replication of lambda phage depends on transcriptional activation at or around the lambda ori region by RNA polymerase. To elucidate the function of the transcriptional activation, we constructed several plasmids carrying lambda ori and lacP, whose relative locations and directions were different from each other, and studied replication activity of these recombinant plasmids. Transcription in a region immediately downstream from lambda ori, but not in the lambda ori region, was found to be essential for plasmid replication. Transcription proceeding over a certain minimal length was required and only rightward-directed transcription was effective for the activation. PMID- 2525227 TI - [Formation of an IS1-induced deletion in pNt6::IS1 plasmid]. AB - The expression of oLpLN region of the plasmid pNT6 causes the high instability of the plasmid. Mutations in the promoter pL region and lesions in the structural part of the N gene result in the stable inheritance of the plasmid. The plasmids pNT6::IS1 containing the IS1-element inserted into the different loci of oLpLN region restore the high instability of the plasmid inheritance in the strain 4830 coding for oLpLN. The plasmids pIG3 and pIG4 of the series pNT6: :IS1 permit one to obtain the collection of random deletions in the cloned fragments induced by IS1-element. PMID- 2525228 TI - G2 effects of DNA-repair inhibitors on chromatid-type aberrations in root-tip cells treated with maleic hydrazide and mitomycin C. AB - In recent years the existence of a DNA-repair process in G2 has been proposed to explain the potentiating effects of DNA-repair inhibitors given in G2 on chromatid aberrations (CA) induced by S-dependent as well as S-independent DNA damaging agents. In the present report, root-tip cells of Allium cepa were exposed to maleic hydrazide (MH) or mitomycin C (MMC) and post-treated in G2 with caffeine (Caff) and various inhibitors of DNA synthesis. No enhancement of chromosome damage was observed when Caff was present in G2, but hydroxyurea (HU) or 5-fluorodeoxyuridine (FdUrd) potentiated the frequencies of CA. A slight additional increase of CA frequencies was observed following treatment with Ara C and excess thymidine in G2. When MH-damaged cells were pulse-treated with Caff earlier during recovery, the yield of CA was enhanced. The earlier Caff was present following MH treatment, the stronger was the potentiation. PMID- 2525230 TI - Plasma levels of atrial natriuretic peptide in transient left ventricular ischemia. PMID- 2525229 TI - Phosphorylation of erythrocyte membrane and cytoskeleton proteins in cells infected with Plasmodium falciparum. AB - Phosphorylation changes in the erythrocyte membrane and cytoskeletal proteins as a consequence of infection by the malarial parasite Plasmodium falciparum were examined. Spectrin, band 3, band 4.1, ankyrin and glycophorin are phosphorylated in normal erythrocytes. As a consequence of invasion by the merozoite, the extracellular stage of the parasite, into 32P-prelabeled normal erythrocytes, all the major 32P-labeled erythrocyte proteins are dephosphorylated. As the parasite develops intracellularly from the immature ring stage to the mature schizont stage, selective phosphorylation of certain host proteins, spectrin, ankyrin and band 3 is observed. Band 4.1 does not appear to incorporate [32P]phosphate at any stage of parasite development. These observed phosphorylation changes may be important in the regulation of the cytoskeletal organization in P. falciparum infected cells. PMID- 2525231 TI - Acquired immune tolerance to cadaveric renal allografts. A study of three patients treated with total lymphoid irradiation. PMID- 2525232 TI - Clonal anergy induced in mature V beta 6+ T lymphocytes on immunizing Mls-1b mice with Mls-1a expressing cells. AB - Tolerance to self-antigens has been shown to develop during ontogeny as a result of the clonal deletion of self-reactive T cells. Tolerance, or better 'nonresponsiveness', to specific antigens can also be induced in adult animals but the mechanism(s) involved are not well understood. Most murine T-helper cells that express the V beta 6 T-cell receptor gene segment are specific for Mls-1a antigens. We have therefore been able to use an anti-V beta 6 monoclonal antibody to follow the fate of Mls-1a specific T cells in adult Mls-1b mice made specifically unresponsive to Mls-1a. We show that the induced unresponsiveness is not due to clonal deletion, but rather to clonal anergy. The anergic V beta 6 T helper cells express IL-2 receptors and undergo limited blastogenesis in vitro upon stimulation, but do not produce IL-2, in marked contrast to V beta 6 cells from naive mice. Our data appear to represent an in vivo correlate for the induction of anergy that has been observed in T-cell lines in vitro. PMID- 2525233 TI - The Neurospora clock gene frequency shares a sequence element with the Drosophila clock gene period. AB - The isolation and characterization of single gene mutations affecting the circadian biological clocks of several organisms has left little doubt that circadian rhythms can be subjected to classical genetical analysis. Many of these mutations occur at the same few genetic loci (frequency (frq) in the fungus Neurospora, and period (per) in fruit fly Drosophila); these loci represent the best studied clock-affecting genes known. Mutant strains are usually affected in more than one basic clock property, suggesting an inter-relatedness at the molecular level among these basic properties that would not have been predicted a priori. The extensive background information available concerning the frq locus provides a basis for the molecular dissection of the Neurospora circadian clock- the most minimal circadian system thus far described. We report here the cloning and analysis of the frq locus and show it to be larger and more complex than would have been predicted from the available genetic data. Complete rescue of all of the pleiotropic mutant phenotypes of the recessive frq allele requires transformation with a 7.7-kilobase (kb) region of DNA encoding at least two transcripts. Sequence analysis of this region has allowed the identification of a common element between frq and per which, given the background similarities in their classical genetic characteristics, suggests the possibility of a common element in the clock mechanisms of these two organisms. PMID- 2525234 TI - The hidden danger of internal hemorrhage (continuing education credit). PMID- 2525235 TI - Mother and nurse, P.R.N. PMID- 2525236 TI - Comparison of 99Tcm-mercaptoacetyltriglycine and 131I-orthoiodohippurate in determination of effective renal plasma flow (ERPF). AB - Recent studies have suggested that 99Tcm-labelled mercaptoacetyltriglycine (99Tcm MAG3) is a potential replacement for 131I-orthoiodohippurate (131I-OIH). The two radiopharmaceuticals were studied in 19 patients with varying degrees of renal impairment, for comparison of effective renal plasma flow (ERPF). All patients were injected i.v. with 2-3 mCi 99Tcm-MAG3 and 250-300 microCi of 131I-OIH simultaneously in separate arms to avoid any chemical incompatibility. Serial digital images were acquired simultaneously for 99Tcm-MAG3 and 131I-OIH at 15 s per frame for 30 min. The renogram curve was generated and ERPF value was calculated for each kidney using both radiopharmaceuticals and applying the same computer program (Schlegel's program). In all cases, the 99Tcm-MAG3 and 131I-OIH renogram curves were quite similar. The values of ERPF of 99Tcm-MAG3 were not significantly different from those of 131I-OIH studies (paired t test, p less than 0.01). The correlation coefficient between the two methods was 0.95 (p less than 0.001) with a linear regression equation Y = -12.96 + 0.995X, where Y = ERPF determined by 131I-OIH and X = ERPF determined by 99Tcm-MAG3. This study indicates that 99Tcm-MAG3 is a useful 99Tcm replacement for 131I-OIH in the determination of ERPF and generation of renogram curves. PMID- 2525237 TI - Laparoscopic removal of dermoid cysts. PMID- 2525238 TI - Gynecologic health care of women with disabilities. AB - Information about their gynecologic health care was obtained from 55 women with acquired and congenital disabilities, 42% of whom were disabled after menarche. Although 91% of the entire group had received breast and pelvic examinations and Papanicolaou smears since their disability, only 18.8% had received counseling about sexuality and 64.6% had received information about contraception. However, those disabled after menarche were significantly less likely (P = .001) to be satisfied with the counseling or method they received. Women with paralysis, impaired motor function, obvious physical deformity were rarely offered contraceptive information or methods. These findings may be related in part to the characteristics of the patient group. However, we suggest that special attention needs to be directed to those disabled after menarche with respect to issues such as sexuality and contraception. This can be accomplished in part through improved education of health professionals regarding the various aspects of gynecologic health care for the disabled. PMID- 2525239 TI - Musculoskeletal injuries demand new treatment model. AB - Implementing this model is not easy or inexpensive. By design it is a cooperative effort that relies on multidisciplinary cooperation and intervention. It recognizes the true nature of industry's problem with musculoskeletal injuries: a complex, multifaceted problem that requires more than band-aids or quick fixes. Appropriate management of musculoskeletal injuries addressing all components of the model is a task that must be undertaken if industry is to control its medical costs. Controlled studies must be undertaken to determine the model's effectiveness in the long-term management of industrial musculoskeletal injuries. PMID- 2525240 TI - [Anomalies of refraction and optimal correction of ametropia in workers in the metallurgy industry]. AB - The state of refraction has been studied in workers of main shops of the Karaganda combined metallurgical plant, and methods for correction of the revealed ametropies determined. Anomalies of refraction were revealed in 39.5% of cases of the whole number of the subjects, and most frequently in workers of sheet-rolling and tin shops (52%). Myopia of various degree was recorded in 19.6%, hypermetropia--in 11.3%, astigmatism--in 3.1%, anisometropia--in 5.3% of cases. The obtained ergographic data base shows that correct ametropic correction in workers of metallurgical industry improves visual capability to work. The workers of metallurgical industry with anomalies of refraction were prescribed spectacle or contact lens correction; spectacles with fixing devices were used. Optimal correction of ametropia may be regarded as ophthalmoergonomic measure, being of great importance for improving visual capability to work in metallurgists. PMID- 2525242 TI - Educational approaches to management of low back pain. PMID- 2525241 TI - The v-mos and c-Ha-ras oncoproteins exert similar effects on the pattern of protein synthesis. AB - The effects of the ras and the mos oncogene products on the pattern of newly synthesized proteins was investigated in NIH3T3 cell lines. A conditional expression system which allowed hormonal induction of the oncogenes was utilized to detect effects on the accumulation of oncoproteins by two dimensional gel electrophoresis of crude cell extracts. Strong and reproducible changes of protein synthesis following the expression of the ras and mos oncogenes were detected. Transiently induced synthesis of four proteins with a molecular mass of 23 kDa, 32 kDa, 35 kDa, and 47 kDa was observed. These changes were qualitatively indistinguishable in both, ras and mos oncogene expressing cells. This is in agreement with the notion that the two oncogene products act on a common signal transduction pathway. Serum mediated growth induction of quiescent NIH3T3 cells led to a different pattern of altered protein synthesis. We observed the transient alteration in the synthesis rates of three proteins with a molecular mass of 27 kDa, 47 kDa and 52 kDa. Only the 47 kDa protein was also subject to regulation by the oncoproteins. One of the proteins whose synthesis was strongly induced by the ras and mos oncogene products is also expressed by heat shock. PMID- 2525243 TI - Perceived body space and self-esteem in adult males with and without chronic low back pain. AB - This comparative descriptive study investigated differences in perceived body space and self-esteem in adult males with and without chronic low back pain. Results indicated that no significant differences existed between the two groups. Ancillary findings indicated that adult males with chronic low back pain were more depressed than adult males with hypertension. Those with continuous chronic pain demonstrated higher depression scores and lower self-esteem scores than did those experiencing intermittent chronic pain. PMID- 2525244 TI - Acute and chronic pelvic pain. AB - Acute and chronic pelvic pain in the adolescent patient needs to be taken seriously. In most cases, an underlying cause can be identified. Under no circumstances should the label of psychogenic pain be offered on these teenagers without a prior negative laparoscopy. Adequate diagnosis and early therapy are essential to improve the quality of life and preserve the reproductive prognosis in these young patients. PMID- 2525245 TI - First Start: specially trained child care providers. AB - Child care programs that serve infants and toddlers with disabilities and chronic illnesses and that have staffs with specially trained caretakers can greatly improve the quality of life of these children. First Start is an interdisciplinary program that provides special training for these caretakers. PMID- 2525247 TI - [Contribution of the Leningrad Research Institute for Childhood Infections to the eradication of smallpox]. PMID- 2525246 TI - Adolescents, acne, and the side-effects of Accutane. AB - Acne affects about 70% of all adolescents. Nurses dealing with young people need to understand this skin disease and be familiar with the use and side effects of Accutane, the effective oral medication employed to treat it. PMID- 2525248 TI - [Evolution of rheumatism in children during the past 30 years]. AB - Based on the clinical, laboratory and instrumental studies made at the Cardiorheumatologic Department of the K.A. Rauchfuss City Child's Hospital in Leningrad the authors describe evolution shown by rheumatic fever in children over the recent 30 years. In their opinion, the cases of so-called classical rheumatic fever with moderate and maximal activity of the inflammatory process occurred more frequently over the recent years. In spite of this fact rheumatic fever in children is characterized today by the decreased number of relapses and by the reduced incidence of heart disease. Attention is drawn to the circumstance that over the recent years the pediatricians tend towards the underdiagnosis of rheumatic fever. PMID- 2525249 TI - [Substantiation of the reorganization of the activities of medical personnel at schools]. PMID- 2525250 TI - [A primary prevention center at a pediatric polyclinic]. PMID- 2525251 TI - [Epidemiology and sociomedical aspects of rheumatoid arthritis]. AB - Despite advances in the management of rheumatoid arthritis and the amelioration of disability due to the disease, it remains an important disease. In Finland rheumatoid arthritis is responsible for 3-4 per cent of all disease-related disability. In many cases, those affected are faced with decades of pain accompanied by social consequences and impairment of life quality. New diagnostic criteria are presented. PMID- 2525252 TI - Flanking DNA-sequences contribute to the specific binding of cI-repressor and OR1. AB - The binding of cI-repressor to a series of mutant operators containing OR1 of the right operator of bacteriophage lambda was investigated. Sites OR2 and/or OR3 were inactivated by either point or deletion mutations. The free energy of binding repressor to OR1 in the wildtype operator, delta G1, is -13.7 +/- 0.3 kcal/mol. delta G1 determined for an OR2- operator created by a single point mutation in OR2 is -13.6 +/- 0.2 kcal/mol. In contrast, delta G1 for the binding of repressor to a cloned synthetic OR1 operator containing only 24 bp of lambda sequence is -12.2 +/- 0.1 kcal/mol. When sequence 5' to OR1 is present, the binding affinity increases to -13.0 +/- 0.1 kcal/mol. In addition, the proximity of OR1 to a fragment-end decreases delta G1 from -13.7 to -12.3 +/- 0.1 kcal/mol. These results suggest that the DNA sequence outside the 17 bp OR1 binding-site contributes to the specific binding of cI-repressor. PMID- 2525253 TI - A novel frameshift mutation causing beta-thalassaemia in Azerbaijan. PMID- 2525254 TI - People with prospects. PMID- 2525255 TI - [Activities of the center for detection, treatment and ambulatory observation of patients with sarcoidosis]. AB - In tuberculosis dispensaries as centres for differential diagnosis of pulmonary diseases it is expedient to establish departments for diagnosis, treatment and dispensary observation of patients with sarcoidosis. This would provide verification of diagnoses with instrumental methods in 87.6 per cent of the cases and decrease of the average hospital stay for new cases of sarcoidosis and patients with relapses of the process by improving the examination and treatment procedures. At the background of the organized treatment and prophylactic measures progress in the disease was observed only in 4.7 per cent (14 persons) of the patients included into the dispensary group. PMID- 2525258 TI - Tryptamine impairs the acquisition of a one-way active avoidance task. AB - The effects of intraperitoneal administration of tryptamine to rats pretreated with iproniazid, on the acquisition of an unsignalled one-way active avoidance task, were examined. Tryptamine at 2.5 and 5 mg/kg significantly increased the number of trials required to perform this task to a 9/10 consecutive avoidances criterion, without affecting escape performance. The iproniazid pretreatment had no affect on acquisition, or any other performance variable, of the task. Tryptamine did not significantly affect the avoidance response, or escape response latencies; further tryptamine did not alter gross locomotor activity measured as photocell counts. These results suggest that the acquisition deficit was not the result of nonassociative effects such as changes in response capability, general activity level or nociception. The acquisition deficit induced by tryptamine may involve a direct stimulation of central 5-HT receptors since it was not induced by systemically administered 5-HT, was reversed by the 5 HT antagonists methysergide and metergoline, but was not affected by depletion of brain 5-HT, with PCPA, or by the dopamine antagonist haloperidol. Possible behavioural mechanisms for the action of tryptamine are discussed. PMID- 2525257 TI - The role of the purinergic system in the control of stereotypy: relationship to D 1/D-2 dopamine receptor activity. AB - A behavioral study on the stereotypy induced by caffeine and carbamazepine or caffeine and haloperidol was assessed in adult male rabbits. The stereotypy induced by caffeine + carbamazepine was not reduced by pretreatment with haloperidol (0.1 mg/kg) or SCH 23390 (0.01 mg/kg). N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine (NECA, 0.01 mg/kg), an A2 adenosine receptor agonist, completely prevented the appearance of caffeine + carbamazepine-, but not of caffeine + haloperidol induced stereotypy. An EEG investigation was also performed in order to evaluate the influence of the blockade of D-1 and D-2 dopamine receptors on the desynchronized tracing induced by caffeine (50 mg/kg). Neither haloperidol (0.1 mg/kg) nor SCH 23390 (0.01 mg/kg) were able to influence this EEG effect of caffeine. Present data support the hypothesis that A2 adenosine receptors may be involved in the control of pathological movements. The relationship between the purinergic system and D-1/D-2 dopamine receptors is also discussed. PMID- 2525256 TI - Phosphorylation-dependent activation of the adenovirus-inducible E2F transcription factor in a cell-free system. AB - Adenovirus infection induces a large increase in the DNA binding activity of a cellular transcription factor that is utilized by the viral E2 promoter and termed E2F. Using cell-free extracts, we have developed an assay for the in vitro activation of DNA binding activity of E2F. E2F activity is undetectable in HeLa extracts but upon incubation with a fraction from adenovirus-infected cells, there is an ATP-dependent increase in E2F DNA binding activity. This increase does not occur using an equivalent fraction from dl312 (E1A-)-infected cells. Incubation of E2F with phosphatase inactivates E2F binding activity. Incubation of the phosphatase-inactivated E2F with an infected cell fraction restores E2F activity as does incubation with a known protein kinase. In contrast, incubation with an extract from mock-infected cells does not restore activity. We conclude that the DNA binding activity of E2F is regulated by phosphorylation in an E1A dependent manner. PMID- 2525259 TI - Glucose administration augments in vivo uptake and phototoxicity of the tumor localizing fraction of hematoporphyrin derivative. AB - Rhabdomyosarcoma tumors in rats made hyperglycemic by multiple injections of glucose exhibited a transient decrease in pH and an increased ability to accumulate derivatives of hematoporphyrin (HPD). Photoradiation of tumors in glucose/HPD-treated animals produced a greater cell kill than in galactose/HPD treated controls. A therapeutic benefit of glucose administration in conjunction with HPD-phototherapy is suggested. PMID- 2525260 TI - Oxygen limitation of direct tumor cell kill during photodynamic treatment of a murine tumor model. AB - The relationship between levels of in vivo accumulated photosensitizer (Photofrin II), photodynamic cell inactivation upon in vitro or in vivo illumination, and changing tumor oxygenation was studied in the radiation-induced fibrosarcoma (RIF) mouse tumor model. In vivo porphyrin uptake by tumor cells was assessed by using 14C-labeled photosensitizer, and found to be linear with injected photosensitizer dose over a range of 10 to 100 mg/kg. Cellular photosensitivity upon exposure in vitro to 630 nm light also varied linearly with in vivo accumulated photosensitizer levels in the range of 25 to 100 mg/kg injected Photofrin II, but was reduced at 10 mg/kg. Insignificant increases in direct photodynamic cell inactivation were observed following in vivo light exposure (135 J/cm2, 630 nm) with increasing cellular porphyrin levels. These data were inconsistent with expected results based on in vitro studies. Assessment of vascular occlusion and hypoxic cell fractions following photodynamic tumor treatment showed the development of significant tumor hypoxia, particularly at 50 and 100 mg/kg of Photofrin II, following very brief light exposures (1 min, 4.5 J/cm2). The mean hyupoxic cell fractions of 25 to 30% in these tumors corresponded closely with the surviving cell fractions found after tumor treatment in vivo, indicating that these hypoxic cells had been protected from PDT damage. Inoculation of tumor cells, isolated from tumors after porphyrin exposure, into porphyrin-free hosts, followed by in vivo external light treatment, resulted in tumor control in the absence of vascular tumor bed effects at high photosensitizer doses only.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525261 TI - Mouse skin photosensitivity with dihaematoporphyrin ether (DHE) and aluminium sulphonated phthalocyanine (AlSPc): a comparative study. AB - Skin photosensitivity of sun exposed sites is the major side effect of dihaematoporphyrin ether (DHE) photodynamic therapy (PDT). Reports of severe oedema and erythema have generally been anecdotal. We have studied aluminium sulphonated phthalocyanine (AlSPc) as a potential photosensitiser for PDT. In this paper we report our work comparing the skin photosensitivity reactions of DHE and AlSPc. We have studied: (i) the time course of the skin reactions, (ii) the effect of increasing time from administration of photosensitiser to irradiation, (iii) drug-skin reaction dose response. Groups of Skh I female hairless albino mice were given an intravenous bolus dose of either 0.9% saline solution, AlSPc or DHE (Photofrin II). Drug doses ranged from 0.5 to 50 mg/kg. At times ranging from 1 h to 1 month animals were irradiated with a range of doses of solar simulated radiation (SSR). The skin reaction was observed over a 2 week period. DHE reactions were always more severe than those with AlSPc. Peak skin reaction was seen at 3 h for DHE and 6 h for AlSPc. DHE reactions were still visible 2 weeks after irradiation whereas the AlSPc reaction disappeared by 48 h. Irradiation evoked a reaction up to 2 months after administration of DHE but only up to 2 weeks with AlSPc. The mean SSR dose at which a skin reaction was seen decreased with increasing dose of both agents. The rate of decrease was slower with AlSPc than DHE. This study suggests that in PDT, AlSPc will cause much less skin photosensitivity than DHE. PMID- 2525262 TI - The time course of cutaneous porphyrin photosensitization in the murine ear. AB - This study was designed to investigate the time course of acute cutaneous photosensitivity following administration of Photofrin II using the murine ear swelling response (ESR) as an in vivo end-point. Ros:(ICR) mice were injected with 5 mg/kg Photofrin II and illuminated 7.5 h to 31 days later with 630-nm laser light; ESR was measured 24 h after illumination. There was a direct correlation between ESR and the concentration of [14C]Photofrin II in blood, while no relationship between ESR and the level of [14C]Photofrin II in the ear tissue of exsanguinated mice was evident. Photosensitivity in the mouse foot can be suppressed by preexposure to low doses of light via a photochemical destruction of tissue-bound sensitizer (Boyle and Potter, 1987, Photochem. Photobiol. 46, 997-1001). However, mouse ears pretreated with 84 J/cm2 of 630-nm light (28 J/cm2/day, given 2, 4 and 6 d after injection), a dose sufficient to reduce porphyrin fluorescence in ear tissue by about 75%, prior to the usual light dose (88.6 J/cm2, 630 nm, day 9 after injection) showed a mean ESR not significantly different (P less than 0.5) from that for ears which received only a single dose of 88.6 J/cm2 on day 9. It is concluded, for this animal model, that circulating porphyrin is the source of photoinduced ear-tissue edema and that photobleaching of tissue-bound sensitizer does not attenuate ear-tissue photosensitivity. PMID- 2525263 TI - Beta-endorphin concentrations in cerebrospinal fluid of monkeys are influenced by grooming relationships. AB - Social relationships are integral to the behaviour of many mammalian species. Primates are unusual in that their social relationships are extensive within groups, which often contain many reproductively active males and females. Several hypotheses have been forwarded to explain the ultimate causation of primate sociality. While attention has focused on grooming as a proximate factor influencing social relationships, the neural basis of such behaviour has not been investigated in monkeys. This report presents changes in the brain's opioid system contingent on grooming in monkeys. Opiates themselves have a feedback interaction with grooming behaviour, as revealed from the administration of opiate agonists and antagonists. Opiate receptor blockade increases the motivation to be groomed, while morphine administration decreases it. These data support the view that brain opioids play an important role in mediating social attachment and may provide the neural basis on which primate sociality has evolved. PMID- 2525264 TI - When prevention fails ... rehabilitate. PMID- 2525265 TI - Queensland Nursing Homes & Hostels Manual Handling Project. A joint project to reduce back injuries. PMID- 2525266 TI - [Spiegel's hernia: apropos of 7 cases]. AB - The authors present their experience with Spiegel's hernia and a series of seven cases, three of which debuted as intestinal occlusion. On four occasions the hernial content was appreciated, only one of which required resection. The diagnostic procedures most commonly used in this pathology are noted and it is concluded that sonography offers high resolution images and effectiveness in the differential diagnosis. In all the cases the hernia was located below the aponeurosis of the major oblique muscle. Herniorrhaphy was performed in every case, and there was no morbidity, mortality or recurrence of the hernia. PMID- 2525267 TI - [Sudden death due to angina pectoris]. PMID- 2525268 TI - [Contents and molecular forms of human atrial natriuretic peptide in right and left auricle in patients with heart disease]. AB - Contents and molecular forms of human atrial natriuretic peptide (hANP) in right and left auricle were analyzed by reverse phase high liquid chromatography (RP HPLC), coupled with radioimmunoassay for hANP. Analyses were done with auricles taken from 4 autopsied cases without heart disease, and 13 patients with heart disease. Both right and left auricular hANP contents in patients with heart disease were higher than those obtained at autopsy. In patients with mitral stenosis (MS) or mitral regurgitation (MR) who have left atrial pressure and/or volume overload, hANP contents in left auricle were higher than those in right auricle. In addition, three types of molecular forms of hANP, (gamma) type, (alpha, beta, gamma) type, (beta, gamma) type, were observed in both right and left atrium. In patients with MS or MR, (beta, gamma) type or (alpha, beta, gamma) type which have beta-hANP immunoreactivity were observed in 8 out of 9 in patients in left auricle, however, in 4 out of 9 patients in right auricle. Our results suggested that the difference of contents and molecular forms of hANP may reflect the pathophysiological role in heart diseases. PMID- 2525269 TI - [Role of adrenergic receptor system in canine left ventricular hypertrophy]. AB - Although sympathetic nervous system and catecholamines have been postulated to play an important role in the development of myocardial hypertrophy, the precise mechanism is still ill-defined. We then developed two experimental canine models; 12 dogs with surgical cardiac denervation by the method of Geis et al, inducing up-regulation of myocardial adrenergic receptors, and 12 dogs with chronic infusion of subhypertensive dose of norepinephrine (NE) at a rate of 0.04 mg/kg/day. After two months, both models induced myocardial hypertrophy, as indicated by significant increases in left ventricular (LV) wall thickness and cell diameter as compared with 14 sham-operated control dogs. Cardiac denervation remarkably depleted myocardial NE contents, while plasma NE remained unchanged. Both alpha-1 and beta receptors were unregulated, Bmax increasing by 90% and 50% respectively. Decrease in myocardial cyclic-AMP content was relatively small as compared with the marked reduction in myocardial NE, probably by the compensatory augmentation of beta receptor system activity. Chronic NE infusion also reduced myocardial NE content possibly due to stimulation of presynaptic alpha-2 receptor inhibiting NE synthesis and release. Number of alpha-1 and beta receptors also increased by 90% and 30% respectively, while myocardial cyclic-AMP content remained unchanged. These observations indicate that neither direct stimulation of NE on the myocardial cell nor increased in cyclic-AMP is the mechanism for cardiac hypertrophy in both models.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525271 TI - [Treatment of Paget's disease]. AB - The advent of compounds that oppose excessive bone resorption is a remarkable advance in the treatment of Paget's disease, the course of which can be controlled, in almost every case, by calcitonin and bisphosphonates. This treatment aims at limiting the hypertrophy and deformation of bones, thereby reducing the incidence of neurosensory and orthopaedic complications, principal causes of disablement. It follows that those forms of the disease that are characterized by strong biochemical activity and/or bone lesions resulting in neurosensory suffering of articular impairment of the lower limbs must be treated actively. In every case, vitamin D or calcium deficiencies likely to induce hyperparathyroidism must be corrected. Orthopaedic appliances on long bones or lower limb articulations are sometimes necessary. New drugs (e.g. bisphosphonates with greater activity) and different pharmaceutical preparations or modes of administration (e.g. short parenteral courses of bisphosphonates, calcitonin in nasal spray) might soon increase the possibilities of treatment and provide an even better control of Paget's disease of bone. PMID- 2525272 TI - Lack of a serologic response to an E1B protein of adenovirus 12 in coeliac disease. AB - The description of an amino acid sequence homology between the E1B-58-kDa protein of adenovirus 12 and gliadin has led to the suggestion that previous infection by this virus and subsequent exposure to gliadin could trigger the development of coeliac disease in susceptible individuals as a result of immunologic cross reactivity. We have sought to measure specific antibodies to the E1B-58-kDa protein in 23 coeliac patients and 10 normal subjects. The sera were analysed by radioimmunoprecipitation with metabolically labelled adenovirus-12-transformed rat cells (which express the E1B-58-kDa protein), followed by separation on polyacrylamide gels. None of the coeliac sera had evidence of antibodies to the E1B-58-kDa protein. These data suggest that coeliac patients show little evidence of humoral immunity to the specific adenovirus 12 E1B-58-kDa protein implicated in the aetiology of coeliac disease. PMID- 2525273 TI - NSAIDs: new approaches to limiting gastropathy. AB - An extensive literature search on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) induced gastropathy in rheumatic conditions has been carried out. A reduced incidence of gastropathy has been observed among newly developed NSAIDs such as etodolac and the non-acidic nabumetone. An alternative prophylactic therapy to avoid NSAID-induced gastroduodenal mucosal damage which has been successfully tested in several trials is co-medication with the prostaglandin analogue misoprostol. The cytoprotective agent sucralfate also appears to be effective. Recent observations of Campylobacter pylori infections in NSAID-induced gastropathy introduces the question as to whether simultaneous antibacterial medication should be routinely administered during NSAID therapy. At present the invasive technique of endoscopy is used to ascertain gastroduodenal mucosal damage. However, a new technique which merely requires blood sampling is being investigated. This involves measurement of serum levels of the precursor molecules for the gastric enzyme pepsin, pepsinogen I and II. In future this assay could constitute a non-invasive method for detecting gastroduodenal mucosal damage. PMID- 2525270 TI - Exercise and fitness for persons with disabilities. AB - Over the past decade greater attention has been focused on the role of exercise and fitness for persons with disabilities. Increased involvement in exercise programmes, competitive sports and fitness activities has led to further inquiry into the broader concepts of performance, prevention of further deterioration of a given disability, maintenance for activities of daily living, and overall well being. This paper reviews the literature on 3 categories of disabilities, mental retardation, mental illness and selected physical disabilities, in order to determine the role of exercise and fitness programmes in each. Despite problems in research design, sampling procedures, instrument validity, and delineation of fitness components, there is growing support for the premise that physical exercise has a role to play in breaking the debilitative cycle. Although the research indicates that physical activity can serve as a potential non pharmacological adjunct therapy for persons with physical disabilities, there is still a need for well-controlled studies to quantify the individualization of exercise programming. PMID- 2525274 TI - Inflammatory synovial T cells in different activity subgroups of patients with rheumatoid arthritis and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. AB - Mononuclear cells were eluted from synovial membranes of 39 patients with rheumatoid arthritis and 12 patients with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. A considerable cell loss, about 50% or more, was seen during the various isolation steps. The CD4/CD8 ratio just after enzyme treatment (stage I) was significantly higher than at later stages, i.e. after removal of adherent cells (stage II, p less than 0.05) and after Isopaque Ficoll gradient centrifugation (stage III, p less than 0.01). This indicates a selective loss of CD4+ cells during isolation. In addition, stages I and II had higher CD4/CD8 ratios than peripheral blood of normal controls (p less than 0.01 and p less than 0.03), but not significantly higher than in peripheral blood of patients (p greater than 0.05). The CD4/CD8 ratio in eluted synovial membrane cells did not differ between patients with high and patients with low disease activity (p greater than 0.05). No correlation was found between any of the CD4/CD8 ratios and individual disease activity variables. Furthermore, a laboratory activity index and a disease outcome index were determined for each patient and no correlation was found between these indices and the CD4/CD8 ratios. PMID- 2525275 TI - Genetic engineering of filamentous fungi. AB - Filamentous fungi are important in medicine, industry, agriculture, and basic biological research. For example, some fungal species are pathogenic to humans, whereas others produce beta-lactam antibiotics (penicillin and cephalosporin). Industrial strains produce large amounts of enzymes, such as glucoamylase and proteases, and low molecular weight compounds, such as citric acid. The largest and most economically important group of plant pathogens are fungi. Several fungal species have biological properties and genetic systems that make them ideally suited for basic biological research. Recently developed techniques for genetic engineering of filamentous fungi make it possible to alter their detrimental and beneficial activities in novel ways. PMID- 2525276 TI - [Hyperthermia in the treatment of prostatic diseases: preliminary results. Proceedings of the 34th meeting of Lombard Urologists. Milan, 19 November 1989]. AB - At the Division of Urology-Institute San Raffaele-Milan, 198 patients with prostatic diseases (164 cases of benign prostatic hypertrophy, 19 cases of chronic abacterial prostatitis, 14 cases of prostatic adenocarcinoma) were submitted to local prostatic hypertermia. The prostate was heated up to 42-43 +/- 0.5 degrees C depending on the specific disease. Hyperthermia was delivered in 5 10 sixty minute long outpatient sessions. Both subjective ad objective symptoms were markedly ameliorated in 70% of patients evaluated at the three month follow up date. The accurate evaluation from a clinical, ecographic, histological and ultrastructural standpoint confirmed the efficacy and safety of local prostatic hyperthermia. This new procedure can be considered as a valid therapy for strictly selected patients. PMID- 2525277 TI - Medicine in the industrial battle: early workers' compensation. AB - This article examines the changing role of medicine in the early workers' compensation system by using an approach derived in part from Marx's work. It looks at the increasing importance of medicine in mediating class conflict over transforming work-related injuries into money, meaning, and medical care under the new system. The concept of 'medico-legalization' is developed to help explain some of these changes. PMID- 2525278 TI - "Mechanical" obstruction of the superficial femoral artery with the coronary angioplasty introducer sheath. AB - Cardiac catheterization has become an important tool for diagnosing coronary artery disease, and percutaneous transluminal balloon angioplasty of the coronary arteries has likewise become an important method of treating coronary artery disease. With the increasing number of invasive procedures being done, more and more vascular complications are being documented. I have presented one case of acute arterial insufficiency managed nonoperatively. PMID- 2525279 TI - [Evaluation of economic effectiveness of the complex measures related to mass screening of the population in a rural region]. AB - Socioeconomic appraisal of efficacy of a complex of measures on overall dispensarization in a rural district is presented. A prognostic medicosocial potential of the capacity for work is recommended as an integral indicator. Cost analysis of socioeconomic effect achieved due to the complex programme realization comprises the volume of national income received by virtue of additional participation in the process of social production of those with preserved capacity for work; resources from social insurance funds saved due to the decline in temporary and permanent disability rates; budget funds of public health bodies saved due to the decrease in the number of patients in need of treatment. The study demonstrated that the total annual economic effect of the complex programme on overall dispensarization in the rural district was equal to 674100 roubles. PMID- 2525280 TI - [Moving toward general mass screening of the population of the Brest-Litovsk region]. PMID- 2525281 TI - [Activities of the organizational-methodologic council with regard to controlling the quality of the training of physicians]. AB - The goals, fundamental principles and experience of the organizational and methodological work are presented. The principle of working out a five-year plan of control tests of the work done by all the chairs of the Institute is set forth. Thus each chair must undergo an annual check-up but planned repeated check ups of one and the same chair are excluded. The technique of feedback of control tests are pointed out along with some difficulties and ways of their elimination. PMID- 2525282 TI - [Influenza B in hospitalized patients in Leningrad]. PMID- 2525283 TI - Disabled-worker beneficiaries and disabled SSI recipients: a profile of demographic and program characteristics. PMID- 2525284 TI - Eliminating the Medicare waiting period for Social Security disabled-worker beneficiaries. PMID- 2525286 TI - [Symptoms and findings in chronic low back pain. Significance of symptom localization and radiographic findings]. AB - The article presents a one-year material of 41 women and 59 men with chronic low back disorders. Patients who had undergone back surgery and patients with inflammatory disease, fibromyalgia and somatoform disorders were excluded. Median age was 39 years, and median time off work was 16 months. Neurological deficits were found in the lower extremities in 48%. Of the 48 patients with calf symptoms, 60% had neurological deficits. Of 22 patients with thigh symptoms, 45% had neurological deficits, and such deficits were found in 30% of the 30 patients with back pain only. Relevant roentgenographic findings were obtained in 84%; decreased disc height, osteoarthritic facet joints, end-plate fracture, narrow bony canal, disc bulge and disc prolapse. It is concluded that, in the evaluation of low-back disorders, survey x-ray examination is a valuable and necessary supplement to a detailed history and thorough clinical examination. PMID- 2525285 TI - [Treatment of unstable angina pectoris]. AB - We present the results of an acute revascularisation program for unstable angina. Of the 63 consecutive patients included in the program 61 had significant coronary artery disease. Coronary bypass grafting was performed in 39 and percutaneous transluminal angioplasty in 9. There were two perioperative myocardial infarctions and one death in hospital. 13 patients were found unsuitable for revascularisation. At follow-up (14-26 months) 60 patients were still alive (95%). In the revascularised group 30 patients (65%) were free of angina pectoris. Accordingly, in patients who do not respond to medical therapy, acute revascularisation may be performed with low operative mortality, low incidence of perioperative myocardial infarctions, and good long term results. PMID- 2525287 TI - Applications of ultraviolet light in the preparation of platelet concentrates. AB - Passenger lymphocytes in platelet concentrates (PCs) may induce the formation of lymphocytotoxic antibodies (LCTAbs) and subsequent refractoriness to platelet transfusions. Ultraviolet (UV) irradiation can prevent lymphocytes' acting as stimulator or responder cells in mixed-lymphocyte reactions (MLRs) and could theoretically prevent LCTAb formation in vivo. A system has been devised for the delivery of UV irradiation to PCs; platelet storage characteristics and MLRs were evaluated in UV-irradiated PCs harvested from healthy donors with the Haemonetics V50 and PCS cell separators. MLR and response to phytohemagglutinin stimulation were abolished by a dose of 3000 joules per m2 at a mean wavelength of 310 nm. Platelet aggregatory responses to adenosine diphosphate (ADP), ristocetin, collagen and epinephrine, hypotonic shock response, and pH showed no important differences when control PCs and PCs irradiated as above were compared during 5 days of storage in Fenwal PL-1240 packs. Lactate production during storage was significantly higher in UV-treated PCs (p less than 0.001), but values did not exceed 20 mmol per L. UV transmission at 310 nm in standard blood product containers, including the Fenwal PL-146, PL-1240, and PL-732, was low (less than 30%), but it was acceptable in the Delmed Cryostorage and DuPont SteriCell packs (greater than 50%). UV irradiation may provide a simple and inexpensive means of producing nonimmunogenic PCs. PMID- 2525288 TI - Characteristics and function of suppressor T lymphocytes in immunologically unresponsive rats following pretreatment with UV-B-irradiated donor leukocytes and peritransplant cyclosporine. AB - Lewis rats pretreated with UV-B-irradiated donor leukocytes (UV-DL) and peritransplant cyclosporine (CsA...CsA, 20 mg/kg on days 0, +1, and +2) accepted W/F heart allografts permanently. This study of donor-specific immunologic unresponsiveness and its cellular mechanisms shows that the induction phase of unresponsiveness is partially mediated by W3/25+ T cells, while its maintenance is dependent on the presence of 0 x 8+ T cells. In vivo adoptive transfer of either splenocytes, T lymphocytes (T cells), or W3/25+ T cells from ungrafted, UV DL-transfused rats into unmodified syngeneic Lewis rats that received test grafts 24 hr later led to significant prolongation of donor-specific graft survival. Adoptive transfer of 0 x 8+ cells did not influence donor-type (W/F) test graft rejection. Adoptive transfer of SpL, T cells and 0 x 8+ cells from UV-DL and CsA treated recipients of W/F heart allografts at 20 or 180 days after transplantation led to significant donor-specific graft prolongation in naive syngeneic hosts, while adoptive transfer of W3/25+ cells, in this group, did not affect test graft survival. However, the adoptive transfer of SpL or of T cell subsets did not influence third-party (ACI) graft survival. In-vitro mixed lymphocyte reaction between thoracic duct lymphocytes obtained at various intervals following grafting from UV-DL and CsA treated Lewis recipients of W/F heart allografts and donor-type SpL resulted in significantly reduced reactivity by 78%, 75%, 69% (P less than 0.001) and 43% (P less than 0.02) compared with controls when responder TDL were obtained at 20, 50, 100, and 180 days after transplantation, respectively. In coculture studies, the MLR response to donor SpL was specifically suppressed by 60%, 57%, 46%, and 50% (P less than 0.01) at 20, 50, 100, and 180 days after transplantation, respectively, compared with controls. These data indicate that the induction of specific unresponsiveness to heart allografts in this model is mediated, in part, initially by the appearance in the host of specific W3/25+ cells either induced or recalled by UV-DL transfusion, and that a stable state of immunologic unresponsiveness is subsequently dependent on the presence of 0 x 8+ suppressor cells. PMID- 2525289 TI - Prevention of the graft-versus-host reaction in newborn mice by antibodies to tumor necrosis factor-alpha. AB - The influence of antibodies to recombinant murine tumor necrosis factor-alpha (anti-rMuTNF-alpha) on the development of the graft-versus-host reaction in vivo was investigated. This was done by evaluating the degree of splenomegaly in newborn BDF1 (B6xDBA/2) mice 10-11 days after injection of autologous BDF1 (controls) or semiallogeneic B6 (test) spleen cells. Splenomegaly, as reflected by the spleen index, among test BDF1 mice was 3-4-fold greater than the SI of control BDF1 mice. However, the treatment of test BDF1 mice with multiple injections of rabbit anti-rMuTNF-alpha antiserum resulted in a significant reduction in the SIs. In additional experiments, hamster monoclonal antibodies to rMuTNF-alpha were also shown to be effective in preventing the GVHR in vivo. Neither normal rabbit serum nor normal hamster IgG affected the GVHR in test BDF1 mice. These results indicate that TNF-alpha plays an important role in the development of the GVHR in vivo and suggest that antibodies, or other antagonists, to TNF-alpha may have potential use for the management of organ or tissue transplants. PMID- 2525290 TI - Immune dysfunction associated with graft-versus-host reaction in mice transplanted across minor histocompatibility barriers. I. Depressed antigen specific antibody responses to bacteriophage phi chi 174. AB - The effect of the graft-versus-host reaction in response to minor histocompatibility antigens on the antibody response to a T-dependent antigen was studied in four strains of mice. Lethally irradiated mice were transplanted with bone marrow plus graded numbers of spleen cells from H-2-compatible donors. Recipients of syngeneic bone marrow transplants and recipients of allogeneic bone marrow depleted of T cells made normal antibody responses to bacteriophage phi chi 174 when immunized on day 28 (primary) and day 56 (secondary) after marrow transplantation. Recipients of allogeneic bone marrow plus spleen cells made only small amounts of specific antibody and failed to make IgG antibody after secondary immunization. The pattern of the depressed antibody response suggests that the primary mechanism of immune dysfunction in mice with the minor antigen GVHR is a lack of T helper cell function. PMID- 2525291 TI - Gamma irradiation of isolated rat islets pretransplantation produces indefinite allograft survival in cyclosporine-treated recipients. AB - In this study we have examined the use of low-dose gamma-irradiation for the reduction of islet immunogenicity in the strong allogeneic combination of WAG rat islets transplanted into diabetic AUG recipients. First, we determined that gamma irradiation reduced immunogenicity in vitro by use of a modified MLR with WAG islets as stimulators and AUG splenocytes as responders. We then determined the maximum dose of gamma-irradiation that could be used (250 rads) before islet function was affected. As 250 rads islet pretreatment alone was ineffective in prolonging allograft survival, we combined the pretreatment with a short course (days 0, 1, 2; 30 mg/kg) of cyclosporine. We found that CsA was only effective in significantly prolonging allograft survival when given subcutaneously in olive oil. The CsA treatment alone gave a significantly prolonged survival time for the islet allografts (median, 37 days vs. 6 days for controls), but when combined with the 250 rads islet pretreatment a synergistic effect was seen with 100% becoming long-term survivors (greater than 100 days). The long-term surviving AUG rats from both the CsA alone group and the CsA plus 250 rads pretreated islets group were challenged with WAG dendritic cells (DC). The islets from the 250 rads pretreated group were subsequently rejected (day 6) while the CsA alone group were not affected. The role of low dose gamma-irradiation when combined with CsA treatment of islet graft recipients in inducing specific unresponsiveness will be discussed. PMID- 2525292 TI - [The causes of the nonuniform thermostability of Mg-ATPase and of the contractility of muscle models]. AB - With longer periods of preliminary heat-treatment of actomyosin suspension the decrease in the rate of superprecipitation (SPP) is followed by that in the extent of SPP, and, finally, in the Mg-ATPase activity. A similar uncoupling of mechanical and enzymatic activities is observed when the ratio between the native and the inactivated myosin in reconstructed actomyosin varied. This uncoupling is supposed to result from the formation during heat-treatment of myosin bridges incapable of dissociating in the presence of Mg-ATP. The bridges affect largely the mechanical properties of actomyosin, and in a lesser degree, its enzymatic properties. PMID- 2525294 TI - [Prolonged skin reactions after myelography]. AB - Lumbar myelography was undertaken in a man aged 28 years. Six hours after the myelography, he developed a papular skin rash which became generalized during the subsequent 36 hours. During the subsequent 16 days, the skin rash remitted completely. The incident is interpreted as a non-allergic adverse reaction to intrathecal iohexol. PMID- 2525293 TI - [Double satellites do not increase the risk of chromosome 21 nondisjunction]. AB - The hypothesis concerning the increase of the risk of appearance of offsprings with trisomy 21 in parents having double satellite acrocentric chromosomes is checked. Chromosomes of 266 parents having offsprings with Down's disease were examined, including 73 donors of extrachromosome 21. The frequency of chromosomes with dNORs in the total and in the donor groups did not differ from that of the control group. From 42 donors of extrachromosome, who demonstrated a nondisjunction in the first meiotic division, double satellites were revealed only once. In addition, data on the frequency of Dp+ and Gp+ variants are presented and discussed. PMID- 2525295 TI - [Loratadine. A new, non-sedating antihistaminc agent]. PMID- 2525296 TI - [Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of the brachiocephalic arteries]. AB - The results of eight percutaneous transluminal angioplastic (PTA) interventions in seven patients on the brachiocephalic arteries are presented. The occlusions and stenoses were dilated up to the normal lumen. The subjective symptoms disappeared in all of the patients and, similarly, the pulse and blood pressure in the arm were normalized. No complications were registered. PMID- 2525297 TI - [Occupational skin diseases]. PMID- 2525298 TI - [Balloon dilatation and coronary vascular stent implantation]. AB - To avoid acute complications and restenosis after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty coronary stents were developed. For the first time in 2 patients with severe lesions of the left anterior descending coronary artery 3 Palmaz-Schatz stents were implanted after application and fixation by balloon inflation. The vessels showed larger diameters with smoother surface and smaller gradients compared to balloon angioplasty as related to a blockade of the elastic properties of the vessel and suggested fixation of intima or media dissection. The implantation of the coronary stents was without complications. The control after 24 hours showed an open vessel with unchanged diameter. The patients were without symptoms during control after 4 weeks. Based on this and previous work the implantation of coronary stents seems to open a new dimension for percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty because vessel occlusions are prevented and restenosis possibly reduced. The newly designed stents show elementary constructive alternatives to currently used types. PMID- 2525299 TI - [Humoral mechanisms in the pathogenesis of arterial hypertension with emphasis on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and natriuretic substances]. AB - The author reviews contemporary views on the pathogenetic participation of selected humoral factors (of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, natriuretic hormone and atrial natriuretic factor) in the development of arterial hypertension in humans. Hypertension may be due to absolute or relative excess of factors with a pressor and antinatriuretic action or to deficiency of depressor and natriuretic substances. In essential hypertension and the majority of other types of hypertension the position is more complicated. Humoral substances are there involved in a complex way in dynamic interaction with other genetic, nervous, cardiovascular and other mechanisms. Investigation of humoral substances has helped to elucidate the causes of endocrine-hypertension, to expand our knowledge on the multifactorial genesis of essential hypertension, to differentiate its subtypes, and it led also practical therapeutic outcome such as the use of inhibitors of the angiotensin I converting enzyme or spirolactone. PMID- 2525300 TI - [Riboflavin supply of the Kara-Kalpak ASSr population with pathologic changes of the esophageal mucosa]. AB - Riboflavin supply was studied in 164 adult inhabitants of the Kara-Kalpak ASSR where a high incidence of cancer of the esophagus and precancer changes of the esophageal mucosa were recorded. Endoscopy was used to investigate the morphological picture of the esophageal mucosa. A standard method for evaluation of the activation coefficient (AC) of erythrocytic glutathion-reductase (EC1.6.4.2) in the presence of FAD was used as a criterion of the body supply with riboflavin. Pronounced riboflavin deficiency (AC greater than or equal to 1.30) and B2 hypovitaminosis (AC = 1.20-1.29) were observed in 17 and 23% of the cases, respectively. Statistical analysis of the data obtained evidences that insufficient supply with riboflavin is recorded, on an average, 3.5-5.5 times more frequently in subjects with pronounced catarrhal esophagitis, combined with or without leukoplakia, than in the control group of subjects with out pronounced changes in the esophageal mucosa. No positive statistically significant association between low supply of the body with riboflavin and atrophic esophagitis has been established. PMID- 2525301 TI - [Increasing the effectiveness of the method of Staphylococcus phage-typing]. AB - Eight nutrient media used for St. aureus phage-typing were assessed in parallel experiments. 22 test strains of St. aureus with previously known bacteriophage formulas and 44 strains isolated from different sources during food poisonings were subjected to typing. Bacteriophages were employed in the test dose (TD) and in 10 TD. Marked relationship was established between the degree of lytic reactions of bacteriophages used in the TD and the type of solid nutrient media. The best results of phage-typing as regards the strength of lysis were obtained on agar for Brucella isolation (erythritol agar) with all bacteriophages applied in the TD. The results appeared similar to those obtained with Hottinger's medium. In order to unify the method of Staphylococcus phage-typing, it is suggested that dry erythritol agar manufactured by the Dagestan Research Institute for Nutrient Media should be used as a solid medium. In addition, two procedures for St. aureus cultivation before phage-typing are offered, raising the percentage of cultures lysed by bacteriophages. PMID- 2525302 TI - Low back pain. PMID- 2525303 TI - Patient evaluations of low back pain care from family physicians and chiropractors. AB - We compare health maintenance organization enrollees' evaluations of the care they received from family physicians and chiropractors for low back pain. Patients of chiropractors were three times as likely as patients of family physicians to report that they were very satisfied with the care they received for low back pain (66% versus 22%, respectively). Compared with patients of family physicians, patients of chiropractors were much more likely to have been satisfied with the amount of information they were given, to have perceived that their provider was concerned about them, and to have felt that their provider was comfortable and confident dealing with their problem. Although the more positive evaluations of chiropractors may be related to differences in the patient populations served by the two providers or to benefits of spinal manipulation, it is suggested that a potentially more potent force--the therapeutic effect of the patient and provider interaction itself--may explain the observed differences. PMID- 2525304 TI - [The diagnosis of esophageal stenosis in a patient with Down's syndrome]. PMID- 2525305 TI - [The Kyrle disease entity and its therapeutic modification by acitretin (etretin)]. AB - We report on a 50-year-old woman having suffered from atypically located Kyrle's disease for 2 years. Especially the palmoplantar areas were affected by keratotic erythematous papules showing the typical histologic picture of Kyrle's disease. Treatment with acitretin (initial dose 30 mg/day) resulted in almost complete remission after 6 months. A concomitant lichen nitidus remained unchanged. PMID- 2525306 TI - Intergenerational transfers: aging parents living with adult children and vice versa. AB - The family remains important for care of the elderly; less well understood is the significance of even aging parents for their offspring, which may be more so today than in the past and more so in the welfare states--with 'resourceful' old people--than in the less affluent societies. This study tries to verify this by an analysis of coresidence patterns between generations, with particular emphasis on the younger one. In particular, men with various handicaps may more often find refuge with their family of origin than do others, and more often today than they did in the not-so-distant past. PMID- 2525307 TI - [Long-term experiences with lyophilized soft dura (Lyodura S) as a connective tissue substitute in pediatric surgery]. AB - Between 1979 and 1985 plastic closures with lyophilised softened dura mater were performed in 45 children with the following indications: gastrochisis: 8; omphaloceles: 2; meningomyeloceles: 29; meningoceles: 3; diaphragmatic aplasia: 1; oesophageal atresia with tracheo-oesophageal fistula: 2. Infection as well as rejection of the implants were never observed. Mortality came up to 11%. Complications and causes of death are described. A follow-up was carried out postoperatively at semi-annual intervals. The scars showed good functional and cosmetic results. PMID- 2525309 TI - [A study of the ability of Bordetella pertussis toxin to induce the formation of B-suppressors]. AB - Mouse spleen cells not adhering to the plastic surface and B-cells isolated from them were treated with B. pertussis toxin in vitro, washed and injected into recipients (allogeneic, syngeneic, intact or lethally irradiated) whose immune response to sheep red blood cells was then evaluated by Jerne's method. Treatment with B. pertussis toxin was shown to induce the development of immunosuppressive activity in intact spleen cells and in B-cells, to abolish the activity of memory B-cells and to enhance the suppressor activity of autoimmune mice. Supernatants obtained after autoimmune mice. Supernatants obtained after the 18- to 24-hour cultivation of spleen cells, previously treated with B. pertussis toxin for 60 minutes, suppressed the reaction of blast transformation of spleen cells to Con A and lipopolysaccharide and induced the appearance of immunosuppressive activity in intact spleen cells. The suppressing effect of the cells studied in this investigation may be linked with the ability of B. pertussis cells to stimulate the synthesis of cAMP, prostaglandins E and/or suppressor factors. PMID- 2525308 TI - Biochemical parameters in various sections of bovine corpora lutea graviditatis during the course of pregnancy. AB - The enzyme activities of glutathione peroxidase (GPO) with cumenehydroperoxide (cumene-OOH) and H2O2 as substrates, glutathione-S-transferase (GSH-S-T) with 1 chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (CDNB) as substrate, phosphofructokinase (PFK) and succinate dehydrogenase (SuDH) were determined for months 1 through 9 of pregnancy in the basal and peripheral sections of the corpora lutea graviditatis of Holstein-Frisean cows. The concentration of reduced glutathione (GSH) was simultaneously measured in these tissue sections. Substantial topographical differences were apparent in the enzyme activities. GPO and GSH-S-T showed activity differences during the course of pregnancy. During the 2nd month of pregnancy, minimal values for the activity of cytoplasmic GPO were observed in the basal areas. The cytoplasmic GPO in the peripheral areas displayed a contrasting dynamic with maximal values during the 6th month. GSH-S-T activities in basal and peripheral tissues appeared similar. GPO activities with H2O2 as substrate, likewise, displayed similar courses of activity in both tissue localizations. SuDH was more active in the peripheral than in the basal area. The activity of PFK displayed just the reverse course. The concentration of GSH in the peripheral area was not higher than in basal area. PMID- 2525310 TI - Neurotensin modulates the binding characteristics of dopamine D2 receptors in rat striatal membranes also following treatment with toluene. AB - The effects of neurotensin in vitro (1-100 nM) on the binding characteristics of [3H]N-propylnorapomorphine ([3H]NPA) were analysed in striatal membrane preparations of the adult male rat. Subsequently, it was investigated whether the modulatory effects of 10 nM neurotensin on [3H]NPA binding were altered by treatment with toluene in vivo (80 p.p.m., 3 days, 6 h day-1) and in vitro (19 mumol ml-1). Displacement of [3H]NPA binding by raclopride (IC50 about 15 nM) and SCH 23390 (without effect) indicated that [3H]NPA labelled only D2 dopamine receptors in the present study. Neurotensin was found to reduce the affinity of D2 receptors with a maximum response at 10 nM. At this concentration the KD value was increased by 30-40% without any consistent changes in the number of binding sites. The modulatory effect of neurotensin remained intact also following toluene treatment in vivo and in vitro, although at a higher KD range, since toluene alone increased the KD value of [3H]NPA binding by 40-50%. Thus, the mechanisms mediating the effects of neurotensin and toluene on the D2 receptor are likely to be different. When neurotensin and toluene treatments were combined, the KD values of [3H]NPA binding were about twice as high as in non treated controls. These additive effects may lead to a severely decreased efficiency of dopamine D2-mediated neurotransmission in vivo. PMID- 2525311 TI - Renal interaction between sympathetic activity and ANP in rats with chronic ischaemic heart failure. AB - The diuretic and natriuretic effects of r-alpha-ANP (99-126) were investigated in rats with chronic ischaemic heart failure (IHF) produced by left coronary artery ligation. The plasma concentration of immunoreactive ANP (IrANP) was significantly higher, 91.8 +/- 16.0 pm in the IHF rats compared to 31.0 +/- 4.9 pm in sham-operated controls. In the control rats, ANP infusion (0.25-1.0 micrograms kg 1 mm 1) increased urine flow rate (V) and urinary sodium (UNa V) excretion. At the highest dose level, both V and UNa V were increased approximately fivefold. The diuresis and natriuresis seen in the control group after the infusion of ANP were blunted in the IHF rats. A bilateral surgical renal denervation in the IHF rats did not alter the renal dopamine levels, but induced a significant decrease in renal noradrenaline content, and almost completely restored the renal responsiveness to the ANP infusions. We conclude that renal denervation reversed the blunted renal excretory response to ANP in IHF rats. Thus, in experimental IHF, there seems to be a functional antagonism between efferent renal sympathetic nerve activity and ANP. PMID- 2525312 TI - Effects of growth hormone on skeletal muscle. II. Studies on regeneration and denervation in adult rats. AB - The effects of human recombinant growth hormone (rhGH) on regenerating skeletal muscle after ischaemic necrosis and on denervated skeletal muscle were studied in normal adult rats. One group of rats was treated with 4 IE rhGH daily by subcutaneous injections, while control rats were injected with saline. The treatment with rhGH resulted in increased levels of insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) in serum. Ischaemic necrosis was achieved in the extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscle by cutting the supplying vessels and nerve fascicles at the entrance into the muscle. The wet weight and DNA: protein ration in the regenerating muscle were determined 2 and 4 weeks after the operation. The weight of the regenerating muscles in the rats treated with rhGH during the period of study was larger than in the control rats, while the DNA:protein ratio did not differ significantly between the groups. Denervation of the EDL and soleus muscles followed by subsequent reinnervation was obtained by freezing the sciatic nerve with a forceps chilled in liquid nitrogen. Rats treated with rhGH during the period of denervation and reinnervation, i.e. during the 4 weeks after the freezing of the sciatic nerve, revealed increased weight of both the reinnervated and normal muscles compared to corresponding muscles of control rats. Denervation of the EDL and soleus muscles without subsequent reinnervation was achieved by cutting the sciatic nerve at the level of the thigh. Four weeks after denervation the muscles showed atrophy, mainly affecting type 2 fibres in the EDL muscle and both type 1 and type 2 fibres in the soleus muscle. PMID- 2525313 TI - Temporary lack of ANP response to intravenous saline loads in goat kids. PMID- 2525314 TI - Prostaglandins in inflammatory bone pathology: mechanism and therapeutic benefit of etodolac. AB - To investigate the role of PGE2 in the development of bone and joint pathology in rat adjuvant arthritis, hindlimb paws were evaluated by calcified tissue histologic techniques focusing on histochemical visualization of cartilage and bone lesions. Case studies of hindlimbs from normal, adjuvant arthritic, and etodolac-treated arthritic rats demonstrated the association of disease severity with inflammation, chondromalacia, replacement of adipose bone marrow with a fibroid marrow, osteoclastic bone resorption, synovial cysts, and pannus formation within the joints. Extensive periosteal intramembranous bone formation was temporally associated with joint destruction and medullary tissue pathology. In vivo data were correlated with in vitro effects of inflammatory mediators (IL 1, PGE2) on bone resorption. Etodolac blocked bone explant PGE2 accumulation at concentrations of 10(-7) M and higher, and inhibited bone resorption at concentrations of 10(-5) M and higher. The data indicate that in vitro and in vivo models of bone metabolism are well correlated regarding prostaglandin synthesis; that the inflammatory mediator PGE2 is largely responsible for the involvement of skeletal tissue in the adjuvant arthritis model; and that the effects of etodolac are specifically mediated by its ability to inhibit PGE2 accumulation in vivo. PMID- 2525315 TI - Meeting report. The biochemistry and pharmacology of interleukins-1 and -6. PMID- 2525316 TI - [Pain relief by high-dose medroxyprogesterone acetate in advanced prostatic cancer]. AB - The effect of high-dose medroxyprogesterone acetate was studied in 7 patients with advanced prostatic cancer. Results in 7 patients were no change (NC) in 5 (71%) and progressive disease (PD) in 2 patients (29%). However, pain relief was obtained in 6 of the 7 patients (86%). As side effects, 2 patients (29%) showed moon-face and 2 patients weight gain (29%). These results indicate that treatment of high-dose medroxyprogesterone acetate is useful for pain relief in patients with advanced prostatic cancer. PMID- 2525317 TI - Update on interventional neuroradiology. PMID- 2525318 TI - A symposium: A new treatment for angina pectoris and heart failure. October 17, 1987, San Francisco. Proceedings. PMID- 2525319 TI - Effects of nicorandil on coronary circulation and myocardial ischemia. AB - The effect of the new antianginal drug, nicorandil, was studied in several models of myocardial ischemia in anesthetized dogs. In animals subjected to an acute or chronic coronary artery occlusion, nicorandil produced increases in collateral perfusion when changes in aortic pressure were minimized. In a model of irreversible ischemia, nicorandil produced a marked (50%) decrease in myocardial infarct size. In several models of reversible ischemia-reperfusion injury, the "stunned myocardium," nicorandil was shown to enhance the recovery of systolic segment shortening after a brief period (15 to 30 minutes) of coronary occlusion. Other vasodilators such as nitroglycerin or nifedipine were not as efficacious as nicorandil. In a model of multiple (n = 3) coronary occlusion (5 minutes) with intermittent (30 minutes) reperfusion, nicorandil improved the recovery of systolic segment shortening during reperfusion and prevented the loss of adenosine triphosphate and tissue edema that occurred in untreated hearts. The beneficial effects of nicorandil on functional and metabolic recovery after recurrent ischemia was shown to be partially the result of an energy-sparing effect of nicorandil to reduce free fatty acid use during the ischemic period. Cyclooxygenase blockade with indomethacin did not block the beneficial effects of nicorandil in the stunned myocardium. These results suggest that nicorandil does not promote an increase of prostacyclin. Finally, nicorandil was found to inhibit superoxide anion production by human neutrophils stimulated by formyl-methionyl leucyl-phenylalanine plus cytochalasin B. These results suggest that part of the beneficial actions of nicorandil may occur during reperfusion and may be the result of a reduction in oxygen free radical production.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525320 TI - Nicorandil as a hybrid between nitrates and potassium channel activators. AB - Nicorandil, although structurally a nitrate, differs from classic nitrates in several respects. It preferentially dilates resistive vessels. Its effect on venous return in dogs is not unanimously a decrease but rather an increase. In high doses or concentrations it suppresses myocardial contraction and ventricular automaticity, nearly sparing sinoatrial nodal automaticity and atrioventricular nodal conduction. It shortens the effective refractory period of myocardium. These cardiac effects of nicorandil have been explained by its mechanism of action as a potassium (K) channel activator. However, what part of the vascular effects of nicorandil this mechanism is responsible for has not been determined. BRL 34915 and pinacidil, nonnitrate vasodilators with a K-channel activator action, have essentially the same cardiovascular profile as nicorandil in isolated, blood-perfused canine heart preparations. In anesthetized, open-chest dogs the 2 K-channel activators decreased systemic blood pressure and increased venous return and cardiac output without elevating heart rate, unless the cardiodepressant effect emerged. The increase in venous return or cardiac output survived elimination of baroceptor functions. These results taken together with previous results on nicorandil suggest the following: (1) The property of nicorandil as a resistive vessel dilator highly selective for vasculature originates in its mechanism of action as a K-channel activator. The nonunanimous effect of nicorandil on venous return is a result of the opposing actions as a capacitive (action as a nitrate) and a resistive vessel dilator. Nicorandil, with its hybrid nature, is advantageous over specific K-channel activators and classic nitrates in therapeutic implications. PMID- 2525321 TI - Nicorandil: animal pharmacology. AB - Nicorandil, a nicotinamide derivative, is a recently developed, orally active antianginal drug with a cardioprotective activity, and its pharmacologic properties differ from those of conventional antianginal drugs. Nicorandil has the capacity to increase myocardial oxygen supply without increasing oxygen demand by reduction in preload and afterload. In isolated blood-perfused canine heart preparations, when injected into the sinus node, the atrioventricular node or the anterior septal arteries, nicorandil at dose levels doubling blood flow through the respective arteries has virtually no effect on sinus rate, atrioventricular conduction time or contractile force of ventricular muscle. This may indicate that nicorandil possesses a selective effect on the coronary vasculature rather than on the myocardium. Furthermore, the vasospasmolytic activity of nicorandil has been evidenced in in vivo and in vitro experiments. The precise mechanism by which nicorandil develops coronary vasodilating and vasospasmolytic effects remains to be elucidated, but it may be partly inferred by an increase in the potassium conductance in the membrane, a relation with cyclic guanosine monophosphate formation, or inhibition of intracellular calcium ion mobilization in the cell of coronary vascular smooth muscle. Nicorandil possesses a nitrate moiety in its chemical structure. However, it is noted that nicorandil unlike nitrates does not develop tolerance or cross tolerance to other conventional nitrates in terms of blood-pressure lowering effects and coronary vasodilating effects. Thus, nicorandil is likely to have highly beneficial properties in the treatment of angina pectoris. PMID- 2525322 TI - Pharmacokinetics of nicorandil. AB - This report presents the findings of some studies on single intravenous and oral dosing performed in healthy volunteers to determine the pharmacokinetics and preliminary metabolism of nicorandil, a new vasodilator acting via increase of both membrane potassium conductance and intracellular cyclic guanosine monophosphate in vascular smooth muscle. Nicorandil (5 to 40 mg) is rapidly and completely absorbed after oral administration. Absolute bioavailability is 75 +/- 23% (mean +/- standard deviation) indicating that no significant hepatic first pass effect exists; peak plasma levels occur within 0.30 to 1.0 hours after dosing. Maximal concentration and area under the plasma concentration time curve of the parent drug are linearly related to a dose range of 5 to 40 mg, which covers the therapeutic regimen proposed for the treatment of patients with angina pectoris. The apparent distribution volume is about 1.4 liters/kg and the plasma concentrations decline according to 2 different processes: (1) a rapid elimination phase (apparent t1/2 beta congruent to 1 hour) that involves about 96% of the dose found in plasma, and a slower phase between the eighth and twenty fourth hour that could be the consequence of the vascular affinity of the compound. Nicorandil is weakly bound to human plasma proteins (free fraction greater than 75%) and its mean residence time is close to 1.25 hour. Both in animals and in humans, preliminary metabolic studies show that the main biotransformation pathways are denitration and then introduction into the nicotinamide metabolism. However, unchanged nicorandil and denitrated metabolite excreted into the urine represent only about 1 and 4% of the dose, respectively.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525323 TI - Acute hemodynamic effects of single-dose nicorandil in coronary artery disease. AB - Fifteen patients undergoing routine cardiac catheterization for investigation of chest pain were given a single dose of 40 mg of nicorandil either sublingually (8 patients) or orally (7 patients). Fourteen patients had angina (11 effort, 3 atypical) and 1 had palpitations but all had normal left ventricular (LV) function (mean LV end-diastolic pressure 7.4 mm Hg). Hemodynamic evaluations and plasma drug concentrations were performed at baseline and 5, 15, 30, 45 and 60 minutes after dosing. In addition, venous compliance was determined at baseline, 15 and 45 minutes using forearm venous occlusion plethysmography. Significant (p less than 0.05) central and peripheral hemodynamic changes occurred within 15 minutes. A reduction in preload was apparent from a decrease in LV end-diastolic pressure (from 7.4 +/- 1.7 to -2.6 +/- 1.5 mm Hg [p less than 0.05]) and a simultaneous decrease in mean pulmonary artery pressure (from 10.8 +/- 0.7 to 5.1 +/- 0.6 mm Hg [p less than 0.05]) at 60 minutes after dosing. This reduction in preload may reflect the venous vasodilatory activity of the drug as indicated by significant (p less than 0.05) increases in venous capacitance at 15 and 45 minutes. Total peripheral resistance decreased to a maximum of 19% (p less than 0.05) at 30 minutes and then began to return toward baseline. This effect in reducing afterload led to a substantial decrease (p less than 0.05) in systolic and diastolic aortic blood pressures, which was maximal at 45 minutes (34 and 21%, respectively). Transient increases in heart rate (p less than 0.05) and cardiac contractility indexes (p less than 0.05) were also observed.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525324 TI - Effects of nicorandil on arterial and venous vessels of the forearm in systemic hypertension. AB - The effects of a single oral dose of 20 mg of nicorandil were evaluated in 12 untreated patients with mild to moderate essential hypertension. Serial measurements of arterial pressures were obtained by means of an automatic device (Dynamap) up to 120 minutes after drug administration. Forearm hemodynamics were determined with a pulsed Doppler velocimeter, or strain gauge mecanography and plethysmography enabling measurement of the diameter, velocity and flow of the brachial artery as well as the arterial pulse wave velocity and forearm venous tone. In addition, local vascular resistance, compliance and impedance were deduced. Nicorandil administration produced a significant decrease in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, from 18 minutes after dosing which lasted up to the end of the study (i.e., 120 minutes after drug administration) (p less than 0.01). This decrease in blood pressure was not associated with reflex tachycardia. The brachial artery diameter increased significantly (p less than 0.01) with no change in brachial artery blood flow. A decrease in brachial-radial pulse wave velocity and arterial impedance (p less than 0.01) and an increase in arterial compliance were observed. Thus, this study demonstrated an antihypertensive activity of a single oral administration of nicorandil without baroreflex activation. This decrease in blood pressure was associated with a dilation of peripheral large arteries leading to an increase in arterial compliance. Thus, clinical testing to evaluate the antianginal activity of nicorandil, especially in hypertensive patients with coronary heart disease, should be encouraged. PMID- 2525325 TI - Hemodynamic action of nicorandil in chronic congestive heart failure. AB - Nicorandil is a new compound that has shown potent vasodilator activities on venous and arterial beds in experimental pharmacology. This study was designed to evaluate the magnitude and the time course of hemodynamic effects of different doses of nicorandil in congestive heart failure. Eleven patients with severe congestive heart failure (New York Heart Association class III or IV), with a cardiac index less than 3 liters/min/m2 and a pulmonary wedge pressure greater than 15 mm Hg were enrolled in the study. Three patients had ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy and 8 had idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy. Hemodynamic assessments were performed by right-sided cardiac catheterization (Swan-Ganz catheter) with cardiac output determination (thermodilution) at baseline and from 30 minutes to 12 hours after single oral administration of nicorandil; 3 patients were given 40 mg, 6 patients 60 mg, and 2 patients 80 mg. Maximal hemodynamic changes were observed 30 minutes after dosing and remained statistically significant at 3 hours. Thirty minutes after drug administration, pulmonary wedge pressure decreased 34 +/- 6%, cardiac index increased by 55 +/- 13% and diastolic and mean arterial pressures decreased by 15 +/- 3% and 9 +/- 2%, respectively, from baseline values. The decrease in systolic blood pressure was slight (5 +/- 2%) and not statistically significant. Calculated systemic vascular resistances decreased by 36 +/- 6% and heart rate did not significantly change. Nicorandil was well tolerated. Thus, the results of this first study of nicorandil in congestive heart failure demonstrated the unloading action of this compound on the failing heart, leading to an improvement in cardiac function; further investigation of nicorandil in this therapeutic area is needed. PMID- 2525326 TI - Effects of nicorandil on left ventricular hemodynamics and volume at rest and during exercise-induced angina pectoris. AB - The hemodynamic effects of nicorandil (20 mg) were compared with placebo in a double-blind study of 20 patients with angiographically proved coronary artery disease at rest before and 7, 15, 30 and 60 minutes after oral dosing. The impact of the drug on left ventricular (LV) hemodynamics and volume during exercise induced angina was determined by repeating exercise 60 minutes after drug administration, at the same work load that reliably induced angina during control predrug exercise. At rest, nicorandil reduced all components of systemic arterial pressure without change in cardiac or stroke volume indexes or heart rate. Pulmonary artery occluded pressure was reduced without change in LV ejection fraction or systemic vascular resistance index. Effects were evident at 7 minutes and peaked at 30 minutes with attenuation at 60 minutes. Compared with control supine bicycle exercise, the drug (at 60 minutes) reduced mean systemic arterial pressure and LV filling pressure without change in cardiac stroke volume indexes and heart rate. There was a smaller increase in LV ejection fraction. These data suggested greatest impact on LV function during exercise when substantial decreases in filling pressure occurred at maintained cardiac pumping indexes. PMID- 2525327 TI - Effects of intravenous administration of nicorandil on cardiovascular hemodynamics and left ventricular function. AB - The effects of the intravenous administration of the antianginal drug, nicorandil, 50 micrograms/kg administered over 2 minutes, were investigated during pacing-induced ischemia in 8 patients with coronary artery disease. Hemodynamic parameters were measured and single-plane left ventriculograms were obtained in control and postpacing periods both before and after pretreatment with nicorandil. Regional wall motion of the left ventricle was assessed by measuring shortening of the radial axes originating from the center of gravity of the end-diastolic silhouette. Heart rate, left ventricular (LV) systolic pressure and end-diastolic volume index did not change in the immediate postpacing period with or without medication. LV end-diastolic pressure decreased with nicorandil, from 22.0 +/- 3.4 to 17.0 +/- 2.3 mm Hg (mean +/- standard error of the mean) (p less than 0.05), and LV systolic volume index, from 39.6 +/- 8.0 to 30.4 +/- 6.8 ml/m2 (p less than 0.05). Ejection fraction increased from 55.2 +/- 5.0 to 64.3 +/- 3.8% (p less than 0.05). Stroke index and cardiac index (calculated from heart rate and stroke index) did not change significantly. Rapid right ventricular pacing increased the extent and degree of dyskinesia of the left ventricle, but premedication with nicorandil improved the wall motion. Thus, nicorandil has salutary effects on ventricular contractile and hemodynamic responses to transient ischemia induced by pacing stress. PMID- 2525328 TI - A controlled single-dose study of the efficacy, dose response and duration of action of nicorandil in angina pectoris. AB - Nicorandil is a vasodilator that acts on the venous and arterial beds of the systemic circulation. It reduces both cardiac preload and afterload, as well as improving coronary blood flow. The present study assessed the efficacy, tolerability, duration of action and optimal single dose of nicorandil in patients with stable angina pectoris. Treadmill exercise tests were undertaken by 8 patients at 2 and 6 hours after single oral doses of 20, 40, and 60 mg of nicorandil, and placebo. Doses were administered at weekly intervals in this double-blind, cross-over study. The duration of exercise to onset of angina was increased by 58, 96 and 125 seconds over baseline values (p less than 0.01) with the 20-, 40- and 60-mg doses of nicorandil, respectively. Significant improvement in exercise capacity compared with the effects of placebo was maintained at 6 hours after administration. The antianginal activity was accompanied by a marked reduction in blood pressure both at rest and during exercise, which resulted in severe dizziness and fainting in 2 of 6 patients after the 60-mg dose. However, significant reflex tachycardia occurred only at 2 hours after the 60-mg dose. Plasma concentrations of nicorandil correlated with percent reductions in blood pressure at 2 hours after administration (p less than 0.001) and with increasing total exercise work load (p less than 0.01). The incidence of adverse events appeared to be dose related. Headache and dizziness accounted for most of the reported events. The 20-mg single dose of nicorandil was considered to provide the best combination of antianginal activity and tolerability in this study. PMID- 2525329 TI - Exercise capacity after single and twice-daily doses of nicorandil in chronic stable angina pectoris. AB - In a double-blind parallel group study, 46 patients with chronic stable angina were randomized, after a 2-week placebo washout period, to 1 of 3 treatment groups for an additional 2 weeks. Groups 1 and 2 received nicorandil (5 mg, n = 5; 10 mg, n = 10) twice daily, respectively, increasing to 10 and 20 mg (n = 20) twice daily after 1 week of treatment; group 3 continued to receive placebo. A symptom-limited Bruce protocol exercise test was performed before and 2 hours after the initial dose and, after 2 weeks of treatment, 2 and 12 hours after administration. The following parameters were measured: resting, peak exercise and recovery blood pressure and heart rate, exercise duration, time to onset of angina and time to 1 mm of ST-segment depression. After initial dosing, there were significant increases in exercise duration (16%--n = 5, n = 10 vs -2% [placebo]) and time to onset of angina (20%, n = 5; 26%, n = 10 vs 5% [placebo]) (p less than 0.05). Time to onset of 1 mm of ST-segment depression increased in the nicorandil-treated groups compared with that in the placebo group (27%, n = 5; 25%, n = 10 vs 8% [placebo]). Calculated total exercise work increased in both nicorandil groups compared with exercise work in the placebo group (30%, n = 5; 19%, n = 10 vs 3% [placebo]). A decrease in resting systolic blood pressure (12%) in the 10-mg group was the only significant alteration in the hemodynamic parameters.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525330 TI - Comparison of antianginal activity of nicorandil, propranolol and diltiazem with reference to the antianginal mechanism. AB - Nicorandil was compared with placebo, propranolol and low and high doses of diltiazem therapy in 12 patients with chronic stable angina pectoris to elucidate its antianginal mechanism. A computer-assisted treadmill exercise test was performed after administration of either placebo, 30 mg of nicorandil, 40 mg of propranolol, or low-dose 60 and high-dose 120 mg of diltiazem. Exercise duration and time to the onset of ischemia were significantly increased after each drug administration and there was no significant difference in the percent increase in exercise duration between nicorandil (44 +/- 7%), propranolol (47 +/- 11%) and high-dose diltiazem (39 +/- 5%) compared with placebo. Nicorandil increased exercise duration in patients with 1-vessel disease more effectively (7.5 +/- 0.7 minutes, p less than 0.05) than either propranolol or low-dose diltiazem (6.7 +/- 0.7, 6.1 +/- 0.9 minutes, respectively). The decrease in blood pressure obtained with nicorandil was approximately the same as that with diltiazem. Nicorandil increased exercise duration associated with higher peak double product compared with low-dose diltiazem. In contrast, high-dose diltiazem increased exercise duration at the same double product as low-dose diltiazem. Propranolol increased exercise duration at a lower level of peak double product. Because our previous study demonstrated that low-dose diltiazem yielded a plasma concentration high enough to reduce coronary tone, it appears unlikely that nicorandil will reduce coronary tone further and subsequently increased coronary reserve. Therefore, left ventricular preload reduction may be the mechanism responsible for higher values of double product obtained with nicorandil.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525332 TI - Coronary vasodilatory action after nicorandil: a quantitative angiographic study. AB - Vasodilatory effects of nicorandil on major coronary arteries were investigated in 22 patients undergoing cardiac catheterization. Nicorandil, 20 mg, was administered sublingually to 11 consecutive patients and 40 mg to 11 others. Systemic blood pressure decreased significantly without affecting the heart rate. A total of 103 selected coronary artery segments, including 17 stenotic segments, were analyzed quantitatively using a computer-assisted coronary angiographic analysis system. After administration of 20 or 40 mg of nicorandil, a significant increase of the mean diameter was observed in the proximal (+9% and +7%), midportion (+10% and +11%) and distal (+15% and +13%) parts of the left anterior descending coronary artery. Corresponding values for the proximal (+13% and +10%) and distal (+10% and +15%) segments of the circumflex artery were observed. An increase in the obstruction diameter was also observed in all but 3 of the analyzed stenotic segments. The results demonstrate that nicorandil, in the route and doses used, causes significant vasodilatation in the normal epicardial coronary segments as well as in most of the stenotic segments. PMID- 2525331 TI - Effect of nicorandil on coronary spasm. AB - In patients in whom dynamic coronary obstruction plays a predominant role in the pathogenesis of angina pectoris, dilatation of large coronary arteries and relief of coronary spasm account for the main mechanism of action of antianginal drugs. In this study, the acute vasodilating effects of nicorandil, a newly developed antianginal drug, were assessed in 10 patients who had spontaneous and ergonovine evoked coronary spasms. The prompt, complete relief of both spontaneous and evoked coronary spasms was obtained in all of 10 patients with nicorandil. The coronary spasmolytic effect of nicorandil in the present series is thus considered to be beneficial to the treatment of coronary spasm. PMID- 2525333 TI - Heparin cofactor II in adults and infants with thrombosis and DIC. AB - Heparin cofactor II (HC II) was measured by a chromogenic activity assay in normal preterm infants (gestational age, 28-36 weeks; n = 17; 29% +/- 11.5 [mean +/- 1 SD], range 11-51), normal full-term infants (n = 18; 49% +/- 6.6 [mean +/- 1 SD], range 36-58), and normal adults (n = 38; 101% +/- 14 [mean +/- 1 SD], range 73-130). Normal children attained adult levels at approximately 5 to 7 months of age. The lower values in preterm and term infants most likely reflect immature liver function. Neither adults and children with a history of thrombosis with prior negative evaluation (n = 74), patients with documented protein C and protein S deficiency (n = 4), nor sick infants without evidence of consumptive coagulopathy (n = 15) had significantly lower levels of HC II activity. Infants with disseminated intravascular coagulation (n = 2) had strikingly lower levels of HC II activity. PMID- 2525334 TI - Protein S and C antigen levels in proteinuric patients: dependence on type of glomerular pathology. AB - The cause of the thrombotic tendency in nephrotic patients is unknown. Recent reports of thrombotic complications in patients with deficiencies of protein C or protein S (natural inhibitors of coagulation) have raised the possibility that decreased levels of these proteins may play a role in the hypercoagulable state of nephrotic patients. We measured the levels of protein C, total protein S, and free protein S antigens in 42 patients (21 nephrotic and 21 non-nephrotic) with one of four types of glomerular pathology: diabetic nephropathy (DM), focal glomerular sclerosis (FGS), membranous glomerulonephritis (MGN), and chronic renal failure due to hypertension (CRF). Protein C and total protein S antigen levels were significantly higher in FGS and MGN than they were in DM or CRF. Free protein S levels were lower in DM than they were in MGN. Protein C, total protein S, and free protein S levels did not significantly correlate with either serum albumin or degree of proteinuria. The mean levels of the three proteins did not differ between nephrotic and non-nephrotic patients. Free protein S and protein C were, however, significantly correlated (P less than .005 and P less than .002, respectively) with the type of glomerular pathology, independent of differences in age, sex, serum albumin, or degree of proteinuria. These data suggest that abnormalities of free protein S and protein C are related to the nature of the underlying renal disease, rather than to the degree of proteinuria. PMID- 2525335 TI - Current concepts in the management of renovascular hypertension and ischemic renal failure. PMID- 2525336 TI - Use of the Nd:YAG laser for the treatment of endometriosis. AB - Thirty-eight patients had laparoscopic treatment of endometriosis by the use of the Nd:YAG laser, combined with a fiber-optic cable equipped with sapphire contact tips. In this preliminary investigative study patients in all four revised American Fertility Society classifications were treated for both gynecologic disability and infertility. The analysis of the parameters studied for gynecologic disability indicated significant clinical improvement. The 18 patients with associated infertility had a conception rate of 67% for all stages of infertility. The study shows that the Nd:YAG laser used laparoscopically with the sapphire contact tip is safe and that its efficacy compares with that of other conservative surgical modalities. PMID- 2525338 TI - Ectopic tubal pregnancy treated by operative laparoscopy. AB - Between July 1986 and May 1988, all 23 patients with ectopic tubal pregnancies of 5 to 10 1/2 weeks' gestation and with serum beta-human chorionic gonadotropin levels between 51 and 92,610 mIU/ml (first international reference preparation) were treated by operative laparoscopy. Twenty-two (96%) of the ectopic pregnancies were unruptured or leaking and one (4%) was ruptured. Fifteen patients (65%) were treated with electrosurgical linear salpingotomy, and three of these patients (20%) later needed subsequent operative procedures. Six patients (26%) were treated with laparoscopic partial or total salpingectomy, and two patients were treated with either fimbrial expression of the pregnancy or completion of a partial abortion. Twenty patients (87%) spent less than 24 hours in the hospital for successful treatment of the ectopic pregnancy. It is concluded that operative laparoscopy should be considered an alternative to laparotomy or minilaparotomy for the treatment of ectopic pregnancy. PMID- 2525337 TI - Metabolic changes during medical treatment of endometriosis: nafarelin acetate versus danazol. AB - In this double-blind study of changes in plasma lipid and lipoprotein concentrations during 6-month medical treatment of endometriosis, 53 patients were randomly assigned to one of four treatment schedules: danazol, 800 mg/day (n = 10); danazol, 600 mg/day (n = 8); intranasal nafarelin acetate, 800 micrograms/day (n = 10); or intranasal nafarelin acetate, 400 micrograms/day (n = 25). Plasma levels of triglycerides, cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein, very low-density lipoprotein, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol fractions were obtained before, during, and 1 month after treatment. High-density lipoprotein2 and high-density lipoprotein3 cholesterol concentrations were measured in selected patients. Body weight was also followed. The drugs were equally effective in achieving symptomatic relief and laparoscopically demonstrated resolution of endometriosis but differed significantly in their effects on lipid concentrations. Nafarelin acetate had no adverse effects on serum lipoprotein concentrations, whereas danazol significantly decreased high density lipoprotein cholesterol (p less than 0.01), as well as the high-density lipoprotein2 subfraction (p less than 0.05), and increased low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (p less than 0.01). Danazol significantly increased body weight (p less than 0.01), whereas nafarelin did not. PMID- 2525340 TI - Perinatal diagnosis of congenital defects of anterior abdominal wall. PMID- 2525339 TI - Prenatal detection of Down syndrome. PMID- 2525341 TI - Multichannel extracochlear implant. AB - The transcutaneous eight-channel extracochlear implant has undergone continuous revision to simplify the surgical technique, to minimize patient morbidity, and to improve performance. The extracochlear electrode array has been miniaturized so that it can be inserted through the facial recess without disturbing the external auditory canal, tympanic membrane, or malleus. The use of the remote antenna placed around the external auditory canal has greatly increased battery life and patient comfort. With its simplified incisions, the surgical procedure can be performed as out-patient surgery. Preoperative cochlear nerve testing and use of evoked response cochlear nerve testing allow preadjustment of the speech processor. Current features and performance of the implant are discussed. PMID- 2525342 TI - Effects of intracellular free Ca and rate of Ca influx on the Ca pump. AB - The activity of the Ca pump of human red blood cells was studied in resealed ghosts as a function of intracellular free Ca (fCai). Resealed ghosts were made by the agarose column method to contain, in addition to other constituents, less than 0.1 microM fCai, 100 microM arsenazo III, and either 1 mM ATP plus an ATP regenerating system (active ghosts) or no added ATP and no regenerating system (passive ghosts). The rate of Ca influx into these ghosts was manipulated by suspending them in solutions containing various combinations of free Ca (1-30 microM) and the Ca ionophore A23187 (0.1-0.7 microM). Entering Ca increased the fCai and stimulated the pump in active ghosts. In passive ghosts, all the Ca movement could be described by a single rate constant. The activity of the Ca pump was calculated from the rate of net Ca uptake in the active ghosts, using the rate constant for passive Ca movement as determined in the passive ghosts. fCai and the rates of Ca transport in both active and passive ghosts were calculated from the absorbance of entrapped arsenazo III. In general, increasing fCai from 1 to 10 microM activated the pump. Higher fCai caused an inhibition compared with peak activity. The maximum rate of pumping was 80 microM/min. The major new finding is that the rate of active transport at a given fCai appeared to vary with the rate of fCai accumulation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525343 TI - Glucose uptake and flux through phosphofructokinase in wounded rat skeletal muscle. AB - Skeletal muscle injured with lambda-carrageenan has increased aerobic glycolysis. To assess the regulation of this process, the tissue concentrations of glycolytic intermediates, the flux through phosphofructokinase (PFK), and the intracellular concentrations of PFK effectors were examined in wounded rat skeletal muscle and in macrophages, the predominant inflammatory cell in the early stages of this wound model. Autoradiography demonstrated increased 2-deoxy-D-glucose uptake in wounded tissue compared with nonwounded muscle. 2-Deoxy-D-glucose was localized to the cellular infiltrate. The glycolytic intermediate concentrations demonstrated a facilitation of PFK in macrophages and wounded tissue as compared with nonwounded muscle. Wounded tissue had twice the flux through PFK compared with nonwounded muscle (10.0 +/- 0.6 wounded vs. 4.9 +/- 0.4 mumol.h-1.g-1 nonwounded). Macrophages had the highest flux through PFK (63.7 +/- 5.7 mumol.h 1.g-1) and when coincubated with muscle, the combined flux through PFK was equal to that of wounded muscle. The increase in glycolysis associated with wounded tissue may be explained by increased glucose uptake and increased flux through PFK by the inflammatory cells present in wounded tissue. PMID- 2525344 TI - Role of renal nerves in control of sodium excretion in chronic congestive heart failure. AB - The aim of this study was to examine the contribution of the renal nerves to the sodium retention in chronic congestive heart failure produced by rapid ventricular pacing. In 10 female dogs the left kidney was denervated and the urinary bladder was split to allow separate 24-h urine collection from an innervated and a denervated kidney in the same dog. The dogs were placed on an 80 meq/day sodium intake and permitted to recover for at least 2 wk. Control measurements were made for 5 days followed by ventricular pacing at 270-300 beats/min for 6 days. Cardiac output (CO), measured with an electromagnetic flow probe around the ascending aorta, fell from a control of 2.4 +/- 0.3 to 1.4 +/- 0.2 l/min (6 day average) during pacing while mean arterial pressure (MAP) fell from 91 +/- 4 to 71 +/- 3 mmHg. In six dogs, sodium excretion fell to an average of less than 2 meq/day (80 meq/day intake) during the 6-day pacing period in both the innervated and denervated kidneys. In four dogs, sodium excretion returned back toward control on days 3-6 of pacing despite sustained reductions in CO and MAP. However, there were no differences in renal hemodynamics or electrolyte excretion between innervated and denervated kidneys in either the compensated or decompensated dogs. These results suggest that other control mechanisms, besides the renal nerves, are primarily responsible for the sodium retention in this model of chronic congestive heart failure. PMID- 2525345 TI - Characterization of glomerular thromboxane receptor sites in the rat. AB - The aim of this study was to identify and characterize thromboxane (Tx) receptor sites in renal glomeruli. Binding studies were performed on freshly isolated glomeruli using the stable TxA2 receptor antagonist, [3H]SQ 29548. Specific binding was saturable, reversible, and varied with glomerular protein. Scatchard plots revealed a single class of high-affinity receptor sites (Kd = 14.3 +/- 2.4 nM, Bmax = 361 +/- 22 fmol/mg; n = 5). Specific binding was inhibited by Tx agonists (U-46619 and U-44069) and antagonist (SQ 29548) and was highly specific for Tx, since prostaglandin (PG)E2 and PGF2 alpha were 1,000-fold less potent in inhibiting binding. In vivo, U-46619 (1.75 micrograms.kg-1.min-1) was without effect on mean arterial pressure, but reduced renal blood flow by 71% (P less than 0.01) and glomerular filtration rate by 67% (P less than 0.01) and increased filtration fraction by 24% (P less than 0.05). SQ 29548 (10 micrograms.kg-1.min 1) completely blocked the renal effects of U-46619. These studies demonstrate the presence of specific receptor sites for Tx on renal glomeruli that are linked to modulation of renal hemodynamics. PMID- 2525346 TI - Effect of manipulations of Ca2+ environment on atrial natriuretic factor release. AB - The effects of Ca2+ on the kinetics of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) release [measured as immunoreactive cardionatrin (IRC)] were studied on an in vitro, spontaneously beating rat atrial preparation. It was found that ethylene glycolbis(beta-aminoethyl ether)-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid (EGTA) and Ca2+-free media induced a significant increase in the rate of basal IRC release. Reintroduction of Ca2+ reversed the augmented basal IRC release induced by EGTA and restored mechanical activity. It was also found that the stretch-induced IRC release was independent of extracellular Ca2+ and took place even in the presence of EGTA. The presence of absence of Ca2+ had no apparent effect on ANF processing. In all instances, cardionatrin I (ANF 99-126) was found to be the most abundant peptide released. Morphologically, no obvious differences were observed during either basal or stretch-induced IRC release. These results suggest that, unlike most other endocrine secretory systems, a reduction of cytosolic Ca2+ stimulates basal IRC release. These findings suggest an adaptation of atrial cardiocytes to accomplish their dual role as secretory and contractile cells. PMID- 2525347 TI - Hormonal responses to gradual changes in dietary sodium intake in humans. AB - The effects of gradual (50 mmol/day) increases in dietary sodium intake from 10 to 350 mmol/day on plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), aldosterone, and plasma renin activity (PRA) were studied in six normal subjects. With the increases in sodium intake there was a progressive increase in urinary sodium from 12.2 +/- 4.4 to 314.8 +/- 31.4 mmol/24 h; plasma ANP increased gradually from 9.9 +/- 1.1 to 23.3 +/- 2.2 pg/ml, with the increases being closely associated with the changes in cumulative sodium balance. Plasma aldosterone decreased significantly from 2,519.7 +/- 147.4 pmol/l on the 10 mmol/day to 1,393.3 +/- 125.4 pmol/l when the sodium intake was increased to 50 mmol/day and decreased further to 251.6 +/- 78.7 pmol/l by the end of the study. The changes in PRA paralleled those in plasma aldosterone with the exception of no significant change in plasma PRA within 24 h of the initial increase in sodium intake. This marked sensitivity in the responses of both the ANP and the renin aldosterone system to small increases in sodium intake clearly points to their importance in the renal adaptations to alterations in dietary sodium intake. PMID- 2525348 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor induces natriuresis during pacing tachycardia in dogs. AB - To examine whether release of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) can explain the increase in sodium excretion during supraventricular tachycardia, we compared the natriuretic responses with right atrial pacing tachycardia and ANF infusion in six barbiturate-anesthetized dogs. When we raised the dogs' heart rates from 148 +/- 12 to 263 +/- 12 beats/min for 30 min, plasma immunoreactive (IR) ANF rose from 42.1 +/- 3.4 to 139.0 +/- 25.6 pg/ml. Sodium excretion increased from 36.2 +/- 12.8 to 132.4 +/- 40.8 mumol/min in the exposed denervated kidney. When we infused 12.5 ng.min-1.kg body wt-1 of ANF at a spontaneous heart rate of 146 +/- 12 beats/min, plasma IR-ANF rose from 46.0 +/- 5.1 to 121.7 +/- 17.5 pg/ml, which was similar to that observed during pacing tachycardia. Sodium excretion increased from 40.6 +/- 11.3 to 193.6 +/- 46.0 mumol/min, which was higher than that observed during pacing tachycardia. Renal blood flow was lower during pacing tachycardia than during ANF infusion, but glomerular filtration rate and aortic blood pressure were not significantly different during the two procedures. Because sodium excretion was 30% lower during pacing tachycardia, even though plasma IR-ANF was as high as during ANF infusion, we conclude that ANF induces the acute rise in sodium excretion during pacing tachycardia but that hemodynamic changes may attenuate the natriuretic response. PMID- 2525350 TI - Cardiac distribution of alpha-hANP in an infant with total anomalous pulmonary venous return. AB - Atrial natriuretic polypeptide like immunoreactivity (irANP) was searched in the right and left atrial and ventricles following necropsy of a 2-month-old boy who underwent anesthesia for radical surgery to total anomalous pulmonary venous return (TAPVR), who could not be removed from a cardiopulmonary bypass. The irANP concentration was 630 micrograms.g-1 in the right atrium, 3.2 micrograms.g-1 in the right ventricule in 1 100 micrograms.g-1 in the left atrium and 1.7 micrograms.g-1 in the left ventricle, respectively in spite of numerous studies reported that ir ANP cannot be detected in adult ventricles. PMID- 2525349 TI - [Flowmeters and safety rotametric mixers]. AB - Rules and principles in choice of flowmeter take in account the advices of French National Approval Committee. Several and more frequently used and modern flowmeters are discussed, authors wishing an European harmonization of the safety guidelines in anaesthesia for 1993. PMID- 2525351 TI - [Hemodynamic effects of the new phosphodiesterase inhibitor enoximone in heart surgery patients]. AB - The new phosphodiesterase-III inhibitor (PDI) enoximone is a non-catecholamine, non-glycoside cardiotonic agent with concomitant vasodilating properties. It has proved beneficial in patients with severe chronic heart failure. The influence of enoximone i.v. on hemodynamics was investigated during cardiac surgery under various conditions. METHODS. A randomized series of 60 patients undergoing elective aorto-coronary bypass grafting were studied. The hemodynamic effects of 0.5 mg/kg enoximone given i.v. as a bolus (30 s) were investigated before anesthesia (n = 10), during anesthesia (n = 10), and during extracorporeal circulation (ECC, n = 10) and compared with those observed in corresponding control groups (n = 10 in each control) of patients who had received saline solution as placebo. Anesthesia was maintained with weight-dependent dosages of fentanyl, midazolam and pancuronium bromide. All patients were invasively monitored by means of a pulmonary artery catheter. Additionally, left ventricular pressure (LVP), left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP) and dp/dtmax were measured before the initiation of ECC. During ECC direct vascular effects were investigated with measurement of perfusion pressure and the volume of the oxygenator. RESULTS. Before the induction of anesthesia no significant change in MAP and HR could be observed, whereas CI increased (+20%) and TSR decreased ( 24%) significantly. During anesthesia, the injection of enoximone was followed by a significant decrease in MAP only in the 1st min (-17%); baseline level was reached again after 6 min; and HR was slightly increased (+8%). TSR (-31%) and LVEDP (-38%) decreased, whereas CI (+17%) and dp/dtmax (+45%) were increased significantly. During ECC perfusion pressure (-37%) and the volume of the oxygenator (-17%) were significantly decreased, demonstrating direct vasodilating effects on both the arteries and the vein. CONCLUSION. Arterial and venous vasodilation with an increase in myocardial performance (dp/dtmax) resulting in an increase in CI were the predominant hemodynamic effects of enoximone i.v. No arrhythmogenic effects or interactions with the anesthetics used were observed in this study. PMID- 2525352 TI - Postnatal expression of myosin heavy chains in muscle spindles of the rat. AB - The immunocytochemical expression of two myosin isoforms in intrafusal muscle fibers was examined in soleus muscles of neonatal (zero to six days postpartum) and adult rats. Monoclonal antibodies specific for myosin heavy chains of the slow-tonic anterior latissimus dorsi (ALD58) and fast-twitch pectoralis (MF30) muscles of the chicken were used. In adults ALD58 bound to the intracapsular regions of bag1 and bag2 fibers and MF30 bound to the intracapsular regions of bag2 and chain fibers. The extracapsular regions of intrafusal fibers and all extrafusal fibers did not react to ALD58 or MF30. Bag1 and bag2 fibers of neonatal rats expressed immature myosin patterns but chain fibers did not. The adult pattern of immunoreactivity of intrafusal fibers developed by the fourth postnatal day, when the patterns of motor but not sensory innervation in the spindle are still immature. Data suggest that the expression and maintenance of the specific anti-myosin immunoreactivity of intrafusal fibers during postnatal development of rat spindles is dependent upon sensory but not motor innervation. Moreover, afferents might regulate the gene expression responsible for synthesis of myosins isoforms specific to intrafusal fibers only in those myonuclei located within the capsule, but not in the myonuclei in extracapsular regions of intrafusal fibers. PMID- 2525353 TI - Severe reduction in end-tidal PCO2 following unilateral pulmonary artery occlusion in a child with pulmonary hypertension. Evidence for reflex pulmonary vasoconstriction. PMID- 2525354 TI - Dose-response study of droperidol and metoclopramide as antiemetics for outpatient anesthesia. PMID- 2525355 TI - [The concept of handicap by French physicians since 1975]. PMID- 2525356 TI - Plasma anticoagulant mechanisms of heparin, heparan sulfate, and dermatan sulfate. AB - The relationship between two anticoagulant actions of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), namely the catalysis of thrombin inhibition (assessed by thrombin-antithrombin III and thrombin-heparin-cofactor-II formation) and the inhibition of prothrombin activation, was explored by comparing the effects of heparin, heparan sulfate, and dermatan sulfate on the two reactions in plasma. Heparan sulfate and dermatan sulfate were also resulfated in vitro to yield products with sulfate/carboxylate ratios similar to those of heparin. Their effects on thrombin inhibition and the activation of prothrombin were also determined. The catalytic efficiency of the five GAGs on thrombin inhibition and their inhibitory effects on prothrombin activation decreased in the following order: heparin; resulfated dermatan sulfate; resulfated heparan sulfate; heparan sulfate = dermatan sulfate. These results suggest that the catalytic efficiency of a glycosaminoglycan on thrombin inhibition translates to its inhibitory effect on prothrombin activation, since catalysis of thrombin inhibition results in the inhibition of the thrombin dependent positive feedback reactions of coagulation which facilitate prothrombinase formation. PMID- 2525357 TI - Structure of heparan sulfate and dermatan sulfate. PMID- 2525359 TI - Heparin, heparan sulfate, smooth muscle cells, and atherosclerosis. PMID- 2525358 TI - Heparan sulfate proteoglycans of Ras-transformed 3T3 or neuroblastoma cells. Differing functions in adhesion on fibronectin. AB - Initial studies described the significance of heparan sulfate proteoglycans of Balb/c 3T3 cells in their adhesion on fibronectin matrices, including their binding to multiple domains in FN, the importance of this binding in microfilament and close contact formation, and the cooperativity of both HS-PG and 140k glycoprotein integrin's binding to FN to achieve tight-focal contacts under cells. These analyses utilized model HS-binding proteins, such as platelet factor 4, and proteolytic fragments of FN with differing binding activities in both cell biological analyses of adhesion responses and in biochemical analyses of the HS-PG in the adhesion sites. In contrast, dermatan sulfate proteoglycans (DS-PG) inhibit 3T3 adhesion on FN but not on collagen; of special note is the discovery that certain integrin-binding fragments of FN also contain a third HS/DS-binding domain that is cryptic and that provides a more effective mechanism for inhibiting integrin: FN binding. Kirsten Ras oncogene-transformed 3T3 cells and their nude-mouse-derived primary or lung metastatic tumors are also being analyzed by similar approaches. HS-PGs in the adhesion sites of these tumor populations undergo extensive catabolism, resulting in alteration of their binding to FN affinity columns (and by implication alteration in adhesion responses of these tumor cells on FN matrices). Functions for HS-PG on the surface of neuronal cell derivatives, e.g., neuroblastoma cells derived from the neural crest of the embryo and potentially related in some ways to peripheral neurons, are also being explored. HS-binding fragments of FN or PF4 facilitate attachment and spreading of neuroblastoma cells but not neurite outgrowth, contrasting with the ability of dorsal root ganglion neurons to extend neurites on HS-binding substrata. The catabolism of HS-PG in neuroblastoma adhesion sites is minimal, indicating that this cannot be the explanation for incompetence in neurite extension. Neurite extension by neuroblastoma cells on FN results from three different and overlapping binding activities of non-PG receptors on the cell surface--RGDS-dependent binding to integrin, an RGDS-independent mechanism (perhaps a cell type-specific domain), and a ganglioside-dependent process. However, these neurite-extending reactions can be modulated either by exogenous addition of proteoglycans acting in a "trans" manner with the cell surface or by endogenous HG-PG acting in a "cis" manner with one or more of these receptors.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2525360 TI - Location of specific units in heparin and heparan sulfate. PMID- 2525361 TI - Biosynthesis of heparin and heparan sulfate. PMID- 2525362 TI - Cell-surface proteoheparan sulfate structure-function relationships. PMID- 2525363 TI - Influence of age and age-related diseases on olfactory function. AB - It is clear from this review that olfactory function is markedly altered in old age and in a number of age-related diseases. The deficits appear to be rather general and detectable by several types of olfactory tests. Considerable interindividual variability exists, however, and the physiologic bases of these changes are not clear. In many healthy elderly persons, smell loss appears to occur as a result of one or more causes, including viral insult, cumulated exposure to toxic fumes, head trauma, and calcification of the cribriform plate. Several reviews have appeared suggesting that the olfactory system may be a center of primary involvement in AD. Of particular interest is the hypothesis that environmental agents (related etiologically to the disease process) pass into the central nervous system via the highly active transport mechanisms of the olfactory receptors. This latter notion, although attractive, must be viewed conservatively, as it is possible that the olfactory pathways are simply selectively vulnerable to destruction by various disease processes. This may explain why Huntington's chorea and multiinfarct dementia, in addition to AD and PD, are associated with alterations in smell function. Although it is tempting to assume, as have authors such as Koss et al., that alterations in threshold function reflect peripheral olfactory dysfunction and that alterations in odor identification and other more demanding tasks reflect central olfactory dysfunction, there is little empirical support for such a simple dichotomy. Despite the fact that a peripheral/central distinction is useful in clinical audiology (where threshold loss is commonly associated with CN VIII pathology), an evaluation of the utility of this distinction in olfaction requires further research. The limited data suggest that both identification and detection deficits commonly arise from damage to the olfactory epithelium, even though identification deficits unassociated with detection deficits may occur in some central brain disorders. It is apparent from the studies reviewed in this chapter that considerable progress has been made during the last decade in elucidating the nature and prevalence of olfactory disturbances in elderly patients, as well as in patients with dementia-related diseases.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2525364 TI - Nonoperative management of full-thickness intravenous extravasation injuries in premature neonates using enzymatic debridement. AB - Peripheral intravenous fluid extravasation is a common occurrence among neonatal intensive care unit patients. Fifteen high-risk neonates, averaging less than 35 weeks' gestation and less than 1,500 g birth weight, with full-thickness extravasation injuries were successfully treated nonoperatively by a topical fibrinolysin/deoxyribonuclease ointment. All wounds healed without delaying hospital discharge, and no significant scar contractures were observed in patients followed up to 16 months after injury. PMID- 2525365 TI - [Desmoid tumors of the anterior abdominal wall. Apropos of a case]. AB - The authors describe a case of a desmoid tumor of the anterior abdominal wall. From a review of the world literature, the main characteristics of these tumors are detailed, and the various pathophysiological hypotheses, demonstrating the necessity of exclusively surgical treatment, are presented. PMID- 2525366 TI - [Important psychological aspects in the treatment by total hip replacement in patients with congenital dislocation of the hip]. PMID- 2525367 TI - [A case of Hodgkin's disease exhibiting erythrodermia probably due to allergic reaction to vinca alkaloids]. AB - A 58-year-old man with Hodgkin's disease exhibited erythrodermia due to allergic reaction to vincristine sulfate (VCR) and vindesine sulfate (VDS). However, chemotherapy could be continued by changing VCR and VDS to etoposide without allergic symptom. Clinical observation strongly suggested that erythrodermia was due to the use of vinca alkaloids in this patient. Hematological and neurological side effects have been well known for VDS and VCR, but erythrodermia has not yet been reported as being caused by these agents. It is often difficult to differentiate drugs as a cause of an allergic reaction when several drugs are used together. Therefore, it is important to collect all the cases showing the effects of drugs. PMID- 2525368 TI - Chlamydial salpingitis and perihepatitis after tubal occlusion. AB - Chlamydia trachomatis was isolated from the distal part of the tube in a patient with salpingitis and perihepatitis 14 months after laparoscopic tubal occlusion. This suggests that chlamydial infection can spread by the lymphatic or hematogenous routes. PMID- 2525369 TI - [Effects and chronology of coronary restenosis after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. Quantitative angiographic analysis at 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 months]. AB - Coronary restenosis occurs fairly early after transluminal coronary angioplasty, as suggested by anatomico-clinical, isotopic and angiographic studies. Its incidence, as reported in the literature, varies according to the clinical selection of patients, to the number of patients with follow-up angiography and the timing of this procedure, and to the criteria used to define restenosis. In this prospective study we endeavoured to determine the exact date at which restenosis takes place, as well as its true incidence, by means of 6 different angiographic criteria. The population studied was divided into five groups and each group underwent coronary arteriography at a different date: during the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th post-angioplasty months respectively. In 424 of the 500 patients thus examined (84.8 p. 100), coronary angiography involved automatic detection of contours and made quantitative analysis possible. Coronary restenosis was found to occur early, with a peak of incidence in the 3rd month. Its incidence varied considerably depending on the criterion used. A critical analysis of the data has prompted us to use a criterion based on absolute values determined by quantitative angiographic analysis. PMID- 2525370 TI - [Extracardiac malformations in tetralogy of Fallot]. AB - The purpose of our study was to determine the incidence and type of malformations associated with tetralogy of Fallot (TF). Among 133 patients followed up for 12 years, 30 who had either complete TF (n = 26) or pulmonary atresia and interventricular septal defect (n = 4) presented with another, extracardiac malformation. These malformations were part of a malformative syndrome in 21/30 patients, including 4 trisomies 21, 6 embryofoetopathies unquestionably (antiepileptics n = 2, alcohol n = 1) or possibly (hormonal treatment n = 1) of environmental origin, 6 branchial arch pathologies and 5 miscellaneous syndromes. The extracardiac malformation was isolated in the remaining 9 patients, including 5 cases of skeletal anomaly and one case each of omphalocele and microcephaly. Altogether, in these 30 patients skeletal and neurosensory anomalies were largely predominant. Skeletal anomalies involved the vertebral column in 8 cases (cervical 3, thoracic 4, lumbar 1) and the limbs in 5 cases (2 of which were phocomelias). The 4 patients with pulmonary atresia and interventricular septal defect also presented with an early embryopathy: Shprinzen's velocardiofacial syndrome (n = 2), DiGeorge syndrome (n = 1) and situs inversus (n = 1). We compared TF with other congenital heart diseases in our population and found that the incidence of associated malformations was about average. The various associations are discussed. In genetic syndromes, trisomy 21 predominates and TF is less frequent than atrioventricular canal. In syndromes of environmental origin, the role of antiepileptic drugs (chiefly phenytoin and trimethadione) is well-known, alcohol is less often responsible and the TF-phocomelia association is suggestive of progesterone. In branchial arch syndromes, TF is the usual cardiopathy.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525371 TI - [Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of stenosis of the pulmonary arteries after surgical repair of tetralogy of Fallot]. AB - Post-surgical stenoses in patients operated upon for tetralogy of Fallot create difficult therapeutic problems. Between November 1985 and November 1988, we performed 17 percutaneous transluminal angioplasties in 13 children aged from 5 to 15.1 years (7.7 years) for stenosis of pulmonary artery branches after correction of tetralogy of Fallot. Group I consisted of stenoses consecutive to palliative anastomoses: 6 dilatations of 5 stenoses in 4 children. Group II concerned stenoses of the pulmonary artery at the top of widening patch on the pulmonary trunk of bifurcation: 5 dilatations of 5 stenoses in 4 children. Group III was made of congenital stenoses sometimes located upstream of a widening patch which made them worse: 6 dilatations of 6 stenoses in 5 children. Angioplasty was performed after catheterization and angiocardiography, the diameter of the balloon being 1.2 to 4-fold that of the stenosis (mean 2.65). There was no complication. In 7 cases the diameter of the stenosis increased by 27 to 96 p. 100. In 2 of these cases, this increase produced no change in pulmonary pressures and perfusion. In the remaining 5 cases, regarded as successful, the diameter of the stenosis increased from 5.7 mm to 9 mm on average, and the right ventricular pressure fell from 62.4 mmHg to 48.8 mmHg; the gradient was reduced by 24 to 50 p. 100 in 4 cases and the lung perfusion was improved in the 5th case. The proportions of successful angioplasties were: 2 out of 6 in group I, zero out of 5 in group II and 3 out of 6 in group III.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525372 TI - [Middle-term result of surgery in 78 cases of complete atrioventricular canal before one year of age]. AB - Between 1970 and 1985, 78 children with complete atrioventricular canal were operated upon before the age of one year at the Marie-Lannelongue Surgical Centre. Forty-seven survivors were followed up for periods of 3 months to 13 years after the initial operation; 2 were lost of following. Among the 13 children who survived banding, 1 died spontaneously, 1 had Blalock-Taussig anastomosis and 11 underwent full repair with 5 deaths; out of 6 survivors, 4 are doing well without any treatment, 1 was reoperated upon twice and died during the second operation, and 1 was lost sight of; the survival rates at 5 and 10 years are 46 +/- 23 p. 100 and 29 +/- 23 p. 100 respectively. Among the 34 children who survived an initial complete repair, 2 were reoperated upon 3 months after the repair, with 1 death, 7 subsequently died of infection (6 had trisomy 21); out of 26 survivors followed up for 3 years and 3 months on average after the complete repair (2 to 13 years), 18 show an excellent result and 3 a mediocre result; the survival rates at 5 and 10 years are 45 +/- 9 p. 100 and 30 +/- 27 p. 100 respectively. Whether the patients initially had banding followed by complete repair or complete repair from the start, the probability of survival at 5 and 10 years was the same. The presence of trisomy 21 is an unfavourable prognostic factor at medium-term.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525373 TI - [Percutaneous angioplasty of recoarctations of the aorta. Apropos of 11 cases]. AB - Between January 1986 and October 1988, 11 young patients aged from 3 months to 29 years (10.6 years) underwent percutaneous transluminal angioplasty for recoarctation of the aorta. The procedure was performed 3 months to 21 years (6.7 years) after the initial operation for coarctation (9 cases: 8 terminoterminal sutures and 1 Waldhausen operation) or for complete interruption of the aortic arch (2 cases: direct terminoterminal suture with banding of the pulmonary artery in 1 case and closure of an aorto-pulmonary fistula in the other case). The diameter of the balloon selected was at most 1 to 1.5 mm wider than that of the smallest diameter of the aorta upstream or downstream of the stenosis, as measured by prior aortography. Adverse events recorded were thrombosis of the femoral artery in a 1-year old child, transient subendocardial lesion wave during dilatation in another child, and regressive left bundle branch block in a third patient. In one patient a small aneurysm developed at the site of dilatation: it was perfectly stable after 8 months. A satisfactory result was obtained in 4 cases, with a 52 to 95% increase in diameter of the stenosis and reduction of the gradient which fell from 56 mmHg on average to 18.25 mmHg. One child was lost sight of; in the remaining 3 patients the result remained stable after 6 to 20 months. A partial result (widening of the stenosis without change in gradient) was obtained in 2 cases. Five of the 11 cases were failures.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525374 TI - [Atresia of the left coronary ostium. Repair in a 2-month-old infant]. AB - A case of atresia of the left coronary ostium revealed by neonatal heart failure is reported. The initial diagnosis was anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery. At surgery performed in this 6-week old infant the diagnosis was amended and the malformation was repaired. Soon after the operation the child rapidly developed hypertrophic "myocardiopathy" of the left ventricle. Seven and a half months later, he is asymptomatic and the echocardiographic parameters of left ventricular systolic function are gradually returning to normality. Atresia of the left coronary ostium is an exceptional anomaly which must be considered, together with the other anomalous origins of the left coronary artery, when confronted with a case of severe heart failure caused by coronary ischaemia during the first months of life. The diagnosis rests on opacification of the coronary network during cardiac catheterization. Coronary "revascularization" may be performed either by aortocoronary bypass or by anatomical repair of the malformation. PMID- 2525375 TI - Estrone sulfatase activity in normal and neoplastic endometrial tissues of human uterus. AB - Estrone sulfatase activity was measured in normal and neoplastic endometrial tissues of human uterus. The tissue homogenates were incubated in air with [3H] estrone sulfate (E1-S, 20 microM) at 37 degrees C for 30 min. After the enzyme reaction was terminated with ethyl ether, the ethyl ether extract was purified by thin-layer chromatography. The apparent Km of sulfatase was 3.0 microM, and the maximum velocity was 14.7 nmol/h/mg protein. Estrone sulfatase activity in endometrial tissues was detected throughout the menstrual cycle with no significant change. Moreover, estrone sulfatase activity in endometrial cells was not stimulated by the addition of progestogen. The enzyme activity in cancer tissue was significantly higher than in normal tissue. Thus we concluded that this enzyme may play a role in regulating the estrogen action by sifting the intracellular equilibrium between free estrogens and estrogen sulfates. We also concluded that in the endometrial cancer tissue, sulfatase appears to act on local production of estrone. PMID- 2525376 TI - Assessment of the survivors of major trauma accidents. AB - Little has been written on the outcome of the survivors of major trauma accidents. The Glasgow outcome scale has been used to assess outcome following neurotrauma. This study of 90 patients reviewed at an average of 3.2 years post injury used a modified form of the Glasgow outcome scale expanded to include all abbreviated injury score body areas. The average injury severity score was 23.3. The majority of patients had a satisfactory outcome. PMID- 2525378 TI - Functional analogy between lipoprotein(a) and plasminogen in the binding to the kringle 4 binding protein, tetranectin. AB - Apolipoprotein(a), apo(a), contains 37 repeats structurally homologous to kringle 4 structures of the fibrinolysis zymogen plasminogen. The aim of the study was to explore the functional analogy between apolipoprotein(a) and plasminogen in the binding to the kringle-4-binding plasma protein, tetranectin. With a modified crossed immunoelectrophoresis technique, reversible binding between lipoprotein(a) and tetranectin could be demonstrated with an apparent Kd of 0.013 muMol/l. Lys- and Glu-plasminogen showed an apparent Kd of 0.5 muMol/l. Binding of lipoprotein(a) to fibrin and to fibrin-bound tetranectin was found to be negligible. The absence of fibrin binding of lipoprotein(a) excludes a potential mechanism of coexistence of fibrin and lipid deposits in arterial diseases and does not provide for a link between lipoprotein and the clotting system. Plasminogen and lipoprotein(a) show functional analogy in their binding to tetranectin, but tetranectin primarily targets at lipoprotein(a). PMID- 2525377 TI - Comparison of preservative-free and preservative-containing ipratropium bromide. AB - A double-blind crossover study was performed on 33 children with asthma to compare the effectiveness of nebulized solutions of preservative-containing and preservative-free ipratropium bromide. Both solutions produced bronchodilation. No significant differences were found between the two solutions at any time after nebulization in minimum and maximum changes from baseline value or in the areas under the lung function time curves. The presently formulated preservative containing ipratropium bromide solution was not shown to be inferior to a preservative-free compound. PMID- 2525380 TI - Isolation and characterization of iso-rANP, a new natriuretic peptide from rat atria. AB - Using a specific radioimmunoassay we have isolated and sequenced a new 45-amino acid peptide from rat atria which exhibits similar physiological and pharmacological properties to rat atrial natriuretic peptide (rANP). We have termed the new peptide iso-rANP, because of its functional and structural similarities to rANP. Amino acid sequence differences show that iso-rANP is genetically distinct from rANP. Iso-rANP has a single disulfide bond between residues 23-39 and this portion of the peptide shows substantial homology to rANP and to porcine brain natriuretic peptide (BNP). Little homology is evident at the N- and C-termini of iso-rANP and ANP. Iso-rANP is equipotent with rANP in eliciting diuresis, natriuresis and hypotension in the bioassay rat. PMID- 2525379 TI - Occurrence of a novel cardiac natriuretic peptide in rats. AB - We established a specific radioimmunoassay for the ring structure of "iso-ANP" and detected iso-ANP[23-46]-like immunoreactivity (-LI) in the rat atrium (2.76 +/- 0.5 micrograms/g) and ventricle (13.9 +/- 5.7 ng/g). High performance-gel permeation chromatography revealed that iso-ANP[23-46]-LI in the rat heart was composed of two components with molecular weights of 10K and 5K. In reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography, the retention times of these components were clearly different from that of synthetic iso-ANP. The 5K peptide was demonstrated to be present in the perfusate from isolated rat hearts and possessed binding ability to ANP receptors. This natriuretic peptide was, however, not detectable in other tissues including the brain. We conclude that the novel cardiac natriuretic peptide distinct from iso-ANP and ANP occurs in the rat heart and is secreted from the heart. PMID- 2525381 TI - Photoaffinity labelling of mitochondrial NADH: ubiquinone reductase with pethidine analogues. AB - 1. Chemically reactive derivatives of pethidine analogues--novel potent inhibitors of the mitochondrial NADH: ubiquinone reductase (complex I)--were synthesized. 2. Dose-response curves of these components revealed that the photoactivatable aryl azido derivative has retained most of the inhibitory activity displayed by the parent substance. After introduction of a radioactive iodine isotope into the molecule, it was used as a probe for the localization of the inhibitor binding polypeptides within complex I. 3. Photolysis of the radiolabelled derivative bound to isolated complex I both from Neurospora crassa and beef heart resulted in a covalent incorporation of the inhibitor into 6-7 individual subunits of the enzyme. Essentially the same labelling patterns were obtained, when whole mitochondrial membranes were incubated with the reactive derivative. 4. Applying a double isotope labelling technique, the inhibitor binding polypeptides in N. crassa were identified as mitochondrially synthesized constituents of complex I (ND gene products). In the beef heart enzyme the ND-1 product was detected to be among the polypeptides reacting with the inhibitor. 5. Competition experiments employing either NADH or decylbenzoquinone (DB), together with the pethidine analogue, showed that both enzyme substrates interfere specifically with the inhibitor binding to complex I. PMID- 2525383 TI - Another interpretation of the role of T helper cells in the rheumatoid synovium. PMID- 2525382 TI - High-dose, pulse intravenous methylprednisolone enhances Fc gamma receptor mediated mononuclear phagocyte function in systemic lupus erythematosus. AB - The benefit of high-dose, pulse intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMP) for some patients with active lupus nephritis would appear paradoxical, since active nephritis is associated with profound abnormalities in Fc gamma receptor function, and several studies have demonstrated that glucocorticoids decrease monocyte Fc gamma receptor expression and phagocytic function. To resolve this paradox, we investigated the possibility that pulse IVMP might enhance monocyte Fc gamma receptor function in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Circulating immune complex (CIC) levels, Fc gamma receptor-mediated clearance, and Fc gamma receptor-dependent monocyte function were analyzed in 23 SLE patients before and after pulse IVMP (1 gm daily for 3 days). A biphasic response in CIC levels, determined by a staphylococcal protein A binding assay, was observed. Initially, CIC levels increased within 2-4 hours after the first dose of pulse IVMP and then decreased by 50% within 24-48 hours after the completion of therapy. Fc gamma receptor-mediated binding and phagocytosis of IgG-sensitized erythrocytes (EA) by monocytes in vitro were significantly enhanced 24 hours after the final dose of pulse IVMP (pre-IVMP versus post-IVMP 43 +/- 14% versus 53 +/- 12% EA rosettes, P less than 0.01; 3.00 +/- 1.04 versus 3.99 +/- 1.30 EA ingested/monocyte, P less than 0.01). In contrast, there was no change in the phagocytosis of an Fc gamma receptor-independent probe, neuraminidase-treated erythrocytes.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525384 TI - Alphonsus of Ligouri. A patron for the handicapped. PMID- 2525385 TI - Faecal fistula as the result of thermal injury to the abdominal wall. AB - A 23-year-old male with an 87 per cent body surface area burn from a motor vehicle accident developed a left lower quadrant abdominal wall faecal fistula. This fistula presumably resulted from thermal injury to the level of the peritoneum. This case report describes the course and management of this unusual occurrence. PMID- 2525387 TI - [Drug utilization at the University Hospital]. AB - With the aim of establishing guidelines on the proper use of drugs and defined daily doses (DDD) for Brazil, a system for collecting data and analyzing the demand for and consumption of drugs is being implemented at the University Hospital of the University of Sao Paulo. To this end, statistics were drawn from the pharmacy and from medical records. The products standardized by the hospital using the alphanumeric code (based on the official structure of the Ministry of Health) were identified, with five levels of information. The first, expressed in letters, divides the drugs into 14 major groups, defined in accordance with specializations in medical services. The subsequent levels identify the anatomical-pharmacological subgroups, classes, active principles, and dosage forms. The system makes possible access to different levels of drug classification, and allows for introducing changes to the list of standardized drugs without affecting the already-recorded information. This study on the use of drugs, in a standard health care environment, will make it possible to draw important conclusions as to the relationship between the demand profile and the morbidity profile. PMID- 2525386 TI - Distribution of lymphocytes in intermingled skin grafts. AB - Chinese intermingled skin grafts of allogenic material interspersed with small autogenic islets heal permanently with no signs of a rejection reaction. A study of the T-helper and T-suppressor cells in the region of the autogenic islets and the remaining allodermis revealed a distinctly greater frequency of these cells in the islets, with marked massing of the cells between the autoepithelium and the autodermis. Histologically it could be shown, that the Langerhans' cells grow over the allodermis together with the epithelium, although compared with the autogenic islets their number in the newly formed epidermis remained reduced. PMID- 2525388 TI - [Drug use among students in Cali, Colombia]. AB - The use of alcohol, tobacco, marihuana, cocaine, and bazuco was examined in a cross-sectional study of a random sample of 512 secondary-school students enrolled in public and private schools in Cali, Colombia. The overall prevalence of use for any of these substances was 59.38% in the public schools and 36.96% in the private schools (z = 4.6, P less than 0.05). The probability of finding an alcohol user was about 55.26%. The frequency of use for all the substances was 18.9% in the public schools and 7.46% in the private ones. Experience with marihuana, cocaine, and bazuco was more frequent in the public schools. The average age of users (19.91 years) was higher than that of non-users (16.25 years): t = 8.34, P less than 0.05. Students in the public schools with a family history of mental illness had almost a ninefold greater risk of being substance users (RR = 8.84, IC 95% = 1.22-3.37); among students in the private schools, having personal conflicts with authority figures (teachers and the police) was a significant risk factor (RR = 2.03, IC 95% = 1.22-3.37). PMID- 2525389 TI - [Infantile methemoglobinemia caused by nitrates]. AB - The intake of water or food with high levels of nitrates produces methemoglobinemia in infants up to 3 months of age. The study reviews factors in the environment and in the host that account for the increased risk in this age group. In order to reduce the prevalence of this problem, health authorities should control nitrate concentrations in drinking water, create adequate water supply systems, implement educational programs aimed at informing parents about preventive measures, and call on physicians to report cases of methemoglobinemia. PMID- 2525390 TI - [AIDS and primary care]. PMID- 2525391 TI - [Breast feeding and dietary supplementation]. AB - This study was conducted in five health centers of the Secretariat of Health of the State of Sao Paulo, in the city of Ribeirao Preto, during July 1983. In order to ascertain feeding practices, interviews were given to 389 mothers at the time of their children's enrollment in the food supplement program. Contradictions were observed between the objectives and implementation of the breast-feeding promotion program in view of the high number of children enrolled in the milk supplement program prior to reaching six months of age, and the number of those under three months who were partially or completely breast-fed and were also being enrolled in the supplement program. The major reasons given by mothers for early weaning were that they had insufficient milk or their "milk had dried up", followed by the mother's need to work outside the home, and mammary causes. Maintaining breast-feeding up to the time of enrollment of the child in the milk supplement program was associated with mothers who were multiparous and had had previous experience with breast-feeding. PMID- 2525392 TI - [Mortality from acute diarrheal diseases in children under 5 years of age. Cuba, 1959-1987]. AB - Mortality from acute diarrheal diseases in Cuban children under 5 for the period 1959-1987 is analyzed. The data come from the Public Health Ministry's National Bureau of Statistics and other sources. The death rate in children under 5 declined from 28.5 per 10,000 in 1959 to 1.4 in 1987, or 95.1%. In the 1-4 age group it was reduced by 97.8%, and in those under 1 year, by 94.2%. In 1959 the deaths from acute diarrheal diseases represented 30.6% of all deaths in children under 5; 29.5% in those under 1 year, and 34.0 in those between 1 and 4. In contrast, by 1987 the respective figures had fallen to 4.1, 4.5, and 2.2%. The acute diarrheal disease situation in several countries of the Americas is stated for purposes of comparison and, finally, factors that have helped to lower mortality from this cause are analyzed as are other factors which will contribute to lower it in the future. PMID- 2525394 TI - [Nutritional intake of folic acid in breast-fed infants]. AB - The relationship of natural and artificial feeding to serum and red cell folate levels, as a means of evaluating nutritional intake of this vitamin, was studied. First a cross-sectional study was undertaken in which a group of 112 infants still being breast-fed at 4, 6, and 9 months of age had significantly higher folate concentrations than another group of 102 infants who had been weaned before 2 months. At 6 months of age the prevalence of folic acid deficiency (red cell folate less than 160 micrograms/l of erythrocytes) was 0% in the first group and 15.4% in the second (P less than 0.02), and at 9 months the respective proportions were 3.6 and 28.9% (P less than 0.01). In a second study, 50 nursing infants were followed longitudinally during their first 15 months of life, and up to 9 months of age a direct correlation was observed between the folate concentrations and the duration of breast-feeding. In order to prevent a deficiency of this vitamin, it is recommended that infants be exclusively breast fed at least through the age of 6 months or, failing this, that they be fed infant formula enriched with folic acid. PMID- 2525393 TI - [Prevalence of serologic markers of viral hepatitis in various population groups in Peru]. AB - A review was undertaken of 7,521 serum samples that had been tested to detect or confirm the presence of different hepatitis A, B, and delta serologic markers. The sources of the samples included a national reference laboratory, several outbreaks of viral hepatitis in civilian and military populations, and a serologic survey. They were examined using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The prevalence of antibody to hepatitis A virus was very high (means = 92.2%), and it was uniform. Prevalence of hepatitis B markers was more variable and inconsistent; it was high in samples from the jungle region of Peru, where the average prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) was 4.9%. Antibodies to delta hepatitis were present in 28.6% of the carriers of HBsAg identified in the outbreaks. All the outbreaks had similarities, including a high, cyclic case-fatality rate associated with the delta virus. Hepatitis A is highly endemic in Peru, while hepatitis B has average endemicity. It will be necessary to do more etiologic diagnosis of cases and conduct more research in order to better understand the epidemiology of viral hepatitis in this country. PMID- 2525396 TI - Biodistribution of indium 111-labeled dihematoporphyrin ether in papillomas and body tissues. Relevance to photodynamic therapy. AB - Hematoporphyrin derivative and its newly purified form, dihematoporphyrin ether, have been shown to localize selectively in malignant tissues and virally induced papillomas. Its use as a probe to distinguish tumors from normal tissues has been largely based on its fluorescence when activated by UV light. These findings are largely subjective, and a direct correlation to its use as a photosensitizing agent to selectively kill transformed cells when activated by an appropriate wavelength of light could not be made. The efficacy of dihematoporphyrin ether photodynamic therapy to selectively kill papillomavirus-transformed cells is based on the increased localization of dihematoporphyrin ether within these tissues as compared with normal tissues. Using cottontail rabbit papillomavirus, cutaneous papillomas were induced on the backs of Dutch belted rabbits. Dihematoporphyrin ether was labeled with indium 111 and intravenously injected into the rabbits. The animals were scanned twice daily for indium 111 activity on a large-field-of-view gamma camera. At 50 hours after injection, the rabbits were killed and papillomas, skin, and major organs collected for biodistribution studies. The results of this study and their relationship to dihematoporphyrin ether photodynamic therapy for the treatment of virally induced papilloma disease is discussed. PMID- 2525395 TI - Decreased adenosine triphosphatase activity in the absence of adrenocorticosteroids. AB - Changes in adenosine triphosphatase activity and cellular integrity of rat inner ear tissues were observed after removal of adrenal steroids via bilateral adrenalectomy. Statistical significance of total and magnesium ion-dependent adenosine triphosphatase activities of the stria vascularis, spiral ligament, and ampullar dark cells from adrenalectomized animals was detected when compared with those of controls as demonstrated by fluorometric microassay. Although there was a similar reduction of activity in utricular dark-cell tissues, no significant difference between the treated and control animals was observed. An increase of intercellular space and a decrease in basolateral infoldings of cells of the stria vascularis and dark cell regions of adrenalectomized animals were observed. Such data collectively provide indirect evidence that adrenal steroids are involved in the cellular regulation of inner-ear tissues that are concerned with fluid and ionic microhomeostasis. PMID- 2525397 TI - Adjuvant treatment with high dose medroxyprogesterone acetate in node-negative early breast cancer. A 3-year interim report on a randomized trial (I). AB - After initial surgery, 240 pre-, peri- or postmenopausal patients with early node negative breast carcinoma were randomized to receive either no hormone therapy or adjuvant therapy with medroxyprogesterone acetate at high dosage (HD-MPA; 500 mg IM per day times 28 or 500 mg intramuscularly (i.m.) 5 days a week for 5 weeks then 500 mg i.m. twice weekly for the 5 following months. After a median follow up time of 3 years, relapse-free survival and overall survival appeared significantly improved in the HD-MPA arm. Side effects were tolerable. PMID- 2525398 TI - [Mg++-ATPase activity in circumventricular capillaries during fetal development of rats]. AB - We performed an ultracytochemical study of Mg++-ATPase as a marker of maturation in circumventricular capillaries at the developmental stage of rats, from 19 gestational days to 18 postnatal day, comparing with hippocampal capillaries. During the course of perinatal development, the predominant site of the Mg++ ATPase activity in circumventricular capillaries was shifted from the luminal cell membrane to the antiluminal cell membrane and the total enzyme activity was markedly increased. In all hippocampal capillaries observed, the predominant site of the Mg++-ATPase activity was the antiluminal cell membrane. It was suggested that immaturity of circumventricular capillaries may be one of the causative factors leading to intraventricular and subependymal hemorrhages in neonates. PMID- 2525399 TI - Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of left internal mammary artery grafts: two years' experience with a femoral approach. AB - Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty via the femoral approach was attempted through internal mammary artery grafts in 11 patients who presented with distal anastomotic stenoses or distal native coronary artery stenoses and angina pectoris. The procedure was technically successful in 10 patients and no major complications occurred. During follow up there was one late death, but all 10 surviving patients showed functional improvement. Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty seems to be a safe and effective treatment for stenoses of internal mammary artery grafts. This is an effective technique for treating the increasing number of patients who are likely to present with stenoses of these grafts. PMID- 2525400 TI - Anthracycline-induced toxicity affecting palmar and plantar skin. PMID- 2525401 TI - Photodynamic therapy effect in an intraocular retinoblastoma-like tumour assessed by an in vivo to in vitro colony forming assay. AB - Cell survival was investigated in an intraocular retinoblastoma-like tumour 30 min to 48 h after photodynamic therapy. The survival of the cells was assessed by an in vivo to in vitro colony forming assay, estimated by either the plating efficiency of the treated tumour cells compared to non-treated cells or the number of clonogenic cells per mg excised tumour. Curves showing cell survival as a function of the time between light irradiation and excision of the intraocular tumours were biphasic. This suggests more than one PDT tissue destruction mechanism in vivo (i.e. an early direct cell damage plus a subsequent late damage occurring in the tumour tissue left in situ after treatment). The delayed mechanism may be due to changes in the environment of the tumours probably caused by vascular damage. Tumour cells sensitised by Photofrin II in vivo and excised from the eyes were damaged by light when irradiated in vitro and this was dependent on the light energy dose. This showed that cellular Photofrin II uptake in the eye tumours was sufficient for direct cell damage and thus supports the suggestion that direct and indirect tumour destruction occurs in this eye tumour after photodynamic therapy. PMID- 2525403 TI - Phase II study of high-dose medroxyprogesterone acetate in advanced malignant melanoma. PMID- 2525402 TI - Modification by vasoactive drugs of tumour destruction by photodynamic therapy with haematoporphyrin derivative. AB - Since the vascular endothelium is a primary site of damage after photodynamic therapy (PDT), it seemed likely that drugs which affect the vasculature may modify the outcome of PDT. Noradrenaline, propranolol, hydralazine and phenoxybenzamine inhibited photodynamic damage to tumours if these drugs were administered concurrently with HPD, 2 h before irradiation. This inhibition was associated with reduced uptake of HPD into tumours. There was no inhibition if irradiation was delayed until 24 h after administration of vasoactive drug, presumably because HPD uptake continued after the drugs had ceased to affect the vasculature. Verapamil enhanced photodynamic destruction of tumours when administered concurrently with HPD and the enhancement was associated with increased uptake of HPD into tumours. Verapamil neither increased uptake of HPD nor enhanced photodynamic destruction of cells in vitro. When verapamil was administered after irradiation, regrowth of tumours was inhibited. A similar effect was previously demonstrated with glucocorticoids. Other calcium channel blocking agents diltiazem and nifedipine had no effect on uptake of HPD or inhibition of regrowth of tumours after PDT. Inhibition of capillary or stromal ingrowth into tumours seems a plausible explanation of this effect of verapamil. This commonly used drug may be useful to enhance the efficacy of PDT. PMID- 2525404 TI - Transformation of Neurospora crassa by an integrative transforming plasmid is not enhanced by ribosomal DNA sequences. AB - Two integrative transforming plasmids of Neurospora crassa that differed only by the presence of almost all of a ribosomal DNA repeat unit on one plasmid were constructed. The plasmids were used to test the target concentration hypothesis which states that the transformation frequency is proportional to the number of genomic copies of a homologous sequence located on the transforming plasmid. Since there are approx. 200 copies of the rDNA sequences in the genome, the target concentration hypothesis would have been proved if the transformation frequency was 200-fold higher for the rDNA-containing plasmid compared with the plasmid without rDNA. The results indicated no difference in the transformation for the two plasmids, thereby providing no support for the hypothesis. The target concentration hypothesis has been proved for yeast, and thus mechanisms different from that responsible for integrative transformation in yeast must operate in N. crassa, perhaps including non-homologous recombination events. PMID- 2525406 TI - Angioplasty after thrombolysis in the treatment of evolving myocardial infarction. AB - Potent pharmacological agents that rapidly induce coronary thrombolysis reduce morbidity and mortality from evolving myocardial infarction especially when administered early after the onset of ischemia. However, recanalization frequently unmasks residual, high-grade stenoses that can impair reflow, predispose to reocclusion, and limit salvage of myocardium. Coronary angioplasty performed immediately after recanalization induced by thrombolysis reduces the severity of stenosis and can enhance salvage. Unfortunately, complication rates are higher with emergency compared with delayed angioplasty. Thus, mechanical recanalization early after thrombolysis should be reserved for patients with signs or symptoms of recurrent ischemia or for those in whom pharmacological recanalization has failed but a large amount of myocardium remains at risk. PMID- 2525407 TI - [The hemodynamics of the lesser circulation and blood indices in rats under long term high-altitude hypoxia]. AB - Pulmonary hemodynamics in anesthetized rats was studied during long-term residence (2,5 and 10 months) at high altitude (3,200 m, Tien Shan). Transbronchial regional electroplethysmography and catheterization of pulmonary artery was used. It has been shown that at all periods of adaptation there was increased systolic pressure in pulmonary artery and practically unchanged diastolic one. Some regional redistributions of pulmonary blood flow and blood volume for five different lung parts were demonstrated. Hemoglobin content in erythrocytes was steadily increased while specific electric blood resistance, hematocrit, and number of erythrocytes did not change so significantly. The role of pulmonary arterial hypertension and changes of other studied indices of hemodynamics and red blood in adaptation to chronic high-altitude hypoxia are being discussed. PMID- 2525405 TI - Purification from a yeast mutant of mitochondrial F1 with modified beta-subunit. High affinity for nucleotides and high negative cooperativity of ATPase activity. AB - Mitochondrial F1 containing genetically modified beta-subunit was purified for the first time from a mutant of the yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe. Precipitation by poly(ethylene glycol) allowed us to obtain a very stable and pure enzyme from either mutant or wild-type strain. In the presence of EDTA, purified F1 retained high amounts of endogenous nucleotides: 4.6 mol/mol and 3.7 mol/mol for mutant and wild-type F1, respectively. The additional nucleotide in mutant F1 was ATP; it was lost in the presence of Mg2+, which led to a total of 3.4 mol of nucleotides/mol whereas wild-type F1 retained all its nucleotides. Mutant F1 bound more exogenous ADP than wild-type F1 and the same total nucleotide amount was reached with both enzymes. Kinetics of ATPase activity revealed a much higher negative cooperativity for mutant than for wild-type F1. Bicarbonate abolished this negative cooperativity, but higher concentrations were required for mutant F1. The mutant enzyme was more sensitive than the wild-type one to azide inhibition and ADP competitive inhibition; this indicated stronger interactions between nucleotide and F1 in the mutant enzyme. The latter also showed increased sensitivity to N,N'-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide irreversible inhibition. PMID- 2525408 TI - [A method for determining plasmin by the rate of fibrin gel lysis]. AB - A simple and sensitive method has been developed to assess the fibrinolytic activity of plasmin from the change in the column height of fibrin gel. Two conditions were used: 1) 37 degrees C and 16 h incubation at plasmin concentrations of 0.5-50 micrograms/ml and 2) 25 degrees C and 1-2.5 h incubation at plasmin concentrations of 50-1000 micrograms/ml. The method permits to observe the kinetics of fibrinolysis at plasmin concentrations higher that 10 micrograms/ml. The results have shown that the method is applicable for quantitation of plasminogen in human plasma. The method is precise and well reproducible. PMID- 2525409 TI - Training in coronary angioplasty. PMID- 2525410 TI - Training for coronary angioplasty. PMID- 2525411 TI - Internalization of atrial natriuretic peptide by adrenal glomerulosa cells. AB - Internalization of 125I-labelled atrial natriuretic peptide ([ 125I]ANP) by rat adrenal glomerulosa cells in vivo was investigated by means of an ultrastructural autoradiographic approach. One to 30 min after IV injection of [125I]ANP, silver grains were found, at the light microscope level, over all glomerulosa cells; coinjection of 20 micrograms of unlabelled ANP inhibited this binding by 64%. At the electron microscope level, the time-course study indicated maximal silver grain densities in plasma membranes 1 min after IV injection; grains were detected in mitochondria (external membranes and matrix) 2 min after injection, with maximal labelling at 15 min. The cytoplasmic matrix was labelled only 30 min after injection. During the time-course, labelling of nuclei, Golgi apparatus, and lysosomes was minimal. The data suggest that after binding to plasma membranes ANP is rapidly internalized and distributed within glomerulosa cells. The association of radioactivity with mitochondria suggests that ANP may have intracellular sites of action complementary to those on plasma membranes. PMID- 2525412 TI - Changing concepts in renovascular surgery. PMID- 2525413 TI - Differential effects of quinolinic acid lesions on muscarinic acetylcholine receptors in cat visual cortex during postnatal development. AB - Quinolinic acid (QA) lesions of neurons in cat visual cortex were combined with conventional in vitro autoradiographic methods in order to define the cellular locus of the muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (mAChR). Animals of various postnatal ages had QA unilaterally injected into the visual cortex. Four to fourteen days later they were sacrificed and processed for electron microscopy (EM) or in vitro autoradiography. QA lesions at the various postnatal ages were found to eliminate intrinsic cortical neurons and their processes while leaving intact glia, fibers of passage and axon terminals from outside the lesion zone. Autoradiograms of visual cortex labelled with [3H]QNB (which labels M1 and M2 subtypes) showed an age-dependent loss of binding sites, with the greatest decreases occurring after 65 days postnatal. Examined separately, only the M1 mAChRs labelled with [3H]pirenzepine exhibited these age-dependent alterations. The results indicate a differential distribution of the M1 mAChRs during postnatal development. The loss of receptors late in postnatal life following QA suggests a dominantly neuronal locus; the relatively small loss early in postnatal life suggests a locus on other cellular elements. PMID- 2525414 TI - The functional deficiency of B lymphocytes in patients with lung cancer is due to inadequate T-cell help and excessive suppression by T and non-T cells. AB - The proliferative and plaque-forming cell (PFC) responses of unseparated mononuclear cells (MNC) and B- and T-cell-enriched populations of cells were analyzed in 15 patients with lung cancer to determine the mechanisms involved in the functional abnormality of their B cells. The PFC responses of the MNC of the patient group were significantly lower than those of normal controls. In addition, the enriched B cells of several patients showed a further decrease in their PFC responses after coculture with autologous T cells compared with their respective MNC responses. The proliferative response against phytohemagglutinin (PHA) was also lower in many of the patients after similar cocultures. Cocultures of patients' B cells with T cells from normal controls significantly enhanced the PFC responses in 7 patients. In most of the normal controls, B lymphocytes showed a significant decrease in their PFC responses after coculture with the patients' T cells. Although the percentages of total T cells, T-helper, and B cells were within the normal range, the number of suppressor T cells was significantly higher in the patient group. These results indicate that a combination of insufficient T-cell help, excessive suppression by both T and non-T cells, and a possible intrinsic B-cell abnormality are responsible for the B-cell functional deficiency observed in patients with lung cancer. PMID- 2525415 TI - Regional chemotherapy for hepatic metastases of colorectal carcinoma (continuous intraarterial versus continuous intraarterial/intravenous therapy). Results of a controlled clinical trial. AB - Sixty-four patients with a biopsy diagnosis of colorectal cancer with liver metastases were treated with 5-fluorodeoxyuridine (FUDR) infusions. In a pilot study, the first 20 patients were given hepatic artery infusions of FUDR by implanted pumps. The remaining 44 patients were then randomized prospectively to compare the effectiveness of continuous hepatic artery and intravenous infusion of FUDR (IA/IV group; 21 patients) with hepatic artery infusion alone (IA group; 23 patients). A continuous 14-day infusion regimen of FUDR was applied each month. The dosage was 0.2 mg/kg/d of FUDR for the IA group and 0.3 mg/kg/d for the IA/IV group. The complete and partial response rates were each 50% in the pilot study and 52% and 48% in the IA and IA/IV randomized groups, respectively. Drug toxicities in the 64 patients included gastroenteritis (21%), chemical hepatitis (57%), and biliary sclerosis (25%). There was no difference in the toxicity of FUDR in the two randomized groups (P greater than 0.1). Extrahepatic spread of cancer during therapy was found in 61% (n = 14) of the IA group and 33% (n = 7) of the IA/IV group. There was no difference in survival between the randomized groups. The 64 patients were categorized into the following two groups according to their response to therapy: (1) responders (patients with complete or partial remission [n = 32]) or nonresponders (patients with stable disease or progression of metastases [n = 32]). The median survival time was 31 months for responders and 16 months for nonresponders (P less than 0.0001). Intraarterial FUDR infusion provided control of liver metastases. The combination of intraarterial and intravenous therapy seemed to prevent extrahepatic spread during therapy in most of the patients. Survival appeared to be significantly prolonged in patients with a regression of metastases. PMID- 2525416 TI - Decreased vacuolar acidification capacity in drug-resistant rat liver preneoplastic nodules. AB - Rat liver nodules produced by intermittent 2-acetylaminofluorene feeding exhibit alterations in cell surface receptors reminiscent of impairment of vacuolar acidification. In this report, vacuolar acidification activity, measured as the ATP-dependent quenching of acridine orange, was characterized in liver and nodular membrane fractions using various ion-transport inhibitors and with respect to nucleotide specificity and divalent cation dependence. Based on these criteria and on the comparison of vacuolar acidification activity with mitochondrial, lysosomal, and plasma membrane marker enzymes in different subcellular fractions, it was concluded that the assay measures the proton pump associated with exocytic and/or endocytic vacuolar compartments. When the vacuolar acidification activity was compared in liver and nodular subcellular membrane fractions, it was found that the vacuolar acidification was most strongly reduced in nodular low-density membrane fractions enriched in Golgi derived membranes and endocytic vesicles. The data indicate that vacuolar, i.e., exocytic and/or endocytic, prelysosomal intracellular compartments in rat liver nodules are markedly deficient in acidification capacity, possibly providing an explanation to various metabolic aberrations, such as diminished iron accumulation and reduced protein degradation, observed in rat liver nodular cells. PMID- 2525417 TI - Acquisition by the murine host of responsiveness toward various neoplastic cell lines, but not toward self, through adoptive transfer of a helper T-lymphocyte clone with antiself specificity. AB - Self-antigens, when expressed on neoplastic cells, have been shown to exhibit a certain antigenicity. We attempted to apply this antigenicity to enhance antitumor immune responses. Cells from the syngeneic, CD4+, CD8-, helper T lymphocyte clone TE2 were adoptively transferred to C57BL/6 mice. TE2 lymphocytes recognize a self-antigen on splenocytes that is expressed aberrantly on the neoplastic cell lines EL4/8, EL4/13, B16-BL6, and PG19, all of C57BL/6 origin. Their adoptive transfer led to the rejection by the host of the former neoplastic cells and of 3LL carcinoma cells, administered 2 months later; inocula 40 to 80 times the minimal lethal size were rejected and conveyed to the mice a 10-fold enhanced cytotoxic T-lymphocyte response. Despite the autoimmune responsiveness of the TE2 T-lymphocytes, no graft-versus-host reaction was apparent. This conclusion is based on the absence of a polyclonal B-lymphocyte stimulation in the host, the stable number of residual donor TE2 cells, and the general health of the recipient mice. Consequently, the autoimmune and tumor-responsive TE2 cells, transplanted into the immune environment of the host, exhibit a specificity that is restricted toward neoplastic cells. PMID- 2525418 TI - Effects of laser thermal angioplasty on arterial contractions and mechanics. AB - In each of 8 rabbits, a fiberoptic with a 1.5 mm diameter metal tip was inserted into the abdominal aorta. After preheating with 8-10 watts of argon laser energy, the metal tip was passed through the external iliac artery. Thermal injury was evaluated by histology and by measuring arterial contractions and wall mechanics. The contralateral iliac artery was used as a control. Laser thermal angioplasty (LTA) produced foci of coagulation necrosis, medial thinning, and wall rupture. Concomitantly, maximal arterial contractile force was reduced by 80% (p less than 0.01) and arterial wall stiffness was decreased (p less than 0.05). These changes may have clinical implications with regard to the incidence and severity of vasospasm and restenosis following angioplasty. PMID- 2525419 TI - Accelerated thrombolysis and angioplasty for hand ischemia in Buerger's disease. AB - A patient with severe hand ischemia due to Buerger's disease was treated by a rapidly effective modification of percutaneous catheterization. Accelerated mechanical and pharmacologic thrombolysis of an occluded palmar arch with 200,000 U urokinase and subsequent small vessel angioplasty abolished pain and restored digital perfusion within 40 min. PMID- 2525420 TI - Comparison of a salicylic acid cleanser and a benzoyl peroxide wash in the treatment of acne vulgaris. AB - A four-week crossover study to compare the efficacy of an acne cleanser containing 2% salicylic acid with that of a 10% benzoyl peroxide wash was conducted in 30 patients with acne vulgaris. The results demonstrated that only patients treated with the salicylic acid cleanser had a significant reduction in comedones. Patients treated with the salicylic acid cleanser for the first two weeks showed a significant improvement in acne, but worsened during benzoyl peroxide therapy over the following two weeks. In contrast, patients initially treated with the benzoyl peroxide wash for the first two weeks continued to improve with salicylic acid cleanser over the next two weeks. PMID- 2525421 TI - The gamma delta T cell receptor and class Ib MHC-related proteins: enigmatic molecules of immune recognition. PMID- 2525422 TI - Acquisition of immunologic self-tolerance. PMID- 2525424 TI - Translation of the bacteriophage Mu mom gene is positively regulated by the phage com gene product. AB - Expression of the bacteriophage Mu mom gene is subject to posttranscriptional regulation by the phage com gene product. We have used mom-lacZ translational fusion genes to define the sequence requirements for stimulation of mom expression by Com. We show that the mom translation initiation region (TIR) is inactive in the absence of Com. We suggest that this repressed state is due to mRNA secondary structure in the TIR, since a deletion that destabilizes a stem loop structure in the TIR results in high levels of Com-independent translation. We identify sequences on the mRNA, adjacent to the stem and loop, that are required for stimulation by Com. We propose that Com acts to stimulate initiation of translation by relieving the structural repression of the mom TIR. Indirect evidence is presented suggesting that Com binds to a site in the TIR. PMID- 2525423 TI - The p53 proto-oncogene can act as a suppressor of transformation. AB - DNA clones of the wild-type p53 proto-oncogene inhibit the ability of E1A plus ras or mutant p53 plus ras-activated oncogenes to transform primary rat embryo fibroblasts. The rare clones of transformed foci that result from E1A plus ras plus wild-type p53 triple transfections all contain the p53 DNA in their genome, but the great majority fail to express the p53 protein. The three cell lines derived from such foci that express p53 all produce mutant p53 proteins with properties similar or identical to transformation-activated p53 proteins. The p53 mutants selected in this fashion (transformation in vitro) resemble the p53 mutants selected in tumors (in vivo). These results suggest that the p53 proto oncogene can act negatively to block transformation. PMID- 2525425 TI - Human cytotoxic lymphocytes. IV. Frequency and clonal specificity of CD8+CD16 (Leu2+Leu11-) and CD16+CD3-(Leu11+Leu4-) cytotoxic lymphocyte precursors activated by alloantigen or K562 stimulator cells. AB - Cell sorter-purified CD8+CD16- (Leu2+Leu11-) cytotoxic T cell precursors and CD16+CD3-(Leu11+Leu4-) natural killer (NK) cells were cultured under limiting dilution (LD) conditions with allogeneic stimulator cells or with K562 tumor cells in the presence of exogenous interleukin 2. One out of 100-200 alloantigen stimulated Leu2+ T cells clonally developed into an alloantigen-specific cytotoxic T cell, but only 1 out of 500-3400 of these cells lysed NK-susceptible K562 target cells. In contrast, 1 out of 2-35 alloantigen-stimulated Leu11+ precursor cells developed into an effector cell that lysed K562, but less than 1 out of 500 of these cells lysed allogeneic Con A blast targets. However, clonal activation of Leu11+ precursor cells under LD conditions did not require alloantigenic stimulator cells. Comparable high frequencies (f = 1/3 to 1/28) of anti-K562 cytotoxic lymphocyte precursors were thus measured when Leu11+ precursor cells were cultured on autologous or K562 feeder cells. As shown by a split culture approach, the vast majority of alloantigen-activated Leu2+ effector cells were highly specific for the stimulating alloantigen (i.e., they did not lyse K562), while the majority of Leu11+ microcultures lysed K562 tumor cells but neither autologous nor allogeneic Con A blast targets. On a quantitative basis, these data show that CD8+CD16- T cells and CD16+CD3-NK cells are two mutually exclusive lymphocyte populations which clonally develop into cytotoxic effector cells specific for alloantigen or K562 target cells, respectively. PMID- 2525428 TI - Occupational back pain: issues in prevention and treatment. PMID- 2525426 TI - Human T lymphocytes expressing the C3b/C4b complement receptor type one (CR1, CD35) belong to Fc gamma receptor-positive CD4-positive T cells. AB - The phenotypic characteristics of human T lymphocytes expressing the C3b/C4b complement receptor type one (CR1, CD35) were investigated using dual-color surface immunofluorescence and cytofluorometric analysis of stained peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from normal individuals. Two to ten percent of PBMC coexpressed CR1 and the CD5, CD2, or CD3 antigen. CR1 was detected on a subset of CD4+ T lymphocytes but not on CD8+ or on Leu-7+ lymphocytes. Costaining for CR1 and for the CD4 subpopulation markers anti-Leu-8, TQ1, OKT17, 2H4, and 4B4 indicated that CR1 on lymphocytes may be coexpressed with any of these phenotypic determinants. All CR1+ lymphocytes expressed Fc gamma receptors (Fc gamma Rs) as assessed by their ability to bind biotinylated dimeric human IgG. The expression of CR1 was increased in mixed lymphocyte reaction with kinetics similar to those of HLA-DR antigen expression. Coexpression of CR1 and Fc gamma R+ may provide a subset of CD4+ lymphocytes with an enhanced ability to bind and respond to C3-bearing complexes of IgG and antigen. PMID- 2525427 TI - Fc receptors for IgE (Fc epsilon R) on human lymphoid cells: inducible expression of Fc epsilon RII (CD23) on lymphocytes and detection by monoclonal anti-Fc epsilon RII antibody. AB - The studies presented herein describe (1) a sensitive, quantitative, and objective assay for detecting cell membrane-bound form of Fc receptors for IgE displayed on human lymphoid cells based on measuring unlabeled Fc epsilon R-bound IgE by a solid-phase RIA of cell lysate fluids; (2) the development and characterization of an IgM monoclonal antibody, termed 7E4, which is specific for human lymphocyte Fc epsilon RII (CD23) molecules; and (3) a system for reproducibly inducing de novo synthesis and expression of Fc epsilon RII proteins on human lymphocytes following exposure to the mitogenic lectin, pokeweed mitogen. The Fc epsilon RII molecules induced by exposure to PWM were proven to be present on lymphocytes, and not on other cell types in several ways, including (1) documenting sensitivity of such proteins to both acid pH and trypsin treatment, the latter manipulation being ineffective in removing Fc epsilon RII molecules on basophils and mast cells; (2) demonstrating specific reactivity of the expressed Fc epsilon RII molecules with the 7E4 monoclonal antibody, which is specific for human lymphocyte Fc epsilon RII molecules and does not react with Fc epsilon R molecules on other cell types; and (3) observing the required concomitant presence of both T and B lymphocytes during the induction process and proving that the induced Fc epsilon R+ cells are indeed B cells of the Leu-12+ phenotype by fluorescence analysis. The ability to induce expression of Fc epsilon RII molecules on human lymphocytes exposed to a mitogen such as PWM requires special technical attention to the method of preparation and isolation of human lymphoid cells from peripheral blood. This in vitro system for up regulating Fc epsilon RII expression on human lymphocytes should provide us with an important new tool to analyze the participation of such cells in the regulatory mechanisms controlling the human IgE antibody system. PMID- 2525429 TI - [Digoxin receptors in myocardial membranes in pressure loading of the left ventricle and in experimental thyrotoxicosis]. PMID- 2525430 TI - Coronary pressure-flow relations in hypertensive left ventricular hypertrophy. Comparison of intact autoregulation with physiological and pharmacological vasodilation in the dog. AB - Coronary pressure-flow relations during autoregulated and vasodilated flow states were compared between eight dogs with renovascular hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy and 12 normal dogs. Each relation was constructed from serial steady-state measurements of end-diastolic coronary pressure and flow during perfusion of the circumflex artery by an extracorporeal circuit at controlled diastolic pressures of 20-200 mm Hg. Autoregulated pressure-flow relations were compared at three levels of myocardial oxygen demand: resting, high (dobutamine 10 micrograms/kg/min), and low (propranolol 2.5 micrograms/kg/min). Autoregulatory capacity was assessed by calculation of closed loop flow gain. At each level of myocardial oxygen demand, the lower limit of autoregulation occurred at higher perfusion pressures in the hypertrophy group (rest 65 +/- 3, high 92 +/- 4, low 66 +/- 4 mm Hg) than in the normal group (rest 53 +/- 2, p less than 0.05; high 75 +/- 5, p less than 0.05; low 51 +/- 3 mm Hg) (p less than 0.05). Maximum autoregulatory gain was similar in the normal and hypertrophy groups during resting and low myocardial oxygen demand but was reduced in the hypertrophy group during dobutamine studies. When coronary flow decreased below the lower limit of autoregulation, systolic shortening was reduced in both normal and hypertrophy groups. However, as the autoregulatory limits were at higher pressures in the hypertrophy group, shortening in this group deteriorated at perfusion pressures that did not affect the normal heart. Coronary pressure-flow relations during physiological (peak hyperemia after 15 second flow occlusion) and pharmacologica (intracoronary adenosine 400 micrograms/min) vasodilation was curvilinear and fitted by quadratic regression. During hyperemic vasodilation, maximal conductance per unit mass of myocardium was less in the hypertrophy group over a wide range of perfusion pressures. At a diastolic perfusion pressure of 80 mm Hg, maximum conductance was 4.6 +/- 0.5 ml/min/100 g/mm Hg in the normal group and 3.4 +/- 0.4 ml/min/100 g/mm Hg (p less than 0.05) in the hypertrophy group. Intracoronary adenosine elicited further vasodilation in both groups, but maximum conductance remained less in the hypertrophy group (8.5 +/- 1.7 ml/min/100 g/mm Hg at a perfusion pressure of 80 mm Hg) than in the normal group (13.5 +/- 2.0 ml/min/100 g/mm Hg) (p less than 0.05). Maximal coronary flow reserve is reduced in left ventricular hypertrophy, with a consequent shift of the lower limit of autoregulation to higher perfusion pressures. Thus, as coronary perfusion pressure is decreased, coronary flow and myocardial shortening become impaired at higher PMID- 2525431 TI - Ventricles as a major site of atrial natriuretic factor synthesis and release in cardiomyopathic hamsters with heart failure. AB - The aim of the present study was to correlate in cardiomyopathic hamsters with congestive heart failure the levels of atrial and ventricular atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) messenger RNA (mRNA) with immunoreactive ANF (IR-ANF) plasma levels and the relative amount of IR-ANF released by the whole heart versus isolated ventricles in the Langendorff preparation. High-performance liquid chromatography analysis of the forms of ANF present in plasma and in the Langendorff effluent of whole heart versus isolated ventricles was also performed. As previously found for cardiac IR-ANF, the levels of ANF mRNA decreased gradually in atria and increased in an analogous fashion in ventricles with the severity of congestive heart failure. Plasma IR-ANF levels (C-terminal) were more elevated in moderate than in severe congestive heart failure, as were the IR-ANF levels in the Langendorff effluent of the whole heart. On the contrary, the effluent of isolated ventricles from animals in severe heart failure yielded more IR-ANF than that from hamsters in moderate heart failure. Thus, while the isolated ventricles from controls contributed 35.8% of IR-ANF released by the whole heart, ventricles from hamsters in moderate heart failure contributed 17.5%, and those from hamsters in severe heart failure contributed 73.9%. These results indicate that atrial cardiocytes contribute more IR-ANF than their ventricular counterpart in moderate heart failure and that ventricles are a major source of plasma IR-ANF in severe heart failure. Analysis of IR-ANF from plasma and the Langendorff effluent from whole hearts and isolated ventricles revealed that the ventricles are the major source of the propeptide (and of its cleaved products) found in the circulation of cardiomyopathic hamsters. These results suggest that ANF synthesis and secretion do not increase conjointly in atria but do increase in ventricles during congestive heart failure. PMID- 2525433 TI - Cholinergic maturation and SCH 23390-induced catalepsy in the male rat pup. AB - The cataleptogenic effects of the selective dopamine D1 receptor antagonist, SCH 23390, increased between 13 and 17 days of age in male pups. Seventeen- and 21 day-old pups showed equivalent catalepsy. Scopolamine blocked SCH 23390-induced catalepsy in 21-day-old pups but had little effect in 13-day-old pups. The development and cholinergic sensitivity of SCH 23390-induced catalepsy are similar to those seen after D2 or mixed D1/D2 receptor blockade. Cholinergic maturation appears to be an important component in the development of adult-like catalepsy, and the nature of a D1-acetylcholine interaction mediating catalepsy remains to be determined. PMID- 2525432 TI - Myocardial energetics in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy. Influence of nitroprusside and enoximone. AB - Cardiotonic agents influence myocardial energy consumption by vasodilation, which may reduce energy demand, and by inotropism, which may increase it. To distinguish between the two effects, myocardial oxygen consumption must be analyzed in relation to its hemodynamic determinants. The coupling of myocardial oxygen consumption with its determinants was investigated in 22 patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (NYHA Class II and III). Predicted myocardial oxygen consumption by the pressure-work index, the Bretschneider index, and the pressure-volume area correlated moderately with measured myocardial oxygen consumption (r = 0.57, p less than 0.001; r = 0.52, p less than 0.005; and r = 0.63, p less than 0.001). Multiple regression analysis, including left ventricular peak systolic wall stress, systolic stress-time integral, pressure volume work, maximum rate of left ventricular pressure rise, and mean velocity of circumferential fiber shortening indicated that systolic stress-time integral is the major determinant of myocardial oxygen consumption (r = 0.75, p less than 0.001) in these patients. Enoximone, a phosphodiesterase inhibitor, has an inotropic and a vasodilating effect. To investigate the inotropic portion of the energy cost of this phosphodiesterase inhibitor, the influence of enoximone on myocardial oxygen consumption and systolic stress-time integral was compared with the effects of nitroprusside, which is a vasodilator only. Nitroprusside (10 patients) and enoximone (12 patients) reduced left ventricular systolic stress time integral from 109 +/- 22 to 71 +/- 21 (p less than 0.005) and from 104 +/- 23 to 42 +/- 10 (p less than 0.001) 10(3) dynes.sec/cm2, respectively. Myocardial oxygen consumption decreased from 159 +/- 44 to 112 +/- 23 (p less than 0.005) and from 134 +/- 28 to 109 +/- 21 (p less than 0.001) microliters/beat/100 g, respectively. In both groups, there was a significant correlation between the decrease in myocardial oxygen consumption and the decrease in systolic stress time integral. The slopes of the respective linear regression lines were significantly different (1.27 for nitroprusside and 0.51 nl.cm2/100 g.dynes.sec for enoximone, p less than 0.05), indicating a smaller decrease of myocardial oxygen consumption for a given decrease of stress-time integral with enoximone. Applying the pressure-work index or the pressure-volume area instead of systolic stress-time integral yielded comparable results. Thus, vasodilation reduces myocardial oxygen consumption in proportion to the reduction of stress-time integral. With enoximone, the energy-saving effect of vasodilation is counteracted in part by the increased energy d PMID- 2525434 TI - The lead program at CPRI. AB - A lead (Pb) screening program in operation at CPRI in London, Ontario, since 1977 involves simultaneous measurement of blood Pb and erythrocyte protoporphyrin (EP) in a randomized population of physically and/or mentally handicapped children and adolescents on admission, discharge and during outpatient visits. This 11-year study has yielded a large database for computerized evaluation. Based upon log normal transformation of data obtained from the admission and outpatient groups, the normal curve yielded a mean and standard deviation (SD) for blood Pb of 0.36 +/- 0.27 mumol/L (n = 4188). This fosters a downward revision of the upper reference limit to 0.89 mumol/L (95% confidence level). The overall mean for EP was 0.35 +/- 0.37 mumol/L and suggests an upper reference limit of 1.09 mumol/L. The direct correlation between annual means of blood Pb and EP retained its significance (r = 0.80; P less than 0.004). For both blood Pb and EP, there was no significant difference in values between admissions (n = 1455), discharges (n = 1310) and outpatient visits (n = 2963). Only in the case of blood Pb was the overall mean value of males (n = 3822) higher (0.46 +/- 0.34 mumol/L) than that of females (0.39 +/- 0.25 mumol/L; n = 1906), but by t-test the difference was not significant. Although annual means of both blood Pb and EP were highest in 1978 and 79 and lowest in 1987, there was no significant difference between any two years.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525436 TI - The in-vitro inhibition of rat alloantigen presentation by immunotoxins- implications for allografting. AB - The removal of graft interstitial dendritic cells (IDC) prior to transplantation into a recipient has been shown to improve graft survival in a number of experimental studies. We report the in-vitro properties of two immunotoxins (IT) which could be used to deplete graft IDC when administered ex vivo by hypothermic perfusion in an experimental rat transplantation model. Ricin A chain (RAC) IT targeted at either class II major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules or leukocyte common antigens (LCA) were prepared. These IT had similar equilibrium constants, binding kinetics and inhibiting activity of cell-free protein synthesis. IT cytotoxicity was assessed by inhibition of alloantigen presentation by targeted low density spleen cells (LDSC) in a one way mixed lymphocyte culture (MLC). When LDSC were hypothermically incubated for 2 h with IT only the anti class II MHC IT inhibited the MLC and the maximum inhibition depended on the cell allotypes. The inhibition was increased to almost 100% when chloroquine was incorporated throughout the culture period. PMID- 2525435 TI - Concomitant augmentation of CD4+ CD45R+ suppressor/inducer subset and diminution of CD4+ CDw29+ helper/inducer subset during rush hyposensitization in hymenoptera venom allergy. AB - A longitudinal study of patients undergoing rush hyposensitization by honey-bee or yellow jacket venom revealed significant changes of the immunophenotypes until the optimal dose was reached, and a progressive reversion to pre-treatment values in the following months. The activation markers CD23 on B cells and CD25 (IL-2 receptor) on T and B lymphocytes decreased. Although there was little variation of the major CD4 and CD8 lymphocyte populations, CD45R+ cells increased whilst CDw29+ lymphocytes diminished. This inverse variation was associated with a peak of CD4+ CD45R+ cells with concomitant decrease in CD4+ CDw29+ cells showing an inverse effect of the treatment on the reciprocal subsets of CD4 lymphocytes. This indicates a shift in the suppressor/inducer to helper/inducer cell ratio early during rush hyposensitization which may also suggest reversion into a less mature stage of CD4+ cells, associated with the transition from a highly allergen reactive state to progressive unresponsiveness. PMID- 2525437 TI - T lymphocyte subset abnormalities and HLA antigens in scleroderma (systemic sclerosis). AB - Studies of T lymphocyte subsets were carried out in a group of 50 scleroderma patients, of whom 46 were also HLA phenotyped. The total lymphocyte count was depressed in 22 patients, and CD4 (helper cells) numbers were normal. CD8 (suppressor-cytotoxic) cells were reduced in 27 patients, and the CD4/CD8 number ratio increased above normal in three additional patients, resulting in 30 patients being classified as CD8-deficient. In the 46 patients HLA phenotyped, DRw8 was significantly increased in the entire patient group, but when the patients were subdivided into CD8-deficient (n = 29) and CD8-normal (n = 17), the increase in DRw8 was confined to the CD8-deficient patients. B18 was also increased in patients with limited sclerosis, while DR4 and DRw53 were significantly decreased and DR5 significantly increased in patients with more extensive skin sclerosis. These findings suggest that scleroderma is a heterogeneous condition and that this heterogeneity is reflected in different HLA profiles in patients subtyped according to their clinical profile and subpopulations of T cells. PMID- 2525438 TI - Lymphocyte sensitization to Aspergillus fumigatus in allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis. AB - Peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) proliferation induced by an extract of Aspergillus fumigatus (AF) was examined in patients with allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA), all of whom had an immediate skin prick test reaction (SPT) and increased RAST binding to AF, and, for comparison, in individuals without immediate SPT reactivity or increased RAST binding to AF. The proliferative responses of PBMC from the ABPA patients were greater than those from the comparison donors. A substantial proportion of the comparison group, however, showed evidence of a specific immune response to AF, with AF-specific IgG measured by ELISA and specific lymphoproliferative responses. AF-responsive T cell lines and T cell clones were established from both ABPA patients and IgE negative individuals. These clones, of helper/inducer (CD4+) phenotype, showed antigenic specificity and MHC restriction. The stimulating antigen was determined for four of six clones derived from a skin-prick-test-negative individual, and found to be of Mr 18 kD, possibly the major allergen, 'Ag 3'. ABPA patients showed a marked diminution of the proliferative response during disease exacerbation. PMID- 2525439 TI - Effects of selective depletion of L3T4+ T-lymphocytes on herpes simplex virus encephalitis. AB - The L3T4 surface molecule defines a subset of murine lymphocytes which are homologous to CD4+ lymphocytes in humans, and are functionally characterized as "helper/inducer" cells. To determine the role of helper/inducer lymphocytes in the host defense against herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) encephalitis, we utilized a monoclonal antibody to selectively deplete L3T4+ lymphocytes from BALB/c mice prior to experimental HSV infection. Susceptibility to HSV was only minimally increased by the depletion of L3T4+ cells, although mice receiving anti L3T4 were profoundly immunosuppressed; splenic lymphocytes did not respond to stimulation by virus antigen in vitro, and L3T4+ lymphocyte-depleted mice failed to produce antibodies to HSV-1. However, mice receiving anti-L3T4 had a prolonged increase in natural killer cell activity following HSV infection as compared to controls. These data demonstrate that L3T4+ lymphocytes contribute minimally to host resistance to acute neural HSV infection, even though elimination of these lymphocytes markedly inhibits the genesis of immune responses. PMID- 2525440 TI - The increase of non-MHC-restricted cytotoxic cells (gamma/delta-TCR-bearing T cells or NK cells) and the abnormal differentiation of B cells in Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome. AB - The objective of this study was to analyze the configuration of the lymphocytes in Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome (WAS) by studying the surface antigens from nine cases using dual-color immunofluorescence analysis. All the patients showed the increase of non-MHC-restricted cytotoxic cells, namely CD3+ WT31- delta TCS1+ (gamma/delta-T cell receptor (TCR)-bearing cells) and/or CD16+ natural killer cells. The gamma/delta-TCR+ cells of WAS, however, were unique since they did not express CD5, which is present on ordinary gamma/delta-TCR+ cells. A reduced number of CD4+ cells and an increased percentage of CD11b+ Leu7+ cells within a CD8+ subset were observed in all cases. With regard to B cell subpopulations, most cases showed reduced Fc epsilon R2-bearing B cells, despite an elevated serum IgE. PMID- 2525442 TI - Electrophysiology, pacing, and arrhythmia. PMID- 2525441 TI - Water immersion-induced alterations of plasma atrial natriuretic peptide level and its relationship to the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and vasopressin secretion in acute and chronic renal failure. AB - Water immersion (WI)-induced alterations of circulating plasma volume (PV), plasma renin activity (PRA), plasma levels of aldosterone (Ald), vasopressin (AVP) and atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) were examined in 12 patients with noninflammatory acute renal failure (ARF) at the anuric/oliguric phase, in 20 hemodialyzed patients with chronic renal failure and in 15 healthy subjects. Patients with acute and chronic renal failure showed significantly elevated basal ANP concentrations (138.67 +/- 12.88 and 295.8 +/- 21.87 pg/ml, respectively) as compared with normals (74.54 +/- 4.1 pg/ml) and significantly elevated PRA (20.85 +/- 3.24 and 6.60 +/- 0.94 ng/ml/h, respectively versus 2.33 +/- 0.31 ng/ml/h), plasma levels of Ald (16.11 +/- 1.26 and 18.11 +/- 1.58 ng/dl, respectively versus 12.71 +/- 1.03 ng/dl) and AVP (6.95 +/- 0.62 and 6.08 +/- 0.54 pg/ml, respectively versus 2.68 +/- 0.48 pg/ml). After 2 hrs of WI a significant decline of PRA, Ald and AVP but an increase of ANP was noted in all examined groups. The absolute WI-induced increase in plasma ANP was significantly less marked in uremic patients than in normals. The endocrine profile of patients with ARF differed only quantitatively from that of patients with CRF both under basal and WI conditions. WI was followed by a significant increase of PV which was significantly more marked in patients with ARF (+ 16.42 +/- 1.73%) than in CRF (10.57 +/- 0.37%) and in normals (+11.3 +/- 1.6%). Only in healthy subjects a significant correlation was found between WI-induced changes of PV and ANP, PRA and Ald, and between PRA and AVP.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525443 TI - Peripheral percutaneous transluminal laser angioplasty in humans: in vitro investigations and clinical results with a novel laser catheter system. AB - Percutaneous transluminal laser angioplasty has become an accepted method of treatment of peripheral arterial occlusive disease. To minimize the risk of arterial wall perforation during laser angioplasty, a novel laser catheter system was developed. In 113 obliterated postmortem human arteries the perforation rate was 0.9%. The mean degree of stenosis was reduced from 89 +/- 9% before, to 53 +/ 11% after laser irradiation. Clinical Nd:YAG laser angioplasty was performed in 19 patients suffering from peripheral arterial occlusive disease. The Fontaine stage improved in 16 patients; in no case did it deteriorate. The mean degree of stenosis was reduced by laser angioplasty from 91 +/- 12% to 31 +/- 19%. A further reduction down to 13 +/- 18% was achieved by subsequent percutaneous transluminal balloon angioplasty. The systolic Doppler ankle-arm pressure gradient was improved from 0.58 +/- 0.26 to 0.89 +/- 0.25. In 7 patients microembolisms were detectable on the final angiogram. There was no acute reocclusion and no perforation. Within a follow-up period of 12 months, four restenoses were diagnosed by digital subtraction angiography. On average, the Doppler index was 0.75 +/- 0.32. PMID- 2525445 TI - Studies on the specificity of the immunohistopathological changes of the salivary glands in Sjogren's syndrome. AB - Recently focal lip salivary gland lymphocytic infiltrates, identical to those found in Sjogren's syndrome, has been described in myasthenia gravis, bone marrow transplant recipients and various connective tissue diseases, in the latter conditions without relation to the salivary gland function. In the bone marrow transplant recipients, the lymphocytic infiltrates were shown to be potentially reversible. The findings are summarized, the relation between histopathological alterations and organ functions and the diagnostic specificity of focal lymphocytic infiltrates in lip salivary glands are discussed. PMID- 2525444 TI - Ventricular reconstruction with vascular prosthesis after aneurysmectomy. Ability to defibrillate and utilize the automatic internal cardioverter defibrillator. AB - Adjunct surgical procedures for patients with malignant ventricular tachyarrhythmias who require the automatic internal cardioverter defibrillator include aortocoronary artery bypass graft surgery, valvular repair or replacement, subendocardial resection, and aneurysmectomy. Ventricular reconstruction and its compatibility with the AICD are described in a 64-year-old man who required treatment of refractory ventricular tachycardia as well as resection of a large anteroapical aneurysm. Reconstruction using a dacron patch preserved left ventricular geometry but did not adversely affect the ability to defibrillate and allowed successful utilization of the automatic defibrillator. PMID- 2525446 TI - Massive lymphoma of the mediastinum, chest wall, and axilla. PMID- 2525447 TI - Single-dose and steady-state pharmacokinetics of doxazosin given in combination with chlorothiazide to hypertensive subjects. AB - The pharmacokinetics of doxazosin were determined in hypertensive subjects after a single dose of 1 mg, and at steady-state while receiving doses of 1, 2, 4 and 8 mg of the drug daily. Chlorothiazide 500 mg once daily was administered as additional therapy throughout the study. After a single dose doxazosin was rapidly absorbed, with peak plasma drug concentrations (Cmax) occurring after 2.1 +/- 0.4 hours. The elimination half-life in plasma was 10.7 +/- 1.2 hours. These parameters remained essentially unchanged during maintenance administration of doxazosin at each of the dose levels. Calculations of Cmax and area under the concentration-time curve (AUC0----infinity) indicated that the pharmacokinetic disposition of the drug remained linear over the dose range 1 to 8 mg. PMID- 2525448 TI - [Familial occurrence of leukemia. Cytogenetic considerations apropos of 2 cases]. AB - The authors describe a case of family leukemia: an acute myeloid leukemia preceded by Pelger's anomaly in a 77 year old brother and a chronic myeloid leukemia chromosome Ph + in a 71 years old sister, sixteen years after the first one. The authors formulate a hypothesis that both haematologic diseases may have in common a mistake of transcription caused by an anomalous m RNA. PMID- 2525449 TI - [Therapy of hyperlipidemia. Clinical experience with clinofibrate]. AB - The results are reported of a double-blind crossover trial intended to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of a new aryloxy derivative compared to placebo. Twenty patients with hyperlipidemia not responding to dietary treatment received either one capsule of the active substance or of placebo (200 mg) three times daily for 16 weeks. Total cholesterol, HDL and triglycerides showed the following changes at the of the treatment period: -11%, +6% and -48% with clinofibrate and 1%, -4% and -1% during control periods. The substance was well tolerated; only in one patient clinofibrate was withdrawn as a precaution in view of the onset of medium severe diarrhea and abdominal pain. PMID- 2525450 TI - [Diphosphonates. Current trends and therapeutic prospects]. AB - Diphosphonates are compounds characterized by a P-C-P bond. They are thus analogs of pyrophosphate and can be useful for treating several bone diseases. The authors synthetically review the mechanism of action of these drugs and their most important clinical applications. The authors finally mention the interesting therapeutic possibilities deriving from the development of new members of this class. PMID- 2525451 TI - [Aneurysms of the abdominal aorta. Clinical evaluation and therapeutic criteria]. AB - On the basis of their own experience and of the most recent acquisitions published in the literature, the authors report on aneurysms of the abdominal aorta which are observed with increasing frequency. After discussing the etiopathogenesis, they dwell on the principal clinical problems of the disease, especially those concerning early diagnosis. Thanks to new acquisitions in vascular surgery, early detection may in fact allow of highly satisfactory therapeutic results. PMID- 2525452 TI - [Magnetic resonance in the evaluation of pathology of the uterus and ovary]. PMID- 2525453 TI - Dental care of HIV-infected patients: attitudes and behavior among Danish dentists. AB - The aims of the study were to study Danish dentists' attitudes and behavior with regard to providing dental care to HIV-infected persons and to look for explanatory variables for the dentists' attitudes and behavior. Two hundred and twenty-eight Danish dentists responded to a questionnaire on dental treatment of HIV-infected patients and related problems (response rate: 91.2%). The dentists' attitudes differed a great deal from the current national policy as to where HIV infected patients should be treated and with regard to the possibility of being tested for HIV anonymously. 64% of the dentists favored the idea of referral of HIV-infected patients to special dental clinics for routine dental treatment, and 93% disapproved of the idea that infected individuals themselves should decide whether they wish to inform their dentist or doctor of seropositivity. Older dentists were more reluctant to treat HIV-infected individuals than younger. Other differences with regard to a number of demographic variables were not found. No difference in attitude towards HIV-infected persons was found when compared to that towards HBV-infected individuals. The reluctance towards treatment of HIV-infected persons was present irrespective of any subsidy for an extra cost for treatment of HIV-infected patients. PMID- 2525454 TI - Complement and its receptor: a physiological transport system for circulating immune complexes. PMID- 2525455 TI - Platelets and platelet-derived cationic proteins in human and experimental glomerular pathology. PMID- 2525457 TI - In vitro phenotypic and functional characterization of human pigment epithelial cell lines. AB - We have characterized human retinal pigment epithelium (HRPE) for the expression of cell surface antigens. Primary HRPE cultures, established cell lines, and freshly brushed pigment epithelial cells all express HLA-ABC but not HLA-DR antigens. However, both primary cultures and established cell lines can be induced by gamma interferon stimulation to express HLA-DR in a dose dependent manner. Only freshly brushed HRPE cells express Fc, and no cells demonstrated the presence of C3b. Our results show that HRPE cells change in culture, as reflected by the loss of Fc receptors, but retain the ability to synthesize HLA-ABC spontaneously and HLA-DR upon stimulation. PMID- 2525458 TI - Suppression of CML reactivity by non-T cells from miniature swine tolerant of a class I mismatched renal allograft. PMID- 2525456 TI - Renal angioplasty: morphological and pathophysiological aspects. PMID- 2525459 TI - Short- and long-term complications of coronary angioplasty. PMID- 2525461 TI - [Treatment of acute iliac artery occlusion by catheter lysis, catheter dilatation and implantation of a new kind of metallic vascular endoprosthesis]. AB - Methods of interventional radiology have achieved a significant importance for the treatment of acute iliac artery occlusion if either local or general clinical controindications preexclude routine surgical means of vessel repair. The newly developed balloon-expandable metal mesh vascular endoprosthesis is shown to accomplish percutaneously a definitive reconstruction of heavily diseased iliac artery vessel segments which very well compares with the hemodynamic and morphologic aspect of surgical treatment such as thrombectomy combined with TEA or bypass surgery. Both, short and long-term results one year after the implantation of two balloon-expandable metallic vascular stents reflect a much higher efficacy in functional treatment of iliac artery related claudication than a routine percutaneous transluminal angioplasty alone. In addition, it is shown that local lysis based on a standard protocol of selective intrathrombus instillation of urokinase helps to clear totally clogged iliac arteries. PMID- 2525460 TI - Delivery of albuterol and ipratropium bromide from two nebulizer systems in chronic stable asthma. Efficacy and pulmonary deposition. AB - Bronchodilator responses to both nebulized albuterol (salbutamol) and ipratropium bromide and aerosol delivery to the tracheobronchial tree have been assessed in eight patients with chronic stable asthma (mean baseline FEV1, 50 percent; reversibility greater than 20 percent). Two commercially available nebulizer systems were used, namely, a Turret nebulizer operated at a compressed gas flow rate of 12 L/min (droplet MMD, 3.3 mu) and an Inspiron nebulizer driven at 6 L/min (MMD, 7.7 mu). Albuterol was given as doses of 250 micrograms, 250 micrograms, 500 micrograms, and 1,000 micrograms (cumulative dose, 2 mg) and ipratropium bromide as doses of 50 micrograms, 50 micrograms, 100 micrograms, and 200 micrograms (cumulative dose, 400 micrograms) at intervals of 35 minutes. For albuterol, bronchodilatation was significantly (p less than 0.05) greater at all dosage levels with the Turret. For ipratropium, bronchodilatation was similar for both nebulizers. Measurements of aerosol deposition using 99mTc-labelled pentetic acid (diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid; DTPA) showed that 9.1 +/- 1.1 percent and 2.7 +/- 0.2 percent of the dose reached the lungs during nebulization to dryness for Turret and Inspiron, respectively (p less than 0.01); distribution within the lungs was similar for the two aerosols. Selection of nebulizer apparatus can influence delivery of aerosol and subsequent bronchodilator response to albuterol in patients with chronic stable asthma but is less important for aerosol delivery of ipratropium bromide in these patients. PMID- 2525462 TI - [Abnormal cellular immunity in rheumatoid arthritis]. PMID- 2525463 TI - [The mechanism of antihypertension and clinical application of atrial natriuretic factor]. PMID- 2525464 TI - [Inhibitor of the calmodulin-dependent reactions (R24571) blocks the calcium activation of potassium channels and does not affect the activity of Ca2+-pump in human erythrocytes]. PMID- 2525465 TI - [Identification of pro-opiomelanocortin in rat thymus and spleen using immunoblotting and the effect of adrenalectomy and haloperidol injection on the content of immunoreactive beta-endorphin in these organs]. PMID- 2525466 TI - [Chronic granulocytopenia as a main symptom of T gamma-lymphocytosis]. AB - Routine examination of a 60-year-old woman with long-lasting rheumatic complaints revealed a granulocytopenia in the differential blood count (1% stab cells, 3% segmented) with a normal total leucocyte count (4,200/microliters). It was caused by a lymphoproliferative disease of the granular lymphocytes, which may also be termed T gamma lymphocytosis because of the predominant phenotype. As the lymphocytosis in blood and bone marrow was of minor degree, the diagnosis was confirmed only by immunocytochemical and molecular-genetic demonstration of clonal expansion of the T gamma lymphocytes. The granulocytopenia gradually became more marked and recurrent infections were noted. Treatment with cyclosporin and cortisone brought about remission of the granulocytopenia. PMID- 2525467 TI - Trait anxiety, submaximal physical exercise and blood androgens. AB - This study evaluates the relationship between trait anxiety and both androgen and gonadotrophic hormone levels at rest and during severe physical exercise. Twelve volunteers were selected among 160 untrained male collegial students and classified as anxious (N = 6) or non-anxious (N = 6) subjects according to their scores on three trait-anxiety tests (STAI, IPAT, 16 PF). Serum delta 4-androgen (testosterone and delta 4-androstenedione), delta 5-androgen (DHEA and DHEA-SO4) and gonadotrophin (LH and FSH) concentrations were measured by radioimmunoassay before, during and after 20 minutes of intensive bicycle exercise (80% of maximal heart rate). Results indicate significantly lower serum delta 4-androgens in anxious subjects before exercise. However, for each subject and irrespective of his anxiety level, all measured serum androgen concentrations increased significantly during exercise, although delta 4-androstene-dione remained lower in anxious subjects than in non-anxious ones. Serum LH concentrations (but not FSH) were significantly higher in anxious subjects throughout the observation periods. However, exercise induced in each subject a significant decrease in the serum level of both gonadotrophic hormones. The results suggest that trait anxiety level may constitute an important factor that affects both pre-exercise and exercise serum androgen concentrations in untrained subjects. PMID- 2525468 TI - Stimulation by insulin of glycolysis in cultured hepatocytes is attenuated by extracellular ATP and puromycin through purine-dependent inhibition of phosphofructokinase 2 activation. AB - Activation of glycolysis by insulin in cultured rat hepatocytes is preceded by an activation of phosphofructokinase 2 (PFK 2) and subsequent rise of the fructose 2,6-bisphosphate [Fru(2,6)P2] level. Extracellular addition of ATP or puromycin prevented the hormonal effect on glycolysis. The mechanism through which the purines abolished glycolytic stimulation was investigated. 1. 50 microM ATP completely prevented the 3-5-fold insulin-dependent increase of glycolysis, irrespective of whether the cells initially possessed a low or a high Fru(2,6)P2 content. 50 microM puromycin prevented the stimulation of glycolysis by insulin only in cells whose initial Fru(2,6)P2 levels were low and had to be increased by insulin prior to the increase in glycolysis. It did not antagonize the action of insulin cells with initial high Fru(2,6)P2 content. 2. ATP exerted effects on its own; it decreased initially high Fru(2,6)P2 levels by 95% within 10 min and decreased the basal glycolytic rate by 60%. Half-maximal effects on the Fru(2,6)P2 level were obtained with about 25 microM ATP or 15 microM adenosine 5'[beta, gamma-methylene]triphosphate. ADP and adenosine-5-[gamma thio]triphosphate were as effective as ATP, whereas 100 microM adenosine 5'[alpha, beta-methylene]triphosphate elicited no effect. Puromycin neither decreased high Fru(2,6)P2 levels nor inhibited basal glycolysis. 3. Extracellular ATP (100 microM) led to inhibition of the active form of PFK 2. Intracellular levels of Glc6P, citrate, ATP, ADP and AMP were increased by extracellular ATP, the phosphoenolpyruvate content was decreased, Fru6P and glycerol 3-phosphate levels stayed constant. Puromycin did not inhibit PFK 2. 4. Both puromycin and ATP prevented the insulin-dependent rise of the Fru(2,6)P2 level, they abolished the activation of PFK 2 by the hormone. Puromycin did not block the accumulation of Fru(2,6)P2 provoked by glucose addition; ATP also antagonized the glucose dependent increase. 5. 100 microM ATP elevated the cAMP-dependent protein kinase activity ratio from 0.1 to 0.38 and increased the level of inositol trisphosphate by 16-fold within 5 min, whereas puromycin was without effect on either level. It is concluded that the two purines block the insulin effect on glycolysis by preventing the hormone increasing the Fru(2,6)P2 level. The mode of action, however, seems to be different: ATP antagonizes insulin action in that it leads to increased inhibition of PFK 2 whereas puromycin prevents the activation of PFK 2 by insulin. PMID- 2525469 TI - Endocrine and immune effects of melatonin therapy in metastatic cancer patients. AB - Melatonin, the most important indole hormone produced by the pineal gland, appears to inhibit tumor growth; moreover, altered melatonin secretion has been reported in cancer patients. Despite these data, the possible use of melatonin in human neoplasms remains to be established. The aim of this clinical trial was to evaluate the therapeutic, immunological and endocrine effects of melatonin in patients with metastatic solid tumor, who did not respond to standard therapies. The study was carried out on 14 cancer patients (colon, six; lung, three; pancreas, two; liver, two; stomach, one). Melatonin was given intramuscularly at a daily dose of 20 mg at 3.00 p.m., followed by a maintenance period in an oral dose of 10 mg daily in patients who had a remission, stable disease or an improvement in PS. Before and after the first 2 months of therapy, GH, somatomedin-C, beta-endorphin, melatonin blood levels and lymphocyte subpopulations were evaluated. A partial response was achieved in one case with cancer of the pancreas, with a duration of 18+ months; moreover, six patients had stable disease, while the other eight progressed. An evident improvement in PS was obtained in 8/14 patients. In patients who did not progress, T4/T8 mean ratio was significantly higher after than before melatonin therapy, while it decreased in patients who progressed. On the contrary, hormonal levels were not affected by melatonin administration. This study would suggest that melatonin may be of value in untreatable metastatic cancer patients, particularly in improving their PS and quality of life; moreover, based on its effects on the immune system, melatonin could be tested in association with other antitumor treatments. PMID- 2525470 TI - Tolerability of the synthetic retinoid Fenretinide (HPR). AB - Fenretinide, N-(4-hydroxyphenyl)retinamide (HPR), is a synthetic retinoid which has been proven effective in inducing cell differentiation and in inhibiting carcinogen induced mammary tumors in rodents. Because of its efficacy and low toxicity in animals, HPR has been proposed for chemopreventive evaluation in humans. Thus, a randomized trial has been conducted to select a dose which can be administered over a lengthy period of time and with acceptable toxicity. The retinoid was administered orally to patients already operated on for breast cancer in daily doses of 100, 200 and 300 mg for 6 months and subsequently at 200 mg for another 6 months. No acute toxicity was found. Dermatological toxicity was minimal and no liver function abnormalities were observed. Nausea and headaches were infrequent and always mild. Menstrual irregularities were recorded with similar frequency in the treatment and placebo groups and appeared to be more age related than drug dependent. After 6 months of treatment one of 25 patients taking 300 mg HPR daily experienced impaired night vision, confirmed by the electroretinogram, and resolved by interruption of treatment. Because the 300 mg daily dose is possibly associated with impaired dark adaptation, the recommended dose for chemoprevention trials of HPR is 200 mg per day. PMID- 2525471 TI - Additive inhibitory effects of bromocryptine (CB-154) and medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) on dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA)-induced mammary tumors in the rat. AB - Treatment for 18 days of rats bearing dimethylbenz[a]anthracene-induced mammary tumors with the synthetic medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) or the inhibitor of prolactin secretion 2 alpha-bromocryptine (CB-154) inhibited total tumor area to 30 +/- 7% of the original volume. Combination of the two drugs, on the other hand, caused further inhibition to 10 +/- 5% of the pretreatment tumor area. The most striking effect of combination of the two drugs is a doubling of complete responses (no detectable tumor) from 30% when either drug was used alone to 60% in animals treated with the combination therapy. Both estradiol and progesterone receptors were further decreased when MPA was added to CB-154. The present data demonstrate that combination of the synthetic progestin MPA and the inhibitor of prolactin secrection CB-154 exerts maximal inhibitory effects on the growth of the DMBA-induced mammary tumor, the most widely used in vivo model of human breast cancer. PMID- 2525472 TI - Phase I study of oral doxifluridine using two schedules. PMID- 2525473 TI - Expression and regulation of erythrocyte auto-antibodies in mice following immunization with rat erythrocytes. AB - Mice immunized with intact rat red blood cells (RBC) developed serum auto antibodies (some of which were mouse specific) to the RBC membrane components spectrin and antigens of 100 and 81 kDa as shown by Western blotting and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay as well as RBC surface-bound autoantibodies detected by the Coombs' test. In order to discover whether these autoantibodies were induced and controlled in similar or different ways, mice were challenged with a variety of rat and mouse RBC preparations. In addition, the ability of recipients given spleen cells from the above donors to generate autoantibody responses to intact rat RBC was measured. It was found that all the autoantibodies were induced in mice challenged with rat RBC ghosts but none following immunization with butanol-extracted rat RBC ghosts or intact mouse RBC. By contrast, mice injected with mouse RBC ghosts made autoantibodies to spectrin and to the 100-kDa band. Spleen cells from mice primed with intact rat RBC, rat RBC ghosts or butanol-extracted rat RBC ghosts curtailed Coombs' autoantibody production of recipient mice challenged with intact rat RBC. Serum from recipients of spleen cells primed with intact rat RBC or the butanol extract generally failed to react with rat or mouse spectrin or with the 81-kDa band, although antibody was detected to the rat 100-kDa band. Recipients of rat RBC ghost-primed spleen cells produced antibody to rat and mouse spectrin and to rat 100-kDa band but not to mouse 100-kDa or rat or mouse 81-kDa bands. Occasionally, suppression of antibody to the rat-specific 38-kDa band was observed in recipients of intact rat RBC primed spleen cells. It is therefore suggested that regulation of cross-reactive and mouse-specific autoantibodies as well as rat-specific antibodies occurs in an independent, determinant-specific manner. PMID- 2525474 TI - Dual role of macrophages in the suppression of interleukin 2 production and interleukin 2 receptor expression in trypanosome-infected mice. AB - Lymph node cells derived from T. brucei-infected mice fail to produce interleukin 2-(IL2) subsequent to a potent mitogenic trigger and actively suppress the capacity of normal cells to produce IL2 in co-culture experiments. The depletion of Thy-1+ cells does not decrease but rather increases the suppressive potential of the LNC derived from infected mice. A T cell-enriched nylon wool-nonadherent fraction, on the other hand, is not suppressive. The suppression of IL2 production is promptly restored by the addition of prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors suggesting a key role of the prostaglandin-producing macrophages. Our data indicate that such macrophages do not act indirectly through the induction of suppressor T cells, but rather directly interfere with the normal lymph node cells. In contrast to the essential role of prostaglandins in the impairment of IL2 production, these mediators are not involved in the suppression of IL2 receptor expression. Lymph node cells derived from Trypanosoma brucei-infected mice fail to produce interleukin 2 (IL2) subsequent to a potent mitogenic trigger and actively suppress the capacity of normal cells to produce IL2 in co-culture experiments. The depletion of Thy-1+ cells does not decrease but rather increases the suppressive potential of the LNC derived from infected mice. A T cell enriched nylon wool-nonadherent fraction, on the other hand, is not suppressive. The suppression of IL2 production is promptly restored by the addition of prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors suggesting a key role of the prostaglandin producing macrophages. Our data indicate that such macrophages do not act indirectly through the induction of suppressor T cells, but rather interfere directly with the normal lymph node cells. PMID- 2525475 TI - Antibodies against the T cell receptor/CD3 complex interfere with distinct intra thymic cell-cell interactions in vivo: correlation with arrest of T cell differentiation. AB - Postnatal treatment of mice with antibodies against the T cell receptor complex (TcR) prevents the differentiation of mature T cells in the thymic medulla without affecting the generation of most immature cortical thymocytes, thus interfering with a discrete stage of intra-thymic T cell differentiation at the cortex/medulla transition. This result has been interpreted as indicating a direct role of the TcR in the differentiation of immature to mature T cells, possibly via TcR-ligand interactions during direct cell-cell contact. Here we analyze the effect of anti-TcR (V beta 8 family) and anti-CD3 (epsilon chain) antibodies on distinct intra-thymic cell-cell interactions in vivo. We find that the maturation arrest of thymocytes correlates with a nearly complete abrogation of interactions of corresponding immature thymocyte with I-A/E+ cortical epithelial cells and I-A/E+ medullary dendritic cells, while preserving interactions with adherent I-A/E- macrophages. It is proposed that the blockade of thymocyte-epithelial cell recognition in the cortex by anti-TcR antibodies prevents the translocation of thymocytes into the medulla and their subsequent differentiation and selection, including interactions with dendritic cells. Interestingly, the anti-CD3 mAb treatment seems to spare the intra-thymic development of the CD3+, CD4-/CD8- T cell lineage. PMID- 2525476 TI - The methylation state of the T cell antigen receptor beta chain gene in subpopulations of mouse thymocytes. AB - Previous analyses of T cell receptor beta chain (TcR beta) genomic DNA from subsets of human peripheral blood leukocytes suggested that the TcR beta methylation pattern might reflect distinct differentiation pathways. The studies presented here, using murine thymocyte subsets, have specifically addressed the question of whether methylation of TcR beta DNA is related to the cellular maturity and type of TcR beta mRNA expressed in the different subsets. We have observed that the DNA isolated from either CD4+ or CD8+ thymocytes, the more mature thymic subsets, is less methylated in the TcR beta region than DNA isolated from the CD4-CD8-, double-negative population containing the more immature thymocytes. In addition, this pattern of DNA methylation is directly related to the ratio of 1.3-kb to 1.0-kb TcR beta mRNA seen in these different cell types. Although a quantitative difference in the level of TcR beta mRNA was noted for the two mature subsets, no qualitative difference in the ratio of 1.3 kb to 1.0-kb mRNA was detected. Furthermore, these DNA methylation patterns appear to be lineage related, because the TcR beta region of genomic DNA isolated from mouse macrophages is heavily methylated. PMID- 2525477 TI - Interleukin 4 strongly augments or inhibits DNA synthesis and differentiation of B-type chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells depending on the co-stimulatory activation and progression signals. AB - This study describes the opposing effects that interleukin (IL) 4 exerts on the B cell stimulatory factor (BSF-MP6) and IL 2-dependent proliferation and differentiation of cells of one selected B-type chronic lymphocytic leukemia cell clone (I83), which depend on the nature of the activation inducer. In I83 cells activated by a 1-h pulse of 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate, the BSF-MP6 dependent DNA synthesis was strongly enhanced by 50-100 U/ml of recombinant IL 4. Recombinant IL 2 stimulation was necessary only when a suboptimal dose of BSF-MP6 was used. The differentiation was also markedly enhanced by IL 4 as measured by quantitation of IgM secretion both at the population (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay analyses of the supernatant) and single-cell level (enzyme-linked immunospot technique), by morphological examination of the maturation stage and flow cytometric analysis of differentiation-associated surface antigens (CD11c, FMC7, PCA-1 and CD38). No Ig isotype switch was found. In contrast, DNA synthesis and differentiation of I83 cells, activated by Staphylococcus aureus Cowan strain I (SAC) and co-stimulated with BSF-MP6 plus IL 2, were strongly inhibited by IL 4, both when it was added simultaneously with SAC or after 2 days of SAC exposure. Analysis of the cell-cycle progression of SAC and BSF-MP6 plus IL 2 and IL 4-stimulated cells by acridine orange staining and fluorescence-activated cell sorter (FACS) analysis demonstrated an arrest of a minor cell population in G0 and a block of the transition of G1 cells to S phase. Neither the enhancing nor the inhibitory effect of IL 4 on the proliferation and differentiation of I83 cells was an indirect effect via IL 4-induced activation of contaminating T cells, monocytes or natural killer cells, as shown by experiments where these cell types were depleted by FACS sorting. Furthermore the expression of CD23 and CD25 was not inhibited by IL 4. The results thus demonstrate contrasting biological effects of IL 4 on clonal leukemic B cells depending on the nature of the activation and progression stimuli. This adds to the emerging picture of a very complex cytokine and cell-to-cell contact-mediated regulation of the activation and subsequent growth and/or differentiation of human B cells. PMID- 2525478 TI - Induction of T cell function via the gp33/27 activation inducer molecule (AIM) requires co-expression of the CD3/TcR complex. AB - Monoclonal antibodies specific for a dimeric cell surface activation antigen (gp33/27), preliminary designated as activation inducer molecule (AIM), are capable of triggering interleukin 2 (IL 2) synthesis, IL 2 receptor expression and T cell proliferation when used in conjunction with phorbol esters. We have analyzed the functional relationship between the AIM and the CD3/TcR-mediated activation pathways. Transient modulation of the CD3/TcR complex in the Jurkat cell line, as well as the stable loss of the CD3/TcR surface expression in variant subclones, determined an inhibition of the IL 2 production triggered by anti-AIM monoclonal antibody (mAb). In contrast, neither the surface expression of AIM nor the ability to respond to a Ca2+ ionophore were affected. Similar results were observed in peripheral blood T lymphocytes, detecting after CD3 modulation an inhibition of both the IL 2 synthesis and the proliferative response to anti-AIM mAb. Altogether our data indicate that the activation pathway triggered by anti-AIM mAb is functionally linked to the expression of the CD3/TcR complex in mature T cells. PMID- 2525479 TI - Early enhanced beta cell replication in normoglycaemic Wistar rats in response to a subdiabetogenic dose of streptozotocin. AB - The effect of a single subdiabetogenic dose of streptozotocin (30 mg/kg body weight) on pancreatic insulin content and relative beta cell volume has been studied in normoglycaemic Wistar rats treated with streptozotocin either 2, 3 or 14 days after STZ was given. A single intravenous injection of streptozotocin caused a significant reduction of pancreatic insulin content, islet and beta cell volume, accompanied by a significantly diminished islet insulin content. The glucose- and 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine-stimulated insulin secretion was significantly lower in islets obtained 2 or 3 days after streptozotocin injection compared with those of vehicle-treated controls. 14 days after streptozotocin injection, beta cell volume and pancreatic insulin content partially recovered. At this time islet insulin content and secretory responsiveness were enhanced compared to the early phase following streptozotocin administration. The incorporation of [3H] thymidine into islet DNA was significantly enhanced at day 2 or 3 after streptozotocin application, whereas at day 14 the DNA synthesis corresponded to values from control rats. Despite persisting normoglycaemia, the beta cell volume of streptozotocin-treated rats was only 52% vs. control values, thus indicating the unresponsiveness of residual beta cells to compensate spontaneously for the beta cell loss. PMID- 2525480 TI - Addition of the chromophore to rat rhodopsin is an early post-translational event. AB - Rat retinas were labeled either by intravitreal injection of [14C]leucine or by incubation with [3H]-leucine or [35S]-methionine. Subcellular fractions were prepared on linear sucrose gradients and rhodopsin was extracted with detergent and purified by chromatography on ConA-Sepharose. A fraction enriched in rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) and substantially free of rod outer segments (ROS) was found to contain a light-sensitive protein exhibiting the properties of rhodopsin on ConA-Sepharose or Agarose chromatography and on SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, as well as immunologically. Intravitreal injection of [3H] retinol also labeled the rhodopsin in the RER under conditions in which the rhodopsin in the ROS was not heavily labeled. Thus the chromophore appears to be attached to opsin shortly after the apoprotein is translated in the RER. PMID- 2525482 TI - Interferon receptors and their role in interferon action. AB - Interferon (IFN) proteins interact with cells through specific cell surface receptors, some of which have been purified and cloned. The alpha-IFNs and beta IFN bind to a common receptor (type I), whereas gamma-IFN binds to a separate receptor (type II). Both types of high-affinity receptors have been demonstrated on a variety of receptors and the ways in which IFNs may affect cellular physiology and gene expression is discussed. PMID- 2525484 TI - Effects of maximal breath holding on maximal expiratory flows. AB - Effects of breath holdings (BH) on bronchomotor tone, maintained until their breaking points, have been studied using maximal expiratory flow volume curves (MEFVC). BHs have been performed either at high lung volume (total lung capacity, EIBH) or at low lung volume (residual volume +250 ml, EEBH), an inspiratory manoeuvre immediately preceding the MEFVC. The results show that: (1) EIBH induces a significant increase of expiratory flow at 25% of FVC; (2) EEBH induces a significant and constant decrease of expiratory flows at 50% and 25% of FVC. The same modifications were recorded after inhalation of 400 micrograms of Fenoterol or 80 micrograms of Ipratropium bromide. The observed results are suggestive of mechanical effects of BH on expiratory flows. After EIBH airway hysteresis dominates over lung hysteresis, with opposite effects after EEBH. PMID- 2525483 TI - Different intrafusal fiber composition of spindles in sheep and pig extraocular muscles. AB - Histochemical profiles of intrafusal fibers have been examined in muscle spindles of extraocular muscles of sheep and pig. Results show that in the sheep the intrafusal content presents, in addition to chain fibers, at least one bag1 and one bag2 fiber, whereas in the pig almost all the spindles are one-bag-fiber [corrected] spindles. PMID- 2525481 TI - The cellular receptor of the alpha-beta interferons. AB - This is a selective review of recent trends in research on the cellular receptor for the alpha-beta interferons. It deals mainly with work published in the last three years (1985-88), and therefore mainly with receptors for the human interferons. The binding characteristics of several human alpha interferons are examined, and the importance of in vitro experimental models for establishing the relationship between receptor binding and the cellular response is emphasized. PMID- 2525485 TI - Subtype-specific increase in G-protein alpha-subunit mRNA by interleukin 1 beta. AB - The guanine nucleotide regulatory proteins (G-proteins) which are substrates for ADP-ribosylation by pertussis toxin (alpha i-1, alpha i-2, alpha i-3 and alpha o) transduce a variety of hormonal signals. Endothelial cells express mRNA for three alpha i subtypes although the level of alpha i-1 mRNA is very low. Interleukin 1 beta (IL 1 beta), a pleiotropic inflammatory mediator which stimulates a complex series of responses in human endothelial cells leading to increased coagulation and platelet adhesion, increases expression of one subtype of alpha i (alpha i-2) mRNA in human endothelial cells as determined by Northern blot analysis without affecting the level of mRNA for other alpha-subunits. These studies show that mRNA levels for alpha i subtypes are independently regulated, suggesting that there may be subtype specificity in the cell's requirements for the Gi class of signal-transducing proteins. PMID- 2525486 TI - Transforming growth factors beta 1 and beta 2 as well as milk growth factor decrease anti-CD3-induced proliferation of human lymphocytes without inhibiting the anti-CD3-mediated increase of [Ca2+]i and the activation of protein kinase C. AB - Porcine transforming growth factor 1 and 2 (pTGF-beta 1 and -beta 2) and milk growth factor (MGF) at 1 ng/ml significantly inhibited the proliferation of human lymphocytes induced by anti-CD3 antibodies. In contrast, the anti-CD3-mediated increase of intracellular Ca2+ and the activation and translocation of protein kinase C were not affected by the transforming growth factors. PMID- 2525487 TI - The amino-terminal sequences in the pro-alpha and -beta polypeptides of human lysosomal beta-hexosaminidase A and B are retained in the mature isozymes. AB - The alpha- and beta-subunits of beta-hexosaminidase (beta-N-acetylhexosaminidase, EC 3.2.1.52) are synthesized in the rough endoplasmic reticulum as prepropolypeptides. After the loss of the signal peptide and formation of enzymatically active dimers, the pro-isoenzymes are transported through the Golgi and into the lysosome for proteolytic and glycolytic processing to their stable mature forms. Maturation includes the hydrolysis, and previously presumed loss, of small N-terminal peptides from each propolypeptide. A recent report characterizing the processing of the beta-prepropolypeptide in beta hexosaminidase from a human fibroblast cell line [(1989) J. Biol. Chem. 264, 3380 3384] reported that the small pro-beta peptide was retained through a disulfide bond in the mature subunit, and that it was glycosylated. We have confirmed this result in normal human tissue. However, we report a different N-terminal for the mature pro-beta peptide. Furthermore, we have found that the pro-alpha peptide is similarly retained in the mature alpha-subunit through its single cysteine residue and that each pro-peptide undergoes C-terminal processing. PMID- 2525489 TI - [Changes in somatosensory evoked potentials in patients with vertebrogenic pain syndromes treated by electroacupuncture]. AB - Application of electroacupuncture (EAP) of the segmental points to patients with vertebrogenic algesic syndromes decreased amplitude of N150 and P240 waves recorded from vertex to painful electrocutaneous stimulation in the region innervated by an affected root. As distinct from EAP of segmental point auricular EAP not only decreased the amplitude of late components of evoked potentials (EP), but also increased it, direction of EP changes depending on the character of sensitivity disorders. It is suggested that effect of EAP-evoked EP changes in patients with hypalgesia is determined by two oppositively acting factors: by a decrease of nociceptive afferent impulsation intensity as a result of the antinociceptive system activation and by an increase of the afferent impulsation intensity due to recovery of function of central terminals in primary sensory neurons. PMID- 2525488 TI - Biochemical and antigenic characterization of CD45 polypeptides expressed on plasma membrane and internal granules of human neutrophils. AB - The expression of CD45 polypeptides, a phosphotyrosine phosphatase complex specific of leukocytes, has been investigated in both resting and activated neutrophils by using anti-CD45 monoclonal antibodies (MAb) which specifically recognize different polypeptide components of the CD45 molecular complex. Polypeptides of 180 and 130-150 kDa were equally precipitated by either a conventional CD45 MAb recognizing an antigenic determinant shared by the four CD45 glycoproteins (220, 205, 190 and 180 kDa) or by the anti-180 kDa UCHL1 MAb. These polypeptides were overexpressed on neutrophil plasma membranes after degranulatory stimulation. Conversely, neither the anti-220 kDa CD45R nor anti 220/205/190 kDa MAb reacted with CD45 molecules from resting or activated neutrophils. Furthermore, permeabilization analysis and comparative immunoprecipitation studies with different anti-CD45 MAb from fractions enriched in various neutrophil granules revealed that CD45 polypeptides (180 and 130-150 kDa) from internal granules are antigenic and biochemically identical to those expressed on plasma membrane. PMID- 2525491 TI - The rat models of non-insulin dependent diabetes induced by neonatal streptozotocin. AB - This review is intended to describe the characteristics of the rat models of non insulin-dependent diabetes induced by neonatal streptozotocin administration (n STZ models), to sum-up the information so far collected and to highlight the potential of these models for diabetes research. The n-STZ models can now be recognized as adequate tools for the elucidation of the mechanisms leading to: 1) regeneration of the beta cells, 2) the functional "exhaustion" of the beta cells, 3) the emergence of defects in insulin action. They appear well-suited to study the effects of the modulating factors involved in the appearance and/or deterioration of non-insulin-dependent diabetes (obesity, gestation, content of the diet). They are potentially appropriate for investigations in diabetes pharmacotherapy. PMID- 2525490 TI - [Lipoprotein Lp(a): a new risk factor of atherogenesis]. AB - Lp(a) is a lipoprotein present in all individuals in concentrations that are genetically determined. Its structure is characterized by the presence of an apoprotein with a high carbohydrate content called apoprotein a. Since 1972, numerous concordant data have endowed Lp(a) with a high risk of atherogenesis. This risk applies to the coronary and cervico-encephalic arteries. For the latter, Lp(a) even is a lipid parameter regarded as a major risk factor. The origin and metabolism of Lp(a) are little known, by they seem to differ from those of low-density lipoproteins. Its specific apoprotein of Lp(a). At the moment, there is no simple dietetic or medicinal treatment that can lower substantially the serum level of Lp(a). PMID- 2525492 TI - Effect of prostaglandin E1 analogue TFC 612 on diabetic neuropathy in streptozocin-induced diabetic rats. Comparison with aldose reductase inhibitor ONO 2235. AB - The effect of a newly developed oral agent, prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) analogue TFC 612, on diabetic neuropathy was studied by giving it for 6 wk to streptozocin induced diabetic rats that had been diabetic for 3 mo and was compared with the effects of aldose reductase inhibitor ONO 2235. Although both compounds improved decreased motor nerve conduction velocity, the effect of TFC 612 continued during the 6 wk of treatment, whereas that of ONO 2235 became weaker from wk 4. The abnormality in sciatic nerve sorbitol and myo-inositol levels was reversed with ONO 2235, whereas it was unchanged with TFC 612. With the laser Doppler flowmetry technique, a decrease in the sciatic nerve blood flow in diabetic rats was shown to improve with both compounds, but TFC 612 had a greater effect than ONO 2235, and the increased lactate level of the diabetic nerve was corrected with both compounds, suggesting that both may be associated with the amelioration of ischemia in the diabetic endoneurium. Both TFC 612 and ONO 2235 partially but significantly normalized decreased fiber size in diabetic rats. On the other hand, TFC 612 completely normalized the dilated lumen area in diabetic rats, whereas ONO 2235 did not. These results suggest that the PGE1 analogue TFC 612 has a significant effect on diabetic neuropathy, possibly via vasotropic action, and may be a potent compound for the treatment of diabetic neuropathy. PMID- 2525493 TI - Effects of sorbinil on glomerular structure and function in long-term-diabetic rats. AB - We investigated the role of the aldose reductase pathway in the pathogenesis of the nephropathy of rats with sever (non-insulin-treated) streptozocin-induced diabetes of 6 mo duration. The initial experiment included four groups of rats: diabetic and control animals on a 20% protein diet, which were untreated or treated with sorbinil (an aldose reductase inhibitor). Food intake was increased by diabetes but was uninfluenced by sorbinil, whereas urinary urea nitrogen excretion was increased and body weight was decreased by both variables. Glomerular basement membrane (GBM) width was increased by diabetes and decreased by sorbinil. No other structural changes were noted. We speculated that sorbinil could have slowed the abnormal rate of GBM thickening in diabetic rats and the normal increase in GBM width in control rats by inducing a mild catabolic state. The second experiment also involved four groups of rats: diabetic and control animals on a 50% protein diet, which were untreated or treated with sorbinil. In these studies, diabetes was again associated with reduced body weight, but sorbinil had no influence on urinary urea nitrogen. Urinary albumin excretion, which was increased by diabetes, was not affected by sorbinil. GBM width was increased by diabetes, but in contrast to animals on 20% protein diets, the animals on 50% protein diets and treated with sorbinil did not have reduced GBM widths. Mesangial volume fraction was greater in diabetic animals than in controls, and sorbinil largely prevented mesangial expansion in them. Surprisingly, the control animals on the 50% protein diet and given sorbinil had increased mesangial volume fraction compared with control rats on the same diet not given the drug.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525495 TI - An epidemiological study of children's attitudes toward disability. AB - In this epidemiological study the authors recorded the attitudes of children in Hamilton, Ontario, to physically disabled and mentally handicapped children. Univariate analyses confirmed the importance of female gender, friendship and contact with handicapped persons as determinants of more accepting attitudes. Type of disability and the presence or absence of disabled children in respondents' schools were not found to influence attitudes in a systematic manner. Correlations between attitudes and children's self-esteem or sociometric ratings were not significant, nor were parent-child attitude correlations. Maternal language of origin was found to influence children's attitudes, in favour of children of English-speaking mothers. These results are discussed with reference to their practical applications by community and educational systems seeking to foster integration of disabled children. PMID- 2525494 TI - Decreased insulin- and glucagon-pulse amplitude accompanying beta-cell deficiency induced by streptozocin in baboons. AB - The effect of beta-cell deficiency on the spontaneous pulsatile secretory pattern of the islets of Langerhans was studied in the baboon. Measures of beta-cell function were correlated with the secretory pattern before and at intervals after streptozocin administration. The degree of insulin deficiency was variable and ranged from mild to moderate. Highly regular pulses were less prevalent in baboons compared with rhesus monkeys and humans, but the mean frequency was similar and was not affected by treatment. The principal effect of beta-cell destruction was to proportionately reduce the pulse amplitude of insulin (-39%, P less than .003) without detectable change in pulse frequency, interhormonal phase relationship, or the regularity of pulses. Glucagon-pulse amplitude also fell ( 19%, P less than .09), but not significantly. However, glucagon-pulse amplitude was strongly correlated with insulin-pulse amplitude (r = -.59, P less than .002), whereas mean fasting plasma concentrations of insulin and glucagon were not significantly changed after treatment. Because streptozocin affects only the beta-cell, the data indicate a major influence of the insulin pulse on the alpha cell secretory pulse. The data do not support the presence of a separate pacemaker for the alpha-cell but do not eliminate this possibility. The strong correlation of reduction in insulin-pulse amplitude with increasing fasting glucose and decreasing glucose disappearance lends support to growing evidence that the pattern of insulin secretion is an important determinant of normal glucose homeostasis. PMID- 2525496 TI - [The peripheral nerves of non-diabetic rats after streptozotocin administration using automatic microscopic image analysis]. AB - Electrophysiologic studies of posterior tibial nerves by averaging method and morphometric investigations of sural nerves by automatic image analysis were performed in 7 non-diabetic rats 42 d after the administration of 55 mg streptozotocin/kg b.w. and in 10 untreated controls. Morphometry of stained semithin sections was carried out with system A 6471-AMBA/R (Robotron, Dresden, G.D.R.). There was no decrease of motor nerve conduction velocity in streptozotocin injected animals. The investigated morphometric parameters showed no significant alterations in the streptozotocin group. The studies show that in streptozotocin diabetic rats electrophysiological and morphological alterations of the peripheral nerve are caused by hyperglycemia but not by direct neurotoxic effects of streptozotocin. PMID- 2525497 TI - Reaction patterns of the myocardial interstitium in different models of cardiac hypertrophy--stereological investigations. AB - Several experimental models of cardiac hypertrophy were investigated in rats: 1. mild hypertrophy induced by physical exercise (18 weeks), 2. mild hypertrophy induced by renovascular hypertension (24 weeks), 3. moderate hypertrophy induced by renovascular hypertension in diabetic and non-diabetic animals (8 weeks), 4. moderate hypertrophy induced by renovascular hypertension in diabetic and non diabetic animals (12 weeks), 5. moderate hypertrophy induced by thyroxin application (4 weeks), 6. mild hypertrophy in chronic uremia (5/6 nephrectomy, 3 weeks). It is concluded from quantitative stereological parameters of the left ventricular papillary muscles that 1. in hypertrophic hearts myocardial blood flow and oxygen consumption, respectively, rather than the size of muscle fibres determine the capillary supply of the myocardium, 2. interstitial fibrosis occurs in hypertrophy induced by chronic pressure overload and depends on degree and duration of hypertension, 3. the extent of interstitial fibrosis in hypertension is magnified by diabetes mellitus, and 4. the interstitial fibrosis which occurs in chronic uremia is not caused by hypertension. PMID- 2525498 TI - Quantitative histoenzymological characteristics of the myocardium in sudden cardiac death. AB - Enzymes in the human myocardium following sudden death were examined for activity in a quantitative histoenzymological study, these were NAD-dependent dehadrogenases of succinate (SDG), lactate (LDG), beta-hydroxybutyrate (beta HOBDG), alpha-glycerophosphate (alpha-GPDG), alcohol (ADG), glucoso-6-phosphate (G-6-PDG), and NAD-diaphorase (NADse), and catalase. Autopsies were performed within 3 h after death. beta-HOBDG and LDG were found to show an increase in activity in the cardiomyocytes of sudden death subjects with coronary heart disease without apparent changes. In the myocardium from death subjects with coronary heart disease and large postinfarct cardiosclerosis, the activity of the enzymes was directly related to the severity of myocardial hypertrophy and signs of chronic heart failure. As myocardial hypertrophy developed, the enzyme activity increased; when there appeared signs of chronic heart failure it decreased. The myocardium from sudden death subjects with alcoholic cardiomyopathy showed diminished redox enzyme activity and higher activity of the enzyme utilizing alcohol (ADG and catalase). The findings suggest that changes in the enzyme activity in the myocardium are of various type and depend on previous cardiac abnormalities. PMID- 2525499 TI - [Morphometric studies of peripheral nerves and spinal ganglion cells in streptozotocin diabetic rats]. AB - Morphometric studies of sural nerves and dorsal root ganglia cells L5 were performed in 8 diabetic rats 35 or 44d after the administration of streptozotocin and in 8 controls. Morphometry of photographed semithin sections was realized after whole body glutaraldehyde perfusion with semiautomatic MOP AM 02 and MOP Videoplan. The peripheral nerve showed no decrease of the total nerve area, number of nerve fibres or of myelinated area. Parameters area of fibres decreased in diabetic animals caused by reduction of myelin sheath thickness. There were no changes of mean neuron volume and maximal cell diameter in the dorsal root ganglia. Whereas in experimental short-term diabetes the peripheral nerves demonstrate morphologic changes correlating to biochemical abnormalities, no such correlations can be observed in the perikarya. It is suggested, that primary SCHWANN cell lesion is responsible for the observed myelin thickness reduction. PMID- 2525500 TI - [Increased incidence of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome following combined GnRH agonist/hMG therapy]. AB - In the present paper we examined, whether the combined GnRH-agonist/hMG therapy implies an increased risk of the ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHS). In a retrospective analysis, 525 GnRH-a/hMG cycles were compared with 643 cycles of hMG stimulation, which were simultaneously performed at the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics of the University of Hamburg. Two different GnRH agonists were used: Buserelin (Hoechst) given intranasally (410 cycles) and Triptorelin (Ferring) intramuscularly (115 cycles). The clinical results of hMG "only"-therapy revealed an OHS incidence of 7% for grade II and 0.2% for grade III. In contrast, significantly higher incidences were observed after GnRH-a/hMG treatment. In Buserelin/hMG cycles in 23% OHS grade II and in 1.0% OHS grade III occurred, in Triptorelin/hMG cycles in 40% OHS II and in 5.2% OHS III, respectively. The increased incidence of OHS correlated with higher ovarian estrogen production as well as a higher number of follicles following the GnRH a/hMG stimulation. Furthermore, in GnRH-a/hMG cycles a prolonged duration of follicular maturation occurred due to an increase of the active phase; in addition the amount of hMG-ampoules needed for ovarian stimulation was higher. After GnRH-a/hMG treatment, an endogenous LH-surge was not detected, whereas in 34% of hMG stimulated cycles irregular LH-fluctuations were observed. There was a higher pregnancy rate in GnRH-a/hMG cycles (15%/525 cycles), as compared to hMG stimulation (8%/643 cycles), but the abortion rate was similar (23%, GnRH-a/hMG, versus 13%, hMG). The demonstration of an increased ovarian response leading to better pregnancy rates but also higher risks of OHS is well known from earlier data of hMG stimulation in patients with hypogonadotropic amenorrhoea (WHO group I). This implies that GnRH-agonist pre-treatment shows similar endocrine conditions in normogonadotropic patients. PMID- 2525501 TI - [Organ-saving therapy of small ovarian cystomas and dermoids by surgical laparoscopy--a trial 1985-1987]. AB - The article reports on the results of the removal of small benign ovarian tumors (teratoma, cystic adenoma) without oophorectomy. 10 patients were treated by laparotomy and 23 patients with operative laparoscopy. The laparoscopy procedure is limited to tumors not larger than 5 cm. In this procedure it is especially difficult to recognize the difference between a luteal cyst and a cystic tumor which is a already malignant. Careful preoperative and intra-operative attention must be paid to the differential diagnosis. So far, follow up of the 14 patients with cystic adenoma and the 19 patients with teratoma, has shown no recurrence of tumor in the remaining ovary. PMID- 2525502 TI - [Hypophyseal suppression and subsequent cycle stimulation: experiences in an in vitro fertilization program]. AB - Gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists can induce a hypogonadotropic state. We studied the effect of a long acting GnRH agonist on pituitary gonadotropin levels, the pattern of serum steroid levels in subsequent cycle stimulation, and whether such a protocol can improve the results of an in-vitro fertilization (IVF) program. 29 patients with tubal factor from our IVF program received 4 mg Decapeptyl CR intramuscularly and were subsequently stimulated with FSH/HMG/HCG (Group I). 35 patients were stimulated according to our standard protocol with HMG/HCG (Group II). After a single injection of Decapeptyl CR, serum levels of LH, FSH and E2 fell to more than half of pretreatment levels. In the subsequent cycle stimulation the gonadotropin dosage was increased threefold compared with the control group. In group I, progesterone levels were significantly higher. Though more oocytes were retrieved in group I, fertilization rates were significantly lower. After Decapeptyl and the subsequent stimulation, we observed short rises in urinary LH in 22/29 patients. In our experience, a single intramuscular injection of Decapeptyl resulted in sufficient pituitary suppression, however, we could not see an improvement in the results after IVF. PMID- 2525503 TI - Phylogenetic study on the immunoreactive atrial natriuretic peptide in the heart. AB - Using two antisera against atriopeptin III (AP III) which had different characteristics in cross-reactivities with atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) analogs, we have measured an immunoreactive ANP (ir-ANP) in the heart extracts of several species. ir-ANP in atrial extracts showed both high and low molecular weights. Serial dilutions of atrial extracts from chickens, turtles, frogs, and fish yielded competition curves which were parallel to the standard curve of AP III with antiserum No. 4. In comparison with two serial dilution curves of atrial extracts made using two antisera, No. 4 and No. 9, we suggest that the amino acid at position 12 of ir-ANP in the atrial extracts of chicken, turtle, frog, and fish is not isoleucine but is some other amino acid. PMID- 2525504 TI - Possible effects of membrane polarization on calcium uptake by and release from sarcoplasmic reticulum vesicles. AB - Rates of calcium uptake by and calcium release from sarcoplasmic reticulum vesicles isolated from skeletal muscle of the crab seem to depend on membrane potential generated by potassium (K) and chloride (Cl) gradients. This does not appear to be due to an effect of the ions themselves since media of different ionic compositions leading to the same membrane potential, also lead to the same ATP hydrolysis and the same Ca uptake by SR vesicles. From a large positive intravesicular potential (conditions termed "normal" in this paper), membrane depolarization of passively Ca loaded vesicles, produced by changes in K and Cl concentrations in the media, resulted in: i) decrease in rate of calcium uptake; ii) decrease in calcium loading; iii) increase in rate of calcium release despite a decrease in the driving force for calcium ions. Moreover, the addition of caffeine (5 mmol/l) to the different polarization media resulted in a increase in calcium release. PMID- 2525505 TI - Nucleotide sequence of the Escherichia coli entE gene. AB - The Escherichia coli entE gene encodes a polypeptide necessary in the latter stages of biosynthesis of the siderophore enterobactin. The entE gene and adjacent DNA were sequenced. The predicted EntE polypeptide consists of 536 amino acids and has a Mr of 58,299 and a net charge of -7.33. Genetic evidence combined with this and previous sequencing data indicate that the genes entCEB(G)A are transcribed as unit from a promoter upstream of entC. PMID- 2525506 TI - [Genetico-epidemiologic analysis of the role of constitutional factors in the etiology of epilepsy]. AB - Using multifactorial and monolocus models interrelations of a number of constitutional factors of probands (sex, child convulsive reactions, character abnormalities, age at the time of illness onset) with genetic factors of epilepsy occurrence among relatives (365 families) and populations from 5 regions of the Khabarovsk krai (2.88 patients per 1000 subjects) were studied. The dependence of epilepsy manifestation probability in mutant homo- and heterozygotes on sex, convulsive reactions and age characteristics of the proband body reactivity was shown. The notions of double threshold determination of convulsive readiness (the T1 threshold "cuts" a part of population with non-paroxysmal abnormality of the brain bioelectric activity, while the T2 threshold "cuts" that with convulsive reactions) were substantiated, the presence of this causing epilepsy development in individuals with a mutant allele of the major dominant gene. The hypothesis of the ecogenetic interaction of epilepsy main etiologic factors (major gene, environmental factors and constitutional readiness) has been described. PMID- 2525507 TI - Common inflammatory skin diseases of the elderly. AB - Elderly patients are more likely than the general population to have significant cutaneous diseases due to structural changes, alteration of immunologic response, and different environmental influences. This review focuses on the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management of the most common inflammatory dermatoses likely to be encountered in the geriatric population. PMID- 2525508 TI - PTCA in the elderly: results and expectations. AB - Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) is an excellent and safe alternative mode of revascularization in selected elderly (greater than 65 years) patients. The initial success rate at our institution for elective and non elective procedures is essentially equal when compared with a younger (less than or equal to 65 years) population. Although the 24-hour mortality of 1.0% was higher during elective PTCA for the elderly versus 0.3% in those 65 and under, this is still very acceptable when compared with coronary artery bypass grafting. In a small number of patients, we found no increased mortality between the two groups during non-elective PTCA. We conclude that PTCA may be the procedure of choice for symptomatic single discrete stenosis in the elderly patient. PMID- 2525509 TI - Inverted T helper/T suppressor lymphocyte ratio is not a reliable indicator of coexistent HIV infection in the presence of carcinoma: report of a patient with ovarian carcinoma and inverted TH/TS ratio. AB - Patients with non-HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) related cancers may also have HIV infection. Inverted peripheral blood lymphocyte T helper/T suppressor ratios with selective loss of T helper cells may be used as a clinical screening test for HIV infection in these patients since they may be seronegative for retrovirus infection early in the course of infection. We describe a case in which carcinoma alone appeared to induce systemic changes that resembled coexistent HIV infection. Many of these abnormalities, including inverted TH/TS ratio with selective loss of T helper cells, improved in the immediate postoperative period, indicating that HIV infection was not present. We conclude then, that diagnosis of HIV infection should not be made without more definitive evidence of its presence than an inverted TH/TS ratio in a patient with carcinoma. PMID- 2525510 TI - Predictive factors for long-term survival in patients with advanced ovarian cancer. AB - A total of 107 patients with carcinoma of the ovary were entered in a study combining extensive primary surgery and intensive chemotherapy. Because of evidence supporting the effectiveness of both single agent platinum (P) and the combination of cyclophosphamide and doxorubicin (CA), patients were treated with alternating cycles of CA and CP. Primary surgery to remove the bulk of tumor to less than 2 cm was possible in 45% of the 85 eligible patients, and an additional 17% had similar surgery after two to four cycles of chemotherapy. Fifteen percent of patients progressed on chemotherapy. Of the 68 who were clinically and radiologically without disease at the completion of chemotherapy, 91% had second look surgery. Forty-eight percent of these women had residual disease. All patients but one are at risk for greater than 60 months, with a median follow-up of 86 months. Overall 5-year survival is 26%, with a median survival of 33 months. Twenty patients survived over 5 years with 11 continuing to be free of disease (13% of all eligible patients). Patients with modified Broder's grade I,II tumors have not yet reached a median survival. Grade, stage, and primary mass size were the only variables with independent prognostic value in a Cox multivariate analysis. PMID- 2525511 TI - Binding of levonorgestrel, norethisterone and desogestrel to human sex hormone binding globulin and influence on free testosterone levels. AB - The progestogens desogestrel, levonorgestrel, lynestrenol and norethisterone are known to display certain androgenic effects. Apart from direct androgen receptor interaction, binding to sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) and displacement of testosterone could lead to an increase in free, metabolically active testosterone. The affinities for SHBG binding of some progestogens including levonorgestrel, norethisterone and the active metabolite of desogestrel, 3-keto desogestrel, were compared using an equilibrium partition method, and the distribution between free and protein-bound testosterone during progestogen therapy was calculated with the use of a computer program. During treatment with desogestrel, levonorgestrel and norethisterone alone, testosterone displacement could account for a slight increase in free testosterone, though the decrease in serum SHBG following treatment was found to be more important in this respect. Also during treatment with combinations of ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel for oral contraception, testosterone displacement could theoretically have a slight influence on free testosterone levels. Combinations with ethinyl estradiol and desogestrel or norethisterone, on the other hand, cause an increase in SHBG concentration and as a result a fall in free testosterone which could not be compensated via testosterone displacement. PMID- 2525512 TI - [The intraocular pressure lowering effect of human atrial peptide]. AB - The human atrial natriuretic factor (hANF) is a cardiovascular hormone, which promotes renal sodium secretion in response to increases in extracellular fluid volume and atrial pressure. It regulates sodium and volume homeostasis. Specific receptors for hANF have been identified in the ciliary processes of rats and rabbits, which mediated a long-lasting reduction in intraocular pressure (IOP) after intra-atrial injection. In a series of 10 glaucoma patients with bilateral IOP elevations above 33 mmHg an i.v. bolus injection of hANF was administered and IOP was recorded before and over an 8-h period after injection. The human atrial natriuretic factor lowered IOP significantly. The potential of hANF as an antiglaucoma agent is discussed. PMID- 2525513 TI - [Diagnostic procedures in coronary heart disease. Making decisions for conservative therapy, percutaneous transluminal angioplasty or bypass surgery]. PMID- 2525514 TI - The portocardiorenal axis and refractory ascites: the underfilled cup runneth over. PMID- 2525515 TI - Disomic homozygosity in 21-trisomic cells: a mechanism responsible for transient myeloproliferative syndrome. AB - Nine patients with transient myeloproliferative syndrome (TMS) with or without Down syndrome (DS) phenotype were studied cytogenetically, particularly with regard to the origin of trisomy 21. Of six DS patients, five had standard trisomy 21 and one a mosaic consisting of 21-tetrasomic, trisomic and disomic cell lines. The other three non-DS patients were mosaics with both 21-trisomic and -disomic cell lines. In all nine patients, the leukemoid cells in TMS stage were largely or exclusively composed of trisomy or tetrasomy 21, an indication that the additional chromosome(s) 21 plays an important role in the occurrence of TMS. Sequential Q- and R-banding analysis of heteromorphisms demonstrated that all these patients had a duplication of a chromosome 21, as revealed by an "aab" pattern, regardless of DS or normal phenotype or parental origin of the extra chromosome 21. Irrespective of the possibility of recombination, the "aa" chromosomes are homozygous, i.e. show disomic homozygosity: this may in turn result in the duplication of a gene that controls the proliferation of the myelogenous cells, thereby leading to TMS. PMID- 2525517 TI - A new polymorphic variant of human complement factor I. AB - Sera from 305 individuals were typed for factor I, and a new variant, tentatively designated FI C, was found. All other samples were FI B except for seven samples from Chinese that were of the FI AB phenotype. This suggests that polymorphism of factor I may be rare in Caucasians. PMID- 2525516 TI - Hungarian surveillance of germinal mutations. Lack of detectable increase in indicator conditions caused by germinal mutations following the Chernobyl accident. AB - The Hungarian surveillance of germinal mutations is based on three indicator conditions seen in offspring, i.e., 15 sentinel anomalies, Down syndrome and component anomaly pairs of unidentified multiple congenital anomalies. It is an "opportunistic program," because the necessary data are available from the Hungarian Congenital Malformation Registry. This system is described and the criteria of a good registry are summarized. The analysis of indicator conditions caused by germinal mutations did not reveal any measurable mutagenic effects in Hungary following the accident at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant. The pros and cons of germinal mutation surveillance are discussed. PMID- 2525518 TI - Results of 130 consecutive percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) procedures in single and multiple vessel coronary artery disease (CAD). AB - Over the last 1-year period, we performed 130 consecutive percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) procedures in 108 patients, 103 of them were males and 5 females. Their mean age was 50.9 +/- 6.83 years (range 33-70). All of them were symptomatic, manifested by acute infarction in 18 (17%), chronic stable angina in 30 (28%), unstable angina in 5 (5%) and post-myocardial infarction angina in 55 (51%) cases. Among these patients, single-vessel CAD was present in 42 (39%), double-vessel in 37 (34%) and triple-vessel CAD in 11 (10%) patients. Nine patients (8.3%) had total occlusion, and 18 (16.6%) had tandem or bifurcation lesions of target artery. Of the 112 PTCA procedures (excluding those in acute infarction), 53 (47%) were performed on LAD, 29 (26%) on RCA, and 30 (27%) on circumflex artery, with success rates of 86.7%, 83.3% and 82.7% respectively. The overall success rate was 85% (95 of 112). The PTCA was successful in 36 of 42 (85.7%), 32 of 37 (86.5%) and 9 on 11 (82%) patients with single, double and triple-vessel CAD respectively. The mean diameter stenosis reduced from 67.1 +/- 16.54% to 19.9% +/- 10.9%. PTCA was unsuccessful in 17 (15%) due to failure to cross the lesion in 11 (9.7%), failure to dilate in 1 (0.9%) and abrupt reclosure of dilated segment in 5 (4.4%). Four (3.5%) patients underwent CABG. Two patients had redo PTCA owing to restenosis at about 6 months of first PTCA.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525519 TI - Binding sites for C-reactive protein on human monocytes are distinct from IgG Fc receptors. AB - Previous investigations have provided evidence to suggest that C-reactive protein (CRP), an acute-phase reactant, binds to human monocytes at a membrane site that is either identical to or physically associated with IgG Fc receptors. To characterize further the relationship between monocyte CRP binding sites and IgG Fc receptors, monocytes were allowed to attach to surfaces coated with IgG or CRP and binding-site redistribution was assessed. Binding was measured by using protein-coated sheep erythrocytes (E). When attached to control (gelatin or albumin) surfaces, greater than 60% and 43% of monocytes formed rosettes with E IgG and E-CRP, respectively. Following adherence to surface immobilized CRP, the proportion of cells binding E-IgG was unchanged; however, fewer than 20% of monocytes bound E-CRP. When attached to IgG-coated surfaces, fewer than 20% of monocytes formed rosettes with either E-IgG or E-CRP. In order to determine whether the unidirectional modulation of CRP and IgG binding sites was the result of CRP binding directly to a subclass of IgG Fc receptors, fluid-phase IgG blocking studies were performed. When monocyte monolayers were preincubated with either monomeric or heat-aggregated IgG, a dose-dependent reduction in E-IgG binding was observed. In contrast, all concentrations of fluid-phase IgG failed to inhibit monocyte binding of E-CRP. These data indicate that CRP binds to human monocytes at a site physically associated with but distinct from IgG Fc receptors. PMID- 2525520 TI - Functional and phenotypic analysis of human T-cell clones which stimulate IgE production in vitro. AB - Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from a patient suffering from the hyper IgE syndrome were used to generate phytohaemagglutinin (PHA)-expanded T-cell clones (all CD4+, CD8-, CD23-). A selection of the clones was tested for their ability to help IgE secretion by culturing with normal B cells in the presence of solid-phase antibody to CD3. Supernatants were harvested on Day 7 and assayed by ELISA for IgE, IgG and IgM. Lymphokine secretion by the clones was assessed by culturing clones for 24 hr with solid-phase antibody to CD3 followed by assay of the supernatants for IL-2, IL-4 and interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) production. In addition, clones were analysed by flow cytometry for CDw29 and CD45R expression. Initial experiments with seven clones indicated that those clones that could help IgE secretion also stimulated optimal IgG and IgM responses. All clones appeared to secrete IL-2, IL-4 and IFN-gamma, although the amounts of each varied. These results confirm recent findings that human T-cell clones do not fall into Tinf (Th1) and Th (Th2) type subsets as described in the mouse. There was no clear correlation between the lymphokines secreted by the clones and their capacity to help IgE production. However, the helper function of the clones for all isotypes, including IgE, appeared to be related to the level of expression of the surface antigen CDw29. PMID- 2525521 TI - Immunoregulatory properties of bone marrow-derived cells in the iris and ciliary body. AB - Iris and ciliary body of mouse eyes have been examined for the presence of bone marrow-derived cells possessing the capability of functioning as antigen presenting cells (APC). We have determined that iris and ciliary body contain significant numbers of cells bearing T200, indicating their bone marrow origin. Most of these express the F4/80 marker typically found on mature macrophages. However, approximately one-third of the cells express Ia and a similar number express Mac-1 markers. Virtually none of the cells express Thy-1 or surface immunoglobulin. Whole preparations of excised iris/ciliary body, or single cell suspensions prepared from these tissues were then assayed for their capacity to induce proliferation among allogeneic lymphocytes. It was discovered that iris/ciliary body tissues or cells did not function as alloantigen-presenting cells, although tissue and cells derived from the corneal limbus were allostimulatory. In addition, iris/ciliary body tissues and cells displayed the ability to suppress mixed lymphocyte reactions to which they had been added as regulatory cells. We conclude that normal iris and ciliary body contain bone marrow-derived cells that fail to function as alloantigen-presenting cells. However, cells were present that have the capacity to inhibit alloimmune lymphocyte proliferation. The strategic location of inhibitory cells in the tissues that line the anterior chamber of the eye raises the possibility that these cells may play a role in the phenomenon of immunological privilege that is characteristic of this site. PMID- 2525522 TI - Platelet calcium and quenched-flow aggregation kinetics in essential hypertension. AB - Abnormal platelet function may contribute to the complications of essential hypertension. We have studied the kinetics of platelet aggregation induced by adenosine diphosphate (ADP) or epinephrine, plasma beta-thromboglobulin, and basal, cytosolic, and free calcium, as correlates of platelet function. Fifteen untreated patients with essential hypertension and without detectable atherosclerosis, 18-40 years old, were compared with 30 matched normotensive control subjects. Maximal rates of platelet aggregation (Vmax) with ADP and epinephrine were significantly higher in patients than in control subjects (p less than 0.03), as assessed by quenched-flow aggregometry. However, significance was lost when Vmax was corrected for the platelet count. Paradoxically, the activation constants (Ka) for ADP were higher in patients than in control subjects (p less than 0.03). With ADP as the inducing agent, onset time (t) or lag period before aggregation begins was longer in patients than in control subjects (p less than 0.02). beta-thromboglobulin levels, an index of in vivo platelet activation, were not significantly different between the two groups (p = 0.13). The mean platelet cytosolic free calcium concentration was higher in patients (213 +/- 19 nM) than in control subjects (172 +/- 14 nM), but this difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.07). However, there was a close correlation between the free calcium level and systolic, diastolic, and mean blood pressure (p less than 0.003, p less than 0.04, p less than 0.004, respectively). No difference in platelet volume between the two groups was found. Our data suggest that platelets in the early stages of essential hypertension display an overall increased aggregation potential but a diminished sensitivity to ADP.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525524 TI - Antihypertensive effect of a 5-day infusion of atrial natriuretic factor in humans. AB - Atrial natriuretic factor was infused in a low dose (0.2 microgram/min) during 5 days in six patients with essential hypertension. Atrial natriuretic factor infusion caused plasma levels of atrial natriuretic factor to increase from 49 +/ 10 to 106 +/- 19 pg/ml. Within 4 hours after the start of the atrial natriuretic factor infusion, urinary sodium excretion increased in all subjects. Sodium balance was regained after 24 hours with a net loss of 72.3 +/- 14.6 mmol. However, systolic as well as diastolic blood pressure started to decrease gradually in all subjects only after 12 hours of atrial natriuretic factor infusion, reaching a stable level after 36 hours with a decrease of 11.5 +/- 1.5% and 10.3 +/- 0.8%, respectively. Heart rate increased in parallel by 12.6 +/- 3.1%. Hematocrit rose 7.1 +/- 2.3%. After cessation of atrial natriuretic factor infusion, plasma atrial natriuretic factor levels, sodium balance, and hematocrit returned to baseline within 24 hours, whereas blood pressure slowly returned toward baseline values over 3 days. These data show that chronic atrial natriuretic factor infusion in patients with essential hypertension causes a negative sodium balance and a rise in hematocrit, followed by a smooth decrease in blood pressure with a rise in heart rate until a new equilibrium is reached after approximately 2 days. Thus, atrial natriuretic factor in low doses appears intimately involved in the regulation of sodium balance and blood pressure in humans. Moreover, these data suggest that atrial natriuretic factor-like substances will eventually become useful antihypertensive drugs. PMID- 2525523 TI - Salt-induced hypertension in Dahl salt-sensitive rats. Hemodynamics and renal responses. AB - This study was performed with Dahl salt-sensitive (DS) and Dahl salt-resistant (DR) rats to detect differences in cardiovascular hemodynamics and renal responses that might be involved in initiating salt-induced hypertension in DS rats. The effects of 4 weeks of 8% NaCl diet were studied in conscious, male DR and DS rats in which vascular and urinary catheters had been previously implanted. Results were compared with those obtained from control groups of DR and DS rats on 4 weeks of 1% NaCl diet. DR rats on 8% salt diet did not develop hypertension, and cardiac output and blood volume were unchanged; glomerular filtration rate, urinary flow, sodium excretion, and plasma atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) increased. DS rats on 8% salt diet developed hypertension, and cardiac output and blood volume increased; glomerular filtration rate, urinary flow, and sodium excretion did not change, despite an increase in ANF. DS and DR rats on 1% NaCl diet were subjected to ANF infusion. After ANF infusion DR rats had a decreased blood volume and an increased glomerular filtration rate, urinary flow, and sodium excretion; DS rats showed no significant changes in blood volume, glomerular filtration rate, urinary flow, or sodium excretion. ANF caused vasodilation in all regions studied in DR rats; DS rats showed vasodilation in all regions except the kidney. After acute volume expansion, although both DR and DS rats responded by an increase in cardiac output, only DS rats developed prolonged hypertension. This finding suggests an inadequate vasodilatory mechanism in DS rats. In response to acute volume expansion, renal resistance decreased in DR rats but not in DS rats. It is concluded that the primary hemodynamic disturbance in DS rats with salt-induced hypertension is an increase in cardiac output caused by blood volume expansion in the absence of any vasodilation. Comparison of the responses of DS and DR rats to high salt diets, ANF infusion, and acute volume expansion indicates that the salt-induced hypertension in DS rats is initiated by a diminished renal response to ANF. PMID- 2525525 TI - Increased neural atrial natriuretic factor generation in spontaneously hypertensive rats. AB - The increased neural atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) concentrations in spontaneously hypertensive rats compared with Wistar-Kyoto control rats prompted us to examine the basis of this phenomenon. Central and peripheral neural tissues from both strains were processed under rigorous antiproteolytic conditions, which were monitored by degradation of purified and iodo-labeled proANF or synthetic ANF[Ser99, Tyr126]. The extracted material was separated on a reverse-phase high pressure liquid chromatography system, and eluates were determined for immunoreactive ANF with radioimmunoassays, employing antibodies directed against two different fragments of the ANF prohormone. The chromatographic pattern of immunoreactive-ANF elution showed the clear presence of proANF in all neural tissues studied. This pattern also included an intermediate ANF and COOH-terminal of proANF whose relative varying content was tissue dependent. Superior cervical ganglia contained most of the immunoreactive ANF corresponding to proANF and intermediate ANF. Total immunoreactive ANF in the hypothalamus, brainstem, and upper and lower parts of the spinal cord was always higher in spontaneously hypertensive than in Wistar-Kyoto rats. However, there was no difference in the content of the main molecular forms of ANF in any of their neural tissues. We suggest that the increase in neural ANF in spontaneously hypertensive rats does not arise from posttranslational alterations and may indicate an enhanced ANF synthesis rate or accumulation, or both. PMID- 2525526 TI - Impaired left ventricular functional reserve in hypertensive patients with left ventricular hypertrophy. AB - To determine whether patients with hypertension and especially those with left ventricular hypertrophy have subtle changes in cardiac function, we measured the increase in left ventricular ejection fraction and in systolic blood pressure to end-systolic volume index ratio with exercise in 40 hypertensive patients and 16 age-matched normotensive volunteers. Twenty-two hypertensive patients without hypertrophy had normal end-systolic wall stress at rest and exercise responses. In contrast, the 18 patients with echocardiographic criteria for left ventricular hypertrophy demonstrated a significant increase in end-systolic wall stress at rest compared with normal subjects (69 +/- 16 vs. 55 +/- 15 10(3) x dyne/cm2, p less than 0.05) despite having normal resting left ventricular size and ejection fraction. In patients with left ventricular hypertrophy, the increase in ejection fraction with exercise was less than in the normotensive control subjects (7 +/- 7 vs. 12 +/- 8 units, p less than 0.05), and delta systolic blood pressure to end systolic volume with exercise was reduced (3.3 +/- 3.8 vs. 8.3 +/- 7.7 mm Hg/ml/m2, p less than 0.05). The hypertensive patients with hypertrophy displayed a shift downward and to the right in the relation between systolic blood pressure to end-systolic volume ratio and end-systolic wall stress compared with control subjects and hypertensive patients without left ventricular hypertrophy. Thus, hypertensive patients with left ventricular hypertrophy by echocardiography and normal resting ejection fraction exhibit abnormal ventricular functional responses to exercise. This finding may have implications in identifying patients at higher risk for developing heart failure. PMID- 2525528 TI - Calcium infusion increases plasma atrial natriuretic factor in spontaneously hypertensive rats. AB - The effect of calcium on plasma atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) concentration was determined in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and their control, Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats. CaCl2 10.5 mg (0.095 mmol) in 0.54 ml 5% glucose or an equal volume of vehicle alone was infused intravenously for 30 minutes into conscious precannulated SHR (vehicle, n = 16; CaCl2, n = 16) and WKY rats (vehicle, n = 25; CaCl2, n = 15). Direct systolic blood pressure was measured throughout the infusion period. Blood samples for serum total calcium and plasma ANF were obtained at the end of each experiment. The systolic blood pressure did not change significantly during infusion of the vehicle or CaCl2 in either strain. No significant difference was observed in serum total calcium concentration between SHR and WKY rats after vehicle (9.8 +/- 0.1 [mean +/- SEM] mg/dl vs. 10.0 +/- 0.1) or after CaCl2 infusion (12.2 +/- 0.3 vs. 12.2 +/- 0.2). Plasma ANF concentrations after both vehicle and CaCl2 infusion were significantly higher in SHR than in WKY rats (vehicle, 211 +/- 24 pg/ml vs. 129 +/- 11, p less than 0.05; CaCl2, 395 +/- 21 vs. 278 +/- 33, p less than 0.05). There were high degrees of correlation between serum total calcium and plasma ANF both in SHR (r = 0.77, p less than 0.001) and in WKY rats (r = 0.76, p less than 0.001). No significant difference was observed in the slopes of the regression lines of ANF as a function of the serum total calcium concentration between SHR and WKY rats.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525527 TI - Enhanced release of atrial natriuretic factor by endothelin in atria from hypertensive rats. AB - Intravenous (bolus) administration of endothelin results in a transient fall in blood pressure that is accentuated in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) compared with Wistar-Kyoto normotensive rats (WKY). In attempting to discern possible mechanisms underlying this depressor response, we examined the ability of endothelin to release atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) from isolated, spontaneously contracting atria from SHR and WKY. Isolated right atria were suspended under 3.0 g of resting force in tissue baths with the amount of immunoreactive ANF (irANF) released after exposure to endothelin assessed by radioimmunoassay. Endothelin (10(-8) and 10(-7) M) caused a concentration dependent increase (1.5-4.5-fold) in the release of irANF, which was significantly greater in atria of SHR compared with WKY. The greater release of irANF in atria of SHR versus WKY was not related to tissue weight or changes in contractile rate or force induced by endothelin. Therefore, endothelin appears to cause a direct release of irANF from rat right atria in vitro. As found for the depressor response in vivo, endothelin is more efficacious in the hypertensive compared with the normotensive atrial preparation. Release of ANF may be important in the hypotensive response to endothelin in vivo. PMID- 2525530 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide plasma levels during hemodialysis and hemofiltration in patients with end-stage renal disease. AB - Using a cross-over protocol we repeatedly measured the plasma levels of alpha hANP (atrial natriuretic peptide) during one week by radio-immunoassay in eight patients with end-stage renal disease treated with chronic hemodialysis or hemofiltration. Before each hemodialysis or hemofiltration session mean plasma ANP levels (353 +/- 112, and 337 +/- 99 pg.ml-1, respectively) were significantly above normal (50 - 166 pg.ml-1). In all but one patient, the values fell significantly towards but not reaching the normal range. Plasma ANP concentrations returned to normal at the end of the treatment in only two of the eight subjects. There was a positive correlation between the increase in body weight from one treatment to the next and the plasma ANP concentration (r = +0.35, p less than 0.05). The net loss of fluid volume during each treatment did not correlate significantly with the change in plasma ANP levels. There was no difference between hemodialysis and hemofiltration. Plasma ANP measurement may be helpful in the judgement of volume status in patients with end-stage renal disease treated by hemodialysis or hemofiltration. PMID- 2525529 TI - Clinical efficacy and safety of teicoplanin in the treatment of gram-positive infections. AB - This study was an open efficacy and safety study of teicoplanin in hospitalized patients with gram-positive infections. 26 patients entered the study. Teicoplanin was administered by intravenous bolus injection at a dose of 200 mg or 400 mg every 24 h, and in all cases an initial loading dose of 400 mg was given. The mean duration of treatment was 9.4 days (range four to 20 days). The infections included 18 skin/soft tissue, four lower respiratory tract, two urinary tract and two joint/bone. Clinical cure and improvement occurred in 20 of the 26 patients. Only two adverse events (moderate diarrhoea and mild pain at injection site) related to teicoplanin occurred in one patient. It was concluded that teicoplanin was effective and well tolerated in the treatment of gram positive infections. PMID- 2525531 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide secretion in heart transplant patients. AB - Plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), plasma renin activity (PRA), aldosterone (ALD) and vasopressin (VP) were assessed in six heart transplant patients (HTP) and ten healthy subjects under bed rest conditions and 60 and 120 minutes after head-out water immersion (WI). Bed rest had no significant influence on these parameters. WI raised plasma volume (PV) to the same extent in both groups. This increase of PV was accompanied by significant suppression of PRA, ALD and VP and an increase of plasma ANP. In HTP basal plasma ANP was significantly elevated and the ANP response to central hypervolemia reduced. Significantly elevated VP plasma levels were also found in HTP. These endocrine abnormalities in HTP seem to be caused by latent failure of the transplanted heart. No direct correlation was found between plasma ANP and PRA, ALD and VP under basal conditions and after WI in either HTP or normals. PMID- 2525532 TI - Pharmacokinetics of clodronate in patients with metastatic breast cancer. AB - Pharmacokinetics of clodronate was studied in six breast cancer patients with only bone metastases. 14C-clodronate was administered intravenously (10 muCi/200 mg) and orally (20 muCi/400 mg) on separate occasions. Vc of clodronate averaged 6.3 +/- 3.0 (SD) 1 and Vdss 16.3 +/- 3.81 corresponding to the extracellular water volume. Distribution and elimination were fast with t1/2 alpha of 0.22 +/- 0.22 h and t1/2 beta of 2.3 +/- 0.9 h. The elimination occurred mainly by renal excretion of the unchanged drug CLP averaging 107 +/- 27 ml/min and CLR 80 +/- 18 ml/min. The protein unbound, free fraction in plasma was 64%. On the basis of urinary excretion data, there was a slow terminal elimination phase with a half life of 12.8 +/- 6.9 h. Thus about 20% of the intravenous dose was retained in the body, most likely in the bones, 3 days after drug administration. About 75% of the intravenous dose was recovered in urine and 5% in feces. Based on cumulative excretion data into urine after both routes of administration, the bioavailability of oral clodronate was 1.9 +/- 0.4%. These findings correspond closely to those obtained in healthy volunteers in previous studies. PMID- 2525533 TI - Sufentanil pharmacokinetics in neurosurgical patients. AB - The effects of respiratory alkalosis and dehydration on the pharmacokinetics of sufentanil have been determined. Forty neurosurgical patients entered the study: group I (n = 20) had spinal surgery while group II (n = 20) had elective craniotomies. All patients received a single intravenous bolus of sufentanil (2 micrograms/kg) during induction of anesthesia. Patients in group II received furosemide (40 mg) and mannitol (1 g/kg) prior to surgery and were hyperventilated to a PaCO2 below 30 mmHg. The anesthetic management was identical in both groups. Arterial blood samples were collected to determine sufentanil concentrations (RIA), blood gases, pH, hematocrit and electrolytes. Patients in group II had significantly higher blood pH and urinary output when compared to group I (p less than 0.05). Plasma sufentanil concentrations were best fitted to a bi-exponential curve and the pharmacokinetic variables calculated using a curve stripping program (STRIPE). No significant differences were observed between groups regarding plasma sufentanil concentrations or pharmacokinetic parameters. Our results demonstrate that respiratory alkalosis and dehydration do not alter the pharmacokinetics of sufentanil after intravenous bolus administration. PMID- 2525535 TI - Enhancement of the Arthus reaction and suppression of delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) by pluronic F-68, a detergent frequently used to prepare perfluorocarbon emulsions. AB - The effect of a 20% w/v RM101 (perfluorobutyltetrahydrofuran) emulsion containing 5% w/v of the detergent Pluronic F-68 or 5% w/v Pluronic F-68 given alone on the Arthus reaction and on delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) were evaluated in female A/J mice. The test substances were administered i.v. at 1% body weight at 0,4,7,14 and 28 days prior to the i.p. immunization with 10(7) sheep red blood cells (SRBC). The increase in footpad swelling at 4 h (Arthus reaction) and at 24 h (DTH) after elicitation with the s.c. administration of 10(8) SRBC into the left footpad was used to assess immune competence. Pluronic F-68 given alone enhanced the Arthus reaction only when administered on day 0 of immunization. Pluronic F-68 given alone, as well as the perfluorocarbon emulsion containing Pluronic F-68, suppressed the 24 h DTH for as long as 4 days prior to immunization. Nonemulsified perfluorocarbon, on the other hand, had no effect on either the Arthus reaction or on DTH. The immunostimulatory agent, levamisole, administered (10 mg/kg i.p.) 1.5-2 h prior to immunization with SRBC counteracted both the Arthus reaction and the DTH response produced by Pluronic F-68. The present data clearly demonstrate that the changes in Arthus reaction and the DTH response are due to the Pluronic F-68 used to emulsify the RM101 perfluorocarbon; the changes induced by the detergent in these two immune parameters probably involve separate mechanisms. PMID- 2525536 TI - Renal amyloidosis secondary to acne conglobata. PMID- 2525534 TI - The dipeptide Lys-Pro restores the diminished wound healing following treatment with anti-T-helper cell monoclonal antibody. AB - To determine the role of T-cell subsets in wound healing, we studied the granulation tissue proliferation after depletion of CD4 or CD8 positive cells. Granulation tissue proliferation in CD8-diminished AB mice was significantly higher than in the control group as a result of depleted suppressor cell activity. The CD4-depleted mice produced granulation tissue in less than 30% of the control group. To investigate the role of dipeptidylpeptidase IV on CD4 positive cells in wound healing we used Lys-[Z(NO2)]-Pro, a chemically modified dipeptide which may result by degradation of polypeptides by this peptidase. It was possible to restore the diminished capability of granulation tissue proliferation in CD4-depleted mice by a single treatment with the dipeptide Lys [Z(NO2)]-Pro. Our results suggest that: (i) the CD4 positive T-helper subset regulates wound healing, and (ii) products of degradation by dipeptidylpeptidase IV may bypass T-helper cell function. PMID- 2525537 TI - Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty. Adjunctive treatment of ischemic ulcers. AB - Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty in the lower extremities is often an efficacious and safe adjunct to medical or surgical treatment, or both, of recalcitrant ischemic ulcers. PMID- 2525538 TI - [Therapy with LHRH analogs in a 41-year-old patient with metastatic breast cancer]. PMID- 2525539 TI - Effect of medroxyprogesterone acetate on secondary spreading of endometrial cancer. AB - We examined the effect of medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) on secondary spreading of endometrial cancer. There was no significant difference in the adhering capacity of dispersed Ishikawa cells (derived from well-differentiated endometrial cancer) to a cell basement membrane matrix, fibronectin or laminin between cells treated with MPA, with cortisol, and without treatment. The adhering capacity of cells treated with cortisol to collagen type IV was higher than that without treatment. However, the adhering capacity was little affected by treatment with MPA. These results indicate that although cortisol may induce the initial process of metastasis by inducing the attachment of tumor cells to the basement membrane of vascular endothelium, MPA has no influence on the attachment, although it has a glucocorticoid action similar to that of cortisol. There was no significant difference in tumor angiogenesis factor (TAF) or fibroblast growth factor (FGF) activity of the tumor extract from Ishikawa cell colonies between cortisol-treated and control group. TAF or FGF activity of the MPA-treated group was lower than that of the control group. MPA may reduce the neovascularization in the terminal process of metastasis via the reduction of TAF and FGF produced by tumor cells, in spite of its glucocorticoid action. PMID- 2525540 TI - [Inherited keratosis palmaris without changes of the sole of the foot and keratosis plantaris without changes of the palm of the hand]. AB - The literature available on cases of inherited keratosis palmaris with or without affecting the palms of the hands and cases of inherited keratosis plantaris with or without slight involvement of the soles are presented in tables; as many cases as possible are taken from the literature. The significance of these cases is discussed briefly. PMID- 2525541 TI - [The behavior of membrane receptors of peripheral blood lymphocytes in bullous pemphigoid]. AB - In 35 patients with bullous pemphigoid (BP) various parameters of the cellular immune system were studied. It was shown that the average 29% decrease in the number rosette-forming lymphocytes in sheep red blood cells is converted by the immune complexes and by a second serum factor in the acute stage of BP that has not yet been characterized precisely. These changes were reversible in patients who were placed on immunosuppressants. Obviously, this mechanism is partly due to the binding of immune complexes via Fc receptors on T-lymphocytes and is consequently due to the steral blocking of sheep erythrocyte receptors. No decrease in the number of T-cells was found by means of monoclonal antibodies (CD2, CD3), and the number of suppressor cells was also normal (CD8). On the other hand, the number of T-helper cells increased by an average of 15% (CD4). In addition, in the acute stage, there is a significant increase in the number of activation antigen Tac (CD25) and DR-bearing lymphocytes: 29% and 37% respectively (the normal values are 2% and 11%, respectively). Double staining permitted the phenotype of activated lymphocytes to be detected within the T cells and the T-helper cell subpopulation, respectively. The number of activated T-helper cells correlates with the disease activity, and from that point it seems to be useful as a marker of activity in follow-up studies. PMID- 2525542 TI - [Familial circumscribed plantar keratosis with sensorineural hearing loss and sporadic CHILD syndrome]. AB - The authors report a case of siblings in whom circumscribed plantar keratoderma developed during early childhood. The keratotic areas increased with age and also affected the dorsal aspects of the digital joints. In addition, a markedly progressive disturbance in sound perception occurred in both children from age 4 onwards. This observation confirms the concept proposed by Blanchet-Bardon et al. that focal palmoplantar keratoderma with sensorineural hearing loss constitutes a distinct entity. In addition, the younger sister was affected with the CHILD syndrome. She suffered from linear ichthyosiform nevus with ipsilateral ectrodactyly. The simultaneous occurrence of the two syndromes is probably purely coincidental. PMID- 2525544 TI - Acne masks true beauty. PMID- 2525543 TI - Alloactivated HLA class II-positive T-cell lines induce IL-2 reactivity but lack accessory cell function in mixed leukocyte culture. AB - Recently, much interest has focused on the role of HLA class II antigens in T cell-T cell interactions. We have studied the stimulatory capability in the primary mixed leukocyte reaction and the primed lymphocyte reaction of 11 alloactivated, HLA-DR- or -DP-reactive CD4-positive T-cell lines (Ta). From 70 to 90% of the Ta were HLA class II-positive as judged by the reactions with HLA class II-reactive monoclonal antibodies, and the Ta carried the DR allospecificities of the original T-cell donor when typed in the microcytotoxic test using DR-specific alloantisera. Neither irradiated nor nonirradiated Ta stimulated primed lymphocytes directed against the relevant HLA class II antigens on the Ta. Interferon-gamma, recombinant interleukin 1, phorbol myristate acetate, calcium ionophore, and adherent cells had no effect on the stimulatory capability of Ta. The ability of irradiated Ta to stimulate in the primary mixed leukocyte reaction (median counts per minute (cpm) 5.5 x 10(3] was significantly lower than that of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (cpm: 44.0 x 10(3]. The stimulation by Ta was almost only seen when the Ta were specifically directed against the class II antigens of the responder peripheral blood mononuclear cells (i.e., in combinations with "backstimulation") (median cpm: 21,000). In mixed leukocyte reaction combinations without backstimulation, significantly weaker reactions were seen (median cpm: 1,000). This observation may explain previous controversies concerning the stimulatory capacity of Ta. Recombinant interleukin 2 significantly enhanced the very low mixed leukocyte culture responses induced by class II-incompatible Ta in combinations without backstimulation but had no significant effect on cultures with Ta autologous to the responder peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Thus, allogeneic class II-positive Ta can induce interleukin 2 responsiveness but lack accessory cell function(s) necessary for the induction of interleukin 2 production in primed and unprimed T cells. PMID- 2525546 TI - Exercise testing raises serum cholesterol. PMID- 2525547 TI - In vitro fertilization: an overview. AB - The advanced reproductive technologies are an acceptably safe but invasive method to treat infertility. The decision to proceed with IVF/ET should be based on 1) a complete infertility investigation, 2) an understanding by the couple of the emotional, physical and financial aspects of the process and 3) an understanding by physicians of the real advantages and disadvantages of the procedures. PMID- 2525548 TI - Treatment of acute back pain. PMID- 2525545 TI - Observation of production of immunoactive prolactin by normal human connective tissue in cell culture. AB - Data from our in vitro studies indicate a new source of prolactin (PRL)-like activity, normal human connective tissue. Fascial cells from primary culture and subsequent passages produced an extracellular antigen which specifically reacted in a radioimmunoassay RIA developed to detect human pituitary PRL. An initial peak or first surge of fascial PRL-like activity occurred between 4 and 15 d in primary culture. Ibuprofen, cytotoxic levels of 0.01% azide, or 7.5 mM EDTA and medium lacking serum [fetal bovine serum (FBS)] significantly (P less than or equal to 0.05) reduced PRL-like activity levels, whereas female steroids, 257 to 342 milliosmolarity, 1 to 3.6 mg/ml glucose, 2 to 20% FBS, and dialyzed FBS (MWCO approximately 1 kDa) were without effect. Optimum production of PRL-like activity occurred at pH 7.3. A second surge began after 18 d and continued until passage indicating that perhaps two populations of cells produced PRL-like activity in primary culture. Production of PRL-like activity by cells from early passages (1 and 2) became detectable at confluence, was serum-dependent, showed two patterns (tonic, rising to plateau), and averaged 3.2 fg.cell-1.3 d-1 feed interval. Cells from late passages showed morphologic damage from repetitive trypsinization, aging, and reduced production of PRL-like activity with aberrant production pattern. Production of PRL-like activity was maintained in an unusual long-term culture. These in vitro studies demonstrate the most recently recognized and ubiquitous source of human extrapituitary PRL or PRL-like activity, normal connective tissue (fascia). PMID- 2525549 TI - Medical missions. PMID- 2525550 TI - Ferric reductase activity in Azotobacter vinelandii and its inhibition by Zn2+. AB - Ferric reductase activity was examined in Azotobacter vinelandii and was found to be located in the cytoplasm. The specific activities of soluble cell extracts were not affected by the iron concentration of the growth medium; however, activity was inhibited by the presence of Zn2+ during cell growth and also by the addition of Zn2+ to the enzyme assays. Intracellular Fe2+ levels were lower and siderophore production was increased in Zn2+-grown cells. The ferric reductase was active under aerobic conditions, had an optimal pH of approximately 7.5, and required flavin mononucleotide and Mg2+ for maximum activity. The enzyme utilized NADH to reduce iron supplied as a variety of iron chelates, including the ferrisiderophores of A. vinelandii. The enzyme was purified by conventional protein purification techniques, and the final preparation consisted of two major proteins with molecular weights of 44,600 and 69,000. The apparent Km values of the ferric reductase for Fe3+ (supplied as ferric citrate) and NADH were 10 and 15.8 microM, respectively, and the data for the enzyme reaction were consistent with Ping Pong Bi Bi kinetics. The approximate Ki values resulting from inhibition of the enzyme by Zn2+, which was a hyperbolic (partial) mixed-type inhibitor, were 25 microM with respect to iron and 1.7 microM with respect to NADH. These results suggested that ferric reductase activity may have a regulatory role in the processes of iron assimilation in A. vinelandii. PMID- 2525551 TI - Temperature inhibition of siderophore production in Azospirillum brasilense. AB - The effect of growth at 42 degrees C on the different components of the siderophore-mediated iron transport that are induced by iron limitation in Azospirillum brasilense was examined. Biosynthesis of the siderophore spirilobactin was strongly inhibited (20-fold) by growth at 42 degrees C, whereas the transport of iron by the ferric-spirilobactin transport system and the induction of the iron-regulated outer membrane proteins were unaffected. PMID- 2525553 TI - Natural history and inherited disorders of a lysosomal enzyme, beta hexosaminidase. PMID- 2525552 TI - Characterization of two mutant metJ proteins with reduced, temperature-dependent capacity to regulate Escherichia coli K-12 met regulon elements. AB - At 28 degrees C, but not at 34 or 42 degrees C, strains with the metJ193 allele repressed chromosomal met genes but not a plasmid-borne met promoter. Increasing the metJ193 gene dosage to two copies resulted in overrepression of chromosomal and plasmid-borne met promoters at 28 degrees C. Suppressing the metJ185 amber mutation with supF (tRNATyr) produced the MetJ185F protein. Strains producing MetJ185F repressed chromosomal met promoters but not a plasmid-borne met promoter at 42 degrees C. These are the first known defective MetJ proteins with documented temperature-dependent function. PMID- 2525554 TI - A vacuolar-type ATPase, partially purified from potassium transporting plasma membranes of tobacco hornworm midgut. AB - An azide- and vanadate-insensitive, N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive ATPase has been partially purified from a fraction enriched with potassium transporting goblet cell apical membranes of Manduca sexta larval midgut. The properties of the membrane-bound ATPase activity were identical to those of the ATPase activity of highly purified goblet cell apical membranes (Wieczorek, H., Wolfersberger, M. G., Cioffi, M., and Harvey, W. R. (1986) Biochim. Biophys. Acta 857, 271-281). 90% of the azide- and vanadate-insensitive ATPase activity was solubilized by C12E10, leaving 90% of the contaminating azide-sensitive mitochondrial ATPase activity in the pellet after centrifugation at 100,000 x g for 1 h. After discontinuous sucrose gradient centrifugation of the supernatant at 220,000 x g for 1 h nearly all of the azide- and vanadate-insensitive ATPase activity was found in the 30% sucrose fraction without contaminating azide- or vanadate sensitive ATPase activity. Two prominent bands with relative molecular masses (Mr) of about 600,000 and 900,000, both displaying azide-insensitive and N ethylmaleimide-sensitive ATPase activity, were found in native microgradient polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of the 30% sucrose fraction. The two bands could not be separated by anion exchange chromatography. Denaturation of both bands resulted in the same polypeptide pattern (five major bands with Mr 70,000, 57,000, 46,000, 29,000 and 17,000) in sodium dodecylsulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, indicating that they represented oligomers of the same protein unit. Substrate and inhibitor specificities of the partially purified ATPase were similar to those of the membrane-bound ATPase activity, whereas salt selectivity differed partly. Altogether, structural and functional properties of the ATPase strongly resemble those of vacuolar-type ATPases. PMID- 2525555 TI - Biosynthesis of the glycosyl phosphatidylinositol membrane anchor of the trypanosome variant surface glycoprotein. Origin of the non-acetylated glucosamine. AB - Non-acetylated glucosamine is an unusual structural feature shared by all glycosyl phosphatidylinositol (GPI) lipids, including a variety of membrane anchors, the leishmanial lipophosphoglycan, and a mediator of insulin action. We proposed previously a pathway for biosynthesis of glycolipid A, the precursor of the GPI membrane anchor of the trypanosome variant surface glycoprotein (Masterson, W. J., Doering, T. L., Hart, G. W., and Englund, P. T. (1989) Cell 56, 793-800). In this paper we characterize in more detail the initial steps of GPI assembly. The first and committed step in the pathway is the transfer of GlcNAc, from UDP-GlcNAc, to endogenous phosphatidylinositol to form N acetylglucosaminyl phosphatidylinositol (GlcNAc-PI). The GlcNAc-PI is then efficiently deacetylated to form glucosaminyl phosphatidylinositol (GlcN-PI), the substrate for subsequent reactions en route to glycolipid A. PMID- 2525556 TI - Control of glycoprotein synthesis. Detection and characterization of a novel branching enzyme from hen oviduct, UDP-N-acetylglucosamine:GlcNAc beta 1-6 (GlcNAc beta 1-2)Man alpha-R (GlcNAc to Man) beta-4-N acetylglucosaminyltransferase VI. AB - Hen oviduct membranes were shown to contain high activity of a novel enzyme, UDP GlcNac:GlcNAc beta 1-6(GlcNAc beta 1-2) Man alpha-R (GlcNAc to Man) beta 4-GlcNAc transferase VI. The enzyme was shown to transfer GlcNAc in beta 1-4 linkage to the D-mannose residue of GlcNAc beta 1-6 (GlcNAc beta 1-2) Man alpha-R where R is either 1-6Man beta-(CH2)8COOCH3 or methyl. Radioactive enzyme products were purified by several chromatographic steps, including high performance liquid chromatography, and structures were determined by proton nmr, fast atom bombardment-mass spectrometry, and methylation analysis to be GlcNAc beta 1-6 ([14C]GlcNAc beta 1-4) (GlcNAc beta 1-2) Man alpha-R. The enzyme is stimulated by Triton X-100 and has optimum activity at a relatively high MnCl2 concentration of about 100 mM; Co2+, Mg2+, and Ca2+ could partially substitute for Mn2+. A tissue survey demonstrated high GlcNAc-transferase VI activity in hen oviduct and lower activity in chicken liver and colon, duck colon, and turkey intestine. No activity was found in mammalian tissues. Hen oviduct membranes cannot act on GlcNAc beta 1-6Man alpha-R but have a beta 4-GlcNAc-transferase activity that converts GlcNAc beta 1-2Man alpha-R to GlcNAc beta 1-4(GlcNAc beta 1-2) Man alpha R where R is either 1-6Man beta-(CH2)8COOCH3 or 1-6Man beta methyl. The latter activity is probably due to GlcNAc-transferase IV which preferentially adds GlcNAc in beta 1-4 linkage to the Man alpha 1-3 arm of the GlcNAc beta 1-2Man alpha 1-6(GlcNAc beta 1-2Man alpha 1-3)Man beta 1-4GlcNAc beta 1-4GlcNAc-Asn core structure of asparagine-linked glycans. The minimum structural requirement for a substrate of beta 4-GlcNAc-transferase VI is therefore the trisaccharide GlcNAc beta 1-6(GlcNAc beta 1-2) Man alpha-; this trisaccharide is found on the Man alpha 6 arm of many branched complex asparagine-linked oligosaccharides. The data suggest that GlcNAc-transferase VI acts after the synthesis of the GlcNAc beta 1 2Man alpha 1-3-, GlcNAc beta 1-2Man alpha 1-6-, and GlcNAc beta 1-6 Man alpha 1-6 branches by GlcNAc-transferases I, II, and V, respectively, and is responsible for the synthesis of branched oligosaccharides containing the GlcNAc beta 1 6(GlcNAc beta 1-4)(GlcNAc beta 1-2)Man alpha 1-6Man beta moiety. PMID- 2525557 TI - Chondroitin sulfate and heparan sulfate proteoglycans of PC12 pheochromocytoma cells. AB - We have isolated and characterized the cell-associated and secreted proteoglycans synthesized by a clonal line of rat adrenal medullary PC12 pheochromocytoma cells, which have been extensively employed for the study of a wide variety of neurobiological processes. Chondroitin sulfate accounts for 70-80% of the [35S] sulfate-labeled proteoglycans present in PC12 cells and secreted into the medium. Two major chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans were detected with molecular sizes of 45,000-100,000 and 120,000-190,000, comprising 14- and 105-kDa core proteins and one or two chondroitin sulfate chains with an average molecular size of 34 kDa. In contrast to the chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans, one major heparan sulfate proteoglycan accounts for most of the remaining 20-30% of the [35S] sulfate labeled proteoglycans present in the PC12 cells and medium. It has a molecular size of 95,000-170,000, comprising a 65-kDa core protein and two to six 16-kDa heparan sulfate chains. Both the chondroitin sulfate and heparan sulfate proteoglycans also contain O-glycosidically linked oligosaccharides (25-28% of the total oligosaccharides) and predominantly tri- and tetraantennary N glycosidic oligosaccharides. Proteoglycans produced by the original clone of PC12 cells were compared with those of two other PC12 cell lines (B2 and F3) that differ from the original clone in morphology, adhesive properties, and response to nerve growth factor. Although the F3 cells (a mutant line derived from B2 and reported to lack a cell surface heparan sulfate proteoglycan) do not contain a large molecular size heparan sulfate proteoglycan species, there was no significant difference between the B2 and F3 cells in the percentage of total heparan sulfate released by mild trypsinization, and both the B2 and F3 cells synthesized cell-associated and secreted chondroitin sulfate and heparan sulfate proteoglycans having properties very similar to those of the original PC12 cell line but with a reversed ratio (35:65) of chondroitin sulfate to heparan sulfate. PMID- 2525558 TI - Outer arm dynein from trout spermatozoa. Purification, polypeptide composition, and enzymatic properties. AB - Extraction of isolated axonemes from trout (Salmo gairdneri) sperm with 0.6 M NaCl removed 97% of the outer arms, approximately 12% of the protein, and approximately 50% of the MgATPase activity. Fractionation of this high salt extract by sucrose density gradient centrifugation yielded a single peak of ATPase activity with an apparent sedimentation coefficient of 19 S. Electrophoretic analysis showed that this 19 S particle was composed of two heavy chains (termed alpha and beta; Mr 430,000 and 415,000, respectively), five intermediate molecular weight chains (IC1-IC5; Mr 85,000, 73,000, 65,000, 63,000, and 57,000), and six light chains (LC1-LC6; Mr 22,000-6,000). A similar complex was obtained following further purification by DEAE-Sephacel column chromatography. Quantitative densitometry of Coomassie Blue-stained gels indicated that the heavy and intermediate chains were present in equimolar amounts. Electron microscopic examination of the 19 S particles revealed that it consisted of two globular heads joined together by a Y-shaped stem. The 19 S particle had a specific MgATPase activity of 1.1 +/- 0.3 mumol of phosphate released/min/mg and exhibited an apparent Km for MgATP2- of 40 +/- 16 microM. MnATP2- and CaATP2- were hydrolyzed at rates 100 and 80% that of MgATP2-, respectively. The Mg-ATPase activity was inhibited by vanadate, but not by ouabain or oligomycin, and exhibited a high activity between pH 7.0 and 10.0 with a maximum at pH 9.0-9.5. ATP was the preferred nucleotide, although GTP and CTP (but not ITP) did interact with the dynein to a minor extent. Based on its origin, sedimentation coefficient, polypeptide composition, and enzymatic properties, we conclude that this two-headed 19 S particle represents the entire trout sperm axonemal outer arm dynein. This dynein is probably exemplary of the outer arm dyneins of other vertebrates. PMID- 2525559 TI - Alteration by heat shock and immunological characterization of Drosophila small nuclear ribonucleoproteins. AB - Sera from human patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have been shown to react with snRNP particles of both mammals and Drosophila (Mount, S. M. and J. A. Steitz. 1981. Nucleic Acids Res. 9:6351-6368). We have utilized fully characterized monospecific sera and specifically purified antibodies to carry out indirect immunofluorescence experiments with frozen sections of Drosophila embryos. Embryos subjected to severe heat shock before sectioning showed reduced binding of anti-Sm sera. Anti-nRNP sera reacted identically with antigens of heat shocked and non-heat-shocked sections. The reduction in anti-Sm fluorescence was restored by a brief salt wash. These results imply a noncovalent alteration in the conformation of Sm antigens with the administration of heat shock that can revert with exposure to salt. Drosophila antigens have been compared to mammalian standards, showing partial identity with bovine spleen extract (BSE) antigens when reacted with anti-Sm sera. The antigenic relatedness between affinity purified heat-shocked and non-heat-shocked Drosophila antigens and their mammalian homologues was examined by quantitative ELISA methodology. In all cases, the Drosophila antigens from heat-shocked and non-heat-shocked embryos were identical. We theorize that the heat shock-induced alteration of Sm antigen reverst during extraction. Because the snRNP antigens have been shown to be involved in splicing, and because splicing is inhibited during heat shock (Yost, H. J., and S. Lindquist. 1986. Cell. 45:185-193), our results provide information on the nature and stability of a change in these antigens which may be a central element in control of the heat shock response. PMID- 2525560 TI - Impaired lysosomes in a temperature-sensitive mutant of Chinese hamster ovary cells. AB - We describe here the properties of a mutant of Chinese hamster ovary cells that expresses a conditional-lethal mutation affecting dense lysosomes. This mutant, termed V.24.1, is a member of the End4 complementation group of temperature sensitive mutants selected for resistance to protein toxins (Colbaugh, P. A., C. Y. Kao, S.-P. Shia, M. Stookey, and R. K. Draper. 1988. Somatic Cell Mol. Genet. 14:499-507). Vesicles present in postnuclear supernatants prepared from V.24.1 cells harvested at the restrictive temperature had a 50% reduction in acidification activity, assessed by the ATP-stimulated accumulation of the dye acridine orange in acidic vesicles. To investigate whether specific populations of vesicles were impaired in acidification, we measured acidification activity in three subcellular fractions prepared from Percoll gradients: one containing endosomal and Golgi markers, one containing buoyant lysosomes, and the third containing dense lysosomes. Activity in dense lysosomes was reduced by 90%, activity in the buoyant lysosome fraction was unaffected, and activity in the endosome-Golgi fraction was mildly reduced. The activity of three lysosomal enzymes--beta-hexosaminidase, beta-galactosidase, and beta-glucocerebrosidase- was also reduced in dense lysosomes but nearly normal in the buoyant lysosome fraction. However, beta-hexosaminidase and beta-glucocerebrosidase activity was increased two- to threefold in the endosome-Golgi fraction. We conclude that the lesion selectively impairs dense lysosomes but has little effect on properties of buoyant lysosomes. PMID- 2525561 TI - An investigation of mitochondrial inner membranes by rapid-freeze deep-etch techniques. AB - Physical fixation by rapid freezing followed by freeze-fracture and deep-etching has provided the means for potentially seeing the three-dimensional arrangement in the native state of particles on mitochondrial inner membranes. We have used these techniques to study the tubular cristae of Paramecium in the hope of determining the arrangement of F1 complexes, their abundance, and location in the membranes. We also sought information regarding other respiratory complexes in these membranes. Our results, supported by stereo pairs, show that F1 complexes are arranged as a double row of particles spaced at 12 nm along each row as a zipper following the full length of the outer curve of the helically shaped tubular cristae. There are an average of 1,500 highly ordered F1 complexes per micrometer squared of 50-nm tubular cristae surface. The F1 complexes definitely lie outside the membranes in their native state. Other particle subsets, also nonrandomly arrayed, were seen. One such population located along the inner helical curve consisted of large 13-nm-wide particles that were spaced at 30 nm center-to-center. Such particles, because of their large size and relative abundance when compared to F1 units, resemble complex I of the respiratory complexes. Any models attempting to understand the coupling of respiratory complexes with F0F1 ATPase in Paramecium must take into account a relatively high degree of order and potential immobility of at least some of these integral membrane complexes. PMID- 2525562 TI - Microtubule translocation properties of intact and proteolytically digested dyneins from Tetrahymena cilia. AB - Tetrahymena cilia contain a three-headed 22S (outer arm) dynein and a single headed 14S dynein. In this study, we have employed an in vitro assay of microtubule translocation along dynein-coated glass surfaces to characterize the motile properties of 14S dynein, 22S dynein, and proteolytic fragments of 22S dynein. Microtubule translocation produced by intact 22S dynein and 14S dynein differ in a number of respects including (a) the maximal velocities of movement; (b) the ability of 22S dynein but not 14S dynein to utilize ATP gamma S to induce movement; (c) the optimal pH and ionic conditions for movement; and (d) the effects of Triton X-100 on the velocity of movement. These results indicate that 22S and 14S dyneins have distinct microtubule translocating properties and suggest that these dyneins may have specialized roles in ciliary beating. We have also explored the function of the multiple ATPase heads of 22S dynein by preparing one- and two-headed proteolytic fragments of this three-headed molecule and examining their motile activity in vitro. Unlike the single-headed 14S dynein, the single-headed fragment of 22S dynein did not induce movement, even though it was capable of binding to microtubules. The two-headed fragment, on the other hand, translocated microtubules at velocities similar to those measured for intact 22S dynein (10 microns/sec). This finding indicates that the intact three headed structure of 22S dynein is not essential for generating microtubule movement, which raises the possibility that multiple heads may serve some regulatory function or may be required for maximal force production in the beating cilium. PMID- 2525563 TI - The distribution, abundance and subcellular localization of kinesin. AB - An antiserum which binds kinesin specifically on Western blots was used to determine the distribution and abundance of chicken kinesin by correlated immunoblotting and immunolocalization. Quantitative immunoblotting showed that the abundance of kinesin varied widely in different cell and tissue types, from 0.039% of total protein in epidermal fibroblasts to 0.309% in sympathetic neurons; of the types examined, only red blood cells lacked detectable kinesin. The molar ratio of tubulin/kinesin varied over a narrower range. To analyze the intracellular distribution of kinesin, cultured fibroblasts were fractionated by sequential extraction with saponin-, Triton X-100-, and SDS-containing buffer. Quantitative blotting of the resulting cell fractions indicated that 68% of fibroblast kinesin is in soluble form, 32% is membrane- or organelle-associated, and none is detectable in cytoskeletal fractions. To visualize this distribution, cells treated by the same extraction protocol were immunofluorescently stained with antikinesin and antitubulin. Without extraction, kinesin staining was located throughout cultured neurons and fibroblasts. However, when fibroblasts were extracted with saponin or Brij 58 before fixation, subsequent staining revealed that the remaining kinesin fraction was colocalized with interphase microtubules, but not with mitotic spindles. Prefixation extraction with Triton abolished antikinesin staining. These data suggest that kinesin may play a role in tubovesicular movement but provide no evidence for a role in mitosis. PMID- 2525564 TI - The 110-kD protein-calmodulin complex of the intestinal microvillus (brush border myosin I) is a mechanoenzyme. AB - The 110-kD protein-calmodulin complex (110K-CM) of the intestinal brush border serves to laterally tether microvillar actin filaments to the plasma membrane. Results from several laboratories have demonstrated that this complex shares many enzymatic and structural properties with myosin. The mechanochemical potential of purified avian 110K-CM was assessed using the Nitella bead motility assay (Sheetz, M. P., and J. A. Spudich. 1983. Nature (Lond.). 303:31-35). Under low Ca2+ conditions, 110K-CM-coated beads bound to actin cables, but no movement was observed. Using EGTA/calcium buffers (approximately 5-10 microM free Ca2+) movement of 110K-CM-coated beads along actin cables (average rate of approximately 8 nm/s) was observed. The movement was in the same direction as that for beads coated with skeletal muscle myosin. The motile preparations of 110K-CM were shown to be free of detectable contamination by conventional brush border myosin. Based on these and other observations demonstrating the myosin like properties of 110K-CM, we propose that this complex be named "brush border myosin I." PMID- 2525565 TI - Effect of scatter factor on motility of epithelial cells and fibroblasts. AB - The scatter factor is a protein released by fibroblasts that causes dispersal of epithelial cell colonies and disruption of intercellular junctions, as well as an alteration of morphology with ruffling and rapid extension and movement of pseudopodia. To find out if the scatter factor has a direct effect on cell migration, the Boyden chamber assay was used to determine the effect of partially purified factor on the migration of cells through 8 microns pore size filters. The results showed that the mobility of Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells was stimulated, and usually maximal at 100 ng per ml, which is equivalent to 100 to 200 units of activity in the standard assay based on the morphology and arrangement of cells. The migration was due to chemotaxis and chemokinesis. A keratinocyte cell line was also sensitive as were, to a lesser extent, BSCl monkey kidney cells. The motility of freshly isolated fibroblasts and fibroblast cell lines, however, was not significantly affected. The results confirm the cell specificity and paracrine role of the scatter factor and show that this fibroblast-derived molecule can directly stimulate the movement of epithelial cells. PMID- 2525566 TI - A cerebral vasoconstrictive effect of some adenosine analogues. A study of adenosine analogues on local cerebral blood flow and glucose utilisation in the rat. AB - Local CBF (LCBF) in the rat was determined using [14C]iodoantipyrine autoradiography. Adenosine and 5'-(N-ethyl)carboxamidoadenosine in a 15-min infusion had no significant effect on LCBF, although there was a tendency to increase. N6-Cyclohexyladenosine (CHA) and 2-chloroadenosine (2-CADO) significantly decreased LCBF in a number of brain regions. Laser-Doppler experiments using CHA confirmed that CHA decreased CBF and that this change was monophasic. Further experiments involving the use of [14C]2-deoxyglucose autoradiography showed that the unexpected vascular effects of CHA and 2-CADO were not a consequence of a decreased metabolic demand. The available data do not allow us to identify the mechanism of action by which the known vasodilators CHA and 2-CADO were able to cause a vasoconstriction and a decrease in LCBF. PMID- 2525568 TI - Complete reversibility of physiological coronary vascular abnormalities in hypertrophied hearts produced by pressure overload in the rat. AB - Using an experimental model of ascending aortic banding in the rat, we examined whether coronary circulation abnormalities in hypertrophied hearts are reversible after debanding. 4-wk banding produced significant increases in in vivo left ventricular (LV) pressure (194 +/- 13 vs. 114 +/- 9 mmHg in shamoperated controls) and LV dry wt/body wt (48 +/- 5% above controls). In isolated hearts perfused with Krebs-Henseleit buffer, coronary flow rate (CFR) was estimated under nonworking conditions. During maximal vasodilation after 1 min-ischemia, CFR at a coronary perfusion pressure (CPP) of 100 mmHg and CFR/myocardidial mass at CPPs of 100 and 150 mmHg decreased significantly (72 +/- 5%; 53 +/- 4 and 61 +/- 4% of controls). 1 or 4 wk after debanding, LV systolic pressures were similar to control values, and the degree of myocardial hypertrophy decreased to levels 23 +/- 6 (P less than 0.01) and 11 +/- 6% (P less than 0.01) above their control values, respectively. At 1 wk there was no significant increase in CFR/myocardial mass, compared to values in the banded group (67 +/- 8 vs. 53 +/- 4% of controls at 100 mmHg and 67 +/- 9 vs. 61 +/- 4% at 150 mmHg of CPP). At 4 wk, CFR and the ratio had increased toward normal. Thus, decreased coronary perfusion in hypertrophied hearts is completely reversible. PMID- 2525569 TI - The relationship between cluster and liquid simplification and sentence length, age, and IQ in Down's syndrome children. AB - Twenty-two Down's syndrome children who were 6 years, 6 months to 12 years, 7 months of age were tested to assess the relationships among cluster reduction, liquid simplification and sentence length, age, and IQ. Sentence length was found to be the primary predictor of cluster reduction and liquid simplification in the articulatory productions of Down's syndrome children. The liquid /r/ was generally more difficult than the liquid /l/ for the subjects. PMID- 2525570 TI - Presentation level determination for CV tokens using a computer-controlled adaptive procedure. AB - The feasibility of using a computer-controlled adaptive procedure to find maximum monotic performance for consonant-vowel (CV) stimuli was evaluated and compared to the procedure typically used to determine a performance-intensity function in two experiments. In experiment I, the computer-controlled adaptive procedure and the typical manual procedure were evaluated on 26 normally hearing listeners. Results indicated that the shape of the performance-intensity functions was similar for both procedures with the computer-controlled adaptive procedure selecting a higher presentation level. The test-retest reliability for the computer-controlled adaptive procedure was good with a mean difference on retest of 1.2 dB. In experiment II, the same procedures were evaluated using 9 sensorineural hearing impaired subjects. Again similar configuration between functions was observed. The primary advantage of the computer-controlled adaptive procedure for both subject groups is efficiency in terms of time of administration and number of CV stimuli used. PMID- 2525567 TI - Secretory pancreatic stone protein messenger RNA. Nucleotide sequence and expression in chronic calcifying pancreatitis. AB - The pancreatic stone protein and its secretory form (PSP-S) are inhibitors of CaCO3 crystal growth, possibly involved in the stabilization of pancreatic juice. We have established the structure of PSP-S mRNA and monitored its expression in chronic calcifying pancreatitis (CCP). A cDNA encoding pre-PSP-S has been cloned from a human pancreatic cDNA library. Its nucleotide sequence revealed that it comprised all but the 5' end of PSP-S mRNA, which was obtained by sequencing the first exon of the PSP-S gene. The complete mRNA sequence is 775 nucleotides long, including 5'- and 3'- noncoding regions of 80 and 197 nucleotides, respectively, attached to a poly(A) tail of approximately 125 nucleotides. It encodes a preprotein of 166 amino acids, including a prepeptide of 22 amino acids. No overall sequence homology was found between PSP-S and other pancreatic proteins. Some homology with several serine proteases was observed in the COOH-terminal region, however. The mRNA levels of PSP-S, trypsinogen, chymotrypsinogen, and colipase in CCP and control pancreas were compared. PSP-S mRNA was three times lower in CCP than in control, whereas the others were not altered. It was concluded that PSP-S gene expression is specifically reduced in CCP patients. PMID- 2525571 TI - Disability and coping as predictors of psychological adjustment to rheumatoid arthritis. AB - Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients have been identified as a medical population at risk for psychological disorder, largely because of the pain and functional disability that are the hallmarks of the disease. This study examined the degree to which self-reported functional disability and coping efforts contribute to psychological adjustment among adult RA patients over a 6-month period. Adaptive outcomes included maintaining a sense of worth, mastery, and positive affect despite the illness. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses indicated that increases in disability were related to decreased acceptance of illness and increased negative affect. Coping efforts were related to increases in positive affect. The findings provide modest support for the role individual coping efforts play in shaping illness-related outcomes. Although disability is not easily reversed, knowledge about coping strategies that moderate its psychological impact may provide a useful basis for designing psychological interventions to promote adjustment. PMID- 2525572 TI - District nursing, the disabled and the elderly: who are the black patients? AB - Community care research in central Birmingham has shown that disabled and old black people are under-represented on the caseloads of district nurses compared to their white counterparts. Whilst factors suggested as contributing to this (service ethnocentrism and general practitioners as 'gate-keepers') are discussed elsewhere, this paper focuses on those few old and disabled black people who are district nurse patients. Following comparisons between these black and white patient groups, the differing perspectives of black patient and district nurse are explored. Stereotypes and myths, knowledge about each other and language/communication are discussed as important areas which may disadvantage black patients in their interaction with district nurses. Attention is drawn to the urgent need for district nursing to address the issue of black disabled and old people in the community and the accompanying central role of research. PMID- 2525574 TI - Caesium levels in manic depressive psychosis. AB - Concentrations of caesium were estimated in hair, whole blood, serum and urine by neutron activation analysis, in samples from manic patients, depressed patients, recovered manic patients, recovered depressed patients and normal controls. There was no difference in the concentration of caesium measured between the various diagnostic categories. These results contradict the findings of previous reports. PMID- 2525573 TI - Familial analysis of panic disorder and agoraphobia. Gruppo Italiano Disturbi d'Ansia. AB - In this paper we studied the distribution of age at onset in 144 patients with panic disorder (PD) and/or agoraphobia (according to DSM-III criteria). We also investigated the incidences in their first-degree relatives of PD, agoraphobia, affective disorders, other anxiety disorders and alcoholism. Our aim was to detect the existence of a specific susceptibility system in these families, considering a wide spectrum of disorders. We found an earlier onset of PD and agoraphobia in the subgroup of our probands who previously met criteria for a separation anxiety disorder in childhood. The presence of both separation anxiety disorder and agoraphobia in the probands increased the familial risk for PD and agoraphobia. Nevertheless, the main finding appeared to be the specific familial concentration of agoraphobia, a disorder exclusively clustered in families of agoraphobic patients. PMID- 2525575 TI - The effect of age on cortisol and plasma dexamethasone concentrations in depressed patients and controls. AB - The aim of this study was to identify any relationships between various patient factors such as age, gender and concurrent medication that may affect plasma cortisol or dexamethasone (DEX) concentrations. Multiple regression analysis was used to formulate an equation to predict plasma DEX levels to identify factors that may influence DEX bioavailability. Pre- and post-DST cortisol levels did not increase with age, but DEX levels were higher in elderly depressed patients. Neither gender nor psychotropic medication affected plasma cortisol or DEX levels. There was no indication that pre-DST cortisol levels influenced plasma DEX levels to account for the lower DEX values in non-suppressors. Age was the only significant factor found in this study to influence DEX levels and it could be argued that the dose of DEX should be lowered when administering the DST to elderly patients to reduce plasma DEX variability. PMID- 2525576 TI - Onset of response in relation to outcome in depressed outpatients with placebo and imipramine. AB - We have retrospectively analyzed the results of the pooled data from three 6-week placebo controlled double blind phase III clinical trials, initially designed to assess the efficacy of newer antidepressants, in order to study the relationship of early onset improvement with later outcome in 145 depressed outpatients receiving placebo (n = 98) or imipramine (n = 47). The early onset response was seen in a subgroup of subjects receiving either imipramine or placebo and appeared to be independent of treatment assignment. Furthermore, the early onset response predicted outcome for the duration of the trial and was not selective as defined by specific changes in subscales measuring insomnia, anxiety or endogenous features. Exclusion of early onset responders resulted in the augmentation of the difference in outcome with drug and placebo. We recommend that future placebo controlled trials assessing therapeutic efficacy of active treatments in depressed outpatients take into account the early onset response in the analysis of results. PMID- 2525577 TI - Psychophysiological correlates of 'bipolarity'. AB - Four hundred patients with major affective disorders were divided into six groups based on lifetime composite evaluations of the intensity, frequency, and duration of their high energy-positive mood states. This division was termed degree of 'bipolarity'. Within the non-bipolar I patients (groups 1-4) the rating of 'bipolarity' was found to be significantly positively associated with enuresis, classical migraine, Raynaud's disease, learning disorders, fingernail biting, and episodic phenomena. The possible significance of this non-bipolar I 'bipolarity' continuum construct is discussed. A significant discontinuity was found between 'bipolarity' groups 5/6 and group 4 in six of the 14 psychophysiologic conditions evaluated. PMID- 2525578 TI - Self-esteem, life stress and psychiatric disorder. AB - Using a special subsample from a survey of women in Edinburgh investigations were carried out into (a) which types of life event are associated with lowered self esteem; (b) the role of life events and self-esteem in onset of psychiatric disorder; and (c) the additional significance of prior psychiatric consultation in determining onset. Stressors involving impaired relationships with others were the only ones clearly associated with lowered self-esteem. Minor psychiatric illness was predicted by stress of uncertain outcome, and, to a lesser extent, by impaired relationship stress. Onset of major depression was best predicted by an interaction between total stress experienced and low self-esteem. There was evidence that such onset involves a pre-existing low level of self-esteem on which life stress impinges, rather than life stress generating low self-esteem and then onset. A small group of subjects characterised by low self-esteem, prior psychiatric consultation and maladaptive coping seemed to be fluctuating in and out of psychiatric illness irrespective of stress. PMID- 2525579 TI - Gender, marital status and treated affective disorders in South Verona: a case register study. AB - Data from the South Verona Psychiatric Case Register were used to test hypotheses about the relationship between age, gender, marital status and the incidence of treated affective disorders. Analysis of the 5-year period 1983-1987 yielded overall rates of affective disorder per 10(5) of 57.7 for males and 78.4 for women. Incidence increased with age both for depressive neurosis and for affective psychosis. Married women had high rates compared with their single counterparts whereas the reverse was true for men. The very low values for incidence are likely to reflect the major role in the treatment of affective disorders carried out by Italian general practitioners, rather than a low population rate of these disorders. PMID- 2525580 TI - Effects of glucocorticoids on the regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary somatotropic system in depression. AB - In order to evaluate the possible effect of glucocorticoids as neuromodulators of the hypothalamic-pituitary-somatotropic system in depression, cortisol, growth hormone (GH), and insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) concentrations were studied before and after oral administration of 1 mg dexamethasone at 11 p.m. in 16 patients during depression and after recovery and in 28 healthy controls. While there were no significant differences in GH and IGF-I levels between depressed, recovered and control subjects, GH and IGF-I concentrations of cortisol non-suppressors were significantly elevated compared to suppressors. Moreover, post-dexamethasone cortisol, GH, and IGF-I levels were positively correlated. Dexamethasone had a stimulating effect on GH and IGF-I values in patients during depression and in cortisol non-suppressors only; this effect was absent in recovered and in control subjects and in cortisol suppressors. Thus, hypercortisolemia may be of great importance for the dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-somatotropic system reported in depression. PMID- 2525581 TI - Mania induced by lorazepam withdrawal: a report of two cases. AB - Although depression is a well recognised component of the benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome there have, as yet, been no convincing reports of mania. We report two cases of mania induced by abrupt discontinuation of lorazepam. Both cases were treated by reintroduction of the benzodiazepine followed by gradual dose reduction. PMID- 2525583 TI - Neuron-binding antibodies in Alzheimer's disease and Down's syndrome. AB - We used an indirect immunoperoxidase technique (Avidin-Biotin system) to study the sera of patients with "clinically probable" Alzheimer's disease (AD) and with Down's Syndrome (DS), compared with age-matched controls. Diluted sera were incubated with paraffin sections of hippocampus, frontal, temporal, and parieto occipital lobes from normal human brains. Biotinylated anti-human goat gamma globulins were used as secondary antisera. A significantly greater percentage of neurons were immunostained in all the brain regions (frontal, temporal, and parieto-occipital lobes and hippocampus) incubated with sera of AD patients than with sera of DS patients or of controls. This indicates that AD patients have an excess of circulating neuron-binding antibodies (NBAs), mainly reacting with cytoplasmic structures. NBAs could be either the cause or the result of the cerebral lesion found in AD. This study is not able to answer this question, but some previous data from our own and other laboratories suggest that NBAs have a role in the pathogenesis of AD lesions. Since we found no increase of NBAs in DS patients, the brain lesions in DS appear to have a different pathogenesis. PMID- 2525582 TI - Increased plasma fibrinopeptide A levels during attacks induced by hyperventilation in patients with coronary vasospastic angina. AB - Plasma fibrinopeptide A levels, beta-thromboglobulin levels and platelet factor 4 levels were estimated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay before and after hyperventilation in 12 patients with coronary vasospastic angina and in 12 control subjects matched for age and gender. In all 12 study patients, anginal attacks accompanied by electrocardiographic (ECG) changes (ST elevation in 11 patients and ST depression in 1 patient) were induced by hyperventilation. Coronary angiography was performed on 11 of the 12 patients, and coronary artery spasm with the same ECG changes was induced by intracoronary injection of acetylcholine in all 11. The plasma fibrinopeptide A levels increased significantly from 2.0 +/- 0.4 to 10.0 +/- 2.4 ng/ml during the attack (p less than 0.001) in the study patients, but remained unchanged before and after hyperventilation in the control subjects. The plasma levels of beta thromboglobulin and platelet factor 4 remained unchanged after hyperventilation in both groups. Our data indicate that coronary artery spasm may induce thrombin generation and trigger thrombus formation in the coronary artery. PMID- 2525584 TI - Neonatal suppression with anti-Ia antibody. III. In vivo responses to the type 2 antigen TNP-Ficoll. AB - We studied the response to thymus-independent type 2 (type 2) Ag in mice suppressed from birth with anti-Ia antibody. Although these mice have significantly reduced numbers of surface IgM+ cells and reduced or absent levels of Ia-restricted Th cell activity, their IgM antibody response to the type 2 Ag TNP-Ficoll was unaffected whereas that to the prototypic thymus-dependent Ag SRBC was predictably eliminated. These data suggest that an in vivo antibody response can be made to type 2 Ag in the absence of Ia-dependent cellular interactions. The surface IgM+IgD-Ia- B cells that are found in the anti-Ia antibody-suppressed mouse may represent an expanded population of Ia-independent, type 2 Ag-sensitive B cells normally present as a smaller proportion of the splenic lymphocyte population. Thymus-dependent responses, which have been shown to have an absolute requirement for an Ia-dependent interaction, are absent in these animals. PMID- 2525585 TI - Functional analysis of cloned macrophage hybridomas. VII. Modulation of suppressor T cell-inducing activity. AB - We have previously characterized a macrophage hybridoma clone, termed clone 59, which induced immunity but consistently failed to induce Ts responses. Macrophage 59 cells were cultured with supernatants from several activated T cell clones to determine if lymphokines could modulate the activity of this macrophage hybridoma to generate effector Ts. Culture supernatants from Th1 clones and from one atypical IL-4 and IFN-gamma-producing T cell clone successfully modulated clone 59 cells to induce effector Ts cells. In contrast, supernatants from activated Th2 cells failed to generate Ts-inducing activity in macrophage 59 cells. Culture with recombinant derived IFN-gamma was sufficient to cause modulation of Ts inducing activity in macrophage 59 cells. The data imply that the differential functional activities ascribed to various macrophage hybridoma clones reflect macrophage heterogeneity instead of independent macrophage lineages. The suppression induced by clone 59 macrophages was genetically restricted to the putative I-J region. The ability of IFN-gamma containing supernatants to endow macrophage 59 with the capacity to induce effector suppressor cells was specifically abrogated by addition of an anti-IJk-idiotype antibody, which also reacts with IJ-interaction molecules, indicating that the mechanism of modulation most likely involves expression of IJ-interaction molecule determinants on antigen presenting cells. PMID- 2525586 TI - Activation of T lymphocytes through the Ly-6 pathway is defective in A strain mice. AB - The Ly-6 alloantigens have been shown to participate in the process of T cell activation based on the ability of anti-Ly-6 mAb to induce IL-2 production and proliferation of T lymphocytes. In the present investigation we have demonstrated that peripheral T lymphocytes from A strain mice exhibited abnormally low proliferative responses after stimulation through Ly-6A/E and Ly-6C molecules when compared to responses of T cells from numerous other mouse strains. The abnormal activation of the Ly-6 pathway of A strain T cells was not due to ineffective FcR cross-linking of the anti-Ly-6 mAb, to inappropriate cellular expression of the Ly-6A/E alloantigen in A strain T cells, or to an active suppressive phenomenon. T lymphocytes from A strain mice proliferated normally when the cells were activated by mAb to Thy-1 or the CD3/TCR complex suggesting that A strain mice did not exhibit a generalized T cell activation defect. Cell separation studies of T cells and accessory cells demonstrated that this defect was quantitative, rather than qualitative, and that it was complex, residing at both the T cell and accessory cell levels. These results suggest that activation of T lymphocytes via the Ly-6 molecule may involve a signaling pathway and/or cell-cell interactions distinct from those required for optimal activation via CD3/TCR. PMID- 2525587 TI - Murine natural suppressor cells in the newborn, in bone marrow, and after cyclophosphamide. Genetic variations and dependence on IFN-gamma. AB - Natural suppressor (NS) cells are potent, Ag nonspecific, MHC-unrestricted inhibitors of immune responses. Murine NS activity is found in several situations, including adult bone marrow (BM) and neonatal/newborn spleen, and spleen following total lymphoid irradiation, after BM transplantation and after cyclophosphamide (CY) treatment. Using three of these situations (adult BM, newborn spleen, and spleen after CY treatment), the strain distribution of NS cell activity was assessed. A wide variation in potency is seen in both naturally occurring (adult BM and newborn spleen) and induced (after CY treatment) NS cell activity. Up to 10-fold differences in NS activity are seen between high and low NS strains. This reflects an intrinsic genetic variation between mouse strains in both naturally occurring and CY-induced NS cell activity. Thus, a strain with high NS activity at birth, has high NS activity in its BM as an adult and in its spleen after CY treatment. Of the strains tested, B10.D2 has the highest NS cell activity while BALB/c has the lowest, and the F1 between these two strains is intermediate in NS activity. Finally, the NS cell activity from all strains tested required IFN-gamma for expression of its inhibitory activity. PMID- 2525588 TI - Proteolysis induces increased binding affinity of the monocyte type II FcR for human IgG. AB - Human monocytes express two types of IgG FcR, Fc gamma RI and Fc gamma RII. These can be assayed by using indicator E sensitized by human IgG (EA-human IgG) or mouse IgG1, (EA-mouse IgG1), respectively. On mouse macrophages, Fc gamma RI is sensitive to trypsin, whereas Fc gamma RII is trypsin resistant. We studied the effects of the proteolytic enzymes pronase and trypsin on human monocyte Fc gamma R. Neither enzyme caused a decrease in rosetting mediated by monocyte Fc gamma RI. Human Fc gamma RII is polymorphic, and monocytes interact either strongly or weakly with mouse IgG1. The interaction of low responder monocytes with mouse IgG1 was dramatically increased (to the level exhibited by high responder monocytes) by protease treatment. The effects of proteases on Fc gamma RII were investigated in more detail by using monocytes from which Fc gamma RI was selectively modulated by using immobilized immune complexes. Proteolysis of such modulated monocytes induced an increased interaction with EA-human IgG. Fc gamma RII appears to mediate this interaction. This conclusion is supported by the observation that after proteolysis, the Fc gamma RII-mediated binding of EA-mouse IgG1 becomes susceptible to inhibition by (monomeric) human IgG. To quantify the effect of proteolytic enzymes on Fc gamma RII, we performed binding studies with cell line K562, that expresses only Fc gamma RII. A significant increase in Ka of Fc gamma RII for dimeric human IgG complexes was observed when K562 cells were treated with protease. To elucidate the mechanism of this enhancement of Ka by proteolysis, we performed immunoprecipitation studies. Neither m.w., nor IEF pattern of Fc gamma RII were influenced by proteolysis. Moreover, the expression of Fc gamma RII was not affected by proteolysis as evidenced by immunofluorescence studies and Scatchard analysis, and neither were Fc gamma RI or Fc gamma RIII induced. We conclude that proteolysis increases the affinity of Fc gamma RII for human IgG, and speculate that such a proteolysis-induced change may also occur in vivo, e.g., at inflammatory sites. PMID- 2525590 TI - CR1, the C3b receptor, mediates binding of infective Leishmania major metacyclic promastigotes to human macrophages. AB - The role of complement receptors on monocyte derived human macrophages in phagocytosis of infective (MP) and noninfective (LP) developmental stages of Leishmania major promastigotes was studied. We compared binding of these specific developmental stages to MO after preincubation in fresh or heat-inactivated serum. Although LP do not require fresh serum for attachment, MP were dependent on serum C opsonization for entry. Inhibition of CR1 substantially abolished binding of the infective MP. In contrast, inhibition of iC3bR (CR3 and p150,95) had no effect on MP binding. Inhibition of both iC3bR, however, did block binding of nonopsonized LP. Attachment of LP to CR3 was blocked by fluid phase addition of mAb OKM1 and M1/70, which inhibit complement-independent binding to CR3, but not by mAb OKM10 which inhibits iC3b binding to this receptor. After fresh serum pretreatment of LP, however, only simultaneous inhibition of CR3 and CR1 effectively blocked their attachment. Addition of mannan did not inhibit attachment of either promastigote stage. Both opsonized and nonopsonized LP trigger a respiratory burst in MO, possibly via the C independent site in CR3, whereas the CR1-mediated uptake of MP does not generate a respiratory burst. The use of this receptor by MP may facilitate their subsequent intracellular survival. PMID- 2525589 TI - Monocyte suppressor factor is plasminogen activator inhibitor inhibition of membrane bound but not soluble IL-1. AB - Human monocytes cultured in monolayer for 6 days were found to secrete a factor that suppressed the T cell proliferative response to soluble Ag and to alloantigens. The elaboration of this monocyte suppressor factor (MSF) was not inhibited by indomethacin. It has an apparent Mr of 50 to 60 kDa. It does not inhibit soluble IL-1 in the murine thymocyte costimulator assay but does inhibit the activity of membrane bound IL-1, which we observed to be almost exclusively IL-1 alpha. MSF contains elevated amounts of plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI) when measured either as bioactivity or in an ELISA. Its immunosuppressive properties are inhibited by anti-PAI antibody. Furthermore, the eluate but not the effluent of an anti-PAI immunoabsorbent column contains all of the immunosuppressive activity. Based on these data we suggest that MSF is, in fact, PAI and postulate that the mechanism of action is inhibition of the plasmin cascade, thereby preventing the release of membrane bound IL-1. This suggests that monocytes possess an autoregulatory circuit that may have implications for the kinetics of the inflammatory response. PMID- 2525591 TI - Prospective study of cutaneous drug reactions. AB - One hundred and seventy-five patients with cutaneous drug reactions were studied with regard to age, sex, possible causative drugs and clinical course of the reactions. The age of the patients ranged from 3 to 78 years old, with the common occurrence between the age of 20 to 30 years. Females outnumbered males at a proportion of 1.8:1. The maculopapular rash was the most common reaction, which accounted for 42.9 per cent of the patients. Fixed drug eruption and Stevens Johnson syndrome were the second and third common occurrences. The eruptions were attributed to 45 drugs, the three most common causative drugs were ampicillin, penicillin and trimethoprim-sulphamethoxazole. Ampicillin was the most common drug that caused maculopapular rash whereas tetracycline and trimethoprim sulphamethoxazole were responsible for fixed drug eruption and Stevens-Johnson syndrome respectively. The drug eruption occurred within a few minutes to 3 weeks of beginning therapy. The eruptions lasted from 3 to 30 days depending on the type of reactions. PMID- 2525592 TI - Percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty (PTRA) in patients with renal artery stenosis. PMID- 2525593 TI - On the representation of events: a study of orientation, recall, and recognition. AB - Examined the representation of real-world events in memory as a function of orientation toward a videotaped sequence in which 2 people play a board game. In 4 experiments, analyzed subjects' segmentation of the videotaped sequence into events, using a technique developed by Newtson (1973). A comparison of segmentation patterns with performance on recognition, recall, and cued-recall tasks indicated that recall of events changed as a function of subjects' orientation toward the videotape, whereas recognition of events did not. The authors conclude that orientation toward an episodic sequence affects how rather than what events are represented in memory. An account of how orientation might affect the encoding and the representation of events is offered. PMID- 2525594 TI - Varieties of size-specific visual selection. AB - Compared time to evaluate stimuli of varying sizes. When Ss expect an upcoming stimulus to be a certain size, response time increases with the disparity between expected and actual size. There are, however, 2 size adjustment processes, and they reflect 2 types of visual selection. In the first, a shape-specific image representation is used to separate a visual object from a superimposed distractor. These representations require the type of slow size scaling demonstrated in imagery experiments. The second size scaling process is faster and not shape-specific. At any given time the visual system is set to process information at a particular scale, and that scale can be adjusted to match an object's size. Because both selection mechanisms depend on size, they probably occur at a relatively low, spatially organized processing level. These findings lead to a new explanation for results that had been taken as evidence for attentional selection at the level of object representations. PMID- 2525595 TI - Functional theory of illusory conjunctions and neon colors. AB - Illusory conjunctions are the incorrect perceptual combination of briefly presented colors and shapes. In the neon colors illusion, achromatic figures take on the color of an overlaid grid of colored lines. Both illusions are explained by a theory that assumes (a) poor location information or poor spatial resolution for some aspects of visual information and (b) that the spatial location of features is constrained by perceptual organization. Computer simulations demonstrate that the mechanisms suggested by the theory are useful in veridical perception and they are sufficient to produce illusory conjunctions. The theory suggests mechanisms that economically encode visual information in a way that filters noise and fills in missing data. Issues related to neural implementation are discussed. Four experiments illustrate the theory. Illusory conjunctions are shown to be affected by objective stimulus organization, by subjective organization, and by the linguistic structure of ambiguous Hebrew words. Neon colors are constrained by linguistic structure in the same way as illusory conjunctions. PMID- 2525596 TI - Mechanisms of imagery-perception interaction. AB - A number of different research findings have shown that mental imagery can affect the perceptual processing of stimuli. The present research was aimed at characterizing the representations and processes underlying imagery-perception interactions. In four experiments, subjects mentally projected images of letters into the visual field, and either detected or detected and localized point threshold stimuli that fell on or off the image. Stimuli falling on the image were detected more often than stimuli falling off the image, consistent with the hypothesis that the representations at the interface between imagery and perception have an array format. When the facilitation was analyzed in terms of signal detection theory, it was found to consist only of criterion lowering, and not of enhanced sensitivity. The local criterion-lowering effect of imaged letters was then compared with the effect of perceiving a letter and attending to a letter. Perceiving a letter had no discernible effect on stimulus detection, whereas attending to the letter caused the same local criterion lowering, without sensitivity changes, as imaging the letter. This is consistent with the claims of Neisser (1976) and others that imagery is an attentional state. PMID- 2525597 TI - Similarity relations among synesthetic stimuli and their attributes. AB - Four experiments examined the similarity relations that exist among bimodal attributes that correspond synesthetically (e.g., white color and high pitch) and among stimuli formed by combining these attributes either congruently (e.g., white/high, black/low) or incongruently (e.g., white/low, black/high). Previous research suggests two hypotheses: (a) Synesthetic stimuli are compared as wholes on the basis of their overall similarity, and (b) nonidentical congruent stimuli are more dissimilar than nonidentical incongruent stimuli. In these four experiments, similarity among either individual attributes (Experiments 1 and 4) or bimodal stimuli (Experiments 2 and 3) was measured by either ratings or response latencies; similarity judgments were scaled with an individual differences scaling procedure (SINDSCAL). Stimulus comparisons were fit well by a Euclidean but not a city-block metric, supporting the overall similarity hypothesis. However, there was little evidence that subjects perceived congruity/incongruity among stimulus wholes, even though subjects were sensitive to correspondence/noncorrespondence among attributes. These results were replicated in four additional experiments using larger stimulus sets. A two process account is proposed in which stimulus formation (intersensory processing) occurs independently of the abstraction of cross-sensory meaning (figurative processing). PMID- 2525598 TI - Mechanisms of short-term saccadic adaptation. AB - A number of processes have been identified that adaptively modify oculomotor control components. The adaptive process studied here can be reliably produced over a short period of time by a visual stimulus that forces postsaccadic error. This short-term adaptive process, usually termed parametric adaptation, consists of a change in response amplitude that develops progressively over 50 to 100 training stimuli. The resulting compensation is proportional to, but substantially less than, the error induced by the training stimuli. Both increases and decreases in response amplitude can be evoked by an appropriately timed and directed movement of the stimulus target, which forces postsaccadic error. Results show that a single type of training stimulus can influence movements over a broad spatial region, provided these movements are in the same direction as the training stimulus. Experiments that map the range of modification suggest that the increasing adaptive modification operates by remapping final position, whereas the decreasing adaptive modification is achieved through an overall reduction of gain. Training stimuli that attempt to evoke both increases and decreases in the same region show a net modification equivalent to the algebraic addition of individual adaptive processes. PMID- 2525599 TI - Regression to egocentrically determined description of form under conditions of inattention. AB - Although, ordinarily, upright objects are readily recognized by observers who are tilted, it is hypothesized that this is achieved by a process of correction. The first stage of that process is held to be a description of the object in relation to the biologically more primitive system of retinal coordinates. In order to test this hypothesis, tilted subjects were required to view figures under conditions of inattention (Experiment 1) or divided attention (Experiment 2). Under such conditions description may not proceed beyond that first stage. The results showed that recognition was higher for figures that maintained their orientation with respect to the retina (although they were then tilted in the environment) than for figures that remained upright in the environment (although they were then disoriented with respect to the retina). This outcome is the very opposite of what occurs under conditions of attention. PMID- 2525600 TI - Types and tokens in visual letter perception. AB - Five experiments demonstrate that in briefly presented displays, subjects have difficulty distinguishing repeated instances of a letter or digit (multiple tokens of the same type). When subjects were asked to estimate the numerosity of a display, reports were lower for displays containing repeated letters, for example, DDDD, than for displays containing distinct letters, for example, NRVT. This homogeneity effect depends on the common visual form of adjacent letters. A distinct homogeneity effect, one that depends on the repetition of abstract letter identities, was also found: When subjects were asked to report the number of As and Es in a display, performance was poorer on displays containing two instances of a target letter, one appearing in uppercase and the other in lowercase, than on displays containing one of each target letter. This effect must be due to the repetition of identities, because visual form is not repeated in these mixed-case displays. Further experiments showed that this effect was not influenced by the context surrounding the target letters, and that it can be tied to limitations in attentional processing. The results are interpreted in terms of a model in which parallel encoding processes are capable of automatically analyzing information from several regions of the visual field simultaneously, but fail to accurately encode location information. The resulting representation is thus insufficient to distinguish one token from another because two tokens of a given type differ only in location. However, with serial attentional processing multiple tokens can be kept distinct, pointing to yet another limit on the ability to process visual information in parallel. PMID- 2525601 TI - Reflexive and voluntary orienting of visual attention: time course of activation and resistance to interruption. AB - To study the mechanisms underlying covert orienting of attention in visual space, subjects were given advance cues indicating the probable locations of targets that they had to discriminate and localize. Direct peripheral cues (brightening of one of four boxes in peripheral vision) and symbolic central cues (an arrow at the fixation point indicating a probable peripheral box) were compared. Peripheral and central cues are believed to activate different reflexive and voluntary modes of orienting (Jonides, 1981; Posner, 1980). Experiment 1 showed that the time courses of facilitation and inhibition from peripheral and central cues were characteristic and different. Experiment 2 showed that voluntary orienting in response to symbolic central cues is interrupted by reflexive orienting to random peripheral flashes. Experiment 3 showed that irrelevant peripheral flashes also compete with relevant peripheral cues. The amount of interference varied systematically with the interval between the onset of the relevant cue and of the distracting flash (cue-flash onset asynchrony) and with the cuing condition. Taken together, these effects support a model for spatial attention with distinct but interacting reflexive and voluntary orienting mechanisms. PMID- 2525602 TI - Mapping musical thought to musical performance. AB - Expressive timing methods are described that map pianists' musical thoughts to sounded performance. In Experiment 1, 6 pianists performed the same musical excerpt on a computer-monitored keyboard. Each performance contained 3 expressive timing patterns: chord asynchronies, rubato patterns, and overlaps (staccato and legato). Each pattern was strongest in experienced pianists' performances and decreased when pianists attempted to play unmusically. In Experiment 2 pianists performed another musical excerpt and notated their musical intentions on an unedited score. The notated interpretations correlated with the presence of the 3 methods: The notated melody preceded other events in chords (chord asynchrony); events notated as phase boundaries showed greatest tempo changes (rubato); and the notated melody showed most consistent amount of overlap between adjacent events (staccato and legato). These results suggest that the mapping of musical thought to musical action is rule-governed, and the same rules produce different interpretations. PMID- 2525603 TI - Perception of three-dimensional structure from optic flow without locally smooth velocity. AB - A common assumption in several analyses of optic flow is that the velocity field must be locally smooth in order to recover relative depth and the structure of surfaces in the environment. This study investigated the appropriateness of this constraint to human perception. In the first experiment, subjects were asked to identify the number of planes present in a display simulating one, two, three, four, or five overlapping, transparent planes. Subjects were able to detect the presence of up to three planes accurately for both horizontal and depth translations. In the second experiment, subjects' judgments of the depth separation of two transparent, overlapping planes increased with the simulated separation. In Experiment 3, subjects were able to determine accurately the sign of depth for two overlapping, transparent surfaces. These results suggest that a smoothness constraint is not required for the analysis of optic flow by human observers. Alternative approaches to the analysis of optic flow are discussed. PMID- 2525604 TI - Understanding collision dynamics. AB - In two experiments we investigated people's ability to judge the relative mass of two objects involved in a collision. It was found that judgments of relative mass were made on the basis of two heuristics. Roughly stated, these heuristics were (a) an object that ricochets backward upon impact is less massive than the object that it hit, and (b) faster moving objects are less massive. A heuristic model of judgment is proposed that postulates that different sources of information in any event may have different levels of salience for observers and that heuristic access is controlled by the rank ordering of salience. It was found that observers ranked dissimilarity in mass on the basis of the relative salience of angle and velocity information and not proportionally to the distal mass ratio. This heuristic model was contrasted with the notion that people can veridically extract dynamic properties of motion events when the kinematic data are sufficient for their specification. PMID- 2525605 TI - Understanding natural dynamics. AB - When making dynamical judgments, people can make effective use of only one salient dimension of information present in the event. People do not make dynamical judgments by deriving multidimensional quantities. The adequacy of dynamical judgments, therefore, depends on the degree of dimensionality that is both inherent in the physics of the event and presumed to be present by the observer. There are two classes of physical motion contexts in which objects may appear. In the simplest class, there exists only one dynamically relevant object parameter: the position over time of the object's center of mass. In the other class of motion contexts, there are additional object attributes, such as mass distribution and orientation, that are of dynamical relevance. In the former class, objects may be formally treated as extensionless point particles, whereas in the latter class some aspect of the object's extension in space is coupled into its motion. A survey of commonsense understandings showed that people are relatively accurate when specific dynamical judgments can be accurately based on a single information dimension; however, erroneous judgments are pervasive when simple motion contexts are misconstrued as being multidimensional, and when multidimensional quantities are the necessary basis for accurate judgments. PMID- 2525606 TI - Inhibitors of asparagine-linked oligosaccharide processing alter the kinetics of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. AB - We used selective inhibitors of the asparagine-linked oligosaccharide processing pathway to study the effect of sugar trimming on the functional properties of the nicotinic acetylcholine (ACh) receptor expressed in clonal mammalian BC3H-1 cells. Inhibitors of initial steps of the processing pathway (1 deoxynojirimycin[DNJ] and castanospermine[CS]) reduced the density of ACh receptors on the cell surface (3- to 5-fold) but their responsiveness to ACh was more reduced (5- to 10-fold). These results suggest that the function of the ACh receptor was altered. When the ACh receptors were expressed in the presence of DNJ or CS, analysis of ACh-evoked single-channel currents (-100 mV and 11 degrees C) revealed an approximate threefold reduction in the opening rate (control: 600 650 s(-1)), treated: 130-250 s(-1)) and an approximate twofold reduction in the rate of agonist dissociation (control: 900-1,000 s(-1), treated: 400-500 s(-1)). In addition, the proportion of brief duration bursts (tau = 50-100 microseconds) was increased (1.5- to 2-fold) by treatments with DNJ or CS. In contrast, an inhibitor of a late processing step (swainsonine) did not produce such alterations. The single-channel conductance was not altered by any of the three inhibitors, and the slopes of log-log dose-response curves at low concentrations and desensitization did not appear to be affected. Each inhibitor altered the electrophoretic mobility of the ACh receptor subunits. We conclude that early sugar trimming can influence the kinetics of the nicotinic ACh receptor in BC3H-1 cells. PMID- 2525607 TI - Endocrine functions in Huntington's disease. A two-and-a-half years follow-up study. AB - An oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was performed in 1985 in 10 patients with Huntington's disease (HD), while 10 healthy age-matched volunteers served as controls. Two-and-a-half years later, in 1988, 8 of the original 10 patients were reinvestigated. Apart from glucose, insulin and growth hormone (sampled at 30 min intervals) the following parameters of endocrine function were assessed: C peptide (at times 0 and 60 min), glycosylated haemoglobin (HbAlc), somatomedin-C, and basal prolactin. In 1985 one female patient was considered to have impaired glucose tolerance, and this same patient, as well as another male patient, had a paradoxical rise in GH secretion. None of the other measurements of endocrine function differed significantly from control. In 1988 the HD patients had clinically deteriorated significantly, as measured by the Shoulson and Fahn Scale. Six of them completed a repeat OGTT. Of these 6, the same female as in 1985 showed impaired glucose tolerance. Now none of the participants had a paradoxical GH rise. The HD patients did not show any deterioration of the parameters of glucose metabolism, nor of GH secretion. The basal prolactin level, however, decreased significantly in these 2.5 years, from 9.3 +/- 3.2 micrograms/l to 6.1 +/- 3.0 micrograms/l (P less than 0.01). PMID- 2525608 TI - Predictors of physical disability in elderly blacks and whites of the Charleston Heart Study. AB - During the 1984/85 recall of the Charleston Heart Study Cohort, physical function data were obtained for 247 white males, 376 white females, 123 black males, 247 black females and 71 high socioeconomic status (SES) black males over 60 years of age. Black females had the highest prevalence of physical disability (55.8%), followed by white females (43.2%), black males (39.0%) and white males (25.8%) and high SES black males (22.3%). Physical disability was 1.5-2.5 times as prevalent among individuals with a history of cardiovascular disease (CVD) than those without such a history. Among individuals without a current history of CVD univariate analyses showed the following as significant (lower 95% CI greater than 1.0) predictors of physical disability: elevated systolic blood pressure in white females, black males, and black females; elevated cholesterol in black females; obesity in black females; and low educational level in white females. Regression analyses indicated that obesity in 1960 accounted for 10.9 and 2.9% respectively of the variability in physical disability scores in 1985 for black females and white females. PMID- 2525609 TI - The effect of subarachnoid hemorrhage on blood and CSF atrial natriuretic factor. AB - Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) is a diuretic natriuretic peptide hormone produced by both the heart and brain which has been postulated to play a role in the hemodynamic and sodium instability that frequently follows subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Levels of ANF were measured in 12 patients with nontraumatic SAH and nine control patients with unruptured cerebral aneurysms. At surgery, the mean plasma ANF level (+/- standard deviation) of the SAH group was significantly higher than that of the control group (158.1 +/- 83.8 vs. 57.8 +/- 45.3 pg/ml, respectively; p = 0.01). There was no significant difference in serum sodium concentration, blood pressure, or central venous pressure between these groups. Nine patients with SAH due to aneurysm rupture had plasma ANF levels similar to those in three patients with SAH due to other causes. Four patients with moderate to severe SAH had significantly higher mean cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) ANF values (17.7 +/- 12.8 pg/ml) than five patients with minimal SAH (0.6 +/- 0.9 pg/ml) or the control group of nine patients (3.7 +/- 1.3 pg/ml) (p less than 0.05). Five patients with moderate to severe SAH had significantly higher plasma ANF values (202.6 +/- 72.2 pg/ml) than five with minimal SAH (86.8 +/- 29.2 pg/ml) or the control group (57.8 +/- 45.3 pg/ml) (p less than 0.05). Plasma ANF values were substantially higher than CSF ANF content in the SAH group (p less than 0.01) and in the control group (p = 0.05). From these data it is concluded that: 1) plasma ANF is elevated significantly after SAH; 2) this rise appears unrelated to the cause of hemorrhage, serum sodium concentration, blood pressure, or central venous pressure, but is related to the extent of the hemorrhage; 3) ANF concentrations in the CSF are significantly lower than in plasma, and are elevated after moderate to severe SAH; and 4) the source of CSF ANF is probably the plasma, and the source of plasma ANF is likely the heart. PMID- 2525611 TI - Bone SPECT in patients with persistent back pain after lumbar spine surgery. AB - Twenty-five patients with persistent pain after lumbar spine surgery for pain were evaluated by single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) bone scanning. The patients were divided into three groups, depending on the type of surgery performed. The data obtained indicates that lumbar spine SPECT is most useful in conditions where there is the greatest likelihood of instability. The study shows that the improved contrast and better three-dimensional patient information gained through lumbar spine SPECT permits more accurate delineation of the level of maximum instability and stress on the vertebra. PMID- 2525610 TI - Technetium-99m hexakis 2-methoxyisobutyl isonitrile: human biodistribution, dosimetry, safety, and preliminary comparison to thallium-201 for myocardial perfusion imaging. AB - The biodistribution, dosimetry, and safety of a new myocardial imaging agent, 99mTc-hexakis-2-methoxyisobutyl isonitrile (HEXAMIBI), was evaluated in 17 normal volunteers at rest and exercise (Phase I studies). Technetium-99m HEXAMIBI clears rapidly from the blood with good myocardial uptake and favorable myocardial-to background ratios for myocardial imaging. Dosimetry allows for administration of up to 30 mCi (1, 110 Bq) of [99mTc]HEXAMIBI. The myocardial images were of good quality and appeared less granular with sharper myocardial walls compared to 201T1 images. The clinical efficacy of [99mTc]HEXAMIBI planar stress and rest imaging was evaluated in a multicenter Phase II clinical trial involving 38 patients. Of 36 patients with significant coronary artery disease, 35 patients (97%) had abnormal 201T1 stress images, and 32 (89%) had abnormal [99mTc]HEXAMIBI stress images (P = N.S.). Technetium-99m HEXAMIBI images correlated in 31/35 patients (86%) who had either scar or ischemia on 201T1 images. By segmental myocardial analysis, exact concordance was obtained in 463/570 myocardial segments (81%). This multicenter Phase I and II study indicates that planar [99mTc]HEXAMIBI stress imaging is safe and compares well with 201T1 stress imaging for detection of coronary artery disease. PMID- 2525614 TI - A neonate having a left-sided gastroschisis. PMID- 2525612 TI - Platelet and fibrin metabolism in recipients of the Jarvik 7 total artificial heart. AB - Recipients of the total artificial heart are at risk for device-related thrombus formation and thromboembolism. Platelet and fibrin metabolism was studied in four patients who received the Jarvik 7 total artificial heart as a bridge to transplantation and in eight patients after orthotopic heart transplantation. Platelet activation was assessed by measurement of plasma levels of beta thromboglobulin, fibrin formation by fibrinopeptide A, and fibrinolysis by cross linked fibrin degradation products. These markers were increased after surgery with only minimal differences between the two patient groups for the first 3 days. In comparison to heart transplant patients, these markers remained elevated in artificial heart recipients despite anticoagulation therapy. beta Thromboglobulin levels did not decrease in two artificial heart recipients who received aspirin. Markers of platelet and fibrin activity were greatly increased in one artificial heart recipient who had impaired inflow into the device, was not anticoagulated because of bleeding, and had extensive device-related thrombus on explantation. Plasma markers of platelet and fibrin metabolism provide biochemical assessment of in vivo thrombus activity in artificial heart recipients. Monitoring these markers may provide an additional means of guiding anticoagulation therapy in patients with artificial hearts and assessing interventions designed to reduce device-related thrombus formation. PMID- 2525613 TI - DNA marker studies show that Machado Joseph disease is not an allele of the Huntington disease locus. AB - Machado Joseph Disease (MJD) is a progressive spinocerebellar atrophy (SCA) with an autosomal dominant mode of inheritance. On the basis of some similarities in the clinical features and in the abnormal profiles of brain proteins, it has been suggested that MJD might be an allele of the Huntington Disease (HD) locus. Using the DNA probe (pK082), we analyzed the linkage between the DNA marker locus D4S10 and the MJD locus in two large kindreds. The data exclude linkage between these two loci at a distance of 10 cm (Z = - 2.02). Since the D4S10 locus is linked to the HD locus at a distance of approximately 4 cm, we conclude that MJD is not an allele of the HD locus. PMID- 2525615 TI - Necrotizing enterocolitis following repair of gastroschisis. PMID- 2525617 TI - Management of intestinal atresia complicating gastroschisis. AB - In a personal series of 22 patients referred with gastroschisis, five (23%) had intestinal atresia. The records of these patients seen over the past 12 years have been studied in order to elucidate the correct management of their complex problems. The indications for primary anastomosis or stoma formation probably depend upon the degree of damage and dilatation of the preatretic intestine at its initial presentation. In patients with a high jejunal or proximal ileal atresia, primary anastomosis should be attempted, but if the dilatation is severe, intestinal decompression may be required. In patients with distal ileal or colonic atresias, the establishment of a stoma and secondary closure is the treatment of choice. PMID- 2525616 TI - Dura versus Gore-Tex as an abdominal wall prosthesis in an open and closed infected model. AB - Occasionally, it is necessary to use prosthetic material to close large abdominal wall defects in infected, potentially infected, or open wounds. We compared the effectiveness of Gore-Tex (PTFE, W.L. Gore & Associates, Flagstaff, AZ) and dura for closing large, full thickness abdominal wall defects in terms of resistance to infection, patch separation, and intraperitoneal adhesion formation. Ninety guinea pigs had full thickness, 2 cm2, abdominal defects patched with either PTFE or dura. The skin was (A) left open (B) closed over the patch under aseptic conditions, or (C) closed after wound contamination with 10(5) CFU of staphylococcus aureus. Wounds were examined daily and the wound and peritoneal cavity examined at necropsy (day 45). Patch separation, patch retention, and adhesions were similar in both open (A), and clean closed (B) wounds patched with PTFE or dura. In the infected closed wounds (C) of the PTFE animals, the incision remained intact significantly longer, the time of patch separation and overall patch retention were significantly increased, and bowel adhesions were significantly reduced compared to dura animals. PMID- 2525618 TI - An alternative treatment modality in closing bladder exstrophy: use of rectus abdominus muscle flap--preliminary results in a rat model. AB - The aim of this study was to find a new alternate method for bladder exstrophies with small capacity and inelasticity, and to resolve complications of other bladder augmentation techniques. In 50 Wistar albino rats, a large bladder defect was created excising at least one half of their original bladder, keeping the peritrigonal zone intact. In each rat, a 2.5 x 1-cm inferiorly based rectus abdominus muscle flap was prepared from the lower abdominal quadrant. This flap was then rotated to cover the bladder defect. The inner layer formed by the peritoneum was sutured to the edges of the bladder defect by 6-0 separate sutures. The post-operative radiologic and scintigraphic examination of the urinary system done at different intervals showed no difference from that of normal rats. The only observed disadvantage of this technique was the formation of calculi in the bladder in 8/50 rats in the late post-operative period. Post mortem histopathologic investigations performed at different intervals showed the inner layer of the flap to be completely covered by the transitional urinary epithelium of the bladder. We think this technique is easy to perform, non-time consuming, and has a low complication rate. It may be useful in infants with small, noncompliant, inelastic bladder exstrophies. PMID- 2525619 TI - Defective neutrophil chemotaxis in Down's syndrome patients and its relationship to periodontal destruction. AB - The degree of defective neutrophil chemotaxis in patients with Down's syndrome (DS) and its relationship to the severity of periodontal disease were studied. Fourteen patients with DS and 14 healthy controls were examined. Oral hygiene, gingival inflammation, and pocket depths were measured in clinical surveys. Bone loss was evaluated on the oral radiographs. Neutrophil chemotaxis was measured by the agarose plate method and the Boyden chamber method. The chemotactic index of the agarose plate method and the mean numbers of migrated cells of the Boyden chamber method were correlated with statistical significance (rs = 0.066, P less than 0.01). DS patients showed significantly lower chemotaxis than healthy volunteers with both methods. No difference was shown between the two groups in the random migration of the neutrophils. From the oral radiographic analysis, the DS patients exhibited various prevalence of bone loss which was inversely proportional to the chemotactic index and a significant correlation between them was shown (rs = -0.612 P less than 0.05). A significant correlation was also found between the age of the patient and the prevalence of bone loss (rs = 0.591 P less than 0.05). These results indicate that defective neutrophil chemotaxis influences the progression of periodontal disease in DS patients. PMID- 2525620 TI - Effect of low-protein diet on alveolar bone loss in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. AB - The present study demonstrated that hyperglycemic diabetic rats fed a low-protein (8%) diet maintained an alveolar bone height similar to controls; in contrast, those fed a standard protein diet (24%) had reduced alveolar bone height (P less than 0.05). Euglycemic diabetic and untreated control rats fed low-protein diets did not have significant differences in alveolar bone height compared to those fed standard protein diets. There was no evidence of gingival or periodontal inflammation or osteoclastic bone resorption at the alveolar crest in any animal studied. Thus, (1) hyperglycemic diabetic rats have significant alveolar bone loss in the absence of periodontal inflammation (P less than 0.001) and (2) this bone loss can be alleviated by diet (P less than 0.05). This data, taken together with previous studies on the effects of low-protein diet on the kidney, suggest that relieving the protein load on the diabetic kidney in poorly controlled diabetics is beneficial to the longevity of that organ, as well as the preservation of alveolar bone surrounding the teeth. PMID- 2525621 TI - (+/-)-7-chloro-8-hydroxy-1-(4'-[125I]iodophenyl)-3-methyl-2,3,4,5- tetrahydro-1H 3-benzazepine: a potential CNS D-1 dopamine receptor imaging agent. AB - Synthesis, radiolabeling, and in vitro and in vivo properties of an iodinated benzazepine, (+/-)-7-chloro-8-hydroxy-1-(4'-[125I]iodophenyl)-3- methyl-2,3,4,5 tetrahydro-1H-3-benzazepine, [125I]FISCH, as a potential imaging agent for evaluation of central nervous system (CNS) D-1 dopamine receptors in humans, were investigated. After an iv injection, this benzazepine derivative showed good brain uptake in rats (2.27, 1.40, 0.55% dose/whole brain at 2, 15, and 60 min, respectively). The striatum/cerebellum ratio was high (2.47 at 60 min after the injection). The binding affinity of this agent in rat striatum tissue preparation displayed a Kd of 1.43 +/- 0.15 nM. Competition data (in vitro) showed the following rank order of potency: SCH-23390 greater than (+/-)-FISCH greater than (+/-)-IBZP much greater than apomorphine greater than WB 4010 greater than ketanserin approximately spiperone. The preliminary data suggest that the agent is highly selective for the CNS D-1 receptor. PMID- 2525622 TI - Different options for prenatal testing for Huntington's disease using DNA probes. AB - The discovery of DNA markers closely linked to the gene for Huntington's disease (HD) has allowed development of predictive and prenatal testing programmes for HD. This report describes four different approaches to prenatal testing for HD which have arisen during a pilot predictive and prenatal testing program in British Columbia, Canada. In the first approach (exclusion testing), the at risk parent cannot or prefers not to learn of his/her HD status. Two other approaches involve definitive testing of a fetus when a parent is determined to be at increased risk to have inherited the HD gene or is affected with Huntington's disease. The fourth approach is a stepwise combination of the above two methods which we refer to as 'exclusion-definitive' testing. These different approaches introduce a variety of challenging counselling and ethical issues. The role of each approach to prenatal testing in the management of Huntington's disease awaits the results of this and other predictive and prenatal testing programmes. PMID- 2525623 TI - Chromosome studies of males in an institution for the mentally handicapped. AB - Karyotypes were examined in 512 (91.9%) of 557 male patients in an institution for the mentally handicapped. A total of 110 (21.5%) had an abnormal karyotype: 65 (12.7%) with Down's syndrome, 30 (5.9%) with the fragile X syndrome, 13 (2.5%) with autosomal anomalies other than Down's syndrome (12 unbalanced, one balanced), and two (0.4%) with sex chromosome anomalies. PMID- 2525624 TI - Humoral and cellular immune dysfunction in a patient with Bloom's syndrome and recurrent infections. AB - Immunological evaluation of a patient with Bloom's syndrome (BS) who suffered from recurrent bacterial and fungal infections, revealed low serum levels of IgG and high levels of IgM accompanied by an elevated proportion of surface membrane IgM positive B-lymphocytes and a decreased proportion of IgG positive B-cells. In vitro IgG secretion was also reduced whereas IgM production was normal. Although proportions of T-cell subsets were normal and proliferative responses to T-cell mitogens were adequate, a defective regulatory T-cell function for the generation of IgG was observed. Natural killer (NK) cell activity against K562 tumor cells was also decreased in this patient. The findings in this patient may suggest a maturation arrest of lymphocytes at an early developmental stage, and this may explain in part the increased susceptibility to infections. PMID- 2525625 TI - DNA sequence, organization and regulation of the qa gene cluster of Neurospora crassa. AB - In Neurospora, five structural and two regulatory genes mediate the initial events in quinate/shikimate metabolism as a carbon source. These genes are clustered in an 18 x 10(3) base-pair region as a contiguous array. The qa genes are induced by quinic acid and are coordinately controlled at the transcriptional level by the positive and negative regulators, qa-1F and qa-1S, respectively. The DNA sequence of the entire qa gene cluster has been determined and transcripts for each gene have been mapped. The qa genes are transcribed in divergent pairs and two types of transcripts are associated with each gene: basal level transcripts that initiate mainly from upstream regions and are independent of qa regulatory gene control, and inducible transcripts that initiate downstream from basal transcripts and are dependent on qa-1F binding to a 16 base-pair sequence. We discuss how both types of transcription relate to the organization of the qa genes as a cluster and how this may impose constraints on gene dispersal. PMID- 2525626 TI - Dispelling fatalism in a cause-and-effect world: 1989 Eastern Association for the Surgery of Trauma presidential address. PMID- 2525627 TI - Clinical significance of atrial natriuretic peptide in different diseases of the nose. AB - Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) levels of nasal secretion and blood plasma were measured in 40 patients with chronic nasal conditions and 20 healthy subjects by a sensitive radioimmunoassay. In the healthy subjects, the mean blood ANP level was lower than, but not parallel with, the mean nasal ANP level (p less than 0.05). Among the patients, the blood ANP levels were higher in those with nasal polyposis, atrophic rhinitis and nasal allergy, while lower in simple rhinitis and recurrent epistaxis, than in the control group. Apart from nasal polyposis, all the patients were found to have a lower level of nasal ANP. The conclusion is that the nose may be capable of producing ANP independently from the plasma level. In patients with chronic nasal obstructive disease, the endocrine function of the heart is affected also. The relationship of the plasma and nasal ANP may help to explain some rhinological abnormalities. PMID- 2525628 TI - From the Centers for Disease Control. Guidelines for prophylaxis against Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia for persons infected with human immunodeficiency virus. PMID- 2525629 TI - Adieu! Guinea worm. PMID- 2525630 TI - Effects of atrial natriuretic peptide on regional renal blood flow measured by a thermal diffusion technique. AB - The effects of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) on the regional renal blood flow were examined in anesthetized dogs. A thermal diffusion technique was applied in an attempt to observe the intrarenal blood distribution. Tissue blood flow was continuously measured according to the changes of the thermal gradient produced by a semiconductor (Peltier effect). The data (x) obtained by these probes were closely related to those (y) of the ion gas clearance method (the probe for cortical blood flow; y = 1.08x-6.23 r = 0.99, the probe for medullary blood flow; y = 1.00x +0.26 r = 0.99). The basal values of cortical and medullary blood flows measured with the flow probe in anesthetized mongrel dogs were 85 +/- 16 and 55 +/- 9 ml/min/100 g kidney weight, respectively. ANP was infused into renal artery at doses of 0.01 (n = 6), 0.05 (n = 8), 0.3 (n = 6) micrograms/kg/min and the effect on renal hemodynamics and renal excretory functions was observed. The effect was also compared with that of furosemide. Low dose of ANP did not affect renal blood distribution. Intermediate dose of ANP selectively increased medullary blood flow from 46 +/- 8 to 62 +/- 7 ml/min/100 g kidney weight, and higher dose significantly increased both cortical and medullary blood flow. ANP produced diuresis and natriuresis in a dose-dependent manner, which was not necessarily related to the changes of intrarenal blood distribution. Furosemide did not affect the renal hemodynamics. Several parameters of renal functions such as lithium and free water clearances, showed changes different from those with ANP infusion.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525631 TI - [Incidence of numbness and pain of the hand, back, lumbar region and feet]. PMID- 2525632 TI - Heparan sulfate proteoglycan of murine glomerular basement membrane: relationship between localization of the core protein and localization of fixed negative charges. AB - Antibodies to a 250,000 molecular weight heparan sulfate proteoglycan (HSPG) core protein purified from PYS-2 cells were prepared in the rabbit. After absorption with laminin, the anti-HSPG serum (AHSPGS) was specific for HSPG by enzyme-linked immunoabsorbent assay (ELISA). Immunoelectron microscopy showed that AHSPGS reacted with the mouse glomerular basement membrane (GBM) or, more precisely, with three HSPG rich layers, i.e., (i) the lamina rara interna in a discrete or interrupted-linear pattern, (ii) the interface between the GBM and the soles of the foot processes, and (iii) the lamina rara externa in a finely discrete pattern. The localization of HSPG in the GBM was very similar to that of the fixed negative charges detected with polyethyleneimine (PEI). When mice were treated with heparitinase, binding of PEI was seen only on the cell surface including the foot process soles (ii) but not in the GBM (i and iii), while the localization of HSPG core protein was unaltered. These results suggest that the localization of the HSPG core protein was correlated with that of the fixed negative charges in the GBM (i and iii). The foot process base (ii) seems to be a complicated zone since the PEI binding in this area was less affected by heparitinase treatment, while this area has been reported to have a lower sialic acid content than the foot process surface facing the urinary space. PMID- 2525633 TI - Glomerular injury induced by antibodies against heparan sulfate proteoglycan (HSPG) derived from PYS 2 cells. AB - Kidneys of Balb/c mice intravenously injected with rabbit antibodies to heparan sulfate proteoglycan (HSPG) derived from PYS-2 cells were studied for 14 weeks. Antibodies were found to bind to the glomerular basement membrane (GBM) as early as 15 min after the injection. Binding of antibodies was observed over the whole thickness of the GBM. The lamina rara interna and foot process base appeared to be more intensely stained. This pattern did not change throughout the experiments. Mild inflammatory changes (infiltration of polymorphonuclear cells and swelling of the glomerular endothelium) were seen at the initial stage (approximately 1 day), and mesangial expansion followed (1-4 weeks). In mice pre- and booster-immunized with normal rabbit IgG, a moderate autologous response was observed by immunofluorescence microscopy, but no significant inflammatory changes were noted. At the late stage (6 weeks approximately), irregular GBM thickening was observed. The thickening was due mainly to expansion of the lamina rara externa. These findings suggest that the anti-HSPG antibodies caused mild glomerulonephritis at the initial stage, and later caused thickening of the GBM possibly by disturbing the assembly, production and degradation of GBM components. PMID- 2525634 TI - Renal and hemodynamic effects of synthetic atrial natriuretic peptide in dogs with chronic renal failure. AB - The present experiments were performed to clarify the renal and hemodynamic effects of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) in dogs with chronic renal failure (CRF; produced by 5/6 nephrectomy 3-4 weeks before study). Synthetic alpha-hANP was administered intravenously (0.1 micrograms/kg body weight for 30 min) with a priming bolus injection (1.0 micrograms/kg body weight) to anesthetized controls (n = 8) and CRF-dogs (n = 10). The effects of ANP on renal function, cardiac function, lithium clearance, and plasma ANP levels during clearance studies were determined. Effects of ANP on the hemodynamics were observed to the same degree in both groups. An increase in inulin clearance (CIn) was noted only in the CRF dogs (7.5 +/- 2.1 to 9.6 +/- 2.9 ml/min; p less than 0.01). The infusion of ANP increased the urine volume, absolute sodium excretion, and osmolar clearance in the control and CRF groups. The fractional excretion of lithium (FELi), a marker of the proximal reabsorption of sodium, was higher at baseline in the CRF group (control group, 24.4 +/- 6.7 vs. CRF group, 41.5 +/- 13.2%; p less than 0.001). Following ANP infusion, FELi increased in both groups. The plasma ANP levels were monitored during the clearance study, and those of the CRF group were higher throughout the experiments. Thus, extrinsic ANP induced diuresis and natriuresis in CRF-dogs, produced by nephron mass reduction. Discrepancies in the pattern of response and plasma ANP levels were observed between the controls and CRF-dogs, suggesting that the action and metabolic clearance rate of ANP were altered in the CRF state. PMID- 2525635 TI - A study of the sedimentation properties of the U-snRNPs of mouse embryoid bodies (OTT6050) by sucrose gradient centrifugation under physiological ionic conditions and electrophoretic analysis of the RNA in various fractions. AB - Fractionation of nuclear extracts of mouse embryoid bodies (EBs; OTT6050) on sucrose gradients (5-20%) under conditions of physiological ionic strength (150 mM NaCl, 1mM MgCl2) and an analysis of the RNA in various fractions by gel electrophoresis revealed that the major U small nuclear ribonucleoproteins (U snRNPs; U1a, U1b, U2, U4, U5 and U6-snRNPs) sediment over a wide region of the gradient, although they sediment preponderantly in the light region of the gradient. This result suggests that, under these experimental conditions, some of the populations of snRNPs exist as free particles separated from large nuclear RNP particles, while some of the populations associate with them in EBs. Furthermore, all species of these major U-snRNPs appear to associate with the larger nuclear RNP particles of EBs, since all these species sediment in the heavier fractions (approximate greater than or equal to 60S) of the 15-40%/50% gradients. The relative abundance of the various species of major U-snRNPs can also be observed to vary among the fractions of the gradients. A similar analysis of the post-mitochondrial cytoplasmic fraction showed that some leakage of the major U-snRNPs, but not the selective leakage of any particular species of U snRNP, from the nuclear fraction, occurred during aqueous fractionation of the cells. Some species of RNA, larger than the snRNAs U1a/b and U2 respectively were also detected in the cytoplasmic fraction. PMID- 2525636 TI - [Classification of postoperative eventration]. AB - On the basis of summarizing the experience with treatment of 280 patients, the authors suggest a classification of postoperative eventration. The tactics of treatment in its different variants was developed. PMID- 2525637 TI - [Laparoscopy in surgical planning]. AB - On the basis of the results of examination of 152 patients, the authors came to conclusion that laparoscopy permitted to specify the type and volume of an operative intervention, to choose the rational tactics of treatment. In gas introduction into the gastric lumen, the survey of the difficult to access sites improved. PMID- 2525638 TI - [Rehabilitation of World War II invalids with chronic gunshot osteomyelitis in the Poltava region]. PMID- 2525639 TI - [Use of sodium thiosulfate with fibrinolysin and endolypmphatic antibacterial therapy in the complex treatment of suppurative wounds]. PMID- 2525640 TI - [Diagnostic and therapeutic laparoscopy in complications after surgical operations on the abdominal organs]. PMID- 2525641 TI - [Programmed laparotomy as a method of dynamic observation of the status of the abdominal organs]. PMID- 2525642 TI - [Relaparotomy in emergency surgery]. PMID- 2525643 TI - [Surgical treatment of large and giant postoperative abdominal hernias]. AB - The author suggests a new method for operation in large and giant median abdominal hernias by correction of the disturbed anatomical relations of the rectus muscles by restoring their normal position and creating new sheaths for them from the cicatricial-aponeuritic sheets. The operation was conducted on 17 patients with a good outcome. PMID- 2525644 TI - [Laparoscopy in the diagnosis and treatment of necrosis of the appendices epiploicae of the sigmoid]. PMID- 2525645 TI - [Ways of improving emergency aid to patients with acute diseases of the organs of the abdominal cavity]. AB - The author believes that the organization and quality of emergency aid for patients with acute diseases of the abdominal organs can be improved on the basis of their prophylaxis by means of regular medical examination and planned application of healthful measures in cases with hernias, chronic cholecystitis and peptic ulcer, timely hospitalization of patients in surgical clinics when signs of "acute abdomen" appear, and the introduction of effective forms of health education among the population. PMID- 2525646 TI - [Radical removal of desmoid with simultaneous plastic surgery of the defect in the anterior abdominal wall]. PMID- 2525647 TI - [Lymphedema of the anterior abdominal wall in an obese female patient]. PMID- 2525648 TI - [Reconstruction of the size and shape of the breast using the rectus abdominalis muscle (review of the literature)]. PMID- 2525649 TI - [Diagnostic possibilities of laparoscopy in the assessment of the stage in stomach cancer]. AB - The authors employed laparoscopy as a method of final examination for identifying the stage of a neoplastic process in 259 patients. Obvious signs of generalization of the process were found in 110 patients (42.5 +/- 6.0%). An unnecessary additional trauma--diagnostic laparotomy was avoided in this case. The informativeness of laparoscopic examination was 97.3 +/- 3.6% in metastases to the liver, 96.1 +/- 5.3% in metastatic involvement of the parietal peritoneum, and 87.7 +/- 8.5% in ascites. The diagnosis was verified morphologically. PMID- 2525650 TI - [Laparoscopic diagnosis of neoplastic diseases in ambulatory patients]. AB - The article deals with the results of the first experience in using laparoscopy for establishing the diagnosis of neoplastic diseases of the abdominal organs in 32 patients in an out-patient clinic. The contraindications were determined and some organizational measures in conducting laparoscopy in this group of patients were mapped out. A method is suggested for closing the operative wound after laparoscopy with sutures applied through all layer under laparoscopic control. The authors consider strict selection of patients for laparoscopy in out-patient clinics to be expedient. PMID- 2525651 TI - The contribution of ergonomics to the rehabilitation of back pain patients. AB - The role of ergonomics in existing rehabilitation programmes is considered through a review of studies undertaken both in the United Kingdom and elsewhere. In general, little consideration has been paid to what the rehabilitees are undertaking in their work or to how intervention at the workplace might be implemented. This occurs despite the evidence that ergonomic advice has been shown to be beneficial. Current approaches to rehabilitation stress the need for the patient to resume normal activities as soon as possible. It seems also prudent to identify ergonomic mismatches in the workplace as soon as possible during rehabilitation in order to reduce the number of repeat attacks. A number of examples have been presented which illustrate how ergonomics can help, and the dangers of inappropriate or delayed interventions. The occupational physician is considered to be a key individual in initiating ergonomic interventions. This is in keeping with the International Labour Office model of occupational health services. PMID- 2525652 TI - Occupational hazard in hospital staff exposed to 2 per cent glutaraldehyde in an endoscopy unit. AB - The occupational hazards associated with exposure to 2 per cent glutaraldehyde have been assessed in medical and nursing staff working in an endoscopy unit. Eight of the nine staff were affected and the clinical manifestations included watering of eyes, rhinitis, dermatitis, respiratory difficulties, nausea and headache. The atmospheric concentrations of glutaraldehyde were assessed and the effect on clinical manifestations is discussed. Glutaraldehyde is an irritant and sensitiser. Guidelines for those exposed to the compound are discussed to prevent, monitor and manage any health hazard. PMID- 2525653 TI - Aromatase inhibition in hypophysectomised female rats: a novel animal model for in vivo screening. AB - An experimental model for in vivo screening of aromatase inhibitors was developed which overcomes the interference of compounds centrally active via the pituitary gonad axis. Mature female surgically or chemically hypophysectomised (hypx) rats were treated with the oestrogen precursor dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS), immediately followed by administration of the test compound. During the treatment period vaginal smears were prepared daily. In the hypx rats DHEAS was metabolised to oestrogens, which induced vaginal cornification. By determining oestradiol levels it was shown that the aromatase inhibitors tested antagonised oestrogen synthesis and, as a result, cornification was counteracted. 4 Hydroxyandrostenedione and SH 489 showed equipotent aromatase inhibition, whereas 19-mercapto-androstenedione (ORG 30365) was at least twice as potent as the former compounds. By using various oestrogen precursors the inhibition of the enzyme aromatase was demonstrated. For in vivo screening of compounds on their aromatase inhibiting activity the assay in hypx rats appeared to be very suitable and selective but, because anti-oestrogens also antagonise vaginal cornification, anti-oestrogenic activity has to be excluded. PMID- 2525655 TI - Emergency operation after failed angioplasty. PMID- 2525654 TI - Comparison of residual C-19 steroids in plasma and prostatic tissue of human, rat and guinea pig after castration: unique importance of extratesticular androgens in men. AB - The concentrations of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), its sulfate (DHEAS), androstenedione (A-dione), testosterone (T) and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) have been measured before and after castration in men and two animal models, namely the rat and the guinea pig. In adult men, the pre-castration levels of plasma DHEAS and DHEA were measured at 1839 +/- 320 and 2.4 +/- 0.5 ng/ml, respectively, while in both animal models, the concentrations of these two steroids were below 0.3 ng/ml. Orchiectomy in men reduced plasma T and DHT levels from 2.9 +/- 0.1 and 0.60 +/- 0.10 to 0.42 +/- 0.21 and 0.05 +/- 0.01 ng/ml (P less than 0.01), respectively, while there was no significant effect observed on DHEAS, DHEA and A dione levels. By contrast, castration in the rat reduced the low levels of circulating DHEA and A-dione below the detection of the radioimmunoassay (RIA) used. In castrated guinea pig, a small quantity of plasma A-dione (0.07 +/- 0.02 ng/ml) was measured while DHEA was undetectable. Moreover, in the rat and guinea pig, plasma T and DHT levels became undetectable. Following administration of the antiandrogen Flutamide for two weeks in the castrated rat and guinea pig, prostate weight was not further reduced, thus indicating that there is no significant androgenic activity left following castration of these two species. In fact, castration in the rat and guinea pig caused a decrease in prostatic levels of DHT from 4.24 +/- 0.351 and 9.42 +/- 1.43 ng/g, respectively, to undetectable levels. In men, on the other hand, the prostatic DHT levels were only inhibited from 5.24 +/- 0.59 to 2.70 +/- 1.50 ng/g, respectively. As expected, when Flutamide was administered to the rat and the guinea pig, the levels of prostatic steroids remained undetectable while, in men, the DHT content in the prostate was further reduced to undetectable values. In summary, the plasma levels of DHEAS, DHEA, delta 4-dione are markedly different between men and both animal models used and furthermore, measurements of prostatic levels of androgens suggest that the high plasma levels of these steroids are likely responsible for the presence of important amounts of DHT in human prostate after castration. PMID- 2525656 TI - Anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary trunk. Anatomic findings in relation to pathophysiology and surgical repair. AB - Anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary trunk, though a discrete anatomic malformation, manifests a spectrum of clinical and pathologic consequences. The objectives of this study were to characterize the primary anatomic findings in a group of specimens with anomalous left coronary artery and the extent of secondary morphologic and pathologic changes. Although the cases studied probably represent the least favorable end of the spectrum, the observed pathogenesis and evolution of secondary changes suggest that reconstruction of a two-coronary arterial system supplied through two coronary arteries would be advantageous to most patients. A high origin of the right coronary artery or location of the left coronary artery adjacent to a pulmonary cusp or branch may complicate the tunnel-type repair. In these cases, transfer of the left coronary artery to the aorta may be preferable. PMID- 2525657 TI - [Pregnancy after hysterosalpingography and laparoscopy]. AB - Pregnancies following hysterosalpingography (HSG) and laparoscopy (LPSK) are described. HSG was performed in 463 and laparoscopy in 255 patients if they did not conceive within 6 months following HSG. Group I included patients with bilaterally occluded tubes, group II patients with pathological changes in the tubes with one or both unobstructed tubes, and group III patients with normal HSG and LPSK findings. Group I included 79 patients, group II 163 and group III 221 patients after HSG, and group I 42, group II 118 and group III 95 patients after LPSK. After the application of both methods, pregnancy was to be expected only in patients from group II and III. During the year following HSG, out of 384 patients from groups II and III, 55 (14.3%) conceived, and following LPSK, out of 213 patients from groups II and III, 28 (13.1%) conceived. Following the applications of both methods, 83 (27.4%) patients from groups II and III conceived. The number of spontaneous pregnancies after HSG and LPSK is almost equal. It may therefore be assumed that it is only the mechanical activity of the perfusion liquid that has a therapeutic effect. PMID- 2525658 TI - Parents for children, children for parents. The adoption alternative. PMID- 2525659 TI - [Effect of absorption of laser radiation on the destruction threshold of pathologic tissue in laser angioplasty]. AB - With laser angioplasty the hemoglobin absorbtion effect on the demolishing of the pathological objects was taken into consideration. It was stated that this effect is high for argon lasers (lambda = 0.488 = 0.514 microns) and insignificant for solid state laser (lambda = 1.064 microns). In this respect growth of laser capacity practically is not increasing the efficiency of the pathological objects destruction at a distance not more than 1 mm from the out-put of the light-guide. PMID- 2525660 TI - Siblings of children with severe handicaps. AB - Interviews with 24 children ages 9 to 13 about life with their younger siblings who had severe handicaps revealed a consistently high level of involvement, strong feelings of responsibility, and an emphasis on positive aspects of family life. Hardships were not denied, but these children appeared to be faring better than children studied in earlier research, before schooling for children with handicaps and other supports for their families were mandated. PMID- 2525661 TI - The phenomenon of latent pregnancy and cancer. AB - Based on empirical data on the phenomenon of latent pregnancy in some free living animal species the authors submit the hypothesis of a new approach to the biological basis and the control of the growth of malignant tumours. PMID- 2525662 TI - [Blood zinc in patients with Down's syndrome and its relations with their immune status]. AB - Studies performed in the last decade have shown the importance of zinc in human physiology particularly in cell mediated immunity. Blood zinc values were assayed with the atomic absorption method using a Perkin/Elmer 2.380 spectrophotometer in 35 Down's syndrome subjects (DS) (16 boys and 19 girls aged 6 months 20 years) and in normal subjects in good health. The immunological picture was determined as previously described. Zinc values in normal subjects were in the range 92-128 micrograms/dl (mean value 107 +/- 10.46 micrograms/dl). The values are in the normal range. The range of blood zinc values of DS children was 60-138 micrograms/dl (mean value 92.22 +/- 19.76 micrograms/dl). Of the 35 subjects with DS, 16 had values of 60-84 micrograms/dl (mean 74.25 +/- 8.29 micrograms/dl) (table I), which are well below normal. Blood zinc values were not correlated to age and sex. A relationship was found with mortality. Out of 16 patients with low zinc values 10 (68.5%) were particularly susceptible to infections. These data were then related to results concerning the immunological status of a previous study. The only three negative skin tests were observed in subjects with low blood zinc. 62.5% of DS subjects with low blood zinc also had a complete lymphocyte deficit (table I) as compared to 42.1% of DS cases with normal zinc levels. Respectively 56.25% and 36.8% of DS cases with low blood zinc values had an abnormal and normal T helper/T suppressor ratio. Only 3 (8.57% of all cases and 18.75% of low blood zinc values) subjects had an alteration of all the parameter evaluated (including morbility).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525663 TI - Getting to the heart of the matter. Interview by RL Reece. PMID- 2525665 TI - [The significance and characteristics of the LHRH test in diagnosing precocious puberty development in girls: the stimulated LH/FSH quotient differentiates between central precocious puberty and premature thelarche]. AB - LHRH tests (100 micrograms i.v.) were performed in 31 girls with central precocious puberty (PP); the girls were participating in an international multicentre trial for the treatment of PP with the LHRH agonist decapeptyl in microspheres, together with 18 girls with premature thelarche (PT). Assignment to these two groups was made after 6 months to 5 years of clinical follow-up. LH and FSH were determined centrally using a polyclonal RIA. Basal LH and FSH levels and stimulated LH levels were significantly higher in PP patients (p less than 0.001), but the stimulated FSH levels were not significantly different between the two groups. In the PP group, all stimulated LH levels were above the prepubertal range, whereas in the PT patients all stimulated LH levels were within the prepubertal reference limits. In PP and PT patients 52% and 56%, respectively, of the stimulated FSH levels were increased above the range for prepubertal girls. In 55% of the PP patients, stimulated LH levels were also above the reference range for the corresponding Tanner breast stage. In contrast, all stimulated LH levels of the PT group were within the reference limits for their breast stage. For FSH, 45% and 56% of the stimulated levels were above the normal ranges for the corresponding breast stages in the PP and PT groups, respectively. The LH-to-FSH ratio after LHRH stimulation was significantly higher in the PP than in the PT group (p less than 0.001). All but one of these ratios were above 1 in the PP patients and all ratios in the PT patients were below 1.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525664 TI - Guidelines for prevention of transmission of human immunodeficiency virus and hepatitis B virus to health-care and public-safety workers. PMID- 2525666 TI - [Features of expression of cloned genes under the control of tandem promotors pL and pR of phage lambda]. AB - The regulatory block P'R from the bacteriophage lambda has been inserted between the promoter and initial part of the gene into the plasmid pCJ55 carrying the gene for the Klenow fragment under the control of pL. As it should be predicted, at the inverted orientation the sharp decrease in the Klenow fragment quantity is registered. However, at the direct orientation there is some decrease in the synthesis of the protein, as compared with the synthesis of the Klenow fragment in the strain harbouring the plasmid pCJ55. A plausible explanation of the fact may be in the transcriptional interference of the promoters pL and p'R in artificially constructed structures. PMID- 2525667 TI - [The Z-form of bacteriophage lambda DNA, modified in situ]. AB - Using the methods of chemical modification, restriction analysis and immune electron microscopy it has been shown that the definite regions of the bacteriophage lambda DNA contain unpaired bases in situ. The distribution map of such sites along the genome has been constructed. The correlation of the in situ modification and the reaction with anti-Z-DNA antibodies is shown for the 44972 bp site of bacteriophage DNA. The possibility of the existence of Z-form DNA in situ is discussed. PMID- 2525669 TI - SOS Chromotest study concerning some appreciation criteria of humic substances' genotoxic potency. AB - The genotoxicity of 5 compounds: 2 fulvic acids, a trade humic acid, a synthetic humic material (SHM), and 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid, was assessed after chlorination, by means of the SOS Chromotest for tester strain E. coli PQ 37 without metabolic activation. Chlorination was carried out for humic material concentration of 0.5 mg total organic carbon per liter, and chlorine concentrations in the range of 0.1-2.0 chlorine equivalents per mole of carbon. Among all the considered criteria that can account for potent toxicity: chemical degradation determined by the UV absorption decrease, chlorine consumption, average molecular weight, only the polymerization index (O.D. 665 nm/O.D. 465 nm) can be related to the genotoxicity of humic samples. This latter criterion appears a possible predictor of genotoxic potency, revealed subsequent to the aqueous chlorination of humic materials. Looking at the various genotoxic activities of the tested compounds, SHM can be considered a better model of natural humic materials than the trade humic acid. PMID- 2525668 TI - The mouse bone marrow micronucleus test: evaluation of 21 drug candidates. AB - The mouse bone-marrow micronucleus test is one of the most widely used genetic toxicology assays. In this report the results of testing 21 compounds in the micronucleus test are presented. Of the 21 compounds tested, 3 potential chemotherapeutic agents were identified as strongly clastogenic. In addition, one compound was identified as a weak inducer of micronuclei in the assay. Further testing of this compound in an in vivo bone marrow metaphase analysis failed to confirm this material as clastogenic. The remaining 17 compounds were classified as negative in the assay. In general the results of the micronucleus test agreed with the results of other genetic toxicology assays on this group of compounds. PMID- 2525670 TI - Effects of heat shock on the induction of mutations by chemical mutagens in Neurospora crassa. AB - Preheating of Neurospora conidia increased their susceptibility to mutation induction by chemical mutagens. Optimal conditions of heat shock for enhanced mutagenesis were determined in 2.5 X 10(7) conidia/ml 0.067 M KH2PO4-Na2HPO4 (pH 7.0) buffer to be treatment at 43 degrees C for 60 min. When protein synthesis during heat stock was eliminated by cycloheximide or by use of the temperature sensitive mutation psi-1, induction of thermotolerance was inhibited while induction of the enhanced state of mutability was not. Therefore, inducible protein synthesis is not involved in this process. To discover whether DNA-repair systems are altered by heat shock and, as a result, whether reversion frequencies increase, DNA-repair mutants (upr-1, uvs-2, uvs-3, uvs-6, mus-7, mus-16) were heated and their reversion frequencies at the ad-8 locus were measured. All the DNA-repair mutants showed higher reversion frequencies with MNNG treatment after heat shock than in non-heated control. It therefore seems that DNA repair is not involved in the enhancement of chemical mutagenesis by heat shock. Heat shock does not increase frequencies of reversion induced by ultraviolet light, and heat shock after treatment with chemical mutagens does not affect reversion frequencies. These results suggest that heat shock may change the structure and function of cellular membranes and thereby increase the influx of mutagens into cells. PMID- 2525671 TI - Inhibition of biopterin synthesis and DOPA production in PC-12 pheochromocytoma cells induced by 6-aminonicotinamide. AB - Pheochromocytoma cells (clone PC-12) were treated with 6-aminonicotinamide. Tetrahydrobiopterin content and DOPA production of the cells were determined by reverse-phase HPLC and subsequent electrochemical detection. The same chromatographic system was used to determine total biopterin (tetrahydrobiopterin, dihydrobiopterin and quinoide dihydrobiopterin) by fluorescence detection. Tetrahydrobiopterin plays a decisive role as cofactor of tyrosine hydroxylase for the biosynthesis of DOPA and dopamine. Addition of 6 aminonicotinamide to the culture medium resulted in the accumulation of 6 phosphogluconate, suggesting that PC-12 cells synthesize 6-aminonicotinamide adenine-dinucleotide-phosphate (6-ANADP) by a glycohydrolase localized in the endoplasmic reticulum. This substance is known to be a strong inhibitor of 6 phosphogluconate dehydrogenase and leads to a blockade of the pentose phosphate pathway. In our experiments, the synthesis of biopterins was depressed after application of 6-aminonicotinamide. The decrease of intracellular tetrahydrobiopterin and total biopterin by 6-aminonicotinamide at different concentrations was strongly correlated with a reduced cellular DOPA production. The decreased content of biopterin cofactor was compensated by addition of the precursor sepiapterin, indicating that the NADPH2-dependent reductases in biopterin synthesis are not inhibited by the antimetabolite. However, DOPA production remained suppressed at the same time. After application of NADH2, we observed an increased DOPA production though the decreased biopterin levels remained almost unchanged. The results imply that the first step in the synthesis of biopterin from GTP as well as the recycling pathways of the oxidized cofactor might be the site of action of the antimetabolite.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525673 TI - Family support in North Carolina. PMID- 2525672 TI - Alinidine reverses the descending staircase of isolated rat atria by an antimuscarinic action. AB - Contractile force of isolated atria from most mammalian species increases with the rate of electrical stimulation, resulting in an ascending staircase. In contrast, in the rat, contractile force decreases with increasing rate of stimulation (descending staircase). The bradycardic and antianginal drug alinidine (5.7-91.2 mumol/l) reversed the descending staircase to ascending by a positive inotropic effect at higher stimulation rates. Maximal positive inotropy was obtained with 45.6 mumol/l, a concentration which also caused maximal bradycardia in spontaneously beating atria. Concentrations of 1 mumol/l of the antimuscarinic compounds atropine as well as the quaternary salt ipratropium bromide also reversed the descending staircase of rat atria. Addition of alinidine did not cause any further increase in force of contraction under these conditions. Addition of 1 mumol/l physostigmine to isolated left atria from guinea pigs for blockade of acetylcholinesterase decreased contractility at all stimulation rates, but did not change the ascending character of the staircase. Alinidine antagonized the negative inotropic effect of physostigmine. The known antimuscarinic action of alinidine was quantified in electrically driven (0.25 Hz) left rat atria by antagonism of the negative inotropic effect of oxotremorine (0.01-10 mumol/l). Alinidine acted as a strictly competitive antagonist with a pA2 of 5.82. In isolated papillary muscle from guinea pigs, pretreated with reserpine for depletion of catecholamines, carbachol (0.1-3000 mumol/l) exerted positive inotropic effects. Alinidine antagonized also this effect in a competitive fashion with a pA2 value of 5.58.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525675 TI - [Results of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty in renal artery stenosis in 1978-1986]. PMID- 2525674 TI - [Apnea following epidural administration of sufentanil]. AB - Four patients developed apnoea after epidural administration of 50 micrograms of sufentanil. In three of these patients apnoea occurred within two minutes after administration. In all cases catheter position was verified to be in the epidural space. It is possible that accumulation plays a causative role in some of those cases in which the drug is given on demand. Because sufentanil-induced apnoea may occur fast and unexpected it is advised that patients should be kept under close supervision for at least two hours following administration. PMID- 2525676 TI - [Epidemiologic study of the estimated number of older patients with Down's syndrome in 1990-2025]. AB - Since a population-based registry of the mentally retarded is lacking in The Netherlands, data concerning incidence and life expectancy patients with Down's syndrome (DS) are not available. Based on birth statistics, in combination with risk factors for DS in relation to maternal age on the one hand and on studies on life expectancy in DS from Denmark, British Columbia and Western Australia on the other, the numbers of these patients older than 40 years were estimated for The Netherlands for the period 1990-2025. After a considerable increase of the number of institutionalized DS patients of 40 years and older between 1958 and 1985, the present estimates indicate a further rise. It is expected that the level of aged DS patients will be highest between 2005 and 2020, and will increase at least to numbers 50% above those expected for 1990. These findings have to have an impact on the capacity planning for institutes for the mentally retarded. PMID- 2525677 TI - Factors influencing the response to hepatitis B vaccination of hemodialysis patients. AB - The response rate and HBsAG antibody concentrations were examined after hepatitis B vaccination in 78 hemodialysis patients aged between 29 and 79 years. The values were related to age, duration of hemodialysis, body weight, creatinine, urea nitrogen, serum concentrations of beta 2-microglobulin and soluble interleukin-2 receptor (IL-2R). Patients with low anti-HBsAG antibody concentrations (10-100 mU/ml) had significantly higher IL-2R serum concentrations than those with high anti-HBsAG antibody concentrations (greater than 3,000 mU/ml; p less than 0.05). Discriminant multivariate analysis (p = 0.032) revealed the influence (62%) of IL-2R on the response rate while other factors were similar in all patient groups. It is concluded that preactivation of T cells with an increased release of IL-2R may contribute to impaired immune response after hepatitis B vaccination. PMID- 2525678 TI - Myo-inositol normalizes decreased sodium permeability of the blood-brain barrier in streptozotocin diabetes. AB - The effect of a dietary supplement of an aldose reductase inhibitor (ponalrestat) or of myo-inositol on sodium transport into the rat brain and on concentrations of saccharide and polyols in cortical brain tissue and sciatic nerve was investigated in control rats and in streptozotocin-diabetic rats after a diabetes duration of 2 weeks. In untreated diabetes, the neocortical blood-brain barrier permeability for sodium decreased by 28% (3.4 +/- 0.4 vs 4.7 +/- 1.6 x 10(-5) ml/s g, mean +/- SD) as compared to controls. Levels of glucose, sorbitol and fructose increased in brain as well as in nerve tissues, whereas myo-inositol depletion was not demonstrable. Ponalrestat treatment of diabetic animals had no effect upon the decreased neocortical blood-brain barrier permeability to sodium (3.5 +/- 0.9 vs 4.7 +/- 1.1 x 10(-5) ml/s g) despite normalization of brain and nerve content of sorbitol and fructose. Myo-inositol supplementation of diabetic rats normalized sodium passage into the brain (4.2 +/- 1.1 vs 4.4 +/- 0.5 x 10( 5) ml/s g). Brain concentrations of monosaccharides and polyols were normalized as compared to the myo-inositol treated control group and nerve concentrations of glucose, sorbitol, and fructose were significantly increased. Myo-inositol treatment leads to a normalization of blood-brain barrier permeability; it is suggested that myo-inositol exerts a restituting effect upon Na+/K+-ATPase activity of the cerebral endothelial cells. PMID- 2525679 TI - [The public health service as an instrument of health policy goal development]. AB - Public Health service is an instrument that is absolutely essential in communal and national health policy. It cannot be replaced by independent doctors and institutions. Tasks of social and environmental hygiene will become increasingly important besides many other problems. This means adequate staff and equipment are an absolute must. Private enterprise cannot step in without causing irreparable damage. It is absolutely out of place and highly damaging to talk about subsidies. Doctors performing practice outside their Public Health duties can do so if that does not interfere with these duties and is not meant to cater to any alleled need for additional income. However, it is to be welcomed as a matter of principle since it is an effective and economic form of continuing education. PMID- 2525680 TI - [The environment, knowledge and preventive medicine. 3. The radical approach of conservative medicine--preventive environmental medicine as the physician's responsibility]. AB - To develop a strategy of environmental medicine it is necessary to harmonize the scientific and the holistic ways of thinking. On the basis of a holistic philosophy it is possible to set up a constructive system of values that looks ahead and the assessment of anthropogenic pollutions of the environment. It is imperative to change the way of thinking. PMID- 2525681 TI - [Fatalities and danger to health caused by smog]. AB - Basing on official statistics, the course of death rates during the Smog period in January 1985 in the German Ruhr district was studied. The death rate did not increase; on the contrary it had decreased. There is no reason to assume that any health hazards are created by Smog. PMID- 2525682 TI - [The problem of carcinogenic N-nitroso compounds--30 years old]. AB - For 30 years a correlation between N-nitroso compounds and cancer in man has been suspected. Investigations of nitrate and nitrite in food and human gastric cancer were performed all over the world. Literature on nitrosamines and nitrosamides is abundant, but it is impossible to make a realistic assessment of the danger of N nitroso compounds and their precursors for man. Restriction of unnecessary intake of nitrate through drinking water and food is in any case an important task of hygiene. PMID- 2525683 TI - [Preventive hepatitis B vaccination of professional firefighters as an occupational medicine responsibility of the public health service]. AB - Protective vaccination against hepatitis B was carried out on 91 professional firemen employed in the emergency service of the municipal fire brigade, as part of the medical care offered to the public service bodies and provided for by Federal German legislation. After this vaccination had been carried out, 91% of the firemen concerned were satisfactorily protected by an HBs-antibody titre level of more than 10 E/l. No serious side effects were observed. A questionnaire served to find out to what extent the vaccination had been accepted. The results of the investigation were almost uniformly positive. Attention is drawn to the positive effect and high degree of acceptance of such a vaccination. PMID- 2525684 TI - [Computer-assisted control of a public health inventory]. AB - To cope with its tasks more efficiently, the Public Health Office of the "Markische Kreis" in 1985 installed an information system on the basis of electronic data processing, the so-called "hygiene inventory". Initially, the introduction of this system into the local Public Health Office is described. The structure and organization of the programme and its performance are then discussed and exemplified by the control of drinking water supply plants. The disadvantages of computer use are by no means overlooked. The latter include the necessity to initially put in a considerable number of data and to constantly store new results, initial acceptance problems and the poor autonomy of the system. The most important advantages of computer-aided processing are optimum evaluation possibilities, centralised scheduling, automated production of letters, efficient drafting of the annual health report and the possibility of exchanging data media. PMID- 2525686 TI - [Disposable gloves for use in medicine, quality requirements--quality control]. AB - The general fear of catching HIV infection during surgery, medical examination, patient care or emergency care has prompted a discussion and some research regarding the quality of throwaway gloves. Technical regulations regarding the demands to be made on most gloves made of latex that are packed individually and sterilised, is already in force, but this does not apply to other types of gloves used in medical care and offered in bulk packing; such gloves are usually made of vinyl, sometimes also of latex, and are not sterilised before sale. In the Federal Republic of Germany, however, official legislation is entirely lacking for both types of throwaway gloves. Among the test methods published so far, it seems that examination for liquid-proof density also ensures that no microorganisms bigger than 0.5 micron can penetrate. The article reports on relevant comparative studies. PMID- 2525685 TI - [Determination of rubella antibodies in 16-year-old girls within the scope of the final school and youth occupational preventive examinations 1986/88 conducted by the youth health service of the Tempelhof district in Berlin]. AB - 574 girls of 16 years of age were examined during 1987/88 for rubella antibody titres as part of their health examination before leaving school. 78.9% of these had a HHT of 1:32 or higher. In 13.1% the titre was 1:16 and in 8% below 1:16 HHT. 75.1% of the girls had been vaccinated against rubella when they were 11 years of age. The titre values of vaccinated and non-vaccinated girls were compared with each other. The results were given to the parents in writing. If the vaccination titre was low, repeat vaccination was recommended. PMID- 2525687 TI - [Maturity criteria in youth jurisprudence--on the problem of paragraphs 1, 3 and 105 of the youth penal code from the viewpoint of adolescent psychiatry]. AB - The youth psychiatrist is regularly asked to assess the maturity of juvenile offenders. The criteria are laid down by German criminal legislation. The present articles deals with the individual factors that enable such assessment, especially if the offender is between 18 and 20 years of age. PMID- 2525688 TI - [Public health service in the Weimar Republic and in the early history of West Germany]. AB - The historical period of the Weimar Republik has to be looked upon as the blossom time of municipal public health care under the influence of the theory of social hygiene. This leading theory originated from the idea of a social policy and a social medicine worked out during the German revolution of 1848. Its theoretical foundation as a social science was laid by Alfred Grotjahn in the years before 1914. The article describes the practical transformation of this theory in municipal public health care during the twenties, using the capital Berlin as an example. It is shown how racial hygiene influenced this process. In 1933 the idea of racial hygiene became dominant and the progressive representatives of social hygiene either had to emigrate or they were eliminated by the Nazis. After 1945 this double break in continuity caused considerable difficulties in the practical reorganization as well as in the theoretical reorientation of public health care. PMID- 2525689 TI - [Essential biochemical aspects and toxicology of copper]. AB - Cases of chronic copper intoxication of infants via the ingestion of water, as investigated recently in certain regions of Bavaria and the EMs district, have been prompting a quest for additional risk factors which enhance the effect of copper, even though they do limit its frequency rate. The water from water wells, which had been incriminated, was never of a quality standard that would classify it as "drinking water", i.e. as potable water, so that one must consider not only physiological/biochemical but also water-conditioned/chemical causes. Copper alone as the sole risk factor--and in the concentrations considered to be suspect so far--will not suffice to explain the number of cases recorded to date. Basing on the established knowledge in toxicology and essentially of copper we arrive at the following points of attack for further research on the causes: Special kinds of copper ingestion of a chemical nature; unusual reaction of the intestinal mucosa to copper; development-conditioned variable coeruloplasmin synthesis or elimination of copper via the bile; delayed degradation of metallothioneine. Until the causes have been definitely clarified, we believe that suitable prophylactic measures should be taken in accordance with the short communication by Eife and Muller-Hocker (Dt. Arztebl. 85 (1988) 11: A 693) or the press release by the Federal Public Health Service dated 18 March 1988. PMID- 2525691 TI - [The public health relevance of various microbiologic marker pathogens for assessing bathing water]. AB - Regarding the quality of natural recreational water for bathing purposes, the limit values of E. coli and coliforms, faecal coliforms and totalcoliforms, respectively, laid down by the Council of the European Community, differ considerably from those prescribed by some Land Governments of the Federal Republic of Germany and by the DIN Standard Regulation No. 19643 entitled 'Processing and Disinfection of Water in Swimming Pools and Basins in Public Baths'. It must be concluded by virtue of hygienically plausible considerations, as well as for juridical reasons, that only the limit values of the EC-Code of Practice are authoritative, whereas standards of the DIN 19643, especially in respect of E. coli and coliforms, differing from the limit values of the EC-Code of Practice are not legally binding. Moreover, coliforms are not relevant for controlling swimming pools and basins in public baths. Staphylococcus aureus should therefore be investigated instead whereas other parameters such as E. coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and total colony counts are good markers. However, the standards of these organisms as established by the DIN 19643 are more in line with technical practibility and biased aesthetics instead of the hygienically important prinicple of commensurability. PMID- 2525690 TI - [Health-related evaluation of plant protective agents in drinking water]. AB - Crop protection products are anthropogenous substances that should have no place in drinking water. Some of them are long-lived, can accumulate and are poorly biodegradable and many of them are not so harmless to human health as would be desirable or necessary. Accordingly, Federal German legislation provides for limit values of crop protection products close to the identification limit. Although it does not appear justified to close down waterworks effective 1 October 1989 if these limit values are exceeded, it must be carefully considered up to which concentration--depending on the individual substance--special permissions can be granted for a limited period of time. It seems that such concentrations should preferably be in accordance with general food legislation. Recommendations will be shortly issued by the Federal Health Ministry. The fact that special permissions are at all under consideration to prevent complete closing down of water supply reservoirs should sound a note of warning to all concerned, including crop protection product users and the relevant Government agencies issuing special permits. PMID- 2525692 TI - [Disinfection measures in routine cleaning of child day care centers--result of a survey of 83 child day care centers of a district area]. AB - The supervision of hygienical conditions in kindergartens in one of the tasks of Public Health. Recommendations concerning the cleaning methods and the application of disinfectants should also be given. An inquiry in 83 kindergartens of a region raises significant doubts on this subject. Due to irroneous application and irregular use the risks of the disinfectants override the prophylactic effects by far. Many kindergartens do not use these agents at all. Present knowledge offers no significant evidence of the necessity to apply disinfectants during the daily cleaning of kindergartens. PMID- 2525693 TI - [AIDS: phobia and real anxiety--case reports from AIDS counseling in the public health office]. AB - Different opinions on AIDS phobia are presented, referring to five cases of AIDS phobia, selected from clients frequently visiting the AIDS consultation office in the Department of Public Health in Ulm. This problematic and difficult group of clients can be offered help only by close cooperation with therapeutical institutions. PMID- 2525695 TI - [Psychopathologic differentiation of aggressive criminals as an aid in expert assessment]. AB - Psychiatric assessment and treatment of aggressive mentally ill offenders is one of the most difficult tasks in forensic psychiatry. Whereas psychiatric literature mostly refers to a uniform definition of aggression, different forms of aggression have been shown in animal experiments. In this study it was tested, whether a psychopathological differentiation of aggression was possible in men. In 124 individuals accused of homicide a preliminary dichotomic differentiation into undercontrolled and overcontrolled types of violent offenders (Megargee 1984) was examined. 60% of the population could be assigned to one of the two types. Undercontrolled individuals reacted violently when overburdened by situational conflicts. This form of aggression was called asthenic aggression. It was significantly more frequent in the mentally ill and led more often to the conclusion of diminished responsibility. In the undercontrolled offender aggression served mostly to achieve immediate goals. This form of violence was called sthenic aggression. PMID- 2525696 TI - The clinical presentation of lumbar spinal stenosis. AB - A retrospective review of 49 patients hospitalized with newly diagnosed lumbar spinal stenosis describes the presentation of this unusual cause of back pain. The pain distribution was bilateral in half of the cases and neurogenic claudication, thought to be diagnostic, was reported in only 20% of cases. Multiple levels of stenosis were identified in the majority of patients, with L 4/5 being the most common site, and stenosis co-existed with lumbar disc disease in one-third of patients. The diverse presentation and lack of a screening clinical marker make spinal stenosis difficult to recognize clinically in patients presenting with low-back pain. PMID- 2525694 TI - [Minimal cerebral dysfunction and partial disorders of performance in children]. AB - On-target examination of children has been increasingly revealing minimal cerebral dysfunction (MCD) and in some cases also partial disturbances of performance. Both the aetiology and the symptomatic are not uniform, especially with MCD. There is a predominance of overlapping between MCD and the partial performance disturbances. Case reports are presented as selections from the enormous variety of possible disturbances, partly supplemented by drawings. There are neither any suitabloe screening methods nor any causal treatment for both disturbances. Nevertheless, most surprising results can be achieved by symptomatic treatment if suitable measures are carried out with great intensity and for a prolonged period. PMID- 2525697 TI - [Demonstration of the lymphokine mechanism of the reinforcement of lymphoid proliferation during liver regeneration in mice]. AB - Changes in the ability of mouse splenocytes to proliferate early after partial hepatectomy have been studied. Proliferative activity of mouse splenocytes in mixed lymphocyte culture and in spontaneous proliferation in vitro test increased within 4, 17 and 24 hours after operation as compared with pseudo-operated control. After 4 hours of cultivation splenocytes of partially hepatectomized mice excreted into culture medium factor(s) that enhanced proliferative activity of intact mouse lymphocytes both in vitro and in vivo. The factor is thermolabile, operates nonspecifically, and is produced by T-lymphocytes. PMID- 2525698 TI - [Structure of the correlations of genetic and environmental factors in congenital hip dislocation]. AB - The aim of this paper was to determine the mechanisms of development or manifestations of the congenital dislocation of the hip by the method of multivariate analysis. The source of information were the family data about 300 children with congenital dislocation of the hip aged from 3 months to 15 years who had not been specially selected from those treated at the Centre and 300 children of the same age from unselected population. All the examinees were Georgians by nationality. Clinical methods of examination were employed. The results of the cluster analysis showed that the system of prognostic signs of the congenital dislocation of the hip consisted of 13 clusters in the experimental group (4 independent and 9 correlated) and of 13 clusters in the control group (5 independent and 8 correlated). The signs under investigation comprised the following groups of probable factors of the congenital dislocation of the hip: social-biological, geographical, obstetrical-gynecological, risk factors during the pregnancy, risk factors during the child birth on the mother's part, risk factors on the child's part, perinatal factors, postnatal factors, abnormalities of the child and its relatives. The obtained system of prognosis is well agreed with the biological mechanisms of the congenital dislocation of the hip. These data may be used for making perinatal and preclinical diagnosis, for raising the efficiency of medicogenetic consultations and for the initial orthopaedic prevention of the disease. PMID- 2525699 TI - Effects of aldosterone and atrial natriuretic peptide on water and electrolyte homeostasis of sick neonates. AB - To clarify fluid homeostasis in neonates, 27 sick neonates (6 had respiratory distress syndrome, 12 had hyperbilirubinemia, and nine were low birth wt infants) were studied on 13 to 15 days of age. The infants were stabilized and required neither ventilation nor intravenous fluids at the time of study. All infants were breast fed, and their sodium intake ranged from 1.7 to 2.9 (2.2 +/- 0.3) mEq/kg/d. Gestational age ranged from 30 to 39 (34 +/- 3.4) wk and birth wt ranged from 1080 to 3280 (2,070 +/- 672) g. Creatinine clearance (Ccr), fractional excretion of sodium (FENa), fluid and electrolyte balance, plasma aldosterone and human atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) concentrations were determined and analyzed according to conceptional age (CA) to clarify their maturational changes. None of the infants had a negative sodium balance or hyponatremia. Ccr remained almost constant until the 36th wk of CA, after which an abrupt increase occurred. FENa and plasma aldosterone level of infants less than the 32nd wk of CA were high (0.75 +/- 0.33%, 2868 +/- 1153 pg/ml, respectively) when compared with those in infants of the 33 to 34th wk of CA (0.47 +/- 0.12%, 1,663 +/- 488 pg/ml, respectively). There was a negative correlation between FENa and plasma aldosterone level in all cases (p less than 0.01). Plasma ANP level of all infants were higher than those of healthy adults (40 +/- 20 pg/ml). A good correlation was observed between Ccr and plasma ANP level in infants less than 36th wk of CA.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525701 TI - lambda SK9--a diphasmid for constructing genomic libraries, capable of converting inserts into plasmid and single stranded forms. PMID- 2525700 TI - ATPase activity of the UvrA and UvrAB protein complexes of the Escherichia coli UvrABC endonuclease. AB - We have analyzed the ATPase activity exhibited by the UvrABC DNA repair complex. The UvrA protein is an ATPase whose lack of DNA dependence may be related to the ATP induced monomer-dimer transitions. ATP induced dimerization may be responsible for the enhanced DNA binding activity observed in the presence of ATP. Although the UvrA ATPase is not stimulated by dsDNA, such DNA can modulate the UvrA ATPase activity by decreases in Km and Vm and alterations in the Ki for ADP and ATP-gamma-S. The induction of such changes upon binding to DNA may be necessary for cooperative interactions of UvrA with UvrB that result in a DNA stimulated ATPase for the UvrAB protein complex. The UvrAB ATPase displays unique kinetic profiles that are dependent on the structure of the DNA effector. These kinetic changes correlate with changes in footprinting patterns, the stabilization of protein complexes on DNA damage and with the expression of helicase activity. PMID- 2525702 TI - lambda SK15--a diphasmid for construction expression cDNA libraries at BamHI and EcoRI sites with selection against non-recombinant and false recombinant phages. PMID- 2525703 TI - [Parametric representation of kidney function using 99mTc mercaptoacetyltriglycine (MAG3)]. AB - 99mTc-mercaptoacetyltriglycine (MAG3) has recently been introduced for imaging kidney function. Due to the much lower radiation dose per MBq, the total administered activity can be much higher than in the case of 131I-ortho-iodo hippurate (OIH). The improved counting statistics make this tracer useful for parametric imaging of the kidneys. To investigate this potential of MAG3, its kinetics was compared with that of the reference tracer OIH in 38 patients. Parameters of extrarenal tracer kinetics such as the distribution volumes, the whole-body elimination times and the clearance rates showed a good correlation; however, the clearance rate of MAG3 was always lower than that of OIH. The intrarenal kinetics was investigated using the transfer function which was calculated by deconvolution analysis of the renographic curves. Parameters of the transfer function such as the amplitude, extraction fraction and mean transport time demonstrated a high correlation between the two tracers. Since MAG3 seems to be suitable for parametric imaging of kidney function, parametric images of perfusion, uptake, extraction and transport times were calculated by deconvolution analysis of the MAG3 pixel-renograms in various renal disorders. The parameters were distributed homogeneously throughout the parenchyma of normal kidneys. In a kidney with a hemodynamically significant renal artery stenosis the perfusion parameter was decreased and the time parameter was prolonged. Further examples of a renal graft acute tubular necrosis, an obstructive uropathy, an obstructive nephropathy and of a horse-shoe kidney demonstrate that the parametric images are useful for quantitative investigation of regional renal function. PMID- 2525704 TI - Admission criteria for handicapped students. PMID- 2525705 TI - [Role of the Langerhans cell in atopic dermatitis]. PMID- 2525706 TI - [Critical analysis of 1000 systematic assays of serum levels of vitamin B12 and folates]. AB - Between January 15 and April 30, 1988, one thousand assays of serum vitamin B12 and folates were performed, and the reasons why they were requested as well as their clinical usefulness are discussed. In 50 cases these assays were requested for a suspected myeloproliferative syndrome; in some of the patients with polycythaemia vera an excess of B12 was observed without hyperleukocytosis, an argument for keeping the B12 assay as an element of initial evaluation. In numerous cases the assays were performed for aetiological evaluation of a macrocytosis of suspected alcoholic origin in most patients; more than 50 per cent of the patient had folate deficiency and only a few had low B12 values. Folate levels were frequently low and B12 levels generally normal in patients with gastrointestinal disease, but many of them had been supplemented with folate and/or B12 prior to the assay. More than 20 per cent of the 1,000 assays were performed in patients aged 80 years or more, and more than 50 per cent of them had a low folate level; this has no consequences for individual subjects, but it may be of epidemiological or sociological interest. It must be mentioned that too many blood samples (more than 40 per cent) were sent to the laboratory without adequate information and after supplementation in 20 per cent of the cases. Very few patients with very low B12 levels were subjected to Schilling's test, so that the clinical usefulness of this assay, as currently utilized, is questionable in a large number of cases. PMID- 2525707 TI - [Primary hyperaldosteronism caused by unilateral macronodular hyperplasia]. AB - A case or primary hyperaldosteronism due to unilateral macronodular adrenal hyperplasia is presented. This entity is exceptional: a review of the literature has yielded only three similar cases. The significance of these adrenal nodules is discussed; in particular, they are compared with the nodules found in hypertensive subjects. Their course after surgery is similar to that of Conn's adenoma. PMID- 2525708 TI - [The glomerulopathies of cirrhosis of the liver]. AB - Since 1970, the types of glomerulopathy encountered in patients with cirrhosis of the liver have been accurately determined. In alcoholic cirrhosis IgA glomerulonephritis is frequent, usually non-proliferative and latent, sometimes membranoproliferative. Defective elimination of circulating immune complexes made up of bacterial or food antigens and IgA antibodies is thought to play a part in the pathogenesis of this type of glomerulonephritis. Extramembranous or membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis, occasionally containing the viral antigen, may complicate post-hepatitis cirrhosis, in which case an antiviral treatment might be effective against the renal disease. PMID- 2525709 TI - [Regressive left intraventricular thrombosis during hypereosinophilia]. PMID- 2525710 TI - [Sciatica caused by arachnoid cyst]. PMID- 2525711 TI - [Crisis of generalized epilepsy after absorption of zidovudine at a toxic dose]. PMID- 2525712 TI - [Failure of antimalarial prophylaxis by chloroquine in Niger]. PMID- 2525713 TI - [Osteonecrosis in patients undergoing renal transplant. Decrease in frequency since the use of cyclosporin]. PMID- 2525714 TI - [A new use for intrabronchial cryotherapy: extraction of foreign bodies]. PMID- 2525715 TI - [Effect of meteorologic factors on the unexpected appearance of cerebral vascular complications]. PMID- 2525716 TI - [Immediate postoperative measurement of systolic pressure of the right ventricle after repair of tetralogy of Fallot. Comparison with measurements obtained after the operation]. PMID- 2525717 TI - [Non 01 Vibrio cholerae septicemia]. PMID- 2525719 TI - [Ro (SS-A) protein and its antibodies]. PMID- 2525718 TI - [New water-soluble iodinated contrast products]. PMID- 2525720 TI - [Polyendocrinopathy combined with primary pulmonary arterial hypertension]. AB - We report the case of a woman who had premature menopause, adrenal insufficiency and hypothyroidism by peripheral gland lesion, all most probably due to an autoimmune disorder, and who subsequently developed primary pulmonary arterial hypertension. The causes of this hypertension are ill-defined, but an autoimmune origin has often been envisaged since primary pulmonary arterial hypertension is not unfrequently associated with connective tissue diseases. Its association with an autoimmune polyendocrinopathy has only been reported, to our knowledge, on four occasions; in all 4 cases the thyroid gland was involved, and a connective tissue disease was present in 3 of them. Our case, which includes adrenal insufficiency and premature menopause is, as far as we know, unique. The possible link between these various diseases is their autoimmune nature, in which case primary pulmonary arterial hypertension would belong to the category of organ specific autoimmune diseases. Our case supports the hypothesis that a number of isolated primary pulmonary arterial hypertensions could be of autoimmune origin. PMID- 2525721 TI - [Left ventricular function in obstructive chronic bronchopneumopathy]. AB - Left ventricular (LV) function was studied, using echocardiography, radionuclide angiography and right catheterization, in 20 patients (mean age 60.9 +/- 1.5 years) with severe stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and without known heart disease. The diagnosis of LV failure, suspected on clinical grounds in 8 of these patients, was confirmed by raised pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) in only one patient. Nineteen subjects had normal PCWP and LV ejection fraction (LVEF) values, radionuclide LVEF and end diastolic LV dimension being the most powerful discriminators between the single abnormal patient and the others. Echocardiograms of sufficient quality were obtained in 11 out of the 19 normal patients and constantly showed LV dimensions in the lowest part of the normal range. The stroke volume index (SVI) - cardiac output being measured by thermodilution - was found to be decreased in 9 of 14 patients with normal LVEF values. We conclude that in patients with severe COPD (1) LV failure is quite unfrequent and the empirical use of digitalis should not be recommended, (2) radionuclide angiography is the most useful procedure for routine evaluation of LV function and (3) a decreased SVI is frequently found in patients with a small LV cavity and a normal LVEF, suggesting some degree of diastolic dysfunction of the left ventricle. PMID- 2525722 TI - [Ophthalmologic manifestations revealing a forme fruste of Recklinghausen's disease]. AB - The authors report the case of a 14-year old European girl who presented with ptosis of the left eyelid and in whom other ophthalmic findings (Lisch's nodules, larger wing sphenoid bone hypoplasia at computed tomography) led to the diagnosis of von recklinghausen's disease. They recall and describe the main ophthalmic manifestations of this disease which may affect the eyelids (with a typical plexiform neuroma for example) the orbit (with bone dysplasia) and the eyeball (with very frequent Lisch's nodules). They discuss the frequency of such manifestations and their value in the diagnosis. PMID- 2525723 TI - [Tumor necrosis factor alpha (cachectin). Biological properties and role in physiopathology]. AB - Cachectin, or TNF-alpha (tumor necrosis factor alpha) was first described as a product of activated monocytes capable of inducing tumor cell lysis both in vitro and in vivo. In addition to this activity, TNF-alpha has been shown to possess many other biological properties: it modulates the synthesis of the enzymes involved in lipogenesis and regulates the function of various types of normal cells, such as fibroblasts, osteoblasts, endothelial cells and adipocytes. Moreover, TNF-alpha - displays multifunctional immunoregulatory activity on T and B lymphocytes and on natural killer and lymphokine activated killer cells and plays a major role in the defence against infections and in the immune response against cancer. In severe infection or cancer, an excessive production of TNF alpha may be responsible for septic shocks or cachexia in both animals and man. The high conservation of the TNF-alpha gene in all species despite its toxicity indicates that it plays a crucial but still partially understood role. PMID- 2525724 TI - [Cholecystectomy by coelioscopy]. AB - Operative coelioscopy, widely used in gynaecological surgery and appendicectomy, can be helpful in cholecystectomy. Sixty-three patients have been operated upon by this technique which has the advantages of small scars and rapid recovery with shortening of hospital stay. At the moment, its sole indication is cholecystolithiasis without acute complication. The risks associated with this new technique justify a careful selection of its indications and make it imperative for the operator to be a surgeon with wide experience of biliary tract surgery. PMID- 2525725 TI - [X-ray computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging in the diagnosis of trapped popliteal arteries]. PMID- 2525726 TI - [Percutaneous injection of cement into metastatic vertebrae]. PMID- 2525727 TI - [Thrombocytopenic thrombotic purpura occurring in spite of antiaggregant treatment using ticlopidine]. PMID- 2525729 TI - [Otitis caused by Vibrio alginolyticus]. PMID- 2525728 TI - [Compressive inflammatory epiduritis in ankylosing spondylitis]. PMID- 2525730 TI - [12th cranial nerve paralysis in high cervical carotid dissection]. PMID- 2525731 TI - [Fatal poisoning by minaprine]. PMID- 2525732 TI - [Delivery in women with hereditary angioneurotic edema. Good tolerance of peridural anesthesia]. PMID- 2525733 TI - [New cava filter placed percutaneously. Results of animal experimentation]. PMID- 2525734 TI - [Tracing cancer of the breast before 40 years of age]. PMID- 2525735 TI - [Treatment of acute septicemic brucellosis by a combination doxycycline and rifampicin]. PMID- 2525736 TI - [New criteria of rheumatoid arthritis]. PMID- 2525737 TI - [Epidemiology of cerebrovascular accidents. According to Dijon's registry (1985 1988)]. AB - The results of a 4-year prospective study of stroke in a community of 140,000 people are reported. Eight hundred and forty-two strokes were recorded, 70 per cent in University Hospitals, 20 per cent in private hospitals and 10 per cent at home. Ninety-four per cent of the patients had a CT scan. The annual incidence of stroke was 145/100,000 people, whereas the incidences of infarct, cerebral haemorrhage and subarachnoid haemorrhage were 121, 21 and 6.6/100,000 people respectively. These results, compared with those of other registers, clearly show the superiority of population-based registers over hospital-based registers. PMID- 2525738 TI - [Immunoglobulin D multiple myeloma. A retrospective study in the Languedoc region]. AB - Between January 1, 1972 and December 31, 1985, 28 cases of IgD myeloma were diagnosed in the Languedoc region, southern France. These cases did not show the male predominance and early development usually found with this type of myeloma. Comparisons with a series of myelomas of all types detected in the same region during a similar period revealed an increased frequency of extramedullary clinical localizations, osteolytic lesions, anaemia and renal impairment. The monoclonal component was sometimes meagre, but it could be detected by electrophoresis on cellogel in 81 per cent of the cases. The lambda isotype, largely predominant, might account for these biological abnormalities and for a particularly sombre prognosis: the median survival was 11 months as against 29 months with myelomas of all types. There was no statistically significant correlation between any of the clinical and laboratory findings and the duration of survival. PMID- 2525739 TI - [Treatment of epidermoid carcinoma of the penis]. AB - Epidermoid carcinoma of the penis is a rare type of cancer. Treatment of the primary lesion consists of amputation, although curietherapy can be effective in some cases as a conservative treatment. The prognosis is determined by the presence of absence of lymph node invasion, but the therapeutic strategy to be used when invaded lymph nodes are present remains controversial. Lymph node dissection is the only effective treatment of metastatic adenopathy, but its high morbidity rate limits its indications. PMID- 2525740 TI - [Periosteal chondroma of the hand]. AB - Juxtacortical chondroma is the less common of the two varieties of chondroma which may develop in the hand. Two cases are reported, and the authors review the clinical, radiological, pathological and therapeutic data concerning this tumour which was first individualized by Lichtenstein and Hall in 1952. Clinicians should be well informed on the characteristics of juxtacortical chondroma, since its differential diagnosis with a malignant lesion may be extremely difficult, even at histology, and since conservative surgery with complete excision of the chondroma usually results in permanent cure. PMID- 2525741 TI - [Correlation of the skillful hand and the laterality of acquired inguinal hernia]. PMID- 2525742 TI - [The celiac block test under x-ray computed tomography before possible surgical splanchnicectomy]. PMID- 2525743 TI - [Efficacy of intravenous methoxamine in propafenone poisoning]. PMID- 2525744 TI - [Prescribing indomethacin to prevent premature labor. Risk of cardiomyopathy]. PMID- 2525745 TI - [How far can we go in surgery of metastases of peripheral bones?]. PMID- 2525746 TI - [Nephrotoxicity of lithium]. PMID- 2525747 TI - [Complications of rheumatoid pericarditis: constriction and tamponade]. AB - Pericarditis is frequent in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. It is usually asymptomatic, but cases of constrictive pericarditis or, more rarely, tamponade have been reported. In such cases, the study of pericardial fluid is of special interest for the aetiological diagnosis. Early medical treatment with or without pericardiocentesis is effective in most cases of tamponade, but constrictive pericarditis demands pericardiectomy. We report here three cases of pericarditis responsible for cardiac compression: two cases of tamponade and one case of constrictive pericarditis. PMID- 2525748 TI - [Adoptive immunotherapy with interleukin 2. Initial results of a pilot study in 6 cancer patients]. AB - Adoptive immunotherapy of cancer consists of using interleukin-2 to induce the formation of lymphokine-activated killer (LAK) cells which are toxic to tumoral cells. Six patients, 3 with hypernephroma and 3 with melanoma, were treated with interleukin-2. Drug toxicity consisted of capillary leakage syndrome in one case and reversible renal impairment in another. One patient showed an objective response; transient subjective improvement was observed in all patients. PMID- 2525750 TI - [Fracture secondary to algodystrophia]. PMID- 2525749 TI - [Antibioprophylaxis with cefamandole in neurosurgery]. PMID- 2525751 TI - [Hypophosphoremia: a possible cause of central pontine myelinolysis]. PMID- 2525752 TI - [Association of Turner's syndrome-hypoparathyroidism and insulin-dependent diabetes]. PMID- 2525753 TI - [Prolactin determination in impotence]. PMID- 2525754 TI - [Tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin 2 and IgG-BF III (CD 16). Evaluation of serum levels in gynecologic cancer]. PMID- 2525756 TI - [Apropos of the treatment of chronic eosinophilic pneumonia]. PMID- 2525755 TI - [Should all primary hypoparathyroidism be surgically treated?]. PMID- 2525757 TI - [Severe asthma]. PMID- 2525758 TI - [Continuous high-dose corticosteroid pressured aerosol therapy in steroid dependent asthma]. AB - Two therapeutic trials aimed at determining whether a high-dose inhaled corticosteroid, beclomethasone dipropionate (BDP), could reduce or suppress a long term and continuous treatment with a systemic corticosteroid, triamcinolone acetonide (TA), were carried out in a homogeneous population of severe, steroid dependent asthmatics. The first one was a controlled, double-blind versus placebo trial involving 25 patients followed up for 5 months. The second one was an open trial involving 105 patients followed up for 12 months. In both trials the mean doses of TA were reduced by 60 to 65 per cent, and TA could be totally or nearly totally suppressed in almost 60 per cent of the cases with clinical and functional results that were equal or superior to those previously obtained with systemic corticosteroid therapy. It is concluded that: (a) continuous systemic corticosteroid therapy in mean doses of more than 5 mg/day of prednisone equivalent is now rarely indicated in patients with steroid-dependent asthma, and (b) inhaled corticosteroid therapy with BDP could be extended to cases of non steroid-dependent asthma inadequately controlled by bronchodilators. PMID- 2525759 TI - [Correction of selenium deficiency in patients with renal failure undergoing hemodialysis]. AB - Plasma selenium levels (p Se) as well as glutathione peroxidase activity in plasma (p GPx) and in erythrocytes (e GPx) were measured in 39 haemodialysis patients. Glutathione peroxidase is a selenium-dependent enzyme which protects cells against oxidation. The mean level values obtained were significantly lower in patients than in controls: p Se: 38 +/- 14 versus 88 +/- 17 micrograms/l; p GPx: 15 +/- 32 versus 334 +/- 41 IU/l; e GPx: 19 +/- 4 versus 26 +/- 4 IU/g Hb. These values were found to correlate significantly with the duration of dialysis and with the type of membrane utilized. The total muscular mass was significantly smaller in patients with the lowest p Se or p GPx values. At echocardiography, septal hypertrophy correlated with both p Se and p GPx. Twenty patients were supplemented with sodium selenite administered orally at the end of each haemodialysis session during 6 months. After this period, muscular mass and septal hypertrophy were decreased and the echocardiographic contractility parameters were improved, albeit not significantly. PMID- 2525760 TI - [African trypanosomiasis in children treated with eflornithine. A case]. AB - We report the case of a 14-year old African girl presenting with late-stage African T. gambiense trypanosomiasis. She was treated with eflornithine, an ornithine decarboxylase inhibitor which is a key enzyme in the biosynthesis of polyamine. Polyamines are essential to the multiplication of trypanosomes. Two treatment courses were necessary to achieve an apparent cure after one year; however, a longer follow up will be required to confirm whether or not the cure is permanent. Determination of drug concentrations in plasma and cerebrospinal fluid was performed during the second treatment course. Side-effects were easily controlled. PMID- 2525762 TI - [Involvement of the median nerve associated with cutaneous lesions and trophic disorders of the fingers]. PMID- 2525761 TI - [Vascular risk of oral contraceptive agents: realities and mechanisms. I. Risk evaluation]. AB - The suspected risk of oral contraception was confirmed when large scale epidemiological studies became available. The present work recalls the methodology of a good evaluation, the pros and cons of retrospective and prospective studies, the different appreciations provided by measuring "relative risk" or "attributable risk". In terms of public health, the data obtained supported the necessity to include mortality related to oral contraception in an evaluation of reproductive mortality. This work compares the incidence of vascular complications evaluated through different studies, according to the criteria selected and the type of vascular disease. The advantage of lowering estrogen content is considered. PMID- 2525763 TI - [Effects of naloxone on the analgesia induced by vibratory stimulation]. PMID- 2525764 TI - [Increased platelet-free calcium concentration in pregnancy hypertension before treatment]. PMID- 2525765 TI - [Insertion of a temporary percutaneous filter before suprarenal caval thrombectomy]. PMID- 2525766 TI - [Ileal metastasis of epidermoid carcinoma disclosed by digestive hemorrhage]. PMID- 2525767 TI - [Treatment of blue phlebitis by in situ thrombolysis with a plasminogen activator]. PMID- 2525768 TI - [Severe chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium falciparum malaria acquired in Senegal]. PMID- 2525769 TI - [Renal failure disclosing sarcoidosis]. PMID- 2525770 TI - [Bilateral hydrocele after prosthetic repair with preperitoneal prostheses of bilateral inguinal hernia]. PMID- 2525771 TI - [Etiologic factors of rapid destructive coxarthrosis]. PMID- 2525772 TI - [Use of recombinant erythropoietin in the treatment of anemia of chronic renal insufficiency]. PMID- 2525773 TI - [Use of salbutamol in the treatment of severe hyperkalemia in hemodialysed patients]. AB - The possibility of obtaining a rapid fall of kalaemia in patients with renal failure under haemodialysis by injecting salbutamol intravenously in doses of 0.5 mg over 15 minutes was tested in 11 subjects. Kalaemia fell by 1.08 +/- 0.30 mmol in 30 minutes, 75 per cent of the effect being obtained at the end of the infusion. Malaise with tachycardia was frequent but always transient. Thus, a rapid infusion of salbutamol seems to be well tolerated and effective against hyperkalaemia, provided two contra-indications are observed: coronary disease and treatment with beta-blockers. PMID- 2525774 TI - [Vascular risk of oral contraceptive agents: realities and mechanisms. II. Mechanisms of vascular accidents: their prevention]. AB - The mechanism of the vascular complications related to oral contraception is still unclear. In the present paper are discussed: (a) the possibility of accelerated atherosclerosis, suggested by the presence of a number of risk factors, a hypothesis which is not confirmed by pathological findings; (b) the possibility of a coagulation disease leading to thrombosis; (c) the arguments in favor of an immunological mechanism. This hypothesis is supported by the strong correlation between vascular complications and presence of antibodies against the synthetic hormones contained in the drug. It is also consistent with the aspect of the lesions, which might be induced by circulating immune complexes and antibodies. It is proposed that women at risk should be detected by systematic determination of antiethinylestradiol antibodies. PMID- 2525775 TI - [Bone and muscle density of the lumbar spine]. PMID- 2525776 TI - [Myocarditis after the administration of antilymphocyte serum]. PMID- 2525777 TI - [Risk of treatment with antivitamin K agents in patients with polycystic kidney. Increased by combination with a salicylate]. PMID- 2525778 TI - [Neuromuscular toxicity of colchicine. A case]. PMID- 2525779 TI - [Primary glomerulonephritis in adults. Development of the incidence in Picardie during a 10-year period (1976-1985)]. PMID- 2525780 TI - A human immunoglobulin G receptor exists in both polypeptide-anchored and phosphatidylinositol-glycan-anchored forms. AB - Several cDNA clones encoding the human immunoglobulin G receptor CD16 were isolated from human lung or peripheral blood leukocyte cDNA libraries. Nucleotide sequence comparisons revealed that the cDNAs could be divided into two groups. cDNA clones in one group encode a protein that terminates 4 amino acids after the putative transmembrane domain. Clones in the second group encode a protein with an extra 21 amino acids that could comprise a cytoplasmic domain. Direct peptide sequencing was used to determine the N terminus of the mature CD16 receptor protein and supported the existence of the two forms of the receptor. Treatment of neutrophils with phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C resulted in the release of a large percentage of the CD16 molecules from the cell surface. In contrast, treatment of natural killer cells with phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C did not release any CD16 from the cell surface. These data demonstrate that both polypeptide-anchored and phosphatidylinositol-glycan anchored forms of the CD16 molecule exist and that they are differentially expressed on neutrophils and natural killer cells. PMID- 2525781 TI - Selective displacement of nuclear proteins by antitumor drugs having affinity for nucleic acids. AB - The nuclear chromatin binding sites of the antitumor drugs mitoxantrone, ametantrone, doxorubicin, mithramycin, and actinomycin D and the intercalating ligand ethidium were studied by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of the proteins released from rat liver nuclei in the presence and absence of these drugs in buffer of low ionic strength (10 mM NaCl). At 25-50 microM free ligand concentration, each drug produced a specific and reproducible pattern of extractable proteins of different molecular weight by (i) releasing new proteins, (ii) altering the quantity of particular extracted proteins, and/or (iii) selectively entrapping other proteins in the nuclei. Ethidium, up to 100 microM, did not affect release of proteins from the nuclei. These results indicate that each ligand either has different binding site(s) in chromatin or modulates chromatin structure in a specific way by changing the affinity of different sets of proteins for their respective binding sites, resulting in their selective extraction or entrapment. The lack of effect of ethidium indicates that intercalation of the ligand to DNA, per se, does not alter the release of nuclear proteins. If patterns of nuclear proteins selectively released or retained by antitumor drugs are found to correlate with biological activity, this type of analysis may be helpful in new drug design and screening. PMID- 2525782 TI - Clonidine and morphine increase atrial natriuretic peptide secretion in anesthetized rats. AB - In order to determine whether the activity of central alpha 2-adrenergic and opioid receptors influence plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) levels, clonidine and morphine were infused into the lateral cerebral ventricle for 45 min in anesthetized Sprague-Dawley rats. The central administration of a low dose of clonidine (10 ng/min) caused a significant increase in plasma ANP without changing arterial blood pressure or central venous pressure. Pretreatment with yohimbine (5 micrograms/min) completely blocked the effect of clonidine. Central infusion of morphine (100 ng/min) also elevated plasma ANP levels and naloxone (5 micrograms/min) blunted this effect. Intravenous infusion of the same dose of clonidine or morphine did not affect plasma ANP levels. Moreover, the effect of clonidine on plasma ANP was partially blocked by pretreatment with naloxone (5 micrograms/min). These results suggest that central alpha 2-adrenergic and opioid receptors may be involved in ANP secretion. PMID- 2525783 TI - Relaxing effect of atrial natriuretic factor on endothelin-precontracted vascular strips. AB - Endothelin (ET), a peptide recently isolated from the supernatant of cultured porcine aortic endothelial cells, is a potent vasoconstrictor. On the other hand, atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) is a powerful vasorelaxant found in cardiocytes. Its effect was investigated in ET-precontracted rabbit vascular strips. ANF induced a dose-dependent relaxation of maximally-precontracted mesenteric, renal and aortic strips. Mesenteric artery strips were more sensitive to ANF than either renal or aortic strips. The relaxant effect of ANF on ET-precontracted arteries was more potent than that of other vasorelaxant agents, such as isoproterenol and sodium nitroprusside. Renal and aortic arteries were more sensitive to the vasoconstrictor effect of ET than mesenteric strips. From these results, we conclude that ANF may play a role as a physiological antagonist of ET. The different sensitivity of vascular segments to ET could be due to varying vascular ET receptor densities. PMID- 2525784 TI - Influence of propranolol on platelet aggregation and thromboxane B2 production from platelet-rich plasma and whole blood. AB - The beta-adrenoceptor antagonist propranolol is used in the therapy of hypertension and ischemic heart disease. The aim of our study was to evaluate the effects of this drug on platelet aggregation and on synthesis of thromboxane B2 (the stable metabolite of Thromboxane A2) from platelet rich plasma (PRP), whole blood samples and during spontaneous clotting. The results indicate that propranolol at concentrations near the therapeutic range, significantly inhibit collagen and thrombin-induced platelet aggregation and TxB2 synthesis from PRP. Furthermore the drug demonstrates inhibitory activity on B-TG release and TxB2 production from whole blood samples and on spontaneous clotting. The results suggest that some benefits of propranolol in the treatment of patients with coronary artery disease or cardiovascular conditions associated with platelet hyperaggregability may also be related to interference with platelet activation "in vivo" and with TxA2 generation. PMID- 2525785 TI - Effects of 8-OH-DPAT on motor activity in the rat. AB - The administration of 8-OH-DPAT to rats produced a dose-dependent suppression of spontaneous locomotor activity in an open field arena. 8-OH-DPAT was administered in the dose range 12.5-1,600 micrograms.kg-1 SC. Vertical activity ("rearing") was more sensitive to the treatment than horizontal activity ("locomotion"), both in terms of potency and efficacy. The activity along the walls of the open field arena ("peripheral activity") was increased, and the rearing activity was decreased, relative to total horizontal activity and total activity, respectively. There were no effects by 8-OH-DPAT on treadmill locomotion. The rectal temperature was decreased by 8-OH-DPAT administration, not only in animals tested in the open field, but also in animals with an increased body temperature, produced by treadmill locomotion. PMID- 2525787 TI - On developing expert-based decision-support systems in physical therapy: the NIOSH low back atlas. AB - We have described the process of the initial development of an expert-based decision-support system for the management of patients with low back syndrome. Important considerations for developing decision-support systems are reviewed, both generally and specifically. The term "expert" is dissected and discussed. Our work so far involved congregation of a number of experts and compilation of a testing protocol. We are now refining the system for specific populations and purposes. PMID- 2525786 TI - Potentiation by serotonergic inhibition of yawning induced by dopamine receptor agonists in rats. AB - Low doses of the dopamine D2-receptor agonist, B-HT 920 (25 micrograms/kg, SC), and the dopamine D1/D2-receptor agonists, apomorphine (50 micrograms/kg, SC) and piribedil (1 mg/kg, SC), evoked yawning. However, the dopamine D1-receptor agonist, SK&F 38393 (2 mg/kg, SC), failed to induce yawning. The yawning responses induced by B-HT 920, apomorphine or piribedil were markedly increased without eliciting stereotypy by pretreatment with reserpine (5 mg/kg, IP, 24 hr). These yawning responses were also enhanced by p-chlorophenylalanine (PCPA) (300 mg/kg, IP, 72 hr), but not by alpha-methyl-p-tyrosine (300 mg/kg, IP, 6 hr). The yawning induced by B-HT 920 given alone and in combination with reserpine or PCPA was inhibited by spiperone (0.5 mg/kg, IP) or scopolamine (0.5 mg/kg, IP), but not by SCH 23390 (0.5 mg/kg, IP). The present results suggest that yawning is evoked by stimulation of dopamine D2-receptors having a high affinity and consequent muscarinic activation, and that the yawning induced by dopamine receptor agonists is potentiated by decreases in serotonergic neuron activity. PMID- 2525788 TI - Hypothesis-oriented algorithms. AB - This has been a brief review of the HOAC system. Direct access and the use of other algorithms to guide this process fit well with the HOAC system. An example would be an algorithm designed to guide the physical therapist through the process of being the first evaluator of a patient with low back pain (Physical Therapy Department, US Public Health Service Hospital, San Francisco, Calif; unpublished data; 1976). The review of the system occurs at the first step (collect initial data). The examination of the patient occurs at step three. Step four would be to generate a working hypothesis that could lead either to referral to an appropriate practitioner or to continuation through the next step in this algorithm. The HOAC system requires the physical therapist to deal with defined problems and to document the actions that have been taken. This system lends itself to peer review and quality assurance questions. It helps the physical therapist to review his or her own performance, and it can help to identify weaknesses in patient management and at which step in the process these weaknesses occurred (eg, at the goal-setting level, at the hypothesis-generation level). By creating a better understanding of the performance of the physical therapist, this model can help determine which continuing education needs must be met. This method can also help us to understand the scientific basis for practice in that it requires testing of assumptions of treatment planning and goal achievement.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525790 TI - Infrapopliteal and below-knee popliteal lesions: treatment with sole laser thermal angioplasty. Work in progress. AB - Laser-assisted balloon angioplasty has been successfully performed in peripheral and coronary arteries; however, the ability to perform laser angioplasty alone without the need for subsequent balloon angioplasty has not been reported. In the present series, infrapopliteal and below-knee popliteal sole laser thermal angioplasty was successfully performed on 14 of 16 (88%) lesions in 10 patients. Initial clinical and hemodynamic improvement was observed in seven of 10 (70%) patients, with clinical failure noted in three nonsurgical candidates with poor distal vessel runoff. Short-term clinical follow-up (mean, 6 months) revealed 100% patency at the site of laser thermal angioplasty. Clinical success was maintained in five of seven (71%) patients; symptoms recurred in two patients who had undergone laser thermal angioplasty and adjuvant balloon angioplasty of superficial femoral artery lesions. Treatment of distal peripheral arterial lesions with laser thermal angioplasty alone is feasible; studies comparing it with conventional balloon angioplasty should be considered. PMID- 2525789 TI - Pull-through approach to percutaneous angioplasty of totally occluded common iliac arteries. AB - A method has been developed to increase the probability of success of percutaneous transluminal balloon angioplasty of total occlusions of the common iliac artery when conventional methods have failed. In 10 patients with a totally obstructed iliac artery, a guide wire was passed through a catheter placed from the contralateral side around the aortic bifurcation and antegrade through the total obstruction. The end of the wire was either snared by a retrieval basket or guided through a sheath in the ipsilateral common femoral artery, thus providing a firmly anchored pathway for subsequent manipulations. Balloons were then inserted retrograde through both common femoral arteries and dilated. In the first five patients, ipsilateral retrograde passage of a guide wire had failed despite multiple attempts with a variety of devices. In the other five patients, the contralateral antegrade approach was used initially. The new method was successful in all 10 patients with totally obstructed common iliac arteries. PMID- 2525791 TI - Recanalization of total arterial occlusions with the Kensey dynamic angioplasty catheter. AB - The Kensey dynamic angioplasty catheter is a new device for recanalization of peripheral arterial occlusions. Twelve patients with segmental occlusions who were not considered candidates for conventional bypass surgery because of cardiovascular risk factors were studied. Four of the patients were treated in the operating room. Two had excellent primary results in limb salvage situations, and recanalization of an occluded femoropopliteal bypass graft was successful in another. Bilateral iliac recanalizations in the fourth patient were locally successful but did not prevent the patient's death from advanced ischemic disease. Eight patients were treated percutaneously. Initial recanalization was successful in seven. Four had early reocclusions and required amputation below the knee. One suffered distal embolization after recanalization of a 6-cm popliteal segment and underwent above-the-knee amputation. Long-term follow-up (7 18 months) in the other three patients with successful primary recanalizations has confirmed patency of the recanalized segments. PMID- 2525792 TI - [Erythroderma caused by captopril]. PMID- 2525793 TI - [Circadian rhythm of atrial natriuretic peptide, plasma renin and aldosterone activity in healthy subjects and in patients with compensated liver cirrhosis]. AB - The circadian variations in atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), plasma renin activity (PRA) and plasma aldosterone (PA) have been investigated in a group of 6 patients with compensated cirrhosis of the liver compared with a group of 6 healthy subjects. All studied subjects were kept for a week on standardized life conditions, with a defined daily intake of 120 mEq of sodium and 60 mEq of potassium. Venous blood samples were collected during a whole day at 6, 8, 12, 18, 20 and 24 hours, with the subjects resting in the clinostatic position during the study. Plasma levels of ANP, PRA and PA were determined by radioimmunoassay. The data were analyzed by the cosinor method. The results show that healthy subjects present a significant circadian rhythm for the three biological variables, while patients with cirrhosis of the liver present a significant rhythm for PA only. Acrophase and amplitude of PA do not present any difference between control and patient groups. The levels of PRA and ANP are significantly higher in the cirrhotic patients. These data suggest in cirrhosis a deep variation in the secreting rhythm of PRA and ANP with maintenance, even at higher levels, of intrinsic PA rhythm. This is a possible index of time-related alterations of water-electrolyte balance and cardiovascular processes in liver cirrhosis. PMID- 2525794 TI - [Qualifications in the occupational field of rehabilitation and aid to the handicapped--presentation of a new concept for graduate study]. AB - Presented are the concept and initial course of post-graduate training open to graduates of the social sciences (i.e. holding a degree in social education, education, or social science), oriented on the occupational pattern of Rehabilitation Counsellor. The course has been set up in Bremen in cooperation with scientific institutions and rehabilitation facilities. Experience made with the first training course point to a need for specialist-based innovation in particular in the field of vocational rehabilitation. PMID- 2525796 TI - Immunoregulation in multiple sclerosis. PMID- 2525795 TI - The germline repertoire of T-cell receptor beta-chain genes in patients with multiple sclerosis. AB - The T-cell receptor (TCR) beta-chain gene repertoire of 40 multiple sclerosis (MS) patients was compared to that of 100 normal individuals. V-beta probes that represent 14 different V-beta subfamilies plus a C-beta probe were used to identify 53 separate beta-chain gene segments. No duplication or deletion of any of these 53 gene segments was found in the MS patients. Restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) alleles detected by V-beta 8, V-beta 11 and C-beta probes defined 8 different beta-chain haplotypes. The distribution of these haplotypes in Caucasian MS patients and normal individuals was significantly different (p = 0.012). Comparison of the DR2+ subset of MS patients (n = 32) to a second group of 43 Caucasian DR2+ normal individuals revealed that the distribution of these beta-chain haplotypes was significantly different in these two populations (p = 0.015). These results suggest that an MS susceptibility gene(s) may be located in the region of the TCR/beta-chain gene complex. PMID- 2525797 TI - [Clinicopathologic study of acute coronary occlusion in percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty]. AB - ACO occurred within 40 min (mean 15.7 min) after PTCA in 22 patients and more than 12 hours in 2. The group with ACO had a significantly higher incidence of female (46% vs 23%), acute myocardial infarction (63% vs 35%), eccentric lesions (73% vs 28%), tortuous lesions (30% vs 4%) and coronary dissection or intraluminal haziness (89% vs 34%). Luminal narrowing before and after PTCA was significantly higher in ACO group than in control group (93% and 56% vs 87% and 23%). Repeat PTCA was performed in 17 patients and was successful in 13. Coronary bypass surgery was performed in 4 patients. Intracoronary urokinase was ineffective to ACO. In 3 autopsy cases dying 5, 14 and 17 days after PTCA, large extent of intimal tears and thrombus in the space of tears and the lumens were observed. These results suggest that coronary dissection chiefly contributes to ACO and coronary thrombosis is superimposed for a secondary event in most of cases with ACO. PMID- 2525798 TI - [Massive pericardial effusion in a patient with scleroderma with special reference to concentration of alpha-hANP in plasma and pericardial effusion]. AB - A 41-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital because of scleroderma and combined valvular disease (mitral stenosis, aortic regurgitation, tricuspid regurgitation) associated with massive pericardial effusion. Plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (alpha-hANP) level was 130 pg/ml on admission, and increased temporarily with a decrease of pericardial effusion, without significant of changes of pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, pulmonary arterial pressure, right ventricular pressure nor right atrial pressure. These findings suggest that one of the mechanisms of alpha-hANP secretion, a stretch receptor mechanism, is interfered by the massive pericardial effusion. There was no relationship between atrial pressures and plasma alpha-hANP levels in this case. alpha-hANP concentration in pericardial effusion (486 pg/ml) was four to five folds higher than the plasma alpha-hANP levels. PMID- 2525799 TI - [Isolated muscular hydatid cyst of the abdominal wall]. PMID- 2525800 TI - [Efficacy, tolerability and therapeutic benefit of etodolac (Lodine 200) in rheumatologic practice]. AB - Efficacy, safety and therapeutic benefit of etodolac (Lodine 200) in rheumatological practice. An open clinical trial performed by 974 rheumatologists enabled an evaluation of efficacy, safety and therapeutic benefit of etodolac (Lodine 200) on 4,947 patients with rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and osteoarthritis of the lower limbs; the initial dosage was 600 mg/d (for 2 weeks), then 400 to 600 mg/d (for 2 to 4 weeks, according to the indication). Efficacy, assessed by classical items for NSAID's, was shown to be excellent to good by 61-77 p. 100 of patients, according to the indication. 7.7 p. 100 of patients only dropped out for lack of efficacy. 20.4 p. 100 of patients developed adverse effect(s) (AE), but the relationship between etodolac and AE was assessed "possible" or "probable" only for 9.6 p. 100 of patients; this figure should be compared to the 7.6 p. 100 of patients who dropped out for AE and to the 92 p. 100 of patients who assessed the global safety as "excellent or good". The therapeutic benefit was estimated very favorable: 75 p. 100 of patients felt better than at the beginning of the study, 64.5 p. 100 of patients wished to continue the treatment and the (mean) benefit-risk ratio assessed with a logarithm scale (-1 to +1), ranged from 0.45 to 0.6 according to the indication. Therefore, this trial confirmed the good efficacy and safety profile of etodolac on a large scale in normal clinical practice in France, following assessments during controlled trials. It also permitted to perfect new items of evaluation for NSAID's, in particular for therapeutic benefit. PMID- 2525801 TI - [Improving hospital work conditions: an integrated approach]. PMID- 2525802 TI - The effect of cyclosporin A in murine visceral leishmaniasis. AB - Leishmania donovani is an obligate intracellular protozoan parasite of macrophages whose control is effected by cellular mechanism. In order to determine the role of T-helper cells and their soluble mediators in the control of the infection, the effects of cyclosporin A (CsA) were studied in strains of mice (C57L/J and C57BL/6J) known to be resistant and susceptible. Mice treated with CsA (200 mg/kg) exhibited as early as day 15 a significant increase in the level of their infection. The number of parasites was 3 times higher in CsA treated mice of both strains when compared to untreated controls. The proportional difference in the level of infection between C57BL/6J and C57L/J mice was, however, not affected by treatment. Infection and CsA treatment, respectively, reduced or abolished the capacity of spleen cells to produce IL-2. Infection also abolished the production of IL-1 by macrophages. Both strains were, however, able to recover from the infection without functional T-helper lympho-cytes and/or the IL-1 IL-2 which had been inhibited by treatment with CsA. PMID- 2525803 TI - [Legislation and assistance in psychiatry]. PMID- 2525804 TI - [Is the exaggerated secretion of natriuretic atrial factor a homeostatic adaptation mechanism in pathology]. PMID- 2525806 TI - Impact of streptozotocin-induced diabetes on rat blood and alveolar bone affected by occlusal stress. AB - Adult male and female rats were used as test animals. The experimental diabetes mellitus was provoked with one dose of i.v. injection of streptozotocin (65 mg/kg body weight), which interferes with the insulin release mechanism in pancreatic beta cells. After a follow-up period of 10 wk an average loss of 10% of body weight and an increase of 25% in the amount of blood obtained by decapitation was recorded in the test animals. The biochemical assays performed on the serum of the diabetic rats showed, for both sexes, a fourfold rise in the plasma glucose level, a threefold rise in plasma alkaline phosphatase activity and plasma alanine transferase activity as well as a 1.5-fold rise in plasma creatine value. The two latter values indicated systematic disorders reflected in the liver and the kidneys. An increase in serum total calcium and hydroxyproline values was also detected. The clinical studies of the gingiva showed diminished tissue resistance in diabetic rats. The histologic studies of alveolar bone revealed retarded formation of bone matrix and new bone in diabetic animals. However, the stimulated metabolism in alveolar bone, due to the artificially induced stress, increased marginal bone cell activity in both the diabetic and the control group, resulting in increased crestal resorption in the former group. The differences in tissue response observed among the diabetic animals affected and unaffected by stress originated from the disturbed recovering mechanism typically found in diabetic animals. PMID- 2525805 TI - Effect of dopamine and dopamine-antagonist infusion on blood platelet count, size and release reaction in hypertensive and normotensive subjects. AB - To examine the effect of dopamine on in vivo platelet function and a possible platelet contribution to the clearance of dopamine we measured platelet count, platelet size and plasma concentration of the platelet specific protein beta thromboglobulin (BTG) in groups of 40 year old untreated hypertensive and normotensive men. One hypertensive (n = 10) and one normotensive (n = 10) group received dopamine infusion at doses from 0.5 to 2.0 micrograms/kg/min which increased plasma dopamine 100-fold from baseline. Two other groups of hypertensive (n = 10) and normotensive (n = 11) subjects received 10 mg of the dopamine antagonist metoclopramide intravenously, upon which serum prolactin concentration increased 10-fold. No significant effect on platelet function in any group was observed during these interventions. Platelet phenol sulphotransferase may contribute to dopamine conjugation. However, the selected platelet parameters correlated only weakly with dopamine kinetics during the infusion. Neither dopamine nor a dopamine antagonist altered the selected platelet parameters, nor did these parameters influence the clearance of dopamine during a short-lasting pharmacological infusion. PMID- 2525807 TI - Sideways killing: the cytolysis of Fc receptor-bearing cells through bridging to cytolytic T lymphocytes by antibodies specific for the T-cell receptor-T3 complex. AB - Cytolytic T lymphocytes (CTL) cause cytolysis of foreign or virus-infected syngeneic cells when recognition of the target plus major histocompatibility complex (MHC) occurs via the T-cell receptor (TCR). The recognition event leads to intimate contact between the two cells and activation of the cytolytic effector. Activation and target cell lysis can also occur in the presence of antibodies to the TCR. This is accomplished by bridging the effector cell TCR to the target cell FcR by an anti-TCR monoclonal antibody (MoAb). Recent findings have placed the role of the FcR in this event in a questionable light. We confirm the importance of Fc gamma R by demonstrating that: (a) melanoma cells are killed by CTL clones in the presence of anti-TCR-CD3 antibodies only when the melanoma cells express the Fc gamma R on their surface; (b) native Ig, heat-aggregated Ig, or an Fc fragment from an antibody expressing the same isotype as the anti-TCR antibody can block the killing of high avidity Fc gamma RI-bearing cells mediated by anti-TCR antibody (F23.1); and (c) anti-Fc gamma R MoAb (2.4G2) and a truncated soluble Fc gamma RII molecule inhibit the killing of low-avidity Fc gamma RII-bearing cells mediated by anti-CD3 MoAb (145-2C11). Thus, we show that both high-avidity Fc gamma RI and low-avidity Fc gamma RII can mediate sideways killing depending upon the isotype of the anti-TCR antibody and the type of FcR present on the target cell surface. PMID- 2525808 TI - Effects of purified protein derivative (PPD)-activated syngeneic epidermal cells on a PPD-specific rat T-helper cell line. AB - An important question in local immune regulation in the skin is how keratinocytes at inflammatory sites can modify a local T-cell response to antigens introduced via the skin. In the present study we investigated the effects of rat epidermal cells obtained from the site of a tuberculin reaction, on the proliferative response of a syngeneic purified protein derivative (PPD)-specific CD4+ T-cell line. Epidermal cell suspensions from the tuberculin-reactive ears contained 23 37% cells expressing class II transplantation antigens as judged by immunocytochemistry compared with 2-3% in normal epidermis. When comparing the capacity of these two different epidermal cell populations to induce a PPD specific T-cell response in vitro, it was found that the PPD-reactive epidermal cells induced a lower T-cell response than did normal epidermal cells. This discrepancy cannot be explained by an infiltration of inflammatory cells into the epidermis of tuberculin-reactive ears. Our data indicate that epidermal cells modified during a delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction in vivo may suppress an antigen-specific T-cell proliferation. PMID- 2525809 TI - Specificity of gamma delta receptor-bearing cytotoxic T lymphocytes isolated from human peripheral blood. AB - T-cell receptor (TcR)-gamma delta-bearing lymphocytes were isolated from the peripheral blood of two healthy donors by immunomagnetic separation and subsequently cultured. The cell lines generated showed two distinct patterns of cytotoxicity. One TcR-gamma delta + cell line (HG.D) lysed K562 and U937 target cells, three TcR-gamma delta + cell lines lysed Daudi cells, and one TcR-gamma delta + cell line showed a shift from the former to the latter specificity during culture. Cold target inhibition experiments showed that the HG.D effector cells which were cytotoxic against U937 cells also lysed K562 cells. The cytotoxicity against Daudi cells was strongly inhibited by monoclonal antibodies (MoAb) against the CD3 complex, whereas the cytotoxicity of the HG.D cell line against K562 and U937 was unaffected by such antibodies. The cytotoxicity against Daudi cells was also strongly inhibited in the presence of anti-TcR-gamma delta MoAb. However, in two of the Daudi-specific cell lines, strong cytotoxicity against K562 cells was induced by anti-TcR-gamma delta MoAb. Anti-LFA-1 MoAb caused only a partial inhibition of cytotoxicity, while anti-CD2 and anti-TcR-alpha beta MoAb were found to have no effect. The results indicate that human gamma delta receptor-bearing T cells demonstrate a certain degree of target cell specificity, and that recognition of some target cells may be mediated through the TcR-gamma delta. PMID- 2525811 TI - [Health status as a criterion in evaluating the activities of therapeutic preventive institutions]. PMID- 2525810 TI - [Principles of specialized oncogynecologic services]. AB - It is pointed out that distinctive features of malignant neoplasms of the female genital system determine peculiarity of organization of medical care for patients with cancer of uterus, ovary and external genital organs. Violation of the basic principle, i.e., examination and treatment of oncogynecologic patients should be carried out only in specialized departments, mostly is the cause of the main defects of the above kind of medical care (late diagnosis, inadequate treatment). The number of oncogynecologic departments and their bed fund should be planned on the basis of malignant neoplasm morbidity rates among the female residents of the given territory. PMID- 2525813 TI - [Pregnancy and labor in adolescence]. AB - The results of the complex sociohygienic study characterizing the group of young primapara females and their infants as being at risk enabled one to attribute these groups to priority problems in the organization of medical care. PMID- 2525812 TI - [Complex evaluation of the work of physician-endoscopy specialists]. AB - The presented system of quantitative criteria for assessing hospital physicians' work is based on the results of comparative evaluation of actual labour activity along with the standard and mean indicators. Physician's work is assessed by three main factors: amount of work (intensity); complicacy; quality with further introduction of an integral indicator. Complex approach, relative simplicity of labour accounting, derivation of estimates and availability of objective (standard) limits enable one to use this system as the basis for improving labour management of both separate medical workers and health establishments as a whole. PMID- 2525815 TI - [Ways of improving emergency medical services at the stage of the reorganization of public health]. AB - In Leningrad the reduction of a number of specialized teams of emergency medical aid has been achieved due to their replacement by intensive care teams (ICT). The technique for calculating economic efficiency of the above measure is described. The list of cycles and their sequence during training and continuous education of ICT physicians is given. PMID- 2525814 TI - [Certification of teachers as one of the forms of establishing feedback between teachers and students at medical institutes]. PMID- 2525817 TI - Administrative response to issues of health-care worker safety and HIV exposure. AB - This last example raises the philosophical side of the cost question. The guarantee of a safe work environment is a goal. The efforts to achieve this goal are balanced with the mission of the hospital to provide medical care to those in need. The leadership of the hospital adjusts this balance through the endorsement of policies and through funding of programs. The HIV epidemic has raised ethical, social and financial questions that we are all working to answer. PMID- 2525816 TI - Low back pain and the post-laminectomy pain syndrome. AB - Back pain is one of the most common disorders seen in general practice. Patients with chronic low back pain form a large proportion of the work of any pain relief unit. The aetiology of low back pain and the post-laminectomy pain syndrome are briefly presented and treatment of the 'failed back surgery patient' and the patient with arachnoiditis are discussed. PMID- 2525818 TI - Workers' compensation and AIDS. Adaptation to new occupational diseases. PMID- 2525819 TI - Sidewinder retention sutures for closure of the abdominal wall. AB - Reported herein, a technique of sutures placement that avoids certain objections to the traditional style of retention sutures is described. It is particularly useful in patients undergoing repeated laparotomy and in patients whose wounds are closed in a layered manner and who are at high risk for dehiscence. PMID- 2525820 TI - Spontaneous subclavain vein thrombosis: a successful combined approach of local thrombolytic therapy followed by first rib resection. PMID- 2525821 TI - The effect of photodynamic therapy on tumor oxygenation. AB - Oxygen microelectrodes were used to measure tumor partial pressure of oxygen (PO2) before and after photodynamic therapy (PDT) in a rat transplantable subcutaneous chondrosarcoma. Before PDT there was a gradient of PO2 from the superficial layers of the tumor (PO2 = 46 +/- 6 mm Hg) toward the center of the tumor (PO2 = 10 +/- 1 mm Hg). Mean tumor PO2 (21 +/- 2 mm Hg) was significantly reduced to 3 +/- 1 mm Hg 1 hour after PDT, and this reduction in PO2 persisted 4 hours (8 +/- 2 mm Hg) and 24 hours (6 +/- 1 mm Hg) after PDT. The largest percentage decrease in PO2 occurred at a depth of only 50 microns into the tumor. Inasmuch as PDT has been shown to decrease blood flow, our data suggest that PDT actions on blood vessels in the peripheral areas of the tumor are of major importance for eliciting the tumor hypoxia that contributes to tumor necrosis after PDT. PMID- 2525822 TI - Detection and characterization of a 5HT1D serotonin receptor-GTP binding protein interaction in porcine and bovine brain. AB - Radioligand binding studies were performed to characterize serotonin 5HT1D binding sites in porcine and bovine brain. 3H-5HT binding, in the presence of 1 microM (+/-)pindolol (to block 5HT1A and 5HT1B receptors) and 100 nM mesulergine (to block 5HT1C receptors), was specific, saturable, and of high affinity. In porcine and bovine cortex and striatum the majority of 5HT1 sites (80%-90%) were of the 5HT1D subtype. In competition experiments 8-OH-DPAT, TFMPP, mesulergine, DOB, and ICS 205-930 had low affinity for 3H-5HT-labeled 5HT1D sites, indicating that the pharmacology of the 5HT1D site is distinct from previously identified 5HT1A, 5HT1B, 5HT1C, 5HT2, and 5HT3 sites. Guanyl nucleotides, GTPgammaS, and Gpp(NH)p, and divalent cations potently modulated the binding of 3H-5HT to 5HT1D sites in porcine and bovine striatum. Mg++ ions increased the number and affinity of 3H-5HT-labeled 5HT1D sites, while guanyl nucleotides decreased the number of 3H-5HT-labeled 5HT1D sites. These results demonstrate the presence of the 5HT1D receptors in porcine striatum and bovine cortex and provide direct demonstration that the radioligand binding assay for the 5HT1D receptor can monitor the interaction of this receptor with a GTP-binding protein. PMID- 2525823 TI - D1 receptor activation enhances sciatic nerve stimulation-induced inhibition of nigrostriatal dopamine neurons. AB - Nigrostriatal dopamine (NSDA) neurons have been hypothesized to play an important regulatory role in neostriatal sensorimotor integration. In order to provide further information on the nature of sensory modulation of NSDA cells, we have examined the pharmacology of the responsiveness of these neurons to peripheral nerve stimulation. The selective D1 dopamine receptor agonist SKF 38393 enhanced the normal inhibition of NSDA neurons produced by electrical stimulation of the sciatic nerve. The SKF 38393-induced enhancement, but not the basal stimulation induced inhibition itself, was blocked by prior hemitransection of the forebrain and was reversed by the selective D1 antagonist SCH 23390 but not by the selective D2 antagonist 1-sulpiride. SCH 23390 alone, however, exerted no effect on this inhibition. The selective D1 receptor agonist fenoldopam, which does not cross the blood-brain barrier, also failed to alter the response to sciatic nerve stimulation (i.v. administration). Thus, central D1 receptors (rostral to the midbrain) appear to be involved in a system which mediates phasic control over sensory modulation of NSDA neuronal activity. PMID- 2525824 TI - Short- and long-term survival of large neurons in the excitotoxic lesioned rat caudate nucleus: a light and electron microscopic study. AB - Large striatal neurons are spared in caudate tissue from postmortem brain of patients with Huntington's disease (HD) and in the rat caudate lesioned with excitotoxins at short postlesion intervals. In order to determine the survival of large neurons and other effects of excitotoxicity at longer postlesion intervals the rat caudate nucleus was examined 2, 7, and 30 weeks after intrastriatal injections of the excitotoxin, quinolinic acid. The caudate nucleus diminished in size progressively up to 30 weeks postlesion due to 1) shrinkage and compacting of the lesion zone and 2) reduction in area of intact caudate, apparently due to gradual loss of the remaining caudate neurons. In Nissl-stained sections of the lesion zone where total neuronal density was less than 5% of contralateral control, large neurons were present at all postlesion intervals, forming 38-58% of the remaining neurons. Unexpectedly, a fivefold reduction in the number of large neurons was observed between 2 and 30 weeks postlesion. Also, at 7 and 30 weeks postlesion most of the large neurons were confined to the peripheral region of the lesion. At all postlesion intervals, large neurons retained ultrastructural integrity and some synaptic inputs despite the severe disruption of the surrounding neuropil. Surrounding the lesion zone was a transition zone which exhibited a decrease in total neuronal density to 53-74% of control. In this region the density of large neurons was not diminished, and the proportion of large neurons was elevated in comparison to that of controls at all postlesion intervals. Findings suggest that following excitotoxic lesion of the caudate nucleus there are marked differences between short- and long-term postlesion intervals in the survival and distribution of large neurons. We speculate that an imbalance in the synaptic connections with other caudate neurons leads to the persistent loss of large neurons in the lesion zone at long postlesion intervals. A transition zone surrounding the lesion, where cell loss is less severe than in the lesion zone, exhibits features more characteristic of the neuropathology of HD. PMID- 2525825 TI - [Report Armenia. A nurses nightmare among the ruins]. PMID- 2525827 TI - Early development of the T cell subset responsible for delayed-type hypersensitivity after syngeneic bone marrow transplantation. PMID- 2525826 TI - Blood pressure and renal responses to synthetic rat atrial natriuretic factor in deoxycorticosterone acetate-salt hypertension. AB - To assess possible roles of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) in the regulation of blood pressure in deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA)-salt hypertensive rats, we performed two series of experiments. First, we studied acute hypotensive, and natriuretic and diuretic effects of ANF in pentobarbital-anesthetized DOCA-salt hypertensive rats and age-matched controls. A synthetic rat ANF was intravenously administered as a bolus at doses of 0.5, 2.5 and 5.0 micrograms/kg. In DOCA-salt rats, a significant decrease in mean arterial pressure was observed at a dose of 5.0 micrograms/kg, whereas at a dose of 2.5 micrograms/kg in control rats. On the other hand, the diuretic and natriuretic effects of ANF were observed at a dose of 2.5 micrograms/kg in DOCA-salt rats and 5.0 micrograms/kg in control rats. Second, we examined chronic effect of ANF on the development of hypertension in DOCA-salt rats. The DOCA-salt rats, given 1% NaCl solution for drinking, were continuously infused with ANF (15, 75 and 150 micrograms/kg/day) or vehicle (physiological saline) into the jugular vein by osmotic minipumps for up to 14 days. In DOCA-salt treated rats, ANF at doses of 75 and 150 micrograms/kg/day attenuated significantly the development of hypertension, although at a dose of 15 micrograms/kg/day did not. The hypotensive effect of ANF was sustained throughout the experimental period and the effect of ANF at a dose of 150 micrograms/kg/day was more prominent than that of this peptide at a dose of 75 micrograms/kg/day. ANF did not induce any significant changes in urine volume, fluid intake and urinary excretion of sodium and potassium in DOCA-salt rats when compared to those in vehicle-infused DOCA-salt rats. These results indicate that DOCA-salt rats are more sensitive to ANF in diuretic and natriuretic effects, and less sensitive to ANF in hypotensive effect compared to control rats. Moreover, it is suggested that ANF can affect the regulation of blood pressure by its vascular effect in the development of hypertension in DOCA-salt rats. PMID- 2525828 TI - Stability and immunosuppressive activity of deoxyspergualin in comparison with deoxymethylspergualin. PMID- 2525829 TI - [Mg2+ release from heart mitochondria in ischemia: is it the defense mechanism or damage?]. AB - It is established that at the early stage of total heart ischemia in rats (5-10 min) the oligomycin-sensitive ATPase activity of mitochondria measured in heart homogenates in the medium and containing no Mg2+ decreases considerably, whereas the activity of respiratory chain, the value of respiratory control and Mg2+ ATPase activity are practically unchanged. The hypothetic trigger mechanism is suggested for Mg2+ ejection from mitochondria under conditions of respiration cessation. It is supposed to be a defence reaction of cells aimed to prevent ATP hydrolysis by mitochondria under ischemia. PMID- 2525830 TI - A new approach to the noninvasive measurement of cardiac output using an annular array Doppler technique--I. Theoretical considerations and ultrasonic fields. AB - This paper describes the development of a Doppler flowmeter capable of measuring blood volume flow rate without the need to measure the vessel lumen area or beam vessel angle. It requires the production of a uniform wide ultrasound beam to encompass the whole vessel and thus to produce a Doppler spectrum which corresponds to all the flowing blood, and a narrow reference beam placed within the lumen to compensate for various unknown quantities, such as tissue attenuation. The general definition of volume flow rate is described and applied to a new flowmeter, which allows an absolute value of volume flow rate to be measured independently of vessel size, beam-vessel angle, and tissue attenuation. By electronically apodising an annular array transducer in transmission and reception, a uniform wide beam and a narrow reference reception beam are produced. Theory to predict these beam patterns is developed and a computer simulation is made. The ultrasonic fields obtained from an annular array transducer in water are compared with the theoretical fields. PMID- 2525831 TI - A new approach to the noninvasive measurement of cardiac output using an annular array Doppler technique--II. Practical implementation and results. AB - An experimental Doppler flowmeter system has been developed which can noninvasively measure blood flow volume rate in a vessel. It is based on the attenuation compensated technique and does not require knowledge of the vessel size or beam-vessel angle. In vitro results have shown that the measurement of volume flow rate is independent of vessel angle to within +/- 4%, and independent of vessel diameter to within +/- 5%. Flow rate linearity is better than +/- 3%. A good comparison has been obtained, in vivo, of aortic diameters measured by an imaging system and with this flowmeter; the r value was 0.98. The noninvasive measurement of cardiac output using this flowmeter has been compared with conventional dilution techniques in 54 patients, with a resulting correlation coefficient of r = 0.96. PMID- 2525832 TI - Coronary angioplasty: long-term survival compared with coronary bypass surgery. PMID- 2525833 TI - Coronary artery disease panel. PMID- 2525834 TI - A method for bronchoalveolar lavage in live pigs. AB - In order to isolate porcine alveolar macrophages and to quantitatively study the components of recovered lung fluid, a bronchoalveolar lavage technique in living pigs was developed. Lung lavage was performed after introducing a catheter through the mouth via the trachea in the diaphragmatical lobe. Thirty ml of phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) was introduced into the lung and the fluid was aspirated after one minute. Following this, another 15 ml of PBS was introduced into the lung and aspirated after one minute. The recovered volume of the second lavage averaged 15 ml (+/- 0.4 S.E.M.). Cells thus obtained from specific pathogen-free (SPF) pigs were composed of 98% macrophages. Lavage fluids from conventionally bred pigs contained 67% macrophages, 17% neutrophilic granulocytes and about 16% lymphocytes, demonstrated by their morphology and acid phosphatase activity. The viability of the recovered cells was over 98% in both SPF and conventionally bred pigs. The dilution of the aspirated lung liquid was determined by using methylene blue in the introduced fluid. The calculated dilution factor of the recovered lavage fluid was 0.58 (S.E.M. 0.02). No influence was noticed on the number or composition of cells nor on the dilution factor when lung lavage was done in SPF pigs twice a week during a four week period. The protein concentration in lavage fluid from SPF pigs was 142 (SD +/- 26) mcg/ml. In conventionally bred pigs, however, a wide variation (276 +/- 229 mcg/ml) in protein content was noted. Lavage fluid supernatant of some animals had a bactericidal effect on Haemophilus pleuropneumoniae strain 13261, whereas no bactericidal effect was noted in other lavage samples. PMID- 2525835 TI - [Roentgeno-endovascular dilatation of a stenosis of the common hepatic artery]. PMID- 2525836 TI - The B allele of the NS gene of avian influenza viruses, but not the A allele, attenuates a human influenza A virus for squirrel monkeys. AB - The nonstructural (NS) genes of avian influenza A viruses have been divided into two groups on the basis of nucleotide sequence homology, which we have referred to here as alleles A and B. We sequenced the NS genes of eight additional avian influenza A viruses in order to define the differences between these two alleles more thoroughly. Four of the viruses had NS gene sequences which resembled that of A/FPV/Rostock/34 and belonged to allele A while the other four viruses had NS gene sequences more similar to that of A/Duck/Alberta/76 and belonged to allele B. There was approximately 90% sequence homology within alleles and 72% homology between alleles. As previously reported the NS genes of human influenza A viruses belong to allele A. We constructed single gene avian-human reassortant influenza A viruses containing an allele A or B NS gene segment from an avian influenza A virus and all other genes from a human influenza A virus and tested these reassortants for their ability to grow in the respiratory tract of a nonhuman primate. Reassortants containing an avian NS gene segment of allele B were significantly restricted in growth in the respiratory tract of squirrel monkeys while reassortants with an allele A NS gene segment were not. The divergent evolution of the B NS allele in birds may have resulted in gene products which do not function optimally in cooperation with genes from a human virus in viral replication in primate respiratory epithelium. PMID- 2525837 TI - In vitro synthesis of infectious venezuelan equine encephalitis virus RNA from a cDNA clone: analysis of a viable deletion mutant. AB - A molecular clone of Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEE) was constructed from four cDNAs that were synthesized using the viral RNA genome as template. Together, these cDNAs are believed to represent all but the nine 5'-terminal nucleotides of the VEE genome sequence. A T7 promoter, followed by a single intervening G residue, and the exact 5'-terminus of VEE were added to the 5'-most clone using in vitro mutagenesis. Appropriate restriction fragments isolated from the cloned cDNAs were joined to form a candidate full-length VEE cDNA clone. RNA transcripts synthesized in vitro from the cDNA clone were able to initiate a productive infection in DEAE-dextran-treated chicken embryo fibroblasts (CEF). VEE antigens were demonstrated in RNA-transfected cells, and supernatants from transfected cultures contained infectious virus particles. The candidate full length cDNA clone lacked 102 nucleotides of the VEE genome sequence. The deletion, which also was present in the genomes of progeny virions derived from the clone, did not appear to affect growth in cultured CEF, baby hamster kidney cells, or Vero cells. The site of the deletion was mapped to the 3'-end of the nsP3 gene by comparison to other alphavirus sequences. In this region, the VEE genome sequence includes two tandem 102-nucleotide repeats which can be arranged in a stable stem and loop structure. The sequence remaining in the deleted clone retains one copy of the duplicated sequence and, in addition, faithfully preserves a portion of the predicted stem. PMID- 2525838 TI - Complete nucleotide sequence of wound tumor virus genomic segments encoding nonstructural polypeptides. AB - Sequence analysis of the genomic segments which encode the five wound tumor virus nonstructural polypeptides has been completed. The complete nucleotide sequence of segments S4 (2565 bp), S6 (1700 bp), S9 (1182 bp), and S10 (1172 bp) are presented in this report while the sequence of segment S12 (851 bp) has been described previously (T. Asamizu, D. Summers, M. B. Motika, J. V. Anzola, and D. L. Nuss, 1985, Virology 144, 398-409). Comparison of the only published sequence for another member of the genus Phytoreovirus, that of rice dwarf virus segment S10, with the combined available wound tumor virus sequence data revealed similarity with WTV segment S10: 54.9 and 30.6% at the nucleotide and amino acid level, respectively. Although wound tumor virus and rice dwarf virus differ in plant host range, tissue specificity, vector range, and disease symptom expression, the level of sequence similarity shared by the two segments suggests a common origin for these viruses. The potential use of a phytoreovirus sequence database for predicting functions of viral encoded gene products is considered. PMID- 2525839 TI - Evidence that Sindbis virus NSP2 is an autoprotease which processes the virus nonstructural polyprotein. AB - The four nonstructural proteins (nsP1-4) of Sindbis virus, a member of the Togaviridae family, are initially expressed from the 5' segment of the single stranded genomic (+)RNA as a polyprotein which is subsequently proteolytically processed. In attempts to identify the protease acting on this nonstructural polyprotein, we established a coupled in polyprotein, we established a coupled in vitro transcription-translation system which was able to faithfully process the major polyprotein when an mRNA encoding all four nonstructural proteins was used. A cDNA plasmid containing the entire Sindbis virus genome positioned immediately downstream of the phage SP6 polymerase promoter was cut with restriction endonucleases at sites located within the genes for the nonstructural proteins and mRNAs transcribed from these DNA fragments. The nsP1-2 and nsP2-3 cleavage sites are alanyl-alanine and both were susceptible to proteolysis in vitro only after all of nsp1 and nsP2 and 157 amino acids of nsP3 were translated. The nsP1 2 site was cleaved from a polyprotein that contained nsP1 and nsP2 and 59 amino acids of nsP3 but not from six polyproteins whose sequences terminated in the nsP2 gene. These data support our hypothesis that the nonstructural polyprotein is processed by a virus autoprotease and we propose that its active site is encoded within the nsP2 sequences. PMID- 2525840 TI - Newly synthesized dengue-2 virus nonstructural protein NS1 is a soluble protein but becomes partially hydrophobic and membrane-associated after dimerization. AB - In a previous paper (G. Winkler, V. B. Randolph, G. R. Cleaves, T. E. Ryan, and V. Stollar, 1988, Virology 162, 187-196) we showed that the newly synthesized dengue-2 virus nonstructural protein, NS1, exists briefly as a monomer and then undergoes dimerization. We demonstrate here that the dimerization of NS1 is associated with a change in hydrophobicity and sedimentability of this protein. Newly synthesized monomeric NS1 is a hydrophilic and water-soluble protein which cannot be pelleted at 75,000 g. After dimerization, however, NS1 showed increased hydrophobicity in a Triton X-114 phase partitioning system and was completely pelletable at 75,000 g; these findings are consistent with NS1 becoming membrane associated. In experiments in which infected cells were treated with tunicamycin it was shown that the glycosylation of NS1 was not required for either the dimerization or the membrane association. PMID- 2525842 TI - [Fighting for life]. PMID- 2525841 TI - Limitations to the expression of parvoviral nonstructural proteins may determine the extent of sensitization of EJ-ras-transformed rat cells to minute virus of mice. AB - The FR3T3 and NRK rat cell lines and their human EJ Ha-ras-1 oncogene-transformed derivatives, termed FREJ and NREJ, were compared for their susceptibility to the parvovirus MVMp. For a similar production of p21ras protein, FREJ clones are markedly sensitized to killing by MVMp, whereas the NREJ cells are not. Such a contrasting effect of ras transformation on the sensitivity of cells of different origins to MVMp can be traced back to their respective abilities to support the parvoviral life cycle. The FR3T3 line produces a substantial amount of viral DNA whose expression in the form of the nonstructural protein NS-1 is stimulated in its transformed derivatives. Conversely, NRK cells offer an early block to parvoviral DNA replication and expression that appears to persist in the ras transformed clones. Thus, at least two intracellular restrictions can protect normal rat cells against MVMp infection, and transformation by ras relieves one of them at the level of parvoviral gene expression. A fair correlation was also found between the degree of sensitivity of the various lines to MVMp-induced killing and their capacity to synthesize the nonstructural viral proteins, suggesting a possible role of parvoviral nonstructural proteins in cytotoxicity. PMID- 2525843 TI - [Effect of vincristine on Mg2+-ATPase activity of actomyosin-like protein from sarcoma-45 and actomyosin from rat skeletal muscle]. AB - Kinetic parameters of the inhibitory effect of vincristine on Mg2+ATPase activity containing in the actomyosin-like protein from rat sarcoma 45 and in actomyosin from rat skeletal muscle was studied. The alkaloid decreased the VM value for the reaction catalyzed by ATPase in presence of Mg2+ and EGTA and did not alter Km value for both contractile proteins. Inhibitory constants, calculated for the actomyosin from skeletal muscles and for the actomyosin-like protein from sarcoma 45, constituted 520 mcM and 250 mcM, respectively. Vincristine appears to inhibit Mg2+-ATPase containing in these contractile proteins studied by the non competitive type, simultaneously with lowering of the activating effect of actin on the myosin-derived ATPase. PMID- 2525844 TI - [Effect of nitrosodimethylamine at various concentrations on various enzymatic systems in rat kidney endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria depending on the duration of drug action]. AB - Dissimilar response of rat kidney microsomal and mitochondrial enzymes was observed after administration of nitrosodimethylamine at concentrations 0.1, 1.0 and 10.0 mg/L within 2, 5 and 10 months. Activity of the mitochondrial enzymes studied depended to a greater degree on concentration of the drug administered as compared with duration of its effect. At the same time, activity of the microsomal enzymes studied was increased depending on duration of nitroso-++ dimethylamine action administered at concentration of 0.1 mg/L, while it did not alter if concentration of the drug was increased from 1.0 to 10.0 mg/L within the all periods of examination. PMID- 2525845 TI - [The use of PALP-effect as an index of vitamin B6 supply]. AB - Various methods used for estimation of a body supplying with vitamin B6 as well as correspondence between the data obtained by means of these methods were studied. The factors affecting the values of conventional patterns of the vitamin requirements were also studied: PALP-effect and content of 4-pyridoxilic acid in urine. A necessity was shown in standardization of the methods for estimation of a body supplying with vitamin B6 with regard to these factors. PMID- 2525846 TI - [Long-term treatment of hypertension with a selective beta-1-blockader without sympathomimetic activity. II. Changes in the structure and function of the left ventricle]. AB - The effect of the 6 months long treatment with the Hungarian selective beta-1 blocker Betaloc (Metoprolol) on the structure and function of the left ventricle was studied in 30 hypertensive patients--II stage (with echocardiographically proved left ventricular hypertrophy) by means of simultaneous recording of M-type echocardiogram, ACG, PCG and ECG. The telediastolic thickness of the septum and the posterior wall and the left ventricular muscular mass decrease at the end of the 6-th month (p less than 0.0001). The telesystolic dimension and volume decrease (p less than 0.0001) in the 6-th month without changes in the telediastolic dimension and volume (p greater than 0.32). The shortening fraction and the ejection fraction increase (p less than 0.0001), Vcf increases insignificantly (p greater than 0.05). The isovolumetric relaxation shortens (p less than 0.0001), the active suction period lengthens (p less than 0.0001) as well as the fast filling period (p less than 0.0027). By controlling the arterial pressure and suppressing the sympathetic stimulation of the heart the prolonged Betaloc treatment leads to reversion of the hypertrophy and improves the left ventricular function. PMID- 2525847 TI - Loratadine: a nonsedating antihistamine with once-daily dosing. AB - Loratadine is an addition to the class of nonsedating antihistamines which includes terfenadine, astemizole, and acrivastine. Loratadine is chemically related to the tricyclic antidepressants. Animal data have shown that insignificant amounts of loratadine enter the brain, and it has a threefold greater affinity for peripheral as compared with central histamine 1-receptors. Loratadine has one main metabolite, descarbethoxyloratadine, which is four times more active than the parent drug. Loratadine reaches peak plasma concentration in 1-2 hours; the metabolite does so in 3-4 hours. Their respective elimination half lives are about 10 and 20 hours. Onset of action is within 1 hour and duration is at least 24 hours. Once-daily dosing is recommended. Generally, loratadine is as efficacious as existing antihistamines in relieving symptoms of allergic rhinitis, urticaria, and in suppressing wheal formation. Reports of sedation and other adverse reactions are no more frequent than found with placebo. Tachyphylaxis has not been noted in humans, and there is minimal potential for drug interactions based on animal data. Loratadine and terfenadine have comparable therapeutic applications. Both have shown minimal adverse effects, but loratadine has a quicker onset and longer duration of action. These two agents are useful for acute allergic reactions. In contrast, astemizole has an onset of action of several days and is most useful for prophylactic treatment of seasonal allergies. PMID- 2525848 TI - [Possibilities for purification of refuse seepage water by sand containing humic substances]. AB - Sands containing humic substances are proposed for protection of ground water from refuse tip seepage waters which containing heavy metals and organic polluting agents. Such sands are produced and spoiled southern of Leipzig during uncovering of brown coal. Humic acids have qualities such as ion-exchange materials, form hydrogen bondes and are able to form salts and complexes. Besides they can adsorb and include other substances. This properties qualify the humic acids in contact with the grained structure of the sand to interactions with heavy metal ions and organic pollution agents in water such as oils, phenols, surface-active agents and organic phosphorus compounds. The installation of sands containing humic substances on the base of the refuse tip gives chances to prevent the migration of heavy metal ions and organic pollution agents in seepage waters on principle. On the other hand it is possible to use sands containing humic substances for cleaning of seepage waters and recovering of anorganic and organic useful materials. First practical tests with an refuse tip seepage water from the district Erfurt confirm the cleaning effect and the recovering of heavy metals. PMID- 2525849 TI - [Impairment of the immune system by HIV infection]. AB - CD4 + T-helper lymphocytes are the main target cells in HIV infection. Since CD4 molecules are not restricted to T-cells but also found on monocytes, macrophages, follicular dendritic cells, Langerhans cells, and microglial brain cells, these cells might be affected, too, by HIV. HIV binds via the gp 120 envelope protein to the 67 KD CD4 membrane protein. Patients with HIV infection show distinct autoimmunological reactions against the cells of their immune system. Autoantibodies directed against CD4 cells seem to be responsible for the extent of the immune deficiency and are, therefore, of prognostic value. Aside from CD4+ cell depletion, the functional impairment of the T-cell system plays an important part in the progress of the disease. Patients with depressed gamma-interferon production after stimulation with antigens are at a risk for AIDS-related opportunistic infections. Polyclonal production of immunoglobulins and impaired stimulation of B-cells are characteristic for B-cell dysfunction. NK-cell dysfunction depends on reduced production of IL-2 and altered gamma-interferon production of T-cells infected with HIV. PMID- 2525850 TI - [Structuro-functional properties of staphylococci in patients with pyoderma]. AB - Electron-microscopic and ultra-cytochemical studies have shown the structural and functional features of pyoderma agents--staphylococci isolated from patients with acute and chronic pyoderma. The studies have revealed magnesium-activated ATPase and adenylate cyclase in these bacteria; the authors have tried to trace a correlation between these enzymes' activities and location and the disease pattern. This may help assess the bacterial population status and choose the drugs for purposeful pathogenetic therapy. PMID- 2525851 TI - [The Scientific Society of Dermatovenereologists in the system of increasing the qualifications of physicians]. AB - The authors analyze the contribution of the Scientific Society of Dermatologists and Venereologists to continuous education of physicians: discussion of pressing problems in clinical dermatology and venereology, organization of infectious diseases control, analysis of the research carried out by the Society's members. Special attention is paid to philosophic problems in biology and medicine. A positive effect of field sessions of the Society in the major towns of the region is emphasized; such sessions promote a wider acquaintance of the local physicians with the newest trends in this field. PMID- 2525852 TI - [The effect of occupational factors on immunologic indices in workers in the petroleum-refining industry]. AB - Examinations of 518 refinery workers have helped define the dermatologic morbidity structure. Immunologic examinations have been carried out in 82 workers. 70 of these have developed skin abnormalities (toxicoderma, eczema, itching, hyperkeratosis, vascular spots, abnormal pigmentation, etc.). The studies have revealed reduced levels of the cell-mediated immunity parameters: T lymphocytes, T-theophylline-sensitive lymphocytes, and decreased functional activities thereof); this has been parallelled by activation of the humoral immunity. PMID- 2525853 TI - [Some technical and instrumental references for gynecologic laparoscopy]. AB - Three short technical hints are given to make gynaecologic laparoscopy safer. PMID- 2525854 TI - [Ovariectomy by laparoscopy]. AB - The report deals with first experience and results of 15 patients who had been oophorectomized per laparoscopiam because of advanced breast cancer. The method applied of the "3-sling-technique", for which Roeder-slings and applicators for the slings are self-made, is considered as practicable and safe method for oophorectomy. However, it may be used for other laparoscopic operations, such as adhesiolysis, myomectomy as well as removal of parovarian cyst, too. PMID- 2525856 TI - [History of the control of epidemics in Grodno in the 19th century]. PMID- 2525855 TI - [Alcohol addiction: the role of oligopeptides in its central mechanisms]. PMID- 2525857 TI - Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist inhibits physiologic ovarian follicular loss in rats. AB - To study the effect of long-term use of GnRH agonists on the number and size distribution of ovarian follicles, two experiments were performed on adult female rats. Treatment was continued for 52 days in Experiment 1 and for 229 days in Experiment 2. Every sixteenth section from one ovary of each rat was examined using a light microscope attached to a BioQuant image analysis computer system. In Experiment 3, control and previously treated rats were mated with known male breeders and the number and normalcy of the offspring evaluated. The results indicate that in rats treated with GnRH agonist: 1) the total number of follicles, the number and percentage of follicles less than 35 microns in diameter were significantly higher than in the control group: 2) the number and percentage of follicles greater than 50 microns in diameter were significantly lower than control: and 3) the number of rats that got pregnant and the litter size were not significantly different from control. We conclude that GnRH agonists inhibit the physiologic process of follicle recruitment and loss and that fertility is preserved after long-treatment administration of GnRH agonists. PMID- 2525858 TI - Human antral fluid IGF-I and oocyte maturity: effect of stimulation therapy. AB - Studies in animals have highlighted a possible role for growth factors, particularly IGF-I on cellular replication and cytodifferentiation in the ovary. At this time, few studies have been performed about IGF-I in the human ovary. From 38 women undergoing in Vitro Fertilization 293 antral antral fluids were collected and assessed for steroids (estradiol and progesterone), FSH and IGF-I. Two induction treatments were compared: clomiphene citrate hMG (group A,N = 15), triptoreline/hMG (group B,N = 23). We also studied relationships between quantitative parameters and oocyte collection or oocyte corona cumulus complex maturity, In group B, the highest antral estradiol levels were found in follicles yielding an oocyte (p less than 0.05). Concerning antral progesterone, higher levels were observed in follicles collected from group A than follicles collected from group B (p less than 0.05): for this parameter, the highest levels were observed when an oocyte was harvested, whatever the treatment (p less than 0.05). Highest antral FSH levels were observed in group B (p less than 0.05). IGF-I levels were higher in follicles collected from group B than in follicles collected from group A (p less than 0.05) and antral IGF-I levels differed between mature and immature oocyte corona cumulus complex in group B (p less than 0.05). These results, which are in keeping with studies about biological action of IGF-I in animal or human follicles or granulosa cells, led us to hypothesize a role for IGF-I in human follicular recruitment and maturation, a role that possible is enhanced during GnRH analogue and gonadotropin therapy. PMID- 2525860 TI - An autopsy case of cholesterol embolism following percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty and aortography. AB - A 67-year-old woman with a 6-year history of angina pectoris underwent percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. Just after manipulation of the guiding catheter during a second attempt at angioplasty and aortography, the patient developed intestinal obstruction with peritonitis. Laparotomy was performed, and surgical specimens taken during surgery revealed necrosis and perforation of the small intestine. Microscopical examination proved that this was the result of multiple fresh cholesterol emboli in the arteries. Postoperatively, renal failure and sepsis developed, and the patient died 13 days after surgery. Autopsy revealed multiple cholesterol emboli in arteries of the intestine, spleen, pancreas, liver and kidneys. This case demonstrates that cholesterol embolism can be a serious complication of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. PMID- 2525859 TI - Inherited deficiency of functional and free form protein S. AB - We studied hemostatic function in a family with a history of venous thromboembolic disease. In the propositus, a 36-year-old male, the results of assays for the coagulation, anticoagulation and fibrinolytic factors were almost normal. However, the functional protein S activity in his plasma was less than 5% of normal. Similar laboratory findings were noted in his paternal uncle and two sisters who had recurrent thrombotic episodes and in his asymptomatic father as well. The mean total protein S antigen level in these five patients was 37% (range 19-66%) by conventional Laurell rocket immunoelectrophoresis. However, by crossed immunoelectrophoresis of their plasmas and Laurell rocket immunoelectrophoresis of the polyethyleneglycol 6000-treated plasmas, the free form of protein S was undetectable in their plasmas. The levels of C4b-binding protein in the plasma of three of the five patients were in normal range, and that those in the remaining two were below the normal level. These findings suggest that the recurrent thrombotic disease in this family is due to inherited deficiency of protein S, particularly of the functionally active free form of protein S. PMID- 2525861 TI - [The effectiveness of tetracycline in the treatment of rosacea associated with epithelioid granulomas]. AB - The results of the oxytetracycline therapy given orally to 26 patients with severe papulopustular rosacea are presented. The biopsies were taken at the most typical sites. In 19 out of 26 patients the pathological changes characteristic of papulopustular rosacea were found. In 7 out of 26 patients epitheloid granulomas without central caseation were histologically observed. In these 7 patients tuberculosis was excluded (the absence of other tuberculous stigmata, normal laboratory data). Tetracycline (oxytetracycline) was given orally to 26 patients. One month later, a remarkable clinical improvement could be seen, i.e. the papules and pustules disappeared in all 26 patients and the recurrence of the disease could not be noticed in any patient during a 2.5-year-observation period. As no signs of tuberculosis could be detected in these patients, the authors believe that rosaceiform changes with epitheloid granulomas should be systematized in rosacea as "rosacea-like eruptions". A good therapeutic response of "rosacea-like eruptions" to tetracyclines could possibly confirm the authors' hypothesis. PMID- 2525862 TI - Residual left ventricular function and prognosis of patients with asymmetric septal hypertrophy recovering from acute myocardial infarction. AB - The prognosis of patients recovering from acute myocardial infarction (MI) depends mainly on their residual left ventricular (LV) function. In patients with asymmetric septal hypertrophy (ASH) who are recovering from MI, a larger functioning myocardial mass may remain. However, the frequency of ASH in these patients has not yet been described. Predischarge echocardiography, radionuclide ventriculography, and treadmill stress tests were performed in 403 consecutive patients who had recovered from acute MI. Eighty-eight patients (22%) had ASH with septal thickness greater than or equal to 1.3, and 32 (8%) had septal thickness greater than or equal to 1.5 cm. One hundred thirty-six patients who had recovered from a first MI and had no ASH served as control subjects. Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in the group with ASH was significantly higher than in control subjects (61% vs 50%; p = 0.0001). LV end-diastolic diameter (LVD(d] and E point septal separation (EPSS) were smaller in the group with ASH (4.9 cm and 5.4 mm) than in the control group (5.5 cm and 10.5 mm). The frequency of positive treadmill test results, angina pectoris, recurrent MI, heart failure, and death during a 22-month follow-up period was similar in both groups. Fifty subjects in the control group were matched with 50 patients from the group with ASH on the basis of maximal level of creatine phosphokinase, location of infarct, and presence or absence of hypertension, and the difference between the two groups was even more marked (LVEF 48% vs 61%, respectively; p = 0.0004).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525863 TI - Prognostic significance of silent myocardial ischemia detected by early treadmill exercise after coronary angioplasty. AB - Three hundred ninety patients who had successful coronary angioplasty were studied by treadmill exercise testing to determine the incidence and prognostic importance of silent and symptomatic myocardial ischemia in this patient subset. All patients were followed for an average of 11 months. During exercise, 81 patients (20%) had abnormal exercise-induced ST-segment depression without chest pain (group 1). Twenty patients (5%) had chest pain without ST changes (group 2). Twenty-one patients (5%) had both exercise-induced chest pain and ST-T-segment depression (group 3) and 268 patients (70%) had a normal exercise test with no chest pain (group 4). The groups were similar with respect to age, sex, history of previous myocardial infarct and previous coronary bypass surgery. Group 4 included more patients with complete revascularization. Mutually exclusive cardiac events were defined as cardiac death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, class III angina and additional revascularization (coronary angioplasty, coronary artery bypass surgery). The cardiac event rate in groups 1, 2 and 3 were significantly higher than in group 4 (40, 45 and 43 vs 22%; p = 0.001). There were 4 cardiac deaths and 4 nonfatal myocardial infarctions in group 1 compared to 2 cardiac deaths and 3 nonfatal myocardial infarctions in group 4 (p = 0.03 and 0.05, respectively). The event rates in groups 1, 2 and 3 patients with multivessel disease were significantly greater than in group 4 (44, 60 and 47 vs 22%; p = 0.002). Thus, exercise-induced myocardial ischemic episodes, both symptomatic and silent, early after coronary angioplasty are predictive of an unfavorable prognosis and serious cardiac events, particularly in patients with multivessel disease and incomplete revascularization. PMID- 2525864 TI - Transluminal laser angioplasty of the femoropopliteal circulation by use of a percutaneous popliteal approach. PMID- 2525865 TI - Coronary artery thermal damage during percutaneous "hot tip" laser-assisted angioplasty. PMID- 2525866 TI - Usefulness of thallium-201 scintigraphy in predicting the development of angina pectoris in hypertensive patients with left ventricular hypertrophy. AB - Hypertension and left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy are independent risk factors for the development of coronary artery disease. To determine whether patients at higher risk for coronary artery disease can be identified, 40 asymptomatic hypertensive men with LV hypertrophy were prospectively studied using exercise thallium-201 scintigraphy and exercise radionuclide angiography. Endpoints indicative of coronary artery disease were defined as the subsequent development of typical angina pectoris, which occurred in 8 patients during a median follow up of 38 months, or myocardial infarction, which did not occur. The exercise electrocardiogram was interpreted by standard ST-segment criteria and by a computerized treadmill exercise score. Abnormal ST-segment responses were present in 16 of the 40 hypertensives (40%), whereas the treadmill score was positive in 8 of those same 40 patients (20%). Scintigraphic perfusion defects assessed both visually and semiquantitatively were observed in 8 of 40 (20%) patients. An abnormal ejection fraction response to exercise was present in 40% (16 of 40) of patients, and 3 of 40 (7.5%) developed new wall motion abnormalities during exercise. Six of 8 patients with either perfusion defects or abnormal treadmill score developed typical angina during follow-up. All 5 patients with concordant positive exercise scintigrams and treadmill score developed chest pain during follow-up and had coronary artery disease confirmed by coronary angiography. However, only 7 of 16 (44%) patients with positive ST changes or abnormal ejection fraction responses during exercise developed chest pain during follow up. In contrast, of 32 patients with negative scintigrams only 2 developed atypical chest pain syndromes, and significant coronary artery disease was excluded by angiography in 1 patient.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525867 TI - Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of a totally occluded venous bypass graft: a challenge that should be resisted. PMID- 2525868 TI - Left main coronary angioplasty: early and late results of 127 acute and elective procedures. AB - The results of 127 left main (LM) coronary angioplasties were reviewed to assess short- and long-term effectiveness. Three major subgroups were considered: (1) elective "protected" (defined as the presence of a patent bypass graft to the left coronary circulation) patients (n = 84); (2) elective "unprotected" patients (n = 33); and (3) acute patients, in whom LM coronary angioplasty was performed in the setting of an acute myocardial infarction (n = 10). Successful LM dilation was achieved in 94% of elective patients and 90% of acute patients. Procedural mortality was 4.3% in elective patients (2.4 and 9.1% in protected and unprotected patients, respectively, p = 0.14) and 50% in the acute subgroup. Long term follow-up data, available for 98% of patients, revealed actuarial 3-year survival rates of 90 and 36% in elective protected and unprotected subgroups, respectively (p less than 0.0005). In the acute subgroup, 3 patients (30%) were alive at the time of follow-up; all had undergone coronary artery bypass surgery. Thus, although elective angioplasty of an unprotected LM coronary artery is technically feasible, the long-term prognosis of such patients is very poor. LM angioplasty in this subgroup should be reserved for patients in whom surgical revascularization is not an option. In contrast, elective angioplasty of a protected LM coronary artery can be accomplished safely with good long-term results. LM coronary angioplasty for acute myocardial infarction can be effective as a salvage procedure; however, adjunctive coronary bypass surgery is important for long-term survival. PMID- 2525869 TI - Magnum wire for balloon recanalization of chronic total coronary occlusions. AB - A new guidewire (Magnum wire, Schneider) was developed for balloon recanalization of chronic total coronary occlusions. This 0.021-inch solid-steel wire with a floppy tip equipped with a 1-mm diameter "olive" is used like an ordinary guidewire, fits conventional balloon catheters and provides excellent steerability. Magnum wires were used in 50 consecutive chronic total coronary occlusions (mean +/- standard deviation duration 8 +/- 21 months, range 1 day to 10 years; mean length 1.1 +/- 0.8 cm, range 0.2 to 4.0). All occlusions were reached (in 23 right, 18 left anterior descending, 8 left circumflex coronary arteries and 1 diagonal branch) and 30 (60%) were recanalized (1 reoccluded during the procedure, and in 3 patients the Magnum wire did not completely cross the occlusion but enabled the previously impossible passage of a conventional wire). The mean age of the occlusion was 3 +/- 4 months in successful and 17 +/- 33 months in unsuccessful procedures (p = 0.04) and the mean length was 1.1 +/- 0.9 and 1.3 +/- 0.6 cm, respectively (p = 0.4). In 17 patients, conventional techniques had been exhausted before the Magnum wire attempt, which was successful in 8 (47%). In 33 patients the Magnum wire was tried first, with success in 22 (67%). Conventional techniques were subsequently tried in 9 of the 11 failures (none was successful). Of the 38 procedures carried out with a second, improved version of the Magnum wire, 26 (68%) were successful.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525871 TI - Role of anemia in the pathogenesis of left ventricular hypertrophy in end-stage renal disease. AB - Left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy is common in end-stage renal disease, yet the factors associated with its development are poorly understood. LV mass index was determined by echocardiography in 78 patients who had been treated by dialysis for at least 3 months. A significant relation was evident between anemia and LV hypertrophy. The mean LV mass index was 158 +/- 6 g/m2 (mean +/- standard error) in patients in the lowest quartile of serum hemoglobin and 140 +/- 10, 132 +/- 7 and 120 +/- 8 g/m2 in the second, third and uppermost quartiles, respectively (p = 0.005). This relation persisted after adjusting for systolic blood pressure, treatment mode and suspected coronary artery disease. Forty-eight patients had paired studies. In these, LV mass index increased as hemoglobin decreased (coefficient = -0.81 g/m2/g/liter, p less than 0.025). These data indicate that anemia contributes to the development of LV hypertrophy in patients with end stage renal disease. PMID- 2525870 TI - Effectiveness of doxazosin in systemic hypertension. AB - Most alpha-receptor blocking drugs require divided daily administration because of a short plasma half-life. This multicenter study examined the effectiveness and safety of once-daily administration with doxazosin, a quinazoline analog alpha 1-receptor blocking drug with a plasma half-life of 19 hours. Patients with diastolic blood pressure (BP) of 90 to 115 mm Hg entered 4 weeks of single-blind placebo therapy and then were randomized to double-blind treatment with doxazosin (63 patients) or placebo (67 patients). After 10 weeks of titration, standing arterial BP was lowered by 14/11 mm Hg with doxazosin and by 0.5/0.9 mm Hg with placebo (p less than 0.001). Measured hourly for 12 hours after the dose, all standing and supine arterial BP values were significantly lower in the doxazosin group at each hour. Pulse rate increased slightly in both groups int he double blind phase, but the increase with doxazosin never significantly exceeded that of placebo. Dizziness was the most common complaint with doxazosin, but syncope did not occur. Side effects were mild and transient and did not necessitate withdrawing any participants from the study. Body weight increased by 1.5 kg in the doxazosin group and decreased by 0.2 kg in the placebo group (p less than 0.01). Safe and effective in once-daily administration, doxazosin is suitable for initial therapy in mild and moderate hypertension. PMID- 2525872 TI - Increase in plasma atrial natriuretic factor during ventriculoatrial pacing. PMID- 2525874 TI - The paradigm of Huntington disease. AB - I recall it as vividly as though it had occurred but yesterday. It made a most enduring impression upon my boyish mind which was my very first impulse to choosing chorea as my virgin contribution to medical lore. Driving with my father through a wooded road leading from East Hampton to Amagansett we suddenly came upon two women, mother and daughter, both tall and thin, almost cadaverous, both bowing, twisting, grimacing. I stared in wonderment, almost in fear. What could it mean? My father paused to speak with them and we passed on. Then my Gamaliel like instruction began; my medical education had its inception. From this point on, my interest in the disease has never wholly ceased. [George Huntington, at 59, recalling how at the age of 8 years he first saw Huntington disease while traveling with his physician father on his professional rounds in 1858]. PMID- 2525873 TI - Interstitial deletion of chromosome 5, del(5q), in a newborn with Down syndrome and an unusual hematologic disorder. AB - A newborn with Down syndrome was noted on the 1st day of life to have an elevated white blood cell count of 79,900/mm3 with 62% lymphoblasts and a platelet count of 61,000/mm3, consistent with either transient myeloproliferative disorder of Down syndrome (TMD) or acute leukemia. Karyotype analysis of a bone marrow aspirate revealed that 20% of the cells had a 47,XY, +21 karyotype, and 80% had a 47,XY, +21, del(5)(q13q31) complement. Cytochemical and immunophenotyping of the peripheral blasts were consistent with the presence of an acute undifferentiated precursor blast clone. Results of clonogenic assays of hematopoietic progenitors from this patient's bone marrow were similar to those of patients with TMD. This patient's hematologic abnormalities resolved spontaneously without treatment by week 10 of life. This is the first report of an interstitial deletion of 5q associated with a hematologic abnormality present in an infant at birth. PMID- 2525875 TI - Dermatoses among poultry slaughterhouse workers. AB - A survey on the incidence of occupational dermatoses among poultry slaughterhouse workers, who, in order to do their work more efficiently, protected their hands only with cotton gloves, revealed that many workers had dermatoses of the hands. Their symptoms included maceration, erosio interdigitalis, paronychia, trichophytia unguium, and eczema, presumably caused by the constant wetness of their hands during work. Candida albicans was detected in the ungual lesions of some patients. A second survey including a skin examination was performed at a plant where preventive measures such as better working gloves and improved sanitary conditions had been implemented because of the high incidence of skin disorders. The results of this survey showed marked improvement in the reduction of the incidence of dermatoses. PMID- 2525876 TI - Adverse reactions to griseofulvin in patients with circulating anti-SSA/Ro and SSB/La autoantibodies. PMID- 2525877 TI - Cardiac performance after reduction of myocardial hypertrophy. AB - PURPOSE: The current study was performed to assess the functional sequelae of reducing left ventricular hypertrophy in patients with essential hypertension. PATIENTS AND METHODS: To analyze left ventricular function and contractility in patients with essential hypertension after reduction of left ventricular hypertrophy, 14 patients with essential hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy were studied prospectively by echocardiogram (1) before, (2) during, and (3) after left ventricular mass had been reduced by antihypertensive therapy of 19 +/- 3 months' duration. All drugs were discontinued four weeks before the first and the third study. RESULTS: At the time of the third study, arterial pressure had returned to pretreatment values, and mean, peak, and isovolumetric (but not end-systolic) wall stress increased, whereas left ventricular mass remained diminished. Despite the increased pressure load to the heart, myocardial contractility was maintained or improved after reduction of left ventricular hypertrophy, as indicated by the ratio of end-systolic wall stress to end systolic volume index (p less than 0.02) and by the relation of fractional shortening to end-systolic wall stress (p less than 0.06). End-diastolic volume, an indicator of preload, remained reduced after therapy (p less than 0.05). As a result, pump function of the left ventricle improved as shown by an increase in the ejection fraction (p less than 0.05), fractional fiber shortening (p less than 0.05), and velocity of circumferential fiber shortening (p less than 0.01). CONCLUSION: Thus, in patients with essential hypertension, reduction of myocardial hypertrophy by antihypertensive therapy appears to be beneficial rather than detrimental to cardiac pump performance. PMID- 2525878 TI - Relationship between plasma ANF responsiveness and renal sodium handling in cirrhotic humans. AB - The responsiveness of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) to central volume expansion and its role as a determinant of the natriuretic and diuretic responses of cirrhotic patients was evaluated utilizing water immersion (WI). Following equilibration on a 10-mEq sodium diet, 9 seated cirrhotic patients were studied during 3 h of WI. Before WI, plasma ANF levels (10.9 +/- 2.4 fmol/ml) were similar to those previously observed in normal sodium-replete subjects (7.7 +/- 0.9 fmol/ml). Five of the 9 cirrhotic subjects manifested an exaggerated peak ANF response, whereas the remaining 4 manifested increases similar to those of normals. The concomitant natriuretic response varied widely, ranging from absent to markedly exaggerated responses. The peak urinary sodium excretion varied independently of peak plasma levels of ANF and peak change of ANF from the prestudy hour (r = 0.36, p greater than 0.20, and r = 0.46, p greater than 0.20, respectively). Thus, in contrast to normal subjects, in whom the immersion induced natriuresis correlated closely with the changes in ANF, the natriuretic responses of cirrhotic patients were dissociated from the concomitant increases in ANF. These observations indicate that sodium retention in cirrhosis is not attributable to impaired ANF release. PMID- 2525879 TI - Recurrent essential mixed cryoglobulinemia in renal allografts. Report of two cases and review of the literature. AB - This report describes two patients in whom essential IgG-IgM mixed cryoglobulinemia (EMC) glomerulonephritis led to end-stage renal disease. Both patients underwent primary hemodialysis, and during the period of uremia clinical and biological manifestations of the disease fully resolved. Transplantation was performed, and in both cases cryoglobulinemia quickly recurred (30 days and 6 months after transplantation, respectively) with clinical renal and extrarenal flare, and reappearance of the biological markers of the disease (decrease in C3 and C4 components of serum complement, detection of rheumatoid activity and of cryoglobulinemia in the serum). The literature on EMC glomerulonephritis leading to end-stage renal disease is reviewed. Factors that may have contributed to extinguishing the disease and to further recurrence following transplantation consequences of uremic state, alloimmunization and intercurrent infectious disease-are discussed. PMID- 2525880 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor in patients with liver disease. PMID- 2525881 TI - Postoperative pain after laparoscopic sterilisation. PMID- 2525883 TI - Large scale preparation of bacteriophage lambda by tangential flow ultrafiltration for isolation of lambda DNA. AB - A preparative procedure for purifying bacteriophage lambda from large volumes of phage lysates by recirculating tangential flow ultrafiltration is described. Lambda DNA, isolated by deproteinization of the phage, is suitable for use in molecular biology. PMID- 2525882 TI - An optimized procedure for sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis analysis of hydrophobic peptides from an integral membrane protein. AB - A procedure for successful analysis of the hydrophobic tryptic peptides of the Neurospora crassa plasma membrane H+-ATPase by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) is described. The features of this procedure that are essential for the best results include (i) treatment of the hydrophobic peptide samples with neat trifluoroacetic acid, (ii) dissolution and disaggregation of the hydrophobic peptide samples with SDS at 0 degrees C, (iii) SDS-PAGE of the hydrophobic peptide samples in gels containing a 200:1 ratio of acrylamide to bisacrylamide and a 5-20% convex acrylamide gradient, and (iv) silver-staining of the gels after electrophoresis. This method results in the reproducible resolution and visualization of the H+-ATPase hydrophobic tryptic peptides, which range in size from ca. 5 to 21 kDa, as well as other peptides and proteins ranging in size from ca. 2.5 to 150 kDa. The methods described should also prove useful in other studies where resolution and visualization of hydrophobic peptides of integral membrane proteins are required. PMID- 2525885 TI - Imprecise fentanyl and sufentanil labels. PMID- 2525884 TI - A chromogenic assay for the detection of plasmin generated by plasminogen activator immobilized on nitrocellulose using a para-nitroanilide synthetic peptide substrate. AB - A direct solid phase chromogenic assay has been developed for the detection of plasmin (EC 3.4.21.7), generated by the interaction of a nitrocellulose-bound plasminogen activator, using the plasmin specific tripeptide substrate, H-D-valyl leucyl-lysine - p-nitroaniline. para-Nitroaniline released by the cleavage of the lysine - p-nitroaniline bound by plasmin was derivatized to its diazonium salt and subsequently coupled to N-1-napthylethylenediamine in situ to form a diazoamino of an intense red color at the site of the plasminogen activator. This method was used to assay for the streptococcal plasminogen activator, streptokinase, not only in crude bacterial supernatants, but also to detect streptokinase secreted by individual bacterial colonies. In addition, this solid phase assay was used to identify monoclonal antibodies specific for streptokinase which could inhibit the activation of human plasminogen by streptokinase. This method also permitted simultaneous immunological and biochemical identification of the plasminogen activator, thus permitting unequivocal comparative observations. This assay is quantitative and sensitive to nanogram amounts of activator comparable to those obtained with soluble assays. This method may also be applicable for the detection of other plasminogen activators, such as tissue plasminogen activator, urokinase, and staphylokinase, and also for the detection of immobilized proteases which can cleave other substrates derivatized with p nitroaniline. The reagents used in this assay are inexpensive and easy to prepare. PMID- 2525886 TI - Comparison of tracheal intubating conditions and neuromuscular blocking profiles after intubating doses of mivacurium chloride or succinylcholine in surgical outpatients. AB - Thirty ASA physical status I or II outpatients scheduled to undergo short procedures (less than 1 hr in duration) requiring tracheal intubation received either 1.0 mg/kg succinylcholine or 0.20 mg/kg (2.5 x ED95) or 0.25 mg/kg (3 x ED95) mivacurium. A N2O/O2/narcotic anesthetic technique was utilized and the ulnar nerve was stimulated with subcutaneous electrodes placed at the wrist. Tracheal intubation was attempted in all patients either 2 min after mivacurium or 1 min after succinylcholine. Intubation conditions were not different between the succinylcholine and mivacurium groups or between the two mivacurium groups. The onset and duration of neuromuscular blockade were shorter with succinylcholine than with mivacurium. Suppression of the T1 response to 90% of baseline occurred in 0.9 min with 1.0 mg/kg succinylcholine and at 2.2 and 1.5 min respectively, with 0.20 mg/kg and 0.25 mg/kg mivacurium. Initial recovery of the T1 response occurred at 6.4 min after 1.0 mg/kg succinylcholine and 12.7 and 13.6 min respectively after 0.20 mg/kg and 0.25 mg/kg mivacurium. Subsequent to initial recovery from the intubating dose of relaxant, infusions of mivacurium or succinylcholine were administered to maintain approximately 95% block. The mean infusion rates were 6.6 micrograms.kg-1.min-1 mivacurium and 41.2 micrograms.kg 1.min-1 for succinylcholine. Spontaneous recovery from neuromuscular blockade occurred more quickly after succinylcholine than after mivacurium: the time from cessation of infusion to recovery of T1 to 95% of baseline was 6.5 min in patients given succinylcholine and 16.7 min in patients given mivacurium. When reversal was in order, residual mivacurium-induced blockade was readily antagonized by 0.045 mg/kg neostigmine.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525887 TI - Back pain following epidurally administered Nesacaine-MPF. PMID- 2525888 TI - The IgE system. AB - The data presented herein indicate that IgE synthesis results from a complex interaction between T cells, B cells, and monocytes, under the control of T cell derived and monocyte-derived lymphokines (IL-4, IL-5, and IL-6). In addition to their direct effects on IgE synthesis, these lymphokines have other functions, many of which are related to IgE. IL-4 is not only a crucial signal for the induction of IgE synthesis, but also a growth factor for murine mast cells together with IL-3, a product of the same T cell clones. Furthermore, IL-4 is a potent inducer of Fc epsilon R2b expression on both B cells and monocytes. On the other hand, IL-4-secreting T cells also produce IL-5, which promotes B cell maturation and induces differentiation of eosinophil precursors. Eosinophils, in turn, express CD23 when activated; thus, the activation of the IgE system leads to increased IgE synthesis and to enhanced expression of Fc epsilon R1 (on mast cells) and Fc epsilon R2 (on B cells, monocytes, and eosinophils). This in turn results in increased receptor-ligand interactions, with release of different chemical mediators involved in the pathogenesis of allergy. Such considerations suggest that the regulation of IgE synthesis should be viewed in the wider context of the IgE system, a multi-component network in which different cell types are functionally integrated mainly through lymphokine-mediated signals.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525889 TI - Carcinoid tumor of the ileum with perforation and infiltration of the abdominal wall. AB - The carcinoid tumor presented was noteworthy in several respects. It attained a large size within the space of only two months and was so extensive that it penetrated the abdominal wall. Despite its great size there were no liver metastases, and at no time did the patient exhibit any of the signs or symptoms of the carcinoid syndrome. PMID- 2525890 TI - [Osteoid osteoma as a cause of back pain of vertebral origin]. PMID- 2525891 TI - Review of the uses of digital "road map" techniques in interventional radiology. AB - The "road map" technique, an outgrowth of digital subtraction arteriography, is a little-appreciated but most helpful technique in performing numerous interventional angiographic and non-angiographic procedures. PMID- 2525892 TI - PTA of the subclavian and innominate artery: short- and long-term results. AB - Twelve patients with brachial ischemia and/or subclavian steal syndrome underwent PTA of the subclavian, innominate and axillary artery. One technical failure occurred in a patient with a high grade stenosis of the subclavian artery. All other patients were successfully dilated. On long-term follow-up (mean: 12 months) only one patient had a recurrent stenosis which was successfully recanalized by PTA. This patient is asymptomatic since 12 months. The only severe complication was a transient amaurosis which occurred during catheterization. Balloon angioplasty was, therefore, not performed. In summary, PTA is an effective therapy for patients with brachial ischemia and/or subclavian steal syndrome. The long- and short-term results compare favorably with results obtained by surgery. PMID- 2525893 TI - [Treatment of urethral stenosis using Olbert's balloon dilatation angioplasty. Re evaluation of the results]. AB - Twenty-eight patients with an urethral stricture underwent Olbert's angioplasty balloon dilatation under local anaesthesia and fluoroscopic control. Four dilatations failed. Six were performed palliatively after failure of classical urethral catheterisation. Sixteen dilatations were performed curatively: thirteen patients developed a recurrent stricture after periods of between 3 days and 12 months. Three patients were cured. Our results suggest that angioplasty balloon dilatation is ineffective as a curative procedure and should be reserved for inoperable patients requiring and indwelling catheter, in whom classical catheterisation has failed. PMID- 2525894 TI - Acne in an irradiated area. PMID- 2525895 TI - Prior x-ray therapy for acne related to tumors of the parotid gland. AB - Findings from this population-based study in Los Angeles County, California, suggest that recently diagnosed tumors of the parotid gland are related to prior x-ray therapy for acne (relative risk = 2.6; 95% confidence interval = 1.07, 6.34). Responses to interviews with 408 patients with a parotid tumor were compared with responses of 408 neighborhood controls. Risk increased with an increase in the number of acne treatments, and the relative risk for 15 or more treatments was 8.0. Clinicians who are still using this form of therapy, as well as those clinicians who care for patients who received this treatment, should be aware of this additional risk associated with its use. PMID- 2525896 TI - Wrinkling due to middermal elastolysis. Report of a case and review of the literature. AB - We describe a 33-year-old woman with idiopathic loss of middermal elastic tissue, resulting in widespread fine wrinkling of the skin. This represents an example of the rarely reported entity middermal elastolysis. The literature is reviewed. PMID- 2525897 TI - Comparative effects of transdermal clonidine and oral atenolol on acute exercise performance and response to aerobic conditioning in subjects with hypertension. AB - We compared the effects of transdermal clonidine and oral atenolol on acute exercise performance and on conditioning response to an 8-week program of regular aerobic exercise in young, otherwise healthy subjects with mild hypertension. The study was a double-blind, randomized, parallel-group study with placebo control. Twenty-seven subjects (11 receiving transdermal clonidine, 8 receiving oral atenolol, and 8 receiving placebo) completed the study. Atenolol controlled blood pressure in all 8 subjects, vs 6 of 11 in the transdermal clonidine group and 0 of 8 in the placebo group. Both active drugs lowered systolic blood pressure during exercise. With clonidine treatment, the antihypertensive effect during exercise was smaller and was observed only at low and moderate workloads. Acute exercise performance (subjects receiving drug but still unconditioned) was assessed by endurance time at a constant workload equal to the highest workload completed on a previous 2-minute incremental exercise test. Endurance time was reduced 35% by atenolol but not by transdermal clonidine or placebo. Neither active drug interfered with the progress of the conditioning program, as measured by gradual lengthening of exercise time. However, as assessed by change in oxygen uptake standardized to a heart rate of 170 beats per minute, the improvement in conditioning was twice as great in subjects receiving transdermal clonidine and placebo (+20%, +18%) as it was in those receiving atenolol (+8%). Subjects receiving placebo and transdermal clonidine lost weight; subjects receiving oral atenolol gained weight. The changes in weight were small. PMID- 2525898 TI - Nonemergent cardiac catheterization and risk-stratified revascularization following thrombolytic therapy for acute myocardial infarction. A critical analysis of therapy in the community setting. University of North Carolina Cardiology Consortium. AB - We evaluated a strategy for administering thrombolytic therapy without emergent cardiac catheterization to patients with acute myocardial infarction in community hospitals. Fifty-nine patients were treated with intravenous streptokinase and heparin, and referred for elective catheterization. Angioplasty or bypass surgery was performed only in patients judged to be at risk for reinfarction. One or more predetermined criteria for infarct segment viability were present in 47 (80%) of 59 patients. Angina recurred in 24 patients and enzyme-positive reinfarction in 9 patients, but only 2 patients developed new Q waves or a creatine kinase rise to over twice the normal value. Of 18 patients judged to be at low risk for reinfarction, only 1 required urgent angioplasty or bypass surgery. Fourteen-day mortality was 7% and infarct vessel patency was 94%. These data indicate that physicians in small community hospitals with a close relationship to a referral center and with a carefully designed protocol can administer thrombolytic therapy safely and effectively. By subsequent stratification of patients according to the risk of recurrent infarction, 22% of patients eligible for revascularization were spared urgent angioplasty or bypass surgery. PMID- 2525900 TI - Hormone implants. PMID- 2525899 TI - [Early angioplasty in unstable angina. Results apropos of 60 consecutive patients]. AB - Transluminal coronary angioplasty (TCA) is an attractive means of suppressing ischaemia in patients (pts) with unstable angina. Sixty consecutive pts underwent TCA 6 +/- 2.5 days on average after their admission. Only the ischaemic vessel was dilated (mean stenosis 79 p. 100). Primary success was obtained in 53 pts (88 p. 100) with 31 p. 100 of residual stenosis after TCA. Two pts underwent emergency surgery for extensive dissection; failure of traversing the stenotic segment occurred in 2 pts; 3 pts had myocardial infarction (MI) less than 1 h after TCA, 2 arteries have been recanalized by intracoronary streptokinase with persistence of a satisfactory result of TCA, the 3rd patient had occlusion of a secondary side branch. During their stay in hospital, 2 pts had coronary bypass for recurrent angina. After a follow-up period of 6 to 16 months (mean 10 months) early recurrence of angina was observed in a number of cases (before the sixth month in 7 pts). One pt developed MI during the fourth month. At six month, 10 or the initial 60 pts had undergone coronary bypass, 1 undilated pt was asymptomatic; out of 49 dilated pts (47 with one single TCA), 39 were symptom free but 6 had a positive exercise test, 7 pts were in class II and one in class IV. At control coronary arteriography (46 pts) restenosis was present in 39 p. 100: 5 new TCA and 2 aorto-coronary bypasses were performed. At one year 28 pts had been followed up: 1 was in class IV and 1 in class II, the others being asymptomatic.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525902 TI - Functions of the COOH-terminal region of cyclodextrin glucanotransferase of alkalophilic Bacillus sp. #1011: relation to catalyzing activity and pH stability. AB - Cyclodextrin glucanotransferase (beta-CGTase) of alkalophilic Bacillus sp. #1011 degrades starch to mainly beta-cyclodextrin (beta-CD). This enzyme is considered to contain an extra-polypeptide in its COOH-terminal region in addition to its NH2-terminal domain which exhibits the starch-degrading activity. To analyze the functions of this extra-polypeptide in the beta-CGTase, two mutated enzymes, in which DNA regions encoding 10 or 13 amino acids from the COOH-terminus were deleted, were obtained. The mutated enzymes degraded starch to glucose, maltooligosaccharides and alpha-CD, in addition to beta-CD. Furthermore, the pH stability of the mutated enzymes in the alkaline pH range (pH 9-11) was reduced. PMID- 2525901 TI - Dexamethasone blocks adaptive increase of Na+-Pi cotransport in renal brush border membrane elicited by thyroid hormone. AB - Dexamethasone administered to rats blocks and/or reverses adaptive increases in the rate of Na+-Pi cotransport, and also in the Na+-dependent binding of [14C] phosphonoformic acid (PFA) by renal brush border membrane (BBM) vesicles elicited by thyroid hormone (T3). In contrast, dexamethasone had no effect on Na+ independent binding of [14C]-phosphonoformic acid, on Na+-dependent transport of D-glucose or on Na+-dependent binding of phlorizin by BBMV which indicates that its inhibitory effect is specific for Na+-Pi cotransport system of BBM. These findings suggest that glucocorticoids antagonize T3-elicited adaptive enhancement of Na+-Pi cotransport in renal proximal tubules by blocking the T3-stimulated de novo synthesis of Na+-Pi symporters and/or their insertion into BBM. PMID- 2525903 TI - The response time of transcription and translation of the leu-2 gene of Neurospora to its inducer, alpha-isopropylmalate, approaches the permissible minimum. AB - The rate of transcription and translation of the leu-2 gene of Neurospora crassa was measured after induction by alpha-isopropylmalate. Little message of enzyme was found before inducer addition but transcription in the lower eukaryote was found well underway within five minutes after inducer addition, followed in a minute or two by the appearance of functional enzyme. The timing was close to the limit set by RNA synthesis and ribosome procession. As a consequence, it seems unlikely that traversal of the cell and/or nuclear membranes by the inducer and message involves intermediate synthetic reactions and that the leu-3 positive regulatory element is fully available for participation in the induction process before the inducer is added. A significant overshoot in message synthesis was found early in the induction process. This is discussed with respect to previously observed effects of the inducer on general RNA synthesis. PMID- 2525904 TI - Endothelin, a novel endothelium-derived peptide. Pharmacological activities, regulation and possible roles in cardiovascular control. PMID- 2525905 TI - Enhancing effect of bromovinyldeoxyuridine on antitumor activity of 5'-deoxy-5 fluorouridine against adenocarcinoma 755 in mice. Correlation with pharmacokinetics of plasma 5-fluorouracil levels. AB - 5'-Deoxy-5-fluorouridine (DFUR), whether or not combined with (E)-5-(2 bromovinyl)-2'-deoxyuridine (BVDU) was pursued in BDF1 mice from both a pharmacokinetic viewpoint, following a single oral dose administration, and an anticancer viewpoint, following 5 daily oral doses in mice inoculated subcutaneously with adenocarcinoma 755 tumor cells. Half-life (t1/2) values for the elimination of DFUR and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) from plasma following DFUR (100 mg/kg) administration were about 0.80 and 0.39 hr, respectively. Plasma 5-FU AUC (area under the curve) values following oral DFUR (100 mg/kg) was 0.224 micrograms.hr/ml. If DFUR (100 mg/kg) was combined with BVDU (10 mg/kg) the t1/2 and AUC values for 5-FU increased from 0.39 to 1.24 hr, and from 0.224 to 1.699 micrograms.hr/ml, respectively. Thus, BVDU significantly increased the plasma levels of 5-FU. It had no effect on the plasma levels of DFUR. At 100 mg/kg, DFUR did not show a significant antitumor activity. At 500 mg/kg it effected a 90% inhibition in tumor growth. When combined with BVDU (10 mg/kg), DFUR at 100, 200 and 300 mg/kg reduced tumor growth by 96, 100 and 100%, respectively. The antitumor activity achieved by DFUR, in the presence or absence of BVDU, correlated highly significantly with the AUC values for plasma 5-FU. PMID- 2525906 TI - Characterization of platelet thromboxane A2/prostaglandin H2 receptor by a novel thromboxane receptor antagonist, [3H]S-145. AB - The specific binding sites for S-145, a novel thromboxane A2/prostaglandin H2 (TXA2/PGH2) receptor antagonist with weak partial agonistic activity, were studied in human platelet membranes. [3H]S-145 displayed high affinity and specificity, as well as saturable and displaceable binding, to a single class of recognition sites with the same maximum number of sites (2100 fmol/mg protein) as the other two TXA2/PGH2 receptor antagonists, [3H]SQ29,548 and [3H]ONO3708. Binding of S-145 to the platelet membranes was enhanced by divalent cations (Mg2+ and Ca2+), and the binding affinity in the presence of 20 mM MgCl2 was 0.75 nM, a value which was smaller than those of SQ29,548 (8.7 nM) and ONO3708 (3.7 nM). The rank order of potency (Ki) for a series of TXA2/PGH2 receptor antagonists to displace [3H]S-145 binding to the membranes was correlated with those determined from [3H]SQ29,548 or [3H]ONO3708 binding to the same preparations. Kinetic analysis for the binding of the above radiolabeled antagonist to the crude platelet membranes revealed that the dissociation rate constant (K-1) for S-145 was much smaller than that for other ligands in human, rat and rabbit platelets. The extremely slow dissociation of S-145 from the receptors may explain the long lasting characteristic of this compound in vivo as well as the abolishment of partial agonistic activity. PMID- 2525907 TI - Interaction of permanently charged chlorpromazine and dopamine analogs with the striatal D-1 dopaminergic receptor. AB - Although a structural feature common to all dopaminergic agonists and antagonists is a side-chain basic amino group, it is unclear whether this moiety binds to the D-1 dopamine (DA) receptor in the charged or uncharged form. To obtain information on this point, we synthesized permanently charged dimethylsulfonium and quaternary ammonium analogs of chlorpromazine and DA and determined whether these compounds can bind to the D-1 receptor by measuring their abilities to inhibit the binding of SCH 23390, a D-1 receptor antagonist. Chlorpromazine and the dimethylsulfonium and trimethylammonium analogs of chlorpromazine were found to inhibit the binding of [3H]SCH 22390, which was maximally inhibited to the same extent by all three compounds. In addition, inhibition curves for the compounds fit a one-site binding model, indicating binding to a single class of sites. However, while the permanently charged chlorpromazine analogs were able to inhibit [3H]SCH-23390 binding, they were considerably less potent than chlorpromazine. DA and dimethyl DA were also able to inhibit [3H]SCH 23390 binding. However, the permanently charged dimethylsulfonium and trimethylammonium analogs of DA were ineffective in inhibiting [3H]SCH 23390 binding. In addition, the permanently uncharged methylsulfide analog did not inhibit binding. These studies show that permanently charged analogs of chlorpromazine can bind to the striatal D-1 receptor, which is consistent with an anionic recognition site on the D-1 receptor that interacts with antagonists in the cationic form. In addition, it appears that a nitrogen atom is not required for binding to the D-1 receptor, since the sulfonium analog of chlorpromazine bound to the receptor to the same extent as chlorpromazine. However, since the permanently charged or uncharged analogs of DA did not bind to the D-1 receptor, it is still unclear as to whether the charged form of a dopaminergic agonist can bind. The lower potency or ineffectiveness of the permanently charged analogs compared to the parent amines (chlorpromazine, DA, dimethyl DA) in binding to the D-1 receptor may reflect the inability of the permanently charged analogs to undergo hydrogen binding with the anionic site of the receptor. PMID- 2525908 TI - Neurologic features of Williams and Down syndromes. AB - Eight patients with Williams syndrome and 6 with Down syndrome, matched for age and full-scale IQ, underwent detailed neurologic testing as part of a large multidisciplinary research center study. Williams syndrome patients were small for gestational age and often had histories of failure-to-thrive and feeding problems as infants. Half of the Williams syndrome patients had epilepsy. On neurologic testing, Williams syndrome patients had greater difficulty with gross and fine motor coordination, oromotor skills, and cerebellar function than did those with Down syndrome. The neurologic distinctions between these 2 groups may reflect an underlying, as yet undefined, metabolic defect in Williams syndrome. PMID- 2525909 TI - [Hormone receptors in the inner ear]. AB - Vasopressin binding sites could be clearly demonstrated in the cochlea. Membrane staining was mainly limited to the apical and ciliar membranes of the cochlear and vestibular hair cells, and hence to membranes in which adenylate cyclase activity could not be demonstrated. In addition to V2-vasopressin receptors that mediate hormonal signals by adenylate cyclase activation and cAMP release, in V1 vasopressin-receptors extracellular vasopressin signal is mediated by the breakdown of inositol phosphates and the release of inositol-triphosphates and diacylglycerol. Inositol triphosphates were found to be responsible for the intracellular mobilization of calcium. The localization of vasopressin binding sites at the hair cell membranes, therefore, suggests that vasopressin contributes to the breakdown and release of phospholipid messenger molecules and is thus probably involved in cochlear and vestibular signal transduction. PMID- 2525910 TI - Cytotoxicity mediated by human Fc receptors for IgG. AB - The Fc receptors for IgG(Fc gamma R) play a major role in the removal of antibody coated infectious agents and may be important molecules for triggering cytotoxicity of tumor cells; they may also serve as an entry for infection of Fc gamma R-bearing cells by viral (including HIV and Dengue), and perhaps other infectious agents. Although central to immune defense, an understanding of the role of these Fc gamma R in cytotoxicity has been complicated in part by the presence of several biochemically distinct types of receptor that have different distributions, specificities, affinities and modes of activation for killing. The development of monoclonal antibodies specific for Fc gamma R on human leukocytes has established the existence of three distinct Fc gamma R and furthermore has helped clarify the function of each of these receptors. In this review, Michael Fanger and colleagues discuss the use of Fc gamma R-specific mAb and the hybridoma cell lines that produce them in examining the ability of each of these unique receptors to mediate killing of tumor and red cell targets. In particular, the use of self-directed hybridoma cells as a model of tumor-cell killing and of bi-specific antibodies to link target cells to effector cells through the different Fc gamma R is discussed. The results of these studies suggest that the ability of a given Fc gamma R to trigger killing is sometimes dependent on the type of Fc gamma R, but is also markedly influenced by the type of target cell and by the nature and state of activation of the effector cell. PMID- 2525912 TI - Is suppression a function of class II--restricted cytotoxic T cells? PMID- 2525911 TI - CD23: a multi-functional receptor/lymphokine? AB - With the demonstration of identity between CD23 and the low affinity IgE Fc receptor (Fc epsilon RII), two previously separate avenues of immunological research have converged into one. Particularly in its guise as 'Blast-2' antigen, evidence has been mounting to implicate CD23 as an important molecule in B-cell growth regulation. It might seem pertinent, however, to question a role for an apparently isotype-specific immunoglobulin (Ig) receptor in general B-cell processes. In this article, John Gordon and colleagues attempt to reconcile the two, currently diverse, schools of thought regarding the primary function of CD23 and to provide a structural model that accounts for the biological pleiotropy observed. PMID- 2525913 TI - Human IgE-binding factors. AB - The production of IgE antibodies is known to be regulated by isotype-specific mechanisms that are not antigen specific. During the last decade several studies have indicated that soluble factors with affinity for IgE (IgE-binding factors, IgE-BFs) may exert such a role by interacting with IgE-bearing B lymphocytes. In the human, some of these IgE-BFs appear to be identical to soluble CD23, a B-cell surface marker thought to be involved in the control of B-cell proliferation or differentiation. In this article, Guy Delespesse and colleagues summarize several new findings regarding the cellular origin, structure and function of IgE BFs/sCD23. PMID- 2525914 TI - Expression of the rat amylin (IAPP/DAP) gene. AB - We have used the polymerase chain reaction with mixed sequence primers to generate a probe for rat amylin and have used this to detect expression in various rat tissues. Amylin mRNA is found in greatest concentrations in the pancreas where a single mRNA species can be detected giving a hybridisation signal intensity approximately 10% that of insulin mRNA. When the beta cell population was depleted with streptozotocin, both amylin and insulin mRNAs were reduced to a similar extent. Consistent with its supposed role in the control of carbohydrate metabolism, amylin mRNA was also found in the stomach. Unlike the related peptide, CGRP, amylin mRNA is not present in the thyroid and is not widely distributed in the central nervous system. The only nervous tissue in which it could be detected was the dorsal root ganglion. Surprisingly, amylin mRNA was also found in the lung though only at very low levels. PMID- 2525915 TI - Decreased expression of hepatic epidermal growth factor receptor gene in diabetic mice. AB - The expression of hepatic epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor gene was studied in genetically diabetic (C57BL/KsJ db/db) mice and streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice. The binding of 125I-labelled EGF to hepatic membrane preparations of genetically diabetic mice was only 35% of that of non-diabetic mice. Levels of EGF receptor messenger RNAs (10 and 6 kb) in the liver of the diabetic animals were also reduced by about 75%. In streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice, levels of hepatic EGF binding and messenger RNAs for EGF receptor were decreased to 27 and 30% of control levels respectively, at 5 weeks after injection of the drug. There were, however, no significant differences in levels of messenger RNAs for the structural protein beta-actin in the liver. In addition, levels of EGF receptor messenger RNAs in the kidney were similar between control and the two kinds of diabetic mice. Daily administration of insulin to the streptozotocin induced diabetic mice increased the hepatic levels of EGF receptor messenger RNAs to almost normal levels. These results indicate that EGF binding to its receptor decreases in the liver of diabetic mice, involving alterations in the level of EGF receptor messenger RNAs, and that insulin is important for the regulation of EGF receptor gene expression in the liver but not in the kidney. PMID- 2525916 TI - [Functional status of the hypertrophic left-ventricular myocardium in patients with hypertension]. AB - 27 patients with IIB stage of essential hypertension (EH) and left ventricular hyperthropy (LVH), 14 of them with IHD, were studied. In all of them coronaro- and ventriculography was performed. In 14 cases atherosclerotic alterations of coronary arteries were present. Nobody had abnormal pump function or contractility of myocardium. End-systolic, end-diastolic and stroke volume indexes in EH patients with pronounced coronary atherosclerosis were significantly increased. The examined patients demonstrated significant alteration of the left ventricular myocardium relaxation function. The conclusion is drawn that on a certain stage LVH is of compensatory character and plays an important role in supporting adequate myocardial pump function. PMID- 2525917 TI - [Atrial natriuretic factor]. PMID- 2525918 TI - Conformations and orientations of a signal peptide interacting with phospholipid monolayers. AB - The interaction of a chemically synthesized 25-residue signal peptide of LamB protein from Escherichia coli with phospholipids has been studied with a film balance technique. The conformation, orientation, and concentration of the peptides in lipid monolayers have been determined from polarized infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet spectroscopy, and assay of 14C-labeled peptide in transferred films. When the LamB signal peptide is injected into the subphase under a phosphatidylethanolamine-phosphatidylglycerol monolayer at low initial pressure, insertion of a portion of the peptide into the lipid film is evidenced by a rapid rise in film pressure. Spectroscopic results obtained on films transferred to quartz plates and Ge crystals show that the peptide is a mixture of alpha-helix and beta-conformation where the long axis of the alpha-helix penetrates the monolayer plane and the beta-structure is coplanar with the film. By contrast, when peptide is injected under lipid at high initial pressure, no pressure rise is observed, and the spectroscopic results show the presence of only beta-structure which is coplanar with the monolayer. The spectroscopic and radioassay results are all consistent with the picture of a peptide anchored to the monolayer through electrostatic binding with a helical portion inserted into the lipid region of the monolayer and a beta-structure portion resident in the aqueous phase. The negative charges on the lipid molecules are roughly neutralized by the positive charges of the peptide. PMID- 2525919 TI - Solution structure of the glycosylphosphatidylinositol membrane anchor glycan of Trypanosoma brucei variant surface glycoprotein. AB - The average solution conformation of the glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) membrane anchor of Trypanosoma brucei variant surface glycoprotein (VSG) has been determined by using a combination of two-dimensional 1H-1H NMR methods together with molecular orbital calculations and restrained molecular dynamics simulations. This allows the generation of a model to describe the orientation of the glycan with respect to the membrane. This shows that the glycan exists in an extended configuration along the plane of the membrane and spans an area of 600 A2, which is similar to the cross-sectional area of a monomeric N-terminal VSG domain. Taken together, these observations suggest a possible space-filling role for the GPI anchor that may maintain the integrity of the VSG coat. The potential importance of the GPI glycan as a chemotherapeutic target is discussed in light of these observations. PMID- 2525921 TI - Structural map of the dicyclohexylcarbodiimide site of chloroplast coupling factor determined by resonance energy transfer. AB - Fluorescence resonance energy-transfer measurements were made on the membrane bound chloroplast coupling factor. The distances from the N,N' dicyclohexylcarbodiimide-binding site on the membrane-bound portion of the enzyme (CF0) to the vesicle surface and to two sulfhydryl sites on the gamma-polypeptide were determined. The dicyclohexylcarbodiimide-binding site was labeled with the fluorescent species N-cyclohexyl-N'-pyrenylcarbodiimide. The vesicle surface was labeled with N-(7-nitro-2,1,3-benzoxadiazol-4-yl)phosphatidylethanolamine. Steady state energy transfer between the fluorescent-labeled enzyme (energy donor) and varying concentrations of the ethanolamine derivative (energy acceptor) indicated that the distance of closest approach between the energy donor and the outer vesicle surface is 16-24 A. Two specific sites on the gamma-polypeptide were reacted with a coumarinylmaleimide derivative; one is a sulfhydryl that can be labeled only on the thylakoids under energized conditions (the "light" site), while the other is the disulfide site that regulates enzymatic activity. Energy transfer measurements utilizing steady-state fluorescence and fluorescence lifetime methods indicated that the dicyclohexylcarbodiimide site is approximately 41 A from the light site and approximately 50 A from the gamma disulfide site. These distances are used to extend the current structural model of the chloroplast coupling factor. PMID- 2525922 TI - Catalysis and thermostability of mitochondrial F1-ATPase in toluene-phospholipid low-water systems. AB - Soluble mitochondrial F1-ATPase from bovine heart can be transferred to systems composed of a nonpolar solvent (toluene), phospholipid, and water at concentrations between 0.02 and 0.05% (volume of water per volume toluene). In these systems, F1 becomes resistant to cold denaturation and acquires a remarkable thermostability; i.e., its half-life at 70 degrees C is more than 24 h. Thermostability is due to the low content of water, since increases of water concentration bring about a progressive decrease in thermostability. At 0.04% water, the enzyme fails to catalyze a single splitting of ATP per enzyme. Gradual increases in water concentration up to 2.5% result in a progressive increase of hydrolytic activity. However, even at 2.5% water, the activity is orders of magnitude lower than in totally aqueous media. At various concentrations of water (0.1-2.5% v/v) and Mg-ATP, it was found that water affects the Vmax, but not the Km. The results show that, at levels of water below 0.04% (v/v), the enzyme is in a state that does not carry out catalysis and possesses high thermostability. As the water content is increased, the enzyme acquires the progressive flexibility that is required for catalysis and for undergoing rapid thermal denaturation. PMID- 2525920 TI - Proton NMR studies of a metallothionein from Neurospora crassa: sequence-specific assignments by NOE measurements in the rotating frame. AB - Sequential 1H NMR assignments of a metallothionein from Neurospora crassa have been accomplished by the combined use of COSY, 2QF-COSY, HOHAHA, and rotating frame NOE experiments. All potentially observable resonances were assigned except for the epsilon-NH3 group of the C-terminal lysine. 1H NOEs, when observed in the laboratory frame and at 500-MHz spectrometer frequency, were negligible in this protein due to the inherent rotational correlation time of the molecule. This difficulty was circumvented by measuring transverse NOEs in the rotating frame under spin-locking conditions. The observed pattern of NOEs reveals a marked absence of "regular" secondary structures in the protein. Thus, the stability of this metallothionein's tertiary structure must arise primarily from its metal ligation. This appears to be a general feature of MTs since a general lack of extensive secondary structural elements was also observed in other metallothioneins. PMID- 2525923 TI - Interaction of the local anesthetics dibucaine and tetracaine with sarcoplasmic reticulum membranes. Differential scanning calorimetry and fluorescence studies. AB - The local anesthetics dibucaine and tetracaine inhibit the (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-ATPase from skeletal muscle sarcoplasmic reticulum [DeBoland, A. R., Jilka, R. L., & Martonosi, A. N. (1975) J. Biol. Chem. 250, 7501-7510; Suko, J., Winkler, F., Scharinger, B., & Hellmann, G. (1976) Biochim. Biophys. Acta 443, 571-586]. We have carried out differential scanning calorimetry and fluorescence measurements to study the interaction of these drugs with sarcoplasmic reticulum membranes and with purified (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-ATPase. The temperature range of denaturation of the (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-ATPase in the sarcoplasmic reticulum membrane, determined from our scanning calorimetry experiments, is ca. 45-55 degrees C and for the purified enzyme ca. 40-50 degrees C. Millimolar concentrations of dibucaine and tetracaine, and ethanol at concentrations higher than 1% v/v, lower a few degrees (degrees C) the denaturation temperature of the (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-ATPase. Other local anesthetics reported to have no effect on the ATPase activity, such as lidocaine and procaine, did not significantly alter the differential scanning calorimetry pattern of these membranes up to a concentration of 10 mM. The order parameter of the sarcoplasmic reticulum membranes, calculated from measurements of the polarization of the fluorescence of diphenylhexatriene, is not significantly altered at the local anesthetic concentrations that shift the denaturation temperature of the (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-ATPase.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525924 TI - Characterization of the tryptophan fluorescence from sarcoplasmic reticulum adenosinetriphosphatase by frequency-domain fluorescence spectroscopy. AB - We examined the tryptophan decay kinetics of sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase using frequency-domain fluorescence. Consistent with earlier reports on steady state fluorescence intensity, our intensity decays reveal a reproducible and statistically significant 2% increase in the mean decay time due to calcium binding to specific sites involved in enzyme activation. This Ca2+ effect could not be eliminated with acrylamide quenching, which suggests a global effect of calcium on the Ca2+-ATPase, as opposed to a specific effect on a single water accessible tryptophan residue. The tryptophan anisotropy decays indicate substantial rapid loss of anisotropy, which can be the result of either intramolecular energy transfer or a change in segmental flexibility of the ATPase protein. Energy transfer from tryptophan to TNP-ATP in the nucleotide binding domain, or to IEADANS on Cys-670 and -674, indicates that most tryptophan residues are 30 A or further away from these sites and that this distance is not decreased by Ca2+. In light of known structural features of the Ca2+-ATPase, the tryptophan fluorescence changes are attributed to stabilization of clustered transmembrane helices resulting from calcium binding. PMID- 2525925 TI - Thermodynamic and enzymological characterization of the interaction between transcription termination factor rho and lambda cro mRNA. AB - Termination of transcription at tR1, the rho-dependent terminator between genes cro and cII of bacteriophage lambda, is mediated by interactions between rho protein and an RNA sequence element called rut. We show, using a filter retention assay technique, that rho protein binds with about 10-fold lower affinity to variants of cro RNA lacking both parts of rut or to normal cro RNA having one or the other part of rut bound to a complementary DNA oligonucleotide than it binds to unmodified cro RNA. These same variant and modified forms are nearly devoid of the strong rho ATPase cofactor activity of cro RNA. Estimates of binding energies of the rho-cro RNA interaction under different conditions reveal that termination function correlates with about 12.6 kcal of binding energy, of which two-thirds is due to nonelectrostatic interactions. The rut segment is shown to contribute about 1 kcal, nearly all to nonelectrostatic interactions. KCl is found to be more effective than potassium glutamate as a competitive counterion, and a decrease in 1.4 kcal of binding energy due to counterion competition correlates with a loss of termination and ATPase activities. In sum, the results indicate that the rut sequence contributes substantially to the overall binding affinity, that ionic interactions are also important, and that mere binding of rho to RNA is not sufficient for rho ATPase activation. PMID- 2525926 TI - Isotope effects on binding of NAD+ to lactate dehydrogenase. AB - The isotope effect on binding [4-2H]NAD+ and [4-3H]NAD+ to lactate dehydrogenase has been shown to be 1.10 +/- 0.03 by whole molecule isotope ratio mass spectrometry and 1.085 +/- 0.01 by 3H/14C scintillation counting. These values demonstrate that specific interactions of the nicotinamide ring with the enzyme make the C-H bond at C-4 less stiff in the binary complex. PMID- 2525927 TI - Control of dolichyl phosphoglucose formation in human liver microsomes. Kinetic and inhibition studies of nucleosides, nucleotides and analogues of UDPglucose. AB - A bisubstrate kinetic analysis of UDPglucose:dolichylphosphate glucosyltransferase from human liver microsomes has been carried out which indicated that the kinetics follow a sequential mechanism. Inhibition studies with nucleosides, nucleotides and analogues of the substrate UDPglucose revealed that the nucleoside moiety of UDPglucose, uridine, appears to be the smallest substrate analogue that is capable of specific interaction with the enzyme at the binding site for UDPglucose. The Ki values for uridine with respect to UDPglucose were 0.17 mM or 0.1 mM for enzyme reactions at pH 5.3 or pH 7.2, respectively. Modification of the uracil moiety especially at the 6 position or lack of the 2' hydroxyl group in the ribose moiety lessened the inhibitory potency as compared to uridine. The phosphorylated derivatives of uridine, UMP and UTP, were similar in their inhibitory properties to uridine, whereas UDP was about 10-fold more potent as an inhibitor of glucosyltransferase as compared to uridine due to product inhibition. The inhibitory properties of sugar nucleotides as substrate analogues of UDPglucose were not only dependent on the presence of the uracil moiety but were also influenced by the nature of the sugar residue. Furthermore, enzyme activity was dependent on the presence of divalent metal ions and was maximally stimulated in the presence of Ca2+. PMID- 2525929 TI - Mitochondrial H+-ATPase in mutants of Saccharomyces cerevisiae with defective subunit 8 of the enzyme complex. AB - Mutants of Saccharomyces cerevisiae carrying defined lesions in the mitochondrial aap1 gene, coding for membrane subunit 8 of the H+-ATPase, have been investigated to examine the consequence of the mutations on the function and assembly of the enzyme complex. These include three mit- mutants, which cannot grow by oxidative metabolism due to their inability to synthesize full-length subunit 8, and three partial revertants of one of the mutants. The mutations in these strains have been previously characterized by DNA sequencing. The use of a monoclonal antibody to the beta subunit of the H+-ATPase as a probe of assembly defect revealed that the presence of subunit 8 is essential for the assembly of subunit 6 to the enzyme complex. Mitochondria isolated from the mit- mutants have negligible [32Pi]ATP exchange activity and they exhibited ATPase activity which is not sensitive to inhibition by oligomycin, indicating a defective membrane F0 sector. Normal assembly of subunit 8 (and subunit 6) was observed in the revertant strains, despite 8-9 amino-acid substitutions in the membrane-spanning region of the H+-ATPase subunit 8 in two of the strains. The assembled complex, however, exhibited reduced [32Pi]ATP exchange activity and low sensitivity to oligomycin, indicating that the product of the aap1 gene is a functional subunit of the mitochondrial H+-ATPase. PMID- 2525928 TI - Photoaffinity labelling of the human platelet thromboxane A2/prostaglandin H2 receptor. AB - The synthesis, binding and photoincorporation of a thromboxane A2/prostaglandin H2 (TXA2/PGH2) analog (9,11-dimethylmethano-11,12-methano-16-(3-[125I]iodo-4 azidophenyl )-13,14- dihydro-13-aza-15 alpha beta-omega-tetranor-TXA2) [( 125I]PTA-Azido) to washed human platelets was characterized. Kinetic analysis of the binding of [125I]PTA-Azido at 30 degrees C yielded a k1 of 1.83.10(7) M-1.min 1 and k -1 of 0.195 min-1, Kd = k -1/k1 = 11 nM. Incubation of washed human platelets with [125I]PTA-Azido followed by photolysis resulted in the radiolabelling of a number of platelet proteins as assessed by SDS-PAGE autoradiography. The radiolabelling of three of these protein bands could be either uniformly blocked or reduced with a series of structurally dissimilar TXA2/PGH2 receptor antagonists or agonists and corresponded to proteins with a molecular mass of 43, 39 and 27 kDa. In addition, the incorporation of [125I]PTA Azido into the three proteins was stereoselectively blocked by a pair of optically active stereoisomers that are TXA2/PGH2 receptor antagonists. Two dimensional gel electrophoresis indicated that the 43 kDa protein possessed a pI value of 5.6 and that the 27 kDa protein exists in at least three isoforms with pI values of 4.9, 5.1 and 5.3. The labelling pattern was not altered by a mixture of proteinase inhibitors. The data suggest that one or more of these specifically radiolabelled proteins may represent the human platelet TXA2/PGH2 receptor. PMID- 2525931 TI - Sidedness of ceramide-phosphoethanolamine synthesis on rat liver plasma membrane. AB - Phosphatidylethanolamine:ceramide-ethanolaminephosphotransferase catalyzes the synthesis of ceramide-ethanolamine, a sphingomyelin analogue. Its transverse localization in rat liver plasma membrane was studied by treating intact and deoxycholate- or Triton X-100-disrupted membrane vesicles with trypsin or bacterial protease. The latency of ATPase was preserved during protease treatment; its value was 80% in the membrane vesicles obtained by sucrose gradient procedure alone and 91.2% in the vesicles isolated after sucrose gradient plus two-phase partitioning. This suggested that membrane integrity was not altered and that 90% of the vesicles were right-side out. When the sucrose gradient was followed by the two-phase procedure, 62% of phosphatidylethanolamine:ceramide-ethanolamine-phosphotransferase was accessible to the protease action, but only 45% in vesicles obtained by sucrose gradient alone. Our results suggest that at least a sizable portion of the active center of the enzyme responsible of biosynthesis of ceramide-phosphoethanolamine is located on the external side of liver plasma membrane and that the other is embedded in the membrane interior and is not accessible to trypsin, even in the presence of detergent. PMID- 2525930 TI - Study on ATP-generating system and related hexokinase activity in mitochondria isolated from undifferentiated or differentiated HT29 adenocarcinoma cells. AB - The functional properties of mitochondria bound hexokinase are compared in two subpopulations of the HT29 human colon cancer cell-line: (1) the HT29 Glc+ cells, cultured in the presence of glucose, which are poorly differentiated and highly glycolytic and (2) the HT29 Glc- cells, adapted to grow in a glucose-free medium, which are 'enterocyte-like' differentiated and less glycolytic when given glucose (Zweibaum et al. (1985) J. Cell Physiol. 122, 21-28). The activities of hexokinase, phosphofructokinase-1 and pyruvate kinase are found to be twice as high in Glc+ cells when compared to Glc- cells. Besides, the respiration rate is decreased in Glc+ cells compared to Glc- cells. These results correlate with the higher glycolytic rate in Glc+ cells. In many tissues, it has been shown that the binding of hexokinase to the mitochondrial outer membrane allows a preferential utilization of the ATP generated by oxidative phosphorylation which, in turn, is activated by immediate restitution of ADP. In highly glycolytic cancer cells, although a large fraction of hexokinase is bound to the mitochondria, the existence of such a channeling of nucleotides is still poorly documented. The rates of glucose phosphorylation by bound hexokinase were investigated in mitochondria isolated from both Glc+ and Glc- cells either with exogenous ATP or with ATP generated by mitochondria supplied with ADP and succinate (endogenous ATP). Diadenosine pentaphosphate (Ado2P5), oligomycin and carboxyatractyloside (CAT) were used in combination or separately as metabolic inhibitors of adenylate kinase, ATP synthase and ATP/ADP translocator, respectively. Exogenous ATP appears to be 6.5-times more efficient than endogenous ATP in supporting hexokinase activity in the mitochondria from Glc+ cells and only 1.8-times cells. The rate of oxidative phosphorylation being higher in mitochondria from Glc- cells, hexokinase activity is higher in this model when ATP is generated by respiration. Furthermore, in Glc+ mitochondria, the adenylate kinase reaction appears to be an important source of endogenous ATP for bound hexokinase, while, in Glc- mitochondria, hexokinase activity is almost totally dependent on the ATP generated by oxidative phosphorylation. This result might be explained by our previous finding that mitochondria from Glc+ cells lack contact sites between outer and inner membrane, whereas numerous contacts were observed in mitochondria from Glc- cells (Denis-Pouxviel et al. (1987) Biochim. Biophys. Acta 902, 335 348). PMID- 2525932 TI - [Binding of Glu-plasminogen by fibrinogen and byproducts of its proteolysis]. AB - The ability of the native form of plasminogen (Glu-plasminogen) to form complexes with fibrinogen and its fragments immobilized on CNBr-agarose was studied. It was found that unlike Lys-plasminogen, the native form of the proenzyme does not bind to fibrinogen agarose. Limited proteolysis of fibrinogen by plasmin involving alpha C-domains results in the appearance of Glu-plasminogen binding sites at fibrinogen surface. The X2 fragment of fibrinogen binds to about 0.5 moles of Glu plasminogen at an equimolar ratio of the interacting proteins. Under these conditions, the amount of bound Glu-plasminogen does not increase as a result of subsequent hydrolysis of fibrinogen down to end products, fragments E and D. It was found that Glu-plasminogen interacts with both E- and D-fragments of fibrinogen. Similar to Lys-plasminogen, Glu-plasminogen exhibits a high affinity for the E-fragment. The maximal quantity of the bound protein under the given experimental conditions is 2 moles per mole of the immobilized E-fragment. The interaction of Glu-plasminogen with the E-fragment is mediated by the lysine binding sites of the proenzyme with a high and low affinity [Kd = 1.8.10(-6) and 7.5.10(-5) M, respectively]. Glu-plasminogen, unlike Lys-plasminogen, shows a low affinity for the D-fragment (Kd = 2.10(-5) M). Glu-plasminogen cannot be adsorbed by arginine-binding sites at the DH fragment-agarose. PMID- 2525934 TI - Biomembranes as models for polymer surfaces. V. Thrombelastographic studies of polymeric lipids and polyesters. AB - Our approach to the design of haemocompatible biomaterials is based upon the concept that coating a polymer or metal surface with phosphatidylcholine polar groups (corresponding to the major phospholipid of the human erythrocyte outer cell membrane) will improve their haemocompatibility. We have examined the effect on blood coagulation of a number of substrates: those normally used in prosthetic devices such as polyethylene terephthalate (Dacron), expanded polytetrafluoroethylene, silicone and new polymers which contain the phosphatidylcholine head group (phosphorylcholine). The effect on coagulation of blood exposed to these substrates was determined by the technique of material thrombelastography, a relatively new method for the in vitro screening of biomaterial thrombogenicity. The results obtained with Dacron, polytetrafluoroethylene and silicone are compared with those obtained with a phospholipid-dipalmitoyl-phosphatidylcholine, a polymerized phospholipid diacetylenicphosphatidylcholine, and a range of recently synthesized polyesters, each of which contains the phosphorylcholine polar head group. PMID- 2525933 TI - Fc and complement receptor (CR1 and CR3) expression on neonatal human polymorphonuclear leukocytes. AB - Fc gamma receptor III (Fc gamma RIII) and complement receptors (CR1 and CR3) were examined on polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) from neonatal cord blood and adult blood using monoclonal antibodies directed against these receptors. Receptor expression was determined by flow cytometry. Fc gamma RIII, CR1 and CR3 expression was examined in whole blood at 4 degrees C, at 37 degrees C with or without stimulation with the chemotactic peptide f-met-leu-phe, and on PMN isolated by Ficoll-Hypaque centrifugation and dextran sedimentation. There was no significant difference between adult and cord PMN in the percent of cells which expressed Fc gamma RIII, CR1 and CR3 when examined in whole blood at 4 or 37 degrees C, or following stimulation with f-met-leu-phe. The percentage of PMN expressing CR1 and CR3 was lower on cord PMN compared to adult PMN when these cells were examined following Ficoll-Hypaque centrifugation and dextran sedimentation. The mean peak fluorescence of PMN which stained positively for CR1 and CR3 increased following f-met-leu-phe treatment of whole blood from adults and neonates. Since neonatal cord PMN were capable of upregulating complement receptors in response to chemotactic factors these results do not explain the increased susceptibility to infection exhibited by neonates. PMID- 2525935 TI - Diffusion of rat atrial natriuretic factor in thermoreversible poloxamer gels. AB - Concentrated poloxamer 407 solutions display a negative thermorheological behaviour, resulting in a higher viscosity at body temperature than below. This could be exploited for various controlled delivery applications including the nasal delivery of peptides. The rheology of the gel and the diffusion of ANF were studied as a function of temperature. A theory is proposed, according to which a temperature rise creates an intermicellar network resulting in a viscosity increase. The diffusion of the drug appears limited only by the presence of micelles which lengthens the diffusion pathways and is not significantly influenced by the formation of this network. PMID- 2525936 TI - Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopic studies of interaction of bis-GMA analogues with phosphatidylcholine liposomes as a model for biomembranes. AB - The interaction of bis-GMA analogues with dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine liposomes was studied by 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. It was found that bis-GMA analogues did not diffuse from liposomes once they were incorporated into the lipid bilayers of dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine. The mobility of iso-bis-GMA was strongly disturbed by dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine. The large changes in nuclear magnetic resonance spectra of iso-bis-GMA indicated that the interaction of iso-bis-GMA with dipalmitylphosphatidylcholine was larger than that of bis-GMA. This seems to be due to the chemical structure of iso-bis GMA with the primary hydroxyl group. PMID- 2525937 TI - Muscle afferents and the neural dynamics of limb position and velocity sensations. AB - Today muscle spindles are thought to be the primary receptor responsible for limb position and velocity. A mathematical model describing the muscle spindle's complex dynamical behavior was developed recently by Hasan. Other researchers have observed neuronal firing in the cortex of primates when muscles surrounding a joint have been passively stretched by joint movement. The purpose of this paper is to apply the muscle spindle model to a "two-muscle joint" and quantitate the resultant firing rates for various joint positions and velocities. With this information insights into the required neuronal dynamics for extracting position and velocity information from muscle spindles can be gained. PMID- 2525938 TI - Neuroendocrine responses of type A individuals to exercise. AB - Ten Type A and 10 Type B individuals exercised for 20 minutes on a bicycle ergometer at 40%, 60%, and 80% of maximal capacity to determine if differences in neuroendocrine reactivity exist. Pre-exercise plasma concentrations of beta endorphin and epinephrine were similar for Type As and Type Bs. Pre-exercise plasma levels of norepinephrine tended to be higher for the Type As (p less than 0.07). Post-exercise plasma epinephrine concentrations were similar for As and Bs for all trials. The 40% and 60% trials resulted in no differences in post exercise norepinephrine and beta-endorphin levels for the Type As and Bs. Conversely, the 80% trials resulted in significantly greater norepinephrine and beta-endorphin concentrations for the Type As (p less than 0.05). Plasma serotonin levels at rest and during exercise were always lower for the Type As (p less than 0.05). These results suggest that our Type As had a greater neuroendocrine response to high-intensity exercise than our Type Bs. The greater reactivity and analgesia may allow the Type A person to suppress feelings of fatigue, thus enduring higher levels of exertion for longer periods of time. PMID- 2525939 TI - Education and self-hypnosis in the management of low back pain: a component analysis. AB - The aim of this study was to conduct a component analysis of a group programme for chronic low back pain patients. Forty-five patients participated in the pain control course, consisting of education about pain and a training in self hypnosis. A pain diary was used as a measure of pain intensity, up-time and use of pain medication. Psychoneuroticism and depression were assessed using the Symptom Checklist-90 (SCL-90). No evidence was found for a differential efficacy of education or self-hypnosis on pain diary and SCL-90 scores. On completion of the total treatment package, patients manifested statistically significant changes on all measures except reported pain intensity. It is suggested that the pain control course is a non-invasive, inexpensive means of treatment which could be of some value in teaching even more severely disabled low back pain patients to cope more adequately with their pain problem. For this group of patients, a better adjustment to continuing pain may prove to be a more realistic therapy goal than pain reduction. PMID- 2525940 TI - Down's syndrome. PMID- 2525941 TI - DISH ... a state not a disease? PMID- 2525942 TI - Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) of the spine: a cause of back pain? A controlled study. AB - This is the first controlled study of the frequency of back pain in a European caucasian population with diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH). Elderly patients admitted to hospital for reasons other than back pain were assessed for the presence of spinal DISH using the routine lateral chest radiograph films. A total of 106 probands (82 males, 24 females) with a mean age of 70 years fulfilled the criteria for DISH as defined previously. One hundred and seventy-eight patients (117 males, 61 females) not meeting these criteria were used as controls. The prevalence of back pain was assessed by a blinded interviewer using a structured questionnaire. Our primary hypothesis was that spinal DISH positive probands had not had back pain more often than controls. This controlled study showed no statistically significant difference in pain frequency between spinal DISH positive probands and controls at any spinal level. We conclude that back pain does not occur more often in radiographically defined DISH positive probands than in controls. The radiological finding of spinal DISH, as far as it does not lead to stenosis of the spinal canal or dysphagia, thus seems to be a finding without clinical relevance. PMID- 2525943 TI - Evaluation of the efficacy and comparative effects on gastric and duodenal mucosa of etodolac and naproxen in patients with rheumatoid arthritis using endoscopy. AB - The therapeutic efficacy and upper gastrointestinal side effects of a twice daily dose of 300 mg etodolac and 500 mg naproxen were compared in 30 hospital out patients with active rheumatoid arthritis. Drugs were taken for 4 weeks in a double-blind, randomized, parallel group, single centre study. Rheumatological, endoscopic and laboratory assessments were performed at the start and on completion of the study. Mucosal lesions developed in only three (20%) patients of the etodolac group and they all had low endoscopy scores, compared to eight (53%) patients of the naproxen group with significantly worse endoscopy scores (p less than 0.05). Lesions were asymptomatic in all but one patient (on naproxen), and the gastric antrum was the commonest region involved. Of the 11 patients who developed endoscopic abnormalities in both groups, seven (64%) were moderate to heavy smokers. Etodolac had a similar antiarthritic effect to naproxen, but it appears to be better tolerated by the upper gastrointestinal mucosa as shown by endoscopy. PMID- 2525944 TI - Neuronal control of [3H]GABA uptake in the ependymocytes of the subcommissural organ: an in vivo model of neuron-glia interaction. AB - The rat subcommissural organ (SCO) is a particular but adequate paradigm for the approach, in vivo, to some aspects of neuron-glia interaction in gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) uptake. The rat SCO ependymocytes (the main component of this structure lying at the junction of the aqueduct and the third ventricle) accumulate [3H]GABA by a highly specific uptake mechanism and receive a serotoninergic input forming typical synaptic contacts. It seems that there is a correlation between the capacity of the rat SCO ependymocytes to take up [3H]GABA and the presence of a serotonin (5-HT) innervation. Indeed, in the newborn rat, no uptake of [3H]GABA was observed before the onset of this innervation and the increased [3H]GABA accumulation in the SCO was correlated with the appearance of the 5-HT terminals in the SCO. Moreover, in the mouse, whose SCO is devoid of a 5 HT innervation, no accumulation of [3H]GABA was observed in the SCO ependymocytes. Thus, the 5-HT innervation could be involved directly or indirectly in the onset of the GABA uptake carriers. On the other hand, in adult rats parachlorophenylalanine (pCPA) treatment decreased the 5-HT content of the SCO, and increased [3H]GABA accumulation; such an augmentation was not observed when rats were treated with pCPA plus 5-hydroxytryptophan to restore the 5-HT content. However, an increase in 5-HT content of the SCO by pargyline treatment appeared to have no effect on [3H]GABA uptake. Control of GABA uptake activity by 5-HT in the SCO ependymocytes could be an interesting model for the study of a possible interaction between amino-acids and other neurotransmitters by terminating their action in the extracellular space. PMID- 2525945 TI - Pineal lysosomal enzymes in the Syrian hamster: circadian rhythm and effects of castration or short photoperiod treatment. AB - A circadian rhythm in acid phosphatase and hexosaminidase was found in adult male hamsters exposed to a long photoperiod (14:10 h light/dark [LD]; lights on 06.00 h) and killed at 08.00, 14.00, 20.00, 02.00, 04.00, 05.50 and 0.615 h. Hexosaminidase and beta-glucuronidase activity at 02.00, 04.00 and 05.50 h (values pooled for these times before lights on) were significantly elevated compared to enzyme activity at 06.15 and 08.00 h (pooled values after lights on), suggesting a fall in activity associated with lights on. Hypogonadism was induced in female Syrian hamsters by exposure to a short photoperiod (10:14 h LD) until a majority of them were vaginally acyclic. Pineal lysosomal enzyme activities (acid phosphatase, beta-glucuronidase, hexosaminidase, alpha-arabinosidase and beta galactosidase) were significantly elevated in short photoperiod-exposed animals compared to animals in 14:10 LD, when measured near the middle of the light phase. In the third experiment, castrated animals were used to determine if lowered androgen levels might also affect pineal lysosomal enzyme activity. The results indicated that light phase beta-glucuronidase, hexosaminidase and beta glucosidase activities were lower in castrated males compared to their intact controls. In summary, these results demonstrate that (1) lysosomal enzyme activity is present in the Syrian hamster pineal, (2) changes can be observed which suggest involvement of this activity in pineal function and, (3) a circadian rhythm in enzyme activity is present with peak activity occurring during the night. In the short photoperiod and castration experiments, the changes in lysosomal enzyme activity could reflect either a hormonal manipulation or a change in circadian regulation of enzyme activity.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525946 TI - Cerebrospinal fluid calcium homeostasis: evidence for a plasma membrane Ca2+-pump in mammalian choroid plexus. AB - A major unanswered question in central nervous system physiology concerns the mechanism by which cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) Ca2+ homeostasis is maintained in the face of hypo- or hypercalcemia. To address this question, we sought and found a protein of Mr approximately 140,000 in choroid plexus plasma membranes that forms a phosphorylated intermediate with characteristics of a plasma membrane Ca2+-pump. A choroid plexus plasma membrane protein of this molecular weight also bound to a monoclonal antibody prepared against the human erythrocyte plasma membrane Ca2+-Mg2+ ATPase Ca2+-pump. When this monoclonal antibody was used for immunohistochemical localization, the plasma membrane Ca2+-pump was found primarily in the CSF-facing membranes of choroid plexus cells from rats, cats, and man. The localization of a plasma membrane Ca2+-pump in the CSF-facing membranes of the choroid plexus suggests that the choroid plexus, by mechanisms including this pump, may regulate CSF Ca2+ concentrations. PMID- 2525947 TI - Incidence of microscopically detectable degenerative characteristics in skeletal muscle of turkey. AB - 1. The incidence of microscopically detectable degenerative characteristics in 5 skeletal muscles (m. pectoralis thoracicus, m. supracoracoideus, m. biceps femoris, m. semitendinosus, m. femorotibialis medius) of turkeys was investigated. 2. Samples were obtained from 30 Large White turkey males 14, 16 and 18 weeks old. Hyaline degeneration, infiltration of mononuclear cells and necrotic fibres were observed. 3. Individual fibres varied greatly in size and muscle fibre nuclei were often shrunken and pyknotic. 4. Weak and/or uniform reaction for Ca++-ATPase and SDH in all types of muscle fibres and loss of alkaline phosphatase activity in cell membranes were noted. A positive reaction for acid phosphatase occurred in regions of perivascular infiltration and in necrotic muscle fibres. The majority of muscle fibres possessed high activity for phosphorylase a and b. 5. Based on the use of fluorescein alpha-bungarotoxin conjugate, motor end-plates appeared to be morphologically intact. Direct immunofluorescence with anti-chicken IgG showed positive reaction in muscle fibres undergoing necrosis and in the involved connective tissue. 6. Degenerative changes varied with age and were most marked in the oldest birds. 7. Because gross degenerative symptoms were absent from both the birds and the meat from them, the condition appears to be either different from or a precursor to the degenerative myopathy characterised by other authors. PMID- 2525948 TI - Rectus abdominis sheath hematoma as a complication of tetanus. Diagnosis by computed tomography scanning. AB - Tetanus infection as the cause of rectus abdominis sheath hematoma has not been previously reported in the literature. Such a patient, diagnosed by computed tomography scanning, is presented. The place of computed tomography examination in diagnosis of rectus sheath hematomas and abdominal wall pathology is emphasized. PMID- 2525949 TI - Vasopressin receptors and inositol trisphosphate production in blood vessels of spontaneously hypertensive rats. AB - To understand the regulation of vasopressin (AVP) receptors in spontaneous hypertension, we investigated the pressor response of AVP in the perfused mesenteric vasculature, AVP binding sites in the membrane preparation of the same vascular bed, and the production of inositol trisphosphate (InsP3) stimulated by AVP in the aorta of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY), and Wistar rats (WR) at different ages (4-16 weeks). Plasma AVP concentrations were similar in SHR, WKY, and WR at all ages. The density of AVP vascular binding sites was significantly higher in WKY than in SHR and WR at 12 weeks. Receptor affinity was similar in all strains. The pressor response of the mesenteric vasculature to AVP was similar in the three strains of rats at 4 weeks (prehypertensive stage) and increased progressively in SHR compared with WKY and WR at 8 and 12 weeks of age by 43 and 35%, respectively, and by more than 80% at 16 weeks of age (established hypertensive stage). There was no difference in vascular sensitivity to AVP. A significantly increased pressor response to a supramaximal dose of norepinephrine was also found at 16 weeks in SHR, but not in younger rats. InsP3 production in the aorta in response to AVP was increased in SHR at 8, 12, and 16 weeks, compared with WKY and WR. These results suggest that the vascular response to AVP is increased in SHR, in spite of decreased or normal density of binding sites compared with WKY or WR.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525950 TI - Modification of host antitumor defense mechanisms in mice by progressively growing tumor. AB - The EL4 lymphoma in C57BL/6 mice was used as a model to examine the effect of progressive tumor growth on a variety of cell mediated cytolytic effector functions which have been shown in other systems to have antitumor potential. The functions examined were those of cytolytic T-lymphocyte, lymphokine activated killer cells, natural killer cells, and tumoricidal macrophage (MO). The kinetics of each function displayed a unique pattern as a consequence of tumor growth, but all were inhibited in animals bearing large tumors (late tumor bearers). In cell mixing experiments it was shown that spleen cells from individual late tumor bearers were suppressive for cytotoxic T-lymphocytes, lymphokine activated killer cells, and splenic MO but not peritoneal MO or splenic natural killer cells. The suppression was nonspecific and was mediated primarily by nonadherent cells and/or their soluble products. Suppression appeared to be mediated, in part, by tumor cells in the spleen since the degree of suppressor activity associated with a particular spleen cell preparation correlated with the number of tumor cells present. Furthermore, the direct addition of viable ascites EL4 cells to response cultures or assays had similar suppressive effects as late TBM spleen cells, i.e., inhibited cytotoxic T-lymphocytes, lymphokine activated killer cells, and splenic MO but had no effect on natural killer cells or peritoneal MO. The mechanism of suppression by ascites EL4 was not determined but it was mediated by viable cells only and not due to contaminating viruses or other microorganisms. PMID- 2525951 TI - Chemopreventive efficacy of combined retinoid and tamoxifen treatment following surgical excision of a primary mammary cancer in female rats. AB - Dietary N-(4-hydroxyphenyl)retinamide (4-HPR; 3 mmol/kg diet) and s.c. injections of the antiestrogen, tamoxifen (Tx; 10 micrograms or 20 micrograms per rat, thrice weekly) were used together as adjunct chemopreventive therapy in groups of 39-40 female, Sprague-Dawley rats that each received an i.v. injection (50 mg/kg b.w.) of the mammary gland carcinogen N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU). Treatment was started immediately following the surgical excision of the first (primary) mammary carcinoma from each MNU-treated rat and was continued for 180 days. When compared to the effect of treatment with 4-HPR or Tx (30 micrograms/wk) alone, the combination treatments significantly enhanced terminal survival and reduced nonrecurrent mammary cancer incidence and multiplicity. Data showing the incidence of rats bearing the first through fifth additional cancers to appear following surgical resection of a primary lesion demonstrate that combined treatment with 4-HPR/Tx was immediately and consistently more efficacious than either agent per se in suppressing subsequent tumor appearance. This effect was apparently related to the dose of Tx. These results suggest that combined treatment with 4-HPR/Tx is superior to that of either agent alone in blocking progression of incipient neoplastic lesions at both early and later stages of the process. PMID- 2525952 TI - [Correlation between coronary angiographic and ergometric studies after coronary angioplasty]. AB - In 35 patients with effort angina exercise tests before and after coronary angioplasty (PTCA) were compared, aimed at evaluating functional improvement and at correlating some ergometric parameters with angiographic results. All tests were performed during therapy with verapamil 360 mg/die. After PTCA mean diameter of the stenosis was reduced from 68 +/- 11% to 19 +/- 12%. Duration of exercise and rate-pressure product (RPP) were significantly greater in the test after PTCA. While all tests before PTCA were positive, after PTCA ST segment depression occurred in 9 patients (26%). In 7 of these patients it was less than 1 mm. In 26 patients (74%) tests were negative after PTCA. In patients with ST segment depression, ischemia threshold significantly rose from 5.2 +/- 1.5 min (RPP 15,875 +/- 3,253 to 7.6 +/- 1.2 min (RPP 20,157 +/- 3143). Maximal ST segment depression and ST/HR slope were significantly reduced. In negative stress tests the time free from ischemia significantly rose from 6.5 +/- 2.6 min (RPP 18,872 +/- 3,861) to 10.5 +/- 2.3 min (RPP 28,476 +/- 4,289). In patients with positive tests stenosis after PTCA was more severe than in patients without ST segment depression (29 +/- 13% vs 17 +/- 13%). In patients with ST segment depression improvement of ischemia threshold and of stenosis were correlated. In these patients improvement of ischemia threshold is the ergometric parameter more useful to evaluate the angiographic result of PTCA. PMID- 2525953 TI - No evidence of platelet activation during atrial pacing in subjects with stable angina. AB - Platelet behaviour (activation) in ischemic heart disease (stable angina) during pacing-induced tachycardia was studied. ECG was recorded during the trial. Ischemic heart disease (IHD) subjects had 75% or more narrowing of the luminal diameter of a coronary artery, demonstrated by coronary angiography. Eight subjects needing cardiac catheterism because of supraventricular rhythm disturbances with no evidence of IHD were studied as controls. Beta thromboglobulin (beta-tg) and platelet factor 4 (PF4) were studied as platelet activation markers; beta-tg and PF4 were evaluated before atrial pacing in peripheral venous blood and, by catheterism, before and at maximum pacing rate in coronary venous sinus (CVS) and in ascending aorta (AA). Catheterism and blood withdrawals were performed in order to reduce platelet activation in vivo. No significant difference in platelet activation between IHD patients and control group in peripheral venous blood were found. No trans-myocardial gradient neither in IHD subjects nor in controls were observed. In conclusion, no platelet activation in IHD patients during pacing-induced tachycardia could be observed. PMID- 2525955 TI - Left ventricular dilatation following myocardial infarction: clinical course and potential for therapy. AB - The enlarged heart has long been recognized as an important sign of systolic dysfunction of many different etiologies. Regardless of etiology, cardiac enlargement is associated with decreased survival. Cardiac enlargement after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) may be a progressive process. Early after AMI, the process of infarct expansion, or thinning and stretching of the infarct region leads to early volume enlargement detectable within 3 days of the infarct. During the next 2 weeks, volume enlargement takes place which includes lengthening of both the infarcted and the non-infarcted regions. Finally, additional left ventricular enlargement occurs during the next year after the infarction. Both experimental and clinical studies have demonstrated that such progressive LV enlargement may be halted by angiotensin converting enzyme inhibition with captopril. A large scale randomized trial is currently under way to determine whether captopril improves survival after infarction (Survival and Ventricular Enlargement, SAVE). PMID- 2525954 TI - [Effects of atrial natriuretic peptide on left ventricular function in man]. AB - The effects of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) infusion were determined in 9 subjects undergoing cardiac catheterization which did not disclose heart disease. Data were obtained at rest and during the steady-state phase of alpha-human-(1 28)-atrial natriuretic peptide infusion (0.5 microgram/Kg bolus dose, 0.05 microgram Kg/min iv for 20 min). Mean blood pressure decreased from 105 +/- 3 to 98 +/- 4 mmHg (p less than 0.05); pressure measurements and left ventricular (LV) angiograms suitable for analysis were available in 7 of 9 subjects at matched heart rate. The infusion of ANP reduced LV end-diastolic and end-systolic volume indices from 93 +/- 6 to 80 +/- 6 ml/m2 (p less than 0.01) and from 25 +/- 3 to 17 +/- 1 ml/m2 (p less than 0.05), respectively. Left ventricular ejection fraction insignificantly increased from 72 +/- 5 to 77 +/- 4%. End-systolic pressure/volume ratio showed a slight but not significant rise (from 3 +/- 0.4 to 4 +/- 0.8). Initial plasma levels of ANP (48 +/- 12 pg/ml) rose to 1890 +/- 423 pg/ml (p less than 0.001) during the infusion and individual hemodynamic responses were not related to plasma concentrations of the peptide. These data suggest that the administration of ANP has no negative effects on LV function and the ANP-induced changes on cardiac performance are related to the reduced cardiac load. PMID- 2525956 TI - Interventional treatment in evolving myocardial infarction. AB - Residual myocardial function has been shown by many investigators to be a key factor in determining survival following acute myocardial infarction. In light of this, much effort has been undertaken to develop means of preserving myocardium in the setting of acute myocardial infarction. Acute revascularization has been approached as a logical method to reach this end. The development of more effective thrombolytic agents, better catheter dilatation systems, and improved surgical techniques have now made acute intervention possible, safe, and practical. Because of the marked clinical variability of patient presentation, as well as variability of available medical and surgical resources, a rational and logical system of approach must be developed, such that patients presenting with acute myocardial infarction can receive the most appropriate interventional therapy in any given setting. PMID- 2525957 TI - Surgical treatment of acute myocardial infarction. AB - In 1989 the following indications for surgical treatment of acute myocardial infarction are: (1) acute evolving myocardial infarction less than 6 h from onset, in patients in whom percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) or streptokinase (SK), depending on the coronary anatomy, has been unsuccessful; if single vessel disease, coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is unlikely; if multiple vessel disease, CABG is preferable to SK/PTCA unless a very major 'culprit' lesion can be identified with certainty; (2) postinfarction angina hours to days after a transmural myocardial infarction unyielding to maximal medical therapy and in patients with a coronary artery obstruction not amenable to PTCA; (3) occlusion of a coronary artery during cardiac catheterization that cannot be fixed by PTCA and/or SK; (4) occlusion of a coronary artery during PTCA causing hemodynamic obstruction and a threatened myocardium subtended by the obstructed coronary artery; (5) balloon-dependent patients in cardiogenic shock without mechanical defects who have adequate residual left ventricular function as determined by regional wall motion studies; (6) ventricular septal defect secondary to myocardial infarction unless there is terminal organ damage; (7) mitral valve replacement with coronary bypass for acute papillary muscle rupture; (8) semi-emergency cardiac transplantation, either with or without a mechanical bridge to transplant in young individuals (less than 50 years) who have suffered massive destruction of left ventricular myocardium by an acute coronary occlusion with or without recurring ventricular tachyarrhythmias. Ejection fraction in this clinical category is always under 0.20 and usually under 0.15. PMID- 2525958 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide and angiotensin II binding sites in cerebral capillaries of spontaneously hypertensive rats. AB - 1. We carried out investigations on specific atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and angiotensin II (ANG) binding sites in capillaries isolated from the cerebral cortex of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), an animal model of human essential hypertension, and also from Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY). 2. In an equilibrium binding study done in the presence of increasing concentrations of the radiolabeled ligands, the binding of 125I-rat alpha-ANP (1-28) [ANF-(99-126)] (125I-rANP) and 125I-ANG (5-L-isoleucine) (125I-ANG) to the cerebral capillaries was single and of a high affinity. 3. The maximum binding capacity (Bmax) and dissociation constant (Kd) in the 125I-rANP binding of 20-week-old, hypertensive SHR was significantly lower than in age-matched, normotensive WKY. Conversely, a significant increase in the Bmax of 125I-ANG binding of adult SHR was observed, with a significant decrease in the Kd. 4. There was no differences in the Bmax of 125I-rANP and 125I-ANG binding between 4-week-old, prehypertensive SHR and age matched WKY. However, there was a significant decrease in the Kd of 125I-rANP binding of SHR. 5. As a dramatic change in the binding kinetics of 125I-rANP and 125I-ANG was noted in the cerebral capillaries of adult sustained-hypertensive SHR, the possibility that ANP and ANG play a role in the etiology of dysfunction of the blood-brain barrier complicated with hypertension, by interacting with specific receptors, would have to be considered. PMID- 2525960 TI - The symptomatic lumbar spine in the athlete. AB - The lumbar spine is resistant to serious injury in normal athletic activity, but it can often be symptomatic. Although the symptoms are frequently musculotendinous in origin, it is important that structural causes be recognized early, particularly in the skeletally immature athlete. In the mature athlete, it is important to be aware of the normal aging process and the resultant structural changes that occur in the lumbar spine. Accurate assessment of this process is often necessary for sound management. PMID- 2525959 TI - Stimulation of polymorphonuclear leukocytes by dicyclohexylcarbodiimide: calcium homeostasis. AB - The involvement of calcium in N,N'-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCCD)-mediated stimulation of guinea pig neutrophils was investigated. Exposure to DCCD resulted in a fast though moderate elevation of cytosolic calcium concentration. Exchange experiments indicated that DCCD enhanced 45Ca2+ efflux without affecting uptake of the radioisotope from the medium. Plasma membranes isolated from DCCD stimulated cells failed to support ATP-dependent 45Ca2+ uptake indicating inhibition of their Ca-ATPase. The finding that the enhanced efflux of 45Ca2+ depended on the presence of Na+ ions in the medium implicated a Na+/Ca2+ exchanger in efflux of the ion observed in DCCD-stimulated neutrophils. This is the first indication for the participation of this carrier in calcium homeostasis in stimulated neutrophils. Experiments carried out with 14C-DCCD indicated covalent binding of the reagent to 20 and 150 Kd membrane proteins. PMID- 2525961 TI - Inducible responses to DNA damaging or stress inducing agents in Neurospora crassa. AB - Two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis has been used to analyze proteins from wild type and mutagen sensitive mutants of Neurospora crassa under constitutive conditions and after treatment with mutagens and other stress inducing agents. Several proteins have been detected that are either induced or show changes in electrophoretic mobility in response to UV irradiation, 4-NQO, X ray, paraquat and heat shock. Ten proteins were found to respond to more than one of the stress inducing agents, demonstrating a complex pattern of polypeptide inductions. The significance of these findings and the possible effects of some of these proteins on the DNA repair process and stress management are discussed. PMID- 2525962 TI - Duplication of the tRNA(MMet) and tRNA(Cys) genes and of fragments of a gene encoding a subunit of the NADH dehydrogenase complex in Neurospora grassa mitochondrial DNA. AB - Neurospora crassa mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) contains duplications of the tRNA(MMet) gene upstream of a gene (ND2) encoding a subunit of the NADH dehydrogenase complex and of the tRNA(Cys) gene which is found downstream of the apocytochrome b gene. Both duplicated genes are located upstream of the small rRNA gene. The duplications are extended to flanking sequences. In the case of the tRNA(MMet) duplication, two fragments of the ND2 gene are also duplicated. These two fragments, which are not contiguous in the ND2 gene, are connected to each other by a palindromic sequence of 37 bp and together they constitute an open reading frame. The possible involvement of this palindromic sequence in the processes of gene duplication and transfer is discussed. Two overlapping reading frames are present between the tRNA(MMet) and tRNA(Cys) copies. All information of the ND2 duplication and the two overlapping reading frames are present on a polycistronic transcript. PMID- 2525963 TI - [Cryotherapeutic possibilities in the treatment of corneal burns with acid in an animal experiment. II. Histochemical study]. AB - On 10 experimental animals (20 eyes of bastard rabbits) the authors tested the possibility to influence by cryostimulation the increase of the acid mucopolysaccharide content (glycosaminoglycans or proteoglycans) after damaging the eye with 6.0% = 1.4 N sulphuric acid. Eight corneae were subjected to cryotherapeutic treatment 4-6 hours after corrosion, by the method of contact freezing with a cryoapparatus OKG 2, using a technique which in the first part of the work had a convincing cryostimulating effect: working temperature -70 degrees C, 10 spots with a diameter of 2 mm for 7 seconds placed directly in the cornea surrounding the damaged area. As controls for both groups (corroded and cryotreated and corroded not treated) served four normal intact corneae (two animals as above). Collection of samples of the cornea was made on the 4th and 10th day after corrosion. The corneae were processed by histological methods stained with toluidine and alcian blue. It was revealed that on the 4th as well as 10th day after cryostimulation the acid mucopolysaccharide content was higher than without cryostimulation. On the 10th day after the injury and cryotherapy the acid mucopolysaccharide content was normal. The results were evaluated by Fischer's test. The increase of acid mucopolysaccharides on the cornae was more rapid than at the 1% level of significance, as compared with corneae without cryotherapy. Cryotherapy thus promoted restoration of acid mucopolysaccharides in the corroded corneae. PMID- 2525964 TI - Effect of two aliphatic aldehydes, methylglyoxal and 4-hydroxypentenal, on the growth of Yoshida ascites hepatoma AH-130. AB - The influence of a ketoaldehyde, methylglyoxal (MG), and a hydroxyalkenal, 4 hydroxypentenal (HPE), on the growth of a highly-deviated tumour has been investigated. MG and HPE, administered intraperitoneally, strongly depressed in rats the proliferative activity of the Yoshida ascites hepatoma AH-130, reducing its mitotic and labelling indices as well as the proportion of cycling cells (growth fraction). Monitoring the effects on the cell cycle by the labelled mitoses method showed that the percentage of labelled mitoses was markedly lowered after either aldehyde, which is indicative for a blocking effect in the S phase. In addition, the mean cell cycle time was slightly prolonged by MG, probably due to accumulation of cells in G1, whereas HPE delayed the first mitotic peak and increased the mean DNA synthetic period without modifying the overall cycle time. The effects of HPE on the cell cycle were prevented by pretreatment with polyamines. Repeated doses of MG significantly increased the fraction of tumour-bearing rats surviving at 90 days ('indefinite' survivors) as well as the survival time of those which succumbed, implying that the carcinostatic effect of MG persisted over several cell cycles. By contrast, HPE did not significantly modify the survival of AH-130-bearing rats, suggesting that its influence on tumour growth was rapidly reversible. PMID- 2525965 TI - Thromboxane A2 receptor antagonists. I. Synthesis and pharmacological activity of 7-oxabicyclo-[2.2.1]heptane derivatives with the benzenesulfonylamino group. AB - Four stereoisomers of 7-oxabicyclo[2.2.1]heptane derivatives with the benzenesulfonylamino group, 11, 14, 23 and 33, were synthesized and their sodium salts were examined in vitro for inhibitory activity against aggregation of rabbit platelet-rich plasma and of rat washed platelets. The trans-isomer 23 exhibited high potency but showed a partial agonistic effect. Compound 11 did not show a partial agonistic effect, though it was a less active inhibitor. The following trans compounds were synthesized and their IC50 values were measured: homologated trans-isomers with one methylene chain (47 and 53), an olefin derivative (58), and optically active derivatives [-)-11 and (+)-23). PMID- 2525966 TI - Structure of an anti-plasmin inhibitor, eckol, isolated from the brown alga Ecklonia kurome Okamura and inhibitory activities of its derivatives on plasma plasmin inhibitors. AB - Eckol (1), a novel phlorotannin with a dibenzo-1,4-dioxin skeleton, has been isolated from the brown alga Ecklonia kurome Okamura as a potent and specific anti-plasmin inhibitor. Its structure has been elucidated based on the spectral data, in particular, by means of negative nuclear Overhauser effect (NOE), and finally established as 1-(3,5-dihydroxyphenoxy)-2,4,7,9-tetrahydroxydibenzo-1,4 dio xin by X-ray analysis. Some partially methoxylated derivatives of eckol were prepared by methylation with diazomethane and also by selective dimethylation of eckol permethylate (1b) to establish the structural requirements for inhibitory activities on alpha 2-macroglobulin and alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor, the main plasmin inhibitors in plasma. PMID- 2525967 TI - Abnormal in vitro differentiation of clonogenic B-cells in common acute lymphoblastic leukemia in complete remission. A marker for minimal residual disease? AB - An in vitro B-cell colony assay system was used to evaluate B-cell differentiation from peripheral blood precursors in common acute lymphoblastic leukemia (cALL) patients in remission as compared to normal controls. Significant differences in the morphologic and phenotypic features of pooled colony cells were found between the two groups. The morphology and surface markers of control cultured cells were those of young plasmocytes. In contrast, patients' cells had predominantly a lymphoblastoid appearance and a mean of 18% (2-72%) of the cells expressed the cALL (CALLA) antigen. This marker, known to be present on normal pre-B-cells and malignant cALL cells, was not found on control colony cells. Cytogenetic studies performed in four cases showed that a fraction of the patients' colony cells had karyotypic abnormalities similar to that of the original lymphoblasts. These data suggest that the cells with immature features persisting in the colonies of cALL patients are the progeny of residual circulating cells linked to the malignant clone which cannot be detected in the fresh sample and are clonally expanded during the culture. PMID- 2525969 TI - Atheroembolic renal disease: association with renal arterial stenosis. AB - In elderly patients with generalized atherosclerosis and longstanding hypertension, progressive renal insufficiency should suggest renal artery occlusive disease and/or renal cholesterol embolization. Renal cholesterol embolization is not an absolute contraindication to successful surgical revascularization. Renal cholesterol emboli were identified in biopsy specimens obtained in 24 cases at the Cleveland Clinic from 1978 to 1986, and renal artery stenosis was an associated finding in 19. Clinical manifestations of generalized atherosclerosis were common, including ileofemoral atherosclerosis (18), coronary artery disease (16), carotid occlusive disease (15), and carotid occlusive disease with a history of stroke (8). Evidence of embolic events in other organs was common. Hypertension worsened before biopsy in 21 patients with and without renal artery stenosis. Surgery or angiography definitely or probably contributed to renal failure in 16. Of 12 who underwent surgical revascularization of a renal artery, renal function improved in five, remained stable in five, and worsened in one. Renal function improved in the three patients undergoing dialysis before revascularization, and two were able to discontinue dialysis. PMID- 2525968 TI - Monitoring and treatment of minimal residual cancer of the prostate. AB - In manifest prostatic carcinoma, partial and complete remissions are obtained in 14-44% of patients as judged by different sets of criteria, but in up to 61% as judged by a decrease in prostatic acid phosphatase. Moreover, this decrease is poorly correlated to that of prostatic size. Prostatic acid phosphatase is therefore considered to be a relatively non-specific tumor marker. A complete remission, i.e. a stage of minimal residual disease, is obtained in about 25% of the patients. Continued endocrine treatment involves the risk of a flare-up of the disease, which is probably small. Additionally, in minimal residual disease, prolonged maintenance treatment requires minimization of side effects. D-Trp-6-LH RH appears to lead to less gynecomastia and thromboembolism than some other forms of adjuvant therapy. PMID- 2525970 TI - Alterations of the cardiopulmonary reflex with hypertension and aging in man. PMID- 2525971 TI - Changes of plasma noradrenaline levels in the renal and systemic circulation after successful percutaneous transluminal angioplasty in renovascular hypertension. AB - The sympathetic nervous system involvement in the pathogenesis of human renovascular hypertension was studied in 10 hypertensive patients with unilateral renal artery stenosis, who underwent percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA). Before PTA, systolic/diastolic BP readings were 185.3 +/- 7.8/123.2 +/- 5.1 mmHg, peripheral PRA values were 8.63 +/- 2.27 ngAl/ml/h, the ratio RVRR was 2.15 +/- 0.27, the ratio V1-IVC/IVC was 1.00 +/- 0.23 (V1 = PRA from the renal vein of the stenotic side, IVC = PRA from the inferior vena cava) and the ratio V2-IVC/IVC was 0.04 +/- 0.02 (V2 = PRA from the renal vein of the non-stenotic side); 30 min after successful PTA the respective values of the above measured parameters were: 144.2 +/- 6.7/98.2 +/- 3.1 mmHg (p less than 0.01), 8.13 +/- 2.21 ngAl/ml/h (p less than 0.005), 1.79 +/- 0.19 (p less than 0.01), 0.68 +/- 0.18 (p less than 0.001) and 0.06 +/- 0.02 (p less than 0.005). Peripheral plasma noradrenaline levels (plNA) were 0.694 +/- 0.058 ng/ml, plNA levels from the renal vein of the stenotic side were 0.962 +/- 0.108 ng/ml and plNA levels from the renal vein of the non-stenotic side were 0.759 +/- 0.092 ng/ml; 30 min after successful PTA the respective values were 0.518 +/- 0.055 ng/ml (p less than 0.01), 0.681 +/- 0.078 ng/ml (p less than 0.005) and 0.510 +/- 0.063 ng/ml (p less than 0.005). It is suggested that the reversal of chronic renal ischaemia by PTA induced statistically significant changes in the sympathetic nervous system activity, parallel to the changes of renin secretion. PMID- 2525972 TI - The skull base and nasopharynx in Down's syndrome in relation to hearing impairment. AB - Children with Down's syndrome have a higher incidence of middle ear effusion than normal children. Twenty-eight patients with Down's syndrome and 33 age and sex matched normal controls were studied. They were subdivided into 2 further matched groups on the basis of having normal or impaired hearing. Each underwent pneumatic otoscopy, audiometry and lateral head and neck radiography. This study examines radiological parameters to determine whether skeletal or soft tissue factors within the skull base or nasopharynx could be implicated as a cause or diagnostic feature of Eustachian tube dysfunction. The nasopharynx tended to be smaller in those with Down's syndrome and this resulted in a reduction in the airway size due to encroachment by the soft tissues. The angle between the base of skull and hard palate was significantly less acute in those with Down's syndrome and in those with hearing loss. PMID- 2525973 TI - Levels of atrial natriuretic peptide are not always consistent with atrial pressure: is there alternative regulation as evidenced in Gordon's and Bartter's syndromes? AB - 1. In Bartter's syndrome, atrial pressures were low, consistent with volume contraction, while atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) levels were unexpectedly elevated. Infusion of normal saline increased both right atrial pressure (RAP) and ANP levels, while administration of prostaglandin inhibitors raised RAP, probably due to volume expansion, but ANP levels fell paradoxically. 2. In Gordon's syndrome, atrial pressures were unexpectedly low or normal despite volume expansion, while ANP levels were normal. Pressor infusions of angiotensin II either raised right and left atrial pressures (LAP) without increasing ANP, or increased ANP without increasing atrial pressures. 3. In these two syndromes, atrial pressures and ANP levels were poorly correlated, leading to the proposal that other regulators of ANP may be important. PMID- 2525974 TI - Effects of altitude on atrial natriuretic peptide: the Bicentennial Mount Everest Expedition. AB - 1. Overnight recumbent atrial natriuretic peptide levels were significantly elevated in all ten subjects of the Australian Bicentennial Mount Everest Expedition during the first week at 5400 m, during acclimatization. 2. Twenty four hour urine volume and urine sodium increased markedly at altitude. 3. Plasma renin activity and plasma aldosterone levels decreased significantly at altitude. 4. No significant changes in plasma cortisol, plasma sodium or potassium, body temperature, systolic or diastolic blood pressure or heart rate were observed. 5. Although it was impossible to control or measure salt and water intake during the study, results suggest that atrial natriuretic peptide may be important in the reduction in renin and aldosterone levels and in the diuresis and natriuresis necessary to adapt to hypoxia at altitude. PMID- 2525975 TI - Hemodynamic and antianginal effects during rest and exercise of intravenous isradipine, a new dihydropyridine calcium antagonist. AB - In an open randomized study, hemodynamic and antianginal effects of nifedipine and the new dihydropyridine derivative isradipine were compared in patients with stable, angiographically confirmed coronary heart disease. Right heart hemodynamics, systemic arterial blood pressure, ECG, and drug plasma concentrations were measured before medication at rest and exercise, after infusions of increasing doses at rest, and again after treatment at rest and exercise. A linear relationship between serum concentrations and cumulated dosages was obtained for both drugs. At rest, both drugs significantly increased cardiac output and heart rate. The reduction of arterial blood pressure was significantly greater after isradipine (systolic from 148 +/- 3 to 104 +/- 3 mmHg; diastolic from 90 +/- 4 to 58 +/- 2 mmHg) than after nifedipine (systolic 149 +/- 6 to 125 +/- 4 mmHg; diastolic 92 +/- 4 to 76 +/- 3 mmHg). The minimal effective plasma level of isradipine regarding blood pressure reduction was estimated at 5 ng/ml (nifedipine: 10-25 ng/ml). During exercise both medications significantly reduced mean pulmonary artery pressure (isradipine: 40 +/- 3 to 20 +/- 1 mmHg, nifedipine: 37 +/- 4 to 22 +/- 1 mmHg), pulmonary artery wedge pressure (isradipine: 23 +/- 3 to 10 +/- 1 mmHg, nifedipine 24 +/- 3 to 14 +/- 1 mmHg), and diastolic arterial pressure (isradipine: 103 +/- 3 to 73 +/- 4 mmHg, nifedipine: 99 +/- 3 to 91 +/- 2 mmHg), whereas systolic pressure was reduced by only isradipine (189 +/- 4 to 147 +/- 5 mmHg). Neither medication significantly changed electrocardiographic ST depression during exercise.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2525976 TI - Endothelium-dependent relaxation to acetylcholine in the aorta of streptozotocin induced diabetic-rat and the BB-diabetic rat. AB - Experiments were designed to investigate the phenomenon of endothelium-dependent relaxation (EDR) to acetylcholine in two animal models of insulin dependent diabetes mellitus. Thoracic aortas obtained from streptozotocin diabetic rats and genetically diabetic biobreeding rats (BB rats) were used in this study. Concentration-effect curves to acetylcholine were carried out on aortic rings under isometric tension. Following the induction of diabetes with streptozotocin, half of the animals were treated with daily intermediate acting insulin and the other half maintained without insulin for a period of 12 weeks before the experiment. The diabetic BB rats were also maintained on insulin. The EDR to acetylcholine was not impaired in the aortas of streptozotocin diabetic rats (insulin treated as well as untreated) compared to nondiabetic controls. The scanning electron microscopic (SEM) appearances of the aortic endothelium did not differ among the three groups of animals. However, the EDR to acetylcholine was found to be impaired in the aortas of diabetic BB rats. (Maximum relaxation: 25.3 +/- 5.0% of the contraction to norepinephrine compared to 52.2 +/- 5.3% in controls.) The SEM appearances of the aortic endothelium in the diabetic BB rats were found to be abnormal with edema and loss of definition of cell margins compared to nondiabetic controls. The differences in EDR to acetylcholine seen between the two animal models of diabetes may be related to the different aetiologies of diabetes in the animals. PMID- 2525977 TI - Injectable contraception. PMID- 2525979 TI - Etodolac, a new nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug: a global review and update. 15 July 1988, Paris, France. Proceedings. PMID- 2525980 TI - Theoretical mechanism for the gastrointestinal safety of etodolac: selective sparing of cytoprotective prostaglandins. AB - The high concentrations of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins (PGs) produced in the joint during the initial stage of inflammation can be decreased by inhibiting their biosynthesis with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The commonly encountered gastrointestinal intolerance in human subjects treated with NSAIDs is generally attributed to inhibition of PG synthesis in gastric mucosa, where the natural role of locally biosynthesized PGs is to protect the mucosa from necrosis upon exposure to noxious agents. The action of an ideal NSAID should therefore be tissue specific, i.e., it should inhibit PG formation at the sites of inflammation but not in gastric mucosa, where PGs are needed for cytoprotection. We believe that etodolac, a new, structurally distinct NSAID, meets this criterion, inhibiting PG synthesis in a tissue-specific fashion. Experimental data supporting this interpretation were obtained in rats by demonstrating that daily administration of orally effective anti-inflammatory doses of etodolac had no significant effect on gastric mucosal PGE2 or prostacyclin levels (measured as the stable metabolite, 6-keto-PGF1 alpha). In contrast, naproxen, piroxicam, and aspirin caused a statistically significant PG depletion. The results obtained in rats thus support the view that the favorable gastrointestinal safety profile of etodolac in human patients may be attributable to selective sparing of the cytoprotective PGs in gastric mucosa. PMID- 2525978 TI - Cardiopulmonary bypass and the pharmacokinetics of drugs. An update. AB - Cardiopulmonary bypass is accompanied by profound changes in the organism that may alter the pharmacokinetics of drugs. Drug distribution can be altered, for example, by changes in blood flow and by haemodilution, with a decrease in protein binding; a decrease in the elimination of some drugs can be caused by impairment of renal or hepatic clearance, due, for example, to lowered perfusion and hypothermia. The subject was reviewed in the Journal in 1982, and the emphasis of the present review is on new data related to specific drugs. The following substances are dealt with: benzodiazepines, cephalosporins, digitalis glycosides, general anaesthetics, glyceryl trinitrate (nitroglycerin), lignocaine (lidocaine), muscle relaxants, nitroprusside, opiates, papaverine and propranolol. For many of these substances an abrupt decrease has been observed in serum concentration upon initiation of bypass, which is explained by haemodilution and an increase in distribution due to decreased protein binding. For nitrates and some opiates, adsorption to the bypass apparatus was shown to be important. The gradual increase in serum concentrations seen during cardiopulmonary bypass with some drugs after the initial fall is usually explained by redistribution of the drug and/or decrease in its elimination. The same phenomena are thought to explain why in the post-bypass period a concentration increase occurs, or at least a slower decrease than expected. However, drug elimination has been directly measured in only a few studies. The short duration of the bypass procedure and the continuous changes during the process hamper a rigorous pharmacokinetic evaluation. Studies allowing more precise understanding of the mechanisms underlying the observed concentration changes are needed, but are difficult to design. Similarly, more data are awaited on the pharmacodynamic and clinical consequences of the concentration changes. PMID- 2525982 TI - A review of the antiarthritic efficacy and safety of etodolac. AB - Etodolac (Lodine, Ramodar, Ultradol), an anti-inflammatory, analgesic agent, is the first of a new class of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), the pyranocarboxylic acids. A review of the literature on numerous clinical studies showed that etodolac (200 to 600 mg/day) is effective in the treatment of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Etodolac has also been shown to be very well tolerated. In double-blind studies, there were no significant differences in the incidences of new patient complaints except for indigestion between etodolac treated groups and placebo-treated groups. Gastrointestinal microbleeding associated with etodolac was comparable to that with placebo and was significantly less than that associated with other commonly used NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, indomethacin, piroxicam, and naproxen. The results of laboratory tests, including a detailed analysis of hepatic and renal function, have revealed few abnormalities, most of which were clinically unimportant. When administered to healthy subjects, etodolac had no pharmacokinetic interactions with three other drugs that are highly bound to serum protein: warfarin, glyburide, and phenytoin. PMID- 2525981 TI - Profile of etodolac: pharmacokinetic evaluation in special populations. AB - The pharmacokinetics of etodolac, a new nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, were compared in normal subjects, in patients with renal and hepatic disease, and in elderly patients. In 28 normal subjects, orally administered etodolac was rapidly absorbed. By 1.2 hours after ingestion of a 200 mg dose, the maximum serum concentration (Cmax) averaged 15.9 micrograms/ml, with more than 99% of the drug bound to serum protein. Clearance was primarily hepatic. The mean half-life (t1/2) was 6 to 7 hours. There were no apparent differences in Cmax, the time at which Cmax occurred (tmax), area under the serum concentration/time curve (AUC0 24), or t1/2 between groups of young men (n = 20), elderly men (n = 24), and elderly men with osteoarthritis (n = 20), after a single dose of etodolac or after 7 days of subchronic administration. Moreover there was no evidence of accumulation. There also were no differences in Cmax, tmax, AUC0-24 or t1/2 between groups of normal subjects (n = 10) and patients with mild-to-moderate renal impairment (n = 10). Patients with end-stage renal disease who were receiving chronic hemodialysis had the same mean serum concentration of free drug as normal subjects, even though mean serum levels of protein-bound etodolac were slightly lower than those in the normal subjects. The only significant (p less than 0.05) difference between patients with stable hepatic cirrhosis and normal, age-matched subjects was a slightly shorter tmax in the cirrhotic subjects (1.1 vs. 1.4 hours). These findings suggest that no alteration of etodolac dosage would be necessary in these high-risk groups. PMID- 2525983 TI - Etodolac, a new nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug: gastrointestinal microbleeding and endoscopic studies. AB - A review of the literature is presented on the gastrointestinal effects of etodolac, a new nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), as evaluated in both microbleeding and endoscopic studies. In four microbleeding studies, gastrointestinal blood loss in healthy subjects was estimated by a 51Cr erythrocyte labeling method before drug treatment, after 7 days of treatment with NSAIDs including etodolac, and 1 week after the last day of treatment. In these 7 day studies, the gastrointestinal blood loss seen with etodolac (600 to 1200 mg/day) was similar to that seen with placebo and significantly (p less than 0.05) less than that seen with aspirin (2600 mg/day), naproxen (750 mg/day), ibuprofen (2400 mg/day), or indomethacin (200 mg/day). Naproxen, ibuprofen, and indomethacin caused mean daily blood losses in excess of 1 ml/day over baseline values. The increase with aspirin was 4 to 5 ml/day. In contrast, the greatest mean daily increase in blood loss with etodolac therapy was 0.2 ml. In a 4-week study of etodolac (600 and 1000 mg/day) and piroxicam (20 mg/day) given to patients with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, blood loss seen with etodolac was comparable to that seen with placebo and significantly less than that seen with piroxicam. Gastrointestinal irritation was also assessed by endoscopy after 1 week of NSAID or placebo treatment. Endoscopy scores after etodolac treatment (up to 1200 mg/day) were similar to scores at baseline and after placebo and were significantly lower than scores following treatment with aspirin (3900 mg/day), indomethacin (200 mg/day), ibuprofen (2400 mg/day), or naproxen (100 mg/day). The effects of etodolac (600 or 1000 mg/day) and diclofenac (150 mg/day) were not different from each other or from baseline. These data indicate that etodolac, in these studies, did not cause clinically significant gastrointestinal microbleeding or visible gastric injury. By the criteria used in these studies, etodolac is less irritating to the gastrointestinal tract than aspirin, indomethacin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or piroxicam, and compares favorably with diclofenac. PMID- 2525985 TI - International experience with etodolac therapy for rheumatoid arthritis: an interim report of comparative efficacy. AB - Etodolac, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) of the pyranocarboxylic acid family, has been tested in international clinical trials as a therapy for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Preliminary results of 8- to 12-week double-blind trials indicate that etodolac therapy (200 mg twice a day) compared favorably with piroxicam therapy (20 mg once a day) and diclofenac therapy (50 mg three times a day) as measured by improvement in scores of five efficacy assessments: number of painful joints, number of swollen joints, physician's global assessment, patient's global assessment, and pain intensity. Etodolac also was as effective as naproxen (500 mg twice a day) as measured by improvement in scores in the five efficacy assessments. The observation that etodolac is as efficacious as three commonly used NSAIDs should interest clinicians who attempt to tailor NSAID therapy to the needs of individual RA patients, since etodolac has previously demonstrated an excellent safety profile. However, these trials must be completed to verify these preliminary results in a greater number of patients. PMID- 2525986 TI - A global safety evaluation of etodolac. AB - Etodolac has previously been reported to have an excellent safety profile. Results of recent clinical trials and of a clinical practice study were compared with the previously reported safety data for etodolac. The total incidence of patient complaints and of laboratory abnormalities continues to be low, with no apparent increase in side effects with increasing patient age. In the clinical practice study, 60% of study events occurred early in therapy (before 10 weeks). These data support an excellent safety profile for etodolac. PMID- 2525987 TI - [Enoxacin in the treatment of bacterial infections of the urinary tract]. AB - In order to evaluate effectiveness and tolerance of treatment with 300 mg tablets of enoxacine (one every 12 hours), 30 patients between the ages of 29 and 75 were selected (51.23 +/- 2.19 yrs. was the average age), 4 males and 26 females; 18 patients had acute cystitis, 7 had pyelonephritis, 4 had cystopyelitis, and 1 had urethroprostatitis. Treatment lasted on average of 10.77 +/- 0.52 days, with a minimum of 7 and a maximum of 20 days. Initial culture analysis of urine samples ascertained the presence of microbial pathogens sensitive to enoxacine. After one week of treatment, culture analysis of urine samples did not reveal the presence of these pathogens, all having been successfully eliminated. The improvement of the objective and symptomatic parameters chosen for evaluating the effectiveness of the treatment was found to be rapid and decisive in the majority of patients. The systemic tolerance was good; the side effects were minimal (three cases of slight gastroenteric intolerance). At the end of treatment, results were considered excellent in 18 patients and good in 12, on the basis of the more or less rapid resolution of the clinical and symptomatic situation. PMID- 2525984 TI - Recent clinical experience with etodolac in the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee. AB - Interim results are reported for three double-blind clinical trials comparing etodolac, a new nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), with piroxicam, diclofenac, or naproxen in patients with osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee. Patients assigned to receive etodolac were given 200 mg three times a day in the diclofenac comparison and 300 mg twice a day in the other two studies. The comparator groups in the three studies received piroxicam 20 mg once a day, diclofenac 50 mg three times a day, or naproxen 500 mg twice a day. The length of the studies ranged from 6 to 12 weeks, and patients were seen at baseline and every 2 weeks thereafter. Etodolac, piroxicam, and diclofenac treatment consistently resulted in similar and statistically significant changes from baseline, indicative of improvement, in all primary efficacy variables (physicians' and patients' global assessments of improvement, pain intensity, and night pain) at every evaluation. In the comparison with naproxen, patients who received etodolac showed statistically significant improvement at most evaluations, whereas significant changes were less frequent in the naproxen group. Response rates in the three studies (response was defined as a decrease of 1 or more units in the patient's overall global evaluation, which is based on a 5 point scale ranging from 1 = very good to 5 = very poor) were as follows: etodolac 72%, piroxicam 75%; etodolac 66%, diclofenac 56%; and etodolac 40%, naproxen 16%. These interim results suggest that the efficacy of etodolac compares favorably with that of other NSAIDs in the treatment of OA of the knee. PMID- 2525988 TI - [Relationship between clinical diagnosis and microbiological diagnosis of symptomatic vaginitis]. AB - After comparing the referral diagnoses of women with vaginitis sen to our cervicovaginitis out-patient clinic at the Ospedale Fatebenefratelli e Oftalmico of Milan with the subsequent bacteriological diagnoses, the Authors emphasize that treatment for the different types of vaginitis must be prescribed only after accurate and thorough bacteriological examination in order to avoid inadequate treatment and unnecessary discomfort to the patients. PMID- 2525989 TI - [Current knowledge and problems of accelerated idioventricular rhythm. Clinical observations and indications for therapy]. AB - The authors report on present knowledge and questions concerning Accelerated Idioventricular Rhythm (AIR). The electrocardiographic characteristics and the supposed electrophysiologic mechanisms are analyzed and compared to ventricular tachycardia (VT). The authors emphasize that AIR is not a single entity: in some cases it may represent an unusual form of VT, in others a separate ventricular arrhythmia. PMID- 2525991 TI - [Acute respiratory virosis]. AB - The authors discuss acute viral infections of the respiratory tract that cause high epidemic-pandemic morbidity and relevant mortality owing to secondary bacterial superinfections. Current measures of environmental and individual prevention do not seem to be effective. Similarly, the traditional therapeutic approach based on antibiotics is not always sufficient. However, the yearly prophylactic vaccination against influenza virus is the effective measure provided current WHO recommendations are followed. PMID- 2525990 TI - [Role of vitamin D3 in hematology]. AB - It has been recently shown that 1,25(OH)2D3 induces differentiation and inhibits the proliferation of normal and leukemic cells in vitro. A review of the literature and the preliminary clinical applications of this vitamin in hematology are reported. PMID- 2525993 TI - [XXIV. The future of slimming anorectics]. PMID- 2525992 TI - [Problems of chemotherapy in pregnancy]. PMID- 2525994 TI - [The elderly problem]. PMID- 2525995 TI - [Lactitol and neomycin: monotherapy or combined therapy in the prevention and treatment of hepatic encephalopathy?]. AB - The beneficial effect of disaccharides, lactulose and lactitol, in prevention and treatment of hepatic encephalopathy is well established but their use in combination with neomycin is still controversial. We studied in vitro the fecal bacterial growth, acid and gas formation in presence of lactitol (beta galactoside-sorbitol) and neomycin alone or in combination. The results indicate that neomycin only inhibits the growth of susceptible bacteria (E. coli, Staph. aureus) which, conversely, are poor lactitol fermenters. The resistant organisms (Lactobacillus acidophilus, Clostridium perfringens) that are efficient disaccharide fermenters continue to metabolize lactitol still when antibiotic is added. Addition of lactitol 10% increased the inhibitory effect of neomycin on bacterial growth by 25-50% within 60-70 min. These preliminary data suggest that lactitol and neomycin may have additional or synergistic effects in vivo when used together in presence of favourable intestinal microbial environment. PMID- 2525996 TI - [Aztreonam vs norfloxacin: a comparative study of the treatment of urinary tract infections in ambulatory and hospitalized patients]. AB - Eighty-two evaluable patients suffering from UTI were randomly treated with parenteral Aztreonam (1 g OD in cystitis and 1 g BID in pyelonephritis) or oral Norfloxacin (400 mg BID). Predisposing urological conditions were present in 75% and 78.5% respectively. Microbiological cultures at the end of treatment and at a follow-up visit after 4 weeks showed significantly better results among Aztreonam treated patients (microbiological cure: 97.5% vs 71.4%-p less than or equal to 0.005). Clinical cure was achieved in 97.5% and 71.4% respectively (p less than or equal to 0.001). A statistically significant difference was present only in patients treated for pyelonephritis (microbiological cure-AZT: 100%; NOR: 50%-p less than or equal to 0.0005) and not in those with cystitis (AZT: 95.0%; NOR: 83.3%). Side effects were rare in both treatments. Aztreonam seems to offer major advantages, when compared to Norfloxacin, in the treatment of UTI, especially when upper urinary tract is involved. PMID- 2525997 TI - [Personal experiences concerning the usefulness of the exercise test in the diagnosis of ischemic heart disease in aged patients with atypical symptomatology]. AB - Present-day therapeutic possibilities, both medical and surgical, make it mandatory for the practitioner to identify elderly patients with ischemic heart disease which in these patients often presents with atypical symptoms. Twenty elderly patients with not clear-cut symptoms of coronary disorder were submitted to an exercise test on a walking belt. In 14 (70%) the test was positive and in 8 of these 14 cases previous dynamic electrocardiography had not yielded signs of ischemia. The authors consider correctly performed exercise testing the best means for identifying the often not diagnosed coronary impairment of elderly subjects. PMID- 2525998 TI - [Efficacy and tolerability of captopril-hydrochlorothiazide vs amiloride hydrochlorothiazide combination in mild to moderate arterial hypertension]. AB - Forty patients, mean age 56.87 yrs. with light or moderate essential arterial hypertension were randomized double-blind into two subgroups of 20 subjects each, and submitted to daily combined drug treatment with either captopril 50 mg + hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg (group A) or amiloride 5 mg + hydrochlorothiazide 50 mg (group B). Patients were monitored after the washout period and after 4 and 8 weeks of treatment approximately 20-24 after the last dose. The following parameters were studied: blood pressure, heart rate, body weight, untoward side effects. Standard laboratory tests were performed in all patients after washout and at the end of the 8-week treatment period. Both combinations significantly reduced pressure values but the captopril-hydrochlorothiazide combination reduced blood pressure more readily and proved more effective in reducing diastolic values. There were no dropouts due to subjective side effects which were of little relevance and were equally distributed among the two groups. As for laboratory data, patients taking the captopril-hydrochlorothiazide combination had a statistically significant increase in blood glucose. Neither combination induced significant changes in the other parameters, especially as far as potassemia was concerned. PMID- 2525999 TI - [Therapy of headache]. AB - Cephalalgias are divided into four syndromes and the most severe of these, migraine, presents several therapeutic applications. PMID- 2526000 TI - [Problems of neurological drug therapy in pregnancy]. PMID- 2526001 TI - [Socioeconomic status and chronic diseases of the aged. A multicenter study]. AB - The above study was carried out in a population sample of 1250 elderly subjects living at home, from five Italian regions (Budrio in Emilia-Romagna, Ponte S. Nicolo in Veneto, Bernareggio in Lombardy, Sezze in Latiumm, Melito in Campania). The results obtained lead to the following conclusions: 1. The condition of loneliness appears to have a detrimental influence on health in both sexes. Among other consequences, loneliness leads to progressive spontaneous reduction of daily milieu and social requirements, as well as to an impression of dependence that cannot be easily overcome. 2. The study of the relationship between the presence or absence of chronic pathologies and legal title of domicile has shown that if the home is their own by legal property or usufruct this has a favorable influence, especially in males. Property also satisfies emotional needs, through the profound ties between personal history and certain places. 3. Positive changes in life style may have beneficial effects on the interaction between socio-economic variables and the onset of chronic pathologies, especially in old age. PMID- 2526002 TI - British Diabetic Association Medical and Scientific Section, spring meeting. 13 15 April 1989, Manchester. Abstracts. PMID- 2526003 TI - Cell surface proteins reacting with activated complement components. AB - The biologic activities mediated by the products of complement activation include cellular, bacterial, and viral lysis, inflammation, phagocytosis, and immunoregulation. These responses are achieved through the interaction of the activated forms of several of the complement proteins with cell membrane proteins. This report reviews aspects of the structure, ligand specificity, and function of the various complement receptors with particular emphasis on those receptors which bind to the activated fragments of C3. In addition, we briefly summarize the surface proteins on foreign particles that bind C3 and their possible role in the pathogenesis of these organisms. PMID- 2526004 TI - Human nasal septal cartilage: analysis of intracellular enzyme activities, glycogen content, cell density and clonal proliferation of septal chondrocytes of healthy adults and acromegalic patients. AB - The human septal cartilage is of ectodermal origin and contributes to midfacial growth and development. Acromegaly is an endocrine disease due to growth hormone (Gh) excess originating from a somatotrophic adenoma of the pituitary gland. Excessive Gh levels lead to high insulin-like growth factor I (IGF I) concentrations, which are known to stimulate cartilage growth in vivo and in vitro. One of the salient clinical pictures is coarsening of the midface and enlargement of the septal cartilage. Septal cartilage was obtained from 8 acromegalic patients during transnasal hypophysectomy and from 10 healthy adults during septoplasty to analyse the following aspects of cartilage biochemistry, metabolism and growth. 1. Intracellular glycogen, the major source of energy of chondrocytes, was determined enzymatically and found to be drastically reduced in acromegaly. 2. Several intracellular enzymes, related to biomatrix degradation, showed a strict local pattern of distribution. Cathepsin B activity, a neutral proteinase degrading both the helical and nonhelical region of the collagen molecule was significantly increased in acromegaly, whereas alkaline phosphatase activity, an enzyme related to mineralization of the cartilage at the chondroosseous junction was depressed in acromegaly. 3. The cell density in some areas of the septal cartilage was increased in acromegaly, whereas the clonal proliferation rate of its chondrocytes in response to serum and growth factors was decreased. Chondrocytes both of healthy adults and acromegalic patients could be effectively stimulated by insulin-like growth factor I and II and to a lesser extent by epidermal growth factor. PMID- 2526005 TI - The ocular secretory immune system: a review. AB - The majority of immunoglobulin in tears is of the immunoglobulin A (IgA) isotype, which is produced mainly by plasma cells of the lacrimal gland. The mechanism responsible for the lodging of the IgA cells in this gland is unknown and probably not dependent on direct glandular encounter with antigen. Previous experiments have suggested that a Th cell from the lacrimal gland can influence B lymphocytes to differentiate into IgA plasma cells. Mechanisms responsible for the IgA-specific Th cell accumulation in the LG could be related to nervous system influences, possibly neuropeptides. These effects on Th cells could be mediated either directly or through lacrimal gland epithelial cells. Such a mechanism could explain the presence of IgA-producing plasma cells in the lacrimal gland, and would allow strategies for manipulation of this important first line defense immune system. PMID- 2526006 TI - Allergic contact dermatitis due to thymol in Listerine for treatment of paronychia. PMID- 2526007 TI - Erythroderma from systemic contact dermatitis: a complication of systemic gentamicin in a patient with contact allergy to neomycin. AB - A patient who was sensitive to potassium dichromate and neomycin showed a universal exfoliative erythroderma following intravenous gentamicin therapy. When his ear canals were later treated with a neomycin-containing topical medication, he reacted so severely that the skin of his ears was temporarily depigmented. Withdrawal of aminoglycoside antibiotics along with use of a topical steroid preparation under occlusion brought the eruption under control. Since approximately half of the persons with contact allergy to neomycin will also react to gentamicin, it seems unwise to treat such patients with other intravenous aminoglycosides that are closely related chemically. In our patient, multiple patch tests to other aminoglycosides caused positive reactions to all reagents containing a deoxystreptamine ring, but there was no reaction to streptomycin, which lacks that structure. PMID- 2526008 TI - Teicoplanin: Part 1. An evaluation of the concentrations seen in serum and the subcutaneous fat of the relatively ischaemic lower limb following a single intravenous bolus. AB - Teicoplanin is a new antibiotic currently undergoing clinical evaluation. Consecutive patients undergoing elective vascular surgery (n = 28) were randomised to receive a single intravenous bolus of 400 mg teicoplanin 1, 3, 6 or 12 h prior to surgery as prophylaxis against Gram-positive infection. Serum and fat antibiotic levels were measured and found to exceed the established MICs for common staphylococcal and streptococcal infections for at least 12 h following administration. This suggests that teicoplanin would be a useful choice of antibiotic in the prophylaxis and treatment of appropriate infections in elective surgery. By extrapolation, teicoplanin would also be of use in the prophylaxis and treatment of suitable infections seen in traumatised patients. PMID- 2526009 TI - Teicoplanin: Part 2. Evaluation of its use in the biliary system. AB - Teicoplanin is a new antibiotic currently undergoing extensive investigation to evaluate its potential use in the prophylaxis and treatment of appropriate infection. To ascertain its penetration into the biliary system, 24 patients undergoing elective cholecystectomy were randomised to receive an intravenous bolus of 400 mg teicoplanin 1, 3, 6 or 12 h prior to surgery. During the operation, blood, gall bladder bile and tissue and common bile duct bile were removed for teicoplanin estimation. The results show that teicoplanin penetrates well into the gall bladder wall and bile, though less well into common bile duct bile. These results show that teicoplanin would seem to be a suitable antibiotic for the treatment of biliary infections that are known to be sensitive to the antibiotic. PMID- 2526010 TI - Therapy of serious gram-positive infections with teicoplanin. AB - Teicoplanin was used as monotherapy in 17 seriously ill patients (mean age 51 years, range 18-71) with infection due to Gram-positive organisms. The dose used was 200 mg teicoplanin intravenously once daily after an initial intravenous dose of 400 mg. Most of the patients (15 out of 17) were septicaemic (confirmed by blood culture), the other two had deep abscesses. The pathogens isolated were Staphylococcus epidermidis [15], Streptococcus faecium [1] and JK Coryneform [1]. The 15 patients with Staph. epidermidis infections had all been treated previously with a beta-lactam (usually flucloxacillin)/aminoglycoside combination to which Staph. epidermidis was resistant. All patients were still pyrexial after 48 h of therapy and were then changed to teicoplanin as monotherapy. Patients were treated with teicoplanin for 5 to 7 days. One was withdrawn because of vomiting associated with the teicoplanin infusion, and another was withdrawn because she was given amikacin for a separate Gram-negative infection, but all the other 15 patients responded well to therapy, usually becoming apyrexial within 48 h. All 15 septicaemic patients had central lines in situ: 10 responded to therapy with the line left in situ but in 5 the lines were removed, either before or during teicoplanin therapy. Teicoplanin levels were determined in all patients, usually on day 2, with no evidence of toxicity from these levels. Teicoplanin was found to be effective as monotherapy for septicaemia mainly due to Staph. epidermidis in patients with severe underlying disease. PMID- 2526011 TI - [Occupational dermatoses in Poland]. AB - The work-related dermatological situation in Poland is presented based upon all cases of occupationally derived illnesses and supported by the statistical data, from the period 1985-1986. PMID- 2526012 TI - [Endorphins]. PMID- 2526013 TI - [New indications of kidney function by gamma imaging]. PMID- 2526014 TI - [Inhibition of morphine hyperthermia, induced by nicotinamide]. AB - The effect of nicotinamide, administered immediately before the morphine or on the background of already developed morphine hyperthermic reaction, was studied on morphine hyperthermia. It was established that nicotinamide, administered before morphine, inhibited development of morphine hyperthermia, statistically significantly up to 120 min after administration of morphine. Nicotinamide, administered, on the 60th min after morphine injection, did not inhibit significantly the developed already hyperthermic reaction. In connection with the discussion of the established effects a series of experiments were carried out on N-demethylation of morphine and nicotinamide influence on in vitro. These experiments proved that nicotinamide inhibited noncompetitive demethylation of morphine. PMID- 2526015 TI - Endoscopic percutaneous gastrostomy using a modified instrument for puncture of the abdominal wall and the stomach. AB - A new instrument for the puncture of the abdominal wall and stomach while performing endoscopic percutaneous gastrostomy is described. It has several advantages as compared with the instruments used so far, one of which is that it makes the method safer and easier. PMID- 2526017 TI - Effects of tunicamycin and N-linked oligosaccharide-processing inhibitors on the morphology of cultured porcine thyroid cells. AB - The effects of tunicamycin and of N-linked oligosaccharide-processing inhibitors on the ability of cultured porcine thyroid cells to adhere to a plastic support and to form organized structures were examined. The culture conditions used allowed the epithelial cells to adhere to the support and to form either a monolayer (no thyrotropin) or follicles (thyrotropin 4 mU/ml). The follicles thus obtained tend to disappear after 8 to 9 days, giving rise to a monolayer. Tunicamycin prevented both cell adhesion to the support and formation of organized structures. Swainsonine, an inhibitor of mannosidase II, had no obvious effect. Deoxymannojirimycin, an inhibitor of mannosidase I, did not prevent cell adhesion to the support and formation of monolayers or follicles, but it favored the maintenance of follicles at a time when they were no longer present in controls. It also led to the appearance of some follicles in cultures without thyrotropin. Castanospermine, an inhibitor of glucosidase I, did not prevent cell adhesion but slowed cell spreading, thus delaying monolayer formation. Pronase glycopeptides prepared from cell-surface glycoproteins were examined with respect to their behavior on concanavalin A-Sepharose. The glycopeptides from control cells displayed complex and high-mannose glycans. The content in complex glycans was decreased in inhibitor-treated cells, while that in hybrid or high-mannose glycans was increased, indicating that the inhibitors modify the N-glycan structures. In conclusion, N-glycosylation of glycoproteins is necessary for cellular adhesion to the support. Complex structures do not seem necessary for cell adhesion monolayer or follicle formation. High-mannose structures favor follicular organization, while glucoses on the high mannose structures hinder cell spreading. PMID- 2526016 TI - cDNA sequence of the rat U snRNP-associated protein N: description of a potential Sm epitope. AB - Anti-Sm antibodies from a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) were used to isolate cDNA clones encoding the snRNP-associated protein N from a rat brain derived cDNA library. The predicted primary structure of the 240 amino acid protein has a proline rich carboxyl terminus and shares a region of sequence similarity with other snRNP polypeptides, A and B/B'. Anti-Sm sera recognize a beta-galactosidase fusion protein containing only the carboxyl-terminal 80 amino acids of N; antibodies eluted from this fusion protein also react with A, B/B' and N on immunoblots, suggesting that these proteins share an Sm epitope located within this segment. Polyclonal antibodies raised against a 23 amino acid synthetic peptide derived from this conserved region of N recognize A, N and B/B' on immunoblots and can immunoprecipitate the Sm class of U snRNAs. These results confirm that this sequence defines a potential Sm epitope. RNA blotting analyses demonstrate that a 1.6 kb mRNA expressed predominantly in brain encodes the N polypeptide in both rats and humans. At low stringency rat N cDNA also hybridizes to a 1.3 kb mRNA species which encodes B/B', suggesting that N is structurally related to, but distinct from B/B'. Although B/B' proteins are thought to be expressed in all human cells, only N and B, but not B', are observed on immunoblots of human brain proteins probed with anti-Sm sera. The apparent difference in the complement of proteins associated with snRNP particles in human brain versus elsewhere suggests a possible mechanism for the regulation of brain specific mRNA splicing. PMID- 2526018 TI - Radiation sensitivity of Down's syndrome fibroblasts might be due to overexpressed Cu/Zn-superoxide dismutase (EC 1.15.1.1). AB - Trisomy 21 (Down's syndrome, DS) is the most frequent chromosomal aberration. Triplication of a small region of chromosome 21, the fragment 21q22 is sufficient to cause the DS phenotype including immunodeficiency, premature aging, neurodegenerations, mental retardation and an increased risk of leukemia. Chromosomal aberrations caused by X-ray irradiation were observed in DS lymphocytes and DS fibroblasts, but the correlation to cell death or repair deficiency was not clear. We approached this problem and report here on a profound X-ray repair deficiency of DS cells. With a colorimetric viability assay we observed an UV sensitivity of DS fibroblasts at doses beyond 14 Jm-2 but no significant X-ray sensitivity. By the nucleoid sedimentation technique, a deficient restoration of nucleoids in DS cells after X-ray irradiation was demonstrated. The same features apply for cells, which contain an overexpressed Cu/Zn-superoxide dismutase (SOD-1) gene. Radiation sensitivity of DS cells and SOD-1 overexpressing cells resemble those of ataxia telangiectasia (AT) fibroblasts. Additionally, DS and AT cells exert lack of inhibition of DNA synthesis after X-ray irradiation. PMID- 2526019 TI - Abnormal blood flow patterns in renal arteries of small preterm infants with patent ductus arteriosus detected by Doppler ultrasonography. AB - Blood flow velocities and pulsatory indices in both renal arteries (RAs) and in the internal carotid artery (CAI) were measured by pulsed Doppler ultrasonography in ten preterm infants with patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), before and after surgical ligation. The results obtained in the RAs were compared to those found in a reference group of 22 stable preterm infants. In the RAs the diastolic steal volume of the PDA led to a marked decrease in diastolic blood flow velocity (range 3 to -23 cm/s). Seven infants showed retrograde diastolic flow, whereas only three infants had these flow patterns in the CAI. In the RAs, the peak systolic blood flow velocities (range 56 to 135 cm/s) exceeded the values found in the reference group by 85% on average. The pulsatility indices reached values of above 1,00. In spite of the increase in systolic flow velocities before surgery, the time mean of maximum velocities was significantly lower than those measured after surgery and in the reference group. After PDA ligation, blood flow velocities normalized. The present study shows that a large PDA may induce abnormal flow patterns even in the RAs. These flow patterns may predispose to renal hypoperfusion and subsequent impairment of renal function. PMID- 2526020 TI - Pharmacokinetics of 6-thiouric acid and 6-mercaptopurine in renal allograft recipients after oral administration of azathioprine. AB - The immunosuppressive activity of azathioprine (AZA) is unpredictable and depends on the formation of intracellular thiopurine ribonucleotides. However, the quantification of these active thiopurines presents difficult analytical problems. It has recently been postulated that plasma concentrations of 6 thiouric acid (6-TU) and 6-mercapto-purine (6-MP), metabolites of AZA, may provide more readily measurable indices of the pharmacologic activity of AZA. In order to evaluate the utility of 6-TU and 6-MP plasma concentrations in monitoring AZA therapy, we studied their pharmacokinetics in 6 renal transplant patients, and their in vitro immunosuppressive potency in a mixed lymphocyte proliferation assay. A peak plasma 6-TU concentration of 710.7 ng/ml was observed at 3.8 h after oral dosing. Good correlation was observed between the elimination t1/2 of 6-TU and serum creatinine, and between AUC over 24 h and serum creatinine. However, we did not observe a second peak in plasma 6-TU concentration that could be attributed to the degradation of active AZA metabolites. 6-MP plasma concentrations in the patients were low (mean peak concentration 36.0 ng/ml) and rapidly disappeared within 8 h. In vitro immunosuppressive activity could not be demonstrated for 6-TU over a concentration range of 1.25 ng/ml to 0.25 mg/ml. We conclude that 6-TU is pharmacologically inert and is primarily eliminated by the kidneys. Our findings currently do not support the use of plasma concentrations of 6-TU or 6-MP to monitor AZA therapy. In order to optimize AZA therapy, analytical techniques that are technically feasible and that can directly quantify the active intracellular thiopurines are being explored. PMID- 2526021 TI - Assessment of the antiarrhythmic activity of nicorandil during myocardial ischemia and reperfusion. AB - The potential pro- and antiarrhythmic effects of nicorandil (1-100 microM) were assessed in isolated rat hearts subjected to coronary artery ligation and reperfusion under conditions of normal (5.9 mM) and lowered (3.2 mM) perfusate K+. Nicorandil dose dependently increased coronary flow, induced a moderate negative inotropic effect but had no chronotropic effects. During ligation (15 min), only high concentrations of nicorandil (50 and 100 microM) significantly reduced the incidence of ventricular premature beats and ventricular tachycardia in normal perfusate, but ventricular fibrillation was observed in 2/9 hearts. No antiarrhythmic effects were observed with hypokalemic conditions. During reperfusion, nicorandil was associated with a more rapid degeneration into ventricular fibrillation in normal perfusate while the incidence of ventricular fibrillation was only reduced by 100 microM nicorandil. No antiarrhythmic effects were observed during reperfusion with lowered K+ and all drug-treated hearts demonstrated irreversible ventricular fibrillation. Nicorandil perfusion (50 microM; 5.9 mM K+) did not affect the depression of ATP or elevation of lactate within the ischemic tissue during coronary artery ligation. These data do not support an effect of nicorandil against ischemia- or reperfusion-induced arrhythmias in the intact heart in vitro and may suggest a proarrhythmic effect particularly at lowered K+ concentrations. PMID- 2526022 TI - The quinolinic acid model of Huntington's disease: locomotor abnormalities. AB - In contrast to other excitotoxins, such as kainic acid, quinolinic acid (QA) may spare a specific population of striatal neurons that is also spared in Huntington's disease (HD). Although several histological and biochemical experiments support the use of QA as a model for HD, to date no behavioral experiments have been performed to examine the suitability of this model. The present study explored the behavioral effects of bilateral intrastriatal microinjections of four doses (75, 150, 225, 300 nmol) of QA in the male rat. Using a multidimensional analysis of spontaneous locomotion (Digiscan activity) and a record of metabolic indicators, such as weight loss, a dose-dependent effect was found. The 75-nmol dose had no significant effect on locomotion or feeding behavior. In contrast, the 150- and 225-nmol doses induced hyperactivity and weight loss, whereas the 300-nmol dose was lethal. The results obtained suggest that striatal injections of 150-225 nmol of QA induce behavioral deficits qualitatively similar though quantitatively less than those which are seen after similar injection of 3 nmol of kainic acid and which have been reported to be comparable to the symptomatology of HD. Together with QA's possible greater histological selectivity, the present results support the use of QA-induced striatal lesions as a behavioral model of Huntington's disease. PMID- 2526023 TI - [Relation of the structure, rate of hydrolysis and activity of dicarboxylic acid esters]. AB - The kinetics of enzymatic cholinesterase hydrolysis of dicarboxylic acid esters with neuromuscular blocking activity was studied in vitro. The maximum hydrolysis rate was shown to increase on elongation of the distance between ester groups both in the compounds containing a hydrophobic adamantyl radical attached to quaternary nitrogen and in bis-esters not containing adamantyl radicals. The comparison of neuromuscular blocking activity in vivo, enzymatic hydrolysis rates and activity on isolated skeletal muscle of some compounds demonstrated that in vivo activity is in a higher correlation with the maximum hydrolysis rate of the compounds that with activity in isolated skeletal muscle before or after cholinesterase inhibition. PMID- 2526024 TI - Limitations of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty in the treatment of femoro distal graft stenoses. AB - Non-invasive follow-up of 94 femoro-distal reconstructions has identified 14 graft related stenoses (4 proximal anastomotic, 4 intragraft and 7 distal anastomotic). Stenoses treated by percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) recurred by 6 months. Stenoses treated by surgical revision remained satisfactory with a mean follow-up of 13 months. In this series, formal surgical revision appears to be superior to PTA for the treatment of graft stenoses. PMID- 2526025 TI - Long-term results of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty: a study of 4750 dilatations and local lyses. AB - During a period of 8 years 4750 percutaneous transluminal angioplasties and local lyses have been performed in the Department of Radiology of the University of Freiburg and the Hochrheinklinik Bad Sackingen. From 1984 to 1987 all patients have been assessed clinically and in 320 cases angiographically. Lesions were localised mainly to the pelvic and the femoro-popliteal regions. The short and long term results have been compared, i.e. 2-8 years after PTA. Patients with occlusive disease from stage IIa to stage IV were treated. Long-term success of PTA (2-8 years after the intervention) reached 85% in stage IIa, 73% in stage IIb, 68% in stage III and 36% in stage IV, when all treated lesions were included. PMID- 2526026 TI - Angioplasty for a failing vein graft. PMID- 2526027 TI - Operative laparoscopy: time for acceptance. PMID- 2526028 TI - Safe laser endoscopic excision or vaporization of peritoneal endometriosis. AB - In using laser laparoscopy for the treatment of endometriosis, protecting patients from inadvertent injury to pelvic structures adjacent to diseased tissue has been a major concern. In many cases, because of this risk, surgeons have stopped short of effecting thorough treatment of endometrial implants on the bowel, bladder, ureters, or great vessels. In a large series of patients, we have used hydrodissection successfully with few complications. We believe that the technique of hydrodissection is a safe and efficient method, permitting more thorough treatment of endometriosis that otherwise might be deemed untreatable by laser laparoscopy. PMID- 2526029 TI - Age of the female partner is a prognostic factor in prolonged unexplained infertility: a multicenter study. AB - Among 2,106 couples registered in 12 Canadian infertility clinics, 470 (22.3%) were classed as unexplained infertility after a uniform evaluation of the male ejaculate, ovulation, and tubal patency. The unexplained group included more older female partners; 44% were over 30 years of age at registration in the participating clinics, compared with 36% in other infertility diagnostic groups. The mean duration of infertility was 40.1 months, and the cumulative pregnancy rate was 36.6 +/- 2.9% at 2 years after registration. When the variables were examined with the use of proportional hazards analysis, each additional month of duration of infertility reduced the expected prognosis by 2%, and a history of pregnancy in the partnership improved the prognosis by 80%. Among couples with 3 years or more duration of infertility (cumulative pregnancy rate, 27.5 +/- 3.9%), an additional year in the age of the female partner when conception was first attempted (mean, 26.8 years) reduces the prognosis by 9%. PMID- 2526030 TI - Laser laparoscopy for polycystic ovaries. PMID- 2526031 TI - Circulating lipid and lipoprotein concentrations during danazol and high-dose medroxyprogesterone acetate therapy of endometriosis. AB - In a study on endometriosis, ten patients were treated with danazol (200 mg three times a day) and ten patients with high-dose medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) (100 mg a day) for 6 months. The circulating high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol concentration decreased significantly in the danazol (53%) and in the MPA groups (26%); the change in the danazol group was significantly higher than that in the MPA group. Danazol also significantly increased the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels (37%), whereas MPA had no significant effect. Danazol (29%) and MPA (12%) decreased the apolipoprotein A-1 levels significantly. The decrease caused by danazol was significantly greater. Danazol also significantly decreased the apolipoprotein A-2 levels (12%) and significantly increased the apolipoprotein B levels (17%), whereas MPA had no significant effects on them. Three months after the end of medication, all values were at the pretreatment levels. The circulating cholesterol, triglyceride, and very low-density lipoprotein concentrations remained unchanged during both treatments. Danazol and high-dose MPA induced a similar significant regression of peritoneal endometriotic implants in relation to placebo. Our present results, showing that danazol, to a greater extent than high-dose MPA, is associated with changes in lipoprotein metabolism that expose the individual to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, suggest that high-dose MPA is preferable to danazol in the long-term treatment of endometriosis. PMID- 2526033 TI - Carbohydrate metabolism in HT29 colon cancer cells cultured in a glucose free medium supplemented with inosine. AB - 1. Carbohydrate metabolism was studied in HT29 human colon cancer cells cultured in a glucose free medium supplemented with 2.8 mM inosine (HT29ino cells) in comparison with standard HT29 cells grown in the permanent presence of glucose (HT29Glc + cells) and with HT29Glc- cells which are adapted to grow permanently without glucose. 2. Inosine allows the standard cells to grow when glucose is lacking but surprisingly stops the growth of HT29Glc- cells. 3 mercaptopicolinate, an inhibitor of PEP-carboxykinase, does not hinder HT29ino cells to grow, which shows that gluconeogenesis from aspartate or pyruvate is not essential. It suggests that enough carbohydrate is supplied by the ribose moiety of inosine. 3. While standard HT29Glc + cells are highly glycolytic, it is not the case of HT29ino or HT29Glc- cells when glucose is given for few hours. When glucose is present for 24 hr or more, glycolytic rate increases in HT29ino cells and glycogen accumulates. 4. It is found that the pattern of enzymes activities related to carbohydrate metabolism in HT29ino cells is closer to that of HT29Glc + cells rather than to that of HT29Glc- cells. However, phosphofructokinase-1 activity, measured with saturating concentration of Fru-2,6-diP, is significantly lower in HT29ino cells. 5. Binding rate of hexokinase to mitochondria is similar in the three cell-lines. However, in HT29Glc- cells, bound hexokinase easily utilizes ATP generated by the mitochondria. By contrast, in HT29Glc+ and HT29ino cells, bound hexokinase is much more active with exogenous ATP, suggesting a functional defect in the mitochondria from these two latter cells. PMID- 2526032 TI - The effect of gonadotropin suppression on the induction of ovulation in premature ovarian failure patients. AB - Ovulation induction in patients with hypergonadotropic premature ovarian failure is rarely successful. The authors have attempted to reproduce the results of recent case reports that suggest that ovulation and pregnancy can be successfully achieved when estrogen therapy precedes or coincides with ovarian stimulation with human menopausal gonadotropins (hMG). Fourteen patients with idiopathic premature ovarian failure underwent gonadotropin suppression and attempted ovulation induction with at least one of three regimens, which were as follows: 1) Group A: estrogen-induced suppression followed by hMG stimulation (n = 4). 2) Group B: estrogen-induced suppression followed by hMG stimulation with concomitant estrogen therapy (n = 10). 3) Group C: gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist-induced gonadotropin suppression followed by concomitant hMG stimulation (n = 6). Despite complete gonadotropin suppression and high-dose hMG therapy in all three groups, ovulation occurred in only a single patient in group C. Pregnancy did not ensue. These data fail to corroborate previous case reports. PMID- 2526034 TI - Study of the N-glycoprotein biosynthesis through dolichol intermediates in the mitochondrial membranes. AB - 1. In the mitochondria, the biosynthesis of N-glycoprotein products, through the dolichol intermediates pathway, appears in the outer and in the inner membranes. 2. The biosynthesis of dolichol-pyrophosphoryl-N-acetyl-glucosamine, dolichol pyrophosphoryl-di-N-acetylchitobiose, dolichol-phosphoryl-glucose and dolichol phosphoryl-mannose is effective in both membranes. 3. The lipid-linked oligosaccharides biosynthesized in both membranes contain high mannose-type oligosaccharides ranging in size from Man9-GlcNac2 to Man4-GlcNac2. 4. The assembly of the dolichol-pyrophosphoryl-oligosaccharides on the trimannosidic core begins by the elongation of the alpha-1,3 mannose branch in the outer membrane and of the alpha-1,6 mannose branch in the inner membrane. PMID- 2526035 TI - The specific binding activities of human urinary radioiodinated colony stimulating factor-1 to various human tissue cells. AB - 1. Colony-stimulating factor (CSF-1) was isolated from a large volume of fresh normal human urine by 5 steps of purification and enrichment. 2. The purification factor is 100,000 fold and the purified compound exhibits a 2.16 x 10(7) U/mg of protein sp. act. 3. The isolated CSF-1 is a sialoglycoprotein with 41.5% of carbohydrate. The almost complete removal of this carbohydrate moiety (up to 91%) was achieved by incubation with trifluoromethane sulfonic acid. 4. The deglycosylated CSF-1 (DG-CSF-1) possesses an apparent Mr 38,000 compared to native CSF-1 with an initial Mr 57,000 (Goa et al., 1988). 5. The features of the interaction of radio-iodinated [125I]CSF-1 with single cell suspensions from various human tissues (bone marrow, spleen, blood, peritoneal cavity, alveolar lavage, lymph node and thymus), were studied. 6. The binding activity of peritoneal macrophages was the highest among the cells examined and erythrocytes, thymus and blood granulocytes showed no CSF-1 binding. 7. On incubation with [125I]CSF-1 at 0 degrees C, cellular binding of [125I]CSF-1 reached a stable maximum within 16 hr. This is in contrast to the association behaviour at higher temperature. 8. At 37 degrees C, cellular associated [125I]CSF-1 levels reached, within 90 min, an unstable maximum which was up to 10 times less than that occurring under the same conditions at 0 degree C. From the Scatchard plot analysis, we obtained the affinity constant and the number of receptor(s). 9. The binding site is sensitive to trypsin. 10. The receptor alone, (labelled by cross linking to [125I]CSF-1 with di-succinylimidyl-suberate), is a polypeptide with an approx. Mr 110,000. 11. Our results showed that the receptor of CSF-1 is a tyrosin-kinase. PMID- 2526036 TI - Ethylidene glucose-substituted new analogue of streptozotocin cannot induce diabetes: study on the basis of structure and activity relationship. AB - 4,6-O-Ethylidene glucose (ethylidene glucose), a specific inhibitor at the outer surface of a glucose transporter in the cell membranes, substituted analogue of streptozotocin was newly synthesized. This compound did not induce diabetes in rats and also did not show cytotoxic effect on pancreatic beta cells of neonatal rats in a monolayer culture system. The reasons why such a molecule was designed and why it showed no biological effects are discussed on the basis of a structure activity relationship. Our results afford positive evidence for the presence of a glucose transport system or a glucose transporter on pancreatic beta cells and its involvement in the action of streptozotocin on beta cells. PMID- 2526037 TI - Parvalbumin in mouse muscle in vivo and in vitro. AB - Parvalbumin is a cytosolic calcium-binding protein found in adult fast-twitch mammalian muscle. Using an antibody to paravalbumin, we have shown that its distribution in adult mouse muscles is associated with certain fibre types. It is absent from slow-twitch type 1 fibres, is absent or at low levels in fast-twitch type 2A fibres, but is present at moderate or high levels in fast-twitch type 2B fibres. When adult mouse muscle is cultured with embryonic mouse spinal cord, the regenerated fibres become innervated, express the adult fast isoform of myosin heavy chain and appear histochemically as fast-twitch fibres. We therefore investigated whether these apparently mature fibres also contained parvalbumin. Parvalbumin was not found in any fibres of twenty mature cultures, suggesting that neurotrophic activity in the absence of specific adult nerve activity patterns was insufficient to cause the expression of parvalbumin in the cultures. PMID- 2526039 TI - [Immunophenotyping of lymphoreticular cells in the human decidua]. AB - The endometrial stroma is transformed into decidua by an adequate hormonal stimulus or by pregnancy, the endometrial stroma is transformed into decidua. There is increasing evidence, that the decidua has a central functional relevance for the survival of the mammalian embryo in an immunological competent host. In this study, the decidua of 10 patients were examined after therapeutic abortion in the 8th-10th week of pregnancy. Various monoclonal antibodies were used for immunophenotyping of lymphoreticular cells. Most intradecidual lymphoreticular cells could be identified as Ki-M6+ and Ki-M8+ macrophages, which also expressed HLA-DR (class-II) antigens. This finding is underlined by the fact, that Tu-35+ cells occurred in comparable numbers as macrophages and B-lymphocytes were virtually absent from the decidua. Next in frequency were OKT3-positive T lymphocytes. Most of the lymphoid cells were detected by monoclonal antibody OKT8 (suppressor/cytotoxic lymphocytes) while OKT4+ helper/inducer cells occurred only in low numbers. Though definite conclusions in the cells' functional properties cannot be drawn from an immunohistological study, our findings might be regarded as a basis to explain the tolerance of the embryo in this apparently privileged immunological site. PMID- 2526038 TI - Plasma levels of atrial natriuretic peptide in patients with liver cirrhosis and its relation to ascites and renal function. AB - Plasma immunoreactive alpha-human atrial natriuretic polypeptide (Ir-alpha-hANP) was measured by radioimmunoassay in 21 cirrhotics and 10 normal subjects. Average of Ir-alpha-hANP level in cirrhotics was significantly higher than in normal subjects (125.8 +/- 79.6 versus 28.7 +/- 12.2 pg/ml, P less than 0.001). In cirrhotics without ascites, Ir-alpha-hANP levels were positively correlated with creatinine clearance (Ccr) and urinary sodium excretion, suggesting that alpha hANP was closely related to renal circulation and sodium homeostasis. On the contrary, in cirrhotics with ascites Ir-alpha-hANP levels were negatively correlated with Ccr. Urinary sodium excretion in cirrhotics with ascites and Ccr more than 50 ml/min was positively correlated with Ir-alpha-hANP levels. However, cirrhotics with ascites and Ccr less than 50 ml/min excreted little sodium in spite of high Ir-alpha-hANP levels. On the basis of the Ir-alpha-hANP before and after treatment of ascites, cirrhotics with ascites were subdivided into 2 groups. In group I Ir-alpha-hANP decreased from high values and in group II it was further elevated from slightly high values by treatment. The difference in renal function and plasma volume may account for the difference in Ir-alpha-hANP changes in the 2 groups. PMID- 2526040 TI - [Autospecific antileukemia cytotoxic lymphocytes induced by interleukin-2 and their use for elimination of leukemic cells from human bone marrow in vitro]. AB - The possibility of production of cytotoxic antileukemic lymphocytes (CTL) was studied in a mixed culture of lymphocytes and autologous leukemic cells of patients with varying types of acute leukemia. It has been shown that CTL can be induced only in the presence of exogenous preparations of lymphocytic interleukin 2. CTL can be reproduced in vitro in amounts sufficient for the conduction of immunotherapy. Four-hour incubation in vitro of the bone marrow containing leukemic cells with antileukemic CTL permits the bone marrow to be completely free of leukemic cells, and to preserve hemopoietic precursor cells (CFE-GM). PMID- 2526041 TI - [Taxonomic analysis of the distribution of peripheral blood indicators in workers in chemical plants and automobile transport]. AB - Certain occupational groups demonstrate some deviations in the peripheral blood parameters which can be regarded as a multi-component hematological trait for selection of the group to be placed under observation. PMID- 2526042 TI - Dopamine inhibition of gonadotropin and alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone release in vitro from the pituitary of the goldfish (Carassius auratus). AB - The purpose of the present investigation was to examine the receptor specificity of dopamine inhibition of gonadotropin (GtH) and alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) release from the goldfish (Carassius auratus) pituitary in vitro. Pars distalis (PD) and neurointermediate lobe (NIL) fragments of the goldfish pituitary were superfused in vitro under various experimental paradigms; eluate from PD and NIL fragments was analyzed for (GtH) and (alpha-MSH), respectively. Spontaneous GtH release from PD fragments was relatively constant over 6 hr; continuous superfusion with dopamine reversibly inhibited spontaneous GtH release with an estimated ED50 of 10(-4.4) M. Domperidone, a specific D-2 receptor antagonist, reversed the inhibitory action of dopamine and increased spontaneous GtH release. Acute treatment of PD fragments with salmon GnRH (sGnRH) stimulated GtH release; dopamine inhibited GtH release from similarly treated fragments with an ED50 of 10(-7.5) M. The spontaneous release of alpha-MSH from NIL fragments was relatively constant over 6 hr; continuous superfusion with dopamine reversibly inhibited this release with an ED50 of 10(-7.2) M. Acute treatment of NIL fragments with thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) caused acute dose-related increases in alpha-MSH release with an ED50 of 10(-8.2) M; dopamine reversibly inhibited alpha-MSH release from similarly treated fragments with an ED50 of 10(-7.7) M. Both stereoisomers of apomorphine, a dopamine agonist, inhibited GtH release from PD fragments treated with sGnRH; in contrast, alpha MSH release from NIL fragments treated with TRH was stereospecifically inhibited by (-)-apomorphine, but not by (+)-apomorphine. Domperidone reversed (ED50 = 10( 6.6) M) dopamine (10(-6.3) M) inhibition of GtH release from PD fragments treated with sGnRH. In NIL fragments, the inhibitory action of dopamine (10(-6.3) M) was reversed by domperidone (ED50 = 10(-5.5) M), which restored the acute alpha-MSH release response to TRH. These results suggest the involvement of a low-affinity dopamine/neuroleptic receptor in dopamine inhibition of GtH and alpha-MSH release from the pituitary of the goldfish. PMID- 2526043 TI - Two kinds of "recombination nodules" in Neurospora crassa. AB - Two morphological types of recombination nodules, termed early and late, are recognized in Neurospora crassa. Eighty nuclei at different substages were used to determine numbers of nodules per nucleus, distribution of nodules along the nucleolus-organizing chromosome, and distribution of nodules among the two largest chromosomes. Early nodules appear at the synaptonemal complex at early zygotene and increase in number during zygotene until a dramatic reduction occurs at zygotene-pachytene transition. Thereafter early nodules are steadily eliminated until they disappear by diplotene. Late nodules are also present during zygotene. Their number doubles at the zygotene-pachytene transition and stays at this level until diplotene. The total number of nodules is rather constant through zygotene and pachytene. Distribution of bivalents with 0, 1, 2, etc. nodules follows a Poisson distribution at zygotene, but not at pachytene, where variance is less than the mean, indicating positive interference. Nodules are distributed nonrandomly along the nucleolus-organizer bivalent. The pattern differs slightly in nuclei of different origin. Nuclei with unusual synaptonemal complexes sustain normal levels of recombination by having the same amount of nodules as normal nuclei. In abnormal nuclei nodules are preferentially associated with normal segments. It is proposed that early nodules do not participate in any form of recombination but have a role in finding an appropriate site for a crossing-over event. Morphological change to the late type indicates that the site has been reached and the exchange event can be mediated by the late nodule. PMID- 2526045 TI - Cloning and expression of a human muscle phosphofructokinase cDNA. AB - The nucleotide sequence of a 2.86-kb cDNA clone containing the complete human muscle phosphofructokinase (PFK) protein-coding region was determined. It comprises 76 bp of 5'-untranslated sequence, 2340 bp encoding human muscle PFK polypeptide, and 399 bp of 3'-untranslated sequence plus a poly(A) tract. A retroviral vector was utilized to express the product of this coding sequence in mouse fibroblasts. The PFK-coding cDNA was shown to code for an enzymatically active polypeptide by immunoprecipitation analysis and DEAE-Sephadex A-25 chromatography. PMID- 2526044 TI - Human 6-phosphofructo-1-kinase gene has an additional intron upstream of start codon. AB - A 6-phosphofructo-1-kinase-coding gene (pfk) has been purified from a human genomic library cloned in the lambda EMBL4 phage vector. This clone contains the nontranslated 5' flanking region of the human muscle pfk gene. Comparison of the nucleotide sequence determined by us with that of the human muscle pfk cDNA [Nakajima et al., FEBS Lett. 223 (1987) 113-116] indicates the presence of an additional intron extending from nucleotide (nt) -97 to -9 upstream of the ATG start codon. Furthermore, the human muscle pfk gene is more AT-rich than the rabbit gene. The available sequence of the two cDNAs shows 256 nt differences. Surprisingly, 71% of these sites are A's and T's in the human cDNA and C's and G's in the rabbit gene. PMID- 2526046 TI - [Detection of groups at higher risk of developing immunologic pathology during mass screening of the population]. PMID- 2526048 TI - [Possibility of using immunologic indicators in evaluating the effect of pesticides on the body]. AB - The modern problem of pesticide-related pathogenic body effect has been studied from different points of view. However, some medical aspects of pesticide-induced diseases, primarily their effect on the immune status, remain insufficiently explored. The study is designed to analyze pesticide effect on basic indicators of humoral and cellular immune factors and also to develop a new principle for assessing their exposure according to the degree of immune changes in those exposed to pesticides. Proceeding from the study results it is possible to conclude that under long-term exposure to pesticide microdoses the human body undergoes complex changes: there develops autoimmunization accompanied by the manifestation of antitissue autoantibodies, reduction of serum complement activity, relative content of T-lymphocytes and elevation of the level of B lymphocytes. Toxicant-related body sensitization and decline in immuno-resistance can serve as the main cause for the deterioration of health status of the residents of the rural areas characterized by higher chemical exposure. PMID- 2526047 TI - [Immunologic status of children living in a region with an increased level of nitrates in the drinking water]. AB - Practically healthy schoolchildren living in the district with a high content of nitrates in drinking water experienced distinct quantitative and functional changes of immune indicators: violation of the ratio of immunoregulatory lymphocyte subpopulations, the high level of spontaneous T-lymphocyte blastogenesis, IgE-hyperglobulinemia. The above changes of the immune system could indicate both body sensitization and its desadaptation under unfavourable conditions. PMID- 2526049 TI - [Medico-biological criteria of the evaluation of air quality at the site of microbiological synthesis plants]. AB - The efficacy of environmental protection in the areas of location of protein synthesis microbiologic plants was analyzed. It was established that under the conditions of observance of a technological regime and the stability of the gas cleaning systems for industrial affluents the operation of the plants caused no air pollution of residential districts by fungi producers and protein dust of the finished product. The study revealed the absence of detrimental health effect of microbiologic products. The proposed set of biomedical indicators can be recommended for monitoring air quality in the area of location of microbiologic plants. PMID- 2526050 TI - [Methods of comparative evaluation of allergenic activity of fungi of the genus Candida]. PMID- 2526051 TI - [Physiologic, hygienic and pedagogic aspects of the use of computers in the process of improving the qualifications of specialists in vocational training]. PMID- 2526052 TI - [Hygienic aspects of motor activity and the quality of nutrition in 5- to 7-year old children from children's preschool institutions]. AB - The data on the effect of locomotor activity on daily energy losses of inmates of preschool children's homes are presented. Caloric value of food ration and the degree of its adequacy to children's locomotor activity are hygienically assessed. It is established that additional lessons of swimming and ryhthmics in winter increase general daily energy losses by 5.3-8.8%. For the purpose of providing the nutrition compensating the energy losses and elevation of locomotor activity it is recommended to spend not less than 5 hours a week on physical training at preschool Children's homes. PMID- 2526053 TI - [Levels of internal irradiation of the population of the RSFSR by natural alpha emitters]. AB - The values of regional mean concentrations of natural radionuclides in the teeth samples of the RSFSR residents vary within 130-203 mBk/kg for 238U, 174-490 mBk/kg for 226Ra, 1.8-3.4 Bk/kg for 210Pb, 26-56 mBk/kg for 232Th, 50-150 mBk/kg for 228Th. The mean values of 238U in osseous tissue and teeth are similar and equal 120 +/- 35 and 112 +/- 38 mBk/kg, respectively. Radioactive balance between 228Th and 232Th in osseous tissue is absent. The ratio of the concentration of 228Th/232Th is on the average equal to 2.4 +/- 0.9 and of 220Th/832Th doesn't exceed 1.3. The distribution of regional mean concentrations of radionuclides of uranium and thorium series complies with standard distribution. An annual effective equivalent internal dose obtained because of natural alpha-emitters has been calculated for the population of the RSFSR. PMID- 2526054 TI - [Hygienic evaluation of chemical industry equipment placed at open sites]. AB - Technical and design aspects of the arrangement of the equipment used in chemical production of nitrogen substances may cause pollution of workplace air and contamination of atmospheric air and soil of the sanitary and protective zones. Their concentration grows during repair works and may exceed MACs. In cold periods of the year the combined effect of ammonia, nitrogen dioxide and low temperature results in the decrease of olfactory sensitivity and nonspecific immunologic reactivity, an elevation of tension of the regulatory mechanisms and temporary disability rates. PMID- 2526055 TI - [Experience with an experimental device "Biogas-301 C" in recycling waste from swine-breeding farms using a method of anaerobic fermentation]. PMID- 2526056 TI - [Hygienic evaluation of students' training at a light industry vocational school]. PMID- 2526057 TI - [Working conditions at the final stages in the production of water-soluble vitamins]. PMID- 2526058 TI - [Sanitary and bacteriologic evaluation of Black Sea mussels]. PMID- 2526059 TI - [Chronic gastritis in patients with methylmethacrylate poisoning]. AB - 70 patients with chronic gastritis induced by occupational intoxication by methylmetacrylate (MMA) were examined in the clinic, their stomach activity was studied 3-5 and more years following the removal from MMA exposure. Characteristics of the development of the stomach disease were specified by the duration of occupational exposure to MMA, the time following the cessation of work under the conditions of MMA exposure, and marked neurologic changes. Chronic gastritis was accompanied by an allied condition, gradual decrease of acidity under secure enzyme-producing capacity of gastric glands. Morphologic changes in the stomach caused severe disorders, such as atrophic and erosive gastritis, pretumor stomach diseases. Medical supervision of the groups at risk of antacid gastritis and oncologic diseases was recommended. PMID- 2526060 TI - [Comparative evaluation of regulated and non-regulated periods of work and rest in a high-temperature microclimate in the glass industry]. AB - During warm periods of the year under unregulated work regimen the thermal state of the workers of glass manufacturing hot shops was regarded as discomfort. Under regulated work regimen the indices of workers' thermal state and hemodynamics were stabilized at a lower level. The dynamics of changes of the central nervous neuromuscular systems was also more favourable compared to the unregulated regimen. It was considered advisable to restrict the time of continuous stay at the workplace with heating microclimate for those engaged into work of mean intensity by 48 min. It was suggested to supply the workplace with the air with adequate microclimatic parameters and to organize health and psychophysiologic relief rooms. PMID- 2526061 TI - [Hygienic evaluation of the work capacity of workers retiring from chemical nitrogen production plants]. AB - The workers engaged in modern chemical nitrogen production before their retirement on the privileged basis because of noxious working conditions experienced the state of stress and overstress of the regulatory mechanisms, decrease of muscular and mental working capacity both at the initial stage and during the work shift, increase of chronic morbidity and temporary disability rates. These indicators were not identical in groups with different working conditions and sex structure. Among machine operators the major part of males before retirement compared to females maintained a more satisfactory level of work capacity. Disease rates and the degree of decrease of functional body capacities were higher in male metal workers in comparison with machine operators. PMID- 2526062 TI - [Microelement composition of the hair of workers in the ceramic paint industry]. AB - By means of atomic absorption spectrophotometry, the neutron-activation analysis and chemicospectral procedure the content of 33 trace elements in the hair samples of 48 workers of various professions at the shop of ceramic paints was analyzed. Elevated cadmium and lead concentrations were identified in the air. Increased concentrations of lead, cadmium, tellurium, arsenic, chromium, cobalt, antimony, silver, vanadium, manganese, selenium, aluminum, titanium were also identified in workers' hair. PMID- 2526063 TI - [Hygienic characteristics of agricultural dust]. AB - It was found out that soil and grain dust collected from agrochemically treated areas in comparison with native dust contained higher amount of fertilizers' elements, chlororganic pesticides and heavy metals. Their amount depended on the soil and culture type, the quantity of atmospheric sediments during the vegetation period, etc. Cumulation factor of heavy metals and pesticides for agricultural dust exceeded 1. The importance of using the obtained data in dust standardization was pointed out. PMID- 2526064 TI - [Hygienic evaluation of the combined effects of ammonia and low temperatures on chemical industry workers]. AB - Workers servicing the equipment at chemical plants' open sites and exposed to short-duration combined effect of ammonia and low temperature had higher rates of temporary disability in connection with diseases of the respiratory, skin and subcutaneous, cardiovascular and osteomuscular systems. They were evidently caused by regulatory mechanism's strain, decrease of nonspecific immunologic resistance and olfactory sensitivity, bronchospasmic effects. PMID- 2526065 TI - [Use of preventive reflexotherapy in workers at an electrode-manufacturing plant]. AB - Reflexoprevention was carried out in 5 workers engaged in electrode production and exposed to such occupational factors as high gas and dust loading, heating microclimate, significant physical stress at workplace. Electropuncture was carried out by means of an electrostimulator EPB-50-01. The workers were exposed only to heating microclimate and physical load. Positive effect of reflexoprevention was confirmed. PMID- 2526066 TI - [Basic principles of mass screening of patients with asbestosis]. AB - Complex hygienic, clinical and epidemiologic studies were carried out at 2 enterprises producing asbestos-technical products. It was established that the workers engaged in the production of such products were exposed to relatively low levels of asbestos-containing dust. The course, complications and outcome of asbestos-associated fibrosis were studied in 110 patients. The study revealed that asbestosis was characterized by its slowly progressing development. Asbestosis complications included lung tuberculosis, chronic intersticial pneumonia, and lung cancer. Proceesing from the epidemiologic survey higher risk of malignant neoplasms of the lungs was established in patients with asbestosis in comparison with those exposed to asbestos-associated fibrosis were studied in 110 patients. The study revealed that asbestosis was characterized by its slowly progressing development. Asbestosis complications included lung tuberculosis, chronic intersticial pneumonia, and lung cancer. Processing from the epidemiologic survey higher risk of malignant neoplasms of the lungs was established in patients with asbestosis in comparison with those exposed to asbestos-containing dust but having no occupational disease. The study findings were used for the substantiation of dispensarization principles for patients with asbestosis. The number of follow-up, laboratory and other examinations along with basic curative and preventive measures were pointed out. PMID- 2526067 TI - [Status of visual function in persons working at metal-rolling hot shops of a metallurgic combine]. PMID- 2526068 TI - Oxidative DNA sugar damage by targeted antibiotic free radicals. PMID- 2526069 TI - [Pain attacks caused by lumbo-ischialgia. Changes in the intervertebral disk tissue--muscle relaxation and/or operation]. PMID- 2526070 TI - Removal of troponin C from natural actomyosin of rabbit skeletal muscle by CDTA. AB - CDTA-treatment of rabbit skeletal natural actomyosin resulted in the complete removal of troponin C and the abolishment of Ca2+-activated ATPase activity. The addition of troponin C restored the Ca2+-activated ATPase activity to almost the same extent as that of the intact natural actomyosin. These finding are consistent with those of previous studies on the skeletal and cardiac myofibrils. PMID- 2526071 TI - Chronic and acute volume expansion in normal man: effect on atrial diameter and plasma atrial natriuretic peptide. AB - Plasma levels of immunoreactive alpha human atrial natriuretic peptide (IR-ANP) and left atrial diameter were measured in 6 normal subjects before and after 6 days of sodium loading using salt supplements and 9-alpha-fluorohydrocortisone. During chronic sodium loading, which increased mean body weight by 1.5 kg and markedly reduced plasma renin and aldosterone levels, plasma IR-ANP increased from 21 +/- 3 to 36 +/- 7 pmol/l (P less than 0.02). Increase in atrial diameter correlated with gains in body weight (r = 0.93, P less than 0.01) but not with increase in plasma IR-ANP. After chronic sodium loading for 6 days, further volume expansion (2 litres of saline infused over 2 hours) significantly increased left atrial diameter but did not affect plasma IR-ANP levels. We conclude that chronic sodium loads increase plasma IR-ANP. However, the failure of further acute atrial distension to increase hormone levels suggests that factors in addition to atrial stretch are important in regulating atrial peptide secretion in man. PMID- 2526072 TI - Blunted natriuretic response and low blood pressure after atrial natriuretic factor in early cirrhosis. AB - We compared the natriuretic response to a standard dose of atrial natriuretic factor in nine patients with early cirrhosis (no ascites or edema) with the response in normal subjects displaying a range of baseline sodium excretions due to different sodium intakes (20 mmoles per day, n = 9; 100 mmoles per day, n = 9, and 200 mmoles per day, n = 9). In these normal subjects, sodium output rose, in the same order, from 49 +/- 12 to 177 +/- 26, from 116 +/- 21 to 365 +/- 106 and from 228 +/- 29 to 901 +/- 85 mumoles per min in the first 20 min after 100 micrograms atrial natriuretic factor (human atrial natriuretic factor 99-126). Thus, irrespective of basal excretion, natriuresis rose by at least 2-fold. In the cirrhotic patients, natriuresis rose from 173 +/- 42 to 305 +/- 77 mumoles per min, that is by hardly 1-fold, significantly less than in the normal subjects (p less than 0.01). Renal function studies indicated that atrial natriuretic factor caused less rise in glomerular filtration rate and in fractional sodium excretion. Atrial natriuretic factor induced a fall in blood pressure only in the cirrhotic group, from 130 +/- 4/81 +/- 2 to 108 +/- 4/68 +/- 3 mmHg (p less than 0.001). Plasma atrial natriuretic factor was not low in the cirrhotic patients. Although these data are compatible with a primary disturbance of sodium excretion in early cirrhosis without ascites, such an explanation is complicated by the concomitant drop in blood pressure after atrial natriuretic factor.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526073 TI - Are there any characteristic changes in the plasma concentration of atrial natriuretic factor in liver cirrhosis? PMID- 2526074 TI - Lipocortin-1 immunoreactivity in central and peripheral nervous system glial tumors. AB - We examined the cellular distribution of lipocortin-1 (L-1), a major physiologic substrate for the epidermal growth factor receptor/kinase, in 122 central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS) neoplasms using the peroxidase antiperoxidase technique with a polyclonal antibody specific for L-1. Extensive L 1 immunoreactivity was demonstrated in many CNS tumors; in 11 of 21 glioblastoma multiformes, in five of 12 anaplastic astrocytomas, and in five of 14 astrocytomas. Significant numbers of immunoreactive ependymocytes or astrocytes were also seen in six of 13 ependymomas. In contrast, no immunostaining was detected in the oligodendrocytes in any of ten oligodendrogliomas. PNS tumors, found in two of five malignant nerve sheath tumors, 13 of 15 schwannomas, 13 of 17 neurofibromas, and 14 of 15 traumatic neuromas, also contained considerable L 1 immunoreactivity in Schwann cells or mast cells. These findings raise the possibility that L-1 may participate in the proliferation or subsequent differentiation of neoplastic astrocytes, ependymocytes, and Schwann cells. PMID- 2526075 TI - Development of a monoclonal antibody specific for the gamma chain of the T-cell antigen receptor using an open reading frame expression vector. AB - To develop an anti-framework monoclonal antibody (mab) specific for the gamma (gamma)-chain of the T-cell antigen receptor (TCR), we expressed a part of the constant region of the gamma-chain (C gamma 2 gene segment) in E. coli using the pWR590 vector. This plasmid contains the E. coli lac promoter, operator, a truncated beta-galactosidase (beta-gal) gene (coding for the first 590 of the 1,007 amino acids of the beta-gal) and a polylinker region (at the 3' end of the beta-gal) containing nine restriction sites. These can be cleaved by any one of eight common restriction enzymes, permitting the introduction of the DNA fragment of interest. We employed the pT gamma 1 gamma-chain cDNA probe, which like the vast majority of the gamma-chain specific probes is aberrant and contains an in frame stop codon at the junction of V and J regions. Computer analysis of the pT gamma 1 sequence revealed several MaeIII restriction sites that could result in a number of fragments. One of these fragments consisted of 245 base pairs (nucleotides 404-648) and contained most of the CI exon of the C gamma 2. Successful insertion of this fragment to the pWR590 vector was confirmed using restriction enzyme analysis. The C gamma insert was 12% of the construct. Expression of the pWR590-HpT gamma 1 recombinant plasmid in E. coli followed by SDS-PAGE analysis revealed a hybrid protein with a molecular weight of 85 kd which constituted at least 25% of the total E. coli insoluble protein. In contrast, cells transformed with the control pWR590 vector without insert expressed a 78 kd polypeptide chain. We developed several mabs against the pWR590 HpT gamma 1 hybrid protein by fusing spleen lymphocytes from BALB/c mice immunized with the pWR590-HpT gamma 1 protein, with cells of the NS1 mouse myeloma cell line. Screening of the mabs was carried out by ELISA against the pWR590-HpT gamma 1 hybrid protein and the control pWR590 beta-gal protein (beta gal 590), derived by expressing in E. coli the pWR590 vector without gamma-chain insert. Two groups of mabs were obtained, those reacting with the pWR590-HpT gamma 1 hybrid protein only and those reacting with both the hybrid and the control beta-gal 590 proteins. The specificity of these mabs was further studied by Western blotting with similar results.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2526076 TI - Effect of treatment on systolic time intervals in systemic arterial hypertension. AB - Twenty-six hypertensive patients and 25 control subjects were studied, and their systolic time intervals (STI) were measured. It was found that an alteration in STI, signifying left ventricular dysfunction, sets in most of the hypertensives earlier than any evidence of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) by clinical, radiological or electrocardiographic criteria. The parameters affected are the PEP interval which shows prolongation and PEP/LVET ratio which is increased. After treatment, the left ventricular performance was found to improve in those who did not reveal evidence of LVH. Thus, STI may be a sensitive indicator of early left ventricular dysfunction in hypertensives and a useful guide to assess improvement after treatment at a stage when other non-invasive methods are not so useful. PMID- 2526078 TI - Myelination in the jimpy mouse in the absence of proteolipid protein. AB - A point mutation in the gene for proteolipid protein (PLP) has been suggested to account for the dysmyelination seen in the jimpy mouse mutant. Despite the absence of PLP, the major integral membrane protein of central nervous system (CNS) myelin, this study shows that there are many scattered myelinated fibers present in the spinal cord of this murine mutant which are immunocytochemically positive for myelin basic protein (MBP), yet negative for PLP. This lack of PLP results in an abnormal compaction of the extracellular leaflets of the myelin sheath and the formation of an abnormal intraperiod line. These results are similar to those seen in another X-linked myelin mutant, the myelin-deficient rat (Duncan et al.: Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A., 84:6287-6291, 1987), and show that a multilamellar membrane can be formed in the absence of its major integral membrane protein. PMID- 2526077 TI - Identification of multiple isoforms of the low-affinity human IgG Fc receptor. AB - Two varieties of similar, but structurally distinct, cDNA clones for the human low-affinity receptors for the Fc portion of immunoglobulin G (Fc gamma RII) have been isolated. One type of clone was obtained from human B lymphocytes, and the other from PHA-activated peripheral T cells and monocytes. Transfection of both prototype clones into Cos-7 cells and subsequent specific staining with monoclonal antibodies of the CDw32 group confirmed the identification of the gene products. The nucleotide sequence of the cDNA clone from B lymphocytes contains an open reading frame that encodes a protein of relative mass (Mr) 27,000 with an extracellular domain of 179 amino acids containing three potential N glycosylation sites, a 26 amino acid transmembrane domain, and a 44 amino acid cytoplasmic domain. The clones from peripheral T cells and monocytes both encoded a protein of Mr 31,000 with a 179 amino acid extracellular domain containing two potential N-glycosylation sites and a 26 amino acid transmembrane domain. The two types of clones had similar sequences in their immunoglobulin-like extracellular and transmembrane domain, but differed in their leader sequences and 3'untranslated regions. The most notable difference between the clones was the presence of a distinctive 76 amino acid cytoplasmic domain in those isolated from T cells and monocytes. PMID- 2526079 TI - Oligodendrocytes but not astrocytes express apolipoprotein E after injury of rat optic nerve. AB - Apolipoprotein E (apoE), a lipid-binding glycoprotein involved in transport and metabolism of phospholipids and cholesterol, is synthesized and secreted at elevated rates following transection of mature rat peripheral and central nerves. In the peripheral nervous system (PNS) infiltrating macrophages express apoE during Wallerian degeneration. Following injury of the optic nerve (ON) apoE synthesis is significantly stimulated but the apoE-expressing cells have thus far not been identified. This study used 1 micron and thin cryosections to identify the cellular source of apoE in transected ON. Serial 1 micron frozen sections were stained by avidin-biotin-peroxidase complex immunocytochemistry by using a specific antiserum to apoE and by antibodies that identify different cell types: glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) for astrocytes, 2',3'-cyclic nucleotide-3' phosphodiesterase (CNP) for oligodendrocytes, and ED1 for macrophages. In normal ON both astrocytes and oligodendrocytes were apoE-positive. One week after ON transection oligodendrocytes accounted for the majority of apoE-positive cells, while apoE immunoreactivity had disappeared from astroglial cell bodies and processes. In contrast to the PNS only a few ED1/apoE-positive macrophages were present in ON 7 days after transection. By using immunogold-labeled ultrathin cryosections apoE could be localized in the Golgi apparatus of oligodendrocytes, indicating synthesis by these cells. Our data suggest that oligodendrocyte derived apoE protein may participate in the redistribution of myelin lipids after CNS injury. PMID- 2526080 TI - Astroglia-released neurite growth-inducing activity for embryonic hippocampal neurons is associated with laminin bound in a sulfated complex and free fibronectin. AB - Neurons from embryonic (E18) rat hippocampus were chosen to identify and characterize neurite growth-stimulating proteins accumulating in serum-free conditioned media (CM) obtained from primary or secondary cultures of cerebral astrocytes (less than 5% nonglial cells) using a quantitative cell culture bioassay. CM were fractionated by FPLC on an anion exchange column (Mono Q) and by gel filtration (Superose 6). Column fractions were analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, immunoblotting and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using antibodies to laminin (LN) and fibronectin (FN). The neurite-promoting activity (NPA) was tested by incubating aliquots of the eluted fractions with poly-L-lysine precoated glass coverslips prior to addition of neurons suspended in chemically defined medium. We provide evidence that the NPA in astroglial CM could be assigned mainly to a negatively charged, highly sulfated LN complex consisting predominantly of the B-chains of LN and presumably a sulfated proteoglycan that was sensitive for chondroitinase and to a lower degree to heparinase degradation. In addition, a smaller proportion of the NPA was associated with uncomplexed LN and free FN. FN reached approximately 10 times the concentration of LN in astroglial CM. As revealed by immunofluorescence microscopy, both LN and FN are simultaneously expressed by cultured astrocytes; however, only the production of FN, measured by ELISA, increased during the time astrocytes were in culture, whereas the release of LN remained unchanged. We conclude that, besides the most active LN complex, FN bound to a polycationic matrix is able to induce neurite growth in hippocampal neurons in vitro. PMID- 2526081 TI - Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) from goldfish: its localisation in visual pathway. AB - An intermediate filament fraction, isolated from goldfish brain, contains a prominent protein having a molecular weight of 51 kDa. In normal goldfish visual pathway, this protein is present in tectum and tract, but not in optic nerve. A polyclonal antibody raised to this protein clearly labels ependymal glial profiles in tectum and parallel processes in the tract, whereas optic nerve is unlabelled; Muller fibres in the retina are also labelled. A similar, but less prominent, pattern of staining is observed with antibodies, raised elsewhere, against glial fibrillary acidic protein from human and porcine. These results suggest that the 51 kDa protein is a GFAP, demonstrate the heterogeneity of astrocytes in goldfish visual pathway, and are consistent with the idea that GFAP is well conserved in vertebrate phylogeny. PMID- 2526083 TI - The economics of mental health. PMID- 2526082 TI - Trauma-induced proliferation of astrocytes in the brains of young and aged rats. AB - The time-course and magnitude of astrocyte proliferation following neural trauma was evaluated in young adult (3 months) and mid-aged (16-19 months) male Fischer 344 rats. One to 4 days after a needle wound was made through the cortex and the hippocampus, rats received three intraperitoneal injections of 3H-thymidine at 8 hour intervals and were sacrificed 1 hour after the last injection. For astrocyte quantification, 3H-thymidine autoradiography was combined with immunohistochemical staining for glial fibrillary acidic protein followed by semithin sectioning. In areas of the cortex and hippocampus adjacent to the wound, astrocytes were categorized as unlabeled or labeled with silver grains over the nuclei. Labeling index and numerical density of astrocytes were determined using stereological methods. The results showed that in both young and older rats, astrocyte proliferation is an early glial response to neural trauma, occurring during the first 4 postlesion days and contributing to an increase in astrocyte population. Regional differences in labeling index and numerical density suggest heterogeneity in the proliferative capacity of astrocyte subpopulations in the rat brain. Compared with young animals, older rats demonstrated greater labeling in the cortex but not in the hippocampus. Thus, aging is associated with region-specific increase in astrocyte reactivity to trauma possibly due to increased availability of mitogens or enhanced sensitivity of astrocytes to mitogenic signals. PMID- 2526084 TI - State strategies to restructure psychiatric hospitals: a selective review. AB - All state mental health authorities are restructuring the role of their state psychiatric systems as part of the overall system of specialty psychiatric services. These efforts include shifting funds to community programs, changing the hospital from both a short- and long-term facility to one or the other, and giving community programs more administrative and budgetary authority over the hospitals. This paper presents case studies of five such efforts, selected to illustrate the range of change and the mechanisms for achieving it. Inferences are drawn from these studies and directions for research are suggested. PMID- 2526086 TI - Expanding insurance coverage to alternative types of psychotherapists: demand and substitution effects of direct reimbursement to social workers. AB - When insurance benefits for outpatient psychotherapy are expanded to cover alternative (less expensive) types of providers, lower reimbursements from beneficiaries' use of these providers may offset reimbursement increases attributable to any concomitant increase in demand for services. In this paper, outpatient claims data from Massachusetts Blue Shield for 1979-83 are used to estimate demand and substitution effects of a state mandate of direct reimbursement to social workers, starting April 1, 1982. Empirical results for the first year of the mandate showed that while the percentage of beneficiaries using the benefit did not change from 1981, eligible social workers in the state treated 10% of "new" users of the outpatient benefit and 2% of "continuing" users. While the substitution effect predominated, the particular characteristics of the Massachusetts case limit more general applicability of the results. PMID- 2526085 TI - Use of nonphysician providers in the Medicare program: assessment of The Direct Reimbursement of Clinical Social Workers Demonstration Project. AB - Rising Medicare costs and concern about inadequate access to physician services have prompted interest in extending independent practitioner status to nonphysician providers. This paper reviews the findings from a demonstration project that tested whether recognizing clinical social workers (CSWs) as independent practitioners in the Medicare program would be a cost-effective method to improve access to needed mental health services. The demonstration showed little impact on access and no clear evidence of savings, despite the lower cost of CSW services compared with those of psychiatrists. Differences between CSWs and psychiatrists in treatment patterns and treatment settings, however, suggested that for some patients CSWs might be an appropriate alternative source of care. PMID- 2526087 TI - Employment choices and earnings of social workers: comparing private practice and salaried employment. AB - Direct recognition statutes, such as freedom of choice and vendorship laws, have the potential to increase the number of independent providers of psychotherapy, and thus to increase competition in the market for psychotherapy. These laws increase the economic return to private practice by requiring that third-party payers directly reimburse psychologists and social workers. There has been, however, little empirical investigation of the responsiveness of psychotherapists' employment choices to changes in the economic return to private practice. In this study, a structural model of social workers' earnings and employment choices between private practice and salaried employment is estimated. After correcting for the potential self selection bias, the results suggest that increasing the relative return to private practice does not increase the probability that a social worker will enter private practice. PMID- 2526088 TI - Provider response to Medicare's PPS: reductions in length of stay for psychiatric patients treated in scatter beds. AB - We used Medicare discharge data for the years 1984 and 1985 to analyze reductions in lengths of stay for psychiatric patients treated in general hospitals that did not have specialized psychiatric units. In response to Medicare's Prospective Payment System (PPS), not-for-profit hospitals experienced declines in lengths of stay averaging between 10% and 20% two years after they went onto PPS, while for profit hospitals experienced a somewhat greater decline. Lengths of stay fell most rapidly during the months immediately surrounding the date on which a hospital began to be paid under PPS. This response included an anticipatory effect--hospital lengths of stay began shortening just before PPS payments started. PMID- 2526089 TI - Demand analysis of mental health service use among ethnic subpopulations. AB - This paper estimates demand for mental health services by blacks, Hispanics, and whites, as well as males and females, using a three-part regression model. It examines the probability of mental health use and the level of outpatient and inpatient use. The data base is the high option Blue Cross/Blue Shield Federal Employee Health Benefits Plan for the 1979 to 1981 period. All user subpopulations sharing this plan have the same coverage, so differences in demand and utilization are related to ethnic and racial background, age, salary, outpatient visit copayment and market area characteristics, including the supply of psychiatrists. Results show vast differences in demand for care by ethnic, racial, and gender groups with identical insurance coverage. Alternative explanations for the differences are suggested. PMID- 2526090 TI - Analysis of the effect of disproportionately large share of low-income patients on psychiatric costs in general hospitals. AB - This study focuses on the disproportionate share payment adjustment of the Medicare Prospective Payment System and examines the relationship between share of low-income patients and the cost of inpatient psychiatric care. All general hospitals without distinct psychiatric units that treated more than 20 Medicare psychiatric patients in general medical-surgical beds are included in the cost analysis. The difference between official adjustment factors and the estimates of this analysis suggests that in 16% of the large urban disproportionate share hospitals poverty psychiatric cases are systematically underpaid. PMID- 2526091 TI - Cost-effectiveness of intensive clinical and case management compared with an existing system of care. AB - Using controlled experimental methods, this investigation compares treatment outcomes and costs of an intensive clinical and case management program with those of an existing system of care for severely mentally ill clients. The results indicate that after 24 months the treatment group did not improve significantly in psychosocial adjustment and reported life satisfaction, although intermediate changes were apparent. The experimental treatment program did not cost significantly more than the comparison condition, and both groups demonstrated a cost reallocation away from 24-hour and emergency care toward outpatient and case management service. Policy implications and limitations regarding generalizability are discussed. PMID- 2526092 TI - Estimation of offset and income effects on the demand for mental health treatment. AB - An offset (substitution) effect occurs when the use of one treatment reduces levels or costs of alternative treatments. This model considers offsets through the demand for health services and the technology for providing them. Mental health offsets in the provision of ambulatory physician care are analyzed by estimating permanent income, health expenditures, and budget shares, in a three stage process, for the categories Mental Health, Chronic, Mixed, Acute, and Other, using the NMCES database. Tobit estimators are used since many observations have zero expenditures. Ambulatory physician care expenditures are relatively elastic with respect to price and to coinsurance, but less elastic with respect to income. Mental health care is a substitute for Chronic and Other, but not for Mixed and Acute. PMID- 2526093 TI - Measuring comorbidity and overlap in the hospitalization cost for alcohol and drug abuse and mental illness. AB - This paper measures the cost of short-stay hospitalization in 1985 for alcohol and drug abuse and mental illness (ADM). We identify and quantify two measurement problems: comorbidity in which ADM disorders may play a secondary role to other diagnoses and "overlap" in which ADM disorders occur together. Using data from the National Hospital Discharge Survey, we estimate the ADM short-stay hospital costs to total $13.1 billion. Almost four-fifths are costs of care for patients with primary ADM diagnoses and the remaining one-fifth is attributed to ADM comorbidity. About one-fifth of both the ADM discharges and the days of care represent overlap for hospitalized patients. PMID- 2526094 TI - Mental health and the labor force participation of older workers. AB - Over the past 20 years, while mortality rates have dramatically declined, the prevalence of work-related stress has increased. This phenomenon suggests that the population's physical health has improved, but mental health has deteriorated. Concomitantly, fewer older workers are participating in the labor force. Our paper, using data from the Epidemiologic Catchment Area (ECA) program, assesses whether the decline in numbers of older workers is linked to the increasing prevalence of job-related stress. Our results indicate that symptoms of poor mental health are the most important determinants of work behavior. Surprisingly, economic and demographic characteristics appear to have little impact on an individual's labor force participation status. Further research is needed, however, because the ECA data provides insufficient information to accurately assess the relative importance of both mental health and economic factors on the retirement decision. PMID- 2526095 TI - Life-cycle effects of alcoholism on education, earnings, and occupation. AB - In this article we examine the life-cycle effects of alcoholism on human capital formation and labor market outcomes. We attempt empirically to unravel some of the complicated structural relationships among family background, educational attainment, labor force participation, earnings, and current as well as past alcoholism. Access to a new data set allows us to study some of these relationships. The Epidemiological Catchment Area data set contains not only the standard socioeconomic and demographic variables but also information on family background and age of onset of symptoms and current alcoholism. Thus, when estimating models of occupational choice and earnings, we can assess both the indirect and the direct effects of alcoholism. We find that early onset of alcoholism significantly retards educational attainment. PMID- 2526096 TI - The effect of Medicaid policy on mental health and poverty. AB - This paper examines the interrelationships between mental distress, poverty, and Medicaid eligibility policy. This is accomplished by estimating an econometric model of mental health and income. We use data from a community survey to estimate the model. Simulations of the impacts of changes in Medicaid eligibility policy are performed using the model estimates. A central finding is that while there are gains in both mental health status and earnings from changes in Medicaid, the effects on poverty are small because of the design of transfer programs. Suggestions for further research are offered. PMID- 2526097 TI - Combining demand- and supply-side cost sharing: the case of inpatient mental health care. AB - Public and private payers can set the terms of demand-side cost sharing in insurance for patients and supply-side cost sharing in the form of reimbursement for providers. This paper summarizes a model in which health care utilization is affected by both demand- and supply-side cost sharing. The combined effects of these two policies are simulated in an application to inpatient mental health care. Because supply-side cost sharing (as would take place in a prospective payment system) limits cost without imposing financial risk on patients, it is preferred as a policy for restraining cost. I show in the case studied that when supply-side cost sharing is introduced, insurance coverage should improve. PMID- 2526098 TI - In vitro model of Treponema pallidum invasiveness. AB - The purpose of this investigation was to develop an in vitro model with which invasion of tissues by pathogenic Treponema pallidum could be studied. Double sided culture chambers were created by mounting abdominal walls excised from mice between two halves of small dialysis cells. The integrity of tissue barriers was confirmed by dye exclusion. T. pallidum subsp. pallidum, including intrinsically radiolabeled organisms, was introduced into one side of each chamber, and fractions from the other side were evaluated over time by dark-field microscopy and scintillation counting. Tissues were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy and immunologic staining. Motile T. pallidum, but not nonpathogenic, host-indigenous Treponema phagedenis biotype Reiter, was able to pass from one side of the chamber to the other side within 10 h. Up to 12% of the inoculum crossed the chamber within 24 h. Spirochetes were found within tissue in the greatest numbers between 6 and 8 h postinoculation. The murine abdominal wall has epithelium only on the peritoneum side, and results showed that T. pallidum required an epithelial surface on the entry side of the double-chambered cell in order to traverse the tissue barrier. This new in vitro technique may be of value in studying spirochete virulence and host resistance. PMID- 2526100 TI - Plasma concentrations of atrial natriuretic peptide, arginine vasopressin and hormones of the renin-angiotensin system in patients with end-stage renal disease. AB - Plasma concentrations of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), arginine vasopressin (AVP), plasma renin activity (PRA) and aldosterone, were measured before and after 3 h of hemodialysis in 9 patients with end-stage renal disease on maintenance hemodialysis. Hormone concentrations were also determined in the same patients on a separate occasion after 1 h of ultrafiltration (UF). Plasma concentrations of ANP were significantly higher in the patients with ESRD than in a normal reference population and declined after both 1 h and 3 h of hemodialysis. Plasma concentrations of ANP failed to exhibit a significant decline after 1 h of UF. Plasma AVP concentrations were not significantly different after either hemodialysis or UF, while plasma aldosterone concentrations fell with hemodialysis. The decline in plasma aldosterone concentrations paralleled the decrease in dialysis-induced fall in serum potassium concentrations. There was no correlation between the blood pressures, heart rate, interdialytic weight gain and estimated fluid overload and any of the hormones measured except for the plasma renin activity (PRA) which correlated significantly with the systolic blood pressure. The data suggest that ANP may not be a major factor in blood pressure regulation in normotensive patients with ESRD and its elevation in patients with ESRD is most likely due to fluid overload and atrial distention as well as a possible reduction in its metabolic clearance in renal insufficiency. The fall in plasma ANP following hemodialysis is not due to its removal by dialysis but is most likely due to a reduction in ANP production caused by dialysis-induced correction of hypervolemia. PMID- 2526099 TI - Deficiency of interleukin-2 production upon addition of soluble egg antigen to cultures of isolated hepatic granulomas or hepatic granuloma cells from mice infected with Schistosoma japonicum. AB - Schistosoma japonicum-infected C57BL/6 mice show similar dynamics of hepatic granulomatous inflammation and delayed hypersensitivity elicited by soluble egg antigens (SEA) which reach peak levels at 9 weeks of infection and then spontaneously regress. In an attempt to link the level of interleukin 2 (IL-2) production to the spontaneous regression of hepatic granulomatous inflammation, the study determined the dynamics of IL-2 production by SEA-challenged isolated hepatic granulomas (HG) and cells isolated enzymatically from the HG. The production of IL-2 by SEA-stimulated HG or HG cells reached its peak when these preparations from 9-week-infected mice were stimulated and fell thereafter. Some possible mechanisms that might explain the IL-2 deficiency were examined. This deficiency is not due to the in vitro binding of IL-2 by the HG cells of infected mice and is, therefore, due rather to underproduction of IL-2. The deficiency was also not explained by reduced numbers of antigen-presenting cells (macrophages or B cells) or of L3T4+ T lymphocytes. In vitro SEA-induced IL-2 production by HG cells from acutely infected mice was suppressed consistently by Lyt-2+ T cells from the spleens and in the majority of our experiments by Lyt-2+ T cells from the HG of mice infected for 10 weeks. These findings are consistent with the main features of our working hypothesis, but it remains to be proven that in vivo deficiency of lymphokine(s) such as IL-2 is responsible for the spontaneous decrease in granulomatous inflammation and that this lymphokine deficiency is a result of suppression. PMID- 2526101 TI - Etodolac versus diclofenac: double-blind cross-over study in rheumatoid arthritis. AB - A 14-day double-blind clinical study was conducted on 16 patients with clinically active rheumatoid arthritis to compare the effects of etodolac (600 mg daily) and diclofenac (150 mg daily). Admission criteria were: functional impairment between Steinbrocker's classes I to III, Ritchie's index greater than 10 and erythrocyte sedimentation rate greater than 25 mm/h, and finally active involvement of the small joints of the hands. Following a wash-out period of at least two days from their previous non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, trial patients received etodolac or diclofenac for five consecutive days by random allocation; after that, and after another two day wash-out period, all patients were crossed-over to the alternate drug for another five consecutive days. One day before intake and on the last day of each treatment lap, each patient was examined in regard to the circadian grip strength (of the more severely affected hand), Ritchie's index and acute phase reactants; at the end of the second treatment period, subjective drug preference was explored. Grip strength was assessed by the patients themselves with a dynamometer at 08h00 and every two hours thereafter until 20h00. The overall daily value was calculated by measuring the area under curve (AUC) depicting the grip strength profile. Both groups of patients showed significant improvement of the Ritchie's index (p less than 0.01) and grip strength AUC (p less than 0.05), while taking medication, whereas no significant variations were noted in regard to the values of the acute phase parameters both between the two treatment groups, and within each treatment group. At termination, four patients expressed preference for etodolac, eight were in favour of diclofenac, and four gave an indifferent judgement. No statistically significant differences were detected between the two treatment groups; also no adverse events were seen in this short-term study. The results confirm the effectiveness and tolerability of etodolac in the acute stage of rheumatoid arthritis. PMID- 2526102 TI - Clinical pharmacokinetics and tissue penetration of teicoplanin. AB - The pharmacokinetic properties were investigated of teicoplanin, including its penetration into suction blister fluid (SBF), after a single intravenous bolus administration of 600 mg in seven pneumological patients with normal renal and hepatic function. Blood and SBF samples were collected during the 60-hour period drug administration. Teicoplanin was assayed microbiologically and the mean serum concentration at the end of the i.v. injection was 98.7 +/- 16 mg/l falling to 2.3 +/- 0.4 mg/l at 60 h. The antibiotic was rapidly distributed into a fast equilibrating peripheral compartment and, at a lower rate, into a slowly equilibrating peripheral compartment, while the mean elimination half-life (t1/2 beta) was 34.1 +/- 6.8 h. Penetration into the SBF, though slow, was good, reaching a mean peak level of 8.7 +/- 1.7 mg/l at a mean time of 2.1 h, with a penetration index (obtained by percentage ratio of the area under curve in the SBF to that of serum) of 42.9%. PMID- 2526103 TI - The intraocular pressure response of human atrial natriuretic factor in glaucoma. AB - In an open label, single dose study on ten glaucoma patients with bilateral untreated IOP levels exceeding 30 mmHg the effects of 100 micrograms human atrial natriuretic factor (HANF) on IOP, systolic blood pressure, pulse rate and serum electrolytes were investigated. The intravenous application of HANF decreased IOP over more than 8 hrs. The magnitude of IOP reduction in this study was in the range of 4-7 mmHg. There was no significant change in blood pressure, pulse rate or serum electrolytes. The verified, yet still limited efficacy of HANF on IOP in glaucoma warrants further investigations. PMID- 2526104 TI - A study of staffing levels in hospital wards for severely physically disabled patients. AB - This paper reports on an investigation of the workloads of the different grades of nursing staff caring for severely physically disabled patients in a long-term rehabilitation hospital. Results of nurse activity sampling and assessment of patients' severities of disability on three wards are presented in the form of tables and bar-charts. Wide variation of types and severities of patients' disability within and between the three wards was evident. Qualitative trends relating patients' severities of disability to times spent feeding patients, total nursing hours per patient (12-hr) day, and trained/untrained staff ratios were revealed. The question of grade mix is briefly discussed. PMID- 2526105 TI - Thrombolysis of graft occlusion using high dose urokinase. An alternative to surgical treatment? AB - Two cases of acute leg ischemia from unilateral occlusion of an aorto-bifemoral graft, treated with high-dose urokinase intra-arterial infusion, are reported. This therapy allowed identification of the cause of thrombosis, recanalization of the graft and planning of reoperation. Indications for intra-arterial thrombolytic therapy and advantages of urokinase vs streptokinase are discussed. PMID- 2526106 TI - An overexposure in industrial radiography using an 192Ir radionuclide. AB - An industrial radiographer was accidentally exposed to a high dose of ionizing radiation from an 192Ir source during radiography of weldjoints in gas pipelines. Some symptoms of high radiation exposure occurred immediately after the incident. The clinical effect of skin erythema developed within 7 d, leading to progressive tissue deterioration. The dose to the body was estimated to be about 2-3 Gy, and the dose to the fingertips was approximately 24 Gy. PMID- 2526107 TI - Estimation of plasma area under the curve for etanidazole (SR 2508) in toxicity prediction and dose adjustment. AB - The hydrophilic 2-nitroimidazole radiosensitizer etanidazole is currently undergoing clinical evaluation. Although considerably less neurotoxic than misonidazole because of its rapid renal clearance and partial exclusion from the nervous system, total dose is limited by peripheral neuropathy. Monitoring plasma etanidazole concentration in patients to determine the area under the curve (AUC0 infinity) has been proposed as a method of predicting patients at risk, and of providing a quantitative basis for dose reduction in such patients. Successful application of this policy requires accurate assessment of AUC0-infinity. We have analyzed plasma data for 18 patients receiving 2 g/m2 etanidazole to determine the errors introduced in the estimation of AUC0-infinity caused by omitting selected time points from the analysis. A 'baseline' AUC0-infinity value was calculated by integration of the rate equation for the 2-compartment model using data points at 0, 15, and 30 min and 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, and 24 hr after the end of infusion. The mean +/- SD area for AUC0-infinity was 502 +/- 152 micrograms ml-1 h (2.35 +/- 0.71 mM.h). Omitting the zero or the 24 hr time point, the average errors were quite small (2.5% in both cases), but errors of up to 16.4 and 7.3%, respectively, were seen for individual patients. Leaving out both the 8 hr and 12 hr points at the same time gave a similar low average error of 2.9%, with a highest error of 7.3%. Omitting all data points after 4 hr, the mean error was 24.7% and 15 of 18 patients had errors in excess of 10%. In addition, failure to correct for infusion time results in an underestimation of AUC0-infinity averaging 4.5% (range 1.9-8.7%). The choice of sampling times for toxicological monitoring will depend upon the accuracy with which the AUC0-infinity must be known. Including all data points between 0 and 24 hr will minimize errors. Considering the general similarity in the errors introduced by omitting the 8 hr and 12 hr points together compared to those seen with exclusion of the single 24 hr point, the choice between these truncated sampling options would be expected to lie in the relative inconvenience caused to patients and medical staff for the particular dose schedule used. The short sampling schedule (0-4 hr) should not be used. PMID- 2526108 TI - Differential neutralizing effect of tiopronin on the toxicity of neocarzinostatin and SMANCS: a new rescue cancer chemotherapy. AB - The toxic effect and antitumor activity of neocarzinostatin (NCS) and SMANCS [copoly(styrenemaleic acid)-conjugated NCS] were greatly affected by N-(2 mercaptopropionyl)-glycine [tiopronin] both in vitro and in vivo, in cultured HeLa cells and RL male 1 tumor-bearing mice. The cytotoxicity of NCS and SMANCS against HeLa cells was remarkably reduced by the addition of tiopronin during drug treatment. Interestingly, the neutralizing effect of tiopronin on the toxicity of SMANCS was greater than that in the case of NCS. In the continuous presence of 10 mM tiopronin during a 1 h drug treatment, the 50% cell-killing doses of NCS and SMANCS were increased 72 and 208 times as compared to those without tiopronin, respectively, whereas tiopronin itself has no cytotoxicity to HeLa cells up to 100 mM. Furthermore, more effective reduction of the lethal toxicity of SMANCS was observed by the intraperitoneal (ip) administration of tiopronin after ip injection of a lethal dose of SMANCS as compared to the same protocol in the case of NCS in mice. Therapeutic studies on RL male 1 tumor bearing mice revealed that delayed (time lag) ip administration of tiopronin after high-dose SMANCS administration ip was much superior to the combination of NCS with tiopronin, or SMANCS alone. In this time-lag combination chemotherapy of SMANCS with tiopronin, 60% of treated mice survived more than 60 days after tumor inoculation, while all the untreated control mice died within 20 days. PMID- 2526109 TI - Teicoplanin in the treatment of infections by staphylococci, Clostridium difficile and other gram-positive bacteria. AB - Eighty-three episodes of Gram-positive infection in 82 patients were treated with teicoplanin in an open study. Infectious episodes included endocarditis (6 cases), bacteraemia (7), osteomyelitis (8), pseudomembranous colitis (13), cellulitis (11), urinary tract infection (5), pneumonia (1), wound and post surgical infections (9) and erysipelas (23). Four patients affected by an overwhelming Gram-positive infection as well as eight cases of Gram-positive-Gram negative mixed infections received teicoplanin in combination with other antibiotics. The average duration of treatment was 16 days (range 5-70). In pseudomembranous colitis teicoplanin was given by mouth for ten days. Staphylococcus aureus (11 methicillin-sensitive and 13 methicillin-resistant strains) and Clostridium difficile (13 isolates) were the most frequent pathogens. Overall 89% (74/83) of the infections were cured, 3.6% (3/83) improved and 3.6% (3/83) failed. Relapse and superinfection were observed in 2.4% (2/83) and 1.2% (1/83) episodes respectively. All pseudomembranous colitis cases were clinically cured and C. difficile was eradicated in all but one patient. The MIC range, MIC50 and MIC90 (mg/l) of teicoplanin for C. difficile were less than 0.125-0.250, less than 0.125 and 0.250 respectively. Pharmacokinetic studies in patients given a single iv daily maintenance dose of 400 mg showed that the steady-state trough teicoplanin concentrations in serum were reached on day 8. Assays of skin-subcutaneous tissue biopsies showed that teicoplanin penetrated well into these structures. Side effects were observed in six of the 82 treated patients (7.3%) and teicoplanin had to be discontinued in four cases. The results of the study show that teicoplanin is a safe and useful new agent for the treatment of infections caused by Gram-positive organisms, including methicillin resistant staphylococci and C. difficile. PMID- 2526110 TI - Susceptibility of Legionella pneumophila to eight antimicrobial agents including four macrolides under different assay conditions. AB - A comparison of agar dilution and microdilution susceptibility testing for eight antimicrobial agents, including roxithromycin, was performed against 48 isolates of Legionella pneumophila. For agar dilution tests, charcoal free agar (BSYE) and charcoal supplemented agar (BCYE) were used. In general, BSYE agar produced lower MICs than BCYE agar, except for imipenem. Microdilution testing data fell between the data obtained for the two agar media. The MBCs were two to sixteen fold higher than the MICs. Prolongation of the incubation time from 48 h to 72 h or growth in 5% CO2 did not influence the results. As tested by the microdilution method, an increase in the inoculum from 10(5) to 10(7) was associated with a two fold increase in the MIC. Roxithromycin and two other investigational macrolides (A-56268 and rosaramicin) demonstrated better in-vitro activity than erythromycin. PMID- 2526111 TI - Comparative in-vitro activity of vancomycin, teicoplanin, ramoplanin (formerly A16686), paldimycin, DuP 721 and DuP 105 against methicillin and gentamicin resistant Staphylococcus aureus. AB - The in-vitro activities of five anti-staphylococcal agents, teicoplanin, ramoplanin, paldimycin, DuP 721 and DuP 105 have been compared to vancomycin. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) have been determined for a collection of methicillin and gentamicin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MGRSA), comprising 75 strains obtained from 22 centres. In terms of geometric mean MICs (inoculum size 10(5) cfu) paldimycin was the most active agent (0.4 mg/l) followed by ramoplanin (0.75 mg/l), teicoplanin (1.0 mg/l), DuP 721 and vancomycin (2.0 mg/l) and DuP 105 (6.8 mg/l). Ramoplanin was bactericidal within six hours to all strains at a concentration of 1.0 mg/l. The MBC90s for vancomycin and teicoplanin were greater than 32 mg/l after 22 h exposure to antibiotic and 2.5 and 4.0 mg/l respectively after 26 h exposure. Paldimycin was bactericidal against only some strains, while DuP 721 and DuP 105 were not bactericidal. Ramoplanin is the most interesting of the new antibiotics, on account of its rapid and consistent bactericidal activity. PMID- 2526113 TI - Interaction of teicoplanin with other antimicrobial agents against gram-positive aerobes. PMID- 2526112 TI - Serum and tissue levels of teicoplanin during cardiac surgery: the effect of a high dose regimen. AB - Two prospective trials suggested that teicoplanin was less effective in preventing Gram-positive wound infections after cardiac surgery than a combination of flucloxacillin and an aminoglycoside. The initial dose of 400 mg was associated with a subinhibitory concentration of teicoplanin in fat at the end of operation. In this study, the behaviour of a higher initial dose (12 mg/kg) was investigated in ten patients during coronary artery surgery. As in the earlier trials, a second dose (400 mg) was given after 24 h. The mean concentration at the end of cardiopulmonary bypass was 15 mg/l in serum, 6 mg/kg in fat and 9 mg/kg in skin, all in excess of the expected break-point for staphylococci (4 mg/l). The higher dose regimen might be more successful in surgical prophylaxis. PMID- 2526115 TI - Mechanical response to hyperinflation of the two abdominal muscle layers. AB - Abdominal muscle length changes and activity were directly examined in vivo with the use of the techniques of sonomicrometry and electromyography, respectively, in nine supine anesthetized dogs. Expiratory threshold loading was utilized to stimulate recruitment of the abdominal muscles, and lung inflations produced the passive relationships. The internal layer, consisting of the internal oblique and transversus abdominis, shortened more in expiration than the external layer, consisting of the external oblique and rectus abdominis. The internal oblique shortened to approximately 83% of its length at functional residual capacity vs. 98% for the external oblique (P less than 0.05). The results obtained during passive lung inflation indicate these internal muscles are also more influenced by changes in lung volume. The internal oblique lengthened to 115% of its length at functional residual capacity vs. 103% for external oblique at total lung capacity (P less than 0.05). The results suggest that anatomic division of the abdominal muscles into external and internal layers corresponds to functional differences in terms of both passive lengthening and active shortening during ventilation and that these differences imply variable functions of the two layers. PMID- 2526114 TI - Plasma atrial natriuretic peptide during brief upright and supine exercise in humans. AB - The factors associated with the exercise-induced increase in plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) have not been clearly established. Thus the purpose of the study was to further document the stimulus for the exercise-induced release of ANP and to examine the role of ANP in the control of hydromineral balance during exercise. Eight healthy male volunteers (25.1 +/- 4.5 yr) were submitted to a graded cycling exercise in both the upright and supine positions. Venous blood was sampled at rest and at the end of each 5-min work load at 40, 60, and 80% maximal oxygen uptake (Vo2max), at maximal exercise, and during recovery through an indwelling catheter for the determination of plasma vasopressin, aldosterone, catecholamines, plasma renin activity, and ANP concentrations. Results indicate a significant increase in ANP (pg/ml) from rest to maximal exercise in the upright position [rest, 21.9 +/- 10.2; 40%, 24.7 +/- 12.6; 60%, 32.4 +/- 17*; 80%, 47.8 +/- 27.7*; 100% Vo2max, 65.9 +/- 34.5* (*P less than or equal to 0.05)]. Supine concentrations were significantly higher than upright at 40 (37.9 +/- 15.2), 60 (54.0 +/- 18.8), and 80% Vo2max (68.9 +/- 16.6). Plasma ANP during maximal exercise was similar in both positions. Plasma vasopressin, aldosterone, renin activity, and catecholamines increased with increasing exercise intensity in both positions, although lower values were systematically observed in the supine position. The association of higher plasma ANP and blunted plasma vasopressin, plasma renin activity, and norepinephrine concentrations during supine exercise suggests that ANP may exert modulatory effects on the control of the hydromineral hormonal system during exercise. PMID- 2526116 TI - Glycogen synthesis from lactate in a chronically active muscle. AB - In response to neural overactivity (pseudomyotonia), gastrocnemius muscle fibers from C57Bl/6Jdy2J/dy2J mice have different metabolic profiles compared with normal mice. A population of fibers in the fast-twitch superficial region of the dy2J gastrocnemius stores unusually high amounts of glycogen, leading to an increased glycogen storage in the whole muscle. The dy2J muscle also contains twice as much lactate as normal muscle. A [14C]lactate intraperitoneal injection leads to preferential 14C incorporation into glycogen in the dy2J muscle compared with normal muscle. To determine whether skeletal muscles were incorporating lactate into glycogen without body organ (liver, kidney) input, gastrocnemius muscles were bathed in 10 mM [14C]lactate with intact neural and arterial supply but with impeded venous return. The contralateral gastrocnemius serves as a control for body organ input. By using this in situ procedure, we demonstrate that under conditions of high lactate both normal and dy2J muscle can directly synthesize glycogen from lactate. In this case, normal whole muscle incorporates [14C] lactate into glycogen at a higher rate than dy2J whole muscle. Autoradiography, however, suggests that the high-glycogen-containing muscle fibers in the dy2J muscle incorporate lactate into glycogen at nearly four times the rate of normal or surrounding muscle fibers. PMID- 2526117 TI - Beta-endorphin activity and hypercapnic ventilatory responsiveness after marathon running. AB - To investigate the hypothesis that endurance exercise may lead to a decrease in ventilatory chemosensitivity as possibly mediated by an increase in endogenous beta-endorphins, we measured hypercapnic ventilatory responsiveness (HCVR) and circulating beta-endorphin immunoreactivity in six runners before and after a marathon (42.2 km) race and after administration of 10 mg iv naloxone. Similar testing was performed at identical time periods on the day before the marathon as control data. On each occasion, HCVR was measured twice 15 min apart, and the mean value was used for analysis. Six active (training distance 50-104 km/wk) and experienced (no. of marathons completed, 1-25) runners participated in the study. There were no significant changes in beta-endorphin activity or HCVR on the control day. All runners experienced a rise in beta-endorphin activity from premarathon (21.3 +/- 16.0 pg/ml) to immediate postmarathon (89.6 +/- 84.9 pg/ml) values (P less than 0.05). However, HCVR showed no significant change at any of the three testing periods on the marathon day. To investigate whether a time delay may have affected the lack of response to naloxone, additional testing was performed in five subjects, except that 10 mg iv naloxone was given within 10 min after completion of the marathon, and then HCVR was measured. Although there was a greater than fourfold increase in beta-endorphin immunoreactivity after the marathon, there was no significant change in HCVR after naloxone administration. We conclude that natural increases in endogenous beta-endorphin activity associated with marathon running do not modulate central chemosensitivity. PMID- 2526118 TI - Effects of starvation and refeeding on elastase-induced emphysema. AB - Adult rats received pancreatic elastase (75 U/100 g) intratracheally and were divided into three groups: fed, starved, and refed. Starved rats received one third of their measured daily food consumption until they lost 40% body weight. The refed group was fed after 40% weight loss. A control group received saline intratracheally. Saline volume-pressure curve was shifted more significantly to the left of the control group in starved than in fed rats and was superimposed in refed and fed groups. Mean linear intercept was larger and alveolar surface area was smaller in starved than in fed rats compared with the control group; both were similar in fed and refed rats. Protein and hydroxyproline content of the lung were higher in fed than in control and in starved groups; after refeeding these returned to the control values. We conclude that starvation aggravates elastase-induced injury and that refeeding results in the complete recovery of the mechanical but only partial recovery of the morphometric changes induced by starvation. PMID- 2526119 TI - Medicine at the crossroads. PMID- 2526120 TI - Studies on the purified, lipid-reconstituted (Na+ + Mg2+)-ATPase from Acholeplasma laidlawii B membranes. Dependence of enzyme activity on lipid headgroup and hydrocarbon chain structure. AB - The purified (Na+ + Mg2+)-ATPase from Acholeplasma laidlawii B membranes was successfully reconstituted with a number of different phospho- and glycolipids, and the ability of these lipids to support the function of this enzyme was evaluated by their ability to increase the specific activity of the purified enzyme and by their ability to restore its lipid-phase state-dependent properties which were lost during purification. The incorporation of this ATPase into liposomes composed of the endogenous membrane lipids of the organism, or of zwitterionic phospholipids such as phosphatidylcholine or phosphatidylethanolamine, results in a full reconstitution of its activity and its lipid-phase state-dependent properties. In contrast, anionic phospholipids alone, or in combination with zwitterionic phospholipids at concentrations higher than 10 mol % of the anionic phospholipid, cause an irreversible inhibition of this ATPase. However, when combined with neutral glycolipids, larger amounts of anionic phospholipid can be tolerated without enzyme inhibition. Phosphatidylcholines with acyl chains of 14-24 linear carbon atoms and varying degrees of branching and unsaturation successfully reconstitute the enzyme, in marked contrast to the shorter chain homologues, which were ineffective. Our results indicate that the full expression of the activity of the A. laidlawii B ATPase requires a host lipid bilayer membrane of low to moderate negative surface charge which is predominantly liquid-crystalline and of a minimal bilayer thickness. Once such requirements are met, the enzyme exhibits considerable flexibility regarding the nature of the lipids which can effectively support its function. In particular, the activity of the A. laidlawii B ATPase is not very sensitive to lipid "fluidity" in the liquid-crystalline state. PMID- 2526121 TI - Metabolism of 125I-atrial natriuretic factor by vascular smooth muscle cells. Evidence for a peptidase that specifically removes the COOH-terminal tripeptide. AB - The addition of 200 pM monoiodinated human atrial natriuretic factor-(99-126) (125I-hANF) to cultured bovine aortic smooth muscle cells at 37 degrees C resulted in a rapid clearance from the medium (t1/2 approximately 7.5 min). Within 5 min, [125I]iodotyrosine126 (125I-Y), Arg125-[125I]iodotyrosine126 (125I RY) and Phe124-Arg-[125]iodotyrosine126 (125I-FRY) appeared in the medium. The identities of these degradation products were confirmed by 1) retention time on high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) relative to standards, 2) products generated by digestion with aminopeptidase M, and 3) the absence of the Met110. Preincubation of the cells with ammonium chloride or chloroquine resulted in a significant increase in the intracellular accumulation of radiolabel, indicative of endocytosis and rapid delivery of 125I-hANF to an acidic intracellular compartment (endosome and/or lysosome). Neither ammonium chloride, chloroquine, nor excess unlabeled hANF blocked the rapid appearance in the medium of 125I-RY or 125I-FRY. Bestatin inhibited the generation of 125I-RY, with a concomitant increase in 125I-FRY, suggesting that the 125I-RY is produced by aminopeptidase action on 125I-FRY. The endopeptidase 24.11 (enkephalinase) inhibitor, SCH 39370, did not inhibit the formation of 125I-FRY. These results provide evidence of a peptidase capable of specifically removing the COOH-terminal tripeptide from 125I hANF. The COOH-terminal tripeptide, Phe124-Arg-Tyr126, was also isolated from cell digests of hANF by HPLC and its identity confirmed by amino acid analysis. Since it is generally believed that the COOH-terminal tripeptide is critical to many of atrial natriuretic factor-(99-126)'s bioactivities, this enzyme may be involved in the inactivation of atrial natriuretic factor-(99-126) in target tissues. PMID- 2526122 TI - Reconstitution of the thermostable trimeric phage P22 tailspike protein from denatured chains in vitro. AB - Intermediates in the intracellular chain folding and association pathway of the P22 tailspike endorhamnosidase have been identified previously by physiological and genetic methods. Conditions have now been found for the in vitro refolding of this large (Mr = 215,000) oligomeric protein. Purified Salmonella phage P22 tailspikes, while very stable to urea in neutral solution, were dissociated by moderate concentrations of urea at acidic pH. The tailspike protein was denatured to unfolded polypeptide chains in 6 M urea, pH 3, as disclosed by analytical ultracentrifugation, fluorescence, and circular dichroism. Upon dilution into neutral buffer at 10 degrees C, the polypeptides fold spontaneously and associate to form trimeric tailspikes with high yield. Like native phage P22 tailspikes, the reconstitution product is resistant to denaturation by dodecyl sulfate in the cold and displays endorhamnosidase activity. Sedimentation coefficients, electrophoretic mobility, and fluorescence emission maxima of native and reconstituted tailspikes are identical within experimental error. By characterization of intermediates, localization of temperature-sensitive steps, and analysis of the effect of previously identified folding mutations, the reconstitution system described should allow comparison of in vivo and in vitro folding pathways of this large protein oligomer. PMID- 2526123 TI - Biosynthetic analysis of the human interferon-gamma receptor. Identification of N linked glycosylation intermediates. AB - Biosynthesis of the human IFN gamma receptor was studied using metabolic labeling techniques and immunoprecipitation with receptor-specific monoclonal antibodies. Colo-205 and HepG2 cells labeled with [35S]methionine gave rise to two components with molecular mass 75 and 90 kDa following sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. No bands were detected when immunoprecipitation was performed using irrelevant monoclonal IgG or in the presence of excess ligand, a condition known to block antibody-receptor interaction. When Colo-205 were labeled for increasing periods of time, the 75-kDa form was detected after 5 min, whereas the 90-kDa form appeared only after 60 min. Pulse-chase analysis established that the 75-kDa form was the precursor of the 90-kDa component. Only the 90-kDa form was detected on extrinsically radioiodinated Colo-205 cell surfaces. This observation was confirmed by Western blot analysis of isolated Colo-205 membranes. Digestion of labeled precipitates with peptide:N-glycosidase F caused a 22% reduction in the apparent molecular weight of the IFN gamma receptor. Receptor derived from tunicamycin-treated Colo-205 labeled for 5 min displayed a single molecular mass of 65 kDa and expressed ligand binding activity. Longer labeling periods in the presence of tunicamycin revealed the appearance of a second ligand-binding form of 70 kDa. Thus, Colo-205 IFN gamma receptors carry asparagine (N)-linked oligosaccharides and possibly some other form of post-translational modification. PMID- 2526124 TI - The calmodulin binding domain of the plasma membrane Ca2+ pump interacts both with calmodulin and with another part of the pump. AB - Synthetic peptides corresponding to the calmodulin-binding domain of the human erythrocyte Ca2+ pump were prepared representing residues 2-29 (C28W), 2-21 (C20W), 2-16 (C15W), and 16-29 (C14) of the sequence (James, P., Maeda, M., Fisher, R., Verma, A. K., Krebs, J., Penniston, J. T., and Carafoli, E. (1988) J. Biol. Chem. 263, 2905-2910). Peptides C28W, C20W, and C15W bound to calmodulin with an apparent 1:1 stoichiometry in the presence of Ca2+ and inhibited the activation of the Ca2+ pump by calmodulin, while C14 was ineffective. Substituting tyrosine (C28Y) or alanine (C28A) for the tryptophan residue lowered the affinity for calmodulin. The estimated Kd values for the calmodulin-peptide complexes were 0.1 nM for C28W, 5-15 nM for C20W, C28Y, and C28A, and 700-1700 nM for C15W. The Ca2+ pump in inside-out erythrocyte membrane vesicles was activated by proteolytic removal of the endogenous calmodulin-binding domain. Addition of C20W or C28W then inhibited calmodulin-independent Ca2+ transport, while a calmodulin-binding peptide from another enzyme had no effect. The inhibition of the pump by C20W was purely competitive with Ca2+, while C28W decreased the Vmax and increased the K1/2 for Ca2+, restoring the pump activity nearly to its low basal level. The results suggest that a calmodulin-binding peptide from any enzyme has two kinds of specificity: it shares with peptides from other enzymes the ability to bind to calmodulin, but only it has the specificity to interact with its own (proteolytically activated) enzyme. PMID- 2526125 TI - Histidine 21 is at the NAD+ binding site of diphtheria toxin. AB - Treatment of fragment A chain of diphtheria toxin (DT-A) with diethylpyrocarbonate modifies His-21, the single histidine residue present in the chain, without alteration of other residues. Parallel to histidine modification, NAD+ binding and the NAD-glycohydrolase and ADP-ribosyltransferase activities of DT-A are lost. Both NAD+ and adenosine are very effective in protecting DT-A from histidine modification and in preserving its biological properties, while adenine is ineffective. Reversal of histidine modification with hydroxylamine restores both NAD+ binding and enzymatic activities of the toxin. The possible role of His 21 in the activity of diphtheria toxin is discussed in relation to the available three-dimensional structure of the related toxin produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. PMID- 2526127 TI - Identification of the domains of tissue-type plasminogen activator involved in the augmented binding to fibrin after limited digestion with plasmin. AB - The binding of recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator (rt-PA) to fibrin increases upon digestion of fibrin with plasmin. Optimal binding is observed following a limited plasmin digestion of fibrin, coinciding with the generation of fibrin fragment X polymers. We studied the involvement of the separate domains of the amino-terminal "heavy" (H) chain of rt-PA in this augmentation of fibrin binding. The fibrin-binding characteristics of a set of rt-PA deletion mutants, lacking either one or more of the structural domains of the H chain, were determined on intact fibrin matrices and on fibrin matrices that were subjected to limited digestion with plasmin. The augmented fibrin binding of rt-PA is partially abolished when the plasmin-degraded fibrin matrices are subsequently treated with carboxypeptidase B, demonstrating that this increased binding is dependent on the generation of carboxyl-terminal lysine residues in the fibrin matrix. Evidence is provided that this increase of fibrin binding is mediated by the kringle 2 (K2) domain that contains a lysine-binding site. Further increase of the fibrin binding of rt-PA is independent of the presence of carboxyl terminal lysines. It is shown that the latter increase is not mediated by the K2 domain. Based on our data, we propose that the increase in fibrin binding, unrelated to the presence of carboxyl-terminal lysine residues, is mediated by the finger (F) domain, provided that this domain is correctly exposed in the remainder of the protein. PMID- 2526126 TI - Identification of a cell surface-binding protein for the core protein of the basement membrane proteoglycan. AB - We have identified a protein(s) on the surface of hepatocytes that binds to the core protein of the heparan sulfate proteoglycan of basement membranes. These cells attached and spread on substrates prepared from the basement membrane heparan sulfate proteoglycan (HSPG) and its core protein (HSPG-core). Three proteins (Mr = 38,000, 36,000, and 26,000) were found to bind to a HSPG-core affinity column using extracts of iodinated hepatocytes, whereas proteins extracted from isolated membranes contained primarily the larger protein (Mr = 38,000). Similar results were obtained using a solid phase binding technique using labeled HSPG-core. Binding of HSPG-core to the protein (Mr = 38,000) was not altered by the presence of an excess of heparin, heparan sulfate, fibronectin, laminin, or collagen IV but was reduced by unlabeled HSPG-core. Similar studies showed that the binding protein (Mr = 3,0000) was present in extracts from the membranes of Engelbreth-Holm-Swarm tumor cells, Madin-Darby canine kidney cells, COS cells, melanoma cells, and rat kidney epithelial cells but not in fibroblasts. The protein was found in increased amounts in 3T3 cells treated with retinoic acid. These observations suggest that a variety of cells that contact basement membrane contain the proteoglycan-binding protein. PMID- 2526128 TI - Structural and enzymatic studies of the T4 DNA replication system. II. ATPase properties of the polymerase accessory protein complex. AB - In this paper we report a detailed enzymatic characterization of the interaction of the polymerase accessory protein complex of the T4 DNA replication system with the various nucleic acid cofactors that activate the ATPase of the complex. We show that the ATPase activity of the T4 coded gene 44/62 protein complex is stimulated synergistically by binding of DNA and T4 gene 45 protein and that the level of ATPase activation appears to be directly correlated with the binding of nucleic acid cofactor. Binding of any partially or completely single-stranded DNA to the complete accessory protein complex increases the catalytic activity (as measured by Vmax) while decreasing the binding affinity for the ATP substrate. While single-stranded DNA is a moderately effective cofactor, we find that the optimal nucleic acid-binding site for the complex is the primer-template junction, rather than single-stranded DNA ends as previously reported in the literature. Gene 45 protein plays an essential role in directing the specificity of binding to primer-template sites, lowering the Km for primer-template sites almost 1000-fold, and increasing Vmax 100-fold, compared with the analogous values for gene 44/62 protein alone. The most effective primer-template site for binding and enzymatic activation has the physiologically relevant recessed 3'-OH configuration and an optimal size in excess of 18 base pairs of duplex DNA. We find that the chemical nature of the primer terminus (i.e. 3'-OH or 3'-H) does not affect the extent of ATPase activation and that binding of the polymerase accessory protein complex to DNA cofactors is salt concentration dependent but appreciably less so when the activating DNA is a primer-template junction. Finally, we show that the gene 32 protein (T4 coded single-stranded DNA-binding protein) can compete with the polymerase accessory protein complex for single stranded DNA but not for the primer-template junction activation sites. The implications of these results for the structure and function of the polymerase accessory protein complex within the T4 DNA replication system are discussed. PMID- 2526129 TI - Anterior Zielke instrumentation for spinal deformity in adults. AB - Fifty-eight adults who had scoliosis or hyperlordosis had anterior arthrodesis and Zielke instrumentation. Postoperatively, the curve improved 68 per cent in forty-nine patients who had idiopathic scoliosis and 40 per cent in nine patients who had paralytic scoliosis or hyperlordosis or congenital scoliosis. More correction was obtained when a derotator apparatus was used. Only one patient had failure of the instrumentation that necessitated additional surgical treatment. All of the arthrodeses resulted in osseous fusion. No patient who had idiopathic scoliosis lost correction (average follow-up, forty-two months; range, thirty to seventy-eight months). There were no serious complications. Lumbar lordosis decreased an average of 24 per cent compared with the preoperative measurement. This decrease was thought to be related to the correction of vertebral rotation in the curve and to the surgical technique. Use of the Zielke instrumentation resulted in excellent correction, which was not lost postoperatively in the patients who had an idiopathic curve and which was associated with minimum complications. PMID- 2526130 TI - Long-term results of intraoperative balloon dilatation. AB - A review was conducted of 61 patients who underwent intraoperative balloon dilatation over the past five years. Of the 62 dilatations in this patient group, 80% were performed in conjunction with a reconstructive procedure, and 20% were performed as a primary procedure. Dilatations were performed with the linear extrusion balloon catheter. A 94% rate of followup was achieved, with a mean followup of 16.3 months (range 1-60 months). Life table analysis reveals a 95% initial success rate decreasing to an 81% patency rate by the end of the fifth year for iliac dilatations, a 97% initial and 58% five-year patency rate for superficial femoral dilatations, and an 86% initial and 37% five-year patency rate for popliteal dilatations. 21.3% of the patients died during the followup period. No deaths occurred as a result of intraoperative angioplasty. One arterial rupture occurred, requiring a bypass graft at the same surgery. We conclude that intraoperative balloon dilatation in an adjunctive setting may offer clinical benefits to vascular patients while requiring little additional operative time. PMID- 2526131 TI - Inhibition of endothelial cell movement by pericytes and smooth muscle cells: activation of a latent transforming growth factor-beta 1-like molecule by plasmin during co-culture. AB - When a confluent monolayer of bovine aortic endothelial (BAE) cells is wounded with a razor blade, endothelial cells (ECs) spontaneously move into the denuded area. If bovine pericytes or smooth muscle cells (SMCs) are plated into the denuded area at low density, they block the movement of the ECs. This effect is dependent upon the number of cells plated into the wound area and contact between ECs and the plated cells. Antibodies to transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF beta 1) abrogate the inhibition of BAE cell movement by pericytes or SMCs. TGF beta 1, if added to wounded BAE cell monolayers, also inhibits cell movement. When cultured separately, BAE cells, pericytes, and SMCs each produce an inactive TGF-beta 1-like molecule which is activated in BAE cell-pericyte or BAE cell-SMC co-cultures. The activation appears to be mediated by plasmin as the inhibitory effect on cell movement in co-cultures of BAE cells and pericytes is blocked by the inclusion of inhibitors of plasmin in the culture medium. PMID- 2526132 TI - High molecular weight kininogen inhibits fibrinogen binding to cytoadhesins of neutrophils and platelets. AB - Fibrinogen inhibited 125I-high molecular weight kininogen (HMWK) binding and displaced bound 125I-HMWK from neutrophils. Studies were performed to determine whether fibrinogen could bind to human neutrophils and to describe the HMWK fibrinogen interaction on cellular surfaces. At 4 degrees C, the binding of 125I fibrinogen to neutrophils reached a plateau by 30 min and did not decrease. At 23 and 37 degrees C, the amount of 125I-fibrinogen bound peaked by 4 min and then decreased over time because of proteolysis of fibrinogen by human neutrophil elastase (HNE). Zn++ (50 microM) was required for binding of 125I-fibrinogen to neutrophils at 4 degrees C and the addition of Ca++ (2 mM) increased the binding twofold. Excess unlabeled fibrinogen or HMWK completely inhibited binding of 125I fibrinogen. Fibronectin degradation products (FNDP) partially inhibited binding, but prekallikrein and factor XII did not. The binding of 125I-fibrinogen at 4 degrees C was reversible with a 50-fold molar excess of fibrinogen or HMWK. Binding of 125I-fibrinogen, at a concentration range of 5-200 micrograms/ml of added radioligand, was saturable with an apparent Kd of 0.17 microM and 140,000 sites/cell. The binding of 125I-fibrinogen to neutrophils was not inhibited by the peptide RGDS derived from the alpha chain of fibrinogen or by the mAb 10E5 to the platelet glycoprotein IIb/IIIa heterodimer. Fibrinogen binding was inhibited by a gamma-chain peptide CYGHHLGGAKQAGDV and by mAb OKM1 but was not inhibited by OKM10, an mAb to a different domain of the adhesion glycoprotein Mac-1 (complement receptor type 3 [CR3]). HMWK binding to neutrophils was not inhibited by OKM1. These observations were consistent with a further finding that fibrinogen is a noncompetitive inhibitor of 125I-HMWK binding to neutrophils. Fibrinogen binding to ADP-stimulated platelets was increased twofold by Zn++ (50 microM) and was inhibited by HMWK. These studies indicate that fibrinogen specifically binds to the C3R receptor on the neutrophil surface through the carboxy terminal of the gamma-chain and that HMWK interferes with the binding of fibrinogen to integrins on both neutrophils and activated platelets. PMID- 2526134 TI - Enhanced messenger RNA stability and differentiation of HL 60 cells treated with 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 and cordycepin. AB - The effect of inhibitors of RNA synthesis on 1,25(OH)2 vitamin D3-induced monocytic differentiation was studied in a well-differentiating clone AB 47 of HL 60 cells. The concentrations of these inhibitors were chosen to permit the maintenance of cell viability for at least 48 hours, and resulted in 40-60% inhibition of total cellular RNA synthesis. No impairment of 1,25(OH)2 vitamin D3 induced monocytic differentiation was observed with all inhibitors tested, and the presence of cordycepin actually enhanced differentiation. The phenotypic evidence of monocytic differentiation correlated with the increased levels of mRNA for c-fos and c-fms measured by hybridization to appropriate nick-translated cDNA probes. In contrast, nuclear run-on experiments showed the expected inhibition of transcription of these genes by the compounds used. The data suggest that interference by external agents with transcription of genes essential for a differentiation program brings into play compensatory mechanisms which permit the program to continue. Thus, differentiation appears to have a high priority among various competing intracellular pathways in 1,25(OH)2 vitamin D3-treated HL 60 cells. Stabilization of messenger RNA levels evident in this study may therefore represent a general cellular mechanism for the correction of unwanted effects of xenobiotics on the cell. PMID- 2526133 TI - Acidification of the lysosome-like vacuole and the vacuolar H+-ATPase are deficient in two yeast mutants that fail to sort vacuolar proteins. AB - Organelle acidification plays a demonstrable role in intracellular protein processing, transport, and sorting in animal cells. We investigated the relationship between acidification and protein sorting in yeast by treating yeast cells with ammonium chloride and found that this lysosomotropic agent caused the mislocalization of a substantial fraction of the newly synthesized vacuolar (lysosomal) enzyme proteinase A (PrA) to the cell surface. We have also determined that a subset of the vpl mutants, which are deficient in sorting of vacuolar proteins (Rothman, J. H., and T. H. Stevens. 1986. Cell. 47:1041-1051; Rothman, J. H., I. Howald, and T. H. Stevens. EMBO [Eur. Mol. Biol. Organ.] J. In press), failed to accumulate the lysosomotropic fluorescent dye quinacrine within their vacuoles, mimicking the phenotype of wild-type cells treated with ammonium. The acidification defect of vpl3 and vpl6 mutants correlated with a marked deficiency in vacuolar ATPase activity, diminished levels of two immunoreactive subunits of the protontranslocating ATPase (H+-ATPase) in purified vacuolar membranes, and accumulation of the intracellular portion of PrA as the precursor species. Therefore, some of the VPL genes are required for the normal function of the yeast vacuolar H+-ATPase complex and may encode either subunits of the enzyme or components required for its assembly and targeting. Collectively, these findings implicate a critical role for acidification in vacuolar protein sorting and zymogen activation in yeast, and suggest that components of the yeast vacuolar acidification system may be identified by examining mutants defective in sorting of vacuolar proteins. PMID- 2526135 TI - Diabetes-like alterations in hemostatic parameters after growth hormone administration for one week in normal man. AB - Excess production of growth hormone (GH) in poorly controlled diabetes is believed to be a causal factor in the development of diabetic angiopathy, the mechanism(s) of which is unknown. The present study was undertaken to determine whether exogenous growth hormone would specifically change some quantities and functional parameters known to often be abnormal in long-standing diabetes and thought to result from the development of vascular lesions in general. The authors studied capillary resistance, factor VIII coagulant antigen (F VIII:Ag), von Willebrand factor (vWf:Ag), fibronectin, fibrinogen, and tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA) before, during, and after 1 week's subcutaneous GH administration (6 IU per day divided into two doses). Capillary resistance decreased insignificantly, but returned to higher levels (p less than 0.05) 1 week after withdrawal. F VIII:Ag, vWf:Ag, fibronectin, and fibrinogen all increased significantly during GH treatment. Except for F VIII:Ag, these quantities returned to pre-medication levels 7 days after termination of GH administration. The present results may contribute to the clarification of the role of GH hypersecretion in diabetic microangiopathy and macroangiopathy. PMID- 2526136 TI - Studies of human fetal pancreatic allografts in diabetic recipients without immunosuppression. AB - Four Type I insulin-dependent diabetic men received minced tissue from 6-12 pooled fetal pancreata cultured for 48 hours. Immunosuppressive therapy was not given. The tissue was transplanted under local anesthesia into the brachioradialis muscle of the nondominant arm or below the subcutaneous adipose tissue of the left lower quadrant of the abdominal wall. An increase in C-peptide secretion was documented following each procedure. Detectable C-peptide secretory capacity has persisted for 1 year in three cases. The total insulin requirement showed a drop of 71-100% at the time of maximum C-peptide secretion. No increase in anticytoplasmic islet cell antibody titer was detected during the year of observation following transplantation. These studies document that transplantation of functioning fetal pancreatic insulin-secreting tissue can be performed with minimal operative or immunologic risk to the recipient. Significant insulin secretory capacity persists for 1 year following implantation. Further studies are warranted in order to optimize insulin secretion following fetal pancreatic islet transplantation. PMID- 2526138 TI - Frequency and therapy of end-stage renal disease due to diabetic nephropathy in the German Democratic Republic. AB - The prevalence of diabetic nephropathy among the German Democratic Republic (GDR) population is substantial, as is true of many other countries. An epidemiologic survey performed in the county of Neubrandenburg revealed increased creatinine values in 44.9% of diabetics with diabetes duration greater than 15 years, and in 24.9% of those with the disease less than 15 years. Given these data, the prevalence of renal insufficiency due to diabetic nephropathy is estimated as 27/100,000 in diabetics with greater than 15 years, and 9/100,000 in diabetics with less than 15 years of diabetes, including only patients up to the age of 49 years; this must be substantially greater when considering all age groups. Only 13% of all patients on chronic hemodialysis are diabetics. Although we offer each of our nephropathic diabetics such kidney replacement therapies as dialysis and transplantation, a substantial number of diabetics are not treated, presumably due to advanced macrovascular complications. PMID- 2526139 TI - Diabetes and renal failure: a southern Italian perspective. AB - The authors carried out a retrospective survey assessing the total proportion of diabetic patients and relative proportion of patients with Type I and Type II diabetes among patients receiving renal replacement therapy and those evaluated for chronic renal failure in a southern Italian renal unit during the period 1972 1986. The proportion of diabetics among patients accepted for renal replacement therapy was 10% (34/336); of the 34 diabetic patients, only one was clearly affected by Type I diabetes, 26 had Type II diabetes, and the classification was uncertain in four patients. Similar relative proportions of Types I and II diabetes were observed among patients referred during the same period for evaluation of chronic renal failure. PMID- 2526137 TI - Effect of a low protein diet on the relationship of nonenzymatic glycation to altered renal structure and function in diabetes mellitus. AB - Renal functional parameters including creatinine clearance, urinary albumin excretion, basement membrane thickening, and levels of nonenzymatic glycation of glomerular basement membrane were studied in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats and age-matched controls subjected to low protein diet. In addition, these parameters were also assessed in diabetic and streptozotocin injected nondiabetic animals fed a 24% protein diet, which served as "positive controls." While diabetic animals from both diet groups had similar elevated glycated hemoglobin levels and increased levels of nonenzymatic glycation of glomerular basement membrane, these were significantly elevated as compared to insulin treated diabetic (euglycemic), age-matched controls on an 8% protein diet, and streptozotocin injected nondiabetic animals from both diet groups. However, urinary albumin excretion and creatinine clearance levels were significantly elevated only in the 24% protein diet fed diabetics over values seen in the various groups of animals on 8% and controls on 24% protein diet. In contrast, there were no statistical differences among diabetic, euglycemic and control (8% and 24% protein) animals with respect to creatinine clearance, urinary albumin excretion, and glomerular basement membrane thickness. Taken together these data cast some doubt on the role of nonenzymatic glycation in the development of diabetic nephropathy. Moreover, hyperglycemia per se causes a compensatory increase in kidney size irrespective of protein intake; a low protein diet, however, inhibits the hyperfiltration commonly seen in early diabetic nephropathy. The authors, thus, hypothesize that a low protein diet, by preventing compensatory increase in blood flow to surviving nephrons, in some fashion protects these functional units from subsequent damage and possibly delays the onset of renal failure. PMID- 2526140 TI - End-stage renal failure due to diabetic nephropathy: data from the EDTA Registry. PMID- 2526141 TI - Insulin-dependent diabetes, medical progress, and late complications. PMID- 2526142 TI - Diabetic nephropathy in insulin-dependent diabetic patients: renal hemodynamics and derived treatment strategies. AB - Late complications such as retinopathy and neuropathy contribute substantially to the morbidity of patients with diabetes mellitus but have only moderate effect on their life expectancy. However, once diabetic nephropathy occurs, life expectancy of patients with diabetes mellitus is shortened considerably. This review discusses briefly several possible pathogenetic mechanisms involved in the development of diabetic nephropathy. Changes in renal hemodynamics as the initiating and contributing factor to the development of diabetic nephropathy are discussed in more detail. Finally, the article reviews possible therapeutic measures to prevent the development of diabetic nephropathy, or to slow down its progression. PMID- 2526144 TI - Limitation of finger joint mobility in diabetes mellitus. AB - Diabetes mellitus, both insulin dependent and non-insulin dependent, is associated with limitation of joint mobility of the fingers, which can be due to connective tissue changes, neuropathy, vasculopathy, or combinations of these problems. Distinct clinical problems include Dupuytren disease, flexor tenosynovitis, carpal tunnel syndrome (diabetic hand), stiff hand syndrome, shoulder-hand syndrome (reflex dystrophy) and limited joint mobility (LJM). Stiff hand and LJM syndromes are only seen with diabetes; the others have distinct clinical characteristics in those with diabetes compared to the nondiabetic presentation. LJM is of particular interest because it is common in young patients and associated with an increased risk for the serious complications of nephropathy and retinopathy. PMID- 2526143 TI - Aldose reductase in the etiology of diabetic complications: 2. Nephropathy. AB - The progression of diabetic nephropathy can be arrested by an improvement in diabetic control. High glucose concentrations increase the flux through the aldose reductase pathway, and it has been proposed that this may contribute to renal damage. Aldose reductase is present in both the glomerulus and the renal tubule. Biochemical changes associated with increased sorbitol production have been demonstrated in animal models, including myo-inositol depletion, reduced Na+ K+ ATPase activity, and activation of the pentose phosphate and glucuronate xylose pathways. Selective inhibition of aldose reductase reverses these biochemical changes and prevents some of the structural and functional abnormalities in diabetic rats. The potential beneficial effects of aldose reductase inhibitors on diabetic kidney disease in man are at present being investigated. PMID- 2526145 TI - Formation and ways of detecting advanced glycation end-products in isolated human glomerular basement membrane and human serum albumin nonenzymatically glycated in vitro. AB - The formation of advanced glycation end-products (AGE) was investigated in samples of isolated human glomerular basement membrane (hGBM) and human serum albumin (hSA) which had been nonenzymatically glycated in vitro. In order to measure AGE, two methods which differ in principle--the standard spectrofluorescence technique and the spectrophotometric diazonium salt reaction- have been used and compared. Samples of finely homogenized hGBM and hSA were incubated for 10 days in buffer containing 500 mmol/L (9 x 10(3) mg%) and 100 mmol/L (1.8 X 10(3) mg%) D-glucose respectively. At the end of the incubation period, the ambient glucose was removed and the samples were incubated for a further 10 days in glucose-free buffer. During this time, loosely bound sugar was released into the buffer; at the end of the incubation, the emission fluorescence at 440 nm (following continuous excitation at 370 nm) and the absorbance at 492 nm of the glycated hGBM and hSA samples were measured and found to be significantly increased by comparison with native samples (1-way ANOVA: p less than 0.05 with both techniques). Comparison of the two techniques used for AGE detection showed a positive linear correlation (Pearson's correlation coefficient r = 0.714; n = 8; p = 0.02). The released glucose probably originates from reversal of the Schiff base (the first and reversible step of the nonenzymatic glycation reaction), whereas fluorescence and photometric findings prove the presence of stable AGE on both hGBM and hSA. It is concluded that AGE can indeed be formed and detected by two different methods in hGBM (and hSA) subjected to nonenzymatic glycation in vitro.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526146 TI - Intermittent diabetic microalbuminuria: association with blood pressure, glycemic control, and protein intake. AB - The factors associated with intermittent microalbuminuria were studied over 7 years in 49 Type I and 53 Type II diabetics who had normal initial albumin clearance. Fasting plasma glucose, HbA1, 24 hour urinary glucose, blood pressure, protein intake (24 hour urinary urea), and the renal clearance of albumin, transferrin, and IgG, as well as total proteinuria, were assessed every 3-6 months. Fifteen Type I and 11 Type II diabetics had 40 and 31 episodes, respectively, of intermittent microalbuminuria, defined as an albumin clearance greater than 11 nl/sec, without progressing to persistent microalbuminuria. Rises in transferrin and IgG clearance paralleled albumin clearance in both Type I and Type II diabetics. There were no significant changes in blood pressure or glycemic control during episodes of intermittent microalbuminuria. However, in Type I diabetics, intermittent microalbuminuria was associated with higher levels of urinary urea excretion. This study raises the possibility that increased protein intake may participate in the development of nephropathy in Type I diabetes. PMID- 2526147 TI - Microalbuminuria associated with a rise in blood pressure in non-insulin dependent diabetes. AB - The association between microalbuminuria and systemic blood pressure was investigated in 80 nonproteinuric subjects with non-insulin-dependent diabetes. Seventeen of 80 diabetics had urinary albumin excretion rates (AER) over 20 micrograms/min and were defined as microalbuminuric. The microalbuminuric diabetics showed a higher incidence of proliferative retinopathy and neuropathy than the normoalbuminurics. Moreover, the former group had significantly higher values of systolic blood pressure compared to the latter, although the creatinine clearance was not significantly different between the two groups. These results suggest that microalbuminuria is strongly associated with a rise of systemic blood pressure in non-insulin-dependent diabetics. PMID- 2526148 TI - Clinical management of acute myocardial infarction. AB - There is increasing evidence that angiography and revascularization soon after thrombolytic therapy offer no benefit over expectant medical therapy. Rather, intervention should be held in reserve for those patients in whom ischemia recurs. The hospital management of acute myocardial infarction, beginning when the patient is admitted to the coronary care unit, is discussed. PMID- 2526149 TI - Gas chromatographic determination of nicotinamide in meats and meat products as 3 cyanopyridine. AB - The determination of nicotinamide as 3-cyanopyridine after dehydration by heptafluorobutyric anhydride (HFB) was performed by gas-liquid chromatography (GLC) with flame ionization detection (GLC-FID) and a column of 5% OV-17 on Chromosorb W AW DMCS at 130 degrees C. Determination was possible with 3-100 micrograms of the dehydrated reaction mixture. The procedure for determining nicotinamide in various meats and meat products involves direct analysis by GLC FID without a clean-up stage; the detection limit is 5 ppm and the recovery ranged from 93.4 to 104.6% (average 98.0%). Various possible interferents in the samples did not interfere in the production or determination of 3-cyanopyridine. The procedure is suitable for routine use. The dehydrated derivative of nicotinamide was confirmed as 3-cyanopyridine by combined gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and infrared spectrometry. PMID- 2526150 TI - Determination of phosphonoformate (foscarnet) in biological fluids by ion-pair reversed-phase liquid chromatography. AB - Bioanalytical liquid chromatographic methods for the determination of phosphonoformate (foscarnet) have been developed. Biological fluids, after simple pre-treatment (ultrafiltration and/or treatment with charcoal), were injected into a reversed-phase liquid chromatographic system with electrochemical detection. Foscarnet was retained as an ion pair with tetrahexylammonium; addition of pyrophosphate was necessary in order to obtain an acceptable peak. This additive could also be used for the fine regulation of the retention to achieve the necessary selectivity. PMID- 2526152 TI - Reversible bone loss in women treated with GnRH-agonists for endometriosis and uterine leiomyoma. AB - Oestrogen deficiency at the menopause is associated with changes in calcium and bone metabolism. Hypo-oestrogenism induced by the use of GnRH-agonists is clinically useful in the treatment of oestrogen-dependent diseases. This study was done to investigate calcium homeostasis and bone metabolism of pre-menopausal women in a GnRH-agonist-induced pseudo-menopause. Eighteen patients with endometriosis or uterine leiomyoma received monthly i.m. injections of 3.2 mg of long-acting D-Trp-6-LHRH over a 6-month period. Plasma oestradiol-17 beta and progesterone levels under treatment were significantly decreased to the levels of the early follicular phase. Plasma total calcium, serum osteocalcin and plasma alkaline phosphatase concentrations increased, while plasma phosphate levels did not change. Levels of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 decreased significantly, but 25 hydroxyvitamin D3 values remained constant. Trabecular bone mineral density of lumbar spine decreased continuously during the 6-month period. Nine women completed 6-9 months follow-up. In these women bone loss was reversible. Cortical bone measurements at the proximal radius showed no change during oestrogen deficiency. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate that GnRH-agonist-induced bone loss is reversible. Furthermore, they suggest that the state of pseudo menopause induced by GnRH-agonist may serve as a model for further pathophysiological studies on calcium homeostasis and bone metabolism in the post menopause. PMID- 2526151 TI - Long-term effects of progestin and RU 486 on prolactin production and synthesis in human endometrial stromal cells. AB - Previous studies have shown that the production of prolactin (PRL) is increased in human endometrial stromal cells cultured with medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) for 3-5 days. In the present study, we have investigated the effect of prolonged treatment of progestin and anti-progestin, RU 486, on the production and synthesis of PRL. Stromal cells were isolated from human endometrium obtained from non-pregnant women and cultured for 20-30 days in medium RPMI 1640 with 2% fetal calf serum or supplemented with MPA, RU 486, alone or in sequence. The PRL content in medium was measured by radioimmunoassay. The production rate was estimated from the PRL content in medium accumulated in 24 h. The PRL production rate was progressively increased in stromal cells continuously treated with MPA for 30 days (greater than 100-fold over the control value, i.e. 0-0.01 microgram/0.1 mg cell DNA/day). RU 486 alone had no effect on the production of PRL. However, the production of PRL was increased by MPA in stromal cells pretreated with RU 486 indicating that the effect of RU 486 is reversible. When stromal cells were treated with MPA and RU 486 sequentially, RU 486 stimulated the PRL production (approximately 2-fold over the MPA-treated cells) for 2-3 days and then reduced to basal levels over a 5-day period. The stimulatory and inhibitory effects of RU 486 on PRL production in stromal cells pretreated with progestin was also observed in the rate of synthesis of PRL estimated by incubating the stromal cells with [35S]methionine and immuno-isolating the [35S]PRL with anti-PRL.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526154 TI - Bilateral trochlear nerve paresis in hydrocephalus. AB - Three patients with nonneoplastic hydrocephalus had bilateral paresis of the trochlear nerves. Associated signs, including paresis of upgaze, light-near dissociation of the pupils, and convergence-retraction nystagmus, suggested rostral involvement of the mesencephalon. Trochlear nerve paresis and accompanying signs improved after revision of ventricular shunts in two patients. Bilateral trochlear nerve paresis may be a localizing sign of involvement of the superior medullary velum (the anatomic site of trochlear nerve decussation) by a dilated sylvian aqueduct and/or downward pressure from an enlarged III ventricle. PMID- 2526153 TI - Transvaginal hysterosalpingo-contrast-sonography (Hy-Co-Sy) compared with conventional tubal diagnostics. AB - Transvaginal hysterosalpingo-contrast-sonography (Hy-Co-Sy) is described as a new method for direct imaging of the tubal passage in tubal diagnostics. During one period of anaesthesia, a transvaginal Hy-Co-Sy was followed by either hysterosalpingography or chromolaparoscopy in 42 patients with sterility disorders. The contrast-enhanced sonography of the tubes was performed in eight cases with sterile saline solution (group 1) and 34 cases with a specially developed ultrasound contrast medium (SH U 454, group 2). The findings obtained by transvaginal Hy-Co-Sy were compared with those of the conventional method. By both methods, there was complete agreement with respect to the same evaluation of tubal passage for both sides, partial agreement when firstly the tubes were assessed as unilaterally or bilaterally open--without precise localization of the side--depending on the appearance of fluid in the pouch of Douglas, or secondly, only one side, when compared, showed agreement. In group 1 complete agreement was found once, partial agreement five times and non-agreement twice, while in group 2 complete agreement was found 22 times (65%), partial agreement 11 times and non agreement once. PMID- 2526155 TI - Bilateral internuclear ophthalmoplegia due to acute cervical hyperextension without head trauma. AB - A 58-year-old woman developed bilateral internuclear ophthalmoplegia, probable right oculosympathetic paresis (Horner's syndrome), and right facial dysesthesias with acute cervical hyperextension upon sustaining a rear-end automobile collision. There was no head trauma. A nuclear magnetic resonance scan revealed a discrete area of increased signal in the tegmentum of the pons to the left. Extensive recovery was noted 1 year later. The acute cervical hyperextension suggested acute shearing and stretching of axons from brain stem deceleration rather than transient vertebral artery ischemia. Internuclear ophthalmoplegia representing intracranial pathology without direct head trauma has not previously been described with acute cervical hyperextension injury. PMID- 2526156 TI - Anterior ischemic optic neuropathy and increased intraocular pressure. AB - Five patients were noted to have increased intraocular pressure (IOP) during evaluation for acute nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (AION). Three of the five had no prior record of IOP elevation; all five had small cup-to disc ratios. Elevated IOP may be a risk factor for developing AION, especially in eyes with structurally congested optic discs. PMID- 2526157 TI - Gadolinium-DTPA enhancement of an optic nerve and chiasmal meningioma. AB - The advent of gadolinium-diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (Gd-DTPA), a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent, has significantly improved MRI's diagnostic accuracy by enabling the physician to separate magnetically similar but histologically different tissues. A patient with optic nerve meningioma, whose tumor was clearly demonstrated on Gd-DTPA-enhanced MRI but did not appear on noncontrast MRI, is described. The usefulness of contrast agents in MRI diagnosis of neuro-ophthalmologic disorders and ophthalmic tumors is emphasized through this case report. PMID- 2526158 TI - Giant cell arteritis associated with progressive systemic sclerosis. AB - The clinical and autopsy findings in a patient with both systemic sclerosis (scleroderma) and giant cell arteritis are presented. Giant cell arteritis and systemic sclerosis are autoimmune diseases affecting the elderly that may be associated with similar clinical symptoms of facial pain and arthralgias. Their coexistence is virtually unknown in the medical literature but is of great clinical importance. Systemic sclerosis is not treated with the steroid dosage necessary to prevent the morbid results of giant cell arteritis. An elevated sedimentation rate and/or an abnormal temporal artery examination in an elderly patient with systemic sclerosis should alert the clinician to the possible coexistence of giant cell arteritis. PMID- 2526159 TI - Uremic optic neuropathy. AB - A rare case of documented reversible bilateral optic neuropathy as the presenting manifestation of chronic renal failure is discussed. Repeated hemodialysis in the early stages of the disorder was useful for recovery of vision. PMID- 2526160 TI - Ocular disease in Caribbean patients with serologic evidence of Lyme borreliosis. AB - Four patients from Caribbean and Central American countries with ocular disease and serologic evidence of Lyme borreliosis are discussed. To our knowledge this is the first report of Lyme disease from this geographic area. Two patients exhibited ocular inflammatory disease, and two patients developed optic neuropathy. A brief discussion of Lyme borreliosis, its serologic diagnosis, and its treatment is presented. PMID- 2526161 TI - Panuveitis with positive serological tests for syphilis and Lyme disease. AB - The Treponema pallidum hemagglutination test and the fluorescent treponemal antigen absorption test are commonly considered highly specific serologic tests for syphilis. We describe a patient with panuveitis and a positive serologic result for syphilis; however, in the absence of clinical findings, additional tests for Lyme disease (borreliosis) were positive as well, although by Western blot test the diagnosis was tentative. The clinical appearance of the panuveitis was similar to that of syphilitic uveitis accompanied by pseudopigmentosa-like areas in the anterior retina. In the presence of uveitis with an otherwise unexplained positive serologic result for syphilis, the differential diagnosis of Lyme disease should be considered. PMID- 2526162 TI - Echographic correlation of optic nerve sheath size and cerebrospinal fluid pressure. AB - A 23-year-old obese woman presented with papilledema. Computed tomography showed no intracranial mass lesions and lumbar puncture revealed an increased opening pressure, confirming the diagnosis of pseudo-tumor cerebri. Standardized echography of the optic nerves was performed immediately before and after lumbar puncture. A marked reduction of cerebrospinal fluid pressure correlated with a decrease in the subarachnoid fluid of the optic nerve sheath. PMID- 2526163 TI - Interventional neuroradiology in neuro-ophthalmology. AB - Endovascular neuroradiologic procedure is the treatment of choice for patients with symptomatic direct carotid cavernous fistulae (CCF) and dural arteriovenous fistulae (DAVF) that failed manual carotid artery/jugular vein compression. Preservation of visual function and the prevention of catastrophic intracranial hemorrhage are the prime therapeutic objectives. The choice of transarterial versus transvenous approach is dictated by the pathophysiology, pattern of venous drainage, and the risk/benefit ratio in each patient. In 180 patients with CCF, 95% have been cured with a combination of manual compression, transarterial or transvenous embolization, while 3% have significant complication. In patients with DAVF, transarterial and transvenous embolization has resulted in clinical cure in 77 and 90%, respectively; the complication rate is between 4-5%. Intra aneurysmal embolization with silicone detachable balloons in its present stage of development is an acceptable alternative for patients with intracranial aneurysms not otherwise amenable to standard neurosurgical clipping. In aneurysms with a well-defined neck, aneurysm thrombosis with preservation of flow in the parent vessel has been accomplished in 90% of the patients treated. The complication rate in patients presenting with mass effect and subarachnoid hemmorrhage is 5 and 14%, respectively. PMID- 2526165 TI - The sign of Leser-Trelat: does it exist? AB - The sign of Leser-Trelat is usually regarded as a reliable cutaneous marker of internal malignancy. We have reviewed the literature and conclude that the evidence for a causal relation between eruptive seborrheic keratoses and cancer is meager. PMID- 2526164 TI - Ghost-cell tumor of the optic chiasm. Primary CNS lymphoma. AB - A case of steroid-responsive malignant lymphoma of the optic chiasm is reported in a 58-year-old woman presenting with subacute vision loss, headaches, and decreased hearing. The exquisite sensitivity of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the parasellar area and the usefulness of MR-directed stereotactic biopsy in identifying a chiasmatic lesion are shown. Primary CNS lymphomas are briefly reviewed. Ophthalmologists will be asked to evaluate patients with malignant lymphoma of the optic chiasm with increased frequency in the future, as CNS lymphomas are expected to be the most common neurological neoplasm by 1991. PMID- 2526167 TI - The need for death education in the dental curriculum. PMID- 2526166 TI - Plasmin and plasminogen in bovine milk: a relationship with involution? AB - A total of 774 individual milk samples were collected from 66 Holstein cows between October 1987 and April 1988. Samples were analyzed for plasmin, plasminogen, and SCC. An increase in SCC from less than 250,000/ml to more than 1,000,000/ml resulted in an increase of plasmin, plasminogen, and serum albumin by 105, 74, and 140%, respectively. Plasminogen, plasmin, and serum albumin followed similar trends that are expected for components from blood that gain access to the alveolar lumen through ruptured epithelium caused by mastitis. Increased plasmin is the direct result of this process rather than an increase in activation of plasminogen to plasmin. The plasminogen to plasmin ratio supports this interpretation, being 4.7 at 250,000 SCC/ml and 4.0 when SCC exceeded 1 million/ml. Plasmin and plasminogen concentrations were also increased during lactation to reach peak values immediately before the dry period. However, in this case, ratio of plasminogen to plasmin was 6.55 during early lactation and decreased by half to 3.29 during the latest stage, indicating that considerable activation of plasminogen to plasmin occurred during the latter part of lactation. Mammary epithelium is not compromised at this stage, as shown by low (.8 mg/ml) serum albumin concentration in milk. Two mechanisms responsible for increased milk plasmin include influx of plasmin from blood during mastitis and increased activation of plasminogen as lactation progresses. PMID- 2526168 TI - Aging hands: a technique of hand rejuvenation by laser resurfacing and autologous fat transfer. AB - Hands are a primary target for actinic damage and premature aging. Until recently, very little could be done to successfully erase the various signs of photoaging. This article presents a simple technique, combining fat transfer and laser resurfacing, to safely and effectively rejuvenate hands and erase the signs of aging. PMID- 2526170 TI - Application of an auditory model to speech recognition. AB - Some aspects of auditory processing are incorporated in a front end for the IBM speech-recognition system [F. Jelinek, "Continuous speech recognition by statistical methods," Proc. IEEE 64 (4), 532-556 (1976)]. This new process includes adaptation, loudness scaling, and mel warping. Tests show that the design is an improvement over previous algorithms. PMID- 2526169 TI - Speech perception studies using a multichannel electrotactile speech processor, residual hearing, and lipreading. AB - Three studies are reported on the speech perception of normally hearing and hearing-impaired adults using combinations of visual, auditory, and tactile input. In study 1, mean scores for four normally hearing subjects showed that addition of tactile information, provided through the multichannel electrotactile speech processor, to either audition alone (300-Hz low-pass-filtered speech) or lipreading plus audition resulted in significant improvements in phoneme and word discrimination scores. Information transmission analyses demonstrated the effectiveness of the tactile aid in providing cues to duration, F1 and F2 features for vowels, and manner of articulation features for consonants, especially features requiring detection and discrimination of high-frequency information. In study 2, six different cutoff frequencies were used for a low pass-filtered auditory signal. Mean scores for vowel and consonant identification were significantly higher with the addition of tactile input to audition alone at each cutoff frequency up to 1500 Hz. The mean speechtracking rate was also significantly increased by the additional tactile input up to 1500 Hz. Study 3 examined speech discrimination of three hearing-impaired adults. Additional information available through the tactile aid was shown to improve speech discrimination scores; however, the degree of increase was inversely related to the level of residual hearing. Results indicate that the electrotactile aid may be useful for patients with little residual hearing and for the severely to profoundly hearing impaired, who could benefit from the high-frequency information presented through the tactile modality, but unavailable through hearing aids. PMID- 2526171 TI - Marked elevation of serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate in Cushing's disease with macronodular adrenocortical hyperplasia. AB - A 30-year-old man presented with longstanding hypercortisolism and biochemical studies typical of pituitary-dependent Cushing's disease. After unsuccessful transsphenoidal surgery, plasma ACTH transiently became undetectable and adrenal computed tomography (CT) was consistent with macronodular hyperplasia. Serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEA-S) exceeded 10,000 ng/ml (normal 2,000 3,350 ng/ml). Despite either transient adrenal autonomy or variable adrenocortical ACTH hyperresponsiveness, urinary cortisol normalized within eight months following pituitary irradiation alone. Serum DHEA-S fell progressively but remained mildly elevated (4,000 ng/ml). Follow-up CT showed minimal residual adrenal nodularity. Given these findings and a review of the literature, we propose that chronic cosecretion of non-ACTH proopiomelanocortinderived peptides may have stimulated both hypersecretion of DHEA-S and adrenocortical macronodularity in this patient. PMID- 2526172 TI - The new selective D2-dopamine receptor antagonist raclopride--pharmacokinetics, safety and tolerability in healthy males. AB - Raclopride, a new potential antipsychotic drug, with high selectivity and affinity for central D2-dopamine receptors, was in this first human study administered to 8 healthy male volunteers in single oral doses from 0.1 to 16 mg. Two subjects, known to be slow metabolizers of debrisoquine, were also included. Pharmacokinetics, safety, tolerability, and effect on plasma prolactin levels were evaluated. The maximum plasma concentrations of raclopride (Cmax) and the area under the raclopride curve vs time (AUC) increased proportionally with dose. No deviant kinetic parameters were seen in the slow debrisoquine metabolizers. Only minor deviations in biochemical and physiological safety parameters were found. Raclopride was well tolerated by all subjects at doses up to 8 mg but not at 16 mg because of akathisia. No other extrapyramidal side-effects were recorded. The drug induced a rapid and transient increase of plasma prolactin concentrations. PMID- 2526173 TI - T cell receptor delta gene organization and expression in normal and leukemic natural killer cells. AB - In peripheral blood most NK activity is mediated by CD3- cells with large granular lymphocyte morphology which cannot be assigned to a specific hemopoietic lineage. In accordance with previous studies we have analyzed the organization of the TCR delta gene, which rearranges early in thymic ontogeny, in normal NK cells, and in granular lymphocytes proliferative disorders (GLPD), in an effort to further define their relationship to the T cell differentiation pathway and to identify a possible marker of clonality for CD3- GLPD. The alpha/delta locus was rearranged in five cases of CD3+ GLPD with a biallelic deletion of the C delta region, suggesting V-J alpha rearrangement, whereas CD3- GLPD and normal CD3- NK cells had the delta gene in germ-line configuration, but surprisingly expressed high levels of TCR delta-related mRNA. On the basis of this finding and of the presence of truncated TCR-beta and CD3-epsilon mRNA, we are led to speculate on a possible ontogenic relationship of NK cells to the T cell differentiation pathway at stages preceding TCR gene rearrangement. PMID- 2526174 TI - Clonogenic potential of murine CD4+8+ thymocytes. Direct demonstration using a V beta 6-specific proliferative stimulus in Mlsa mice. AB - Although considerable indirect evidence supports the hypothesis that CD4+8+ thymocytes are developmental intermediates in the generation of mature (CD4+8- or CD4-8+) T cells, the ability of these cells to proliferate in vitro has been highly controversial. We demonstrate here that a fraction of purified murine CD4+8+ thymocytes can be induced to proliferate in response to immobilized anti TCR mAb. To exclude possible proliferation by trace mature T cell contaminants, we have exploited our recent finding that in Mlsa mice mature V beta 6-bearing thymic T cells are virtually absent (less than or equal to 0.5%) due to clonal deletion, whereas V beta 6 +CD4+8+ thymocytes are present in much higher numbers (approximately 3%). Proliferation of sorted CD4+8+ thymocytes from Mlsa mice was therefore induced at limiting dilution with immobilized anti-V beta 6 mAb to select against any contaminating mature T cells. Under optimal culture conditions, the frequency of CD4+8+ thymocytes proliferating specifically to anti V beta 6 mAb (1/1000) was higher than those obtained for purified CD4-8+ (1/2000) or CD4+8- (1/5000) subsets, thus demonstrating directly that a proportion (in this case 3%) of CD4+8+ thymocytes are potentially clonable. During culture, V beta 6 +CD4+8+ thymocytes gave rise to a mixture of phenotypically "immature" (CD4-8-) and "mature" (CD4-8+) T cells. This system should be valuable for further analysis of the elusive CD4+8+ thymocyte subset. PMID- 2526175 TI - Host resistance to cyclosporine induced syngeneic graft-versus-host disease. Requirement for two distinct lymphocyte subsets. AB - Cyclosporine is crucial for the prevention of organ allograft rejection and allogeneic graft-vs-host disease (GVHD). Despite its potent immunosuppressive activity, cyclosporine elicits a T cell-mediated autoimmune syndrome after autologous or syngeneic bone marrow transplantation, which has been termed syngeneic GVHD (SGVHD). Recent studies have shown that for disease manifestation, a cytoxan and radiation-sensitive T cell dependent host resistance mechanism must be eliminated, allowing the clonal expansion of autoreactive cells. This report characterizes the autoregulatory lymphocyte population, present in normal animals, capable of inhibiting the adoptive transfer of SGVHD. First, twice the number of unfractionated splenocytes from normal animals to those from autoimmune donors ensured complete inhibition of the adoptive transfer of immune reactivity. Second, the phenotype of this host resistance mechanism in normal splenocytes involves dual regulatory T cell subsets. A helper/inducer subset (W3/25+) must be cotransferred with a cytotoxic/suppressor subset (OX8+) in a ratio that approximates the normal ratio in normal unfractionated splenocytes in order to affect inhibition of the transfer of SGVHD. Moreover the specific inducer regulatory activity resides in the OX22-, W3/25+ subset of Th cells. PMID- 2526176 TI - Selective abrogation of alloreactivity via priming in the presence of aphidicolin, a specific inhibitor of DNA polymerase. AB - Aphidicolin, a specific and direct inhibitor of eukaryotic DNA polymerase alpha, was used to investigate its impact on immunologic reactions in vitro. Dose response curve of the inhibitory effect was studied in murine and human primary allogeneic responses, as well as the proliferative responses to both PHA and Con A mitogens. The presence of aphidicolin during the allosensitization phase in secondary MLR of mice splenocytes resulted in complete abolishment of the subsequent response directed against the priming alloantigens, whereas alloreactivity to unrelated alloantigen-bearing cells was inhibited to a much lesser degree. The allosensitized aphidicolin-treated cells lost the ability to respond to subsequent PHA stimulation, but were capable of exerting a high responsiveness to Con A. The presence of aphidicolin during the allosensitization phase in secondary MLR of human mononuclear cells resulted in markedly decreased alloreactivity directed against the priming cells, but spared the subsequent response to unrelated alloantigens and to both PHA and Con A mitogenic stimuli. It is suggested that aphidicolin may be used for selective inactivation of proliferating cells without interfering with immunologic functions of other quiescent subsets. Aphidicolin may thus be a useful agent for induction of specific unresponsiveness in experimental models of allogeneic transplantation. PMID- 2526177 TI - Synergistic interactions of IL-1 and IL-6 in T cell activation. Mitogen but not antigen receptor-induced proliferation of a cloned T helper cell line is enhanced by exogenous IL-6. AB - Recent reports have indicated that in addition to its well characterized effects on B cells and hepatocytes. IL-6 also affects murine and human T cells and thymocytes. Our study was designed to analyze the effects of IL-1 and IL-6 in providing a second signal in T cell activation in the D10.G4.1 assay. Highly purified human rIL-6 was tested. rIL-6 had modest but detectable activity in the D10.G4.1 assay. Maximal enhancement of proliferation induced by IL-6 in the presence of mitogen in the D10.G4.1 assay was always far less than that induced by IL-1. The D10.G4.1 assay was used to test the possibility of synergistic interactions between IL-1 and IL-6. Quantities of IL-6 which alone were not costimulatory to D10 cells enhanced IL-1-induced D10 proliferation significantly when Con A was used as a costimulus. This synergistic response could be partially blocked by antibodies to rIL-6 and fully blocked by a mAb to rIL-1 alpha. In contrast, when 3D3 (a clonotypic activating anti-TCR mAb) was used as a costimulus, no synergistic interaction between IL-1 and IL-6 could be detected. The proliferation of D10 cells induced by IL-1 and 3D3 was unaffected by antibodies to IL-6 but was completely neutralized by antibodies to IL-1. These data suggest that although IL-6 alone cannot substitute for IL-1 in functional assays for IL-1, the presence of IL-6 significantly enhances T cell responses to IL-1 in the context of the appropriate costimulatory signal. These observations have important implications regarding the specificity and utility of the D10.G4.1 assay for the measurement of IL-1 in biologic samples. PMID- 2526179 TI - Production of lymphokine mRNA by CD45R+ and CD45R- helper T cells from human peripheral blood and by human CD4+ T cell clones. AB - The expression of lymphokine mRNA by human CD4+CD45R+ and CD4+CD45R- Th cells was assessed after mitogen stimulation. These Ag have previously been shown to relate closely to virgin and primed T cells, respectively. CD4+CD45R+ (virgin) and CD4+CD45R- (primed) cell fractions were isolated by sorting double-labeled cells with a fluorescence-activated cell sorter. CD4+CD45R+ cells produced high levels of IL-2 mRNA when stimulated with either PMA together with calcium ionophore, or with PHA, but they expressed only trace quantities of mRNA for IL-4 or IFN-gamma. In contrast, CD4+CD45R- cells produced high levels of mRNA for IL-2, IL-4, and IFN-gamma. After 14 days of continuous culture, CD4+CD45R+ Th cells lost expression of the CD45R Ag, but gained high level expression of CDw29, such that they were indistinguishable from the cell population which originally expressed this Ag. At the same time, they acquired the ability to synthesize IL-4 mRNA. It seemed likely that the broad lymphokine profile of primed Th cells might mask clonal heterogeneity. Analysis of 122 CD4+ T cell clones showed that all of them synthesized IL-2 mRNA. One clone failed to express IL-4 mRNA, but did produce those for IL-2 and IFN-gamma. A total of 34 of the clones was investigated to determine expression of IFN-gamma mRNA; two of these clones were negative for IFN gamma mRNA, and both expressed IL-2 and IL-4 message. These data suggest that while fresh virgin and primed peripheral blood T cells show a clear resolution of lymphokine production, a simple subdivision of human CD4+ T cell clones on the basis of their lymphokine production (such as that reported for mouse Th cell clones) is not possible. PMID- 2526178 TI - IL-4-responsive human helper T cell clones are resistant to growth inhibition by tumor necrosis factor-alpha. AB - Positive and negative signals for clonal expansion of preactivated human CD4+ alloreactive Th cells have been examined. Fifteen T cell clones tested 3 days after Ag-specific stimulation proliferated with IL-2 but only five of these responded to IL-4. The remaining 10 also failed to respond to IL-4 in the presence of IL-1 and/or autologous B-LCL. The response of the latter five to IL-4 was independent of IL-2 as shown by the inability of IL-2R mAb to prevent proliferation. In contrast, transferrin R mAb blocked responses to both IL-2 and IL-4. IL-4 responder but not nonresponder clones demonstrated IL-4-enhanced responses to suboptimal concentrations of IL-2 (1 U/ml), but none of the clones showed enhanced responses with 1 U/ml IL-2 plus IL-1, IL-3, IL-5, or granulocyte macrophage-CSF. IFN-gamma did not enhance or inhibit responses to either IL-2 or IL-4. TNF-alpha did not block proliferation supported by IL-4. In contrast, TNF alpha did block proliferative responses to IL-2, but only by those clones which were incapable of responding to IL-4. Thus, proliferation of the IL-4-responder clones was not blocked by TNF-alpha when optimal or even supraoptimal concentrations of IL-2 were used as growth factor. Because all T cell clones themselves secreted TNF-alpha after specific stimulation, these results suggest a novel autocrine negative regulatory pathway, whereby IL-4-reactive helper cells would have a selective advantage over IL-4-nonreactive cells during the evolution of an immune response. PMID- 2526181 TI - Cloned natural suppressor cell lines express the CD3+CD4-CD8- surface phenotype and the alpha, beta heterodimer of the T cell antigen receptor. AB - Several cloned lines of natural suppressor (NS) cells were studied for their expression of the TCR complex. Almost all bore the CD3+CD4-CD8- surface phenotype with the alpha, beta TCR as judged by immunofluorescent staining. Immunoprecipitation experiments showed a spot on two-dimensional gels which is characteristic of the TCR heterodimer, but neither gamma- nor delta-chains could be precipitated with the appropriate antibodies. NS cells were stimulated to proliferate in vitro with anti-CD3 antibodies and PMA in the presence of irradiated spleen cells. However, anti-CD3 antibodies did not inhibit the suppressive activity of the NS cells. The role of the TCR complex in the suppressive function of these cells remains to be elucidated. PMID- 2526180 TI - Analysis of the functional capabilities of CD3+CD4-CD8- and CD3+CD4+CD8+ human T cell clones. AB - The functional capabilities of human peripheral blood CD3+CD4-CD8- and CD3+CD4+CD8+ T cell clones were examined. The clones were generated by culturing purified populations of CD3+CD4-CD8- and CD3+CD4+CD8+ T cells at limiting dilution (0.3 cell/well) in the presence of PHA, rIL-2, and irradiated PBMC as feeders. Twelve CD3+CD4-CD8- and 5 CD3+CD4+CD8+ clones were generated. Clonality was documented by analyzing TCR gamma- and beta-chain rearrangement patterns. All CD3+CD4-CD8- clones were stained by the TCR-delta 1 mAb that identifies a framework epitope of the TCR delta-chain, but not by mAb WT31 that identifies the TCR-alpha beta on mature T cells. In contrast, the CD3+CD4+CD8+ clones were all stained by WT31 and not by TCR-delta 1. All 17 clones were screened for various functional activities. Each secreted IL-2, IFN-gamma, and lymphotoxin/TNF-like factors when stimulated with immobilized mAb to CD3 (64.1), albeit in varying quantities. These clones secreted far less IL-2 and IFN-gamma than CD3+CD4+CD8- or CD3+CD4-CD8+ alpha beta expressing clones, but comparable amounts of lymphotoxin/TNF. All clones also functioned as MHC-unrestricted cytotoxic cells. This activity was comparable to that mediated by the CD3+CD4+CD8- or CD3+CD4-CD8+ alpha beta clones. Nine of 12 CD3+CD4-CD8- and 4 of 5 CD3+CD4+CD8+ clones were able to support B cell differentiation when activated by immobilized anti-CD3, but usually not as effectively as the CD3+CD4+CD8- or CD3+CD4-CD8+ alpha beta clones. The differences in the functional capabilities of the various clones could not be accounted for by alterations in the signaling capacity of the CD3 molecular complex as mAb to CD3 induced comparable increases in intracellular free calcium in each clone examined. When clones were stimulated with PWM, each suppressed B cell differentiation supported by mitomycin C-treated fresh CD4+ T lymphocytes. Suppression was dependent on the number of clone cells added to culture, but could be observed with as few as 12,500 cells per microtiter well. Phenotypic analysis of the clones revealed that all expressed CD29, CD11b, and the NKH1 surface Ag. These results demonstrate that the CD3+CD4-CD8- and CD3+CD4+CD8+ T cell clones exhibit many of the functional characteristics of mature T cells, although they produce IL-2 and IFN-gamma and provide help for B cell differentiation less effectively than CD3+CD4+CD8- and CD3+CD4-CD8+ alpha beta T cell clones. PMID- 2526182 TI - Two distinct affinity binding sites for IL-1 on human cell lines. AB - We used two human cell lines, NK-like YT-C3 and an EBV-containing B cell line, 3B6, as models to study the receptor(s) for IL-1. Two distinct types of saturable binding sites were found on both cell lines at 37 degrees C. Between 1 pM and 100 pM of 125I-IL-1-alpha concentration, saturable binding sites were detected on the YT-C3 cells with a K of 4 x 10(-11) M. The K found for the IL-1-alpha binding sites on 3B6 cells was 7.5 x 10(-11) M. An additional binding curve was detected above 100 pM on YT-C3 cells with a K of 7 x 10(-9) M and on 3B6 cells with a K of 5 x 10(-9) M. Scatchard plot analysis revealed 600 sites/cell with high affinity binding and 7000 sites/cell with low affinity for YT-C3 cells and 300 sites/cell with high affinity binding and 6000 sites/cell with low affinity for 3B6 cells. At 37 degrees C, the internalization of 125I-labeled IL-1 occurred via both high and low affinity IL-1R on both YT-C3 and 3B6 cells, whereas the rates of internalization for high affinity binding sites on YT-C3 cells were predominant in comparison to that of low affinity binding sites. In chemical cross-linking studies of 125I-IL-1-alpha to 3B6 and YT-C3 cells, two protein bands were immunoprecipitated with Mr around 85 to 90 kDa leading to an estimation of the Mr of the IL-1R around 68 to 72 kDa. In similar experiments, the Mr found for the IL 1R expressed on the murine T cell line EL4 was slightly higher (around 80 kDa). Whether these distinct affinity binding sites are shared by a single molecule or by various chains remains to be elucidated. PMID- 2526183 TI - Positively selected Leu-11a (CD16+) cells require the presence of accessory cells or factors for the lysis of herpes simplex virus-infected fibroblasts but not herpes simplex virus-infected Raji. AB - Previous studies from our laboratory indicated that human NK activity against HSV infected fibroblasts (HSV-Fs) but not K562 targets was sensitive to treatment with anti-HLA-DR plus C. In the current study, we have selected Leu-11a+ (CD-16) cells by fluorescence activated cell sorting and found that although Leu-11a enriched populations lysed K562 targets in 14-h 51Cr-release assays, they were unable to kill HSV-Fs targets unless a Leu-11a-depleted population was added back to the effectors or unless known activators of NK cells (IFN-alpha or IL-2) were added to the assays. In contrast, Leu-11a-enriched populations were able to mediate ADCC against HSV-Fs in the presence of sera from HSV-seropositive individuals without the requirement for accessory cells. We have begun preliminary characterization of the accessory cells which allow lysis of HSV-Fs by NK cells: they are HLA-DR+ cells which enrich in the light density fractions of Metrizamide density gradients. They need be present in very small numbers for lysis to take place and are not MHC restricted in that heterologous add-backs between anti-HLA-DR plus C and anti-Leu-11b plus C-treated populations are capable of target cell lysis at levels similar to those achieved with the autologous add-backs. Further, the levels of lysis in heterologous add-back experiments reflected the lytic potential of the effector rather than the accessory cell donor. Finally, although the requirement for accessory cells for NK lysis has been demonstrated for fibroblasts infected with HSV-1, CMV, and VZV, lysis of HSV-infected Raji lymphoblastoid cells is relatively accessory-cell independent, indicating that the requirement for accessory cells for lysis by NK cells is not a property of all herpesvirus-infected targets. PMID- 2526184 TI - Proteinase inhibitors block formation of pemphigus acantholysis in experimental models of neonatal mice and skin explants: effects of synthetic and plasma proteinase inhibitors on pemphigus acantholysis. AB - In organ culture experiments, the induction of pemphigus acantholysis is known to be blocked by the addition of serine proteinase inhibitors. Recently, nontoxic synthesized low molecular weight proteinase inhibitors have been clinically available for the treatment of disseminated intravascular coagulation and pancreatitis. To determine if these drugs are useful aids to treat patients with pemphigus, we examined the effect of omega-guanidino ester analogues, i.e., 1) gabexate mesilate, 2) camostat mesilate, and 3) nafamostat mesilate, on experimental pemphigus acantholysis in both organ culture and neonatal BALB/c mice. Furthermore, the effect of plasma natural proteinase inhibitors (alpha-1 proteinase inhibitor) isolated from human plasma was similarly examined. Results revealed that synthesized low molecular weight inhibitors (drugs) were able to inhibit the induction of acantholysis in organ culture system, but had little or no effect on lesion formation in the neonatal mouse system. By contrast, alpha-1 proteinase inhibitor could completely inhibit acantholysis formation in mice. These findings implied a possible new therapeutic approach using proteinase inhibitors for patients with pemphigus. PMID- 2526185 TI - Structure-function studies of interferons-alpha: amino acid substitutions at the conserved residue tyrosine 123 in human interferon-alpha 1. AB - Analogs of human interferon-alpha 1 (IFN-alpha 1) were created in vitro by site directed mutagenesis to investigate the structural requirements at amino acid position 123 for binding to the IFN receptor, antiviral activity, and antiproliferative activity. The tyrosine residue 123, which is conserved in all known mammalian IFNs-alpha and -beta, was replaced by each of 6 amino acids or was deleted from the protein. Several of the substitutions at position 123 partly or completely abrogated antiviral and antiproliferative activities of human IFN alpha 1 when human or murine cells were used but not when bovine cells were used. However, with analogs in which amino acids structurally related to tyrosine, phenylalanine, or tryptophan were substituted at position 123, there was retention of antiviral and antiproliferative activities using homologous cells. Thus, although there is not an absolute requirement for tyrosine at position 123, conformational changes associated with alterations of this residue are prejudicial to the biological functions of the IFN-alpha molecule. PMID- 2526186 TI - Monoclonal antibodies to the human interferon-gamma receptor: blocking of the biological activities of interferon-gamma and purification of the receptor. AB - Monoclonal antibodies against the human interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) receptor were developed by injecting mice with a preparation of receptor that was purified from solubilized placental membranes by ligand affinity chromatography. Three antibodies were identified by their ability to block the binding of 125I-labeled IFN-gamma to its receptor on HeLa cells at 4 degrees C. One of these antibodies blocked several biological activities of IFN-gamma, including its antiviral activity, its ability to induce HLA-DR surface antigens, and its ability to protect cells from NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity. This antibody exhibited higher binding capacity to cells at 37 degrees C and was significantly less displaceable by an excess of IFN-gamma as compared with the other two antibodies. Immunoaffinity chromatography of solubilized crude placental membrane preparation yielded a purified receptor that exhibited a molecular weight of 88,000. The purified receptor retained its ability to bind 125I-labeled IFN-gamma in solution. PMID- 2526187 TI - Ducto-insular proliferation of beta-cells after syngeneic islet transplantation into the spleen of streptozotocin-diabetic Lewis rats. AB - Syngeneic transplantation of cultured and functionally characterized neonatal islets into the spleen of streptozotocin diabetic Lewis rats resulted in long time survival up to 200 d and in plasma glucose levels lower than 9 mmol/L. The daily plasma glucose profile of transplanted rats had shown significantly above that of nondiabetic control rats. Two-hundred d after transplantation, morphologically intact, insulin containing beta-cells were demonstrable in the spleen, thus demonstrating the long-term survival of functioning islet cells. Proliferation of beta-cells was shown in the transplanted islets. In addition, beta-cell clusters were found that derived from pancreatic ductules transplanted together with the isolated islets into the spleen. Mitoses were visible within ductular epithelial cells. The proliferative response of islets after intrasplenic transplantation is probably the result of a long-term stimulation by slightly enhanced plasma glucose values of the transplant acceptors compared to control animals. PMID- 2526188 TI - [Long-term administration study on TE-031 (A-56268) in the treatment of diffuse panbronchiolitis]. AB - TE-031 (A-56268), a new macrolide antibiotics, was administered on a long-term basis (6 months) to 12 patients with diffuse panbronchiolitis (DPB). The causative microorganism was identified as H. influenzae in 5 cases, P. aeruginosa in 4 cases and B. catarrhalis in one case. The clinical picture of those patients was monitored, and some basic studies were also carried out. Clinically, all of the patients showed improvement in the symptoms and the various laboratory test values. Bacteriologically, as well, both H. influenzae and B. catarrhalis were eradicated. In addition, P. aeruginosa was eradicated from 2 of the 4 cases, reduced in one case and unchanged in one case. However, even in that one case in which P. aeruginosa was unchanged, the disease symptoms were alleviated. There were no instance of microbial replacement. In spite of the long-term administration of TE-031, There were no side effects. As the basic study, the DPB patients were examined for the presence of antibodies directed at viruses having affinity for the respiratory organs. It was found that a high percentage of the patients showed a high titer of antibodies for influenza virus type III and type II. It was thus surmised that it is likely that viral infection is involved in the progress of this disease. From the standpoint of the progress of DPB, the NK activity was investigated as part of the natural host defense mechanisms. It was found that, compared with healthy controls, the level of NK activity was higher in DPB patients and that it was even higher in patients on long-term TE-031 administration.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526189 TI - Productivity loss due to deformity from leprosy in India. AB - The productivity loss in India due to deformity from leprosy was assessed in a random sample of 550 leprosy patients from a rural and an urban area in the state of Tamil Nadu. Logistic and log-linear regression analyses on these leprosy patients showed that elimination of deformity would: a) raise the probability of gainful employment from 42.2% to 77.6%; b) increase annual earnings per patient gainfully employed from Rs 2948 to Rs 6469; and c) raise overall earnings for all patients from Rs 1259 to Rs 5023 per year. The earnings of 550 control subjects (adult family members of the leprosy patients) were consistent with these predictions. Extrapolation to all of India's estimated 645,000 leprosy patients with deformity suggests that elimination of deformity would raise productivity by +130 million per year. The authors conclude that the development and evaluation of programs to eliminate deformity from leprosy deserve high priority. PMID- 2526191 TI - [The clinical profiles of 78 patients with renovascular hypertension]. PMID- 2526190 TI - Studies of human leprosy lesions in situ using suction-induced blisters. 1. Cellular components of new, uncomplicated lesions. AB - The cellular contents of blisters induced by suction over new, uncomplicated leprosy lesions, and in the skin of cured, control patients, have been examined with enzyme- and immuno-histochemical staining over a period of 4 days. The total cellularity of the blisters varied over a wide range, not correlated with the type of leprosy. Mononuclear cells predominated at all times studied, with nearly equal percentages of monocytes and T lymphocytes. The T-helper: suppressor ratio was significantly greater in BT than in BL and LL lesions at 48 hr. Suction blisters offer a painless, quantitative, reproducible, multiple-sampling method for obtaining cells from the cutaneous infiltrates of leprosy for phenotyping or functional analysis. PMID- 2526192 TI - [Ischemic heart disease in three young adults with lupus nephritis]. PMID- 2526193 TI - Prevalence of spondylolisthesis, transitional anomalies and low intercrestal line in a chiropractic patient population. AB - Five hundred and thirty radiographs were screened for the presence of certain lumbosacral anomalies. The prevalence of spondylolisthesis was found to be 5.1%, lumbarization 6.0%, sacralization 5.5% and low intercrestal line 56.9%. There was no greater prevalence in patients suffering from low back pain when compared against those who did not. There was a propensity for a low intercrestal line among females. Contrary to previous claims that lumbarization is more common in men, we found a moderate predilection for this finding among women. No difference between the two sexes was found in the prevalence of sacralization, contradicting previous claims that is more common in females, nor was spondylolisthesis found more frequently in men, contrary to our expectations. PMID- 2526194 TI - Triggering T cells by otherwise inert hybrid anti-CD3/antitumor antibodies requires encounter with the specific target cell. AB - We used a purified bispecific antibody (Ab) against CD3 and an ovarian carcinoma (OVCA) antigen to ask whether the binding of a monovalent ligand to CD3 can induce triggering of T cells. In the presence of OVCA cells, this Ab bridges the CD3 complex to the target cell and triggers proliferation and cytotoxicity in T cells. In the absence of target cells, however, this monovalent Ab, even when bound to T cells at high levels, fails to induce any increase in cytosolic Ca2+, nor does it induce responsiveness to IL-2 or modulation of the CD3 complex. Because it is inert when bound monovalently, this hybrid Ab can be used to arm in vitro CTL clones, which then retain the capacity to kill the specific tumor for up to 2 d. PMID- 2526195 TI - Induction of Fc epsilon R2/CD23 on human epidermal Langerhans cells by human recombinant interleukin 4 and gamma interferon. AB - Human rIL-4 and human rIFN-gamma are able to induce the expression of the low affinity receptor for IgE (Fc epsilon R2/CD23) on normal human epidermal Langerhans cells, whereas IL-2 and PMA have no effect. A synergistic effect is observed when both cytokines are combined. These receptors are synthesized de novo by the LC since cycloheximide completely inhibits the appearance of Fc epsilon R2/CD23. Fc epsilon R2/CD23+ LC may have a major role in the pathogenesis of atopic eczema, as well as in the regulation of IgE synthesis. PMID- 2526197 TI - Tolerance in transgenic mice expressing class II major histocompatibility complex on pancreatic acinar cells. AB - To study the nature of tolerance to antigens not expressed by cells of the lymphoid system, expression of class II MHC I-E was targeted to the acinar cells of the exocrine pancreas in transgenic mice (elastase [EL]-I-E). Despite the absence of detectable I-E in the thymus of EL-I-E transgenic mice, both thymocytes and peripheral T lymphocytes were tolerant to I-E, and the pancreas was free of autoimmune infiltrates. Nontolerant T cells adoptively transferred into irradiated or T-depleted transgenic mice rapidly destroy the I-E+ components of the pancreas; however, adoptive transfer of nontolerant T lymphocytes into nonirradiated transgenic mice do not. These results suggest that tolerance in transgenic mice is maintained by some peripheral tolerance mechanism. However, further studies indicate that tolerance in transgenic mice is not maintained by specific Ts cells. For example, cell mixing experiments both in vitro and in vivo fail to reveal dominant unresponsiveness. Furthermore, nontolerant T cells injected into otherwise unmanipulated EL-I-E mice can be primed in situ (by injections of I-E+ spleen cells) to destroy the I-E+ acinar cells. PMID- 2526198 TI - Catalysis of slow C-terminal processing reactions by carboxypeptidase H. AB - A hypothesis was examined that carboxypeptidase H (CpAse H), which is known to catalyse the release of lysine and arginine from the C-terminus of peptides, can also release histidine, tyrosine, and phenylalanine. Synthetic peptides terminating in -His-Lys or -Tyr-Lys were used as model substrates for the enzyme and amino acid analysis was employed to detect release of the terminal amino acids. With N-acetyl-beta-Ala-Asn-Ala-His-Lys and N-acetyl-beta-Ala-Asn-Ala-Tyr Lys, which correspond to intermediates in the processing of porcine and human beta-endorphin, lysine was removed rapidly and quantitatively but no release of histidine or tyrosine could be detected. To allow more sensitive analysis, radiolabelled substrates were employed and the amounts of the products formed on incubation with CpAse H were determined after separation by ion-exchange chromatography. With 125I-D-Tyr-Ala-His-Lys-Lys as substrate at pH 5.7, very small amounts of D-Tyr-Ala were released; the main product was D-Tyr-Ala-His. At pH 5.0 the release of histidine from 125I-D-Tyr-Ala-His took place 6,000 times more slowly than the release of lysine from 125I-D-Tyr-Ala-Lys. When the tripeptides were incubated at pH 5 with porcine pituitary secretory granules, the lysine was released rapidly but no release of histidine could be detected. The results demonstrate that CpAse H catalyses the release of C-terminal histidine with great difficulty.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526196 TI - Murine natural killer cells express functional Fc gamma receptor II encoded by the Fc gamma R alpha gene. AB - We report evidence that murine NK cells express a functional Fc gamma RII encoded by the Fc gamma RII alpha gene. Several lines of indirect evidence indicate that freshly obtained NK cells from mice of several strains bear a functional Fc gamma RII: (a) anti-Fc gamma RII antibody 2.4G2 detects a small but significant proportion of sIg- cells and a small proportion of the 2.4G2+ cells are included in the Thy-1+ population; (b) sIg- lymphocytes contain 2.4G2+ and Fc gamma R bearing cells in similar proportions; (c) binding of particulate immune complexes by sIg- lymphocytes is completely inhibited by 2.4G2; (d) 2.4G2+ cells mediate greater than 50% of the spontaneous cytotoxicity in sIg- splenic lymphocytes. Direct evidence for the presence of Fc gamma RII on murine NK cells is provided by the results of two-color immunofluorescence studies performed on splenic lymphocytes from C57BL/6 mice showing coexpression of NK-1.1 and 2.4G2. Studies of in vitro propagated homogeneous NK cell populations confirm that murine NK cells express only Fc gamma RII and that this Fc gamma R is functional, as shown in experiments of inhibition of ADCC by the anti-Fc gamma RII antibody 2.4G2. The results of studies at the molecular level show that an Fc gamma RII alpha transcript identical to that expressed in macrophages is the only molecule encoding Fc gamma RII in murine NK cells. PMID- 2526200 TI - Intercostal nerve conduction study in man. AB - A new surface technique for the conduction study of the lower intercostal nerves has been developed and applied to 30 normal subjects. The problem of the short available nerve segment of the intercostal nerves and the bizzare compound motor action potential (CMAP) of inconsistent latency while recording over the intercostal muscles, is overcome by applying recording electrodes over the rectus abdominis muscle and stimulating the nerves at two points at a fair distance away. With the use of multiple recording sites over the rectus abdominis, the motor points for different intercostal nerves were delineated. CMAP of reproducible latencies and waveforms with sharp take-off points were obtained. Conduction velocity of the intercostal nerves could be determined. PMID- 2526199 TI - Hand muscle reflexes following electrical stimulation in choreatic movement disorders. AB - Thenar reflexes following electrical stimulation of the median nerve (containing proprioceptive and cutaneous afferents) and the radial superficial nerve (cutaneous afferents only) were investigated in 23 patients with manifest Huntington's disease (HD) at an early stage, in 17 clinically healthy descendants of HD-patients and in 18 patients with choreatic hyperkinesia due to various aetiologies other than HD. In 61% of the patients with early HD the long-latency reflexes (LLR) were uni- or bilaterally absent in response to both median nerve and radial superficial nerve stimulation. The remaining patients had a diminished mean amplitude and mean duration of their LLR. In contrast, offspring and patients with symptomatic chorea had preserved LLR which did not differ in amplitude or duration from normal controls. Additionally, the mean amplitude and mean duration of the Hoffmaan-reflex (HR) was found to be increased in patients with HD and their offspring but not in patients with other aetiologies. It is concluded (1) that the loss of LLR is not related to the choreatic hyperkinesia itself but to the degeneration of a hitherto poorly defined neuronal circuit in HD; (2) that among a variety of diseases presenting with chorea, the loss of LLR seems to be specific for HD; (3) that the testing of hand muscle reflexes in choreatic movement disorders is helpful for the differential diagnosis of early HD but not for the detection of gene carriers among offspring of patients with HD. PMID- 2526201 TI - The nucleus pontis centralis caudalis in Huntington's disease. AB - Slow saccadic eye movements occur in some patients with Huntington's disease (HD), and minor defects of supranuclear eye movement control can be demonstrated in the majority by neuroophthalmological laboratory methods. In the pathogenesis of slowed saccades, a lesion of the paramedian pontine reticular formation and specifically the nucleus pontis centralis caudalis was considered likely due to similar eye movement disturbances in well documented degenerative and vascular lesions of the lower pontine tegmentum. A systematic morphometric study was performed on the nucleus pontis centralis caudalis in 9 patients with HD. Two of them had grossly defective saccades during life, and 7 had normal eye movements on routine examination. In 8 patients, the nucleus was reduced in size, revealed a higher than normal neuronal density, and a striking loss of large neurons. One patient with HD and normal morphometric results had died 2 years after the onset of chorea from an unrelated illness. It is proposed that the nucleus pontis centralis caudalis is regularly affected in HD and that progressive loss of large neurons is the cause of saccadic slowing. PMID- 2526202 TI - Carotid angioplasty techniques. PMID- 2526203 TI - Platelet activation in outpatients undergoing esophagogastroduodenoscopy. AB - To evaluate the influence of emotional stress on platelet function, we have measured by radio-immunoassay in plasma two platelet-secreted proteins, beta thromboglobulin and platelet factor 4, in a series of outpatients undergoing esophagogastroduodenoscopy for upper digestive complaints. The plasma levels of beta-thromboglobulin and platelet factor 4, determined just before the instrumental examination, were significantly more elevated as compared to basal values, checked a week later. These results provide evidence of enhanced in vivo platelet release reaction during emotional stress. PMID- 2526204 TI - Left ventricular mass in borderline hypertension, assessed by echocardiography. Relationships with resting and stress blood pressure. AB - The relationship between clinical measurement of blood pressure (BP) and left ventricular hypertrophy in arterial hypertension appears to be weak in most studies. On the contrary, stronger correlations with target organ damage in general, and left ventricular hypertrophy in particular, have been reported for blood pressure measurements obtained by ambulatory monitoring; this finding may indicate a possible role for blood pressure response to naturally occurring stresses in determining left ventricular hypertrophy. Aim of this study was to investigate, in 18 patients with borderline arterial hypertension, the relationships between echocardiographically assessed left ventricular mass and, respectively, casual BP and BP responses to some standardized stress tests. Only three patients had a diastolic wall thickness of the interventricular septum and of the posterior wall greater than or equal to 1.2 cm and none had a pathologically increased left ventricular mass index. The following statistically significant correlations were found: casual diastolic BP vs. left ventricular mass index (r = 0.53, p less than 0.02), systolic BP response to bicycle exercise test vs. left ventricular mass index (r = 0.55, p less than 0.05). Multiple regression analysis showed that almost fifty percent of the variability of left ventricular mass index could be predicted by these two BP measurements. These findings suggest that besides the chronically increased afterload, also the transient hypertensive responses to naturally occurring physical stresses may have a role in determining the extent of cardiac structural changes in borderline hypertensive patients.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526205 TI - Fate of excess nicotinamide and nicotinic acid differs in rats. AB - Rats administered excess nicotinamide and nicotinic acid were studied to determine the metabolic fate of pharmacological levels of these compounds. When a large amount of nicotinamide (500 mg/kg body wt) was intraperitoneally injected into rats, 32% of the dose was excreted as nicotinamide, 11% as N1 methylnicotinamide (MNA), 10% as nicotinuric acid, 5% as nicotinic acid, 3% as N1 methyl-4-pyridone-3-carboxamide (4-pyr) and 2% as N1-methyl-2-pyridone-5 carboxamide (2-pyr) during d 1 after the injection. Urinary excretion of these compounds gradually decreased with time and returned to normal by d 3. Urinary excretion of nicotinic acid and nicotinuric acid was observed only on d 1. When a large amount of nicotinic acid (500 mg/kg body wt) was intraperitoneally injected into rats, 55% of the dose was excreted as nicotinic acid and 15% as nicotinuric acid during d 1, and no excretion of these compounds was observed thereafter. The increase in excretion of nicotinamide, MNA, 2-pyr and 4-pyr was slight even on d 1. Excretion of nicotinic acid, nicotinuric acid, nicotinamide, MNA, 2-pyr and 4 pyr returned to normal levels on d 2. From these results, the different fates of excess nicotinamide and nicotinic acid are discussed. PMID- 2526206 TI - Effect of supplementing low protein diets with the limiting amino acids on the excretion of N1-methylnicotinamide and its pyridones in rats. AB - We have hypothesized that the ratio of the excreted by-products of niacin metabolism, N1-methyl-2-pyridone-5-carboxamide (2-pyr) + N1-methyl-4-pyridone-3 carboxamide (4-pyr)/N1-methylnicotinamide (MNA), might be useful as an index to assess the adequacy of amino acid intake in rats. The experiment reported herein was performed to test this hypothesis. When a 10, 20 or 40% casein diet supplemented with 0.1, 0.2 or 0.4% L-methionine, respectively, was fed to rats, the urinary excretion of MNA decreased, and that of 4-pyr increased, as the level of dietary casein and methionine increased. Therefore, the ratio of (2-pyr + 4 pyr)/MNA increased with increasing dietary casein and methionine levels. When the limiting amino acids of casein or soy protein isolate were added to a low casein or low soy protein isolate diet, the urinary ratio of (2-pyr + 4-pyr)/MNA also increased. These results indicate that the increased urinary ratio of (2-pyr + 4 pyr)/MNA can serve as a biological marker for adequate amino acid intake. PMID- 2526208 TI - Water sorption and solubility of resin-based materials following inadequate polymerization by a visible-light curing system. AB - The water sorption and solubility of three hybrid and one microfine composite are reported. The values obtained are dependent on composite type and resin system. Incomplete polymerization of the two materials resulted in increased solubility and sorption due to incomplete conversion of the monomer. The marked increased in both parameters will have clinical significance on the durability of the material. PMID- 2526207 TI - The effects of birth chair delivery on maternal perceptions. AB - A prospective quasi-experimental study was conducted to determine women's perceptions of their childbirth experiences using a birth chair. The sample consisted of 55 primiparas, from 37 to 41 gestational weeks, with normal pregnancy and labor; 22 women delivered on a traditional delivery table (DT), and 33 women used a birth chair (BC). A questionnaire consisting of 21 items on a five-point scale (the higher the score, the more positive the perception) was self-administered by subjects during postpartum hospitalization. No significant differences were found between groups on overall score. However, women using the birth chair had a significantly higher score on the comfort subscale, as did women who had attended prepared childbirth classes. PMID- 2526209 TI - A comparative in vitro study of visible light-cured sealants. AB - The introduction of visible light polymerization in dentistry led to the development of a new generation of pit and fissure sealants. The purpose of this study was an overall evaluation of some in vitro characteristics of four new sealants (Delton LC, Helioseal, Pentra-Seal and Visioseal) in comparison with a chemically cured control (Delton). The results indicate that the monomer systems utilized in the new materials have already been used in dental polymer technology. The relatively new monomers TCDDMA/TCDMA were identified in one product. Camphoroquinone is used as a photoinitiator in all the light-cured systems which, after 40 s exposure, present better conversion than the control. The extent of oxygen inhibition was considerably reduced in the new sealants and the surface hardness was enhanced. Great differences were obtained in the penetration coefficient values; these, however, did not affect the enamel retention capacity of the materials tested. Consequently, light-cured sealants should be considered to be strongly compatible with the conventional chemically cured sealants from a laboratory aspect until more clinical evidence is available for their effectiveness in the prevention of pit and fissure decay. PMID- 2526210 TI - [Use of nasal flowmeter to measure nasal patency]. AB - We determined nasal peak flow using a peak flowmeter with a face mask (PALROD peak expiratory flowmeter) and nasal airway patency with an anterior rhinomanometer (Nihon Koden MPR-1100) at a minimum time interval in the same individual. We compared the values obtained by two kinds of measurements to evaluate the usefulness of the peak flowmeter for nasal airway patency. In this study, the nasal patencies were experimentally changed and measured in 30 patients using alpha-1 stimulant spray and in 25 patients with nasal allergy using nasal provocation of antigens. We also measured the natural circadian changes of nasal patency in 21 patients with nasal allergy and in 18 normal persons every two hours from 8:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. and from 9:00 A.M. to 9:00 P.M., respectively. As a result, we found close correlations between percent change of the peak flow and the nasal airway patency measured after spraying alpha-1 stimulant (r = 0.699, p less than 0.01), after antigen provocation (r = 0.585, p less than 0.01), and during circadian change (r = 0.464, p less than 0.01 in normal persons and r = 0.251, p less than 0.05 in allergy patients). In conclusion, peak flowmeter is handier and cheaper than rhinomanometer and is useful in evaluating the effect of vasoconstrictors and nasal provocation on nasal patency and in measuring the circadian changes of nasal patency. Since nasal secretion in the nose affects the measurement of peak flow, it should be removed as much as possible immediately before the flowmeter is used. PMID- 2526212 TI - Potency of infused spinal antinociceptive agents is inversely related to magnitude of tolerance after continuous infusion. AB - By employing a constant-rate (1 microliter/hr) constant-dose intrathecal infusion pump in rats, groups received a 7-day infusion of one of three concentrations (in nmol/hr) of each of the following receptor preferring ligands: morphine (mu: 2, 6, 20), sufentanil (mu: 0.06, 0.2, 0.6), DAMGO (mu: 0.1, 0.3, 1.0), DADLE (delta: 2, 6, 20) or ST-91 (alpha-2: 3, 10, 30). On day 7 the magnitude of tolerance was assessed by establishing i.t. dose-response curves for the effect of the chronic drug given as a bolus. Each infused animal was used for one bolus injection. It was observed that for all drugs, a parallel rightward shift in the dose-response curve was produced with the degree of shift proportional to the log of the infusion dose. Of particular significance was the finding that drugs differed significantly in the magnitude of the shift produced by the chronic infusion of equieffective concentrations. Thus, at the intermediate infusion dose, the degree of the shift in the bolus dose-response curve (i.e., magnitude of tolerance) for morphine, DADLE, ST-91, DAMGO and sufentanil was 55, 46, 29, 7 and 2, respectively. These data are interpreted to suggest that agents with high potency and a significant receptor reserve will produce a smaller shift in the dose response curve (e.g., sufentanil and DAMGO) than the similar infusion of an equieffective dose of another agent with less potency and a smaller population of spare receptors (morphine). PMID- 2526211 TI - Effect of several kinds of drugs on the development of autoimmunity in MRL/Mp lpr/lpr mice; lack of correlation between the suppression of autoantibody production and prevention of autoimmune disease. AB - MRL/Mp-lpr/lpr (MRL/l) mice spontaneously develop autoimmune kidney disease which resembles human systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Employing this strain of mouse, we examined the effect of several immunosuppressants and a newly synthetized anti-nephritic agent, 4-chloro-3',6'-dimethyl-2,2'-iminodibenzoic acid (TO-115) on both the development of immunological abnormalities and the clinical symptoms of autoimmune kidney disease. This study aimed to determine how much the magnitude of autoantibody suppression related to the degree of prevention of autoimmune nephritis. Immunological abnormalities were assessed by measuring the serum levels of anti-deoxyribonucleic acid and anti-trinitrophenyl antibodies, rheumatoid factor (RF), and immune complex (IC). The status of autoimmune kidney disease was monitored by means of the appearance of proteinuria and survival time and the measurement of serum levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and cholesterol. Immunosuppressants such as cyclophosphamide (CY), 6 mercaptopurine (6 MP) and sodium aurothiomalate (SAT) remarkably suppressed the development of immunological abnormalities in a dose dependent manner. Interestingly, however, only CY showed the suppressive effect on the development of autoimmune kidney disease with prolongation of survival time and the excretion of proteinuria. In contrast, 6-MP and SAT did not inhibit the development of autoimmune kidney disease. On the other hand, TO-115 did not suppress the development of immunological abnormalities, but it restrained the symptoms of autoimmune kidney disease. Taken together, the suppression of autoantibody production does not always lead to prevention of the development of autoimmune kidney disease.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526213 TI - Characterization of membrane-bound and soluble D2 receptors in canine caudate using [125I]IBZM. AB - (S)-(-)-3-iodo-2-hydroxy-6-methoxy-N-[(1-ethyl-2-pyrrolidinyl) methyl]benzamide (IBZM) was shown to be a high-affinity antagonist selective for the D2 subtype of dopamine receptor. Binding sites for the radioligand [125I]IBZM were characterized with membranes and digitonin-solubilized extracts of canine caudate enriched by chromatography on heparin-agarose. Nonspecific binding, defined using 2 microM (+)-butaclamol, was less than 10% of the total ligand bound at the Kd of the receptor for [125I]IBZM. Direct binding, competition and kinetic experiments indicated that [125I]IBZM bound to a homogeneous population of binding sites. The rank order of potency for inhibition of the binding of [125I]IBZM by antagonists and agonists was found to be consistent with the pharmacological profile expected of a D2 receptor. The affinities of [125I]IBZM for membrane-associated and detergent-solubilized binding sites were essentially identical (Kd congruent to 0.4 nM). This result contrasts with findings obtained in studies with [3H]spiroperidol, where a marked decrease in the affinity of the receptor for the ligand has been observed during detergent solubilization and purification of the receptor. The high selectivity, nanomolar affinity and high specific activity of [125I]IBZM and the results obtained in studies with detergent extracts suggest that [125I]IBZM will be a particularly useful ligand for studies of D2 receptors in the presence of detergents. PMID- 2526214 TI - Preclinical studies on quinelorane, a potent and highly selective D2-dopaminergic agonist. AB - Quinelorane (LY163502) has the endocrine, neurochemical and behavioral profile of a potent and highly selective D2-dopaminergic agonist. The administration of quinelorane produced dose-related decreases in serum prolactin concentration of reserpinized, male rats and increases in serum corticosterone concentration of male rats. The minimum effective doses (MED) for these effects were 10 and 30 micrograms/kg i.p., respectively. Quinelorane induced increases in 3-methoxy-4 hydroxyphenylglycol-sulfate levels in the brain stem (MED, 30 micrograms/kg i.p.) and decreases in hypothalamic epinephrine levels (MED, 100 micrograms/kg i.p.) in male rats as determined by high-pressure liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection methods. Quinelorane induced increases in extracellular ascorbic acid as determined by in vivo voltammetry in the nucleus accumbens and striatum of male rats. Quinelorane produced concentration-dependent suppression of K+-evoked release of acetylcholine from superfused caudate slices, with an IC50 of approximately 10(-8)M. Quinelorane administration produced dose-related increases in compulsive, contralateral turning in male rats with unilateral nigrostriatal lesions and increases in locomotor activity and stereotypic behavior in male rats. In dogs, quinelorane administration produced dose-related increases in emetic response with an ED50 of 7 micrograms/kg i.v. Quinelorane administration also produced dose-related decreases in the striatal concentrations of the dopamine metabolites, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid and homovanillic (MED, 1 microgram/kg i.p. for both metabolites) as determined by high-pressure liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection methods and decreases in extracellular concentrations of homovanillic acid in the nucleus accumbens and striatum as determined by in vivo voltammetry., Quinelorane produced concentration-dependent decreases in K+-evoked dopamine release from superfused striatal slices (IC50 = 3 X 10(-9) M).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526215 TI - Activation of ATP-sensitive outward K+ current by nicorandil (2-nicotinamidoethyl nitrate) in isolated ventricular myocytes. AB - The vasodilatory agent, nicorandil (2-nicotinamidoethyl nitrate) activates an outward K+ current in cardiac and vascular smooth muscle. This current was studied with the patch clamp technique using isolated guinea pig and rabbit ventricular myocytes. Nicorandil (10(-5) and 10(-4) M) shortened the action potential duration without any significant change in the resting membrane potential. Under voltage clamp, nicorandil increased the time-independent outward current at potentials positive to -80 mV, and decreased the inward current at potentials negative to -90 mV. The drug did not affect Ca++ current activated upon depolarization from the holding potential of -30 mV, or did it influence delayed outward K+ current on repolarization. In rabbit myocytes, nicorandil did not increase the Ca++-sensitive and -insensitive transient outward K+ currents. When the ATP concentration of the pipette solution was reduced from 5 to 2 to 3 mM, nicorandil produced a large increase in outward current, which decreased slightly with time. The increased outward current was antagonized by raising the intracellular ATP concentration. Nicorandil increased the probability of opening of the ATP-sensitive single channel current without affecting its unitary amplitude. These results indicate that nicorandil activates the ATP-sensitive K+ current, which is responsible for shortening of the action potential duration. PMID- 2526216 TI - Calmodulin and free oxygen radicals interaction with steady-state calcium accumulation and passive calcium permeability of cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum. AB - The generation of free oxygen radicals from the xanthine-xanthine oxidase system produced a decrease in the steady-state calcium load of canine cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) vesicles and an increase in the SR passive calcium permeability. This effect of free oxygen radicals was completely inhibited by superoxide dismutase, a scavenger of superoxide anion radical (.O2-). Treatment of intact SR with a specific calmodulin antagonist, compound 48/80 or W-7, lead to the enhancement of the free oxygen radical-mediated reduction of steady-state calcium accumulation with little effect on passive calcium permeability and Ca,Mg adenosine triphosphatase activity. The effects of free oxygen radicals and the calmodulin antagonists on steady-state calcium accumulation, but not on passive calcium permeability, were only observed in the presence of the endogenous calmodulin of SR vesicles. These results indicate that stimulation by .O2- and/or a closely related species of free oxygen radical of the passive calcium leak pathway is not calmodulin-dependent and is not a potent way of changing the steady-state calcium accumulation. Hence, we propose that calmodulin-dependent component of calcium fluxes in cardiac SR vesicles is modified directly by free oxygen radicals, and that free oxygen radicals can reduce steady-state calcium accumulation due to increased calcium release through a calcium efflux pathway which is inhibited by calmodulin, but not due to reduced catalytic activity of the pump. PMID- 2526217 TI - Serotonin agonists inhibit synaptic potentials in the rat locus ceruleus in vitro via 5-hydroxytryptamine1A and 5-hydroxytryptamine1B receptors. AB - Intracellular recordings were made from rat locus ceruleus neurons in the slice preparation in vitro. Depolarizing synaptic potentials (DSP)2 elicited by electrical stimulation were typically 10 to 15 mV in amplitude and 200 msec in duration. Superfusion with 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT, serotonin) or the 5-HT1 receptor agonist 5-carboxamidotryptamine (5-CT), produced an inhibition of the DSP. The maximal inhibition was 55 +/- 2% (mean +/- S.E.M.). The EC50 for 5-CT was 60 nM, whereas for 5-HT it was 12 microM. Cocaine (10 microM) shifted the 5 HT concentration-response curve to the left and the EC50 to 320 nM. 8-Hydroxy-2 (di-n-propylamino)tetralin, a selective 5-HT1A receptor ligand, also inhibited the DSP, but only produced about 65% of the maximal 5-CT or 5-HT response (EC50 = 50 nM). A relatively selective 5-HT1B ligand (65-fold 5-HT1B greater than 5 HT1A), 1-(m-trifluoromethyl-phenyl)-piperazine, acted as a full agonist (EC50 = 110 nM). None of these compounds had any effects on the membrane properties of the cell at the doses tested. The response to 8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino) tetralin was antagonized by pretreatment with the 5-HT1A antagonist spiperone (1 microM). The estimated KD for spiperone was 16 nM. At this same concentration, however, there was no effect on the 5-CT-induced inhibition. The antagonist 4-(3 ter-butyl-amino-2-hydroxy-propoxyl)-indol-2-carbonic acid isopropyl ester (LM 21 009, 100 nM) was found to be a partial agonist producing a 26 +/- 4% inhibition of the DSP.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526218 TI - T-lymphocyte subsets in recurrent aphthous ulceration. AB - Peripheral T-lymphocyte subsets: T-helper (OKT4) and T-suppressor (OKT8) cells were studied quantitatively in 20 patients with recurrent aphthous ulceration (RAU) in ulcerative, as well as inactive, stages of the disease. The figures were compared with T-lymphocyte subsets from matched control donors with no history of RAU. The ratio of T-helper: T-suppressor cells was significantly lower in both stages in the patients compared with controls due to a significantly increased number of T-suppressor cells in RAU patients. The number of T-helper cells in the patients did not differ significantly in either stage compared with controls. The study support the hypothesis of recurrent aphthous ulceration being a disorder of immunodeficiency. PMID- 2526219 TI - Influence of bonding agents and composites on microleakage. AB - The compatibility of selected composite resins was compared with Scotchbond Dual Cure adhesive. In addition, the influence of the types of composite resins on microleakage was investigated. No significant difference was found in microleakage of preparations restored with Scotchbond Dual Cure adhesive and the five composite resins of other manufacturers from restorations inserted with the manufacturers bonding agent and composite resin. Severe leakage occurred at the gingival dentinal margin in all restorations. However, leakage was greatly reduced when a less viscous microfilled composite resin was used in conjunction with various bonding agents. The findings of this study indicate that the higher viscosity and lower water-sorption values of some composite resins may adversely influence micro-leakage regardless of the bonding agent used. PMID- 2526220 TI - Variation in the CD4/non-T cell autologous mixed lymphocyte reaction with disease activity and rheumatoid factor titer in patients with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. AB - Variation in the CD4/non-T autologous mixed lymphocyte reaction (AMLR) with disease activity in juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) was evaluated by repeated study of 5 patients with rheumatoid factor (RF) negative and 8 patients with seropositive polyarticular onset. Results of repeated studies of adult controls fell within the limits of 1 SD from the previously established normal mean. In contrast, greater variation occurred in results of patients with JRA. Patients with RF negative JRA showed no correlation with disease activity but in seropositive patients stimulation indices in the AMLR improved with a reduction in disease activity and RF titer. PMID- 2526221 TI - Axial involvement in the seronegative enthesopathy and arthropathy syndrome and its progression to ankylosing spondylitis. AB - We studied prospectively the clinical and radiographic features of sacroiliac and spinal involvement in 20 patients with seronegative enthesopathy and arthropathy. This group was compared with 25 patients with a polyarticular onset form of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) and 28 with definite ankylosing spondylitis (AS) of juvenile onset. A significant increasing proportion of patients with seronegative enthesopathy and arthropathy developed back complaints and radiographic sacroiliitis fulfilling the diagnostic criteria for AS from the 3rd 5th year of disease (47.1-75.0%) and thereafter (92.3%). Back complaints were rarely seen in JRA and, furthermore, sacroiliitis of the AS type nerve occurring in this group. There were no significant differences between the group with seronegative enthesopathy and arthropathy and juvenile AS, either at onset or through the years. Clinical and radiographic assessment of axial involvement in children at risk should include a careful analysis of symptoms, periodical measurements of the spinal flexion and, starting from the 3rd year, radiographs of the pelvis. PMID- 2526222 TI - Synovial fluid lymphocytes in eosinophilic fasciitis. AB - Arthritis is an uncommon manifestation of eosinophilic fasciitis. We report a patient who developed arthritis of his left knee, followed 2 weeks later by skin lesions which evolved into histologically proven eosinophilic fasciitis. Synovianalysis on 2 occasions demonstrated a mildly inflammatory fluid with more than 90% lymphocytes. These lymphocytes were shown to be primarily activated suppressor/cytotoxic T cells. PMID- 2526223 TI - Interleukins production and responsiveness in Fisher rats with adjuvant-induced disease: role of suppressor cells. AB - Splenic macrophages from AID Fisher rats produce normal levels of IL-1, in contrast to IL-2 which is significantly lower than normal. A state of hyporesponsiveness of spleen cells to Con-A and PHA occurs with similar kinetics to and is correlated with the development of an articular arthritis; IL-1 addition to AID spleen cell cultures does restore to normal their deficient response, in contrast to addition of IL-2 or rIL-2. The spleen cells from normal or AID rats are equally sensitive to the inhibitory effects of suppressor glass adherent cells found in AID spleens on lymphocyte proliferation. Our results indicate that these suppressor cells interfere with IL-1 production or IL-1 binding to T-cells and that this interference is not due to passive absorption of interleukins by these cells. PMID- 2526224 TI - Anomalous influence of reduced internal ATP levels on sodium efflux in Myxicola giant axons. AB - Giant axons from the marine annelid, Myxicola infundibulum, were internally dialyzed with ATP-free media and with media with lower than normal ATP levels in an attempt to determine quantitatively the ATP requirement of the Na pump in these cells. This was accomplished by using 22Na ions to measure Na efflux. When [ATP]i in dialysis fluid fell to values within the range of 20-40 microM, a marked stimulation of Na efflux was observed even though an essentially normal ouabain sensitivity of Na efflux persisted; when axons were dialyzed with ATP free solutions with ouabain present in the external medium throughout the dialysis period, the stimulation of Na efflux still occurred. The stimulation of Na efflux produced by low [ATP]i levels could be reversed by reintroducing normal ATP levels into the dialysis medium. Reversibility was complete provided axons were not depleted of ATP for periods longer than about 1 hr. Longer periods of ATP depletion led to larger and ultimately irreversible increases in Na efflux. The increases in Na efflux occasioned by ATP depletion either prevented or obscured the decrease in Na efflux expected to occur from unfueling the Na pump. Since [ATP]i levels required to significantly unfuel the Na pump lie below the levels at which the Na efflux stimulation occurred, it is problematic to quantitatively assess the influence of [ATP]i levels on Na pump rate by measurements of Na efflux in this preparation. Substitutes for ATP failed to prevent increases in Na efflux. The large increases in Na efflux observed at low [ATP]i occurred with no important changes in the resting membrane potential, and also occurred in Na-free and Ca-free external media. At least part of the increased Na efflux under these conditions may be due to a Na/Na exchange component, as a significant dependence of Na efflux on [Na]o appropriate for this kind of exchange was observed in the ATP-depleted axons. Whether the highly reproducible anomalous effect on Na efflux in Myxicola axons has some fundamental significance in its own right is a matter for future investigation. A few possible explanations of the anomalous effect of reduced ATP levels are discussed. PMID- 2526225 TI - Stretch-induced centrifugal movement of atrial specific granules--a preparatory step in atrial natriuretic peptide secretion. AB - Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) is a circulating hormone produced by atrial muscle cells which acts upon renal vascular smooth muscle to raise glomerular filtration pressure, thereby increasing salt and water excretion and reducing blood pressure [2, 5, 8]. As in other peptide hormone-secreting cells, ANP is packaged and stored in dense Golgi-derived secretory granules [4-6]. These atrial specific granules [6] occur predominantly in large clusters deep in the myocyte's interior, associated with Golgi cisternae in myofibril-free cytoplasm at the nuclear poles [5, 6]. Smaller clusters and individual granules are distributed beneath the sarcolemma and between myofibrils [6, 10]. Expansion of the blood volume raises the level of circulating ANP [7], a response mediated by mechanical stretch of the atrial wall [1, 3, 9]. The mechanism by which cell stretch induces release of ANP from atrial myocytes is, however, unknown. We show here that one component of this unusual secretory mechanism involves a sudden centrifugal movement of atrial specific granules toward the cell surface. PMID- 2526226 TI - Angiogenic potency of nucleotide metabolites: potential role in ischemia-induced vascular growth. AB - Hypoxia and ischemia are potent stimuli to vascular growth. The mechanisms by which vascular growth is induced are unknown. During ischemia, such as that which occurs in the heart, purine and pyridine nucleotides are degraded and their metabolites accumulate. At least two of these metabolites, adenosine and nicotinamide, have previously been demonstrated to induce vascular growth. The goal of this study was to determine whether other purine and pyridine metabolites have the potential to stimulate angiogenesis in vivo, to determine the relative angiogenic potency of these metabolites, and to determine if their angiogenic effects is mediated through a direct effect on endothelial cell proliferation. Purine metabolites (adenosine, inosine, hypoxanthine, xanthine, guanosine, uric acid), the pyridine metabolite nicotinamide, and chemical derivatives of nicotinamide, were tested at various concentrations for their ability to stimulate angiogenesis in the chick choriollantoic membrane assay. Although none of the purine metabolites were effective in promoting the angiogenic response, nicotinamide as well as several derivatives of nicotinamide induced an angiogenic response in a dose-dependent manner. Nicotinamide was then evaluated to determine if its angiogenic effect is a result of a direct effect on capillary endothelial cell proliferation. In concentrations of 100 microM to 1 mM nicotinamide was not demonstrated to be mitogenic for bovine capillary endothelial cells. These results demonstrate that pyridine nucleotides are indirect angiogenic agents that do not exert a primary effect on endothelial cell proliferation. The results of this study suggest that increases in vascular growth induced by ischemia and hypoxia might be mediated, at least in part, by pyridine metabolites released from ischemic tissues. PMID- 2526227 TI - Detection of specific IgG and IgA antibodies to Chlamydia trachomatis in women with salpingitis confirmed by laparoscopy. AB - The sera from 12 consecutive symptomatic women with laparoscopy-confirmed salpingitis were screened for the presence of specific IgG and IgA antibodies to Chlamydia trachomatis by a single antigen (L-2) immunoperoxidase assay. All women were found to have IgG and IgA antibodies to C trachomatis. Six women had positive endocervical cultures for C trachomatis, and one of these had positive cultures from the conjunctiva and fallopian tubes. Serum chlamydial IgA antibodies may serve as markers for active infection with C trachomatis regardless of whether organisms can be identified by culture or direct fluorescent antibody techniques from endocervical or fallopian tube samples. PMID- 2526228 TI - Inhibition of lymphoproliferation by a synthetic peptide with sequence identity to gp41 of human immunodeficiency virus type 1. AB - Peptides were synthesized that contained sequences from two regions (env amino acids [aa] 581 to 597 and 655 to 671) of the transmembrane protein gp41 and one region of the external envelope glycoprotein gp120 (aa 457 to 464) of human immunodeficiency virus type 1. Selection of these sequences was based on their homology to the highly conserved and immunosuppressive sequence contained within the transmembrane proteins p15E and gp21 of animal and human retroviruses, respectively. Peptide aa581-597 was found to specifically inhibit human and murine lymphoproliferation, whereas peptides aa655-671 and aa457-464 had no activity. These results suggest a mechanism by which human immunodeficiency virus type 1 gp41 exerts a direct immunosuppressive effect in vivo, analogous to that postulated for p15E and gp21, which could contribute to the immune dysfunction observed in patients suffering from acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. It is of particular interest that the sequence aa 584 to 609, shown to contain B- and T helper-cell epitopes, overlaps with the sequence aa 581 to 597 that is shown here to inhibit lymphoproliferation. The potential implications of this overlap of immunologic activities are discussed. PMID- 2526230 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide in patients with obstructive uropathy. AB - Renal response to release of bilateral ureteral obstruction resembles that to intravenous administration of atrial natriuretic peptide. In a prospective study we measured plasma atrial natriuretic peptide levels before and serially after relief of obstruction in 9 patients (mean age 65 +/- 2 years old) with bilateral ureteral obstruction and azotemia. Obstruction was documented by renal ultrasonography. Before relief of obstruction blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine levels were 85 +/- 18 (mean +/- standard error) and 8.2 +/- 1.3 mg. per dl., respectively, accompanied by metabolic acidosis but not hyperkalemia. Mean plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (measured by radioimmunoassay) was 129 +/- 28, which was markedly elevated compared to 46 +/- 7 pg. per ml. in 7 age-matched control subjects (p less than 0.01). After relief of obstruction, prominent post obstructive diuresis and natriuresis ensued; the plasma atrial natriuretic peptide level progressively decreased to that noted in the control group, accompanied by improvement in renal function, and diminishing diuresis and natriuresis. These findings were associated with a significant weight loss and an increase in plasma renin activity (from a mean of 1.57 +/- 0.68 to 5.27 +/- 1.82 ng. per ml. per hour, p less than 0.01). These results suggest that atrial natriuretic peptide release is augmented in patients with bilateral ureteral obstruction and azotemia, probably due to hypervolemia, and may contribute to post-obstructive diuresis and natriuresis. PMID- 2526231 TI - Who took the "p" out of statistics? PMID- 2526229 TI - Differential induction of cytolytic susceptibility by E1A, myc, and ras oncogenes in immortalized cells. AB - The E1A oncogene of adenovirus serotypes 2 and 5 induces susceptibility to the cytolytic effects of natural killer lymphocytes and activated macrophages when expressed in infected and transformed mammalian cells (cytolysis-susceptible phenotype). E1A and the oncogenes v-myc, long-terminal-repeat-promoted c-myc, and activated c-ras share the ability to immortalize transfected low-passage rodent cells. The cytolytic phenotypes of well-characterized rodent cell lines immortalized by these three oncogenes were defined. In contrast to target cells expressing the intact E1A gene, myc- and ras-expressing, immortalized primary transfectants were resistant to lysis by both types of killer cell populations. The same patterns of susceptibility (E1A) and resistance (myc and ras) to cytolysis were observed in oncogene-transfected continuous rat (REF52) and mouse (NIH 3T3) cell lines, indicating that differences in the cytolytic phenotypes associated with expression of these oncogenes are not due to cell selection during immortalization. The results suggest that the E1A oncogene may possess a functional domain that is different from those of other oncogenes, such as myc and ras, and that the activity linked to this postulated domain is dissociable from the process of immortalization. PMID- 2526232 TI - Laser angioplasty for limb salvage: observations on early results. AB - During a 27-month period laser thermal angioplasty (LTA) was attempted in 15 patients who had totally occluded segments of their superficial femoral- popliteal arteries (SFA) with limb-threatening ischemia (rest pain or tissue necrosis). In five patients (33%) laser perforation of the SFA precluded successful angioplasty, and those five patients have been excluded from further analysis. In the remaining 10 patients the prelaser angiogram demonstrated an average SVS/ISCVS runoff score of 7.7 (best possible score, 1; worst possible score, 10). Seven patients (70%) had occlusions of all infrapopliteal arteries. All 10 patients were available for clinical follow-up, and follow-up angiograms were available for eight patients (80%). Clinical failure was defined as recurrence of the clinical signs or symptoms for which the LTA was performed. After 6 months of follow-up clinical failures occurred in nine patients (90%). Four patients had no clinical improvement. Five patients had transient clinical improvement after LTA, and all subsequently had early recurrence of symptoms. The average time from LTA to recurrence of symptoms was 1.7 months. Seven patients had subsequent bypasses or amputations an average of 2.2 months after laser angioplasty. The SFA patency rate by life-table analysis was 25% at 6 months. The single patient with clinical success (at 12 months) had no tibial vessel disease evident on his prelaser angiogram, and he underwent a concomitant inflow procedure at the time of his LTA. We believe that the disappointing results in this small series of patients can be attributed to tibial vessel disease that was not addressed by this technique.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526233 TI - A confidence profile analysis of the results of femoropopliteal percutaneous transluminal angioplasty in the treatment of lower-extremity ischemia. AB - The many reports on the use of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) for treating lower-extremity ischemia were analyzed to determine the outcomes of femoropopliteal PTA used in patients with intermittent claudication (IC) and with more severe limb-threatening ischemia ("salvage"). The Confidence Profile Method was used to interpret and adjust the evidence from 12 selected clinical reports, and to combine the data into single best estimates of the outcomes that were considered important for decision making. The following combined estimates were obtained: The early success rate was 89% +/- 2.5% after PTA for IC, compared with 77% +/- 4% after PTA for salvage. The largest decline in patency occurred during the first 6 to 12 months. After 2 years there was little further attrition. Three year patency was 62% +/- 9% for IC and 43% +/- 7% for salvage. The risk of procedure-related mortality and limb loss was low, estimated at 0.5% and 1%, respectively. The risk of serious complications requiring surgical repair was about 2.5%. The Confidence Profile Method is a novel way of obtaining this information from the imperfect clinical literature. The method incorporates subjective judgments and assumptions and gives quantitative and visual representations of both the magnitude of the estimated outcome and the uncertainty associated with it. The results are as strong as the assumptions incorporated in them are valid. The estimates derived in this study can be used for any decision on the use of PTA in the femoropopliteal segment. PMID- 2526234 TI - Claudication in young adults: a frequently delayed diagnosis. AB - Arterial occlusive disease of the lower extremities is uncommon in young adults. Between 1983 and 1988 we undertook an aggressive approach to the diagnosis and treatment of claudication in young patients. Thirty-three patients (30 men and three women) with the onset of significant claudication at age 40 years or younger underwent arteriography after noninvasive evaluation. The mean duration of symptoms was 2 years, and six patients had suffered claudication for 4 years or longer. Atherosclerotic occlusive disease was found in 19 patients (58%), delayed presentation of traumatic occlusion was found in four (12%), congenital arteriopathy was found in four (12%), vasculitis was found in five (15%), and one patient (3%) had normal arteriogram results despite a history and physical examination that suggested inflow disease. Management included percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) in eight patients (24%) and operative reconstruction in 17 (52%). Seven patients (21%) were treated nonoperatively (five had unreconstructible distal disease and two declined operation). During a mean follow-up of 33 months, three patients who continued to smoke required either repeat PTA or operation for recurrent disease, one patient underwent repeat aortic reconstruction for early operative failure, and one patient with vasculitis required revision of an in situ vein graft for aneurysmal dilatation. The success rates of PTA and surgical reconstruction were encouraging. However, in the group with atherosclerotic occlusive vascular disease, the inability to abstain from smoking suggests a poor prognosis for long-term success. PMID- 2526236 TI - Physicians with Georgia on their minds. PMID- 2526235 TI - Thromboembolic potential of synthetic vascular grafts in baboons. AB - We have compared in baboons the capacity of two types of synthetic vascular grafts to accumulate thrombus, activate circulating platelets, and generate occlusive platelet microemboli. Grafts were incorporated into femoral arterial arterial shunts placed unilaterally in 10 baboons; the unoperated contralateral limbs served as controls. The accumulation of indium 111 (111In)-labeled platelets onto the grafts (expanded polytetrafluoroethylene [ePTFE] or knitted Dacron, 4 mm inner diameter) and the appearance of 111In radioactivity in distal microcirculatory beds (calf and foot) were quantified by dynamic scintillation camera imaging. After 1 hour total platelet deposition per graft was higher with Dacron (49.0 +/- 8.0 x 10(9) platelets) than with ePTFE (3.7 +/- 0.6 x 10(9) platelets, p less than 0.01). Platelet counts decreased and beta-thromboglobulin levels increased with Dacron graft placement but were unaffected by ePTFE graft placement (p less than 0.05 and p less than 0.01, respectively). Emboli shed from Dacron grafts were detected as multifocal, irregular, and changing deposits in the calves and feet. Indium 111 platelet activity in the feet distal to the Dacron grafts increased 81.1% +/- 21.4% from baseline values over 1 hour, whereas the activities in the feet distal to the ePTFE grafts were unchanged (p less than 0.05). The increase 111In-platelet radioactivity above the control limb values (excess radioactivity) was higher for the Dacron graft group than for the ePTFE group in both the feet (139.6% +/- 46.9% vs 6.2%, p less than 0.05) and the calves (86.7% +/- 21.7% vs 7.3% +/- 3.6%, p less than 0.05).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526237 TI - HLA and immune response. PMID- 2526238 TI - Selenium and myocardial infarction. PMID- 2526239 TI - Comparative evaluation of two once-a-month contraceptive injections. AB - Two once-a-month preparations cyclo provera (Depo-medroxy Progesterone Acetate 25 mg and Estradiol Cypionate 5 mg) and HRP-102 (Norethisterone enanthate 50 mg and Estradiol Valerate 5 mg) were tried in two groups of women by random allocation, and their effectiveness, complaints and reasons for discontinuation were studied. A total of 206 women were admitted (104 on cyclo provera and 102 on HRP-102) and studied for one year. There was little difference in the efficacy and side effects between the two preparations. One pregnancy occurred with HRP-102 giving a pregnancy rate of 1.4%. The overall discontinuation rates at 1 year were 57.6% for cycloprovera and 54.9% for HRP-102. The discontinuation rates for bleeding irregularities, were 21.2% and 21.8% respectively for cycloprovera and HRP-102. Five women discontinued due to lack of bleeding or amenorrhoea. The respective figures were 4 and 1 for cyclo provera and HRP-102. Both products were highly effective and, if introduced in the national Family Planning Programme, they will fulfill an important role (JPMA 39:98, 1989). PMID- 2526240 TI - A case of myocardial damage following acute paracetamol poisoning. AB - A 24-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital with acute paracetamol poisoning, and severe hepatic injury. The peak blood level of GOT, GPT and LDH were 32,600 U, 119,200 U and 36,500 U respectively. Glucagon-insulin and glutathione were administered to save the liver function. On the third hospital day, hemodialysis was administered to treat acute renal failure. On the 16th hospital day, when the liver and renal functions recovered, severe pulmonary congestion occurred and right heart catheterization revealed high pulmonary pressure. Echocardiography showed left ventricular enlargement accompanied by a severe diffuse impairment of left ventricular wall motion. Multi-focal ventricular arrhythmia was frequent during this period. Hemodialysis and artificial respiration were carried out for the treatment of heart failure. Three months after admission, myocardial perfusion scintigram showed patchy reduction in the uptake of Tl-201 throughout the myocardium, and left ventriculography showed mild diffuse impairment of the LV wall motion (ejection fraction: 49%). In this case, acute heart failure appeared approximately 2 weeks after the severe hepatic injury. Apparently myocardial damage following paracetamol overdosage is caused not only by direct toxicity but by severe metabolic derangement. PMID- 2526241 TI - [Clinical evaluation of clarithromycin, a new macrolide antibiotic in children]. AB - A new oral macrolide, clarithromycin (TE-031, A-56268), was evaluated for its safety, efficacy and pharmacokinetics in 33 children. TE-031 was effective in all cases of mycoplasmal pneumonia, pneumococcal pneumonia, streptococcal pharyngitis, pertussis and Campylobacter gastroenteritis. The pharmacokinetic availability of TE-031 granule and tablets was much better than the older macrolides; serum half-lives of TE-031 averaged 3.2 +/- 0.25 hours (for the granule preparation). No clinical adverse reaction was encountered, but cases of transient mild elevation of the serum GPT (2 cases) and eosinophilia (2 cases) were encountered. From these preliminary data, TE-031 seems to have a place in the treatment of pediatric infectious diseases. PMID- 2526242 TI - [Laboratory and clinical studies on clarithromycin in pediatrics]. AB - Clarithromycin (TE-031, A-56268) is a new 14-membered ring macrolide antibiotic developed by Taisho Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. TE-031 has a methoxy group at position 6 in its structure. In the present study, we carried out laboratory and clinical investigations on TE-031 in the field of pediatrics. The obtained results are summarized as follows. The antibacterial activity of TE-031 was investigated against 16 clinically isolated strains of Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Haemophilus influenzae, Bordetella pertussis and Campylobacter jejuni. TE-031 showed antibacterial activity comparable to erythromycin. The pattern of changes in TE-031 concentrations in the blood after administration was investigated. In subjects administered the granular preparation of TE-031, Cmax values were 0.64 micrograms/ml in 1 subject given a 5 mg/kg dosage, and 5.94 and 9.02 micrograms/ml in 2 subjects administered with 10 mg/kg. The tablet form of TE-031 was administered to 3 subjects at 5 mg/kg, and Cmax values were 2.09-3.92 micrograms/ml, while T 1/2 values were in a range of 2.9-3.8 hours. When drug concentrations in the urine were investigated, it was found that 6-hour recovery rates were 9.9% (dose: 5 mg/kg) and 53.4% (dose: 10 mg/kg) in the subjects administered the granular form, whereas recovery rates averaged 36.8% in the tablet-administered subjects. In the clinical trial, TE-031 was administered in 2-3 doses/day for 2-18 days. In cases given the granular form, dosages were 12-38 mg/kg/day, while tablets were administered at 12-29 mg/kg/day. The overall clinical efficacy rate was 92.8%, i.e., the drug was effective in 64 of 69 patients. TE-031 was ineffective in 1 case of otitis media, but efficacious in 10 of 10 (100%) cases of upper respiratory infection, 15 of 18 (83.3%) cases of bronchitis and pneumonia, 5 of 6 (83.3%) cases of pertussis, 13 of 13 (100%) cases of mycoplasmal pneumonia, 4 of 4 (100%) cases of Chlamydia psittaci pneumonia, 16 of 16 (100%) cases of gastroenteritis (including 15 cases of Campylobacter gastroenteritis), and 1 (100%) case of impetigo. In bacteriological studies conducted on the patients, the overall elimination rate was 93.1%, i.e., bacterial elimination was obtained in 27 of 29 cases. TE-031 showed especially good bacteriological efficacy (100%) against C. jejuni and B. pertussis, which were eliminated from all of 15 and 2 cases examined, respectively.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2526243 TI - [Pharmacokinetic, bacteriological and clinical studies in the pediatric field on clarithromycin]. AB - Pharmacokinetic, bacteriological and clinical studies were carried out on clarithromycin (TE-031, A-56268) in the pediatric field and following results were obtained. 1. Peak concentrations of TE-031 in the serum occurred at 1-2 hours after administration of 10 mg/kg in granular form and at 2 hours after administration of 20 mg/kg in granular form. Half-lives of the drug in serum were 2.5-3.3 hours in cases of 10 mg/kg dosage and 5.5 hour in case of 20 mg/kg dosage. TE-031 tablets were administered in a dosage between 1.7 and 5.0 mg/kg and peak concentrations in the serum occurred at 0.5-2 hours. Half-lives were 2.0 4.3 hours. 2. Urinary recovery rates obtained upon administration of TE-031 granule during the first 6 hours after administration were 20.3-62.9%, while they were 11.6-42.4% with TE-031 tablets. 3. Antibacterial activity of TE-031 against Campylobacter jejuni was equal to that of erythromycin and slightly superior to those of josamycin, midecamycin acetate and rokitamycin. 4. Bacteriological efficacy rate of TE-031 on 8 species of bacteria isolated from various samples was 88.4% and clinical efficacy rate on 66 cases (upper/lower respiratory tract infections, mycoplasmal pneumonia, Campylobacter enteritis, et al.) was 100%. 5. TE-031 was administered in dosages of 6.8-42.3 mg/kg/day (mostly 20-30 mg/kg/day) 3 times a day and lengths of administration ranged from 4 to 15 days. 6. Side effects due to TE-031 were observed in 1 case each of transient symptom and abnormal clinical laboratory test value. According to the above results, TE-031 was recognized as a useful antibiotic for the treatment of infections in the pediatric field. PMID- 2526244 TI - [Basic and clinical studies on clarithromycin in pediatrics]. AB - Clarithromycin (TE-031, A-56268) is a new macrolide antibiotic developed by Taisho Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. Basic and clinical studies in the field of pediatrics were carried out on a granular preparation and 50 mg tablets of TE-031 designed for use in children. The following results were obtained. 1. Concentrations of TE-031 in the serum and its excretion in the urine were investigated in children. Six children were orally administered with a TE-031 granular preparation at 10 mg/kg in a cross-over study 30 minutes before meal and 30 minutes after meal. When the drug was ingested before meal, the mean peak serum concentration occurred 1 hour later and was 5.32 +/- 1.20 micrograms/ml. The mean half-life of TE-031 in the serum was 3.6 +/- 1.0 hours, and drug levels decreased to 1.94 +/- 0.55 micrograms/ml at 6 hours after dosing. In cases of the postprandial administration, the mean peak serum level was 4.21 +/- 1.25 micrograms/ml, occurring 2 hours after ingestion. The mean serum half-life in these cases was 3.5 +/- 1.3 hours, and serum levels decreased to 1.66 +/- 0.47 micrograms/ml at 6 hours after dosing. Mean urinary recovery rates during the initial 6 hours after ingestion were 30.5 +/- 6.4% in the cases of preprandial administration and 34.7 +/- 7.3% with postprandial administration. In addition, 30 minutes before meal, 50 mg tablets of TE-031 were orally administered to 3 children in a dose level equivalent to approximately 10 mg/kg, followed by monitoring of serum and urinary levels. It was found that the mean serum concentration showed a peak value of 4.10 +/- 0.44 micrograms/ml at 2 hours after dosing, the mean serum half-life was 3.5 +/- 0.7 hours, and the mean level fell to 1.90 +/- 0.55 micrograms/ml by 6 hours after dosing. The mean 6-hour urinary recovery rate was 32.7 +/- 12.1%. On the basis of the above results, it has been surmised that, in comparison to conventional macrolide antibiotics. TE-031 is better maintained in the blood at a high concentration and is more efficiently excreted into the urine. In addition, the data show that the bioavailability of TE-031 is slightly superior when the drug is administered on an empty stomach compared with after a meal. And finally, it was found that the granular and 50 mg tablet preparations of TE-031 are almost equivalent in terms of the absorption and the excretion of the drug.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2526246 TI - [Experience with clarithromycin in pediatric patients]. AB - Clarithromycin (TE-031, A-56268), a newly synthesized macrolide antibiotic, was administered to children and its efficacy was examined. The clinical efficacy rate of TE-031 was 88.5% in 26 patients with pediatric infections. This rate was regarded as quite high. A side effect, transaminase elevation, was observed in 1 out of the 26 patients but it was subsided after a cessation of the antibiotic treatment. TE-031 was considered to be effective antibiotic for the infectious disease in the pediatric fields because of highly efficacy rate. PMID- 2526245 TI - [Laboratory and clinical studies on clarithromycin in the field of pediatrics]. AB - Laboratory and clinical studies on clarithromycin (TE-031, A-56268), a new macrolide antibiotic, were carried out in the field of pediatrics. The results obtained are summarized as follows: 1. Serum concentrations, urinary concentrations and urinary recovery rates were determined upon oral administration on fasting of TE-031 at doses of 5 mg/kg granules in 1 case and tablets in 2 cases, and 10 mg/kg granules in 1 and 15 mg/kg granules in 1. Peak serum levels were obtained at 30 minutes in 2 cases, at 1 hour in 2 cases and at 2 hours in 1 case after administration of the drug with a range of 2.29-7.10 micrograms/ml with half-lives of 2.2-7.5 hours. Urinary recovery rates in 6 hours after administration ranged from 7.1-34.5%. 2. MICs of TE-031 against 49 clinical isolates (Streptococcus pyogenes 5 strains, Streptococcus pneumoniae 9, Staphylococcus aureus 3, Branhamella catarrhalis 4, Haemophilus influenzae 14, Haemophilus parainfluenzae 7, and Campylobacter jejuni 7) were compared with those of josamycin (JM), erythromycin (EM), and ampicillin (ABPC). The antibacterial activity of TE-031 was superior to those of JM and equal to those of EM. 3. Fifty-five pediatric patients with acute infectious diseases (scarlet fever 3 cases, pharyngitis and tonsillitis 15, pertussis 2, pneumonia 10, bronchitis 14, Campylobacter enteritis 11) were treated with TE-031 at daily doses of 10-35 mg/kg t.i.d. as a rule. The efficacy rates were 96% clinically and 72% bacteriologically. 4. Side effects or abnormal laboratory test values were not observed. 5. None of children refused TE-031. PMID- 2526247 TI - [Clinical evaluation of clarithromycin in pediatric patients]. AB - A clinical evaluation of clarithromycin (TE-031, A-56268), a newly synthesized macrolide antibiotic, was made for its efficacy and safety in 30 patients with ages ranging from 8 month-old to 12 year- 2 month-old with mycoplasmal and bacterial infections. The obtained results are summarized below. 1. A pharmacokinetic study following oral administration of TE-031 at 10 mg/kg (granule) or 5.5 mg/kg (tablet) resulted in blood concentrations and urinary recovery rates higher than with other macrolides. 2. TE-031 was administered orally to 5 patients with Mycoplasma pneumonia, 21 patients with pneumonia or bronchopneumonia, 2 patients with pertussis and 2 patients with enterocolitis at daily dosages ranging 11.1-31.6 mg/kg divided into 3. Clinical evaluations of these 30 patients were as follows; excellent: 19 patients, good: 11 patients. The efficacy rate was 100%. 3. Neither clinical adverse reaction nor abnormal laboratory data was found in any of these 30 patients. 4. MICs of TE-031 against 10 strains of bacteria isolated from 10 patients with pneumonia or bronchopneumonia were as follows. MICs against 3, 2 and 2 out of 7 strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae were less than 0.025 microgram/ml, 0.05 microgram/ml and 0.10 microgram/ml, respectively. MIC against a strain of Haemophilus influenzae was 3.13 micrograms/ml. MICs of 2 strains of Branhamella catarrhalis were 0.20 microgram/ml. 5. TE-031 is considered to be a new useful and safe antibiotic in pediatric patient with an excellent bactericidal capacity. PMID- 2526248 TI - [Laboratory and clinical studies of clarithromycin in pediatric fields]. AB - We have carried out laboratory and clinical studies on clarithromycin (TE-031, A 56268). The results are summarized as follows. Serum and urinary concentrations of TE-031 were determined in 5 children with ages between 6 and 11 years given single oral doses of 5, 6.7, 10 and 15 mg/kg. Serum concentrations peaked at 1 hour after administration of 5, 6.7 and 15 mg/kg, and respective peak values were 1.98 micrograms/ml, 2.21 micrograms/ml and 5.58 micrograms/ml. Biological half lives for the drug at 5, 6.7 and 15 mg/kg dose were 2.99 hours, 2.08 hours and 2.09 hours, respectively. Mean serum concentrations peaked at 2 hours after administration of 10 mg/kg, and peak values were 3.91 +/- 1.64 micrograms/ml. Biological half-lives were 3.00 +/- 0.58 hours. The 6-hour urinary recovery rates ranged from 22.7% to 23.8% after administration of 10 mg/kg, and the 6-hour urinary recoveries were 30.1%, 20.5% and 39.1% after administration of 5 mg/kg, 6.7 mg/kg and 15 mg/kg, respectively. Therapeutic responses were recorded as excellent or good in 35(89.7%) of the children, comprising 5 with tonsillitis, 3 with pharyngitis, 7 with bronchitis, 5 with pneumonia, 15 with Mycoplasma pneumonia, 1 with whooping cough and 3 with Campylobacter enteritis. The microbiological effectiveness of TE-031 on identified pathogens comprising 2 strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae, 5 strains of Haemophilus influenzae, 2 strains of Haemophilus parainfluenzae, 5 strains of Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Campylobacter spp. was satisfactory as evidenced by an eradication rate of 82.4%. No significant side effect due to the drug was observed in any cases. In conclusion, TE-031 was found to be efficacious and safe for the treatment of bacterial infections in children. PMID- 2526249 TI - [Clinical study of clarithromycin, a new macrolide antibiotic, in children]. AB - 1. Clarithromycin (TE-031, A-56268) was given orally to 46 children with respiratory infections, skin infections and others. A total of 9 patients were excluded; 8 patients refused to take the drug because of it's taste, and 1 patient was later found to have viral pneumonia. Clinical efficacy was therefore evaluated in remaining 37 cases and was good or excellent in 27 cases. 2. Bacteriologically, Haemophilus influenzae strains isolated from 4 patients were eradicated in 1 and decreased in 3, respectively. Haemophilus parainfluenzae and Staphylococcus aureus isolated from 1 patient each were both eradicated. 3. Side effect or abnormal laboratory test values were not observed. 4. Based on the above findings, it appears that TE-031 is a safe and is useful antibiotic for the treatment of mild and moderate respiratory infections. It is necessary, however, to improve the taste of the current granule preparation in order to make the drug more easily palatable to children. PMID- 2526250 TI - [A clinical study on clarithromycin especially on its granular form for children in pediatrics]. AB - Clarithromycin (TE-031, A-56268), a new macrolide antibiotic, was administered to a total of 25 child patients (age range: 4 months-12 years) to treat infections; the patients consisted of 23 children who received the drug in the form of granules for children and 2 patients who were given tablets. Daily dosages were 14.3 mg/kg (in 2 divided doses) in 1 patient, and 18.3-30.3 mg/kg (in 3 divided doses) in the other 24 patients. Lengths of administration ranged from 4 to 13 days with 6-8 days for 18 of the patients. The results obtained are summarized as follows. 1. Clinical efficacy evaluations for various infections were as follows: 1 excellent, 4 good and 2 fair cases in 7 cases of pertussis; 3 excellent, 2 good and 1 fair cases in 6 cases of tonsillitis; 1 good case in tonsillitis with bronchitis; 1 excellent and 3 good cases in 4 cases of bronchitis; 1 excellent and 1 good cases in 2 cases of pneumonia; and 4 excellent and 1 good cases in 5 cases of enteritis. Thus, evaluations of a total of 25 patients showed 10 excellent, 12 good and 3 fair cases, with no poor cases. The overall clinical efficacy rate was, therefore, 88.0%. These results were attributed to good antimicrobial activity and absorption of TE-031. 2. Causative bacteria were isolated from 12 of the patients. Bacteriological efficacies of TE-031 on those strains were investigated with the following results. Of 5 Haemophilus influenzae strains, 3 were eliminated, 1 was reduced, and no change was observed in the other.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526251 TI - [Clinical experience with clarithromycin in the pediatric field]. AB - Clarithromycin (TE-031, A-56268) was orally administered to 20 children with the following acute bacterial infections; 1 case of acute pharyngitis, 3 cases of acute tonsillitis, 11 cases of acute bronchitis, 1 case of exacerbation of chronic bronchitis, 1 case of acute bronchopneumonia, 2 cases of Mycoplasma pneumonia and 1 case of impetigo. Clinical effectiveness was obtained in 15 out of the 20 cases (75.0%). No clinical side effects and laboratory abnormalities were observed. The above results suggest that TE-031 is a useful antibiotics for treating pediatric patients with various bacterial infections. PMID- 2526252 TI - [Basic and clinical studies on use of clarithromycin granules in pediatrics]. AB - Studies were conducted on in vivo pharmacokinetics of clarithromycin (TE-031, A 56268) in children and also on the efficacy and the safety of this macrolide antibiotic in the treatment of bacterial infections in children. The results obtained are summarized as follows: 1. TE-031 granules were orally administered to 5 children in a dosage of 5 mg/kg before meal. Maximum drug concentrations (range: 0.29-2.0 micrograms/ml) in the serum occurred during a period from 30 minutes to 1 hour after administration, but there were clear differences in blood concentrations among the individuals. 2. TE-031 granules were orally administered in a average dosage of 20 mg/kg/day to a total of 17 patients, consisting of 14 children with respiratory tract infections and 3 children with intestinal infections. The clinical efficacy evaluation resulted in 10 excellent cases, 6 good cases and 1 fair case, for an efficacy rate of 94.1%. 3. Studies on the bacterial efficacy were carried out for 10 cases. The TE-031 bacteriological efficacy evaluation showed elimination in 7 cases, a decreased bacterial count in 2 cases, and no change in 1 case. The elimination rate was, thus, 70.0%. Elimination rates according to different species of bacteria were 66.7% (2 of 3 strains) for Staphylococcus aureus, 100% for both Streptococcus pneumoniae (3 of 3) and Streptococcus pyogenes (1 of 1), and 42.9% (3 of 7) for Haemophilus influenzae. 4. There were no symptoms which were attributable to side effects of the TE-031 therapy. The only laboratory test abnormality detected was eosinophilia in 1 patient. PMID- 2526253 TI - [Clinical efficacy of clarithromycin in the field of pediatrics]. AB - A new macrolide antibiotic, clarithromycin (TE-031, A-56268), was studied for its clinical efficacy in the field of pediatrics. Patients treated were infants and children ranging from 2 months to 11 years old suffering from acute bronchitis in 5 cases, acute tonsillitis in 2 cases, Mycoplasma pneumonia in 2 cases, pertussis in 6 cases, scarlatina in 1 case and acute enteritis in 2 cases, a total of 18 cases. TE-031 was administered 19.7-43.5 mg/kg in daily doses and lengths of treatment ranged from 4 to 19 days. As regards to its clinical efficacy, good or excellent results were obtained in all cases: excellent in 11 cases and good in 7 cases. No clinical side effects nor abnormal laboratory test values obviously attributable to TE-031 were observed. PMID- 2526254 TI - [Clinical observations with clarithromycin in pediatrics]. AB - Clarithromycin (TE-031, A-56268) was given orally to 25 children with acute bacterial infections including 5 with bronchitis, 8 with pneumonia, 4 with Mycoplasma pneumonia, 2 with pertussis and 6 with Campylobacter enteritis. Good to excellent clinical responses were obtained in 22 patients with bacterial eradication of all 10 strains. No side effect was observed. From the above clinical results, it appears that TE-031 is a useful antibiotic for the treatment of pediatrics with various bacterial infections. PMID- 2526255 TI - [A clinical evaluation of clarithromycin in the treatment of pediatric infections]. AB - Clarithromycin (TE-031, A-56268) granules were used to treat various infections in the pediatric field and the results obtained are summarized as follows. 1. TE 031 was administered to a total of 10 patients (5 cases of enteritis, 4 cases of bronchitis and 1 case of tonsillitis). Clinical efficacies were excellent in 6 patients and good in 4 with an efficacy rate of 100%. 2. Neither side effects nor abnormal laboratory test values were observed. There was no rejection of drug disturbing the therapy. PMID- 2526256 TI - [Clinical study on clarithromycin granule and tablet in the field of pediatrics]. AB - A newly developed macrolide clarithromycin (TE-031, A-56268), with antibacterial spectrum and antibacterial activity nearly equal to those of erythromycin (EM), shows beneficial characteristics such as a higher blood level, higher recovery rate in urine, and better penetration into each tissue than conventional macrolides (MLs). TE-031 has been studied in adults against various infections and proved to be useful. The present paper describes the results of a study in children to examine the usefulness of TE-031 granules and tablets with a potency of 50 mg. TE-031 granules were administered to 132 children with ages from 6 months to 13 years and 10 months. Excluded from the evaluation were 12 cases in which clinical effects were deemed unevaluable. The evaluable subjects consisted of 1 case with pharyngitis, 3 with tonsillitis, 9 with acute bronchitis, 19 with pneumonia, 19 with mycoplasmal pneumonia, 2 with scarlet fever, 20 with Campylobacter enteritis, 11 with impetigo, 2 with subcutaneous abscess, 18 with primary atypical pneumonia and 16 with acute enteritis of unidentified pathogens; a total of 120 subjects. An average daily dose of TE-031 was 25.9 mg/kg, divided into 3 doses except 1 case with 2 daily doses and lengths of the treatment averaged 7 days. TE-031 tablets each containing 50 mg potency, were administered to 49 subjects with ages from 3 year and a month to 14 years consisting of 8 cases with pharyngitis, 1 with tonsillitis, 1 with acute bronchitis, 4 with pneumonia, 14 with mycoplasmal pneumonia, 4 with scarlet fever, 5 with Campylobacter enteritis, 7 with impetigo, 1 with atypical pneumonia, 1 with Salmonella gastroenteritis and 3 with acute enteritis caused by unidentified pathogens, at an average daily dose of 13.5 mg/kg dived into 2-4 doses (2 doses/day for 12 cases, 3 doses for 32, 4 doses for 5) for 7 days on the average. In addition to examine the clinical and bacteriological effects of the 2 dosage forms of TE-031, minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) were determined for 9 antibiotics consisting of 5 MLs including TE-031, EM, josamycin (JM), midecamycin acetate (MDM acetate), and rokitamycin (RKM), 3 penicillins including ampicillin (ABPC), methicillin, cloxacillin and 1 cephem antibiotic, cefaclor (CCL), against 29 strains consisting of 12 strains of Staphylococcus aureus, 7 of Streptococcus pyogenes, 2 of Streptococcus pneumonia 2 of Haemophilus influenzae and 6 of Campylobacter jejuni, out of 71 strains of pathogens or possible pathogens that had been isolated from the cases given TE-031. PMID- 2526257 TI - [Pharmacokinetics of clarithromycin granule and tablet in children]. AB - It has been known that clarithromycin (TE-031, A-56268), a new macrolide antibiotic (ML), achieves higher concentrations in blood, is better excreted into urine and is better distributed into various tissues than conventional MLs. We investigated the pharmacokinetics of TE-031 in children upon oral administration of the drug in the following method. TE-031 granular preparation with a potency of 100 mg/g was given to 6 boys (5 years 4 months-14 years 0 month) with dose levels of 5 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg for each 3 boys. A tablet preparation with each tablet containing 50 mg of TE-031 was administered to 4 boys and 2 girls (8 years 5 months-11 years 6 months) with dose level of 2 tablets (i.e., 100 mg) and 3 tablets (i.e., 150 mg) for each 3 children. All administrations were done at 30 minutes before meal. Then, to conduct a cross-over test, the granule preparation was given orally to the 3 children mentioned above who was given 2 tablets and the 1 of 3 cases that were given 3 tablets at the same dose levels (100 mg and 150 mg) respectively. A bioassay was used to determine concentrations in blood of active antibiotic compounds and an high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to determine unchanged TE-031 and its main metabolite, M-5. Urinary concentrations of active antibiotic compounds were also determined by the bioassay and the HPLC was used to determine concentrations and proportions of unchanged TE-031 and its metabolites, M-1, M-4, M-5, M-6 and M-7 to figure out the urinary recovery rate in the first 6 hours. The results of these experiments are summarized as follows. 1. As was mentioned above, TE-031 was administered orally to 2 groups of children at dose levels of 5 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg, respectively. Mean serum levels of total active antibiotic compounds reached their maximum in 1 and 2 hours for the 5 mg/kg and the 10 mg/kg dosage groups, respectively, at 1.28 and 3.62 micrograms/ml, respectively. Mean half lives of serum concentrations in the 2 groups were quite similar, with values of at 2.1 and 2.0 hours, respectively. Mean serum concentrations of unchanged TE-031 determined by the HPLC method reached their peaks in 1 hour after administration in either of the 5 and 10 mg/kg dosage groups at peak levels of 0.65 micrograms/ml and 2.67 micrograms/ml, respectively. Thus, dose-response relationships were observed with TE-031 and M-5.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2526258 TI - [Pharmacokinetic and clinical studies of clarithromycin in the pediatric field]. AB - Pharmacokinetic and clinical studies on clarithromycin (TE-031, A-56268), a new macrolide antibiotic, were performed in the pediatric field. 1. Pharmacokinetic investigation We studied serum concentrations and urinary excretions after single oral administration of TE-031 granules and tablets. Doses were 1, 5, 10 and 15 mg/kg body weight in case of granules (10% TE-031) and 150 mg/kg body weight in case of tablets (50 mg TE-031, 3 tablets). As results, Tmax's were 1-2 hours after administration in case of both granules and tablets. Cmax's in cases of granules were 0.29 +/- 0.15 micrograms/ml in 1 mg/kg administration, 2.53 +/- 0.71 micrograms/ml in 5 mg/kg, 4.11 +/- 1.37 micrograms/ml in 10 mg/kg, 6.28 +/- 1.48 micrograms/ml in 15 mg/kg showing a dose dependency. T 1/2's were 1.8-6.5 hours in cases of 1, 5, 10, 15 mg/kg of granules and tablets. T 1/2's became longer with increased doses. Urinary recoveries were 9.4 +/- 2.4% to 31.6 +/- 19.0% in 6 hours after administration. 2. Clinical investigation Clinical study was carried out in 24 patients of respiratory infections. Clinical efficacies were excellent in 11 patients, good in 12 patients and fair in 1 patient. The clinical efficacy rate was 95.8%. No side effects were observed. The above results suggest that TE-031 is a useful oral antibiotic for treating pediatric respiratory infections, especially those due to Mycoplasma pneumoniae. PMID- 2526259 TI - [Bacteriological, pharmacokinetic and clinical studies on clarithromycin in the pediatric field. Pediatric Study Group of Clarithromycin]. AB - Clarithromycin (TE-031, A-56268), a new macrolide antibiotic agent, was evaluated bacteriologically and clinically for its efficacy and safety in pediatrics by a study group organized with pediatricians from all over the country. A summary of the results of the evaluation is as follows. 1. Absorption and excretion Pharmacokinetics of TE-031 was examined by single oral administration of 10% granules and 50 mg tablets at doses of 1, 5, 10 and 15 mg/kg. There were no significant differences between 10% granules and 50 mg tablets, and between administrations before and after meal. Peaks and half-life periods of blood level of TE-031 given once at doses of 5, 10 and 15 mg/kg (10% granules) before meal were 1.58, 4.37 and 3.79 micrograms/ml, and 2.53, 3.17 and 2.20 hours, respectively, and the urinary excretion in 6 hours after the administration were about 20-30%. 2. Antibacterial effects TE-031 was proved to have excellent antibacterial effect, i.e., inhibiting growth over 80% of strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae and Streptococcus pyogenes at 0.10 micrograms/ml, Branhamella catarrhalis at 0.39 micrograms/ml, and Campylobacter jejuni at 0.78 micrograms/ml. Against Staphylococcus aureus, TE-031 showed very similar activity spectrum to EM, and EM resistant strains were also resistant to TE-031. 3. Clinical results A total of 764 cases was studied. Clinical effects of TE-031 were evaluated in 717 cases out of the 764, excluding drop-outs and cases which did not meet specified protocols. Clinically, efficacies of TE-031 were "excellent" in 265 cases and "good" in 161 cases out of 453 cases of Group A in which causal agents were identified, with an efficacy rate of 94.0%, and out of 264 cases of Group B in which pathogens were not detected, clinical effects of TE 031 were "excellent" in 115 cases and "good" in 124 cases, with an efficacy rate of 90.5%. In terms of clinical effects of TE-031 classified by diseases when Group A and B were combined, efficacy rates were 91.6% for upper respiratory tract infection (217/237), 90.0% for bacterial pneumonia (108/120), 97.4% for Mycoplasma pneumonia (111/114), 100% for Chlamydia pneumonia (4/4), 85.0% for pertussis (34/40), 100% for scarlet fever (16/16), 83.9% for skin and soft tissue infection (26/31), and 98.9% for Campylobacter enteritis (87/88).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2526260 TI - [Antimycoplasmal activities of ofloxacin and commonly used antimicrobial agents on Mycoplasma gallisepticum]. AB - In vitro activities of ofloxacin (OFLX), a new quinolone derivative, against 29 strains of Mycoplasma gallisepticum was compared with those of 4 commonly used antimicrobial agents, doxycycline (DOXY), tylosin (TS), spectinomycin (SPCM) and thiamphenicol (TP). Antimycoplasmal activities of the drugs were evaluated on the MIC (final MIC) and MPC (minimum mycoplasmacidal concentration) values which were determined by a broth dilution procedure. The following results were obtained. 1. The MIC90s of OFLX and DOXY were both 0.20 micrograms/ml. The MICs of TS were distributed through a wide range (less than or equal to 0.006 - 0.78 micrograms/ml), and its MIC90 was 0.78 micrograms/ml. Of 29 M. gallisepticum strains, 27.6% were recognized as TS-resistant. The MIC90 values of SPCM and TP were 1.56 micrograms/ml and 3.13 micrograms/ml, respectively. The MIC90 of OFLX was equal to that of DOXY and 4- to 16-fold smaller than the values of the other 3 antibiotics. 2. The MPC of OFLX was the lowest among the antibiotics tested, its MPC90 value was 0.39 micrograms/ml and was followed by DOXY (1.56 micrograms/ml). The MPCs of TS were distributed in a wide range (0.012 - 3.13 micrograms/ml), and its MPC90 was 3.13 micrograms/ml. The MPC90 values of SPCM and TP were both 6.25 micrograms/ml. Therefore, the mycoplasmacidal activity of OFLX evaluated with MPC90 values was 4- to 16-fold greater than those of the other 4 antibiotics. PMID- 2526261 TI - [The regulation of fibrinolysis]. PMID- 2526262 TI - [Molecular structure and function of tissue thromboplastin and thromboplastin inhibitor, calphobindin in blood coagulation and fibrinolysis]. PMID- 2526263 TI - [Molecular markers of hemostatic-mechanisms--plasmin-alpha 2 plasmin inhibitor complex]. PMID- 2526264 TI - [Fc epsilon receptor on lymphocytes in children with bronchial asthma: two color analysis using flow cytometry]. PMID- 2526265 TI - [Long-term results of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty in patients with renovascular hypertension--a follow-up study on renal function and renal size]. AB - Twenty patients with renovascular hypertension were followed for at least 1 year (mean 3.3 years) after successful percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA). Renal arteries were patent in 13 (65%) patients and were re-stenosed in 7 (35%). In 12 patients with unilaterally stenosed renal artery which were patent at the end of the follow up period, 6 patients were normotensive, the other 6 patients had less degree of hypertension. Determinations of renal vein renin were only of limited prognostic value. Renal blood flow pattern by doppler echography improved after PTA in the 12 patients. Radioisotope renogram showed tendency of improved Tmax ratio (stenotic kidney/nonstenotic kidney) from 1.5 +/- 0.8 to 1.0 +/- 0.2 (mean +/- SD, p less than 0.1). Serum creatinine levels decreased significantly from 1.2 +/- 0.5 mg/dl to 1.0 +/- 0.2 mg/dl (p less than 0.05) and creatinine clearance increased from 72.1 +/- 18.5 ml/min to 99.6 +/- 31.7 ml/min (p less than 0.02). The size of the stenosed kidneys increased from 11.2 +/- 0.7 cm to 12.0 +/- 0.8 cm (p less than 0.01), while the size of the contralateral kidneys did not change. These results indicate that PTA has favorable long-term effects on blood pressure and renal function with restoration of renal size in cases with patent renal arteries after this procedure. PMID- 2526266 TI - [Assessment of relative washout rate (rW-R) in stress T1-201 myocardial SPECT]. AB - Stress T1-201 myocardial SPECT was performed and evaluated quantitatively by Bull's eye method in 54 patients with single vessel coronary artery disease (33 angina pectoris, 21 myocardial infarction) who underwent successful PTCA. As the index of myocardial ischemia and viable muscle that was not affected by work load and others, relative washout rate (rW-R) was calculated from the formula: washout rate (W-R) of ischemic area was divided W-R of normal area. The purpose of this study was to examine the significance and usefulness of rW-R. Good correlation was recognized between grade of coronary artery stenosis, severity score (Sv-S) and rW-R in 28 patients with effort angina pectoris (EAP). Therefore, rW-R was regulated with coronary flow in EAP. On the other hand, in 5 patients with vasospastic angina (VSA), there was a tendency that rW-R showed low value compared with Sv-S. It was suggested that rW-R in patients with VSA was regulated not only coronary flow but also other factors. As a result of study before and after successful PTCA, rW-R foresaw the improvement of coronary perfusion and work load capacity by successful PTCA exactly. It was concluded that W-R reflected myocardial ischemia and myocardial viability accurately, and rW-R was a useful clinical index. PMID- 2526267 TI - [The evaluation of left ventricular eccentric hypertrophy by 201Tl-myocardial scintigraphy]. AB - In order to elucidate the mechanism of left ventricular eccentric hypertrophy in conditions of volume overload, Tl-201 myocardial scintigraphy was performed patients with aortic valve regurgitation and mitral valve regurgitation. There was a good relationship between the severity of Tl-defects, as determined by Tl 201 myocardial scintigraphy, and the changes in the T wave on the ECG on the one hand and the NYHA functional classification of heart diseases. In 17 of 18 patients where LVDd increased with increasing severity of Tl-defects and the defects were moderate to severe, LVDd was 65 mm or larger. There was a significant negative correlation between the washout rate for the whole circumference of the left ventricle, as determined by exercise Tl-201 SPECT, and LVDd (r = -0.603, p less than 0.01). The phenomenon of redistribution as determined by exercise Tl-201 myocardial scintigraphy was observed relatively early. Our results suggest that mechanical volume overload and ischemic changes are involved in left ventricular wall damage in left ventricular eccentric hypertrophy. For patients with moderate to severe Tl-defects valve replacement is indicated, no matter whether they may have heart failure or arrhythmia. PMID- 2526268 TI - [Estimation of myocardial viability in left ventricular regions with akinetic wall motion by postextrasystolic potentiation using list-mode radionuclide ventriculography in an interesting case with silent ischemia and with premature ventricular complexes (quadrigeminy)]. AB - For determining an indication of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTCA), a 73-year-old-man with silent ischemia and with ventricular premature complexes (quadrigeminy) were performed cardiac nuclear studies. This case had 99% stenosis in LCX (#11) and 90% stenosis in RCA (#1), and demonstrated akinetic wall motion in left ventricular (LV) inferior and posterior regions. Exercise-redistribution Tl-201 studies indicated myocardial viability in a portion of the inferior wall but not in the posterior wall. To estimate the potential contractile function in the regions with akinesis, from the list-mode data of radionuclide ventriculography, those of postsinus beats and postextrasystolic beats were separately selected and were analyzed for investigating LV wall motion and LV ejection fraction (EF). With the post-extrasystolic potentiation, LVEF increased from 36% to 45% and the systolic wall motion was augmented in the inferior wall but not in the posterior wall. From these findings we recognized the existence of myocardial viability in a portion of the inferior wall. After PTCA for the RCA lesion, improvements of the myocardial Tl-201 distribution and LV wall motion in the inferior wall were definitely observed and hence LVEF increased by 16% to contribute to an increase in exercise performance. Thus, this case indicates that the postextrasystolic potentiation is useful for determining an indication of PTCA in patients with LV asynergy, demonstrating the myocardial viability and the potential LV function. PMID- 2526269 TI - Histamine H2-receptor mediated positive dromotropic effect in the canine atrioventricular node. AB - The role of histamine H2-receptors in AV nodal conduction was estimated in the blood-perfused AV node preparation of the dog. Histamine injected into the AV node artery caused an initial, predominant, dose-related prolongation of the AH interval, which was followed by a slight but significant shortening. Diphenhydramine, an H1-antagonist, abolished the initial prolongation, but the shortening was slightly enhanced. Cimetidine, an H2-antagonist, abolished the shortening and potentiated the initial prolongation. Dimaprit, an H2-agonist, caused only a slight, dose-related shortening of the AH interval, which was abolished by cimetidine. The shortening induced by either histamine or dimaprit was slightly suppressed, but was never abolished by atenolol, a beta-blocker, which completely abolished the noradrenaline-induced shortening. These results indicate that a positive dromotropic effect via H2-receptors exists in the canine AV node, although the main effect of histamine on AV nodal conduction is a negative one via H1-receptors. PMID- 2526271 TI - [Exercise induced hypoxemia and exercise tolerance in patients with COPD and the benefits of oxygen supplementation]. AB - In order to evaluate the benefits of O2 supplementation during exercise, slowly incremental treadmill exercise tests were performed twice with 30 minutes interval rest in fourteen patients with severe COPD. The patients breathed room air. 31/min of compressed air by nasal prongs, and 31/min of supplemental oxygen in single blind fashion at random. The patients who developed arterial desaturation below 88% on exercise, group D, showed slight but significant increase in walked distance (397 m vs 424 m) and significant decrease in breathlessness (22.9 vs 16.9) on oxygen as compared to on air. On the other hand in patients without significant arterial desaturation, group S, there was no improvement in those parameters. The increase in walked distance on oxygen was closely related with the decrease in mean inspiratory flow (VT/Ti), blood lactate level, and CO2 production at identical work load. Plasma human atrial natriuretic peptide (h-ANP) levels in group D increased with exercise from a resting value of 27.6 +/- 6.9 to 44.0 +/- 9.0 on compressed air whereas the increase was significantly suppressed to 35.4 +/- 9.0 on oxygen. In group S there was no difference in the increase of plasma h-ANP levels between air and oxygen breathing during exercise (33.1 +/- 5.1 vs 31.9 +/- 9.6). A close correlation (r = 0.908) was found between mean pulmonary artery pressures and plasma h-ANP levels at rest and during exercise performed in four patients breathing air and oxygen. Those findings suggested that arterial plasma h-ANP levels reflected the right ventricular afterload and that they could be used to evaluate the effectiveness of O2-supplementation during exercise.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526270 TI - Effect of (+/-)-methyl 3-ethyl-2,3,3a,4-tetrahydro-1H-indolo-[3,2,1-de] [1,5] naphthyridine-6-carboxylate hydrochloride (OM-853), a new vincamine analogue, on the metabolism and function of cerebral serotonergic neurons. AB - Effect of (+/-)-methyl 3-ethyl-2,3,3a,4-tetrahydro-1H-indolo[3,2,1-de] [1,5] naphthyridine-6-carboxylate hydrochloride (OM-853), a new vincamine analogue, on the metabolism and function of cerebral 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) neurons was investigated using male Wistar rats. The single administration of OM-853 (200 mg/kg, p.o.) induced the facilitation of metabolic turnover of 5-HT in various brain areas except the cerebral cortex, pons-medulla and cerebellum. In vitro addition of OM-853 inhibited the uptake of [14C]5-HT in striatal slices only at a high concentration (10(-4) M). On the other hand, a low concentration of OM-853 (10(-8)-10(-6) M) induced the increase of the spontaneous and high K+ (30 mM) evoked releases of [14C]5-HT from striatal slices. OM-853 had more potent inhibitory effect on the binding of [3H]8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)tetralin (8 hydroxy DPAT) to 5-HT1A receptors and/or 5-HT autoreceptors than that of [3H] ketanserin to 5-HT2 receptors. The stimulatory effect of OM-853 (10(-7) M) on [14C]5-HT release was antagonized by 10(-7) M 8-hydroxy DPAT, which is known to act at presynaptic 5-HT autoreceptors as an agonist. These results suggest that OM-853 may induce facilitation of 5-HT turnover by enhancing 5-HT release, probably via the inhibition of presynaptic 5-HT autoreceptor. PMID- 2526272 TI - Whither compensation? PMID- 2526273 TI - [Possibilities of reverse development of left-ventricular hypertrophy in hypertension]. PMID- 2526274 TI - [2 Swiss nurses in Armenia--a mission of mercy]. PMID- 2526275 TI - [Familial deficiency of protein S associated with thrombophilia]. AB - Protein S (SP) is a vitamin K-dependent plasma protein which acts as a cofactor of activated C protein in the inactivation of the factors Va and VIIIa; in addition, it enhances fibrinolysis by increasing the affinity of the enzyme for phospholipid surfaces. The congenital deficiency of SP is an autosomal dominant inherited trait, associated with a high risk of development of thrombotic phenomena at a relatively early age (young adults). We report a Spanish family which carried a congenital deficiency of SP associated with thrombotic complications; for its diagnosis we used the immunological quantification of the levels of free and total SP as well as the evaluation of the immunoelectrophoretic behavior of the inhibitor. PMID- 2526276 TI - [It is not proven that fish liver oil prevents restenosis after coronary vessel angioplasty]. PMID- 2526277 TI - [A promising project: psychotherapy in chronic low back pain]. PMID- 2526278 TI - [A simplified treatment of patients with lumbar pain. Relatively simple measures can save a lot of human suffering]. PMID- 2526279 TI - [The effect of local administration of corticosteroids on the course and therapy of rosacea]. AB - The results of the analysis of 446 patients (305 women and 141 men) with rosacea treated in the Medical cosmetologic section (Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Centre Zagreb) between 1985 and 1986 have been presented. The disease was more common among women than in men. (2.16:1). The duration, localization and clinical picture were typical. The histopathologic analysis was done in 9 patients. Among the 446 rosacea patients, 250 (56.1%) had prolonged therapy with powerful topical corticosteroids. The recommended treatment depended on the severity of the clinical picture consisting of usual local therapy and oral tetracyclines. In the group previously treated with topical corticosteroids, because of more severe clinical picture, tetracyclines were given more frequently (in the 35.6% of cases) than in the other group where the tetracyclines were given in 20.9%. The authors followed-up the duration and treatment success in 275 regularly controlled patients (in 164 with prolonged topical corticosteroid treatment and in 111 without previous corticosteroid treatment). In average, the patients without previous corticosteroid therapy were treated shorter and with better success in contrasts to patients with prolonged topical corticosteroid treatment. The results of the investigation indicate that rosacea patients should not be treated with topical corticosteroids. PMID- 2526280 TI - Antilibidinal drugs and mental retardation: a review. AB - A minority of people with mental retardation have sexual behaviour which is socially unacceptable or which brings them into conflict with the law. Such behaviour may be the result of ignorance about sexual matters, often best managed by counselling or by a behavioural approach. There are a small number of men with mental retardation and aberrant sexual behaviour who benefit from the prescription of an antilibidinal drug. Treatment with an antilibidinal drug alone reduces the intensity of sexual drive but does not alter its direction; concurrent sexual counselling or psychotherapy is often indicated. The various antilibidinal medications available are reviewed, with particular attention to reports which have described the treatment of people with mental retardation. Of the antilibidinals currently used, medroxyprogesterone acetate and cyproterone acetate are those for which there is most evidence of efficacy. Cyproterone acetate is preferable because it has a specific antiandrogenic action and fewer adverse effects. There is a need for controlled studies of antilibidinal drugs, with clearly defined inclusion criteria and adequate measures of both behavioural and attitudinal change. PMID- 2526281 TI - The Escherichia coli enterobactin biosynthesis gene, entD: nucleotide sequence and membrane localization of its protein product. AB - The nucleotide sequence of the Escherichia coli enterobactin biosynthesis gene entD has been determined. entD specifies a predicted 23579 Dalton protein containing several helical regions, a transmembrane segment and one positively charged domain. The EntD polypeptide was overexpressed and identified in electrophoretic gels as a membrane protein. Although results of conventional membrane fractionation techniques were inconclusive, protease accessibility studies provided evidence that EntD domains are exposed on the inner leaflet of the cytoplasmic membrane. The presence of repetitive extragenic palindromic (REP) sequences within the fepA-entD intercistronic region was confirmed. Lack of a canonical promoter and an iron control region 5' to entD, along with RNA hybridization data, suggest that an iron-regulated transcript contains both fepA and entD. PMID- 2526283 TI - Transport-specific fractionation for purification of ATP-dependent Ca2+ pumps. PMID- 2526282 TI - A Yersinia pestis-specific DNA fragment encodes temperature-dependent coagulase and fibrinolysin-associated phenotypes. AB - The effect of temperature on coagulase and fibrinolysin expression (Pla) by Yersinia pestis has been implicated in the transmission of plague by fleas. In an attempt to improve our understanding of this process, we have cloned, sequenced and characterized the gene encoding the Pla phenotypes in Y. pestis, and examined its temperature-dependent regulation. The coding region for this gene overlaps a 900bp Y. pestis-specific DNA fragment that we have previously shown to be capable of detecting plague bacilli in fleas. The pla gene contains a single open reading frame encoding 312 amino acids with a predicted molecular weight of 34.7 kD and a putative signal sequence of 20 amino acids. This coding region appears to be sufficient for both coagulase and fibrinolytic activities. In Y. pestis, modulation between coagulase and fibrinolytic activities is temperature dependent: coagulase activity is most evident at temperatures below 30 degrees C but fibrinolytic activity increases with higher temperatures (greater than 30 degrees C), regardless of the temperature at which the bacteria are grown. Our results lead us to believe that this regulation occurs post-translationally. It is possible that the alternative forms of the Pla protein are essential to 'flea blockage' and subsequent transmission of the plague bacillus to animals. PMID- 2526284 TI - Regulation of membrane transport by endocytotic removal and exocytotic insertion of transporters. PMID- 2526286 TI - Possible organ and age-related epigenetic factors in Huntington's disease and colorectal carcinoma. AB - It is hypothesized that the expression of Huntington's disease and the development of sporadic colorectal carcinomas may largely depend on age-related epigenetic defects in methylation pattern of DNA at the disease associated loci. In the former case the potential defects may be coupled with a DNA demethylation and activation in the brain of a silent growth factor-like gene that may induce an abnormal cell differentiation. In the development of colon carcinomas the age related process may affect potential growth regulatory genes that may normally become demethylated and active in the colon as part of their differential expression. In such a state and possibly also due to their structure, they may be especially prone to the epigenetic defects that may lead in this case to gene point mutation and deletion. PMID- 2526285 TI - Is faulty collagen formation the cause of the exfoliation of the teeth in the Papillon-Lefevre syndrome? PMID- 2526287 TI - Mulberry roots and seeds may be effective in the treatment of AIDS. AB - A natural substance, 1-deoxynojirimycin, found in mulberry roots and seeds may be effective in the treatment of AIDS infection. PMID- 2526288 TI - [The measurement of hepatic circulation before and after orthotopic liver transplantation in dog--by using transit-time blood flow meter and H2 clearance method]. AB - Orthotopic liver transplantation was successfully carried out in 40 mongrel dogs, in which hepatic circulation was investigated before and after grafting. Blood flows in hepatic artery, portal vein and intrahepatic inferior vena cava were measured by using transit-time ultrasonic blood flow meter and regional tissue blood flow was determined by hydrogen gas clearance method. Before transplantation the mean blood flows were 234 +/- 95mg/min in portal vein, 118 +/ 76ml/min in hepatic artery and 291 +/- 103ml/min in inferior vena cava in 40 recipients. The blood flow ratio of portal vein and hepatic artery was 2.9 +/- 2.2. The mean regional blood flow of the liver was 63 +/- 24ml/min/100g. After transplantation, the mean blood flows decreased to 189 +/- 86ml/min in portal vein, 77 +/- 51ml/min in hepatic artery and 179 +/- 111ml/min in inferior vena cava and the regional tissue blood flow was 57 +/- 25ml/min/100g. Hepatic arterial flow decreased by 37 percent after transplantation, however, portal venous flow decreased by 24 percent and the regional blood flow decreased by 9 percent after transplantation of the liver. These data suggested that the microcirculation of the liver was slightly disturbed after liver transplantation in dog, which was in part due to the decreased blood flows of the hepatic artery and portal vein. PMID- 2526289 TI - mRNA stabilizing signals encoded in the genome of the bacteriophage phi x174. AB - In Escherichia coli cells infected with bacteriophage phi x174, mRNAs initiated by promoters PB and PD terminate after genes J, F, G, or H (TJ, TF, TG, or TH). These RNAs are relatively stable and contain mRNA-stabilizing signals at their 3' ends. These signals were cloned after gene D of phi x174 in an expression vector plasmid. The cloned signals stabilize mRNA of the upstream gene D and the stabilized mRNA is translationally functional. When these signals are inserted in reverse, no stabilizing effect on mRNA is observed indicating that the correct sequences at the 3' ends of transcripts determine their stability. When a stabilizing signal (+) and a mutated stabilizing signal (-) which has reduced stabilizing activity are tandemly inserted after gene D, two sets of 3' termini of the transcript are observed indicating that both signals also function as terminators. The amount of gpD synthesized from these constructs varies depending upon the relative positions of the (+) or (-) signals after gene D. The stabilizing function seems to act by preventing mRNA degradation from the 3' to 5' direction. Several common features of these stabilizers are described. PMID- 2526290 TI - UV irradiation inhibits initiation of DNA replication from oriC in Escherichia coli. AB - Irradiation of Escherichia coli with UV light causes a transient inhibition of DNA replication. This effect is generally thought to be accounted for by blockage of the elongation of DNA replication by UV-induced lesions in the DNA (a cis effect). However, by introducing an unirradiated E. coli origin (oriC)-dependent replicon into UV-irradiated cells, we have been able to show that the environment of a UV-irradiated cell inhibits initiation of replication from oriC on a dimer free replicon. We therefore conclude that UV-irradiation of E. coli leads to a trans-acting inhibition of initiation of replication. The inhibition is transient and does not appear to be an SOS function. PMID- 2526291 TI - Chromosomal location, cloning and nucleotide sequence of the Bacillus subtilis cdd gene encoding cytidine/deoxycytidine deaminase. AB - The Bacillus subtilis cdd gene encoding cytidine/2'-deoxycytidine deaminase has been located by transduction at approximately 225 degrees on the chromosome, and the gene order trpC-lys-cdd-aroD was established. The gene was isolated from a library of B. subtilis DNA cloned in lambda D69 by complementation of an Escherichia coli cdd mutation. Minicell experiments revealed a molecular mass of 14,000 dalton for the cytidine deaminase subunit encoded by the cloned DNA fragment. The molecular weight of the native enzyme was determined to be 58,000, suggesting that it consists of four identical subunits. The nucleotide sequence of 1170 bp, including the cdd gene, was determined. An open reading frame encoding a polypeptide with a calculated molecular mass of 14,800 dalton was deduced to be the coding region for cdd. The deduced amino acid composition of the 136-amino acid-long subunit shows that it contains six cysteine residues. A computer search in the GenBank DNA sequence library revealed that the 476 bp HindIII fragment containing the putative promoter region and the first ten codons of cdd is identical to the P43 promoter-containing fragment previously isolated by Wang and Doi (1984). They showed that the fragment contained overlapping promoters transcribed by B. subtilis sigma 43 and sigma 37 RNA polymerase holoenzymes during growth and stationary phase. PMID- 2526292 TI - Identification of the ligand-binding subunit of the human 5-hydroxytryptamine1A receptor with N-(p-azido-m-[125I] iodophenethyl)spiperone, a high affinity radioiodinated photoaffinity probe. AB - The ligand-binding subunit of the human 5-hydroxytryptamine1A (5-HT1A) receptor transiently expressed in COS-7 cells and of the native human 5-HT1A receptor derived from hippocampus and frontal cortex were identified by photoaffinity labeling with N-(p-azido-m-[125I]iodophenethyl)spiperone [( 125I]N3-NAPS), previously characterized as a high affinity radioiodinated D2-dopamine receptor probe. The identity of the ligand-binding subunit was confirmed by immunoprecipitation with an antipeptide rabbit antiserum, JWR21, raised against a synthetic peptide derived from the predicted amino acid sequence of the putative third intracellular loop of the human 5-HT1A receptor. In transiently transfected COS-7 cells expressing 14 +/- 3 pmol/mg of protein human 5-HT1A receptors, a single broad 75-kDa band was photoaffinity labeled by [125I]N3-NAPS. This band displayed the expected pharmacology of the 5-HT1A receptor, as evidenced by the ability of a series of competing ligands to block [125I]N3-NAPS photoincorporation. Moreover, antiserum JWR21 specifically and quantitatively immunoprecipitated the 75-kDa photoaffinity-labeled band from a soluble extract of the transfected COS-7 cell membranes, further confirming its identity. Finally, utilizing a combination of photoaffinity labeling and immunoprecipitation, the native ligand-binding subunit of 62-64 kDa was identified in human hippocampus and frontal cortex. The availability of the high specific activity, high affinity, photoaffinity ligand [125I]N3-NAPS and of a potent immunoprecipitating antiserum (JWR21) should greatly facilitate the biochemical characterization of the human 5-HT1A receptor. PMID- 2526295 TI - [Characterization of striated muscle fiber types by Ca2+-ATPase and myoglobin immunohistochemistry of the sarcoplasmic reticulum]. AB - By the immunohistochemical demonstration of SR calcium ATPase and myoglobin a fibre classification method was developed. Fast fibres showed intense, while slow fibres weak SR calcium ATPase reactivity. Immunohistochemical reaction of myoglobin characterized the oxidative metabolic state of fibres similar to the succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) reaction. By means of SR calcium ATPase and myoglobin immunohistochemistry fibres were classified as slow oxidative (SO), fast oxidative glycolytic (FOG) and fast glycolytic (Fg) groups. The SR calcium ATPase activity of the different fibres varied in the FG greater than FOG greater than SO order, while myoglobin immunoreactivity in the FOG greater than SO greater than FG order. Both proteins studied preserved their antigenicities in Bouin's fixative or in formol-acetate and paraffin embedding. The light microscopic immunogold-silver method was found suitable also for electron microscopy. The silver intensification of small particle-size (5 nm) gold conjugate results in a reaction with the joint advantages of high sensitivity and optimal visibility. The described immunohistochemical method proved to be suitable for the retrospective differentiation of human biopsy materials. PMID- 2526294 TI - Involvement of tyrosyl-tRNA synthetase in splicing of group I introns in Neurospora crassa mitochondria: biochemical and immunochemical analyses of splicing activity. AB - We reported previously that mitochondrial tyrosyl-tRNA synthetase, which is encoded by the nuclear gene cyt-18 in Neurospora crassa, functions in splicing several group I introns in N. crassa mitochondria (R. A. Akins and A. M. Lambowitz, Cell 50:331-345, 1987). Two mutants in the cyt-18 gene (cyt-18-1 and cyt-18-2) are defective in both mitochondrial protein synthesis and splicing, and an activity that splices the mitochondrial large rRNA intron copurifies with a component of mitochondrial tyrosyl-tRNA synthetase. Here, we used antibodies against different trpE-cyt-18 fusion proteins to identify the cyt-18 gene product as a basic protein having an apparent molecular mass of 67 kilodaltons (kDa). Both the cyt-18-1 and cyt-18-2 mutants contain relatively high amounts of inactive cyt-18 protein detected immunochemically. Biochemical experiments show that the 67-kDa cyt-18 protein copurifies with splicing and synthetase activity through a number of different column chromatographic procedures. Some fractions having splicing activity contain only one or two prominent polypeptide bands, and the cyt-18 protein is among the few, if not only, major bands in common between the different fractions that have splicing activity. Phosphocellulose columns resolve three different forms or complexes of the cyt-18 protein that have splicing or synthetase activity or both. Gel filtration experiments show that splicing activity has a relatively small molecular mass (peak at 150 kDa with activity trailing to lower molecular masses) and could correspond simply to dimers or monomers, or both, of the cyt-18 protein. Finally, antibodies against different segments of the cyt-18 protein inhibit splicing of the large rRNA intron in vitro. Our results indicate that both splicing and tyrosyl-tRNA synthetase activity are associated with the same 67-kDa protein encoded by the cyt-18 gene. This protein is a key constituent of splicing activity; it functions directly in splicing, and few, if any, additional components are required for splicing the large rRNA intron. PMID- 2526293 TI - Expression of avian Ca2+-ATPase in cultured mouse myogenic cells. AB - cDNA encoding Ca2+-ATPase was cloned from a chicken skeletal muscle library. The cDNA (termed FCa) comprised 3,239 base pairs, including an open reading frame encoding 994 amino acids which showed the highest degree of homology with the adult rabbit fast-twitch Ca2+-ATPase isoform (C. J. Brandl, S. de Leon, D. R. Martin, and D. H. MacLennan, J. Biol. Chem. 262:3768-3774, 1987). Radiolabeled FCa hybridized to a 3.2-kilobase transcript in chicken skeletal muscle RNA but not to cardiac muscle RNA, which confirmed its identity as encoding the fast Ca2+ ATPase isoenzyme. FCa was transfected into the mouse myogenic line C2C12, from which a protein of 100 kilodaltons was immunopurified by using a monoclonal antibody specific for the avian fast Ca2+-ATPase. Immunofluorescence microscopy of a line (designated C2FCa2) stably expressing the avian Ca2+-ATPase localized the protein to the nuclear envelope and a population of cytoplasmic vesicles. A similar pattern was observed when C2FCa2 cells were stained with DiOC6(3), a cyanine dye that labels endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria (M. Terasaki, J. Song, J. R. Wong, M. J. Weiss, and L. B. Chen, Cell 38:101-108, 1984). We conclude that the avian Ca2+-ATPase fast isoform is expressed and correctly targeted to the endoplasmic reticulum in mouse C2C12 cells. PMID- 2526296 TI - Effect of the uvs-2 allele of Neurospora crassa on the mutagenic potency of two N hydroxylaminopurines and 2-aminopurine in the ad-3 forward-mutation test. AB - The mutagenic potencies of 3 purine analogs were determined in the ad-3 forward mutation test in growing cultures of heterokaryon 59 (H-59), a nucleotide excision repair-deficient (uvs-2/uvs-2) 2-component heterokaryon of Neurospora crassa. Two N-hydroxylaminopurines, 2-amino-6-N-hydroxylaminopurine (AHA) and 6-N hydroxylaminopurine (HAP), were potent and strong mutagens, respectively, whereas 2-aminopurine (AP) was a moderate mutagen. Dose-response curves showed that AHA and HAP were about equally mutagenic at low doses but that AHA was more mutagenic than HAP at high doses. Comparison of these results in H-59 with our earlier results in heterokaryon 12 (H-12) of N. crassa, which is identical to H-59 except for being DNA-repair-proficient (uvs-2+/uvs-2+), shows that the defect in nucleotide excision repair due to uvs-2 has little or no effect on the mutagenic potencies of these 3 purine analogs. Therefore, the nucleotide excision-repair pathway in N. crassa that is deficient in H-59 does not appear to have a major role in the repair of pre-mutational lesions induced by these 3 purine analogs. On the other hand, based on the controls of these experiments, the frequency of spontaneous ad-3 mutants was 4 greater in H-59 than in H-12. This result suggests that the nucleotide excision-repair pathway in N. crassa that is inactivated by the uvs-2 mutation has a major role in the repair of lesions that would lead to spontaneous mutation at the ad-3+ region if they were not repaired. PMID- 2526297 TI - Normal inhibition of DNA synthesis following gamma-irradiation of radiosensitive cell lines from patients with Down's syndrome and Alzheimer's disease. AB - Inhibition of DNA synthesis was studied in gamma-irradiated lymphoblastoid cells from patients with Alzheimer's disease and Down's syndrome. A normal biphasic pattern of inhibition was observed over a dose range of 0-4 krad of gamma-rays in all of the cell lines. 3 out of 4 Down's and all the Alzheimer's cell lines were shown to be hypersensitive to ionizing radiation based on induced chromosomal aberrations. Increased G2 phase delay, comparable to that occurring in ataxia telangiectasia cells, was observed for some of the cell lines, after exposure to gamma-rays. Contrary to other data in the literature these results demonstrate that radioresistant DNA synthesis is not an intrinsic feature of all disorders characterized by radiosensitivity. PMID- 2526298 TI - Chernobyl fallout. Byelorussia collects dose. PMID- 2526299 TI - A role for calpactin in calcium-dependent exocytosis in adrenal chromaffin cells. AB - Stimulation of bovine adrenal chromaffin cells results in a rise in the concentration of cytosolic calcium which triggers the release of catecholamines by exocytosis. Several cytosolic proteins that bind to secretory granule membranes in a calcium-dependent manner have been implicated in exocytosis and some belong to a family of calcium-binding proteins, the annexins. One of these, calpactin, is a tetramer consisting of two heavy and two light chains (relative molecular masses 36,000 and 10,000 respectively) and can aggregate and fuse membranes in vitro in the presence of arachidonic acid. Calpactin is found at the cell periphery and is phosphorylated when chromaffin cells are stimulated. We show here that both calpactin and calpactin heavy chain (p36) reconstitute secretion in permeabilized chromaffin cells in which secretion has been reduced as a result of leakage of cellular components. This effect is inhibited by an affinity-purified antibody against p36. Secretion from permeabilized cells is inhibited by a synthetic annexin-consensus peptide, but not by a nonspecific hydrophobic peptide; this inhibition is reversed by p36. Our results indicate that either calpactin or p36 is essential for exocytosis. PMID- 2526300 TI - An insulin receptor in microorganisms: fact or fiction? PMID- 2526301 TI - Effects of sodium, lithium, and magnesium on in vitro binding of [3H]SCH23390 in rat neostriatum and cerebral cortex. AB - The effects of sodium, lithium, and magnesium on the in vitro binding properties of the D1 antagonist [3H]SCH23390 were examined with membrane preparations from rat neostriatum (CPU; caudate-putamen) and cerebral cortex (CTX). The saturation binding isotherms for both tissues performed in the presence of 120 mM of either Na+ or Li+ revealed an increase in the affinity, as compared to that observed when the incubation buffer was composed of Tris-Cl 50 mM with MgCl2 1 mM alone. For the CPU there were no changes in the maximum binding capacity (Bmax) in the different buffers used. In the case of the CTX, there was a loss of [3H]SCH23390 binding sites when either Na+ or Li+ 120 mM were added to the incubations, suggesting a lack of selectivity of this ligand in the absence of group IA cations. The agonist state of the [3H]SCH23390 binding site was studied in competition experiments with dopamine. The highest agonist affinity was obtained in 50 mM Tris-Cl buffer with 1 mM MgCl2 while the addition of 120 mM of either Na+ or Li+ caused a 3- to 5-fold decrease in the potency of dopamine to compete with specific [3H]SCH23390 binding in both CPU and CTX. The presence of magnesium was essential for the competition experiments; i.e.: a concentration of 1 mM MgCl2 was optimum to obtain dopamine antagonism of ligand binding, while increasing Mg2+ to 2 or 5 mM did not appear to further improve the inhibitions. The results support both agonist and antagonist affinity shifts for the dopamine D1 receptor labeled with [3H]SCH23390.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526302 TI - Differential analgesic actions of serotonin 5-HT3 receptor antagonists in the mouse. AB - The present study examined the analgesic effects of the serotonin 5-HT3 receptor antagonists ICS-205-930, MDL-7222 and GR-38032F in mice using acute thermal, mechanical and chemical pain tests. Subcutaneous administration (1-10 mg/kg) of these agents did not produce analgesia in either the thermal or mechanical pain tests. However, ICS-205-930, MDL-72222 and GR-38032F all produced dose-dependent analgesia in the chemical pain test, that was not altered by systemic naloxone administration (1 mg/kg, s.c.). Intracerebroventricular administration of these drugs (0.1-10 micrograms) was ineffective in producing analgesia in acute thermal, mechanical and chemical pain tests. These results suggest that peripheral 5-HT3 receptors play a role in chemical, but not thermal or mechanical nociceptive mechanisms. PMID- 2526303 TI - Monoaminergic regulation of the levels of beta-endorphin-like immunoreactivity (beta-ENDi) in rat hypothalamic nuclei. AB - To examine the role of monoamines in regulating beta-endorphin levels in discrete brain nuclei, the levels of beta-endorphin-like immunoreactivity (beta-ENDi) were determined in the hypothalamic nuclei of rats 2 h after they were treated with monoaminergic drugs. Sulpiride decreased the levels of beta-ENDi in the nucleus paraventricularis, nucleus arcuatus and median eminence. Domperidone decreased the levels of beta-ENDi in the nucleus aracuatus and median eminence. L-DOPA increased the levels of beta-ENDi in the nucleus anterior hypothalami and median eminence. Phenylephrine or prazosine did not alter the levels of beta-ENDi. Yohimine decreased the levels of beta-ENDI in the nucleus anterior hypothalami. Isoproterenol increased the levels of beta-ENDi in the nucleus arcuatus, and propranolol reversed this effect. These results suggest that dopamine and noradrenaline (via beta-adrenoceptors) may regulate beta-endorphinergic neurons in the rat hypothalamus. PMID- 2526305 TI - Evidence for a dopaminergic innervation of cat primary visual cortex. AB - Experiments have been conducted to determine whether dopamine fulfills the criteria to be considered as a neurotransmitter in cat primary visual cortex. N (2-chloroethyl)-N-ethyl-2-bromobenzylamine, a neurotoxin with high selectivity for noradrenergic terminals, was administered into kitten cerebral ventricles. Two weeks later, the concentration of norepinephrine in visual cortex was reduced to 15% of control while dopamine and serotonin were not depleted. Receptor binding assays with [3H]SCH 23390 showed that membranes prepared from cat primary visual cortex contain a binding site that has the properties of a D1 receptor. This site was localized by autoradiography to two bands, one in layer VI and the second in upper layers of visual cortex. A dopamine-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity was demonstrated that was inhibited by SCH 23390 but not by alprenolol. Norepinephrine was shown to stimulate adenylate cyclase activity through both a beta-noradrenergic receptor and a D1 receptor. Binding assays with [3H]spiperone indicated that D2 dopamine receptors are absent from cat visual cortex or present in very low amounts. Taken together these results strongly suggest the existence of a dopamine innervation of cat primary visual cortex. The neurotoxin experiments show that some of the dopamine in cat visual cortex is not in noradrenergic terminals while the receptor assays demonstrate the presence of D1 receptors functionally linked to the synthesis of cyclic 3',5'-adenosine monophosphate. The demonstration of a dopaminergic innervation in cat primary visual cortex is also relevant to the interpretation of data on the involvement of catecholamines in developmental plastic phenomena. PMID- 2526304 TI - Brain atrophy in Huntington's disease. A CT-scan study. AB - CT-scan measurements of cortical and subcortical atrophy were carried out in 34 patients with Huntington's disease (HD). While a significant correlation was observed between parameters of subcortical atrophy (bicaudate ratio, bifrontal ratio and third ventricular ratio) and duration of the disease, there was no significant correlation between these parameters and age. On the other hand, measurements of cortical atrophy (frontal fissure ratio and cortical sulci ratio) correlated significantly with age but not with duration of the disease. When a group of 24 HD patients were compared on CT-scan measurements with a group of 24 age-matched normal controls, significant differences were obtained for all the variables examined, but the bicaudate ratio showed the highest sensitivity and specificity. Even mildly affected patients, with duration of motor symptoms less than 3 years had higher bicaudate ratios than age-matched controls. PMID- 2526306 TI - [The median bipediculate dermal flap in the treatment of laparocele. A technical note]. AB - The importance of correctly anchoring the bipediculate dermal border to the musculofascial plane in order to restore the function of the muscles of the abdominal wall is underlined. The technique adopted to avoid the appearance of "dog's ear" is also described. PMID- 2526307 TI - [Androgenic evaluation of women with late-onset or persistent acne]. AB - The authors have studied the androgenic patterns in 29 women with late-onset persistent acne vulgaris. Clinical evaluation of acne, menstrual history and serum determinations of SHBG, total-T, free-T, DHEAS, delta 4A have been carried out. A mild and heterogeneous hyperandrogenism was found in 70% of women, thus, a greater steroid bioavailability for peripheral conversion and/or a direct stimulation of the pilosebaceous unit can be postulated. Androgenic evaluation in women with late-onset or persistent acne vulgaris is useful, mainly for hormonal management. PMID- 2526308 TI - On the mechanism of neuroleptic induced increase in striatal dopamine release: brain dialysis provides direct evidence for mediation by autoreceptors localized on nerve terminals. AB - The influence of sulpiride on the in vivo release of dopamine and DOPAC from the rat striatum was investigated by microdialysis. Racemic sulpiride was administered systemically (i.p.) to control rats and to rats in which a striatum was pretreated by kainic acid. In addition various concentrations (10(-8) to 10( 5) M) of the two enantiomers of sulpiride were infused into the striatum and the effects on the release of dopamine were recorded. Infusion as well as systemic administration of sulpiride caused a maximal increase in the release of dopamine of about 180-190% of basal values. A similar increase was seen in kainic acid pretreated rats. The rises in dopamine seen after systemic administration or infusion of sulpiride were not additive, suggesting that similar mechanisms were involved. DOPAC dialysate levels also increased during infusion of the neuroleptic but the rise was significantly less when sulpiride was administered i.p. to kainic acid pretreated rats. It is concluded that the rise in dopamine release seen after neuroleptics is mediated by autoreceptors localized on nerve terminals. This implies that the well-known increase in electrical activity of dopaminergic neurons during neuroleptic treatment, is not responsible for the increased release of the transmitter. PMID- 2526309 TI - Nongenomic interactions of retinoic acid and thyroid hormone at the plasma membrane. AB - Both thyroxine (T4) and 3,3'5-L-tri-iodothyronine (T3) can activate the calcium magnesium-dependent adenosine triphosphatase (ATP-ase) in plasma membranes of enucleate erythrocytes. This activation of Ca2+-ATPase is blocked by retinoic acid and perhaps by competing T4-binding sites on the membranes. PMID- 2526311 TI - Management of unruptured ectopic gestation by linear salpingostomy: a prospective, randomized clinical trial of laparoscopy versus laparotomy. PMID- 2526310 TI - A comparative study of postoperative adhesions following laser surgery by laparoscopy versus laparotomy in the rabbit model. AB - In this study, we tested the null hypothesis that intraperitoneal adhesion formation and reduction after laser surgery are the same whether the surgery is performed by laparoscopy or laparotomy. Twenty rabbits were randomly assigned to either laparoscopy or laparotomy and subjected to standardized laser incisions over one uterine horn and over the peritoneal surface of either lower quadrant. Three weeks later, five animals from each group underwent laparoscopy and the other five received laparotomy to score the extent of postoperative adhesions formed and to carry out laser adhesiolysis. The same power density was delivered to tissues in both procedures. Three weeks after the second operative intervention, the animals were killed and the intraperitoneal adhesions blindly scored (scale of 0-3). After the initial procedure, adhesions were absent in the laparoscopy group, but in the laparotomy group, adhesions were frequently present not only at the operative sites of the peritoneal surfaces and uterine horn, but also on the bowel, bladder, and opposite uterine horn where no apparent injury had been inflicted (P less than .005). Three weeks after adhesiolysis, a significant reduction was observed in the mean adhesion scores in the laparoscopy group, but not in the laparotomy group (P = .001). These results lead to the rejection of the null hypothesis and confirm the clinical observation that besides reducing operative trauma, discomfort, and cost, laparoscopic laser surgery is very effective in reducing intraperitoneal adhesions and causes significantly less postoperative adhesion formation than does laparotomy. PMID- 2526312 TI - GnRH analogues in the treatment of endometriosis. AB - Modifications of the native gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) decapeptide have led to longer-acting compounds with increased binding ability. Pharmacologic doses of agonists result in suppression of ovarian estradiol production to levels similar to oophorectomized patients. The resultant hypoestrogenism is associated with regression in endometrial implant size. Both subjective and objective clinical improvement have been reported. Recent studies document that a reversible state of hypogonadism is effective treatment for endometriosis. PMID- 2526314 TI - Laparoscopic treatment of endometriosis. AB - Advances in operative laparoscopy have been useful in the treatment of pelvic endometriosis. While these advances have not yet led to improved pregnancy rates, they have decreased the cost and morbidity of surgery for endometriosis. PMID- 2526313 TI - The surgical management of endometriosis. AB - Surgical treatment is an important option in treatment of all stages of endometriosis. Surgical options of operative laparoscopy, lasers, laparotomy technique, and perioperative medical treatment are discussed in the contexts of both published literature and the authors' clinical experience. PMID- 2526315 TI - Ultrastructural study of atrial specific granules in rat atrium after incubation with calcium ionophore (A23187). AB - The release mechanism of the rat atrial granules containing atrial natriuretic polypeptide (ANP) was examined. In addition, the ultrastructure of right atrial myocardiocytes incubated in a medium containing an excess calcium and calcium ionophores (A 23187) was investigated by electron microscopy. After 3-15 minute incubation in the medium, many ANP-containing atrial specific granules were detected in the vicinity of the subsarcolemmal region, and invagination of the plasma membranes occurred as well as a large number of vacuoles were observed. After incubation with an excess calcium and calcium ionophores for 40 minutes, the atrial specific granules had completely disappeared and numerous vacuoles appeared in the sarcoplasm of the atrial myocardiocytes. Thus, release of ANP and their reabsorption by membranes were accelerated by the presence of calcium and calcium ionophores. PMID- 2526317 TI - Supplemental Security Income benefits for children. PMID- 2526316 TI - [A new genus of microsporidans Cristulospora gen. n. (Amblyospiridae) with 3 new species from blood-sucking mosquitoes in Uzbekistan]. AB - Three new species of microsporidans of the new genus Cristulospora are described from mosquitoes of the genera Culex and Aedes (floodlands of the Syr Darya, Syrdarya Province, Bukharskii oasis). In mosquitoes microsporidans have sporogony of two types that is characteristic of the family Amblyosporidae. The development in larvae ends in the formation of 8 uninucleate spores in pansporoblasts. In females single binucleate spores are formed. The new genus differs from other amblyosporids in the presence of appendages in shape of magnificent plumes on both poles of octospores, which are distinct without staining. C. sherbani sp. n. from Culex modestus forms spores measuring 5.0-8.1 X 4.3-5.6 microns in larvae. During the fixation the poles become flattened, plumes are equal, most of them having wide bases. In genital ducts of females oval cylindrical thin-walled spores of 6.3-8.7 X 2.5-3.7 microns are formed. C. cadyrovi sp. n. from Culex pipiens forms spores of 5.6-6.8 X 3.7-5.0 microns in larvae. After the fixation the poles do not become flattened, plumes are equal, with narrow base. The second type of spores has not been discovered. C. aedis sp. n. from Aedes caspius has spores of 6.2-7.5 X 4.3-5.6 microns in larvae. Plumes with narrow base, the anterior and posterior ones are different in shape. In genital ducts of females thin-walled spores of 8.7-11.8 X 3.7-5.0 microns are formed. PMID- 2526319 TI - Labelling oligonucleotides to high specific activity (I). AB - The normal procedure for labelling oligonucleotides radioactively is the use of polynucleotide kinase and gamma 32P-ATP. However, this has the disadvantage of only introducing one labelled base per molecule of the oligonucleotide. In this paper we describe an approach based on primer/template combinations using conventional fill-in conditions followed by the release of the labelled sequence by digestion with uracil-DNA glycosylase. PMID- 2526318 TI - In vivo photocrosslinking reveals that transcription factor binding to the mammalian ATF recognition sequence is required for E1A-induced transactivation in injected Xenopus laevis oocytes. AB - The adenovirus E1A 13S mRNA product transactivates genes injected into Xenopus laevis oocytes that are normally E1A-inducible in mammalian cells. However, E1A stimulated transcription, but not basal (uninduced) transcription, was inhibited if oocytes were incubated in the presence of protein synthesis inhibitors. This suggests that a cellular protein(s) is required for E1A-induced transactivation, but that it is dispensable for basal transcription. In order to identify such a protein from Xenopus oocytes that interacts with the adenovirus E3 promoter, gel shift assays, a new in vivo photocrosslinking assay, and immunoselection of biotinylated oligonucleotides were employed. A protein of molecular size 75 kd, which bound to the mammalian ATF recognition sequence in vivo, was found to be essential for E1A-induced transactivation. Although cycloheximide treatment of oocytes inhibited factor binding. E1A exerted no effect on factor binding. These data suggest that E1A modulates the activity of an oocyte transcription factor, either directly or indirectly, but not its ability to bind DNA. PMID- 2526320 TI - Coronavirus genome: prediction of putative functional domains in the non structural polyprotein by comparative amino acid sequence analysis. AB - Amino acid sequences of 2 giant non-structural polyproteins (F1 and F2) of infectious bronchitis virus (IBV), a member of Coronaviridae, were compared, by computer-assisted methods, to sequences of a number of other positive strand RNA viral and cellular proteins. By this approach, juxtaposed putative RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, nucleic acid binding ("finger"-like) and RNA helicase domains were identified in F2. Together, these domains might constitute the core of the protein complex involved in the primer-dependent transcription, replication and recombination of coronaviruses. In F1, two cysteine protease-like domains and a growth factor-like one were revealed. One of the putative proteases of IBV is similar to 3C proteases of picornaviruses and related enzymes of como- nepo- and potyviruses. Search of IBV F1 and F2 sequences for sites similar to those cleaved by the latter proteases and intercomparison of the surrounding sequence stretches revealed 13 dipeptides Q/S(G) which are probably cleaved by the coronavirus 3C like protease. Based on these observations, a partial tentative scheme for the functional organization and expression strategy of the non-structural polyproteins of IBV was proposed. It implies that, despite the general similarity to other positive strand RNA viruses, and particularly to potyviruses, coronaviruses possess a number of unique structural and functional features. PMID- 2526321 TI - First genomic sequence of the human T-cell receptor delta 2 gene (TRDV2). PMID- 2526323 TI - Cutaneous drug eruption caused by 8-methoxypsoralen. PMID- 2526322 TI - Beta-endorphin levels during pregnancy and labor: a role in pain modulation? AB - Discovery of the endogenous opiate system of the brain has revolutionized the study of pain and pain management. In this study a convenience sample of 10 pregnant women, 16 nonpregnant women, and 18 men were studied to determine if changes in plasma beta-endorphin-like immunoreactivity affected pain perception during labor. Pregnant women had plasma levels of beta-endorphin significantly higher than nonpregnant women at the midpoint of their menstrual cycle, t = 3.74, df = 31, p = .007. Self-reported pain perception scores were not correlated with plasma beta-endorphin levels. However, as labor progressed, the women reported increased discomfort between contractions and during contractions while beta endorphin levels increased only slightly. Close examination of the pain pattern indicates that pain perceived by the women between contractions increased at a greater rate than during contractions. This pattern suggests that opiate-active beta-endorphin may increase the ability of women to tolerate acute pain. PMID- 2526324 TI - Role of endotoxin on hypoglycaemia in acute hepatic failure. Relationship between hypoglycaemia and hepatic injury following endotoxaemia in diabetic and nondiabetic rats. AB - To clarify the relation of endotoxaemia to hypoglycaemia and consequent death in acute hepatic failure, the interrelationship between the degree of hepatic injury, blood glucose level and mortality following endotoxaemia were examined in streptozotocin-induced diabetic and nondiabetic rats. Endotoxin hepatotoxicity was not enhanced in diabetic state. Blood glucose level was markedly reduced after endotoxin administration in the nondiabetic rats, and the reduction of blood glucose level closely correlated with the degree of hepatic injury (serum transaminase activities), namely, the more severe the hepatic injury, the lower the blood glucose level. Hypoglycaemia due to endotoxaemia occurred also in the diabetic rats when the hepatic injury was severe, but the reduction of blood glucose level was slight when it was mild. The mortality for endotoxaemia in diabetic rats was significantly lower than that in the nondiabetic rats. These experimental data suggest that endotoxaemia may play a role in the development of hypoglycaemia in acute hepatic failure, and that the diabetic state may lower the mortality for endotoxaemia. PMID- 2526325 TI - Inhibition of the pituitary-gonadal axis by a single intramuscular administration of D-Trp-6-LH-RH (decapeptyl) in a sustained-release formulation in patients with prostatic carcinoma. AB - For the past 6 years we used daily injection of luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LH-RH) agonists to treat patients with advanced prostate carcinoma. In this study we determined the hormonal response of the pituitary-testicular axis over a 2-month period and evaluated the safety and tolerance of the single intramuscular administration of sustained-release formulations of D-Trp-6-LH-RH microcapsules designed to release 50, 100, or 200 micrograms/day for over 1 month. Serum levels of LH, testosterone, and D-Trp-6-LH-RH were measured by RIA for up to 60 days in 10 patients with advanced prostatic carcinoma who had not received any previous drug therapy. After the administration of the microcapsules there was a biphasic increase in D-Trp-6-LH-RH serum levels. The maximal peak was obtained between 1 and 3 hr, and a second peak occurred between weeks 4 and 6. LH levels increased initially, with a maximal peak at 60 min, and elevated serum LH values persisted for more than 24 hr. LH levels began to fall on the second day, reaching subnormal values after 1 week. Serum testosterone rose during the first week and fell subsequently to less than 100 ng/dl. A rebound in LH and testosterone was seen about the 50th day after the microcapsule administration. Following the first week of therapy, we observed in all patients a significant decrease in bone pain, improvement in urinary flow obstruction, and a reversal of the signs of prostatism. No side effects were observed, and acceptance of the microcapsules was very good. Our results show that a single dose of D-Trp-6-LH-RH microcapsules suppresses of the pituitary-testicular axis for at least 50 days. D Trp-6-LH-RH microcapsules facilitate the treatment and should lead to an improvement in the therapeutic response. PMID- 2526326 TI - Adenosine triphosphatase in the uterus and duodenum of chicken hens during eggshell formation. AB - Plasma calcium concentration and uterine and duodenal adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) activities were determined during shell formation for high (H) and low (L) shell strength lines of hens selected from the last of four consecutive generations. The H and L lines were divided into three groups according to shell formation at 0, 15, and 22 h following oviposition. Plasma total calcium was determined from blood samples collected from the common carotid artery. Activity of ATPase was determined in uterine and duodenal mucosa. Shell strength, shell weight, percentage of shell per egg and shell thickness of the H line hens significantly exceeded those of the L line. During shell formation, no significant fluctuation in plasma calcium levels was observed within a line, but overall mean plasma calcium concentrations were higher in the H line than L line. Uterine ATPase activity increased with time after oviposition in both lines, with that of the H line being greater. Duodenal ATPase activity of H line hens remained fairly constant throughout the period, but this value showed fluctuations in the L line hens. It thus appears that laying hens with high and low shell strength may vary in their ability to use calcium for shell formation. PMID- 2526327 TI - Treadmill exercise training increases the oxidative capacity of chicken iliotibialis muscle. AB - The number of fibers staining for the oxidative enzyme succinic dehydrogenase (SDH) was measured in the iliotibialis lateralis caudalis muscle of the domestic fowl before treadmill training and after 6 wk and 15 wk of training, respectively. This leg muscle contains exclusively fast-twitch or type II fibers, and before exercise training approximately 40% of these stained intensely for SDH. After 6 and 15 wk training this proportion rose to approximately 50 and 60%, respectively. Most of these highly oxidative fibers also stained weakly for the glycolytic enzyme alpha-glycerophosphate dehydrogenase (alpha-GPDH) and belonged to the fast-twitch oxidative category. Most of the poorly oxidative fibers stained strongly for alpha-GPDH and therefore belonged to the fast-twitch glycolytic category. It is concluded that exercise training in birds can bring about adaptive changes in the oxidative capacity of skeletal muscle similar to those that have been observed in man and other mammals. PMID- 2526329 TI - Absorption of 5'-deoxy-5-fluorouridine from colon. AB - Rectally administered 5'-deoxy-5-fluorouridine (dFUR) is active against transplanted dimethylhydrazine-induced colon tumor in rats. This study investigated the disposition of dFUR in normal non-tumor-bearing rats after rectal administration (350 or 700 mg/kg). An intravenous (iv) bolus injection of [5'-3H]dFUR (28.2 muCi, 0.43 micrograms) was given 5 min after the rectal dose (700 mg/kg) to determine the dFUR clearance (CL). Blood and fecal samples were analyzed by high-pressure liquid chromatography and liquid scintillation. After the iv tracer dose, the CL was 19 ml/min/kg and the terminal half-life was 50 min. After a 700-mg/kg rectal dose, the terminal half-life was 430 min, the bioavailability was 30%, and the fraction of the dose recovered in 24-hr feces was 34%. After a 350-mg/kg dose, absorption was apparently not completed at 12 hr, as indicated by a lack of decline in blood concentration. The bioavailability of the 350-mg/kg dose exceeded 16%. The absorption of dFUR (700 mg/kg) from the colon was analyzed by the Loo-Riegelman method: the absorption half-life was 550 min. The terminal half-life after the rectal dose was much slower than that after the iv tracer dose but similar to the absorption half-life. These data indicate that dFUR was absorbed from the colon, that the absorption process was the rate limiting step of its disposition after rectal administration, and that the slow absorption gave a sustained drug concentration in blood. PMID- 2526328 TI - Biologic activity of 5'-deoxy-5-fluorouridine by rectal administration. AB - 5'-Deoxy-5-fluorouridine (dFUR) is used orally to treat human malignancies. This study compared the antitumor activity and toxicity of rectally and orally administered dFUR. A 7-day treatment of dFUR (350 or 700 mg/kg/day) was infused rectally over 30 min or administered by oral gavage (500 mg/kg/day) to rats bearing transplanted dimethylhydrazine-induced colon tumors. The oral treatment was previously shown to produce a 82% cure of the tumor-bearing animals. The tumor weight after 7 day treatment was compared to that before treatment. The size of the tumor in the saline-treated control group (N = 6) increased by 55%. The maximum tumor size reductions by drug treatments were 40% for the 350-mg/kg rectal dose (N = 5), greater than 99% for the 700-mg/kg rectal dose (N = 10), and 100% for the 500-mg/kg oral dose (N = 4). The 350-mg/kg rectal dose did not produce any cures, while the 700-mg/kg rectal dose produced 80% cures and the 500 mg/kg oral dose 100% cures. The cured animals remained tumor-free during the observation period of 163 to 243 days. The tumor-bearing rats were euthanized between 46 and 132 days when they appeared moribund or when the tumor began to ulcerate. The 700-mg/kg rectal and 500-mg/kg oral treatments produced greater weight loss than saline suggesting a drug-induced intestinal toxicity. After rectal drug treatment, the animal weight returned to pretreatment level within 3 days, indicating a rapidly reversible intestinal toxicity. The oral group suffered a greater weight loss than the rectal group and took more than 10 days to recover.2+his suggests that the intestinal PMID- 2526331 TI - [Experience with the organization of research in phthisiopulmonology under present economic conditions]. AB - Transfer to new economic forms of management in the branch science requires, methodological lay-out with due regard for the medical science specificity. On the model of phthisiopulmonology, the Moscow Research Institute of Tuberculosis, the RSFSR Ministry of Public Health, is developing a new system for the work of scientific institutions (a problem research centre, PRC). The system is based on solution of a number of scientific and organizational tasks: development of the procedure for choosing goals and problems, estimation of the priority of the trends in research studies, development of efficient procedures for introduction of scientific achievements into practice, establishment of economic control levers for management of the science and introduction into practice of its achievements, etc. The primary experience indicated that the PRC was promising when a system approach to organization of its activity and adequate methods for planning and arrangement of the branch science were used. PMID- 2526330 TI - Biodistribution and scintigraphy of 11C-toremifene in rats bearing DMBA-induced mammary carcinoma. AB - A new antioestrogenic antitumour compound toremifene was labeled with 11C or 3H. The tissue distribution and tumour uptake of the compounds in DMBA induced breast tumour bearing rats was investigated. 11C-toremifene was localized by gamma camera scintigraphy and tissue counting. 3H-Toremifene was determined by liquid scintillation counting after oxidizing the tissue samples. Toremifene was distributed to several tissues due to the lipophilicity and was not taken up specifically by the tumours to any great extent. However, the radioactivity of the tumours increased as a function of time although it declined e.g. in the liver. The accumulation to the tumour was a slow process and cannot be followed up reliably by such short half-life radionuclides as 11C. The tumour uptake properties of toremifene resemble those of tamoxifen and several other oestrogen receptor binding compounds. These substances have limited use in diagnosing and imaging oestrogen receptor rich breast tumours in man. PMID- 2526332 TI - [Status of bacteriological services in tuberculosis institutions of the RSFSR and prospects of their improvement]. AB - Organization of the work of bacteriological laboratories in tuberculosis institutions of the RSFSR is discussed in regard to the aspects of their lawful status, functions and activity results. It was shown with extensive materials (from more than 30 administrative territories) that systemic bacteriological examination of the groups of high tuberculosis risk markedly lowered the number of the sources of tubercle bacilli isolation not registered in tuberculosis dispensaries. Patients with urogenital pathology were found to be frequent sources of tubercle bacilli isolation. It was recommended to decrease the number of assays for drug resistance of the isolates, to perform them only by clinical indications and to change the investigation procedure by testing mainly the resistance of tubercle bacilli. PMID- 2526333 TI - [Anniversary of the Moscow Research Institute of Tuberculosis, Ministry of Public Health of the RSFSR]. PMID- 2526334 TI - [Epidemiology of tuberculosis in the RSFSR at present]. AB - The epidemiological situation in regard to tuberculosis in the RSFSR is permanently improving. The incidence of tuberculosis in the Republic in 1971-1987 decreased by 40 per cent and in 1987 amounted to 42.4 per 100,000 residents. The pace of the decrease in the tuberculosis incidence and rate in the 1980s markedly slackened. This was connected with better organization of prophylactic examination of the population, much lower incidence of tuberculosis in children and increased migration which promoted leveling of the tuberculosis incidence and rate in various regions of the Republic. A change in the social structure of the patients in the direction of increasing the number of socially unadjusted elements also promoted the disease. Several basic groups of the risk factors defining the level of the tuberculosis incidence were indicated. PMID- 2526335 TI - Gene Q antiterminator proteins of Escherichia coli phages 82 and lambda suppress pausing by RNA polymerase at a rho-dependent terminator and at other sites. AB - The Q genes of phages lambda and 82 encode transcription antiterminators that are active in vitro in a purified transcription system. Transcription termination is thought to involve two distinct steps: pausing of the transcription complex at the terminator and release of enzyme and RNA; either or both steps might be inhibited by Q protein. We show that Q-modified RNA polymerase pauses much less efficiently than does unmodified enzyme at the natural pause sites of a rho dependent terminator as well as at other pause sites. This changed behavior can account for the termination properties of Q-modified RNA polymerase and reflects a fundamental alteration of the elongation properties of the enzyme. PMID- 2526336 TI - Effect of negative mechanical stress on the orientation of myosin cross-bridges in muscle fibers. AB - The effect of positive and negative stress on myosin cross-bridge orientation in glycerinated muscle fibers was investigated by using fluorescence polarization spectroscopy of the emission from the covalent label tetramethyl-rhodamine-5-(and -6)-iodoacetamide (IATR) specifically modifying sulfhydryl one (SH1) on the myosin heavy chain. Positive tension was applied by stretching the fiber in rigor. Negative tension was applied in two steps by using a protocol introduced by Goldman et al. [Goldman, Y. E., McCray, J. A. & Vallette, D. P. (1988) J. Physiol. (London) 398, 75P]: relaxing a fiber at resting length and stretching it until the relaxed tension is appreciable and then placing the fiber in rigor and releasing the tension onto the rigor cross-bridges. We found, as have others, that positive tension has no effect on the fluorescence polarization spectrum from the SH1-bound probe, indicating that the cross-bridge does not rotate under these conditions. Negative tension, however, causes a change in the fluorescence polarization spectrum that indicates a probe rotation. The changes in the polarization spectrum from negative stress are partially reversed by the subsequent application of positive stress. It appears that negative tension strains the cross-bridge, or the cross-bridge domain containing SH1, and causes it to rotate. PMID- 2526337 TI - Mouse Mos protooncogene product is present and functions during oogenesis. AB - We have identified the mouse Mos-encoded protein product, p39mos, in maturing mouse oocytes and have shown that it is indistinguishable from the product expressed in Mos-transformed NIH 3T3 cells. p39mos is detected in oocytes arrested in the first meiotic prophase, during germinal-vesicle breakdown, metaphase I, anaphase I, and in ovulated eggs. We show that microinjection of three different Mos antisense (but not sense) oligodeoxyribonucleotides into germinal vesicle-stage oocytes prevents first polar-body emission and therefore interrupted the normal progression of meiosis. These results show that in mouse oocytes, as in the amphibian Xenopus [Sagata, N., Oskarsson, M., Copeland, T., Brumbaugh, J. & Vande Woude, G.F. (1988) Nature (London) 335, 519-525], the product of Mos is necessary for normal meiotic maturation. PMID- 2526338 TI - Subtypes of intercalated cells in rat kidney collecting duct defined by antibodies against erythroid band 3 and renal vacuolar H+-ATPase. AB - The cellular distributions of the kidney form of the erythrocyte band 3 chloride/bicarbonate exchanger and the kidney vacuolar H+-transporting ATPase were examined in rat kidney collecting duct by immunocytochemical staining of adjacent semithin sections. Polyclonal anti-peptide antibodies directed against two regions of murine erythroid band 3 gave a pattern of basolateral labeling similar to that seen with antibodies directed against the entire protein. In the medullary collecting duct almost all intercalated cells expressed basolateral membrane band 3 and displayed apical membrane H+-ATPase. In the cortical collecting duct and the connecting segment, band 3 labeling was restricted to a subpopulation of intercalcated cells. In the cortical collecting duct 46% of intercalated cells had apical H+-ATPase and basolateral band 3. Cells that had either basolateral or diffuse cytoplasmic staining for H+-ATPase were all band 3 negative and accounted for 53% of the intercalated cells. In addition, occasional intercalated cells with apical H+-ATPase appeared to lack basolateral band 3. These results demonstrate the coexpression of H+-ATPase and band 3 in opposite plasma membrane domains of a subpopulation of intercalated cells that are probably the acid-excreting (type A) cells. All other intercalated cells lacked immunoreactive band 3 and probably include the bicarbonate-excreting (type B) cells. PMID- 2526339 TI - A general method for detecting rearrangements in a bacterial genome. AB - An effective method was developed to monitor genome rearrangement in bacteria. The whole procedure consists of five steps. (i) Genomic DNAs of reference cells and test cells are digested with the same restriction enzyme. (ii) The DNA restriction fragments from the test cells are radioactively labeled. (iii) The labeled DNA fragments of test cells are mixed with unlabeled DNA fragments from reference cells that are 100- to 1000-fold in excess and the mixture is electrophoresed in an agarose gel. (iv) After electrophoresis, DNA fragments are alkali-denatured; this is followed by renaturation in situ in the gel. The labeled rearranged DNA fragments from the test cells will renature much slower, as compared with the nonrearranged fragments, since in this location of the gel these rearranged fragments do not have a counterpart in the driver DNA, which is in excess. (v) The DNA gel is electrophoresed in a second dimension perpendicular to the first dimension after renaturation. The denatured rearranged DNAs are revealed after autoradiography, since single-stranded DNA fragments have higher electrophoretic mobility than double-stranded fragments of the same sizes. This process of detection has been demonstrated in this report by using Escherichia coli HB101 as the reference strain and E. coli HB101 carrying lambda phage DNA (1:1 genomic ratio) as the test strain. PMID- 2526340 TI - Treatment of chronic occlusive arterial disease with pentoxifylline: changes in clinical and haemodynamic parameters. AB - A prospective study was carried out in 15 patients with peripheral obstructive arterial disease (Fontaine Stage II), with obstructions in the thigh region, to assess the effect of treatment with pentoxifylline on clinical and haemodynamically measurable factors, particularly changes in the post-ischaemic increase in peripheral blood pressure. After a 7-day wash-out period, patients were hospitalized for 1 week and received a daily infusion of 300 mg pentoxifylline plus a 600 mg tablet orally in the evening. They were then treated as out-patients for 2 weeks, receiving 1200 mg pentoxifylline orally per day. Pain-free and maximum possible walking ranges, using a treadmill ergometer, were determined on Days 7, 14, 21 and 28 of the study. Measurements were made at the same intervals, using Doppler ultrasound, and the peripheral resting blood pressure index and post-ischaemic blood pressure index calculated. The results showed significant improvement in both pain-free and maximum walking range after intravenous and oral therapy and this was particularly noticeable in those patients who, before treatment, had a walking range of less than 150 metres: their pain-free range doubled in the first week. There was a slight increase in the resting Doppler blood pressure indices during treatment and a clear, significant increase in the post-ischaemic pressure index 90 and 120 sec after the induced ischaemia ended. PMID- 2526342 TI - Structure and function of vacuolar class of ATP-driven proton pumps. PMID- 2526341 TI - Effects of penbutolol on plasma atrial natriuretic peptide and antidiuretic hormone levels before and after exercise: a double-blind comparison against placebo. AB - A double-blind crossover trial was carried out in 7 healthy male volunteers to investigate the effects of penbutolol and a placebo on plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and antidiuretic hormone (ADH) levels before and after exercise. Each subject underwent several bicycle ergometric exercises lasting 6 min before and after the application of test medications. Ergometric exercises were performed before medication, and at 2, 5, 9 and 24 hours after medication. Blood samples for ANP and ADH levels were drawn before, after 15 min, after 2 hours (immediately after ergometry) and 5, 7, 9, and 24 hours after medication (immediately before ergometry). Urine was collected as follows: -2 to 0, 0 to 2, 2 to 4, 4 to 7, 7 to 14 and 14 to 24 hours after medication, and the volume as well as sodium excretion were documented. Penbutolol caused suppression of the exercise-induced increase in ANP. The 2 to 4 hour fractional sodium excretion was significantly decreased from 12.1 +/- 4.9 mmol/fraction after placebo treatment to 7.8 +/- 3.0 mmol/fraction after penbutolol application (p less than 0.03). There were no differences in the urinary outputs between penbutolol and placebo until 4 hours after medication, but penbutolol caused the total urinary output to increase from 1390 +/- 388 ml/24 hr during placebo treatment to 1725 +/- 549 ml/24 hr (p less than 0.02) due to the last collection fraction. Blood pressure and pulse rate both decreased during exercise after penbutolol. As opposed to the suppressing influence of penbutolol on ANP, ADH plasma levels were increased after exercise.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526343 TI - Hinokiflavone, a cytotoxic principle from Rhus succedanea and the cytotoxicity of the related biflavonoids. AB - Hinokiflavone (1) was isolated as the cytotoxic principle from the drupes of Rhus succedanea L. A comparison of the cytotoxicity of 1 and other related biflavonoids, including amentoflavone (2), robustaflavone (3), agathisflavone (4), rhusflavone (5), rhusflavanone (6) and its hexaacetate (7), succedaneaflavanone (8) and its hexaacetate (9), cupressuflavone (10), neorhusflavanone (11), volkensiflavone (12) and its hexamethyl ether (13), spicataside (14) and its nonaacetate (15), morelloflavone (16) and its heptaacetate (17) and heptamethyl ether (18), GB-1a (19) and its hexamethyl ether (20) and 7"-O-beta-glucoside (21), and GB-2a (22), indicates that an ether linkage between two units of apigenin as seen in 1 is structurally required for significant cytotoxicity. Compounds 13 and 20 also demonstrated significant cytotoxicity. PMID- 2526344 TI - Abdominal wall expansion in congenital defects. AB - A method for expanding the skin, fascia, muscle, and peritoneal layers of the abdominal wall is described, and clinical application is demonstrated in two children with cloacal exstrophy and congenital absence of the lower half of the abdominal wall. This technique provides an innervated composite reconstruction of defects in excess of 50 percent of the abdominal surface and is recommended in large secondary defects where peritonealization has been achieved and in congenital defects that do not lend themselves to standard methods of closure. Cadaver dissection confirms that tissue expanders may be placed with preservation of innervation and blood supply to the abdominal wall. PMID- 2526345 TI - Hemicholinium-3 impairs spatial learning and the deficit is reversed by cholinomimetics. AB - The effects of hemicholinium-3 (HC-3) on spatial discrimination learning were studied. Rats were equipped with indwelling cannulae in the right lateral ventricle and, following recovery, were trained on a two platform spatial discrimination task in a water maze. In this task a visible escape platform remains in a fixed position in the pool during a single training session, whilst the location of an identical "float" (which affords no escape) is randomly varied. For each session the location of the fixed escape platform was changed and the rats were retrained to criterion following pretreatment either with artificial cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or HC-3 (2.5, 5.0 micrograms/rat/ICV) 1 h before training. Each rat received every treatment according to a latin square design. The results showed that spatial learning was dose dependently impaired by HC-3, choice accuracy being reduced to chance levels by the higher dose. There was no evidence of motoric difficulty, as choice latencies were not significantly increased. Experiments were then conducted to test for reversal of the deficit using a range of psychotropic drugs. Rats were treated with CSF or HC-3 (5 micrograms/rat ICV) 60 min prior to testing and test drugs were injected 15 min before testing. Some doses of physostigmine (46-460 micrograms/kg/SC) and tetrahydroaminoacridine (THA) (2.2-10 mg/kg/SC) reversed the spatial learning deficit. The muscarinic agonists arecoline (0.046-1 mg/kg/SC), aceclidine (1-10 mg/kg/SC), oxotremorine (30-100 micrograms/kg/SC) and RS-86 (0.46, 1.0 microgram/kg/SC) were also effective. Pilocarpine (0.22-2.2 mg/kg/SC) showed marginal activity and isoarecoline (4.6-10 mg/kg/SC) was inactive. Nicotine (0.32, 1, 3.2 mg/kg/SC) and piracetam (10, 30, 100 mg/kg IP) were also inactive. The alpha 2 agonist, clonidine (46, 100 micrograms/kg SC) and the antagonist idazoxan (32, 100 micrograms/kg SC) were also inactive. Learning deficits were not reversed by haloperidol (20, 60 micrograms/kg), amphetamine (0.1, 0.46 mg/kg), the selective 5-HT1A agonist 8-OH-DPAT (30, 100 micrograms/kg) or by the benzodiazapine antagonist ZK-93426 (1, 3.2, 10 mg/kg). The results show that forebrain Ach depletion by HC-3 impairs spatial discrimination learning and these deficits are reversed by cholinesterase inhibitors and some muscarinic receptor agonists. Some degree of pharmacological selectivity is indicated by the failure of a range of other drugs to reverse the impairments. PMID- 2526346 TI - Vasopressin V1-receptor blockade lowers arterial blood pressure in young conscious Long-Evans rats. AB - Young, conscious Long-Evans rats had significantly higher basal mean arterial blood pressure than age-matched Brattleboro rats with hereditary hypothalamic diabetes insipidus, and an intravenous injection of a specific vasopressin V1 receptor blocker significantly decreased the mean arterial pressure in the former animals only. The basal heart rate, which was significantly higher in the Brattleboro rats than in the Long-Evans rats, was unaffected by the vasopressin antagonist in either strain. These results indicate that vasopressin may be important in maintaining normal blood pressure in young rats. PMID- 2526347 TI - Low-speed rotational angioplasty in chronic peripheral artery occlusions: experience in 83 patients. Work in progress. AB - Between December 1986 and October 1988, 83 patients with chronic peripheral artery occlusions were treated with a new technique. In 56 patients, the superficial femoral artery was completely occluded; in 21 patients, the popliteal artery; and in six patients, the iliac artery. The length of occlusion ranged from 5 to 35 cm (mean, 12.5 cm). The duration, estimated by history, was 5-48 months (mean, 16.5 months). In seven patients, durations of 6-36 months were documented angiographically. A flexible, blunt, motor-driven rotating catheter was introduced through an 8-F sheath, and rotational angioplasty was performed at low speed (up to 200 rpm). In 49 of 60 (82%) patients in whom this new technique was used as the primary intervention, the occlusions were successfully reopened. In 23 patients in whom conventional methods had failed more than 4 weeks earlier, the success rate for rotational angioplasty was 67% (12 of 18 patients); when the time interval was less than 4 weeks, only one of five patients was treated successfully. In none of the 83 patients did a perforation occur. This new technique can reopen chronic artery occlusions with a high degree of success and without the danger of vessel-wall perforation, even after failure of conventional techniques. PMID- 2526348 TI - Percutaneous excimer-laser and excimer-laser-assisted angioplasty of the lower extremities: results of initial clinical trial. AB - Percutaneous peripheral excimer-laser angioplasty at 308 nm was used for treatment of 30 patients with peripheral vascular disease. Twenty-eight patients underwent laser-assisted balloon angioplasty, and two patients underwent laser angioplasty alone. Acute angiographic and clinical success was achieved in 24 of 31 (77%) femoropopliteal stenoses and occlusions. Seven of nine (78%) stenoses, six of seven (86%) short (0-5 cm) occlusions, seven of eight (88%) medium-length (6-10 cm) occlusions, three of four (75%) long (11-15 cm) occlusions, and one of three (33%) extreme (greater than 15 cm) occlusions were successfully treated. Inability to treat total occlusions was in each case related to a failure to maintain coaxial position and subintimal passage of the fiber. These cases demonstrate the feasibility of safely performing percutaneous peripheral excimer laser or excimer-laser-assisted angioplasty. The overall frequency of restenosis after a mean follow-up period of 9.1 months was 29%. The data suggest that these procedures may be useful for the treatment of peripheral vascular disease in selected patients. PMID- 2526349 TI - Cirrhosis: diagnosis with sonographic study of the liver surface. AB - To find an objective sonographic sign of cirrhosis, the authors used a small parts probe to examine the liver surface for irregularities that corresponded to those of nodular regeneration. Fifty healthy subjects were examined to assess the pattern of a sonographically normal-appearing liver surface. A second group of 75 patients, mainly with suspected diffuse chronic liver disease, was examined with particular attention to the most commonly described sonographic signs of cirrhosis, and laparoscopy and biopsy were also performed. The liver surface was examined in a third group of 225 patients with cancer in whom metastases had been demonstrated sonographically. A diagnosis of cirrhosis was made with sonography when surface irregularities were observed that were comparable to the anatomic abnormalities of a cirrhotic liver surface. An examination of the liver surface gave the best diagnostic rate for cirrhosis (88%). There were seven false negative results, but in five of them no surface nodularity could be seen at laparoscopy, and the diagnosis was made only on the basis of histologic studies; there was one false-positive result. This study indicated that ultrasonography might be a reliable method to follow up patients with chronic liver disease that may progress to cirrhosis. PMID- 2526350 TI - The kidney: imaging with Tc-99m mercaptoacetyltriglycine, a technetium-labeled analog of iodohippurate. AB - A new renal imaging agent, technetium-99m mercaptoacetyltriglycine (MAG3, mertiatide), is currently undergoing clinical trials. Like iodine-131 orthoiodohippurate (OIH)--and unlike all other available agents--it is avidly secreted by the renal tubules. Fifty patients underwent simultaneous renal imaging studies with I-131 OIH and Tc-99m MAG3. The superior physical properties of the Tc-99m label led to better image quality in all cases, largely due to count rates that were 50-fold better. In two patients, lesions were seen with MAG3 that were not visible with OIH. The biological properties of the two agents were found to be so similar that conventional diagnostic criteria for I-131 OIH could be used for Tc-99m MAG3 with only minor modifications. PMID- 2526351 TI - Transcatheter treatment of congenital heart disease. PMID- 2526352 TI - Dopamine D2 and muscarinic receptor binding characteristics in rat brain after withdrawal of subchronic fluphenazine and sulpiride treatment. AB - 1. The effects of subchronic (10 days) treatment with two antischizophrenic drugs, fluphenazine and sulpiride, on rat brain dopamine and muscarinic receptor sites were studied at various time points after withdrawal from the drug treatments. Striatal D-2 dopamine receptors and cortical muscarinic receptors were characterized with the radioligands 3H-spiperone and 3H-quinuclidinyl benzilate (3H-QNB), respectively. 2. Neither drug treatment affected significantly the number or affinity of cortical muscarinic receptors during the withdrawal time of 18 days. 3. The number of D-2 receptors in striatum was not altered after 4 or 8 fluphenazine-free days, but after 18 days fluphenazine caused an increase of 55% in the density of D-2 receptors. Sulpiride caused a slight increase in Bmax of striatal D-2 receptors after 4 and 8 withdrawal days but the maximum increase of 29% was observed after 18 withdrawal days. 4. Fluphenazine treatment caused an increase in the apparent dissociation constant 4 days after the termination of the treatment suggesting that residual neuroleptic levels may have been retained after this dose regimen, since the Kd returned near control levels as the withdrawal time passed. Sulpiride, however, caused a moderate increase in Kd throughout the withdrawal time. 5. In conclusion, these results suggest that even a rather short treatment with fluphenazine or sulpiride, a classical and an atypical neuroleptic, respectively, can induce pronounced changes in striatal dopamine receptor characteristics after a drug washout period of almost three weeks. Thus, possible delayed actions of classical as well as novel neuroleptic drugs on neurotransmitter function should be considered in studies examining the neuroleptic withdrawal effects. PMID- 2526353 TI - The effects of concurrent D-1 and D-2 dopamine receptor blockade with SCH 23390 and eticlopride, on bombesin-induced behaviours. AB - 1. The objective of the current study was to assess the effect of concurrent D-1 and D-2 receptor blockade on bombesin (BN)-induced grooming and locomotion on the premise that dopamine could be mediating the behavioural effects of BN. 2. Rats implanted with ventricular cannulae were pretretreated systemically with SCH 23390 and/or eticlopride (ETIC) followed by BN (0.5 ug/3 ul; i.c.v.). Grooming and locomotory activity were assessed for 60 min. 3. Individually, SCH 23390 (0.033 mg/kg) and ETIC (0.05 mg/kg) significantly inhibited BN-elicited grooming but not locomotion. Combining ETIC (0.05-0.1 mg/kg) with the fixed dose of SCH 23390 (0.033 mg/kg) significantly inhibited both behaviours in a dose dependent manner with a greater effect on locomotion. Adding SCH 23390 (0.033-0.075 mg/kg) to ETIC (0.05 mg/kg) inhibited both behaviours in a dose dependent manner with a more pronounced effect on grooming. At the combination dosages utilized, SCH 23390 and/or ETIC failed to significantly alter baseline behaviours in control conditions. It is thus concluded that both dopamine receptor subtypes are involved in the expression of BN-induced behaviours with D-1 appearing to have a greater involvement with grooming and D-2 locomotion. PMID- 2526354 TI - Nucleotide regulatory sites on skeletal myosin. AB - Myosin Ca2+-ATPase activity decreased in the presence of ADP. Free ATP acted either as an activator or as an inhibitor depending on its concentration. The inhibition caused by ADP or ATP followed a competitive pattern with respect to the substrate. ATP, at activating concentrations, competed with dinitrophenol and with the anions SCN-, CN- and HCO3- for the same binding sites of myosin, whereas ADP did not compete with them. These results suggest that the nucleotide regulatory site or sites, different from the hydrolytic sites, seem to coincide with the anion binding sites. PMID- 2526355 TI - Attribution for successful relationships between severely disabled adults and personal care attendants. AB - This study explored the mutual perceptions of a convenience sample of 22 pairs of severely disabled adults and their personal care attendants regarding their definitions of the relationship and causal explanations for the relationship outcome (either success or failure). A semistructured interview and Delphi instrument were used to collect data. Attribution theory was used to shape the study design. The most frequently cited causal explanations for a successful outcome were mutual effort, skill, and commitment of the personal care attendant and disabled employer. The majority of subjects defined their relationship as productive and friendly. The data support previous findings and provide direction for programs to prepare disabled people and personal care attendants for their respective roles. PMID- 2526356 TI - Production of haemolysin, aerobactin and enterobactin by strains of Escherichia coli causing bacteraemia in cancer patients, and their resistance to human serum. PMID- 2526357 TI - [Three cases of single coronary artery]. AB - Single coronary artery has been considered a minor coronary anomaly without clinical importance. With the wide spread of coronary angiography, however, the disease has been reported to develop complications at a high rate, such as angina, myocardial infarction and arrhythmia. We report three patients with single coronary artery with several complications. Case 1: A 56-year-old woman having a past history of diabetes mellitus and myocardial infarction was admitted because of the recently developed frequent attacks of effort angina. Treadmill test was positive and thallium-201 exercise myocardial scintigraphy revealed redistribution in the lateral wall. Ascending aortogram suggested that the right coronary artery (RCA) arose from the left sinus of Valsalva. An injection into the right sinus of Valsalva revealed no coronary ostium. Selective left coronary angiogram resulted in the diagnosis of single coronary artery (Smith's type 2) with 90% stenosis in the left circumflex artery (LCX). Left ventriculogram showed hypokinesis in the anterolateral wall. PTCA performed on this patient revealed clinical and nucleomedical improvement. Case 2: A 48-year-old man experienced chest pain and syncope. Electrocardiogram revealed ST-elevations in II, I and a VF, sinus bradycardia and atrioventricular junctional rhythm. Angiography resulted in the diagnosis of single coronary artery (Smith's type 2) with 75% stenosis in the RCA. Ergonovine test was positive. Case 3: A 69-year-old man complained of chest pain. Electrocardiogram showed complete right bundle branch block, sinus bradycardia and atrioventricular junctional rhythm. Cardiac catheterization revealed that this was also a case of single coronary artery (Smith's type 2) with no significant stenosis.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526358 TI - Stressful conditions of work: the participative ergonomics approach. AB - The nature of working stress requires a multi-disciplinary approach for its study. Ergonomics, by its nature multidisciplinary, takes a perspective in which the individual is central and the work and working environment represent the influences to be adjusted. This perspective considers human capacities to have a permissible range of values, within which work demands must be matched. Work demands are more than the physical or mental loads directly related to task performance, since the organisational structure imposes loads. These arise, inter alia, from the relative match between the organisation within the workplace and the structure of the society outside. What people expect from work, and what they get, are also important dimensions of matching the job to the person. The observed stresses, therefore, are not always directly linked to consequences, since there are interactions in what is a multi factor situation. Various aspects of stress are discussed in the paper. Physical stresses and their long and short term impacts are, in many cases, well studied and their effects are known. Work organisation factors such as shift work and repetitive tasks are other stressors, the repetitive work situation is discussed. The whole problem of mental stress is examined more fully than the earlier, perhaps more self evident, stress aspects. Mental stress syndromes are becoming more evident, and it is clear that the interventions are not always satisfactory. In investigations of these situations the involvement of the subjects is vital, the stress effects are often only demonstrated by the subjects' reports.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526359 TI - [Present-day occupational medicine: reality and needs]. PMID- 2526360 TI - [Economic losses due to persistent disability among adult population of the city of Frunze caused by rheumatic diseases]. PMID- 2526361 TI - [Rheumatological service in Leningrad: its founding, present status and prospects]. PMID- 2526362 TI - [Mechanisms of pain syndrome in various vertebrogenic diseases]. PMID- 2526363 TI - Development of an acute model for the study of chloromethanediphosphonate nephrotoxicity. AB - Chloromethanediphosphonate (Cl2MDP), a cation chelator, is used as a therapeutic for hypercalcemia of malignancy. Cl2MDP exhibits nephrotoxic potential. Thus, a useful model has been developed to study the mechanism of injury. Intraperitoneal administration of highly exaggerated dosages, specifically 200 mg/kg b.i.d., resulted in a consistent mild to moderate extent of kidney damage after the third day of treatment in rats. Proteinuria and lowered serum phosphorus levels occur prior to onset of histopathologic changes. Injury was characterized as necrosis of proximal tubular epithelium with predilection for pars recta. Unlike many renal toxicity models, the necrosis occurs as cell lysis only after 24 to 48 hours of treatment. However, this model significantly reduces the time required to induce renal toxicity observed in routine toxicity studies from months of treatment to less than 1 week and will, thus, serve as a baseline for subsequent pathogenetic studies. PMID- 2526364 TI - A controlled study on the outcome of inpatient and outpatient treatment of low back pain. Part I. Pain, disability, compliance, and reported treatment benefits three months after treatment. AB - Outcome of inpatient and outpatient treatment of low back pain was studied in 459 patients (aged 35-54 years, 63% men); 156 inpatients, 150 outpatients and 153 controls. Changes in low back pain and in disability caused by it, and adherence and accomplishment of back exercises were used as short-term outcome criteria. The overall results showed a significant decrease in pain and disability and better compliance in the two treated groups when compared to the controls. There was also a significant difference in treatment gains between the inpatients and outpatients; i.e. the decrease in pain was greater and the frequency of back exercises higher in the inpatients. The inpatients also estimated their treatment benefits more positively than the outpatients. PMID- 2526365 TI - A controlled study on the outcome of inpatient and outpatient treatment of low back pain. Part II. Effects on physical measurements three months after treatment. AB - Inpatient and outpatient treatments were compared with a control intervention in 288 men and 168 women, aged 35-54, who were at work, but suffered from chronic or recurrent low back pain. Physical measurements and back pain assessments were carried out before the intervention and at a 3-month follow-up. Physical fitness improved most in the inpatients, but the outpatients did not differ from the controls. Correlations between back pain and physical measurements indicated that increase of lumbar and hip mobility was more important than increase of trunk strength for subjective progress in these patients. Increased trunk extension strength correlated significantly with subjective progress in women, who also had higher correlations between improved physical fitness and progress than men. PMID- 2526367 TI - Low back trouble among urban bus drivers in Denmark. AB - The occurrence of low back trouble and possible connection with psychosocial conditions among urban bus drivers were studied using a questionnaire and subsequent registration of hospital discharges. 2,045 (83%) full-time male bus drivers in the three largest cities in Denmark answered a questionnaire in 1978 regarding psychosocial factors and health. The prevalence of frequent low back pain was 57%. In a control group of 195 motormen the prevalence was 40%. Standardized Morbidity Ratio for bus drivers discharged from hospital during the period 1978-1984 with the diagnosis lumbar disc herniation was 137 compared to all Danish men. These differences were statistically significant. Of psychosocial factors only "the feeling of being mentally unbalanced" was found to be statistically significantly related to subsequent hospital discharge with a LBT diagnosis. Long seniority as bus driver of those discharged from hospital with LBT makes it probable that LBT has etiologic factors in the work environment. The sedentary position and whole-body vibrations may be contributory causes. PMID- 2526366 TI - Diabetes mellitus and disability pension. A descriptive study of all diabetic subjects granted disability pension in Sweden in 1980. AB - Disability documents of all diabetic persons (n = 1,707) granted a disability pension in Sweden during 1980 were studied. The following factors were analysed: age, sex, civil status, profession, unemployment, being a housewife, immigration status, form for disability pension application, duration of diabetes, type of treatment, presence of classical late complications and age at onset of diabetes, obesity and alcohol problems. Functional handicaps and symptoms related to a clinically advanced diabetes mellitus could be regarded as the basis for the decision to grant a disability pension to 20-25% of the pensioners. For the remaining 75-80% neither the diabetic state nor its late complications could be held responsible for reduced work capacity. Rather, symptoms like angina pectoris and rheumatic symptoms and many other factors such as obesity, alcohol problems, being an immigrant, or being unemployed influenced the decision to grant a disability pension. PMID- 2526368 TI - Advances in humic substances research. A collection of papers from the Fourth International Meeting of the International Humic Substances Society. Matalascanas Beach, Huelva, Spain, 3-7 October 1988. PMID- 2526369 TI - Immunologic tolerance: collaboration between antigen and lymphokines. AB - Immunologic tolerance is the process whereby limits are placed on the degree to which lymphocytes respond to an animal's inherent antigens. It is a quantitative rather than an absolute term, as some autoantibody formation is common. Contrary to early hopes, it is not due to some single, simple causative mechanism confined to early developmental stages of the fetal immune system. Rather, self-tolerance results from a variety of complementary mechanisms and feedback loops in the immune system and is thus best seen as part of the general process of immunoregulation. PMID- 2526370 TI - Inhibitors of angiotensin-converting enzyme prevent myointimal proliferation after vascular injury. AB - The role of a local angiotensin system in the vascular response to arterial injury was investigated by administering the angiotensin-converting enzyme (CE) inhibitor cilazapril to normotensive rats in which the left carotid artery was subjected to endothelial denudation and injury by balloon catheterization. In control animals, by 14 days after balloon injury, the processes of smooth muscle cell (SMC) proliferation, migration of SMCs from the media to the intima, and synthesis of extracellular matrix produced marked thickening of the intima, with reduction of the cross-sectional area of the lumen. However, in animals that received continuous treatment with the CE inhibitor, neointima formation was decreased (by about 80 percent), and lumen integrity was preserved. Thus, the angiotensin-converting enzyme may participate in modulating the proliferative response of the vascular wall after arterial injury, and inhibition of this enzyme may have therapeutic applications to prevent the proliferative lesions that occur after coronary angioplasty and vascular surgery. PMID- 2526371 TI - The cell cycle coming under control. AB - An article in 30 June issue (";Dangerous' liaisons in cell biology," p. 1539), which discussed the commentary in the 2 June issue of the journal Cell by Max L. Birnstiel and Meinrad Busslinger regarding the transgenic mice experiments of Corrado Spadafora and co-workers, stated that Vienna's Institute of Molecular Pathology (IMP), for which Birnstiel and Busslinger work, was seeking patents on extensions of the Spadafora experiments. On further investigation, we have learned that this is not correct. At present no applications have been applied for or granted to IMP or its parent companies Genentech and Boehringer Ingelheim. We wish to correct the record, apologize to Dr. Birnstiel and Dr. Busslinger for this misstatement, and alert our readers to their letter, which is printed in our Letters section on page 243. PMID- 2526372 TI - Endothelial cell seeding in the management of vascular thrombosis. PMID- 2526373 TI - Vascular grafting in the management of thrombotic disorders. AB - Currently available vascular prostheses yield lower patency rates than do autogenous vascular grafts when implanted into small and medium caliber arteries, in part due to the relatively thrombogenic nature of the tissue reactions that they elicit. Our laboratory has developed techniques for enhancing spontaneous reendothelialization of blood-contacting biomaterials. Prostheses are constructed of bioresorbable lactide-glycolide copolymers that are phagocytized by macrophages. After implantation into animal models, they elicit extensive transinterstitial capillary infiltration and an early endothelialized luminal surface that responds to sodium arachidonate by production of 6-keto-PGF1 alpha at rates resembling normal control artery. Concurrent cell culture studies have shown that macrophages in culture with these copolymers release into their media growth factors mitogenic for quiescent endothelial cells. Additional studies have developed a method of affixing (ECGF) to biomaterial surfaces. The future development of more clinically efficacious small vessel prostheses will depend on optimization of the tissue reactions, including either enhancement of spontaneous endothelialization, endothelial cell transplantation, or prostheses pre endothelialized in culture, and on the function of these endothelialized surfaces in an anticoagulant fashion. PMID- 2526374 TI - Lumbar discography--where are we today? PMID- 2526375 TI - Bone mineral content, gender, body posture, and build in relation to back pain in middle age. AB - In 575 55-year-old residents of Malmo, Sweden, the authors studied the interrelationships between back pain and bone mineral content, degree of kyphosis and lordosis, height, and weight, and in women also the age of menarche and menopause, and number of childbirths. Men with back pain tended to be heavier than those without back pain. Back pain was not related to body height nor to degree of kyphosis or lordosis. In women, a positive correlation was found between the degree of kyphosis and lordosis and body weight. Body height in women also was correlated to degree of kyphosis, but not to the degree of lordosis. In men, the authors found no such relationships. Bone mineral content was not related to the occurrence of back pain but to body height and weight in men and in women. Back pain in women was not related to the age at menarche or menopause, nor to the number of children to whom they had given birth. PMID- 2526376 TI - Variation in lumbar sagittal mobility with low-back trouble. AB - The influence of low-back trouble on lumbar sagittal mobility was explored in 958 individuals aged 10 to 84 years. Experience of low-back trouble was determined by questionnaire, and categorized as none, a previous history, or a current spell. Maximal mobility was estimated from flexicurve records of back surface curvature. The results for adults revealed that mean mobility values were reduced by both previous and current low-back trouble, particularly in the upper lumbar region, when compared with nonsufferers. Stepwise regression analyses showed that variation in mobility was best accounted for by the cumulative effects of age and sex. These variables accounted for approximately one-third of the variation in mobility: low-back trouble only accounted for an additional 1%. At the extremes of the range, both hypomobility and hypermobility were identified as risk indicators for low-back trouble. Relative hypermobility was not confined to subjects with no history of back trouble; some current sufferers had particularly high levels of mobility. Similarly hypomobility was found in nonsufferers as well as in those with back trouble. The data indicated that young adults (notably males) with previous low-back trouble may not recover their previous mobility on symptomatic resolution. The finding of hypermobility in current sufferers indicates that mobilization therapy may not be appropriate for such patients. PMID- 2526377 TI - Back pain after Harrington rod instrumentation for idiopathic scoliosis. AB - The purpose of this study is to compare preoperative and postoperative back pain problems in 182 patients operated on for idiopathic scoliosis. Preoperatively 32% of the patients presented with back pain, increasing to 66% postoperatively. Minor degrees of back pain increased (from 45 to 65%) and more severe complaints decreased (from 55 to 35%). Moderate to severe back pain increases from 0 to 46%, together with lower hook placement from L1 to L5. It is concluded that, ideally, the lower limit of the fusion should not go beyond L1 or L2. Lower fusions are prone to give more back pain, with major problems, however, only in a minority of cases (7% in fusions to L4-L5). PMID- 2526378 TI - Organization of the pneumological care provided to the rural population in the Saratov region. PMID- 2526379 TI - Selection of grafts currently available for repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms. AB - The ideal vascular graft has not yet been developed. However, in the aortic position, excellent results can be obtained using a variety of currently available grafts, which offer similar patency rates and durability. Therefore, graft selection depends on other considerations, such as the ease of handling and preclotting requirements. PMID- 2526380 TI - MTX-5-FU combination therapy compared to FUDR monotherapy in nude mice. PMID- 2526381 TI - Value of in vivo tissue testing in predicting the clinical response to regional perfusion chemotherapy in colorectal cancer patients with liver metastases. PMID- 2526382 TI - Topical timolol and the human retinal circulation. PMID- 2526383 TI - Severe arterial cerebral thrombosis in a patient with protein S deficiency (moderately reduced total and markedly reduced free protein S): a family study. AB - Deficiency of protein S has been associated with an increased risk of thrombotic disease as already shown for protein C deficiency. Deficiencies of any of these two proteins predispose to venous thrombosis but have been only rarely associated with arterial thrombosis. In this study we describe a case of severe cerebral arterial thrombosis in a 44-year old woman with protein S deficiency. The defect was characterized by moderately reduced levels of total and markedly reduced levels of free protein S. C4b-bp level was normal. Protein C, AT III and routine coagulation tests were within the normal limits. In her family two other members showed the same defect. All the affected members had venous thrombotic manifestations, two of them at a relatively young age. No other risk factors for thrombotic episodes were present in the family members. The patient reported was treated with ASA and dipyridamole and so far there were no relapses. PMID- 2526386 TI - The relative frequency of hereditary thrombotic disorders among 107 patients with thrombophilia in Israel. AB - Since most patients with thrombophilia in Israel are referred for diagnosis to our center, it was possible to estimate the relative frequency of the hereditary disorders leading to thrombophilia. 107 unrelated patients were evaluated over 4 years. Diagnoses were established in 23 patients (21.5%) while in 84 (78.5%) no abnormality was detected. Antithrombin III deficiency was found in 8 patients (7.5%), dominant protein C deficiency in 6 (5.6%), recessive homozygous protein C deficiency in 1, protein S deficiency in 3 (2.8%) and dysfibrinogenemia in 1. Four additional patients (3.7%) had a lupus anticoagulant. The frequency of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism was similar in patients with and without a definite diagnosis. Thrombosis of visceral or cerebral vessels and a positive family history were more frequent among patients in whom a definite diagnosis was made. In both groups there was a substantial lag between the time of presentation of the first thrombotic episode and the time of evaluation. Since the number of referred patients with thrombophilia has gradually increased over the period of the study, it is at present impossible to establish the prevalence of the various hereditary disorders leading to thrombophilia in the population. PMID- 2526384 TI - ARIC hemostasis study--I. Development of a blood collection and processing system suitable for multicenter hemostatic studies. AB - In order to carry out a multicenter study aimed at understanding the association of hemostatic factors with atherosclerotic vascular disorders for the Atherosclerosis Risk In Communities (ARIC) Study, we compared a blood collection and processing system developed in our laboratory with the state-of-the-art procedures. The salient features of our system included the use of a new phlebotomy set for venipuncture, the use of Millipore filters for removing platelet residues in the plasma and the use of a mixture of anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents for inhibiting the in vitro activation of platelets, coagulation and fibrinolytic system. The results derived from systematic evaluations indicate that this newly developed system yields the lowest values of plasma beta TG, PF 4 and FPA when compared with the reported values. The technique also gave reliable values of representative hemostatic measurements such as fibrinogen, factor VII, factor VIII, von Willebrand factor, antithrombin III, protein C, tissue-type plasminogen activator, and serum thromboxane B2. Further experiments revealed that the samples withstood temporary storage at -70 degrees C and overnight "shipping" manipulations without significant changes in the hemostatic values. We conclude that the described blood collection and processing system may be a valuable asset for conducting multicenter cooperative clinical trials and epidemiologic studies involving blood collection by multiple field centers or clinics. PMID- 2526385 TI - R 68 070: thromboxane A2 synthetase inhibition and thromboxane A2/prostaglandin endoperoxide receptor blockade combined in one molecule--II. Pharmacological effects in vivo and ex vivo. AB - R 68 070 or (E)-5-[[[(3-pyridinyl)[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]- methylen]amino]oxy] pentanoic acid (Janssen Research Foundation, Belgium), a newly developed compound, combining specific thromboxane A2 (TXA2) synthetase inhibition with TXA2/prostaglandin endoperoxide receptor blockade in one molecule, is active in vivo in man and in experimental animals. In man (n = 5), a single oral 400-mg dose of R 68 070 produces deep and protracted inhibition of platelet TXA2 synthetase activity (greater than or equal to 90% for 48 h), increases serum levels of immunoreactive 6-keto-PGF1 alpha, reduces platelet aggregation in P.R.P. induced by U 46619, collagen (greater than 70% for 8 h), arachidonic acid (greater than 90% for 18 h) and prolongs template bleeding times significantly, without affecting plasma coagulation or fibrinolysis. In rats, R 68 070 (1.25 mg/kg orally, -2 h) singly prolongs tail bleeding times as much as a combination of TXA2 synthetase inhibition (dazoxiben 10 mg/kg) and TXA2/prostaglandin endoperoxide receptor blockade (BM 13177 40 mg/kg). In dogs, the compound reduces coronary thrombosis induced by electrical damage (1.25 mg/kg i.v.) and prevents the evolution of occlusion/reperfusion-induced arrhythmias into ventricular fibrillation (2.5 mg/kg i.v.). R 68 070 thus may be an appropriate pharmacological tool to analyze the roles and interactions of agonistic (TXA2, prostaglandin endoperoxides) and antagonistic (PGD2, PGE2, PGI2) metabolites of arachidonic acid in experimental and human pathologies. PMID- 2526387 TI - A comparison between effects of estradiol valerate and low dose ethinyl estradiol on haemostasis parameters. AB - Ethinyl estradiol (EE) is still used to some extent as hormonal replacement therapy (HRT) in the climacteric period. As regards oral contraception, it is well known that the induced increase in cardiovascular disease is related to the estrogen component (invariably EE) in a dose-related fashion. Considerably lower doses of EE are needed in HRT compared to oral contraception. To delineate and compare effects of EE and estradiol valerate (E2V) in doses needed in HRT on haemostasis parameters, 24 postmenopausal women were engaged in a study with an open cross-over design. The doses compared (10 micrograms EE and 2 mg E2V daily) are the lowest which eliminate climacteric symptoms in a majority of women. Unlike E2V, EE caused increased levels of factor VII:Ag, factor VIII:C and beta thromboglobulin, which may be changes towards hypercoagulability. Both estrogens decreased the AT III activity. Long-term administration (6 + 12 w) of the estrogens induced further changes in haemostatic parameters. 10 micrograms EE increased factor VII:Ag in contrast to 2 mg E2V. Furthermore both estrogens increased factor VIII:C and factor II-VII-X. A decrease in platelet count was induced by both EE and E2V. Oral contraception and adjuvant estrogen therapy in men with prostatic carcinoma are known to imply an increased cardiovascular risk. It is noteworthy that the pattern of changes in haemostatic parameters induced by as little as 10 micrograms of EE is the same as seen after the administration of combined oral contraceptives or the substantially higher doses of EE given as adjuvant therapy to men with prostatic carcinoma. PMID- 2526389 TI - Platelet activation induced by a stable analogue of endoperoxides (U46619) PMID- 2526388 TI - Anticardiolipin antibodies are elevated in HIV-1 infected haemophiliacs but do not predict for disease progression. AB - Levels of anticardiolipin antibodies (ACA) were measured in 55 patients with haemophilia A in serum samples obtained in 1983 and in 1987. Twenty-one patients were negative for anti HIV-1 antibodies in 1983 and remained negative in 1987; 34 patients had anti HIV-1 antibodies in 1983; 17 of these latter patients remained asymptomatic, whereas 17 patients developed ARC or AIDS during the 4 years follow up. Thirteen anti HIV-1 negative patients had elevated ACA levels in 1983; subsequently, a significant decrease was observed in all these subjects (p less than 0.001). All anti HIV-1 positive patients had elevated ACA levels in 1983; normal values were found in 9 patients in 1987. Yet, these changes were not significant (p greater than 0.05). ACA levels were significantly higher in HIV-1 infected patients than in those without anti HIV-1 antibodies (p less than 0.05). There was no difference of ACA levels between the two anti HIV-1 positive patient groups, be it in 1983 or be it in 1987 (p greater than 0.05). There was no correlation of ACA levels with serum IgG concentrations, CD4+ lymphocytes, or the consumption of factor VIII concentrates. PMID- 2526390 TI - Correlation between plasma levels of growth factors and von Willebrand factor. AB - Intimal proliferation of smooth muscle cells is an important characteristic of developing atherosclerotic lesions and late occlusion of venous bypass grafts. Platelet-derived growth factor, released from aggregating platelets at sites of endothelial injury, has been suggested as a main factor responsible for intimal hyperplasia. The von Willebrand factor is a platelet binding protein secreted by endothelial cells and increased plasma levels of this factor has been identified as a marker of endothelial injury. In the present study we have analysed plasma levels of von Willebrand factor and growth factors in healthy controls, young post-infarction patients and patients with recent coronary bypass surgery. The results demonstrate a significant correlation between plasma growth factor activity and the level of von Willebrand factor (R = 0.52, p less than 0.01) and support the notion of a coupling between endothelial injury and release of platelets mitogens. PMID- 2526391 TI - The conversion of streptokinase-plasminogen complex to SK-plasmin complex in the presence of fibrin or fibrinogen. AB - When equimolar amounts of Glu-plasminogen (Glu-plg) and streptokinase (SK) were mixed in the presence of S-2251, SK-plg complex was formed and only gradually converted to SK-plasmin complex. When equimolar amounts of Glu-plg and SK were mixed with fibrinogen or fibrin, Glu-plg was converted faster to plasmin suggesting that Glu-plg molecule in the complex was converted to plasmin. It is thus concluded that SK-plg complex is converted to SK-plasmin complex slowly in the absence of fibrin or fibrinogen. When SK-plg-fibrin(ogen) complex was formed, plasminogen moiety was converted to plasmin faster inside a trimolecular complex of SK, plasminogen and fibrin(ogen). PMID- 2526392 TI - [Abdominoplasty--hazardous surgery?]. AB - 417 abdominoplasties performed by the author during five years were studied retrospectively, with special reference to indications, technique and especially complications. Some publications from other countries were reviewed and their results compared with the present study. Six patients developed general complications. Two of these patients were hospitalized. 34 patients developed local complications. 33 of these patients were treated as outpatients. These numbers do not differ significantly from those found in comparable foreign studies. Different alternatives in the treatment of postoperative skin slough are discussed. Morbidity was not increased in obese patients. Both the primary procedure and revisions of local complications can be performed without hospitalization. The author advocates early mobilisation and emphasises the importance of selection. PMID- 2526393 TI - [Marketing of Carduran]. PMID- 2526394 TI - [Surgical treatment of renal artery stenosis]. AB - Renal artery stenosis may be the cause of hypertension and reduced renal function. The aim of surgical treatment is to eliminate or reduce the hypertension and to preserve or improve kidney function. At our hospital the standard surgical procedure is aortorenal bypass. We present the results of this procedure in the treatment of 23 patients (27 bypasses) during a five-year period. During the same periode nine patients were treated with percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty. Arterial reconstruction of the renal artery is a relatively simple and cost-effective treatment. Furthermore, the rate of postoperative complications is low. PMID- 2526396 TI - [Comparative analysis of morbidity with temporary loss of work capacity in dental workers]. PMID- 2526395 TI - [Effect of climate exposure on immunologic indices during the treatment of gingivitis in children]. AB - Physical and environmental impacts promoted a substantial improvement in the gingival conditions in children with catarrhal gingivitis. The content of SIgA increased in mixed unstimulated saliva, along with other positive laboratory and functional signs. The data suggest that aero-, helio and thalassotherapy are not only the factors of treatment, but also the natural unspecific stimulators important for the increase of an organism's tissues resistance. PMID- 2526397 TI - [Organization of the admission of dental patients at an orthodontics department]. PMID- 2526398 TI - [Medico-economic characteristics of hospital care in diseases and injuries of the tongue]. PMID- 2526400 TI - Fatal erythroderma (suspected graft-versus-host disease) after cholecystectomy. Retrospective analysis. AB - Fatal postoperative erythroderma (POE) developed in a 52-year-old woman with gallstones who underwent elective cholecystectomy. During surgery, she was transfused with 3 units of unirradiated packed red cells stored in the liquid state for at least 4 days after collection. The POE is believed to have been the result of transfusion-associated graft-versus-host disease (TA-GVHD). The diagnosis of GVHD was based upon the characteristic clinical picture and retrospective HLA typing. The implicated donor was homozygous for an HLA haplotype that appeared to be shared with the recipient: A24-CBL-Bw52-DR2-DRw52 DQw1, the most common haplotype in the Japanese population. This case raises the possibility that a transfusion of relatively fresh blood from a donor who has no HLA antigens incompatible with the recipient may result in GVHD in patients with no apparent immunoincompetence who are undergoing relatively minor surgery with no chemotherapy or radiation therapy. PMID- 2526399 TI - Differences in the susceptibility of platelets to freezing damage in relation to size. AB - Previous studies have shown that cryopreservation of normal platelets induces a reduction in the contents of secretion granules, the generation of thromboxane B2, and aggregability. The present study investigates whether these changes in the total population occur to the same extent in four size-dependent subpopulations with mean platelet volumes of 4.2, 5.7, 8.0, and 11.1 microns 3, obtained by counterflow centrifugation. Cryopreservation reduced the contents of the alpha granule markers and the generation of thromboxane B2 in the platelets from the four fractions to the same extent as in the platelets from the total suspension. Maximal aggregation of the platelets in response to collagen was measured by optical aggregation. The average decrease in light transmission after freezing was 47 +/- 3 percent (SEM) for the platelets in the total population, 40 +/- 3 percent for the largest platelets, and 65 +/- 5 percent for the smallest platelets, which indicates that aggregability was better preserved in the larger platelets than in the smaller cells. It is possible that, in the smallest platelets, a decrease in thromboxane generation of approximately 70 percent becomes rate-limiting for aggregation. Further improvements in the clinical use of freeze-preserved platelets may be sought in the preparation of concentrates with relatively high counts of large platelets. PMID- 2526401 TI - Natural suppressor cells derived from adult spleen and thymus. AB - Natural suppressor (NS) cell lines were derived from the spleen and thymus of adult mice using procedures previously used to derive NS cells from neonatal spleen. Adult spleen-derived NS cells showed slightly greater suppression of the MLR than neonatal spleen-derived NS cells, and thymus-derived NS cells showed the least suppression. Adult spleen-derived NS cells prevented death from lethal GVHD when administered to sublethally irradiated weanling mice that received an otherwise lethal GVHD provoking inoculum. The stable cell surface phenotype of adult tissue-derived NS cells was similar to that previously described for neonatal and TLI spleen-derived NS cells: strongly positive for Thy 1.2, Ly-5, and asialo-GM1 antigens while negative for Ly-1, Ly-2, L3T4, MAC-1, and surface immunoglobulin. PMID- 2526402 TI - Evidence that atrial natriuretic factor is the humoral factor by which volume loading or mannitol infusion produces an improved renal function after acute ischemia. An experimental study in dogs. AB - This experimental study in dogs was designed to investigate whether maximal loading produces atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) release and whether this physiological peptide is involved in the improvement of the early renal function recovery after acute ischemia. The experimental protocol included a renal artery occlusion for 45 min in uninephrectomized dogs and the measurement of various parameters of renal function over 2-hr period after declamping. There were 3 experimental groups. In the control group (I) (n = 10), the dogs received, after ischemia, an isotonic saline solution infusion at a rate of 0.2 ml/kg/min. In group II, (n = 10) the animals underwent acute volemic expansion (1 ml/kg/min) with whole blood (hematocrit approximately equal to 25%) during the ischemic period, and after declamping, an isotonic saline infusion (NaCl 0.9%) infusion at the same rate as in the control group. In group III, (n = 8) the dogs only received NaCl 0.9% (0.2 ml/kg/min) before ischemia and alpha human ANF (3.6 ng/kg/min) dissolved in saline after ischemia and during the 2 hr of the renal recovery period. Volemic expansion induced a highly significant increase of the cardiac filling pressures concomitant with a prompt but transient 5-6-fold increase in ANF levels (357 +/- 92 pg/ml versus 60 +/- 4.1 pg/ml in controls at the time of declamping [P less than 0.05]). With these higher plasma ANF levels in overloaded animals, we observed, 2 hr after declamping, considerably improved renal function recovery in terms of glomerular filtration rate--37.5% +/- 8.7 versus 11.8 +/- 3.9%; urinary sodium excretion rate--53.89 mu eq/min versus 5.36 +/- 1.2 mu eq/min (P less than 0.01); total Na reabsorption rate--1.2 +/- 0.23 meq/min versus 0.28 +/- 0.09 meq/min (P less than 0.01) (group II vs. controls, respectively). A 1-28 alpha ANF infusion after the ischemic insult allowed a comparable but more significant improved recovery of renal function--indeed, 2 hr after declamping, the GFR reached 73.7 +/- 14% of the preoperative GFR values. The urinary sodium excretion rate was 15-fold higher than in controls, and the total and fractional sodium reabsorption rates followed a similar increase. These beneficial effects of ANF were obtained with low doses of synthetic ANF (3.6 ng/kg/min) inducing plasma levels slightly higher (120 pg/ml) than in controls and comparable to the levels reached in the overloading group. In addition, maximal loading or ANF infusion produces an inhibition of the aldosterone rise occurring after the ischemic insult.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526403 TI - [The first scientist-surgeon of the Don (on the 130th anniversary of the birth of Prof. Nikolai Vasil'evich Parinskii)]. PMID- 2526404 TI - [70 years of the monograph "Biliary calculi and surgery of the bile ducts" by S.P. Fedorov]. PMID- 2526405 TI - [Diagnosis of acute pancreatitis with special reference to changes in the capillary asymmetry index]. PMID- 2526406 TI - [Oblique-transverse approach to the extrahepatic bile ducts]. AB - A new access to extrahepatic bile ducts is proposed which keeps the lateral abdominal muscles and intercostal vascular-nervous plexuses intact. The spatial conditions of the access were studied experimentally in 108 corpses. The clinical assessment was tested in 102 operations in comparison with the Kocher access. The oblique-transversal access was found to have advantages from the clinico physiological viewpoint as well (the development of the postoperative period, restoration of the external respiration function and the function of the abdominal wall muscles). PMID- 2526407 TI - Toxicity of Haemophilus pleuropneumoniae to porcine lung macrophages. AB - Viable Haemophilus pleuropneumoniae bacteria were toxic for porcine alveolar macrophages in vitro. This cytotoxic effect proved to be dose-related. A cell free extract of H. pleuropneumoniae, heat-killed bacteria, and a Pasteurella multocida field strain were nontoxic. When macrophages were cultured with H. pleuropneumoniae bacteria in a ratio of 100 macrophages to six bacteria, ultrastructural signs of cellular degeneration were observed within 1 h. This degeneration was observed in macrophages with or without phagosomes containing H. pleuropneumoniae. A cytotoxic substance was filtered from a H. pleuropneumoniae culture in Eagle's minimal essential medium supplemented with Earle's salts (EMEM) and 10% foetal calf serum that was incubated for 10 h at 37 degrees C. This substance was destroyed by heating at 65 degrees C for 30 min. Macrophages were less susceptible to the toxic effect of H. pleuropneumoniae when serum of convalescent pigs was added. PMID- 2526409 TI - [The experience of the Armenian Republic Endoscopic Center in the active detection of tumors of the urinary system]. AB - The results of screening for urinary tract tumors provided by the Republican Endoscopic Center are discussed. Groups at high risk for cancer were formed on the evidence of microhematuria. Cases of hematuria were referred to the endoscopic center for complex endoscopic, sonographic and morphological examination. Out of 575 patients at high risk, renal pathology was detected in 39.7% (tumors in 3.1% included) and urethral and bladder pathology--in 19.1% (benign and malignant tumors of the bladder in 4.4% included). PMID- 2526408 TI - Characterization of Brucella canis protein antigens and polypeptide antibody responses of infected dogs. AB - The cytoplasmic protein antigens (CPAg) of Brucella canis were characterized by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and analysis of 35S-labeled polypeptides. Approximate molecular weights of the immunoreactive polypeptides were determined by migration patterns of the immunoprecipitated polypeptides after SDS-PAGE or Western immunoblotting of sera collected at various times after experimental infection of dogs. Polypeptides were specifically precipitated by sera of infected dogs, but not from the sera of normal or false-positive (seropositive, non-infected) animals. During the initial month after infection, proteins with molecular weight masses (MW) of approximately 18, 22, 31, 42 and 54 kDa were commonly recognized. A 20-kDa polypeptide was first recognized at 8-10 weeks after infection, but it was detected inconsistently after 6 months. Additional polypeptides detected from 2 to 12 months post-infection had MW of 22, 66-68 and, less regularly, 42, 60, 82, 100 and greater than 200 kDa. The polypeptides most consistently recognized in sera from B. canis-infected dogs had MW of 18, 22 and 68 kDa. PMID- 2526410 TI - Transfusion history, T cell subsets and natural killer cytotoxicity in patients with colorectal cancer. AB - Blood transfusions are associated with clinical phenomena which are attributable to immune suppression. Since suppression of immune function is associated with a high risk of spontaneous malignancies, we studied T cell subsets and natural killer (NK) cytotoxicity in colorectal cancer patients and correlated the results with patients' transfusion histories. Twelve percent (14) of the 115 patients had been transfused an average of 19 years previously. Recipients of blood transfusions had low levels of peripheral lymphocytes (p = 0.191), T cells (p = 0.015), helper cells (p = 0.016) and suppressor cells (p = 0.2651) compared to previously untransfused patients. NK cytotoxicity was also significantly reduced in transfusion recipients although NK cell numbers were comparable in both groups. These results support previous studies indicating that blood transfusions cause lifelong immune modulation in the recipient. Since blood transfusions have numerous beneficial effects and immune modulation is often beneficial, longitudinal studies are necessary to define the lifetime risks and benefits. PMID- 2526411 TI - [Prevention of nervous system diseases in workers manufacturing rubber products]. AB - Workers of a rubber plant with allergic pathology showed marked changes of the nervous system manifested in vegetovascular dystonia mainly of the hypertensive type and in hypertensive disease (grades I-II). These changes developed often against the background of urticaria, Quincke edema, allergic rhinitis. Prophylactic measures are proposed on the reduction of allergic morbidity and nervous system diseases in workers of the rubber industry. PMID- 2526412 TI - [The vitamin B6, PP and C allowances of patients in the acute period of ischemic stroke]. AB - The content of B6, PP and C vitamins was determined in the blood, CSF and urine in 64 patients with ischemic stroke during admission and on the 10-15 and 25-30 days of the disease. Patients with ischemic stroke show a marked deficit of the mentioned vitamins. When vitamins were not included in the complex treatment of stroke their deficit remained, though the general condition of the patients improved. PMID- 2526413 TI - [The content of regulatory peptides in the blood of patients with chronic gastric and duodenal diseases]. AB - The content of gastrin, beta-endorphin, insulin, C-peptide in 129 patients with chronic gastric and duodenal diseases was studied by standard radioimmunoassay during the acute phase of the disease and after routine treatment. It is concluded that normalization of the hormonal homeostasis is one the criteria of treatment efficacy. PMID- 2526414 TI - "Hope in another direction": compensation for work-related illness among women, 1900-1960--Part I. AB - This two-part article looks at women's attempts to receive compensation for their work-related illnesses in the first sixty years of the twentieth century. Women pressed claims through narrow legal remedies in the tort and workers' compensation systems for a small part of their massive burden of work-related illnesses. Part I examines the network of women advocates around occupational disease compensation; women's experience under the employers' liability and workers' compensation systems; women's most frequently compensated illnesses under workers' compensation, dermatitis and systemic poisoning; and notable litigation episodes involving phosphorus and radium poisoning. Part II of this article, to be published in the next issue, focuses on compensation for tuberculosis, asbestosis, beryllium disease, and illnesses with a mental component. PMID- 2526415 TI - [Validity of the Hoppe List. An empirical study of patients with backache]. AB - Construct validity, criterion-oriented validity, and differential validity were assessed to determine the validity of the Hoppe-Liste (HL). Construct validity was ascertained by the multitrait-multimethod analysis suggested by Campbell & Fiske. Data regarding both convergent and discriminant validity show that the HL measures the construct pain. A comparison of the HL with the Revised Multidimensional Pain Scale and the Visual Analogue Scale suggests the criterion oriented validity of the HL. Group-specific scores of the HL scales and of correlation patterns between scales tentatively support differential validity. It is concluded that the HL seems to be a suitable instrument for measuring the intensity and quality of pain. PMID- 2526416 TI - [Pain following operations of the lumbar spine. The "failed back surgery syndrome"]. AB - This is a follow up study of 61 patients with a 'failed back surgery syndrome' (FBSS). The mean follow up time is 5.4 years after the first operation on the lumbar spine. The diagnosis before the first operation was in 35 patients an entrapment disease (disc herniation or stenosis of the spinal canal), in 25 patients a segmental instability and once a deformity. The reason for the development of a 'failed back surgery syndrome' was in 18% a perioperative complication, in 24% a late unhappy consequence of the operation, in 40% an assessment- or treatment error. In 18% we were not able to figure out any reason for the failure. The correlating diagnosis were: postoperative infections 3, hematoma 1, disc herniation or instability on a second level 12, a second disc herniation at the same level 3, scarring or arachnoiditis 2, instability 18, lateral spinal stenosis 10. We emphasize the importance to distinguish between a clinical relevant and irrelevant diagnosis and to use special tests for this differentiation. PMID- 2526417 TI - [Body traction using centrifugal force in the treatment of spinal diseases]. AB - In self treatment bodystretching centrifugal force was used in order to diminish backbone pains after discektomy L3/L4. After 13 minutes of treatment with up to 1.5 G centrifugal force related to the lumbal region on a centrifuge of the Max Planck-Institut fur Verhaltensphysiologie Seewiesen the author felt free of pains in the back. The pains have not returned for 18 months yet. PMID- 2526418 TI - Duration of immunity to hepatitis B vaccination in institutionalized mentally retarded patients. AB - Susceptible individuals of an institution for the mentally retarded (20 residents and six staff members) were vaccinated with Hevac B Pasteur (5 micrograms, months 0, 1, 2, 14). There were protective levels of anti-HBs in 75% of residents and 100% of staff members after 15 months from the first dose of the vaccine. After a 4-year follow-up period, there were persistent and protective levels of anti-HBs in 80% of residents, compared with 66% in staff members. In addition, no clinical hepatitis B infections were observed during this period. PMID- 2526419 TI - Effect of timing of hepatitis B vaccine doses on response to vaccine in Yucpa Indians. AB - In a large hepatitis B prevention programme, hepatitis B vaccine was given in standard doses to greater than 1000 susceptible Yucpa Indians between 1983 and 1985. Thirteen months after the programme began, 373 vaccine recipients were tested using commercial radioimmunoassay to titre antibody response to the vaccine. Because of logistic difficulties, only 32% had received vaccine by the recommended schedule (second and third doses at one and six months after the first, respectively). The second and third doses were received early by 4 and 31%, respectively, and 27 and 16% received these doses later than intended. Overall response to vaccine was excellent: 98% of vaccinees developed anti-HBs greater than 10 mIU (geometric mean titre 688 mIU). Multivariate analysis showed that the response to vaccination was inversely related to the age of the vaccinee and directly related to the timing of the third vaccine dose. In particular, those receiving the third vaccine dose late (greater than 7 months after the first dose) developed antibody titres two-fold higher than those receiving the third dose on schedule (p less than 0.01). The response to vaccination was not significantly related to the timing of the second dose. A satisfactory response was obtained with various schedules of dose timing, including early second and third doses, late second and third doses and late second but normal third doses. These findings suggest that the response to hepatitis B vaccine is not highly dependent on timing of vaccine doses and that modest alterations in timing of doses, such as those necessary to integrate hepatitis B vaccine with other childhood vaccines, do not affect the excellent response to this vaccine. PMID- 2526420 TI - A nationwide vaccination programme in Italy against hepatitis B virus infection in infants of hepatitis B surface antigen-carrier mothers. AB - In order to prevent hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection of infants of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)-positive mothers, a nation-wide immunization programme was initiated in Italy in January 1984. During the first 3 years (1984-86), 651,667 out of 1726,000 pregnant women (37.8%) were screened for HBsAg; the percentage of mothers screened increased from 32% in 1984 to 51% in 1986 in 15 of the 21 Italian regions, where data by year were available. HBsAg was present in 15,640 mothers (2.4% of those screened); range by region 0.3-6.4%. All newborns of HBsAg-positive women, regardless of the mother's status of hepatitis Be antigen (HBeAg), were given a single dose (0.5 ml Kg-1) of a hepatitis B immune globulin within 24 h after birth and the first dose of plasma-derived hepatitis B vaccine within 7 days after birth. The immunization coverage rate was 80% in the 3-year period. Protective antibodies were found in greater than 97% of a sample of 1071 infants, immunized from different regions. No serious reactions were observed. On the basis of this field experience, it may be concluded that a nation-wide hepatitis B vaccination programme for infants of HBsAg-carrier mothers would be highly immunogenic and safe. Its implementation, however, requires continuous public education and cooperation from physicians. PMID- 2526421 TI - [Changes in the thresholds of the behavioral escape reaction in the administration of a beta-endorphin antiserum to rats]. PMID- 2526422 TI - Trehalose enzymes as models for signal transduction in Saccharomyces. PMID- 2526423 TI - [The concentration and duration of the action of metronidazole in the gingival pocket following local application]. AB - Periodontitis is a locally limited disease caused by bacteria. The local application presents itself useful for the indicated medicamentous therapy of periodontitis by means of metronidazole. In preliminary tests the metronidazole liberation from hollow fibres, in gel and from polyvinyl alcohol platelets has been tested by ultraviolet absorption measurement. The hollow fibres have been evaluated no more because of too small agent absorption in the clinical test. In polyvinyl alcohol metronidazole acts definitely over 3 days. However, the prolonged action in the gel form is not definitely (45 min to 24 h). A single one or repeated twice metronidazole/polyvinyl alcohol platelet application results in a sufficient long and high metronidazole concentration in the gingival pocket. PMID- 2526424 TI - [Periodontal disease prevalence (CPITN) in the adults of an F-optimized drinking water area]. AB - The prevalence of periodontal diseases has been determined by means of CPITN in 35- to 44-year-olds (N = 330) residing for more than 26 years in an F-optimized water area and compared with samples taken of people of the same age in 14 county towns of the German Democratic Republic (N = 1261) and also the Spremberg district (N = 1,116). A relation with the systemic availability of fluoride could neither be deduced from the frequency of calculus nor the prevalence of periodontitis. PMID- 2526425 TI - [Longitudinal study to demonstrate the effectiveness of prevention-oriented therapy with cast removable partial dentures]. AB - Proof of the preventive effectiveness of removable cast partial dentures is given in a prospective clinical longitudinal study over a 2-year period. 34 patients at middle age, treated with these therapy remedy, had been examined by applying a standardised method. In addition to the dental recall program, care for oral hygiene was ensured at regular intervals. Following the objectified findings related to the tooth surfaces, for the first time it must be emphasized that area differentiated high-risk areas exist requiring painstaking care on cleaning. All together, it has been ascertained that no essential deteriorations in the oral health conditions were found. The conclusions recommend the tried and tested removable partial dentures in respect of their structural conservation effect. PMID- 2526426 TI - [The corrosion behavior of antimony in a Ag-Sn-Cu-Sb amalgam]. AB - Specimen of amalgam containing antimony were stored in solutions with different pH and different content of rhodanide until 21 days. The most antimony were solved within 24 hours. After 7 days an increase of the antimony concentration were not observed in physiological pH. An inhibition of corrosion by rhodanide existed only after incubation from 21 days. The quantity of antimony (10-21 micrograms) were analysed by mean of atomic absorption spectroscopy. It represent not a risk for the health. The natural presence of this element in environment and in human body is discussed to the analysed quantity of solved antimony. PMID- 2526427 TI - [Sonographic studies in odontogenic maxillary sinus diseases]. AB - Clinical diagnostic information was analysed and compared with conventional x-ray and B-scan examination in 90 patients with maxillary sinus diseases of dental origin. In certain diseases (sinusitis, cysts) the ultrasonic sonography offered little additional clinical-relevant information. On the other hand this modern noninvasive, picture yielding and ever reproducible method is predestined for objective confirmation of the late complaint after maxillary sinus operation. But the high apparatus technical investment limits its application in large scale. PMID- 2526428 TI - [Transparent dentinal sclerosis and its clinical significance]. AB - Localisation, extension, age dependence and permeability of the translucent zones in different progression stages of the dentine caries were examined by light microscopy, histochemical methods and dye penetration on ground sections, thin ground sections and decalcified material of extracted human teeth. This phenomenon is observed in every age and more interpreted as a passive chemical precipitation than a protective activity of the pulp-dentine-system. As it is developed incompletely, it represents at most a relative, but not a proof protection from penetrating noxious actions. PMID- 2526429 TI - [10 years' experience of cryosurgery in the maxillofacial area]. AB - The author informs through statistical statements about the ten years use of cryosurgery in the maxillofacial region and discusses and analyses the cryotherapy of selected groups of affection. Affections of any superficial, but of minor depth-effect--for instance leukoplakias--may generally be treated cryosurgical with much success. Good results are obtainable also with soft neoplasms, as hemangiomas, where distinct functional and aesthetic advantages are emphasized. PMID- 2526430 TI - [10 years of dental care of hemophiliacs]. AB - Increased consciousness of oral hygiene, improvement of sanitation degree and decrease of the number tooth extractions have been proved a success and an expression of high compliance within the scope of long-term interdisciplinary care of haemophilic patients. At the same time both patients registration and concentration at an out-patient department facilitate cooperation with the paediatricians and internal specialists being in charge of them, in addition a change-over from children to adult dispensary care is ensured. Haemophilic patients suffering from hepatitis B or HTLV-III/HIV antibodies carrier may be registered immediately. All patients undergoing dispensary care are subject to preventive test obligations. PMID- 2526431 TI - [Experimental research on the repair potentials of fixed plastic-veneered dentures]. PMID- 2526433 TI - [Chronic loss of dental hard substance in early and middle adulthood]. AB - In a clinical study non-cariogenic chronic dental surface losses were registered in 300 patients, aged 16-35 yr. Nearly in all patients attrition could be stated especially in the anterior tooth area. Wedge-shaped defects occurred in 13% and erosions in 4% of the examined patients. Early recognition, dynamic observation, search for pathogenic moments as well as the preventive and curative early intervention with simple methods are recommended. PMID- 2526432 TI - [Escape of hydrogen peroxide and oxygen from the root canal]. AB - In vitro investigations demonstrate that hydrogen peroxide, like the oxygen emitted from the root canal, escapes into the area around the root. The amount measurable was dependent on the concentration, the amount of time that the hydrogen peroxide was left in the root canal and the patency of the foramen apicale. The growth of the Staphylococcus aureus (SG 511) was restricted in the area around those roots whose root canal contained a 5% solution of hydrogen peroxide. PMID- 2526435 TI - [The biorhythm of gingival temperature]. AB - In two studies with a total of 16 test persons, gingival temperature being a measure of blood flow was taken in the region of the front teeth, canines and molars in defined intervals. Gingival temperature has got--like other biological criteria--a circadian rhythmic that may be both of therapeutical and methodical value. PMID- 2526434 TI - [Experimental research on the genotoxicity of various root canal antiseptics in the SOS chromotest]. AB - The genotoxicity of the endodontic antiseptics chlorhexidine digluconate, chloramine and sodium hypochlorite was determined by SOS chromotest using Bioscreen Analyzer Systems (Labsystem OY). All antiseptics did not show a genotoxic effect. Chlorhexidine digluconate was the most efficient antimicrobial agent against E. coli PQ 37. PMID- 2526436 TI - [Effect of surface treatment and thermal stress on the adaptation of Germadent amalgam fillings]. AB - Surfaces of amalgam-fillings (Germadent) applied to extracted human teeth were treated in four variants. The adaptation of the fillings to the cavosurface margins was measured with SEM before and after thermal stress. Burnishing lead to a clear reduction of leakages, in contrast to carving. Fillings polished after carving, and especially after burnishing, have smallest marginal leakage. Thermal charges cause a small deterioration of marginal adaptation. PMID- 2526437 TI - [Comparative studies of the palatal mucosa under physiologic conditions and with removable dentures. I. Epithelial height and papillary bodies]. AB - Epithelium changes caused by wearing of tissue-borne prosthesis were established on the basis of tissue specimens, taken away from the palate of 22 corpses with own teeth and 18 edentulous corpses with removable prosthesis. The epithelium height of the denture supporting area was reduced especially in the lateral and ventral cuts. The papillary body was significantly reduced. PMID- 2526438 TI - [The sprue behavior of nonprecious metals]. AB - As a base for single crowns and bridge anchors the individual casted construction combined with the manufactured root post offers undisputed advantages. At casting silver-palladium alloys, the root posts possibly may change the characteristic properties of their material. The casting reactions of sipal with cylindrical pins made of pure titanium (EMO Ti110) and root posts with adhesion head made of implant steel (URX2CrNiMoN18.12(0] was investigated. Interstice-free castings of sipal to pin from implant steel and titanium can be demonstrated by means of pictures of metallographic (grinding) specimens investigated by light- and electron-beam microscopy. The casting quality is identified mainly by selection of the embedding mass, the rise of the preheating temperature and period of preheating. PMID- 2526439 TI - [How does the rate of participation in epidemiologic research affect oral health data?]. AB - The question to which extent an unintended selection is linked with incorrect estimations of oral disease indicators by the readiness of subjects to participate is looked into within the framework of an epidemiological study. 896 primarily cooperative subjects and 70 originally noncooperative subjects aged from 25 to 64 years were examined. According to statistics, non-cooperative subjects were found to have more caries-infected teeth and less teeth filled. Generally, a smaller degree of dental care could be detected in these subjects, which should cause a critical discussion of the hitherto published parameters of oral diseases. PMID- 2526440 TI - [Histology of 2 cemental tear fractures. A case report]. AB - A histological study of the periodontium of a 68-year-old female subject demonstrates two fractures of the cement. The fracture more apically shows no inflammatory signs. The other one lies near the gingiva. Here we found signs of a chronic inflammation. Our observations confirm a great activity of the periodontal turnover in higher age groups too. PMID- 2526442 TI - [Normal and pathologic development of the secondary palate--a new concept]. AB - Wether the secondary palate develops in the normal or pathological manner is determined by the following processes: Within the contact-epithelium of each palate process there is a still invisible differentiation boundary between the potential oral and nasal epithelium. It extends from rostral to pharyngeal. A genetically determined and timed regular separation of nasal and oral epithelium and an initial epithelial shift along these differentiation boundaries allow the well-timed "primary" fusion of mesenchyme. A great oral part of the contact epithelium in the thick primordia of the human hard palate is removed by fragmentation (and formation of epithelial pearls). This leads additionally to the retarded "secondary" mesenchymal fusion. Depending on the absence or only the retardation of the epithelium separation and shift the results are the open and the covered clefts. All normal and pathological developments can occur along the differentiation boundary in total extension or only partially. PMID- 2526441 TI - [Teratogen-modified palatogenesis in the Uje: WIST rat. 4. Scanning electron microscopic morphology of the epithelium during the formation of the secondary palate]. AB - In normal morphogenesis age-dependent and regional differences in the surface structure of epithelial cells appear, whereas in teratogenesis no qualitative changes can be observed. During the horizontal adjustment of the palatal shelves the pronounced marking of the cellular borders with microvilli has disappeared. The reduced number of microvilli in the subsequent phase of adhesion might affect the cell-cell identification and thus disturb the further cell differentiation. PMID- 2526443 TI - [Chemical analysis of eluates of the cordierite glass ceramic Lusadent]. PMID- 2526444 TI - [Hepatitis B screening in pregnant patients and their children. A Greifswald perinatology-pediatric study. II. Pediatric findings]. AB - Hepatitis B virus carriers were identified by a systematic screening of women during the last trimester of pregnancy. With 0.5% the HBV carrier incidence was found to be constant over years. 25 children of HBsAg positive women were followed after 2-4 years in order to define the risk of vertical transmission. One infant died due to the sequelae of a congenital malformation. In 12 of the remaining infants HBV markers were found after different intervals, in 10 of them also clinical and paraclinical symptoms of HBV infection could be diagnosed. The results are discussed in relation to the maternal serologic status and with regard to different preventive measures. Summarizing our results the following recommendations can be given: A mass screening for HBV during pregnancy is the only safe method of diagnosing HBsAg positive carriers. All newborns of HBsAg positive pregnants should be vaccinated immediately after birth, both actively and passively. PMID- 2526445 TI - Dehydroepiandrosterone and epitestosterone in the blood of cows at term. AB - From Day 268 of gestation till two days after parturition blood samples were collected from the jugular vein of 5 cows with normal and 4 cows with flumethasone induced parturition and centrifuged immediately after sampling. In another experiment blood samples were taken from the jugular and uterine vein of 3 cows during the last week before normal parturition. The dehydroepiandrosterone (DHA) and epitestosterone (ET) concentrations in plasma were measured using radioimmunoassay. In the control group the DHA concentration was in the range of 2 to 5 nmol/l, ET levels varied from 4 to 8 nmol/l before term. In both groups, there was an increase in DHA concentrations during the last periparturient period whereas ET levels increased only after flumethasone induced parturition. The concentrations of both androgens declined after the expulsion of the placenta and they were higher in the uterine vein than in the jugular vein. It is concluded, that both androgens are secreted by the bovine placenta and that the delta 5 pathway of steroidogenesis is active in vivo. PMID- 2526446 TI - [Periosteal vacuum-stimulation as a method of acupuncture in the treatment of lumbosacral pain syndromes]. AB - A new technique is offered to treat the vertebrogenic lumboischialgies and lumbosacral radicular syndromes with periosteal vacuum application through tubular needles to the diseased vertebrae and sclerotomic zones. In a majority of 134 patients that underwent the combined therapy involving this technique improvement or substantial improvement was attained and documented with parametric tests (Lasseg symptom, the volume of vertebral motility, pain thresholds). The technique allowed a shortened average hospital stay of the patients and the duration of their sick leave. Some considerations are presented as to the possible mechanisms of therapeutic effect of the inttrvention. PMID- 2526447 TI - [Chronic backache and radiobiometry]. PMID- 2526448 TI - [Recanalization of a short occlusion of the popliteal artery using the Simpson atherectomy catheter]. AB - A short occlusion of the popliteal artery is first mechanically recanalized, the occluding material is then removed using the Simpson-atherectomy-catheter. PMID- 2526449 TI - Selective thromboxane A2 receptor blockade in experimental exercise-induced myocardial ischaemia in dogs. AB - Thromboxane A2 receptor stimulation induces blood platelet aggregation and vasoconstriction, both potential causes of impaired perfusion of ischaemic myocardium. To study the potential role of thromboxane A2 receptor blockade in exercise-induced myocardial ischaemia and post-exercise myocardial dysfunction, nine conscious chronically instrumented dogs with single-vessel coronary artery stenosis (ameroid constrictor) were studied before, during and after steady-state treadmill runs which induced regional myocardial ischaemia. Three hours after a control run, the dogs were exercised again after the infusion of a selective thromboxane A2 receptor blocker: BM 13.177 (10 mg kg-1 i.v.). In the control run, systolic wall thickening (WTh, sonomicrometer) in the post-stenotic myocardium decreased from 22.1 +/- 9.1% at rest to 8.8 +/- 5.2% (mean +/- SD). Subendocardial blood flow (microspheres) in the ischaemic area decreased from 0.75 +/- 0.25 to 0.45 +/- 0.27 (ml min-1 g). The WTh in the ischaemic region remained depressed at 20 min after the run. BM 13.177 reduced peak left ventricular (+) dP/dt (micromanometer) and WTh in both control and post-stenotic myocardium at rest, during and after the run. WTh in the ischaemic area was reduced to approximately the same levels during running with BM 13.177 (not significantly different from control exercise) and remained depressed for at least 30 min after the run. Regional myocardial blood flow was not affected by BM 13.177. Thus, selective thromboxane A2 receptor blockade with BM 13.177 had a modest negative inotropic effect and did not improve regional function or blood flow in post-stenotic ischaemic subendocardium. PMID- 2526450 TI - Effects of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) on jejunal net fluid absorption in the rat. AB - The role of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) on jejunal net fluid transport was studied in intact rats as well as in rats subjected to a perivascular denervation of the intestinal segment. In rats with intact nerves, an acute volume expansion with 5% albumin (10% of estimated blood volume) decreased jejunal net fluid absorption by approximately 70% compared to control animals not subjected to volume expansion. After a perivascular denervation of the intestinal segment, the acute volume expansion reversed net fluid absorption into a net fluid secretion. In order to reduce the volume expansion-induced endogenous release of ANP, one group of rats was subjected to a right atrial appendectomy 7 days prior to the experiments. In these animals, the intestinal response to the same 10% volume load was blunted compared to controls. Administration of rat alpha-ANP (99-126; 5 micrograms kg-1 i.v.) induced effects similar to those of volume expansion both in rats with intact perivascular nerves as well as in denervated animals. Volume expansion increased mean arterial pressure (MAP) as well as central venous pressure and decreased heart rate (HR) in all groups. When exogenous ANP was administered, a fall in MAP was seen, while HR remained unchanged. In conclusion, these data strongly indicate a physiological role for ANP in jejunal fluid transfer in response to acute volume expansion. PMID- 2526451 TI - Taipei Conference on Prostaglandin and Leukotriene Research. Taipei, Taiwan, April 22-24, 1988. Proceedings. PMID- 2526452 TI - Metabolism of peptide leukotrienes in the rat. PMID- 2526453 TI - Chemical mediators and the anti-thrombotic properties of endothelial cells. PMID- 2526454 TI - On the generation of lipoxins and novel related compounds by human neutrophils: relationship to leukotriene production. PMID- 2526455 TI - Pharmacological activities of lipoxins and related compounds. PMID- 2526456 TI - Formation of lipoxins by rat basophilic leukemia cells. PMID- 2526458 TI - The formation of lipoxins and 6,7-dihydrolipoxins by 5-lipoxygenase and reductase partially purified from potato tubers. PMID- 2526457 TI - Mechanism of formation of leukotrienes and lipoxins from arachidonic acid catalyzed by homogenous lipoxygenase from potato tubers. PMID- 2526459 TI - Brain hepoxilins: formation and action. PMID- 2526460 TI - Reduced 12-lipoxygenase activity in platelets of patients with myeloproliferative disorders. PMID- 2526461 TI - On the origin of 12-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid in psoriatic scale. PMID- 2526462 TI - Arachidonate 15-lipoxygenase from human leukocytes: purification and structural homology to other mammalian lipoxygenases. PMID- 2526463 TI - Transformation of 15-hydroperoxyeicosatetraenoic acid to 15-keto-pentadeca 5,8,11,13-tetraenoic acid by hydroperoxide lyase in rabbit leukocytes. PMID- 2526464 TI - Leukocytes biosynthesize leukotoxin (9,10-epoxy-12-octadecenoate)--a novel cytotoxic linoleate epoxide. PMID- 2526465 TI - Photoaffinity labelling and isoelectric focusing of the human platelet thromboxane A2/prostaglandin H2 (TXA2/PGH2) receptor. PMID- 2526466 TI - Further studies with 5E and 5Z analogues of PGI2 in platelets and vasculature. PMID- 2526467 TI - The role of thromboxane A2 in experimental and human models of chronic glomerular damage. PMID- 2526468 TI - Prostacyclin synthesis is increased during propranolol therapy for essential hypertension. PMID- 2526469 TI - Role of TXA2 in the pathogenesis of severe angiotensin II-salt hypertension. AB - Urinary TXB2 excretion and the release of TXB2 from vascular and renal cortical tissues are increased in rats with severe AII-salt hypertension. Treatment with an inhibitor of TXA2 synthesis did not change the blood pressure of normotensive or of AII-salt hypertensive rats. Treatment with SQ29,548, a TXA2 receptor antagonist, caused reduction of blood pressure and renal vascular resistance in AII-salt hypertensive but not in normotensive rats. We conclude that the SQ29,548 induced lowering of blood pressure and renal vascular resistance in AII-salt hypertensive rats is the result of blockade of the vascular actions of one or more pressor eicosanoids including TXA2 and the prostaglandin endoperoxides. A corollary of this conclusion is that pressor eicosanoids may be contributory factors in the pathogenesis of severe AII-salt hypertension in rats. PMID- 2526470 TI - The cell biology and biochemistry of leukotriene C4 biosynthesis. PMID- 2526471 TI - Role of eicosanoids in regulation of vascular resistance. PMID- 2526472 TI - The roles of renal prostaglandin in the regulatory mechanism of renal excretory function and blood pressure in hypertension. PMID- 2526473 TI - Effects of estradiol on prostaglandin E2 biosynthesis and prostaglandin metabolic enzyme activity in rat kidneys. PMID- 2526474 TI - Intracellular mechanisms of the effect of thromboxane A2 on water transport. PMID- 2526475 TI - Stimulation of de novo synthesis of prostaglandin G/H synthase in endothelial cells. PMID- 2526476 TI - Endotoxin stimulates the production of prostacyclin by cultured human endothelial cells. PMID- 2526477 TI - A kallikrein induced new peptide stimulating prostacyclin production by vascular endothelial cells. PMID- 2526478 TI - Low density lipoprotein-mediated endothelial cell perturbation: effects on endothelial cell eicosanoid metabolism. PMID- 2526480 TI - Platelets and endothelial cells contribute to the production of LTC4 by transcellular metabolism with neutrophils. PMID- 2526479 TI - Regulation of polymorphonuclear leukocyte leukotriene synthesis by endothelial cell cyclooxygenase products. PMID- 2526481 TI - Prostaglandin D2 and sleep. PMID- 2526482 TI - Interactions between platelets and neutrophils in the eicosanoid pathway. PMID- 2526483 TI - Endogenous nitric oxide and the vascular endothelium. PMID- 2526484 TI - Differential effects of 17 alpha and 17 beta estradiol on PGF2 alpha mediated contraction of the porcine coronary artery. PMID- 2526485 TI - Involvement of prostaglandins in arteriolar vasodilation to peroxides. PMID- 2526486 TI - Vasospasm and injuries of cerebral arteries induced by activation of platelets in vivo: it may be due to thromboxane A2. PMID- 2526487 TI - Vessel wall reactivity and 13-hydroxy-octadecadienoic acid synthesis. PMID- 2526488 TI - Isolation and identification of human plasma factor which stimulates prostaglandin I2 production and its changes in patients with acute myocardial infarction. PMID- 2526489 TI - Evidence for 20 mg aspirin (ASA) as being optimal. PMID- 2526490 TI - Leukotrienes and the microvascular permeability of acute lung injury. PMID- 2526491 TI - Role of thromboxane A2 in myocardial ischemia and circulatory shock. PMID- 2526492 TI - Synthetic stable orally and transdermally long-acting prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) congener (viprostol; CL 115,347) and prostacyclin congener (CL 115,999) as antihypertensive agents. PMID- 2526494 TI - Characteristics of the hepatic cytochrome P-450 catalyzing omega hydroxylation of prostaglandins. PMID- 2526493 TI - Pulmonary P-450-mediated eicosanoid metabolism and regulation in the pregnant rabbit. PMID- 2526495 TI - Cytochrome P450-dependent arachidonate metabolites: biological activities. PMID- 2526496 TI - Prostaglandin omega-hydroxylase and related cytochrome P-450. PMID- 2526497 TI - Characterization of human liver and kidney cytochrome P-450-dependent arachidonic acid epoxygenase. PMID- 2526498 TI - PAF-acether (platelet-activating factor). PMID- 2526499 TI - Tumor necrosis factor-induced bowel necrosis: the role of platelet-activating factor. PMID- 2526500 TI - Effect of chronic administration of platelet-activating factor (PAF) in the guinea-pig and the rat. PMID- 2526501 TI - Platelet-activating factor in organ transplant rejection. PMID- 2526502 TI - Prostaglandin E2 in the pathogenesis of pyrogen fever: validation of an intermediary role. PMID- 2526504 TI - Biosynthesis of cysteinyl-leukotrienes by human brain tissue in vitro. PMID- 2526503 TI - Positron emission tomography studies using [11C]ester of prostaglandin D2. PMID- 2526505 TI - Ras oncogenes and phospholipase C. PMID- 2526506 TI - Cyclopentenone prostaglandins block cell cycle progression in the G1 phase and induce the G1-specific proteins in HeLa S3 cells. PMID- 2526507 TI - Prostaglandin A and J: antitumor and antiviral prostaglandins. AB - Prostaglandin(PG)s of the A and J series are categorized as antitumor, antiviral PGs. They have a reactive alpha, beta-unsaturated carbonyl in the cyclopentenone ring, which could be the active moiety. They are actively incorporated into cells and in part transferred to the nuclei, and lead to cell cycle arrest at G1 or cell death depending on the dose. PMID- 2526508 TI - Effects of prostaglandin E2 on phenotype of osteoblasts-like cells. PMID- 2526510 TI - Role of prostaglandins in differentiation of growth plate chondrocytes. PMID- 2526509 TI - Complementary DNA clone for sheep seminal vesicle prostaglandin endoperoxide synthase (cyclooxygenase). PMID- 2526511 TI - Cyclo-oxygenase inhibitors and cell killing by cytotoxic drugs. PMID- 2526512 TI - Appearance of metabolic activities for arachidonate during development of mouse embryos. PMID- 2526513 TI - The action of parathyroid hormone on bone metabolism may be regulated by endogenously synthesized prostaglandin E2. PMID- 2526514 TI - Lipoxygenase regulation of membrane expression of tumor cell glycoproteins and subsequent metastasis. PMID- 2526515 TI - Regulation of cyclooxygenase synthesis by EGF and corticosteroids. PMID- 2526516 TI - Molecular cloning of prostaglandin G/H synthase. PMID- 2526518 TI - Cloning, nucleotide sequence and gene expression of bovine lung prostaglandin F synthetase. PMID- 2526519 TI - Molecular cloning and amino acid sequence of human 5-lipoxygenase. PMID- 2526517 TI - Localization of the peroxidase active site of PGH synthase. PMID- 2526520 TI - Characterization of the human 5-lipoxygenase gene. PMID- 2526521 TI - Cloning and expression of human leukocyte 5-lipoxygenase. AB - In conclusion, we have cloned a full-length cDNA for human leukocyte 5-LO from differentiating HL-60 cells. The complete amino acid sequence of 5-LO has been determined from the nucleotide sequence of the cDNA. Some interesting features of the sequence include potential lipid and Ca2+ binding sites and sequence homologies with other lipoxygenases. Human osteosarcoma cells transfected with the 5-LO cDNA expressed 5-LO and LTA4 synthase activities that were indistinguishable from those of the human leukocyte enzyme confirming that the cloned cDNA was the correct gene. PMID- 2526522 TI - Molecular cloning and expression of human leukotriene A4 hydrolase cDNA. AB - We have isolated a near full-length cDNA encoding human leukotriene A4 (LTA4) hydrolase from a human spleen cDNA library. The mature form of the enzyme consists of 610 amino acid residues and its molecular weight is calculated to be 69,153. The cDNA was inserted into an expression vector (pUC 9) and expressed in Escherichia coli. The fusion protein (EX85) possessed the LTA4 hydrolase activity with kinetic properties similar to the native enzyme. PMID- 2526523 TI - Leukotriene A4-hydrolase, cloning of the human enzyme and tissue distribution in the rat. PMID- 2526524 TI - Leukotrienes and human airways. PMID- 2526525 TI - The structure and function of multispecies of protein kinase C. PMID- 2526526 TI - Regulated generation of leukotrienes in mononuclear cells. PMID- 2526528 TI - Involvement of leukotrienes in immediate hypersensitivity reactions in the rat. PMID- 2526527 TI - Transformation of prostaglandin D2 to isomeric prostaglandin F2 compounds by human eosinophils: a potential mast cell-eosinophil interaction. PMID- 2526529 TI - Studies of synergism between inhibitors of the 5-lipoxygenase pathway. PMID- 2526530 TI - Glucocorticoid inhibition of Ca2+ and phospholipid-dependent enzymes regulating leukotriene C4 formation and action in allergic and inflammatory responses. PMID- 2526531 TI - Effect of an oral thromboxane synthetase inhibitor (OKY-046) on antigen-induced bronchoconstriction in guinea pigs. PMID- 2526532 TI - Determination of the effects of inhibition of pulmonary thromboxane A2 synthase activity, in vivo and in vitro. PMID- 2526534 TI - Dual action of prostaglandin E2 in allergic inflammation. AB - The findings reported here demonstrate that PGE2 can exert both anti- and pro inflammatory activities in one and the same tissue, as exemplified by inhibition of mediator release and enhancement of mediator action. Furthermore, the complete reversal of indomethacin potentiation of allergic inflammation by addition of PGE2 in low concentration advocates a regulatory function of the endogenous and locally formed PGE2. In the present in vivo model for mast cell-dependent inflammation the influence of PGE2 was mainly on the release of mediators. However, factors such as the degree of local blood flow, or the state of the tissue and the site of prostaglandin production, may in other instances shift the Yin-Yang balance in favour of PGE2 action at the target level for released mediators. Finally, it was noted that the cheek pouch mast cells, in addition to their pivotal role in the initiation of inflammatory reactions, have a predominant periarteriolar distribution that promotes oriented and, in terms of covered area, efficient migration of recruited leukocytes. Whether this previously unrecognized organization is specific for the hamster cheek pouch or exemplifies a more general phenomenon is presently not known. PMID- 2526533 TI - Inhibition of thromboxane responses in the airway of the cat by SQ29,548 and OKY 1581. PMID- 2526535 TI - On the mechanism of aspirin asthma. PMID- 2526536 TI - Enhanced production of LTC4 in leukocytes from allergic asthmatic subjects. PMID- 2526537 TI - Role of GTP-binding proteins in phospholipase C activation in human platelet membranes. PMID- 2526538 TI - Relationship of inositol phospholipid metabolism to phospholipase A2. AB - The mechanism by which agonists stimulate phospholipase A2 of platelets is still much of a mystery. We have presented a discussion that suggests that neither Ca2+, protein kinase C or dissociation of the inhibitory GTP-binding protein Gi is solely responsible for activating this enzyme. We cannot exclude the possibility that there may be some contribution of each pathway for some agonists, and that the contribution may change with agonist concentration or potency. These possibilities await further clarification. PMID- 2526539 TI - Aspirin in the prevention of catastrophes of the coronary circulation. PMID- 2526541 TI - Substrate-specific forms of phospholipase A2 in human platelets. PMID- 2526540 TI - Regulation of arachidonate release by G-proteins and protein kinase C in human platelets. PMID- 2526542 TI - Inhibition of phospholipase C dependent processes by U-73, 122. PMID- 2526543 TI - Proinflammatory effects of phospholipase A2 (PLA2) in several in vitro and in vivo systems. PMID- 2526544 TI - Phospholipase A2 (PLA2) release leukotrienes and other lipoxygenase products from endogenous sources. PMID- 2526545 TI - Differences in n-3 and n-6 eicosanoid precursors. PMID- 2526546 TI - Modulation of mediator precursors by changes in essential fatty acid composition. PMID- 2526548 TI - The physiology and regulation of the intestinal absorption and transport of omega 3 and omega-6 fatty acids. PMID- 2526547 TI - Fatty acid and phospholipid species composition of rat tissues after a fish oil diet. PMID- 2526549 TI - Natural and unnatural prostaglandins via the three-component coupling synthesis. PMID- 2526550 TI - Chemical syntheses of trioxilins. PMID- 2526551 TI - Biosynthesis and conversions of fatty acid allene oxides. PMID- 2526553 TI - Quinone derivatives: synthesis and structure-activity relations of a novel class of eicosanoid antagonists, AA-2414 and its analogs. PMID- 2526552 TI - Leukotriene D4 (LTD4) antagonists: structure activity relationships of stable phenylsubstituted leukotriene analogs. PMID- 2526555 TI - Synthesis and in vitro effects on platelets and vascular smooth muscle of S-145, a novel thromboxane receptor antagonist. PMID- 2526554 TI - Stable 9 beta- or 11 alpha-halogen-15-cyclohexyl-prostaglandins with high affinity to the PGD2-receptor. PMID- 2526556 TI - Developments of TXA2 antagonists. PMID- 2526557 TI - Stereochemistry-activity studies in 6-keto-prostaglandin-E1 (6-keto-PGE1) analogs. PMID- 2526558 TI - Synthesis of 15-cis-(4-n-propylcyclohexyl)-16,17,18,19,20-pentanor-9-de oxy-6,9 alpha-nitriloprostaglandin F1 methyl ester (OP-2507), a novel anti-cerebral ischemic agent. PMID- 2526559 TI - RS-5186, a novel, long-acting thromboxane synthetase inhibitor. PMID- 2526560 TI - Enzyme immunoassay of thromboxane B2 using immobilized hapten and enzyme amplification. PMID- 2526561 TI - Radioimmunoassay of 11-dehydro-thromboxane B2 using monoclonal antibody. PMID- 2526563 TI - Determination of HETEs by HPLC and electrochemical detection. PMID- 2526562 TI - Derivatization of prostaglandins to corresponding anilides and analysis by HPLC. PMID- 2526564 TI - Allene oxides as intermediates in biosynthesis of ketols and cyclopentenones. PMID- 2526565 TI - Versatile arachidonate 5-lipoxygenase purified from porcine leukocytes--5S oxygenase, leukotriene A synthase and 6R-oxygenase activities. PMID- 2526566 TI - Unusual role of calcium in the stimulation of the 5-lipoxygenase in PT-18 cells. PMID- 2526567 TI - Enzyme immunoassays for cyclooxygenase and 12-lipoxygenase of human platelets. PMID- 2526569 TI - Partial purification and characterization of leukotriene C4 synthase from guinea pig lung. PMID- 2526568 TI - Characterization of CGS 8515 as a selective 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO) inhibitor. AB - 1. CGS 8515 selectively inhibited 5-LO (IC50 = 0.1 microM) with negligible effect on CO, 12-LO, 15-LO and TxS at concentrations up to 100 microM. 2. CGS 8515 selectively inhibited A23187-induced formation of 5-LO products in rat and human whole blood with a 20-70 fold separation of effects over the formation of CO products. 3. Ex vivo and in vivo studies with rats showed that CGS 8515, at an oral dose of 2-50 mg/kg, significantly inhibited A23187-induced formation of LTs in whole blood and in the lung. The effect persisted for at least 6 h in the ex vivo blood model. 4. CGS 8515, at oral doses as low as 5 mg/kg, significantly suppressed exudate volume and leukocyte migration in the carrageenan-induced pleurisy and sponge models in the rat. PMID- 2526571 TI - [Research in similarities between EEP34 and lipocortin]. AB - EDTA-extractable protein (EEP) is a major extrinsic protein of lens fiber membrane. The EEP of calf lens separated three major bands by SDS-PAGE, and the molecular weights of these major bands were 34 kilodalton (kd.), 33 kd. and 32 kd. Combination of EEP with F-actin and some kinds of phospholipid containing liposomes depends on Ca2+. In two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, some spots of the calf-EEP partially overlapped with spots of lipocortin, which is a substrate for epidermal growth factor receptor/kinase and an inhibitor of phospholipase A2. The 34 kd. protein of the EEP cross-reacted to the antibody prepared against lipocortin of pig's aorta: These results suggest the important function of EEP in lens. PMID- 2526570 TI - Properties of leukotriene A4-hydrolase from guinea pig liver. PMID- 2526572 TI - Monocyte functions in patients with mixed connective tissue disease. AB - The authors investigated the number and functions of peripheral blood monocytes in patients with mixed connective tissue disease. Moderate monocytopenia was detected in the active stage of the disease. There was a close correlation between the sensitized sheep red blood cell binding capacity of monocytes and the elevated levels of circulating immune complexes. The yeast phagocytosis of monocytes and the chemotactic activity were normal in patients with mixed connective tissue disease. C3b receptor mediated phagocytosis of monocytes decreased in the active and inactive stages of the disease. This study suggests that the decreased function of C3b receptors of monocytes is related to the pathogenesis of this disease. PMID- 2526574 TI - Long-term follow-up of patients treated with coronary angioplasty for acute myocardial infarction. AB - Long-term follow-up data for patients treated with coronary angioplasty (PTCA) for acute myocardial infarction are limited. Therefore the long-term outcome of 336 consecutive patients treated with PTCA at a median of 4.5 hours (range 0.5 to 48 hours) from symptom onset was evaluated. The in-hospital mortality was 11.1% (37 patients). Follow-up is complete for 293 of 299 (98%) hospital survivors at a median of 24 months. Of patients discharged, the mean age was 55 +/- 11 years, 49% received intravenous thrombolytic therapy, 53% had multivessel coronary artery disease, and the mean ejection fraction was 48 +/- 10%. Post-discharge survival was 96.1% at 1 year and 93.6% at 2 years by life table analysis. Post discharge survival was independently predicted by no prior myocardial infarction (96.9% versus 87.3% 2-year survival, p less than 0.001 by log rank analysis) and infarct artery patency at hospital discharge (which had its major impact on survival early after hospital discharge: [97.4% versus 93.4% 1-year survival but 94.2% versus 93.4% 2-year survival; overall p = 0.02]). For patients with analyzable ventriculograms at hospital discharge, ejection fraction greater than or equal to 40% was also a significant independent predictor of survival (98.1% versus 85.8% 2-year survival, p = 0.01). For patients with a successful PTCA, time from symptom onset to catheterization and angioplasty less than or equal to 4 hours versus greater than 4 hours was also an independent predictor of outcome (97.1% versus 91.4% 2-year survival; p = 0.04).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526573 TI - Favorable early and long-term prognosis following coronary bypass surgery therapy for myocardial infarction: results of a multicenter trial. TAMI Study Group. AB - Coronary bypass surgery was performed before hospital discharge on 82 (21%) of 386 consecutive patients enrolled in the Thrombolysis and Angioplasty in Myocardial Infarction (TAMI) multicenter trial of intravenous tissue plasminogen activator and coronary angioplasty for acute myocardial infarction. Time from infarct symptom onset to coronary bypass surgery was 7.3 +/- 1.9 hours for 24 patients operated upon on an emergency basis and 9.3 +/- 5.2 days for 58 patients having late in-hospital surgery. There were no operative deaths and five in hospital deaths in the surgical group, all of which occurred in patients with preoperative cardiogenic shock. Although patients in the surgical group were older (59.7 +/- 10.4 years versus 54.9 +/- 10.2 years; p = 0.03), had more extensive coronary artery disease (42% three-vessel disease versus 11%; p = 0.001), and had a higher incidence of anterior wall myocardial infarction (48% versus 39%; p = 0.02), in-hospital mortality for the surgical group (6%) was similar to that in 301 patients not undergoing surgery (7%) in this trial. For patients discharged from the hospital, mortality at 1 year was 2.5% in the surgical group and 1.8% in patients not having coronary bypass surgery before hospital discharge. At a 1 year follow-up, there were no significant differences in the frequency of cardiac or noncardiac-related hospitalizations or in event free survival between surgical and nonsurgical groups. The majority of patients in both groups considered themselves to be in excellent or good condition. Coronary bypass surgery can be performed with low morbidity and mortality rates in close temporal association to acute myocardial infarction.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526575 TI - Patient selection for percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty in acute myocardial infarction. AB - Whether thrombolytic therapy or immediate angioplasty should be the preferred treatment for patients with acute myocardial infarction has not yet been decided. Emergency angioplasty can be used as primary therapy, as an adjunct to thrombolytic therapy, or as a salvage procedure in patients in whom thrombolysis fails. Immediate angioplasty produces a higher recanalization rate, yet reclosure is more likely with this procedure. In many cases, patient selection for acute angioplasty remains controversial. Randomized trials comparing the results of thrombolysis with those of angioplasty are needed before definitive decisions can be made. PMID- 2526576 TI - Correlation between niacin equivalent intake and urinary excretion of its metabolites, N'-methylnicotinamide, N'-methyl-2-pyridone-5-carboxamide, and N' methyl-4-pyridone-3-carboxamide, in humans consuming a self-selected food. AB - N'-methyl-4-pyridone-3-carboxamide (4-py) is the major metabolite of nicotinamide and nicotinic acid in rats. However, because it is complicated to determine 4-py in humans, there is only one report on its excretion. Recently we developed a method for the microdetermination of 4-py by high-performance liquid chromatography. Urinary excretion of 4-py in Japanese students from Teikoku Women's University who consumed self-selected foods was 7.12 +/- 3.25 mumol/d, which is about one-fourth of N'-methylnicotinamide (MNA) and about one-ninth of N'-methyl-2-pyridone-5-carboxamide (2-py) excretion. The correlation coefficient between daily niacin equivalent (NE) intake and daily 4-py excretion was 0.529, which was about the same as the correlation coefficient between daily NE intake and daily 2-py excretion and which was two times higher than the correlation coefficient between daily NE intake and daily MNA excretion. PMID- 2526577 TI - Nutritional evaluation of Huntington disease patients. AB - A nutritional survey and evaluation was made in Huntington disease patients by the 24-h-recall method. Control subjects and choreic patients consumed a diet that supplied all the essential amino acids. The diet was hypocaloric, rich in animal protein, and low in fat and carbohydrates. The ratio of calcium to phosphorus in the groups studied was less than 1. High vitamin A and low vitamin C and niacin intakes were observed in Huntington disease patients. Only 17% of control subjects showed weight deficiency; 55% of the patients at stages III and IV of the disease were malnourished despite receiving the same food intake as controls. Although iron intake was deficient in all groups studied, it was enough to maintain normal serum levels of this metal. The deficiencies found in some nutrients do not explain the clinical manifestations observed in Huntington disease patients. PMID- 2526578 TI - Bond strength comparison: a simplified indirect technique versus direct placement of brackets. AB - Two methods for orthodontic bonding were used to attach brackets to 48 incisor and 48 premolar extracted human teeth. Half of the sample teeth were bonded by means of a highly filled bis-GMA adhesive by a direct placement method. The remaining teeth were bonded with the same adhesive by an indirect method suggested by Thomas. Actual chairside bonding procedures were simulated with regard to the timing and manipulation of adhesives and attachments. Tensile and shear bond strengths are reported for each of the two methods of bracket attachment. PMID- 2526579 TI - Viral hepatitis in the US Navy, 1975-1984. AB - The epidemiology of viral hepatitis in US Navy enlisted personnel was reviewed for the years 1975-1984. Hospital discharge summaries of all active duty enlisted personnel admitted to a US Navy treatment facility were used for the study. From 1975 to 1984, total first hospitalizations for viral hepatitis declined from 128 per 100,000 personnel (95% confidence interval (Cl) 118-139) to 56 per 100,000 personnel (95% Cl 50-63). The highest incidence of acute viral hepatitis (115 per 100,000 personnel) was found in the youngest age groups aged 24 years and less. Risk factors for acute hepatitis included a previous hospitalization with either drug abuse (relative risk = 363) or a sexually transmitted disease (relative risk = 25) listed among the discharge diagnoses. Having a medical job classification was also associated with an increased risk of acute hepatitis. The steep decline in the incidence of viral hepatitis during this 10-year period may have been due to decreasing drug abuse in the US Navy. Immunization of high-risk groups in the US Navy with hepatitis B vaccine could be an effective policy for the prevention of acute viral hepatitis. PMID- 2526580 TI - Return to work following back surgery: a review. AB - Nineteen articles published between 1980 and 1986 were reviewed to determine the prognosis for returning to previous employment following back surgery. Seventy seven percent of the cases reviewed returned to their previous level of employment. Nearly 11% of cases had additional back surgery during the period of follow-up. Data from three articles suggest that 82% of patients are able to return to their previous level of employment following primary back surgery compared to 59% of patients who have had multiple back surgeries. Recommendations for work activity following back surgery should be individualized for each patient. A work-hardening program including assessment of cardiovascular fitness and task performance can be used to progressively increase activity to the highest achievable level. Prevention of back injuries in the workplace will increase employee morale and reduce employee turnover and workers' compensation costs. PMID- 2526581 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide attenuates the reflex sympathetic responses to lower body negative pressure. AB - The authors studied the effect of intravenous infusion of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) on the plasma catecholamine and forearm vasoconstrictor responses to cardiopulmonary baroreflex deactivation in six normal, male volunteers in order to determine whether ANP influences reflex forearm vasoconstriction in humans. Unloading of low-pressure cardiopulmonary baroreceptors (CPBR) was accomplished by application of low levels (-10 and -20 mm Hg) of lower body negative pressure (LBNP). The authors measured the plasma norepinephrine (NE) and epinephrine, the mean arterial pressure (MAP), and the forearm vascular resistance (FVR) responses to reflex sympathetic activation by LBNP. ANP infusion (0.1 microgram.kg-1.min-1) decreased (p less than 0.01) basal MAP, as well as plasma renin activity and plasma aldosterone levels (p less than 0.05). ANP infusion also reduced (p less than 0.01) plasma NE responses to both levels of LBNP and tended to decrease both epinephrine and FVR during ANP infusion at -20 mm Hg LBNP (p = 0.8). These data suggest that exogenous ANP inhibits the reflex sympathetic responses that occur with CPBR unloading. The blunted plasma NE responses to CPBR unloading parallel the attenuation of FVR response to LBNP during ANP infusion, despite significant LBNP-induced hypotension. PMID- 2526582 TI - Metastatic carcinoma of unknown primary: complete response to second-line treatment with plicamycin. AB - In selected groups of patients, metastatic carcinoma of unknown primary (MCUP) is highly responsive to cisplatin-based combination chemotherapy. These therapeutic responses usually are partial and shortlived. The authors report the case of a 41 year-old man whose MCUP relapsed after responding to cisplatin, bleomycin, and etoposide. Alternate-day treatment with plicamycin induced a second complete remission (CR) in this patient with minimal hematologic and metabolic toxicity. Plicamycin may prove effective in enhancing CR rate, prolonging CR duration, and salvaging cisplatin failures in MCUP. PMID- 2526583 TI - The pathogenesis of aneuploid phenotypes: the fallacy of explanatory reductionism. PMID- 2526584 TI - First-trimester and early second-trimester diagnosis of nuchal cystic hygroma by transvaginal sonography: diverse prognosis of the septated from the nonseptated lesion. AB - Fetal cystic hygroma is a congenital malformation of the lymphatic system appearing as a single or multiloculated fluid-filled cavity, most often in the nuchal region. The malformation is believed to arise from failure of the lymphatic system to communicate with the venous nuchal system. Sometimes the lesion progresses to fetal hydrops, causing fetal death. To further delineate the cause and natural history of this disorder, we have prospectively studied eight cases of cystic hygroma of the neck, detected at gestational ages of 9 to 15 weeks by transvaginal sonography. Three of the eight fetuses survived (37.5%) and were normal at birth. Either hydrops fetalis or intrauterine fetal death occurred in the other five fetuses. In one of these five, therapeutic abortion was induced because of trisomy 21. In another fetus of these five, trisomy 18 was diagnosed by amniocentesis. This pregnancy ended in intrauterine fetal death. The ultrasonic evaluation of the cystic hygromas revealed that those that were reabsorbed in the three ultimately normal viable fetuses were nonseptated cysts, whereas all the four cystic hygromas ending in fetal death or associated with aneuploidy were septated, multilocular hygromas. In another fetus with nonseptated hygroma, nonimmune hydrops developed, which resulted in premature delivery and early neonatal death. PMID- 2526585 TI - My occupational therapy education as a person with visual and physical disabilities. PMID- 2526586 TI - A custom-made head pointer for children. AB - Severely physically disabled adults and children may be able to use a head pointer to access an augmentative communication system or to participate in activities. This paper describes how to make and fit a thermoplastic head pointer and how to train a child to use it. PMID- 2526587 TI - Cytoplasmic pH in pulmonary macrophages: recovery from acid load is Na+ independent and NEM sensitive. AB - The pulmonary macrophage plays a primary role in the immunological defense of the lung. Although many studies have been devoted to elucidation of its phagocytic and secretory functions, little is known of its membrane transport properties or of how it regulates intracellular pH (pHi). The purpose of this study, therefore, was to determine base-line pHi and the mechanism(s) by which the cell recovers pHi when challenged with an intracellular acid load. Through the use of the pH sensitive fluorescent dye, 2,7-biscarboxyethyl-5(6)-carboxy-fluorescein (BCECF), base-line pHi was estimated to be 7.24 +/- 0.03. Cells were acidified by two methods, nigericin and weak acids, while recovery (dpHi/dt) was monitored. The rate of recovery was found to be independent of external Na+ and K+ and was insensitive to amiloride. Pretreatment with 4,4'-diiso-thiocyanatostilbene-2,2' disulfonic acid, an inhibitor of Cl- -HCO3- exchange, was also without effect on recovery from an intracellular acid load in these cells, under nominally HCO3- free conditions. In contrast, N-ethylmaleimide (NEM) and N,N' dicyclohexylcarbodiimide, nonspecific inhibitors of proton adenosinetriphosphatases (ATPases), virtually abolished pHi recovery. Efflux of H+ equivalents by pulmonary macrophages was measured by techniques involving both pH stat titration and the effect on fluorescence of extracellular BCECF. Basal H+ extrusion was approximately 2.75 +/- 0.64 nmol H+.min-1.10(6) cells-1 and was enhanced to approximately 26.0 +/- 6.95 nmol H+.min-1.10(6) cells-1 in acid loaded cell suspensions. The basal rate of H+ extrusion was reduced to approximately 0.84 +/- 0.31 nmol H+.min-1.10(6) cells-1 in the presence of 1 mM NEM. These results suggest that recovery of cytoplasmic pH from an intracellular acid load, as well as regulation of pHi, under the conditions examined, is not mediated by a Na+-H+ exchanger in these cells. Rather, the data are consistent with the presence of an H+-ATPase in the plasma membrane of pulmonary macrophages. PMID- 2526588 TI - Mechanisms of hypoxia-induced atrial natriuretic factor release from rat hearts. AB - Potential mechanisms of hypoxia-induced atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) release [A.J. Baertschi, J.M. Adams, and M.P. Sullivan. Am. J. Physiol. 255 (Heart Circ. Physiol. 24): H295-H300, 1988] were investigated in Langendorff-perfused rat hearts. The ANF release was graded with stimulus intensity; 10 min of perfusion with Krebs-Henseleit solution equilibrated with 95, 20, 10, 5, and 0% oxygen led to peak ANF levels of 140 +/- 31 (SE), 202 +/- 20, 407 +/- 76, 659 +/- 119, and 516 +/- 83% of base-line ANF (159 +/- 14 pg/ml), respectively. Hypoxia-induced release of lactate dehydrogenase and creatine kinase did not correlate with ANF release; this finding, along with other experiments, rules out tissue damage as a significant factor. Phentolamine (1.3 microM) and propranolol (0.1 microM) each reduced peak hypoxia-induced (0% O2) ANF release to 333 and 310%, respectively, whereas atropine sulfate (15 microM) had no inhibitory effect. The three antagonists combined reduced the peak hypoxia-induced ANF release to the same extent (307%) as either phentolamine or propranolol alone. Earlier (24 h) catecholamine depletion of rats with 100 mg/kg 6-hydroxydopamine also significantly reduced peak hypoxia-induced ANF release to 330%. Neither the reduction of the ANF secretory responses by these interventions nor the remaining ANF response could be attributed to changes in atrial mechanics. Therefore, these studies demonstrate that alpha- and beta-adrenergic stimulation is responsible for approximately half the hypoxia-induced ANF release from the isolated heart, whereas an as yet undefined mechanism accounts for the remainder of the response. PMID- 2526590 TI - Time course of hemodynamic changes in rats with healed severe myocardial infarction. AB - Male rats were monitored for 8 mo after severe myocardial infarction (MI) to chronicle hemodynamic and left ventricular (LV) functional changes. Blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), cardiac output index (CO), regional blood flow, and systemic vascular resistance (SVR) were measured with catheters and radiolabeled microspheres at 4, 7, 10, 20, and 35 wk after coronary artery ligation (n = 10-16/group) or sham operation (control; n = 9-14/group). At 4 wk, 43 +/- 1% of the LV circumference was scarred, peak LV BP, LV dP/dtmax, mean BP, SVR, and HR were 11-38% less than control (P less than 0.05), and LV end diastolic pressure (LVEDP) was increased by 313% (P less than 0.05). Mean BP, LVEDP, LVBP, and LV dP/dtmax did not further deviate after 4 wk. However, CO and SVR changed progressively and were 67 and 33%, respectively, of control by 35 wk (P less than 0.05) when blood flow to stomach, small intestine, and kidney was 55, 38, and 27% of control. Lung and heart weights were significantly increased by 148 and 22% at 4 wk, and remained elevated, and lung dry weight-to-wet weight ratio was reduced at 7 and 10 wk. Thus the trajectory of rats with healed severe MI reflects progressive cardiac decompensation, cardiac output redistribution, and terminal heart failure. PMID- 2526589 TI - Effects of ANP on venous pressures and microvascular protein permeability in dog forelimb. AB - Intravenous administration of alpha-atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) produces a decrease in arterial blood pressure due to a decrease in cardiac output. The mechanism of the decrease in cardiac output is unknown but has been suggested to result from transcapillary fluid efflux caused by venoconstriction and/or increased permeability of the microvascular membrane to plasma proteins. We investigated these possibilities in the dog forelimb perfused at constant flow and prepared to measure 1) large and small vessel pressures in the two parallel skin and skeletal muscle vascular beds, and limb weight; or 2) skin lymph flow and skin lymph protein concentration. In both preparations, human ANP was injected and infused into the brachial artery. Bolus injections of ANP (0.1-0.4 micrograms) depressed perfusion pressure much less than acetylcholine or an isotonic solution of potassium chloride and did not raise small vein pressures. ANP infused at nine different rates ranging from 0.1 ng to 38.8 micrograms/min failed to influence skin and muscle small and large vein pressures, limb weight, skin lymph flow, and skin lymph protein concentration. It also failed to affect perfusion pressure and skin and muscle small artery pressures until the infusion was shut off, at which time they increased above control levels. These studies suggest that human alpha-ANP is neither a direct venous constrictor nor a potent arteriolar dilator and does not directly influence the permeability of the microvascular membrane to plasma proteins in the skin and skeletal muscle of the dog forelimb. PMID- 2526591 TI - Effect of ANP on circulating blood volume. AB - The effects of rat atrial natriuretic peptide (rANP) on blood volume (BV) were determined by the continuous measurement of BV, mean arterial pressure (MAP), and central venous pressure (CVP). Immediately after a single-bolus injection of rANP (1-28), 1 nmol/100 g body wt, in conscious rats, BV began to decrease. Peak reduction of -0.22 +/- 0.03 ml/100 g body wt was reached 14.5 min after the injection. Thereafter, BV levels returned gradually to -0.08 +/- 0.03 ml/100 g body wt compared with the control value. In volume expansion experiment, the nephrectomized, anesthetized rats were divided into two groups: the control group, with only a saline infusion, and the ANP group, with an infusion of saline with rANP (1 nmol/100 g body wt). In the ANP group, increases in BV were not as great, and recovery was threefold faster than that of the control group. In the ANP group, the recovery time of BV to the starting control levels was 8.5 min, and the time constant of recovery was 3.6 +/- 0.3 min-1. The control group times were 25 min and 11.5 +/- 0.8 min-1, respectively. The effective vascular compliances were approximately 2.8 ml.mmHg-1.kg body wt-1 in both groups, and the capillary filtration coefficient was 0.47 ml.mmHg-1.min-1.kg body wt-1 in the ANP group and 0.33 ml.mmHg-1.min-1.kg body wt-1 in the control group. Thus the whole body capillary filtration coefficient was 1.5-fold higher in the ANP group than in the control group. This suggests that ANP may increase the permeability of capillaries. PMID- 2526592 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide response to rapid atrial pacing in cardiac-denervated dogs. AB - The effects of rapid atrial pacing on central hemodynamics, plasma hormones, and renal function were investigated in eight control and nine cardiac-denervated dogs under chloralose anesthesia. Pacing at approximately 250 ppm for 60 min caused similar increases in pulmonary wedge and right atrial pressures, systemic vascular resistance, and plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) in both groups. In control dogs, pacing produced a fall in both plasma vasopressin (AVP) and plasma renin activity (PRA) and a rise in urine flow rate associated with an increase in free water but not sodium clearance. In contrast, in cardiac denervated dogs, both plasma AVP and PRA increased during pacing; urine flow rate did not change, and marked sodium retention occurred. This study supports the concept that the increase in urine flow during rapid atrial pacing is mediated by inhibition of renin and AVP secretion through intact cardiac nerves. The secretion of ANP is unaffected by cardiac denervation. The natriuretic and vasodilator actions of high plasma ANP concentrations during rapid atrial pacing can be inhibited either by neurally mediated cardiorenal effects in normal animals or by stimulation of the renin-angiotensin system after cardiac denervation. PMID- 2526593 TI - Effect of nicardipine and atriopeptin on transcapillary shift of fluid and proteins. AB - The possibility that calcium antagonists may alter extracellular fluid partition, as already suggested for atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), was explored in anephric anesthetized rats by measuring changes in hematocrit and plasma proteins during infusion of synthetic ANP-(103-126) and the dihydropyridine derivative nicardipine. In response to ANP (1 micrograms.kg-1.min-1) or nicardipine (0.1 microgram.kg-1.min-1), which had a similar effect on arterial pressure, hematocrit increased by 9 +/- 0.1 and 5.4 +/- 0.3%, respectively, whereas plasma protein concentration increased to a lesser extent (3.9 +/- 0.3 and 3.7 +/- 0.2%, respectively). The simultaneous infusion of ANP and nicardipine had no additive effect on hematocrit, whereas the effect on arterial pressure was markedly enhanced. In additional experiments, an attempt was made to estimate the vascular leak of albumin in various tissues, using a quantitative Evans blue technique. Both ANP and nicardipine increased dye extravasation in skeletal and cardiac muscle, whereas ANP but not nicardipine increased extravasation in intestine. No significant change was observed in brain, liver, and lungs. These results suggest that nicardipine and ANP reduce plasma volume by an extrarenal mechanism. This fluid shift, possibly resulting from hemodynamic changes at the capillary level, is associated with a marked transfer of plasma albumin out of the vascular compartment. PMID- 2526594 TI - Calcitropic actions of prolactin in freshwater North American eel (Anguilla rostrata LeSueur). AB - In freshwater-acclimated American eels (Anguilla rostrata LeSueur), ovine prolactin and grafts of the part of the pituitary gland containing the prolactin cells induced hypercalcemia. The hypercalcemia was associated with increased uptake of calcium from the water (resulting from increased influx and decreased efflux) and with enhanced high-affinity Ca2+-adenosinetriphosphatase (ATPase) activity in the gills, the putative biochemical correlate of the branchial Ca2+ pump. Kinetic analyses of ATPase-mediated Ca2+ transport in plasma membrane vesicles of branchial epithelium provided evidence that prolactin enhanced the maximum velocity of the Ca2+ pump. Prolactin treatments raised plasma cortisol levels slightly but significantly in eels. However, cortisol per se was not hypercalcemic in eels and did not stimulate the branchial Ca2+ pump. We conclude that the hypercalcemic potency of prolactin in fish relates to its stimulatory action on active Ca2+ transport in the gills. PMID- 2526595 TI - Aldosterone binding sites along nephron of Xenopus and rabbit. AB - Distal segment of several amphibians exhibits aldosterone-modulated ion transport properties. On the other hand, A6 cells, derived from Xenopus laevis (XL) kidney, are aldosterone sensitive. We examined the distribution of aldosterone binding sites in isolated tubules of XL compared with rabbit. After incubation with 2 nM [3H]aldosterone, microdissected tubular segments from proximal (PT), distal straight segment (DST), and flask cell collecting (CT) tubules from XL and from rabbit cortical thick ascending limb (CTAL), connecting (CNT), and collecting (CCD) tubules were processed for dry film autoradiography. In XL, specific nuclear labeling of type I (mineralocorticoid) sites was restricted to DST. Labeling of type II (glucocorticoid) sites was present all along the tubule. No specific cytoplasmic labeling was observed, except for type II sites in PT. In the rabbit, aldosterone binds to both type I and type II sites in the three tubular segments studied. In these segments, the binding was about fourfold higher than in DST of XL. These results bring direct evidence in designating the distal tubule of amphibians as a target epithelium for aldosterone. In addition, they suggest that A6 cell line may derive from DST of the Xenopus nephron. PMID- 2526596 TI - [A rheumatologist's point of view on lumbago]. AB - The rheumatologist has to be sure the low back pain of more than three months duration has a mechanical origin, i.e. that it is not due to a tumoral, infectious, metabolic or traumatic vertebral disease. He has to recognise a low back pain from visceral origin and, at the opposite, a functional disorder. The mechanical low back pain may arise from the intervertebral disk, the articular process, a spondylolisthesis, etc... The management includes various physical and medicamentous means; the surgical procedures must be exceptional and have to be done only in highly selected patients. There is a great amount of post-operative sources of low-back pain. PMID- 2526597 TI - [A neurosurgeon's point of view on lumbago]. AB - Low back pain is an important health and economic problem which plagues a large segment of the population of industrialized countries. Etiologic theories based upon tissue damage, and therapeutic measures aimed at eliminating a presumed noxious stimulus are often not efficacious. There is considerable evidence that social and psychological factors play a major role in the symptom complex known as "Low Back pain". PMID- 2526598 TI - [Functional anatomy of the lumbar spine]. AB - Anatomical data on lumbar spine allow to insist on the spinal motion segments and on their nerves, all essential notions to understand lumbar pain. PMID- 2526599 TI - [Medical imaging and chronic backache]. AB - The different procedures for imaging the lumbar spine are presented within a general review of chronic low back pain. Plain films still represent the main procedure: they are sufficient for common backache, the most frequent pattern of chronic low back pain. They help in determining further investigations in symptomatic low back pain, due either to spinal or non spinal conditions. PMID- 2526601 TI - [Influence of medicolegal aspects on the management of the treatment of chronic backache]. AB - After reviewing the different legal definitions in which low back pain is determined to represent a compensable injury, authors evoke the difficulties to prove the reality and the degree of impairment. They recommend to solve conflicting medico legal rules and disability before using other pain relief technics. PMID- 2526600 TI - [Posterior spinal cord neurostimulation in lumbar radiculitis pain. Apropos of 14 cases]. AB - In 14 patients, spinal cord stimulation in lumbar radiculopathy follow multiple exploration or iterative surgery. For 10 out of this 14 patients treatment was successful; pain relief lasted a mean time of 12.7 months in 9 out of them. PMID- 2526602 TI - [Injectable homeopathic treatment in patients with backache. An approach]. AB - Among unaccustomed treatments for low back pain homeopathy matter given by injection has been joined with usual care. Preliminary results have to be confirmed by controlled studies. PMID- 2526603 TI - Inherited hypercoagulable states in children. AB - Disorders that predispose children to venous thrombosis include inherited abnormalities of antithrombin III, protein S, protein C, fibrinogen, and plasminogen. Arterial thrombosis may result from disorders that produce endothelial damage, abnormal vascular flow, or increased platelet aggregation. We present here a case of a child who had recurrent thromboses and discuss the evaluation and management of such patients. PMID- 2526604 TI - Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in a neonate with Down's syndrome. Case report and literature review. AB - We report a 3 1/2-week-old male infant with Down's syndrome who presented with abdominal distention, ascites, and eosinophilia and was subsequently diagnosed as having an abdominal non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of T-cell type. Because of the unusual association of these two conditions, especially at this early age, the literature was reviewed regarding the possible oncogenic mechanisms in Down's syndrome patients and the various malignancies associated with this condition. Non Hodgkin's lymphoma is discussed briefly with emphasis on its possible etiologic mechanisms and predisposing conditions, especially the immunodeficiency states. Because this infant presented with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma at an early age, it is considered unlikely that an immunoaberration is responsible. Also, a short discussion of this patient's peripheral and bone marrow eosinophilia is given, implicating a T-cell product (e.g., eosinophil differentiation factor) as the putative pathophysiologic mechanism. PMID- 2526605 TI - A fluorescein-methotrexate-based flow cytometric bioassay for measurement of plasma methotrexate and trimetrexate levels. AB - We describe a bioassay for the quantitation of plasma methotrexate and trimetrexate levels employing intact cells. This assay is based on the intracellular saturation of dihydrofolate reductase with fluorescein-methotrexate (F-MTX) and its dose-dependent displacement by methotrexate or trimetrexate as monitored by flow cytometry. Serially diluted methotrexate-containing plasma, representing a wide chemotherapeutic range, produces F-MTX displacement curves similar to those of standard methotrexate solutions. There is no interference by normal plasma components such as folate and its reduced forms. Plasma methotrexate or trimetrexate concentration is the product of the 50% displacing concentration of standard antifolate (IC50) and the reciprocal of the plasma dilution which yields the same displacement. F-MTX competition with standard methotrexate displayed linear displacement from 18.0 +/- 3.1 to 33.7 +/- 1.5 nM (n = 10). The standard trimetrexate calibration curve was linear from 0.28 +/- 0.03 to 1.5 +/- 0.33 nM (n = 8). Thus, the bioassay sensitivities for methotrexate and trimetrexate are at least 18 and 0.3 nM, respectively. Comparison of methotrexate levels in 10 plasma specimens from cancer patients determined by the clinical enzyme inhibition assay and by our bioassay showed a high degree of correlation (r = 0.987). PMID- 2526606 TI - Size-dependent, chromatographic separation of double-stranded DNA which is not based on gel permeation mode. AB - A new procedure for size-dependent fractionation of DNA was investigated. DNA fragments ranging from 10 to 40 kbp were separated by using columns for high performance gel permeation chromatography. However, the order of elution was opposite to that which would be expected for gel permeation chromatography, i.e., smaller fragments were eluted faster than larger fragments, though separation based on normal gel permeation chromatography was observed when smaller DNA fragments (less than 5 kbp) were applied. The size range of DNA which can be resolved by this new procedure was found to depend on both particle size and flow rate; the use of a column packed with smaller particles or the application of a faster flow rate enabled us to resolve smaller DNA fragments, but the pore size or chemical nature of the column packing had scarcely any effect on the resolution. This mode of separation was attained by using both silica and polymer packings. The results suggest that the separation is based on a hydrodynamic phenomenon. PMID- 2526607 TI - Divergent patterns of pulmonary blastomycosis induced by conidia and yeasts in athymic and euthymic mice. AB - Athymic nude (nu/nu) mice are uniformly more susceptible than euthymic nu/+ mice to lethal infection with intranasally inoculated Blastomyces dermatitidis, whether infection is initiated by yeasts or conidia. Conidial infection requires a high inoculum size; the disease produced is prolonged and disseminated. Yeasts are infective at a low inoculum size and produce a rapidly fatal pneumonia. Thymus transplantation is more protective for conidia-infected than yeast infected nude mice, presumably because the disease course is long enough for an effect to become demonstrable. Yeast inocula multiply more rapidly in the lungs than do conidial inocula. This may relate to the greater susceptibility of conidia to heterophils evoked in the airways, and the fact that yeasts derived from conidial inocula must survive in the face of an established inflammatory reaction. When yeasts and conidia are inoculated simultaneously, the disease produced is less severe than when yeasts are inoculated alone, presumably because of a more intense and diffuse inflammatory response engendered by the conidia. Suppression of conidia-derived yeast replication is demonstrable for at least 1 wk in nu/nu mice and for 2 to 3 wk in nu/+ mice. The latter delay appears attributable to the intact immune system in nu/+ mice, and the probability that cellular immunity limits the subsequent replication of yeasts. Eventually, the immune response fails to control yeast replication, and the mice succumb. These studies provide further insights into the role of the thymus in host defense against B. dermatitidis and the basis for the differential pace of infection when mice are infected with yeasts or conidia. PMID- 2526609 TI - Congenital anomalies of the eustachian tube in Down syndrome. Histopathologic case report. AB - Congenital anomalies of the eustachian tube (ET) that may play an important role in the cause of otitis media with effusion should be investigated histopathologically. One such anomaly, which has not been thoroughly investigated to date, is that accompanying Down syndrome. This report describes histopathologic findings in a temporal bone obtained from a 26-weeks' gestation male fetus with Down syndrome. As compared to a control specimen, its ET was extremely small, mostly collapsed in the midcartilaginous, isthmus, and tympanic portions, and had poorly developed lateral cartilage in the midcartilaginous portion. This is the first case report of such ET anomalies, which appear to be due to an insult to the ET that occurs earlier in fetal life than the 16th gestational week. This insult is possibly a causative factor in postnatal ET dysfunction. PMID- 2526608 TI - Expression of HLA class II genes in alveolar macrophages of patients with sarcoidosis. AB - Sarcoidosis is characterized by the accumulation of activated helper/inducer T cells and macrophages at sites of disease. The accumulation of these T-cells may be related to the ability of sarcoid alveolar macrophages to present antigen and stimulate lymphocyte proliferation in an exaggerated fashion. In the context that HLA Class II gene (HLA-DR, DQ, and DP) expression is essential to the interaction of lymphocytes with antigen-presenting cells such as macrophages, we have evaluated the hypothesis that the expression of Class II genes may be up regulated in sarcoid alveolar macrophages. Northern blot and dot blot analysis with 32P-labeled cDNA probes for HLA-DR, DQ, and DP genes revealed that both normal and sarcoid alveolar macrophages contain Class II mRNA transcripts, but that the levels in sarcoid and normal alveolar macrophages are similar (p greater than 0.3, all comparisons). Furthermore, evaluation of surface expression of Class II molecules with monoclonal antibodies and flow cytometry analysis demonstrated that alveolar macrophages of both patients with sarcoidosis and normal subjects express all three Class II molecules, DR, DQ, and DP, but there were no significant differences between sarcoid patients and normal subjects in the proportions of macrophages expressing these surface molecules. However, there was a significantly higher surface density of Class II molecules on sarcoid alveolar macrophages (p less than 0.05, all comparisons sarcoid to normal).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526610 TI - Subtransversalis passage of a rectus abdominis island flap for treatment of osteomyelitis of the posterior superior iliac spine. AB - An osteomyelitic defect of the posterior superior iliac spine was filled with a rectus abdominis island pedicle flap passed beneath the transversalis fascia and through the preperitoneal and retroperitoneal spaces. This maneuver extends the arc of rotation of this flap to the posterior rim of the pelvis and increases the potential uses of the flap in the reconstruction of complex pelvic wounds. PMID- 2526611 TI - Beneficial effect of 6-mercaptopurine on the mitotic index of trisomy 21 lymphocytes. Implications for future research. AB - Low doses of 6-mercaptopurine were found to significantly increase the mitotic index in lymphocytes of patients with trisomy 21. This finding implies that excess purine synthesis in Down syndrome is responsible for lymphocyte cytotoxicity. We suggest that, in addition to the three steps already known, other genes involved in the "de novo" purine synthesis pathway might be located on chromosome 21 and that they are responsible for increased adenine nucleotides, nucleotide pool imbalance and perhaps relative guanine nucleotide deficiency. This would open new areas of research into the patho-physiology of trisomy 21. PMID- 2526612 TI - Inherited pericentric inversion of Y-chromosome with trisomy 21. A case report. AB - A 13-year-old boy with clinical features of Down syndrome was investigated. His karyotype was 47,X,inv(Y),+21. The proband's father and two elder brothers were also found to have the inv(Y). A spontaneous chromatid break was observed in the long arm of the X chromosome[? fra (X)] in 2% of the cells. The mother had two spontaneous abortions. This is the first case of trisomy-21 with inv(Y) in our population. This finding might be fortuitous. The frequency of inv(Y) in Down syndrome is not known. PMID- 2526613 TI - Cytotoxicity of smancs in comparison with other anticancer agents against various cells in culture. AB - The cytoxicity of neocarzinostatin (NCS) and smancs [copoly(styrene maleic acid) conjugated NCS] to various cultured cells was compared with that of several other antitumor agens in clinical use on various malignant and non-malignant cells as regards to their effect on colony formation of cells. Both NCS and smancs showed the most potent cytotoxicity against all tumor cell lines tested; the IC50s (colony inhibitory concentration 50%) of these drugs were 3.2-20 nM, 10-1000 times lower than those of other drugs. In contrast, NCS and smancs exhibited relatively lower toxicity to normal cells such as human skin fibroblasts and chick embryonic fibroblasts (IC50, about 50 and 100 nM, respectively). Normal rat hepatocytes were found to be very resistant to NCS and smancs (both IC50s were about 500 nM). Moreover, the minimum exposure time of smancs to cultured tumor cells required to achieve effective cytotoxic activity was much shorter than that of NCS and other drugs. Namely, at 30 nM more than 80% cells were killed by exposure to smancs for only a few minutes, whereas with NCS more than 80 min of exposure time was required. It was also found that smancs inhibited the uptake of 3H-thymidine into DNA as expected. These results clearly indicate that smancs is an unique antitumor agent with a broad antitumor spectrum which exhibits some characteristics similar to, but also some very different from NCS. PMID- 2526614 TI - Nicotinamide and selenium stimulate the repair of DNA damage produced by N nitrosobis (2-oxopropyl) amine. AB - The effects of nicotinamide (NIC) and selenium (SE), given alone or together, on N-nitrosobis (2-oxopropyl) amine (BOP)-induced DNA damage were measured in rat liver and colon. SE stimulated DNA repair in both tissues, whereas NIC was without effect. The failure of NIC to stimulate the repair of BOP-induced DNA damage in rat liver, where BOP is a methylating and hydroxypropylating agent, suggested that the nature of the DNA damaging agent could be important. NIC stimulated the repair of DNA damage induced by BOP (methylating agent in the pancreas) and N-nitrosodiethylamine (ethylating agent) but not by azaserine (carboxymethylating agent) or N-nitroso-5,6-dihydrouracil (carboxyethylating agent). PMID- 2526615 TI - Comparative pharmacokinetics of clarithromycin (TE-031), a new macrolide antibiotic, and erythromycin in rats. AB - Clarithromycin (TE-031) is a newly synthesized macrolide with high stability in acidic conditions. In the present study, the pharmacokinetics of [N-methyl 14C]clarithromycin were compared with those of [N-methyl-14C]erythromycin in rats by radioassay and bioassay. Both radioactivity and bioactivity of [14C]clarithromycin in plasma and tissues were found to be significantly higher than those of [14C]erythromycin at the same oral dose of 20 mg/kg (body weight). Among the tissues, the peak level of [14C]clarithromycin in the lung was especially high. Levels of radioactivity and bioactivity amounted to 15 and 73 times the corresponding levels of [14C]erythromycin. In the urine, bioactivity recovered after administration of [14C]clarithromycin was sevenfold higher than that for [14C]erythromycin. This accounted for about 60 and 20% of the total radioactivity in the urine for [14C]clarithromycin and [14C]erythromycin, respectively. An examination of metabolites in the urine for [14C]clarithromycin revealed appreciable amounts of bioactive unchanged clarithromycin. These results indicate that clarithromycin has pharmacokinetic properties superior to those of erythromycin. The desirable properties of clarithromycin include high levels in plasma resulting from its high stability in gastric acid; a high tissue affinity, especially to the lung; and favorable urinary excretion. PMID- 2526616 TI - Inhibition of human immunodeficiency virus in vitro by combinations of 3'-azido 3'-deoxythymidine and foscarnet. AB - We describe a synergistic effect of combinations of foscarnet and 3'-azido-3' deoxythymidine against human immunodeficiency virus type 1 multiplication in cell culture, an additive effect of foscarnet and 3'-azido-3'-deoxythymidine triphosphate against human immunodeficiency virus type 1 reverse transcriptase, and a low toxicity in cell culture of combinations of the two drugs. PMID- 2526618 TI - [Effect of medroxyprogesterone acetate on side effects of CAP therapy in gynecological malignant tumors]. AB - We concomitantly administered a large dose of medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) to gynecological malignant tumor patients undergoing CAP therapy (CAP). Hematological changes in the peripheral blood were compared between concomitant MPA patients and those not receiving MPA to examine the effect of MPA in reducing the marrow depression which is the major side effect of CAP. 1) Leukocyte count reached minimum at the second week of CAP in both groups. There was no significant difference in the count between the two groups. At the third week of CAP, the count improved to 84% of the pre-CAP level in patients receiving MPA and to 68% in those not receiving MPA, a significant difference (p less than 0.01). At the fourth week, leukocyte counts were 105% and 96% of pre-CAP levels, respectively. There was no difference between the two groups, but the leukocyte count returned to the pre-CAP level in the patients receiving MPA. 2) Platelet count showed changes similar to those in the leukocyte count. In patients receiving MPA, the count improved more rapidly within three weeks (118%, p less than 0.01), and was significantly higher at the fourth week (107%, p less than 0.05) than in patients not receiving MPA. 3) Reticulocyte count reached minimum in the first week, thereafter improving rapidly in both groups. No differences were noted between the two groups. 4) The periods needed for one course of CAP were 27.7 +/- 3.3 days in the patients receiving MPA and 29.5 +/- 3.7 days in the patients not receiving MPA, making for a significant difference between the two groups (p less than 0.05). These results show that MPA accelerates recovery from marrow depression caused by CAP. It is anticipated, therefore, that MPA will be helpful in the application of various chemotherapies which are expected to be frequently conducted in the future. PMID- 2526617 TI - Selectivity of modification when latent and activated forms of the chloroplast F1 ATPase are inactivated by 7-chloro-4-nitrobenzofurazan. AB - The characteristics and specificity of inactivation of the chloroplast F1-ATPase (CF1) with 7-chloro-4-nitrobenzofurazan (Nbf-Cl) have been investigated. Inactivation of the octylglucoside-dependent Mg2+-ATPase activity of latent CF1 by Nbf-Cl can be correlated with the formation of about 1.2 mol of Nbf-O-Tyr per mole of enzyme. Following inactivation of CF1 with [14C]Nbf-Cl, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate revealed that the majority of the radioactive reagent incorporated is present in the beta subunit. Treatment of the enzyme with [14C]Nbf-Cl following dithiothreitol heat activation, led to similar labeling of the beta subunit and substantial incorporation of 14C into the gamma subunit. On complete inactivation, about 4 mol of Nbf-S-Cys is formed per mole of dithiothreitol-heat-activated CF1. Incorporation of 14C into the gamma subunit is prevented by prior treatment of the latent CF1 or of the dithiothreitol-heat-activated CF1 with iodoacetamide. Following incubation of the dithiothreitol-heat-activated CF1 with iodoacetamide, complete inactivation of the octylglucoside-dependent Mg2+-ATPase activity by Nbf Cl can be correlated with the formation of about 1.2 mol of Nbf-O-Tyr per mole of enzyme. After stabilization of the [14C]Nbf-O-Tyr derivative by treatment with sodium dithionite, a labeled peptide was purified. Automatic Edman degradation of this peptide revealed the sequence V-X-V-P-A-D-(D). The majority of the radioactivity was cleaved in the second cycle, the position occupied in CF1 by Tyr-beta-328, which is homologous to Tyr-beta-311, the residue reactive with Nbf Cl in the beef heart mitochondrial F1-ATPase. When CF1, modified at Tyr-beta-328 with Nbf-Cl, is incubated at pH 9.0, the Nbf-O-Tyr adduct is hydrolyzed, leading to concomitant recovery of the ATPase activity. In double labeling experiments, two-dimensional isoelectric focusing in the presence of urea followed by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate indicates that 2-azido-ADP, covalently bound at the tight ADP binding site, and the tyrosine modified by [14C]Nbf-Cl are located in different beta subunits. PMID- 2526619 TI - [Mammary gland carcinoma treated by large-dose medroxyprogesterone acetate of which pulmonary metastases disappeared and a selection of hormone, chemoimmunological treatment]. AB - A patient who underwent radical mastectomy was treated by tegafur and tamoxifen. Pulmonary metastases were found four months after operation. Lymphokine activated killer (LAK) and auxiliary interleukin-2 (IL-2) administration was performed, with no change (NC). However, administration of large-dose medroxyprogesterone acetate induced complete disappearance of pulmonary metastases after more than nine months. PMID- 2526620 TI - [Combination with medroxyprogesterone acetate and chemotherapy making possible complete removal of uterine corpus carcinoma]. AB - A case of uterine corpus carcinoma (stage III) after surgical resection of her primary lesion was treated with a medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) and PAE (CDDP, adriamycin and etoposide) regimen. The patient has been given MPA during a three-month period and received four courses of PAE regimen. The residual tumor was decreased and removed completely at the second-look operation. Pathologically, the carcinoma cells were clearly changed in loss of atrophy or degeneration by MPA or PAE regimen. After the second-look operation, the patient underwent 4 courses of PAE regimen and was given MPA continuously. We have not recognized any recurrence of carcinoma for seven months after the second look operation. PMID- 2526623 TI - [Direct screening of antibiotics-siderophores of bacterial origin]. AB - Antifungal activity of 275 strains belonging to 15 species of Pseudomonas was studied with using media containing no iron or supplemented with 100 micrograms/ml of FeCl3. 33 per cent of the cultures showed lower activity against phytopathogenic fungi in the presence of iron. Addition of this element did not influence the antifungal activity of phenazin and floroglucin derivatives isolated from Pseudomonas cultures. However, its addition markedly lowered the antifungal effect of some crude antibiotics and fluorescent pigments. A scheme for screening siderophore antibiotics with using Pseudomonas cultures is described. PMID- 2526621 TI - [A study of combined chemotherapy with MMC, ADM, CDDP, VP-16 and 5'DFUR (MAC-VD) in advanced cancers of digestive organs]. PMID- 2526622 TI - Intradermal hepatitis B vaccine in thalassaemia and sickle cell disease. AB - Thirty two patients with beta thalassaemia and sickle cell disease who were having regular blood transfusions were selected to test the efficacy and immunogenicity of low dose (2 micrograms or 0.1 ml) intradermal hepatitis B vaccine compared with the standard (20 micrograms or 1 ml) intramuscular dose. There was no significant difference in the rates of seroconversion, seroconversion had occurred in all patients by seven months. There were no significant differences in antibody titres between the intramuscular and intradermal groups at 1, 2, and 6 months. Although the titres were significantly higher in the intramuscular group at seven months and at 12-18 months, the antibody titre in the intradermal group did not fall below 10 IU/l. The results of this study suggest that low dose intradermal hepatitis B vaccination is an effective and economical way of stimulating an immune response in patients with beta thalassaemia and sickle cell disease. PMID- 2526624 TI - [Electric left ventricular hypertrophy and pulsatile component of arterial pressure in a population study]. AB - High systolic or diastolic blood pressure is a risk factor of left ventricular hypertrophy. However, haemodynamically speaking blood pressure is made of two components: continuous and pulsatile. Few authors have analysed the relationship between these two components and left ventricular hypertrophy. A horizontal study was conducted in 27, 687 subjects who volunteered for a medical check-up in Paris. A principal component analysis led to the estimation of two distinct parameters: a continuous pressure index (CPI) and a pulsed pressure index (PPI). The correlation between CPI and age was linear, whereas PPI was independent of age before 55 years and thereafter increased in a linear manner. This study also confirmed the importance of the relationship between the continuous component of blood pressure and electrocardiographic left ventricular hypertrophy. It is suggested that the pulsatile component might also be a risk factor of left ventricular hypertrophy independently of the continuous component level. Only a prospective study would confirm that an increase in the pulsatile component of blood pressure has a prognostic value as regards ventricular hypertrophy. PMID- 2526626 TI - [The occurrence of Fusarium strains and their mycotoxins in corn silage. 4. The occurrence of zearalenone in the first cut zone of horizontal silos]. AB - Studies of the occurrence of zearalenone in the cutting surface of a horizontal silo were carried out over 12 days. On all sampling days the silage contained less than 0.1 mg/kg zearalenone (detection limit of the thin-layer chromatographic procedure). Zearalenone could not be detected in silage put into interim store over a period of 17 days either. The results document that zearalenone-producing Fusarium species have no considerable share in the decay of maize silage. PMID- 2526625 TI - [Left ventricular relaxation and ambulatory blood pressure in mild, untreated arterial hypertension]. AB - Twenty patients with mild, untreated arterial hypertension had ambulatory blood pressure recordings and a digitized echocardiographic study of the left ventricle with measurement of its mass (LVM) and of relaxation parameters. A significant correlation was found between LVM and ambulatory systolic pressure during daytime (r = 0.64; p less than 0.01; n = 20) and during 24 hours (r = 0.79; p less than 0.001; n = 16). One of the relaxation parameters studied, the time taken to reach maximal speed of left ventricular enlargement, was closely related to the diurnal diastolic blood pressure (r = 0.58; p less than 0.01; n = 20), whereas in this population with mild arterial blood pressure none of the parameters was related to the amount of increase of LVM. One may therefore consider the abnormalities of left ventricular relaxation as likely to appear at an early stage of arterial hypertension; their discovery may antedate that of LVM and confirm that the hypertensive disease is real. However, the methodological problems encountered with type of exploration ought to be stressed: left ventricular relaxation is a multifactorial phenomenon, and its echocardiographic approach is subject to many hazards. PMID- 2526627 TI - The iliolumbar ligament syndrome. PMID- 2526628 TI - Sacroiliac dysfunction as a cause of low back pain. AB - The diagnosis of sacroiliac dysfunction cannot be assessed by the usual movements of the lumbar spine; namely, extension, flexion and lateral flexion. Many patients complaining of lower back pain have good lumbar mobility. If this is so, careful attention must be given to other structures in the region capable of causing lower back pain, including the sacroiliac joints (SIJs). PMID- 2526629 TI - Purification and characterization of glutathione disulfide-stimulated Mg2+-ATPase from human erythrocytes. AB - We have previously shown the presence of two different forms of glutathione disulfide (GSSG)-stimulated Mg2+-ATPases in human erythrocytes. We have now investigated a low-Km form of the enzyme from human erythrocytes. Purification of the enzyme was performed to apparent homogeneity involving procedures of affinity chromatography and gel filtration. The enzyme was composed of two non-identical subunits of Mr = 82K and 62K. The enzyme reconstituted into phospholipid vesicles showed both GSSG-stimulated Mg2+-ATPase activity (285 nmol Pi released/mg protein/min) and active GSSG transport activity (320 nmol GSSG/mg protein/min). The amino acid composition of the enzyme was similar to that of the enzyme purified from cytoplasmic membranes of human hepatocytes. These enzymes were immunologically cross reactive. These results indicate that this enzyme functions in the active transport of GSSG as it possibly does in hepatocytes. PMID- 2526630 TI - The Engelbreth-Holm-Swarm mouse tumor produces undersulfated heparan sulfate and oversulfated galactosaminoglycans. AB - Glycosaminoglycans were prepared from the Engelbreth-Holm-Swarm mouse tumor. Enzymatic analysis demonstrated heparan sulfate (95.8%) and chondroitinase ABC sensitive galactosaminoglycans (4.2%). HPLC analysis of the disaccharide units showed that heparan sulfate chains were undersulfated on average, comprising approximately 30% nonsulfated and 60% N-sulfated disaccharide units with small proportions of other monosulfated and disulfated disaccharide units. In contrast, galactosaminoglycan chains were oversulfated, containing an appreciable proportion (15%) of a 4,6-disulfated (so-called E-type) disaccharide unit in addition to 51% of a 4-sulfated, 22% of a 6-sulfated, and 11% of a nonsulfated disaccharide unit. The significance of the oversulfated disaccharide structure is discussed in relation to the possible regulation of functions of hybrid proteoglycans from which the galactosaminoglycan chains are derived. PMID- 2526631 TI - Effects of valinomycin on calcium mobilization in vascular smooth muscle cells induced by angiotensin II. AB - The effect of the specific potassium (K+) ionophore valinomycin on increase in intracellular calcium concentration [( Ca2+]i) was studied in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC). Valinomycin at more than 10(-9) M dose-dependently suppressed phasic increase in [Ca2+]i in VSMC induced by angiotensin II (AII) in both control and Ca2+-free solution, indicating that it suppressed the release of Ca2+ from intracellular Ca2+ stores. Nicorandil and cromakalim, which are both K+ channel openers, also suppressed the increases in [Ca2+]i induced by AII in the Ca2+ free solution. However, valinomycin did not suppress AII-induced production of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3), which is known to mediate the release of Ca2+. These results indicate that decrease of intracellular K+ induced by valinomycin suppressed the release of Ca2+ from intracellular Ca2+ stores induced by IP3. PMID- 2526632 TI - A preliminary study of circulating immune complexes during allergen immunotherapy in Thai patients. AB - Circulating immune complexes are suspected as a potentially serious adverse effect after prolonged allergen immunotherapy. This study was undertaken to determine whether there were any significant immunological differences between 32 subjects with allergic rhinitis/asthma treated with immunotherapy of various durations and 13 subjects with similar diagnosis who had never been treated by immunotherapy. All patients were carefully examined for symptoms and signs of immune-complex diseases with negative results. The presence of circulating immune complexes was evaluated by the modified 125I-C1q binding test, the solid phase conglutinin (K) binding test and determination of C3, C4 and C3d levels. In addition, urinalysis, and quantitative determination of serum IgG, IgA, IgM and IgE were also performed. The overall results suggested that prolonged allergen immunotherapy did not result in an increase of circulating immune complexes or other adverse immunological consequences. PMID- 2526633 TI - Hepatitis B immunization in high risk neonates born from HBsAg positive mothers: comparison between plasma derived and recombinant DNA vaccine. AB - A half dose recombinant hepatitis B vaccine (HBVax II, MSD, 5 micrograms) was investigated for efficacy in the prevention of perinatal hepatitis B virus (HBV) transmission in high risk neonates born from e-antigen positive HBsAg carrier mothers as compared to the half-standard dose regimen of plasma derived hepatitis B vaccine (HBVax, MSD, 10 micrograms). Forty infants born to carrier mothers were given hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG) 100 IU intramuscularly immediately after birth, combined with either the recombinant or plasma derived hepatitis B vaccine. The infants were randomly divided into two groups of 20 infants each. The plasma derived vaccine (10 micrograms) was given to group I, while infants in group II received the recombinant vaccine (5 micrograms) at birth, 1 and 6 months of age. There were no statistically significant differences in the efficacy and the seroconversion rate of these two combined prophylaxis regimens. The protective efficacy rate of both kinds of HBV vaccine was found to be 94.6 and 89.2 percent in group I and group II respectively. At twelve months of age, the anti-HBs seroconversion rates were 95.0 percent in group I and 84.2 percent in group II. However, the geometric mean titres in group I (179.55 mIU/ml) was significantly higher than those in group II (42.2 mIU/ml) but the anti-HBs titre was still above protective level (10 mIU/ml) in most of the infants.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526634 TI - Trisomy 21 (Down's syndrome): autoimmunity, aging and monoclonal antibody-defined T-cell abnormalities. AB - Down's syndrome has been associated with organ-specific autoimmunity and 'premature aging'. We studied 27 individuals with Down's syndrome (all trisomy 21, no translocations aged 0.5 to 50 years). Subjects were not preselected for autoimmunity. Six subjects had a history of hypothyroidism and three additional subjects had anti-microsomal antibodies (euthyroid). Three subjects had insulin dependent diabetes mellitus and one additional subject had islet cell autoantibodies (non-diabetic). The percentage Ia (Dr) positive T cells exceeded the normal range in 7/26 (27%). The percent CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were not significantly different from control. A subgroup of Down's syndrome subjects (less than age 10) had a premature increase in the percentage of 3G5+ (age related) T cells. Normal individuals express a similar percentage of 3G5+ T cells at age 50 to 70 years. The presence of T-cell activation and 'premature T-cell aging' may predispose Down's syndrome subjects to organ-specific autoimmunity and age-related disorders. PMID- 2526635 TI - A WHO newsletter in Burma. PMID- 2526636 TI - TCR V beta genes in man and mouse and the factors that shape the linkage pattern of immune receptor genes. PMID- 2526637 TI - Antigen-presenting cells for unprimed T cells. AB - The triggering requirements of T cells differ for primed and unprimed cells: primed T cells can be triggered to produce lymphokines without viable antigen presenting cells (APCs), apparently by crosslinking the T-cell receptor (TCR). Unprimed T cells do, however, require viable APCs and here Jonathan Sprent and Mary Schaefer review what type of cells can carry out this function, with particular reference to APCs for unprimed CD8+ cells. PMID- 2526638 TI - CD8+ cells sustain spontaneous IgG production in SLE. PMID- 2526640 TI - The interleukin 1 receptor. PMID- 2526639 TI - Speculations on the specificity of suppression. AB - The mechanisms of antigen-specific T-cell suppression still remain inadequately explained. There has been a prolonged and unsuccessful hunt for 'suppressor cell markers'. This has largely deflected attention from a critical question--namely, what molecular structures are specifically recognized by cells mediating antigen specific T-cell suppression? Here, Richard Batchelor and colleagues present the hypothesis that the structures 'seen' by these cells are in principle the same as those recognized by other T cells, that is, a major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecule holding a peptide in its binding cleft. In the particular circumstances of specific suppression, the peptide is derived from the variable (idiotypic) regions of the T-cell receptor of the target clone. PMID- 2526641 TI - Immunological tolerance: new approaches using transgenic mice. AB - Transgenic technology allows the introduction into the germline of an animal of a known gene coding for a normally foreign antigen, and by means of a specific promoter, the direction of its expression to specific tissues. The antigen is therefore synthesized by the animal as an authentic self molecule, at a particular stage in development, and in a particular site. In this review, J.F.A.P. Miller and colleagues discuss this radically new approach to the investigation of the mechanism of acquired immunological tolerance to self components. PMID- 2526642 TI - The thymus selects the useful, neglects the useless and destroys the harmful. AB - Although efficient at reacting to foreign antigen in the context of MHC, mature T cells do not normally react to self antigens presented by self MHC. In this review, Harald von Boehmer and colleagues describe the investigation of self MHC restriction and self-tolerance using TCR transgenic mice expressing a receptor for the male-specific minor histocompatibility antigen, H-Y, in the context of class I H-2Db MHC antigens, on many of their T cells. CD4-8+ T cells expressing the transgenic receptor were positively selected by the restricting H-2Db MHC antigens in female transgenic mice. In the male TCR transgenic mice, CD4+8+ thymocytes were deleted, and transgene-expressing T cells with high surface density of CD8 were-absent from the periphery. The remaining T cells could not be activated by male H-Y stimulator cells, as they lacked or expressed only low levels of CD8 molecules. PMID- 2526643 TI - Native interleukin 1 inhibitors. AB - Much information has accumulated on the isolation and characterization of a heterogeneous group of molecules that inhibit one or more of the bioactivities of interleukin 1. In this review James Larrick discusses the biological and biochemical data available on several of these native interleukin 1 inhibitors, some of which have additional, unexpected activities. PMID- 2526644 TI - Subpopulations of human peripheral T gamma delta lymphocytes. AB - In the search for the genes encoding the alpha and beta chains of the T-cell receptor, Tonegawa et al. discovered a third class of rearranging T-cell specific genes. This finding led them to postulate the existence of additional forms of T cell receptors. In this article, Frederic Tribel and Thierry Hercend briefly discuss recent results, which may help in the delineation of human peripheral blood gamma delta+ subsets based on the molecular structure of this receptor. PMID- 2526645 TI - Echocardiographic insights into the pathophysiology and prognostic significance of hypertensive cardiac hypertrophy. AB - Recent studies have shown that echocardiographically measured left ventricular (LV) mass is a strong predictor of cardiovascular morbidity in hypertension, possibly more important than blood pressure itself. Echocardiography has shown the left ventricle to be heterogeneous in hypertensive patients with regard to both the extent to which it uses increased myocardial mass or enhanced contractile performance to sustain the pressure load of hypertension and to the geometric patterns in which hypertensive LV hypertrophy occurs. The possible relationship of this heterogeneity of cardiac patterns in hypertension to differences in the etiology, pathogenesis, and prognosis of hypertension is a fruitful area for further investigation. PMID- 2526646 TI - [Changes of cardiac myosin in spontaneously hypertensive rats and control rats, during the various stages of development of essential arterial hypertension]. AB - The aim of this research was to assess left ventricular myosin alterations of Sh, rats during the various phases in which primitive hypertension developed. Two groups of animals were examined: one comprised spontaneously hypertension rats (Shr) and the other controls. Both groups were studied from the 5th to 31st week of life. The Shrs became hypertensive at 9 weeks of age. The animals were sacrificed at: 5-7-9-12-16-24-31 weeks of age. The left ventricles were separated from their hearts and native myosin in non dissociated conditions was then obtained by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis; heavy chains and light chains were separated with S.D.S. One of the findings showed that in the control rats the myosin iso-enzyme V1 always prevailed over the myosin iso-enzyme V3 during all the stages of life examined. In the Shrs, starting from the iso-enzyme V3 increased proportionally. The heavy chains showed the same behavior as the native protein while there were no significant differences for the light chains in both groups of animals. In conclusion, our findings show that the structural and biochemical compensation variations which several authors have demonstrated in other conditions of experimental hypertension occur in Sh rats as well. PMID- 2526648 TI - Validity of messages from quadriplegic persons with cerebral palsy. AB - Interpreting gestures from retarded, nonvocal subjects is scientifically risky. Investigators must construe the subject's meaning without reference to an external validity measure. A procedure was devised in which message content was provided to nonvocal, severely palsied quadriplegic subjects in advance. Subjects' responses were limited to yes/no gestures. Another investigator elicited the messages without prior knowledge of their content. Results, which indicated reasonably high correspondence between stimulus messages and messages elicited, suggest that such subjects can present the content of their own phenomenal field accurately and that investigators' interpretations need not be considered imaginary. PMID- 2526647 TI - A cluster analysis of institutionalized mentally retarded individuals. AB - The scores of two samples of 200 subjects each on five factors of a measure of adaptive behavior were subjected to cluster analysis using two hierarchical agglomerative clustering methods. Three clusters were found that proved stable across clustering methods, subject samples, and time points 3 years apart. In addition, cluster membership was shown to be meaningfully associated with a number of demographic characteristics and neurological and sensory handicaps. The three-cluster solution thus possesses some desirable features, but its practical utility remains to be demonstrated. PMID- 2526649 TI - Three procedures for increasing vocal response to therapist prompt in infants and children with Down syndrome. AB - The relative effectiveness of three procedures for increasing vocal response to prompt in 15 preschool children with Down syndrome was compared. The procedures were positive reinforcement only, positive reinforcement combined with light dimming, and positive reinforcement combined with visual screening. All procedures produced a significant increase in percentage of response to prompt over baseline, however, light-dimming and screening, when combined with positive reinforcement, were both significantly more effective than positive reinforcement alone. Implications for increasing early vocal interaction in children with Down syndrome and other developmental delays were discussed. PMID- 2526650 TI - Construct validity of the adapted Questionnaire on Resources and Stress--short form. AB - The concurrent validity of the adapted version of Holroyd's (1982) short form of the Questionnaire on Resources and Stress (QRS) was examined with a sample of 103 mothers of children with mild to severe disabilities. A correlation matrix was generated using the QRS adapted short form total, its seven component factors, and six criterion measures. Results revealed significant relations among the criterion measures and their target factors as well as concurrence for the internal validity of the instrument. PMID- 2526651 TI - ATP synthase from bovine mitochondria: complementary DNA sequence of the mitochondrial import precursor of the gamma-subunit and the genomic sequence of the mature protein. AB - The gamma-subunit of mitochondrial ATP synthase is part of the extrinsic membrane sector of the enzyme F1-ATPase. It is a nuclear gene product. Complementary DNA clones encoding a precursor of the protein have been isolated from a bovine library. The initial partial clone was identified with a mixture of 32 synthetic oligonucleotides designed from the known protein sequence (Walker et al., 1985), and this isolate was then used to screen the library again in order to find a complete cDNA. The DNA sequence of a clone that encodes the entire mature protein has been established, and the deduced protein sequence agrees exactly with that determined by direct sequence analysis of protein isolated from bovine hearts (Walker et al., 1985). At the 3' ends of two independently isolated clones, alternative polyadenylation sites have been observed; otherwise, the DNA sequences of the clones are concordant. In common with many other mitochondrial proteins encoded in nuclear genes, the deduced protein sequence has an N-terminal extension that is absent from the mature protein. These presequences direct the protein to its appropriate mitochondrial compartment and are removed during the import process. The cDNA clone has been employed to isolate bovine genomic clones containing the gene for the gamma-subunit. From them, the DNA sequence has been established of a region encoding the mature protein and six amino acids in the presequence, but not the remainder of the proposed import sequence. This sequence extends over almost 10 kb and is divided into eight exons. Intron B between exons I and II contains a sequence that is related to long interspersed repetitive elements (LINEs) that have been described in other mammals. Human LINEs are usually flanked by directly repeated sequences with a poly(A) tract at their 3' ends, and these features are present in the bovine LINE which is truncated. This sequence contains an open reading frame encoding part of a protein that is closely related to a protein encoded in mouse LINEs, to reverse transcriptase, and to DNA binding proteins. We have also made a preliminary investigation by DNA hybridization of the number of sequences related to the bovine gene in both the bovine and human genomes. Under the experimental conditions employed, one fragment hybridized in digests of bovine DNA, and two to four bands were detected in digests of human DNA; these latter fragments have originated from either expressed genes or pseudogenes.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2526652 TI - An infrared spectroscopic study of the interactions of carbohydrates with dried proteins. AB - Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy was used to characterize the interaction of stabilizing carbohydrates with dried proteins. Freeze-drying of trehalose, lactose, and myo-inositol with lysozyme resulted in substantial alterations of the infrared spectra of the dried carbohydrates. In the fingerprint region (900 1500 cm-1), there were large shifts in the frequencies of bands, a decrease in absorbance, and a loss of band splitting. These effects mimic those of water on hydrated trehalose. Bands assigned to hydroxyl stretching modes (around 3350 cm 1) were decreased in intensity and shifted to higher frequencies in the presence of the protein. In complementary experiments, it was found that dehydration induced shifts in the positions of amide I and amide II bands for lysozyme could be partially and fully reversed, respectively, when the protein was freeze-dried in the presence of either trehalose or lactose. In addition, the carboxylate band, which was not detectable in the protein dried without the sugar, was apparent when these sugars were present. myo-Inositol was less effective at shifting the amide bands, and the carboxylate band was not detected in the presence of this carbohydrate. Also tested was the concentration dependency of the carbohydrates' influence on the position of the amide II band for dried lysozyme. The results showed that the ability of a given concentration of a carbohydrate to shift this band back toward the position noted with the hydrated protein coincided, at least in the extreme cases, with the capacity of that same level of carbohydrate to preserve the activity of rabbit skeletal muscle phosphofructokinase during freeze-drying.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526653 TI - Conformational transitions in the calcium adenosinetriphosphatase studied by time resolved fluorescence resonance energy transfer. AB - We have used time-resolved fluorescence to study proposed conformational transitions in the Ca-ATPase in skeletal sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR). Resonance energy transfer was used to measure distances between the binding sites of 5-[[2 [(iodoacetyl)amino]ethyl]amino]naphthalene-1-sulfonic acid (IAEDANS) and fluorescein 5-isothiocyanate (FITC) as a function of conditions proposed to affect the enzyme's conformation. When 1.0 +/- 0.15 IAEDANS is bound per Ca ATPase, most (76 +/- 4%) of the probes have an excited-state lifetime (tau) of 18.6 +/- 0.5 ns, and the remainder have a lifetime of 2.5 +/- 0.9 ns. When FITC is bound to a specific site on each IAEDANS-labeled enzyme, most of the long lifetime component is quenched into two short-lifetime components, indicating energy transfer that corresponds to two donor-acceptor distances. About one-third of the quenched population has a lifetime tau = 11.1 +/- 2.5 ns, corresponding to a transfer efficiency E = 0.40 +/- 0.07 and a donor-acceptor distance R1 = 52 +/- 3 A. The remaining two-thirds exhibit lifetimes in the range of 1.2-4.2 ns, corresponding to a second distance 31 A less than or equal to R2 less than or equal to 40 A. Addition of Ca2+ (in the micromolar to millimolar range), or vanadate (to produce a phosphoenzyme analogue), had no effect on the donor acceptor distances. Addition of decavanadate results in the quenching of IAEDANS fluorescence but has no effect on the energy-transfer distance.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526654 TI - Isolation and characterization of the N-terminal 23-kilodalton fragment of myosin subfragment 1. AB - The 23-kDa N-terminal tryptic fragment was isolated from the heavy chain of rabbit skeletal myosin subfragment 1 (S-1). The heavy-chain fragments were dissociated by guanidine hydrochloride following limited trypsinolysis, and the 23-kDa fragment was isolated by gel filtration and ion-exchange chromatography. Finally, the fragment was renatured by removing the denaturants. The CD spectrum of the renatured fragment shows the presence of ordered structure. The tryptophan fluorescence emission spectrum of the fragment is considerably shifted to the red upon adding guanidine hydrochloride which indicates that the tryptophans are located in relatively hydrophobic environments. The two 23-kDa tryptophans, unlike the rest of the S-1 tryptophans, are fully accessible to acrylamide as indicated by fluorescence quenching. The isolated 23-kDa fragment cosediments with F-actin in the ultracentrifuge and significantly increases the light scattering of actin in solution which indicates actin binding. The binding is rather tight (Kd = 0.1 microM) and ionic strength dependent (decreasing with increasing ionic strength). ATP, pyrophosphate, and ADP dissociate the 23-kDa actin complex with decreasing effectiveness. The isolated 23-kDa fragment does not have ATPase activity; however, it inhibits the actin-activated ATPase activity of S-1 by competing presumably with S-1 for binding sites on actin. F Actin binds to the 23-kDa fragment immobilized on the nitrocellulose membrane. The fragment was further cleaved, and one of the resulting peptides, containing the 130-204 stretch of residues, was found to bind actin on the nitrocellulose membrane, indicating that this region of the 23-kDa fragment participates in forming an actin binding site. PMID- 2526655 TI - Characterization and differential expression of human vascular smooth muscle myosin light chain 2 isoform in nonmuscle cells. AB - The 20-kDa regulatory myosin light chain (MLC), also known as MLC-2, plays an important role in the regulation of both smooth muscle and nonmuscle cell contractile activity. Phosphorylation of MLC-2 by the enzyme MLC kinase increases the actin-activated myosin ATPase activity and thereby regulates the contractile activity. We have isolated and characterized an MLC-2 cDNA corresponding to the human vascular smooth muscle MLC-2 isoform from a cDNA library derived from umbilical artery RNA. The translation of the in vitro synthesized mRNA, corresponding to the cDNA insert, in a rabbit reticulocyte lysate results in the synthesis of a 20,000-dalton protein that is immunoreactive with antibodies raised against purified chicken gizzard MLC-2. The derived amino acid sequence of the putative human smooth muscle MLC-2 shows only three amino acid differences when compared to chicken gizzard MLC-2. However, comparison with the human cardiac isoform reveals only 48% homology. Blot hybridizations and S1 nuclease analysis indicate that the human smooth muscle MLC-2 isoform is expressed restrictively in smooth muscle tissues such as colon and uterus and in some, but not all, nonmuscle cell lines. Previously reported MLC-2 cDNA from rat aortic smooth muscle cells in culture is ubiquitously expressed in all muscle and nonmuscle cells, and it was suggested that both smooth muscle and nonmuscle MLC-2 proteins are identical and are probably encoded by the same gene. In contrast, the human smooth muscle MLC-2 cDNA that we have characterized from an intact smooth muscle tissue is not expressed in skeletal and cardiac muscles and also in a number of nonmuscle cells.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526656 TI - Properties of acid ceramidase from human spleen. AB - We have characterised ceramidase activity in extracts of human spleen from control subjects and from patients with Gaucher disease. In Triton X-100 extracts of control spleens, a broad pH optimum of pH 3.5-5.0 was found; no ceramidase activity was detectable at neutral or alkaline pH. About 45-60% of acid ceramidase could be extracted from spleen without detergents, but for complete extraction, Triton X-100 was required. For the radiolabelled substrate oleoylsphingosine, a Km of 0.22 +/- 0.09 mM and a Vmax of 57 +/- 11 nmol/h per mg protein was calculated in spleen from a control subject. Flat-bed isoelectric focussing in the presence of Triton X-100 revealed a pI of 6.0-7.0 for acid ceramidase; similar values were found for sphingomyelinase and glucerebrosidase. HPLC-gel filtration indicated that in the presence of Triton X-100, acid ceramidase has an Mr of about 100 kDa. In the absence of detergents, the enzyme forms high-molecular-weight aggregates. Similar aggregation behaviour was observed for sphingomyelinase, while the elution of beta-hexosaminidase was not affected by detergents. The elution profile of glucocerebrosidase was only slightly altered by Triton X-100. There was no difference in the properties of acid ceramidase present in spleen from control subjects and from patients with type I Gaucher disease. PMID- 2526657 TI - Characterization of a vacuolar proton ATPase in Dictyostelium discoideum. AB - Of the total ATPase activity in homogenates of the ameba, Dictyostelium discoideum, approximately one-third was inhibited at pH 7 by 25 microM 7-chloro-4 nitrobenzo-2-oxa-1,3-diazole (NBD-Cl). Upon isopycnic sucrose density gradient centrifugation, the bulk of the NBD-CI-sensitive ATPase activity was recovered in a major membrane fraction with a broad peak at 1.16 g/ml, well-resolved from markers for plasma membranes, mitochondria, lysosomes and contractile vacuoles. The gradient peak had a specific activity of 0.5 mumol/min per mg protein. The activity was half-inhibited by 1 microM silicotungstate, 2 microM diisothiocyanatostilbene disulfonate (DIDS), 2.5 microM dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCCD), 4 microM NBD-CI and 20 microM N-ethylmaleimide (NEM) but was resistant to conventional inhibitors of mitochondrial and plasma membrane ATPase. That this ATPase activity constituted a proton pump was shown by the MgATP-dependent uptake and quenching of Acridine orange fluorescence by partially purified vacuoles. The Acridine orange uptake was specifically blocked by the aforementioned inhibitors. The generation of proton electrochemical gradients was suggested by the stimulation of enzyme activity by protonophores (fatty acids) and cation exchangers (nigericin). Uncoupling stimulated the ATPase activity as much as 20 fold, revealing an unusually high impermeability of the membranes to protons. ATPase activity was also stimulated by halide ions, apparently through a parallel conductance pathway. Under a variety of sensitive test conditions, the reverse enzyme reaction (i.e., incorporation of 32Pi into ATP) was not detected. We conclude that this major H+-ATPase serves to acidify the abundant prelysosomal vacuoles found in D. discoideum (Padh et al. (1989) J. Cell Biol. 108, 865-874). The finding of a vacuolar H+-ATPase in a protist suggests the ubiquity of this enzyme among the eukaryotic kingdoms. PMID- 2526658 TI - A study to see whether phosphatidylserine, partial proteolysis and EGTA substitute for calmodulin during activation of the Ca2+-ATPase from red cell membranes by ATP. AB - (1) The effects of treatments that mimic calmodulin in increasing the apparent affinity for Ca2+ were tested to see whether, like calmodulin, they also change the activation of the Ca2+-ATPase from human red cell membranes by ATP at the low affinity site. (2) Short incubations with either trypsin or acidic phospholipids such as phosphatidylserine increased the apparent affinity for ATP at the low affinity site. (3) Under conditions in which it increased the apparent affinity of the Ca2+-ATPase for Ca2+, EGTA failed to change the activation by ATP. (4) As in calmodulin-bound Ca2+-ATPase, compound 48/80 inhibited the activity of the enzyme in the presence of phosphatidylserine by lowering the apparent affinity for ATP at the low-affinity site, leaving the maximum velocity of the enzyme unaltered. (5) Compound 48/80 also inhibited the Ca2+-ATPase after partial proteolysis, but in this case it lowered the maximum activity, leaving the apparent affinity of the enzyme for ATP at the low-affinity site unaltered. (6) Inhibition of the Ca2+-ATPase by compound 48/80 in the absence of calmodulin suggests that the inhibitor can act directly on the enzyme. PMID- 2526659 TI - The relationship of extraneous movements to lumbar paraspinal muscle activity: implications for EMG biofeedback training applications to low back pain patients. AB - Within recent years clinicians and researchers have applied paraspinal EMG biofeedback procedures during static and dynamic movement retraining of chronic low back pain patients. Most of these applications make use of surface electromyography, an approach complicated by the fact that the erector spinae muscles are deeply situated. This descriptive study reveals that extraneous movements, such as neck flexion and pelvic rotation, can elicit profound activity from percutaneously placed EMG electrodes while little change is seen at the skin surface. The implications of these observations for the use of EMG feedback to remediate low back pain are discussed. PMID- 2526660 TI - Subunit flow in F-actin under steady-state conditions. Application of a novel method to determination of the rate of subunit exchange of F-actin at the terminals. AB - We developed a novel method to determine the subunit exchange rates of F-actin at its terminals under quasi-steady-state conditions by using a powerful fluorescent probe, N-(1-pyrenyl)iodoacetamide. The applicability of the method was checked with regard to both theoretical and experimental aspects. We determined the rates of subunit exchange of F-actin and F-actin-tropomyosin complex under various ionic conditions. We found that: (i) KCl accelerated both on and off rates at each end, and lowered the critical concentration of the P-end while the critical concentration of the B-end was not affected; (ii) binding of tropomyosin drastically reduced the subunit flow in F-actin by suppressing the off rate principally of the P-end. It is therefore believed that tropomyosin exerts an anisotropic constraint on F-actin and regulates its dynamic polarity. PMID- 2526661 TI - Relaxation effects in the gel electrophoresis of DNA in intermittent fields. AB - The electrophoretic mobility of restriction fragments of lambda DNA in agarose gels declines if the field is intermittent rather than continuous, with a greater effect on the longer fragments. The changes are compatible with the assumption of two exponential relaxation processes for field-dependent configurational changes, one when the field is turned on and another when it terminates. The length dependence at the extrapolated limit of mobility for short pulses with long intervals corresponds closely to the simple inverse proportionality to length expected from theoretical considerations when the molecular configuration is not affected by the electric field. Simple intermittent fields would allow separation of longer molecules than can ordinarily be resolved. The relaxation times for both the change in conformation imposed by the field and the return to field-free conformation vary as approximately the second power of the length of the molecule, independent of the salt concentration or field strength and varying only slightly with gel density. These relations are not in good agreement with properties expected from reputation theory, and they suggest that a different mechanism must be invoked for the electrophoretic migration of long DNA molecules at ordinary values of field strength. PMID- 2526662 TI - Downregulation of c-fms gene expression in human monocytes treated with phorbol esters and colony-stimulating factor 1. AB - The colony-stimulating factor-1 (CSF-1) regulates survival, growth, and differentiation of monocytes by binding to a single class of high-affinity receptors. The CSF-1 receptor is identical to the product of the c-fms protooncogene. The present studies monitored the effects of TPA and CSF-1 on c fms gene expression in human monocytes. The results demonstrate that TPA downmodulates the constitutive expression of c-fms mRNA to low but detectable levels. Treatment of human monocytes with TPA was similarly associated with decreases in levels of the 138- and 125-Kd c-fms-encoded proteins. However, the kinetics of c-fms protein downmodulation indicated independent effects of TPA on c-fms expression at the RNA and protein levels. Furthermore, c-fms protein levels subsequently recovered despite persistently low levels of c-fms mRNA. Although previous studies demonstrated that c-fms protein is down-regulated in the presence of CSF-1, the present results indicate that CSF-1 also downregulates levels of c-fms mRNA. Moreover, the results indicate that CSF-1 increases protein kinase C activity in the membrane fraction. Together, these findings suggest that c-fms gene expression is differentially regulated at both the RNA and protein levels after activation of protein kinase C in human monocytes treated with TPA and CSF-1. PMID- 2526663 TI - Familial protein S deficiency with a variant protein S molecule in plasma and platelets. AB - A protein S deficient family presenting a variant protein S molecule in plasma and platelets is described. The propositus, age 20, and two brothers suffered from venous thrombotic disease. The propositus, the only family member studied while taking oral anticoagulants, had a protein S antigen (ag) level of 17% and undetectable activity. As demonstrated by immunoblotting both the propositus and one clinically affected brother (42% ag, 7% activity) presented variant protein S molecules of 65,000 molecular weight (mol wt) while the other clinically affected brother (64% ag, 11% activity) had only protein S with normal electrophoretic mobility of 70,000 mol wt. The mother had normal protein S levels (93% ag, 100% activity) but had both normal and variant protein S molecules and based on her functional protein S data a normal anticoagulant activity of the variant molecule is suggested. One asymptomatic but protein S deficient sister (68% ag, 9% activity) as well as the asymptomatic protein S deficient father (59% ag, 10% activity) had only protein S molecules of 70,000 mol wt. The variant protein S bound to C4b-binding protein in plasma, and differed from normal protein S in carbohydrate content. Platelets of each family member contained the same immunoblotting pattern of normal and variant protein S forms as found in plasma, consistent with the hypothesis that protein S gene expression involves codominant expression of two alleles that is similar in cells that control the synthesis of both platelet and plasma forms of protein S. PMID- 2526664 TI - Rearrangement and expression of T-cell receptor delta genes in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemias. AB - We have analyzed T-cell receptor delta (TcR-delta) gene rearrangement and transcription in appropriately phenotyped mononuclear cells derived from 12 patients with T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL). The T-ALL cells were also analyzed for rearrangement and transcription of the T-cell receptor(TcR) beta and gamma genes as well as for the presence of TcR-alpha gene transcripts. Four T-ALLs expressed TcR-gamma delta at the cell surface, while three expressed TcR-alpha beta. The other five T-ALLs did not express a TcR-CD3 complex on their cell membrane. The TcR-gamma delta + T-ALL had rearranged both TcR-delta gene alleles and contained mature 2.2 and 1.5 kb TcR-delta transcripts. In one case, immature 1.9 and 1.2 kb TcR-delta transcripts were also found. Furthermore they contained mature TcR-gamma mRNA, mature or immature TcR-beta mRNA, but no TcR alpha mRNA. The three TcR-alpha beta + T-ALLs contained mature alpha and beta transcripts, but lacked TcR-delta transcripts as a result of deletion of both TcR delta gene alleles. These data are in line with a mutually exclusive expression of TcR-alpha and -delta genes, which may be important to ensure the presence of only one type of TcR per T cell. One of the five CD3- T-ALLs had germline TcR beta, gamma, and delta genes. The other four CD3- T-ALLs had rearranged their TcR beta, gamma, and delta genes and contained immature 1.9 and 1.2 kb TcR-delta gene transcripts. Remarkably, one of these T-ALLs also contained TcR-alpha transcripts in addition to the immature TcR-delta transcripts, which was in line with the deletion of one TcR-delta gene allele and rearrangement of the other allele. This suggests that prevention of dual receptor expression may not only be regulated by the presence of germline TcR-alpha genes in TcR-gamma delta + cells or by deletion of both TcR-delta gene alleles in TcR-alpha beta + cells, but also via other regulation mechanisms. Finally, our data indicated that the combinatorial repertoire of the TcR-delta genes is limited, which has also been described for the TcR-gamma genes. PMID- 2526665 TI - The chromosome translocation (11;14)(p13;q11) associated with T-cell acute lymphocytic leukemia: an 11p13 breakpoint cluster region. AB - The translocation (11;14)(p13;q11) was observed in karyotypes of leukemic cells from a 3-year-old boy with T-cell acute lymphocytic leukemia (T-ALL). Since this translocation is a recurrent marker of T-ALL, we undertook to investigate its mode of formation and role in leukemogenesis. The cytogenetic breakpoint on chromosome 14 occurs in 14q11, the same band wherein lies the T-cell receptor alpha/delta chain gene; and Southern hybridization analysis of peripheral blood and bone marrow DNA uncovered a tumor-specific rearrangement in the D delta-J delta region of this locus. DNA encompassing the rearrangement was isolated by molecular cloning, and further analysis revealed it to be the t(11;14)(p13;q11) junction. Nucleotide sequence determination of the junction indicates that the 14q11 breakpoint occurs immediately adjacent to the D delta 2 gene segment. Hence, the translocation arose as an aberrant rearrangement between the downstream recombination signal of D delta 2 and a pseudo recombination signal adjacent to the chromosome 11 breakpoint. Finally, comparison of the breakpoint in band 11p13 with those of other translocations (11;14)(p13;q11) identified a breakpoint cluster region of approximately 1.2 kilobase-pairs (kb), alterations of which may promote the development of T-ALL. PMID- 2526666 TI - Histologic typing of non-Hodgkin's lymphomas by in situ hybridization with DNA probes of oncogenes. AB - Expression of six proto-oncogenes (fos, myc, myb, Ki-ras, Ha-ras, and N-ras) in 43 cases of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma was analyzed by means of in situ hybridization. Biotinylated DNA probes of the six oncogenes and those of immunoglobulin H (IgH) gene and T-cell receptor beta (TCR beta) chain gene were used. The results of in situ hybridization performed under blind conditions by IgH gene and TCR beta chain gene probes were compatible with those of typing by cell surface markers. The nuclear protein-related proto-oncogenes, fos, myc, and myb, were expressed in about 70% to 80% of all cases regardless of phenotype, histology, or histologic grade. On the contrary, genes of ras family were expressed in more limited numbers of cases except for the Ki-ras gene, which was more frequently expressed by cases of the T-cell immunophenotype with a high malignancy grade. The results of dot hybridization with RNA extracted from some cases were compatible with those of in situ hybridization, further demonstrating the specificity of in situ hybridization. PMID- 2526667 TI - Decreased accessibility of platelet-bound fibrinogen to antibody and enzyme probes. AB - The binding of fibrinogen to platelets is a multiphasic process leading to apparently nonreversible associations between fibrinogen and stimulated platelets. To further investigate changes in platelet-fibrinogen interactions, the present study examined the accessibility of platelet-bound fibrinogen and its GPIIb-IIIa receptor to antibody and enzyme probes as a function of time after platelet stimulation with adenosine diphosphate (ADP). Whereas only minimal changes in fibrinogen and 10E5 binding were observed within 60 minutes after platelet stimulation and equilibrium fibrinogen binding, the binding of polyclonal antifibrinogen antibodies decreased significantly (75% +/- 13%, mean +/- SD, n = 9). Similar decreases were noted with rabbit antifibrinogen Fab and F(ab')2 fragments. In addition, plasmin (32 mU/mL) added to platelets five minutes compared with 60 minutes after equilibrium fibrinogen binding dissociated 52% +/- 12% compared with 33% +/- 7% of platelet-bound fibrinogen in five minutes, and 83% +/- 15% compared with 66% +/- 14% of bound fibrinogen in 15 minutes. No difference in plasmin cleavage products was observed, however, by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacryl-amide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). Complete fibrinogen dissociation occurred 30 minutes after plasmin addition, confirming that fibrinogen was not internalized. In contrast, dissociation of platelet-bound fibrinogen by chymotrypsin was less affected by time after equilibrium fibrinogen binding, and minimal changes in antifibrinogen antibody recognition and plasmin induced dissociation of fibrinogen bound to stimulated but glutaraldehyde-fixed platelets were observed. The data suggest that ADP-induced fibrinogen binding to fresh platelets is accompanied by progressive rearrangements of fibrinogen on the platelet surface. PMID- 2526668 TI - Leukemic B-cell precursors constitutively express functional receptors for human interleukin-1. AB - This study analyzes the expression of functional interleukin-1 (IL-1) receptors on leukemic B-cell precursors (BCPs) from B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (BCP ALL) patients. We first investigated the specific binding of 125I labeled recombinant IL-1 (125I-rIL-1) (4 x 10(17) cpm/mol) to fresh marrow blasts from 11 BCP ALL patients. In five of 11 cases, the binding of 125I-rIL-1 was significantly blocked by excess cold rIL-1. In these five cases, the cell-bound radioactivity ranged from 146 cpm/10(6) cells to 2,412 cpm/10(6) cells (mean +/- SE = 782 +/- 414 cpm/10(6) cells), indicating that 4 to 60 femtomols (mean +/- SE = 20 +/- 10 femtomols) of 125I-rIL-1 specifically bound per 10(7) cells. The estimated number of 125I-rIL-1 molecules bound per cell ranged from 219 to 3,618 (mean +/- SE = 1173 +/- 621). In all five cases, BCP colony formation was stimulated by 10 ng/mL (570 femtomolar) rIL-1, and the background-subtracted colony numbers ranged from 130 to 298 (mean +/- SE = 226 +/- 31). In contrast, no stimulation was observed in six cases that showed no significant 125I-rIL-1 binding. Hence, there was a high correlation between 125I-rIL-1 binding and IL-1 responsiveness, indicating that functional IL-1 receptors were detected in ligand binding assays. Scatchard plot analysis of the specific equilibrium binding data for leukemic BCPs from two IL-1-responsive BCP ALL cases yielded straight linear regression lines, indicating the existence of a single class of 132 to 154 high affinity IL-1 receptors/cell. The apparent affinity constants (Ka) values ranged from 5.2 x 10(9) mol/L-1 to 1.2 x 10(10) mol/L-1. Notably, the concentrations of IL-1 required for half-maximal receptor occupancy (kd = 83 pmol/L to 190 pmol/L) were approximately three orders of magnitude higher than those needed to elicit a half-maximal proliferative response of leukemic BCPs in colony assays (0.1 to 1.0 ng/mL = 5.7 to 57 femtomolar), indicating that only a small fraction of IL-1 receptors need to be occupied to stimulate leukemic BCPs. Notably, IL-1 unresponsive leukemic BCPs from one BCP ALL patient and two BCP ALL cell lines (REH, KM-3) did not exhibit any significant IL-1 binding (less than 10 IL-1 binding sites/cell), and two additional IL-1 unresponsive BCP ALL cell lines (NALM-6, HPB-NULL) expressed only 24 to 54 IL-1 binding sites/cell with a Ka of 7.8 to 9.8 x 10(9) mol/L-1.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2526669 TI - Inhibition of vascular endothelial cell prostacyclin synthesis by plasmin. AB - Vascular endothelial cells (EC) play an active role in the synthesis and assembly of components of the fibrinolytic system and the generation of the major fibrinolytic protease plasmin. However, the reciprocal effects of plasmin on EC function have not been previously examined. We have studied the actions of plasmin on the production of prostacyclin (PGI2) by cultured human umbilical vein (HUVEC) and bovine aortic (BAEC) endothelial cells. Plasmin causes little or no direct stimulation of PGI2 formation by EC. Preincubation of EC with plasmin, however, produces a time- and concentration-dependent inhibition of ionophore A23187-, thrombin-, and histamine-induced PGI2 synthesis; a smaller inhibitory effect on arachidonate- and PGH2-induced PGI2 synthesis is found. Incubation of HUVEC or BAEC with a physiologic concentration of plasminogen (180 micrograms/mL) and recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) generates tPA dose-dependent plasmin activity that exceeds that generated in the absence of EC. In the presence of plasminogen, tPA also causes a tPA dose-dependent inhibition of thrombin- and ionophore A23187-stimulated PGI2 production. PGI2 inhibitory plasmin activity is generated within the concentration range of tPA achieved in plasma during pharmacologic therapy with tPA. These findings suggest that vascular endothelial cells not only regulate activation of the fibrinolytic system but may also be targets of plasmin action on PGI2 synthesis in the modulation of hemostasis and thrombosis. PMID- 2526670 TI - Monocyte Fc gamma receptor recognition of cell-bound and aggregated IgG. AB - Monocyte and macrophage Fc gamma receptors are important components in the recognition of IgG-coated cells and IgG-containing immune complexes. Two proteins have been identified on human peripheral blood monocytes that can function as Fc gamma receptors, Fc gamma RI (70 Kd) and Fc gamma RII (40 Kd). We studied the role of Fc gamma RI and Fc gamma RII on human monocytes by examining their binding of IgG-sensitized cells (human IgG anti-D-coated RBCs and rabbit IgG sensitized sheep RBCs) and their binding of human trimeric IgG. To examine the function of monocyte Fc gamma RII, we used an anti-Fc gamma RII monoclonal antibody (MoAb) that competes for the Fc gamma RII ligand binding site. Preincubation of monocytes with saturating concentrations of anti-Fc gamma RII MoAb did not alter the recognition of IgG (anti-D)-sensitized human RBCs by monocytes. Furthermore, ligand-binding studies demonstrated that anti-Fc gamma RII antibody altered neither the number nor the affinity of monocyte-binding sites for human IgG trimer. Anti-Fc gamma RII inhibited monocyte binding of rabbit IgG-sensitized sheep RBCs, but only at low ionic strength or temperature when increased numbers of monocyte Fc gamma RII were expressed. At low ionic strength and 4 degrees C, anti-Fc gamma RII also partially inhibited monocyte binding of human trimeric IgG. Thus, monocyte Fc gamma RII does not appear to recognize IgG-sensitized RBCs or trimeric IgG at physiologic temperatures and ionic strength. The data suggest that Fc gamma RI is the primary Fc gamma receptor on monocytes involved in the binding of IgG (anti-D)-sensitized erythrocytes and low mol wt complexes of IgG. PMID- 2526672 TI - Cellular changes during the infusion of high dose intravenous immunoglobulin. AB - With the ever widening group of autoimmune conditions that are beneficially affected by infusions of high dose immunoglobulin the possible mechanisms of action of such therapy appear increasingly complex. Fc mediated blockade of the mononuclear phagocyte system is an acknowledged early effect. This is, however, accompanied by a decrease of neutrophil counts which suggests that IgG binding to the neutrophil may be a mechanism of action. The decrease of neutrophil counts is transient but in immune thrombocytopenia is inversely proportional to the platelet response observed. In parallel to the effect on the neutrophil there are changes in the lymphocyte subsets with reversal of the T helper/suppressor ratio and alterations in the individual cellular constituents of each subset that correlate with the clinical response. The observed changes in B cell numbers and function suggest that T dependent and independent antibody production is effected by intravenous immunoglobulin. It is increasingly clear that in ITP at least the clinical response to IV IgG is a summation of several cellular events and their balance reflects the ultimate outcome. It may eventually be possible to use these observations to predict the likely outcome in the individual patient of this mode of therapy. PMID- 2526674 TI - Acne in schoolchildren: no longer a concern for dermatologists. AB - OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence and severity of acne among schoolchildren in Glasgow. DESIGN: Secondary schools in Glasgow were divided by postcode into five socioeconomic cluster groups. Different numbers of schools were selected at random from the five groups to ensure proportional representation. One class from each registration year of the chosen schools was selected at random and the whole class recruited into the study. SETTING: 15 Secondary schools in Glasgow. SUBJECTS: 2014 Randomly selected schoolchildren aged 12-17 (5% of total secondary school roll). INTERVENTIONS: None. END POINT: Assessment of facial acne by two independent examiners by a recognised acne scoring system. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: The prevalence of acne in boys increased from 40% (75/189) at age 12 to 95% (108/114) at age 16, and in girls it increased from 61% (114/187) at age 12 to 83% (136/164) at age 16. On a scale of 0 to 10 only 18 boys (1.8%) and three girls (0.3%) had grades of acne of 1.0 or greater; most of the pupils had grade 0.05-0.375 (minimal) acne. Nine per cent of boys (88/973) and 14% of girls (145/1041) had visited their general practitioner specifically for advice on and treatment for acne; only five pupils (0.3%) had been referred to a dermatologist. CONCLUSIONS: Both the prevalence and severity of acne have decreased over the past 20 years. This has probably been due to improvement of treatment for acne by primary care doctors and the greater availability and use of over the counter preparations for acne. PMID- 2526675 TI - Allergic contact dermatitis caused by transdermal hyoscine. PMID- 2526673 TI - Dichloromethylenebisphosphonate (Cl2MBP) inhibits bone resorption through injury to osteoclasts that resorb Cl2MBP-coated bone. AB - Dichloromethylenebisphosphonate (Cl2MBP, formerly Cl2MDP) inhibits bone resorption in vivo and in vitro. The mechanism by which it inhibits osteoclastic bone resorption has not been established. To investigate this, osteoclasts were isolated from rat long bone and incubated with Cl2MBP (10(-9)-10(-5) M) on bone slices. Bone resorption was assessed as plan area resorbed after 6 and 24 h by scanning electron microscopy. Although Cl2MBP inhibited bone resorption in the first 6 h of culture, inhibition was more marked in the incubation period between 6 and 24 h. This pattern of accelerating inhibition is unlike the pattern we have observed using other resorption-inhibitors, and suggested resorption-mediated osteoclast injury. In keeping with this, we found reduced numbers of osteoclasts, and morphological features of cell injury and degeneration of osteoclasts, after incubation with Cl2MBP on bone slices. Bone seemed to be an essential component in Cl2MBP-mediated injury, since osteoclast numbers and morphology on plastic coverslips were unaffected by the bisphosphonate. Moreover, bone slices preincubated with Cl2MBP showed similar effects on resorption and morphology to cultures in in which osteoclasts on bone were continuously immersed in Cl2MBP. Neither non-resorptive cells (macrophages, UMR 106 cells), nor osteoclasts prevented from resorption by calcitonin, showed evidence of cytotoxicity after incubation on bone slices with Cl2MBP. These results suggest that even relatively high concentrations of Cl2MBP in the fluid phase do not affect osteoclasts, nor does contact with Cl2MBP-coated bone surfaces, but that injury to osteoclasts, and a consequent reduction in bone resorption, occurs when osteoclasts excavate bone surfaces upon which Cl2MBP is adsorbed. PMID- 2526676 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide in the fetus. PMID- 2526671 TI - Clinical disorders of fibrinolysis: a critical review. AB - Much progress has recently been made in understanding the biochemistry and physiology of endogenous fibrinolysis. As a result, a better understanding of the mechanisms and clinical consequences of disordered fibrinolysis has emerged. Increased fibrinolytic activity is an uncommon but important cause of hemorrhagic disease. Congenital disorders of fibrinolysis which cause bleeding include increased plasma plasminogen activator activity and deficiency of alpha-2 antiplasmin. Acquired disorders associated with increased fibrinolytic activity and bleeding include liver cirrhosis, amyloidosis, acute promyelocytic leukemia, some solid tumors, and certain snake envenomation syndromes. Increased fibrinolysis is important to recognize because epsilon-aminocaproic acid (EACA) may be required to prevent or control bleeding. Diminished fibrinolytic activity has been associated with a variety of thrombotic disorders, but a direct cause and-effect relationship has yet to be established. Congenital abnormalities of fibrinolysis associated with thrombosis include plasminogen deficiency, decreased endothelial generation of plasminogen activator activity, and certain abnormal fibrinogens. Thrombosis in these disorders is effectively managed with warfarin. Diminished fibrinolysis has also been reported in "idiopathic" venous thrombosis, oral contraceptive-induced and post-operative venous thrombosis, coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, and thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, but the significance of abnormal fibrinolysis in these disorders is uncertain. Large, prospective studies of fibrinolytic variables as risk factors for vascular and thrombotic disease are needed to determine whether pharmacologic augmentation of impaired fibrinolysis could be useful in the prevention or treatment of these disorders. PMID- 2526677 TI - Slow fluctuations of single unit activities of hippocampal and thalamic neurons in cats. II. Role of serotonin on the stability of neuronal activities. AB - A series of experiments was carried out both in the hippocampal pyramidal and thalamic ventrobasal neurons to investigate the effect of serotonin level in the brain on slow fluctuations of neuronal discharges. Single neuronal activities were recorded in the following two pharmacologically treated states: (1) a 5 hydroxytryptamine depleted state by p-chlorophenylalanine administration (PCPA phase) and (2) a 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine administered state under the PCPA pretreatment (5-MeODMT phase). The slow fluctuations of neuronal activities in the frequency range of 0.02-1.0 Hz in both nuclei were prominent during the PCPA phase and were similar to those during the paradoxical sleep. In contrast, slow fluctuations were suppressed during the 5-MeODMT phase and neuronal activities during this phase were similar to those during slow wave sleep (SWS). The results show that serotonin in the brain definitely plays a role in stabilizing single neuronal activities. PMID- 2526678 TI - Appearance of allergen-induced increases in airway responsiveness only after repeated allergen inhalations in two subjects. AB - Observations in two subjects undergoing three allergen challenges for a drug study suggested 'priming' of the late sequelae, namely allergen-induced increase in airway responsiveness. Both subjects had rhinitis and asthma limited to the ragweed season, near normal out-of-season histamine PC20, and extreme IgE sensitivity to ragweed. Both had an isolated early response with no change in histamine PC20 after the first allergen challenge. Significant (3.5- to 5.8-fold) reductions in histamine PC20 occurred after the second and third allergen challenge in Subject 1, and after the third challenge in Subject 2; this was associated with equivocal 5-8% late responses. Such a 'priming' effect, the prevalence of which is not known, may be important in the pathogenesis of naturally occurring allergic asthma, and in the design of clinical trials involving repeated allergen inhalations. PMID- 2526679 TI - Fragile site expression in families with von Hippel-Lindau disease. AB - Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease is an autosomal dominant disorder that predisposes to diverse tumors including renal cell carcinoma. Six affected and four unaffected subjects from five families were studied to determine the frequency of fragile site expression. Peripheral lymphocyte cultures from each subject were treated with low folate, 5-fluorodeoxyuridine (FUdR), and FUdR plus caffeine for fragile site induction. A site was considered to be fragile if it was expressed at least two times in half of the affected or unaffected subjects. Of the established sites, four were expressed in the unaffected group (3p14, 6p22, 8q22, and Xp22) and six were expressed in the affected group (3p14, 4q31, 5q31, 7q32, Xp22, and Xq22). Only 3p14 and Xp22 were expressed in both groups. There were four new sites: three (3q26, 6p21, 7p15) in the unaffected group and one (16q24) in the affected group. The 3p14 site was expressed twice as frequently in affected versus unaffected subjects. This finding is of interest because of reports of the involvement of 3p14 in hereditary renal cell carcinoma and in VHL. PMID- 2526680 TI - Inhibition by maltose, isomaltose, and nigerose of the synthesis of high molecular-weight D-glucans by the D-glucosyltransferases of Streptococcus sobrinus. AB - Two D-glucosyltransferases are produced by Streptococcus sobrinus C211. One (GTF S) catalyzes the conversion of sucrose into soluble alpha-(1----6)-linked alpha (1----3)-branched D-glucans, and the other (GTF-I), of sucrose into alpha-(1--- 3)-linked alpha-(1----6)-branched D-glucans. These enzymes were studied by using maltose, isomaltose, and nigerose as inhibitors. Maltose and isomaltose were found to be competitive inhibitors of GTF-S, whereas nigerose has no effect on GTF-S activity. The Ki values for maltose and isomaltose were determined to be 11 and 15mM, respectively. Maltose, isomaltose, and nigerose competitively inhibit GTF-I. The Ki values for these inhibitors were found to be approximately 0.8, 2.5, and 15mM, respectively. The inhibitory properties of each disaccharide are interpreted in terms of conformational comparisons with sucrose. PMID- 2526681 TI - Antitumor activity in vitro in chronic myelogenous leukaemia revealed after treating peripheral cells with cytosine arabinoside. AB - Cytosine arabinoside (Ara-C) treatment of peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 12/12 chronic-phase chronic myelogenous leukaemia (CML) patients revealed a proliferative response stimulated by their untreated leukaemic cells. Specific recognition of tumour cells by patients' normal lymphocytes was suggested by the finding that cells of siblings genotypically identical for human leukocyte antigen caused no stimulation. Lymphocytes thus stimulated by tumour cells from one of these patients were cloned by limiting dilution and tested for antileukaemic effects in cytotoxicity and proliferation assays. Cytotoxic lines were isolated that killed autologous CML targets but only a limited number of allogeneic fresh leukaemias or cell lines. These results show that anti-leukaemia effectors can be isolated from chronic-phase CML patients and suggest their potential application in adoptive immunotherapy. PMID- 2526682 TI - The yeast secretory pathway is perturbed by mutations in PMR1, a member of a Ca2+ ATPase family. AB - The genes for two new P-type ATPases, PMR1 and PMR2, have been identified in yeast. A comparison of the deduced sequences of the PMR proteins with other known ion pumps showed that both proteins are very similar to Ca2+ ATPases. PMR1 is identical to SSC1, a gene previously identified by its effect on secretion of some foreign proteins from yeast. Proteins secreted from pmr1 mutants lack the outer chain glycosylation that normally results from passage through the Golgi. Loss of PMR1 function suppresses the lethality of ypt1-1, a mutation that blocks the secretion pathway. These data suggest that PMR1 functions as a Ca2+ pump affecting transit through the secretory pathway. PMID- 2526684 TI - Probing the structure and function of U2 snRNP with antisense oligonucleotides made of 2'-OMe RNA. AB - We have used oligonucleotides made of 2'-OMe RNA to analyze the role of separate domains of U2 snRNA in the splicing process. We show that antisense 2'-OMe RNA oligonucleotides bind efficiently and specifically to U2 snRNP and demonstrate that masking of two separate regions of U2 snRNA can inhibit splicing by affecting different steps in the spliceosome assembly pathway. Masking the 5' terminus of U2 snRNA does not prevent U2 snRNP binding to pre-mRNA but blocks subsequent assembly of a functional spliceosome. By contrast, masking of U2 sequences complementary to the pre-mRNA branch site completely inhibits binding of pre-mRNA. Hybrid formation at the branch site complementary region also triggers a specific change which affects the 5' terminus of U2 snRNA. PMID- 2526683 TI - An N-terminal transformation-governing sequence of SV40 large T antigen contributes to the binding of both p110Rb and a second cellular protein, p120. AB - In addition to Rb and p53, a third cellular protein, p120 in monkey and p118 in human cells, forms a specific complex with SV40 large T antigen (T). p118/120 is not a product of the Rb-gene. As was shown with T/Rb complex formation, the interaction between T and p120 is dependent on the intact nature of a ten residue, transformation-controlling domain in T (residues 105-114). In mouse cells, a readily detectable protein of 115 kd was detected, which, like murine Rb, also forms a stable complex with T. Like p118/120, p115 binding is also dependent on the intact nature of the 105-114 sequence. Given their similar size and T antigen binding sequence dependence, p115 and p118/120 may be products of the same gene in different species. These results suggest that interactions between T and p115/118/120, as well as T and Rb, contribute to the SV40 transforming mechanism. PMID- 2526685 TI - The mechanisms involved in the activation of human natural killer cells by staphylococcal enterotoxin B. AB - The induction of enhanced natural cytotoxicity from human peripheral mononuclear cells by staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) was examined. The activated killer cytotoxicity (AKC) was maximum at 16 hr with 1 mg/ml SEB. The precursor and effector cells of AKC were determined to be primarily CD5 negative, CD8 negative, CD16 positive cells. Monocytes and interleukin-1 played no role in the generation of AKC. However, a major role for interleukin-2 (IL-2) in AKC was shown by the inhibition of AKC when anti-IL-2 antibody or cyclosporin was added to the induction cultures. SEB rapidly induced the production of IL-2 from glass nonadherent cells by 6 hr and reached peak levels by 24 hr (162 U/ml). IL-2 induced by SEB in these induction cultures was preferentially produced by CD16 positive cells. Even though interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) production was induced in these cultures, no role for IFN could be shown in SEB-induced AKC. PMID- 2526686 TI - Collaboration of Th1 and Th2 T cell clones in specific antibody responses: regulation of the IgM response to phosphorylcholine. AB - Carrier (KLH)-specific type 1 T cell clones (Th1), which are defined by secretion of IL-2 and IFN-gamma but not IL-4, and type 2 (Th2) clones, which secrete IL-4, but not IL-2 or IFN-gamma, have been isolated and analyzed for their ability to collaborate in providing help for B cells to secrete phosphorylcholine-specific IgM antibodies. The resulting antibody responses exhibited a characteristic pattern suggesting two distinct regulatory interactions among the Th1, Th2, and B cells. At low doses of antigen, Th1 cells enhanced the helper function of the Th2 cells, an effect due primarily to IL-2. At high doses of antigen, Th1 cells or IFN-gamma inhibited Th2-dependent antibody responses. The inhibitory effect of Th1 or IFN-gamma affected primarily the hapten-carrier-linked portion of the response. The overall effect was a modulation of the antigen dose-response curve for antibody production, eliminating the sharp increases in dose response mediated by isolated T cell clones. The data suggest that collaborative interactions of Th1 and Th2 cells in antibody production may have important physiological consequences. PMID- 2526687 TI - Regulation of autoimmunity in normal and rheumatoid individuals by bone marrow derived natural suppressor cells and their suppressor factor: BDSF. AB - Natural suppressor activity is defined as the ability of unstimulated effector cells to suppress responses of lymphoid cells to antigenic and mitogenic stimuli in an MHC unrestricted manner. We have described natural suppressor cells in bone marrow exerting such a function through a suppressor factor termed BDSF. In this report we demonstrate the ability of BDSF to regulate the in vitro EBV- and PWM induced production of both IgM and IgM rheumatoid factor antibodies of lymphoid cells obtained from normal individuals and those with rheumatoid arthritis. BDSF therefore may play a role in the normal BM microenvironment suppressing primary IgM antibody responses. Since autoantibody responses are similarly suppressed, functional alteration or lack of BDSF may be responsible for the emergence of autoantibody-producing cells in bone marrow during certain autoimmune states. PMID- 2526688 TI - Age-related changes within a suppressor T cell circuit. AB - The effects of aging on cellular and molecular components of the 4-hydroxy-3 nitrophenyl acetyl-specific suppressor T (Ts) cell circuit were analyzed in vitro using inducer (Ts1), transducer (Ts2), and effector (Ts3) cells and activating factors (TsF1 and TsF2) derived from young or old mice. The activation of Ts2 cells by TsF1 and of Ts3 cells by TsF2 was found age-restricted, suggesting a loss of Ts2 and Ts3 cell subsets in old mice. However, the activation of Ts3 cells by small amounts of TsF2 is more efficient when both are derived from old rather than from young mice while the same level of maximum suppression is attained. Higher affinity of the interactions involved in Ts cell activation may compensate for loss of Ts cell subsets in old mice. No age restriction was found for antigen presentation to Ts1 cells and for the interaction between Ts3 cells and target B cells. Thus, the effects of aging on immunosuppression result from changes within the Ts cell circuit. PMID- 2526689 TI - Inhibition of lymphocyte activation with anti-transferrin receptor Mabs: a comparison of three reagents and further studies of their range of effects and mechanism of action. AB - Prior work has suggested that Mabs against the transferrin receptor (ATRAs) may function as selective inhibitors of lymphocyte activation and that T cell activation protocols may be more sensitive to ATRA-mediated inhibition than B cell activation protocols. New side-by-side functional comparisons of three ATRAs are presented. When these studies are considered with our prior work they demonstrate unambiguously that although one particular IgG ATRA consistently fails to inhibit LPS responses and although IgM ATRAs may be slightly more effective inhibitors than IgG ATRAs, ATRAs as a class consistently appear to abolish the MLR at submicrogram concentrations, essentially eliminate cytotoxic cell generation at concentrations between 1 and 5 micrograms/ml, and produce no more than about 50% inhibition of LPS responses at concentrations as high as 25 micrograms/ml. Therefore, an even stronger case can now be made for the idea that lymphocyte subsets differ in their dependence on transferrin receptor function during activation. This, in turn, makes an even stronger case for the idea that lymphocyte subsets differ in fundamental aspects of the management of their iron economies. New studies also show that IgG ATRAs appear to function by causing down-modulation of surface expression of the transferrin receptor in normal lymphocytes in a manner similar to that previously shown for tumor cells. It is clear that a sophisticated model will ultimately be required to account for all of the data arising from studies with ATRAs, and a new attempt at a more detailed construct is presented. PMID- 2526690 TI - The induction of T-suppressor cells with a soluble extract of Candida albicans. AB - We have previously shown that whole cell preparations of Candida albicans are capable of inducing immunosuppressive B-cell activity both in vivo and in vitro. In an effort to characterize the components of the yeast which manifest this immunomodulatory activity, we have successfully generated a soluble extract with dithiothreitol which exerts immunosuppressive activity. This extract is capable of inducing antigen-nonspecific suppressor cells which inhibit the antibody response of normal cells in coculture. Both primary and secondary antibody responses are suppressed by these cells. Our results also show that the suppressor cell population is a member of the L3T4+ Ly-1+ Lyt-2- T-cell lineage. These results provide evidence that Candida extracts may possess clinically significant immunomodulatory activities. PMID- 2526691 TI - Regulation of Fc epsilon receptor 2 (CD23) expression on a human eosinophilic cell line EoL3 and a human monocytic cell line U937 by transforming growth factor beta. AB - Regulation of low-affinity receptors for IgE (Fc epsilon R2/CD23) on a human eosinophilic cell line EoL3 and a human monocytic cell line U937 was studied using an anti-Fc,R2/CD23 monoclonal antibody H107 by flow cytometry. While platelet-activating factor, interleukin 4, and interferon gamma significantly augmented Fc epsilon R2/CD23 expression on both cell lines, transforming growth factor beta (TGF beta) inhibited both the basal level of Fc epsilon R2/CD23 expression and the enhanced Fc epsilon R2/CD23 expression induced by these reagents in dose- and time-dependent manners. However, TGF beta did not significantly suppress the high basal level of Fc epsilon R2/CD23 expression on RPMI 8866 cells. These results suggest that Fc epsilon R2/CD23 expression on EoL3 and U937 cells is regulated by various cytokines and growth factors, and that TGF beta plays an important regulatory role in IgE-mediated immune responses. PMID- 2526692 TI - A phase I study of trimetrexate (NSC 352122) administered by 5-day continuous intravenous infusion. AB - Trimetrexate (TMTX) is a potent inhibitor of dihydrofolate reductase that circumvents the transport resistance seen with methotrexate and has a wide spectrum of preclinical activity. A total of 18 patients with advanced cancer were treated in a clinical and pharmacological phase I trial with TMTX given as a continuous 5-day intravenous infusion. Neutropenia, thrombocytopenia and stomatitis were the dose-limiting toxicities at the maximum tolerated dose of 50 mg/m2 per 120 h (10 mg/m2 per day for 5 days). There was one septic death associated with neutropenia. Other toxicities were mild rash, mild nausea and transiently raised serum transminase levels. Significant relationships between the dose given and the AUC of plasma TMTX and the steady-state plasma level were established. Significant, although weak, relationships between the percentage of change in neutrophils and platelets and both the AUC and steady-state plasma level of TMTX were also observed. No objective tumour responses were seen, although six patients had stable disease. The recommended phase II dose for a continuous infusion of trimetrexate is 40 mg/m2 per 120 h. PMID- 2526693 TI - Fibrosis-induced reduction of endomyocardium in the rat after isoproterenol treatment. AB - Isoproterenol treatment leads to endomyocardial fibrosis with muscle fibers encircled by fibrillar collagen. This study was undertaken in the rat to determine if muscle encased in collagen would subsequently become either necrotic or atrophic. For this purpose, we monitored the fibrillar nature of myocardial collagen, its alignment with muscle, and the morphology of the endomyocardium, together with the response in diastolic and systolic myocardial stiffness, immediately on completion (10 days) and 30 days after a course of subcutaneous isoproterenol (500 micrograms/kg/day). We found 1) left ventricular hypertrophy at 10 and 30 days with an increase in collagen volume fraction (p less than 0.01) that consisted of a meshwork of thick and thin collagen fibers that encircled endomyocardial muscle, 2) a variable reduction in endocardial muscle fiber diameter at 30 days with the greatest thinning seen in muscle encircled by fibrous tissue, and 3) an elevation (p less than 0.01) in the slope of the diastolic stress-strain relation at 10 and 30 days. The developed systolic stress strain relation, which was elevated at 10 days (p less than 0.01), declined (p less than 0.05) with the reduction in endomyocardial muscle mass. Thus, endomyocardial muscle, encircled by fibrillar collagen, will atrophy over time, and this leads to a reduction in active stiffness. These findings may, in part, explain why progressive ventricular dysfunction accompanies chronic myocardial disease with endomyocardial fibrosis. PMID- 2526695 TI - Shortening velocity and myosin and myofibrillar ATPase activity related to myosin isoenzyme composition during postnatal development in rat myocardium. AB - The relation between functional properties of the contractile apparatus, such as shortening velocity and ATPase activity, and myosin isoenzyme composition was studied in ventricular myocardium of adult (60-90-day-old) rats and of newborn (3 day-old) and young (10- and 20-day-old) rats. In adult animals, variations of isomyosin pattern were produced by reducing food intake and by changing the thyroid state. Hyperthyroidism was induced with triiodothyronine daily injection for 15 days; hypothyroidism was induced with iodine-free diet and KClO4 in drinking water for 50-60 days. The following parameters were studied: 1) calcium magnesium-activated and magnesium-activated ATPase activity of washed and purified myofibrils, 2) calcium-activated ATPase activity of purified myosin, 3) isomyosin composition and relative content of alpha-myosin heavy chains (alpha MHCs), and 4) force-velocity curve of left and right ventricle papillary muscles. To take into account the difference in excitation-contraction coupling between newborn and adult myocardium, the determination of the force-velocity curve was repeated in Krebs' solution with normal [CaCl2] (2.5 mM) and in Krebs' solution with high [CaCl2] (10 mM). During postnatal growth, the relative content of alpha MHC increased and reached a maximum at about 20 days. Pronounced increases of myofibrillar and myosin ATPase activity and in shortening velocity occurred during the same period. In adult hyperthyroid rats, alpha-MHC content as well as enzymatic activity and shortening velocity were higher than in control adult animals. Hypothyroidism and food deprivation caused a decrease of alpha-MHC content and a reduction of both enzymatic activities and shortening velocity. The study of the relations between alpha-MHC relative content and functional parameters showed that 1) in ventricular myocardium of adult rats a linear relation existed between alpha-MHC content and myosin and myofibrillar ATPase activity and shortening velocity, and 2) in newborn and young rat ventricular myocardium, both enzymatic activities and shortening velocity were lower than would have been expected on the basis of the linear relation described above. This latter observation could be accounted for by a variation in specific activity of myosin during postnatal development or by the presence of peculiar isomyosins that cannot be detected with usual electrophoretic techniques. PMID- 2526694 TI - Response of isolated working hearts to fatty acids and carnitine palmitoyltransferase I inhibition during reduction of coronary flow in acutely and chronically diabetic rats. AB - The effects of palmitate on mechanical failure of ischemic hearts were studied in acutely (48-hour) and chronically (6-week) streptozotocin diabetic rats. Coronary flow was reduced by 50% in isolated working hearts perfused at a 15 cm H2O preload and 100 mm Hg afterload by the one-way ball valve model of ischemia. Peak systolic pressure (PSP) and cardiac output (CO) decreased 40% by 4 minutes in control hearts perfused with 11 mM glucose and paced at 280 beats/min, compared with 50% in hearts from acutely diabetic rats. Addition of 1.2 mM palmitate to the perfusate accelerated failure rates, with PSP and CO decreasing 65% and 80% by 4 minutes in control and acutely diabetic rat hearts, respectively. In chronically diabetic rats, mechanical function could not be maintained in palmitate-perfused hearts paced at 280 beats/min, even in the absence of ischemia. If these hearts were paced at 250 beats/min and subjected to ischemia, PSP and CO decreased 90% by 4 minutes, regardless of whether palmitate was added to the perfusate. Under these conditions, PSP decreased less than 10% by 4 minutes in both palmitate- or glucose-perfused control hearts. Etomoxir (10(-9) M), a carnitine palmitoyltransferase I inhibitor, markedly decreased the rate of mechanical failure in both acutely and chronically diabetic rat hearts, in the presence and absence of palmitate. The beneficial effect of Etomoxir on mechanical function did not occur as a result of a decrease in either myocardial long chain acyl-coenzyme A or long chain acylcarnitine levels.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526696 TI - Biochemical kinetics of porcine cardiac subfragment-1. II. Pre-steady-state studies of the initial phosphate burst. AB - The actin dependence of the rate and magnitude of the initial phosphate burst was measured using both quench-flow and stopped-flow kinetic techniques. These studies revealed that even at high actin concentrations the magnitude of the phosphate burst was a significant fraction of the magnitude that exists in the absence of actin. Furthermore, it was shown that the rate of the burst rises rapidly as a function of the actin concentration. Detailed modeling with the four state model revealed that if the predicted Vmax is constrained to be approximately equal to the extrapolated value (double reciprocal plot) and if the apparent dissociation constant of subfragment-1 to actin divided by the apparent activation constant of the actin-activated myosin ATPase activity (Kbinding/KATPase) is constrained to be considerably different from one, then the model is unable to simultaneously account for the ATPase activity and the rate and magnitude of the initial inorganic phosphate burst. PMID- 2526697 TI - Prognostic implications and predictors of enhanced regional wall motion of the noninfarct zone after thrombolysis and angioplasty therapy of acute myocardial infarction. The TAMI Study Groups. AB - Although impairment of left ventricular function in acute myocardial infarction is closely related to extent of necrosis, function in the noninfarct zone also contributes to global performance and thus may be of prognostic importance. We evaluated left ventricular regional wall motion by the centerline chord method in 332 patients treated with intravenous tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA) in the multicenter Thrombolysis and Angioplasty in Myocardial Infarction (TAMI) I trial. All patients had acute contrast ventriculograms of suitable quality for analysis, and 266 patients had paired acute and day 7 ventriculograms. Enhanced function of the noninfarct zone was present during acute catheterization (+0.3 SD/chord) and was associated with preservation of the acute ejection fraction (p = 0.0001). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed the most powerful clinical factor associated with enhanced function of the noninfarct zone was the absence of multivessel disease (p = 0.0001). Clinical factors that were related weakly to noninfarct zone function included female gender (p = 0.08) and higher flow in the infarct artery (p = 0.03). Neither the degree of infarct zone dysfunction nor infarct location was associated with hyperkinesis of the noninfarct zone. In hospital, mortality was closely related to function in the noninfarct zone (p = 0.006), ejection fraction (p = 0.025), and the number of diseased vessels (p = 0.009) but was not related to infarct zone function (p = 0.128).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526698 TI - Regulation of ventricular atrial natriuretic peptide release in hypertrophied rat myocardium. Effects of exercise. AB - Left ventricular hypertrophy is characterized by stimulation of ventricular synthesis of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP). This study was designed to test the hypothesis that the increased ventricular ANP levels participate in the release of ANP into the circulation. Swimming was used as a physiologic model to induce ANP release from the heart, and atrial and ventricular levels of immunoreactive ANP (IR-ANP) and ANP messenger RNA (mRNA) were measured simultaneously in the spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) and Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats at rest and after swimming. IR-ANP concentration in the left ventricle of 1 year-old SHR with severe left ventricular hypertrophy was increased in association with the augmentation of ANP mRNA levels, whereas right ventricular levels of ANP were reduced in SHR compared with normotensive controls. A 30 minute exercise in hypertensive and in normotensive rats resulted in marked increases in mean arterial pressure, heart rate, plasma catecholamine levels, blood lactate levels, and plasma IR-ANP concentration. The increased ANP secretion was associated with a decrease in left (34-39%) and right (24%) ventricular concentration of IR-ANP; transmurally, this depletion of ventricular IR-ANP was greatest (28%) in the endocardial layer of the left ventricle of SHR. No significant differences were noted in total atrial and left or right auricular IR-ANP concentration between SHR and WKY rats or between the resting and swimming rats. When studied in vitro with an isolated, perfused heart preparation, the hypertrophic ventricular tissue after atrialectomy secreted more ANP into the perfusate than did control hearts; in SHR, ventricles contributed 28% of the total ANP release to perfusate, and in normotensive control rats, ventricles contributed 8%. These studies show that stimulated release of ANP is associated with depletion of endocardial left ventricular stores. The amount of ANP released in vitro and in vivo correlated with the degree of hypertrophy of the ventricle. Finally, the phorbol ester, known to increase ANP secretion from intact perfused hearts, had only a limited effect on ANP release after atrialectomy, suggesting that the secretion of ANP from ventricular cells may be mainly of the constitutive type. PMID- 2526699 TI - Characterization of a suppressive factor of platelet cytotoxic functions in human and rat schistosomiasis mansoni. AB - In a previous study we demonstrated that mitogen-stimulated CD8+ CD4-T cells from normal donors produce a suppressive lymphokine (PASL) of IgE-dependent platelet cytotoxicity. Here we demonstrate the production, after antigenic-stimulation, of this suppressive factor during ongoing infections by Schistosoma mansoni in man and in the rat. The T lymphocyte subpopulation producing this factor was also identified as expressing the marker of the suppressive subset. Because of the absence of species restriction, the relevance in vivo of PASL was determined in the rat model. In these conditions we observed a complete abolition of the protection normally conferred against a challenge infection by the passive transfer of platelets from immune to normal rats after treatment of transferred platelets with T lymphocyte supernatants. PMID- 2526701 TI - [Secretion and clinical significance of atrial natriuretic peptide in patients with muscular dystrophy]. AB - In patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), heart failure appears in later stage of the disease due to myocardial degeneration and respiratory insufficiency, and sometimes causes death. However, there have been no adequate parameters which can be used easily to evaluate the grade of heart failure in DMD, except cardiac enlargement and pulmonary congestion observed by chest X-ray picture. Thus, we measured the plasma concentrations of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) in the patients with muscular dystrophy of various types, and studied a relationship between plasma ANP concentration and heart failure, expecting that it could be an index of heart failure in DMD patients. The plasma ANP concentrations in patients with DMD were 35.5 +/- 3.3pg/ml (mean +/- SE) and higher than in normal subjects (19.3 +/- 1.0pg/ml). In the patients with limb girdle muscular dystrophy, facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy and neurogenic muscular atrophy, the plasma ANP concentration showed a tendency to elevate. However, no elevation of plasma ANP levels was observed in the patients with other types of muscular dystrophy. In DMD, number of the patients having a high plasma ANP concentration was increased with progress of disability grade, and decrease in serum creatine kinase activity and serum myoglobin concentration. There was a significant correlation (p less than 0.01) between plasma ANP concentration and cardiothoracic ratio or PEP/LVET, but no correlation between the concentration and respiratory failure. Immunohistochemistry of the atrial cardiac muscle of an autopsied DMD case revealed many ANP-positive atrial muscle cells, indicating the preservation of ANP-secreting function.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526700 TI - Allogenic induction of thromboplastin synthesis in monocytes and endothelial cells. Biphasic effect of cyclosporin A. AB - Monocytes and endothelial cells were stimulated in co-culture with allogeneic lymphocytes to produce thromboplastin (TPL). The induction was biphasic, an early response (8-24 h) was greatly augmented by cyclosporin A (CS) (0.5-5 micrograms/ml) whereas the late response (day 3-4) was inhibited. Prednisolone inhibited both responses. Both drugs inhibited lymphocyte proliferation. Interferon-gamma decreased MLC TPL activity but increased thymidine incorporation. CD4+ cells were instrumental in inducing the early TPL peak in monocytes, whereas CD8+ cells decreased the TPL effect. With endothelial cells both T cell classes were equally effective. Conditioned medium from MLC as well as from co-cultures of endothelial cells and lymphocytes induced early TPL synthesis in endothelial cells. Upon allogeneic stimulation monocytes, but not endothelial cells, produced a significant amount of F-VII, most of which was apparently undercarboxylated. PMID- 2526702 TI - Recanalisation of femoro-popliteal occlusions: improving success rate by subintimal recanalisation. PMID- 2526703 TI - [Pharmacokinetics and nephrotoxicity of aminoglycoside antibiotics]. AB - Aminoglycoside antibiotics are characterized by a quick fall of blood levels (half-life 2-3 hours) and by a very slow urinary excretion (they can be detected in the urine up to 10-20 days after therapy is discontinued). This peculiar pharmacokinetic feature of these antibiotics may be attributed to some rapid steps of their pharmacokinetics (glomerular filtration, tubular reabsorption or uptake, storage in the renal cells) followed by a very slow step (transfer from these cells to tubular lumen with following urinary excretion). The aminoglycosides are very polar compounds and their uptake by tubular cells is mediated by an active transport. The uptake is responsible for the storage in the corticorenal cells. It is generally held that the storage, because of its long duration, is responsible for the nephrotoxicity, although the correlation between storage and nephrotoxicity is denied by some authors. Some practical implications of aminoglycoside pharmacokinetics could be: a) Kidney damage by aminoglycosides is often reversible, but the potential risk of nephrotoxicity must be considered to be still present at the time of the interruption of therapy. Therefore the measures during aminoglycoside therapy (prophylaxis of risk factors, monitoring of renal function, etc.) are to be continued also in the period immediately after the interruption of therapy. b) In animals some factors (high-calcium diet, calcium blockers, ACE inhibitors) are able to reduce aminoglycoside nephrotoxicity; some of them are operating through inhibition of uptake. It would be desirable to test the possible ability of these factors to reduce aminoglycoside nephrotoxicity in humans. PMID- 2526704 TI - [Enoxacin in the treatment of bacterial infections of the respiratory system]. AB - The above study was carried out in 30 patients, 22 males, 8 females, aged between 30 and 66 years, average age 57.17 +/- 1.43 years, 19 of whom with flare-ups of chronic or asthmatic bronchitis, 6 suffering from flare-ups of chronic bronchoectasic bronchitis, and 5 with acute tracheobronchitis. Treatment with two 300 mg tablets of enoxacin daily lasted from 10 to 15 days. The clinical result was good in 95% of the cases, and microbiological results were also satisfactory in that the micro-organisms isolated were sensitive to the antibiotic. Tolerance was good both locally and generally, only two patients complained of slight stomach discomfort. Both symptoms and laboratory findings improved progressively, and the result was considered excellent in four cases, good in 25 and only fair in one. PMID- 2526705 TI - [Duhring and Brocq dermatitis herpetiformis. Recent immunologic findings. Personal observations in a patient]. AB - The clinical, anatomopathological and therapeutic aspects of herpetiform dermatitis are nowadays almost completely clarified; for this reason in this study we limit ourselves to evaluating only its essential characteristics. The above study is mainly intended to present an exhaustive documentation of the immunological pattern of Duhring-Brocq dermatitis. PMID- 2526706 TI - [Use of a new preparation of flunarizine in patients with peripheral obliterating arteriopathy at the second stage. Controlled clinical study]. AB - The authors report a randomised double-blind clinical study on the efficacy and tolerability of flunarizine. Two groups of patients with obliterating peripheral arterial disease (stage II) were treated for 3 months either with 10 mg flunarizine or with placebo and were examined monthly as to subjective symptoms, laboratory and instrumental parameters. Findings were evaluated by analysis of variance and Student's t-test. After three months, the flunarizine group had a greater increase of the distance walked before the onset of claudication and of maximum post-ischemic blood flow. No changes were observed in laboratory tests and central hemodynamics. The score of subjective symptoms was improved in the flunarizine treated group. Tolerance was good, side effects requiring withdrawal of treatment were not observed. PMID- 2526707 TI - [Efficacy of flecainide in the treatment of ventricular tachycardia in the elderly. Dynamic electrocardiographic study]. AB - The antiarrhythmic activity of flecainide has been tested in seven old patients (mean age 71 years) suffering from recurrent episodes of ventricular tachycardia. A basal 24-hour dynamic electrocardiogram was recorded for each patient and was repeated on day 5 of oral flecainide treatment (200 mg). A significant reduction (p less than 0.0001) of premature ventricular beats, of bigeminism (p = 0.0025) and of the episodes of ventricular tachycardia (p = 0.017) was obtained with plasma flecainide levels between 322 and 614 ng/ml. In addition, sinus rhythm was restored in two patients with stable atrial fibrillation and in the others ectopic atrial beats were markedly reduced. Among the ECG parameters examined, only QRS was significantly increased (p = 0.034). No significant change of blood pressure and laboratory parameters was observed. Untoward side effects were not observed. PMID- 2526708 TI - [Osteoporosis: a silent thief]. AB - Having stressed the often disregarded social importance of osteoporosis and listed the risk factors, the authors illustrate the classification, etiopathogenesis, paucity of symptoms and the most valuable diagnostic resources, and discuss present therapeutic possibilities, while stressing the fact that, as in many other situations, prevention remains the best policy. PMID- 2526709 TI - [Acute poisoning with organophosphoric esters. A case in a 24-year-old patient]. AB - A case of acute organophosphate poisoning (Malatox P20) in a 24-year-old woman, is reported. The signs and symptoms of acute poisoning are described and a rational approach to specific treatment is discussed. PMID- 2526710 TI - Patch tests with occupational contactants in nurses, doctors and dentists. AB - In this study, 333 nurses, 92 dentists and 167 doctors were investigated. Most positive patch tests obtained were unrelated to occupation. Nurses were most often sensitized to penicillins and, of the disinfectants, formaldehyde was the commonest cause of occupational dermatitis. Among dentists, the most common occupational allergens were eugenol and mercuric chloride. Among surgeons, as compared with physicians, there were frequent reactions to mercuric chloride and balsam of Peru, and a higher number of positive patch tests with other contactants. Among those sensitized to chromium, 4 doctors found that contact with chromic catgut was harmful. 6 other doctors were intolerant to surgical gloves. A number of nurses and doctors had an irritant contact dermatitis from chlorhexidine. PMID- 2526711 TI - Hyposensitization to poison ivy after working in a cashew nut shell oil processing factory. AB - 19 adults were patch tested to urushiol, the allergen in poison ivy/oak, to determine their sensitivity to this allergen after working in a cashew nut shell oil (CNSO) processing plant. The cashew nut tree and poison ivy/oak are in the same botanical family. Anacardiaceae, and they share similar chemicals which cause allergic contact dermatitis. 13 of the 19 workers had a preemployment history of poison ivy sensitivity, with 10 developing CNSO dermatitis. After working in this factory for several months, 9 of the 13 noticed a decreased sensitivity or no sensitivity to poison ivy/oak. When tested to urushiol extract, only 3 reacted positively, 2 minimally. These results imply that hyposensitization to poison ivy/oak occurred in these employees after development of hardening to cashew nut shell oil. PMID- 2526712 TI - Dermatoses in metal workers. (II). Allergic contact dermatitis. AB - In an epidemiological study of 286 metalworkers exposed to metalworking fluids (MWF), the prevalence of contact sensitization was investigated. In part I, irritant contact dermatitis in metal workers has been discussed. In 40 employees with dermatitis, patch tests were performed with a routine series, a series of common components of MWF, and a series of preservatives the employees worked with. Contact sensitization was established in 8 persons (2.8% of all workers), of whom 4 were allergic to biocides and/or corrosion inhibitors. Difficulties in interpretation of the relevance of positive reactions are discussed. Attention is paid to the use of biocides in MWF, their various types and their sensitizing capacities. Measures to reduce the induction of contact sensitization to preservatives in water-based fluids are discussed. PMID- 2526713 TI - Photoallergic contact dermatitis due to mineral oil. AB - A 39-year-old metal polishing mechanic had had an acute-on-chronic eczematous eruption on sun-exposed skin for 2 years. It improved in winter. He had been using an insoluble oil, CRT 20, as a cutting oil for 20 years. The cutting oil itself and mineral oil, which was one of its ingredients, showed positive reactions on photopatch testing. The difference action spectrum with or without mineral oil application, assessed at 48 h, ranged from 300 to 350 nm, with a peak at 320 nm. This is the 1st report of photoallergic contact dermatitis due to mineral oil. PMID- 2526714 TI - Unusual occupational allergic contact dermatitis in a nurse. PMID- 2526715 TI - Erythroderma from carbamazepine. PMID- 2526716 TI - Occupational airborne allergic contact dermatitis from tylosin. PMID- 2526718 TI - Dermatologists and anabolic-androgenic drug abuse. AB - The use of huge self-administered dosages of anabolic-androgenic steroids by athletes and body builders is widespread in the United States, increasing at a rapid rate among athletes of both sexes and involving an ever-expanding age group. Athletes are very wary of revealing steroid use to their physicians, so a high index of suspicion is a prerequisite in diagnosing the use of these agents. Since many of the side effects of steroids are manifested in the skin, dermatologists are in a unique and favorable position to detect their use, if they are aware of such clinical signs. Once alerted to this possibility during a dermatologic examination, the dermatologist has an excellent opportunity to make users aware of the potential hazards and dangers of taking such drugs. Counselling these athletes can do much to stem the tide against the rising problem of drug abuse. It is a worthwhile service to sports in general as well as to the patient's personal health. Many of our conclusions are based on our personal experience with elite and Olympic athletes in almost every sport, body builders, and junior high school, high school, and college students and athletes. PMID- 2526717 TI - Metabolic effects of three new low-dose pills: a six-month experience. AB - We evaluated the effects on glucose and lipid metabolism in 57 healthy volunteers randomly assigned to one of three low-dose oral contraceptives: two monophasic (desogestrel + ethinylestradiol, EE, and cyproterone acetate + EE) and one triphasic (gestodene + EE) contraceptives. Glucose and insulin responses during OGTT were slightly affected by the cyproterone pill. The insulin area/glucose area ratio and HbA1c level were unchanged in all women. No preparation affected total and LDL-cholesterol levels. Triglycerides rose in all groups, while HDL-CH did only in women taking the two monophasic pills. The three low-dose pills assessed in this study have negligible effects on glucose and lipid metabolism. PMID- 2526719 TI - Cutaneous nerve elimination following punch biopsy. AB - We report the first case of cutaneous nerve elimination following routine punch biopsy and primary closure. The appearance of a delicate whitish strand from a healed biopsy site, which produces lancinating pain, may represent an extruded cutaneous nerve. This case was treated successfully with simple transection of the nerve at its portal of exit. PMID- 2526720 TI - Increased CSF opioid activity in sleep apnea syndrome. Regression after successful treatment. AB - The etiology of the SAS is unknown. To test whether endogenous opioids could be pathologically active in SAS, markers of opioid systems were measured in the CSF of 15 patients with SAS and in control subjects. Measured by receptor assay, the concentration of so-called fraction 1 opioid was higher in patients with SAS (3.0 +/- 1.5 pmol/ml; mean +/- SD) than in control subjects (1.1 +/- 0.5 pmol/ml) (p less than 0.01), whereas that of fraction 2 opioid was similar in the two groups. Beta-endorphin-like activity, measured by radioimmunoassay, was somewhat lower in patients with SAS (14.0 +/- 2.8 pmol/ml) than in control subjects (21.8 +/- 7.6 pmol/ml) (p less than 0.05). Six months after surgical treatment of the soft palate, new measurements were made in eight patients. Fraction 2 endorphin and beta-endorphin showed no consistent changes. A decrease in the level of fraction 1 from 4.1 +/- 1.5 pmol/ml to 2.3 +/- 1.0 pmol/ml (p less than 0.02) was noted in those six patients showing a successful clinical course. The data support the hypothesis that in SAS the opioid activity is increased. PMID- 2526722 TI - Suppressor T-cell abnormality in NOD mice before onset of diabetes. AB - To investigate the pathological role of suppressor T-cells in non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice, we stimulated splenic T-lymphocytes from diabetes-prone NOD mice with concanavalin A (ConA) and then evaluated their ability to suppress the lymphocyte proliferative responses to mitogen and allogenic cells. Lymphocytes from NOD mice showed significantly less suppressor ability than did those from BALB/c mice and non-obese non-diabetic (NON) mice, the corresponding non-diabetic sister strain of the NOD mouse, both in the mitogen response and in the mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR). We used monoclonal antibodies and flow cytometry to analyze the lymphocytic surface phenotypes, and found markedly fewer Lyt2+ T-lymphocytes (suppressor/cytotoxic T-lymphocyte) in the NOD mice than in both controls after exposure to ConA. These results suggest that suppressor T-cell activity is already depressed in NOD mice before diabetes begins and that a substantial decrease in the number of suppressor T-cells induced by ConA may explain this depressed suppressor activity. This impairment may contribute to the pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes in NOD mice. PMID- 2526721 TI - Indices of severity of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome do not change during medroxyprogesterone acetate therapy. AB - Medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) could change the frequency and/or duration of disordered breathing events (DBEs) in patients with the obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) syndrome by altering pharyngeal muscle function relative to diaphragm and external intercostal function. Ten male patients with OSA syndrome underwent an initial polysomnogram with monitoring of EEG, EOG, myohyoid EMG, oral and nasal airflow, abdominal and thoracic movement, and SaO2. The patients were then entered into a randomized, double-blind crossover study using MPA, 150 mg/day, and MPA placebo. Each patient took tablets for one week and then had a second polysomnogram. After a three week washout, the patient again took tablets for a week prior to the third and final sleep study. There was no significant difference between drug and placebo for DBE time (expressed as a percentage of sleep time), DBE frequency, DBE mean duration or mean fall in O2 saturation during DBEs. We conclude that treatment with MPA does not alter indices of severity of the OSA syndrome. PMID- 2526723 TI - [Localization of mRNA segments, screened by ribosomes in initiator complexes with the help of a reverse transcription reaction]. PMID- 2526724 TI - [Increase in the transforming activity of plasmid DNA by means of its inclusion in the interpolyelectrolytic complex with a carbon-chain cation]. PMID- 2526725 TI - [Induction of an immune response to beta-endorphin leads to a decrease in emotional stress in monkeys]. PMID- 2526726 TI - [Percutaneous transluminal excimer laser coronary angioplasty]. AB - Percutaneous transluminal laser coronary angioplasty (PTLCA) was undertaken in five patients (four men and one woman, aged 44-72 years) with coronary artery stenosis. The vessel diameter was increased in all patients after PTLCA; complete ablation of the atheromatous plaque succeeded in three. In the other two the catheter could not be advanced across the entire stenotic region. After PTLCA the stenoses were 40-50% of normal lumen. Balloon dilatation was additionally done in all five patients. In three this caused dissection of the vessel wall distal to the stenosis and possible intracoronary thrombus formation: this would suggest that balloon dilatation after laser angioplasty is not recommendable. PTLCA widens the spectrum of invasive methods for treating coronary artery stenosis. PMID- 2526727 TI - Antiandrogens do not reverse androgen-induced inhibition of sex hormone-binding globulin levels in adult female rhesus monkeys. AB - Studies were done to determine if changes in plasma sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) levels could serve as a specific marker of androgenic and antiandrogenic activities in rhesus monkeys. Treatment of adult female monkeys for 11 days with 17 alpha-methyltestosterone (MeT) produced dose and time-dependent reductions in SHBG levels. However, the non-steroidal antiandrogen flutamide (80 mg/monkey.day) did not inhibit the reduction in SHBG levels when coadministered with MeT, nor did it have an effect on SHBG levels when given alone. In contrast, the steroidal antiandrogens Win 49596 (100 mg/monkey.day) and cyproterone acetate (80 mg/monkey.day) significantly (P less than 0.01) reduced SHBG plasma concentration to about 50% of pretreatment control values whether given alone or in combination with MeT. Furthermore, Win 49596 reduced SHBG levels at doses as low as 4 mg/monkey, whereas cortico-steroid-binding globulin levels were not affected. In ovariectomized monkeys, MeT treatment (4 mg/monkey.day for 15 days) reduced plasma SHBG levels to 42% of pretreatment values and delayed the onset of withdrawal menstrual bleeding compared to that in controls. When administered concurrently with MeT, flutamide (100 mg/monkey.day) antagonized the effect on withdrawal bleeding, but was without effect on SHBG levels. Therefore, plasma SHBG levels cannot be used as a specific indicator of androgenic or antiandrogenic activity and may not be regulated through the classical androgen receptor. PMID- 2526728 TI - The posterior pituitary contains a potent prolactin-releasing factor: in vivo studies. AB - The posterior pituitary contains a PRL-releasing factor (PRF), a small (less than 5000 mol wt) peptide which is distinct from known PRL secretagogues. The objectives of this study were to determine if posterior pituitary extracts specifically stimulate PRL release in vivo and to assess the relative contributions of oxytocin (OT), arginine vasopressin (AVP), and beta-endorphin (beta END) to the PRF activity of the extract. Rat posterior pituitaries or cerebellar tissue were extracted with 1.0 N acetic acid, boiled, and ultrafiltered through 5000 mol wt cutoff membranes. The eluates were treated with performic acid (which oxidizes disulfide bonds and methionine residues), lyophilized, and reconstituted in saline. Jugular blood was collected from conscious ovariectomized rats before and after intracarotid injection of test substances and was analyzed for PRL, LH, and GH by RIA. Injection of 0.3, 1.0, and 3.0, posterior pituitary equivalents increased plasma PRL levels by 2-, 8-, and 22-fold, respectively. PRL levels peaked within 5 min after the injection and returned to basal levels by 30 min. Plasma LH levels decreased slightly, and GH was unchanged. Cerebellar extracts did not affect plasma hormone levels. Injection of OT induced a 4-fold rise in plasma PRL levels. Oxidation of OT was well as AVP with performic acid abolished any PRL-releasing activity. Injection of beta END increased plasma PRL levels by 7-fold. Treatment of beta END with performic acid caused a 60% loss in its ability to release PRL. Pretreatment of rats with naloxone abolished the PRL-releasing effect of beta END, but did not alter the PRF activity of posterior pituitary extracts. We conclude that posterior pituitary extracts stimulate PRL release in vivo in the presence of an intact dopaminergic inhibition. This stimulation is rapid, dose dependent, and hormone specific. OT, AVP, and beta END do not contribute significantly to the PRF activity in the posterior pituitary extract. PMID- 2526729 TI - Decrease in glucose transporter number in skeletal muscle of mildly diabetic (streptozotocin-treated) rats. AB - Diabetes is associated with a decrease in glucose uptake into muscle, the primary tissue responsible for whole body glucose uptake in the fed state. To study the basis of such a decrease we estimated the number of glucose transporters in skeletal muscle membranes from control and streptozotocin (STZ)-treated rats. Animals were injected with 65 mg STZ/kg and were clearly diabetic (hyperglycemic and glycosuric) at 1 week. After an overnight fast, animals were killed, and skeletal muscle from hind limbs were removed and used to prepare plasma membranes and internal membranes. The number of glucose transporters was determined by D glucose-protectable equilibrium binding of [3H]cytochalasin-B. STZ-treated rats showed a 37% decrease in the number of glucose transporters per mg protein in crude membranes. The decrease was more pronounced in plasma membranes (average 50% decrease) than in the intracellular membranes (32% decrease). The reduction in the number of glucose transporters was specific, since it was not paralleled by changes in other plasma membrane markers or in total protein, although plasma membrane protein decreased by 15% in STZ-treated rats. When total recoveries of transporters were calculated (i.e. picomoles of transporters recovered per g tissue), the number of transporters in the plasma membrane fraction from STZ treated rats was decreased by 68% relative to that in control animals. In the intracellular membranes and in total crude membranes from diabetic rats the transporters were decreased by 45%. This suggests that in STZ-treated rats there is an overall decrease in the number of glucose transporters, and that the plasma membrane is further specifically depleted of transporters. The decrease in glucose transporter number in the plasma membrane could at least in part be the cause of the diminished glucose uptake in diabetic muscle and for overall drop in total body glucose utilization of this condition. PMID- 2526730 TI - Effects of carbamazepine on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis in male patients with epilepsy: a prospective study. AB - The effects of carbamazepine (CBZ) monotherapy on serum sex hormone levels and on pituitary responsiveness to various stimuli were evaluated in a prospective study with 21 male patients with epilepsy. The serum levels of testosterone (T), free testosterone (FT), sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), estradiol (E2), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), prolactin (PRL), and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) were assayed, and the free androgen index (FAI) values were calculated for each patient before and after 2-month CBZ treatment. The pituitary PRL, LH, and FSH responses to luteinizing hormone releasing hormone (LH-RH), thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH), and metoclopramide (MC) were also measured before and after CBZ treatment. The baseline serum hormone and SHBG levels were measured and the FAI values calculated in 16 healthy male control subjects of similar age. The mean E2 level was higher in patients before CBZ treatment than in control subjects, and untreated patients had greater variances for FAI values, PRL levels, and LH levels than control subjects. No other significant differences were found between untreated patients and control subjects. The FAI values and DHEAS levels of patients decreased during 2-month treatment with CBZ. The PRL response to MC was higher after CBZ treatment than before. The baseline levels of other hormones and SHBG, as well as the LH and FSH responses to LH-RH, remained unaltered. The results indicate that during the first 2 months of CBZ treatment the androgen balance in male epileptic patients changes: Serum DHEAS levels and FAI values decrease, although FT levels remain unchanged. The clinical relevance of these hormonal changes is obscure. PMID- 2526731 TI - Comparison of potency of human carcinogens: vinyl chloride, chloromethylmethyl ether and bis(chloromethyl)ether. AB - The alpha-chloroether carcinogen chloromethylmethyl ether (CME) and its impurity bis(chloromethyl)ether (BCME) are direct-acting alkylating agents. Vinyl chloride (VC) is an indirect-acting carcinogen but its accepted carcinogenic intermediate, chloroethylene oxide, is also an alpha-chloroether. Both CME-BCME and VC have been in industrial use since about 1950. Hence, they were selected for comparison of potency as human carcinogens using numerous epidemiologic reports. There were 115 deaths due to angiosarcoma of the liver among several hundred thousand VC exposed workers on the basis of reports from 10 countries during 1955 and 1984. Reports from five countries cited a total of 87 respiratory cancer deaths among only 3024 CME-BCME-exposed workers. If a recent court settlement in the United States is taken into account, the number of respiratory cancer deaths due to CME BCME rises to 117. On the basis of these numbers of cancer deaths, and the levels and durations of exposure, it is concluded that VC is a weak human carcinogen compared to CME-BCME. PMID- 2526733 TI - Do hospital personnel in hyperendemic areas require immunization against hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection? Is vertical transmission of HBV infection common in this group? AB - Medical personnel working in contact with blood and blood-contaminated body fluids are often considered to be a high-risk group for hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and, as a result, it is recommended that they should be vaccinated against this infection. To find out if this is necessary in a country hyperendemic for HBV infection and to see if parents transmit the infection to their offspring, a total of 336 volunteer hospital employees, and 103 children of 47 of them, were tested for HBsAg, anti-HBc, anti-HBs, HBeAg and anti-HBe using the radioimmunoassay technique. Of these, 242 (72%) were found to have evidence of past or present HBV infection and only 94 (28%) had no such evidence. The infection prevalence in the 47 parents was 68% comparable to that of the total sample. Only 9 of their 103 children were positive for HBV markers. All tested parents of these positive children were either negative for all markers or positive for anti-HBs. The HBV infection prevalence among this hospital population is not different from that of the general Ethiopian population, and vertical transmission appears unlikely in this group. Therefore, mass vaccination of hospital staff in hyperendemic areas is unnecessary. PMID- 2526732 TI - Anticonvulsant activity of intracerebroventricularly administered glial GABA uptake inhibitors and other GABAmimetics in chemical seizure models. AB - The antiseizure activities of glial or neuronal GABA uptake inhibitors and GABA agonists were compared following intracerebroventricular administration in 2 acute models of chemoconvulsion in rats. The glia-selective GABA uptake inhibitor, 4,5,6,7-tetrahydroisoxazolo[4,5-c]pyridin-3-ol (THPO), given at doses of 100-750 micrograms, i.c.v., protected against maximal pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) seizures and increased the latency to isonicotinic acid hydrazide (INH) seizures for at least 1 h following central administration. THPO failed to increase PTZ seizure thresholds. In contrast, the more potent partly glia-selective GABA uptake inhibitor, cis-4-hydroxynipecotic acid (30-300 micrograms), which is also a substrate for neuronal and glial transport systems, protected only 33% of rats against PTZ-induced tonic extension and had no effect on INH seizure latency. The neuron-selective uptake inhibitor L-2,4-diaminobutyric acid (DABA) at 1500 micrograms exhibited anti-PTZ activity initially and then, after a delay, produced proconvulsant behavior and spontaneous myoclonus in some animals. Intracerebroventricular injection of the GABA receptor agonist, muscimol, at toxic doses, gave rise to mixed anticonvulsant (INH seizures) and proconvulsant (PTZ seizure thresholds) effects. The results suggest that THPO, of the 4 compounds tested, possesses significant anticonvulsant activity. Its ability to suppress tonic but not generalized minor seizures suggests that it may block seizure spread. PMID- 2526734 TI - O-glycosylation of leukosialin in K562 cells. Evidence for initiation and elongation in early Golgi compartments. AB - The O-glycosylation of leukosialin, a major sialoglycoprotein found on leukocytes, has been studied in the human erythroleukemic cell line K562. The appearance of its O-linked chains has been followed in pulse-chase experiments with [35S]methionine by immunoprecipitation with an anti-peptide antiserum as well as with a lectin from Salvia sclarea seeds (SSA) specific for GalNAc-Ser/Thr and the peanut (Arachis hypogaea) agglutinin (PNA) which recognizes Gal beta 1--- 3GalNAc-Ser/Thr structures. An O-glycan-free precursor was converted into the fully O-glycosylated mature form within the 10-min labeling period and no intermediates carrying only GalNAc-Ser/Thr structures could be detected. The ionophore monensin was used in order to slow down intracellular traffic and thus O-glycan synthesis. The drug partly inhibited the transport from rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) to the Golgi and also the cell-surface expression of leukosialin. It was found to have a marked effect on the synthesis of O-linked carbohydrate structures of leukosialin since the amount of O-glycans containing only GalNAc or NeuNAc alpha 2----6GalNAc was significantly increased after monensin treatment. Under these conditions the biosynthesis of the N-glycan on leukosialin was completely arrested in an endoglycosidase-H-sensitive step of processing, whereas the O-glycans already contained galactose and sialic acid although at a reduced level. On the other hand, the small amounts of leukosialin expressed on the cell surface of monensin-treated cells carried the same glycans as those remaining blocked inside the cell. In addition, immunocytochemical studies using SSA and PNA on untreated K562 cells suggested the absence of detectable amounts of GalNAc-Ser/Thr-bearing glycoproteins in the RER as well as in the Golgi. In contrast Gal beta 1----3GalNAc structures could be detected on intracellular membranes which were tentatively identified as the cis-Golgi. Together these results lead us to the following conclusions: N-glycan transfer occurs in the RER before the initiation of O-glycans which takes place at the entrance of the protein into the Golgi; further elongation of O-glycans with galactose and sialic acid follows very rapidly, probably before the final processing of N-glycans to complex-type structures. PMID- 2526735 TI - Structural and functional studies on rabbit liver glycogenin. AB - Glycogenin, the protein primer required for the biogenesis of muscle glycogen, has been isolated from rabbit liver glycogen. The protein comprised 0.0025% of liver glycogen by mass, 200-fold lower than the glycogenin content of muscle glycogen. Structural analyses, including determination of the amino acid sequence surrounding the glucosylated-tyrosine residue, showed identity with muscle glycogenin. Catalytically active liver glycogenin was partially purified and, like the skeletal muscle protein, catalysed an intramolecular, Mn2+- and UDP-Glc dependent autoglucosylation reaction, forming a primer on which glycogen synthase could act. The results demonstrate that hepatic and muscle glycogenins are almost certainly identical proteins and that liver and skeletal muscle share a common mechanism for the biogenesis of glycogen molecules. The results also indicate that there is about one glycogenin molecule/liver glycogen alpha particle. PMID- 2526737 TI - Both virgin and memory T cells cluster with dendritic cells during autologous and allogeneic mixed leukocyte reaction. AB - The T cell population is comprised of two distinct reciprocal subsets identifiable by UCHL1 and 2H4 antibodies. 2H4+ cells are virgin T cells and UCHL1+ cells are memory T cells. Previously it has been shown that dendritic cells (DC) form clusters with T cells. In this study we have examined the proportions of UCHL1+ and 2h4+ T cell subtypes in DC-T cell clusters. DC and T cells were purified from human peripheral blood and cultured in autologous or allogeneic combinations. Clusters, which were visible after culture for 24-48 h, were separated and the phenotype of the cells in the clusters was analyzed. It was found that the ratio of UCHL1+ and 2H4+ cells was the same among both clustered and nonclustered cells. Autologous clusters contained the same proportions of UCHL1+ and 2H4+ cells as allogeneic clusters. Experiments with separated UCHL1+ and UCHL1- T cells demonstrated that in autologous mixed leukocyte reaction mainly UCHL1- cells proliferated. Separated clusters were cultured for a total period of 7 days, which demonstrated that the majority of the T cells derived either from autologous or allogeneic clusters were UCHL1+ activated blasts. The remaining 2H4+ T cells resembled inactivated T cells. Thus it is concluded that the initial binding of T cells to autologous or allogeneic DC is mediated by a mechanism which is unaffected by the differentiation of virgin T cells into memory T cells. The low proliferative response of memory T cells to autologous DC suggested that clustering with DC does not necessarily lead to proliferative activity. Autoreactive T cells do not differ from alloreactive cells in acquiring the antigenic phenotype of memory T cells after activation. PMID- 2526736 TI - Sequence-dependent enhancement of HCT-8 cell kill by trimetrexate and fluoropyrimidines: implications for the mechanism of this interaction. AB - The new folate antagonist trimetrexate is an inhibitor of dihydrofolate reductase, but unlike methotrexate (MTX) it is not polyglutamylated. We have compared the cell killing effects of MTX and trimetrexate/5-fluorouracil (FUra) and 5-fluoro-2'-deoxyuridine (FdUrd) combinations on HCT-8 cells in vitro, in an attempt to explore indirectly the role of polyglutamylation of the antifol in determining the known sequence-dependent synergism between MTX and FUra. The comparisons were made in a number of equitoxic concentrations and times of exposure. Trimetrexate given for 4, 24 or 48 h followed by FUra, for 4, 24 or 196 h, produced synergistic HTC-8 cell kill, whereas antagonism was observed when FUra preceded or was given simultaneously with trimetrexate. The degree of interaction was essentially identical to those obtained when MTX was combined with FUra. The interactions between MTX/FdUrd and trimetrexate/FdUrd were also similar: synergistic cell kill resulted from the sequences trimetrexate or MTX followed by FdUrd, while additive effects were produced by trimetrexate or MTX + FdUrd combinations or FdUrd followed by MTX or trimetrexate. Because the same interactions observed with MTX/FUra or FdUrd combinations were also obtained when trimetrexate was combined with the fluoropyrimidines, it is unlikely that polyglutamylation of the antifols plays a significant role in determining the different sequence-dependent effects of these antimetabolites. However, these studies do not rule out the possibility that increased levels of dihydrofolate polyglutamates increase fluoropyrimidine cytotoxicity. PMID- 2526738 TI - Regulation by interleukin 2 of CD23 expression of leukemic and normal B cells: comparison with interleukin 4. AB - Recombinant interleukin (IL) 4 has been shown to be able to up-regulate low affinity Fc receptor for IgE (Fc epsilon RII)-CD23 expression on B cells as well as on other human mononuclear cells. We demonstrate here that, in opposition with previous reports, recombinant IL2 also can up-regulate CD23 expression on B cells. This was first observed on CLL cells which represent a monoclonal proliferation of B cells arrested at an intermediate stage of activation. Cells of 5 out of 12 B-CLL studied display such an increase and all 5 proliferated, in vitro, directly in response to IL2. Similarly, upon triggering with anti-mu and IL2, normal tonsillar B lymphocytes also demonstrate an increase of CD23 expression but this was observed only on day 3. Interferon-gamma was able to inhibit this IL2-mediated up-regulation of CD23 on normal B cells but not on CLL B cells; on those cells interferon-gamma was similarly unable to inhibit the IL4 mediated CD23 up-regulation. These results suggest that CD23 regulation is complex and related to the stage of activation and the cell type. PMID- 2526739 TI - Cytokine mRNA levels in antigen-stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells. AB - Levels of cytokine mRNA coding for granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), interleukin (IL) 2, IL 1 beta, IL 4 or IL 6 have been measured by Northern blot analysis after antigen stimulation. As source for RNA we used peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from donors which showed a proliferative response after tetanus toxoid or Candida albicans stimulation. For comparison PBMC were also stimulated with lectins and anti-CD3 antibody. With some variations among donors, antigens clearly induced measurable levels of IFN-gamma, GM-CSF and IL 2 mRNA. Increased levels for IL 6 were also detected after antigen stimulation. In contrast to polyclonal T cell stimuli, antigens showed delayed kinetics of mRNA steady-state levels and resembled in this respect more closely the stimulation with pokeweed mitogen. Thus, cytokine mRNA levels may be assessed in unfractionated PBMC after antigen stimulation. The two tested antigens also clearly show a cytokine pattern distinct from that induced in polyclonal stimulations such as anti-CD3. PMID- 2526740 TI - Proliferation of lymphocyte subsets in the adult rat: a comparison of different lymphoid organs. AB - Adult, male Lewis rats received a single injection of 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdUrd) i.v. to label proliferating cells in the S phase of the cell cycle. After 1 and 24 h the thymus, bone marrow, blood, spleen, peripheral, cervical and mesenteric lymph nodes as well as Peyer's patches were removed. In cell suspensions surface staining was performed for B, T, T helper (Th) and cytotoxic/suppressor (Tc/s) T lymphocytes by identifying kappa light chain, CD5+, CD4+ and CD8+ cells, respectively. On the same slide the DNA label BrdUrd was demonstrated by a monoclonal antibody. B, T, Th and Tc/s lymphocytes proliferate locally both in central lymphoid organs such as the thymus and the bone marrow, and in peripheral lymphoid organs such as the spleen, lymph nodes and Peyer's patches. Within an organ the amount of proliferation among the lymphocyte subsets is similar, differing not more than threefold. Although concerning only a small fraction of cells within the organ, an unexpected finding is the high percentage of BrdUrd-labeled cells among B lymphocytes in the thymus (3%) and among T lymphocytes in the bone marrow (3%). One day after injection of BrdUrd the thymus contains 25% BrdUrd+ T lymphocytes, while the other organs investigated do not show more than about 2% BrdUrd+ B and T lymphocytes. Many of the newly formed lymphocyte subsets leave their organ of birth within 24 h. Thus the amount of proliferation in the lymphocyte subsets investigated is very similar and the differences between central (thymus and bone marrow) and peripheral lymphoid organs are much smaller than expected. PMID- 2526741 TI - Two monoclonal antibodies specific for the T cell receptor V alpha 8. AB - Two monoclonal antibodies, KT50 and KT65, specific for V alpha 8 have been established. This was determined as follows: (a) 4 T cell clones, C6, R1, G22 and I9, out of 43 T cell clones with various antigen specificities, major histocompatibility complex restrictions and V beta usages not only bound KT50 and KT65 but also expressed V alpha 8 mRNA, (b) KT50 and KT65 precipitated molecules from the clone C6 similar to the T cell receptor molecules precipitated in C6 cells by KT11 (anti-V beta 11) or KTL2 (anti-Ti) and (c) KT50 and KT65 were mitogenic and induced cytotoxicity. All strains of mice so far examined have populations of KT50+ and KT65+ T cells of 1.4%-3.6% and 0.9%-2.6%, respectively. Different H-2 haplotypes were not observed to affect the number of cells expressing KT50 or KT65. In addition KT15 (anti-CD8), without cross-linking to KT50 or KT65, augmented proliferation triggered by KT50 or KT65. PMID- 2526742 TI - Human interleukin 6 and tumor necrosis factor alpha production studied at a single-cell level. AB - Individual peripheral blood mononuclear cells, which produced interleukin 6 (IL 6) or tumor necrosis factor alpha, (TNF alpha), were studied by cytokine-specific polyclonal or monoclonal antibodies (mAb) and immunofluorescence technique with UV microscopy. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced IL 6 as well as TNF alpha production in the majority of the monocytes, but not at all in lymphocytes. Approximately every second monocyte made TNF alpha in response to LPS within 0.5 h from start of the cultures, when no IL 6 or TNF alpha production occurred. The maximal number of TNF alpha-synthesizing monocytes was observed 1.5 h later and then rapidly declined. LPS stimulation led to optimal IL 6 production 3 h after initiation of the cultures, with 90% of the monocytes expressing intracellular IL 6. LPS-induced IL 6 synthesis started about 1 h after that of TNF alpha. Polyclonal T cell activation with staphylococcal enterotoxin A or anti-CD3 mAb induced a biphasic production pattern of IL 6 as well as TNF alpha. Early IL 6 synthesis, which peaked 6-8 h from start of the cultures, occurred exclusively in monocytes, while late IL 6 production at 48 h was restricted to a small fraction of lymphoid cells. T cell mitogen induced early TNF alpha production, which peaked at 6 h, took mainly place in monocytes and to a minor degree in CD4+ as well as CD8+ T cells. The majority of the TNF alpha-producing mononuclear cells at 24 h were of the CD4+ T cell lineage in the staphylococcal enterotoxin A- or anti-CD3 mAb-activated cultures. IL 6 as well as TNF alpha accumulated in the Golgi system, which resulted in a characteristic morphology of the staining, eliminating problems with evaluation of background signals. PMID- 2526743 TI - Restricted idiotypic profile of anti-phosphorylcholine antibodies induced by carrier-specific helper T cell clones. AB - The primary antibody response of C57BL/6 mice to phosphorylcholine (PC) is dominated by immunoglobulins of the T15 idiotype family. Using monoclonal antibodies that define individual idiotopes (Id) of T15, it has been shown that the antibody plaque-forming cells (PFC) arise from heterogeneous population of B cells that may express some but not all T15 Id. In the present study, we tested the ability of antigen (keyhole limpet hemocyanin, KLH)-specific CD4+ T cell clones (Th) to provide help for various T15 B cell subsets in response to PC-KLH in vitro. Four independently derived, KLH-specific Th clones were found to provide quantitative help (80-120 PFC/culture of 10(6) B cells) which was comparable to KLH-primed, unselected T cells. However, the response in the presence of the cloned T cells was idiotopically restricted: T15 idiotopes B24-44 and B36-75 were expressed on 60% to 90% PFC, whereas Id AB1-2 and B36-82 were not present (0%-20% PFC). All of these Id were highly expressed in cultures with KLH primed, unselected splenic T cells. Evidently, the cloned Th cells provided help to only a subset of idiotypically distinct B cells. Bulk spleen T cells from unprimed donors by themselves did not provide any help for the primary response to PC-KLH. However, when these cells were added to the cultures containing B cells and KLH-specific Th clones, the repertoire of the response was fully restored, including the AB1-2/B36-82 Id (50%-80% PFC). These results suggest the existence of an auxiliary helper mechanism that may be required for activation of some B cells in addition to the antigen-specific Th cells. PMID- 2526744 TI - Molecular mapping of the human T cell receptor gamma (TRG) genes and linkage of the variable and constant regions. AB - In the human T cell receptor gamma (TRG) locus, fourteen variable (TRGV) genes belonging to four subgroups have been identified upstream of two constant region (TRGC) genes. Three joining segments, JP1, JP and J1, have been localized upstream of TRGC1, and two others, JP2 and J2, upstream of TRGC2. In this report, we demonstrate that a unique Xho I fragment of 120 kilobases (kb) contains the fourteen TRGV genes and that the hybridization of that fragment in pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) allows linkage of the variable region to the constant region locus. We also show that the variable and the constant regions are remarkably close to each other since the distance between V11, the most 3' V gamma gene, and JP1, the most 5' J gamma segment, is only 16 kb. With its 14 V gamma genes, spanning 100 kb, the two C gamma genes and 5 joining segments covering less than 40 kb and only 16 kb separating the most 3' V gene from the most 5' J segment, the human TRG locus spans 160 kb of genomic DNA and represents a particularly condensed locus compared to the other rearranging gene loci. PMID- 2526745 TI - Effect of arginine vasopressin on urine formation and plasma atrial natriuretic peptide level in conscious dogs. AB - We investigated the relationship between plasma arginine vasopressin (AVP) and atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) levels and urine formation in conscious dogs. The rate of urine production and urinary electrolyte excretion were determined following infusion of high doses of AVP to dogs in different volume states. Water deprivation for 24 h induced an antidiuresis while the plasma osmolality, plasma AVP and plasma ANP remained at physiological levels. Subsequent i.v. administration of AVP did not alter the production of urine. Oral water loading (20 ml/kg body weight) induced low plasma AVP levels (1.3 +/- 0.5 pg/ml, mean +/- S.E.M.). Following AVP administration to the water-loaded group, the urine production rate decreased significantly from baseline while the osmolality of the urine increased significantly. Plasma ANP levels did not differ significantly between the two experimental groups, and did not change following i.v. administration of AVP. The results show that, in conscious dogs, (1) the production of a small volume of highly concentrated urine can occur with plasma AVP levels of below 5 pg/ml, (2) 24 h of dehydration induces an antidiuresis while plasma peptides, as well as the different biochemical variables, remain within normal limits, (3) increased plasma AVP levels do not induce a change in plasma ANP levels under these experimental conditions, (4) infusion of AVP induces a significantly increased K+ excretion but only in overhydrated animals. PMID- 2526746 TI - Characterization of colony-forming cells in the human thymus: evidence for a suppressor mechanism. AB - Activation pathways for thymic cell growth remain partially unknown. Thymocytes generally show low growth responses when cultured in the presence of mitogens, especially when T-cell colony formation by these cells is assayed. In the present work we studied the T-cell colony-forming ability of thymic subsets under phytohemagglutinin (PHA) and/or recombinant interleukin 2 (rIL2) stimulation. Our results confirm the low number of T-cell colonies obtained from human thymus as compared to bone marrow and peripheral blood sources. In contrast, significant colony numbers were observed when thymocytes were depleted of CD8+ cells. This increase was due to the suppression exerted by CD8+ cells on both CD4+- and CD4- , CD8- -derived colony precursors. This inhibitory mechanism is dose-dependent and cannot be replaced by media conditioned by CD8+ cells. Limiting dilution analysis corroborates agar assays and points to the existence of T-cell colony forming cells within the double-negative (CD4-, CD8-) thymic subset. PMID- 2526747 TI - Toxoplasma gondii: the biochemical basis of resistance to emimycin. AB - Emimycin was a potent and selective inhibitor of the growth and nucleic acid synthesis of Toxoplasma gondii in human fibroblasts. An emimycin-resistant mutant of T. gondii lost the pyrimidine salvage enzyme uracil phosphoribosyltransferase, the same enzyme absent in parasites resistant to fluorodeoxyuridine. The mutant resistant to emimycin was completely cross-resistant to fluorodeoxyuridine. Emimycin was as good a substrate as uracil for the uracil phosphoribosyltransferase of T. gondii. [3H]Emimycin supplied in the medium of cultures with actively growing intracellular parasites was converted to emimycin riboside-5'-phosphate in the soluble pool of T. gondii. All other emimycin analogs of uracil-containing nucleotides were also formed but little emimycin riboside diphosphate-N-acetylhexosamine was found. [3H]Emimycin was not converted to analogs of the cytidine nucleotides. When intracellular T. gondii were treated with a concentration of [3H]emimycin that partially inhibited parasite RNA synthesis, much less [3H]emimycin was incorporated into RNA than would be predicted by the amount of intracellular [3H]emimycin riboside triphosphate. PMID- 2526748 TI - Some evidence of the enzymatic conversion of bovine suppressor phosphoseryl-tRNA to selenocysteyl-tRNA. AB - In order to clarify the mechanisms of selenocysteine incorporation into glutathione peroxidase, some evidence to show the in vitro conversion of phosphoseryl-tRNA to selenocysteyl-tRNA is reported. [3H]Phosphoseryl-tRNA was incubated in a reaction mixture composed of SeO2, glutathione and NADPH in the presence of selenium-transferase partially purified. Analyses of amino acids on the product tRNA showed that a part (4%) of [3H]phosphoseryl-tRNA was changed to [3H]selenocysteyl-tRNA. The conversion from seryl-tRNAsu or major seryl-tRNAIGA was not found. Selenium-transferase was essential for the conversion. [3H]Selenocysteine, liberated from the tRNA, was modified with iodoacetic acid. The product was confirmed to be carboxymethyl-selenocysteine by two-dimensional TLC. Selenocysteyl-tRNAsu should be used to synthesize glutathione peroxidase by co-translational mechanisms. PMID- 2526749 TI - Brain natriuretic peptide-like immunoreactivity is present in human plasma. AB - A highly specific and sensitive radioimmunoassay (RIA) for a novel porcine brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) has been established to elucidate whether BNP-like immunoreactivity (LI) is present in human plasma. The antibody used was specific for BNP without any crossreactivities with known human atrial natriuretic peptides (hANP). After extraction of human plasma with Sep-Pak cartridge, this assay allowed for detection of BNP-LI as low as 0.1 fmol/tube. In 12 healthy subjects, the mean concentrations of plasma BNP-LI were 1.5 fmol/ml. Reverse phase HPLC coupled with BNP RIA revealed that the single major component with BNP LI, corresponding to porcine BNP(1 26), was apparently distinct from that of alpha-hANP. These data indicate that a small molecular mass form with BNP-LI circulates in human blood. PMID- 2526750 TI - Identification of a wheat germ agglutinin-sensitive ATPase in yeast nuclei. AB - We have found that wheat germ agglutinin (WGA), a lectin that specifically binds to N-acetylglucosamine residues inhibits the in vitro transport of plasmid DNA, pJDB219, into yeast nuclei. Histochemical staining of the isolated nuclei with biotinylated WGA and streptavidin-biotinylated peroxidase complex revealed the presence of WGA-binding materials around the nuclear pore under an electron microscope. Using WGA-agarose column chromatography of yeast nuclear extracts, a novel Mg2+-dependent ATPase was isolated. Its activity was highly sensitive to WGA and stimulated by Nonidet P-40 or phosphatidylserine. We suggest that the WGA sensitive ATPase plays a role in yeast nuclear transport of DNA. PMID- 2526751 TI - The effect of the replacement of ADP with a photoaffinity ATP analogue, 2-azido ADP, in F-actin on its function. AB - 2-Azido-ATP, a photoaffinity ATP analogue, was incorporated into actin and the influence of the incorporation on the actin function was studied. The replacement of ADP with 2-azido-ADP in F-actin both before and after photocross-linking decreased appreciably the actin-activated S1-ATPase activity. Photocross-linked 2 azido-ADP-F-actin could be depolymerized by dialysis against a solution containing 0.1 mM CaCl2, 0.1 mM ATP and 1 mM Tris-HCl (pH 8.0). However, once it depolymerized, it lost very quickly the ability to polymerize even in the presence of a sufficient amount of ATP and Ca2+. PMID- 2526752 TI - CD3/T-cell receptor coupling to a pertussis and cholera toxin-insensitive G protein. AB - We have analyzed the effect of CD3/T-cell receptor stimulation on GTP hydrolysis and GTP binding. We show that stimulation of Jurkat, T-cell, membranes with OKT3 results in a 50% increase in GTP hydrolysis which is specifically inhibited by GDP. Pretreatment of the membranes with neither pertussis toxin nor cholera toxin inhibited the GTP hydrolysis. We also show that stimulation with OKT3 increases the binding of GTP gamma S to Jurkat membranes. These data strongly implicate the involvement of a G-protein in CD3/T-cell receptor signalling. PMID- 2526753 TI - The H+ ATPase regulatory subunit of Methanococcus thermolithotrophicus: amplification of an 800 bp fragment by polymerase chain reaction. AB - An 800 bp fragment of Methanococcus thermolithotrophicus genomic DNA was amplified by the polymerase chain reaction method using primers designed from conserved regions of the V-type H+ ATPase regulatory subunits from the archaebacterium Sulfolobus, and several eukaryotes. Although more than one product was obtained, only one of them had the expected size and was exclusively amplified in the presence of the left and right primers. The DNA and the deduced protein sequences of the putative Methanococcus H+ ATPase subunit revealed homology to the corresponding sequences in Sulfolobus and eukaryotes (about 60% identical residues) and a less evident homology to the eubacterial F1-ATPase alpha-subunit (22% identical residues with E. coli). PMID- 2526754 TI - Human follicular fluid protease and antiprotease activities: a suggested correlation with ability of oocytes to undergo in vitro fertilization. AB - Plasminogen activator activity was determined in human follicular fluids (FFs) obtained during in vitro fertilization procedures. The fibrinolytic activity of plasminogen activator was significantly higher in fluids from follicles that contained oocytes that were later found to fertilize in vitro (group F) as compared with fluids from follicles that contained oocytes that failed to fertilize (NF). To assess whether this difference in overt plasminogen activator activity reflects differences in conversion of an inactive, latent plasminogen activator to the active enzyme, the ability of exogenous trypsin to enhance plasminogen activation was measured. The plasminogen-dependent hydrolysis of the chromogenic substrate S-2444 in presence of trasylol (Bayer, Leverkusen, Germany) was taken as a measure of plasminogen activator activity in these experiments. No activity was found in untreated FFs, while exposure to trypsin resulted in emergence of marked plasminogen activator activity. In addition, FFs exhibited trasylol-sensitive chromogenic activity indicative of serine-protease activity. Both the plasminogen activator and serine-protease levels after tryptic activation were significantly higher in NF than in F samples. Thus, while F samples have most of their plasminogen activator in an active form, NF samples have most of their plasminogen activator in a latent, trypsin-activatable form. Follicular fluids also contain inhibitory activities toward plasmin and trypsin. The inhibition of these enzymes correlates positively with the latency of plasminogen activator. These results suggest a direct relationship between the ability of oocytes to fertilize and the overt to latent plasminogen activator activity ratios in the FFs. PMID- 2526755 TI - Cornual fibroids: a conservative approach to restoring tubal patency using a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (goserelin) with successful pregnancy. AB - The administration of GnRH agonists to shrink fibroids, albeit temporarily, may be of benefit to those patients in whom tubal blockage by the fibroids has given rise to infertility. Tubal patency has been restored in two of our patients, resulting in pregnancy in one. PMID- 2526756 TI - Peritoneal trophoblastic tissue implants after laparoscopic treatment of tubal ectopic pregnancy. AB - A persistent serum titer of beta-hCG 4 weeks after laparoscopic removal of an intratubal pregnancy may be due to PEP (1 case) and/or peritoneal trophoblastic tissue implants (2 cases). In these three patients, a second laparoscopy detected the cause of the elevated hormonal levels and enabled therapy to be carried out at the same time. PMID- 2526757 TI - Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA). PMID- 2526758 TI - Maternal and embryonal/fetal beta-endorphin concentrations during the first trimester of pregnancy. AB - In this study, we have determined the beta-endorphin concentrations in the plasma of 11 cases during the first 3 months of pregnancy, as well as the corresponding products of conception, collected by hysterosuction, during the course of voluntary abortion. The purpose of this study is to compare the values obtained by the analysis of maternal plasma and the material collected by hysterosuction. The beta-endorphin concentrations were obtained by radioimmunologic methods using a kit which allows a separation from beta-lipotropin. The specimens obtained by hysterosuction (8 +/- 1.7 pmol/l) showed significantly higher levels of beta endorphin than those observed in the maternal plasma (2.6 +/- 0.3 pmol/l). Thus, already in the earliest gestational period, the data are consistent with a feto placental origin for this opioid peptide. PMID- 2526759 TI - Isolated complete congenital heart block diagnosed prenatally in Down's syndrome; a case report. AB - A newborn with Down's syndrome complicated by complete atrioventricular (AV) block, despite normal cardiac anatomy, is described. The congenital AV block was diagnosed in utero, and the characteristics of Down's syndrome were recognised after birth. Pitfalls in antenatal diagnosis and management of complete AV block in the fetus are briefly outlined. Identification of fetal karyotype in case of isolated congenital AV block is recommended. PMID- 2526761 TI - Lipocortin. PMID- 2526760 TI - Butyrophilin of milk lipid globule membrane contains N-linked carbohydrates and cross-links with xanthine oxidase. AB - 1. N-glycanase, but not O-glycanase, released carbohydrates from butyrophilin of rat and cow milk lipid globule membranes. 2. 1-Deoxynojirimycin, and inhibitor of glucosidases I and II of the glycoprotein processing pathway, increased the amount or extent of glycosylation of butyrophilin in rat milk lipid globules. 3. Butyrophilin and xanthine oxidase of milk lipid globule membrane had a nearest neighbor relationship, as demonstrated through specific crosslinking of these proteins. 4. From these results it is suggested that butyrophilin has asparagine linked oligosaccharides which bypass the processing apparatus of endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus. Butyrophilin may be responsible for anchoring xanthine oxidase to the inner (cytoplasmic) face of milk lipid globule membrane. PMID- 2526762 TI - Increased beta-cell secretory responsiveness to ceruletide and TPA in streptozocin-induced mildly diabetic rats. AB - We examined the effects of various stimuli on immunoreactive insulin (IRI) and glucagon (IRG) release from perfused pancreases isolated from control and streptozocin-induced diabetic (STZ-D) rats. Diabetes was induced by injecting 30 mg/kg STZ into rats fasted for 16-18 h 12-17 days before our experiments. Glucose (11.1 mM) caused a distinct biphasic pattern of IRI release from the control pancreas, whereas the first phase was marginal and the second phase was absent in the diabetic pancreas. Arginine (20 mM)-induced IRI release was similar in both groups, whereas IRG release was greater in the control rats than in the diabetic rats. Thus, this model of STZ-D simulates a certain class of non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). In these diabetic animals, the cholecystokinin (CCK) analogue ceruletide (620 pM) caused a significantly greater increase in IRI release in the presence of 5.6 mM glucose than in the control rats, but ceruletide caused a similar IRG release in both groups. Because CCK and ceruletide stimulate phosphoinositide turnover in pancreatic islets, we examined the effects of carbachol and phorbol ester TPA on IRI release in the presence of 5.6 mM glucose. Carbachol (10 microM), which is thought to generate similar second messengers as ceruletide, induced greater IRI release in diabetic than in control rats. TPA (100 nM) caused a significantly greater increase in IRI release from the diabetic than the control pancreas. Our results demonstrate that the insulin-releasing mechanism involved in protein kinase C activation is enhanced in this model of NIDDM.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526763 TI - Increased renal aldose reductase activity, immunoreactivity, and mRNA in streptozocin-induced diabetic rats. AB - Increased accumulation of renal sorbitol has been documented in the diabetic rat, and it has been suggested that this accumulation may be important in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy. It is not clear whether sorbitol accumulation results from increases in substrate, activity of the aldose reductase (AR) protein molecule, or activity due to an increase in the amount of enzyme present. In this study, we have quantitated renal AR activity, immunoreactivity, and mRNA in rats 3 mo after induction of diabetes with streptozocin (STZ-D, 65 mg/kg body wt). Renal AR activity was significantly increased in diabetic rats compared with age-matched nondiabetic controls (0.95 +/- 0.05 vs. 0.51 +/- 0.03 U.mg-1.h-1, respectively, P less than .0005). Western blot analysis demonstrated that the antiserums recognized a single 40,000-Mr protein species in renal homogenates from both diabetic and nondiabetic rats. When quantitated in an immunodot assay, AR immunoreactivity was significantly increased in diabetic rats compared with nondiabetic controls (0.57 +/- 0.03 vs. 0.33 +/- 0.02 U, respectively, P less than .0005). Hybridization of Northern blots with a synthetic 36-nucleotide oligomer and an AR cDNA identified a 1.4 kilobase pair transcript; the abundance of the transcript was significantly increased in poly(A)+ RNA from the kidneys of diabetic compared with nondiabetic rats (P less than .005). This study demonstrates that renal AR activity is increased in the STZ-D rats and suggests that the increased AR activity can be in part explained by enhanced AR gene expression. PMID- 2526765 TI - Eating is important. PMID- 2526766 TI - Videofluoroscopic investigation of feeding disorders of children with multiple handicap. AB - Ten patients aged from nine months to 24 years with severe physical and intellectual impairments who had feeding difficulties were investigated by videofluoroscopy of repeated modified barium swallows. In all but one case the swallow reflex was delayed, and seven had poor and inefficient pharyngeal peristalsis. Four aspirated large amounts and three small amounts, all tending to do so with pastes rather than liquids. Recommendations, based on the videofluoroscopic findings, included changes in body and head position and consistency of food and of feeding technique. There were noticeable improvements in meal-time behaviour and reduced coughing and choking. PMID- 2526764 TI - Cardiac performance and plasma lipids of omega-3 fatty acid-treated streptozocin induced diabetic rats. AB - We studied the effect of omega-3 fatty acid (omega 3FA) treatment on plasma lipids and cardiomyopathy in the diabetic rat. The omega 3FA preparation used was Promega. Male Wistar rats (250-275 g) were rendered diabetic by streptozocin (STZ; 55 mg.kg-1). Nondiabetic control rats received the vehicle alone. Two weeks after STZ or vehicle injection, control and diabetic rats were randomly assigned to either a treated or untreated group. Promega was administered at a dose of 0.5 ml.kg-1.day-1 by oral gavage for 4 wk, after which the rats were decapitated, plasma collected, and isolated working heart performance studied. Promega treatment did not affect plasma glucose, triglyceride, or cholesterol concentrations of either the control or diabetic rats. Cardiac performance was assessed by measuring the left ventricular response to changing left atrial filling pressures (7.5-20 cm H2O). The treatment had no effect on peak left ventricular developed pressure (LVDP) or maximal rate of change of left ventricular pressure during systole (+dP/dtmax) or diastole (-dP/dtmax) in the nondiabetic control rats. LVDP and +/- dP/dt were significantly improved (P less than .05) in the treated diabetic rats compared with untreated diabetic rats, although cardiac performance did not improve to the nondiabetic level. Cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) calcium transport activity was not affected by the treatment in the control rats but was significantly improved (P less than .05) in the treated diabetic rats. These data suggest that omega 3FA treatment partially blocks the development of experimental diabetic cardiomyopathy, possibly by affecting SR calcium transport activity. PMID- 2526767 TI - Effect of nicotinamide therapy upon B-cell function in newly diagnosed type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetic patients. AB - This study describes the effects of nicotinamide therapy on B-cell function in Type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetes. C-peptide secretion was studied in 20 patients newly diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at basal state and also after an i.v. glucagon stimulus. Patients were randomly allocated according to a single blind schedule, to one of the following treatments over a 45-day period: Group 1: 10 patients, nicotinamide 1 g/day; Group 2: 10 patients, placebo. The C-peptide secretion tests were performed before treatment and on days 15, 45, 180, 365 of the follow-up. The clinical and metabolic data were similar in the two groups of patients. Basal and stimulated C-peptide levels increased by 45 days in both groups, but the increase in stimulated C-peptide response was greater in the nicotinamide group (p less than 0.01). However, the B-cell function decreased after the period of nicotinamide administration. No difference in the number of clinical remissions or insulin requirement and HbA1 between the groups was observed. These data suggest that treatment of Type 1 diabetes with nicotinamide at diagnosis is associated with a moderate increase of C-peptide secretion recovery. PMID- 2526768 TI - The insulin secretory granule. AB - The insulin secretory granule of the pancreatic B cell is a complex intracellular organelle comprised of a many proteins with different catalytic activities and messenger functions. With the advent of tumour models of the B cells and the application of immunological and molecular cloning techniques considerable progress has been made in recent years towards the elucidation of the structure and function of these granule proteins. A number of examples are selected here for review. Particular emphasis given to how the activities of quite different granule proteins are interdependent and how this contributes to the co-ordination and integration of the organelle's biological functions. PMID- 2526769 TI - Effect of nicotinamide treatment on the residual insulin secretion in type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetic patients. AB - In vivo and in vitro experiments have shown that nicotinamide enhances the regeneration of rat B cells. Nicotinamide has been administered to human subjects at a dose of 3 g/day for more than one year without any serious side effects. A trial was conducted to study if nicotinamide could protect B cells in Type I (insulin-dependent) diabetic patients with established diabetes, but still with residual insulin secretion, the latter being evaluated throughout the study period. A randomized double-blind study was carried out on 26 Type I diabetic patients aged 15 to 40 years who had been treated with insulin for 1 to 5 years but who had a residual insulin secretion characterized by a glucagon stimulated C peptide level higher than 0.1 nmol/l. They were given either 3 g/day of nicotinamide or a placebo for nine months. At baseline the treated and control groups did not differ according to age, diabetes duration, insulin dose, HbA1c or C-peptide levels. Three patients dropped out of the study. At 9 months there were no significant changes in the insulin doses required. However, HbA1c rose in the control group (8.1 +/- 0.4 vs 9.8 +/- 0.5%, p less than 0.05) but not in the nicotinamide treated group (7.5 +/- 0.5 vs 6.9 +/- 0.4%).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526770 TI - [Prevalence of HIV infection and changes in CD4/CD8 ratio in asymptomatic drug addicts]. AB - HIV infection prevalence and CD4/CD8 ratio alterations in asymptomatic heroin abusers. Authors evaluated HIV infection prevalence and presence of possible CD4/CD8 ratio alteration in a asymptomatic heroin abusers' sample. Drug addicts consecutively arrived to Local Health Unit No 12-Drug Addicts Advisory Unit. In this sample, there was a 41% prevalence of HIV infection and significant changes, not attributable to HIV infection, in the CD4/CD8 ratio were not found by comparison with 17 healthy controls. PMID- 2526771 TI - A perspective of the binding change mechanism for ATP synthesis. AB - An overview of research in the field of bioenergetics that led to the development of the binding change mechanism for ATP synthesis is presented, with emphasis on research from the author's laboratory. The text follows closely the Rose Award Lecture given at the 1989 meeting of the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Remarkable advances have revealed that the ubiquitous membrane bound ATP synthase has unusual composition and properties. The enzyme complex has 1, 2, 3, or 9-12 copies of eight or more protein subunits. The catalytic sites are located on three copies of an approximately 55-kDa subunit. It has the strongest positive catalytic cooperativity known for any enzyme. Examples are given of selected experimental results that have provided insights into its mechanism. These include demonstration of the characteristics, location, and function of catalytic and noncatalytic adenine nucleotide binding sites and the incisive information provided by measurement of phosphate oxygen exchanges and distribution of 18(O) in ATP or Pi formed by catalysis. Research from various laboratories gives support to the binding change mechanism in which energy from proton translocation serves principally to promote release of tightly bound ATP, with sequential participation of three catalytic sites. Some speculative suggestions about a rotational catalysis and about the different forms assumed by the ATPase are included. PMID- 2526772 TI - Load dependence of myocardial growth during maturation and aging. PMID- 2526773 TI - [Maturation and aging of the myocardium]. PMID- 2526774 TI - The role of renin-angiotensin system in compound 48/80-induced analgesia in rats. AB - 1. The antinociceptive effect of compound 48/80 was reversed by the pretreatment with an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, Hoe 498, in a dose dependent manner and with a opiate receptor antagonist, naloxone (5.0 mg/kg, s.c.) in rats. 2. The increase of plasma beta-endorphin-like immunoreactivity produced through s.c. administration of compound 48/80 was attenuated by the pretreatment with Hoe 498 but not with naloxone. 3. The present data suggest the possible involvement of renin-angiotensin system in compound 48/80-induced analgesia in rats. PMID- 2526775 TI - Increase of plasma beta-endorphins in connective tissue massage. AB - 1. Connective tissue massage produces relief of pain and increases microcirculation in a number of vascular beds. 2. The concentration of plasma beta-endorphins has been measured in 12 volunteers before and 5, 30 and 90 min after a 30-min session of connective tissue massage. 3. There was a moderate mean increase of 16% in beta-endorphin levels from 20.0 to 23.2 pg/0.1 ml (P = 0.025), lasting for about 1 hr with a maximum in the test 5 min after termination of the massage. 4. It is assumed that the release of beta-endorphins is linked with the pain relief and feeling of warmth and well-being associated with the treatment. PMID- 2526776 TI - Simulation of Huntington's disease onset. AB - Previous investigators have noted that the type of sampling scheme used to study the natural history of Huntington's disease can affect the observed age of onset distribution. Simulated data are presented to demonstrate that bias is introduced when onset characteristics derived from prevalence samples (i.e., samples of affected individuals alive in the population) are used to evaluate cofactors of disease onset and to compute genetic risk estimates for persons "at risk" of developing the disease. This study demonstrates that prevalence sampling underestimates the proportion of Huntington's disease cases in the population with later onset ages. Using plausible values for onset time, duration, and life expectancy, simulation results suggest that the paternal transmission effect on Huntington's disease onset is overestimated when based on prevalence data. PMID- 2526777 TI - Organization of the bacteriophage P1 tail-fibre operon. AB - The revised sequence of a bacteriophage P1 DNA fragment containing the 5' end of the tail-fibre gene, gene 19, revealed that this gene is closely preceded by another open reading frame (ORF) of 432 bp. We have designated this ORF as gene R. The tail-fibre gene and gene R are transcriptionally and translationally coupled. Thus, the tail-fibre operon of bacteriophage P1 consists of three genes: gene R, gene 19 (or gene S) and gene U. PMID- 2526778 TI - Initiator tRNAMet genes from the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. AB - Five different members of the initiator tRNAMet gene family have been isolated and characterized from the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. All five show identical tRNA coding sequences, followed by a block of T residues associated with termination by RNA polymerase III. Nucleotide sequences flanking the tDNAs are completely divergent, except for two distinct members with identical flanking sequences, which may have arisen from a recent gene duplication event. Each tDNA is also flanked by middle-repetitive DNA, but the lack of cross-hybridization to each other suggests that these repetitive sequences have no common functional significance. The tRNAMeti genes do not appear to be closely linked to each other, although in vitro transcription reveals a putative tDNA adjacent to one member. Finally, there are large differences in the extent to which the five genes are transcribed by a homologous C. elegans cell-free extract, suggesting that flanking sequences have a significant effect on transcription by RNA polymerase III. PMID- 2526780 TI - Unmet needs and barriers to service delivery for the blind and visually impaired elderly. AB - Reported is a state-wide survey of aging and blindness agencies. Shown by the findings was that a large percentage of aging agencies are not addressing the needs of the aging blind population. In addition, the lack of interaction between the two systems is a major service delivery barrier. Suggested by the data was the need for improvement in understanding the needs, resources, and areas of expertise of each system, with additional training and better communications between the systems being especially important. PMID- 2526779 TI - Characterization, overproduction and purification of the product of gene 1 of Bacillus subtilis phage phi 29. AB - Unit-length phi 29 DNA was not synthesized after restrictive infection of Bacillus subtilis with the phi 29 mutant sus1(629) indicating that the phage phi 29 protein p1 is needed for the viral DNA replication. Sequencing of the ORF-6 of mutant sus1(629) showed that a C in the wild-type (wt) phage had been changed to a T at nt position 19 of the ORF-6, giving rise to a TAA ochre codon, indicating that this ORF corresponds to gene 1. ORF-6 was cloned in plasmid pPLc28 under the control of the pL promoter of phage lambda and, after induction, a protein of about 10 kDa was overproduced, which was absent in the corresponding cells harbouring a recombinant plasmid with the sus1(629) mutation, indicating that the 10-kDa protein is the product of gene 1. In addition, a protein of lower Mr was synthesized after induction of the cells harbouring recombinant plasmids with the wt or the sus1(629) DNA. Both proteins were purified and characterized by N terminal sequence determination and amino acid analysis. The low-Mr protein, named delta 1, has a size of 6 kDa and corresponds to an internal in-phase initiation event in ORF-6. PMID- 2526781 TI - Informal versus formal supports for impaired elderly people: determinants of choice on Israeli kibbutzim. AB - Among 269 functionally impaired elderly people residing on 53 Israeli kibbutzim, those cared for principally by informal caregivers were compared with those cared for principally by formal caregivers. The major findings were that the variables differentiating between primary reliance on formal versus informal care are similar to those that have been found in other studies, and that the availability of formal resources was not accompanied by withdrawal of informal supports. PMID- 2526782 TI - Factors relating to institutional risk among elderly members of Israeli kibbutzim. AB - Characteristics of 269 functionally impaired elderly persons and their primary caregivers were examined in relation to long-term care planning. Contrary to expectation, there were no differences in rates of institutional risk between those elderly residents of Israeli kibbutzim cared for primarily by formal caregivers and cared for by informal caregivers. Lack of informal caregivers emerged as an important risk factor for institutional risk, even in the service rich environment of kibbutzim. PMID- 2526784 TI - [The psychological status of acne patients. Personality structure and physician patient relations]. AB - The results of various studies dealing with the situation and psychological state of acne sufferers and their relationship to their doctors are presented. It was shown that out of approximately 2.7 to 3.5 million acne sufferers, only some 500,000 are presently undergoing medical treatment. Failure to seek medical treatment is closely associated with the fact that acne sufferers for the most part expect to be disappointed with the results. For a number of psychological reasons (self-consciousness, contact difficulties, low level of frustration tolerance) a substantial number of acne sufferers are particularly sensitive to actual or supposed lack of acceptance on the part of their doctors. Greater consideration of their psychological situation might improve the therapeutic outcome, increase compliance, and lead to a greater confidence in the doctor. PMID- 2526783 TI - Defective suppression in the autologous mixed lymphocyte reaction in patients with Crohn's disease. AB - T helper and suppressor cell control of autologous immunoglobulin production was measured in 14 patients with Crohn's disease (CD) using autologous B cells or monocytes to stimulate regulatory T-cell activity. A pronounced defect in suppressor cell function was observed in the patient group but not in matched controls irrespective of whether B cells or monocytes were used as the stimulus. This defect was observed for IgG, A and M. This defect was seen both in patients with active disease and with inactive CD suggesting the possibility that a primary regulatory defect might exist in this disease. The patient group displayed normal helper cell function. PMID- 2526785 TI - [A torment for almost everyone: backache]. PMID- 2526786 TI - [Backache--causes, diagnosis and therapy]. AB - Low back pain is considered to be a symptom of a variety of changes and disorders affecting the lumbar spine, the sacrococcyx and pelvis, but it may also be a symptom of disorders affecting the neighboring organs. If these points are taken into account and an accurate diagnostic evaluation including such modern procedures as scintigraphy, CT and MR imaging, low back pain can now--in contrast to 50 years ago--be analysed, and often treated with considerable success. In many cases, conservative treatment proves possible. In the presence of relevant morphological findings, however, various surgical procedures, developed in particular in recent years, offer new possibilities. PMID- 2526787 TI - [Therapeutic local anesthesia in backache]. AB - Low back pain for which operative therapy is not indicated, can prove resistant to treatment even with the aggressive application of conservative measures and the use of suitable drugs. Here, local anesthesia can often have a decisive influence on pain. On account of possible complications, particular consideration must be given to pharmacological aspects. Moreover, certain minimum demands must be met by the equipment and personnel staffing of a pain clinic, and also the possibilities for monitoring the patient. Within the framework of an interdisciplinary pain clinic, the various blockade techniques employed for therapeutic local anesthesia provide suitable possibilities for combatting this type of pain. PMID- 2526788 TI - [Surgical therapy of backache]. AB - Apart from disc prolapse, there is a range of other disorders associated with low back pain, for which, when all conservative efforts have failed, surgical treatment should be offered. It must be emphasized, however, that the indication for surgery needs to be rigorously applied, since the most common cause of failure of surgical therapy is an erroneous surgical indication. Here, the clarification of the cause of the pain and not the diagnosis per se is decisive. In particular in degenerative disorders of the lumbar spine in the elderly, the diagnoses established often have little pathological value. Unfortunately, in many cases the real cause of low back pain still cannot be clarified with certainty. Our experience to date, however, in particular with the use of modern implants, shows that, in cases of lumbar spinal stenosis especially, tumors and pronounced segmental instability, excellent results can be achieved with surgery. PMID- 2526789 TI - Attenuated diuretic and natriuretic effects of atrial natriuretic peptide in rats with heart failure. AB - Plasma levels of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and renal responses to ANP were examined in rats with chronic cardiac failure produced by coronary artery ligation and in sham-operated controls. Plasma ANP levels were elevated in the rats with severe cardiac failure as compared with the controls (P less than 0.001). ANP injections at the doses of 1, 5, 25 and 50 micrograms/kg increased water and sodium excretion significantly at all but the lowest dose in the controls; only the two largest doses caused clear diuresis and natriuresis in the heart failure group. The diuretic and natriuretic effects of ANP were significantly weaker at the doses of 5 and 25 micrograms/kg in the rats with heart failure as compared with the controls. We conclude, that natriuretic and diuretic effects of ANP are attenuated in this chronic heart failure mode. PMID- 2526790 TI - Decreased in vitro susceptibility of penicillinase producing Neisseria gonorrhoeae to spectinomycin in Hong Kong. PMID- 2526791 TI - Systemic complications and their management during dental treatment. AB - According to data obtained from the Japanese Dental Society and from Osaka University Dental Hospital, systemic complications during dental treatment fall into one of two categories; one set of complications has no relationship to underlying disease, and the other is related to disease status. In the former category there are the hyperventilation syndrome and neurogenic shock and in the latter, cerebrovascular accidents and heart disease are prominent, particularly in the geriatric patient. The pathophysiology of neurogenic shock and hyperventilation syndrome is explained. The influences of epinephrine and norepinephrine on the young healthy adult, the older healthy adult and on the patient with cardiac disease have been investigated by means of the Systolic Time Interval (STI) method and echocardiography. In the evaluation of likely haemodynamic changes during dental treatment, examination of the fundus oculi is recommended. Glyceryl trinitrate infusion, sublingual glyceryl trinitrate and isosorbide dinitrate tape have been introduced as agents for blood pressure control during dental treatment. From the dentists' standpoint, the evaluation of the patient with various cardiovascular disorders is described. PMID- 2526792 TI - Severe dermatologic toxicity from 5-fluorouracil in the presence of seborrheic dermatitis. PMID- 2526793 TI - Complications of topical antimicrobial agents. PMID- 2526794 TI - Complications of corticosteroid and immunosuppressive drugs. PMID- 2526795 TI - Complications of intravenous fluorescein injections. PMID- 2526797 TI - The Women's Health and Reproductive Rights Campaign on depo provera. More than just a little prick. PMID- 2526796 TI - Reduction-modifiable properties of Moloney murine leukemia virus gp70 as an indicator of envelope glycoprotein heterogeneity. AB - We have found that preparations of rate-zonal purified Moloney murine leukemia virus originally obtained from the National Cancer Institute Resources Program, when separated by SDS-PAGE in the absence of mercaptoethanol (beta-MSH), exhibited a doublet envelope glycoprotein band of approximately 69/67 kD. When the same samples were run in the presence of beta-MSH, a single band at 70 kD (gp70) was observed. Western blot analysis with polyclonal antiserum identified both the 69- and 67-kD bands as envelope gene products. Tryptic peptide mapping of each of the gp67 and gp69 bands confirmed the serological data, with each showing conserved as well as unique peptides. These results imply that the Moloney murine leukemia virus samples examined above contain two structurally different envelope gene products. Western blot analysis using ecotropic and dualtropic specific sera suggest that gp69 is derived from an ecotropic virus, while gp67 is from a dualtropic virus. This is consistent with the results of an earlier study which showed that the majority of the cysteines (4/5) in dualtropic gp70 are lost by a single deletion relative to the ecotropic gp70 species. This would account for the difference in mobility observed in the SDS-PAGE profile in the absence of beta-MSH. It would indicate that the cysteines play an important role in defining structural differences that separate the ecotropic and dualtropic gp70s. PMID- 2526798 TI - Transluminal angioplasty in arterial disease: new developments. AB - In recent years, non-surgical solutions to arterial disease have demonstrated high primary success rate with morbidity and mortality lower as compared to surgical procedures. Except for very long chronic occlusions most arterial lesions are accessible to transluminal techniques. The main drawbacks, however, remain acute occlusion and recurrence. Both problems are now being attacked by more sophisticated techniques including mechanical removal or vaporization of intraluminal material, and placement of mechanical intravascular supports. The largest series of the latter method is described in more detail. PMID- 2526799 TI - Effects of anti-interleukin-2 receptor antibody and cyclosporin A on human T cell proliferation in primary mixed lymphocyte reaction. AB - Effects of anti-IL2 receptor antibody (anti-IL2 RAb) and cyclosporin A (CsA) on human T cell proliferation in primary mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) were investigated. Both agents inhibited the proliferative response induced by alloantigen in a dose dependent manner when they were added at the initiation of culture. We also analyzed the expression of activation antigen on responder cells and the kinetics of T lymphocyte subset proliferation during MLR using two-color flow cytometry. Cells expressing activation antigens, such as IL-2 receptor and HLA-DR, were found less frequently in anti-IL2 RAb-treated MLR culture (4.8%) than in CsA-treated MLR culture (16.5%) on day 6. Furthermore, proliferation of CD8+CD11- cells, considered a cytotoxic T cell subset, were inhibited significantly more in anti-IL2 RAb-treated MLR culture than in CsA-treated MLR culture. We further demonstrate that CsA inhibits preferentially IL-2 production and anti-IL2 RAb inhibits T cell proliferation by blocking an absorption of IL-2 by activated lymphocytes. These data suggest that anti-IL2 RAb selectively inhibits alloantigen-activated T cells and may prove to be of significant value as an immunosuppressive agent in clinical organ transplantation. PMID- 2526800 TI - Histochemical study on the atrophy of the quadriceps femoris muscle caused by knee joint injuries of rats. AB - Atrophy developing in the quadriceps femoris muscle following knee injury is one of the serious problems not only in the field of orthopedics but also of rehabilitation. However the pathogenesis of this atrophy has not yet been elucidated. The author therefore produced a complex ligament injury model using the knee joints of rats in order to study the pathogenesis of this atrophy. After severing the anterior cruciate ligament, the medial collateral ligament and tibial insertion of the medial meniscus of rats, these animals were sacrificed at 4, 8 and 12 weeks. After removing the vastus lateralis muscle, vastus medialis muscle, and rectus femoris muscle, specimens of these muscles were stained for ATPase. The transection area of the muscle fibers was measured and the fiber type composition was determined. At 4 weeks the vastus medialis muscle and at 12 weeks the vastus lateralis muscle showed marked atrophy. The rectus femoris muscle exhibited the least atrophy throughout the entire observation period. In examining the atrophy of the quadriceps femoris muscle by muscle fiber type, the degree of atrophy was found to differ among the venters and even the same venter showed a different reaction depending on the elapsed time after sustaining the injury. Neither changes in the fiber type composition not neurogenic findings could be observed. PMID- 2526801 TI - Hearing-impaired patients in the medical setting. AB - Physicians may encounter unique problems in providing medical services to patients with severe hearing impairments, and they may not be aware of the legal rights of these patients to specific services under section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Most physicians have relatively little contact with the hearing impaired and thus are unprepared for the unique challenges presented by this population. The authors present basic information needed by physicians and their staffs to appropriately serve the hearing impaired. PMID- 2526802 TI - Subcutaneous abscesses and arthritis caused by a probable bacterial L-form in cats. AB - Three cats in one household developed pyogenic subcutaneous abscesses and arthritis over a period of 9.5 months. Despite vigorous surgical and antibiotic treatment, the infections in each of these cats continued to spread locally and hematogenously to involve other joints and subcutaneous sites. Although the infections did not respond to modern broad-spectrum antibiotics, they were susceptible to tetracycline. In spite of a favorable response to tetracycline, all 3 cats were euthanatized. A causative agent could not be identified by microbiologic culture of tissues obtained prior to death and at necropsy, or with special tissue stains. The infection was transmitted experimentally by sc inoculation with cell-free material from one of the naturally infected cats to a specific-pathogen-free cat. A tissue extract from the experimentally infected cat was, in turn, infectious for another specific-pathogen-free cat. The experimentally induced lesion was a rapidly enlarging necrotizing and pyogenic cellulitis and panniculitis, with no demonstrable causative agent by special tissue stains or microbiologic culture. A probable bacterial L-form was visualized in affected tissues of the experimentally infected cats and propagated in special L-form broth. Like the natural disease, infection in experimentally inoculated cats was progressive in nature, but could be treated successfully with tetracycline. PMID- 2526803 TI - Congenital cranioventral abdominal wall, caudal sternal, diaphragmatic, pericardial, and intracardiac defects in cocker spaniel littermates. AB - Five littermate Cocker Spaniels were born with concomitant pericardial, diaphragmatic, caudal sternal, and cranioventral abdominal wall defects. Three of the 5 pups had ventricular septal defects. A sixth pup with a cranioventral abdominal wall defect died 4 days after birth. No history of teratogen exposure was reported, and none of the pups from previous litters of the dam was affected. Each pup underwent successful surgical correction (without median sternotomy) of the diaphragmatic and cranial abdominal wall defects when they were 10 to 12 weeks old. The ventricular septal defects were not corrected. In 2 of 3 pups with ventricular septal defects, thoracic radiography 6 months after surgery revealed moderate generalized cardiomegaly. All pups were healthy one year after surgery. PMID- 2526804 TI - Nucleotide sequence and genetic characterization of staphylococcal bacteriophage L54a int and xis genes. AB - The nucleotide sequence of a staphylococcal bacteriophage L54a DNA fragment containing genes involved in site-specific recombination was determined. Mutations generated by in vitro mutagenesis were used to map and characterize the int and xis genes. The site-specific recombination functions are tightly clustered within a 1.75-kilobase stretch of DNA fragment with the gene order of attP-int-xis. The int and xis genes are transcribed divergently. The Int protein deduced from the nucleotide sequence has a molecular weight of 41,000. Int is a basic protein with 354 amino acids of which 72 are basic and 38 are acidic. The Xis protein consists of only 59 amino acids with a molecular weight of 7,180. Unlike the Xis proteins of the lambdoid bacteriophages which are all basic proteins, L54a Xis is an acidic protein containing 13 acidic and 8 basic amino acids. The Int protein is required in both integrative and excisive reactions, whereas Xis is only required in excisive reaction. A well-conserved 40-residue region, including three perfectly conserved residues found in 15 site-specific recombinases of the integrase family that have been characterized, was also found in the L54a Int protein. PMID- 2526805 TI - A component of the side tail fiber of Escherichia coli bacteriophage lambda can functionally replace the receptor-recognizing part of a long tail fiber protein of the unrelated bacteriophage T4. AB - The distal part of the long tail fiber of Escherichia coli bacteriophage T4 consists of a dimer of protein 37. Dimerization requires the catalytic action of protein 38, which is encoded by T4 and is not present in the virion. It had previously been shown that gene tfa of the otherwise entirely unrelated phage lambda can functionally replace gene 38. Open reading frame (ORF) 314, which encodes a protein that exhibits homology to a COOH-terminal area of protein 37, is located immediately upstream of tfa. The gene was cloned and expressed in E. coli. An antiserum against the corresponding polypeptide showed that it was present in phage lambda. The serum also reacted with the long tail fibers of phage T4 near their free ends. An area of the gene encoding a COOH-terminal region of ORF 314 was recombined, together with tfa, into the genome of T4, thus replacing gene 38 and a part of gene 37 that codes for a COOH-terminal part of protein 37. Such T4-lambda hybrids, unlike T4, required the presence of outer membrane protein OmpC for infection of E. coli B. An ompC missense mutant of E. coli K-12, which was still sensitive to T4, was resistant to these hybrids. We conclude that the ORF 314 protein represents a subunit of the side tail fibers of phage lambda which probably recognize the OmpC protein. ORF 314 was designated stf (side tail fiber). The results also offer an explanation for the very unusual fact that, despite identical genomic organizations, T4 and T2 produce totally different proteins 38. An ancestor of T4 from the T2 lineage may have picked up tfa and stf from a lambdoid phase, thus possibly demonstrating horizontal gene transfer between unrelated phage species. PMID- 2526807 TI - Characteristics of specific bindings of nitrendipine and PN200-110 to various crude membranes: induction of irreversible bindings by UV irradiation. AB - The characteristics of the specific bindings of [3H]nitrendipine (Nit) and [3H](+)PN200-110 (PN) to crude membranes from rat skeletal, cardiac, and uterine muscle and whole brain were investigated, with special interest in the effect of UV irradiation on these bindings. The specific bindings of [3H]Nit and [3H](+)PN to these crude membranes were saturable and reversible. The specific bindings of [3H]Nit to all these membranes except crude skeletal membranes was maximum in the presence of 0.15 M NaCl plus 1 mM CaCl2 and minimal in the absence of these ions, but the specific bindings of [3H](+)PN to these crude membranes was not affected significantly by these ions. A calcium agonist and antagonists inhibited the specific bindings of [3H]Nit and [3H](+)PN to these crude membranes, the order of their inhibitory effects on specific [3H]Nit bindings being roughly Nit greater than or equal to (+)PN greater than or equal to (-)PN much greater than Bay K 8644 (Bay) greater than verapamil (Ver) greater than diltiazem (Dil). In crude skeletal membranes only, PN caused significant stereospecific inhibition. The order of inhibitions of specific [3H](+)PN bindings to these crude membranes was generally (+)PN greater than Nit greater than or equal to (-)PN greater than Bay much greater than Ver greater than or equal to Dil. In all these crude membranes, UV irradiation completely prevented decrease in the amount of specific binding of [3H](+)PN binding on addition of excess unlabeled (+)PN. These findings suggested that [3H]Nit and [3H](+)PN bind to voltage-sensitive calcium channels in crude membranes from rat skeletal, cardiac, and uterine muscle and whole brain, and that UV irradiation changes the specific bindings of [3H]Nit and [3H](+)PN from reversible to irreversible bindings. PMID- 2526806 TI - Volume regulation in Mycoplasma gallisepticum: evidence that Na+ is extruded via a primary Na+ pump. AB - The primary extrusion of Na+ from Mycoplasma gallisepticum cells was demonstrated by showing that when Na+-loaded cells were incubated with both glucose (10 mM) and the uncoupler SF6847 (0.4 microM), rapid acidification of the cell interior occurred, resulting in the quenching of acridine orange fluorescence. No acidification was obtained with Na+-depleted cells or with cells loaded with either KCl, RbCl, LiCl, or CsCl. Acidification was inhibited by dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (50 microM) and diethylstilbesterol (50 microM), but not by vanadate (100 microM). By collapsing delta chi with tetraphenylphosphonium (200 microM) or KCl (25 mM), the fluorescence was dequenched. The results are consistent with a delta chi-driven uncoupler-dependent proton gradient generated by an electrogenic ion pump specific for Na+. The ATPase activity of M. gallisepticum membranes was found to be Mg2+ dependent over the entire pH range tested (5.5 to 9.5). Na+ (greater than 10 mM) caused a threefold increase in the ATPase activity at pH 8.5, but had only a small effect at pH 5.5. In an Na+-free medium, the enzyme exhibited a pH optimum of 7.0 to 7.5, with a specific activity of 30 +/- 5 mumol of phosphate released per h per mg of membrane protein. In the presence of Na+, the optimum pH was between 8.5 and 9.0, with a specific activity of 52 +/- 6 mumol. The Na+-stimulated ATPase activity at pH 8.5 was much more stable to prolonged storage than the Na+-independent activity. Further evidence that two distinct ATPases exist was obtained by showing that M. gallisepticum membranes possess a 52-kilodalton (kDa) protein that reacts with antibodies raised against the beta-subunit of Escherichia coli ATPase as well as a 68-kDa protein that reacts with the anti-yeast plasma membrane ATPases antibodies. It is postulated that the Na+ -stimulated ATPases functions as the electrogenic Na+ pump. PMID- 2526809 TI - Propagation of Acto-S-1 ATPase reaction-coupled conformational change in actin along the filament. AB - F-Actin was partially cross-linked to myosin subfragment-1 (S-1) at various molar ratios (r = S-1/actin) with 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimide. The cross-linked acto-S-1 ATPase showed so called "super-activation," Vx. S-1 was added further to the cross-linked acto-S-1 and the ATPase activity, Vy, was measured. Since the added S-1 can interact only with the bare actin protomers within the cross-linked actin filament, the difference, delta V = Vy - Vx - Vs (where Vs is the ATPase activity of the additional S-1 alone), can indicate the state of the bare actin protomers while the cross-linked acto-S-1 is hydrolyzing ATP. With increasing r, delta V decreased much more rapidly than delta Vo(1 - r) (where delta Vo is delta V at r = 0) and reached a minimum around r = 0.15. As r increased further, delta V approached the level of delta Vo(1 - r). When SH1/SH2 blocked S-1 was cross-linked to F-actin, delta V decreased according to delta Vo(1 - r). Therefore, the large reduction of delta V, observed when intact S-1 was cross-linked, was coupled to the high ATPase activity of the cross-linked acto-S-1. Combining these data with other kinetic data, we could deduce that structural distortion in a cross-linked actin induced by the ATPase reaction of the S-1 partner propagated over several bare actin protomers along the filament and reduced their affinity for the S-1-ADP-Pi complex.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526808 TI - Purification of limited tryptic fragments of Ca2+,Mg2+-adenosine triphosphatase of the sarcoplasmic reticulum and identification of conformation-sensitive cleavage sites. AB - Sarcoplasmic reticulum membranes were treated with trypsin, and samples enriched with A1a, A1b, and C fragments (Saito, K. et al. (1984) J. Biochem. 95, 1297 1304), respectively, were prepared. A1b and C fragments were purified to apparent homogeneity, and an approximately equimolar mixture of A1(Met1-Arg198), A1a, and A1b fragments free from other contaminants was also obtained through gel permeation and hydroxylapatite chromatography in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate. N- and C-terminal amino acid sequence analyses of these peptides were carried out in order to identify the tryptic cleavage sites responsible for the formation of these fragments. Both A1a and A1b fragments had the same C-terminal sequence as A1 fragment. Single cleavage of A1 at T3a (Lys218-Ala219) yielded A1a, while a cleavage between either Lys234-Ile235 or Arg236-Asp237 (collectively designated as T3b) resulted in A1b fragment. Thus, A1a and A1b fragments differed from A1 fragment only by their loss of short stretches corresponding to the N terminal region of the latter. On the other hand, C fragment represented the C terminal half of B fragment (Ala506-Gly994). It had the same C-terminal sequence as B fragment and was produced by cleavage at T4 (Lys728-Thr729). Cleavages at T3a and T3b profoundly affected the catalytic properties of SR-ATPase (Imamura, Y. and Kawakita, M. (1986) J. Biochem. 100, 133-141), and it was suggested that the segment of the ATPase molecule including the region between Ala199 and Arg236 is important in mediating the coupling between ATP splitting and Ca2+-transport. PMID- 2526810 TI - Hysteretic behavior of an ATPase from the archaebacterium, Halobacterium saccharovorum. AB - The membrane-bound detergent-activated ATPase from Halobacterium saccharovorum was purified at a physiological salt concentration (4 M NaCl) in the presence of nonionic detergents. The preparation contains putative subunits of 110, 71, 31, 22, and 14 kDa. The enzyme activity required high salt concentration but was not dependent on any one specific monovalent cation or any anion. The hydrolysis of ATP was nonlinear with time; the data are consistent with a kinetic model where the enzyme is irreversibly converted from an initial into a final stable form during the first few minutes of the reaction. The model thus contains a rate constant (k) for the transition and hydrolytic rates, v1 and v2, for the two forms of the enzyme. We found that this hysteretic behavior was influenced differently by various conditions and inhibitors. The constant k was smaller with Mn2+ than with Mg2+ as the divalent cation, showed negative temperature dependence, and a distinct pH optimum between 7.5 and 8.5. Thiols decreased k, but nitrate, a specific inhibitor of archaebacterial ATPases, increased it. ADP showed competitive inhibition against both the initial and the final form of the enzyme. Nitrate reversibly inhibited only the latter and in a manner dependent on whether Mn2+ or Mg2+ was used. The kinetic data suggest that all agents tested, with effects on the hydrolytic activity, seem to act at or near the catalytic site of the enzyme. PMID- 2526811 TI - Functional consequences of alterations to amino acids located in the catalytic center (isoleucine 348 to threonine 357) and nucleotide-binding domain of the Ca2+-ATPase of sarcoplasmic reticulum. AB - The sequence of 10 amino acids (ICSDKTGTLT357) at the site of phosphorylation of the rabbit fast twitch muscle Ca2+-ATPase is highly conserved in the family of cation-transporting ATPases. We changed each of the residues flanking Asp351, Lys352, and Thr353 to an amino acid differing in size or polarity and assayed the mutant for Ca2+ transport activity and autophosphorylation with ATP or P1. We found that conservative changes (Ile----Leu, Thr----Ser, Gly----Ala) or the alteration of Cys349 to alanine did not destroy Ca2+ transport activity or phosphoenzyme formation, whereas nonconservative changes (Ile----Thr, Leu----Ser) did disrupt function. These results indicate that very conservative changes in the amino acids flanking Asp351, Lys352, and Thr353 can be accommodated. A number of mutations were also introduced into amino acids predicted to be involved in nucleotide binding, in particular those in the conserved sequences KGAPE519, RDAGIRVIMITGDNK629, and KK713. Our results indicate that amino acids KGAPE519, Arg615, Gly618, Arg620, and Lys712-Lys713 are not essential for nucleotide binding, although changes to Lys515 diminished Ca2+ transport activity but not phosphoenzyme formation. Changes of Gly626 and Asp627 abolished phosphoenzyme formation with both ATP and Pi, indicating that these residues may contribute to the conformation of the catalytic center. PMID- 2526812 TI - Asynchronous transport to the cell surface of intestinal brush border hydrolases is not due to differential trimming of N-linked oligosaccharides. AB - Intestinal brush border enzyme glycoproteins are transported to the microvillar membrane at different rates in the differentiated intestinal cell line Caco-2. This asynchronism is due to at least two rate-limiting events, a pre- and an intra-Golgi step (Stieger B., Matter, K., Baur, B., Bucher, K., Hochli, M., and Hauri, H.P. (1988) J. Cell Biol. 106, 1853-1861). A possible cause for the asynchronous protein transport might be differential trimming of N-linked oligosaccharide side chains. The effects of two trimming inhibitors on the intracellular transport of sucrase-isomaltase, a slowly migrating hydrolase, and dipeptidylpeptidase IV, a rapidly migrating hydrolase, are described. 1 Deoxymannojirimycin, an inhibitor of Golgi alpha-mannosidase I, had no influence on the rate of appearance of these hydrolases in the brush border membrane as assessed by subcellular fractionation. In the presence of N-methyl-1 deoxynojirimycin, an inhibitor of glucosidase I, 30-40% of the newly synthesized molecules appeared at the cell surface, and half-time for appearance of this pool was identical to that found in control cells. The reduced maximal transport to the cell surface observed with N-methyl-1-deoxynojirimycin may suggest that proper glycosylation is necessary for an efficient transport from the Golgi apparatus to the microvillar membrane. Inhibition of glucosidase I does not prevent the acquisition of endoglycosidase H resistance. Furthermore, evidence is presented that the processing in the presence of N-methyl-1-deoxynojirimycin leads to glycosylated endoglycosidase H-resistant glycoproteins. PMID- 2526813 TI - Phorbol ester induces increased expression, altered glycosylation, and reduced adhesion of K562 erythroleukemia cell fibronectin receptors. AB - The human multipotential hematopoietic cell line K562 expresses fibronectin receptor (FNR) subunits of 160 kDa (alpha chain) and 120 kDa (beta chain). Treatment with 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate (TPA) led to reduced binding of K562 to immobilized fibronectin (FN), although treated cells expressed 10-fold more cell surface FNR than untreated cells. Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis analysis confirmed this and showed altered electrophoretic mobilities of FNR subunits from TPA-treated cells. TPA treatment affected N linked glycosylation, as tunicamycin treatment of K562 cells abolished differences in FNR mobility. Sialidase treatment of FNR immunoprecipitates minimized and sialidase treatment of intact cells eliminated these mobility differences between subunits from control and TPA-treated cells. Reduced sialylation of FNR from TPA-treated cells was further demonstrated by chromatography with bead-coupled lectins and by the greater negative charge of untreated K562 FNR subunits in two-dimensional isoelectric focusing polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. A relationship between reduced FNR sialylation and reduced FN binding was suggested by adhesion assays of sialidase treated K562 which showed that desialylation of cell surface FNR was associated with decreased cell adhesion. Thus, TPA treatment reduces the function, increases the expression, and alters the structure of K562 FNR, and these changes appear to involve FNR sialylation. PMID- 2526814 TI - Monoclonal antibody AA4, which inhibits binding of IgE to high affinity receptors on rat basophilic leukemia cells, binds to novel alpha-galactosyl derivatives of ganglioside GD1b. AB - Mouse monoclonal antibody AA4 inhibits the binding of IgE to high affinity IgE receptors on the rat basophilic leukemia cell line RBL-2H3. As shown by immunostaining of thin layer chromatograms, antibody AA4 binds avidly to two disialogangliosides (antigen I and antigen II) that occur in this cell line. The two antigens were purified by anion exchange chromatography followed by short-bed continuous thin-layer chromatography. About 230 micrograms of antigen I and 60 micrograms of antigen II were obtained from 20 g (wet weight) of leukemia cells. The structures of both purified antigens were determined to be alpha-galactosyl derivatives of the ganglioside GD1b by fast atom bombardment-mass spectrometry, by chemical ionization-mass spectrometry of permethylated samples, by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry of partially methylated alditol acetates, and by treatment with exoglycosidases and mild acid hydrolysis. The structure of antigen I is: (formula; see text) Antigen II has an additional alpha-galactosyl residue as follows: (formula; see text) The ceramide of antigen I contains approximately equal amounts of C24:0, C22:0, C20:0, C18:0, and C16:0 N-acyl fatty acids. The ceramide base is predominantly sphingosine along with a small amount of dihydrosphingosine. In contrast, the ceramide of antigen II contains mainly C24:0 N-acyl fatty acid with much lower amounts of C22:0, C20:0, and C18:0 fatty acids. Moreover, the ceramide base is approximately 55% sphingosine and 45% dihydrosphingosine. No unsaturated N-acyl fatty acids were detected in either antigen. PMID- 2526815 TI - Production and characterization of monoclonal antibodies to the N-terminal domain of lambda repressor. AB - Monoclonal antibodies reactive with distinct regions of the N-terminal domain of the lambda repressor protein have been isolated. By comparing the affinities of these antibodies for mutant repressors with increased and decreased thermal stabilities, each of the antibodies can be shown to bind to epitopes accessible in the native conformation of the N-terminal domain. Experiments probing antibody binding to protein fragments, mutant variants, and peptides have also been used to define likely regions of contact between the antibodies and the N-terminal domain. PMID- 2526816 TI - Mutational analysis of the fine specificity of binding of monoclonal antibody 51F to lambda repressor. AB - Monoclonal antibody 51F recognizes determinants in the helix 4 region of the native form of the N-terminal domain of lambda repressor. A cassette mutagenesis method was used to introduce changes within this region, and antibody-reactive candidates were isolated and sequenced. The resulting data allow the identification of repressor side chains that are critical determinants of antibody binding. Four of these side chains are on the surface of the N-terminal domain and probably contact the antibody directly. These contact positions were then mutagenized individually, and the antibody binding phenotypes of a large number of singly mutant repressors were determined. Taken together, the mutational data allow a functional map of the recognition surface to be constructed and the physical nature of some of the specific interactions that stabilize the antibody-antigen complex to be surmised. PMID- 2526817 TI - Detection of fms-oncogene-specific tyrosine kinase activity in human leukemia cells. AB - The c-fms protooncogene encodes the receptor for the colony-stimulating factor 1 of macrophages. Its transforming counterpart, the v-fms oncogene has previously been recognized as the transforming gene of the McDonough strain of feline sarcoma virus. We have isolated rabbit antisera against a 115-kDa recombinant polypeptide containing the 926 carboxy-terminal amino acids of the v-fms protein. All antibodies recognized the cytoplasmic domain of the v-fms protein, which is 95% homologous to the corresponding domain of human c-fms proteins. These sera were applied in a survey of various human cancer cell lines, such as peripheral blood mononuclear (HL60) and choriocarcinoma (BeWo) cells, as well as leukemic cells from 58 patients with acute myelocytic, chronic myelocytic or acute lymphocytic leukemias (AML, CML, ALL). Significantly enhanced levels of fms specific tyrosine kinase activity were detected in 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13 acetate-induced HL60 and in BeWo cells, and in 7 out of 24 samples from AML patients, whereas no activity could be detected in 9 ALL or in 25 CML cell preparations. The AML cells were classified according to the FAB criteria. The highest incidence of increased fms activity was found in cells assigned to the M4 class (four out of five cases). While no activity was found in material belonging to FAB classes M2 or M3, one of the two cases of the M5 class was kinase positive. Interestingly, two out of seven cases of the M1 class cells exhibited enhanced levels of fms kinase. These data suggest that the determination of the fms kinase may be useful to subdivide the M1 class of the FAB classification into monocytic and non-monocytic precursor leukemia cells. PMID- 2526818 TI - The influence of gonadal function and the effect of gonadal suppression treatment on final height in growth hormone (GH)-treated GH-deficient children. AB - One hundred and sixty-one children with idiopathic GH deficiency who received GH treatment were followed until they reached their final height. Final height was found to be influenced by gonadal function. In 108 patients who had spontaneous puberty (91 boys and 17 girls; group A), the mean final height was 151.8 +/- 6.6 (+/- SD) cm in boys and 141.7 +/- 7.4 cm in girls. In 29 patients with combined GH and gonadotropin deficiency (23 boys and 6 girls; group C), whose pubertal development was induced artificially at age 19.5 +/- 2.1 yr in the boys and 18.6 +/- 1.8 yr in the girls, the mean final height was 163.7 +/- 3.9 cm in boys and 151.0 +/- 5.1 cm in girls. The differences in final height between groups A and C were significant in both boys and girls. The shorter final height in group A was caused by the shorter pubertal duration and smaller pubertal height gain than those in normal children. In 24 patients (17 boys and 7 girls; group B) who developed early signs of puberty, gonadal suppression therapy with cyproterone acetate and/or medroxyprogesterone acetate was given. The mean SD score of the final height in these 24 patients was -2.1 +/- 0.6, significantly higher than that in group A. This beneficial effect of gonadal suppression treatment on final height was caused by increases in the duration of puberty and the pubertal height gain. PMID- 2526819 TI - Prolactin-lowering effect of luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone agonist administration in prolactinoma patients. AB - We studied the effect of LHRH agonist administration on serum PRL levels in five women with microprolactinomas and two women and a man with intrasellar macroprolactinomas. Each patient received either D-Trp6-LHRH or buserelin for 90 days. Serum PRL levels decreased significantly in the patients with microprolactinomas by 65%, from 156 +/- 93 (+/- SD) to 54 +/- 49 micrograms/L on day 90 (P = 0.011), but it did not decrease in the macroprolactinoma patients. Mean serum LH and FSH decreased by 43% and 62.5%, respectively, in all eight patients. There was no statistically significant correlation between the serum PRL and LH or FSH levels in the microprolactinoma patients. We conclude that LHRH agonists can counteract the hyperprolactinemia produced by microprolactinomas and that the effect probably is not exerted by an action on the gonadotrophs. PMID- 2526820 TI - Serotype-related differences in production and type of heat-labile hemolysin and heat-labile cytotoxin of Actinobacillus (Haemophilus) pleuropneumoniae. AB - Reference strains of serotypes 1 to 12 of Actinobacillus (Haemophilus) pleuropneumoniae were cultured in Eagle minimal essential medium with 10% Serum Plus. Culture supernatants were examined for cytotoxicity to alveolar macrophages and for the ability to hemolyze sheep erythrocytes. All strains except the reference strain of serotype 6 produced cytotoxin, whereas only serotypes 1, 5, 9, 10, and 11 produced hemolysin. Both cytotoxin and hemolysin appeared to be heat labile. Antisera were raised against cytotoxin- and hemolysin-containing culture supernatants of serotypes 1 to 11. Cross-neutralization studies revealed that the hemolysins were serologically homogeneous. In contrast, four serologically different cytotoxins were distinguished. One cytotoxin was produced by serotypes 1, 5, 9, and 11, and a second was produced by serotypes 2, 3, 4, and 8. A third cytotoxin was produced by serotypes 7 and 12; this cytotoxin was related to the cytotoxins of serotypes 1, 2, 4, 5, 9, and 11. A fourth cytotoxin, produced by serotype 10, was related to the cytotoxin of serotypes 1, 5, 9, and 11. Seventy field strains belonging to serotypes 2, 3, 7, 8, 9, and 11 were also tested for production of cytotoxin and hemolysin. All strains belonging to serotypes 9 and 11 produced hemolysin and cytotoxin, whereas all strains of serotypes 2, 3, 7, and 8 produced only cytotoxin. Hemolysins and cytotoxins of both the field strains and the corresponding serotype reference strains were comparably neutralized. These findings strongly suggest that the observed differences in production and type of hemolysin and cytotoxin were related to serotype and not to strain. PMID- 2526821 TI - Comparison of the agar dilution, tube dilution, and broth microdilution susceptibility tests for determination of teicoplanin MICs. AB - The purpose of this study was to evaluate the National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards agar dilution, tube dilution, and broth microdilution susceptibility tests for the measurement of teicoplanin MICs. The three standardized tests gave equivalent (within a twofold dilution) results with 98.8 to 99.0% of the 508 gram-positive clinical isolates tested, indicating that either method may be used for teicoplanin MIC determination. PMID- 2526822 TI - Isolation and characterization of complement receptors CR1 from human peripheral nerves. AB - Extracts from myelinated and unmyelinated nerves, prepared using Nonidet P-40, contained receptors for C3b/C4b (CR1). Extracts from myelinated nerves inhibited EAC3b rosette formation with peripheral blood leucocytes and agglutinated EAC3b, whereas extract from unmyelinated nerves did not. Rosette formation with EAC3bi or EAC3d was not affected. CR1 in extracts from myelinated nerves also expressed decay-accelerating activity of the alternative pathway C3 convertase and cofactor activity in factor I-mediated cleavage of C3b, whereas CR1 in extract from unmyelinated nerves did not. Monoclonal anti-CR1 antibodies, but not monoclonal anti-CR2 (C3d receptors) or anti-CR3 (C3bi receptors) antibodies inhibited the functional activities. Accordingly, CR1 are the only C3 receptor present in the extracts and only CR1 in myelinated nerve extracts are functionally active. CR1 in both myelinated and unmyelinated nerve extracts had a molecular weight of approximately 190 kDa. The electrophoretic mobility did not change after reduction and the 190 kDa band was stained by concanavalin A, indicating that the CR1 are single-chained glycoproteins. Binding to lentil lectin-Sepharose 4B further sustained the glycoprotein nature of the CR1. Periodic acid abolished functional activities of CR1, whereas trypsin and heat did not, indicating the functional significance of the carbohydrate moiety. That CR1 are functionally active in myelinated nerves, but not in unmyelinated nerves, may therefore be due to differences in the carbohydrate moiety. The cofactor and decay-accelerating activities of CR1 may be of significance in the pathogenesis of demyelinating polyneuropathies by limiting complement activation. PMID- 2526823 TI - Essential fatty acids in clinical dermatology. AB - A deficiency of essential fatty acid intake can produce severe cutaneous abnormalities but is exceedingly rare in clinical practice. Recent research has shown that abnormalities in essential fatty acid metabolism may play a role in atopic eczema, acne, and psoriasis. Therapeutic innovations have already resulted from this knowledge, and more are likely to emerge. PMID- 2526824 TI - Side-effect profile of acitretin therapy in psoriasis. AB - Acitretin, the principal and free acid metabolite of etretinate, was used to treat patients with stable, plaque-type psoriasis. For the first 8 weeks, 38 patients received placebo or acitretin, 10, 25, 50, or 75 mg daily, in a double blind manner. After the double-blind phase, the patients were allowed to continue for a total of 6 months of acitretin therapy at an average dosage of 50 mg/day. When the patients flared after stopping therapy, an additional 6-month course of acitretin therapy was offered. Acitretin, which was as effective as etretinate, had to be given at a dosage of 50 mg/day or more to obtain a significant benefit. Side effects frequently occurred in patients receiving acitretin, 25 mg/day or more, but were generally mild and did not warrant discontinuation of therapy. They were similar to those of etretinate therapy; cheilitis, peeling of palms and soles, and alopecia occurred most frequently. The most common abnormal laboratory test results were elevations in serum triglycerides and, to a lesser extent, serum cholesterol and liver transaminase levels. Acitretin, in view of its much shorter half-life and similar efficacy and side-effect profile compared with etretinate, may be a preferable therapy for psoriasis, especially in women of childbearing age. PMID- 2526825 TI - Eczema as a complication of heparin therapy. PMID- 2526826 TI - Furosemide-induced eruption simulating Sweet's syndrome. AB - This case report describes an 88-year-old man who developed an eruption that clinically and histologically simulated Sweet's syndrome 6 weeks after furosemide therapy was started. The rapid resolution of lesions on discontinuation of the medication, as well as several features atypical for Sweet's syndrome in this case, favored the diagnosis of drug eruption. A review of adverse cutaneous reactions induced by furosemide is also presented. PMID- 2526827 TI - Allergic contact dermatitis resulting from sensitivity to citrus peel, geraniol, and citral. AB - A bartender with hand dermatitis had allergic contact sensitivity to the skin of lemon, lime, and orange but not to their juices. Although most reported cases of citrus peel allergy are due to d-limonene, for our patient, reactions to patch tests for geraniol and citral, two minor components of citrus peel oil, were positive, whereas those for d-limonene were negative. Contact allergy to citrus peel oil should be considered in patients with hand dermatitis who are occupationally exposed to citrus fruits. PMID- 2526828 TI - Contact allergic dermatitis to dicyclohexylcarbodiimide used in protein synthesis. AB - Dicyclohexylcarbodiimide is a commonly used coupling agent found in protein synthesis. It is a potent allergic sensitizer found especially in the emerging industries involved in recombinant DNA synthesis. Chemists who work in research and development of this industry are especially at risk of development of contact dermatitis, unless they are careful and avoid skin contact. This report describes two chemists with allergic contact dermatitis from repeated contact with this compound in their work as research and development chemists. An appropriate concentration for patch testing is suggested. PMID- 2526829 TI - A comparison of 1980 and 1988 predoctoral pediatric dentistry curricula. PMID- 2526830 TI - Long-term results of thrombolytic therapy with and without percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. AB - The effects of combined intravenous and intracoronary streptokinase without (Group I, n = 103) or with (Group II, n = 103) immediate coronary angioplasty were evaluated during a long-term (3 year) follow-up of 206 patients with acute transmural myocardial infarction. There were no baseline differences between the groups with regard to gender, age, infarct location, serum creatine kinase levels, time between onset of symptoms and treatment and coronary artery patency rate. Angioplasty was performed with a success rate of 69% and a reocclusion rate of 2%. Elective angioplasty was performed in 22 (21%) of 103 patients in Group I and 9 (9%) of 103 patients in Group II, with a success rate of 86% and 100%, respectively, reflecting the higher incidence of angina pectoris and antianginal therapy in Group I. Coronary bypass surgery was performed in 21 (20%) of 103 patients in Group I and 20 (19%) of 103 patients in Group II; there was one operative death in each group. During follow-up, coronary reocclusion or reinfarction, or both, occurred in 25 (29%) of 87 patients in Group I and in 16 (18%) of 87 patients in Group II with reperfused vessels (p = NS). Heart failure occurred in 40% of the patients in both groups who had increased end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes. The survival rate after 3 years was 78% in Group I and 80% in Group II (p = NS). Thus, long-term follow-up of patients with acute transmural infarction treated with and without immediate angioplasty does not demonstrate any difference with regard to clinical outcome and mortality. PMID- 2526832 TI - Caveats of balloon dilation of conduits and conduit valves. AB - The results and complications of percutaneous balloon dilation involving 10 patients with a stenotic right ventricle to pulmonary artery prosthetic conduit and 1 patient with an obstructed right atrium to left pulmonary artery Dacron graft (modified Fontan) are reported. For the 10 patients (14.5 +/- 5 years) with a right ventricle to pulmonary artery conduit, the mean (+/- SD) predilation conduit valve gradient was 57 +/- 22 mm Hg, right ventricular pressure 104 +/- 21 mm Hg and right ventricle to pulmonary artery gradient 75 +/- 23 mm Hg; 2 of the patients had additional pulmonary artery stenosis requiring dilation. In one patient, the balloon could not be advanced across the conduit valve. In 9 of 10 patients in whom dilation was successfully performed, the conduit valve gradient decreased by 59 +/- 13%, right ventricle to pulmonary artery gradient by 43 +/- 22% and right ventricular pressure by 31 +/- 11%. After dilation, right ventricular pressure was less than 65% of systemic pressure in seven patients, although no pressure was less than 40%. In 8 of the 11 patients, surgery was avoided or postponed. Complications included loss of a balloon fragment after rupture during the unsuccessful dilation of the right atrium to left pulmonary artery graft and circumferential balloon rupture requiring catheter retrieval of the distal portion of the balloon from the femoral vein after successful dilation of the right ventricle to pulmonary artery conduit. Conduit valve dilation by balloon can reduce but rarely eliminate conduit obstruction, and balloon rupture may occur and can result in fragment loss or embolization. PMID- 2526831 TI - Right coronary artery occlusion: its role in the mechanism of precordial ST segment depression. AB - To investigate the mechanism of precordial ST segment depression during right coronary artery occlusion, precordial ST segment shifts and myocardial lactate metabolism were evaluated during coronary angioplasty in 10 patients with (group A) and 7 patients without (group B) precordial ST segment depression during balloon occlusion of the right coronary artery, and in 17 patients with precordial ST segment depression during balloon occlusion of the left anterior descending artery (group C). A 12 lead electrocardiogram was continuously recorded in each patient. Blood lactate in the aorta and great cardiac vein was measured during the procedure, and the lactate extraction ratio in the anterior wall was determined both before and during balloon occlusion. Eight of the 10 patients in group A and 1 of the 7 patients in group B had a dominant large right coronary artery. There were no significant differences in summed ST segment elevation in leads II, III and a VF between group A (0.56 +/- 0.26 mV) and group B (0.46 +/- 0.19 mV) during balloon occlusion of the right coronary artery, and no significant differences in summed ST segment depression in leads V1 to V6 during balloon occlusion between group A (0.44 +/- 0.26 mV) and group C (0.38 +/- 0.14 mV). Lactate extraction ratio before balloon occlusion was similar among the three groups. Patients in group A had a higher lactate extraction ratio during (38 +/- 11%) compared with before (30 +/- 11%) (p less than 0.05) balloon occlusion despite precordial ST segment depression.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526833 TI - Treatment of recoarctation: balloon dilation angioplasty. AB - Balloon dilation of recoarctation of the aorta was performed 47 times in 44 patients 49 +/- 54 months after surgical repair. The initial operation was performed in the neonatal period in 29 patients (66%). The age at balloon dilation was 4.9 +/- 5.3 years (range 2 months to 20 years) and weight was 18 +/- 15 kg (range 2 to 72). Systolic pressure difference across the recoarctation site decreased from 37 +/- 16 to 14 +/- 11 mm Hg and coarctation/aortic diameter ratio increased from 0.45 +/- 0.14 to 0.85 +/- 0.16 immediately after balloon dilation regardless of the nature of the previous operation (subclavian flap [n = 12], resection with end to end anastomosis [n = 21], patch angioplasty [n = 4] or multiple operations [n = 5]). In the ascending aorta, systolic pressure decreased from 120 +/- 25 to 113 +/- 20 mm Hg. In the descending aorta, systolic pressure increased from 85 +/- 15 to 100 +/- 19 mm Hg and pulse pressure increased from 22 +/- 7 to 36 +/- 8 mm Hg. At repeat cardiac catheterization in 21 patients (48%) 12 +/- 8 months after balloon dilation, there was further reduction in systolic pressure difference from 17 +/- 11 to 12 +/- 9 mm Hg with no further change in coarctation/aortic diameter ratio. Aneurysm formation was evident in one patient (2%) immediately after balloon dilation; the aneurysm was unchanged at repeat study 15 months later. A "new" aneurysm was apparent in 2 (10%) of the other 20 patients restudied to date. The occurrence of aneurysm in these three patients was unrelated to balloon size. There were no procedure-related deaths. Three patients (7%) had femoral artery occlusion. Balloon dilation affords good relief of obstruction without adverse sequelae from aortic wall disruption at medium term follow-up. PMID- 2526834 TI - Marfan's syndrome: natural history and long-term follow-up of cardiovascular involvement. AB - A retrospective analysis was undertaken to define the natural history and long term follow-up of a group of patients with Marfan's syndrome. Eighty-four patients were diagnosed between January 1959 and June 1987 as having Marfan's syndrome; 68% were male; their ages ranged from 2 to 67 years (mean 26.6). Sixteen patients constituted the early surgical group (those who underwent surgery before 1979; mean age 36.1 years). Nineteen patients constituted the late surgical group (surgery in 1979 or later; mean age 33.3 years). The nonsurgical group comprised 49 patients (mean age 19.3 years). Fifty-seven percent of the patients had a diastolic murmur and 38% had cardiomegaly at presentation. Fifty seven percent underwent cardiac catheterization, which revealed aortic root dilation (85%), aortic regurgitation (73%), aortic dissection (33%) and mitral regurgitation (36%). Thirteen of the 19 patients in the late surgical group received a composite graft repair of the ascending aorta as compared with only 2 of the 16 in the early surgical group. Follow-up information was obtained on 81 (96%) of 84 patients; the follow-up time was 2 to 332 months (mean 99). Thirty one of the 81 patients died at age 3 to 63 years (mean age 35 years); 87% of the known causes of death were related to the cardiovascular system. Sixty-one percent of deaths were the result of aortic dissection or rupture or sudden cardiac death. Of the 50 survivors, 98%, including all patients in the late surgical group, were in functional class I or II. Overall survival at 5, 10 and 15 years after operation was 78.4%, 57.1% and 49.5%, respectively.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526835 TI - Detection of submaximal effort by use of the rapid exchange grip. AB - To assist in distinguishing patients with truly decreased hand grip strength from those deliberately not gripping the dynamometer at maximal capacity, a rapid exchange grip strength test was devised and tested under four conditions. Part I, 100 normal subjects undergoing static grip testing and the rapid exchange grip test. Part II, 45 patients chosen at random from physical therapy with various hand injuries tested using only the static grip test. Part III, a blind control study on 15 normal subjects instructed to fake an injury to either the right or left hand. This group was given both the static and rapid exchange grip test. Part IV, a retrospective evaluation of 45 patients seen in a private hand practice who had both the static and rapid exchange grip test. After the dynamometer had been set to the position at which the patient had previously achieved maximal grip strength, the patient was instructed to rapidly alternate hands while gripping the dynamometer. Uninjured subjects had consistently lower rapid exchange grip test scores than previous scores at the same setting (negative rapid exchange grip). Average rapid exchange grip test scores were higher than previous scores (positive rapid exchange grip) when subjects were instructed to fake an injury with one hand. We conclude that if maximal performance has not been achieved on the static test, the rapid exchange grip shows a significant increase in grip strength on the affected side. More patients claiming worker's compensation had positive rapid exchange grips and the average score was higher than that of patients not claiming worker's compensation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526836 TI - Cytochemical properties of osteoblast cell membrane domains. AB - The interactions of osteoblasts with one another and with the extracellular milieu are of vital importance for cell function. These interactions are mediated by cell membrane-associated components. In the present work, we studied the distribution of several mediators known to be associated with the cell surface, using ultrastructural cytochemistry, to characterize the three cell membrane domains (osteoid, lateral, and vascular) of osteoblasts. Osteoblasts in neonatal rat calvariae were studied for cell surface distribution of alkaline phosphatase (APase), calcium-activated adenosine triphosphatase (Ca2+-ATPase), calcium, soybean agglutinin (SBA)-reactive sites, and peanut agglutinin (PNA)-reactive sites. APase was absent in the osteoid domain but was evenly distributed in the other domains. Ca2+-ATPase was found to be concentrated mainly in the lateral domains. In contrast, calcium was present in all cell membrane domains. Using lectins conjugated to horseradish peroxidase, we demonstrated that SBA binding sites were evenly distributed along the osteoblast cell membrane, whereas PNA binding sites were absent or minimally present in the osteoid and lateral domains but were evenly distributed in the vascular domain. These results suggest that the various functions of osteoblasts may be facilitated by specialized cell membrane domains which are cytochemically distinct. Previous reports have failed to demonstrate the cytochemical differences between the three domains of the osteoblast cell membrane. PMID- 2526837 TI - Homogeneous immunoassay for alpha 2 plasmin inhibitor (alpha 2PI) and alpha 2PI plasmin complex. Application of a sandwich liposome immune lysis assay (LILA) technique. AB - The measurement of the alpha 2 plasmin inhibitor (alpha 2PI) and alpha 2PI plasmin complex is important for a complete understanding of fibrinolytic conditions. Using monoclonal antibodies against alpha 2PI, a sandwich liposome immune lysis assay (LILA) has been used for the quantitation of alpha 2PI and the alpha 2PI-plasmin complex. In the assay system for the measurement of alpha 2PI, anti-alpha 2PI monoclonal antibodies were covalently coupled to liposomes and specific lysis of liposomes was observed when the liposomes were incubated with the alpha 2PI antigen, TNP haptenized second monoclonal antibody against alpha 2PI and complement activating rabbit anti-TNP antibody. The same liposomes and rabbit anti-plasminogen antibody could be used for the homogeneous determination of the alpha 2PI-plasmin complex. The former assay suggests that monoclonal antibodies lacking complement-activating ability can be used in the sandwich LILA technique. The second application suggests that the LILA technique is capable of measuring heterocomplexes. These assays, which involve the same analytical system, are simple, fast and highly sensitive. They are potentially useful in determining the fibrinolytic status of patients. PMID- 2526838 TI - Assessment of human allospecific IL-2-secreting helper T lymphocytes in limiting dilution cultures using restimulation and split well analysis. AB - A limiting dilution (LD) culture was established which allows the detection of allospecific interleukin-2 (IL-2)-secreting helper T lymphocyte precursors (HTL p) among human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMNC). HTL-p stimulated with allogeneic Epstein-Barr virus-transformed B lymphoblastoid cell lines (EBV-LCL) in the presence of exogenous recombinant IL-2 (r-IL-2) clonally developed into IL 2 secreting effector cells when restimulated against the original stimulating alloantigen. Split well cultures were performed prior to restimulation to assess the antigen specificity of the response. Frequencies of alloreactive IL-2 secreting HTL-p ranged from 1/100 to 1/800. Allospecificity of effector T cells was determined by a strong decline of frequencies obtained after restimulation against third-party antigens. In (clonal) segregation analyses the vast majority of IL-2-secreting progenies (80%) were specific for the original stimulating alloantigen. Allele specificity was disclosed by using class II MHC related third party restimulator cells. By comparison with LD short-term cultures it became evident that exogenous r-IL-2 in the initial culture period was required to reveal optimal precursor frequencies of IL-2-producing T cells. Furthermore, successful antigenic restimulation was strictly confined to these culture conditions. PMID- 2526839 TI - Identification of a functional allele of a human interferon-alpha gene previously characterized as a pseudogene. AB - Three recombinant phage lambda L47 clones containing 4 alpha interferon (IFN) genes have been isolated from a newly constructed human genomic library. Each gene is an allele of a previously described IFN gene, three being only minor variants. The fourth gene SMTIII.1A is a functional allele of the psi LeIF-L gene which previously has been described only as a pseudogene. Therefore, it appears likely that other variant alleles may remain to be described and that the IFN system may be able to tolerate some degeneracy as a consequence of the large number of members of the family. PMID- 2526840 TI - Hereditary and dietary effects on apolipoprotein[a] isoforms and Lp[a] in baboons. AB - Baboons possess Lp[a] that is similar to human Lp[a], including the presence of the unique protein, apo[a]. Baboon apo[a] occurred in at least nine isoforms distinguishable by size. Isoforms were resolved by 3-12% polyacrylamide gradient gel electrophoretic separation of serum proteins, and were detected with baboon apo[a]-specific antibodies. Thirty one different apo[a] isoform phenotypes were detected in a population of 165 unrelated baboons. Identical isoform phenotypes were observed in different samples from individual baboons, and isoform phenotypes were unaffected by changes in diet. In one experiment, 16 baboons were fed a series of five diets differing in amounts of cholesterol and saturated or unsaturated fats. There was no significant effect of diet on serum Lp[a] levels. In another group of baboons (n = 70) controlled for age and dietary history, enrichment of the diet with cholesterol and saturated fat caused a small, but significant (P less than 0.005), increase (means = 0.6 mg/dl) in serum Lp[a] concentration. Analysis of two large sire families suggested that apo[a] isoform patterns and serum Lp[a] concentrations were inherited. Putative parental alleles responsible for specific isoform bands appeared to segregate randomly. Heritability (h2) of serum Lp[a] concentration was estimated to be 0.95 +/- 0.04. We conclude that apo[a] isoform phenotypes and serum Lp[a] concentrations are inherited, and that Lp[a] concentrations are only slightly influenced by diet. PMID- 2526842 TI - [Reflections of an angiologist apropos of the present-day indications for intraluminal angioplasty]. PMID- 2526841 TI - [Radicular claudication with a narrowed lumbar canal]. AB - Painful symptomatology in the lower limbs coming on with walking must not systematically be attributed to arteritis of the lower limbs. Among the characteristics which may suggest that this "claudication" is due to a narrowed lumbar canal, is the presence of paresthesia and above all the clear improvement when the patient is seated or adopts a lumbar kyphotic position. It is therefore extremely important to keep in mind the radicular topography of pain and neurological deficit. The congenitally narrow lumbar canals rarely produce problems unless there is further narrowing of the lumbar or radicular canal by a disco-osteophytic projection anteriorly, a posterior articular osteophytic projection posteriorly, thickening of the ligamentum flavum, an abnormal widening of the dural sheath, or excess peridural fat. Among the complementary investigations, CAT scan is useful to analyse the structures involved, but this examination is carried out in decubitus, i.e., without lordosis, while narrowing principally appears on lumbar extension, i.e., in the upright position. Saccoradiculography therefore remains the investigation of choice, performed in the seated and upright position. It can objectively assess the degree of narrowing and analyse the proportion due to the anterior discal or posterior articular component. This investigation should only be requested after failure of medical treatment based above all on analgesics, physiotherapy in lumbar kyphosis, and an abdomino-lumbar corset support. In the event of failure of medical treatment and if the patient is very handicapped, one most often resorts to decompressive surgery, however when narrowing is principally due to a discal projection, one may attempt discolysis with chymopapain. PMID- 2526843 TI - The regulation by thyroid hormones and androgen of epidermal growth factor synthesis in the submandibular gland and its plasma concentrations in mice. AB - The effects of androgen and thyroid hormones on epidermal growth factor (EGF) synthesis in the submandibular gland and on plasma EGF concentrations in mice were examined. Testosterone propionate was administered alone or in combination with L-thyroxine (T4) to female mice for 2 weeks. The submandibular EGF concentrations were increased by the administration of testosterone propionate in a dose-dependent fashion; the maximal increase, 20-fold, being produced by a dose of 2 mg every other day. The EGF levels were increased sevenfold by T4, which also enhanced the stimulatory effect of suboptimal doses of testosterone propionate. Cyproterone acetate, an anti-androgen, inhibited the testosterone propionate-induced increase, but not the T4-induced increase. Plasma EGF concentrations were raised by testosterone propionate but not by T4. Both hormones stimulated the accumulation of 4.7 kb preproEGF mRNA in the submandibular gland, which occurred almost in a parallel manner with the increase in submandibular EGF concentrations. These results suggest that EGF synthesis in the submandibular gland is regulated by alterations in the level of its mRNA by thyroid hormones and androgen, and that the rise in plasma EGF concentrations is under the influence of androgen but not of thyroid hormones. PMID- 2526844 TI - The binding of steroids to myometrium and leiomyomata (fibroids) in women treated with the gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist Zoladex (ICI 118630). AB - Since uterine leiomyomata (fibroids) are not found in conditions where oestradiol is either absent or present only in low concentrations, oestradiol is considered to be an important factor in the control of fibroid growth. To investigate whether this is due to a direct effect on the tissue, oestradiol and progestogen receptors were measured in tissue removed at hysterectomy from 12 normally cycling women and 13 women who had received the gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist Zoladex (ICI 118630) as a subcutaneous depot given at monthly intervals for 3 months preoperatively and a third group of three women who had received the antioestrogen tamoxifen (20 mg daily) for 3 months before surgery. Both unoccupied oestradiol receptors (measured by separating bound from free hormone with dextran-coated charcoal; DCC) and 'total' receptor populations (as measured by an enzyme immunoassay) were measured in each fibroid and adjoining myometrium. There was significantly more binding of both oestradiol and progestogen to fibroid than to myometrium in both the control (P less than 0.01) and agonist-treated groups (P less than 0.05). Oestradiol binding to fibroids in women treated with Zoladex exceeded that in the normally cycling women (P less than 0.05) which in turn exceeded that in the tamoxifen-treated group (P less than 0.05). However, the binding of progestogen, measured by DCC showed the reverse trend. These results may be explained by the low circulating oestradiol concentration in the GnRH agonist-treated women leading to low receptor occupancy. PMID- 2526845 TI - The in-vitro transformation of [3H]dehydroepiandrosterone into its principal metabolites in the adrenal cortex of adult castrated male rats and following steroid treatment. AB - The adrenal gland of castrated adult male rats metabolized [3H]dehydroepiandrosterone in vitro to delta 4-androsten-3,17-dione (4AD), testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and 5 alpha-androstane-3,17-dione (5 alpha AD). Despite the low testosterone values, DHT and 5 alpha AD were higher 30 and especially 60 days after castration, with raised 4AD:testosterone and decreased testosterone:DHT ratios. The 5 alpha-reductase activity thus appears to increase with time after castration. Fourteen days after castration, 4AD was the only metabolite that was raised compared with intact animals, and testosterone was comparable in sham-operated and castrated rats. The administration of testosterone propionate to castrated rats restored testosterone values to those of intact rat adrenals, whereas 4AD values were greater. The administration of dihydrotestosterone propionate also yielded higher levels of 4AD, in the presence of a lower testosterone value. After administration of oestradiol benzoate, 4AD values were lower especially compared with the other hormone-treated groups, and there was an unexpectedly high testosterone value. These data indicate that the adrenal gland contributes to the production of androgens, as previously noted by Ando, Canonaco, Beraldi et al. (1988) who showed increased plasma 4AD and testosterone levels in adult male rats 30 days after castration. Furthermore, adrenal androgen production in castrated animals is differentially regulated by sex steroids. PMID- 2526846 TI - Alternative membrane forms of Fc gamma RIII(CD16) on human natural killer cells and neutrophils. Cell type-specific expression of two genes that differ in single nucleotide substitutions. AB - A low affinity receptor for IgG immune complexes, Fc gamma RIII(CD16), is expressed on human NK cells as an integral membrane glycoprotein anchored through a transmembrane peptide; on polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) the receptor is anchored through a phosphatidylinositol (PI) linkage. The protein on NK cells has a molecular mass 6-10 kD larger than that on PMN, and, unlike the latter, is resistant to PI-specific phospholipase C (PI-PLC). Fc gamma RIII(CD16) transcripts isolated from PMN and NK cells of single donors revealed multiple single nucleotide differences, one of which converts an in frame UGA termination codon to a CGA codon. The resulting open reading frame encodes a longer cytoplasmic domain for Fc gamma RIII(CD16) in NK cells, contributing to its transmembrane anchor. Two nearly identical, linked genes that encode these transcripts have been cloned for Fc gamma RIII(CD16), one of which (III-1) is allelic for NA-1 and NA-2. The allelic sites have been mapped to two single nucleotides in the extracellular domain. These genes are transcribed in a cell type-specific fashion to generate the alternatively anchored forms of this receptor. PMID- 2526847 TI - Alveolar macrophage elimination in vivo is associated with an increase in pulmonary immune response in mice. AB - A single intracheal dose of liposome-encapsuled dichloro-methylene-diphosphonate resulted in the elimination of alveolar macrophages (AM) from the lung, creating a model to study the in vivo role of AM in the pulmonary immune response. Using intratracheally administered trinitrophenyl-keyhole limpet hemocyanin (TNP-KLH), the kinetics of the response, the location and number of TNP-specific antibody forming cells, and the different Ig classes of the antibodies produced were studied in AM-depleted animals. The results show that AM elimination has a dramatic effect on the pulmonary immune responses against TNP-KLH. An increase in APC in lung-associated lymph nodes and a prolongation of the response is found, as well as an introduction of APC in lung tissue. In both experimental groups, the majority of the TNP-specific antibodies produced was IgG, followed by IgA and IgE, while very few IgM antibodies could be detected. We conclude from these results that AM are likely to play a role in controlling the pulmonary immune response in a suppressive way, thereby limiting the possible damage caused by severe immune responses in lung tissue. PMID- 2526849 TI - An antigen-independent contact mechanism as an early step in T cell-proliferative responses to dendritic cells. AB - Dendritic cells bearing antigen efficiently aggregate and stimulate antigen specific T cells. We describe an experimental model in which an initial, apparently antigen-independent binding step is followed by ligation of the TCR. The model is the polyclonal response to mAb to the CD3 portion of the TCR complex. Epidermal and thymic dendritic cells utilize low levels of Fc receptors to present the anti-CD3 mAb and induce mitogenesis. Within 3 h of coculture, most of the dendritic cells have formed clusters with the resting T lymphocytes, and these clusters are the site for subsequent DNA synthesis and cell growth. However, the binding of dendritic cells to T cells proceeds as efficiently in the absence of anti-CD3 as in its presence, and anti-FcR mAb does not block. CD3 and Fc receptors are essential for the subsequent mitogenesis response in dendritic-T cell clusters. Because an exogenous ligand for the TCR does not seem to be required for the extensive polyclonal clustering of resting lymphocytes to dendritic cells, we suggest that an antigen-independent mechanism mediates the initial interaction. This clustering seems essential for T cell growth since we do not detect, in two-chamber experiments, soluble lymphocyte-activating factors that originate from dendritic-T cell aggregates and that activate anti-CD3-coated T cells. PMID- 2526848 TI - Antibody-dependent antitumor cytotoxicity by human monocytes cultured with recombinant macrophage colony-stimulating factor. Induction of efficient antibody mediated antitumor cytotoxicity not detected by isotope release assays. AB - Macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) is known to stimulate proliferation of monocyte/macrophage progenitors and enhance in vitro antitumor cytotoxicity by murine macrophages. In this paper we have shown that recombinant human M-CSF causes human peripheral blood monocytes to differentiate in culture into metabolically active macrophage-like cells. These cells mediate very efficient antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) against human melanoma and neuroblastoma cell lines in the presence of two murine IgG3 mAbs (3F8 and R24). They also mediate antibody-independent cytotoxicity (or cytostasis) to a lesser extent. Human serum had an inconsistent effect on ADCC, but often induced similar high levels of ADCC. Cytotoxicity was measured using a novel ELISA to detect surviving tumor cells after ADCC. Two conventional isotope-release assays (51Cr and [3H]TdR) underestimated or entirely failed to detect ADCC by M-CSF-activated monocytes. Optimal activation occurred with 100-300 U/ml of M-CSF, and required 9 11 d for completion. Most of the M-CSF cultured monocytes expressed the low affinity Fc receptor (CD16). ADCC by cells of the monocyte/macrophage lineage using murine IgG3 mAbs may have significance for the immunotherapy of human malignancies. PMID- 2526850 TI - Clonal deletion of self-reactive T cells in irradiation bone marrow chimeras and neonatally tolerant mice. Evidence for intercellular transfer of Mlsa. AB - Tolerance to Mlsa has been shown to be associated with clonal deletion of cells carrying TCR beta chain variable regions V beta 6 or V beta 8.1 in mice possessing I-E antigens. To evaluate the rules of tolerance induction to Mlsa we prepared irradiation bone marrow chimeras expressing Mlsa or Mlsb and I-E by different cell types. Deletion of V beta 6+, Mlsa-reactive T cells required the presence of Mlsa and I-E products either on bone marrow-derived cells or on irradiated recipient cells. Tolerance was induced when Mlsa and I-E were expressed by distinct cells of the chimera. Also neonatally tolerized mice exhibited depletion of V beta 6+ cells after injection of I-E- Mlsa spleen cells (DBA/1) into newborn I-E+ Mlsb mice (BALB/c x B10.G)F1. These results suggest that the product of the Mlsa locus is soluble and/or may be transferred from cell to cell and bound to I-E antigens. The chimera experiments also showed that tolerance to Mlsa is H-2 allele independent, i.e., is apparently unrestricted. Differentiation of chimeric (H-2d/Mlsa x H-2q/Mlsb)F1 stem cells in either an H 2d or an H-2q thymus revealed that tolerance assessed by absence of V beta 6+ T cells is not dependent on the thymically determined restriction specificity of T cells. PMID- 2526852 TI - An on-line investigation of prototype and exemplar strategies in classification. AB - Although prototype- and exemplar-based models of categorization are very different in character, they have proved difficult to distinguish experimentally. The research described here presents a priming technique for assessing the type of information retrieved at the moment that a categorization decision is made. This technique avoids many of the problems inherent in the standard paradigms. Data from six experiments are presented that demonstrate the usefulness of the technique and also address basic questions about the categorization process. Results bolster previous suggestions that categorization strategies may be mixed within a single experimental task and highlight the need for more specific predictions about when each strategy will come into play. PMID- 2526851 TI - Prostaglandins from human T suppressor/cytotoxic cells modulate natural killer antibacterial activity. AB - We have recently described potent antibacterial activity of purified human NK cells. Here we show that this function is regulated by T cytotoxic/suppressor CD8+ cells. Thus, coculture of NK and CD8+ cells for 3 h or longer times abrogated the expression of the NK antibacterial activity, and of two activation markers IL-2R and transferrin receptor (Tf-R). The suppressive activity was mediated by PGE2 as demonstrated by direct PGE2 determination in CD8+ cell free supernatants, and by inhibition of CD8+ cell suppression with indomethacin or piroxicam in vitro. We also found that resting T cytotoxic/suppressor cells purified by negative selection produce higher amounts of PGE2 than adherent cells like monocytes and macrophages, and that these concentration levels are in the range of concentrations known to suppress a significant number of in vitro immunologic functions. PMID- 2526853 TI - Base-rate effects in category learning: a comparison of parallel network and memory storage-retrieval models. AB - Exemplar-memory and adaptive network models were compared in application to category learning data, with special attention to base rate effects on learning and transfer performance. Subjects classified symptom charts of hypothetical patients into disease categories, with informative feedback on learning trials and with the feedback either given or withheld on test trials that followed each fourth of the learning series. The network model proved notably accurate and uniformly superior to the exemplar model in accounting for the detailed course of learning; both the parallel, interactive aspect of the network model and its particular learning algorithm contribute to this superiority. During learning, subjects' performance reflected both category base rates and feature (symptom) probabilities in a nearly optimal manner, a result predicted by both models, though more accurately by the network model. However, under some test conditions, the data showed substantial base-rate neglect, in agreement with Gluck and Bower (1988b). PMID- 2526854 TI - Categorizing objects in isolation and in scenes: what a superordinate is good for. AB - Many studies have shown that subjects are faster at categorizing objects into "basic" concepts than into more general superordinate concepts. However, all of these studies have used a categorization task in which single, isolated objects are identified. There is good reason to believe that superordinate concepts are typically used to refer to collections of objects rather than to individual objects. For example, people more often use the term furniture to refer to a number of pieces of furniture rather than to name a single piece. This suggest that superordinate concepts include information about multiple objects and their common relations, particularly the typical scenes in which such objects appear. Four experiments examined this possibility by investigating whether the basic concept advantage will decrease or reverse itself when subjects are asked to categorize an object as part of a scene. The results showed that the basic superordinate difference did decrease when subjects categorized objects in scenes. Furthermore, when an object was placed in an inappropriate scene, there was more interference for superordinate identifications. The results suggest qualitative differences in the representations of superordinate and basic concepts. PMID- 2526855 TI - Context and lexical access: implications of nonword interference for lexical ambiguity resolution. AB - To eliminate potential "backward" priming effects, Glucksberg, Kreuz, and Rho (1986) introduced a variant of the cross-modal lexical priming task in which subjects made lexical decisions to nonword targets that were modeled on a word related to either the contextually biased or unbiased sense of an ambiguous word. Lexical decisions to nonwords were longer than controls only when the nonword was related to the contextually biased sense of the ambiguous word, leading Glucksberg et al. to conclude that context does constrain lexical access and that the multiple access pattern observed in previous studies was probably an artifact of backward priming. We did not find nonword interference when the nonword targets used by Glucksberg et al. were preceded by semantically related ambiguous or unambiguous word primes. However, we did replicate their sentence context results when the ambiguous words were removed from the sentences. We conclude that the interference obtained by Glucksberg et al. is due to postlexical judgements of the congruence of the sentence context and the target, not to context constraining lexical access. PMID- 2526856 TI - Changes in activation levels with negation. AB - Three experiments investigated the effects of negation during on-line language processing. It was hypothesized that negation of a noun (e.g., no bread) would affect the activation level of the mental representation of that noun. Experiment 1 manipulated the location of the negation in sentences that were followed by a probe recognition task. Subjects were slower to indicate that a probe had been in the sentence when the probe corresponded to a negated noun. Experiment 2 replicated these results with a probe naming task. Experiment 3 replicated the result that reading the phrase no bread inhibits responses to bread in the probe task but found no evidence of inhibition of the response to an associate probe, such as butter. The results of these three studies suggest that negation affects the discourse focus of a noun phrase, and hence the activation level of its representation. PMID- 2526857 TI - Effects of talker variability on recall of spoken word lists. AB - Three experiments were conducted to investigate recall of lists of words containing items spoken by either a single talker or by different talkers. In each experiment, recall of early list items was better for lists spoken by a single talker than for lists of the same words spoken by different talkers. The use of a memory preload procedure demonstrated that recall of visually presented preload digits was superior when the words in a subsequent list were spoken by a single talker than by different talkers. In addition, a retroactive interference task demonstrated that the effects of talker variability on the recall of early list items were not due to use of talker-specific acoustic cues in working memory at the time of recall. Taken together, the results suggest that word lists produced by different talkers require more processing resources in working memory than do lists produced by a single talker. The findings are discussed in terms of the role that active rehearsal plays in the transfer of spoken items into long term memory and the factors that may affect the efficiency of rehearsal. PMID- 2526858 TI - A reexamination of the role of imagery in learning and memory. AB - Five experiments were conducted to examine whether the superior recall of concrete over abstract words might be better accounted for in terms of relative differences in the processing of relational and distinctive information rather than redundant verbal and imaginal memory codes. Concrete and abstract word pairs were presented in the standard paired-associated learning task or under conditions intended to affect the nature and extent of relational processing between pair members. Concreteness effects were attenuated or eliminated when relational processing was prevented at encoding (Experiments 3, 4, and 5) or when the use of encoded relations within pairs was prevented at recall (Experiments 1, 2, and 3). The results indicated the viability of an account of concreteness effects in paired-associate learning based on the joint functions of distinctive and relational information. They also remove theoretical constraints imposed on imagery theories by the incorrect assumption of a uniform presence of concreteness effects in memory for word lists. PMID- 2526859 TI - Impaired priming of new associations in amnesia. AB - We assessed priming of new associations in amnesic patients and healthy control subjects in a paradigm developed by Graf and Schacter (1985). Subjects were presented unrelated word pairs embedded in sentences (e.g., A BELL was hanging over the baby's CRADLE) and were asked to rate how well the sentences related the two words. Subjects were then given a word completion test. They were shown three letter word stems and were asked to complete the stem with the first word that came to mind. In the same context condition, each word stem was presented together with the word that had appeared in the same sentence during study (e.g., BELL-CRA--). In the different context condition, each stem was presented together with a new word that had never been presented (e.g., APPLE-CRA--). Control subjects completed more words in the same context condition than in the different context condition. In contrast, amnesic patients did not complete any more words in the same context condition than in the different context condition. Indeed, across two experiments none of the amnesic patients exhibited consistent priming of new associations. Thus, although amnesic patients do exhibit entirely normal priming of preexisting memory representations, they do not appear to exhibit priming of new associations in this paradigm. PMID- 2526860 TI - Indomethacin-associated sexual dysfunction. PMID- 2526861 TI - Dissociated antibody responses to the S and pre-S2 regions of the hepatitis B virus after vaccination in hemophiliacs. AB - The membranes of hepatocytes and the pre-S2 envelope protein of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) contain binding sites for polymerized human albumin, which is thought to act as a link between HBV and hepatocytes. Hence, anti-pre-S2 antibodies should prevent HBV uptake by the liver, and there is indeed preliminary evidence that they protect chimpanzees from HBV infection. To evaluate whether a plasma derived vaccine containing the pre-S2 sequence induced an anti-pre-S2 response in 105 vaccinated hemophiliacs, anti-pre-S2 was measured in parallel with antibody to hepatitis B surface antigen (anti-HBs). Eighty-five percent of the hemophiliacs had both anti-pre-S2 and anti-HBs when vaccination was completed, 13% had anti-HBs alone, and 2% (two cases) had anti-pre-S2 alone. Eighty-seven percent of anti-pre-S2-positive hemophiliacs compared with only 50% of anti-pre S2-negative hemophiliacs (P less than 0.001) developed high anti-HBs titers (greater than or equal to 1,000 mlU/ml). This study demonstrates, therefore, that the antibody responses to the S and pre-S2 regions of HBV may be dissociated after vaccination in hemophiliacs and that higher anti-HBs titers are attained in anti-pre-S2-positive hemophiliacs. PMID- 2526862 TI - Numbers of host "helper" T cells and proliferating cells predict survival in diffuse small-cell lymphomas. AB - Diffuse small-cell lymphomas of B-lineage comprise a group of immunophenotypically related lymphoid malignancies that display variable clinical aggressiveness. We compared a variety of clinical, pathologic, and immunologic characteristics of 64 B-lineage diffuse small-cell lymphomas to patient survival in an effort to define prognostically relevant subtypes of these neoplasms. Neither clinical parameters nor histological subclassification correlated with patient outcome. In contrast, three immunologic features of these lymphomas showed a statistically significant relationship with actuarial survival. Neoplasms that manifested greater than or equal to 25% Ki-67+ cells (proliferation-associated antigen), less than 25% Leu 4+ cells (pan-T antigen), or less than 15% Leu 3+ cells (helper/inducer T-subset antigen) were associated with significantly decreased patient survival as compared to neoplasms with the reverse phenotype (P = .02, P = .003, P = .0005, respectively). Leu 3 findings were of particular importance in initial biopsies (P = .0007), while the Ki-67 findings were significant regardless of time of biopsy (P = .01 for biopsies at diagnosis and P = .004 for other biopsies). These data indicate that immunologic analysis can demonstrate subsets of diffuse small-cell lymphoma with different biologic potential, and suggest that such analysis be included in the routine work-up of patients with this type of neoplasm. PMID- 2526863 TI - Goserelin, a depot gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist in the treatment of premenopausal patients with metastatic breast cancer. German Zoladex Trial Group. AB - One hundred thirty-four pre- and perimenopausal patients presenting with metastatic breast cancer (median age, 42 years; range, 25 to 55) were treated with goserelin (Zoladex [ICI 118 630]; ICI Pharma, Plankstadt, Germany) a long acting gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH)-analogue depot formulation, injected subcutaneously every 4 weeks, as a first-line therapy. One hundred eighteen patients were evaluable for response. Serum concentrations of estradiol, luteinizing hormones (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormones were significantly suppressed by Zoladex. Mean serum estradiol values fell into the range of castrated or postmenopausal women within 2 to 3 weeks of therapy. This suppression was maintained for the duration of therapy. Overall objective response was: 12 (10.2%) complete remission; 41 (34.7%) partial remission; 33 (28.0%) no change; and 32 (27.1%) progression. In responders, the median time to response was 4 months (range, 2 to 11 months), median duration of response was 8 + months (range 2 to 24 months), and median time to progression was 11 + months (range, 5 to 30 months). Objective responses were seen for different sites of metastases: loco-regional (62.5%), bone (46.7%), visceral (45.0%), and multiple (35.1%). Tumor remission was more common in patients in which the primary tumor was estrogen receptor (ER)-positive (49.3%) or ER-unknown (44.0%), but appreciable response rates were also observed in ER-poor patients (33.3%). Zoladex depot was well tolerated both locally and systemically. It produced effective castration and the objective response rates and duration of remission are at least comparable to those seen following oophorectomy; however, the side effects are less. The use of depot Zoladex avoids the psychological trauma and operative morbidity of the irreversible operative castration. PMID- 2526864 TI - Dose ranging phase I study of the serotonin antagonist GR38032F for prevention of cisplatin-induced nausea and vomiting. AB - GR38032F is a specific 5-HT3 (serotonin) receptor antagonist with antiemetic activity in animal and early human studies. We performed a dose-ranging phase I study of GR38032F in 43 evaluable patients receiving cisplatin 60 120 mg/m2 for the first time (38 of these patients were chemotherapy-naive). Intravenous GR38032F was administered over a dose range from 0.01 to 0.48 mg/kg given three times at four-hour intervals beginning one half hour before cisplatin, and patients were observed for 24 hours. An additional five patients were treated with 0.18 mg/kg given three times at six-hour intervals. Excellent antiemetic efficacy was noted, with 44% of patients experiencing no vomiting and 26% no nausea. Major protection from vomiting (less than or equal to 2 episodes) and from nausea (less than or equal to 2 hours) was experienced by 81% and 44%, respectively. Mild to moderate headache (40%), lightheadedness (21%), and elevated transaminase (19%) were the most common adverse events reported. One patient experienced an apparent hypersensitivity reaction that responded to conventional medications. No extrapyramidal reactions or akathisia were seen. GR38032F was effective through most of the dose range. However, efficacy decreased at the 0.01 mg/kg level and number and intensity of adverse events increased at the 0.48 mg/kg level. Analysis of those patients receiving high-dose cisplatin (100 to 120 mg/m2) revealed a positive association of GR38032F dose and antiemetic activity (Fisher's exact test, two-sided; P less than .05). The 5-HT3 receptor antagonists may provide antiemetic efficacy similar to high-dose metoclopramide without antidopaminergic toxicity. The maximum recommended dose on this schedule of GR38032F is 0.36 mg/kg. PMID- 2526865 TI - Picking winners and losers in diffuse small-cell lymphomas. PMID- 2526866 TI - Sodium balance and extracellular volume regulation in very low birth weight infants. AB - We assessed sodium balance and extracellular volume regulation in very low birth weight infants by examining the effect of differences in sodium intake on postnatal sodium homeostasis and body water composition. Twenty infants (mean birth weight 1103 +/- 216 gm, mean gestation 28.5 +/- 1.7 weeks) were randomly assigned to receive sodium in doses of either 1 or 3 mmol.kg-1.day-1 for the first 10 postnatal days. Extracellular volume (estimated by the bromide dilution method), sodium excretion, creatinine clearance, fractional sodium excretion, plasma atrial natriuretic factor level, urine aldosterone concentration, and vasopressin excretion were measured on postnatal days 1, 5, 10, 20, and 30. The corrected bromide space was large at birth and decreased in both groups during the first 5 days of observation, concomitant with a negative sodium balance. After 5 days of age, sodium excretion decreased in both groups so that sodium balance became positive and the corrected bromide space increased in proportion to increasing body weight. Differences in sodium intake were associated with differences in tubular sodium reabsorption; corrected bromide space and net sodium balance were similar in the two groups. Serum sodium concentration was significantly lower in the low-sodium intake group. Creatinine clearance, plasma atrial natriuretic factor level, and excretion of aldosterone and vasopressin were not significantly different between the two groups. We conclude that very low birth weight infants are able to regulate sodium balance by altering renal sodium excretion. However, the renal response to sodium intake may be insufficient to prevent changes in serum sodium concentration. The roles of specific renal and hormonal mechanisms regulating sodium excretion in very low birth weight infants remain incompletely defined. PMID- 2526867 TI - Family resources as resistance factors for psychological maladjustment in chronically ill and handicapped children. AB - The hypothesis that their psychological adjustment is related in part to resources present in their families was investigated in 153 children, age 4-16, who had one of five chronic physical disorders: juvenile diabetes, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, chronic obesity, spina bifida, or cerebral palsy. Their mothers completed standardized psychometric instruments to measure specific dimensions of family psychological and utilitarian resources and of child adjustment. Variation in children's psychological adjustment was related both to their psychological and utilitarian family resources. Psychological family resources contributed uniquely to the prediction of adjustment beyond that provided by utilitarian family resources. These results are discussed as having implications for the identification of chronically ill and handicapped children at risk for adjustment difficulties. PMID- 2526868 TI - Adjustment of siblings of handicapped children: a comparison. AB - Compared 55 older siblings (ages 7 1/2 to 15 years) of young handicapped children (ages 1-7 years) with 55 matched siblings of nonhandicapped children. Results of standardized children's assessment scales show that siblings of handicapped children are comparable to siblings of nonhandicapped children in self-concept, behavior problems, and social competence. Differences, however, appear along certain psychological dimensions and great variations exist within each group of siblings. Further, demographic and personal attributes are differentially related to measures of adjustment in different groups of siblings. Implications for research and intervention are drawn. PMID- 2526869 TI - Defective T cell colony formation and IL-2 receptor expression in HIV-infected homosexuals: relationship between functional abnormalities and CD4 cell numbers. AB - HIV infection is known to induce a progressive T helper/inducer (CD4) lymphopenia and to impair the functional activities of residual cells. The present studies examined the relationship between the CD4 cell count and three functional assays: T cell colony formation in semisolid media, the capacity of PHA-stimulated cells to express IL-2 receptors, and their ability to synthesize and secrete IL-2. Cells from antibody-positive homosexuals with normal numbers of CD4 cells (greater than 700/microliters) showed defective reactivity in two assays, colony growth, and IL-2 receptor expression. These defects became progressively more pronounced in homosexuals with moderate (400-700 cells/microliters) and severe (less than 400/microliters) reductions in assays for IL-2 production by PHA stimulated lymphocytes. Mixing experiments suggest that cells from HIV-infected men nonspecifically inhibit the colony growth of normal cells; this abnormality could be reversed by addition of exogenous IL-2. These data suggest that defective colony growth and reduced IL-2 expression are functional abnormalities directly resulting from HIV infection. Furthermore, these changes can precede the CD4 lymphopenia induced by this viral infection. PMID- 2526870 TI - Experimental infection of cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis) with HIV-2. AB - Ten healthy adult cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis) were inoculated with two different isolates of human immunodeficiency virus type 2 (HIV-2), SBL-6669 and SBL-K135, to establish an animal model for HIV infection. HIV-2SBL-6669 had been propagated for a long time in continuous human cell lines whereas HIV-2SBL K135 had been grown only in fresh human and monkey lymphocyte cultures or previously for a short time in a continuous cell line. Virus was isolated from three or four animals inoculated with HIV-2SBL-K135 but in none of six monkeys inoculated with HIV-2SBL-6669. All animals seroconverted although the antibody response was higher in SBL-K135 virus-infected monkeys. Varying degrees of lymphadenopathy were observed but there were no significant changes in the numbers of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. The infection was transferred to two monkeys inoculated with blood from a previously SBL-K135 virus-infected monkey. Four animals inoculated with HIV-2SBL-K135, which had never been propagated in continuous human cell lines, showed strong antibody responses against both gag- and env- encoded proteins of HIV-2. None of the SBL-6669 infected monkeys showed antibodies to core proteins. HIV-2 infection of cynomolgus monkeys represents a useful experimental model for HIV vaccine trials and antiviral testing. PMID- 2526872 TI - T lymphocyte subset changes in human immunodeficiency virus infection. AB - The absolute number of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells was determined by an immunomagnetic technique directly in the blood of 75 healthy controls and 223 HIV-infected individuals. The HIV-seropositive individuals were also classified clinically according to the system recommended by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and the CDC classification was correlated with the patients' T cell subset counts. Compared to the control group, the HIV-infected individuals demonstrated an early and sustained increase in the number of CD8+ T cells with median values of CDC groups II, III, and IV C2 twice that observed in the control group. Patients with AIDS had CD8+ T cell counts comparable to those of the control group. The HIV infected individuals showed a decrease in the number of CD4+ T cells correlating with clinical deterioration of the disease. T cell subset counts significantly distinguished the group of healthy seropositive individuals from those with HIV related disease, and the group of patients with AIDS from those with other HIV related opportunistic infections. PMID- 2526871 TI - Successful prophylaxis of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia with trimethoprim sulfamethoxazole in AIDS patients with previous allergic reactions. AB - Thirty-four homosexual patients with AIDS were treated for Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia between April 1984 and November 1985. All 31 survivors were treated with oral trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) prophylaxis immediately upon completion of intravenous therapy, despite the prior occurrence of hypersensitivity reactions to intravenous TMP-SMX in 21 of these patients. Only four patients had subsequent reactions to oral TMP-SMX requiring the drug's discontinuation. None of the patients remaining on prophylaxis developed recurrent Pneumocystis pneumonia. Oral TMP-SMX appears effective at preventing recurrent Pneumocystis pneumonia in patients with AIDS. Hypersensitivity reactions during therapy with TMP-SMX may not be a contraindication to continuation of therapy and subsequent oral prophylaxis. PMID- 2526873 TI - Effects of streptozotocin- and alloxan-induced diabetes mellitus on mouse follicular and early embryo development. AB - Mice were made diabetic by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin or alloxan. Germinal vesicle breakdown in the ovarian follicles at 8 h after hCG in control animals (57%) was significantly greater than in streptozotocin-(24%) and alloxan-(42%) diabetic animals (P less than 0.001). This delay in oocyte maturation was reversible by in-vivo insulin administration to diabetic mice. A developmental delay was also found for embryos recovered from diabetic mice. This developmental delay extended into the 72 h in-vitro cultures. Compared to control embryos, those from alloxan- and streptozotocin-treated mice demonstrated marked impairment in development as assessed by (1) distribution of developmental cell stages at each observation period and (2) rates of development which increasingly diverged at each observation period. In diabetic mice treated with insulin in vivo, the percentage of 2-cell embryos recovered increased. Furthermore, in streptozotocin- and alloxan-animals treated with insulin, the rate of in-vitro development of embryos, as well as their developmental stage distribution improved. We therefore suggest that uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, as well as contributing to the development of congenital malformations, may deleteriously affect reproductive performance both before fertilization and at the very earliest gestational stages. PMID- 2526874 TI - Semen characteristics and testosterone profiles in ferrets kept in a long-day photoperiod, and the influence of hCG timing and sperm dilution medium on pregnancy rate after laparoscopic insemination. AB - Five domestic ferrets previously maintained for 12 weeks under a 16L:8D photoperiod were electroejaculated weekly for 15-65 weeks while continuing to be exposed to the prolonged light cycle. Two ferrets sustained spermatogenesis for 20 and 26 weeks, while sperm production in the remaining males either was sporadic or decreased, remained depressed and then increased to peak levels observed in other males. Regardless of the temporal spermatogenesis patterns within males, the number of electroejaculated spermatozoa with residual cytoplasmic droplets or abnormal acrosomes increased in all ferrets over time. Diluted ejaculates meeting artificial insemination criteria were deposited intravaginally or by transabdominal laparoscopy into the uterine horns of females treated 0 or 24 h earlier with 90 i.u. hCG. Vaginal insemination was ineffective (0 pregnancies in 10 attempts), but 17/24 ferrets (70.8%) inseminated laparoscopically became pregnant and delivered live young (mean litter size, 5.2 kits). Number of motile spermatozoa deposited in utero (1.6-10.0 x 10(6) cells), presence of glycerol in the sperm dilution medium (0 versus 4%) and time of hCG administration (0 versus 24 h before insemination) had no effect on pregnancy results or litter size. PMID- 2526875 TI - HLA-B27 testing in ankylosing spondylitis: an analysis of the pretesting assumptions. AB - Typing for histocompatibility antigen HLA-B27 has been suggested as a useful diagnostic test for ankylosing spondylitis (AS) in certain clinical situations. The appropriate use of any diagnostic test requires the clinician to estimate the likelihood of disease before the test is performed. One clinical situation in which B27 testing has been suggested to be useful is in the investigation of a patient with low back pain suggestive of AS but with normal sacroiliac radiographs. We analyze here the sequence of steps taken by the clinican in estimating the likelihood of AS. The assumptions that must be made to render B27 typing useful are calculated. PMID- 2526876 TI - Immune complex disease and gynecomastia. AB - A man with arthritis, gynecomastia and a rash histologically showing leukocytoclastic vasculitis, dermatitis herpetiformis and immunoglobulin G deposits at the dermoepidermal junction is reported. In contrast to cases of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) associated with vesiculobullous eruptions and similar histological features, our patient had neither bullae nor serological evidence of SLE. Conversely, no men already reported had evidence of feminization. Thus, our case appears to be unique. PMID- 2526877 TI - Arteriohepatic dysplasia (Alagille's syndrome) with keratoderma. PMID- 2526878 TI - Old age in Down's syndrome. PMID- 2526879 TI - Neuropsychological evaluation of adults with Down's syndrome: patterns of selective impairment in non-demented old adults. AB - A battery of neuropsychological tests, developed to study patterns of age-related differences in adults with Down's syndrome (DS), was administered to 10 DS adults over age 35 and 19 younger DS adults. Although all adults with DS are reported to develop the neuropathological changes of Alzheimer's disease by the fourth decade of life, only four of the 10 old DS adults were judged to have dementia based on clinical criteria. Demented old DS adults had global neuropsychological deficits, as indicated by significant differences on all functions tested except some simple language functions. In contrast, non-demented old adults had a selective pattern of neuropsychological reductions relative to young adults. Ability to form new long-term memories and visuospatial construction were consistently diminished, whereas immediate memory span and language were not. The global mental decline observed in demented adults suggests a stage of disease progression that corresponds to severe dementia in premorbidly normal adults with dementia of the Alzheimer type (DAT). The prominent long-term memory impairment with selective reductions of nonmemory functions in non-demented adults suggests a correspondence to early and intermediate DAT. PMID- 2526880 TI - Basal metabolic rate in healthy Down's syndrome adults. AB - Basal metabolic rate (BMR) was measured on 2 consecutive days with an open circuit, indirect calorimeter in 16 healthy subjects with trisomy 21 Down's syndrome (DS) aged 22-35 years and 11 healthy control volunteers aged 20-31 years. BMR measurements did not differ on consecutive days in either the DS or control groups. Absolute BMR, BMR corrected for surface area, and BMR corrected for lean body mass did not differ between the DS subjects and the volunteers. The per cent of predicted BMR also did not differ between the two groups. These results suggest that systems controlling basal metabolism are not affected by extra genomic material from chromosome 21. PMID- 2526881 TI - Cystathioninuria in Down's syndrome. AB - Secondary cystathioninuria is associated with various pathological conditions (Gjessing, 1963; Gjessing & Mauritzen, 1965; Endres & Wuttge, 1978). In many cases, cystathioninuria has been associated with mental retardation (Harris et al., 1959; Robb et al., 1984). As far as the authors know, cystathioninuria has not previously been described in Down's syndrome. In 1981, in the author's institution for the mentally retarded, all patients with Down's syndrome were screened with regard to aminoaciduria, using thin layer chromatography. In the course of this process, a case of cystathioninuria was discovered. The results are presented in detail. PMID- 2526882 TI - Urinary levels of taurine in mentally retarded children. AB - Urinary taurine levels were estimated in 29 mentally retarded children. These levels were then compared with those of normal healthy children. The urinary taurine levels were significantly higher in the mentally retarded subjects. There is probably an intriguing relationship between taurine levels and mental retardation. PMID- 2526883 TI - [Role of plasminogen binding site of alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor on the initiation and regulation of fibrinolysis]. PMID- 2526884 TI - [Recent progress on analysis of blood coagulation factors and fibrinolytic agents; alpha 2 plasmin inhibitor plasmin complex]. PMID- 2526885 TI - [Activation of intravascular coagulation and fibrinolysis in cases of APL]. PMID- 2526886 TI - [Placental calcium-phospholipid binding protein (calphobindin)]. PMID- 2526887 TI - [The role of C4bp in the anticoagulant protein C.S pathway]. PMID- 2526888 TI - [Changes in coagulation inhibitors (AT III, protein C, protein S) in patients with liver cirrhosis]. PMID- 2526889 TI - [Alteration of prostaglandin metabolism in alcoholic liver disease: its association with platelet dysfunction after chronic alcohol ingestion]. AB - Recently, hepatic microcirculation has been focused on as an important pathogenic factor in progression of alcoholic liver disease (ALD). Therefore, blood levels of several prostaglandins, which are associated with organ microcirculation, were determined in various liver diseases, including ALD. Blood thromboxane B2 (TXB2) level was significantly increased in ALD, when compared to other types of liver diseases, whereas both 6-keto prostaglandin F1 alpha (6-keto PGF1 alpha) and prostaglandin E were not changed. These consequences resulted in the imbalance of 6-keto PGF1 alpha to TXB2, which might promote platelet aggregation and blood vessel contraction. Indeed, the increase of beta-thromboglobulin and platelet factor 4 in blood was observed in ALD. Furthermore, in ALD, the rate of arachidonate-induced platelet aggregation was prominently enhanced, and malondialdehyde production in platelet, which was well correlated with blood TXB2 levels, significantly increased. Thus, the present study may indicate that, in ALD, hyper-aggregability of platelet is produced, because of the derangement of prostaglandin metabolism and platelet dysfunction. PMID- 2526890 TI - [Automatic control of total artificial heart to simulate the hemodynamics under natural heart circulation]. AB - We developed control system of total artificial heart (TAH) during exercise simulating the circulatory response of natural heart. The following procedures were taken to develop this system. 1) Measurement of hemodynamics and physical activity rate (PAR) of natural heart goats during treadmill exercise. 2) Estimation of cardiac output from PAR using a non-linear model. 3) Development of a pneumatic artificial heart (AH) driver with high speed controllability and a control unit to deliver CO calculated from PAR beat by beat. 4) Evaluation of the physiological condition of the TAH goat during exercise controlled by this system. Using this control method, CO of TAH goats was similar to that of natural heart goats during treadmill exercise. Hypertension was observed during exercise. This hypertension was considered to be derived from two causes. One was high inflow and outflow resistance of cannulae between AH pump and living body. The other was the disorder of peripheral circulatory control mechanism in TAH animal. Such as increased sympathetic activity, insufficient secretion of atrial natriuretic polypeptide (ANP) and decreased sensitivity of peripheral circulatory system with ANP. PMID- 2526892 TI - [Painless myocardial ischemia: its pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment]. PMID- 2526891 TI - [Renovascular hypertension]. AB - Renal artery stenosis is one of the most important forms of secondary hypertension. For years, the only causative treatment was nephrectomy. With rapid advances in cardiovascular and transplantation surgery, operative procedures in renovascular hypertension become more and more sophisticated. Revascularization is superior to medical management of renovascular hypertension in terms of preserved renal function. In recent years, surgical result have been excellent, and even patients with rather complex forms of renovascular hypertension have been successfully operated upon. New classes of antihypertensive drugs, particularly beta-blockers and angiotensin I converting enzyme inhibitors, have enabled the control of blood pressure in most patients with renovascular hypertension but do not assure preservation of renal function. Finally, a fascinating technique, the percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty, has rapidly advanced to become one of the most popular methods in the treatment of hypertension secondary to renal artery stenosis. However, percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty is the treatment of choice for most nonostial, nonocclusive lesions. PMID- 2526893 TI - [Changes in basic hemodynamic and electrocardiographic parameters in patients with severe vasorenal hypertension]. AB - Major hemodynamic and electrocardiographic parameters were examined in 47 patients with severe vasorenal hypertension at rest, and in 20 patients after stress exposure. Three (hyper-, eu- and hypokinetic) types of circulation were demonstrated, like the ones seen in essential hypertension. Hemodynamic values at rest were indicative of relative cardiovascular compensation in severe vasorenal hypertension. Stress testing demonstrated that exercise disrupted that compensation. Arterial blood pressure response to physical stress showed no correlation to baseline values of the parameters examined. PMID- 2526894 TI - [Stereometric evaluation of the myocardial cardiomyocyte-capillary ratio in emotional and pain-induced stress after administration of thiamine and nicotinamide]. AB - The effects of thiamin and nicotinamide on left-ventricular myocardial cardiomyocyte/capillary ratio at the outcome of lasting emotional/painful stress have been examined in rats, using stereometric techniques. Thiamin is shown to be capable of preventing, to a certain extent, myocardial microcirculatory disturbances and, hence, preventing oxygen deficiency. Preventive administration of nicotinamide cannot, on the contrary, prevent microcirculatory disturbances. Specific action of vitamins seems to be determined by the mechanisms of glucocorticoid secretion stimulation (nicotinamide) and antistress effect (thiamin). It is proposed that thiamin may be used to prevent stress-related myocardial damage. PMID- 2526895 TI - [Laparoscopy in acute intestinal obstruction]. AB - The results of the use of emergency laparoscopy in 78 patients are presented. Of 25 patients with clinical signs of acute ileus (AI), the diagnosis was confirmed in 12, of 42 with suspected AI--in 14. In 11 cases, AI was a laparoscopic finding. In 18% of the cases, no changes in the internal organs were revealed at investigation, in 30.8%--the other diseases of the abdominal organs were diagnosed. In 6 patients, AI was dynamic, in 8--strangulative, in 23- obstructive. Laparoscopic investigation performed in 94.9% of cases permitted to establish the accurate diagnosis. PMID- 2526896 TI - [Laparoscopic diagnosis of acute mesenteric lymphadenitis]. AB - In 14 patients with non-specific mesadenitis, the diagnosis was established at emergency laparoscopy, performed for suspected acute appendicitis. Laparoscopic semiotics of the disease is described. Conservative treatment with additional local administration of drugs was successful. The mean duration of the in hospital treatment of the patients was 4.6 days. PMID- 2526897 TI - [A false symptom of acute abdomen in spontaneous hematoma of the anterior abdominal wall]. PMID- 2526898 TI - [Effectiveness of laparoscopy in acute abdominal diseases and injuries]. PMID- 2526899 TI - [Study of respiratory vibrations of the anterior abdominal wall in acute cholecystitis and acute appendicitis]. PMID- 2526901 TI - [Localization of atheroma in the muscles of the anterior abdominal wall]. PMID- 2526900 TI - [Laparoscopic sign of local intestinal paresis in abscess of the abdominal cavity]. PMID- 2526903 TI - The interplay of communication device output mode and interaction style between nonspeaking persons and their speaking partners. AB - This study sought to determine how augmentative communication device output modes differentially affected various aspects of interactions between nonspeaking persons (NSPs) and their speaking partners (SPs). It was hypothesized that when an electronic output display (EOD) was added to a communication board, the semipermanent display of information would lessen the dyad's need to adopt specialized turn and message formulation conventions, permitting the NSP to construct more complex messages with fewer communication breakdowns. A series of 10 interactional teaching tasks were recorded for two adult male nonhandicapped dyads performing under the two output conditions (+/- EOD). Interaction transcripts were analyzed with regard to quantitative differences within and between dyads with respect to turn taking, message formulation, propositional content, and several types of insertion sequences (guessing, confirmation queries, message reformulations). With the exception of message reformulation, changes due to output mode were nonexistent or inconsistent for the variables measured within and across dyads. The addition of the EOD significantly lowered the rate of message reformulation and the total number of reformulation-related turns. Results are discussed with regard to research and clinical implications for augmentative communication. PMID- 2526902 TI - [2 cases of spontaneous skin laceration of an umbilical hernia in patients with liver cirrhosis and ascites]. PMID- 2526904 TI - Communicative performance of adolescents with severe speech impairment: influence of context. AB - The communicative performance of 4 preoperational-level adolescents, using limited speech, gestures, and communication board techniques, was examined in a two-part investigation. In Part 1, each subject participated in an academic interaction with a teacher in a therapy room. Data were transcribed and coded for communication mode, function, and role. Two subjects were found to predominantly use the speech mode, while the remaining 2 predominantly used board and one other mode. The majority of productions consisted of responses to requests, and the initiator role was infrequently occupied. These findings were similar to those reported in previous investigations conducted in classroom settings. In Part 2, another examination of the communicative performance of these subjects was conducted in spontaneous interactions involving speaking and nonspeaking peers in a therapy room. Using the same data analysis procedures, gesture and speech modes predominated for 3 of the subjects in the nonspeaking peer interactions. The remaining subject exhibited minimal interaction. No consistent pattern of mode usage was exhibited across the speaking peer interactions. In the nonspeaking peer interactions, request predominated. In contrast, a variety of communication functions was exhibited in the speaking peer interactions. Both the initiator and the maintainer roles were occupied in the majority of interactions. Pertinent variables and clinical implications are discussed. PMID- 2526905 TI - Effects of in vitro aging on human endothelial cell adherence to dacron vascular graft material. AB - The adherence and growth characteristics of cultured human adult large vessel endothelial cells (EC) maintained on substrate-coated polyethylene terephthalate in the form of woven dacron vascular graft were examined. Two different populations of EC, a low passage (EC (low] and a high passage (EC (high] population, were incubated at cell densities from 10(3) to 10(5) EC/cm2 for 24 hr. Cell counts were performed at 24 hr and after 14 days in tissue culture. At 24 hr on collagen I/III-coated Dacron, EC adherence was independent of the number of passages or the incubation density. When examined after 14 days in culture only EC (low) incubated at 10(5) EC/cm2 maintained initial cell numbers. Human plasma precipitated upon Dacron was necessary before significant cell growth occurred. We conclude that increasing in vitro EC age is associated with decreasing attachment and growth on Dacron. Growth on this important vascular replacement surface requires low passage EC incubated at a high density and the presence of plasma proteins in the substrate coating. PMID- 2526907 TI - Cyclic and sequential therapy with tamoxifen and medroxyprogesterone acetate in metastatic breast cancer. AB - A clinical trial of sequential tamoxifen and medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) was carried out in 36 women with metastatic breast cancer in order to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of this regimen and to determine if tamoxifen would increase progesterone receptor (PR) levels and thereby increase response to MPA. Fourteen patients (39%) responded to this treatment, with the duration of remission ranging from 2 to 24 + months (the mean and median were 11 months). In 22 patients, PR levels were measured both before and after 7 days of tamoxifen administration. In PR-positive patients, PR changes induced by tamoxifen did not appear to increase the response rate. In PR-negative patients, PR became positive in 3 patients following tamoxifen treatment, with 2 of 3 responding to treatment, whereas in 11 others whose PR levels remained negative, only one response was observed. Our results suggest that potentiation by tamoxifen was not observed, since in our previous study, MPA alone was equally effective. Thus, tamoxifen and MPA should be given independently for palliation of metastatic breast cancer, and MPA should be administered following therapy with tamoxifen. PMID- 2526906 TI - Influence of diet on plasma steroids and sex hormone-binding globulin levels in adult men. AB - Several experimental studies have suggested that diet can alter the production and metabolism of steroids in men. The purpose of this study was to determine the levels of unconjugated steroids and steroid glucuronides as well as sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) among normal adult men who were either omnivorous or vegetarians. The participants were white volunteers ranging from 25-35 years of age and the blood samples were taken between 0900 h and 1000 h and between 1600 h and 1700 h for two consecutive days. No significant statistical change was found in plasma dehydroepiandrosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, testosterone, dihydrotestosterone and estradiol levels. Vegetarian group showed a higher levels of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) while the free androgen index (FAI; calculated by the ratio testosterone/SHBG) was lower in this group. Although the concentrations of androsterone glucuronide were higher in vegetarian group, the vegetarians had a 25-50% lower level of androstane-3 alpha, 17 beta-diol glucuronide and androstane-3 beta,17 beta-diol glucuronide. Our data further indicate that both, androstane-3 alpha,17 beta-diol glucuronide and androstane-3 beta,17 beta-diol glucuronide concentrations are significantly correlated with SHBG levels and with the FAI values. The increases in androstane-3 alpha,17 beta diol glucuronide and androstane-3 beta,17 beta-diol glucuronide levels in the omnivorous group are probably a consequence of the elevation of the FAI. Our data suggest that in a vegetarian group, less testosterone is available for androgenic action. PMID- 2526908 TI - Liver blood flow measurement in the rat. The electromagnetic versus the microsphere and the clearance methods. AB - This study describes the simultaneous measurement of hepatic arterial and portal venous blood flow in the pentobarbital anesthetized rat by means of electromagnetic flowmeters. Hepatic arterial flow was 0.21 +/- 0.02 mL/min/g liver, and portal venous flow was 1.53 +/- 0.19 mL/min/g liver (n = 20). Flows remained stable for more than 3 hr. A clear advantage of the electromagnetic technique is that it allows the continuous simultaneous separate measurement of hepatic arterial and portal venous blood flow. Simultaneous measurement of hepatic blood flow by the electromagnetic method and the microsphere method yielded almost identical results. Adenosine infusion (100 micrograms/min) did not affect hepatic blood flow measured electromagnetically nor via the microsphere technique. The suitability of indocyanine green (ICG) as an indicator of hepatic blood flow was evaluated by comparing the ICG clearance at steady-state conditions to the values of liver flow obtained by direct electromagnetic measurement. ICG clearance was only 30% of the electromagnetically measured blood flow. These data strongly suggest that ICG clearance does not reflect liver flow in the rat. Intravenous infusion of the vasoactive agents phenylephrine (2, 4, 10 micrograms/min during 5 min) and adenosine (20, 40, 200 micrograms/min) did not affect portal venous nor hepatic arterial flow, measured by the electromagnetic method, although brisk effects on mean arterial blood pressure were observed. This suggests autoregulatory responses of the hepatic vascular bed. The data suggest that electromagnetic flowmeters may be used to measure portal venous and hepatic arterial flow simultaneously in anesthetized rats. The continuous measurement of both flows simultaneously offers a clear advantage over other methods of hepatic flow measurement. PMID- 2526910 TI - Strain differences in pulmonary hypertensive response to monocrotaline alkaloid and the beneficial effect of oral magnesium treatment. AB - Magnesium therapy has been shown, by us, to attenuate monocrotaline (MCT)-induced pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH), right ventricular hypertrophy and pathological changes in the pulmonary vasculature in 75% of Sprague-Dawley rats. We studied Wistar rats to determine if there was a strain difference in response to MCT and magnesium therapy. Wistar rats were given 60 mg/kg of MCT and studied 3 weeks later, following a protocol similar to that for Sprague-Dawley rats. There was 100% mortality in Wistar rats weighing less than 230 g. The mortality rate in Sprague-Dawley rats of a similar weight range was significantly less (15%). With 40 mg/kg of MCT, Wistar rats developed pulmonary hypertension and right ventricular hypertrophy comparable to those seen in Sprague-Dawley rats administered 60 mg/kg MCT. The percent weight gain over a 3-week period was significantly higher in the Wistar control group than that in the Sprague-Dawley controls (61 vs. 39%; p less than 0.05). Oral magnesium therapy (magnesium aspartate HCl) attenuated pulmonary hypertension and right ventricular hypertrophy in 100% of the Wistar rats studied. A group of Sprague-Dawley rats was given 40 mg/kg of MCT and studied 3 weeks later. PAH and right ventricular hypertrophy in this group were not significantly different from the rats of the same strain injected with the higher dose of MCT. In conclusion, faster growing rats (Wistar) appear to be more sensitive to MCT. Both strains show a significant attenuation of cardiopulmonary changes induced by MCT when treated with oral magnesium. PMID- 2526909 TI - Long-term function of human cardiac allografts assessed by two-dimensional echocardiography. AB - Previous studies from our laboratory demonstrated increasing left ventricular mass in cyclosporine-treated cardiac allograft recipients over 30 days after transplantation, but the long-term evolution of this process and possible effects on allograft function are unknown. Accordingly, quantitative two-dimensional echocardiography was performed 2 and 23 days and 15 months postoperatively in 14 recipients treated with cyclosporine and prednisone. Changes in left ventricular ejection fraction, end-diastolic volume, mass, and end-systolic wall stress were analyzed. Comparison of studies at 2 and 23 days revealed significant (p less than 0.01) increases in ejection fraction (54% +/- 8% [standard deviation] to 62% +/- 4%), end-diastolic volume (84% +/- 32 ml to 96 +/- 31 ml), and left ventricular mass (118 +/- 45 gm to 136 +/- 41 gm). Comparison of studies at 23 days and 15 months revealed no significant change in end-diastolic volume or left ventricular mass, whereas ejection fraction decreased slightly (62% +/- 4% to 57% +/- 4%, p less than 0.01). End-systolic wall stress decreased when data at 2 days and 15 months were compared (83 +/- 24 gm/cm2 versus 66 +/- 18 gm/cm2, p less than 0.05), but no change in contractility was apparent from the ejection fraction/end-systolic stress relation. We conclude that left ventricular mass and end-diastolic volume increase early after transplantation in cyclosporine-treated cardiac allograft recipients, but these changes are not predictive of long-term results, which are characterized by no significant late variation in left ventricular mass, end-diastolic volume, or contractility. PMID- 2526911 TI - [Contact dermatitis caused by heterologous proteins]. AB - A patient (gastronomic employee) presented a sharp dermatosis of eczema type in both hands. Patch-test confirmed sensitivity to heterologous proteins contained in the squid, which he was accustomed to handling. Although the levels of the IgE were elevated, the final diagnostic was dermatitis by allergic heterologous proteins. PMID- 2526912 TI - [Toxic skin reaction caused by hydantoins in a patient with AIDS]. AB - A case of clinically characteristic hypersensitivity reaction to phenytoin in a AIDS patient with cerebral toxoplasmosis is reported. There was response to therapy with systemic steroids. Laboratory data and histopathologic features of the skin are reported. PMID- 2526913 TI - [Pityrosporum ovale in seborrheic dermatitis in children and in other dermatoses in children]. AB - 60 children aged from one month to two years were studied: 15 presenting with childhood seborrheic dermatitis, 15 with childhood atopic dermatitis, 15 with various childhood dermatoses and 15 healthy asymptomatic children. Samples of cutaneous scales from the scalp, face, sternal area and inguinal area were taken for the purpose of determining the presence of ovale by direct microscopy examination and culture. P. ovale was found in 73% of the infants presenting with seborrheic dermatitis, in 33% of those with atopic dermatitis, in 33% of those with other dermatoses and in 53% of the healthy infants. The proportion of infants in whom all four samples were found to be positive to P. ovale was as follows: 42% for seborrheic dermatitis, 20% for atopic dermatitis, 20% for other childhood dermatoses and 23% in the healthy infants. The majority of infants with both positive microscopy and culture for P. ovale were aged one to eight months. The group presenting with seborrheic dermatitis was treated with 2% ketoconazole cream or two weeks. Clinical cure was achieved in 11; mycological examination was negative in 13. P. ovale was significantly more frequent in infants with seborrheic dermatitis than in infants belonging to the other three groups. The role of P. ovale in the pathophysiology of seborrheic dermatitis is discussed. PMID- 2526914 TI - Sex differences in erythrocyte membrane ATPase activities evidenced by exposing the cells to different hemolytic solutions. AB - Erythrocytes from twenty-five normal subjects were hemolyzed in both 20 mM imidazole and in ice-cold deionized water to determine their effects on membrane enzyme activities and protein concentration. Erythrocyte (Ca++)ATPase activity and membrane protein concentration were significantly different (p less than 0.01) following different hemolyses, whereas (Na+-K)ATPase and (Mg++)ATPase activities were not significantly affected. In order to test the influence of sex, erythrocyte protein concentration and enzyme activities were studied separately in male and female groups after each hemolytic solution. After hemolysis in water, females showed a significant increase in erythrocyte protein concentration (p less than 0.01) and in (Mg++)ATPase activity (p less than 0.005), whereas males showed a significant decrease in (Ca++)ATPase activity (p less than 0.02). The most reproducible results were obtained in the male group and after hemolysis in water. Females showed a significant lower mean value of cellular Na+ content (p less than 0.005) and higher mean value of K+ content as compared to males. A significant inverse relationship was found between cellular Na+ content and (Na+-K+)ATPase activity in all subjects studied (p less than 0.05). The results confirm that sex-related differences are present in the erythrocyte membrane so that hemolytic solutions in males and females can expose to a different extent membrane-bound proteins and latent ATPases. PMID- 2526916 TI - Physostigmine induced beta-endorphin release as a mechanism for physostigmine management of early alcohol withdrawal. AB - It is suggested that the mechanism involved in physostigmine management of early alcohol withdrawal may lie in physostigmine induced beta-endorphin release. PMID- 2526915 TI - Effects of dietary n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on phospholipid composition and calcium transport in mouse cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum. AB - The effects of dietary n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids on the fatty acid composition of phospholipid, Ca++. Mg++ ATPase and Ca++ transport activities of mouse sarcoplasmic reticulum were investigated. Mice were fed a 2 weight percent fat diet containing either 0.5 weight percent ethyl esters of 18:3n-3, 20:5n-3 or 22:6n-3 as a source of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid or 0.5 weight percent safflower oil as a source of n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid for 10 days. Olive oil (2 weight percent) was used as a control diet. Although feeding n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid induced very little modifications of the phospholipid sarcoplasmic reticulum fatty acid composition, feeding n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid altered it markedly. Inclusion of 18:3n-3, 20:5n-3 or 22:6n-3 in the diet caused an accumulation of 22:6n-3, which replaced 20:4n-6 and 18:2n-6 in phospholipid sarcoplasmic reticulum. The saturated fatty acids were significantly increased with a concurrent reduction of 18:1n-9. These changes in the fatty acid composition resulted in a decrease in the values of the n-6/n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid ratio and a decrease in the ratio of 20 carbon to 22 carbon fatty acids esterified in the phospholipid sarcoplasmic reticulum. This was associated with a decrease in Ca++ uptake by n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid enriched sarcoplasmic reticulum vesicles as compared with n-6 fatty acid and control diet sarcoplasmic reticulum vesicles. However, neither the affinity for Ca++ nor the maximal velocity of ATP hydrolysis activity of Ca++.MG++ATPase were altered by the different diets.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526917 TI - Naproxen-induced bullous photodermatitis. AB - A case of naproxen-induced bullous photodermatitis ("pseudoporphyria") is presented. A 37-year-old woman with systemic lupus erythematosus developed tense bullae on her hands and lips, and was found to have a clinical and histological condition that was similar to porphyria cutanea tarda without the associated haematological abnormalities. The lesions remitted upon the cessation of naproxen therapy. Although this adverse effect of naproxen has been seen most frequently in patients from Australia and New Zealand, it has not been reported in the Australian medical literature previously. PMID- 2526918 TI - Topical metronidazole for rosacea. PMID- 2526919 TI - [Comparative characteristics of clinical and immunologic indicators of various groups of opisthorchiasis patients in a focus. Aboriginal population]. AB - Clinical and immunological observations of people belonging to two population groups--aborigens (khanty, mansi, komi) and 40 immigrants--were performed in opisthorchiasis foci of the Tyumen region. Rapid clinical reinvasion of unimmune immigrants (in a 3-4 year period) was established; the aborigens featured subclinical invasion pattern. T-system immunity in immigrants was suppressed, while in the aboriginal group insignificant reduction of the number of T-helpers and significant increase in the number of T-suppressors, lack of apparent mobilization of humoral immunity factors--reduction of the absolute B-lymphocytes number, normal A, G immunoglobulines and CIC levels-were observed. Such T--B immune systems' ratio may indicate immune tolerance of a suppressor type. The observed indicators of aborigens' tolerance to helminths' antigens point to the necessity of differentiated approach to chemotherapy prescription (especially of the repeated courses) in the endemic invasion foci. PMID- 2526921 TI - A new method of abdominal exercise. AB - The authors describe a new form of sit-up exercise that should isolate the abdominal muscles and eliminate the hip flexors from participation. Such an exercise should be useful in low back pain rehabilitation programs. Demonstration of the sit-up in an L1 paraplegic man, along with measurements of intra-abdominal pressures generated during exercise are also included. PMID- 2526920 TI - [Haemaphysalis concinna ticks and tularemia natural foci in the Pavlodar region (north east of Kazakhstan)]. AB - Haemophysalis concinna Koch. ticks, found in the Pavlodar region adjacent to the Altay and situated in the North-East of Kazakhstan, play an important role in tularemia infection circulation. 58.5% of 212 strains of the tularemia infection agent, isolated from three pastural ticks species for the last 10 years, belong to the abovementioned species. All H. concinna habitats were enzootic with regard to tularemia. PMID- 2526924 TI - Cell biology. Motility factors on the march. PMID- 2526922 TI - Kinetics and thermodynamic transitions of N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase A and B in free and bound forms: role of cellulose ion-exchangers. AB - The kinetic and thermodynamic properties of N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase A (Hex A) and N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase beta (Hex B) from goat testes were investigated in free and bound (after binding them on ion-exchangers such as DEAE or CM-cellulose respectively) forms. The optimum pH of free Hex A and Hex B was at 4.2 and 5.4, whereas the bound forms showed the optimum pH at 4.0 and 5.2 respectively. While apparent Km of free and bound Hex A (0.8 and 1.0 mM respectively) did not differ, the Km of Hex B increased when bound on CM cellulose (Km of free Hex B = 0.96 mM versus bound Hex B = 1.6 mM). Though the free Hex A was more thermo-labile than the free Hex B, both isozymes, on insoluble matrices decayed at faster rates on heating. Activation analysis revealed that the energy of activation (Eoa) for transition state of free Hex B (81 Kcal deg-1 mole-1) did not differ from Eoa of bound Hex B. On the other hand, Eoa of free Hex A declined from 77.2 to 71.1 Kcal deg-1 mole-1 when heat transitions were carried out in free and bound state respectively. Thermodynamic analysis suggested a change in entropy of activation (delta S) of free Hex A and Hex B as 200 and 211 eu respectively. While delta S of Hex B did not change after heat transitions, delta S of Hex A was 182.5 eu. PMID- 2526923 TI - A prolactin-inducible gene product which is a member of the calpactin/lipocortin family. AB - The major PRL-inducible gene product from pigeon cropsac was cloned from lambda gt11 and sequenced by chain termination. The sequence of pGcp35 includes an open reading frame which yields a polypeptide which highly similar to mammalian calpactin II (lipocortin I). Like the other calpactins, the deduced protein (cp35) consists of a 4-fold repeating structure which has a conserved core characteristic of a large group of calcium-dependent membrane-binding proteins. PRL-stimulated cropsac expresses a calcium-dependent membrane-binding protein which is the proper size for endogenous cp35. Detailed comparison of the sequences of cp35 and human calpactin II shows that the only substantial sequence dissimilarity is a domain encoding amino acids between residues 20 and 40 which includes a tyrosine phosphorylation site in the human molecule, along with other residues of possible physiological significance. These results raise the possibility that calpactins are regulated by PRL in other tissues; and, that the sequences of the avian form and the mammalian form may have selectively diverged to yield different regulatory mechanisms. PMID- 2526925 TI - Resident pulmonary lymphocytes expressing the gamma/delta T-cell receptor. AB - The biological role of cells bearing the gamma delta T-cell antigen receptor (TCR) is as yet unclear. Although there are indications that some gamma delta+ cells can mediate cytotoxicity, their antigen-related functions have not yet been defined. In the mouse, gamma delta+ cells constitute 1-3% of T cells in lymphoid organs. Intestinal intraepithelial lymphocytes (IELs) and dendritic epidermal cells (DECs) also appear to carry the gamma delta TCR. The strategic locations of DECs and IELs have led to the suggestion that gamma delta+ cells could constitute a first line of defence in the vicinity of large surfaces of contact with the environment. We report here that an estimated 8-20% of resident pulmonary lymphocytes (RPLs) are CD3+ alpha beta TCR-, and presumably gamma delta TCR+. Furthermore, mice exposed to aerosols containing a Mycobacterium tuberculosis extract have an increased number of activated CD3+ alpha beta-TCR- pulmonary T cells which can be propagated in vitro. PMID- 2526927 TI - [Non-treatment of a newborn infant before the Supreme Court]. PMID- 2526926 TI - High-frequency nanometre-scale vibration in 'quiescent' flagellar axonemes. AB - The movement of cilia and flagella is based on the interaction between dynein arms and microtubules coupled with ATP hydrolysis. Although it is established that dynein arms cause adjacent microtubules to slide, little is known about the elementary process underlying the force production. To look more closely at the mechano-chemical conversion mechanism, we recently developed an optical method for measuring a nanometre-scale displacement with a time-resolution better than 1 ms. We now report the detection of high frequency (approximately 300 Hz) vibration of sub-nanometre amplitude in non-beating flagellar axonemes. This vibration could reflect the movement of individual activated dynein arms. PMID- 2526929 TI - The physician and workers' compensation. A primer. PMID- 2526928 TI - Skin disorders. Not just skin deep. PMID- 2526930 TI - Behavioural profiles of putative 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor agonists and antagonists in developing rats. AB - The effects of a variety of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) receptor agonists and antagonists on behaviour in 5- and 20-day old rat pups have been investigated. Increased locomotion and head-weaving responses were induced in both age groups by 8-OH-DPAT (8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)tetralin; 5-HT1A agonist); 5-MeODMT (5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine; 5-HT1) and RU 24969 (5-methoxy-3(1,2,3,6 tetrahydropyrindin-4-yl)-1H-indole; 5-HT1B/5-5HT1A). The putative 5-HT1A-agonist LY165163 (1-2-(4-aminophenyl)ethyl 4-(3-trifluoromethylphenyl)piperazine) also produced hyperactivity in the developing pups. In contrast, locomotion was not affected by buspirone (5-HT1A); mCPP (1-(3-chlorophenyl)piperazine; 5-HT1B/5 HT1C) and DOI (1-(2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodophenyl)-2-aminopropane; 5-HT2) though buspirone produced a small increase in head-weaving at 5- and 20-days. The full 5 HT syndrome was induced in older animals (but not neonates) by both 8-OH-DPAT and 5-MeODMT. Large doses of buspirone, mCPP and DOI also produced signs of reciprocal forepaw treading and flattened body posture at 20-days. In addition, mCPP induced grooming and stereotyped mouthing, while DOI increased sniffing behaviour in the young rats. Catecholaminergic mechanisms were implicated in the head-weaving and locomotor responses to 8-OH-DPAT and RU 24969, following experiments with a number of monoamine receptor antagonists. Preliminary findings with (-)-pindolol, which was high affinity for 5-HT1-receptors, suggested that this subtype of receptor may play a role in hyperlocomotion induced by RU 24969.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526931 TI - Involvement of brain serotonin in regulation of sexual maturity in male rats. AB - We have studied the effect of a reduction in the serotonin level at different times in the prepubertal period on the neuroendocrine and morphometric characteristics of sexual maturation of male rats. We established that injection of p-chlorophenylalanine, a blocker of serotonin synthesis, into male rats on the 30th and 34th day of life leads to activation of the endocrine function of the testes in 60-day-old animals. Injection of the preparation at later times, 40th and 44th day, produced a marked inhibiting effect on sexual maturation, expressed as inhibition of both the spermatogenic and the endocrine function of the testes of the animals investigated. The data obtained allow an assessment of the dual role of serotonin in the regulation of the rate of sexual maturation of male rats at different prepubertal periods. PMID- 2526932 TI - Cytophotometric study of ATPase activity in brain neurons and gliocytes of paradoxical sleep-deprived rats. AB - Conditions were chosen for optimal demonstration of ATPases in brain slices by a modified method of Wachstein and Meisel, and the reaction was shown to obey the Bouguer-Beer laws, confirming that ATPase activity can be determined quantitatively in single cells by cytophotometry. In rats in a state of relative physiological rest specific activity of both Na+, K+-ATPase and Mg++-ATPase in gliocytes of the hippocampus and dorsal raphe was found to be considerably higher than in neurons. Deprivation of the paradoxical phase of sleep of the rats for 24 h led to a significant increase in Na+, K+-ATPase activity in hippocampal neurons and to a decrease in its activity in gliocytes of the hippocampus and dorsal nucleus raphe. It is suggested that these changes in Na+, K+-ATPase activity may be due to some extent to a change in excitability of neurons and depolarization of the glia when sleep is disturbed. PMID- 2526933 TI - The effect of carbidopa and lithium on the systemic and renal response to acute intravenous saline loading in normal man. AB - To assess a possible role for endogenous renal dopamine in sodium excretion, the dopa decarboxylase inhibitor carbidopa was given during intravenous salt loading. In addition, the effect of lithium on tubular sodium handling was separately determined. Nine males were studied randomly on three occasions, receiving placebo, lithium carbonate (1000 mg, 11 h prior to study) or carbidopa (100 mg x 2). On each day a baseline period was followed by infusion of isotonic saline (20 ml/kg per hour) over 3 h, and 6 h recovery. With placebo, sodium excretion increased markedly to a peak in the hour after infusion (0.15 +/- 0.03 to 0.73 +/ 0.12 mmol/min, P less than 0.01). Urine dopamine excretion increased modestly (1.33 +/- 0.12 to 1.67 +/- 0.13 mmol/min, P less than 0.01). Carbidopa effectively blocked dopamine output during the study. However, the natriuretic response was comparable to values on placebo at all time points. Fractional lithium clearance, a proposed measure of proximal tubular fluid rejection, increased significantly during saline infusion. However, baseline sodium excretion was greater in the presence of lithium, and plasma renin activity (PRA) was significantly elevated. In addition, the peak natriuretic response was smaller and cumulative sodium excretion reduced by 40% (P less than 0.01) compared to placebo. This study provides no evidence for a facilitatory role for dopamine in the natriuretic response to intravenous salt loading. Lithium, at subtherapeutic levels, cannot be presumed to be an inert marker, and clearance data must be interpreted with caution. PMID- 2526934 TI - PTCA in anomalous coronary artery. AB - A significant coronary artery lesion in a congenitally anomalous right coronary artery (RCA) was dilated successfully using percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA). The anomalous coronary artery did not react any differently than an anatomically normal coronary artery. PMID- 2526936 TI - [Psychosocial aspects of the decision to utilize prenatal diagnosis--results of an empirical study]. AB - After undergoing amniocentesis and delivering their child 504 women were asked by questionnaire for their attitude towards and their experience of pregnancy and amniocentesis. The majority of the women reported that they experienced their decision to utilise amniocentesis as largely unproblematic. In most cases they had already come to a decision before genetic counselling resulting from talking things over with their partner and their gynaecologist. The decision was mostly based on risk assessment and less by considerations of potential consequences of the operation. On the other hand, nearly one-quarter of the respondents found it difficult to decide on their line of action. Their decision was taken more often during or after genetic counselling, and their partner disagreed more frequently with amniocentesis. In this group of women there were more respondents who refused an induced abortion if their child was severely handicapped, than in the group without difficulties with their decision. Disadvantages, consequences of the operation, and conflicts stemming from the social environment of the expectant woman were mentioned as additional reasons for difficulties in arriving at a decision. Potential implications for genetic counselling practice are discussed. PMID- 2526935 TI - [Vocational activity and unemployment of females and pregnancy outcome]. AB - Epidemiologic studies relating unfavourable pregnancy outcomes of working women are reviewed. Inconsistent results are found. This is due to differing types of work and above all to the distribution of sociodemographic factors. The study presented comprising all cases of births and deaths in Berlin (West) of the years 1982-1985 (n = 72.206) showed no difference in low birth weight, but an evidently higher infant mortality for women who were not working. This is explained by sociodemographic factors. This leads to consequences for a target group and health oriented attendance for the public health services. PMID- 2526937 TI - [Dental care of youth in schools of the Rhine-Neckar district and the city of Heidelberg]. AB - Experience at the Heidelberg Health Authority has shown that youth dental care without the intervention of a dental officer does not possess the necessary efficiency. The percentage of pupils not in the permanent care of a dental practitioner is increasing yearly. Hence, early preventive care is hampered. During the course of follow-up investigations by a professional dentist motivation is possible which cannot be achieved by collective motivation within the school class. In order to cope with "problem children", who generally belong to the lower social groups, it is desirable to place these under the supervision of dentists of the regional authorities. Thus this social class will also receive the necessary dental care and education. PMID- 2526938 TI - [The tetrachloroethylene burden of residents adjacent to chemical dry cleaning establishments]. AB - The paper describes the concentration of tetrachlorethen (TCE) in the air of flats in Bremen adjacent to drycleaners and the resulting TCE concentration in the food and blood of the residents. The results indicate that--regardless of the cleaning system--a high TCE pollution must be expected with nearly everybody living next to a TCE dry cleaning shop. The currently propagated guiding value of 0.1 mg TCE per m3 of air or 0.1 mg TCE per kg of food can hardly be complied with -even after reorganisation in the drycleaning shop. The problem of guiding and limit values of TCE and possible alternatives to dry cleaning with TCE are discussed. The paper shows that Public Health Offices--in cooperation with other institutions--can make relevant contributions to investigations in the field of environmental health. PMID- 2526939 TI - [Microbial contamination of drinking water by a polyamide feedpipe]. AB - An incident is described with high colony counts in the drinking water from a well. The well was disinfected with sodium hypochlorite for several times, but without permanent success. After that the search for the reason of the high colony counts started. It turned out that the polyamide rising-pipe produced the microbial growth. Besides the colony increase in the water there was a microbial growth upon the surface of the polyamide pipe as well. When a high grade steel pipe was installed instead of the polyamide pipe there was no colony increase in the water any more. PMID- 2526940 TI - [Rubella, measles, mumps--epidemiologic, occupational medicine significance and efficacy of adult vaccination]. AB - A total of 437, 565 and 1.642 sera collected from personnel of Freiburg university hospital were tested for antibodies to measles, mumps and German measles. Susceptibility was found in about 10-30% of all cases. 107 persons were vaccinated. Seroconversions could be demonstrated in 80% (mumps) and 95.5% (German measles) of sera collected upon vaccination. Our results clearly demonstrate that mumps, measles, and German measles cannot be regarded as "childhood diseases" and hospital personnel is at increased infection risk. PMID- 2526941 TI - [Role of the victim in the expert assessment of the offender]. AB - Now that criminal biology is considered obsolete and interactionistic criminology has come into being, even the forensic expert is keen on uncovering a possible contribution to the crime by the victim. It is especially in the case of "relationship crimes" that knowledge of the victimogenic aspects is a valuable help towards understanding the psychology of the offender. Three case examples are presented showing how "latent" victims maneouvre themselves unintentionally (unconsciously?) into the role of the "substitute victim" and thus serve as a projection screen for the offender's desires or disappointments that had orginally been directed at another partner. PMID- 2526942 TI - [Data on age-related changes in the tonometric and tonographic indices of the inhabitants of Samarkand Province]. PMID- 2526943 TI - Physical findings in patients with chronic intractable benign pain of the neck and/or back. AB - Chronic intractable benign pain (CIBP) is defined as non-neoplastic pain of greater than 6 months duration without objective physical findings and known nociceptive peripheral input. To test the CIBP concept, 283 consecutive chronic pain patients were examined independently by a neurosurgeon and physiatrist and only congruent physical findings were coded. Because they did not fit the CIBP definition, patients with the following primary treatment diagnoses were eliminated: degenerative disease of the spine and spinal stenosis; degenerative disease of the hips; radiculopathy; malignancy; deafferentation pain; and miscellaneous. Eliminated, also, were patients with any one finding indicative of a root compression syndrome, leaving 90 low back and 34 neck patients. These patients had abnormal physical findings in 7 categories: tender points/trigger points; decreased ranges of motion in back or neck; non-anatomical sensory loss; rigid musculature; decreased range of hip motion; gait disturbance; and miscellaneous non-neurologic signs. Low back CIBP patients had the following distribution among the 7 categories: 0% had findings of all 7; 1.1% had 6; 13.3% had 5; 24.4% had 4; 25.6% had 3; 26.7% had 2; 8.9% had 1; and 0% had none. Neck CIBP patients, in which only the first 4 categories of physical findings were applicable had the following distribution: 2.9% had 4; 41.2% had 3; 35.3% had 2; 20.6% had 1; and 0% had none. It was concluded that CIBP patients do have abnormal physical findings indicative of musculoskeletal disease: possibly fibrositis and/or specific myofascial syndromes, as sources of peripheral nociception. These findings question the validity of the CIBP concept and point to the need for a careful, all-inclusive physical examination as a basic initial requirement in the classification of chronic pain patients. PMID- 2526944 TI - Mastoid abnormalities in Down syndrome. AB - Hearing loss and otitis media are commonly associated with Down syndrome. Hypoplasia of the mastoids is seen in many affected children and sclerosis of mastoid bones is not uncommon in Down syndrome. Awareness and early recognition of mastoid abnormality may lead to appropriate and timely therapy, thereby preserving the child's hearing or compensating for hearing loss; factors which are important for learning and maximum development. PMID- 2526945 TI - Unstable angina. Approaching treatment with a rational plan. AB - An appreciation of the pathogenesis of unstable angina forms the basis of rational therapy. The physician's task is to quickly reduce inappropriate myocardial oxygen demands, find and treat factors causing these increased demands, increase coronary blood flow, and prevent progressive thrombosis. Once the patient is stabilized, the physician can assess the risk of myocardial infarction. High-risk patients may benefit from percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty or coronary bypass surgery. The question is how to best accommodate accompanying factors (eg, associated health disorders, advanced age), not whether drug therapy, interventional therapy, or coronary bypass surgery is the best method. All three methods are, at different times, necessary for optimal management of unstable angina. PMID- 2526946 TI - Selective inactivation of dopamine D1 and D2 receptors in 6-hydroxydopamine lesioned rats: evidence that the effect of D1 and D2 agonists can be expressed in the absence of the heterologous DA receptor. AB - EEDQ (N-ethoxycarbonyl-2-ethoxy-1,2-dihydroquinoline) markedly decreased the density of dopamine (DA) D1 and D2 receptors in the lesioned and normal striatae of rats lesioned unilaterally with 6-hydroxy-DA. By treatment with either the D1 antagonist SCH 23390 or the D2 antagonist raclopride, together with EEDQ selective inactivation of D2 and D1 receptors, respectively, are obtained. In rats with decreased density of D1 receptors the circling behaviour response to the D1 agonist SK&F 38393 was markedly inhibited 24 hours after EEDQ treatment, whereas the similar response to the D2 agonist pergolide was unchanged. In rats with decreased density of D2 receptors the effects of pergolide and the partial D2 agonist (-)-3-PPP were antagonized, while the effect of SK&F 38393 was unchanged. These results indicate that the effect of D1 and D2 agonists can be expressed in the absence of normal densities of the heterologous DA receptor. In contrast, the responses from homologous DA receptors, mediating the circling behaviour from the denervated side of the brain, are highly sensitive to the inactivating effect of EEDQ. PMID- 2526948 TI - Parallel decrease in the density of dopamine D1 and D2 receptors in corpus striatum of rats from 3 to 25 months of age. AB - The density (Bmax) and apparent dissociation constant (KD) of dopamine D1 and D2 receptors in striatum was estimated in rats of different ages (from 3.5 to 25 months) using 3H-SCH 23390 and 3H-spiperone as ligands. The density of D1 and D2 receptors decreases with age attaining 70 and 69% of the 3.5 months' value, respectively, whereas the KD's remain constant. The decreases in density of D1 and D2 receptors are parallel. Thus, throughout life the ratio between the density of D1 and D2 receptors remains constant. PMID- 2526947 TI - Antipsychotic-like properties of the 5-HT1A agonist 8-OH-DPAT in the rat. PMID- 2526949 TI - The involvement of dopamine D1 and D2 receptors in the locomotor stimulation produced by (+)-amphetamine in naive and dopamine-depleted mice. AB - The interaction between (+)-amphetamine and dopamine (DA) D1 and D2 receptors was investigated. In naive mice, i.e., mice with intact stores of DA, both the selective D1 antagonist SCH23390 and the selective D2 antagonist spiperone blocked the locomoter stimulation produced by (+)-amphetamine. The selective D1 agonist SKF38393 (6 mg/kg intraperitoneally) did not produce a consistent dose dependent effect on the response to (+)-amphetamine in naive mice. In mice depleted of DA with reserpine 24 hr before a challenge with (+)-amphetamine, neither SCH23390 nor spiperone were completely effective in blocking (+) amphetamine. A combination of spiperone plus SCH23390 was, however, more effective than either drug alone, although significant activity remained even after the combination. In mice pretreated with reserpine and various doses of alpha methyl-p-tyrosine (alpha MPT, intraperitoneally), the degree of stimulation produced by (+)-amphetamine was dependent on the amount and frequency of alpha MPT dosage - the higher and more frequent the dose, the more effective the blockade. In these animals, both SKF38393 and the selective D2 agonist quinpirole potentiated the stimulation induced by (+)-amphetamine when the dose of alpha MPT was not maximal. However, in those animals pretreated with reserpine plus two doses each of 400 mg/kg alpha MPT, neither SKF38393 nor quinpirole were effective in potentiating (+)-amphetamine. Nevertheless, when SKF38393 and quinpirole were administered simultaneously to these mice, marked locomotor stimulation occurred implying that the pretreatment itself had not rendered the mice incapable of locomotion.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526950 TI - Characterization of the discriminative stimulus properties induced by 5-HT1 and 5 HT2 agonists in rats. AB - The effect of different serotonin (5-HT) agonists and antagonists on the discriminative stimulus properties (cue) induced by 8-hydroxy-2-(di-n propylamino)-tetralin (8-OHDPAT), 1-(m-trifluoromethylphenyl)piperazine (TFMPP) and d-LSD (d-lysergic acid diethylamide) has been investigated. The 8-OHDPAT cue was mimicked by the 5-HT1A agonists ipsapirone, buspirone, gepirone and partially by 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine and d-LSD. 5-HT1B (TFMPP and RU 24969) and 5 HT2 agonists (DOM, DOI and quipazine) were ineffective and induced disruption of responding. The 8-OHDPAT cue was antagonized by spiroxatrine and partially by (-) alprenolol, whereas selective antagonists of 5-HT2 (ketanserin and ritanserin), 5 HT3 (ICS 205-930), alpha 1-adrenergic (prazosin) and beta-adrenergic receptors (ICI 118.551) were ineffective. The TFMPP cue was mimicked by RU 24969 and partially by quipazine. Other compounds were ineffective. Only (-)-alprenolol antagonized the effect of TFMPP. The d-LSD cue was mimicked by DOM, DOI, quipazine, 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine and partially by ipsapirone, TFMPP and RU 24969. The 3 latter compounds and 5-HT1A agonists induced disruption of responding. The d-LSD cue was antagonized by ketanserin and ritanserin, but not by the other antagonists mentioned above. The specific inhibitor of 5-HT uptake citalopram was not able to substitute for any of the 3 agonists. It is concluded that the drug discrimination technique can be used to identify selective agonists and antagonists of 5-HT receptor subtypes. Compounds with mixed effects on 5-HT receptor subtypes can also be identified. These show additional effects on reaction time and often disrupt responding at higher dosages. PMID- 2526951 TI - Protective effect of nicorandil on postischemic function and tissue adenine nucleotides following a brief period of low-flow global ischemia in the isolated perfused rat heart. AB - A new antianginal agent, nicorandil, was tested in an isolated perfused rat heart model. Hearts were subjected to 30 min of low-flow, global ischemia followed by 30 min of reperfusion in the presence or absence of nicorandil. Nicorandil (1,500 micrograms/l) significantly improved isovolumic left ventricular minute-work during reperfusion compared to untreated hearts. Nicorandil also prevented the rebound in cardiac phosphocreatine levels and the loss of total adenine nucleotides as a result of ischemia and reperfusion. The salient effect of nicorandil was independent of any alterations in the release of endogenous prostacyclin. These results suggest that nicorandil may possess a unique cytoprotective effect on the ischemic-reperfused myocardium. PMID- 2526952 TI - Severe proteinuria without impairment of sodium and volume excretion after puromycin aminonucleoside administration in rats. AB - The effects of a single intravenous injection of 100 mg/kg puromycin aminonucleoside (PAN) on renal protein, electrolyte, and fluid excretion as well as inulin and lithium clearances in rats were investigated under basal conditions, after iso-oncotic blood volume expansion with bovine serum albumin (BSA) and during infusion of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP). All treated rats developed severe proteinuria 7-28 days after injection. On day 17, the protein excretion of the PAN group was 1,050 +/- (SE) 118 micrograms/(min x kg body weight) compared with 42.3 +/- 3.9 micrograms/(min x kg body weight) in the control group. Hypoproteinemia, edema or ascites were not observed. The renal protein excretion increased dramatically after BSA infusion and even more during ANP infusion in the PAN group. The PAN-treated animals lost about 62% of the infused BSA during the time of the experiment. No significant changes in protein excretion were observed in the controls. Both groups had similar basal excretions of urine volume, sodium, chloride, and potassium and responded to the BSA and PAN infusions with comparable increases in these parameters. The glomerular filtration rate was slightly, but not significantly higher in the PAN group during the control periods. Increases after BSA and ANP occurred in both groups, reaching significance only in the control group. Proximal tubular function was slightly impaired in PAN-treated rats as judged from a lower increase of the fractional excretion of lithium after BSA. Mean arterial blood pressure was higher in the PAN group (136.2 +/- 2.4 vs. 127.0 +/- 2.2 mm Hg) and fell in both groups to a comparable degree after BSA infusion. A further fall in blood pressure occurred after ANP infusion. Plasma ANP immunoreactivity was not different between the groups and increased after BSA infusion. Our data demonstrate that severe glomerular lesion as indicated by proteinuria can be observed after PAN administration without impairment of distal tubular function as judged from sodium and fluid excretion, and therefore support the view that the sodium retention observed in nephrotic syndrome is due to a separate intrarenal defect rather than a consequence of protein loss. PMID- 2526953 TI - Relationship between preexposure to prey and PCPA-induced filicidal activity in Sprague-Dawley rats. AB - Experiments, involving para-chloro-D,L-phenylalanine-induced pup-killing (filicide), were conducted to determine the effect of preexposure to the goal entity on the initial development and long-term expression of PCPA-induced filicide. Three groups of Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 50) were either preexposed/not preexposed, or preexposed for varying periods (5, 8, or 13 days) prior to receiving PCPA. Two major results were obtained: 1) preexposed animals were less filicidal than those not preexposed; and 2) there was an inverse relationship between the number of preexposures and filicide occurrence. The results are interpreted in reference to a serotonin-depletion habituation hypothesis. PMID- 2526954 TI - Physiological responses to acute stress in alloxan and streptozotocin diabetic rats. AB - Physiological responses to acute stress were assessed in alloxan diabetic, streptozotocin diabetic and control laboratory rats. Rats were prepared with indwelling tail artery catheters to allow for direct measurement of mean arterial pressure (MAP, mmHg) and heart rate (HR, beats per minute) and remote sampling of blood. Within 24 hours after surgery, basal values of MAP and HR were determined. Two days after surgery, rats were subjected to 5 minutes of intermittent footshock. Blood samples were collected before footshock stress and immediately and 15 minutes after termination of footshock. Plasma levels of norepinephrine (NE) and epinephrine (EPI) increased significantly above basal values in all animals exposed to acute footshock stress. However, in approximately one-half of alloxan and streptozotocin diabetic rats, plasma levels of EPI under basal conditions and following footshock stress were elevated significantly compared to controls and the remaining diabetic animals. We have denoted these subgroups of diabetic animals as reactive responders (plasma EPI greater than controls) and nonreactive responders (plasma EPI similar to controls), respectively. Plasma levels of NE under basal conditions and following footshock stress were similar in reactive responders and nonreactive responders compared to matched controls. Baseline blood glucose levels were elevated in alloxan and streptozotocin diabetic rats compared to controls. Blood glucose levels increased reliably in all animals following footshock stress. Basal MAPs were reduced significantly in both subgroups of alloxan and streptozotocin diabetic rats compared to matched controls. In contrast, resting HRs were similar between diabetic rats and their corresponding controls.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2526955 TI - Conditioned taste preference produced by pairing a taste with a low dose of morphine or sufentanil. AB - Taste conditioning produced by pairing a taste with low doses of morphine or sufentanil was studied in rats in five experiments. Conditioned taste preferences were obtained with a trace conditioning procedure in which ingestion of a flavored solution was followed by an injection of sufentanil, either 0.25 mcg/kg in experiment 1 or 0.50 mcg/kg in experiment 2. Morphine produced less consistent results than sufentanil. When a similar trace conditioning procedure was used with morphine, a dose of 0.25 mg/kg produced no observable taste conditioning in experiment 3 while 0.42 mg/kg was marginally effective in producing a conditioned taste aversion in experiment 4. In experiment 5, however, conditioning of a taste preference was produced by 0.42 mg/kg morphine with a simultaneous conditioning procedure in which the morphine injection preceded ingestion of the flavored solution. The simultaneous procedure was presumed to facilitate the conditioning of taste preference by minimizing the conditioning of taste aversion. PMID- 2526958 TI - A special challenge. PMID- 2526956 TI - Nialamide-induced hypermotility in mice treated with inhibitors of monoamine uptake, 5-HT antagonists and lithium. AB - When administered orally to mice 1 h before nialamide 100 mg/kg SC two non selective and nine selective 5-HT uptake inhibitors enhanced the hypermotility produced by nialamide, whereas two inhibitors of NA uptake showed no influence on the nialamide response. Paroxetine was the most potent nialamide potentiator; 100% increase in motility response was obtained at 0.012 mg/kg. Pretreatment with the 5-HT2 antagonist ritanserin 1 and 10 mg/kg SC reduced the hypermotility produced by nialamide 200 mg/kg SC, but the 5-HT1 antagonist L-propranolol 10 mg/kg administered similarly was found inactive. Nialamide 100 mg/kg was given SC to groups of mice being treated for 4 weeks with paroxetine and lithium given through the diet. At daily intakes of paroxetine and lithium resulting in therapeutic plasma or serum levels a distinctive nialamide potentiation was found. PMID- 2526957 TI - Serotonin function in panic disorder: effect of 1-5-hydroxytryptophan in patients and controls. AB - The responsivity of the serotonergic system to 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) administration was investigated in seven patients with panic disorder and seven healthy controls. Using cortisol and beta-endorphin as hormonal probes, no evidence was obtained for a dysfunction of the serotonin system in patients. Behaviorally, controls responded differently from patients, in that controls seemed to be more sensitive to 5-HTP. None of the subjects reported an increase in anxiety. PMID- 2526960 TI - 26th forum in immunology. Regulation of antibody production by suppressor T cells. PMID- 2526959 TI - [Comparative study of procaterol and salbutamol in single inhaled doses]. AB - The bronchodilator effect of 0.02 mg of procaterol compared to 0.2 mg of salbutamol as a reference drug administered by single dose inhalation, has been tested in 15 asthmatic patients with a stable clinical situation, using a double blind study. The clinical value of the administered dose was determined by FEV1, FEV 25-75%, PEF, MEF 50% FVC, SRaw, VC and FRC. These functional tests together with the evaluation of secondary and cardiovascular effects were performed every hour during a 12 hour period. The results revealed that the procaterol aerosol was more potent (although not statistically significant) than the salbutamol, and had a longer activity time. There were no differences in the secondary effects which were mild and transitory. These results suggest that procaterol is a potent bronchodilator, with a long-lasting activity and minimal cardiovascular and adverse side effects. PMID- 2526961 TI - T suppressor lymphocytes and aspects of immunological tolerance. PMID- 2526962 TI - Are Ts cells involved in isotype-specific regulation? PMID- 2526963 TI - Intra-arterial hepatic chemotherapy for metastatic liver from colo-rectal carcinoma origin. AB - Loco-regional intra-arterial chemotherapy of hepatic metastases from colo-rectal cancer is one of the most effective non-surgical treatments in this clinical situation. In our experience of 58 cases treated during 3 years, in a non randomized study by either: 1) discontinuous perfusion of 5FU (using a subcutaneous access) or 2) by continuous infusion of FUDR (using an implantable pump), we observed an objective response rate of 52% and 53% with a 1 year survival of 73% and 90%, respectively. This technique, however, is limited in its application by loco-regional complications and in its long term efficacy by the development of extrahepatic metastases. The proof of its efficacy in terms of survival prolongation, is being studied within the framework of a prospective randomized trial with a control group. PMID- 2526964 TI - [Immunologic tolerance]. AB - The thymus plays a major role in T-cell maturation. Non-mature, bone-marrow derived T-lymphocytes differentiate in the thymus into functional helper and cytotoxic T-cells, which have undergone two types of selection events before they leave the thymus: The negative selection, that is the elimination of self reactive T-cells, and the positive selection, which supports the survival of T cells capable of recognizing foreign antigen together with self-major histocompatibility antigens. Induction of T-cell tolerance towards the self antigen Mlsa as a model is mediated by the selective deletion of Mlsa-reactive T cells in the cortical region of the thymus. This was demonstrated by histological and flow cytofluorometrical analysis with a T-cell receptor variable-region specific monoclonal antibody. PMID- 2526965 TI - T lymphocytes in human gut epithelium preferentially express the alpha/beta antigen receptor and are often CD45/UCHL1-positive. AB - A revived interest in intraepithelial lymphocytes (IEL) has been elicited by several recent reports suggesting that murine and avian intestinal epithelium contains mainly CD3+CD8+ cells expressing the gamma/delta T-cell receptor (TcR) for antigen; this contrasts with systemically distributed T cells which preferentially employ the TcR alpha/beta. An anatomical dichotomy in the distribution of these two T-cell lineages has hence been proposed. Here we report that this concept does not hold true in man. In situ studies with monoclonal TcR framework antibodies showed that most (70-90%) human intestinal IEL (which are mainly CD3+CD8+) expressed TcR alpha/beta. Moreover, almost half of the intraepithelial CD3+ cells were positive for the smallest (180 kDa) CD45 molecule (UCHL1); this probably reflected that they are antigen-primed and thus represent traditional CD3+CD8+ alpha/beta+ memory T cells. PMID- 2526967 TI - Correction: RuGli cell line not of human origin. PMID- 2526966 TI - Naloxone-reversible monocyte dysfunction in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome. AB - We studied monocyte function in 35 consecutive patients with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and 25 healthy controls. Eighty-five per cent of the patients showed monocyte dysfunction characterized by marked reduction in the number of monocytes displaying immunoreactive cytoskeletal vimentin filaments, a low phagocytosis index, and a reduced expression of HLA-DR antigens. These values increased dramatically after incubation of the patients' monocytes with the opioid antagonist naloxone. Other immunological abnormalities also noted in the patients were low lymphocyte blastogenesis and diminished numbers of monocytes displaying receptors for Fc of IgG (FcR) and C3b (CR1). These findings suggest that an increased opioid activity acting through a classical receptor mechanism is active on monocytes from a high proportion of patients with CFS and that this represents a novel example of immunomodulation by opioid peptides in human disease. We suggest that endogenous opioids are involved in the pathogenesis of the chronic fatigue syndrome. PMID- 2526968 TI - The law of workers' compensation as it applies to hand injuries. AB - From the author's own experience in over a decade of handling work-related claims involving the hand, fingers, and wrists, they are not only the most frequently seen work-related injuries but as a whole result in more disability, from the occupational standpoint, than those involving any other area of the body. PMID- 2526969 TI - Laser-enhanced angioplasty. AB - We have successfully used a balloon-guided laser to ablate arteriosclerotic plaque, thus permitting use of standard angioplasty to treat seven patients with severe peripheral artery obstruction. The device (Lastac System, marketed by G.V. Medical, Inc, and approved by FDA in December 1988) is designed to reduce the incidence of vessel perforation by using the balloon to center an argon laser between the vessel walls. A control monitor allows the physician to determine the amount and duration of energy applied. A lens on the laser tip further reduces risk of damage by narrowing the laser beam's angle of delivery, and an infusion pump cools tissue receiving laser energy and clears blood from the beam's field. Each of the seven patients treated with the Lastac System continues to be free of claudication; one patient experienced clinically insignificant vessel perforation. Although this series of patients is quite small, we believe increased use of the system will further demonstrate its effectiveness in eliminating plaque and probably will reduce the occurrence of restenosis. PMID- 2526970 TI - [Infantile psychosis, pseudo-Alzheimer syndrome, and trisomy 21. A trial of treatment with folinic acid: preliminary report]. AB - Trisomy 21 produces excess sensibility to methotrexate (dihydrofolate reductase inhibitor). A trial of medication with folinic acid (5-formyl-tetrahydrofolate) was realized on 39 trisomic 21 patients. 30 of them were affected by severe infantile psychosis and the other 9 were affected by a severe Alzheimer-like regression. On 69 assays, 37 were favorable and 32 were null. A dose/effect correlation was highly significant. It is proposed that a systematic investigation of the effects of folinic acid (associated or not with monocarbon precursors) be studied in cases of trisomy 21 complicated by precocious psychosis or severe secondary regression. PMID- 2526972 TI - Persistent immunogenicity of rat thymic epithelium. AB - Culture of thymus tissue in 2-deoxyguanosine (2dGua) is thought to reduce tissue immunogenicity by selectively depleting highly immunogenic, thymic migrants of bone marrow origin. In the mouse 2dGua-treated thymus tissue survival is markedly enhanced compared with untreated tissue when transplanted under the kidney capsule of allogeneic recipients. These experiments were repeated in a rat model. As expected, DA strain neonatal thymus tissue was rejected when transplanted under the kidney capsule of normal allogeneic strain PVG rats. Surprisingly, acute rejection occurred when the tissue was cultured in 4 mM 2dGua, a dose capable of destroying rat thymocytes in vitro and 3 times the effective dose in mice. To test whether residual marrow-derived cells that escaped 2dGua treatment were responsible for inducing rejection, the treated DA tissue was "parked" in T cell-depleted PVG rats. Our working hypothesis was that the few remaining donor derived cells of marrow origin would be overgrown by host-type cells. When 2dGua treated DA thymus tissue was transplanted into T cell-depleted PVG recipients rejection did not occur. However this DA tissue, parked for as long as 200 days in T cell-depleted rats, was acutely rejected when retransplanted into normal PVG recipients. These results suggest that rat thymic epithelium devoid of marrow derived cells in innately immunogenic. PMID- 2526971 TI - The mechanism of the induction of immunologic unresponsiveness to rat cardiac allografts by recipient pretreatment with donor lymphocyte subsets. AB - In continuation of our studies using UV-B-irradiated DST and donor leukocyte (DL) recipient pretreatment to induce specific unresponsiveness to organ allografts, we have examined the relative contributions of splenic lymphocyte populations and T lymphocyte subsets in the induction of immunologic unresponsiveness. Our data show that enriched populations of MHC class II-positive B lymphocytes and the W3/25+ T cell subset obtained from splenic leukocytes using immunoadsorbent columns in conjunction with mAbs led to indefinite graft survival (greater than 100 days) in the Lewis-to-ACI rat cardiac allograft model. In contrast, pretreatment with T lymphocytes or the Ox8+ T subset was relatively ineffective in prolonging cardiac allograft survival. In addition, third-party (W/F) W3/25+ T cell recipient pretreatment did not influence the survival of Lewis cardiac allografts in ACI recipients, thus confirming the specificity of pretreatment with the T cell subset in graft prolongation. Furthermore, we have examined the underlying mechanisms of donor-specific unresponsiveness induced by donor spleen cells, B lymphocytes, and W3/25+ T cells using adoptive transfer assays. Serial adoptive transfer studies demonstrated the presence of 0x8+ suppressor T cells in the spleens of unresponsive recipients bearing well-functioning cardiac allografts and of serum "suppressor factors" that have the capacity for specifically prolonging donor-type test graft survival in naive syngeneic rats. Our findings suggest that the induction of specific unresponsiveness in this model is dependent on a sequential collaboration between the appearance of donor specific serum factor(s) (humoral phase) and donor-specific suppressor T cells (cellular phase). These results may be potentially useful in planning future strategies for the induction of unresponsiveness to clinical organ allografts by immunologic manipulation of the host with MHC class II-positive B cell and CD4+ T cell clones. PMID- 2526973 TI - Acute cellular rejection during effective early prophylactic OKT3 monoclonal antibody treatment after renal transplantation. PMID- 2526974 TI - [Codominant nature of alleles of locus E2 controlling synthesis of human blood serum cholinesterase]. AB - The C5 component of ChE2 (locus E2) of human serum is not an autosomal dominant trait. This component is a part of the group of isozymes C5-10 which can be detected by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in acid medium (pH 4.8). The new electrophoretic data show that polymorphism of ChE2 is determined rather by a pair of autosomal codominant alleles called ChE2A and ChE2B. Serum of subjects with phenotypes ChE2AB (C5+) and ChE2BB (C5-) shows the same level of cholinesterase activity on the average. PMID- 2526975 TI - [Economic aspects of replantation surgery]. AB - Between 1977 and 1986 201 patients were treated by a replantation. 89 (44.3%) had a work accident. In order to find out the change in renumeration payed by the insurance company, 47 were seen at an follow up. They all had had a working accident and were insured by the "Allgemeine Unfallversicherungsanstalt, Landesstelle Salzburg". We compared the lifetime difference of degree of disablement with and without replantation. An average diminuation of rentpayment between 5 to 25% per patient was found after successful replantations. PMID- 2526976 TI - [Characteristics of the conditions for the formation of meteoropathic effects of the atmosphere in the piedmont and midlands belts of Kirghizia]. AB - The underlying conditions of forming and probability of meteoropathologic effects have been analyzed for a 10-year period in low (650-950 m above the sea level) and medium-size mountains (1640 m above the sea level) of Kirghizia. These atmospheric effects were different in origin compared to European part of the Soviet Union. Being evaluated for frequency, meteoropathologic weather effects occur in medium-size mountains 2-3 times less frequently than in low mountains. Basic meteorological factors and partial oxygen density in the atmospheric air are more variable from day to day in the climate of low mountains of Kirghizia. PMID- 2526977 TI - [Combined treatment course at a health resort of patients with chronic erosive gastritis]. AB - Multiple modality treatment of erosive gastritis (100 cases) in Essentuki spa combined oral intake of mineral water (spring N 4) with carbon dioxide baths and pelotherapy. Therapeutic effect was achieved in all the patients: the erosions disappeared in 49% and reduced in 51% of those treated. The conclusion is made on effectiveness of such combined therapy in chronic erosive gastritis. PMID- 2526978 TI - [Dynamic immunologic reactivity in healthy subjects under the influence of solar radiation]. PMID- 2526979 TI - [Age- and sex-related characteristics of the heart and brain in hypertension patients]. AB - Autopsy findings indicate that elderly patients suffering of hypertensive disease showed a smaller increase of the total mass of the myocardium as compared with the young. The increase of the myocardium mass was larger in males than in females. Increase of the total brain mass in patients with the above pathology was approximately similar in the two age groups and both sexes. PMID- 2526980 TI - Cytochemical localization of ATPase in axon-myelin-Schwann cell complex type. AB - ATPase activity was studied in the structures of axon-myelin-Schwann cell complex of sciatic nerves of rabbits of pre-and postnatal development. Positive reaction was observed on the plasma membrane, mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum of Schwann cells, on the intraperiod lines of the compact myelin, in the split myelin lamellae in the paranodal regions and Schmidt-Lanterman clefts, in segment of outermost lamellae split off from the interparanodal myelin, in the mesaxons, in the loose myelin lamellae in the earlier stages of myelinization, on the axolemma (periaxonal space) and axoplasm. The ATPase activity on the Schwannian plasmalemma, axolemma and myelin sheath surface was found to be heterogeneously distributed. An accumulated of reaction deposits at the origin of the outer mesaxon, at the axoglial contacts as well as at the terminal part of the myelin sheath was respectively observed. Alterations of the enzyme activity distribution in axon-myelin-Schwann cell complex during rabbit's development were found to be associated with the growing myelin sheath and its node-paranode. Using controls with ouabain an attempt was made the possibilities of Wachstein and Meisel's method to be shown and the place of alpha+ form of Na+, K+-ATPase in the axon myelin-Schwann cell Complex to be establish. PMID- 2526981 TI - [Completely porcelain bridges: utopia, or is use of such bridges significant?]. PMID- 2526982 TI - [Parallel grooves with facets. Significance of wedge angle. History of development of precision instruments]. PMID- 2526983 TI - [Better vision]. PMID- 2526984 TI - [Investment sectioning model for non-metal ceramic (after Zeiser)]. PMID- 2526985 TI - [Reasonable savings in the use of dental alloys]. PMID- 2526986 TI - [Actinomycosis of the abdominal wall. Report of a case]. AB - We report a primary case of Actinomycosis of the abdominal wall. The diagnosis is obtained on the basis of the CT-scan and the pathological examination. The treatment is a surgical excision and a long term administration of antibiotics. PMID- 2526987 TI - [The present state of chondroprotective therapy in osteoarthrosis]. AB - In the submitted review the authors summarize briefly knowledge on the mechanism of action of chondroprotective substances and the present state of their use in clinical practice. The authors mention also the chondroprotective action of some non-steroid anti-rheumatic drugs. PMID- 2526988 TI - Retentive strength of dental composite to metal surfaces. AB - Retentive strength of the metal-composite interface was studied with tensile tests for 10-mm and 4-mm diameter specimens. In both series nonperforated and perforated metal surfaces with various numbers of holes were used. The specimens were tested after 1 day of storage in air and after thermocycling in water at 7 degrees C and 60 degrees C, respectively. The nonperforated specimens had the highest retentive strength values for both small and large specimens. The retentive strength decreased with increasing number of perforations and for nonperforated specimens with large retentive area. Thermocycling reduced the tensile force required to break the specimens by 4% to 50%. The fracture surface was mostly located close to the metal surface, indicating that this is the zone of stress concentration. With increasing length of the bond edge a reduction of the retentive strength was observed. PMID- 2526989 TI - In vitro evidence for a neurite growth-promoting activity in Trembler mouse serum. AB - Basal lamina components, such as heparan sulfate proteoglycan (HSPG) and laminin play an important role in neuritic outgrowth for CNS and PNS neurons in culture. The mutant mouse 'Trembler' is characterized by hypomyelinization and production of an excess of basal lamina layers around Schwann cells in peripheral nerves. In order to analyse whether or not the serum of the mutant animals contains neurite outgrowth-promoting factors, we cultured rat spinal cord neurons in the presence of Trembler serum. Under these conditions, the outgrowth of neurites was increased approx. 2 times as compared to control serum. Trembler serum induces neuritic outgrowth characterized both by an increase in number of primary neurites emerging from the nerve cell body as well as by an increase in peripheral branching of neurites. To characterize the factors implicated in this increase we added antibodies directed against HSPG or laminin to the mutant serum. As a result, the increase in neuritic outgrowth was reduced or abolished in both cases. Trembler effect on neurite growth disappeared when the number of the non-neuronal cells was reduced, suggesting that the mutant serum did not act directly on neurons but by the intermediary action of non-neuronal cells. PMID- 2526990 TI - Diagnostic approach in instability and irritative state of a "lumbar motion segment" following disc surgery--failed back surgery syndrome. AB - A diagnostic protocol for patients with suspected instability and irritative state of a "lumbar motion segment" following lumbar disc surgery is presented and the results of internal fixation are analyzed. In this group of patients the clinical picture and physical signs may be quite distinct and suggestive of instability and irritation of a "lumbar motion segment", however, in isolation, they do not allow to decide upon surgery. Radiological studies favour a decision for surgery only in cases with an obvious instability of a "motion segment". Anaesthethizing the articular nerves permits localization of the irritable segment and non-surgical therapeutic decisions (thermocoagulation) can only be taken in cases of an isolated facet-syndrome when instability has been ruled out. The trial plaster jacket holds the most important position with respect to the indication for internal fixation as demonstrated by the conformity of the results of the plaster jacket and the results of surgery. After internal stabilization excellent, good, satisfactory and moderate results were obtained in 20, 3, 1 and 1 patients, respectively. PMID- 2526991 TI - Use of technetium-99m isonitrile (RP-30A) in assessing left ventricular perfusion and function at rest and during exercise in coronary artery disease, and comparison with coronary arteriography and exercise thallium-201 SPECT imaging. AB - This study compared the results of stress and rest single-photon emission computed tomography imaging of myocardial perfusion using technetium-99m isonitrile (RP-30A) with the results of stress and redistribution tomographic thallium imaging and the results of coronary arteriography in 39 patients, 11 without and 28 with coronary artery disease (CAD). Each patient underwent 2 exercise studies at identical workload, heart rate and double product. In a subset of 13 patients, concomitant evaluation of left ventricular (LV) function using first-pass radionuclide angiography with a multi-crystal camera also was performed with bolus injections of isonitrile. Isonitrile had similar sensitivity (82 vs 82%, difference not significant), a slightly--but not significantly- higher specificity (100 vs 82%) and similar predictive accuracy (87 vs 82%) to thallium-201. The tracer uptake was assessed in 20 segments/study. There was concordance between the isonitrile and thallium-201 images in 723 of the 780 segments (93%) (kappa = 0.83 +/- 0.02). In general, the isonitrile images were considered of better quality than the thallium-201 images. All 10 patients with CAD who underwent concomitant first-pass radionuclide angiography had either perfusion abnormalities or an abnormal ejection fraction response to exercise. Thus, technetium-99m isonitrile provides a reliable method of assessment of CAD with a sensitivity, specificity and predictive accuracy comparable to that of exercise thallium-201 imaging. Additional advantages include better image quality and the ability to obtain concomitant assessment of LV function with the use of first-pass radionuclide angiography. PMID- 2526992 TI - Identifying patients at high risk for restenosis after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty for unstable angina pectoris. AB - To study the determinants of late restenosis after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) performed in patients with unstable angina pectoris, a prospective study was undertaken in 90 patients. Primary PTCA success was achieved in 84 (93%) patients, dilating 116 of 118 coronary narrowings (1.4/patient), while major complications during PTCA occurred in only 1 patient (1 death). Eighty-two patients (114 dilated arteries) were followed for 25 +/- 11 months: 68 (83%) were in New York Heart Association functional class I or II, 11 (13%) in class III, and there were 3 deaths. Late restenosis was found in 16 (25%) of 65 lesions (29% of 49 patients) studied by angiography 9 +/- 7 months after PTCA. Restenosis was more frequent in left anterior descending coronary artery lesions (p = 0.07) and in those which at the time of PTCA had multiple irregularities (67 vs 14%, odds ratio 12.5, p = 0.002), decreased coronary perfusion (Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction grade less than 3) (50 vs 15%, odds ratio 5.7, p = 0.02) or intraluminal thrombus (67 vs 19%, odds ratio 8.7, difference not significant). Multiple irregularities (p = 0.003) and decreased flow (p = 0.02) remained independent predictors of restenosis (goodness of fit 0.88) after adjustment for 12 pre- and peri-PTCA clinical and angiographic variables by logistic regression analysis. These data underline the feasibility of early revascularization by PTCA in patients with unstable angina pectoris. Careful follow-up should be instituted in patients with multiple irregular lesions, decreased coronary perfusion or intraluminal thrombus at the time of PTCA. In such patients, late restenosis may be the rule rather than the exception. PMID- 2526994 TI - The clinical utility of body surface potential mapping in coronary artery disease. PMID- 2526993 TI - Usefulness of fish oil supplements in preventing clinical evidence of restenosis after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. AB - This study assesses the effect of dietary supplements with high dose omega-3 fatty acid (N3FA) on the frequency of clinical restenosis during the 6 months after successful percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA). One hundred ninety-four patients (214 significant coronary narrowings) were randomized after successful PTCA to receive conventional medical therapy or to an identical regimen supplemented by high dose N3FA (4.5 g/day). Enrollment required angina pectoris and successful dilatation of all significant coronary narrowings. The subjects were randomly assigned to either no N3FA (control, n = 99) or N3FA supplementation (n = 95). After a 1-week trial period, 11 (group 2) declined further treatment because of side effects. The remaining 84 subjects (group 1) continued N3FA throughout the 6-month period. Monthly clinical follow-up was obtained in all patients. Ninety-two percent of patients had cardiac testing for evaluation of recurrent ischemia. Except for a greater percentage of women in the group refusing N3FA supplementation (group 2), the 3 groups were similar in demographic data, medical history, dietary habits, history of previous PTCA and angiographic characteristics. Of the 194 subjects, 56 had clinical restenosis (45 by cardiac catheterization, 8 by exercise testing and 3 by symptoms alone [refused further clinical testing]). Reocclusion rates were: group 1 19%, group 2 46%, and control 35%. Analysis both in accordance with the principle of intention to treat and for subjects who actually received N3FA revealed a significant effect of N3FA on preventing clinical restenosis (p less than 0.04 and p = 0.008, respectively). These data suggest that high dose N3FA supplements reduce the clinical restenosis rate after successful PTCA. PMID- 2526995 TI - Percutaneous transluminal balloon angioplasty for obstruction of the suprahepatic inferior vena cava and cavo-atrial graft stenosis. PMID- 2526996 TI - Rapid T-wave normalization after balloon pulmonary valvuloplasty in children. PMID- 2526997 TI - Computerized segmental plethysmography and laser flowmetry. AB - A new computerized plethysmograph allows segments of the vascular system to be examined accurately and automatically. Laser flowmetry allows blood flow measurements to be made of digital circulation for vascular abnormalities. With the 2 new instruments, large and small vessel circulations can be measured quickly and easily. Disease of these vessels can be readily detected. Thus, appropriate medical or surgical therapy can be investigated. PMID- 2526998 TI - Differences in the solubility and susceptibility to proteolytic degradation of basement-membrane components in adult and embryonic mouse tissues. AB - We have studied susceptibility of basement membranes in a variety of tissues to solubility in guanidine hydrochloride and to proteolytic degradation by trypsin and thermolysin. Unfixed sections from embryonic and adult mouse tissues and the EHS tumor were subjected to solvent buffers or digested with enzymes. The retention or disappearance of the basement-membrane components nidogen, laminin, collagen IV, and heparan sulfate proteoglycan was subsequently assayed by immunofluorescence. Our data showed that in all tissues nidogen was the most readily solubilized component and the most susceptible to proteolytic degradation. With few exceptions, nidogen in embryonic tissues was more susceptible to degradation than that in adult tissues, and this correlated well with the susceptibility of the other basement-membrane components to be degraded. We conclude that basement membranes differ quite markedly in their solubility and their susceptibility to proteolytic degradation and that these properties reflect differences in their molecular structure. PMID- 2526999 TI - Interaction of niacin and zinc metabolism in patients with alcoholic pellagra. AB - The effect of zinc supplementation on the metabolism of tryptophan conversion to niacin was studied in 14 alcoholic patients with pellagra and in 7 male control subjects aged 21-45 y. The pellagrins received chemically defined diets based on crystalline amino acids through an enteral tube for 7 d. Patients were divided into two groups (A and B), both receiving a diet from which tryptophan, Zn, and niacin were excluded. Patients in group B, however, received 220 mg Zn sulfate orally. Upon admission the pellagra patients had low plasma Zn levels and low urinary excretion values of N'methylnicotinamide (N'MN) and N'methyl-2-pyridone-5 carboxamide (2-PYR) in relation to the control subjects (p less than 0.01). During the experimental period there was an increase in plasma Zn levels (p less than 0.005) and in urinary N'MN (p less than 0.05) and 2-PYR (p less than 0.05) excretion in the patients receiving Zn supplementation (group B). These results suggest that Zn interacts with niacin metabolism in alcoholic patients with pellagra through a probable mediation by vitamin B-6. PMID- 2527000 TI - Clinical evaluation of a fluoride-exchanging resin as an orthodontic adhesive. AB - The purpose of this study is to examine the clinical durability and caries inhibition potential of a fluoride-exchanging resin (FER) when used as an orthodontic bracket-bonding adhesive. In the clinical durability investigation, orthodontic brackets were bonded to alternate teeth with the FER in 10 patients scheduled for routine orthodontic procedures. The remaining teeth were bonded with Concise orthodontic resin. Number of bonding failures and the site and mode (adhesive or cohesive) of failure were recorded. Also included in the study were 10 patients scheduled for orthodontic care with prescribed extraction of four first premolars. Bracketed teeth were extracted after 60 days and were sectioned and examined with polarized light microscopy using H2O and quinoline as imbibition media. Failure rates for the FER and Concise were 10.8% and 7.3%, respectively. Occurrence of adhesive rather than cohesive, failure indicates that structural integrity was maintained for both adhesives. Microscopic examination of specimens with H2O showed lesion formation to be 2.78% for the FER and 1.73% for Concise. These lesions were large and not seen in positions near the brackets indicating presence before bonding. With quinoline, dark zone formation was 2.3% for the FER and 33.5% for Concise, indicating a 93% reduction in the first stages of enamel alteration. Results demonstrate that the fluoride-exchanging resin holds promise as a practical caries-preventive adhesive. PMID- 2527001 TI - Plasma concentrations of atrial natriuretic peptide in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis. PMID- 2527002 TI - Thrombin and plasmin generation in patients with liver disease. AB - Patients with liver disease frequently have multiple hemostatic abnormalities. Coagulation and fibrinolytic factors and inhibitors may decrease as the result of impaired synthesis and/or enhanced catabolism. In order to assess the actual degree of activation of coagulation and fibrinolytic systems in liver disease, plasma levels of thrombin-antithrombin III complex (TAT) and plasmin-alpha 2 antiplasmin complex (PAP) were measured together with cross-linked fibrin derivatives (XDP), tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA), and plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI-1) in 31 patients with liver disease (five patients with acute hepatitis, seven with chronic hepatitis, nine with liver cirrhosis, and ten with hepatocellular carcinoma). Mean plasma levels of TAT (mean 4.2 +/- SD 4.0 micrograms/L), PAP (0.7 +/- 0.7 mg/L), and XDP (374 +/- 518 micrograms/L) were significantly elevated in patients with liver disease as compared with normal subjects (TAT of 1.7 +/- 0.3 micrograms/L, PAP of 0.2 +/- 0.1 mg/L, and XDP of 30 +/- 14 micrograms/L; P less than 0.005). Plasma concentrations of t-PA and PAI-1 antigens were also elevated. When plotted by the disease categories, the magnitude of elevations of these parameters was variable among subgroups. Patients with acute hepatitis had considerably higher TAT levels. The mean PAP values were relatively high in chronic hepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma, in which an elevation of the t-PA/PAI-1 ratio was observed. Although clearance of TAT and PAP should be evaluated in the future, these findings suggest that excessive amounts of thrombin and plasmin are actually generated in patients with liver disease. PMID- 2527003 TI - Low protein S in essential thrombocythemia with thrombosis. AB - Patients with essential thrombocythemia (ET) are at increased risk for large vessel and microvascular thrombosis, presumably because of abnormal platelet number and function. To determine if another hemostatic abnormality might contribute to this thrombotic risk, we investigated protein C and protein S and the fibrinolytic system in four patients with ET. The patients segregated into two distinct groups. The first group consisted of two patients with moderate thrombocytosis who were without thrombotic symptoms and who had normal protein S and protein C and normal fibrinolysis. The second group consisted of two patients with mild to moderate thrombocytosis and thrombosis. Both these latter two patients had abnormalities in protein S. The first patient had only 31% free protein S and 67% total protein S, with normal protein C and normal fibrinolysis. Following treatment, vasoocclusive symptoms resolved and platelet count decreased, but protein S remained low (28% free protein S). The second patient in this group had only 35% total protein S at initial study. Other hemostatic abnormalities were also present. Following treatment, symptoms resolved and protein S returned to normal. Based on this limited series, it appears that, in some patients with ET, thrombotic phenomena may be due to the presence of a second hemostatic abnormality in addition to the high platelet count and abnormal platelet function. This abnormality may be acquired as part of the disease process. Some of these abnormalities may be corrected following treatment. PMID- 2527004 TI - Methylation at the Huntington disease-linked D4S95 locus. PMID- 2527005 TI - Acquired functional protein S deficiency, cerebral venous thrombosis, and coumarin skin necrosis in association with antiphospholipid syndrome: report of two cases. PMID- 2527006 TI - Combination of cisplatin plus fluoropyrimidine chemotherapy effective against liver metastases from carcinoma of the anal canal. PMID- 2527007 TI - Captopril-associated acute interstitial nephritis. AB - A 57-year-old male with mild impairment of renal function secondary to diabetic glomerulosclerosis developed acute renal failure (creatinine 32.4 mg/dl) associated with a generalized desquamative skin rash and peripheral eosinophilia shortly after initiation of antihypertensive therapy with captopril. An acute interstitial nephritis was demonstrated on renal biopsy, and improvement was temporally related to initiation of therapy with prednisone. A review of the literature revealed 5 similar cases in whom acute deterioration of renal function occurred following initiation of captopril and in whom there were features of a hypersensitivity reaction, including skin rash, fever, eosinophilia, azotemia, eosinophiluria, and a Coombs-positive hemolytic anemia. Renal biopsy, where available, revealed an acute interstitial nephritis. Observations from these cases suggest that, of the angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, this syndrome appears to be specific for captopril, begins within the 1st month of therapy, is not dose-dependent, and generally resolves on cessation of therapy. Steroids may hasten recovery, but sufficient data are not available to confirm their efficacy. PMID- 2527009 TI - A simple and inexpensive method for preparing erythrocyte membranes by filtration through a hollow-fiber system. AB - An efficient, simple method for preparing biologically active erythrocyte membranes is described. The semi-automated procedure involves circulating hemolysate mixture through a hollow-fiber system, thereby filtering off intracellular components leaving a high yield of washed ghosts. The prepared ghosts exhibit cation-stimulated ATPase activities comparable to those of ghosts prepared by traditional methods. Electron micrographs revealed that the filtration isolation caused less shearing of the membranes than procedures based solely on centrifugation. PMID- 2527010 TI - Bidimensional reversed-phase high-pressure liquid chromatography analysis of cultured cell neuropeptides: application to atrial natriuretic factor. AB - We report here a one-step procedure for extraction and analysis of neuropeptides in chromaffin cell culture media and acid extracts using reversed-phase HPLC. The bidimensional HPLC system consists of a precolumn connected to a six-port switching valve which is on-line with an analytical column. The direct injection of the biological samples onto the precolumn previously equilibrated with 15% acetonitrile allows the elimination of interfering substances. The samples purified on the precolumn can then be eluted onto the analytical column via the switching valve for neuropeptide separation. This trace-enrichment system allows a minimum of sample handling, both saving time and reducing possibilities of loss and contamination. This method has been applied to monitor the precursor and mature forms of atrial natriuretic factor from chromaffin cell secretion media and cell content extracts. The recovery of atrial natriuretic factor is in the range of 80-100%. This procedure could be applied to the study of the precursor product relationship of any neuropeptide, e.g., from radiolabeled extracts of pulse-chase experiments performed on cultured chromaffin cells. PMID- 2527011 TI - An alternative nonradioactive method for labeling DNA using biotin. AB - An alternative nonradioactive labeling method and a highly sensitive technique for detecting specific DNA sequences are described. The labeling method requires the "Klenow" fragment of DNA polymerase I and random hexanucleotides (synthesized or naturally extracted) as a primer for the production of highly sensitive DNA probes. The system has three main steps: (i) labeling of DNA with biotinylated 11 dUTP; (ii) detection of biotinylated DNA by a one-step procedure with streptavidin-alkaline phosphatase complex; (iii) blocking of background with Tween 20. Twenty attograms (2 X 10(-17) g) of pBR322 plasmid DNA was detected by dot-blot hybridization. Upon Southern blot hybridization, 7.4 fg (7.4 X 10(-15) g) of pBR322 HindIII DNA was detected using the biotinylated pBR322 plasmid DNA probe; 40.8 ag and 7.4 fg of lambda HindIII DNA were detected with the biotinylated whole lambda DNA probe by dot and Southern blot hybridization, respectively. Specific bands were also detected with the biotinylated argininosuccinolyase probe upon Northern blotting of mouse poly(A+) RNA. Further applications for in situ hybridization are also described. PMID- 2527008 TI - A novel monoclonal antibody (OPD4) recognizing a helper/inducer T cell subset. Its application to paraffin-embedded tissues. AB - A novel monoclonal antibody (MAb), OPD4, reactive with a helper/inducer (H/I) subset of T cells in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue sections, has been identified through immunization with an activated H/I T cell line, namely DL40. The antibody is an IgG1 antibody and it recognizes an antigen with a molecular weight of 200 kd, corresponding to that of leukocyte common antigen. OPD4+/CD4+ T cells provided better help for pokeweed mitogen-stimulated polyclonal IgG production than OPD4-/CD4+ T cells. OPD4 recognized the H/I T cell subset even in paraffin-embedded tissue sections, but did not recognize nonhematopoietic cells, suppressor/cytotoxic T cells, B cells, monocytes in the peripheral blood, or other normal hematopoietic cells as examined by the flow cytometric and immunoperoxidase methods. Besides the lymphoid cells, OPD4 reacted with a number of histiocytes (epithelioid cells) in tissues from sarcoidosis and tuberculosis. For the neoplastic lesions, OPD4 reacted with approximately half of the cases of T cell lymphomas. Consequently, OPD4 may be useful for the diagnosis and study of malignant lymphomas and other related lesions. PMID- 2527012 TI - Coronary angioplasty following acute perioperative myocardial infarction. PMID- 2527013 TI - Primary closure of omphalocele/gastroschisis in newborns. PMID- 2527014 TI - Genetic and other effects on antibody and cell mediated immune response in swine leucocyte antigen (SLA)-defined miniature pigs. AB - Miniature pigs of eight swine leucocyte antigens (SLA) haplotypes were immunized with sheep erythrocytes (SRBC), hen egg white lysozyme (HEWL) and the synthetic peptide (T, G)-A--L to induce antibody. Bacillus Calmette Geurin (BCG) and dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB) were used to induce cell mediated immune response (CMI). Analysis of variance by least squares was used to assess the effects of SLA haplotype, sire, dam, litter and sex of pig on the magnitude of the primary and secondary antibody response and on dermal delayed type hypersensitivity induced by purified protein derivative of tuberculin (PPD) and DNCB-induced contact hypersensitivity. The statistical model accounted for 43.50-77.30% of the observed variability in antibody and CMI at various times after immunization or challenge. While SLA had a significant effect on both antibody and CMI to some antigens at some, but not all times, sire, dam and litter were more frequently significant and to a greater degree. Haplotypes dd, dg and gg produced more antibody to SRBC and (T, G)-A--L while dg and gg had higher primary, but not secondary antibody response to HEWL. Delayed hypersensitivity to PPD was most marked in pigs of dd, dg and gg haplotypes while contact hypersensitivity to DNCB was expressed least in the dg and gg haplotype pigs. Heritability estimates were high for response to (T, G)-A--L and HEWL indicating feasibility of selective breeding for these traits. PMID- 2527015 TI - [Data of programmed ventricular stimulation in left ventricular hypertrophy of hypertensive origin]. AB - Various studies have established the increase of sudden death in hypertensive patients with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). In order to specify its most important factors, an electrophysiological study consisting of Holter recording (HR) and programmed ventricular stimulation (PVS), was performed in 24 patients with hypertension: 12 with LVH and 12 without LVH, on ultrasonography. In all patients, coronary angiography was normal. The results are the following: 1) LVH increases the ventricular vulnerability, this arrhythmogenic substrate and its stability are explored by PVS; 2) HR and PVS are not correlated, therefore HR does not explore the arrhythmogenic substrate of LVH, but rather the potential triggering factors of severe rhythm disorders; 3) it has not been possible to evaluate the role of the autonomous nervous system in this study; 4) finally, a significant correlation was found between the degree of anatomical hypertrophy of the LV and the duration of the interval AH. PMID- 2527016 TI - Emergency coronary artery bypass grafting for failed angioplasty: risk factors and outcome. AB - It has been suggested that coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) performed in the setting of emergent failure of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty causes minimal increased risk compared with routine CABG. We reviewed the records of 103 patients undergoing emergency CABG for failed percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (group 1) and compared them with an identical number of consecutive CABG patients from 1987 (group 2). Group 1 had a lower risk profile evidenced by lower mean age (p less than 0.01), fewer diseased vessels (p less than 0.0001), better ventricular function (p less than 0.001), fewer left main lesions (p less than 0.0001), and fewer patients with acute ischemia requiring intravenous administration of nitroglycerin (p less than 0.01). Despite these differences, the group 1 patients had a higher mortality rate (11% versus 1%; p less than 0.01) and a higher rate of perioperative infarctions (new Q wave) (22% versus 6%; p less than 0.01). An analysis of risk factors was performed in the group 1 patients using 36 preoperative and operative variables. Multivariate analysis revealed that left ventricular score (p less than 0.0001), preoperative (after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty) need for inotropic support (p less than 0.005), and age (p less than 0.025) were independent predictors of operative mortality. In conclusion, emergency CABG after failed percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty carries a significantly greater risk of operative death and perioperative infarction than elective CABG. PMID- 2527017 TI - Aneurysms after patch graft aortoplasty for coarctation of the aorta: long-term results of surgical management. AB - Twenty-two (32.8%) of 67 patients who had patch graft aortoplasty for aortic coarctation underwent reoperation because of aneurysm formation opposite or at the site of the patch. The mean age at primary repair was 25.3 years (standard deviation, 9.5 years). Reoperation took place 12.3 years (standard deviation, 3.7 years) later. In 19 patients, the aneurysm was resected and the aorta reconstructed with a tubular prosthesis. In 3 patients, the aneurysm was given external support. There were no hospital deaths. Recurrent nerve paralysis (36%) and bleeding necessitating repeat thoracotomy (32%) were the most common complications. Mean follow-up was 4.6 years. No aneurysms developed at the site of reoperation. Two patients died of causes not related to reoperation. Reconstruction with a tubular prosthesis gives good long-term results in patients with aneurysm formation after patch grafting for coarctation. External support offers technical advantages in select patients. Close follow-up of patients who have coarctation repair with a patch graft is essential. PMID- 2527018 TI - Disrupted coronary artery caused by angioplasty: supportive and surgical considerations. AB - Of 2,859 patients having percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty, 201 (7%) underwent emergency coronary artery bypass grafting. Two categories of patients were reviewed. Group 1 consisted of 126 patients of 2,304 who had immediate coronary artery bypass grafting after failed elective percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. Ninety-eight of these patients had angiographic evidence of occlusion of a coronary artery, and 28 had angiographic evidence of coronary artery dissection. Epicardial hemorrhage was observed at operation in 20% (25 patients). Three deaths (2.4%) occurred in group 1, and an average of 3.3 grafts was performed per patient. Group 2 comprised 75 of 555 patients who had unsuccessful attempted percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty during an evolving myocardial infarction and required immediate coronary artery bypass grafting. Angiography revealed coronary artery occlusion in 61 patients with dissection in 14. All group 2 patients had evidence of myocardial injury by electrocardiographic and enzymatic (myocardial-specific isoenzyme of creatine kinase) criteria. Three deaths (4%) occurred in this group, and there was an average of 3.4 grafts per patient. Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty is routinely performed without surgical consultation, although an operating room and team are usually available. Supportive techniques include the intraaortic balloon pump and percutaneous cardiopulmonary bypass. In those patients with coronary artery dissection, care must be taken to reestablish the true lumen of the coronary artery. Hemopericardium should be surgically explored and broken guidewires or other foreign bodies or debris removed. From 1979 through 1986, the number of patients requiring emergency coronary artery bypass grafting after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty steadily declined to less than 5%. PMID- 2527019 TI - Factors mediating a regional difference in vasorelaxing effects of human natriuretic polypeptide in dogs. AB - Factors mediating a regional difference in vasorelaxing effects of atrial natriuretic polypeptide (ANP) were investigated, using the canine pulmonary and renal arteries. Isolated preparation was suspended in an organ bath, and the isometric tension was recorded. ANP relaxed both arteries dose-dependently under precontraction with methoxamine (3 x 10(-5) M). The maximum relaxation was extremely different between the two arteries: 78.5% and 8.6% of maximum relaxations caused by papaverine in the pulmonary and renal arteries, respectively. Removal of the endothelium affected neither the relaxation of pulmonary artery nor that of renal artery. Methylthionine (10(-5) M) greatly diminished the maximum relaxation in the pulmonary artery, but not in the renal artery, indicating that some free radical species may mediate the relaxation of pulmonary arteries to ANP. Methoxamine-induced contractions were inhibited by isosorbide dinitrate (10 and 30 nM) in both pulmonary and renal arteries, in a noncompetitive manner. Nifedipine (10 and 30 nM) inhibited the contractions competitively in the renal artery, but not in the pulmonary artery. Even in the Ca++-free solution, ANP diminished the methoxamine-induced contractions of the pulmonary arterial strips more effectively than those of the renal arterial strips. From these results, we concluded that the regional difference in the ANP induced relaxation between the pulmonary and renal arteries was derived, partly, from a difference in the mechanism of intracellular Ca++ mobilization. PMID- 2527020 TI - [6 months' results of coronary angioplasty after thrombolysis of myocardial infarction]. AB - Transluminal coronary angioplasty (TCA) has become the treatment of choice of residual stenosis after thrombolysis for myocardial infarction, but the long-term results of TCA are imperfectly evaluated. Seventy patients underwent TCA after thrombolysis on account of a significant (greater than 50 p. 100) residual stenosis of the artery responsible for the infarction. TCA was performed less than 6 hours after the onset of symptoms in 15 patients who had neither clinical nor electrocardiographic evidence of reperfusion; 4 of these patients were in a state of cardiogenic shock. In the remaining patients TCA was performed 1 to 10 days (mean 3.2 days) after thrombolysis. A primary success was obtained in 64 patients (91 p. 100). Two patients had emergency aorto-coronary bypass. During their stay in hospital, 5 patients presented with symptoms of reocclusion which in 4 of them occurred less than 24 hours after TAC, and 2 of these 4 patients had to be reoperated upon; 2 patients died suddenly. During a 6 to 18 months' follow up period (mean 10.5 months), the infarction recurred in 3 patients; the recurrence took place during the 3rd month in 2 of them (1 had another thrombolysis and later TAC) and during the 6th month in the third one. At 6 months, 4 patients were suffering from exertion angina and 2 asymptomatic patients had a positive exercise test. Fifty-two control coronary arteriographies were performed at 6 months. Thirteen patients (25 p. 100) had an occluded artery which was clinically silent in 11; 39 patients had a patent artery with restenosis in 7.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527021 TI - [Predictive value of exercise-induced ST depression in the diagnosis of restenosis after coronary angioplasty]. AB - Exercise tests systematically performed during coronary arteriography in patients who had undergone coronary angioplasty show a very large number of ST depressions in the absence of significant coronary lesion. This could be ascribed either to electrocardiographic traces of chronic ischaemia or to a reduced predictive value of exercise tests due to a combination of low prevalence of coronary disease and poor specificity and/or sensitivity. In order to confirm or infirm these hypotheses, the values observed in a study group of 122 patients who had undergone angioplasty for single lesion of the anterior interventricular artery were compared with the values calculated by Bayes' theorem from a 30 p. 100 theoretical restenosis rate and a sensitivity and specificity calculated from a group of control patients who did not have coronary angioplasty but showed the same coronary arteriographic characteristics as the study group. In the study group as in the control group, sensitivity (60 versus 67 p. 100) and specificity (56 versus 54 p. 100) were low. Positive predictive values were also very low (33 versus 38 p. 100), whereas negative values were acceptable (78 p. 100 in both groups). Differences between groups were not significant. The predictive value of ST depression in the diagnosis of post-angioplasty restenosis is too low to be used alone. This low predictive value can be ascribed to the low prevalence of restenosis and to the extremely low specificity observed in the presence of non significant lesions. However, the finding of a negative exercise test in asymptomatic patients enables coronary arteriography to be avoided with a low risk of error (7.7 p. 100). PMID- 2527022 TI - Plasma polymerized tetrafluoroethylene/polyethylene terephthalate vascular prostheses. AB - Tetrafluoroethylene (TFE) was discharged onto woven polyethylene terephthalate (PET) prostheses, and the PET prostheses (50 mm long) with or without TFE were implanted into canine carotid arteries and aortas. Additional controls included polytetrafluoroethylene and Dacron. Specimens were explanted after one to 12 months, photographed, and sectioned for light and scanning and transmission electron microscopy, and thrombus-free surface areas calculated by computerized planimetry. Results showed no significant patency differences among carotid or aortic groups. However, both PET carotid groups had significantly greater thrombus-free surface areas. Histologically, both PET groups appeared identical. An endothelialized neointima covered PET carotid specimens by six months, compared with three months in the aortic position, with greater pannus ingrowth in both PET groups. Plasma polymerized TFE offered no additional advantage in these long-term experiments. PMID- 2527023 TI - Heterotopic ossification within the small-bowel mesentery. AB - Heterotopic bone formation has been previously noted in abdominal laparotomy scars, but the presence of ectopic bone within the peritoneum is extremely rare. Our patient had recurrent formation of heterotopic bone involving the abdominal wall, peritoneum, and small-bowel mesentery. The features of various types of ectopic calcification are discussed, and several theories concerning the pathogenesis and treatment of heterotopic ossification are examined. PMID- 2527024 TI - A prospective study of Alzheimer disease in Down syndrome. AB - Ninety-six individuals with Down syndrome over age 35 years were evaluated and followed up for evidence of nontreatable dementia. Dementia was judged to be present when a functional decline occurred in areas such as orientation, memory, verbal and motor skills, and self-care abilities. Forty-nine patients with Down syndrome fit this criterion, with an average onset of dementia at 54.2 +/- 6.1 years. The prevalence of dementia in the institutionalized Down syndrome population of our study (n = 53) was 8% (2/25 patients) between 35 and 49 years, 55% (11/20 patients) between 50 and 59 years, and 75% (6/8 patients) of those over 60 years old. Of note, 41 (84%) demented individuals with Down syndrome developed seizures. Ten (20%) had parkinsonian features. Adequately treated hypothyroidism was present in 27 (59%) of 46 demented patients with Down syndrome tested. The average duration of dementia in the 23 patients who died was 4.6 +/- 3.2 years. Computed tomographic scans in 43 patients all showed brain tissue loss, most pronounced in the temporal lobes. Brains from 12 autopsied cases showed large numbers of plaques and tangles in the same locations as in persons with Alzheimer disease. PMID- 2527025 TI - The relation between glaucomatous damage and optic nerve head mechanical compliance. AB - Histologic studies seem to imply that the mechanical compliance of the optic nerve head, namely, its displacement under a given pressure, may be altered in glaucoma. We have developed a method to noninvasively measure the optic nerve head displacement. In postmortem human glaucomatous eyes, the optic nerve head compliance decreased as the visual field worsened (n = 15, r = -.34). The mean difference between the optic nerve head displacement of the two eyes in subjects with symmetric clinical findings differed significantly from the mean in subjects with asymmetry. In the latter group, the lower value was always measured in the more affected eye. No significant correlation was found between age and the optic nerve head compliance. Overall, the results indicate that, in glaucoma, there is a stiffening of the mechanical support of the optic nerve head. PMID- 2527027 TI - Plasma concentrations of human atrial natriuretic peptide at vaginal delivery and elective cesarean section. AB - The change in plasma concentration of atrial natriuretic peptide (hANP) at delivery was examined by measuring the concentrations of hANP in plasma samples from 21 subjects after 36 weeks of normal pregnancy, 22 subjects after normal spontaneous delivery and 20 subjects after elective cesarean section. The maternal plasma concentration of hANP after normal delivery (38.0 +/- 8.2 fmol/ml, mean +/- S.E.M.) was significantly higher than that after 36 weeks of normal pregnancy (16.8 +/- 2.3 fmol/ml), but its concentration after cesarean section was not different from that after 36 weeks of pregnancy. After normal delivery, the plasma concentration of hANP in the umbilical artery (66.9 +/- 11.8 fmol/ml) was also significantly higher than that in the umbilical vein (35.1 +/- 7.3 fmol/ml). In contrast, after elective cesarean section, the hANP levels in the umbilical artery and vein were not significantly different. These results suggest that hANP secretion into the maternal and fetal circulation may be stimulated by the dynamic movement of the mother in labour and the stress of the fetus at delivery, respectively. PMID- 2527026 TI - Long-term immunoprophylaxis of hepatitis B surface antigen carrier in infants born to hepatitis B surface antigen positive mothers using plasma derived vaccine. AB - Immunoprophylaxis of HBV infection using 3 doses (10 micrograms) of plasma derived HBV vaccine were given to 49 newborn infants of e-antigen negative HBs Ag carrier mothers at birth, one and 6 months of age. The protective efficacy rate was 100% during first 2 years. At 3 years of age, HBs Ag carrier was 2.63% and 89.48% of infants had anti-HBs above the protective level. Ten point fifty-two percent of total infants had anti-HBs level below 10 mIU/ml and 21.05% had anti HBs level between 10-100 mIU/ml. Most infants who had the maximal level of antibody below 100 mIU/ml had lost all antibody within 3 years. The loss of antibody was closely related to the maximal anti-HBs titer (one year of age) which is highly predictive indicator of the longevity of anti-HBs. PMID- 2527028 TI - Chronic stimulation of mammalian muscle: enzyme and metabolic changes in individual fibres. AB - Earlier investigations involving chronic muscle stimulation have shown that skeletal muscle cells possess a much greater metabolic plasticity than had previously been recognized. We have described more fully the time course for the changes in different enzyme systems in single fibres of rabbit fast-twitch tibialis anterior (TA) muscles after periods of continuous stimulation of up to 10 weeks. After 2-5 wk every fibre shows higher levels of many oxidative enzymes than any control fibre; in some cases these levels are 2-10 times higher (well above any found even in the control soleus, a slow-twitch muscle). Citrate synthase, hexokinase and 3-oxoacid CoA-transferase are representatives of this group of enzymes. Other enzymes, such as malate dehydrogenase and amino acid aminotransferases also increase dramatically, but peak single fibre levels do not reach much above the highest in controls. These differential effects confirm at the single fibre level that chronic stimulation can alter mitochondrial composition. According to their staining reaction for myofibrillar ATPase, TA fibres are approximately 25% type IIA, and 75% type IIB, but by 5 wk these are converted to a mixture of type I, IIA and IIC fibres. At 5 wk, levels of glycolytic and high-energy phosphate transfer enzymes had decreased by 80% or more, and seemed to be adjusted to levels appropriate to their (new) ATPase type. This is in contrast to many enzymes of oxidative metabolism, which increase without synchronization with fibre type change. Determinations of metabolite concentrations in individual fibres from muscles freeze-clamped after varying periods of stimulation gave results which differ strikingly from data for acute stimulation. The findings reinforce our previous view that the high levels of ATP utilization engendered by chronic stimulation of muscle elicit a matching response in ATP production through a series of profound adaptations. Some of these are never encountered under the less extreme conditions of endurance exercise. Such features add to the interest and value of the chronic stimulation model as a means of studying the metabolic plasticity of muscle. PMID- 2527029 TI - Changes of the EMG and its relationship to the cardiopulmonary parameters during two-arm cranking of disabled men. AB - During two-arm cranking in 5 groups of men (able-bodied and leg-disabled with different states of training; wheelchair-dependents with basket-ball training) the behaviour of parameters of the motor and cardiopulmonary system (iEMG, heart rate, oxygen uptake) was investigated. On the basis of stepwise increasing physical work up to exhaustion the group of swimtrained leg-disabled men showed the highest physical working capacity. The lowest physical fitness was found in wheelchair-dependent men. PMID- 2527030 TI - Molecular cloning of a family of plant genes encoding a protein homologous to plasma membrane H+-translocating ATPases. AB - cDNA clones from Nicotiana plumbaginifolia have been isolated by hybridization to a yeast H+-ATPase gene. The largest one encodes a polypeptide (PMA2) of 956 amino acid residues which exhibits a homology of 73% with a limited protein sequence obtained from purified oat plasma membrane H+-ATPase (Schaller and Sussman, Plant Physiol. 86, 512-516, 1988) and an 82% homology with the Arabidopsis thaliana pma gene (Harper et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 86, 1234-1238). It is therefore concluded that the N. plumbaginifolia pma2 gene encodes a plasma membrane H+ ATPase. Southern blot hybridization indicates that the plant pma2 gene belongs to a multigene family. Partial sequences of cDNA clones show that at least three pma genes are expressed in root cells. PMID- 2527031 TI - Presence of dopamine D-2 receptors in human tumoral cell lines. AB - [125I] Iodosulpride binding was examined on eight human cell lines derived from lung, breast and digestive tract carcinomas, neuroblastomas and leukemia. Specific binding was detected in five of these cell lines. In the richest cell line N417, derived from small cell lung carcinoma, [125I] iodosulpride bound with a high affinity (Kd = 1.3 nM) to an apparently homogeneous population of binding site (Bmax = 1,606 sites per cell). These sites displayed a typical D-2 specificity, established with several dopaminergic agonists and antagonists selective of either D-1 or D-2 receptor subtypes. In addition, dopamine, apomorphine and RU 24926 distinguished high- and low-affinity sites, suggesting that the binding sites are associated with a G-protein. The biological significance and the possible diagnostic implication of the presence of D-2 receptors on these cell lines are discussed. PMID- 2527032 TI - Deoxyribonucleoside triphosphate pools in mutagen sensitive mutants of Neurospora crassa. AB - Deoxyribonucleoside triphosphate (dNTP) levels were measured in wild type Neurospora and nine mutagen-sensitive mutants, at nine different genes. Eight of these mutants are sensitive to hydroxyurea and histidine and show chromosomal instability, a phenotype which could result from altered levels of dNTPs. Two patterns were seen. Five of the mutants had altered ratios of dNTPs, with relatively high levels of dATP and dGTP and low levels of dCTP, but changes in the dTTP/dCTP ratio did not correlate with changes in spontaneous mutation levels. During exponential growth all but two of the mutants had small but consistent increases in dNTP pools compared to wild type. DNA content per microgram dry hyphae was altered in several mutants but these changes showed no correlation with the dNTP pool alterations. PMID- 2527033 TI - Production of a monoclonal antibody against C terminus of atrial natriuretic factor by in vitro immunization. AB - Spleen cells, sensitized in vitro with ANF-KLH conjugate, were fused with a non producing mouse myeloma cell line, X63-Ag8.653. One of the isolated hybridomas secreted a monoclonal antibody which exhibited an association constant of 7.25 X 10(-9) M for ANF and recognized an epitope at the C-terminal of the synthetic rat ANF(101-126). Cross reactivity experiments with Auriculin B, Atriopeptin I and Atriopeptin II suggests Phe124-Arg125-Tyr126 in the epitope recognized by this antibody. The epitope appears to be similar to the portion of the hormone molecule essential for ANF binding to the B-receptor (high m.wt. receptor). This antibody may be useful for the generation of anti-idiotypic antibodies for the B receptors. PMID- 2527034 TI - Mechanism of fibrin-specific fibrinolysis by staphylokinase: participation of alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor. AB - When the extent of plasminogen activation by staphylokinase (SAK) or streptokinase (SK) was measured in human plasma, SAK barely induced plasminogen activation, whereas SK activated plasminogen significantly. When the plasma was clotted with thrombin, the plasminogen activation by SAK was markedly enhanced, but that of SK was little enhanced. Similarly, in a purified system composed of plasminogen, fibrinogen and alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor (alpha 2-PI, alpha 2 antiplasmin), such a fibrin clot increased the activity of SAK significantly. However, when alpha 2-PI was removed from the reaction system, enhancement of the SAK reaction was not observed. In addition, SAK as distinct from SK, showed very little interference with the action of alpha 2-PI. Plasminogen activation by SAK is thus essentially inhibited by alpha 2-PI, but this reaction is not inhibited in fibrin clots. These results suggest that SAK forms a complex with plasminogen, which binds to fibrin and induces fibrinolysis. PMID- 2527035 TI - Inositol trisphosphate induces calcium release from Neurospora crassa vacuoles. AB - Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate is known to release calcium ions from intracellular stores thought to be parts of endoplasmic reticulum in animal cells. In Neurospora crassa, however, inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate acts on vacuoles stimulating a calcium efflux with a Km of 5.28 microM. The calcium release is inhibited effectively by dantrolene. These results were obtained by applying two independent methods, measuring calcium binding to fura-2 and loading vacuoles with 45Ca. PMID- 2527037 TI - Incidence, prevalence, and variables associated with low back pain in staff nurses. AB - The morbidity, lost work time, and interference with effective work due to low back pain are markedly underestimated when only employee health service data are used. Injured subjects averaged more years of generic, orthopedic, and rehabilitation nursing experience than the non-injured group. Of the studied nurses who experienced work related low back pain within the past 6 months, 78% did not report it to management. More attention should be given to adequate staff availability for shared lifting activities, better design and use of mechanical lifting aids, and further research in how to safely perform tasks from the side of the bed. PMID- 2527036 TI - Lipoprotein(a) in nonhuman primates. Presence and characteristics of Lp(a) immunoreactive materials using anti-human Lp(a) serum. AB - Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a] immunoreactive materials were examined in serum samples from 77 nonhuman primates of 24 species by Ouchterlony's double diffusion procedure and an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using rabbit antisera to human Lp(a). The precipitates obtained with sera from orang-utan and chimpanzee formed reactions of complete identity with the Lp(a) precipitate with human serum. When sera from Old World monkeys and human subjects were tested in wells next to each other, spurs developed between the 2 precipitates, indicating that Lp(a)-like lipoproteins in Old World monkeys have partial identity with human Lp(a). Lp(a) immunoreactive materials were identified in association with lipids by means of fat staining of the precipitates. On the other hand, reactants which could be precipitated with anti-human Lp(a) sera were not detectable in prosimians and New World monkeys. These results suggest that serum Lp(a)-like lipoprotein is phylogenetically acquired in Old World monkeys. However, the possibility that the structures of serum Lp(a)-like lipoproteins in prosimians and New World monkeys are too different to react with anti-human Lp(a) sera cannot be ruled out. PMID- 2527038 TI - Results of microbiological investigations on the permeability of procedure and surgical gloves. AB - Procedure gloves are considered to be important to prevent infections when handling potentially contaminated items. We tested two sorts of vinyl- and 4 sorts of polyethylene-copolymer-gloves, 20 gloves of each, towards the ability of Proteus mirabilis ATCC 15143 to penetrate the glove material. The gloves were fastened in bottles containing 700 ml sterile nutrient broth and then filled with 300 ml of a bacteria suspension having a density of 10(8) cfu/ml. The samples were taken directly and 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 and 24 h after starting the test. Immediately after the inoculation in 10 to 85% of the gloves a migration of Proteus mirabilis could be detected. After 24 h the rate was 25 to 90%! The penetration of Escherichia coli-lambda-phages (10(6) pfu/ml) was investigated in a similar arrangement. Here 20 to 90% of the gloves were previous in the first 5 to 10 min. Additionally tested latex gloves were impermeable up to 4 h after inoculation. The results of this study lead to the conclusion that it is necessary to improve glove materials. To examine the impermeability for microorganisms the methods used in this investigation are recommended as quality control procedures. PMID- 2527039 TI - Effect of antibiotics on CR1 receptor levels of human neutrophils and on the binding and phagocytosis of opsonized polystyrene microspheres by these leucocytes. AB - Fourteen antibiotics were studied for their effects on the following properties or functions of normal, human neutrophils: (1) the expression of CR1 receptors; (2) the total binding of C3b.IgG-coated polystyrene microspheres in the presence of cytochalasin D to inhibit phagocytosis; (3) the net phagocytosis of the opsonized microspheres; (4) the residual, external binding after phagocytosis. Fluorescence, flow cytometric methods were used to determine binding and phagocytosis of the model target particles. Only nafcillin, a penicillin, caused a decrease (33 per cent) in phagocytic capacity of the neutrophils at a physiologically significant dose (serum level); the antifungal antibiotic, amphotericin B, caused a 30 per cent increase in phagocytic capacity. These small changes in neutrophil phagocytic capacity may not be physiologically significant. There were no significant differences in the four measured parameters caused by other antibiotics tested at physiologically significant doses. PMID- 2527040 TI - [Perinatal mortality in Chile, 1956-1986]. AB - The trend of perinatal mortality in Chile is analyzed for the period from 1956 to 1986, showing changes in late fetal mortality according to age of the mother, parity, and weight of the newborn. Overall perinatal mortality, including both late fetal and early neonatal mortality categories, followed a general downward trend. The decrease was not steady, however, and the rate was not the same for both categories. Between 1956 and 1967 the annual decline in perinatal mortality was 0.6%, while from 1967 to 1975 it was 3.3%, and from 1975 to 1984, it was 6.7%. For the last two years of the study the rate was stable. The decrease observed coincides with the importance that has been given to perinatology as a specialty, and to the establishment of numerous perinatal care centers throughout the country. Nevertheless, new approaches are needed for the prevention of teenage pregnancy and for the reduction of premature births. PMID- 2527041 TI - [Prevalence of disability in 2 different social groups in Salvador, Brazil]. AB - To assess the prevalence of physical and/or mental disability in Salvador, Bahia, 485 favela (shantytown) dwellers and 753 non-favela dwellers, age 7 and older, were studied in October 1985. Some 77.3% of the favela dwellers were either illiterate or had incomplete primary schooling, while 77.2% of the non-favela dwellers had completed high school or college. The total prevalence of disability, adjusted by age, was 8% for favela dwellers and 2.5% for non-favela dwellers. The prevalence of physical disability was 6.2% among favela dwellers and 1.9% among non-favela dwellers; mental disability occurred among 1.8% of favela dwellers and 0.7% of non-favela dwellers. Prevalence of disability in the favela group was higher among men than women (ratio of 4.4); there was no difference between sexes in the group of non-favela dwellers (ratio of 1.1). Locomotor impairment was the most prevalent, followed by mental and sensory disabilities. The authors discussed the need for more detailed studies on disability, including aspects related to availability of and access to medical care and rehabilitation. PMID- 2527042 TI - [Sources of discrepancy in psychiatric diagnosis at hospitals in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil]. AB - The hospitalization records for two consecutive admissions of the same patients were examined at three psychiatric hospitals in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The authors investigated sources of discrepancy between diagnosis, examining such data as sex and age of patients, type of hospital (public, private or academic), type of diagnosis, interval between admissions, average duration of stay, and whether or not the evaluating physicians and the institutions were the same in both admissions. The diagnosis categories "Schizophrenia" and "Alcohol and drugs" showed fewer discrepancies than the other groups of diagnoses as a whole, regardless of the hospital in which the admissions had been (P less than 0.01). In the case of patients with the two admissions at different hospitals, the type of diagnosis and the interval between the last two admissions were found to be associated with diagnosis discrepancy (P less than 0.05). When the last two admissions were to the same institution, discrepancies were associated with the type of hospital and whether or not the attending physician was the same in both events (P less than 0.01). PMID- 2527043 TI - Effect of fructose-induced hypertension on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and atrial natriuretic factor. AB - Studies were performed to examine the effects of a high fructose intake on blood pressure, the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, and atrial natriuretic factor in normal rats. Sprague-Dawley rats were fed with either normal rat chow or a fructose-enriched diet for four or seven weeks. High dietary fructose consumption induced hyperinsulinemia and hypertriglyceridemia, and increased the systolic blood pressure by 19 +/- 4 mm Hg (four weeks of diet) and 24 +/- 1 mm Hg (seven weeks of diet), respectively. There were no significant changes in the plasma renin activity at either time. However, an increase in plasma atrial natriuretic factor was noted in rats treated with a high fructose diet for four weeks, and a decrease in plasma aldosterone was found in those rats fed with fructose for a longer period. There was no significant difference in body weight gain between rats fed with fructose-enriched diet and those fed with control diet. These data indicate that the increase in blood pressure associated with a high fructose intake is not due to a direct effect or the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. PMID- 2527045 TI - Reciprocal changes in atrial natriuretic peptide levels and plasma renin activity during treatment of pulmonary embolism. AB - We followed atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) levels in 12 patients during anticoagulant treatment of pulmonary embolism. In each patient with this disorder ANP decreased during treatment. Concomitantly, plasma renin activity (PRA) markedly rose. The decrease in ANP was significantly related to the rise in PRA. No consistent changes in ANP or in PRA were observed in five patients with peripheral venous thrombosis receiving the same anticoagulant treatment. Plasma aldosterone levels did not change in either group. PMID- 2527044 TI - Antihypertensive effectiveness of amlodipine in combination with hydrochlorothiazide. AB - The antihypertensive and metabolic effects of amlodipine, a new calcium-channel blocker, in combination with hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) were compared with those of HCTZ in combination with placebo. After four weeks open treatment with HCTZ 50 mg/d, 20 patients were blindly allocated to receive placebo and 20 to receive amlodipine, if their diastolic arterial pressure supine and upright was 95 to 115 mm Hg. The patients were seen in the clinic every two weeks for 12 more weeks, where their arterial pressure (AP) and heart rate (HR) were measured supine and upright. Hydrochlorothiazide was kept at 50 mg/d, but amlodipine was increased from 2.5 to 5.0 to 10.0 mg/d as needed. At end of weeks 4 and 16 the AP and HR were measured hourly for 12 hours and 24 hours later. Serial clinical and laboratory evaluations including lipid profiles were done on all patients. Amlodipine treated patients had lower arterial pressures in both the supine and upright positions (P less than .001), higher HDL levels (P less than .05) and lower CHOL:HDL and LDL:HDL ratios (P less than .01), than placebo-treated patients. Also, amlodipine-treated patients had lower SGOT and SGPT levels (P less than .01) than placebo-treated patients. No changes in HR or weight were noted between the two groups of patients. Clinical side effects were few and mild and not different between the two groups. We conclude: (1) the addition of amlodipine to HCTZ enhanced its antihypertensive action; (2) amlodipine was safe and well tolerated; and (3) amlodipine, perhaps, has a favorable effect on lipids. PMID- 2527046 TI - 'The great debate'. PMID- 2527047 TI - Outcome in patients with recurrent restenosis after percutaneous transluminal balloon angioplasty. AB - The records of 1162 consecutive patients undergoing their first percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty at a centre between March 1980 and June 1987 were reviewed. Initial angioplasty was successful in 1011 patients (87%). In 202 (20%) symptomatic restenosis developed. Of these, 196 were treated with redilatation; this was successful in 181 (92%). After a second dilatation, restenosis developed in 47 patients (26%). Of these, 41 (87%) were treated with a third angioplasty, with primary success in 38 (93%). A further restenosis developed in 13 of these 38 patients (34%). Eight patients were treated with a fourth angioplasty with restenosis in four (50%). Two of these four patients underwent a fifth angioplasty (with continuing success at long term follow up in both). Overall, 14 of the 47 (30%) patients who developed restenosis twice were eventually treated with coronary bypass surgery. Most patients (33), however, were treated only with repeated angioplasties. Of these 33 patients, 27 were treated with a third angioplasty, four with a fourth procedure, and two with a fifth. Twenty-nine (88%) were symptom free at a mean follow up of 28 (range 8 to 86) months. The combined success rate for a third, fourth, and fifth angioplasty was 94%. These data suggest that most patients with recurrent restenosis after angioplasty may be managed successfully and safely with repeated redilatations. PMID- 2527049 TI - Zoladex: endocrine and therapeutic effects in post-menopausal breast cancer. AB - The endocrine and therapeutic effects of the LHRH agonist Zoladex have been assessed in 28 post-menopausal women with advanced breast cancer. Fourteen had responded to previous hormone therapy and 14 had no previous hormone therapy. There were two partial responses and two patients with stable disease for more than 6 months in the former group, and one partial response and two with stable disease for more than 6 months in the latter group. Toxicity was minimal. All responses occurred in soft tissue. Six out of seven patients who received tamoxifen after progression of disease on Zoladex showed a response. Peripheral oestradiol levels were measured, and they fell after 1 month from 33 pmol l-1 (+/ 20, s.d.) to 22 pmol l-1 (+/- 11, s.d.) (P less than 0.005). Responders and non responders showed similar changes in oestradiol. Oestrone levels did not change significantly. These results suggest that Zoladex acts indirectly via changes in peripheral hormones, rather than directly on LHRH receptors on the tumour. PMID- 2527048 TI - The renal and haemodynamic effects of a 10 h infusion of glutamyl-L-dopa in normal man. AB - 1. gamma-L-glutamyl-L-dopa (gludopa) and placebo were given by intravenous infusion to 12 healthy salt replete men for 10 h in a single-blind randomised fashion. 2. Gludopa caused a cumulative natriuresis of 46.5 mmol compared with placebo with a biphasic pattern and this was associated with a small reduction in body weight. 3. A small fall in arterial blood pressure and rise in pulse rate was seen with gludopa. 4. Plasma renin activity, atrial natriuretic peptide and urine kallikrein excretion were unchanged by gludopa but a small fall in urine aldosterone excretion, urine flow rate and free water clearance occurred. 5. The renal effects of gludopa are modest and last for only a few hours after the start of infusion. PMID- 2527050 TI - Acne is not associated with abnormal plasma androgens. AB - Plasma dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate, androstenedione, testosterone (T), dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) have been measured in 64 females and 26 males aged less than 25 years and with acne vulgaris. Oestradiol was measured in the males. Free T and free DHT were calculated. Acne was graded on three sites and the sebum excretion rate (SER) was measured in most patients. With the possible exception of free DHT, none of the plasma steroids or SHBG correlated with acne severity or with SER. Free DHT in the females showed a possible, but weak, correlation with total acne (r = 0.25, P = 0.07), but comparison with male data showed that this was not causative. The role of androgens in acne is permissive and plasma androgen measurements usually have no place in its management. PMID- 2527051 TI - Combined treatment of psoriasis with acitretin and UVB phototherapy compared with acitretin alone and UVB alone. AB - The administration of UVB phototherapy and low-dose acitretin (0.34-0.44 mg/kg body weight) was compared with the effect of acitretin alone and UVB phototherapy alone in 41 patients with plaque-type psoriasis. Of these patients, 32 received standard UVB phototherapy without acitretin. The other nine were treated with acitretin and the effect of UVB irradiation (Sylvania UV 21-tubes), applied to one half of the body, was assessed. Clearance was defined as 80-100% improvement and this occurred in eight out of the nine patients (89%) treated with acitretin UVB (ReUVB) and, in two of them (23%), on the untreated side. Clearance occurred in 20 of the 32 (62.5%) patients given UVB alone. The improvement score was significantly higher for the ReUVB side than the acitretin side. Patients treated with ReUVB showed a statistically higher therapeutic score (95-100% clearance) than those receiving UVB alone. However, taking 80-100% improvement as the criterion, no significant difference was found. The number of treatments to clearance was significantly less for the patients treated with ReUVB than for the UVB (19.3 as compared with 24.9). The total UVB dose and the number of minimal erythema doses (MEDs) could be reduced by approximately 20% in the ReUVB group relative to the UVB group. PMID- 2527052 TI - Regression of oral Kaposi's sarcoma in a case of AIDS on zidovudine (AZT). AB - A case with oral Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) is reported that regressed during therapy with Zidovudine (AZT) which was started 5 months after the first dermal and oral tumours were noted. After 6 months of treatment the absolute number of T-helper cells had increased from 54/microliters to 232/microliters and the ratio of T helper to T-suppressor cells from 0.15 to 0.3. During the same time the lesions of KS on the gingiva, uvula and the body as well as the face disappeared. The lesion of KS on the hard palate regressed. PMID- 2527053 TI - Skin disease in haemophiliacs with and without antibodies to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV): further evidence of altered disease behaviour in different risk groups? AB - Forty-one patients routinely attending the Oxford Haemophilia Centre entered a controlled, blind investigation in order to determine whether HIV antibody status was related to the presence of skin disease. Twenty-four of the 41 patients (58.5%) were HIV antibody positive and none had any general symptoms. Comparison of the HIV antibody positive group with the HIV antibody negative group and with non-haemophiliac controls showed an increased prevalence of four HIV-associated dermatoses: 11 patients had seborrhoeic dermatitis (10 HIV antibody positive and one HIV antibody negative (P less than 0.05 chi 2 test], eight patients had folliculitis (six HIV antibody positive), four patients had mucocutaneous candidiasis, all were HIV antibody positive, and three patients had onychomycosis, all were HIV antibody positive. None of these conditions was seen in a group of 16 non-haemophiliac controls. These findings are different from those reported from a similar study of comparable groups of homosexual men and these results may be further evidence to support the belief that the behaviour of HIV infection differs between haemophiliacs and other risk groups. PMID- 2527054 TI - A double-blind comparison of acitretin and etretinate in combination with bath PUVA in the treatment of extensive psoriasis. AB - Thirty-four patients with extensive psoriasis were treated in a double-blind parallel fashion with either acitretin plus bath PUVA (trimethylpsoralen bath + UVA) or etretinate plus bath PUVA. Each group consisted of 17 patients. The dose of retinoid was 40 mg/day during the 2-week monotherapy phase and subsequently 20 mg/day during the combination treatment. Bath PUVA was given three times a week starting with a UVA dose of 0.06 J/cm2. Remission (greater than 90% improvement) was achieved in all patients in 6-10 weeks. There were no significant differences in clinical response between the two groups; the mean +/- SD PASI score (psoriasis area and severity index) before treatment was 22.6 +/- 7.1 in the acitretin-PUVA group and 19.4 +/- 7.8 in the etretinate-PUVA group. The corresponding figures after treatment were 0.6 +/- 0.6 and 1.0 +/- 0.5, respectively. Side-effects related to retinoid treatment were frequent in both groups but they were usually mild and well-tolerated. There was only one case of diffuse alopecia after 8 weeks in the etretinate-PUVA group. Scaling of the palms and soles was seen in six patients in the acitretin-group but only in two patients in the etretinate-group. Triglycerides were elevated in about half of the patients in both groups. The present study shows that acitretin is as effective as etretinate in the combination with bath PUVA. PMID- 2527055 TI - Genetic control of sebum excretion and acne--a twin study. PMID- 2527056 TI - Erythromycin resistant propionibacteria in antibiotic treated acne patients: association with therapeutic failure. AB - Erythromycin resistant (EmR) propionibacteria were isolated from the skin surface of 51% of patients treated with oral erythromycin and 42% of patients treated with topical clindamycin compared with 3% of untreated control subjects (P less than 0.001). Amongst the topical clindamycin-treated patients, there was a higher incidence of EmR propionibacterial carriage in those patients who had previously been treated with oral erythromycin (64%) than in patients with no known previous exposure to erythromycin (20%; 0.01 greater than P greater than 0.001). Patients responding to oral erythromycin treatment carried EmR propionibacteria less frequently (24%) than patients who were not responding or who had relapsed (70%; P less than 0.001). These observations suggest that the use of oral erythromycin and/or topical clindamycin encourages the development of resistant propionibacteria and that the emergence of resistant strains is associated with therapeutic failure in erythromycin-treated patients. In total 63 resistant isolates were obtained from 52 subjects. There were 42 strains of Propionibacterium acnes, 16 strains of Propionibacterium granulosum and five strains of Propionibacterium avidum. The majority of isolates were inducibly or constitutively resistant to macrolide (e.g. erythromycin), lincosamide (e.g. clindamycin) and streptogramin B type antibiotics. Therefore, the isolates are phenotypically indistinguishable from the majority of EmR bacteria in which resistance is due to methylation of 23S ribosomal RNA. PMID- 2527057 TI - Establishment of a human leukaemic cell line (CMK) with megakaryocytic characteristics from a Down's syndrome patient with acute megakaryoblastic leukaemia. AB - A new megakaryoblastic cell line (CMK), which also exhibits erythroid and myeloid markers, was established from a Down's syndrome patient suffering from acute megakaryoblastic leukaemia. The CMK cells were found to be positive in reactions with anti-platelet antibodies (anti-glycoproteins IIb/IIIa and Ib, and Plt-1). Platelet peroxidase (PPO) reactivity was found to be associated with the nuclear envelope and the endoplasmic reticulum but not with the Golgi apparatus. Some cells possessed cytoplasmic granules with the characteristics of alpha-granules and demarcation membranes. Karyotyping revealed near-tetraploidy (modal chromosome number of 95; ranging 87-98) and a translocation der(17)t(11;17), also found in the original leukaemic cells, confirming that the cells were derived from the patient's malignant blasts. The CMK cells were also found to be positive in reaction with anti-glycophorin A antibody, as well as with anti-myeloid antibodies (MY4, MY7 and MY9). Treatment of CMK cells with phorbol ester 12-O tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) greatly enhanced the reactivity with anti platelet antibodies, increased the number of cells in which cytoplasm was dissociated into numerous segments and suppressed the reactivity with anti glycophorin A. The proliferation of CMK cells was stimulated by interleukin-3 (IL 3) and granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulation factor (GM-CSF). This cell line should be a useful tool for analysing the basis of the afferent association between megakaryoblastic leukaemia and Down's syndrome, as well as for further study of megakaryocytic differentiation. PMID- 2527058 TI - A T-cell lymphoma of suppressor phenotype arising in a patient with severe aplastic anaemia. PMID- 2527059 TI - Functional lid surgery in Down's syndrome. AB - Down's syndrome is associated with characteristic eyelid abnormalities. Ten patients presented with lid abnormalities leading to corneal problems. Five patients had ectropion, four of whom required skin grafting to correct the abnormality. One patient had entropion and four had chronic blepharoconjunctivitis leading to trichiasis, which was treated with double freeze thaw cryotherapy. PMID- 2527060 TI - Effects of a dietary excess of leucine and of the addition of leucine and 2-oxo isocaproate on the metabolism of tryptophan and niacin in isolated rat liver cells. AB - 1. Feeding rats on a low-tryptophan, niacin-free, high-leucine diet resulted in impaired synthesis from tryptophan of the nicotinamide nucleotide coenzymes, NAD and NADP, and N1-methyl nicotinamide in isolated hepatocytes, compared with cells from animals fed on a low-tryptophan, niacin-free control diet providing an appropriate amount of leucine. This was accompanied by reduced accumulation of the tryptophan metabolites kynurenine, 3-hydroxykynurenine and xanthurenic acid. 2. With hepatocytes from animals fed on the low-tryptophan, niacin-free control diet, the addition of leucine to the incubation medium resulted in reduced synthesis of niacin from tryptophan, and a small increase in the accumulation of 3-hydroxykynurenine. 3. With hepatocytes from animals fed on the low-tryptophan, niacin-free control diet, the addition of 2-oxoisocaproate to the incubation medium resulted in increased synthesis of NAD(P) and niacin, and increased accumulation of 3-hydroxykynurenine. 4. The results suggest that a dietary excess of leucine alters the activity of the enzymes of tryptophan----niacin metabolism, or the uptake of tryptophan into the liver, in a different manner from the simple inhibition and activation seen in experiments in vitro. 5. Differences between studies in isolated hepatocytes and intact animals suggest that extra-hepatic metabolism of tryptophan, catalysed by indoleamine dioxygenase, is more important than has been believed hitherto. PMID- 2527061 TI - Almitrine, a new kind of energy-transduction inhibitor acting on mitochondrial ATP synthase. AB - At low concentrations, almitrine inhibits yeast cell multiplication by acting on oxidative metabolism. Studies on isolated mitochondria display the following features: (i) almitrine inhibits ATPase activity and decreases ATP/O ratio during oxidative phosphorylation; (ii) no direct effect on respiration can be evidenced; (iii) ATP/O value decreases without any change in the magnitude of delta p; (iv) the higher the ATP synthesis and respiratory fluxes, the larger is the decrease in ATP/O ratio induced by almitrine. These results indicate that almitrine does not act as a classical protonophoric uncoupler nor as previously studied non protonophoric uncouplers (e.g., general anesthetics). Our data show a direct inhibitory effect of almitrine on ATPase-ATP synthase complex. But, in contrast to the classical inhibitors of this complex, almitrine decreases the ATP/O ratio in a flux-dependent manner. Thus, almitrine could induce either an intrinsic uncoupling of H+/-ATPase (i.e., slip in this proton pump) or a change in the mechanistic H+/ATP stoichiometry at the ATPase level. PMID- 2527062 TI - Inhibition of the bovine-heart mitochondrial F1-ATPase by cationic dyes and amphipathic peptides. AB - The bovine heart mitochondrial F1-ATPase is inhibited by a number of amphiphilic cations. The order of effectiveness of non-peptidyl inhibitors examined as assessed by the concentration estimated to produce 50% inhibition (I0.5) of the enzyme at pH 8.0 is: dequalinium (8 microM), rhodamine 6G (10 microM), malachite green (14 microM), rosaniline (15 microM) greater than acridine orange (180 microM) greater than rhodamine 123 (270 microM) greater than rhodamine B (475 microM), coriphosphine (480 microM) greater than safranin O (1140 microM) greater than pyronin Y (1650 microM) greater than Nile blue A (greater than 2000 microM). The ATPase activity was also inhibited by the following cationic, amphiphilic peptides: the bee venom peptide, melittin; a synthetic peptide corresponding to the presence of yeast cytochrome oxidase subunit IV (WT), and amphiphilic, synthetic peptides which have been shown (Roise, D., Franziska, T., Horvath, S.J., Tomich, J.M., Richards, J.H., Allison, D.S. and Schatz, G. (1988) EMBO J. 7, 649-653) to function in mitochondrial import when attached to dihydrofolate reductase (delta 11.12, Syn-A2, and Syn-C). The order of effectiveness of the peptide inhibitors as assessed by I0.5 values is: Syn-A2 (40 nM), Syn-C (54 nM) greater than melittin (5 microM) greater than WT (16 microM) greater than delta 11,12 (29 microM). Rhodamines B and 123, dequalinium, melittin, and Syn-A2 showed noncompetitive inhibition, whereas each of the other inhibitors examined (rhodamine 6G, rosaniline, malachite green, coriphosphine, acridine orange, and Syn-C) showed mixed inhibition. Replots of slopes and intercepts from Lineweaver Burk plots obtained for dequalinium were hyperbolic indicating partial inhibition. With the exception of Syn-C, for which the slope replot was hyperbolic and the intercept replot was parabolic, steady-state kinetic analyses indicated that inhibition by the other inhibitors was complete. The inhibition constants obtained by steady-state kinetic analyses were in agreement with the I0.5 values estimated for each inhibitor examined. Rhodamine 6G, rosaniline, dequalinium, melittin, Syn-A2, and Syn-C were observed to protect F1 against inactivation by the aziridinium of quinacrine mustard in accord with their experimentally determined I0.5 values.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2527063 TI - The partition and distribution of porphyrins in liposomal membranes. A spectroscopic study. AB - Spectroscopic techniques were employed to establish the first comparative evaluation of the partition of the photosensitizers hematoporphyrin derivative (HPD) and photofrin II (PF-II) into phosphatidylcholine (PC) and PC/cholesterol liposomes. The fluorescence of the dyes was monitored while they were titrated with liposomes, yielding the dyes' effective binding constants to the membranes. The binding constants of HPD and PF-II to PC liposomes are 12.2 +/- 0.3 (mg/ml)-1 and 9.2 +/- 0.8 (mg/ml)-1 and to PC/cholesterol (50% w/w) liposomes they are 6.7 +/- 0.9 (mg/ml)-1 and 8.0 +/- 0.8 (mg/ml)-1, respectively. The vertical distribution of the dyes in the bilayer was determined by quenching their fluorescence with spin-labeled stearic acids. PF-II was found to reside deeper in the membrane than HPD. Cholesterol was found to modulate the distribution of the two dyes to a greater extent then DPPC and DMPC. The modulation mechanism is discussed. PMID- 2527064 TI - Correlation of structure and function in the Ca2+-ATPase of sarcoplasmic reticulum: a Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) study on the effects of dimethyl sulfoxide and urea. AB - The effect of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) on the structure of sarcoplasmic reticulum was analyzed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and fluorescence spectroscopy. Exposure of sarcoplasmic reticulum vesicles to 35% DMSO (v/v) at 2 degrees C for several hours in a D2O medium produced no significant change in the phospholipid and protein Amide I regions of the FTIR spectra, but the intensity of the Amide II band decreased, presumably due to proton/deuterium exchange. At 40% to 60% DMSO concentration a shoulder appeared in the FTIR spectra at 1630 cm 1, that is attributed to the formation of new beta or random coil structures; irreversible loss of ATPase activity accompanied this change. At 70% DMSO concentration the intensity of the main Amide I band at 1639 cm-1 decreased and a new band appeared at 1622 cm-1, together with a shoulder at 1682 cm-1. These changes indicate an abrupt shift in the conformational equilibrium of Ca2+-ATPase from alpha to beta structure or to a new structure characterized by weaker hydrogen bonding. Decrease of ionization of aspartate and glutamate carboxyl groups in the presence of DMSO may also contribute to the change in intensity at 1622 cm-1. The changes were partially reversed upon removal of DMSO. Exposure of sarcoplasmic reticulum vesicles to 1.5 kbar pressure for 1 h at 2 degrees C in an EGTA-containing (low Ca2+) medium causes irreversible loss of ATPase activity, with the appearance of new beta structure, and abolition of the Ca2+-induced fluorescence response of FITC covalently bound to the Ca2+-ATPase; DMSO (35%) stabilized the Ca2+-ATPase against pressure-induced changes in structure and enzymatic activity, while urea (0.8 M) had the opposite effect. PMID- 2527065 TI - Cystathionase: high-performance liquid chromatography. Molecular cloning in lambda gt11. Nonradioactive immunodetection of fusion protein. AB - A method of purification of rat liver cystathionase by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) utilizing non-ideal gel filtration method is proposed. Resolution factors-flow rate, pH values, ionic strength of the mobile phase-were optimized. Antibodies to the enzyme were purified using an immunosorbent synthesized on the basis of epoxylated Toyopearl-65. Radioimmunoassay and immunoblotting demonstrated antibody monospecificity towards cystathionase. These monospecific antibodies were utilized for detecting enzyme amounts (up to 30 pg) using the avidin-biotin system. Rat cDNA expression library in phage lambda gt11 was screened. The cystathionase cDNA clone was isolated, and the structure of the insert was determined. PMID- 2527067 TI - Modulation of soluble ovarian adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate-dependent protein kinase activity during prepubertal development in the rat. II. Evaluation of the catalytic subunit inhibitor activity. AB - In a previous report on the ontogeny of the ovarian adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cAMP)-dependent protein kinase activity during prepubertal development of the rat, we concluded that the 4-fold decline in cAMP-dependent protein kinase activity observed in ovaries of 21- to 23-day-old rats was due to the presence of a heat-labile inhibitor in the ovarian extracts (Hunzicker-Dunn et al., 1984). We developed an assay for this ovarian kinase inhibitor activity that was based on the observation that ovarian cytosol added to an exogenous catalytic subunit of cAMP-dependent protein kinase caused a time-dependent and ovarian cytosol protein concentration-dependent inhibition of exogenous catalytic subunit phosphotransferase activity. The present studies were conducted to evaluate the basis for this catalytic subunit inhibitor present in soluble rat ovarian extracts of prepubertal-aged rats. This inhibitor activity was absent from cytosol extracts of rat corpora lutea, rat liver, rabbit follicles, and rabbit corpora lutea. Inhibitor activity present in rat ovarian cytosol was not attributable to insufficient levels of the phosphorylation substrate Kemptide. Inhibitor activity was also not related to the presence of the large amount of catalytic subunit-free regulatory subunit of the cAMP-dependent protein kinase present in ovarian extracts of late juvenile-aged rats. Inhibitor activity, however, did correlate with an endogenous adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) activity that reduced assay ATP concentrations below levels needed to accurately measure phosphotransferase activity, despite the presence of sodium fluoride (an ATPase inhibitor) and ATP concentrations 5- to 15-fold greater than the Km of the kinase for ATP.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527066 TI - [Kinetics of the interaction of ATPase of submitochondrial fragments and a natural protein-inhibitor]. AB - Conditions were selected which enable a quantitative assay of the ATPase inhibitor protein in submitochondrial particles. It was found that the isolated soluble inhibitor exhibits a marked pH-dependent hysteretic behaviour, i. e., an instant jump of pH for the inhibitor solution from 4.8 to 8.2 induced a slow alteration of its activity as measured by the inhibition of ATP hydrolysis by submitochondrial particles. In acid media (pH less than 6.8), the inhibitor is in the active, whereas in alkaline media (pH greater than 6.8) in the inactive state; the apparent pKa value for the cooperative active/inactive transition is 6.8. Treatment of the inhibitor protein with diethylpyrocarbonate, a specific reagent for histidine, completely abolishes its inhibitory activity. Two types of the inhibitor protein--ATPase interaction were revealed, i.e., reversible (ATP independent) and irreversible (ATP-dependent) ones. Both reactions, i.e., ATP hydrolysis and ATP inhibition by the inhibitor in the presence of Mg2+ are characterized by a hyperbolic dependence of the reaction rate on ATP concentration; however, for both reactions the apparent KmATP values (50 and 5 microM, respectively) differ significantly (pH 8.0). Thus, the inhibitor--ATPase interaction shows that there exists a specific site for ATP in the ATPase which is different from the catalytic one. A model for the inhibitor protein interaction with ATPase which takes account of a slow pH-dependent conformational transformation of the inhibitor protein is proposed. PMID- 2527068 TI - Acute hepatitis and exfoliative dermatitis associated with minocycline. PMID- 2527071 TI - The Independent Living Fund. PMID- 2527069 TI - Breathlessness in patients with prostatic carcinoma treated with cyproterone acetate. PMID- 2527072 TI - Interference of therephthalic groups present in Dacron with spectrophotometric azide determination. AB - The determination of azide groups introduced into Dacron cannot be established by the method based on the Fe3+ - N3- complex because the therephthalic groups present in the polymer also react with Fe3+ to form a product with absorbance at 458 nm. PMID- 2527073 TI - Interaction of potassium channel openers and blockers in canine atrial muscle. AB - 1. The possibility that the interaction between potassium channel openers, e.g. cromakalim, pinacidil and nicorandil, and some potassium channel blockers involves a common site was investigated in canine atrial muscle. 2. Cromakalim, pinacidil and nicorandil produced a negative inotropic effect, their pD2 (-log EC50) values being 6.11 +/- 0.07, 5.37 +/- 0.09 and 4.55 +/- 0.07, respectively. 3. The potassium channel blockers, tetraethylammonium (TEA), tetrabutylammonium (TBA), 3,4-diaminopyridine (DAP), CsCl and BaCl2 all produced a positive inotropic effect. 4. The concentration-effect curves for the negative inotropic actions of pinacidil were shifted in a parallel way to the right by low concentrations of TEA, TBA or BaCl2. Maximum responses to pinacidil were depressed by higher concentrations of the blockers. An analysis of the non competitive antagonism by TEA yielded pKA (-log KA) values of 4.00-4.05 for pinacidil. 5. The concentration-effect curves for cromakalim and nicorandil were shifted by TEA similarly to those for pinacidil, and a similar analysis yielded pKA values of 4.47-4.68 for cromakalim and 3.47-3.74 for nicorandil. 6. The KA values of cromakalim, pinacidil and nicorandil were about 10-30 times greater than their EC50 values, indicating that there are non-linear stimulus-effect relationships between the binding of the three potassium channel openers to their binding sites at potassium channels and their negative inotropic effects. 7. The dissociation constants for TEA could also be estimated from pA2 and pKB values for antagonizing competitively and non-competitively the negative inotropic effects of the three potassium channel openers; they were 3.47-3.89, and did not differ between the potassium channel openers. 8. The concentration-effect curves for the three potassium channel openers were not affected by DAP or CsCl. 9. These results suggest the following: (i) quaternary ammonium compounds like TEA and TBA antagonize the negative inotropic effect of cromakalim, pinacidil and nicorandil by binding to potassium channels, thus preventing binding of the channel openers to the same sites or closely related sites in canine right atrial muscles. PMID- 2527075 TI - Technique of laparoscopic appendicectomy. PMID- 2527074 TI - GR32191, a highly potent and specific thromboxane A2 receptor blocking drug on platelets and vascular and airways smooth muscle in vitro. AB - 1. The thromboxane A2 (TP)-receptor blocking activity and specificity of action of GR32191 ([1R-[1 alpha(Z),2 beta,3 beta,5 alpha]]-(+)-7-[5-([1,1'-biphenyl] -4 ylmethoxy)-3-hydroxy-2-(1-piperidinyl)cyclopentyl]-4-heptoni c acid has been evaluated in human platelets and various smooth muscle preparations, both vascular and non-vascular, from a range of species including man. 2. Utilising a platelet counting method to assess aggregation the drug was found to antagonise, in a surmountable manner, human platelet aggregation produced by the TP-receptor agonists, U-46619, EP171 and SQ26655, in whole blood and physiological buffer, with pA2 values of approximately 8.3 and 8.7 in the two media respectively. In the presence of GR32191 the rate of aggregation induced by U-46619 was slowed. 3. The effect of GR32191 upon U-46619-induced platelet shape change and aggregation in platelet-rich plasma was evaluated utilising a turbidometric technique. Both shape change and aggregation were antagonised by GR32191. At relatively high concentrations of the drug a slowing of aggregation and shape change to U-44619 was seen and an unsurmountable antagonism became apparent. 4. The action of GR32191 upon human platelets was specific with platelet aggregation induced by adenosine 5'-diphosphate, platelet activating factor, vasopressin and adrenaline and the inhibitory effects of prostacylin (PGI2), prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) and N ethylcarboxamide-adenosine (NECA) being unaffected by concentrations of the drug as high as 10 microM. Furthermore, at concentrations of up to 100 microM, the drug itself produced no shape change or aggregation, of human platelets. 5. GR32191 also specifically and potently antagonised in a competitive, surmountable manner the contractile actions of U-46619 upon human vascular smooth muscle and antagonised U-46619-induced contractions of vascular and airways smooth muscle preparations from rat, dog, guinea-pig and rabbit with varying potency. This is discussed in terms of possible heterogeneity of TP-receptors. 6. GR32191 therefore represents a highly potent and specific TP-receptor blocking drug. This profile of action, coupled to its long duration of effect in man described elsewhere, make it an ideal drug tool for elucidating the physiological and pathophysiological role of thromboxane A2. PMID- 2527076 TI - Induction of illusory limb movement as a means of studying sensorimotor interactions in the eye-arm system. AB - In the present study, illusory movements were used as a means of investigating certain sensorimotor interactions: it was proposed to describe the effects produced on the oculomotor system when muscular proprioceptive afferents in the arm were artificially activated by tendon vibration. The gaze displacements induced by these vibratory stimuli were analyzed in terms of the instructions to subjects (i.e., 'simple fixation', allowing the possibility of ocular tracking, or 'obligatory fixation', not allowing any eye movements) and the points in space on which the subject's gaze was required to be fixed (on the hand or elsewhere). The results show that, whatever the experimental conditions applied, the oculomotor system always reacted to vibratory stimulation of proprioceptive afferents, even though no corresponding visual stimulus was present. PMID- 2527077 TI - Topography of oxytocin and vasopressin neurons in the forebrain of Equus caballus: further support of proposed evolutionary relationships for proopiomelanocortin, oxytocin and vasopressin neurons. AB - The present study describes the topography of immunoreactive (ir) oxytocin (OXY) and vasopressin (AVP) neurons in the forebrain of Equus caballus and the coexistence of ir proopiomelanocortin (POMC)-derived peptides in the same cells. These data are compared to those for other mammalian species and the possible significance of species variations is considered. As expected, magnocellular neurons of the equine hypothalamus, which contain ir OXY or AVP, have prominent discernible projections to the neurohypophysis. Further, as in other mammalian species, the field of ir OXY perikarya generally extends rostral and dorsal to groups of ir AVP cell bodies, and caudal projections from OXY neurons appear to be more numerous than ir AVP projections to the brainstem and/or spinal cord. Interestingly, however, the brain of E. caballus also contains: (1) perikarya staining for OXY in the arcuate nucleus, (2) ir AVP and OXY cell bodies in the suprachiasmatic nucleus, and (3) neurons in the supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei that stained for beta-endorphin but not for other posttranslational products of POMC or dynorphin. These results give further credence to the proposal that there is an evolutionary relationship between OXY-, AVP- and POMC producing hypothalamic neurons. Whether or not species differences in peptide coexistence reflect functional differences in neuronal populations or species differences in residual genomic expression by these neuroendocrine cells warrants further investigation. PMID- 2527079 TI - [The specific photodynamic effect of monoclonal antibodies conjugated with hematoporphyrin derivative on gastric cancer in vitro and in vivo]. AB - A murine monoclonal antibody (MoAb) BB4.3 raised against human gastric cancer cell line BGC823 was purified with Protein A-Sepharose CL-4B affinity chromatography and identified as IgG2a. The MoAb BB 4.3 was conjugated with hematoporphyrin derivative (HPD) by using carbodiimide. The conjugate HPD-BB4.3 retained both antibody activity and photochemical activity of HPD. In vitro the phototoxic effect of HPD-BB4.3 conjugate on target cells was about 15 times higher than that of free HPD. The target-selective photocytotoxicity of HPD-BB 4.3 was verified by the fact that this conjugate showed greater cytotoxicity than the corresponding normal mouse IgG (NIgG) conjugated with HPD, and that it showed less cytotoxicity to BB4.3 negative reaction cell line B-80 than to BGC 823; and moreover, its cytotoxicity to BGC823 cells could be blocked specifically by excess BB4.3 antibody. In an in vivo study, nude mice inoculated with 2 X 10(5) BGC823 cells were administered HPD-BB4.3, HPD, HPD-NIgG, HPD plus BB4.3 and PBS respectively; and were then exposed to light. Out of six animals treated with HPD BB4.3 conjugate, four remained tumor-free for a long time. There was significant difference between HPD-BB 4.3 treated group and all control groups. The HPD-BB4.3 conjugate was also shown more than 40% inhibition of growth of established tumors in comparison with the control groups. PMID- 2527078 TI - Basal ganglia lesions in the rat: effects on quinolinic acid metabolism. AB - Experimental basal ganglia lesions were produced in order to examine the effect of neuronal loss on quinolinic acid (QUIN) metabolism. The latter was investigated by measuring the activities of QUIN's biosynthetic enzyme, 3 hydroxyanthranilic acid oxygenase (3-HAO) and its degradative enzyme, quinolinic acid phosphoribosyltransferase (QPRT). Striatal ibotenic acid lesions caused a steady increase in striatal QPRT activity, reaching 280% of control levels 21 days after the lesion. In the same tissue, 3-HAO activity, too, was elevated. It rose to 436% of control after 7 days and to a lesser degree (+309%) after 3 weeks. Immunotitration experiments using anti-rat 3-HAO antibodies and kinetic analysis of lesioned and control striata showed that the increase in 3-HAO was due to de novo production of enzyme protein. The large increases in striatal enzyme activities after 7 days were accompanied by smaller increases in both 3 HAO and QPRT activities in the ipsilateral substantia nigra. Physical destruction of corticostriatal glutamatergic fibers resulted in increases in striatal 3-HAO (+216%) and QPRT (+243%) activities after one week. No changes in nigral or striatal QUIN metabolism were recorded 7 days after an intranigral injection of 6 hydroxydopamine. These data confirm the notion of a largely glial localization of the QUIN system in the basal ganglia, and correlate well with recent observations in brain tissue from Huntington's disease victims. PMID- 2527080 TI - A simple and economical equipment arrangement for percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. AB - A simple and economical equipment arrangement for percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) for USCI system is described. The arrangement will provide for immediate deflation when required with a short deflation time. Cardiac catheterization laboratories performing a large number of angioplasties could benefit from its low cost and convenience. PMID- 2527081 TI - Heterogeneity in responses of isolated monkey arteries and veins to atrial natriuretic peptide. AB - Regional differences in responses of isolated monkey arteries and veins to atrial natriuretic peptide were investigated by recording isometric tension. Addition of atrial natriuretic peptide (4 X 10(-12) to 4 X 10(-8) M) produced a concentration dependent relaxation in isolated monkey arteries and veins. No significant difference was observed between the responses to rat and human atrial natriuretic peptides. A marked heterogeneity in responses to rat atrial natriuretic peptide, however, was observed in arterial preparations. The decreasing order of the response was as follows: renal greater than pulmonary greater than femoral = mesenteric greater than coronary greater than middle cerebral greater than basilar arteries. A heterogeneity in the relaxation produced by atrial natriuretic peptide was also observed in monkey veins. The decreasing order of the response was as follows: pulmonary greater than mesenteric = portal greater than femoral greater than renal = inferior caval veins. On the other hand, 10(-5) M sodium nitroprusside caused a maximal relaxation in all monkey arteries and veins used. In the middle cerebral, basilar, and coronary arteries, the relaxant effects of rat atrial natriuretic peptide on KCl-induced contraction were significantly smaller than those on the preparations contracted by an agonist such as prostaglandin F2 alpha. These results suggest that there exist profound regional vasorelaxant selectivities of atrial natriuretic peptide in isolated monkey arteries and veins. PMID- 2527082 TI - Plasma vasopressin and atrial natriuretic factor in response to blood volume changes in the anaesthetized rabbit. AB - The influence of aortic baroreceptors and vagal afferent nerves on the release of immunoreactive vasopressin (iVP) and immunoreactive atrial natriuretic factor (iANF) was examined in anaesthetized rabbits. Changes in plasma concentrations of iVP and iANF, heart rate, mean arterial pressure, and right atrial pressure were measured in response to blood volume changes (+20, +10, -10, -20%). Carotid sinus pressure was maintained at 100 mmHg (1 mmHg = 133.3 Pa), and blood volume changes were performed before and after bilateral vagotomy (VNX) in all experiments. Two experimental groups were studied: rabbits with aortic depressor nerves intact (ADNI) and those with aortic depressor nerves sectioned (ADNX). Mean arterial and right atrial pressures decreased during haemorrhage and increased in response to volume expansion. Plasma iVP concentrations increased with haemorrhage and decreased with volume expansion in the ADNI group. Plasma iANF, however, decreased with haemorrhage and increased during volume expansion in both ADNI and ADNX groups. Vagotomy caused an increase in baseline plasma iANF in the ADNX group. The responses of iANF to blood volume changes were augmented after VNX and ADNX. The results show that neither the aortic baroreceptor nor the vagal afferent input are needed for the iANF response to changes in blood volume, over the range of +/- 20%. In contrast, intact aortic baroreceptors are essential for changes in circulating iVP in this preparation. PMID- 2527083 TI - Effect of rat cardionatrin I (rat ANF 99-126) on the response of toad skin to angiotensin II. AB - The atrial natriuretic peptide cardionatrin I (cardionatrin I is ANF 99-126) was used in studies directed to assess its effects on osmotic water permeability (Posm) and short-circuit current (SCC) in isolated toad skin. Results showed that ANF 99-126 (10(-7) M) added to the dermal side of the skin had no effect on basal Posm or SCC. However, ANF 99-126 (3.3 x 10(-8) M) was able to produce a 50% reversible inhibition of the maximal Posm response to angiotensin II (AII) (3.2 x 10(-8) M). These effects were seen when the skins were preincubated with ANF 99 126 for 10 min or less before the addition of AII. Longer preincubation appeared to inactivate ANF 99-126 through proteolysis. ANF 99-126(10(-7) M) failed to inhibit the SCC response to AII (10(-5) M) in toad skin. These results are compatible with a modulatory function for ANF on several systems including those involved in the regulation of extracellular fluid volume. PMID- 2527084 TI - Pigmentary disorders and systemic drug therapy. PMID- 2527085 TI - Sequential cyclic combined hormonal therapy for metastatic breast cancer. AB - Thirty postmenopausal patients who had evaluable estrogen receptor-positive or unknown metastatic breast cancer were treated with cyclic sequential combined hormonal therapy consisting of 50 micrograms of ethinylestradiol orally daily for 7 days followed by 400 mg of medroxyprogesterone acetate orally daily for 21 days, followed in turn by 7 days of rest. Cyclic administration was continued until progressive disease was detected. Patients who had had one previous chemotherapy regimen were included, but 63% of patients were previously untreated. Six patients achieved complete remission and 11, a partial remission, for an overall response rate of 57%. Median remission duration was 22 months; median time to disease progression for all 30 patients was 8 months. Toxicity consisted of cyclic vaginal bleeding, hot flashes, weight gain, irritability, and fluid retention. This cyclic, sequential hormonal regimen was effective and well tolerated. PMID- 2527086 TI - Establishment and characterization of a new human Burkitt's lymphoma cell line (WSU-BL). AB - A new human cell line, WSU-BL, was established from a malignant ascitic fluid occurring in a patient with Burkitt's lymphoma. The established line grows in a single-cell suspension with a doubling time of 19 hours and expresses L3 morphologic features by the French-American-British classification. Immunologic study revealed that WSU-BL cells express IgM-lambda both in the cytoplasm and on the surface and react with monoclonal antibodies to B-cell antigens (B1, B4, BL3, BL4, HLA-DR, and common acute lymphoblastic leukemia antigen [CALLA]). These cells are negative for T-cell and myeloid/monocyte antigens as well as Epstein Barr virus nuclear antigen (EBNA). These results suggest that WSU-BL corresponds to an intermediate stage of B-cell differentiation. Both fresh tumor and WSU-BL cells had a hyperdiploid karyotype carrying the 8;14 chromosome translocation. Molecular studies showed that WSU-BL has a rearrangement of c-myc proto-oncogene and expresses c-myc RNA. Phorbol ester 12-0-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) and interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) were able to induce several phenotypic changes on WSU-BL cells. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis of total cellular protein showed that either TPA or IFN-gamma induced both the synthesis or loss of several proteins. Analysis of the protein patterns indicated that some proteins were uniquely responsive to either TPA or IFN-gamma and others were common to both. This cell line should be valuable for future studies of cell proliferation, differentiation, and oncogenesis concerning this neoplasm. PMID- 2527087 TI - In vivo antitumor activity of anti-CD3-induced activated killer cells. AB - This study investigates the potential of the alpha CD3-induced killer cells for use in adoptive immunotherapy of tumor growth. The alpha CD3-induced, activated, killer cells (CD3-AK) were generated in DBA/2 (H-2d) splenocytes by preactivation with alpha CD3 and were then cultured in the presence (CD3-AK [alpha CD3+]) or absence (CD3-AK [alpha CD3-]) of alpha CD3. The conventional lymphokine-activated killer (LAK) cells were induced by culturing DBA/2 splenocytes with purified human recombinant interleukin 2. Testing their in vitro cytotoxicity against syngeneic mastocytoma P815, CD3-AK (alpha CD3+) cells gave the highest levels of cytotoxicity and were 20-fold higher than LAK cells and 200-fold higher than CD3 AK (alpha CD3-) cells. However, the cytotoxic activity of LAK or CD3-AK (alpha CD3-) cells was augmented by preincubating them with alpha CD3 for 3 h; then, the difference in cytotoxic activity was reduced from 20- to 4-fold and from 200- to 2-fold, respectively. The in vivo antitumor activity of these killer cells paralleled the in vitro activity. In tests using tumor neutralization experiments, 80-100% of the mice that were challenged with 1 x 10(2) P815 cells remained tumor free after receiving 5 x 10(6) CD3-AK (alpha CD3+) cells. When the challenge dose increased to 1 x 10(3) and to 1 x 10(4) cells, giving CD3-AK (alpha CD3+) cells slowed down the rate of tumor growth but only 20% of the mice remained tumor free. The untreated LAK cells or CD3-AK (alpha CD3-) cells did not induce any protection. After preincubation with alpha CD3 for 3 h, the CD3-AK (alpha CD3-) cells provided protection in 30% of the challenged mice. The phenotype of effectors for mediating the in vitro and in vivo antitumor activities was found to be Thy1+, CD4-, and CD8+ cells. Flow microfluorometry analysis showed that the higher levels of cytotoxic activity obtained with CD3-AK (alpha CD3+) cells could not be simply explained by the increase of CD8+ cells, and the cytotoxic activity of individual CD3-AK (alpha CD3+) cells appeared to be much higher than that of the LAK cells. After tumor growth was established for 1 2 days, giving CD3-AK (alpha CD3+) cells slowed down the rate of tumor growth, and 20% of the mice remained tumor free. These results indicate that CD3-AK cells may be used in the immunotherapy of tumor growth.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2527089 TI - [Study of the relation of the typology of nephrotic syndrome and red cell C3b receptor, T cell function]. AB - This paper reports the determined results of rosette rates of red cell C3b receptor and active rosette (Ea) rates of T lymphocyte in 39 cases of nephrotic syndrome. Typology of nephrotic syndrome according to TCM differentiation symptoms, all the 39 cases were divided into three types: (1) 13 cases of deficiency of Qi of the Spleen with stagnancy of dampness; (2) 9 cases of deficiency of Yang of the Spleen and Kidney; (3) 17 cases of deficiency of Yin of the Liver and Kidney. The results showed that the red cell C3b receptor rosette rate and Ea rosette rate in 39 cases of nephrotic syndrome were significantly lower than those in the control. The difference between the two groups was very obvious (P less than 0.001) among the three types. The rosette rates of both in the deficiency of Qi of the Spleen and deficiency of Yang of the Spleen and Kidney were markedly decreased than those in the control (P less than 0.001). Whereas, the red cell C3b receptor rosette rate was lower than that in the control (P less than 0.01), and T cell Ea rosette rate showed no statistical difference (P greater than 0.05) in the deficiency of Yin of the Liver and Kidney. There was a close relationship between the immune dysfunction of red cell and the pathogenesis in nephrotic syndrome. There was markedly relationship between the pathogenesis of deficiency of Yang of the Spleen and Kidney and deficiency of Qi of Spleen with stagnancy of dampness and T cell immune dysfunction. While the Ea level in deficiency of Yin of the Liver and Kidney was closely correlated with the control. Probably this type was nephrotic nephrosis which had been treated with TCM-WM. PMID- 2527088 TI - Transgenic HLA-DR alpha faithfully reconstitutes IE-controlled immune functions and induces cross-tolerance to E alpha in E alpha 0 mutant mice. AB - We have constructed transgenic mice that express the human class II MHC molecule HLA-DR alpha on a genetic background in which the equivalent endogenous gene, H-2 IE alpha, is not expressed. In these mice, DR alpha complemented the E beta chain such that tissue-specific expression of an interspecies hybrid DR alpha-E beta heterodimer was obtained. Despite 25% amino acid differences between DR alpha and E alpha, immune responsiveness to IE-controlled antigens, clonal deletion of IE reactive T cells, and alloantigenicity were quantitatively and qualitatively indistinguishable in IE-positive mice and in mice that had integrated at least four copies of the transgene. These results demonstrate a remarkable degree of structural, regulatory, and functional conservation. They also suggest that tolerance induction involves only discrete portions of MHC molecules. PMID- 2527090 TI - Fresh gas flow in the Bain circuit during laparoscopy. AB - Twenty-two women were studied during laparoscopy with abdominal insufflation of carbon dioxide. A bain anaesthetic breathing circuit was used with a fresh gas flow (VFG) of 110 ml.min-1.kg-1, and controlled ventilation was applied with a minute ventilation (VE) of 175 ml.min-1.kg-1. Arterial blood gases were analysed at the end of the operation. Nineteen of the women (86 per cent) were found to have a PaCO2 within the range for normocapnia (i.e., 4.7-5.9 kPa (35-45 mmHg), two were hypocapnic with a PaCO2 of 4.4 and 4.5 kPa (33 and 34 mmHg) respectively and one was found to have a PaCO2 of 6.2 kPa (46.5 mmHg). It was concluded that the carbon dioxide absorbed from the abdomen during laparoscopy demands fresh gas flows that are higher than normally used in the Bain circuit if a PaCO2 within the normal range is to be obtained. A simultaneous increase in VFG and VE of about 45 per cent is sufficient to achieve normocapnia. PMID- 2527091 TI - Pharmacokinetics of sufentanil. PMID- 2527092 TI - Differential interactions of traditional and novel antiemetics with dopamine D2 and 5-hydroxytryptamine3 receptors. AB - The affinities of 11 drugs for both dopamine D2 and 5-hydroxytryptamine3 (5-HT3) receptor sites were determined in brain membranes. The five "traditional" antiemetics (chlorpromazine, prochlorperazine, droperidol, fluphenazine, and domperidone) displayed high affinity (less than 20 nM) for dopamine D2 receptors in corpus striatum but were inactive at 5-HT3 receptors. In contrast, five recently developed 5-HT3 antagonists (BRL 43694, ICS 205-930, zacopride, Lilly 278584, and MDL 72222) displayed nanomolar affinity for the 5-HT3 site but were inactive (greater than 10,000 nM) at the dopamine D2 receptor. Metoclopramide was unique among these agents in that it was similarly potent at dopamine D2 (240 +/- 60 nM) and 5-HT3 (120 +/- 30 nM) receptors. PMID- 2527093 TI - Lipoprotein(a) quantified by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay with monoclonal antibodies. AB - This new, sensitive, specific "sandwich"-type enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for quantifying lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] in human serum and in ultracentrifugal lipoprotein fractions is based on use of a monoclonal antibody raised against apolipoprotein(a) as coating protein and a polyclonal antibody, raised against either apo B or against Lp(a) and conjugated with peroxidase, for detection of bound Lp(a). Mean intra- and interassay CVs for assay of 16 samples were 3.0% and 5.6%, respectively. Sample pretreatment with urea did not enhance Lp(a) immunoreactivity, and treatment with nonionic detergents decreased binding to the monoclonal antibody. Results correlated well (r = 0.99, n = 38) with those by radial immunodiffusion (RID). The ELISA assay, however, detects amounts corresponding to Lp(a) contents of 10 to 1000 mg/L in plasma samples diluted 1000 fold, compared with 100-500 mg/L for RID. For 92 normolipidemic subjects, the mean Lp(a) concentration was 120 (SD 130) mg/L. In patients undergoing coronary angiography, Lp(a) concentrations increased with the severity of the disease but were not correlated with either HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, apo A-I, or apo B, and only weakly with plasma cholesterol and apo A-II. These two correlations were even weaker in normal subjects, and only the correlation with total cholesterol was valid. Lp(a), measured at birth and at seven days and six months, steadily increased with age. This assay is well suited for measuring Lp(a) in plasma and in lipoprotein fractions and also for screening programs evaluating this significant genetic risk factor for the development of atherosclerosis. PMID- 2527094 TI - Improved radioimmunoassay of atrial natriuretic peptide in plasma. AB - We describe a radioimmunoassay (RIA) for measurement of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), based on one-step incubation and a simplified extraction procedure. The extraction was performed on a "Supelclean LC 18" column, with 2-mL plasma samples. Use of a diiodinated tracer improved the sensitivity of the RIA method. The minimal detectable value was 5 ng/L. Simplification of the extraction procedure and simultaneous incubation of the reagents provide a method more suitable for routine standard assay of ANP than those currently available. Intra- and interassay CVs were 6% (n = 12) and 11% (n = 10), respectively. The mean concentration of ANP in plasma of 32 healthy volunteers was 33 (SEM 4) ng/L. The ANP values for plasma after one-step incubation correlated well with those determined by a commercial RIA kit: r = 0.971, slope = 1.099, intercept = 1.949 ng/L (n = 25). PMID- 2527095 TI - Functional activity of protein S determined with use of protein C activated by venom activator. AB - A new screening procedure, an easy and specific assay for determining functional Protein S activity, has been developed, with use of Protein C activated by venom activator (Protac). Purified Protein C (100% amidolytic activity) was activated by venom activator (6 units/mL). To a mixture of 100 microL of Protein S deficient plasma, 20 microL of sample plasma, 100 microL of cephalin (Actin), and 20 microL of activated Protein C we added 100 microL of 25 mmol/L CaCl2 solution and measured the clotting time with a KC 10 coagulometer. The functional Protein S activity correlated well with the concentrations of Protein S antigen measured by enzyme immunoassay and the Laurell rocket technique (r = 0.810 and 0.850, respectively) in normal subjects, patients with myocardial infarction undergoing warfarin therapy, and patients with liver cirrhosis. PMID- 2527096 TI - Facial reconstruction in Down syndrome: perceptions of the results by parents and normal adolescents. AB - Randomized videotaped samples of conversational speech recorded preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively in 15 patients with Down syndrome who had undergone facial reconstruction were studied. The videotapes were rated by 34 normal adolescent students for appearance, friendliness, intelligence, and speech. In addition, the opinions of the patients' parents regarding their child's appearance and speech were surveyed. Results indicated that, although most parents reported improvements in their child's speech and appearance, independent raters could not readily discern improvement in any of the four areas studied. The use of videotape recordings to assess improvements in these traits after surgery in children with Down syndrome has not been previously reported. PMID- 2527097 TI - The mutation mechanism causing juvenile-onset Tay-Sachs disease among Lebanese. AB - Expression of the hexosaminidase isozymes was evaluated in fibroblast cell lines obtained from two sibs of Lebanese-Christian origin who presented with juvenile onset Tay-Sachs disease. In the normal control fibroblasts the alpha subunit of hexosaminidase A (hex A) is synthesized as a 67 KD precursor which is cleaved in lysosomes to a mature 54 KD peptide. The patients' fibroblasts were capable of synthesizing the 67 KD precursor but failed to convert it to the mature subunit. The alpha subunit precursor synthesized by patients' cells could not be phosphorylated, nor was the patients' alpha subunit precursor secreted into the medium in response to NH4Cl, which caused accumulation of both alpha and beta subunit precursor in the medium of the normal control fibroblasts. The measurement of residual enzyme activity in the fibroblasts of patients which best correlated with the onset of the illness was the ion exchange chromatographic separation of Hex A-associated hydrolysis of the synthetic substrate 4 methylumbelliferyl N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosamine-6-sulfate (4MUGS). The patients had 0.32% and 0.36% of Hex A-associated 4MUGS cleaving activity compared to normal control fibroblasts as compared to less than 0.016% for infantile Tay Sachs disease fibroblasts. The residual Hex A activity in patients' cells had a pH optimum identical with normal enzyme (pH 3.9-4.0), a reduced specific activity for 4MUGS (relative to hydrolysis of unsulfated synthetic substrate), and a greatly enhanced thermal stability. The occurrence of this form of Tay-Sachs disease in Lebanon, the fact that the condition has been described in three unrelated Lebanese immigrant families in Canada, together with the fact that the grandparents of the unrelated probands come from villages in both the northern and southern regions of Lebanon, leads us to speculate that a gene causing juvenile-onset Tay-Sachs disease may not be infrequent in Lebanon. PMID- 2527098 TI - Detection of autoantibodies in a quantitative immunoassay using recombinant ribonucleoprotein antigens. AB - A human cDNA expression library was screened with anti-ribonucleoprotein (RNP) antibodies from patients with connective tissue diseases. Three cDNA clones were isolated encoding 70 kD, A and B" ribonucleoprotein autoantigens which were expressed as beta-galactosidase fusion proteins. Antigens were purified and used to develop sensitive ELISAs suitable for the routine screening of large series of sera from patients with connective tissue diseases. More than 400 sera were tested both by ELISA and by immunoblotting. The ELISA was found to be at least as sensitive as immunoblotting and very specific. Anti-70 kD antibodies were found in 94% of patients with mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD), in 4% of patients with other connective tissue diseases but not in normal controls. Furthermore, the use of recombinant 70 kD antigen enabled us to discriminate between anti-70 kD antibodies present in anti-Sm and in anti-(U1) RNP sera. Recombinant A antigen contained at least two autoantibody-reactive sites; one unique for the A protein and another cross-reactive with anti-B" antibodies. Antibodies reactive with the unique site were found in 83% of MCTD patients, in 4% of patients with other connective tissue diseases and not in normal controls. Antibodies against the cross-reactive B" epitope present on A and B" recombinant antigens, were found in high titres in a small percentage of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE, 5%) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA, 2%). PMID- 2527099 TI - Developmental changes of double-negative (CD3+ 4-8-) T cells in human peripheral blood. AB - The frequency of double-negative (CD3+4-8-) T cells in the circulating pool was examined for different age groups. Adult peripheral blood contained a substantial but variable proportion of double-negative T cells. Double-negative T cells in adult peripheral blood were shown to lack the alpha/beta heterodimers of the T cell antigen receptor (TCR alpha/beta) but express the gamma chain of the TCR (TCR gamma), when examined using the corresponding monoclonal antibodies. In contrast to adult blood, double-negative, TCR alpha/beta-negative, and TCR gamma positive T cells were very scarcely demonstrated in the cord blood of newborn infants. It was found that the percentages of double-negative T cells correlated very well with those of TCR alpha/beta negative T cells. These double-negative T cells in the peripheral blood gradually increased with advancing age and reached in frequency the adult level around one year of age. The results suggested that double-negative T cells expressing the TCR gamma/delta might play an ontogenically unique role in the development of the T cell functions. PMID- 2527100 TI - Suppression of autologous mixed leukocyte reaction in type 1 diabetes mellitus by in vivo-activated T lymphocytes. AB - In vivo-activated interleukin 2 receptor-positive T lymphocytes (Tac cells) are demonstrable and the autologous mixed leukocyte reaction (AMLR) is impaired in several autoimmune diseases, including type 1 insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM). We investigated AMLR in greater detail, together with possible relationships between AMLR and Tac lymphocytes in IDDM. Coculture experiments with HLA identical patient-healthy sibling pairs revealed that both responder and stimulator cells of diabetic patients function abnormally in AMLR. Suppressive Tac lymphocytes among responder T cells seemed to impair their proliferation. The removal of Tac cells by immunomagnetic beads led to a striking enhancement of proliferation, while the restoration of AMLR cultures with enriched Tac cells was accompanied by a diminished response. The reasons for the poor stimulatory capacity of patient cells are at present unknown but may be due to altered function and/or structure of HLA-DR molecules. PMID- 2527101 TI - Sex difference in the CD4 + CD45R+ T lymphocytes in normal individuals and its selective decrease in women with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. AB - Chronic idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is a well-defined autoimmune hematologic disorder. It is more common in women than men. We have shown that patients with active disease have abnormal T cell subsets which are more perturbed in women than in men and functional abnormalities that are confined to the T lymphocytes. In the current study, the anti-2H4 (CD45R) monoclonal antibody was used to divide the CD4 subset into their CD4+ CD45R+ and CD4+ CD45R- T lymphocytes. The subpopulations were measured in the peripheral blood of 26 women and 15 men with active ITP, 16 women and 8 men with disease in remission, and 33 normal healthy women and men. Normal women had increased percentages (P less than 0.0001) and numbers (P less than 0.005) of the CD4+ CD45R+ lymphocytes compared to normal men. Women with active disease had reduced percentages and numbers of CD4+ CD45R+ lymphocytes compared to normal women (P less than 0.0001) and women with disease in remission (P less than 0.001). Those women with decreased CD4+ CD45R+ lymphocytes had a significantly depressed lymphocyte response to polyclonal T cell mitogens. In contrast, men with active disease had neither such phenotypic changes nor functional correlations. The percentages and numbers of CD4+ CD45R- lymphocytes were not changed in either sex with active disease. In conclusion, women, but not men, with active ITP appear to possess a reduced subpopulation of CD4+ CD45R+ T lymphocytes. PMID- 2527102 TI - Down syndrome. Clinical review of ocular features. AB - A total of 187 medical records of Down syndrome individuals over a 10-year period were reviewed retrospectively for strabismus, myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, nystagmus, cataract, glaucoma, and other significant eye findings. This study showed that a higher proportion of these individuals than reported in previous studies had strabismus (57%). Refractive errors of myopia (22.5%), hyperopia (20.9%) and astigmatism (22%) were common. The primary care physician needs to be aware of the specific eye problems of Down syndrome individuals so that he or she may initiate or refer the patient for appropriate ophthalmologic care, because most of the eye findings in Down syndrome are treatable. Significant visual loss, a usually avoidable event in Down syndrome, should occur rarely. PMID- 2527104 TI - Six cases of subclavian stenosis treated by percutaneous angioplasty. AB - Percutaneous angioplasty was performed on six patients with proximal left subclavian artery stenosis. The lesions treated included short band like stenoses and longer atheromatous segments and were all haemodynamically significant. The subclavian arteries were all successfully dilated using a standard angioplasty technique and there were no residual complications. Percutaneous angioplasty is shown to be an effective method of treatment of subclavian stenosis. PMID- 2527103 TI - Hepatitis B virus vaccine. Cost-benefit analysis of its use in a children's hospital. AB - A cost-benefit analysis of routine active immunization against hepatitis B virus (HBV) for 500 nursing personnel at The Children's Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, Missouri, is described. Based on outcomes of HBV infection, local charges for medical care and wages lost from illness, the authors calculate the average cost per case of HBV infection to be $1,990. Including the current system of postexposure prophylaxis and an annual attack rate of 1 percent the current annual cost of HBV infection in The Children's Mercy Hospital is $12,630. The HBV immunization program would have to continue for 15 years before its cumulative costs ($189,133) were exceeded by those of the current system ($189,450). Therefore routine immunization of nurses would not be cost effective in the near future. If, however, a subset of high-risk employees with a 2 percent attack rate is identified, or the cost of the HBV vaccine series fell from the current $103 to $27, then routine immunization would become cost beneficial within 6 years. PMID- 2527105 TI - Myocardial bridging of the coronary arteries. AB - Of 1102 consecutive coronary angiograms 16 (1.4%) were found to have systolic narrowing typical of myocardial bridging on the left anterior coronary artery or its branches. Four cases of bridging had otherwise normal coronary arteriograms, four were associated with left ventricular hypertrophy (three in cases of aortic valve disease and one case of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy) and eight were found in association with fixed coronary artery stenoses. Bridging was seen more commonly than expected on normal angiograms. When bridging was associated with left ventricular hypertrophy it affected a longer segment and caused more severe compression. When bridging was found in patients with coronary artery disease, it was not associated with atheroma at its site. Evidence for a pathogenic role of myocardial bridging in ischaemic heart disease is discussed. PMID- 2527106 TI - Occluded coronary arteries treated by percutaneous coronary angioplasty. PMID- 2527107 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide-induced decreases in renal blood flow in man: implications for the natriuretic mechanism. AB - 1. We studied the effect of a low-dose infusion of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) on renal blood flow in healthy volunteers. We additionally investigated the effect of ANP on renal haemodynamic function and on urinary sodium excretion. 2. ANP induced a rise in packed cell volume and a slight increase (but no decrease) in the renal extraction of hippuran. These changes did not offset the observed fall in effective renal plasma flow. Renal blood flow thus truly decreased and renal vascular resistance increased. 3. ANP induced an increase in glomerular filtration rate and a decrease in urinary osmolality in the first hour of ANP infusion, whereas absolute and fractional sodium excretion increased significantly only in the second hour of ANP infusion. The decrease in urinary osmolality in the first hour of ANP infusion correlated with the induced natriuresis. The changes in urinary osmolality and sodium excretion both correlated with the changes in plasma ANP levels. 4. These data indicate that ANP may cause a decrease in renal blood flow and an increase of renal vascular resistance in man. Our results suggest a role for ANP-induced (intra)renal haemodynamic changes in ANP-induced natriuresis, possibly through an increase in the filtered load of sodium into a washed-out medullary interstitium. PMID- 2527108 TI - Unusual presentation of thoracic disc herniation. AB - A 24-year-old patient with thoracic disc herniation mimicking lumbar disc disease is reported. While getting out of his car the patient suffered an acute onset of lumbar pain radiating down to the buttock and vaguely into the abdomen on the right. Myelography and computed tomography demonstrated a centrolateral noncalcified disc herniation at T10-11, in close relation to a Schmorl's node. The different clinical presentations of thoracic disc herniation are discussed. PMID- 2527110 TI - [On the eventual psychotropic, cardiovascular and aphrodisiac properties of yohimbine, an old drug with new indications]. AB - The authors examined pharmacological actions of Yohimbine, an indolic alkaloid alpha-2-adrenoceptor antagonist. Several specific functions have been attributed to the alpha-2-adrenoceptor such as reduction of sympathetic outflow and pre synaptic inhibition of noradrenergic neurons. Particularly the following are discussed: behavioural, antidepressant and anxiogenic effects: aphrodisiac effect; cardiovascular effects and metabolic effects. PMID- 2527109 TI - A destructive discovertebral lesion: septic discitis, ankylosing spondylitis, or rheumatoid arthritis? AB - A 41-year-old male with a 20-year history of classical ankylosing spondylitis, psoriasis and seropositive, nodular erosive rheumatoid arthritis presented with a 12-month history of thoracolumbar junction pain following minor trauma. A pseudoarthrosis was noted at the T11/12 level on plain radiographs and tomograms. A gallium scan showed no increased isotope uptake, and a computed tomogram (CT) revealed no evidence of a paraspinal collection. Conservative management including cast immobilisation and local radiotherapy was ineffective, and spinal fusion was required. A typical Andersson lesion was found at operation. The diagnostic and therapeutic problems of such discovertebral lesions are discussed. PMID- 2527111 TI - [Proposal for the nosographic classification of 2 integrated systems. Interrelations of the cutaneous and renal systems]. AB - Having briefly recalled the close functional interaction of diseases which often involve both syplay between skin and kidney, the authors suggest a new model for the nosographic classificastems and are at present observed with increasing frequency. PMID- 2527112 TI - [Short- and medium-term treatment of ventricular hyperkinetic arrhythmia with flecainide]. AB - Our study group included 12 patients (4 males, 8 females), mean age 60 yr, with symptomatic or threatening tachyarrhythmias (Lown classes IV A, B, V); 2 patients were suffering from mitral valve prolapse syndrome, 2 from ischemic heart disease; 4 from cardiac insufficiency caused by hypertensive or ischemic heart disease; 4 had no evident clinical signs of cardiopathy. Patients suffering from: cardiac insufficiency (F.C. III e IV NYHA); II and III degree BAV; atrial flutter and fibrillation; long QT syndrome; acute ischemic heart disease were excluded from the study. During short-term treatment, patients received placebo for four days and subsequently flecainide 200 mg daily for four days. During medium-term treatment patients received flecainide 200 mg daily (for six months). Several Holter/24-hour monitorings were performed for evaluation of therapy. No significant reduction in the number of ectopic ventricular beats (B.E.V.) was found with placebo whereas reductions of B.E.V. number (97% and 95%, respectively) were found during short and medium-term treatment with flecainide. Flecainide produced: changes in Lown class: from IV A, B and V to II and I; a marked reduction of subjective symptoms (dyspnea, giddiness syncope, precordial pain); ECG changes: increases in: PR: 5-25%; QRS: 11-12%; QT: 11-22%. Flecainide produced no pro-arrhythmic effects or changes in echocardiographic ventricular function index. Flecainide can be considered one of the most effective new antiarrhythmic drugs. PMID- 2527113 TI - [Hypogalactia: therapeutic possibilities]. AB - Having briefly summarized the physiology of lactogenesis and gactopoiesis, the authors stress the fundamental role played by prolactin. In this context, they suggest medical treatment intended to improve mammary function in cases of deficient lactation. Two different types of treatment were tried: direct administration of prolactin or administration of antidopaminergic drugs capable of increasing endogenous prolactin production. In addition to confirming once more the usefulness of early physiological stimulation by suckling, experience in a group of puerperae showed that treatment apt to increase prolactin serum levels was the best therapeutic choice. PMID- 2527114 TI - [Critical considerations on various experimental staphylococcus infections]. AB - The authors discuss some problems concerning the use of models in biomedical research and particular animal models of staphylococcal infections simple, reproducible and similar to the corresponding human diseases. Two models of staphylococcal infections are examined in particular: experimental endocarditis and osteomyelitis, considering their characteristics and reliability in relation to the corresponding human diseases. PMID- 2527115 TI - [Mesoglycan in acute and chronic venous insufficiency of the legs]. AB - Fifty-eight patients with acute and chronic pathology of the lower limbs were treated with daily oral doses of 96 mg of mesoglycan, a drug having antithrombotic and fibrinolytic properties. After a 3-months trial both clinical picture and instrumental parameters were found to be improved. PMID- 2527117 TI - [Advise for the general practitioner: information for the obese patient]. PMID- 2527116 TI - [Prevalence and associated factors of cholelithiasis]. AB - The most recent data on the epidemiology of biliary calculosis have been examined in order to assess the true prevalence of this pathology. In addition, studies concerning factors favorable to the development of gallstones have been reviewed critically in order to identify the clinically most significant ones. PMID- 2527118 TI - [Anorexigenic drugs: when, how and why]. PMID- 2527119 TI - [Erythrocyte filterability and relative viscosity in liver cirrhosis and chronic hepatitis]. AB - Fifty patients with liver disease, of whom twenty-four had chronic active hepatitis and twenty-three had liver cirrhosis, were studied and compared with thirty-nine age- and sex-matched controls. Whole blood, plasma and their relative viscosities and the main factors capable of influencing these parameters (Ht, fibrinogen, triglycerides, cholesterol, plasma glucose, total proteins and gamma globulins) were tested. Whole blood filterability time and velocity of red blood cells (VRBC) were also determined. In ten patients deformability of erythrocytes was determined both in whole blood and in suspensions of RBC in buffer at a Ht of 10%. Whole blood filterability time was significantly increased in all subjects with liver disease. Corrected filterability time was increased only in the cirrhotic group associated with a significant decrease of Ht and fibrinogen and a slight increase in gamma globulins and plasma viscosity. Whole blood viscosity was in the normal range while relative viscosity was decreased in all patients. These findings suggest that both shape alterations of red cells (such as echinocytic shape) and modifications of plasma proteins probably lead to a decrease of red cell filtration in cirrhotic patients. PMID- 2527120 TI - [Influence of mineral waters on functional dyspepsia]. AB - The author discusses morbid conditions of the upper digestive tract giving rise to dyspepsia, especially those involving gastric function. Several classifications are reported, as well as studies concerning gastric emptying. The effects of spa treatments with drinking of mineral waters is examined in relation to primary dysfunctions of the stomach and biliary passages. PMID- 2527122 TI - [Monotherapy, empirical and targetted, with imipenem-cilastatin in sepsis of bacterial origin]. AB - The authors describe an open study in 22 patients with febrile conditions of unknown origin who were treated with imipenem-cilastatin while waiting for routine laboratory and culture tests. These were done immediately at the patients' entry into hospital, after which imipenem-cilastatin treatment was started immediately, and was subsequently confirmed by the isolates and culture tests. The drug was found to be active and to eradicate the responsible organism in all cases. In addition, it was found to be easy to handle and not to give rise to side-effects or changes in laboratory tests. PMID- 2527121 TI - [Calcium dobesilate, hemorheology, fibrinolysis and endothelium. New perspectives on the prevention of diabetic microangiopathy. Clinical pharmacological study]. AB - The authors report the results of a double-blind cross-over study on calcium dobesilate in which two groups of eight recent-onset type-II diabetics were treated either p.o. (1 g once daily) or i.v. (500 mg in 100 ml of physiological saline) with calcium dobesilate or with placebo. During oral administration of the drug, blood rheology and total fibrinolytic capacity were assessed by calculating euglobulin lysis time. In view of the evidence for a viscosity lowering action of the drug (which had already been found in "long-term" studies) and of potentiation of fibrinolytic activity, intravenous treatment was started with the object of elucidating the possible mechanisms of action, evaluating at the same time other parameters concerning the functional fibrinolytic pathways. It has thus been possible to ascertain that the drug has "rheologic" activity, interferes with the function of endothelial cells by stimulating the release of tissue plasminogen activator and thus increases fibrinolytic activity while not interfering with the clotting function and not altering platelet beta thromboglobulin secretion. These findings appear to confirm the possibilities for therapeutic use of calcium dobesilate which is thought to act on a variety of pathogenetic mechanisms involved in diabetic microangiopathy. PMID- 2527123 TI - [Open evaluation of a new anti-inflammatory analgesic drug: etodolac. Report of a clinical trial]. AB - In a controlled clinical study the efficacy and tolerance of etodolac was evaluated in patients with orthopedic or traumatologic pathology. Twenty-four patients received one 200 mg tablet of the drug in the morning and two in the evening; patients were followed for a minimum of 60 days, and laboratory tests were done at the start, mid-term and after the end of treatment. For clinical evaluation, the following parameters were assessed: --pain during movement; - morning stiffness; --pain/sleep ratio; --global evaluation. For each of these parameters, a score was attributed at the beginning and end of treatment so as to obtain a quantitative assessment of the long-term pharmacological and clinical results. The patients benefitted from the treatment with specific effects on the parameters considered. Tolerance was good: only one patient had to abandon treatment. Compliance was fair, and the results were considered satisfactory even before the planned conclusion of the trial so that patients were advised to stop taking the drug once the therapeutic objective had been achieved. Overall judgment was very good as far as the pharmacological effect was concerned, and good as to tolerance and compliance. PMID- 2527124 TI - [Drug therapy of arterial hypertension. Reflections and suggestions]. AB - Treatment of arterial hypertension is an important part of medical care provided in industrialized countries today. When non-drug treatment turns out to be ineffective, or when hypertension levels are higher than target values, or target organ damage is ascertained, drug therapy must be started. This rationale comes from large-scale intervention trials, which have shown that the lowering of elevated blood pressure reduces cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. A logical aim in treatment of hypertension should be both to "normalize" hypertension induced cardiovascular abnormalities and to maintain the quality of life, without undesirable influence on other cardiovascular risks. Moreover, if we could identify the major hemodynamic impairment behind increased blood pressure and correct it by an appropriate drug therapy, then we would have a satisfactory means to perform individualized treatment. Over the past years the empirical basis for the use of antihypertensive drugs has been replaced by a step-wise approach, but few attempts have been made to provide an approach that fits pathophysiological understanding. For this reason the above-mentioned step-wise approach has been found to be an uncorrected simplification of antihypertensive care. Also, the use of more recent drugs (calcium channel blockers, ACE inhibitors and serotonin-receptor blockers) as an alternative to beta-blockers and diuretics in first step therapy, has further contributed to the abandonment of the step-wise approach. The different groups of antihypertensive agents are examined with reference to their mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, indications, and desirable and untoward effects. At present, indirect vasodilators, such as calcium-antagonists, ACE-inhibitors and serotonin-receptor blockers, alone or combined with diuretics, represent an intrinsic part of basic antihypertensive therapy. Beta-adrenoceptor antagonists remain the agents of choice when the principal therapeutic aim is to reduce the adrenergic drive. Both these drugs and direct vasodilators or alpha-adrenoceptor antagonists can be employed in the most severe forms of hypertension. In such cases, combined therapy (vasodilator + antiadrenergic + diuretic agents) is often used. Sublingual nifedipine and intravenous diazoxide or sodium nitroprusside are the drugs of choice for the hypertensive crisis. The use of most of the central or peripheral sympatholytic agents has generally been abandoned. Finally, beta blockers and calcium-antagonists have been shown to have a secure place in the management of ischemic heart disease complicating arterial hypertension. In this condition captopril also appears to be useful. PMID- 2527125 TI - [Problems of respiratory drug therapy in pregnancy]. PMID- 2527126 TI - Authoritarianism in diabetology. PMID- 2527127 TI - Regulatory peptides, the hypothalamus and diabetes. PMID- 2527128 TI - The effect of improved control on blood filtration properties and non-enzymatic glycosylation of erythrocyte proteins in type 2 diabetes. AB - Abnormal blood flow in the microcirculation has been reported in diabetes and may be important in the pathogenesis of diabetic complications. The mechanism of this is not understood but non-enzymatic glycosylation of erythrocyte membrane or haemoglobin causing reduced erythrocyte deformability and a secondary change in filtration properties of blood have been suggested as possible factors. The relationship of non-enzymatic glycosylation of erythrocyte membrane and glycosylated haemoglobin to filtration time of blood was investigated during stabilization of diabetes with sulphonylurea therapy. Over an 8-month period, glycosylated haemoglobin, non-enzymatic glycosylation of erythrocyte membrane, and filtration time fell by 41%, 71%, and 53% of the initial value, respectively, but the rate of decline was slower for filtration time which did not change significantly until the last month. Due to the different time-course of improvement, no relationship was found between filtration time and glycosylated haemoglobin or non-enzymatic glycosylation of erythrocyte membrane whereas glycosylated haemoglobin and non-enzymatic glycosylation of erythrocyte membrane correlated significantly (r = 0.49, p less than 0.001). These results suggest that the abnormal filtration property of blood in diabetes is not a direct consequence of non-enzymatic glycosylation, and suggest that the erythrocytes made in the hyperglycaemic milieu are abnormally rigid. The filtration properties of blood are only improved when new generations of erythrocytes enter the circulation. PMID- 2527129 TI - Mental arithmetic stress as a test for evaluation of diabetic sympathetic autonomic neuropathy. AB - The effects of a 1-min mental arithmetic stress test on heart rate change were studied in 72 Type 1 diabetic patients, 36 without and 36 with diabetic autonomic neuropathy (mean age 33 and 44 yr, respectively), and in 80 matched normal subjects. Variation in hand skin temperature was also recorded in 25 normal subjects and 30 diabetic patients without and 32 with autonomic neuropathy. While mental arithmetic rapidly reduced skin temperature of normal volunteers and of patients without autonomic neuropathy, no effect was found in autonomic neuropath (a drop of 0.63 +/- 0.05 (+/- SE), 0.52 +/- 0.04 and 0.16 +/- 0.02 degrees C (p less than 0.001), respectively). In control subjects and in diabetic patients without and with autonomic neuropathy the heart rate increase was 22.9 +/- 6.8 (+/- SD), 21.4 +/- 8.4 and 7.0 +/- 3.7 beats min-1, respectively (p less than 0.001). The ratio between maximum mental arithmetic-induced heart rate and basal heart rate was 1.29 +/- 0.10, 1.24 +/- 0.10 and 1.07 +/- 0.05 (p less than 0.001) for healthy subjects, non-neuropathic patients, and neuropathic patients. Cut-off values (the low normal limit for these variables) are proposed: skin temperature 0.23 degrees C, heart rate increase 11.6 beats min-1 and heart rate ratio 1.12. Anxiety state, blood glucose concentration (excluding hypoglycaemia), body position, basal heart rate, and age did not interfere with responses to mental arithmetic stress. PMID- 2527131 TI - Evidence against a role for prostaglandins in sustaining renal hyperfiltration in type 1 diabetes mellitus. AB - The acute effect of inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis with indomethacin 50 mg by mouth on renal haemodynamics has been examined in 8 male Type 1 diabetic patients with elevated glomerular filtration rate who were free of diabetic complications. Renal plasma flow and glomerular filtration rate were measured by constant infusion of para-amino hippurate and polyfructosan, the patients being studied at normoglycaemia. Urinary excretion of prostaglandin E2 fell from 885 +/ 160 to 345 +/- 115 pg min-1, and excretion of 6-keto-prostaglandin F1 alpha fell from 489 +/- 77 to 283 +/- 50 pg min-1. There was no change in renal plasma flow or glomerular filtration rate following indomethacin. The results do not support the hypothesis that increased renal prostaglandin synthesis is a cause of hyperfiltration in diabetes mellitus. PMID- 2527130 TI - A comparison of human ultralente- and lente-based twice-daily injection regimens. AB - The problem of fasting hyperglycaemia remains unresolved on currently used twice daily injection regimens. Human ultralente insulin is of longer duration than human lente and differs from it only in the nature of the zinc-insulin complex. In a 6-month double-blind crossover study these insulins were compared in 66 patients who were randomized to human ultralente or human lente insulin given together with human soluble insulin in a twice-daily injection regimen. Patients were seen monthly and crossed over after 3 months treatment. Fasting blood glucose concentrations on the ultralente regimen were considerably lower than on the lente regimen, the difference being statistically significant (6.6 +/- 0.5 vs 8.2 +/- 0.5 mmol l-1, p less than 0.05), but only present in those patients with fasting concentrations below the median. Glycosylated haemoglobin was identical on both regimens (9.3 +/- 0.2%). The evening ultralente dose was slightly but significantly lower than the evening lente dose (14.9 +/- 0.8 vs 15.5 +/- 0.8 U, p less than 0.05) thus endorsing the lowering effect of ultralente on the fasting blood glucose concentration. However, the incidence of serious hypoglycaemic events was higher on the ultralente regimen (0.38 +/- 0.10 vs 0.09 +/- 0.04 events per patient-month, p less than 0.02), the majority of nocturnal events occurring between 0500 h and breakfast. We conclude that ultralente insulin can give an improved fasting blood glucose concentration but that in those patients with more marked fasting hyperglycaemia or with a nocturnal hypoglycaemia problem it offers no clinical advantage over human lente insulin in a twice-daily injection regimen. PMID- 2527132 TI - Dietary fructose as a natural sweetener in poorly controlled type 2 diabetes: a 12-month crossover study of effects on glucose, lipoprotein and apolipoprotein metabolism. AB - The metabolic effects of fructose incorporated in the normal diets of 13 poorly controlled, Type 2 diabetic patients were studied in a 6-month, randomized, crossover study. Patients used 60 g day-1 of crystalline fructose in divided amounts as part of their isocaloric (1400-3900 kcal), weight-maintaining diet. During fructose supplementation, the distribution of carbohydrate-derived calories was 35% complex and 15% simple, the latter solely from fructose. This was compared with the patients' values on their usual diabetic diet (carbohydrate 50% (mostly complex), fat 38%, and protein 12%). After 6 months of taking fructose, fasting serum glucose decreased from 12.6 +/- 1.1 (+/- SE) to 9.8 +/- 1.3 mmol l-1 (p less than 0.02), while it was unchanged on normal diet (11.0 +/- 0.1 vs 11.6 +/- 0.9 mmol l-1, NS). Glycosylated haemoglobin was also reduced from 11.3 +/- 0.4 to 9.9 +/- 0.5% (p less than 0.05) on fructose, but unchanged on the control diet (10.4 +/- 0.7 vs 11.2 +/- 0.7%, NS). No significant long-term deleterious changes were observed in the fasting serum lipids, lipoproteins, and apolipoproteins A-1 and B-100. Fructose was well tolerated without significant effects on body weight, or lactic acid and uric acid levels. PMID- 2527133 TI - Multiple daily insulin injections improve self-confidence. AB - The efficacy and psychosocial effects of multiple daily insulin injections (three preprandial injections of short-acting insulin (NovoPen) and once daily, bedtime extended-acting insulin) were compared with those of twice daily combinations of short- and intermediate-acting insulin, in a randomized crossover study (two 6 month periods), in 16 adult diabetic patients. HbA1 was not significantly different for the two treatment modalities (8.2 +/- 0.4 vs 7.6 +/- 0.4%). With the pen-injector regimen significantly less state anxiety (36.0 +/- 2.5 vs 39.5 +/- 2.7; p less than 0.05) was found than with the conventional syringe regimen. The patients tended to experience a better self-concept as having diabetes (32.0 +/- 2.1 vs 37.7 +/- 3.0; p less than 0.06), as well as less external ('chance') orientation (18.5 +/- 1.2 vs 20.7 +/- 1.6; p = 0.09) with the pen-injector regimen. A subgroup of patients with lower trait anxiety scores experienced less state anxiety during the pen-injector regimen than during twice daily insulin injections (30.6 +/- 2.6 vs 34.3 +/- 2.7; p less than 0.05). However, this subgroup tended to be less positive about injecting insulin during the pen injector regimen (34.8 +/- 3.6 vs 29.6 +/- 4.0; p less than 0.08). The subgroup with higher trait anxiety scores experienced a better self-concept as having diabetes (35.3 +/- 2.3 vs 40.1 +/- 2.6; p less than 0.05) and a tendency towards less physician orientation (15.8 +/- 1.8 vs 19.6 +/- 2.7; p less than 0.07) with the pen-injector regimen. Thirteen patients continued with the pen-injector regimen. PMID- 2527134 TI - A randomized crossover study of sulphonylurea and insulin treatment in patients with type 2 diabetes poorly controlled on dietary therapy. AB - In 13 non-obese patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus who failed to achieve adequate blood glucose control on dietary treatment (fasting blood glucose 13.4 +/- 2.7 (+/- SD) mmol l-1, glycosylated haemoglobin 13.0 +/- 1.7%), the effects of 6 months insulin or sulphonylurea therapy on blood glucose control and lipid metabolism were compared in a randomized crossover study. Three patients, who showed a clear improvement on insulin (median glycosylated haemoglobin fell from 14.7 to 8.6%), withdrew from the study prematurely because of subjective and objective signs of hyperglycaemia after crossover from insulin to sulphonylurea. Daily dose after 6 months was 2000 mg tolbutamide (n = 3), 18 +/- 1 mg glibenclamide (n = 7), or 34 +/- 3 U insulin. On insulin, fasting (8.0 +/- 1.9 mmol l-1) and postprandial blood glucose (10.4 +/- 2.7 mmol l-1), and glycosylated haemoglobin (9.5 +/- 1.1%) were lower than on sulphonylurea (11.0 +/ 3.4 mmol l-1, 14.4 +/- 4.8 mmol l-1 and 11.0 +/- 2.5%, respectively, p less than 0.05 in each case). Median increase in body weight was greater on insulin (4.2 vs 1.1 kg, p less than 0.05). Six patients experienced improved well-being on insulin compared with sulphonylurea. Median plasma non-esterified fatty acids decreased from 825 mumol l-1 to 476 mumol l-1 (sulphonylurea) and 642 mumol l-1 (insulin, both p less than 0.05).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527135 TI - Wound classification is more important than site of ulceration in the outcome of diabetic foot ulcers. AB - The importance of wound classification and site of ulceration was evaluated in 314 consecutive diabetic patients with foot ulcers. The ulcers were classified as superficial (through the full thickness of the dermis; n = 150), deep (n = 50), osteomyelitis and/or abscess (n = 46), minor gangrene (n = 39) or major gangrene (n = 29). Wound healing was defined as intact skin for at least 6 months. In patients with superficial and deep ulcers, primary healing occurred in 88% and 78%, respectively, compared with 57% in those patient who developed an abscess and/or osteomyelitis. Only 2 out of 68 patients with gangrene healed (through mummification) without amputation. Patients with gangrene had lower ankle and toe blood pressure than patients with all other types of ulcers. There were only marginal differences in primary healing rate between different ulcer sites. The highest rate was seen in ulcers localized to the metatarsal heads (78%). Patients with multiple ulcers had the lowest primary healing rate (5%) compared with single ulcers at all sites. These differences were probably due to circulatory factors, since patients with multiple ulcers had lower distal perfusion pressures compared with all other groups. PMID- 2527137 TI - Dietary recommendations for children and adolescents with diabetes. PMID- 2527136 TI - The contribution of intermediate-acting insulin preparations to daytime insulin treatment. AB - Hyperglycaemia in the afternoon is often not prevented by increasing the intermediate insulin dose in C-peptide deficient Type 1 diabetic patients, particularly children, treated with two injections of mixtures of short- and intermediate-acting insulins. To provide a better understanding of this, 19 Type 1 diabetic patients were studied using the euglycaemic clamp technique, after SC injection of either soluble, isophane (NPH) or lente insulin, or mixtures of these preparations. SC injection of 0.6 U kg-1 insulin, as either intermediate acting (isophane (NPH) or lente) insulin alone or as a mixture of 50% soluble + 50% intermediate-acting insulins, indicates that, for the same total dose of SC insulin, a shift from soluble to intermediate-acting insulin results in a major loss of activity during the first 6 h after injection, with no compensatory increase over the next 6 h. The morning hypoglycaemic activity depends on different mechanisms with isophane (NPH) or lente insulin; the effects of soluble and isophane (NHP) insulin are superimposed, while with lente insulin, the peak of soluble insulin is blunted. For the afternoon, even large doses of isophane (NPH) or lente insulin do not meet the peak of insulin requirements following lunch. PMID- 2527138 TI - District diabetes centres. PMID- 2527139 TI - Dental welfare profiles in a group of disabled Norwegian adults. AB - In a group of 496 non-institutionalized disabled Norwegian adults the possibility of identifying groups with particular dental welfare profiles which could be ascribed to a set of resource profiles was studied. Eight independent resource variables and seven dependent dental welfare variables were included in the model using canonical correlation analysis. Three main dental welfare profiles were identified: The most important profile was dominated by number of own teeth and differences were mainly ascribed to age, income, marital status and education. The second profile comprised a combination of absence of payment arrangement, chewing problems and barriers for dental care and differences were ascribed to sex, hospital experience, and organized assistance. The third profile discriminating between the disabled individuals was problems with performing dental hygiene associated with irregular use of dental services and barriers for dental care and differences were related to sex, marital status, degree of dependency, and organized assistance. For all profiles, individual characteristics were more important than contextual resources. PMID- 2527140 TI - Oral health screening of elderly people attending a community care centre. AB - A socio-dental survey was carried out to determine the level of dental disease and treatment requirement among elderly people attending a Community Care Centre. A screening programme involving 293 elderly people demonstrated a normative need of 82% and a felt need of 53%. Seventy-six per cent would have benefited from dental care. Many individuals who both needed and wanted dental care were not receiving it because they were discouraged from doing so predominantly because of poor mobility. It is recommended, therefore, that dentists be included in multi disciplinary teams caring for elderly people so that they can be screened and given the opportunity to obtain dental care. PMID- 2527141 TI - Phosphofructokinase from porcine heart, liver and erythrocytes. AB - 1. Phosphofructokinase from porcine heart, liver and erythrocytes were purified by affinity chromatographies on Cibacron Blue Sepharose and N6-ATP agarose. 2. Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate revealed that the heart and liver enzymes consist of only one kind of subunit, namely, M and L type subunits, respectively, whereas the erythrocyte enzyme comprises of three kinds of subunits, M, L and C types. 3. Some kinetic and regulatory properties of the enzymes were also measured. PMID- 2527142 TI - Helping disabled mothers. PMID- 2527143 TI - Oral baicalin and liquid extract of licorice reduce sorbitol levels in red blood cell of diabetic rats. AB - Intracellular accumulation of sorbitol, resulting from the increased glucose flux through polyol pathway with the action of aldose reductase, has been found pathogenic to chronic diabetic complications. It has been reported that baicalin and Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch can inhibit rat lens aldose reductase in vitro. In order to determine whether the said medicinal herbs give the inhibitive effect in vivo, 10 streptozotocin induced diabetic rats were treated with baicalin 150 mg/kg.d and liquid extract of licorice (LEL) 7.5 ml/kg.d for a week. RBC sorbitol was determined by a fluorometric assay before and after the treatment, as well as one week afterwards. It was found that oral baicalin and licorice dramatically reduced sorbitol levels in RBC without affecting blood glucose levels. The sorbitol levels was restored to its original values one week after discontinuing the treatment. The present study has demonstrated the effectiveness of baicalin and licorice in reducing RBC sorbitol levels in diabetic rats. Its mechanism is presumably through inhibition of aldose reductase. The feasibility of its clinical application for the control of diabetic complications is under investigation. PMID- 2527144 TI - Testosterone and estradiol serum levels in acne. AB - 45 acne patients and 38 healthy subjects were assayed for serum testosterone and estradiol levels by RIA. The results showed that serum testosterone levels of male patients were normal, but serum estradiol levels were significantly higher (40%) than in healthy males. In female patients, estradiol levels were normal, but testosterone levels were significantly higher (47%) than in healthy females. Of the 18 female patients, 16 had various degrees of menstrual dysfunction, and some even had slight hirsutism. Therefore, male acne patients should not be treated with estrogen, and in female acne patients with ovarian dysfunction, artificial menstrual cycle therapy is recommended. PMID- 2527145 TI - [Advances in the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis]. PMID- 2527146 TI - [Angiographic diagnosis of lesions of the mitral valve and its appendages]. AB - 68 cases with 76 left ventriculographies, including rheumatic mitral valvular disease, congestive and hypertrophic types of cardiomyopathy, endocardial cushion defect, atrial and ventricular septal defects, coronary heart disease and mitral valve prolapse were analyzed with respect to the morphological and functional changes of the mitral valve and its appendages. Dynamic study with cineradiographic technic was the chief method used in this investigation. Except for ventricular septal defect, all the above-mentioned disease entities showed one or several of the changes of the mitral valvular apparatus including stenosis, insufficiency, displacement, cleft, deformity, prolapse and functional disorder. Regurgitation associated with mitral insufficiency exhibiting specific manifestations in different conditions was analyzed and its method of grading discussed. Mitral valve prolapse with its suggested method grading and functional disorder of the mitral valve were also discussed in detail. PMID- 2527147 TI - Exercise and posture-related changes of atrial natriuretic factor and cardiac function in diabetes. AB - To study whether the release of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) was altered in diabetic cardiac autonomic neuropathy (CAN), we determined plasma ANF concentrations during exercise and changes of posture in three groups of age- and sex-matched subjects (9 healthy subjects, 7 diabetic patients with CAN, and 7 diabetic patients without CAN). During exercise, plasma ANF concentrations rose threefold (P less than .001), and this increase was similar in the three groups. However, heart-rate response to exercise was impaired in the two groups of diabetic patients (P less than .004 vs. healthy subjects) but was more severely impaired in patients with CAN (P less than .03 vs. patients without CAN). In healthy subjects and patients without CAN, the increases of ANF during exercise correlated significantly with those of heart rate, systolic blood pressure, and rate-pressure product (P less than .01). In patients with CAN, the correlation was found exclusively with heart rate (P less than .01). An increase of ventricular ejection fraction occurred in all groups (P less than .001) but without showing statistical differences between groups. After 30 min of standing, a similar postural drop of plasma ANF concentrations (P less than .002) was observed in all subjects, reflecting preserved sympathetic control of vessels. In conclusion, exercise induces an increase of plasma ANF in diabetic patients with CAN. This increase, occurring similarly to healthy subjects, indicates that autonomic activation plays a minor role in ANF release during exercise. Impaired heart-rate response to exercise in patients without CAN suggests early damage of autonomic function, undetected by conventional rest tests. PMID- 2527148 TI - [Effect of beta-endorphin on the acquired forms of nervous activity in monkeys]. PMID- 2527149 TI - D-2 dopamine receptor activation reduces free [3H]arachidonate release induced by hypophysiotropic peptides in anterior pituitary cells. AB - Dopamine reduces the stimulation of intracellular [3H]arachidonate release produced by the two PRL-stimulating peptides angiotensin-II and TRH. This effect is concentration dependent and is mediated by stimulation of D-2 dopamine receptors. D-2 receptor agonists (bromocriptine, dihydroergocryptine, and dihydroergocristine) inhibit the release of fatty acid induced by angiotensin-II with a potency that parallels their ability to inhibit PRL release in vitro. Conversely, the selective D-2 receptor antagonist L-sulpiride completely prevents dopamine's effect, whereas SCH 23390 (a D-1 receptor antagonist) is ineffective. The inhibitory action of dopamine does not seem to be consequent to an action on the adenylate cyclase-cAMP system, as 8-bromo-cAMP (1 mM) does not affect either basal or dopamine-inhibited [3H]arachidonate release. However, a 24-h pertussis toxin pretreatment significantly reduces the action of dopamine on fatty acid release. Collectively, these results suggest that D-2 dopamine receptor-mediated inhibition of intracellular [3H]arachidonate release requires the action of a GTP binding protein, but is not a consequence of an inhibitory action on cAMP levels. PMID- 2527150 TI - A two-step mechanism by which corticotropin-releasing hormone releases hypothalamic beta-endorphin: the role of vasopressin and G-proteins. AB - It is well established that in the pituitary gland corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) stimulates the release of beta-endorphin (beta-E) via a cAMP-linked mechanism. Studies of the mechanisms underlying the CRH stimulation of beta-E release from rat hypothalamic slices perifused in vitro are reported in this paper. The data indicate that both a cAMP-dependent and non-cAMP-dependent mechanism mediate the action of CRH in the hypothalamus. The presence of a cAMP linked mechanism was suggested by the finding that cholera toxin (0.1-10 nM) and forskolin (2.5 x 10(-6) M), both of which act to raise intracellular cAMP levels, stimulated the release of beta-E. In both cases, no further stimulation was seen upon addition of CRH (10(-8)M). However, it was also found that preincubation of the tissue with pertussis toxin (PTX; 100 ng/ml) prevented both the CRH- and forskolin-stimulated release of beta-E. This indicated that, in addition to the cAMP-linked mechanism, a further messenger system which is connected to a PTX sensitive G-protein may also play a role. The latter observation also implied that a further substance, which utilizes a separate second messenger system, might be involved in the CRH stimulation of beta-E release. In this regard the role of arginine vasopressin (AVP) was investigated due to the known interaction between CRH and AVP in the pituitary gland. AVP (10(-12) to 10(-6)M) itself potently and dose-dependently stimulated beta-E release, producing a maximal increase of 220% above basal levels. The AVP-induced release of beta-E was abolished in PTX-pretreated hypothalami. The apparently obligatory requirement of AVP for the CRH-stimulation of beta-E release was illustrated by the finding that blockade of AVP receptors using the AVP antagonist d(CH2)5 [Tyr(OEt)2,Val4]-AVP almost completely attenuated the CRH-stimulated release of beta-E. Furthermore, in the presence of a high concentration of AVP (10(-6)M) no further stimulation of release was seen with CRH (10(-8)M). These data therefore strongly indicate that CRH acts via the intermediacy of AVP to release beta-E from hypothalamic slices in vitro and that two separate second messenger systems are involved: a cAMP-linked mechanism connected to a cholera toxin-sensitive G-protein (CRH) and a second system linked to a PTX-sensitive G-protein (AVP). PMID- 2527151 TI - Endocrine and antitumor effects of combined treatment with an antiprogestin and antiestrogen or luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone agonist in female rats bearing mammary tumors. AB - Rats bearing mammary tumors induced with dimethylbenzanthracene were treated with the antiprogestin mifepristone (RU486; 10 mg/kg.day, sc), the antiestrogen tamoxifen (400 micrograms/kg.day, sc), LHRH agonists administered by either sc injections (buserelin; 40 micrograms/kg.day) or implant (buserelin or zoladex), or combinations of mifepristone and tamoxifen or LHRH agonists. Single treatment with mifepristone or tamoxifen caused a significant inhibition of tumor growth (90% and 75%, respectively), but no tumor remission. In contrast, single treatment with LHRH agonists caused remission of mammary tumor growth by 50% (injection) or 70% (implant), respectively. Combined treatment with mifepristone and tamoxifen caused additive tumor growth inhibitory effects resulting in the same extent of tumor remission as that observed after treatment with LHRH agonist injections alone. Combination of mifepristone with either manner of LHRH agonist administration resulted in the highest tumor remission (approximately 75%). Significant reductions in cytosolic steroid (estrogen and progesterone) receptor contents of mammary tumors were noted after various treatment modalities. The most pronounced decrements were observed after combined treatment with mifepristone and tamoxifen (residual estrogen receptor; 10%; residual progesterone receptor, 0%). On the other hand, suppression of pituitary-ovarian function was most pronounced after treatment with LHRH agonist implants alone or in combination with mifepristone. It is concluded that combination treatment with an antiprogestin and an antiestrogen or an LHRH agonist may be of great value in the endocrine therapy of breast cancer. PMID- 2527152 TI - Results of a United States and Soviet Union joint project on nervous system effects of microwave radiation. AB - During the course of a formal program of cooperation between the United States and the Soviet Union concerning the biological effects of physical factors in the environment, it was concluded that duplicate projects should be initiated with the general goal of determining the most sensitive and valid test procedures for evaluating the effects of microwave radiation on the central nervous system. This report details an initial step in this direction. Male rats of the Fischer 344 strain were exposed or sham exposed to 10 mW/cm2 continuous wave microwave radiation at 2.45 GHz for a period of 7 hr. Animals were subjected to behavioral, biochemical, or electrophysiological measurements during and/or immediately after exposure. Behavioral tests used were passive avoidance and activity in an open field. Biochemical measurements were ATPase (Na+, K+; Mg2+, Ca2+) and K+ alkaline phosphatase activities. Electrophysiological measurements consisted of EEG frequency analysis. Neither group observed a significant effect of microwave irradiation on open field activity. Both groups observed changes in variability of the data obtained using the passive avoidance procedure, but not in the same parameters. The U.S. group, but not the USSR group, found significantly less Na+,K+-ATPase activity in the microwave-exposed animals compared to the sham exposed animals. Both groups found incidences of statistically significant effects in the power spectral analysis of EEG frequency, but not at the same frequency. The failure of both groups to substantiate the results of the other reinforces our contention that such duplicate projects are important and necessary. PMID- 2527153 TI - Effects of physical exercise and anti-G suit inflation on atrial natriuretic factor plasma level. AB - The purpose of this study was to measure the effect of enhanced venous return on atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) secretion during exercise and upright posture and the consequences on renin angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS) activity. Six healthy male subjects were submitted to four different procedures. All procedures were performed in the same position, i.e. riding on a support with legs hanging. Two procedures were performed at rest: the subjects were studied after a 25-min rest in this position, with and without the lower limb fitted with an anti-G suit inflated to 60 mmHg. Two procedures were carried out with physical exercise; arm cranking was performed in the same position with and without the anti-G suit inflated to 60 mmHg. Venous blood was collected before and after each procedure in order to measure plasma ANF, plasma aldosterone concentration (PAC), plasma renin activity (PRA), corticotrophin (ACTH) and catecholamine level. The data mean +/- SEM showed that the ANF plasma level decreased significantly (p less than 0.05) from 32.5 +/- 4 to 28 +/- 6 pg.ml-1 after a 20-min rest in the upright posture, whereas this effect was absolished with anti-G suit inflation. Physical exercise with and without the anti-G suit increased the ANF level above control values (60 +/- 13.6 pg.ml-1 and 53 +/- 13 pg.ml-1): anti-G suit inflation had no significant effect. PRA increased after rest in an upright posture and during physical exercise; anti-G suit inflation abolished this increase in both conditions.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527154 TI - Beta-endorphin/beta-lipotropin release and gonadotropin secretion after acute exercise in physically conditioned males. AB - beta-endorphin (beta-EP) and beta-lipotropin (beta-LPH) concentrations were measured in the basal state and after acute exercise for 15 min or until exhaustion in 6 physically conditioned male volunteers. Serum concentrations of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), testosterone and prolactin were also measured in the basal state. In addition, the concentrations of the gonadotropins (LH and FSH) were determined after exercise and the gonadotropin response to gonadotropin releasing hormone was assessed before and after exercise. The data show that acute exercise stimulates the release of both beta-EP and beta-LPH which return to base-line levels within 60 min after exercise. This is in contrast to our previously described results in physically unconditioned male volunteers in whom only beta-LPH release was noted after exercise. Serum LH concentrations declined after exercise reaching nadir values between 60 to 150 min after exercise. As we previously reported in physically unconditioned male volunteers, serum FSH concentrations did not change with exercise and the gonadotropin response to LRH stimulation was uninfluenced by exercise. Serum testosterone and prolactin concentration were within the normal range for healthy adult males. We speculate that the difference in beta-EP release with exercise in physically conditioned and unconditioned males represents a difference in processing of the opioid precursor molecule (pro opiomelanocortin, POMC) in the two groups. PMID- 2527155 TI - Additive effects of enoximone and nitroprusside in unstable chronic heart failure. AB - In the present study, the safety and efficacy of the combined administration of intravenous nitroprusside and oral enoximone, an experimental compound with phosphodiesterase inhibitory properties, were evaluated. Ten patients with unstable chronic heart failure maintained on digitalis and diuretics were selected to receive enoximone because of their poor response to intravenous nitroprusside. For a mean peak dose of 115 micrograms min-1 nitroprusside, cardiac index increased from 1.8 +/- 0.4 to 2.0 +/- 0.4 l min-1 m-2, while pulmonary artery diastolic pressure and mean right atrial pressure decreased from 29 +/- 6 to 24 +/- 5 and from 15 +/- 6 to 11 +/- 3 mmHg respectively; mean arterial pressure and heart rate were unchanged. The addition of 1.6 mg kg-1 oral enoximone t.i.d. to nitroprusside resulted in a substantial improvement of cardiac function: cardiac index increased further to 2.8 +/- 0.5 l min-1 m-2 (P less than 0.001), pulmonary artery diastolic pressure and right atrial pressure decreased to 18 +/- 5 and 7 +/- 3 mmHg (P less than 0.01), respectively, while mean arterial pressure rose from 90 +/- 11 mmHg to 95 +/- 0 mmHg (P less than 0.05); heart rate was unchanged. The salutary haemodynamic response to combined nitroprusside-enoximone therapy persisted for more than 32 h, and cardiac performance remained improved on enoximone for a further 8 h despite the discontinuation of nitroprusside. No serious side-effects or changes in the arrhythmia profile were observed. The addition of oral enoximone to nitroprusside has beneficial haemodynamic effects in unstable chronic heart failure. PMID- 2527156 TI - Morphologic and functional characterization of human peripheral blood T cells expressing the T cell receptor gamma/delta. AB - The morphologic and functional characteristics of cells freshly isolated from human peripheral blood and bearing a T cell receptor (TcR) gamma/delta were analyzed. Cell preparations highly enriched for TcR gamma/delta+ cells were obtained by treatment of E rosette-forming lymphocytes with anti-CD4 and anti-CD8 monoclonal antibodies (mAb) and complement. These preparations consisted of 64 82% TcR gamma/delta+ lymphocytes, as indicated by the sum of cells reacting with the BB3 and A13 mAb which define two distinct, nonoverlapping, TcR gamma/delta+ cell subsets in the peripheral blood. TcR gamma/delta cells were able to form conjugates with the natural killer-sensitive K-562 and with the natural killer resistant HL-60-R tumor cell lines. The cytochemical localization of lysosomal acid hydrolases showed that 95%-98% of the cells in the TcR gamma/delta+ preparations had the morphologic features of granular lymphocytes. Moreover, electron microscopy analyses showed that TcR gamma/delta+ cells had electron dense granules dispersed in the cytoplasm and a variety of smooth vesicles, a morphology identical to that of other CD3- or CD3+ granular lymphocyte subsets. Freshly isolated TcR gamma/delta+ cells were unable to lyse K-562 and natural killer-resistant targets, such as HL-60-R and P815. However, low levels of target cell lysis were observed upon triggering of the effectors by anti-CD3 TcR mAb or by lectin. After short-term culture with interleukin 2, TcR gamma/delta+ cells acquired a strong cytolytic activity against K-562 and HL-60-R target cells in the absence of triggering stimuli, and also displayed high levels of cytolytic activity against P815 in the presence of anti-CD3/TcR mAb. PMID- 2527157 TI - Analysis of HLA antigens on germ cells in human semen. AB - Nucleated cells other than sperm (NCOS) were isolated from human semen by centrifugation on a Ficoll density gradient. Using tissue-specific monoclonal antibodies (mAb) greater than 99% of the NCOS were found to be sperm cell precursors (SpP). These cells were tested for the expression of class I and II (DR, DP and DQ) HLA antigens by using specific mAb. The anti-HLA class I and II and anti-beta 2-microglobulin mAb reacted with less than 1% of the NCOS. This was demonstrated by indirect immunofluorescence microscopy and fluorescence-activated cell sorter analysis. These results were similar to those obtained from testing germ cells in frozen sections of normal adult testis using the same panel of mAb. In mixed lymphocyte-NCOS cultures, the SpP failed to stimulate allogeneic lymphocytes even when different concentrations of cells were used. These results indicate little or no expression of HLA class I and II including the HLA-D (T cell-defined) determinant on the SpP, a phenomenon which could be of biological importance. PMID- 2527158 TI - Specificity of human T lymphocytes expressing a gamma/delta T cell antigen receptor. Recognition of a polymorphic determinant of HLA class I molecules by a gamma/delta clone. AB - Alloreactive clones expressing T cell receptor (TcR) gamma/delta were derived by limiting dilution from CD3+ CD4- CD8- WT31- populations stimulated in allogeneic mixed lymphocyte culture. These clones specifically lysed phytohemagglutinin induced blast cells bearing the stimulating alloantigens, whereas they had no effect on autologous or allogeneic unrelated target cells. Analysis of the reactivity with monoclonal antibodies (mAb) specific for two different subsets of TcR gamma/delta (BB3 and delta-TCS-1) showed that five out of nine clones were BB3+, whereas the remaining reacted with delta-TCS-1. Therefore, we can conclude that both subsets of TcR gamma/delta+ cells are able to specifically recognize and lyse allogeneic cells. mAb directed against the CD3-TcR gamma/delta molecular complex strongly inhibited the specific cytolytic activity of TcR gamma/delta+ clones, whereas they had no effect on the lysis of the natural killer-sensitive K 562 target cells mediated by the same clones. An alloreactive delta-TCS-1+ clone (LM12) was further characterized for its specificity. LM12 clone had been derived after stimulation in mixed lymphocyte culture against donor M.M. (HLA typing: Aw68, 24; B35, w55; DR1, 7). The analysis of a large panel of phytohemagglutinin induced target cells revealed that only the HLA-A24+ target cells were lysed. The direct evidence that the A24 molecule represented the restriction element was provided by experiments using A24-transfected murine P815 target cells. Thus, clone LM12 efficiently lysed A24-transfected P815 cells, but not the same cells untransfected or transfected with the Cw3 gene. Therefore, it appears that polymorphic determinants of class I major histocompatibility complex molecules can be the target of TcR gamma/delta+ alloreactive cell recognition. PMID- 2527159 TI - Expression of disulfide-linked and non-disulfide-linked forms of the T cell receptor gamma/delta heterodimer in human intestinal intraepithelial lymphocytes. AB - Immunohistochemistry has been used to investigate disulfide- and non-disulfide linked forms of the T cell receptor gamma/delta heterodimer (TcR gamma/delta) in blood and intestinal epithelium of normal human small intestine, intestine of patients with untreated coeliac disease (in whom T cells expressing TcR gamma/delta are disproportionately raised), intestine of patients with tropical malabsorption, and in the human fetus. In blood from adult volunteers, 90% of T cells expressing TcR gamma/delta use the disulfide-linked form. In contrast in the epithelium in normal small intestine, coeliac disease and tropical malabsorption, most of the T cells expressing TcR gamma/delta use the non disulfide-linked form. This is especially prominent in untreated coeliac disease where the increase in TcR gamma/delta T cells is mainly restricted to those using the non-disulfide-linked form. In human fetal small intestinal epithelium, however, only cells using the disulfide-linked form are present. These variations in expression of different forms of TcR gamma/delta in the gut epithelium in different conditions suggests that antigen, or some as yet undefined factor may determine the frequency of each subpopulation. PMID- 2527160 TI - Guanabenz, guanochlor, guanoxan and idazoxan bind with high affinity to non adrenergic sites in pig kidney membranes. AB - [3H]Idazoxan is a labelled ligand that is frequently used to study alpha 2 adrenoceptors in the central nervous system. In pig kidney membranes, [3H]idazoxan labelled high-affinity binding sites (Kd = 1.5 nM) that were not alpha 2-adrenoceptors and which recognized clonidine with low affinity. This new class of binding sites was recognized by amiloride derivatives; however, it is not likely that these sites are the well-known targets of amiloride in the kidney: the Na+/H+ exchanger and the epithelium Na+ channel. These binding sites may be the normal target of a series of imidazolidines derivatives (guanabenz, guanochlor, guanoxan), which are known for their antihypertensive properties. PMID- 2527161 TI - Median raphe, but not dorsal raphe, application of the 5-HT1A agonist 8-OH-DPAT stimulates rat motor activity. AB - Local application of the selective 5-HT1A agonist 8-hydroxy-2-(di-n propylamino)tetralin (8-OH-DPAT) in the median raphe of rats caused locomotor stimulation. In contrast, dorsal raphe application of the compound induced flat body posture, which was discontinuous and not dose-dependent, and therefore distinct from that characteristic for postsynaptic 5-HT receptor-mediated behaviour. Injection of 8-OH-DPAT into the dorsal raphe or median raphe caused neither forepaw treading nor head-weaving; stiff tail and sniffing occurred inconsistently. By activating somatodendritic 5-HT1A autoreceptors in the median raphe, 8-OH-DPAT may disinhibit locomotor-enforcing neural pathways that receive 5-HT afferents from this nucleus. The data suggest that median raphe and dorsal raphe 5-HT neurons have different roles in motor control. PMID- 2527162 TI - Immunoelectron microscopical examination of the surface distribution of opsin in rat rod photoreceptor cells. AB - The distribution of the visual pigment protein opsin in postnatal day 8 and adult rat retinal photoreceptor cells was studied using several well characterized monoclonal antibodies against rhodopsin and a sensitive, modified colloidal gold technique. Distribution of opsin was studied in intact tissue, explant cultures and freshly dissociated cell preparation. At PN8 labeling was seen in the plasma membrane overlying the cell body, inner and outer segment. Adult retinas still showed heavy labeling of the cell body and outer segment, but reduced labeling of the inner segment surface. Semi-quantitative estimates of colloidal gold particles bound indicated a ratio of 3-20 times more particles per unit length in the outer vs. the inner segment, depending on tissue age, preparation and antibody. Together with the subcellular localization of other photoreceptor plasma membrane proteins, these data reveal a complex system of membrane domains into which different protein components are segregated. PMID- 2527163 TI - A 16 kDa protein co-isolating with gap junctions from brain tissue belonging to the class of proteolipids of the vacuolar H+-ATPases. AB - A 16 kDa protein from an enriched gap junction preparation was isolated from bovine brain tissues. N-terminal amino acid microsequencing of the first 20 amino acids showed a complete homology with a recently published sequence of a proteolipid from a vacuolar H+-ATPase from chromaffin granules. Incubation of the brain gap junction preparation with 14C-N,N'-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide showed a significant binding of this compound to the 16 kDa protein, indicating that a proton binding site also occurs within that particular protein. The data suggest that this 16 kDa protein, which has also been described in gap junction preparations from various other tissues, belongs to the proton transporting ATPase. PMID- 2527164 TI - Cloning of a DNA region of Actinoplanes teichomyceticus conferring teicoplanin resistance. AB - Teicoplanin is a glycopeptide antibiotic, produced by Actinoplanes teichomyceticus, active against Gram positive bacteria and recently introduced into clinical practice. It blocks cell wall biosynthesis by inhibiting peptidoglycan polymerization. The mechanism(s) of resistance of the producer strains of this class of antibiotics have not yet been characterized. We have constructed a genomic bank of A. teichomyceticus in Streptomyces lividans. A clone from this bank, PTR168, was able to confer resistance to teicoplanin on its sensitive host. The restriction map of plasmid pTR168 and the hybridization pattern to A. teichomyceticus DNA were determined; we have also studied the mechanism of this resistance which seems correlated with a reduced binding of the antibiotic to the cell wall. PMID- 2527166 TI - Identification of a mutation in Escherichia coli F1-ATPase beta-subunit conferring resistance to aurovertin. AB - A mutation conferring aurovertin resistance on Escherichia coli F1-ATPase was identified as R398----H in the F1 beta-subunit. Beta-subunit from the mutant does not bind aurovertin; therefore our results suggest the region of sequence around residue beta-398 is involved in aurovertin binding. Since nucleotide and aurovertin binding to isolated beta-subunit are not mutually exclusive, the data further suggest that the beta-subunit catalytic nucleotide-binding domain does not include residue 398. The mutation prevented aurovertin inhibition of ATPase at pH 6 and 8.5, implying charge on the arginine side-chain is not a major determinant of aurovertin binding or that the pK of R398 is shifted due to a peculiar environment. The equivalent residue is usually arginine in F1 beta subunits of different species; notably in the aurovertin-insensitive thermophilic bacterium PS3 F1-ATPase, this residue is phenylalanine. PMID- 2527165 TI - Inhibition of poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation does not prevent lymphocyte entry into the cell cycle. AB - The enzyme poly(ADP-ribosyl)transferase (ADPRT) becomes activated soon after a mitogenic stimulus is applied to lymphocyte cultures. It has also been reported that ADPRT inhibitors prevent cell proliferation when added to cultures at the same time as the mitogen. While this has been ascribed to the need to seal physiologically present DNA strand breaks before cells enter S phase, the presence of DNA strand breaks in quiescent human lymphocytes has been recently questioned. We demonstrate here that non-toxic concentrations of ADPRT inhibitors do not affect lymphocyte blastization and proliferation, as measured by thymidine incorporation and cytofluorimetry. We therefore suggest that ADPRT activation is required for late functions which are not needed for cell cycle progression. PMID- 2527167 TI - Probing the nucleotide-binding site of sarcoplasmic reticulum (Ca2+-Mg2+)-ATPase with anti-fluorescein antibodies. AB - Antibodies raised against fluorescein were unable to bind to the fluorophore when bound at the nucleotide-binding site of native (Ca2+-Mg2+)-ATPase, as judged by fluorescence quenching assays or competitive ELISAs, but were able to bind when the ATPase was denatured. Indirect ELISAs, in which native and denatured FITC ATPase were used to coat ELISA plates, were unable to detect the difference in accessibility of the fluorescein bound to the native and denatured ATPase. These results indicate that the nucleotide-binding site is relatively inaccessible in the native structure, even though fluorescence energy transfer studies [(1987) Biochim. Biophys. Acta 897, 207-216] indicate that this site must be close to the surface of the ATPase. In addition the results suggest that the indirect ELISA method may be of limited value in probing the accessibility of epitopes using antibodies. PMID- 2527168 TI - Conformational change in beef-heart mitochondrial F1 ATPase to ATP synthesis mode induced by dimethylsulfoxide and ATP revealed by sulfhydryl group labeling. AB - Treatment of beef-heart mitochondrial F1 ATPase with 5,5'-dithiobis(2 nitrobenzoic acid) (DTNB) results in the incorporation of 1 mol DTNB/mol F1 without loss of ATPase activity. Incorporation is not prevented by ATP. Labeling occurs predominantly on an alpha-subunit, but also with a significant degree of modification of gamma- and epsilon-subunits. It is suggested that the modified sulfhydryl groups of the alpha-, gamma- and epsilon-subunits are in proximity so that only one can be modified by the reagent. Guanidine hydrochloride (0.3 M) dissociates F1 into its subunits. Eight sulfhydryl groups/mol F1 can be modified under these conditions. Guanidine hydrochloride does not cause dissociation of F1 in the presence of 30% (v/v) dimethylsulfoxide (Me2SO) and 2 mM ATP. Under these conditions a second molecule of DTNB is incorporated into F1 with nearly equal modification of the epsilon-subunit and an alpha-subunit. It is proposed that Me2SO and ATP induce a more stable conformation of F1, which is resistant to dissociation by guanidine hydrochloride, but in which the site of reaction with DTNB is made more accessible by the guanidine hydrochloride to permit the simultaneous modification of an alpha-subunit and the epsilon-subunit. This conformation is probably that which occurs during ATP synthesis by F1 in the presence of Me2SO. PMID- 2527169 TI - [Adaptation of animals to hypoxic-hypercapnic effects under desympathization conditions]. AB - The reserpine-induced blockade of the animal sympathetic nervous system disturbed the adaptive process to hypoxia and hypoxia combined with hypercapnia, eliciting in the long run a more pronounced myocardial hypertrophy in comparison with intact animals. PMID- 2527170 TI - [Function of the endogenous opioid system in hypoxic hypoxia]. PMID- 2527171 TI - Glucosyltransferase activity in mitochondria. Biosynthesis of glucosyl-phosphoryl dolichol in inner mitochondrial membranes. AB - 1. Inner mitochondrial membranes are able to transfer [14C]glucose from UDP [14C]glucose onto dolichylmonophosphate. 2. Synthesis of dolichyl-phosphoryl glucose takes place only in the presence of exogenous dolichyl-monophosphate loaded into phospholipid vesicles. 3. Neutral phospholipids interact preferentially with the membrane-bound enzyme. The effect of phospholipids is not related to the length of fatty acid chains but a correlation between the activation and the degree of unsaturation of fatty acid chains has been found. 4. This enzyme required divalent cations for activity. Such a requirement might be related to lipid-protein interactions which favour a suitable conformation of glycosyltransferase. PMID- 2527172 TI - Effects of Tween 80 and sodium fluoride on extracellular glucosyltransferase production and membrane lipids of Streptococcus mutans. AB - 1. Both Tween 80 and sodium fluoride significantly enhanced total extracellular glucosyltransferase activities of Streptococcus mutans. 2. Water-insoluble and water-soluble glucan formation were uniformly increased by Tween 80, whereas fluoride stimulated only water-soluble glucan formation. 3. Elevated glucan formation was due to an increase in enzymes secreted from bacterial cells. 4. Fatty acid composition and phospholipid content in bacterial membrane were changed by Tween 80, although sodium fluoride scarcely showed these changes. 5. Comparative results suggest that modulation of membrane lipids participates in mutansucrase production but not in dextransucrase production of S. mutans. PMID- 2527173 TI - beta-N-acetylhexosaminidase isoenzymes during chick embryo development. AB - 1. Two forms (I and II) with acidic pH optima and a neutral form of beta hexosaminidase has been separated by DEAE-cellulose chromatography and characterized in skin and lung of 7, 9, 11, 14 day chick embryos and 1 day old chicken. 2. Forms I and II are similar to hexosaminidase A and B for their behaviour on DEAE-cellulose chromatography, Concanavalin A-Sepharose column and thermal stability. 3. Neutral form has a neutral pH optimum and higher molecular weight and a more acidic I. P. than forms I and II, a low beta-N acetylgalactosaminidase activity and it is not bound by a Concanavalin A Sepharose column and in that resemble hexosaminidase C and/or other neutral hexosaminidases. 4. We have found differences in the percentage of neutral form and in the specific activities of the extracts in the skin in different stages of development. 5. No significant differences were observed in the lung. PMID- 2527174 TI - Molecular aspects of estrogen receptor activation factor (E-RAF) function. AB - The estrogen receptor activation factor (E-RAF)-mediated binding of the receptor estrogen complex to uterine nuclei was found to involve at least two classes of nuclear macromolecules: (1) the DNA, and (2) a proteinacious component. Evidences are presented to show that at least a portion of (2) is represented by the nuclear RNA polymerases. The receptor-estrogen complex associated in vivo with the nuclear RNA polymerases existed in two distinct forms which sedimented at 3.8 S and 4.8 S on sucrose density gradients. Almost 2/3 of the total radioactivity was associated with the 3.8 S species. Saturation kinetics of the two forms showed that while the 4.8 S form displayed characteristics similar to the classical type I nuclear binding site, the features displayed by the 3.8 S form were closely similar to those of the nuclear type II site. The 4.8 S species is a DNA binding form while the 3.8 S form is non-DNA binding. Anti-E-RAF IIA IgG cross-reacted with both the binding components. Goat uterine E-RAF I, IIA and IIB were purified to homogeneity as described earlier. While E-RAF IIA and IIB destabilized the native DNA structure and induced separation of the DNA strands, E-RAF I performed the opposite function. The reactions required the presence of ATP; all three of them displayed DNA-dependent ATPase activity. In an in vitro transcription system which contained purified RNA polymerase B (rat liver enzyme) and goat uterine DNA, E-RAF IIA and IIB enhanced transcription 7-fold over the control while E-RAF I totally suppressed the transcription process, irrespective of whether it was stimulated earlier by the other two E-RAF forms or not. This E RAF property remained unchanged even after its association with the 4 S receptor estrogen complex forming 5 S complex. PMID- 2527175 TI - [Malignant epithelial tumors of the ovary. Current diagnostic and therapeutic aspects]. PMID- 2527176 TI - [Progressive changes in the lymphocyte subpopulations and the clinical picture in 2 brothers with familial dilated cardiomyopathy]. AB - We report two brothers, aged 22 and 34, affected by dilated cardiomyopathy. At the first examination both patients were in NYHA functional class I. Their echocardiograms showed dilated and hypokinetic ventricles. Their clinical condition remained stable for three years, during which the peripheral immunophenotyping of T-lymphocyte subsets showed T-helper/T-suppressor ratio values lower than normal (normal value for our laboratory = 1.64 +/- 0.53) due both to low T-helper and to high T-suppressor subsets. Subsequently, the clinical condition of both patients deteriorated, exercise tolerance decreased and echocardiographic ventricular diameters increased. T-helper/T-suppressor ratio progressively increased from the initial values of 0.8 and 0.42 to 2.5 and 2.24, respectively. A few months later, both patients died, one because of refractory heart failure and the other one suddenly. Histologic examination of myocardial tissue in one patient showed a diffuse necrotizing disease involving myocytes with focal lymphocyte infiltrates, granulation tissue and endocardial thrombosis. The reported data underline the importance of genetic and familial factors in the pathogenesis and evolution of dilated cardiomyopathies. The increasing T-helper/T suppressor ratio value which matched the deterioration of the clinical status, is proposed as a useful evolutive and prognostic marker. PMID- 2527177 TI - [Changes in the lymphocyte subpopulations and the clinical picture in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy]. PMID- 2527178 TI - Retrieval technique of a PTCA guidewire. AB - A report is made of a case study where a non-surgical technique was used to remove a broken floppy percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) guidewire. The technique involved the use of a "lasso" to successfully retrieve the broken wire from the left main artery and into the aorta. PMID- 2527179 TI - [Guidelines for return to work of patients with infarction and coronary disease treated by angioplasty and/or by-pass]. PMID- 2527180 TI - The effect of attachment site mutations on strand exchange in bacteriophage lambda site-specific recombination. AB - Recombination of phage lambda attachment sites occurs by sequential exchange of the DNA strands at two specific locations. The first exchange produces a Holliday structure, and the second resolves it to recombinant products. Heterology for base substitution mutations in the region between the two strand exchange points (the overlap region) reduces recombination; some mutations inhibit the accumulation of Holliday structures, others inhibit their resolution to recombinant products. To see if heterology also alters the location of the strand exchange points, we determined the segregation pattern of three single and one multiple base pair substitution mutations of the overlap region in crosses with wild type sites. The mutations are known to differ in the severity of their recombination defect and in the stage of strand exchange they affect. The three single mutations behaved similarly: each segregated into both products of recombination, and the two products of a single crossover were frequently nonreciprocal in the overlap region. In contrast, the multiple mutation preferentially segregated into one of the two recombinant products, and the two products of a single crossover appeared to be fully reciprocal. The simplest explanation of the segregation pattern of the single mutations is that strand exchanges occur at the normal locations to produce recombinants with mismatched base pairs that are frequently repaired. The segregation pattern of the multiple mutation is consistent with the view that both strand exchanges usually occur to one side of the mutant site. We suggest that the segregation pattern of a particular mutation is determined by which stage of strand exchange it inhibits and by the severity of the inhibition. PMID- 2527181 TI - Premeiotic change of nucleolus organizer size in Neurospora. AB - We have investigated the heritability of nucleolus organizer region (NOR) size in Neurospora crassa. By pulsed-field gel electrophoresis, we followed in genetic crosses the size of the normal or "terminal" NORs and the size of a small interstitial NOR. Tetrad analysis revealed that changes in NOR size occur frequently in the sexual phase. Moreover, most size changes occurred in the period between fertilization and meiosis, although some changes occurred during and after meiosis. Unexpectedly, increases and decreases in NOR size were not equally frequent: decreases were more common. The NOR size changes generated during meiosis were not the result of unequal crossing over between NORs on homologous chromosomes. PMID- 2527182 TI - [Expression of the Bacillus pumilus chloramphenicol acetyltransferase gene in Bacillus subtilis, achieved by the P-R-promotor of phage lambda]. AB - The possibility of expression of the Bacillus pumilus chloramphenicol acetyltransferase gene (cat) in Bacillus subtilis from the pR promoter of phage lambda has been investigated in this work. For this purpose, the plasmid pPL703 carrying the B. pumilus DNA segment with the cat gene lacking promoter has been combined with the plasmid pBM21 containing the pR promoter. The recombinant plasmid pEL1 is capable of providing the 60 mkg/ml chloramphenicol resistance in Bac. subtilis cells. PMID- 2527184 TI - [Physiologic and hygienic evaluation of the work of operators of mechanical milking]. AB - Physiologic and hygienic observational data on working conditions of operators of mechanical milking at milking sites of modern milk complexes demonstrated the impact of physical load on workers' capacity for work and health status. Sanitation measures aimed at improvement of working conditions and disease prevention of operators of mechanical milking were developed. PMID- 2527183 TI - [Hygienic characteristics of working conditions and their effect on the functional state of workers engaged in the manufacture of reinforced concrete products]. AB - The study of the impact of working conditions on body functioning state of those engaged in the production of reinforced concrete products showed that these working conditions were characterized by a number of unfavourable factors, complex occupational aerosol and industrial microclimate being the leading ones. It was pointed out that working conditions affected the degree and the character of shifts in workers' body functioning state. Climatic and geographical characteristics also had some influence on the parameters of occupational microclimate and workers' body functioning state. PMID- 2527186 TI - [Problems of occupational hygiene in present-day processing of hydrogen sulfide containing gases and hydrocarbon condensates]. PMID- 2527185 TI - [Problem of the evaluation of working conditions and morbidity of workers in copper, zinc and lead industries]. AB - The study of working conditions at all the stages of copper, zinc, and lead production showed that workers' morbidity was affected by the chemical factors, involving complex polymetallic dust and sulphur dioxide, and also by unfavourable meteorologic conditions and elevated noise levels. PMID- 2527187 TI - [An information test as a method of increasing the effectiveness and quality of pre-trip medical examinations of locomotive engineers]. PMID- 2527188 TI - [Various approaches to the study of the late effects of occupational diseases]. PMID- 2527189 TI - [Various problems of occupational hygiene in gold mines in relation to the introduction of new technology in high-altitude Armenian S.S.R]. PMID- 2527190 TI - Non-equilibrium pH gradient electrophoresis (NEPHGE) on ultrathin polyacrylamide gels containing separators: improved erythrocyte phosphoglucomutase (PGM) and esterase D (EsD) diagnosis in red cell lysates and bloodstains. AB - Two rapid and reliable electrophoretic techniques for PGM1 and EsD typing on ultrathin polyacrylamide gels are described. They have been based on non equilibrium pH gradient electrophoresis and on the addition of chemical spacers (EPPS for PGM1 and HEPES for EsD) to the gel mixture. PMID- 2527191 TI - Combined hepatitis B immune globulin and vaccine for postexposure prophylaxis of accidental hepatitis B virus infection in hemodialysis staff members: comparison with immune globulin without vaccine in historical controls. AB - Twenty-three staff members serving in a hemodialysis unit were exposed accidentally to needlestick contaminated with blood containing hepatitis B surface antigen and hepatitis B e antigen, as well as high levels of DNA polymerase activity (greater than 100 cpm). They received hepatitis B vaccine (20 micrograms) simultaneously with hepatitis B immune globulin (5 ml, 200 IU per ml) within 48 hr after the exposure, and the vaccination was repeated at 1 and 3 months. The protective efficacy was compared with that in a past study in the same unit in which 33 members were given hepatitis B immune globulin alone within 48 hr after the exposure to blood with similarly high levels of DNA polymerase activity. No differences were noted in age or sex between the staff members who were vaccinated and those who were not, nor were there any differences between their inocula in the titers of hepatitis B virus markers. During 12 months after the accident, only one (4%) of the 23 vaccinated members contracted hepatitis B virus infection, at a frequency significantly lower than 11 (33%) of the 33 members who did not receive vaccine (p less than 0.02). These results indicate that hepatitis B vaccine, when given in combination with hepatitis B immune globulin, is efficacious for postexposure immunoprophylaxis of accidental infection. PMID- 2527192 TI - Passive-active immunoprophylaxis after percutaneous exposure to hepatitis B virus. PMID- 2527193 TI - Combined hepatitis B immune globulin and vaccine for postexposure prophylaxis of hepatitis B virus infection. PMID- 2527195 TI - The role of CD4+ lymphocytes in the activation of non-specific suppressor cells by antigen. AB - Tetanus toxoid (TT) and hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) can suppress lectin induced responses. The suppression induced by TT is dose-dependent and can also down-regulate the induction of a blastogenic response by anti-CD3 and anti-CD4 monoclonals. In addition, TT can dampen the blastogenic response induced by phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) and anti-CD3. The cellular mechanism involved in the turning off of the blastogenic response was investigated by transferring cells treated for 5 days with TT to freshly obtained syngeneic cells and stimulation with PHA. The response of cultures that had received TT-treated cells was significantly lower than of those that had received cells treated with medium only. The removal of CD4+ cells at the induction phase of the suppression reversed the suppression, whereas the elimination of most CD8+ cells had no effect. We propose that CD4+ cells together with monocytes can dampen the specific and non-specific blastogenic responses. PMID- 2527194 TI - Human dendritic cells stimulate allogeneic T cells in the absence of IL-1. AB - Dendritic cells (DC), which express high-density HLA class II molecules, stimulate strong primary allogeneic T-cell responses via an interaction of the T cell receptor with major histocompatibility complex (MHC) antigens (signal 1). It is not yet clear whether they also provide a second stimulus to the responding T cell in the form of the cytokine interleukin-1 (IL-1). To clarify this point, the ability of purified human tonsil DC to produce IL-1 and to stimulate allogeneic T cells was tested. No intracellular IL-1 alpha or beta was identified in DC comparable to that readily demonstrated in monocytes, and IL-1 release from lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated DC was not detected in either a biological assay for IL-1 or an ELISA assay for IL-1 beta. Furthermore, strong stimulation of allogeneic T lymphocytes by DC in the mixed leucocyte reaction (MLR) was noted to occur in the absence of IL-1 production, and this stimulation was not inhibited by polyclonal antisera to IL-1 alpha and IL-1 beta, which were known to inhibit IL-1-mediated thymocyte proliferation. Other HLA-class II-positive cell populations, namely peripheral blood monocytes and B cells, purified by methods which avoided DC contamination, were unable to stimulate allogeneic T cells with or without supplementary IL-1. We conclude that DC are very effective stimulators of T lymphocytes and that IL-1 is not required as a second signal for allogeneic T-cell responses. PMID- 2527196 TI - IgE-mediated release of rat mast cell protease II, beta-hexosaminidase and leukotriene C4 from cultured bone marrow-derived rat mast cells. AB - Functional characteristics of cultured bone marrow-derived rat mast cells (BMMC) were studied. BMMC were shown to release in a time- and dose-dependent fashion the mucosal mast cell (MMC)-specific enzyme, rat mast cell protease II (RMCPII), following IgE-mediated activation in vitro. RMCPII release was temporally associated with that of the mast cell granule-derived enzyme, beta-hexosaminidase (beta-hex). Release of the pre-formed granule constituents, RMCPII and beta-hex, was associated with the generation of the membrane-derived lipid mediator, leukotriene C4 (LTC4) and, in older cultures, substantial amounts were generated (25.2 ng/10(6) BMMC). Absolute amounts of RMCPII, beta-hex and LTC4 released were dependent upon the age of the BMMC. These results extend our previous observations on the staining properties and protease content of rat BMMC and provide evidence that these cells are functionally, as well as histochemically, analogous to the MMC subset, which is so prominent during intestinal nematode infections in rats. PMID- 2527197 TI - Immune response gene control of the mouse antibody responses to human creatine kinase-MM and the lactate dehydrogenase-1 enzymes. PMID- 2527198 TI - Complexity, polymorphism, and recombination of mouse T-cell receptor alpha gene families. AB - Genomic DNA from a large panel of inbred strains of mice were hybridized sequentially with 15 V alpha, 2 V delta, 1 C alpha, and 1 C delta probes. Most of the V alpha probes detected a high degree of polymorphism and have allowed the definition of five mouse T-cell receptor alpha (Tcr alpha) haplotypes. One of these haplotypes (Tcre alpha) appears to arise from a recombination between the Tcrb alpha and Tcra alpha haplotypes, the latter being the most frequently found in the conventional inbred strains. This recombination event clearly indicates that the members of at least 11 V alpha sub-families are not closely linked but highly interspersed with one another on chromosome 14. PMID- 2527199 TI - Low dose atrial natriuretic factor in primary aldosteronism: renal, hemodynamic, and vascular effects. AB - Whether atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) plays a physiological role in primary aldosteronism has yet to be determined. In the present study, the renal, hemodynamic, humoral, and vascular effects of a synthetic (WY-47663) human analogue were studied in five water-loaded (15 ml H2O/kg) patients with adenomatous primary aldosteronism, a salt-sensitive, low renin, volume-expanded syndrome. ANF was infused for 3 hours at a low rate (0.005 micrograms/kg/min), which approximately doubled circulating immunoreactive ANF. Glomerular filtration rate and renal blood flow (inulin and para-aminohippurate clearance) remained stable, but sodium excretion increased significantly suggesting a dissociation between renal hemodynamics and natriuresis as well as a direct inhibitory effect on tubular sodium reabsorption by ANF. Intra-arterial diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, forearm blood flow (plethysmographic method), and arterial plasma norepinephrine did not change, but systolic blood pressure declined and hematocrit rose suggesting plasma volume contraction by ANF. Plasma aldosterone levels were unchanged indicating a loss of ANF-mediated aldosterone inhibition, possibly related to qualitative or quantitative alterations of ANF receptors in tumoral adrenal tissue. Infusion of the analogue into the brachial artery was at a rate of 0.005 micrograms/dl forearm tissue/min x 30 minutes, which also doubled local immunoreactive venous ANF concentrations and vasodilated forearm arterioles. These data suggest a physiological role for ANF in modulating body fluid volume even in human primary aldosteronism. PMID- 2527200 TI - Effect of plasma sodium on aldosterone secretion during angiotensin II stimulation in normal humans. AB - Studies were carried out in normal male subjects (n = 6, age 20-35 years) to determine the interaction of angiotensin II and plasma sodium on aldosterone secretion. These relations were quantified by elevation of plasma sodium with an infusion of 5% sodium chloride (4 ml/kg/30 min i.v.) with measurements of plasma aldosterone, atrial natriuretic factor (ANF), and arginine vasopressin (AVP) over 3 hours. Two hours before sodium chloride infusion, an intravenous infusion of angiotensin II was begun at 0.5 or 5.0 ng/kg/min and continued throughout the study. Plasma potassium was maintained constant by the addition of potassium to the infusate. NaCl/KCl infusion raised plasma sodium 4 meq/l with no decreases of plasma potassium. Plasma aldosterone averaged 7 +/- 1.8 ng/dl before NaCl infusion in subjects infused with 0.5 ng angiotensin II and was not significantly reduced with sodium chloride infusion. Angiotensin II infused at 5 ng/kg/min resulted in average plasma aldosterone levels of 31 +/- 3.6 ng/dl, which sodium chloride infusion decreased to 16.6 +/- 1.3 ng/dl (p less than 0.05) in 60 minutes. Plasma aldosterone remained depressed for the remaining period of study. Plasma ANF increased from 40 to 60 pg/ml with sodium chloride infusion. We conclude that small physiological elevations of plasma sodium concentrations can signal substantial decreases of plasma aldosterone in normal human subjects in situations where plasma angiotensin II is moderately elevated. The precise mechanisms of these responses remain to be determined. PMID- 2527201 TI - Differential development of vascular and cardiac hypertrophy in genetic hypertension. Relation to sympathetic function. AB - We compared blood pressure, hindquarter vascular resistance properties, left ventricular weight, and norepinephrine kinetics, in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and weight-matched normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats at 4, 9, 14, 20, 30, and 50 weeks of age. At 4 weeks, systolic and mean blood pressure measurements were the same in both strains, but the vascular resistance of the fully dilated hindquarter bed was significantly higher in SHR than in WKY rats, with a much larger difference during maximum constriction. Plots of resistance at maximum dilatation and at maximum constriction against body weight suggest that a component of the increase in vascular muscle mass in SHR occurred in the neonatal period preceding hypertension followed by a later component related to the rise in blood pressure. By contrast, left ventricular hypertrophy was minimal at 4 weeks and most of its development paralleled the rise in blood pressure. Sympathetic activity, assessed by norepinephrine fractional rate constant, was higher in SHR than in WKY rats in the left ventricle and kidney through most of the period between 4 and 50 weeks, but was similar in both strains in the muscle bed. This pattern of sympathetic activity will accentuate hypertension once cardiac and vascular hypertrophy are fully established. In all regions, norepinephrine tissue concentration was higher in young SHR and could potentiate the trophic effects of growth factors in early vascular hypertrophy. We suggest that the initial (primary) component of vascular hypertrophy precedes the rise in blood pressure and may be critical in the pathogenesis of hypertension. Possible reasons for the short delay in the rise in blood pressure in young SHR, once the vascular "amplifier" has been established, include high vascularity, immaturity of smooth muscle, and delay in the development of left ventricular hypertrophy. PMID- 2527203 TI - Hepatitis B infection. PMID- 2527202 TI - CCA [N-(2-carboxyphenyl)-4-chloroanthranilic acid disodium salt], a newly developed immunomodulating drug, suppresses T-cell activation by acting on macrophages. AB - The cellular mechanism of action of a newly developed drug, CCA, N-(2 carboxyphenyl)-4-chloroanthranilic acid disodium salt, on PHA-, autologous mixed lymphocyte reaction (AMLR)-, and phorbol myristate acetate (PMA)-stimulated T cell proliferation was investigated. Addition of 50 micrograms of CCA per milliliter suppressed PHA- and AMLR-stimulated T-cell proliferation. In contrast, CCA failed to suppress PMA-stimulated macrophage-depleted T-cell proliferation. After treatment of T cells or macrophages with CCA for 12 h, recombined T cells and macrophages were stimulated with phytohemagglutinin. [3H]Thymidine incorporation by T cells was suppressed when macrophages but not T cells were treated with CCA. These results indicate that CCA suppresses T-cell proliferation by acting on macrophages. The mechanism involved in this suppression of CCA was due to the loss of Ia antigen on macrophages and the loss of interleukin-1 (IL-1) secretion from macrophages. PMID- 2527205 TI - Abrogation of spleen macrophage suppressive activity by 15-deoxyspergualin. AB - We studied the immunomodulatory mechanism of 15-deoxyspergualin (DSG), a novel antitumor agent. To assess this, we used a mixed culture of antigen-primed lymph node cells (LNC) and spleen cells (SPC). In normal or untreated conditions, SPC suppressed the proliferative response of LNC to the antigens. In contrast, SPC from DSG-treated animals did not show any suppressive activity. This suppression was mediated by adherent cells in SPC but the suppression mechanism was recovered when DSG-treated spleen macrophages were reconstituted with control spleen nonadherent cells. These data suggest that DSG abrogates nonspecific suppressive activity of spleen cells by acting on both adherent and nonadherent cells. PMID- 2527204 TI - Spontaneous regression in murine hypersensitivity pneumonitis: lack of immunological tolerance. AB - We have reported a murine model of hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) by transnasal administration of Thermoactinomyces vulgaris (Tv) antigen and shown a potential usefulness in the study of the immunopathogenesis of HP. Since we observed spontaneous regression (SR) of the lung lesions with continuous administration of Tv antigen in our model of HP, attempts were made to study if SR is caused by immunological tolerance. The titers of anti-Tv IgG antibody in serum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) did not show any decrement during the period of SR, at the 6th and 9th weeks after the first administration of the antigen. A delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction, i.e. footpad swelling with Tv antigen, did not change significantly during the SR period. Analysis of BALF cells disclosed that Lyt-2-positive cells, i.e. suppressor/cytotoxic T lymphocytes, did not increase to predominate Lyt-1-positive cells. The lymphocyte proliferation test with Tv antigen showed that the lung lymphocytes reacted to Tv antigen as well as concanavalin A during the period of SR in a similar magnitude as in the development period (3 weeks after the first treatment with the antigen). Treatment with cyclophosphamide before the period of SR resulted in no delay of SR. Finally, the adoptive cell transfer of spleen T cells obtained from mice during the SR period did not manipulate the development of granulomatous pneumonitis in the recipient mice. We concluded that the events causing SR in our murine model of HP may not involve the induction of immunological tolerance in humoral or cellular immunity. PMID- 2527206 TI - Quantification of epidermal growth factor in human breast cyst fluids: correlation with dehydroepiandrosterone-sulphate and electrolyte concentrations. AB - Epidermal growth factor (EGF), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHA)-sulphate and [Na+] and [K+] were assayed in 78 cyst fluids from patients with a palpable breast cyst. Epidermal growth factor was detected in all but 2 cysts, the mean value +/- SEM being 506.2 +/- 39.3 ng/ml, with a range of 0-1,599 ng/ml. When the cyst fluids were sub-divided according to their [Na+]:[K+] ratio, group A cyst fluids ( [Na+]:[K+] less than 3) had a significantly higher (p less than 0.001) level of EGF than group B cyst fluids ([Na+]:[K+] greater than 3). Furthermore, the relationship between EGF and [Na+] and [K+] and between EGF and DHA-sulphate seemed to differ between the 2 cyst types and each cyst type was therefore analyzed separately. PMID- 2527207 TI - Re-targeting of human lymphocytes expressing the T-cell receptor gamma/delta to ovarian carcinoma cells by the use of bispecific monoclonal antibodies. AB - TcR gamma/delta+ lymphocytes represent a small subset homogeneously composed of cytolytic T cells displaying unique motility and homing properties. Since the lytic machinery of these cells can be efficiently triggered by monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) directed to the TcR gamma/delta, such MAbs were used for the construction of bispecific MAbs in conjunction with an MAb specific for ovarian carcinoma cells. Hybrid hybridomas were obtained by fusing the Mov19 MAb (IgG2a) producing hybridoma with either GI (IgG2a) or A13 (IgG1) hybridomas, secreting MAbs specific for 2 peripheral blood subsets of TcR gamma/delta+ lymphocytes. Hybrid hybridomas producing bispecific MAbs were screened according to their ability to induce ovarian carcinoma (IGROVI) target cell lysis by GI+ or A13+ T cell clones, respectively. The GI-derived GM33.9 bispecific MAb induced selective lysis of Mov19+ ovarian carcinoma target cells only by GI+ clones, whereas the A13-derived AM18.4 MAb was effective only in combination with A13+ clones. Neither the anti-TcR gamma/delta nor the Mov19 parental MAbs (used alone or in combination) induced target-cell lysis. The hybrid nature (IgG1/IgG2a) of the AM18.4 bispecific MAb was indicated by 2-color immunofluorescence experiments. Thus, both ovarian carcinoma and A13+ effector cells were double stained by AM18.4 bispecific MAb followed by PE-conjugated anti-IgG1 and FITC-conjugated anti-IgG2a second reagents. Polyclonal TcR gamma/delta+ cells were obtained by direct stimulation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells with Sepharose bead conjugated anti-TcR gamma/delta MAbs and IL-2. The lines so obtained contained more than 90% of TcR gamma/delta+ cells after 4 weeks of culture, with an increase in TcR gamma/delta+ cell numbers ranging from 200 to 1,000-fold. These TcR gamma/delta+ cell lines efficiently lysed ovarian carcinoma target cells in the presence of bispecific MAb and may therefore represent a suitable source of effector cells for induction of ovarian carcinoma cell lysis. PMID- 2527208 TI - Development of splenic natural suppressor (NS) cells in Ehrlich tumor-bearing mice. AB - Spleen cells from C57BL/6J mice bearing Ehrlich carcinoma growing as a solid tumor show progressive unresponsiveness to concanavalin A (Con A) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) mitogens. This is accompanied by striking spleen enlargement with marked hematopoietic activity. Lymphoproliferative assays of normal spleen cells in co-culture with tumor-bearing spleen cells (TBSC) show that: (a) TBSC contain non-specific suppressor cells able to abrogate both Con A and LPS responses, or mixed lymphocyte reaction, of normal spleen cells and (b) suppression by TBSC is MHC-unrestricted, non-prostaglandin-mediated and greatly enhanced by Con A supernatants. Suppressor cells associated with TBSC are large, low-density cells without markers of mature B or T lymphocytes or of the mononuclear phagocyte system. Most appear to be asialo-GM1-negative, as suppression was only partially inhibited by treatment with anti-asialo-GM1 and complement. Since NK activity is lacking in TBSC, our data strongly suggest that these "null" suppressor cells are related to the natural suppressor (NS) cells found described in normal bone-marrow and neonatal spleens, or induced in adult spleens by total lymphoid irradiation, graft-vs.-host disease, or cyclophosphamide treatment. PMID- 2527209 TI - Fibronectin/laminin and their receptors in aberrant growth control in FR3T3 cells transformed by Ha-ras oncogene and epidermal growth factor gene. AB - FR3T3 cells transfected with either the Ha-ras oncogene or the epidermal-growth factor (EGF) gene demonstrate the transformed phenotype as indicated by in vitro and in vivo criteria. We have examined non-transformed FR3T3 cells as well as Ha ras-oncogene-transformed and EGF-gene-transformed cells for expression of cell surface fibronectin and cell surface laminin. Fibronectin was absent from the surface of the Ha-ras-oncogene-transformed cells but present on both the EGF-gene transformed cells and the non-transformed FR3T3 cells. Laminin was present on the cell surface in all 3 lines. The lack of surface fibronectin on the Ha-ras oncogene-transformed cells was associated with reduced fibronectin production as indicated by immunoblotting of whole cell extracts and by ELISA. Concomitantly, there was a significant reduction of fibronectin binding by the Ha-ras-oncogene transformed cells was compared to their EGF-gene-transformed and non-transformed counterparts. The Ha-ras-oncogene-transformed cells demonstrated reduced cell substrate adhesiveness relative to the other two cell lines, as indicated by rates of attachment and spreading on plastic culture dishes in the presence of bovine serum albumin. They also demonstrated reduced adhesiveness in response to fibronectin but not laminin. Taken together, our results suggest that aberrant expression of fibronectin/fibronectin receptors is associated with Ha-ras oncogene-induced transformation. In contrast, transformation by the EGF gene does not appear to involve aberrant expression of fibronectin/fibronectin receptors. PMID- 2527210 TI - Experimental studies on anaemia in sheep infected with Dictyocaulus filaria. AB - The pathogenesis of Dictyocaulus filaria induced anaemia was experimentally investigated. Nineteen Dorset-Muzaffarnagri male lambs were divided into two groups of 13 and six. The lambs in the former group received a primary infection dose of 2000 D. filaria infective larvae, whereas animals in the latter group were kept as uninfected controls. The haematological alterations and faecal larval output were monitored weekly until day 220 post-infection. The infection caused an increase in erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and total leukocyte count (TLC). However, a decrease in packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin, total erythrocyte count (TEC) and blood pH was observed in acute infection. The shape and size of the erythrocytes, serum bilirubin level, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) remained unaffected In carriers, except for TEC, the values of these parameters returned to near-normal levels. The analysis of the results suggests that the infected animals developed a normocytic normochromic anaemia which persisted during the later stage of infection. PMID- 2527211 TI - Transplantation of photoreceptors to light-damaged retina. AB - We investigated the possibility of reconstructing light-damaged retinas by photoreceptor transplantation. The outer nuclear layer containing the photoreceptor cells was eliminated in adult albino rat retinas by exposure to constant high-level illumination. Photoreceptors for transplantation were harvested from neonatal rats using a novel isolation technique that maintained the cellular organization of the outer nuclear layer. Transplantation was accomplished using a transcorneal approach to the subretinal space, which minimized trauma to the eye. The retina reattached to the back of the eye with transplanted photoreceptors interposed between the retina and the overlying tissues. Prelabelling with fluorescent dye enabled positive identification of the transplanted cells. The transplanted photoreceptors appeared to survive transplantation for at least 6 weeks and were immunohistochemically reactive for opsin. The antibody staining for opsin identifies the transplanted cells as photoreceptors and indicates that they are still capable of producing visual pigment and therefore may have the capacity to transduce light. These findings indicate that photoreceptors can be transplanted to form a new outer nuclear layer in a damaged mature retina. PMID- 2527213 TI - Atlantoaxial instability in Down's syndrome: clinical and radiological screening. AB - One hundred and thirty children with Down's syndrome were screened for the presence of atlantoaxial instability, using both clinical examination and radiographs of the cervical spine taken in flexion and hyperextension views. Seven children were found to have radiological evidence of atlantoaxial instability, with an atlanto-dens interval greater than 5.0 mm in one or all positions. Although a full clinical history was obtained from the attending parent and each child underwent a complete neurological examination, there were no factors detected which differentiated between those with radiological evidence of atlantoaxial instability and those with a normal atlantodens distance. It is recommended that children with Down's syndrome be screened twice, at the ages of 5-10 years and at 15 years. PMID- 2527214 TI - [Successful retinoid therapy of Netherton syndrome]. AB - A young patient with Netherton's syndrome characterized by the classic triad of ichthyosis linearis circumflexa, trichorhexis invaginata and atopy was treated with Acitretin, a new retinoid preparation: 35 mg Acitretin/day resulted in a severe, erosive dermatitis which necessitated interruption of therapy. Even with 10 mg/day the patient had intolerable irritation of the integument. After a further dosage reduction to 5 mg/day there were no obvious side effects and a long-term treatment was possible, resulting in an obvious reduction of the ichthyotic lesions and improved hair growth. Electron microscopy in the active part of the skin lesions from untreated skin revealed granular, membrane-enclosed material intracellularly and in the intercellular spaces of the granular layer. Keratinization was almost completely suppressed. Therapy with Acitretin drastically reduced the deposition of intra- and extracellular material and normalized keratinization. Our results underline the importance of starting retinoid therapy in Netherton's syndrome at a low dosage and adjusting it carefully in each case with reference to the skin manifestations and the side effects. PMID- 2527212 TI - Retinal reattachment of the primate macula. Photoreceptor recovery after short term detachment. AB - The macula of the neural retina from 12 adult rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) was detached from the overlying retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) by subretinal injection of a balanced salt solution. Seven days later, the two layers were reapposed by draining fluid from the vitreous cavity and replacing it with a 3:1 mixture of sulphur hexafluride gas and air. Animals were sacrificed at 1 hr, 2 days and 7 days after detachment, and at periods ranging from 3 to 14 days after reattachment. At 2-7 days prior to sacrifice, some eyes received an intravitreal injection of 3H-L-fucose. The eyes were then fixed for light and electron microscopy (EM), and tissue sections were processed for autoradiography (ARG) or immunocytochemistry. During the 7-day detachment interval, rod outer segments (ROSs) and cone outer segments (COSs) degenerated, but inner segments remained intact and the rest of the retina appeared normal. The apical RPE surface dedifferentiated during the detachment interval. At 3 days after reattachment, a regrowth of rudimentary ROSs and COSs had occurred, but the disc stacking was clearly abnormal. ROSs and COSs both showed an increase in length and a tendency to return to their normal configurations with increasing time after reattachment. ROSs and COSs regained approximately 40% of their normal lengths after a 2-week reattachment period; however, persistent outer segment abnormalities were frequently found in otherwise well regenerated areas. Autoradiographic results confirmed that new disc members were synthesized subsequent to reattachment. Newly synthesized rod disc membranes were uniformly labeled using antibodies to bovine opsin. Regenerating outer segments interdigitated with newly formed apical RPE processes, and radiolabeled phagosomes were identified within the RPE cytoplasm by 1 week after reattachment. Proliferation of the RPE cell layer was identified at some locations in all animals, and was strongly correlated with a lack of underlying outer segment regeneration. Because of the short detachment interval, and the absence of underlying pathology or trauma, the recovery process described here probably represents an example of optimum recovery after retinal reattachment. PMID- 2527215 TI - [Comment on the contribution by N. Tsankov and S. Tonev: Ghirlandajo's painting "Grandfather and Grandchild" from the viewpoint of the dermatologist]. PMID- 2527217 TI - Comparative antitumor activity of 5-fluorouracil and 5'-deoxy-5-fluorouridine in combination with radiation therapy in mice bearing colon 26 adenocarcinoma. AB - The present study compared the antitumor activities of chemotherapy with 5 fluorouracil (5-FU) and with its prodrug 5'-deoxy-5-fluorouridine (5'-DFUR) in combination with radiotherapy on a solid colon 26 adenocarcinoma in the mouse. A single administration of 5'-DFUR immediately after local irradiation on day 10 after tumor inoculation produced more than additive antitumor effects, while only an additive effect was observed in the combined treatment with 5-FU and radiation. This over-additive effect of 5'-DFUR was more obvious in a fractionated-dose treatment schedule, where the same combined modality treatment was given three times on days 6, 10 and 14 after inoculation of the tumor cells. 5'-DFUR enhanced the radiation effects on the tumor in terms of the delay in tumor growth as well as the increase in the survival time. 5-FU produced only a marginal additive antitumor effect. Furthermore, radiation damage to normal tissues (skin damage by local irradiation and bone marrow and spleen damage by whole-body irradiation) was not enhanced by 5'-DFUR, though radiation damage to the thymus was additive. On the other hand, 5-FU produced toxic effects that were additive for all normal tissues tested. Thus, at doses that were the most effective against tumors, relative therapeutic gain factors (the ratio of the effect on tumors to that on the bone marrow) of 5'-DFUR and 5-FU were 1.24 and 0.49, respectively. These results suggest that 5'-DFUR will have a greater potential than 5-FU in combined modality treatment of cancer patients. PMID- 2527216 TI - Changes in lymphocyte subsets following multiple administration of recombinant interleukin-2 plus recombinant interferon-beta or -gamma in tumor-bearing mice. AB - Treatment with a combination of recombinant human interleukin-2 (rHIL-2) and recombinant mouse interferon-beta (rIFN-beta) or -gamma (rIFN-gamma) showed a significant antitumor effect against sc adenocarcinoma 755 in mice, although treatment with either one alone had almost no effect. The combination of rHIL-2 and rIFN-beta caused regression of the tumor but the combination of rHIL-2 and rIFN-gamma did not. Injection of tumor-bearing mice with the combinations of rHIL 2 and rIFN resulted in marked increases in the total number of peritoneal lymphocytes, and the frequency of Lyt-2+ cells was more markedly increased by the combination of rHIL-2 and rIFN-beta than by the combination of rHIL-2 and rIFN gamma. In Winn assay, elimination of the Lyt-2+ population abolished the protective capacity of the peritoneal cells. The subsets of thymocytes were drastically changed when mice were bearing a tumor or were treated with cytokines. In particular, Lyt-2+/L3T4+ cells were decreased in tumor-bearing mice, but many Lyt-2+/L3T4+ cells were maintained in the thymus by treatment with a cytokine alone. When treated with rHIL-2 and rIFN-beta, the Lyt-2+/L3T4+ cells were markedly decreased, while Lyt-2+/L3T4- T-cells were increased, but these subsets were little changed by treatment with rHIL-2 plus rIFN-gamma. Thus, injections of rHIL-2 and rIFN-beta into tumor-bearing mice resulted in a high frequency of Lyt-2+/L3T4- cells in the peritoneal cavity, together with changes in the T-cell subsets in the thymus. These results suggest that maturation of T cells in the thymus may be an important step in the pathway by which cytokine treatment brings about regression of tumors. PMID- 2527218 TI - Thioureas and isothiouronium salts of the aglycone of teicoplanin. I. Synthesis and biological activity. AB - A series of thiourea and isothiouronium salt derivatives of the aglycone of teicoplanin was prepared by reaction of the terminal amino group with isothiocyanates, followed by S-alkylation of the thiourea compounds. Unexpectedly, the two classes of derivatives show a similar in vitro antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria. Thiourea compounds, due to the lack of a positively charged N-terminus group, have a 10-fold lower binding constant to Ac-D-Ala-D-Ala, a bacterial cell-wall model, than the parent antibiotic and isothiouronium salt derivatives. PMID- 2527219 TI - An unexpected intramolecular cyclization of isothiouronium teicoplanins. II. Reaction mechanism and biological activity. AB - N15-Isothiouronium derivatives of teicoplanin and its aglycone submitted to alkaline condition give rise to an intramolecular cyclization. The structures of the new gamma-lactam derivatives were determined by using 1H NMR, IR and fast atom bombardment mass spectra. The cyclization mechanism was interpreted on the basis of the identification of the intermediate structure. The poor in vitro antibacterial activity of the new cyclic compounds and the negligible affinity for the synthetic peptidoglycan model Ac2-L-Lys-D-Ala-D-Ala is probably due to the lack of the N-17 amidic proton and to the lack of the basic character of the nitrogen in position 15. PMID- 2527220 TI - The bactericidal activity of vancomycin and teicoplanin against methicillin resistant strains of coagulase negative Staphylococcus spp. PMID- 2527221 TI - Teicoplanin administration in patients experiencing reactions to vancomycin. PMID- 2527222 TI - Cellular uptake, and intracellular bactericidal activity of teicoplanin in human macrophages. AB - The effects of teicoplanin on human macrophage functions were evaluated by assays of antibiotic uptake, bacterial phagocytosis and intracellular killing. The results indicated that teicoplanin was efficiently concentrated by both resident and stimulated phagocytes, achieving intracellular concentrations higher than those in the surrounding extracellular medium. Comparison of the degree of antibiotic penetration into dead, resident and stimulated macrophages seemed to suggest that transfer across the macrophage membrane was of a passive nature, and was not related to the metabolic state of the cells. At concentrations of half its MIC for the bacteria, teicoplanin caused macrophages to ingest and kill Staphylococcus aureus at a greater rate than did macrophages without drug. Phagocytes harvested from mice receiving intravenous teicoplanin showed greater phagocytic activity than those from control mice, suggesting that potentiation of host defences can occur in vivo. PMID- 2527224 TI - The efficacy of the combination of teicoplanin or flucloxacillin with netilmicin in the treatment of Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia. AB - Twenty one patients with serious Staphylococcus aureus infection and bacteraemia were randomized prospectively to receive either teicoplanin and netilmicin or flucloxacillin and netilmicin. After at least 48 h of treatment serum samples were collected for the determination of trough and peak antibiotic concentrations, the serum killing level and the serum bactericidal rate. With the help of a severity-of-disease scoring system (APACHE II) the clinical efficacy of antimicrobial therapy was assessed. Eighteen patients were evaluable. The clinical results and the results of the serum assays suggest that treatment with teicoplanin or flucloxacillin, combined with netilmicin, is a safe approach in patients with bacteraemia caused by S. aureus. PMID- 2527223 TI - Pharmacokinetics of teicoplanin in subjects with varying degrees of renal function. AB - The pharmacokinetics of teicoplanin were studied in 20 subjects with varying degrees of renal function after administration of a single 200 mg intravenous dose. Pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated with a three compartment open model and by non-compartmental analysis. The elimination half-life increased as creatinine clearance decreased (rs = -0.87, P less than 0.001). The distribution volume was 1.0 (+/- 0.3) 1/kg of actual body weight and did not vary with changes in creatinine clearance. In normal subjects the main route of elimination was renal. The plasma clearance of teicoplanin correlated with creatinine clearance (rs = 0.91, P less than 0.001). At lower levels of creatinine clearance the variation in elimination half-life was such that we recommend individualization of the teicoplanin dosage following the measurement of the drug concentration in plasma. PMID- 2527225 TI - NADH shuttle enzymes and cytochrome b5 reductase in human skeletal muscle: effect of strength training. AB - The main aim of this study was to investigate whether enzyme levels of the malate aspartate and alpha-glycerophosphate shuttles and of cytochrome b5 reductase in human skeletal muscle are affected by strength training. Muscle biopsy samples from the deltoid muscle of the nondominant arm in untrained (n = 12) and strength trained (n = 12) subjects were compared. The strength-trained muscles were characterized by a tendency to a higher percentage of type I fibers (67 vs. 59%), a lower percentage of type IIb fibers (12 vs. 18%), 34% larger mean fiber areas, and 19% more capillaries per fiber (P less than 0.1). No difference was noted in levels of enzymes representing the citric acid cycle, fatty acid oxidation, and glycolysis, nor in the number of capillaries per square millimeter. Neither did the levels of malate-aspartate and alpha-glycerophosphate shuttle enzymes nor cytochrome b5 reductase differ. Levels of cytochrome b5 reductase correlated (r = 0.59, P less than 0.01) with levels of the mitochondrial marker enzyme citrate synthase. It is concluded that strength training does not appear to result in increased levels of NADH shuttle enzymes and cytochrome b5 reductase. PMID- 2527227 TI - Role of thromboxane receptors in Forssman shock in guinea pigs. AB - Forssman shock is a bronchospastic reaction mounted in guinea pigs on intravenous administration of an antiserum obtained from rabbits immunized against sheep erythrocytes. The involvement of thromboxane receptors in Forssman shock was determined with SQ 30,741, which was characterized as a selective antagonist of these receptors in guinea pig airways in vitro and in vivo. A volume of antiserum producing consistent, sublethal bronchoconstriction was given either alone (control) or 3 min after SQ 30,741 (0.03, 0.3, or 1.0 mg/kg iv) to urethan anesthetized guinea pigs. In controls, maximum reductions in dynamic compliance ( 59 +/- 6%, P less than 0.01) and increases in airways resistance (383 +/- 97%, P less than 0.01) were detected 1 min after antiserum. Both responses were significantly inhibited by SQ 30,741, either partially at 0.03 mg/kg or completely at 0.3 mg/kg. An accompanying thrombocytopenia was not abated by SQ 30,741. In separate experiments, bronchospasm was reduced by aerosol administration of 0.1% SQ 30,741 and completely prevented by aspirin (10 mg/kg iv). When Forssman antiserum was injected in lethal quantities to other guinea pigs, SQ 30,741 (1 mg/kg iv) attentuated only the resistance component of bronchospasm and did not prevent death. These data demonstrate that thromboxane receptor stimulation is a pivotal step in the pulmonary manifestations of sublethal Forssman shock but is less crucial in more severe forms of the reaction. PMID- 2527226 TI - Effect of beta-adrenoceptor blockade on renin-aldosterone and alpha-ANF during exercise at altitude. AB - The renin-aldosterone system may be depressed in subjects exercising at high altitude, thereby preventing excessive angiotensin I (ANG I) and aldosterone levels, which could favor the onset of acute mountain sickness. The role of beta adrenoceptors in hormonal responses to hypoxia was investigated in 12 subjects treated with a nonselective beta-blocker, pindolol. The subjects performed a standardized maximal bicycle ergometer exercise with (P) and without (C) acute pindolol treatment (15 mg/day) at sea level, as well as during a 5-day period at high altitude (4,350 m, barometric pressure 450 mmHg). During sea-level exercise, pindolol caused a reduction in plasma renin activity (PRA, 2.83 +/- 0.35 vs. 5.13 +/- 0.7 ng ANG I.ml-1.h-1, P less than 0.01), an increase in plasma alpha-atrial natriuretic factor (alpha-ANF) level (23.1 +/- 2.9 (P) vs. 10.4 +/- 1.5 (C) pmol/1, P less than 0.01), and no change in plasma aldosterone concentration [0.50 +/- 0.04 (P) vs. 0.53 +/- 0.03 (C) nmol/1]. Compared with sea-level values, PRA (3.45 +/- 0.7 ng ANG I.ml-1.h-1) and PA (0.39 +/- 0.03 nmol/1) were significantly lower (P less than 0.05) during exercise at high altitude. alpha ANF was not affected by hypoxia. When beta-blockade was achieved at high altitude, exercise-induced elevation in PRA was completely abolished, but no additional decline in PA occurred. Plasma norepinephrine and epinephrine concentrations tended to be lower during maximal exercise at altitude; however, these differences were not statistically significant. Our results provide further evidence that hypoxia has a suppressive effect on the renin-aldosterone system. However, beta-adrenergic mechanisms do not appear to be responsible for inhibition of renin secretion at high altitude. PMID- 2527228 TI - Reverse-phase liquid chromatographic determination of clioquinol in cream and ointment preparations: collaborative study. AB - Seven laboratories participated in a collaborative study to analyze, in duplicate, 2 synthetic formulations and 2 commercial preparations, labeled to contain 3% clioquinol. Clioquinol is determined as its nickel (II) complex by reverse-phase liquid chromatography on a phenyl-bonded column with a mobile phase of acetonitrile-methanol-water, containing ammonium acetate and nickel chloride. Detection is at 273 nm and diphenylamine is added as an internal standard. Mean recoveries were 99.1 and 101.1%, respectively, for the ointment and cream synthetic preparations and 96.7 and 99.7%, respectively, for the commercial ointment and cream. All results are consistent with the variability of other methods at this concentration range. The method has been approved interim official first action. PMID- 2527229 TI - Butanedione monoxime suppresses contraction and ATPase activity of rabbit skeletal muscle. AB - The effects of 2,3-butanedione 2-monoxime (BDM) on mechanical responses of glycerinated fibers and the ATPase activity of heavy meromyosin (HMM) and myofibrils have been studied using rabbit skeletal muscle. The mechanical responses and the ATPase activity were measured in similar conditions (ionic strength 0.06-0.2 M, 0.4-4 mM MgATP, 0-20 mM BDM, 2-20 degrees C and pH 7.0). BDM reversibly reduced the isometric tension, shortening speed, and instantaneous stiffness of the fibers. BDM also inhibited myofibrillar and HMM ATPase activities. The inhibitory effect on the relative ATPase activity of HMM was not influenced by the addition of actin or troponin-tropomyosin-actin. High temperature and low ionic strength weakened BDM's suppression of contraction of the fibers and the ATPase activity of contracting myofibrils, but not of the HMM, acto-HMM and relaxed myofibrillar ATPase activity. The size of the initial phosphate burst at 20 degrees C was independent of the concentration of BDM. These results suggest that the suppression of contraction of muscle fibers is due mainly to direct action of BDM on the myosin molecules. PMID- 2527230 TI - Oxygen exchange reaction during ATP hydrolysis by glycerinated muscle fibers, myofibrils, and synthetic actomyosin filaments. AB - The oxygen exchange during ATP hydrolysis by glycerinated muscle fibers, myofibrils, and synthetic actomyosin filaments was studied from the distribution of the [18O]Pi species produced by the hydrolysis of [gamma-18O]ATP. The products were mixtures of two species, one with a low extent of oxygen exchange and the other with a high extent. The low and high extents of oxygen exchange in these two Pi species were the same as those of the acto-S-1 ATPase reaction through the routes with and without the dissociation of actomyosin, respectively (Yasui, M., Ohe, M., Kajita, A., Arata, T., & Inoue, A. [1988] J. Biochem. 104, 550-559). During isometric contraction of glycerinated muscle fibers at 20 degrees C, the fraction of ATP hydrolysis with low extent of oxygen exchange was 0.83 and 0.70, respectively, in 0 and 120 mM KCl. In myofibrils, the fraction of ATP hydrolysis with a low extent of oxygen exchange was 0.72-0.88 in 0-120 mM KCl at 20 degrees C. Therefore, in glycerinated muscle fibers and myofibrils ATP seems to be mainly hydrolyzed through a route without the dissociation of actomyosin, especially at low ionic strength and at room temperature when the tension development is high. ATP hydrolysis through this route may be coupled with muscle contraction. PMID- 2527231 TI - Kinetic characterization of the Ca2+-pumping ATPase of cardia sarcolemma in four states of activation. AB - The Ca2+ dependence of the Ca2+-pumping ATPase of bovine cardiac sarcolemma was studied for four states of activation: (a) unactivated, (b) cAMP-dependent protein kinase (cAMP protein kinase C-subunit)-activated, (c) calmodulin (CAM) activated, and (d) CAM plus cAMP protein kinase C-subunit-activated. Analysis of the Ca2+ dependence of active transport gave the following Vmax (nanomoles Ca2+/(mg x min], Km (nM) for Ca2+, and Hill coefficient values for the four states at pH 7.4, 37 degrees C: (a) 1.7 +/- 0.3, 1800 +/- 100, 1.6 +/- 0.1; (b) 3.1 +/- 0.5, 1100 +/- 100, 1.7 +/- 0.1; (c) 15.0 +/- 2.5, 64 +/- 1.4, 3.7 +/- 0.2; and (d) 36.0 +/- 6.5, 63 +/- 1.7, 3.7 +/- 0.1. CAM has the most dramatic effect, increasing the apparent Ca2+ affinity by a factor of 28, increasing the Hill coefficient 2.0 units to a value approaching 4 and increasing the Vmax by a factor of 9 or 12. The effective Ca2+ concentration (EC50) for the Ca2+-induced activation of the enzyme in the presence of 5 microM calmodulin is close to the Km for Ca2+ for the CAM-activated state (64 nM). Activation by cAMP protein kinase C-subunit had only minor effects on the Km and Hill coefficient, but increased the Vmax of both the unactivated and the CAM-activated forms of the pump by factor of 1.8 and 2.4, respectively. Analysis suggests that CAM activation is the result of direct binding of Ca2-CAM or high complexes, conferring higher Ca2+ affinity to the enzyme. Analysis suggests that regulatory phosphorylation (cAMP protein kinase C-subunit) increases the rates of processes subsequent to or distinct from Ca2+ binding. The CAM-activated form of the pump was further characterized. Unexpectedly, this form of the enzyme is stimulated a factor of 1.9 by ADP, with half-maximal stimulation between 0.4 and 0.7 mM. Analysis of the progress curves for uptake show that the CAM-activated enzyme is highly resistant to inhibition by transported Ca2+, with an IC50 of 32 mM. The implications of these findings for the pump mechanism and for its role in the regulation of cardiac contractility are discussed. PMID- 2527232 TI - Characterization of a P-type ATPase of the archaebacterium Methanococcus voltae. AB - The vanadate-sensitive ATPase of Methanococcus voltae has been purified by a procedure which includes, purification of the cytoplasmic membrane by sucrose gradient centrifugation, solubilization with Triton X-100, and DEAE-Sephadex and Sephacryl S-300 chromatography. While the DEAE-Sephadex step provided a preparation consisting of two polypeptides (74 and 52 kDa), the Sephacryl S-300 step yields a product with a subunit of 74 kDa. Incubation of either membranes or purified ATPase with [gamma-32P]ATP followed by acidic (pH 2.4) lithium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis demonstrated the vanadate-sensitive labeling of a 74-kDa acyl phosphate intermediate. These results indicate that the M. voltae ATPase is of the P-type. PMID- 2527233 TI - Cloning and expression of the yeast plasma membrane ATPase in Escherichia coli. AB - The yeast plasma membrane ATPase gene PMA1 was cloned into Escherichia coli using the high expression tac and T7 promoters. The gene product is toxic to the bacterial cell leading to very low expression levels and arrested growth of the host cell within minutes of induction. The expressed protein is immunologically cross-reactive with the yeast ATPase, comigrates with the original protein in sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gels, and is isolated in the E. coli membrane fraction. The partially purified protein exhibits ATPase activity. PMID- 2527234 TI - Localization of the ecto-ATPase (ecto-nucleotidase) in the rat hepatocyte plasma membrane. Implications for the functions of the ecto-ATPase. AB - The surface distribution of the plasma membrane Ca2+ (Mg2+)-ATPase (ecto-ATPase) in rat hepatocytes was determined by several methods. 1) Two polyclonal antibodies specific for the ecto-ATPase were used to examine the distribution of the enzyme in frozen sections of rat liver by immunofluorescence. Fluorescent staining was observed at the bile canalicular region of hepatocytes. 2) Plasma membranes were isolated from the canalicular and sinusoidal regions of rat liver. The specific activity of ecto-ATPase in the canalicular membranes was 22 times higher than that of sinusoidal membranes. The enrichment of the ecto-ATPase activity in the canalicular membrane is closely parallel to that of two other canalicular membrane markers, gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase and leucine aminopeptidase. 3) By immunoblots with polyclonal antibodies against the ecto ATPase and the Na+,K+-ATPase, it was found that the ecto-ATPase protein was only detected in canalicular membranes and not in sinusoidal membranes, while the Na+,K+-ATPase protein was only detected in sinusoidal membranes and not in canalicular membranes. These results indicate that the ecto-ATPase is enriched in the canalicular membranes of rat hepatocytes. PMID- 2527235 TI - Cloning and expression of a cDNA coding for a rat liver plasma membrane ecto ATPase. The primary structure of the ecto-ATPase is similar to that of the human biliary glycoprotein I. AB - The amino acid sequence of the ecto-ATPase from rat liver was deduced from analysis of cDNA clones and a genomic clone. Immunoblots with antibodies raised against a peptide sequence deduced from the cDNA sequence indicated that the determined amino acid sequence is that of the ecto-ATPase. The deduced sequence predicts a 519-amino acid protein with a calculated molecular mass of 57,388 daltons. There are 16 potential asparagine-linked glycosylation sites in the protein. Hydropathy analysis of the deduced amino acid sequence indicates that the protein has two hydrophobic stretches. One is located at the N-terminal and the other is near the C-terminal end. A full-length clone encoding the ecto ATPase was expressed transiently in mouse L cells and human HeLa cells. The cell lysate from the transfected cells contained immunoreactive ecto-ATPase and Ca2+ stimulated ATPase activities. The expressed protein is glycosylated and has an apparent molecular weight (100,000) similar to that of the rat liver plasma membrane ecto-ATPase. PMID- 2527236 TI - Synthesis of small proteoglycans substituted with keratan sulfate by rabbit articular chondrocytes. AB - 35S-Labeled proteoglycans produced by chondrocytes from immature and mature rabbits were fractionated on associative CsCl gradients. In all cultures, greater than 85% of the incorporated radioactivity was present in the A1 fraction (rho 1.60) as chondroitin sulfate/keratin sulfate-substituted aggregating proteoglycan monomer; the remainder was present in small proteoglycans in the A2, A3, and A4 fractions of low buoyant densities (rho 1.53, 1.45, 1.37, respectively). Detailed glycosaminoglycan analysis of the A2, A3, and A4 fractions showed dermatan sulfate-rich species were present throughout. However, in both immature and mature cultures, 30-45% of the glycosaminoglycans in the A3/A4 combined fractions were present as keratan sulfate, as shown by insensitivity to digestion with chondroitinase ABC, specific digestion with endo-beta-galactosidase, and reactivity with antibody 5D4. Immature and mature chondrocytes synthesized very similar amounts of the low buoyant density keratan sulfate proteoglycan on a per cell basis. Moreover, 51 and 37% of the total keratan sulfate produced by immature and mature chondrocytes, respectively, were present in the low buoyant density proteoglycan. Pulse-chase experiments indicated that the low buoyant density keratan sulfate was not derived from the large aggregating proteoglycan by proteolysis in the extracellular space. The small keratan sulfate proteoglycans appear to be present as a species distinct from the small dermatan sulfate proteoglycans in these cultures in that they can be separated on Q Sepharose chromatography and sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The apparent size (40-60 kDa), composition, and heterogeneity of the keratan sulfate proteoglycans suggest that they may be related to the small keratan sulfate proteoglycans of cornea. PMID- 2527237 TI - Differential tissue expression of three 35-kDa annexin calcium-dependent phospholipid-binding proteins. AB - We have purified three 35-kDa calcium- and phospholipid-binding proteins from rat liver. These three calcimedins bind to phosphatidylserine in a calcium-dependent manner and have been termed 35 alpha, 35 beta, and 35 gamma based on their relative charge as determined by isoelectric focusing. Purification of the three 35-kDa calcimedins is achieved by phenyl-Sepharose, ion exchange, and gel filtration chromatography. Antibody was produced against the annexin consensus peptide, Lys-Ala-Met-Lys-Gly-Leu-Gly-Thr-Asp-Glu, which was derived from the sequence of several Ca2+/phospholipid-binding proteins including calpactin, lipocortin, endonexin II, 67-kDa calelectrin, lymphocyte 68-kDa protein, and protein II. Recognition of each 35-kDa calcimedin by anticonsensus sequence antibody places them in this protein family. Antibodies against each 35-kDa calcimedin were raised and purified by antigen-affinity chromatography. Each antibody is monospecific for the respective 35-kDa calcimedin. Immunological cross-reactivity defines 35 alpha, 35 beta, and 35 gamma as lipocortins III, IV, and V, respectively. Surveys by immunoblot analysis using these monospecific antibodies demonstrate a markedly different tissue expression pattern for each 35 kDa calcimedin. Furthermore, the levels of 35 alpha, 35 beta, and 35 gamma are differentially regulated in maturing rat ovary and uterus. Each calcimedin has been localized by indirect immunofluorescence within specific cell types. These results support the concept that mediation of the intracellular calcium signal can occur via multiple pathways through several related yet independent mediator proteins. PMID- 2527238 TI - Determination of the putative binding site for fibronectin on platelet glycoprotein IIb-IIIa complex through a hydropathic complementarity approach. AB - We have applied the principle of complementary hydropathy to the prediction of the binding site for fibronectin (FN) and for the alpha-chain of fibrinogen in the platelet receptor complex glycoprotein (GP) IIb-IIIa. Since both ligands bind to it through their respective RGDS (Arg-Gly-Asp-Ser) domains and since both have been cloned, we were able to deduce the amino acid sequence of the binding site from the nucleotide sequence coding for RGDS in both proteins. The deduced peptides were very similar. Antibodies raised against a synthetic peptide WTVPTA (Trp-Thr-Val-Pro-Thr-Ala) deduced from the cloned rat FN RGDS domain block ADP mediated platelet aggregation; this block can be overcome by additional fibrinogen. In Western blots of whole cell platelet extracts run under reducing conditions, this antibody binds to a 108-kDa band. It also binds to affinity purified GP IIIa. Furthermore, it reacts strongly with GP IIIa immunoprecipitated by a commercially available anti-GP IIb-IIIa monoclonal antibody. Binding of affinity-purified GP IIb-IIIa complex to fibronectin is inhibited by the 110-kDa FN fragment. Similar inhibitions can be effected by WTVPTA (Trp-Thr-Val-Pro-Thr Ala) and GAVSTA (Gly-Ala-Val-Ser-Thr-Ala) predicted from the rat and human fibronectin nucleotide sequences, respectively. GAGSTA (Gly-Ala-Gly-Ser-Thr-Ala) and GARSTA (Gly-Ala-Arg-Ser-Thr-Ala) related to the human peptide but with discrepant hydropathies are noninhibitory. PMID- 2527239 TI - Medroxyprogesterone acetate: steady-state pharmacokinetics bioequivalence of two oral formulations. AB - Two micronized oral formulations of medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) (Farlutal and Clinovir) were compared in order to evaluate their relative bioavailability. Sixteen female patients with metastatic breast cancer were entered in a randomized cross-over study on 500-mg MPA tablets repeatedly administered (twice daily for 20 days). At the steady state, similar mean +/- SD serum levels of MPA were obtained (131 +/- 44 ng/ml for Farlutal and 136 +/- 45 ng/ml for Clinovir) and the two formulations proved to be bioequivalent (confidence interval at a significance level of 0.95 = 93%-107%). PMID- 2527240 TI - The sea urchin multicatalytic protease: purification, biochemical analysis, subcellular distribution, and relationship to snRNPs. AB - We have purified and extensively characterized a 19-S particle from sea urchin eggs. This particle is the sea urchin homologue of the "prosome", a particle originally identified in duck erythroblasts. We now show that these sea urchin prosomes contain multiple proteolytic activities. As shown for analogous particles from other cells, these particles hydrolyze synthetic substrates containing neutral hydrophobic or basic amino acids at the carboxy terminus of the synthetic peptides. They contain 16-20 small proteins ranging in molecular weight from 20,000 to 32,000. Peptide mapping shows that most of the polypeptides are unique, however, three exist in two isoelectric forms. We have investigated the possible function of the sea urchin multicatalytic proteases (MCPs) by determining their subcellular distribution, their relationship to egg snRNPs, and their possible role in translational repression. There are almost as many MCPs (2 x 10(8] as ribosomes (6.6 x 10(8] or mRNPs (1.8 x 10(7] per egg. This suggests that like ribosomes, the MCPs are stored in the egg for use during later development. We find that a substantial proportion of egg MCPs move into nuclei by the late blastula stage. Using a specific antibody against one of the sea urchin MCP proteins and antibodies against U1-U6, La, and Ro RNPs, we show that the sea urchin particle is distinct from these RNPs, although the anti-U1-U6 RNP antibody cross-reacts with a single MCP protein. In addition, the sea urchin MCP appears to be associated with a large structure in the cytoplasm of unfertilized eggs and is released under the same conditions that activate egg mRNPs in vitro. PMID- 2527241 TI - Analysis of fibronectin receptor function with monoclonal antibodies: roles in cell adhesion, migration, matrix assembly, and cytoskeletal organization. AB - We have developed two rat mAbs that recognize different subunits of the human fibroblast fibronectin receptor complex and have used them to probe the function of this cell surface heterodimer. mAb 13 recognizes the integrin class 1 beta polypeptide and mAb 16 recognizes the fibronectin receptor alpha polypeptide. We tested these mAbs for their inhibitory activities in cell adhesion, spreading, migration, and matrix assembly assays using WI38 human lung fibroblasts. mAb 13 inhibited the initial attachment as well as the spreading of WI38 cells on fibronectin and laminin substrates but not on vitronectin. Laminin-mediated adhesion was particularly sensitive to mAb 13. In contrast, mAb 16 inhibited initial cell attachment to fibronectin substrates but had no effect on attachment to either laminin or vitronectin substrates. When coated on plastic, both mAbs promoted WI38 cell spreading. However, mAb 13 (but not mAb 16) inhibited the radial outgrowth of cells from an explant on fibronectin substrates. mAb 16 also did not inhibit the motility of individual fibroblasts on fibronectin in low density culture and, in fact, substantially accelerated migration rates. In assays of the assembly of an extracellular fibronectin matrix by WI38 fibroblasts, both mAbs produced substantial inhibition in a concentration dependent manner. The inhibition of matrix assembly resulted from impaired retention of fibronectin on the cell surface. Treatment of cells with mAb 16 also resulted in a striking redistribution of cell surface fibronectin receptors from a streak-like pattern to a relatively diffuse distribution. Concomitant morphological changes included decreases in thick microfilament bundle formation and reduced adhesive contacts of the streak-like and focal contact type. Our results indicate that the fibroblast fibronectin receptor (a) functions in initial fibroblast attachment and in certain types of adhesive contact, but not in the later steps of cell spreading; (b) is not required for fibroblast motility but instead retards migration; and (c) is critically involved in fibronectin retention and matrix assembly. These findings suggest a central role for the fibronectin receptor in regulating cell adhesion and migration. PMID- 2527242 TI - Sex steroids and bone density in premenopausal and perimenopausal women. AB - Bone density begins to decline in women before menopause, and the degree of bone loss is variable. We performed a cross-sectional analysis on the entry data of a 5-yr prospective study of risk factors for osteoporosis to determine the correlation of bone density with serum sex steroid concentrations and body weight. We studied 292 healthy white women, aged 35-50 yr, who were menstruating regularly or had had menses in the past 12 months. Blood samples were drawn in the early follicular phase for estradiol (E2), testosterone (T), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). Free levels of E2 (FE2) and T (FT) were calculated based on total T and E2, SHBG, and albumin levels. Women were classified as premenopausal (FSH, less than 12 U/L) and perimenopausal (FSH greater than or equal to 12 U/L; n = 46; 16%). Bone density was measured by dual photon absorptiometry of the lumbar spine (L2-L4) and hip and by single photon absorptiometry of the wrist. Perimenopausal women were older than premenopausal women (45.5 +/- 3.5 and 41.0 +/- 3.9 yr, respectively), but did not differ in height or weight. While bone density did not correlate with age in each group, perimenopausal women had significantly lower bone density at the L2-L4 and femoral neck (L2-L4, 1.18 +/- 0.14 in perimenopausal and 1.24 +/- 0.12 g/cm2 in premenopausal women; femur, 0.84 +/- 0.11 in perimenopausal and 0.90 +/- 0.11 g/cm2 in premenopausal women; P less than 0.005). Body weight showed the strongest positive correlation with bone density. Log FT, percent FT, and FE2 percent correlated positively with bone density, even after controlling for weight. Log SHBG was negatively correlated with bone density in premenopausal women at the hip and wrist after controlling for weight. FSH was inversely correlated with bone density, and E2 and T were lower in perimenopausal than premenopausal women. These data suggest that women who are still menstruating may have relative deficiencies in both E2 and T, with reduced bone densities as a consequence. PMID- 2527243 TI - Increase in plasma melatonin, beta-endorphin, and cortisol after a 28.5-mile mountain race: relationship to performance and lack of effect of naltrexone. AB - Strenuous exercise increases plasma melatonin, cortisol, and beta-endorphin concentrations. Furthermore, a relationship between endogenous opioids and melatonin has been proposed. We measured plasma melatonin, cortisol, and beta endorphin in 46 subjects before and after a 28.5-mile high altitude race. Thirteen of the subjects received the orally active opioid antagonist naltrexone immediately before the race. The mean plasma melatonin, cortisol, and beta endorphin levels were higher after the race than before it; the melatonin results were confirmed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry assay of 12 subjects. Naltrexone had no effect on the increase in any of the three hormones. The run induced increases in plasma melatonin, beta-endorphin, and cortisol were negatively correlated with finishing time, but only the plasma beta-endorphin and cortisol rises correlated with each other. We conclude that prolonged exercise in trained athletes can increase plasma melatonin and that this rise is not due to the concomitant opioid release. PMID- 2527244 TI - Epinephrine suppresses stress-induced increases in plasma immunoreactive beta endorphin in humans. AB - The present study evaluated the hypothesis that increased plasma levels of epinephrine (EPI) stimulate immunoreactive beta-endorphin (i beta END) secretion in humans experiencing a mild stress. The stressor consisted of intraoral injections of a local anesthetic solution (with or without EPI) just before the surgical extraction of impacted third molars in 26 awake unsedated patients. The EPI group experienced a 30-fold increase in plasma EPI levels by 2 min after injection; these concentrations were physiologically active, as evidenced by increased pulse rate and systolic blood pressure. However, compared to a no EPI control group the EPI group had a significantly reduced i beta END response to the stressor, as evaluated by comparison of plasma levels at individual time points, maximal increases in plasma i beta END levels, and areas under the time response curve. Whereas there was no association between plasma levels of EPI and i beta END in the EPI group (r = 0.119; P = NS), EPI and i beta END levels were strongly related in the no EPI group (r = 0.82; P less than 0.001). These results do not support the hypothesis of a stimulatory effect for EPI on i beta END release and, instead, suggest that an inhibitory relationship may exist in humans experiencing stress. The association between EPI and i beta END responses observed in the control group during this form of stress appears to be due to activation of a common central neural element. PMID- 2527245 TI - Mg-ATPase activity and motility of native thick filaments isolated from the anterior byssus retractor muscle of Mytilus edulis. AB - A method for isolating native thick filaments from the anterior byssus retractor muscle (ABRM) of Mytilus edulis is described. Sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis showed that the isolated thick filament preparation contained mainly paramyosin and myosin but almost no actin. Electron microscopy of negatively stained preparations showed that the isolated thick filaments were tapered at both ends and of various sizes, in the range 5-31 microns in length and 51-94nm in width in the central region. Central bare zones were observed in the smaller filaments, but were not clearly seen in the larger filaments. Mg-ATPase activity of the isolated thick filaments was activated by skeletal muscle F-actin in a Ca2+-dependent manner. The maximal activity was about 20 nmol min-1 mg-1 thick filaments (20 degrees C, pH7.0). Motility of the thick filaments attached to latex beads (diameter, 2 microns) was also studied using the native actin cables of the freshwater alga, Chara. In the presence of Mg-ATP and Ca2+, the beads moved along the actin cables at a maximal velocity of about 1 micron s-1. In the absence of Ca2+, almost no movement was observed. These results show that the isolated thick filaments are structurally intact and retain the essential mechanochemical characteristics of the ABRM myosin. PMID- 2527246 TI - A model of crossbridge action: the effects of ATP, ADP and Pi. AB - We have explored a model of crossbridge kinetics that explains many of the effects on steady-state muscle contraction of ligands that bind to the nucleotide site on myosin. The mathematical model follows the basic framework for crossbridge function first established by A. F. Huxley. In the model, detached crossbridges initially bind in a weakly attached, A.M.D.Pi state (A, actin; M, myosin; D, ADP; Pi, orthophosphate) at the beginning of the region of positive force production. Pi release then results in transition to a strongly-bound A.M.D state, as has been suggested by other investigators from both biochemical and mechanical data. Mg2+ ADP release and subsequent crossbridge detachment due to Mg2+ ATP binding to the A.M state occur at the end of the region of positive force production. Work in a number of laboratories has now defined the effects on steady-state contraction of variations in the concentrations of Mg2+ ATP, Mg2+ ADP and Pi. These data provide valuable constraints that can be used to further refine current models. The maximum velocity of shortening (V max) and ATPase activity of muscle fibres exhibit classical saturation behaviour with respect to Mg2+ ATP concentration, with Mg2+ ADP acting as a competitive inhibitor. The model can reproduce this behaviour. The model also explains the observations that increasing [Mg2+ ATP] decreases isometric tension and increasing [Mg2+ ADP] increases tension. As the concentration of Pi increases, model predictions suggest that tension should decrease approximately as log[Pi], that ATPase activity should decrease less than tension and that V max should be almost unchanged, as has been found experimentally. The model also demonstrates that the connection between the parameters of contraction and the free energy of hydrolysis of Mg2+ ATP can be complex. PMID- 2527247 TI - Effect of K+, and other ligands on the thiol reactivity and tryptic cleavage pattern of scallop sarcoplasmic reticulum. AB - The kinetics of reaction of the thiol groups of both membranous and non-ionic detergent-solubilized Ca-ATPase of scallop sarcoplasmic reticulum towards 5,5' dithiobis(2-nitrobenzoate) were greatly modified in different ways by the presence of the following combinations of ligands: Ca2+, EGTA (no Ca2+), (ATPMg2- + EGTA) and (ATP + Ca2+). K+ was found to influence greatly the pattern of reactivity of the thiol groups of the scallop Ca-ATPase, modifying the kinetics of reaction differently according to the types of other ligand present. While all the thiol groups on the non-ionic detergent-solubilized Ca-ATPase were available for reaction in the absence of K+, whatever the combination of ligands, in the presence of K+, several groups became completely unreactive towards the reagent. In some cases the rate of inactivation of Ca-ATPase activity could be related to the rates of reaction of different kinetic classes of thiol group, according to the ligands present. Large differences were also seen in the tryptic cleavage pattern in the presence of the different ligands, and K+ led to major modifications in the products of digestion in the absence of nucleotide. An 80 kDa tryptic fragment was observed, as with lobster Ca-ATPase but unlike rabbit skeletal muscle Ca-ATPase. A complete amino-acid analysis of the scallop Ca ATPase was carried out. Differences in the non-polar amino-acid content from rabbit skeletal muscle Ca-ATPase may relate to the different lipid composition of the two membranes. PMID- 2527248 TI - Effect of phosphorylation on scallop sarcoplasmic reticulum. AB - Fragmented sarcoplasmic reticulum prepared from the cross-striated adductor muscle of the deep sea scallop (Placopecten magellanicus) was phosphorylated with inorganic phosphate to the E2P (ADP-insensitive) form. Negative staining of these preparations showed that the Ca-ATPase was organized into a quasi-crystalline array, which differed from the 'dimer ribbon' structure previously reported for the membrane under relaxing conditions (Castellani & Hardwicke, J. cell. Biol. 97 (1983) 557-61; Castellani et al., J. molec. Biol. 185 (1985) 579-94). In this new form there was only a single Ca-ATPase per unit cell. Dephosphorylation of the E2P membranes and incubation with substrate or substrate analogues in the absence of Ca2+ caused the 'dimer ribbon' structure to appear. These results imply that rotation of at least half of the Ca-ATPase subunits in the scallop sarcoplasmic reticulum may occur about an axis perpendicular to the plane of the membrane on conversion from the E2P state to the state corresponding to that existing in the relaxed muscle. PMID- 2527249 TI - Vasopressin-mediated forearm vasodilation in normal humans. Evidence for a vascular vasopressin V2 receptor. AB - Arginine vasopressin (AVP) is a potent vasopressor and antidiuretic neurohormone. However, when administered intravenously to humans, AVP causes forearm vasodilation. This effect has been attributed to sympathetic withdrawal, secondary to AVP-induced sensitization of baroreceptors. The possibility that AVP also causes forearm vasodilation directly has not been examined. Accordingly, the direct effect of AVP was determined by studying the forearm blood flow (FBF) response to intraarterial (IA) AVP infusion (0.01-1.0 ng/kg per min). Infusion of IA AVP increased FBF (96%) in the infused arm, but not the control arm, in a dose dependent manner. The role of specific AVP V1 receptors in mediating this FBF response was determined before and after pretreatment with a V1 antagonist (AVP A). AVP-A alone had no effect on FBF, but coadministration of AVP and AVP-A potentiated the vasodilatory response (223%). IA infusion of the V2 agonist, 1 desamino[8-D-arginine] vasopressin, caused a dose-dependent increase in FBF. These findings suggest that AVP causes direct, dose-dependent vasodilation in the human forearm that may be mediated by V2 vasopressinergic receptors. In contrast, AVP infusion caused digital vasoconstriction that was blocked by AVP-A, whereas dDAVP did not affect digital blood flow. Thus, AVP induces regionally selective vascular effects, with concurrent forearm vasodilation and digital vasoconstriction. PMID- 2527250 TI - Characterization and cytoskeletal association of a major cell surface glycoprotein, GP 140, in human neutrophils. AB - The binding of specific ligands to neutrophil cell surface receptors and the association of these receptors with the cytoskeleton may represent an essential step in activation. To identify surface proteins that are linked to the cytoskeleton during activation, neutrophil 125I-surface labeled plasma membranes were extracted with Triton X-100, and the soluble and insoluble (cytoskeleton) fractions analyzed by SDS-PAGE and autoradiography. The major cell surface proteins recruited to the cytoskeleton after activation with Con A, FMLP, zymosan activated serum, or immune complexes possessed a relative molecular mass in the range of 80 to 13 kD. In addition to these proteins, WGA stimulates the recruitment of a 140-kD protein (GP 140) to the cytoskeletal fraction. That GP 140 is a WGA-binding protein was verified by Western blotting and WGA-Sepharose affinity chromatography. The Coomassie blue staining pattern of the WGA cytoskeletal fraction revealed major protein bands at apparent molecular weights of greater than 200 (approximately 250, 240, 235), 200, 115, 82/78 (a doublet), 56, 43, 36, and 18 kD. Labeling cells with 32PO4 before WGA treatment indicated that the cytoskeletal proteins with molecular weights of 115, 82/78, and 72 kD, and a 40-kD detergent soluble protein, are phosphorylated during activation. The 78 kD cytoskeletal phosphoprotein co-migrates with the lower subunit of erythrocyte (RBC) band 4.1 and shows strong cross-reactivity with RBC anti-band 4.1 antibody. Phosphorylation of cytoskeletal proteins like 4.1 may be involved in the regulation of interactions between GP 140 and the actin-containing cytoskeleton. Unlike the C3bi receptor, GP 140 is a major surface component of unactivated PMNs, has no stoichiometrically related 95-kD subunit, and has two isoforms with pIs in the range of 6.4 to 6.6. Under conditions that result in an increased expression of the C3bi receptor (such as treatment with the Ca2+ ionophore A23187), the amount of GP 140 on the PMN cell surface appears to be significantly reduced. The interaction of GP 140 with the cytoskeleton during activation suggests that GP 140 may play an important role in neutrophil functional responses. PMID- 2527251 TI - Role of antigen selectivity in autoimmune responses to the Ku (p70/p80) antigen. AB - Levels of anti-Ku (p70/p80) antibodies were measured longitudinally in sera from four individuals with systemic lupus erythematosus or related disorders. Antibodies to the native Ku antigen (p70/p80 complex) varied over a range of up to 577-fold. Large fluctuations were also observed in the levels of autoantibodies to several distinct epitopes of the Ku (p70/p80) antigen. Levels of these individual autoantibody populations generally paralleled one another, suggesting that they are coordinately regulated. A similar pattern of anti-DNA antibody fluctuation was seen in some sera. To examine the possibility that these autoantibodies were generated by polyclonal B cell activation, the levels of anti Ku (p70/p80) and anti-DNA antibodies were compared to the levels of antibodies to Escherichia coli proteins, tetanus toxoid, and bovine insulin, transferrin, cytochrome c, serum albumin, and thyroglobulin. In sera from the same individual, anti-Ku (p70/p80) antibodies were sometimes produced in the complete absence of polyclonal activation, and at other times were accompanied by increased polyclonal activation. Anti-DNA antibody levels more closely paralleled the level of polyclonal activation than did the anti-Ku (p70/p80) levels. These studies suggest that anti-Ku (p70/p80) antibodies are generated by an antigen-selective mechanism, but that polyclonal activation frequently, although not invariably, accompanies autoantibody production. This observation is consistent with the possibility that polyclonal activation might be secondary to autoantibody production. PMID- 2527252 TI - Complementary DNA for the folate binding protein correctly predicts anchoring to the membrane by glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol. AB - Membrane bound and soluble forms of a high-affinity folate binding protein have been found in kidney, placenta, serum, milk, and in several cell lines. The two forms have similar binding characteristics for folates, are immunologically cross reactive and based upon limited amino acid sequence data, are nearly identical. Based upon pulse-chase experiments, a precursor-product relationship has been suggested. The membrane form has been shown to mediate the transport of folate in cells grown in physiological concentrations of folate. A function for the soluble form has not yet been identified. We constructed a cDNA library from a human carcinoma cell line, Caco-2, which expresses the membrane form abundantly. The library was screened and a near full-length cDNA for the folate binder was isolated. Transfection of COS cells with the cDNA inserted in an expression vector resulted in marked overexpression of a membrane-associated folate binder as assessed by direct binding of radiolabeled folate and by indirect immunofluorescence. The deduced amino acid sequence is not consistent with a typical membrane spanning domain but rather with a signal for anchoring via a glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol linkage. Release of the binder with a phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C strongly supports this hypothesis. PMID- 2527253 TI - Human platelets modulate edema formation in isolated rabbit lungs. AB - The role of platelet glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PD) in mediating the effects of human platelets on oxidant-induced edema in the isolated perfused rabbit lung was investigated using dehydroepiandrosterone, a specific steroidal inhibitor of G-6-PD. Xanthine oxidase (0.003 and 0.012 U/ml) caused lung edema that was attenuated by coinfusion of washed human platelets. Platelets that were incubated with DEA to inhibit G-6-PD activity augmented xanthine oxidase-induced lung edema and pulmonary hypertension at both doses of xanthine oxidase. Infusion of papaverine to maintain stable pulmonary artery (PA) pressures, incubation of G 6-PD-inhibited platelets with acetylsalicylate, or infusion of a thromboxane prostaglandin endoperoxide receptor site antagonist, SQ 29548, into the lung perfusate prevented augmentation of lung edema and the PA pressor response by G-6 PD-inhibited platelets. It was concluded that antioxidant-intact platelets attenuate oxidant-induced lung edema by preventing increased membrane permeability, and that G-6-PD-inhibited platelets augment lung edema through hydrostatic mechanisms mediated by release of platelet cyclooxygenase products. PMID- 2527254 TI - Receptor-mediated phagocytosis in human neutrophils is associated with increased formation of inositol phosphates and diacylglycerol. Elevation in cytosolic free calcium and formation of inositol phosphates can be dissociated from accumulation of diacylglycerol. AB - Phagocytosis of C3bi- or IgG-opsonized yeast particles in human neutrophils was found to be associated with an increased formation of inositol phosphates and diacylglycerol. Pertussis toxin only marginally affected phagocytosis of IgG- and C3bi-opsonized particles and the associated formation of second messengers. Forskolin, which induced a threefold rise of cellular cAMP, however, markedly inhibited both C3bi- and IgG-mediated phagocytosis as well as the particle induced formation of inositol phosphates and diacylglycerol. These observations are in contrast to what was found to occur with chemotactic factors and indicate that chemotactic and phagocytic signaling can be regulated independently in human neutrophils. Since C3bi-mediated phagocytosis has been shown to occur at vanishingly low cytosolic free calcium levels, calcium-depleted cells were used to study the importance of the inositol cycle for the engulfment of C3bi opsonized particles. Despite a total lack of receptor-induced formation of inositol phosphates, a significantly increased accumulation of diacylglycerol accompanied the ingestion of C3bi-opsonized particles. These data show that the engulfment of C3bi-opsonized particles can occur independently of both a calcium transient and an increased inositol phosphate production. However, the observed accumulation of diacylglycerol, not derived from phosphoinositides, suggests that this second messenger play a role in the control of the engulfment process. PMID- 2527255 TI - In vivo handling of soluble complement fixing Ab/dsDNA immune complexes in chimpanzees. AB - We used soluble, C-fixing antibody/dsDNA IC to investigate immune complex (IC) handling and erythrocyte (E)-to-phagocyte transfer in chimpanzees. IC bound efficiently to chimpanzee E in vitro and showed minimal release with further in vitro incubation in the presence of serum in EDTA (less than or equal to 15% within 1 h). These IC also bound rapidly to E in vivo (70-80% binding within 1 min) and did not show detectable release from E in the peripheral circulation after infusion in vivo (less than or equal to 2% within 1 h). Despite such slow C mediated release of IC from E, IC were rapidly stripped from E by the mononuclear phagocyte system (T50 for E-IC1500 = 5 min) without sequestration of E. Treatment of the chimpanzees with the anti-Fc gamma RIII MAb 3G8 impaired the clearance of infused IC. This effect was most evident on the fraction of IC500 which did not bind to E and which presumably had captured less C3b (pre-MAb 3G8 T50: 45 min vs. post-MAb 3G8 T50: 180 min). With IC bound in vitro to E before infusion, anti-Fc gamma RIII MAb treatment led to significant amounts of non-E bound IC detectable in the circulation. Thus, the anti-Fc gamma RIII MAb appeared to interfere with the ability of fixed tissue mononuclear phagocytes to take up/or retain IC after their release from E. Both rapid stripping of IC from E, despite slow complement mediated release of IC from E in the peripheral circulation, and blockade of IC clearance with anti-Fc gamma RIII MAb indicate that the interaction of IC with the fixed tissue phagocyte involves qualitatively different mechanisms than the interaction of IC with E. Fc gamma receptors appear to play an important role in the transfer and retention of IC by the phagocyte. PMID- 2527257 TI - Improving conditions for pediatric dental practice are part of the changing environment for dentistry. AB - A review is provided of the changing and general improving environment for pediatric and general dental practice. Emphasis is placed on developments in manpower, changing delivery patterns and the economics of practice. PMID- 2527258 TI - Management of the difficult child: a survey of pediatric dentists' use of restraints, sedation and general anesthesia. AB - The findings of a 1988 survey of 616 pediatric dentists' attitudes and utilization of non-pharmacologic and pharmacologic strategies for treating the difficult pediatric patient are described. Wide variations appear to exist with regard to the use of restraints and aversive techniques, parent presence in the operatory, use of sedation, and general anesthesia. Variables including practice location, caries prevalence, patient populations, individual training experiences and skills, and liability costs clearly have an impact on pediatric dentists perception of the appropriateness of various modalities and their choice of application. There appear to be more concerns regarding the issue of informed consent, the appropriateness of hand-over-mouth, particularly HOMAR, and the use and overuse of sedation and general anesthesia. In the area of risk management, although many report high proficiency and comfort levels in their ability to recognize and manage in-office medical emergencies, others using various forms of in-office sedation, however, report having minimal emergency and monitoring equipment or training. PMID- 2527256 TI - Novel primary thymic defect with T lymphocytes expressing gamma delta T cell receptor. AB - Flow cytometric analysis of the peripheral blood mononuclear cells in a six year old girl with a primary cellular immune deficiency showed a normal fraction of CD3 positive T cells. Most (70%) of the CD3 positive cells, however, expressed the gamma delta and not the alpha beta T cell receptor. Immunoprecipitation and sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) showed that most of the gamma delta T cell receptors existed as disulphide-linked heterodimers. Proliferative responses to mitogens were severely reduced, but specific antibody responses after vaccination could be detected. A thymic biopsy specimen showed severe abnormalities of both the thymic lymphoid and epithelial component with abortive medullary differentiation and almost an entire lack of Hassall's corpuscles. This patient represents a case of primary immune deficiency syndrome not previously described. Thymic deficiency associated with a high proportion of T cells expressing the gamma delta T cell receptor has been described in nude mice, and it is suggested that the immune deficiency of this patient may represent a human analogue. PMID- 2527259 TI - Report of project USAP: the use of sedative agents in pediatric dentistry. AB - Project USAP was performed to examine the use of sedation in pedodontics; part one studied the use of sedative agents by pediatric dentists, and part two examined the use of sedation in postgraduate teaching programs. In part I all 2,040 members of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry were sent questionnaires in 1985 concerning their use of sedation, and 1,105 responded. In regard to their use of nitrous oxide alone, 55 percent of practitioners responded that they used nitrous oxide less than 10 percent of the time. In regard to other types of sedative agents, most practitioners used little, if any sedation; 88 percent of practitioners used sedation for less than 10 percent of their patients. In a typical three-month period, the 1,105 respondents performed 33,465 sedations. Of that number, almost half (14,802) were administered by only 64 practitioners. Compared with other geographic areas, there appeared to be greater use of sedation in the south/southeast and west regions of the United States. The heavier use of sedation by some practitioners was not related to the percentage of their handicapped patients who received sedation. In part II, all 59 postgraduate programs in pediatric dentistry were surveyed during 1985 to examine the use of sedation by postgraduate students. There were wide differences in frequency and type of experience of students with different drugs. It is concluded that when a healthy child receives a sedative agent for dental treatment, the type of drug and drug dosage depend more on the biases of the individual practitioner, than on the requirements of the patient. PMID- 2527260 TI - Right to accept patients. PMID- 2527262 TI - Position of the American Dietetic Association: nutrition services for children with special health care needs. AB - The phrase "children with special health care needs" covers a group of children with a broad range of chronic illnesses and handicapping conditions. Estimates of their prevalence in the child population range from 10% to 20%. Despite improvements in meeting their complex needs, major gaps in services exist, particularly those related to nutritional support, a crucial factor needed for these children to achieve their maximum potential. PMID- 2527261 TI - Type I diabetes in an adolescent with common variable immunodeficiency. AB - A male adolescent with common variable immunodeficiency developed type I diabetes approximately 1 year after the initiation of immunoglobulin therapy. Immunologic evaluation revealed decreased numbers of T cells and an intrinsic B cell defect in immunoglobulin production. Lymphocytes from the patient failed to generate normal suppressor activity. There were no insulin or islet cell antibodies present in the patient's serum or in the commercial immunoglobulin preparations he received. The patient's HLA phenotype included HLA-DR3 and 4, placing him genetically at high risk for type I diabetes. PMID- 2527264 TI - Tolerance induction of allo-class II H-2 antigen-reactive L3T4+ helper T cells and prolonged survival of the corresponding class II H-2-disparate skin graft. AB - The present study investigates the effects of i.v. presensitization with class II H-2-disparate allogeneic cells on various L3T4+ T cell functions including the capability of rejecting the corresponding allogeneic skin graft. C57BL/6 (B6) mice were i.v. presensitized with class II H-2 disparate B6-C-H-2bm12 (bm12) spleen cells. Such presensitization did not affect the bm12-specific L3T4+ T cell mediated proliferative and interleukin 2 (IL-2)-producing capacities. A single cell suspension of (B6 x bm12)F1 spleen cells was depleted of APC by two round passages over Sephadex G-10 columns. This APC-depleted fraction of (B6 x bm12)F1 cells failed to stimulate B6 responding cells in mixed lymphocyte reactions (MLR). The addition of recombinant IL-1 to the MLR restored anti-bm12 MLR responses, indicating that APC-depleted (B6 x bm12)F1 cells bear bm12 alloantigens but are unable to stimulate B6 anti-bm12 L3T4+ T cells. A single i.v. administration of APC-depleted (B6 x bm12)F1 cells into B6 mice resulted in almost complete abrogation of the capacity of recipient B6 lymphoid cells to give anti-bm12 MLR and IL2 production. This suppression was bm12 alloantigen-specific and attributed to the elimination or functional impairment of anti-bm12 T cell clones rather than the induction of suppressor cells. The tolerance was also observed in graft-rejection responses. The strikingly prolonged survival of bm12 skin grafts was produced when grafts were implanted into B6 mice which had been presensitized with APC-depleted, but not with untreated (B6 x bm12)F1 spleen cells. These results indicate that allo-class II H-2 antigen-reactive L3T4+ T cells are rendered tolerant by i.v. presensitization with APC-depleted fraction of the corresponding allogeneic cells. PMID- 2527265 TI - Pretreatment of cloned helper T lymphocytes with IL-2 induces unresponsiveness to antigen and concanavalin A, associated with decreased inositol phosphate and diacylglycerol production. AB - IL-2 pretreatment of cloned Th lymphocytes has been demonstrated to render these cells unresponsive to subsequent stimulation through the TCR. These cells remain unresponsive for up to 7 days after removal from IL-2. Cells rendered unresponsive to Ag by pretreatment with IL-2 also demonstrated reduced increases in intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) after stimulation, hence this unresponsiveness is believed to result from absence of sufficient [Ca2+]i for activation of lymphokine genes. We have confirmed these observations, and demonstrate that only that portion of the [Ca2+]i increase derived from extracellular sources is inhibited in IL-2 pretreated cells. Further, inositol degradation and diacylglycerol production after stimulation are observed to be markedly reduced in cells rendered unresponsive by IL-2 pretreatment, suggesting that signal transduction leading to cleavage of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate after Ag receptor engagement is incomplete in these cells. However, treatment of IL-2 pretreated cells with AlF4- results in both production of inositol phosphates as well as increased intracellular calcium, suggesting that phospholipase C remains active in these cells. It appears that chronic IL-2 exposure regulates Th activation by inhibiting the signal transduction which follows engagement of the TCR. PMID- 2527263 TI - Noradrenaline and cardiac hypertrophy in the rat: changes in morphology, blood pressure and ventricular performance. AB - Noradrenaline hydrochloride (160 micrograms base/kg per h) or vehicle were infused subcutaneously for 11 days into 35 male Wistar-Furth rats using osmotic minipumps. Chronic noradrenaline infusion produced moderate hypertrophy of both ventricles without causing tissue oedema. Left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy was concentric with no change in cavity volume, increased mass: volume ratio (approximately 50%) and increased fibre diameter (approximately 25%). In the conscious rat, noradrenaline produced only a slight increase in mean arterial pressure (13%) and heart rate (11%) but a marked increase in the variability of mean blood pressure (250%). The extent of LV hypertrophy was not related to the level of mean blood pressure or to its variability. In the anaesthetized rat, peak cardiac pumping ability was normal before and after cardiac autonomic blockade. Peak pressure-generating ability during aortic occlusion was increased in hypertrophied hearts before autonomic blockade but was similar to control rats after autonomic blockade. Chronic noradrenaline administration produces cardiac hypertrophy which has many similarities to hypertensive cardiac hypertrophy but no clear association with the level of blood pressure. PMID- 2527266 TI - Neonatal injection of CD3 antibody into nonobese diabetic mice reduces the incidence of insulitis and diabetes. AB - Over 80% of nonobese diabetic (NOD) mice develop lymphocytic infiltrates of their pancreatic islets (insulitis) by 6 wk of age and 50% of the females are diabetic by 6 mo of age. The incidence of insulitis in NOD mice injected once as neonates with 250 micrograms of the CD3 antibody, 145.2C11, was 8% at 10 wk of age, increasing to 25% at 32 wk of age. Fewer than 10% of these animals developed diabetes by 8 mo of age. Neonatal administration of 145.2C11 reduced the proliferative responses of spleen cells to mitogen stimulation 2 and 4 wk postinjection and expression of TCR was reduced 1 to 5 wk postinjection. The percentage of CD4 and CD8 cells in the spleen was transiently reduced after injection and the frequency of Pgp-1+-high cells (putative memory cells) was increased 2 to 4 wk postinjection, suggesting that in vivo administration of the antibody caused some T cells to divide as well as transiently reducing T cell numbers. IL-2R expression was not detected on spleen cells in the 4 wk after antibody injection. The phenotypic and functional changes after neonatal CD3 antibody injection resolved by 8 wk of age. The control and injected mice grew normally and made equivalent IgG antibody responses to injected human IgG. Neonatally injected 145.2C11 antibody was cleared from the circulation with a terminal half-life approximating to 21 days but greater than 90% of antigen binding activity was lost 6 days after injection. Protection from diabetes did not follow neonatal elimination of T cells with CD4 and CD8 antibodies, nor the injection of a TCR subset antibody, F23.1. Our data suggest that the neonatal T cell repertoire is open to modulation by a single injection of a CD3 antibody and they offer a new experimental approach to immunotherapy in an animal model of type 1 diabetes. PMID- 2527267 TI - Inhibitory effect of anti-class II antibody on the spontaneous activation of B cells in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Analysis with IL-1 production and IL-1 receptor expression. AB - The mechanism of the spontaneous activation of B cells in patients with SLE was analyzed from the standpoint of the production of IL-1 from B cells and the expression of IL-1R on B cells. SLE B cells spontaneously produced IL-1-like factors which stimulated murine thymocyte proliferative responses. Their m.w. was about 17,000 and their isoelectric point was 4.8. The IL-1-like activity produced by B cells was absorbed with rabbit anti-IL-1 alpha antibody, but not with anti IL-1 beta antibody. The differentiation of SLE B cells was enhanced by rIL-1 alpha, beta or IL-1-like factors produced by SLE B cells in a concentration dependent manner. SLE B cells expressed large number of IL-1R detected by FITC conjugated IL-1 alpha. By a Percoll gradient density centrifugation, IL-1 producing cells and B cells responsive to IL-1 were enriched in a higher density fraction, but were reduced in a lower density fraction. IL-1R-positive B cells were enriched in the lower density fraction, but were depleted in the higher density fraction. However, the expression of IL-1R on the lower density B cells was reduced by 2-day culture. The expression of IL-1R on the higher density B cells was increased during a 2-day culture. Anti-class II antibody inhibited the production of IL-1R on the higher density B cells. These results suggest that the cellular interaction among B precursor cells mediated by class II Ag induces the production of IL-1 and the expression of its receptors on their surface and the interaction between IL-1 and its receptors stimulates B precursor cells to spontaneously differentiate into Ig-producing cells as an autocrine mechanism in patients with SLE. PMID- 2527268 TI - Transforming growth factor-beta 1 selectively inhibits IL-3-dependent mast cell proliferation without affecting mast cell function or differentiation. AB - Transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-beta 1) is an important regulator of cell growth, differentiation, and function. We show that TGF-beta 1 selectively inhibits IL-3-dependent mouse bone marrow derived mast cell (MBMMC) proliferation without affecting MBMMC function or differentiation. TGF-beta 1 significantly decreased [3H]thymidine uptake by IL-3-dependent MBMMC in a dose-dependent manner with 50% inhibition of proliferation occurring with a TGF-beta 1 concentration of 0.1 ng/ml. A brief (i.e., 30 min) incubation of MBMMC with TGF-beta 1 is sufficient to inhibit IL-3-induced proliferation of MBMMC (cultured in the absence of TGF-beta 1) for 24 to 48 h. The inhibitory effect of TGF-beta 1 on the IL-3-dependent proliferation of MBMMC is not cytotoxic as evident from the absence of MBMMC trypan blue staining, the retained functional characteristics of the MBMMC cultured in TGF-beta 1, and the reversibility of the TGF-beta 1 induced inhibition of IL-3 dependent MBMMC proliferation. MBMMC grown in TGF-beta 1 acutely (24 to 48 h) or chronically (7 to 14 days) do not exhibit functional differences in performed or newly generated mediator secretion (Ag/IgE or calcium ionophore A23187 induced MBMMC beta-hexosaminidase or leukotriene C4 release) from MBMMC grown in the absence of TGF-beta 1. In addition, MBMMC cultured for 2 wk in TGF-beta 1 do not show evidence of differentiation as assessed by cellular histamine content or Alcian blue/safranin staining. Thus, TGF-beta 1 is an important negative regulator of IL-3-dependent mast cell proliferation in vitro, selectively inhibiting IL-3-dependent MBMMC proliferation without affecting MBMMC function or differentiation. PMID- 2527269 TI - Interaction between hybrid mouse monoclonal antibodies and the human high affinity IgG FcR, huFc gamma RI, on U937. Involvement of only one of the mIgG heavy chains in receptor binding. AB - Here we have used hybrid mouse IgG1-2a and IgG2a-2b mAb to demonstrate that the interaction between the human high-affinity IgG FcR (huFc gamma RI) and monomeric mouse IgG2a mAb requires only one of the mIgG2a H chains. Recently, we reported a method for the generation and isolation of hybrid hybridomas, producing hybrid mouse mAb. Using this method we have obtained hybrid mouse (m)IgG1-2a and mIgG2a 2b mAb reacting with either horseradish peroxidase or human IgA1 (monospecific mAb) or with both Ag (bispecific mAb). Using protein A- or Ag-affinity chromatography purified hybrid mAb, we demonstrate here the binding of monomeric hybrid mIgG1-2a and mIgG2a-2b mAb to huFc gamma R on U937 cells, whereas no binding could be observed to the K562 cell line. Monomeric mouse IgG2a mAb and human IgG1 were found to be capable of inhibiting the binding of these hybrid mIgG1-2a and mIgG2a-2b mAb in a manner similar to the way they inhibited binding of monomeric mIgG2a mAb to U937 cells; this is in contrast to our findings for mIgG1 and mIgG2b mAb which did not inhibit the binding of both hybrid mAb. In addition, the binding of the hybrid mIgG1-2a and mIgG2a-2b mAb could be blocked by mAb TB-3, which is known to block huFc gamma RI-mediated binding by the "Kurlander phenomenon" and not by the anti-Fc gamma RII mAb CIKM5 and IV.3. These results indicate that both types of monomeric hybrid mAb are bound by the huFc gamma RI. Scatchard plots of mIgG2a, hybrid mIgG1-2a, and mIgG2a-2b mAb binding revealed similar numbers of binding sites and similar affinity constants of huFc gamma RI for these mAb (0.9 to 3.6 x 10(8) M-1). These results suggest that huFc gamma RI, present on the U937 cell line, are capable of binding monomeric hybrid mIgG1-2a and mIgG2a-2b mAb, and that this interaction requires only one of the mIgG2a H chains. PMID- 2527270 TI - Effect of membrane phospholipids on activation of the alternative complement pathway. AB - Although some of the membrane glycoproteins that serve as activators or regulators of C activation have been identified, the influence of membrane lipids has not been studied extensively. A model of alternative C pathway activation was established using liposomes composed of cholesterol and synthetic phospholipids. Liposomes containing phosphatidylcholine (PC) as the sole phospholipid did not activate C as measured by C3 binding after incubation in normal human serum containing 2.5 mM MgCl2 and 10 mM EGTA. When phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) was included as 20% or more of the phospholipid, C3 binding was observed. C3 binding to liposomes was inhibited by salicylhydroxamic acid indicating binding through the C3 thioester bond. The phospholipid composition did not influence C3 binding to liposomes in an unregulated system of C3, B, D, and P indicating equivalent C3b binding sites on activating and nonactivating liposomes. When the regulatory proteins H and I were added to the other components, liposomes containing PE bound three times more C3 than PC liposomes suggesting that the phospholipid affects C3 regulation. This was tested directly in a radiolabeled H binding assay. In the presence of equal amounts of C3b, PC liposomes showed a greater number of high affinity H binding sites than PE liposomes. Using different PE derivatives, C activation could be directly related to the phospholipid polar head group. Liposomes containing PE, trinitrophenyl-PE or monomethyl-PE did activate the alternative C pathway, whereas those containing dimethyl-PE, PC, or phosphatidylserine did not. These studies provide evidence that primary and secondary amino groups on lipid membranes can decrease the interaction between H and C3b and provide sites for alternative pathway activation. PMID- 2527271 TI - Molecular basis for a polymorphism involving Fc receptor II on human monocytes. AB - IgG Fc receptor II (Fc gamma RII) on human monocytes is polymorphic with respect to its appearance on gels after isoelectric focusing and with respect to its ability to mediate T lymphocyte proliferation induced by murine anti-CD3 mAb of the IgG1 isotype (i.e., its ability to bind murine IgG1). To determine the molecular basis for this polymorphism, we isolated total cellular RNA from PBMC of responders and nonresponders (defined by Leu-4-induced [3H] thymidine incorporation) and synthesized corresponding cDNA. Sequences encoding the extracellular domain of Fc gamma RII were then amplified using the Taq polymerase chain reaction. Amplified DNA fragments were cloned into pUC vectors, and sequenced. Analysis of clones from two nonresponders revealed a single base change (G for A) at position 519, which would result in the substitution of a histidine for an arginine at residue 133 in the mature Fc gamma RII protein. These findings suggest that the polymorphism involving human monocyte Fc gamma RII results from allelic variation of a single gene. PMID- 2527273 TI - Production of large numbers of hybridomas producing monoclonal antibodies against rat IgE using mast cell-deficient w/wv and sl/sld strains of mice. AB - A number of different mouse strains and immunization protocols were used to attempt to make monoclonal antibodies against rat IgE for use in studies of the structure, biological activities and regulation of this class of antibody. Successful production of large numbers of monoclonal antibodies was achieved when mast cell deficient (w/wv and sl/sld) but not conventional (BALB/c, CAF1 or SJL) mice were used. These results suggest that the poor response of conventional strains of mice to rat IgE may be due to the presence of mast cells bearing high affinity receptors for IgE in these mice. PMID- 2527272 TI - Binding of mitogenic plant lectins to human lymphocytes. Flow cytometric analysis. AB - Several plant lectins, such as phytohaemagglutinin (PHA), pokeweed mitogen (PWM), concanavalin A (ConA), Maclura pumifera (MPA) and Pisum sativum agglutinin (PSA), are potent mitogens for human lymphocytes. The pattern of activation induced, however, is not uniform for all mitogenic lectins. The different biological effects following lectin activation of human lymphocytes might be due at least in part to a differential binding of the various lectins to lymphocyte subsets. We have therefore studied the binding of five mitogenic plant lectins, namely PHA, PWM, ConA, MPA and PSA to three major human lymphocyte subsets as defined by anti CD4, anti-CD8 and anti-CD16 monoclonal antibodies. Dual colour, flow cytometric analysis employing PE-conjugated monoclonal antibodies and FITC-conjugated lectins revealed that all subsets uniformly show high binding of PHA, whereas two different populations, one high binding and the other low binding, can be detected with PWM, ConA, MPA and PSA. PMID- 2527274 TI - Randomized dose range study of a recombinant hepatitis B vaccine produced in mammalian cells and containing the S and PreS2 sequences. AB - The safety and immunogenicity of different doses (2, 5, 10, and 20 micrograms of a recombinant hepatitis B virus (rHBV) vaccine containing the S and PreS2 sequences and produced in mammalian cells were compared to those of a plasma derived hepatitis B virus vaccine (Hevac B Pasteur) in 482 volunteers. Local and general side effects were mild and transient. No transaminase level elevation and autoantibody production were observed. The antibody to hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) seroconversion rates did not differ in the groups receiving the rHBV vaccine and the subjects receiving the plasma-derived vaccine. Both vaccines elicited levels of antibodies to HBsAg in greater than 90% of the participants. Geometric mean titers of antibodies to HBsAg induced by the 10- and 20-micrograms doses of the rHBV vaccine did not differ from that induced by the plasma-derived vaccine and were higher than those induced by the 2- and 5-micrograms rHBV vaccine doses. The striking feature of the rHBV vaccine compared to the plasma derived vaccine was an early and high production of antibodies to PreS2, which may constitute an advantage in prevention of hepatitis B virus infection. PMID- 2527275 TI - Characterization of de novo folate synthesis in Pneumocystis carinii and Toxoplasma gondii: potential for screening therapeutic agents. AB - Drug therapy studies imply that Pneumocystis carinii and Toxoplasma gondii possess the enzymes necessary for de novo folate synthesis. To verify this, incorporation of [3H]paraaminobenzoic acid [( 3H]PABA) into reduced folates by P. carinii and T. gondii was investigated. Both organisms synthesized tritiated reduced folates. In P. carinii, 10-formyltetrahydrofolate and tetrahydrofolate, and in T. gondii, 5-formyltetrahydrofolate were the major synthesized folates. P. carinii remained metabolically active in vitro for only a few days. Because current systems for screening antipneumocystis agents are cumbersome, the utility of this assay system for screening therapeutic agents was investigated. Sulfonamides and pentamidine efficiently inhibited de novo folate synthesis in P. carinii. Inhibitors of dihydrofolate reductase such as trimethoprim and trimetrexate were poor inhibitors for P. carinii but efficient inhibitors for T. gondii. This study demonstrates the first unambiguous evidence of metabolic activity in P. carinii, and provides a potential assay for efficiently screening antipneumocystis drugs in vitro. PMID- 2527276 TI - Phytohemagglutinin mitogenic response of normal individuals vaccinated with hepatitis B vaccine. AB - The phytohemagglutinin (PHA) blastogenic response of normal healthy individuals was studied before and after vaccination with hepatitis B surface antigen. The PHA response was suppressed 2 d after the first dose of vaccine but was not affected by the second and the third doses of vaccine. The suppressed PHA blastogenic response on day 7 was not enhanced by the addition of interleukin-2 or indomethacin even though an increase in cell number expressing CD25 was observed. The removal of CD4+ or CD8+ cells enhanced the PHA response but only on days 2 or 4 and not at other sampling times, which suggests that the suppression is mediated by CD4+ or CD8+ cells. The addition of interleukin-2 alone or with PHA did not reverse the suppression at any time tested. In vitro induction of suppressor cells was performed and was blocked by the addition of indomethacin at the time of culture initiation. PMID- 2527277 TI - Augmentation of streptozotocin-induced hyperglycemia in mice by prior treatment with complete Freund's adjuvant. AB - The effect of complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA), in combination with streptozotocin (STZ), on pancreatic insulin content, plasma glucose, and pancreatic histopathology were studied in male Balb/c mice. One injection of CFA, followed 24 h later by a single dose of 100 mg/kg of STZ (group I), produced a 92% (p less than 0.01) reduction in pancreatic insulin, a 54% (p less than 0.01) increase in glucagon content, and severe hyperglycemia. The depletion of pancreatic insulin was associated with degranulation, necrosis of beta cells, and reduction of the apparent islet size. Focal pancreatitis, without apparent islet inflammation, occurred in all animals in this group. After treatment with STZ alone (group II), pancreatic insulin content decreased 73% (p less than 0.01), whereas plasma glucose levels, even though being in the hyperglycemic range, were significantly lower (p less than 0.02) than the mice in group I. Although pyknotic and hypertrophic cell nuclei could be observed in several islets of mice from group II, major histopathological changes, such as pancreatitis and extensive beta cell necrosis seen in group I, were absent. The results show that in the Balb/c mouse strain, a nonspecific insult by CFA prior to a cell-specific cytotoxic insult markedly enhanced destruction of beta cells and the development of hyperglycemia. PMID- 2527278 TI - Providing JCAHPO approved CEU's for the ophthalmic staff. PMID- 2527279 TI - Research methods: a primer of experimental and nonexperimental designs. PMID- 2527280 TI - Diabetic retinopathy (continuing education credit). PMID- 2527281 TI - Just a spoon full of sugar makes the medicine go down. PMID- 2527282 TI - Eye safety tips: not all toy guns are toys. PMID- 2527283 TI - Focus on areas of practice. PMID- 2527284 TI - Germinal center B cells and mixed leukocyte reactions. AB - The present study was undertaken to determine if germinal center (GC) B cells are sufficiently activated to stimulate mixed leukocyte reactions (MLR). Percoll density fractionation and a panning technique with peanut agglutinin (PNA) were used to isolate GC B cells from the lymph nodes of immune mice. The GC B cells were treated with mitomycin C or irradiation and used to stimulate allogeneic or syngeneic splenic T cells in the MLR. Controls included high-density (HD) B cells prepared from spleens of the same mice and HD B cells activated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and dextran sulfate. GC B cells bound high amount sof PNA (i.e., PNAhi). Similarly, the LPS-dextran sulfate-activated B cells were PNAhi. Treatment with neuraminidase rendered the PNAlo HD B cells PNAhi. GC B cells and the LPS-dextran sulfate-activated HD B cells stimulated a potent MLR, while the untreated HD B cells did not. However, following neuraminidase treatment, the resulting PNAhi HD B cell population was able to induce an MLR. The PNA marker appeared to be an indicator of stimulatory activity, but incubating the cells with PNA to bind the cell surface ligand did not interfere with the MLR. GC B cells were also capable of stimulating a syngeneic MLR in most experiments although this was not consistently obtained. It appears that germinal centers represent a unique in vivo microenvironment that provides the necessary signals for B cells to become highly effective antigen-presenting cells. PMID- 2527285 TI - Functional analysis of monocyte-macrophages derived from nonadherent cord blood progenitor cells: correlation with the ontogeny of cell surface proteins. AB - In this study we examine some of the phenotypic and functional characteristics that accompany the differentiation of monocyte-macrophages from nonadherent precursors present in cord blood. Class II major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules identified by monoclonal antibody (mAb) L243 were the earliest monocyte macrophage-associated antigens to be expressed. CD14 molecules, identified by mAb MO.2, and the transferrin receptor, identified by mAb OKT9, increased linearly over the 21-day culture period. In contrast, Fc gamma R were not expressed on these cells until 14 days of culture. Fc gamma RI was present on approximately 80% of the cells, whereas Fc gamma RII and Fc gamma RIII were present on 30% and 20% of the cells, respectively. Functional activity of the nonadherent cell derived monocyte-macrophages paralleled the phenotypic maturation of these cells. The capacity to stimulate a mixed leukocyte reaction paralleled the expression of class II MHC molecules. Similarly, the capacity to phagocytose Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus paralleled the appearance of CR3. Indeed, phagocytosis of these organisms was partially blocked by mAb OKM-1. These studies demonstrate that monocyte-macrophages derived from cord blood nonadherent mononuclear cells are a useful population with which to characterize human macrophage differentiation and functional and phenotypic heterogeneity. PMID- 2527286 TI - Enzyme-linked immunoassay for Lp[a]. AB - Based on our findings that rabbit antisera raised against human Lp[a] or apo[a] have the potential to cross-react with plasminogen, and in some cases have nearly equal affinities for plasminogen and Lp[a], we have developed an assay for plasma Lp[a] based on a "sandwich" ELISA that is insensitive to the presence of plasminogen. This was accomplished through the use of anti-apo[a] as a capture antibody and quantitation of the bound Lp[a], i.e., the apoB-100-apo[a] complex, with an anti-apoB antibody. Although apo[a] is heterogeneous in size, all Lp[a] particles tested, either in pure form or contained in whole plasma, gave parallel dose-response curves and were immunologically equivalent. However, when purified Lp[a] particles with different apo[a] isoforms were studied, those having larger isoforms were, on a weight basis, less reactive than those having a smaller size. Nearly equivalent reactivity was observed when protein concentration was expressed on a molar basis. The distribution of Lp[a] in a population of 84 subjects was skewed with one-third of the individuals having less than 1 mg/dl Lp[a] protein. All subjects tested had measurable concentrations of Lp[a] with a lower limit of detection of 0.030 mg/dl Lp[a] protein. The mean level was 3.2 mg/dl with a range of 0.045 to 13.3 mg/dl. These studies demonstrate the successful development of an ELISA for Lp[a] protein that is insensitive to the presence of plasminogen; that heterogeneity of Lp[a] and apo[a] are an important source of variation in the assay; and the need for an appropriate Lp[a] standard in order to minimize this variation. PMID- 2527288 TI - Population data of casework in West Virginia on six genetic marker systems. AB - Blood specimens and stains submitted from all geographic regions of West Virginia were analyzed for six genetic markers: International ABO, phosphoglucomutase (PGM), esterase D (ESD), erythrocyte acid phosphatase (EAP), adenylate kinase (AK), and adenosine deaminase (ADA). The four-year study indicates that markers identified were distributed in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and are consistent with population data previously reported. PMID- 2527287 TI - Screening for lipoprotein[a] elevations in plasma and assessment of size heterogeneity using gradient gel electrophoresis. AB - Plasma was screened for the presence of lipoprotein[a] using 2-16% nondenaturing, polyacrylamide gradient gel electrophoresis. Gels were scanned with a densitometer after staining with Sudan black B. Bands that migrated above low density lipoprotein bands were identified as lipoprotein[a] by immunoblotting with polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies to apolipoprotein[a]. Lipoprotein[a] was measured by gradient gel electrophoresis and by radioimmunoassay in 115 male patients with premature coronary artery disease and 132 control subjects. Lipoprotein[a] bands were detected in 96.7% of subjects with lipoprotein[a] values above 40 mg/dl; in 31.3% with values between 21 and 40 mg/dl, and in 6.5% with values below 20 mg/dl. This gel methodology is a simple and effective procedure for detecting elevated plasma lipoprotein[a] levels and for investigating size heterogeneity, but does not replace immunoassay for quantitation. PMID- 2527289 TI - Gender and depression: assessing exposure and vulnerability to life events in a chronically strained population. AB - It has been suggested that higher levels of distress among women may be partially a function of their nurturant roles. Role-related differences in exposure and/or responsiveness to events occurring to network members are hypothesized to represent a "cost of caring" for women that translates into elevated levels of depressive symptoms. This paper examines the significance for depressive symptoms of gender differences in exposure and vulnerability to eventful stress among a sample of physically disabled subjects. This sample provides an opportunity to more fully assess the relevance of employment for understanding gender differences in depression. Our results indicate that men and women are equally exposed and equally vulnerable to life events occurring to themselves. However, we found women to be both more exposed and more vulnerable to events occurring to others. When labor force participation is taken into account, dramatic gender differences are revealed in the apparent significance of employment for exposure and vulnerability to various kinds of stressful events. The implications of these findings for public health interventions are discussed. PMID- 2527290 TI - Effects of D-2 antagonists on frequency-dependent stimulated dopamine overflow in nucleus accumbens and caudate-putamen. AB - Stimulated dopamine overflow has been measured with in vivo voltammetry in the caudate-putamen and nucleus accumbens. Overflow was induced by electrical stimulation of the medial forebrain bundle with 120 1-ms, 300-microA, biphasic pulses at frequencies between 10 and 60 Hz. Overflow was measured with a Nafion coated, carbon-fiber electrode used with fast-scan voltammetry (300 V s-1). Quantification and identification of dopamine concentrations down to 100 nM in vivo is possible with this technique. The overflow curves were fit to a kinetic model that describes the measured response as a function of uptake (characterized by a Vmax and Km) and release (characterized by the concentration of dopamine released per stimulus pulse). Overflow curves in both regions could be described with similar kinetic parameters except for the Vmax, which in the nucleus accumbens was only 60% of that measured in the caudate-putamen. Uptake inhibition by nomifensine (20 mg kg-1) caused an apparent 15-fold change in the value of Km in the nucleus accumbens, similar to results previously reported in the caudate putamen. In contrast, metoclopramide (10 mg kg-1) and sulpiride (100 mg kg-1) altered the apparent amount of dopamine released per stimulus pulse without a change in the uptake kinetics. PMID- 2527292 TI - Factors affecting workers' compensation claims activity. AB - This study examined whether and to what degree workers' compensation claims activity is related to the regulatory environment, prevalence of occupational injury, and employment conditions. A major finding was that when economic conditions induce people to leave the work force, a related increase in workers' compensation claims tends to occur. This statistically significant relationship was evident in both the recent history of workers' compensation awards for occupational hearing loss in West Virginia and in federal workers' compensation claims activity during the 1970s. PMID- 2527291 TI - Vitamin supplements and purported learning enhancement in mentally retarded children. AB - Dr. Ruth Harrell and her colleagues conducted a study in 1981 in which the administration of high dosages of vitamins were determined to dramatically improve the intellectual functioning of mentally retarded children. This paper documents the efforts of its authors to replicate the Harrell et al. research and, although no significant differences were found between active treatment groups and control groups at study's end, a thorough comparison is made between the two research efforts. PMID- 2527293 TI - Injuries to carpenters. AB - Study of 208 consecutively treated injuries to carpenters in northwestern Vermont revealed an annual injury rate of 13.3 to 17.2/100 workers. Most injuries had an abbreviated injury score of 1 and 7% resulted in hospitalization. One quarter of the injuries resulted from falls, and one fifth each from use of construction materials or power tools. In contrast to injuries from most other power tools, which usually involved trauma from direct contact with the equipment, the majority of injuries from circular or "skill" saws were eye injuries from flying sawdust. Overall, 43% of injured persons had no disability for work, but almost one fifth were disabled for a month or longer, especially persons with back injuries, who usually required emergency department treatment only but then had prolonged disability and expensive care. Mean and median hospital costs for all injuries were $347 and $70, and mean and median total costs of care were $376 and $90. Only one third of payment came from workers' compensation. Self-employed carpenters comprised 17% of injured persons but 36% of those with unpaid bills. PMID- 2527294 TI - Prognostic value of ambulatory blood pressure measurements: further analyses. AB - The value of ambulatory systolic blood pressure as a predictor of the development of cardiovascular complications was investigated in a sample of 761 hypertensive patients who had undergone ambulatory blood pressure monitoring and who were followed for an average of 5.5 years. Of the 695 patients without prior cardiovascular events at entry into the study, 11% subsequently experienced an event during the follow-up period (up to 10 years) compared to 48% of the 102 patients with a prior cardiovascular event. For each patient, a 'predicted' ambulatory systolic blood pressure was calculated, using the patient's office systolic blood pressure and the equation derived from regressing ambulatory on office blood pressure for the entire sample. By subtracting the predicted from the observed ambulatory pressure, a 'residual' ambulatory systolic blood pressure was derived for each patient, as a measure of that portion of the ambulatory pressure that could not be predicted from the office pressure. We used a Cox proportional hazards model to analyse the independent effect of each of the following patient characteristics at entry on the occurrence of subsequent cardiovascular events: sex, age, ECG evidence of left ventricular hypertrophy, hypertensive retinopathy, ambulatory systolic blood pressure, office systolic blood pressure, residual ambulatory systolic blood pressure and subsequent drug therapy. In both groups, with and without a prior cardiovascular event, women, younger patients and those with lower residual ambulatory systolic blood pressure tended to have longer periods of survival without new cardiovascular events. In the group without prior cardiovascular events, a lower office systolic blood pressure and the absence of advanced ECG evidence of left ventricular hypertrophy were also independently predictive of longer event-free survival.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527295 TI - Correction of facial-skeletal deformities in two patients with facio-scapulo humeral muscular dystrophy. AB - The genetic etiology, pathophysiology, natural progression, prognosis, and complications of Landouzy-Dejerine facio-scapulo-humeral benign muscular dystrophy are presented, as well as the risks of anesthesia and surgery. Patients with relatively benign myopathies may be candidates for reconstructive orthognathic surgery to improve oral function, facial esthetics, social interchange, and general quality of life. The surgery can be a gratifying experience for the patient, the family, and the surgeon, but the procedure, the anesthesia, and the postoperative care must be carefully planned to minimize the genuine risks. PMID- 2527296 TI - Low circulating T-helper cells in relapsing multiple myeloma. AB - Peripheral blood T-lymphocyte subsets were studied serially over a 6 year period in 50 patients with monoclonal gammopathy of unknown significance and multiple myeloma. The results were correlated with clinical status as measured by responsiveness to treatment (response vs. relapse). To allow assessment of the effects of treatment per se upon T-lymphocyte subset levels, patients were studied prior to as well as on and off therapy. After adjustment for treatment effects, the significant correlation (P less than 0.001) between low percentages of T4-bearing cells and relapse status persisted in all patients. Following multivariate analysis, beta 2-microglobulin and m-protein values correlated with relapse status, but these correlations were not unexpected since these parameters were often used in association with other clinical and laboratory findings to assess relapse status. The most striking finding of this study was the independent correlation between decreasing percent of T4 levels and increasing probability of relapse (P less than or equal to 0.003). Specifically, in this study the proportion of subjects with T4 levels less than 20% who relapsed was 67% regardless of other parameters. The strength of the correlation between the T4 values and relapse may provide insight into the biology of relapsing myeloma as well as adding a clinically useful test for disease assessment. PMID- 2527297 TI - Inhibitors of immune complex-induced inflammation: 3-[1-(2 benzoxazolyl)hydrazino]propanenitrile derivatives. AB - The octanol-water partition coefficients (log P) and the dissociation constants (pKa) of 3-[1-(2-benzoxazolyl)hydrazino]propanenitrile analogues have been determined, and quantitative structure--activity relationships (QSAR) of the analogues as inhibitors of immune complex-induced inflammation have been studied. A significant correlation is observed between log P and pi substituent constants, and between pKa and inductive-field (F) and resonance (R) constants. The QSAR equations indicate that smaller substituents both at the 5-position and/or at the side chain tend to make the compound more potent, while an electron-withdrawing group at the side chain tends to make the compound less potent. The predicted potencies of 14 of 18 additional monosubstituted and all six disubstituted analogues agree reasonably well with the observed activities. PMID- 2527298 TI - Vanadate stimulates the N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive adenosine triphosphatase in rat nephron. AB - Vanadate has been used in many cellular systems to elucidate mechanisms of enzyme action. Vanadate inhibits Na-K adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) activity in many tissues. In isolated collecting tubule it inhibits sodium transport and vasopressin-stimulated water flux, the latter presumably distal to cyclic AMP formation. Depending upon the tissue studied, vanadate also stimulates a variety of cellular reactions including adenylate cyclase, glucose oxidation and glycogen synthesis. We studied the effect of varying concentrations of vanadate on N ethylmaleimide (NEM)-sensitive ATPase activity in microdissected segments of rat nephron. In proximal convoluted tubule and in cortical, medullary and papillary collecting ducts vanadate had no effect on enzyme activity. In medullary and cortical thick ascending limbs, however, vanadate significantly stimulated NEM sensitive ATPase activity (medullary thick ascending limb, 241 +/- 14 pmol/mm/hr vs. 531 +/- 74 pmol/mm/hr; control vs. (1 mM) vanadate, respectively; n = 14, P less than 0.01). The stimulatory effect of vanadate on NEM-sensitive ATPase activity was present at 5 microM vanadate, a concentration that inhibited Na-K ATPase activity approximately 80%. Metabolic acidosis also stimulated enzyme activity in the thick ascending limb, and the effect of vanadate was not additive. Metabolic alkalosis had no effect on NEM-sensitive ATPase in the thick ascending limb, but the stimulatory effect of vanadate was still seen. These data document that the NEM-sensitive ATPase in thick ascending limb is different from that found in other nonmammalian proton secretory epithelia which are vanadate inhibitable. The results with vanadate plus metabolic acidosis suggest that both are acting via the same mechanism. PMID- 2527299 TI - Effect of a novel 5-hydroxytryptamine3-antagonist, GR38032F, on the 5 hydroxytryptamine-induced increase in carotid sinus nerve activity in rats. AB - The mass discharges of the carotid sinus nerve were recorded and the effect of 5 hydroxytryptamine3 (5-HT3) antagonist on the 5-HT-induced alteration of the carotid sinus nerve activity was studied in anesthetized rats. The i.v. bolus injection of 5-HT produced a rapid and dose-dependent increase in the carotid sinus nerve activity. Pretreatment with a selective 5-HT3 antagonist, GR38032F (3 x 10(-8) mol/kg), caused a parallel shift to the right in the dose-response curve. A selective 5-HT3 agonist, 2-methyl-5-HT, also produced a dose-dependent increase in the carotid sinus nerve activity. GR38032F (3 x 10(-9) and 3 x 10(-8) mol/kg) pretreatment caused a parallel rightward shift in the dose-response curves. Neither methysergide (3 x 10(-7) mol/kg), which possesses both 5-HT1-like partial agonistic and 5-HT2 antagonistic actions, nor ketanserin (3 x 10(-7) mol/kg), a selective 5-HT2 antagonist, affected the 5-HT-induced increase in carotid sinus nerve activity. GR38032F (3 x 10(-8) mol/kg) produced no significant change in the NaCN (1 mg/kg)-induced increase in carotid sinus nerve activity. These findings indicate that the 5-HT-induced increase in carotid sinus nerve activity is mediated by the 5-HT3 receptor mechanism in the carotid body of the rat. PMID- 2527300 TI - Dopamine D2 receptors labeled with [3H]raclopride in rat and rabbit brains. Equilibrium binding, kinetics, distribution and selectivity. AB - The binding properties of the substituted benzamide raclopride to dopamine D2 receptors were studied with membrane preparations from rat and rabbit neostriatum. An analysis of the association kinetics suggested a single binding site but the data from the dissociation experiments were better described by a two-site model. Examination of saturation curves at equilibrium revealed a single class of binding sites in the neostriatum from both species (rat: maximum binding capacity (Bmax) = 247 fmol/mg of protein; rabbit: Bmax = 337 fmol/mg of protein). In cortical regions known to possess a distinct dopaminergic innervation (piriform-entorhinal areas and cingulate cortex) the Bmax values ranged between 9 and 22 fmol/mg of protein. [3H]Raclopride binding sites (less than 12 fmol/mg of protein) were also detectable in the dorsal and ventral hippocampus as well as in the somatosensory and visual cortices. The selectivity in the neostriatum was examined by competition experiments with dopaminergic drugs. The rank of potency of agonists and antagonists to displace [3H]raclopride binding revealed its selectivity for the dopamine D2 receptor and was essentially the same for both species. Antagonist competition curves could be fitted to a single site but inhibition by agonists was better described assuming a two-site model. The stereospecificity of binding was demonstrated by the use of the enantiomer pairs. These results validate the utilization of the novel benzamide [3H]raclopride as a selective marker of dopamine D2 receptors. PMID- 2527301 TI - Effects of clarithromycin on cytochrome P-450. Comparison with other macrolides. AB - Repeated administration of clarithromycin (0.5 mmol.kg-1 p.o. daily for 5 days) to rats increased markedly the same cytochrome P-450 isoenzyme (P-450p) as that induced by troleandomycin. Clarithromycin, however, did not form cytochrome P-450 Fe(II)-metabolite complexes in vitro with microsomes from clarithromycin-treated rats or in vivo after repeated doses of clarithromycin. Nevertheless, clarithromycin formed cytochrome P-450 Fe(II)-metabolite complexes with microsomes from dexamethasone-treated rats in vitro, or after administration to dexamethasone-treated rats in vivo. Similar effects were observed with roxithromycin. In contrast, erythromycin and troleandomycin formed metabolic complexes when given alone, whereas josamycin, midecamycin and spiramycin did not form complexes, even in dexamethasone-treated rats. We conclude that clarithromycin and roxithromycin induce cytochrome P-450p, but do not form complexes with this isoenzyme, although they do form complexes with other glucocorticoid-inducible isoenzymes. We propose that macrolides may be classified into three groups, those forming complexes when given alone (e.g., erythromycin and troleandomycin), those forming complexes only in glucocorticoid-pretreated rats (clarithromycin and roxithromycin) and those not forming complexes (josamycin, midecamycin and spiramycin). PMID- 2527302 TI - Hypotensive and diuretic effects of atrial natriuretic factor in diabetic patients. AB - Plasma levels of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF), and the effects of intravenously infused ANF (99-126) on renal filtration and blood pressure, were studied during different sodium intakes in six patients with uncomplicated diabetes mellitus. The change from a low (25 mmol/day) to a high (241 mmol/day) sodium intake was associated with a 2.5 fold increase in circulating immunoreactive ANF. On both sodium diets, an infusion of synthetic ANF (99-126) given at two different rates caused a progressive decrease of arterial pressure. On a low but not on a high sodium intake arterial hypotension occurred in two patients. Moreover, on a high sodium intake, ANF did not significantly modify glomerular filtration rate, the effective renal plasma flow and the plasma concentrations of renin and aldosterone. It increased the fractional excretion of sodium by 72%. On a low sodium intake ANF caused a progressive fall of glomerular filtration rates and effective renal plasma flow. It increased the fractional excretion of sodium by 100%, and increased plasma renin and aldosterone levels. In patients with uncomplicated diabetes mellitus, circulating ANF responds physiologically to variations in sodium intake. A low sodium diet could predispose to arterial hypotension and renal functional impairment during infusion of ANF (99-126). PMID- 2527303 TI - Biochemical events essential to the recombination activity of Escherichia coli RecA protein. I. Properties of the mutant RecA142 protein. AB - We have characterized the biochemical properties of Escherichia coli RecA142 protein, the product of a recA allele that is phenotypically defective in genetic recombination. In vitro, this mutant RecA protein is totally defective in DNA heteroduplex formation. Despite this defect, RecA142 protein is not deficient in all other biochemical activities. RecA142 protein is proficient in single-strand (ss) DNA binding ability, ssDNA-dependent ATPase activity, and DNA-free self association (although the first 2 properties show a greater sensitivity to NaCl concentration than does the wild-type protein). However, RecA142 protein is deficient in four properties: (1) its ssDNA-dependent ATPase activity is completely inhibited by ssDNA binding (SSB) protein, demonstrating that RecA142 protein is unable to compete effectively with SSB protein for ssDNA binding sites; (2) it is unable to promote the coaggregation of ssDNA and double-strand (ds) DNA; (3) its M13 dsDNA-dependent ATPase activity is attenuated to approximately 5% of the level of the wild-type protein; (4) it is unable fully to develop characteristics of the high-affinity ssDNA-binding state that is normally induced by ATP. The first three deficiencies correspond to defects in the presynaptic, synaptic and postsynaptic steps of the in vitro DNA strand exchange reaction, respectively; the fourth is the likely fundamental basis for defects 1 and 3. Therefore, one or more of these properties must be important to both the in vitro and in vivo processes. PMID- 2527304 TI - Biochemical events essential to the recombination activity of Escherichia coli RecA protein. II. Co-dominant effects of RecA142 protein on wild-type RecA protein function. AB - In the accompanying paper, RecA142 protein was found to be completely defective in DNA heteroduplex formation. Here, we show that RecA142 protein not only is defective in this activity but also is inhibitory for certain activities of wild type RecA protein. Under appropriate conditions, RecA142 protein substantially inhibits the DNA strand exchange reaction catalyzed by wild-type RecA protein; at equimolar concentrations of each protein, formation of full-length gapped duplex DNA product molecules is less than 7% of the amount produced by wild-type protein alone. Inhibition by RecA142 protein is also evident in S1 nuclease assays of DNA heteroduplex formation, although the extent of inhibition is less than is observed for the complete DNA strand exchange process; at equimolar concentrations of wild-type and mutant proteins, the extent of DNA heteroduplex formation is 36% of the wild-type protein level. This difference implies that RecA142 protein prevents, at minimum, the branch migration normally observed during DNA strand exchange. RecA142 protein does not inhibit either the single strand (ss) DNA-dependent ATPase activity or the coaggregation activities of wild type RecA protein. This suggests that these reactions are not responsible for the inhibition of wild-type protein DNA strand exchange activity by RecA142 protein. However, under conditions where RecA142 protein inhibits DNA strand exchange activity, RecA142 protein renders the M13 ssDNA-dependent ATPase activity of wild type protein sensitive to inhibition by single-strand DNA-binding protein, and it inhibits the double-strand DNA-dependent ATPase activity of wild-type RecA protein. These results imply that these two activities are important components of the overall DNA strand exchange process. These experiments also demonstrate the applicability of using defective mutant RecA proteins as specific codominant inhibitors of wild-type protein activities in vitro and should be of general utility for mechanistic analysis of RecA protein function both in vitro and in vivo. PMID- 2527305 TI - Crystal structure of unliganded phosphofructokinase from Escherichia coli. AB - In an attempt to characterize the mechanism of co-operativity in the allosteric enzyme phosphofructokinase from Escherichia coli, crystals were grown in the absence of activating ligands. The crystal structure was determined to a resolution of 2.4 A by the method of molecular replacement, using the known structure of the liganded active state as a starting model, and has been refined to a crystallographic R-factor of 0.168 for all data. Although the crystallization solution would be expected to contain the enzyme in its inactive conformation, with a low affinity for the co-operative substrate fructose 6 phosphate, the structure in these crystals does not show the change in quaternary structure seen in the inactive form of the Bacillus stearothermophilus enzyme (previously determined at low resolution), nor does it show any substantial change in the fructose 6-phosphate site from the structure seen in the liganded form. Compared to the liganded form, there are considerable changes around the allosteric effector site, including the disordering of the last 19 residues of the chain. It seems likely that the observed conformation corresponds an active unliganded form, in which the absence of ligand in the effector site induces structural changes that spread through much of the subunit, but cause only minor changes in the active site. It is not clear why the crystals should contain the enzyme in a high-affinity conformation, which presumably represents only a small fraction of the molecules in the crystallizing solution. However, this structure does identify the conformational changes involved in binding of the allosteric effectors. PMID- 2527306 TI - Inhibition of methylation of DNA by dimethylnitrosamine (DMN) in dehydroepiandrosterone-fed rats. AB - The influence of the anticarcinogen dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) on the metabolism and macromolecular interactions of the potent hepatocarcinogen dimethylnitrosamine (NDMA) was investigated. Male Sprague-Dawley rats (2-3 mo old) were fed DHEA for 14 d at a dietary level of 0.8%. Compared with pair-fed controls, the liver weights of the DHEA-treated animals increased significantly (11.7 vs. 7.1 g) with increases, per total liver, in proteins including those of cytosol and microsomes as well as cytochromes P-450 and b5. DNA content of the liver, however, remained constant. Five hours after a single ip dose of [14C]NDMA (30 mg/kg body wt, 42 microCi/rat) DNA methylation was reduced in the DHEA-fed animals as measured by 7-methyl- and O6-methylguanine per mole of guanine, by 39 and 31%, respectively. The rate of NDMA metabolism was slightly higher in the DHEA-fed rats as determined in vivo by the exhalation of 14CO2 and by the declining concentrations of NDMA in the blood. The incorporation of radioactivity from [14C]NDMA into hepatic proteins in vivo was greater (2.1-fold) in the DHEA fed rats. Our results suggest that feeding rats with the adrenal steroid DHEA enhances the metabolic activation of NDMA in vivo, and that the increased association of NDMA-derived metabolites with increased hepatic cellular proteins may be partially responsible for protection of hepatic DNA from NDMA-induced damage. PMID- 2527307 TI - Immunomodulation in C57Bl/6 mice following consumption of halogenated aromatic hydrocarbon-contaminated coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) from Lake Ontario. AB - This report describes studies designed to assess the immunomodulatory effects associated with the consumption of coho salmon containing halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons (HAHs) and other compounds naturally bioaccumulated from Lake Ontario. Diets containing 33% coho salmon from Lake Ontario or the Pacific Ocean were fed to juvenile C57Bl/6 mice for 2-4 mo. Following 60 d, the mice that consumed Lake Ontario salmon had reduced IgM, IgG, and IgA plaque-forming cell responses to sheep erythrocytes. No changes were observed in total numbers of spleen lymphocytes, total T-lymphocytes or T-lymphocyte subsets as determined by flow cytometry. Cellular immunity, assessed by the cytotoxic T-lymphocyte response to allogeneic tumor target cells, was not altered following dietary exposure to Lake Ontario coho salmon for 4 mo. The observed humoral immunomodulation correlated with elevated PCB levels in the Lake Ontario salmon diets. The levels of pollutants such as mercury, tin compounds and other metals, PCDDs, and PCDFs were not examined. PMID- 2527308 TI - Metabolism of n-VLDL and beta-VLDL in peritoneal macrophages from diabetic mice. AB - Peritoneal macrophages were harvested from both healthy mice and mice with diabetes induced by intravenous injection of streptozotocin. After incubation with normal plasma very low density lipoprotein (n-VLDL) from swine for 24 h, the content of triglyceride (TG) in macrophages from diabetic mice was higher than that in the controls, and it was the same with the concentration of free fatty acid (FFA) in medium. The basic concentration of cholesterol ester (ChE) in macrophages from diabetic mice was also higher than that of the controls. After incubation with beta-VLDL from hypercholesterolemic rabbit for 48 h, no alteration in ChE content was found in the cells. On the contrary, the content of ChE in the cells from the controls was accumulated by saturating. The levels of FFA in the medium of the diabetic group were still higher than those of the controls. These results demonstrated that the metabolic function of peritoneal macrophages in diabetic mice was altered. The uptake and degradation of n-VLDL and the endogenous cholesterol synthesis were increased, but the uptake of beta VLDL was lower. In this paper, the possible mechanism and the relationship between atherosclerosis and diabetes are discussed. PMID- 2527309 TI - Cardiac changes in acute viral hepatitis in Varanasi (India): case reports. AB - Three cases of acute viral hepatitis are reported with various cardiac changes such as transient left ventricular hypertrophy, myocarditis and progressive cardiomegaly (cardiomyopathy). Extra-hepatic manifestations of acute viral hepatitis are rare but have been well documented. The aims of the present study are to highlight the cardiac involvement in acute viral hepatitis and to report the clinical implications of cardiac changes in acute viral hepatitis. PMID- 2527310 TI - The adenovirus E4 gene, in addition to the E1A gene, is important for trans activation of E2 transcription and for E2F activation. AB - Previous experiments have demonstrated that adenovirus infection of human and mouse cells leads to an E1A-dependent activation of the DNA-binding capacity of a cellular transcription factor termed E2F. E2F binds to two sites in the adenovirus E2 early promoter which have been shown to be critical for E1A dependent E2 early transcription, and the E2F-binding sites can confer E1A induced transcription to a heterologous promoter. In addition, under a variety of circumstances, the increase in E2F-binding activity coincides with the activation of E2 transcription. We now find that, in addition to the E1A gene, another early viral gene, the E4 gene, is necessary for the activation of E2F-binding activity. Extracts prepared from human 293 cells, which express the E1A and E1B genes, had low levels of E2F activity, whereas infection of 293 cells with the E1A mutant dl312 increased E2F activity. This increase did not occur when 293 cells were infected with dl366, an E4 deletion mutant, nor was there an increase in E2F activity in HeLa cells infected with either dl366 or dl312; however, a coinfection with the two mutants yielded the normal wild-type increase in E2F. Furthermore, infection of HeLa cells with a high multiplicity of dl312, conditions that allow E4 gene expression in the absence of E1A, did not yield an increase in E2F activity. Thus, it appears that both the E1A gene and the E4 gene are directly involved in E2F activation. Measurements of E2 RNA production in a dl366 infection as compared with a wild-type or dl312 infection demonstrate that the E4 gene is essential for full E2 transcription. Furthermore, transfection assays of the E2 promoter demonstrate that, although E1A alone can trans-activate the E2 promoter, it is not as effective as the combination of E1A and E4 in the induction of the E2 promoter. We therefore conclude that the activation of the E2F factor leading to the activation of E2 transcription requires the combined action of both the E1A 289-amino-acid protein and an E4 product. PMID- 2527311 TI - A genome-linked copy of the NS-1 polypeptide is located on the outside of infectious parvovirus particles. AB - The 5' ends of all newly synthesized single-stranded (s1) DNA genomes of the autonomous parvovirus minute virus of mice are covalently linked to the major virally coded nonstructural protein NS-1, but later in infection this association is disrupted, giving rise to an abbreviated form of single-stranded DNA designated s2. Both s1 and s2 forms are encapsidated and migrate in velocity gradients as 110S particles, and, as such, both appear to be infectious. Most virions are released from A9 cells as s1 particles, but the NS-1 molecules are located on the outside of the virion where they are accessible to both antibodies and enzymes. These polypeptides are cleaved from the encapsidated DNA by nucleolytic or proteolytic digestion, which can occur either in the culture medium or upon subsequent entry into further host cells. Since the s1 to s2 cleavage can be minimized by blocking viral reentry, it is likely that most of the processing occurs after entry into the host cell. Incoming virus is rapidly converted to the s2 form when it is used to infect new host cells, but in vitro removal of the NS-1 molecules with proteases or nucleases fails to influence the infectivity of s1 particles under normal culture conditions. Limited proteolysis of s1 particles with trypsin demonstrates that NS-1 is linked to the DNA via its amino-terminal domain. Analysis of the 5' ends of s1 and s2 forms indicates that there are approximately 24 externally located nucleotides linking the NS-1 molecules to the 5.1-kilobase nuclease-resistant DNA core of the virion. PMID- 2527312 TI - Genetic evidence for involvement of vaccinia virus DNA-dependent ATPase I in intermediate and late gene expression. AB - To delineate the role of the vaccinia virus-encapsidated DNA-dependent ATPase I in the life cycle of the virus, we performed a detailed study of two temperature sensitive mutants with lesions in the gene encoding the enzyme. Profiles of viral DNA and protein accumulation during infection showed the mutants to be competent for DNA synthesis but deficient in late protein synthesis, confirming their defective late phenotype (R. C. Condit and A. Motyczka, Virology 113:224-241, 1981: R. C. Condit, A. Motyczka, and G. Spizz, Virology 128:429-443, 1983). In vitro translation of viral RNA and S1 nuclease mapping of selected mRNAs demonstrated that the deficit in late protein synthesis stemmed from a defect in the transcriptional machinery. Intermediate and late gene expression appeared to be most affected. The transcriptional defect was of unequal severity in the two mutants. However, their phenotypes were indistinguishable and their respective lesions were mapped to the same 300 nucleotides at the 5' end of the gene. DNA sequence analysis assigned a single nucleotide and amino acid change to one of the mutants. PMID- 2527313 TI - Adenovirus type 12 E1A down regulates expression of a transgene under control of a major histocompatibility complex class I promoter: evidence for transcriptional control. AB - The E1 region of human adenovirus type 12 (Ad12 E1) represses the expression of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I genes in transformed primary rodent cells. Conflicting results have been reported as to whether this E1A mediated repression occurs at a transcriptional or a posttranscriptional level. In the present study, we show that in Ad12 E1-transformed primary baby mouse kidney cells from transgenic mice harboring the human growth hormone gene under control of an H-2K promoter both the expression of the endogenous MHC class I genes and the expression of the transgene are repressed. This experiment, as well as nuclear run-on analyses performed with single-stranded probes, revealed that Ad12 E1A inhibits MHC class I gene expression by repressing its promoter. PMID- 2527314 TI - A karyophilic signal sequence in adenovirus type 5 E1A is functional in Xenopus oocytes but not in somatic cells. AB - The carboxy-terminal five amino acids of the adenovirus type 5 E1A gene product are necessary and sufficient for this protein to become localized in the nuclei of somatic cells. In this report, we demonstrate that E1A contains a second nuclear localization signal, which resides within residues 140 to 185 and which functions in Xenopus oocytes but not Xenopus or mammalian somatic cells. These data demonstrate the cell-type-specific utilization of a nuclear localization signal. PMID- 2527315 TI - NF-kappa B-mediated activation of the human immunodeficiency virus enhancer: site of transcriptional initiation is independent of the TATA box. AB - The activation of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) enhancer in T cells can occur through multiple independent pathways. This enhancer is stimulated by NF kappa B or through alternative mechanisms, including E1A transactivation, which is dependent on the TATA box. In this report, the role of the TATA box in activation by NF-kappa B is examined. E1A stimulation of the HIV enhancer requires the presence of the TATA sequence in the sense orientation. Analysis of mutant HIV enhancer plasmids shows that basal mRNA levels are reduced when the TATA sequence is altered but that inducibility of NF-kappa B and the site of transcriptional initiation are unchanged. These data suggest that transcriptional initiation in this class II promoter is determined by an initiator factor which does not require binding to the TATA sequence. Because kappa B is found in a variety of viruses, this mechanism may be relevant to the activation of other viral enhancers. PMID- 2527317 TI - Laser arterial disobstructive procedures in 148 lower extremities. AB - Preoperative arteriographic findings in immediate postoperative results as well as follow-up studies of treatment with argon and YAG lasers have been evaluated in 148 lesion found in 137 patients. Preoperative arteriography revealed a solitary lesion in 42 of 148 legs (28%) examined, and a combined lesion was found in the remaining 106 legs (72%). Incapacitating intermittent claudication, rest pain, tissue loss, or a combination of these was an indication for laser arterial reconstruction. None of the argon laser-treated lesions was treated with balloon dilatation, but since March 1988 all appropriate YAG laser-treated lesions were immediately followed by laser-assisted balloon angioplasty. The lesions in 64 of 89 legs (72%) treated by argon and 42 of 59 (71%) treated by YAG were successfully recanalized. However, successful angioplasty was performed in 44 of 89 (49%) and 34 of 59 (58%) lesions, respectively. The recanalization depended on the type of lesion (tight stenosis vs occlusion) and the length of lesion (localized vs total-length occlusion). However, the success rate of recanalization was almost the same as the success rate when both laser systems were used. Argon laser treatment proved successful in 19 of 20 (95%) segmental occlusions in popliteal arteries, whereas YAG laser treatment proved successful in four of five (80%) short segmental (less than 15 cm) occlusions of superficial femoral arteries and in 16 of 23 (70%) long segmental (greater than or equal to 15 cm) occlusions of superficial femoral arteries. In 26 of 36 (72%) total-length occlusions of superficial femoral and popliteal arteries, recanalization was not possible (p less than 0.001).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527316 TI - Prophylactic closed suction drainage of femoral wounds in patients undergoing vascular reconstruction. AB - Prophylactic closed suction drainage has been advocated in a variety of surgical wounds, but its use in wounds involving vascular anastomoses has not been studied. Fifty patients undergoing lower extremity revascularization that required bilateral groin incisions were randomly assigned to have either the right or left side of the groin drained with a closed suction catheter. The contralateral wound was closed without drainage. Statistically there was no difference between wound closed with drains and undrained wounds in the occurrence of hematomas, seromas, lymphoceles, superficial infections, subcutaneous infections, or graft infections; although serious complications were more frequent in the drained wounds. Prophylactic closed suction drainage appears to offer no advantage over closure without drainage in wounds of the groin resulting from elective vascular operations. PMID- 2527318 TI - Abdominal aortic aneurysm infected with Campylobacter fetus subspecies fetus. AB - We report a survivor of Campylobacter fetus septicemia from an infected abdominal aortic aneurysm who was successfully treated with an anatomic graft reconstruction and antibiotics. According to a survey of the English-language medical literature this was the fourth such patient successfully treated. C. fetus sepsis associated with an abdominal aortic aneurysm was first reported in 1971. The first patient to survive reconstruction of an aortic tube graft aneurysm infected with C. fetus was reported in 1983. Because the natural history of an aneurysm infected by C. fetus appears to be rapid progression to rupture, patients should be operated on promptly. All patients reported in the literature who were operated on before rupture survived. Survival was independent of the type of reconstruction. When the aneurysm ruptured all patients died. Whereas extraanatomic bypass is generally considered the procedure of choice for an infected abdominal aneurysm, the aneurysms of our patient and three other patients cited in the literature were reconstructed with anatomically placed prosthetic grafts. In the absence of other contraindications such as a grossly evident purulent infection, an abdominal aortic aneurysm infected by C. fetus may represent a subset of infected aneurysms that can be treated successfully with an anatomically placed prosthetic graft and antibiotics. PMID- 2527319 TI - Salt intake is related to the process of myocardial hypertrophy in essential hypertension. PMID- 2527320 TI - Indications and prognostic effects of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty and coronary aortic bypass graft. PMID- 2527321 TI - [Laparoscopic assessment of the operability of pancreatic cancer]. AB - Results are reported of laparoscopic examination of 78 patients with pancreatic cancer. The methods used were laparoscopic inspection and palpation of the pancreas, laparoscopic biopsy by mono- and bipuncture method, laparoscopic inspection and palpation of the organs of bursa omentalis. As a result of these investigations, dissemination outside the pancreas was established in 57 patients (73.1 per cent) in the outpatient services, before entering hospital. The other 21 patients (26.9 per cent) were subjected to radical or palliative surgical interventions. The importance of laparoscopy for evaluation of the operability and for selection of patients, entering surgical clinics, is emphasized. PMID- 2527322 TI - Clostridium difficile-associated typhlitis in specific pathogen free guineapigs in the absence of antimicrobial treatment. AB - Clostridium difficile (toxin) associated typhlitis was diagnosed in untreated barrier-maintained specific pathogen free guineapigs. It resembled the pathological lesions of antibiotic induced enterocolitis. The possible role of limited colonization resistance to C. difficile provided by mouse enteric microflora in the pathogenesis of the disease is discussed. PMID- 2527323 TI - A method for intratracheal instillation of endotoxin into the lungs of mice. AB - A detailed method is presented for the intratracheal instillation of fluids into the lungs of mice. Using 125I-albumen it was determined that 25-50 microliters of volume gave almost equal distribution to all lobes of the mouse lung. Extremely low levels of endotoxin given intratracheally (12.5-25 ng) resulted in a dramatic increase in the neutrophil content of the lung. The increase started in less than 4 h, reaching levels of 7 x 10(5) by 18 h and was maintained at elevated levels for at least 48 h. This neutrophil count represented more than 90% of the cell population of the lung. PMID- 2527325 TI - Further studies on the effect of aldosterone on Mg2+-HCO3(-)-ATPase and carbonic anhydrase from rat intestinal mucosa. AB - The main purpose of this study is to elucidate the effect of adrenocorticoids on Mg2+-HCO3(-)-ATPase and carbonic anhydrase which are thought to be related to anion transport in mammalian intestinal mucosa and renal tubulus. Rat duodenal mucosa, large intestinal mucosa and kidney cortex were excised and homogenized with mannitol-Tris buffer (pH 7.1) and brush border fraction and cytosol were obtained by a differential fractionation procedure. Brush border Mg2+-HCO3(-) ATPase and cytosol carbonic anhydrase activities in the duodenal mucosa decreased to 70% and 37% of normal values, respectively 5-11 days after adrenalectomy. Adrenalectomy also decreased significantly both enzyme activities in large intestinal mucosa; on the other hand, renal enzyme activities did not change. Four hours after a single injection of 20-80 micrograms/kg of aldosterone, ip, to adrenalectomized rats, Mg2+-HCO3(-)-ATPase and carbonic anhydrase activities in duodenal mucosa increased gradually to normal or near normal in dose-dependent fashion. Both enzyme activities in large intestinal mucosa were also increased by a larger dose of aldosterone. Again, renal enzyme activities were not affected by any dose of aldosterone. In contrast, corticosterone (1 mg and 4 mg/kg) and dexamethasone (50 micrograms 200 micrograms/kg) had no replacement effect on enzyme activities in all organs. These results showed that the mineralocorticoid, but not glucocorticoids, is a regulator of the enzyme activity of Mg2+-HCO3(-) ATPase and carbonic anhydrase from intestinal mucosa. The true mechanisms by which both enzymes are activated by aldosterone are not clear at present. PMID- 2527324 TI - An in vitro method to determine the selective inhibition of estrogen biosynthesis by aromatase inhibitors. AB - Potency and selectivity of aromatase inhibition are parameters which ultimately influence the therapeutic efficacy of aromatase inhibitors. This report describes an in vitro model which allows an assessment of the selectivity with which aromatase inhibitors inhibit estrogen biosynthesis. Estrogen production was stimulated by incubating adult female hamster ovarian tissue with ovine LH. The production rates of estrogens (E), testosterone (T) and progesterone (P) were determined using radioimmunoassays to measure the amount of these steroids released into the incubation medium over a 4-hour incubation period. The selectivity of aromatase inhibition was assessed by determining the IC50S with which each inhibitor inhibited the production of E (end product), T (immediate precursor of E) and P (early precursor of E). Selectivity was studied for each of the 4 aromatase inhibitors, CGS 16949A (a new non-steroidal compound), 4-OH androstenedione, aminoglutethimide and testolactone. CGS 16949A was the most potent of the four, followed by 4-OH-androstenedione, aminoglutethimide and testolactone. As far as selectivity was concerned, both CGS 16949A and 4-OH androstenedione selectively inhibited aromatase judging from the IC50s for E and P production (CGS 16949A: IC50 for E & P = 0.03 & 160 microM, resp.; 4-OH androstenedione: IC50 for E & P = 0.88 & greater than or equal to 330 microM, resp.). Aminoglutethimide was the least selective inhibitor of aromatase (IC50 for E & P = 13 & 60 microM, resp.). For testolactone, the least potent of the four (IC50 for E = 130 microM), no conclusive data were obtained concerning the selectivity of aromatase inhibition. Thus a simple, effective and reproducible method is described for assessing the selectivity with which aromatase inhibitors inhibit aromatase. PMID- 2527327 TI - Effects of ovine corticotropin-releasing factor and vasopressin on plasma beta endorphin, cortisol and behavior after minor surgery in sheep. AB - The evidence for an analgesic effect arising from increased peripheral concentrations of beta-endorphin (beta-EP) in various animal species is controversial, and has not been fully evaluated in the sheep. To stimulate beta EP release, ovine corticotropin-releasing factor (oCRF) and arginine vasopressin (AVP) were injected intravenously (iv) into a group of 12 out of 24 sheep, 15 min prior to minor surgery on all sheep. This brought about significant increases (P less than 0.01) in plasma beta-endorphin (beta-EP) and cortisol concentrations, relative to the non-injected control sheep, 15-30 min after injection. Ultrafiltration indicated that less than 30% of the released beta-EP immunoreactivity was present as higher molecular weight forms (mol. wt greater than 10,000) and that the majority (about 75%) of the beta-EP was probably bound to plasma proteins. By 75 min after injection there was no significant difference in plasma beta-EP or cortisol concentrations between the two groups of sheep. Consistent with previous observations the sheep showed a characteristic aversive behavior to the human handler following surgery, lasting several days. This behavior appeared to be unaffected by a pre-operative increase in peripheral plasma beta-EP, and may indicate that this increase in beta-EP was not sufficiently analgesic to block the cognitive response to the operation, or long lasting enough to prevent the perception of post-operative soreness. PMID- 2527326 TI - Expression of platelet glycoproteins by erythroid blasts in four cases of trisomy 21. AB - In four patients with trisomy 21 (three constitutional, one acquired) with a morphological undifferentiated leukemia, diagnosis of erythroid leukemia was established by both immunophenotyping and ultrastructural studies. Indeed, a majority of blasts from three patients expressed several erythroid markers such as carbonic anhydrase 1, spectrin beta chain, and glycophorin A. In addition, band 3 and hemoglobin were immunologically detected in a fraction of the blast cells from two cases. At ultrastructural level, a majority or all blast cells exhibited erythroid differentiation features such as theta granules and ferritin molecules. However, platelet glycoproteins GP Ib, GP IIb, and GP IIIa were also immunologically detected in a fraction (from 14-82%) of the blasts. Since the ultrastructural study indicated that some promegakaryoblasts were also present in three patients, double labeling between erythroid markers (glycophorin A or carbonic anhydrase I) and platelet glycoprotein (Ib or IIIa) was performed and showed a clear overlap between the two kinds of markers. A similar approach was performed at ultrastructural level and indicated that blast cells with ultrastructural erythroid features of differentiation may have three distinct phenotypes, i.e., presence of glycophorin A without platelet glycoproteins or, conversely, the presence of platelet glycoproteins without glycophorin A and coexpression of glycophorin A and platelet glycoproteins. Expression of glycophorin A correlated directly with the differentiation level of the erythroid blasts, whereas platelet glycoproteins were essentially expressed in the more primitive leukemic erythroid cells. The GP Ib synthesized by these blasts was subsequently studied. The GP Ib alpha mRNA analyzed by Northern blot from these erythroid cells was identical in size with that from megakaryocytic cells as was the molecular weight of the GP Ib molecule from both after immunoprecipitation by a monoclonal antibody. Therefore, "in vivo" erythroid leukemic cells may express the main platelet glycoproteins including GP Ib. PMID- 2527328 TI - [Thyroid function in chronic liver diseases in an endemic region]. AB - Iodine absorptive thyroid function, the levels of T3, T4 and TSH, and thyroid scanning were determined and performed in 132 patients with chronic liver diseases. The results of the investigation were compared with those of the control group. All patients lived in a goiter-endemic area with higher prevalence of liver diseases. Functional thyroid disorders were revealed in all the patients: hypofunction in 85.6%, hyperfunction in 14.4%. Structural and anatomic thyroid changes were detected in 91.6%. The results obtained should be taken into account during therapy of patients with chronic liver diseases. PMID- 2527330 TI - Expanded linkage map of Erwinia chrysanthemi strain 3937. AB - In this paper we describe the chromosomal location of various loci in Erwinia chrysanthemi strain 3937. Auxotrophic markers were obtained by chemical mutagenesis, antibiotic resistances were isolated spontaneously and mutations in sugar utilization were obtained by means of Mu insertions. These markers were located on the genetic linkage map of strain 3937 by using a conjugative system mediated by RP4::mini-Mu plasmids which permitted transfer of genetic material from any point of origin. The location of these markers was compared to that of previously located mutations. Many genes involved in pectinolysis were also located on the E. chrysanthemi 3937 map. These results permitted us to present a new genetic map containing 61 markers distributed over 34 widely scattered loci on the chromosome. Some pairs of markers giving high cotransfer frequencies were tested for cotransduction mediated by the generalized transducing phage phi-EC2; nine cotransducing pairs were found. It appears that the chromosomal locations of many of these loci are quite different to those of the well-known enterobacterium Escherichia coli but seem similar to those described for other E. chrysanthemi strains. PMID- 2527329 TI - The high-affinity K+-translocating ATPase complex from Bacillus acidocaldarius consists of three subunits. AB - Cells of the thermoacidophilic bacterium Bacillus acidocaldarius express a high affinity K+-uptake system when grown at low external K+. A vanadate-sensitive, K+ and Mg2+-stimulated ATPase was partially purified from membranes of these cells by solubilization with a non-ionic detergent followed by ion-exchange chromatography of the extract. Combinations of non-denaturing and denaturing electrophoretic separation methods revealed that the ATPase complex consisted of three subunits with molecular weights almost identical to those of the KdpA, B and C proteins, which together form the Kdp high-affinity, K+-translocating ATPase complex of Escherichia coli. The affinity of the partially purified ATPase from B. acidocaldarius for its substrates K+ (Km 2-3 microM) and ATP (Km 80 microM), its stimulation by various divalent cations, and its inhibition by vanadate (Ki 1-2 microM), bafilomycin A1 (Ki 20 microM), DCCD (Ki 200 microM) or Ca2+ were also similar to those of the E. coli enzyme, indicating that the two K+ translocating ATPases have almost identical properties. PMID- 2527331 TI - Construction of lac fusions to the inducible arginine- and lysine decarboxylase genes of Escherichia coli K12. AB - The induction of several amino acid decarboxylases under anaerobic conditions at low pH has been known for many years, but the mechanism associated with this type of regulation has not been elucidated. To study the regulation of the biodegradative arginine and lysine decarboxylases of Escherichia coli K12, Mudlac fusions to these genes were isolated. Mudlac fusion strains deficient for lysine decarboxylase or arginine decarboxylase were identified using decarboxylase indicator media and analysed for their regulation of beta-galactosidase expression. The position of the Mudlac fusion in lysine decarboxylase-deficient strains has been mapped to the cadA gene at 93.7 minutes, while the Mudlac fusions exhibiting a deficiency in the inducible arginine decarboxylase have been mapped to 93.4 minutes. PMID- 2527332 TI - [Role of an endorphin in pain caused by pulpal stimulation. Study on an experimental animal model]. AB - The aim of the present paper is to verify in an experimental pharmacological animal model the role played by beta-endorphin in the modulation of the response to pain inducer by electrical dental pulp stimulation. PMID- 2527333 TI - Cardiac function and the neonatal EKG. Part IV: Chamber enlargement and axis determination. PMID- 2527335 TI - A lambda gt11 cDNA recombinant that encodes Dirofilaria immitis paramyosin. AB - The cDNA synthesized from mRNA of Dirofilaria immitis female adult worms was cloned into the expression vector lambda gt11. Screening the library with a hyperimmune rabbit antiserum raised against adult worm homogenates yielded several antigen positive clones. One of these clones, lambda cDi2, was recognized by rabbit antisera raised against either D. immitis L-3, adult, Brugia malayi L-3 or Onchocerca volvulus adult worm antigen, as well as by antisera from humans naturally infected with O. volvulus or Wuchereria bancrofti. Affinity-purified anti-lambda cDi2 antibodies reacted with a 97-kDa protein on Western transfers of adult D. immitis antigen extracts that were reduced with beta-mercaptoethanol. The whole rabbit anti-D. immitis adult antiserum depleted of anti-lambda cDi2 antibodies exhibited decreased reactivity to this 97-kDa band. A monoclonal antibody (IA6) that specifically binds Schistosoma mansoni paramyosin also recognised a 97-kDa protein in D. immitis extracts upon Western transfer. The deduced amino acid sequence of partial DNA sequence from lambda cDi2 showed some similarity to nematode myosin, and gave a stretch of 82 amino acids that is 91.5% identical to Caenorhabditis elegans paramyosin: thus, lambda cDi2 encodes D. immitis paramyosin. PMID- 2527337 TI - Mobility aids: motorized mobility. PMID- 2527334 TI - Sequence and regulation of a gene encoding a human 89-kilodalton heat shock protein. AB - Vertebrate cells synthesize two forms of the 82- to 90-kilodalton heat shock protein that are encoded by distinct gene families. In HeLa cells, both proteins (hsp89 alpha and hsp89 beta) are abundant under normal growth conditions and are synthesized at increased rates in response to heat stress. Only the larger form, hsp89 alpha, is induced by the adenovirus E1A gene product (M. C. Simon, K. Kitchener, H. T. Kao, E. Hickey, L. Weber, R. Voellmy, N. Heintz, and J. R. Nevins, Mol. Cell. Biol. 7:2884-2890, 1987). We have isolated a human hsp89 alpha gene that shows complete sequence identity with heat- and E1A-inducible cDNA used as a hybridization probe. The 5'-flanking region contained overlapping and inverted consensus heat shock control elements that can confer heat-inducible expression on a beta-globin reporter gene. The gene contained 10 intervening sequences. The first intron was located adjacent to the translation start codon, an arrangement also found in the Drosophila hsp82 gene. The spliced mRNA sequence contained a single open reading frame encoding an 84,564-dalton polypeptide showing high homology with the hsp82 to hsp90 proteins of other organisms. The deduced hsp89 alpha protein sequence differed from the human hsp89 beta sequence reported elsewhere (N. F. Rebbe, J. Ware, R. M. Bertina, P. Modrich, and D. W. Stafford (Gene 53:235-245, 1987) in at least 99 out of the 732 amino acids. Transcription of the hsp89 alpha gene was induced by serum during normal cell growth, but expression did not appear to be restricted to a particular stage of the cell cycle. hsp89 alpha mRNA was considerably more stable than the mRNA encoding hsp70, which can account for the higher constitutive rate of hsp89 synthesis in unstressed cells. PMID- 2527336 TI - Mycotoxins produced by toxic Fusarium isolates obtained from agricultural and nonagricultural areas (Arctic) of Norway. AB - Twenty-five isolates of F. acuminatum, 38 of F. avenaceum, 1 of F. culmorum, 31 of F. oxysporum and 56 of F. sambucinum were obtained in 1983, 1984 and 1986 from cereal grains and soil from various parts of Norway. The isolates were grown on an autoclaved Uncle Ben's parboiled rice medium and examined for production of trichothecenes and other toxins and for toxicity in rat feeding tests. F. culmorum N46C(2) and Fusarium sambucimum 45-86-A produced zearalenone (F-2) 864 and 665 ppm, respectively and caused uterine enlargement in rats. Most of these isolates produced no known trichothecene mycotoxins that could account for the toxicity that was demonstrated in the rat feeding tests. All but F. avenaceum N26B produced fusarin C (1.5 ppm) but caused no toxic effects in rat feeding test. None of the isolates produced fusarochromanone (TDP-1). Thirteen isolates of F. acuminatum, 16 of F. avenaceum, 14 of F. oxysporum and 3 of F. sambucinum produced a cytotoxic factor which we named HM-8. One isolate of F. avenaceum, 12 of F. oxysporum and 46 of F. sambucinum produced a hemorrhagic factor which we named H-1 (wortmannin). Twenty isolates of F. acuminatum, 22 of F. avenaceum, 17 of F. oxysporum and 1 of F. sambucinum produced moniliformin. Four isolates of F. acuminatum, 9 of F. avenaceum, 25 of F. oxysporum and 52 of F. sambucinum caused death to rats. Three isolates of F. avenaceum, 19 of F. oxysporum and 47 of F. sambucinum induced hemorrhage in various organs. All isolates caused decreased weight gain, relative to the control diets. PMID- 2527338 TI - Dopamine D1 binding sites in the striatum of the mutant mouse weaver. AB - In the weaver mouse there is a major abnormality in the dopamine-containing innervation of the striatum. Dopamine islands from during development, along with some innervation of the non-islandic matrix; but during the first postnatal month much of the islandic innervation degenerates and there is a failure of the normal postnatal development of the diffuse nigrostriatal innervation. In the experiments reported here we analysed the distribution of D1 dopamine receptor related binding sites in the weaver striatum in an effort to test the relationship between the dopamine-containing innervation of the striatum and the synthesis and distribution of dopamine receptors there. Dopamine D1 receptor binding sites labeled by the D1 specific antagonist [3H]SCH 23390 were studied in the striatum of 7-day and adult homozygous weaver (wv/wv) and homozygous control (+/+) mice. Saturation analysis of [3H]SCH 23390 binding in adult animals suggested that the dissociation constants of the binding sites are similar in mutants and controls. The Bmax values in the striatum of weavers were 16% higher than in the controls when the data were expressed as fmoles/mg protein. The protein content of the adult weaver's striatum was decreased by 15 to 30%, however, so that when values were expressed as fmoles/section, no significant difference between values in weavers and homozygous controls were found. Quantitative autoradiography supported the results of saturation analysis. We conclude that the apparent increase of [3H]SCH23390 binding sites in the mutants occurred as the result of shrinkage of the weaver's caudoputamen and that dopamine D1 receptor binding sites in the caudoputamen, as assessed with [3H]SCH 23390, are normal. The studies of regional distribution of [3H]SCH 23390 binding sites in 7-day and adult mice indicated that the characteristic postnatal transition of the [3H]SCH 23390 binding pattern from islandic to a diffuse distribution occurred normally in the weaver's caudoputamen. Thus, in spite of the degeneration and failure of development of the nigrostriatal innervation in weaver mice, D1 binding in the weaver's striatum undergoes the elaborate change in distribution of these sites that is a hallmark of normal striatal development. PMID- 2527339 TI - Reversibility of para-chlorophenylalanine-induced insomnia by intrahypothalamic microinjection of L-5-hydroxytryptophan. AB - Para-chlorophenylalanine, a blocker of serotonin biosynthesis by inhibiting tryptophan hydroxylase, induced total insomnia which was accompanied in cat by a permanent discharge of ponto-geniculo-occipital activity. L-5-Hydroxytryptophan microinjection (1-4 micrograms/0.5 microliters) in the anterior hypothalamus 72 h after para-chlorophenylalanine administration, restored both slow wave sleep and paradoxical sleep with variable latencies for each state of sleep. On the contrary, ponto-geniculo-occipital activity was never suppressed. The hypnogenic effects of L-5-hydroxytryptophan were always followed by a return of the para chlorophenylalanine-induced insomnia. On the other hand, the temperature recording did not show any alteration of the cerebral temperature after para chlorophenylalanine treatment but the subsequent L-5-hydroxytryptophan microinjection was followed by hyperthermia. Using immunohistochemistry for serotonin after intrahypothalamic L-5-hydroxytryptophan microinjection in parachlorophenylalanine-pretreated cat, we defined a restricted region of the anterior hypothalamus possibly responsible for the hypnogenic effect. This region included the lateral hypothalamus and the anterior hypothalamic area. It is suggested that the reversible hypersomnia after L-5-hydroxytryptophan microinjection in the anterior hypothalamus in para-chlorophenylalanine pretreated cat is due to a neurohormonal action of serotonin: serotonin could act upon the anterior hypothalamus which secondarily inhibits a waking system located in the ventrolateral hypothalamus leading to the appearance of paradoxical sleep. PMID- 2527340 TI - Inhibitory action of L-dopa. PMID- 2527341 TI - Camptocormia and depression: a case report. AB - Camptocormia, a sustained forward flexion of the trunk of functional origin, is relatively rare in peace time. It is usually attributed to the dynamics of conversion or psychophysiologic disorder. The association of camptocormia with depression of significant proportions has not been recorded elsewhere. A case report of such a problem in a Navy enlistee during peace time is presented. Treatment with antidepressants and supportive psychotherapy is advocated as a first step when depression occurs in patients with camptocormia. PMID- 2527342 TI - Management of Low Back Pain in the Military Population. PMID- 2527344 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor suppresses M-current in frog but not in rat sympathetic neurones. AB - The effects of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) were investigated on rat and bullfrog sympathetic ganglia. Although there was little effect on neurones from rat superior cervical ganglion (SCG), B-cells in bullfrog paravertebral ganglia (BFSG) were depolarized. This depolarization was often associated with an increase in excitability and suppression of a voltage-dependent K+ current, the M current (IM). ANF did not affect the amplitude of the nicotinic EPSP in either ganglion. PMID- 2527343 TI - Localization of the dopamine uptake complex using [3H]N-[1-(2 benzo(b)thiophenyl)cyclohexyl]piperidine ([3H]BTCP) in rat brain. AB - [3H]N-[1-(2-Benzo(b)thiophenyl)cyclohexyl]piperidine ([3H]BTCP) is a novel phencyclidine derivative with considerable selectivity for dopamine uptake sites. [3H]BTCP was used to label dopamine uptake sites in vitro, in rat brain, and the regions containing these sites were visualized with an autoradiographic technique. The binding was found to be highest in the striatum, where greater than 90% of binding was specific. Furthermore, 6-hydroxydopamine lesions of the nigrostriatal pathway obliterated striatal [3H]BTCP binding ipsilaterally, whereas ibotenic acid injection into the caudate-putamen failed to significantly reduce [3H]BTCP binding in that structure. These results indicate that [3H]BTCP labels dopamine uptake sites in mammalian brain and that it can be employed for autoradiographic studies of this transport complex. PMID- 2527345 TI - Effects of neonatal capsaicin treatment and streptozotocin-induced diabetes on urinary bladder function in rats. AB - A significant increase in the size and weight of the urinary bladder was observed 2 weeks after streptozotocin treatment and 2 months after neonatal capsaicin treatment. Both treatments induced a significant increase in the level of [3H]quinuclidinyl benzilate binding to muscarinic cholinergic receptors in the urinary bladder membranes. However, contractile responses of urinary bladder muscle strips to carbachol (0.3-20 microM) were not significantly affected by either treatment. On the other hand, neonatal capsaicin treatment, but not streptozotocin treatment, significantly enhanced contractile responses of bladder strips to electric field stimulation. PMID- 2527347 TI - Evaluation of the direct trocar insertion technique at laparoscopy. AB - A technique using direct trocar insertion for laparoscopy was introduced into the Tripler Army Medical Center Obstetrics and Gynecology training program in September 1982. From January 1, 1983 to December 31, 1985, a total of 1249 laparoscopic procedures were performed. Detailed records of 937 laparoscopic procedures performed using this technique were reviewed. The technique was used with increasing frequency: 40% in 1983, 85% in 1984, and 96% of all laparoscopies in 1985. There were no major complications. With increased departmental experience, the frequency of minor complications decreased: 5.3% in 1983, 5.0% in 1984, and 1.3% in 1985. Obesity was associated with a significantly increased risk of minor complications (P less than .001). A history of abdominal surgery was not associated with an increased risk of minor complications. Surgical skill level was not associated with the complication rate. PMID- 2527346 TI - Mass vaccination against hepatitis B in preschool children: immunogenicity after three reduced doses. AB - The immunising effect of three reduced doses of Merck Sharp and Dohme (MSD) H-B Vax plasma derived vaccine delivered at monthly intervals was evaluated in 1225 four year old children. Eighteen children had evidence of previous or current infection with HBV. Of the remaining 1207 children, 1186 (98.3%) had antibody to hepatitis B surface antigen (anti-HBs) when tested by enzyme immunoassay (EIA). Levels of anti-HBs in 96 randomly selected sera were independently quantitated by radioimmunoassay (RIA) and all were positive for anti-HBs, with a geometric mean titre of 1013. There was no significant difference in seroconversion or anti-HBs levels between the groups of children nationwide. In 19 of the 39 centres, seroconversion was 100%. No centre had less than 92% seroconversion. This study confirms that three 2 microgram doses of MSD H-B Vax plasma derived vaccine given intramuscularly (IM) at monthly intervals are highly immunogenic in this paediatric population. PMID- 2527348 TI - Steroid secretion by a virilizing lipoid cell ovarian tumor: origins of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate. AB - A 78-year-old woman had a 3-year history of severe virilization caused by a lipoid cell ovarian tumor localized by pelvic ultrasound examination and NP-59 scan. Steroid secretion was evaluated by the following: 1) peripheral plasma levels before and after hormonal stimulation with ACTH or hCG, 2) venous catheterization and measurement of steroid levels in the left and right ovarian veins during surgery, 3) measurements of enzymatic activities in the tumor tissue compared with those in normal ovarian tissue, and 4) steroid secretion studies in vitro of the tumor tissue, surrounding tissue, and contralateral ovarian tissue. The tumor tissue secreted both delta 5 and delta 4 androgens, including dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate. Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate was also secreted by the surrounding and contralateral ovarian tissue. PMID- 2527349 TI - Use of a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist analogue for treatment of cyclic auditory dysfunction. AB - A patient with cyclic luteal phase high-frequency hearing loss is described. This was documented by pre- and post-menstrual audiograms indicating a 40-dB hearing loss in the luteal phase. This had been long-standing and was resistant to oral contraceptive therapy. A gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (nafarelin) was used to inhibit ovarian function and was successful in preventing loss of hearing for the 6-month treatment period. PMID- 2527350 TI - [The effect of acute respiratory diseases during pregnancy on several characteristics of the T-immunity system in newborn infants]. AB - Altogether 63 neonates whose mothers had experienced acute respiratory diseases during pregnancy were examined. The data obtained made it possible to include the children born to mothers with a history of acute respiratory diseases in the III trimester of pregnancy into the risk group of infectious process development. PMID- 2527351 TI - Development of functional use of oral language in a child with Down syndrome. AB - A single-subject design was applied to study increase in functional use of language by a 14-yr.-old Down Syndrome girl from a mean length of utterance of 1.3 words to 4.4 in a classroom, 5.1 in the restaurant, and 4.7 during transportation. PMID- 2527353 TI - Effects of all single base substitutions in the loop of boxB on antitermination of transcription by bacteriophage lambda's N protein. AB - The 'N' antitermination proteins of lambdoid bacteriophages are essential for overcoming multiple transcription terminators located within the major early operons of these phages (1). In order for N proteins to function, a genome sequence specifying N utilization, nut, must be located within an operon, between the promoter and the terminators (2). Two components have been identified within nut: 8-base boxA, conserved among different phages and implicated in the recognition of host NusA protein, required for N function (3); 15-base boxB, an interrupted palindrome (4), diverged in sequence among different lambdoid phages and hypothesized to be the site of recognition for different N proteins, also diverged in sequence (5). Here we apply a plasmid for testing termination and antitermination of transcription (6) to identify mutations at all positions in the 5-7 base loop of lambda's boxB. Almost every base change at any position within the 5-7 base boxB loop was found to constrain antitermination of transcription by the N protein of bacteriophage lambda. These observations extend previous mutational knowledge of nut (7) and are consistant with the hypothesis that the boxB loop is the direct site of recognition for N protein. Variations among the effects of different base changes suggest differential contacts between N protein and bases of the boxB loop, whether in DNA or RNA. PMID- 2527352 TI - Purified U5 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein can relieve the inhibition of spliceosome assembly and splicing by snRNP-free nuclear proteins. AB - As demonstrated by RNase T1 protection assays at 0 degrees C without ATP, U1 and U5 snRNPs purified by isopycnic centrifugation in cesium chloride bind to the 5' and 3' splice sites of human beta-globin pre-mRNA, respectively. We also devised a saturation-complementation assay and have found that this purified U5 snRNP, unlike U1, successfully competes with snRNP-free fractions of nuclear proteins which inhibit spliceosome assembly and splicing. Restoration of activity requires intact U5 snRNA and correlates with the presence of the 100 Kd intron binding protein (IBP) which we have previously characterized (Tazi et al., 1986, Cell 47, 755-766). Our results are compatible with a model in which the recognition of the 3' splice site by IBP-U5 snRNP is one of the earliest events of the spliceosome assembly. It could organize the structure of the 3' splice site region of the human beta-globin like pre-mRNAs. However, on the basis of results showing that beta-globin and major late adenovirus seem to have different requirements with respect to IBP-U5 snRNP, it appears that some pre-mRNAs could have a native structure that necessitates less if at all IBP-U5. PMID- 2527354 TI - Fast light-regulated genes of Neurospora crassa. AB - Several physiological reactions including the sexual differentiation of the ascomycete Neurospora crassa are triggered by blue light. Mutants in the white collar genes wc-1 and wc-2 are blind for all the blue light effects tested so far. We have previously shown that blue light induces some translatable mRNAs at different times after beginning the illumination. Here we report the cDNA cloning of four genes that are induced by blue light. Induction of these transcripts is temporally ordered (lag times from 2 to 45 min). Analysis of run-on transcripts show that the increases in mRNA levels are due to de novo transcription. None of these transcripts is inducible in white-collar mutants. PMID- 2527355 TI - Studies of heterologous promoter trans-activation by the HTLV-II tax protein. AB - The tax protein of HTLV-II increases the level of steady-state mRNA produced from the HTLV-II long terminal repeat (LTR) and also activates heterologous promoters. We have previously shown that the adenovirus E3 promoter, which is trans activated by the adenovirus E1a protein, is also trans-activated by the tax protein. To investigate the mechanism of trans-activation by tax, we analyzed E3 promoter deletion mutants to determine nucleotide sequence requirements for activation of this promoter. Our results show that removal of different upstream regions within the promoter does not result in loss of trans-activation, indicating that tax does not appear to interact with a single DNA binding protein to activate the E3 promoter. In addition, tax and E1a together activate the E3 promoter in a greater than additive fashion, suggesting that these proteins function differently. Possible mechanisms of activation by the tax protein are discussed. PMID- 2527356 TI - DNA microstructural requirements for neocarzinostatin chromophore-induced direct strand cleavage. AB - The microstructural requirements for optimal interaction of neocarzinostatin chromophore (NCS-C) with DNA have been investigated using a series of hexadeoxyribonucleotides with modified bases such as O6-methyl G (MeG), I, 5 methyl C (MeC), U, or 5-Bromo U (BrU) at specific sites in its preferred trinucleotide 5'GNaNb3':5'Na,Nb,C3' (Na = A, C, or T). Results show that MeG:C and G:MeC in place of G:C improve direct strand cleavage at the target Nb (Nb = T greater than A much greater than C greater than G), whereas MeC:G and C:MeG in place of Na:Nb, hinder cleavage. The optimal base target at Nb appears to be determined by its ability to form T:A type base pairing instead of C:G type. The observed differences in DNA strand cleavage patterns can be rationalized by induced changes in target site structure and are compatible with a model for NCS C:DNA interaction in which the naphthoate moiety intercalates between 5'GNa3', and the activated tetrahydro-s-indacene, lying in the minor groove, abstracts a hydrogen atom from C-5' of Nb. PMID- 2527358 TI - Isolating DNA segments from cloned libraries without screening by affinity selection of PCR products. PMID- 2527357 TI - Nucleotide sequence of the dcm locus of Escherichia coli K12. PMID- 2527359 TI - Huntington's chorea: implications for nursing in India. AB - Huntington's Chorea is a rare hereditary disease characterized by chronic progressive chorea and dementia, the exact cause of which is still under study, although many hypotheses are present. The patient has abnormality in gait, choreic movements of the limbs, face, slow mental deterioration and ill sustained depression. At later stages the patient becomes emaciated and succumbs. It is yet untreatable and diagnosed by CT Scans, bio-chemical analysis, family history and classic clinic picture. This disease poses a challenge for effective nursing care. There are studies conducted about the nursing aspects--effects of individualized care, effect of musical therapy. It has been shown that diversional therapies, short walks and giving the patient freedom in activities of daily living would help. The prevention at the present day seems to be voluntary sterilization of those at risk after proper counselling. PMID- 2527360 TI - Palmoplantar hyperkeratosis with short stature, facial dysmorphism, and hypodontia--a new syndrome?: case report. AB - In this study, a possible new syndrome affecting 18 members of a family spanning 4 generations is described. The main features include palmoplantar hyperkeratosis, proportionate short stature, facial dysmorphism, clinodactyly, epilepsy, deafness, and hypodontia. This syndrome is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner with a high degree of penetrance but variable expressivity. This syndrome differs markedly from the autosomal recessive types of palmoplantar hyperkeratosis such as Papillon-Lefevre syndrome which shows premature loss of both dentitions. It is also distinct from other previously described cases of autosomal dominant forms of palmoplantar hyperkeratosis such as the Unna-Thost syndrome in that it presents short stature, facial dysmorphism, and hypodontia. These features which previously have not been associated with palmoplantar hyperkeratosis suggest that this may be a new syndrome. PMID- 2527361 TI - AIDS in San Francisco. PMID- 2527362 TI - Cross infection control: a 'no-win' situation? PMID- 2527363 TI - [Mechanism of suppression of testosterone biosynthesis by ethanol]. AB - The paper is concerned with a study of the mechanism of ethanol induced testosterone biosynthesis inhibition in rat testis. The time course of acute alcoholic intoxication (4 g of ethanol per 1 kg of body mass) has shown that the size and direction of testosterone concentration shifts resemble those of corticosterone. The level of the latter correlates with the ethanol concentration rising at the early time of the experiment and lowering up to 26-27% in 4-8 h. The content of testis cyclic AMP, leu-enkephalin and beta-endorphin remains unchanged indicating against the hypothesis of ethanol effects mediation by the testicular opioid system. PMID- 2527364 TI - Serum- and oncoprotein-mediated induction of a gene with sequence similarity to the gene encoding carcinoembryonic antigen. AB - We describe the molecular identification of a gene, designated T1, whose expression in mouse NIH 3T3 cells is strongly induced by the Ha-ras(EJ) and v-mos oncogenes and by serum. The T1 gene encodes a 38.5-kDa protein, as predicted from its primary sequence and shown by in vitro translation. The protein was processed at its amino terminus and extensively modified by N-linked glycosylation in vitro in the presence of microsomal vesicles. Sequence comparison of T1 with the MIPSX data base (Max-Planck-Institut fur Biochemie, Martinsried/Munich) revealed similarity to the human carcinoembryonic antigen, a tumor marker which is overexpressed in colon adenocarcinomas and in fetal tissues. Considerable sequence similarity has also been observed to the short conserved region of other proteins which, like carcinoembryonic antigen, are encoded by members of the immunoglobulin gene superfamily. PMID- 2527365 TI - Xenopus homolog of the mos protooncogene transforms mammalian fibroblasts and induces maturation of Xenopus oocytes. AB - The oncogene v-mos transforms mammalian fibroblasts and encodes a serine/threonine protein kinase. Expression of the c-mos protooncogene is most abundant in germ cells, suggesting a normal role for c-mos in meiosis. Here we describe the isolation of cDNA clones containing the complete coding region of the Xenopus laevis homolog of c-mos (mosxe). The mosxe gene is transforming when introduced into murine NIH 3T3 cells, and transformation is abrogated by a lysine to-arginine mutation in the canonical ATP-binding site. Microinjection of in vitro transcribed mosxe RNA into prophase-arrested Xenopus oocytes causes a resumption of meiosis, leading to germinal vesicle breakdown and oocyte maturation. Oocyte maturation was not observed after microinjection of in vitro transcribed mosxe RNA encoding the lysine-to-arginine mutation. These results demonstrate that the mosxe-encoded protein can induce progression through the cell cycle for both meiotic and mitotic cells and that this property is dependent on the presumptive ATP-binding domain in the protein kinase. PMID- 2527366 TI - Alteration in membrane protein band 3 associated with accelerated erythrocyte aging. AB - We report a human band 3 alteration that is associated with anemia as determined by a reticulocyte count of 20%. Erythrocyte defects included increased IgG binding, increased breakdown products of band 3, and altered anion- and glucose transport activity in middle-aged cells. These changes were observed during normal erythrocyte aging in situ. Binding of ankyrin to band 3 was normal. Serum/cell crossover studies indicated that a neoantigen appears on the propositus' erythrocytes to which IgG from both propositus and control serum binds as measured with a protein A binding assay. IgG eluted from the propositus' erythrocytes appeared to have a specificity for senescent cell antigen as determined by a phagocytosis inhibition assay. Immunoelectron microscopy showed that antibodies to band 3, which do not normally bind to intact erythrocytes, bound to the propositus' erythrocytes. Antibody 980 binds to normal old cells but not young or middle-aged cells. It also binds to a distinct region of band 3 in immunoblots of membranes from the propositus' middle-aged cells. Cells from both of the propositus' parents exhibited increased IgG binding and altered anion and glucose transport. The results of these studies suggest that (i) band 3 is aging prematurely in erythrocytes from the propositus, (ii) senescent cell antigen appears on the propositus' middle-aged red cells, and (iii) band 3 alterations observed in the propositus may have a genetic component. PMID- 2527367 TI - Purification of scatter factor, a fibroblast-derived basic protein that modulates epithelial interactions and movement. AB - Scatter factor is a fibroblast-derived protein that causes separation of contiguous epithelial cells and increased local mobility of unanchored cells. Highly purified scatter factor has been obtained by a combination of ion-exchange and reverse-phase chromatography from serum-free medium conditioned by a ras transformed clone (D4) of mouse NIH 3T3 fibroblasts. Under nonreducing conditions scatter factor has a pI of approximately 9.5 and migrates in SDS/polyacrylamide gels as a single band at approximately 62 kDa from which epithelial scatter activity can be recovered. Treatment with reducing agents destroys biological activity and is associated with the appearance of two major bands at approximately 57 and approximately 30 kDa. Whether both the 57-kDa and 30-kDa polypeptides are required for biological activity remains to be established. All the activities observed in crude medium conditioned by cells producing scatter factor are retained by highly purified preparations of scatter factor. These include (i) increased local movement, modulation of morphology, and inhibition of junction formation by single epithelial cells and (ii) disruption of epithelial interactions and cell scattering from preformed epithelial sheets. These changes occur with picomolar concentrations of purified scatter factor and without an effect on cell growth. PMID- 2527368 TI - Critical role of the D21S55 region on chromosome 21 in the pathogenesis of Down syndrome. AB - The duplication of a specific region of chromosome 21 could be responsible for the main features of Down syndrome. To define and localize this region, we analyzed at the molecular level the DNA of two patients with partial duplication of chromosome 21. These patients belong to two groups of Down syndrome patients characterized by different partial trisomies 21: (i) duplication of the long arm, proximal to 21q22.2, and (ii) duplication of the end of the chromosome, distal to 21q22.2 We assessed the copy number of five chromosome 21 sequences (SOD1, D21S17, D21S55, ETS2, and D21S15) and found that D21S55 was duplicated in both cases. By means of pulsed-field gel analysis and with the knowledge of regional mapping of the probes D21S17, D21S55 and ETS2, we estimated the size of the common duplicated region to be between 400 and 3000 kilobases. This region, localized on the proximal part of 21q22.3, is suspected to contain genes the overexpression of which is crucial in the pathogenesis of Down syndrome. PMID- 2527369 TI - 20S small nuclear ribonucleoprotein U5 shows a surprisingly complex protein composition. AB - U5 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP), purified from HeLa nuclear extracts (splicing extracts), shows a complex protein composition. In addition to the snRNP proteins B', B, D, D', E, F, and G, which are present in each of the major snRNPs U1, U2, U4/U6, and U5, U5 snRNP contains a number of unique proteins characterized by apparent molecular masses of 40, 52, 100, 102, 116, and 200 (mostly a double band) kDa. The latter set of proteins may be regarded as U5 specific for the following reasons. They are not only eluted specifically, together with snRNP particles, from anti-2,2,7-trimethylguanosine immunoaffinity columns by 7-methylguanosine, they also cofractionate with U5 snRNP during chromatography and, most importantly, in glycerol gradient centrifugation. These U5 snRNP particles show a high sedimentation constant of about 20S. U5 snRNPs that lack the U5-specific proteins are also found in nuclear extracts but have (in comparison) a lower sedimentation value of only 8-10S. Autoimmune sera from patients with systemic lupus erythematosus were identified that, on immunoblots with purified U5 snRNP proteins, reacted selectively with the 100- or 200-kDa proteins. This indicates that at least the high molecular mass U5-specific proteins are structurally distinct and not derived one from the other by proteolytic degradation. The existence of so many unique proteins in the U5 snRNP suggests that this snRNP particle may exert its function during splicing mainly by virtue of its protein components. PMID- 2527372 TI - Involvement of prostanoids in the pulmonary pressor effect of histamine. AB - The role of prostanoids in the pulmonary actions of histamine(HA) was investigated using various antagonists and assay organs in superfusion cascade. Intraarterial injection of HA to the perfused lung caused contractions of rabbit aorta, rat stomach strips, guinea pig trachea, but contraction followed by relaxation of bovine coronary artery, superfused with lung effluent. Lung effluent produced no significant changes in resting tensions of guinea pig ileum or rat colon. The thromboxane synthetase inhibitor, UK 38485, reduced and the thromboxane/prostaglandin receptor antagonist, SQ 29548 abolished HA-induced contractions of all superfused assay tissues. Both contractile and relaxant responses of bovine coronary artery were completely inhibited by indomethacin. The pulmonary pressor effect of HA was also significantly inhibited by all of these antagonists. Our results indicate that HA releases thromboxane A2, prostaglandin endoperoxides, and prostacyclin but not leukotriene and prostaglandin E2- like substances from the guinea pig lung. PMID- 2527371 TI - Human endomembrane H+ pump strongly resembles the ATP-synthetase of Archaebacteria. AB - Preparations of mammalian H+ pumps that acidify intracellular vesicles contain eight or nine polypeptides, ranging in size from 116 to 17 kDa. Biochemical analysis indicates that the 70- and 58-kDa polypeptides are subunits critical for ATP hydrolysis. The amino acid sequences of the major catalytic subunits (58 and 70 kDa) of the endomembrane H+ pump are unknown from animal cells. We report here the complete sequence of the 58-kDa subunit derived from a human kidney cDNA clone and partial sequences of the 70- and 58-kDa subunits purified from clathrin coated vesicles of bovine brain. The amino acid sequences of both proteins strongly resemble the sequences of the corresponding subunits of the vacuolar H+ pumps of Archaebacteria, plants, and fungi. The archaebacterial enzyme is believed to use a H+ gradient to synthesize ATP. Thus, a common ancestral protein has given rise to a H+ pump that synthesizes ATP in one organism and hydrolyzes it in another and is highly conserved from prokaryotes to humans. The same pump appears to mediate the acidification of intracellular organelles, including coated vesicles, lysosomes, and secretory granules, as well as extracellular fluids such as urine. PMID- 2527370 TI - In vitro galactosylation of a 110-kDa glycoprotein by an endogenous cell surface galactosyltransferase correlates with the invasiveness of adrenal carcinoma cells. AB - We have examined the role of a cell surface galactosyltransferase, laminin, and laminin-binding protein (receptor) in the invasion of clonal derivatives of a murine adrenal carcinoma cell line. Although a 10-fold variation was found in the ability to invade a reconstituted basement membrane matrix, levels of intracellular laminin and the laminin-binding protein were shown to be present and secreted equally in all lines. Of the eight lines tested, seven showed a correlation between invasion and the incorporation of [3H]galactose from UDP [3H]galactose into a 90- to 110-kDa protein. One noninvasive line (clone HSR), however, retained high galactosyltransferase activity yet could not galactosylate the endogenous 90- to 110-kDa substrate. Interestingly, this clone was unable to attach to laminin. Although high galactosyltransferase activity can be consistent with cells of high invasiveness, our results suggest that the galactosylation status of a 90- to 110-kDa Y1 cell surface glycoprotein is most indicative of invasion potential. PMID- 2527374 TI - Picosecond fluorescence of R3230AC mammary carcinoma mitochondria after treatment with hematoporphyrin derivative and Photofrin II in vivo. AB - Hematoporphyrin derivative (HPD) and other porphyrin samples were excited by 20 ps 532-nm laser pulses. Fluorescence was detected using a low-jitter streak camera. Data were fitted to a sum of exponential decay times on the order of picoseconds. Fluorescence of porphyrins in aqueous solution show various behaviors depending on the hydrophobicity of the porphyrins. The most hydrophilic porphyrins show long decays only (greater than 500 ps). Porphyrins intermediate in hydrophobicity have intensity-dependent fast decays. The most hydrophobic have fast decays (less than 20 ps). Picosecond fluorescences of mitochondria prepared from rat tumors treated in vivo with HPD or Photofrin II show an increase in the ratio of fast to slow decays when compared to the injected porphyrins. These results are consistent with the concentration of the more hydrophobic porphyrins in mitochondria in photosensitization treatment. Thus picosecond fluorescence studies of porphyrins may provide a means to obtain photoproperties which differentiate between effective and ineffective in vivo photosensitizers. PMID- 2527373 TI - Effect of propranolol on ischemic myocardial damage and left ventricular hypertrophy following permanent coronary artery occlusion or occlusion followed by reperfusion. AB - This study was designed to assess the effect of propranolol for limiting myocardial damage and hypertrophy in rats with permanent coronary artery occlusion or occlusion followed by reperfusion. Rats were subjected to occlusion of the left main coronary artery for 48 h (MI) or 0.5 h of occlusion followed by reperfusion for 47.5 h (MI/R). Myocardial injury was determined by measuring the depletion of creatine phosphokinase (CK) levels from the left ventricular free wall. In comparison to sham-occluded animals, myocardial CK levels were significantly decreased by 40% in MI + vehicle animals and 30% in MI/R + vehicle animals. Propranolol (0.3 mg/kg 1 min before occlusion followed by 1 mg/kg at 4 and 24 h after occlusion) significantly reduced the loss of myocardial CK specific activity in MI animals, but failed to prevent the loss of CK-specific activity in animals subjected to coronary artery reperfusion. Left ventricular hypertrophy developed to a similar extent in both vehicle-treated MI and MI/R groups. Propranolol had no effect on the myocardial hypertrophy in MI or MI/R animals. Likewise, in MI/R animals no diminution of polymorphonuclear leukocyte infiltration was seen with propranolol. These data indicate that propranolol had a significant cardioprotective effect in rats with permanent coronary artery occlusion but failed to salvage ischemic tissue, reduce myocardial hypertrophy or mitigate neutrophil infiltration in animals with early reperfusion of the ischemic myocardium. These results suggest that propranolol may afford a significant protection of the ischemic myocardium, but the combination of reperfusion and propranolol may not result in any greater reduction in infarct size than reperfusion alone. PMID- 2527375 TI - A new approach to massive abdominal tumors using immediate abdominal wall reconstruction. PMID- 2527376 TI - Dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate/cortisol ratio in panic disorder. AB - We hypothesized that the dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate (DHEA-S)/cortisol ratio, which has been used as an index of adrenocortical function, would be altered in panic disorder patients and would change after treatment. We evaluated 10 male and 14 female outpatients meeting DSM-III-R criteria for panic disorder. Of these 24 subjects, 13 were treated with clonazepam, 8 were treated with alprazolam, and 3 were treated with placebo as part of a double-blind study. The DHEA-S/cortisol ratio values in the 24 patients with panic disorder (mean = 20.5, SD = 11.6) were significantly higher than those of a group of 60 normal controls (mean = 11.5, SD = 6.01) and were also significantly higher than those of a group of 22 depressed patients (mean = 10.6, SD = 6.33). Although there was no significant difference in the pretreatment DHEA-S/cortisol ratio values between male (mean = 23.6, SD = 11.8) and female (mean = 18.2, SD = 11.3) panic disorder patients, the effects of treatment on this ratio differed between the two sexes. In fact, in the female patients there was a significant decrease in the DHEA-S/cortisol ratio at the end of the study (mean = 15.1, SD = 7.9), while in the male patients there was no significant change in this ratio at the end of the study (mean = 30.2, SD = 21.4). No significant differences were noted between pretreatment and posttreatment DHEA-S/cortisol ratio values in patients treated with alprazolam (n = 8), in patients treated with clonazepam (n = 13), or in patients treated with placebo (n = 3).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527377 TI - Camptocormia and perceived pain. PMID- 2527378 TI - [Photosensitized inactivation of HeLa tumor cells by phthalocyanines]. AB - The combined effect of tetrasulfonated phthalocyanine (TSPC, 1.0 microM) or chloroaluminum phthalocyanine (CAPC, 1.0 microM) and copper vapour laser radiation (lambda = 670 nm) causes a dose dependent decrease in the survival rate of HeLa cells at exponential and stationary growth phases estimated by the trypan blue exclusion test or colony-forming ability test. TSPC is two times and CAPC seven times more effective, with regard to lethality, than the known photosensitizer, a hematoporphyrin derivative. PMID- 2527379 TI - [Clinical and therapeutic aspects of some rare forms of pancreatic tumors]. AB - A total of 198 tumours of the pancreas have been hospitalized between 1972 and 1987 in the 1st Surgical Clinic from Jassy. Only 10 of these tumours were benign, and these included: 2 gastrinomas, 2 insulinomas, 2 cystadenomas, one fibrolipoma, 1 lymphangioma, one hydatic cyst and a Wermer's syndrome. The particularities are analysed, of these 10 cases of benign tumours of the pancreas, and it is stressed that most of the clinical and therapeutic problems are determined by tumours of the endocrine pancreas, and especially those which are hormonally active. Thus the symptomatology of these last tumours which is difficult to evaluate, especially at the onset of the symptoms will determine a considerable delay in the surgical diagnosis, many of the patients being hospitalized in other departments before reaching the surgeon. Present possibilities for diagnosis and treatment have kept pace with progresses achieved in the field of investigations, which provide useful data from the morphological and functional viewpoints. All the 10 cases mentioned above have benefited from the surgical treatment, that was adapted according to particularities of each patient. The authors stress the importance of the extemporaneous morpho histologic examination (with serial slides) and when the tumours are difficult to identify by direct macroscopic examination they recommend intraoperative echography and direct hormonal dosages on samples obtained from the portal circulation before and during surgery. PMID- 2527380 TI - [Indications for pancreatectomy in chronic pancreatitis]. AB - The authors have considered the experience acquired in connection with 15 cases of chronic pancreatitis in whom surgery was performed, and define the parameters which make mandatory surgical interventions in this affection. PMID- 2527381 TI - [Indications for right-sided and total pancreatectomy]. AB - The files were studied of 362 patients hospitalized in the Surgical Clinic from Tg. Mures in the last 20 years with various primary or secondary pancreatic affections, and for whom curative, palliative or exploratory surgery was indicated. Of the total 307 had pancreatic cancers, 16 had Vater ampulomas, 23 had gastric cancers, and 5 had primary duodenal tumours. In six patients pseudotumoral chronic pancreatitis was found, 2 had retroperitoneal tumours, and 3 had pancreatic cysts, lymphoma of the spleen, and mesenteric tumour. A total of 212 palliative surgical interventions were performed, 75 radical interventions (pancreatic reactions), and in another 75 patients simple laparotomies were done. In 45 of the pancreatic resections the duodenum was also removed. The other 30 cases included 6 total resections, 6 subtotal pancreatic resections and 18 resections of the left part of the pancreas. PMID- 2527382 TI - [Chronic pancreatitis: anatomico-clinical and surgical therapy characteristics. Our experience with 321 cases]. AB - Chronic pancreatitis of biliary origin, frequently located in the cephalic portion of the organ, etiopathogenically dependent on biliary lithiasis, the anatomoclinical evolution of which is complicated by their presence, have a better prognosis, and are usually reversible following therapy of the biliary affections. Persistent chronic pancreatitis proper, usually of the recurrent type, associated with calcification and the development of pancreatic stones, and with pseudocysts, although rare in our country, raise diagnostic difficulties from the standpoint of surgery, and have a reserved prognosis. The authors have evaluated a total of 321 cases hospitalized between 1960 and 1987 with chronic pancreatitis of biliary origin (252 cases--78.5%), and chronic pancreatitis proper, not associated to biliary affections (69 cases--21.5%). Male patients totalled 33.6% of all cases. The authors stress the high frequency of chronic pancreatitis associated to biliary lithiasis (181 cases), in contrast with pancreatitis associated to nonlithiasic cholecystopathies (38 cases), or to postoperative cholecystic disturbances (33 cases). Chronic pancreatitis non associated to biliary affections totalled 69 cases, of which 24 were of the persistent type, 13 were of the recurrent type, one had calcifications, two had pancreatic stones, four followed acute pancreatitis, six were complicated by pancreatic abscesses, and 9 were complicated by pseudocysts. The duration of biliary and pancreatic disturbances was between 3 and 5 years in 43.9% of the cases, and between 6 and 10 years in 21.3%. Chronic pancreatitis achieves a complex clinical syndrome, the dominant feature being the painful biliopancreatic syndrome associated to obstructive jaundice (42.4%), angiocholitis (47.6%), weight loss (46%), hepatic and renal failure (10.9%), diabetes (8.4%), and a tumoral mass (15.7%). Indirect surgical interventions aimed at suppressing the biliary factor were carried out in 291 patients, with very good results in 56% of the cases, good results in 32%, mediocre in 7%. In 2.4% of the cases surgery failed to improve the condition of the patients. Direct interventions on the pancreas, which consisted either in pancreatic decompression or in exeresis of the gland have been performed in 30 patients. Drainage of pancreatic abscesses was done in 6 patients (2 deaths), cystic-digestive anastomoses were performed in 8 patients, Wirsung-jejunostomy in 3 patients (1 death), cystostomy in one patient, distal pancreatectomy in one patient (deceased), viscerolysis and novocaine infiltration in 11 patients. In the 321 cases of chronic pancreatitis operated by direct and indirect procedures very good PMID- 2527383 TI - [Intra-articular teratoma of the knee]. AB - An unique case is presented, never mentioned before the world specialized literature, concerning an intraarticular teratoid formation in the knee. Initially a sessile, pediculated formation 3/3 cm in size, on the interior aspect of the synovial sac, became free following an accident, and blocked the knee in the flexed position at an angle of 30 degrees, simulating rupture of the medial meniscus and intercondylar luxation. PMID- 2527384 TI - [Changes in cellular and humoral immunologic mechanisms in the postoperative period]. AB - The study attempted to evaluate the effects of anesthesia and of surgical interventions on certain humoral and cellular components of the mechanism of specific immunity. A total of 64 patients suffering with benign and malignant affections of the stomach and of the colon that had underwent resections under general anesthesia of the hypnoanalgesia type were followed at three stages of their evolution--before surgery, at 24 hours after surgery, and 7 days after surgery. Blood samples were obtained for performing the following tests: count of lymphocytes, blastic transformations test, stimulated control (with PHA and PWM), rosetting test, total number of eosinophils, high affinity eosinophils, and other tests. Electrophoretic fractions, total serum proteins, and dosage of IgG, IgM, and IgA immunoglobulins were also measured. A total of 24 tests have been performed. The patients were investigated both globally and according to sex, type of affection (malignant, or other), and by age. The results indicated a depression of the majority of the results of tests excepting those which detect precursor B, and T-helper cells, which showed a stimulation. Differentiated behaviours were also noted in the various groups with regard to the intensity of the reaction, although not with its direction. PMID- 2527386 TI - [Leukotrienes and the eye]. AB - Leukotrienes are polyunsaturated fatty acids, derive from arachidonic acid. Today they have acquired importance in biology as they are involved in the function of live organisms, especially in superior animals, in the tissues and organs and the eyes. PMID- 2527385 TI - [The electronic computer in ophthalmology]. AB - The present paper is an introduction to and information about information processing, the principal notions and mains of approach in ophthalmology. Part one is dedicated to a general presentation of computers, and information processing, giving details about the equipment, operating systems and programmes, data bases and their structure. Part two presents different aspects of the information processing involved in ophthalmology. The following applications are discussed: beginning by simple data collection and evidence for medical purposes, statistical processing, bibliography classification, teaching, continuing with problems of diagnosis and therapeutical decisions, as well as the application of medical robots and computer assistance for specific functional explorations. PMID- 2527387 TI - [The immunological aspects of Behcet's syndrome]. AB - The present paper reviews the basic clinical symptoms and associated manifestations in Behcet's syndrome, emphasizing the general character of the disease due to generalized vasculitis. The nature of the disease is discussed in view of recent data referring to the immunologic aspects. It is now accepted that a viral infection plays a role in triggering the disease and that continuous changes predominate the immune system modifying the varied clinical picture of Behcet's syndrome. PMID- 2527388 TI - [Strabismus and pseudostrabismus in premature infants]. AB - Prematurity is a factor that predisposes to strabismus. Three hundred of the 1785 children with strabismus in out patient care during the latter five years were preterm babies, showing that prematurity intervenes in 16.7% of cases in the onset of strabismus. The onset age of strabismus deviation was also earlier before the age of two in 30% of cases. Visual acuity, refraction, strabismus deviation and fixation in terms of the degree of prematurity are analyzed. Neuropsychological examination revealed neurologic disturbances in 28.2% of these children, of which 5% encephalopathy. The neurologic disturbances, frequently of polycentric origin also represent an obstacle in reestablishing binocular vision. Seven premature infants presented pseudostrabismus with abnormal kappa angle and small deviation angle due to macula ectopia. PMID- 2527389 TI - [Is it possible to give genetic counseling in pigmentary retinopathy?]. AB - The author tries to change the opinion still prevailing today according to which any pigmentary retinopathy may represent a handicap to the descendants. Pigmentary retinopathy may have several etiologies--hereditary, sex-linked, dominant autosomal or recessive autosomal, metabolic, within the framework of various mucopolysaccharidoses, secondary post inflammatory or post traumatic. Hereditary transmission is discussed recalling for isolated cases the empirical calculus of H. Maumenee on 1000 Swiss families. Genetic advice, the same as other medical prognosis must form integral part of clinical medical practice. Genetic advice must be based on perfect knowledge of the patient and his family, yet the final decision remains with the family. PMID- 2527390 TI - [Arteriosclerotic ischemic optic neuropathy. Current findings in the diagnosis and etiopathogenesis of the disease]. AB - The present paper reports a clinical-statistical study performed on 92 patients with clinical ischemic optic neuropathy. For a better assessment of the results, the diagnostic data found in a test group were compared with those in a control group, made of patients suffering from inflammatory and toxic optic neuropathy. The data permitted the disclose of the statistically important characteristics of the arteriosclerotic optic neuropathy. PMID- 2527391 TI - [The 1987/1988 new developments in drug therapy in ophthalmology]. AB - The authors present some of the most important data in medicamentous therapy in ophthalmology. PMID- 2527392 TI - [The use of grafts and prostheses in surgery on the lacrimal ducts]. AB - A description is given of the different types of grafts: venous, arterial, skin and conjunctiva, as well as prostheses of plastic material, polyvinyl, silicon, used in the reparatory and reconstructive surgery of the lacrimal ducts. The author gives the indications, advantages and drawbacks of these grafts and prostheses and emphasizes the importance of prosthesis with polyvinyl probes in the reconstructive surgery of the lacrimal ducts over other methods. PMID- 2527393 TI - [Treatment of chorioretinal degeneration and dystrophy]. AB - Although the etiopathogenesis of chorioretinal degeneration and dystrophy is unknown the therapeutical means applied have been efficient. Disc-like degeneration can be treated by photocoagulation only in the stage of complication of subretinal neoformation of vessels. Recent pathogenic studies now offer therapeutical prospects in this severe ocular affection. PMID- 2527394 TI - [Obstructive glaucoma--the comparative results with different surgical technics]. AB - The authors operated 20 eyes of secondary glaucoma, the angle being blocked by goniosynechias (obstructive glaucoma). All the eyes had a past history of 1-7 antiglaucoma operations by conventional techniques without lowering intraocular tension. The Benedikt operation was efficient in 3 of 10 eyes (compensation of less than 24 mmHg with medication); the La Roca technique in 3 of 7 eyes, and the Nesterov operation in none of the 3 eyes in which it was applied. PMID- 2527395 TI - [Corticotherapy in ophthalmology--the theoretical and practical problems]. AB - The authors review the principal elements linked to the use of cortisone in ophthalmology, emphasizing new facts concerning the action of cortisone and especially the problems connected with this treatment. PMID- 2527396 TI - [Data on the therapeutic management in eyelid wounds]. AB - The authors discuss palpebral reconstruction in simple wounds frequently encountered, showing the types of wounds in which grafts are used, or neighbouring or distal cutaneous flaps, grafts. PMID- 2527397 TI - [Diverticulum of the lacrimal sac]. AB - Diverticulum of the lacrimal sac is a rare affection. The differential diagnosis must be established with angioma, dermoid cyst, exceptionally with a meningocele, all manifested clinical as a tumefaction of the internal palpebral angle. An individualized therapeutical approach is recommended. PMID- 2527398 TI - [Corneal hemosiderosis]. AB - Two clinical cases of hematic infiltration of the cornea after severe ocular contusions are reported. Lesion of the cornea endothelium determines infiltration of the parenchyma with hemosiderin and hypofucsin, the products of hemoglobin break down. Metabolic activity of the cornea suffers, oxygen supply becomes insufficient and produces degradation of the cornea parenchyma with loss of the visual function. The affection is interpreted as a hemosiderosis process. PMID- 2527399 TI - Use of clodronate and calcitonin in hypercalcemia due to malignancy. AB - Increased bone resorption and increased renal tubular reabsorption of calcium are involved in the pathogenesis of hypercalcemia of malignancy. Clodronate and calcitonin inhibit bone resorption and have been used as therapy for malignancy associated hypercalcemia. Both drugs induce significant reductions of serum calcium but the decrease is greater with clodronate, particularly when given intravenously. While the response to calcitonin generally is of short duration, clodronate can maintain normal serum calcium values over several weeks when oral administered. Thus, from the clinical point of view clodronate is a very useful adjunct to the available therapy. PMID- 2527400 TI - Treatment of tumor hypercalcemia with clodronate. AB - In an open, controlled study 34 patients with tumor hypercalcemia of different origin were treated with clodronate. The initial dosage was 300 mg intravenously daily. After achieving normocalcemia, treatment was continued orally using 400 3200 mg/day depending on serum calcium concentration. Most patients showed normocalcemia within 1 week of treatment - only few of them needed a longer time. Fifteen of 34 patients died within the observation time of up to 24 weeks, some being normocalcemic. However, a reincrease in plasma calcium during treatment was an indicator of deterioration. Measurements of plasma parathyroid hormone (PTH) using an intact molecule radioimmunometric assay showed depressed levels before clodronate treatment started, but PTH rose after achieving normal and especially low normal calcium levels. Starting 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol [1,25(OH)2D3] values were decreased or in the lower normal range in the majority of patients, but in 6/21 patients plasma 1,25(OH)2D3 was in the upper normal range or elevated despite hypercalcemia. After lowering plasma calcium the 1,25(OH)2D3 levels increased. However, there was no significant correlation between PTH and 1,25(OH)2D3. Therefore we assume that in some patients additional stimulation of renal 1 alpha-hydroxylase by tumor products is present. PMID- 2527401 TI - Clodronate therapy of metastatic bone disease in patients with prostatic carcinoma. AB - Metastatic bone disease represents the most disabling complication in patients with prostatic carcinoma. In an open multicenter trial 80 out of 92 patients with bone metastasis due to prostatic carcinoma experienced a dramatic improvement of bone pain after treatment with 300 mg clodronate infused intravenously daily for 10 days. Further to this, 56 patients were randomly allocated to four single blind controlled therapeutic trials, assessing bone pain by daily consumption of analgesic drugs and by visual analogue scale. In the first protocol the effects of 2 weeks' treatment with intravenous infusion of either 300 mg clodronate dissolved in 500 ml saline (7 patients) or 500 ml saline (6 patients) were compared. The differences in both pain score and analgesic consumption were so striking that the trial was not extended for ethical reasons and all patients on placebo were given clodronate intravenously. Oral administration of 1200 mg clodronate for 2 weeks was completely ineffective in 11 patients. Intramuscular administration of 100 mg clodronate for 2 weeks induced in 12 patients a significant fall in analgesic consumption but not in the pain score. In most of the 13 patients given clodronate intravenously for 2 weeks bone pain relapsed fairly soon. However, in 18 patients a maintenance therapy with 1200 mg clodronate/day for at least 6 weeks after a 2-week intravenous treatment course did prevent the relapse of bone pain. In all patients given clodronate routine biochemical examination was carried out during and after treatment. For an overall follow-up of 42 patient-years hematologic toxicity was never observed. These results confirm that clodronate represents the most effective and convenient conservative treatment of patients with painful bone metastasis from prostatic carcinoma. PMID- 2527402 TI - Global control of hepatitis B through vaccination: role of hepatitis B vaccine in the Expanded Programme on Immunization. AB - Hepatitis B is a disease that affects people throughout the world, and over 200 million are persistent carriers of the hepatitis B virus (HBV). The chronic sequelae of this infection include chronic active hepatitis, cirrhosis, and primary hepatocellular carcinoma. The development of safe and highly effective hepatitis B vaccines now provides the means by which HBV infection, including the HBV chronic carrier state, can be prevented and the related mortality significantly reduced. The cost of these vaccines has significantly decreased and will soon approach levels at which the cost-effectiveness (cost per death prevented) of hepatitis B vaccine will be similar to that of other childhood vaccines. Integration of hepatitis B vaccine into the Expanded Programme on Immunization for mass vaccination of infants in areas where HBV infection is endemic and morbidity is high would be the most effective means of providing the coverage necessary for effective control and prevention. PMID- 2527403 TI - Partial inefficiency of T cell receptors gamma/delta composed of a heavy (55-kD) gamma chain to mediate cell activation upon binding to specific monoclonal antibodies. AB - We analyzed CD8+ T cell receptor (TCR) gamma/delta+ (delta-TCS-1 reactive) cell clones expressing the 55-kD gamma chain for their susceptibility to triggering by monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) specific for TCR or CD3 molecules. Clones were derived by limiting dilution from CD3+, WT31- FACS-purified peripheral blood populations or CD4-CD8- thymocytes (a fraction of the latter cells expressing de novo CD8 surface antigen upon culture in IL-2). Clones were screened according to their reactivity with both anti-CD8 and delta-TCS-1 mAbs. Analysis of CD3 associated molecules immunoprecipitated by anti-Leu-4 (anti-CD3) mAb under conditions which preserve the CD3/TCR association (1% digitonin) showed a predominant 55-60-kD molecule both under reducing and non-reducing conditions. All clones expressing the delta-TCS-1+ CD8+ surface phenotype derived from either thymus or peripheral blood lysed the Fc gamma receptor-bearing P815 target cells in the presence of anti-CD3 mAb. On the other hand, delta-TCS-1 mAb was poorly efficient in triggering the lytic machinery of these clones, while it induced target cell lysis by delta-TCS-1+ CD8- clones. PMID- 2527404 TI - A survey of inherited thrombotic syndromes in Italy. ad hoc Study Group. AB - A collaborative survey was conducted among Italian thrombosis centers to gather information about the number and clinical features of patients with inherited thrombotic syndromes. The survey, based on 74 unrelated kindreds, revealed that antithrombin III, protein C and protein S defects are the most frequent genetic disorders. Venous thromboembolism was more frequent than arterial thrombosis, which was seen in only a minority of cases, most frequently with dysfibrinogenemia. About half of the patients developed venous thrombosis with a similar incidence in antithrombin III, protein S and protein C defects. About half of the symptomatic patients had recurrences and 40% developed thrombosis after a triggering factor, most frequently after surgery, during the puerperium, pregnancy, oral contraceptive intake or bed rest. Deep venous thrombosis prevailed and superficial thrombophlebitis was rare in antithrombin III-deficient patients, whereas deep venous thrombosis was present in about half and superficial thrombophlebitis in about one third of the cases with protein S and protein C defects. The probability to be free of thrombosis decreases with increasing age and at 35 years can be estimated to be 47% both for men and women. There is, however, a group of patients who are still free of thrombosis despite their older ages. PMID- 2527405 TI - Postoperative scars and recurrent disk herniation: clinical, neuroradiological, and surgical findings. AB - Authors present 36 patients with recurrent sciatica or low-back pain after lumbar disk operation. All patients were submitted to clinical and instrumental devices. CT-scan was performed in 36 patients, 12 underwent myelography and 4 EMG. Authors verified reliability of clinical and instrumental devices on the basis of surgical results. We believe that myelo-CT is actually the first choice investigation in the neuroradiological ones. In the near future MRI will take its place in investigating spinal pathology. PMID- 2527406 TI - Failure to synthesize the human T-cell CD3-zeta chain and its consequence for the T-cell receptor-CD3 complex expression. AB - The T-cell antigen receptor is composed of two variable chains (alpha and beta, termed TcR) which confer ligand specificity, and four constant chains (gamma, delta, epsilon, and zeta, collectively termed CD3) whose functions are not fully understood. To explore the role of the individual CD3 components, the human T cell tumour line Jurkat was chemically mutagenized followed by negative selection with F101.01 (a monoclonal antibody against the TcR-CD3 complex), and cloning. Growing clones were analysed for TcR-CD3 expression by immunofluorescence. One clone, J79, was found to express greatly diminished levels of TcR-CD3. This clone produced all the TcR-CD3 components except the CD3-zeta, as demonstrated by metabolic labelling and immunoprecipitation followed by one- and two-dimensional sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. These data indicate that the CD3-zeta determines the normal intracellular fate of the TcR-CD3 complex, and that the CD3-zeta is necessary for the intracellular transport and expression at the cell surface of the TcR-CD3 complex. PMID- 2527407 TI - The influence of C3-coated homologous erythrocytes on pokeweed-mitogen-induced polyclonal differentiation of human B cells. AB - The present study was undertaken in order to test the hypothesis that homologous erythrocytes (E) coated in vivo with C3d could modulate the immunoglobulin (Ig) synthesis of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC), stimulated with pokeweed mitogen (PWM) in vitro. E from healthy individuals were found to enhance markedly the Ig synthesis of PMBC cultures stimulated with suboptimal doses (0.01 microgram/ml) of PWM. E coated in vivo with increasing amounts of C3d (1.4-6.3 times the amounts on normal E), obtained from patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, failed to induce any significant increase in Ig synthesis of PBMC cultures stimulated with suboptimal PWM doses, compared with cultures co stimulated in parallel with normal E. In contrast, an increase in IgM and IgG synthesis was observed in about 50% of PBMC cultures from different donors when stimulated with PWM in the presence of E coated with C3b in vivo (from a patient with congenital factor I deficiency), compared with the Ig synthesis in cultures co-stimulated in parallel with normal E. In contrast to the inability of C3d coated E to modulate B-cell proliferation, the monoclonal anti-CR2 antibody OKB7 was found to be mitogenic for unstimulated peripheral B cells. PMID- 2527408 TI - [Atrial natriuretic polypeptide in the human and rat spinal cord]. AB - The widespread distribution of atrial natriuretic polypeptide (ANP) immunoreactive material was demonstrated in the human and rat spinal cord, using specific immunogold-silver staining technique and radioimmunoassay. Immunogold silver staining studies showed that ANP immunoreactive neurons were quite prevalent in the human spinal cord. ANP immunoreactive neurons were largely found in the ventral horn and less in the dorsal and lateral horns. ANP immunoreactive material was absent with anti-ANP serum preabsorbed with ANP. In rats, radioimmunoassay demonstrated that ANP immunoreactive material was present in whole spinal cord. The highest concentration was found in the sacral spinal cord (21.9 +/- 4.48 ng/g tissue), the moderate in the lumbar (3.78 +/- 0.74 ng/g tissue) and the lowest in the cervical and thoracic (0.58 +/- 0.14 and 0.46 +/- 0.21 ng/g tissue, respectively). Gel chromatography and reverse-phase HPLC revealed multiple molecular forms in the rat spinal cord, but the main molecular form was the 28 amino acid rANP. In vivo study showed that ANP was released from the rat spinal cord by depolarizing concentration of potassium. PMID- 2527409 TI - [Effects of human atrial natriuretic factor-(99-126) on plasma and brain vasopressin in stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats]. AB - In order to investigate the interaction between atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) and arginine vasopressin (AVP) in the pathogenesis of essential hypertension, the effects of intravenous (iv) or intracerebroventricular (icv) injection of human ANF-(99-126) on plasma and brain AVP, as well as mean arterial pressure (MAP), urinary volume (UV) and sodium (UNaV) excretion in stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRsp) and age-matched normotensive Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY) were studied. The results showed that ten minutes after iv injection of ANF, MAP decreased by 9.4% and 12.2% (P less than 0.05), UV increased about 9 and 20 folds (P less than 0.01), UNaV increased about 16 and 29 folds (P less than 0.01) in SHRsp and WKY rats, respectively. No such significant changes in these parameters were found in the icv group. Although iv and icv injection of ANF caused significant decrease of plasma AVP in both strains, the decrease was less marked in SHRsp than in WKY rats, while the maximum decreases were 58% (iv) and 31% (icv) in SHRsp, the corresponding values were 80% (iv) and 65% (icv) in WKY. Intravenous and intracerebroventricular injection of ANF also induced significant increase of hypothalamic AVP in both SHRsp and WKY rats, but no significant change could be found in hypophyseal AVP content. The results suggest that decreased sensitivity of AVP inhibition as well as less marked hypotensive, diuretic and natriuretic effects to ANF in SHRsp might play a role in the pathogenesis of their hypertension. PMID- 2527410 TI - Ultrasonic measurement of lumbar canal diameter: a screening tool for low back disorders? AB - Preventive screening measures for low back pain are limited. Despite considerable evidence that anatomic narrowing of the lumbar spinal canal is a risk factor for specific back problems, difficulty in measuring the canal without unacceptable radiation exposure, cost, or discomfort has limited the assessment of its clinical significance. Using ultrasound to measure the lumbar canal is relatively easy to do, and provides accurate values. In this paper we review the reports on this use of ultrasound, including our own experience in a case control study, and discuss the potential use of ultrasonic measurement as a screening tool to identify narrow lumbar canals. PMID- 2527411 TI - [Ways of solving the problems of the control of malignant neoplasms in the RSFSR]. PMID- 2527412 TI - [Improving the organization of services for patients with malignant neoplasms of the head and neck]. PMID- 2527413 TI - [Value of laparoscopy in the diagnosis and treatment of appendicular infiltrates]. PMID- 2527414 TI - A molecular service for Huntington disease in southern Africa. PMID- 2527416 TI - [Formation of the identity of the handicapped child]. PMID- 2527415 TI - [Treatment of advanced prostatic carcinoma with a depot LH-RH analog (ICI 118630)]. AB - Twenty-two patients with newly diagnosed advanced prostatic cancer treated with once-monthly subcutaneous injection of a long acting depot preparation of a new luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone superagonist (ICI 118,630) with a minimum follow-up duration of 6 months are reported. The partial regression rate was 45.4% while 36.4% of the patients had stable disease and only 18.2% have progressed by P.O.N.CA.P. criteria. Patient acceptance was excellent and side effects occurring during treatment (hot flashes, gynecomastia, etc.) were minimal. The depot preparation of the LH-RH analogue was well tolerated and no side effects required dose modifications or removal from the study. Depot LH-RH analogue may become an alternative treatment for patients with advanced prostatic cancer if further clinical evolutions will confirm that the response rate with LH RH analogue is comparable to the conventional endocrine therapies. PMID- 2527417 TI - Angioplasty--hospital costs, 1986. PMID- 2527419 TI - Skeletal muscle ventricles: improved performance at physiologic preloads. AB - We attempted to construct skeletal muscle ventricles (SMVs) so that they would develop optimal stroke work at physiologic preloads of 5 to 15 mm Hg. Thirty-one SMVs were constructed in mongrel dogs. The effects of electrical preconditioning with 2 Hz continuous and 25 Hz burst patterns were evaluated, as well as the application of passive stretch to the muscle fibers during preconditioning. We evaluated the stroke work developed by these SMVs at afterloads of 30 mm Hg and 80 mm Hg in vivo, using a mock circulation device. During mock circulation studies, the SMVs were stimulated via the thoracodorsal nerve with either a 25 Hz or 85 Hz burst pattern. SMVs with 2 Hz preconditioning developed significantly higher stroke work than SMVs with 25 Hz preconditioning under all conditions of afterload, preload, and stimulation frequency (p less than or equal to 0.001). Under these conditions, for the 2 Hz preconditioned SMVs, passive stretch during preconditioning resulted in a further significant increase in developed stroke work (p less than 0.05). For these SMVs, with an 85 Hz stimulation frequency, stroke work averaged 410% of canine RV stroke work, and 59% of canine LV stroke work at physiologic preloads and afterloads. PMID- 2527418 TI - Thromboxane mediates the ischemia-induced neutrophil oxidative burst. AB - Indirect evidence exists that the reperfusion of ischemic tissue activates white blood cells. Thus local and systemic reperfusion injuries are prevented by making animals leukopenic or by inhibiting white blood cell lung entrapment by blocking thromboxane A2 generation. This study tests directly whether ischemia and reperfusion activates neutrophils, as measured by their oxidative burst, and whether thromboxane mediates this event. Anesthetized rats underwent 4 hours of bilateral hind limb tourniquet ischemia followed by 60 minutes of reperfusion. Plasma thromboxane B2 levels increased to 2750 pg/ml at 5 minutes of reperfusion, higher than the sham control (n = 36) value of 370 pg/ml (p less than 0.01). In untreated ischemic animals (n = 30) the intracellular H2O2 production of circulating neutrophils, as assayed flow cytometrically by dichlorofluorescein oxidation, increased from a preischemic value of 133 to a peak of 251 femtomoles dichlorofluorescein/neutrophil at 5 minutes of reperfusion (p less than 0.01). Treatment of neutrophils with phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) 10(-7) mol/L led to a 91% increase in neutrophil H2O2 production before ischemia, and 5 minutes after reperfusion there was an enhanced response to PMA of 222% (p less than 0.01). Pretreatment of animals with the thromboxane-synthetase inhibitor OKY 046 (n = 36) prevented ischemia-induced thromboxane generation, neutrophil H2O2 production (p less than 0.05), as well as the enhanced response to PMA stimulation (p less than 0.05). Treatment with the thromboxane-receptor antagonist SQ 29,548 (n = 36) did not affect the increase in plasma thromboxane levels after ischemia but was as effective as OKY 046 in preventing the ischemia-induced increase in neutrophil H2O2 production and the enhanced response to PMA stimulation. These data indicate that lower-torso ischemia leads to neutrophil activation, manifest by H2O2 production, an event mediated by thromboxane. PMID- 2527420 TI - [Working environment. Personal care on the beat]. PMID- 2527421 TI - Supraventricular tachycardia caused by nebulised ipratropium bromide. AB - A 71 year old patient developed a supraventricular tachycardia after the administration of nebulised ipratropium bromide. PMID- 2527423 TI - Changes in the coagulation and fibrinolytic systems during and after cardiopulmonary bypass surgery. AB - Components of the coagulation and fibrinolytic systems were determined in patients undergoing open heart surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass. The variables studied included prothrombin, antithrombin-III, spontaneous plasmin activity, plasminogen and functional antiplasmin activity. The variables were measured using chromogenic peptide substrate assays. A marked, transitory, increase in spontaneous plasmin activity prior to cardiopulmonary bypass, but after heparin injection was found. A decrease in antiplasmin activity during bypass was observed, while actual plasminogen level, when correcting for hemodilution, was unchanged. Both prothrombin and antithrombin-III paralleled the decrease in hemoglobin concentration during bypass. These findings suggest that the injection of heparin induced a transient activation of the fibrinolytic system, whereas no detectable consumption of the measured coagulation variables was observed. PMID- 2527422 TI - Isradipine: a potent calcium blocker with beneficial effects on platelet function and vascular prostacyclin production. AB - Calcium blockers inhibit platelet aggregation induced in vitro by various stimuli, such as ADP and collagen. In this study the in vitro effects of isradipine, a new dihydropyridine-derivative, and of nifedipine on platelet aggregation and malondialdehyde-production were tested. The lowest concentrations affecting ADP-induced platelet aggregation were 1.0 micrograms/ml isradipine and 12.5 micrograms/ml nifedipine. Both drugs exhibited an inhibitory action on malondialdehyde-production in concentrations 2 to 3 times lower than those affecting platelet aggregation. In vitro, PGI2-formation by rat aortic rings incubated with calcium blockers was increased in a dose-dependent manner. The lowest concentration of isradipine which increased PGI2-generation amounted 0.5 micrograms/ml. The corresponding value for nifedipine was 10 micrograms/ml. The findings demonstrate isradipine to be more potent than nifedipine in affecting in vitro platelet aggregation and enhancing PGI2-formation. PMID- 2527424 TI - An agenda for the future. PMID- 2527425 TI - The magnitude of the occupational disease problem: an investigation in New York State. PMID- 2527426 TI - The human T-cell receptor gamma (TRG) genes. AB - The human T-cell receptor gamma (TRG) chain genes, like those encoding the T-cell receptor alpha- and beta-polypeptides, undergo rearrangements specifically in T cells. The human TRG locus, which has been completely mapped, is composed of two constant region genes (TRGC), five joining segments (TRGJ) and at least 14 variable gamma-genes (TRGV). Eight variable genes are functional and belong to four different subgroups. The product of the rearranged TRG gene is the gamma chain which is expressed, along with the delta-chain, at the surface of a subset of T lymphocytes. Although some gamma delta + cells display a cytolytic activity, their precise function remains to be elucidated. PMID- 2527427 TI - Angioplasty, restenosis, and antiplatelet therapy. PMID- 2527428 TI - Contamination of drinking water during collection and storage. AB - Drinking water contamination during abstraction, storage and use was determined in a suburban community in Rangoon, Burma, by detecting faecal coliforms (FC) with membrane filtration method. Increasing contamination during water collection, from the source to home storage, was found in all the studied households using 4 different types of drinking water. The implications of the findings are discussed. PMID- 2527429 TI - An experimental investigation of streaming in pulsed diagnostic ultrasound beams. AB - Streaming is shown to occur in water in the focused beams produced by a number of medical pulse-echo devices. The use of hot film anemometry to measure the streaming velocity is described and velocities measured in water using commercial equipment are quoted. The highest velocities occur in pulsed Doppler mode with a maximum velocity of 14 cm s-1 being observed. An experimental set-up was used to investigate the parameters affecting streaming and it was found that the harmonic content of the pulse waveform had a major effect on the streaming velocity. The time taken for a stream to become established at the focus of the acoustic beams studied was typically approximately 0.5 s. PMID- 2527431 TI - [Late industrial damage: closed access for obtaining compensation?]. AB - Working site related health risks, in particular cancer as a model of industrial latency diseases, belong to the extensively studied "environmental diseases". As much as 14 classes of chemical substances causing cancer at different localization are classified in the occupational disease compensation law of the Federal Republic of Germany. Within the recent decades the number of carcinogens identified by experimental cancer research has been enormously increasing, whereas new data in occupational oncology stagnate. In particular, the disagreement in the "social partnership" regarding the originator principle with the consequence of the liability of employers to compensate occupational diseases can be considered as the socio-political background of this stagnation. Especially investigations on cancer related to the working site often fail due to data privacy. With regard to this problem, some actual cases are listed. The mandate of medical science to gain new knowledge in the field of work related diseases for a legal assessment, as determined in the RVO section 551, chapter 1 and 2, should be refused until a new balance of protective measures in occupational medicine and data privacy will be established. PMID- 2527430 TI - Coagulation and fibrinolysis during the normal menstrual cycle. AB - Thirteen healthy women (age 24-44 yrs) were studied during their menstrual cycle. Samples were taken 2-3 times weekly for six consecutive weeks. Plasma concentrations of oestradiol and progesterone were determined in each blood sample and only women found to be ovulatory were included. From the hormone data the cycles were divided in five phases (early follicular phase, late follicular phase, early luteal phase, late luteal phase and menstrual period). The samples for the coagulation and fibrinolysis assays as well as the venous occlusion (20 min) tests were drawn or performed between 8-9 a m after fasting for 8 hrs. The fibrinogen F VIII:C and AT III were assayed and did not show any variations through the study period. Neither were any differences found in platelet counts, platelet mean volumes or platelet function measured as platelet adhesion and plasma beta-thromboglobulin. The fibrinolytic activity after venous occlusion decreased slightly during the late luteal phase (phase 4) as compared with the other phases. Large individual differences were, however, seen and no statistically significant differences between the five different phases were found. The plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI-1) varied during the cycle but in most individuals within the normal range. In 7/13 women substantial fluctuations of the fibrinolytic activities during the cycle were seen. Four women had a significant fall of the fibrinolytic activity after venous occlusion during the late luteal phase (phase 4) and 3 others during the menstrual phase (phase 5). No co-variation between the fibrinolytic activities and PAI-1 was found. Multiple regression analysis showed a co-variation between fibrinolytic activities and progesterone. PMID- 2527432 TI - [Backache--risk of disability?]. AB - Low back pain and lumbo-ischialgia are symptoms of degeneration of the intervertebral disc with protrusion. The possible invalidity in these patients is difficult to assess. Several factors do influence the outcome of conservative and/or neurosurgical treatment: Some patients are treated as out-patients only instead of the necessary in-patient treatment. Only in case of a paresis or disturbances of the urine bladder function, operation must be done without pretreatment. The quality of the postoperative treatment decides on the later result! The clinical assessment of a patient is not possible without examination and intensive questions about the circumstances of daily life, holiday activities, hobbies and so on. Discrepancies between the result of examination and the answers to these questions give a signal to a very critical evaluation of this patient. PMID- 2527433 TI - [Exertion, spinal fracture, intervertebral disk displacement]. AB - If causes which cannot be clearly defined as traumatic, result in vertebral fractures or disc ruptures, the expert frequently finds himself confronted with considerable problems. He must carefully establish the relation between what is due to the trauma and what must be attributed to the pre-existing damage. This requires the pre-existing nox to be objectively cleared, especially with regard to osteoporosis. The diagnosis "osteoporosis" should be subjected to particularly careful investigation, especially if the patient is a male. X-ray photographs, taken at an early stage, are insufficient. As consequences for the patient might be heavy, intensive methods of examination are justified. Anamnesis, progress and effect must be critically weighted, exceptions from the rule must be founded on careful and logical reasoning. The above article deals with such an exception. PMID- 2527434 TI - A dose-response investigation on the level of resistance to pyrantel citrate in nodular worms of pigs. AB - This study was undertaken to determine the level of resistance against pyrantel citrate in strains of Oesophagostomum quadrispinulatum and Oesophagostomum dentatum which have previously been found resistant to this anthelmintic. Groups of pigs were artificially infected with batches of infective larvae which were previously found either susceptible or resistant to pyrantel citrate. After treatment with 1, 2 and 4 times the recommended dose (14 mg kg-1) of pyrantel citrate, the resistant O. quadrispinulatum population was reduced by 51.0, 76.2 and 86.1%, and O. dentatum by 41.2, 47.9 and 78.5%. The results indicated that O. dentatum was slightly more resistant (P less than 0.05) than O. quadrispinulatum to pyrantel citrate. Treatment of the susceptible worms with 1 and 2 times the recommended dose caused a reduction in worm numbers by 61.0 and 99.4%, respectively. PMID- 2527435 TI - Scanning electron microscopy of sarcoptic mange lesions in swine. AB - Scanning electron microscopy revealed that lesions of sarcoptic mange in swine, pass through 3 different stages. During the first 3 weeks of infestation, adult female mites tunnel into the epidermis. During the following 3 or 4 weeks, the surface openings of these tunnels become covered with keratinized epidermal crust which increases in thickness. After 7 weeks of infestation, the crust falls off, the tunnel openings become apparent again and most of the mites vacate these tunnels. PMID- 2527436 TI - The influence of host immunity on the epidemiology of trichostrongyle infections in cattle. AB - The acquisition of immunity to the important trichostrongyles of cattle is reviewed and the subsequent effect on the epidemiology of trichostrongylosis is discussed. Examples of factors which can delay or impair the development of immunity to these nematode infections are presented. These include the interactions with anthelmintic prophylactic programmes, nutrition, intercurrent infections, pregnancy and lactation. PMID- 2527437 TI - Protection of lambs against experimental pneumonic pasteurellosis by transfer of immune serum. AB - Passive protection of specific pathogen-free lambs against experimental pasteurellosis was achieved using antisera from conventionally reared sheep which were either convalescent from experimental pneumonia or inoculated with Pasteurella haemolytica A2 vaccines. The complete immune sera, or immunoglobulin rich fractions prepared from them, when administered separately or together provided 94-100% protection of recipients compared to control lambs. Antibodies to P. haemolytica in donor sera were quantified by anti-sodium salicylate extract (SSE) and anti-lipopolysaccharide (LPS) ELISA, bactericidal assay, cytotoxin neutralization and indirect haemagglutination. The anti-SSE ELISA titres correlated best with protective efficacy and could be used to measure antibody in recipient lambs immediately before challenge. The degree of protection was unaffected by prior infection with parainfluenza virus Type 3, suggesting that such exposure did not enhance exudation of circulating immunoglobulin into the respiratory tract. It was concluded that systemic humoral immunity alone can prevent pasteurellosis. PMID- 2527439 TI - Nucleotide sequence and expression of the small (S) RNA segment of Maguari bunyavirus. AB - The small (S) RNA segment of the Maguari bunyavirus genome has been cloned as cDNA and its nucleotide sequence determined. The nucleocapsid protein, N, (Mr 26K) and a nonstructural protein, NSs, (Mr 11K), are encoded in overlapping reading frames, similar to other bunyavirus S RNA segments. In addition, a third AUG-initiated open reading frame encoding a 9.3K protein was observed. All three polypeptides were translated in cell free systems programmed with RNA transcribed in vitro from the cDNA subcloned downstream of a bacteriophage T7 promoter. The effects on expression of subcloning parts of the cDNA and by site-specific mutagenesis are discussed in relation to the scanning model of initiation of translation. A recombinant baculovirus has been constructed to express the Maguari virus S segment gene products. The N protein was efficiently expressed in infected cells, and a significant amount was in a soluble form. We could not detect the synthesis of NSs nor the 9.3K protein, and the reasons for this are discussed. The 9.3K protein has not been found in Maguari virus-infected cells and so the question of its functional significance remains open. PMID- 2527438 TI - Heterogeneous malignant non Hodgkin's lymphomas as a causative disorder in lethal midline granuloma. AB - The present report describes the results of a combined morphological, enzyme- and immunohistochemical analysis of nine cases of malignant non Hodgkin's lymphomas (NHL) clinically presenting as lethal midline granuloma. In a previous report written before antibodies directed against B and T lymphocytes were available, a histiocytic origin of such neoplasms had been suggested. A panel of antibodies reactive with most B cells (L26, MB1, KiB3) and a majority of T cells (MT1, UCHL1) was applied on paraffin sections of formalin fixed tissues as well as antibodies directed against leukocyte common antigen (LCA), myeloid/histiocyte antigen (MAC 387), lysozyme, alpha-1-antitrypsin, alpha-1-antichymotrypsin, S-100 protein, prekeratin and immunoglobulin light chains. Enzyme histochemistry included tests for non-specific acid esterase, acid phosphatase, beta glucuronidase and chloroacetate esterase. As a result, five T, two B and two unclassified (malignant histiocytosis probable) NHL were identified, indicating distinct heterogeneity of NHL as causative disorders in lethal midline granuloma. PMID- 2527440 TI - Complementation of enteric adenovirus type 40 for lytic growth in tissue culture by E1B 55K function of adenovirus types 5 and 12. AB - The enteric adenovirus type 40 strain Dugan (Ad40) cannot be passaged in HeLa cells, but will grow in 293 cells, which express Ad5 E1 functions. To determine the reason for this limited host range, KB cell lines expressing Ad2 E1A, E1B, or E1A + E1B (L. E. Babiss, C. S. H. Young, P. B. Fisher, and H. S. Ginsberg, 1983, J. Virol. 46, 454-465) have been tested for their ability to support Ad40 replication. Only cell lines which supply E1B functions, but not those expressing E1A alone, are permissive for Ad40, suggesting that Ad40 may require some function supplied by E1B or induced in E1B-containing cells. In coinfection assays Ad40 complements Ad5 dl312 (delta E1A) but not Ad5 dl313 (delta E1B) and is itself complemented by dl312 but not by dl313. Mutants of Ad2 and Ad12 with lesions in E1B 55K or 19K protein have been used to further delineate the requirements for Ad40 growth in HeLa cells. For mutants lacking 55K function there is minimal complementation in either direction, whereas those lacking only the 19K product are able to complement Ad40. PMID- 2527441 TI - [The military medical aspects of rendering surgical care to earthquake victims]. PMID- 2527442 TI - [The organization of therapeutic care for the victims]. PMID- 2527443 TI - [Fidelity to duty]. PMID- 2527444 TI - [Soldiers of mercy]. PMID- 2527445 TI - [2 weeks in Spitak]. PMID- 2527447 TI - Low back pain care. PMID- 2527446 TI - [Antiherpetic activity of Soviet-made phosphonic acid derivatives and their combinations with interferon inducers in a model of ophthalmic herpes]. AB - A comparative analysis of the effectiveness of national phosphonic acid derivatives (FUK and FMK) and acyclic nucleoside, acycloguanosine (Acg), as well as interferon (INF) inducers, lafarin and ridostin, was carried out on the model of herpetic conjunctivitis in rabbits and guinea pigs. Upon therapeutic prophylactic administration, lafarin reduced the intensity of eye symptoms 2-fold as compared with the controls (infected but untreated guinea-pigs). In rabbits with herpetic conjunctivitis, the therapeutic schedule of the use of FMK (FUK) and Acg shortened the duration of the disease by 7 and 11 days, respectively, as compared with the control. The combined use of chemical drugs and INF inducers, lafarin or ridostin, reduced the intensity of the disease manifestations 3-fold and shortened the duration of the disease by 8-11 days. The survival rate was 80% 100%. Use of the combination of the two chemical drugs gave an additive effect. The synergistic effect was observed with FMK used in combination with lafarin. PMID- 2527448 TI - [The significance of a staged diagnostic-therapeutic program for the disease course in patients following unstable angina pectoris during a follow-up period of 3 1/2 years]. AB - Among a group of 160 patients (146 men and 14 women) who had been admitted to our hospital under the picture of an unstable angina pectoris and whom we treated according a standardized diagnostic-therapeutic step programme 8.7% of the patients died of a cardiovascular disease during a period of 3 1/2 years. In 8% of our patients an acute myocardial infarction occurred during the period of observation. A diagnostic-therapeutic step programme was the basis for a differential therapy adapted to the individual course of the disease. We think that this therapy concept first of all corresponds to the individual dynamics of the course of the disease of patients with coronary heart disease. PMID- 2527449 TI - [Exacerbation of rosacea in HIV infection]. AB - A 38-year-old male homosexual patient, who had suffered from hepatopathy for many years and from rosacea since 15 years, showed pronounced exacerbation of the rosacea following HIV infection. PMID- 2527450 TI - [Specific IgE antibodies to Pityrosporum orbiculare in patients with atopic dermatitis]. AB - By means of RAST investigations, we detected specific IgE antibodies against Pityrosporon orbiculare in the plasma of patients with atopic dermatitis. The patients suffering from the so-called head and neck dermatitis showed an average specific IgE antibody titer of RAST class 3, whereas in those with predominant involvement of the extremities we found an average antibody titer of RAST class 1. PMID- 2527451 TI - [Type I allergy to rubber gloves containing latex]. AB - We report on a 23-year-old female patient showing anaphylactoid mucosal reactions when handling Latex rubber gloves. Usually, type I intolerance against rubber gloves is due to allergy against Latex mediated by IgE. In addition, we discuss some general allergologic problems regarding the handling of rubber gloves. PMID- 2527453 TI - [Cytochemical and immunological indices of patients with occupational dermatoses of chemical etiology]. AB - A total of 161 male patients, aged 18 to 56, suffering from occupational dermatitis (n = 81) and eczemas (n = 80), have been examined with the use of cytochemical and immunological methods in an outpatient rehabilitation centre in the town of Mingechaur, the Azerbaijan SSR. The patients have been engaged in the manufacture of fiber glass, insulation material, and rubber articles; the dermatoses they have developed have been due to exposure to allergic and irritating components of nonconsolidated synthetic polymers and chemical ingredients of industrial rubber production. The findings evidence a significant increase of the neutrophil metabolic and functional activities in dermatitis patients and a rise of the lymphocyte activities in eczema patients. A complex of methods for the studies of leukocyte function and of changes in the immunity status, both on the cellular and subcellular levels (sensitization, inflammation, toxicity) is recommended for examinations of such patient populations. PMID- 2527452 TI - [Granulomatous rosacea associated with ulcerative colitis: 2 case reports]. AB - Inflammatory gastrointestinal disorders (ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease) are often associated with cutaneous disorders, which occasionally may even precede the internal symptoms. Aside from the specific skin diseases, such as erythema nodosum or pyoderma gangraenosum, a number of unspecific skin eruptions may be found in both disorders. Here we report on 2 cases of ulcerative colitis associated with granulomatous rosacea. PMID- 2527454 TI - A survey on the occurrence of Fusarium mycotoxins in Bavarian cereals from the 1987 harvest. AB - Bavarian cereals and wheat flour from the 1987 harvest were analysed for nivalenol (NIV) and deoxynivalenol (DON) using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and for T-2 toxin and zearalenone (ZEA) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The study included 190 field samples of wheat, barley, rye and oat with visibly damaged ears, 45 samples of wheat intended for feed production and two series of wheat flour (type 550) and whole wheat flour collected in October 1987 and June 1988. The field samples examined showed a high DON contamination of wheat (87%) with an average of 3.96 mg/kg and a maximum of 43.8 mg/kg. Mean levels between 0.33 mg/kg and 0.27 mg/kg DON could be detected in barley, rye and oat. Of the wheat samples, 58% contained ZEA with a maximum of 1.560 mg/kg. The highest levels of ZEA were detected in samples which also showed high concentrations of DON. The NIV and T-2 toxin levels were comparatively low. Thirty percent of the samples showed NIV concentrations between 0.04 mg/kg and 0.29 mg/kg and 38% contained between 0.005 and 0.60 mg/kg of T-2. In the wheat samples for feed production, only DON was detected with an average of 0.190 mg/kg and a maximum of 0.75 mg/kg. The highest DON levels (0.58 mg/kg) from October 1987 were found in the wheat flour samples which were lower than the highest DON concentration (3.24 mg/kg) detected in the samples collected during June 1988. This fact was probably due to a substantial amount of non-contaminated wheat from 1986. The toxin concentrations in the whole wheat flour were not higher than in the type 550 flour.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527455 TI - [Preventive and follow-up care in physically and mentally handicapped]. PMID- 2527456 TI - [Studies on the differentiation of the retina receptor cell of toad (Bufo raddei Strauch)]. AB - The development of the retinal receptor cell in the young tadpoles (Bufo raddei Strauch), from the stage 20 to the stage 25, was studied by TEM and immunohistochemical method. The morphological differentiation of the photoreceptor cell may be described as follows. The time and the degree of differentiation of the cells in the tadpole retina is asynchronous between central (posterior pole) and peripheral parts of the tadpole retina, namely, they are earlier and higher in the central than in the peripheral. The cells of the outer nuclear layer are undifferentiated at the stage 20. The cells in the posterior part of the retina elongate at the beginning of the stage 21 (Plate I, Fig. 1). This is the first sign of differentiation in the photoreceptor cell. A small hillock-like process forms the inner segment at the scleral pole of the receptor cell. The inner segment is rich in mitochondria, rough-surfaced cytomembrane, free ribosomes, and vesicles. One or two large lipid droplets are also found in the inner segment (Plate I Fig. 2-3). Later on, the connecting structure develops at the tip of the inner segment. The newly formed filaments and the plasma membrane form the outer segment. Its membrane forms some evaginations oriented perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the receptor cell. In this way, disks of the outer segment are formed (Plate I Fig. 4-5). The length of the outer segment gradually increases with the number of disks increasing at the base. At the same time, an axon process of receptor cell, extending vitreal, develops synapses with dendrites of the bipolar cell in the outer plexiform layer. At the beginning (the stage 22), the synaptic structure is an immature form that lacks synaptic ribbons and vesicles (Plate II Fig. 8). Later on, ribbons and vesicles are observed in the further developed synaptic structure (Plate II Fig. 9). The toad rhodopsin was prepared by a method of Dewey et al. (1969) and Papermaster & Dreyer (1974) with slight modification. A specific immune serum against the toad rhodopsin was produced in rabbits. Using the indirect Coon's antibody technique, the localization of the rhodopsin antibody and the time when the antibody was seen in the retina of the early developing tadpoles was traced.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2527457 TI - Fine structure of guinea pig vestibular kinocilium. AB - The fine structure of the utricular kinocilium of the guinea pig was examined with transmission electron microscopy after treatment with tannic acid to enhance resolution of internal morphology. The utricular kinocilium was devoid of inner dynein arms and a central pair of microtubules, while a set of outer dynein arms and radial spokes was found. This supports the hypothesis that the vestibular kinocilium is non-motile. Internal electron-dense particles at the attachment sites of the stereo-kinociliar bonds were situated in the immediate periphery of the outer dynein arms, although no visible connection existed between these structures. Findings obtained in the present study seem to give insight on the mechanism of mechanosensory transduction in the vestibular sensory cells. PMID- 2527458 TI - Plasma concentrations of atrial natriuretic peptide in children with persistent hypertension. AB - Plasma concentrations of human atrial natriuretic peptide (hANP) were determined in children with persistent hypertension and in age-matched normotensive controls. We studied 40 children 6-7 years of age (Group A), and 74 children 13 14 years of age (Group B). There was no significant difference in plasma hANP concentration between hypertensives and normotensives in group A. In group B, the plasma hANP concentration in hypertensives (86.5 +/- 44.9 pg/ml: mean +/- SD) was significantly higher than in normotensives (58.8 +/- 40.4 pg/ml) (p less than 0.01). In group B, 24-hour urinary excretion of sodium and fractional excretion of sodium were not significantly different between hypertensives and normotensives. The plasma hANP correlated significantly with the fractional excretion of sodium (p less than 0.05) and the 24-hour urinary excretion of sodium (p less than 0.01) in normotensives. No such correlation was evident in the case of the hypertensives. The pathogenesis of increased plasma hANP concentration in older children with persistent hypertension remains to be investigated. In regard to the effects of hANP on renal function, hANP may contribute to the regulation of sodium handling in normotensive adolescents, whereas other regulatory mechanisms need to be considered in the case of hypertensives. PMID- 2527459 TI - Resorption is not essential for the stimulation of bone growth by hPTH-(1-34) in rats in vivo. AB - Chronic low doses of hPTH-(1-34) stimulate bone growth in rats in vivo. The objective of these studies was to determine if the anabolic effect of hPTH-(1-34) on rat bone in vivo is dependent on an initial stimulation of resorption by blocking resorption with either salmon calcitonin (CT) or dichloromethylene diphosphonate (Cl2MDP). Male Sprague-Dawley rats, 70-100 g, were treated with daily subcutaneous (SC) injections of vehicle (V) or hPTH-(1-34), 8 micrograms per 100 g (PTH), for 12 days. In experiment 1, rats were given CT for 3 (CT3) or 12 (CT12) days, either alone or in combination with hPTH-(1-34) (CT3-PTH and CT12 PTH) or vehicle for 12 days. In experiment 2, rats were pretreated for 4 days with Cl2MDP or its vehicle before starting the daily PTH or vehicle injections. Rats were then killed. Sera, femora, tibiae, and kidneys were removed for chemical and histomorphometric analyses. PTH, PTH-CT3, and PTH-CT12 rats showed significant increases in total bone calcium (18-23%), dry weight (DW, 13-25%), and bone-forming surfaces compared with their respective controls. Eroded (resorption) surfaces were comparable between the groups. Although weight gain and serum calcium were normal in rats treated for 3 days with CT, rats treated for 12 days with CT gained 14% less weight than controls and were hypophosphatemic, with reduced serum calcium and urea nitrogen. Total bone mass increased both in Cl2MDP rats (Ca 21%, DW 2%), where resorption was presumably blocked, and in PTH rats (Ca 31%, DW 19%). The increase in bone mass was greater in PTH-Cl2MDP rats (Ca 48%, DW 29%) than in rats treated with Cl2MDP alone, suggesting that although Cl2MDP blocked resorption, the anabolic response to PTH was not altered. As neither short-term treatment with CT nor Cl2MDP blocked the anabolic response of bone to hPTH-(1-34), this response does not appear to depend on the early stimulation of resorption. PMID- 2527460 TI - Laser catheter thermal angioplasty: technique and early results in 34 patients. AB - The laser catheter is a nylon vascular catheter with a metal tip that has an end hole as well as side holes. The metal tip is heated by laser energy delivered through an optical fiber embedded in the catheter wall. The catheter may be advanced over a guidewire for use as an adjunct to balloon angioplasty or for use in smaller vessels as the exclusive method of recanalization. We used the catheter to treat 34 patients with 54 discrete vascular lesions in 35 extremities. Twenty patients were treated for clinically significant claudication and 14 for ischemic changes. Laser catheter-assisted balloon angioplasty was used to treat six iliac artery occlusions, two iliac artery stenoses, 10 superficial femoral artery occlusions, 12 superficial femoral stenoses, four popliteal artery occlusions, and three popliteal stenoses. Initial technical and clinical success in these patients, with follow-up periods of 3-6 months, was equivalent to the results of previous reports of laser probe-assisted balloon angioplasty. In 11 patients, 15 of 17 popliteal or tibial-peroneal lesions were treated with the laser catheter without subsequent balloon angioplasty. The treatment was successful in eight of these patients, with follow-ups for up to 6 months. Our results suggest that the laser catheter is a useful device for the treatment of vascular stenosis or occlusion when used either as an adjunct to balloon angioplasty or in smaller vessels as the exclusive method for angioplasty. PMID- 2527462 TI - The efficacy of fetal sonographic biometry in Down syndrome screening. AB - Sonographic biometry has been proposed as a second-trimester Down syndrome screening modality. Approaches have relied on the apparent "shortened" femur length of fetuses with Down syndrome. Unfortunately, significant intercenter variation has been reported in the magnitude of this femur length reduction. In an effort to overcome many of these potential biases and better estimate the magnitude of femur length shortening in fetuses with Down syndrome, a retrospective review of femur length differences between 16 Down syndrome and 194 control fetuses was carried out. All scans were performed by one examiner who used the same equipment and measurement technique. A significant reduction in the observed to expected femur length ratio for a given biparietal diameter was identified in the Down versus control fetuses (0.9574 95% confidence interval 0.9197, 0.9952 versus 0.9999 95% confidence interval 0.9913, 1.0086) (p less than 0.008). However, the magnitude of this reduction was not sufficient to permit the use of this sonographic approach as an isolated marker for fetal Down syndrome. PMID- 2527463 TI - Plasma atrial natriuretic peptide in human fetus: response to intravascular blood transfusion. AB - To investigate whether atrial natriuretic peptide is present in the human fetal circulation and changes in response to fetal blood volume expansion, the concentration of plasma atrial natriuretic peptide was measured by radioimmunoassay in samples obtained by cordocentesis. Twenty-four patients referred for intravascular blood transfusion because of red cell isoimmunization at 21 to 35 weeks' gestation were studied. Plasma atrial natriuretic peptide concentrations in fetal blood (median, 8.0 pmol/L; range, 1 to 27.3) were significantly higher than those of 25 young 18- to 32-year-old adult control subjects (median, 4.5 pmol/L; range, 1 to 11.3, p less than 0.002 but similar to those found in the umbilical cord blood of 10 normal neonates immediately after delivery (median, 7.35 pmol/L; range, 2.7 to 15.5). In seven patients in whom fetal and maternal plasma atrial natriuretic peptide was measured simultaneously, all fetal concentrations were higher (p less than 0.01). The concentration of fetal atrial natriuretic peptide before and immediately after blood transfusion (n = 12) rose significantly (p less than 0.05), and the rise correlated positively with the transfusion rate (p less than 0.05). We conclude that atrial natriuretic peptide is present in plasma of the human fetus as early as 21 weeks' gestation and that its concentration increases promptly in response to vascular volume expansion. These findings suggest that atrial natriuretic peptide may play a role in fetal volume homeostasis. PMID- 2527461 TI - Estimation of fertility and fitness in Huntington disease in New England. AB - The advent of presymptomatic and prenatal testing in Huntington disease (HD) may change the reproductive behavior of persons at risk for HD. In order to assess future change, an analysis of fertility and reproductive fitness was carried out on 999 affected and 2,253 unaffected offspring from 235 New England families. Ascertainment biases observed for persons born before 1910 and after 1929 reduced the sample to 250 HD cases and 201 unaffected sib controls born between 1910 and 1929. No increase in reproductive rate was found in HD-affected men compared to male control sibs. A small increase in fertility averaging 0.5 child was seen in HD-affected females compared to unaffected females, but this difference was not significant. The increase in mean number of children for HD females is accounted for in part by a small number of affected women who had very large families. No evidence was found to suggest that any increase in reproductive rate for affected persons was related to offspring being born after HD onset. The fitness of both HD-affected and unaffected females was not significantly different from that of the general population of Massachusetts. PMID- 2527464 TI - Serial human chorionic gonadotropin determinations by fluoroimmunoassay for differentiation between intrauterine and ectopic gestation. AB - A new means for differentiation between ectopic and early intrauterine pregnancy- the human chorionic gonadotropin score--is described. The score relates the rate of serum hCG rise per day to the initial human chorionic gonadotropin level. The positive predictive value for ectopic pregnancy was 94.7%, based on human chorionic gonadotropin scores from 41 women with increasing human chorionic gonadotropin levels in the range of 10 to 4000 IU/L. The method may be useful for identification of ectopic pregnancy in a category of women in whom ultrasonography is of limited diagnostic value. PMID- 2527465 TI - The frequency and management of uterine perforations during first-trimester abortions. AB - The frequency and management of uterine perforation during first-trimester abortions remain a matter of continuing debate among gynecologists. The rate of uterine perforations was 1.3/1000 procedures (eight cases) in 6408 women undergoing first-trimester abortions at our clinic. We also performed 706 first trimester abortions at the time of laparoscopic sterilization. Two perforations (2.8/1000 procedures) were reported before laparoscopy. Twelve (15.6/1000 procedures) unsuspected perforations were discovered during direct laparoscopic visualization. This represents a 19.8/1000 procedure rate of perforation (14 cases). All 22 patients with perforations were managed conservatively, and no immediate or late complications were noted. Our data suggest that the true incidence of uterine perforations is significantly underestimated and serious complications caused by perforations are rare. Conservative therapy is recommended rather than early surgical intervention. PMID- 2527466 TI - Nerve entrapment after Pfannenstiel incision. PMID- 2527468 TI - Short-term effect of aldosterone on NEM-sensitive ATPase in rat collecting tubule. AB - Because previous studies indicated that in the collecting tubule, N ethylmaleimide (NEM)-sensitive ATPase, the biochemical equivalent of the proton pump, is controlled by mineralocorticoids in the long term, the present study was designed to investigate whether such control also exists in the short term. Therefore we investigated the in vivo and in vitro effects of aldosterone on the enzyme activity in cortical and outer medullary collecting tubules (CCT and MCT, respectively) from adrenalectomized rats. Administration of aldosterone (10 micrograms/kg body wt) markedly stimulated NEM-sensitive ATPase activity in the CCT and MCT within 3 h. Similarly, incubating CCT or MCT for 3 h in the presence of 10(-8) M aldosterone enhanced NEM-sensitive ATPase activity up to values similar to those previously measured in the corresponding nephron segments of normal rats. In vitro stimulation of NEM-sensitive ATPase was dose dependent in regard to aldosterone (apparent affinity constant approximately 10(-9) M), appeared after a 30-min lag period, and reached its maximum after 2-2.5 h. Finally, actinomycin D and cycloheximide totally abolished the in vitro action of aldosterone, demonstrating the involvement of protein synthesis in this process. PMID- 2527467 TI - The effectiveness of three group intervention strategies to support family caregivers. AB - Participants in two types of professionally-led groups and one peer-led group reported significant changes in personal problems related to caregiving as compared to controls. No significant changes were found on measures of psychological status and caregiving burden. PMID- 2527469 TI - The role of thromboxane in two-kidney, one-clip Goldblatt hypertension in rats. AB - Impaired contralateral kidney (CLK) function is important in the maintenance of hypertension in the two-kidney, one-clip (2K, 1C) Goldblatt rat model. Since glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is influenced by the products of arachidonic acid metabolism, we investigated the potential role of eicosanoids as mediators of impaired CLK pressure-volume regulation. At 4 wk following right renal artery clipping, GFR of hypertensive rats was significantly reduced. This decrease was due to the fixed reduction in GFR of the clipped kidney and failure of the CLK to increase its GFR. Thromboxane (Tx) production by isolated perfused CLK was significantly elevated, whereas prostacyclin production remained unchanged. Furthermore, CLK GFR was inversely proportional to Tx production. Treatment of 4 wk hypertensive animals with either the Tx synthase inhibitor UK-38,485 or the Tx receptor antagonist GR 32191 produced a significant increase in CLK GFR. In addition, treatment with either the Tx synthase inhibitor or the Tx receptor antagonist significantly reduced systemic blood pressure. Thus, in this 2K, 1C model of hypertension, increased renal Tx production prevents functional hypertrophy of the contralateral kidney. As a result, CLK pressure-volume regulation is impaired and systemic hypertension is maintained. Furthermore, Tx antagonists restore CLK function and acutely lower systemic blood pressure. Therefore, increased renal Tx production by the CLK appears to be an important mediator of hypertension in the 2K, 1C model. PMID- 2527470 TI - Permissive role of dopamine in renal action of ANP in volume-expanded rats. AB - A possible role of dopamine in the diuretic and natriuretic action of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) was evaluated in the rat. ANP was infused into the left renal artery of anesthetized rats whose kidneys were denervated. ANP both at 12 and 1.2 pmol/h caused immediate ipsilateral increases in urine volume (V), urine Na excretion (UNaV), and fractional excretion of Na (FENa). Ipsilateral glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and renal plasma flow (RPF) increased with 12 pmol/h ANP but not with 1.2 pmol/h ANP. Intravenous infusion of haloperidol, Sch 23390, or carbidopa markedly attenuated the increase in V, UNaV, and FENa with 12 pmol/h ANP and completely abolished the increases in GFR and RPF. Haloperidol, Sch-23390, and carbidopa also completely abolished the renal effects of 1.2 pmol/h ANP. In the presence of carbidopa, a small dose of dopamine infused into the systemic circulation, which by itself has no effects on blood pressure, V, GFR, RPF, and UNaV, restored the diuretic and natriuretic effects of ANP. In addition, an increase in urinary guanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate by ANP was not affected by either haloperidol or carbidopa. These data indicate that dopamine may be necessary, as a permissive agent, for the renal effects of ANP to manifest and that the effects of dopamine may be independent of ANP-stimulated guanylate cyclase activation. PMID- 2527471 TI - Left ventricular systolic resistance in rats with hypertension and hypertrophy. AB - Traditional indexes of ventricular performance often fail to identify differences between the normal and hypertrophied ventricle. This may not be the case for load independent mechanical properties, elastance, and resistance. Accordingly, we derived these properties of the intact left ventricle (LV) in 25-wk-old male spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and normotensive Wistar-Kyoto controls (WKY) using in-situ and isolated hearts. We found that 1) pump performance was similar in SHR and WKY, both at base line and after dextran; 2) the peak systolic elastance (Emax) was higher and theoretical maximum flow (Qmax, inverse of ventricular resistance) was lower in SHR; (3) slopes of peak isovolumetric pressure-volume and stress-strain relations were significantly higher in SHR; and 4) although end-diastolic pressure-volume relation for SHR was shifted to the right, there was no difference in end-diastolic stress-strain relations. Thus elastance in hypertrophied LV is augmented due to both an increase in muscle mass and the force-generating capacity of the myocardium. Furthermore, we propose that the decrease in Qmax seen in SHR reflects a change in certain velocity-dependent properties of the myocardium, whereas the preservation of pump performance is a result of the opposing effects of increased Emax and decreased Qmax. These observations underscore the importance of quantifying systolic resistance, together with elastance, for a better assessment of the LV as a mechanical pump. PMID- 2527472 TI - Mechanism mediating hypotensive effect of ANF in sodium-depleted dogs. AB - Previous studies have indicated that suppression of renin release and antagonism of the vasoconstrictor actions of angiotensin II (ANG II) may be important mechanisms whereby atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) decreases arterial pressure (AP). The objective of this study was to determine the importance of renin suppression and ANG II antagonism in mediating the hypotensive effects of ANF in Na-depleted, high-renin dogs. Infusion of ANF (300 ng.kg-1.min-1) for 45 min in Na-depleted dogs decreased plasma renin activity (PRA) from 7.5 +/- 2.3 to 3.1 +/ 1.1 ng ANG I.ml-1.h-1. Associated with this fall in PRA was a significant reduction in AP and total peripheral resistance (TPR). Although cardiac output (CO) tended to fall, statistically significant reductions in CO (2.11 +/- 0.19 vs. 1.99 +/- 0.10 l/min) did not occur. In contrast to these findings, infusion of ANF (300 ng.kg-1.min-1) in Na-depleted dogs with fixed circulating levels of ANG II had no significant effect on AP or TPR. Results from this study suggest that renin suppression may be an important mechanism whereby ANF reduces AP in Na depleted dogs. The results also suggest that antagonism of the vasoconstrictor actions of ANG II is not a potent mechanism whereby ANF decreases AP. PMID- 2527473 TI - Effects of propranolol and pindolol on plasma ANP levels in humans at rest and during exercise. AB - In attempt to elucidate whether the beta-adrenoceptor is involved in the control of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) secretion, plasma immunoreactive ANP level was measured at rest, in recumbent and upright positions, and during graded maximal ergocycle exercise in nine healthy male subjects (23 +/- 0.5 years of age) treated for 3 days with nonselective beta-blockers propranolol (150 mg/day) or pindolol (15 mg/day) or with placebo. The effects of beta-blockers, which differ by their hemodynamic actions at rest because of the intrinsic sympathomimetic activity of pindolol, were compared. Maximal O2 consumption (VO2max) during beta-blockade was not significantly different from the placebo value. Resting heart rate was not affected by pindolol treatment but was decreased with propranolol (-10 beats/min). Both beta-blockers caused a reduction in heart rate at all the exercise intensities. Mean blood pressure was not affected by beta-blockade at rest but was significantly reduced during exercise. During placebo treatment, plasma ANP increased in response to exercise intensities greater than 65% of VO2max. At 100% VO2max plasma ANP was nearly doubled (101.5 +/- 14 pg/ml) compared with the basal value in upright position (56.6 +/- 15 pg/ml). beta-Blockade caused a marked elevation in plasma ANP at all the levels of activity. Despite different hemodynamic responses to pindolol and propranolol, both beta-blockers produced similar increases in the basal level of plasma ANP. These rises were maintained in the course of exercise tests, and no significant difference was found between propranolol and pindolol. We conclude that beta-adrenoceptor mechanisms are not directly responsible for tonic and exercise-induced ANP secretion in humans.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527474 TI - Regulation of glycolytic enzymes during anoxia in the turtle Pseudemys scripta. AB - The glycolytic enzymes glycogen phosphorylase, phosphofructokinase (PFK), and pyruvate kinase (PK) were assessed in liver, heart, red muscle, and white muscle of aerobic and 5-h anoxic turtles (Pseudemys scripta) for changes in total activity and kinetic parameters. Anoxia induced statistically significant changes in these glycolytic enzymes in each of the four organs assayed. Compared with normoxic controls, anoxic liver showed a 3.3-fold increase in glycogen phosphorylase activity, a 1.5-fold increase in the PFK I50 value for citrate (concentration that inhibits initial activity by 50%), a 1.5-fold increase in the PFK Michaelis constant (Km) value for fructose 6-phosphate (P), and an increased maximal activity of PK. Anoxic heart muscle showed a 2.6-fold decrease in glycogen phosphorylase activity and, for PFK, a 1.7-fold decrease in the Km value for ATP and a twofold increase in the I50 value for citrate. In anoxic white muscle, PFK showed a fivefold lower Km value for fructose-6-P and a threefold lower activator concentration producing half-maximal activation (A50) for potassium phosphate than the aerobic enzyme form. Changes in anoxic white muscle PK included a twofold increase in the Km value for ADP and a 1.7-fold decrease in the I50 value for alanine. In red muscle, anoxia affected only the Km value for ATP, which was 50% higher than the value for the aerobic enzyme form. Fructose 2,6-diphosphate (P2) levels also decreased in heart muscle and increased in red and white muscle during anoxia.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527475 TI - Effects of converting-enzyme inhibitor on hemodynamic actions of ANP in renal hypertensive rats. AB - In the present study, we have evaluated whether the hemodynamic effects of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) infusion in two-kidney, one-clip (2K, 1C) hypertensive rats are mediated by inhibition of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). Hemodynamic determinations were performed by thermodilution in conscious, chronically instrumented animals. ANP (1.5 micrograms.kg-1.min-1) and converting enzyme (CE) inhibitor captopril (1 mg/kg plus 1 mg.kg-1.h-1), produced a similar fall of blood pressure through different hemodynamic mechanisms. ANP induced hypotension by decreasing cardiac index (CI; from 337.3 +/- 24.9 to 255.1 +/- 21.3 ml.min-1.kg-1, P less than 0.001), whereas a fall in total peripheral resistance (TPR) was observed during CE inhibition (from 0.568 +/- 0.02 to 0.488 +/- 0.02 mmHg.min.ml-1.kg, P less than 0.05). In addition, the ANP-induced decrease in CI was not significantly modified by previous CE inhibition. Furthermore, the decrease in TPR induced by CE inhibition did not change when CE inhibitor was administered during ANP treatment. The results of the present study indicate that the acute hemodynamic responses to ANP in 2K, 1C hypertensive rats are not mediated through antagonism of the vasoconstrictor actions of the RAS. PMID- 2527476 TI - Natriuretic response to hypervolemia is absent in rats with papillary necrosis. AB - The renal responses to acute expansion of the blood volume (20%), acute saline loading (5% body wt), or administration of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) were investigated in rats 7-10 days after inducing experimental renal papillary necrosis by the injection of bromoethylamine hydrobromide. In normal rats, urinary Na output (UNaV) increased from 1 +/- 0.4 to 16.6 +/- 1.7 mumol/min. In rats with papillary necrosis, UNaV only increased from 1.1 +/- 0.2 to 2.5 +/- 0.5 mumol/min. In contrast, the natriuretic responses to saline loading in normal rats (from 1.7 +/- 0.2 to 21.6 +/- 2.4 mumol/min) and to the infusion of ANP (from 0.8 +/- 0.1 to 7.6 +/- 0.8 mumol/min) were not significantly attenuated in rats with papillary necrosis. The absence of a natriuretic response to hypervolemia in rats with papillary necrosis was not a result of failure to secrete ANP, because plasma levels of immunoreactive ANP increased three- to four fold in rats with papillary necrosis and in untreated rats. It is concluded that the mechanisms mediating the natriuretic and diuretic responses to acute expansion of the blood volume mainly involve alterations in inner medullary function. In contrast, natriuretic responses to saline loading and pharmacological doses of ANP are apparently mediated by more superficial cortical nephrons. PMID- 2527477 TI - [Our experience in the in vitro fertilization of human ovocytes]. AB - The authors describe the international experience in vitro fertilization. The programme, realized in the People's Republic of Bulgaria, is divided into three periods: First period--taking eggs by laparoscopy; Second period--during which eggs have been taken by laparoscopy as well as transvaginally by ultrasound, when two pregnancies have been successfully realized; Third period--again eggs are taken only by laparoscopy as 1.46 eggs are obtained on the average per a patient. The authors describe the difficulties and problems, which stand before them for solving. Taking into consideration their own and foreign experience, the authors think that the age of women, individual stimulation, monitoring and timely performance of the operation for taking eggs are of special significance. PMID- 2527478 TI - The adductor mandibulae muscle in teleost fish with protrusible or non protrusible jaws: a histochemical and immunohistochemical study. AB - A study was made of the morphology and fibre type composition of the adductor mandibulae (AM) muscle in Teleosts with very protrusible (carp), moderately protrusible (cod) and non-protrusible (trout and cat-fish) jaws. In contrast to the trout and cat-fish, in which the AM is formed by only 2 components (mandibular and mental), in the carp and cod there is a third portion (maxillary) which is more or less developed in relation to the extent of jaw protrusion. Fibre types were identified by means of histochemical staining for succinate dehydrogenase and myosin ATPase activities, and by immunohistochemistry with anti sera specific for fish fast and slow myosins. In all the species AM is composed principally of white (fast) fibres, with a smaller proportion of red (slow) fibres. The red fibres, which appear in the deep layers only of the muscle are not found in all of the components, and in the different species are not always present in the same parts. In those parts of the AM which are mixed, a transition zone lies between the red and white areas, and is usually composed of a third, or intermediate, type of fibre with histochemical and immunohistochemical properties similar to those of the pink zone of lateral muscle. The anatomical characteristics and different fibre type compositions of the various components forming the AM are discussed in relation to the extent of jaw protrusion and the relevant physiological data concerning other movements in which this muscle participants. PMID- 2527479 TI - Pituitary-adrenal stress response in the absence of brain-pituitary connections. AB - To examine whether an acute pituitary-adrenal response to stress may occur in vivo in the absence of hypothalamic-pituitary connections, we measured plasma beta-endorphin (beta-EP) and corticosterone (C) in rats after acute thermal injury. beta-EP rose significantly after thermal injury in normal rats and rats bearing pituitary-to-kidney autotransplants but not in animals with pituitary aspiration without reimplantation. Corticosterone responses paralleled beta-EP but were significant only in normal controls. Propranolol pretreatment did not reduce postburn beta-EP and C rises in autotransplanted animals. Therefore, since circulating factors contribute in vivo to pituitary-adrenal responses, the widespread practice of using "stress hormone" responses to quantitate perioperative stress or pain may in some circumstances be flawed. PMID- 2527480 TI - Thoracic outlet syndromes--application of microcirculation techniques and clinical review. AB - The thoracic outlet syndromes of the upper extremities consist of many disorders. The most important two are the costoclavicular syndrome (compression of neurovascular structures between the clavicle and the first rib) and the scalenus anticus syndrome (compression of these structures within the scalene triangle). Congenital abnormalities of the clavicle, congenital small thoracic outlet, high first rib, cervical ribs of all configurations, pectoralis minor and pectoralis major syndromes, and others may occur. The costoclavicular syndrome and scalenus anticus syndrome have been considered the most prevalent compression syndromes and are amenable to surgical or medical treatment. Quantitative measurements of the microcirculation of the fingertip were examined with the shoulders and head in various positions to provide quantitative information relative to the costoclavicular and scalenus anticus syndromes. A laser instrument was ideal for this purpose, for results were quantitative and no counterpressure was applied during the measurement. The technic applied was highly successful in separating quantitatively the normal individuals from those with either costoclavicular syndrome or scalenus anticus syndrome. PMID- 2527481 TI - Critical and controlled tests of activity of a macrocyclic lactone (compound F28249-alpha) against natural infections in internal parasites of equids. AB - Thirteen critical tests (n = 11 horses and 2 ponies) and 4 controlled tests (n = 4 donkeys and 6 horses) were performed to evaluate the activity of the experimental macrocyclic lactone compound F28249-alpha against internal parasites of equids. In the critical tests, activity was determined mainly against the large parasites, but 1 critical test also included benzimidazole-resistant small strongyles. In the controlled tests, evaluation of drug activity included large parasites and stomach worms in all 4 tests, and lungworms in 2 tests. The period between treatment and euthanasia was 6 to 9 days for the critical tests and 14, 17, or 52 days for the controlled tests. The compound was administered by stomach tube at dose rates of 1, 2, 3, 3.5, or 4 mg/kg of body weight. In the critical tests, removal at all 5 dose rates was 100% for Gasterophilus nasalis (2nd and 3rd instars), Parascaris equorum (mature), Strongylus vulgaris, and Strongulus edentatus from the gastrointestinal tract. For Gasterophilus intestinalis in the stomach, mean removals of 2nd instars were 88% at the rate of 2 mg/kg and 93% to 100% at rates greater than or equal to 3 mg/kg. For 3rd instars, mean removals were 7% at 1 mg/kg, 77% at 2 mg/kg, 90% at 3 mg/kg, and 98% at 3.5 mg/kg. Discharge of G intestinalis in feces was typically a slow, prolonged process and probably higher removal values, especially at lower dose rates, would have attended a longer interval after treatment before necropsy examination.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527482 TI - Unattenuated structural and biochemical alterations in the rat lung during functional adaptation to ozone. AB - Acute ozone (O3) exposure in humans produces changes in pulmonary function that attenuate with repeated exposure. This phenomenon, termed adaptation, has been produced in unanesthetized rats. Rats exposed to O3 (0, 0.35, 0.5, or 1.0 ppm) for 2.25 h for 5 consecutive days showed an increased frequency of breathing and a decreased tidal volume on Days 1 and 2 of exposure at all O3 concentrations. However, by Day 5 these breathing responses to O3 were diminished in rats exposed to 0.35 and 0.5 ppm, but not in rats exposed to 1.0 ppm. In addition, a flow limitation in smaller airways was observed after the second day of exposure to 0.5 ppm O3 that initially attenuated and then disappeared by the fifth day of exposure. In contrast to these findings, a light microscopic examination of fixed lung tissue sections from rats exposed to 0.5 ppm indicated a 5-day progressive pattern of epithelial damage and inflammation in the terminal bronchiolar region. A sustained 37% increase in lavageable protein was also observed over the course of the 5-day exposure regimen to 0.5 ppm. Lung glutathione increased initially, but it was within the control range on Days 4 and 5. Lung ascorbate was significantly elevated above control levels on Days 3 and 5. These data suggest that attenuation of the pulmonary function response to O3 occurs in laboratory rats with repeated exposure while biochemical and morphologic aspects of the tissue response continue to progress. PMID- 2527483 TI - Evaluation of teicoplanin for treatment of endocarditis caused by gram-positive cocci in 20 patients. AB - Teicoplanin, a new glycopeptide antibiotic similar to vancomycin, was evaluated for the treatment of bacterial endocarditis in an open multicenter study from May 1985 to August 1987. A total of 20 patients with positive blood culture endocarditis received teicoplanin once daily as a mean intravenous injection of 7.3 mg/kg of body weight (range, 4.8 to 10.6 mg/kg); in 17 patients, teicoplanin was combined with another antibiotic, usually an aminoglycoside. The mean duration of therapy was 28 days (range, 7 to 66 days). The diagnosis of endocarditis was confirmed by echocardiography or anatomical findings in 15 patients and established on the basis of clinical manifestations plus positive blood cultures in 5 patients. The tricuspid valve was involved in 11 of the 20 patients. Isolates from blood were 12 Staphylococcus aureus, 1 Staphylococcus hominis, 1 Micrococcus sedentarius, 1 Enterococcus faecalis, 3 Streptococcus bovis, and 2 nongroupable Streptococcus sp. At the end of therapy, bacterial eradication was achieved in 17 of 20 patients (85%), and a favorable clinical outcome had occurred in 14 of 17 evaluable patients (82%). Of these 14 patients, one relapsed 4 months after the end of treatment. Thus, teicoplanin was effective in 13 of 17 patients (76%). Mean peak levels of teicoplanin in serum were lower, 23.1 +/- 2.9 micrograms/ml, in patients who failed than in those who were cured (45.8 +/- 8.4 micrograms/ml). Side effects occurred in 7 of 20 patients (35%), and required premature discontinuation of teicoplanin in 3 patients. These side effects were fever in three patients, rash in three patients, hearing loss in two patients, and increased serum transaminase levels in two patients. This study demonstrates the efficacy of teicoplanin in the treatment of endocarditis and the need for achieving peak levels in serum close to 40 micrograms/ml. Teicoplanin should now be further evaluated in endocarditis caused by gram-positive cocci means of controlled comparative study with standard therapy. PMID- 2527485 TI - Should surgical support within the same institution be required for percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty? PMID- 2527484 TI - Lactobacilli and bile salt hydrolase in the murine intestinal tract. AB - Mice that have a complex intestinal microflora but that do not harbor lactobacilli were used to determine the contribution of lactobacilli to the total bile salt hydrolase activity in the murine intestinal tract. Bile salt hydrolase activity in the ileal contents of these mice was reduced 86% in the absence of lactobacilli and by greater than 98% in the absence of lactobacilli and enterococci compared with samples from conventional mice. Bile salt hydrolase activities were lower in ileal and cecal contents from lactobacillus-free mice colonized with enterococci than in samples from lactobacillus-free mice colonized with lactobacilli. Bile salt hydrolase activity in the duodena, jejuna, ilea, and ceca of reconstituted lactobacillus-free mice colonized by lactobacilli was similar to that in samples from the intestinal tracts of conventional mice. We conclude from these studies that lactobacilli are the main contributors to total bile salt hydrolase activity in the murine intestinal tract. PMID- 2527486 TI - [Influence of left ventricular hypertrophy on its function in essential arterial hypertension. Analysis by Doppler echocardiography]. AB - In order to evaluate the influence of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) on the function of this ventricle, twenty patients with essential arterial hypertension (EAH) were studied using Doppler echocardiography. Patients with diastolic blood pressure greater than 91 mmHg were included. Antihypertensive treatment was stopped 2 weeks before the study. None of them had any concomitant coronary artery disease nor kidney involvement. Left ventricular diameters, left ventricular mass (LVM), stroke volume, fractional shortening, mean velocity of circumferential shortening (Vcfr), mean velocity of circumferential relaxation, mean velocity of aortic flow and mean E and A velocities of mitral flow as well as the ratio of these velocities (E/A) were measured or calculated. With those values from the entire group, arithmetic means were calculated and the population was divided into two groups: those with values greater than the mean and those with values below the mean for each variable for comparative purposes. The relationship of the individual values was also calculated. The interventricular septum thickness and the left ventricular end diastolic diameter were proportional with diastolic blood pressure (p less than 0.05). The LVM values shown an inverse relationship to the fractional shortening (p less than 0.01), Vcfr (p less than 0.05) as well as end diastolic diameter of left ventricle (r = 0.889, p less than 0.01) and with the stroke volume (r = -0.861, p less than 0.01). The E/A ratio was proportional to the fractional shortening (p less than 0.05) and to Vcfr (r = 0.903). The A velocity of the mitral Doppler flow showed an inverse proportion to the Vcfr (p less than 0.05).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527487 TI - Determinants of vocational disability in patients with low back pain. AB - Eighty-seven unemployed subjects with low back pain were recruited from an orthopedic back pain clinic and were given a battery of physical and psychologic tests. Subjects were contacted six months later to determine their current compensation status and whether they had returned to work. Age, length of time out of work, how much they had lifted in their previous job, the number of weeks they had been compensated, current activity levels, leg pain, and various psychologic factors significantly differentiated those who worked from those who did not. Physical examination findings and testing of the ability to lift were not significantly related to return to work. It is suggested that demographic, job-related, and psychologic factors should be emphasized, rather than only physical capacity, in the evaluation of vocational potential and the assessment of disability in patients with low back pain. PMID- 2527488 TI - Lumbar spondylolisthesis: retrospective comparison and three-year follow-up of two conservative treatment programs. AB - Forty-eight patients with symptomatic back pain secondary to spondylolisthesis who were treated conservatively were followed for three years after initial examination to compare the outcomes of two exercise programs. The patients were divided into two groups--those doing flexion and those doing extension back strengthening exercises. All patients received instructions on posture, lifting techniques, and the use of heat for relief of symptoms. After three months, only 27% of patients who were instructed in flexion exercises had moderate or severe pain and only 32% were unable to work or had limited their work. Of the patients who were instructed in extension exercises, 67% had moderate or severe pain and 61% were unable to work or had limited their work. At three-year follow-up, only 19% of the flexion group had moderate or severe pain and 24% were unable to work or had limited their work. The respective figures for the extension group were 67% and 61%. The overall recovery rate after three months was 58% for the flexion group and 6% for the extension group. At three years these figures improved to 62% for the flexion group and dropped to 0% for the extension group. The literature is scarce regarding the applicability of conservative treatment programs for lumbar spondylolisthesis. On the basis of our findings, we suggest that if a conservative treatment program is elected, back flexion or isometric back strengthening exercises should be considered. The three-year follow-up data presented here lend support to this point of view. PMID- 2527489 TI - [Structural variability of cardiomyocytes of various parts of the heart in its hyperfunction]. AB - By means of morphometrical and histological methods hearts of 84 white rats have been studied in 3 months after right-sided pulmonectomy. Cardiac hyperfunction resulted is accompanied with an increased mass of its parts, where hypertrophy of the right ventricle and atrium predominate. Hypertrophy of myocardial parts takes place mainly at the expense of increasing length and width of cardiomyocytes; this causes disorganization and disordering of morphological systems and an essential decrease of compensatory possibilities of the hyperfunctioning heart parts. PMID- 2527490 TI - Effect of hemodialysis on T lymphocyte subsets, con-A-activated suppressor cell activity, and interleukin-2 receptor expression on lymphocytes in chronic uremic patients. AB - Effect of hemodialysis (HD) on some indices of immune response was studied in nine chronic uremics. Total lymphocyte, OKT4+, and OKT8+ cell numbers significantly decreased during the first 20 min of HD, and they were decreased till the third hour of the procedure, whereas the OKT4+/OKT8+ cell number ratio did not change significantly. Before HD, Con-A--activated suppressor cells exerted a stimulatory action on autologous responder cells measured in two-step culture. During HD, Con-A-activated suppressor cell activity transiently appeared, with its peak at 60 min after the start of HD. It was accompanied by a transient rise in lymphocyte count with spontaneous interleukin-2 (IL-2) receptor expression, whereas the number of cells expressing IL-2 receptor following phytohemaglutinin (PHA) stimulation was progressively decreased during HD. A significant correlation was found between the increment of Con-A-activated suppressor cell activity and the increment of spontaneous IL-2 receptor expression on lymphocytes during one single blood flow through the dialyzer. The results supply further evidence that HD may impose additional disturbances on immune regulation in chronic uremics. PMID- 2527491 TI - Silicone-induced foreign-body reaction after temporomandibular joint arthroplasty. Case report. AB - Dacron-reinforced Silastic sheets were removed from two patients who had previously undergone surgery for internal derangements of the temporomandibular joint. Excised tissue from around the joints was submitted for histological analysis, revealing a diagnosis of detritus synovitis. The significance of these findings with respect to the insertion of foreign material into the jaw joint is discussed in the light of recent research. PMID- 2527492 TI - Clinical evaluation of Scotchbond: three-year results. AB - In a previous paper, the one-year retention of composite resin in non-undercut Class V abrasion lesions mediated by self-cure Scotchbond dentine bonding agent without enamel etching was reported. The present paper reports the three-year results. Initially, a total of 310 restorations was placed using Silux, Silar, Ketac-Fil and Fuji II. The percentage cumulative loss of the restorations at two and three years, respectively, was: Silux 27, 30; Silar 58, 58; Ketac-Fil 0, 0; Fuji II 4, 14. Over the total study period, there was a high loss rate of composite restorations in the first six months, and a tendency to increased loss over one to three years. There was a significant increase in marginal discoloration, assessed photographically, over the three-year period, and caries was present around some restorations. PMID- 2527494 TI - Effects of penicillins and 6-aminohexanoic acid on the kinetics of human plasmin. AB - Human plasmin activity is inhibited by various penicillins in a dose-dependent manner. Ampicillin and cloxacillin produce a 50% inhibition of the globinolytic activity of plasmin at 4.5 and 5.3 mM respectively. A lower inhibitory capacity is displayed by carbenicillin. Assay of plasmin by its amidolytic activity on D valyl-L-leucyl-L-lysine p-nitroanilide dihydrochloride showed that ampicillin at a concentration producing half-maximal inhibition converted the hyperbolic activity-substrate concentration curve into a sigmoidal curve. A similar conversion occurred in the presence of ampicillin when plasmin was assayed with an alternative chromogenic substrate, L-pyroglutamyl-glycyl-L-arginine p nitroanilide hydrochloride 6-Aminohexanoic acid at 7.5 microM abolished the inhibition of plasmin induced by ampicillin. The present observations suggest that ampicillin interacts with plasmin at a regulatory site different from the active site of the enzyme. The effect of 6-aminohexanoic acid indicates that the lysine-binding site may be part of a regulatory site. It is possible that modulation of plasmin activity by ligands plays a role in the control of fibrinolysis. PMID- 2527493 TI - Aberrant energy-linked reactions in mitochondria isolated from the livers of rats infected with the liver fluke Fasciola hepatica. AB - The respiratory properties of mitochondria isolated from the livers of rats infected with the parasite Fasciola hepatica were examined. Oligomycin-sensitive ATPase activity was also examined during the acute stage (2-4 weeks post infection). At 2,4 and 6 weeks post-infection, mitochondrial respiration in vitro (supported by site I and site II substrates) was completely uncoupled. Limited respiratory control had returned by 11 weeks post-infection, but complete recovery was not observed even at 21 weeks post-infection. At 4 weeks post infection, uncoupled respiration (from all three energy-conserving sites) was also markedly attenuated (to the greatest extent with NADH-linked substrate). Except for pyruvate-supported respiration, this attenuation was not apparent at any other stage of the infection. The attenuation of pyruvate-supported respiration declined, but was still present, at 6 weeks post-infection. In addition to these perturbations in mitochondrial respiratory properties, mitochondrial ATPase activity at 4 weeks post-infection was insensitive to oligomycin, indicating a change in the structural integrity of the ATPase complex. PMID- 2527495 TI - The interleukin-1 receptor in Raji human B-lymphoma cells. Molecular characterization and evidence for receptor-mediated activation of gene expression. AB - In a previous paper [Horuk, Huang, Covington & Newton (1987) J. Biol. Chem. 262, 16275-16278] we reported that there were fundamental differences in the biochemical properties of the interleukin-1 (IL-1) receptor between Raji and EL4 cell lines. In the present study we have investigated the basis for these differences. Kinetic studies measuring the on and off rates of IL-1 receptor binding revealed that the low-affinity IL-1-binding sites observed in Raji cells, compared with EL4 cells, result from a combination of a lower association rate and a higher dissociation rate in the Raji cells. The turnover of the Raji IL-1 receptor, measured by inhibiting protein synthesis with cycloheximide, was much faster than that of the EL4 IL-1 receptor, with a half-time of 2 h as against 5 h. Treatment of 125I-IL-1-labelled IL-1 receptors in Raji and EL4 cells with neuraminidase decreased their molecular mass by approx. 2-5 kDa as assessed by SDS/polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis (PAGE). The covalently labelled IL-1 receptors in both cell types were sensitive to treatment with endoglycosidase F, which decreased their molecular mass on SDS/PAGE by 12-13 kDa. Incubation of Raji cells with maximally stimulating doses of IL-1 resulted in an increase in the nascent RNA levels of several genes, including the IL-2 receptor and the proto oncogenes c-Ha-ras and c-myc. PMID- 2527496 TI - Evidence for two isoforms of the endoplasmic-reticulum Ca2+ pump in pig smooth muscle. AB - cDNA clones coding for the endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-transport ATPase have been cloned from a pig smooth-muscle cDNA library. The transcripts can be divided into two classes which differ in their 3' ends due to alternative splicing of the primary gene transcript. The class 1 cDNA encodes a protein of 997 amino acids (Mr 110,000). The class 2 protein (1042 amino acids; Mr 115,000) is completely identical to the class 1 protein except that the four C-terminal amino acids of the class 1 protein are replaced in the class 2 protein with a tail of 49 amino acids. Comparison of these sequences with other Ca2+ pump sequences reveals that the class 1 isoform corresponds to the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ pump of slow twitch skeletal/cardiac muscle, whereas the class 2 protein corresponds to a Ca2+ pump recently detected in non-muscle tissues. PMID- 2527497 TI - Isolation and characterization of an activator protein for the hydrolysis of ganglioside GM2 from the roe of striped mullet (Mugil cephalus). AB - After the revelation of the presence of ganglioside GM2 as the major ganglioside in the roe of striped mullet, Mugil cephalus [Li, Hirabayashi, DeGasperi, Yu, Ariga, Koerner & Li (1984) J. Biol. Chem. 259, 8980-8985], we have continued to investigate the catabolism of GM2 in this tissue. We have found that mullet roe contains a specific activator protein which stimulates the hydrolysis of GM2 carried out by the beta-hexosaminidase isolated from the same tissue. This activator has been purified by using conventional procedures including ammonium sulphate fractionation and chromatography on Sepharose 6B, DEAE-Sephadex A-50, octyl-Sepharose and Matrex Gel Blue A columns. This activator protein is also able to stimulate the hydrolysis of GM2 carried out by human beta-hexosaminidase A. Unlike human GM2-activator, the roe activator protein does not stimulate the hydrolysis of GgOse3Cer or GbOse4Cer. The molecular mass (18 kDa) of the roe activator protein was found to be similar to that of human GM2-activator; however, the pI (pH 4.1) was found to be lower than that of human GM2-activator. This is the first report on the presence of a GM2-activator protein in a source other than mammalian tissues. PMID- 2527498 TI - Studies of a monoclonal antibody to skeletal keratan sulphate. Importance of antibody valency. AB - A mouse monoclonal antibody (AN9P1) to keratan sulphate is described. In a competitive-inhibition solution-phase radioimmunoassay employing 125I-labelled intact proteoglycan, it reacts preferentially with keratan sulphate bound to the core protein of adult human articular-cartilage proteoglycan and to a much lesser degree with keratan sulphate purified from this proteoglycan. Proteolytic cleavage of the proteoglycan by pepsin and trypsin has little effect on antibody binding, but treatment with papain decreases binding considerably and more than does treatment with keratanase. An even greater decrease in binding is observed after treatment with alkaline borohydride. A comparison of binding of antibody AN9P1 with that of another previously described monoclonal antibody, 1/20/5-D-4, to keratan sulphate [Caterson, Christner & Baker (1983) J. Biol. Chem. 258, 8848 8854] revealed similar binding characteristics, both showing much diminished binding after papain digestion of proteoglycan and even less with purified skeletal keratan sulphate. Removal of the Fc piece of antibody AN9P1 had no significant effect on the differential binding of divalent F(ab')2 fragment to proteoglycan, to papain-digested proteoglycan and to keratan sulphate, although there was a small decrease in binding to papain-digested proteoglycan. Conversion of the antibody into univalent Fab fragment with removal of the Fc piece resulted in diminished binding to proteoglycan, compared with that observed with IgG, and in enhanced binding to free keratan sulphate and to papain-digested proteoglycan. These results suggest that close proximity of keratan sulphate chains on the core protein of proteoglycans favours preferential reactivity of bivalent antibody with these species through cross-bridging of chains by antibody. Conversely, much decreased binding to keratan sulphate on proteoglycan core-protein fragments and to free keratan sulphate results from a lack of close proximity of keratan sulphate. By using univalent Fab fragment in these assays these differences in binding are minimized by preventing cross-bridging and thereby enhancing detection of smaller fragments without sacrificing too much sensitivity of detection of larger proteoglycan species. The persistent preferential binding of Fab fragment to proteoglycan is probably in part the result of the increased epitope density in the intact molecule compared with keratan sulphate in a more disperse form. PMID- 2527499 TI - A protein kinase C pseudosubstrate peptide inhibits phosphorylation of the CD3 antigen in streptolysin-O-permeabilized human T lymphocytes. AB - Activation of human T lymphocytes leads to the phosphorylation of the CD3-antigen gamma polypeptide. We have investigated a possible role for protein kinase C (PKC) in mediating this phosphorylation event by using T cells permeabilized with streptolysin-O in the presence of 120 mM-K+ buffers containing Ca2+-EGTA. The gamma-chain was phosphorylated by [gamma-32P]ATP in permeabilized T lymphoblasts in the presence of phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate (Pdbu) or phytohaemagglutinin (PHA). Ca2+ alone in the range 0.5-1.0 microM also induced gamma-chain phosphorylation in some T-lymphoblast preparations; that in Jurkat-6 cells occurred at lower concentrations (50-500 nM). Two experimental approaches were used to investigate the possible involvement of PKC. Firstly, when permeabilization was carried out in buffer lacking free Ca2+, PKC was lost from the cells, and gamma-chain phosphorylation could then no longer be induced on subsequent addition of Pdbu or PHA in 400 nM-Ca2+, or 800 nM-Ca2+ alone, to permeabilized cells. However, when permeabilization was carried out in the presence of these three agents, PKC was translocated to intracellular membranes, and subsequent addition of [gamma 32P]ATP to these cells then resulted in gamma-chain phosphorylation. In the second approach, induction of gamma-chain phosphorylation by Pdbu, 1-oleoyl-2 acetylglycerol, 1,2-diolein, PHA or Ca2+ alone was effectively blocked by permeabilizing T cells in the presence of a PKC pseudosubstrate peptide (50 microM). Pseudosubstrate concentrations in the range 7-20 microM inhibited gamma chain phosphorylation by 50%. In contrast, addition of four other 'irrelevant' basic peptides (50 microM) did not result in detectable inhibition, and 50 microM pseudosubstrate did not inhibit the phosphorylation of 17 other polypeptides isolated from permeabilized T cells. These data suggest that Pdbu-, 1,2 diacylglycerol-, PHA- and Ca2+-induced phosphorylation of the CD3-antigen gamma chain in permeabilized T cells is mediated by PKC. PMID- 2527500 TI - Inhibition of myosin light chain kinase by amiloride. AB - Phosphorylation of regulatory light chain (LC20) by myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) has been thought to play an important role in both smooth muscle contraction and several functions of vertebrate non-muscle cells. Amiloride, a frequently used Na+/H+ exchange inhibitor, potently inhibited phosphorylation of LC20 by MLCK. The inhibition was non-competitive with respect to myosin but competitive with ATP (Ki = 0.95 microM), suggesting that amiloride may act as an ATP analogue. Amiloride also inhibited the tension development of ether-treated gizzard fibers which were lacking in Na+/H+ antiport, even in the presence of ATP regenerating system. Thus, it must be reminded that amiloride cannot be used as a specific inhibitor of Na+/H+ exchange, and that the inhibition of myosin phosphorylation by amiloride should be taken into consideration in studying the role of Na+/H+ antiport in the cellular function. PMID- 2527501 TI - Dicyclohexylcarbodiimide-binding protein is a subunit of the Methanosarcina barkeri ATPase complex. AB - Membrane ATPase of Methanosarcina barkeri was inhibited by N, N' dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCCD), whereas the extrinsic alpha beta complex of the same enzyme was not. Consistent with this finding, a 6,000 dalton (6 kDa) membrane protein was preferentially labeled with radioactive DCCD. The DCCD sensitive ATPase was solubilized from the membranes with octylglucoside and purified in the presence of this detergent. The purified ATPase contained the alpha and beta subunits and also at least four additional proteins (40, 27, 23 and 6 kDa). The 6 kDa protein in the purified enzyme reacted with DCCD, indicating that it is a subunit of an integral part of the M. barkeri ATPase complex. PMID- 2527502 TI - Multiple marker validity of urinary hexosaminidase and polyamines in haematopoietic malignancy. AB - Proliferation end products are of considerable value as tumour markers. Hexosaminidase and polyamines were significantly elevated in urine of patients with leukemia and lymphoma (p less than 0.001). Interfering low molecular weight compounds were eliminated by a microcolumn centrifuge method. Urinary polyamines were estimated by high voltage electrophoresis technique. Marked increase in these markers in untreated patients and subsequent decrease on effective chemotherapy support the use of these two tumour markers to monitor therapeutic response. PMID- 2527503 TI - Isolation of the peptide inhibitor of H+-ATP synthase from Crithidia fasciculata and Trypanosoma cruzi. AB - An inhibitor of Crithidia fasciculata and Trypanosoma cruzi H+ -ATP synthase (ATPase) was isolated from these organims mitochondrial particles, either by (a) ammonium sulfate-cholate extraction followed by heat treatment and ethanol precipitation, or (b) gel-filtration on Sephadex G-50, followed by a similar purification procedure. Inactivation by trypsin supported the inhibitor peptide structure. Removal of the peptide inhibitor increased about three-fold the specific activity of the protozoan ATPases. The isolated peptides and a highly purified bovine heart ATPase inhibitor inhibited C. fasciculata ATPase as a function of the peptide concentration. PMID- 2527504 TI - Histones bind to contractile proteins and inhibit actomyosin ATPase. AB - Nuclear histones bind to and precipitate the major contractile proteins, actin and myosin. The binding of histone to actin seems to reach saturation at 2:1 ratio, the interaction may serve some regulatory function(s) in intranuclear events. The binding of histone to myosin is not saturable, and, although it inhibits the actin-activated Mg2+-dependent myosin ATPase activity, does therefore not seem of physiological importance. PMID- 2527505 TI - Ebstein's anomaly in a patient with Down's syndrome. AB - This communication describes a patient with Down's syndrome, in whom an Ebstein's anomaly of the tricuspid valve was found at autopsy. The association of these two conditions appears to be rare. PMID- 2527506 TI - A second look at consequences for medical education of problem solving in science and medicine. AB - This article reports that most freshman and senior medical students in one medical school were not able to solve a written problem case, concerning back pain, that required the examinee to recognize that foot drop was a key physical finding. The students' responses were not influenced by the fact that half of the examinations listed the foot drop finding first and the other half listed it seventh in a list of eight physical findings. The authors conclude that the outcome of this sample problem hints at a fault in medical education: the failure of medical students to learn the skill of formulating overall hypotheses and subhypotheses before choosing treatment options. PMID- 2527507 TI - A natural interleukin 1 (IL-1) inhibitor counteracts the inhibitory effect of IL 1 on insulin production in cultured rat pancreatic islets. AB - Several lines of evidence suggest that autoimmune processes are involved in the pathogenesis of Type I diabetes mellitus. Monocyte-macrophages are among the first mononuclear cells to invade the islets of Langerhans in various murine diabetic syndromes, and blockade of monocyte-macrophage functions by injection of silica particles in these animals prevents the development of the disease. Monokines such as interleukin 1 (IL-1) are known to mediate tissue lesions by inducing collagenase and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production. In addition, IL-1 has been demonstrated to inhibit proinsulin biosynthesis and secretion in pancreatic islet cells. Using 3-d cultured rat islets we have found that (a) the lowering of insulin release induced by human recombinant IL-1 (rIL-1) is dose dependent with a decrease to 21% of control value at the higher rIL-1 tested concentration (500 pg/ml), and about two times more pronounced than the decrease in cellular insulin content, which reached 44% of control value at the highest rIL-1 concentration; (b) rIL-1 stimulates islets to secrete PGE2 but the addition of indomethacin, which blocks PGE2 production, does not affect the decrease in insulin release and content caused by IL-1, suggesting a limited role of endogenous PGE2 as a mediator in this system; and (c) a specific, noncytotoxic IL 1 inhibitor, shown in other cell systems to block the binding of IL-1 to its receptor, prevents the rIL-1 lowering of insulin content and minimizes the decrease of insulin release. PMID- 2527508 TI - Investigations of intrinsic abnormalities in DNA-specific B lymphocytes from autoimmune mice. AB - In murine models of systemic lupus erythematosus and in many humans with SLE, antibodies against native DNA (dsDNA) are a major contributor to the pathogenesis of the disease. Loss of self-tolerance to the DNA antigen may be associated with B-cell defects or regulatory cell dysfunction. We have developed B-cell lines with specificity for the antigen DNA, from both the autoimmune BWF1 mouse strain and from the non-autoimmune BALB/c strain, to use in the investigation of inherent B-cell defects in autoimmunity. Six BWF1 cell lines and five BALB/c cell lines which are free of Thy1.2+ cells and esterase positive cells, and have between 35 and 89% rosetting with dsDNA-SRBC targets, have been propagated in vitro for 24-36 months. The cells are non-malignant, growth-factor dependent and have no antigen or mitogen in the growth medium. Lyt-1 positive cells are found in the cell lines, but Lyt-1 negative cells are also present. They respond to the antigen DNA-HRBC when EL-4 supernatant is present in culture, and the peak of the plaque-forming cell (PFC) response is the same for both strains. When cells from both strains are cultured with varying amounts of T-cell factors, there is no difference in spontaneous antibody-forming cell (AFC) formation or in response to anti-mu stimulation between BWF1 and BALB/c strains. BALB/c spleen cells do not respond to DNA-HRBC in this culture system, but BWF1 spleen cells, as well as cell line cells from both strains, respond to this antigen. T cells from non responding BALB/c spleen and responding BWF1 spleen are able to suppress the immune response to DNA-HRBC of cell line B cells from both strains. Propagating B cell lines in the presence of DNA for 2 weeks stimulates BWF1 cell line cells, but suppresses the response of BALB/c cell lines to antigen. PMID- 2527509 TI - A requirement for continued graft presence in the maintenance of systemic tolerance induced by cyclosporin A (CyA) in rats. AB - We report on a requirement for the continued presence of a heart graft in the maintenance of systemic tolerance induced by cyclosporin A (CyA). Hearts from DA rats (RT1a) were grafted into PVG (RT1c) recipient. CyA-induced long-term survivors (LTS) bearing functioning heart grafts are systemically tolerant, as demonstrated by the significant prolongation (greater than 50 days) of donor strain skin grafts. In contrast, donor-strain skins grafted 3 weeks after the removal of heart grafts from LTS are acutely rejected (median survival 10.0 days; P less than 0.005). Using an adoptive transfer assay, 5 x 10(7) splenic lymphocytes obtained from LTS 3 weeks after the removal of the heart grafts fail to mediate adoptive tolerance (median survival 17.0 days), in contrast to the tolerance achieved by splenic lymphocytes obtained from LTS with functioning heart grafts (median survival greater than 100 days; P less than 0.005). PMID- 2527510 TI - Expression and regulation of interleukin-1 mRNA and interleukin-1 receptors in human B-cell lines. AB - Long-term human lymphoid B-cell lines have been described to produce a number of growth factors, including interleukin-1 (IL-1) which may be of importance in the autocrine growth regulation of these cells and may participate in their antigen presenting function. In this report, we have analyzed the production of IL-1 by 12 established B-cell lines at the level of mRNA expression. Among the 5 cell lines containing an IL-1 message, three expressed exclusively IL-1 alpha, one contained traces of IL-1 beta, and only one line contained both. The steady-state level of IL-1 alpha mRNA in these cells could be drastically increased by a short culture of the cells with the protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide or with PMA. PMA, however, induced a transient increase in mRNA which could be stabilized by Ca2+ ionophore. Furthermore, only constitutively produced IL-1 mRNA are increased by these compounds which do not induce de novo transcription of silent IL-1 genes in these lines. These data provide the basis for further investigations on the regulation of IL-1 mRNA expression in human B cells. In addition, we studied expression of IL-1 receptors in these lines and observed that only cells which produce IL-1, displayed IL-1 receptors at their surface, as detected by radiolabeled IL-1 binding experiments. These data strongly suggest an autocrine role for IL-1 in these lines. IL-1 mRNA and IL-1 receptors were reciprocally regulated by PMA, which increased IL-1 mRNA and lowered the number of receptors.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527511 TI - Cognate interactions between helper T cells and B cells. I. Cloning and helper activity of a lymphokine-dependent helper T cell clone (Th-3). AB - Two essential events in the development of humoral immune responses to thymus dependent (TD) antigens are the physical interaction of helper T cells (Th) with B cells and the elaboration of Th-derived lymphokines. Understanding the respective contribution of Th-B cell contact vs. lymphokines in triggering B-cell growth and differentiation has been hindered by the capacity of most Th clones to provide both cell contact-dependent and lymphokine-dependent signals. Our approach to study the role of lymphokines in TD B-cell growth and differentiation was to select antigen-specific Th clones that were able to induce class II restricted B-cell growth and differentiation only in the presence of exogenously added lymphokines. In such a way, selected Th clones would putatively be defective in lymphokine production, but able to provide cell contact-dependent signals. One clone selected in this manner, Th-3.1, has been instrumental in addressing the role of IL4 in TD B-cell responses. Upon co-culture of purified TNP-specific B cells (TNP-ABC), antigen, and Th-3.1, Th-3.1 was unable to induce TNP-ABC growth or differentiation unless an exogenous lymphokine source (EL4 SN) was provided. The reason for the exogenous lymphokine requirement was two-fold. First, it appeared that Th-3.1 required IL2 to produce lymphokines (IL4) essential for B-cell growth and differentiation. Second, even in the presence of antigen and IL2, the level of lymphokine production by Th-3.1 was insufficient to induce optimal B-cell responses. Because an exogenous source of lymphokines was essential for Th-3.1-induced TNP-ABC growth and differentiation, the requirement for specific lymphokines in TD B-cell responses could be addressed. One lymphokine shown to be necessary for Th-3.1-induced TNP-ABC growth and differentiation was IL4. Addition of anti-IL4 to culture or the depletion of IL4 from the exogenous lymphokine source reduced the TD proliferative and antibody response of TNP-ABC. Because the addition of IL4 alone was unable to restore helper activity, it was concluded that IL4 was necessary but not sufficient for TD B-cell growth and differentiation. Pre-incubation of TNP-ABC and IL4 overcame the IL4 requirement when co-cultured with Th-3.1 and antigen.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2527512 TI - Conformation of the metastasis-inhibiting laminin pentapeptide. AB - The binding of cancer cells to the basement membrane glycoprotein laminin appears to be a critical step in the metastatic process. This binding can be inhibited competitively by a specific pentapeptide sequence (Tyr-Ile-Gly-Ser-Arg) of the laminin B1 chain, and this peptide can prevent metastasis formation in vivo. However, other similar pentapeptide sequences (e.g., Tyr-Ile-Gly-Ser-Glu) have been found to be much less active in metastasis inhibition, raising the possibility that such amino acid substitutions produce structural changes responsible for altering binding to the laminin receptor. In this study, conformational energy analysis has been used to determine the three-dimensional structures of these peptides. The results indicate that the substitution of Glu for the terminal Arg produces a significant conformational change in the peptide backbone at the middle Gly residue. These results have important implications for the design of drugs that may be useful in preventing metastasis formation and tumor spread. PMID- 2527514 TI - Immunological studies of trophoblast antigens: no evidence for human leucocyte antigen (HLA) linkage. AB - Parental disparity for trophoblast-lymphocyte crossreactive (TLX) antigens may promote successful pregnancy. A TLX antigen system has been defined on peripheral blood lymphocytes by heteroantisera. More recently, we have reported additional activity against antigens on B lymphocytes alone termed trophoblast-B lymphocyte crossreactive (TBX) antigens. In the present study we have investigated ten TLX sera in order to determine if their target antigens are linked to the human leucocyte antigen (HLA) gene complex. The sera showed no selective activity when tested against target B lymphocytes from ten normal donors. Cytotoxic activity of TLX antisera against peripheral blood lymphocytes from six normal donors was not reduced when the class I HLA antigens of the target cells were blocked with a monoclonal antibody (PA 2.6). Similarly the cytotoxic activity of both TBX antisera against B lymphocytes from six normal donors was not decreased when class II HLA antigens were blocked by a monoclonal antibody (FMC 4). Within a family the cytotoxic activity of the TLX antisera was absorbed equally by lymphocytes from siblings who shared neither HLA haplotype. Antibody content in TLX and TBX antisera is not directed toward the classically defined HLA class I or class II antigens and is not linked to the HLA gene complex. PMID- 2527515 TI - Trophoblast induction of suppressor-type cell activity in human endometrial tissue. AB - First trimester (10-12 weeks gestation) human decidua contains small lymphocytic suppressor cells that release 22 and 43 kd soluble suppressor factors blocking the action of interleukin 2. Luteal phase endometrium, in contrast, contains large suppressor cells that do not release soluble immunosuppressive factors. However, if luteal phase endometrium from days 24 to 25 of the menstrual cycle is incubated with placental syncytiotrophoblast membrane vesicles, suppressor factors having the same molecular weight as those found in end of first-trimester pregnancy decidua are released into the supernatant. This generation of soluble suppressor activity is dependent on cells similar in size to the small lymphocytic suppressor cell population. When uterine decidua is obtained from women with tubal ectopic pregnancy (early in the first trimester), the decidual tissue releases soluble immunosuppressive factors with a 100-135 kd molecular mass and the suppressor cells are large rather than small in size. Supernatant conditioned by trophoblast dissected from ectopic implants was able to interact with large cells in luteal phase endometrium to generate additional soluble suppressor activity. A model is proposed wherein fetal trophoblast activates two suppressor cell populations (large and small) in endometrium via soluble long range inducer and by direct contact with trophoblast membrane. The potential role of trophoblast-dependent suppressor cells in preventing rejection of the conceptus leading to occult or clinical abortion is discussed. PMID- 2527513 TI - Influence of various structural domains of fibrinogen and fibrin on the potentiation of plasminogen activation by recombinant tissue plasminogen activator. AB - Fibrinogen, fibrin, and related fragments have varying stimulatory effects on the initial rate of the activation of human plasminogen ([ Glu1]Pg) by recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA). A detailed analysis of this enhancement was undertaken using various purified and complexed forms of the known domains of fibrin(ogen) with a view to gaining additional knowledge regarding the substructures of fibrinogen and fibrin that are important for their stimulatory capacities. Both arvin-mediated fibrin, as well as fibrinogen fragments generated as a result of its cleavage with CNBr, stimulate the activation in a biphasic manner, most likely as a result of changes in the promoter molecule accompanying the denaturation processes that are normally employed to either solubilize or generate these particular promoters. Using purified fibrinogen and fibrin fragments, it was found that fragment E, which binds to [Glu1]Pg, does not enhance the activation reaction, while fragment D1 has a potentiating effect. This suggests that the binding of [Glu1]Pg to fibrin(ogen) alone is not, in itself, sufficient for stimulation of activation to occur, but that the rt-PA fibrin(ogen) interaction is fundamental to this same process. All purified and mixtures of fragments containing the fragment D domain (e.g., D2E, X-oligomer, fragment X) stimulate the reaction to a greater degree than fibrinogen and fragment D1. It is concluded that the fibrinogen D domain is a sine qua non for the enhancement reaction, while structures containing the E domain had a symbiotic effect on enhancement. PMID- 2527516 TI - Suppression of lymphocyte activation by a soluble factor released from the human placental chorionic membrane: chemical analysis and functional characterization. AB - A heat-resistant factor that markedly and reversibly inhibits human lymphocyte activation was discovered in culture medium of human placental chorion. The chorionic factor inhibits lymphocyte proliferation in response to polyclonal mitogens and in the mixed leukocyte response. The inhibitory action is most effective if the factor is added during the first 24 h of lymphocyte culture and is reversible. The chorionic factor is sensitive to proteinase K, pepsin and bovine pancreatic protease; its activity is completely lost after papain digestion and following treatment with trichloracetic acid (TCA). The factor prevents the expression of IL-2 receptors and class II MHC glycoproteins (HLA-DR) on phytohemagglutinin-stimulated PBMC but does not affect the expression of MHC class I molecules. It inhibits the replication of IL-2-dependent CTLD cells but is without effect on the growth of various human or murine cell lines or acute leukemic cells. Human placental chorion is thus capable of releasing in vitro a nontoxic heat-resistant factor with protein characteristics that reversibly inhibits processes associated with the early stages of lymphoid cell triggering. This factor may play a role in an immunoregulatory mechanism that prevents maternally mediated immune rejection of the conceptus. PMID- 2527518 TI - Regulation of IgM production in thermally injured patients. AB - This report examines the capacity of autologous and exogenous interleukin-2 (IL2) to regulate and/or induce immunoglobulin M (IgM) production in these patients. Pokeweed mitogen (PWM)-induced lymphocyte proliferation and PWM- and IL2-induced IgM secretion were monitored in vitro during the postburn period (10 to over 60 days) in 40 patients aged 16-72 years, with burns 20-90 per cent TBSA. PWM induced IgM secretion fluctuated considerably during this period. Twelve of 40 patients demonstrated no IgM production and a significant (P less than 0.001 0.05) proportion of them had profoundly suppressed levels. Of the survivors, restoration of IgM secretion to normal levels was achieved in only 60 per cent at time of discharge. Even more consistently suppressed was exogenous IL2-driven production of IgM. In contrast, PWM-induced lymphoproliferation was normal in over 70 per cent of the patients. Thus, the T-cell-dependent antibody response was suppressed for long periods of time, possibly from some deficiency in IL2 regulated secretion or reception of helper T-cell-derived factors necessary for B cell differentiation into Ig-secreting cells. PMID- 2527517 TI - Detection of immunoregulatory factors in retroplacental serum in human pregnancy. AB - Retroplacental serum (RPS) obtained from pregnant women at term deliveries was studied for regulatory effects on T-lymphocyte proliferation and for pregnancy associated substances and compared with peripheral serum (PS) of the same donor. Proliferative response to phytohemagglutinin and alloantigens in RPS was lower than that in PS. RPS contained higher levels of human placental lactogen, progesterone, estradiol, and prostaglandin E2 than of PS. However, there were no differences in concentrations of pregnancy-associated alpha 2-glycoprotein, pregnancy-specific beta 1-glycoprotein, prostaglandin F2 alpha, alpha fetoprotein, human chorionic gonadotropin, cortisol, carcinoembryonic antigen, and immunoglobulins between RPS and PS. The amounts of human placental lactogen, progesterone, or prostaglandin E2 seen in RPS did not inhibit T-cell proliferation. Mixtures of various doses of these three substances were still not inhibitory. Thus, the suppressive activity of RPS could not be explained by these pregnancy-associated substances, but a possible involvement of unknown immunoregulatory factors at fetomaternal interface might be suggested. PMID- 2527520 TI - Ethanol does not affect serotonin receptor binding in rodent brain. AB - The effects of ethanol on serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) receptor binding in rat and mouse brain were determined under in vitro conditions and in mouse brain following seven days of ethanol ingestion. 5-HT1A receptor characteristics were measured utilizing the agonist [3H]8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)tetralin ([ 3H]DPAT), and 5HT2 receptor-binding studies utilized the antagonist [3H]ketanserin. At the highest concentration of ethanol tested in vitro (680 mM), there was only 25% inhibition of [3H]DPAT binding in rat and mouse brain and 14% inhibition of [3H]ketanserin binding in rat brain. Effects of an anesthetic concentration of ethanol (100 mM) on agonist binding in the presence and absence of the guanine nucleotide GTP were also evaluated in vitro in mouse brain. In no case did ethanol (100 mM) significantly affect 5-HT1A or 5-HT2 receptor-binding characteristics. When 5-HT receptor characteristics were measured after mice consumed ethanol for seven days, there was no change in either 5-HT1A or 5-HT2 receptor-binding properties in any of the brain areas examined. PMID- 2527519 TI - Increased waking as well as increased synchronization following administration of selective 5-HT uptake inhibitors to rats. AB - Sleep and waking stages and EEG power spectra were investigated in rats following saline injections and injection of 10 and 20 mg/kg zimeldine or 10 and 20 mg/kg alaproclate, both selective 5-HT reuptake inhibitors. Following zimeldine there was a biphasic effect on sleep and waking, waking being increased during the first 2 1/2 h of recording, while slow wave sleep (SWS), in particular highly synchronized SWS-2 with high slow wave activity, was increased during the second 2 1/2 h recording period. Analysis of EEG power spectra indicated that the amount of synchronized slow wave activity was also increased within the sleep that occurred during the waking-dominated initial 2 1/2 h period. These data suggest simultaneous appearance of increased waking and increased synchronization following general serotonergic stimulation. They are interpreted as due to effects on different regions of the serotonergic system or on different serotonergic receptors. Consistent with earlier findings, zimeldine also suppressed rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. Following alaproclate, a clear waking effect was present, but only a weak synchronizing effect was seen. This is consistent with data on regional differences in uptake inhibition for zimeldine and alaproclate. Alaproclate also reduced REM sleep. Zimeldine or alaproclate was also administered to rats that had reduced sleep following pretreatment with a moderate dose of parachlorophenylalanine (PCPA). None of the drugs increased waking any further, but the PCPA-pretreated animals that received zimeldine had increased SWS-2, indicating that the SWS-2 increase following zimeldine alone was not a rebound effect. PMID- 2527521 TI - Aluminium and the pathogenesis of senile plaques in Alzheimer's disease, Down's syndrome and chronic renal dialysis. PMID- 2527522 TI - Ultrastructural study of senile plaques and microvessels in the brain with Alzheimer's disease and Down's syndrome. AB - This study examined the relation between amyloid fibrils and senile plaques in brains of patients with Alzheimer's disease. All the senile plaques contained some amyloid fibrils, which seemed to be produced in the basement membranes of capillary endothelial cells and projecting into surrounding parenchyma. Even when amyloid fibrils could not be seen in senile plaques using light microscopy, at least one degenerate capillary containing amyloid fibrils was found when serial sections were examined by electron microscopy. Amyloid fibrils consisted of hollow rods and were composed of filaments arranged as a tightly coiled helix, each turn comprising five globular subunits. Many capillaries and microvessels showed degenerative changes. Many terminal arterioles had smooth muscle cells with an irregular shape and arrangement, often showing a series of focal constrictions. The findings suggest that the capillary degeneration with the formation of amyloid fibrils may be a primary change in the genesis of senile plaques. Furthermore, degenerative changes in the microvessels may also be an important factor in the loss of neurons in the brain of subjects with Alzheimer's disease. PMID- 2527523 TI - Purification of a functional 40 kD human placental Fc gamma-receptor using a monoclonal antibody. AB - F(ab')2-fragments of a mouse monoclonal antibody (B1D6) reacting with placental receptors for the Fc part of IgG (FcR) were used as affinity reagents for the purification of an antigen from placental extract (PE). The antigen agglutinated ovine erythrocytes (E) sensitized with rabbit antibodies (A) (EA), but not E or E sensitized with F(ab')2-fragments. It reduced the EA rosette-formation with mononuclear cells and the binding of soluble immune complexes to placental tissue. The antigen bound to aggregated IgG and Fc-fragments of IgG, but not to native IgG or F(ab')2-fragments of IgG. The data indicate that the purified antigen possesses FcR activity with low affinity for IgG. SDS-PAGE and Western blot showed one distinct band of approximately 40 kD. The electrophoretic mobility did not change after reduction and the band reacted with concanavalin A indicating that the FcR are single-chained glycoproteins. PMID- 2527524 TI - Keratoconus: diagnosis and management. AB - Keratoconus is a common condition whose clinical features represent a common effect on the cornea of a number of diverse processes. This review deals with the clinical signs and accompanying histological and biochemical changes within the cornea, evaluates the significance of associated ocular and systemic conditions and assesses the incidence and prevalence of the disorder. The wider ophthalmic community shares in the treatment of keratoconus, so the general principles of contact lens fitting associated with this difficult condition are examined and the specific protocol used at the Flinders Medical Centre is presented. When contact lenses are not tolerated or an adequate improvement in visual acuity is not achieved, surgery is the next option, so a full assessment is made of the risks and benefits of penetrating keratoplasty. Older techniques, such as thermokeratoplasty and lamellar keratoplasty, are examined and the new technique of epikeratophakia is evaluated. PMID- 2527525 TI - The priming principle: how does it work and should we be using it? PMID- 2527526 TI - Low-dose sufentanil-isoflurane anaesthesia for coronary artery surgery. AB - Haemodynamic changes and catecholamine responses were measured during anaesthesia with sufentanil (total dose 7 micrograms kg-1) supplemented with isoflurane in 14 patients undergoing coronary artery surgery. Isoflurane was used to control systolic arterial pressure, which was allowed to decrease to 100 mm Hg. Mean inspired isoflurane concentration was 0.22 (SD 0.19)% (induction), 0.34 (0.18)% (pre-bypass) and 0.22 (0.17)% (post-bypass). During cardiopulmonary bypass 0.22 (0.13)% isoflurane was administered to control mean perfusion pressure. During induction and the pre-bypass period, significant decreases in systolic and diastolic arterial pressure, systemic vascular resistance and left ventricular stroke work index (LVSWI) (P less than 0.01) were noted. The decrease in LVSWI with unchanged filling pressures indicated myocardial depression. Serum catecholamine concentrations remained at the pre-induction value until cardiopulmonary bypass, when a significant increase was noted. Tracheal intubation, sternotomy and sternal spread were not associated with hypertension or tachycardia. Clinical signs that could reflect myocardial ischaemia were not observed peroperatively. After operation, cardiac enzymes were within the normal clinical range and ECG was unchanged. PMID- 2527527 TI - First International Symposium on Cilazapril Preclinical and Clinical Pharmacology. Lausanne, switzerland, May 5-7, 1988. Proceedings. PMID- 2527528 TI - A review of the preclinical cardiovascular pharmacology of cilazapril, a new angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor. AB - 1. Cilazapril is the monoethyl ester prodrug form of the di-acid cilazaprilat, a new angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. Cilazaprilat has an IC50 of 1.9 nM as an inhibitor of rabbit lung ACE in vitro making it one of the most potent ACE inhibitors currently available. Studies on a wide range of other enzymes show that the inhibition is highly specific. 2. An oral dose of 0.1 mg kg 1 cilazapril evoked the same maximum degree of plasma ACE inhibition (approximately 76%) in the rat as 0.25 mg kg-1 enalapril. Cilazapril (0.25 mg kg 1 p.o.) inhibited plasma ACE by greater than 95%. The rate of recovery of ACE activity was slower with cilazapril (5-6% h-1) than with enalapril (10% h-1). 3. In anaesthetised rats cilazaprilat was equipotent with ramiprilat and slightly more potent (1.5x) than enalaprilat as an inhibitor of the angiotensin I pressor response. 4. Following oral administration to conscious rats and intravenous administration to anaesthetised dogs, cilazapril was 2-4.5x more potent than enalapril as an ACE inhibitor. 5. In cats cilazapril (0.1 and 0.3 mg kg-1 p.o.) dose dependently decreased plasma ACE activity and the angiotensin pressor response. Peak effects occurred at 2 h after dosing and plasma ACE inhibition was maintained at greater than or equal to 50% for up to 18 h. Mean arterial pressure was also decreased dose dependently with a peak effect at 3-4 h. 6. Daily oral dosing of cilazapril (30 mg kg-1 p.o.) to spontaneously hypertensive rats evoked a progressive and prolonged (24 h) antihypertensive response with a maximum decrease in systolic blood pressure of 110 mm Hg. 7. Cilazapril (10 mg kg-1 p.o. twice daily for 3.5 days) progressively decreased blood pressure in volume depleted renal hypertensive dogs. The maximum fall in systolic pressure was 39 +/ 6 mm Hg. 8. Haemodynamic studies in open chest anaesthetised dogs showed that the hypotensive response to intravenous cilazapril was accompanied by a reduction in total peripheral resistance. Small decreases in cardiac output and myocardial contractile force were seen at high doses. 9. Cilazapril had no adverse effect on cardiovascular reflexes. There was no impairment of the baroreflex in rats. Exercise-induced tachycardia and pressor responses in conscious cats were unchanged. 10. Cilazapril is exceptionally well absorbed by the oral route (98% in rats). PMID- 2527529 TI - Effects of acute and chronic cilazapril treatment in spontaneously hypertensive rats. AB - 1. The effects of acute and chronic treatment with cilazapril, a new ACE inhibitor, on peripheral vasculature and renal excretory function were assessed in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Regional blood flow and cardiac output were measured by the radioactive microspheres technique. 2. Acute treatment (3 mg kg-1 intravenously) reduced mean arterial blood pressure from 171 +/- 7 to 140 241 +/- 7 mm Hg (P less than 0.001), chronic treatment (1 x 10 mg kg-1 day-1 orally for 9 weeks) from 191 +/- 5 to 122 +/- 3 mm Hg P less than 0.001). With both kinds of treatments cardiac output was unchanged. Heart rate was slightly decreased (-9%, P less than 0.05) with chronic treatment. Acutely, the main effect of cilazapril was a decrease of the renal vascular resistance (-41%, P less than 0.001) associated with an increase of the fraction of the cardiac output distributed to the kidney (+46%, P less than 0.001). Chronically, cilazapril decreased regional vascular resistance in most of the peripheral vascular beds except the heart. 3. With a high dose of cilazapril (10 mg kg-1 orally) both acute and chronic treatment increased diuresis (+107% and +92%, P less than 0.001) and natriuresis (/124% and +111%, P less than 0.001) with a slight increase in kaliuresis. However, with a low dose (1 mg kg-1 orally) the kidneys responded only to chronic treatment. 4. It is concluded that chronic treatment with cilazapril decreases arterial blood pressure more than acute treatment. This effect seems to be due to a greater peripheral vasodilation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527530 TI - Effects of chronic heart failure on the responsiveness to angiotensin I and to angiotensin converting enzyme inhibition with cilazapril in rats. AB - 1. The effects of heart failure due to chronic myocardial infarction on the responsiveness to injected angiotensin I and ACE inhibition by intravenous cilazapril (1 mg kg-1) were evaluated. 2. For this purpose one group of 17 rats with a 4-week old myocardial infarction was compared with a group of 10 sham operated rats. 3. Heart failure increased markedly the responsiveness of the renal and mesenteric vascular beds to ACE inhibition which produced a vasodilation in these two vascular beds. 4. This increased responsiveness was most likely due to a stimulation of the renin-angiotensin system without any change of sensitivity to angiotensin I of the renal and mesenteric vascular beds. 5. Cilazapril produced the same level of ACE inhibition in both groups of rats. PMID- 2527531 TI - The pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of cilazapril in normal man. AB - 1. The pharmacokinetics of cilazapril and its active metabolite, cilazaprilat, were investigated in a three-part crossover study in 12 healthy male volunteers aged 19-38 years, excluding one subject who withdrew from the study. 2. Single 2.5 mg oral doses of cilazapril, and equivalent oral and intravenous doses of cilazaprilat were administered as aqueous solutions to the fasted subjects. There was an interval of 1 week between treatments. Concentrations of cilazapril and cilazaprilat in plasma and urine, and activities of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) in plasma were measured by radioenzymatic methods. 3. After 10 min infusion of cilazaprilat, the mean plasma concentration was 194 ng ml-1, and ACE inhibition was almost 100%. The decline in concentrations was polyphasic, with mean half-lives for the periods 1-4 h and 24-168 h of 0.90 and 46 h, respectively. Between 4 and 24 h the decline was non-linear, and ACE inhibition decreased from 91% to 67%. Urinary recovery of cilazaprilat averaged 91% of dose. 4. After oral cilazapril, the parent drug was rapidly absorbed and rapidly eliminated, with a mean maximum plasma concentration of 82 ng ml-1 at 0.83 h and a single elimination half-life of 1.3 h. Cilazaprilat peaked at 36 ng ml-1 about 1.7 h after dosing and the decline in concentrations was biphasic, with half lives of 1.8 h and 45 h. After oral cilazaprilat, plasma concentrations were considerably lower, and the peak later (2.2 h). 5. Urinary recovery data indicated an absolute bioavailability for cilazaprilat of 57% (range 45-75%) from oral cilazapril, but only 19% (range 8-40%) from oral cilazaprilat.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527533 TI - The pharmacokinetics and dose proportionality of cilazapril. AB - 1. The pharmacokinetics and dose proportionality of cilazapril, an orally active angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, were investigated in a four-way randomized crossover study in 24 volunteers, over the 0.5 to 5 mg dose range intended for therapeutic use. 2. Plasma concentrations of cilazapril and of the active metabolite cilazaprilat together with plasma ACE activity were determined by radio-enzymatic assay. 3. Plasma concentrations of both cilazapril and cilazaprilat increased in proportion to dose over the range studied. All doses produced substantial inhibition of ACE. Higher doses were associated with earlier onset and longer duration of maximal effect. PMID- 2527532 TI - Correlation between plasma concentration of cilazapril and haemodynamic and hormonal effects in healthy man. AB - 1. The haemodynamic and humoral effects of cilazapril, a new angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, were evaluated in normotensive healthy volunteers. 2. Single oral doses of 1.25, 2.5, 5 and 10 mg of cilazapril inhibited ACE by greater than or equal to 90% and induced the expected pattern of changes of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone-system. 3. Cilazapril had a long duration of action, since some ACE inhibition was still present 72 h after drug intake. 4. Cilazapril administered intravenously at doses of 5 and 20 micrograms kg-1 for 24 h did not produce any significant effects. 5. During repeated administration of cilazapril for 8 days, no accumulation of cilazaprilat was observed and the clinical tolerance was excellent. 6. In normal volunteers, cilazapril administered orally acts as a potent inhibitor of converting enzyme. PMID- 2527535 TI - A pharmacokinetic study of cilazapril in elderly and young volunteers. AB - 1. Cilazaprilat is an inhibitor of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) and is the active metabolite of cilazapril. The pharmacokinetics of cilazaprilat, and the inhibition of plasma ACE were investigated in 12 elderly and 12 young healthy volunteers. 2. Single oral 1 mg doses of cilazapril were given to the elderly (age range 65-83 years) and the young (age range 18-31 years) in an open study. Plasma and urinary cilazaprilat concentrations, and plasma ACE activities were measured up to 72 h after dosing by radioenzymatic methods. 3. Cilazapril was well tolerated in both young and elderly subjects. Small falls in blood pressure were observed up to 8-24 h after dosing. 4. The mean peak plasma cilazaprilat concentration in the elderly (11.5 ng ml-1) was significantly greater (P less than 0.02) than the corresponding value in the young (8.3 ng ml-1). Total and renal clearances were significantly lower (both P less than 0.05) in the elderly (12.8 and 5.11 h-1) than in the young (16.0 and 7.21 h-1). Total urinary recovery of cilazaprilat was similar for the two groups at about 43% of dose. 5. Plasma ACE inhibition was slightly greater in the elderly but the mean inhibition in the two groups did not differ by more than 10% at any time-point from 1-72 h. 6. The plasma concentrations of cilazaprilat required for 90% ACE inhibition were similar at 4.7 and 4.8 ng ml-1 in the elderly and young respectively. 7. It is concluded that the age-related changes in cilazaprilat kinetics and in the degree of ACE inhibition are small.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527534 TI - The influence of food on the pharmacokinetics and ACE inhibition of cilazapril. AB - 1. The influence of food on the pharmacokinetics and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory effects of oral 5 mg doses of cilazapril was investigated in a two-way crossover study in 16 volunteers. 2. Plasma and urine concentrations of cilazaprilat, the active diacid metabolite of cilazapril, and plasma ACE activity were determined by a radio-enzymatic method. 3. Cmax decreased by 30% (P less than 0.05) with a delay in (t)max of 1 h (P less than 0.05) and area under curve (AUC) was decreased by 14% (P less than 0.05). The elimination rate was unaltered. 4. Onset of ACE inhibition was delayed by approximately 30 min but degree and duration were unaffected. 5. The effect of food on the bioavailability of cilazapril at this dose would not be expected to be clinically significant. PMID- 2527536 TI - The effects of cilazapril alone and in combination with frusemide in healthy subjects. AB - 1. In a fourway double-blind placebo controlled study, the effects of cilazapril, a new angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor, on renal function and the responses to intravenous frusemide were studied in a group of twelve salt depleted male volunteers. 2. Cilazapril produced an increase in effective renal plasma flow and urinary output of prostaglandin E2 metabolite (PGE2-M) but no effect on sodium, potassium or water excretion. 3. Pretreatment with cilazapril antagonised the effects of frusemide on glomerular filtration, PGE2-M and sodium excretion. PMID- 2527537 TI - The effect of acute ACE inhibition on atrial natriuretic peptide. AB - 1. The effect of acute angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition on the plasma concentrations of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) was investigated in a single-blind placebo controlled crossover study in healthy volunteers. 2. Intravenous infusion of 2 mg cilazaprilat resulted in a significant and short lasting inhibition of ACE as evidenced by a decrease of plasma angiotensin II and an increase in plasma renin activity. 3. When compared with placebo cilazaprilat lowered diastolic pressure and increased heart rate significantly. 4. No effect of cilazaprilat was found on plasma ANP levels, suggesting that angiotensin II does not mediate ANP release. PMID- 2527538 TI - Influence of cilazapril on memory functions and sleep behaviour in comparison with metoprolol and placebo in healthy subjects. AB - 1. In a controlled, randomized, double-blind study the influence of cilazapril and metoprolol on learning and memory functions and on sleep behaviour was investigated in healthy young volunteers under steady-state conditions. Twenty three subjects were given either 2.5 mg cilazapril, 200 mg metoprolol, or placebo for 14 days in a latin square design separated by washout periods of 7 days. 2. To test memory functions different modalities--verbal, visual, numerical associative and two dimensional spatial memory were tested for recent anterograde recall, both short-term (less than 10 s) and middle-term (up to 15 min) were selected. The test had a content similar to that used in daily life situations. The sleep behaviour was tested both by objective (all night sleep EEG) and subjective measures. 3. Neither antihypertensive drug had an observable influence on memory performance at the dosages used under steady-state conditions. However, sleep was disturbed during metoprolol, while cilazapril could not be differentiated from placebo. The effects of metoprolol on sleep behaviour were observed in the objective and subjective measures. There was more frequent awakening during the night with the subjective complaint of difficulties in sleeping through. 4. From this study it is concluded that cilazapril has no major effect on memory functions and sleep behaviour. This is only true for the dosages given and under steady-state conditions. PMID- 2527539 TI - Pharmacokinetics of cilazapril in patients with renal failure. AB - 1. The pharmacokinetics of a single 1 mg dose of cilazapril were determined in six subjects with normal renal function and in 19 uraemic patients with various degrees of renal impairment. 2. Significant decreases in systolic and diastolic blood pressure were noted in all groups of subjects between 2 and 8 h after administration of 1 mg cilazapril. 3. There was a significant correlation between ACE inhibition at 24 h and creatinine clearance (CrCL). 4. For cilazapril, Cmax and tmax were independent of creatinine clearance. AUC(24) was inversely related to CrCL and apparent plasma clearance (CL/F) was directly related to CrCL. 5. For cilazaprilat, Cmax and tmax were related to creatinine clearance. AUC(24) was inversely related to CrCl and apparent plasma clearance (CL/F) was directly related to CrCL. 6. Dialysis clearance was approximately 2 l h-1 for cilazapril and for cilazaprilat. 7. The effects of renal impairment on cilazapril and cilazaprilat kinetics were similar to those observed for other inhibitors of angiotensin-converting enzyme such as captopril, enalapril and lisinopril. 8. It may be necessary to modify doses of cilazapril for the treatment of essential hypertension in uraemic patients. When creatinine clearance was below 15 ml min-1 cilazaprilat concentrations were increased, half-lives were prolonged and ACE inhibition remained above 90% for at least 24 h. A reduced dosage is indicated for these patients. 9. In patients requiring haemodialysis, maintenance doses of 0.5 mg given after each haemodialysis session are sufficient. PMID- 2527540 TI - Antihypertensive effects and pharmacokinetics of single and consecutive doses of cilazapril in hypertensive patients with normal or impaired renal function. AB - 1. A 1.25 mg dose of cilazapril, a new angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, was administered orally to two groups of hypertensive patients, five with normal renal function (NRF) and seven with impaired renal function (IRF), once daily for 5 or 8 consecutive days. Blood pressure, heart rate and serum ACE activity were measured up to 24 h following the initial and the last dose. Plasma level profiles of cilazapril and its active diacid were also evaluated on the first and the last day of treatment. 2. Cilazapril induced significant falls in both systolic and diastolic blood pressures without increasing heart rate. The antihypertensive effect was evident within 1 h after drug administration and was sustained for up to 24 h, particularly after consecutive dosing. 3. Serum ACE activity was markedly suppressed over 24 h. The recovery of ACE activity was delayed in the IRF group when compared with the NRF group. 4. Plasma concentrations of the active diacid in the IRF group were higher than in the NRF group with significant differences in the peak concentrations and area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC). The plasma concentration profile for the parent drug was similar for both the NRF and IRF groups. 5. A significant inverse correlation was found between the creatinine clearance and the AUC for the diacid. 6. Cilazapril is a potent ACE inhibitor with a prolonged duration of antihypertensive effect and is a useful agent for controlling blood pressure in hypertensives either with NRF or IRF. In patients with severe renal impairment the dose of cilazapril should be reduced. PMID- 2527541 TI - Antihypertensive effects of nitrendipine and cilazapril alone, and in combination in hypertensive patients with chronic renal failure. AB - 1. It has been reported that calcium antagonists lower blood pressure more effectively in salt replete hypertensive patients with a low plasma renin activity (PRA), whereas angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are more effective in salt depleted patients with a high level of PRA. An inverse relationship between the antihypertensive effects of these two groups of drugs might therefore be expected. 2. Since salt retention and inappropriately high levels of PRA are said to contribute to hypertension in patients with chronic renal failure (CRF), an additive antihypertensive effect with both drugs might also be expected in such patients. 3. To test these hypotheses, we investigated the acute and chronic antihypertensive effects of the calcium antagonist nitrendipine and the new ACE inhibitor cilazapril, given alone, and in combination, in a double-blind, randomized, placebo controlled study of 11 hypertensive patients with chronic renal failure who had a mean pretreatment blood pressure of 149 +/- 3/96 +/- 2 mm Hg. Patients received nitrendipine 10 mg, cilazapril 1.25 or 2.5 mg depending on creatinine clearance, or placebo once daily orally. Nitrendipine and cilazapril were also combined at the same doses. 4. Nitrendipine and cilazapril were equally effective, with a maximal acute reduction of mean arterial pressure (MAP) of 5.3 +/- 1.8% and 8.0 +/- 1.9%, and after 1 week of treatment 5.0 +/- 2.4% and 8.1 +/- 1.8%, respectively. In individual patients no inverse relationship between the blood pressure responses to the two drugs was found.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527542 TI - The influence of prostaglandin inhibition by indomethacin on blood pressure and renal function in hypertensive patients treated with cilazapril. AB - 1. In a placebo-controlled double-blind cross-over study lasting 6 weeks, twenty patients with essential hypertension were treated with placebo for 2 weeks followed by oral cilazapril 2.5 mg once a day or oral indomethacin 50 mg twice daily for 2 weeks. Afterwards they received the combination of both drugs for a further 2 weeks. 2. Cilazapril significantly lowered systolic and diastolic blood pressure for a period of 24 h post administration. 3. Indomethacin significantly attenuated the antihypertensive activity of cilazapril. This was more pronounced in those patients who were treated for the initial 2 weeks with indomethacin plus placebo (and subsequently with cilazapril in addition) than in the subjects who first received cilazapril plus placebo and then the combination. 4. Correspondingly the decrease of plasma renin activity (PRA) and urinary prostaglandin excretion (PGE2) was more pronounced in those patients treated initially with indomethacin. 5. The effect of indomethacin on the antihypertensive effect of cilazapril appears to depend upon the sequence of drug administration. PMID- 2527543 TI - The influence of cilazapril on indices of autonomic function in normotensives and hypertensives. AB - 1. In two single dose studies, acute blood pressure reduction with cilazapril was not associated with any significant change in supine or erect heart rate in either normotensives or hypertensives. 2. To investigate the lack of reflex cardioacceleration, a series of autonomic function tests was undertaken when there was maximum ACE inhibition, maximum evidence of angiotensin II withdrawal and the lowest blood pressure. 3. There was no evidence that cilazapril had any significant impact on indices of sympathetic nervous activity or the integrity of baroreflex mechanisms. 4. The results for the bradycardic response to apnoeic facial immersion, suggested enhanced parasympathetic activity, consistent with the withdrawal of the vagolytic actions of angiotensin II. 5. These results suggest that the absence of a heart rate response to ACE inhibition is not related to a profound sympatho-inhibitory effect or an impairment of baroreflex function. While there is some evidence of enhanced cardiac parasympathetic tone it seems unlikely that this is the sole explanation for the lack of cardioacceleration. PMID- 2527545 TI - Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions between the ACE inhibitor cilazapril and beta-adrenoceptor antagonist propranolol in healthy subjects and in hypertensive patients. AB - 1. Six healthy subjects received cilazapril (2.5 mg once daily), propranolol (120 mg once daily), the combination of both and placebo for a period of 1 week each (wash-out phase 1 week). 2. Propranolol and cilazapril reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP) by 7 mm Hg at peak when compared with placebo. However after the combination, this reduction was more than doubled (18 mm Hg) and lasted longer. 3. There was a trend to lower and later peak concentrations for both drugs after administration of the combination. No clinically relevant pharmacokinetic interactions between cilazapril and propranolol were found. 4. The effects on blood pressure were confirmed in hypertensive patients (BP diastolic greater than 95 mm Hg). Thirteen patients were randomly allocated cilazapril (2.5 mg day-1) or propranolol (120 mg day-1] as part of a cross-over design. This was then followed by the combination. All treatment periods were of 3 weeks duration and all measurements were done 2 h after drug administration. 5. Cilazapril lowered the median sitting diastolic BP by 8 mm Hg, and propranolol by 9 mm Hg, whereas the combination reduced the diastolic BP by 19 mm Hg. 6. The results of these studies, attempting to elucidate drug-drug interactions, showed that combined use of propranolol and cilazapril resulted in a more pronounced and longer lasting blood pressure reduction, in healthy subjects and in patients with hypertension. PMID- 2527544 TI - Haemodynamic and hormonal effects of cilazapril in comparison with propranolol in healthy subjects and in hypertensive patients. AB - 1. The purpose of the present studies was to compare the pharmacodynamic profile of the new ACE inhibitor cilazapril with the beta-adrenoceptor antagonist propranolol in healthy subjects and in hypertensive patients. 2. Hormonal and haemodynamic responses at rest and after pharmacological interventions with angiotensin I and isoprenaline were investigated in six healthy volunteers following a 1 week treatment with placebo, propranolol (120 mg day-1) and cilazapril (2.5 mg day-1) in a double-blind cross over design with a wash-out period of 1 week between the different treatments. 3. Cilazapril induced a pronounced increase of plasma renin activity and angiotensin I concentrations, whereas after propranolol both parameters decreased. After both compounds slight decreases in angiotensin II concentrations were found. After the pharmacological challenges with angiotensin I and isoprenaline specific effects of the ACE inhibitor and beta-adrenoceptor blocker were found respectively. 4. Seventeen hypertensive patients received after a 2 week placebo period in random order cilazapril (2.5 mg day-1) or propranolol (120 mg day-1) for 3 weeks. A cross over design switched the patients to the other treatment. On the last day of each treatment period blood pressure, heart rate, cardiac output and total peripheral resistance were determined at rest and during handgrip test. In addition, bicycle exercise test was done and blood lactate concentrations were determined. 5. At rest blood pressure was lowered by both drugs, but total peripheral resistance increased after propranolol and decreased after cilazapril. After hand grip test, blood pressure was lowered after both drugs, but peripheral resistance decreased only after cilazapril.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527546 TI - Pharmacokinetics and effects on renal function following cilazapril and hydrochlorothiazide alone and in combination in healthy subjects and hypertensive patients. AB - 1. Possible interactions between cilazapril and hydrochlorothiazide with respect to pharmacokinetics and renal effects were investigated in healthy subjects (single dose) and in hypertensive patients (multiple dosing). 2. No significant pharmacokinetic interaction was found between cilazapril and hydrochlorothiazide. 3. Cilazapril showed weak saluretic properties as compared with hydrochlorothiazide, but increased the saluretic effects of hydrochlorothiazide. 4. Cilazapril attenuated the hypokalaemia observed with hydrochlorothiazide in hypertensive patients. 5. The effect on blood pressure reduction obtained from the combination of cilazapril and hydrochlorothiazide lasted longer than that of cilazapril alone. PMID- 2527547 TI - An experimental collagen-impregnated Dacron graft: potential for endothelial seeding. AB - This study evaluates the potential for endothelial seeding of a collagen impregnated Dacron graft with or without surface modifiers (fibronectin, heparin) to attach and retain these cells during flow. Human umbilical endothelial cells were harvested, cultured, labeled with Indium111-oxine and seeded onto 30 mm X 4 mm diameter grafts. Six graft surfaces were studied: 1) a collagen-impregnated Dacron graft, HemashieldR (C); 2) C + fibronectin (C + F); 3) C + heparin (C + H); 4) C + F + H; 5) HytrelR + F (Hyt + F); and 6) Hyt + F + H. Radioactive loss determined the percentage attachment and then percentage retention of labeled inoculum after a one-hour in vitro perfusion. Scanning electron and light microscopy demonstrated the endothelium on the graft surface following perfusion. Fibronectin-coated grafts had a significantly higher percentage attachment than those without fibronectin (ANOVA, P less than 0.05). However, the percentage retention following perfusion was similar for all Dacron grafts and statistically inferior to the HytrelR grafts studied (ANOVA, P less than 0.05). SEM evaluation of the C + F + H graft surface was qualitatively the most impressive Dacron surface for seeding, yet was inferior to the HytrelR graft. We conclude that fibronectin benefits the initial attachment of endothelium to collagen-coated Dacron rivaling the HytrelR surface. Fibronectin does not improve percentage retention of the HemashieldR surface during perfusion, therefore, some of its initial benefit is lost. PMID- 2527548 TI - Aortoappendicular fistula after aortoiliac prosthetic replacement. AB - A 48-year-old patient who had had an aortofemoral reconstruction with a Dacron graft nine years earlier presented with intestinal bleeding. At laparotomy the cause was found to be a fistula between a proximal false aneurysm and the vermiform appendix. The patient recovered after removal of the graft and extraanatomic revascularization associated with appendectomy. Four other similar case reports have been found in the literature. PMID- 2527549 TI - Response to endocrine manipulation and oestrogen receptor concentration in large operable primary breast cancer. AB - Forty-three patients with large (greater than or equal to 4 cm) but operable carcinoma of the breast have been treated by endocrine manipulation before definitive local surgery. This has allowed the study of the relationship between response to therapy and pretreatment oestrogen receptor (ER) concentration, as measured by a dextran-coated charcoal adsorption method. Premenopausal patients (17) were treated by surgical (4) or medical (13) oophorectomy. Post-menopausal patients (26) received either tamoxifen (10) or an aromatase inhibitor (16). Response was assessed from statistical analysis of the changes in tumour size. On completion of 12 weeks of endocrine therapy, there was significant regression of tumour size in 18 of the 43 patients. All 18 patients had tumours with ER concentrations of greater than or equal to 20 fmol mg-1 cytosol protein. Conversely all patients except one progressing on treatment had tumours with ER concentrations of less than 20 fmol mg-1 cytosol protein. This relationship applied for both premenopausal and post-menopausal patients. The overall response rate of patients with tumours of ER concentration greater than or equal to 20 fmol mg-1 cytosol protein was 60%. PMID- 2527550 TI - Murine mercury-induced immune-complex disease: effect of cyclophosphamide treatment and importance of T-cells. AB - The renal immune-complex (IC) disease induced in BALB/c mice by subcutaneous injection of mercuric chloride (1.6 mg/kg b.w.) every third day for 8 weeks was prevented by the intraperitoneal injection of cyclophosphamide (20 mg/kg b.w.) 24 h prior to mercury injection. The importance of T-cells in the induction of immune-complex disease was studied. BALB/c mice given drinking water containing 20 mg/l of HgCl2 for 10 weeks showed an increased titre of granular, mesangial IgG deposits and vessel wall IgG deposits. Identically treated, congenic nude BALB/c mice with a similar body burden of mercury developed no IC-disease. Cytophotometric analysis of the T-cell subsets in subcutaneously mercury-treated mice revealed a decrease in the fraction of T-helper (L3T4+) splenic cells in the SJL and C57BL/6J strains; no significant change in the T-cell subsets was found in BALB/c mice. C57BL/6J mice, resistant to induction of IC-disease by mercury, showed no increase in the fraction of T-suppressor/cytotoxic (Lyt-2+) cells and no change in the T-helper/T-suppressor cell ratio. C57BL/6J mice could not be rendered susceptible to mercury-induced IC-disease by treatment with different doses of cyclophosphamide. PMID- 2527551 TI - Adult T cell leukaemia cells are of CD4+ CDw29+ T cell origin and secrete a B cell differentiation factor. AB - Cells from six cases of adult T cell leukaemia were studied with respect to phenotypical and functional features. All cells were reactive with anti-CD4 and anti-CDw29 monoclonal antibodies (antibody against helper inducer T cells) but were unreactive with anti-CD45R monoclonal antibody (antibody against suppressor inducer T cells). Functionally, these cells secreted a B cell differentiation factor detected by SKW6-CL4 cell differentiation to IgM-producing cells, this secretion being enhanced by culture with recombinant IL-2. Though these results indicate that adult T cell leukaemia cells are of mature helper inducer T cell origin, these cells strongly suppressed PWM-induced B cell differentiation in the absence of CD8+ suppressor effector T cells. PMID- 2527552 TI - Protein S in the first year of life. AB - Total protein S, free protein S and C4b binding protein were measured in healthy term infants in order to establish the normal levels of these proteins during the first year of life. Total protein S rose from 36.5% of the adult mean level on day 1 of life to 90% between 6 and 12 months of age. Free protein S was 54.2% of the adult mean on day 1 of life, all values were in the adult range by 2 months and the mean value was no different from the adult at 4 months. This relatively high level of free and presumably active protein S reflects low levels of C4bBP at birth (28.8% of the adult mean) and a slow postnatal rise. PMID- 2527553 TI - On the diagnosis of erythrocyte enzyme defects in the presence of high reticulocyte counts. AB - The separation of red blood cells into reticulocytes and young and old erythrocytes enables investigations of fractions with different contents of reticulocytes. Activities of hexokinase, glucose phosphate isomerase, phosphofructokinase, pyruvate kinase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase showed a linear relationship to reticulocyte counts. The dependence of these enzyme activities on the age of the red blood cells exhibited a strong decline from the reticulocyte to the young erythrocyte stage followed by only little further loss of activity, thus leading to a biphasic decay of enzyme activities. By linear regression analysis enzyme activities in erythrocytes (AE) and reticulocytes (AR) could be evaluated. The activity of a given enzyme in the reticulocyte exceeded that of the erythrocyte; the quotient AR/AE represents the decline of enzyme activity from the reticulocyte to the erythrocyte stage. This value AR/AE is 16.7 for pyruvate kinase and 9.4 for hexokinase and thus considerably higher than that for the other enzymes investigated (glucose phosphate isomerase: 2.9, phosphofructokinase: 4.3, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase: 4.5). In patients suffering from erythrocyte enzymopathies, the AR/AE for pyruvate kinase was 16.2 and thus almost identical to the normal enzyme. Calibration curves where the enzyme activity is plotted versus the fraction of reticulocytes enable the determination of normal activity of a given erythrocyte enzyme depending on the content of reticulocytes in red blood cell suspensions. Thus an unambiguous diagnosis of enzyme defects irrespective of reticulocyte counts becomes possible. PMID- 2527554 TI - The diagnosis of polycystic ovaries in subfertile women. AB - Laparoscopy was used to identify the polycystic ovary (PCO) in a group of subfertile women. A third were found to have PCO. These patients had higher levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone (T) and a higher free androgen index (FAI) than those with normal ovaries. Only 15% of patients with laparoscopic evidence of PCO were obese, hirsute and oligomenorrhoeic. Within the PCO group, hirsutism was strongly associated with obesity and a high FAI. A group of subfertile women with PCO and regular cycles was found who had no other identifiable cause for their infertility. These women had higher follicular phase concentrations of LH and higher FAI than ovulatory women with normal ovaries. PMID- 2527555 TI - Sequence-dependent termination of bacteriophage T7 transcription in vitro by DNA binding drugs. AB - An in vitro T7 bacteriophage transcription system has been utilized in which the RNA was initiated to a specific length (defined by the absence of the appropriate nucleoside triphosphate). When the DNA-RNA-RNA polymerase ternary complex was exposed to nonsaturating levels of DNA-binding ligands (i.e., a small fractional occupancy at each site), and the RNA transcript then allowed to elongate in the presence of all four nucleoside triphosphates, there was a synchronous increase of RNA lengths up to sites occupied by ligands. A unique characteristic is that bacteriophage transcription was completely terminated at every ligand site, in contrast to bacterial RNA polymerases where "read-through" past drug sites occurs and results merely in a delay of transcription at each site due primarily to dissociation of drug from the DNA. Similar termination of transcription at each drug site was observed with T3 and SP6 RNA polymerases. The termination at drug sites in the bacteriophage system results in RNA of specific lengths which define the location of ligand sites, and the RNA concentration provides a measure of relative ligand occupancy at that site. Termination of transcription was observed with four drugs with relatively long DNA residence times (half-life greater than or equal to 300 s at 20 degrees C for nogalamycin, actinomycin, mithramycin, and echinomycin) but to a lesser extent with drugs of intermediate residence times [a bis(thiadaunomycin) and an acridine-tripyrrole, with half-lives of 230 and 7 s, respectively, at 20 degrees C] PMID- 2527556 TI - Oxygen transfer from the nitro group of a nitroaromatic radiosensitizer to a DNA sugar damage product. AB - Mechanisms based on one-electron oxidation appear incomplete in explaining cellular radiosensitization by nitroaromatic compounds such as misonidazole. Evidence is presented for a novel mechanism that may be involved in enhancing DNA strand breakage due to a variety of agents, including ionizing radiation, that generate carbon-centered radicals on DNA deoxyribose. Under anaerobic conditions the carbon-centered radical generated selectively at C-5' of deoxyribose of thymidylate residues in DNA by the antitumor antibiotic neocarzinostatin reacts with misonidazole to produce a DNA damage product in the form of 3'-(formyl phosphate)-ended DNA. In an 18O-transfer experiment we find that the carbonyl oxygen of the activated formyl moiety (trapped as formyl-Tris) is derived from the nitro group oxygen of misonidazole. This result strongly supports a mechanism in which a nitroxide radical adduct, formed by the addition of misonidazole to the radical at C-5' of deoxyribose, cleaves between the N and O so as to form an oxy radical precursor of the formyl moiety and a two-electron reduction species of misonidazole. PMID- 2527557 TI - ATP synthase from bovine mitochondria: complementary DNA sequence of the import precursor of a heart isoform of the alpha subunit. AB - The alpha-subunit of ATP synthase from mitochondria is a major component of the extrinsic membrane sector of the enzyme. It is encoded in nuclear DNA. A family of overlapping complementary DNA clones encoding its precursor has been isolated from a bovine library by using in the first instance a mixture of 128 synthetic oligonucleotides designed on the basis of the known protein sequence, and the sequence of the full-length cDNA has been determined. The deduced protein sequence shows that the alpha-subunit of ATP synthase has a presequence of 43 amino acids that is not present in the mature protein. Presumably it directs the protein into the mitochondrial matrix and is removed during the import process. The encoded protein sequence is also longer by one amino acid at its C-terminal end than the protein isolated from F1-ATPase, but this alanine residue may have been removed artifactually during release of the F1-ATPase particle from the inner mitochondrial membrane. With the exception of one uncertainty caused by an ambiguity at one position in the nucleotide sequence, the mature protein sequence encoded in the cDNA is exactly the same as the sequence determined previously by direct analysis of the protein isolated from bovine heart mitochondria [Walker et al. (1985) J. Mol. Biol. 184, 677-701]. The cDNA sequence differs in 158 nucleotides over a region of alignment of 1097 nucleotides from a partial cDNA for the alpha-subunit that has been isolated from a bovine cDNA derived from liver RNA [Breen (1988) Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 152, 264-269].(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527558 TI - Calcium transport by sarcoplasmic reticulum of skeletal muscle is inhibited by antibodies against the 53-kilodalton glycoprotein of the sarcoplasmic reticulum membrane. AB - The effects of an antiserum against the 53-kDa glycoprotein (GP-53) of the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) and of monoclonal antibodies against GP-53 on Ca2+ transport and ATP hydrolysis by SR of rabbit skeletal muscle have been investigated. Preincubation of SR with an antiserum against GP-53 resulted in decreased ATP-driven Ca2+ transport by the SR but had no effect on Ca2+ stimulated ATP hydrolysis. Preincubation of SR with preimmune serum had no significant effect on either Ca2+ transport or Ca2+-ATPase activity. The effect of anti-GP-53 serum was time and concentration dependent. Preincubation of SR with two monoclonal antibodies against GP-53 had no effect on Ca2+ transport or on Ca2+-stimulated ATP hydrolysis. However, preincubation of SR with either monoclonal antibody against GP-53 together with a monoclonal antibody against the Ca2+-ATPase (at levels which had little effect alone) resulted in markedly decreased rates of Ca2+ uptake and ATP hydrolysis. Preincubation of SR with anti GP-53-serum or with monoclonal antibodies, under the same conditions that inhibited Ca2+ uptake, did not increase the passive permeability of the SR membrane to Ca2+, did not decrease the permeability of the SR to oxalate, and did not cause significant proteolysis of the Ca2+-ATPase. Our results are consistent with the interpretation that GP-53 may modulate the function of the Ca2+-ATPase of the SR membrane. PMID- 2527559 TI - Determination of the secondary structure of the DNA binding protein Ner from phage Mu using 1H homonuclear and 15N-1H heteronuclear NMR spectroscopy. AB - The sequential resonance assignment of the 1H and 15N NMR spectra of the DNA binding protein Ner from phage Mu is presented. This is carried out by using a combination of 1H-1H and 1H-15N two-dimensional experiments. The availability of completely labeled 15N protein enabled us to record a variety of relayed heteronuclear multiple quantum coherence experiments, thereby enabling the correlation of proton-proton through-space and through-bond connectivities with the chemical shift of the directly bonded 15N atom. These heteronuclear experiments were crucial for the sequential assignment as the proton chemical shift dispersion of the Ner protein is limited and substantial overlap precluded unambiguous assignment of the homonuclear spectra in several cases. From a qualitative interpretation of the NOE data involving the NH, C alpha H, and C beta H protons, it is shown that Ner is composed of five helices extending from residues 11 to 22, 27 to 34, 38 to 45, 50 to 60, and 63 to 73. PMID- 2527560 TI - Coupling factor 1 from Escherichia coli lacking subunits delta and epsilon: preparation and specific binding to depleted membranes, mediated by subunits delta or epsilon. AB - A procedure for the preparation of coupling factor 1 (F1) from Escherichia coli lacking subunits delta and epsilon is described. Using chloroform and dimethyl sulfoxide, we can isolate F1 containing only subunits alpha, beta, and gamma [F1(alpha beta gamma)] directly from membrane vesicles in 10-mg quantities. Pure and active subunits delta and epsilon were prepared from five-subunit F1 by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. After addition of these subunits, F1(alpha beta gamma) is as active in reconstituting ATP-dependent transhydrogenase as five-subunit F1. The ATPase activity of F1 (alpha beta gamma) is inhibited by subunit epsilon in a 1:1 stoichiometry to the same extent (approximately equal to 90%) and with the same affinity (Ki = 0.2-0.8 nM) as reported earlier [Dunn, S.D. (1982) J. Biol. Chem. 257, 7354-7359]. In the presence of either delta or epsilon, F1(alpha beta gamma) binds to F1-depleted membrane vesicles and to liposomes containing the membrane sector (F0) of the ATP synthase to an extent commensurate with the F0 content. The binding ratios epsilon/F1 (alpha beta gamma) and probably also delta/F1 (alpha beta gamma) are close to unity. The specific, delta- or epsilon-deficient F1.F0 complexes presumably formed show ATPase activities sensitive to subunit epsilon but not to dicyclohexylcarbodiimide, and no energy-transfer capabilities. Binding studies at different pH values suggest that F1-F0 interactions in the presence of both subunits delta and epsilon are similar to a combination of those mediated by delta or epsilon alone.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527561 TI - Steady-state catecholamine distribution in chromaffin granule preparations: a test of the pump-leak hypothesis of general anesthesia. AB - The molecular mechanism of general anesthesia is not understood. Possible modes of action include binding at a protein site, such as a receptor or channel, or physical effects on membrane lipid properties. The pump-leak hypothesis suggests that anesthetics perturb the bilayer of synaptic vesicles, thereby increasing ionic permeability. This results in decay of proton gradients required for transport and accumulation of neurotransmitters. The subsequent loss of neurotransmitters from synaptic vesicles reduces the efficiency of synaptic transmission and results in the anesthetized state. We have determined the effects of general anesthetics on certain parameters of enzyme activity and membrane permeability relevant to the pump-leak hypothesis. We used chromaffin granules as a convenient model system and focused on clinically relevant anesthetic concentrations (ED50), quantitative measurements of permeability changes, and the kinetics of gradient decay. General anesthetics at ED50 have little or no effect on the proton-transport ATPase activity, but do cause modest increments in proton permeability that change the catecholamine distribution in actively pumping chromaffin granule preparations. We found that pH gradients do not collapse entirely under these conditions and that only a fraction of total catecholamine is lost from the chromaffin granules. When total collapse is induced by other means, efflux of catecholamines occurs with a half-time near 30 min. These results suggest that if the pump-leak hypothesis is valid, then very small losses of catecholamines must be sufficient to induce anesthesia. We conclude that the weight of evidence favors other mechanisms, notably direct binding of anesthetics to sensitive proteins. PMID- 2527562 TI - Temperature-induced states of isolated F1-ATPase affect catalysis, enzyme conformation and high-affinity nucleotide binding sites. AB - Isolated, nucleotide-depleted bovine-heart F1-ATPase exhibits a break in Arrhenius plot with a 2.7-fold increase in activation energy of ATP hydrolysis below 18-19 degrees C. Analysis of intrinsic tyrosine fluorescence and of the circular dichroism of F1-ATPase showed an abrupt and reversible conformational change occurring at the break temperature, characteristic of a structural tightening at low temperature. Analysis of catalytic nucleotide binding sites using fluorescent ADP analog, 3'-O-(1-naphthoyl)adenosine diphosphate did not show any significant change in affinity of nucleotide binding around the transition temperature but the bound fluorophore exerted a more restricted motion and slower rotation at temperature below the break, indicating a change in the mobility of groups in the close neighbourhood. It is concluded that, as a result of temperature, two kinetically distinct states of F1-ATPase are induced, due to a change in enzyme conformation, which influences directly the properties of catalytic nucleotide binding sites. PMID- 2527563 TI - Effect of lipid peroxidation on membrane-bound Ca2+-ATPase activity of the intestinal brush-border membranes. AB - We have studied lipid peroxidation and Ca2+-ATPase activity of the porcine intestinal brush-border membranes using a oxygen-radical-generating system consisting of dithiothreitol (DTT)/Fe2+ and tert-butyl hydroperoxide (t-BuOOH). The rates of lipid peroxidation were measured by formation of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBAR) and conjugated diene. Incubation of the membranes with DTT/Fe2+ in the absence and presence of t-BuOOH resulted in a slight (about 20%) and a marked (about 50%) inhibition of Ca2+-ATPase activity, respectively. The degree of inhibition was dependent on the hydroperoxide concentration. Addition of thiourea effectively protected Ca2+-ATPase activity but catalase and superoxide dismutase showed a slight and no effect on protection of the ATPase activity, respectively. Results of kinetic studies on the ATPase activity with varying ATP and Ca2+ concentrations revealed that the decrease in the enzyme activity by treatment with these oxidizing agents is mainly due to decrease of the Vmax value. Modification of SH groups in the membrane proteins by thiol group reagents such as N-ethylmaleimide, monoiodoacetate and monoiodacetamide did not induce the inhibition of Ca2+-ATPase activity. From these results, it is suggested that inhibition of the ATPase activity of the membranes by treatment with DTT/Fe2+ in the presence and absence of t-BuOOH is dependent on lipid peroxidation and that oxidative modification of SH groups may not be directly involved to the loss of the ATPase activity. In addition, results of the fluorescence anisotropy measurements of pyrene-labeled membranes suggested that change in the Ca2+-ATPase activity is partly related to a decrease in the membrane lipid fluidity. PMID- 2527564 TI - Effect of phosphonoformic acid, dietary phosphate and the Hyp mutation on kinetically distinct phosphate transport processes in mouse kidney. AB - We examined the kinetics of phosphate transport in mouse renal brush-border membrane vesicles under initial rate (6 s), trans zero, voltage clamp conditions. Two kinetically distinct Na+-dependent phosphate transport processes were identified: a high-affinity, low-capacity system (Km, 0.09 +/- 0.02 mM; Vmax, 539 +/- 50 pmol/mg protein per 6 s) and a low-affinity, high-capacity system (Km, 1.28 +/- 0.35 mM; Vmax, 1677 +/- 198 pmol/mg protein per 6 s). The high-affinity system was inhibited competitively by 1 mM phosphonoformic acid (PFA) (apparent Ki, 0.31 +/- 0.03 mM) and completely abolished by 20 mM PFA; the low-affinity system was insensitive to 1 mM PFA and was inhibited competitively by 20 mM PFA (apparent Ki, 9.03 +/- 1.21 mM). Dietary phosphate deprivation elicited a significant increase in Vmax of both high- and low-affinity phosphate transport systems whereas the X-linked Hyp mutation caused a 50% decrease in Vmax of the high-affinity system with no change in the low-affinity system. Phosphate deprivation of Hyp mice elicited a 3.5-fold increase in Vmax of the high-affinity system. Neither diet nor mutation significantly altered the apparent Km values of either phosphate transport process. We conclude that (1) mouse kidney brush border membranes have two distinct Na+-dependent phosphate transport systems which differ in affinity and capacity; (2) both processes participate in the adaptive response to dietary phosphate restriction; (3) only the high-affinity system is impaired by the X-linked Hyp mutation. PMID- 2527566 TI - Stereospecificity of C4 nicotinamide hydrogen transfer of the NADP-dependent glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase. AB - The stereospecificity of the reaction catalysed by the spinach chloroplast enzyme NADP-dependent glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (D-glyceraldehyde-3 phosphate: NADP+ oxidoreductase (phosphorylating), EC 1.2.1.13) with respect to the C4 nicotinamide hydrogen transfer was investigated. NADPH deuterated at the C4 HA position was synthesized using aldehyde dehydrogenase. 1H-NMR spectroscopy was used to examine the NADP+ product of the GPDH reaction for the presence or absence of the C4 deuterium atom. Chloroplast NADP-dependent glyceraldehyde-3 phosphate dehydrogenase retains the deuterium at the C4 HA position (removing the hydrogen atom), and is therefore a B (pro-S) specific dehydrogenase. PMID- 2527565 TI - Secondary structure of detergent-solubilized phospholamban, a phosphorylatable, oligomeric protein of cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum. AB - The structure of phospholamban, a 30-kDa oligomeric protein integral to cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum, was probed using ultraviolet absorbance and circular dichroism spectroscopy. Purified phospholamban was examined in three detergents: octyl glucoside, n-dodecyloctaethylene glycol monoether (C12E8) and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS). Ultraviolet absorption spectra of phospholamban reflected its aromatic amino acid content: absorption peaks at 275-277 nm and 253, 259, 265 and 268 nm were attributed to phospholamban's one tyrosine and two phenylalanines, respectively. Phospholamban phosphorylated at serine 16 by the catalytic subunit of cAMP-dependent protein kinase exhibited no absorbance changes when examined in C12E8 or SDS. Circular dichroism spectroscopy at 250-190 nm demonstrated that phospholamban possesses a very high content of alpha-helix in all three detergents and is unusually resistant to denaturation. Dissociation of phospholamban subunits by boiling in SDS increased the helical content, suggesting that the highly ordered structure is not dependent upon oligomeric interactions. The purified COOH-terminal tryptic fragment of phospholamban, containing residues 26-52 and comprising the hydrophobic, putative membrane spanning domain, also exhibited a circular dichroism spectrum characteristic of alpha-helix. Circular dichroism spectra of phosphorylated and dephosphorylated phospholamban were very similar, indicating that phosphorylation does not alter phospholamban secondary structure significantly. The results are consistent with a two-domain model of phospholamban in which each domain contains a helix and phosphorylation may act to rotate one domain relative to the other. PMID- 2527567 TI - [Molecular biological mechanisms of photodynamic therapy]. AB - The biological mechanisms of photodynamic therapy, a new approach to the treatment of malignant lesions, are considered. The data on chemical composition of hematoporphyrin derivative are given, the photophysical and photochemical reactions caused by photosensitizer distribution in organism and cell, as well mechanisms of photodestruction of cells and cell organelles. PMID- 2527568 TI - [Genetic aspects of microphylogeny of black-and-white cattle of Uzbekistan]. AB - The genetic aspects of microphylogeny of herds of black and white cattle of Asian and European populations have been studied on the basis of distribution analysis of frequency in 62 antigens of 11 systems of blood groups. PMID- 2527569 TI - [N,N'-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide-sensitive K+-dependent ATPase activity in Escherichia coli]. AB - ATPase activity sensitive to N,N'-dicyclohexylcarbodiimide and dependent on K+ content in medium is observed only in anaerobically grown Escherichia coli and as the analysis of mutants with defects in different subunits of (F0F1) H+-ATPase and in potassium transport shows only under the structural integrity of both F0F1 and K+-ionophore (the Trk system). The obtained results confirm the data on the H+/K+-exchange and indicate that the F0F1 and Trk systems in anaerobically grown bacteria unite into the same membrane supercomplex inside which the direct energy transfer occurs without a mediation of delta-mu H+. PMID- 2527570 TI - Localization of proopiomelanocortin (POMC) immunoreactive neurons in the forebrain of the pig. AB - The distribution of proopiomelanocortin (POMC)-immunoreactive neurons was examined in the forebrains of nine sexually mature female pigs by indirect biotin avidin horseradish peroxidase immunocytochemistry. Primary antiserum against ovine beta-endorphin (Bioflex #BF-EP-3-1) yielded positive staining of neuronal perikarya and processes. Adjacent control sections treated either with primary antiserum preabsorbed with beta-endorphin or substituted with normal rabbit serum lacked specific staining. POMC-immunoreactive cells were located in the anterior and intermediate lobe of the pituitary gland. POMC-immunoreactive perikarya were located in the arcuate nucleus and periarcuate area. The pituitary stalk/median eminence contained sparsely distributed POMC-immunoreactive fibers, which were confined to the zona interna. POMC-immunoreactive fibers were located in the arcuate nucleus and extended rostrally from the arcuate nucleus into the telencephalon coursing adjacent to the wall of the third ventricle as well as through the anterior hypothalamus, suprachiasmatic, supraoptic nuclei and preoptic areas to the nucleus accumbens, diagonal band of Broca, olfactory tubercle, bed nucleus of the stria terminalis and the ventro-lateral aspect of the septum. Caudal projections extended along the wall of the third ventricle to the level of the mammillary bodies and also coursed dorsally, passing through the periventricular, paraventricular, and dorsal medial nuclei of the hypothalamus to the midline thalamic nuclei and habenular nucleus. Lateral projections extended from the arcuate nucleus along the dorsal aspect of the optic tract and terminated in the amygdaloid complex. The distribution of POMC-immunoreactive perikarya and fibers is similar to that of the luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) fiber network. Therefore the opportunities exist, anatomically, for interactions between the POMC and the LHRH systems. PMID- 2527572 TI - Peripheral lymph node helper T-cell recovery after syngeneic bone marrow transplantation in mice prepared with either gamma-irradiation or busulfan. AB - The optimum marrow ablative regimen for preparing recipients of bone marrow transplantation (BMT) has not been established. gamma-Irradiation, but not busulfan, produces a characteristic microvascular injury pattern which results in depressed capacity of normal lymphocytes to localize into the lymph nodes of syngeneic murine BMT recipients. Since peripheral lymph nodes are important sites for initiation and amplification of immune responses, the preparative regimen might delay recovery of regionally compartmentalized immune functions after BMT. We evaluated the effects of busulfan and gamma-irradiation on the phenotypic and functional reconstitution of helper T-cell function within the peripheral lymph nodes of BMT recipients. Both marrow ablative regimens caused a protracted delay in regeneration of peripheral lymph node CD4+ T cells. Specific helper T-cell functions, such as contact hypersensitivity and alloantigen responses, remained significantly depressed in the lymph nodes of irradiated mice for prolonged periods (up to 60 weeks). These responses recovered more rapidly in busulfan treated BMT recipients. In contrast, the capacity of peripheral lymph node T cells to provide "help" for antigen-specific immunoglobulin production was only transiently depressed by either preparative regimen. Our experiments confirm the hypothesis that the marrow ablative regimen, particularly gamma-irradiation, may contribute to the period of immunodeficiency which follows BMT. The pattern of immune recovery observed suggests that preparative total body irradiation (TBI) may selectively depress the regional recovery of the TH1 [interleukin-2 (IL-2) and gamma-interferon (gamma-IFN) secreting] lymphocyte subset. PMID- 2527571 TI - Orientation of DNA in agarose gels. AB - An orientation of the lambda DNA during the electrophoresis in agarose gels was measured by a microscopic linear dichroism technique. The method involved staining the DNA with the dye ethidium bromide and measuring under the microscope the polarization properties of the fluorescence field around the electrophoretic band containing the nucleic acid. It was first established that the fluorescence properties of the ethidium bromide-DNA complex were the same in agarose gel and in a solution. Then the linear dichroism method was used to measure the dichroism of the absorption dipole of EB dye bound to lambda DNA. In a typical experiment the orientation of two-tenth of a picogram (2 x 10(-13)g) of DNA was measured. When the electric field was turned on, the dichroism developed rapidly and assumed a steady state value which increased with the strength of the field and with the size of DNA. A linear dichroism equation related the measured dichroism of fluorescence to the mean orientation of the absorption dipole of ethidium bromide and to an extent to which the orientation of this dipole deviated from the mean. The observed development of dichroism in the presence of an electric field was interpreted as an alignment of DNA along the direction of the field. The increase in the steady state value of dichroism with the rise in the strength of the field and with the increase of the size of DNA was interpreted as a better alignment of DNA along the direction of the field and as a smaller deviation from its mean orientation. PMID- 2527573 TI - The activity of the red blood cell Ca pump is decreased in hemolytic anemia of the beagle dog. AB - A mild hereditary nonspherocytic anemia in Beagle dogs was studied. Compared to RBCs from normal dogs, RBCs from hemolytic Beagles were larger on average, contained more potassium, and exhibited an approximately 50% decrease in rate of loss of ATP induced by Ca and the ionophore, A23187. Under certain conditions, this rate of ATP loss can be taken as a measure of the Ca pump ATPase activity of intact RBCs. From RBC fractionation studies it appeared that the defective Ca pump ATPase was acquired during the relatively short life-span of the hemolytic RBC. Significant loss of Ca pump ATPase may be causally related to the hemolytic anemia. The mechanism(s) by which Ca pump ATPase activity is lost in this hemolytic anemia remain(s) to be determined. PMID- 2527575 TI - Law lords' decision on consent. PMID- 2527576 TI - Left lower lobe ventilation and its relation to cardiomegaly and posture. PMID- 2527577 TI - ABC of clinical genetics. DNA analysis in genetic disorders. PMID- 2527574 TI - The biological activities of interleukin-1. AB - Interleukin-1 (IL-1) refers to a hormone-like polypeptide that mediates a broad spectrum of activities in host defence as well as a variety of disease processes. Originally described as a substance produced by activated macrophages, IL-1 is now recognized as a polypeptide produced by many other cell types. Two distinct genes have been identified that code for two structurally related forms of the molecule, termed IL-1 alpha and beta. IL-1 is the primary mediator of the acute phase response and is responsible for many of the changes associated with the onset of infection. It is involved in the immune response to antigenic challenge. IL-1 induces fever and has profound endocrinologic, neurologic, metabolic and hematologic effects. Both forms of IL-1 bind to a common receptor that has been identified on a variety of cell types including lymphocytes, hepatocytes, endothelial cells and fibroblasts. Many of the activities of IL-1 are mediated by the induction of other cytokines like IL-2, IL-6, interferons, tumor necrosis factor, and colony-stimulating factors. In animals IL-1 protects against the effects of radiation, it enhances natural resistance of infection, and it stimulates bone marrow recovery after myelosuppression. These studies suggest that IL-1 may be used as a therapeutic agent. PMID- 2527578 TI - Sternal osteomyelitis: treatment with rectus abdominis muscle. AB - Sternal osteomyelitis complicates recovery in a small number of patients following median sternotomy. Techniques for operative treatment have in common the wide debridement of devitalised tissue and administration of culture-specific antibiotics. The resultant wound can be managed by delayed primary closure or transposition of well-vascularised adjacent tissue. Omentum, pectoralis major muscle and rectus abdominis muscle are suitable for transposition either alone or in combination. Our series is composed of ten patients who underwent rectus abdominis muscle transfer for the treatment of sternal osteomyelitis. The rectus abdominis obliterates dead space in the lower third of the wound, a difficult area to reach with the pectoralis major muscle. Five patients had one rectus abdominis muscle alone transposed, avoiding the aesthetic and functional deficits of pectoralis major transposition and the risks of omental transfer. Wound healing occurred in every case with a minimum of postoperative complications. PMID- 2527579 TI - Testing the chemosensitivity of renal carcinoma in vitro. AB - Tumour cells from 23 renal carcinomas were exposed in vitro to increasing concentrations of medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) or one of several cytotoxic agents. Thereafter the uptake of 75Selenomethionine (75SeM) was compared to that of tumour cells not exposed to the drug. Using drug concentrations similar to those seen following in vivo administration in patients, MPA produced greater than or equal to 50% inhibition of 75SeM uptake in 5 of 23 cases. The comparable proportion for doxorubicin was 4 of 5 and for mitozantrone 7 of 12. Methotrexate and Vinblastine were much less effective. In all cases where greater than or equal to 50% inhibition was obtained with doxorubicin and mitozantrone the carcinoma had spread beyond the kidney. Thus drug sensitivity may be associated with a high mitotic rate. PMID- 2527580 TI - Aids in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis. AB - Methods used to improve the accuracy of diagnosis of acute appendicitis are reviewed. Laparoscopy, barium enema, ultrasonography and computer assistance have all been shown to improve accuracy, but no one method is of proven superiority. Such diagnostic aids or intensive in-hospital observation must be used to reduce the 15-30 per cent negative laparotomy rate when acute appendicitis is suspected, without increasing the incidence of appendiceal perforation. PMID- 2527581 TI - Expanded polytetrafluoroethylene patch for the repair of large abdominal wall defects. AB - Expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) was used to repair 11 large abdominal wall defects in ten patients. Three patches were fixed to the adjacent abdominal aponeurosis with a single row of sutures; seven patches were implanted with a 1-2 cm overlap of patch and aponeurosis and a double row of sutures. Recurrent buttonhole hernias were found in two patients, in both of whom a single row of sutures had been used. This reherniation was due to insufficient anchorage of the patch to the fascia. It is concluded that ePTFE is a useful material to repair large abdominal wall defects provided the patch is fixed to the aponeurosis with an overlap and a double row of sutures to prevent buttonhole hernias. PMID- 2527582 TI - D2-agonist quinpirole induces perseveration of routes and hyperactivity but no perseveration of movements. AB - The behavior in an open field of rats injected with the D2-agonist quinpirole (2 mg/kg; n = 10) and saline (n = 10) was analyzed in terms of routes and movements. Quinpirole induces perseveration of routes without inducing perseveration of movements. Perseveration of routes consists of repeated travel along a few paths in a limited portion of the environment. Lack of perseveration of movements was evidenced by the same distribution of lateral, vertical, and forward movements as in saline-treated animals. Quinpirole also increased the total amount of progression and the total number of movements performed by the rat's body parts along all dimensions of movements. Thus, under quinpirole, animals were hyperactive, stereotyped in route, but free in movement. This profile resembles behavior under low doses of amphetamine but not the behavior under either apomorphine or high doses of amphetamine. Thus, contrary to the current view, administration of a D2-receptor agonist is sufficient to produce a major component of dopamine-induced stereotyped behavior. It is suggested that quinpirole induces perseveration of route by affecting presynaptic release of dopamine, and that the organization of route is independent of the organization of movement. PMID- 2527583 TI - Decreased striatal D1 binding density following mesotelencephalic 6 hydroxydopamine injections: an autoradiographic analysis. AB - Autoradiographic experiments performed on rats with unilateral mesotelencephalic 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) injections revealed reduced binding of [3H]SCH23390 to D1 receptors in the striatum ipsilateral to the neurotoxin as well as increased binding of [3H]spiroperidol to D2 receptors in that hemisphere. These opposite influences of injury on the dopamine receptor subtypes occurred in rats sacrificed at 2 weeks or 11 months postoperatively, but neither change was evident at 4 days postoperatively. Equilibrium saturation analysis performed on rats sacrificed at 8 weeks postoperatively indicated that D1 and D2 receptor changes reflected altered Bmax values without KD modifications. Topographic analysis of the D1 decline by quantitative autoradiography revealed that the D1 decrease was greater in dorsal striatum than ventrally. Those striatal regions that showed greater declines in D1 density correspondingly had the greater losses of [3H]mazindol binding after the denervation, suggesting that the decline of D1 binding is a postsynaptic consequence of the reduced mesostriatal dopaminergic innervation. The findings indicate opposite influences of injury on D2 and D1 receptor levels and raise important questions concerning the mechanism by which 6 OHDA injection affects the D1 sites. PMID- 2527585 TI - Distribution of dopamine D-2 receptors in the rat striatal complex and its comparison with acetylcholinesterase. AB - The distribution of D-2 dopamine receptors in the rat striatal complex was studied with autoradiography after specific in vivo labeling with the dopamine agonist [3H]N-n-propylnorapomorphine and subsequent irreversible fixation. This labeling technique allows the visualization of D-2 receptors at the cellular level by light microscopic emulsion autoradiography. During the preparation of emulsion autoradiograms, the recovery of the label was 75%, the specific and the aspecific label being equally affected. The distribution of label before and after the loss of radioactive label occurred, did not show differences. In rat neostriatum, dopamine D-2 receptors are not homogeneously distributed: in the caudate-putamen the density is laterally higher than medially. Moreover, there exists a mosaic-like pattern of receptor density. In the ventral striatum, comprising the fundus striati, nucleus accumbens septi and olfactory tubercle, the receptor density is lower than in the caudate-putamen, except for the core regions in the islands of Calleja and the rim of these islands, which contain high (as high as the lateral caudate-putamen) and a moderate density of receptors, respectively. In caudate-putamen and lateral nucleus accumbens it appeared that the intensity of acetylcholinesterase staining parallels more or less the distribution of dopamine D-2 receptors. In medial nucleus accumbens and in olfactory tubercle, the high intensity of acetylcholinesterase is not paralleled by a high D-2 receptor labeling density. This receptor labeling density does not seem to be matched by differences in densities of medium-sized neuronal cell bodies. PMID- 2527584 TI - Brainstem projections to cats' upper lumbar spinal cord: implications for abdominal muscle control. AB - Unilateral L1-L2 gray matter HRP injections labeled neurons bilaterally in nucleus retroambiguus (expiratory neuron region of caudal ventral respiratory group) and ventromedial reticular formation. Minor labeling occurred in raphe, vestibular, and medial parabrachial nuclei, lateral reticular formation, and C1 C2. Midsagittal lesions between C1 and obex prevented nucleus retroambiguus labeling (except 1 contralateral cell adjacent an incomplete lesion), indicating that these neurons decussate between C1 and obex and have collaterals that recross the spinal cord. PMID- 2527587 TI - Interventions for acute myocardial infarction: PTCA and CABGS. PMID- 2527586 TI - Acute MI: role of thrombolysis and intervention. AB - Several issues confront the physician treating the patient with an acute infarction. If the patient is a thrombolytic candidate, a 20 to 30 per cent failure rate still exists, and it is difficult to predict on clinical grounds who has had a successful trial of thrombolytics or not; therefore, considerable clinical judgment must be applied. If the patient has relief of pain and diminished ST segment elevation, it is likely that thrombolytic therapy has been successful. Limitations concerning the benefits of thrombolytic or angioplasty therapy for the acute infarction also exist with regard to baseline patient characteristics. Older patients, especially women, seem to have more complications and less beneficial results from acute revascularization than do others. Patients with anterior infarctions as compared with posterior or inferior wall infarctions probably have a higher benefit from intracoronary thrombolysis. The acute myocardial infarction patient can be treated in multiple ways. Based on the preceding information and our own clinical experience, some recommendations can be made. Other sources with their own recommendations are available as well. First, because of the uncertainty still present in deciding optimum therapy for any given patient, as many patients as possible should be included in randomized prospective clinical trials that are now ongoing. If the patient or treating physician elects not to take part in such a trial, much of the therapy will be based on available resources. In small hospitals without acute catheterization or angioplasty facilities, intravenous thrombolytic therapy should be instituted as quickly as possible. In patients who are not able to receive thrombolytic therapy, acute catheterization with consideration for either angioplasty or acute bypass surgery should be undertaken if the patients are relatively young and early on in their course. Treatment of older patients, especially women, should be tempered by the knowledge that there are diminishing returns in aggressive approaches to these patients. It would appear that the presence of cardiogenic shock itself, although a predictor of higher cardiac mortality, should not preclude an aggressive approach and indeed this patient may benefit greatly from revascularization as well as pharmacologic and mechanical support of the cardiovascular system. If thrombolytic therapy without catheterization is undertaken, there remains the potential for either nonrevascularization or early closure.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2527588 TI - [Pathogenesis of peripheral neuropathy in streptozotocin-induced diabetes in rats]. AB - Experimental diabetes rats was induced in rats by intraperitoneal streptozotocin. The changes of glucose, sorbitol, fructose and free myoinositol in diabetic sciatic nerve and plasma, the changes of enzyme activity of sciatic nerve in relation to glucose, lipid and protein metabolism were studied during 1, 2, 4, 6, 12 weeks after induction of diabetes. The structural changes of 6 and 12 week diabetic sciatic nerve were observed sequentially by light and electron microscopy during the course of 6 and 12 weeks. The results showed that glucose, sorbitol and fructose in blood and sciatic nerve were increased markedly, but free myo-inositol was normal in blood and decreased in sciatic nerve. The enzyme activity such as ICDH, MDH, LDH, alpha-GPDH all reduced, but the activity of sorbitol dehydrogenase increased. Various ultrastructural changes such as swollen unmyelinated fibers, swollen mitochondria in axon, degenerative changes of myelin sheath and atrophic axon were observed, but no changes was found by light microscopy. PMID- 2527589 TI - Bronchoalveolar lavage in the cat: cytological findings. AB - Cells recovered by bronchoalveolar lavage from the lungs of specific pathogen free (SPF) cats from birth to maturity and from adult conventional cats were enumerated and identified. The predominant cell type recovered was the pulmonary alveolar macrophage from all ages of both SPF and conventional cats. Other cell types included eosinophils, neutrophils and lymphocytes. Lavage of conventional cats yielded significantly more eosinophils and neutrophils than were recovered from SPF cats. PMID- 2527590 TI - Severe reactions to amoxicillin. PMID- 2527591 TI - Local adverse reactions to diphtheria and tetanus toxoids and pertussis vaccine, adsorbed, in Surrey, BC. PMID- 2527592 TI - Emergence of spectinomycin-resistant strains of penicillinase-producing Neisseria gonorrhoeae in Quebec. PMID- 2527593 TI - Marital intimacy in parents of exceptional children. AB - The purpose of this study was to examine the role of perceived parenting stress and parental depression on marital intimacy between parents of handicapped children versus developmentally normal children, and to investigate discrepancies between husbands' and wives' reports of marital intimacy. The parents of 31 autistic children, 31 Down Syndrome children and 62 developmentally normal children, matched for both mental and chronological age were studied. Results indicated significantly greater stress and depression, as well as lower marital intimacy for mothers of autistic children than mothers of normal children, and significantly greater stress than mothers of Down Syndrome children who fell somewhere between other groups of parents in all three measures. Fathers of autistic children experienced significantly higher parenting stress than the other groups, as well as lower marital intimacy but there were no differences amongst fathers on measures of depression. Low scores on subscales of identity and compatibility for mothers implying low self esteem contributed significantly to the lowered perception of marital intimacy. Implications for intervention, based on these findings, are discussed. PMID- 2527594 TI - Acute disc: trends in treatment. PMID- 2527595 TI - Coincidence in fragile site expression with fluorodeoxyuridine and bromodeoxyuridine. AB - Fragile site expression induced by 10 micrograms/ml or 20 micrograms/ml fluorodeoxyuridine (FudR) and 25 micrograms/ml or 50 micrograms/ml bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) was studied in lymphocyte cultures of six healthy individuals. A significant decrease in mitotic indexes in respect to control cultures was observed with both FudR concentrations used. The cells showing chromosome aberrations and the total number of cytogenetic alterations were significantly increased both in FudR (p less than 0.001) and BrdU (25 micrograms/ml) (p less than 0.05) treated cultures with respect to the control culture. A site showing a gap or a break was defined as fragile if it appeared in 1% of the cells analyzed and in at least three of the six individuals studied with the same culture treatment. Using these criteria, fragile sites 4q31, 5q15, 6p22, 7p13, 7q32, 13q21, and 14q24 were induced in different proportions by both chemical agents. Although these drugs act via different mechanisms, they both substitute for thymidine in DNA. Our findings suggest that FudR is a more potent common fragile site inducer than BrdU. PMID- 2527596 TI - Reproductive alterations in female C57BL/Crgl mice exposed neonatally to zearalenone, an estrogenic mycotoxin. AB - Newborn female mice were injected daily for 5 days with 1 microgram zearalenone (Z, a weakly estrogenic mycotoxin present in cereal grains), resulting in ovary dependent reproductive tract alterations at 8 months of age. Corpora lutea were absent from 25 of 34 (74%) Z-treated mice, indicating ovarian dysfunction. Fifty six percent of Z-treated mice had dense collagen deposition in the uterine stroma and lacked uterine glands. Squamous metaplasia of the uterine luminal epithelium was found in 59% of Z-treated mice, and altered vaginal epithelium was found in 32% (2 mice had dysplastic lesions). Ovariectomized Z-treated mice were indistinguishable from ovariectomized controls. PMID- 2527597 TI - Aromatase inhibitors in the treatment of advanced breast cancer. PMID- 2527598 TI - Intravascular ultrasound: catheter-based Doppler and two-dimensional imaging. AB - Intracoronary Doppler and two-dimensional imaging devices have been developed to aid in the search for more precise information about vessel pathology and local vessel hemodynamics. Measurement of coronary flow reserve using Doppler catheters has been well-validated experimentally and is being used clinically in certain groups of patients. Current designs using Fast-Fourier Transform of the signal and real-time video spectral display allows for instantaneous modification in positioning of the catheter within the artery to minimize artifacts. Studies are underway to assess whether measurement of coronary flow reserve and estimations of absolute flow add practical information to the quantitative assessment of vascular disease. Contrast angiography has been the "gold standard" for in vivo study of vascular disease. The recent development of two-dimensional imaging catheters has potentially opened up a new frontier of clinical assessment of vessel pathology. Imaging catheters can be used in a diagnostic role as a means of guiding therapeutic interventions. Direct analysis of the radiofrequency output of the catheter may allow for more precise characterization of plaque composition. PMID- 2527599 TI - [Does epitestosterone function as an endogenous antiandrogen?]. AB - The action of the endogenous steroid epitestosterone administered to castrated male mice substituted with testosterone propionate is manifested by reduced weight increments and a reduced relative weight of their seminal vesicles and kidneys. Epitestosterone in vitro displaces androgens from their bond with receptors in cytosol from rat prostates and markedly inhibits the testosterone transformation to the more effective androgen dihydrotestosterone. Epitestosterone can be thus defined as a true endogenous antiandrogen; to its action at the receptor level a potent inhibitory effect on 5 alpha-reductase must be added. PMID- 2527600 TI - [Detection of antibodies and assessment of an international unit of anti-HBs specific immunoglobulin, HEPAGA]. AB - The authors submit information on the presence and titre of antibodies against antigens of the hepatitis B virus [HB] and the Czechoslovak specific anti-HBs immunoglobulin, HEPAGA, and on the presence of the delta-antibody. The presence of the antibody against the surface antigen of the HB virus [HBsAb, anti-HBs] was examined in 32 batches, the antibody against the nucleus of the HB virus [HBcAb] and e-antigen [HBeAb] in a total of 27 batches. HBsAb was positive in the majority of cases still when diluted 1/2,500,000; HBcAb when diluted in the range from 1/25,000 to 1/2,500,000; the positivity of HBcAb ended with the exception of one batch at the dilution of 1/250. The delta antibody was detected only in batches from 1982 and 1983, in a maximum dilution of 1/8. All examinations were made by the radioimmunoassay [RIA] technique. The authors give also an account of the assessment of the international HEPAGA [IU/ml]. The last batch has 170 IU/ml. PMID- 2527601 TI - Mechanism of the calcium pump in the endoplasmic reticulum of liver: phosphoproteins as reaction intermediates. AB - Microsomal fractions, highly enriched with endoplasmic reticulum of rat and human liver exhibit Ca2+ uptake catalyzed by a Ca2+-pumping ATPase. The mechanism of Ca2+-translocation involves: (i) reversible Ca2+-dependent formation of an acyl phosphoenzyme intermediate (Mr 116,000 to 118,000) with bound Ca2+, which in the reversed reaction can transphosphorylate its Pi to ADP to re-synthesize ATP; (ii) reversible transition of the ADP-reactive phosphoenzyme into an isomer without bound Ca2+, not further reactive to ADP; (iii) hydrolytic cleavage, stimulated by Mg2+, K+, and ATP of the ADP-unreactive phosphoenzyme with liberation of Pi. By analogy to a mechanism proposed for the Ca2+ pump of sarcoplasmic reticulum, the translocation of Ca2+ to and dissociation from the inner side of the membrane is suggested to occur by a conformational change, coupled with a decrease in Ca2+ affinity of the phosphoenzyme during its transition into the ADP-unreactive isomer. With CaATP as the effective substrate the reactions proceed normally but at a considerably slower rate. PMID- 2527602 TI - Structure, function and subcellular localization of a human platelet Ca2+-ATPase. AB - Human platelets contain a Ca2+-ATPase in internal membranes that is essential for Ca2+ homeostasis. This Ca2+ pump has enzymatic properties quite similar to the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ pumps. Antibodies against the SR Ca2+ pump crossreact with the human platelet protein. However, the platelet Ca2+-ATPase is approximately 10 kD larger than the SR pumps and exhibits a larger mRNA coding for the protein in a megakaryocyte tumor cell line. In addition, the platelet Ca2+-pump may be localized in specialized internal membrane structures that function in Ca2+ uptake and release. These results suggest that the platelet Ca2+ ATPase may represent a new class of internal membrane Ca2+-pumps. PMID- 2527603 TI - Complete membranous obstruction of inferior vena cava: case treated by balloon dilatation. AB - A 30 year-old male with the Budd-Chiari syndrome due to complete membranous obstruction to the inferior vena cava was successfully treated by Brockenbrough needle puncture followed by balloon dilatation of the membrane. The procedure produced marked symptomatic relief and excellent haemodynamic and angiographic results. The case is reported to highlight the application of balloon angioplasty in this rare condition. PMID- 2527604 TI - Large air embolus complicating coronary angioplasty. AB - With the substantial advances in technology and further refinements in the technique of coronary angioplasty, the potential for and manifestations of complications may have changed from those observed in populations studied previously. We describe a rare complication of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA), a large air embolus obstructing coronary flow, which is related to the newer technology. The air embolus was successfully extracted by aspiration through the balloon angioplasty catheter. PMID- 2527605 TI - Transcatheter occlusion of ventricular septal defect. AB - The patent ductus arteriosus occlusion device (Rashkind-USCI) was employed to occlude a residual ventricular septal defect after Fontan procedure in a patient with hypoplastic right ventricle, ventricular septal defect, and pulmonary stenosis. There was significant right-to-left shunting across the ventricular septal defect, with cyanosis exacerbated by exercise. After placement of the 17 mm occlusion device, the right-to-left shunt was markedly diminished, and the cyanosis resolved. Occlusion of ventricular septal defects in patients with complex congenital heart disease may be performed with the patent ductus arteriosus occluder in selected instances. PMID- 2527606 TI - Precordial ST elevation with acute conus branch occlusion. AB - A 70-year-old man developed anterior precordial ST elevation during coronary angiography in the presence of a normal left coronary artery. Injection of a proximally totally occluded right coronary artery caused occlusion of the conus branch. The electrocardiographic findings are shown, and the pathogenesis is discussed. PMID- 2527607 TI - Percutaneous aspiration of a thromboembolus. AB - Percutaneous aspiration of a thromboembolus was successfully performed in 12 out of 13 patients with in situ thrombosis (4 patients), distal embolization (7 patients), or both (2 patients). The flow was improved from TIMI 0 (10 patients, no flow) or TIMI 1 (2 patients, impaired flow) to TIMI 3 (10 patients, normal flow) or TIMI 2 (2 patients, normal but slower flow). A custom-made 8 F Teflon coated sheath was introduced in the superficial femoral and proximal below-the knee arteries to aspirate the debris. Distal embolization in below-the-knee arteries was concomitantly treated with short-term intraarterial Urokinase in nine patients. Complications included one in-hospital (not procedure related) death, two patients with below-the-knee amputations (above-the-knee amputation averted), and one transmetatarsal amputation (prior established gangrene present and below-the-knee amputation avoided). The remaining nine patients left the hospital with improved limb status and peripheral pulses. This technique is a rapid, reliable, and efficient method to treat in-situ clot or procedure-related distal embolization as an adjuvant or complement to lytic treatment. PMID- 2527608 TI - Chronic total coronary occlusion angioplasty. PMID- 2527609 TI - Probe angioplasty of total coronary occlusion using an intracoronary Probing Catheter. AB - Coronary angioplasty (PTCA) of total coronary occlusion is limited by the inability of guidewires and conventional dilating catheters to cross all such lesions. We have therefore developed a technique for PTCA of chronic total coronary occlusions using the ultralow profile "balloon-on-a-wire" Probe. An intracoronary Probing Catheter is used to facilitate crossing the stenosis with a guidewire and then to deliver a Probe into the obstruction for balloon dilatation. This technique was used in 13 patients including six in whom other dilating systems had failed to cross the occlusion. Successful dilatation was performed in nine patients (67%). Among the six patients in whom other dilating systems had failed, dilatation was performed in five using the Probing Catheter technique with a successful outcome achieved in four (67%). The Probing Catheter technique offers a promising new method to apply "balloon-on-a-wire" technology to the dilatation of chronic total coronary occlusions. This method may allow successful dilatation when other dilating systems fail. PMID- 2527610 TI - Open-ended guidewire: new technique for balloon angioplasty of chronically occluded coronary arteries. AB - Chronic total coronary occlusion is a growing indication to percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. Since primary success of balloon angioplasty in this condition is usually limited by the difficulty of crossing the occlusion, different techniques have been described for this purpose, such as use of stiff guidewires, coronary infusion catheters, guidewires with an olive-shaped tip, or new developing methods (atherectomy, laser), in association with balloon dilatation. Here, we describe our initial experience with a thick (0.035 in) and relatively stiff open-ended guidewire, which has an inner (0.018 in diameter) lumen provided with a core wire. Several advantages are considered. The core wire yields a perfect means of steerability of the whole system, while pushability of a thicker guidewire is much greater. Moreover, the core wire can be removed, and contrast injections beyond the occlusion through the inner lumen can assure proper intraluminal location. Finally, position across the occlusion can be kept easily, since an exchange wire for conventional balloon catheters can be inserted in the inner lumen of the open-ended guidewire. PMID- 2527611 TI - Complex multiple percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasties with vortex oxygenator cardiopulmonary support in the community hospital setting. AB - With the support of a Bard percutaneous cardiopulmonary bypass pump system, multiple complex percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasties (PTCAs) were performed successfully in four patients previously declined for surgery or intervention because of prohibitive risks. PMID- 2527612 TI - Effect of respiration on angiographic assessment of saphenous vein graft stenoses. AB - Coronary angiography in two patients, one 11 yr and the second 15 yr following coronary bypass surgery demonstrated striking focal decrease in vein graft diameter related to the inspiratory phase of the respiratory cycle. The pathophysiology, potential role of mechanical traction, and the clinical implications of this observation are discussed. PMID- 2527613 TI - Improved method for transcatheter retrieval of intracoronary detached angioplasty guidewire segments. AB - A transcatheter technique using a probing catheter and 0.014 wire to form a loop snare was used percutaneously to safely retrieve segments of retained guidewire fragments in mid- and distal coronary arteries in three patients. PMID- 2527614 TI - Fibulin, a novel protein that interacts with the fibronectin receptor beta subunit cytoplasmic domain. AB - A 100 kd protein was isolated from tissue and cell extracts by affinity chromatography on a synthetic peptide representing the cytoplasmic domain of the fibronectin receptor beta subunit. The 100 kd protein also bound to native fibronectin receptor, and this binding could be reversed with EDTA. Calcium may be the divalent cation required for the binding since the 100 kd protein was found to bind 45Ca2+. The N-terminal amino acid sequence of the 100 kd protein was not similar to any sequence in a protein data base. Immunofluorescent staining of cells cultured on fibronectin showed the 100 kd protein coinciding with the fibronectin receptor beta subunit in sites of substrate contact. Therefore this protein, which we term fibulin, interacts with the fibronectin receptor in vitro and associates with the receptor in vivo. Fibulin is a potential mediator of interactions between adhesion receptors and the cytoskeleton. PMID- 2527615 TI - Short cytoplasmic sequences serve as retention signals for transmembrane proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum. AB - The adenoviral transmembrane E3/19K glycoprotein is a resident of the endoplasmic reticulum. Here we show that the last six amino acid residues of the 15-membered cytoplasmic tail are necessary and sufficient for the ER retention. These residues can be transplanted onto the cytoplasmic tail of other membrane-bound proteins such that ER residency is conferred. Deletion analysis demonstrated that no single amino acid residue is responsible for the retention. The identified structural motif must occupy the extreme COOH-terminal position to be functional. An endogenous transmembrane ER protein, UDP-glucuronosyltransferase, also contains a retention signal in its cytoplasmic tail. We suggest that short linear sequences occupying the extreme COOH-terminal position of transmembrane ER proteins serve as retention signals. PMID- 2527616 TI - Immunoregulatory effects of a suppressor factor from healthy pregnant women's lymphocytes after progesterone induction. AB - Progesterone-treated pregnancy lymphocytes release an immunologic blocking factor. The mode of action of this substance was investigated. The supernatant of progesterone-treated pregnancy lymphocytes was highly suppressive of natural cytotoxicity toward human embryonic fibroblast target cells as well as of natural killer cell activity. The effect was not observed when progesterone induction was performed in the presence of RU 486, a progesterone receptor blocking agent. The factor was able to inhibit mixed lymphocyte reactions (MLRs), and transfer coculture experiments revealed that this effect was dependent on major histocompatibility complex nonspecific, nonrestricted suppressor T cells. The activation/expansion of suppressor inducer and suppressor effector T cells was further proved by fluorescence-activated cell sorter analysis of the populations from MLRs cultured in the presence of the inhibitory factor. These changes were not observed with MLRs performed in the presence of supernatants from progesterone + RU 486-treated peripheral blood lymphocytes. The inhibitory material, on the other hand, did not affect either production or function of IL 2. We conclude that in the presence of high local concentrations of progesterone, a suppressive pathway dependent on specific progesterone-CD8+ lymphocyte interaction might be established. This mechanism might play an important role in the maintenance of pregnancy. PMID- 2527617 TI - Genetic resistance in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. I. Analysis of the mechanism of LeR resistance using radiation chimeras. AB - Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is a cell-mediated autoimmune disease of the central nervous system that has been extensively studied in the rat. The Lewis rat is highly susceptible to the induction of EAE, while the Lewis resistant (LeR) rat is known to be resistant. In this paper, we demonstrate that the LeR rat, which was derived from the Lewis strain by inbreeding of fully resistant animals, is histocompatible with the Lewis strain. Radiation chimeras, a tool for distinguishing between immunologic and nonimmunologic resistance mechanisms, were utilized to analyze the cellular mechanisms involved in genetic resistance to EAE. By transplanting bone marrow cells from LeR rats into irradiated Lewis recipients, Lewis rats were rendered resistant to EAE induction. Likewise, transplanting Lewis bone marrow cells into irradiated LeR recipients rendered LeR rats susceptible. Mixed lymphoid cell chimeras using bone marrow, spleen, and thymus cells in Lewis recipient rats revealed individual lymphoid cell types and cell interactions that significantly affected the incidence and severity of EAE. Our results suggest that LeR resistance is mediated by hematopoietic/immune cells, and that cells located in the spleen appear to play a critical role in the resistance/susceptibility to EAE induction. Depletion of splenic adherent cells did not change the patterns of EAE resistance. In vivo cell mixing studies suggested the presence of a suppressor cell population in the LeR spleen preparations which exerted an inhibitory effect on Lewis autoimmune responses. Thus, the mechanism of LeR resistance appears to be different from that in other EAE-resistant animals. PMID- 2527619 TI - Evaluation and treatment of common spine and trunk problems. AB - This article was written not with the intent of establishing a comprehensive list of all problems seen in the trunk and spine of athletes nor as a cookbook for the treatment of these problems. In addition to the simple muscular strains and contusions of the back the physician must be aware of the possibility of underlying spondylolysis, spondylolisthesis, Scheuerman's kyphosis, and variants of Scheuerman's. In addition to these basic pain-related problems the team doctor should keep the possibility of spinal deformities such as scoliosis and silent kyphosis in mind and observe for those during team physicals. Finally, we note that there are several entities such as disc protrusion, infection, tumors, and fractures that are not frequently seen in athletes but must be considered in the workup of those patients who are refractory to the usual simple conservative treatment. PMID- 2527618 TI - Immunological function of kidney-infiltrating lymphocytes from aged NZB mice. AB - A striking aspect of autoimmune kidney disease in the NZB mouse strain is the perivascular infiltration of lymphoid cells. Upon release by enzymatic digestion of kidney tissue from animals 6 months of age or older, these cells have been found to exhibit a high level of immunologic activity not seen in younger mice or in nonautoimmune strains. Kidney-derived cells were found to respond to T and B cell mitogens at levels ranging up to those observed for peripheral blood, and in some cases splenic lymphocytes, from the same animals. An enhanced proliferative response to autologous and allogeneic stimulation was observed compared to these other lymphoid sources. Both spontaneous and LPS-stimulated immunoglobulin synthesis were noted with all three populations, which could be totally or partially blocked by cycloheximide. Selective localization of autoantibody producing cell populations was observed, with anti-erythrocyte antibody restricted to splenocytes and PBL, and the anti-dsDNA implicated in immune complex formation found only in kidney-derived cell culture supernatants. PMID- 2527620 TI - [Characteristics of hirsutism in fertile Russian and Armenian women and in infertile patients]. AB - The authors investigated the characteristic features of pubescence in healthy fertile women of Russian (n = 300) and Armenian nationality (n = 150) and in infertile patients (n = 300). They assessed the criteria or normal female pubescence, liminal pubescence and hirsutism in the two populations. In healthy Armenian women the criteria of normal female pubescence and hirsutism are more marked (p less than 0.001) than in Russian women. In Armenian women significantly more frequently (p less than 0.05) an increased sensitivity of the skin to testosterone was observed, as compared with Russian women. In infertile patients hirsutism was found in 20%. PMID- 2527621 TI - [A new type of trocar with a membrane seal for the second puncture in laparoscopy]. PMID- 2527622 TI - Activation of hepatic microsomal Ca2+-adenosine triphosphatase by calcium-binding protein regucalcin. AB - The effect of regucalcin, a calcium-binding protein isolated from rat liver cytosol, on Ca2+-adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) activity in hepatic microsomes was investigated. Mg2+-ATPase activity was clearly increased by the presence of 50 microM Ca2+. Regucalcin (1.0-4.0 microM) caused a remarkable elevation (about 3-fold) of Ca2+-ATPase activity. Also, Mg2+-ATPase activity was increased (about 1.6-fold) by the presence of regucalcin (2.0 and 4.0 microM). Guanosine-5'-O-(3 thiotriphosphate) (GTPrs; 10(-5) and 10(-4) M) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidized form (NADP+; 10(-5) to 10(-3) M) or reduced form (NADPH; 10(-4) and 10(-3) M) significantly increased Ca2+-ATPase activity. These increases were not enhanced by the presence of regucalcin (2.0 microM). Of various metal ions, a comparatively low concentration of V5+ (10(-5) M) or Cd2+ (10(-6) M) significantly increased Ca2+-ATPase activity, while Hg2+, Zn2+, Cu2+ and Mn2+ did not have such an effect. Regucalcin (2.0 microM) did not enhance the effect of V5+ and Cd2+ on Ca2+-ATPase activity. The present finding, that regucalcin activates hepatic microsomal Ca2+-ATPase, suggests a cell physiological role of regucalcin as an activator in the microsomal Ca2+-pump activity. This action of regucalcin may not be influenced by other regulators. PMID- 2527623 TI - Biomimetic studies using artificial systems. IV. Biomimetic peptide synthesis by using multifunctionalized crown ethers as a novel enzyme model. A new concept in mimicking of enzyme-catalyzed bond-forming reactions. AB - A novel approach to the mimicking of enzyme-catalyzed bond-forming reactions has been examined using multifunctionalized chiral crown ethers. In addition to the 18-crown-6 moiety as a binding site, the host have one thiol and one thio ester with an N-protected alpha-amino acid or a peptide, and have successfully achieved peptide synthesis in an enzyme-mimetic reaction mode. This new method involves the following three key reactions. (1) Intra-complex thiolysis: the host carries out the rapid intra-complex thiolysis of alpha-amino acid ester salts to form the dithioester, corresponding to the assembly of two guests by the host. (2) Amide formation: intramolecular aminolysis occurs between the bound guests to form the amide bond. (3) Peptide chain elongation: as the thiol reactive group is regenerated, the above two reactions are repeated to elongate the peptide chain. Formal turnover of the enzyme model has been demonstrated by the synthesis of a tetrapeptide derivative by the repetition of the above processes. PMID- 2527624 TI - Thromboxane A2 receptor antagonists. II. Synthesis and pharmacological activity of 6,6-dimethylbicyclo[3.1.1]heptane derivatives with the benzenesulfonylamino group. AB - Various stereoisomers based on the alpha- and omega-side chain ring junctions of 6,6-dimethylbicyclo[3.1.1]heptane were synthesized. Their sodium salts 12, 18, 20, 30 and 37 were examined in vitro for their inhibitory activity toward aggregation of rabbit platelet-rich plasma and rat washed platelets. Their potency was very high and the partial agonist effect was small. The differences of the side chain ring junctions did not affect the activity very much. Homologation in the omega-side chain (as in 47) decreased the activity. PMID- 2527625 TI - [Analysis of 4628 cases in the genetic counseling clinic]. AB - An analysis of 4628 cases in the genetic counseling clinic of the PUMC Hospital is reported. Altogether 966 cases (20.89%) were diagnosed as genetic diseases, among which were 436 cases (45%) with chromosomal aberrations, 161 (16.70%) with inherited metabolic diseases, 111 (11.50%) with constitutional bone diseases, 103 (10.70%) with various kinds of genetic muscular diseases, 109 (11.30%) with different dysmorphic syndromes, and 46 (4.80%) with different kinds of genetic dermatoses and oculopathies. 973 cases (21.00%) were suspected to be genetic diseases but could not be proved due to a lack of specific diagnostic methods. Some of the experiences gained and the key role of genetic counseling in preventing the birth of babies with congenital defects are briefly discussed. PMID- 2527626 TI - [Preliminary study of two inbred mice models for infection and immunity of Brucellosis]. AB - We established 2 animal models of Brucellosis using inbred mice (BALB/c and C57/BL) infected with virulent strains of B. melitensis 16, B. abortus 544 and B. suis 12 followed by bacteriological, serological, cellular immunological as well as histopathological examinations. It was shown that the BALB/c was more sensitive than C57/BL to brucella infection, especially to B. abortus 544. It is suggested that BALB/c infected with 544A might be the experimental animal of choice for studying chronic brucella infection. Studies on PFC kinetics of murine Brucellosis were undertaken. It was found that there were varying degrees of immunosuppression of PFC formation in the infectious process of three species of brucella, particularly in B. melitensis 16 M infection. We also observed the allergic reaction of the infected mice to intracutaneous administration of brucellin and found that the C57/BL was more sensitive than BALB/c. It was shown that there was an immunosuppression period between the 37th approximately 45th days after infection in C57/BL. The above mentioned findings provide elementary data for study on the role of immunosuppression in the pathogenesis of Brucellosis. It also provides some basic data for the study of experimental brucella infection in inbred mice. PMID- 2527627 TI - [Effect of cigarette-smoke tar on oxygenation activity of granulocytes detected by luminol- and lucigenin-enhanced chemiluminescence response of rabbit whole blood]. AB - Both luminol- and lucigenin-dependent rabbit whole blood chemiluminescence showed a concentration-dependent inhibition response to cigarette-smoke tar of 0.26 to 2.6 mg/ml. Tar showed no cytotoxicity to granulocytes by Evans blue exclusion. It is suggested that oxygenation activity of granulocytes in smoker's blood could be depressed by tar, resulting in harmful effects on the host defense mechanism with increase of susceptibility to infection and incidence of tumorigenicity. PMID- 2527628 TI - [Mechanism of treating rheumatoid arthritis with Tripterygium wilfordii hook. II. Effect on PGE2 secretion]. AB - PBMC from normal adults and patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) were cultured in the absence or presence of various concentrations of T2, indomethacin, dexamethasone for certain periods of time. The amounts of PGE2 in the cell-free supernatants were measured by radioimmunoassay, and a significant reduction of PGE2 production by PBMC cultured with 2-50 micrograms/ml of T2 was found. The percentages of inhibition of PGE2 production in the cultures with 2 micrograms/ml, 10 micrograms/ml and 50 micrograms/ml of T2 were 44.1 +/- 5.3%, 89.5 +/- 4.9% and 84.3 +/- 8.5% respectively. The PGE2 concentrations in the culture supernatants of RA PBMC were higher than those in the supernatants of normal PBMC, but the inhibitory effect of T2 on RA PBMC production of PGE2 was similar to that on normal PBMC. In comparison with indomethacin, the inhibitory effect of T2 on PGE2 production was less remarkable. However, T2 exhibits therapeutic effects on RA which are superior to any other non-steroid anti inflammatory drug, suggesting that the inhibitory effect of T2 on PGE production may only be one of its therapeutic mechanisms in the treatment of patients with RA. PMID- 2527629 TI - [The pharmacological activities of musk. III. On the mechanisms of its anti inflammatory activities]. AB - The water soluble fraction (WSF) of musk was shown to decrease the vitamin C content of the adrenal gland in mice and to increase plasma corticosterone levels in rats. The anti-inflammatory effect of WSF was not affected by hypophysectomy in the rat but was completely abolished by adrenalectomy in mice, indicating that the adrenal gland may play an important role in mediating the anti-inflammatory effect of musk. The WSF was capable of inhibiting ADP or collagen-induced platelet aggregation in rats. In the meantime, there was a potentiation of immunohemolysis in mice and an elevation of the plasma level of cAMP in rats. The implications of these changes in the anti-inflammatory effects of musk are discussed. PMID- 2527630 TI - [Phenotype analysis of peripheral blood T lymphocytes from SLE patients by flow cytometry]. AB - Phenotype of OKT3, OKT4 and OKT8 markers on surface of peripheral blood T lymphocytes from 31 SLE patients were analyzed with a flow cytometer and the results were compared with those of T cells from 36 normal controls. The results showed that the rates of OKT3+ and OKT4+ cells were within the normal range, while that of OKT8+ cells (44.52 +/- 12.07%) was significantly higher than normal (30.39 +/- 6.06%, P less than 0.01). Besides, the OKT4+/OKT8+ ratio in patients (0.69 +/- 0.24) was lower than that of normal controls (1.06 +/- 0.28, P less than 0.01), 5/13 (38.5%) cases with kidney lesion showing obvious decrease of OKT4+/OKT8+ ratio, while 1/18 cases (5.56%) without kidney lesion also showing such decrease. PMID- 2527631 TI - [The diagnostic value of quantitative atrial activation mapping for localization of cardiac accessory pathways]. AB - The diagnostic value of quantitative atrial activation mapping for localization of cardiac accessory pathways (AP) was evaluated in 50 cases with histories of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). Some possible quantitative criteria are proposed for the differential diagnosis of free wall and septal APs. The diagnostic criteria of septal AP during SVT are 1) Slightly earlier left or right atrium depolarization; 2) time difference between left and right atrial depolarizations (delta A less than or equal to 30 ms; 3) change rate of delta A (delta A%) greater than 50%; 4) delta A index less than 10; and 5) ratio of ventriculo-atrial conduction times between the two atria less than 1.22. The sensitivity of these criteria in the diagnosis of cardiac septal AP is 91.7%, the specificity is 91.5% and the accuracy is 92%. PMID- 2527632 TI - [Potentiated antitumor effect of methotrexate by dipyridamole]. AB - Previous studies have shown that the cytotoxicity of antimetabolites to mammalian cells can be reversed by exogenous nucleosides. Dipyridamole (DP), a nucleoside transport inhibitor, can block the reversal effect, thus potentiating the cytotoxicity of antimetabolites to tumor cells. However, potentiation of antimetabolites by DP in vivo has not yet been reported. In this study we found that thymidine and hypoxanthine markedly reversed the cytotoxicity of methotrexate (MTX) to murine leukemia L1210 cells, and DP effectively blocked the reversal in vitro. In combination with amphotericin B (AmB), DP enhanced the inhibitory effect of MTX on sarcoma 180 in mice without a significant increase in toxicity. To our knowledge this is the first report that the combination of DP and AmB potentiates the antitumor effect of an antimetabolite in vivo. Results suggest that this combination may be potentially useful in cancer chemotherapy. PMID- 2527633 TI - [Human selenium deficiency during total parenteral nutrition support (a case report)]. AB - There is accumulating evidence that selenium plays an important role in human nutrition. We have seen an increasing number of reports of selenium deficiency in patients after long-term Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) support, such as Home Parenteral Nutrition support. There had been no such patient reported in China until now. A sever multiple gastro-intestinal external fistulae patient was admitted in early Oct. 1985. His intestinal fluid loss was about 4-6 liters/day and he was a resident of a town where many people have low serum selenium levels. After two weeks of high calorie, high nitrogen TPN support, his serum selenium levels were 7.14, 6.25, and 7.97 micrograms/L (around the 3rd and 4th weeks of such TPN support). The patient also showed a higher heart rate and pain in the thigh muscle. After 4 weeks of selenium supplement, his serum selenium levels and heart rate were back to normal and the muscle pain disappeared. PMID- 2527635 TI - [Emergence of strains of Neisseria gonorrhoeae spectinomycin- resistant in Libreville (Gabon): 1st case]. PMID- 2527634 TI - [Experimental study of qi deficiency syndrome and Codonopsis pillosulae and Astragalus injection on the immune response in mice]. AB - According to TCM theory "hunger impairs one's Qi", the authors had made mouse model of Qi deficiency syndrome (QDS) through controlling amount of food fed. Compared with mice of normal group, the body weight, thymus index and spleen index obviously decreased in mice of QDS group. The similar effects on humoral immunity and cell-mediated immunity were also obtained. It was found that the Codonopsis pilosulae and Astragalus Injection (CPAI) possessed the promoting action of thymus index, spleen index, humoral immunity and cell mediated immunity on QDS mice and normal mice except spleen index. However, QDS mice were more sensitive to CPAI than the normal mice. 4 x 10(9) SRBC/mouse was administered to normal donor mice by i.p., the super-optimal immunization could obviously induce generation of Ts cells. The CPAI could also reduce generation of Ts cells. This paper had proved that the inherent relation between Qi and immune response of organism, and that the CPAI could promote immune response by means of reducing Ts cells. PMID- 2527636 TI - Suppression of rat mammary cancer development by N-(4-hydroxyphenyl)retinamide (4 HPR) following surgical removal of first palpable tumor. AB - A study was conducted to determine whether N-(4-hydroxyphenyl)retinamide (4-HPR) affects the development of new mammary tumors subsequent to the surgical removal of the first palpable tumor. Sprague-Dawley female rats were injected i.v. with 35 mg N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU) per killogram body weight at 50 days of age. The first palpable tumor was removed when 0.3-0.5 cm in diameter, and the animals placed on diets containing either 1, 2 or 3 mmol 4-HPR/kg diet. Placebo diet without 4-HPR served as control. Some animals were killed at the time of surgical removal of the first tumor and whole mounts of the mammary glands were prepared. Moreover, five animals per group were bled at 1, 3 and 6 months after commencing the 4-HPR diet and the levels of 4-HPR and N-(4-methoxyphenyl)retinamide (4-MPR) were determined. 4-HPR decreased tumor multiplicity in a dose-related manner, but cancer formation was only inhibited at the 2 and 3 mmol levels of 4-HPR. Whole mounts of mammary glands of rats treated with MNU demonstrated the presence of nonpalpable microscopic tumors in addition to the palpable tumor which was excised. Plasma levels of 4-HPR and 4-MPR increased with increasing dietary dose levels, but a linear relationship was not evident. However, the increase in plasma 4-HPR was directly correlated with an increased survival of the tumor bearing animals. The results indicate that 4-HPR effectively inhibits the appearance of subsequent mammary tumors following excision of the first palpable tumor, and thus may be suitable for use as a chemopreventive agent in patients at increased risk for breast disease. PMID- 2527637 TI - Evaluation of preschool children with Down's syndrome in Cape Town using the Griffiths Scale of Mental Development. AB - Fifty-five preschool children with Down's syndrome were assessed using the Griffiths Scale of Mental Development. They were all the children with Down's syndrome living in Cape Town who spoke English or Afrikaans as their home language. There was a significant decrease in developmental quotient with increasing age and the hearing and speech subscore was lower than the other subscores. No significant associations were found between maternal age, sex, social class or race of the child and development. There was a negative association between developmental quotient and the number of siblings. The additional stimulation of a playgroup or preschool centre was associated with improved developmental functioning when compared to the children cared for at home during the day. PMID- 2527638 TI - Comparison of the myocardial uptake of a technetium-labeled isonitrile analogue and thallium. AB - The myocardial transmicrovascular transport of thallium-201 (201Tl) and technetium-99m hexakis(2-methoxyisobutylisonitrile) (MIBI) were compared during variable blood flow levels in nine blood-perfused, isolated rabbit hearts. Seventeen injections of radiolabeled albumin and EDTA as well as 201Tl and MIBI were performed by indicator-dilution techniques. When coronary flow was varied from 0.52 to 3.19 ml/g/min, myocardial extraction for MIBI averaged 0.38 +/- 0.09 (SD) whereas 201Tl myocardial extraction averaged 0.73 +/- 0.10 (p less than 0.001). Net extraction, which was calculated using end points of 1.8-4.9 minutes, averaged 0.41 +/- 0.15 for MIBI and was less than the 201Tl net extraction of 0.57 +/- 0.13 (p less than 0.001). The mean capillary permeability-surface area product for MIBI (0.44 +/- 0.13 ml/g/min) was one third of 201Tl (1.30 +/- 0.45 ml/g/min; p less than 0.001). However, parenchymal cell permeability-surface area product for MIBI (47.58 +/- 25.85 ml/g/min) was much higher than 201Tl (6.52 +/- 6.51 ml/g/min; p less than 0.0001), and apparent cellular volume of distribution for MIBI (15.15 +/- 3.31 ml/g) was also higher than 201Tl (10.19 +/- 4.00 ml/g; p less than 0.01). These data suggest that capillary permeability for 201Tl is greater than MIBI, but the reverse is true at the parenchymal cell wall. In addition, a new blood-perfused preparation is used for indicator-dilution techniques, and previously developed modeling analyses are also extended to these experiments. PMID- 2527639 TI - Isoproterenol-induced myocardial fibrosis in relation to myocyte necrosis. AB - Treatment of rats with the beta-adrenergic agonist isoproterenol results in cardiac hypertrophy, myocyte necrosis, and interstitial cell fibrosis. Our objectives in this study have been to examine whether hypertrophy and fibrosis occur in a compensatory and reparative response to myocyte loss or whether either process may be occurring independently of myocyte loss and thus be a reactive response to adrenergic hormone stimulation. We have examined this question by evaluating each of these responses in rats treated with different doses and forms of isoproterenol administration. Myocyte necrosis was evaluated using in vivo labeling with monoclonal antimyosin for identification of myocytes with permeable sarcolemma, which was indicative of irreversible injury. Myocardial fibrosis was evaluated by morphometric point counting of Gomori-stained tissue sections and by assessment of the stimulation of fibroblast proliferation by determination of increased levels of DNA synthesis. Stimulation of fibroblast DNA synthesis was determined from DNA specific radioactivities and radioautography after pulse labeling with [3H]thymidine. The evidence provided by this study suggests that the degree and timing of myocardial hypertrophy does not follow the course of myocyte loss and, thus, appears to be either a response to altered cardiac loading or a reactive response to beta-adrenergic hormone stimulation rather than a compensation for myocyte loss. Myocardial fibrosis, on the other hand, appears to be more closely related to myocyte necrosis with respect to collagen accumulation in the same areas of the heart, its dose-response relation to the amount of isoproterenol administered, and the timing of increased DNA synthesis, or fibroblast proliferation, after myocyte loss. PMID- 2527640 TI - [Histochemical studies on some enzymes in Clonorchis sinensis]. AB - The localization of some enzyme in adult worms of Clonorchis sinensis was studied by histochemical method in this paper. Acid phosphatase was detected mainly in digestive duct, subtegument and the walls of testis, uterus and ovary; acetylcholinesterase was found in oral sucker, ventral sucker, pharynx; and ATPase was found to exist in oral sucker, ventral sucker, pharynx and muscle layer in the subtegument. The eggs of C. sinensis possessed the above three enzymes. PMID- 2527641 TI - One-year follow-up results of the 1985-1986 National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute's Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty Registry. AB - In 1,801 patients in the 1985-1986 Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty Registry, overall 1-year mortality was 3.2%, the 1-year myocardial infarction rate was 7.2%, and the 1-year coronary artery bypass surgery rate was 13.2%. In the 78% of the cohort with all lesions successfully dilated and without major procedural complications (successful patients), the corresponding rates were 1.9%, 2.6%, and 6.4%. Nearly 20% of all deaths, 40% of all infarctions, and 25% of all bypass operations occurred in the small subset of patients (6.8%) who sustained periprocedural occlusion. Event rates were higher in patients with multivessel disease than in those with one-vessel disease. At 1 year, angina-free status was reported by approximately three fourths of all surviving patients, regardless of initial success. However, compared with successful patients, unsuccessful patients underwent intervening bypass surgery (42% vs. 6%) to achieve asymptomatic status more frequently. Comparison of the 1-year event rates in the 1985-1986 registry with those in the 1977-1981 registry indicated reductions in all major untoward events. These reductions became apparent after controlling for the more extensive disease of the 1985-1986 registry patients. In contrast, use of repeat angioplasty has increased by 50%. We conclude that the improved initial results reported in the 1985-1986 registry cohort were maintained at 1-year follow-up. PMID- 2527642 TI - The N-terminus and a 4,000-MW peptide from the midportion of the N-terminus of the atrial natriuretic factor prohormone each circulate in humans and increase in congestive heart failure. AB - Two peptides consisting of amino acids 1-30 and 31-67 of the N-terminus of the prohormone of atrial natriuretic factor (pro-ANF) that have vasodilatory and natriuretic properties were investigated to determine if they circulate in humans. Specific and sensitive radioimmunoassays were developed to amino acids 1 30, 31-67, and 99-126 of pro-ANF. Evaluation of human plasma that had been subjected to reverse-phase high-pressure liquid chromatography suggested that pro ANFs 1-30 and 31-67 as well as ANF were distinct peaks in human plasma corresponding exactly to pure synthetic peaks of these peptides on high-pressure liquid chromatography. Molecular weight determination of the endogenous immunoreactive peptides measured in plasma by G-50 Sephadex gel permeation chromatography revealed that the pro-ANF 1-30 radioimmunoassay recognized a peptide of 10,000 MW, which is consistent with it measuring the whole N-terminus of pro-ANF (amino acids 1-98) but without ANF (C-terminus) attached to it. The pro-ANF 31-67 radioimmunoassay recognized mainly (more than 95%) a peptide of 3,900-4,000 MW, which corresponds closely with its actual molecular weight of 3,878. Our ANF radioimmunoassay recognizes a peptide in plasma of 3,000 MW with the known molecular weight of ANF being 3,081. The mean circulating concentrations of immunoreactive pro-ANF 1-98, pro-ANF 31-67, and ANF in 54 control subjects were 531 +/- 25, 371 +/- 18, and 22 +/- 1 fmol/ml (+/- SEM), respectively. Thirty patients with varying severity of congestive heart failure were also studied. The N-terminus, C-terminus, and pro-ANF 31-67 increased: twofold for New York Heart Association functional Class II, threefold to ninefold for Class III, and 10- to 20-fold for Class IV patients with congestive heart failure. Thus, the N-terminus and a 4,000-MW peptide from the midportion of the N terminus of pro-ANF as well as ANF circulate normally and increased proportionately to the increasing severity of congestive heart failure. However, because the pro-ANF 31-67 radioimmunoassay was the only assay that discriminated between patients with Class I congestive heart failure and control subjects, this assay may be the most useful to accurately classify the severity of congestive heart failure. PMID- 2527643 TI - Atherosclerosis impairs flow-mediated dilation of coronary arteries in humans. AB - Studies in animals have suggested that increases in blood flow result in dilation of large arteries by an endothelium-dependent mechanism. Atherosclerosis can impair endothelium-dependent vasodilation to vasoactive agents. The purpose of this study was to determine whether or not large coronary arteries in humans exhibit dilation with increases in blood flow and to test the hypothesis that this response is impaired in the presence of atherosclerosis. Graded concentrations of adenosine were infused into the distal left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery to test the dilator response of the proximal LAD to increases in blood flow. The proximal LAD was thereby exposed to changes in blood flow, but not directly to adenosine. Ten patients with angiographically smooth proximal LAD segments (group 1) and seven patients with irregularities in the proximal LAD consistent with mild atherosclerosis (group 2) were studied. Infusions of adenosine throughout the range of 0.022 to 2.2 mg/min into the LAD produced a dose-dependent increase in estimated coronary blood flow and a mean increase of 305 +/- 27% at 2.2 mg/min adenosine. At 2.2 mg/min adenosine, a striking difference (p less than 0.001) occurred between the significant flow mediated dilation of the proximal LAD observed in group 1 (+13.2 +/- 1.3% from 2.63 +/- 0.16 mm, p less than 0.001), and the lack of dilation in group 2 (+1.8 +/- 1.5% from 3.20 +/- 0.17 mm, p = NS), despite a greater increase in coronary blood flow in group 2 (+387 +/- 29%) than in group 1 (+230 +/- 36%).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527644 TI - Assessment of severity of coronary stenoses using a Doppler catheter. Validation of a method based on the continuity equation. AB - The coronary Doppler catheter has been used primarily in the measurement of coronary vasodilator reserve, most often as the ratio of peak to resting velocity in response to an intracoronary dose of papaverine. We have developed a new method based on the continuity equation using a Doppler catheter for the assessment of stenosis severity in the coronary circulation by means of quantitative velocity measurements obtained by complex spectral analysis of the Doppler signal. With this system we have been able to detect a high-velocity stenosis jet in a canine model of coronary stenosis of known cross-sectional area. Using the peak velocity obtained by complex spectral analysis, we found a strong correlation between cross-sectional areas determined by the continuity equation and known cross-sectional areas (r = 0.93, SEE = 0.23 mm2). We also found a strong correlation between the ratio of peak stenosis velocity to proximal vessel velocity and percent diameter and percent area stenosis (r = 0.91 and 0.92, respectively). When the velocity was determined with conventional zero crossing methods for these parameters, there was no correlation between calculated and known values for cross-sectional area and percent diameter or area stenosis. Measurements of the vasodilator reserve in response to intracoronary papaverine before and after implantation of the stenosis did not correlate with any of the anatomic parameters of stenosis severity regardless of the method of signal analysis (zero-crossing or complex spectral analysis). The measurement of quantitative peak coronary velocity with a Doppler catheter using complex spectral analysis may provide an accurate method for determining the severity of a coronary stenosis. PMID- 2527645 TI - Failure of atrial natriuretic factor to increase with volume expansion in acute and chronic congestive heart failure in the dog. AB - It remains unclear whether the levels of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) observed in chronic CHF are appropriate for the magnitude of elevations in atrial pressures. Specifically, it is not known whether acute increases in atrial pressure in CHF can result in further significant increases in circulating ANF. The present study was designed to test the hypothesis that in chronic CHF there is an attenuated relation between circulating ANF and atrial pressure such that the heart is unable to respond to further increases in atrial pressure with appropriate increases in ANF. Cardiovascular hemodynamics and plasma levels of ANF were measured at baseline and after rapid right ventricular pacing (RRVP) to produce acute (n = 10, 25 minutes RRVP) and chronic (n = 7, 14-16 days RRVP) CHF. Acute saline volume expansion was then performed in each group to determine the response of circulating ANF to acute increases in atrial pressure in both acute and chronic CHF. In chronic CHF, right atrial pressure was much higher than in acute CHF (8.5 +/- 0.9 vs. 3.4 +/- 1.3 mm Hg, p less than 0.05); however, circulating ANF was not greater in chronic as compared with acute CHF (385 +/- 73 vs. 500 +/- 89 pg/ml), which is consistent with an attenuated release of ANF in chronic CHF. In response to volume expansion, right atrial pressure increased in both acute (3.4 +/- 1.3 to 12.1 +/- 7 mm Hg) and chronic (8.5 +/- .9 to 13.3 +/- 1.0 mm Hg) CHF.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527646 TI - Isoproterenol-induced alterations in myocardial blood flow, systolic and diastolic function in conscious dogs with heart failure. AB - The effects of isoproterenol were examined in 10 conscious, chronically instrumented adult dogs with left ventricular (LV) failure after pressure overload hypertrophy induced by aortic banding at 8-10 weeks of age (LV free wall plus septum-to-body weight ratio, 8.6 +/- 0.5 g/kg) and also in eight control dogs (LV free wall plus septum-to-body weight ratio, 5.1 +/- 0.3 g/kg). Baseline values of heart rate, LV end-diastolic pressure, LV end-diastolic stress, and LV systolic wall stress were greater in the LV failure dogs (p less than 0.01), whereas the ejection phase index, rate of change of LV short-axis diameter, LV dD/dt, was depressed compared with control animals. In the control animals, isoproterenol infusion increased Vcf and LV dD/dt significantly (p less than 0.05), whereas LV systolic wall stress did not change. In the LV failure dogs, the increases in Vcf and LV dD/dt were less (p less than 0.01), and LV systolic wall stress increased (p less than 0.01). In the control animals, LV end diastolic pressure, LV end-diastolic stress, LV end-diastolic stress-dimension ratio, diastolic radial myocardial stiffness, and the time constant of isovolumic relaxation decreased (p less than 0.05), whereas in the LV failure dogs, LV end diastolic pressure, LV end-diastolic stress, diastolic radial myocardial stiffness, and the LV end-diastolic stress-dimension ratio increased. In the LV failure group, the endocardial to epicardial blood flow ratio fell to 0.59 +/- 0.06 during isoproterenol infusion, that is, significantly lower than in control dogs (0.93 +/- 0.06). These data support the concept that potent sympathomimetic amines exert deleterious effects on systolic and diastolic function in the failing heart, potentially related to subendocardial hypoperfusion. PMID- 2527647 TI - The "second generation" NHLBI Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty Registry. Have we established the role for PTCA in treating coronary artery disease? PMID- 2527648 TI - Serum lipoprotein levels fail to predict postangioplasty recurrent coronary artery stenosis. AB - A prospective study to explore the role of serum lipoproteins in the development of recurrent stenosis after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty was conducted on serum samples from 103 patients. Serum was collected at the time of angioplasty and evaluated for total cholesterol, total triglycerides (TG), high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and apolipoproteins A1 and B. In addition, LDL cholesterol/HDL cholesterol ratios and apolipoprotein B/A1 ratios were calculated for each sample. Information was then gathered from four years of follow-up after angioplasty, which was sufficient to establish the presence or absence of recurrent stenosis in 87 patients (68 males and 19 females). Stenosis recurred in 31 of the 87 patients (36%); the rate was similar for males (35%) and females (37%). Univariate analysis of the total patient population revealed no statistically significant difference in values for any of these lipoprotein parameters between success and recurrence groups. Likewise, multivariate analysis revealed no combination of lipoprotein values to be associated with success or recurrence. Findings were similar for the males alone and the total group of males and females. The female group was too small for separate statistical analysis. The power of this study to detect meaningful differences in each of these parameters except TG was at least 80%. These results do not support the hypothesis that lipoprotein factors influence the development of recurrent stenosis in patients undergoing coronary angioplasty. PMID- 2527649 TI - Risk factors for recurrent stenosis following successful coronary angioplasty. AB - The major limitation of coronary angioplasty is recurrent stenosis. Patient, clinical, and procedural factors at the time of angioplasty were correlated with the presence or absence of angiographically documented recurrent stenosis or continued patency. Patients with single-vessel, multilesion disease had a lower incidence of recurrence than those with single-vessel, single-lesion disease (22.2% v 37.3%). Patients with multivessel disease had the highest rate of recurrent stenosis (45%). Sex and age did not predict recurrence. Patients with more severe symptoms, patients without prior myocardial infarction (MI), and insulin-dependent diabetic patients were more likely to have recurrent stenosis. Of the lesion variables, a severe stenosis or a low gradient before angioplasty, the absence of an intimal tear after angioplasty, and left anterior descending artery lesions correlated with a higher recurrence rate. Inflation times greater than or equal to 30 seconds and a greater total number of inflations correlated with a higher recurrence rate. Multivariate analysis showed the following variables to be important predictors of recurrence: Canadian Heart Class, history of myocardial infarction, gradient before angioplasty, artery dilated, number of inflations, severity of stenosis before angioplasty, and insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. PMID- 2527650 TI - Catalase and glutathione peroxidase activity in cells with trisomy 21. AB - CuZnSOD is produced in overdose in cells with trisomy 21. This has been considered to be a cause of increased oxidative stress. In the present work we have studied the catalase and glutathione peroxidase activity in fibroblasts from 6, and blood cells from 30, subjects affected by Down syndrome. In the fibroblasts, catalase and glutathione peroxidase activities did not differ significantly from control cells. In platelets, lymphocytes, polymorphs and erythrocytes, no significant increase of catalase activity was found while glutathione peroxidase activity appeared significantly increased in platelets, polymorphs and erythrocytes but not in lymphocytes. These data seem to indicate that the increase of CuZnSOD in trisomy 21 cells does not affect the production of catalase. An increase, instead, of glutathione peroxidase has been detected in all blood cells, except in lymphocytes; this is a sign of a greater need for protection against the risk of lipoperoxidation. The fact that the enhancement of glutathione peroxidase activity could be assessed only in some types of cells examined suggests that the observed increase in those cells is probably a result of an additive effect of the overproduction of CuZnSOD due to gene dosage and the ordinarily higher content of oxygen radicals and peroxides. PMID- 2527651 TI - Quantification of macrophage cell surface molecules in rheumatoid arthritis. AB - The response of macrophages to stimulation by interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) in vitro is characterized by an increase in the cell surface expression of MHC class II HLA-DR antigen (HLA-DR) and the high-affinity Fc-receptor for immunoglobulin G (FcRI) while the expression of the C3b-receptor (CR1) is reduced. Based on these observations, we have examined further the possibility that IFN-gamma may modulate the activation of mononuclear phagocytes (Mph) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). As reported by others, we found low levels of IFN gamma in the synovial fluid of these patients (less than 0.3 IU/ml using radioimmunoassay). As an alternative means of establishing whether Mph are influenced by levels of IFN-gamma too low to measure directly, we have quantified the expression of membrane associated HLA-DR, FcRI and CR1 on cell populations isolated from synovial fluid and peripheral blood. The expression of these molecules by Mph is known to be influenced by IFN-gamma. We found that Mph isolated from the synovial fluid of patients with RA showed a significantly increased HLA-DR expression. Significantly less CR1 was associated with the synovial fluid Mph than with peripheral blood monocytes. However the expression of the FcRI by the synovial fluid Mph and peripheral blood monocyte populations was similar. The quantitative changes in HLA-DR and CR1 expression by synovial fluid Mph (but not those of FcRI) were consistent with those seen following IFN gamma activation of monocytes in vitro. While these results indicate that IFN gamma may have a role in activating the Mph present in synovial fluid, the apparent independent regulation of FcRI observed suggests other mediators may also be involved. PMID- 2527652 TI - 2-Mercaptoethanol and n-acetylcysteine enhance T cell colony formation in AIDS and ARC. AB - One contributing factor to the loss of T cells in AIDS may be the impaired ability of T cell precursors to expand, as reflected in a decreased ability of patient cells to form T cell colonies in agar. We and others have noted such a defect in people with AIDS and ARC, and have found that suppressor cells and suppressive plasma contribute to decreased T-CFC formation. We report here that the reducing agents 2-mercaptoethanol (2-ME) and n-acetyl cysteine (NAC) can enhance colony formation in vitro. In part, 2-ME can reverse the defect in T cell colony-forming cells (T-CFC) formation by overcoming the effect of suppressor cells. In a group of 46 AIDS patients, T-CFC formation was initially 42 +/- 8% (mean +/- s.e.) that of control levels. 2-ME caused an increase of 401 +/- 76% in T-CFC formation which was significantly greater than the increase in control T CFC formation; it also significantly enhanced T-CFC formation by cells from ARC patients. Suppressor cell activity from ten AIDS patients decreased from 58 +/- 21% to 12 +/- 10% when 2-ME was added. Similar data were obtained from 14 ARC patients. NAC, a related antioxidant with low toxicity, also enhanced T-CFC in cells of AIDS and ARC patients. Vitamin C generally did not increase T-CFC formation. The data suggest that certain antioxidants such as 2-ME and NAC may be useful in treatment protocols to enhance T cell numbers in patients with AIDS or ARC. PMID- 2527653 TI - Polyclonal proliferation of activated suppressor/cytotoxic T cells with transient depression of natural killer cell function in acute infectious mononucleosis. AB - In acute infectious mononucleosis large numbers of atypical lymphocytes proliferate in response to B cells infected with Epstein-Barr virus, generally resulting in a self-limited illness. Although both T-cells and NK cells are known to be involved, the precise origin of the large granular lymphocytes in this disorder is incompletely understood. Using two-colour immunofluorescent flow cytometry, we sequentially examined the phenotype of selected T cell and NK cell subsets from nine patients with infectious mononucleosis. In parallel, we determined whether these lymphocytes utilized a restricted repertoire of the T cell receptor gene and also measured their NK activity. Our results show that in acute infectious mononucleosis there was a greater than three-fold increase in T lymphocytes with the phenotype CD2+, CD3+, CD8+ and DR+. A modest increase in Leu7(HNK1)+ and CD4+ T cells was also seen. In addition, there was a three-fold increase in cells coexpressing CD3- and CD16+, the phenotype reported to represent most NK cells. In spite of this latter finding, however, a marked decrease in NK function was found at the time of diagnosis, gradually returning to normal by day 28. Finally, Southern blot analysis of DNA from patient lymphocytes showed polyclonal rearrangements of the T cell receptor beta chain gene. These studies indicate that the proliferation of activated suppressor/cytotoxic T lymphocytes in acute infectious mononucleosis is polyclonal and is associated with transient depression of NK function. PMID- 2527654 TI - Lymphocyte subpopulations in Bancroftian filariasis: activated (DR+) CD8+ T cells in patients with chronic lymphatic obstruction. AB - To examine the relationship between lymphocyte phenotypes and states of activation in patients with Bancroftian filariasis, dual colour flow cytometry and concurrent in vitro cell culture were performed on normal individuals (NV; n = 15), and on patients with either asymptomatic microfilaraemia (MF; n = 12) or elephantiasis (CP; n = 11). In contrast to findings by others in a population with Brugian filariasis, the percentages of total B lymphocytes (CD19), T lymphocytes (CD3), helper/inducer T lymphocytes (CD4), and suppressor/cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CD8) in both patient groups were found to be within the range defined by clinically normal individuals. Furthermore, there were no differences among the groups in the expression of the IL-2 receptor (CD25) on T cells. There was, however, a significantly greater proportion (P less than 0.01) of 'activated' cytotoxic/suppressor lymphocytes (defined by co-expression of CD8 and HLA-DR) in patients with elephantiasis (16.4 +/- 8.6%) than in the MF (8.9 +/- 2.6%) or NV (8.3 +/- 2.9%) groups. Further, when the expression of this activation antigen was examined in parallel with in vitro mitogen responsiveness, an inverse correlation between the percentage of CD8+ HLA-DR+ lymphocytes and pokeweed mitogen-induced proliferation was seen (r = -0.54; P less than 0.001). These data provide further definition of the immunoregulatory abnormalities seen in human filarial infections and suggest that activated CD8+ T lymphocytes may be involved in the pathogenesis of the chronic obstructed lymphatic form of this disease. PMID- 2527655 TI - Observations on a new non-invasive monitor of skin blood flow. AB - 1. A 'tissue perfusion monitor' (TPM) to non-invasively provide an index of skin blood flow (SkBF) has been developed; it employs photoelectric plethysmographic principles to measure changes in the nett flux of red blood cells in superficial microvasculature. 2. The 'tissue perfusion index' (TPI) varies in proportion to SkBF, provided local haemoglobin concentration does not change significantly. TPI of humans and experimental animals has been shown to indicate reliably, well established phenomena such as decreased SkBF in response to mechanical restriction, cold or Valsalva's manoeuvre, or increased SkBF in response to heat, acetylcholine, sodium nitrite or local nerve blockade. 3. SkBF in sheep was varied between 1 and 156 mL/100g per min as measured with radioactive microspheres. Simultaneous measurements were made using the TPM and four laser Doppler instruments. The TPI yielded a correlation coefficient of 0.938, and when data were expressed as percentage change, the regression line did not differ significantly from the line of identity and the root-mean-square-error was 6.2%. Data for the laser-Doppler indices of SkBF were, respectively, 0.549-0.786, highly significant deviations in slopes, and 13.6-16.7%. 4. Thus, the TPI is a reliable index of changes in SkBF. Compared with some other available instruments, the TPM is more precise; it is also less sensitive to movement artefact, can be completely portable by battery operation, probes can be multiplexed to a single meter and it is likely to be much less expensive than current lasers. 5. Applications include, for example, experimental investigations of SkBF in man and animals, clinical uses such as evaluation of the efficacy of regional nerve blockade or of circulatory restitution after reconstructive surgery, and clinical tests of neurovascular function. PMID- 2527656 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide levels in congestive heart failure in man before and during converting enzyme inhibition. AB - 1. To determine the response of plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) to treatment with an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor in heart failure, seven patients (NYHA Functional Class III-IV) were studied before and after the addition of ramipril to maintenance digoxin and diuretic treatment. 2. Baseline arterial ANP levels were raised, but fell during ramipril treatment in parallel with changes in both haemodynamic recordings (arterial pressure, pulmonary artery diastolic pressure, and right atrial pressure) and hormone levels (angiotensin II and aldosterone). 3. Coronary sinus ANP, measured in three patients, was greater than concomitant arterial levels, and the coronary sinus ANP secretion rate was calculated to be between 15 and 119 pmol/min. 4. These results demonstrate that improvement in haemodynamic function during ACE inhibitor treatment is associated with a decline in elevated ANP levels, and support the concept that atrial stretch or pressure regulates the secretion of atrial peptides in man. PMID- 2527657 TI - Renal effects of atrial natriuretic factor (99-126) in water-deprived sheep. AB - 1. The renal response to renal arterial infusion of synthetic human atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) (99-126) at 50 micrograms/h was examined in conscious sheep dehydrated by 48 h water deprivation and was compared with the response of normally hydrated animals. 2. Renal arterial infusion of ANF produced increases in the excretion of Na, K, Ca and urine in both dehydrated and normally hydrated animals, although the effect was significantly blunted in dehydrated animals compared with normally hydrated animals. 3. The attenuation of renal effects of ANF in dehydrated animals is probably due to the negative sodium and/or fluid balance of the dehydrated animals. PMID- 2527658 TI - T helper cell-induced CD23 (BLAST-2) expression: an activation marker for the high density fraction of human B cells. AB - We previously reported that the coculture of cloned, allospecific human T helper (Th) cells with allogenic B cells bearing the relevant major histocompatibility complex class II antigen induces expression of the B cell activation antigen CD23 (BLAST-2) on a fraction of the B cells. To determine if Th cell-induced CD23 expression defines a distinct subset of human B cells, allospecific Th cells were cultured with B cell fractions isolated on discontinuous Percoll gradients. Our results show that the majority of high density resting B cells, those bearing surface IgD and little of the 4F2 activation antigen, express high intensity CD23 after culture with relevant allospecific Th cells. Essentially all of the low density, presumably in vivo-activated, B cell subpopulation and a fraction of the high density B cell pool remain CD23 negative after repeated culture with relevant allospecific Th cells. We utilized the CD23 induction assay to investigate a potential synergistic effect in B cell activation mediated by Th cell signaling and antigen analog-induced cross-linking of B cell surface Ig receptors. These studies show that phorbols known to result in PKC activation, one of the biochemical consequences of sIg-mediated B cell signaling, enhance both the intensity of CD23 expression and the percentage of cells expressing CD23 after allospecific Th cell or IL-4 interaction with high density, but not low density B cells. Finally, we show that while Th-induced B cell activation, as measured by CD23 expression, is a property of high density B cells, induction of Th cell proliferation is a property of the low density B cell population. These results suggest that the antigen-specific interaction between Th cells and resting B cells may serve to activate the B cell in preference to the T cell. PMID- 2527659 TI - Onchocerciasis and dracunculosis. AB - Onchocerciasis is a disease of Africa and Central and South America. It produces severe skin disease and is a leading cause of blindness worldwide. Dracunculosis infection, caused by the guinea worm Dracunculosis medinensis, occurs in tropical Africa. Included in this article are discussions of the vector and transmission, pathology, immunology, diagnosis, and treatment of these two diseases. PMID- 2527660 TI - Long-term efficacy of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty on incidence of myocardial infarction, relief of symptoms and survival. AB - This study was conducted to determine the long-term effects of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) on the incidence of myocardial infarction, survival, and relief of symptoms. A total of 124 patients were included in the study and were followed for 16 to 25 months. The success rate of PTCA was 91.2% and 160 stenoses were dilated. Fifty-nine patients had multivessel disease (MVD) and 54 had single-vessel disease (SVD). There was no difference in survival when patients with SVD were compared with those with MVD. The cardiac survival rate for both groups was greater than 98%. Nine patients had myocardial infarction in the area of the dilated artery: 3 patients (5.5%) with SVD and 6 patients (10.1%) with MVD. Ninety-six patients (84.9%) remained free of symptoms: 46 patients (85.2%) with SVD and 50 patients (84.7%) with MVD. These data demonstrate the long-term efficacy of PTCA in patients with SVD and MVD with regard to control of symptom of angina, improved survival, and prevention of myocardial infarction. PMID- 2527661 TI - Does nitroglycerin induce heparin resistance? AB - We studied the possibility that intravenous nitroglycerin may produce heparin resistance both in vitro and prospectively in a group of 10 patients following coronary angioplasty. Nitroglycerin in physiologic to pharmacologic concentrations (41-250 micrograms/ml) did not produce heparin resistance in vitro as measured by activated partial thromboplastin time and thrombin time. The maximum reduction in activated partial thromboplastin time was 7%. In patient studies, the activated partial thromboplastin time at baseline on heparin alone (93 + 22 s) was not significantly different (p = 0.61) from activated partial thromboplastin measured upon addition of nitroglycerin (94 +/- 27 s) or 30 min following cessation of the nitroglycerin infusion while continuing the same dose of heparin (91 +/- 24 s). We conclude that intravenous nitroglycerin does not induce heparin resistance in vitro or in patients during short-term administration. PMID- 2527662 TI - Protective effect of p-chlorophenylalanine in glycerol-induced acute renal failure in rats. AB - 1. Studies were conducted to test the hypothesis that glycerol-induced acute renal failure in rats may be mediated by 5-hydroxytryptamine. 2. The tryptophan hydroxylase inhibitor, p-chlorophenylalanine, or saline was administered for 4 days before performance of 24 h clearance studies after glycerol administration. 3. p-Chlorophenylalanine significantly reduced the nephrotoxic effect of glycerol, as evidenced by improved glomerular filtration rate, urine volume excretion and absolute sodium excretion, and reduced plasma creatinine concentration. 4. These results suggest that glycerol-induced acute renal failure may be mediated by the renovascular and/or tubular actions of 5 hydroxytryptamine. PMID- 2527663 TI - Increased plasma atrial natriuretic factor and reduced plasma renin in patients with poorly controlled diabetes mellitus. AB - 1. To investigate atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) and its relationship to the renin system in diabetes, we measured plasma immunoreactive ANF and plasma renin activity (PRA) in 27 non-ketotic diabetic patients without evidence of cardiac or overt renal disease, and compared them with 26 age- and sex-matched normal subjects. 2. Diabetic patients were divided prospectively into poor (PGC, n = 14) or moderate (MGC, n = 13) glycaemic control depending on their concurrent plasma glycohaemoglobin (HbA1) levels (greater than 9% or less than 9%, respectively). Plasma ANF was elevated in PGC diabetic patients (15.7 +/- 1.8 fmol/ml, mean +/- SEM) compared with MGC diabetics (9.9 +/- 0.8 fmol/ml, P less than 0.001) and normal subjects (10.1 +/- 1.3 fmol/ml, P less than 0.05). 3. In contrast, PRA was lower in the PGC diabetic patients (1.3 +/- 0.3 pmol of angiotensin 1 h-1 ml-1) compared with the other groups (2.5 +/- 0.5 and 2.1 +/- 0.2 pmol of angiotensin I h-1 ml-1, P less than 0.05). Diabetic groups had proportionally more patients with high prorenin values (over 30 ng h-1 ml-1) than the normal group, but there was no difference between the diabetic groups. 4. Among the diabetic patients, ANF was directly related to HbA1 (r = 0.49, P less than 0.005) and urinary albumin excretion (r = 0.40, P less than 0.02), and was inversely related to PRA (r = 0.36, P less than 0.04) and plasma creatinine (r = -0.42, P less than 0.02).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527664 TI - A broader approach to reducing back disability. PMID- 2527665 TI - Mithramycin therapy for resistant hypercalcaemia in transformed chronic granulocytic leukaemia. PMID- 2527666 TI - [Medium term study of the efficacy of propafenone in the treatment of hyperkinetic ventricular arrhythmia]. AB - The purpose of our study was to evaluate the therapeutic and preventive action of propafenone on ventricular hyperkinetic arrhythmias (VHAs). 26 patients with VHAs have undergone a follow-up over a period of 90 days. Controls by means of dynamic electrocardiography (Holter) took place in baseline condition and on the 30th, 60th and 90th day of treatment. All patients were initially treated with 450 mg of P daily. According to the result of the first and second control, the P dosage was increased to 600 and 900 mg for those patients who failed to show any improvement. 88% of the patients showed a considerable improvement: 69% were free from arrhythmias and 33% exhibited a significant reduction. At the dose of 450 mg, P proved to be effective in 72% of cases; in the follow-up period a further increase in the effectiveness of the treatment was observed. The same trend resulted also from the observation of the patients treated with 600 and 900 mg. We can therefore confirm the effectiveness and tolerability of P as a first choice treatment of VHAs. PMID- 2527667 TI - [Chemico-experimental data on the principal bile constituents in patients with obstructive jaundice]. AB - Bile samples from patients suffering from cholestasis were tested. Cholesterol, phospholipids, and bile acids (cholic, lithocholic, deoxycholic, chenodeoxycholic) were measured and the methods for the gas-chromatographic determination of cholesterol and major bile acids as well as for the colorimetric determination of phosphorus in phospholipids of human bile are described in extenso. Bile samplings were first carried out on the day the drainage tube was positioned and were repeated every 5 days for four times. Between the first and the last sampling, 1250 mg of phosphatidylcholine was intravenously administered to each patient daily. The aim of the experiment was to evaluate the possible variations in the bile constituents occurring over the specified time. PMID- 2527668 TI - [Acute myocardial infarction in elderly subjects. Significance of risk factors and method of presenting the clinical picture in the analysis of a cohort at a coronary care unit]. AB - Acute myocardial infarction in the elderly shows epidemiological and clinical features different from those observed in the same pathology in the young-adult subject. In this study, the authors compare literature data with their experience of 309 subjects aged greater than or equal to 65 years vs. 268 controls. All these patients were hospitalized for acute myocardial infarction in an Intensive Care Unit. Risk factors, symptomatology at onset, lesion site and survival in the Intensive Care Unit were examined. Our study establishes that cardiologists need special diagnostic accuracy to evaluate coronary artery disease in old patients. PMID- 2527669 TI - [Sulglicotide in non-ulcerous dyspepsia]. AB - In an open study, the clinical efficacy of sulglycotide was tested in patients with non-ulcerous dyspepsia (NUD). Outpatients with dyspeptic symptoms of at least 3-months' standing were entered into the study; diagnosis was based on history, clinical findings and endoscopy. Forty-four patients could be evaluated after 8 weeks' treatment with sulglycotide (200 mg t.i.d. orally). Treatment results were checked endoscopically and on the basis of changes in subjective symptoms (heartburn, epigastric pain, nausea, vomiting, postprandial sense of fullness, eructations, regurgitation, all of which were quantified on an analogic scale from 0 = absent to 3 = intense). Treatment with sulglycotide led to marked and significant improvement of clinical symptoms of NUD (p less than 0.05 vs. baseline) and of macroscopic endoscopic findings recorded at entry. It is concluded that sulglycotide is a valid therapeutic choice for patients suffering from NUD. PMID- 2527670 TI - [Clinical and therapeutic considerations on hepatic encephalopathy]. AB - Impairment of consciousness in liver encephalopathy ranges from slight anomalies to clinically manifest coma. Since the triggering causes are extremely varied and often include dietary errors and/or medication, it is extremely important for the physician to be able to identify the initial signs so as the to start the appropriate treatment. After reviewing the etiopathogenesis and pathology of liver encephalopathy, the authors list the possibilities for medical management which often lead to satisfactory results. PMID- 2527671 TI - [Obesity and eating behavior]. PMID- 2527672 TI - ICD coding; what's in a number? PMID- 2527673 TI - How does maternal diabetes disrupt embryonic and fetal development? PMID- 2527674 TI - Data source automation: new technology for the management of patient-generated test results. AB - Self-monitoring of blood glucose is widely accepted by patients today, but its usefulness to clinicians has been seriously limited by our inability to interpret the patient-generated data. It is difficult or impossible to make optimal use of hand-kept diaries, no matter how compulsively kept. Patterns elude us, summaries are inaccurate, and large blocks of data are almost entirely ignored. To remedy these problems, data source automation--the automatic recording of data at their site of origin--is being applied to diabetes. Meters will measure blood glucose and memorize the result, date, and time of day. One system even allows the patient to record insulin dosage, exercise, and diet. The advantage of these systems lies in their potential for data management. Recognition of patterns of blood glucose concentration, easy longitudinal comparison of data, and aggregation of large data bases are all facilitated by computerized manipulation of the stored data. In-hospital use of glucose meters can have better documented quality control. It is possible to communicate data to physicians by telephone modem. Effective use of these systems, though, requires convenient software; and their acceptance in actual clinical practice must be demonstrated. But data management capabilities, as they are refined and brought into common use, could significantly improve diabetic management. PMID- 2527675 TI - Effect of enprostil on glucose and lipid metabolism in type 2 diabetes. AB - Enprostil, a dehydro-prostaglandin E2 analogue, has been tested as treatment for peptic ulcer. Its effect on blood glucose and lipid metabolism in Type 2 diabetes was assessed in a randomized, double-blind trial. Fifteen patients on sulphonylurea therapy received, in addition, enprostil 35 micrograms or placebo thrice daily for two weeks, with a 2-week wash-out before crossover. Data from 12 patients were analysed. After a 530 Cal test breakfast at the end of active treatment, plasma glucose rose from a fasting concentration similar to that after the last placebo dose (10.5 +/- 0.8 (+/- SE) and 10.6 +/- 1.1 mmol l-1 respectively) to 1, 2 and 3 h concentrations which were 1.5 to 2.1 mmol l-1 lower than on placebo (2 h concentration 14.6 +/- 0.9 vs 16.4 +/- 1.3 mmol l-1, p less than 0.05). Serum fructosamine concentrations at the end of active treatment and placebo were 3.66 +/- 0.22 and 3.78 +/- 0.24 respectively (p = 0.051). No changes in fasting or post-prandial insulin concentrations were observed. After 2 weeks of enprostil, fasting serum triglyceride (1.76 +/- 0.18 mmol l-1) and total cholesterol (6.27 +/- 0.29 mmol l-1) concentrations were lower than after placebo (2.14 +/- 0.25 and 7.35 +/- 0.46 mmol l-1, p = 0.031 and p = 0.002, respectively), the latter effect being primarily due to reduced LDL cholesterol.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527676 TI - Co-occurrence of hypercalciuria and hypouricaemia in type 2 diabetic patients. AB - The relationship between the urinary excretion of calcium (Ca2+) and uric acid was investigated in 151 Type 2 diabetic patients and 48 normal subjects. In the diabetic patients, uric acid clearance/creatinine clearance (Clurate/Clcr) was higher and the serum level of uric acid was lower than in the normal subjects (Clurate/Clcr: 10.9 +/- 5.8 vs 8.1 +/- 2.6%, p less than 0.001; serum uric acid: 3.4 +/- 86 vs 357 +/- 89 mumol l-1, p less than 0.001). Calcium clearance/Clcr (Clca/Clcr) also increased in the diabetic patients, as did urinary excretion rate, but the serum Ca2+ level was not different to normal control subjects (Clca/Clcr: 2.29 +/- 1.59 vs 1.56 +/- 0.98%, p less than 0.001; Ca2+ excretion rate: 2.24 +/- 1.67 vs 1.63 +/- 1.11 mmol day-1, p less than 0.01; serum Ca2+ level: 2.34 +/- 0.11 vs 2.33 +/- 0.08 mmol l-1). In the diabetic patients, Clcr positively and the serum uric acid negatively correlated with the urinary excretion of Ca2+ (p less than 0.001 for both correlations in the multivariate regression analysis). These data suggest that the diabetic patients have increased fractional excretion of both Ca2+ and uric acid. PMID- 2527677 TI - Comparison of methods for determination of microalbuminuria in diabetic patients. AB - Microalbuminuria is an early marker of prognostic significance in diabetic renal disease. The aim of the present study was to compare methods which do not require radioactive markers for estimating microalbuminuria (20-300 mg l-1) with a radioimmunoassay for albumin estimation. Albumin concentrations of 329 diabetic patients were measured using two laser turbidimetric methods for albuminuria and proteinuria, two semiquantitative tests (Albusure and Albustix), and a routine albumin radioimmunoassay. The four methods in the order laser immunoturbidimetric for albuminuria, laser turbidimetric for proteinuria, Albusure and Albustix gave the following results: sensitivity 0.97, 0.93, 0.97 and 0.81; specificity 0.92, 0.88, 0.94 and 0.55; positive predictive value for microalbuminuria 0.83, 0.75, 0.85 and 0.42; negative predictive value for microalbuminuria 0.99, 0.97, 0.99 and 0.88. We suggest that both laser turbidimetric methods are reliable and can replace methods with radioactive markers, the same being true for the Albusure test. PMID- 2527678 TI - Efficacy and acceptance of two intensified conventional insulin therapy regimens: a long-term cross-over comparison. AB - The efficacy and acceptability of multiple daily insulin injections (three preprandial injections of short-acting insulin (NovoPen) plus once daily extended acting insulin) were compared with those of twice daily injections of short- and intermediate-acting insulin. Sixteen Type 1 diabetic patients participated in a cross-over study (6-month treatment periods). Total areas under 24-h plasma free insulin curves, assessed at the end of each study period, were not significantly different, but a greater area under this curve was found for the pen-injector regimen from 1200 to 1600 h (150 +/- 15 (SE) vs 106 +/- 7 mU l-1 h, p less than 0.01). Home blood glucose profiles showed significantly lower values with pen injector therapy after lunch (7.1 +/- 0.6 vs 8.4 +/- 0.4 mmol l-1, p = 0.05) and before and after dinner (6.4 +/- 0.6 vs 8.8 +/- 0.5 mmol l-1, p less than 0.005, and 7.5 +/- 0.7 vs 9.4 +/- 1.1 mmol l-1, p less than 0.05). Mean daily blood glucose concentration was also lower (7.1 +/- 0.4 vs 8.2 +/- 0.5 mmol l-1, p less than 0.05). HbA1, fructosamine, hypoglycaemic reactions, and body weight were not significantly different. Thirteen patients decided to continue with pen-injector therapy at the end of the study. PMID- 2527679 TI - Activity of the unstimulated renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system in type 1 diabetic patients with and without proteinuria. AB - There have been conflicting reports of the activity of the renin-angiotensin aldosterone system in diabetes. We studied the activity of the unstimulated renin angiotensin-aldosterone system in 73 consecutive Type 1 diabetic patients with varying degrees of albuminuria. Patients with elevated albumin excretion rates had elevated median plasma renin activity (macroalbuminuric 2.2, range 0.5-8.2, p less than 0.05; microalbuminuric 2.3, 0.7-7.1, p less than 0.001; vs normoalbuminuric 1.0, 0.2-4.5 nmol l-1 h-1) and higher systolic blood pressure (macroalbuminuric 141 +/- 27 vs normoalbuminuric 116 +/- 13 mmHg, mean +/- SD, p less than 0.01) compared with those with normal albumin excretion rates. Aldosterone secretion and function were normal in all patients studied. PMID- 2527680 TI - Abnormal foot pressures alone may not cause ulceration. AB - Both rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes have been associated with the development of abnormally high pressures under the feet, and ulceration has been considered to be a problem in both conditions. In order to examine further the relationship between high foot pressure, neurological abnormalities, and ulceration, we have studied two groups of patients: (a) 38 diabetic patients and (b) 37 patients with rheumatoid arthritis who had similar clinical abnormalities of the feet. Thirty two percent of diabetic patients had a history of plantar ulceration compared with none of the rheumatoid group (p less than 0.01). However, the diabetic group had considerably more severe neuropathy (peroneal nerve motor conduction velocity 35.4 +/- 4.8 m s-1 vs 44.4 +/- 5.2 m s-1 (mean +/- SD), p less than 0.001; vibration perception threshold 33.5 +/- 13.4 vs 16.9 +/- 10.9, p less than 0.001), with a similar frequency of elevated plantar pressures (51% vs 61%, NS). These data emphasize the importance of the loss of sensory awareness in the pathogenesis of diabetic foot ulceration, and suggest that high pressure alone is not a direct cause of ulceration. PMID- 2527682 TI - Islet cell antibodies and insulin autoantibodies in patients treated with oral hypoglycaemic agents. AB - Clinical and immunological features suggesting Type 1 diabetes were assessed in 202 patients treated with oral hypoglycaemic agents for presumed Type 2 diabetes. Islet cell antibodies (ICA) were detected at a level exceeding 5 JDF units in 5.9% of patients, and complement-fixing ICA were detected in 3.4%. IgG insulin autoantibodies were detected in 8.8% of insulin-naive patients, none of whom were ICA positive. ICA were detected more frequently in patients with shorter duration of diabetes (p = 0.02). Age and relative body weight were similar in ICA positive and negative groups. ICA positive patients were more likely to have lost weight (p less than 0.02) than ICA negative patients, although this may have been attributable to the differing duration of diabetes in the two groups. Other individual clinical features suggesting Type 1 diabetes were not significantly more frequent in ICA positive patients. However, a higher proportion of ICA positive than ICA negative patients had one or more features suggestive of Type 1 diabetes irrespective of the duration of diabetes. Clinical features suggesting Type 2 diabetes were present in a similar proportion of ICA positive and ICA negative patients. Fasting and glucagon stimulated C-peptide levels were similar in ICA positive and matched ICA negative patients. PMID- 2527681 TI - Coronary artery disease, HDL cholesterol, and insulin-gene flanking sequences. AB - The relationship between coronary artery disease, HDL cholesterol, and the hypervariable region flanking the human insulin gene was studied in Saudi Arabian non-diabetic subjects (n = 68) and in patients with Type 2 diabetes (n = 35). A locus of insulin-gene-linked DNA polymorphism with three average size classes of alleles was found: a small class 1, a rare medium size class 2, and a large class 3 allele. In the total group of subjects (n = 103), those with the class 3 allele had a lower plasma HDL cholesterol concentration than those without the class 3 allele (0.93 +/- 0.26 vs 1.12 +/- 0.30 mmol l-1, 2p less than 0.003). No difference in genotype and allelic frequency was found between patients with and without coronary artery disease in the combined group of subjects, with and without diabetes. Similarly the genotype distribution was not different between non-diabetic subjects and patients with Type 2 diabetes in the combined group of subjects, both with and without coronary artery disease. In conclusion, the study did not confirm a previous study showing an association between the class 3 allele and atherosclerosis in a Caucasian population. However, the class 3 allele was associated with a low plasma HDL cholesterol concentration. PMID- 2527683 TI - Brittle diabetes in the elderly. AB - The term 'brittle diabetes' is now commonly used to describe patients whose lives are disrupted by major variations in metabolic control, whatever their cause. Most reports have focused on the occurrence of such problems in young people, but little attention has been paid to brittle diabetes occurring in elderly patients. We describe six such cases and comment on differences in aetiology and management when compared with younger patients. Although less rigorous objectives for tight blood glucose control as compared with younger people, and more ready acceptance of insulin administration being supervised by another person, such as a district nurse, may reduce swings in blood glucose control in the elderly, accidental mismanagement by the patient as a result of incipient or established senile dementia may be an important factor in generating instability, as was evident in three cases. In one instance, the onset of unstable diabetic control was the earliest clinical feature of mental deterioration. PMID- 2527684 TI - The introduction of a quality assessment scheme for extra-laboratory blood glucose analysis. AB - An external quality assessment scheme is described for on-ward testing of blood glucose by nursing staff using the Glucometer II/Glucostix system. This involved the distribution of two concentrations of glucose solutions to the wards at 2 week intervals. Initially, results were examined prior to the introduction of a formal training programme for use of the blood glucose meters when the hospital CV was 25% (low glucose) and 19% (high glucose). Some improvement was shown after 6 months, with CVs of 13 and 8%, and a greater improvement after 12 months with CVs of 6 and 8%, respectively. A ward report was designed to allow easy interpretation of performance by the participants in the scheme. The introduction of this report was well received and generated enthusiasm among the ward staff. PMID- 2527685 TI - Hypoglycaemic brittle diabetes successfully managed by social worker intervention. AB - The case is presented of a 39-year-old Type 1 diabetic patient of 22 years duration with recurrent hypoglycaemic comas. He was of unusual personality and had bizarre ideas on self-regulation of his diabetes, resulting in wide variations of insulin dosage. In one 12-month period he had 88 separate admissions to an emergency department with severe hypoglycaemic coma requiring intravenous glucose administration. The cycle of admissions was eventually broken by the intervention of a social worker, who provided structured non-medical support. The patient's diabetic misconceptions remained, but he appeared to gain sufficient insight to prevent recurrent hypoglycaemia. PMID- 2527686 TI - Proliferative diabetic retinopathy in a patient with maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY). AB - Maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) has been described as being characteristically free from severe complications. This has led to speculation that the type of diabetes may be important in the pathogenesis of complications in diabetes. We report a case of classical MODY in which severe proliferative diabetic retinopathy developed. The retinopathy was detected shortly after the diagnosis of diabetes was made when the patient was 32 years old, and did not progress subsequently. No further complications developed during the subsequent 29 years in which normal postprandial plasma glucose levels were maintained with chlorpropamide therapy (mean 4.7, range 4.1-6.0 mmol I-1). This case demonstrates that severe retinopathy can occur in MODY and we suggest that in this patient there may have been a period of hyperglycaemia prior to diagnosis which was sufficient to lead to the microvascular complication. PMID- 2527687 TI - Bilateral renal cortical abscesses in a young woman with type 1 diabetes. AB - Serious complications of urinary tract infection, such as papillary necrosis or perinephric abscess, occur more frequently in diabetic patients. However, severe bilateral renal parenchymal infection with multiple intrarenal abscesses is not well recognized. We described an 18-year-old insulin-dependent diabetic woman with such infection, in whom renal imaging showed progression to a major perinephric abscess, but only after 5 weeks of intensive antibiotic therapy. Complete recovery followed surgical drainage and no renal cortical scarring was present on computerized tomographic scan 18 months later. PMID- 2527689 TI - Dietary regulation in people with abnormal glucose tolerance. PMID- 2527688 TI - Diene conjugates and microangiopathy. PMID- 2527690 TI - Serum fructosamine after death. PMID- 2527691 TI - Pneumomediastinum during diabetic ketoacidosis. PMID- 2527692 TI - Type 2 diabetes and Reaven's syndrome. PMID- 2527693 TI - Islet amyloid and type 2 diabetes. PMID- 2527695 TI - Foot bearing pressure in patients with unilateral diabetic foot ulcers. AB - Foot ulceration due to neuropathy is a serious cause of morbidity in diabetes. Ulceration usually occurs at the part of the foot subjected to excessive mechanical pressure. A more generalized increase in pressure under the feet has also been shown to be a feature of many patients with diabetic neuropathy. In this study the electrodynogram was used to measure the pressure at seven positions under each foot. The maximum vertical foot bearing pressure was found to be higher in 11 diabetic patients with previously healed unilateral foot ulcers (10.6 +/- 5.9 kg cm-2) than in 11 diabetic patients who did not have such a history (4.2 +/- 1.3 kg cm-2). However there was no difference in pressure between the foot with previous ulceration and the contralateral foot (9.7 +/- 6.8 kg cm-2, 11.6 +/- 7.9 kg cm-2). Vertical foot bearing pressure was decreased by an average of 18% by wearing shoes padded with a Professional Protective Technology insole and the decrease was greater in patients with higher foot pressure. These results showed that increased vertical foot pressure is an important, but not the only, factor in determining the occurrence of foot ulcer. PMID- 2527694 TI - Nicotinamide increases C-peptide secretion in patients with recent onset type 1 diabetes. AB - Nicotinamide, a poly-(ADP-ribose) synthetase inhibitor, has been shown in animal models to induce islet B-cell regeneration. An open controlled trial was therefore carried out for 1 year in 36 patients with recent onset (less than 4 weeks symptoms) Type 1 diabetes. Twenty-three patients were treated with nicotinamide (200 mg daily) in addition to insulin, and 13 control patients were treated with insulin alone. Metabolic and immunological variables at entry were similar in the two groups. A significant increase of stimulated plasma C-peptide levels compared to diagnosis was observed only in the nicotinamide treated group (1.4 +/- 0.3 (+/- SE) micrograms l-1 at diagnosis vs 2.4 +/- 0.4 at 6 months, p less than 0.04; and 3.0 +/- 0.5 at 1 year, p less than 0.01). Patients receiving nicotinamide had lower glycosylated haemoglobin levels at 6 months and 1 year compared to the control group (p less than 0.04 and p less than 0.03, respectively) although insulin dose was lower. Small doses of nicotinamide may be successful in improving metabolic control in recent onset Type 1 diabetes, probably by increasing residual islet B-cell function. PMID- 2527696 TI - Raised ankle/brachial pressure index in insulin-treated diabetic patients. AB - The ankle/brachial blood pressure index (A/B PI) is important in the vascular laboratory assessment of peripheral vascular disease. However it is falsely elevated in diabetes, hence underestimating the true severity of disease. We have therefore examined the influence of diabetes on the A/B PI in 2092 patients, 538 with diabetes, all referred for evaluation of peripheral vascular disease. The prevalence of a raised A/B PI (greater than or equal to 1.5) in insulin-treated patients (18.3%) was much higher (p less than 0.001) than that in both non insulin-treated diabetic patients (4.5%) and patients with no diabetes (2.8%). Insulin-treated patients with a duration of diabetes of greater than 30 years had a higher prevalence of raised A/B PI than those with a duration of less than or equal to 9 years. No significant age effects were seen. PMID- 2527697 TI - Ambulatory blood pressure and heart rate in diabetic patients: an assessment of autonomic function. AB - In order to examine the physiological variation in blood pressure and heart rate that occurs during normal activities in patients with diabetes, 24-h profiles were constructed from continuous ambulatory recordings. Isometric and dynamic tests were also performed. The patients were subdivided into 25 uncomplicated cases, 11 with peripheral neuropathy and 6 with autonomic neuropathy. These were compared with a 'control' group of 22 normal subjects. Abnormal 24-h blood pressure profiles were found particularly in the patients with autonomic neuropathy. This group had attenuation or reversal of the usual diurnal rhythm, blood pressure often rising during the night and falling in the early morning. Diurnal heart rate variation was reduced in all three groups of patients. Blood pressure responses to both forms of exercise were also significantly reduced in the autonomic neuropathy group (maximum change in systolic blood pressure during isometric exercise was 10 +/- 4 mmHg vs 36 +/- 3 mmHg in the control group, p less than 0.003). Patients with peripheral neuropathy also had some impairment of exercise-induced blood pressure changes, but to a lesser degree. PMID- 2527698 TI - Symptomatic awareness of hypoglycaemia: does it change on transfer from animal to human insulin? AB - A retrospective survey of symptomatic awareness of hypoglycaemia was performed in 189 randomly selected patients with insulin-treated diabetes who had been transferred from highly purified animal insulins to human insulin in the preceding 24 months. Of the 189 patients 44 (23%) complained of chronic hypoglycaemic unawareness, unrelated to ambient blood glucose control, before change of insulin species. Only 12 of the remaining 145 patients reported a reduction in awareness of hypoglycaemia following transfer to human insulin (6% of the whole group), while 6 (3%) reported an increase in awareness following the transfer. The 12 patients reporting reduced awareness had a mean duration of diabetes of 24 +/ 10 years compared to a duration of 15 +/- 10 years in the patients with normal awareness. The mean glycosylated haemoglobin concentrations were similar in all of the groups of patients. Six patients had developed total loss of awareness of the onset of hypoglycaemia, with all but one patient having suffered multiple episodes of severe hypoglycaemia. This reduced hypoglycaemic awareness on human insulin therapy was not associated with any significant improvement in blood glucose control. PMID- 2527699 TI - A controlled study of the effect of computer-aided analysis of home blood glucose monitoring on blood glucose control. AB - A 6-month study of the effects on blood glucose control of computer-aided analysis of glucose self-monitoring results was performed. Eighteen clinically insulin-dependent patients were ranked in order of haemoglobin A1 and randomly allocated in consecutive pairs to either a conventional group, using diaries to record self-monitoring meter-read results, or a memory group using meters with inbuilt memories which were linked to a computer at each visit for the analysis of self-monitoring results. There was a significant decline in haemoglobin A1 (p less than 0.001) and fructosamine (p = 0.002) over the 6-month period in the whole population but there was no difference between the study groups. The absolute or percentage changes in haemoglobin A1 and fructosamine did not correlate significantly with any of the patient characteristics examined. The memory system was popular with the patients. At present no benefit in terms of blood glucose control from such systems has been demonstrated. PMID- 2527700 TI - Effects of short-term strict metabolic control on kidney function and extracellular fluid volume in incipient diabetic nephropathy. AB - The effects of strict metabolic control (multiple insulin injections for 1 week) on urinary albumin excretion, glomerular filtration rate and extracellular fluid volume was evaluated in long-term Type 1 diabetic patients with (n = 9) and without (n = 10) incipient nephropathy. Investigations were carried out in poor (blood glucose 15 (interquartile range, 13-18) mmol l-1) and good metabolic control (5 (4-8) mmol l-1). In patients with incipient nephropathy glomerular filtration rate was 125 (SD 26) (poor control) vs 125 (20) ml min-1 (good control), urinary albumin excretion 60 (range 37-247) vs 60 (13-359) mg 24 h-1, fractional albumin clearance 6.1 (0.9-67.6) vs 6.7 (2.1-65.4) x 10(-6), extracellular fluid volume 13.4 (2.3) vs 14.3 (2.8) l (p less than 0.10). Apart from an increase in extracellular fluid volume during improved metabolic control (12.2 (1.6) vs 13.6 (2.5) l, p less than 0.02) all the above mentioned variables remained unchanged in the patients with normal urinary albumin excretion. In conclusion, strict metabolic control for 2-7 days has no effect on urinary albumin excretion and glomerular filtration rate in long-term Type 1 diabetic patients with or without incipient diabetic nephropathy. PMID- 2527701 TI - Elevated neuropeptide Y concentrations in the central hypothalamus of the spontaneously diabetic BB/E Wistar rat. AB - Insulin-deficient diabetes causes hypothalamic and pituitary dysfunction. The possible role of hypothalamic regulatory peptides in mediating these disturbances was investigated in spontaneously diabetic BB/E Wistar rats. Concentrations of 10 regulatory peptides were measured in the central (nucleus-rich) and lateral parts of the hypothalamus in 18 diabetic and 5 non-diabetic BB/E rats. Diabetic rats were treated with either intensified or low-dose insulin schedules to achieve moderate or severe hyperglycaemia (mean blood glucose concentrations, 8 and 20 mmol l-1 respectively). Neuropeptide Y concentration and content in the central hypothalamus were increased by 30-40% in both moderately and severely hyperglycaemic diabetic groups (p less than 0.01). Lateral hypothalamic neuropeptide Y levels did not differ significantly between the groups. The only other peptide to show any significant difference between diabetic and control rats was calcitonin gene-related peptide, whose central hypothalamic concentrations were significantly increased in the severely hyperglycaemic animals. Alterations of hypothalamic neuropeptide Y, which has potent experimental effects on hypothalamo-pituitary function, may contribute to certain neuroendocrine disturbances in insulin-deficient diabetes. PMID- 2527702 TI - Diabetes in the elderly: the Oxford Community Diabetes Study. AB - Most diabetic patients are elderly but their clinical characteristics remain poorly defined. A population survey identified 259 known diabetic patients aged 60 years or more giving a prevalence of 3% in this age group. A total of 193 patients (75%) were interviewed and examined, 155 (80%) of whom had been diagnosed at under 70 years of age. Forty-two patients (22%) were insulin-treated but clinical characteristics suggested that at least 95% of all elderly patients had Type 2 diabetes. Blood glucose control was poor with median HbA1 9.7% (range 4.9-17.1%, normal reference range 5.0-7.5%), and 55% were either overweight or obese. There was a high morbidity from diabetes and other conditions: the prevalence of hypertension (untreated blood pressure of 160/95 mmHg or more or antihypertensive medication) was 52%, of stroke 5%, of nephropathy (urinary albumin concentration greater than or equal to 300 mg l-1) 3%, of lower limb amputations 4%, and of foot ulcers 7%. The prevalence of symmetrically impaired distal vibration perception was 23%, and 54% of patients either needed or were receiving chiropody. The prevalence of a corrected distant visual acuity of 6/12 or worse was 32% and of retinopathy of any degree was 26%. There was extensive co morbidity which was not confined to a single subgroup of patients. PMID- 2527703 TI - Increased proximal tubular sodium reabsorption in hypertensive patients with type 2 diabetes. AB - Hyperinsulinaemia and sodium retention have been studied in 22 Type 2 diabetic patients (10 normotensive, 12 hypertensive) and 10 normal control subjects matched for age, sex, and body mass index. Exchangeable sodium was similar in the three groups. Plasma renin activity and plasma angiotensin II were lower in both groups of diabetic patients than in the normal control subjects (p less than 0.01). Plasma atrial natriuretic peptide was increased in the hypertensive patients (7.3 +/- 1.1 vs normotensive 4.7 +/- 1.1 pmol l-1 and control 4.0 +/- 0.2 pmol l-1, p less than 0.01). Fractional lithium clearance, a measure of sodium clearance from the proximal tubule, was decreased (18.5 +/- 1.4, p less than 0.01) and fractional excretion of sodium in the distal tubule was increased (6.66 +/- 0.66, p less than 0.01) in untreated hypertensive diabetic patients compared with both normotensive diabetic patients (25.3 +/- 1.6 and 3.96 +/- 0.52 respectively) and normal control subjects (25.2 +/- 2.9 and 3.31 +/- 0.38, respectively). Fasting serum insulin was higher in hypertensive than in normotensive diabetic patients (18.5 +/- 3.0 vs 10.7 +/- 1.1 mU l-1, p less than 0.01) and higher in both groups than in normal control subjects (5.6 +/- 0.1 mU l 1, both p less than 0.01). Creatinine clearance was higher in both groups of diabetic patients than in normal control subjects (p less than 0.05). Thus there appears to be increased proximal renal tubular sodium reabsorption in these hypertensive Type 2 diabetic patients, matched by a reduction in distal sodium reabsorption so that net sodium excretion was maintained. This was associated with fasting hyperinsulinaemia. PMID- 2527704 TI - Insulin-induced hypoglycaemia and absorption of injected insulin in diabetic patients. AB - The effect of insulin-induced hypoglycaemia (soluble insulin 1 mU kg-1 min-1 IV) on the absorption of 125I-labelled soluble insulin (10 U SC) from thigh was studied in 10 insulin-treated Type 1 diabetic patients on a test and a control day. Disappearance of 125I was followed by external gamma counting. Adipose tissue blood flow was measured concomitantly using the 133Xe-clearance technique. Arterial plasma levels of glucose, insulin, adrenaline and noradrenaline were determined intermittently. Hypoglycaemia occurred at a glucose level of 2.2 +/- 0.1 (+/- SE) mmol l-1 after 58 +/- 6 min. Peak levels of adrenaline (6.44 +/- 1.62 nmol l-1) and noradrenaline (2.29 +/- 0.39 nmol l-1) were found 10 min later. During the 30-min period after onset of hypoglycaemia, adipose tissue blood flow increased 132 +/- 45% (p less than 0.05) but the disappearance rate of 125I-insulin was unchanged. Thus, insulin absorption was unaltered in connection with hypoglycaemia in Type 1 diabetic patients, in contrast to the depression previously reported in healthy subjects, despite similar increases in adipose tissue blood flow. PMID- 2527705 TI - A prospective study of symptomatic hypoglycaemia in childhood diabetes. AB - A prospective study of symptomatic hypoglycaemia was conducted in 47 children over a 14-week period using a questionnaire completed at home for each episode of hypoglycaemia. Twenty-nine children (62%) experienced 150 episodes during the study. The average incidence was once every 33 days (range 0-5.2 mo-1). Hypoglycaemia occurred more frequently in children with lowest haemoglobin A1 levels. Episodes were not randomly distributed in time; hypoglycaemia occurred significantly more frequently in the evening, in the early morning and around midday. The majority of episodes were judged to be mild but 2 children had nocturnal convulsions and glucagon was used on three occasions. Symptomatic nocturnal hypoglycaemia occurred one or more times in 30% of the children. Daytime episodes were manifested by tremor, feeling weak, dizziness, pallor, and other symptoms and signs. In 46% of cases the cause was not evident to parents or children, but 25% were related to physical activity. PMID- 2527706 TI - Success with the young. PMID- 2527707 TI - The use of a Teleport system in parent and adolescent support. PMID- 2527708 TI - Dialabetic. PMID- 2527709 TI - District Diabetes Centres in the United Kingdom and Eire. PMID- 2527710 TI - Strategies for caring for adolescents with diabetes. PMID- 2527711 TI - Psychological care, counselling and diabetes. Part 2: Medical perspective. AB - Future advances in the management of people with diabetes are becoming increasingly unlikely to take the form of new insulin preparations, delivery devices or drugs. The responsibility for diabetes management is increasingly being given back to patients themselves. Improvements in the management of diabetes may be more likely to come from an appreciation of how psychological well-being can have a major effect on an individual's ability to manage their diabetes. In this article I have described some examples where an awareness of these problems may allow for planning of their appropriate management. The ideal plan of action would be for the 'Diabetic Team' to meet with a psychologist in order to identify the needs of their clinic population. Plans can then be made for meeting those needs. Individuals can be identified for training in the appropriate skills. Counselling courses are widely available and some with diabetes particularly in mind already exist. Resources and time can then be set aside specifically for implementation of this care. Individual local resources and enthusiasm would decide what form this should take and whom, if anyone, from the 'Diabetes Team' should undergo training. There is already an awareness that Diabetes Nurse Specialists may require counselling skills and the opportunity to use these skills, and some 'Diabetes Teams' currently have a psychologist as a member. Overall, the most important change may be the recognition that specialist psychological advice and, hopefully, collaboration is required to provide a satisfactory standard of health care. PMID- 2527712 TI - Diabetes care: activity and costs. PMID- 2527713 TI - How effective is the referral chain for diabetic retinopathy? PMID- 2527714 TI - Pathogenesis, diagnosis, prophylaxis, and management of hepatitis B virus infection. PMID- 2527716 TI - Follow-up of workers from the prefabricated concrete industry after the addition of ferrous sulphate to Danish cement. AB - Ferrous sulfate has been added to cement manufactured in Denmark, reducing the water soluble chromate content to not more than 2 ppm, since September 1981. A comparison is made between the medical and employment status of a cohort of workers engaged, or who had been engaged, in the manufacture of prefabricated concrete building components in 1981 and in 1987. Workers who had allergic cement eczema in 1981 appeared to show no improvement 6 years after the reduction of chromate in the cement. Improvement was seen, however, in the eczema of those workers with irritant cement eczema. The 1987 study showed that a larger number of chromate-sensitized workers required medical services and topical steroid treatment than did those who were not sensitized to chromate. This difference was statistically significant. The worse medical prognosis of the chromate-sensitized workers could in part be due to the fact that some of these had secondary contact sensitivity to cobalt and rubber chemicals. The chromate-sensitized workers also took earlier retirement. Younger workers with allergic and irritant cement eczema continued to work and their employment status was not influenced by chromate sensitization. PMID- 2527715 TI - Common binding region of complement factors B, H and CR1 on C3b revealed by monoclonal anti-C3d. AB - Fab fragments of a murine C3d-specific monoclonal antibody, clone 4C2, strongly inhibited the binding of H, and up to about 80% that of B, to C3b on sheep erythrocytes, as shown by using radiolabelled purified proteins. The inhibition was also detected in the fluid phase. Conversion of C3 by preformed solid phase alternative pathway C3 convertase was not affected by 4C2. Also, it did not affect the decay rate of the convertase, but reduced the decay-accelerating effect of H on it. The results suggest that the binding sites of B and H on C3b are close to each other, and their competition for binding to C3b is focused around the C3d region. In addition, 4C2 partially blocked noncovalent binding of C3b to human erythrocytes, which suggests that CR1 also binds close to the H- and B-binding region in C3b. PMID- 2527717 TI - Cutting fluid dermatitis. AB - 174 consecutive patients with suspected cutting fluid dermatitis were investigated in 2 occupational dermatology clinics. 43% showed allergic reactions which were thought to be relevant to their dermatitis. Irritant contact dermatitis occurred in 63%, but only in 21% was it thought to be the sole diagnosis. Biocides, especially formaldehyde releasers, were the commonest cause of allergic reactions in a cutting fluid patch test series. PMID- 2527719 TI - Allergic contact dermatitis from 1,2-dichloropropane. PMID- 2527720 TI - Isophoronediamine (IPD) dermatitis in Spain. PMID- 2527718 TI - Outcome of investigation of cutting fluid dermatitis. PMID- 2527721 TI - Delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction to heparin. PMID- 2527722 TI - Hand eczema associated with continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion. PMID- 2527723 TI - Allergic contact dermatitis from thiamine. PMID- 2527724 TI - Allergic contact dermatitis due to 101 Hair Regrowth Liniment. PMID- 2527725 TI - Occupational allergic contact dermatitis from triphenyl phosphite. PMID- 2527726 TI - Contact sensitivity to lettuce in a chef. PMID- 2527727 TI - Interaction with the pharmacokinetics of ethinylestradiol and progestogens contained in oral contraceptives. AB - The serum concentrations of ethinylestradiol (EE) during the first 4 h and 24 h after intake of an oral contraceptive containing 30 micrograms EE and 75 micrograms gestodene (EE/GSD) were compared to those after intake of a preparation containing the same EE dose and 150 micrograms desogestrel (EE/DG) in each of 11 women on days 1, 10, and 21 of their 1st, 3rd, 6th, and 12th cycles. There were great interindividual variations, but during treatment with EE/GSD the EE levels were higher and the EE peaks occurred by 30 min later than during treatment with EE/DG. The areas under the EE serum concentration-versus-time curves (AUC) between 0 and 4 h were higher by 37% (p less than 0.03) and between 0 and 24 h higher by 70% (p less than 0.002) during treatment with EE/GSD. During each treatment cycle, the EE levels rose between day 1 and 10. The serum levels of corticosteroid-binding globulin (CBG), which is known to be influenced only by the estrogenic component of the combination pill, increased significantly (p less than 0.01) during each treatment cycle. CBG was elevated on day 21 of the 6th and 12th cycle by 150 to 155% and by 120 to 130% with EE/GSD and EE/DG, respectively. The difference between the two drugs was significant (p less than 0.02). During the pill-free intervals of 7 days between the treatment cycles, the CBG levels decreased but were still elevated by 85% with EE/GSD and 50% with EE/DG at the beginning of the following cycle as compared to the control cycle. The serum levels of cortisol were also significantly more elevated (p less than 0.05) during treatment with EE/GSD as compared to EE/DG. Despite the same EE dose during treatment, the higher EE levels with EE/GSD as compared to EE/DG seem to be due to a retardation of the inactivation and elimination of EE caused by the progestogen component. The rise in the EE levels during each cycle seems to be due to a reduction in the oxidative metabolism by EE itself. PMID- 2527728 TI - Aggression, physical activity levels and sex role identity in teenagers exposed in utero to MPA. AB - Sex-dimorphic traits and behavior were measured in a 17-year old prospective study of 74 teenager boys and 98 girls who had been exposed to medroxyprogesterone acetate in utero compared with 459 boys and 546 girls not exposed. Bem Sex Role Identity scores were identical in exposed and non-exposed teenagers of each sex. There were no significant differences between MPA-exposed and non-exposed males or females on the Buss-Durkee overall aggression scale and on its assaultiveness subscale. Mothers of exposed males more often reported that teachers had complained that their offspring were naughty in school. No such difference was reported for females, nor for other school behaviors of dominance/aggression, activity, shyness and quietness. Exposed and non-exposed children were similar in the number of accidents experienced in childhood, as reported by their mothers, and in participation in competitive sports. These findings fail to support hypotheses posed by earlier researchers that exposure in utero to medroxyprogesterone acetate might alter sex-dimorphic behavior or traits in later life. PMID- 2527729 TI - Effects of seven low-dose combined contraceptives on vitamin B6 status. AB - The effect of seven low-dose oral contraceptive preparations on vitamin B6 status was investigated in 55 women. All preparations contained about the same amount of ethinylestradiol but differed in the content and type of progestagen. The following preparations were investigated: monophasic and triphasic levonorgestrel, monophasic and biphasic desogestrel, monophasic norethisterone, monophasic cyproterone acetate and triphasic gestodene. The vitamin B6 status was evaluated by measuring erythrocyte glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (EGOT) activity and its degree of in vitro stimulation. From these two variables the total EGOT activity was calculated. In addition plasma pyridoxal-5'-phosphate (PLP) levels were estimated. After six months' treatment, EGOT activity and the calculated total EGOT activity were increased, but no changes were observed in the degree of in vitro stimulation (which is a more reliable parameter). Plasma PLP levels initially decreased during the first three months of treatment but after six months a return to normal levels was observed. Differences between the seven preparations were not found. We conclude from these results that the low dose preparations investigated in this study have no any adverse effects on vitamin B6 status. PMID- 2527730 TI - Effects of eicosanoids inhibitors and thromboxane receptor antagonists in human glomerular disease. PMID- 2527731 TI - Echo-Doppler evaluation of diastolic filling in differently induced left ventricular hypertrophy. AB - The study was performed in order to assess whether left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) (exercise or pressure-overload induced but of a similar extent) may differently affect LV diastolic function. The authors compared LV filling echo Doppler indexes of 16 male trained rowers (mean left ventricular mass index (LVMI) = 162 +/- 18 g/m2) with those of 34 male patients with secondary LVH, subdivided into two groups according to the extent of LVH (group I, n = 20, with a mean LVMI = 159 + 20 g/m2, and group II, n = 14, with a mean LVMI = 221 +/- 23 g/m2). No abnormalities of LV diastolic filling were observed in the athletes; while in patients with secondary LVH of group I an impairment of the echo-Doppler indexes was detected. A more severe involvement of the diastolic properties was observed in patients with LVH of group II. PMID- 2527732 TI - New assessment of airway responsiveness. Effect of pretreatment with procaterol on allergen-induced bronchoconstriction. AB - We examined airway responsiveness to allergen inhalation using a novel technique by which dynamic compliance (Cdyn) and pulmonary resistance (Rl) are simultaneously calculated by Fourier-series analysis of flow and transpulmonary pressure during tidal breathing. C0 and C0.5 (Cdyn at the frequency of zero and 0.5 Hz, respectively) were computed using the regression line of Cdyn versus frequency measured at the fundamental and first three harmonics in each breathing cycle. First, the validity of this system was tested by comparing Rl, C0 and C0.5 during five consecutive breaths with those obtained by the conventional method. A good correlation was seen in Rl, C0 and C0.5 between the two methods. Second, we studied airway response to allergen inhalation before and after oral administration of a long-acting beta 2-stimulant (procaterol, 50 micrograms or 100 micrograms) or placebo in a double-blind crossover trial in six atopic asthmatic subjects. In control allergen inhalation tests by administration of placebo, Rl increased progressively, and C0.5, expressed as percentage of control compliance at zero frequency (C0.5/COcont), decreased progressively. After 100 micrograms procaterol, Rl response to allergen was almost completely inhibited. However, a decrease in C0.5/C0cont was still observed. These findings suggest that pretreatment of asthmatic patients with procaterol can release allergen induced bronchoconstriction of the central airways, but cannot release that of the peripheral airways. PMID- 2527733 TI - Constrictive pericarditis with electrocardiographic evidence of right ventricular hypertrophy. AB - We report the findings in a patient with constrictive pericarditis who had ECGs resembling right ventricular hypertrophy without right ventricular pressure overload, and we provide a possible explanation for the cause of this abnormality. Right ventriculography demonstrated a dilated and hyperkinetic outflow tract and compressed free wall with calcified pericardium. The derangement of the configuration of the right ventricle was considered to be the genesis of this electrocardiographic abnormality. PMID- 2527734 TI - Effects of clindamycin and cefuroxime on leukocyte membrane receptors and function. AB - Normal human granulocytes and lymphocytes were preincubated in 0.5, 5, or 50 mg/l of clindamycin, and 5, 50, or 500 mg/l of cefuroxime. Incubation with clindamycin caused an increase in the proportion of granulocytes bearing receptors for the Fc portion of IgG (Fc gamma-R) and C3b (C3b-R). Random migration in capillary tubes was significantly decreased, but phagocytosis as measured by chemiluminescence was only slightly decreased. The proportion of lymphocytes bearing Fc gamma-R was decreased, while there was no effect on lymphocyte C3b-R percentage, nor on the proportion of granulocytes or lymphocytes bearing sheep erythrocyte (E) receptors. Preincubation of granulocytes in cefuroxime was not associated with changes in the proportion of receptor-bearing cells, except for a slight increase in Fc gamma-R-bearing lymphocytes at the lowest concentration tested. Tube migration was not affected but chemiluminescence was significantly decreased. Preincubation with clindamycin, although increasing the proportion of cells bearing phagocytosis-associated receptors, is thus not associated with an increased phagocytic ability, while cefuroxime incubation caused a decrease in chemiluminescence despite normal levels of receptor-positive cells. PMID- 2527735 TI - Idiopathic constipation by colonic dysfunction. Relationship with personality and anxiety. AB - The personality of two groups of constipated women (by delayed colonic transit or by colonic inertia) was compared to that of two control groups of arthritic patients (rheumatoid or degenerative disease) with the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI). All subjects suffered from chronic pain. Constipated women were found to have significantly higher scores on the hypochondria, hysteria, control, and low back pain scales and a lower score on the masculinity-femininity scale. Discriminant analysis permitted us to sort out constipated from arthritic patients in 83% of the cases, on the basis of only the personality data. In women with constipation by delayed colonic transit, multiple regression analysis demonstrated a close link (r = 0.90; P less than 0.001) between transit time in the ascending colon and levels of anxiety. It is concluded that women with constipation of colonic origin have a different pattern of personality than arthritic women and that severe constipation may play the role of a defense mechanism, where psychophysiologic responses to life stresses replace normal emotional reactions. PMID- 2527736 TI - [Excimer laser angioplasty in arterial obstructive disease. Clinical experience with guidewire-controlled catheter systems]. AB - Percutaneous transluminal laser angioplasties (PTLA) were performed in nine patients (7 males, 2 females, aged 52-81 years) with peripheral vascular disease, stages IIB-IV (Fontaine's classification), with 75% stenosis (5 patients) or occlusion (4 patients) in the area of the superficial femoral artery. Two catheter systems were used. One was a monofiber catheter (600 microns) with eccentric guidewire, the other a multifiber catheter with 12 concentrically arranged fibres (200 microns each) and a central guidewire. An XeCl-excimer laser (308 nm), with a pulse duration of 50 ns and pulse frequency of 15-30 Hz, served as the laser source. It was possible in all patients to reduce the stenosis of 75 100% to 35-70% or reopen the occlusion without laser-associated complications. To remove the residual stenosis PTLA was followed by balloon dilatation in seven patients and by application of a Simpson atherectomy catheter in one patient: these measures reduced the degree of stenosis to 20-40%. PMID- 2527737 TI - [How infants of hepatitis B-positive mothers are protected]. PMID- 2527738 TI - Somatosensory evoked potentials in Huntington's disease--studies with paired stimulation. AB - The somatosensory evoked potentials (SEPs) and recovery functions of the SEP with paired stimulation were studied in patients with Huntington's disease (HD). A significant decrease in amplitude of the SEP was observed in 4 of the 5 patients. In addition, with paired stimulation, the second SEP amplitudes were normalized at intervals of about 10 ms. These findings possibly suggest that functional block rather than organic change in the thalamus may play an important role in the reduction in SEP amplitude in HD. PMID- 2527739 TI - Pulsed field gel electrophoresis: studies of DNA migration made with the programmable, autonomously-controlled electrode electrophoresis system. AB - We have studied the migration of DNA in pulsed field agarose gels under a variety of electrophoresis conditions. We have made use of an instrument which can generate electric fields of any orientation, magnitude, or duration to compare different separation techniques for DNA molecules of from 1 to several thousand kilobase pairs. We discuss the capabilities of the system and present results of gel runs in which electrophoresis conditions were changed individually or in combination. The mobility of DNA in pulsed field gels is shown to reflect a number of interdependent physical parameters. PMID- 2527740 TI - Orientation of DNA and the agarose gel matrix in pulsed electric fields. AB - Transient electric birefringence has been used as an analytical tool to study the orientation of DNA in agarose gels, and to study the orientation of the matrix alone. The sign of the birefringence of DNA oriented in an agarose gel is negative, as observed in free solution, indicating that the DNA molecules orient parallel to the direction of the electric field. If the median pore diameter of the gel is larger than the contour length of the DNA molecule, the DNA effectively does not see the matrix and the birefringence relaxation time is the same as observed in free solution. However, if the median pore diameter of the gel is smaller than the contour length of the DNA, the DNA molecule becomes stretched as well as oriented. For DNA molecules of moderate size (less than or equal to 4 kb), stretching in the gel causes the birefringence relaxation times to increase to the values expected for fully stretched molecules. Complete stretching is not observed for larger DNA molecules. The orientation and stretching of DNA molecules in the gel matrix indicates that end-on migration, or reptation, is a likely mechanism for DNA electrophoresis in agarose gels. When the electric field is rapidly reversed in polarity, very little change in the orientation of the DNA is observed if the DNA molecules were completely stretched and had reached their equilibrium orientation before the field was reversed in direction. Hence completely stretched, oriented DNA molecules are able to reverse their direction of migration in the electric field with little or no loss of orientation. However, if the DNA molecules were not completely stretched or if the equilibrium orientation had not been reached, substantial disorientation of the DNA molecules is observed at field reversal. The forced rate of disorientation in the reversing field is faster than the field-free rate of disorientation. Complicated patterns of reorientation can be observed after field reversal, depending on the degree of orientation in the original field direction. The effect of pulsed electric fields on the orientation of the agarose gel matrix itself was also investigated.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2527741 TI - Endocytosis and recycling of the fibronectin receptor in CHO cells. AB - An anti-fibronectin receptor monoclonal antibody preferentially labels the leading edges of freshly plated CHO fibroblasts, suggesting that this receptor circulates through the endocytic cycle. Using a new labelling reagent, I show that this receptor is indeed endocytosed at 37 degrees C and then returned to the cell surface. These findings imply that fibronectin receptors are recirculated to the leading edge of a motile cell by the endocytic cycle, and establish that the processes of endocytosis/exocytosis and cell locomotion are intimately linked. PMID- 2527742 TI - Diminished serotonin uptake in platelets of transgenic mice with increased Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase activity. AB - Reduced levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin in blood platelets is a clinical symptom characteristic of individuals with Down's syndrome. To investigate the possible involvement of the Cu/Zn-superoxide dismutase (CuZnSOD) gene, which resides at the Down locus on chromosome no. 21, in the etiology of that symptom, we examined blood platelets of transgenic mice harboring the human CuZnSOD gene. It was found that platelets of transgenic CuZnSOD animals, which overexpress the transgene, contain lower levels of serotonin than nontransgenic littermate mice, due to a reduced rate of uptake of the neurotransmitter by the dense granules of the platelets. We found that the pH gradient (delta pH) across the dense granule membrane, which is the main driving force for serotonin transport, was diminished in dense granules of transgenic-CuZnSOD. Furthermore, a significantly lower than normal serotonin accumulation rate was also detected in dense granules isolated from blood platelets of Down's syndrome individuals. These findings suggest that CuZnSOD gene dosage is affecting the dense granule transport system and is thereby involved in the depressed level of blood serotonin found in patients born with Down's syndrome. PMID- 2527743 TI - Mutations of the phage lambda attachment site alter the directionality of resolution of Holliday structures. AB - Integrative recombination of bacteriophage lambda occurs by two sequential, reciprocal strand exchanges at specific positions within the attachment sites. Both exchanges are promoted by the lambda Int protein; the first forms a Holliday structure, and the second resolves it to recombinant products. Recombination requires sequence homology within the 7 bp 'overlap' region that separates the two points of strand exchange. To see if homology promotes the second strand exchange, we constructed attachment site Holliday structures by annealing DNA strands and then assayed Int-promoted resolution. Holliday structures corresponding to strand exchange between sites with homologous overlap regions were efficiently resolved to give mixtures of recombinants and parents. Holliday structures corresponding to exchanges between heterologous sites fell into two classes. Members of the first class, in which heterology limited but did not completely prevent migration of the branchpoint within the overlap region, were resolved efficiently and preferentially to parental molecules. We propose that resolution to recombinants occurs only if homology allows branch migration from the first to the second exchange site. Members of the second class, in which heterology constrained the branchpoint within an Int binding site, were resolved poorly. We suggest that Holliday structures that have a branchpoint within an Int binding site are poor substrates for Int. PMID- 2527744 TI - Initiation of lambda DNA replication with purified host- and bacteriophage encoded proteins: the role of the dnaK, dnaJ and grpE heat shock proteins. AB - Based on previous in vivo genetic analysis of bacteriophage lambda growth, we have developed two in vitro lambda DNA replication systems composed entirely of purified proteins. One is termed 'grpE-independent' and consists of supercoiled lambda dv plasmid DNA, the lambda O and lambda P proteins, as well as the Escherichia coli dnaK, dnaJ, dnaB, dnaG, ssb, DNA gyrase and DNA polymerase III holoenzyme proteins. The second system includes the E.coli grpE protein and is termed 'grpE-dependent'. Both systems are specific for plasmid molecules carrying the ori lambda DNA initiation site. The major difference in the two systems is that the 'grpE-independent' system requires at least a 10-fold higher level of dnaK protein compared with the grpE-dependent one. The lambda DNA replication process may be divided into several discernible steps, some of which are defined by the isolation of stable intermediates. The first is the formation of a stable ori lambda-lambda O structure. The second is the assembly of a stable ori lambda lambda O-lambda P-dnaB complex. The addition of dnaJ to this complex also results in an isolatable intermediate. The dnaK, dnaJ and grpE proteins destabilize the lambda P-dnaB interaction, thus liberating dnaB's helicase activity, resulting in unwinding of the DNA template. At this stage, a stable DNA replication intermediate can be isolated, provided that the grpE protein has acted and/or is present. Following this, the dnaG primase enzyme recognizes the single-stranded DNA-dnaB complex and synthesizes RNA primers. Subsequently, the RNA primers are extended into DNA by DNA polymerase III holoenzyme. The proposed model of the molecular series of events taking place at ori lambda is substantiated by the many demonstrable protein-protein interactions among the various participants. PMID- 2527745 TI - Isolation of dynein heavy chain cDNAs from trout testis which predict an extensive carboxyl-terminal alpha-helical coiled-coil domain. AB - A Mg2+-dependent ATPase activity has been purified from trout sperm axonemes which has properties characteristic of a dynein ATPase. A polyclonal antiserum prepared against the dynein heavy chains has been used to isolate dynein heavy chain (DYHC) cDNAs from a trout testis lambda gt11 cDNA expression library. beta galactosidase fusion proteins produced in lambda gt11 by these trout cDNAs cross reacted with a heterologous anti-sea urchin dynein antiserum. Northern blot analyses demonstrated that the RNA transcripts detected have sizes (7.5 - 12 kb) consistent with those expected for the dynein heavy chains. All the DYHC cDNAs encode portions of a highly unusual DNA coding sequence comprised of 21 bp direct repeats. The predicted open reading frame of this repeat is Ile/Leu-His-Val-Ile Gln-Tyr-Ser and is characteristic of an extensive alpha-helical coiled-coil domain. The presence of an in-frame translation termination codon indicates that this domain is located at the carboxyl-terminus of the DYHC. Southern blot analyses demonstrated a low, if not single, copy number for this gene and conservation of this domain in other vertebrates. DYHC transcripts reach their highest level in testis, but are also abundant in brain tissue. PMID- 2527746 TI - Nuclear protein p68 is an RNA-dependent ATPase. AB - The human nuclear antigen p68 cross reacts with a monoclonal antibody to SV40 large-T antigen. Its deduced amino acid sequence contains short motifs which place it in a large superfamily of proteins of known or putative helicase activity. Recently, a p68 subfamily (DEAD box proteins) which share more extensive regions of homology has been identified in mouse, Drosophila, Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Escherichia coli. These proteins are involved in translation, ribosome assembly, mitochondrial splicing, spermatogenesis and embryogenesis. We show here that immunopurified human p68 has RNA dependent ATPase activity. In addition, we show that the protein undergoes dramatic changes in cellular location during the cell cycle. PMID- 2527747 TI - Exonucleolytic proofreading increases the accuracy of DNA synthesis by human lymphocyte DNA polymerase alpha-DNA primase. AB - DNA polymerase-primase complex, isolated with an apparently undegraded alpha subunit, was immunoaffinity-purified to near homogeneity from the human lymphoblast line HSC93. The undegraded state of the alpha-subunit was monitored by Western-blot analysis of crude cellular extracts and all active fractions obtained during purification. The human polymerase-primase consists of four subunits with molecular weights of 195, 68, 55 and 48 kd. The fidelity of the polymerase-primase in copying bacteriophage phi X174am16 DNA in vitro was determined by measuring the frequency of production of different revertent phages. The overall accuracy was between 4 x 10(-6) and 10 x 10(-6). This value reflects the spontaneous mutation frequency of phi X174am16 phages in Escherichia coli, and is 10- to 20-fold higher than the accuracy of a conventionally purified enzyme from calf thymus. The frequencies of base pairing mismatches, estimated from pool bias measurements, were 3.5 x 10(-7) (1/2 880,000) for dGMP:Ttemplate mispairs, between 10(-7) and 10(-8) for dCMP:Ttemplate (1/35,000,000), dCMP:Atemplate (1/18,200,000) and dAMP:Gtemplate mispairs (1/16,500,000), and below 10(-8) (1/100,000,000) for dTMP:Ttemplate, dGMP:Atemplate and dGMP:Gtemplate mispairs. In contrast to previous preparations, the intact polymerase-primase possesses a 3'----5' exonuclease activity. This exonuclease removes both matched and mismatched 3'-OH ends, with a preference for mismatched bases. Fidelity was reduced 8-fold by increasing the concentration of the next nucleotide following the incorporated mismatch nucleotide.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527748 TI - Face cooling-induced reduction of plasma prolactin response to exercise as part of an integrated response to thermal stress. AB - This study was designed to verify if the decrease in blood prolactin (PRL) induced by selective face cooling during exercise could be part of a response to specific body thermal stress. Five healthy trained male cyclists presenting a significant plasma PRL elevation to exercise were, on three occasions and at weekly interval, submitted to a submaximal exercise (approx. 65% VO2max) on ergocycle with and without selective face cooling. In absence of face cooling a first trial served to establish reference values for workload, heart rate and plasma PRL levels, the latter increasing markedly (450% of resting values) in these conditions. On a second trial but with workload maintained at reference values (222 +/- 9 W), a significant bradycardia was observed with face cooling; furthermore, plasma PRL response to exercise was significantly reduced (to 31% of original response). On a third trial with face cooling, workload had to be significantly augmented (242 +/- 10 W) to maintain heart rate at reference level (78% HRmax); in addition, plasma PRL response to exercise was almost unchanged compared to the reference-value level. The absence of a significant face cooling induced decrease in sympathetic tonus, as evaluated through peripheral plasma catecholamines response, does not indicate a role for the autonomic nervous system in the face cooling-induced reduction of both heart rate and PRL responses during exercise. Assay of circulating peripheral beta-endorphins could indicate that the face cooling-induced PRL blunted response does not necessarily involve an opioid mediation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527749 TI - Myocardial hypertrophy and left ventricular diastolic function in hypertensive patients: an echo Doppler evaluation. AB - The presence and the characteristics of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in mild to moderate systemic hypertension were evaluated in 13 normotensive subjects (Group I), in 12 hypertensive subjects without (Group II) and 28 with (Group III) LV hypertrophy who underwent two-dimensional Doppler echocardiographic study. Among Group III patients, a subset (n = 12) with a dilated left ventricle was identified. Diastolic filling parameters were impaired in Group III patients while, in Group II, they were intermediate between Groups I and III. In all Group III patients normalized peak filling rate (nPFR) correlated directly with mean velocity of circumferential fibre shortening (mVCF) (r = 0.55; P less than 0.001) and inversely with left ventricular mass index (LVM) (r = -0.60; P less than 0.001), left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVIDd) (r = -0.63; P less than 0.001), LV peak systolic stress (LVWST) (r = -0.64; P less than 0.01). A separate analysis showed that these correlations were also present in patients without left ventricular dilation; in the subset with left ventricular dilation nPFR correlated only with LVWST (r = -0.73; P less than 0.01), but not with LVM, mVCF, LVIDd. Thus, left ventricular hypertrophy is one of the major determinants of diastolic dysfunction in hypertensives; other factors influence nPFR values in hypertensive patients when the left ventricle dilates. PMID- 2527750 TI - Clinical comparison between thallium-201 and Tc-99m-methoxy isobutyl isonitrile (hexamibi) myocardial perfusion imaging for detection of coronary artery disease. AB - 99mTc-hexamibi (methoxy isobutyl isonitrile) is a new 99mTc-hexakis analog that can be used as a myocardial perfusion imaging agent. The purposes of this study were to compare 99mTc-hexamibi to 201Tl-thallous chloride myocardial stress scintigraphy in patients referred for investigation of chest pain and to evaluate the sensitivity of 99mTc-hexamibi in detection of coronary artery disease. One hundred patients were prospectively studied with both 201Tl and 99mTc-hexamibi planar imaging. Sixty five patients had a current coronary angiography. There was a total of 97 significantly (less than or equal to 70%) stenosed major coronary arteries. 99mTc-hexamibi (25 mCi) study was done within a week of the 201Tl scan with similar double products upon standard treadmil stress testing. Rest studies with 99mTc-hexamibi were obtained 24-48 h after the stress test using the same acquisition parameters and dose. Analysis was performed blind by three observers. The left ventricle was divided into five segments in each image. Analysis of 201Tl and 99mTc-hexamibi results in 1500 left ventricle segments showed an overall agreement in 1326/1500 (88.4%) segments. Correlation between the patient diagnosis on the 201Tl and 99mTc-hexamibi studies showed an agreement in 89 patients (89%). 201Tl revealed myocardial uptake defects in 526 segments, detecting 72 out of 97 (74.2%) significantly stenosed coronary arteries and 99mTc hexamibi detected 513 segments corresponding to 68 (70.1%) stenosed arteries (no significant statistical difference). In conclusion, these results show a good correlation between 201Tl and 99mTc-hexamibi myocardial imaging in the detection of significant coronary artery disease. PMID- 2527751 TI - Blood mononuclear cell production of IL-1 and IL-2 following moderate surgical trauma. AB - The in vitro interleukin-1 (IL-1) and interleukin-2 (IL-2) production and IL-2 receptor (IL-2-R) expression by peripheral blood mononuclear (PBM) cells were examined in patients undergoing elective cholecystectomy. The IL-1 production by monocytes stimulated with a lipopolysaccharide (LPS) did not change on day +1 but increased by 57.5% on day +3 (p less than 0.05) after surgery, and was normalized on days +5 and +7. The IL-1 production by PBM cells stimulated by LPS increased by 97.6% on day +1 (p less than 0.05) and 109.5% on day +3 (p less than 0.05) after surgery, and became normalized on days +5 and +7. The IL-2 level in PBM cell supernatants stimulated with phytohemagglutinin (PHA) decreased by 45.2% on day +1 (p less than 0.05), 33.3% on day +3 (p less than 0.05), 32.3% on day +5 (p less than 0.05) and returned to the preoperative values on day +7. The IL-2-R expression on PHA-stimulated lymphocytes increased from 60.4 +/- 4.8% preoperatively to 67.2 +/- 1.9% on day +1 (p less than 0.05) but was again within the preoperative values on days +3, +5 and +7. In order to detect the described changes, stimulation with PHA had to be used. This indicates that simple surgical trauma produces subthreshold activation of blood immune cells. The cells enter the 'response alert' stage which can be measured after stimulation with lectins.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527752 TI - Long-term survival of kidney allografts in dogs after withdrawal of immunosuppression with ciclosporin and azathioprine. AB - We have examined the immunosuppressive effects of combined azathioprine (Aza) and ciclosporin (CS) in two groups of mongrel dogs receiving kidney allografts. In group 1, Aza and CS were given together daily after transplantation and in group 2 twice the dose of each drug was given separately on alternate days. Doses were halved in each group at successive 84-day intervals and all immunosuppression was stopped on day 336. Thus the same total amounts of Aza and CS were given to all recipients in both groups. Up to day-60 the incidence of rejection in each group was similar, thereafter recipients in group 1 were more susceptible to fatal infection and marrow hypoplasia. This accounted for the difference in long-term survival between the two groups (1/14 in group 1, 5/12 in group 2 at day 420). Subsequently, two long-term survivors in group 2 died, 1 on day 452 from chronic rejection and the other on day 529 from gastroenteritis with a histologically normal allograft kidney. An in vitro analysis of the alloreactive repertoire of two healthy recipients in group 2, bearing each other's kidneys for more than 2.5 years and more than 500 days without immunosuppression, showed a profound donor specific defect which could account for their operationally tolerant state. PMID- 2527753 TI - Microsurgical arterialization for vascular impotence. AB - Of 400 patients with erectile lesions Doppler flowmetry in combination with nitroglycerin stimulation showed a decreased penile arterial blood flow in 42 males. Dynamic cavernosography and cavernosometry showed a concomitant increase of venous drainage in 38 of them. Phallo-arteriography in 22 males demonstrated occlusion of the internal pudendal artery in 21 of them. In 15 patients penile arterialization was done by interposition of a saphenous vein graft between the iliac artery and deep dorsal penile vein. In 4 of these patients an additional venous leak was treated during the same operation by ligation of the internal iliac veins. Two years postoperatively two thirds of the patients are doing well. Failures in 5 of them included 4 diabetic neurovascular lesions and 1 postoperative priapism. PMID- 2527754 TI - Prolonged anuria after failed percutaneous transluminal angioplasty in a kidney transplant patient solved by surgery. AB - We present the case of a 21-year-old transplanted female patient who presented with anuria due to a renal artery stenosis secondary to a failed percutaneous transluminal angioplasty. The interest is that, to our knowledge, it is the longest case (220 days) reported in the literature of anuria in these conditions solved by surgery with an immediate urine output recovery. We report the underlying pathophysiology. PMID- 2527755 TI - 8-OH-DPAT increases corticosterone but not other 5-HT1A receptor-dependent responses more in females. AB - The 5-HT1A receptor subtype agonist 8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino) tetralin (8-OH DPAT) (50-1000 micrograms/kg s.c.) dose dependently increased rat plasma corticosterone. Tube restraint for 30 min also increased plasma corticosterone; this effect was completely blocked by (-)-pindolol (1 mg/kg i.p.). Increases of corticosterone following either 8-OH-DPAT injection or restraint were significantly greater in female animals. The restraint stress-induced changes but not those due to 8-OH-DPAT were decreased by pretreatment with the tranquiliser chlordiazepoxide (10 mg/kg i.p.). In anaesthetized rats, restraint no longer significantly affected corticosterone levels but 8-OH-DPAT caused increases which (though much attenuated) were significantly greater in the females. Dose dependent increases of plasma corticosterone also resulted on infusing 8-OH-DPAT (500-1500 ng) into the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus; increases were significantly greater in the females. As mentioned in the discussion, these results may be relevant to the greater incidents of depression in women and the possible role of adrenal corticoids in the illness. PMID- 2527756 TI - Production of wet-dog shakes in rats and down-regulation of spinal 5-HT2 receptors. AB - 5-HT2 receptors, labelled with [3H]ketanserin, were shown to occur in a low concentration in the spinal cord of rats. The receptor numbers were reduced by 37% within 3 h of giving paroxetine to phenelzine-treated rats and remained low for at least 24 h. Paroxetine also evoked wet-dog shakes. These were of similar frequency in spinal (Cl transection) and intact rats and lessened within 3 h, perhaps because of receptor down-regulation. PMID- 2527757 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide inhibits the release of endothelium-derived relaxing factor from blood vessels of the rabbit. AB - We investigated the effects of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) on release of endothelium-derived relaxing factor (EDRF) from rabbit aorta and central ear artery using inhibition of platelet aggregation and vascular smooth muscle relaxation respectively as measures of EDRF activity. ANP at concentrations greater than 10(-9) M inhibited carbachol-induced EDRF release from rabbit aorta and acetylcholine-induced EDRF release from the central ear artery. These findings are consistent with previous observations that 8-bromo cyclic GMP inhibits EDRF release from rabbit aorta and ANP inhibits release of EDRF from cultured endothelial cells. PMID- 2527758 TI - Activation of cardiac G-proteins by muscarinic acetylcholine receptors: regulation by Mg2+ and Na+ ions. AB - The mechanism of G-protein activation mediated by cardiac muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (mAcChR) was studied in porcine atrial membranes by measuring the agonist-stimulated hydrolysis of GTP and G-protein GTPase activity. The cholinergic agonist, carbachol, stimulated a high-affinity GTPase activity in mAcChR-enriched membranes by maximally about 70%. Carbachol increased the Vmax of GTP hydrolysis without affecting the Km for GTP (approximately 0.2 microM). The activity of low-affinity GTPase(s) was not altered by carbachol. Carbachol and the mAcChR agonist oxotremorine induced the same maximal response, with half maximal activation occurring at about 5 and 0.5 microM, respectively. The stimulatory effect of carbachol was blocked by the mAcChR antagonist, atropine. The stimulation of GTP hydrolysis by cholinergic agonist, was strictly dependent on Mg2+, with half-maximal stimulation observed at 4-5 microM free Mg2+. The monovalent cations, in the potency order, Na+ greater than Li+ greater than K+, enhanced the GTP hydrolysis stimulated by carbachol at a maximally effective concentration. The increase in the maximal agonist response seen with NaCl was the result of NaCl decreasing the basal more than the carbachol-stimulated GTP hydrolysis. The data indicate that occupation of mAcChR in porcine atrial membranes by agonists leads to an increase in G-protein GTPase activity, apparently by increasing the amount of nucleotide-free G-protein to which GTP can bind without altering the apparent binding affinity for GTP. This receptor induced G-protein activation is under the strict control of Mg2+ acting at low, microM concentrations, and is additionally modulated by monovalent cations. PMID- 2527759 TI - "Parallel array" of tubules with pipe-like structure in the mitochondria of glomerulosa cells of adrenal cortex. Ultrastructural and freeze-fracture replica studies. AB - We found "parallel array" of tubules with a pipe-like structure in the mitochondria of glomerulosa cells of the adrenal cortex of the rats treated with atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) that inhibits aldosterone production. This structure was characterized by the regular parallel arrays of tubules running straight along the mitochondrial long axis, representing a pipe-like structure. The cross section exhibited the round shape with an electron lucent core measuring about 40 nm and dual thick membranes measuring 10 nm in thickness. Some of these tubules were connected with the mitochondrial inner membrane. Freeze fracture replica represented round particles distributed on the surface membrane of these tubules, indicating protein particles. This particular structure was considered to be one of the changes occurring in the mitochondrial inner membrane on which structural proteins were localized. These tubules probably appeared in connection with the impaired mitochondrial protein synthesis in the process of the biosynthesis of mineralcorticoid, because this structure was found only in the glomerulosa cells under the decreased and increased aldosterone production. PMID- 2527760 TI - The efficacy of thymoxamine in primary Raynaud's phenomenon. AB - A randomised double-blind, three-way cross-over trial comparing oral thymoxamine 40 mg, oral thymoxamine 80 mg with a matched placebo was performed in 24 patients with primary Raynaud's phenomenon. The response to treatment was objectively assessed by monitoring digital skin temperature response for 7 min after exposure to a mild cold stimulus (20 C for 1 min). Thymoxamine treatment "normalised" rewarming responses in a statistically significant number of patients (P less than 0.01). Absolute digital temperatures and maximum rewarming rates were increased and the length of the latent period reduced (P less than 0.001). These effects were more pronounced with thymoxamine 80 mg than with thymoxamine 40 mg. PMID- 2527761 TI - Intra-arterial thrombolysis using recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (r TPA): the optimal agent, at the optimal dose? AB - Thirteen patients received 15 separate courses of intra-arterial (IA) r-TPA for acute and subacute peripheral arterial thromboses. Two patients received second courses: one following rethrombosis 2 weeks after the angioplasty of a residual stenosis, the other following rethrombosis 4 months after the initially successful thrombolysis. There were 10 men and 3 women with a mean age of 75.3 yrs (+/- 12.2). The median duration of ischaemia was 18 days (range 1-60), with five patients having severe ischaemia. All patients received IA r-TPA at a dose of 0.5 mg/h for a mean period of 26.2 hrs (+/- 12.6). Angiographic evidence of lysis was seen in all patients, however, this was insufficient to reperfuse the distal limb in two patients due to absence of run-off. Early rethrombosis occurred in both of these patients (less than 24 hrs, 11 days). There were no major complications, and minor groin haematomata occurred in four patients (three of whom underwent angioplasty). A further two patients rethrombosed despite angioplasty. One was successfully retreated and remains patent 5 months later, the other underwent surgical reconstruction. A partial systemic effect was confirmed by a reduction of plasminogen and fibrinogen to 66% of initial levels, and a reduction of alpha - 2-antiplasmin to 40% of initial levels. Haemoglobin was reduced by a mean 1.28 g/dl (+/- 0.82), however no transfusions were required, and no hypotensive periods occurred. Mean ankle/brachial systolic index (ABSI) was increased by 0.43 (+/- 0.24) overall.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527762 TI - The use of a latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap to cover an axillobifemoral vascular prosthetic graft. AB - We describe a case of seroma formation with skin necrosis overlying an axillobifemoral dacron graft, which was treated by excision of the affected skin and closure using a latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap. PMID- 2527763 TI - Primary abdominal aortic dissection. PMID- 2527764 TI - The preoperative recognition of aorto-caval syndrome. PMID- 2527765 TI - [Determination of plasma alpha human atrial natriuretic polypeptide using monoclonal antibodies in patients with chronic renal failure]. AB - To clarify the molecular nature and dynamics of circulating alpha human atrial natriuretic polypeptide (alpha hANP) in chronic renal disease, the plasma concentrations of alpha hANP were determined by radioimmunoassays using two distinct monoclonal antibodies (MoAbs). One MoAb (10B1) recognized N-terminus of alpha hANP, while the other (C351) recognized the ring structure. The preliminary studies revealed a close correlation (r = 0.97, p less than 0.0001) between plasma alpha hANP measured with 10B1 and C351 MoAbs, supporting the theory that the main circulating form is alpha hANP(1-28). Therefore, the more sensitive radioimmunoassay using MoAb (C351) was used in the present studies. The plasma alpha hANP was 3.8 +/- 1.7 (mean +/- SD) in healthy subjects, 2.7 +/- 1.4 fmol/ml in patients with chronic glomerulonephritis without renal failure, 16.2 +/- 16.8 fmol/ml in patients with chronic renal failure, and 24.3 +/- 10.5 fmol/ml in patients under maintenance hemodialysis. Thus, the elevation of plasma alpha hANP was related to the stages of renal damage. Although the plasma alpha hANP in 18 patients under maintenance hemodialysis declined significantly (p less than 0.01) after hemodialysis, their levels (17.9 +/- 9.0 fmol/ml) after hemodialysis were still higher than those in healthy subjects. On the other hand, a positive correlation (r = 0.65, p less than 0.05) between alpha hANP and creatinine in blood was found only in the group of chronic renal failure before maintenance hemodialysis. These results suggest that an impaired metabolism of alpha hANP in the kidney might play an important role in the elevation of plasma alpha hANP as well as the stimulation of alpha hANP secretion caused by the expansion of extracellular fluid. PMID- 2527766 TI - Fixed drug eruption due to cotrimexasole. PMID- 2527767 TI - Histopathological discriminant criteria between lichenoid drug eruption and idiopathic lichen planus: retrospective study on selected samples. AB - The lesions observed in 15 idiopathic lichen planus (ILP) skin biopsies were compared with those occurring in 15 clinically relevant lichenoid drug eruptions (LDE). Various histopathological features were taken into account. Statistical analysis of results showed that none of these can be considered as a significant criterium allowing a pathognomonic differential diagnosis between ILP and LDE. Nevertheless, a strong suggestion of drug etiology can be inferred when the following histopathological signs ('LDE-related criteria') are present: focal parakeratosis, focal interruption of the granular layer, cytoid bodies in the cornified and granular layers, present in more than 50% of LDE and never in ILP. PMID- 2527768 TI - Comparison of the effects of retinoids and glucocorticosteroid on protein and type IV collagen synthesis in HT-1080 (human basement membrane forming fibrosarcoma) cells. AB - The effects of various retinoids and dexamethasone on protein and type IV collagen synthesis were studied in human basement membrane-forming fibrosarcoma (HT-1080) cells. Retinol, etretinate (Ro-10-9359), free acid of etretinate (Ro-10 1670) and 13-cis-retinoic acid (RA) in 10(-7) M concentrations slightly reduced total protein and type IV collagen synthesis in the HT-1080 cells, the largest decrease being found with Ro-10-1670 and 13-cis-RA. In contrast, dexamethasone markedly stimulated the incorporation of [14C]proline and the synthesis of [14C]hydroxyproline, an index of the synthesis of type IV collagen. Part of the increase noted in total protein synthesis and type IV collagen synthesis after dexamethasone was due to enhanced intracellular activity of proline. Retinoids did not markedly affect the specific activity of proline. The addition of 13-cis RA with dexamethasone also increased total protein and type IV collagen synthesis, but to a lesser extent than did dexamethasone alone. 13-cis-RA did not affect the synthesis of fibronectin, a component of connective tissue matrix, while dexamethasone clearly increased the absolute and relative synthesis of fibronectin. Thus the results indicate that retinoids modulate the metabolism of HT-1080 cells, in a way which is separate from that of glucocorticoids. It is also possible that retinoids used in vivo in clinical practice may modulate the metabolism of the connective tissue matrix of basement membranes, i.e. type IV collagen. PMID- 2527769 TI - HLA and allopurinol drug eruption. AB - Strong HLA associations were found in Southern Chinese patients with skin eruptions due to allopurinol. The positive associations were with AW33 (Pc = 1.7 x 10(-5); relative risk [RR] = 15.0, 95% confidence limit 5.2-42.9) with B17/BW58 (Pc = 2.9 x 10(-9); RR = 46.3, 95% confidence limit 10.3-209.2). The negative association was with A2 (Pc = 8.3 x 10(-5), RR = 0). The findings suggested a genetic predisposition to cutaneous drug reactions. PMID- 2527770 TI - Fixed drug eruption to paracetamol. PMID- 2527771 TI - Generalised eruptive pustular drug rash due to naproxen. PMID- 2527772 TI - Maternal antigenic stimulation actively produces suppressor activity in offspring. AB - Pregnant B10.A(3R) and B10.A(5R) mice were immunized with heterologous erythrocyte and protein antigens and the active immune responsiveness of their offspring was investigated by the plaque-forming cell (PFC) assay. In offspring derived from mothers which were stimulated with optimal amounts of antigens and which had fully developed antibody-forming cells, there was a clear-cut suppression in development of specific PFC over a significant period after delivery. In order to characterize the suppressor cell population, spleen cells were prepared from offspring whose mothers were immunized and thereafter treated by anti I-Jk or anti I-Jb monoclonal antibody and complement (C') followed by adoptive transfer to normal corresponding mouse strain. Only the group that received 3R spleen cells treated with anti I-Jb monoclonal antibody and C' had no suppressed PFC. To clarify the suppressor site in offspring, precursor B-cells of experimental offspring responded as hapten specific antibody forming cells by employing homologous hapten and heterologous carrier antigens. These results suggest mechanisms for suppression in offspring whose mothers were stimulated during pregnancy. PMID- 2527773 TI - [Hypercoagulation and recurrence of cerebral infarct]. AB - We measured plasma levels of fibrinopeptide A (FPA) and beta-thromboglobulin (BTG) in 27 patients, two months after first stroke. FPA, a sensitive index of "in vivo" hypercoagulability, was significantly higher in stroke patients than in 40 age- and sex-matched controls, and in patients with cerebral infarction who experienced recurrence within 5 years than in those who remained asymptomatic. On the contrary, FPA levels had no prognostic significance among patients with hemorrhagic stroke. Also BTG, an index of platelet activation, was higher in patients than in controls, but it was not associated with stroke recurrence. In a multivariate analysis of hemostatic and clinical variables, only FPA levels greater than 4 ng/ml were significantly related to cerebral reinfarction. These results support the role of hypercoagulability in the recurrence of ischemic stroke and allow identification of patients at high risk of cerebral reinfarction, providing a rationale for clinical trials of anticoagulant therapy in this subgroup. PMID- 2527774 TI - [Results of emergency aortocoronary bypass in complicated coronary angioplasty]. AB - Sixteen out of 293 (5.4%) procedures for percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty, performed between 1985 and 1988, were complicated by acute closure and required emergency revascularization surgery. The injured vessel was the left anterior descending artery in 14 cases and the right coronary artery in 2 cases. All patients had persistent chest pain associated with ST-segment elevation in 14 cases and ST-segment depression in 2 cases. Two patients developed cardiogenic shock and were in cardiac arrest at the beginning of operation; one of these died immediately after the operation. Thus the overall mortality rate was 6.2%. Enzyme evidence of myocardial infarction (CPK-MB greater than 40 UI/I) occurred postoperatively in 8 patients (50%), but only the 6 patients (37.5%) with electrocardiographic evidence of myocardial necrosis (new Q-waves or loss of R wave voltage) showed akinesis of the myocardium perfused by the occluded vessel at the echocardiographic examination performed two weeks after the operation. The occurrence of myocardial infarction was correlated with the degree of preoperative ischemia and hemodynamic deterioration. A collateral flow was present in 3 cases and none of these showed evidence of myocardial necrosis after the operation. Our results show that emergency bypass surgery for failed coronary angioplasty is less satisfactory than elective surgery, and has a higher mortality and myocardial infarction rate. Thus, the risk of emergency operation for complicated dilation must be considered when selecting of candidates for coronary angioplasty. PMID- 2527775 TI - [Atrial natriuretic factor in acute atrial hyperkinetic arrhythmia and chronic atrial fibrillo-flutter]. AB - The aim of this paper was to study atrial natriuretic factor, plasma renin activity and antidiuretic hormone values during paroxysmal atrial arrhythmias with different ventricular rates before and after pharmacological cardioversion and during chronic atrial flutter-fibrillation. The study was carried out: 1) during acute arrhythmias (atrial flutter-fibrillation or supraventricular tachycardia) and after restoration of normal sinus rhythm in 2 patients without heart disease, in 13 with chronic heart disease and in 6 with acute myocardial infarction; 2) during chronic atrial flutter-fibrillation in 5 patients with chronic ischemic heart disease, without congestive heart failure. Atrial natriuretic factor, aldosterone, plasma renin activity and antidiuretic hormone values were measured by radio-immunoassay. During paroxysmal atrial arrhythmias atrial natriuretic factor levels were higher than normal in all patients, particularly in those with supraventricular tachycardia. Most of the aldosterone measurements were above the normal range. As far as plasma renin activity and antidiuretic hormone values are concerned, levels higher than the normal range were found in the patients with severe hemodynamic impairment. Central venous pressure was above normal in all patients except in the 2 without heart disease, and there was a positive correlation between atrial natriuretic factor and central venous pressure values. After restoration of normal sinus rhythm atrial natriuretic factor values returned to normal except in acute myocardial infarction patients, in 1 chronic ischemic heart disease patient with congestive heart failure and in 3 patients with mitral valve disease. In all patients with chronic atrial flutter-fibrillation and in 5 patients with acute atrial flutter fibrillation and low rate, above normal atrial natriuretic factor values were found with normal central venous pressure values. Atrial distension due to high central venous pressure values, lack of atrial contraction and rhythmic detension of the atrial stretch receptors, may be considered the major stimuli responsible for atrial natriuretic factor release during acute paroxysmal atrial arrhythmias and atrial flutter-fibrillation with low ventricular rate, respectively. PMID- 2527776 TI - Age differences between distributions of genotypes among pregnant women: evidence of fertility selection. AB - The number of children produced by a modern woman is usually below her total reproductive capacity and is determined by circumstances other than natural selection. It is, therefore, practically impossible to detect differences in natural fertilities associated with different types (e.g. phenotypes, genotypes) of women. This does not mean, however, that natural selection at the reproductive level cannot at all be detected today. If women of a particular type have high natural fertility, this usually means that they reproduce (become pregnant) at a higher rate than women of a type with lower natural fertility. Hence, when there is a limit on the number of children, women of the first type will reach the limit at an earlier age than women of the second type. As a result, types that have a higher natural fertility should be overrepresented among pregnant women of younger ages and, consequently, underrepresented among older ones, as compared to types with a lower natural fertility. Based on this notion, a model of age related differences between distributions of types among pregnant women is suggested. The model is applied to data on MNSs-blood group and PGM1 (phosphoglucomutase) types in a sample of pregnant women and an evidence of natural selection at the reproduction level associated with these genetic markers is obtained. PMID- 2527777 TI - Geographic pathology of amyloidosis. PMID- 2527778 TI - Expression vector with two-step control by the cI-pR-Q-p'R-qut-t'R module of coliphage lambda. AB - A plasmid expression vector (pCEQ3), using temperature-regulated transcription from the p'R promoter of bacteriophage lambda, has been constructed. The vector is derived from pBR327 in which the EcoRI-ClaI fragment of plasmid DNA is replaced with a 2.2-kb DNA module cI857-pR-Q-p'R-qut-t'R, consisting of two regions of the lambda genome. The first region contains the repressor gene cI857 and promoter pR; the second one contains gene Q and the late promoter p'R. When the repressor protein, product of the cI857 gene, becomes temperature inactivated, it allows the promoter pR to initiate the transcription of the Q gene. The product of the Q gene, in turn, acts as a positive regulator of transcription from promoter p'R. The promoter activity of pR is fully repressed at a low temperature (30 degrees C) and transcription from p'R is terminated in the absence of Q gene product, but the shift of temperature up to 37 degrees C is sufficient to make the transcription from the p'R promoter highly active. Foreign genes can be inserted into the single EcoRI site downstream from the p'R promoter. The resultant constructions express extremely high levels of the cloned gene product in Escherichia coli. PMID- 2527779 TI - Cloning and expression of the branching enzyme gene (glgB) from the cyanobacterium Synechococcus sp. PCC7942 in Escherichia coli. AB - Using the glgB gene from Escherichia coli as a hybridization probe, the gene encoding the branching enzyme of the cyanobacterium Synechococcus sp. PCC7942 has been identified on a 3.9-kb PstI fragment which was cloned into plasmid pUC9. Two types of plasmids have been isolated. Plasmid pKVN1 was expressing the Synechococcus sp. gene as was shown by complementation of the glgB mutation of E. coli KV832. Plasmid pKVN2, which carried the same insert in the opposite orientation was unable to complement E. coli KV832, indicating that the promoter of the cloned gene was either absent or was not recognized in E. coli. Determination of branching activity in extracts of Synechococcus sp. and E. coli KV832[pKVN1] showed that the enzyme was optimally active at approximately 35 degrees C. No significant activity was present at temperatures higher than 55 degrees C, reflecting the mesophilic nature of the cloned enzyme. In a cell-free coupled transcription-translation system the cloned gene specified two proteins of 84 kDa and 72 kDa, respectively, which are probably translated independently from the same gene by initiation at two different start codons. PMID- 2527780 TI - High level expression of genes cloned in phage lambda gt11. AB - Plasmid cloning vectors have been constructed which allow genes originally cloned in lambda gt11 to be expressed at a high level in Escherichia coli. They are based on the pEMBL and pUC vectors, with the genes transcribed from the lac promoter. The EcoRI site in the vector has been altered to be in the same reading frame as the site used for cloning in lambda gt11. Cloned proteins are expressed fused to a 2-kDa leader sequence containing a run of six Aparagine residues which considerably improves the stability of the recombinant proteins, but does not interfere with immunological assays. Using these vectors, the Mycobacterium leprae 18-kDa protein was expressed at 20 mg per litre of culture and constituted 15% of total cell protein. PMID- 2527781 TI - [Hygienic evaluation of occupational quantization of the activities of finishing shop workers]. AB - Highlighted are the data on the functional state of the cardiovascular, respiratory and muscular systems of schoolchildren and adult workers, the data obtained while using systems quantitation of professional activity. It is shown that compared to workers the schoolchildren perform various operations of production quantum with higher physiologic strain. Established changes in systole frequency of schoolchildren confirm some strain of their functional circulatory system because of insufficient training and higher response of the cardiovascular system to work load. The use of systems quantitation during the working process enables one to identify a number of determinant affecting the process of forming schoolchildren's vocational skills and functional state. PMID- 2527782 TI - [Specific work processes in sailors of the Arctic navy at "ice moorages" and their effect on various body systems]. AB - A complex clinico-physiologic study of the functional state of sailors engaged in loading and discharge works at high latitudes during winter navigation period helped to establish the impact of climatic and occupational processes on the state of cardiovascular, respiratory, central nervous, immune, thermoregulatory and muscular systems of the examined sailors. PMID- 2527783 TI - [Ways of improving working conditions and reducing morbidity at plastic processing plants]. AB - The characteristics of forming adequate labour conditions in plastic-working shops have been analyzed. Significant role is attributed to labour organization at workplaces and technology of working and assembly of plastic products. Disorders associated with the characteristics of labour conditions prevail in the disease pattern of those working in different shops. Recommendations on the improvement of labour conditions and reduction of disease rates are provided. PMID- 2527784 TI - [Problems of creating optimal conditions for the activities of sanitary and epidemiologic stations regarding radiation hygiene]. PMID- 2527785 TI - [Professional and official requirements of physicians regarding radiation hygiene at sanitary and epidemiologic branch stations]. PMID- 2527786 TI - [Activities of the Public Health Department of the Acad. I.P. Pavlov Ryazan Medical Institute (on its 25th anniversary)]. PMID- 2527787 TI - [Current problems of health education in preventing helminthiasis]. PMID- 2527788 TI - [The role of various pesticides in nitrosamine-induced carcinogenesis]. PMID- 2527789 TI - [Causes of primary disability of miners at the iron ore mining-processing plants]. AB - Causes of primary invalidism of miners at an ore-dressing plant are presented. When analyzing the data, miners' occupation, age and length of service have been taken into account. Some preventive measures are set forth. PMID- 2527790 TI - Mediators of vasopressin induced natriuresis in cirrhosis--possible role of atrial natriuretic factor. PMID- 2527791 TI - Brugia malayi: status of host during different stages of infection. AB - The status of glycogen, protein, lipid components, lipid peroxides and a few enzymes of energy metabolism was studied in liver of Mastomys natalensis during the development of Brugia malayi infection. Glycogen and lipid contents were decreased during the patent phase of infection while total protein was slightly altered in latent animals. Phospholipid and triglyceride contents declined at prepatent and patent phase of infection. The levels of lactate and malate dehydrogenases, as well as of adenosine triphosphatases (Na+K+, Mg2+, Ca2+), were significantly elevated and monoamine oxidase activity was decreased at patent phase of infection, while succinic dehydrogenase remained unaltered. The lipid peroxide formation was enhanced in liver during the development of filarial infection. PMID- 2527792 TI - An analysis of Trichinella pseudospiralis excretions and study of their effect on striated muscles of mouse. AB - The causes of changes observed after infection of muscles with Trichinella pseudospiralis larvae were studied. The changes are not only regressive, but also proliferative (activation and mitosis of satellite cells and formation of new myotubes). By means of high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and an original method it was found that T. pseudospiralis larvae excrete into their environment among others a great amount of n-butylamine. A direct application of n-butylamine into the gluteal muscle of mouse supported the assumption that this amine is one of the factors causing the changes in muscles induced by T. pseudospiralis infection. The application of n-butylamine into the muscle resulted in regressive and regenerative changes similar to that observed in case of T. pseudospiralis infection. PMID- 2527793 TI - Regeneration in mouse skeletal muscle injured by Trichinella larvae. AB - During the infection caused by Trichinella pseudospiralis serious damage to muscles is partly compensated with regeneration process. Short, thin fibrillae with central position of the nuclei--regenerating myotubes originate 20--40th day post infection in endomysial tubes remaining after damaged muscle fibres, left by migrating larva. On the 10th day post infection in the vicinity of moving larva activation of nuclei and increased origin of satellite cells under basal membrane occur. With development of the infection endothelia in the vicinity of altered fibrillae are increasing in number but there is small inflammatory and fibroproductive reaction only. During the infection caused by Trichinella spiralis and T. nativa, alteration of muscle fibres is accompanied by early inflammatory and fibroproductive reaction towards immediate surroundings of larvae. In a changed segment of muscle fibre with the larva--in pseudocyst there is altered basal lamina as well, built in increased glycocalyx and in the course of 20 days encased by connective tissue. Revascularisation and regeneration in a short damaged segment does not occur even during long-lasting infection because of separation by capsule. PMID- 2527794 TI - Immunological detection of human phosphoglucomutase (PGM 1) subtypes. AB - Anti-phosphoglucomutase (PGM) antibodies have been produced by immunising a sheep with a purified preparation of rabbit skeletal muscle PGM and used to devise an immunological procedure for detecting PGM isozymes after isoelectric focusing. The anti-rabbit PGM antibodies cross react with human PGM and can be used to identify the PGM1 isozymes characteristic of this polymorphism. The patterns revealed by immunodetection are exactly comparable with those obtained by isozyme staining. PMID- 2527795 TI - [Spastic colon (irritable colon)]. AB - Spastic colon is a pathological entity whose clinical symptoms are for the most part abdominal pain, constipation and episodes of diarrhea without loss of weight. In all probability, it is merely a particularly striking presentation of a GI tract that is irritable throughout its entirety. The pathophysiological basis is a disordered propulsive bowel motoricity. Etiologically, psychological factors in the presence of an appropriate genetic or acquired disposition are conceivable. Possible mediators are considered to be noradrenalin, beta-endorphin and the corticotropin-releasing factor. The diagnosis can be established with a high degree of probability on the basis of the characteristic clinical picture. A definitive diagnosis, however, requires the very careful exclusion of other possible diagnoses. Therapy includes talks with the patient, physical and dietetic measures and the use of drugs to ameliorate diarrhea or, in the case of prokinetic agents, to re-establish normal propulsive bowel activity. PMID- 2527796 TI - [When the admitting physician is accused of a false decision in the hospital... Guiding decision for amniocentesis--some flaws]. PMID- 2527797 TI - Cardiology. Heart conscious. PMID- 2527798 TI - Chrysler challenges quality of medical care in WI. PMID- 2527799 TI - Linkage analyses of human peptidase C (PEPC), human factor H (HF), and coagulation factor XIIIB (F13B). AB - Linkage data on human peptidase C (PEPC), human factor H (HF), and coagulation factor XIIIB (F13B) are presented. The results confirm linkage between HF and F13B (lod = 5.32 at theta = 0.10 in males), and give strong evidence for linkage between PEPC and HF (lod = 5.14 at theta = 0.10 in males) and between PEPC and F13B (lod = 3.55 at theta = 0.10 in males). The claim that PEPA is linked with HF must be withdrawn. PMID- 2527800 TI - An efficient method for selecting unique-sequence clones from DNA libraries and its application to fluorescent staining of human chromosome 21 using in situ hybridization. AB - This paper describes an efficient procedure for selecting large numbers of unique sequence or very low repeat-sequence probes from recombinant phage libraries. Probes were selected from the Charon 21A library LL21NS02 (made from DNA from human chromosome 21) in a multistep process in which (1) inserts from LL21NS02 were subcloned into Bluescribe plasmids, (2) plasmids were grown at high density in colonies on nitrocellulose, and (3) plasmids were selected as containing unique-sequence inserts if DNA from the colonies failed to hybridize, at low stringency, to radiolabeled total human DNA. In this manner, 1530 colonies were picked to form the library pBS-U21/1530. About 80% of the recombinants constituting pBS-U21/1530 were shown by Southern analysis to carry inserts that are present in only one copy in haploid genomic human DNA. Approximately 70% of the sequences mapped to human chromosome 21. Fluorescence in situ hybridization with DNA from pBS-U21/1530 allowed specific, intense staining of the number 21 chromosomes in metaphase spreads made from human lymphocytes. PMID- 2527801 TI - The Alzheimer amyloid precursor protein maps to human chromosome 21 bands q21.105 q21.05. AB - The Alzheimer amyloid protein precursor (APP) has previously been localized to human chromosome 21q11.2-q21. We have refined the regional localization to a small region including chromosome bands 21q21.105-q21.05 by using quantitative Southern blot analysis of cell lines aneuploid for parts of chromosome 21. Our findings exclude the APP gene from the minimal region producing the classical phenotypic features of Down syndrome. This further narrowing of the APP location will help in identifying the physical location of the gene causing familial Alzheimer disease. PMID- 2527802 TI - Gene order, amplification, and rearrangement of chromosome band 11q23 in hematologic malignancies. AB - Eleven genes were found to be amplified in a patient with acute myelogenous leukemia and a homogeneous staining region 11q23qter. The gene order of such region was determined by using transverse alternating field electrophoresis of normal cell DNA and Southern blots of DNA from somatic cell hybrids, each containing a single human derivative chromosome 11 from six different chromosomal defects. This in turn allowed us to uncover a breakpoint in band 11q23.3 between the CD3 gamma and the ets-1 genes in genomic rearrangements found in acute myelogenous leukemia, acute lymphocytic leukemia, and B-cell diffuse lymphoma. The breakpoint of a constitutional deletion from a patient whose mother and brother have a heritable 11q23.3 fragile site occurs in the same region. PMID- 2527803 TI - Interplay between the TCR/CD3 complex and CD4 or CD8 in the activation of cytotoxic T lymphocytes. AB - Interactions between CTL and target cells occur in the absence of specific antigen recognition and precede subsequent interaction of the TCR with its specific antigen. This antigen-independent adhesion progresses through two different pathways, one involving the interaction of CD2 with LFA-3 on the target cell, the second the interaction of LFA-1 with ICAM-1. Such antigen-independent adhesions are critical for the activation of T cells via the TCR. Also, CD4 and CD8 can serve as adhesion molecules by binding to monomorphic determinants expressed on class II and class I MHC antigens, respectively, on the target cells, but compared to LFA-1 and CD2 antigens their contribution to conjugate formation is minor. CD4 and CD8 are required for effective T-cell activation in situations where the intrinsic affinity of the TCR or antigen expression is low, suggesting that CD4 and CD8 enhance the avidity of T cells for target cells by binding to class II and class I antigen, respectively. However, CD4 and CD8 are also involved in post-binding events that lead to CTL activation and subsequent lysis of the target cells. On the other hand, blocking of anti-TCR/CD3 mAb induced CTL reactivity by anti-CD4/CD8 mAbs does not necessarily involve an interference with the binding of CD4 and CD8 to their respective ligands and it has been proposed that the TCR and CD4 or CD8 form functional complexes that are required for optimal T-cell activation. It is still unclear whether blocking by anti-CD4/CD8 mAbs is based on the prevention of complex formation of the TCR with CD4 or CD8, since formation of such complexes has yet to be demonstrated. The alternative hypothesis, that anti-CD4/anti-CD8 mAbs can directly confer negative regulatory signals to the CTL is not supported by our studies with antibody directed lysis mediated by a CD4+, CD8+ CTL clone. Anti-CD4/CD8 mAbs can also inhibit T-cell cytotoxicity induced by other T-cell surface activation antigens such as CD2 or Tp103. In these situations, the triggering may involve signals transferred via CD3 requiring functional CD3/CD8 or CD3/CD4 complexes. Although most studies investigating the sequence of events leading to T-cell activation are carried out with CTL, preliminary data indicate that the same mechanisms described here for CTL activation are probably also valid for the interactions of T-helper cells with APC or B cells.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2527804 TI - Regulation of human neutrophil type 3 complement receptor (iC3b receptor) expression during phagocytosis of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. AB - Human neutrophils (PMN) express a receptor for iC3b, a cleavage product of C3b. CR3 is an important receptor for phagocytosis of opsonized bacteria and its expression is enhanced by cell activation. We examined PMN CR3 expression during phagocytosis using flow cytometry and a CR3-specific monoclonal antibody. After 30 min phagocytosis of opsonized S. aureus and E. coli, CR3 expression increased to 151% and 221% of controls, respectively. Unopsonized S. aureus had no effect on CR3; however, unopsonized E. coli enhanced CR3 expression despite not being phagocytosed. Time-kinetic studies indicated a rapid initial fall in CR3 after addition of bacteria to PMN, followed by enhanced expression within 5-10 min. The initial fall in CR3 probably represented CR3 internalization rather than receptor destruction, as superoxide dismutase, catalase and protease inhibitors had no effect on this. Correlation of CR3 expression with the PMN oxidative response, measured with the intracellular fluorescent probe DCF-DA, demonstrated a dichotomy. Opsonized S. aureus and E. coli caused an oxidative response from PMN but unopsonized E. coli, which caused significant CR3 up-regulation, did not. CR3 up-regulation with unopsonized and opsonized E. coli was markedly inhibited by Polymyxin B, suggesting a role for endotoxin. These experiments indicate that CR3 expression can be regulated during phagocytosis, and the mechanisms responsible are distinct from those involved in the oxidative burst. CR3 up-regulation following exposure to bacteria in vivo may enhance neutrophil function at sites of infection. PMID- 2527805 TI - Soluble fragments of the low-affinity IgE receptor (CD23) inhibit the spontaneous migration of U937 monocytic cells: neutralization of MIF-activity by a CD23 antibody. AB - U937 monocytic cells were found to respond by diminished spontaneous migration when confronted with affinity-purified soluble fragments of the low-affinity receptor for IgE (FcER2/CD23). Unlike B lymphoma cells, U937 cells could not be activated to respond with enhanced DNA synthesis through their membrane-bound CD23 antigen by MHM6, a monoclonal antibody within the CD23 cluster. MHM6 did, however, effectively neutralize the U937-directed MIF (migration inhibition factor) activity contained within the soluble CD23 preparations. The findings not only suggest a role for soluble CD23 as a novel cytokine at sites of inflammation but also indicate different functions for the membrane-bound forms expressed on B cells and monocytes. PMID- 2527806 TI - Membrane-associated complement factor H on lymphoblastoid cell lines Raji expresses a co-factor activity for the factor I-mediated cleavage of C3b. AB - Evidence of factor H was found on the surface of Raji cells derived from two different lines; a 150,000 MW species identical to 150,000 MW plasma factor H was detected. Rosette experiments performed at physiological ionic strength using EAC3b or EC3b were negative. In contrast, Raji cells expressed a co-factor activity in the factor I-mediated cleavage of fluid-phase C3b. This activity was cell number dependent and was inhibited by anti-factor H but not by anti-CR1. Raji cells did not secrete factor H in the extracellular medium. PMID- 2527807 TI - Subcellular distribution of class II major histocompatibility antigens in enterocytes of the human and rat small intestine. AB - Class II antigens encoded within the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) have been examined at the ultrastructural level in enterocytes from both man and rat. A protocol has been developed for fixation which, in conjunction with a pre embedding indirect immunoperoxidase technique preserves antigenicity of the class II molecules and allows detection of intracellular antigen. Details of the technique are provided and discussed in relation to the general paucity of information available on ultrastructural localization of class II MHC molecules. Class II MHC antigens have been identified on the basolateral cell membranes of enterocytes in both species and they have also been found in association with intracellular organelles that have the appearance of multivesicular bodies and secondary lysosomes. These observations link class II molecules with the endocytic pathway in enterocytes and suggest a possible role in the handling of gut antigens. The findings may have a more general significance in relation to the site of engagement between processed antigen and MHC molecules in specialized antigen-presenting cells. PMID- 2527808 TI - [Seborrheic keratoses studied using scanning electron microscopy]. AB - Ten seborrheic keratosis of acanthotic type have been observed by S.E.M. The morphological study could confirm the existence of two processes in the origin of the horny cysts which are peculiar to this affection. a) an extrafollicular process causes the involvement of groups of keratinocytes which, by assuming a vortex disposition, produce a concentric keratinization; b) a follicular process which causes an accentuated keratinization of the cells surrounding the epithelial sheath. This process was associated to the presence of multiple hairs a single follicle. Moreover, with higher magnification, it was possible to observe a great number of bacteria, yeasts and of particular alteration of the membrane which could be compared to changes in the tone filaments. PMID- 2527809 TI - [Pigmentation abnormalities in the course of topical immunotherapy of alopecia areata]. AB - Pigmentation troubles have been associated in the past years with contact dermatitis and patch-testing. Contact allergy and increase of pigmentation has been associated with Tinopal; on the other hand contact allergy and depigmentation have been associated with many substances such as DNCB, squaric acid dibutylester (SADBE), carbyne, alstroemeria. Leukoderma can also be produced by irritant compound such as phenols, catechols and mercaptoamines. During 1978 and 1984 we have treated 132 patients suffering from alopecia areata with DNCB or SADBE: 51 patients have been treated by DNCB and 81 by SADBE. During the treatment 10 patients developed a leukoderma vitiligo-like localized to the areas of topical application of the allergens and to the flare-up site; one patient had an increase of pigmentation. Lesions vitiligo-like appeared 10-15 weeks after the onset of treatment. Among the patients who developed leukoderma, 4 had a personal history of vitiligo. The possible pathogenetic mechanisms are discussed. PMID- 2527810 TI - [Palmar-plantar keratoderma and digital clubbing in 2 brothers]. AB - Two cases of clubbing of fingers and toes with congenital keratosis palmo plantaris are reported. After a quick review of the factors involved in clubbing and keratoderma palmaris et plantaris, the inheritance tendency is discussed. PMID- 2527811 TI - Interaction between C3 and IL-2; inhibition of C3b binding to CR1 by IL-2. AB - We previously reported that C3 has a role in the enhancement of the IL-2 dependent proliferation of helper T cells. Because the IL-2R has a structural homology with the complement proteins, such as CR1 and CR2, we studied the possible ligand crossreactions on CR1 and IL-2-receptor, and the direct interaction between C3 and IL-2. While C3 has an enhancing effect on the IL-2 dependent proliferation of HT-2, a CR1-positive mouse T-cell line, the growth of the CTLL-16 line (CR1-negative) is not affected by C3. It has been proven that neither the insolubilized C3 nor the soluble C3b-like C3 react with the IL-2 binding epitope of the IL-2 receptor. However, using human RBC we have demonstrated that the binding of aggregated C3 to CR1 is inhibited by rIL-2, in a dose-dependent manner. When RBC were incubated with rIL-2 and FITC-labelled Fab anti-CR1 simultaneously, there was no inhibition in the fluorescence intensity. As detected by ELISA, rIL-2 was bound to the same extent by insolubilized C3, C3b, and C3c, while C3d coat had lower binding capacity. The receptor-binding epitope of IL-2 is intact in the complex of complement proteins and rIL-2, as demonstrated by the binding of DMS1, a monoclonal antibody reacting with the receptor site of IL-2. It is strongly suggested that C3b may play a role in the growth of CR1 positive T cells. PMID- 2527812 TI - Selective expression of CD45 isoforms and of maturation antigens during human thymocyte differentiation: observations and hypothesis. AB - Selective expression of high and low molecular weight isoforms of CD45 (T200) occurs coincident with activation of mature T lymphocytes. Expression of CD45 p180 and CDw29 defines antigen-experienced memory T cells in the periphery, and expression of CD45R (CD45 p205/220) defines naive T cells. Upon activation, CD45R+ T cells lose CD45R and acquire CD45 p180 and high density CDw29. In this review we discuss the expression of CD45 isoforms, CDw29, pgp-1 and CD1 on human thymocytes and develop the hypothesis that expression of CD45R marks the generative thymic lineage while expression of CD45 p180 marks those cells destined for intrathymic death. This hypothesis is supported by evidence from phenotypic, molecular and functional analysis of thymocyte subsets. We propose that expression of high molecular weight isoforms of CD45 is essential for growth and differentiation of immature T cells and that inappropriate rearrangement or specificity of TCR activates a transition from expression of CD45R to that of CD45 p180 and intrathymic death. PMID- 2527813 TI - CD45 and the thymus. PMID- 2527814 TI - Subpopulations of B lymphocytes in germinal centers, II. A germinal center B cell subpopulation expresses sIgD and CD23. AB - To understand B cell development in germinal centers, it is important to delineate the expression of surface antigens among germinal center cells. Because it is unclear whether germinal center cells express common antigens such as sIgD and CD23, we studied their expression among tonsillar lymphocytes with flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, and in vitro stimulation. Upon studying a large number of tonsils with flow cytometry, we found that occasional tonsils have a very large number of sIgD+ cells among their PNA+ cells. Furthermore, the occasional tonsils with a large number of sIgD+ and PNA+ cells also have many CD23+ cells among their PNA+ cells. Tonsil sections stained immunohistochemically revealed germinal centers containing sIgD+ cells. In addition, PNA- and sIgD+ cells can be induced to express PNA binding sites in vitro without losing the expression of sIgD. Taking these findings together, we conclude that a subpopulation of germinal center B cells coexpresses sIgD and CD23. PMID- 2527815 TI - Interleukin 5 is a differentiation factor for cytotoxic T lymphocytes. AB - The role of IL-5 on the generation of cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) was analysed using a culture system in which production of T helper cell factors was abrogated by exposure of the stimulator cells to ultraviolet irradiation. Supernatants from a T helper cell line (2.19 sup), recombinant (r) IL-2, rIL-4 and rIL-5 were then tested for the capacity to replace T cell help, on the generation of CTL. The results showed that the specific CTL response, in unseparated spleen cells, could be reconstituted by either 2.19 sup, IL-2 or IL-4. However, if the responder cells were purified in nylon wool, only 2.19 sup or rIL-4 plus rIL-5, but not each lymphokine per se, reconstituted the CTL response. Because IL-5 does not support T cell proliferation, it is suggested that IL-5 induces differentiation of immature precursors into CTL. Based on these findings and in an attempt to conciliate the conflicting views that have emerged from different reports, as to whether IL-2 by itself could support generation of CTL in purified T cells, a hypothesis is formulated, suggesting that T cell at different stages of differentiation require distinct lymphokines to acquire CTL effector function. PMID- 2527816 TI - Proliferation of resting B cells is modulated by CR2 and CR1. AB - Absence of the third component of complement, C3, is associated with impaired ability to synthesize antibody, particularly in the presence of limiting antigen [1-9]. The mature B lymphocyte bearing the surface immunoglobulin receptor transduces signals for proliferation and differentiation upon binding of specific antigen. This mature B cell also bears two related membrane proteins, CR2 (the C3d/Epstein-Barr virus receptor) (CD35) [15], which can mediate the binding of ligands to which appropriate cleavage fragments of C3 have become attached [16]. It has been suggested that these receptors play a direct role(s) in B cell activation [17-25]. In light of previous in vivo observations we decided to assess the function of CR2 and CR1 in relation to B cell activation through the membrane IgM receptor. Highly purified splenic B cells were prepared. No contaminating T cells or macrophages were detected by flow cytometric analysis and no proliferative activity was present upon PHA or ConA stimulation of the purified cells. The B cells were separated into low (activated), medium (preactivated) and high density (resting) fractions by Percoll gradient density centrifugation [26]. The responses of the B cell subpopulations to various concentrations of anti mu (DA4.4 monoclonal antibody) [27] were examined for proliferation at 72 h and for IgM/IgG production at 7 days. Low density B cells were maximally stimulated and no concentration of anti-mu was effective in enhancing their responses. High density B cells proliferated to anti-mu in a concentration dependent manner. When substimulatory concentrations of anti-mu were employed, concomitant crosslinking of CR2 (with either of 2 distinct monoclonal antibodies HB-5 [28] or OKB7 [17]) resulted in a 45% enhancement of B cell proliferation above that observed by crosslinking of SIgM alone. In these studies, total IgM and IgG did not increase in the absence of T cells or T cell factors, indicating that terminal differentiation did not occur. In contrast, when a monoclonal antibody to CR1(44D) [29] was employed in an identical experiment, B cell proliferation was completely inhibited. Antibodies to CR2 or CR1 either alone or in crosslinked form did not enhance B cell proliferation. Immune complexes may crosslink the B cell surface in a manner analogous to our model when the immunoglobulin receptor and CR2 are simultaneously engaged. This activation signal may be particularly important in eliciting antibody responses when the quantity of specific antigen or the affinity for antigen is low. The marked inhibition of proliferation induced by CR1 suggests an alternate role for this receptor in modulation of B cell responses. PMID- 2527817 TI - Ligands of CR2 do not interfere with C3 fragment fixation or enhanced NK sensitivity of Raji cells treated with human serum. AB - Raji cells activate the alternative complement pathway (ACP) and fix C3 fragments when incubated in human serum (HS). Earlier experiments have shown that CR2 molecules are involved in this phenomenon and the opsonized cells have elevated sensitivity to the lytic effect of CR3-bearing NK cells. We show here that Raji cells treated with CR2 site-specific ligands, (C3d, OKB-7 and HB-5 mAbs, and a synthetic peptide which binds to CR2) generated and bound C3 fragments after exposure to HS. The elevated lytic sensitivity of HS-treated cells was not altered by the presence of the various CR2 ligands. Thus, the membrane-bound C3 fragments are not fixed at the C3dg receptor binding site. PMID- 2527818 TI - Screening for renovascular hypertension. A which hunt. PMID- 2527819 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor in hypertension: bioactivity at normal plasma levels. AB - To ascertain whether small shifts in plasma atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) exerted biological effects in hypertension, we studied the renal, hemodynamic, and hormonal effects of ANF [human ANF-(99-126)] infused at a dose (0.75 pmol/kg/min for 3 hours) that would induce changes in plasma ANF confined to the normal, resting range, in a group of six young men with uncomplicated, mild essential hypertension. During ANF infusions, the patients excreted 11.8 +/- 2.0 mmol (mean +/- SEM) sodium more than during the time-matched placebo phase natriuresis (p less than 0.001, mean increase of 53% above placebo values). Urinary excretion of cyclic guanosine monophosphate rose to more than double (212%, p less than 0.001) placebo values. Plasma renin activity (0.4 +/- 0.05 vs. 0.9 +/- 0.12 nmol/l/hr, p less than 0.0001) and aldosterone concentrations (102 +/- 4 vs. 184 +/- 47 pmol/l, p less than 0.05) were clearly suppressed during administration of ANF. Plasma norepinephrine also fell significantly below placebo values (268 +/- 17 vs. 439 +/- 35 pg/ml, p less than 0.05). Urine volume, the excretion of electrolytes other than sodium, hematocrit, effective renal plasma flow, glomerular filtration rate, and filtration fraction were unaffected by ANF. Similarly, plasma concentrations of epinephrine, arginine vasopressin, adrenocorticotropic hormone, and cortisol were unchanged. Blood pressure and heart rate were unchanged. Minor perturbations in plasma ANF concentrations exert clear biological effects in patients with mild essential hypertension. These data suggest that such minor shifts in plasma ANF are of physiological relevance in mild hypertension and probably contribute to volume homeostasis in this condition. PMID- 2527820 TI - Increase in glial intracellular K+ in drone retina caused by photostimulation but not mediated by an increase in extracellular K+. AB - The predominant glial cells of the drone retina (outer pigment cells) respond to an increase in extracellular [K+] (Ko) by a net uptake of K+; thus, they contribute to bringing Ko back toward its baseline value. The authors report herein that there is also a different mechanism by which light stimulation of the retina causes an increase in intracellular free [K+] in the glial cells. In superfused retinal slices, after 5-10 minutes of continuous illumination at physiological intensities, extracellular [K+] often fell back to below its original level in the dark. This fall can be explained by increased activity of the Na/K pump in the photoreceptors and diffusion of K+ down their axons. Despite the absence of raised Ko, K+-selective microelectrodes in glial cells recorded a small increase in intracellular [K+] that was maintained for the duration of the illumination; i.e. a change occurred in the glia that was not mediated by an increase in Ko. The increase in intracellular [K+] is not mediated by illumination of the screening pigment in the glia. Unless the increase is caused by illumination of some other, unknown, pigment in the glia, the results show that some unidentified signal (that is not K+) passes from the photoreceptors to the glia. PMID- 2527821 TI - Gliosis in the spinal cords of rats with experimental allergic encephalomyelitis: immunostaining of carbonic anhydrase and vimentin in reactive astrocytes. AB - Spinal cord sections from rats sensitized to develop experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) were immunostained with antibodies against glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), carbonic anhydrase, and vimentin, to see whether the latter two antigens could be detected in GFAP-positive reactive astrocytes. Sixteen days after sensitization (16 dpi) there was intense carbonic anhydrase immunostaining in GFAP-positive cells in the spinal cords of EAE rats, particularly in the white matter. At 13 and 20 dpi carbonic anhydrase immunostaining in astrocytes was less intense, and in the spinal cord white matter of control animals carbonic anhydrase was not detected in the few GFAP positive cells. In the spinal cords of EAE rats vimentin immunostaining was observed in inflammatory cells and astrocytes. In the latter, GFAP and carbonic anhydrase were colocalized with vimentin. The data suggest that carbonic anhydrase expression in astrocytes is an acute response to injury and that vimentin can be detected in astrocytes, as well as inflammatory cells, as early as 16 dpi. PMID- 2527822 TI - Attempt to classify glial cells by means of their process specialization using the rabbit retinal Muller cell as an example of cytotopographic specialization of glial cells. AB - The rabbit retinal Muller cell is one of the most widely studied glial cell types, and it has all forms of contacts that a glial cell can express, viz. 1) to a (ventricular) fluid space, 2) to a mesenchymal borderline (basal lamina), and 3) to neuronal compartments. This cell demonstrates the local adaptation of cell processes to the microenvironment with which they are in contact. Summarizing available data on Muller cells and other glial cell types, it is concluded that the structure with which the process is in contact determines the type of glial cell process that develops. The type I process has microvilli, desmosome-like junctions, and high Na+,K+-ATPase activity; this type of process is in direct contact with a fluid such as cerebrospinal fluid. The type II endfoot-bearing process contains gliofilaments and has a high K+ conductivity; this type of process is covered by a basal lamina and is in contact with mesenchyme. The type III sheath-bearing process insulates neuronal compartments and expresses suitable membrane properties for glia-neuronal communication. Since structurally similar processes have been shown to have similar physiological properties, a new systematic classification of glial cells is proposed, based on the presence or absence of defined types of cell processes. This approach is believed to provide new insights into the function of neuroglia in both the central and peripheral nervous systems, in vertebrates and invertebrates, and even during ontogenetic development. PMID- 2527823 TI - Inhibition of peroxisomal beta-oxidation and brain development in rats. AB - Thioridazine, an inhibitor of peroxisomal beta-oxidation, was administered orally to nursing rats during the period of maximal myelination in the pups (8-21 days postnatally). Under the experimental conditions, thioridazine causes accumulation of C24 and C26 fatty acids in pup brain lipids, an effect we consider to be a typical consequence of inhibited peroxisomal beta-oxidation. In the corpus callosum of treated pups, the relationship between axon diameter and myelin sheath thickness is altered compared with matched controls. Thioridazine also induces undernourishment effects in 21 day-old rats. Body and brain weight are severely reduced. Liver peroxisomes show a starvation-type metabolism. Undernourishment is known to influence myelination in developing rat brain. However, known consequences of undernourishment, such as decreased myelin concentration in whole brain, decreased percentage of myelinated fibers, and decreased granule-to-Purkinje cell ratio are not present. PMID- 2527824 TI - Dynamic morphological responses of mouse astrocytes in primary cultures following medium changes. AB - Within 5 minutes of changing the medium of 3-4 week old mouse astrocyte cultures, dramatic morphological alterations were seen in the cultures at the phase microscope level. These alterations included the appearance of membrane ruffles, followed by the formation of phase light vacuolar regions. Ultrastructurally, these ruffles could be seen as phagocytic arms, and the vacuoles appeared as blisters of the superficial cell layer. These morphological responses were due to the introduction of new serum proteins. Colloidal gold-labelled serum proteins were used to visualize the dynamics of the macromolecular uptake following this medium change. Some proteins were taken up by phagocytosis, whereas others were associated with coated vesicles and endosomal vesicles. The majority of these gold-labelled proteins were concentrated in vacuoles (presumably lysosomes) and were localized in the superficial cellular sheets. Inner cellular sheets contained little colloidal gold-labelled serum proteins, but displayed prominent pinocytotic profiles. Glucose consumption in these cultures remained constant at 1.6 mumoles/mg protein/hr. Glycogen content varied among individual cells, but it remained constant in the cultures at 60 nmoles bound glucose/mg protein throughout the 48 hour examination period. These results suggest that dense cultures of primary astrocytes may act similarly to the glia limitans. PMID- 2527825 TI - Orthogonal arrays of particles in plasma membranes of Muller cells in the guinea pig retina. AB - Plasma membranes of guinea pig Muller cells were examined with a freeze-fracture technique to see how orthogonal arrays are distributed in the avascular retina. Examination of the portion approximately intermediate between the optic disc and equator of the eyeball showed that all end-feet of Muller cells were provided with arrays. Orthogonal arrays were concentrated on vitreal end-foot membranes, i.e., membranes that were covered by the basal lamina and contacted the vitreous body, called vitreal membranes here. The arrays were rarely observed in the portions of end-feet that did not contact the vitreous body, called lateral membranes. The distribution density of arrays in the vitreal membranes was 122.5 +/- 45.3/microns2, which was over 10 times higher than that (9.6 +/- 9.6/microns2) in the lateral membranes. The arrays became numerous and extended in shape at the periphery of the vitreal membrane, characteristically aligned in rows at the border where vitreal met lateral membrane, but never intruded into the domain of lateral membrane. Some arrays were composed of loosely attached particles and/or rod-like profiles. Sometimes rod-like profiles, 9-13 nm wide and 20-50 nm long, called linear structures here, were isolated, and sometimes they appeared in rows. Ordinary intramembrane particles (IMPs) were significantly smaller and less numerous in vitreal than in lateral membranes. IMPs larger than 9 nm in diameter were significantly fewer in the vitreal membranes, which suggests that they have been consumed to form the arrays. Although the distribution of orthogonal arrays is similar to that of K+ channels (Newman: J. Neurosci., 7:2423-2432, 1987), we consider the array an unlikely candidate for the ion channel, because its subunit particles do not protrude onto either the inner or outer surface of the membrane (Gotow and Hashimoto: J. Neurocytol., 17:399-413, 1988). Judging from their unique alignment in rows where the membrane is bent and vitreal and lateral membranes meet, the arrays may contribute to some membrane stability, resisting the physical tension at the interface with mesenchymal tissue. PMID- 2527826 TI - Penetration of norfloxacin into abdominal wall muscle tissue. PMID- 2527827 TI - A mathematical model of extracorporeal antibody removal in autoimmune disease. AB - A mathematical model of T-B cell cooperation is adopted to describe autotolerance and autoimmunity. The model describes the development of plasma cells and T helper cells from their precursors through activated and proliferating cells. A state of autotolerance is simulated by reducing the rate of T precursors supply (partial clonal deletion theory), while the normal rate yields a stable state of autoimmunity. During the state of autoimmunity extra-corporeal removal of autoantibody and immunosuppression are simulated. Removal of auto-antibody alone results in stimulation of the immune system and quick return to the previous state, mainly on account of activation of memory cells. Antibody overshooting is negligible. Immunosuppression leads to a slow decline in the antibody level. Synergy is clearly demonstrated between both therapies. PMID- 2527828 TI - Assessment of left ventricular function from the electrocardiogram in left bundle branch block. AB - The QRS duration, maximum right precordial S amplitude, sum of amplitudes of the maximum right precordial S and T wave and T wave polarity in lead I have been analyzed in order to identify electrocardiographic predictors of left ventricular end-diastolic volume index and ejection fraction in 165 patients with complete left bundle branch block and various forms of heart disease. Multivariate analysis selected the duration, maximal amplitude of the S wave and polarity of the T wave in decreasing order of discriminatory power, which correctly identify 76.6% of the patients with a normal end-diastolic volume index less than or equal to 90 ml/m2 and a normal ejection fraction greater than or equal to 60% (n = 64) and 73.3% of those with an end-diastolic volume index greater than 90 ml/m2 or an ejection fraction less than 60% (n = 101). The comparisons of the QRS duration with the end-diastolic volume index and the ejection fraction give the best single correlations: r = 0.57 and -0.63, respectively. Multiple correlations lead to no substantial improvement of the r values: 0.06 and -0.65, respectively. A QRS duration less than 140 msec is almost always predictive of the presence of a normal end-diastolic volume index and a normal ejection fraction (sensitivity 100%, specificity 91.9%, positive predictive value 73.3%). A QRS duration greater than 170 msec is most accurate in predicting depressed left ventricular ejection fraction less than 55% (sensitivity 36.5%, specificity 98%, positive predictive value 92%). Thus, only the QRS duration provides a useful reference and guide for the evaluation of left ventricular function in the presence of left bundle branch block. PMID- 2527829 TI - Comparison of the effects of captopril and enoximone in patients with severe heart failure: a placebo controlled double-blind study. AB - The effects of enoximone, a new cyclic adenosine monophosphate phosphodiesterase inhibitor, were compared with those of captopril in a double-blind study in a group of 10 patients with severe heart failure. Four weeks treatment with enoximone improved symptom-limited exercise tolerance from a mean value of 11.33 to 13.36 minutes (P less than 0.05) and 4 weeks of captopril treatment from 11.01 to 13.92 minutes (P less than 0.05). Four of the patients had a greater exercise tolerance taking enoximone, the remaining 6 while taking captopril. Both drugs reduced perceived exertion during submaximal exercise. Minute ventilation measured at rest and during submaximal exercise was also reduced by both drugs. Resting and post exercise calf blood flow was increased to a similar extent with captopril (P less than 0.03) and enoximone (P less than 0.005). There was no difference in calf blood flow and calf vascular resistance between the drugs suggesting that the peripheral haemodynamic effects of enoximone are due to peripheral vasodilatation. Enoximone is a useful drug for the treatment of patients with severe heart failure. PMID- 2527830 TI - Phase differences between left ventricular wall motion and transmitral flow in man: evidence for involvement of ventricular restoring forces in normal rapid filling. AB - To assess the possible role of restoring forces underlying left ventricular wall motion during rapid filling, the time relations between left ventricular dimensions and filling velocity were studied by digitised M-mode and Doppler echocardiography in 23 normal children and 43 patients: 11 with mild and 17 with severe mitral regurgitation, and 15 with left ventricular hypertrophy due to aortic stenosis. In normal children, peak mitral flow velocity characteristically lagged peak rate of dimension increase by 50 +/- 15 msec, and peak rate of posterior wall thinning by 35 +/- 15 msec, (P less than 0.01 for both). Towards the apex, and along the long axis of the ventricle, these phase differences between dimension and flow velocity were not apparent. The characteristic time relations between flow velocity and transverse dimension were also present in patients with left ventricular hypertrophy or mild mitral regurgitation, but when mitral regurgitation was severe they were lost and there was no significant difference in timing between peak flow velocity and peak rate of dimension change (-2 +/- 30 msec) or wall thinning (-4 +/- 25 msec). We conclude that phase differences between left ventricular wall motion and mitral inflow velocity are present in the normal ventricles of children. They cannot be explained on the basis of simple shape changes or passive filling of the relaxing ventricle, but strongly suggest the additional presence of ventricular restoring forces. They persist in patients with left ventricular hypertrophy or mild mitral regurgitation, but are lost when the regurgitation is severe, the filling pattern reverting to that predicted for passive distension of the ventricular cavity by a high left atrial pressure. PMID- 2527831 TI - Immunoreactive beta-endorphin and met- and leu-enkephalin contents in pancreas and pituitary of corpulent (cp/cp) rats. AB - Previous reports have provided suggestive evidence for a role of endogenous opiates in modulating feeding behavior as well as insulin secretion from the pancreas. This evidence includes pharmacologic studies as well as studies of endogenous opioid peptides in tissues of genetically obese rodent models. In the present study, content of three opioid peptide immunoreactivities (beta endorphin, met-enkephalin and leu-enkephalin) were measured in pituitary and pancreas of two recently described, genetically obese rats, the LA/N-cp and the SHR/N-cp. Although both of these inbred strains carry the same cp allele, the SHR cp rat is obese and diabetic by 8 weeks of age, while the LA/N-cp is obese but remains euglycemic. There were no significant differences in content of immunoreactive beta-endorphin, met-enkephalin or leu-enkephalin in whole pituitary, posterior or anterior lobes of the pituitary, or pancreas which could be ascribed to the effect of the obese phenotype. These data are in contrast to previously reported studies in which significant alterations in opioid peptide immunoreactivities were found in genetically obese Zucker fa/fa rats, C57BL/6 ob/ob mice and C57BL/Ks db/db mice. The present work provides no support for pathological involvement of opioid peptides in the genetically obese cp/cp rat. PMID- 2527832 TI - Capillary fluxmeter: the simultaneous measurement of hematocrit, velocity and flux. AB - An automated technique was developed for the measurement of capillary hematocrit in vivo. The method is based on the photometric detection of the passage of the red blood cells (RBC) through video photometric windows. Red blood cell flux is derived from the primary measurement of opacity and velocity, as opposed to frequency of cell passage and cell transit time. Consequently the technique is less prone to errors caused by the detection of joined cells. Tests in muscle capillaries, compared with hand count frame-by-frame analysis shows that the difference in measured flux is of the order of 16%. Fluctuations due to vasomotion are easily recorded by this approach. PMID- 2527833 TI - [Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty, local thrombolysis and percutaneous thrombus extraction in the treatment of arterial occlusions of the extremities]. PMID- 2527834 TI - The evolution of spondylolysis into spondylolisthesis during adult age. AB - Over a period of two and a half years 7 cases of isthmic spondylolisthesis in adults were observed. Radiographs which had been taken from 7 to 28 years previously, when the patients were aged 27 to 44 years, revealed a spondylolysis in which slipping was either absent or almost imperceptible. In 5 cases the radiographs revealed a gradual increase of vertebral slipping over the years and in all these cases the onset and progression of the listhesis was associated with a decrease in the height of the underlying disc. These observations do not support the widely held view that spondylolysis gradually evolves into spondylolisthesis only during childhood or adolescence. On the contrary, they indicate that it may be initiated and become progressive during adult age. PMID- 2527835 TI - Burma: the royal and golden country. PMID- 2527836 TI - Ultrastructural study of the Ca2+-dependent ATPase activity in rat adenohypophyseal cells. AB - Ca-dependent ATPase activity in the rat anterior pituitary was demonstrated in 50 microns tissue slices of aldehyde-fixed tissue with the medium of Takano et al. (Cell Tissue Res. 243:91. 1986).--The outer surface of the plasma membrane of the parenchymal as well as the folliculo-stellate cells was lined with lead precipitate. The reaction deposit was particularly well localized in intercellular spaces both between two parenchymal cells, and between a parenchymal and a folliculo-stellate cell. A fine reaction deposit was also seen in the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus of some parenchymal cells. Elimination of Ca2+ from the tissue and the substrate medium drastically reduced the amount of reaction product. If ATP was omitted or replaced by sodium beta glycerophosphate, no reaction product was seen. Changing the Ca2+ concentration or addition of Mg2+ to the standard medium caused a decrease in reaction intensity. Substitution of Mg2+ for Ca2+ resulted, again in well-localized lead deposition which we attribute to the activity of another enzyme. We suggest that the activity we described in the membrane of glandular cells may correspond to the enzyme involved in the long-term regulation of intracellular Ca2+ level. PMID- 2527837 TI - Innervation of regenerated spindles in muscle grafts of the rat. AB - Features of the nerve supply and the encapsulated fibers of muscle spindles were assessed in grafted and normal extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscles of rats by analysis of serial 10-microns frozen transverse sections stained for enzymes which delineated motor and sensory endings, oxidative capacity and muscle fiber type. The number of fibers was significantly more variable, and branched fibers were more frequently observed in regenerated spindles than in control spindles. Forty-eight percent of regenerated spindles received sensory innervation. Spindles reinnervated by afferents had a larger periaxial space than did spindles which were not reinnervated by afferents. Regenerated fibers innervated by afferents had small cross-sectional areas, equatorial regions with myofibrils restricted to the periphery of fibers, unpredictable patterns of nonuniform and nonreversible staining along the length of the fiber for 'myofibrillar' adenosine triphosphatase (mATPase) after acid and alkaline preincubation. In contrast, regenerated fibers devoid of sensory innervation resembled extrafusal fibers in that they usually exhibited myofibrils throughout the length of the fiber, no central aggregations of myonuclei, uniform staining for mATPase and a reversal of staining for mATPase after preincubation in an acid or alkaline medium. Approximately thirty percent of encapsulated fibers devoid of sensory innervation stained analogous to a type I extrafusal fiber, a pattern of staining never observed in intrafusal fibers of normal spindles. Groups of encapsulated fibers all exhibiting this pattern of staining reflect that either these fibers may have been innervated by collaterals of skeletomotor axons that originally innervated type I extrafusal fibers or that fibers innervated by only fusimotor neurons express patterns of staining for mATPase similar to extrafusal fibers in the absence of sensory innervation. Sensory innervation may also influence the reestablishment of multiple sites of motor endings on regenerated intrafusal fibers. Those regenerated fibers innervated by afferents had more motor endings than did regenerated fibers devoid of sensory innervation. Differences in size, morphology, and patterns of staining for mATPase and numbers of motor endings between fibers innervated by afferents and fibers devoid of sensory innervation reflect that afferents can influence the differentiation of muscle cells and the reestablishment of motor innervation other than during the late prenatal/early postnatal period when muscle spindles form and differentiate in rats. PMID- 2527838 TI - Low back pain: diagnosis by six newly discovered sacral tender points and treatment with counterstrain. AB - Although counterstrain and exercises reestablished relative lumbar stability in a patient with chronic low back pain and lumbar hypermobility on gross and segmental motion testing, the patient still had tender points in the middle of the sacrum. After initially ignoring these tender points, we tested various release positions in an attempt to relieve the patient's discomfort. Next, we discovered that 14 patients with low back pain had tenderness at one or more of the tender points. Eventually, we discovered what we believe to be six previously undocumented medial sacral tender points. Two are located 1.5 cm directly medial to the inferior aspect of the posterior iliac spine bilaterally; two are located 1 cm medial and 1 cm superior to the inferior lateral angles bilaterally; one lies on the midline between the first and second spinous tubercles of the sacrum; and one lies on the midline on the cephalad-most border of the sacral hiatus. We describe the use of these tender points in diagnosis and their release by counterstrain technique. PMID- 2527839 TI - Arachidonate metabolites change furosemide-induced cochlear potentials. AB - Furosemide-induced changes of cochlear potentials were used as a model to study the influence of arachidonic acid metabolites on ion movements within the cochlea. No influence was exerted by the drugs Esculetin - blocking the synthesis of lipoxygenase products - and Dazoxiben - suppressing thromboxane A2 levels within the cochlea. A weakening of the furosemide-induced changes of the endocochlear potential was found when infusing the thromboxane (TX) receptor antagonists BM 13,505 and BM 13,177 before furosemide was given. This effect was also observed when pre-treating the guinea pig with a specific platelet activating factor receptor antagonist, BN 52,021, before the diuretics was given. Summating potential and cochlear microphonics remained insignificantly changed against controls. The results suggest that a TX receptor contributes to the control of ion movements within the cochlea. A possible involvement of loop diuretics' receptors is discussed. PMID- 2527840 TI - Prevalence estimates of physical disability in Bahrain--a household survey. AB - The number of disabled persons in Bahrain, and their demographic characteristics, are estimated through a national morbidity survey of about 11,251 persons from 2672 households. The results showed that 9.8 persons per 1000 population were found to be disabled, including blind, deaf, inconvenience of body or limb, and mentally handicapped. A higher prevalence ratio of disability was found in males and with advancing age. PMID- 2527841 TI - An abused psychotic preadolescent at risk for Huntington's disease. AB - An abused 10-year-old girl with a family history of Huntington's disease developed incapacitating abdominal pain with concomitant behavioral symptomatology suggestive of dementia. The pseudoneurologic nature of her symptoms was clarified through exhaustive evaluation and did not appear to be that of early-onset Huntington's disease. Assessment included pediatric, psychiatric, neurologic, and gynecologic examination; extensive radiologic and laboratory tests; and chronobiology studies. Successful treatment necessitated the integration of numerous therapeutic modalities including dynamically oriented psychotherapy, psychopharmacologic intervention, physical therapy, behavior modification, and electroconvulsive therapy. PMID- 2527842 TI - Management strategies for angina pectoris. PMID- 2527843 TI - Genetic studies on the inability of beta-galactosidase to be translocated across the Escherichia coli cytoplasmic membrane. AB - When a signal sequence is attached to beta-galactosidase, the normally cytoplasmic protein is unable to fully traverse the cytoplasmic membrane. We used a genetic approach to study those features of beta-galactosidase responsible for the block in translocation. By using both in vivo and in vitro techniques, fragments of beta-galactosidase were interposed between a signal sequence and alkaline phosphatase. The alkaline phosphatase acts as a sensor for any blocking effects of beta-galactosidase on export. From these studies, we show that multiple regions of beta-galactosidase contribute to its failure to be translocated. These results are most easily interpreted if the folding of beta galactosidase or of domains of it is responsible for the block in export. In addition, in certain constructs, positively charged amino acids directly following the signal sequence interfered with export. PMID- 2527844 TI - Saturation mutagenesis of an Escherichia coli rRNA promoter and initial characterization of promoter variants. AB - Using oligonucleotide synthesis techniques, we generated Escherichia coli rrnB P1 (rrnB1p according to the nomenclature of B. J. Bachmann and K. B. Low [Microbiol. Rev. 44:1-56, 1980]) promoter fragments containing single base substitutions, insertions, deletions, and multiple mutations, covering the whole length of the promoter including the upstream activation sequence (UAS). The activities of 112 mutant promoters were assayed as operon fusions to lacZ in lambda lysogens. The activities of most mutants with changes in the core promoter recognition region (i.e., substitutions, insertions, or deletions in the region of the promoter spanning the -10 and -35 E. coli consensus hexamers) correlated with changes toward or away from the consensus in the hexamer sequences or in the spacing between them. However, changes at some positions in the core promoter region not normally associated with transcriptional activity in other systems also had significant effects on rrnB P1. Since rRNA promoter activity varies with cellular growth rate, changes in activity can be the result of changes in promoter strength or of alterations in the regulation of the promoter. The accompanying paper (R. R. Dickson, T. Gaal, H. A. deBoer, P. L. deHaseth, and R. L. Gourse, J. Bacteriol. 171:4862-4870, 1989) distinguishes between these two alternatives. Several mutations in the UAS resulted in two- to fivefold reductions in activity. However, two mutants with changes just upstream of the -35 hexamer in constructs containing the UAS had activities 20- to 100-fold lower than the wild-type level. This collection of mutant rRNA promoters should serve as an important resource in the characterization of the mechanisms responsible for upstream activation and growth rate-dependent regulation of rRNA transcription. PMID- 2527845 TI - Translesion synthesis is the main component of SOS repair in bacteriophage lambda DNA. AB - Agents that interfere with DNA replication in Escherichia coli induce physiological adaptations that increase the probability of survival after DNA damage and the frequency of mutants among the survivors (the SOS response). Such agents also increase the survival rate and mutation frequency of irradiated bacteriophage after infection of treated bacteria, a phenomenon known as Weigle reactivation. In UV-irradiated single-stranded DNA phage, Weigle reactivation is thought to occur via induced, error-prone replication through template lesions (translesion synthesis [P. Caillet-Fauquet, M: Defais, and M. Radman, J. Mol. Biol. 117:95-112, 1977]). Weigle reactivation occurs with higher efficiency in double-stranded DNA phages such as lambda, and we therefore asked if another process, recombination between partially replicated daughter molecules, plays a major role in this case. To distinguish between translesion synthesis and recombinational repair, we studied the early replication of UV-irradiated bacteriophage lambda in SOS-induced and uninduced bacteria. To avoid complications arising from excision of UV lesions, we used bacterial uvrA mutants, in which such excision does not occur. Our evidence suggests that translesion synthesis is the primary component of Weigle reactivation of lambda phage in the absence of excision repair. The greater efficiency in Weigle reactivation of double-stranded DNA phage could thus be attributed to some inducible excision repair unable to occur on single-stranded DNA. In addition, after irradiation, lambda phage replication seems to switch prematurely from the theta mode to the rolling circle mode. PMID- 2527846 TI - Temperature-sensitive lethal mutant of era, a G protein in Escherichia coli. AB - The era gene of Escherichia coli encodes a GTP-binding protein which has similarities to elongation factor Tu and the Saccharomyces cerevisiae RAS protein. To investigate its function, mutations affecting era were isolated. A mini-Tn10 insertion, which truncated 22 amino acids from the COOH end of Era, did not affect cell growth. By using this mini-Tn10 insert as a coselectable marker, a temperature-sensitive lethal era mutant was isolated by localized mutagenesis using P1 phage transduction. A single-base G to A change was found at position 23, causing a tyrosine residue to be substituted for the cysteine residue at position 8 (era-770), in addition to the COOH-terminal mini-Tn10 disruption. Both alterations were necessary for the temperature-sensitive phenotype. Purified Era 770 mutant protein exhibited reduced binding to GTP compared with that of the wild-type Era protein. PMID- 2527847 TI - Measurement of ATPase activity of immobilized myosin heads. AB - Myosin, heavy meromyosin, and myosin subfragment-1 (S-1) were immobilized on the inner surfaces of glass capillary tubes, the inside walls of which had been coated with nitrocellulose. The ATPase activities of the immobilized proteins were measured using radiolabeled ATP and electrophoretic separation of the reaction products. The activity was proportional to the amount of immobilized protein. Activation by actin of the ATPase was also observed. PMID- 2527848 TI - Beta-internexin is a microtubule-associated protein identical to the 70-kDa heat shock cognate protein and the clathrin uncoating ATPase. AB - We have examined the relationship of the ubiquitous 68-70-kDa cytoskeletal associated protein beta-internexin (Napolitano, E. W., Pachter, J. S., Chin, S. S. M., and Liem, R. K. H. (1985) J. Cell Biol. 101, 1323-1331) to heat-shock cognate 70 (hsc70), the major constitutive member of the mammalian heat-shock protein 70 (hsp70) family of stress proteins. We purify beta-internexin from rat brain microtubules and confirm its identity with hsc70 and the clathrin-uncoating ATPase by the following criteria: 1) The partial sequence of a cyanogen bromide derived peptide from beta-internexin matches the inferred amino acid sequence of the cDNA clone pRC62 encoding hsc70 from rat brain (O'Malley, K., Mauron, A., Barchas, J. D., and Kedes, L. (1985) Mol. Cell. Biol. 5, 3476-3483). 2) Mixing experiments followed by two-dimensional gel analyses reveal the precise co migration of beta-internexin, the clathrin-uncoating ATPase, and the in vitro translation product of cDNA clone pHSP-4 encoding rat brain hsc70. 3) beta Internexin is recognized by a monoclonal antibody reactive against the class of hsp70 proteins. 4) beta-Internexin purified from a microtubule-associated protein enriched fraction of rat brain by virtue of high affinity binding to ATP-agarose possesses clathrin cage-specific ATPase activity. PMID- 2527849 TI - Regulation of mitochondrial matrix pH and adenosine 5'-triphosphatase activity during ischemia in slow heart-rate hearts. Role of Pi/H+ symport. AB - During ischemia in so-called slow heart-rate hearts, there is a marked inhibition of the mitochondrial ATPase mediated by inhibitor protein binding to the enzyme (Rouslin, W., and Pullman, M. E. (1987) J. Mol. Cell. Cardiol. 19, 661-668). This ischemia-induced ATPase inhibition is triggered by a drop in mitochondrial matrix pH (Rouslin, W. (1987) J. Biol. Chem. 262, 3472-3476) which occurs as a result of the cell acidification which develops rapidly during the ischemic process. One effect of the ATPase inhibition is a marked slowing of the net rate of tissue ATP hydrolysis and, thus, a prolongation of cell viability during ischemia. In the present study, we demonstrate that matrix acidification in intact mitochondria from slow heart-rate hearts appears to be mediated by the Pi transporter. Pi/H+ symport appears to be the primary process which mediates matrix acidification and thus ATPase inhibition in intact slow heart-rate heart mitochondria made acidotic in vitro and, presumably, also in mitochondria in situ during the ischemic process. In contrast, intact mitochondria from a so-called fast heart-rate species, which exhibited only a low level of ischemia-induced ATPase inhibition in situ (Rouslin, W. (1987) Am. J. Physiol. 252, H622-H627), failed to exhibit a Pi- and pH-dependent mitochondrial ATPase inhibition mechanism in vitro. The Pi dependent mitochondrial ATPase inhibition mechanism reported here for slow heart rate hearts is consistent with a role for Pi as a coordinating signal promoting the conservation of cell ATP during myocardial ischemia. PMID- 2527850 TI - Complete structure of the mouse mast cell receptor for IgE (Fc epsilon RI) and surface expression of chimeric receptors (rat-mouse-human) on transfected cells. AB - The high affinity receptor for IgE (Fc epsilon RI) found on mast cells and basophils is a tetrameric complex of a single alpha subunit, a single beta subunit, and two identical gamma subunits. The genes for the three subunits of mouse Fc epsilon RI have now been cloned from the mast cell line, PT18. When compared at the DNA level, the rat and mouse subunits are similarly conserved. However, at the protein level the homology between mouse and rat alpha is surprisingly low (71% identities) especially in the cytoplasmic regions (57% identities) which are of different length (25 and 20 residues, respectively). By contrast the beta and gamma are homogeneously conserved between mouse and rat (83 and 93% identities, respectively). The consensus amino acid sequence of the alpha subunit derived from three species (rat, mouse, and human) shows that the cytoplasmic tail diverges to the same extent as the leader peptide. Conversely, the transmembrane domain of the alpha is highly conserved and contains 10 consecutive residues that are identical. Comparisons between mouse Fc epsilon RI and other mouse proteins reveal regions of high homology between the alpha subunit and Fc gamma RIIa and between the gamma subunit and the zeta chain of the T cell receptor. Cells transfected with the alpha gene express the alpha subunit on their surface very inefficiently. Efficient expression is only achieved after co-transfection of the three rodent genes or of the human alpha gene together with the rodent gamma without apparent need for beta. The subunits are completely interchangeable upon transfection so that various chimeric mouse-rat-human receptors can be expressed. PMID- 2527851 TI - Kinetic characterization of the unisite catalytic pathway of seven beta-subunit mutant F1-ATPases from Escherichia coli. AB - We have studied the kinetics of "unisite" ATP hydrolysis and synthesis in seven mutant Escherichia coli F1-ATPase enzymes. The seven mutations are distributed over a 105-residue segment of the catalytic nucleotide-binding domain in beta subunit and are: G142S, K155Q, K155E, E181Q, E192Q, M209I, and R246C. We report forward and reverse rate constants and equilibrium constants in all seven mutant enzymes for the four steps of unisite kinetics, namely (i) ATP binding/release, (ii) ATP hydrolysis/synthesis, (iii) Pi release/binding, and (iv) ADP release/binding. The seven mutant enzymes displayed a wide range of deviations from normal in both rate and equilibrium constants, with no discernible common pattern. Notably, steep reductions in Kd ATP were seen in some cases, the value of Kd Pi was high, and K2 (ATP hydrolysis/synthesis) was relatively unaffected. Significantly, when the data from the seven mutations were combined with previous data from two other E. coli F1-beta-subunit mutations (D242N, D242V), normal E. coli F1, soluble and membranous mitochondrial F1, it was found that linear free energy relationships obtained for both ATP binding/release (log k+1 versus log K1) and ADP binding/release (log k-4 versus log K-4). Two conclusions follow. 1) The seven mutations studied here cause subtle changes in interactions between the catalytic nucleotide-binding domain and substrate ATP or product ADP. 2) The mitochondrial, normal E. coli, and nine total beta-subunit mutant enzymes represent a continuum in which subtle structural differences in the catalytic site resulted in changes in binding energy; therefore insights into the nature of energy coupling during ATP hydrolysis and synthesis by F1-ATPase may be ascertained by detailed studies of this group of enzymes. PMID- 2527852 TI - Fluorescence decay of sarcoplasmic reticulum ATPase. Ligand binding and hydration effects. AB - Multifrequency phase-modulation lifetime data were acquired for sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase. The intrinsic tryptophan fluorescence decay was complex and was fitted either with three exponentials or with bimodal Lorentzian distributions of lifetimes. Ca2+ binding to the high affinity sites in the ATPase produced an increase of 11% in the center of the main component of the bimodal distribution, shifting the lifetime from 4.04 to 4.50 ns. The effects of solvent on the ATPase were studied with the enzyme dissolved in reverse micelles of detergent bis-(2-ethylhexyl)sulfosuccinate in hexane. Increasing amounts of water up to a water/bis-(2-ethylhexyl)sulfosuccinate molar ratio of 4 produced marked changes in the fluorescence emission of the protein. Comparison of data obtained for micellar solutions of tryptophan or ATPase indicated that the tryptophan residues in the protein are protected from exposure to water. Correlation of water effects on emission intensity and lifetimes suggested that interaction with solvent may result in structural changes that cause a mixture of dynamic and static quenching of ATPase intrinsic fluorescence. Evidence for an effect of hydration on the structure of the active site was obtained by measurements of the fluorescence properties of fluorescein isothiocianate-labeled ATPase in reverse micelles. PMID- 2527853 TI - ATP synthase complex from bovine heart mitochondria. Passive H+ conduction through mitochondrial coupling factor 6-depleted F0 complexes. AB - Submitochondrial particles prepared by treatment of mitochondria with ammonia and silicotungstic acid were found to be deficient in coupling factor 6 according to sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and Western blotting and had reduced ATP-Pi exchange activity. Requirement of coupling factor 6 for passive proton conductance through mitochondrial F0 was investigated by assaying the ability of depleted particles to sustain NADH-induced proton fluxes as measured by the quenching of 9-amino-6-chloro-2-methoxyacridine fluorescence. The depleted particles themselves showed negligible quenching, but the quenching increased markedly after treating the particles with oligomycin. The data show for the first time that coupling factor 6-depleted complexes have an active proton channel that can be blocked by oligomycin. Therefore, coupling factor 6 is not essential for inhibitor-sensitive proton conductance through mitochondrial F0. PMID- 2527854 TI - The vacuolar ATPase of Neurospora crassa contains an F1-like structure. AB - We have explored the structure and subunit composition of the vacuolar ATPase of Neurospora crassa by investigating the effects of nitrate. Inhibition of enzyme activity by nitrate was correlated with dissociation of a complex of peripheral polypeptides from the integral membrane part of the enzyme. Surprisingly, this nitrate-induced release of subunits occurred only when nucleotides such as ADP, ATP, or ITP were present. ATPase inhibitors that have been proposed to act at the active site prevented release of subunits. Six polypeptides, 67, 57, 51, 48, 30, and 16 kDa, were coordinately released from the vacuolar membrane. When analyzed by size exclusion chromatography or by centrifugation through glycerol gradients, the six polypeptides behaved as an aggregate of about 440,000 kDa. We also examined vacuolar membranes by electron microscopy, using negative staining. We observed a high density of "ball and stalk" structures on the membranes, similar in size but different in shape from the F0F1-ATPase of mitochondrial membranes. Treatment with nitrate removed the ball and stalk structures from vacuolar membranes but had no visible effect on mitochondrial membranes. We concluded that the overall structure of the vacuolar ATPase is similar to that of F0F1-ATPases; however, the sizes of the component polypeptides and the factors that can cause dissociation are different. PMID- 2527855 TI - Human melanoma cells express a novel integrin receptor for laminin. AB - This study sought to determine whether human melanoma cells express integrin related receptors that mediate their adhesion to laminin. We found that antibodies against the integrin beta 1 chain blocked cell attachment to laminin coated surfaces. Furthermore, immunofluorescence staining demonstrated beta 1 complexes in vinculin-positive focal adhesion plaques on the basal surface of cells attached to laminin substrates. Chromatography of detergent extracts of 125I-surface-labeled cells on laminin-Sepharose columns recovered two major laminin-binding proteins (100 and 130 kDa, reduced) that bound with high affinity to the columns and were eluted with EDTA. Both proteins were specifically immunoprecipitated from column fractions with monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies to the integrin beta 1 subunit, indicating that they form a noncovalent heterodimer complex. The alpha-like subunit is composed of a 30-kDa light chain that is joined by a disulfide bond to the 100-kDa heavy chain. This complex was not recovered from columns of fibronectin- or collagen type I- or IV Sepharose. Laminin-binding by the alpha beta 1 complex was independent of Arg-Gly Asp or Tyr-Ile-Gly-Ser-Arg-like sequences, but required the presence of divalent cations. The 100-kDa alpha-like subunit was electrophoretically and immunochemically distinct from the other known alpha subunits, alpha 1-alpha 6. The results indicate that human melanoma cells express a novel laminin-specific integrin beta 1 complex which may mediate the cells' interactions with this ligand. PMID- 2527856 TI - Lumbar facet joint syndrome. A randomised clinical trial. AB - A group of 109 patients with unilateral low back pain for over three months were randomised to receive one of three types of injection treatment: cortisone and local anaesthetic injected into two facet joints (28), the same mixture around two facet joints (39), or physiological saline into two facet joints (42). The effect of the treatment was evaluated in relation to work attendance, pain, disability and movements of the lumbar spine. Patients were examined one hour and two and six weeks after treatment and also completed a questionnaire after three months. A significant improvement was observed in work attendance, pain and disability scores, but this was independent of the treatment given and movements of the lumbar spine were not improved. Of the 70 patients with initial pain relief after injection, 36% reported persisting benefit at the three month follow up, independent of the mode of treatment given. We conclude that facet joint injection is a non-specific method of treatment and the good results depend on a tendency to spontaneous regression and to the psychosocial aspects of back pain. PMID- 2527857 TI - Characterization of intestinal microvillar membrane disks: detergent-resistant membrane sheets enriched in associated brush border myosin I (110K-calmodulin). AB - The actin bundle within each microvillus of the intestinal brush border (BB) is tethered laterally to the membrane by bridges composed of BB myosin I. Avian BB myosin I, formerly termed 110K-calmodulin, consists of a heavy chain with an apparent Mr of 110 kD and three to four molecules of calmodulin "light chains." Recent studies have shown that this complex shares many properties with myosin including mechanochemical activity. In this report, the isolation and characterization of a membrane fraction enriched in bound BB myosin I is described. This membrane fraction, termed microvillar membrane disks, was purified from ATP extracts of nonionic detergent-treated microvilli prepared from avian intestinal BBs. Ultrastructural analysis revealed that these membranes are flat, disk-shaped sheets with protrusions which are identical in morphology to purified BB myosin I. The disks exhibit actin-activated Mg-ATPase activity and bind and cross-link actin filaments in an ATP-dependent fashion. The mechanochemical activity of the membrane disks was assessed using the Nitella bead movement assay (Sheetz, M. P., and J. A. Spudich. 1983. Nature [Lond.]. 303:31-35). These preparations were shown to be free of significant contamination by conventional BB myosin. Latex beads coated with microvillar membrane disks move in a myosin-like fashion along Nitella actin cables at rates of 12-60 nm/s (average rate of 33 nm/s); unlike purified BB myosin I, the movement of membrane disk-coated beads was most reproducibly observed in buffers containing low Ca2+. PMID- 2527858 TI - Identification and characterization of the T lymphocyte adhesion receptor for an alternative cell attachment domain (CS-1) in plasma fibronectin. AB - Using mAb technology (Wayner, E. A., W. G. Carter, R. Piotrowicz, and T. J. Kunicki. 1988. J. Cell Biol. 107:1881-1891), we have identified a new fibronectin receptor that is identical to the integrin receptor alpha 4 beta 1. mAbs P3E3, P4C2, and P4G9 recognized epitopes on the alpha 4 subunit and completely inhibited the adhesion of peripheral blood and cultured T lymphocytes to a 38-kD tryptic fragment of plasma fibronectin containing the carboxy-terminal Heparin II domain and part of the type III connecting segment (IIICS). The ligand in IIICS for alpha 4 beta 1 was the CS-1 region previously defined as an adhesion site for melanoma cells. The functionally defined mAbs to alpha 4 partially inhibited T lymphocyte adhesion to intact plasma fibronectin and had no effect on their attachment to an 80-kD tryptic fragment containing the RGD (arg-gly-asp) adhesion sequence. mAbs (P1D6 and P1F8) to the previously described fibronectin receptor, alpha 5 beta 1, completely inhibited T lymphocyte adhesion to the 80-kD fragment but had no effect on their attachment to the 38-kD fragment or to CS-1. Both alpha 4 beta 1 and alpha 5 beta 1 localized to focal adhesions when fibroblasts that express these receptors were grown on fibronectin-coated surfaces. These findings demonstrated a specific interaction of both receptors with fibronectin at focal contacts. In conclusion, these findings show clearly that cultured T lymphocytes use two independent receptors during attachment to fibronectin and that (a) alpha 5 beta 1 is the receptor for the RGD containing cell adhesion domain, and (b) alpha 4 beta 1 is the receptor for a carboxy-terminal cell adhesion region containing the Heparin II and IIICS domains. Furthermore, these data also show that T lymphocytes express a clear preference for a region of molecular heterogeneity in IIICS (CS-1) generated by alternative splicing of fibronectin pre-mRNA and that alpha 4 beta 1 is the receptor for this adhesion site. PMID- 2527860 TI - T-helper heterogeneity and immune response patterns. AB - We have long known that helper T cells regulate antibody-dependent humoral responses; we are now beginning to understand how they do so. In murine systems, there are two TH subsets: One secretes IL-2 and gamma-interferon, the other IL-4 and IL-5. The helper-subset-specific cytokines affect B cells, and therefore the regulation of antibody secretion, in profoundly different ways. PMID- 2527859 TI - In situ hybridization reveals temporal and spatial changes in cellular expression of mRNA for a laminin receptor, laminin, and basement membrane (type IV) collagen in the developing kidney. AB - The appearance of extracellular matrix molecules and their receptors represent key events in the differentiation of cells of the kidney. Steady-state mRNA levels for a laminin receptor, the laminin B1, B2, and A chains, and the alpha 1 chain of collagen IV (alpha 1[IV]), were examined in mouse kidneys at 16 d gestation and birth, when cell differentiation is active, and 1-3 wk after birth when this activity has subsided. Northern analysis revealed that mRNA expression of laminin receptor precedes the alpha 1(IV) and laminin B chains whereas laminin A chain mRNA expression was very low. In situ hybridization reflected this pattern and revealed the cells responsible for expression. At 16 d gestation, laminin receptor mRNA was elevated in cells of newly forming glomeruli and proximal and distal tubules of the nephrogenic zone located in the kidney cortex. These cells also expressed mRNA for alpha 1(IV) and laminin chains. At birth, mRNA expression of receptor and all chains remained high in glomeruli but was reduced in proximal and distal tubules. At 1 wk after birth, expression was located in the medulla over collecting ducts and loops of Henle. Little expression was detectable by 3 wk. These results suggest that cellular expression of steady-state mRNA for laminin receptor, laminin, and collagen IV is temporally linked, with laminin receptor expression proceeding first and thereafter subsiding. PMID- 2527861 TI - Diagnosis and management of lumbar disk disease. AB - Management of the patient with low back pain need not be particularly confusing, expensive, or invasive. A systematic approach to categorizing this ubiquitous symptom etiologically, followed by appropriate choice of diagnostic imaging techniques and an individualized treatment program, will heighten cost effectiveness and sharply reduce the demand for surgical intervention. PMID- 2527862 TI - Regulation of IgE biosynthesis. AB - A biologic cell product that in an experimental system completely and and specifically suppresses the IgE response! This is one of the intriguing findings that give rise to optimism that the growing understanding of mechanisms that regulate normal IgE responses will, in the not-too-distant future, provide rational and effective therapy for the prevention and management of atopic diseases. PMID- 2527863 TI - When should angiography follow myocardial infarction? AB - Both emergency and elective angiography are discussed, with emphasis on their association with the closely linked interventions intravenous thrombolysis and percutaneous transluminal angioplasty. PMID- 2527864 TI - Psychometric scatter in retarded, autistic preschoolers as measured by the Cattell. AB - To determine whether psychometric scatter is characteristic of the developmental profile of young autistic children, the performance of 38 autistic children, as measured by the Cattell, was compared with the performance of MA matched samples of normal, Down's Syndrome and non-Down's Syndrome children with mental retardation. Results indicated significantly more psychometric scatter in the autistic group than in the other groups. Similarly, 66% of the autistic children vs 13, 26 and 32% of the normal, Down's and non-Down's samples, respectively, had significant scatter. Further analyses revealed that autistic children showed consistent relative strength in non-language and weakness in language. PMID- 2527865 TI - Separation of synthetic cardiodilatin/atrial natriuretic factor and related peptides by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. PMID- 2527866 TI - Functional immunoregulatory T-cell abnormalities in cystic fibrosis patients. AB - The role of B cells and regulatory T cells in the reduced in vitro IgG synthesis of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients was studied. Intact proportion, proliferation, and differentiation of B cells and reduced suppressor and helper T-cell function were found. To explore the T-cell defects further, CF sera or supernatant derived from Pseudomonas aeruginosa cultures (PA supernatant) was added to the relevant T helper- and suppressor-cell assays. Both CF sera derived from PA-positive patients and PA supernatant interfered with the appearance of interleukin 2 (IL 2) receptors and with the functional enhancement caused by exogenously added IL 2. PA-negative CF patients, however, also had functional T-cell defects and inhibitory sera, but these sera did not affect IL-2 pathways. Thus different serum factors and intrinsic T-cell defects in CF patients are suggested. PMID- 2527867 TI - Restriction enzyme analysis of plasmid DNA and bacteriophage typing of paired Staphylococcus aureus blood culture isolates. AB - We compared restriction enzyme analysis of plasmid (REAP) DNA profiling with bacteriophage typing for determination of similarities and differences among 50 pairs of Staphylococcus aureus blood isolates from patients with multiple positive blood cultures. Isolates from 17 pairs did not have detectable plasmids. Isolates from 33 pairs had plasmids classified into 17 distinct REAP DNA profiles. Paired isolates from 31 of these episodes were identical to one another. By phage typing, 35 pairs had strong lytic reactions to a phage(s), 9 pairs lacked strong reactions, and 6 pairs consisted of a strongly reactive isolate and an isolate with no strong reaction to a phage. When consolidated into 11 general phage groups, pairs from 44 of the 50 episodes were in the same general group. REAP DNA profiles were highly reproducible (99%), whereas phage typing was not. REAP DNA profiling is superior to phage typing as a technique for determining similarities and differences among S. aureus blood isolates. PMID- 2527868 TI - Histochemistry and isomyosins of tail musculature in Xenopus. AB - The main bulk of the larval tail in Xenopus laevis is composed of thick muscle fibres which are succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) negative and show strong positive ATPase activity only at alkaline preincubation (pH 10.4). The thin muscle fibres (which cover the surface of the myotomes and extend to the tail tip) show positive SDH activity as well as strong positive ATPase activity after both alkaline and acid preincubations (pH 10.4, 4.5, 4.4, and 4.3). The pattern of myosin isoenzymes does not change in the tail muscle in the course of development of Xenopus: the same three bands of larval isomyosins were found in all the examined developmental stages: 40, 47, 50 and 56. However, the larval bands were distinct from three bands of myosin isoforms in the musculus longissimus dorsi (MLD) and musculus gastrocnemius (MG) of the metamorphosed Xenopus. PMID- 2527869 TI - Functional aspects of calcium transport in sarcoplasmic reticulum vesicles derived from frog skeletal muscle treated with saponin. AB - To study the physiological aspects of the excitation-contraction cycle, saponin (10-100 micrograms ml-1) was used as a skinning agent on muscle and sarcotubular vesicles derived from fast muscles (sartorius and tibialis anterior) of Rana esculenta. The vesicles showed similar Ca2+-ATPase activity and similar protein profiles carried out by SDS-PAGE. Calcium transport in untreated vesicles and those treated with different concentrations of saponin seemed to have the same quantitative and qualitative parameters if the saponin was used in a range between 10 and 50 micrograms ml-1. Our results confirm that saponin may be considered to be a valid skinning agent for the external membranes of fast skeletal muscles. PMID- 2527870 TI - Child life services and persons with mental retardation. AB - We admitted an adult with mental retardation and an eating disorder to a pediatric inpatient unit. Child life services were a core feature in the assessment and treatment of the patient. The role of child life services in the care of persons with mental retardation should be expanded. PMID- 2527871 TI - Public laws and handicapped children. PMID- 2527872 TI - A comparison of clinically and empirically derived MMPI groupings in low back pain patients. AB - Two methods of grouping MMPI scales were employed with 271 patients who were attending a Back Clinic at a university hospital. One method involved clinically derived decision rules, while the other utilized a multivariate clustering procedure. Five subgroups of patients were identified with each method. Both procedures showed subgroup differences in terms of pretreatment pain intensity, activity limitations, McGill affective scores, and physician ratings of degree of functional impairment; the elevated subgroups showed more dysfunction. Follow-up comparisons revealed that, regardless of the classification procedure used, the elevated subgroups showed poorer response to treatment. Only the clinically derived groupings had significant differences in chronicity of pain and total scores on the McGill Pain Questionnaire. On the other hand, only the statistically based system showed significant differences on age and marital status. Furthermore, only the statistical system identified subgroups of male patients that predicted followup pain intensity decreases in a manner that indicated clinical usefulness. PMID- 2527873 TI - Occupational health problems and adverse patient reactions in periodontics. AB - The purpose of the present survey was to assess the nature and extent of adverse reactions to materials and procedures among personnel in periodontal practice and their patients. A questionnaire was mailed to practicing members of the Swedish Society of Periodontists. A total of 85, about 65%, responded together with 44 dental hygienists and 64 chairside assistants. 42% had experienced adverse reactions. The majority of complaints were related to dermatoses of the hands and fingers. The remainder were respiratory or eye reactions. A specifical problem characteristically involving the hygienists, was musculoskeletal stress reactions. Many of the dermatoses were of moderate severity, and were associated with seasonal, air-ventilation problems or were unexplained. The most severe reactions were reported by atopic persons. The reactions were attributed to hand washing procedures, the use of latex gloves and other disposable personal equipment such as face masks and caps. Reactions attributed to dental materials or local anaesthetics, characteristic of other reports from general dental practice, were absent. The survey indicated that personnel in periodontal practice have problems similar to many other categories of health personnel. Patient reactions were encountered at a frequency of 1 every other year per periodontist. The majority were intraoral reactions to chlorhexidine mouthrinses. Other patient reactions were associated with exposure to latex gloves, eugenol containing periodontal packs, methacrylates and nickel-containing instruments. 2 instances of anaphylactoid reactions to latex gloves were encountered. PMID- 2527874 TI - X-linked dominant Conradi-Hunermann syndrome presenting as congenital erythroderma. AB - A family with Conradi-Hunermann syndrome was identified after a scaly, erythrodermic neonate was seen. Although examination of the female infant yielded no specific findings suggestive of the syndrome, her mother and maternal great grandmother had features that allowed the diagnosis to be made. Only after 5 months did the streaky hyperkeratotic pattern characteristic of the syndrome develop in the child. Family members bore other stigmata, including patchy cicatricial alopecia, coarse hair, follicular atrophoderma, frontal bossing, cataracts, short stature, and short proximal limbs. The pattern of inheritance in this family is compatible with that of an X-linked dominant genodermatosis with variable expression. Histopathologic findings from skin biopsy specimens were psoriasiform rather than ichthyotic. Decreased peroxisomal enzyme activity was discovered on fibroblast cultures, linking this syndrome with other peroxisomal disorders. Treatment with oral bezafibrate and clofibrate, which are potential inducers of hepatic peroxisomes, did not result in clinical improvement. It is recommended that usage of the term chondrodysplasia punctata be restricted to the descriptive radiologic finding of stippled calcifications and that Conradi Hunermann syndrome refer only to the disease described herein, which is transmitted as an X-linked dominant trait. PMID- 2527875 TI - Successful treatment of the acne of Apert syndrome with isotretinoin. PMID- 2527876 TI - Acne necroticans (varioliformis) versus Propionibacterium acnes folliculitis. PMID- 2527877 TI - Evolving demographic patterns and potential for pediatric dental practice. AB - The Bureau of the Census has reported changes in the projected number of children. These changes, as well as the decreases in the number of dentists and a changing awareness of the needed care for children are considered in terms of the potential for pediatric dental practice. Evolving demographic patterns are an important factor in practice location; ten years after the late 1970s, conditions and forecasts now have become far more favorable for the profession. PMID- 2527878 TI - Changing number and distribution of pediatric dentists. AB - A review is provided of the 1982 and 1987 ADA Survey of Distribution of Dentists with regard to the changing number and distribution of pediatric dentists. A pediatric dental manpower equilibrium is examined on a state-by-state basis, comparing changes between 1982 and 1987 in this report. The general slowing down in the increasing numbers of pediatric dentists and an essentially constant pediatric-dentist-to-population ratio should continue in the future. PMID- 2527879 TI - Papillon-Lefevre syndrome: report of two brothers. AB - Papillon-Lefevre syndrome was observed in two boys in the same family, and the topic of this report, the second to appear in the Greek dental literature. Both patients presented with hyperkeratosis of the palms and soles and severe periodontal destruction; the latter was more prominent in the younger boy. The children will lose their teeth before reaching maturity. PMID- 2527880 TI - Legal and ethical aspects of the AIDS crisis. PMID- 2527881 TI - AIDS-related changes in dental education. PMID- 2527882 TI - AIDS-related changes in dental practice. PMID- 2527883 TI - The impact of AIDS on dental practice: update 1989. PMID- 2527884 TI - Segmental intelligibility of synthetic speech produced by rule. AB - This paper reports the results of an investigation that employed the modified rhyme test (MRT) to measure the segmental intelligibility of synthetic speech generated automatically by rule. Synthetic speech produced by ten text-to-speech systems was studied and compared to natural speech. A variation of the standard MRT was also used to study the effects of response set size on perceptual confusions. Results indicated that the segmental intelligibility scores formed a continuum. Several systems displayed very high levels of performance that were close to or equal to scores obtained with natural speech; other systems displayed substantially worse performance compared to natural speech. The overall performance of the best system, DECtalk--Paul, was equivalent to the data obtained with natural speech for consonants in syllable-initial position. The findings from this study are discussed in terms of the use of a set of standardized procedures for measuring intelligibility of synthetic speech under controlled laboratory conditions. Recent work investigating the perception of synthetic speech under more severe conditions in which greater demands are made on the listener's processing resources is also considered. The wide range of intelligibility scores obtained in the present study demonstrates important differences in perception and suggests that not all synthetic speech is perceptually equivalent to the listener. PMID- 2527885 TI - Cognitive impairments in depression. AB - Depressed patients perform poorly on memory tests. This may reflect a failure to employ encoding strategies that facilitate recall or a generalized inability to allocate cognitive effort to more difficult tasks. Inpatients with major depression or personality disorders and age- and IQ-matched normal controls were administered an automatic frequency of occurrence test and verbal paired associated recall and recognition memory tests. There was no difference in frequency judgments among the subject groups. Both depressed and personality disordered groups recalled and recognized fewer words than normal subjects, with the depressed subjects tending to recall and recognize the fewest words. There was a strong effect of task difficulty on memory performance but this effect was consistent across subject groups. These findings suggest that the poorer performance of depressed patients on memory tests reflect basic memory impairments rather than a general inability to allocate cognitive effort to more demanding tasks. However, these impairments may not be specific to depression but may reflect general effects of psychopathology on memory. PMID- 2527886 TI - Family history in recurrent depression. AB - The authors report morbid risks found for depression, alcoholism, and bipolar disorder in first-degree relatives of 179 probands with recurrent depression. Comparisons were made for relatives' gender, probands' gender, and probands' age at onset. Results showed overall morbid risks of 20.7% for non-bipolar depression, 15.4% for alcoholism, and 1.1% for bipolar disorder. Female relatives were found to be at greater risk for depression than males, while the reverse was true for alcoholism. Sex of proband had no effect. Risk to relatives of early onset probands was significantly elevated compared to late-onset probands. Various cutoffs for ages at onset were examined, and the effect became more marked as the cutoff age was decreased to 20. PMID- 2527887 TI - Immune cell parameters in severely depressed patients: negative findings. AB - Cross-sectional population studies reported decreased mitogen-induced lymphocyte responsiveness in severely depressed patients. This immunologic impairment, indicative of T- and/or B-cell dysfunction, was related to disturbances in the dexamethasone suppression test (DST) and to age effects. Glucocorticoid overdrive, a hallmark for severe depression, exerts immunosuppressive effects through the impact on neutrophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes and natural killer cells (NKC). This paper has analyzed the relation of peripheral blood immune parameters to severe depression, DST results and age. The population consisted of 37 inpatients categorized according to DSM-III as minor depression (300.40, 309.00), simple major depression (296.X2) or major depression with melancholia and/or with psychotic features (296.X3, 296.X4). The number of leukocytes, neutrophils, lymphocytes and monocytes was counted. T-cell (total T-cell, T helper, T-suppressor, HLA-DR), B-cell (LN1 and immunoglobulin (Ig) receptors), monocytes (M1 and M3 membrane antigens) and NKC activity were identified by phenotype using monoclonal antibodies. No differences were detected between the depressive subgroups for any of the parameters examined. There were no relationships between these immune variables and the severity of illness, DST results or age. PMID- 2527888 TI - Ethological predictors of amitriptyline response in depressed outpatients. AB - Non-verbal behaviour of 22 unipolar, non-delusional depressed outpatients was video-recorded during psychiatric interview to determine whether response to tricyclic treatment (50-100 mg/day of amitriptyline for 5 consecutive weeks) could be predicted on the basis of the ethological profile at baseline. At the end of the study, patients were divided into two treatment outcome groups on the basis of their final Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) scores. At baseline, responders (n = 14, HDRS score less than or equal to 10) and non-responders (n = 8, HDRS score greater than 10) did not differ with respect to sex, age, education, DSM-III diagnosis, and HDRS score. In contrast, ethological profiles of the two treatment outcome groups at baseline were different, with non responders showing significantly more assertive and affiliative behaviours. The results are discussed in the light of previous studies which have identified subgroups of depressive patients with different responsiveness to tricyclic treatment. PMID- 2527889 TI - Psychosocial stress and minor psychiatric morbidity: a community study in Taiwan. AB - The relationship between acute life events, chronic psychosocial stressors, sociodemographic variables, and minor psychiatric morbidity (MPM) was investigated in a community sample (n = 489) in Taiwan. A higher risk of MPM was found among women with chronic stressors and respondents with both events and stressors. There was no sex difference over the impact of events on such morbidity. The relative odds of MPM for respondents exposed to event(s) was found to be 8.9. PMID- 2527890 TI - Reliability of data on haematotoxicity of antidepressants. A retrospective assessment of haematological monitoring in clinical studies on tricyclics. AB - At the present time, there is some concern over the haematological adverse effects of antidepressants. The present paper examines retrospectively 314 clinical trials in depression which were published in English or French between 1958 and 1986 and which used at least one of the following tricyclics: amitriptyline, clomipramine, imipramine. Two decision tables assess the depth of detail with which haematological monitoring and safety were described by the authors of each study. The results indicate that more than 98% of the papers under scrutiny either provide no information on the subject or do so in a manner which is entirely subjective. Thus, it seems that current knowledge of haematotoxicity of antidepressants is almost entirely the result of spontaneous reports from doctors, with its well-known drawbacks. PMID- 2527891 TI - Relapse of depressed patients after effective continuation therapy. AB - Forty-one elderly depressed patients who had responded to either nortriptyline or phenelzine were given continuation treatment for approximately 4 months (mean = 16.5 weeks) after which 19 were switched under double-blind conditions to placebo. At the end of 8 weeks, three (15.8%) of the placebo patients had relapsed and three (13.6%) of the patients kept on antidepressants had relapsed. Patients who had more prior episodes of depression had a greater risk of relapsing. The implications of these findings for continuation pharmacologic treatment in the elderly depressed are discussed. PMID- 2527892 TI - Depression among patients with a chief complaint of chronic fatigue. AB - The prevalence of mood disorders among patients with chronic fatigue was examined in a group of 100 adults who had experienced fatigue symptoms for an average of 13 years. Patients received a comprehensive history, physical and laboratory evaluation and completed the National Institute of Mental Health Diagnostic Interview Schedule and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Among 44 patients with depressive illness, the onset of their first depressive episode was strongly associated with and preceded the onset of chronic fatigue. The BDI, fatigue history, demographic factors, and findings from the physical examination and laboratory had only modest success in discriminating those patients with depressive illness from other patients. We conclude that depressive illness is an important precursor of chronic fatigue. PMID- 2527893 TI - Comparison of major depressive patients with a predominantly sad versus anxious mood. AB - One hundred and seventy-seven patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) experienced a mood disturbance that could be characterized as predominantly sad (55%), anxious (31%) or mixed (14%). Patients that had a predominantly sad mood were more likely to be hypersomnic, anhedonic, younger and seen in an outpatient setting. Predominantly anxious MDD patients were more likely to have been hospitalized, agitated, psychotic, incapacitated, insomnic, and to have had higher post-dexamethasone cortisol levels. PMID- 2527894 TI - Depression in late life: age of onset as marker of a subtype. AB - Late-onset depression may be pathogenetically and prognostically distinct from early-onset, recurrent affective disorder. The authors reviewed records of 94 consecutively admitted unipolar major depressives over the age of 60 years, divided subjects into groups based on their age of onset, and examined demographic and clinical features. Late-onset elderly depressives had a lower incidence of family history of affective illness, longer hospital stay, and more residual symptoms at discharge. However, there was no demonstrable relationship between age of onset and presence of psychosis, melancholia, medical illness, symptom severity at admission, or indicators of neuropathology. Although late onset elderly depressives did less well than those with early-onset illness, the data do not support the notion of late-onset depression as a distinct pathological process. PMID- 2527895 TI - Pharmacotherapy of depressive disorders. A consensus statement. WHO Mental Health Collaborating Centres. PMID- 2527896 TI - Treatment of adolescents with major depression: implications of the DST and the melancholic clinical subtype. AB - Of 38 adolescents hospitalized with major depression, 47% of those receiving psychosocial treatment alone responded. Of the non-responders then treated with combined tricyclic antidepressants and psychosocial treatment, 92% responded. The melancholic subtype and dexamethasone suppression test non-suppression were associated with failure to respond to psychosocial treatment alone. Implications for controlled studies are discussed. PMID- 2527897 TI - Documenting safe treatment of the medical-risk patient. AB - An easily mastered safe treatment documentation system is presented. The routine consists of two parts, a comprehensive yet manageable medical history and a treatment modification record. Millions of medically compromised patients may now receive comprehensive care in safety. PMID- 2527898 TI - Assessment of ST segment depression in patients with cardiac disease after local anesthesia. AB - This study found that dental treatment with 2% lidocaine with 1:100,000 epinephrine did not provoke myocardial ischemia, as assessed by greater than or equal to 1 mm of ST segment depression. Although in some cases systolic and diastolic blood pressure and rate pressure product increased slightly after local anesthetic administration, these changes were not statistically significant. Because these patients were medically supervised and compliant with cardiac therapy, this study suggests that such patients are not at great risk while receiving local anesthesia with 1:100,000 epinephrine for routine dental care. PMID- 2527899 TI - Implications of the changing medical profile of a dental school patient population. AB - Representative adult patient populations seeking treatment at a dental school in 1976 and 1986 were analyzed for the prevalence and the characteristics of medical conditions. Patients' records (N = 3,000) were randomly selected from the examination clinics and reviewed for the presence and types of compromising medical conditions. The results indicated a significant increase in the percentage of dental patients who had medical conditions in 1986 as compared with 1976 (P less than .001), as well as significant changes in the types of medical conditions present. These data indicate an increase in the number of patients with medical problems in the general dental school patient population. PMID- 2527900 TI - The reliability of the medical history in the identification of patients at risk for infective endocarditis. AB - This study sought to assess the reliability of the cardiac history provided by patients. The results of the interviews and cardiologic evaluations found no significant correlation between those patients identified by their medical history as having a murmur, and those who were actually found to have a pathological condition warranting prophylactic therapy. PMID- 2527901 TI - Plasma atrial natriuretic factor in essential hypertension: relation to cardiac size, function and systemic hemodynamics. AB - To evaluate determinants of elevated plasma atrial natriuretic factor levels in patients with hypertension, immunoreactive plasma atrial natriuretic factor in 54 normal subjects and 40 untreated hypertensive patients was compared with echocardiographic measurements of cardiac size, function and systemic hemodynamics. In normal subjects, plasma atrial natriuretic factor was related to age, systolic blood pressure and left atrial and ventricular chamber sizes, but only age and ventricular size were independent predictors. In untreated hypertensive patients, atrial natriuretic factor was directly related to age, atrial size, systolic pressure, peripheral resistance and ventricular systolic performance; age, atrial size and peripheral resistance were independent predictors. Eight patients with elevated atrial natriuretic factor values (greater than 25 fmol/ml) were significantly (p less than 0.01) older and had greater atrial and ventricular size and higher systolic pressure and function than normal subjects or patients with normal natriuretic factor levels. Plasma atrial natriuretic factor was inversely related to peak diastolic filling rate in normal subjects (r = -0.59; p less than 0.001), whereas it was positively related to the proportional contribution of atrial systole to left ventricular filling in hypertensive patients (r = 0.77; p less than 0.001). These findings suggest that in normal subjects, impairment of ventricular relaxation with age may contribute to atrial natriuretic factor secretion by increasing left atrial afterload; the correlation with left ventricular size may reflect physiologic fluctuations in plasma volume. In patients with uncomplicated hypertension, left atrial enlargement and consequent stronger atrial contraction contributed to increased atrial natriuretic factor release, whereas no independent relation existed with left ventricular hypertrophy or systolic function. Because ventricular relaxation was normal and ventricular size and systolic performance were increased in hypertensive patients with high atrial natriuretic factor levels, the observed increase in left atrial size and atrial contribution to ventricular filling might reflect a primary increase in venous return in this subset of hypertensive patients. PMID- 2527902 TI - Relation between preoperative left ventricular muscle mass and outcome of the Fontan procedure in patients with tricuspid atresia. AB - The relation between preoperative left ventricular muscle mass and clinical outcome of the Fontan procedure was evaluated retrospectively in 22 patients with tricuspid atresia who were selected for this physiologic surgical correction by conventional hemodynamic criteria. Patients were divided into two groups: group A (excellent or good outcome) and group B (poor outcome or death) based on the clinical course assessed up to 9.5 years postoperatively. Thirteen of 22 group A patients did not have prolonged, clinically significant, systemic venous hypertension and were not on long-term diuretic drug therapy. Nine of 22 group B patients either had clinically significant systemic venous hypertension, required long-term diuretic drug therapy or died (3 patients). Age at surgery, pulmonary arteriolar resistance, left ventricular ejection fraction, end-diastolic volume, end-diastolic pressure, systemic oxygen saturation and pulmonary to systemic blood flow ratio (Qp/Qs) were not statistically different between the two groups. Left ventricular muscle mass, both in group A patients (92 +/- 31 g/m2) and in group B patients (146 +/- 61 g/m2), was greater than the normal mean value (p less than 0.01 and p less than 0.001, respectively). Left ventricular muscle mass in group B was significantly greater than in group A (p less than 0.01). Furthermore, left ventricular muscle mass/end-diastolic volume (mass/volume) ratio, reflecting the extent of left ventricular hypertrophy relative to volume overload, was significantly greater in group B (1.1 +/- 0.28) than in group A (0.84 +/- 0.21) (p less than 0.05).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527903 TI - Percutaneous excimer laser angioplasty of aortocoronary saphenous vein grafts. AB - Percutaneous coronary excimer laser angioplasty was successfully performed in two patients. An 85 year old woman with a 99% stenosis in a vein graft to a posterior descending artery had the stenosis reduced to 30% with laser angioplasty. Subsequent balloon angioplasty reduced the stenosis further to 20%. A second patient, a man aged 50 years, had multiple previous balloon angioplasties and stent implantation with two subsequent percutaneous atherectomies. Laser angioplasty of the vein graft to the obtuse marginal branch reduced the first of three sequential lesions from 60% to 40%, the second lesion from 90% to none and the third from 60% to 20% without the need for balloon angioplasty. Both procedures were well tolerated without chest pain, burning, vascular perforation or thrombus formation. These cases demonstrate the feasibility of safely performing percutaneous coronary excimer laser angioplasty. Additional studies are indicated to determine the clinical role and potential benefits of this procedure in relation to established procedures and other experimental devices. PMID- 2527904 TI - Myocardial metabolism of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and glucose uptake. PMID- 2527905 TI - Limitations of interpretation of age-related changes in hormone levels: illustration by effects of thyroid hormones on cardiac and skeletal muscle. AB - Studies on age-related changes in hormone secretion or circulation are frequently interpreted to indicate changes in the functions of target tissues for that hormone. Such interpretations are not necessarily correct. For instance, the levels of thyroid hormone change modestly with age, and responses to this change differ dramatically in cardiac and skeletal muscles. There is a substantial change in myosin isozyme content of the heart, but little or no change in skeletal muscle fiber type distribution in specific pathogen free (SPF) barrier protected rats. These changes (or lack of them) are reflected in functional differences (or lack of them) in the target tissues. The most obvious difference between the recent studies showing no differences with age in skeletal muscle fiber distribution and previous reports of general decreases with age in content of fast fibers is in animal housing conditions; all of the animals showing an age related change had been housed in conventional colonies, while those exhibiting little or no change were in SPF barrier-protected facilities. PMID- 2527906 TI - Skeletal muscle fiber types and myosin ATPase activity do not change with age or growth hormone administration. AB - Fischer 344 rats at various ages throughout the life span have been treated with growth hormone, clonidine, and insulin-like growth factor-I to restore circulating somatomedin levels in old animals to levels found in younger rats. The injections were intended to reverse (2-week treatments) or prevent (6-month treatments) deleterious effects of aging on skeletal muscle--specifically the loss of fast fibers during the latter part of the life span. However, measurements of myosin ATPase (and subsequent histochemical fiber type determinations) revealed that the previously reported age-related decrease in ATPase activities and fast fiber content did not occur in barrier-protected specific pathogen free rats or mice. None of the treatments used had a significant effect on the ATPase activity or fiber composition of soleus, extensor digitorum longus, or diaphragm muscles, although parallel determinations in collaborating laboratories verified that the hormones had major effects in other systems. Previously reported decreases with age in ATPase activity of heart muscle were confirmed in our experiments, and these decreases were shown to reflect a change in myosin isozyme composition of the hearts, both at the protein and the mRNA levels of gene expression. PMID- 2527907 TI - New uses for old drugs. AB - Existing therapies are often tried when new diseases are discovered or new manifestations of known organisms are recognized. This article reviews the successful application of older commonly used antibiotics to several representative "new" or "newly recognized" illnesses. Examples include new uses for the antistaphylococcal agents, penicillin, the tetracyclines, erythromycin, vancomycin, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, pyrazinamide, metronidazole, clindamycin, and others. PMID- 2527908 TI - Reduction volume dependence of immunoreactive atrial natriuretic peptide secretion in isolated perfused rabbit atria. AB - A new technique to permit gradual changes in atrial distension has been developed in an isolated perfused rabbit atrium preparation. Graded volume reduction in the atrium was induced by changing the elevation of the outflow catheter tip. Pressure reduction from 6 cm H2O atrial distension resulted in a decrease in atrial distension volume. Atrial distension by 6 cmH2O did not change the release of immunoreactive atrial natriuretic peptide (irANP). The graded reduction in atrial distension from 0.11 +/- 0.03 (1.5 cm H2O) to 1.36 +/- 0.19 microliters/mg wet weight (6.0 cm H2O) resulted in 1.7 (6.76 +/- 2.05 versus 3.83 +/- 1.18 pg/mg per min, n = 9, P less than 0.025) to 40.1-fold (77.66 +/- 17.82 versus 3.0 +/- 1.14 pg/mg per min, n = 11, P less than 0.025) increases in irANP release. IrANP release in response to the reduction of atrial distension was volume dependent. The relation of percentage increase in irANP release with the percentage reduction of atrial distension was exponential. The data suggest that the atrial muscle shortening, but not stretch per se, may be a potent direct stimulus for the regulation of irANP secretion. PMID- 2527909 TI - Inhibition of cutaneous contact hypersensitivity by calcium transport inhibitors lanthanum and diltiazem. AB - Epidermal Langerhans cells (ELC) are bone marrow-derived immune cells that are important in allergic contact dermatitis. We examined the influence of calcium transport inhibitors, lanthanum and diltiazem hydrochloride, on allergic contact dermatitis induced by 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (DNCB) in BALB/c mice. Systemic lanthanum at a dose of 0.08 mg/kg and topical lanthanum (50 microliters of 10% solution) were given 5 d before DNCB sensitization. Systemic diltiazem (30 mg/kg per dy) was given for 3 d during sensitization with DNCB. In all animals, challenge with topical DNCB to the ear skin was performed 5 d after sensitization and ear swelling was measured. Twenty four hours post-DNCB challenge, animals receiving systemic lanthanum demonstrated a 56% decrease in contact hypersensitivity (ear swelling) compared with non-lanthanum-treated animals (0.08 +/- 0.03 mm vs 0.18 mm +/- 0.02 mm, p less than 0.01). Topical lanthanum produced a 58% decrease in contact hypersensitivity (0.20 +/- 0.02 mm vs 0.41 +/- 0.03 mm, p less than 0.01). The DNCB-induced ear swelling also resolved more quickly in animals treated with lanthanum. Systemic diltiazem produced a 67% decrease in ear swelling (0.05 +/- 0.01 mm vs 0.15 +/- 0.02 mm, p less than 0.001). A decrease in epidermal Langerhans cell density of 13 to 14% was produced by systemic lanthanum, detected by both ATPase staining and Ia staining, respectively (p less than 0.05). Approximately 20% of the Langerhans cells were morphologically abnormal, having become "rounded," and lacking normal dendritic processes. From these results, we infer that calcium transport across the cell membrane of ELC may be important in the regulation of their function. Lanthanides and other calcium-channel blockers may be useful pharmacologic agents to probe these phenomena. PMID- 2527910 TI - Effect of ultraviolet irradiation on the activity of rat skin prostaglandin D synthetase. AB - The effect of ultraviolet light-B (UVB) irradiation on the activity of prostaglandin (PG) D synthetase was investigated in adult rat skin. Rats were irradiated with 500 mJ/cm2 of UVB, and PGD synthetase activity was determined in 100,000 g supernatant of the homogenate of rat skin in the presence of glutathione (GSH) before and 3, 6, 12, and 24 h after irradiation. The PGD synthetase activity was decreased time dependently, and within 24 h after UVB irradiation it had dropped to 50% of the control level before irradiation. In contrast, the synthesizing activities of PGE2 and PGF2 alpha were unaffected by UVB irradiation. The reduction of PGD synthetase activity after UVB irradiation was much more prominent in the epidermis than in the dermis, which was separated by heat treatment (55 degrees C, 30 sec). Immunohistochemical studies, using anti (rat spleen PGD synthetase) antibody, revealed that the number of immunopositive cells, which were identified as Langerhans cells, decreased in the basal layer of the epidermis 24 h after UVB irradiation. These results, together with the reduction of ATPase positive cells in the epidermis after UVB irradiation, suggest that the decrease of PGD synthetase activity in rat skin by UVB irradiation is, at least in part, due to the reduced Langerhans cell population in the basal layer of the epidermis. PMID- 2527911 TI - CD4+ cutaneous T-cell lymphomas show the phenotype of helper/inducer T cells (CD45RA-, CDw29+). AB - CD4+ T cells are heterogenous and include at least two subsets that differ in their influence to immunoglobin synthesis, cytokine secretion pattern and immunophenotype. Among others these subsets have been designated as suppressor/inducer or naive T cells (CD45RA+, CDw29-) and helper/inducer or memory T cells (CD45RA-, CDw29+). Current theories suggest that these CD4+ T-cell subsets either reflect sequential stages of maturation before and after activation (antigen contact) or represent distinct lineages. In this study, we systematically analyzed the participation of both suppressor/inducer (CD45RA+) and helper/inducer (CDw29+) T cells in the dermal lymphohistiocytic infiltrate of various CD4+ cutaneous T-cell lymphomas. Although in peripheral blood both subsets are equally distributed, we present evidence that all CD4+ cutaneous T cell lymphomas are of the helper/inducer T cell phenotype. These findings are of importance both for pathogenetic and clinical considerations: the presence of plasma cells in dermal infiltrates and the elevation of serum immunoglobulins in patients of mycosis fungoides may be the consequence of interleukin-4 secretion of the neoplastic CD4+ helper/inducer cells. The exclusive memory T cell phenotype of cutaneous T-cell lymphomas may be due to a general predominance of this subset in the skin, or be the consequence of cellular activation during malignant transformation. PMID- 2527912 TI - Inflammatory properties of human C5a and C5a des Arg/ in mast cell-depleted human skin. AB - C5a and its degradation product, C5a des Arg, elicit immediate cutaneous inflammatory reactions after intradermal injection. Histologically, these reactions are characterized by neutrophil-rich leukocytic infiltrates, leukocytoclasis, edema, and dermal mast cell degranulation. It has not been possible to assess in vivo the relative contributions of resident mast cells and circulating leukocytes to this reaction because the accumulation of leukocytes and degranulation of mast cells occur simultaneously after injection of these anaphylatoxins. To assess the role of mast cells in these inflammatory reactions, we have examined the reactivity of human skin selectively depleted of dermal mast cells by local corticosteroid treatment. Corticosteroid-treated skin became virtually devoid of dermal mast cells within 4-6 wk as assessed by light microscopy, immunofluorescence with fluorescein-conjugated avidin, or electron microscopy. Mast cell-depleted skin demonstrated normal vasopermeability and vasodilatory responsiveness to intradermal injection of histamine, but the reactivity of these sites to the mast cell secretagogue, morphine, was absent. Moreover, no clinical reactions were detectable in mast cell-depleted human skin after intradermal challenge with 50 ng of either C5a or C5a des Arg, despite the fact that biopsies of these sites revealed substantial, neutrophil-rich infiltrates. These infiltrates were qualitatively and quantitatively identical to C5a or C5a des Arg-induced infiltrates in mast cell replete skin. This experimental approach in vivo has allowed the independent analysis of the anaphylactogenic and chemoattractant activities of human C5a and C5a des Arg in human skin, demonstrated the importance of dermal mast cells in these clinical responses, and shown that leukocytes can accumulate at these injection sites directly in response to these mediators. PMID- 2527913 TI - Intravascular echographic assessment of vessel wall characteristics: a correlation with histology. AB - In vivo application of intravascular high frequency ultrasonic imaging for peripheral and coronary artery disease is a promising technique for vascular surgeons, radiologists and cardiologists. This report demonstrates in vitro results obtained with a high frequency imaging catheter (40 MHz) in 70 human specimens including arteries with and without atherosclerosis, veins, coronary artery bypass grafts and vascular prosthetic material. Correlation between the ultrasonic images and the histologic characteristics of the corresponding vessel wall tissue and lumen geometry was established. In addition, the effect of intervention techniques i.e. balloon angioplasty, spark erosion and laser were studied with ultrasound and histology. It is anticipated that development of such a catheter imaging technique has potential for diagnostic imaging and for combination with therapeutic systems. PMID- 2527914 TI - Clinical applications of intravascular ultrasound imaging in atherectomy. AB - This paper discusses the potential application of intravascular ultrasound imaging in the context of catheter-based atherectomy. The advantages and limitations of ultrasound in this application are discussed, and representative cases are presented. PMID- 2527915 TI - Laser ablation and the need for intra-arterial imaging. AB - In 48 patients with severe claudication due to a total obstruction of the femoropopliteal artery, percutaneous recanalization was attempted with a 2.2 mm diameter rounded sapphire contact probe in conjunction with a continuous wave Nd:YAG laser. In eight patients the contact probe laser catheter took a subintimal course that could not be redressed. Laser recanalization needs high resolution diagnostic information on the complex anatomy of the obstruction. Intra-arterial ultrasound imaging may provide the necessary information to evaluate, monitor or guide novel angioplasty techniques. The design of an ultrasound catheter which combines high-resolution diagnostic imaging with steerability, flexibility and controlled ablation is now the major engineering challenge in interventional cardiology. PMID- 2527916 TI - Optimized ultrasound imaging catheters for use in the vascular system. AB - Clinical experience with 6 and 9 Fr ultrasound imaging catheters (UICs) reveals that several transducer and catheter tip varieties are needed for optimum imaging of diseased intravascular sites. Our UIC design has combined established catheter design and very high frequency ultrasound imaging technology to create a versatile, user configured system for intravascular ultrasound imaging. Optimum use requires proper strategic selection of transducer and catheter sizes, frequencies of operation, and interventional accessories. PMID- 2527917 TI - Intraluminal ultrasound guidance of transverse laser coronary atherectomy. AB - Catheter systems for laser atherectomy in peripheral and coronary arteries are subject to many design constraints. Ideal mechanical, laser and imaging requirements for these systems are proposed, and compared to the design features of a laser atherectomy system currently under development by Intra-Sonix. This system uses high resolution ultrasound for real-time guidance and control and is potentially capable of characterizing lesions and imaging critical structures in the coronary arteries, to guide physicians in the application of laser therapy. Precise catheter location and rotational direction can be provided continuously as the therapeutic intervention proceeds. Examples are given of the imaging modes and ultrasound images of an artery produced by the Intra-Sonix system. PMID- 2527918 TI - Clinical percutaneous imaging of coronary anatomy using an over-the-wire ultrasound catheter system. AB - This manuscript describes initial applications of a unique new intravascular ultrasound imaging catheter. This 5.5F catheter uses an over-the-wire design and incorporates a phased array transducer at its tip. There are no moving parts. A 360 degree image is produced perpendicular to the catheter axis using a 20 MHz center frequency. A dedicated minicomputer is used for initial image processing, as well as enhancement and analysis. Initial studies using phantoms demonstrated excellent accuracy for linear dimensions (r = 0.99, range 3.0 to 7.6 mm, image = 1.0 phantom + 0.1). Serial imaging of the same arterial segment in vitro showed good reproducibility (coefficients of variance 2.5-5.2%). Likewise, intra- and inter-observer variability in image analysis was minimal (r = 0.92-0.99). Initial in vivo studies were performed in dogs. The catheter was easily passed over a wire into mesenteric, cerebral and coronary vessels without evidence of significant vessel trauma. Subsequently, 20 patients had percutaneous coronary imaging performed during cardiac catheterization. Cardiac motion was rarely a problem and acceptable images were obtained in all but two patients. Areas of calcification, mild stenoses, branching vessels and graft atherosclerosis could be identified. We conclude that intracoronary ultrasound imaging will be useful for assessing vascular pathology, for studying both rapid change in vessel size as well as chronic progression or regression of atherosclerosis, and for assisting with new therapeutic interventions. PMID- 2527919 TI - Imaging artifacts in mechanically driven ultrasound catheters. AB - Mechanically driven catheter tip echo systems presently operate with a flexible shaft. Rotation power from a proximally mounted motor is transferred via this shaft to the rotating echo tip element. In practice, the tip does not identically 'follow' the rotation of the motor due to low torsional rigidity of the shaft, which creates artifacts in the displayed cross-sectional image. In order to visualize curved arteries such as the coronary arteries, a compromise is necessary between the required low flexural rigidity and a high torsional rigidity. In this report the image artifacts of mechanically driven systems are presented that are related to catheter tip motion. The properties of a spiral drive-shaft and a solid drive-shaft have been compared for rotational speed of 1000 and 3000 revolutions per minute (rpm), and for straight as well as strongly curved catheters. By way of example, the periodic angle error varies from 25 degrees top-top in a straight catheter to 80 degrees top-top when the catheter is curved with R = 20 mm, using a spiral drive-shaft at 1000 rpm. PMID- 2527920 TI - Design characteristics for intravascular ultrasonic catheters. AB - Several factors are important in the design of intracoronary ultrasonic imaging catheters. The mechanical considerations are first discussed and equations are developed for calculating the forces affecting catheter passage in a blood vessel. These equations are applied to the problem of Judkins (transfemoral) coronary artery catheterization, using previously described anatomical information and catheter moduli values. The introduction force is calculated for each position along the vessel for both a high and low value of estimated catheter-wall friction (coefficient values of 0.04 and 0.2, respectively). Next, the problem of catheter or transducer rotation is analytically described. The advantages of spiral drive cables with high torsional rigidity and low bending stiffness are numerically shown. Finally, several methods and considerations are given for electrical connection to the transducer. These results and equations should facilitate the design of intracoronary ultrasound imaging devices in the future. PMID- 2527921 TI - The post-lepromin scar and its significance in the control of HD. AB - In the past little attention has been paid to the post-lepromin scar (PLS) and its use in controlling Hansen's disease (HD), particularly in the prognosis, classification and measurement of CMI response. The immuno-information of the Mitsuda reaction is thought to be informative only in the extreme range of 10 + mm or in its absence. Previous studies have shown that the range of PLS formation increases proportionally to the degree of lepromin positivity. PLS positive HD patients have a stable form of the disease with good prognosis. Those unable to form a PLS have a marked tendency to downgrade towards the lepromatous form of HD. PLS formation appears to indicate a CMI response to M. leprae implying immunity. It is thought that there exists a correlation between the PLS and the lymphocyte transformation test (LTT), both reaching their optimum measurement three months after the M. leprae injection, either with lepromin or M. leprae suspension used for the anti-HD vaccine. It is proposed to study the use of the PLS in HD control programs on a trial basis with the objective of its general introduction as part of the management of HD control. Considerable improvements in the prognosis, classification and application of treatment can be expected from such a measure. The discovery of the armadilo as a source of M. leprae by Kirchheimer and Storrs facilitates the availability of lepromin A and its purified version, lepromin Ap. The relevant studies have shown that a 40 M/bact/ml lepromin A suspension should be used for the application of lepromin in control programs.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527922 TI - Leading the way. PMID- 2527923 TI - Specialty nursing. PMID- 2527924 TI - Cerebral vasospasm: current concepts of pathogenesis and treatment. AB - It is believed that most patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage secondary to aneurysmal rupture experience some degree of cerebral vasospasm, although not all develop specific neurologic deficits. Management is complicated, and at present the outcome is often less than optimal. This article reviews the symptoms, predictors and pathophysiology of vasospasm, highlighting current theories of pathogenesis as well as their relationship to treatment. This information is essential for the neuroscience nurse to care adequately for these patients. A plan of care for the patient with cerebral vasospasm is included. PMID- 2527925 TI - EEGs: a closer look at a familiar diagnostic test. AB - Neuroscience nurses frequently care for patients scheduled to have an electroencephalogram (EEG). Although nurses are involved in teaching the patient about the procedure, most have only a rudimentary understanding of the underlying physiology or purpose of the test, or of the actual testing procedure. This article discusses these issues as well as material for patient teaching, and the use of EEG monitoring by nurse researchers. PMID- 2527926 TI - Corpus callosotomy: the role of the nurse in family decision making. AB - The role of the nurse during selection and screening of possible candidates for corpus callosotomy is one of support and patient advocacy. The nurse must demonstrate an understanding of the selection process and utilize psychosocial, assessment and teaching skills. Then the nurse can assist in the decision-making process by being aware of the risks and benefits of surgery for epilepsy and present the information in an unbiased and equal manner. Although the final decision rests with the candidate, by being informed and aware of each candidates individuality and presenting factual information the nurse can better support the decision made and reassure the candidate regardless of the choice. PMID- 2527927 TI - Exposure keratitis in comatose children. AB - Four children developed exposure keratitis of various degrees of severity while being mechanically ventilated for control of intracranial pressure. All had been paralyzed with pancuronium and sedated with morphine to facilitate ventilation. Pathophysiology of this keratitis involves subtle and undetected incomplete eyelid closure which chronically exposes the inferior one-third of the cornea. Prevention by frequent application of ocular lubricants and taping of the eyelids is recommended. PMID- 2527928 TI - Using planned change to implement a pressure sore program. AB - The establishment of a hospital-wide wound care program is a monumental endeavor requiring mobilization of all available resources. The clinical nurse specialist in a community hospital acted as a change agent to facilitate the formation of a wound care task force, development of wound care protocols and the purchase of wound care products to address the problem of pressure ulcers. With the theory of planned change as a framework, the driving and resisting forces at work are depicted and unanticipated events that speeded and impeded the change process are revealed. Collaboration between nursing and other disciplines is discussed with recommendations offered to other practitioners considering implementation of a wound care program. PMID- 2527929 TI - The significant other's role in improving quality of life in persons with AIDS dementia complex. AB - This article contains a description of how social support systems criteria can be used by nurses as a framework to include significant others in the care of their loved ones with AIDS. Nursing care parameters are identified to facilitate mutual planning among persons with AIDS dementia complex, their significant others and nurses throughout disease progression. Incorporation of the nursing intervention protocols will improve quality of life by preparing for possible alterations in mental status should dementia occur. A case study is presented to illustrate use of the intervention protocol. PMID- 2527930 TI - BVI 2000: a non-invasive technique to assess bladder function. PMID- 2527931 TI - Legal parameters for expanded roles in nursing. PMID- 2527932 TI - Drug information sources for practicing nurses. AB - Many printed resources about drugs are available to practicing nurses. In the near future, information will probably by readily accessible via computers. In the interim, it is necessary to rely on other printed materials. As with all purchases, nurses should choose wisely among possible references, and select those meeting the specific needs of the practice setting, as well as complementing the nurses' existing knowledge. PMID- 2527933 TI - [Antibodies to group B streptococci in maternal and cord sera]. AB - Group B Streptococcus (GBS) antibody concentrations were studied in 214 pregnant women, of which 91 were carriers and 123 were noncarriers. The method using EIA was designed to measure antibodies to Type Ia, Ib, Ic, II, III and Group B. By means of AGG (Agglutination), antibodies to Type Ib, II, and Group B could also be measured. 1) The Group B antibody concentration in pregnant carriers of GBS (mean: 13.9 microliters with EIA, 4.77 microliters with AGG) was significantly greater than that in noncarriers (mean: 10.6 microliters with EIA, 3.64 microliters with AGG). 2) In most of the cases studied, the cord serum concentration was similar to the maternal concentration when EIA was used. On the other hand the antibody concentrations in cord serum were lower than those in the maternal serum when AGG was used. 3) In a premature baby (1,768g) and in a baby with Downs' syndrome the cord serum concentration was lower than the maternal concentration, while in a large baby (4,074g) the cord serum concentration was higher than the maternal concentration. 4) Using EIA, the type-specific antibody which coincided with the type of strain isolated from each vaginal carrier showed a higher concentration than any other type-specific antibody. PMID- 2527934 TI - Red blood cell calcium homeostasis in patients with end-stage renal disease. AB - Low cell calcium level is essential for preservation of red blood cell (RBC) membrane deformability and survival. RBCs from patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) demonstrate reduction in membrane deformability, possibly as a result of increased RBC cellular calcium level. To evaluate calcium homeostasis in RBCs from patients with ESRD, we measured cell calcium level, basal and "calmodulin"-stimulated calcium-stimulated Mg-dependent ATPase (CaATPase) activity, and calcium 45 efflux were measured before and after hemodialysis. The in vitro effect of uremic plasma and of urea on CaATPase activity of normal RBCs was tested, and 45Ca influx into RBCs of patients undergoing hemodialysis also was determined. A morphologic evaluation of red cells from patients with ESRD was performed with a scanning electron microscope. RBC calcium level in patients (mean +/- SEM 21.2 +/- 2.8 mumol/L of cells; n = 28) was higher than in controls (4.9 +/- 0.3 mumol/L of cells; n = 24; p less than 0.001). Hemodialysis had no effect on cell calcium level. Both basal and "calmodulin"-stimulated RBC CaATPase activities in patients with ESRD (n = 9) were reduced by approximately 50% (p less than 0.01), but after hemodialysis, enzyme activity returned to normal. 45Ca efflux from calcium-loaded cells, which was 2574.0 +/- 217.0 mumol/L of cells per 0.5 hours before hemodialysis, increased to 3140.7 +/- 206.8 mumol/L of cells per 0.5 hours after hemodialysis (p less than 0.005). In vitro incubation of normal RBCs with uremic plasma depressed CaATPase activity, but incubation with urea had no effect. RBCs of patients with ESRD revealed increased 45Ca influx, 7.63 +/- 1.15 mumol/L of cells per hour versus 4.61 +/- 0.39 mumol/L of cells per hour (p less than 0.025). RBCs of patients revealed a high incidence of spherocytosis and echynocytosis, which correlated with a high cell calcium level (r = 0.894, p less than 0.01). These results indicate that RBC calcium level is elevated in patients with ESRD and suggest that a dialyzable uremic factor inhibits RBC CaATPase activity and thereby calcium efflux, which may account for the elevated cell calcium level. The increased calcium influx further increases cellular calcium level. These abnormalities are associated with spherocytosis and echynocytosis and may contribute to the shortened survival of RBCs in uremia. PMID- 2527935 TI - Augmentation of diastolic function with phosphodiesterase inhibition in congestive heart failure. AB - Phosphodiesterase inhibition promotes both cellular uptake and release of calcium, which should thus facilitate both myocardial relaxation and myocardial contraction. To test the hypothesis that phosphodiesterase inhibition augments both diastolic and systolic ventricular function, parameters of left ventricular ejection and filling were measured in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy before and after therapy with the phosphodiesterase inhibitor enoximone. Baseline radionuclide ventriculography was performed in all subjects with derivation of left ventricular ejection fraction and peak diastolic filling rate. These parameters were again assessed after 3 months of therapy with either placebo (six patients) or enoximone (seven patients). Ejection fraction increased significantly (p less than 0.05) in the enoximone group (change from baseline = 11 +/- 14 ejection fraction units) but did not change in the placebo group (0.2 +/- 5 ejection fraction units). Enoximone administration was associated with a significant (p less than 0.05) increase in peak filling rate, from 0.9 +/- 0.5 to 1.4 +/- 0.5 end-diastolic volumes per second, which was noted in the placebo group (1.2 +/- 0.6 to 1.4 +/- 0.9 end-diastolic volumes per second; p = not significant). Thus, in comparison with placebo, exoximone augmented both diastolic and systolic function in dilated cardiomyopathy. This identifies an additional influence of this class of inotropic agent on the function of the intact ventricle that is consistent with previously described cellular mechanisms and that may significantly contribute to a restoration of normal hemodynamic status in dilated cardiomyopathy. PMID- 2527936 TI - Coagulation increases neutrophil CR1 and CR3 expression: primary role for platelet-derived growth factor. AB - Neutrophil receptors for C3b(CR1) and C3bi(CR3) mediate a number of functions important for infection control and tissue repair, such as adherence, aggregation, orientation in chemotactic gradients, and phagocytosis of opsonized particles. We studied the effect of the coagulation of whole blood on the induction of neutrophil complement receptor (CR) expression in vitro. Neutrophils incubated in serum for 1 hour at 37 degrees C increased the expression of CR1 3.43-fold and CR3 3.06-fold compared with incubation in buffer (p less than 0.001). In contrast, incubation in plasma did not induce such an increase. The serum factor responsible for this CR-inducing effect appeared to be a platelet constituent, because (1) serum derived from platelet-rich plasma, but not platelet-poor plasma, contained the CR-inducing factor; (2) pretreatment with aspirin inhibited the adenosine diphosphate-induced expression of this factor in platelet-rich plasma; (3) the CR-inducing factor was also contained in supernatants derived from frozen/thawed platelets; (4) pure platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) induced CR expression to the same extent as did whole serum; and (5) the CR-inducing activity of serum and platelet supernatants was inhibited by incubation with antibody against PDGF but not by antibody against C5. Thus, a platelet component that is probably PDGF appears to be the major CR-inducing factor generated during in vitro coagulation and may play a vital role in mediating the neutrophil response to tissue injury and inflammation. PMID- 2527937 TI - Surgical management of drooling in the neurologically damaged child. AB - Continuous drooling after infancy is rarely seen in normal children. Neurologically damaged children are more likely to continue to drool, and it may be so severe in some cases as to require surgical correction. Submandibular duct relocation is a procedure with minimal morbidity and excellent results. This procedure has been carried out on 16 children at the Eye and Ear Hospital and Temple Street Children's Hospital, Dublin, between the years 1982 to 1987. An overall improvement occurred in 13 cases with only one post-operative complication. Such surgery has transformed the lives of these children as well as being a great source of relief for the parents. PMID- 2527938 TI - Chiropractic distractive decompression in treating pelvic pain and multiple system pelvic organic dysfunction. AB - No data are available on the incidence of pelvic pain and organic dysfunction (PPOD) in patients suffering from low back pain. PPOD is not an uncommon finding in the low back pain patient. Women appear to be more frequently involved than men. The results of recent electrophysiologic investigations indicate that many patients with urological, bowel or anorectal dysfunction demonstrate evidence of denervation neuropathy in muscles innervated by the branches of the pudendal nerve. Six patients with low back pain meeting predetermined criteria, indicating the presence of PPOD as a result of suspected lower sacral nerve root compression (LSNRC) secondary to a mechanical disorder of the low back were treated with chiropractic distractive decompressive manipulation of the lumbar spine. Symptoms of PPOD, and indicators of LSNRC were assessed prior to the onset, and following the termination of treatment. It appears that selected indicators of LSNRC represent the most sensitive clinical signs of identifying the presence of PPOD which may respond to manipulative treatment, and may also provide the most sensitive measure of overall PPOD response. These findings, although preliminary suggest a possible etiology of PPOD in the low back pain patient with evidence of LSNRC. Further work in this area is encouraged. PMID- 2527939 TI - Facet syndrome: clinical signs, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. AB - Low back pain is a major health problem in the United States today. Nearly 80% of Americans experience low back pain during their lifetime, with facet syndrome accounting for a large percentage of these symptoms. A recent study on low back pain showed involvement of one or more facet joints in 79% of the patients studied, while ruptured disc involvement was present in only 1%. This report investigates facet syndrome, its anatomy, etiology, clinical signs and symptoms, diagnosis, and various methods of treatment and patient management. PMID- 2527940 TI - Hepatitis B vaccination in Ramathibodi health personnel 1986-1987. AB - Hevac-B-Pasteur 5 mcg, H-B-Vax I 20 mcg, and Engerix B 20 mcg, were given to 23, 34, 15 health personnel in Ramathibodi hospital. The seroconversion rate for Pasteur vaccine was 85 per cent compared to 95 per cent for the other two groups. Adverse reactions were few and transient. PMID- 2527941 TI - Adaptive responses to sustained volume expansion in hyponatraemic rats. AB - Studies were carried out to evaluate adaptive responses to water retention in an experimental model of the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuresis (SIAD). Hyponatraemia was induced by continuous s.c. infusions of the antidiuretic vasopressin analogue 1-deamino-[8-D-arginine]-vasopressin in rats ingesting a 5% (w/v) dextrose solution. After 48 h of sustained decreases in the plasma concentration of Na+ to 23-25% of normal levels, all body fluid compartments were significantly expanded: plasma volume estimated by changes in plasma protein concentration was increased by 26%, extracellular fluid volume estimated by 22Na volume of distribution was increased by 24%, and total body water estimated by 3H2O volume of distribution was increased by 16%. Despite marked increases in all body fluid compartment volumes, mean arterial blood pressure was only modestly increased to 110 +/- 2 mmHg in conscious hyponatraemic rats. Consistent with the sustained volume expansion, both basal and stimulated plasma renin activities were significantly suppressed in the hyponatraemic rats. Plasma vasopressin levels were similarly suppressed, and the hyponatraemic rats showed a striking absence of endogenous vasopressin secretion in response to marked intravascular volume depletion (15-45%) produced by s.c. administration of polyethylene glycol. Plasma concentrations of atrial natriuretic peptide were initially stimulated four- to fivefold above basal levels in response to the water-induced volume expansion, but by 48 h fell to ranges not significantly different from basal unstimulated levels, despite continued plasma and extracellular fluid volume expansion at that time. These results illustrate that multiple haemodynamic and hormonal adaptive responses occur with sustained dilutional hyponatraemia in rats, and suggests that these can be of sufficient magnitude to allow continued water retention without necessarily provoking either escape from antidiuresis or continued natriuresis. In contrast with previous studies in experimental animals in which hyponatraemia was maintained by continuous forced administration of hypotonic fluid, rats in this model reached a steady state with characteristics resembling many of those observed clinically in patients with SIAD. PMID- 2527942 TI - Seasonal and steroid-dependent effects on the modulation of LH secretion in the ewe by intracerebroventricularly administered beta-endorphin or naloxone. AB - The natural opioid ligand, beta-endorphin, and the opioid antagonist, naloxone, were administered intracerebroventricularly (i.c.v.) to evaluate effects on LH secretion in ovariectomized ewes and in ovariectomized ewes treated with oestradiol-17 beta plus progesterone either during the breeding season or the anoestrous season. Ovary-intact ewes were also studied during the follicular phase of the oestrous cycle. Jugular blood samples were taken at 10-min intervals for 8 h and either saline (20-50 microliters), 100 micrograms naloxone or 10 micrograms beta-endorphin were injected i.c.v. after 4 h. In addition, luteal phase ewes were injected i.c.v. with 25 micrograms beta-endorphin(1-27), a purported endogenous opioid antagonist. In ovariectomized ewes, irrespective of season, saline and naloxone did not affect LH secretion, but beta-endorphin decreased the plasma LH concentrations, by reducing LH pulse frequency. The effect of beta-endorphin was blocked by administering naloxone 30 min beforehand. Treating ovariectomized ewes with oestradiol-17 beta plus progesterone during the breeding season reduced plasma LH concentrations from 6-8 micrograms/l to less than 1 microgram/l. In these ewes, saline did not alter LH secretion, but naloxone increased LH pulse frequency and the plasma concentrations of LH within 15-20 min. During anoestrus, the combination of oestradiol-17 beta plus progesterone to ovariectomized ewes reduced the plasma LH concentrations from 3-5 micrograms/l to undetectable levels, and neither saline nor naloxone affected LH secretion. During the follicular phase of the oestrous cycle, naloxone enhanced LH pulse frequency, which resulted in increased plasma LH concentrations; saline had no effect.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527943 TI - Stimulus class formation and concept learning: establishment of within- and between-set generalization and transitive relationships via conditional discrimination procedures. AB - Three students with moderate mental retardation were taught a complex stimulus class with a two-choice conditional discrimination procedure applied across eight 10-member stimulus sets. Each set was composed of five age-appropriate and five age-inappropriate examples of clothing, accessories, and leisure items (e.g., a Walkman radio). Discrimination training was programmed serially across each set, and generalization probes were conducted concurrently among all sets. Generalization probes consisted of unreinforced conditional matching trials with comparison items being drawn from (a) the set undergoing training (within-set probes), (b) sets not undergoing training (between-set probes), and (c) both sample and comparison items from different sets (transitive stimulus control probes). Results indicate that within-set generalization, between-set generalization, and transitive stimulus relations controlled responding by all 3 students for items that had been contingently associated with reinforcement. However, items that gained control of responding through within-set and between set generalization alone (i.e., not acquired through contingent reinforcement) remained at baseline levels during transitive stimulus control probes. Results are discussed in terms of a taxonomy of multiple sources of stimulus control that underlie socially defined and maintained stimulus classes. PMID- 2527944 TI - Isolation and characterization of (gamma, delta) CD4+ T cell clones derived from human fetal liver cells. AB - Lymphocytes isolated from human fetal liver and expanded in vitro in IL-2 containing media reveal the existence of CD4+ gamma, delta T cells. These cells display differential features of double-negative and CD8+ gamma, delta T cells as well as of CD4+ alpha, beta T cells. Thus, they failed to lyse targets in lectin mediated killing assays and to perform classical helper functions. These results add new information necessary for a better understanding of the physiological role of the gamma, delta T cells. PMID- 2527945 TI - In vivo administration of histoincompatible lymphocytes leads to rapid functional deletion of cytotoxic T lymphocyte precursors. AB - It is well established that a single intravenous injection of F1 lymphocytes can rapidly and specifically reduce the ability of a parental recipient to generate CTL against donor alloantigens in a subsequent MLR. By fluorescently labeling the injected cells, we have been able to identify, and if desired, remove them in cell suspensions prepared from recipient spleen and lymph node. The injected cells, whether F1 or syngeneic, appeared to form part of the normal recirculating pool. Removal of injected F1 cells from responder lymph node or spleen cell suspensions had no effect on the response reduction observed in the 5-d in vitro MLR (typically 80% reduction for responder cells taken 2 d after injection of F1 cells). When the frequency of CTL precursors (CTLp) was measured by limiting dilution, it was reduced to the same degree as the MLR response, implying that response reduction is due to a reduction in the number of activatable CTL in the responder cell suspension. An equal mixture of responder cells from treated (i.e., F1 injected) and control mice gave a measured CTLp frequency equivalent to the average of the separate frequencies, implying the absence of suppressor cells active in vitro. Labeled F1 cells recovered from a first recipient could be used to induce response reduction in a second recipient. The results are discussed in terms of APCs that functionally delete rather than stimulate CTLp that recognize them (i.e., a "veto mechanism"). These experiments appear to rule out a role for in vivo-induced suppressor cells up to 8 d after injection of semiallogeneic cells but do not address the question of whether they are induced at later times. PMID- 2527946 TI - Murine hepatic accessory cells support the proliferation of Th1 but not Th2 helper T lymphocyte clones. AB - The liver is the major site of clearance and degradation of foreign antigens from the portal circulation. Despite the presence of hepatic accessory cells, antibody responses to orally administered antigens are uncommon. To ascertain if hepatic accessory cells are incapable of stimulating specific subsets of T lymphocytes, freshly isolated hepatic nonparenchymal and splenic cells were cultured with a panel of antigen-specific, H-2-restricted Th1 and Th2 HTL clones. Whereas spleen cells stimulated the proliferation of both Th1 and Th2 clones, hepatic nonparenchymal cells (NPC) stimulated the proliferation of only Th1 and not Th2 clones. Adding rIL-1, rIL-6, and rIL-7, alone or in combination, to the cultures did not result in proliferation of the Th2 clones. Despite the absence of Th2 proliferation, NPC were able to stimulate the secretion of IL-3 and IL-4 by Th2 clones in the presence of antigen. Moreover, adding hepatic NPC did not inhibit spleen cells from stimulating Th2 clones in the presence of antigen. Thus, the inability of liver cells to stimulate the proliferation of Th2 helper T lymphocytes appears to be secondary to an absence of either an unknown accessory cell cofactor or an accessory cell that preferentially presents antigen to Th2 cells. The selective activation of Th1 and not Th2 cells by liver accessory cells may result in suppression of antibody responses to orally administered antigens. PMID- 2527947 TI - On the status of nonconscious processes in human cognition: comment on Reber. AB - Two issues are discussed. The first one pertains to the generality of the nonconscious learning processes and their somewhat paradoxical status in cognitive psychology. We argue that the ability of the human cognitive system to nonconsciously acquire complex knowledge structures is one of its elementary and indispensable properties. Moreover, the existence of this ability constitutes one of the necessary metatheoretical assumptions of contemporary cognitive psychology. Nevertheless, the contemporary cognitive psychology literature often implies that it is only one of many controversial and unusual phenomena. The second issue pertains to the distinction between the so-called primitive unconscious and the sophisticated unconscious as proposed by Reber (1989). PMID- 2527948 TI - More thoughts on the unconscious: reply to Brody and to Lewicki and Hill. AB - Brody (1989) and Lewicki and Hill (1989) present commentaries on my central thesis (Reber, 1989) that there exist powerful induction routines that operate largely independently of awareness and yield rich and complex tacit knowledge that resists attempts to make it conscious, although these commentaries are of dramatically different kinds. Because there is a fairly clear basis of agreement between Lewicki and Hill and the points that I made, this reply deals almost entirely with the issues raised by Brody. The focus is on two classes of issues: (a) those of a methodological nature that surround the general problem of doing experiments on unconscious cognition and (b) those that derive from considerations of evolutionary biology that provide a basis for arguing that implicit operations are primary and form the foundation for conscious processes. PMID- 2527949 TI - The effect of response bias on recall performance, with some observations on processing bias. AB - We explored Roediger and Payne's proposal that response bias does not affect recall performance and that it is therefore not necessary to control for response productivity in recall studies. Two initial experiments, contrary to expectation, corroborated Roediger and Payne's findings: Forced recall did not produce more correct recalls than free recall, even though forced recall produced substantially more false alarms than did free recall. However, in succeeding experiments involving pictorial and verbal stimuli, reliable response-bias effects on recall were demonstrated. The stimuli yielding response-bias effects were those associated with higher probabilities of being guessed by chance. In addition, some of the data suggest that processing-bias effects (differential retrieval effort) may be unintentionally induced by instructions and may significantly affect recall memory. Consequently, it is necessary to assess or to control response-bias effects and, possibly, processing-bias effects in recall experiments in which level of recall is of interest. PMID- 2527950 TI - Grouping processes in visual search: effects with single- and combined-feature targets. AB - We report evidence for spatially parallel visual search for targets defined by combinations of form elements in visual search. In Section 1, we show that flat search functions occur for combined-form targets when distractor forms are homogeneous and can be grouped together, thus segmenting the target from the distractors. Introducing heterogeneous distractors lessens distractor grouping and can produce serial search. These results cannot be easily attributed to subjects' use of local feature information to discriminate targets. Instead, they suggest that grouping can operate at a level at which combined form information is represented. In Section 2 we show that these grouping effects are spatially scaled by the size of the stimuli. In Section 3 we show that heterogeneity does not prevent flat search functions when the target has a unique defining feature. The data are interpreted in terms of a hierarchical processing system involving both devoted single-feature and combined-feature (junction) maps. Grouping processes can operate at both the single-feature and the combined-form levels. Selection in visual search remains confined to one object description at a time, but this description can be at various spatial scales, including that at the level of grouped forms. PMID- 2527951 TI - Effects of semantic priming on visual encoding of pictures. AB - We investigated the effects of semantic priming on initial encoding of briefly presented pictures of objects and scenes. Pictures in four experiments were presented for varying durations and were followed immediately by a mask. In Experiments 1 and 2, pictures of simple objects were either preceded or not preceded by the object's category name (e.g., dog). In Experiment 1 we measured immediate object identification; in Experiment 2 we measured delayed old/new recognition in which targets and distractors were from the same categories. In Experiment 3 naturalistic scenes were either preceded or not preceded by the scene's category name (e.g., supermarket). We measured delayed recognition in which targets and distractors were described by the same category names. In Experiments 1-3, performance was better for primed than for unprimed pictures. Experiment 4 was similar to Experiment 2 in that we measured delayed recognition for simple objects. As in Experiments 1-3, a prime that preceded the object improved subsequent memory performance for the object. However, a prime that followed the object did not affect subsequent performance. Together, these results imply that priming leads to more efficient information acquisition. We offer a picture-processing model that accounts for these results. The model's central assumption is that knowledge of a picture's category (gist) increases the rate at which visual information is acquired from the picture. PMID- 2527952 TI - Guided search: an alternative to the feature integration model for visual search. AB - Subjects searched sets of items for targets defined by conjunctions of color and form, color and orientation, or color and size. Set size was varied and reaction times (RT) were measured. For many unpracticed subjects, the slopes of the resulting RT X Set Size functions are too shallow to be consistent with Treisman's feature integration model, which proposes serial, self-terminating search for conjunctions. Searches for triple conjunctions (Color X Size X Form) are easier than searches for standard conjunctions and can be independent of set size. A guided search model similar to Hoffman's (1979) two-stage model can account for these data. In the model, parallel processes use information about simple features to guide attention in the search for conjunctions. Triple conjunctions are found more efficiently than standard conjunctions because three parallel processes can guide attention more effectively than two. PMID- 2527953 TI - Illusory conjunctions in the perception of Chinese characters. AB - A Chinese compound character consists of a radical component and a stem component. When compound characters were presented briefly, Ss often reported seeing illusory recombinations of radicals and stems. A series of 5 experiments suggested that the probability of seeing illusory characters is not under the direct influence of lexicality, pronounceability, or character frequency, but depends on 2 factors: (1) familiarity defined in terms of unit frequency, i.e., the frequency of occurrence of a unit either by itself or as part of a larger unit, and (2) the context-dependent perceptual distinctiveness of the components of a given character. It is suggested that the seemingly unreliable lexicality effect obtained in English studies may be reduced to a familiarity effect, and that what McClelland and Mozer (1986) referred to as the surround-similarity effect may be better characterized as an effect of perceptual distinctiveness. PMID- 2527954 TI - Movement and visual attention: the spotlight metaphor breaks down. AB - The interfering effects of distractor letters are known to diminish with increasing distance from the target letter (Eriksen & Eriksen, 1974). This result is held to support spotlight models in which visual attention can only be assigned to contiguous regions of the visual field. However, the result is also consistent with the rival claim that attention is assigned to perceptual groups. Four experiments show that grouping of target and distractors by common motion can have more influence than their proximity. Distant distractor letters that move with a target letter produce more interference than static distractors that are nearer the target. Near distractors are equally ineffective if the target is static while they move. These results imply that attention is directed to perceptual groups whose components may be spatially dispersed. The spotlight metaphor seems inappropriate for visual attention in a dynamic environment. PMID- 2527955 TI - Effects of metric and harmonic rhythm on the detection of pitch alterations in melodic sequences. AB - Tested response time to alterations. Metric rhythm and harmonic rhythm of 13-note tonal sequences were either matched or mismatched. Metric rhythm (3/4 or 4/4 meter) was induced by dynamic accents. Harmonic rhythm was induced by implied chord progressions initiated on the first note and on either every third or every fourth note. Responses were not always faster for matched rhythms or for alterations occurring on the dynamic accent. Responses were consistently faster for sequences presented in 4/4 meter. Musically untrained Ss performed similarly to trained Ss, but were slower and more variable. Accuracy of recall on a music dictation task also favored 4/4 meter rather than matched rhythms. Coding of pitch content may have been facilitated by the structural framework of 4/4 meter rather than by expectancies arising from the match of temporal and pitch organization. PMID- 2527956 TI - Binocular depth from surfaces versus volumes. AB - Subjects were asked to compare the relative depths of two binocular targets embedded in different random dot stereogram backgrounds. The disparities of the background points were either randomized, corresponding to a scattering of points within a volume, or arranged according to a sawtooth (triangle-wave) disparity profile (i.e., a set of slanted planar surfaces separated by sharp depth discontinuities). When the targets were embedded in the random volume, their depths were perceived in accordance with their relative disparities. But when the target points were embedded in the sawtooth surfaces their depths were systematically misperceived in a manner predicted by the incorrect depth interpretation of the background points. Rather than seeing a sawtooth pattern, the background points resembled a staircase in depth, and the targets, which appeared embedded in different steps, were misjudged in depth accordingly. The effect suggests a distinction between the depth processing of isolated binocular features and those associated with continuous surfaces. PMID- 2527957 TI - Binocular rivalry and dichoptic masking: suppressed stimuli do not mask stimuli in a dominating eye. AB - Reaction time was used to gauge the sensitivity of an eye during its dominant and suppressed phases of binocular rivalry. During dominance, performance was uniformly good in detecting both stimuli that were spatially identical to the suppressed stimulus and those that were different in spatial frequency. When suppressed eyes were tested, performance was poor when the stimulus was different from the dominating stimulus, but even worse when the test stimulus and the dominating stimulus were spatially identical. The results favor the view that suppression operates nonselectively on a monocular visual channel, prior to the point at which dichoptic pattern masking occurs. PMID- 2527958 TI - Aiming error under transformed spatial mappings suggests a structure for visual motor maps. AB - Transformed spatial mappings were used to perturb normal visual-motor processes and reveal the structure of internal spatial representations used by the motor control system. In a 2-D discrete aiming task performed under rotated visual motor mappings, the pattern of spatial movement error was the same for all Ss: peak error between 90 degrees and 135 degrees of rotation and low error for 180 degrees rotation. A two-component spatial representation, based on oriented bidirectional movement axes plus direction of travel along such axes, is hypothesized. Observed reversals of movement direction under rotations greater than 90 degrees are consistent with the hypothesized structure. Aiming error under reflections, unlike rotations, depended on direction of movement relative to the axis of reflection (see Cunningham & Pavel, in press). Reaction time and movement time effects were observed, but a speed-accuracy tradeoff was found only for rotations for which the direction-reversal strategy could be used. Finally, adaptation to rotation operates at all target locations equally but does not alter the relative difficulty of different rotations. Structural properties of the representation are invariant under learning. PMID- 2527959 TI - Hefting for a maximum distance throw: a smart perceptual mechanism. AB - Objects for throwing to a maximum distance were selected by hefting objects varying in size and weight. Preferred weights increased with size reproducing size-weight illusion scaling between weight and volume. In maximum distance throws, preferred objects were thrown the farthest. Throwing was related to hefting as a smart perceptual mechanism. Two strategies for conveying high kinetic energy to projectiles were investigated by studying the kinematics of hefting light, preferred, and heavy objects. Changes in tendon lengths occurring when objects of varying size were grasped corresponded to changes in stiffness at the wrist. Hefting with preferred objects produced an invariant phase between the wrist and elbow. This result corresponded to an optimal relation at peak kinetic energy for the hefting. A paradigm for the study of perceptual properties was compared to size-weight illusion methodology. PMID- 2527960 TI - Speed and accuracy of saccadic eye movements: characteristics of impulse variability in the oculomotor system. AB - Dynamic characteristics observed in the trajectories of saccadic eye movements reveal systematic variability of the force pulses used to move the eyes. This variability causes saccades to exhibit a linear speed-accuracy trade-off: As the average distance and duration of saccades toward specified target points increase, the standard deviations of saccadic-movement endpoints increase linearly with the saccades' average velocity. The linear trade-off, and other observed stochastic properties of saccades, may be attributed to noise in neuromotor processes and may be described in terms of an impulse-variability model originally designed for characterizing limb movements. According to the model, both eye and limb movements are controlled through stochastic force and time parameters that govern movement kinematics. Such an account may promote a unified conceptual framework for understanding a wide range of motor behavior. PMID- 2527961 TI - Parafoveal processing of words and saccade computation during eye fixations in reading. AB - Studied parafoveal word processing during eye fixations in reading to answer two questions: (a) Is the processing of parafoveally available words limited to the identification of beginning letters? (b) Does the parafoveal processing of words affect the following interword saccade? Reading afforded either no parafoveal preview, preview of beginning trigrams, preview of ending trigrams, or preview of the whole parafoveal word. Previews were controlled by replacing original letters either with X's or dissimilar letters. Preview benefits were larger for the whole word previews than for beginning or ending trigram previews. X-masks yielded preview benefits from intact beginning and ending trigrams but dissimilar letter masks yielded benefits from beginning trigrams only. Saccades were larger for whole word previews than for no previews. These results support Logogen-type models of word recognition and a model of saccade computation that posits a time locked functional relation between the acquisition of parafoveal word information and the positioning of each fixation. PMID- 2527962 TI - Effect of background information on object identification. AB - Previous research using briefly presented displays has indicated that objects in a coherent scene are easier to identify than are objects in incoherent backgrounds. Of interest is whether the identification of the target object depends on the identification of the scene or the identification of other diagnostic objects in the scene. Experiment 1 indicated objects are more difficult to identify when located in an "episodically" inconsistent background even when the same diagnostic objects are present in both inconsistent and consistent backgrounds. Experiment 2 demonstrated that the degree to which noncued (cohort) objects are consistent with the target object has no effect on the object identification task. Experiment 3 showed consistent episodic background information facilitated object identification and inconsistent episodic background information did not interfere relative to "nonsense" backgrounds roughly equated on visual characteristics. Implications for models of scene perception are discussed. PMID- 2527963 TI - Lexical effects on the phonetic categorization of speech: the role of acoustic structure. AB - This study examines the extent to which acoustic parameters contribute to lexical effects on the phonetic categorization of speech. Experiment 1 was designed to replicate previous findings. Two test continua were created varying in voice onset time. Results of both identification and reaction time (RT) range data showed an effect of lexical status at the phonetic boundary, but only in the slowest RT ranges, suggesting that lexical effects on phonetic categorization are postperceptual. Experiment 2 explored whether the lexical effect would emerge when the stimulus continua more nearly approximated the parameter values of natural speech. Both identification and RT range data indicated that the lexical effect disappeared. These results suggest that without attention to the acoustic structure of the stimuli, the role of top-down processing in phonetic categorization may be overemphasized. PMID- 2527964 TI - On cross-modal similarity: the perceptual structure of pitch, loudness, and brightness. AB - Examined how pitch and loudness correspond to brightness. In the Experiment 1, 16 Ss identified which of 2 lights more resembled each of 16 tones; in Experiment 2, 8 of the same 16 Ss rated the similarity of lights to lights, tones to tones, and lights to tones. (1) Pitch and loudness both contributed to cross-modal similarity, but for most Ss pitch contributed more. (2) Individuals differed as to whether pitch or loudness contributed more; these differences were consistent across matching and similarity scaling. (3) Cross-modal similarity depended largely on relative stimulus values. (4) Multidimensional scaling revealed 2 perceptual dimensions, loudness and pitch, with brightness common to both. A simple quantitative model can describe the cross-modal comparisons, compatible with the view that perceptual similarity may be characterized through a malleable spatial representation that is multimodal as well as multidimensional. PMID- 2527965 TI - Relationship between coronary artery size and ventricular hypertrophy. AB - The relationship between coronary blood flow and ventricular hypertrophy has been studied in animal models. But, this relationship in the human body is scarcely evaluated. In this study we measured coronary arterial sizes by coronary arteriograms and correlated them with ventricular hypertrophy. Patients who underwent cardiac catheterization and coronary arteriography and showed no significant coronary arterial lesions were included in this study. There were 131 patients, 75 men and 56 women, with a mean age of 53 +/- 10 years (S.D.). After evaluation with electrocardiograms, echocardiograms and left ventriculograms these patients were divided into 4 groups: (1) the non-hypertrophy (NVH) group, 50 cases; (2) the left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) group, 38 cases; (3) the right ventricular hypertrophy (RVH) group, 23 cases; and (4) the biventricular hypertrophy (BVH) group, 20 cases. The proximal portion of the 3 major coronary arteries and the left main stem were measured from coronary arteriograms with the catheter tip as a size reference. The results showed that the left main stem was larger than the 3 major coronary arteries in the NVH, LVH and BVH groups. But in the RVH group, the left main stem was not significantly larger than the right coronary artery. In all 4 groups the left circumflex coronary artery was the smallest while the left anterior descending coronary artery and the right coronary artery were similar in size. Patients with LVH showed dilatation of all 3 left coronary measurements (left main stem, left anterior descending coronary artery and left circumflex coronary artery) as compared with the NVH patients and the RVH patients.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527966 TI - Role of adenovirus type 2 early region 1B 19K protein stability in expression of the cyt and deg phenotypes. AB - The cell line KB18 constitutively expresses adenovirus type 2 (Ad2) early region 1B (E1B) genes in the absence of E1A expression and thus is useful for understanding the function and properties of E1B gene products. We report here that KB18 cells complement the cyt and deg phenotypes of Ad2 cytocidal (cyt) mutants and an Ad12 cyt mutant. Thus the E1B 19K polypeptide in KB18 is functional. Expression of E1B mRNA and synthesis of the 19K polypeptide were studied in wild-type Ad2- and Ad2cyt15-infected KB cells at 15 h post-infection, and in KB18 cells. Although E1B mRNA synthesized in KB18 cells at 5 to 7% of the level in Ad2-infected KB cells, the amount of E1B 19K polypeptide formed was similar. In contrast, the amount of 19K protein in Ad2cyt15-infected KB cells was about one-tenth of that in Ad2-infected cells, although expression of E1B mRNA was comparable to that during Ad2 infection. The half-lives of the 19K polypeptide in wild-type-infected KB cells, in Ad2cyt15-infected KB cells and in KB18 were approximately 90 min, 25 min and 22 h, respectively. The cyt phenotype was expressed at 30 to 35 h post-infection, thus showing that the instability of the 19K polypeptide in Ad2cyt15-infected cells is not due to alteration of cell morphology or cell destruction. PMID- 2527967 TI - Factors influencing the selection of toys for handicapped and normally developing preschool children. AB - Factors influencing the selection and purchase of toys for children's use were investigated. Subjects were 73 parents or adult friends of normally developing or handicapped preschool children. In addition to providing demographic information about themselves, the subjects rated the importance of 17 factors influencing their selection and purchase of toys. Contrary to previous research, the sex of the child was reported to be of only minor importance in toy selection, as was the picture on the toy package. Two factors, safety and teaching new skills, were rated as extremely important. There were no significant differences in ratings as a result of sex, ethnicity, or whether or not the subjects were parents of a handicapped child. The findings suggest a substantial degree of agreement among parents about what they consider important when choosing toys for children. PMID- 2527968 TI - In human brain two subtypes of D1 dopamine receptors can be distinguished on the basis of differences in guanine nucleotide effect on agonist binding. AB - D1 dopamine receptors were identified in membranes of human nucleus caudatus, nucleus accumbens, amygdala, and globus pallidus, by the specific binding of [3H](+)-R-8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-3-methyl-5-phenyl-1H-benzazepine-7 -ol [( 3H]SCH 23390). In these four brain regions, dopamine/[3H]SCH 23390 competition binding curves were computer-analyzed to a two-site model, distinguishing a high- (RH) and low- (RL) affinity site for dopamine. The ability of guanine nucleotides (0.4 mM GTP or 0.1 mM 5'-guanylylimidodiphosphate) to provoke a conversion of RH into RL was different between these brain regions. In amygdala, a complete conversion was seen, whereas there was no guanine nucleotide-effect on RH in globus pallidus. In nucleus caudatus and nucleus accumbens, guanine nucleotides provoked only a partial conversion of RH into RL, suggesting that these brain regions may contain guanine nucleotide-sensitive and -insensitive receptors. Heating of the membranes at 60 degrees C for 5 min had the same effect as guanine nucleotides. The pharmacological profiles of the guanine nucleotide-sensitive and -insensitive D1 receptors were similar, suggesting that D1 receptors in human brain are heterogeneous only with respect to their effector-coupling mechanism: guanine nucleotide-sensitive receptors, which are capable of undergoing functional coupling with Gs, and guanine nucleotide-insensitive receptors, which are not.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2527969 TI - 6-Aminonicotinamide selectively causes necrosis in reactive astroglia cells in vivo. Preliminary morphological observations. AB - 6-Aminonicotinamide (6-AN) is a potent antimetabolite of nicotinamide. Previous studies show a selective gliotoxic effect of 6-AN in nontraumatized nervous system. The present study was undertaken to determine if 6-AN can be selectively toxic against reactive (vs. nonreactive) glial cells distal to site of crush in rat optic nerve. Previously conducted studies indicate that glial cells in crushed optic nerves undergo marked biochemical changes during the second post operative week. In the present study, 6-AN was administered by i.p. injection 5 days after right optic nerve crush in doses of either 5 or 10 mg/kg body weight. Rats were killed 2 days after injection. High doses of 6-AN resulted in loss of astrocytes and intracellular glial edema in both crushed and unoperated optic nerve. Results were more dramatic in traumatized nerve. Low doses caused degenerative glial changes in reactive, but not in unoperated optic nerve. Injection of 5 mg doses of 6-AN at 13 days post-operatively caused degeneration of reactive astrocytes. The possibility of using 6-AN to selectively kill highly metabolic reactive astrocytes after CNS injury is discussed. PMID- 2527970 TI - Porphyrin-laser photodynamic induction of focal brain necrosis. AB - A noninvasive photodynamic method has been developed to produce focal brain necrosis using porphyrin activated in vivo with laser light. After peripheral injection of the photosensitive porphyrin derivative, Photofrin I, mice were irradiated on the posterior lateral aspect of the head through the intact depilated scalp with 632 nm argon-dye laser light. Animals were studied at one, two and seven days after irradiation. Blood-brain barrier damage was detected by the intravenous injection of Evans blue, horseradish peroxidase and heterologous immunoglobulins. At one and two days after irradiation, the lesions were characterized by extravasation of immunoglobulin and Evans blue, and by edema, ischemia and infiltration by monocytes. On the seventh day after irradiation, the lesion was smaller than it had been two days after irradiation, and had reactive changes at its edges and coagulative necrosis at its center. Extravasation of Evans blue and immunoglobulin was markedly reduced by the seventh day after irradiation, but uptake of horseradish peroxidase by macrophages located at the periphery of the lesion was evident. PMID- 2527971 TI - Toremifene: pharmacologic and pharmacokinetic basis of reversing multidrug resistance. AB - Triphenylethylene compounds, such as tamoxifen, have shown chemosensitizing activity independent of estrogen receptor status in doxorubicin-resistant cells. We examined the chemosensitizing activity of a new triphenylethylene, toremifene, and its major metabolites in a doxorubicin-resistant human breast cell line, MCF 7/DOX. In addition, we examined the chemosensitizing activity of unbound plasma toremifene and its metabolites isolated from patients treated with toremifene doses of 20 to 400 mg/d. MCF-7/DOX cells were exposed to ultrafiltrate plasma specimens in the absence and presence of doxorubicin. These latter studies were single-blinded. Toremifene and its major metabolites were capable of sensitizing multidrug-resistant cells to doxorubicin. The degree of chemosensitizing activity in vitro correlated with the plasma concentrations of toremifene and its metabolites (P less than .05). Plasma samples isolated from patients receiving high-dose toremifene (400 mg/d) had the greatest chemosensitizing activity. We present evidence that toremifene and its metabolites can sensitize resistant MCF 7/DOX cells to doxorubicin, that this effect is concentration-dependent, and that sensitizing activity can be detected at clinically achieved concentrations. PMID- 2527972 TI - Analysis of mixed lymphocyte-tumor culture in patients with malignant brain tumor. AB - To ascertain whether tumor-specific immune response occurs in patients with malignant brain tumors, lymphocyte blastogenetic responses to tumor cells were examined in 18 patients prior to operation and other treatment. Among 12 patients with malignant glioma, the peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL's) showed a positive blastogenetic response to their own glioma cells in seven (58.3%), whereas the tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL's) showed a positive response in only three (25%). In four (66.7%) of six patients with metastatic brain tumors, however, both the PBL's and TIL's showed a positive blastogenetic response to their own tumor cells. In these four patients, this lymphocyte blastogenetic response to tumor cells were at a much lower level compared with phytohemagglutinin P or allogeneic lymphocyte stimulation. Furthermore, these responses were increased when the cells were cultured with interferon-gamma (500 U). Other lymphokines had no effect on the response. This method appears to be useful in identifying the tumor-specific immune response in patients with malignant brain tumor. PMID- 2527973 TI - Comparison of hypoxia and ouabain effects on the myocardial uptake kinetics of technetium-99m hexakis 2-methoxyisobutyl isonitrile and thallium-201. AB - Effects of hypoxia and ouabain on transcapillary exchange of [99mTc]hexakis (2 methoxyisobutylisonitrile) [SESTAMIBI, also known as MIBI or HEXAMIBI] and 201TI were investigated with indicator-dilution studies using isolated rabbit hearts. Peak myocardial extraction (Emax), permeability-surface area products (PScap), and net myocardial extraction (Enet) were compared among serial injections during constant coronary flows. Overall, measures of transcapillary transport (Emax and PScap) for SESTAMIBI were significantly lower (p less than 0.001) than those simultaneously determined for thallium, but estimates of tissue retention (Enet) for SESTAMIBI and thallium were not statistically distinguishable. Hypoxia had no significant effect on mean (+/- s.d.) Emax for SESTAMIBI (0.31 +/- 0.13) or thallium (0.59 +/- 0.11), nor on mean PScap or Enet values. Ouabain (1.5 X 10(-7) M and 1.5 X 10(-6) M) had no effect on SESTAMIBI or thallium Emax (respectively, 0.29 +/- 0.08 and 0.60 +/- 0.05) or on PScap for SESTAMIBI. Thallium PScap was depressed with higher ouabain dose (control, 1.22 +/- 0.40; high ouabain, 1.06 +/ 0.41 ml/min/g; p less than 0.01). Ouabain also caused a significant and progressive increase in average SESTAMIBI Enet (control, 0.23 +/- 0.10 to high ouabain, 0.33 +/- 0.12; p less than 0.05), but depressed thallium Enet (control, 0.38 +/- 0.14 to high ouabain, 0.32 +/- 0.18; p less than 0.01). These results suggest myocardial metabolic and/or functional status have minor influence on transcapillary transport of SESTAMIBI and thallium, but significantly affects cellular retention. PMID- 2527974 TI - Mechanisms of hypertension during and after orthotopic liver transplantation in children. AB - The aim of this study was to assess the hormonal alterations that may mediate the systemic hypertension that develops in patients during the perioperative period of orthotopic liver transplantation. We studied nine pediatric patients without previous hypertension or renal disease during six time points, starting before transplantation and ending at 48 hours after surgery. Hypertension developed in all patients in association with central venous pressures less than 10 mm Hg. Free water clearance was negative in all nine patients. Vasopressin levels increased intraoperatively but fell as hypertension developed. Atrial natriuretic factor levels increased as systemic blood pressure rose. A high level of plasma renin activity was observed in four patients with renal insufficiency. In six patients, postoperative 24-hour urinary norepinephrine excretion was within the normal age-adjusted range. These findings suggest that the combination of cyclosporine, corticosteroids, and, in some patients, an elevated plasma renin activity prevents the kidney from responding to the acute volume and salt overload with an appropriate diuresis and natriuresis, thus leading to systemic hypertension. The treatment of hypertension after liver transplantation may include salt restriction, diuretics, and, in those patients with a low creatinine excretion index, angiotensin coverting enzyme inhibitors. PMID- 2527975 TI - Abnormal primary antibody responses in pediatric trauma patients. PMID- 2527976 TI - Effect of intravenous immune globulin on the coagulopathy of Kawasaki syndrome. AB - We studied the effects of immune globulin and aspirin versus aspirin alone on platelet count, platelet activation, and factor-mediated coagulation in patients with Kawasaki syndrome. Coagulation tests were performed on the day of admission to the study and 4 to 6 days later. Twenty-three patients were enrolled; 12 received immune globulin intravenously plus aspirin, and 11 received aspirin alone. At initiation of the study the groups were comparable with regard to age, sex, race, and time from onset of illness to study entry. Coagulation values were similar at entry with the exception that the aspirin group had a geometric mean platelet count that was higher than the platelet count in the aspirin-immune globulin group (p = 0.02). Four days after entry there were no significant differences between the two groups in any coagulation studies. Although the immune globulin preparation used has been effective in reducing the prevalence of coronary artery aneurysms, it appears to have no early effect on reduction of platelet activation or other measures of coagulopathy. The mechanism of action of immune globulin in patients with Kawasaki syndrome remains to be elucidated. PMID- 2527977 TI - Abdominal positioning interneurons in crayfish: participation in behavioral acts. AB - Premotor interneurons involved in the abdominal positioning behaviors of the crayfish, Procambarus clarkii, were studied intracellularly, along with motoneuron activity, in semi-intact preparations during episodes of fictive behavior. Each impaled cell was tested by injecting depolarizing current and examining the motor output. If a response was evoked then the cell was classified as a flexion-producing interneuron (FPI), extension-producing interneuron (EPI) or mixed output interneuron (MOI). A platform drop/rise procedure was then used to elicit abdominal extension-like and flexion-like responses. Interneurons that were active during positioning behavior were silenced by hyperpolarization to determine their contribution in generating the underlying motor program. The data were used to assess the degree of participation of these interneurons in abdominal positioning behavior. Fewer than half of the FPIs, EPIs and MOIs became active during the behavioral episodes. Strength of response to depolarizing current was not correlated with the probability that a cell would fire during behavior. Hyperpolarization tests showed that typical FPIs, EPIs and MOIs were only responsible for a small part of the overall motor output. Also, interneurons, regardless of their FPI or EPI classification, were often observed to fire during both flexion-like and extension-like behaviors. Responses of FPIs, EPIs and MOIs to repeated platform movements suggest that these cells may fire according to a probability distribution depending on: (1) strength of the stimulus; (2) location of the stimulus; (3) location of the interneuron. Most identified cells could not readily be assigned to a specific behavior except for the 'T' cell type, which seems intimately involved in most flexion behaviors. The results of this study support the hypothesis that there are few if any 'command neurons', as defined by Kupfermann and Weiss (1978), in the crayfish abdominal positioning system. Abdominal positioning behavior, therefore, is probably under the control of a large network of cells each contributing a small part to the overall motor output. PMID- 2527979 TI - The prevalence of disability. PMID- 2527978 TI - A comparison of some photoreceptor characteristics in the pineal and retina. II. The Djungarian hamster (Phodopus sungorus). AB - A rod-specific antiserum was used to immunolabel elements within the retina and pineal of the adult Djungarian hamster and Welsh Mountain sheep. In the retina immunostaining was localized to the outer segments and perikarya of photoreceptor cells, while in the pineal limited numbers of labelled pinealocytes were scattered throughout the gland. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was then used to obtain a quantitative measure of rod opsin in total eye and pineal extracts from the Djungarian hamster. Total rod opsin (+/- SEM) in the eye was measured by absorbance spectroscopy (1.88 +/- 0.10 nmoles opsin/eye) and by using the ELISA (1.75 +/- 0.02 nmoles opsin/eye). The opsin content from a total of 56 pineals gave a mean value of 0.34 +/- 0.01 pmoles opsin/pineal. Since a functional photopigment should be coupled in a 1:1 ratio to a chromophore, we investigated whether we could identify 11-cis and/or all-trans retinaldehydes in the pineal extracts by quantitative extraction and HPLC analysis as the oximes. No evidence of 11-cis or all-trans retinaloxime could be found, the chromatograms were indistinguishable from those produced by extracts of cortical brain tissue. We conclude that the opsin present within the adult hamster pineal is not coupled to the common vertebrate retinaldehyde chromophore, and as a result, is unlikely to be part of a functional photopigment. PMID- 2527980 TI - Biophysics of impact injury to the chest and abdomen. AB - The physical mechanism of blunt impact injuries to thoracic and abdominal viscera is often conveniently described simply in terms of "crush"--this is an over simplification. Any impact to the torso does result in the rapid displacement of the body wall which may lacerate and contuse underlying viscera, but this simple explanation does not account for pathology at sites some distance from the contact point and does not adequately describe the dependence of the severity and location of injury upon the rate of energy transfer. Quite minor displacements of the body wall may produce serious injury if the body wall velocity is high. The motion of the body wall generates waves that propagate within the body and transfer energy to internal sites. The nature and properties of these waves are discussed in simple terms and the role of waves in the production of the characteristic injuries resulting from impact to the torso is presented. PMID- 2527981 TI - Proteolytic digestion of the beta and gamma subunits of the receptor for immunoglobulin E at the cytoplasmic face of the plasma membrane. AB - Cytoplasmically exposed portions of the high affinity receptor for immunoglobulin E were investigated with controlled proteolytic digestion of plasma membrane vesicles from rat basophilic leukemia cells. Hypotonic shock treatment results in vesicle inversion, thereby exposing the cytoplasmic portions of the approximately 32 kDa beta and approximately 8 kDa gamma subunits to surface labeling by lactoperoxidase-catalyzed 125I-iodination. These 125I-labeled protein segments disappeared after treating inverted vesicles with trypsin, and labeled components also disappeared when chloramine T mediated 125I-iodination was used to label receptors after inverted vesicles had been trypsin digested and solubilized. Biosynthetic labeling of receptors with 35S-methionine showed that a 17-19 kDa labeled fragment, designated beta', remains associated with alpha after trypsin digestion of inverted vesicles. This beta' fragment was confirmed to be the intramembranous portion of the beta subunit in experiments where receptors were labeled with the hydrophobic photoactivated probe 3-(trifluoro-methyl)-3-(m [125I] iodophenyl)diazirine prior to digestion. Our experimental results are consistent with the amino acid sequence and topography of the beta subunit predicted from the recently cloned cDNA for this subunit (Kinet, J.-P., et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. 85, 6483, 1988). Since the cytoplasmically-exposed portions of the beta and gamma subunits can also be efficiently and selectively removed from solubilized receptors by trypsin, reconstitution experiments to examine the importance of these segments in mediating the delivery of the transmembrane signal are made possible. PMID- 2527982 TI - Measurement of the force necessary for laparoscopic trocar entry. PMID- 2527983 TI - Proceedings of the 17th annual meeting of the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists. Dallas, Texas, November 1988. PMID- 2527984 TI - Transabdominal laser colpotomy. AB - Transabdominal laser colpotomy was performed on 26 women for the removal of sizable pathologic specimens obtained through extensive operative laparoscopy. We used CO2 lasers operated at 10-30 W with a continuous wave. The colpotomy incision was cut across ring forceps that were then used to retrieve and remove the specimens vaginally under laparoscopic control. Colpotomy was found to be safe and not to increase morbidity in extensive laparoscopy. PMID- 2527985 TI - Availability of donated oocytes from an ambulatory sterilization program. AB - An oocyte donor program was established at the Women's Medical Pavilion, Dobbs Ferry, New York, in 1987 for women lacking normal ovarian function. The oocytes were donated voluntarily in stimulated cycles by women undergoing laparoscopic sterilization. If the donors agreed to use ovulation-induction agents and be monitored, they were compensated for their time and inconvenience. Between Nov 15, 1987, and Feb 15, 1988, 194 laparoscopic sterilizations were performed. Only 41 women (21%) met certain of the eligibility criteria. Of the remaining group, only five (12%) agreed to participate. The preliminary results suggest that tubal ligation patients are reluctant to donate oocytes despite enthusiastic counseling, the relatively small risks involved and offers of financial compensation. PMID- 2527986 TI - Ovarian wedge resection with contact Nd:YAG laser irradiation used laparoscopically. AB - Twelve women with polycystic ovary disease were treated with Nd:YAG laser contact irradiation using a cutting-type probe. Bilateral ovarian wedge resection was performed in every case. After undergoing the procedure, seven patients achieved pregnancy, and another three experienced the return of a normal menstrual cycle. Serum testosterone and androstenedione levels were decreased postoperatively, while luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol were increased. It seems that the decrease in intraovarian androgens might have reduced the negative feedback system and thus might have increased the secretion of gonadotropin and estradiol, which in turn promoted ovulation induction and pregnancy. PMID- 2527987 TI - Nd:YAG laser therapy for infertility with a contact-type probe. AB - Laparoscopic Nd:YAG laser surgery for tubal adhesiolysis, hydrosalpinx and other disorders is an effective treatment for female infertility that causes relatively little tissue damage. In initial studies using contact-type probes, the 0.4-mm diameter probe and 10 mm/sec incision speed were found to cause less tissue degeneration than did other combinations (P less than .05). Fifteen infertile women were treated at laparoscopy with a Nd:YAG laser; one of six with hydrosalpinx achieved pregnancy after salpingostomy using a contact-type probe, two of three with tubal adhesions achieved pregnancy after adhesiolysis with the Nd:YAG laser, and three of six with polycystic ovaries achieved pregnancy after wedge resection using a contact-type probe. Five of fifteen infertile women conceived after Nd:YAG laser surgery with a contact-type probe under laparoscopy. We confirmed that contact irradiation with a ceramic incising probe is capable of creating an adequate incision at low power levels and that laparoscopic Nd:YAG laser surgery for infertile women is an effective treatment. PMID- 2527988 TI - Laparoscopic sterilization combined with dilation and evacuation up to 18 weeks' gestation. AB - First-trimester suction curettage abortion performed at the time of laparoscopic sterilization does not increase the morbidity or failure rate of either procedure. No studies have been done to determine the safety of laparoscopic sterilization in association with midtrimester pregnancy termination by dilation and evacuation. Between Jan 1, 1987, and Feb 1, 1988, we performed 21 laparoscopic sterilizations at the time of second-trimester terminations of pregnancy. There were no failed procedures or postoperative complications. With proper instrumentation and surgical skill, laparoscopic sterilization can be performed in this group of patients. PMID- 2527989 TI - Association of previous abdominal surgery and significant adhesions in laparoscopic sterilization patients. AB - Many surgeons believe that women who have undergone laparotomy are not good candidates for laparoscopic sterilization. Many of those women are admitted for minilaparotomy. However, women without previous surgery can also have adhesions. We compared the incidence of significant adhesions in women with and without histories of abdominal surgery. We also examined the outcomes in each group after 955 laparoscopic sterilizations. Two hundred sixty-three women (28%) had had previous surgery. Of them, 61 (23%) displayed significant adhesions. Of the remaining 692 patients, 19 (2.7%) had significant adhesions. There were no major complications in either group. Thus, a history of previous abdominal or pelvic procedures increased the risk of significant adhesion formation nearly tenfold. Since no major complications occurred in those women, we conclude that while such patients are at increased risk, that risk is not inordinate and does not justify the routine use of minilaparotomy. PMID- 2527990 TI - Endoscopy in the diagnosis of genital tuberculosis. AB - From 1977 to 1986, endoscopy (laparoscopy, cystoscopy and hysteroscopy) was used in the evaluation of women for pelvic tuberculosis. Among 687 cases of diagnostic laparoscopy, pelvic tuberculosis was suspected in 101 (14.7%) from the appearance alone. The appearance was correlated with other criteria for the diagnosis. Definitive evidence was found in 70 cases. All 101 patients were placed on an antibiotic. Seventy-three patients reported for follow-up for more than two years. Of them, six (8.2%) were judged to be cured. Thirty-eight (52.05%) improved as determined by second-look laparoscopy and/or negative histopathology or hysterosalpingographic evidence. Eleven women (15.06%) had an intrauterine pregnancy; nine delivered normally, and two underwent termination of pregnancy for medical reasons. There were three tubal pregnancies (4.1%). In 15 cases (20.5%) the disease remained stationary. PMID- 2527991 TI - The economic impact of the rheumatic diseases in the United States. AB - We review the literature and analyze data from the National Health Interview Survey to provide estimates of the economic cost and social impacts of the rheumatic diseases in the United States. Rheumatic diseases had an economic impact in 1980 of 21 billion dollars due to expenditures for health care and lost wages, an amount equal to 1% of gross national product. These conditions are responsible for 5% of all hospital discharges, 10% of all hospital procedures, and 9% of all physician visits. They are also responsible for over 2 million persons being unable to do major activities, for 5 million being limited in other ways, and for at least 1 million being severely limited in the ability to perform activities of daily living. As great these impacts would appear to be, they are likely to grow since the aging of the population increases both the prevalence and severity of impact of the rheumatic diseases. PMID- 2527992 TI - Relationship between basal and sodium-stimulated plasma atrial natriuretic factor, age, sex and blood pressure in normal man. AB - The relationships between plasma atrial natriuretic factor (ANF), blood pressure (BP) and age have not been clearly defined. We measured plasma ANF levels and BP in 128 normal subjects (65 male; 63 female; mean age 48 years, range 20-87 years) on no medication. In subjects of 75 years or less (n = 120) plasma ANF was 5.7 +/ 0.3 pmol/l (mean +/- SEM). Plasma ANF did not differ between sexes (males 5.6 +/ 0.4 pmol/l, females 5.9 +/- 0.4 pmol/l). There was a positive correlation between plasma ANF and age, correlation coefficient (r) = 0.46, systolic BP (r = 0.44), diastolic BP (r = 0.22) and mean BP (r = 0.37) (all P less than 0.01), but after multiple linear regression analysis plasma ANF only related significantly (P less than 0.01) to age and systolic BP once other factors had been excluded. We also measured plasma ANF after erect and supine posture and during a 21IV normal saline infusion given over 4 hrs (n = 24; age range 21-62 years) after an overnight fast. Mean plasma ANF was 5.9 +/- 1.1 pmol/l erect, 7.4 +/- 1.6 pmol/l supine and rose to 10.1 +/- 1.4 pmol/l after saline (both P less than 0.05 vs basal). Response to saline was assessed as the area under the curve of hourly measurements. Neither this nor peak ANF during saline infusion correlated with age. We conclude that basal plasma ANF is influenced by age and systolic BP but plasma ANF response to acute saline stimulation is not. PMID- 2527993 TI - A comparison of amlodipine, verapamil and placebo in the treatment of mild to moderate hypertension. Amlodipine Study Group. AB - This is a double blind parallel group comparison in patients with mild-moderate hypertension, of amlodipine, verapamil and placebo. One hundred and sixty patients entered the double blind phase. In the amlodipine group the mean supine and standing systolic pressures at week 12 were respectively lowered from baseline by 11.9 mmHg and 11.3 mmHg more than for the placebo group (P = 0.0001). Diastolic blood pressures were also significantly reduced. With verapamil the mean supine and standing systolic blood pressure at week 12 were reduced by 7.7 mmHg and 8.3 mmHg more on verapamil than on placebo (P = 0.0083). Blood pressures of the amlodipine group were lower 24 hour post-dose than verapamil 12 hours post dose. The responder rates after eight weeks of double blind therapy were amlodipine 72.3%, verapamil 47.8% and placebo 32.6%. Body weight after verapamil increased by mean 0.9 kg, after amlodipine by 0.2 kg and after placebo decreased by 0.2 kg. Six patients were withdrawn because of adverse effects (3 amlodipine, 2 verapamil, 1 placebo). The number of patients with adverse effects possibly related to therapy were 22/53 for amlodipine, 19/54 for verapamil and 14/53 for placebo. Both drugs were, overall, well tolerated, effective and had no unexpected adverse effects. PMID- 2527994 TI - Conformational analysis and molecular modeling of 1-phenyl-, 4-phenyl-, and 1 benzyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinolines as D1 dopamine receptor ligands. AB - Conformational studies on a series of 1-phenyl-, 4-phenyl-, and 1-benzyl-1,2,3,4 tetrahydroisoquinolines that possess an identical substituent pattern to the prototypical D1 dopamine receptor antagonist SCH23390 [(R)-(+)-7-chloro-8-hydroxy 3-methyl-1-phenyl-2,3,4,5- tetrahydro-1H-3-benzazepine (1)] were performed with use of molecular mechanics calculations [MM2(85), with newly developed aromatic halide bending and torsional parameters that are now incorporated into MM2(87)], single-crystal X-ray analysis, and high-field NMR spectroscopy. The synthesis and biological testing of compounds 2-7 has been previously reported. The test compounds were compared both quantitatively and graphically to compound 1. Calculations on both the free-base and protonated forms of each compound were carried out. To insure that conformation space was adequately sampled, the test compounds were energy minimized from different starting geometries; ring inversion of the heterocycle was employed, as were dihedral driver calculations on the phenyl or benzyl rings. For N-methyl-6-chloro-7-hydroxy-1-phenyl-1,2,3,4 tetrahydroisoquinoline (2), it was determined that the torsion angle tau(C8a-C1 C12-C17) had energy minima at approximately 60 degrees and 240 degrees. This finding was corroborated by NMR studies that indicated a dramatic upfield chemical shift of ArH8 after ring cyclization. The nitrogen lone pair or hydrogen vector was approximately orthogonal to the plane of the substituted aromatic ring in the tetrahydroisoquinolines; this explained the upfield chemical shift of the vicinal chiral proton (H1). In all instances, the 6-membered heterocyclic ring in the energy-minimized structures preferred the half-chair conformation with the phenyl rings pseudo-equatorial. Distance comparisons of the proposed pharmacophoric atoms (Cl, N, O, centroid of the phenyl or benzyl ring) showed that the phenyl or benzyl centroid to ammonium H distance, Cl to N distance, and distance of the nitrogen above or below the plane of the isoquinoline aromatic ring are the distances most highly correlated with biological activity (r = 0.82, 0.75, 0.81, respectively). Resolution and single-crystal X-ray analysis of compound 2 showed the most active enantiomer to possess the S absolute configuration, in contrast to the benzazepine (R)-1. Least-squares fitting of the energy-minimized structures with SYBYL molecular modeling software showed (S)-(+) 2, rather than (R)-(-)-2, gave a better fit to (R)-1. Volume determinations derived from SYBYL multifit analyses aided in receptor mapping to qualitatively describe areas of "active" pharmacophore space as well as areas of "inactive" substituent space.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2527995 TI - Synthesis and biological evaluation of 4,6-diethyl-1,3,4,5-tetrahydropyrano[4,3 b]indole-4-acetic acid, an isomer of etodolac. AB - The synthesis of 4,6-diethyl-1,3,4,5-tetrahydropyrano[4,3-b]indole-4-acetic acid, an isomer of the antiinflammatory agent etodolac, is described. The compound was found to have an ED50 of 3 mg/kg po in the rat curative adjuvant arthritis assay, and an IC50 of 50 nM for inhibiting prostaglandin production in cultured chondrocytes. PMID- 2527997 TI - Dermatoglyphic indicators of congenital heart defects in Down's syndrome patients: a preliminary study. AB - In a preliminary study fingerprint patterns of Down's syndrome children were examined to determine correlations with congenital heart defects (CHD). The results demonstrate that the left hand digit ridge count minus the right hand digit ridge count, and number of ridges on the fifth digit of the left hand separate patients with CHD from those without heart defects (W/OHD). The method correctly classified 92% of the CHD group and 73% of the W/OHD group. PMID- 2527996 TI - Characterization of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-sensitive (IsCaP) and insensitive (IisCaP) nonmitochondrial Ca2+ pools in rat pancreatic acinar cells. AB - We have measured Ca2+ uptake and Ca2+ release in isolated permeabilized pancreatic acinar cells and in isolated membrane vesicles of endoplasmic reticulum prepared from these cells. Ca2+ uptake into cells was monitored with a Ca2+ electrode, whereas Ca2+ uptake into membrane vesicles was measured with 45Ca2+. Using inhibitors of known action, such as the H+ ATPase inhibitors NBD-Cl and NEM, the Ca2+ ATPase inhibitor vanadate as well as the second messenger inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) and its analog inositol 1,4,5 trisphosphorothioate (IPS3), we could functionally differentiate two nonmitochondrial Ca2+ pools. Ca2+ uptake into the IP3-sensitive Ca2+ pool (IsCaP) occurs by a MgATP-dependent Ca2+ uptake mechanism that exchanges Ca2+ for H+ ions. In the absence of ATP Ca2+ uptake can occur to some extent at the expense of an H+ gradient that is established by a vacuolar-type MgATP-dependent H+ pump present in the same organelle. The other Ca2+ pool takes up Ca2+ by a vanadate sensitive Ca2+ ATPase and is insensitive to IP3 (IisCaP). The IsCaP is filled at "higher" Ca2+ concentrations (approximately 10(-6) mol/liter) which may occur during stimulation. The low steady-state [Ca2+] of approximately 10(-7) mol/liter is adjusted by the IisCaP. It is speculated that both Ca2+ pools can communicate with each other, the possible mechanism of which, however, is at present unknown. PMID- 2527998 TI - Structural organization of multiple rat calmodulin genes. AB - Elsewhere, we have reported the structure of a rat calmodulin gene and two distinct rat calmodulin cDNAs, pRCM1 and pRCM3. Here, I report the cloning and sequencing of the third calmodulin cDNA (pRCM4) and two additional rat calmodulin genes. The original calmodulin gene is named CaM I (pRCM1) and the newly discovered calmodulin genes are named CaM II (pRCM3) and CaM III (pRCM4). CaM II spans about 10 x 10(3) base-pairs and consisted of five exons, while CaM III spans about 7.2 x 10(3) base-pairs and consisted of six exons. One of the introns (intron 3) observed in CaM I and CaM III is lost in CaM II. Otherwise, the intron/exon organization of these genes is exactly the same. In all calmodulin genes, the first intron separates the initiation codon (ATG) from the coding region of the protein. Northern blotting showed that CaM I is transcribed primarily into 1.7 x 10(3) base-pair mRNA in various tissues examined and 4.0 x 10(3) base-pair mRNA mainly in skeletal muscle, CaM II is transcribed into 1.4 x 10(3) base-pair mRNA almost exclusively in brain and CaM III is transcribed predominantly into 2.3 x 10(3) base-pair mRNA and faintly into 1.0 x 10(3) base pair mRNA mainly in skeletal muscle and brain. DNA sequences in the promoter regulator regions of these genes are partly homologous but essentially distinct and possess a number of direct repeats, palindromes and feasible stem-loop structures. Together with these, I report here the structures of the third and fourth calmodulin retropseudogenes. PMID- 2527999 TI - The response of the rat urinary bladder microcirculation to photodynamic therapy. AB - Light activation of dihematoporphyrin ether (photofrin II) has been used in the treatment of bladder tumors, yet the effects of this treatment on the normal urinary bladder microcirculation have not been determined. This study involved the use of in vivo television microscopy to observe the effects of light activation (530 to 560 nm., 175 mW/cm.) on the urinary bladder microcirculation of female Sprague-Dawley rats. Animals pretreated with dihematoporphyrin ether 30 minutes prior to light activation had high serum and low tissue concentrations of the photosensitizer and activation resulted in a statistically significant reduction of red blood cell column diameter in both arterioles and venules. The reduction was primarily due to mural thrombus formation with the occlusion remaining 60 minutes after activation. Animals pretreated 48 hours before activation had low serum and high tissue concentrations of dihematoporphyrin ether and activation had no microcirculatory effects apart from occasional platelet aggregation. These results suggest that the photodynamic effect on normal (non-neoplastic) tissue treated more than 48 hours after administration of dihematoporphyrin ether is probably due to a direct effect of light and the sensitizer on the smooth muscle of the bladder rather than an effect on the microcirculation. PMID- 2528000 TI - Mechanical control of coronary artery inflow and vein outflow. AB - To analyze the origin of the coronary artery inflow and the coronary vein outflow, we measured the intramyocardial artery flow and the epicardial small vein flow by means of a laser Doppler velocimeter with an optical fiber. The functional characteristics of the intramyocardial capacitance vessels were investigated by analyzing the responses of coronary vein flow after stepwise changes in coronary artery pressure during long diastole. Then the effect of the intramyocardial capacitance vessels on coronary artery inflow and vein outflow was evaluated. Intramyocardial artery flow was found to be almost exclusively diastolic with frequent systolic reverse flow, whereas peripheral coronary vein flow was almost systolic exclusively. The intramyocardial capacitance vessels have two functional components, unstressed volume and ordinary capacitance. When the unstressed volume was saturated, the intramyocardial displacable blood volume impeded the coronary artery inflow, but promoted vein outflow. PMID- 2528001 TI - Mechanical adaptation of heart rate change for coronary circulation in patients with and without ventricular hypertrophy. AB - To clarify the mechanical adaptation and interference of coronary vessels, we studied hemodynamics of coronary circulation in control and 4 different pacing rates (80, 100, 120, 150/min) in 5 patients with angina pectoris (AP) and in 5 patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Coronary sinus flow (CSF) was measured by a Webster's thermodilution catheter, and we applied ascorbic acid platinum reaction for the mean transit time measurement in left coronary flow (t0 t2). Coronary vascular bed (CVB) was obtained by multiplying CSF and t0-t2. CSF in AP gradually increased from 104 +/- 21 ml/min at 72/min to 148 +/- 42 ml/min at 120/min, while CSF in HCM changed slightly from 91 +/- 25 ml/min at 64/min to 94 ml/min at 120/min. Average t0-t2 in HCM was 6.0 +/- 1.6 sec in control which was significantly lower than that in AP (7.8 +/- 0.7 sec). Calculated CVB in AP increased at any given heart rate up to 120/min (13.5 +/- 2.4, 15.8 +/- 1.7, 15.0 +/- 4.7, 15.1 +/- 4.3 ml), but CVB in HCM decreased from 9.1 +/- 2.3 ml at 64/min to 8.1 +/- 1.7 ml at 120/min. These data suggest that myocardial compression and suction at different heart rates and with different cardiac muscle structures play an important role for beat to beat adjustment of coronary circulation in cardiac cycle. PMID- 2528002 TI - Interaction between sympathetic nerve activity and atrial natriuretic peptide with respect to the effects on renal hemodynamics in patients with cardiovascular diseases. AB - Since it is still controversial as to whether or not atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) antagonizes norepinephrine (NE)-induced vasoconstriction, we examined the interactions of ANP and NE with respect to renal circulation. (I) Although ANP infusion at 25 ng/kg/min for 40 min caused a decrease in total peripheral resistance (-11%, p less than 0.01) in 34 patients with cardiovascular disease and 15 normotensives (NTs), renal vascular resistance (RVR) was not reduced consistently by ANP. However, there was a negative correlation between changes in RVR and the preinfusion plasma NE level (r = -0.51, p less than 0.001). (II) When NE infusion into 6 NTs at 100 ng/kg/min was followed by ANP infusion, urinary Na excretion was increased to a greater degree than that by ANP infusion alone (+234% vs +34%, p less than 0.01). Furthermore, ANP brought about a recovery in NE-induced falls in renal blood flow (+40%) and glomerular filtration rate (+38%, both p less than 0.05). These effects were attributed to both a decrease in calculated renal afferent resistance and an increase in efferent resistance (-43% and +17%, respectively, p less than 0.05). Thus, increased sympathetic nervous activity seems to augment the renal effects of ANP, and the antagonistic effects of ANP to NE-induced preglomerular vasoconstriction may counteract Na retention caused by excessive sympathetic tone. PMID- 2528003 TI - [Penetration of clarithromycin to saliva and its effect on normal salivary bacterial flora]. AB - Clarithromycin (TE-031, A-56268), a new macrolide antibiotic, was administered to rats, and the distribution of the drug in the submandibular gland was studied using microautoradiography. The study revealed good accumulation of 14C-TE-031 in both the acini and the excretory ducts. TE-031 was administered to each of 3 healthy male volunteers in a single dose of 300 mg, and its concentrations in the serum and saliva was detected. Mean values of various pharmacokinetic parameters were as follows for the serum and saliva, respectively. Cmax 1.49 micrograms/ml and 1.93 micrograms/ml; Tmax 2.91 hours and 2.66 hours; T 1/2 6.31 hours and 4.15 hours; AUC 18.58 micrograms.hr/ml and 17.70 micrograms.hr/ml. Regarding the salivary bacterial flora, the total bacterial count decreased as the salivary TE 031 concentration increased, but it recovered to the initial level in 12 hours after administration. During the 24-hour period following an administration of TE 031, the salivary bacteria did not acquire resistance to the drug. Therefore, TE 031 is an antibiotic which exerts little effect on the normal salivary bacterial flora in short-term administration. Although the results differed among the individuals, the penetration of TE-031 to saliva was superior to that to the serum. Thus, TDM of TE-031 using salivary samples is possible. PMID- 2528005 TI - [Adult T cell leukemia with CD4- and CD8-]. AB - A 53-year-old woman born in Kamo village of Shizuoka prefecture was admitted to Juntendo Izunagaoka hospital complaining cough and appetite loss. On physical examinations, general lymphadenopathy and hepatosplenomegaly were recognized. And also dry rales and wet rales were heard in the bilateral lungs. On hematological examinations, leukocytes has counted 74,900/microliters, of which 61% atypical lymphocytes, and there were HTLV-I infection and positive anti-ATLA antibody. By the above results, she was diagnosed as adult T cell leukemia (ATL). T cell subset analysis was (CD4-, CD8-, CD3-), which is rare in ATL. Three months after the admission, she was died of disturbances of respiratory function in spite of VEPA therapy. Surface marker changed from CD3- to CD3+ in the course. To illuminate this mechanism will be a key step for the future study. PMID- 2528004 TI - [Clinical evaluation of clarithromycin in treatment of acute dental infections. Comparative double-blind study using josamycin as the control]. AB - In order to objectively evaluate the usefulness of clarithromycin (TE-031, A 56268), a new oral macrolide antibiotic, in the treatment of acute dental infections, a double-blind comparative clinical trail was conducted using josamycin (JM) as the control drug. TE-031 was administered at a daily dosage of 400 mg in 2 divided doses, and JM was given at a daily dosage of 1,200 mg in 3 divided doses. The administration period was, as a rule, 7 days. A total of 302 patients were administered with the test substances (TE-031 and JM), and the clinical efficacy was evaluated by investigators for 284 patients and by a committee using a score method for 273 patients. Efficacy rates as evaluated by the investigators were 77.2% (105/136) in the TE-031 group and 69.6% (103/148) in the JM group. Efficacy rates as evaluated by the committee by the score method were 86.0% (111/129) in the TE-031 group and 80.6% (116/144) in the JM group. The differences between the 2 drug groups were not statistically significant. The investigators' evaluation of the clinical efficacy in the treatment of osteitis of the jaw gave an efficacy rate of 83.0% (44/53) in the TE-031 group and 64.7% (33/51) in the JM group. The efficacy rate in the TE-031 group was statistically higher than that in the JM group. Side effects were recorded in 7 patients (4.8%) in the TE-031 group and 3 patients (2.0%) in the JM group, while abnormal laboratory test values were detected in 3 cases each in the TE-031 and JM groups. None of these differences were statistically significant. The usefulness rates ("satisfactory" plus "very satisfactory" cases) were 73.9% in the TE-031 group and 70.3% in the JM group and were thus almost the same for the 2 drug groups. On the basis of the above results, TE-031 was concluded to be a useful drug in the treatment of acute dental infections and is expected to be able to achieve almost identical clinical efficacy as JM at only one-third of the usual dosage of JM. PMID- 2528006 TI - [Expressions of 2H4 and 4B4 antigens on ATL cells]. AB - We studied the expression of 2H4 and 4B4 on the surfaces of leukemia cells from 17 patients with adult T-cell leukemia (ATL) as well as of cells belonging to 2 T cell lines derived from ATL patients. The effects of the supernatants obtained from culture fluids of the ATL cells and the T-cell lines on IgG production of a human B-cell line, CESS cells, were also examined. On the surfaces of the ATL cells from 15 out of 17 cases and of the cells of 2 T-cell lines 4B4 obviously existed at higher percentage than 2H4 and more than 80% of ATL cells from 16 out of these 17 cases showed the expression of T4 (CD4). These findings revealed that the most of ATL cells had a helper-inducer phenotype. Supernatants (Sups) of culture fluids of ATL cells from 4 patients and those of 2 T-cell lines were added at various concentrations to the CESS cells. In only 1 Sup from ATL patient enhanced the IgG production of the CESS cells at lower concentration. However, other 5 Sups suppressed the IgG production of the CESS cells in proportion to the increase of Sup added. These results showed that phenotypical type of ATL cells does not always correspond to their functions, and the ATL cells may produce humoral factors that regulate B cell functions. PMID- 2528007 TI - [Clinical application and significance of drug delivery systems in cancer chemotherapy]. PMID- 2528008 TI - [Targeting effect of transferrin-neocarzinostatin conjugate by receptor-mediated endocytosis]. PMID- 2528009 TI - [Age-related changes of serum human atrial natriuretic polypeptide levels in normal subjects and clinical significance in liver cirrhosis, diabetes mellitus]. PMID- 2528010 TI - [Interferon-alpha/beta receptor in patients with HBV]. PMID- 2528011 TI - Mortality rate of Huntington disease in Japan: secular trends, marital status, and geographical variations. AB - The death rate from Huntington disease (HD) in Japan was analyzed using Japanese vital statistics for 1969-1985. There was no significant change in the HD death rate over the years. The overall death rate per million population was 0.15 for both sexes. As for marital status, a quarter of the HD deaths was the single group for both sexes. There were remarkable differences in the HD death rates for each sex among the four marital categories. The geographical variations in the HD death rate were observed with the highest death rate in Tokushima prefecture (1.03). The excess of observed than expected numbers of HD deaths was obtained in the occupational category VI (other) of the head of household. The mean age at death in HD was nearly constant during the period, and overall mean age at death was 48 years for both sexes, which value was eight years shorter than that in South Wales. PMID- 2528012 TI - [Serial changes in left ventricular global and regional function during exercise after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty; effect of complete coronary revascularization]. AB - In order to evaluate the effect of complete coronary revascularization (CR) with PTCA on global LV function at rest and during exercise, EF, LV volumes and systolic blood pressure/end-systolic volume index (SP/ESVI) were assessed in 23 patients with CR before, 14 days after (early FU) and 4 to 12 months after PTCA (late FU) by first-pass radionuclide angiography (FRNA). The subjects were divided into 3 groups in this study, G-I which consisted of 14 patients with continued CR, G-II, 9 patients with discontinued CR due to restenosis and G-C, 7 normal subjects. To further assess anterior (Ant) and apical (Ap) regional EFs, 15 patients with dilatation of left anterior descending artery were subdivided into 9 patients with continued success (G-I LAD) and 6 patients with restenosis (G-II LAD). Exercise-induced global LV dysfunction improved significantly both at early FU and late FU in G-I, however improved insignificantly at early FU and did not change at late FU in G-II. Even response to exercise (delta EF, % delta SP/ESVI) at late FU in G-I was significantly (p less than 0.05) less than those in G-C. Regional dysfunction during exercise already improved significantly (Ant: p less than 0.05, Ap: p less than 0.01) at early FU in G-I LAD, but did not improve sufficiently in G-II LAD. In conclusion, FRNA may be useful for the assessment of completeness of coronary revascularization by PTCA and may give guidelines for repeat angiography. PMID- 2528013 TI - Effect of a novel thromboxane A2 receptor antagonist, S-145, on collagen-induced ECG changes and thrombocytopenia in rodents. AB - The effects of S-145, a newly synthesized thromboxane, A2 (TXA2) receptor antagonist, were studied on collagen-induced changes of electrocardiograms (ECG) in rats and thrombocytopenia in rats and mice. Intravenous injection of collagen induced abnormal ECG changes such as elevation or depression of the ST segment, arrhythmia and in severe cases, cardiac arrest. These changes peaked at 3-5 min and lasted for 10 min. S-145 showed remarkable improvement of the ECG changes by both intravenous and oral administration, and the action lasted over 4 hr with 10 mg/kg, p.o. Reference compounds ONO-3708, dazoxiben and aspirin also improved the ECG changes significantly, but ticlopidine was ineffective. S-145 prevented the collagen-induced thrombocytopenia in rats but did not affect the increase in plasma TXB2 levels. S-145 also prevented collagen-induced thrombocytopenia in mice after either intravenous or oral administration in a dose-dependent manner. The efficacy of S-145 was 4-13 times greater than those of the reference compounds, and the duration of action was over 4 hr with 10 mg/kg, p.o. These results indicate that S-145 is a potent, orally, active and long-lasting TXA2 receptor antagonist, which will be promising as a drug for thromboembolism and ischemic heart disease caused by platelet activation. PMID- 2528014 TI - [Transcutaneous laser angioplasty of fine coronary and renal arteries (the first clinical experience)]. PMID- 2528015 TI - [A new approach to evaluating the prevalence of electro- cardiographic high amplitude R and S waves during mass screening]. AB - Relationships between the prevalence of electrocardiographic high-amplitude R and S waves, the stroke index, mean hemodynamic arterial BP and left-ventricular myocardial thickness (MT) were examined in a population of 411 individuals, aged 35-64 years. The prevalence of those waves is shown to have independent functional relationships with the stroke index and mean hemodynamic BP, irrespective of left-ventricular myocardial morphology. This functional approach is used to explain the causes of low sensitivity of electrocardiographic signs of left-ventricular myocardial hypertrophy when used for diagnostic purposes at population screenings. PMID- 2528016 TI - [Plasma levels of beta-endorphin and met enkephalin in patients with myocardial infarction]. PMID- 2528017 TI - [An acute myocardial infarction register in Yerevan]. PMID- 2528018 TI - [Functional state of the cardiovascular system in patients with post-infarction cardiosclerosis and the hypokinetic type of blood circulation in a tropical climate]. PMID- 2528019 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide and dopamine in a rat model of ischemic acute renal failure. AB - Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) has been shown to reverse experimental models of ischemic acute renal failure (ARF). However, infusion of ANP has been associated with systemic hypotension making its use in clinical ARF impractical. Therefore, in this investigation, dopamine (D) was combined with intravenous (i.v.) atriopeptin III (AP III) to determine if this regimen was effective in reversing ARF while preventing systemic hypotension and maintaining renal blood flow (RBF). Four groups of Munich-Wistar rats were studied. Group 1, sham-ARF; Group 2, renal artery (RA) clamp (55 min) followed by i.v. saline; Group 3, RA clamp followed by i.v. AP III-D; and Group 4, RA clamp followed by i.v. D only. All infusions were begun after RA clamp release and continued for four hour. Mean arterial pressure in Group 3 rats given AP III-D were similar to that in Group 2, slightly less than that in Groups 1 and 4 (P less than 0.05), but consistently greater than 100 mm Hg during the four hour infusion. RBF in Group 3 was elevated above the level in Group 1 at P less than 0.05. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR), depressed by 52% in Group 2, was corrected to control (sham-ARF) levels in Group 3. In Group 4 there was a small but significant increase in GFR compared to Group 2 (P less than 0.05), but it remained less than that in sham-ARF or AP III-D treated ARF rats (P less than 0.01). Urine flow rate and urine sodium excretion rate were more than sixfold higher in Group 3 than any other group.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528020 TI - [Neuropsychiatric disorders in newborn infants with very low birth weight (VLBW infants)--before and following introduction of modern perinatal medicine. 1. Overview of the problem, criteria for quality of survival, major CNS disorders (major handicap)]. AB - The survival quality of very low birthweight infants (VLBW infants) is highly actual just even in the time of modern perinatal medicine. Through the development and permanent improvement of the perinatal intensive therapy the survival chances of VLBW infants could be improved significantly in the last 25 years. In the 70's survival rates of 60-84 per cent were achieved in VLBW infants, in the leading centers even rates of 86 and 90.5 percent, respectively. In the 70's an enormous improvement in the survival rates from 20-45 per cent was achieved in tiny premature infants (birth weight 1,000 gm and less), too. However, the efforts of gynecologists and neonatologists to reduce the mortality of low birth-weight infants are again and again blamed for possibly obtaining successes with an increase in CNS morbidity. The parallel analysis of some brain damage groups in VLBW infants seems suitable to gain a clear statement if modern perinatal medicine contributes to reduce the frequency of early infantile cerebral damages and their consecutive handicaps altogether. In an extensive review of literature it is tried to prove this for the major CNS handicaps altogether and separately for the infantile cerebral palsies, epilepsies and mental retardations (oligophrenias). Simultaneously with an average increase from 29.7 to 69.5 per cent of the healthy surviving children, there was a reduction of major CNS handicaps on the average from 36 to 12 per cent. PMID- 2528021 TI - [Postoperative dynamic laparoscopy in children]. AB - In 24 children, operated on for diffuse peritonitis and ileus, 73 dynamic diagnostic and therapeutic laparoscopies were performed. The technical peculiarities of a method and results of the treatment are presented. The expediency of the use of a method in pediatric practice is substantiated. PMID- 2528022 TI - [Rapidly progressing glomerulonephritis. Spontaneous course and differential therapy with special reference to the infection-associated form]. AB - Since 1971 we observed 31 patients with histologically proven rapidly progressive (crescentic) glomerulonephritis. At the onset of therapy 16 patients presented with end stage renal failure, the others with impaired renal function. 21 patients received combined immunosuppressive therapy, consisting of prednisone, cyclophosphamide and azathioprine. 8 patients were treated with membrane plasmapheresis, additionally. 10 patients received no specific therapy. After 5 years 13 patients were on hemodialysis, 4 had impaired renal function and 10 patients were dead. Two patients died due to the progression of underlying diseases, the others were lost following infectious diseases. There was no additional positive effect in the group treated with membrane plasma separation compared with patients treated only immunosuppressive. Only in 4 patients without specific therapy normalization of renal function occurred. In these patients RPGN appeared after an infectious disease. We conclude that an infectious disease associated RPGN is an own entity of glomerulonephritis that has a very good prognosis and needs only antibiotic therapy. PMID- 2528023 TI - [Increased atrial natriuretic peptide in essential hypertension--relation to right atrial pressure behavior]. AB - The role of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) in the pathogenesis of essential hypertension has not yet entirely been clarified. We investigated whether the increase of ANP in essential hypertension may be explained by elevated right atrial pressures and/or a different relationship between right atrial pressures and ANP secretion. Patients with stable essential hypertension undergoing right and left heart catheterization because of suspected coronary heart disease had significantly higher ANP levels than normotensives: 58.7 +/- 6.7 pg/ml in hypertensives versus 42.0 +/- 4.1 pg/ml in normotensives (p less than 0.01). Matching hypertensives with normotensives at identical levels of left ventricular enddiastolic pressure revealed significantly higher mean pulmonary artery pressures in hypertensives. Right atrial diastolic pressure (v-wave) after matching for LVEDP was 4.8 +/- 0.5 mm Hg in hypertensives and 3.1 +/- 0.2 mm Hg in normotensives (p less than 0.05). In addition, at any given mean right atrial pressure hypertensives showed higher ANP levels than normotensives. These results demonstrate that hypertensives exhibit raised pressures in the pulmonary artery independent of left ventricular pressure load. The elevation in right atrial pressures and the steeper relationship between these pressures and ANP are a suitable explanation for raised ANP levels in hypertension. ANP in essential hypertension may represent a counterregulation against elevated pulmonary resistance. PMID- 2528024 TI - [Experience with teaching clinical electrocardiography at postgraduate training courses]. PMID- 2528025 TI - ["Dry" carbon dioxide baths in treating patients with myocardial infarction at the sanatorium stage of rehabilitation]. AB - A group of 75 patients with a history of myocardial infarction and repeated myocardial infarction were subjected to treatment involving dry carbon dioxide baths. Its results demonstrated normalization of IHD manifestations, such as coronary and heart failure, functional state of the cardiovascular system, its reserve potentialities and adaptation to physical effort. Under the influence of a course treatment with dry carbon dioxide baths hemodynamic parameters of cardiac output (cardiac and stroke volume) underwent favourable changes, rhythm slowed down, diastole became longer and systolic and diastolic arterial pressure decreased. The data obtained substantiate application of dry carbon dioxide baths in the recovery period to I-III functional classes patients with a history of myocardial infarction. PMID- 2528026 TI - [Rehabilitation treatment of patients with chronic bronchitis with initial manifestations of obstruction at a specialized department]. AB - Treatment of patients with chronic bronchitis with initial manifestations of obstruction maintains occupational fitness in all patients and decreases twice as much temporary invalidity, as compared to the control group of patients to whom rehabilitation measures were not applied. PMID- 2528027 TI - Chylothorax in Down's syndrome associated with hydrops fetalis. AB - Hydrops fetalis is an unusual manifestation of Down's syndrome and diagnosis of Down's syndrome in the hydropic newborn can be difficult as the clinical signs are masked by severe oedema. The baby may also be seriously ill and die soon after birth, before any investigative procedures could be done. Down's syndrome should be considered in foetuses or babies presented with pleural effusion and/or ascites. PMID- 2528028 TI - Resistance exercise program effects on abdominal function and physique. AB - The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of different abdominal exercise programs on abdominal muscular function and physique. Forty-five men and women (aged 18-26 yr) were randomly assigned to training using: (1) abdominal crunch (AC) weight machine; (2) steated incline (SI) weight machine; or (3) incline sit-up (ISU) exercise. Strength training occurred three times per week for 10 weeks. All groups improved in abdominal muscular strength and endurance. The ISU and AC group improved in muscular power (timed sit-up), while flexibility was maintained or increased in all groups. Abdominal skinfolds tended to increase and girths generally were unaltered by the abdominal exercise programs. These results suggest that abdominal weight machines or traditional incline sit-ups are effective in altering abdominal muscular function, but local abdominal exercise alone is unsatisfactory for reducing stomach skinfolds or girths. PMID- 2528029 TI - Cardiac dimensions and physical profile of masters level swimmers. AB - Physical characteristics, physical activity patterns and cardiac dimensions of 18 men and 13 women masters swimmers were measured. Subjects consisted of swimminers aged 30-78 years who were competing in a regional invitational swim meet. Anthropometric measures for height, weight, body surface area (BSA), and skinfold thickness indicated no deviation from age or gender characteristics found in the general population. The swimmers averaged 21.0 +/- 16.9 total years swimming, 11.0 +/- 9.6 years competitive swimming, and 5.3 +/- 2.4 hours of swimming per week. Subjective reporting of the swimmer's habitual physical activity patterns (PAI) revealed that both the men and women considered their levels as moderate to high. Resting heart rate and blood pressure were within the normal ranges. Left ventricular size was measured by both electrocardiography and echocardiography. Cardiac dimensions were significantly (p less than 0.05) larger in the men than the women. Left ventricular posterior wall thickness (LVPWT) of the women was 7.1 +/- 0.8 mm and 7.9 +/- 1.0 mm for the men. Left ventricular end diastolic diameter (LVEDD) was 43.5 +/- 3.8 mm for the women and 50.6 +/- 5.7 for the men, with the men showing evidence of borderline physiological hypertrophic dimensions. LVEDD was significantly correlated to BSA (0.66) while LVPWT was only moderately correlated to PAI (-0.46). Measures of cardiac dimensions were not significantly related to age. The results of this study indicate that moderately active male masters swimmers demonstrate a trend toward eccentric hypertrophy which is probably more related to body size than to age. PMID- 2528030 TI - Preischemic perfusion of hypertrophied myocardium with perfluorocarbons. AB - The increased susceptibility of hypertrophied myocardium to ischemic injury is well known. Hypertrophied hearts possess lower preischemic high energy phosphate stores and develop ischemic contracture following a shorter ischemic interval than normal hearts. The purpose of this study was to determine the ability of preischemic, arrested perfusion of the hypertrophied rat heart with oxygenated, glucose-containing perfluorocarbon cardioplegia (FC-43) to restore myocardial ATP stores to normal and prolong the duration of global ischemia prior to contracture initiation. Hearts from normal (NL) rats and hypertrophied hearts from spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) were subjected to 2 or 15 min of preischemic, arrested perfusion with FC-43 utilizing a modified Langendorff preparation. ATP was determined via HPLC and time to initiation of ischemic contracture was measured. Two minutes of FC-43 perfusion restored ATP in the SHR group to normal levels (P = NS compared to normal controls) and prolonged the time to initiation of ischemic contracture by 107%. Perfluorocarbons, with their unique oxygen-carrying properties, may be an ideal vehicle for intervention designed to enhance the tolerance of hypertrophied hearts to ischemia. PMID- 2528031 TI - In vitro photodynamic therapy of human lung cancer. AB - Photodynamic therapy (PDT) using a dihematoporphyrin ether (DHE) sensitizes malignant cells to damage by 630-nm light. This study investigated in vitro PDT sensitivity of human lung cancer cells (A549) and those factors which influence cell survival as determined by the colony formation assay. After incubation for 2, 4, or 6 hr with [DHE] of 2.5, 25, or 50 micrograms/ml, A549 received red light at dose rates of 0.27 or 0.09 mW/cm2 and energies of 0-250 mJ/cm2. Neither 630-nm light alone nor DHE alone affected cell survival. A dose rate of 0.27 mW/cm2 required less energy than 0.09 mW/cm2 for 90% cytotoxicity (180 mJ/cm2 vs 250 mJ/cm2, P less than 0.05). The energy required for 90% cytotoxicity with 25 micrograms/ml [DHE] was dependent on DHE incubation time (2 hr, 90% cytotoxicity not reached; 4 hr, 116 mJ/cm2; 6 hr, 69 mJ/cm2; P less than 0.05). In contrast, cellular [DHE] as measured by fluorescence, plateaued after 2 hr of incubation. Fluorescence microscopy revealed a time-dependent redistribution of fluorescence from the cell membrane to perinuclear and intracytoplasmic organelles. A 99% cytotoxicity required significantly less energy as [DHE] was increased (2.5 micrograms/ml, no cytotoxicity; 25 micrograms/ml, 243 mJ/cm2; 50 micrograms/ml, 111 mJ/cm2; P less than 0.05). Intracellular [DHE] was directly dependent on the incubating media [DHE] (2.5 micrograms/ml, 0.09 +/- 0.01 micrograms/10(6) cells; 25 micrograms/ml, 0.80 +/- 0.07 micrograms/10(6) cells; 50 micrograms/ml, 1.31 +/ 0.11 micrograms/10(6) cells; P less than 0.05). PDT cytotoxicity was inversely proportional to concentration of serum in the DHE media. These data illustrate that lung cancer in vitro is sensitive to PDT and is influenced by dose rate, energy input, and DHE environmental manipulations. These factors may be important in increasing the efficiency of PDT of thoracic malignancies in vivo. PMID- 2528032 TI - Recovery of elevated atrial natriuretic peptide in pressure-overload right heart failure. AB - Elevation of the plasma concentrations of immunoreactive atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) was observed in canine chronic right heart failure (RHF) secondary to right ventricular (RV) pressure overload. Pressure overload on the right heart was gradually increased using an inflatable cuff. The interval between banding and the onset of RHF was 152 +/- 52 days. Seventeen RHF dogs were produced and divided into Group I (n = 11) and Group II (n = 6). At the onset of RHF, Group I dogs were either sacrificed for study of the heart, or unbanded to allow recovery from RHF. The dogs in Group II were maintained in RHF for 3 additional months before being either sacrificed or unbanded. Following unbanding, the ANP level of Group I recovered from 108 +/- 36 (n = 11) to 20 +/- 6 pg/ml (n = 6) at 1 month and was maintained at 27 +/- 7 pg/ml (baseline, 21 +/- 5 pg/ml, n = 11) at 4 months. ANP levels of Group II declined from 165 +/- 55 (n = 6) to 87 +/- 2 pg/ml (n = 3) at 1 month and further decreased to 42 +/- 14 pg/ml (n = 3) 4 months after unbanding. Thus, compared to Group I, Group II had a high ANP level before unbanding and a delay in recovery of the ANP levels despite normalization of the right atrial pressure (RAP). Four months after release of pressure overload, the right atrial hypertrophy persisted in the unbanded dogs; however, Group I unbanded dogs showed a better reversal of the right atrial hypertrophy than Group II unbanded dogs.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528033 TI - Effects of collateral blood vessel ligation and electrical conditioning on blood flow in dog latissimus dorsi muscle. AB - Utilization of skeletal muscle as a myocardial substitute requires it to undergo two major modifications: mobilization to the site of action and adaptation to continuous activity. We have examined the effects of collateral blood vessel ligation, which would accompany mobilization, on blood flow in control and electrically conditioned canine latissimus dorsi (LD) muscle. Blood flows were measured at rest and during a vigorous isometric fatigue test. In 22 control muscles, electrical stimulation during the fatigue test resulted in a sevenfold increase in muscle blood flow (0.26 +/- 0.18 ml/g/min at rest, 1.69 +/- 0.84 ml/g/min during stimulation). No difference was detected in flow to distal and proximal portions of the muscle. In three muscles where collateral vessels were ligated immediately before measurement of blood flow, flow in the proximal portion of the muscle was not significantly different from control, but in the distal portion, stimulation failed to elicit an increase in flow (0.12 +/- 0.13 ml/g/min at rest, 0.16 +/- 0.07 ml/g/min during stimulation). In animals allowed a 3-week recovery period following collateral vessel ligation, stimulation induced increases in blood flow were detected but remained lower than control. Muscles which had been conditioned by continuous electrical stimulation for 6-7 weeks at 2 or 10 Hz generated less peak isometric tension than controls (peak tension = 4.5 +/- 1.7 kg control, 2.4 +/- 0.7 kg following 2 Hz conditioning, 1.6 +/- 0.4 kg following 10 Hz conditioning). However, these muscles demonstrated an increased resistance to fatigue.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528034 TI - Heart and unilateral lung transplantation in patients with end-stage cardiopulmonary disease and previous thoracic operations. AB - Orthotopic en bloc transplantation of the heart and one lung has been done in two patients with end-stage cardiopulmonary disease and a prior thoracic operation. The first patient had undergone right pulmonary thromboembolectomy with caval ligation 5 years earlier, and the second had had left lower lobectomy for bronchiectasis 15 years before the heart and contralateral lung transplantation. Surgical procedures followed the techniques that had been developed in animals. Transplantation of the unoperated contralateral lung made it possible to avoid dissection in the obliterated pleural space and to minimize bleeding, which simplified the procedure considerably. Dramatic reduction in pulmonary artery pressure and improved respiratory function allowed both patients to be weaned from cardiopulmonary bypass without problems. Although the first patient died of liver and renal failure soon after the operation, an intact cough reflex facilitated recovery in the second patient, who has been discharged with essentially normal respiratory function. This report describes heart and unilateral lung transplantation as a procedure of choice for patients with extensive pleural adhesions that made total cardiopulmonary replacement unfeasible. PMID- 2528035 TI - Deletion of c-ets1 and T3 gamma loci from the 11q- chromosome in the human monoblastic cell line U937. AB - The 11q- chromosome in the human monoblastic cell line U937 appears to be derived from an interstitial deletion in bands 11q21-23/24 or a translocation with an unknown chromosome. We show here by in situ hybridisation that this chromosome has lost the c-ets1 and T3 gamma loci. C-ets1 and T3 gamma sequences were not detected on any chromosomes besides the normal 11, indicating either that they were lost from the genome or that the chromosome to which they were translocated was not present in a high enough proportion of the cells to be detected by in situ hybridisation. No DNA rearrangements were found with three different restriction enzymes in the c-ets1, N-CAM, Thy-1 and c-sea genes detected by our probes. There was also no detectable rearrangement in the c-fms gene which was shown to be translocated from chromosome 5 to chromosome 1 in a subline of U937. The size of the c-fms and c-ets1 messages were normal. The possible significance of these findings is discussed. PMID- 2528036 TI - Effect of CD3 antibodies on cytotoxicity against leukemic cells resistant to activated killer cells. PMID- 2528037 TI - Coronary atherectomy: first 50 patients at the Mayo Clinic. AB - The safety and efficacy of a novel coronary atherectomy device were evaluated in the first 50 patients who underwent 53 such procedures at the Mayo Clinic. This treatment was used for atheromatous lesions in 27 patients and for restenosis after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty in 23; in 3 patients, it was repeated for recurrent stenosis (2) or a persistent intimal flap (1). Successful results, defined as a reduction of the stenosis by 40% or more in association with removal of tissue, absence of Q-wave infarction, and no need for a bypass surgical procedure during in-hospital follow-up, were achieved in 47 of the 53 procedures (89%). Atherectomy reduced the stenoses from a mean of 87% to 15%. Failures occurred in 6 of the 53 procedures (11%). Three of these patients subsequently underwent successful conventional balloon angioplasty, and three required surgical treatment. Six patients had minor complications--embolization of atheromatous material in two, intimal dissection in two, and side-branch occlusion and transient thrombosis in one each. Coronary atherectomy with use of this device promises to be a relatively safe and efficient treatment of coronary artery stenosis. PMID- 2528038 TI - Rehabilitation in multiple sclerosis. AB - Despite the lack of a definitive remedy for central nervous system demyelination in multiple sclerosis, certain manifestations of the disease are treatable. Recognition and identification of specific impairments, disabilities, and handicaps faced by the patient afford the physician the best opportunity to provide effective intervention. Impairments are ameliorated with difficulty; however, when comprehensive methods of rehabilitation are applied to the associated disabilities and handicaps, meaningful improvements can be achieved. The goal of rehabilitation in multiple sclerosis is to maximize the patient's physical, emotional, social, and vocational independence. Through the multidisciplinary efforts of numerous health-care workers in close cooperation with the patient and the family, this goal can be attained. PMID- 2528039 TI - New interventional technologies in cardiology. AB - If atherectomy procedures are found to be safe and effective for removal of plaque in human coronary arteries, they can be expected to provide an important alternative to balloon angioplasty for the treatment of many types of coronary lesions. In addition, many patients who are candidates for coronary artery bypass procedures could likely benefit from these less invasive procedures. Although atherectomy has a theoretic potential for reducing the rate of restenosis by removing the plaque rather than pushing it to the side, it is unlikely to eliminate the restenosis problem completely. A more important advantage of atherectomy may be the potential for successful treatment of lesions that are anatomically unsuitable for PTCA. Even though balloon catheter technology has evolved to the point that almost all lesions in the coronary anatomy can be successfully negotiated, approximately half the coronary patients who require invasive therapy in the United States are still undergoing open-heart bypass procedures. Thus, if atherectomy can expand the indications for interventional therapy to the types of lesions that are currently considered unsuitable for PTCA, the large number of patients who are currently unable to benefit from interventional catheterization techniques could be treated. With all the new devices under investigation, carefully controlled prospective randomized trials must be conducted once the developmental phases have been completed. Each new technology must be compared with the current state-of-the-art techniques of balloon angioplasty and coronary artery bypass operation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528040 TI - Ectopic pregnancy: current evaluation and treatment. AB - During the past 20 years, the diagnosis and treatment of ectopic pregnancy have improved considerably. With the current diagnostic modalities, patients at risk for ectopic pregnancy can be followed expectantly, and the diagnosis can be made within a few days of the time of anticipated menses. An enhanced understanding of the varied clinical course of ectopic pregnancy has been gained in the process, and greater individualization of patient care has been possible. Patients with spontaneous tubal abortion are being identified, and they may be better served by observation. The precise role and limitations of pharmacologic agents and the new surgical procedures are still being determined, but the ultimate goal with use of these modalities is an improved potential for fertility. PMID- 2528041 TI - [Mentally deficient patients and infection caused by hepatitis B virus. Prevalence in our area]. AB - To assess the prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in medium level mentally impaired patients (MIP), 620 MIP were evaluated; 181 of them had Down's syndrome and were active inmated of open institutions. At the time of the study, 28.7% had some positive serum marker of HBV infection, and 5.8% were virus carriers. The highest rate of seropositive individuals (48%) was found in male MIP with Down's syndrome. The rate of seropositive individuals was higher among those MIP who had attended special education centers than in those who had not. The tendency to remain as HBV carrier was higher in males with Down's syndrome. Our results confirm the need for prophylaxis in this population. PMID- 2528042 TI - [Contact dermatitis caused by isophorone diamine]. AB - Two patients with allergic contact dermatitis to IPD (Isophoronediamine), a hardener present in plastics industries are presented. Its high capacity of sensitization perhaps is not well known because it is not enough tested in our contact clinics. PMID- 2528043 TI - [Allergic dermatitis caused by gold. Description of a new case]. AB - A patient with true allergic contact dermatitis produced by gold is described. A lady suffered of a contact allergic vesiculous dermatitis in the proximal root of a finger provoked by her wedding ring, and also when worked in a metal factory touching all kinds of metals, including gold, an acute vesiculous eczema of hands and fingers appeared, promoting the study in our Service. For our knowledge this is the first well documented case of allergic contact dermatitis described in Spain. The specificity of the path test with sodium thiosulfatoaurate 0.5% in Pet was very useful for the study of this allergy. PMID- 2528044 TI - [Occupational skin diseases in rolling-mill workers in aluminum mills]. AB - Some data on frequency and nature of occupational dermatological diseases and stigmata, as well as the results of epicutaneous allergy tests done with occupational allergens with 234 rollers in the rolling mills of the aluminum mill in Razine, near Sibenik are presented. We have recorded occupational dermatose in 44 rollers (18.8%). In the hot rolling mill, sixty rollers have undergone the test and there was 16 recorded cases of occupational dermatose (26.6%). In the cold rolling mill, 174 rollers have undergone the test, and the occupational dematose was recorded in 28 rollers (16.1%). Positive epicutaneous allergic reaction on occupational allergens was found in 5 (2.1%) rollers. Occupational stigmata are somewhat more frequent in the hot rolling mill and their ratio is from 48-100%, whereas in the cold rolling mill they are somewhat less frequent ranging between 40.3 and 97.0% of rollers. PMID- 2528045 TI - Effects of streptozotocin-induced hyperglycemia on agonist-stimulated phosphatidylinositol turnover in rat aorta. AB - Altered vascular sensitivity and responsiveness has been previously described in various stages of experimental diabetes mellitus. Increases in membrane bound Ca2+ and intracellular calcium in diabetic aorta have been postulated to explain excitation-coupling dysfunction in diabetic vascular smooth muscle (VSM). Receptor-mediated phosphatidylinositol (PI) hydrolysis is known to activate VSM contraction; thus contractile changes in diabetic aorta could be functionally linked to abnormal PI turnover. To evaluate this possibility, parallel experiments were undertaken to study contractility and receptor-stimulated PI turnover with norepinephrine (NE), phenylephrine (PE), and serotonin (5-HT). At 7 and 28 days following injection of streptozotocin with production of the hyperglycemic state, aortas were harvested for contractile and PI turnover experiments. No differences in the contractile cumulative dose responses or receptor-mediated PI turnover were measured in the 7 day group. At 28 days, vascular supersensitivity and increased responsiveness were observed. PI hydrolysis in basal and agonist-stimulated aorta was, however, markedly decreased at 28 days. These findings suggest that mobilization and utilization of Ca2+ during contraction occur independently of receptor-stimulated PI hydrolysis in aorta from hyperglycemic rats. The duration of hyperglycemia also significantly effects contractility and PI turnover in rat aorta. PMID- 2528046 TI - Experimental ductus arteriosus: the relationships of atrial pressure, dilatation and flow with ANF secretion. AB - The design of the study was to determine whether an increased blood flow as seen in shunt lesions could serve as a stimulus for the secretion of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF). Since atrial pressure, flow, and dilatation are closely related, an experimental ductus arteriosus model was utilized, in which acute changes of flow are assumed not to dilate the left atrium. In six dogs, a Dacron graft was constructed between the main pulmonary artery and the innominate artery. Constricting and releasing the tape around the graft adjusted the amount of "ductal" shunting. The total pulmonary flow and the shunt flow were measured by electromagnetic-flow transducers around the aortic root and around the graft. Plasma ANF concentration was measured from both cardiac atria. The size of the left atrium was determined from echocardiographic measurements made from a short axis view. The total pulmonary flow varied between 1.2 and 5.8 1/min. The highest measured ANF was 396 pg/ml, and this was from the left atrium when the pressure was 18 mmHg, the highest left atrial pressure recorded. The highest right atrial pressure (5 mmHg) also correlated with the highest right-atrial level of ANF (366 pg/ml). The right atrial pressure had a significant correlation with plasma ANF concentration (R = 0.43, p less than 0.05). Pulmonary flow and plasma ANF concentration did not correlate; neither did left atrial size and ANF levels in 16 flow states where the size was measured. In the absence of atrial dilatation there was minimal stimulus for ANF secretion. A transient increase of left atrial pressure, without a concomitant significant atrial dilatation, did not serve as a significant stimulus for ANF secretion. PMID- 2528047 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide-renin-aldosterone system in cirrhosis of the liver: circadian study. AB - Plasma levels of immunoreactive atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), plasma renin activity (PRA), and plasma aldosterone (PA) were measured for an entire day at 6:00 am, 8:00 am, 12:00 pm, 6:00 pm, 8:00 pm, and 12:00 am in 6 healthy subjects, in 10 patients with compensated cirrhosis of the liver, and in 10 cirrhotics with ascites. The subjects, after synchronized standard life conditions lasting for 6 days were held in a clinostatic position during the study. The data were analyzed by the "cosinor" method. The results show significant circadian rhythms for the three biological variables in healthy subjects. In the compensated cirrhotic group, a circadian rhythm was detected only for PA. No rhythm was demonstrated in the ascitic patients. These data suggest that in cirrhosis of the liver, great variations in secretion rhythmicity for PRA and ANP are present, while maintaining the intrinsic PA rhythmicity, which is lost in patients with ascites. This progressive derangement in PA circadian rhythm in the ANP-PRA-PA system can be considered as an index of evolution in the natural history of cirrhosis of the liver. PMID- 2528048 TI - Identification of a Ca2+-ATPase in cerebellar Purkinje cells. AB - The expression of a sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR)-like Ca2+-ATPase was studied in the adult chicken cerebellum. A monoclonal antibody. CaS/C1-IgG, specific for the cardiac/slow-twitch skeletal muscle SR Ca2+-ATPase, was used as a probe of protein expression. An immunoblot analysis showed that CaS/C1-IgG recognized similar size polypeptides in adult chicken heart and cerebellum. CaS/C1-IgG recognized fragments of similar size after limited tryptic digestion of cardiac and cerebellar membranes. A two-dimensional alpha-chymotryptic peptide map analysis demonstrated that the cardiac and cerebellar Ca2+-ATPases were structurally very similar. Immunofluorescence microscopy localized the cerebellar Ca2+-ATPase to Purkinje cell bodies and dendritic trees. These results suggest that the well-known Ca2+ uptake system of skeletal and cardiac muscle SR has a remarkably similar counterpart in some neurons. PMID- 2528049 TI - [Our work experience based on the team form of work organization and remuneration]. PMID- 2528050 TI - Effect of heparinized irrigating solutions on patency of experimental microvascular anastomoses. AB - The effect of five different irrigating solutions on patency of four different types of microvascular anastomoses was studied. The solutions used were lactated Ringer's without heparin and four lactated Ringer's solutions with varying concentrations of heparin ranging from 10,000 units/liter to 100,000 units/liter. These were tested on four different anastomotic models in the rat: 1) end-to-end femoral arterial anastomosis; 2) end-to-side arterial bypass graft; 3) end-to-end venous anastomosis; and 4) end-to-side venous bypass graft. There were statistically significant differences in patency rates among the solutions only in the end-to-end venous anastomosis group. In these, significantly higher patency was achieved with heparinized lactated Ringer's solution at 20,000 units/liter. The use of higher concentrations of heparin in these solutions resulted in decreasing patency rates and appears to be contraindicated. PMID- 2528051 TI - Mortality and morbidity in transsexual patients with cross-gender hormone treatment. AB - Sex steroid treatment is associated with side effects. The number of deaths and morbidity cases in 425 transsexual patients treated with cross-gender hormones were evaluated retrospectively and compared with the expected number in a similar reference group of the population. The number of deaths in male-to-female transsexuals was five times the number expected, due to increased numbers of suicide and death of unknown cause. Combined treatment with estrogen and cyproterone acetate in 303 male-to-female transsexuals was associated with a 45 fold increase of thromboembolic events, hyperprolactinemia (400-fold), depressive mood changes (15-fold), and transient elevation of liver enzymes. Androgen treatment in 122 female-to-male transsexuals was associated with weight increase greater than 10% (17.2%) and acne (12.3%). In both groups persistent liver enzyme abnormalities could be attributed to other causes than sex steroids (hepatitis B and alcohol abuse). Much of the morbidity was minor and reversible with appropriate treatment or temporary discontinuation of hormone treatment. Thus, the dilemma of prescribing cross gender hormones in view of the needs of these patients is not resolved. Explanation of possible side effects and careful clinical judgment remain the cornerstone of the clinical decision to prescribe cross-gender hormones. Furthermore, follow up of this relatively young population to disclose long-term side effects and to elucidate the association of sex steroids with coronary heart disease, as well as efforts to reduce the risk of thromboembolic events, are required. PMID- 2528052 TI - Primary dapsone chemoprophylaxis for Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia in immunocompromised patients infected with the human immunodeficiency virus. AB - During a 12-month period from August 1, 1986 to July 31, 1987, a study of primary chemoprophylaxis with dapsone for Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia was undertaken in immunodeficient patients who were infected with the human immunodeficiency virus. One attack of P. carinii pneumonia occurred among 16 patients who received chemoprophylaxis immediately that a T-helper (CD4) lymphocyte count of less than 0.2 x 10(9)/L was recorded compared with 16 attacks in the historical control group of 46 similar patients who did not receive chemoprophylaxis (log-rank test, chi 2(1) = 3.72; P = 0.05). PMID- 2528053 TI - [Carnitine and Down's syndrome]. AB - The present study revealed a degree of carnitine deficiency in a large percentage of Down's syndrome children. In fact below average carnitine levels were noted in 39.1% of the cases examined with severe deficiency in 4. On the basis of these data supplementary carnitine is recommended in cases of deficiency particularly in view of the value of carnitine in the prevention of cell aging. PMID- 2528054 TI - [Vitamin C in children with trisomy 21]. AB - The present study revealed ascorbic acid deficiency in the blood of many children with Down's syndrome. It also revealed a fairly definite connection between Vitamin C deficiency and diet in these patients and a similar link between ascorbic acid deficiency and this incidence of infections. Where necessary the prescription of Vitamin C for the prevention and treatment of recurring infection is therefore recommended, bearing in mind the valuable antioxidant properties of ascorbic acid that can be exploited in combating cell deterioration. PMID- 2528055 TI - Molecular cloning, nucleotide sequence, and abscisic acid induction of a suberization-associated highly anionic peroxidase. AB - A highly anionic peroxidase induced in suberizing cells was suggested to be the key enzyme involved in polymerization of phenolic monomers to generate the aromatic matrix of suberin. The enzyme encoded by a potato cDNA was found to be highly homologous to the anionic peroxidase induced in suberizing tomato fruit. A tomato genomic library was screened using the potato anionic peroxidase cDNA and one genomic clone was isolated that contained two tandemly oriented anionic peroxidase genes. These genes were sequenced and were 96% and 87% identical to the mRNA for potato anionic peroxidase. Both genes consist of three exons with the relative positions of their two introns being conserved between the two genes. Primer extension analysis showed that only one of the genes is expressed in the periderm of 3 day wound-healed tomato fruits. Southern blot analyses suggested that there are two copies each of the two highly homologous genes per haploid genome in both potato and tomato. Abscisic acid (ABA) induced the accumulation of the anionic peroxidase transcripts in potato and tomato callus tissues. Northern blots showed that peroxidase mRNA was detectable at 2 days and was maximal at 8 days after transfer of potato callus to solid agar media containing 10(-4) M ABA. The transcripts induced by ABA in both potato and tomato callus were identical in size to those induced in wound-healing potato tuber and tomato fruit. The anionic peroxidase peptide was detected in extracts of potato callus grown on the ABA-containing media by western blot analysis. The results support the suggestion that stimulation of suberization by ABA involves the induction of the highly anionic peroxidase. PMID- 2528056 TI - Restriction analysis of lambda EMBL3 background recombinants: occurrence of lambda phages carrying a head to tail oriented left arm DNA sequence. AB - Eight representative recombinant background clones of lambda EMBL3 were analysed using KpnI, BamHI, SalI, EcoRI and HindIII digestion. We found that lambda EMBL3 carries its own left arm in the BamHI cloning site. In the way, recombinant molecules were found to be generated which can grow on Escherichia coli strain NM539. In all cases analysed, the left arm DNA was inserted in a head to tail orientation. Seven clones carried a restored BamHI site at the cos site-BamHI site connection. In the region where the inserted left arm and the right arm were ligated, BamHI cloning produces a large palindromic sequence consisting of two polylinkers. This BamHI site was incompletely cleaved in all cases analysed. We assume that a part of the lambda DNA molecule in this region shows a cruciform structure prohibiting recognition or cleavage of this site by restriction endonuclease BamHI. PMID- 2528057 TI - Activity of thymidylate synthetase and its inhibition by 5-fluorouracil in highly enzyme-overproducing cells resistant to 10-propargyl-5,8-dideazafolate. AB - Mouse FM3A mammary adenocarcinoma cells exposed to the specific thymidylate synthetase (TS) inhibitor 10-propargyl-5,8-dideazafolate (PDF) responded by overproducing TS up to 200-fold. In the absence of inhibitor, the elevation of TS levels decayed with a half-life of about 4 weeks. Southern blot analysis of restricted DNA from the PDF-resistant cells using a TS-specific probe showed that the TS gene was amplified to the same extent as enzyme levels. The PDF-resistant cells showed moderate cross-resistance to growth inhibition by 5-fluoro-2' deoxyuridine, which increased with TS overproduction, but cross-resistance to 5 fluorouracil (FUra) was less (2- to 3-fold) and did not change with increased TS levels. TS activity, measured as release of tritium from [5-3H]2'-deoxyuridine, was no higher in the intact PDF-resistant cells than in wild-type cells. Inhibition of TS activity by FUra in the wild-type cells was accompanied by a proportional decrease in the amount of free TS, presumably due to formation of the tight binding complex of TS with 5-fluoro-2'-deoxyuridylate and 5,10' methylenetetrahydrofolate. However, in the PDF-resistant cells, most the TS was still in the free form even though TS activity was substantially (85-90%) inhibited. Addition of folinic acid did not change either the sensitivity of the cells to FUra or the rates of tritium release in the cells having overproduced TS. These results are consistent with compartmentalization of TS, possibly in a multienzyme complex. PMID- 2528058 TI - Morphological, immunological and biochemical characterization of purified transverse tubule membranes isolated from rabbit skeletal muscle. AB - A microsomal fraction consisting of membranes of transverse tubule origin has been purified by a modification of the calcium-loading procedure initially described by Rosemblatt et al. (J Biol Chem 256:8140-8, 1981). Enzymatic analysis of this fraction shows an enrichment of the vesicles in the Mg++ ATPase (basal) activity characteristic of the T-tubules and an absent or very low Ca++-dependent ATPase activity. Stereological analysis of freeze fracture replica of the membranes in the purified fraction indicates that they have a very low density of particles in their P faces and lack the structural manifestation of the caveolae typical of the sarcolemma. Immunological analysis performed with monoclonal antibodies prepared against purified T-tubule and sarcoplasmic reticulum membranes define some T-tubule specific antigens and confirm the morphological and biochemical data regarding the origin and purity of the T-tubule preparation. PMID- 2528059 TI - Mevalonate-metabolizing enzymes in Arachis hypogaea. AB - The activities of the mevalonate metabolizing enzymes-HMG-CoA reductase, mevalonate kinase, mevalonate phosphokinase and mevalonate pyrophosphate decarboxylase -were assayed with the respective substrates in green seedlings of Arachis hypogaea. MVAPP decarboxylase is the rate-limiting step among these enzymes and is inhibited by phenolic acids. Its activity in the seedlings was found to decrease in the absence of light and on treatment with abscisic acid. These results suggest that regulation of isoprene pathway in groundnut seedlings may occur at the level of mevalonate decarboxylation. PMID- 2528060 TI - [45 kDa fragment of the kinesin molecule possesses high ATPase activity and binds to microtubules]. AB - Kinesin is a mechano-chemical ATPase capable to move particles along microtubules and microtubules along the solid substrate. Molecule of bovine brain kinesin is a heterotetrameric unit consisting of two heavy (120 kDa) and two light (62 kDa) chains. We used limited proteolysis to study the location of the functional sites on the kinesin molecule. Chymotrypsin cleavage produced a stable 45 kDa fragment of the heavy chain which was purified from the digest using FPLC chromatography on a Superose 12 column. 45 kDa fragment contained both a microtubule-binding site and a ATPase site of the kinesin molecule. Cleavage of the 45 kDa fragment from the rest of the heavy chain significantly activated its ATPase activity. However, this activity remained fully dependent on microtubules. We suggest that the chymotrypsin cleavage uncouple ATPase activity of kinesin (found in the 45 kDa fragment) from its translocator activity (which, probably, required the presence of other parts of the molecule). PMID- 2528061 TI - A monoclonal antigen-binding T cell immunoprotein: antigenic relatedness to T cell receptor beta chain FR1 V and J peptide segments: physicochemical distinctiveness from classical immunoglobulins and T cell receptor heterodimers. AB - The monoclonal murine T cell hybridoma, 51H7D, was previously shown to bind the arsazobenzene hapten and to produce a soluble antigen-binding molecule. In this paper we characterize this antigen-binding immunoprotein for its relationship to known T cell receptors serologically, using antibodies specific for variable region framework, or joining region peptides predicted from gene sequence and by biochemical means. The 51H7D cell expresses a protein with subunit size of approximately 31,000, that reacts antigenically with affinity-purified antibodies directed against synthetic first framework and joining segment peptides, corresponding to the gene sequence of the T cell receptor beta chain, YT35. This molecule does not react with affinity-purified antibodies directed against murine immunoglobulin, framework 1 sequences of alpha and gamma T cell receptors, or with antibodies against synthetic heavy chain joining segments. The subunit of mol. wt. 31,000 can form higher aggregates, notably in the mol. wt range of 60,000-70,000, depending upon extraction conditions. The soluble form of the antigen-binding molecule bears the J beta cross-reactive determinant and occurs predominantly as a charge restricted molecular species of approximate mol. wt 60,000-70,000. The purified molecule has a blocked N-terminus, but quantitative statistical analysis of its amino acid composition indicates a closer relatedness to T cell receptor beta chains and other antigen-binding T cell products, than it has to alpha, gamma or delta TCR chains. No evidence for more than one type of polypeptide chain was found and the polymerization is not dependent upon the formation of disulfide bonds. These studies raise the possibility that antigen binding soluble T cell molecules might belong to a new family of immunoproteins, that is related to, but distinct from, classical immunoglobulins and alpha beta or gamma delta heterodimers. PMID- 2528062 TI - Rheumatoid factor and immune complexes. PMID- 2528063 TI - The specificity and reactivity of rheumatoid factors with human IgG. PMID- 2528064 TI - Epistasis, photoreactivation and mutagen sensitivity of DNA repair mutants upr-1 and mus-26 in Neurospora crassa. AB - Double mutants were constructed combining mus-26, formerly designated uvs-(SA3B), with other UV-sensitive mutants. Tests of sensitivity of these double mutants to UV and to chemical mutagens revealed that mus-26 and upr-1 belong to the same epistatic group. The UV dose-response curve of mus-26 showed a characteristic plateau in the range of 100-200 J/m2. The same characteristic was also shown in the dose-response curves of upr-1 and the double mutant, upr-1 mus-26. Photoreactivation of UV damage in mus-26, upr-1 and upr-1 mus-26 was defective but not null. Assays were made of the reversion rate of ad-8 in strains that also carried UV-sensitive mutations. The reversion frequencies of the strains with upr 1 and upr-1 mus-26 were very low for the UV dose range below 300 J/m2, similarly to mus-26. Previously reported homozygous sterility of mus-26 was not caused by the mus-26 locus itself, and fertile strains were obtained among progeny. The results of this study suggest that mus-26 and upr-1 have similar properties in DNA repair. PMID- 2528065 TI - An oligonucleotide probe specific for Onchocerca volvulus. AB - A genomic DNA library of a Liberian strain of Onchocerca volvulus was prepared in the vector bacteriophage lambda gt10. The library was differentially screened by hybridisation with radiolabelled total DNA from the homologous parasite, two heterologous Onchocerca parasites (Onchocerca gibsoni and Onchocerca gutturosa) and human liver cells. A clone (C1A1) was isolated whose binding to O. volvulus DNA was at least 50 times stronger than to the other parasite DNA samples. No binding was observed with human DNA. The insert of C1A1 was subcloned into the filamentous phage vector M13 mp18 and sequenced. Two oligonucleotides, each corresponding to a unique region of 60 nucleotides (out of a total of 154) were synthesised and examined for hybridisation with three different geographical isolates of O. volvulus (including forest and savannah strains) and six other Onchocerca spp. One of the oligonucleotides (C1A1-2) was found to hybridise to the three O. volvulus isolates with an intensity in the region of 300 times greater than to any other Onchocerca spp. Since the other species include the two which may be most closely related to O. volvulus, i.e., O. gibsoni and Onchocerca ochengi, it is concluded that C1A1-2 is likely to represent a truly species specific probe. PMID- 2528066 TI - A gene expressed only in serum-resistant variants of Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense. AB - The human infective African trypanosomes are host range variants of Trypanosoma brucei which are resistant to a lytic component in primate serum. T. b. rhodesiense occurs both as a form sensitive to lysis by normal human serum and as a form resistant to this lysis. Switching from one phenotype to the other has been observed in both directions. In the cloned T. b. rhodesiense ETAR1 repertoire we have detected 1.5-kb mRNAs only present in the resistant forms. In T. b. gambiense, which always occurs as a normal human serum-resistant form, no such transcript could be detected, indicating that another mechanism of resistance is involved here. Starting from an independent non-cloned T. b. rhodesiense population isolated from an infected patient, both resistant and sensitive trypanosomes have been prepared. Northern blot analysis of the total RNA prepared from these populations has revealed again the differential occurrence of the resistance-specific transcript, indicating that we are dealing with a general phenomenon associated with serum resistance in T. b. rhodesiense. As expected, Southern blot analyses have demonstrated that both serum-resistant and serum-sensitive forms of T. b. rhodesiense contain the gene coding for this transcript. PMID- 2528067 TI - Genetic prediction of nonresponse to hepatitis B vaccine. AB - In previous studies of the antibody response to hepatitis B vaccine in 598 subjects who received a full course of vaccination, we observed a bimodal response, with about 14 percent producing less than approximately 1000 radioimmunoassay (RIA) units. An analysis of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) HLA and complement types of 20 of the subjects with the lowest responses indicated a greater-than-expected number of homozygotes for the extended or fixed MHC haplotype [HLA-B8, SC01, DR3]. This finding suggested that the lack of a normal response was a recessive MHC-linked trait. In this study, we prospectively vaccinated five homozygotes and nine heterozygotes for this haplotype in the expectation that the homozygotes would produce much lower levels of antibody than the heterozygotes. When the antibody response was assessed two months after the third injection, four of the five homozygotes had produced very low levels (approximately 1000 units or less) of antibody (mean, 467 RIA units; range, less than 8 to 1266), whereas all nine heterozygotes produced more than 2500 RIA units (mean, 15,608; range, 2655 to 28,900) (P less than 0.01). We conclude that the usual response to hepatitis B surface antigen is due to the presence of a dominant immune-response gene in the MHC and that a low response is due to the absence of such a gene and the presence on both chromosomes of MHC haplotypes (such as [HLA-B8, SC01, DR3]) that indicate such a response. PMID- 2528068 TI - The effects of variations in human immune-response genes. PMID- 2528069 TI - Homme rouge and the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. PMID- 2528070 TI - Phenotypic differences between alpha beta versus beta T-cell receptor transgenic mice undergoing negative selection. AB - T-cell differentiation in the thymus is thought to involve a progression from the CD4-CD8- phenotype through CD4+CD8+ intermediates to mature CD4+ or CD8+ cells. There is evidence that during this process T cells bearing receptors potentially reactive to 'self' are deleted by a process termed 'negative selection' One example of this process occurs in mice carrying polymorphic Mls antigens, against which a detectable proportion of T cells are autoreactive. These mice show clonal deletion of thymic and peripheral T-cell subsets that express the autoreactive V beta 3 segment of the T-cell antigen receptor, but at most a two-fold depletion of thymic cells at the CD4+CD8+ stage. By contrast, transgenic mice bearing both alpha and beta chain genes encoding autoreactive receptors recognizing other ligands, show severe depletion of CD4+CD8+ thymocytes as well, suggesting that negative selection occurs much earlier. We report here the Mls 2a/3a mediated elimination of T cells expressing a transgene encoded V beta 3-segment, in T-cell receptor alpha/beta and beta-transgenic mice. Severe depletion of CD4+CD8+ thymocytes is seen only in the alpha/beta chain transgenic mice, whereas both strains delete mature V beta 3 bearing CD4+ and CD8+ T cells efficiently. We conclude that severe CD4+CD8+ thymocyte deletion in alpha/beta transgenic mice results from the premature expression of both receptor chains, and does not reflect a difference in the timing or mechanism of negative selection for Mls antigens as against the allo- and MHC class 1-restricted antigens used in the other studies. PMID- 2528071 TI - T-cell receptor delta-chain can substitute for alpha to form a beta delta heterodimer. AB - Specific monoclonal antibodies have made possible the identification of two T cell antigen receptor (TCR) heterodimers, alpha beta TCR and gamma delta TCR. Formation of these receptors is largely separated by the preferential pairing of alpha-TCR with beta and gamma-TCR with delta, the sequential rearrangement and expression of the TCR loci during thymic development and the deletion of the delta-loci either prior to or concomitant with alpha-rearrangement in alpha beta TCR cells. Here we show that delta-TCR can substitute for alpha in pairing with beta to form a beta delta heterodimer. This receptor is expressed on the cell surface of the T-leukaemia cell line DND41 as analysed with beta- and delta specific monoclonal antibodies. We suggest that a variety of factors including, for example, the deletion of the delta-TCR loci, can now be understood as exclusion mechanisms operating to prevent not only the formation of gamma delta receptors, but also of beta delta T-cell receptors, thereby promoting the numerically dominant alpha beta TCR lineage. Nevertheless, some developing T cells that do not rearrange the alpha-loci may express the beta delta TCR as described here. PMID- 2528072 TI - Qa-1 restricted recognition of foreign antigen by a gamma delta T-cell hybridoma. AB - Distinct T-lymphocyte subsets recognize antigens in conjunction with different classes of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) glycoproteins using the T-cell receptor (TCR), a disulphide-linked heterodimer associated with the CD3 complex on the cell surface. In general, class I and class II MHC products provide a context for the recognition of foreign antigens by CD8+ and CD4+ T cells, respectively. This recognition seems to be largely dependent on alpha beta TCR heterodimers, whereas the function of the second gamma delta TCR, present on a minor subpopulation of cells, is still unknown. In the mouse, the existence of six cell-surface MHC class I products (K, D, L, Qa-1, Qa-2 and Tla) has been firmly established by serological, biochemical and genetic evidence. So far, only the most polymorphic of them, K, D and L ('classical' class I) have been reported as restriction elements for T-cell recognition of foreign antigens. The function of the relatively invariant Qa and Tla molecules remains unknown. We have made a T-helper cell hybridoma clone (DGT3) that recognizes synthetic copolymer poly(Glu50Tyr50) in the context of Qa-1 cell surface product, and has a CD4-CD8- phenotype. Our studies indicate that DGT3 cells express the gamma delta TCR on the cell surface, implicating its role in Qa-1-restricted antigen recognition. This is the first evidence that T cells can recognize foreign antigen in association with self Qa product, confirming that Qa molecules not only topologically, but also functionally, belong to the MHC. PMID- 2528073 TI - Two tobacco DNA-binding proteins with homology to the nuclear factor CREB. AB - The 35S promoter of the cauliflower mosaic virus (CaMV) contains a tandem repeat of the sequence TGACG in the region -83 to -63. This 21-base pair (bp) sequence, called as-1, is involved in root expression of the 35S promoter. When inserted in a promoter of a gene expressed specifically in photosynthetic tissues, as-1 confers high level expression in roots. We have described a factor, ASF-1, that binds specifically to as-1 in vitro. There is a good correlation between ASF-1 binding affinity to as-1 related sequences in vitro and the function of these sequences in vivo. These results strongly suggest that ASF-1 is responsible for the function of as-1. Here we report the isolation of tobacco complementary DNA clones encoding two TGACG-sequence-specific binding-proteins (TGA1a and TGA1b). Sequence analysis of the cDNA clones shows that both proteins contain a basic region that shows high homology to a stretch of basic amino acids in the nuclear factors CREB, GCN4, and c-Jun to a 'leucine-zipper' region. On the basis of binding specificity we propose TGA1a to be a good candidate for ASF-1. PMID- 2528074 TI - Lipoprotein(a). Thrombogenesis linked to atherogenesis at last? PMID- 2528075 TI - Distinct antigen receptor repertoires of two classes of murine epithelium associated T cells. AB - T lymphocytes are found not only as recirculating cells in the lymphoid system, but also as immobile cells in certain epithelia. T-cell antigen receptors (TCR) of both alpha/beta and gamma/delta-heterodimer subtypes can exhibit an extremely high degree of diversity. The diversity of alpha/beta TCRs derives from the use of a large number of variable (V) gene segments, as well as junctional diversity generated during rearrangement of these segments, whereas the diversity of gamma/delta TCRs derives largely from junctional elements, with a smaller contribution from a limited number of V gene segments. Many T cells in the epidermal and intestinal epithelia of mice express TCR composed of gamma/delta heterodimers. We demonstrate here that gamma/delta TCRs of T cells in both these tissues are restricted in V gene usage, with different elements predominating. The TCR junctional diversity of epidermal T cells, however, is extremely limited, whereas that of intestinal T cells is extremely diverse. The distinctive features of these two populations suggest that they develop or are selected differently for particular tissue-specific functions. PMID- 2528076 TI - Role of histamine receptor in mesencephalic nucleus dorsalis raphe in cardiovascular regulation. AB - The effects of microinjection of histamine and its antagonists into mesencephalic nucleus dorsalis raphe, were investigated on mean arterial pressure and heart rate in cats to elucidate the nature and role of histaminergic receptors in cardiovascular regulation. Microinjection of histamine (5 and 10 micrograms) into nucleus dorsalis raphe elicited both inhibitory and excitatory cardiovascular responses respectively. On the other hand, microinjection of H2-receptor blocker, cimetidine (10 micrograms) resulted in hypertension and tachycardia while H1 receptor antagonist, mepyramine (10 micrograms) microinjection evoked hypotension and bradycardia. Furthermore, local pretreatment with cimetidine and mepyramine blocked the inhibitory and excitatory cardiovascular responses of graded doses of histamine microinjection. These H1 and H2 receptors are localized in nucleus dorsalis raphe since microinjection of histamine into adjoining neural structures did not evoke any cardiovascular change. Furthermore, both the inhibitory and excitatory cardiovascular responses to histamine microinjection could not be observed in animals with spinal cord transection and in animals pretreated with p chlorophenylalanine while they could be observed in bilateral cervical vagotomized animals. Thus, it appears that these cardiovascular responses to microinjection of histamine into nucleus dorsalis raphe, are due to modulation of serotonergic bulbospinal influence on sympathetic preganglionic neurones in the spinal cord. Moreover, the excitatory cardiovascular responses of high dose of histamine (10 micrograms) seem to result from a local release of noradrenaline since they were blocked by prior microinjection of guanethidine and piperoxan into nucleus dorsalis raphe. A release of noradrenaline in turn, modulates the activity of the neurones of the nucleus by acting on alpha adrenoceptors and thereby alters the activity of sympathetic preganglionic neurones.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528077 TI - A Dutch family with hereditary protein S deficiency. AB - Protein S, a vitamin K dependent factor, acts as a cofactor for activated protein C in preventing coagulation and stimulating fibrinolysis. Hereditary protein S deficiency has been reported to be an autosomal dominant disorder, associated with an increased risk for developing thrombosis in heterozygotes. Here we present a large Dutch family with familial thrombophilia based on hereditary protein S deficiency. Besides the proband, 27 individuals were tested. Of these, four had had complaints of thromboembolic events. Three of them had protein S levels below the limits of normal, and were considered to be heterozygous for protein S deficiency. Ten others who were also found to be heterozygotes had had no manifestations. Seven of them were under 15 years of age at the time of the investigation. It is uncommon for heterozygotes with protein S deficiency to develop thrombosis before that age, although there have been a few reports. Following these observations, some remarks are made on how to make the laboratory diagnosis of the deficiency, on when to perform family choice of analysis, and on the consequences for therapy. PMID- 2528078 TI - Pseudogout attacks after successful treatment of hyperparathyroidism. AB - Two patients developed pseudogout attacks during treatment for hyperparathyroidism, the first shortly after surgery and the second during medical treatment of her hypercalcaemia. From our observations in these patients and from data in the literature, we conclude that pseudogout attacks following parathyroidectomy in patients with chondrocalcinosis are caused by the decrease in the serum calcium levels and not by the major surgical procedure itself. PMID- 2528079 TI - Transluminal angioplasty of intracerebral vessels for cerebral arterial spasm: reversal of neurological deficits after delayed treatment. AB - We used intracerebral transluminal angioplasty to treat two episodes of symptomatic vasospasm in a patient recovering from an aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage. The procedures were performed after medical therapies, intravascular volume expansion, and induced arterial hypertension failed to alleviate the patient's neurological condition. The first angioplasty, confined to the right middle cerebral and distal internal carotid arteries, took place more than 30 hours after the onset of left hemiplegia. Despite the subsequent discovery of a small parietal lobe infarct, it brought about a marked improvement in left motor function and may have also limited the spread of necrotic damage. The second angioplasty was necessitated when stenotic segments of the basilar and posterior cerebral arteries caused a 24-hour decline in the patient's mental status. Although delayed in relation to the onset of symptoms, it successfully reversed the patient's comatose state. The use of transluminal angioplasty for vasospasm is generally limited to cases where it can be performed shortly after the onset of neurological symptoms; delaying the procedure increases the risk of hemorrhage from reperfused areas of infarction. Our experience with this patient demonstrates that delayed angioplasty can improve vascular flow to ischemic territory, even after infarction, without complications and with resultant improvement in neurological function. PMID- 2528080 TI - Anatomical and affinity state comparisons between dopamine D1 and D2 receptors in the rat central nervous system. AB - The anatomical distributions and affinity states of dopamine D1 and D2 receptors were compared in the rat central nervous system using quantitative autoradiography. [3H]SCH23390 and [3H]spiperone (in the presence of 100 nM mianserin) were used to label the D1 and D2 receptors, respectively. The densities of D1 and D2 receptors displayed a positive correlation among 21 brain regions (Pearson correlation coefficient, r = 0.80, P less than 0.001). The affinity states for the D1 and D2 receptors were found to be quite different from each other, and different from the results obtained by others using homogenate preparations. Both the D1 and D2 receptors were best modeled using a two-state model. In the absence of exogenous guanine nucleotides and using the nonselective agonist dopamine as the competitor, the D1 receptor was primarily in a low affinity agonist state (RH = 21 +/- 6%), whereas the D2 receptor was primarily in the high affinity agonist state (RH = 77 +/- 3%). In the presence of 10 microM guanylyl-imidodiphosphate or guanosine-5'-O-(2-thiophosphate) both the D1 and the D2 receptor were completely in a low affinity agonist state (RL = 100%). These affinity states were found both in the nucleus accumbens and olfactory tubercle using dopamine as the competitor and in the striatum using selective D1 or D2 agonists as competitors. Receptor occupancy of the D2 receptor with either an agonist or antagonist did not alter the affinity states of the D1 receptor, and conversely, receptor occupancy of the D1 receptor did not alter the affinity states of the D2 receptor. The correlation between densities of D1 and D2 receptors provides an anatomical framework for evaluating behavioral and electrophysiological evidence of an interaction between the two dopamine receptor subtypes. This interaction does not appear to be due to a sharing or coupling of G-proteins in such a way that binding to one dopamine receptor subtype alters the affinity state of the other receptor subtype. The differences between dopamine receptor distributions described by labeled agonists and antagonists may be due in part to differences in their affinity states. The low proportion of high affinity state D1 receptors may explain some of the difficulties in assigning specific behavioral roles to the D1 receptor. PMID- 2528081 TI - Protection against 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine-induced parkinsonism by the catecholamine uptake inhibitor nomifensine: behavioral analysis in monkeys with partial striatal dopamine depletions. AB - The neurotoxic effects of 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine on dopamine neurons in monkeys were found to be reduced when the catecholamine uptake inhibitor nomifensine was administered during several weeks after 1-methyl 4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine. The obtained protection was partial, leading to 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine-induced changes in dopamine levels to 8, 16, 52 and 59% of control values in the caudate nucleus and to 10, 16, 101 and 99% in the putamen of four animals, respectively. At the same doses, 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine alone is known to deplete striatal dopamine levels to 0.5-7% of control values. Extra-nigrostriatal monoamine neurons were generally well protected by nomifensine. Neurological examinations revealed modest hypokinesia for a maximum of 10 days after 1-methyl-4-phenyl 1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine in the two more severely affected animals. Reaction times of arm and eye movements were measured in a formal task in two of the monkeys having a moderate and a more important depletion of striatal dopamine, respectively. Only moderate impairments were seen during the initial 2 weeks after 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine in both animals. All parameters recovered to control levels thereafter. At 3.5 and 5.5 months after 1 methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine, task performance was significantly better than control. The speed of arm movement remained largely unaffected during all periods of experimentation. Spontaneous eye movements were reduced in frequency and amplitude during the initial 1-2 weeks after 1-methyl-4-phenyl 1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine, and recovered completely thereafter. These data suggest a substantial reduction of neurotoxicity of 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6 tetrahydropyridine by inhibition of catecholamine uptake. Particularly striking was the absence of major and permanent impairments in behavioral tests in which monkeys treated with 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine alone were severely impaired. These results may warrant the development of new catecholamine uptake inhibitors for protecting nigrostriatal dopamine neurons against potential environmental toxins. PMID- 2528082 TI - [Different prevalence of some indices of cardiac and vascular impairment in normal weight and obese patients with essential arterial hypertension]. AB - Certain physiopathological features that differentiate essential arterial hypertension in normal weight and obese patients are recalled. The results of a retrospective study carried out in 293 hypertensive patients admitted to the Clinic in recent years are reported with a view to evaluating the prevalence of certain parameters (ischaemic cardiopathy, left ventricular hypertrophy, renal, vasculo-cerebral and retinal impairment) in patients subdivided into two groups: normal weight and obese. The study showed in the first group a higher prevalence of signs of ischaemic cardiopathy; in the second a higher prevalence of left ventricular hypertrophy. This difference is accentuated in the subgroup of smokers as regards ischaemic cardiopathy and in non-smokers as regards left ventricular hypertrophy. The possible explanations for this different behaviour are discussed. PMID- 2528083 TI - [The so-called spontaneous hematoma of the anterior rectus abdominis reproducing syndromes of acute surgical abdomen]. AB - Personal experience of spontaneous haematoma on the anterior straight muscles of the abdomen over 15 years is reported. True spontaneous haematoma on the anterior straight muscles of the abdomen are extremely rare, even exceptional and must be distinguished from those haematomas, improperly called spontaneous that are, in fact, clearly traumatic in origin. Personal observation suggests that true spontaneous haematoma is the expression of a pathological rupture of the muscle and/or the epigastric blood vessels that in its turn reflects a serious basic pathology. PMID- 2528084 TI - [Development of the surgical technics in abdominoplasty]. AB - The entire literature on abdominoplasty is reviewed with a description of the various techniques developed since the introduction of the operation. PMID- 2528085 TI - Vaccination against hepatitis B in children and adolescent patients on dialysis. AB - Twenty-one children and adolescent patients, 2-19 years of age, on renal replacement therapy were immunised at monthly intervals with three doses of 20 micrograms hepatitis B vaccine (Heptavax B, Merck Sharp & Dohme). In the absence of seroconversion, vaccination was continued with monthly doses of 40 micrograms hepatitis B vaccine until antibody to hepatitis B surface antigen became positive. The rate of seroconversion increased from 33.3% (7 of 21) to 76.1% (16 of 21) and 85.6% (18 of 21) with three, four and five vaccine injections respectively. Three patients had no immune response despite six to seven vaccine dosages; they had previously received immunosuppressive therapy. Antibody titres measured 1 year after seroconversion were found to be within the protective range (85-2500 mIU/ml). These results show that the impaired immune response to hepatitis B vaccination in young dialysis patients can be overcome by increasing the number of injections and the dose of the vaccine. Protective antibody titres are maintained for at least 1 year after vaccination. Immunosuppressive therapy may interfere with the vaccine response. PMID- 2528086 TI - Plasma alpha-human atrial natriuretic peptide and volume status in chronic haemodialysis patients. AB - The relationship between inferior vena cava diameter (VCD), collapse-index (CI) determined by echography, and alpha-human atrial natriuretic peptide (alpha-h ANP) concentrations were studied in 19 chronic haemodialysis patients. A significant correlation was found between VCD and alpha-h-ANP before dialysis (r = 0.78; P less than 0.0001). No such correlation was found between CI, left atrial diameter and left ventricular end-diastolic diameter, and alpha-h-ANP values. In nine patients who according to vena cava indices were hypervolaemic before dialysis (group I), alpha-h-ANP concentrations were significantly greater than in ten normo- or hypovolaemic patients (group II): 392.8 +/- 134.1 pg/ml and 168.0 +/- 62.5 pg/ml respectively. Although the same amount of fluid was ultrafiltrated in both groups, alpha-h-ANP decreased significantly in group I only, whereas in group II the decrease was not significant: 392.8 +/- 134.1 to 185.2 +/- 81.7 (P less than 0.001); 168.0 +/- 62.5 to 130.0 +/- 59 respectively. After achieving normovolaemia alpha-h-ANP concentrations in patients with a mitral valve insufficiency grade I was doubled compared to normovolaemic patients without mitral valve insufficiency, suggesting that alpha-h-ANP release will also occur from the left atrium. In the latter group alpha-h-ANP values were approximately doubled compared to healthy controls. The highly significant correlation between VCD before dialysis and changes in alpha-h-ANP during dialysis with fluid removal underlines the value of vena cava diameter in estimating volume status. PMID- 2528087 TI - Effect of EDTA on the bronchodilator response to Duovent nebuliser solution. PMID- 2528088 TI - Reproducibility of quantitative 99Tcm-MAG 3 measurements in rats. AB - Repetitive quantitative renal extraction studies of 99Tcm-MAG 3, performed in nine rats, demonstrated excellent reproducibility of successive measurements. These results are better than with 99Tcm-DTPA, due to the higher renal extraction of the 99Tcm-MAG 3. The % of renal uptake 10 min after the injection was not influenced by the elapsed time between the end of the 99Tcm-MAG 3 preparation and its i.v. administration. PMID- 2528089 TI - [Report of experiences with AIDS education in schools by the public health service]. AB - AIDS information work is very work-intensive if it is to be pursued with consequence and effect. This is a report on the work done in the course of one year at 47 schools and on the experience collected: --Many evening events have to be visited (parents' evenings and get-togethers, meetings of the parent councils). Such events are absolutely imperative if work at the schools should be meaningful and effective. --Working in Small groups (class groups) is much more time-intensive but also clearly more effective and should therefore always be preferred to large-scale events. --Working at different types of schools with different age levels makes great demands on the flexibility and intuitive abilities of the AIDS expert. PMID- 2528090 TI - [AIDS education in school by the public health service]. AB - The article describes how AIDS information can be disseminated in schools with maximum coverage, by an expert of the Public Health Offices. A Federal German county district (Hameln-Pyrmont in North Rhine West-phalia) serves as an example. Such dissemination is based on cooperation with the schoolteachers to achieve a division of work. A teaching unit is described. An important point is to make the contents of the AIDS information and education campaign perfectly clear to all the decision-makers in school work. PMID- 2528091 TI - [Occupational fields of AIDS specialists in the public health office]. AB - Preexisting supplies of a local public health office and other institutions are taken into account in developing main activities of an AIDS-counsellor within the AIDS-programme at public health offices in Western Germany. School education and individual AIDS counselling are predominant. Sexology at schools in Bavaria is restricted by the education privilege of parents and ethical principles supported by the catholic church. Further activities for domestic nursing personnel and medical doctors were introduced successfully. The controversy of epidemic hygiene predominating over psychological counselling is discussed. Efficacy of working at schools and future developing topics are discussed. PMID- 2528092 TI - [Student survey on the topic of AIDS in the city of Bochum April 1988]. AB - 70% of the pupils of public schools in the city of Bochum who were questioned in an opinion poll conducted by the Public Health Office were interested in knowing more about AIDS. More than 80% of the boys and girls approached during the questioning know the causative virus and how persons can get infected. It is also relatively well known how a person can protect himself or herself against HIV infection by meaningful measures. However, it is very surprising that only about 24% of all questioned pupils believe that anybody without exception can be involved. The school, TV and magazines or newspapers are named as principal sources of information. About 40% of all questioned persons are very afraid or afraid of AIDS. About 50% of the schoolgirls and schoolboys approached during the poll wanted to know how they should act when coming into contact with AIDS patients. Schoolgirls and schoolboys prefer to discuss problems of prevention and subjects like AIDS with their girlfriend or boyfriend or at the most with their mother. Almost 80% of all persons questioned believed that they could at least do something, albeit little, to prevent AIDS from spreading further by their own behaviour. The following column histograms show some of the exact percentage distributions. PMID- 2528093 TI - [HIV tests as preventive responsibility of public health offices]. AB - 4,382 blood samples were examined for HIV antibodies between August 1985 and the end of December 1988 at the Public Health office of the city of Augsburg. The prevalence of positive tests was 0.57% (n = 25). The rate at which various consultation offers were made use of was calculated for 1988. From 1985 to 1988 approximately 200 registered female prostitutes were regularly tested for HIV. It was only in 1985 that the HIV antibody test was positive in two women. Compared with 1984-1986 as basis there was a marked drop in the incidence of gonorrhoea to 71.7% and in 1988 to 6.5%. PMID- 2528094 TI - [Contemporary organization and necessary scope of community social psychiatric service (exemplified by North Rhine Westphalia)]. AB - A model programme on psychiatric care had been carried out and evaluated in the Federal Republic of Germany in 1985 (the year of its completion) and was based on the (then assumed) existence of public sociopsychiatric services as one of the (meanwhile self-understood) corner-stones of communal care for psychiatric patients. Now that evaluation has been accomplished, it is high time to initiate the requisite legal and administrative steps to ensure the setting up and operation of a sociopsychiatric service for every township governed by a council and for every county, to fulfil tasks to be laid down in a law to govern the care for psychiatric patients--a service that was not originally provided for in North Rhine Westphalia by the forerunner law of a Federal German law that is still in the drafting stage, the North Rhine Westphalian model having been conceived 20 years ago. The author describes the generally acknowledged catalogue of basic tasks and the minimum demands that are to be made on a community-based sociopsychiatric service as derived from many years of experience with a variety of models, as well as the resulting personal, organizational and legal consequences. The possibility of translating these tasks into financial reality and integrating them in the routine work of an administrative township or county council, is discussed. Apart from this, future aims are shown, delineated against the present background. PMID- 2528095 TI - [Possibilities and limits of preventive sports medicine examination by the Essen public health service]. AB - Prevention is mainly based on combatting the well-known risk factors, one of them being insufficient movement and mobility exercise, by no means an unimportant factor. The knowledge that regular sports activities are important and relevant, is steadily growing, but it also entails uncertainties. Persons who have been inactive for years do not know what they can cope with and which kind of sports would be most appropriate. The Public Health Office in Essen offers a detailed medical examination by a sports physician coupled with counselling on further training for all who are interested in sports activities. PMID- 2528096 TI - [Vaccination status of children and adolescents in Schleswig-Holstein. Principles and initial experiences of an assessment throughout the district]. AB - Isolated ("punctual") spot checks in individual cities or regions of Federal Lands cannot result in a convincing pattern of the degree of vaccination achieved. In January 1988 the Land of Slesvig-Holstein started the statistical recording of complete protection by vaccination in accordance with age (preventive health care for children and adolescents by protective vaccination). The Medical Services for Juveniles carry out this work which also includes counselling, for four age groups (5 to 14 years). Statistics are compiled on the basis of documents proving the vaccination. Achievement of complete protection is recorded, including regular and delayed results for measles, mumps, BCG, pertussis and rubella. Such long-term statistics on results can be obtained only if all the work teams of youth doctors cooperate and if they are properly motivated to determine the state of health of the population. PMID- 2528097 TI - [The value of the tuberculin tine test]. AB - The sensitivity of two different tuberculin multipuncture tests (PPD Merieux and Tubergen) was compared with Mendel Mantoux GT 10 in 213 persons. Merieux tests were false-negative in 15.3% of the cases, whereas congruence of the positive Mendel Mantoux and Tubergen reactions was 100%. PMID- 2528098 TI - [Experiences with drinking water ring trials and consequences for assessment and control of drinking and bathing water]. AB - Collaborative studies of comparative investigations of standardized drinking water were performed within Lower Saxony since two years. The results show that the precision of the measurements even in the reference laboratories is substantially less than the measuring tolerance given by the Federal Drinking Water Regulation. Therefore, the standard deviation of the different parameters, variation coefficients, respectively, are to be used for the internal statistical quality control as well as for the judgment of water. Protests against drinking water, bath water, respectively, due to parameters exceeded should be made just if the guide or imperative values are exceeded by the threefold standard deviation experimentally determined in reference laboratories. PMID- 2528099 TI - [The natural experiment--health systems with special reference to prevention in East germany and West Germany]. AB - Even now, decades after the partition, the GDR and the FRG have a few things in common besides many differences in their Public Health systems. Although the roots were originally common and date back to a time long before von Bismarck was at the helm of German affairs, the differences that are now in evidence have evolved under the influence of different politicocultural systems-a natural experiment. This situation is now reviewed in the following article, although very little literature or current comparable data are available. Particular emphasis in this review is on preventive care. PMID- 2528101 TI - [AIDS worldwide. Status: 31 March 1989]. PMID- 2528100 TI - [Off. Gesundh.-Wes. 50 (1988) 670-677, "Legal-social observations on prostitution in relation to AIDS and AIDS-complex by E. Quambusch]. PMID- 2528102 TI - [AIDS series of the WHO]. PMID- 2528103 TI - Visual assessment of the multiply handicapped patient. AB - The visual capabilities of the multiply handicapped and/or developmentally delayed patient are difficult to assess with methods that depend on the patient's subjective responses. Fifty-nine patients with multiple neurological handicaps and unknown visual capabilities were examined using a modified ophthalmic examination which included visual acuity measures using visual evoked potential (VEP) and preferential looking (PL) techniques. Patients ranged in age from 3 to 33 years; median age 9 years. Significant refractive error (in 73%) and strabismus (in 71%) were the most common ocular disorders. Of the 43 patients with a significant refractive error, only 16 (37%) were wearing their proper correction (ranging from -21 to +20 D). In 27 patients the uncorrected refractive error ranged from -10 to +20 D. Binocular acuities (with refractive correction) could be obtained from 56 patients (95%) using a spatial frequency sweep VEP technique, and in 41 patients (70%) using PL grating acuity cards. The VEP and PL grating acuity measures agreed to within 1 octave (a factor of 2 in minimum angle of resolution) in 27 of 41 patients. VEP acuity was 1.1 to 2.7 octaves higher in 12 patients. Grating acuity of at least 6/12 (20/40) was estimated in 12 patients. Residual vision can be measured in "difficult to examine" multiply handicapped patients with VEP and PL techniques. PMID- 2528104 TI - Temporal lobe epilepsy: its association with psychiatric impairment and appropriate dental management. AB - Temporal lobe seizures are manifested by aberrant experiences, automatic behavior, or both. In addition, approximately 40% of the patients who have had the disease for more than 15 years exhibit significant personality disorders, mood changes, or psychoses in the periods between seizures (interictal phase). Recognition that these characterologic manifestations are components of the underlying neurologic disorder allows for a more rational approach to the provision of dental care. PMID- 2528105 TI - [The role of seasonal translocations of palearctic migrants in the spread of haemosporidians in birds]. AB - The part of birds of Kurskaya Kosa populations infected with Haemosporidia of southern origin is determined. On the basis of actual material and literary data the role of seasonal migrations of palearctic migrants to various zoogeographical regions for infection with Haemosporidia and further fate of Protozoa of southern (northern) origin in nesting (wintering) distribution areas of birds are discussed. PMID- 2528106 TI - [The life cycle of myxosporidians in fish of the Kola Peninsula]. AB - Monthly studies on the seasonal parasite fauna dynamics of pike, minnow and perch were carried out from May, 1974 to September, 1977. It was found out that the myxosporidian Henneguya creplini has a one-year life cycle. The infection of perch with this parasite takes place at a water temperature not exceeding 13 degrees. In other species (Chloromyxum esocinum, Ch. mitenevi, Myxobolus cybinae) the life cycle is shorter, in consequence of which fishes can be infected with these parasites several times a year and in different seasons. The nature of seasonal changes in abundance of myxosporidians depends to a great extent on weather conditions of each concrete year. PMID- 2528107 TI - [Changes in the parasitic fish fauna of the Kairak-Kum reservoir over a long period]. AB - During last few years a tendency for the reduction in the number of parasites of all investigated fishes has been observed. This is connected with the general tendency for the impoverishment of the reservoir flora and fauna, that may be the result of the fluctuations of its water level. Finally this process leads to the reduction in the number of many species of parasites and even to their disappearance. PMID- 2528108 TI - [Ixodid ticks of Pavlodar Province and their participation in the circulation of tularemia infection]. AB - Investigations carried out in Pavlodar Province have shown that 7 species of ixodid ticks, Ixodes crenulatus, I. lividus, I. persulcatus, I. laguri laguri, Dermacentor marginatus, D. reticulatus, Haemaphysalis concinna, and one brought species, Hyalomma asiaticum, parasitize domestic animals and wild mammals. Maximum activity of pasture ticks of the genus Dermacentor falls on the end of April--beginning of May, that of H. concinna on the beginning of June. The growth in the abundance of pasture ticks, recorded during the last years, is favoured by the increase in the cattle live stock, its seasonal movements and pasture area reduction. Natural nidi of tularemia become more active. Since 1977 221 cultures of tularemia agent have been isolatid from pasture ticks. H. concinna takes the most active part in the infection circulation. PMID- 2528109 TI - Eimeria species infecting wood mice (genus Apodemus) and the transfer of two species to Mus musculus. AB - Characteristics of four species of Eimeria isolated from Apodemus sylvaticus are described. From oocyst morphology, three are identified as E. apionodes, E. hungaryensis and E. uptoni, the fourth being unnamed. Cloning demonstrated that oocysts of E. hungaryensis were polymorphic. Previous literature relating to the taxonomy is discussed and discrepancies outlined. Species isolated from A. sylvaticus were not transmissible to Clethrionomys glareolus, but both E. hungaryensis and E. apionodes have been passaged through immunosuppressed laboratory mice, the former species more than 16 times. In both A. sylvaticus and immunosuppressed laboratory mice, endogenous development of E. hungaryensis occurred mainly in enterocytes near the tips of the villi in the first half of the small intestine, with a few parasites in the rest of the small intestine and into the large intestine. The pre-patent period was 2 days in both hosts but oocyst output was higher in the natural hosts. E. apionodes parasitized enterocytes on the sides or at the base of the villi, mainly in the last 90% of the small intestine with a few parasites in the large intestine. The pre-patent period was 7 days. Parasites, probably E. hungaryensis and E. apionodes, were also isolated from A. flavicollis. PMID- 2528110 TI - Angioplasty of renal transplant artery stenosis in children. AB - Systemic hypertension after renal transplantation in children is frequent, occurring in 85% of the cases and may be the cause of severe neurologic complications. This can be due to multiple factors such as: rejection, recurrence of initial disease, steroid, etc. ... Among those factors, renal transplant artery stenosis (RTAS) must be identified as it may be cured by angioplasty. We report our experience in 18 children who had undergone angioplasty for RTAS. Angioplasty was performed under general anesthesia with 3F, 4F or 5F balloon catheters. Angioplasty was successful in 14 cases (77%) immediately (10 cases), progressively (2 cases) or after a successfully redilated recurrence (2 cases). Two of the 4 failures were due to technical problems, a successful surgical treatment was then performed. The 2 others failures were explained by a severe transplant rejection. The complications were rare: 1 femoral artery thrombosis and spasms of the intra renal arteries but without repercussion on the renal function. In our experience, angioplasty seems to be the treatment of choice in RTAS in children. However the indications must be carefully established taking in account other possible causes of hypertension in such patients. PMID- 2528111 TI - Renal and cardiovascular effects of atrial natriuretic peptide in fetal sheep. AB - In the adult, atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) has been postulated to regulate renal and cardiovascular function both when blood volume is expanded and when atrial pressure is increased. In late gestation fetal sheep, ANP has been detected in plasma concentrations higher than in pregnant adults; however, its function in the fetus is unclear. To assess the role of ANP in mediating changes in combined ventricular output and organ blood flow, GFR, urine flow rate, and urinary sodium excretion, we studied 11 chronically cannulated fetal sheep at 126 to 131 d gestation (term 145 d). We infused ANP in doses of 27 +/- 4 and 55 +/- 8 ng/kg/min into nine of the 11 fetuses and vehicle only into the remaining two fetuses. ANP increased hematocrit, Hb, and plasma protein concentrations, which suggests that blood volume decreased. Combined ventricular output and umbilical placental blood flow, measured by the radionuclide-labeled microsphere technique, decreased from 458 +/- 158 to 344 +/- 59 ml/min/kg and 210 +/- 85 to 144 +/- 31 ml/min/kg, respectively and the calculated umbilical-placental vascular resistance increased from 0.20 +/- 0.10 to 0.32 +/- 0.09 mm Hg/ml/min/kg during the infusion of the high ANP dose. Blood flow to the gastrointestinal tract decreased with the high dose of ANP but blood flow to all other organs, mean arterial blood pressure, and heart rate did not change significantly. The effects of ANP on fetal renal function were minimal. Thus, ANP may play a role in maintaining fluid homeostasis in the fetus through its ability to decrease blood volume and to decrease combined ventricular output and umbilical-placental blood flow. PMID- 2528112 TI - Soluble low affinity Fc receptors for IgE in the serum of allergic and nonallergic children. AB - IgE-binding factors are thought to have regulatory activity in in vitro IgE synthesis. To obtain evidence of the participation of IgE-binding factors in in vivo IgE synthesis, the serum level of low affinity Fc receptors for IgE (sFc epsilon RII) (IgE-BFs) was examined in 41 nonallergic children and in 37 allergic children whose serum IgE levels were significantly higher than those of nonallergic children. The serum level of sFc epsilon RII showed a marked age dependent variation. It was highest in infants and then decreased gradually with age. The serum level of sFc epsilon RII in allergic children was significantly higher than that of nonallergic children in early childhood (1128.0 +/- 323.8 vs 777.3 +/- 227.0 pg/ml, p less than 0.01 in infants (less than 1 y) and 851.8 +/- 270.0 vs 579.4 +/- 197.1 pg/ml, p less than 0.05 in children aged 1-2 y) but not in older children (3-15 y). Three allergic infants (less than 1 y) with serum sFc epsilon RII levels higher than the mean + 1 SD (1451.8 pg/ml) of all allergic infants (less than 1 y) had serum IgE levels (geometric mean 125.9 IU/ml) significantly higher than the other seven allergic infants (less than 1 y) (geometric mean 5.6 IU/ml, p less than 0.05). A close positive correlation between the serum level of sFc epsilon RII and the absolute number of Fc epsilon RII(+) peripheral blood lymphocytes was observed (Spearman's rank correlation coefficient = 0.79, p less than 0.001 in 27 allergic and Spearman's rank correlation coefficient = 0.72, p less than 0.001 in 19 nonallergic children). In conclusion, serum sFc epsilon RII may be derived mainly from Fc epsilon RII(+) lymphocytes, and may have relationship to the increased production of IgE in early childhood (0-2 y). PMID- 2528113 TI - [Analysis of the diagnostic significance of various immunologic indicators in children with primary glomerulonephritis]. AB - A study was made of the immunogenetic parameters--the physicochemical properties of the circulating immune complexes (CIC) and their interrelation with HLA antigens--in 70 children aged 1 to 15 years with primary acquired glomerulonephritis (PGN). It has been demonstrated that the active period of PGN is characterized by high conceptration of the CIC of medium size (molecular mass) in children with HLA antigens. This characterizes the predisposition of the persons with the established phenotype to PGN as well as evidences that CIC play an undoubtful role in the pathogenesis of autosensitization in PGN. PMID- 2528114 TI - [Incidence of angiopathies in children with diabetes mellitus]. PMID- 2528115 TI - [Clinical significance of circulating immune complexes in children with glomerulonephritis]. AB - The paper is concerned with the determination of the physicochemical properties of the circulating immune complexes in children with different varieties of glomerulonephritis at different disease stages. The assessment was made of the diagnostic and prognostic significance of these complexes. It has been shown that the intensity and the frequency of the concomitant signs of glomerulonephritis turn out maximal in patients, provided the circulation contains the pathogenic complexes whose long demonstration in the active disease phase is of unfavourable prognostic significance. PMID- 2528116 TI - [Trends in research on hereditary pathology in pediatrics]. PMID- 2528117 TI - [Principles of the present-day organization of pediatric nephrologic services]. PMID- 2528118 TI - [Various principles of the organization of nephrologic and urologic services for children]. PMID- 2528119 TI - Human CD3 gamma delta + activated lymphocytes exhibit killer activity in vitro against autologous leukemic cells. AB - TCR gamma delta expressing T cell clones are able to exhibit in vitro strong cytolytic activity against cultured tumor cell lines as the myeloid K562 or the Burkitt's lymphoma Daudi cell line. We investigate the possibility of developing TCR gamma delta bearing T cell lines from peripheral blood of 2 leukemic patients in complete remission in order to study their ability to kill autologous leukemic cells. T lymphocyte clones are obtained by limiting dilution of lymphocytes from the blood of patients with an acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). The T cell clones are first selected for their CD8- CD4-phenotype and then for their ability to react with the monoclonal antibody anti-CD3 without presenting reactivity with a monoclonal antibody directed against the TCR alpha beta. Further biochemical studies have indicated that the CD3 associated structure expressed on the cell membrane of these T cell clones is a gamma delta heterodimer. Functional analysis have indicated that these cloned cells are able to kill in a classical cell mediated lysis assay the autologous leukemic cells only when also LAK activity is observed. Thanks to this clonal expansion 10(10) cells/week indefinitely only 1 sample of peripheral blood will be necessary. Would these results be found with other leukemic patients, we propose to use this procedure for a possible application of killer cells for maintenance therapy of leukemia. PMID- 2528120 TI - Desmopressin (dDAVP): a powerful general hemostatic agent? PMID- 2528121 TI - A systematic study of field inversion gel electrophoresis. AB - The mobilities of oligomers of phage lambda DNA and of yeast chromosomes in agarose gels during field inversion gel electrophoresis (FIGE) were measured at different pulse times and electric fields. Also the ratios between forward and backward pulse times and/or field gradients were varied. The problem of 'band inversion' during FIGE, leading to an ambiguity in the mobility of large DNA fragments, was solved by using two dimensional gel electrophoresis with different parameters in the first and second dimension. The results are compared with those obtained with other pulsed electrophoresis systems and with a theoretical model. PMID- 2528123 TI - Statistical analysis of mammalian pre-mRNA splicing sites. AB - 222 donor and 222 acceptor (including 206 pairs) non-homologous splicing sites were studied. Well known features of these were confirmed and some novel observations were made. It is (1) cCAGGGag signal in (-60)-(-58) region of acceptor sites; (2) strong complementarity between regions (-69)-(-55) and (-36) (-22) of some of the acceptor sites, and (3) small but statistically significant correlation between discrimination energies of corresponding donor and acceptor sites. PMID- 2528122 TI - Molecular analysis of eight U1 RNA gene candidates from tomato that could potentially be transcribed into U1 RNA sequence variants differing from each other in similar regions of secondary structure. AB - From a tomato genomic library we isolated and characterized eight U1 RNA gene candidates (U1.1 to U1.8) all of which possessed the canonical plant U-snRNA transcription signals in their 5' and 3' flanking regions and exhibited nucleotide sequence conservation in the 5' splice site recognition sequence, in the Sm antigen binding site and in Loops B, C, D as well as in Stems III and IV of their coding region. Deviations from the U1 RNA consensus sequence were mainly localized to Loop A and Stems I and II, suggesting that the putative transcripts of the tomato U1.1-U1.8 genes would differ from each other in their capacity of binding to the U1 RNA-specific snRNP proteins. PMID- 2528124 TI - Rapid minipreparation of lambda DNA. PMID- 2528125 TI - A method for the screening of fusion protein expression by lambda-GT11 recombinant clones without the preparation of lysogens. PMID- 2528126 TI - Artistic treatment. PMID- 2528127 TI - Recent trends in the prevalence and secondary prevention of Down's syndrome. AB - Examination of data from the Glasgow Registry of Congenital Anomalies indicated that 184 infants with Down's syndrome were born (live or still) to mothers residing in the Greater Glasgow Health Board area between 1974 and 1986 inclusive. This represents a period prevalence of 1.1 per 1000 total births. Despite a strongly positive correlation between prevalence and maternal age, most of the Down's syndrome infants were born to mothers aged under 35 years. There was no evidence either of a recent decline in the annual prevalence rate or of a changing pattern of risk in relation to maternal age. Antenatal diagnosis resulted in the termination of less than a tenth of all Down's syndrome pregnancies. These findings point to a need for further aetiological research, for continued epidemiological monitoring, for an improvement in the relatively low uptake of amniocentesis by older mothers, and for the development of a screening test which can be offered to the entire pregnant population. PMID- 2528128 TI - [Cardiomyopathy in plasmacytoma-associated light-chain deposition disease]. PMID- 2528129 TI - [Familial nonpolyposis colorectal cancers (Lynch syndrome). How to manage risk factors?]. PMID- 2528130 TI - [Contribution of molecular biology to the study of polycystic kidney disease]. PMID- 2528131 TI - [Epidemiology of intestinal functional disorders]. AB - On the basis of 4 adult population samples subsequently gathered into one sample of 567 healthy subjects, we determined: (1) the annual prevalence of symptoms suggestive of intestinal functional disorders (30.5 per cent); (2) the elements which prompted subjects with symptoms to request medical attention (we found that the request was significantly correlated with the duration of pain, the intensity and chronicity of constipation, the number of symptoms and the triggering of disorders by stress), and (3) an estimate of the "cost" of intestinal functional disorders. PMID- 2528132 TI - [Role of invasive technics in the occurrence of nosocomial infections. At an intensive care unit]. AB - A prospective study was carried out in a polyvalent medical intensive care unit to determine the role played by diagnostic and therapeutic invasive techniques in the development of four nosocomial infections. Over a 6-month period, 206 patients admitted for more than 48 hours were studied; all had undergone one or several invasive techniques: 76 patients (37 per cent) developed a total of 117 nosocomial infections including urinary tract infection (41.8 per cent), purulent bronchitis (37.5 per cent) septicaemia (11.6 per cent) and pneumonia (7.6 per cent). The risk factors were: duration of urinary or vascular catheterization, tracheal intubation, tracheotomy and artificial ventilation. Gram-negative bacilli (59 per cent) predominated over Gram-positive cocci (39.6 per cent). PMID- 2528133 TI - [Early diagnosis of cancer of the prostate. Hypothetic role of transrectal echography]. AB - In order to clarify the value of transrectal ultrasonic examination of the prostate in the diagnosis of prostatic cancer at an early stage, 666 patients were screened in one year; 602 of them (TO) had a normal, firm or hypertrophic but non-nodular prostate at digital rectal palpation, 41 had a T1-T2 prostate and 23 a T3-T4 prostate. Among the 602 TO prostates, 162 showed a hypoechoic peripheral area which was biopsied, revealing an infiltrating carcinoma in 11 cases. The ability of transrectal ultrasound alone to detect TO cancer was estimated at 1.8 per cent (11/602). The positive predictive value of a hypoechoic image of the prostate was estimated at 7 per cent (11/162), which is much lower than the figures reported in the literature. Transrectal ultrasound can be considered an acceptable method for detecting TO tumours of the prostate with a yield comparable to that of digital rectal palpation in the T1-T2 tumours. The low performance (1.8 per cent) of transrectal ultrasound in detecting cancer at an early stage rules out any mass screening programme of the male population over 50 years of age. However, 45 per cent of localized tumours in this series were detected by transrectal ultrasound. PMID- 2528134 TI - [False and true hypertension in the aged subject. Diagnostic errors and potential solutions]. AB - Arterial hypertension has the same definition in elderly people as in young adults. Epidemiologically, it has clearly been demonstrated that in the elderly it is a risk factor of morbidity and cardiovascular mortality. The international reference method for measuring blood pressure is by auscultation and mercury manometer. However, this indirect measurement is the source of many errors due to the material or the observer, or inherent in the method. A typical example of this is pseudohypertension in the elderly. Several solution are offered to improve the reliability of indirect blood pressure measurement, the most convincing one being the use of scientifically validated autonomous instruments relying on the oscillometry system. Ambulatory blood pressure measurement is interesting, being of diagnostic, therapeutic and probably prognostic value, but all this has to be confirmed in elderly subjects. PMID- 2528135 TI - [Thrombocytopenia of malaria. Role of immune phenomena]. PMID- 2528136 TI - [Allergy to biogenetic human protamine insulin with a marked increase in anti insulin antibody levels and blood eosinophils]. PMID- 2528137 TI - [AIDS in the Republic of Niger]. PMID- 2528138 TI - [Bronchogenic cyst of the esophagus]. PMID- 2528139 TI - [Saccharomyces boulardii: a treatment of pseudomembranous colitis?]. PMID- 2528140 TI - [Apropos of pheochromocytoma and pulmonary edema]. PMID- 2528141 TI - [Measures for intensifying antitubercular work in the Kazakh S.S.R]. AB - The data on the condition of the tuberculosis care service in the Kazakh SSR are presented and stabilization of the epidemiological indices observed in recent years is indicated. This required activation of prophylactic and therapeutical efforts in tuberculosis control. With this, a working group for coordination of tuberculosis and brucellosis control attached to the Central Committee of the Kazakh SSR Communist Party was established in 1987 and tuberculosis control was under way that year. The surveillance coverage of the general population was 70.7%. The proportion of the new cases detected during the prophylactic examinations in the total contingent of the registered tuberculous patients amounted to 65.3 per cent. The proportion of the patients with destructive tuberculosis decreased within a year from 36.7 to 35.5 per cent and that of the patients with fibrocavernous tuberculosis lowered from 1.3 to 1.2 per cent. The rate of cavern closure in the new cases increased from 83.7 to 84.9 and that of pulmonary tuberculosis recovery, from 24.1 to 24.9. The activity of the tuberculosis service in the infection foci has become more intensive and the tuberculosis epidemiological indices have improved. PMID- 2528142 TI - [Prevalence and clinico-functional diagnosis of chronic nonspecific diseases of the lungs among the rural population of Uzbekistan]. AB - Overall clinico-epidemiological examination revealed a high proportion (11.4%) of rural inhabitants affected with chronic nonspecific diseases of the lung (CNDL) in Uzbekistan. Chronic bronchitis was stated to be the main clinical from of CNDL. It was detected in 9.9% of the inhabitants. Chronic obstructive bronchitis was mainly diagnosed in collective farmers and machine-operators (31%) who, in their activities, were mostly influenced by harmful labour conditions. The maximum volume rate of expiration at 50 and 75% levels and the curve of forced expiration proved to be informative for detection of obstruction in the distal bronchi. Many new cases were registered by the frequency of their referral. PMID- 2528143 TI - [Causes of death of patients with tuberculosis in the first year after its detection]. AB - During a 5-year period (from 1983 to 1987) 81 patients died within the first year after detection of tuberculosis. Among them, 42 patients died of advanced tuberculosis because of their late hospitalization. In 13 of them, the death causes were due to diagnostic mistakes. Twenty five patients died of concomitant chronic diseases. Eight patients died of malignant, fulminating and/or therapy resistant tuberculosis. Four patients died because there were mistakes in their treatment. Two patients died after operations for pulmonary tuberculosis. The real possibility for decreasing the tuberculosis death rate lies in higher diagnostic skill of general physicians in regard to phthisiology at the prehospital stage and that of phthisiologists at the hospital stage with respect to emergency and gerontological cases and selection of patients for surgical treatment. PMID- 2528144 TI - The alpha 3 beta 3 complex, the catalytic core of F1-ATPase. AB - The alpha 3 beta 3 complex was reconstituted from alpha and beta subunits of the thermophilic bacterium PS3 F1-ATPase (TF1) and then isolated. It is less stable at high and low temperatures than TF1, and the complex dissociates into subunits during native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The alpha 3 beta 3 complex has about 20% of the ATPase activity of TF1. Its enzymic properties are similar to those of the native TF1, exhibiting similar cooperative kinetics as a function of ATP concentration, similar substrate specificity for nucleotide triphosphates, and the presence of two peaks in its temperature-activity profile. Differing from TF1, the ATPase activity of the alpha 3 beta 3 complex is insensitive to N3- inhibition, its divalent cation specificity is less stringent, and its optimum pH shifts to the alkaline side. The addition of the gamma subunit to the alpha 3 beta 3 complex leads to the formation of the alpha 3 beta 3 gamma complex, indicating that the alpha 3 beta 3 complex is an intermediate in the process of assembly of the holoenzyme from each subunit. These results definitely show that the essential structure for eliciting the ATPase activity of F1-ATPase is trimeric alpha beta pairs and that the kinetic cooperativity of the F1-ATPase is an inherent property of this trimeric structure but is not due to the presence of single-copy subunits. In this sense, the alpha 3 beta 3 complex is the catalytic core of F1-ATPase. PMID- 2528145 TI - The sphere organelle contains small nuclear ribonucleoproteins. AB - We show by immunofluorescence microscopy of amphibian oocyte nuclei that small nuclear ribonucleoproteins (snRNPs) occur in lampbrush chromosome loops, in a few dozen extrachromosomal organelles previously described as "spheres," and in thousands of smaller granules. Spheres are variable in size (up to approximately 20 microns in diameter in the newt Notophthalmus and approximately 10 microns in the frog Xenopus) and are easily distinguishable from nucleoli by morphology and composition. Spheres occur both free in the nucleoplasm and attached to specific chromosome loci, the sphere organizers. Oocyte nuclei of a cricket and a spider contain essentially similar organelles, suggesting that spheres may be common throughout the animal kingdom. We suggest that spheres play a role in the assembly of snRNP complexes for the nucleus comparable to the way that nucleoli assemble ribosomal RNP complexes for the cytoplasm. PMID- 2528146 TI - Evolution of the vacuolar H+-ATPase: implications for the origin of eukaryotes. AB - Active transport across the vacuolar components of the eukaryotic endomembrane system is energized by a specific vacuolar H+-ATPase. The amino acid sequences of the 70- and 60-kDa subunits of the vacuolar H+-ATPase are approximately equal to 25% identical to the beta and alpha subunits, respectively, of the eubacterial type F0F1-ATPases. We now report that the same vacuolar H+-ATPase subunits are approximately equal to 50% identical to the alpha and beta subunits, respectively, of the sulfur-metabolizing Sulfolobus acidocaldarius, an archaebacterium (Archaeobacterium). Moreover, the homologue of an 88-amino acid stretch near the amino-terminal end of the 70-kDa subunit is absent from the F0F1 ATPase beta subunit but is present in the alpha subunit of Sulfolobus. Since the two types of subunits (alpha and beta subunits; 60- and 70-kDa subunits) are homologous to each other, they must have arisen by a gene duplication that occurred prior to the last common ancestor of the eubacteria, eukaryotes, and Sulfolobus. Thus, the phylogenetic tree of the subunits can be rooted at the site where the gene duplication occurred. The inferred evolutionary tree contains two main branches: a eubacterial branch and an eocyte branch that gave rise to Sulfolobus and the eukaryotic host cell. The implication is that the vacuolar H+ ATPase of eukaryotes arose by the internalization of the plasma membrane H+ ATPase of an archaebacterial-like ancestral cell. PMID- 2528148 TI - Effect of experimental obesity and subsequent weight reduction upon circulating atrial natriuretic peptide. AB - The effect of obesity and weight reduction upon circulating concentrations of atrial natriuretic peptide was assessed in an experimental model of the disease. Obese rats weighing in excess of 750 g were compared with formerly obese animals subjected to a 15-week period of caloric restriction resulting in a 40% reduction in body weight. Mean adipocyte size was significantly reduced with weight loss, as was estimated body fat. Mean arterial blood pressure remained normotensive for both groups, but a significant reduction in heart rate was associated with weight reduction. Circulating atrial natriuretic peptide was significantly elevated in the lean rats, which also exhibited decreased plasma renin activity and a negative sodium balance. Analysis of heart to body weight ratios implied that an obesity-associated, volume-induced cardiac hypertrophy remained even after the normalization of body fat. These results suggest that the diuresis and natriuresis accompanying weight reduction may be facilitated by atrial natriuretic peptide, which was elevated in part due to a persistent left ventricular hypertrophy following the transition from the obese to lean condition. PMID- 2528149 TI - Issues pertaining to the impact and etiology of trisomy 21 and other aneuploidy in humans; a consideration of evolutionary implications, maternal age mechanisms, and other matters. PMID- 2528147 TI - Changes in CD45 isoform expression accompany antigen-induced murine T-cell activation. AB - Leukocytes express a family of plasma membrane proteins called CD45 or the leukocyte common antigen. Isoforms of various molecular masses, 180-240 kDa, are produced by alternative splicing and usage of three exons, named A, B, and C, that encode the N-terminal portion of the external domain. By using monoclonal antibodies that precipitate B exon-dependent and B exon-independent isoforms we find that both murine CD4+ and murine CD8+ T cells selectively down-regulate the B exon-dependent forms of CD45 during an immune response. This change was monitored by using fluorescence-activated cell sorter (FACS) analysis and immunoprecipitation from surface radioiodinated and metabolically labeled cells. The loss of the 190-kDa B exon-dependent isoform during T-cell activation is accompanied by an increased production of a 180-kDa form, which does not contain the B exon-encoded sequence. This accounts for our observation that the overall expression of CD45, as assessed by FACS analysis, does not change. PMID- 2528150 TI - The origin of sex chromosome aneuploidy. PMID- 2528151 TI - Genetic risk factors in human trisomy 21. PMID- 2528152 TI - Molecular mapping of chromosome 21 and the region responsible for Down syndrome. PMID- 2528153 TI - Cytological and molecular studies of nucleolar organizing region variants and recombination in trisomy 21. PMID- 2528154 TI - Coulometric determination of anabolic steroids. PMID- 2528155 TI - [Early return to work after arterial surgery and strict control of disabled patients]. AB - Coronary surgery represents an increasing economic burden to society. This is aggravated a great deal by the fact that these patients do not return to work and are often placed in permanent postoperative disability. Comparative analysis of return-to-work rates after coronary by-pass, according to the social benefits system, clearly demonstrates the magnitude of the possible savings. Attending physicians, specialists and experts must, therefore, motivate the patients with total disability. PMID- 2528156 TI - Photofrin II uptake by atheroma in atherosclerotic rabbits. Fluorescence and high performance liquid chromatographic analysis on post-mortem aorta. AB - Atherosclerotic lesions were induced in normal and Watanabe rabbits by atherogenic diet and stripping of aorta endothelium. The rabbits were injected with Photofrin II and sacrificed two days later. Atheromatous aorta as well as normal aorta from control animals were characterized by their fluorescence spectra using front face excitation. Characteristic emission peaks at 631 and 694 nm were displayed at atheromatous plaques. The excitation spectrum shows a strong band at 394 nm and weaker bands at 446, 504, 536 and 574 nm. Although no fluorescence of normal aorta can be seen by visual inspection, emission with a maximum at 626 nm was detected by spectrofluorimetry. Normal phase high performance liquid chromatography analysis of extracts from atheroma and control aorta were also carried out. The specific labelling of atheroma involves mainly protoporphyrin, hematoporphyrin and also minor components of Photofrin II which are accumulated. Some other components are accumulated but do not appear to be specifically retained by atheroma. PMID- 2528158 TI - Selective monoamine uptake inhibitors and a serotonin antagonist in the treatment of panic disorder. PMID- 2528157 TI - Evidence for the involvement of central 5-HT1A receptors in the mediation of lordosis behavior in the female rat. AB - 5-Hydroxy-L-tryptophan (5-HTP), 25 mg kg-1 IP, in combination with the peripheral 5-HTP decarboxylase inhibitor benserazide, 25 mg kg-1 IP, and the selective inhibitor of neuronal 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) re-uptake, zimeldine, 10 mg kg-1 IP, suppressed lordosis in ovariectomized female rats, treated with estradiol benzoate (EB) or with EB plus progesterone (P). The suppression of lordosis produced by 5-HTP was antagonized by the beta-receptor blocker (-)pindolol, which also is a selective 5-HT1 receptor antagonist, but not by the 5-HT2 receptor antagonists metitepine or pirenperone, nor by the beta-receptor blocker betaxolol. The EB- or EB plus P-activated lordosis was also suppressed by administration of the selective 5-HT1A receptor agonist 8-hydroxy-2-(di-n propylamino)tetralin (8-OH-DPAT). Together, these observations indicate an important role of central 5-HT1A receptors in the mediation of lordosis behavior in the female rat. PMID- 2528159 TI - Iliac and femoral artery stenoses and occlusions: treatment with intravascular stents. AB - Forty-five patients with atherosclerotic stenoses and occlusions of the iliac and superficial femoral arteries were treated with a flexible, self-expanding, metallic intravascular stent. Of these patients, 37 were treated immediately after inadequate angioplasty. At a follow-up period of 2-12 months, intravenous digital subtraction angiograms demonstrated patency of the vessels with stents in 40 of 45 patients. The mean Doppler ankle/arm index increased from 0.60 to 0.92 immediately after treatment and was 0.89 at follow-up. Early thrombotic stent occlusion occurred in two patients. Intimal hyperplasia was a late effect and led to stent stenoses in three patients after 5-9 months and stent occlusion in one patient after 6 months. In three patients, percutaneous recanalization with balloon and Simpson catheters was successful. Intravascular stents proved particularly useful for maintenance of patency after angioplasty in occlusions of the iliac and femoral arteries and in treatment of stenoses due to eccentric and severely ulcerated plaques. The stents also helped manage complications after angioplasty. Long-term results will depend on the degree, frequency, and progression of intimal hyperplasia narrowing the vascular lumen. PMID- 2528160 TI - Septate versus bicornuate uteri: errors in imaging diagnosis. AB - Since two mullerian defects, the septate and bicornuate uteri, are no longer repaired by means of the same operative approach, an accurate preoperative diagnosis of these anomalies is now critical. A septum can be removed by means of hysteroscopic metroplasty. However, repair of a bicornuate uterus still requires abdominal surgery. Hysterosalpingography (HSG) has been the primary diagnostic modality for mullerian defects. On the basis of 63 patients, HSG findings alone, as interpreted by the radiologist, had a diagnostic accuracy of 55%. When this was supplemented with a gynecologic evaluation, the diagnostic accuracy improved to only 62.5%. However, when a diagnostic protocol that include ultrasound (US) examination with HSG was used for evaluating mullerian defects, the diagnostic accuracy improved to 90%, with all errors being noncritical. Therefore, it is concluded that HSG alone is not adequate to make the distinction between a septate and a bicornuate uterus unless the angle of divergence of two straight uterine cavities is 75 degrees or less, indicating a septate uterus. Luteal-phase US is frequently necessary to distinguish between these anomalies or to diagnose them in combination. PMID- 2528161 TI - Transluminal treatment of arteriosclerotic obstruction. Description of a new technic and a preliminary report of its application. 1964. PMID- 2528162 TI - Charles Dotter: interventional radiologist. AB - Coronary and peripheral vascular diseases are leading causes of death and disability throughout the world. Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty has had a profound influence on the treatment of these diseases, resulting in salvage of thousands of limbs without surgery. The concepts and innovations of Charles Dotter, inventor of angioplasty and widely proclaimed father of interventional radiology, affect the practices of all physicians engaged in the treatment of coronary and peripheral vascular disease. The highlights of his life and research are described herein. PMID- 2528163 TI - Vascular applications of laser. AB - The authors review the current experimental and clinical literature relating to the use of lasers in peripheral vascular disease. During the past few years, significant strides have been made in effective harnessing of laser energy for percutaneous revascularization. However, the role of lasers in treating vascular disease is not yet clear. Thus current application of laser technology in this area should be considered experimental until adequate clinical studies confirm its efficacy. PMID- 2528164 TI - Total occlusions of the femoropopliteal artery: high technical success rate of conventional balloon angioplasty. AB - Seventy patients 48-93 years of age underwent standard percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) for femoropopliteal artery occlusions 1-10 cm long. PTA was accomplished through an antegrade puncture of the common femoral artery. The angiographic criterion for technical success was restoration of the vessel lumen with no significant residual stenosis. The authors report technical success in 64 (91%) of their patients, an improvement over a technical success rate of 74% in their previous series of 46 other PTA patients with occlusions 1-20 cm long. In this series, no complications related to PTA necessitated emergency surgical intervention. Refinements in PTA can be attributed to changes in patient selection and medication, improvements in balloon catheters and guide wires, and greater proficiency on the part of angiographers. This update reflects currently achievable results with standard angioplasty techniques, and it is against such results that all new vascular recanalization techniques, including laser-assisted PTA, should be compared. PMID- 2528165 TI - Comment on the clinical appropriateness of an emerging technology. PMID- 2528166 TI - Response. Peripheral laser angioplasty: need for organized clinical trials. PMID- 2528167 TI - SCVIR (Society of Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiology) position statement on thermal laser angioplasty. PMID- 2528168 TI - Indiscriminate use of laser angioplasty. PMID- 2528169 TI - New reperfusion devices: the Kensey catheter, the atherolytic reperfusion wire device, and the transluminal extraction catheter. AB - Substantial interest exists in the development of reperfusion and recanalization devices that would aid in the management of both peripheral vascular and coronary artery occlusive disease. Several of these devices are now in multicenter investigative trials. The atherolytic reperfusion wire incorporates a 0.035-inch guide wire with a modified tip to recanalize the lumen through the totally obstructed vascular segment. Clinical experience in the initial 12 patients has been successful. The Kensey catheter, a high-speed rotational recanalization device, has been used in 110 patients in a multicenter trial. Technical success has been reported in 77% of the patients and clinical success in 55% of the patients, with follow-up periods of 3 months to 1 year. The transluminal extraction catheter (TEC) is a torque-controlled atherectomy catheter that incorporates an aspiration device into a distal rotational cutter. Consequently, distal embolization has not been a clinical problem in the 95 patients treated with the TEC catheter for peripheral vascular disease. Technical success has been accomplished in 87 (92%) patients. Three-month follow-up studies in 16 patients showed that restenosis occurred in four, two of whom had undergone combined atherectomy and angioplasty. PMID- 2528170 TI - Angioplasty and stenting of completely occluded iliac arteries. AB - Percutaneous angioplasty and placement of balloon-expandable intraluminal stents were performed in 12 iliac occlusions in 12 patients. Indications were limb salvage in seven and claudication in five. After successful stenting, ankle brachial indexes improved by 0.15 or more in 11 of 12 patients (mean increase, 0.40), transstenotic pressure gradients decreased to less than 5 mm Hg (mean, 0.58 mm Hg) in all patients, and improvement in clinical grade was seen in all patients. At follow-up at 1-14 months (median, 6 months), ankle-brachial indexes were stable (mean, 0.95), and clinical grades were unchanged in all patients. Complications occurred in two patients; both experienced distal embolization, and one, who was receiving corticosteroid therapy, also suffered stent thrombosis. Local surgical embolectomy was successful in both patients, and the thrombosed stent was recanalized with urokinase. This early experience suggests that stenting may play an important role in the management of iliac occlusions, especially in poor surgical candidates. PMID- 2528171 TI - Percutaneous transluminal aortic angioplasty: techniques and results. AB - Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of the infrarenal abdominal aorta has been reported by a few authors. In the present series, aortic stenoses in 32 patients were treated with various percutaneous angioplasty techniques. Isolated aortic stenoses and primary aortic stenoses extending into the iliac arteries were successfully dilated. The initial success rate was 100%, without evidence of rupture, thrombosis, dissection, or distal embolization. In only three of the 28 patients who returned for follow-up did symptoms recur or noninvasive vascular laboratory indexes deteriorate (mean follow-up, 25 months). Percutaneous transluminal aortic angioplasty has proved safe and efficacious in the treatment of atherosclerotic aortic stenoses. PMID- 2528172 TI - Restenosis and successful angioplasty: histologic-radiologic correlation. AB - Histologic analysis was undertaken on 24 perfusion-fixed arteries from New Zealand White rabbits that had undergone percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) of a focal arteriosclerotic lesion in the femoral artery 1 month earlier. Experiments representative of occlusion, restenosis (greater than or equal to 50% stenosis), a good result (less than 50% stenosis), or aneurysm (as defined angiographically) were randomly selected for histologic analysis. Histologic findings were compared with those in untreated control lesions in the contralateral femoral artery. All good results (n = 11) but only four of seven restenoses had histologic evidence of a tear into the tunica media or the tunica adventitia (P = .017). Cases of tears to the adventitia were more likely to have a good result. New myointimal proliferation was more severe with restenosis (P less than .05). Occlusions and aneurysms appeared to be more severe expressions of the histologic findings observed in restenoses and good results, respectively. An arterial tear is necessary but not sufficient to obtain a good result after PTA; outcome is ultimately dependent on the degree of intimal hyperplasia. PMID- 2528173 TI - Optimizing the results of balloon coronary angioplasty of nonideal lesions. PMID- 2528174 TI - [Laparoscopy in the differential diagnosis of causes of female infertility. I. Significance of the presence of ovulation stigma]. AB - 104 laparoscopy were performed in infertile women. Apart from the routine evaluation of organs of pelvis small the particular attention was drown to the presence of stigma on the surface of corpus luteum. The sigma was present in 41 cases (39.42%). It was shown that the presence of the stigma allows to recognize the examined infertile women as on ovulating one. It was also stated that the evaluation of the presence of the stigma is an important method in diagnosis of ovulation, particularly in the so-called unexplained infertility. PMID- 2528175 TI - [Laparoscopy in the differential diagnosis of the causes of female infertility. II. 17-beta estradiol and progesterone levels in the peritoneal fluid and blood serum]. AB - In 104 infertile women the presence of the ovulation stigma detected during the laparoscopy was compared with the behaviour of the concentration of 17-beta estradiol and progesterone in the peritoneal fluid and in the blood. It was shown that the simultaneous and performed twice during one cycle measuring of the level of these hormones in peritoneal fluid and in blood is of a great value in the diagnosis of ovulation in infertile women--and is correlated with the presence of stigma. It was also shown that the lack of stigma and the lower values of concentrations of steroid hormones in peritoneal fluid and blood suggest the lack of ovulation in spite of the presence of corpus luteum. PMID- 2528176 TI - Presence and actions of vasopressin-like peptides in the rabbit anterior uvea. AB - The presence of vasopressin-like immunoreactivity (VP-IR) in the rabbit eye was demonstrated by radioimmunoassay. Trigeminal nerve denervation resulted in a significant and selective decrease in the levels of VP-IR in the iris sphincter muscle and the cornea. The isolated iris sphincter muscle contracted in response to low concentrations of [Arg8]vasopressin (AVP) and related peptides. The V1 vasopressin receptor antagonist, d(CH2)5Tyr(Me)AVP, potently inhibited the contractile responses to AVP. AVP was found to induce an increase in the accumulation of inositol phosphates in the iris sphincter muscle but not in the dilator/ciliary body preparation in vitro. The present investigation demonstrates the presence of VP-IR in the rabbit eye and that this substance may be another sensory nerve-derived mediator acting on specific target sites in the anterior uvea. PMID- 2528177 TI - [The technical modalities of duodenojejunoplasty in large parietal defects of the duodenum]. AB - The authors present two technical modalities for solving extensive defects of the duodenal wall which occurred during surgery for large duodenal ulcers, which in one case involved the entire anterior part of D1-D2. In another case the duodenal wall defect was due to tumoral invasion by cancer of the hepatic angle of the colon. The solution consisted in duodenoplasty with excluded intestinal loop in "Y", in the first case, and duodenoplasty on an omega loop associated with GEP in the second case. PMID- 2528178 TI - [Esophageal foreign bodies--their diagnosis and treatment]. AB - The authors present their experience with three patients with inclavated oesophageal foreign bodies, and secondary complications that have raised particular problems of diagnosis and treatment. PMID- 2528179 TI - [Perforated and hemorrhagic duodenal ulcer: the problems of the surgical procedure and technic]. AB - The authors analyze five cases of concomitant development of two major complications of duodenal ulcers: perforation and haemorrhage. Particular problems of surgical tactic and technique are discussed. PMID- 2528180 TI - [Primary acute peritonitis in adults]. AB - The authors report 12 cases of primary acute peritonitis-that were operated over a period of 10 years, representing 2.8% of the total number of acute cases of peritonitis, with the exclusion of cases of postoperative peritonitis. Since they are so rare it is understandable that primary acute peritonitis of the adult are less well known by the general practitioner in surgery. The particular background of these patients, frequently involving other forms of pathologic features, and the generally depressed immunological background explains the atypical clinical evolution, with attenuated local abdominal signs, a fact which retards the diagnosis, and hence the therapy. As a general rule adults come rather late in surgical departments, usually transferred from another department (diabetes, internal medicine, gynecology, communicable diseases, etc.). The surgeon also has difficulties in making a diagnosis. When the decision to operate has been taken- in most of the cases this happens at a late stage-peritonitis is usually is the purulent phase and careful drainage of the peritoneal cavity is necessary, associated to antibiotherapy that should be applied on the surgical table, and with massive doses. Preoperative etiological diagnosis is difficult. Direct bacterioscopy of the peritoneal exudate is decisive and it should be asked for by the surgeon even in the early stage of surgery. Exhaustive visceral surgical exploration, which should, in principle, eliminate secondary peritonitis is neither easy to perform, nor without risks in these patients, usually aged, obese, with multiple interventions in antecedents. Appendectomy, as a complementary gesture, is contraindicated. The prognosis in the adult, in contrast with that of children, is severe, with very high perioperative morbidity and mortality (above 50% in the authors' experience). PMID- 2528181 TI - [Pancreatic pseudocysts]. AB - Clinical, evolutive and therapeutical aspects were studied, of 66 cases of patients with pancreatic pseudocysts hospitalized in the clinic over a period of 27 years. Particular modalities of onset were, those of patients with duodenal stenosis, mechanical jaundice, ascites and pleurisy, those in whom symptomatology suggested kidney or cholecystic disease. The intraoperative diagnosis raises the problem of differentiating a retroperitoneal tumor, identifying the possible association with a pancreatic cancer, and the condition when the pseudocysts are found at a certain distance from the pancreas itself. The therapeutical methods are codified, but recidives are possible. Cholecystectomy removes the biliary cause of pancreatitis which can determine the development of pseudocysts. The death rate of these cases was 6.3%. PMID- 2528182 TI - [A special case of obstruction of a biliojejunal anastomosis: compression of the anastomotic loop by a pancreatic pseudocyst]. AB - A case is presented, of a patient with late nonfunction of a biliojejunal anastomosis done 6 years previously for benign stenosis of the terminal choledochus. The malfunction was determined by compression of the anastomotic loop by a large pancreatic pseudocyst of the head and of the body of the gland, associated to another pseudocyst of the pancreatic body. Pseudocyst-jejunal anastomosis was performed, on the biliojejunal anastomotic loop, with good results. Clinical and therapeutical particularities are discussed, of this case. PMID- 2528183 TI - [Extra-arachnoid subdural injection, an accident of peridural anesthesia]. AB - Two cases are presented, with accidents of peridural anesthesia, Anesthesia of the entire brain stem, paralysis of the intercostal muscles, and of the upper limbs, apnoea and miosis that developed later indicate an extension of the anesthetic effects far higher that it could have been expected considering the technical details of the procedure. On the other hand the absence of any durable coma, of extreme mydriasis, and of severe arterial hypotension, as well as the relatively rapid retrocession of the additional effects of the administration of an anesthetic exclude the possibility of total rachianesthesia, and it can be concluded that there was an accidental injection of anesthetic in the extra arachnoid subdural space. PMID- 2528184 TI - [Endoscopic resection in the treatment of infiltrative bladder tumors. The analysis of a nonselected group of 111 cases]. AB - A total of 111 nonselected cases are presented, of infiltrative urinary bladder tumours, in which endoscopic resections were performed. In most of the cases (83% of the patients) the tumours were of the transitional carcinoma type, the transurethral intervention having been planned in advance. In 35% of the cases resection was done by necessity, and in 3% of the patients resection was done as an emergency for hemostatic purposes. Haemorrhage was the most frequent of the surgical complications, and was reported in 5 patients. Renal failure was the most frequent of the medical complications. In 50 patients radiation therapy was carried out following surgery. The late results are as follows; 44% survivals at 2 years, 14% survival at 3 years, and 9% survivals at 9 years. PMID- 2528186 TI - [Left ventricular hypertrophia in arterial hypertension: beyond hypertension]. PMID- 2528185 TI - [The indications for subtotal and total colectomy]. AB - Subtotal and total colectomy was the choice therapeutic solution for multiple colonic cancer, diffuse rectocolonic polyposis, multiple colonic polyposis, ulcerohaemorrhagic rectocolitis, and for two rare diseases; megacolon with extensive atrophy of lymph nodes, and acute ischaemia of the colon. A total of 35 cases are reported. Ileorectal anastomosis was the method used for this type of intervention. The opportunity of rectal conservation is discussed, in cases of rectocolonic polyposis and ulcerative haemorrhagic rectocolitis. The difficulty of making an optimal choice in complicated forms of ulcerohaemorrhagic rectocolitis is exemplified with the aid of clinical observations. PMID- 2528187 TI - [Reversible deterioration of renal function, skin exanthema and eosinophilia, in a female patient with chronic kidney insufficiency, after treatment with captopril]. PMID- 2528188 TI - [Hematoma of the rectus sheath simulating acute cholecystitis: an infrequent cause of acute abdomen]. PMID- 2528189 TI - [Severe acne and other skin manifestations in a patient with kidney transplant treated with cyclosporin]. PMID- 2528190 TI - [Myocardial revascularization surgery during a developing infarction]. AB - Our results with surgical revascularization for evolving myocardial infarction in 30 patients are analyzed. There were 25 men and 5 women (mean age 55 +/- 10 years), most with unstable angina (80%), which sustained an acute myocardial infarction secondary to either a severe stenosis (23%) or a complete obstruction (77%) of a mayor coronary artery during a diagnostic coronarography (27%) or a percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (73%). The most frequently involved vessels were the left anterior descending and right coronary arteries (11 cases), followed by the left main stem (5 cases) and the circumflex artery (3 cases). Nineteen patients (group I) developed electrocardiographic and/or enzymatic evidence of established myocardial necrosis despite early reperfusion, whereas 11 patients did not (group II). These groups were compared according to different clinical, angiographic, hemodynamic, and operative variables. Group I patients had a more recent disease and a better segmentary contraction. The same variables were compared between the 5 patients with early cardiac death (group III) and the remainder 25 (group IV). Refractory cardiac arrest, jeopardized myocardial mass and coronary perfusion indexes after the infarction-related complication, all were more desfavorable in group III. The ischemic interval between infarction onset and reperfusion was not different between the groups. The potential of surgery for myocardial salvage in the setting of evolving necrosis is emphasized as well as the influence of the magnitude of involved myocardium and its clinical repercussion on early mortality. PMID- 2528191 TI - [Asymptomatic common truncus arteriosus in a 25-year-old patient with paroxysmal tachycardia and truncal valve insufficiency]. AB - We present an adult patient (25-years old), free of symptoms with a congenital heart disease very infrequent and survival to adulthood is exceptional, the truncus arteriosus. Who entered to the Emergency Care Unit because of paroxysmal tachycardia. We describe the case with special reference to echocardiographic findings and we detached the rarity of this congenital heart disease in adulthood. PMID- 2528192 TI - [Hypoplasia and pulmonary hypertension in Down syndrome: prognostic evaluation using pulmonary biopsy]. AB - The pulmonary hypoplasia, in Down's syndrome with congenital cardiac malformation, probably explains the poor behaviour of these patients, leading to early vascular pulmonary lesions, which progress quickly. We present a case, in which the lung biopsy, done before cardiac surgery, showed a lung hypoplasia and also enabled us to establish the grading of the pulmonary vascular disease. The pathologic evaluation is necessary to decide upon the intracardiac repair and to predict the child's outcome. PMID- 2528193 TI - [Clinical profile and results of transluminal coronary angioplasty in women. Comparison with men]. AB - To determine if the results of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty are similar in women and in men or any difference between both sexes exists, we have compared 43 clinical and 61 angiographic or procedural variables of 85 consecutive transluminal coronary angioplasties performed in women with 421 similar consecutive procedures in men. Only cigarette smoking was more frequent in men (84 vs 11%, p less than 0.001), being the remaining coronary risk factors more common in women (hypertension 69% vs 37%, p less than 0.001; hypercholesterolemia 46% vs 33%, p less than 0.05, and diabetes mellitus 42% vs 14%, p less than 0.01). In addition, unstable angina was a more frequent indication of coronary angioplasty in women than in men (74% vs 61%, p less than 0.05), whereas coronary angioplasty after intravenous thrombolysis was more frequent in men (12% vs 1%, p less than 0.001). Coronary angioplasty angiographic success (87% vs 91%), and minor (16% vs 10%) or major (5% vs 3%) complications were not statistically different in the two groups. Nevertheless, success of the procedure in the absence of any complication was achieved in a higher percentage (86% vs 76%, p less than 0.05) of men than in their female counterparts. After coronary angioplasty 88% of women had an angiographic follow-up available which yielded a restenosis rate of 41% (vs 32% in men, NS), despite the absence of symptoms in the 89% of these patients in their last visit. In conclusion, we have found that the feminine population subjected to coronary angioplasty have a higher incidence of coronary risks factors and more frequently unstable angina than the masculine group.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528195 TI - [Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty in aortic coarctation in young adults]. AB - The results of percutaneous balloon angioplasty in 9 cases of adult aortic coarctation are described. One case was associated with bicuspid aortic valve and another with organic aortic stenosis. Two of them were female, and the rest were male. The mean age range between 15-26 years (19 +/- 4.2). Pressure gradients fell from 59 +/- 13 mmHg to 15 +/- 11 mmHg postdilatation (p less than 0.0001), and the internal lumen diameters increase from 5 +/- 3 mm up to 13 +/- 2 mm (p less than 0.0001). In one case an intimal dissection appears as complication. At consequence of these results, the percutaneous balloon angioplasty seems to be a good therapeutic procedure in the adult aortic coarctation. PMID- 2528194 TI - [Repeat coronary angioplasty in the treatment of restenosis. Results and follow up]. AB - With the aim of assessing the value of repeat angioplasty in the treatment of coronary restenosis we have compared the clinical, hemodynamic and procedural variables of 404 consecutive angioplasties, where 468 original lesions were treated, with 57 repeat angioplasties with 63 restenosed lesions attempted. The procedure was performed in the treatment of a myocardial infarction only in the group with original lesions (13% vs 0%, p less than 0.05). The hemodynamic variables including ejection fraction (63 +/- 14 vs 67 +/- 15) and the presence of multivessel disease (38% vs 41%) were similar in both groups, but more angioplasties in the restenosed group were performed in the left anterior descending coronary artery (70% vs 50%, p less than 0.01) whereas less were performed in the circumflex artery (6% vs 19%, p less than 0.05). Long lesions (greater than or equal to 12 mm), and concentric lesions, were more frequently found in the group with restenosis (33% vs 16%, p less than 0.05, and 48% vs 32%, p less than 0.05, respectively). In addition, more angioplasties in the restenosed group were performed during the diagnostic coronary angiogram (68% vs 24%, p less than 0.001). The results both per lesion (98% vs 88%, p less than 0.05) and per procedure (96% vs 86%, p less than 0.05) were better in the restenosed group, with a similar rate of major complications (2% vs 4%). With an angiographic follow-up higher than 90%, the restenosis rate was again similar in both groups (36% and 35%). We conclude that repeat angioplasty is an effective means of treating coronary restenosis with a higher success than the original procedure, probably reflecting an anatomic substrate more prone to be successfully dilated in the restenosed lesion. Accordingly, we are using repeat angioplasty as the treatment of choice for symptomatic restenosis. PMID- 2528196 TI - Postmortem stability of the rat atrial natriuretic peptide in blood and atrial tissue. AB - The postmortem stability of the rat Atrial Natriuretic Peptide (ANP) has been studied as a necessary and previous step to be applied in the forensic field as a postmortem marker. This peptide--whose extreme sensitivity to slight changes in blood volume is well known--could have great importance in thanatochemistry to establish a correct diagnosis when macroscopical observations and classical parameters are not conclusive or cannot be employed. The results show high stability in atrial tissue, where values are similar from 0 hours (108.99 pm/mg) to 8 hours (109.41 pm/mg) and decrease uniformly until 15 pm/mg) at 32 hours, time of our last determination. Blood ANP showed similar stability from 0 h (105.43 pg/ml) to 8 h (106.62 pg/ml). PMID- 2528197 TI - Regulation of glycolysis in sea bass liver: phosphofructokinase isozymes. AB - Sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax L.) liver phosphofructokinase (PFK) presents biphasic kinetics with respect to fructose-6-phosphate (F-6-P) in experiments carried out with crude extract. After the enzyme had been purified, two isozymes have been detected after chromatographic treatment. The two isozymes present different kinetic behaviour PFK-L1, the first eluted phosphofructokinase activity shows positive cooperativity with respect to fructose-6-phosphate and PFK-L2, the second activity fraction, has a Hill coefficient of 0.38 (negative cooperativity). The first isozyme shows less affinity for fructose-6-phosphate than that shown by PFK-L2. The joint kinetics of both isozymes produces a biphasic kinetics with respect to fructose-6-phosphate, similar to that observed in crude extracts. PMID- 2528198 TI - [Skin signs of hyperandrogenism]. AB - Among androgen receptors, the skin and its appendages are among the most sensitive. This paper explores the relationship between dermatology and hyperandrogenism. PMID- 2528199 TI - [Available anti-androgens for treating skin hyperandrogenism]. AB - Several antiandrogens compounds are available in the treatment of acne and hirsutism in women. Cyproterone acetate is the most effective antiandrogen. Its use must prevent the occurrence of amenorrhea with the prescription of an appropriate estrogen. Spironolactone, less effective, is better tolerated on a long-term basis, if precaution is taken to combine it sequentially with a progesterone or a norprogesterone, in order to avoid the occurrence of short cycles. This is the treatment of choice of moderate hirsutism or acne, in young patients. The association of spironolactone with an estroprogestative without nortestosterone is easy to use and well tolerated, and gives good results on acne and hirsutism. PMID- 2528200 TI - [Treatment of dermatologic manifestations of hyperandrogenism]. AB - The skin manifestations of hyperandrogenism usually depend on anti-androgens but the local anti-androgen which is truly active without causing any general reaction, still remains to be found. This is why a specific dermatological treatment should be associated to the basic treatment. PMID- 2528201 TI - The Fc epsilon R2/CD23 antigen: a hallmark of chronic lymphocytic leukemia B cells. AB - The effect of different stimuli on the expression of the low-affinity receptor for the Fc fragment of IgE (Fc epsilon R2/CD23) on peripheral blood B cells from patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) was investigated. CLL B cells cultured for 3 days in medium alone showed a progressive decrease of the Fc epsilon R2/CD23 expression, while the addition to the cell cultures of IgE or interleukin-4 had a slackening effect on the decrease of the Fc epsilon R2/CD23. In contrast, in the presence of interferon-gamma the proportion of Fc epsilon R2/CD23+ cells was more rapidly reduced compared to CLL B cells cultured in medium alone. Stimulation of CLL B cells with Staphylococcus aureus Cowan I (SAC) bacteria, which are able to enhance the expression of Fc epsilon R2/CD23 on normal B cells, induced a rapid loss of the Fc epsilon R2/CD23 from CLL B cells. PMID- 2528203 TI - Fibrinolytic activity in the chronic low back pain syndrome. PMID- 2528202 TI - Subclinical activation of fibrinolysis in atherosclerotic disease detected by B beta 15-42 assay. AB - Plasma B beta 15-42 and fibrinopeptide A (FPA) concentrations, which are respectively indicators of plasmin and thrombin in vivo activity, were measured in 46 patients with ischemic arterial disease without signs of acute thrombosis. In the group as a whole, an increase in both B beta 15-42 and FPA was found. When the patients were divided in two groups on the basis of their reversible (transitory ischemic attacks and unstable angina) or irreversible (stroke and myocardial infarction) ischemic episodes, the levels of B beta 15-42 were significantly elevated only in the former group when compared to controls (p less than 0.01). In the latter group we found significantly increased levels of FPA with respect to both controls (p less than 0.01) and patients with reversible and transient ischemic episodes (p less than 0.05). Moreover, the B beta 15-42/FPA ratio was significantly lower in patients with irreversible ischemic episodes than in controls (p less than 0.01) and patients with transient ischemic episodes (p less than 0.01), while no difference was found between the latter group and controls, although FPA and B beta 15-42 were significantly higher. These results suggest that in patients with transient and reversible ischemic episodes fibrinolytic activity is able to counterbalance an increased thrombin activity, while this does not appear to occur in patients with irreversible ischemic episodes. PMID- 2528204 TI - Neurological and electroneuromyographic assessment of the adverse effects of acrylamide on occupationally exposed workers. AB - Seventy-one acrylamide workers and fifty-one unexposed referents were studied. Weak legs and numb hands and feet, preceded by skin peeling from the hands, were the early symptoms of the acrylamide workers; their early signs were impairment of vibration sensation in their toes and loss of ankle reflexes. Three cases had cerebellar involvement followed by polyneuropathy due to heavy exposure. Electroneuromyographic changes, including a decrease in the sensory action potential amplitude, neurogenic abnormalities in electromyography, and prolongation of the ankle tendon reflex latency, are of greater importance in the early detection of acrylamide neurotoxicity since they can precede the neuropathic symptoms and signs. The diagnostic criteria for occupational acrylamide intoxication of this study revealed three severe poisonings, six moderate poisonings, and 43 mild poisonings. The total prevalence of acrylamide poisoning was 73.2%. The prevention of dermal exposure to acrylamide should be emphasized. PMID- 2528205 TI - Radiographically detectable lumbar degenerative changes as risk indicators of back pain. A cross-sectional epidemiologic study of concrete reinforcement workers and house painters. AB - The association between radiographically detectable degenerative changes in the lumbar spine and back symptoms was studied, along with the possible effect of occupational work load. The subjects were 216 concrete reinforcement workers and 201 house painters. A questionnaire provided information on work history and earlier back accidents, and a standardized interview produced data on back symptoms. The occurrence of disc space narrowing, anterior and posterior spondylophytes, and end-plate sclerosis was recorded separately for each intervertebral space from lateral lumbar radiographs. Moderate to severe degenerative changes were associated with increased risk of sciatic pain but not with the occurrence of lumbago or nonspecific back pain. The different types of degenerative changes provided no further information. In a multivariate logistic regression analysis degenerative changes and earlier back accidents were significant independent predictors of sciatic pain. When these two variates were allowed for, the effect of occupation was not significant. PMID- 2528206 TI - Structure and specificity of a class II MHC alloreactive gamma delta T cell receptor heterodimer. AB - Two distinct CD3-associated T cell receptors (TCR alpha beta and TCR gamma delta) are expressed in a mutually exclusive fashion on separate subsets of T lymphocytes. While the specificity of the TCR alpha beta repertoire for major histocompatibility complex (MHC) antigens is well established, the diversity of expressed gamma delta receptors and the ligands they recognize are less well understood. An alloreactive CD3+CD4-CD8- T cell line specific for murine class II MHC (Ia) antigens encoded in the I-E subregion of the H-2 gene complex was identified, and the primary structure of its gamma delta receptor heterodimer was characterized. In contrast to a TCR alpha beta-expressing alloreactive T cell line selected for similar specificity, the TCR gamma delta line displayed broad cross-reactivity for multiple distinct I-E-encoded allogeneic Ia molecules. PMID- 2528207 TI - Osteoclastic bone resorption by a polarized vacuolar proton pump. AB - Bone resorption depends on the formation, by osteoclasts, of an acidic extracellular compartment wherein matrix is degraded. The mechanism by which osteoclasts transport protons into that resorptive microenvironment was identified by means of adenosine triphosphate-dependent weak base accumulation in isolated osteoclast membrane vesicles, which exhibited substrate and inhibition properties characteristic of the vacuolar, electrogenic H+-transporting adenosine triphosphatase (H+-ATPase). Identify of the proton pump was confirmed by immunoblot of osteoclast membrane proteins probed with antibody to vacuolar H+ ATPase isolated from bovine kidney. The osteoclast's H+-ATPase was immunocytochemically localized to the cell-bone attachment site. Immunoelectron microscopy showed that the H+-ATPase was present in the ruffled membrane, the resorptive organ of the cell. PMID- 2528208 TI - Correction: selection of variable-joining region combinations in the T cell receptor. PMID- 2528209 TI - Fetal arrhythmias: etiology, diagnosis, pathophysiology, and treatment. AB - The study of arrhythmias enables the clinician not only to treat and effectively prevent some types of fetal morbidity, but also to understand the normal human fetal physiology. It can be anticipated that the study of arrhythmias in the fetus will expand, if the work currently performed in the child and adult is any indication. PMID- 2528210 TI - Studies on fetal physiology and pathophysiology in rhesus disease. PMID- 2528211 TI - Nonhematologic effects of intravascular transfusion on the human fetus. PMID- 2528212 TI - [Usefulness of cytometry based on the diffraction of a laser beam in evaluating spherocytosis]. AB - Thirty four cases of hereditary spherocytosis were studied by means of laser diffraction cytometry. The cases were grouped for study in accordance to previous splenectomy or not, familial involvement or not, and, in patients not subjected to splenectomy, severity of the clinical course. The values used to assess the presence of spherocytosis were those measuring the haemoglobin concentration within red cells, such as CH (directly estimated mean corpuscular haemoglobin), HDW (standard deviation of the distribution according to haemoglobin concentration) and % hyper (percentage of cells with haemoglobin concentration higher than 41 g/dL). The variables attained were statistically analysed by means of non-parametric tests. In patients with spherocytosis, MCV, MCHC, RDW, HDW, % hyper, and CH were significantly different from the normal group. This method points to the presence of spherocytosis by means of CH, HDW and % hyper. A reduction of the limit of haemoglobin concentration used to define % hyper (41 g/dL) could improve the sensitivity of the instrument for the diagnosis of the mild forms, which is often more difficult. PMID- 2528213 TI - Resources of supplemental security income recipients. AB - In order to receive payments under the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, an aged, blind, or disabled person's countable resources must fall below specified limits. The current limits are +2,000 for an individual and +3,000 for a couple. In 1987, when the data were collected for this study, these limits were +1,800 for an individual and +2,700 for a couple. This study found that the resource levels of most SSI recipients were well below the 1987 limits. A majority of SSI recipients had less than +100 in countable resources, and only about 12 percent of SSI recipients had more than +1,000 of resources. These low levels of resources ensure that relatively few recipients become ineligible for SSI payments because of resource accumulation. The most common forms of countable resources held by SSI recipients were cash, checking accounts, and savings accounts. PMID- 2528214 TI - Laser recanalization, laser assisted balloon angioplasty and laser angioplasty. AB - The efficacy of laser recanalization (LR), laser assisted balloon angioplasty (LABA) and laser angioplasty (LA) was evaluated. These procedures were performed a total of 55 times upon 49 patients who had occlusive arterial disease of a lower extremity with a history of incapacitating, intermittent claudication, rest pain or loss of tissue, or all three. Patients with lesions through which a guide wire could be passed were eliminated from this study. Two lesions in the common iliac artery, 44 in the superficial femoral artery, seven in the popliteal artery and two in the infrapopliteal artery were studied. Thirty-nine of 55 lesions (71 per cent), including 12 of 12 stenoses and 27 of 43 occlusions (63 per cent), were successfully recanalized. None of the seven total length occlusions were successfully recanalized (p less than 0.001); perforation occurred in four. Bypass procedures were required in six of 13 and two of 25 lesions treated by LR and LABA, respectively (p less than 0.05). All patients with lesions successfully recanalized using LR, LABA and LA were observed for a period of 15 days to six months, with an 82 per cent patency rate (32 of 39). Total length occlusions are not a good indication for treatment with currently available laser techniques. The addition of balloon dilation in LR decreased the requirement for bypass procedures in a significant number of patients. PMID- 2528215 TI - Effects of clindamycin and gentamicin and other antimicrobial combinations against enterococci in an experimental model of intra-abdominal abscess. AB - A model was developed to permit direct assessment of antibiotic efficacy against Enterococcus species in experimental intra-abdominal abscess. Abscesses yielded Enterococcus faecalis in pure culture. Antimicrobials were delivered by precisely controlled continuous intravenous infusion. After five days of therapy, ampicillin alone or in combination with gentamicin reduced residual bacterial titers from 7.93 +/- 1.05 (untreated) to 3.51 +/- 1.07 and 3.52 +/- 0.81 log10 colony forming units per gram, respectively. Both the clindamycin and gentamicin combination (6.49 +/- 1.33) and metronidazole and gentamicin combination (6.79 +/ 0.90) significantly suppressed the growth of enterococci (p less than 0.01). Combined clindamycin and aztreonam was ineffective, as were any of the agents used alone (except ampicillin). These results may explain, in part, the clinical efficacy of certain drug combinations against the enterococcal component of polymicrobial abscesses despite the apparent lack of in vitro activity of individual agents. PMID- 2528216 TI - Dislocation of C1-C2 Down syndrome. PMID- 2528217 TI - Teratogenicity of three substituted 4-biphenyls in the rat as a result of the chemical breakdown and possible metabolism of a thromboxane A2-receptor blocker. AB - AH23848 is a potent thromboxane A2-receptor blocker inhibiting platelet aggregation in vitro and in vivo. Oral administration to pregnant rats during days 7-16 of pregnancy, at doses of 0, 10, 45, or 200 mg/kg twice daily, resulted in dose-related maternal, embryonic, and fetal toxicity. The most notable observation was herniation of the diaphragm occurring in 1.5 and 100.0% of fetuses at the 45 and 200 mg/kg doses, respectively, when examined at term. A further study at 150 mg/kg twice daily during days 7-16, 7-11, or 12-16 of pregnancy revealed incidences of diaphragmatic hernia up to 42%. Herniation varied from small areas of eventration of membranous diaphragm to fetuses with apparent total absence of the diaphragm. The positions of the hernias in the diaphragm, following dosing over varying periods of organogenesis, reflected the chronology of diaphragm formation in the rat. The teratology of AH23848 was unrelated to its thromboxane A2-receptor blocker properties but was related to a chemical breakdown product, 4-biphenylmethanol. Some substituted biphenyl compounds appear to be specific teratogens in the rat, with their effects targeted at the developing diaphragm. A possible mechanism of herniation is the interference with muscularisation of the membranous diaphragm, resulting in weakness and perforation. PMID- 2528218 TI - Fibrinolytic inhibitors from the experimental rat epithelioma. AB - Guerin epithelioma, a highly metastatic tumour implanted to Wistar rats contains two inhibitors of fibrinolysis which can be detected with the use of zymographic techniques. The first one--with Mr about 48000 forms SDS-stable complex with urokinase. The second--with Mr about 7000 inhibits fibrinolytic and amidolytic activity of plasmin. PMID- 2528219 TI - [Growth and development in infants with a birthweight of less than 1501 grams]. AB - 37 children with a birthweight below 1.501 grams were studied between the ages of one and two years. The children were all admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit at the Regional Hospital in Trondheim in 1985 or 1986. Morbidity, development, growth and major handicaps in the study group were registered and compared with a control group of children born at term during the same period. The preterm children showed a significantly higher incidence of lower respiratory tract infections and hospital readmissions than did the children in the control group. The incidence of cerebral palsy in the study group was 10.8% among the survivors (7.3% among live births). None of the children in the control group had a major handicap. Neurological development as judged by the Gesell scale was normal in the study group. However, the control group reached a higher score than expected for their age. A striking finding was the lack of catch-up growth in the prematurely born children. This finding should receive further attention in future. PMID- 2528220 TI - [Development of acne in systemic androgen therapy in boys during puberty]. AB - Acne is a multifactorial disease. Hereditary factors and the hormonal influences of androgens are important. In this study the development of acne lesions are studied in boys treated with androgens for expected excessive bodily height. In two groups of pubertal boys increased incidense of acne was observed during the period of treatment. PMID- 2528221 TI - [Rosacea. Clinical features and treatment]. AB - The paper describes clinical features, concepts in the pathogenesis, and therapeutical aspects of rosacea. Particular attention is paid to recent experiences on topical therapy with metronidazole. A Norwegian double-blind, multi-centre clinical trial compares metronidazole 1% cream applied twice daily with placebo cream in the treatment of 97 patients with rosacea. After eight weeks of treatment there was a statistically significant difference between the two regimens in favour of metronidazole cream. No important side effects were registered. It is concluded that 1% metronidazole cream is an effective and well tolerated alternative to tetracycline in patients with papulopustular rosacea. PMID- 2528222 TI - [5 concepts of disability]. AB - Disablement is a measure indicating how the individual manages or does not manage to cope with the tasks life presents. Different concepts of disablement are applied: Tabular disablement is used to measure the physical resources needed by the individual to undertake an unspecified register of tasks. Medical disablement is a measure of the aggregate resources (physical, mental and social) needed by the individual to undertake an unspecified register of tasks. Occupational disablement is a measure of the aggregate resources needed by the individual to carry out his previous occupation. Economic disablement is a measure of the aggregate resources needed by the individual to carry out some kind of work for which he is fit. Social disablement is a measure of the aggregate resources needed by the individual to maintain contact with other people. The tabular and medical concepts of disablement are used in connection with compensation for non pecuniary loss. Insurance companies and administrative bodies, when determining the amount of compensation for such losses, lay most of the emphasis on tabular disablement (accident insurance and industrial injury compensation). The courts, when assessing the compensation, attach the main weight to the concept of medical disablement (compensation for non-pecuniary loss). The insurance companies and the administrative bodies have a system that is quite easy to operate, whereas the courts have a system leaving considerable room for discretion. The concepts of occupational and the economic disablement are used when granting compensation for loss of income.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528223 TI - [The concept of disease and handicap in the National Insurance Act. Clinical features, epidemiology and medical ethical points of view]. AB - The article discusses the physicians' problems in their work corrected to medical certification for a National Disability Pension etc. The most prevalent problems are quantitative assessment of disability in general, and diagnostic understanding of the growing number of ill-defined conditions with somatic and psycho-social components in particular. The article considers physicians' ethical weighing up of obligations both to the individual patient/applicant and to proper use of public funds. A public discussion and clarification of the place of National Disability Pension in the solving of social problems is advised. PMID- 2528224 TI - Mixed lymphocyte reaction in interferon-gamma treated (NZB x NZW)F1 mice. AB - Mouse interferon-gamma was administered to (NZB x NZW)F1 mice, which develop a disease like human systemic lupus erythematosus. Class II antigens on adherent spleen cells and their activity to stimulate allogeneic T lymphocyte in mixed lymphocyte reaction were observed as well as the changes of the clinical findings of the mice. In interferon-gamma treated mice, as compared to control mice, the positive rate for class II antigen on adherent spleen cells was increased, and the mixed lymphocyte reaction using the cells of interferon-gamma treated mice as stimulator cells was enhanced. These findings suggest that the enhancement of antigen presenting activity of adherent spleen cells to T lymphocytes might be associated in the exacerbation of the disease in interferon-gamma treated (NZB x NZW)F1 mice. PMID- 2528225 TI - [The organization of the dentist's work in a rural locality]. PMID- 2528226 TI - [Intensification of the instruction and the development of the creative activities of students in a department of oral surgery]. PMID- 2528227 TI - [Determination of zimarin in urine]. AB - Private technique of extraction isolation and purification, chromatographic detection and photometric determination of zimarin in urine is suggested. Detection limit is 0.01 mg, determination limit is 0.1 mg of glycoside in 100 ml of urine. Method makes it possible to detect 66-80% of zimarin added to 100 ml of urine in quantities 0.5-0.1 mg. PMID- 2528229 TI - [Back exercises for patients with chronic low back pain]. AB - The training therapy, which most back therapists consider an indispensable basic element in attempts to treat chronic low back pain, is reviewed, with an historical survey and description of the basic research in the field. Epidemiological studies show concurrence between chronic low back pain and reduced endurance of the back musculature and that the combination of a weak back and a back-straining occupation greatly increases the risk of low back trouble. On the basis of these studies, it is concluded that use of isometric back exercises in low dosage, which are central to the internationally acknowledged Swedish back school, only results in strengthening and increased endurance of the back muscles with difficulty. The author recommends introduction of intensive dynamic back extensor exercises which result in strength and endurance of the muscles. The back muscle training ought to be lifelong; thus, the exercises must be simple, learned over a longer period of time, so that the patients perceive the training as a natural and necessary part of everyday life. PMID- 2528228 TI - [Ultrastructure of the apical plasma membrane of the granular cells in the frog bladder during cobalt-ion decrease in the vasopressin effect]. AB - Simultaneous studies were performed on changes in water permeability and on the ultrastructural organization of the frog urinary bladder epithelium in the presence of Co-ions under vasopressin-stimulated water flow. A possible inhibition of the vasopressin-stimulated water flows by Co-ions is supposed from the extracellular surface of the apical membrane of granular cells responsible for water permeability of this epithelium. Using the freeze-fracture technique for studying the apical membrane ultrastructure, it was shown that with the maximum water flow the square occupied by intramembrane particle aggregates was as much as 1.8% of the total square of membranes, to reduce to 0.3% with the smaller water flow, the average sizes of aggregates being 0.35 mkm and 0.08 mkm in both these cases, respectively. Application of 1 x 10(-3)-1 x 10(-4) M CoCl2 from the mucose part inhibits the vasopressin-stimulated water flow. In this case no aggregates are actually seen on the P-face of the apical membrane, the number of intramembrane particles of the E-face being similar to that when the water permeability was originally low. It is concluded that Co-ion may influence the structure and function of the apical plasma membrane from its extracellular surface. PMID- 2528230 TI - [Intensive dynamic back exercises for patients with chronic low back pain. A controlled study]. AB - The effect of intensive dynamic back extensor exercises for patients with chronic low back was investigated in a controlled clinical trial where the patients underwent a three months intensive training program a total 30 sessions. The 105 patients were divided into three groups: a treatment group, an alternative group which underwent 1/5 of the treatment group's exercise program per session, and an alternative group in which the treatment consisted of thermotherapy, massage and mild exercise. Regardless of whether the outcome of treatment is assessed qualitatively or quantitatively, a statistically significant, favourable difference was found between the results for the treatment group and those for the alternative groups. The therapy was found to be without risk, but patients with clinical signs of current lumbar nerve root compression or radiological signs of spondylolysis or halisteresis of the column were excluded from the study. The authors recommend the introduction of this form of treatment as a general offer in the primary and secondary health sector. Back exercises can advantageously be conducted in a group; thus, the resources required for this treatment do not differ significantly from those required for many of the other forms of treatment generally employed, which often require individual attention. PMID- 2528231 TI - [The information value of rheography and loading tests in the functional assessment of the ureter (experimental research)]. AB - Functional tests, using electro-ureterography, ureteral rheography, electromanometry and electromagnetic flowmetry in the presence of diuretic and perfusion load tests, were performed at surgery in dogs. Ureteral rheography is shown to be a valuable method for the assessment of ureteral motility (as evidenced by ureteral volume changes), and have certain advantages over other techniques so that it can be used clinically for preoperative functional assessment of ectatic ureters. Load tests are necessary at functional tests of the upper urinary system in order to assess the pattern of ureteral wall contractility and reserves. PMID- 2528232 TI - Fatal enteritis in rabbits associated with a spirochaete. PMID- 2528233 TI - Oviduct magnum tumours in the domestic fowl and their association with laying. PMID- 2528234 TI - First case of lungworm on Jersey? PMID- 2528235 TI - Cranial sartorius muscle flap in the dog. AB - An anatomic study was performed on canine cadavers to define the blood supply to the cranial sartorius muscle. The vascular supply to this muscle was found to be a single dominant pedicle branching from the femoral artery at the proximal portion of the muscle. This anatomic information was applied in designing a study to determine the feasibility of performing a cranial sartorius muscle flap in the dog. The cranial sartorius muscle was transposed to the caudal abdominal region in four dogs. The muscle flap was based on the singular vascular pedicle defined in the anatomic study. All muscle transpositions were successful on day 19 as evidenced by gross appearance and histologic examination. Grossly, the muscles were well adhered to the recipient sites and were covered by connective tissue. Histologically, the specimens were characterized by viable skeletal muscle fibers, proliferative and maturing granulation and fibrous connective tissue, and mild to moderate mononuclear inflammation. Seroma formation and infection were the two postoperative complications noted. The cranial sartorius muscle flap has potential clinical application for repair of traumatic caudal abdominal hernias and large inguinal hernias in the dog. PMID- 2528236 TI - Quantitative binding of Fc-receptors, and antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity of blood lymphocytes in healthy and chronic lymphocytic leukemic cattle. AB - The binding capacity of Fc-receptors for IgG of blood lymphocytes was studied in healthy cattle and cattle with chronic lymphocytic leukemia before and after incubation at 37 degrees C in basal Eagle's medium without serum. It was found that lymphocytes of leukemic cattle possess twice the amount of Fc-receptors found in normal lymphocytes. The changes in the binding capacity of Fc-receptors for IgG of normal and leukemic lymphocytes correlated with those of antibody dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) of the corresponding lymphocytes. The lower ADCC of leukemic lymphocytes in comparison with normal ones was accompanied by a lower association constant of the leukemic lymphocyte Fc-receptors towards IgG. PMID- 2528237 TI - [Cationic proteins from neutrophils as inhibitors of nonenzymatic fibrinolytic and anticoagulant activity of blood plasma]. AB - Two cation proteins free of enzymatic activity, containing one and four peptides (CP-1 and CP-4, respectively), were studied. The cation protein consisting of four peptides proved to be the most effective inhibitor of the nonenzymatic fibrinolytic activity of heparin-containing complexes. Both these cation proteins inhibited similarly the anticoagulation activity of blood plasma. The drugs, like cation proteins, appear to be potentially important for clinical practice under conditions of excessive hemorrhage caused by elevated level in circulation of complexes containing heparin and proteins. PMID- 2528238 TI - [Change in carbohydrate metabolism, secretion of insulin and glucagon in normoglycemic rats during administration of various doses of nicotinamide]. AB - Development of hypoglycemia, a slight decrease in concentration of glucagon in blood as well as increase in activity of malate-and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenases in liver cytosol were detected in rats injected subcutaneously with nicotinamide at a dose of 31.25 mg/kg 6 hrs before decapitation. Increase of the single dose up to 125 mg/kg caused hypoglycemia, distinct increase in concentration of insulin and glucagon in blood plasma simultaneously with a pronounced inhibition of the enzymatic activity in liver tissue. Effect of nicotinamide on carbohydrate metabolism appears to have a dissimilar character depending on the drug dose: its small doses accelerated utilization and oxidation of glucose but did not affect the secretion of insulin and glucagon. PMID- 2528240 TI - [Mortality in malignant neoplasms in children]. PMID- 2528239 TI - [Estrogen antagonists and inhibitors in hormone therapy of breast cancer]. PMID- 2528241 TI - Investigation of genetic markers in patients with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. AB - Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) as Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) are believed to have a genetic basis. Additional factors are supposed to promote the development of IBD. However, apart from a few reports of HLA associations which await confirmation by other groups strong associations to (a) particular genetic marker(s) are still lacking. We here report on previously unobserved associations of CD to MNSS and UC to the immunoglobulin heavy chain allotype Gm 1,-2,10. We suggest that these factors play a role in a wider spectrum of genetic markers for the development of IBD. PMID- 2528242 TI - [Malignant melanoma and HIV infection]. AB - Among 1000 patients with HIV infection consecutively examined at our dermatological department during the last 3 years, we diagnosed 4 cases of malignant melanoma. This figure is clearly higher than the statistical incidence of 4-13 cases per 100.000 people a year observed in West Germany. The mean age of our 4 patients and 3 additional cases reported in the literature is 10 years less than the average age found in melanoma patients without HIV infection. These findings indicate an increased risk of malignant melanoma in patients with HIV infection. In most of our patients, the cellular immunity was only marginally impaired, corresponding to the stages WR1 and WR2 (Walter Reed classification). Tumor formation, therefore, does apparently not depend on the severity of decompensation of the immunity. PMID- 2528243 TI - [Lymphomatoid papulosis resembling ecthyma. A case report]. AB - A 54-year-old female patient recurrently developed disseminated papules, red brown in color and partly ulcerous, which spontaneously disappeared after 3-6 weeks. Histological examination revealed dense infiltration of atypical lymphocytes with epidermotropism. Immunohistological analysis showed predominantly helper T-cells (CD 4). Accordingly, we established the diagnosis of lymphomatoid papulosis. There was no evidence of malignant lymphoma. PMID- 2528244 TI - [Regression of hypertension-induced left heart enlargement in an endurance athlete treated with verapamil RR]. AB - In October 1987, Stage II arterial hypertension, probably of primary genesis, was diagnosed in a 52-year-old male patient. There was marked left-ventricular hypertrophy (left-ventricular muscle mass 224g, corresponding to 2.99 g/kg: mass volume ratio of the left ventricle 1.9 g/ml; end-diastolic septum thickness 15 mm, posterior wall thickness 13 mm). The patient is engaged in endurance sports for 5-12h each week and participates regularly in competitions. He was not advised to terminate athletic activities. The patient's submaximum performance (supine ergometry) is 3.3 watts per kg body weight. Under therapy with 2 x 240 g Verapamil per day, blood pressure decreased in the course of a year by 30/30 mm Hg at rest and 30/20 mm Hg at a specified exercise level. The left ventricular muscle mass decreased by about 70g, the mass-volume ratio normalized to 1.3 g/ml. PMID- 2528245 TI - [Regression of hypertrophy following nitrendipine: effect on systolic and diastolic function]. AB - The purpose of the present study was to determine whether an antihypertensive treatment with the dihydropyridine nitrendipine can induce regression of severe hypertensive hypertrophy and, whether alterations in systolic and diastolic ventricular function do occur. Eleven patients (age 49 +/- 11 years) with hypertensive hypertrophy were treated with nitrendipine (10-40 mg/day) for 12 months. Before and after therapy left ventricular hypertrophy, systolic, and diastolic function were measured by M-mode, two-dimensional- and digitized M-mode echocardiography. Systolic blood pressure dropped from 185.5 +/- 19.8 to 164.1 +/ 15.6 mm Hg (p less than 0.05). Left ventricular muscle mass was reduced from 234.5 +/- 51.2 to 201.5 +/- 37.9 g/m2 (p less than 0.05). Systolic wall stress (257.2 +/- 50.5 vs 245.2 +/- 44.4 x 10(3) dyn/cm2) and fractional shortening (34.9 +/- 6.1 vs 37.1 +/- 5.4%) remained nearly unchanged. The peak rate of left ventricular internal dimension change during diastole (MLVD), as an index of rapid early diastolic filling was increased (13.1 +/- 3.0 vs 16.5 +/- 3.7 cm/s; p less than 0.01), the relaxation time index, as an index of isovolumic relaxation, remained nearly unchanged (76 +/- 35 vs 64 +/- 24 ms; n.s.). A long-term treatment with nitrendipine regressed hypertensive left ventricular hypertrophy in proportion to blood pressure reduction. While systolic function remained unchanged as a consequence of an unaltered systolic wall stress, i.e. afterload, diastolic filling was markedly improved due to changes in left ventricular geometry through reduction in mass to volume ratio. Since relaxation time index remained nearly unchanged, factors contributing to the phase of isovolumic relaxation were not essentially affected by regression of left ventricular hypertrophy. PMID- 2528246 TI - [Protective dermatologic agents with universal action]. AB - Individual protective dermatologic agents are an indispensable component of the complex of prophylactic measures for occupational dermatologic diseases control. The last decade has seen a variety of new protective agents: industrial allergen inactivators, effective surfactants, and universal creams. Plamin, a universal cream manufactured in Sweden, is characterized by the optimal protective properties and is resistant to many aggressive media. PMID- 2528247 TI - [Immunologic shifts in tanners under the influence of potassium bichromate contact]. AB - Immunologic examinations of leather-dressers, suffering from eczemas and dermatitis due to exposure to potassium bichromate have revealed immunologic shifts, particularly marked in combinations of the dermatoses with mycoses of the soles. This fact has lead to a conclusion on the contribution of mycoses of the soles to sensitization of the body to industrial allergens. PMID- 2528248 TI - [Immunologic aspects of the pathogenesis of latent and seroresistant forms of syphilis]. AB - Studies of the cellular and humoral immunity in patients with latent and seroresistant syphilis have revealed decreased content of T-lymphocytes and elevated levels of B- and antigen-reactive lymphocytes. Reduced T-cell level is due to a decrease of the T-suppressor subpopulation. Unlike latent syphilis, seroresistant form is associated with a complete disappearance of the theophylline-sensitive subpopulation, whereas T-lymphocytes are represented mainly by the theophylline-resistant (helper) subpopulation. Effective therapy of patients with seroresistant syphilis has normalized the counts of T- and B antigen-reactive lymphocytes, and theophylline-sensitive cells appear in the blood. These data give grounds to prescribe immunostimulating therapy to patients with seroresistant syphilis. PMID- 2528250 TI - [Evaluation of remineralization solutions on the milk teeth]. AB - The milk incisors of 80 infant-school children were demineralized. For the following 3 weeks the children then rinsed their mouths with mineral solutions. By manifold replica yields (analysis by light- and scanning electron microscope) and colouring tests a positive influence of calcium and phosphorus holding solutions, among others with magnesium, too, on the remineralization was discovered. PMID- 2528249 TI - [Scotchbond dentin-bonding material in the biological test chain--is an adhesive composite-filling technic pulp-compatible?]. AB - The biological properties of Scotchbond as a dentin-bonding agent were assessed in cytotoxicity tests, subcutaneous implantation, in an acute vital microscopically controlled test on rat incisors and in an usage test on human teeth. The persistent moderate reactions in human teeth in the test period over 90 days, the strong toxicity in the initial and secondary biological test leads to the conclusion, that there is no clinical indication to use the dentin-bonding Scotchbond without proper pulp protection. According to scanning electron microscopy of the marginal adaptation of the enamel etch technique in connection with enamel bonding to long beveled enamel produced acceptable marginal adaptation of P-30 composite restorations. PMID- 2528251 TI - [The effectiveness of zinc chloride mouthwashes on leukocyte activity in sulcus fluid and on the clinical parameters in experimentally induced gingivitis]. AB - The influence of 0.5% zinc chloride mouth rinsings on the number and vitality of polymorphonuclear neutrophilic leucocytes in the sulcus fluid has been examined in comparison with selected clinical indices in 6 healthy probands during a 10 day plaque accumulation phase. The development of an experimental gingivitis could be suppressed significantly by the drug. The evidence has been the course of clinical inflammation parameter and the leucocytes activity. Only a slight inhibition of plaque formation could be identified in the first days of the study. PMID- 2528252 TI - [Comparative studies of the palatal mucosa under physiologic conditions and with removable dentures. II. The regional differentiation of epithelial layers]. AB - On the basis of the morphological evidences of 22 adults with own teeth and 18 denture wearers a significant reduction of the thickness and the number of layers of the stratum granulosum could be established under dentures. PMID- 2528253 TI - [Comparative microbiological, macro- and microscopic and x-ray findings in iatrogenic perforation of the maxillary sinus depending on the time of its lancing]. AB - To determine whether the inflammation afflicting the sinus mucosa shortly after oroantral communication is due to an injury or an infection, microbiological studies of two biopsy preparations each were performed simultaneously in 20 patients with the diagnosis: radix in antro. As a rule, notwithstanding the time of oroantral communication aerobe micro-organisms corresponding to the local conditions of oral and nasal flora. Primary asepsis of the sinus mucosa being assumed, an infection of the sinus maxillary has to be taken into account only one hour after the dislocation of a root of the tooth into the sinus maxillary. After six hours the infection will be followed by an inflammatory reaction. PMID- 2528254 TI - [The effect of age on the periodontal status of the golden Syrian hamster (morphologic research)]. AB - In 10 male Syrian golden hamsters at the age of 3, 4, 5, 6 or 7 months each the two first lower molars have been evaluated histomorphologically to get an exact statement about the spontaneous illness rate of our used animals. In this connection efforts were made to classify the histopathological lesions into initial, early, established and advanced lesions in accordance with Page and Schroeder (1976). Altogether occurred 4 initial, 64 early and 32 established lesions in 100 examined golden hamster molars. In no case advanced lesions have been stated. Referring to the various age groups a regular periodontal progression was not detectable. Histologically healthy marginal periodontium could not been found in the conventional Syrian golden hamster. Similar examinations have this to consider. PMID- 2528255 TI - Pharmacology and toxicology of azelaic acid. AB - The results of general pharmacological studies on metabolism, smooth muscles, renal function, cardiovascular and neurotropic effects do not contra-indicate the specific surface use of azelaic acid. From specific pharmacologic studies it is assumed that azelaic acid exerts its therapeutic effect in acne by an antimicrobial, probably bacteriostatic, effect on acne-relevant microorganisms such as Propioni bacerium acnes and, in addition, by a strong comedolytic effect. In numerous studies it has been demonstrated that azelaic acid is not toxic. PMID- 2528256 TI - Clinical and laboratory studies on treatment with 20% azelaic acid cream for acne. AB - In a series of investigations using 20% azelaic acid cream as a therapy for acne, it was found that the treatment, compared with its placebo, significantly reduced inflamed lesions after 1 month and non-inflamed lesions after 2 months. No changes in sebum excretion rate occurred, but a significant reduction, 15.9 to 10.5%, of free fatty acids of skin surface lipid was detected after 1 month. The follicular Micrococaceae density was significantly reduced after 1 month, and after 2 months there was a significant reduction in follicular Propionibacterium spp density. The final reductions were 2,500 and 44 fold, respectively. PMID- 2528257 TI - Clinical studies of 20% azelaic acid cream in the treatment of acne vulgaris. Comparison with vehicle and topical tretinoin. AB - 20% azelaic acid cream was compared clinically with it vehicle in a 3-month double-blind study of 92 patients with moderate inflammatory acne. In a single blind study of 289 patients with comedonal acne, the topical azelaic acid preparation was compared with 0.05% tretinoin cream over a period of 6 months. In both controlled studies, 20% azelaic acid cream significantly reduced the number of acne lesions and yielded clinically relevant improvement rates. Azelaic acid cream was significantly and substantially more effective than its vehicle, indicating that the dicarboxylic acid itself is an active drug in acne treatment. In the study of comedonal acne, 20% azelaic acid cream was equally effective as 0.05% tretinoin cream in reducing the number of comedones and with respect to overall response. However, azelaic acid cream was better tolerated, causing fewer local side effects than the topical retinoid. PMID- 2528258 TI - Long-term treatment of acne with 20% azelaic acid cream. AB - Preliminary clinical studies (2) proved the effectiveness of topical azelaic acid (AZA) in the treatment of acne vulgaris. During the period of 1982-86 we carried out two studies with 20% AZA cream in patients with acne to determine its clinical indications and therapeutic schedules. The first, open study was of 100 unselected patients of either sex, while a second group of 30 patients formed a part of a larger (309 patients) multicentre single-blind comparison of topical AZA vs. 5% benzoylperoxide (BPO) gel for the treatment of papulopustular acne. The rates of improvement obtained indicate that topical AZA can be considered an effective therapy chiefly for papulo-pustular acne, with a very good local tolerance. PMID- 2528259 TI - Azelaic acid for the treatment of acne. A clinical comparison with oral tetracycline. PMID- 2528260 TI - Double-blind comparison of azelaic acid and hydroquinone in the treatment of melasma. AB - Melasma is a macular hypermelanosis of the sun-exposed areas of the face and neck. The clinical efficacy of azelaic acid (20%) and hydroquinone creams (2%) in the treatment of this benign pigmentary disorder was compared in a randomized, double-blind study with 155 patients of Indo-Malay-Hispanic origin. The creams were applied twice daily. A broad spectrum sunscreen was used concomitantly. Over a period of 24 weeks, 73% of the azelaic acid patients, compared with 19% of the hydroquinone patients, had good to excellent overall results, as measured by the reduction of melasma pigmentary intensity and lesion size. Transient mild to moderate irritant reactions were initially seen with both test drugs. PMID- 2528261 TI - Estrogen biosynthesis in human uterine adenomyosis. AB - Estrogen biosynthesis (aromatase activity) was investigated in human adenomyosis tissue and compared with that of the normal myometrium, endometrium, and endometrial cancer tissues. Homogenates were incubated with [1,2,6,7 3H]androstenedione and NADPH at 37 degrees C for 1 h. After stopping the enzymatic reaction with ethyl acetate, [4-14C]estrone and [4-14C]estradiol-17 beta were added to the incubated sample. Estrone and estradiol were purified and identified by Bio-Rad AG1-X2 column chromatography, thin-layer chromatography and co-crystallization. Estrogen formed in the incubated sample was calculated from the 3H/14C ratio of the final crystal. The value for estrone formed from androstenedione was 52-132 fmol.h-1.g-1 wet weight. Aromatase activity in the adenomyosis tissues was higher than that in normal endometrial or myometrial tissues, but lower than that found in myometrial or endometrial tumour tissue. Furthermore, we investigated the effect of danazol, progesterone, and medroxyprogesterone acetate on adenomyosis cells in primary cultures. Aromatase activity in adenomyosis was blocked by danazol, but stimulated by progesterone and MPA. These results indicate that aromatase activity in adenomyosis may contribute to the growth of the ectopic endometrial tissue which occurs in this disease. PMID- 2528262 TI - Determination of prolactin, growth hormone, beta-endorphin, and cortisol in both maternal plasma and amniotic fluid during human gestation. AB - This study focuses on PRL, GH, beta-endorphin and cortisol in maternal blood and amniotic fluid during human pregnancy. Maternal blood and amniotic fluid samples were obtained from 18 normal pregnant women in the second trimester, 12 full-term gravidas having spontaneous delivery, and 10 full-term gravidas having elective cesarean section. Two gravidas bearing anencephalic fetuses in the third trimester were also studied. In the second trimester women, levels of PRL (3215.9 +/- 458.9 micrograms/l), GH (19.1 +/- 1.7 micrograms/l) and beta-endorphin (11.1 +/- 0.9 pmol/l) were significantly higher in the amniotic fluid than in maternal plasma. In addition, PRL was significantly correlated with beta-endorphin (r = 0.670) and with GH (r = 0.547) in the amniotic fluid. However, amniotic fluid cortisol levels (0.27 +/- 0.18 nmol/l) were significantly lower than plasma cortisol levels. The amniotic fluid of the women with anencephalic fetuses had normal levels of PRL, GH and beta-endorphin. In full-term gravidas, plasma PRL levels were significantly lower in women with vaginal delivery than in those with elective cesarean section, and there was a significant negative correlation between plasma PRL and beta-endorphin, and between plasma PRL and cortisol levels. Plasma GH levels in women with vaginal delivery showed no significant difference from those in women with cesarean section. Examination of amniotic fluid yielded no significant differences in the levels of PRL, beta-endorphin and GH between these two groups.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528263 TI - Relationship between lymphocyte size and enzyme activities in two morphological variants of B-chronic lymphocytic leukaemia. AB - The activities of the key glycolytic enzymes phosphofructokinase (PFK), pyruvate kinase (PK) and hexokinase in addition to adenosine deaminase, purine nucleoside phosphorylase (PNP) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) have been measured in lymphocytes from 39 cases with B-chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (B-CLL). According to the percentage of circulating large non-granular atypical lymphocytes (AL) the B-CLL cases were classified as: typical (less than 10% of AL; 28 cases) and atypical (10-25% AL; 11 cases). In both groups the median lymphocyte volume (MLV) was assessed and correlated with the correspondent enzyme activities. The MLV of B-CLL lymphocytes was significantly (p less than 0.001) decreased (149.9 +/- 19.4 fl) as compared to normal B lymphocytes (175.1 +/- 14.5 fl) and it was significantly (p less than 0.001) lower in typical B-CLL (141.8 +/- 12.2 fl) than in atypical B-CLL (172.0 +/- 17.2 fl). Furthermore, in patients with typical B CLL, all enzyme activities when expressed as U/10(9) cells were, with the exception of PFK, significantly decreased compared to normal B lymphocytes. However, when the results were expressed as U/ml cells, only PK, PNP and LDH remained significantly low. These findings demonstrate that the determination of MLV in addition to morphology may be a useful tool to distinguish the two previously described morphological B-CLL variants (typical and atypical) and that these two different B-CLL groups are also distinguishable on the basis of three enzyme activities, PK, PNP and LDH which have been shown to be less dependent on cell size than the other enzymes, also studied here. PMID- 2528264 TI - [Anatomical study of the ramification and intramuscular distribution of the intercostal nerves in man]. AB - Minute dissection was performed on the ventral primary rami of the thoracic and the first lumbar nerves in the left half of an adult male cadaver in order to obtain more detailed data of the nerve supply to the muscles of the thorax and abdomen. The ribs, costal cartilages, sternum and vertebral column were removed to facilitate dissection. The origin, course and intramuscular distribution of the muscular branches of each nerve were examined in precise detail. The main findings are as follows: 1. The intercostal nerves The collateral branches were found in approximately 1/3 of the segments examined. Each branch rejoined the main trunk close to point in which the lateral cutaneous branch pierces through the intercostal muscles. Each lateral cutaneous branch arose from the main trunk proximal to the midaxillary line. The branch had some communications with the main trunk, and occasionally received a twig from the collateral branch. 2. The muscular branches 1) In general, the nerves to each intercostalis externus arose from the main trunk proximal to the costal angle. Additional slender twigs were occasionally found arising from the lateral cutaneous branch and joining the main supply nerve. 2) For the convenience of description of the nerve supply to the intercostalis interni et intimi, each intercostal nerve is divided into three parts from proximal to distal: part 1, the outside of the intercostalis intimus; part 2, between the intercostalis intimus and intercostalis internus; and part 3, inside the intercostalis internus. Branches to the intercostalis intimus arose in part 1, predominantly from the initial portion of the main trunk, either independently or with the branches of the intercostalis externus. In part 2, the branches generally originated as a common trunk with the branches of the intercostalis internus. 3) Branches to each subcostalis arose from the initial portion of the intercostal nerve belonging to the same intercostal space as the upper half of the muscle. The branches originated either independently or formed a common trunk with the branch to the intercostalis externus. 4) Branches to the transversus thoracis arose relatively independently from the third to sixth intercostal nerves. These branches ran inside of the nerves to the intercostalis internus and the common trunks of the intercostales internus and intimus branches, and entered the muscle from the anterior side. Each digit of the muscle was innervated by a nerve from the intercostal nerve corresponding to that costal attachment. The lower digit had an additional branch from the nerve of the upper adjoining space.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2528265 TI - Photodynamic therapy of experimental intraocular retinoblastomas--dose-response relationships to light energy and photofrin II. AB - The destructive effect on tumour tissue and on normal eye tissue of photodynamic therapy has been investigated in rat eyes containing fast growing retinoblastoma like tumours. Tumour response was described in terms of local control 90 days after treatment. The curability increased up to a maximum when large Photofrin II doses or light energy doses were administered. Early damage of conjunctiva or cornea also increased with large treatment doses and was an important limitation factor for improvement of the curability in the current model. The level of normal tissue damage decreased rapidly with increasing intervals between administration of Photofrin II and light, suggesting that conjunctival or corneal damage may not be a limitation factor 3-5 days after Photofrin II administration. A reciprocal relationship between light energy doses and Photofrin II doses was demonstrated both for curability and for the normal tissue damage. The results suggested that 2.5 mg/kg Photofrin II in combination with an extended light irradiation provoked less normal tissue damage than 10 mg/kg Photofrin II in combination with an equivalent shorter light exposure in order to obtain 15% curability of the animals. PMID- 2528266 TI - Elevated atrial natriuretic peptide in the brain and heart of Brattleboro rats. PMID- 2528267 TI - [Pathologic response of the retinal pigment epithelium. The effect of mucopolysaccharide in the subretinal space to phagocytosis. Part 5]. AB - Previously we reported that retinal pigment epithelial cells (RPE) showed different phagocytotic activity according to the charge characteristics of the surface of polystyrene particles which were injected into the subretinal space of albino rats. In this study we examined whether subretinal mucopolysaccharide controls RPE phagocytosis or not, using positive or negative charged particles (3 microns in diameter). The technique of ruthenium red staining, a cationic dye, was employed with special efforts to detect the relationship between acid mucopolysaccharide and particles at the electron microscopic level. Six hours after injection of the positive charged particles, the ruthenium red staining revealed fine granular electron-dense materials, coating the surfaces of many small substances surrounding polystyrene particles which were not yet phagocytized by RPE. On the other hand, there was no staining of negative ones which were already phagocytized by RPE. At 24 hours, no staining was observed on the surface of either particles. These findings suggest that an anionic property of mucopolysaccharide in the subretinal space controls the phagocytosis of RPE. PMID- 2528268 TI - [Ultracytochemical study of Ca++-ATPase activity in rabbit trabecular meshwork]. AB - Cytochemical localization of Ca++-ATPase activity in endothelial cells of rabbit trabecular meshwork was studied by the method of Ando et al. Ca++-ATPase activity was localized on the plasma membrane, mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and the basal cytoplasmic matrix, which includes the actin filament bundles beneath the basal plasma membrane. Ca++-ATPase activity associated with membranous organelles was considerably reduced by quercetin, an inhibitor of ATP dependent Ca++-transport. Changes in the concentrations of Ca (1-10mM) greatly influenced the activity of the cytoplasmic matrix. The most intense activity was obtained at 1mM Ca. These findings suggest that Ca++-ATPase of mitochondria and sarcoplasmic reticulum is related to the active uptake of Ca++ by these structures, and the reaction within actin filament bundles may reflect actomyosin ATPase activity. The function of cAMP and actomyosin ATPase reaction may be to provide contractility of the trabecular meshwork resulting in an alteration of outflow resistance of aqueous humor drainage. PMID- 2528269 TI - Moyamoya disease in Down syndrome. PMID- 2528270 TI - Eosinophils in bronchial asthma. AB - A lot of recent works point out the role of the eosinophil as one of the most harmful cells in asthma. Eosinophilic granules contain strongly basiec cytotoxic proteins. Some of these proteins were shown to damage airway epithelial cells and degranulate basophils and mast cells. The concentration of eosinophil-derived major basic protein (MBP) in sputum is a good marker for clinical state in asthma. Extracellular MBP deposits were detected in lung tissue from patients who died of asthma. Several pieces of evidence indicate that eosinophil is stimulated to secrete its content in asthmatic reaction. Besides basic proteins the eosinophil can release other potent mediators of inflammation i.e. leukotriene C4 and PAF. Glucocorticosteroids, adrenergic agonists, disodium cromoglycate and specific immunotherapy were shown to inhibit eosinophil function. PMID- 2528271 TI - Some mechanisms of immunosuppressive action of epinephrine in humans. AB - The studies were performed on 12 men (9 duodenal ulcer patients and 3 healthy controls) aged 19-23 years. They were given epinephrine in a dose of 0.014 mg/kg subcutaneously. Blood samples were drawn before and 30 and 150 min. after drug injection. The results obtained in the duodenal ulcer patients and controls revealed the same direction of changes. Epinephrine induced a significant increase in the absolute numbers of all investigated peripheral blood mononuclear cell subpopulations (total lymphocytes, T, Th, Ts, NK cells and monocytes) observed at 30 min. following injection, while they nearly normalized at 150 min. A Th/Ts cell number ratio slightly, but significantly, decreased. Epinephrine did not affect spontaneous IL-2 receptor expression and it significantly inhibited PHA-induced IL-2 receptor expression and IL-2 generation at 30 min. following injection. NK cell activity also decreased 30 min. after epinephrine administration and it was still lowered at 150 min. The drug very distinctly inhibited proliferative response in the autologous mixed lymphocyte reaction test. PMID- 2528272 TI - [Interleukin 1 (IL 1)]. AB - Interleukin 1 is an essential factor of macrophage dependent T cell activation and has a large quantity of other biological activities. This paper gives a review of present knowledge of Interleukin 1. In addition to biochemical properties, the IL 1 production and IL 1 activities, methods for determining of IL 1 and inhibitory factors of IL 1 induced T cell proliferation are described. PMID- 2528273 TI - Acne fulminans. AB - Acne fulminans is a unique type of acne that presents acutely and dramatically with fever, weight loss and papulopustular lesions that are highly inflamed, tender and, eventually, ulcerative. These lesions occur on the face, torso and upper extremities. Musculoskeletal symptoms and hematologic manifestations frequently accompany this disorder. Acne fulminans in a 13-year-old boy was effectively treated with isotretinoin, prednisone and minocycline. PMID- 2528274 TI - Adult immunizations. U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, Washington, D.C. AB - Pneumococcal vaccine should be administered at least once and influenza vaccine should be administered annually to all persons aged 65 and older and to persons in selected high-risk groups. Hepatitis B vaccine should be offered to homosexually active men, intravenous drug users and others at high risk of infection. All adults should receive a tetanus-diphtheria toxoid booster at least once every ten years. Vaccination against measles and mumps should be provided to all adults who lack evidence of immunity. PMID- 2528275 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide after myocardial infarction. AB - Plasma concentrations of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) after acute myocardial infarction were measured at fixed times during 48 hours in 38 patients admitted to the hospital within 4.4 hours after the onset of symptoms. Three hours after admission, the mean concentration of ANP was significantly lower than that at the time of admission. Thereafter it rose steadily until 15 hours after admission. ANP concentrations measured in each patient at the time of admission and the individual mean ANP concentrations during the first 48 hours after admission correlated weakly but significantly with the size of the infarct and the left ventricular function. Neither the site of the infarct, the occurrence of reperfusion, nor the number of coronary vessels affected influenced the ANP concentration. In 24 patients in whom cardiac catheterization was performed, no relationship between ANP concentrations and left ventricular pressures was observed. Determination of ANP concentrations seems to be of little value in assessing cardiac function after acute myocardial infarction. PMID- 2528276 TI - Simultaneous measurement of alpha-human atrial natriuretic factor (hANF) and NH2 terminal fragment of pro-hANF in essential hypertension. AB - A radioimmunoassay specific for the N-terminal fragment of prohuman atrial natriuretic factor (hANF) was established with the use of antiserum for pro-hANF (1-30). Plasma levels of alpha-hANF-like immunoreactivity (LI) and pro-hANF (1 30)-Ll in patients with severe hypertension who were receiving a normal sodium diet were 56 +/- 5 pg/ml and 2710 +/- 118 pg/ml, respectively; these levels were significantly higher than control values. Levels of these peptides in patients with mild hypertension were similar to those of control subjects. Mean blood pressure correlated closely with alpha-hANF-Ll levels (r = 0.56, p less than 0.001) and pro-hANF (1-30)-Ll levels (r = 0.66, p less than 0.001) in patients receiving a normal sodium diet. Plasma alpha-hANF-Ll and pro-hANF (1-30)-Ll levels were significantly decreased 3 days in mild hypertension and 7 days in severe hypertension after initiation of a low-sodium diet with a decrease in blood pressure as compared to the initial values. These results suggest that plasma N-terminal fragment levels are elevated in proportion to the degree of hypertension, and they can be reduced by means of effective antihypertensive treatment. PMID- 2528277 TI - Hemodynamic, hormonal, and renal effects of atrial natriuretic peptide in untreated congestive cardiac failure. AB - We report the effects of intravenous infusion of the atrial natriuretic peptide analogue, met-ANP-26 (2 micrograms/min for 2 to 4 hours), in four patients with cardiomyopathy and severe congestive cardiac failure who had not received any previous cardiac therapy. The average cardiac index before infusion was 1.8 L/min/m2. Severe sodium and water retention was confirmed by high levels of total body water and extracellular liquid, whereas renal blood flow and glomerular filtration rate were reduced. Plasma concentration of ANP, norepinephrine, cortisol, and growth hormone were significantly increased before infusion. The infusion had no significant hemodynamic effect. After 2 hours urine volume had increased significantly from 51 to 76 ml/hr, urinary concentration of sodium from 72 to 90 mmol/L, and sodium excretion from 4.5 to 8.2 mmol/hr. The infusion was accompanied by a significant increase in plasma ir-ANP from 193 to 980 pg/ml. There were no significant effects on the plasma concentrations of norepinephrine, epinephrine, aldosterone, vasopressin, cortisol, growth hormone, or prolactin and no significant change in plasma renin activity. After 2 hours of infusion one patient had a severe sinus tachycardia and another had a sinus bradycardia. Both arrhythmias disappeared without harmful effects soon after the infusion was stopped. PMID- 2528278 TI - Reversal of left ventricular dilatation, hypertrophy, and dysfunction by valve replacement in aortic regurgitation. AB - Although aortic valve replacement for aortic regurgitation relieves left ventricular volume overload, ventricular geometry does not consistently normalize. To assess the extent, determinants, and functional consequences of reversal of left ventricular dilatation and hypertrophy, 38 patients with severe aortic regurgitation were studied pre- and postoperatively by serial echocardiography and radionuclide cineangiography. Left ventricular end-diastolic dimension normalized in 58% of patients by 9 +/- 6 months postoperatively, at which time 50% of patients had normalized mass; cumulative normalization rose to 66% for end-diastolic dimension and 68% for left ventricular mass during further follow-up. All patients who had normalized end-diastolic dimension also had normal postoperative ejection fractions (mean 61 +/- 8%). In contrast, patients in whom the left ventricle remained dilated had a 42% prevalence of subnormal postoperative left ventricular ejection fraction. Preoperative left ventricular end-systolic dimension less than or equal to 55 mm identified 86% of patients in whom end-diastolic dimension normalized, whereas end-systolic dimension exceeded 55 mm in 81% of those with persistent dilatation; other proposed preoperative predictors of operative outcome correctly identified lower proportions (from 59% to 71%) of patients in whom left ventricular size did or did not normalize. In conclusion, aortic valve replacement resulted in normalized left ventricular chamber size and mass in two thirds of the patients selected for operation by current criteria; favorable geometric outcome is associated with persistence or recovery of normal left ventricular function. PMID- 2528279 TI - Postpartum myocardial infarction treated with percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. PMID- 2528280 TI - Comparison by quantitative angiographic assessment of coronary stenoses of one view showing the severest narrowing to two orthogonal views. AB - Quantitative coronary arteriographic measurements were compared in 2 orthogonal views with the view that clearly showed the stenosis at its most severe in 147 lesions from 147 patients before, immediately after and 6 months after PTCA. In 21 of 147 patients (14%), 2 views could not be measured for technical reasons, even though all angiographers had tried to film 2 views. Lesion severity was slightly worse for 1 compared with 2 views (3.3 +/- 3.3% before PTCA, 3.6 +/- 3.8% after PTCA and 3.1 +/- 3.8% at follow-up). Similarly, minimal diameter was less for 1 view (0.11 +/- 0.09 mm before PTCA, 0.15 +/- 0.12 mm after PTCA and 0.13 +/- 0.09 mm at 6 months). When this systematic difference was taken into account, the 2 methods were within +/- 0.1 mm for minimal diameter in 288 of 376 measurements (77%) and within +/- 0.2 mm in 96%. For percent diameter stenosis the 2 methods were within +/- 5% in 90% and within +/- 10% in all but 2.7% (10 of 376). Thus, for routine clinical assessment, measurement of 1 view is adequate; for research purposes orthogonal views may sometimes be required. PMID- 2528281 TI - Abrupt homeostatic responses to transient intracardiac occlusion during balloon valvuloplasty. AB - The present study analyzes the hemodynamics of intracardiac occlusive periods during balloon mitral or aortic valvuloplasty and compares them with immediate plasma levels of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF), vasopressin and renin activity. Forty-nine patients were studied; 33 of them had mitral stenosis and 16 had aortic stenosis. The mean age was 52 +/- 17 years. During dilations pressures were monitored from the ascending aorta and left atrium. Plasma levels of ANF, vasopressin and renin were serially determined at baseline, after diagnostic procedures, within 15 to 30 seconds after the first 2 occlusive dilations, and 1 and 7 hours later. There were no significant changes in plasma renin throughout the study stages. ANF and vasopressin significantly increased after the dilations. These hormonal changes were related to the significant hemodynamic changes observed during intracardiac occlusion. The left atrial pressure correlated directly and significantly (r = 0.54, p less than 0.001) with plasma ANF levels throughout the conditions. On the other hand, the plasma vasopressin also correlated (r = 0.76, p less than 0.001) with systemic pressure in an exponential fashion. These findings show that abrupt releases of ANF and vasopressin occur immediately after intracardiac occlusive periods as a response to the acute and transient hemodynamic changes observed. PMID- 2528282 TI - Evolving applications of coronary angioplasty: technical and angiographic considerations. AB - Coronary angioplasty (PTCA) is now applicable to selected patients with multiple vessel disease, total occlusions, tandem lesions and complex branch disease. Operator experience and skill contribute to a high success rate in complex anatomy, but equally important is appropriate case selection based on angiographic review of lesion morphology, branches, extent of coronary artery disease, and left ventricular function. Likewise, during and after the procedure similar angiographic assessment is important to determine resultant lesion morphology, branch anatomy, distal runoff, and adequacy of lesion dilatation. Thus, the outcome of angioplasty is dependent on the operator's ability to opacify the coronary arteries with minimal or no vessel/lesion overlap or foreshortening. Although coronary angiography has become more routine for many angiographers with the advent of angioplasty, the importance of high-quality angiography continues to be a major component for successful angioplasty. PMID- 2528283 TI - Management of high-risk coronary angioplasty. AB - Many advances have been made in the decade since Dr. Andreas Gruentzig performed the first percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. The technique, which started out as a nonsurgical revascularization procedure for 1-vessel disease, has spread to use in multivessel disease and acute myocardial infarction. Over the last several years, a number of refinements have made angioplasty safer. These techniques/devices have been applied to high-risk patients to allow angioplasty to be performed safely. High-risk patients include those with large amounts of myocardium at jeopardy from a single target lesion and those patients with reduced left ventricular function. The techniques/devices that enhance safety include: (1) the use of a perfusion balloon catheter, (2) infusion of oxygen-carrying substances to the distal coronary artery, (3) coronary sinus retroperfusion, (4) intraaortic balloon pump support, and (5) supported angioplasty. PMID- 2528284 TI - Immunophenotypic analysis of peripheral blood leukocytes at different stages of HIV infection. An analysis of asymptomatic, ARC, and AIDS populations. AB - Blood leukocytes from 51 patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) or AIDS-related syndrome (ARC) were immunophenotyped with the use of monoclonal antibodies and flow cytometry. The patients were placed into four clinically defined groups: HIV-positive asymptomatic (HIV+/A, 8); persistent generalized adenopathy (14); Kaposi's sarcoma (12); and opportunistic infections (17). Immunophenotypes were compared between groups. Statistically significant differences were seen in absolute lymphocyte counts, total T-cells, helper/inducer T-cells, the helper inducer subset of CD4+ lymphocytes, the suppressor inducer subset of CD4+ lymphocytes, activated helper T-cells, and natural killer cells. CD8+ cells and subsets were not statistically different between groups, possibly obscured by large ranges, but median values suggested differences. Results indicate a pattern of increasing or decreasing numbers of certain subpopulations as HIV infection progresses. PMID- 2528285 TI - Multiple arteriovenous malformations of the small intestine in a patient with protein S deficiency. AB - The authors report a case of arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) of the small intestine in a young patient with protein S deficiency. These disorders have not been previously reported to occur together. Protein S deficiency may cause thromboses in unusual sites, including the mesenteric veins. Several mechanisms linking protein S deficiency to the occurrence of AVMs in this patient are offered. PMID- 2528286 TI - Social support and adjustment in chronically ill and handicapped children. AB - The relationship between social support and adjustment was investigated in children with a chronic physical illness or handicap. Mothers of 153 children with juvenile diabetes, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, chronic obesity, spina bifida, or cerebral palsy reported on these children's family support, peer support, externalizing behavior problems, and internalizing behavior problems. Children reported as having high social support from both family and peers showed a significantly better adjustment than those with high social support from only one of these sources. Chronically ill or physically handicapped children without high support from both family and peers were reported to have significantly more behavior problems than children in general. Both family and peer support contributed negatively and independently to the variance in externalizing behavior problems, whereas only peer support did so for internalizing behavior problems. There were no interactions between type of support and either sex or age in predicting adjustment. PMID- 2528287 TI - An American Board of Orthodontics case report. Correction of Class I crowding in an achondroplastic patient. PMID- 2528288 TI - Diagnostic laparoscopy: a prospective review of 100 cases. AB - The perceived role of laparoscopy in the management of liver disease has changed because of the widespread use of image-guided biopsy. Laparoscopy, however, permits direct inspection of the liver surface and the abdominal cavity, as well as tissue sampling. In order to assess the utility of laparoscopy, and specifically, the diagnostic value of direct visualization of the liver surface, we prospectively collected information on 100 consecutive patients undergoing laparoscopy. The contribution of the laparoscopic findings to patient management and the predictive value of the laparoscopic diagnosis compared to histology were assessed. Laparoscopy had a 95% diagnostic yield. Liver surface characteristic consistent with malignancy, cirrhosis, or fibrosis were sensitive and specific predictors of histologic findings. We conclude that laparoscopy continues to be a valuable diagnostic procedure, especially in cases where accurate assessment of the liver architecture is required. PMID- 2528289 TI - Bullous pemphigoid-associated nephropathy: report of two cases and review of the literature. AB - Bullous pemphigoid has previously been reported in association with a variety of renal lesions. Two additional cases are presented in this report in which the nephropathy preceded the onset of the skin disease: one case with membranous glomerulopathy and one case of renal allograft rejection with concurrent membranous pathology. Both patients had positive immunofluorescence of the skin, typical of bullous pemphigoid. Institution of systemic corticosteroid therapy resulted in a satisfactory clinical response and cessation of the blistering process. These cases and a review of the literature suggest that the occurrence of an immune process involving these two different basement membranes is not merely coincidental. Many cases have been described in which the severity of the skin lesions paralleled that of the renal disease. Although the possibility of multiple distinct autoimmune processes cannot be excluded, anti-basement-zone antibody interactions or allograft rejection-induced immune stimulation are possible unifying mechanisms for the simultaneous skin and renal involvement observed in these two cases. PMID- 2528290 TI - Methylation at the D4S95 locus and predictive testing. PMID- 2528291 TI - Assessing dermatitis in epidemiologic studies: occupational skin disease among California grape and tomato harvesters. AB - We conducted a cross-sectional investigation to determine whether table grape harvesters, who have significant cutaneous contact with crop-associated materials that may cause skin disease, are more likely to develop dermatitis than are a control group of tomato workers performing mechanical harvesting with minimal cutaneous contact with crop-associated substances. A secondary aim was to develop methods for studying skin disease in farm workers, including a standard questionnaire and physical examination. California table grape workers (n = 183) and tomato workers (n = 43) completed an interviewer-administered questionnaire and waist-up physical examination at their work site during harvest operations. On physical examination, pustular eruptions such as acne and folliculitis were present in 30% of subjects, and eczematous rashes were noted in 10% of subjects. Irritant or allergic contact dermatitis was diagnosed in 2% of subjects. No significant differences in prevalence for these skin conditions were observed between the two groups of workers. In contrast to the physical examination results, grape workers were more likely than tomato workers to report a rash occurring in the previous 3 months (52% vs. 19%, p less than 0.001). Explanations for this discrepancy are discussed. The sensitivity of the questionnaire for current skin conditions was 31%, and the specificity was 94%. Improved sensitivity was seen for eczematous skin conditions (55%). We conclude that questionnaires provide an efficient means of assessing subject characteristics, but may have limited sensitivity for some dermatologic outcomes. PMID- 2528292 TI - Summary of safety and efficacy data on a yeast-derived hepatitis B vaccine. AB - Recombinant deoxyribonucleic acid technology has permitted the development of a vaccine from the hepatitis B surface antigen expressed in genetically manipulated yeast cells. Clinical trials with the vaccine were started in February 1984 and, to date, have involved more than 12,500 persons. The vaccine has been shown to be safe, well tolerated, and immunogenic in healthy persons of all ages and in special target groups likely to require vaccination. The vaccine's protective efficacy has been established in three groups at high risk for hepatitis B infection--homosexual men, institutionalized mentally handicapped patients, and neonates of mothers who are chronic carriers. Production of this vaccine on a large scale should make it less expensive than plasma-derived vaccines and thus broaden the indications for vaccination. PMID- 2528293 TI - Vaccination against hepatitis B in homosexual men. A review. AB - Homosexual men are at increased risk for infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV). Both plasma-derived and recombinant deoxyribonucleic acid vaccines have been shown to induce long-standing protective immunity in this population. However, non-responders and weak responders to HBV vaccine have recently become a problem among homosexual men because of an impaired antibody response due to previous infection with human immunodeficiency virus. In addition, human immunodeficiency virus infection predisposes persons to the development of a HBV carrier state following HBV infection. Vaccination still remains the most effective tool for preventing hepatitis B in homosexual men, although recent behavioral changes have apparently resulted in a decreased incidence of HBV infection among this group. PMID- 2528294 TI - Protective efficacy of a recombinant deoxyribonucleic acid hepatitis B vaccine in institutionalized mentally handicapped clients. AB - Mentally handicapped clients in institutions are at high risk for hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. In 1985, 770 mentally handicapped residents from four institutions in the Antwerp area were screened for HBV markers. The prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen was 10.3 percent (range, 6.1 to 15.2 percent); 42.3 percent (range, 11.5 to 60.1 percent) had antibodies to hepatitis B surface antigen and the hepatitis B core antigen. In 1986, 275 seronegative mentally handicapped residents were vaccinated intramuscularly in the deltoid region with 20 micrograms (1.0 ml) of a recombinant deoxyribonucleic acid yeast-derived hepatitis B vaccine (Engerix-B, SmithKline Biologicals, Rixensart, Belgium) on a zero-, one-, six-month schedule. Serum samples were collected at Months 1, 2, 7, 12, and 24 and were tested for HBV markers by radioimmunoassay. The seroconversion rates for hepatitis B surface antigen antibodies were 39 percent at Month 1 (geometric mean concentration, 6.4 IU/liter), 82 percent at Month 2 (geometric mean concentration, 23.4 IU/liter), 97 percent at Month 7 (geometric mean concentration, 1,034 IU/liter), and 96 percent at Month 12 (geometric mean concentration, 269 IU/liter). Among the 214 residents evaluated at Month 12, 69 percent had hepatitis B surface antigen antibody levels greater than 100 IU/liter (geometric mean concentration, 603 IU/liter). No significant adverse reactions were observed. Within the first seven months of observation, HBV infection was detected in eight of 271 subjects (estimated annual incidence of 5 percent). During this period, none of the clients developed clinical hepatitis or showed biochemical evidence of liver damage. Between eight and 24 months, no additional HBV infections were detected. These data can be compared with an annual incidence of HBV infection of 8.7 percent in a historical cohort of mentally handicapped residents in one of the four institutions. PMID- 2528295 TI - Immunogenicity of a yeast-derived hepatitis B vaccine in hemodialysis patients. AB - In a multicenter study of hemodialysis patients in Spain, the immunogenicity of a yeast-derived recombinant deoxyribonucleic acid hepatitis B vaccine was evaluated. Two different vaccination schedules were examined: zero, one, two, six months and zero, one, two, 12 months. Two different dose levels (20 micrograms and 40 micrograms) were also compared. No serious adverse effects were reported by any of the vaccinees; the most frequently reported reaction was soreness at the injection site. This study also indicated that higher concentrations of antibodies are attained when more frequent doses of vaccine are administered. The yeast-derived vaccine produced an immune response similar to that of the plasma derived vaccines. PMID- 2528296 TI - Hepatitis B vaccination of neonates and children. AB - Perinatal transmission of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) occurs in a high percentage of infants born to mothers who are acutely infected with the virus at the time of delivery or who are chronic carriers of the hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). The majority of infants who acquire the virus during the perinatal period and become HBV carriers have no clinical symptoms. However, there are reports of acute and fulminant hepatitis and even primary liver cancer occurring in a few HBsAg-positive infants. Immunoprophylaxis given to infants born to HBsAg-positive mothers at birth with a combination of hepatitis B immunoglobulin and hepatitis B vaccine is the most effective means of preventing the chronic HBV carrier state and its potential complications. In a multicenter trial in the United States, 85 to 90 percent of the children of HBsAg-positive mothers remained HBsAg-negative when treated with this combination regimen. Studies conducted outside the United States have yielded similar results. Other investigations indicate that the hepatitis B vaccine alone may be of value in preventing perinatal transmission of HBV in developing countries that are unable to afford hepatitis B immunoglobulin. PMID- 2528298 TI - Two augmentative communication systems for speechless disabled patients. AB - Patients may be rendered speechless because of many conditions, including cancer surgery, stroke, cerebral palsy, cervical cord and head trauma, neuromuscular paralysis, and intubation for respiratory failure. These same conditions may also be associated with decreased use of the hands, so that writing and other nonverbal forms of communication are also impaired. Lack of communication can frustrate the patient, the family, and health care personnel; increase the patient's isolation; and lead to poor patient cooperation, thus impeding progress in therapy and producing secondary psychiatric disturbances. Two communication programs that use a Commodore 64 computer are described in this paper. One communication program uses the alphabet and the other is based on the international Morse code. These programs are easy to use and inexpensive to establish, and they accommodate any switching device. PMID- 2528297 TI - Factors influencing the immune response to hepatitis B vaccine, booster dose guidelines, and vaccine protocol recommendations. AB - The clinical course and immunodiagnosis of hepatitis B infection is discussed. Immunization is necessary to prevent the clinical disease, the development of carriers, and the transmission of the hepatitis B virus to susceptible persons. Host factors that can curtail the immune response include increasing age, obesity, smoking cigarettes, and having a medical condition that compromises the immune system. Increasing the dose of vaccine, administering the inoculations intramuscularly, and giving the vaccine more frequently can enhance the immune response. The duration of immunity following vaccination has not yet been defined, but booster dose guidelines for selected groups are provided. Finally, recommendations for developing and implementing hepatitis B immunization protocols are presented. PMID- 2528299 TI - Equipment adaptations to improve workshop performance. PMID- 2528300 TI - The continua of scientific research designs. PMID- 2528302 TI - [Incidence of premature labor, characteristics of its course and optimization of management in areas with high birth rates]. AB - Based on retrospective study of 9671 labor histories and prospective investigation of 90 females whose pregnancy ended in preterm labor, the authors concluded that in their region the incidence rate of premature delivery was 4.37 per cent (5.02 per cent in the rural and 3.78 in urban areas). In case of high parity, this value was twofold higher. Premature labors were not infrequently complicated by an early rupture of amniotic fluid sac (36.6 per cent), continuous waterless period (20.0 per cent), fetal asphyxia, etc. If indicated, perineotomy is to be applied to multiparous females and those with short inter partum periods. Intensive handling of preterm labor should be a method of choice in case of uterine inertia, infections, signs of fetal well-being risk, extragenital pathology. Rationalized management of premature labor reduces the incidence of hemorrhages, pathologic parturition and the rate of perinatal mortality. PMID- 2528301 TI - Fibronectin in multiple sclerosis lesions. AB - Cryostat sections of central nervous system (CNS) tissues of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and other CNS diseases were stained with antibodies to fibronectin, a macrophage fibronectin receptor component, fibrin/fibrinogen, and albumin using immunoperoxidase. In active, but not inactive, MS plaques vessel fibronectin was increased (to approximately 57% of Factor VIII+ vessels) over uninvolved MS and normal control white matter (P less than 0.001 for both). Fibronectin was primarily localized to vessel walls and amount of staining correlated with degree of inflammation. Active plaques and necrotic lesions also had extracellular fibronectin and fibrin/ogen. These molecules and the fibronectin receptor were found on macrophages. Albumin was more widely and diffusely distributed in lesions than fibronectin. Thus, in addition to extravasation from damaged vessels, fibronectin may be deposited on or synthesized by endothelial cells and macrophages in the CNS. Fibronectin could facilitate monocyte adhesion to endothelial cell luminal surfaces, promote migration of mononuclear cells, and enhance myelin phagocytosis in MS lesions. PMID- 2528303 TI - Non-fatal carbon dioxide embolism during laparoscopy. PMID- 2528304 TI - Ventilatory and cardiovascular responses to sufentanil infusion in dogs anesthetized with isoflurane. AB - The ventilatory and hemodynamic responses to hypoxia, hyperoxia, and hypercapnia before and during sufentanil infusion were studied in 16 chronically tracheostomized dogs anesthetized with two concentrations, 1 and 0.5 minimal alveolar concentration (MAC) of isoflurane. Sufentanil was infused at a rate to obtain a constant end-tidal carbon dioxide (PETCO2) of approximately 50 mm Hg for each isoflurane level. Before the sufentanil infusion, the PETCO2 was increased to 50 mm Hg by adding CO2 to the inspired gas, to allow comparisons at isocapnic conditions. Sufentanil caused only minor hemodynamic changes but significantly reduced ventilation during both levels of isoflurane. The ventilatory response to hypercapnia decreased substantially, but there were no significant alterations in the ventilatory response to hypoxia. After sufentanil infusion, hyperoxia caused a larger decrease in minute ventilation and caused apnea in four dogs. These results suggest that administering sufentanil during isoflurane anesthesia causes a reduction in the contribution of the central chemoreflexes to ventilatory drive and, consequently, a relative increase in the contribution from the peripheral chemoreflexes. PMID- 2528306 TI - Mivacurium-induced neuromuscular blockade following single bolus doses and with continuous infusion during either balanced or enflurane anesthesia. AB - Mivacurium chloride (BW B1090U) was administered to 72 patients during their elective surgery. The eight groups (nine subjects per cell) in the 2 x 2 x 2 study design differed in three factors: the size of the mivacurium bolus dose administered, whether or not this dose was followed by an infusion of mivacurium, and in the technique used for the maintenance of anesthesia. Four groups received a single bolus dose of mivacurium, 0.15 mg/kg, and the remaining four groups received mivacurium, 0.25 mg/kg, administered iv in 15 s. Precisely 2 min later, tracheal intubation was attempted. Conditions were judged to be good or excellent on most occasions, but intubation was not possible for two of the patients in the low-dose and one in the high-dose groups. Four groups, two at each bolus dose, received no additional mivacurium: there was a dose-dependent decrease in the rate of spontaneous recovery following the bolus dose. The other subdivision of groups was the use of either barbiturate-nitrous oxide-narcotic (balanced) anesthesia, or enflurane-nitrous oxide anesthesia; the anesthetic technique did not affect the pattern of spontaneous recovery from either bolus dose. Four groups, again two at each bolus dose, subsequently received an infusion of mivacurium, adjusted to depress the twitch response by approximately 95%. Infusion rates averaged 6.0 micrograms.kg-1.min-1 in the groups receiving balanced anesthesia and 4.2 micrograms.kg-1.min-1 for those receiving enflurane anesthesia. Recovery following administration by infusion was slower than that observed following a bolus dose of mivacurium, 0.15 mg/kg but did not differ between the anesthetic groups.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528305 TI - Anaphylactoid reactions to vascular graft material presenting with vasodilation and subsequent disseminated intravascular coagulation. AB - This report describes five patients who had immediate adverse reactions following placement of a vascular graft. All had unusually persistent decreases in systemic vascular resistance, and four of these patients had bleeding as an early manifestation of this reaction. In two of three patients in whom the graft was replaced, uneventful recovery followed. Both patients in whom the graft was not replaced died. Blood samples from two of the patients demonstrated activation of complement and of the kinin system, whereas control patients did not demonstrate increased levels of activation products from these cascade systems. Recognition of this syndrome is important to patient survival, which appears to depend on rapid replacement of the graft. PMID- 2528307 TI - Does chloroprocaine (Nesacaine MPF) for epidural anesthesia increase the incidence of backache? PMID- 2528308 TI - Decrease of CD4 cell number and function in HIV-seropositive hemophiliacs in a longitudinal study. AB - The Regional Hemophilia Center in St. Louis initiated a prospective study beginning in 1982 to measure sequentially T-cell subpopulations and in vitro lymphoproliferative responses in hemophilia A patients. In a cohort of 106 hemophiliacs, the prevalence of HIV-seropositivity increased from 46.7% in 1982 to 74.5% by 1987. There was a persistent gradual decline over time of T helper/inducer (CD4) cells in HIV-seropositive hemophiliacs (P less than .01). This was reflected by an increasing percentage of hemophiliacs with abnormally low CD4 cells (less than 2 standard deviations below the mean of normal individuals) from 6.7% in 1983 to 52.4% in 1987. Function of CD4 cells, as estimated by in vitro lymphoproliferative responses to phytohemagglutinin (PHA) and tetanus toxoid stimulations also demonstrated a decline over the same years. Lymphoproliferative responses to PHA by HIV-seropositive hemophiliacs' mononuclear cells (MNC) declined from a 90.2% normal response in 1983 to a 71.7% normal response in 1987 (P less than .05). Decreased responses to stimulation with the soluble antigen tetanus toxoid were also seen from 1983 compared with 1987 (P less than .05). This was due to an increased percentage of HIV seropositive hemophiliacs' MNC, which were unresponsive to stimulation to tetanus toxoid (stimulation index less than 3.0) from 20.8% in 1983 to 41.0% in 1987. These findings indicate that HIV-infection was associated over time with a decline of CD4 number and function in a substantial portion of hemophiliacs. PMID- 2528309 TI - Distribution of persistent Salmonella typhimurium infection in internal organs of swine. AB - Experiments were conducted to establish a persistent Salmonella typhimurium infection in convalescent swine, and to determine rate of shedding and distribution of the organism in internal organs. Naturally farrowed Salmonella free pigs (n = 37) were orally exposed to S typhimurium when 7 to 8 weeks old. Fecal samples, tonsillar scrapings, and rectal swab specimens were examined bacteriologically for S typhimurium at weekly intervals after exposure until necropsy (maximum of 28 weeks after exposure). Necropsies of 1 to 4 randomly selected pigs were conducted at 2, 4, and 7 days and at 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, and 28 weeks after exposure. The following internal organs were examined bacteriologically for S typhimurium: liver, spleen, kidney, gallbladder, heart, lung, and stomach; segments of the intestinal tract with corresponding lymph nodes; lymph nodes from lymphocenters of the head and neck, thoracic and abdominal cavities, pelvic wall, and thoracic and pelvic limbs. Fecal samples were 83 to 100% culture-positive up to postexposure (PE) week 22, then varied from 14 to 67% positive until PE week 28. At least 60% of tonsillar swab specimens and 50% of rectal swab specimens were culture-positive up to PE week 20, after which they varied from 0 to 70% positive until PE week 28. At necropsy, S typhimurium was recovered most frequently from tonsils (93.5% positive), followed by segments of the intestinal tract from caudal portion of jejunum to rectum (71% recovery from cecum), and mandibular (54.8%) and ileocolic (45.2%) lymph nodes.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528310 TI - A modified retention suture technique with external and internal "booties" to close difficult abdominal wounds. AB - In a patient with acute hemorrhagic pancreatitis complicated by pancreatic abscess, closure of the abdominal wall 7 days following marsupialization was difficult owing to the marked distension and edema of the bowel wall, especially the transverse colon. A simple technique using retention sutures with internal and external rubber "booties" above and below the fascia was used to prevent injury to the edematous bowel. The rubber catheters, or "booties," were removed at the bedside, thus making it a simple procedure in a difficult situation. PMID- 2528311 TI - The resting electrocardiogram as a screening test. A clinical analysis. AB - PURPOSE: To review the evidence that a resting electrocardiogram (ECG) predicts cardiac disease in healthy persons and to discuss the role of this test in screening for coronary artery disease. DATA IDENTIFICATION: A manual search of the English-language literature using Index Medicus (1970-1988) and a bibliographic review of identified articles. STUDY SELECTION: We found 40 articles that described long-term survival of healthy individuals who either had had an abnormal finding on a resting ECG or had not had an abnormal finding. DATA EXTRACTION: We pooled the pertinent studies and calculated the relative risk for coronary artery disease if an ECG finding was present and the 95% confidence limits (CI) on the relative risk. RESULTS OF ANALYSIS: One reason for doing a screening SCG is to detect disease whose effects can be prevented by early treatment. In population studies of healthy middle-aged men, frequent ventricular premature beats, left axis deviation, left ventricular hypertrophy (ECG-LVH), and changes indicative of myocardial ischemia are all associated with a small but statistically significant increase in the risk of dying from coronary artery disease. There is no evidence that early detection of these findings leads to a clinical intervention that improves health outcomes. A screening ECG can also serve as a "baseline" tracing. Two studies have shown that the baseline tracing has little effect on decision making in the emergency room. CONCLUSION: The evidence does not support doing a screening ECG in men without evidence of cardiac disease or cardiovascular risk factors. PMID- 2528312 TI - Immunologic mechanisms and target antigens in testicular autoimmunity. PMID- 2528313 TI - Pathology of membrane proteins in sickle erythrocytes. PMID- 2528314 TI - Midline fascial preservation in double-pedicle TRAM flap breast reconstruction. AB - The addition of a second pedicle to the transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flap has enlarged the pool of potential candidates for breast and chest wall reconstruction with that method to include patients who smoke, those with midline abdominal scars, and others. Many surgeons are hesitant to try the double-pedicle technique, however, because of a concern about being able to close the fascial donor defect. Fortunately, what the flap requires for survival is blood supply, not fascia. This report describes two ways to preserve anterior rectus fascia in the donor area medial to the perforating vessels without compromising the blood supply to the flap. Consequently, primary closure of the donor defect in the fascia can generally be accomplished, making the use of synthetic mesh optional and encouraging wider use of the double-pedicle technique. PMID- 2528315 TI - Graft-versus-host disease following sibling allogeneic bone marrow transplantation--the Singapore experience. AB - Fourteen patients with haematological malignancies received allogeneic bone marrow transplantation from Major Histocompatility Complex compatible siblings. Five (35.7%) patients developed mild and 4 (28.6%) severe graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). There were correlations between the age of recipient (p less than 0.05), the degree of haematological support (p less than 0.1) and GVHD. The effects of the Mixed Lymphocyte Culture reactivity, donor/recipient sex match, cyclosporin A levels and the use of Total Parenteral Nutrition were not apparent. Two patients had relapses of their initial diseases. One of them did not develop any GVHD and the other only mild GVHD post bone marrow transplantation. PMID- 2528316 TI - Decrease of suppressor inducer (CD4+2H4+) T cells in multiple sclerosis cerebrospinal fluid. AB - T-lymphocytes in the cerebrospinal fluid of patients with multiple sclerosis are predominantly CD4+ (inducer) as opposed to CD8+ (suppressor/cytotoxic) T cells. The CD4+ lymphocytes can be subdivided into populations that express high densities of the CDw29 (4B4) determinant and have helper inducer function or express high densities of CD45R (2H4) determinant and have suppressor inducer function. In the present study, we characterized the nature of these CD4+ T cells in the cerebrospinal fluid of patients with multiple sclerosis by performing flow cytometric analysis on paired samples of blood and cerebrospinal fluid. There were significantly lower percentages of CD4+2H4+ T cells in the cerebrospinal fluid than in the peripheral blood (p = 0.001, paired t test). In contrast, there were increased percentages of helper inducer (CD4+4B4+) T cells in the cerebrospinal fluid (p = 0.001, paired t test), compared with the peripheral blood. Analysis of subjects with other inflammatory disorders of the central nervous system did not show significant decreases in CD4+2H4+ T cells in cerebrospinal fluid, though in some, decreases were also observed. These results indicate that the CD4+ T cells in the cerebrospinal fluid of patients with multiple sclerosis are predominantly helper inducer, as opposed to suppressor inducer T cells, and that the relative decrease of suppressor inducer cells in the peripheral blood of multiple sclerosis patients is not due to their migration to the cerebrospinal fluid. Furthermore, the increased numbers of helper inducer cells in the cerebrospinal fluid may contribute to local autoimmune processes in the central nervous system compartment of multiple sclerosis patients. PMID- 2528317 TI - Lymphocyte subsets in the cerebrospinal fluid in active multiple sclerosis. AB - We studied the relative number of lymphocyte subsets in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of patients with active multiple sclerosis. The cells were double-labeled with monoclonal antibodies and were studied using a fluorescence-activated cell analyzer. The number of Leu2+Leu15+ cells and Leu3+Leu18+ cells was markedly reduced in the CSF but not in the peripheral blood of the patients. The number of Leu3+Leu18+ cells was reduced also in the CSF of control patients (patients with other inflammatory or infectious neurological diseases). PMID- 2528318 TI - A quantitative investigation of the substantia nigra in Huntington's disease. AB - To elucidate the quantitative and topographical changes of neurons in the substantia nigra in Huntington's disease (HD), sections from 4 HD patients and 8 age-matched control subjects were stained with cresyl violet and the numbers and localization of pigmented and nonpigmented neurons in the substantia nigra were examined. This study revealed a decrease of about 40% (p less than 0.01 or p less than 0.05) in neuronal number and a shrinkage of both pigmented and nonpigmented neurons in the substantia nigra in HD. Pigmented neuron number was decreased markedly in the ventral cell group. Loss of the neurons occurred in the medial and lateral thirds, but relative sparing of the neurons was seen in the central part of the substantia nigra. In contrast, loss of nonpigmented neurons was relatively uniform in the substantia nigra although it was more severe in the central part. We conclude that a primary neuronal degeneration occurs in the substantia nigra in HD. PMID- 2528319 TI - Linkage to the Huntington's disease locus in a family with unusual clinical and pathological features. AB - We used the anonymous DNA probe, D4S10 (G8), known to be linked to the Huntington's disease (HD) locus, to confirm inheritance at that locus in a family in whom most affected individuals had atypical clinical and pathological features. Their clinical features were similar to the Westphal variant (usually seen in juvenile-onset HD) but they had onset in adult life, and in contrast to juvenile-onset HD, their course of illness was prolonged. Most family members had been repeatedly misdiagnosed during life because of the absence of chorea and prominence of long-tract signs. In 2 patients who died, neuropathological examination at autopsy revealed prominent involvement of brainstem and spinal cord structures, and in 1, mild neostriatal atrophy relative to duration of the disease. The study demonstrates the usefulness of genetic linkage analysis as a diagnostic tool in families with atypical forms of HD. This method allows study of phenotypic variations that can be inherited at or near the HD locus and implies either multiple alleles at the locus gene, modifiers of a single allele, or another locus in the same region causing a dominantly inherited neurodegenerative disease. PMID- 2528320 TI - Increases in helper inducer T cells and activated T cells in HTLV-I-associated myelopathy. AB - Using two-color flow cytometric analysis, we studied peripheral blood lymphocyte subsets in 15 patients with human T-cell lymphotropic virus type I-associated myelopathy. The percentage of CD4+ 4B4+ cells (helper inducer T cell) was significantly increased in the patients with the myelopathy, compared with 16 healthy control subjects who were seronegative for human T-cell lymphotropic virus type I. However, there was no difference in the percentage of CD4+ 2H4+ cells (suppressor inducer T cell) between the two groups. The ratio of CD4+ 4B4+ cells to CD4+ cells and CD4+ 4B4+ to CD4+ 2H4+ cells was also elevated in these patients. The percentage of CD4+ DR+ cells and CD8+ DR+ cells, both of which are phenotypically activated T cells, and the ratio of CD4+ DR+ cells to CD4+ cells and of CD8+ DR+ cells to CD8+ cells are also increased in the patients, compared with the control subjects. The percentage of CD4+ 4B4+ cells showed positive correlations with values of spontaneous proliferation of peripheral blood lymphocytes and serum IgG level in patients with the myelopathy. PMID- 2528321 TI - Cerebrospinal fluid quinolinic acid concentrations are increased in acquired immune deficiency syndrome. AB - Dementia and brain atrophy are established features of a large proportion of patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). To investigate a potential mechanism for atrophy in AIDS, we measured the concentration of the endogenous neurotoxin quinolinic acid in the cerebrospinal fluid of 10 patients with AIDS and found that they had 3-fold higher quinolinic acid concentrations than 9 age-matched control subjects: 53.8 +/- 10.7 pmol/ml versus 18.4 +/- 3.4 pmol/ml, respectively (p less than 0.005). It remains to be determined whether increased brain quinolinic acid concentrations are involved in the pathogenesis of the neuropathology of AIDS. PMID- 2528322 TI - ATP synthase (H+-ATPase): results by combined biochemical and molecular biological approaches. PMID- 2528323 TI - Dynamic, structural, and regulatory aspects of lambda site-specific recombination. PMID- 2528324 TI - Common and rare genetic variants of human red blood cell enzymes in Italy. AB - In the present paper we report on new data of the frequency of common and rare variants in the Italian population for ADA, AK-1, 6-PGD, EsA, EsB, EsD, PGM-1, PGM-2, SOD-A, AcP, GPT, and PGI. Moreover we present a comprehensive review of the available data on the electrophoretic variants of red cell enzymes in Italians. We find a considerable degree of genetic heterogeneity between the various populations living in the Peninsula and between the population of the Peninsula and of Sardinia. We also find that the estimates of the average heterozygosity are considerably smaller for the population of Sardinia as compared to Peninsula and Sicily. Finally, we report on the occurrence of several uncommon enzyme variants, which overall frequency is very similar to previously reported estimates for North European populations (Harris et al. 1974). PMID- 2528326 TI - N-linked oligosaccharides are responsible for rat striatal dopamine D2 receptor heterogeneity. AB - The glycoprotein nature of the binding subunit of the dopamine D2 receptor in rat striatum has been examined by photoaffinity labeling receptor preparations with N (p-azido-m-[125I]iodophenethyl)spiperone followed by treatment of crude membrane receptor or receptor fractions isolated from sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) polyacrylamide gels with endo- and exoglycosidases. The major photoaffinity labeled protein migrates as a heterogeneous species on 10% SDS polyacrylamide gels and ranges from 130,000 to 75,000 relative molecular mass (Mr). This heterogeneity can be explained by glycosylation of the receptor by complex-type N linked oligosaccharides. Three fractions of labeled receptor were isolated from SDS polyacrylamide gels over a range of 130,000 to 75,000 Mr; after digestion with peptide-N4-[N-acetyl-beta-glucosaminyl] asparagine amidase, all fractions yielded a single peptide approximately 40,000 Mr. Treatment of photoaffinity labeled membranes with alpha-mannosidase was without effect. The dopamine D2 receptor appears to contain substantial amounts of sialic acid as treatment of photoaffinity labeled membranes with neuraminidase increased the receptor mobility on SDS polyacrylamide gels to a species of 50,000-54,000 Mr. Treatment of the receptor with neuraminidase followed by endo-alpha-N acetylgalactosaminidase did not change the electrophoretic migration pattern from that seen after neuraminidase treatment alone, suggesting that the binding peptide contains no serine- or threonine-linked oligosaccharides. A smaller binding peptide of approximately 31,000 Mr is also apparent in crude photoaffinity labeled membranes. This material also contains N-linked oligosaccharide. Complete removal of N-linked oligosaccharide from the dopamine D2 receptor did not change the rank order potency of agonist and antagonist compounds to compete for [3H]spiperone binding to crude membrane fractions. The dopamine D2 receptor represents a highly glycosylated neural receptor. PMID- 2528325 TI - Hydroperoxides selectively inhibit human erythrocyte membrane enzymes. AB - Treatment of washed erythrocytes with tert-butyl hydroperoxide (0.5 mM, 10 min) inhibited basal Ca2+ + Mg2+-ATPase activity by 40% and calmodulin-stimulated activity by 54%. The inhibition was accompanied by the formation of methemoglobin and the aggregation of some membrane proteins into a high-molecular-weight polymer. Membranes, isolated from washed erythrocytes, showed a similar pattern of inhibition. Basal Ca2+ + Mg2+-ATPase activity was inhibited 50% at 10 min and 70% at 30 min while calmodulin-stimulated activity was inhibited 70% at 10 min and 84% at 30 min. Thiobarbituric acid-reactive products formed slowly during the first 10 min and then increased sharply between 10 and 30 min. The polymerization of membrane proteins was also observed during the tert-butyl hydroperoxide exposure. Inhibition of erythrocyte membrane enzymes was selective. The Na+ + K+ stimulated Mg2+ ATPase, like the Ca2+ + Mg2+-ATPase, was sensitive to membrane oxidation but the activities of Mg2+-ATPase and acetylcholinesterase were less inhibited by tert-butyl hydroperoxide. Acetylcholinterase was found to be very resistant to hydroperoxide treatment with less than 10% loss of activity. The effects of two other hyproperoxides on enzyme inhibition were studied also. Cumene hydroperoxide (0.5 mM) was found to be as potent as tert-butyl hydroperoxide but hydrogen peroxide at 10 mM did not produce thiobarbituric acid reactive products or inhibit Ca2+ + Mg2+-ATPase activity until after 20 min. The selective effects of peroxides on these enzyme activities are discussed. PMID- 2528327 TI - Anthraniloyl ATP, a fluorescent analog of ATP, as a substrate for dynein ATPase and flagellar motility. AB - We synthesized an anthraniloyl ATP (ant-ATP), which has a fluorescent anthraniloyl moiety at the OH group of ribose, to elucidate the mechanism of flagellar bend formation and its propagation in relation to the mechanochemical cycle of dynein ATPase. This fluorescent analog of ATP was efficiently hydrolyzed by 21 S dynein from sea urchin sperm flagella with Km = 7.6 microM, whereas the Km was 12 microM when ATP was used as the substrate. Similar Vmax values were obtained with both ATP and ant-ATP. Inhibition of the hydrolysis of ant-ATP by vanadate was a little smaller than that with ATP. Photosensitized cleavage of 21 S dynein heavy chains in the presence of ant-ATP and vanadate was also a little less efficient than that in the presence of ATP and vanadate. Ant-ATP also induced the disintegration of the trypsin-treated axoneme and the motility of demembranated sperm in a manner similar to ATP. When ATP was used as a substrate for the demembranated sperm, the apparent Michaelis constant for beat frequency (Km f) was 0.22 mM and the maximum frequency (fmax) was 36 Hz, whereas Km f) was 0.14 mM and fmax was 20 Hz for ant-ATP. Thus ant-ATP could be an efficient fluorescent analog of ATP for studying dynein ATPase and the mechanisms of flagellar motility. PMID- 2528328 TI - Purification of homogeneity and amino acid sequence analysis of a receptor protein for interleukin 1. AB - The interleukin 1 (IL-1) receptor from mouse EL-4 thymoma cells was purified to homogeneity by a method which utilized ligand affinity chromatography and classical chromatographic techniques. After solubilization of the receptor from intact cells with the zwitterionic detergent 3-[(3 cholamidopropyl)dimethylammonio]-1-propanesulfonate, the IL-1 binding activity was purified greater than 23,000-fold. Analysis of the purified protein by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, immunoblot, and ligand blot demonstrated that a single protein of molecular mass of approximately 80 kDa is the IL-1 binding polypeptide. The purified protein bound IL-1 with a dissociation constant of approximately 1.1 X 10(-10) M, which is indistinguishable from the affinity of the cell-bound receptor. The amino acid composition of this protein is strikingly similar to the composition deduced from the sequence of a cDNA coding for an IL-1 receptor from EL-4 cells. Protein sequence analysis of Staphylococcus aureus V-8 protease-derived peptides yields data consistent with the sequence proposed from cloned cDNA. These studies have demonstrated that the high affinity IL-1 receptor on EL-4 cells is the 80-kDa protein. PMID- 2528329 TI - Mutations in three of the putative transmembrane helices of subunit a of the Escherichia coli F1F0-ATPase disrupt ATP-driven proton translocation. AB - Three missense mutants in subunit a of the Escherichia coli F1F0-ATPase were isolated and characterized after hydroxylamine mutagenesis of a plasmid carrying the uncB (subunit a) gene. The mutations resulted in Asp119----His, Ser152--- Phe, or Gly197----Arg substitutions in subunit a. Function was not completely abolished by any of the mutations. The F0 membrane sector was assembled in all three cases as judged by restoration of dicyclohexylcarbodiimide sensitivity to the F1F0-ATPase. The H+ translocation capacity of F0 was reduced in all three mutants. ATP-driven H+-translocation was also reduced, with the response in the Gly197----Arg mutant being almost nil and that in the Asp119----His and Ser152--- Phe mutants less severely affected. The substituted residues are predicted to lie in the second, third, and fourth transmembrane helices suggested in most models for subunit a. The Gly197----Arg mutation lies in a very conserved region of the protein and the substitution may disrupt a structure that is critical to function. The Asp119----His and Ser152----Phe mutations also lie in areas with sequence conservation. A further analysis of randomly generated mutants may provide more information on regions of the protein that are crucial to function. Heterodiploid transformants, carrying plasmids with either the wild-type uncB gene or mutant uncB genes in an uncB (Trp231----stop) background, were characterized biochemically. The truncated subunit a was not detected in membranes of the background strain by Western blotting, and the uncB+ plasmid complemented strain showed normal biochemistry. The uncB mutant genes were shown to cause equivalent defects in either the heterodiploid background configuration, or after incorporation into an otherwise wild-type unc operon. The subunit a (Trp231----stop) background strain was shown to bind F1-ATPase nearly normally despite lacking subunit a in its membrane. PMID- 2528330 TI - [A case of multiple pulmonary metastases from rectal cancer which responded completely to combination chemotherapy using 5'-DFUR and MMC]. AB - A 68-year-old male, who had advanced rectal cancer with multiple pulmonary metastases, had undergone resection of rectal cancer operatively and was treated with a combination chemotherapy using 5'-DFUR (5'-deoxy-5-fluorouridine) and MMC (mitomycin C) for multiple pulmonary metastases. Nine months from the start of this therapy, pulmonary metastatic lesions disappeared completely on chest X-ray examination and computed tomography. This case corresponded to complete response (CR) according to the response criteria proposed by Koyama-Saitoh. No significant side effects were observed during this chemotherapy. From the results in this case, the combination chemotherapy was considered to be one of the effective antineoplastic therapies available for pulmonary metastasis from large bowel cancer. PMID- 2528331 TI - The effects of bergapten and sunlight on cutaneous pigmentation. AB - The effects of bergapten-containing preparations in sunlight-induced skin pigmentation were evaluated. Oil and lotion vehicles with bergapten/UV-B sunscreen or sunscreen alone were applied to the backs of subjects twice weekly for 4 weeks and the subjects were exposed to gradually increasing doses of midday sunlight. The degree of skin darkening was assessed by clinical examination, reflectometry, and light microscopy of skin biopsy specimens. At 5 weeks, 1 week after the last sunlight exposure, the sites treated with either the bergapten/UV B sunscreen lotion or the lotion vehicle were significantly darker than the sites treated with the sunscreen lotions without bergapten. Oil preparations produced less clearcut results, possibly because of a less potent sunscreen or because the bergapten did not leave the vehicle and absorb into the epidermis. In type I skin, the bergapten/sunscreen and the oil vehicle alone produced the same amount of tanning; both yielded more tanning than the sunscreen in oil by clinical examination. The findings were not confirmed by reflectometry or by light microscopy. Thus, we conclude that bergapten added to a UV-B sunscreen lotion preparation can increase skin pigmentation over the sunscreen alone when one is exposed to sunlight. The bergapten/UV-B sunscreen combination is a potentially useful product since one can develop a psoralen and UV-A-induced tan while being protected from UV-B-induced sunburn by the UV-B sunscreen incorporated into the formulation. PMID- 2528332 TI - Netherton's syndrome: ultrastructure of the active lesion under retinoid therapy. AB - A young female patient, expressing the symptom triad of Netherton's syndrome, i.e., ichthyosis linearis circumflexa Comel, trichorrhexis invaginata and other hair shaft defects, and atopic diathesis, has been treated successfully with the new retinoid preparation Etretin. Our electron microscopical study especially focused on the ultrastructural effect on the characteristic, active part of the skin lesions, which is only found within a narrow borderline just preceding the lesion's margin. In untreated skin, this part is characterized by dermal inflammation, immigrating inflammatory cells, and specific keratinization disturbances: synthesis of keratinization proteins is suppressed, serum exudates invade the epidermis, either filling the intercellular spaces of the upper spinous and the granular layer as finely granular, amorphous material, or they are partly phagocytosed and lie within intracellular, round-oval inclusions. The portions of the lesions lying towards the center are unspecific and represent recovery stages, ultrastructurally resembling stages of normal wound repair. Oral therapy with Etretin did not heal the basic defect, but drastically reduced exoserosis and the deposition of intra- and extracellular material. Keratinization seemed to normalize. The condition of the hair was also improved. PMID- 2528333 TI - Personal care attendants and severely disabled adults: attributions for relationship outcomes. AB - Although the personal care attendant (PCA) is identified as the single most important factor in maintaining the independence, health, and well-being of severely disabled adults (SDA), little research about the nature of the interpersonal relationship has been conducted. This study investigated the mutual perceptions of the SDAs and their PCAs of the outcome of their relationship and factors that promoted the outcome. Attribution theory was used to shape the study and guide analysis of the data. The majority of subjects reported mutually successful and satisfying relationships, and most attributed the outcome to their mutual ability, effort, or personal characteristics. PMID- 2528335 TI - Captopril therapy following percutaneous transluminal angioplasty for bilateral renal artery stenosis. AB - To establish an optimal approach for the patients with bilateral atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis, combined treatment involving percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty and oral captopril was applied. Five patients were examined for effects of the combined treatment on blood pressure and renal function. After percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty on one renal artery, the blood pressure (mean +/- SD) fell from 210/118 +/- 26/8 to 176/104 +/- 11/9 mm Hg without any deterioration of renal function. This reduced blood pressure was further lowered to 155/92 +/- 6/3 mm Hg by adding captopril therapy. This level of blood pressure has been maintained for an average of 37 months. Significant increases in serum creatinine concentration were not observed (124 +/- 27 vs 141 +/- 44 mumol/L), and renal size has been sustained. These results indicate that combined treatment with percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty and captopril is effective in reducing the blood pressure and preserving renal function as an approach for the patients with bilateral atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis. PMID- 2528336 TI - Thyroid dysfunction in individuals with Down syndrome. AB - A group of 138 community-based patients with Down syndrome were examined for evidence of autoimmune thyroid dysfunction at the time of their referral for routine health care services provided as part of a model program. Twenty-eight patients (20.3%) were found to have previously unrecognized hypothyroidism, and 2 patients (1.4%) had previously unrecognized hyperthyroidism. In addition, 66 patients were tested for thyroid autoantibodies, and 26 were found to have positive antimicrosomal and/or antithyroglobulin antibody test results. There was no statistically significant association between age or sex and the mean thyrotropin value or the presence of thyroid autoantibodies. The relationship between the mean thyroxine level and sex was mildly significant. Of the patients with hypothyroidism, 78.5% were female, and most were between the ages of 30 and 50 years. However, a higher-than-expected number of patients with autoimmune hypothyroidism were under age 30 years. These findings highlight the lack of adequate health care services available to persons with Down syndrome who live in the community. All persons with Down syndrome must undergo regular clinical and laboratory screening for the presence of thyroid disease. PMID- 2528334 TI - Long-term results of combined iliac balloon angioplasty and distal surgical revascularization. AB - Long-term results of combined use of iliac artery percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) and distal surgical revascularization for the management of multilevel occlusive disease were evaluated over a 12-year period. A total of 79 combined procedures were performed in 75 patients. All patients had tandem occlusive disease, with the inflow lesion felt to preclude a distal revascularization procedure alone. Revascularization was performed for incapacitating claudication in 17 (22%) and limb salvage indications in 62 (78%) cases. A mean resting iliac artery pressure gradient of 29 +/- 11 mmHg pre-PTA was reduced to 0.9 +/- 0.4 post-PTA. Major complications of PTA occurred in five (6%) cases, but four were successfully corrected at the time of the distal surgical procedure without alteration of the operative plan. Infrainguinal operations included 55 femoropopliteal or tibial bypass grafts, 18 femorofemoral grafts, and 6 profundaplasties. Mean follow-up was 43 months. By life table analysis, the 5-year primary patency rate of the distal surgical procedures was 76%; a secondary patency of 88% at 5 years was achieved by various means of reintervention. Mean pretreatment ankle/brachial index of 0.31 +/- 0.14 increased to 0.80 +/- 0.16 after operation (p less than 0.0001). The 5-year limb salvage rate was 90%. There were no operative deaths. We conclude that in carefully selected patients, combined use of iliac PTA and distal surgical reconstruction is effective and durable, safely reducing the extent of surgical intervention while reliably increasing the comprehensiveness of revascularization. PMID- 2528337 TI - Central nervous system lymphomas. Immunohistochemical and clinicopathologic study of 26 autopsy cases. AB - Twenty-six malignant lymphomas involving the central nervous system were studied. Eleven were primary (P) and 15 were systemic (S). Eight cases (3 P, 5 S) occurred in immunocompromised patients. Age at presentation in immunocompromised patients was typically younger than in the nonimmunocompromised patients. Presenting complaints of central nervous system involvement included headache, seizures, personality changes, memory lapses, ataxia, cranial nerve symptoms, and impaired consciousness. Cerebrospinal fluid involvement was seen only in 3 S cases. In 8 of the P cases, the diagnosis was first established at autopsy; in 6 of the S cases, central nervous system involvement was first documented at autopsy. Survival was longer in treated patients than in those who received no therapy (5 months in P cases and 9.3 months in S cases; 2.3 months without therapy). Regardless of therapy, the average survival of immunocompromised patients was 2.4 months. The majority of cases were multifocal. Of the P cases, 1 was of low histologic grade, 9 were of intermediate grade, and 1 was of high grade. Of the S cases, 5 were of low grade, 9 were of intermediate grade, and 1 was of high grade. Immunophenotypic studies were performed on formalin-fixed, paraffin embedded tissue with antisera against common leukocyte antigen (all reactive), B cell markers (L26, MB2, LN1, and LN2), T-cell markers (UCHL1 and MT1), Leu-M1, Leu-7, and HLA-DR (LN3). Two S cases were of T-cell phenotype; all others were of B-cell derivation. Eleven cases were HLA-DR positive (all of B-cell phenotype). One T-cell lymphoma was reactive for Leu-7. All cases were nonreactive for Leu M1. All cases in immunosuppressed patients and all P cases were of B-cell phenotype. PMID- 2528338 TI - Peripheral laser-assisted balloon angioplasty. Initial multicenter experience in 219 peripheral arteries. AB - In this multicenter clinical series of peripheral laser-assisted balloon angioplasty with an argon laser-heated, metallic-capped fiberoptic, angiographic and clinical success was achieved in a total of 155 (71%) of 219 attempted lesions. When the anatomy of the lesion was subjectively categorized by the angiographer into those considered possible or impossible to treat by conventional balloon angioplasty, clinical success was achieved in 116 (78%) of 149 lesions considered possible to treat with balloon angioplasty (39 [95%] of 41 stenoses and 77 [71%] of 108 occlusions). More importantly, clinical success was achieved in 39 (56%) of 70 lesions considered impossible to treat by conventional means. The incidence of complications, including vessel perforation (4.1%), with this new technique was equal to that reported for conventional balloon angioplasty, decreased with operator experience, and was less than that reported for argon laser angioplasty with bare fiberoptics. Thus, laser thermal angioplasty with a laser-heated, metallic-capped fiberoptic is a safe procedure that is easily learned by physicians skilled in interventional techniques. It allows for nonsurgical treatment of lesions considered difficult or impossible to treat by conventional balloon angioplasty. PMID- 2528339 TI - Accuracy of self-reported disability in patients with parkinsonism. AB - For the patient, the most important aspect of parkinsonism is the degree to which the disease interferes with daily living. The patient's self-report may be the only way in which such information can be obtained. Depression and cognitive impairment, however, may influence that self-report. In the present study, three ratings of disability, from the patient, a relative, and an independent observer, showed high levels of agreement. The patients' cognitive function made a small but significant contribution to the accuracy of their self-report judged against the relative's rating. Depression, however, played no role. Agreement between patients and relatives for individual items on the disability questionnaire was reasonably high. The results suggest that patients with parkinsonism can provide accurate self-report of their level of disability, even in the presence of depression and cognitive impairment. PMID- 2528341 TI - A modified Thomas cannula for duodenal cannulation in pigs. PMID- 2528340 TI - Serum thymidine kinase as a marker of disease activity in patients with multiple myeloma. AB - Serum thymidine kinase (STK) levels have recently been used to detect tumour regression and progression in a number of hematological malignancies. In this study, patients with myeloma were monitored longitudinally for STK and several other potentially useful tumour markers to determine which laboratory parameters are the most useful for differentiating between stable and progressive disease. STK was determined by radioenzyme assay, lymphocyte surface markers were analysed by flowcytometry, plasma cell labelling index (LI) by immunofluorescence with anti BU-1, serum B2-microglobulin (SB2M) by radioimmunoassay and M proteins by radial immunodiffusion. Detailed multiparameter longitudinal investigations of 5 patients and ongoing studies of 70 other patients suggest that STK is a more reliable marker of progressive disease than either SB2M, LI, M-protein or CD10 positive lymphocytes. A rise in STK during the emergence of progressive disease at least paralleled and usually preceded any change in the other parameters which often did not change at all. All samples from patients with progressive disease (n = 29) had a STK above the normal range (0-5U/l) whereas 76% of patients in clear stable disease had a STK within the normal range. All samples (n = 34) from patients with light chain isotype suppression (LCIS) had STK values of less than 12 U/L and 82% of samples (n = 33) from patients without LCIS had a STK above the normal range (0-5U/L). The correlation between STK and LI was r = 0.65; p less than 0.001 (n = 21). The radioenzyme assay for STK is simple, reproducible and a valuable tool for monitoring patients with myeloma and when used in conjunction with other clinical and laboratory investigations, aids in the separation of patients with stable myeloma from patients whose disease is progressive. PMID- 2528342 TI - Huntington's Disease Registers. PMID- 2528343 TI - Luminescence emission from Neurospora copper metallothionein. Time-resolved studies. AB - The luminescence lifetime of Cu-metallothionein from the fungus Neurospora crassa has been studied by the frequency-domain emission technique. Lifetimes of 10.3 and 3.4 microseconds have been found for the protein in the absence and in the presence of oxygen respectively. Binding of Hg(II) results in a quenching of the luminescence correlated to the shortening of lifetime to 0.3-0.4 microsecond. No quenching by oxygen is found for the Hg(II)-Cu-metallothionein adduct. By analogy to model compounds, luminescence emission is attributed to a triplet excited state of a Cu(I)-to-sulphur charge-transfer complex. The comparison of bimolecular quenching constants for O2 and acrylamide indicates a highly compact structure of the protein. PMID- 2528344 TI - Structural and immunological studies of keratan sulphates from mature bovine articular cartilage. AB - Two populations of alkaline-borohydride-reduced keratan sulphate (KS) chains were prepared from the two peptido-keratan sulphate trypsin fragments of proteoglycan aggregates isolated from bovine femoral head cartilage (6-year-old animals). Each population was separated by high-performance ion-exchange chromatography on a Pharmacia Mono-Q column into eight pools, Q1-Q8. These were analysed by gel permeation chromatography, radioimmunoassay with the monoclonal antibody MZ15, and 500 MHz 1H n.m.r. spectroscopy. Upon chromatography on Sephadex G-75 the Mono Q fractions were shown to increase in hydrodynamic size progressively from Q1 to Q8 for both KS populations. For each population the strongest antigenic response with the anti-KS monoclonal antibody MZ15 was expressed by the two fractions of greatest size and charge density, Q7 and Q8. Proton n.m.r. spectroscopic studies on the two series of fractions demonstrated: (i) a progressive increase in the level of galactose sulphation from Q1 to Q8, (ii) the presence of approximately one alpha(1-3)-linked fucose residue per chain in every sample, and (iii) the presence of N-acetylneuraminic acids in three discrete environments, two alpha(2 3)- and one alpha(2-6)-linked in every sample. The results are discussed in terms of a possible heterogeneity in the carbohydrate-protein linkage region of keratan sulphates from bovine articular cartilage. PMID- 2528345 TI - Identical subcellular distribution of palmitoyl-CoA and arachidonoyl-CoA synthetase activities in human blood platelets. AB - Fractionation of human blood platelets showed that palmitoyl-CoA synthetase and arachidonoyl-CoA synthetase activities had an identical distribution among subcellular fractions. The activity was highest with arachidonic acid as substrate in all fractions, with an enzyme activity of 50 nmol/min per mg of protein, in a 'dense-tubular-system'-enriched fraction. The ratio activities with arachidonate and palmitate as substrates was about 1.5 in all fractions. Heat inactivation did not distinguish between arachidonoyl-CoA synthetase and a palmitoyl-CoA synthetase. On the other hand, heat inactivation indicated two pools of long-chain acyl-CoA synthetases: one in a mitochondria- and one in the dense-tubular-system-enriched fraction. PMID- 2528347 TI - AIF4-induced inhibition of the ATPase activity, the Ca2+-transport activity and the phosphoprotein-intermediate formation of plasma-membrane and endo(sarco)plasmic-reticulum Ca2+-transport ATPases in different tissues. Evidence for a tissue-dependent functional difference. AB - AIF4- inhibits the (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-ATPase activity of the plasma-membrane and the sarcoplasmic-reticulum Ca2+-transport ATPase [Missiaen, Wuytack, De Smedt, Vrolix & Casteels (1988) Biochem. J. 253, 827-833]. The aim of the present work was to investigate this inhibition further. We now report that AIF4- inhibits not only the (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-ATPase activity, but also the ATP-dependent 45Ca2+ transport, and the formation of the phosphoprotein intermediate by these pumps. Mg2+ potentiated the effect of AIF4-, whereas K+ had no such effect. The plasma membrane Ca2+-transport ATPase from erythrocytes was 20 times less sensitive to inhibition by AIF4- as compared with the Ca2+-transport ATPase from smooth muscle. The endoplasmic-reticulum Ca2+-transport ATPase from smooth muscle was inhibited to a greater extent than the sarcoplasmic-reticulum Ca2+-transport ATPase of slow and fast skeletal muscle. PMID- 2528348 TI - Isoelectric and mass characterization of human platelet thromboxane A2/prostaglandin H2 receptors. AB - To further characterize the human thromboxane A2 (TXA2)/prostaglandin H2 (PGH2) receptor, preparative isoelectric focusing (IEF) was performed on solubilized platelet membranes. TXA2/PGH2 receptors, assayed by specific binding of the TXA2/PGH2 antagonist [125I]PTA-OH, were electrofocused at pH 5.6. Scatchard analysis of IEF fraction pH 5.6 revealed a 180-fold concentration of TXA2/PGH2 receptors (Bmax = 3650 +/- 228 pM/mg focused, 19 +/- 4 pM/mg unfocused) with no change in binding affinity (Kd = 47 +/- 7 nM focused, 36 +/- 14 nM unfocused). SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of photoaffinity-labelled electrofocused receptors revealed concentration of specifically labelled proteins having molecular masses of 49,000 and 27,000 Daltons. These results suggest that the human platelet TXA2/PGH2 receptor has a pI of 5.6, molecular mass of 49,000 Daltons, and may exist as a dimer. Preparative IEF should prove useful in the eventual purification of this receptor. PMID- 2528346 TI - Lipocortin-independent effect of dexamethasone on phospholipase activity in a thymic epithelial cell line. AB - In the cloned rat thymic endocrine epithelial cell line TEA3A1, treatment with dexamethasone leads to decreased levels of prostaglandin E2, prostaglandin F2 alpha, and thromboxane B2. Dexamethasone treatment also leads to a decrease of both calcium-dependent and calcium-independent phospholipase A2 activity measured in a cell-free assay. Dexamethasone-treated cells also have increased levels of lipocortin-I, a putative modulator of phospholipase A2 activity. The property of calcium-dependent binding of lipocortin to the particulate fraction was used to prepare cytosolic and particulate subcellular fractions which contained phospholiphase A2 activity but no lipocortin-I. Dexamethasone decreased phospholipase A2 activity in both cytosolic and particulate fractions even in the absence of lipocortin, suggesting the presence of a lipocortin-independent mechanism. PMID- 2528349 TI - Isolation and sequence determination of rat cardiac natriuretic peptide. AB - We have isolated a cardiac natriuretic peptide of 5K daltons from the rat atrium and determined its amino acid sequence. The 5K cardiac natriuretic peptide was elucidated to be a 45-amino acid peptide with the sequence of S-Q-D-S-A-F-R-I-Q-E R-L-R-N-S-K-M-A-H-S-S-S-C-F-G-Q-K-I-D-R-I-G-A-V-S-R- L-G-C-D - G-L-R-L-F by sequencing the native peptide and its lysyl endopeptidase digests. The sequence of this peptide was identical to the amino acid sequence [51-95] of the rat brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) precursor deduced from the cDNA sequence. The 5K cardiac natriuretic peptide, or BNP[51-95], was identified as the major storage and secretory form derived from the BNP precursor in the rat heart. PMID- 2528350 TI - Effects in vivo and in vitro of benthiocarb on developing rat (Wistar strain) brain Mg2+ and Ca2+-ATPases. AB - Effects in vivo and in vitro of benthiocarb on developing rat brain Mg2+ and Ca2+ ATPases have been studied. Decreased activities of Mg2+ and Ca2+-ATPases suggests impairment in energy synthesis and utilization processes in developing CNS of rat during benthiocarb poisoning. Effects in vitro of benthiocarb on these enzymes revealed that Km (Michaelis-Menten Constant) of both the enzymes increased whereas Vmax (Maximal velocity) decreased significantly indicating mixed type of inhibition on these enzymes by benthiocarb. PMID- 2528351 TI - Heparitinases facilitate separation of disaccharides of heparan sulfate isomers in human arteries using high-performance liquid chromatography. AB - The constituents of heparan sulfate isomers in human arteries were analysed at the disaccharide unit by high-performance liquid chromatography. Heparitinases I and II facilitated differentiation of six unsaturated disaccharides from heparan sulfate isomers. The variously sulfated disaccharide components of these heparan sulfate isomers were detected after digestion with heparitinases I and II. The heparan sulfate isomers in the aorta and pulmonary arteries were found to consist of various disaccharide units. These heparan sulfate isomers in the arteries are apparently formed during the process of aging and may influence arterial matrix components. PMID- 2528352 TI - Disability and depression in rheumatoid arthritis. A multi-trait, multi-method investigation. AB - In a sample of 107 patients with classic or definite rheumatoid arthritis (RA), we examined the convergent and divergent validity of measures of disability and depression. Scores on the self-report Disability index of the Health Assessment Questionnaire were highly correlated with physical therapist and spouse ratings of disability. Although Health Assessment Questionnaire disability scores were significantly correlated with self-reported and interviewer-assessed ratings of depression, these correlations were significantly smaller. Factor analyses of the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and rheumatologist ratings of BDI items indicated that this measure is highly contaminated by the inclusion of items reflecting RA disease severity. A dysphoric mood subcomponent of the BDI may be a more valid measure of depression in RA populations. Although depression and disability are clearly positively correlated in RA patients, depression scales that include somatic items are likely to yield an overestimate of the association. Finally, self-reported pain intensity was more clearly related to disability and reported recent disease activity than to depression. PMID- 2528353 TI - Serum IgG antibodies to C1q in hypocomplementemic urticarial vasculitis syndrome. AB - Urticaria, angioedema, and arthritis are cardinal features of hypocomplementemic urticarial vasculitis syndrome (HUVS). Considered to be an immune complex mediated disorder, HUVS has been differentiated from systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), based on its clinical manifestations and the C1q precipitin (C1q-p) reaction, which is manifested as gel precipitation of C1q by a small percentage of HUVS IgG molecules. This phenomenon has been attributed to an Fc region abnormality, and the responsible IgG molecules are said to possess C1q-p activity. We purified IgG from 4 HUVS patients and confirmed that HUVS IgG contains C1q binding activity. F(ab')2 fragments from these patients also bound to C1q, as measured by 2 different C1q binding methods at physiologic ionic strength; HUVS IgG Fc fragments did not bind to C1q. Preincubation of HUVS F(ab')2 fragments with antibody to human F(ab')2 prevented subsequent binding to C1q. We conclude that IgG antibodies to C1q are present in HUVS serum, and it is likely that these antibodies are C1q-p. Because the clinical manifestations of HUVS and the presence of anti-C1q antibodies have been described in patients with SLE, our findings support the concept that HUVS is an autoimmune syndrome related to SLE. PMID- 2528354 TI - High-grade atrioventricular heart block in an adult with systemic lupus erythematosus: the association of nuclear RNP (U1 RNP) antibodies, a case report, and review of the literature. AB - High-grade atrioventricular heart block (HGAVB) occurring as a manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus is an exceedingly rare event. We describe a patient with HGAVB who had myositis and antibodies to nuclear RNP (previously associated with myocarditis). A review of the literature on HGAVB associated with systemic lupus erythematosus is also presented. PMID- 2528355 TI - Clinical experience with an ethinyl estradiol-desogestrel oral contraceptive. AB - Desogestrel (150 micrograms), a potent progestogen virtually devoid of androgenic activity, was used in combination with 30 micrograms ethinyl estradiol as an oral contraceptive preparation (Marvelon). 219 women completed a total of 4074 cycles, and the use-effectiveness was 0.58 Pearl Units. Serious side effects were not observed. The drug-related discontinuation index was 12.8% in six months. PMID- 2528356 TI - Molecular evolution of H+-ATPases. I. Methanococcus and Sulfolobus are monophyletic with respect to eukaryotes and Eubacteria. AB - The classification of methanogenic bacteria as archaebacteria based on 16 s rRNA sequence analysis is currently in dispute. To provide an alternative molecular marker, the polymerase chain reaction technique was used to amplify a 930 bp fragment of Methanococcus thermolithotrophicus genomic DNA corresponding to the catalytic domain of the membrane H+-ATPase. The deduced amino acid sequence was 54-58% identical to the approximately 70 kDa subunits of Sulfolobus acidocaldarius and the eukaryotic vacuolar-type H+-ATPase, and only 29% identical to the beta subunit of the eubacterial-type F0F1-ATPases. Interestingly, a highly conserved aspartate residue in the phosphorylation domain of E1E2-ATPases (P type) is conserved in the Methanococcus sequence, but is absent from all other known vacuolar and F0F1-ATPases. This suggests that the H+-ATPase of M. thermolithotrophicus, like that of M. voltae, may have a phosphorylated intermediate, despite belonging to the vacuolar-type class of proton pumps. Phylogenetic analysis using Felsenstein's maximum likelihood method and Lake's evolutionary parsimony method confirmed that the H+-ATPases of the two archaebacteria, Methanococcus and Sulfolobus, when compared to eukaryotic vacuolar-type ATPases and eubacterial F0F1-ATPases, form a monophyletic group. PMID- 2528357 TI - A third mechanism of serum resistance in Escherichia coli. AB - 15 serum-resistant strains of E. coli group III characterized by binding of both C3 and factor H in the immunofluorescence test were studied in respect of the mechanism on which serum resistance is based in these strains. Serum resistance in 7 strains were found to be established by one of the mechanisms first described by Joiner et al. or by Kubens et al. The classification of these strains should therefore be altered. The binding and consumption of C5 as well as the binding of C9 was investigated for the remaining 8 strains. All strains were found to bind the two complement components which are part of the membrane attack complex (MAC) without causing cell death. These results suggest that resistance in strains of group III is based on a third mechanism which shows similarities to data obtained for other species but has not yet been described for E. coli. PMID- 2528358 TI - The importance of the crystalline surface layer protein antigens of rickettsiae in T-cell immunity. AB - Studies in animal models have demonstrated that solid immunity to typhus rickettsiae is dependent on immune T cells. In addition, the surface protein antigen (SPA) of typhus rickettsiae has been shown to be an effective immunogen, protecting vaccinated animals against subsequent challenge with virulent organisms. In the present studies we describe three classes of human lymphocytes which are capable of lysing cells infected with typhus rickettsiae. The first class is CD3,8-positive and is capable of specially lysing both HLA-matched and mismatched targets infected with typhus rickettsiae. Since this cytotoxic effector can be generated with IL-2 as well as with SPA it appears to be a lymphokine-activated killer (LAK). The second class of lymphocytes is CD3,4 positive and is capable of producing gamma interferon in response to the SPA of typhus rickettsiae. Gamma interferon in turn can cause the lysis of cells infected with typhus rickettsiae as well as inhibit intracellular rickettsial growth. A third cytotoxic effector which is CD3,4-positive and which is capable of lysing only HLA-matched targets infected with typhus rickettsiae was generated with a sonicated antigen, and its fine antigenic specificity is not known at present. We conclude that the SPA is an immunologically important protein for the human host and represents an outstanding candidate for a subunit vaccine against typhus. PMID- 2528359 TI - Relationship between left ventricular mass and noninvasive monitoring of blood pressure. AB - We studied the relationship between left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and blood pressure (BP) monitored during 24 hours in 35 normotensive and 58 hypertensive patients with no treatment for more than three months. We found a close correlation between LVMI and the average daytime systolic BP (r = 0.68). Other parameters derived from BP monitoring were also correlated with LVMI: daytime diastolic BP (0.54), nighttime systolic and diastolic BP (0.61 and 0.54), pulse pressure (0.58), the average of the five highest systolic and diastolic BP (0.57 both), and the percentage of systolic BP above 140 mm Hg (r = 0.64). However, in a stepwise multiple regression analysis only daytime systolic BP was independently correlated to LVMI. The standard deviation of systolic BP was not significantly correlated to LVMI. The same positive correlation between daytime systolic BP and LVMI was found in normotensive and hypertensive patients, males and females, and patients with and without left ventricular hypertrophy. So, at least regarding the prediction of the degree of left ventricular hypertrophy, the average systolic BP during daytime seems to be the only valuable parameter to look at in ambulatory BP monitorings of untreated hypertensive patients. PMID- 2528360 TI - Importance of left ventricular mass as a predictor of cardiovascular morbidity in hypertension. AB - Arterial hypertension is a powerful risk factor for cardiovascular disease, but the ability to use blood pressure measurements to predict complications in individual patients or small groups is limited. One possible approach to identifying hypertensive patients at high risk is based on the observation that the presence of electrocardiographic left ventricular hypertrophy (ECG-LVH) identifies individuals at severalfold higher risk than other individuals with similar blood pressure but no ECG-LVH. The suggestion that the increased risk associated with ECG-LVH is related to increased left ventricular (LV) mass has been supported by autopsy studies in which heart weight was found to be increased in patients dying of cardiovascular diseases. Unfortunately, the usefulness of LVH to predict prognosis in hypertension has been limited practically by the fact that ECG-LVH is present in only 3% to 8% of average hypertensive patients, and by the possibility that certain electrocardiographic patterns, particularly involving repolarization, might reflect undiagnosed coronary artery disease rather than myocardial hypertrophy. The development over the past dozen years of anatomically validated echocardiographic methods of measuring LV muscle mass has provided a probe that is more sensitive than electrocardiography for detection of hypertensive LVH. This method has now been utilized in studies which suggest that LV mass may be more important than blood pressure as a predictor and possible determinant of cardiovascular morbid events. It is the purpose of this review to evaluate critically these findings and other clinical and experimental evidence related to the prognostic significance and possible mechanisms of risk associated with increased LV mass. PMID- 2528361 TI - Diagnosis and management of subclavian vein thrombosis occurring in association with subclavian cannulation for hemodialysis. AB - With the aim of improving the diagnosis and treatment of subclavian vein thrombosis, associated with subclavian cannulation for hemodialysis, we performed Doppler examination of the subclavian vein and clinical inspection of the ipsilateral arm at every dialysis in 50 consecutive patients who received subclavian hemodialysis catheters over 1 year. Edema of the arm and disappearance of the subclavian vein bruit correctly detected 3 cases of subclavian vein obstruction which were confirmed by X-ray venograms. All 3 cases failed to respond to systemic heparin, but were successfully recanalized within 36 h with continuous local streptokinase infusion at a rate of 10,000 U in 1 ml/h. In 4 other cases of edema of the arm, Doppler examination correctly predicted patency of the vein, also confirmed radiologically. In 2 cases of thrombosis, there was an underlying stenosis of the left innominate vein close to its union with the superior vena cava. These were dilated by balloon angioplasty; the stenosis recurred in both cases without recurrent thrombosis, and the angioplasty was repeated. Doppler surveillance seems to be a promising aid to the detection of subclavian vein thrombosis from hemodialysis catheters. Local streptokinase infusion is effective in treating thrombosis. Underlying venous stenosis should be looked for because this may be at least partly remediable by balloon angioplasty. PMID- 2528362 TI - A simplified procedure for cDNA and genomic library construction using nonpalindromic oligonucleotide adaptors. AB - The properties and characteristics of oligonucleotide adaptors for use in a simplified procedure for the construction of cDNA and genomic DNA libraries are described. The adaptors are suitable for joining to blunt ended cDNA or sheared genomic DNA, and then to the cohesive ends of restriction sites in vectors. Each adaptor consists of two oligonucleotides with complementary but nonpalindromic sequences that include an internal restriction site, a 5' phosphorylated blunt end, and an overlapping or staggered 5' hydroxylated end corresponding to a restriction endonuclease site in a vector of choice. Ligation of the blunt end to high molecular weight target DNA proceeds efficiently and there is no tandem concatenation of the adaptor. Insertion into the appropriate vector only requires ligation of the cohesive ends. There is no requirement for methylation, restriction enzyme cleavage, G-C tailing, or denaturation after ligation of the adaptor to the target DNA, all characteristics of other procedures. PMID- 2528364 TI - Facial plastic surgery for persons with Down syndrome: research findings and their professional and social implications. AB - The literature on the effectiveness of facial surgery for persons with Down syndrome was reviewed. Research based on impressions of involved persons (e.g., parents and doctors) generally provided evidence for the surgery's effectiveness. However, studies that used before-after research designs, control groups, indirect measures, and ratings of less involved persons were less supportive of the operation's positive effects. Certain of these studies indicated that the operation failed to achieve its goals. Furthermore, in evaluations of the operation, investigators generally did not critically examine the assumptions upon which the operation is based and the professional and social implications of facial surgery for persons with Down syndrome. PMID- 2528363 TI - Characterization of a monoclonal antibody specific to a flavonol 2'-O glucosyltransferase. AB - A monoclonal antibody to a partially purified preparation of 2'-O glucosyltransferase was produced by in vitro immunization of spleen cells from BALB/c mice, followed by fusion with mouse myeloma cells. Hybridoma culture supernatants were screened by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for (i) their ability to produce immunoglobulins and (ii) their immunoreactivity with a partially purified enzyme preparation. The majority of the immunoglobulin producing hybridomas were IgM secretors. Two highly immunoreactive IgM-secreting clones were chosen for further characterization. The supernatant fraction from a culture of one of these clones displayed 50% inhibition of the 2'-O glucosyltransferase activity. The native form of the 2'-O-glucosyltransferase was essential for recognition, suggesting that the epitope recognized by the antibody is a conformational discontiguous one. PMID- 2528365 TI - A longitudinal study on the expression of the opsin gene in the degenerating retina of C3H/He mice. AB - By a combination of immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization using a 35S labeled opsin cDNA probe, it was revealed in rd mutant C3H/He mice that opsin mRNA is not detectable in photoreceptor cells which still exhibit opsin immunoreactivity at later stages of retinal degeneration. This indicates that the photoreceptor cells of rd mutant mice cease to express the opsin gene at earlier stages of retinal degeneration. PMID- 2528366 TI - Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty without anticoagulation. AB - This paper presents the results of a retrospective study of 110 percutaneous transluminal angioplasties done over a period of two years on 110 consecutive patients. Anticoagulation or antiplatelet drugs were not used during or after percutaneous transluminal angioplasty. Life-table analysis was used to calculate success rates at one and three months following the procedure. Success rates were determined using three criteria: clinical improvement, pre- and post-percutaneous transluminal angioplasty Doppler studies, and radiographic appearance. Claudication was present in 87 (79%) patients and severe ischemia in 23 (21%) patients. Sixty-eight (62%) PCTAs were done in the iliac arteries, 35 (32%) in the femoral arteries, and 7 (6%) in the popliteal artery. The majority of patients (61%) had 50%-75% arterial stenosis and only 18% had complete occlusion. Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty in the iliac arteries had the best results with cumulative success rates of 90% and 85% at one and three months, respectively. Success rates in the femoral arteries were 83% and 79% and in the popliteal artery 71% and 57% at one and three months, respectively. None of our patients required amputation. Ten patients (9.1%) suffered the following complications within 30 days of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty: death (2), thrombosis (2), perforation (3), minor hematoma (2), and false aneurysm (1). In conclusion, we have shown that percutaneous transluminal angioplasty can be performed safely and effectively without the use of anticoagulation and its associated risks. PMID- 2528367 TI - Inhibition of normal and psoriatic epidermal phospholipase A2 by picomolar concentrations of recombinant human lipocortin I. AB - Normal human and psoriatic epidermal phospholipase A2 (PLA2) was inhibited by human recombinant lipocortin I when the substrate was present in a several million-fold molar excess. Inhibition was not total, even at relatively high concentrations of lipocortin I. It is therefore suggested that human epidermis contains two species of PLA2: one that is controlled by lipocortin I and one that is not. PMID- 2528368 TI - Multiple minute palmar-plantar digitate hyperkeratoses. AB - Digitate hyperkeratoses are rare lesions of unknown cause. We wish to add a new variant of this entity to the few reports in the literature. Our patient is a 79 year-old woman with palmar pits and digitate hyperkeratoses limited to her palms and soles. PMID- 2528369 TI - Role of Propionibacterium acnes in cancer risk. PMID- 2528370 TI - CD23 antigen expression in CLL. PMID- 2528371 TI - Circadian variations of plasma atrial natriuretic peptide in four types of hypertensive disorder during pregnancy. AB - Circadian variations in plasma atrial natriuretic peptide were studied, to clarify the characteristic pathophysiology of pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH). The mean 24-h values (range) of atrial natriuretic peptide in mild and severe PIH, pregnancy-aggravated hypertension, chronic hypertension and normal pregnancy were 130.1 (97.3-207.0), 225.4 (202.8-281.8), 213.1 (183.2-249.5), 81.3 (61.8-116.1) and 77.1 (56.0-123.5) pg/ml, respectively. The values in PIH and pregnancy-aggravated hypertension were significantly higher, although those in chronic hypertension were no different from normal pregnancy. Plasma atrial natriuretic peptide showed a clear circadian rhythm with acrophase in the middle of the night, in mild and severe PIH. In the other hypertensive disorders, a circadian rhythm could not be confirmed. The results indicate that the elevated values of plasma atrial natriuretic peptide in hypertensive disorders during pregnancy relate to generalized vasoconstriction, and that the diurnal rhythm is a specific characteristic of PIH. PMID- 2528372 TI - Calorimetric investigation of the domain structure of human complement Cl-s: reversible unfolding of the short consensus repeat units. AB - Cl-s is a multidomain serine protease that participates in Ca2+-dependent protein protein interactions with other subcomponents of Cl, the first component of human complement. Proteolytically derived fragments that retain some of the functional properties of the parent protein have been isolated, and their thermal stability has been investigated by differential scanning calorimetry. Three endothermic transitions are observed in whole Cl-s near 37, 49, and 60 degrees C in 0.05 M Tris-HCl, pH 7.2, containing 0.22 M NaCl and 0.1 mM EDTA. The first (37 degrees C) and third (60 degrees C) transitions are also seen in Cl-s-A, a derivative comprised mainly of the intact nonenzymatic A chain. The second (49 degrees C) and third transitions are seen in Cl-s-gamma B, a fragment comprised of the intact B chain, disulfide linked to the C-terminal gamma region of the A chain. Thus, the first transition, which is alone stabilized by Ca2+, corresponds to the melting of the N-terminal alpha beta region of the A chain, the second to the melting of the catalytic B chain domain, and the third to the gamma region. The gamma region is comprised of two homologous short consensus repeat (SCR) motifs that are also found in several other complement and coagulation proteins. A new 24-kDa fragment, Cl-s-gamma, which contains these two SCRs, was isolated from plasmic and chymotryptic digests of Cl-s-A. Cl-s-gamma exhibits a reversible transition near 60 degrees C corresponding to the highest temperature peak in whole Cl-s and Cl-s-A.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528373 TI - Effect of monoclonal antibodies on the properties of smooth muscle myosin. AB - Monoclonal antibodies were generated against turkey gizzard myosin, and their effects on some of the properties of myosin were assayed. Ca2+- and Mg2+-ATPase activities of myosin were enhanced by the anti-subfragment 2 antibodies at low ionic strength (i.e., with 10S myosin). Tryptic fragments of an anti-S2 IgM also activated these activities. Antibodies directed against subfragment 1 and light meromyosin had no effect. The Mg2+-ATPase activity of heavy meromyosin also was activated by an anti-S2 antibody. Actin-activated ATPase activity of phosphorylated myosin was enhanced by the anti-S2 IgM fragments at low MgCl2 concentrations. This increase was reflected by a 5-fold increase in Vmax and a slight decrease in the apparent dissociation constant for actin. The actin activated ATPase of dephosphorylated myosin was not affected by intact anti-S2 antibody or its fragments. The rates of phosphorylation and dephosphorylation of the 20,000-dalton light chains were increased by interaction of myosin with anti S2 antibody. Limited proteolysis of myosin was used as a conformational probe. Interaction of anti-S2 antibody with 10S myosin increased the extent of cleavage at the S1-S2 junction. Proteolysis of 6S myosin was rapid and was not influenced by anti-S2 antibody. Our interpretation of these results is that interaction of the anti-S2 antibodies with myosin alters the conformation in the S2 region and this in turn modifies some of the properties of myosin. This is consistent with the hypothesis that the S2 region of smooth muscle myosin is a determinant of its biological properties. PMID- 2528374 TI - ADP release is rate limiting in steady-state turnover by the dynein adenosinetriphosphatase. AB - The kinetics of the product release steps in the pathway of ATP hydrolysis by dynein were investigated by examining the rate and partition coefficient of phosphate-water 18O exchange under equilibrium and steady-state conditions. Dynein catalyzed both medium and intermediate phosphate-water oxygen exchange with a partition coefficient of 0.30. The dependence of the rate of loss of the fully labeled phosphate species on the concentration of ADP was hyperbolic, with an apparent Kd for the binding of ADP to dynein of 0.085 mM. The apparent second order rate constant for phosphate binding to the dynein-ADP complex was 8000 M-1 s-1. The time course of medium phosphate-water oxygen exchange during net ATP hydrolysis was examined in the presence of an ATP regeneration system. The observed rate of loss of P18O4 was comparable to the rate observed at saturating ADP which implies that ADP release is rate limiting for dynein in the steady state. Product inhibition of the dynein ATPase was also examined. ADP inhibited the enzyme competitively with a Ki of 0.4 mM. Phosphate was a linear noncompetitive mixed-type inhibitor with a Ki of 11 mM. These data were fit to a model in which phosphate release is fast and is followed by rate-limiting release of ADP, allowing us to define each rate constant in the pathway. A discrepancy between the total free energy calculated compared to the known free energy of ATP hydrolysis suggests that there is an additional step in the pathway, perhaps involving a change in conformation of the enzyme-ADP state preceding ADP release. PMID- 2528375 TI - Atypical sieving of open circular DNA during pulsed field agarose gel electrophoresis. AB - Pulsed field agarose gel (PFG) electrophoresis, originally used to improve the resolution by length of linear DNA [Cantor et al. (1988) Annu. Rev. Biophys. Biophys. Chem. 17, 287-304], is found here to cause atypical sieving of 48.5-97.0 kb open circular DNA. Two procedures of PFG electrophoresis are used: rotating gel electrophoresis with rotation of 2 pi radians [2 pi RGE; Serwer, P., & Hayes, S.J. (1989) Appl. Theor. Electrophor. (in press)] and field inversion gel electrophoresis [FIGE; Carle, G.F., Frank, M., & Olson, M. V. (1986) Science 232, 65-68]. During 2 pi RGE at 6 V/cm, the electrophoretic mobility (mu) of 48.5-kb open circular DNA increases in magnitude as agarose percentage (A) increases from 0.4 to 1.5. The sieving revealed by this mu vs A relationship is highly atypical (possibly unique) for any particle. The extent of this atypical sieving increases as electrical potential gradient, DNA length, and pulse time increase. In some cases a maximum is observed in a plot of mu's magnitude vs A. The mu of open circular lambda DNA is smaller in magnitude than the mu of equally long linear lambda DNA. Atypical sieving has also been observed by use of FIGE. As pulse times used during FIGE decrease below those achievable by 2 pi RGE, the progressive loss of circular DNA's atypical sieving is accompanied by both a dramatic increase in mu's magnitude at the lower A values and a decrease in mu's magnitude at the higher A values. At the lower A values, open circular DNA sometimes migrates more rapidly than linear DNA of the same length.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528376 TI - Dynamic interaction between actin and myosin subfragment 1 in the presence of ADP. AB - The equilibrium and dynamics of the interaction between actin, myosin subfragment 1 (S1), and ADP have been investigated by using actin which has been covalently labeled at Cys-374 with a pyrene group. The results are consistent with actin binding to S1.ADP (M.D) in a two-step reaction, A + M.D K1 equilibrium A-M.D K2 equilibrium A.M.D, in which the pyrene fluorescence only monitors the second step. In this model, K1 = 2.3 X 10(4) M-1 (k+1 = 4.6 X 10(4) M-1 s-1) and K2 = 10 (k+2 less than or equal to 4 s-1); i.e., both steps are relatively slow compared to the maximum turnover of the ATPase reaction. ADP dissociates from both M.D and A-M.D at 2 s-1 and from A.M.D at greater than or equal to 500 s-1; therefore, actin only accelerates the release of product from the A.M.D state. This model is consistent with the actomyosin ATPase model proposed by Geeves et al. [(1984) J. Muscle Res. Cell Motil. 5, 351]. The results suggest that A-M.D cannot break down at a rate greater than 4 s-1 by dissociation of ADP, by dissociation of actin, or by isomerizing to A.M.D. It is therefore unlikely to be significantly occupied in a rapidly contracting muscle, but it may have a role in a muscle contracting against a load where the ATPase rate is markedly inhibited. Under these conditions, this complex may have a role in maintaining tension with a low ATP turnover rate. PMID- 2528377 TI - ATP regulation of calcium transport in back-inhibited sarcoplasmic reticulum vesicles. AB - At high concentrations of ATP, ATP hydrolysis and Ca2+ transport by the (Ca2+ + MG2+)-ATPase of intact sarcoplasmic reticulum vesicles exhibit a secondary activation that varies with the extent of back-inhibition by Ca2+ accumulated within the vesicles. When the internal ionized Ca2+ is clamped at low and intermediate levels by the use of Ca-precipitating anions, the apparent Km values for activation by ATP are lower than in fully back-inhibited vesicles (high internal Ca2+). In leaky vesicles unable to accumulate Ca2+, raising Ca2+ in the assay medium from 20-30 microM to 5 mM abolishes the activation of hydrolysis by high concentrations of ATP. The level of [32P]phosphoenzyme formed during ATP hydrolysis from [32P]phosphate added to the medium also varies with the extent of back-inhibition; it is highest when Ca2+ is raised to a level that saturates the internal, low-affinity Ca2+ binding sites. In intact vesicles, increasing the ATP concentration from 10 to 400 microM competitively inhibits the reaction of inorganic phosphate with the enzyme but does not change the rate of hydrolysis. In a previous report (De Meis, L., Gomez-Puyou, M.T. and Gomez-Puyou, A. (1988) Eur. J. Biochem. 171, 343-349), it has been shown that the hydrophobic molecules trifluoperazine and iron bathophenanthroline compete for the catalytic site of the Pi-reactive form of the enzyme. Here it is shown that inhibition of ATP hydrolysis by these compounds is reduced or abolished when Ca2+ binds to the low affinity Ca2+ binding sites of the enzyme. Since inhibition by these agents is indifferent to activation of hydrolysis by high concentrations of ATP, it is suggested that the second Km for ATP and the inhibition by hydrophobic molecules involve two different Ca-free forms of the enzyme. PMID- 2528378 TI - Dehydroisoandrosterone prevention of autoimmune disease in NZB/W F1 mice: lack of an effect on associated immunological abnormalities. AB - The effect of dietary dehydroisoandrosterone (DHA) on several immunological abnormalities associated with the development of systemic lupus erythematosus in New Zealand Black/New Zealand White F1 (NZB/W) female mice was examined. Despite the extraordinary benefits in prolonged survival and decreased synthesis of antibodies to double-stranded DNA obtained by adding DHA (0.4% w/v) to the diet fed to these mice (Lucas et al. (1985) J. Clin. Invest. 75, 2091-2093), remarkably small changes in the chemistry and function of the immune system were detected. DHA prevented the increases in spleen mass and in peritoneal cell number which occur with age in NZB/W female mice, but did not prevent the development of hypergammaglobulinemia. DHA did not affect peritoneal macrophage functions as measured by the phagocytosis of opsonized and non-opsonized sheep erythrocytes, or the zymosan-stimulated release of PGE2, 6-ketoPGF1 alpha, TXB2 and LTC4. In spleen, DHA delayed the loss of T-cell mitogenic responses until 5.5 months of age, but did not alter the spleen lymphocyte population. PMID- 2528379 TI - Expression of UDP-glucose: poriferasterol glucosyltransferase in the process of differentiation of a true slime mold, Physarum polycephalum. AB - An expression of UDP-glucose:poriferasterol glucosyltransferase activity associated with differentiation of a true slime mold, Physarum polycephalum, from haploid myxoamoebae to diploid plasmodia was demonstrated. In the haploid cells, this enzyme activity was not detected, but after conjugation of the myxoamoebae, the enzyme activity was expressed and increased definitely. In the plasmodial stage, high enzyme activity was maintained constantly. The enzyme was partially purified (35-fold purification, and 28% yield), and molecular weight of 72,000, pH optimum of 7.0, and some characteristics were demonstrated. PMID- 2528380 TI - Inhibition of the vacuolar ATPase of Acer pseudoplatanus cells by vanadate. AB - Unlike most tonoplast ATPases, the vacuolar ATPase of Acer pseudoplatanus cells (Km = 0.4 mM) was strongly inhibited by vanadate (I50 = 10 microM). The inhibition was non-competitive. Chemicals usually added in the reaction mixture either increase (NH+4, K+) or decrease (Na+, EDTA) the ATPase inhibition. However, these results do not explain the insensitivity to vanadate of most tonoplast ATPases. We suggest that the tonoplast contains 2 classes of ATPases, one sensitive to vanadate, the other insensitive; each class should be more or less abundant (or active) according to the plant species studied or its physiological state of growth. It appears from this study that sensitivity or insensitivity of an ATPase to vanadate is not really a good criterion to distinguish between plasmalemma and tonoplast. PMID- 2528381 TI - Influence of hematoporphyrin derivative concentration, incubation time, temperature during incubation and laser dose fractionation on photosensitivity of normal hemopoietic progenitors or leukemic cells. AB - Photodynamic therapy represents a new approach for the local control of cancers. It has recently been claimed that photodynamic therapy mediated by hematoporphyrin derivative (HPD) is selectively more efficient for killing leukemic cells than normal progenitors. To improve this effect, we studied the influence of hematoporphyrin dose, temperature during incubation and/or treatment, hematoporphyrin derivative incubation time, and fractionation of the argon laser light (488-514 nm) used for hematoporphyrin stimulation. Plating efficiency calculated after a 7-day period of growth on collagen gel medium showed a dose-dependent phototoxicity of HPD reaching 0.01% for normal hemopoietic progenitors and 0.001% for leukemic cells (dose = 12.5 micrograms/ml). The 10:1 ratio of normal hemopoietic progenitors to leukemic cells was also found to be the same or increased when temperature was 37 degrees C during incubation and 4 degrees C during laser irradiation. Similar results were also found when incubation time was varied from 75-120 min, or when laser irradiation dose was fractionated into 2 or 3 periods. The ratio of normal progenitors to leukemic cells reached 100:1 when 75 J/cm2 were fractionated into 3 periods after an incubation time of 120 min with 10 micrograms/ml HPD. Selectivity in photodynamic treatment seems to occur between normal hemopoietic progenitors and leukemic cells. The mechanism of this selectivity remains unclear, but experiments with the fractionated irradiation dose suggest that as in radiotherapy, better potentially lethal damage repair in normal cells could be a factor for selectivity in photodynamic therapy. Our results obtained with leukemic cells are fully in agreement with data in the literature concerning similar experimental models. PMID- 2528382 TI - Diffusion-limited kinetics of immobilized myosin ATPase. AB - To test the possibility that ATP diffusion limits the kinetics of myosin ATPase (EC. 3.6.1.3) in situ, myosin was covalently bound to the surface of 2 kinds of films: collagen and Immunodyne. On collagen films, it was bound either with 1 ethyl-3 (3 dimethyl-aminopropyl)carbodiimide (EDC) or with dimethyl-3,3' dithiobis(propionimidate) (DTP). The apparent Km for K+-ATP rose from 0.26 mM for free myosin in solution to 2-5 mM for covalently bound myosin, and maximum K+ ATPase activity was very low. With the other film, Immunodyne from Pall, the maximum activity of bound myosin was 170 nmol per min per 1.5 cm2 film. The apparent Km for K+-ATP was 2.1 mM when the incubation mixture was vigorously stirred, and the effect of stirring indicated that the kinetics of K+-ATP hydrolysis are limited by external diffusion. The large amount of myosin bound per unit of Immunodyne film surface permitted the study of Mg2+-ATPase activity, although it was 400-500 times less than the K+-ATPase activity. The apparently non-Michaelian kinetics of Mg2+-ATP hydrolysis are attributable to the external diffusion. The apparent Michaelis constant observed at low Mg2+-ATP concentrations rose from 0.27 microM for myosin in solution to 5 microM for myosin bound to Immunodyne film. PMID- 2528383 TI - Biochemical kinetics of skeletal actosubfragment-1 at high subfragment-1 concentrations. AB - The actomyosin ATPase activity of skeletal myosin subfragment-1 (S-1) is typically studied by keeping the S-1 concentration low and varying the actin concentration. General agreement exists over the kinetic data observed. Another way of studying the ATPase activity is to keep the actin concentration low and vary the S-1 concentration. The picture that has emerged is that the maximal ATPase rate (per micromolar actin), Vamax, is several fold greater than the Vsmax measured at fixed S-1. Likewise, the apparent activation constant Kam is several fold weaker than KATPase. In addition it is found that Kam, henceforth Kam(At), varies with the total actin concentration At, but controversy continues over the actin dependence of Vamax. Of particular interest is the fact that the Lymn Taylor and refractory state models could not account for the data. Here we have repeated studies on the ATPase activity at fixed actin concentration in an attempt to determine if the current models for the actin activated myosin ATPase activity can account for both the constant actin and constant S-1 data simultaneously, or if these data imply that new kinetic models need be postulated. We conclude that the current kinetic models can account for the data. PMID- 2528384 TI - Electrophoresis and orientation of F-actin in agarose gels. AB - F-Actin was electrophoresed on agarose gels. In the presence of 2 mM MgCl2 and above pH 8.5 F-actin entered 1% agarose; when the electric field was 2.1 V/cm and the pH was 8.8, F-actin migrated through a gel as a single band at a rate of 2.5 mm/h. Labeling of actin with fluorophores did not affect its rate of migration, but an increase in ionic strength slowed it down. After the electrophoresis actin was able to bind phalloidin and heavy meromyosin (HMM) and it activated Mg2+ dependent ATPase activity of HMM. The mobility of F-actin increased with the rise in pH. Acto-S-1 complex was also able to migrate in agarose at basic pH, but at a lower rate than F-actin alone. The orientation of fluorescein labeled F-actin and of fluorescein labeled S-1 which formed rigor bonds with F-actin was measured during the electrophoresis by the fluorescence detected linear dichroism method. The former showed little orientation, probably because the dye was mobile on the surface of actin, but we were able to measure the orientation of the absorption dipole of the dye bound to S-1 which was attached to F-actin, and found that it assumed an orientation largely parallel to the direction of the electric field. These results show that actin can migrate in agarose gels in the F form and that it is oriented during the electrophoresis. PMID- 2528386 TI - Adjuvant immunotherapy: two randomized controlled studies of patients with cervical cancer. AB - In order to prolong the survival of patients with cervical cancer, adjuvant immunotherapy was undertaken in Japan. The result of two randomized controlled studies using biological response modifiers such as OK-432 or sizofiran are described. The three-year recurrence-free rates of 221 patients in the OK-432 group and 161 patients in the control group were 71.9% and 58.6%, respectively. The intergroup difference was statistically significant. Of all the patients with Stage II or III cancer, time to recurrence and survival rate in 99 patients in the sizofiran group were significantly longer than in 96 patients in the control, evaluated at 5 years. Based on the results of the 2 randomized controlled studies, we conclude that adjuvant immunotherapy is very useful for prolonging the survival of patients with cervical cancer. PMID- 2528385 TI - Determination of the fractal dimension of membrane protein aggregates using fluorescence energy transfer. AB - It is demonstrated that fluorescence resonance energy transfer may be used to determine the fractal dimension of aggregates of membrane-bound proteins. Theoretical and experimental results are presented for two different experimental designs: energy transfer between proteins and energy transfer from lipids to proteins. For energy transfer between proteins the lattice spacing must be known independently for a fractal dimension to be uniquely determined, and this represents a disadvantage to this experimental design. Results are presented for the calcium ATPase and a fractal dimension of 1.9 is estimated for ATPase aggregates by assuming a lattice spacing of 50 A. Energy transfer from lipids to protein provides a means of estimating the length of the "coast-line" of the aggregate. In this case the fractal dimension is uniquely determined from a log log plot. An analysis of data for bacteriohodopsin reconstituted in phospholipid vesicles gives a fractal dimension of 1.6. The structural basis of the value for the fractal dimension is discussed for these two systems. These techniques provide a means of assessing the nature of protein-protein interactions in membranous systems. PMID- 2528387 TI - Use of trimetrexate for the prevention of graft-versus-host disease. AB - The effects of trimetrexate following marrow transplantation were studied in a dog model. Four animals were given 9.2 Gy total body irradiation (TBI), autologous marrow, and either trimetrexate alone (0.4 mg/kg on days 1, 3, 6, and 11) or combined with cyclosporine (CSP) (15 mg/kg per day i.m. on days 1-7, then orally until day 25, then taper). All four animals engrafted normally, demonstrating that trimetrexate at this dose is tolerable. Ten additional animals were given a similar dose of TBI followed by marrow and buffy coat cells from littermate donors differing for one DLA haplotype. Trimetrexate and CSP were given as noted above. Four of the 10 animals died, one with septicemia prior to engraftment (day 14), one with intussusception (day 28), one with graft failure (day 32) and one with a tracheal abscess without graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) (day 67). Six dogs survived in excess of 100 days; one of the six developed chronic GVHD. These results are superior to those previously achieved with either methotrexate or CSP as single agents and are roughly equivalent to results achieved with a combination of methotrexate and CSP in similarly mismatched donor recipient pairs. PMID- 2528388 TI - Mood disorder following cerebrovascular accident. AB - Depression appears to be common after stroke, and therefore may have a bearing upon rehabilitation. To examine whether the depression is due to a specific brain lesion, or is reactive to the consequent disability, this study looked at the frequency and associations of depressed mood in a stroke rehabilitation unit in patient population, unselected for site of lesion. Depression affected 50% of the patients; history of previous psychiatric disorder and cerebrovascular accident appeared to be important risk factors. There were hemispheric differences in the relationships between measures, with both the site-of-lesion and reactive viewpoints being upheld. PMID- 2528389 TI - A 6-hydroxydopamine-induced selective parkinsonian rat model. AB - Previous parkinsonian rat models have generally been characterized by unilateral destruction of both the nigrostriatal pathway and the mesolimbic pathway using the neurotoxin 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA). We created a hemiparkinsonian model in which there is 6-OHDA-induced destruction of the dopaminergic nigrostriatal pathway but sparing of the dopaminergic mesolimbic pathway. This resulted in reproducible, quantifiable rotational behavior in response to either amphetamine or apomorphine and a near total depletion of dopamine in the striatum ipsilateral to the lesion with a dorsolateral distribution of supersensitive dopaminergic D2 receptors. This model parallels the MPTP (1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6 tetrahydropyridine)-induced hemiparkinsonian model in primates and more closely approximates the extent of neurodegeneration seen in human idiopathic Parkinson's disease than previous parkinsonian rat models. It may therefore prove a convenient model for studying the recently reported phenomenon of sprouting from host dopaminergic neurons following tissue implantation. PMID- 2528390 TI - Indomethacin-induced antipyresis in the rat: role of vasopressin receptors. AB - Infusion of 15 micrograms/microliters (approximately 120 micrograms/kg/h) of indomethacin within the ventral septal area of the rat brain significantly reduced a centrally induced prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) hyperthermia when compared with infusions of artificial cerebrospinal fluid. A bolus injection of a V1 receptor antagonist, d(CH2)5Try(Me)AVP, (200, 2000, or 20,000 pmol) within the ventral septal area had no effect of body temperature alone but did suppress the PGE1-induced fever. Similar bolus injections of the V1 receptor antagonist within the ventral septal area failed to alter the antipyretic action of indomethacin on the hyperthermia resulting from centrally administered PGE1. Central injections of a V2 receptor antagonist failed to alter either the PGE1-induced fever or the indomethacin-evoked antipyresis. The results suggest that the V1 receptor antagonist may exert non-specific neurodepressant effects which may interfere with the expression or production of PGE1 hyperthermia and may further mask any contribution of arginine vasopressin to the antipyretic effects of indomethacin. PMID- 2528391 TI - Microstructural analysis of the anorectic effect of N-0437, a highly selective dopamine D2 agonist. AB - Drug actions, mediated by dopamine D2 receptors, have been shown to reduce food consumption in rodents. The present study used a microstructural approach to feeding responses to determine the behavioural changes which underlie the anorectic effect of a selective D2 agonist, N-0437. Non-deprived male rats were trained to consume a palatable, sweetened mash in a 30 min test under familiar test conditions. N-0437 (1.0 and 3.0 mg/kg) significantly reduced food intake, but had no effect on the duration of feeding, the duration and frequency of feeding bouts, or on the time course of feeding. Its anorectic effect depended upon a selective reduction in the rate of eating. Microstructural analysis of other behavioural changes which followed treatments with N-0437 indicated that, at 0.3 mg/kg, the drug may have selective dopamine autoreceptor activity, but at 1.0 and 3.0 mg/kg it acts postsynaptically at D2 receptors. The results show that the anorectic effects of N-0437 can be clearly distinguished from the effects of psychomotor stimulants like D-amphetamine or cocaine, but they overlap in part with the effect of the mixed D1/D2 agonist, apomorphine. The results are discussed in relation to a proposed D2 receptor-mediation of one component of the behavioural changes that underlie feeding satiation. PMID- 2528392 TI - Abuse and neglect in psychiatrically hospitalized multihandicapped children. AB - Medical charts of 150 consecutive admissions of multihandicapped children to a psychiatric hospital were examined to determine the extent and characteristics of abuse and neglect. Results indicated that 39% of the sample experienced or had a history that warranted suspicion of past and/or current maltreatment. Physical abuse was the most frequent type of maltreatment, followed by neglect and sexual abuse. Maltreated multihandicapped patients admitted to the psychiatric unit were less likely to receive diagnoses of organic brain syndrome or profound mental retardation than nonmaltreated multihandicapped counterparts on the same unit. Moreover, data indicated that less severely impaired patients were more likely to be maltreated than were the more severely impaired. Particularly striking was the severity of maltreatment in this multihandicapped sample and the relatively high percentage (40%) of sexually abused patients who were assaulted by multiple perpetrators. PMID- 2528393 TI - [Structural heterogeneity of human thyroglobulin in relation to its messenger RNA maturation]. AB - One human thyroglobulin cDNA clone present 192 nucleotides deletion which correspond to 64 amino-acid deletion on the protein molecule. We show that this fact figure the exon loss on the mRNA molecule using as template during cDNA synthesis by comparison between mRNA and genomic DNA nucleotide sequences. Different possibility can explain this fact. We retain mainly mistake in mRNA maturation fidelity. This type of event is not an exception and can be an explanation for some pathologies. PMID- 2528394 TI - [Changes in cerebellar iron metabolism and their prevention by allopurinol in oxidative stress related to acute ethanol administration in rats]. AB - An acute ethanol load results in an increased total nonheme iron and cytosolic low molecular weight iron content in rat cerebellum. At the same time the cerebellar susceptibility to lipid peroxidation is enhanced whereas the alpha tocopherol and ascorbate content is decreased. These changes argue for a cerebellar ethanol-induced oxidative stress, which is prevented by prior allopurinol administration. PMID- 2528396 TI - [Participation of lactic anaerobic metabolism during short and intense repeated exercises]. AB - The evolution of blood lactate concentrations has been studied during a force/velocity test on a cycloergometer in order to specify if the repetition of short (6 s) and intense exercises induced an important participation of lactic anaerobic metabolism. Seven moderately trained male subjects, aged from 23 to 29 years (mean = 24.92 +/- 0.79) participated in this study. Two blood samples (venous catheter) were performed, at rest, then for each work load (1 kg to 10 kg): at the end of the exercise (P1) and during the recovery at 5 min (P2). From the lowest work load, blood lactate concentration increased significantly, at the end of the exercise (F = 16.21; P less than 0.001) and during the recovery (F = 22.62; P less than 0.001). The mean values were respectively at the peak of power: 9.84 +/- 0.85 et 10.19 +/- 0.75 mmol.l-1. Once the peak of power was obtained, the blood lactate concentration remained steady. In conclusion, the repetition of short and intense exercises induced an important participation of lactic anaerobic metabolism. The lactate could be the limiting factor of the maximal power. PMID- 2528395 TI - [Isolation of Ca2+ sensitive proteins linked to the membrane fraction of the brain cortex and the spinal cord in pigs]. AB - Four Ca2+-sensitive proteins of respective subunit molecular weights 67 kDa, 37 kDa, 36 kDa and 32 kDa were purified from pig brain and spinal cord. Associated to the particulate fraction at millimolar concentrations of free Ca2+, they were solubilized using an EGTA-containing buffer and purified by a selective Ca2+ dependent precipitation. The 36 kDa protein is present in the tissues in a tetrameric form of (2 X 36 kDa + 2 X 13 kDa) and in a monomeric form. These proteins with the 37 kDa protein share the functional properties of the two well known Ca2+-binding proteins, named calpactin I and calpactin II; they were able to interact with F-actin, brain spectrin (fodrin) and phosphatidylserine liposomes in a Ca2+-dependent manner. The 67 kDa protein depolymerizes the actin filament in presence of Ca2+, it also binds to tubulin and to the neurofilament subunit NF-70, but not to brain spectrin. The 32 kDa protein does not share any association with F-actin and brain spectrin. PMID- 2528397 TI - [LHRH in the human hypothalamus. Immunohistochemical mapping in normal newborn infants or in sudden death infants]. AB - The topographical distribution of neurons containing LHRH has been investigated in newborn hypothalamus using the peroxidase anti-peroxidase technique. In control subjects, LHRH immunoreactive (LHRH-IR) perikarya have been mainly observed essentially in the infundibular nucleus. The preoptic region displayed a moderate density of LHRH-IR cell bodies. High LHRH innervation was observed in the anterior hypothalamus in the lamina terminalis and in the mediobasal hypothalamus in the median eminence, and in the peri- and paraventricular regions. In sudden death infant syndrome, a comparable mapping was observed, except a low density in the mediobasal peri- and paraventricular areas. PMID- 2528398 TI - [Characterization of an analog enzyme to cathepsin L produced by tumor cells]. AB - The activity of cathepsin L is examined in the culture supernatants of 38 human, murine and hamster tumor cell lines. It is found that all cell lines secrete the enzyme possessing cathepsin L activity. The supernatant of HPC-YP cell cultures is purified and characterized as the enzyme preparation, because this supernatant shows the highest cathepsin L activity. The results indicate that the enzyme produced in HPC-YP cells is different from cathepsin L of normal liver in the several points. The molecular weight of the enzyme is 68 kd, whereas it is 34 kd for the liver cathepsin L. The enzyme is more stable to heat treatment and at the various pH than the liver cathepsin L. Furthermore, the inhibitors, which inhibit the liver cathepsin L activity, do not inhibit the activity of this enzyme. It is concluded that the enzyme showing cathepsin L activity in the culture supernatants of human tumor cells is different from human normal liver cathepsin L. PMID- 2528399 TI - [Anticarcinogenesis activity of natural carotenes]. AB - Natural carotene sample obtained from palm oil was proved to suppress the promoting stage of two-stage carcinogenesis of mouse skin, and also inhibit the proliferation of human malignant tumor cells, such as neuroblastoma GOTO cells, stomach cancer HGC-27 cells, and pancreatic cancer PANC-I cells. Among the major constituents of palm carotene, alpha-carotene showed stronger anti-proliferative effect than beta-carotene. The present results indicate that further investigation for not only beta-carotene but also other kinds of natural carotenes, such as alpha-carotene, should be carried out. PMID- 2528400 TI - [Preliminary study on HBsAg-specific T cell clones]. AB - Clones of HBsAg-reactive CD8+ and CD4+ T cells were obtained from PBM of a hepatitis B immunized individual whose PBM proliferated when cultured with HBsAg. Lymphocytes were activated by culturing for 2 weeks with HBsAg and high concentrations of IL-2, then cloned in the presence of irradiated HBsAg-activated PBM and autologous EBV-transformed B cells, together with antigen and IL-2. All clones examined exhibited proliferation in an antigen-specific manner. Of 7 clones examined by flow cytometry, 4 were CD4+, CD8-; and 3 were CD4-, CD8+. Several clones produced IL-2 activity after stimulation with HBsAg. Since development of CD8+ T-cell clones specific for soluble antigens has been difficult, the high frequency with which CD8+ cells were cloned in these experiments suggests that the cloning strategy employed may have general use for development of CD8+ clones, Availability of HBV-specific T cell clones of different phenotype may help elucidate the mechanisms of immunotolerance in HB infection. PMID- 2528401 TI - Effect of atrial natriuretic factor on blood-brain barrier permeability. AB - Recent studies have demonstrated receptors for atrial natriuretic factor on endothelium of intracerebral vessels. The physiological role of these receptors is not known. The present study was undertaken to determine whether atrial natriuretic factor has an effect on blood-brain barrier permeability to protein and ions using horseradish peroxidase and lanthanum as markers of permeability alterations. This study does not demonstrate a significant effect of atrial natriuretic factor on blood-brain barrier permeability mechanisms in steady states. PMID- 2528402 TI - Angiotensin restores atrial natriuretic factor-induced decrease of baroreceptor sensitivity in normotensive rats, but not in spontaneously hypertensive rats. AB - The effect of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) on baroreflex sensitivity was determined in unanesthetized normotensive (Wistar-Kyoto, WKY) or spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) during acute hypertensive stimuli (phenylephrine) or hypotensive stimuli (sodium nitroprusside). The i.v. dose of rat ANF [( Ser99,Tyr126]ANF) was 50 ng/min per rat, sufficient to decrease mean arterial blood pressure (ABP) by about 6 mmHg (1 mmHg = 133.3 Pa) in WKY. SHR showed no change in ABP with this ANF dose. During a control infusion of physiological saline, the mean heart rate (HR) response to increases in ABP was -1.30 +/- 0.27 beats/min (bpm)/mmHg in WKY and -0.37 +/- 0.22 in SHR (p less than 0.05). These values were not affected significantly by ANF. However, ANF blunted chronotropic responses to ABP decreases. The control values of the delta HR/delta ABP slope in WKY and SHR were -2.34 +/- 0.57 and -2.01 +/- 0.37 bpm/mmHg, respectively. In the presence of ANF, the slope changed to -0.36 +/- 0.43 (i.e., bradycardia in response to hypotension) in WKY and to +0.20 +/- 0.21 in SHR (p less than 0.005 for the difference from control for both). This ANF-induced loss of baroreflex sensitivity was reversed in WKY by the addition of angiotensin I (sufficient to increase ABP by 5 mmHg in control rats). Angiotensin did not restore baroreflex sensitivity in ANF-infused SHR, and ANF had no effect on the ABP increase caused by angiotensin in either group. The data suggest that ANF does not act on baroreceptor structures directly, but inhibits mechanisms involved in efferent sympathetic activation. Parasympathetic responses do not appear to be compromised. PMID- 2528403 TI - Cisplatin-associated hemolytic-uremic syndrome. Successful treatment with a staphylococcal protein A column. AB - Cisplatin-associated hemolytic-uremic syndrome (HUS), an under-reported form of HUS induced by chemotherapy, typically pursues a fulminant and lethal course. We report the cases of two patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck who developed massive hemolysis, profound thrombocytopenia, and dialysis dependent renal failure after therapy with cisplatin. Plasma exchange was ineffective in both patients, but plasma perfusion with a staphylococcal protein A column produced a dramatic and permanent response in the second patient. These cases show the importance of considering HUS as a cause of renal failure in such patients who receive cisplatin-based chemotherapy, and support the role of staphylococcal protein A plasma perfusion as treatment for this condition. PMID- 2528404 TI - The receptor for IgG on human normal and chronic myeloid leukemic granulocytes: functional and biochemical characterization. AB - Receptor mediated endocytosis of fluorescein isothiocyanate-conjugated heat aggregated IgG (Fl-HAIgG) via the receptor for IgG (Fc gamma R) was studied using granulocytes from normal donors and patients suffering from chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Within 15 min of incubation at 37 degrees C, 75% of the normal granulocytes internalized the ligand, while only 13% of the CML granulocytes could internalize the ligand in the same time. This functional defect was seen in all the CML patients analyzed. To elucidate the reason for this defective endocytosis, the Fc gamma R was isolated from normal and leukemic granulocytes and biochemically characterized, by gel electrophoresis, high pressure liquid chromatography, and one- and two-dimensional peptide mapping. Our results show that the molecule from the two cell types is very similar. The defective endocytosis must therefore be due to events which occur after ligand-receptor binding. PMID- 2528405 TI - Effects of atrial natriuretic peptide on systemic haemodynamics and cardiac function in normal man. AB - Atrial natriuretic peptides (ANP) reduce blood pressure. Animal experiments suggest that this depressor action results from a reduction in cardiac output rather than peripheral vascular resistance but it is unresolved whether this is wholly due to their effect of reducing left ventricular filling or whether they have a negatively inotropic effect. We have therefore investigated the effects of ANP in normal man using Doppler measurements of ascending aortic blood flow. Six normal volunteers underwent infusions of placebo and incremental doses of ANP in the range 0.25 to 12 micrograms.min-1. Each infusion was given for 15 min and measurements made both in the supine and erect positions (passive tilt). In both positions ANP had dose dependent effects of increasing heart rate (HR) and maximal acceleration whilst lowering an index of systemic vascular resistance (ISVR). In the erect position ANP also lowered systolic blood pressure. In the 30 min after completion of the infusions there were significant decreases in peak velocity and cardiac output with increases in ISVR in both positions, but HR fell and diastolic pressure increased only when supine. During the course of the experiment mean haematocrit (SEM) increased from 43.9 (1.2) to 46.7 (1.0), indicating a mean reduction in plasma volume of 10.5%. This occurred despite a negative fluid balance of only 31(7) ml over the 2 h. These data suggest that ANP is not negatively inotropic and that, at pharmacological doses, it is an arteriolar dilator of rapid offset and reduces cardiac filling pressures by a mechanism of slower offset. PMID- 2528406 TI - Cross-reactivity between human and canine helper and suppressor T cell antigens using monoclonal antibodies RPA-T4 and HuLy-m8. AB - The murine monoclonal antibodies RPA-T4 and HuLy-m8, specific for a framework determinant of human helper/inducer and suppressor/cytotoxic T cell antigens, cross-reacted with canine cell membrane molecules recognizing a biomolecular complex (50,000 to 55,000 daltons) similar to that described in humans. We investigated the distribution of these helper and suppressor T cell-like antigens on canine peripheral blood lymphocytes. With complement-mediated lymphocytotoxicity, 34% and 35% of the canine lymphocytes expressed the helper T cell-like antigens and the suppressor-like T cell antigens, respectively. When the lymphocytes were treated with RPA-T4 and HuLy-m8, the respective helper and suppressor function was significantly inhibited. PMID- 2528407 TI - Localization of wheat-germ agglutinin-binding sites in the Golgi complex of cultured rat atrial myocytes. AB - In the Golgi region of cultured rat atrial myocytes, condensed secretory protein was seen in Golgi-associated tubules or cisternae which lay beyond, and often separated from, the remainder of the Golgi stacks. These structures appeared to be involved in packaging of condensed secretory protein into atrial granules. Binding sites of HRP-conjugated wheat-germ agglutinin (WGA) in saponin-treated cultured atrial myocytes were examined by electron microscopy with special reference to atrial granules and the tubular structures associated with the Golgi stacks. HRP reaction products were observed in both trans-cisternae of the Golgi stacks and the associated tubular structures. While the majority of atrial granules were devoid of reaction products, some granules, which were connected to the WGA-positive tubular structures in the vicinity of the Golgi trans-cisternae, showed HRP reaction products at their connected necks. Similar results were obtained when sections of the cells embedded in Lowicryl K4M were labeled with WGA coupled to colloidal gold (G-WGA); the Golgi complex was G-WGA positive, whereas no specific binding of G-WGA to atrial granules was observed. These results suggest that glycoproteins and/or glycolipids with oligosaccharides recognized by WGA in the Golgi transcisternae, may be separated from atrial natriuretic peptides which are packaged into atrial granules. PMID- 2528409 TI - Handicapping and genetic disorders in Zimbabwean institutions: a diagnostic survey. AB - A diagnostic survey was undertaken in twelve Zimbabwean institutions for deaf, crippled and mentally handicapped individuals. A total of 1396 persons were evaluated of whom 885 were deaf, 356 physically disabled and 155 were mentally retarded. Acquired causes formed the largest aetiological group throughout the survey, but a high frequency of inherited crippling disorders was encountered (125 individuals). Down Syndrome accounted for almost one third of children with mental handicap. Undifferentiated autosomal recessive deafness was found in 87 persons, most of whom were from the Shona people. PMID- 2528408 TI - The [Ca2+ + Mg2+]-dependent adenosine triphosphatase of SV40 transformed WI38 lung fibroblasts. AB - The Ca2+-stimulated, Mg2+-dependent ATPase of SV40 transformed WI38 lung fibroblast homogenates exhibits a high affinity for Ca2+ (K0.5 = 0.20 microM) and moderately high affinity for ATP (Km = 28.6 microM) and Mg2+ (K0.5 = 138.5 microM). This activity was NaN3, KCN and oligomycin insensitive but very sensitive to vanadate (I50 = 0.5 microM) suggesting its being neither mitochondrial or microsomal but plasma membrane in origin. Under optimal conditions of protein, hydrogen ion and substrate concentration, 16-19 nmoles phosphate was released per min per mg protein. Hill plot analysis indicated no cooperativity to occur between Ca2+ binding sites. Nucleotides other than ATP and dATP were ineffective as substrates. The trivalent cation, lanthanum (La3+) completely inhibited hydrolysis of ATP at approximately 70 microM (I50 = 25 microM). Calmodulin antagonists trifluoperazine and calmidazolium inhibited ATP hydrolysis in a dose dependent fashion. PMID- 2528410 TI - The product of the PRP4 gene of S. cerevisiae shows homology to beta subunits of G proteins. PMID- 2528412 TI - Two different laminin domains mediate the differentiation of human endothelial cells into capillary-like structures in vitro. AB - Endothelial cells, both microvascular as well as large vessel, undergo differentiation slowly in culture under most conditions. When endothelial cells are cultured on Matrigel, a solid gel of basement membrane proteins, they rapidly align and form hollow tube-like structures. We show here that tube formation is a multi-step process induced by laminin. An RGD-containing sequence in the A chain of laminin through an integrin receptor on the endothelial cell induces their attachment to the protein while a YIGSR site in the B1 chain induces cell-cell interactions and the resulting tube formation. We also show that the laminin derived synthetic peptide YIGSR contains sufficient information to induce single endothelial cells to form ring-like structures surrounding a hollow lumen, the basic putative unit in the formation of capillaries. PMID- 2528411 TI - Expression of a hybrid immunoglobulin-T cell receptor protein in transgenic mice. AB - We have constructed a hybrid immunoglobulin (VDJH)-T cell receptor (C alpha) gene using the VDJH exon from a digoxin-specific antibody. This gene was used to make a line of transgenic mice. The hybrid VDJH-C alpha protein is expressed on a subset of T cells in these mice, and we have shown that it forms part of a functional TCR complex by the criteria of coprecipitation and comodulation of CD3 and TCR beta chain components and T cell activation with anti-idiotypic antibodies or digoxin. Furthermore, in cells expressing the hybrid protein, there is allelic exclusion of endogenous TCR alpha genes. We discuss the implications for the comparative structure of T cell receptors and immunoglobulins. PMID- 2528414 TI - Thromboxane A2 receptor antagonists. III. Synthesis and pharmacological activity of 6,6-dimethylbicyclo[3.1.1]heptane derivatives with a substituted sulfonylamino group at C-2. AB - Four stereoisomers of the title compounds based on side chain ring junctions, (+) 7a, (+)-7b, (-)-7c and (-)-24, were synthesized from (-)-myrtenol and (+) nopinone. The (1R,2R,3S,5S)-isomer (+)-7b had the most potent inhibitory activity against platelet aggregation and did not show partial agonist activity (shape change of platelets). We also synthesized the antipode, (-)-7b, and derivatives of (+)-7b with various kinds of substituents at the sulfonylamino group, 34a-n and p. The one-carbon homologated compound, (+)-58, was also prepared. The inhibitory activities of these compounds against platelet aggregation were measured. PMID- 2528413 TI - Early response and induced tolerance to cycloheximide in Neurospora crassa. AB - Incubation of Neurospora crassa mycelia with low doses of cycloheximide induces the expression of several genes. After 6 h in the presence of cycloheximide, mycelia become tolerant to further additions of the drug and the rate of protein synthesis exhibits a lower sensitivity to it. The polypeptide pattern is indicative of a stress situation. PMID- 2528415 TI - [Induction of differentiation of human promyelocytic leukemia (HL-60) cells by new retinoid R-81001]. AB - By using soft agar colony-forming assay, a monoclonal subline of human promyelocytic leukemia HL-60 cells was isolated and inducing activity of differentiation of a new retinoid R-81001 on the cells was studied. Phenotypic changes, such as biologic behavior, morphological and biochemical characteristics, show that R-81001 can induce HL-60 cells to differentiate along the myeloid pathway. PMID- 2528416 TI - [Clinical analysis of 60 cases of scleredema]. AB - Clinical analysis of 60 cases of scleredema is reported with emphasis on clinical manifestations, microcirculatory changes, histopathological and ultrastructural observations. It is noted that the prognosis of scleredema may not always be good, and severe cases may lose their working capacity or even die. Attention should be paid to proper treatment of scleredema and long term follow-up is indicated to observe its course, outcome and pattern of evolution. PMID- 2528417 TI - [Studies on oncogene of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. I. Transforming activity of CNE 2 DNA in NIH3T3 cells]. AB - We have obtained foci of transformed NIH3T3 cells through transfection of human DNA from CNE-2 (an undifferentiated epithelial cell line of nasopharyngeal carcinoma). The DNA from primary foci can be used in subsequent cycles of transfection, resulting in secondary foci capable of forming clones on soft agar and producing tumors 30 days after innoculation into nude mice. The tumors were later proved histologically to be fibrosarcomas. PMID- 2528418 TI - [Studies on oncogene of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. II. Identification of the oncogene in human nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell line]. AB - DNA transfection studies using NIH3T3 cells as recipient had previously led to the identification of a transforming gene present in the CNE-2 cell line. Some oncogenes were used as probes to screen DNA of secondary foci, and the results showed that the transforming gene present in the CNE-2 cell line has detectable homology to the C-Ha-ras oncogene. PMID- 2528419 TI - [Synthesis of N-2-methylpropyl-N-1'-methylacetonylnitrosamine and its physical properties]. AB - N-2-methylpropyl-N-1'-methylacetonylnitrosamine (NMAMPA) is a new N-nitroso compound found in natural moldy millet and wheat flour from Linxian county, Henan Province. The volatile nitrosamine is mutagenic in several short-term biological assays, and so we proceeded to synthesize larger amounts for the study of carcinogenesis. The main steps were as follows: 1) preparation of 3-bromobutanone (I) by bromination of butanone, 2) alkylation of 3-bromobutanone (I) with isobutylamine to give the secondary amine (II), and 3) nitrosaton of secondary amine (II) with sodium nitrite to yield NMAMPA (III). NMAMPA is a pale yellow liquid which is slightly soluble in water and freely soluble in ether, chloroform and dichloromethane. At room temperature, NMAMPA slowly turns brown, and decomposition takes place after prolonged exposure to UV light. A dilute solution of NMAMPA may be degraded in a freezer at 4 degrees to 6 degrees C. PMID- 2528420 TI - [Clinical significance of EEG foci in partial epilepsy of children]. AB - This paper reports 7 cases of epileptic children with characteristic EEG foci. The features are as follows: 1) the spikes or sharp waves almost always appear in sleep recordings with a repetitive and stereotypical pattern; 2) EEG foci are often in the central-temporal area; and 3) foci disappear after awakening. Clinical seizures of a partial nature often occurred during sleep, sometimes with secondary generation. The outcome is relatively benign. Multiple and especially large doses of antiepileptic drugs should be avoided. PMID- 2528421 TI - [Information system of leprosy and its developing tool]. AB - This paper reported briefly composition of leprosy information system and its developing tool (CAMSLEP) with recommendation of distinguishing features. It was developed with Pascal. The software finished is for APPLEII and its compatible microcomputer. An IPF form translates the situations of patient with leprosy into the codes which can be read by microcomputer. The data of patients are saved on diskettes with text of characters in tightened pattern. The software includes five programs which are of "Fill in IPF", "Fill in report", "Designer", etc. "Menu" is available for operating, and "conversation" for input and output. All programs are managed by the general "Menu". In response to this prompt letter in "Menu" you can find your way around in different levels of the operating system for different functions. The way to operate is simple and convenient. It's possible to set up a data-base of patients which can be operated for inserting, deleting, updating and inputting follow-up, outputting 2-dimensional or 3 dimensional report of statistical analysis of multiple factors and to set up a specific information system according to user's requirements with the software. PMID- 2528422 TI - [Ammonium molybdate as stabilizing agent in tetramethyl benzidine reaction of CB HRP neurohistochemistry and its application to electron microscopy and immunocytochemistry]. AB - Ammonium molybdate (AHM) was used as a stabilizing agent in the tetramethyl benzidine (TMB) reaction of choleragen subunit B conjugated horseradish peroxidase (CB-HRP) neurohistochemistry. In comparison with Mesulam's TMB method using sodium nitroprusside (SNP) as stabilizing agent, this new stabilizer offers similar sensitivity in regard to visualization of CB-HRP labelled neurons and their extranuclear Golgi-phobic dendrites. The nearly physiological pH (6-8) of the reaction medium demonstrates better preservation of tissue and cell structures of reacted sections and avoids non-specific needle-like crystal formation. Under the electron microscope, the histochemical reaction products can be clearly distinguished, without the usual shrinkage or distention of cellular and subcellular structures. This method was also applied with success to immunocytochemistry through small modifications. PMID- 2528423 TI - [Comparison studies on pharmacological properties of injectio gastrodia elata, gastrodin-free fraction and gastrodin]. AB - Injectio Gastrodia elata showed sedative effect on central nervous system with decrease of spontaneous motor activity and a prolonged pentobarbital sleeping time in mice. After administration of injectio Gastrodia, mice were found to be more resistant to hypoxia and nutrient blood flow in cardiac muscle of mice was markedly increased. Besides, It also showed effect of injectio on the croton-oil induced mouse ear inflammation. The gastrodin-free fraction showed similar but weaker effects as the injectio while no effect was observed of gastrodin in mice. The results show that gastrodin is one of the main constituents of Gastrodia elata, but not the active one. PMID- 2528424 TI - [Cause of amenorrhea after treatment with tripterygium wilfordii F]. AB - Fourteen female patients with rheumatoid arthritis who developed amenorrhea after treatment with T2 were investigated endocrinologically. FSH and LH levels began to rise after 2-3 mon and reached menopausal levels at 4-5 mon of treatment. E2 levels began to drop after 3-4 mon and reached very low levels at 5 mon of treatment. This indicates that the site of action of T2 is the ovary. The factors effecting amenorrhea may be related to dosage and the status of reproductive function. Cytotoxicity might be the mechanism of action of T2. In 9 cases (64.3%), menses returned after discontinuing treatment for 7 mon. Amenorrhea due to T2 is reversible when the reproductive functions are in the active stage. PMID- 2528425 TI - [Effect of "Yiqi yangyin huoxue" prescription on hemorrheology of diabetics with symptoms of "qi, yin" deficiency and stasis of blood]. AB - Hemorrheologic tests were studied in 68 cases of diabetes with symptoms of deficiency of both Qi and Yin and blood stasis. The results showed that whole blood viscosity, plasma viscosity, hematocrit and RBC filterability in diabetics were significantly higher than in normal controls, except for hematocrit in male patients. After treatment with "Yiqi Yangyin Huoxue" prescription by Prof. Zhu Shenyu, whole blood viscosity (at shear rates of 3.83 s-1, 38.3 s-1, 192 s-1), plasma viscosity, hematocrit and RBC filterability were apparently improved, with a decrease of fasting blood sugar, as compared with patients of the placebo group. PMID- 2528426 TI - [Surgical treatment of spinal kyphosis following congenital hemivertebra]. AB - The results of surgical treatment of 16 cases of spinal kyphosis following congenital hemivertebra are reported. A satisfactory correction was obtained by use of a combined anterior and posterior operative procedure. Surgical treatment is indicated for prevention, and our treatment of congenital spinal kyphosis in this series was excellent without serious postoperative complication. PMID- 2528427 TI - [Preliminary study on mutagenicity of MeIQ and extracts of fried fish and antimutagenicity of some dietary factors]. AB - 2-amino-3,4-dimethylimidazo (4,5-f) quinoline (MeIQ) and extracts of fried fish showed a strong mutagenicity as reflected backward mutation in Salmonella typhimurium. Significant inhibitory effects on mutagenicity induced by MeIQ or extracts of fried fish were found by simultaneous treatment with extracts of fresh vegetables, fruits and especially green tea antioxidants. The results indicated that some mutagens and/or carcinogens might be produced during high temperature cooking of some animal meats. The frequent intake of fresh vegetables, fruits and green tea might be beneficial in the prevention of human cancer. PMID- 2528428 TI - [A preliminary study on the changes of T-cell subsets in patients with aplastic anemia treated with qigong]. AB - It has been well known that Qigong keeping one in a self-controlling condition is a traditional method for promoting human health, prolong life and treating several kinds of diseases refractory to other remedies. As aplastic anemia (AA) is one of the disease poor responded to conventional therapy. Qigong was applied to a number of AA patients. Five principle methods of Qigong were practiced as fellows: (1) Regulating respiration consciously to tonify Qi; (2) ameliorating the digestive function on tiptoe; (3) holding one's head for tranquilizing; (4) massaging the loins to nourish the essence; (5) at one's ease to regulate the circulation of Qi and blood. Besides according to the various conditions of different patients, some other Qigong methods such as for anti-inflammation and analgesia, diuretic, massage to viscerals etc. were also applied for symptomatic treatment. In authors' previous work by ABC immune enzymic assay, the authors have shown in most AA patients, their suppressor T cell (Ts) were significantly increased, the helper T cell (Th) dropped resulting in a decreased ratio of Th/Ts. The changes of T-cells subsets were investigated in 10 cases treated by Qigong. For the patients in Qigong therapy, their Th and the ratio of Th/Ts were greatly elevated than those without Qigong treatment (P less than 0.02). In addition, Ts went down but not significantly in Qigong treating patients. Because the change of T cell subsets play an important role in the pathogenesis of AA, the reversion of the change by treating with Qigong may be a promising way for recovery of the AA patients. PMID- 2528429 TI - Expression of the major human ribonucleoprotein (RNP) autoantigens in Escherichia coli and their use in an EIA for screening sera from patients with autoimmune diseases. PMID- 2528430 TI - Effect of light on reactions between N1-methylnicotinamide and methyl ketones. PMID- 2528431 TI - Plasma protein S in disseminated intravascular coagulation, liver disease, collagen disease, diabetes mellitus, and under oral anticoagulant therapy. AB - Plasma levels of protein S (PS) antigen, both total and free fractions, were measured together with C4b-binding protein (C4bp) and protein C (PC) antigen in 39 patients with disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), 34 with liver disease, 17 with collagen disease, 17 with diabetes mellitus, and 51 under stabilized warfarin treatment. In patients with DIC, mean concentrations of total PS and free PS were normal, while PC was reduced and C4bp were elevated. Total PS, free PS, C4bp and PC were all decreased in liver disease, elevated in diabetes mellitus, and normal in collagen disease. In warfarin-treated patients, total PS, free PS and PC were moderately decreased, but the decrease in C4bp was minimal. The concentration of PS correlated positively with PC in liver disease, diabetes mellitus, and during oral anticoagulation, but did not in DIC. These results indicate that PS and PC behave similarly when liver synthetic function is principally affected, but in contrast to PC, PS is hardly consumed during intravascular coagulation. PMID- 2528433 TI - Functional analysis of lymphocytes subpopulations in experimental cocaine abuse. I. Dose-dependent activation of lymphocyte subsets. AB - The potential role of substance abuse, especially cocaine and alcohol as co factor in HIV infection and in the development and expression of AIDS has been suggested, but the possible biological role of substance abuse in the development of AIDS is not known. In order to better understand immune system function in chronic cocaine abuse, we have assessed primary B cell responses to helper T-cell independent (TI) and dependent (TD) antigens in inbred Fisher male rats injected with 1.25-5 mg cocaine/kg body weight for 10 days. The ability of cocaine-exposed animals to mount primary in vivo splenic plaque-forming cell (PFC) and serum antibody responses to the TI antigen, pneumococcal polysaccharide type III (SIII), was elevated several-fold when compared with controls. The degree of elevation of humoral antibody responses seemed to be directly related to the dose of cocaine. Primary in vivo B cell responses to the TD antigen, sheep red blood cells (SRBC), was elevated at lower concentrations of cocaine (1.25-2.5 mg/kg) and was found to be significantly suppressed after chronic exposure to the higher concentration (5.0 mg/kg). The elevated primary splenic immunostimulation to TI (SIII) may be attributed to a combination of loss of T suppressor cell control and direct B cell stimulation. Elevated immune responses to SRBC at lower concentrations were attributed to stimulation of T helper cells as well as loss of T suppressor cells. Immunosuppression to SRBC observed in response to 5.0 mg/kg of cocaine was most probably due to loss of T helper cell subset functions. These findings were further tested by in vitro methods, where splenic lymphocytes from cocaine-exposed animals were examined for their ability to respond to concanavalin A (Con A) in terms of the induction of antigen non-specific suppressor T cells. The addition of Con A-stimulated splenic lymphocytes from cocaine-treated animals did not inhibit the primary antibody responses of SRBC as compared with saline-treated controls, indicating that suppressor T cells malfunction after cocaine exposure. Lymphocyte subpopulation analysis using fluorescein-labelled monoclonal antibodies showed a significant increase in the B cell populations at doses of 1.25-5 mg/kg. A reciprocal change in T cell populations also took place. No significant numerical change in macrophage (NSE+) and T cell subset, T helper and T suppressor was noticed, suggesting that cocaine probably directly effects mature T cell subset functions but does not affect their differentiation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2528434 TI - Infertility surgery: operative endoscopy, new instruments and techniques. PMID- 2528432 TI - Placental isoferritin as a physiological downregulator of cellular immunoreactivity during pregnancy. AB - CM-H-9 monoclonal antibody specific for placental isoferritin (PLF) was used to quantify PLF in the serum and on peripheral blood lymphocytes derived from term delivery women and healthy controls. It was found that the mean level of PLF in maternal sera was 50.4 +/- 50.1 U/ml, whereas in normal adults the mean serum PLF level was very low (4.5 +/- 7.7 U/ml). Furthermore, term mothers exhibited a sub population of peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) which stained positively with CM H-9 MoAb (mean 11.6 +/- 7.8%). Such lymphocytes were scarce in normal non pregnant women (mean 0.8 +/- 1.2%). The effect of PLF on lymphocyte transformation in MLC was studied in mixed lymphocyte cultures of maternal newborn and normal non-related PBL controls. It was found that placental isoferritin was immunosuppressive in comparison to normal adult ferritin. The suppressive effect was significantly higher in maternal-newborn MLC compared to normal adult controls. Furthermore, it was found that PLF which is present in maternal serum has an immunosuppressive activity since, its removal on CM-H-9 MoAb affinity column abrogated this effect. The results of this study suggest that both PLF and PLF binding lymphocytes play a role in the development of immunosuppression during pregnancy. Therefore the lack of one of the factors may result in diminished immunosuppression or in fetal rejection. PMID- 2528435 TI - Amyloid plaques in the cerebellum in Alzheimer's disease. AB - The brains of patients with a clinical history of Alzheimer's disease were collected for study. In 57 cases the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease was confirmed histologically. The disease was of senile onset (over the age of 65 years) in 40 cases, of presenile onset in 8 cases, and there were 9 cases of Down's syndrome with Alzheimer's disease. In each case the cerebellum was examined for the presence of amyloid plaques. Cerebellar amyloid plaques were found in 31 of the 57 cases (52%) and were present in all 3 clinical groups. Amyloid involvement of the cerebral and cerebellar arteries was marked in many but not all of the cases with cerebellar amyloid plaques. The significance of cerebellar plaques is uncertain, but their presence in Alzheimer's disease is by no means as rare as previously thought. The findings are described and some preliminary clinicopathological correlations are made. PMID- 2528436 TI - N-acetylator variability in Down's syndrome: characterization with caffeine. AB - Little is known regarding the biotransformation of drugs in Down's syndrome. In particular, there are no published studies that examine metabolic pathways such as N-acetylation, which can exhibit genetically-determined variability. The objective of the present investigation was to compare the acetylator phenotypes of white subjects with Down's syndrome with age-matched control subjects, with use of caffeine as the pharmacologic probe. After the ingestion of caffeine containing beverages, spot urine collections were obtained at 2 and 4 hours in 22 subjects with Down's syndrome and in 22 control subjects (age range of 4 to 49 years). The urinary excretion ratios of 5-acetylamino-6-amino-3-methyluracil (AAMU) to 1-methylxanthine (1X) determined in these 2-hour and 4-hour samples were highly correlated (r = 0.82; p less than 0.001). In addition, more extensive urinary excretion studies performed for an 8-hour period in three subjects with Down's syndrome demonstrated that the coefficient of variability for the ratio of AAMU/1X ranged from 10.1% to 14.2%, which is similar to the reproducibility previously reported for control subjects. A trimodal distribution of acetylator phenotypes was observed, with no differences in average or frequency distribution of ratio values between the subjects with Down's syndrome and the control subjects. This study demonstrates that polymorphic N-acetylator status, as assessed by caffeine metabolism, is similar in subjects with Down's syndrome and in control subjects. PMID- 2528437 TI - Plasminogen polymorphism in swine. AB - 1. Plasminogen polymorphism in swine (Sus scrofa) plasma was demonstrated by immunoblotting. 2. Eleven plasminogen phenotypic patterns, including a null pattern, were detected. 3. The null pattern was associated with extremely low plasma triglyceride and increased unesterified cholesterol levels. 4. Changes in plasminogen polymorphic patterns from the fetal to neonate status were observed after nursing commenced. PMID- 2528438 TI - Anion atpases from rainbow trout gills showing high and low anion affinity. AB - 1. Chloride-bicarbonate ATPase shows two affinity constants for the bicarbonate ion; a low affinity constant (Km=12.5mEq/1) and a high affinity constant (Km=0.17mEq/1), suggesting that two separate enzymes may exist. 2. In the presence of 5mEq/1 Cl- the low affinity Km is increased to 2.5mEq/1. 3. Chloride alone does not activate the enzyme, but in the presence of 4mEq/1 HCO3- the Km value is 5mEq/1. PMID- 2528439 TI - Benzoyl peroxide in the treatment of acne vulgaris: a double-blind, multi-centre comparative study of 'Quinoderm' cream and 'Quinoderm' cream with hydrocortisone versus their base vehicle alone and a benzoyl peroxide only gel preparation. AB - A double-blind, multi-centre general practice study was carried out to compare the effectiveness of benzoyl peroxide/potassium hydroxyquinoline sulphate cream, with or without hydrocortisone, its aqueous astringent cream base alone, and a benzoyl peroxide alcoholic gel in the treatment of 107 patients with acne vulgaris. Patients on entry were allocated at random to one of four treatment groups and instructed to apply the medication twice daily to all affected areas for 12 weeks. Assessments of the severity of acne on the face, chest and back, and response to treatment were made at 2, 4, 8 and 12 weeks. Acceptability of the treatment, i.e. 'greasiness', was also assessed by patients. The results showed that the combination cream preparation produced a greater reduction in acne scores than did the base or benzoyl peroxide alone. The addition of 1% hydrocortisone eliminated the flare reaction to benzoyl peroxide seen in patients in the other two active treatment groups. The majority of patients found the preparations cosmetically acceptable. PMID- 2528440 TI - Etodolac therapy for osteoarthritis: a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. AB - The efficacy of etodolac (600 mg/day) and placebo were compared in a 4-week double-blind, parallel-group study involving 104 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee and 106 with osteoarthritis of the hip. Most patients had improvement of their symptoms during the study, but significantly more improvement was seen in the patients taking etodolac. Patients with osteoarthritis of the knee taking etodolac had significantly (p less than 0.05) more improvement than placebo treated patients in joint swelling, weight-bearing pain, and patient's overall assessment. Patients with osteoarthritis of the hip taking etodolac had significantly (p less than 0.05) greater improvement than placebo-treated patients in hip abduction, weight-bearing pain, joint tenderness, investigator's overall assessment, and patient's overall assessment. The frequency of adverse events was not statistically different in the two treatment groups. However, significantly (p = 0.05) more etodolac-treated patients (n = 9) than placebo treated patients (n = 2) reported indigestion. The incidence of adverse events was similar in patients aged 65 years and older to that in patients younger than 65 years. Results of laboratory evaluations indicated that etodolac therapy was associated with no more hepatic or renal enzyme abnormalities than was placebo. PMID- 2528441 TI - Efficacy and tolerability of etodolac in the treatment of osteoarthritis. AB - An open clinical trial was carried out in 57 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee, hip or spine to assess the effectiveness and tolerability of etodolac. Patients received 200 mg etodolac twice daily for a period of 2 weeks. The results of clinical and patient assessments made at baseline and at the end of the study period showed that there was significant improvement in pain at rest and on active and passive movement, local tenderness, pain on climbing stairs, joint swelling and functional status. No significant changes were seen in clinical severity of the condition or, in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee, in the degree of knee flexion. Patients judged the therapeutic results to be good or excellent more often than the investigator (75% vs 50%). Tolerability of etodolac was very good with few, generally mild side-effects and only 2 patients were withdrawn, more as a precautionary measure than of necessity. PMID- 2528442 TI - Regional changes in ornithine decarboxylase activity and polyamine levels during thyroxine-induced cardiac hypertrophy. AB - Ornithine decarboxylase activities (ODC) and polyamine levels were determined in five cardiac regions of the rat heart, following daily administration of 1 mg/kg of thyroxine, in the right and left atria, the right and left ventricles and the septum. The thyroxine stimulated ODC activity in all five regions of the heart. Enzyme activity in the left atrium and the septum peaked a day earlier than in other regions and the decline of ODC activity was slower. Putrescine in control animals was present in all regions except the right atrium, where its content was below detectable levels. Following the administration of thyroxine, the putrescine content of the left atrium, the right ventricle and the septum declined, while spermidine and spermine levels remained unchanged. In direct contrast to the other regions of the heart, thyroxine stimulated an increase in polyamines, as well as in weight which occurred exclusively in the left ventricle. These findings suggest a causal relationship between increased polyamines and hypertrophy. PMID- 2528443 TI - Beta-endorphin-like immunoreactivity in CSF of patients with acute head injury. A clinical report of 36 cases. AB - beta-endorphin-like immunoreactivity (beta-ELI) was measured in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of 36 patients with acute head injury and 12 controls. The mean values of beta-ELI in CSF of controls and patients with moderate and severe acute head injury were 51.9 +/- 5.6 pg/ml, 110.5 pg/ml, and 173.8 +/- 20.1 pg/ml respectively, with significant difference between them (p less than 0.05). The results showed that beta-ELI increased in CSF of acute head injury patients. PMID- 2528444 TI - [Prevention of pain in the lumbosacral segment of the spine]. AB - The principles of prophylaxis of back pain have been presented on the grounds of data from literature on present knowledge in physiology and pathomechanics of the lumbar spine and the authors own experience. Pointing out the most frequent causes of low back pain, proper methods of reduction of spine overloading, to which the 20-century man is exposed, have been suggested. PMID- 2528445 TI - [Mechanism of cell damage by hematoporphyrin derivative (HPD) plus light. III. Effect of HPD plus light on lysosomes of liver and hepatoma cell]. AB - The effects of HPD plus light on lysosome membrane and release of hydrolysis enzymes from lysosomes of normal rat liver and hepatoma cells were investigated. HPD was bound to lysosome either in vitro or in vivo. Lysosomes bound HPD plus light increased lipid peroxidation of unsaturated fatty acid of lysosome membrane and enhanced the activity of DNase, RNase, cathepsin and acid phosphatase. These effects were related to HPD concentration and exposure time but it was unchanged in the control. It was concluded that the enhancement of hydrolysis enzymes from lysosomes was due to the lysosome membrane damage under the action of siglet oxygen produced by HPD bound lysosomes following light activation. PMID- 2528446 TI - [Effect of splenectomy on the growth of W256 carcinosarcoma and T cell subsets of peripheral blood in rat]. AB - Rats were randomized into splenectomised and sham-splenectomised groups (n = 15 in each). W256 carcinosarcoma cells were implanted in the subcutis of each animal 10 days after splenic operation. T cell subsets of peripheral blood were evaluated serially before and after the operation. The growth rate of implanted tumor and diameter of local tumor in the splenectomised were larger than those of the sham-splenectomised. Simultaneously T cell subsets of peripheral blood presented severe reduction of pan-T and T h/i cells and slight increase of T s/c cells in the splenectomised, all of which still remained at the lower level after tumor inoculation, as compared with the non-tumor and tumor growth in sham splenectomised (P less than 0.01). From these data, it is evident that splenectomy results in the reduction of T h/i cells and a relative increase of T s/c cells, which shows a close correlation with the rapid growth of the tumor following splenectomy. PMID- 2528447 TI - [The occurrence of Fusarium toxins in feed]. AB - Fusariotoxins can be found in imported feed as well as in crops from the Middle Europe-Region. Concerning frequency of contamination, zearalenone is most important in the Federal Republic of Germany. From the grains, maize and oats are mainly affected. Frequency and intensity of contamination however, variates, depending on several factors as climate or genetical resistance. Typical districts with high frequency of contamination cannot be found in the FRG at the present status of knowledge. Feed-intoxications by zearalenone predominantly can be seen in pigs, cases with ruminants, horses or fowl rarely can be found. As imported feeds--especially those of the by-products of the wet-milling technique of maize--can be contaminated with zearalenone, a consequent control is demanded. Additionally culture techniques, genetical selection, seed treatment and harvesting should be optimized. A scientific-based tolerable limit till now cannot be stated. There are however some hints, that female pigs show cystic degenerations of the ovary receiving 50 microgram per kg diet. Naturally contaminated feed with 100 microgram fed for several weeks to growing female pigs induced signs of hyperestrogenism. Trichothecene contamination was found with lower frequency in the Federal Republic especially with DON, which dominates in Austria and some districts of the USA. From the contaminated feeds, maize and oats should be mentioned with priority. Ensiled products of the maize plant show some degradation during the ensiling process. Husks contain higher levels than the endosperm. No differences between conventionally and alternatively (biologic dynamic) grown crops could be found. A value for a tolerable daily intake cannot be stated at the present status of knowledge.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528448 TI - Aggravation of inappropriate luteinizing hormone secretion by bromocriptine in polycystic ovary syndrome with elevated serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate. AB - Ten clomiphene-resistant, normoprolactinemic women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) were treated by continuous and increasing administration of bromocriptine (Brc), and changes in hormonal profiles as well as therapeutic efficacy were examined. Ovulation was restored in four patients (responders), and two of them became pregnant, whereas the other six patients did not ovulate with Brc alone (non-responders). Endocrine analyses revealed distinct differences between responders and non-responders: 1) pretreatment serum levels of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHAS) in non-responders were significantly higher than those in responders: 2) exaggerated LH secretion was definitely aggravated with Brc therapy in non-responders, but unchanged or slightly reduced in responders: 3) basal PRL secretions showed a marked reduction in both groups, whereas this response to TRH in responders decreased more markedly than in non responders with the therapy. It is concluded that low DHAS group patients of PCOS are likely to respond to Brc, whereas high DHAS group patients appear contraindicated for this treatment due to its aggravating effect on LH secretion. PMID- 2528449 TI - Diffuse multinodular hepatic steatosis of metastatic appearance. A case description. PMID- 2528450 TI - Dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase activity in human blood mononuclear cells. AB - Dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD; EC 1.3.1.2) catalyzes the rate-limiting reaction in the catabolism of endogenous uracil and thymine and exogenous fluoropyrimidines. DPD activity was studied in human blood mononuclear cell supernatants utilizing a new and sensitive radiochromatographic assay. Total DPD activity showed a linear correlation with supernatant protein concentration. The affinity constants (Km) for NADPH and thymine were approximately 10 and 1 mumol/l, respectively. Maximal activity (Vmax) was observed at 0.25 mmol/l NADPH and 10 mumol/l thymine, respectively. DPD activity in normal individuals was 8.0 +/- (SD) 2.2 nmol/mg protein/h, and ranged from 4.4 to 12.3 nmol/mg/h (n = 25). This activity range was quite similar to values obtained in patients with metastatic solid tumors treated with fluorodeoxyuridine (FUdR; n = 33, p = 0.57). No correlation was found to exist between mononuclear leucocyte DPD activity and the observed toxicity of FUdR in the tested patients. A bimodal distribution of DPD activity was observed in the patients and in normal individuals. The entire study population tested could be divided into two groups with respect to DPD activity; one group with high (greater than 8 nmol/mg/h) activity and another with low (less than 8 nmol/mg/h) activity. The possibility that sex differences may have been responsible for this distribution of DPD activity could not be excluded. The findings of this study are relevant to the pharmacogenetics of fluoropyrimidines in humans. PMID- 2528451 TI - Complete amino acid sequence of a new murine T-cell growth factor P40. AB - A new murine T-cell growth factor, designated P40, which supports growth of helper T-cells in the absence of interleukin-2, interleukin-4 and antigen has been isolated from helper T-cell lines in sufficient quantities (100 micrograms) to permit its complete amino acid sequence determination. This was achieved by a combination of sensitive peptide mapping using microbore reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography and automated microsequence analysis. Attempts to obtain N-terminal sequence data on P40 were unsuccessful due to N-terminal blockage of the native molecule. The nature of this N-terminal blocking was established using a combination of amino acid analysis, fast-atom-bombardment mass spectrometry and peptide synthesis. The P40 molecule, a single polypeptide chain comprising 126 amino acid residues, is structurally distinct from other known T-cell growth factors. No similarity was revealed when the amino acid sequence of P40 was compared with other proteins whose biochemical structure is known. The protein sequence data reported here predict four N-linked glycosylation sites in the P40 molecule. PMID- 2528452 TI - Evidence of a calcium-induced structural change in the ATP-binding site of the sarcoplasmic-reticulum Ca2+-ATPase using terbium formycin triphosphate as an analogue of Mg-ATP. AB - Terbium ions and terbium formycin triphosphate have been used to investigate the interactions between the cation and nucleotide binding sites of the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase. Three classes of Tb3+-binding sites have been found: a first class of low-affinity (Kd = 10 microM) corresponds to magnesium binding sites, located near a tryptophan residue of the protein; a second class of much higher affinity (less than 0.1 microM) corresponds to the calcium transport sites, their occupancy by terbium induces the E1 to E2 conformational change of the Ca2+-ATPase; a third class of sites is revealed by following the fluorescence transfer from formycin triphosphate (FTP) to terbium, evidencing that terbium ions can also bind into the nucleotide binding site at the same time as FTP. Substitution of H2O by D2O shows that Tb-FTP binding to the enzyme nucleotide site is associated with an important dehydration of the terbium ions associated with FTP. Two terbium ions, at least, bind to the Ca2+-ATPase in the close vicinity of FTP when this nucleotide is bound to the ATPase nucleotide site. Addition of calcium quenches the fluorescence signal of the terbium-FTP complex bound to the enzyme. Calcium concentration dependence shows that this effect is associated with the replacement of terbium by calcium in the transport sites, inducing the E2----E1 transconformation when calcium is bound. One interpretation of this fluorescence quenching is that the E1----E2 transition induces an important structural change in the nucleotide site. Another interpretation is that the high-affinity calcium sites are located very close to the Tb-FTP complex bound to the nucleotide site. PMID- 2528453 TI - Localization of the ATP-binding site in the 23-kDa and 20-kDa regions of the heavy chain of the skeletal muscle myosin head. AB - Three kinds of ATP analogues were synthesized. These ATP analogues can be classified into two conformations, i.e. syn and anti forms with respect to the N glycosidic bond between adenine and ribose groups of ATP. 3'-O-(N Methylanthraniloyl)-2-azidoadenosine 5'-triphosphate (MantN2(3)ATP) is recognized as the anti form, as ATP, and the other two, 3'-O-(N-methylanthraniloyl)-8 azidoadenosine 5'-triphosphate (MantN8(3)ATP) and 1,N6-etheno-8-azidoadenosine 5' triphosphate (epsilon N8(3)ATP) are both syn forms. Mant and etheno groups are both fluorescent which allows detection of their binding to proteins. The photochemical binding of azido groups in ATP analogues to the myosin active site, examined in the presence and absence of ATP, showed that all the analogues bound to the site of myosin ATPase. These analogues also acted as substrates of the ATPase and were hydrolyzed in the active site, as judged by competitive inhibition of the ATPase and by their ATPase activities. Of these analogues, MantN2(3)ATP is very similar to ATP in divalent-cation dependence of its hydrolysis rate and in its ability to trap ADP in the active site with vanadate, while the other two are different from ATP in these respects. The photochemical binding sites of ATP analogues were localized by gel electrophoresis of trypsinized myosin ATPase with photocross-linked ATP analogues and/or by isolating the modified peptides. MantN2(3)ATP was found in the 23-kDa fragment which has a structure common to ATP-binding proteins, i.e. Gly-Xaa-Xaa-Gly-Xaa Gly-Lys-Thr. Mant N8(3)ATP was found in a region of the 20-kDa fragment where actin is reported to attach. PMID- 2528454 TI - Comparative in vitro activity of norfloxacin against resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae. AB - The in vitro activity of seven antibiotics against 52 isolates of Neisseria gonorrhoeae was determined. Against penicillinase-producing Neisseria gonorrhoeae, ceftriaxone was the most active agent (MIC90 0.015 micrograms/ml), followed by ceftizoxime and norfloxacin (MIC90 0.03-0.125 micrograms/ml). Against spectinomycin-resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the most active agents were ceftizoxime, ceftriaxone and norfloxacin (MIC90 0.015-0.125 micrograms/ml). Ceftizoxime, ceftriaxone and norfloxacin were also the most active agents against tetracycline-resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae (MIC90 0.06-0.125 micrograms/ml). Overall, the rank order of activity from the most to the least active agent was as follows: ceftizoxime (MIC90 0.015 micrograms/ml); ceftriaxone (MIC90 0.06 micrograms/ml); norfloxacin (MIC90 0.125 micrograms/ml); cefoxitin (MIC90 2 micrograms/ml); tetracycline (MIC90 8 micrograms/ml); penicillin (MIC90 greater than 8 micrograms/ml); and spectinomycin (MIC90 greater than 128 micrograms/ml). PMID- 2528455 TI - Microtubule bundles of Reticulomyxa networks are of uniform polarity. PMID- 2528456 TI - Obstacles to integrating disabled students in a "two-roof" elementary school. AB - This article describes a 5-year effort to integrate special and regular students on a campus where special and regular education students are housed in separate but adjacent facilities with separate administrators. Observational data and questionnaires revealed almost total segregation at the end of 3 years. An intensive intervention program, Project L.E.A.D., generated promising short-term movement toward integration, but there were few enduring effects. Physical, social, and psychological barriers created by the two-roof school erect almost insurmountable obstacles to integration. Future efforts should concentrate on building one-roof schools with a single facility and administration. PMID- 2528457 TI - Honig v. Doe: the suspension and expulsion of handicapped students. AB - Public Law 94-142 provides for a free appropriate public education for all handicapped children, but does not address the issue of disciplining handicapped students. The result has been confusion and uncertainty, particularly concerning expulsion and suspension. The courts have been forced into this vacuum, acting as arbiters. The Supreme Court's ruling in Honig v. Doe will help to delineate the proper role of educators in the suspension and expulsion of handicapped students. This article examines that role and offers recommendations for school policies regarding the discipline of handicapped students. PMID- 2528458 TI - Extra-pancreatic action of glibenclamide in man: reduction in vitro of the inhibitory effect of glucagon and epinephrine on the hepatic key glycolytic enzymes phosphofructokinase (PFK) and pyruvate kinase (PK). AB - Human liver slices (surgery biopsies) were preincubated with glucagon or epinephrine for 10 min at 37 degrees C in Krebs-Henseleit solution at pH 7.4, in the absence or presence of glibenclamide, and then homogenized and assayed for phosphofructokinase (PFK) and pyruvate kinase (PK) activity at subsaturating, near physiological, substrate concentrations (suitable for detecting regulatory effects). Preincubation with 10 microM glucagon (n = 7) or 10 microM epinephrine (n = 7) resulted in a reduction of PFK activity of 25% (P less than 0.02) and 29% (P less than 0.05), respectively. Addition of 2 microM glibenclamide in the preincubation mixture reduced the inhibitory effect of glucagon by 99% (P less than 0.05) and that of epinephrine by 70% (P less than 0.01). Likewise, 10 microM glucagon (n = 6) or 10 microM epinephrine (n = 4) reduced PK activity by 40% (P less than 0.01) and 46% (P less than 0.01), respectively. Addition of 2 microM glibenclamide significantly reduced the inhibitory effect of glucagon by 77% (P less than 0.05) and that of epinephrine by 33% (P less than 0.05). In the absence of the hormones, glibenclamide was without effect. Thus, glibenclamide opposes the inhibitory effect of glucagon and epinephrine on two key hepatic glycolytic enzymes. Since the inhibition of key glycolytic enzymes favours gluconeogenesis, the observed action of glibenclamide, if it occurs also in vivo, might reduce the glucagon- and epinephrine-stimulated gluconeogenesis, and could be regarded as an insulin-like action. PMID- 2528459 TI - Changes of immunoregulatory cells induced by acoustic stress in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, sarcoidosis, and in healthy controls. AB - In order to determine whether the characteristically attenuated cell mobilization after physical stress in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or sarcoidosis is disease specific or the result of lower tolerance for such stress, SLE and sarcoidosis patients as well as healthy volunteers were subjected to an acoustic stress model, independent of physical capacity. After a 10-min period of intermittent acoustic stress, healthy subjects showed significant increases in leucocyte and lymphocyte counts, marked relative elevations of B and T suppressor cytotoxic lymphocytes (P less than 0.01), and a relative reduction in T helper lymphocytes (P less than 0.01). By contrast, this degree of change was significantly less pronounced in the 14 female SLE patients studied (P less than 0.01) as compared with the healthy controls, but not in the 12 sarcoidosis patients tested. No dependence was found between the severity of disease or administration of corticosteroid therapy and cell mobilization. It is yet to be determined whether the attenuated response of SLE patients to stress is a consequence of pathophysiological mechanisms or plays an aetiopathogenic role in the course of the disease. PMID- 2528460 TI - Bispecific F (ab')2 monomer prepared with anti-CD3 and anti-tumor monoclonal antibodies is most potent in induction of cytolysis of human T cells. AB - Induction of cytolytic activity of peripheral blood mononuclear cells towards target cells was studied by preparing bispecific F(ab')2 which was composed of two Fab' fragments, one of which was derived from anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody and the other from anti-tumor monoclonal antibody. After reduction of the interchange disulfide bonds of these fragments by dithiothreitol, a thiol disulfide interchain reagent, 5,5'-dithiobis-2-nitrobenzoic acid, was added to convert the free SH groups of one of the Fab' fragments to mixed disulfide derivatives. These were then coupled with the other Fab' fragment bearing free SH groups, producing a bispecific hybrid F(ab')2 monomer of high yield. The bispecific F(ab')2 monomers were able to render nonactivated peripheral blood mononuclear cells cytotoxic against natural killer-resistant tumor cell lines at doses as low as 1 microgram/ml. The polymeric forms of the F(ab')2 fragments prepared by use of cross-linking reagents such as N-succinimidyl-3-(2 pyridyldithiol)-propionate (SPDP) or S-acetylmercaptosuccinic acid anhydride (SAMSA) were less efficient for induction of cytolytic activity than the monomeric one. It may be feasible to use bispecific F(ab')2 monomers in cancer immunotherapy because of the ease of preparation, as well as the efficiency in inducing cytolytic activity and their high tissue permeability due to their small size (100-110 kDa). In addition, redirected cytolytic activity towards peripheral blood mononuclear cells by reticuloendothelial system cells, resulting from linking these two types of cells through Fc-Fc receptor interactions, does not occur. PMID- 2528461 TI - Cytoplasmic CD3+ surface CD8+ lymphocytes develop as a thymus-independent lineage in chick-quail chimeras. AB - We have analyzed the embryonic development of a population of lymphoid cells that express a CD3 antigenic determinant in the cytoplasm but not on the cell surface. Since these cells lack T cell receptor (TcR) molecules, we have provisionally named them TCRO cells. Their development, expansion and distribution was investigated following transplantation of splenic and bursal fragments from chicken embryos into quail embryos. Since quail cells are not recognized by our panel of monoclonal antibodies against chicken TcR1, TcR2, TcR3, CD3, CD4 and CD8 molecules, these antibodies provided reliable markers for donor chick lymphocytes in the tissues of the quail recipients. Transplanted spleen and bursa both generated CD3+ cells, the number of which increased as a function of age. Notably, approximately half of these CD3+ cells expressed surface CD8, but none acquired TcR1 (gamma/delta), TcR2 (alpha/beta) or TcR3 expression. Since TCRO cells normally appear first in the spleen of 8-day chick embryos (E8), their generation in E6 splenic transplants indicated an extrathymic origin. The TCRO cells of chick splenic origin migrated to the spleen, bursa and thymus of the quail recipients. In six of seven chimeras acquiring CT3+ cells in the recipient thymus, these cells were restricted to the medulla and displayed the typical TCRO phenotype: CD3+CD8+TcR1-TcR2-TcR3-. These intrathymic TCRO cells also lacked the CT1 thymocyte antigen. We conclude that the TCRO cells represent a thymus independent lineage of lymphoid cells that can migrate into a receptive thymus by rarely, if ever, differentiate into conventional T cells. PMID- 2528462 TI - Schistosoma mansoni-specific rat T cell clones. II. Different effects of adult worm-specific T cell clones in immunocompetent and nude infected rats. AB - The in vivo functional activities of two highly proliferating helper rat T cell clones (E23 and G5) specific for the excretory-secretory antigens of Schistosoma mansoni adult worms were investigated. When injected into infected immunocompetent rats, both clones increased the antibody response against the 30 40-kDa schistosomulum surface antigens, but failed to induce an immune protection. In contrast, when the same clones were injected into infected nude rats, a high degree of protection was obtained. In this latter case the absence of detectable specific antibody response, whether of IgE or IgG isotype, suggested that parasites were destroyed by an antibody-independent mechanism, i.e. macrophages activation by lymphokines. Indeed supernatants obtained from T cell clones specifically restimulated with schistosome antigens expressed a macrophage activated activity similar to interferon-gamma. Following incubation with these supernatants or with the active fractions, macrophages exhibited a significant schistosomulicidal activity and both clones were shown to transfer an antigen-specific delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction to normal rats. Taken together these results demonstrate that, depending on the immune status of the host, antigen-specific T cell clones can function differently and consequently that one function associated with one type of lymphokine could be favored. PMID- 2528463 TI - Gamma/delta T cells express a unique surface molecule appearing late during thymic development. AB - The vast majority of T cells in man and mouse use the alpha/beta form of T cell receptor (TcR), and express either CD4 or CD8, whereas the small subset of gamma/delta T cells are usually CD4-CD8-. In contrast to man and mouse, the gamma/delta subset in sheep, defined here using an anti-gamma/delta monoclonal antibody (mAb), comprises 30%-60% of T cells. We show that gamma/delta T cells in sheep express a unique surface molecule termed T19 which is 215 kDa in size and unrelated to either CD45 or the TcR. The T19 molecule was expressed at a distinct stage during gamma/delta T cell ontogeny within the thymus, since gamma/delta thymocytes which appeared early in fetal ontogeny were T19- and also major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I- and localized almost exclusively to the outer cortex and cortex of the thymus. "Mature-type" gamma/delta thymocytes which emerged late in thymic development were T19+ and MHC class I+ and localized predominantly to the thymic medulla. The sequence of events indicated that these cells were most likely derived from the early gamma/delta thymocytes. These medullary gamma/delta thymocytes showed a very distinctive association with Hassall's corpuscles, suggesting a role for these structures in gamma/delta thymocyte maturation. In the periphery, T19 was expressed exclusively within the gamma/delta T cell subset, however some gamma/delta T cells were T19-. In particular, a large proportion of gamma/delta T cells within intestinal epithelium lacked T19, indicating a correlation between T19 expression and either function or homing patterns of gamma/delta T cells. Both T19+ and T19- gamma/delta T cells were CD2-, and expressed low levels of LFA-1 and CD5. In addition, gamma/delta T cells recirculated differently from other T cells, and appeared not to enter mesenteric lymph nodes at all from the blood. We propose that T19 is a maturation marker for gamma/delta T cells. In addition, the exclusive expression of T19 by gamma/delta T cells indicates that this molecule most likely serves a fundamental role in the interactions and function of gamma/delta T cells. PMID- 2528464 TI - Alleviation of autoimmunity in BXSB mice by monoclonal alloantibody to Ly-5 (CD45). AB - One of the hallmarks of immunological abnormalities in mice that are prone to syndromes resembling systemic lupus erythematosus is polyclonal activation of B cells and a switch of serum immunoglobulins or autoantibodies from IgM to IgG that coincides with onset of autoimmune disease. Therefore, we investigated whether the development of autoimmunity can be alleviated in such mice by administration of monoclonal alloantibody directed against Ly-5, because this was known to reduce levels of polyclonal IgG antibody without affecting other immunoglobulin isotypes. Our results indicate that at least some forms of autoimmune disease may be effectively treated by thus reducing the concentration of IgG autoantibody in this manner. PMID- 2528465 TI - Acetylcholine release from rat hippocampal slices is modulated by 5 hydroxytryptamine. AB - Experiments were performed with slices of rat hippocampus in order to investigate whether the release of acetylcholine in this area is modulated through 5 hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) receptors. The slices were prelabeled with [3H]choline then stimulated electrically twice for 4 min each at a frequency of 3 Hz. The overflow of tritium evoked was inhibited by exogenous 5-HT in a concentration dependent manner. The 5-HT2 receptor agonist, 1-(2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodophenyl)-2 aminopropane HC1 ((+/-)-DOI), did not mimic 5-HT. The effect of 5-HT was antagonized by methiothepin but not by the 5-HT2 antagonist, ketanserin. The 5 HT1 agonist, 5-methoxy-3-[1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridin-4-yl]-1H-indole (RU 24969), inhibited the electrically evoked overflow of tritium, whereas the 5-HT1A selective agonist, 8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)tetralin (8-OH-DPAT), was ineffective. Methiothepin itself, but not ketanserin, increased the evoked overflow of tritium. In contrast, the overflow was inhibited by the 5-HT uptake blocker, 6-nitroquipazine. The evoked overflow was also reduced by d fenfluramine, a serotonin releaser. The concentration-inhibition curve for d fenfluramine was shifted to the right by methiothepin. It is concluded that the release of ACh in rat hippocampus may be tonically inhibited by 5-HT through the activation of receptors, possibly belonging to the 5-HT1B subtype. PMID- 2528466 TI - Glibenclamide is a competitive antagonist of cromakalim, pinacidil and RP 49356 in guinea-pig pulmonary artery. AB - The relaxant effect of cromakalim (BRL 34915), pinacidil and RP 49356 (N-methyl-2 (3-pyridyl)-tetrahydro-thiopyran-2-carbothioamide-1-ox ide) on the sustained contractions induced by 20 mM KCl were compared with the effects of nicorandil. The preparation used was vascular smooth muscle of phenoxybenzamine-treated pulmonary artery rings from reserpinized guinea-pigs. Cromakalim, pinacidil, RP 49356 and nicorandil relaxed the tissues with -log EC50 values of 6.78, 6.12, 6.02 and 5.46, respectively. The inhibitory effect of cromakalim, pinacidil and RP 49356, but not of nicorandil, was competitively antagonized by glibenclamide (10(-7)-3 X 10(-6) M), yielding uniform pA2 values of 7.17-7.22 against all three relaxant drugs. The order of potency of other K+ channel blocking agents for the inhibition of vasorelaxation by cromakalim, pinacidil and RP 49356 was procaine greater than 4-aminopyridine greater than tetraethylammonium. The mainly competitive type of inhibition of the RP 49356-induced response was more comparable to that with pinacidil than with cromakalim. The relaxation caused by nicorandil was only attenuated by a high concentration of 4-aminopyridine or tetraethylammonium but was markedly antagonized by methylene blue (3 X 10(-6)-10( 5) M) and potentiated by M & B 22948 (3 X 10(-6)-10(-5) M). These results suggest that the vascular relaxation caused in guinea-pig pulmonary artery by cromakalim, pinacidil and RP 49356 is mediated through the same glibenclamide-sensitive K+ channel whereas the major mechanism for the effect of nicorandil seems to involve stimulation of guanylate cyclase. PMID- 2528467 TI - Autoradiographic localization of V1 vasopressin binding sites in rat brain and kidney. AB - Monoiodination of the V1 vasopressin antagonist [Mca1,Sar7]AVP did not alter its high-affinity binding to liver plasma membranes. Monoradioiodinated [Mca1,125I Tyr2,Sar7]AVP was therefore used to label V1-specific binding sites in the rat brain and kidney. The accumbens nucleus, the septal nucleus, the central amygdala, the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, the stigmoid hypothalamic nucleus and the nucleus of the solitary tract exhibited specific labeling with both the radioiodinated V1 antagonist and tritiated AVP. Of the circumventricular structures only the choroid plexi and the area postrema showed V1-specific binding sites. The subfornical organ and hypothalamic loci of AVP synthesis such as the paraventricular nucleus, the supraoptic nucleus and the suprachiasmatic nucleus were not marked by the V1 antagonist while bearing [3H]AVP binding sites. As demonstrated by HPLC and binding to liver plasma membranes, the radiolabeled antagonist remained intact during tissue incubation. In addition to renal cortical and medullary [3H]AVP binding sites, medullary tubular and vascular structures could be labeled with the V1 antagonist, indicating the presence of both V1 and V2 AVP receptor subtypes in the rat kidney. PMID- 2528468 TI - Survival and B-cell function of mouse pancreatic islets maintained in culture after concomitant exposure to streptozotocin and nicotinamide. AB - It has recently been suggested from experiments performed on isolated pancreatic islets in vitro, that streptozotocin (SZ) may exert a progressive damage to the islet B-cells. It may be that this damaging effect is not dependent on the acute activation of the enzyme poly(ADP-ribose) synthetase, and a subsequent depletion of the islet NAD content. In the present study we have exposed mouse pancreatic islets in vitro to 2.2 mM SZ for 30 min at 37 degrees C, in the presence or absence of 10 mM nicotinamide, an inhibitor of poly(ADP-ribose) synthetase and examined the islet function immediately (Day 0) or after six days of culture (Day 6). Nicotinamide protected the islets against an inhibition of the glucose stimulated insulin release on day 0 and against a SZ-induced loss in islet number and islet insulin content on day 6. However, on day 6 the islets incubated with SZ in the presence of nicotinamide showed an inhibition of the insulin release comparable to that observed in islets treated with SZ in the absence of nicotinamide. Furthermore, on day 0 nicotinamide counteracted a SZ-induced impairment of islet glucose oxidation, whereas on day 6 islets incubated with SZ both in the absence or presence of nicotinamide showed a similar and more markedly impaired oxidation of glucose.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528469 TI - Spontaneous recovery of streptozotocin diabetes in mice. AB - With the aim of developing a model of experimental diabetes by which spontaneous recovery processes can be investigated, we used a lower (1) and a higher (2) dose of streptozotocin (SZ) to find out the lowest possible dose definitely inducing diabetes in mice through beta cell loss but preventing excessive damage to the endocrine pancreas which would exclude restoration processes. After application of SZ (1) to neonatal mice only male animals showed an overt diabetes in adult life. 70 percent of these mice had recovered 15 weeks after appearance of diabetes. Recovery was indicated by normalization of blood glucose, serum insulin, insulin secretion and biosynthesis of isolated pancreatic islets and a reenhancement of the pancreatic insulin content from lower than 10 to 30 percent of control values. After SZ (2) both sexes became hyperglycaemic, and the recovery rate was lower, but was increased by pregnancy in female mice. By means of this model it will be possible to investigate mechanisms and promoting factors of such restoration processes in more detail. PMID- 2528470 TI - Streptozotocin diabetes in spontaneously hypertensive rats. AB - The aim of our experiments was to find out to what extent male spontaneously hypertensive (SH) as well as normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) and Wistar Schonerlinde (WS) rats developed changes of the endocrine pancreas function in response to streptozotocin (SR). 4 week old WS, WKY and SH rats were given ip. injections of 70 or 100 mg SR/kg and were killed at an age of 8 weeks, after which blood glucose, and in isolated islets, insulin-leakage, insulin secretion and insulin biosynthesis were determined; histologically the relative volume density of islet tissue was estimated. The results demonstrated that the intensity of the SR-caused damage to the endocrine pancreas differs considerably in the three strains of rats. The damage increases in the order WS, WKY, SH rats. These findings are indicative of the role played by genetic predisposition and of an increase in damage to the endocrine pancreas due to hypertension. PMID- 2528471 TI - Studies on sex dependency of B-cell susceptibility to streptozotocin in a rat model of type II diabetes mellitus. AB - Non-insulin-dependent (Type 2) diabetes in the rat can be induced by a neonatal injection of streptozotocin (STZ). At adult age male rats are more severely affected than female rats. Such difference could be due to a sex-related dissimilarity in susceptibility to STZ; this possibility was investigated in the present study. Incubation of isolated islets from male and female rats with STZ for 30 min, followed by tissue culture for 24 h, induced a dose-dependent decrease in insulin content that was similar in islets of both sexes. STZ in vivo, injected i.p on the second day of life, markedly enhanced blood glucose levels and reduced pancreatic insulin content when measured 2-12 days after the STZ injection. The parameters of B-cell damage did not differ, however, between male and female pups. Testosterone treatment, when started two days after the STZ injection, significantly accentuated hyperglycemia in both sexes during the second week of life. Body weight and pancreatic insulin content were not affected by the testosterone treatment. In conclusion, B-cell susceptibility to STZ in vitro or in vivo, during the neonatal period, is not influenced by gender. The hyperglycemic effect of testosterone indicates that the rise in androgens, starting with puberty, is at least partially responsible for a more severe diabetic state in male than in female rats at adult age. PMID- 2528472 TI - A comparison between insulin and glucagon release from orthotopically-placed islets of Langerhans and after their transplantation into the liver of diabetic rats. AB - The ability of islets of Langerhans to release insulin (IRI) and glucagon (IRG) after stimulation with glucose and arginine was analyzed by using isolated perfused pancreas of Lewis-rats and by using perfused liver three months after syngenic portal islet transplantation. Transplanted islets preserve their functional integrity so that the shape and magnitude of IRI and IRG release, respectively, can be compared with normal islet reactivity. They are able to release insulin after stimulation with 16 mM glucose having a typical biphasic secretion profile. The islet and B-cell volume, as well as the insulin and glucagon content of the recipient pancreas, are decreased significantly three months after islet transplantation when compared with healthy controls. PMID- 2528473 TI - Sampling methods for monitoring changes in gonococcal populations. AB - A total of 160 consecutive isolates of Neisseria gonorrhoeae was collected over a 3-month period. They were tested for their susceptibility to penicillin, erythromycin and spectinomycin and the auxotype and the serotype determined. We have evaluated two sampling methods, the collection of every fifth isolate and the first 20 isolates (10 male and 10 female) each month, to determine whether either is representative of the total population. There was no significant difference between either method of sampling and the total for detecting the predominant auxotypes and serovars or the distributions in antibiotic susceptibility. It is possible to monitor major changes in a gonococcal population, particularly susceptibility to antibiotics, using a sample of the total population. PMID- 2528475 TI - The human blastocyst produces a soluble factor(s) that interferes with lymphocyte proliferation. AB - Animal studies have reported that the blastocyst produces immunosuppressive factors that are critical to successful implantation. The production of such factor(s) by the human blastocyst has not yet been described. To test that hypothesis, the spent media of 67 human embryos developed in vitro was evaluated using either the allogeneic one-way mixed lymphocyte response (MLR) or the concanavalin A (Con-A) stimulated lymphocyte response (SLR). Conditioned embryo media was obtained at in vitro fertilization (IVF) in aliquots of (A) the first 24 hours in vitro, (B) the second 24 hours in vitro, and (C) from 24 hours until development of the blastocyst stage. Control media consisted of Ham's F-10 medium (Gibco, Grand Island, NY) with identical maternal serum concentration to test media. Conditioned media (either A, B, or C) or control media was added to 200 microL wells containing lymphocytes in either the MLR or SLR. A significant suppressive effect of 25% to 60% was observed in seven of nine samples of blastocyst-conditioned media (P less than 0.05). No significant suppressive effect was found in the earlier embryo media (A or B) in either the MLR or the SLR. These data suggest that the human blastocyst produces a factor(s) that interferes with lymphocyte proliferation. PMID- 2528474 TI - Site-selective 8-Cl-cAMP which causes growth inhibition and differentiation increases DNA (CRE)-binding activity in cancer cells. AB - Control mechanisms of normal differentiation are disrupted in cancer cells but can be restored by treatment with site-selective cAMP analogs. The cellular events associated with such changes entail compartmental redistribution of the cAMP-dependent protein kinase type II regulatory subunit, RII beta. The results of this study indicate that the molecular mechanisms of action involve changes in specific DNA-binding activity of putative transcription factors. Gel retardation analyses revealed that nuclear extracts from cells of various human cancer cell lines [colon cancer (LS-174T), gastric cancer (TMK-1), and leukemia (K-562)] and rodent pheochromocytoma (PC12) show a concentration-dependent increase in binding activity to a synthetic DNA that contained the cAMP-responsive element 5' TGACGTCA-3' after treatment with 8-Cl-cAMP. Such an increase in cAMP-responsive element binding activity was not observed in the 8-C1-cAMP-unresponsive MKN-1 gastric cancer cells. These findings indicate that the antitumor activity of site selective cAMP analogs may reside in the induction of transcription factors that restore normal gene regulation in cancer cells. PMID- 2528476 TI - D-Trp-6-luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone microcapsules in the treatment of uterine leiomyomas. AB - Long acting D-Trp-6-luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LH-RH) microcapsules, 3.2 mg were given monthly, intramuscularly for a period of 6 months to 26 menstruating patients with symptomatic leiomyomas. The patients ages were 22 to 52 years. Five patients (20%) were infertile. Patient evaluation before initiation of treatment included endometrial biopsy, ultrasonic measurements of uterine and tumor volumes, and bone-mineral density. The patients were periodically followed hormonally and ultrasonographically. A statistically significant reduction in uterine and tumor volumes (maximal after 4 months of treatment) was observed in all the patients except one. Two patients discontinued the treatment after 2 months, preferring surgery. A nonsignificant decrease in the mean bone-mineral density was noted after completion of therapy. Minor side effects such as hot flushes, vaginal dryness, backache, vaginal spotting, and nervousness, were encountered frequently, disappearing within 6 weeks after the last injection. A significant increase in uterine and myoma volume was noted in all the patients at 3 months after treatment. PMID- 2528477 TI - Second-look operative laparoscopy 1 year following reproductive surgery. AB - To evaluate the efficacy of a second-look operative laparoscopy following a reproductive surgery, a randomized study was conducted on women who failed to conceive 1 year following terminal salpingostomy or following salpingo ovariolysis by laparotomy. There is no significant difference in the cumulative probability of pregnancy at 12, 24, and 36 months follow-up between women who underwent second-look operative laparoscopy 1 year after salpingo-ovariolysis (27%, 67%, and 67%) and women who were continued to be observed expectantly (27%, 45%, and 52%, respectively). The cumulative probability of conception at 12, 24, and 36 months follow-up in women who underwent second-look laparoscopy 1 year after salpingostomy was 6%, 18%, and 18% and in women who were observed expectantly was 5%, 21%, and 27%, respectively (P = no significant). The incidence of ectopic pregnancy which was high (about one-half of patients who conceived) was also not affected by this procedure. This study suggests that second-look operative laparoscopy 1 year after terminal salpingostomy or salpingo ovariolysis does not increase the pregnancy rate or decrease the incidence of ectopic pregnancy. Women who fail to conceive 1 year after a reproductive surgery still maintain some of their reproductive potential, but the risk of having an ectopic pregnancy is high. PMID- 2528478 TI - The use of a gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog and transdermal estrogen to preserve fertility in a woman with severe menorrhagia. PMID- 2528479 TI - Mathematical model of CD4+ lymphocyte depletion in HIV infection. AB - The CD4+ lymphocyte depletion in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected persons seems to be affected by HIV products. As the dynamics of the concentration of HIV products is reciprocal to that of non-replicating antigen used for induction of tolerance, the mathematical model of immunological tolerance can be used to describe the dynamics of CD4+ lymphocyte depletion. To stimulate the clinically observed dynamics, it is necessary to include the limitation of HIV growth by the corresponding cytotoxic T cells and their dependence on the helper effect of CD4+ lymphocytes. Simulation analysis suggests that qualitatively similar results are obtained if immature, mature, or both categories of CD4+ lymphocytes considered in the model are depleted by the HIV products. PMID- 2528481 TI - [Secretion of atrial natriuretic peptide in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus and effect of autonomic neuropathy]. AB - In order to clarify the mode of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) release and the effect of autonomic nerve function on ANP release, we measured plasma ANP concentrations in response to hypertonic saline infusion in patients with non insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) having or not having autonomic neuropathy (AN). Studies were made on 72 normal subjects (male 44, female 28; 53.0 +/- 0.9 yr.), and 63 patients with NIDDM (male 36, female 27; 56.9 +/- 2.1 yr.). The patients with NIDDM were divided into two groups: Group A was 48 diabetics without AN, and Group B was 15 diabetics with AN. Six patients selected randomly from each group and 6 normal subjects were given an infusion of hypertonic saline (2.5% NaCl) at a rate of 0.25 ml/min/kg over 45 min. Autonomic nerve function was estimated by clinical symptoms, coefficient of variation of R R intervals (CVR-R), Valsalva test and Schellong test. Plasma ANP concentration was measured by a sensitive and specific radioimmunoassay (RIA) after extraction using SEP-PAK C18 cartridge reported previously. The mean plasma concentration of ANP was 20.7 +/- 1.8 pg/ml (mean +/- SEM) in normal subjects, 24.3 +/- 2.4 pg/ml in NIDDM patients without AN, and 26.4 +/- 3.6 pg/ml in NIDDM patients with AN. There was no significant difference in these levels among the 3 groups. The fasting plasma concentration of ANP in diabetics as well as in normal subjects increased parallel with age. In 12 diabetics, plasma concentrations of ANP significantly elevated from 27.6 +/- 2.0 pg/ml to 149.4 +/- 29.8 pg/ml at 60 min after start of hypertonic saline infusion as compared with 6 normal subjects in whom the levels increased from 15.6 +/- 2.9 pg/ml to 34.1 +/- 5.7 pg/ml at 75 min. On the other hand, the plasma ANP concentration in response to hypertonic saline infusion in NIDDM patients with AN (71.8 +/- 14.4 pg/ml, at 60 min) was lower than that in NIDDM patients without AN (224.2 +/- 38.2 pg/ml, at 60 min). Area under the curve (AUC) of plasma ANP of NIDDM patients with AN after hypertonic saline infusion was 6560 +/- 879.6 pg.min/ml (normal subjects, 2575.6 +/- 444.6 pg.min/ml), which was significantly lower than that of NIDDM patients without AN (13757.8 +/- 1148.4 pg.min/ml). Moreover, there was a positive correlation between AUC and CVR-R in patients with NIDDM. These results indicate that the response of plasma ANP to hypertonic saline infusion in NIDDM patients is significantly higher than in normal subjects.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2528480 TI - Induction of indomethacin-sensitive suppressor cells by xenogeneic blood transfusion in mice. AB - The suppressive effect of xenogeneic blood transfusion on T-cell reactivity, observed in both in vivo and in vitro studies, is connected with the development of indomethacin-sensitive suppressor cells. PMID- 2528482 TI - Possible interaction of histamine and serotonin in the Arthus reaction induced in guinea pig skin. PMID- 2528483 TI - Enhanced rabbit skin plasmin activity by UV irradiation. PMID- 2528484 TI - Characterization of receptors to the anaphylatoxins on isolated cells. AB - The anaphylatoxins exhibit three primary functions in vivo, i.e. they induce granulocyte sequestration and adherence, promote spasmogenesis or smooth muscle contraction and exert immunoregulatory influences. C5a receptors have been demonstrated on human neutrophils, human monocytes, rodent macrophages from both the lungs and peritoneal cavity, two mouse macrophage cell lines (RAW 264 and J774.A1) and guinea pig platelets. To date, only guinea pig platelet has been shown to possess C3a receptors. In depth studies with the rat mast cell have demonstrated that both direct and indirect activation mechanisms may be operative in the mast cell; however, neither mechanism appears to depend on receptor mediated stimulation of these cells. PMID- 2528485 TI - Effect of dietary triiodothyronine on mixed-lymphocyte responsiveness in young male chickens. AB - The effect of dietary triiodothyronine (T3) supplementation (0, 0.1, 0.1, and 1.0 ppm of T3) on the mixed lymphocyte response (MLR) was examined in MHC-matched young Cornell K and sex-linked dwarf (SLD) strain cockerels at ages 6, 9, and 12 weeks. At all ages, MLR in SLD strain cockerels was significantly lower than in the K strain. Supplementation of 6-week-old cockerels with 0.01 and 0.1 ppm of T3 tended to decrease MLR in both strains, whereas the highest dose of T3 had the opposite effect in the K strain and no effect in the SLD strain compared to the control. No significant effects of T3 on MLR were observed in 9-week-old cockerels. A significant main treatment effect of T3 on MLR was observed in 12 week-old cockerels. At this age dietary T3 decreased MLR in both strains. These results show that allo-aggression, a functional parameter of cell-mediated immunity, can be affected by non-MHC controlled strain differences and by the iodothyronine state of these strains. PMID- 2528486 TI - Ontogeny of alloreactivity in the chicken as measured by mixed lymphocyte reaction. AB - Ontogeny of alloreactivity in the chicken thymus and spleen was studied in mixed lymphocyte cultures. Mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) to total major histocompatibility complex (MHC) (B-complex in chicken) disparity was first detected in the thymus of 16-day-old embryo and regularly detectable from the 18th embryonal day on. Small strain-specific differences in the strength and appearance of the response were, however, observed. MLR to class I MHC (B-F) antigen disparity was not detectable before hatching. Exogenous interleukin-2 containing supernatant added to the cultures had only a minor effect on MLR of embryonal thymocytes. In the spleen, MLR was first detectable in some strain combinations on day 3 and regularly found on the 7th day posthatching, indicating colonization of peripheral lymphoid organs by thymus-derived mature T cells. Our results show the association of phenotypic and functional maturation of chicken T cells. The ontogeny of alloreactivity can now be compared to the appearance of T cell receptor (TCR), CD4, and CD8-bearing cells in the thymus and peripheral lymphoid organs. PMID- 2528487 TI - The suppressor factor NBxFO is not species-specific. AB - The NBxFO factor was obtained from the supernatant liquids of neonatal spleen: myeloma fusions. Previously it had been shown that this factor could inhibit the proliferative response of alloreactive T cell lines. In this study the factor was found to inhibit the MLR of the parent species (mouse) as well as the MLRs of humans and rats. Thus, the NBxFO factor has activity that is not species specific. Furthermore, the factor was found to inhibit the lectin-induced mitogenesis of these 3 species. Gel chromatography revealed that the moleclar weight of the molecule responsible for suppressing human lymphocyte mitogenesis is the same as previously determined for suppression of mouse proliferative responses. PMID- 2528488 TI - Some observations on the effect of a GnRH analog in ovarian cancer. AB - Observations in healthy women led us to suppose that the increase of the tumor marker CA 125 observed during progression of ovarian cancer could be dependent on pituitary gonadotropins. Therefore we administered the GnRH-analog, DTrp 6-LH-RH, to 19 patients with progressive ovarian cancer and increasing CA 125 serum levels. When compared to 11 untreated patients, CA 125 levels increased at a considerably slower rate in 9 of 11 patients who were treated with the substance for more than 3 months. This was associated with stable disease, ranging from 4 to 20 months so far. The further analysis of 2 patients who developed an increase in CA 125 serum levels and a progression of disease during treatment demonstrated that FSH and LH levels had escaped suppression. The results support our assumption, that gonadotropins may be involved in the mechanisms leading to increasing CA 125 concentrations in ovarian cancer. The reduced increase of CA 125 and the observed stabilisation of disease during pituitary blockade offers a rationale for GnRH analogues in the therapeutic approach to this disease. PMID- 2528489 TI - Endocrine effects of laparoscopic ovarian electrocautery in patients with polycystic ovarian disease, resistant to clomiphene citrate. AB - Endocrine responses to laparoscopic ovarian electrocautery were studied in 14 patients with polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD), resistant to clomiphene citrate. Patients who did not conceive within 6 months of treatment were evaluated for up to that period. Testosterone and androstenedione levels decreased after electrocautery in a way which is comparable with the reduction in androgens after wedge resection of the ovary. Androstenedione levels tended to return to pretreatment values at 6 months; four of the five pregnancies were achieved within this period. The reduction in androgens may break the vicious circle of PCOD, and lead to normal menstrual cycles. PMID- 2528490 TI - Activities of glycolytic enzymes in rapidly proliferating and differentiated C6 glioma cells. AB - Comparisons of glycolytic enzymes between rapidly proliferating and Bt2 cAMP induced differentiated C6 glioma cells have been made. Rapidly proliferating cells had higher concentrations of glucose-6-phosphate, fructose-6-phosphate and fructose-1,6-bisphosphate compared to morphologically differentiated cells. Under maximally activating conditions, the specific activity and Vmax of hexokinase and phosphofructokinase enzymes were reduced by approximately 3- and 28-fold, respectively, in differentiated cells, without any change in Km values. These results suggest that hexokinase and phosphofructokinase occupy special control positions and the rate of glycolysis is correlated with cellular proliferation of C6 glioma cells. PMID- 2528491 TI - Long-term gliclazide treatment improves the in vitro glucose-induced insulin release in rats with type 2 (non-insulin-dependent) diabetes induced by neonatal streptozotocin. AB - Neonatal rats treated with streptozotocin on the day of birth (n0-STZ) or on day 5 (n5-STZ) exhibited when fully grown a very mild or frank basal hyperglycaemia respectively and a specific failure of insulin release in response to glucose. To determine whether short (1 day) or long-term (30 days) gliclazide treatment modifies the pancreatic insulin content and the B-cell response to secretagogues, diabetic rats were given oral gliclazide (10 mg/kg per day) and compared to control diabetic and non-diabetic rats. Insulin secretion in the isolated perfused pancreas was studied the day after the last gliclazide administration. In severely hyperglycaemic n5-STZ rats (plasma glucose levels greater than 16 mmol/l) long-term gliclazide treatment did not lower the plasma glucose values, did not affect the pancreatic insulin stores, nor did it significantly modify the insulin release in vitro in response to glucose or arginine. In moderately hyperglycaemic n5-STZ rats (plasma glucose levels less than 16 mmol/l) the plasma glucose levels declined progressively reaching 8 mmol/l as a mean at the end of the gliclazide therapy. In the n5-STZ rats responsive to gliclazide the pancreatic insulin stores were increased twofold as compared to values in untreated n5-STZ rats, however, this difference did not reached significance and the pancreatic insulin stores in the responsive gliclazide treated rats remained depleted by 76% compared to normal insulin stores. In the n0-STZ rats (very mild hyperglycaemia) the long-term gliclazide treatment did not significantly modify the plasma glucose levels or the pancreatic insulin stores.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528493 TI - Preferential support of Ca2+ uptake in smooth muscle plasma membrane vesicles by an endogenous glycolytic cascade. AB - Studies of intact smooth muscle have suggested that its anomalous aerobic lactate production may reflect an intracellular compartmentation of glycolytic enzyme cascades designed to support specific exergonic processes. In particular, we have postulated a membrane-associated glycolytic cascade that preferentially supports the ATP requirements of membrane functions. We tested this hypothesis by using a smooth muscle plasma membrane fraction (PMV) purified for calcium pump activity. We show that glycolytic enzymes are endogenous in PMV and can produce NADH, ATP, and lactate from fructose 1,6-diphosphate in the presence of glycolytic cofactors. This glycolytic cascade can fuel the calcium pump despite the presence of an ATP trap that eliminated calcium uptake fueled by exogenously added ATP. This plasma membrane glycolytic cascade is coupled to calcium pump function in a tissue with both oxidative and glycolytic metabolism. Thus coupling of metabolic cascades with the specific processes they subserve may be a more general feature of cellular organization than was previously thought. PMID- 2528492 TI - Effect of 8 hours of hyperinsulinaemia on haemostatic parameters in healthy man. AB - The role of variations in plasma insulin concentrations as a factor possibly involved in abnormalities of haemostatic functions, and (or) the development of arterial disease, has been the subject of controversy. This study examines the "in vivo" effect of hyperinsulinaemia on haemostatic parameters in seven healthy men. Two studies were carried out in random order: (a) Hyperinsulinaemia study. Human insulin was infused by a calibrated infusion pump (0.7 mU kg-1 min-1, for 8 h) during a euglycaemic glucose clamp, and (b) Control study 0.15 mmol/l NaCl solution was infused over 8 h. Plasma epinephrine and norepinephrine concentrations remained constant throughout the studies. Mean insulin levels during the hyperinsulinaemia study were 46.2 +/- 1.6 microU/ml, i.e. approximately eightfold higher than those at baseline, whereas plasma glucose levels remained constant at 4.9 +/- 0.1 mmol/l. During the control study, mean insulinaemia was 5.0 +/- 0.9 microU/ml, and plasma glucose 5.2 +/- 0.1 mmol/l. No statistically significant changes were observed during, or after insulin or 0.15 mmol/l NaCl infusions with regard to platelet parameters, blood coagulation, and coagulation inhibitors. These data suggest that abnormalities of the haemostatic function described during insulin-induced hypoglycaemia or in hyperinsulinaemic patients are not due to a direct action of insulin. PMID- 2528494 TI - Plasma atrial natriuretic peptide in conscious rats with reduced renal mass. AB - The effect of salt intake and reduction of renal mass (RRM) on plasma immunoreactive atrial natriuretic peptide (iANP) levels in conscious rats was studied. Rats were divided into RRM and sham-operated groups, and then further subdivided into groups infused with 1 or 6 mEq of sodium per day. Plasma urea nitrogen increased in the groups with RRM. Plasma sodium, sodium balance, and heart rate did not differ between the sham and RRM groups. Rats with RRM maintained on 1 mEq of sodium per day did not have an elevation of water intake, arterial pressure, or plasma iANP. Rats with RRM maintained on 6 mEq of sodium per day had significantly (P less than 0.05) elevated water intake, arterial pressure, and plasma iANP. Arterial pressure and plasma iANP were correlated (r = 0.800) for rats with RRM on either 1 or 6 mEq of sodium per day. Increased plasma iANP in the RRM group on 6 mEq per day was not caused by either RRM or high sodium alone; it was an effect of RRM plus high salt intake. The increase in plasma iANP in the RRM group may be caused by the increase in arterial pressure, possibly due to an increase in extracellular fluid volume. ANP may not be responsible for the sustained increase in fractional sodium excretion observed in RRM. PMID- 2528495 TI - [Observations on the course of advanced ovarian cancers following medicamentous reduction of hypophyseal gonadotropins]. AB - Previous observations in healthy women showed, that the increase of CA-125 observed during progression of ovarian cancer could be dependent on pituitary gonadotropins. Therefore, the GnRH-analog D-Trp 6-LH-RH was administered to 17 patients with progressive ovarian cancer and increasing CA-125 serum levels. 12 of 17 patients who had been treated for more than three months exhibited a considerably slower increase of CA-125 which was associated with a remarkable stabilisation of disease. The other patients, who suffered from progressive disease, an increase of the gonadotropins could be detected during the analog treatment. These observations strengthen the suspicion of the critical role of gonadotropins in the production of CA-125 and the progression of ovarian cancer. PMID- 2528496 TI - The phosphofructokinase genes of yeast evolved from two duplication events. AB - Yeast phosphofructokinase (PFK) is an octameric enzyme composed of four alpha subunits and four beta-subunits, encoded by the genes PFK1 and PFK2, respectively. PFK1 was mapped 23 cM distal to ADE3 on chromosome VII, and PFK2 30 cM proximal to RNA1 on chromosome XIII. The entire nucleotide sequences for the two genes were obtained by sequencing both DNA strands. Only one major open reading frame was found for each gene. They encode 987 aa for PFK1 (Mr 107,984) and 959 aa for PFK2 (Mr 104,589). Both genes show a biased codon usage. The deduced amino acid sequences showed: (i) 20% homology between the N- and the C terminal halves of each subunit, (ii) 55% homology between the two subunits, and (iii) significant homologies to the PFK sequences from human and rabbit muscle (42%), Escherichia coli (34%), and Bacillus (36%). These data support the view that two gene duplication events occurred in the evolution of the yeast PFK genes. The first duplication event took place soon after the separation of prokaryotic and eukaryotic lineage and the second in Saccharomyces later in the phylogeny. Functional domains in the yeast subunits were deduced by comparison to the rabbit muscle enzyme. PMID- 2528498 TI - Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate in postmenopausal women: lack of influence of parity. AB - Serum concentrations of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHAS) were analyzed in 251 healthy, medicine-free postmenopausal women 46-65 years of age. Twentyfour of the women were nulliparous and 227 parous (1- to 7-parous). There was no association, whatsoever, between parity and DHAS levels. The data are at variance with previous findings in menstruating women of higher DHAS levels in nulliparous than in parous women. This difference between menstruating and postmenopausal women may reflect an influence of age per se on DHAS metabolism. It may also reflect the exclusion in this study of women with i.e. endometrial hyperplasia/cancer, diseases often associated with elevated DHAS levels and increased risk for nulliparous women. PMID- 2528497 TI - Suppression with gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogues prior to stimulation with gonadotropins: comparison of three protocols. AB - This study compared three groups of patients treated with three different protocols of suppression of the pituitary-ovarian axis prior to and during gonadotropin stimulation for in vitro fertilization with a nonsuppressed control group. Patients treated with daily injections of DTRp6 (Decapeptyl 0.5 mg) or with a single injection of Decapeptyl depot (3.2 mg CR) had a longer folicular phase than patients treated with Buserelin (1.2-1.5 mg daily) and the patients in the control group. The number of human menopausal gonadotropin ampules required to reach adequate stimulation was also significantly higher in the former two groups of patients. The number of oocytes recovered (6-7 per patient), fertilized (45-58%) and cleaved (92-100%) did not differ among the groups. Peak estradiol levels and the pregnancy rate were highest in the group treated with Buserelin. The overall picture would indicate that suppression with Buserelin was the least profound. PMID- 2528499 TI - No effect of long-term DHEA treatment on either hepatocyte and adipocyte pentose pathway activity or adipocyte glycerol release. AB - The effects of long-term dehydroepiandrosterone treatment on the pentose shunt in adipocytes and hepatocytes from female lean Zucker rats were determined. No significant effects could be attributed to this treatment. There was also no effect on basal or epinephrine-stimulated glycerol release from adipocytes. PMID- 2528500 TI - Increase of beta-endorphin serum levels by human corticotropin-releasing factor does not affect beta-cell function in normal-weight men. AB - Numerous studies have shown a rise of blood sugar concentrations and serum levels of pancreatic polypeptides after pharmacological doses of beta-endorphin. We tested the yet unknown influence of physiological fluctuations in beta-endorphin serum levels on glucose homeostasis by stimulating the pituitary secretion with CRF. 100 micrograms of human CRF or saline solution were intravenously injected in ten healthy male subjects at least one week apart. beta-endorphin serum levels rose significantly after the injection of CRF, but there was no change in blood sugar concentrations or serum levels of glucagon or insulin at all. We conclude that only a pharmacological dose of beta-endorphin influences glucose homeostasis. PMID- 2528501 TI - Recent developments in pathology residency training programs. PMID- 2528502 TI - Our experience with percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty--two years follow-up study. AB - The results of 130 consecutive percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) procedures carried out in 112 patients between November, 1986 and October, 1988 are reported. The follow-up period ranged from 1 month to 24 months. Eighty four patients (75%) had single vessel disease, and 28 (25%) had multivessel disease. Two-vessel dilatation was done in 23 patients. The primary success rate was 92%. In successful cases, the diameter of stenosis was changed on an average from an initial 85% to 23%. Acute occlusion of the vessel occurred on 9 occasions (6.8%). Emergency coronary bypass surgery (CABG) was done in 3 (2.7%), 2 patients (1.8%) were subjected to immediate re-dilatation. One patient who underwent CABG died (case fatality 0.8%). Occlusion of the dilated vessels did not occur after the patients were discharged from hospital. Follow-up data revealed that long term clinical success (class I status) was seen in 78 patients who had a successful primary dilatation. Of the 25 patients who were studied by a repeat coronary arteriography, 7 had developed restenosis. Five of these patients have been successfully redilated. It is concluded that PTCA is an effective and safe method of treatment in selected patients with coronary artery disease in our setting. PMID- 2528503 TI - Significance of left ventricular shape, its blood supply and calcium turnover for evolving myocardial hypertrophy. AB - To explore relationship between hypertrophy of left ventricle and its shape, blood supply and calcium turnover, the study enrolled 105 male patients with ischemic heart disease or those suspected of its presence. All patients underwent contrast coronary ventriculography, M-mode echocardiography and sectorial scanning. Moderately limited myocardial blood supply was found to be a factor, stimulating its local hypertrophy. In the event of severely impaired blood supply, no substantial myocardial hypertrophy is detectable in corresponding regions, while dynamic observation not infrequently reveals thinning of the wall. Patients with intact coronary arteries, and having more elongated shape of left ventricular cavity, demonstrate larger thickness of walls along the long axis, that is probably due to dependence of intramyocardial tension on the radius of the wall curvature. While performing ventriculography in the patients with hypertrophic myocardium, disclosed elevated level of calcium in the blood and enhanced calcium uptake by cardiac muscle versus patients without left ventricular hypertrophy. PMID- 2528504 TI - Local T-T cell and T-B cell interactions: a cellular automaton approach. AB - In this paper we use cellular automata to study growth factor (IL-2) dependent proliferation of helper T cell (Th) and B cell clones at the level of individual cells. We argue that such a spatially- and individual-oriented approach can provide important insights, not obtainable by more conventional modelling approaches in which the immune system is modelled as a well mixed collection of clones. Two questions are examined: (1) under which conditions can a cell which produces its own growth factor (i.e. Th cells) be regulated by it; and (2) if a growth factor is effective only locally, and if both Th and B cells depend on growth factors excreted by Th cells, how can the spatial segregation of T cells and B cells in lymphoid organs and/or at acute infection sites be explained? The results show that, firstly, autocrine regulation can indeed occur in two ways: it can ensure (a) that the cell reacts only on its growth factor when packed inside tissue of arbitrary cells or (b), that the cell reacts only when close to other growth factor producing cells; and secondly, segregation of T cells and B cells results automatically from simple assumptions about the interaction and proliferation of the cells, notwithstanding the fact that proliferation is slowed down by this segregation. PMID- 2528505 TI - Human interleukin-1 alpha is chemotactic for normal human keratinocytes. AB - Interleukin-1 (IL-1) has been shown to have mitogenic and chemotactic properties for a variety of cell types includes keratinocytes. These studies suggested that keratinocytes possess receptors for IL-1. In this study, the chemotactic properties of IL-1 for keratinocytes were confirmed and IL-1 receptors were demonstrated on keratinocytes using a radio receptor assay. Crosslinking studies with IL-1 alpha identified two major bands of Mr 97 kDa and 133 kDa. Thus, keratinocytes possess high affinity IL-1 receptors and respond to IL-1 by directed migration. PMID- 2528506 TI - Elimination of self-tolerogen turns nonresponder mice into responders. AB - Two sets of genes control the immune response of H-2d mice to the synthetic antigen poly(Glu50Tyr50) (GT). One set involves class II major histocompatibility complex (Mhc) loci encoding an Ad product that serves as a recognition context to GT-reactive helper T cells (Th). The other one is a background gene, the product of which, in association with the same Mhc-restricting element, mimics the GT/Ad complex. Mice expressing the GT-mimicking background-encoded structure (Imgt), which is preferentially displayed on B lymphoblasts, do not respond to GT as a consequence of self-tolerance. On the other hand, elimination of cells bearing Imgt renders these mice responsive to GT, demonstrating that tolerance to self can impoverish the immune system. Imgt is probably not identical to GT, but resembles it in the way it forms complexes with Ad molecules of Mhc. PMID- 2528508 TI - Plasmodium falciparum schizont sonic extracts suppress lymphoproliferative responses to mitogens and antigens in malaria-immune adults. AB - Cellular immune responses to malaria antigens are suppressed during acute Plasmodium falciparum infection, and evidence from both murine and human studies suggests that parasite-derived factors may be directly immunosuppressive. In this study we have shown that P. falciparum schizont sonic extract will suppress in vitro lymphoproliferative responses to purified malaria antigens and other soluble antigens. The degree of suppression appears to correlate with the level of the lymphoproliferative response to the schizont preparation and is correspondingly more marked in malaria-immune donors than in nonimmune individuals. The effect can be transferred with primed mononuclear cells and is partially abrogated by removal of CD8+ lymphocytes. The suppressive component of the schizont preparation is nondialyzable and partially heat labile and comigrates with hemoglobin-derived proteins in the molecular mass range 10 to 20 kilodaltons. PMID- 2528507 TI - Comparison of T-cell responses in self-limiting versus progressive visceral Leishmania donovani infections in golden hamsters. AB - Leishmania donovani infection in golden hamsters was studied as a model for human kala-azar. After intradermal inoculation of L. donovani amastigotes, hamsters developed positive skin reactions (delayed-type hypersensitivity [DTH]) to parasite antigens and lymphoid cells from these hamsters proliferated to parasite antigens in vitro and transferred DTH reactivity to normal recipients. In contrast, hamsters infected by the intracardial route developed progressive visceral infections and failed to respond to skin test antigens. Spleen cells, lymph node cells, and peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) from these hamsters were unresponsive to parasite antigens in vitro, and spleen cells failed to transfer DTH to normal recipients. Spleen cells, but not PBLs, displayed depressed responses to T-cell mitogens and also suppressed the proliferative response of cells from hamsters inoculated intradermally. Removal of adherent cells restored the capacity of spleen cells, but not PBLs, to respond to parasite antigens. The nonadherent population of these spleen cells also transferred DTH to normal recipients. The adherent suppressor cells, which have the characteristics of macrophages, appear to be localized to the spleen and are apparently not responsible for the failure of peripheral lymphoid cells to respond to antigen. These studies suggest that hamsters with visceral infections develop a population of antigen-reactive cells and that in the absence of suppression these cells may express functional activities, including the capacity to elicit DTH responses. PMID- 2528509 TI - The influence of the atrial natriuretic factor on venous tone in man. AB - To assess the effect of the human atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) in vivo on human veins, a series of investigations was done on the dorsal hand vein of 11 healthy volunteers (ten men, one woman), aged from 25 to 49 years. In the case of intact veins the human ANF effect was evaluated by the "venoconstriction" test; on veins constricted by a reflex sympathetic discharge, the ANF effect was evaluated by the test of "venous reflexes", and on veins constricted with serotonin and angiotensin II by the "preconstriction" test. The results were expressed in venoconstrictive units (VCU). ANF was injected into the vein under study in increasing bolus doses (from 50 pg to 500 ng). The results indicate that this peptide did not affect either intact veins or these constricted by sympathetic discharge. On veins preconstricted with serotonin, ANF had a slight, statistically insignificant effect (848.57 +/- 378.67 VCU 30 sec before, compared to 670.00 +/- 460.25 VCU 30 sec after the injection of 50 pg; n = 7; p greater than 0.05), up to a maximal local dose of 500 ng. The same was true for the vein preconstricted with angiotensin II. It is concluded that the human atrial natriuretic factor has no significant influence on peripheral venous tone in man. PMID- 2528510 TI - Pharmacokinetics of teicoplanin during cardiopulmonary bypass surgery. AB - Teicoplanin is a recently introduced long-acting glycopeptide antibiotic effective against Gram-positive aerobic and anaerobic bacteria. The effects of hypothermic extracorporeal circulation on teicoplanin serum pharmacokinetics have been studied in 18 patients undergoing open-heart surgery for coronary artery bypass graft or prosthetic cardiac valve insertion. The patients received a single 600 mg dose of teicoplanin by intravenous (i.v.) bolus (five cases) or by i.v. infusion over 20 min (13 cases) approximately 1 h before the anticipated skin incision and 2 h before the anticipated extracorporeal circulation. Serum drug concentrations were measured by a microbiological method using Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633 as the test organism. Following i.v. bolus injection and i.v. infusion, teicoplanin levels in serum (mean +/- s.d.) were respectively 13.9 +/- 6.8 and 11.4 +/- 2.4 mg/l at the beginning of extracorporeal circulation, 8.8 +/- 3.5 and 10.2 +/- 2.3 mg/l at the end of this procedure and 2.8 +/- 0.6 and 2.9 +/ 1.0 mg/l at 24 h after surgery. Mean AUCs were 378.1 +/- 52.5 and 328.9 +/- 88.0/l.h and mean elimination half-life values were 27.9 +/- 12.7 and 30.3 +/- 11.0 h, respectively under the same conditions. These differences in plasma pharmacokinetic parameters were not significant. Teicoplanin pharmacokinetics in patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass surgery were similar to those observed in non-surgical patients with normal renal and hepatic function, confirming experimental evidence for lack of effects of extracorporeal circulation. PMID- 2528511 TI - Decrease in disease activity and concomitant increase in the percentage of peripheral blood suppressor T-cells in rheumatoid arthritis by a newly synthesized slow-acting anti-rheumatic drug (Bucillamine). AB - Bucillamine: N-(2-mercapto-2-methyl-propanoyl)-L-cysteine, is a newly synthesized slow-acting anti-rheumatic drug with two SH-bonds in its chemical structure. Eleven patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) were treated with Bucillamine, and both Lansbury's activity index and the percentage of suppressor T-cells (Leu 2a+ Leu 15+) were serially monitored for 10 weeks. The percentage of suppressor T cells, which was depressed in the active disease state, reached normal levels with clinical improvement according to Lansbury's index. Bucillamine may have an immunomodulating activity and may be a useful drug for the treatment of RA. PMID- 2528512 TI - T lymphocyte subsets in leprosy. A study of 24 Egyptian patients. AB - Phenotypic analysis was done on 24 Egyptian leprosy patients and 11 healthy controls. The type of leprosy, duration of disease at the time of testing, and age were found to affect T cell subset distribution. As compared with controls, neural leprosy tended to have a decreased total T cell percentage, borderline leprosy an increased T suppressor cell percentage, and reactional borderline leprosy an increased T helper/suppressor ratio. Patients with the disease for less than 1 year had a higher mean percentage of T suppressor cells and a lower mean T helper/suppressor ratio than patients with leprosy for more than 1 year. The same was true in older (50-70 years old) versus younger (12-41 years old) patients. PMID- 2528513 TI - The hallway consultation. PMID- 2528514 TI - Senter/KID syndrome. PMID- 2528515 TI - Cystic and comedonal acne: a side effect of etretinate therapy. PMID- 2528516 TI - Influence of dietary phosphorus restriction on calcium and phosphorus metabolism in rats. AB - The effect of dietary phosphorus (P) on calcium (Ca) and phosphorus metabolism was studied in young female rats. P levels in the semipurified diets ranged from 0.1 to 0.4% (w/w). A level of 0.4% P in the diet is recommended for rats. Kidney calcification was observed in rats fed the 0.4%-P diet whereas P restriction prevented this condition. Rats fed the diet containing 0.1% P, showed severe hypercalciuria, hypercalcemia, reduced growth and impaired bone mineralization. These effects did not occur when the diet contained 0.2 or 0.3% of P. This study suggests that in short-term studies P in the diet of female rats can be restricted to 0.2% so as to prevent nephrocalcinosis without affecting their development. PMID- 2528518 TI - Expanding role of coronary angioplasty: current implications, limitations, and nursing considerations. AB - In the mid-1960s, Dotter and Judkins first suggested that insertion of a rigid dilator into an occluded artery might reestablish blood flow. However, their envisioned extension of transluminal recanalization techniques to smaller artery stenoses, including those of the coronary arteries, which had previously required vascular surgery for correction, was not realized until many years later. In the late 1970s, Gruentzig overcame initial technical hurdles and performed the first coronary balloon angioplasty. Since then, percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty has been progressively refined and now constitutes a major medical intervention in the treatment of coronary disease. This article is a review of the current indications and limitations of complex angioplasty. PMID- 2528517 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide: a new cardiac hormone. AB - For centuries the heart's mechanical function has been described, and its role defined, as that of a pump to maintain blood pressure for tissue perfusion. In the past decade the heart has also been identified as an endocrine organ in that it secretes a hormone variously referred to as atrial polypeptide, atriopeptin, auriculin, cardionatrin, or atrial natriuretic peptide. This hormone interacts with other organ systems in multiple and complex ways. Studies are in progress to elucidate further its physiologic importance, mechanism of action, and pathophysiologic significance in the development of certain cardiovascular and renal diseases, as well as other conditions with sodium and water imbalance. Also of great importance is its potential pharmacologic application in the treatment of these same diseases. PMID- 2528519 TI - Relationship between arterial and venous activated partial thromboplastin time values in patients after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. AB - This quasi-experimental study was conducted to determine whether reliable activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) values could be obtained from samples taken from indwelling arterial catheter lines. The 30 subjects, who were receiving heparin infusions after a percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA), had femoral intraarterial lines. With use of a counterbalanced design, APTT values determined in two serial samples of venous and arterial blood were compared for the 30 subjects. The venous blood samples were drawn at the same time as the comparable arterial blood samples. The arterial blood samples were withdrawn after discarding arterial blood equal to four or six times the indwelling catheter volume. A significance level of 0.01 was established to increase statistical control. A histogram was developed from the differences between the arterial and venous blood samples for each of the two groups (four times and six times the discard volume). The histogram indicated that three of the 30 subjects had arterial-venous APTT differences that exceeded 19 seconds when four times the discard volume was used. In the samples where six times the discard volume were used, only one person had an APTT reading greater than 8 seconds. Paired t tests revealed statistically significant differences between the arterial and venous APTT values (t = 2.95, df = 29, p less than 0.01) for discards of four times the catheter dead space volume, whereas no statistically significant difference was found between the arterial and venous APTT values (t = 2.62, df = 28, p greater than 0.01) for discards of six times the dead space volume.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528520 TI - [Initial results with transversalis-plasty in the treatment of inguinal hernia]. AB - Because of our recurrence rate of 7.2% after primary operation for inguinal hernia and 10% after operation for recurrent hernia using a modified Bassini procedure, we adopted a transversalis fascia repair under local anesthesia in November 1985. From November 1985 to December 1987 we performed 455 operations on 424 adults. During the introduction phase of this new technique there were especially initially 65 other procedures (modified Bassini or Cooper's ligament operation). 301 patients could be followed by letter 6 months after the operation. Only patients with pain or suspected recurrence were interviewed. We analyzed the group of patients who underwent a transversalis fascia repair (n = 390). 99% were satisfied with the local anesthesia. The average length of stay in the hospital after repair of a primary inguinal hernia could be shortened (2.8 days). The patients returned to work after an average rehabilitation of 3.1 weeks. We have had few early complications (0.7%). It is still impossible to say if this technique is sure in our hands because of the short and incomplete follow up. Only the long-term results will show the real value of this operative procedure. PMID- 2528521 TI - [Recidive inguinal hernia with subcutaneous displaced spermatic cord. Operative procedure and results]. AB - Following Bassini-Kirschner repair the rate of recidives is higher than after currently applied procedures. From the first of January 1971 to the first of November 1986 54 male patients were operated upon a recidive of inguinal hernia with the spermatic cord situated in the subcuticular tissue. 3 of them had a repair of both sides. 42 operations have been done for the first, 13 for the second an 2 for the third recidive. Beginning on the 10. 9. 1974 hernial repair was progressively accomplished by reconstructing a short oblique channel. In appropriate cases with a lateral recidive and a well healed plasty in the medial area this region remained untouched. This type of repair has been done in 12 cases. 38 patients (40 cases) were controlled personally 13 to 166 months postoperatively (mean 77.7 months), 8 of them with a short oblique channel. 12 patients were dead, 2 had returned to foreign countries. 2 patients refused control. There were 3/40 recidives: 2 recidives occurred out of 6 cases with Bassini-Kirschner procedure again, 1 recidive out of 22 cases with a Bassini repair. 2 patients with simple closure of a medially situated leakage and one patient each with McVay repair or semicastration were doing well, as well as the 8 patients with a short oblique channel.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528522 TI - [Surgically relevant complications in percutaneous transluminal angioplasty]. AB - Seven significant surgical complications in 118 patients after PTA-treatment of the lower extremities are presented. In two cases the puncture site in the vessel had to be sutured, in three patients we had to perform a femoro-popliteal bypass, once a TEA with profundaplasty and in another case an embolectomy of the trifurcation. Our experience reveals that with the indication for PTA, the rate of significant complications and their surgical consequences has to be considered too. A close cooperation between Radiologist, Angiologist and Surgeon is of importance. PMID- 2528523 TI - [Rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament at a peripheral hospital. Apropos of 70 cases]. AB - Three years after surgery on average seventy patients with surgically "treated" or "repaired" lesions of the anterior cruciate ligament were evaluated. According to the operative technique, the patients were divided into 4 groups: Group I: suture of ligament only, Group II: Eriksson-Trillat plasty, Group III: McIntosh plasty, Group IV: Dacron plasty. The results were assessed according to the Marschall-score. Good results were obtained in the first group. The results with the fourth group were at the time of the examination "good" too, however, one third of them had to be reoperated in the following six months. For fresh ruptures of the ACL we advocate the primary suture of the ligament with, if necessary, an augmentation. PMID- 2528524 TI - Effect of maternal age distribution and prenatal diagnosis on the population rates of Down syndrome--a comparative study of nineteen populations. AB - We analyzed published data from 1980-85 on maternal age specific rates of Down syndrome in nineteen malformation monitoring systems. In the comparisons, we used maternal age specific Down syndrome baseline rates collected in Sweden using multiple sources and from a period before intense prenatal diagnosis. We supposed that no real maternal age specific risk difference exists between different populations, and that ascertainment of cases is independent of maternal age. With these suppositions, most programs had an ascertainment level of 70-90%, and some had about the same but none had a higher ascertainment level than that in the Swedish baseline. Marked differences in maternal age distribution in the populations studied resulted in a 12.3% standard deviation of the average population Down syndrome rate. The highest theoretical rate (estimated from actual maternal age distribution and Swedish baselines) was found in Spain (20% above average), the lowest in Czechoslovakia (24% below average). The estimated average effect of prenatal diagnosis was a decrease of only 6%, but in Denmark it was 25% and in Sweden and France:Paris 13%. PMID- 2528525 TI - Loss of tolerance associated with disappearance of B cells in a patient sequentially transplanted with paternal and maternal bone marrow for the treatment of severe combined immunodeficiency disease. AB - We have studied the tolerance of engrafted T cells from a severe combined immunodeficiency disease patient sequentially transplanted with T-cell-depleted bone marrow from both HLA haploidentical parents. The T cells from this patient were shown by HLA typing and cytogenetic analysis to be of material origin (donor of the second graft) while HLA typing of peripheral E--populations and of an Epstein-Barr virus-transformed B-cell line established 2 1/2 years after transplantation revealed the presence of host, maternal, and paternal (donor of the first graft) HLA antigens. When tested at 30 and 60 months after the last transplant, engrafted T cells from this patient had only weak mixed lymphocyte culture reactivity to paternal cells which could be inhibited by monoclonal antibodies to HLA-DQ and DR but not by anti-DP. T cells obtained 60 months after transplant were stimulated with paternal cells in both bulk and limiting dilution cultures and failed to generate typical allocytotoxic cells to paternal T- or B cell targets. Mixed lymphocyte cultures performed at 71 months revealed an increased proliferative response by patient cells to paternal antigens; however, the engrafted T cells remained tolerant to maternal and host antigens. Limiting dilution analysis performed at this time revealed the presence of cytolytic cells directed to paternal antigens. There were no detectable B cells (only identified source of paternal antigen) as measured by immunofluorescent analysis of peripheral blood, nor any evidence of B-cell function as assessed by in vitro assays (proliferation to staphylococcus aureus Cowen strain A and mitogen stimulated immunoglobulin production) or in vivo production of serum immunoglobulin at 60 and 71 months. The appearance of alloreactivity associated with the loss of B cells in this patient further supports the conclusion that the maintenance of tolerance to major histocompatibility complex disparate cells requires the continued in vivo presence of cells bearing the tolerizing antigens. PMID- 2528526 TI - The influence of bone marrow depletion on intestinal radiation damage. AB - These experiments were designed to test the hypothesis that bone marrow damage contributes to lethality when the endpoint used is LD50 for gastrointestinal damage. Specific pathogen-free mice were irradiated to the total body, total abdomen, or to the total body followed by rescue with syngeneic bone marrow cells. The relationship between animal survival and jejunal crypt survival was also examined under these three experimental conditions. The LD50/10 after total abdominal irradiation (15.6 Gy) was higher than that for total body irradiation (11.4 Gy). Rescue with syngeneic bone marrow cells after total body irradiation also increased the LD50 10 days to 14.6 Gy. The proportion of animals surviving after total body irradiation depended on the number of bone marrow cells injected as a rescue inoculum. Hence gastrointestinal death after total body irradiation is influenced by bone marrow depletion. Crypt survival, however, was similar following all three experimental procedures. These data, therefore, demonstrate a dissociation between a clonogenic and lethality assay of intestinal damage. Furthermore, a comparison of crypt survival at the LD50 under the different conditions showed that a factor of 10 times more crypts were needed to rescue a mouse from gut lethality when the total body was irradiated than when only the total abdomen was treated. Hence, the concept of the intestinal "tissue rescuing unit" as a precise and constant number of crypts is inappropriate and will vary with the experimental conditions. PMID- 2528528 TI - AIDS in Arkansas. AIDS-related services in Arkansas. AMS Special Committee on AIDS. PMID- 2528530 TI - Malpractice insurance made easy? PMID- 2528527 TI - Radiosensitization by a new nucleoside analogue: 1-[2-hydroxy-1 (hydroxymethyl)ethoxy]methyl-2-nitroimidazole (RP-170). AB - A new potent hypoxic cell sensitizer, a 2-nitroimidazole nucleoside analogue having methoxyglycerol as a sugar moiety at the N-1 position of the imidazole ring (RP-170), has been synthesized. Its radiosensitizing activities in vitro and in vivo were investigated and compared with those of misonidazole (MISO) and etanidazole (SR-2508). As might be expected from the almost identical electron affinities of the three compounds, they were equally effective against hypoxic EMT6 cells in vitro. The in vivo-in vitro excision analysis showed that RP-170 was also as effective as MISO and etanidazole to radiosensitize solid tumor cells in vivo. An intraperitoneal administration of 200 mg/kg of RP-170 and an intravenous administration of the same dose of etanidazole showed an equal sensitizer-enhancement ratio of 1.51 to solid EMT6/KU tumors. Its effectiveness was also demonstrated by growth delay assay using solid SCCVII tumors. As predicted from the low partition coefficient, RP-170 and etanidazole showed apparently lower toxicity in vivo than MISO; their LD50/14 were 4.3, 4.8, and 1.8 g/kg in our experiment, respectively. Moreover, RP-170 showed fast clearance from serum in mice (t1/2 = 10.24 min) and poor penetration into neural tissues. Although RP-170 does not show any advantages over etanidazole in terms of sensitization or toxicity, RP-170 might be preferable under certain circumstances because it can be given orally. PMID- 2528529 TI - Anabolic steroid legislation Act 249 of 1989. AB - Health care professionals are urged to be alert to the potential for adverse effects common to the use of anabolic steroids by athletes and others, including high school and college students active in varsity sports or body lifting. The Department of Health, Division of Pharmacy Services and Drug Control asks for cooperation and assistance in helping combat the illegal diversion by physicians and pharmacies of these hazardous drugs and to ensure that these drugs are available to patients only through legitimate channels. Act 249 of 1989 was enacted to prevent the distribution and use of illegal anabolic steroids and growth hormones and for purposes of defining and setting penalties for the illegal use. PMID- 2528531 TI - Are practice guidelines cookbook medicine? PMID- 2528532 TI - The Harvard Resource Based Relative Value Scale. PMID- 2528533 TI - Family practice in an era of cost containment. PMID- 2528534 TI - Hans Georg Schlumberger, B.S., M.D. 1913-1967. PMID- 2528535 TI - Special education in Arkansas. PMID- 2528536 TI - The cardiac donor, the cardiac recipient. PMID- 2528537 TI - Adenocarcinoma of the small intestine. PMID- 2528538 TI - Hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia: a review. AB - HED is an X-linked recessive disease involving abnormalities of tissues of ectodermal origin due to developmental disturbances in the embryonal state. These abnormalities include 1) trichodysplasia, 2) dental defects, 3) onychodysplasia, and 4) dyshidrosis. Also common are thin, dry skin, typical facial features such as saddle-nose deformity and periorbital wrinkling/pigmentation, otolaryngologic problems, eczema, and respiratory disease. Diagnosis of HED may be suspected in a child with recurrent fever of unknown etiology, thin blond hair, and anodontia. The diagnosis can be strengthened by low or absent sweat pore counts, and confirmed by palmar skin biopsy. Management is multidisciplinary and mainly involves avoidance of hyperpyrexia in the early years. At school age and beyond, the cosmetic features become more of a concern to the patient. As adults, these patients usually lead fairly normal lives both physically and socially, and have a life expectancy similar to that of the general population. PMID- 2528540 TI - Deglycosylation and proteolysis of photolabeled D2 dopamine receptors of the porcine anterior pituitary. AB - Dopamine D2 receptor binding subunits of the porcine anterior pituitary were visualized by autoradiography following photoaffinity labeling with [125I]N azidophenethylspiperone and sodium dodecyl-sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The ligand binding subunit comprising the pituitary D2 dopamine receptor migrated as two distinct bands of apparent Mr approximately equal to 150,000 and 118,000, substantially higher than neuronal D2 receptor subunits from porcine or canine brain. The glycoprotein nature of pituitary D2 receptor binding subunits was investigated by the use of exo- and endo-glycosidase treatments and peptide mapping experiments. Photoaffinity labeled polypeptides of the anterior pituitary were susceptible to both neuraminidase and alpha-mannosidase digestion as indexed by their increased electrophoretic mobility on sodium dodecyl-sulfate polyacrylamide gels, and suggests the presence of both complex type and terminal mannose carbohydrate residues. Moreover, the additive effects of sequential treatment with these enzymes suggests that both types of carbohydrate chains are present on each receptor peptide. N-linked deglycosylation of pituitary D2 photolabeled receptors with glycopeptidase-F produced a further increase in the mobility of the labeled protein to apparent Mr approximately equal to 44,000, similar to that of deglycosylated D2 binding subunits of porcine and canine brain. Peptide mapping experiments following limited proteolysis with Staphylococcus aureus V8 proteinase and papain demonstrated that deglycosylated D2 dopamine receptors (Mr = 44,000), in different tissues and species, were homologous. Taken together, these data suggest that despite the differences in the overall molecular weight and tissue specific glycosylation pattern of pituitary D2 dopamine receptors, the primary structure of mammalian D2 receptors appears to be conserved. PMID- 2528539 TI - Topological investigations. Study of the trypsin sensitivity of the N acetylglucosaminyl and mannosyl-transferase activities located in the outer mitochondrial membrane. AB - The trypsin sensitivity of the mitochondrial N-acetylglucosaminyl and mannosyltransferase activities involved in the N-glycoprotein biosynthesis through dolichol intermediates as well as the N-acetylglucosaminyl-transferase activity involved in direct N-glycosylation were examined in mitochondria and isolated outer mitochondrial membrane preparations. The trypsin action on mitochondrial membrane was checked by measuring the activities of marker enzymes (rotenone-insensitive NADH cytochrome c reductase, adenylate kinase, and monoamine oxidase). Glycosyl-transferase activities of both N-glycosylation pathways were insensitive to trypsin action and consequently were located in the outer mitochondrial membrane. Based on the activator effect of the trypsin on these enzyme activities, the results suggested two distinct orientations of their active sites. As regards the N-glycoprotein biosynthesis pathway through dolichol intermediates, the dolicholphosphoryl-mannose and dolichol-pyrophosphoryl-di-N acetylchitobiose synthases would be oriented outside while the oligomannosyl synthase and the oligomannosyl-transferase would be rather oriented inside in the outer membrane. The N-acetylglucosaminyl-transferase involved in the direct transfer of N-acetylglucosamine from its nucleotide donor to a proteinic acceptor would be oriented outside in the outer membrane. PMID- 2528541 TI - Structure and expression of cDNA for calphobindin II, a human placental coagulation inhibitor. AB - Calphobindin II, with Mr 73,000, is one of the human placental anticoagulant proteins. The cDNA encoding calphobindin II was obtained by screening a human placental lambda gt11 cDNA library using a specific antibody as a probe. The longest cDNA insert consisted of 2,361 nucleotides and a 64-nucleotide-long poly(A) tract. An open reading frame encoding 673 amino acids was predicted. The deduced sequence includes an 8-fold repeat of a conserved 70-amino-acid-long segment that has a high degree of sequence identity with the repeated segments in members of the Ca2+-dependent phospholipid binding protein family. The cDNA fragment including the open reading frame was introduced into the expression vector pKK223-3 and subsequently expressed in Escherichia coli JM105 cells. The resulting recombinant protein reacted with the specific monoclonal antibodies to calphobindin II and prolonged the blood coagulation time as did placental calphobindin II. PMID- 2528542 TI - Nucleotide-free kinesin hydrolyzes ATP with burst kinetics. AB - Bovine brain kinesin binds ADP tightly and contains a stoichiometric amount of ADP at its active site when isolated in the presence of free Mg2+ (Hackney, D. D. (1988) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 85, 6314-6318). EDTA in excess of Mg2+ weakens ADP binding and nucleotide-free kinesin can be prepared by gel filtration with excess EDTA. On addition of ATP, this nucleotide-free enzyme catalyzes the rapid hydrolysis of a stoichiometric amount of ATP in a burst phase followed by much slower continued ATP hydrolysis limited by the release of ADP from the active site. This burst reaction is evident both by formation of [32P]Pi from [gamma-32P]ATP and by formation of [alpha-32P]ADP from [alpha-32P]ATP. At 1.1 nM kinesin active sites, the observed rate of the burst phase increases linearly with ATP over the 1-20 nM range yielding a bimolecular rate of net ATP binding and hydrolysis of 2.5 microM-1 s-1. The intercept at zero ATP is 0.008 s-1 which equals the ADP release rate at 0.008-0.009 s-1. This predicts a Km for ATP of approximately 3.5 nM and measurements of the dependence on ATP concentration of the steady state rate and amount of bound ADP are consistent with a Km of this magnitude. PMID- 2528543 TI - The keratan sulfate-enriched region of bovine cartilage proteoglycan consists of a consecutively repeated hexapeptide motif. AB - We have determined the sequence of a cDNA clone encoding the keratan sulfate-rich domain of the large aggregating cartilage proteoglycan core protein. The C terminal portion of the deduced amino acid sequence is homologous to the chondroitin sulfate-rich region (domain CS1) of the rat chondrosarcoma proteoglycan, and the N-terminal portion is homologous to the second globular domain (G2) of the rat proteoglycan (Doege, K., Sasaki, M., Horigan, E., Hassell, J. R., and Yamada, Y. (1987) J. Biol. Chem. 262, 17757-17767). We could identify, inserted between these regions, a region absent in the rat proteoglycan. This domain corresponds to the keratan sulfate-enriched region of the bovine proteoglycan. It consists of a highly conserved hexapeptide motif consecutively repeated 23 times. Transfer blot analysis of genomic DNA indicated a single gene. The coding region for the keratan sulfate-enriched region was present both in human and bovine DNA, whereas the coding region for this domain appears to be absent in the rat genome. Transfer blot analysis of RNA showed that the keratan sulfate-rich region is present in proteoglycans from fetal as well as adult sources. Furthermore, RNA protection assays of RNA isolated from adult and fetal bovine articular cartilage showed that no alternative splicing occurs within this keratan sulfate-enriched region. These experiments show that the fetal bovine cartilage proteoglycan contains the keratan sulfate attachment domain, although it lacks the keratan sulfate side chains. PMID- 2528544 TI - The amino and carboxyl termini of the Neurospora plasma membrane H+-ATPase are cytoplasmically located. AB - Based on hydropathy analysis, the P-type cation translocating ATPases are believed to have similar topological arrangements in the membrane, but little independent evidence exists for their precise pattern of transmembrane folding. As a first step toward defining the topology of the Neurospora plasma membrane H+ ATPase, we have mapped the orientation of the amino and carboxyl termini. In three different types of experiments, both termini of the H+-ATPase were shown to be exposed at the cytoplasmic surface of the plasma membrane: 1) antibodies specific for the amino and carboxyl termini bound to permeabilized but not intact cells; 2) inside-out plasma membrane vesicles were approximately 100-fold more effective than intact cells in competing for antibody binding; and 3) trypsin, which is known to proteolyze three sites at the amino terminus and one site at the carboxyl terminus of the purified Neurospora H+-ATPase (Mandala, S. M., and Slayman, C. W. (1988) J. Biol. Chem. 263, 15122-15128), was found in the present study to cleave the same sites in inside-out plasma membrane vesicles but not in intact cells. These results indicate that the ATPase polypeptide traverses the membrane an even number of times, in support of a previously published topological model (Hager, K. M., Mandala, S. M., Davenport, J. W., Speicher, D. W., Benz, E. J., Jr., and Slayman, C. W. (1986) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U. S. A. 83, 7693-7697). PMID- 2528545 TI - Purification of the thromboxane A2/prostaglandin H2 receptor from human blood platelets. AB - S-145 (5Z-7-(3-endo-phenylsulfonylamino-(2.2.1.)-bicyclohept -2-exo-yl) heptenoic acid) is a potent and selective antagonist for thromboxane A2/prostaglandin H2 receptor. Using this compound as an immobilized ligand for affinity chromatography and [3H]S-145 as a radioligand, we have purified the thromboxane A2/prostaglandin H2 receptor from the membranes of human blood platelets. The purification procedures consisted of solubilization of the receptor with 3-[(3 cholamidopropyl)dimethylammonio]-1-propanesulfonate (CHAPS), affinity chromatographies on columns of S-145 affinity gel, wheat germ agglutinin agarose and red agarose, and repeated gel filtration high performance liquid chromatography on a TSK gel G-3000SW column. On the second gel filtration high performance liquid chromatography, the [3H]S-145 binding activity was eluted as a symmetrical peak which overlapped exactly with a peak of ultraviolet absorption at 280 nm. By these procedures, the receptor was purified about 8700-fold from the solubilized extract with a recovery of 6%. The final preparation showed a broad protein band at Mr 57,000 on sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and maximally bound 19.2 nmol of [3H]S-145/mg protein with a Kd of 29.8 nM. The [3H]S-145 binding to the purified receptor was specifically displaced by several thromboxane A2/prostaglandin H2 analogues. PMID- 2528546 TI - A mutation altering the kinetic responses of the yeast mitochondrial F1-ATPase. AB - Nucleotide-binding proteins, including the mitochondrial F1-ATPase, the ras proteins, and the G-proteins, contain a homologous glycine-rich sequence that is thought to constitute part of the active site. This study reports the effects of a single amino acid replacement of Thr197 to Ser197, which is located at the hinge region of this putative loop, in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae F1 ATPase. This replacement resulted in a 3-fold increase in the specific activity of the enzyme, eliminated the stimulatory effects of oxyanions, and modulated the effects of the inhibitor NaN3 while having little effect on the uni-site ATPase. These results indicate a role of the glycine-rich loop in many of the kinetic responses of the F1-ATPase. PMID- 2528547 TI - In vitro stimulation of fibroblast activity by factors generated from human monocytes activated by biomedical polymers. AB - Biomedical polymers used in constructing implantable artificial devices may affect host responses to the material and ultimately contribute to the success or failure of a device via mechanisms of cell-polymer interactions. Human peripheral blood monocytes (MO) cultured in the presence of several such biomedical polymers released factors that stimulated fibroblast proliferation and/or collagen synthesis. The factors that stimulated fibroblast proliferation were differentially released from monocytes cultured in the presence of Dacron, polyethylene, expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE), polydimethylsiloxane, and polystyrene (control). Supernatants obtained from monocytes cultured in the presence of Biomer, a segmented polyetherurethane, were unable to stimulate fibroblast proliferation. However, supernatants from all cultures, including MO Biomer cultures, were able to induce collagen production from the same target fibroblasts. These same supernatants also were shown to contain interleukin 1 (IL1) activity. Neutralization of the fibroblast stimulatory potential (FSP) activity with antibodies directed against human IL1 and human PDGF demonstrated that IL1 and not PDGF was responsible for the FSP activity. Results of this study show that by affecting macrophage activation, different biomedical polymers can affect host biocompatibility responses by altering fibroblast proliferation and function. PMID- 2528549 TI - Assessment of metabolic activity in aortic vein grafts in rats by histochemical examination of hydrolases. AB - The metabolic pattern of aortic vein grafts in rats was studied by estimating histochemically the activity of the hydrolytic enzymes alfa-esterase, aminopeptidase, adenosine triphosphatase, acid phosphatase and alkaline phosphatase. The enzyme activity was lowest in the 16 hour and 1 day old grafts, and recovery was noted at three days. Five days after transplantation the enzyme activities were higher than in the non-transplanted veins. The rapid increase in enzymatic activity found in histochemical studies on wound healing was not seen in these vein grafts. At four weeks some grafts showed intimal thickening the activity of which did not exceed that of the other layers of the graft wall. At the end of the observation period of sixteen weeks most of the grafts showed intimal thickening, and this layer stained intensely especially for ATPase. The staining pattern of most of the grafts at sixteen weeks resembled that of the aortic media. PMID- 2528548 TI - Generation of IL-1-like activity in response to biomedical polymer implants: a comparison of in vitro and in vivo models. AB - Of the many factors determining host biocompatibility responses to implanted biomedical polymers, the cellular interactions at the tissue/material interface have been recognized to be some of the most important. The present study has combined results both from an in vitro cell culture system and from an in vivo animal model to examine this host response. In vitro results suggest that a variety of polymer materials can differentially activate human monocytes to produce a protein(s) having different biological activities. The polymers tested induce the production of the regulatory inflammatory protein interleukin 1 as well as a factor that enhances fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis. The observed activities of these factors appear to be related but not identical, and are dependent upon the specific polymer. Evaluation of exudate and tissue responses to these same polymer materials in an in vivo model are also presented. Both in vitro and in vivo results support the hypothesis that monocyte/macrophage activation with subsequent synthesis of regulatory factors such as interleukin 1 plays a significant role in determining the host response to biomedical polymer implants. PMID- 2528550 TI - Post-transfusion graft-versus-host disease following open heart surgery. Report of six cases. AB - Six cases of post-operative erythroderma after open heart surgery are described. About 10 days after seemingly uneventful recovery, all patients developed fever, erythroderma, liver enzyme elevation, pancytopenia, and an aplastic bone marrow. Their condition rapidly deteriorated, and they died within 20 days of the onset of symptoms. Skin biopsy specimens from two patients showed mild leukocytic infiltration in the epidermal basal layer and upper dermis. Immunostaining by the ABC method showed that most of these infiltrating cells were suppressor/cytotoxic T cells. HLA study of peripheral lymphocytes from two patients and their families revealed that the patients' HLA phenotypes were incompatible from their children's HLA findings. Y chromatin was present in the lymphocytes of the skin biopsy specimen of a female patient. Based on the clinical picture, skin biopsy, HLA study, and Y chromatin study, the authors strongly suspect post-transfusion GVHD as the etiology of postoperative erythroderma, although these patients lacked any known immunodeficiency. PMID- 2528551 TI - Sequential expression of cell surface C3bi receptors during neutrophil locomotion. AB - Fluorescence microscopy has been used to study the cell surface distribution of the complement receptor for C3bi (CR3) on human neutrophils during locomotion. CR3 is an integral membrane protein that participates in cell attachment phenomena including chemotaxis. Fluorescein- and rhodamine-conjugated monoclonal IgG or Fab fragments were used to label CR3. We have previously shown that CR3 is uniformly distributed on unstimulated cells. During cell locomotion the fluorescent labels redistribute to the uropod and retraction fibers. To better understand the role of CR3 in chemotaxis, we have performed sequential two-color labeling experiments in conjunction with fluorescence microscopy. Double-labeling experiments were conducted by labeling adherent neutrophils with fluorescein conjugated anti-CR3 followed by chemotaxis in a gradient of FMLP (10(-7) M). The cells were then labeled again with rhodamine-conjugated anti-CR3. The uropod and distal training filopodia were labeled with fluorescein, whereas the cell body and occasionally proximal filopodia near the uropod were labeled with rhodamine. When neutrophils were fixed and permeabilized prior to the second CR3 labeling, the second fluorescent label was localized to a granule-like compartment(s), often near the lamellipodium. The results suggest a flow of CR3 from intracellular granules----lamellipodia and cell body----uropod----trailing filopodia during chemotaxis. PMID- 2528553 TI - Cytotoxicity of gelonin and its conjugates with antibodies is determined by the extent of their endocytosis. AB - Conjugates of the single-chain ribosome-inactivating protein gelonin with ligands that bind to cell surface molecules vary greatly in their cytotoxicity. Conjugates that are not endocytosed after binding to cells exhibit low cytotoxicity similar to that of free gelonin, while conjugates that are endocytosed demonstrate enhanced cytotoxicity relative to free gelonin. However, the number of internalized gelonin molecules needed to intoxicate cells to the same degree has been found to be similar for all conjugates and for free gelonin. The intracellular concentration of gelonin has to be between 2,000-10,000 molecules/cells to achieve a surviving fraction of 0.37. Our studies revealed the presence of three distinct categories of cell surface molecules, those that are efficient in mediating endocytosis of immunotoxins, those that are only moderately efficient, and those that seem not to cause internalization of bound immunotoxins. PMID- 2528552 TI - Extracellular matrix heparan sulfate proteoglycans modulate the mitogenic capacity of acidic fibroblast growth factor. AB - Confluent cultures of human endothelial cells deposit into extracellular matrix (ECM) distinct heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPG) which modulate acidic fibroblast growth factor's (aFGF) ability to stimulate human endothelial cell mitogenic capacity. Extracellular matrix 35S-HSPG were isolated from cultures metabolically labelled with Na235SO4 by DEAE-Sepharose, Sepharose CL-4B, and aFGF Affi-Gel 15 column chromatography and identified by resistance to chondroitinase ABC and sensitivity to nitrous acid. Fifty to sixty percent of the 35S-HSPG deposited into ECM do not bind aFGF. The bound 35S-HSGP (40-50% of the total counts applied) eluted from the aFGF-Affi-Gel column after the addition of buffer containing 2 M NaCl. aFGF-binding and aFGF-nonbinding 35S-HSPG were individually pooled and further purified by Sepharose CL-4B column chromatography. 35S-HSPG which bind aFGF, designated HSPGP, were 100-fold superior to heparin in augmenting the mitogenic efficacy of aFGF in sparse proliferating cultures. In contrast, however, 35S-HSPG, which did not bind aFGF, designated HSPG1, inhibited aFGF-stimulated proliferation in both sparse and subconfluent endothelial cell cultures. The majority of the biological activity of both aFGF-potentiating HSPGP and aFGF-inhibitory HSPG1 was contained in the glycosaminoglycan chains released by alkaline borohydride treatment of intact HSPGP or HSPG1, respectively. 3H-Core protein derived from HSPGP or HSPG1 contained only minor biological activity. The ability of heparitinase or heparinase (Flavobacterium heparinum) to abolish biological activity differed, depending upon the HSPG tested, also suggested that these are two distinct HSPGs. PMID- 2528554 TI - Demonstration and partial characterization of the interferon-gamma receptor on human B lymphocytes. AB - The expression of interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) receptors on normal human B cells and four B cell lines was studied. Recombinant human IFN-gamma was labeled with [gamma-32P]ATP using the catalytic subunit of a cAMP-dependent protein kinase. All four B cell lines, although differing in their responsiveness to IFN-gamma, were found to express high-affinity receptors (1,000-11,000 receptors/cell). Normal unactivated B lymphocytes were also found to express constitutively high affinity receptors, approximately 1,400 receptors per cell with an estimated affinity of 295 pM. Activation of the normal B cells in vitro with the polyclonal B cell activator, Staphylococcus aureus Cowan strain I (SAC), resulted in a slight decline in receptor number and a more pronounced fall in receptor density. One of the B cell lines and unactivated normal B cells were shown to internalize labeled IFN-gamma rapidly. Chemical cross-linking of 32P-IFN-gamma to the CB B cell line and to freshly isolated B lymphocytes revealed one major cross-linked receptor-ligand complex which had an estimated molecular weight of approximately 110 kilodaltons. This complex corresponded to a 93 kD receptor cross-linked to recombinant IFN-gamma. Our data indicate that normal B lymphocytes constitutively express an approximately 93 kD IFN-gamma receptor which is similar to the receptor present on Epstein-Barr virus-transformed B cell lines. PMID- 2528555 TI - Kinetic analysis of central [11C]raclopride binding to D2-dopamine receptors studied by PET--a comparison to the equilibrium analysis. AB - [11C]Raclopride binding to central D2-dopamine receptors in humans has previously been examined by positron emission tomography (PET). Based on the rapid occurrence of binding equilibrium, a saturation analysis has been developed for the determination of receptor density (Bmax) and affinity (Kd). For analysis of PET measurements obtained with other ligands, a kinetic three-compartment model has been used. In the present study, the brain uptake of [11C]raclopride was analyzed further by applying both a kinetic and an equilibrium analysis to data obtained from four PET experiments in each of three healthy subjects. First regional CBV was determined. In the second and third experiment, [11C]-raclopride with high and low specific activity was used. In a fourth experiment, the [11C]raclopride enantiomer [11C]FLB472 was used to examine the concentration of free radioligand and nonspecific binding in brain. Radio-activity in arterial blood was measured using an automated blood sampling system. Bmax and Kd values for [11C]raclopride binding could be determined also with the kinetic analysis. As expected theoretically, those values were similar to those obtained with the equilibrium analysis. In addition, the kinetic analysis allowed separate determination of the association and dissociation rate constants, kon and koff, respectively. Examination of [11C]raclopride and [11C]FLB472 uptake in brain regions devoid of specific D2-dopamine receptor binding indicated a fourth compartment in which uptake was reversible, nonstereoselective, and nonsaturable in the dose range studied. PMID- 2528556 TI - Diabetic retinopathy and nephropathy--are they related? PMID- 2528557 TI - Aldose reductase in the etiology of diabetic complications. 3. Neuropathy. AB - Aldose reductase has been shown to be present in both autonomic and somatic nerves. Activation of this enzyme and the polyol pathway has been demonstrated in diabetic animal models to cause a range of biochemical, functional, and structural consequences that include the accumulation of sorbitol and fructose; axoglial dysjunction; paranodal demyelination; abnormalities in axonal transport, blood flow, and vascular permeability; and resistance to ischemic transmission of action potentials. These data provide an insight into the range of processes that if activated may either singly or in combination result in altered patterns of nerve function and structural alterations in diabetic neuropathy. In animal models of diabetes, it has been shown that inhibition of aldose reductase can modify these diabetes-induced changes. It is hoped that the results of large scale controlled trials will provide clinical evidence to support these data. PMID- 2528558 TI - Glomerular basement membrane thickening in streptozotocin diabetic rats despite treatment with an aldose reductase inhibitor. AB - This study concerns the possible prevention of glomerular basement membrane thickening in experimental diabetes by an aldose reductase inhibitor (ARI), Statil. ARI added to the chow was given to streptozotocin diabetic rats over a period of 6 months. Reference groups were control rats and diabetic rats on the same chow without ARI. The diabetic rats were given insulin two or three times a week, and blood glucose was measured monthly before insulin injections. There was a marked difference in the occurrence of cataracts between the two diabetic groups. ARI treated rats tended to have lower blood glucose than the diabetic reference group, but the difference was not significant. At the termination of the experiment, the left kidney was perfusion fixed, weighed, and prepared for light and electron microscopy. Systematic random sampling from the entire kidney was performed to obtain light microscopic visual fields and ultrathin sections from two glomeruli. Mean glomerular volume was estimated by light microscopy, and glomerular basement membrane thickness, by electron microscopy. Basement membrane thickness was significantly increased in untreated diabetic rats (174 nm, SD = 4.5 nm) as compared to that of controls (Mean: 154 nm, SD = 11.0 nm), and was even more so in ARI treated rats (187 nm, SD = 18.7 nm), although the ARI treated rats showed less renal and glomerular hypertrophy than did untreated diabetic rats. In conclusion, the ARI treatment over an experimental period of 6 months attenuated diabetic renal and glomerular hypertrophy, but had no effect at all on diabetic glomerular basement membrane thickening. PMID- 2528559 TI - Elevated blood viscosity in alloxan diabetic dogs and experimentally galactosemic dogs. AB - Blood viscosity was investigated in alloxan-diabetic dogs and in dogs made experimentally hyperglycemic by a galactose-rich diet. The diabetics were prospectively assigned to levels of glycemic control ranging from poor to good. After up to 5 years of study, the blood viscosity of hyperglycemic diabetic animals was significantly greater than normal at both high (100 sec-1) and low (0.1 sec-1) shear rates. Blood viscosity at the low shear rate correlated closely with fibrinogen concentration, (r = 0.75; p less than 0.02) but not with HbA1 concentration (r = 0.14) in the diabetics. Galactosemic animals likewise had elevated blood viscosity at the low shear rate, but the correlation of viscosity with fibrinogen concentration in those animals was not statistically significant (r = 0.42). Plasma viscosity tended to be elevated in both diabetes and galactosemia, but not to a statistically significant degree. PMID- 2528560 TI - Causes of death in insulin-dependent diabetic patients treated with hemodialysis. AB - Causes of death were analyzed for 63 diabetic patients treated with hemodialysis. In all cases, autopsy-based death certificates were evaluated. The causes of death were compared during the periods 1969 through 1979 versus 1980 through 1987, and the causes of death in patients who died after less than 18 months versus those who died greater than 18 months after starting hemodialysis treatment. Our population of decreased diabetics had a mean age of 41.8 years, with a mean of 23.4 years of diabetes duration. The mean age at manifestation of diabetes was 18.2 years. Cardiac failure has been shown to be the most prevalent cause of death (55.6%), while sepsis accounted for 20.6% of the deaths. In both the period from 1969 through 1979 and that from 1980 through 1987, cardiac failure was identified as the commonest cause of death, with an equal proportion of septic causes (i.e., 20% versus 21.05%). When comparing causes of death among diabetics on hemodialysis for less than 18 months versus those receiving greater than 18 months of treatment, cardiac failure was responsible for 54% versus 61.5% of deaths. Septic causes were found to be more prevalent after a longer duration of treatment (i.e., 30.8%). Therefore, it is concluded that to prevent cardiac deaths, blood pressure control has to be as tight as possible in patients with diabetic kidney disease. To prevent late-occurring septic deaths, good nutritional status in patients undergoing hemodialysis seems to be of importance. The prevention of macroangiopathy in diabetes represents a major medical problem that needs to be solved. PMID- 2528561 TI - Further evidence for tubular dysfunction in insulin dependent diabetes. AB - There is evidence that increased excretion of urinary enzymes and low-molecular mass proteins indicate impaired tubular function. The excretion of N-acetyl-beta D-glucosaminidase (NAG), lysozyme, and ribonuclease in Type I diabetic patients with (n = 19) and without (n = 17) persistent proteinuria (urinary protein excretion greater than 0.5 g/day) was investigated and compared with this excretion in 30 weight- and gender-matched nondiabetic subjects without renal disease. Urinary NAG excretion was significantly higher in diabetic patients with and without persistent proteinuria (1.16 +/- 0.09 and 3.19 +/- 1.2 Umol/L creatinine, respectively) compared to controls (0.37 +/- 0.03 Umol/L creatinine p less than 0.01). In addition, the urinary excretion of lysozyme and ribonuclease was significantly increased in diabetic patients. Urinary NAG was found to correlate positively with albuminuria and proteinuria (r = 0.95 and 0.93, respectively), as well as with ribonuclease and lysozyme (r = 0.93 and 0.60; p less than 0.01) in patients with persistent proteinuria. Furthermore, NAG excretion was significantly related to the duration of diabetes (r = 0.36; p less than 0.05). No relationship existed between urinary NAG and serum creatinine, beta-2-microglobulin, and degree of metabolic control (HbA7). The lysozyme excretion, but not NAG excretion, was significantly related to hypertension in patients with clinical proteinuria. In conclusion, our results suggest a relationship between the development of tubular dysfunction and the impairment of glomerular function in diabetic nephropathy. An increased excretion of NAG and low-molecular mass proteins may indicate early nephropathy PMID- 2528562 TI - Relationship between urinary albumin excretion rate and renal histology in non insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus: with reference to the clinical significance of microalbuminuria. AB - The present study demonstrates the relationship between urinary albumin excretion rate (AER) and renal structural changes in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) without clinical proteinuria. Resting AER in 30 control subjects and 67 NIDDM patients were 10.4 +/- 4.8 (mean +/- SD) micrograms/min (range 4.3-21.1 micrograms/min) and 26.4 +/- 32.3 micrograms/min (range 0.4-155 micrograms/min), respectively. Persistent normoalbuminuria (less than 20 micrograms/min) and microalbuminuria (20-200 micrograms/min) were found in 43 (Group A) and 24 (Group B) diabetics. There were significant differences in age, diabetes duration, and frequency of retinopathy (background and proliferative) as well as that of proliferative retinopathy between Groups A and B, but not in the other clinical parameters such as body mass index, HbA1, Ccr, or systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP, DBP). When compared with 11 normoalbuminuric patients of similar age and equal diabetes duration to those in Group B, the sole difference in clinical parameters was the existence of proliferative retinopathy in Group B. Renal structural changes were investigated by light microscopy in 14 people in Group A and 13 people in Group B, and additionally in 5 NIDDM patients with both macroalbuminuria (greater than or equal to 200 micrograms/min) and normal or nearly normal renal function (Group C). The diffuse glomerular lesion (Gellman's classification) was grade I or II in A, II or III in B, and III in C.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528563 TI - Primary renal candidiasis associated with a penile prosthesis in a diabetic man. AB - Infectious complications of penile prostheses are unusual even in diabetic patients, and generally involve Staphylococcus or gram-negative enteric organisms. This paper presents a diabetic patient who developed fatal, primary renal candidiasis associated with an infected penile prosthesis. He is the fourth patient we have seen with refractory nausea and vomiting associated with a cryptic urinary infection. Invasive Candida should always be considered in a diabetic patient with evidence of a urinary tract infection. PMID- 2528564 TI - [Arterial substitutes used in peripheral vascular surgery]. AB - Peripheral vascular surgery frequently requires the implantation of substitute arteries for the re-establishment of blood flow. Biological grafts, either authentic (autograft or venous homograft) or processed (bovine heterograft, human umbilical vein) comproise the first group. The venous autograft possesses a real capacity of healing and remains the established standard for small and medium bore conduits. The other biological models lead to unpredictable outcomes. The second group of substitutes is composed of synthetic prostheses made from Teflon R or DacronR. Although of lesser healing capacity, their durability is excellent. Finally, numerous prostheses are under development. Before proceeding to human implantation, it is advisable to evaluate them without prejudice. PMID- 2528565 TI - Measurement of hydroperoxydocosahexaenoic acid in rat brain homogenates by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. PMID- 2528566 TI - Crown ethers as ligands for high-performance liquid chromatography of proteins and nucleic acids. AB - By immobilization of the crown ether 1,10-diaza-18-crown-6 to different porous and non-porous, epoxy-activated supports, a chromatographic sorbent was prepared, which, mediated by potassium ions, can be used for the separation of both nucleic acids and proteins. Model experiments have been carried out with ribonucleic and deoxyribonucleic acids. In experiments with standard proteins the influence of pH and the role of loading of the column with potassium ions were demonstrated. The column was used for separating complex protein mixtures, such as serum and plasma membrane extracts, in the presence of detergents. PMID- 2528568 TI - The role of frequency of atrial contraction versus atrial pressure in atrial natriuretic peptide release. AB - This study was designed to investigate the role of frequency of atrial contraction compared to acute increases in right atrial pressure in the regulation of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) release in humans. The studies were performed in patients undergoing electrophysiological study. In group 1 (n = 12) the rate of atrial contraction was increased by continuous rapid right atrial pacing at a rate of 120 beats/min (bpm; group 1A; n = 6) or 176 bpm (group lb; n = 6) for 5 min. No increases in atrial pressure or circulating ANP occurred in response to atrial tachycardia. In contrast, continuous rapid right ventricular pacing (group II: n = 12) at ventricular rates of 120 bpm (group IIa; n = 6) and 150 bpm (group IIb; n = 6) increased both right atrial pressure and circulating ANP. These results demonstrate that, in contrast to studies in vitro, increases in the frequency of atrial contraction in the absence of increases in atrial pressure do not release atrial natriuretic peptide. These studies, therefore, support the conclusion that atrial pressure is the primary physiological stimulus for ANP. PMID- 2528567 TI - Expression of the atrial natriuretic peptide gene in human fetal heart. AB - Expression of the human atrial natriuretic peptide (hANP) gene was examined in tissues of 19 to 28-week-old human fetuses. As expected the fetal atria express the hANP gene at a high level, accruing substantial quantities of ANP immunoreactivity and ANP mRNA. The neonatal ventricle also expresses the hANP gene at a significant level. ANP mRNA levels in the ventricle were, on the average, about 20% of those in the right atria. ANP immunoreactivity in ventricle was less that 5% of that in the right atria, suggesting important differences in the way these tissues synthesize and store the ANP peptide. Much lower levels of hANP transcripts were also detected in the lung and aortic arch. Analysis of the 5' termini of cardiac hANP transcripts using three independent techniques suggests the presence of two transcription start sites. A major start site is located approximately 28 basepairs downstream from the primary TATA sequence. A second minor start site is positioned about 110 basepairs further upstream. Immunocytochemistry and in situ hybridization analysis indicate that the hANP gene is expressed in a homogeneous distribution throughout the atrial myocardium. Diffuse low level expression is also present within the ventricular myocardium. In addition, there are scattered foci of increased expression in the ventricle which tend to be concentrated in the subendocardium of that organ. These findings indicate that the developing human ventricles as well as the atria possess the capacity to express the hANP gene at a substantial level and suggest that the ventricle may contribute significantly to the circulating pool of plasma ANP. PMID- 2528569 TI - Salivary oestradiol in spontaneous and stimulated menstrual cycles. AB - The determination of steroids in saliva provides useful information in the clinical study of various endocrine functions, and salivary progesterone concentration has been widely used for assessing corpus luteum function during the spontaneous menstrual cycle and early pregnancy. However, the determination of oestradiol in saliva (SE2) has previously been found unsatisfactory. SE2 profiles and saliva/plasma E2 ratios were established (during the different periods of the menstrual cycle) by a highly sensitive radioimmunoassay method during normal menstrual cycle. During cycles hyperstimulated for in-vitro fertilization and embryo transfer, the SE2 pattern is similar to the corresponding profile in plasma with a peri-ovulatory oestradiol peak. There is a significant difference between fertile and non-fertile cycles with a higher saliva/plasma ratio in conception cycles. PMID- 2528570 TI - The value of GnRH analogue therapy in IVF in women with unexplained infertility. AB - Seventy-six women with unexplained infertility, undergoing in-vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-embryo transfer), were selected for three different ovulation induction protocols. In group I, induction of ovulation was performed with pure follicle-stimulating hormone/human menopausal gonadotrophin/human chorionic gonadotrophin (pFSH/HMG/HCG). Group II patients were given a combined therapy consisting of a gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogue, decapeptyl (DTRP6) followed by pFSH/HMG/HCG. In group III, patients underwent two IVF-embryo transfer cycles, serving as their own controls. The initial cycle was induced with pFSH/HMG/HCG while the second was stimulated using decapeptyl/pFSH/HMG/HCG. Significantly higher rates of fertilization, cleavage and pregnancy (P less than 0.001, P less than 0.07, P less than 0.001, respectively) were achieved in group II patients to whom combined GnRH agonists and gonadotrophins were given. Furthermore, among group III patients, no pregnancies occurred during the initial IVF-embryo transfer cycles whereas a 23% pregnancy rate (P less than 0.001) was obtained after GnRH agonist therapy. Our results indicate that the combination of GnRH agonists and gonadotrophins is of value in cases of unexplained infertility. Further, larger studies must be performed before the true efficacy of this mode of therapy can be determined in women with unexplained infertility. PMID- 2528571 TI - Occupational dermatitis in food handlers and bakers. AB - Of 1346 patients with suspected contact dermatitis examined in Toronto, 10 bakers and 10 food handlers were found to have occupational contact dermatitis. Although not dissimilar in age, years in the trade, or length of illness, men were significantly overrepresented in the population of bakers (100% vs 40%, p less than 0.05). One baker had occupational asthma related to rye flour. Compared with the bakers, significantly more of the food handlers had allergic contact dermatitis (70% vs 20%, p less than 0.05). In addition to food components, cinnamates and rubber were found to be causes of allergic response. One food handler had contact urticaria caused by shellfish. The standard screening tests, combined with the use of contactants specific to occupational history, yielded a definitive determination of the existence of a contact allergy in our subjects. PMID- 2528573 TI - Contact allergy to corticosteroids: a frequently missed diagnosis? AB - Contact allergy to corticosteroids is more prevalent than previously recognized and often goes undetected. Nineteen patients with corticosteroid contact allergy are presented. Sixteen reacted to tixocortol pivalate and also to other corticosteroids, particularly to hydrocortisone, which could explain exacerbations of eczema in these cases. Tixocortol pivalate may be a useful marker for screening patients for contact sensitivity to several corticosteroids. PMID- 2528572 TI - Contact allergies in patients with familial benign chronic pemphigus (Hailey Hailey disease) AB - To determine whether patients with familial benign chronic pemphigus have an increased risk for the development of contact allergies to topical therapy, we performed epicutaneous tests in 15 patients with this disease. Nine had positive patch test reactions of which seven were allergic to compounds used in local treatments. Allergic reactions in more than one patient were seen to neomycin sulfate (three patients), bacitracin (two), and hydrocortisone-17-butyrate and betamethasone-17-valerate (two). Although no comparable control group was similarly studied, the frequency of sensitization appears to be increased in patients with familial benign chronic pemphigus. PMID- 2528574 TI - Environmental factors affecting plasmin activity in milk. AB - A total of 367 milk samples were collected from 43 individual Holstein cows during 1 yr. Samples were analyzed for plasmin activity, total casein, alpha s casein (alpha s1-casein + alpha s2-casein), beta-casein, kappa-casein, and SCC. Least squares analyses showed that SCC in milk were positively related (r = .62) to plasmin activity. An increase of SCC from 100,000 to 1,300,000/ml was associated with a 2.3-fold increase in plasmin activity (100 vs. 230 x 10(-6) units/ml). Increased plasmin activity was associated with advancing stage of lactation and older cows after appropriate adjustments were made for the effects of milk yield and SCC. Milk samples obtained in fall and winter were higher, but not significantly, in plasmin activity. Plasmin activity was also associated with major casein components and milk pH. Correlations coefficients between plasmin and alpha s-casein, beta-casein, and pH were -.14, -.27, and .19. PMID- 2528575 TI - Adhesive bonding of composites. PMID- 2528576 TI - Spontaneous remission of a fixed drug eruption. PMID- 2528577 TI - Restriction of placental growth in sheep enhances placental metabolism of fetal beta-endorphin-like immunoreactivity. AB - The opioid polypeptide beta-endorphin is present in fetal blood but it is not clear whether its source is the fetus or the placenta. We therefore measured beta endorphin in extracts of fetal femoral arterial and umbilical venous blood plasma in sheep by radioimmunoassay to determine whether the fetus or the placenta is the major source of beta-endorphin in the fetal circulation. Chromatographic analysis of extracts of fetal arterial plasma showed that beta-lipotropin and other precursors of beta-endorphin made only a minor contribution to the immunoreactivity detected. Concentrations of immunoreactive beta-endorphin were higher in the femoral artery than in the umbilical vein in fetal sheep between 113 and 128 days of pregnancy. Therefore the placenta removes beta-endorphin or a closely related polypeptide of fetal origin from the umbilical circulation in sheep at this stage of gestation. Acute hypoxaemia and hypoglycaemia increase the concentrations of immunoassayable beta-endorphin in blood plasma of adult and fetal sheep, but little is known about the effects of chronic hypoxaemia or hypoglycaemia on the circulating levels of beta-endorphin and related polypeptides in the fetus. Therefore we also measured immunoreactive beta endorphin in blood plasma from fetal sheep in which growth retardation in association with restricted placental growth was produced by removal of endometrial caruncles before mating. Intra-uterine growth retardation was accompanied by chronic hypoglycaemia and chronic hypoxaemia in the fetuses. This was not associated with higher concentrations of beta-endorphin-like immunoreactivity in fetal arterial or umbilical venous plasma, but was accompanied by significantly increased placental extraction of fetal immunoreactive beta-endorphin from the umbilical circulation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528578 TI - Blood pressure control and haemodynamic adaptation with the dihydropyridine calcium antagonist isradipine: a controlled study in middle-aged hypertensive men. AB - Twenty-three middle-aged men (59 +/- 2 years) with sustained, essential hypertension (WHO Stage II) and with diastolic blood pressure exceeding 100 mmHg during a run-in placebo month were included in a trial designed to assess the clinical and haemodynamic effects of isradipine, a novel dihydropyridine calcium antagonist. The study was double-blind with a placebo-controlled crossover design. Isradipine as monotherapy was titrated in three, 3-week periods in doses of 2.5, 5 and 7.5 mg twice daily, or as apparently identical placebo capsules. A 3-week placebo wash-out period separated the two phases of the study. Clinical characteristics were followed during each treatment phase and an invasive haemodynamic examination was performed on the last day of the final active or placebo dose. In the haemodynamic investigation, cardiac output was measured using a dye-dilution technique and blood pressure via a catheter in the brachial artery. Plasma renin activity (PRA) was assessed by radio-immunoassay of generated angiotensin I and arterial noradrenaline concentrations using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Baroreceptor sensitivity was calculated from R-R intervals of the ECG and beat-to-beat systolic blood pressure during increasing bolus injections of phenylephrine. During optimal therapy with isradipine (7.5 mg twice daily), highly significant decreases in supine systolic (from 174 +/- 4 to 154 +/- 3 mmHg) and diastolic blood pressures (from 104 +/- 2 to 91 +/- 1 mmHg) were observed. Heart rate was unchanged (79 +/- 3 versus 81 +/- 2 beats/min) during chronic therapy.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528579 TI - Polymeric C3dg primes human B lymphocytes for proliferation induced by anti-IgM. AB - Polymeric C3dg (pC3dg), having an average m.w. of approximately 400,000 and saturating complement receptor type 2 (CR2) on B lymphoblastoid cells at 1 micrograms/ml, was preincubated with tonsillar B cells for 24 h, after which anti IgM was added and proliferation assessed by thymidine incorporation. Preculture of B cells with 0.01 to 1.0 micrograms/ml of polymerized C3dg (pC3dg) caused a dose-dependent enhancement of proliferation and accelerated entry into S phase after addition of anti-IgM. The continued presence of pC3dg during stimulation by anti-IgM was not required. pC3dg alone did not induce proliferation and preculture of B cells with C3dg monomer had no effect on the subsequent response to anti-IgM. The priming effect of pC3dg required at least 6 h and was greatest after 24 h of preculture. Preincubation with pC3dg did not lower the concentration of anti-IgM necessary for induction of proliferation, but did enhance proliferation at all concentrations above this threshold. Augmented proliferation occurred only in B cells of higher density in Percoll gradients, and neither T cells nor monocytes were required. Thus, independent interaction of CR2 with its natural ligand primes the B cell for subsequent stimulation through the Ag receptor, an effect that might synergize with the previously described CR2 function of lowering the threshold for B cell activation when crosslinked to membrane IgM. PMID- 2528580 TI - Accessory cell function of Th2 clones. AB - We have investigated the ability of T helper clones to serve as accessory cells and in the presence of mitogen activate freshly-isolated, splenic T cells. In this type of costimulatory assay, the Th cells that secrete IL-4 but not the Th cells that secrete IL-2 function as AC to induce T cell proliferation in the presence of various T cell mitogens (Con A, anti-CD3 mAb, anti-TCR mAb, and anti Thy-1 mAb). The signal provided by the accessory Th2 cells occurred independently of MHC restriction, and the analysis of dose-response curves showed the involvement of a single stimulator cell. CD4, as well as CD8 expressing splenic T cells were induced to proliferate by the Th2 clones and mitogen, but mAb specific for CD4 or CD8 failed to affect the response. These findings indicate that cloned Th2 cells functioned as accessory cells and induced naive T cells to proliferate in the presence of mitogen. PMID- 2528581 TI - Calcium-dependent killing of immature thymocytes by stimulation via the CD3/T cell receptor complex. AB - Development of tolerance to self Ag occurs during a negative cell selection process in the thymus. This selection process is thought to involve interactions between Ag-specific thymocyte receptors and self Ag presented by the MHC proteins on accessory cells, resulting in deletion of potentially harmful self-reactive precursors. However, the mechanisms underlying this clonal deletion have not been identified. In confirmation of previous findings (C. A. Smith, G. T. Williams, R. Kingston, E. J. Jenkins, and J. J. T. Owen, 1989. Antibodies to CD3/T-cell receptor complex induce death by apoptosis in immature T cells in thymic cultures. Nature 337:181), we have found that an anti-CD3 antibody stimulated DNA fragmentation, characteristic of a suicide mechanism known as apoptosis or programmed cell death (PCD), in suspensions of human thymocytes. Endonuclease activation and cell killing were dependent on an early, sustained increase in cytosolic Ca2+ concentration, most of which was of extracellular origin. Although the magnitude and duration of the Ca2+ increase were similar to those observed in response to Con A, the mitogen did not stimulate DNA fragmentation or cell death. Phorbol ester prevented Ca2+-dependent DNA fragmentation and cell killing in response to anti-CD3 or other agents that stimulated PCD, suggesting that activation of protein kinase C abrogated cell suicide. Disappearance of CD4+CD8+ immature thymocytes was generally observed in response to all agents that stimulated PCD, whereas mature PBL were insensitive to stimulation of PCD. Our results suggest that antibody-mediated stimulation of immature thymocytes via the TCR complex results in Ca2+-dependent, endonuclease-mediated cell killing, depending on the activation status of protein kinase C. PMID- 2528582 TI - An IL-1 inhibitor from human monocytes. Production and characterization of biologic properties. AB - Previous studies have described a 22 kD IL-1 inhibitor in the supernatant of human monocytes cultured on adherent immune complexes (J. Immunol. 134:3868, 1985). The studies reported herein further detail the conditions of production and biological properties of this IL-1 inhibitor. The inhibitor was produced by human monocytes cultured on adherent human IgG with maximal production between 8 and 24 hr. The IL-1 inhibitor was not performed in the cells but required transcription and new protein synthesis. The inhibitor blocked IL-1 augmentation of PHA-induced murine thymocyte proliferation but not IL-2-induced stimulation of CTLL or HT-2 cell lines. In addition, the inhibitor blocked IL-1-stimulated collagenase production from rabbit articular chondrocytes and IL-1-induced PGE2 production from human fibroblasts and synovial cells. The IL-1 inhibitor was not transforming growth factor beta (TGF beta) as determined by: the failure of anti TGF beta antibodies to reduce IL-1 inhibitory activity, the separation of TGF beta from the IL-1 inhibitor by ion exchange chromatography, and the failure of TGF beta to inhibit IL-1-induced PGE2 production from synovial cells. IL-1 and the inhibitor showed no immunological cross-reactivity by Western blot analysis. The inhibitor specifically blocked binding of IL-1 to its receptor on the murine thymoma cell line EL4-6.1. These results indicate that a specific inhibitor of IL 1-induced immune and inflammatory cell responses is produced by monocytes cultured on adherent immune complexes or adherent IgG. This IL-1 inhibitor may be of importance in modulating the effects of IL-1 in the monocyte microenvironment. PMID- 2528583 TI - Accessory signals in murine cytolytic T cell responses. Dual requirement for IL-1 and IL-6. AB - We have examined the nature of the accessory factors required for the development of primary murine CTL in accessory cell-depleted allogeneic mixed lymphocyte cultures. None of the known macrophage-derived factors was active by itself but the combination of IL-1 and IL-6 induced cytolytic responses equivalent to those of unfractionated cultures. Experiments with purified T cell subsets and antibodies blocking the action of IL-2 and IL-4 demonstrated that IL-1 and IL-6 acted directly on CD8+ cells capable of growth factor production. Analysis of the respective roles of IL-1 and IL-6 indicated that IL-6 acts before IL-1 and is capable apparently by itself to induce responsiveness to IL-2. By contrast, production of IL-2 required the additional presence of IL-1. PMID- 2528584 TI - Modulation by antiidiotypic monoclonal antibodies of immune lysis mediated by anti-HLA monoclonal antibodies. AB - The mAb R18-9 recognizes a cross-reacting idiotope outside the Ag-combining site of the syngeneic anti HLA-DQw3 mAb KS13, whereas the mAb R1-38, KO3-34, KO3-256, and KO3-335 recognize spatially close private idiotopes within the Ag-combining site of mAb KS13. All the analyzed Id require the association of the H and L chain of mAb KS13 for their expression. The mAb R1-38 and R18-9 were shown to markedly differ in their ability to modulate immune lysis of target cells mediated by mAb KS13. mAb R18-9 did not affect C-dependent lysis of cultured B lymphoid cells WALK mediated by mAb KS13, but enhanced cell-dependent mAb KS13 mediated lysis. mAb R1-38 inhibited both C and cell-dependent lysis mediated by mAb KS13. The effect was influenced by the incubation conditions. mAb R1-38 completely inhibited lysis when it was preincubated with mAb KS13 before being added to target cells, inhibited it partially when it was added simultaneously with mAb KS13 to target cells and did not affect it when added to target cells which had been preincubated with mAb KS13. Neither mAb R1-38 nor R18-9 in combination with mAb KS13 modulated T cell proliferation induced by allogeneic HLA mismatched lymphocytes. The system we have described may represent a useful in vitro model to investigate the mechanism(s) by which antiidiotypic antibodies may influence the outcome of organs transplanted in recipients with a history of humoral presensitization to donor's HLA Ag. PMID- 2528585 TI - Soluble antigens of IgG receptor Fc gamma RIII in human seminal plasma. AB - Human seminal plasma (SP) has been shown to affect several immunologic reactions in vitro. This might be due in part to the presence of proteins that specifically bind the Fc domain of IgG. By using mAb Leu 11a, Leu 11b, Leu 11c, and 3G8 we showed that the Fc binding of SP is associated with a molecule that antigenically resembles Fc gamma RIII. This molecule manifests specific affinity for solid phase-coupled IgG-Fc, and appears not be be cell membrane-associated. When compared with serum or blood plasma, its highest concentration was found in SP. Western blot analysis of SP performed with mAb Leu 11a, Leu 11b, Leu 11c, and 3G8 showed distinct bands at approximately 70 and 35 kDa, which contrasts with the broad area of electrophoretic mobility reported for membrane-bound Fc gamma RIII. These molecules in SP could influence maternal immune responses to paternal Ag during fertilization and pregnancy. PMID- 2528586 TI - Immunodominant sites of human T cell lymphotropic virus type 1 envelope protein for murine helper T cells. AB - HTLV-I (human T cell lymphotropic virus type 1) is the retrovirus causally related to adult T cell leukemia/lymphoma and is also associated with a neurological disorder, tropical spastic paraparesis, or HTLV-I-associated myelopathy. The development of these two different diseases among HTLV-I-infected individuals may depend in part on differences in their T cell immunity associated with a difference of HLA phenotype. Peptides corresponding to 17 sites in the HTLV-I envelope protein were tested for their antigenicity for lymph node cells from B10.BR, B10.D2, B10.A(5R), and B10.HTT congenic mice, representing four independent MHC haplotypes, immunized with the native envelope protein. Ten of the 17 tested sites were predicted to be amphipathic alpha-helical sites and all of them were found to be antigenic for at least one of the four MHC congenic strains of mice. Three of the 17 sites were amphipathic 3(10)-helical sites and four sites were predicted to be non-helical sites: none of the 3(10)-helical sites were antigenic and only one of four non-predicted sites was found to be immunodominant. Furthermore, three potent immunodominant peptides, V1E1 (342 363), V1E8/SP4a (191-209), and V1E10 (141-156) were also shown to be immunogenic; i.e., these peptides could be used to immunize mice to elicit proliferative responses of lymph node cells to the native HTLV-I envelope protein. Furthermore, these three peptides were able to prime animals for an enhanced antibody response to the native protein. Because this priming followed the same Ir gene control as the proliferative response, it probably reflects the ability of these peptides to prime helper T cells. The localization of immunodominant sites in HTLV-I envelope protein in mice may be useful for finding antigenic and immunogenic sites in humans, for developing a peptide vaccine for the virus, and possibly for aiding in prognosis for the development of different disease manifestations of HTLV-I infection. PMID- 2528587 TI - Murine complement receptor gene family. II. Identification and characterization of the murine homolog (Cr2) to human CR2 and its molecular linkage to Crry. AB - CR2, a 145,000 to 150,000 Mr protein which binds specific breakdown products of C3, has been identified on the surface of both human and murine B cells. In order to understand the evolutionary relatedness of the human and murine proteins, we have used the coding sequences from the human CR2 gene to investigate those homologous sequences of murine Cr2. Human CR2 cDNA sequences were used as probes on a cDNA library derived from BALB/c spleen mRNA to identify cross-reacting cDNA sequences. A number of putative cDNA clones encoding murine Cr2 have been isolated and examined. DNA sequence analysis of these Cr2 cDNA clones indicates that they represent the murine homolog to human CR2. mRNA analysis with these Cr2 cDNA clones has revealed a transcription pattern similar to, but distinct from that seen for CR2. Whereas human CR2 coding sequences identify a single mRNA species of approximately 5 kb from human tonsillar mRNA, the murine counterpart identifies four transcripts from murine spleen of approximately 3, 5, 9 and 11 kb in size. The Cr2 cDNA clones which detect the four forms of spleen mRNA overlap in coding sequences and contain exons mapping to three colinear fragments as defined by EcoRI digestion. This suggests that the 3- 5-, 9-, and 11-kb mRNA forms arise by alternative splicing from a single gene. Use of these murine Cr2 specific cDNA clones to isolate their respective genomic sequences has allowed for the linkage of the 3' end of the Cr2 gene to the 5' end of the Crry gene, the evolutionary homolog to human CR1. PMID- 2528588 TI - Characterization of anti-CD8-resistant cytolytic T lymphocytes induced by multivalent cross-linking of CD8 on precursor cells. AB - The lytic activity of most CD8+ MHC class I allospecific CTL generated in vitro can be inhibited by anti-CD8 antibodies. Such inhibition has led to hypotheses that CD8/class I interactions normally contribute to the triggering of CTL with low or moderate avidity Ag-specific TCR by providing those CTL with auxiliary binding avidity. However, CD8 has also been proposed to play an active signaling role in T cell activation. We have recently reported that multivalent cross linking of CD8 on CTL precursors in MLC does appear to mediate activation signals, and induces the generation of CD8+ MHC class I allospecific CTL whose lytic activity cannot be blocked by anti-CD8 antibodies. In our present study, we have further characterized such anti-CD8 uninhibitable effector cells. These CTL are resistant to blocking of their lytic function by anti-Lyt-3 mAb as well as anti-Lyt-2 mAb, but remain sensitive to blocking by anti-LFA-1 mAb, indicating that they do use non-CD8 cell adhesion molecules during target cell recognition and lysis. As a consequence of mAb-induced multivalent CD8 cross-linking during their generation, anti-CD8 uninhibitable CTL significantly reduce their cell surface expression of CD8, which permits their identification and facilitates their purification from heterogeneous MLC populations. Such anti-CD8 uninhibitable effector cells can be maintained as stable CTL lines, in the absence of anti-CD8 mAb after the initial induction period. The in vitro generation of anti-CD8 uninhibitable CTL, which may be highly enriched for cells bearing high affinity TCR, could represent a new experimental approach to studies of TCR gene usage and repertoire, as well as a potentially important strategy for the deliberate generation of high affinity effector cells for adoptive immunotherapy. PMID- 2528590 TI - A virus-sensitive suppressor cell is involved in the regulation of human allospecific T cell-mediated cytotoxicity. AB - The in vitro generation of allospecific CTL by human PBMC was enhanced 4- to 16 fold by sequential plastic and nylon wool adherence, which depleted the PBMC of macrophages and B cells. The enhanced CTL response was suppressed by adding back irradiated, unfractionated PBMC or adherent cells to the depleted cells. This finding suggests that the enhanced CTL response was not simply a consequence of enrichment of T cells, but was instead due to active suppression by radioresistant cells contained in the adherent fraction. Of note is the finding that, unlike the CTL response, the proliferative response to allostimulation was not affected by the removal of adherent cells. The suppressor function could be abrogated by preincubation of irradiated PBMC with influenza A virus before the coculture with depleted cells. Furthermore, costimulation of unfractionated PBMC with influenza A virus and allogeneic stimulators augmented allospecific CTL activity. Thus, in the adherent fraction of human PBMC, there appears to be a native suppressor population that can be functionally inactivated by virus. This result may account for the clinical observation of increased allograft rejection after certain viral infections. PMID- 2528589 TI - Differential regulation of murine B cell Fc gamma RII expression by CD4+ T helper subsets. AB - The murine B cell FcR for IgG (Fc gamma RII) is a membrane glycoprotein reported to mediate inhibition of B cell activation and differentiation. We show that IL-4 inhibits the enhanced expression of Fc gamma RII by LPS-stimulated B cells. This activity is completely reversed by anti-IL-4 mAb and is specific, in that multiple other lymphokines tested do not exert a similar effect. This effect of IL-4 is apparent by day 1 of culture, although maximal inhibition occurs on day 4 at a concentration of 500 U/ml. The IL-4-induced inhibition of enhanced Fc gamma RII expression by LPS stimulation observed on day 4 of culture is associated with a significant reduction in the steady state level of Fc gamma RII beta gene specific mRNA. IFN-gamma which inhibits many of the effects of IL-4 on B cells, does not reverse the IL-4-induced inhibition of Fc gamma RII membrane expression nor the levels of beta gene-specific mRNA. Fc gamma RII expression is significantly increased in B cells stimulated with antigen-specific, CD4+ T cell clones of the Th1 type (i.e., IL-2 and IFN-gamma-producing). By contrast, three different Th2 clones (i.e., IL-4-producing) fail to stimulate an increase in Fc gamma RII levels. Anti-IL-4 mAb significantly enhanced Fc gamma RII expression by Th2-stimulated B cells indicating that IL-4 was the active, inhibitory, substance produced by the Th2 cells. Supernatants from stimulated Th2 clones inhibited the enhanced expression of Fc gamma RII by LPS-stimulated B cells and this activity was completely reversed by anti-IL-4 mAb. By contrast, supernatants from stimulated Th1 clones further enhanced Fc gamma RII expression by LPS-stimulated B cells. The differential regulation of B cell Fc gamma RII expression by Th subsets may play an important role in the regulation of humoral immunity by altering the sensitivity of B cells to IgG immune complex-mediated inhibition of B cell activation and differentiation in vivo. PMID- 2528591 TI - Synergistic activation of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor production by IL-1 and IL-2 in murine Th1 cells. AB - Recent reports indicate that murine CD4+ Th1-type cloned T cells are insensitive to IL-1 because specific IL-1R are not detected on these cells and IL-1 does not modulate proliferative responses. However, we have determined that Th1 clones can respond to IL-1, because they function synergistically with IL-2 to induce granulocyte-macrophage-CSF secretion. This response to IL-1 plus IL-2 could be induced by IL-1 alpha or IL-1 beta and by membrane-bound IL-1 on macrophages. However, IL-1R could not be detected, and Th1 cells did not respond to IL-4 in the presence or absence of IL-1, as measured by either proliferation or granulocyte-macrophage-CSF production. Therefore, IL-1 functioned as a cofactor in Th1 cells stimulated with IL-2, but not with IL-4. A possible mechanism whereby IL-1 activates Th1 cells is discussed. PMID- 2528592 TI - Laminin promotes mast cell attachment. AB - Tissue mast cells often localize in close proximity to the basement membrane of endothelial cells and increase at sites of inflammation. The reason for this unique tissue distribution is unknown. We report here that both the murine mast cell line PT18 and mouse bone marrow-derived mast cells possess functional receptors for laminin, and exhibit adhesion, spreading and redistribution of histamine-containing granules on a laminin substratum. This adherence is enhanced in the presence of purified IL-3 and can be inhibited by antibodies to laminin and by antibodies to laminin receptors. Northern analysis showed a high level of mRNA for a 32-kDa laminin receptor in PT18 mast cells. Mouse bone marrow-derived cultures initially exhibited a low level of the mRNA expression. However, the expression of the laminin receptor mRNA is induced rapidly within 1 wk of culture with IL-3. Thus, mast cells exhibit functional laminin receptors that may explain the tissue distribution of mast cells and their accumulation at sites of tissue injury. PMID- 2528593 TI - Induction of activation antigens on human natural killer cells mediated through the Fc-gamma receptor. AB - NK cells, defined here as lymphocytes bearing the CD16 Ag found on the NK cell Fc gamma receptor (FcR), are known to enter a proliferative and activated state in response to stimulation with IL-2 as assessed by clonal expansion, short-term DNA synthesis, and de novo expression of lymphocyte-associated activation Ag. We have found that the FcR of NK cells acts as a signaling pathway through which IL-2 dependent activation may be greatly enhanced, allowing for more rapid induction of activation Ag and recruitment of an increased percentage of cells expressing surface markers of cellular activation. FcR-interactive agents, such as solid phase immobilized immune complexes or cross-linked CD16-specific mAb, work synergistically with rIL-2 to elicit a rapid expression of IL2R and transferrin receptors on greater than 50% of purified NK cells as early as day 3 of culture. IL-2 or FcR-interactive stimuli alone were weak or ineffective stimulators by comparison. In contrast to the induction of de novo activation Ag, DNA synthesis was elicited by IL-2 alone, but was not substantially or consistently enhanced by the subsequent addition of FcR-interactive stimuli. PMID- 2528594 TI - Activated endothelial cells resist lymphokine-activated killer cell-mediated injury. Possible role of induced cytokines in limiting capillary leak during IL-2 therapy. AB - We previously demonstrated that IL-2 promotes the adhesion of NK cells to endothelial cells (EC) and that EC are readily lysed by lymphokine-activated killer (LAK) cells in vitro, suggesting that cell mediated endothelial injury may contribute to the capillary leak syndrome observed in patients treated with IL-2. In this investigation, we sought to determine the effects of EC activation on the in vitro susceptibility of EC to LAK cell-mediated cytolysis. Despite increased binding of CD16+ lymphocytes to TNF-activated EC monolayers, prior exposure of EC to any of several IL-2-inducible cytokines including TNF-alpha, IL-1 beta, and IFN-gamma not only failed to render the EC more vulnerable to cytolysis but increased their resistance to LAK cells in 111Indium release cytolysis assays. This decrement in susceptibility to cytolysis resulting from prior exposure to cytokines preceded any detectable increase in HLA class I or II Ag expression. In cold target competition experiments with LAK cell effectors and radiolabeled K562 target cells, TNF-primed EC were no more competitive than unstimulated EC, and in assays with unstimulated PBMC effectors, the addition of unlabeled TNF-activated EC actually increased the cytolysis of the radiolabeled tumor cells. The effects of various cytokines and lymphocyte preparations on EC permeability were also evaluated. In these experiments, saphenous vein EC were cultured on porous filter disks, exposed to cytokines or lymphocytes, and the diffusion of 125I-BSA through the filters was then measured. Exposure to IL-2, IFN-gamma, or TNF-alpha did not increase the diffusion of the BSA through the EC-coated filters, whereas LAK cells markedly increased their permeability. Consistent with the results of the cytolysis assays, pretreatment of the EC with TNF, IL-1, or IFN-gamma diminished the LAK cell-induced increase in BSA diffusion. These results suggest that although circulating IL-2-inducible cytokines such as TNF and IFN-gamma may activate EC in vivo and contribute to lymphocyte margination and lymphopenia, they may not be directly responsible for the IL-2-induced capillary leak syndrome and may actually protect EC from LAK cell-mediated injury. PMID- 2528595 TI - Synthetic retinoids inhibit the antigen presenting properties of epidermal cells in vitro. AB - The clinical efficacy of retinoids in benign and malignant skin diseases involving immune mechanisms suggests that they affect the immunologic functions of the epidermis. However, these effects have yet to be demonstrated. The action of vitamin A (retinol) and the synthetic retinoids, isotretinoin, etretinate, acitretin, and arotinoid-free acid have been studied on the lymphocyte proliferation induced by phytohemagglutinin (PHA), by the mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR), and the mixed epidermal cell-lymphocyte reaction (MECLR). The results for PHA-induced proliferations were highly variable for all the retinoids. However, in MECLR, the synthetic retinoids consistently reduced the proliferation by 20%-30%. This occurred at therapeutic drug concentrations of about 10(-7)M. In MLR, a minor decrease of 10%-15% was only found for higher concentrations (10(-5)M). Retinol induced no effect in either reaction. Further analysis of acitretin on MECLR showed that it reduced lymphocyte proliferation in a dose-dependent fashion. This reduction was combined with a decrease in cytotoxic T-lymphocyte induction (CTL). Addition of 10(-6)M acitretin at various times also revealed that its presence at cell culture initiation was necessary to inhibit proliferation significantly. Furthermore, cell treatments prior to MECLR showed that exposure of epidermal cells to acitretin was essential to produce this inhibition, suggesting that it acts directly on epidermal cells. Consequently, it is suggested that the specific inhibitory effect of synthetic retinoids on lymphocyte activation in MECLR may partly account for their therapeutic action on the skin. PMID- 2528597 TI - Sight-threatening hazards around the house. PMID- 2528596 TI - The hamster flank organ model: is it relevant to man? AB - The critical role that androgens play in the etiology of acne has led to a search for topically active antiandrogens and the frequent use of the flank organ of the golden Syrian hamster as an animal model. 17-alpha-propyltestosterone (17-PT) has been identified as having potent antiandrogenic activity in the hamster model, and this report describes its clinical evaluation. Two double-blind placebo controlled studies comparing 4% 17-PT in 80% alcohol versus vehicle alone were conducted. One study examined 17-PT sebosuppressive activity in 20 subjects. The second study examined its efficacy in 44 subjects having mild to moderate acne. A third study measured in vitro percutaneous absorption of 17-PT through hamster flank and monkey skin, and human face skin in-vivo, using radioactive drug. 17-PT was found to be ineffective in reducing either the sebum excretion rate or the number of inflammatory acne lesions. Failure of 17-PT to show clinical activity was not a result of poor percutaneous absorption. Total absorption in man was 7.7% of the dose and only 1.0% in the hamster. The sebaceous gland of hamster flank organ is apparently more sensitive to antiandrogens than the human sebaceous gland. PMID- 2528598 TI - Prophylactic effects of perioperatively administered neocarzinostatin in renal cell carcinoma. AB - Eighteen patients with stages I to III renal cell carcinoma were treated with Neocarzinostatin before, during and after nephrectomy. The mean cumulative dose of Neocarzinostatin was 18.0 mg. With a minimum follow-up period of 57 months (4.8 years), two of 18 patients developed metastasis and both were dead. Of 17 control patients who were observed for 72 months (6.0 years) or more, ten had recurrent disease and eight of them were dead. The 5-year survival rates were 94% for patients who received Neocarzinostatin and 62% for control patients. There was a statistical difference in survival between these two groups. Neocarzinostatin seems to be effective in the prevention of postoperative recurrence of renal cell carcinoma. PMID- 2528599 TI - [Significance of priming of hosts with virus in the tumor-specific immunotherapy model utilizing virus-reactive helper T cell activity]. AB - A tumor-specific immunotherapy model was established utilizing vaccinia virus (VV) in the consideration of clinical application, in which we assessed the significance of priming of hosts with VV to induce in vivo anti-tumor immunity. C3H/HeN mice were pretreated with cyclophosphamide (Cy) to eliminate non-specific suppressor T cell activity and subsequently inoculated (primed) subcutaneously (s.c.) with 10(7)PFU of VV, leading to augmented induction of VV-reactive helper T (VV-Th) cell activities. Four weeks later, the mice were inoculated intradermally (i.d.) with syngeneic X5563 myeloma cells. Six days after the tumor cell inoculation, 5 X 10(7)PFU of VV was injected into the tumor mass 3 times at 2-day intervals. Seven of 10 mice which had received VV-priming and subsequent VV injection into the tumor mass exhibited complete tumor regression. On the contrary, mice which had received mere intratumoral VV-injection in the absence of VV-priming failed to exhibit appreciable tumor regression. Mice (regressor mice) whose tumor had completely regressed by the above VV-immunotherapy were shown to have acquired systemic anti-tumor immunity which was confirmed by a challenge with syngeneic tumor cells after the tumor regression. In vitro analysis of these immune mice revealed that potent tumor-specific cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) responses were preferentially induced, but with no detectable anti-tumor antibody responses. Such a potent tumor specific immunity was not observed in mice which had received intratumoral VV-injection in the absence of VV-priming.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528600 TI - Experimental local administration of CDDP to in vitro models of gynecological malignant tumors transplanted into nude mice (compared with medroxyprogesterone acetate orally administered). AB - In order to develop a new method of administration for CDDP, in vitro models of malignant tumors in the field of gynecology were prepared using two cell lines maintained by the authors, and fundamental experiments on the topical injection of CDDP were carried out. In experimental topical injection of CDDP in tumor bearing nude mice, the test drug demonstrated an excellent tumor regression effect and an inhibitory effect on tumor growth. In the histopathologic examinations, specific necrosis of tumor cells was observed. It was confirmed that this is a highly safe method, as tissue separation, ulceration, or hemorrhagic lesions attributable to the local administration of CDDP were not observed. In the present study, treatment with oral medroxyprogesterone acetate was also used. At the doses used in this study, however, no inhibitory effect on tumor growth or synergism between medroxyprogesterone acetate and CDDP was observed. Topical injection is an excellent pharmacodynamic method that permits the injection of free platin into the tumor itself or in the boundary area between the tumor and normal tissues, with no loss of the drug, and it is considered a safe and effective mode of local administration. Intra-arterial injection of this drug alone or in conjunction with OK-432 can also be used, even though further studies will be required to determine the optimum dosage and reduce side effects. At present, data are being collected on terminal cancer patients for whom no other therapy is available. In the near future this method of administration is expected to be utilized in the clinical treatment of malignant tumors, be it early tumor or progressive cancer. PMID- 2528601 TI - [Superficial femoral artery thrombosis associated with protein S deficiency and rheumatoid pelvispondylitis]. PMID- 2528602 TI - Selection mechanisms in reading lexically ambiguous words. AB - Readers' eye movements were monitored as they read sentences containing lexically ambiguous words. The ambiguous words were either biased (one strongly dominant interpretation) or nonbiased. Readers' gaze durations were longer on nonbiased than biased words when the disambiguating information followed the target word. In Experiment 1, reading times on the disambiguating word did not differ whether the disambiguation followed the target word immediately or occurred several words later. In Experiment 2, prior disambiguation eliminated the long gaze durations on nonbiased target words but resulted in long gaze durations on biased target words if the context demanded the subordinate meaning. The results indicate that successful integration of one meaning with prior context terminates the search for alternative meanings of that word. This results in selective (single meaning) access when integration of a dominant meaning is fast (due to a biasing context) and identification of a subordinate meaning is slow (a strongly biased ambiguity with a low-frequency meaning). PMID- 2528603 TI - Semantic facilitation of lexical access during sentence processing. AB - In three experiments we investigated the effect of a sentence context on naming time for a target word. Contexts were presented by using a rapid serial visual presentation; subjects named the last word of the sentence. In the first two experiments, facilitation was observed for a fully congruent context containing a subject and verb that were weakly related to the target word. No facilitation was observed when either the subject or verb was replaced with a more neutral word. In the third experiment, the fully congruent contexts were modified either to preserve or to disrupt the original relation between the subject and verb. Facilitation was observed in both conditions. The full pattern of results suggests that a combination of lexical items can prime a target word in the absence of priming by any of the lexical items individually. This combination priming is not dependent upon the overall meaning of the sentence. PMID- 2528604 TI - Reading strategies of fast and slow readers. AB - In three subject-paced experiments we evaluated reading patterns at the word, line, and sentence level for fast and slow readers. A moving-window method was used to collect word reading times for natural texts. At the word level, reading times of word N were influenced by features of word N-1 for fast readers but not for slow readers. The lag effect exhibited by fast readers indicates that they continue to process a word when it is no longer in view, thus limiting the notion of immediate processing. Contrary to our initial expectation that fast readers would process only a single new argument from a sentence, whereas slow readers would process several new arguments, we found that both reader groups adopted a many-argument strategy. However, fast and slow readers differed in terms of the text units (lines vs. sentences) defining the new-argument effects: Fast readers exhibited greater new-argument effects relative to lines, whereas slow readers exhibited greater new-argument effects relative to sentences. Specifically, slow readers integrated the new arguments primarily at the end of the sentence, whereas fast readers did so at line boundaries. These results are discussed in terms of a buffer-and-integrate model of reading comprehension. PMID- 2528605 TI - Time course of item and associative information: implications for global memory models. AB - The time course of availability of associative and item information was examined by using a response signal procedure. Associative information discriminates between a studied pair of words and a pair with words from two different studied pairs. Item information is sufficient to discriminate between a studied pair and a pair not studied. In two experiments, discriminations that require associative information are delayed relative to those based on item information. Two additional experiments discount alternative explanations in terms of the time to encode the test items or task strategies. Examination of the global memory models of Gillund and Shiffrin (1984), Hintzman (1988), and Murdock (1982) shows that the models treat item and associative information inseparably. Modifications to these models which can produce separate contributions for item and associative information do not predict any difference in their availability. Two possible mechanisms for the delayed availability of associative information are considered: the involvement of recall in recognition and the time required to form a compound cue. PMID- 2528606 TI - Orientation specificity in spatial memory: what makes a path different from a map of the path? AB - Three studies investigated the factors that lead spatial information to be stored in an orientation-specific versus orientation-free manner. In Experiment 1, we replicated the findings of Presson and Hazelrigg (1984) that learning paths from a small map versus learning the paths directly from viewing a world leads to different functional characteristics of spatial memory. Whether the route display was presented as the path itself or as a large map of the path did not affect how the information was stored. In Experiment 2, we examined the effects of size of stimulus display, size of world, and scale transformations on how spatial information in maps is stored and available for use in later judgments. In Experiment 3, we examined the effect of size on the orientation specificity of the spatial coding of paths that are viewed directly. The major determinant of whether spatial information was stored and used in an orientation-specific or an orientation-free manner was the size of the display. Small displays were coded in an orientation-specific way, whereas very large displays were coded in a more orientation-free manner. These data support the view that there are distinct spatial representations, one more perceptual and episodic and one more integrated and model-like, that have developed to meet different demands faced by mobile organisms. PMID- 2528608 TI - Prior knowledge: the effects of natural category size on memory for implicitly encoded concepts. AB - Studying a familiar word activates its associates, and these associates affect the likelihood of recalling the studied word in a cued recall task. These experiments examined variables that normally affect memory for the studied word to determine if they have similar effects on memory for the word's associates. Memory for associates was tested by cued recall (Experiments 1-3) or by recognition (Experiments 4-5), with the number and strength of the associates varied in all experiments. In different experiments, test instructions (direct indirect), distractor tasks, lag, and amount of practice were manipulated. Provided that subjects were not distracted prior to test, the probability of recalling associates of the studied word decreased with the number of associates activated and with their strength under all conditions. The strength of the associates but not their number affected recognition. In general, variables that affected recall and recognition of studied words had parallel effects on their associates. PMID- 2528607 TI - A componential model for mental addition. AB - A componential model capable of representing simple and complex forms of mental addition was proposed and then tested by using chronometric techniques. A sample of 23 undergraduate students responded to 800 addition problems in a true-false reaction time paradigm. The 800 problems comprised 200 problems of each of four types: two single-digit addends, one single- and one double-digit addend, two double-digit addends, and three single-digit addends. The results revealed that the columnwise product of addends, a structural variable consistent with a memory network retrieval process, was the best predictor of mental addition for each of the four types of problem. Importantly, the componential model allowed estimation of effects of several other structural variables, e.g., carrying to the next column and speed of encoding of digits. High levels of explained variance verified the power of the model to represent the reaction time data, and the stability of estimates across types of problem implied consistent component use by subjects. Implications for research on mental addition are discussed. PMID- 2528609 TI - Recognition memory and the mere exposure effect. AB - Repeated exposure to novel stimuli tends to make the stimuli better liked. Examined here is the relation between this increment in liking and recognition of the stimuli. An attempt was made to replicate findings taken as evidence that liking is used as a basis for inferring prior exposure and thus for making recognition decisions (e.g., Matlin, 1971; Moreland & Zajonc, 1977). The claim was not supported. Although in each of five experiments liking and recognition were positively correlated, liking was less sensitive to prior exposure than was recognition. Moreover, statistical analyses suggested that if liking and recognition were causally related, recognition mediated liking rather than the other way around. PMID- 2528610 TI - [Long term care and home health care]. PMID- 2528612 TI - Morphological defects in oraJK84 photoreceptors caused by mutation in R1-6 opsin gene of Drosophila. AB - The Drosophila mutant, oraJK84, lacks rhabdomeres in the major (R1-6) class of photoreceptors because these rhabdomeres rapidly degenerate in young flies. Genetic analysis reveals that oraJK84 actually contains two mutations (a ninaE and an ort allele) that affect the visual process. The mutation in ort appears to have no effect on photoreceptor structure. The other mutation occurs within the ninaE gene, which encodes the species of rhodopsin found in the R1-6 class of photoreceptors. Our analysis shows that this mutation is responsible for R1-6 rhabdomere degeneration in oraJK84 mutants. We also examined a ninaE mutant, denoted ninaEo117, that produces no ninaE transcript. The morphological phenotype observed in ninaEo117 is similar to that seen in oraJK84 mutants. We conclude that rhodopsin plays a vital role in maintaining photoreceptor structure in Drosophila. PMID- 2528611 TI - Chronic toxic encephalopathy among house painters with disability pension. AB - Among a group of 14 painters accorded a disability pension, 11 showed signs and symptoms of slight encephalopathy. Five of these 11 painters previously had been pensioned with a diagnosis of musculoskeletal disease, while the encephalopathy was unrecorded in the disability pension records. The combined effect of the two diseases may have caused the disability. We considered occupational solvent exposure the most probable cause of the encephalopathy in four of these five painters. This study indicates that case-referent studies based on diagnoses from disability pension registers may lead to underestimation of the risk of toxic encephalopathy. PMID- 2528613 TI - In situ localization of T lymphocyte subsets in human paracoccidioidomycosis. AB - Immunohistochemical techniques using monoclonal antibodies to T lymphocyte subsets were used to characterize granulomas caused by Paracoccidioides brasiliensis. Punch biopsies of skin or mucosa from eight patients and of lymph nodes from two patients with disseminated paracoccidioidomycosis were studied. The T lymphocytes were distributed either in a localized pattern related to epithelioid granulomas or in a diffuse arrangement, predominantly around the vessels. In the granulomas, T cells formed a peripheral mantle surrounding central aggregates of macrophages. The majority of lymphocytes were T-helper cells with few suppressor cells. In contrast, patients presented with a decreased number of peripheral T-helper lymphocytes and a corresponding decrease in helper suppressor cell ratios. There was no clear-cut relationship between tissue helper suppressor cell ratios and the level of cellular immunodepression of the patients. The lowest P. brasiliensis antibody titers were detected in patients with the highest tissue helper-suppressor cell ratios. The distribution pattern of T lymphocytes in P. brasiliensis granulomas, with a predominance of helper phenotype, suggests that these cells are actively involved in the disease process. PMID- 2528614 TI - Acne. PMID- 2528615 TI - Inhibitory effects of rabbit antisera on mitogenic activity of Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans lipopolysaccharide. AB - Lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) were isolated from Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans strains ATCC 29523 (serotype a), Y4 (b), and NCTC 9710 (c) by the hot phenol-water procedure. Y4 lipid A was obtained by the hydrolysis of Y4 LPS in 1% acetic acid. All the LPS preparations and Y4 lipid A were mitogenic for C3H/HeN mouse spleen cells, but not for C3H/HeJ mouse spleen cells. Immunoglobulin preparations partially purified by ammonium sulfate precipitation at 33% saturation from rabbit antisera against Y4 whole cells inhibited the mitogenic response of C3H/HeN mouse spleen cells to LPSs from all the strains of A. actinomycetemcomitans and Y4 lipid A. Anti-Y4 LPS immunoglobulin preparation inhibited the mitogenic activity of Y4 LPS and Y4 lipid A. Furthermore, anti-Y4 whole cell Fab fragments inhibited the mitogenic activity of both Y4 LPS and Y4 lipid A. These results suggest that antibodies against A. actinomycetemcomitans LPS may modify immune responses of lymphocytes to this organism at periodontal sites. PMID- 2528616 TI - Altered distribution of type I collagen mRNA in periodontal disease. AB - Earlier studies on collagen metabolism in the periodontium have suggested that periodontal disease is associated with reduced amounts of type I collagen in the pocket walls, and with an overall increase in collagen synthesis. In this study we analyzed gingival biopsies of patients suffering from adult type chronic periodontal disease by in situ hybridization, which permitted localization of fibroblasts containing different amounts of proa(I) collagen mRNA. The results showed that expression of type I collagen mRNA is reduced in the vicinity of periodontal pockets and dental plaque. Deeper in the connective tissue, high levels of proa(I) collagen mRNA were observed particularly around inflammatory cell infiltrates which may contribute to the fibrotic reaction observed. In all areas studied the levels of type I collagen mRNA in periodontal fibroblasts varied considerably, supporting previous views about their heterogeneity. PMID- 2528617 TI - Effects of atelocollagen on the wound healing reaction following palatal gingivectomy in rats. AB - Collagen membrane preparations have been manufactured with the aim of enhancing wound healing following periodontal surgery. After cross-linking by various processing methods (with ultraviolet radiation or hexamethylenediisocyanate) and to various extents, atelocollagen membranes were applied into dissection sites within palatal gingival tissue. Applied atelocollagen was histopathologically compared with applied lyophilized porcine dermis (LPD) and controls in rats, with regard to the time course of healing. The atelocollagen-applied group showed more satisfactory regeneration of the epithelium and connective tissue in an artificially created gingival defect than did the control group or the LPD applied group. Epithelial downgrowth along the root surface was significantly suppressed by the use of atelocollagen. In addition, the post-operative inflammatory reaction and foreign body giant cell reaction subsided rapidly after surgery in the atelocollgen-applied group. Our results show that the use of atelocollagen membrane in periodontal wounds should be the method of choice. PMID- 2528618 TI - Heterogeneity of virulence among strains of Bacteroides gingivalis. AB - The ability of fresh isolates of B. gingivalis to establish abscesses in the mouse model was studied by comparing them with established laboratory strains of B. gingivalis. Eight fresh isolates obtained from plaque associated with periodontal disease and grown under similar conditions as established strains were injected subcutaneously on the back of the mouse. All of these strains produced secondary lesions on the abdomen. Septicemia was associated with seven of the strains. Two commonly used laboratory strains, W50 and W83, also produced secondary lesions and septicemia. Five other laboratory strains produced only localized abscesses. On histologic examination, the strains that produced disseminated disease showed invasion of connective disease by individual bacteria that were not in clumps. The strains that produced localized abscesses were characterized by growing in colonies or clumps in the abscess cavity. Four synthetic enzyme substrates were examined to determine whether the differences between invasive and non-invasive strains were due to differences in proteolytic enzyme production. No differences in enzyme production could be demonstrated with the selected substrates. PMID- 2528619 TI - Synthesis of antibody specific for nonoral antigen in the gingiva of periodontitis patients. PMID- 2528620 TI - Long junctional epithelium produced by application of bacterial protease in rats. AB - In the present study, the effect of bacterial protease on the periodontal tissues in rats was investigated histologically and histometrically. In the control group, 0.03 ml distilled water was applied to the lingual marginal gingiva of the mandibular incisor while, in the experimental group, 0.03 ml bacterial protease (distilled water with 300 units, Sigma type XIV) was applied to the same area. Both groups were treated once a day for 1, 3, 6, 9, 15 and 21 d. Histologically, the junctional epithelium in the experimental group showed a marked apical proliferation along the tooth surface, and the gingival connective tissue displayed also a slight inflammatory cell infiltration subepithelially. The remaining periodontal tissues were almost similar to those of the control group. Histometrically, the length of the junctional epithelium between the base of the gingival crevice and the most apical portion of the junctional epithelium in the experimental group at 9, 15 and 21 d were significantly greater (p less than 0.01) than those of the control group, respectively. PMID- 2528621 TI - Good's L-statistic--rebuttal. PMID- 2528622 TI - Polyclonal B-cell activation in periodontitis. AB - The evidence that periodontitis-associated bacteria contain potent PBA factors is very strong. Clearly, antibodies directed against non-oral antigens are produced in the inflamed periodontal lesion, and PBA appears to contribute to that production. It is also clear that B cells and plasma cells are the major cell types in the periodontal lesion. Furthermore, alterations in the regulation of B cell responses to PBA factors are associated with severe periodontal disease. However, evidence demonstrating that activated B cells and plasma cells are directly involved in the pathogenic mechanisms leading to destruction of the periodontal support is still circumstantial. Polyclonal B-cell activation and potential pathways by which PBA-stimulated cells could be involved in periodontal destruction remain largely hypothetical. It appears that IL-1 is an important osteoclast-activating agent, and that LPS, which is a potent PBA factor in many systems, can elicit IL-1 production by B cells as well as by the monocyte/macrophage lineage. Recent data indicating that IL-1 is produced by numerous malignant B-cell lines lend support for the idea that B-cell IL-1 could be important in bone resorption. It is also likely that polyclonal activation may lead to production of autoantibody such as anti-type I and anti-type III collagens, and the destruction of self tissues through ADCC reactions, immune complex formation, and complement activation. Further research is needed to determine how the B cell/plasma cell may participate in tissue injury in periodontitis, and how the B-cell response to PBA factors is regulated. PMID- 2528624 TI - Collagen membranes prevent apical migration of epithelium and support new connective tissue attachment during periodontal wound healing in dogs. AB - The capacity of collagen membranes to prevent the apical migration of epithelium and to support new connective tissue attachment was assessed in experimental periodontal defects in dogs. Experimental periodontal defects were produced in 8 mongrel dogs by removing the alveolar bone and the periodontal ligament over the most coronal 5 mm of the labial aspect of the maxillary canines. Experimental defects associated with the right canine and its surrounding bone were covered by collagen membranes prepared by air drying gels of rat type I fibrillar collagen. Flaps were repositioned and sutured. The contralateral control defects were sham operated without using collagen membranes. Animals were killed, 10 and 30 days after surgery, 4 at each time point. The experimental and control sites were processed for histologic and histomorphometric evaluation. At 10 d, the average distance between the apical margin of the epithelium and the apical level of the defect (EA) sites was 3.20 +/- 0.55 mm for the experimental sites and 0.73 +/- 0.18 mm for the controls. The experimental root surfaces apical to the epithelium and the collagen membranes were covered by connective tissue cells. At 30 d, the EA for experimental and control sites were 2.55 +/- 0.36 mm and 0.47 +/- 0.30 mm, respectively. In the experimental sites healing by long junctional epithelium was observed in the coronal 40% of apico-occlusal dimension of the defect and new connective tissue attachment with inserting fibers in the apical 55% of the defect length. No new bone formation was observed. In the control sites, pocket formation was found in the most coronal one-third of the defect.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528623 TI - Interleukin-2 stimulates osteoclastic activity: increased acid production and radioactive calcium release. AB - Recombinant human interleukin-2 (IL-2) was studied to determine effects on acid production by individual osteoclasts in situ on mouse calvarial bones. This analysis was performed using a microspectrofluorimetric technique to quantify acid production in individual cells. Radioactive calcium release was determined using calvarial bones in a standard tissue culture system. This allowed us to correlate changes in acid production with a measure of bone resorption. IL-2 stimulated acid production and bone resorbing activity. Both effects were inhibited by calcitonin. No stimulation of bone resorption occurred when IL-2 containing test media was incubated with a specific anti-IL-2 antibody and ultrafiltered. Our data demonstrated a correlation between acid production and bone resorbing activity in mouse calvaria exposed to parathyroid hormone (PTH). The data obtained from cultured mouse calvaria exposed to IL-2 demonstrated similar stimulatory effects to those seen during PTH exposure. These data suggest that calvaria exposed to IL-2 in vitro have increased osteoclastic acid production corresponding with increased bone resorption. PMID- 2528625 TI - Transition dynamics in experimental gingivitis in humans. AB - This study was conducted in order to investigate the dynamics of the gingival inflammatory status during periods of plaque accumulation and thorough oral hygiene. After a period of prophylaxis, 42 volunteers were asked to abstain from all oral hygiene measures for 2 weeks, whereafter oral hygiene was reinstituted. In the absence of oral hygiene, plaque was found at virtually all sites after 7 days and the number of sites with gingivitis increased simultaneously. A reduction in gingival inflammation occurred subsequent to plaque removal. During phases of both plaque accumulation and thorough oral hygiene, sites were found to convert from non-inflamed to inflamed status concurrently, as in the reverse direction. No association between plaque and gingivitis was revealed. The gingival status of a single site was a poor predictor of its status on the subsequent occasion. The proportion of inflamed sites converting to non-inflamed status was greater than the proportion of non-inflamed sites converting to inflamed status at any time. The estimated incidence rate remained fairly constant during both the plaque accumulation phase and the oral hygiene phase, whereas the estimated recovery rate was considerable lower during the plaque accumulation phase compared to oral hygiene phase. The clinical appearance is the outcome of the dynamics between these rates. The steady-state prevalences derived from the estimated "incidence" and "recovery" rates were quite similar to the actual findings after 14 d of plaque accumulation and the subsequent 10 d of thorough oral hygiene. PMID- 2528626 TI - A stochastic model for periodontal breakdown. AB - This paper considers a possible explanation for the occurrence of periodontal breakdown in bursts and remissions. We show that such bursts and remissions, apart from being the result of major biological events, can also be generated by a stationary process of Brownian motion. PMID- 2528627 TI - Inhibitory effect of He-Ne laser on dental plaque deposition in hamsters. PMID- 2528628 TI - Effects on wound healing of hydroxyapatite-collagen complex implants in periodontal osseous defects in the dog. PMID- 2528629 TI - The use of 0.2% chlorhexidine spray as an adjunct to oral hygiene and gingival health in physically and mentally handicapped adults. AB - Chlorhexidine has been used as an aid to or replacement for oral hygiene measures in special needs groups such as the handicapped. Previous studies have indicated that spray delivery of chlorhexidine is both effective and acceptable. This study evaluated twice daily use of a 0.2% chlorhexidine spray as an adjunct to toothbrushing in a group of physically and mentally handicapped adults attending a day training center. The study was a double-blind, placebo controlled, cross over design involving two 31 days regimens separated by 30 days. Plaque, bleeding on probing, and pocketing were measured at the beginning and end of each regimen. There were clinically and statistically significantly lower plaque and bleeding scores at the end of the chlorhexidine compared to the placebo period. Pocketing was also significantly less after chlorhexidine, although in clinical terms the difference was small. The apparent acceptability and effectiveness of the regimen suggests that small doses of chlorhexidine delivered by sprays may be of considerable value as an aid to oral hygiene in handicapped individuals. PMID- 2528630 TI - Combination of the thromboxane receptor antagonist, sulotroban (BM 13.177; SK&F 95587), with streptokinase: demonstration of thrombolytic synergy. AB - We examined the ability of the prostaglandin endoperoxide/thromboxane A2 antagonist, sulotroban (BM 13.177; SK&F 95587) to enhance the thrombolytic efficacy of a minimally effective thrombolytic dose of streptokinase. A critical stenosis sufficient to just abolish the hyperemic response to a 20-sec total occlusion was placed on the left circumflex coronary artery of anesthetized open chest dogs using an adjustable screw occluder clamp. Thrombi were formed by applying a 150 microA anodal current to a wire placed within the lumen of the left circumflex just proximal to the screw occluder clamp. After thrombus formation, animals were given either streptokinase (20,000 I.U. bolus + 2,000 I.U./min x 180 min, N = 10), streptokinase + sulotroban (5 mg/kg bolus + 5 mg/kg/hr, N = 10), streptokinase + heparin (300 I.U./kg bolus + 100 I.U./kg/hr, N = 9) or streptokinase + heparin + sulotroban (N = 9). Plasma thromboxane A2 level (as measured by the metabolite, thromboxane B2) was not significantly reduced by any treatment, whereas the dose of sulotroban used completely abolished U46619 induced ex vivo platelet aggregation. Of 10 animals receiving streptokinase alone, only 1 reperfused at 55 min after the start of the streptokinase infusion. Conversely, 9 of 10 animals receiving streptokinase + sulotroban reperfused at 79.4 +/- 10.5 min poststreptokinase (P less than .05). When animals were treated with heparin before streptokinase administration, 8 of 9 animals receiving the streptokinase + heparin combination reperfused in an average of 66.8 +/- 8.6 min after the start of streptokinase infusion.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528631 TI - Human erythroleukemia cells express functional thromboxane A2/prostaglandin H2 receptors. AB - The human erythroleukemia (HEL) cell line is a cultured hematopoietic cell line reported to express platelet membrane glycoproteins and alpha-2 adrenergic receptors. The present studies were designed to determine if functional thromboxane A2 (TXA2)/prostaglandin H2 (PGH2) receptors exist in HEL cells. Radioligand binding assays were performed using [125I]PTA-OH, a TXA2/PGH2 receptor antagonist. Scatchard analysis revealed one class of binding sites for 1 PTA-OH with a Kd = 122 +/- 18 nM and maximum binding = 1.7 +/- 0.3 x 10(5) sites/cell. Competition for [125I]PTA-OH binding with the TXA2/PGH2 receptor agonists SQ26655 and U46619 revealed one class of binding sites for SQ26655 with a Kd = 17 nM and two classes of binding sites for for U46619 with a Kd = 45 nM for the high-affinity site and a Kd = 450 nM for the low-affinity site. Competition for [125I]PTA-OH by the steroisomeric TXA2/PGH2 receptor antagonists L657925 and L657926 revealed two classes of binding sites for the more potent L657925 with a Kd = 8 nM for the high-affinity site and a Kd = 400 nM for the low affinity site whereas L657926 bound to one class of sites with a Kd = 380 nM. Stimulation of the TXA2/PGH2 receptor by SQ26655 and U46619 resulted in concentration-dependent increases in [Ca++], as measured by FURA-2 fluorescence, with EC50 values of 28 +/- 2 and 149 +/- 32 nM, respectively. I-PTA-OH, L657925 and L657926 antagonized this response to U46619 with IC50 values similar in rank potency to that seen in the binding studies.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528633 TI - [Compensation for occupational asthma. Practical aspects]. AB - The compensation of occupational asthma is based on the presumptive evidence of the cause. This process is both simpler and faster than in case law. In practice however, difficulties can arise, delaying payment of compensation. The main causes of these difficulties and means to overcome them are discussed here. PMID- 2528634 TI - The origins of depressed mood in rheumatoid arthritis. AB - Most studies that have considered depressed mood in patients with rheumatoid arthritis have failed to analyze the relative contribution of psychological, social and disease state variables. Using multivariate statistical analyses we identified the role played by demographic, disease related, disability and social variables. Together these variables accounted for 44% of the variation in depressed mood. Demographic factors, disability measures, disease duration, social isolation and economic deprivation all made significant contributions to the explanation of depressed mood. The results of our study underline the importance of examining a wide range of factors in order to consider their relative influence on psychological state. PMID- 2528632 TI - Specificities of afferents reinnervating cat muscle spindles after nerve section. AB - 1. We have made quantitative assessments of the sensory reinnervation and recovery of peroneus brevis muscle spindles following section and epineurial repair of the common peroneal nerve. After 6-50 weeks recovery, single-unit, dorsal-root recordings were made of the responses to ramp-and-hold or sinusoidal stretch of the reinnervated spindles, which were subsequently examined in teased, silver preparations. 2. Assessments of recovery used data obtained from cross union experiments in which foreign afferents (including Ib) were given the opportunity of reinnervating spindles in the absence of their native (Ia, spindle II) afferents; and from an examination of tenuissimus spindles reinnervated by Ia and spindle II afferents in the absence of Ib afferents. These studies revealed: (i) that regenerating Ib afferents can terminate in sites originally occupied by the endings of Ia or spindle II afferents, and respond to stretch like normal Ia and spindle II afferents; (ii) that Ib and spindle II afferents reinnervating spindles are histologically identical apart from diameter range; and (iii) that some cutaneous afferents can reinnervate spindles and give highly abnormal, phasic stretch responses. 3. Recovery of afferents reinnervating spindles was marked by increases in conduction velocity and proportions firing tonically, but their firing rates at the three phases of ramp-and-hold stretch were considerably lower than normal and showed no tendency to increase. 4. Some relatively fast afferents that gave spindle II-type responses were identified as Ib afferents reinnervating secondary-ending sites; conversely, some relatively slow afferents that gave Ia-type responses were identified as spindle II afferents reinnervating primary-ending sites. 5. The estimated loss of spindle afferents from tenuissimus after nerve section (52% Ia, 49% spindle II) was considerably less than the estimated loss of these afferents from peroneus brevis after section of the common peroneal nerve (79% Ia, 86% spindle II). The proportion of spindles in tenuissimus reinnervated by free-ending afferents was also much lower (22%) than in peroneus brevis (73%). These differences are partly attributed to the greater size and degree of afferent complexity of the common peroneal nerve. 6. Similar proportions of spindles in peroneus brevis were reinnervated by Ia and Ib afferents after both partial (27% Ia, 20% Ib) and complete (21% Ia, 20% Ib) section of the common peroneal nerve.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2528635 TI - Myocardial involvement in Churg-Strauss syndrome: the role of endomyocardial biopsy. AB - A Chinese adult with Churg-Strauss syndrome with prominent cardiac involvement is described. The myocardial impairment initially showed good response to corticosteroid and cyclophosphamide. However, the cardiac status deteriorated later despite the absence of disease activity elsewhere. Endomyocardial biopsy was performed to determine the possibility of isolated myocardial relapse in case additional immunosuppression would be beneficial. Histology of the endomyocardial biopsy revealed myocardial fibrosis. Since cardiac involvement is the major cause of mortality in this condition and delayed treatment can lead to intractable cardiac failure, we advocate that endomyocardial biopsy should be performed more liberally and possibly serially to assess the disease activity in the myocardium. Immunosuppression may then be adjusted. To our knowledge, the occurrence of Churg Strauss syndrome in Chinese has not been reported in the English literature. PMID- 2528636 TI - Plasma oxypurinol concentration in a patient with allopurinol hypersensitivity. AB - Monitoring of plasma oxypurinol has been proposed to prevent allopurinol side effects. An 89-year-old man developed a severe desquamative rash, fever, eosinophilia, hepatocellular injury and renal failure after allopurinol administration. Eight hours after the last dose, plasma allopurinol was undetectable and plasma oxypurinol was 50 mumol/l. This is the first case in which severe allopurinol hypersensitivity occurred despite a simultaneous plasma oxypurinol concentration within recommended levels (below 100 mumol/l). PMID- 2528637 TI - Large schwannoma of the psoas: a rare but treatable cause of chronic low back pain. PMID- 2528638 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor: implications in congestive heart failure and hypertension. AB - The physiological actions of the atrial peptide system are discussed in relation to its potential role in the aetiology and treatment of hypertension and congestive heart failure (CHF). Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) exerts marked natriuretic, diuretic and vasodilatory effects and has been demonstrated to reduce blood pressure by several mechanisms, actions which serve to protect the central circulation against volume and pressure overload. It was initially believed that CHF may relate to a deficiency of ANF, but studies of experimentally induced and human CHF have shown elevated levels of circulating ANF, reflecting a compensatory increase in response to reduced cardiac output. In contrast, plasma levels of ANF in hypertension not complicated by CHF are normal and it might be speculated that hypertension reflects an attenuated ANF response to increase cardiac volume and/or pressure. ANF may play an important role in these cardiovascular disease states and, with the availability of synthetic ANF analogues, may also have therapeutic potential. PMID- 2528639 TI - The effect of calcium antagonists on atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) release from the rat heart during rapid cardiac pacing. AB - The diuresis associated with rapid atrial rhythms is a well recognized clinical entity (Wood, 1963). Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) levels are elevated during rapid atrial rhythms (Hirata et al., 1987), including during rapid atrial pacing (Rankin et al., 1986; Schiebinger and Linden 1986; Walsh et al., 1987), and may contribute to the associated diuresis. Calcium channel antagonists are often used to treat atrial tachycardias but the effect this may have on ANP secretion and subsequent compensatory responses, such as a diuresis, is unknown. Reported here are experiments demonstrating that the increase in ANP secretion that accompanies rapid atrial pacing of the isolated perfused rat heart is abolished by calcium channel antagonists. This effect is not limited to a single class of calcium channel antagonists and could be demonstrated with Verapamil and Nifedipine. Although extrapolation to the in vivo situation should always be done with care, the results reported here contribute towards clarifying the effect of the calcium channel antagonists on the ANP response to rapid heart rates. PMID- 2528640 TI - Fatty acid regulation of glucose metabolism in the intact beating rat heart assessed by carbon-13 NMR spectroscopy: the critical role of pyruvate dehydrogenase. AB - Although the myocardium is capable of utilizing both glucose and fatty acid substrates, glucose metabolism is inhibited in the presence of fatty acid during normal perfusion conditions. Fatty acid regulation of glucose utilization in intact beating rat hearts was studied with 13C-enriched substrates and 13C and 31P NMR spectroscopy at 8.5 T. During [1-13C]glucose and insulin perfusion, the 13C appeared in alanine, lactate and the glutamate isotopomers, indicating glycolytic flux through pyruvate and glucose-supported tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle oxidation, respectively. Following the addition of hexanoic acid, 1 mM, [1 13C]glucose metabolism proceeded through the hexokinase and phosphofructokinase reactions, as evidenced by continued production of [3-13C]alanine and [3 13C]lactate, but was completely inhibited at the pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) reaction as evidenced by a lack of appearance of the 13C label in the glutamate isotopomers. This inhibition of PDH was associated with increased PCr/ATP levels and was readily reversed by removal of hexanoic acid. Addition of dichloroacetate, 5 mM, which increases the active form of PDH, to fatty acid and glucose containing perfusate reinstituted carbon flux through the PDH reaction, indicating that the mechanism of fatty acid cessation of PDH flux is by reversible inactivation of the PDH enzyme complex. Thus the point of inhibition and mechanism of action of fatty acid modulation of glucose metabolism can be continuously and non-destructively studied in the intact beating heart with 13C and 31P NMR and is primarily attributable, in this model, to reversible PDH enzyme inactivation. PMID- 2528641 TI - Sympathetic nerves modify mitochondrial and capillary growth in normotensive and hypertensive rats. AB - We tested the hypothesis that sympathetic nerves influence cardiocyte organelle volumes and capillarity in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) with long standing hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy. SHR and their normotensive, Wistar Kyoto (WKY), controls were treated with 6-hydroxydopamine from birth to prevent the establishment of the sympathetic nervous system. To determine whether beta adrenergic receptors were the major pathway of sympathetic influence, another group of SHR and WKY were chronically treated from weaning with the beta 1 adrenergic antagonist, metoprolol. In SHR sympathectomy failed to alter, while metoprolol attenuated, hypertension. Stereological analyses of perfuse-fixed hearts showed that in both SHR and WKY mitochondria/myofibrils volume ratio was increased by long-term sympathectomy, mainly by limiting mitochondrial volume density, even though this intervention failed to alter left ventricular mass. In contrast, long-term beta 1 blockade attenuated hypertrophy in SHR but had no effect on mitochondria/myofibrils volume ratio. Capillary numerical density was increased significantly in sympathectomized SHR and WKY. However, despite this increase, capillary volume density was similar in control and sympathectomized rats, since capillary diameter was less in the latter. Metoprolol-treated SHR showed a trend toward higher capillary numerical densities consistent with their attenuation of hypertrophy. These findings indicate that sympathetic nerves, either directly or indirectly, inhibit cardiocyte mitochondrial growth and capillary proliferation during both normal and pressure overload induced cardiac enlargement. PMID- 2528642 TI - Mechanical properties of papillary muscle in cardiac failure: importance of pathogenesis and of ventricle of origin. AB - In an attempt to better understand what causes impairment of failing myocardium, the mechanical characteristics of papillary muscles from three different models of congestive heart failure were compared at varying stages of hypertrophy and failure: adriamycin cardiotoxic rabbit, cardiomyopathic hamster and infra-renal aorto-caval shunted dog. Except for right ventricular muscles from the shunted dogs, in all groups there was a significant decrease in total twitch tension, +dT/dt, -dT/dt, Vmax, +dL/dt, and -dL/dt. However, there were major differences in twitch duration between the three models with time to attain peak tension and peak shortening and time to attain half tension decline decreasing in right ventricular papillary muscles from adriamycin rabbits but increasing in right ventricular papillary muscles from shunted dogs and no change occurring in left ventricular papillary muscles from cardiomyopathic hamsters or shunted dogs. Load dependence as assessed by time to relaxation index for 30% afterload contractions was decreased in all but right ventricular muscles from shunted dogs. These results indicate that despite some common characteristics, major differences exist between papillary muscles from different models of congestive heart failure depending on the pathophysiological process involved and the ventricle of origin. PMID- 2528643 TI - Oncogene links seen to heart disease, cholesterol. PMID- 2528645 TI - Changes in peripheral hemodynamics after percutaneous transluminal angioplasty. AB - We measured ankle/arm pressure indexes and blood flow rates before and after performing percutaneous transluminal angioplasty in 36 extremities. Flow rates through the leg were determined with a magnetic resonance blood flow scanner. All patients had claudication; one had gangrene, another had an ulcer, and two complained of rest pain. The median age was 65 years, and 72% were men. There were 25 dilations of the iliac artery, 12 of the superficial femoral artery, and eight of the popliteal arteries; nine patients had two arterial segments dilated. Nineteen legs had ankle/arm pressure indexes before percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of less than 0.80 (range 0.51 to 0.75); their flow rates averaged 40 +/- 20 (SD) ml/min. After percutaneous transluminal angioplasty flow and pressure increased significantly in 14 of these 19 legs, and three had no hemodynamic improvement; in one leg only pressure and in another only flow increased significantly. The remaining 17 extremities had ankle/arm pressure indexes before percutaneous transluminal angioplasty ranging from 0.81 to 1.09; their flow rates averaged 53 +/- 27 (SD) ml/min. Abnormal flow rates were detected in 15 of these 17 extremities. With near-normal ankle/arm pressure indexes no significant increase in pressure was anticipated. Flow rates augmented to 75 +/- 28 (SD) ml/min after percutaneous transluminal angioplasty; a significant increase in flow was noted in 12 legs (71%). For patients with ankle/arm indexes before percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of less than 0.80, either pressure or flow measurements should corroborate the benefits of the operation, whereas if the ankle arm index is greater than 0.80, flow measurements are most likely to substantiate changes in peripheral hemodynamics. PMID- 2528644 TI - Both excision and replication of cloned autonomous parvovirus DNA require the NS1 (rep) protein. AB - When a bacterial plasmid containing the entire genome of LuIII virus except for the terminal 18 nucleotides from the right end is transfected into HeLa cells, the viral DNA is rescued and replicated, with production of infectious virus. This experimental system was used to examine the viral proteins and cis elements required for the excision and replication of viral DNA. The deletion of the entire NS1 gene provided a viral genome that was excised from the plasmid and replicated only when an NS1 gene was provided in trans. A frameshift mutation in the NS2 intron that truncates NS1 prevented excision and replication. Deletion of the left-end terminal inverted repeat or the right-end inverted repeat prevented excision of viral DNA from that end but not from the wild-type terminus. The viral terminus excised from the plasmid was protected from a processive degradation process, which began on the vector portion of the plasmid. The inhibitor of DNA polymerases alpha and delta, aphidicolin, blocked the excision reaction. PMID- 2528646 TI - Effect of oxitropium bromide (Ba253) on increased airway resistance induced by various agonists and antigen in the guinea pig. AB - Effects of oxitropium bromide (Ba253), which was administered by inhalation, on the resting and stimulus-induced airway resistance were examined in the artificially ventilated guinea pig and compared with those of ipratropium bromide (Sch1000), atropine and isoproterenol. Results obtained were as follows: 1) Ba253 as well as other reference compounds hardly affected the resting resistance. 2) Ba253 strongly and persistently inhibited the acetylcholine (ACh)-induced resistance. Sch1000 caused a similar but relatively weaker inhibition than Ba253. Either atropine or isoproterenol caused only a transient inhibition. 3) The increase in resistance induced by histamine, serotonin, leukotriene D4 or antigen was prevented by Ba253. Atropine, Sch1000 and isoproterenol also inhibited these reactions, but the effects and the duration were generally weaker and shorter than those of Ba253. 4) Repeated inhalations of Ba253 for 7 days did not influence the inhibition of the ACh-induced increase in airway resistance by this drug. However, isoproterenol tended to attenuate the suppression of the resistance by the drug. From these results, it is suggested that Ba253 is a useful inhalant drug for asthma. PMID- 2528647 TI - Effect of sizofilan, an immunomodulator, on hepatic microsomal mixed-function oxidase activities in rats. AB - Mixed-function oxidase activities of hepatic microsomal preparations from rats were examined after intraperitoneal administration of sizofilan (SPG), an immunomodulator. Repeated doses of SPG (3 mg/kg/12 hr, 4 times) depressed the hepatic cytochrome P-450 content and the activities of aminopyrine N-demethylase and aniline hydroxylase. PMID- 2528648 TI - The biologic fate of Dacron double velour vascular prostheses--a clinicopathological study. AB - Thirty-one Dacron double velour prostheses removed from 16 patients were studied microscopically in order to elucidate the changes they underwent following implantation. The process of incorporation was divided into three phases. In the initial phase, immediately following the implantation, the prostheses became surrounded by a fibrin meshwork. In the organizing phase, which sets in 10 weeks after the implantation, there was an external fibrous capsular formation around the initially fibrin-infiltrated grafts. There was also fibroblastic ingrowth and granulation formation among the interstices and the prostheses showed firm adhesion to the surrounding tissues. One year following the implantation, after most of the luminal surfaces had been covered with collagen tissues, the cellular infiltration subsided and the graft passed into the stable phase. Foreign body giant cells and lymphocytes were seen throughout the study period. These prostheses were then compared with other prostheses which do not have velour structures. The nonvelour grafts showed less adhesion to the surrounding tissues. Microscopically, cellular reaction and collagenous ingrowth were also less. The velour surface thus seems to stimulate granulation ingrowth and to contribute to the firm adhesion of the graft to the surrounding tissues. This firm adhesion enhances resistance to infection and is considered safer in case of suture aneurysm formation. PMID- 2528649 TI - Two cases of postoperative erythroderma. AB - Postoperative erythroderma is a rare disease of which the clinical course is almost always fatal. It is characterized by fever, skin rash, hepatic dysfunction and leukopenia, and many of the cases occur after cardiovascular surgery. We have experienced two cases of this disease which are suspected to be related to a large amount of blood transfusion. In the second case, we observed genetical mismatch of the HLA typing between the patient and his family members. This observation strongly suggests the possibility that postoperative erythroderma is a form of graft-versus-host (GVH) reaction induced by transfused lymphocytes. The reason why the patient's immunity is so suppressed as to cause GVH reaction is still unknown. Cardiopulmonary bypass and a large amount of fresh blood transfusion are suspected for immune suppression. The fact that postoperative erythroderma occurs almost exclusively in the Japanese cannot be fairly explained, either. Racial homogeneity in Japan might cause immune tolerance in blood transfusion. PMID- 2528650 TI - [Study of the incidence and dynamics of non-fatal forms of ischemic heart disease in the male population based on repeated examinations]. AB - The paper presents results obtained from a standardized two-stepped survey of 479 males divided into 4 groups: 2 randomized groups of patients aged under 55 years or more, respectively, at the final step of the survey, and 2 hyperlipidemic groups of those of the same age. At the initial and final steps of the survey, the incidence of coronary heart disease (CHD) was analyzed, which varied from 13.5% to 45.6%. It was shown that CHD remission might occur as judged from the epidemiological criteria. The most favorable course of CHD was observed in males with hyperlipidemia at the age of 50-55 years. PMID- 2528651 TI - [Mechanisms of the hypotensive effect of psychorelaxation therapy in hypertension]. AB - An evaluation of the effect of mental relaxation treatment on endogenous opioid activity and vascular reactivity in 20 patients with labile essential hypertension has demonstrated that mental relaxation treatment results in a significantly greater drop in arterial BP, as compared to pharmacologic placebo, and is associated with the improvement of the patients' psychological status, lesser psychophysiologic and vascular reactivity, and a smaller beta-endorphin increment under emotional stress. PMID- 2528652 TI - Dopamine receptor subtypes in renal brush border and basolateral membranes. AB - Dopamine (DA) modulates renal tubular sodium transport by actions at both brush border (BBM) and basolateral membranes (BLM). DA receptors have been demonstrated in proximal tubule but the subtype of DA receptor in either BBM or BLM has not been determined. DA-1 receptors were quantitated by the specific binding of 125I SCH 23982, a DA-1 antagonist (defined by 20 microM SCH 23390, a DA-1 antagonist) and DA-2 receptors by the specific binding of 3H-methyl-spiroperidol or 3H spiroperidol (defined by 30 microM trifluperidol, a predominantly DA-2 antagonist). The specific binding of 125I-SCH 23982 and 3H-methyl-spiroperidol or 3H-spiroperidol were saturable with time and ligand concentration and reversible. Analysis of Rosenthal plots by non-linear regression revealed a high affinity site and a very low affinity site for both BLM and BBM. Maximum receptor density was similar in BBM and BLM. Competition experiments with 125I-SCH 23982 revealed high and low affinity binding sites in both BBM and BLM. The high affinity site was characteristic of a DA-1 receptor. Competition experiments with 3H spiroperidol were also suggestive of DA-2 receptors. DA-1 but not DA-2 drugs increased adenylate cyclase and phospholipase-C activities in both BBM and BLM. However, their effects were greater in BLM than BBM. We conclude that DA-1 and DA 2 receptors are present in both BBM and BLM in canine kidney. Renal DA-1 receptors are linked to stimulation of both adenylate cyclase and phospholipase-C activity. PMID- 2528653 TI - Activation of the alternative pathway of complement by cellulosic hemodialysis membranes. AB - Compared to cellulose acetate, hemodialysis with cuprophan membranes is associated with greater activation of the alternative pathway of complement. Previous studies have shown that this difference is not due to a greater number of potential covalent binding sites for activated C3 on cuprophan. To investigate further the factors that influence complement activation by hemodialysis membranes, proteins were eluted from serum-treated cuprophan and cellulose acetate membranes with hydroxylamine at alkaline pH and analyzed by SDS-PAGE and Western blot. Approximately 23 times more total protein was removed from cellulose acetate. Virtually all the C3 in the cellulose acetate eluate was in the form of inactive fragments C3c and C3dg. In contrast, the functionally active form of C3 (C3b) was a prominent constituent of the cuprophan eluate. The binding of factor B (precursor of the catalytic subunit of the C3 convertase) and factor H (regulatory protein of C3 activation) to serum-treated membranes was also analyzed. By Scatchard's method, the affinity constant at equilibrium for factor B binding (KB) to the two types of membranes was not significantly different; however, there were approximately four times more factor B binding sites on the cuprophan than on the cellulose acetate. For cuprophan, the number of factor B binding sites was 1.6 times greater than the number of factor H binding sites. These studies demonstrate that a portion of the C3b molecules that bind to cuprophan are protected from degradation, and suggest that the complement activating capacity of hemodialysis membranes is determined by biochemical properties that modulate both the binding of serum proteins to the membrane and the interactions of the endogenous regulatory proteins with membrane-associated C3b. PMID- 2528654 TI - Impact of left ventricular hypertrophy on survival in end-stage renal disease. AB - We examined the prognostic significance of left ventricular hypertrophy determined by echocardiography in a cohort beginning renal replacement therapy. No patient had hemodynamically significant valvular disease or echocardiographic signs of obstructive cardiomyopathy. Using the Cox proportional hazards model, left ventricular hypertrophy was significantly associated with survival. The relative risk, based on comparison of upper and lower quintiles of left ventricular mass index, was 3.7 (95% confidence intervals, 1.6 to 8.3) for all cause mortality and 3.7 (95% confidence intervals, 1.2 to 11.1) for cardiac mortality. The independent risk, adjusted for age, known coronary artery disease, diabetes, level of systolic blood pressure, and treatment (dialysis or transplantation), was 2.9 (95% confidence intervals, 1.3 to 6.9) for all-cause mortality and 2.7 (95% confidence intervals, 0.9 to 8.2) for cardiac mortality. Therefore, left ventricular hypertrophy appears to be an important, independent, determinant of survival in patients receiving therapy for end-stage renal failure. PMID- 2528655 TI - [Treatment of heart injuries at the Central District Hospital]. PMID- 2528656 TI - [Study of regional blood flow in the prognosis of the process of healing of postoperative wounds]. AB - The authors suggest using the regional blood flow in control over the course of the wound process after various types of laparotomy so as to prognosticate the possibility of suppuration of the postoperative wounds. Examination of 20 patients showed that the regional blood flow values depended on the operative trauma and the character of the inflammatory process in the abdominal cavity. Decrease of the regional blood flow in the wound to 24 ml/min/100 g and lower indicates that purulent inflammation will most probably develop in the postoperative wound. PMID- 2528657 TI - [Comparative results of the surgical treatment of echinococcosis in patients hospitalized after applying for medical services and in those identified by an active method]. AB - The work deals with the results of studying 2,025 patients who were operated on for hydatid disease of various localization which was diagnosed on their visit to a physician and 181 patients in whom the disease was discovered by the active method. A high percentage of complications (16.1%) and mortality (4.1%) were registered after surgery in the first group. In the second group of patients postoperative complications amounted to 8.1% and mortality was 0.5%. It was concluded that recognition of patients before the development of complications influences significantly the outcome of operation for hydatid disease. To improve the results of surgical treatment of hydatid disease, the patients must be recognized actively and those who underwent operation must be kept under regular medical survey. PMID- 2528658 TI - [Characteristics of Doppler echocardiographic examination of the right heart in patients with lung diseases]. AB - The methodological++ features of echocardiographic study in patients with lung diseases are discussed. Doppler echocardiography provides information on the dimensions of the right heart, thickness of the myocardium and the level of pressure in the pulmonary trunk. Ultrasonography of the heart in these patients should be conducted mainly from the apical and subcostal approaches and parameters determined as mean ones for the respiratory cycle. PMID- 2528659 TI - [Clinical value of the acetylcholine and exercise tests and their safety provided by the use of broncholytics]. AB - Study of the external respiration parameters in 144 patients with bronchial asthma and pollinosis during the acetylcholine and physical exercise tests prior to and after the administration of cholinolytics and corinfar produced the following results. Cholinolytics produced a protective effect in acetylcholine bronchospasm, troventol was more effective than atrovent, calcium antagonists has no preventive effect in exercise tolerance test. PMID- 2528660 TI - A new design of vehicle seat intended to alleviate lower back pain. PMID- 2528661 TI - Interleukin 1 and related cytokines. PMID- 2528662 TI - Characterization of a platelet derived factor modulating phagocyte functions and cooperating with interleukin 1. AB - During experiments aiming at the generation of monoclonal antibodies against native human interleukin 2 an antibody of different specificity was obtained, recognizing a polypeptide contaminant within the antigen preparation used for immunization. This antigen was shown to represent a release protein from human blood platelets. Amino acid sequence analysis of the immunopurified antigen revealed its identity as beta-thromboglobulin antigen. Depending on the source of antigen (freshly lysed platelets, platelet containing cell culture supernatants) various forms of the polypeptide, differing in the degree of N-terminal truncation, were found. Beta-thromboglobulin antigen preparations differing in peptide composition also had different capacities for modulating spontaneous as well as Fc-receptor dependent chemiluminescence of human monocytes and granulocytes. In contrast to former reports, no mitogenic activity for human dermal fibroblasts was found with beta-TG antigen (CTAP III) alone, but only in combination with human interleukin 1 and heparin, the three molecules acting synergistically. These findings indicate that beta-TG antigen could play a functional role in linking the blood clotting system to the immune system. PMID- 2528663 TI - Interleukin 1 and interleukin 1 receptors in human B-cell lines. PMID- 2528665 TI - [The concept of functional disabilities is not independent of evaluation]. PMID- 2528664 TI - N-glycosidase treatment of Colo 205 cells interferes with hIFN-gamma induced HLA DR expression. AB - We investigated the effects of N-glycosidase treatment on the interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) induced HLA-DR expression of Colo 205 cells. N-glycosidase treatment resulted in a significant decrease of IFN-gamma induced HLA-DR specific immunofluorescence intensity ranging from complete reduction to approximately 30% of that of untreated control cells depending on the IFN-gamma dose. IFN-gamma binding studies showed that this was due to a severe reduction in IFN-gamma binding capacity of N-glycosidase treated cells. Since the number of cell membrane IFN-gamma receptors (IFN-gamma-Rs) was virtually unchanged as revealed by immunofluorescence analysis with a hIFN-gamma-R specific monoclonal antibody this indicates that N-linked carbohydrates play an important role in signal transduction and ligand binding capacity of the hIFN-gamma-R and strengthens the view that carbohydrate moieties of receptor proteins are of greater functional significance than originally anticipated. PMID- 2528667 TI - The role of calcium in the control of respiration by muscle mitochondria. AB - In muscle, energy supply is finely tuned to energy demand. Ca2+-activated ATP hydrolysis in the cytosol provides ADP to the mitochondrion to stimulate oxidative phosphorylation by acceptor control of mitochondrial respiration. Although mitochondria are responsive to increased concentrations of ADP in vitro, oxygen extraction in cardiac muscle may increase independently of any significant alterations in cellular ADP levels or of dramatic changes in cellular phosphate metabolites as determined by P-31 NMR. Alterations in ATP/ADP ratios in skeletal muscle with aerobic exercise may be dependent on fiber type, with maintained ATP levels seen in oxidative fibers during muscle work. These data are consistent with increased rates of NADH generation by mitochondrial dehydrogenases, so that ATP production keeps pace with ATP hydrolysis in the cytosol. The mechanism of increased ATP synthesis in muscle mitochondria is termed "stimulus-response metabolism coupling." Ca2+ ion increases in the muscle cytosol enhance contractility and glycogen breakdown. The Ca2+ signal is then transmitted to the mitochondria to provide matrix Ca2+ concentrations, which activate Ca2+-sensitive dehydrogenase activities, leading to accelerated rates of NAD reduction and oxidative phosphorylation. Thus, Ca2+ signaling to the mitochondria may explain the lack of dramatic fluctuations in the cytosolic phosphorylation potential over a large range of contractile activities in cardiac muscle. PMID- 2528666 TI - The suppression of eicosanoid synthesis by peritoneal macrophages is influenced by the ratio of dietary docosahexaenoic acid to linoleic acid. AB - The efficacy of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in suppressing eicosanoid synthesis by peritoneal macrophages in vivo was influenced by the relative amount of dietary DHA when linoleic acid (LA) was held constant. Increasing DHA from 0 to 37% of the fatty acids in diets containing 10 weight % fat (of which LA was 40%) caused an eleven-fold increase in the DHA content of macrophages. Limited retroconversion of DHA to eicosapentaenoic acid was observed. Macrophages in animals consuming DHA synthesized significantly lower amounts of leukotriene E4, prostaglandin E2 and 6-keto prostaglandin F1 alpha in vivo upon stimulation with zymosan. The maximum inhibition of eicosanoid synthesis was observed when the dietary DHA/LA ratio was 0.16 and no further inhibition occurred when the ratio was increased up to 0.81. PMID- 2528668 TI - Measurement and control of intracellular calcium in intact red cells. PMID- 2528669 TI - Purification and biochemical assay of synexin and of the homologous calcium dependent membrane-binding proteins, endonexin II and lipocortin I. PMID- 2528670 TI - Hypothesis: Alzheimer's disease is a phylogenetic disease. AB - It is hypothesized that Alzheimer's disease is a human phylogenetic disease which has a common multifactorial pathogenesis in sporadic and familial cases and in Down syndrome, related to a genomic character function G(x). Increments in G(x) accompanied the increased gene expression that sustained brain growth and differentiation during hominid evolution, particularly of the regions liable to Alzheimer pathology, and further occur in Down syndrome [suggesting that genes on chromosome 21 are included in G(x)]. If genes which promoted human brain evolution contribute to the value of G(x), a better understanding of the genomic events which promoted this evolution, using molecular biological techniques, should elucidate the genetic basis of Alzheimer's disease, and vice versa. PMID- 2528671 TI - [Detection of an increase in the proportion of tick-borne encephalitis virus infected Dermacentor marginatus Sulz. among active females of older physiological ages]. AB - Numbers of active females of Dermacentor marginatus ticks infected parenterally with tick-borne encephalitis virus are compared. Increase in this proportion is demonstrated with ticks' physiological aging. Epidemiological and epizootic importance of the discovered phenomenon are the increase in the probability of persistent virus circulation throughout the season, since only active individuals are capable of virus transmission. Besides, it is among them that the virus is most frequently found in saliva. PMID- 2528673 TI - [Effect of the irrigation and reclamation transformation of the Karshi Steppe on burrow sandflies of the genus Phlebotomus--vectors of the causative agent of zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis]. AB - Studies of land irrigation effect on Phlebotomus sandflies, carriers of Leishmania major (a zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis causative agent)--were performed for 15 field work periods, from 1967 to 1981, at 18 sites in various natural areas of the Karshi Steppe (Uzbek SSR). Over 43500 sandfly specimen were caught and identified. Regularities in sandfly number changes, first of all, that of Ph. papatasi, after irrigation were determined, with respect to various proximity of great gerbils' settlements, where sandflies breed in the irrigated fields. Well-drained sites situated higher than irrigated fields are practically unaffected by irrigation, sandflies number and specific composition being practically unchanged. At the sites situated either on the same level with irrigated fields or 3-5 m lower the number of sandflies changes usually in 2 stages: 1) short-term increase in Ph. papatasi number at the very beginning of the irrigation period; 2) formation of stably high or low Phlebotomus numbers due to stabilization of hydrothermal regime in the holes of great gerbils. PMID- 2528672 TI - [Visceral leishmaniasis in Ordubad District, Nakhichevan ASSR]. AB - Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) focus in the Ordubad District of the Nakhichevan ASSR has become active for the last years. Complex study of the focus, performed in 1985-1987, allowed to establish the following: VL causative agent, circulating in the Ordubad District belongs to the Leishmania infantum species. It was identified by isoenzymatic analysis (for 12 enzymes) and the Adler serological test. Disease cases prevailed in the upper part of the town of Ordubad and were confined to a small area (4 adjoining streets). Little children (up to 2 years old) prevail among patients. Spatial distribution of the disease correlated with indirect EIA data on healthy urban population (3116 persons examined) and stray dogs (152 animals examined). Mean percentage of positive assay results for the titers ranging from 1:80 to 1:20 was 8.0, for human population of Ordubad, and 19.1 for the dogs. Ten Phlebotominae species were found in Ordubad and its suburbs: Phlebotomus (Laroussius) major, Ph. (L.) kandelakii, Ph. (Adlerius) halepensis, Ph. (A.) balcanicus, Ph. (Phlebotomus) papatasi, Ph. (Paraphlebotomus) sergentii, Ph. (Par.) caucasicus, Ph. (Par.) alexandri, Sergentomyia dentata, S. palestinensis. Authors suggest that stray dogs are reservoirs of infectious agents in the Ordubad focus, while Phlebotominae of the Laroussius and Adlerius subspecies are disease carriers, the disease being regarded as a Mediterranean form of visceral leishmaniasis. PMID- 2528674 TI - [Seroepidemiologic study of echinococcosis foci in southeastern Kazakhstan]. AB - Mass screening of the southeastern Kazakhstan population with respect to echinococcosis by RDHA provided positive results in 3.1% cases. The highest seropositive reaction rate (6.1%) was obtained during examination of shepherds. In other population groups, this rate was equal and accounted for 2.6%. No difference was found in positive reaction rates between children and adults. The risk of echinococcal infestation in the area is the same for all groups of rural population except shepherds, which may be regarded as a risk group. PMID- 2528675 TI - [The creation of a laboratory colony of Anopheles pulcherrimus]. AB - A self-reproducing colony of the above-mentioned mosquito species has been cultured by using individuals caught in the Tadjik SSR. The colony is maintained for 8 months (18 generations). PMID- 2528676 TI - [The sensitivity of a natural population of Anopheles martinius to malathion and DDT in the Kirghiz SSR]. AB - Levels of An. martinius natural population resistance to DDT and malathion were determined in the Kirghiz SSR by a generally accepted WHO method. 100% sensitivity of mosquitoes to malathion and limited DDT-resistance (mean death rate, 59.1%) were revealed. Age-related differences in DDT-resistance level were established. Mosquitoes at the day of imago hatching were less sensitive: the death rate in case of the contact was 42.7%. Blood sucking produced no effect on their resistance. PMID- 2528677 TI - Ethics in practice. PMID- 2528678 TI - Synchronous division induced in Escherichia coli K12 by gemts mutants of phage Mu. AB - Infection with the bacteriophage mutant Mu c+ gemts2 at 42 degrees C induces synchrony in cell division in cultures of Escherichia coli K12. This synchrony may last for several cycles and is not only due to selection since synchronization is observed even when bacterial survival to the infection is over 80% as in lysogens for Mu c+ gemts2. The mechanism by which synchrony is induced is not known, but since the product of Mu gene gem (previously called lig) has been shown to interact with the enzymatic system in the bacteria controlling the degree of DNA supercoiling, the phenomenon could be a consequence of this interaction. PMID- 2528679 TI - Effect of lead on the erythrocyte (Ca2+,Mg2+)-ATPase activity. Calmodulin involvement. AB - I have investigated the effect of lead on the erythrocyte ghosts (Ca2+,Mg2+) ATPase, with special attention to the role of calmodulin in this phenomena. Under regular incubation conditions, lead inhibits the enzyme with an IC50 of 6.0 microM. The presence of exogenously added calmodulin apparently does not change this inhibitory value. DTT added during the incubation period does not affect the inhibitory action of lead. However, when the membranes are preincubated with DTT, an important IC50 displacement is observed, either with or without added calmodulin. Since [125I]calmodulin binding to the membranes is enhanced when lead is used, the possibility of a lead/calmodulin complex that optimally stimulates the enzyme using lead concentrations between 1.0 and 10.0 microM, is suggested. Based on the experimental data, I propose two well defined actions of lead; first, an inhibitory action upon the ATPase above 1.0 microM lead, most probably related to essential sulphydryl groups in the enzyme; and second, a direct action of lead upon calmodulin at lead concentrations below 1.0 microM. PMID- 2528680 TI - Ligand and protein kinase C downmodulate the colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor by independent mechanisms. AB - The turnover of the colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF-1R), the c-fms proto-oncogene product, is accelerated by ligand binding or by activators of protein kinase C (PKC), such as the phorbol ester 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13 acetate (TPA). The mechanisms of ligand- and TPA-induced downmodulation were shown to differ by the following criteria. First, in cells in which PKC was downmodulated, CSF-1R reexpressed at the cell surface remained sensitive to ligand but was refractory to TPA-induced degradation. Second, a kinase-defective receptor containing a methionine-for-lysine substitution at amino acid 616 at its ATP-binding site failed to undergo ligand-induced downmodulation but remained responsive to TPA. Following CSF-1 stimulation, no intermediates of receptor degradation could be immunoprecipitated with polyvalent antisera to CSF-1R. In contrast, TPA induced specific proteolytic cleavage of the receptor near its transmembrane segment, resulting in the release of the extracellular ligand binding domain from the cell and the generation of an intracellular fragment containing the kinase domain. Two-dimensional phosphopeptide mapping demonstrated no new sites of phosphorylation in response to TPA in either the residual intact receptor or the intracellular proteolytic fragment. Therefore, PKC appears not to trigger downmodulation by directly phosphorylating the receptor but, rather, activates a protease which recognizes CSF-1R as a substrate. PMID- 2528682 TI - A single essential gene, PRI2, encodes the large subunit of DNA primase in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. AB - DNA primase activity of the yeast DNA polymerase-primase complex is related to two polypeptides, p58 and p48. The reciprocal role of these protein species has not yet been clarified, although both participate in formation of the active center of the enzyme. The gene encoding the p58 subunit has been cloned by screening of a lambda gt11 yeast genomic DNA library, using specific anti-p58 antiserum. Antibodies that inhibited DNA primase activity could be purified by lysates of Escherichia coli cells infected with a recombinant bacteriophage containing the entire gene, which we designate PR12. The gene was found to be transcribed in a 1.7-kilobase mRNA whose level appeared to fluctuate during the mitotic cell cycle. Nucleotide sequence determination indicated that PR12 encodes a 528-amino-acid polypeptide with a calculated molecular weight of 62,262. The gene is unique in the haploid yeast genome, and its product is essential for cell viability, as has been shown for other components of the yeast DNA polymerase primase complex. PMID- 2528681 TI - The U1 RNA-binding site of the U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP) associated A protein suggests a similarity with U2 snRNPs. AB - The site of interaction between human U1 RNA and one of its uniquely associated proteins, A, was examined with in vitro binding assays. The A protein bound directly to stem-loop II of U1 RNA in a region which exhibits sequence similarity to U2 RNA. The similarity with U2 RNA was in a region that has been shown to interact with a U2 RNA-associated protein. The A protein-binding site on U1 RNA overlapped a previously described epitope for an RNA-specific human autoantibody (S. L. Deutscher and J. D. Keene, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 85:3299-3303, 1988), supporting the hypothesis that the anti-RNA antibody originated as an anti idiotypic response to A protein-specific autoantibodies. PMID- 2528683 TI - Adenovirus E1A-mediated negative control of genes activated during F9 differentiation. AB - The phenotype of a differentiated cell results from the expression of a unique set of genes in that cell. The differentiation of F9 teratocarcinoma cells in response to retinoic acid and cyclic AMP is an excellent example of this process, as the appearance of several gene products during the course of the differentiation process has been documented. In principle, the activation of gene expression could be due to the appearance of positive-acting factors, the loss of negative-acting factors, or a combination of both. Since F9 cells have been shown to express a cellular E1A analog whereas differentiated F9 cells do not, and it is known that the viral E1A gene exerts a negative effect on transcription of both viral and cellular genes, we determined whether the cellular genes activated during F9 cell differentiation are subject to E1A negative control. We found that infection of differentiated F9 cells with wild-type adenovirus resulted in a decline in the levels of collagen type IV mRNA and plasminogen activator mRNA, both of which are induced by differentiation. At least for the collagen gene, this phenomenon appears to involve a transcriptional repression. PMID- 2528684 TI - Development of an in vitro transcription system for Neurospora crassa mitochondrial DNA and identification of transcription initiation sites. AB - We have developed an in vitro transcription system for Neurospora crassa mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and used it to identify transcription initiation sites at the 5' ends of the genes encoding the mitochondrial small and large rRNA and cytochrome b (cob). The in vitro transcription start sites correspond to previously mapped 5' ends of major in vivo transcripts of these genes. Sequences around the three transcription initiation sites define a 15-nucleotide consensus sequence, 5'-TTAGARA(T/G)G(T/G)ARTRR-3', all or part of which appears to be an element of an N. crassa mtDNA promoter. A somewhat looser 11-nucleotide consensus sequence, 5'-TTAGARR(T/G)R(T/G)A-3', was derived by including two additional promoters identified recently. Group I extranuclear mutants, such as [poky] and [SG-3], have a 4-base-pair (bp) deletion in the consensus sequence at the 5' end of the mitochondrial small rRNA and are grossly deficient in mitochondrial small rRNA (R. A. Akins and A. M. Lambowitz, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 81:3791-3795, 1984). We show here that the 4-bp deletion in the consensus sequence decreases in vitro transcription from this site by more than 99%. N. crassa mtDNA is similar to Saccharomyces cerevisiae mtDNA in having multiple promoters, including separate promoters for the genes encoding the mitochondrial small and large rRNAs. Our results suggest that the primary effect of the 4-bp deletion in group I extranuclear mutants is to inhibit transcription of the mitochondrial small rRNA, leading to severe deficiency of mitochondrial small rRNA and small ribosomal subunits. PMID- 2528685 TI - Molecular cloning and regulatory analysis of the arylsulfatase structural gene of Neurospora crassa. AB - The ars-1+ gene of Neurospora crassa encodes the enzyme arylsulfatase. ars-1+ is in a group of highly regulated sulfur-related structural genes that are expressed under conditions of sulfur limitation and are under coordinate control of the cys 3+ and scon+ regulatory genes. The ars-1+ gene was cloned by chromosome walking from the qa gene cluster, using a lambda library. Cotransformation of an N. crassa ars-1 mutant with the isolated lambda clones and the benomyl resistance gene, followed by assay for arylsulfatase activity, was used to screen for the ars-1+ gene. Further confirmation that the cloned segment mapped to the ars-1+ locus was obtained by restriction-fragment-length polymorphism analysis. Northern (RNA) blot analysis showed that the ars-1+ gene was transcribed to give an mRNA of 2.3 kilobases. In wild-type cells, the ars-1+ transcript was abundant under sulfur-derepressing conditions but absent under repressing conditions. Time course analysis showed that the appearance of ars-1+ message in sulfur derepressed cultures paralleled the appearance of arylsulfatase enzyme activity. In addition, transcription of ars-1+ was detected only under derepressing conditions in a nuclear transcription assay. In a cys-3 regulatory mutant that was unable to synthesize arylsulfatase (or other sulfur-controlled enzymes), there was no ars-1+ transcript under repressing or derepressing conditions. In a temperature-sensitive cys-3 mutant, the ars-1+ transcript was present only at the permissive growth temperature and under sulfur derepression. A negative regulatory mutant, sconc, displayed both constitutive expression of arylsulfatase enzyme activity and content of ars-1+ message. PMID- 2528686 TI - PRP4 (RNA4) from Saccharomyces cerevisiae: its gene product is associated with the U4/U6 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particle. AB - The PRP4 (RNA4) gene product is involved in nuclear mRNA processing in yeast cells; we have previously cloned the gene by complementation of a temperature sensitive mutation. Sequence and transcript analyses of the cloned gene predicted the gene product to be a 52-kilodalton protein, which was confirmed with antibodies raised against the PRP4 gene product. These antibodies inhibited precursor mRNA splicing in vitro, demonstrating a direct role of PRP4 in splicing. Immunoprecipitations with the antibodies indicated that the PRP4 protein is associated with the U4/U6 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particle. PMID- 2528688 TI - Transduction of human colony-stimulating factor-1 (CSF-1) receptor into interleukin-3-dependent mouse myeloid cells induces both CSF-1-dependent and factor-independent growth. AB - A retroviral vector encoding the receptor for human colony-stimulating factor-1 (CSF-1) was introduced into murine myeloid FDC-P1 cells which require interleukin 3 (IL-3) for their proliferation and survival in culture. Cells expressing the CSF-1 receptor (CSF-1R), selected by fluorescence-activated cell sorting in the continued presence of murine IL-3, formed colonies in semisolid medium and were able to proliferate continuously in liquid cultures containing human recombinant CSF-1. Thus, although they do not synthesize endogenous murine CSF-1R, FDC-P1 cells express the downstream components of the CSF-1 mitogenic pathway necessary for its signal-response coupling. After receptor transduction, slowly proliferating factor-independent variants that produced neither CSF-1 nor growth factors able to support the proliferation of parental FDC-P1 cells also arose. When the human CSF-1R was expressed in FDC-P1 cells under the control of an inducible metallothionein promoter, the frequencies of both CSF-1-responsive and factor-independent variants increased after heavy-metal treatment. In addition, a monoclonal antibody to human CSF-1R arrested colony formation by both the CSF-1 dependent and factor-independent cells but did not affect their growth in response to IL-3. Therefore, the induction of both the CSF-1-dependent and factor independent phenotypes depended on expression of the transduced human CSF-1R. PMID- 2528689 TI - Transforming mutant v-mos protein kinases that are deficient in in vitro autophosphorylation. AB - We investigated the importance of specific serine residues for autophosphorylation and transformation by serine-threonine protein kinase p37mos. When either serine 326 or 358 was replaced with alanine, the resulting mutant protein retained the ability to transform NIH 3T3 cells but failed to autophosphorylate in vitro. These studies represent the first functional uncoupling of these two activities for p37mos. PMID- 2528687 TI - PRP4: a protein of the yeast U4/U6 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particle. AB - The Saccharomyces cerevisiae prp mutants (prp2 through prp11) are known to be defective in pre-mRNA splicing at nonpermissive temperatures. We have sequenced the PRP4 gene and shown that it encodes a 52-kilodalton protein. We obtained PRP4 protein-specific antibodies and found that they inhibited in vitro pre-mRNA splicing, which confirms the essential role of PRP4 in splicing. Moreover, we found that PRP4 is required early in the spliceosome assembly pathway. Immunoprecipitation experiments with anti-PRP4 antibodies were used to demonstrate that PRP4 is a protein of the U4/U6 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particle (snRNP). Furthermore, the U5 snRNP could be immunoprecipitated through snRNP-snRNP interactions in the large U4/U5/U6 complex. PMID- 2528690 TI - Isolation of a gene that down-regulates nitrate assimilation and influences another regulatory gene in the same system. AB - Glutamine is the preferred source of nitrogen of Neurospora crassa. In its presence and that of the gene product of MS5 (nmr-1), the fungus represses the assimilation of less preferred forms of nitrogen, such as nitrate. In the absence of glutamine and the presence of the product of gene nit-2, less preferred forms of nitrogen are assimilated as long as a specific pathway for their assimilation is induced. We report here the isolation, from a cosmid bank, of a gene that complements MS5 and can also complement nit-2. We speculate that this result suggests an interaction between the MS5 and nit-2 gene products and that this is important in the regulation of nitrate assimilation. PMID- 2528691 TI - v-mos oncoproteins affect the nuclear retention and reutilization of glucocorticoid receptors. AB - Expression of the p85gag-mos oncoprotein in temperature sensitive transformed 6m2 cells results in desensitization of glucocorticoid induction of metallothionein-1 mRNA. Indirect immunofluorescence analyses demonstrate that hormone insensitivity in v-mos transformed cells is associated with inefficient nuclear retention of glucocorticoid receptor (GR) protein. Desensitized receptors that accumulate in the cytoplasm of transformed 6m2 cells do not regain the capacity for hormone dependent nuclear translocation after turnover of the thermo-labile p85gag-mos oncoprotein. Although ligand induced down-regulation of immunoreactive GR protein occurs in transformed 6m2 cells, desensitized receptors appear to retain some capacity to bind hormone in vivo. Thus alterations in the intracellular partitioning of GR protein in v-mos-transformed cells result in the generation of a novel desensitized receptor that is apparently trapped in the cytoplasm and incapable of being reutilized. PMID- 2528692 TI - Analysis of proopiomelanocortin gene expression during prenatal development of the rat pituitary gland. AB - The POMC gene is transcribed in 5-10% of adult rat anterior pituitary cells and nearly all intermediate lobe cells, but the end product peptide hormones produced by these two cell populations are distinct. We have here used in situ hybridization with 3H-POMC cRNA probes to investigate the temporal and spatial distribution of POMC mRNA containing cells during development of both lobes of the adenohypophysis. These hybridization patterns were, in addition, compared to the immunocytochemical distribution of POMC-related peptides on the same or adjacent sections. In both POMC populations, POMC-mRNA detection preceded POMC derived peptide accumulation by at least 0.5 days. POMC-mRNA was first detected in the ventral aspect of Rathke's pouch (which will give rise to the anterior lobe) at e 13, which was two days earlier than POMC transcripts were first detected in the intermediate lobe; this result provides strong evidence that factors eliciting POMC transcription in these two populations act at distinct times during development. Further, since POMC mRNA containing cells were restricted to the anterior lobe during stages when intermediate lobe-like POMC peptides have been characterized biochemically, these results confirm immunocytochemical results and demonstrate that developmentally regulated alterations in the extent of POMC posttranslational processing occur during prenatal differentiation of anterior lobe POMC cells. POMC expression in the intermediate lobe was first observed in the midcaudal region in the midsagittal plane and subsequently extended in a gradient-like pattern to the rest of the intermediate lobe. Finally, semiquantitation of in situ hybridization signals documented that increases in the relative levels of POMC mRNA/cell occur at specific ages in both anterior and intermediate lobe. POMC cell populations and demonstrated that adult POMC mRNA/cell levels are not achieved before birth in either the anterior or intermediate lobe POMC cell populations. PMID- 2528693 TI - Treatment of seborrhoeic dermatitis with bifonazole. AB - Twenty-five patients with seborrhoeic dermatitis localised to the face were treated with bifonazole cream once daily for 4 weeks. Twenty-one (84%) were free of lesions, 2 improved and in 2 no improvement was seen. Bifonazole is not only an effective antimycotic agent, it also has anti-inflammatory activities and this combination may be beneficial in the treatment of seborrhoeic dermatitis. PMID- 2528694 TI - Protein folding in mitochondria requires complex formation with hsp60 and ATP hydrolysis. AB - Mitochondrial heat-shock protein hsp60 functions in the folding of proteins imported into mitochondria. Folding occurs at the surface of hsp60 in an ATP mediated reaction, followed by release of the bound polypeptides. We propose that hsp60 catalyses protein folding. PMID- 2528695 TI - CD3-negative natural killer cells express zeta TCR as part of a novel molecular complex. AB - Natural killer (NK) cells are large granular lymphocytes capable of killing tumour cells in a non-MHC restricted manner. NK cells do not express cell-surface CD3, or any known target recognition structure analogous to the T cell antigen receptor (TCR) heterodimers (alpha beta or gamma delta). Consistent with their lack of expression of a CD3-TCR complex, NK cells do not require prior sensitization or antigen presentation by accessory cells to specifically recognize their tumour targets. Although NK cells do not express CD3-TCR, they do express CD2, the target of an alternative activation pathway which is functional in both T cells and NK cells. In T cells, this alternative activation pathway utilizes some component of the CD3-TCR complex as a transducer molecule that is required for mitogenesis. The fact that NK cells are activated by this alternative pathway suggested that they might express a related subunit of the CD3-TCR complex capable of transducing the CD2-mediated signal. Here we show that human NK cells express the zeta-chain of the TCR complex in association with additional structures not included in CD3-TCR. PMID- 2528696 TI - Amyloid beta-protein deposition in tissues other than brain in Alzheimer's disease. AB - Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of progressive intellectual failure in aged humans. The filamentous brain lesions which define the disease occur within neurons (neurofibrillary tangles), in extracellular cerebral deposits (amyloid plaques) and in meningocerebral blood vessels (amyloid angiopathy). They are found in lesser numbers in the brains of virtually all old humans. A protein with a relative molecular mass (Mr) of approximately 4,000, designated amyloid beta-protein or amyloid A4 protein, is the subunit of the vascular and plaque amyloid filaments in individuals with Alzheimer's disease, normal ageing and trisomy 21 (Down's syndrome). The amyloid beta-protein is a small fragment of a membrane-associated glycoprotein, encoded by a gene on human chromosome 21 which is telomeric to a genetic defect that causes at least some cases of familial Alzheimer's disease. Until now, the pathological lesions of the disease have been found only in the brain, although reports of phenotypic abnormalities in non neural tissues have suggested that Alzheimer's disease may be a widespread, systemic disorder. Here we report the detection of amyloid beta-protein deposits in non-neural tissues and blood vessels of Alzheimer's disease patients, including skin, subcutaneous tissue and intestine. The protein was also present in non-neural tissues in a proportion of aged, normal subjects. Our findings indicate that a principal feature of the disease process is expressed subclinically in tissues other than brain. The occurrence of amyloid beta-protein deposits in multiple tissues suggests that the protein may be produced locally in numerous organs or may, as in other human amyloidoses, be derived from a common circulating precursor. These observations affect the rationale for many experiments analysing the amyloid beta-protein precursor and its messenger RNAs in Alzheimer's disease brain tissue and have major implications for the pathogenesis and treatment of the disease. PMID- 2528697 TI - Functional replacement of a protein-induced bend in a DNA recombination site. AB - In recent years the capacity of proteins to bend DNA by binding to specific sites has become a widely appreciated phenomenon. In many cases, the protein-DNA interaction is known to be functionally significant because destruction of the DNA site or the protein itself results in an altered phenotype. An important question to be answered in these cases is whether bending of DNA is important per se or is merely a consequence of the way a particular protein binds to DNA. Here we report direct evidence from the bacteriophage lambda integration system that a bend introduced by a protein is intrinsically important. We find that a binding site for a specific recombination protein known to bend DNA can be successfully replaced by two other modules that also bend DNA; related modules that fail to bend DNA are ineffective. PMID- 2528698 TI - Phasing of protein-induced DNA bends in a recombination complex. AB - Many of the structures responsible for replication, transcription initiation and recombination arise from complex sets of protein-protein interactions and the folding of DNA in three dimensions, with protein-induced bending of DNA often playing an integral role. The magnitude and orientation of DNA bending induced by various single proteins has been estimated by gel mobility shift methods and by modelling of crystallographic data. The site-specific recombination by which bacteriophage lambda (phage lambda) integrates into the chromosome of its host Escherichia coli requires a host protein, 'integration host factor' (IHF), which is known to be able to bend the DNA to which it binds. To determine the three dimensional path of DNA within the higher order structure responsible for phage lambda site-specific recombination, we have determined the relative direction of IHF-induced bending at each of the three binding sites within the complex. IHF, which appears to bend DNA by more than 140 degrees, is a major determinant of the DNA path in the recombination complex and is also involved in a wide range of other cellular events. PMID- 2528699 TI - A new approach to back injury. PMID- 2528700 TI - Acute tubular necrosis following co-trimoxazole therapy. PMID- 2528701 TI - An analysis of the morphology of senile plaques in Down's syndrome patients of different ages using immunocytochemical and lectin histochemical techniques. AB - The morphology of the senile plaque (SP), within the hippocampus and the temporal cortex, has been examined in 21 patients with Down's syndrome (DS), dying between the ages of 13 and 65 years, using immunocytochemical and lectin histochemical methods, as well as with a conventional silver staining technique. The earliest changes detectable within these areas of brain in the younger patients involved a fine diffuse deposition of amyloid (A4) protein and a uniform granular accumulation of an oligosaccharide recognized by the lectin from Canavalia ensiformis (ConA). At this stage, these 'pre-plaque' areas are unrecognizable using silver staining. Later the conventional SP morphology becomes apparent; the A4 protein aggregates into the usual plaque core and neurites appear with silver staining. The fine ConA positive material concentrates into large clumps and becomes recognizable by other lectins such as PSA, WGA and ePHA, which bind to mannose containing structures in an increasingly complex form. It is suggested that the development of the pathological changes of Alzheimer's disease, in patients with DS (and also in AD itself) involves a primary deposition of amyloid protein in conjunction with the accumulation of an as yet unidentified oligosaccharide. These changes precede the neuronal response that is characterized by the formation of neurites and the accumulation of neurofibrillary tangles that ultimately leads to cell death. PMID- 2528702 TI - Differences in the temperature dependence of drug interaction with the noradrenaline and serotonin transporters. AB - High affinity, sodium-dependent binding of [3H]mazindol is associated with the noradrenergic transporter while the binding of [3H]imipramine and [3H]paroxetine are associated with the serotonin transporter, e.g. in human platelets. In general radioligand binding studies to the monoamine transporters are performed at a temperature different from the physiological temperature (37 degrees C) at which uptake occurs. Previously reported data show a temperature dependence for tricyclic but not for nontricyclic inhibitors of the uptake of serotonin in their interaction with radioligand binding to the serotonin transporter. In the present study, both tricyclic and nontricyclic inhibitors of the uptake of noradrenaline were shown to have equal affinity for the binding of [3H]mazindol to the noradrenergic transporter at 0 degrees and 25 degrees C. Moreover, whereas serotonin transporter substrates inhibit the binding of [3H]imipramine/paroxetine in human platelets in an essentially temperature-independent manner (0-37 degrees C), noradrenaline transporter substrates are of higher affinity in inhibiting the binding of [3H]mazindol at 0 degrees C than at 25 degrees C. At 0 degrees C, substrate affinity for inhibition of the binding of [3H]mazindol to the noradrenaline transporter in the salivary gland of the rat approximates to the substrate affinity for transport by the noradrenaline carrier. The present data point to significant differences in the interaction of both substrates and inhibitors with the noradrenergic and serotonergic transporters, as studied using the radioligand binding. Thus, the pharmacological profile of the serotonin transporter, in terms of substrate and inhibitor affinity, is best studied using radioligand binding at 37 degrees C, whereas radioligand binding to the noradrenaline transporter is most representative at 0 degrees C.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528703 TI - SKF marketing of hepatitis B vaccine. PMID- 2528704 TI - New Zealand Society of Physiotherapists, court of appeal and ACC. PMID- 2528706 TI - [An algorithm for the selection for manual therapy of patients with clinical manifestations of osteochondrosis]. PMID- 2528705 TI - Sequential hormonal therapy and sequential hormonal and chemotherapy for advanced prostatic cancer. AB - Ninety-two patients with D2 prostatic cancer were studied. Initial treatment was with either diethylstilboestrol (DES) or orchidectomy. Response to DES (5/63, 81%) was significantly higher than for orchidectomy (18/29, 62%; p less than 0.01). However, duration of response and duration of survival were not significantly different for the 2 forms of hormonal therapy. Fifty-seven patients were randomised to receive second-line treatment with either medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA), oral chlorambucil or combination chemotherapy (adriamycin + cyclophosphamide + 5-fluoro-uracil). Response to second-line treatment was similar for all 3 regimens (46% overall response). Most of the responses were disease stabilisation and, although there was symptomatic benefit, response to second-line therapy did not significantly improve survival compared to the survival experience of the group as a whole. It is concluded that palliative second-line treatment for advanced prostatic cancer should consist of the least toxic form of treatment which in this study was second-line hormone administration (MPA). PMID- 2528707 TI - [Granulomatous dermatitis caused by surfen in diabetics treated with Insulin depot-S-Richter]. AB - Two cases of local cutaneous reaction in diabetics treated with Insulin-depot-S Richter are reported. Intracutaneous test and histological examination revealed that the granulomatous inflammation of the skin was due to surfen. Insulin-depot S-Richter was changed to insulin preparation free from surfen (Monotard MC, Novo) and no further local reactions could be observed in the same patients. PMID- 2528708 TI - The apparent antinociceptive effect of desipramine and zimelidine in the tail flick test in rats is mainly caused by changes in tail skin temperature. AB - Tricyclic antidepressants have shown antinociceptive properties in some, but not in all, animal studies using the tail flick test. Tail flick latency has been found to be strongly negatively correlated to tail skin temperature with its highest correlation found when the temperature is measured close to the heated spot. The selective 5-HT reuptake inhibitor zimelidine, as well as the noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor desipramine, increased tail flick latencies. However, this increase could largely be explained by a concomitant reduction in tail skin temperature. The highest dose of desipramine investigated (25 mg/kg) seemed to possess antinociceptive properties in this test also after correction for the fall in tail skin temperature. Lower doses of desipramine (5 and 15 mg/kg) and zimelidine (5, 20 and 30 mg/kg) were either inactive or their effect on tail flick latency could be explained by the fall in tail skin temperature. The apparent antinociceptive effect of zimelidine in the tail flick test thus seems to be due to an effect on tail skin temperature. Desipramine also seems to have its main effect due to a similar mechanism; however, the highest dose of desipramine used induced significant antinociception. PMID- 2528709 TI - Environmental and interoceptive influences on chronic low back pain behavior. AB - The operant conditioning theory states that environmental stimuli greatly influence chronic pain behavior. In contrast, the hypochondriasis theory states that pain behavior is the result of an intensified pain perception which is part of a more general augmentation and amplification of normal bodily sensations. The operant theory predicts that pain behavior (operationalized as poorer endurance on the part of chronic low back pain patients as compared to the endurance of control subjects in a series of 6 working-to-tolerance treadmill tests) will decrease when no verbal or non-verbal feedback for treadmilling behavior is given. This hypothesis could not be confirmed in the present study. The hypochondriasis theory predicts that chronic pain patients will report more bodily sensations, both at rest and after treadmill exercises. This hypothesis was strongly supported by the findings of the present study. PMID- 2528710 TI - Susceptible mice present higher macrophage activation than resistant mice during infections with myotropic strains of Trypanosoma cruzi. AB - The kinetics of macrophage activation were compared among inbred strains of mice (C3H, BALB, B6 and B10.A) that are known to differ in their relative resistance to infections with the myotropic strains (Colombian and CL) of Trypanosoma cruzi. The parameters utilized to measure macrophage activation were rapid spreading on glass surfaces, hydrogen peroxide release and tumour necrosis factor/cachectin production. Macrophages obtained from C3H (susceptible), BALB (intermediate) and B6 or B10.A (resistant) mice infected with both strains of T. cruzi began to spread rapidly at the onset of parasitaemia. Surprisingly, the amount of hydrogen peroxide released by peritoneal cells obtained from the more susceptible mouse strain (C3H) was significantly higher than in the other mouse strains. Also, only in the serum of C3H mice was tumour necrosis factor/cachectin detected. These results suggest that resistance against infections with myotropic strains of T. cruzi does not correlate with enhanced macrophage activation. It is also shown that the acquired macrophage activation is largely dependent on T-lymphocytes bearing the phenotypic marker CD4 (helper/inducer), since all parameters of macrophage activation were significantly inhibited in athymic mice or in C3H mice treated in vivo with monoclonal antibody anti-CD4+ T-cells. PMID- 2528711 TI - [Effect of teicoplanin and vancomycin on cerebrospinal fluid proteins of non infected rabbits after suboccipital injection]. AB - The IC inoculation of antibiotics into the CSF for therapeutic use could produce biological effects we should consider when analysing samples. To corroborate this assumption, we observed the effect of ICI T and V on the PL of the CSF of non infected rabbits. T and V were ICI as dosage of 1 mg/kg diluted in 0.2 ml of isotonic saline solution (ISS). ISS was also ICI alone. CSF samples were obtained before inoculation from 41 animals (T0) setting the normal PL. Other samples were obtained 2 (T2) and 4 hours (T4) after inoculation. PL were assayed in an Analyser Clinic Automatic (Du Pont). The statistical analysis was performed by the Kolomogorov-Smirnov Test, for comparison of samples from unknown and not necessarily similar distributions. Results were (mg/l) = PL at T0 = 0.20 +/- 0.08. At T2, levels were 0.6 +/- 0.41 (ISS), 0.73 +/- 0.27 (V) and 0.87 +/- 0.44 (T). At T4 they were 0.3 +/- 0.15 (ISS), 0.55 +/- 0.25 (V) and 0.78 +/- (T). Statistical differences (p less than 0.05) were demonstrated at T2 (T, V and ISS vs control at T0), at T4 = V, vs control at T0 but not between the two antibiotics nor between the two antibiotics and ISS, at any time. We conclude that IC inoculation of T and V and ISS increased significantly the CSF PL. PMID- 2528712 TI - Keratan sulphate: a functional substitute for chondroitin sulphate in O2 deficient tissues? AB - Keratan sulphate and chondroitin sulphate can each fill space and exert swelling pressure in collagenous fibrillar matrices, but whereas the former is synthesised from glucose precursor without consuming NAD, the latter converts 2 mols of NAD for each uronate residue in the polymer chain. We suggest that the observed distribution of keratan sulphate and chondroitin sulphate in cartilage, cornea and intervertebral disc are determined by the ambient oxygen tension, and that keratan sulphate is preferentially synthesised in conditions of oxygen lack. The implications of this hypothesis in the physiology of contact lenses, cartilage degeneration, corneal scar repair and ageing are discussed. PMID- 2528713 TI - [Value of differentially enhanced ECG in the diagnosis of atrial hypertrophy in children with congenital heart defects]. PMID- 2528714 TI - [Clinical characteristics of diphtheria in vaccinated and unvaccinated children during its sporadic outbreaks]. PMID- 2528715 TI - [Iatrogenic diseases in pediatrics and their prevention]. PMID- 2528716 TI - [Regional characteristics of the organization of ambulatory infant health care in emergency conditions (with special reference to the Turkmen SSR)]. PMID- 2528717 TI - [Activities of a pediatric mobile consultation-resuscitation unit]. PMID- 2528718 TI - Effects of variable practice on retention and motor schema development in Down syndrome subjects. AB - Portions of Schmidt's schema theory, the effects of variable practice on retention and ability to learn a novel motor task, were tested using Down syndrome subjects. 23 subjects ranged in mental and chronological ages from 3.0 to 5.1 yr. and 4.6 to 22 yr., respectively. IQs ranged from 32 to 62. The two throwing tasks were closed, discrete movements requiring no feedback or error detection during movement. Subjects were randomly assigned to a specific practice, variable-practice, or control group. Specific group subjects practiced 100 trials from the test-target location. Variable-practice subjects also practiced 100 trials but from four different practice locations. The control group practiced an unrelated kicking activity. All subjects participated in identical pretests, posttests, and retention tests to assess accuracy on these throwing tasks. A standard archery target was used to score tosses. To examine the effects of practice on a novel task, two target conditions, or tasks, were employed. On Task A the subject tossed a bean bag at the archery target placed flat on the floor. For Task B, the novel task, the target was placed upright on the wall. Subjects were assigned higher scores for tosses landing closer to the center of the target. Analysis of variance indicated no significant differences between groups on Task A pretest or posttest. Significance was detected for the main effect of group for Task B. However, the Scheffe post hoc test indicated that the simple main effects were nonsignificant. This research did not support Schmidt's schema theory.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528719 TI - Attitudes toward handicapped peers of mainstreamed and nonmainstreamed children in physical education. AB - The influence of contact (mainstreamed and nonmainstreamed) and sex on attitudes of fifth- and sixth-grade students toward handicapped children was examined. 143 mainstreamed students attended an integrated school, whereas 86 nonmainstreamed students had no handicapped children in their school. Mean responses to the Children's Attitudes Toward Handicapped Scale were subjected to a 2 x 2 analysis of variance which indicated no significant differences by contact or sex. Chi 2 analysis of individual items indicated some significant differences, favoring contact, on items "are fun" and "are interesting". PMID- 2528720 TI - Sorbitol metabolism in inner medullary collecting duct cells of diabetic rats. AB - Intracellular accumulation of sorbitol, generated from D-glucose via the aldose reductase pathway, is thought to play an important role in diabetic complications such as lens cataracts and neuropathy. In order to elucidate the effect of diabetes on the renal inner medulla, another sorbitol-rich tissue, male Wistar rats were treated with a single dose of streptozotocin (60 mg/kg body weight, i.p.). Six weeks later total inner medullary tissue (IM) or isolated inner medullary collecting duct (IMCD) cells were prepared. In diabetic IM tissue, sorbitol content was 1.8-fold higher than in control IM tissue (134 +/- 17 vs. 74 +/- 22 mumol/g tissue protein). Sorbitol production in both normal and diabetic IMCD cells was strongly dependent on extracellular D-glucose concentration. In normal cells, for example, sorbitol production was 90 +/- 9 mumol sorbitol/g protein x h at 45 mM D-glucose compared to 13 +/- 1 mumol/g protein x h at 5 mM. At identical D-glucose concentrations sorbitol synthesis in diabetic IMCD cells was, however, always significantly higher than in control cells (122% of control at 15 mM and 126% of control at 45 mM). In addition, aldose reductase activity in diabetic IM was found to be augmented. The maximal velocity was 4.2 times higher (97 +/- 22 U/g protein vs. 23 +/- 7 U/g protein) while the Km of the enzyme remained unchanged. Membrane permeability for sorbitol or the response to changes in extracellular osmolarity was not significantly different in diabetic IMCD cells and normal cells with correspondingly high intracellular sorbitol concentrations. Similarly the kinetic parameters of D-glucose uptake were not altered by streptozotocin treatment.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528721 TI - Comparison of the effects of putative activators of K+ channels on pancreatic B cell function. PMID- 2528722 TI - F1-ATPase alpha subunit in the mitochondrial genome of the Pythiaceae. PMID- 2528723 TI - Dancing on wheels. PMID- 2528724 TI - On the bottom rung. PMID- 2528725 TI - Pro-atrial natriuretic peptide (1-98): the circulating cardiodilatin in man. AB - The nature of plasma cardiodilatin, the amino-terminal product of the human pro atrial natriuretic peptide, was investigated by two separate radioimmunoassays directed against the N-terminal and the putative C-terminal of the cardiodilatin molecule: ANP-[Asn1-Lys16] and ANP-[Lys87-Arg98], respectively. Serial dilutions of normal and cardiac failure plasma exhibited parallelism with the synthetic peptide standard curves in both assays. The concentrations of N- and C-terminal cardiodilatin-immunoreactivity equivalents (-IE) were significantly higher in cardiac failure patients. N-terminal-IE: 912 +/- 87, normal subjects 129 +/- 13 (mean +/- SEM); C-terminal-IE: 7979 +/- 1784, normal subjects 895 +/- 213 (both p less than 0.001). Although the concentrations determined by the two assays were not identical, significant correlations were found between them in both normal subjects (r = .69, p less than 0.001) and cardiac failure patients (r = .72, p less than 0.01). Characterisation by gel permeation and fast protein liquid chromatography demonstrated coelution of the N- and C-terminal cardiodilatin immunoreactivities in a single chromatographic peak. These results suggest that the circulating cardiodilatin in normal subjects and patients with cardiac failure contains the entire prohormone amino-terminal sequence ANP-[Asn1-Arg98]. PMID- 2528726 TI - Analysis of the beta-endorphin structure-related activity on human monocyte chemotaxis: importance of the N- and C-terminal. AB - We evaluated the chemotactic activity of beta-endorphin and beta-endorphin related peptides on human monocytes. We tested beta-endorphin(1-31) and fragments (1-16), (1-17), (1-27) in which the N-terminal of the opioid is preserved, N acetyl-beta-endorphin(1-31) and fragments (6-31) and (28-31) in which the C terminal is preserved, and fragment (2-17) that lacks both the N- and C-terminal. The fragments in which the N- and C-terminal were preserved [with the exception of fragment (28-31)] showed a chemotactic effect, while the lack of both terminals deprived the peptides of any activity. Moreover, only the N-terminal mediated effects were naloxone reversible, while the C-terminal effects were not. These results indicate that while the intact N-terminal is necessary for opioid like effects, both N- and C-terminal can mediate effects on the immune system, thus offering evidence for a nonopioid receptor-mediated effect of opioid peptides on the immune system. PMID- 2528728 TI - Changes in nonmyocyte tissue composition associated with pressure overload of hypertrophic human hearts. AB - To investigate whether pressure-overloaded left ventricular hypertrophy is associated with changes in tissue composition of left ventricular subendocardial (ENDO) and subepicardial (EPI) myocardium, we studied post-mortem 19 normal hearts, 17 hearts of patients with systemic hypertension, and 5 hearts of patients with aortic stenosis. Coronary artery disease was present in 9 hearts of the hypertension group and all 5 hearts of the aortic stenosis group. By means of a grid-point method, volume percentages of nonmyocyte tissue were measured. In ENDO and EPI, nonmyocyte tissue contributed to 27 +/- 8% and 27 +/- 12% for normal hearts, 35 +/- 7% and 32 +/- 7% for hearts in the hypertension group without coronary disease, 40 +/- 10% and 29 +/- 8% for hearts in the hypertension group with coronary artery disease, and 38 +/- 9% and 40 +/- 7% for hearts with aortic stenosis, respectively. For the total group of 41 hearts the volume percentage of nonmyocyte tissue correlated with heart weight index in ENDO (r = 0.59: P less than 0.001), but not in EPI (r = 0.10; not significant). Hearts from patients with hypertension showed a significant increase in microscopical scar fibrosis in ENDO compared to normal, and this increase was amplified by the presence of coronary artery disease. Hearts from patients with aortic stenosis showed an increase in diffuse, non-scar interstitial tissue compared to normal, and occurred in ENDO and EPI. We conclude that the volume fraction of nonmyocyte tissue in ENDO increases as heart weight increases, independent of the type of pressure-overload. Only in the aortic stenosis group this increase of nonmyocyte tissue fraction was observed in EPI as well. PMID- 2528727 TI - Neuropeptide-dopamine interactions. IV. Effect of thyrotropin-releasing hormone on striatal dopaminergic neurons. AB - Many biologic effects of TRH seem to be mediated via a dopaminergic mechanism. The present study examined the effects of chronic TRH administration on the properties of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons. Ten days, continuous subcutaneous TRH administration via an osmotic minipump led to a significant rise in striatal level of 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid, but not of homovanillic acid or dopamine. These treatments also did not elicit any significant changes in the maximal binding capacity (Bmax) or affinity (KD) of either D1- or D2-dopamine receptor. By contrast, TRH administration led to a significant increase in both Bmax and KD of striatal mazindol binding. This effect of TRH, however, was not observed in in vitro studies. In conclusion, these data suggest that in vivo administration of TRH may modulate dopaminergic activities by altering, directly or indirectly, dopamine release and reuptake. PMID- 2528729 TI - mRNAs for plasma membrane calcium pump isoforms differing in their regulatory domain are generated by alternative splicing that involves two internal donor sites in a single exon. AB - cDNA clones coding for human plasma membrane Ca2+ pump isoforms have been isolated from a fetal skeletal muscle cDNA library. Compared with the sequence of a teratoma cDNA-encoded pump these clones specify isoforms that contain either 29 or 38-amino acid insertions within the calmodulin-binding region. Replacement of two basic arginine residues by an aspartic acid and a glutamine residue could influence the binding of calmodulin to these isoforms. RNase mapping shows that RNA species containing the 29-residue-encoding insertion are particularly abundant in skeletal muscles. The sequences coding for the insertions are present on a single 154-base-pair exon, as demonstrated by an analysis of the corresponding genomic region, and they are included in their respective mRNAs by alternative splicing involving the differential usage of two internal "cryptic" donor splice sites in the presence of a nearby canonical one. Inclusion of the complete 154-base-pair exon results in an mRNA coding for a pump protein with a shorter C-terminal amino acid sequence that lacks a consensus site for phosphorylation by the cAMP-dependent kinase. Exclusion, inclusion, or partial inclusion of the same exon can thus lead to the production of four different mRNAs from a single gene. When expressed as protein, these mRNAs encode Ca2+ pump isoforms that differ in their C-terminal regulatory domains. PMID- 2528730 TI - Organization of the gene encoding common acute lymphoblastic leukemia antigen (neutral endopeptidase 24.11): multiple miniexons and separate 5' untranslated regions. AB - The common acute lymphoblastic leukemia antigen (CALLA) is a 749-amino acid type II integral membrane protein that has been identified recently as the neutral endopeptidase 24.11 [NEP (EC 3.4.24.11)]. Herein, we characterize the organization of the human CALLA/NEP gene and show that it spans more than 80 kilobases (kb) and is composed of 24 exons. Exons 1 and 2 encode 5' untranslated sequences; exon 3 [170 base pairs (bp)] encodes the initiation codon and transmembrane and cytoplasmic domain; 20 short exons (exons 4-23), ranging in size from 36 to 162 bp, encode most of the extracellular portion of the enzyme; and exon 24 (approximately 3400 bp) encodes the COOH-terminal 32 amino acids of the protein and contains the entire 3' untranslated region (UTR). Of note, the pentapeptide sequence (His-Glu-Ile-Thr-His) associated with metalloprotease zinc binding and substrate catalysis is encoded within a single exon (exon 19). Three types of CALLA/NEP cDNAs have been identified: these clones contain 5' UTR sequences differing from one another upstream of exon 3. These human 5' sequences are homologous to those found in rat brain and rabbit kidney NEP cDNAs. The three human CALLA cDNA types result from alternative splicing of exons 1, 2a, or 2b to the common exon 3. Moreover, exons 2a and 2b share the same 5' sequence but differ from each other by the use of two distinct donor splice sites 171 bp apart in the gene. The substantial conservation of 5' untranslated sequences among species and the existence of 5' alternative splicing suggest that CALLA gene expression may be differentially controlled in a tissue-specific and/or developmentally regulated fashion. PMID- 2528732 TI - Immune function studies of alpha-1-acid glycoprotein. PMID- 2528731 TI - Deletion of the cytoplasmic region of the CD3 epsilon subunit does not prevent assembly of a functional T-cell receptor. AB - The T-cell receptor (TCR) is a molecular complex comprised of a clonally restricted, immunoglobulin-like heterodimer (Ti), responsible for specific antigen recognition, and a set of monomorphic polypeptide CD3 subunits, termed gamma, delta, epsilon, zeta, and eta, presumed to be involved in transmembrane signaling events. To investigate the role of the CD3 epsilon subunit in signal transduction, we have transfected a murine hybridoma T-cell line with either wild type or variant human CD3 epsilon cDNA that encodes a protein lacking 49 of the 55 cytoplasmic amino acid residues. Both wild-type and truncated CD3 epsilon human proteins assemble with endogenous murine CD3/Ti subunits to form functional surface TCRs: Anti-human CD3 epsilon monoclonal antibodies bind exclusively to these chimeric TCRs and trigger interleukin 2 production from the murine cells. Thus, the CD3 epsilon cytoplasmic domain is not required for assembly of the multimeric TCR. Furthermore, it is dispensable for the transduction of a stimulus delivered to the external part of the molecule, suggesting that interaction between the transmembrane and/or external regions of the other TCR chains is a prerequisite for transmembrane signaling. PMID- 2528733 TI - Experimental demonstration in the rat of the role played by human alpha 1 glycoprotein (HAAG) in the nonlinearity of RU 486 pharmacokinetics in women. PMID- 2528734 TI - Cyproterone acetate in the management of prostatic cancer. PMID- 2528735 TI - EORTC protocol 30761: a randomized study of non-metastatic and metastatic prostatic cancer treated by cyproterone acetate versus diethylstilbestrol and medroxyprogesterone acetate. European Organization for Research on Treatment of Cancer Urological Group. PMID- 2528736 TI - Zoladex and flutamide vs orchidectomy: a phase III EORTC 30853 trial. EORTC Urological Group. PMID- 2528737 TI - 'Zoladex' versus 'Zoladex' plus flutamide in the treatment of advanced prostate cancer. First interim analysis of an international trial. International Prostate Cancer Study Group. AB - The first interim report of this multicentre prospective clinical trial to compare the efficacy of 'Zoladex' versus 'Zoladex' + flutamide in the treatment of advanced carcinoma of the prostate furnishes evidence of a reduction of the incidence of tumour flare within the first 4 weeks of therapy. The combination of 'Zoladex' and flutamide produced an earlier response in tumour markers (TAP, PAP) only. The combination, however, had no effect on subjective and objective response rates and had a negative effect on time to treatment failure. Flutamide produces a significant increase in toxicity and withdrawals due to toxicity. This interim analysis indicates that the continued administration of flutamide in combination with 'Zoladex' has no significant clinical benefit over that of 'Zoladex' alone. Further follow-up is required to determine whether combination treatment has any effect on time to treatment failure and survival. PMID- 2528738 TI - A comparison between surgical orchidectomy and the LHRH agonist 'Zoladex' (ICI 188630) in the treatment of metastatic cancer of the prostate. PMID- 2528739 TI - A phase III open randomized study of Zoladex 3.6 mg depot vs. DES 3 mg per day in untreated advanced prostate cancer: a West Midlands Urological Research Group Study. PMID- 2528740 TI - Decapeptyl in the treatment of advanced prostatic cancer: comparative study with pulpectomy. PMID- 2528741 TI - Short-term anti-androgen therapy and very long-acting depot gonadotrophin releasing hormone agonist for prostatic cancer. PMID- 2528742 TI - Initiation of LHRH monotherapy for prostate cancer. PMID- 2528743 TI - Mediators and the trauma induced cascade of immunologic defects. PMID- 2528745 TI - The T lymphocyte-mediated immune reaction in polytrauma. PMID- 2528744 TI - Monocyte dependent suppression of immunoglobulin synthesis in patients with major trauma. PMID- 2528746 TI - Influence of methylprednisolone pretreatment on coagulation, fibrinolysis, hemodynamics and cellular responses in porcine endotoxemia. PMID- 2528747 TI - First experience with immunomodulation in septic shock. PMID- 2528748 TI - Thymopentin (TP-5) in the treatment of the postburn and postoperative immunodeficiency syndrome. PMID- 2528749 TI - Manipulation of serotonin protects against an hypoxia-induced deficit of a passive avoidance response in rats. AB - The 5-HT antagonists ketanserin, mianserin, methysergide, and cyproheptadine and the 5-HT uptake inhibitors fluoxetine and zimeldine were evaluated for their ability to protect against an hypoxia-induced performance deficit in a passive avoidance (PA) task. The ability to retain a PA response was found to decrease as the oxygen concentration decreased with the largest retention deficit occurring at 6.5% O2. The 5-HT2 selective antagonists ketanserin (0.01-10.0 mg/kg SC) and mianserin (0.05-10.0 mg/kg SC) administered one minute after PA training produced dose-dependent increases in retention latencies following exposure to a 6.5% oxygen environment. Peak effective doses (PED) for ketanserin and mianserin were 3.0 mg/kg SC and 0.05 mg/kg SC, respectively. In contrast, methysergide (0.05 30.0 mg/kg SC) and cyproheptadine (0.05-7.0 mg/kg SC), antagonists that show less affinity for the 5-HT2 receptor subtype, were not effective in preventing the hypoxia-induced amnesia. Inhibition of 5-HT reuptake by fluoxetine (0.01-1.0 mg/kg SC) produced dose-dependent increases in retention latencies with a PED of 0.05 mg/kg SC while zimeldine (0.1-10.0 mg/kg SC), another 5-HT reuptake inhibitor, had no effect on the amnesia. The results of this study suggest that modification of 5-HT after exposure to hypoxia can ameliorate a performance deficit in an animal model of learning and memory. PMID- 2528750 TI - Relative importance of the dopaminergic system in haloperidol-catalepsy and the anticataleptic effect of antidepressants and methamphetamine in rats. AB - The mechanisms involved in haloperidol (HPD)-catalepsy in rat and the effect of antidepressants and methamphetamine (MA) were studied. HPD-catalepsy, as measured by high bar test, lasted for 6-8 min. MA, imipramine (IMP), nomifensine (NOM) and mianserin (MIAN) reduced the duration of catalepsy on IP injection. Electrolytic lesion of the caudate-putamen (CP) and nucleus accumbens (ACC) extensively reduced HPD-catalepsy. Microinjection of MA and NOM into ACC had a similar effect. In the medial amygdala and CP, only MA displayed anticataleptic activity. Zimelidine did not reduce the duration of catalepsy. These results suggest that dopaminergic systems play a key role in mediating HPD-catalepsy and the anticataleptic activity of MA and NOM. PMID- 2528751 TI - Time-gated fluorescence spectroscopy of the tumor localizing fraction of HpD in the presence of cationic surfactant. AB - Time-gated fluorescence spectroscopy was performed on the tumor localizing fraction (TLF) of HpD in buffer at different concentrations of cationic surfactant. This technique obtains emission spectra with programmable delay relative to the excitation pulse. According to the measured fluorescence decay time constants (approximately 0.7, approximately 3 and approximately 15 ns) three gates were considered, delayed by 0, 5 and 18 ns, respectively, to evaluate the contribution of the emitting molecular species to the spectra. Simultaneous to these measurements, fluorescence decay waveforms and time-integrated spectra were also detected. In buffer and in detergent micelles the fluorescence spectra are given by the superposition of the emission of the different molecular species present in the solution, and no appreciable interaction among the chromophores is observed. On the contrary, in the pre-micellar range of the surfactant, evidence for the existence of an energy transfer mechanism was found. This effect seems to be related to the configurational state of the TLF polymeric chains and depends on the relative TLF/surfactant concentration. PMID- 2528752 TI - Singlet oxygen generation of porphyrins, chlorins, and phthalocyanines. AB - The production of singlet oxygen was measured indirectly for three classes of photosensitizers: porphyrins (Photofrin II, TPPS4), chlorins (MACE, DACE), and a phthalocyanine (CASPc). Buffered solutions of sensitizers and singlet oxygen acceptors were irradiated with a CW dye laser and the oxygen depletion was monitored electrochemically with a Clark-type microelectrode. A comparison of oxygen-depletion rate constants and quantum efficiencies yields the order of efficiency of the sensitizers: TPPS4 greater than MACE greater than PII greater than DACE greater than CASPc. For singlet oxygen acceptors the order was: furfuryl alcohol greater than imidazole greater than tryptophan. CHO cell suspensions were also used as acceptors. Here the order of efficiency (per absorbed photon) was PII greater than MACE approximately CASPc. Expressed in terms of oxygen depletion per cell the order was CASPc approximately PII greater than MACE. When performing cell clonogenicity studies the order of efficiencies, expressed as percentage cell kill per unit weight of sensitizer, was CASPc greater than PII greater than MACE approximately DACE. The discrepancy between the efficiencies of sensitizers to generate singlet oxygen and their cytotoxicity was explained in terms of photodegradation (for the chlorins), intracellular localization (for PII), and contributions from a Type I mechanism (for CASPc). PMID- 2528753 TI - Distribution and elimination of Photofrin II in mice. AB - The distribution and elimination of [14C]PII, the radioisotopically-labeled equivalent of the mixture of porphyrins known as Photofrin II used in the photodynamic treatment of solid tumors, were determined in tumor-free and SMT-F tumor-bearing DBA/2 Ha-DD mice. Following i.p. injection, drug was absorbed from the peritoneum with a half-life of about 1 h; elimination from plasma was rapid, declining about 1.4 logs in concentration over 48 h following i.v. administration. However, some [14C]-activity was still detectable after 75 days. Normal tissues take up the drug within about 7.5 h after administration, with peak concentrations distributed as follows: liver, adrenal gland, urinary bladder greater than pancreas, kidney, spleen greater than stomach, bone, lung, heart greater than muscle much greater than brain. Only skeletal muscle, brain, and skin located contralaterally to subcutaneously implanted SMT-F tumors had peak [14C]-activities lower than tumor tissue; skin overlying SMT-F tumors showed concentrations not significantly different (P greater than 0.3) from tumor. After 75 days all tissues examined retained some fraction of [14C]-activity, ranging from 16% for kidney to 61% for spleen, of the initial peak tissue levels. The primary route of elimination of Photofrin II was through the bile-gut pathway, with greater than 59% of the administered [14C]-activity recovered in the feces, and only about 6% in the urine, over 192 h. HPLC analyses of fecal extracts showed that mostly monomeric and other low molecular weight porphyrin components of Photofrin II were eliminated. The higher molecular weight oligomeric fractions of Photofrin II were retained in liver and spleen up to 14 days after injection. PMID- 2528754 TI - A component analysis of the effects of DPAT on male rat sexual behavior. AB - Male rat sexual behavior was examined in a variety of tests following a single acute IP injection of the serotonin1A (5-HT1A) receptor agonist 8-hydroxy-2-(di-n propylamino)tetralin (DPAT). The objective was to determine the effects of 5-HT1A receptor stimulation on the components of sexual behavior (arousal/motivation, erection and ejaculation) using this prototypical 5-HT1A ligand. In the ex copula genital reflex test, DPAT dramatically inhibited ejaculation and the display of penile erections. When examined in the mating behavior test, DPAT caused a significant reduction in intromission frequency (IF), ejaculation latency (EL), intercopulatory intervals (ICI) and postejaculatory interval (PEI). The decrease in IF and EL indicated a lowering of the behavioral-ejaculatory threshold, while the reduction in ICI and PEI indicated a stimulation of two aspects of sexual arousal. Further tests, however, revealed complexities. Using the mounting test (with genital anesthesia) as an assessment of sexual arousal, no effect of DPAT was found. Collection and examination of the coagulated ejaculates resulting from mating (copulatory plugs) provided evidence of an impairment in ejaculation, as a result of DPAT treatment. The data suggests that 5-HT1A receptor stimulation lowers the behavioral-ejaculatory threshold despite inhibition of ejaculation in and ex copula; as well as stimulating specific aspects of sexual arousal. It remains to be determined whether the effects on arousal were either due to nonselectivity as currently believed or because 5-HT1A receptor stimulation affects alpha 2-adrenoceptor activity by some as yet undefined mechanism; and as a result modulates sexual arousal. PMID- 2528755 TI - Acidification capacity of the kidneys and aging. AB - The authors studied the acidification capacity of the kidneys in 60 healthy subjects aged 18-70 years after a single load of NH4Cl in a dose of 0.1 g/kg. The acidification load was followed by a significant increase in NH4+ excretion in the first five hours afterwards in young individuals (18-30 years). In subjects aged over 50, changes in NH4+ excretion were nonsignificant under these conditions. Titratable acid excretion rose significantly after the given acidification load in subjects aged 18-60 years; in older subjects it no longer increased significantly. Changes in titratable acid excretion displayed a significant correlation to the renal excretion of phosphates. The findings indicate that the diminished capacity of older subjects to increase titratable acid excretion after an acute NH4Cl load is due to an insufficient decrease in the tubular resorption of phosphates. Renal capacity for adequate reduction of the urine pH after a NH4Cl load was unimpaired. PMID- 2528757 TI - Changes induced in adrenergic lipolysis by the administration of diethylstilboestrol, oestradiol and clomiphene. AB - The authors studied changes in adrenergic lipolysis in the epididymal adipose tissue of rats to which diethylstilboestrol and oestradiol combined with the anti oestrogen clomiphene were administered. The maximum lipid-mobilizing effect of isoprenaline was increased not only by subcutaneously administered diethylstilboestrol, but also by the highest dose of the antioestrogen clomiphene used (p.o., 200 micrograms.kg-1 b.w.). Under the given experimental conditions, with 4 1/2 h incubation of adipose tissue, clomiphene was also effective when added in vitro. Its own oestrogenic effect probably stimulated the lipid mobilizing action of isoprenaline. On combining the administration of increasing doses of clomiphene (p.o., 1-5 days) with a constant dose of oestradiol (200 micrograms.kg-1, s.c. on the 8th day, i.e. 24 h before the actual experiment), changes in isoprenaline lipolysis depended on the dose of clomiphene. In low doses clomiphene inhibited the stimulating effect of subsequently administered oestradiol on isoprenaline-induced lipolysis, but in large doses (100 and 200 micrograms.kg-1 daily) it potentiated, together with oestradiol, the lipid mobilizing effect of isoprenaline. The results show that the non-steroid oestrogen diethylstilboestrol and the antioestrogen clomiphene may be included among the hormones capable of altering the response of adipose tissue to sympathomimetics (isoprenaline). We attribute the fact that clomiphene acted either as an antagonist or as an agonist of oestradiol to its combined oestrogenic and anti-oestrogenic effects. PMID- 2528756 TI - Effect of the parenteral administration of amino acid solutions in different phases after partial hepatectomy on the initiation and development of liver regeneration in rats. AB - Amino acid solutions enriched with branched-chain amino acids or pure branched chain amino acid solutions were administered parenterally to female laboratory rats (pre-operative weight 230 +/- 30 g) which had been subjected to 65-70% partial hepatectomy (PH), and specific liver DNA activity, the hepatocyte mitotic index and other indicators of the initiation of liver regeneration were studied. Both solutions were infused in an hourly dose of 3.3 ml/kg body weight, during the following postoperative intervals: 1-6, 7-12, 1-12, 1-18 and 1-24 hours. The control rats continued to be fed on the standard laboratory diet after the operation. The results show that the infusion of an amino acid solution enriched with branched-chain amino acids had an inhibitory effect on the onset of DNA synthesis in the liver 18 hours after partial hepatectomy whatever the administration interval. The situation in the case of pure branched-chain amino acid solutions was the same. Twenty-four hours after PH, neither type of solution, irrespective of the infusion interval, was followed by an increase in DNA synthesis compared with the controls fed on the standard laboratory diet. Neither the hepatocyte mitotic index, nor the total liver DNA concentration, showed any changes indicative of stimulation of the initiation of liver regeneration. An infusion stress effect, evaluated from the decrease in the weight of the thymus, was found chiefly in the case of infusions lasting 12 h or longer. PMID- 2528758 TI - Intermittent high altitude--induced changes in energy metabolism in the rat myocardium and their reversibility. AB - Selected enzyme activities of energy metabolism were studied in the myocardium of laboratory rats exposed to intermittent altitude hypoxia (IAH, 4-8 h daily, 5 days a week, in a hypobaric chamber, stepwise up to 7,000 m). No significant differences were found between the right and the left ventricle in the control animals. Glucose-utilizing capacity (HK) and capacity for the synthesis and degradation of lactate (LDH) increased significantly in both ventricles during acclimatization. The other enzyme activities associated with anaerobic glycolysis (TPDH, GPDH) and those linked up in aerobic metabolism (MDH, CS) did not change significantly. On the other hand, the ability to break down fatty acids (HOADH) decreased significantly. All the above changes in the enzyme profile were found after only 24 4-h exposures, in both the hypertrophic right ventricle and the unenlarged left ventricle. When the length of daily exposure was raised from 4 to 8 h, the above changes were not intensified and 45 days after the last exposure to IAH, none of the given activity values differed from those estimated in the corresponding control animals. PMID- 2528759 TI - Postnatal development of the high-affinity uptake of choline and of the synthesis of acetylcholine in rat heart atria. AB - Isolated heart atria from rats of different ages were incubated in a medium containing (14C)choline and the rates of the uptake of (14C)choline into the tissue and of its conversion to (14C)acetylcholine (ACh) were measured. The synthesis of (14C)ACh (expressed per 1 g of fresh weight) increased from birth until 30 days of age and diminished after 40 days of postnatal life. The rate of (14C)ACh synthesis was considerably diminished when Na+ was omitted from the incubation medium or when hemicholinium-3 was added to it; these effects of the absence of Na+ and of hemicholinium-3 were already manifest on the 1st day after birth, indicating that the sodium-dependent high-affinity uptake of choline is operative and takes part in the synthesis of ACh in the heart from the start of postnatal life (if not earlier). In newborn rats, 4% of the (14C)choline that had been taken up by the atria was converted to (14C)Ach; this proportion rose to 7 9% at the age of 20 and 30 days and in adulthood. The total uptake of (14C)choline expressed per whole atria kept increasing from birth till adulthood when related to the whole atria, but it diminished when related to 1 g of atrial weight. PMID- 2528760 TI - Dynamic effects of acute cooling in body temperature regulation of the euthermic warm-acclimated golden hamster (Mesocricetus auratus). AB - During the dynamic phase of external cooling of euthermic golden hamsters in the initial period of metabolic response, peripheral body temperature is the decisive control variable determining the level of metabolic heat production. Under these conditions the rate as well as the magnitude of the peripheral body temperature change constitute the effectual input to the controller of body temperature. The apparent sensitivity with which the regulator drives the metabolic response to unit change of the peripheral temperature is in an inverse relation to the rate of peripheral temperature change. This parameter, despite its limited significance can serve as a working index characterising the thermoregulatory system in different groups of experimental animals of the same species providing that the actual conditions of the experiment are comporting. PMID- 2528761 TI - Bilateral acute heart atrial auriectomy reduced diuresis and natriuresis following hypertonic sodium load in anaesthetized dogs. AB - Anaesthetized dogs were deprived of a portion of the atrial natriuretic factor producing tissue by bilateral acute heart atrial auriectomy. Their ability to respond by diuresis and natriuresis either to the expansion of extracellular fluid volume with isotonic saline (3% b.w.) or to hyperosmolality induced by hypertonic saline loading (0.13% b.w. of 20% NaCl solution) was subsequently reduced by about 50%. It is thus suggested that atrial natriuretic system may also play a role in osmoregulation by taking part in the promotion of renal sodium excretion. PMID- 2528762 TI - Radiation dose response of some gluconeogenic enzyme activities in rats. AB - Negative correlation was found between the activity of liver glucose-6 phosphatase (EC 3.1.3.9) and the increasing radiation dose 24 h after continuous irradiation of rats. A dose response of increased fructose-1,6-diphosphatase (EC 3.1.3.11) was not confirmed. PMID- 2528763 TI - Antimetrazol action and plasma levels of valproate in developing rats. AB - The duration of protective action of valproate (VPA, 400 mg/kg i.p.) against metrazol-induced seizures was studied in rats aged 7, 12, 18 and 90 days. Fifteen, protected. The results differed between the various age groups after longer intervals: The protection was longest in 18-day-old rats--seizures did not appear even six hours after VPA administration. On the contrary, all 7-day-old rat pups exhibited seizures two hours after VPA. Plasma levels of VPA were measured by means of gas chromatography in the same age groups after an identical dose of VPA. After a single injection of VPA a clear-cut two-peak curve of plasma level was found in all young groups, which may be due to an enterohepatic recirculation of VPA. The maximum plasma levels were lowest in 7-day-old rats, the three older groups exhibited similar values. Plasma half-life was longest in the youngest animals (9.24) and decreased with age; values for 18- and 901 day old rats did not differ (2.57 and 3.05 h respectively). No clear-cut correlation was found between the antimetrazol action and its plasma levels. PMID- 2528764 TI - Protective effect of oestradiol on the heart of rats exposed to acute ischaemia. AB - Sex-related differences in mortality from ischaemic heart disease are attributed chiefly to difference in the incidence of atherosclerosis. Little attention has been paid to the influence of sex hormones on resistance of the myocardium itself to acute ischaemia. Experiments on rats showed that isolated female hearts were more resistant than male hearts. A period of eight weeks spent at an altitude of 1,350 m raised heart resistance only in males. Conversely, gonadectomy abruptly reduced the resistance of the male heart to ischaemia, especially under conditions of mild altitude hypoxia. The administration of oestradiol to gonadectomized male rats largely abolished the disturbance caused by isolated gonadectomy. Since coronary vasoconstriction and vasospasm lead to temporary ischaemia and even to infarction, the above effect of the sex hormones may play a role in the increased incidence of heart attacks after the gonads have ceased to function. PMID- 2528765 TI - Effect of the administration of prostaglandins (PGE2) in the early postnatal period on closure of the ductus arteriosus in the laboratory rat. AB - Maintenance of a patent ductus arteriosus by means of prostaglandins enables the surgical correction of a congenital heart defect in infants to be postponed until a phase of development when the operation hazards are smaller. We investigated the pathophysiological consequences of this therapeutic measure in an experimental model in which E2 prostaglandin was administered to newborn laboratory rats. It was found that, physiologically, the ductus arteriosus (DA) closed progressively within 180 min after birth. The repeated administration of PGE2 (subcutaneously, 15 micrograms.kg-1 every 30 min from the 5th min after birth) blocked closure of the DA, which was still fully patent 300 min after birth. Histological tests showed no significant differences in the structure of the tunica media of the physiologically patent and the PGE2-treated DA. The results show that PGE2 also inhibit physiological closure of the DA in newborn rats. Long-term study of this pathophysiological process is at present impeded by the need for the continuous administration of prostaglandins. PMID- 2528766 TI - Hypoxic modulation of systolic blood pressure and urinary sodium excretion in spontaneously hypertensive rats after carotid body denervation. AB - To explore the role of arterial chemoreceptors, the effect of hypobaric hypoxia on urinary sodium excretion and systolic blood pressure was investigated in conscious spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) with carotid body denervation (CBD) or after sham-operation (SO). Denervation of the carotid bodies was performed by section of the carotid sinus nerves. Exposure to hypobaric hypoxia equivalent to high altitude of 4000 m led to a more pronounced decrease in systolic blood pressure in CBD-rats than in SO-rats. The pattern of urinary sodium excretion observed on the first two days of hypoxia in both groups was not affected by the chemodenervation. It is being suggested that arterial chemoreceptors do not play a critical role in blood pressure and natriuretic responses to hypobaric hypoxia in conscious SHR. PMID- 2528767 TI - Hypoxia and development of interneurones of the rat hippocampus. AB - Interneuronal connections are an important component of the integration circuits of the hippocampus. They are formed mostly postnatally, i.e. in a phase when their development can be strongly influenced by external environmental factors. In model postnatal hypoxia, a morphometric analysis showed reduction of the number of dendritic segments (chiefly 3rd order segments) in 18-day-old rats. The total length of the dendrites was unaltered, but mean segment length increased. Interneuron density in the experimental animals was higher, especially in the stratum radiatum, but pyramidal cell density was lower than in the controls. These findings are evidence that hypoxia has a complex effect on the microstructure of the hippocampus and that, in the long run, it can lead to impairment of the balance of the elementary processes of excitation and inhibition. PMID- 2528768 TI - pH, pCO2 and NADP changes during aerobic and anaerobic incubation of the brain cortex of young and adult rats. AB - Wistar rats of both sexes, aged 5 and 90-110 days, bred in the author's department, were used for experiments in which pH, pCO2 and NADP changes induced by incubating brain cortex homogenate (30 min at 37 degrees C) under aerobic and anaerobic conditions were studied. The medium was Sorensen's buffer solution, with succinate as substrate. NADP was assayed by determining glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity, which is NADP-dependent. The pH and pCO2 were determined with an ABL-2 radiometer (Denmark). The NADP extinction curves showed that the adult rat cortex, with or without substrate, always contained significantly less NADP under anaerobic conditions (the amount of its reduced form increased). In 5 day-old rats, the course of changes in the extinction curves was completely analogous to that for adult rats if the tissue was incubated without substrate; in the presence of substrate, the amount of the oxidized form, i.e. of NADP, decreased and there was no difference between the course of extinction changes under anaerobic and aerobic conditions. Similarly, the pH fell significantly less in 5-day-old rats during anaerobic incubation than in adult rats and was practically no different from the pH changes found during aerobic incubation. In addition, we found that the increase in pCO2 during anaerobic incubation of the brain cortex of 5-day-old rats was very small (also compared with aerobic conditions) whereas the increase in pCO2 under aerobic and anaerobic conditions in adult rats was the same.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528769 TI - Influence of instructions in multi-discrimination experiments on event related potentials. AB - The purpose of the experiment was to study the effects of psychological factors on slow brain potentials in relation to information processing and strategy establishment. Subjects were subjected to paired stimuli: A) two identical tone bursts (50 ms, 5000 Hz); B) two different stimuli the second (unconditioned) was a low pitched tone burst (50 ms, 500 Hz); C) only the warning stimulus was delivered to the subjects. In a first experiment, subjects (N = 10) were asked to detect and signal by a motor act the low pitched click (B); in a second experiment, subjects (N = 8) were to detect and signal in the same way the unconditioned tone burst omission (C). Results showed that the auditory event related potentials (ERP) obtained in the two experiments presented two components: a negative wave (N150) followed by a positive one (P270). Solely, the late positive component differed in topography during the two situations. A fronto-central Contingent Negative Variation (CNV) appeared in all the conditions for the two experiments while a Post Imperative Negative Variation was often obvious in the first experiment. PMID- 2528770 TI - Effects of the acute and chronic administration of chlordiazepoxide on the development of spontaneous motility in chick embryos. AB - The effects of the acute and chronic administration of chlordiazepoxide on spontaneous motility and on the reactivity of the generator of embryonic motility were studied in chick embryos from the 4th to the 19th day of incubation. 1. The acute administration of chlordiazepoxide (5 mg/kg e.w.) significantly depressed spontaneous motility from the 13th day of incubation. 2. The chronic administration of chlordiazepoxide (12.2 mg/kg e.w./24 h) from the 4th to the 8th, 12th and 16th day of incubation enhanced the reduction of the spontaneous motility of 17-day-old embryos. 3. The chronic administration of chlordiazepoxide significantly modified the activity of both activators (strychnine, metrazol, bicuculline, picrotoxin) and inhibitors (GABA, chlordiazepoxide) of the spontaneous motility of chick embryos. PMID- 2528771 TI - Effect of the parenteral administration of energy substrates in different postoperation phases on the initiation and development of liver regeneration in rats subjected to partial hepatectomy. AB - DNA specific activity in the liver, the total DNA content of the liver and the mitotic index of the hepatocytes were studied after the infusion of glucose or lipid emulsions in female laboratory rats with a mean pre-operation weight of 250 +/- 30 g after partial (65-70%) hepatectomy (PH). The infusions were administered in the early prereplication phase (the 1st to 6th hour after the operation), in the late prereplication phase (the 7th to 12th hour after the operation), or continuously from the 1st to the 12th, or the 1st to the 24th, hour after partial hepatectomy. The effect of these parenterally administered energy substrates on the initiation of liver regeneration was evaluated 18 and 24 hours after partial hepatectomy. The results indicate that the infusion of glucose, in any interval after the operation, inhibited the initial phases of liver DNA synthesis (18 h after PH), but not its further development (24 h after PH). Neither the mitotic index of the hepatocytes, nor the total DNA content of the liver differed from the control groups in the case of rats given a glucose infusion. In the experimental groups given lipid emulsions, inhibition of liver DNA synthesis was recorded 18 h after PH only when the infusions were given from the 1st to the 12th or the 1st to the 18th hour after PH. The total DNA content of the liver 18 h after PH was raised in all the experimental groups.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528772 TI - The pharmacokinetics of intravenously administered diazepam in the rat influenced by composition of the lymph. AB - Diazepam, a drug with hydrophobic properties, was used as a model drug for the study of its distribution after i.v. administration into the central lymph of the rat. The intestinal lymph, which prevails in the central lymph, was modified for the presence of total lipids chylomicrons by fasting and a normal or an artificial diet (olive oil). Lymphatic levels of diazepam in all three experimental conditions exceeded the corresponding blood levels, being lowest in the fasted group, higher in the normally fed animals and highest in the oil-fed group. Experimental blood and lymphatic data were subjected to pharmacokinetic analysis. The changes in the parameters were found to depend quantitatively upon the presence of chylomicrons in the lymph. Lymphatic availability of diazepam in the central lymph is stimulated by an increased content of the chylomicrons fraction of the lymph. PMID- 2528773 TI - Effect of intraperitoneal administration of amino acids on the food intake of piglets on a liquid diet during the first month after birth. AB - The effect of single intraperitoneal 1 g.kg-1 doses of a solution of 20 amino acids (AA) on food intake was investigated in 20 piglets examined repeatedly between 2 and 26 days of age. The animals were reared individually from day 1 after birth in cages and bottle-fed a liquid diet nine times per day at two-hour intervals from 6 to 22 h. Although amino acid administration did not significantly affect plasma concentrations of total free AA throughout the experiment (as measured just before and 2 and 5 h after AA administration in blood withdrawn from the external jugular vein) it did produce a downward trend in food intake of piglets at 9-10 d of age. In older animals, the depressive effect on food intake was significantly greater and lasted longer. It is suggested that the aminostatic component of food intake regulation in piglets does not begin to operate until the weaning period. PMID- 2528774 TI - Influence of acute hypoxia upon brilliant cresyl blue-induced disintegration of erythrocytes in rabbits and cats. AB - The disintegration of erythrocytes by brilliant cresyl blue was studied in rabbits and cats during two hypoxic periods resulting in apnoea which was followed by artificial ventilation and recovery. The rate of erythrocyte disintegration was measured after 2 hours' incubation in isotonic NaCl or Krebs Ringer solution plus brilliant cresyl blue (0.5 mmol.l-1). Significant increases of disintegration rates were found in rabbits during recovery in both incubation solutions. Erythrocytes in cats seemed to be more resistant to acute hypoxia, as their disintegration rate rose only in isotonic NaCl solution, and that only transiently. Brilliant cresyl blue--induced erythrocyte disintegration in cats did not differ from the control values during 10 min of spontaneous breathing after the first and the second period of hypoxia in the isotonic NaCl solution, but it was significantly lower in Krebs-Ringer solution. The possible factors influencing the erythrocyte disintegration rate in acute hypoxia are discussed. PMID- 2528775 TI - The effect of time, 2-mercaptoethanol and inhibitors of proteases on isolation of cardiac myosin and its properties. AB - Myosin was isolated from the ventricular myocardium of adult rats and the effect of time, 2-mercaptoethanol and inhibitors of proteases was investigated on its properties. It was found that the storage of cardiac muscle up to 4 hours does not influence the myosin ATPase, the electrophoretic pattern of light chains of myosin or the pattern of peptides produced by digestion of myosin with chymotrypsin. Neither does the presence of pepstatin and phenylmethyl sulfonylfluoride during myosin preparation influence the activity of myosin ATPase. It was found that the presence of 2-mercaptoethanol during myosin preparation enhances myosin ATPase of the product. This myosin was more stable when kept at 4 degrees C for four days. PMID- 2528776 TI - A national survey of complications associated with suction lipectomy: a comparative study. AB - In March of 1988, a survey form was sent to all 2695 U.S. and Canadian members of the American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons. Nine-hundred and thirty-five members responded, for a response rate of 34.7 percent. The purpose of the survey was to ascertain the total number of major liposuction, dermatolipectomy, and abdominoplasty procedures performed from January of 1984 to January of 1988 and to compare nine specific complications that are associated with these three procedures. The 935 surgeons reported a total of 112,756 procedures performed: major liposuction (75,591), dermatolipectomy (10,603), and abdominoplasty (26,562). Nine major complications were surveyed: mortality, myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular accident or transient ischemic attack, pulmonary thromboembolism, fat embolism, major skin loss, anesthesia complication, transfusion complications, and deep venous thrombosis. The findings in this survey showed, when comparing these three procedures and the nine types of complications, that the complication rate for major suction lipectomy was 0.1 percent, for dermatolipectomy 0.9 percent, and for abdominoplasty 2.0 percent. Fat emboli did not prove to be a significant factor associated with any of the three procedures. However, of the 15 reported deaths (major liposuction 2, dermatolipectomy 2, and abdominoplasty 11), pulmonary thromboembolism was the causative factor in 9 deaths (60 percent). Based on these analyzed data, we feel that major suction lipectomy has a low complication rate and is a reasonably safe procedure. PMID- 2528777 TI - Effects of stimulation and blockade of dopamine receptor subtypes on the discriminative stimulus properties of cocaine. AB - The involvement of dopamine (DA) receptor subtypes in the behavioral effects of CNS stimulants was studied in rats trained to discriminate cocaine from saline. In substitution tests, the stimulus effects of 10 mg/kg of this substance generalized to d-amphetamine (0.25-1.0 mg/kg) and the selective D2 against LY 171555 (0.05-0.25 mg/kg) but not to the D1 agonist SKF-38393 (5.0-15.0 mg/kg); in combination tests, the D1 antagonist Sch-23390 (0.0625-0.5 mg/kg) significantly blocked, and the D2 antagonist spiperone (0.25-0.5 mg/kg) partially blocked the cocaine cue. These data suggest that the involvement of DA systems in the behavioral effects of cocaine is more complex than either D1 or D2 receptor activation; for example, the stimulus properties of this substance might involve both D1 and D2 receptor activation. PMID- 2528778 TI - Drug inhibition indicates a single-site model of the 5-HT uptake site/antidepressant binding site in rat and human brain. AB - Drug inhibition against [3H]paroxetine binding to rat cortex and human putamen was investigated in saturation experiments. The addition of 5-HT, imipramine, citalopram and clomipramine all produced changes in apparent binding affinity (Kd) without changes in the number of binding sites (Bmax). These data suggest that there is no heterogeneity of specific [3H]paroxetine binding, supporting a single site model of the 5-HT uptake site and antidepressant binding site. PMID- 2528779 TI - An evaluation of the elevated plus-maze test using the novel anxiolytic buspirone. AB - Previous work suggests that the elevated plus-maze test of anxiety is insensitive to the anxiolytic effects of the novel anxiolytic buspirone, which shows an anxiogenic-like profile in this test. This paper examines some of the possible reasons for this and the role that buspirone's agonist activity at 5-HT1A receptors plays in this effect. A variety of 5-HT1A receptor agonists (p aminophenylethyl-m-trifluromethylphenyl piperazine, (+)- and (-)-MDL 72832) showed similar activity to buspirone, as did the related compound ipsapirone. (-) MDL 72832 was more potent than (+)-MDL 72832, in keeping with its stereoselective action at 5-HT1A receptors. The alpha 2-adrenoceptor antagonist properties of 1 pyrimidinyl piperazine, a metabolite of buspirone, did not appear to be relevant to this action of buspirone as neither it nor idazoxan showed an anxiogenic-like profile. Neither chronic treatment with buspirone (1 mg/kg SC twice a day for 16 days) nor depletion of 5-HT with p-chlorophenylalanine changed the anxiogenic like activity of buspirone in the elevated plus-maze test. These results suggest that an agonist action at postsynaptic 5-HT1A receptors mediates the anxiogenic like effects of buspirone in the elevated plus-maze test and that this test may either be insensitive to certain classes of anxiolytics or is measuring something unrelated to human anxiety states. PMID- 2528780 TI - On the selectivity and specificity of the antagonism of apomorphine-induced suppression of exploration by sulpiride. AB - Ten behavioural variables were recorded by means of an automatic holeboard apparatus. The behaviour of rats placed for the first time in the apparatus was recorded for 10 min. The suppression of this exploratory behaviour by the dopamine agonist apomorphine (0.01-0.1 mg/kg) was shown to be reversible in a surmountable fashion by the dopamine antagonist sulpiride (2 and 4 mg/kg). Suppression of exploration induced by clonidine (0.05-0.2 mg/kg) or diazepam (2 mg/kg) was not antagonised by sulpiride (10 and 50 mg/kg, respectively). The partial dopamine D1-agonist SKF 38393 (2-20 mg/kg) also suppressed exploration but neither sulpiride (20 mg/kg) nor the D1-antagonist SCH 23390 (0.02 mg/kg) could antagonise this effect. The data show that dopamine agonist induced suppression of exploration display pharmacological characteristics of a receptor mediated response and the data support our previous suggestion that these receptors may be pharmacologically distinct from other dopamine D2-receptors. PMID- 2528782 TI - Oocyte retrieval in an in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer program: comparison of four methods. AB - The records of 191 patients involved in 316 treatment cycles over 3 years in an in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer program were reviewed. Follicular aspiration, oocyte retrieval, pregnancy rates, technical difficulty, and complications were compared in four oocyte retrieval methods: 117 laparoscopic retrievals, 116 ultrasound (US)-guided percutaneous transvesical retrievals, 43 US-guided transvaginal retrievals, and 40 combined US and laparoscopic retrievals. The mean number of aspirated follicles (9.14) was greatest in the transvaginal retrieval group, but the ratio of oocytes to punctured follicles was not statistically greater in any of the groups. The overall clinical pregnancy rate per cycle was highest in the transvaginal retrieval group: 12 of 43 cycles resulted in pregnancy, or 27.9%. The number of delivered babies (16.3%) was also highest in the transvaginal retrieval group. US-guided transvaginal oocyte retrieval is recommended as the method of choice. PMID- 2528781 TI - Striatal and frontal cortex binding of 11-C-labelled clozapine visualized by positron emission tomography (PET) in drug-free schizophrenics and healthy volunteers. AB - The binding of 11C-labelled clozapine in the brain was studied in three drug-free schizophrenic patients and in three healthy volunteers. High radioactivities were found in the striatum and in the frontal cortex. The rate constant k3, which is proportional to receptor association rate and the number of receptors, was lower in the frontal cortex compared to the striatum. No obvious difference between the two brain areas was seen for the dissociation rate constant from the receptors (k4). Two schizophrenic patients were reexamined after pretreatment with haloperidol, one after 6 weeks of treatment with a low oral dose, the other one after an IV injection 1 h before 11C-clozapine was given. After haloperidol pretreatment, the binding of 11C-clozapine in striatum and frontal cortex was reduced, more pronounced in the striatum, indicating competition for D-2 dopamine binding sites. Our finding indicates that clozapine has an affinity for a receptor population in the frontal cortex that is predominantly not of the dopamine-D2 type. This feature might be of importance for the unique clinical profile of the drug. PMID- 2528783 TI - Leukotrienes cause mesenteric vasoconstriction and hemoconcentration in rats without activating thromboxane receptors. AB - Thromboxane A2/prostaglandin H2 (TP)-receptor activation has been reported to participate in some of the responses to peptide leukotrienes (LT). We examined the effect of TP-receptor antagonism on LT-induced mesenteric vasoconstriction and hemoconcentration in anesthetized rats. The antagonist used in these studies, SQ 30,741, was shown to have high selectivity and potency for vascular TP receptors in the rat. Arterial (i.a.) injection of LTC4 and D4 elicited dose dependent and transient reductions in mesenteric blood flow without changes in arterial blood pressure. These responses were unaffected by a dose of SQ 30,741 which produced approximately 99% inhibition of similar responses to U-46,619. In contrast, LT-induced mesenteric vasoconstriction was inhibited approximately 90% by two LT antagonists, LY 171,883 and SKF 104,353. In other experiments i.v. infusion of LTD4 caused increases in hematocrit and reductions in arterial blood pressure that were not influenced by SQ 30,741. These data suggest that increases in mesenteric vascular resistance and hemoconcentration in response to LTs are not the result of TP-receptor activation. PMID- 2528784 TI - Effect of prostaglandin E in multiple experimental models. VI. Effect on T-cell subsets. AB - Burn injuries have been shown to impair immune function. One of the hypotheses for the etiology of the immunosuppression is that burn injuries result in an elevation of prostaglandin E (PGE) levels which then impair leukocyte function. We evaluated the effect of PGE levels on immune function in multiple animal models utilizing T cell subset levels for our immunologic measurements. Elevations in PGE levels were achieved by administering 16,16-dimethyl prostaglandin E (dPGE) and reductions by administering indomethacin. The animal models included burned rats, burned-septic rats, and nonburned rats. Neither indomethacin nor dPGE administration resulted in alterations of any of the T cell subset populations in our models. PMID- 2528785 TI - Effect of fish-fat or beef-fat supplemented diet on immune complex-induced enteropathy in the rat. AB - In contrast to animals on a beef fat-supplemented diet (BFD), animals maintained on a fish fat-supplemented diet (FFD) incorporate increased amounts of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) into membrane phospholipids. Generation of lipid mediators from such tissues favors the formation of compounds with less pro inflammatory activity than are derived from tissues poor in EPA. Nevertheless, the FFD has not had a uniformly beneficial effect on animal models of inflammatory diseases. We previously showed that intravenous injection of rat anti-BSA-BSA complexes (IC) prepared in 5x antigen excess rapidly induced a striate pattern of serosal (to mucosal) hemorrhage and vascular congestion throughout the small intestine. In this study, we tested the effect of a BFD and FFD on immune complex-induced enteropathy. After six (Expt. 1) or eight weeks (Expt. 2) on the diet, rats were injected with IC and the severity of serosal hyperemia in the small intestine was scored. In some FFD, no lesions were seen under conditions which elicited moderate to severe lesions in BFD rats. In Expt. 1 involving 22 rats and in Expt. 2 involving 28 rats, those on the FFD had a significantly lower composite lesional score compared to those on the BFD, p less than 0.005 and p less than 0.005, respectively. These results indicate that the FFD had a beneficial effect on IC-induced enteropathy. It is suggested that this effect of the FFD may be mediated primarily by a reduction in availability of platelet-activating factor. PMID- 2528786 TI - [The importance of upper respiratory tract infections in determining chronic pulmonary diseases]. AB - Being a general report, the summary is made by the title itself. The author presents the structural and functional interdependence of the superior and inferior respiratory ways within the nonspecific chronic diseases. After a short history with regards to the interest shown by clinicians, in time, towards the pathogenic link between the superior and inferior respiratory ways, physiopathology is brought up to date, in a synthetic form--the immunologic processes concerned in the chronic rhino-sinusal-bronchial affections of an infectious and allergic kind, the existent clinical and therapeutic interdependence, the data in the literature being presented through the author's experience. PMID- 2528787 TI - [Lingual hemangioma--research and treatment limits and possibilities (a clinical case)]. AB - The vascular tumours represent a special pathology in the otorhinolaryngologic practice, taking, many times, an interdisciplinary aspect. The authors present a case of a lingual hemangioma, that has been surgically treated in the ORL section of the Sibiu County Hospital, thus bringing forward, with reference to the presented case, the pathology of the vascular tumours in the ORL domain, that is the vascular tumours of the buccal cavity. As the conservatory methods of treatment include the possibility of a relapse, we consider that, in some cases, surgery is to be preferred. PMID- 2528788 TI - [The current treatment of epistaxis]. AB - The authors present the results of a study regarding 1906 cases of epistaxis admitted in the Coltea ORL Clinic, of a total of 25,246 admitted (5.56%) between January 1, 1983-December 31, 1987. Here are presented the distribution of the cases on years of study and etiologic types, sex, age groups and sex, causes (it is remarked the dominant incidence of high blood pressure--59.24%), seasons, with a higher frequency in the cold season, frequency related to professions and the place of the nasal fossa as well as the place of the vascular break--a fore place or a hinder place. The treatment applied to the admitted patients is charted on a diagram, the authors discussing the therapeutical measures that must be applied in the cases of serious epistaxis, as well as epistaxis at patients with multiple health problems, underlining the value of the interdisciplinary collaboration. There are also discussed the infectious complications of the nasal wads and great stress is laid upon avoiding errors in therapeutical measures. PMID- 2528789 TI - [Hemorrhagic accidents in palatal tonsil surgery]. AB - Here is shown that, even though tonsillectomy is the most frequently performed operation in ORL, it may sometimes cause severe hemorrhaging that could imperil the patient's life if not rapidly and competently dealt with. Tonsil hemorrhaging is favoured by the anatomical situating, tonsils being greatly vascularized, as well as by the specific of the pharyngeal wounds. There are discussed here the cases in the Bistrita ORL Clinic between 1981-1987. PMID- 2528790 TI - [Clinical and therapeutic aspects of headache of vascular origin in children]. AB - The authors present the problem of vascular headache at children: headaches caused by high blood pressure, aneurysm and other intracranial vascular malformations of the intracranial venous sinuses thrombosis (here, the determining factors are the infectious and inflammatory factors). Here are mentioned, one by one, the kinds of headaches, following the a/m classifications, with the clinical particularities and the therapeutical indications. There are reviewed a series of other causes of the headaches at children: headache caused by muscular contractions, the post traumatic headache, headache caused by cerebral tumours, by nasosinusal causes, ocular headache, headache caused by infections or metabolic diseases, and the psychogenic headache. PMID- 2528792 TI - [Cases of serous otitis admitted to the ENT Department of the V. Babes Hospital over the last 7 years]. AB - A total number of 283 patients with serious otitis were admitted during the latter 7 years. In more than 98% of cases the auditory function was integrally recovered to values prior to the disease following the treatment of tubal dysfunction and serious otitis. In case of complete irreversible block at the level of the tributary ototubal lymph nodes perforation of the ear drum and otomastoid superinfections may occur. Stress is laid on the importance of a correct diagnosis and timely intervention before severe alteration of the auditory function. PMID- 2528791 TI - [Peripheral-type acute cochleovestibular involvement in the Klippel-Feil syndrome. Comments on 2 clinical cases]. AB - The authors present the clinical observations performed on two medium aged patients with a Klippel-Feil syndrome met with during 1980-1987, in the polyclinic and the hospital. The patients presented themselves to the doctor with acute vestibular suffering of a peripheric type, constantly accompanied by bilateral, symmetric loss of hearing, in various degrees, and, sometimes, associated with neurological signs and some laboratory modifications. The cochleovestibular phenomena made themselves conspicuous together with acute cervical arthritic attacks. If following the treatment with cerebral vasodilator, sympatholytic, analgetic, antiphlogistic, antiemetic and neurotrophic medication the vestibular syndrome was easily compensated and the acute arthritic phenomena improved, the loss of hearing as well as other clinical elements of the syndrome persisted. Concerning these two clinical cases there are presented a series of physiopathologic considerations linked to the importance of the vertebral-basilar periarterial sympathetic system in regulating the dynamics and the biochemistry of the labyrinth liquids. We consider as interesting the presentation of these cases, as being so rare in the ORL practice. PMID- 2528793 TI - [Esophageal diverticula. General considerations and case presentation]. AB - Starting with two clinical cases with superior oesophageal diverticuli, the authors review the older and more recent data in the literature concerning the etiology, pathogeny, the experimental study as well as the clinical one of the oesophageal diverticulosis. In the end there are presented some conclusions regarding this affection and its treatment. PMID- 2528795 TI - [Complex coronary angioplasty. Are the terms multi-vessel, multi-site and multiple dilatations synonymous?]. PMID- 2528794 TI - [Maxillary antrum mucocele. Comments on 3 cases]. AB - After presenting 3 cases of maxillary sinus mucocele, met with all along 22 years, the authors bring forth some etiopathogenic, clinic and radiologic considerations, shown through the data in literature. They underline the complex, polymorphic, uncharacteristic radiological and clinical aspect. The exploratory puncture is of real help for a precise diagnosis, in this case, and is easy to perform. The treatment is always surgical, without excluding the possibility of a recurrence if the cyst caul has not been completely removed. PMID- 2528797 TI - [Complex coronary angioplasty (II). Dilatation of multiple lesions in single vessel and multi-vessel coronary disease]. AB - Angioplasty (PTCA) was successfully performed in 404/428 patients (94%). Two lesions were attempted in 74%; three in 21%; and four or more in 6% of cases. Significant complications included: 11 (2.5%) transmural infarctions, 9 (2.1%) emergency surgeries, and 6 (1.4%) mortalities. A lesion recurrence occurred in 106/404 patients (26%) with 81/89 patients (91%) having a successful second PTCA. A second recurrence occurred in 15/81 patients (19%) with 13/15 patients having a successful third PTCA. Follow-up (mean: 28.3 months) showed an improved anginal status in 83% of patients. The probability of survival at 51 months was 93%. Multiple lesion PTCA in carefully selected patients has a good success rate, an acceptable complication rate, and a reasonable expectation of satisfactory long term results, with or without the need for subsequent PTCA procedures. PMID- 2528796 TI - [Complex angioplasty. (I). Single dilatation versus multiple dilatation in patients with multi-vessel coronary disease]. AB - Coronary angioplasty was successfully performed in 658/752 multivessel disease patients. One lesion was attempted in 338 patients (45%); two or more in 414 patients (55%). Complications occurred in 39 patients (5.2%): 19 (2.5%) had a transmural infarction, 26 (3.5%) urgent surgery, and 14 (1.9%) died. Recurrence occurred in 233/658 (35%) patients with 162/171 (94.7%) having a successful second angioplasty. Clinical improvement (follow-up: 31 months) remained in 81% of successful patients. Survival was not affected by the number of dilations performed but was adversely affected by the presence of prior surgery and ventricular dysfunction. Angioplasty can be an effective treatment without the need to dilate all vessels. PMID- 2528798 TI - [Evaluation of small branch occlusion and myocardial damage related to angioplasty. Usefulness of determining serum CK-MB]. AB - In 65 consecutive cases of PTCA we prospectively looked for the appearance of myocardial necrosis during PTCA and for the presence of occlusion of collateral branches arising from the inflation area. Premedication was oral in 44 and intramuscular in 21 cases. CK-MB was abnormally increased in 6 cases: 3 with total occlusion of the dilated artery, 1 with transient coronary occlusion, and 1 with occlusion of a collateral branch greater than 1 mm diameter; in the sixth case the increased CK-MB peak was attributed to repeated defibrillations. Only 1 collateral branch less than 1 mm was occluded during PTCA though myocardial necrosis was not detected. Only collateral branches arising from the dilated stenosis were affected (occlusion and/or appearance of new stenosis) by PTCA (4/24 vs 0/162; p less than 0.01). There were no significant differences in CK-MB peak between both types of premedication. Thus we conclude that: 1) in PTCA myocardial necrosis is only induced by occlusion of coronary arteries greater than 1 mm diameter; 2) only collateral branches arising from the dilated stenosis are at risk of occlusion; 3) estimation of CK-MB pre-PTCA and 8 hours post-PTCA are sufficient for detection of myocardial necrosis. PMID- 2528799 TI - Suppressor T cells belong to the self-reactive repertoire. PMID- 2528800 TI - [Measurement of coronary flow velocity with Doppler catheter: evaluation of coronary flow reserve in successful angioplasty]. AB - To assess the therapeutic effect of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) on coronary flow reserve, coronary flow velocity (CFV) was measured with a Doppler catheter before and immediately after PTCA in 11 patients, who underwent elective PTCA for critical stenosis in proximal or mid portion of the left anterior descending artery (LAD). A Doppler catheter was positioned at the proximal portion of the LAD and the CFV was measured at rest and after intracoronary injection of 6 ml of contrast material (Iopamidol), 6 ml of saline or 3 mg of Isosorbide Dinitrate (ISDN). Peak to resting velocity ratio (PRVR) was calculated as an estimate of coronary flow reserve. Percent diameter stenosis (%S) was measured from cineangiogram. A translesional pressure gradient was obtained with an angioplasty catheter. These parameters measured in PTCA candidates were compared with those in 11 patients whose LAD had no critical stenosis. After PTCA, %S was decreased (94.2 +/- 1.4 vs 34.1 +/- 5.1%; mean +/- SEM). Pressure gradient was also decreased (59.5 +/- 4.9 vs. 25.1 +/- 3.3 mmHg). There was no difference between mean CFV at rest in patients before PTCA and that in patients without stenosis (4.52 +/- 0.63 vs. 5.46 +/- 0.61 cm/sec). By successful PTCA, CFV at rest was increased (7.39 +/- 1.32, p less than 0.05 vs. before PTCA). PRVRs in patients before PTCA were smaller than those in patients without stenosis (1.5 +/- 0.1, 1.4 +/- 0.1, 1.6 +/- 0.2 vs. 2.8 +/- 0.1, 2.5 +/- 0.2, 2.8 +/- 0.2, p less than 0.01; by contrast material, saline, ISDN, respectively).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528802 TI - Hypothesis: immunological help is reciprocally delivered between different subpopulations of lymphocytes. PMID- 2528801 TI - [Pathogenicity determinants of Treponema pallidum]. PMID- 2528803 TI - Differential binding of natural monoclonal antibodies to the surface of fixed or living cells. AB - A few hundred monoclonal antibodies derived from normal mice were tested for binding to cell surface antigens in one T-cell hybridoma and one I-Ek-transfected fibroblast cell line. The assay, which is suitable for large screenings, used glutaraldehyde-fixed cells followed by immunoenzymatic detection of immunoglobulin. Of the 331 antibodies tested, 75 showed significant binding, not only on these cells, but also on a macrophage, fibroblast, thymoma, and pre-B cell line, and on normal syngeneic and allogeneic thymocytes. If the assay was modified so as to use live cells in a simplified ELISA on living cells, only 10 of 253 antibodies were found to be positive with the T-cell hybridoma line and 7 with the transfected fibroblast cell line. In both sets of conditions, about 75% of the positive antibodies were found to be 'multireactive' after being tested on a panel of antigens. In contrast, conventional 'immune antibodies' to cell surface antigens could be tested by routine methods in either type of assay. We conclude that, while glutaraldehyde fixation does not affect the reactivity of conventional antibodies, this technique is inappropriate for testing the binding of natural antibodies to cell surface antigens. PMID- 2528804 TI - [Effects of carbamylcholine and impromidine on cell cycle state of CFU-S]. AB - In normal steady-state conditions, there was less than 10% loss of CFU-S due to hydroxyurea (HU, 10(-3) mol/L). The CFU-S killed by HU was greatly increased after bone marrow cells of LACA mice were exposed in vitro to carbamylcholine (Cach) (10(-13)-10(-9) mol/L) and impromidine (Impro) (10(-9)-10(-4) mol/L). They were 32.8 (Cach) and 38.4% (Impro) for day 9 CFU-S; 60.6 (Cach) and 49.5% (Impro) for day 13 CFU-S at plateau phase. The effects were blocked by antagonists of cholinergic N receptor d-tubocurarine and of histamine H2 receptor cimetidine, respectively. The different sensitivity to agonists between CFU-S forming early spleen colonies and late colonies may reflect differences in receptor density on the surface of haemopoietic stem cells or receptor activity. The studies provide additional evidence suggesting the heterogeneity of pluripotent haemopoietic stem cells. PMID- 2528805 TI - [Use of the automated management system "Manpower" for solving the problems of ambulatory care and improving working conditions of workers and employees at large industrial plants]. AB - In order to raise efficacy of dispensarization activities and to improve labour conditions of workers and employees of large industrial enterprises it is proposed to develop an automated system of medical data processing through attaching additional files with the data on periodic medical check-ups and workers' morbidity rates to the operating automated management system "Manpower". This system has been developed and introduced at the Chimikent Phosphorus Production Association and it has demonstrated high profitability when solving a number of public health problems. PMID- 2528806 TI - [Problems of the training of medical personnel in computer technology]. AB - The author discusses the article by Gavrilenko A. F. et al (Soviet Public Health, 1987, N 10, p. 9-12) and tackles the problems of training medical staff in computer science and computing machinery. In is proposed to direct the curriculum at job control, fundamentals of economics, mathematics, algorithmics, programming. The proposal to pay special attention to medical automated management systems, primarily used in medico-sanitary units of industrial enterprises, is argued. PMID- 2528807 TI - [Problems of using computer technics in hospitals of various profiles]. AB - The main causes restraining the introduction of computers in medical establishments have been analyzed. It is noted that the most rational way of introducing computers into medical establishments consists in the development of local computer network (LCN). An optimal variant of multicomputer association is represented by LCN based on star topology having a multidrop line as a shunt. Such a solution has some distinct advantages since in this case a multidrop line can operate both as an autonomous mini-LCN and together with other multidrop lines. Besides, heterogenic computers can be grouped into similar multidrop lines. PMID- 2528808 TI - [Use of computer technics in the management of first aid stations]. AB - Computer-based management system for emergency aid stations of Vologda is discussed. Principles of data collection, processing and storage are presented. Automatic data processing of Ministry Forms N 110/Y and 114/Y assists in solving most urgent problems. Information is supplied rather quickly, in a convenient form and is reliable. Multi-Level data application is medically, socially and economically effective. The system functions without drawing the staff of electronic engineers and programmers. Its introduction hasn't resulted in additional increase in the staff of medical statisticians. PMID- 2528809 TI - [Teaching the course on the management information system "Public health" at a medical institute]. PMID- 2528810 TI - [Activities of the Ministry of Public Health of the RSFSR in social and economic development of health services in 1988 and during the past 3 years of the 12th Five-Year period]. PMID- 2528811 TI - [A program of primary prevention of arterial hypertension in an organized rural population]. PMID- 2528812 TI - [Economic analysis of temporary disability in lung cancer]. PMID- 2528813 TI - Back pain in childhood. AB - Sixty-one children with back pain presented to the authors' department between 1978 and 1984, accounting for less than 2% of referrals in this age group. Approximately 50% had serious spinal disease, yet clinical findings could be unreliable in distinguishing such patients. In the absence of compelling physical signs, children with normal radiographs, white cell count, and sedimentation rate can be treated symptomatically and observed for some months before more invasive investigations are considered. PMID- 2528814 TI - Exploration of mechanical and electromyographic responses of trunk muscles to high-intensity resistive exercise. AB - The purposes of this study were to determine the effects of high intensity exercise on fatigue of the trunk muscles within a test session, and on multiple kinetic and electromyographic (EMG) variables over a 6-week training period. Fourty-five normal men and women (20-40 years of age) completed the study. The KIN/COM trunk testing unit (Chattecx Corporation, Chattanooga, Tennessee) was used for both testing and training. The results of the study follow: 1) The KIN/COM trunk testing system was very accurate, and the method used was highly reproducible for the kinetic variables. Reproducibility for the endurance variables was mixed, and isolated EMG variables were poor. 2) Kinetic and EMG decrements associated with fatigue did occur in the trunk muscles with ten continuous cycles of maximal concentric and eccentric contractions. 3) Trunk muscle strength gains were highest for the same mode of exercise used in training (specificity), but significant strength gains also were seen in different modes of muscle contraction (transfer of training). For the trunk extensors, the eccentric form of exercise was superior. 4) The rate of isometric torque development and decay was increased by exercise in men. 5) Trunk muscle endurance was retained when gains in strength occurred. 6) The majority of variables reflecting strength and endurance were retained. The methods and results can serve as guidelines for the evaluation of trunk muscle function and resistive exercise in the clinic. PMID- 2528815 TI - Anomalous lumbosacral articulations and low-back pain. Evaluation and treatment. AB - Eleven patients ranging from 13 to 76 years in age with low-back pain and asymmetric sacro-transverse joints were studied. Preoperatively, scintimetry was performed in eight of the patients, in all cases with normal results. Ten of the 11 patients had their sacrotransverse joint anesthesized in fluoroscopy. Nine of these experienced pain reduction or alleviation. Resection of the transverse process was performed in all cases. At follow-up, at 6 to 42 months postoperatively, seven patients reported total alleviation of pain, and two, significant improvement. Two patients had unchanged symptoms; one patient was 76 years of age, had associated degenerative changes of the spine, and had no effect of local anesthetics in his joint, and the other was a 13-year-old male competitive swimmer. The authors conclude that, in patients with anomalous unilateral lumbosacral articulations and low-back pain, in whom local anesthesia into the joint gives pain alleviation, resection of the transverse process may be a worthwhile procedure. PMID- 2528816 TI - Psychosocial factors influencing outcome in patients with low-back pain. AB - A psychosocial analysis of 58 patients with low-back pain was conducted. Three groups of patients with different outcomes were delineated with distinctly different psychosocial profiles. Patients who recovered uneventfully had a better income, reported more satisfaction with hospitalization or medical personnel, and had prolonged pain-free periods. Patients with the worst outcomes in terms of poor work role adjustment and severe pain complaints were more likely to be immigrants from mainland China, to be engaged in heavy manual labor, to be involved in compensation claims for work-related injuries, manifested a high degree of anxiety and depressive symptoms, and were hostile toward medical personnel. An intermediate group of patients with adequate work role adjustment but severe to moderate levels of pain were characterized by being females with varying combinations of anxiety and depressive symptoms. A preliminary clinical interview guide for screening potential problematic patients was developed. PMID- 2528817 TI - A computer-based interview system for patients with back pain. A validation study. AB - A microcomputer-based system has been designed to interview patients with a view to investigating and establishing common syndromes of back and leg pain. In a randomized crossover validation study, 50 consecutive outpatients were interviewed by the computer and had a conventional clerking by a doctor. The conventional clerking made minor errors in 3.75% of questions answered and major errors in 0.90%. The computer made minor errors in 6.75% of questions and major errors in 5.45%. The majority of the computer errors were due to inadequate question design. These have been corrected, and it is anticipated that the computer will now have an overall rate of 94% correct answers and be sufficiently accurate to pursue the aim of clinical syndrome identification. PMID- 2528818 TI - Spinal sagittal configuration and mobility related to low-back pain in the female gymnast. AB - The purpose of this study was to correlate low-back complaints in 64 female gymnasts (mean age, 12 years) to spinal sagittal configuration and mobility as measured by two noninvasive methods. Measurements by Debrunner's kyphometer and Myrin's inclinometer were highly correlated. Average thoracic kyphosis was 32 degrees, lumbar lordosis 35 degrees. The mean range of sagittal motion was 57 degrees in the thoracic spine and 113 degrees in the lumbar spine. On average, 1 degree of the total sagittal lumbar mobility was lost for every 1 degree of increased lordosis. Low-back pain (LBP) was reported by 20% of the girls, and these girls had a significantly larger lordosis (41 degrees) than girls with no history of LBP (35 degrees). PMID- 2528819 TI - Isometric lifting strength as a predictor of industrial back pain reports. AB - The objective of our investigation was to study isometric lifting strength in a population of industrial workers who perform a great variety of manual tasks, and to determine whether isometric strength is predictive of future back problems in such a population. Of 3,020 study subjects, 2,178 (72%) underwent strength testing in three standard lifting positions. During a 4-year follow-up period, 172 subjects tested reported back problems. When examining each isometric lift separately as a predictor of industrial back pain reports, those with greater isometric strength were at significantly greater risk than were weaker workers. However, after controlling for the effects of age, only a slight trend remained. For the blue collar workers in this study, isometric lifting strength testing was ineffective in identifying individuals at risk for industrial back problems. PMID- 2528820 TI - EMG to torque relationship in rectus abdominis muscle. Results with repeated testing. AB - Rectus abdominis muscles of young healthy female volunteers were studied to determine both the maximum strength in isometric flexion and the relation between the surface electromyogram (RMS EMG) and torque. Both the upper and lower portions of the abdominal muscle were studied during graded increase and decrease of torque. Repeated testing was performed over 6 weeks. The form of the relation between torque and EMG was better described by a quadratic than by a linear regression relationship, but with considerable variability about the best-fit line. The torque-increasing and torque-decreasing parts of each test were different and were analyzed separately. After 6 weeks of repeated testing, maximum voluntary isometric flexion torque increased 16.8% (P less than 0.01). There was a decrease in the ratio of electromyographic activity to torque production, which was statistically significant in the torque-increasing recordings. These changes in maximum torque and in the EMG-torque relation were attributed to learning through a test-retest effect, rather than to a true change in muscle characteristics. These findings, which show changes in normal subjects undergoing repeated testing, do not support the reliability of isometric strength measurements, or measurements based on RMS EMG recordings, for quantifying abdominal muscle function in patients with back pain, or those undergoing strengthening exercises. PMID- 2528821 TI - Congenital absence of a lumbar pedicle. PMID- 2528822 TI - 1989 Volvo Award in clinical sciences. Reproducibility of physical signs in low back pain. AB - The reproducibility between observers of physical signs in patients with low-back pain was investigated. Fifty patients were examined by two surgeons and another sample of 33 patients was examined by a surgeon and a physiotherapist. Continuous data on five signs were analyzed by Pearsons' correlation coefficient, and binary data on 54 signs were analyzed by the Kappa agreement coefficient. Reliable signs consisted of measurements of lordosis and flexion range, determination of pain on flexion and lateral bend, nearly all measurements associated with the straight leg raising test, determination of pain location in the thigh and legs, and determination of sensory changes in the legs. Signs of root tension showed better agreement when qualified with a description of where the pain was experienced. Bony tenderness was more reliable than soft tissue tenderness. PMID- 2528823 TI - Prediction of low-back trouble frequency in a working population. AB - This study was performed to estimate the discriminatory power of multiple combinations of risk indicators for the occurrence and recurrence of low-back trouble (LBT) in workers. Two categories of LBT provided groups for discrimination; 1) the presence or absence of LBT history, and 2) three patterns of recurrence characterized by the number of episodes (isolated, periodic, chronic). The risk indicators comprised data reflecting occupational and leisure demands on the back, measures of lumbar sagittal mobility, and anamnestic features of the first episode. Discriminant analysis was the statistical procedure used. The results showed that it was possible to find linear combinations of the discriminating variables that successfully allocated around two-thirds of the sample to the correct group. The presence of a history of LBT was predicted by the combined effect of increasing age and adult sports participation, but only in females did a heavier job contribute to such prediction. A reduction in risk was associated with lumbar flexibility and sports participation at school. Chronic LBT was more accurately identified than the two other groups; increasing age, a long initial spell, and an onset early in life were associated with increased likelihood of chronicity, while a report of symptoms being relieved by sitting reduced this risk. It is concluded that the occurrence and recurrence of LBT are related to combinations of risk indicators, and that it is imperative to consider the interactive effect of a multiplicity of factors in epidemiologic studies. PMID- 2528824 TI - The effects of compensation on recovery from low-back injury. AB - The influence of compensation on recovery from low-back pain was assessed in a retrospective controlled cohort study. One hundred fifty compensable and 150 noncompensable back injury patients were invited for review between 1 and 5 years from presentation. A 91.3% follow-up was achieved, and there was no difference in the median age, follow-up, and initial injury score between the two groups. The incidence of reported pain, disability, psychological disturbance, unemployment, and length of time off work was greater in the compensation group (P less than 0.001). Settlement of the claim did not result in any reduction in morbidity, even up to 5 years later. These results demonstrate that the payment of compensation delays recovery from low-back injury. PMID- 2528825 TI - A psychosociomedical prediction model of response to treatment by chronically disabled workers with low-back pain. AB - There has been much interest in identifying variables that can predict which individuals are susceptible to developing chronic low-back pain. There currently are a number of studies that are evaluating primary predictors (which uninjured workers are likely to develop chronic low-back pain) and secondary predictors (which workers with acute episodes will develop chronic pain). The present study reports the first results from a large-scale investigation of tertiary predictors. Specifically, it addresses the issue of what psychosociomedical variables are predictive of success/failure in response to a comprehensive Functional Restoration treatment program by workers who are chronically disabled with low-back pain. Three stages were involved in the development of this prediction model. First, a group of treatment and research professionals who had extensive experience in the area of chronic low-back pain identified an array of 42 variables, from a larger pool of quantified physical, psychosocial, and medical parameters rated to be important with this patient population.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528826 TI - A prospective, randomized, double-blind evaluation of trigger-point injection therapy for low-back pain. AB - The efficacy of trigger-point injection therapy in treatment of low-back strain was evaluated in a prospective, randomized, double-blind study. The patient population consisted of 63 individuals with low-back strain. Patients with this diagnosis had nonradiating low-back pain, normal neurologic examination, absence of tension signs, and lumbosacral roentgenograms interpreted as being within normal limits. They were treated conservatively for 4 weeks before entering the study. Injection therapy was of four different types: lidocaine, lidocaine combined with a steroid, acupuncture, and vapocoolant spray with acupressure. Results indicated that therapy without injected medication (63% improvement rate) was at least as effective as therapy with drug injection (42% improvement rate), at a P value of 0.09. Trigger-point therapy seems to be a useful adjunct in treatment of low-back strain. The injected substance apparently is not the critical factor, since direct mechanical stimulus to the trigger-point seems to give symptomatic relief equal to that of treatment with various types of injected medication. PMID- 2528827 TI - Magnetic resonance study of disc degeneration in young low-back pain patients. AB - The correlation of roentgenographic findings, clinical history, and incipient disc degeneration (DD), diagnosed with magnetic resonance imaging, was analyzed in young patients with low-back pain (LBP). One or more lumbar discs were abnormal in 57% of the 20-year-old LBP patients (n = 75) and in 35% of the asymptomatic controls (n = 34) in MRI. Narrowed disc spaces and alterations attributed to lumbar Scheuermann's disease, shown on the radiographs, were always associated with DD in MRI. Such a strong relationship was not observed with transitional vertebrae, spondylolisthesis, spina bifida, or postural abnormalities. However, an increased weight, a positive straight leg raising test, and a reduced lumbar mobility was consistent with an increase in frequency of DD. Magnetic resonance imaging is a safe and sensitive method for studying the presence and etiologic factors of DD. PMID- 2528828 TI - Lumbar muscle fatigue and chronic lower back pain. AB - There currently is a clinical need for an objective technique to assess muscle dysfunction associated with chronic lower back pain. A Back Analysis System for objectively measuring local fatigue in the back extensor muscles is presented. The reliability and validity of this technique was evaluated by testing chronic low-back pain patients and control subjects without back pain. Concurrent surface electromyograms (EMG) were detected from multiple back muscles during sustained isometric contractions at different force levels of trunk extension. Median frequency parameters of the EMG power density spectrum were monitored to quantify localized muscle fatigue. Results indicated: 1) high reliability estimates for repeated trials; 2) significant differences (P less than 0.05) in median frequency parameters between lower back pain patients and control subjects for specific combinations of contractile force level and muscle site tested; 3) Median Frequency parameters correctly classified lower back pain and control subjects using a two-group discriminant analysis procedure. The applicability of this technique as a treatment outcome measure and diagnostic screening method for lower back pain patients is discussed. PMID- 2528829 TI - Novel genetic instability associated with a developmentally regulated glycosyltransferase locus in Chinese hamster ovary cells. AB - LEC10 is a dominant glycosylation mutant of Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells that expresses a developmentally regulated glycosyltransferase (GlcNAc-TIII) not detectable in parental CHO cells. Several mutagens were found to increase the frequency of LEC10 mutants up to 10-fold over the spontaneous frequency of less than or equal to 10(-7), while 5azaC treatment had no effect. Revertants were obtained at high frequency (approximately 10(-4)) and were found to belong to two classes. Three independent revertants gave rise to new LEC10 mutants at high frequency (approximately 10(-4)) while seven others gave new LEC10 mutants at the low frequency typical of unmutagenized parental CHO cells. No evidence of a general mutator phenotype was found in the revertant lines with a high rereversion frequency. The combined data suggest a novel form of genomic instability at the LEC10 locus in CHO cells. Genetic events that affect the expression of developmentally regulated glycosyltransferases may be identified by further studies of LEC10 and other dominant CHO glycosylation mutants. PMID- 2528830 TI - Clinico-organizational aspects of the complex prophylaxis and treatment of neuroses. PMID- 2528831 TI - Rectus abdominis muscle-musculocutaneous flap in chest-wall reconstruction. AB - The rapid development of postmastectomy breast reconstruction has shown that the rectus abdominis muscle is a useful carrier for abdominal wall skin. Detailed analysis of the vascular anatomy of the abdominal wall has extended the uses of the transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flap to major chest-wall reconstruction, both as a transposition flap and as a free-tissue transfer. Although the most direct pathway to the paraumbilical perforators that supply the large skin island of the flap is from the deep inferior epigastric artery, numerous collateral pathways exist from above that recruit blood from the intercostal vessels and the internal mammary artery even if it has been ligated or used for myocardial revascularization. Awareness of these collateral pathways and care to preserve them whenever possible, combined with the willingness to supplement blood flow with a microvascular anastomosis of the deep inferior epigastric vessels, allows the surgeon to use the rectus abdominis flap and its variations in almost any major chest-wall reconstruction (Fig. 11). PMID- 2528832 TI - Five year experience with tape closure of abdominal wounds. AB - This study is a retrospective, five year analysis of 350 wounds from intra abdominal operations, using Steri-Strip (3M) skin closures as the sole method of skin closure. No subcutaneous or subcuticular sutures were used. The average age of the patients was 53.5 years, and the average duration of follow-up study was 194 days. The rate of wound infection was 1.14 per cent, far lower than that in any other historical trails used for comparison. The over-all complication rate that was attributed solely to the method of skin closure was 4.57 per cent. This compares favorably with those in historical trials. Advantages of a taped skin closure are lower rates of infection and over-all morbidity, a lower cost and a reduction in time in the operating room when compared with conventional methods. Foreign body granulomas and cellulitis are avoided. Strangulation and necrosis of tissue are eliminated because of gentle handling of tissue. Needle puncture marks and suture canal scarring are eliminated. These factors lead to a better cosmetic result. PMID- 2528834 TI - An aseptic method to loosen tight, relaxing sutures. AB - Relaxing sutures are placed to prevent wound dehiscence. These sutures sometimes become too tight, and local pain or edema ensues. An aseptic loosening of the relaxing sutures was devised and healing of the wound was accelerated. PMID- 2528833 TI - Retroperitoneal sacrocolpopexy for correction of prolapse of vaginal vault. AB - The problem of prolapse of vaginal vault has a clearly defined anatomic basis and so does it surgical restoration. Herein, we present our experience with a technique that is a modification of the abdominal sacrocolpopexy of Randall and Nichols. Our procedure is characterized by the use of a segment of Teflon (polytetrafluoroethylene) vascular prosthesis placed in the retroperitoneum at the sacral concavity to fasten the vaginal vault to the promontory. We have obtained excellent results with its application in 18 patients, who had a return to normal sexual activity and no recurrences during a follow-up period of 36 months. PMID- 2528835 TI - [Clinico-immunologic characteristics of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus living in a hot climate]. PMID- 2528836 TI - [Disturbance of immunogenesis in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus]. AB - Using a modified model, 16 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus were examined for the activity of nonspecific Con A-induced suppressors with the aid of different test systems. The suppressors of both patients and donors were employed. The proliferation of the test culture lymphocytes appeared to be activated. The immunogenetic abnormalities indicated seem likely to be related to extreme activity of the countersuppressor cells blocking the function of the suppressors, correlating with the clinical picture of the disease. PMID- 2528837 TI - The role of beneficence in clinical genetics: non-directive counseling reconsidered. AB - The popular view of non-directive genetic counseling limits the counselor's role to providing information to clients and assisting families in making decisions in a morally neutral fashion. This view of non-directive genetic counseling is shown to be incomplete. A fuller understanding of what it means to respect autonomy shows that merely respecting client choices does not exhaust the duty. Moreover, the genetic counselor/client relationship should also be governed by the counselor's commitment to the principle of beneficence. When non-directive counseling is reexamined in light of both these principles, it becomes clear that there are cases in which counselors should attempt to persuade clients to reconsider their decisions. Such attempts are consistent with non-directive counseling because, while respecting the clients' decision-making authority, they insure that clients act with full knowledge of the moral consequences of their decisions. PMID- 2528838 TI - [Calcium inhibitors and cardioprotection]. AB - The main goal in treating hypertensive patients is to reduce the incidence of complications, especially on the heart. The lowering of blood pressure do not seem enough. Some properties, not shared by all antihypertensive drugs, are likely to allow some protection against heart and coronary diseases. These properties are: the absence of deleterious effects on glucids, lipids and kaliemia; the ability to induce left ventricular hypertrophy regression, antiarrhythmics effects, anti-ischemic effects and the ability to improve arterial compliance. Calcium inhibitors share all these properties and also have some more original and beneficial effects on arterial spasm and may be on progression of atherosclerosis. For all these reasons, a great interest arise for this new therapeutic class in hypertension. However we are still waiting for the demonstration of a true cardiac protection in hypertension with controlled long term trials. PMID- 2528839 TI - [Drug-induced cutaneous photosensitivity. Results of a consensus meeting]. AB - In France, the use of an official drug adverse reaction assessment method is mandatory since 1984. The method proposes various qualifications for chronologic and semiologic criteria without clear limits. The definitions could vary with the nature of the side-effect. We report here the results of a consensus meeting on drug-induced photosensitivity. Dermatologists and experts in pharmacovigilance studied together how the "French method" could apply to the two variances of drug induced photosensitivity: phototoxicity and photoallergy. PMID- 2528840 TI - Thrombus formation on the aorta injured by angioplasty and its prevention with dilazep in atherosclerotic rabbits. AB - To estimate the effect of dilazep in preventing restenosis after a transluminal angioplasty, we have attempted an animal experiment in which the efficacy of drug was tested on an angioplastic injury superimposed on to atherosclerotic lesions. Using a modification of Block's method, atherosclerotic lesions first were made in the rabbit aorta by an initial ablation of the endothelium, followed by successive cholesterol feedings. Then, for our second step, an angioplastic injury was inflicted on the atherosclerotic lesions. The thirty two rabbits used were divided into 3 groups: those given dilazep (100 micrograms/kg i.v.), those given dipyridamole (100 micrograms/kg i.v.) and a control group that was given the same volume of 0.9% saline. The angioplastic area in which thrombi developed was semiquantitatively measured and compared among all three groups. The mean value of the thrombus area in the dilazep group was 60% smaller and the distribution pattern of the thrombus by size was found to be composed of smaller thrombi than those of the control group. Dipyridamole showed the same trend as did dilazep, but less effectively. Our animal model and semiquantitative evaluation method that we employed were found useful from the view point of an easy applicable and inexpensive methodology. Our results point towards the possible clinical use of dilazep in the future, so as to prevent thrombus formation, which seems to cause the restenosis phenomenon that often occurs in patients who have undergone a coronary angioplasty. PMID- 2528841 TI - Platelet function during long-term treatment with ketanserin of claudicating patients with peripheral atherosclerosis. A multi-center, double-blind, placebo controlled trial. The PACK Trial Group. AB - In a multi-center, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in claudicating patients with peripheral atherosclerosis, the effects of 1 year of treatment with ketanserin (20 mg t.i.d. for 1 month, 40 mg t.i.d. thereafter; n = 63 patients) or placebo (n = 84 patients) on platelet function (aggregation in P.R.P. by 5-HT 5 x 10(-6) M, ADP 1 to 5 x 10(-6) M, collagen 2 micrograms/ml; platelet 5-HT content; plasma beta TG- and PF4-levels; serum TXB2) were analyzed. Before treatment, claudicating patients (n = 173) displayed an higher reactivity of platelets to 5-HT and signs of platelet activation/release in vivo (higher plasma beta TG-PF4, lower platelet 5-HT content and decreased platelet aggregation by ADP, collagen) in comparison with healthy controls (n = 50). After 1 year of treatment with ketanserin, but not with placebo, platelet aggregation induced by 5-HT (slope -41.1%) and platelet 5-HT content (-23.7%) were significantly reduced. PF4 and beta TG were significantly higher than their pre-medication values in the two trial groups. The other platelet function tests were not significantly modified by the treatment. Only the small subgroup of patients with initially elevated plasma beta TG levels (greater than 20 ng/ml) also scrutinized for hidden NSAID consumption or technical bias (exclusion of data with serum TXB2 less than or equal to 10000 pg/100 microliters and/or plasma PF4 greater than 10 ng/ml) had significantly lower plasma beta TG levels (-22.7%) than the pre medication values after treatment with ketanserin, but not with placebo. The present study confirms that ketanserin affects some platelet functions, during long-term administration in claudicating patients with atherosclerosis. PMID- 2528842 TI - Platelet thromboxane A2 receptors in habitual smokers. AB - Cigarette smoking is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease but its effect on platelet aggregability and particularly on TxA2 platelet metabolism is controversial. In present study TxA2 platelet receptors of 8 male clinically healthy habitual smokers (more than 20 cig./day) aged 30-55 (44 +/- 6 years) and of 9 age matched healthy controls were evaluated. Platelet TxA2 receptors were investigated by a radioligand binding method employing 125I-PTA-OH, a radio iodinated hydroxy derivative of the 13-azapinane thromboxane antagonist (ONO 11120). Binding studies evidentiated a single class of specific high affinity receptors for the TxA2 analogue. In non smokers 990 + 220 receptors/platelet (rec/plt) with a dissociation constant (kd) of 22 +/- 11 nM were found. Smokers had a significantly larger number of TxA2 platelet receptors (1268 +/- 190 rec/plt p less than 0.01). No differences in the receptor affinity was found (23 +/- 6 nM, ns). Those changes could contribute to the high responsiveness of platelet from smokers to external aggregating stimuli. PMID- 2528843 TI - Verapamil is a potent inhibitor of 5-HT-induced platelet aggregation. AB - We have studied the effects of verapamil, diltiazem and amlodipine on 5-HT induced platelet aggregation and compared the results with those obtained for other platelet aggregating agents. Experiments were carried out using both human whole blood and platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Verapamil (but not diltiazem or amlodipine) inhibited 5-HT-induced platelet aggregation at much lower concentrations (IC50 = about 1 microM) than were required for inhibition of aggregation induced by other aggregating agents. Like some other selective inhibitors of 5-HT-induced platelet aggregation, it was not possible to completely overcome the inhibition by increasing the concentration of 5-HT. The antiaggregatory effects of verapamil were similar, but not identical, in whole blood and PRP. These results show that the Ca2+ channel blocker verapamil has some selectivity as an inhibitor of 5-HT-induced platelet aggregation and that this behaviour as a 5-HT antagonist should be taken into account when interpreting any therapeutic benefit ascribed to this drug. PMID- 2528844 TI - Demonstration of plasminogen activator activity in the intima and media of the normal human aorta and other large arteries: immunological identification of the plasminogen activator(s). AB - The plasminogen activator activity (PAA) in extracts of the intima, media, and adventitia of the normal human aorta and other large arteries (carotid artery, renal artery and iliac artery) was studied with a sensitive, quantitative spectrophotometric assay using plasminogen and the chromogenic plasmin substrate S-2251. All layers of the arteries showed PAA which was highest in the adventitia, lowest in the media, while in the intima (aorta) PAA was intermediate, but much closer to that of the media. Plasminogen activator inhibition (PAI) was at the same level in all layers of the arteries studied. Plasmin inhibition (PI) was higher in adventitia than in intima (aorta), while in media the PI was intermediate. The PAA was due to the tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA), but not to the urokinase-type (u-PA), as judged by addition of respective antibodies. The relatively low PAA found in the intima of large arteries is therefore due to a low plasminogen activator and not a high plasminogen activator inhibitor activity or plasmin inhibitor level. PMID- 2528845 TI - Activation of blood coagulation and fibrinolysis in diabetes mellitus: evaluation by plasma levels of thrombin-antithrombin III complex and plasmin-alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor complex. AB - Diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with an increased incidence of vascular complications. Abnormalities in the hemostatic system contribute at least in part to the development of vascular disease or atherosclerosis. In order to assess the actual degree of activation of the coagulation and fibrinolytic systems in diabetics, plasma levels of thrombin-antithrombin III complex (TAT) and plasmin alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor complex (PAP) were measured together with tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA) and plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI-1) in 18 patients with DM (three patients with type I DM and 15 with type II DM). Mean plasma levels of TAT (2.5 +/- SD 1.2 ng/mL) and PAP (0.9 +/- 1.2 micrograms/mL) were significantly elevated in diabetics as compared with healthy subjects (1.7 +/- 0.3 ng TAT and 0.2 +/- 0.1 micrograms PAP per mL of plasma; p = 0.009 and 0.02, respectively). Plasma antigen concentration of t-PA but not of PAI-1 was also elevated. No difference was found in the levels of these variables between type I and type II diabetics or between patients with and without retinopathy or nephropathy. These findings indicate that continuous activation of coagulation and fibrinolysis actually occurs in the majority of the patients with DM. PMID- 2528846 TI - Effects of antihypertensive drugs on renal function and atrial natriuretic polypeptide in spontaneously hypertensive rats with renal ablation. AB - To determine whether pharmacological control of blood pressure could affect the renal function and levels of atrial natriuretic polypeptide (ANP) in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) with renal ablation, and to ascertain the benefits of antihypertensive drugs, we studied effects of oral administration of captopril (50 mg/kg/day), an inhibitor of angiotensin converting enzyme, benidipine (3 mg/kg/day) and nilvadipine (10 mg/kg/day), newly developed blockers of calcium channel, and indapamide (10 mg/kg/day) for 14 days on systolic blood pressure, serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, and plasma ANP concentration in SHR subjected to surgical removal of the left kidney and infarction of two-thirds of the right kidney (5/6 nephrectomy) a week before. Three weeks after the surgery, systolic blood pressure (mmHg) in the untreated group was 253 +/- 9 (n = 10), in the captopril group 156 +/- 9 (n = 7, p less than 0.05), in the benidipine group 197 +/- 9 (n = 7, p less than 0.05), in the nilvadipine group 146 +/- 9 (n = 7, p less than 0.05) and in the indapamide group 206 +/- 5 (n = 7, p less than 0.05). Serum creatinine (mg/100 ml) was lower in the captopril group (0.58 +/- 0.02, n = 7, p less than 0.05) and in the benidipine group (0.50 +/- 0.03, n = 7, p less than 0.05) but not in the nilvadipine group and in the indapamide group 3 weeks after 5/6 nephrectomy compared to the untreated group. Blood urea nitrogen was also lower in the captopril group and in the benidipine group but not in the nilvadipine group and in the indapamide group. Plasma ANP concentration was significantly reduced by the treatment with captopril and benidipine but not with nilvadipine and indapamide. These results suggest that the reduction of blood pressure by the inhibition of angiotensin converting enzyme with captopril has the potential to ameliorate renal function of the SHR with remnant kidney, a model of chronic renal failure with hypertension, associated with the decreased concentration of plasma ANP. However, it remains to be determined whether the reduction of blood pressure by calcium channel blockers may be involved in the delayed progression of renal failure in this model since there were disparate effects on renal function and plasma ANP concentration with these two calcium channel blockers. PMID- 2528847 TI - Workers' compensation. PMID- 2528848 TI - Pelviscopy: broadening the scope of laparoscopy. AB - 1. Two important aspects of pelviscopy that differ from laparoscopy are the use of an endocoagulator and intra-abdominal suturing capabilities. 2. Scrubbing and circulating roles were exchanged so each group could learn the technique, and new instruments were introduced to the entire staff as they were received. 3. A pelvic trainer helps inexperienced surgeons to develop their technique and practice suturing procedures. 4. Although acquiring the necessary skills is challenging, pelviscopy accomplishes the same therapeutic treatment as a laparotomy in a minor procedure. PMID- 2528849 TI - Reversible pancytopenia following OKT3. Use in the context of multidrug immunosuppression for kidney allografting. AB - We present two instances of pancytopenia in kidney transplant patients associated with a course of OKT3 therapy. In one case, OKT3 was used prophylactically, in the other therapeutically to treat biopsy-proved rejection. They both occurred in the setting of multi-drug immunosuppression, including Minnesota anti-lymphocyte globulin, and recovered with supportive therapy. Previous antihypertensive medication, antibiotics, and azathioprine were restarted without hematologic sequelae. Evidence implicating OKT3, and resultant gamma-interferon-induced marrow suppression is discussed. PMID- 2528850 TI - Induction of antiidiotypic antibodies by donor-specific blood transfusions. Establishment of a human-mouse hybridoma secreting the MLR-inhibiting factor. AB - We describe a patient transfused with 200 ml of donor fresh whole blood three times at 2-week intervals. Three weeks after the last transfusion, transplantation and splenectomy were done at the same time. Splenic cells from this DST pretreated patient were fused with murine myeloma cells (X63-Ag8, 653). With DST pretreatment, various clones were developed in vivo, and finally 69 human immunoglobulin-secreting clones were obtained. Modulation of the alloantigen-specific MLR by supernatants from 69 clones showed various degrees of suppression or augmentation. The hybridoma clone 7 and clone 2, which had been secreting IgG antibody for more than 6 months, showed some degree of suppression in the alloantigen-specific MLR (mean suppression = 63%, 46% respectively). According to the result of MLR, clone 7 antibody was directed against recipient lymphocytes and clone 2 antibody was against donor lymphocytes. Immunoprecipitation was carried out by clone 7-IgG and clone 2-IgG. Clone 7-IgG specifically precipitated 1 molecule from the recipient lymphocyte with a molecular weight of 120 KD, similar to the molecular weight range reported for T cell receptors. Clone 2-IgG precipitated a 20 KD molecule from the donor lymphocyte. The data suggest that DST induces antibodies directed against the blood donor alloantigen-specific receptors on the recipient's T lymphocytes--and, at the same time, induces antibodies against donor lymphocyte antigens. These antibodies may be essential to prolongation of kidney allograft survival following DST. PMID- 2528851 TI - Possible nephrotoxicity of the prophylactic use of OKT3 monoclonal antibody after cadaveric renal transplantation. PMID- 2528852 TI - The quantitative flow cytometric plasma OKT3 assay. Its potential application in cardiac transplantation. PMID- 2528853 TI - [Special guidelines concerning handicapped children]. PMID- 2528854 TI - [The significance of childhood conditions with regard to disability pensions. A case-controlled study among unskilled workers]. AB - The significance of the conditions in childhood and adolescence for awarding of disability pension is illustrated by means of a case-control design with persons matched according to age, sex and type of work. The group investigated consisted of 581 general male workers who received middle or highest disability pension and 1,550 control persons. No significant differences were found between the case and control group as regards the occupation of the father, unemployment of the father, illness or disability pension in the parents, economical problems during childhood, growing up in the parental home and growing up in rural or urban surroundings. Disability pensioners had more frequently had schooling for less than seven years. These results cannot confirm the conclusions from previous investigations which are associated with bias in the form of socioeconomical differences between the group investigated and the control group. Unskilled work results in confounding as it is associated not only with poor childhood conditions and also with a high incidence of disability pension. Poor childhood conditions are not found more frequently within the group of general workers among the disability pensioners and can thus not be regarded per se as a risk factor for awarding disability pensioning. However, the childhood condition may influence the choise of occupation and then indirectly act as a risk factor for disability pension. PMID- 2528855 TI - [The significance of working conditions with regard to disability pensions. A case-controlled study among unskilled workers]. AB - The incidence of disability pension varies considerably from occupation to occupation. General workers are the occupational group where disability pension is most frequently recognized. In this investigation, the significance of the working conditions for awarding disability pension is illustrated by means of a case-control design. The case group consisted of 581 unskilled workers who received the middle or highest disability pension. The control group consisted of 1,550 age-matched unskilled workers. Disability pensioners had commenced work at a young age significantly more frequently. They had been exposed to physically strenuous work, too rapid a tempo and a long series of unpleasant working conditions. In addition, disability pensioners had frequently experienced periods of unemployment. No differences were observed as regards piece work, shift work or the number of places of employment. The stressing working conditions which occurred more frequently among disability pensioners are all accessible for preventative measures. PMID- 2528856 TI - Protection against progressive atrophic rhinitis by vaccination with Pasteurella multocida toxin purified by monoclonal antibodies. AB - Pasteurella multocida toxin was purified by affinity chromatography and inactivated by treatment with formaldehyde before use as a single component vaccine against progressive atrophic rhinitis in pigs. Twenty pregnant gilts which were vaccinated twice before farrowing with either low or high doses of the purified toxoid, developed dose-dependent positive serum and colostrum titres to the toxin and, unlike the progeny of 10 untreated control gilts, the offspring of the vaccinated gilts also had serum titres. These titres could be measured in blood samples taken for more than eight weeks from birth for most pigs born to gilts vaccinated with low doses and more than 12 weeks for pigs born to gilts vaccinated with high doses of the vaccine. All the piglets were inoculated intranasally with Bordetella bronchiseptica and toxigenic P multocida. The clinical and post mortem examinations of snouts revealed a significant reduction in the frequency and degree of conchal atrophy in the two groups of pigs from the vaccinated gilts compared with the pigs from control gilts. Clinically 90 per cent of the snouts of pigs born to vaccinated gilts appeared normal whereas only 28 per cent of the snouts of control pigs were not shortened or deviated at eight weeks of age. At slaughter 11 per cent of the pigs born to vaccinated gilts and 81 per cent of the control pigs had severe turbinate atrophy.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528857 TI - Limitations of salivary and blood cortisol determinations in pigs. AB - Blood and saliva samples were taken from groups of pigs maintained in intensive conditions. Multiple samples were taken from two unrestrained pregnant sows fitted with jugular cannulae. Single samples were taken from groups (mixed gilts and entire males; 70-90 kg) which were lightly exercised (7) or restrained (12). The rate of salivary secretion was low and collection of adequate samples took 5 min; in a number of pigs no saliva could be obtained. In order to stimulate salivary secretion, pigs (70-80 kg) were injected with pilocarpine nitrate (25 mg, subcutaneous) which produced a copious flow of saliva persisting for at least 15 min. Resting sows had higher mean levels of cortisol in plasma, ultrafiltrate and saliva than the other groups, which did not differ from each other. Within the pilocarpine group, males had a higher ultrafiltrate level of cortisol than females. In most instances salivary cortisol was significantly greater than ultrafiltrate cortisol. Ultrafiltrate and plasma cortisol were highly correlated (r = 0.883) but this correlation was low in the presence of pilocarpine (r = 0.260). Salivary cortisol was poorly correlated with either plasma (r = 0.167) or ultrafiltrate cortisol (r = 0.278) and the correlation with plasma was even lower following the administration of pilocarpine (r = 0.086). It was concluded that salivary estimates of cortisol in the pig were not usefully correlated with levels of ultrafiltrate (free) cortisol. PMID- 2528859 TI - [Sensitization to chemical substances in workers of the rubber industry]. AB - A study of workers engaged in the production of rubber and latex articles revealed allergic diseases in 28.7%, mainly dermatoses. However, the etiological role of professional factors was not proved because the revealed positive reactions to chemical substances were not clearly pronounced and did not always correspond with the contact. PMID- 2528858 TI - Donor safety and plasma quality in automated plasmapheresis. Comparison of two filter materials. AB - The level of blood cells and differential counts as well as of selected clotting and complement system components and breakdown products were measured in donor plasma of 42 polycarbonate filter (group I) and 7 nylon filter (group II) plasmapheresis procedures. Three different sampling time points were considered: (1) 1 min prior to connecting the donor to the machine (sample A); (2) 1 min after donation by a repeat venipuncture (sample B), and (3) in collected plasma (sample C). The better biocompatibility of the newly introduced nylon filters became evident on the basis of blood cell counts with significant drops of total white blood cell counts, monocytes, lymphocytes and platelets in sample B of group I, but not of group II. Similarly, complement studies revealed significant decrease of CH 50, C4 and C3 in samples B and C of group I, but only in samples C of group II. Coagulation studies showed significant increases of fibrinopeptide A and beta-thromboglobulin in samples B and C of group I; in group II beta thromboglobulin was significantly increased in sample C compared to sample A. Plasminogen levels were decreased in samples B and C of group I but not of group II. Nonactivated partial thromboplastin time remained normal in group I. Factor VIII:C determinations in group II revealed a recovery of 86% in sample C. PMID- 2528860 TI - "Hope in another direction": compensation for work-related illness among women, 1900-1960--Part II. AB - This article examines compensation for work-related illness among women in the first sixty years of the twentieth century. Its first part (Vol. 15, No. 1) discussed women's experience in the employers' liability system and their workers' compensation claims for poisonings. Part II in this issue examines compensation for infectious diseases, principally tuberculosis; litigation involving lung disease produced by beryllium and asbestos; and women's workers' compensation claims for illnesses involving a mental component. PMID- 2528861 TI - Opioid peptides in pathological states. PMID- 2528862 TI - Comparative immunogenicity study of four plasma-derived hepatitis B vaccines in Thai young adults. AB - Immunogenicity of four plasma-derived hepatitis B vaccines (Merck, Sharp and Dohme, Pasteur, Dutch CLB and Korean Cheil-Sugar) was compared in Thai young adults. After primoimmunization, only the Merck and Pasteur vaccines could achieve greater than 90% seroconversion (i.e. anti-HBs greater than or equal to 10 mIU ml-1) whereas both the CLB and Korean vaccines needed a fourth dose to achieve this level of seroconversion. The anti-HBs titres of both heat inactivated vaccines (CLB and Korean) were also significantly lower than those of the other two vaccines. We propose that the HBsAg content in both heat inactivated vaccines should be increased and a booster (fourth) dose should be given in order to enhance their immunogenicities. PMID- 2528863 TI - Overproduction of glycolytic enzymes in yeast. AB - Eight different enzymes for glycolysis and alcoholic fermentation were overproduced in a common Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain by placing their genes on multicopy vectors. The specific enzyme activities were increased between 3.7- and 13.9-fold above the wild-type level. The overproduction of the different glycolytic enzymes had no effect on the rate of ethanol formation, even with those enzymes that catalyse irreversible steps: hexokinase, phosphofructokinase and pyruvate kinase. Also the simultaneous increase in the activities of pairs of enzymes such as pyruvate kinase and phosphofructokinase or pyruvate decarboxylase and alcohol dehydrogenase, did not increase the rate of ethanol production. The levels of key glycolytic metabolites were also normal, compared to the reference strain. PMID- 2528864 TI - Physiology of mutants with reduced expression of plasma membrane H+-ATPase. AB - Two mutations containing insertions and deletions in the promoter in the plasma membrane H+-ATPase gene (PMA1) of Saccharomyces cerevisiae have been introduced into the genome by homologous recombination, replacing the wild-type gene. The resulting strains have 15 and 23% of the wild-type ATPase content. Decreased levels of ATPase correlate with decreased rates of proton efflux and decreased uptake rates of amino acids, methylamine, hygromycin B and tetraphenylphosphonium. This supports a central role of the enzyme in yeast bioenergetics. However, the final accumulation gradient of tetraphenylphosphonium is not affected by the mutations and that of methylamine and 2-aminoisobutyric acid is only decreased in the most extreme mutant. Apparently, kinetic constraints seem to prevent the equilibration of yeast active transports with the electrochemical proton gradient. As expected from their transport defects, the ATPase-deficient mutants are more resistant to hygromycin B and more sensitive to acidification than wild-type yeast. Mutant cells are very elongated, suggesting a structural role of the ATPase in the yeast surface. PMID- 2528865 TI - Effects of drinking water acidification, restriction of water supply and individual caging on parameters of toxicological studies in rats. AB - A 21 week experiment was conducted with male SPF Ico/Shoe: WIST rats to study the influence on diagnostic parameters of toxicological studies of (i) acidification of drinking water by hydrochloric acid (untreated tap water vs. pH 3 vs. pH 2), (ii) individual vs. group caging (5 animals/cage), and (iii) ad libitum vs. 10 ml restrictive water supply. Acidification to pH 2 resulted in a slightly but significantly reduced excretion of phenol red, lowered proteinuria and a decreased urine volume, whereas all other parameters remained unchanged. Individual caging was less stressful than expected from published data. Red blood cell counts were increased, water consumption and urine volume were somewhat lowered, but stress-sensitive parameters like adrenal weight, leucocyte and lymphocyte counts were not altered. A 10 ml restrictive water supply decreased urine volume, food consumption, body weight development and organ weights. Furthermore transient increases in red blood cell counts and hemoglobin contents, leucopenia and--most important--an impaired renal function were observed. In conclusion acidification of drinking water with hydrochloric acid should not be lower than pH 3, male Ico/Shoe: WIST rats can be regarded as minimum susceptible to individual caging, and reduced water intake might give false positive nephrotoxic effects. PMID- 2528866 TI - Streptozotocin-diabetic BB/OK rats accept permanently BB/OK-islet grafts without immunosuppression. AB - The recurrence of hyperglycaemia after transplantation of BB rat islets in partially inbred BB rats with an autoimmune diabetes could be either caused by graft rejection or by autoimmune destruction. We investigated in the BB/OK rat substrain which does accept BB/OK rat skin grafts permanently, the survival of BB/OK islet grafts by using streptozotocin-diabetic BB/OK rats as recipients. We observed a permanent acceptance of islet grafts despite using animals inbred for only 8 generations. The results demonstrated homogeneity for islet grafts and provide evidence that an autoimmune B-cell destruction cannot be triggered by a direct (toxic effect on immune cells) or indirect (due to B-cell killing) action of a single large doses of streptozotocin in BB/OK rats. PMID- 2528867 TI - [3-dimensional recording of changes in the infant jaw with unilateral cheilognathopalatoschisis with special reference to the results of preoperative orthodontic therapy]. AB - The changes of jaws of cleft palate children were examined from birth until after the operative lip closure by the aid of a method of coordinate measurement technique. The examination resulted in a significant reduction of the anterior, medial and posterior cleft width during the preoperative treatment period. The anterior and posterior width of alveolar crest arch remained nearly constant in the examination period. The translation of the anterior poles of the palate segments in the case of the unilateral clefts were more distinct in the transversal direction than in sagittal direction. Values of slope were constant or became little smaller after the orthopedic treatment. After the lip closure we found end-to-end relation resulting from guided growth of the segments having constant arch dimensions. A collapse of the segments could not be observed. Altogether we can say the preoperative orthopedic therapy would give the cleft palate good suppositions for the further development. PMID- 2528868 TI - [Effect of an experimentally-induced lateral occlusal disorder on cell proliferation in the condylar cartilage of the rat temporomandibular joint]. AB - The effect of experimentally induced restricted lateral guidance of the lower jaw of growing Wistar rats on the proliferation of cells in the condylar growth zone was studied. Based on the results of this micro-autoradiographic investigation using 3H thymidine, and in view of the simple and reproducible test procedure, the proposed model of a lateral occlusal disturbance is described for animal experiments dealing with initial processes of biomechanical interference with condylar growth. PMID- 2528869 TI - [Electron microscopic visualization of microbial extracellular metabolic products in an in vitro test]. AB - The present electron microscopic study was performed to investigate the glycocalyx changes of S. mutans species OMZ 176 during incubation with defined substrate limitation (sucrose) and with hydroxyapatite crystals. In an agar with 5 p. c. sucrose can be seen the build-up of proteoglycan complexes, and a strong cell free glycan production in order to hydroxyapatite crystals. PMID- 2528870 TI - [Gas chromatographic analysis of the S. mutans product spectrum from glucose turnover]. AB - In addition to other acids lactate was detected as prevailing end product in glucose containing broth of 8 S. mutans strains. The total acid amounts differed depending on the microbial origin. Further quantitative and qualitative differences existed between acidic products of the pH-stat controlled reaction with glucose as substrate and defined germ suspensions. S. mutans LM 7 showed the most strongly heterofermentative pathway. PMID- 2528871 TI - [In vitro microbiological research on oral ointments]. AB - Two oral ointments were investigated of their antimicrobial activities using agar diffusion test and suspension method with aerobic germs and Candida albicans. The oral ointment Parodontal-Mundsalbe-neu was better then Parodontal-Mundsalbe-alt with regard to intensity, begin and end of action. In our experiments the field of activity of both ointments against the species tested was identically. PMID- 2528872 TI - [New experimental insights into the mechanism of blow-out fractures]. AB - Model impact tests on 3-dimensional PMMA eye models with a swing type impact tester (Dynstat) were performed. There are three kinds of impact tests; the impact to the eyeball alone, the impact to the eyeball and infraorbital margin, and the impact to the isolated infraorbital margin. All impact tests of eye models were recorded by high speed camera with 3,000 pictures per second. Analysis of impact tests showed, that the primary factor of blow-out fractures was deformation of the eyeball by kinetic energy of impact. Transmission of impact force by deformed eyeball to orbital walls is causing blow-out fractures on the weakest areas of the orbit without fracturing the orbital rim. Against the present accepted theories of "hydraulic force" und "buckling force" this is a new theory for pathomechanism of blow-out fractures. Our experimental results support the clinical investigations on treated patients. PMID- 2528873 TI - [Clinical and experimental longitudinal research on the abrasion behavior of artificial teeth]. PMID- 2528874 TI - Purification procedure for the determination of niacin vitamers in gastrointestinal contents and blood. AB - A solid phase extraction procedure for subsequent simultaneous HPLC analysis of free nicotinic acid (NIA) and nicotinamide (NAM) in dried or liquid rumen and gastrointestinal contents from sheep is described. Twenty-five mg dried samples were suspended in 1.0 ml of 0.1 mol/l Li2SO4 and centrifuged. The supernatants were passed through two 500 mg solid phase extraction columns (Bond Elut NH2 and Sep Pak C18), mounted in series, and eluted by a four step pH gradient procedure. Recoveries of the two vitameres were between 70 and 75%. Purification was satisfactory when the method was applied to different fractions of rumen content (e.g. to food residues, to a microbial preparation and to rumen fluid), to intestinal contents of sheep and to blood. In rumen fluid no free NIA and NAM was found. Food particles and rumen microbes contained no free NAM. PMID- 2528875 TI - Evaluation of elution parameters in reversed phase HPLC for the determination of niacin vitamers and metabolites. AB - A procedure for separation of nicotinic acid (NIA), nicotinamide (NAM), nicotinuric acid (NUR) and N1-methyl-nicotinamide (NMN) from biological samples by isocratic HPLC is described. The effects a) of different buffer systems (citrate, acetate, propionate), b) of different pH values (between pH 2.4 and 3.35), c) of different ionic concentrations of the eluents (between 10 and 100 mM) and d) of different methanol concentrations added to the eluent on retention times of the four compounds were tested. Results were described by multiple regression equations which allow selection of suitable analytical conditions according to the specific composition of different biological materials. The procedure yielded satisfactory separation of NIA and NAM from various purified fractions of rumen and intestinal contents and blood. PMID- 2528877 TI - [Centenary of the Ryazan District Clinical Psychiatric Hospital]. PMID- 2528876 TI - [The epidemic process of diphtheria infection in the RSFSR during the introduction of epidemiological surveillance]. AB - In this work the characterization of the epidemic process of diphtheria infection on the territory of the RSFSR under the conditions of epidemiological surveillance (1983-1986) is presented. In comparison with the period of 1979 1982, an increase in morbidity rate occurred, which accounts for more complete detection of patients with mild forms of diphtheria, including persons found to be carriers of toxigenic Corynebacterium diphtheriae. Beginning from 1983, the leveling out of seasonal morbidity rises is observed. In the total number of persons affected by this infection the prevalence of adults is noted. Among them, a decrease in the morbidity rate was registered in 1986 (the maximum decrease was observed in age and professional groups of risk), which confirms the effectiveness of measures carried out for the protection of the adult population from diphtheria. Among children, a tendency towards a decrease in morbidity rate was noted in all age groups. The existing system of epidemiological surveillance on the territory of the RSFSR is capable of stabilizing diphtheria morbidity on a sporadic level and minimizing the number of fatal outcomes. The intensification of the epidemic process in some areas of the RSFSR is due to shortcomings in the realization of different measures of epidemiological surveillance. PMID- 2528878 TI - Endocrine function of the heart in cardiac disease. AB - An impressive amount of research has been produced in the last 8 years on the possible role of ANF in cardiovascular disease. This is a brief and non-inclusive review of this work. In particular, the potential significance of ANF in hypertension and congestive heart failure is discussed. PMID- 2528879 TI - The correlation between clinical and hormonal parameters in androgenisation. AB - This study concerns 45 premenopausal women referred to Outpatient Clinic of Endocrinology for hirsutism. The degree of hirsutism was estimated using the semiquantitative scoring system by Ferriam and Gallwey. The authors studied the correlation between clinical manifestations of the disease and the following parameters: body mass index, plasma testosterone, DHEA-S, androstenedione and salivary testosterone, using a multiple regression analysis. A correlation (multiple R = 0.51) of borderline significance was found between the degree of hirsutism and all the above mentioned parameters together (p = 0.058). The relationship between each of these parameters and the severity of hirsutism was determined. Borderline significance was reached by plasma testosterone only (B = 0.34). There followed androstenedione (B = 0.14) and other parameters which showed a much lower, nonsignificant correlation index. Androgen levels constitute only one of the factors determining the severity of hirsutism. PMID- 2528880 TI - Short-term treatment of hirsutism related to micropolycystic ovary syndrome with a combination type oral contraceptive containing desogestrel. AB - The antiandrogen effects of an oral contraceptive containing 0.03 mg. Ethinyl Oestradiol and 0.15 mg. Desogestrel have been evaluated in 17 non-obese hirsute women, with normal serum LH and FSH values and their ratio, and evidence for Micropolycystic Ovary Syndrome (MPCO) on ultrasound examination. At the completion of 5 cycles (21 days) of treatment, a statistically significant decrease in serum Total Testosterone, Free Testosterone, Androstenedione levels was observed. Similarly, serum values for Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulphate and 17 OH-Progesterone showed a marked fall. The Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) values rose about four-fold, so that the Free Androgen Index was suppressed. The clinical score, evaluated according to the method of Ferriman and Gallwey, was found sharply reduced. Therefore, the well defined improvement of biochemical and clinical parameters, along with the absence of discernible side effects, are undoubtedly confirming the effectiveness of the treatment in hyperandrogenism of women with MPCO. PMID- 2528881 TI - Changes in myosin isozyme expression during cardiac hypertrophy in hyperthyroid rabbits. AB - The myosin isozyme distribution in the left ventricle and in the interventricular septum of rabbits was studied after 3, 7, 11, 14 and 21 days of L-thyroxine (500 micrograms/kg/day) administration. Histochemical procedures were employed to identify V1 and V3 by their Ca2+ ATPase activity and their proportions were quantified through polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. In the left ventricle, the subepicardium was the first to show the shift from V3 to V1, followed by the subendocardium. The intermediate region became heterogeneous by 11 days and remained so until 21 days. The right subendocardial and the intermediate regions of the interventricular septum were heterogeneous in the normal rabbit and hyperthyroidism resulted in a shift from V3 to V1 in both the right and left subendocardial regions of the septum. Like the left ventricle, the intermediate region of the interventricular septum remained heterogeneous. Localized accumulations of collagen were seen in all regions of the left ventricle and interventricular septum. From these results we conclude that in thyrotoxic myocardial hypertrophy the isozymic shift from V3 to V1 is progressive, region specific and is directly correlated with the period of hyperthyroidism in the first 2 weeks. Prolonged hyperthyroidism results in localized accumulation of collagen which does not exhibit any regional specificity. PMID- 2528882 TI - Histochemical alterations in the adult rat brain after X-ray irradiation: effects of O-(beta-hydroxyethyl)-rutosides. AB - X-ray-induced tissue damage in the brain of adult rats was investigated in the presence or absence of O-(beta-hydroxyethyl)-rutosides (OHR; active agents of Venoruton, Zyma-Blaes, Munchen, FRG). Histochemical methods were used for the detection of glycogen (periodic acid-Schiff), acid mucopolysaccharides (Hale) and acid phosphatases (Gomori) by light microscopy. The tissue alterations were reduced after drug application in the dose range between 5 and 7.5 Gy (300 kV, 12 mA). Exposure of the animals to higher irradiation doses (10, 20 Gy) led to an inversion of the drug effect, now exerting pronounced tissue injury. For a possible explanation we discuss the inhibitory influence of rutosides (e.g. OHR) on the glycolytic pathway. Hence, a vital energy source of brain tissue could be impaired by the drug after reaching a threshold of 10 Gy. PMID- 2528884 TI - Peak flow in children aged 4-16 years. Normal values for Vitalograph peak flow monitor, Wright and Mini Wright peakflow meters. AB - Peak expiratory flow rate was measured in 318 Swedish children aged 4-16 years on Wright peak flow meter, Mini Wright peak flow meter and Vitalograph peak flow monitor. We found that height, age and sex had a significant effect on the regression equation. Weight and body surface area did not add any significant information. The curves for the Wright and Mini Wright peakflow meters are presented and may be used as normal references in the clinic. Mini Wright peakflow meter and Vitalograph peak flow monitor are cheap and handy but results on different instruments should not be directly compared. PMID- 2528883 TI - Hardness of restorative resins: effect of camphorquinone, amine, and inhibitor. AB - The influence of the content of camphorquinone (CQ), amine (DABE), and inhibitor (MHQ) on the Wallace indentation hardness of light-curing polymers was investigated. The hardness was measured on disc-shaped specimens made from 50 bisphenol-A-glycidyl-dimethacrylate/triethyleneglycol-dimethacryla te-based monomers with various contents of CQ, DABE, and MHQ. When no MHQ had been added, the hardness number decreased with increasing content of CQ. This was also the case with increasing content of DABE, but to a lesser extent. In the presence of MHQ, the contents of CQ and DABE did not influence the hardness number significantly. PMID- 2528886 TI - Increased duodenal HCO3- output after blood volume expansion in the rat: an effect mediated by atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP)? AB - Duodenal HCO3- secretion was measured by in-situ titration in chloralose anaesthetized rats. The effects of hypervolaemia, induced by i.v. injections of an albumin infusion, on duodenal HCO3- secretion were investigated. A 10% increase in blood volume increased duodenal HCO3- secretion by about 50%, and this effect was unaffected by splanchnicotomy. If the splanchnicotomy was combined with cervical vagotomy, the basal HCO3- secretion was lower but the increase in secretion after 10% blood volume expansion with albumin was still 50%. If the same increase in blood volume was produced in splanchnicotomized and vagotomized rats in which the right atrial appendix had been removed, a procedure that markedly reduces the ANP (atrial natriuretic peptide)-producing cells, no increase in secretion could be observed. Intravenous injections of alpha-r-ANP (10 micrograms kg-1 and 30 micrograms kg-1) increased duodenal HCO3- secretion in a dose-dependent fashion. Based on the present findings, we suggest that hypervolaemia increases duodenal HCO3- secretion via release of ANP from the heart. PMID- 2528885 TI - The strong contractile effect of the thromboxane receptor agonist U-46619 in isolated human pulmonary arteries and its competitive antagonism by BM-13.505. AB - Ring segments (I mm in diameter) of the pulmonary artery obtained from 16 patients undergoing thoracic surgery were mounted in tissue baths. Cumulative concentration-response curves of some prostanoids and amines were obtained, and Emax and pEC50 values calculated. Noradrenaline, phenylephrine, clonidine and serotonin (5-HT) showed low intrinsic activities. Prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha) induced strong contractions with an Emax of 126% of the preceding K+ (124 mM)-induced contraction, but its potency was low (pEC50 = 5.70). The thromboxane receptor agonists U-46619 and U-44069 induced strong contractions (Emax = 139% and 133% respectively) and were significantly more potent than the other drugs used (pEC50 = 8.43 and 8.30 respectively). The thromboxane receptor antagonist BM 13.505 (10(-8) to 10(-6) M) caused rightward parallel shifts of the U-46619 concentration-response curves without reduction of Emax, indicating competitive antagonism. PMID- 2528887 TI - Reduction of [3H]nicotine binding in hypothalamic and cortical membranes by dopamine D1 receptors. PMID- 2528888 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP): response to NaCl is attenuated in rat atria in vitro after hypophysectomy. AB - The present study documents the effects of hypophysectomy on the NaCl-stimulated release and on the basal secretion rates of ANP from rat atria in vitro. Three weeks before the experiments rats were subjected to hypophysectomy or to a corresponding sham operation. Atria were excised and superfused in an organ bath with a physiological buffer solution (PBS, 294 mosmol kg-1). After a control period of 5 min, superfusion was made with hyperosmotic NaCl (330 mosmol kg-1) for 10 min, and then again with PBS, but now for 15 min. Atria were paced with field stimulation (4 Hz, 20 V, 1 ms) and the resting tension was kept at 5 mN. The sham-operated animals responded with a significant increase (P less than 0.05) in the secretion rate of ANP (from 137 +/- 13 pg ml-1 [n = 35] to 235 +/- 24 [n = 34], means +/- SE) to the NaCl stimulus. The hypophysectomy blunted the ANP response to hyperosmotic NaCl. In addition, basal secretion rate was significantly (P less than 0.001) lower in the hypophysectomized than in the sham operated animals during the whole experiment. Gel filtrations revealed that, during the hyperosmotic NaCl, both groups secreted exclusively ANP 1-28. We conclude that hypophysectomy blunts the basal as well as stimulus-induced in vitro release of ANP from rat atria. PMID- 2528889 TI - Variability in muscle fibre areas in whole human quadriceps muscle. How much and why? AB - To determine the variability in fibre areas in the human vastus lateralis muscle, cross-sections (15 microns) of whole autopsied muscles from eight young men have been prepared, and the cross-sectional area (CSA) of 375 type 1 and 375 type 2 fibres has been measured in five different regions throughout each muscle. The CSA of both fibre types varied significantly within all muscle cross-sections. Fibres in the deep parts of the muscle were larger than superficially. There was a significant correlation between the CSA of the two fibre types within each region: if a fibre of a given type was small, or large, the other fibre type was also small, or large. The CSA of type 2 fibres was larger than the CSA of type 1 fibres in 26 of the 40 regions: regions with type 1 fibres larger than type 2 fibres were mostly (71%) found deep in the muscle. The standard deviation of the CSA of type 1 fibres was significantly larger than for type 2 fibres in 35 of the 40 regions. In conclusion, the CSA of the different fibre types in the vastus lateralis of young men varies non-randomly. The pattern of variation, both throughout the muscle and in small sample regions, supports the general opinion that the functional demands placed on the fibre population are an important factor in the development of the fibre properties. PMID- 2528890 TI - Characterization of antigenic structures in auto-immune atrophic gastritis with pernicious anaemia. The parietal cell H,K-ATPase and the chief cell pepsinogen are the two major antigens. AB - Using isolated cells and subcellular fractions from pig gastric mucosa, antigenic structures with specific binding of IgG from sera of patients with auto-immune atrophic gastritis were characterized by means of immunoblotting and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. In immunoblotting experiments using mucosal cells as the antigen source, two dominating bands of 94 and 41 kDa were found. The two major antigens were identified as the H,K-ATPase (94 kDa), which constitutes the parietal cell acid pump, and pepsinogen (41 kDa) located in the chief cells. There was also a small but significant binding of antibodies to a preparation of Na,K-ATPase, an enzyme which is about 60% homologous to H,K-ATPase. Commercial preparations of hog gastric pepsinogen and pepsin bound pernicious anaemia IgG with equal efficacy. When sera from seven patients with the diagnosis pernicious anaemia were tested, all were found to contain auto-antibodies against H,K-ATPase as well as pepsinogen. In intact, isolated H,K-ATPase-containing vesicles the cytosolic part of the ATPase molecule is facing the outside of the vesicles. Both intact and trypsinized vesicles were incubated with patient sera and with a monoclonal antibody against H,K-ATPase. Pernicious anaemia IgG was found to bind to a cytosolic, trypsin-resistant structure, but the binding of the monoclonal antibody was lost upon trypsinization. The present results indicate that intracellular structures of the gastric mucosa, due to cell damage, may be exposed to immune-competent cells, which do not recognize these structures as 'self'. PMID- 2528891 TI - [Intrathecal synthesis of IgG in HIV infections]. AB - CSF and serum of 80 HIV-seropositive patients in various stages of the disease were examined. Total as well as intrathecal IgG synthesis appeared to be frequently elevated in each diagnostic group. Abnormal CSF oligoclonal IgG fractions were significantly more frequent in asymptomatic patients. CSF pleocytosis was found with a lower percentage in neurological AIDS patients. In patients subdivided according to blood T helper cell count, the distribution of the abnormal CSF parameters confirms that the immunological response in the CNS is mediated by interaction with systemic immunity. PMID- 2528892 TI - Pituitary-ovarian activity when switching from various monophasic pills to a triphasic pill. AB - This study was prompted by the various recommendations given by different oral contraceptive manufacturers to women who wish to switch from a monophasic to a triphasic formulation. Ten women who switched from a variety of monophasic pills to a levonorgestrel triphasic pill formulation after a 7-day pill-free interval were studied. Follicular maturation was monitored by ultrasound scan, and the levels of serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), progesterone (P) and estradiol (E2) measured. Pituitary-ovarian activity was suppressed in six of the ten women studied, while in the remaining four women there was some pituitary-ovarian activity during the first 10 days on the triphasic pill. These findings suggest a shorter pill-free interval, as advised in USA data sheets, may be less likely to result in pill failures when women switch from a monophasic to a triphasic preparation. PMID- 2528893 TI - 31P nuclear magnetic resonance measurements of ATPase kinetics in malignant tumors. PMID- 2528894 TI - Characterization of bilateral renal response to atrial natriuretic peptide in 2 kidney, 1 clip hypertensive rats. PMID- 2528895 TI - IgA nephropathy in systemic diseases. PMID- 2528896 TI - Heterogeneity of cytokine secretion patterns and functions of helper T cells. PMID- 2528897 TI - The cellular and subcellular bases of immunosenescence. PMID- 2528898 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor. AB - ANF is an exciting, newly discovered hormone that has significant potential for furthering our understanding of the complex interactions involved in fluid and electrolyte balance. In addition to effects on water and salt balance, it is a potent vasodilator, as well as inhibitor of renin, angiotensin II, aldosterone, and vasopressin. ANF is primarily produced in the atria, but production in the brain is suggestive of action as a neuropeptide and as a potential regulator of CSF production. Receptors are found throughout the heart, vascular tree, kidney, adrenal gland, and brain. The stimulus for release appears to be atrial stretch, which may be secondary to intravascular fluid changes. It causes hemoconcentration and may be an important regulator of interstitial fluid distribution as well as capillary permeability. Patients with CHF and renal failure have been found to have elevated levels that decrease in response to treatment. Potentially, it may be useful as a therapeutic agent in acute renal failure, CHF and other fluid disturbances. ANF is a testament to the incredible advances in peptide biology. Within 2 years of the discovery, ANF was sequenced and cloned. Since that time, literally thousands of papers describing its actions have been published. Our knowledge about this hormone grows at an exponential rate. It is clear that this hormone is intimately involved in the regulation of fluid and electrolyte balance, vascular tone, and the pathophysiology of CHF but many questions remain unanswered. Continued research will provide many of the missing pieces to this very complex, new hormone system. PMID- 2528899 TI - Plasminogen activation in the bovine udder. PMID- 2528900 TI - Usefulness of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty in alleviating silent myocardial ischemia in patients with absent or minimal painful myocardial ischemia. AB - To examine the role of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) in patients with silent ischemia, 50 consecutive patients (mean age 54 years, 88% men) with 1-vessel disease and absent or minimal symptoms who underwent PTCA were identified. Nineteen patients (38%) were asymptomatic and 31 patients (62%) had minimal angina (at most 1 episode/month, and with marked exertion only). Exercise induced ischemia was present in 45 of 49 patients (92%) tested. The remaining 5 patients had a critical stenosis in a vessel supplying a large myocardial territory. A total of 75 lesions were dilated, 71 successfully (95%). There were no procedural deaths or infarctions. The single complication was an urgent bypass operation. After PTCA, only 3 of 46 patients exercised (7%) had inducible ischemia (p less than 0.0005 vs before PTCA). At a mean follow-up of 36 months, 46 of 49 patients alive (94%) were asymptomatic (p less than 0.0005 vs before PTCA). The 3-year actuarial survival and infarct-free survival were 98 and 96%, respectively. However, 5 patients (10%) crossed over to bypass surgery and 14 patients (28%) underwent repeat PTCA. Progression of native coronary disease was present in 9 of these patients (47%). As in symptomatic patients, elective PTCA can be performed safely and with a high success rate in patients with silent ischemia, and can markedly reduce the incidence of exercise-induced ischemia. With this approach, greater than 90% of the patients were asymptomatic at the 3 year follow-up; however, 34% required a further revascularization procedure for restenosis or progression of native disease or both.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528901 TI - Effects of occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery during angioplasty on right-sided cardiac pressures and electrocardiographic changes. AB - Controversy persists regarding the presence and extent of right ventricular involvement with acute anterior injury. Also unclear are the incidence and significance of ST elevations in the right-sided leads in acute left anterior descending artery occlusion. Baseline and coronary occlusion hemodynamics and 15 lead electrocardiograms (addition of RV3 through RV5) were recorded in 42 patients during 32 left anterior descending and 13 right coronary artery angioplasties. The right coronary and left anterior descending artery angioplasties had similar baseline right and left ventricular hemodynamics, as well as identical right atrial to pulmonary wedge pressure ratios (0.51 right coronary vs 0.51 left anterior descending). Whereas the right coronary and left anterior descending occlusions produced similar elevations in right ventricular filling pressures, the left anterior descending occlusions produced greater elevations in left ventricular filling pressures. The right atrial to pulmonary wedge ratio increased with right coronary occlusions, but was unchanged with left anterior descending occlusions (0.79 right vs 0.46 left, p less than or equal to 0.0001). Presence of right-lead ST elevations in 10 left anterior descending occlusions did not con-note increased right ventricular filling pressures, but did suggest increased left ventricular ischemia and dysfunction. In conclusion, right ventricular dysfunction, as manifested by increased filling pressures, is seen with both right coronary and left anterior descending occlusions. Although it is the predominant abnormality in right coronary occlusions, in left anterior descending occlusions it is proportional to left ventricular dysfunction. ST elevations in a right lead with left anterior descending occlusions do not constitute a marker for increased right ventricular dysfunction. PMID- 2528902 TI - High incidence of acute coronary occlusions complicating percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty for angina pectoris. PMID- 2528903 TI - Restenosis after excellent angiographic angioplasty result for chronic total coronary artery occlusion--implications for newer percutaneous revascularization devices. PMID- 2528904 TI - Increases in atrial natriuretic peptide after delivery and in the puerperium. PMID- 2528905 TI - Noninvasive evaluation of cardiac structure and function in alpinists. PMID- 2528906 TI - Calcium antagonists and myocardial protection. AB - Painful and asymptomatic ischemia has been associated with left ventricular dysfunction, an important variable related to survival in patients with coronary artery disease. The treatment of patients with coronary artery disease with agents such as calcium channel blockers has been directed at reducing ischemia by restoring the balance between myocardial oxygen supply and demand, which ultimately serves to protect against myocardial dysfunction. Once ischemia has occurred, calcium channel blockers may protect myocardial cellular integrity and function. By reducing intracellular calcium overload during ischemia, mitochondrial function is preserved and adenosine triphosphate stores are maintained. Numerous in vitro and isolated heart preparations have shown that ischemia in the presence of calcium blockade is associated with less cellular dysfunction than in the situation of ischemia in the absence of calcium channel blockade. PMID- 2528908 TI - First-trimester midgut herniation: a high-frequency transvaginal sonographic study. AB - The application of high-frequency transvaginal sonography offers new opportunities in scanning for malformations during the first trimester of pregnancy. Scanning of the anterior abdominal wall and the umbilical cord insertion at this gestational age is feasible. A cross-sectional study of 61 embryos-fetuses from 7 to 12 weeks of gestation was performed to observe the physiologic midgut hernia. This herniation was detected in 64% of the cases at 8 weeks, in 100% during weeks 9 and 10, and in 25% at 11 weeks' gestation. None of the fetuses studied at 12 weeks had a midgut herniation. Vaginal sonography of the well-dated fetus at 12 weeks can confirm the final development of the anterior abdominal wall. PMID- 2528907 TI - Perinatal factors influencing atrial natriuretic peptide levels in umbilical arterial plasma at the time of delivery. AB - Little is known about atrial natriuretic peptide metabolism or secretion in the human fetus. The purpose of this study was to determine if both the placenta and umbilical vessels are possible sites of atrial natriuretic peptide metabolism and to evaluate the effects that labor, route of delivery, prolonged pregnancy, preeclampsia, and fetal distress have on umbilical arterial atrial natriuretic peptide levels. We found that plasma atrial natriuretic peptide levels in the umbilical artery are significantly greater than those in the vein (p less than 0.001). Umbilical arterial and umbilical venous atrial natriuretic peptide levels were higher in plasma samples collected immediately at delivery when compared with those obtained 10 minutes later (p less than 0.001). Umbilical arterial atrial natriuretic peptide levels were elevated in pregnancies complicated by preeclampsia and fetal distress (p less than 0.01). Labor, route of delivery, and prolonged pregnancy had no effect on umbilical arterial atrial natriuretic peptide levels. We propose that both the placenta and umbilical vessels contain atrial natriuretic peptide receptors that are involved in the clearance or metabolism of atrial natriuretic peptide. The increased umbilical arterial atrial natriuretic peptide levels present in preeclampsia and fetal distress may reflect an attempt by the fetus to regulate blood flow. PMID- 2528909 TI - Recurrence of functional ovarian cysts after laparoscopic fenestration. PMID- 2528910 TI - Abnormal expression of glycogen phosphorylase genes in regenerated muscle. AB - Physiological and molecular biological properties of free, orthotopic grafts of rat extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscle were determined at 28-, 42-, and 76 days postgraft. cDNA probes for the rat fetal (B), liver (L), and muscle (M) isozymes of glycogen phosphorylase were used to assay isozyme mRNA levels. Regenerating muscle grafts did not express nonmuscle phosphorylase isozymes in vivo in contrast to primary rat skeletal muscle explants in vitro. Low levels of M-phosphorylase mRNA were present at all stages of regeneration in the grafts. However, M-phosphorylase mRNA levels and activity increased markedly and nonuniformly in a subset of functionally and morphologically stabilized regenerated muscle fibers between 42- and 76-days postgraft. Biochemical, physiological, and histochemical characterization of the stabilized grafts demonstrated that all fibers present were innervated and indicated that innervation might be a necessary, but not sufficient, condition for the increase in M-phosphorylase expression. The nonuniform appearance of phosphorylase activity suggests that a differential activity profile imposed on muscle fibers by their motoneuron may govern M-phosphorylase gene expression. PMID- 2528911 TI - Effects of naloxone on glucose homeostasis during insulin-induced hypoglycemia. AB - The present study was designed to examine the role played by beta-endorphin in the physiological response to the stress of insulin-induced hypoglycemia. Three groups (n = 5, each) of conscious overnight-fasted dogs, chronically fitted with catheters in the femoral artery and in the third ventricle were used for these studies. Each experiment consisted of an 80-min equilibration period (0-80 min), a 40-min basal period (80-120 min), and a 180-min (120-300 min) experimental period. One group received a 220-min intracerebroventricular (icv) infusion of naloxone (0.2 mg/h) beginning at t = 80 min. The second group received a 3-h intravenous infusion of insulin at 5.0 mU.kg-1.min-1 beginning at t = 120 min. The third group received naloxone at t = 80 min and insulin beginning at t = 120 min, and both were continued throughout the experimental period. The studies show that insulin-induced hypoglycemia was associated with a rise in plasma cortisol, beta-endorphin, epinephrine, norepinephrine, and glucagon. Pretreatment with naloxone diminished the rises in plasma beta-endorphin, epinephrine, and norepinephrine without affecting the responses of plasma glucagon and cortisol. Although the levels of hypoglycemia achieved in the two groups were identical, glucose rates of appearance into and disappearance from the plasma compartment were higher in the group pretreated with icv naloxone (P less than 0.05).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528912 TI - Impaired production of nerve growth factor in the submandibular gland of diabetic mice. AB - The production of nerve growth factor (NGF) in submandibular glands was examined in two kinds of diabetic mice. In genetically diabetic (C57BL/KsJ db/db) mice, which manifest marked insulin resistance and hyperglycemia, the concentration of NGF in the submandibular gland was less than one-tenth that of the nondiabetic controls. In streptozotocin-induced diabetic C57BL/KsJ mice, which show pancreatic insulitis leading to insulin deficiency and hyperglycemia, the glandular NGF concentration fell in a time-dependent manner to 26% of control level at 5 wk after the streptozotocin injection. A daily administration of insulin to the streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice restored the NGF concentration to almost the control level. The molecular size of NGF (13 kDa) in the glandular extracts of the genetically diabetic (db/db) mice in Western blots was indistinguishable from that of the control mice, but its level was reduced in the glands of the diabetic (db/db) animals. Although plasma NGF concentrations were normally below the sensitivity of the assay (less than 0.80 ng/ml) in both the control and the diabetic (db/db) mice, administration of cyclocytidine, which stimulates NGF release from the submandibular gland into the blood circulation, increased the plasma NGF level to 5.95 ng/ml in the control mice, but it failed to do so in the diabetic (db/db) mice. These findings suggest that, in diabetic mice, NGF production in the submandibular gland and its capacity to release NGF into the circulation are decreased. PMID- 2528913 TI - Effects of atrial natriuretic peptide on renal medullary prostaglandin E2 production. AB - Like arachidonic acid (AA) and bradykinin (BK), the intrarenal administration of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) has been shown to increase the urinary excretion of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). In the present study, the direct in vitro effects of ANP on PGE2 production were compared with those of AA and BK. Canine renal inner medullary slices were preincubated for 30 min and washed in aerated Krebs-Ringer buffer (37 degrees C). During the final incubation period, with the use of varied concentrations of AA, BK, or ANP in Krebs-Ringer buffer, samples were obtained at 0 and 30 min to be used for radioimmunoassay of PGE2. Although the rate of PGE2 production was significantly increased 11-fold with AA and threefold with BK, it was unaffected by four different doses of ANP (10(-5) to 10(-11) M). Furthermore, the production of PGE2 during basal and stimulated (BK or AA) conditions was significantly blocked by indomethacin but not by ANP. These results indicate that ANP had no direct stimulatory or inhibitory effect on the medullary production of PGE2. PMID- 2528914 TI - Role of ANP in natriuresis of head-out immersion in humans. AB - Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) may play a role in the natriuresis after acute circulatory challenges. To assess this role in head-out water immersion (HOI), we compared in clearance studies the effect of 3 h HOI with an equally natriuretic 3 h infusion of ANP [0.01 microgram.kg-1.min-1 human ANP-(99-126)] in seven healthy individuals taking a 100 mmol sodium diet. The studies were repeated after treatment with enalapril (20 mg twice daily), which in previous studies inhibited the natriuresis after ANP. HOI caused a natriuresis equal to that of ANP infusion despite an about five times smaller rise in plasma ANP. HOI increased and ANP decreased estimated renal plasma flow (ERPF). HOI increased maximal free water clearance and decreased fractional lithium reabsorption. ANP did not affect these variables but raised minimal urine osmolality. Enalapril enhanced the fall in ERPF caused by ANP and abolished its natriuretic effect; enalapril did not impair either the natriuresis after HOI or the increase in ERPF and the fall in lithium reabsorption. These data indicate that the low dosage of ANP causes natriuresis by reducing sodium absorption in a distal nephron target segment; enalapril impairs this effect, perhaps by enhancing ANP-induced vasoconstriction, which decreases delivery to this target segment. HOI, by increasing sodium delivery to this segment, is natriuretic despite only a small rise in plasma ANP. Enalapril does not impair these effects. Although a rise in plasma ANP may be one factor in the natriuresis of HOI, the present data speak against an exclusive role. Other factors determine the magnitude of the natriuretic response. PMID- 2528915 TI - Autoradiographic localization of dopamine DA1 receptors in rat kidney with [3H]Sch 23390. AB - Dopamine receptors in the rat kidney were characterized by homogenate binding and in vitro autoradiography using the dopamine 1 (DA1)-selective antagonist [3H]Sch 23390. [3H]Sch 23390 binding in cortical membrane preparations was saturable, stereoselective, and competed for by DA agonists and antagonists with a rank order of potency consistent with the labeling of the DA1 receptor. [3H]Sch 22390 binding was best fit to a two-site model: a high affinity-low density site (KD1 4.9 +/- 1.4 nM, Bmax 1 31.4 +/- 13.8 fmol/mg protein) and a low affinity-high density site (KD2 86.4 +/- 23.9 nM, Bmax 2 848.0 +/- 227.4 fmol/mg protein). In vitro autoradiography indicated that [3H]Sch 22390 binding sites were restricted to the cortex. High-resolution autoradiography further indicated that [3H]Sch 22390 binding sites were localized primarily on proximal tubules. Glomeruli and other vascular elements were devoid of [3H]Sch 23390 binding sites. These results suggest that DA and DA1 agonists may affect sodium excretion by a direct action on proximal tubule sodium reabsorption. PMID- 2528916 TI - Evidence that intrarenal dopamine acts as a paracrine substance at the renal tubule. AB - Dopamine is synthesized within the kidney and dopamine 1 (DA1) receptors are associated with the proximal tubule. In pharmacological doses, dopamine increases renal blood flow and sodium excretion. It is possible that dopamine formed intrarenally acts locally via renal dopamine receptors to control renal function. We investigated the possible paracrine action of renal dopamine by intrarenal administration of a specific DA1 antagonist, Sch 23390, in doses confined to the kidney in conscious uninephrectomized dogs (n = 5) in metabolic balance at a sodium intake of 40 meq/day. Changes (mean +/- SE) in renal excretory and hemodynamic function in response to cumulative infusions of several doses of Sch 23390 (0.01, 0.1, 1.0, 5.0, and 10.0 pmol.kg-1.min-1) were studied. Sch 23390 at 0.01 pmol.kg-1.min-1 did not cause any changes in urinary flow rate or sodium excretion. Sch 23390 in doses from 0.1 to 10.0 mol.kg-1.min-1 caused a significant dose-dependent antidiuresis (F = 44.9, P less than 0.0001) and antinatriuresis (F = 42.1, P less than 0.0001) and a decrease in fractional sodium excretion (F = 44.2, P less than 0.0001). No changes in estimated renal plasma flow, glomerular filtration rate, plasma aldosterone concentration, plasma renin activity, or systemic arterial pressure occurred with any dose of intrarenal Sch 23390 infused into the renal artery. Rebound diuresis and natriuresis occurred after cessation of the DA1 blockade.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528917 TI - Compensatory hypertrophy and failure in gradual pressure-overloaded guinea pig heart. AB - Left ventricular hypertrophy has been produced in the guinea pig by a procedure that gradually increases left ventricular afterload. A mildly constricting band was placed around the ascending aortas of very young guinea pigs (225-275 g). With growth to 500-1,000 g, left ventricular systolic pressure increased and left ventricular hypertrophy developed. In approximately 50% of these animals, the hypertrophy was associated with normal left ventricular function and with no unusual symptoms or evidence of heart failure. The other animals developed dyspnea, which appeared an average of 41 days after banding. Dyspneic animals had normal body weight, markedly increased right ventricular and lung weights, decreased left ventricular norepinephrine content, diminished maximum left ventricular pressure generating capacity, and a significantly higher incidence of left ventricular interstitial and perivascular fibrosis. These findings demonstrate that even when left ventricular overload is imposed gradually by banding the aortas of young animals, myocardial decompensation ultimately ensues in a significant proportion of such animals. The slow imposition of loading, the slow rate of decompensation, and the ability to identify animals in heart failure by clinical dyspnea make this model uniquely valuable for studies on the mechanisms of heart failure. PMID- 2528918 TI - DOCA administration and atrial natriuretic factor in dogs with chronic heart failure. AB - The chronic reserve for the secretion of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) was studied in conscious dogs with an arteriovenous (a-v) fistula, a model of high output heart failure. After the first 7 days of marked sodium retention after creation of the a-v fistula, the animals regained sodium balance for the subsequent 3 wk. This compensatory natriuresis occurred in the presence of significant increases in right atrial pressure and was associated with marked and sustained elevations in plasma ANF and with the return of plasma renin and aldosterone to base-line values. The cardiac reserve for ANF secretion was further evaluated in these dogs with compensated high-output heart failure during additional progressive elevations in cardiac filling pressures induced by 3 wk of deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA) administration. During the DOCA regimen, plasma ANF increased an additional twofold from its high base line. Arterial blood pressure increased by 6-12 mmHg, and plasma renin activity was suppressed. However, the animals consistently retained sodium, and the high plasma levels of ANF were unable to counterbalance the sodium-retaining actions of DOCA. After termination of DOCA, the dogs exhibited a marked natriuresis, and all the hemodynamic and hormonal parameters returned to pre-DOCA control levels. This longitudinal study demonstrates that the cardiac reserve for chronic ANF secretion is well maintained in dogs with an a-v fistula during progressive cardiac volume overload. The present results suggest that the ANF endocrine system may represent one chronic compensatory mechanism to achieve sodium balance in heart failure when there is concomitant normalization of the renin-aldosterone system.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528919 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor gene expression in rat ventricle during experimental hypertension. AB - Activation of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) gene expression has been reported in the rat ventricle in several models of hemodynamic overload, including hypertension. However, nothing is known about the potential trigger(s) and the time course of this activation during the development of hypertension. We measured aortic blood pressure, left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), and left ventricular ANF mRNA concentration (LV ANF mRNA) in a first group of rats (study A) killed at 5 and 18 h and 2, 4, 6, 9, 15, and 30 days after suprarenal coarctation of the abdominal aorta. Coarctation induced a progressive rise in aortic blood pressure and left ventricular mass. We observed a biphasic accumulation of ANF mRNA in the left ventricle with a peak at day 4 averaging 20 times the control value long before stable hypertension and hypertrophy were achieved, followed by a decrease until day 9. This decrease was followed by a new rise, which stabilized around 10 times the control value seen during stable hypertension and hypertrophy. In a second group of rats killed at days 4 and 30 (study B), we determined, in addition to the previous parameters, left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP), plasma renin (PRC), and plasma ANF concentrations. LVEDP and PRC were markedly increased at day 4, but at day 30, during stable hypertension and hypertrophy, these parameters returned to control values, whereas plasma ANF was increased. Using immunocytochemistry, we looked in a third group of rats (study C) for the presence of the immunoreactive peptide at days 4 and 30.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528920 TI - Normal atrial natriuretic peptide release after acute and chronic stimuli in hypophysectomized rats. AB - To test the hypothesis that the pituitary gland has a role in modulating the release of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) from atrial myocytes, we applied different stimuli of both acute and chronic nature to rats 8-10 days after hypophysectomy (Hypx). Acute rapid cardiac pacing at a rate of 500 beats/min in anesthetized rats caused a marked increase in plasma levels of ANP (from 76 +/- 7 to 237 +/- 60 pg/ml, P less than 0.05) despite a marked decrease of blood pressure. This response was similar to that of paced control rats, but because the basal levels were lower in Hypx rats, the relative increase in ANP was larger in the experimental group. Studies were also done in a chronic model of high output congestive heart failure produced by an aortocaval fistula in hydrocortisone-supplemented rats. Although these rats had low blood pressure 2-3 days after surgery, there were marked increases in right atrial pressures associated with high plasma levels of ANP (194 +/- 24 pg/ml) that were not significantly different from controls (221 +/- 26 pg/ml, P greater than 0.05). These results indicate that the role of the pituitary in ANP release is indirect, and no specific hypophyseal factor is required for this response. Hemodynamic parameters are the important determinants of ANP secretion, even in hypophysectomized rats. PMID- 2528921 TI - Fetal cardiovascular, endocrine, and fluid responses to atrial natriuretic factor infusion. AB - The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) in the fetus and to explore the interactions among the fetal cardiovascular, endocrine, and fluid responses to ANF. In 12 chronically catheterized fetal sheep at 130 +/- 1 (SE) days gestation, ANF was infused intravenously for 30 min at 14-300 ng.min-1.kg-1. Fetal arterial plasma ANF concentration increased by 174 to 5,410 pg/ml from a preinfusion value of 163 +/- 13 pg/ml. The clearance of ANF from the circulation was 122 +/- 28 ml.min-1.kg-1 and the half-life was 0.46 +/- 0.07 min. When plasma ANF was greater than 2,000 pg/ml, fetal arterial pressure decreased, venous pressure increased transiently, and heart rate was unchanged. Plasma arginine vasopressin (AVP) concentration and plasma renin activity (PRA) increased with high ANF concentrations, while norepinephrine concentrations were unaffected. Fetal blood volume decreased in all fetuses, and urine flow increased significantly but not in every fetus. Blood and urine osmolalities did not change. On terminating the infusion, venous pressure and urine flow decreased below control, while blood volume and arterial pressure remained reduced. Plasma AVP concentration increased further, and this was accompanied by an increase in urine osmolality. Thus the most consistent effect of ANF in the fetus was a reduction in blood volume, which was independent of urine flow changes. Other cardiovascular, endocrine, and fluid responses to ANF as well as interactions among them appeared to occur largely at supraphysiological concentrations and may be secondary to the changes in blood volume.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528922 TI - Role of endogenous atrial natriuretic peptide in congestive heart failure. AB - Effects of purified rabbit anti-rat 25-amino acid atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) immunoglobulin G (IgG) on renal sodium excretion and glomerular filtration rate were studied in a rat model of congestive heart failure (CHF) having high circulating ANP levels. Bolus injection of anti-ANP into anesthetized rats with surgically induced myocardial infarction (MI) significantly and markedly depressed both absolute and fractional urinary excretion of sodium without affecting mean arterial pressure or glomerular filtration rate. By contrast, anti ANP failed to affect these renal functions in normal or acutely water-deprived rats. Nonimmune IgG did not affect renal function in MI rats. These results indicate that high circulating ANP plays an important role in sodium homeostasis of congestive heart failure: by promoting sodium excretion, ANP opposes the tendency of sodium retention characteristic of CHF. PMID- 2528923 TI - Reduced renal responses to volume expansion in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. AB - To determine whether the volume reflex is defective in the diabetic state, the diuretic and natriuretic responses to acute volume expansion (VE) were measured in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic (Dia) rats. Urine flow (UV) and sodium excretion (UNaV) were measured before and after VE from innervated and denervated kidneys in anesthetized (Inactin 0.1 g/kg, ip) control and Dia rats (Sprague Dawley rats injected with vehicle or STZ 65 mg/kg ip, respectively, 2 wk before the experiment). Blood glucose levels were significantly elevated in the Dia group compared with the control group. A VE of 1.2 ml/min for 15 min produced a significantly greater diuresis and natriuresis in control rats compared with Dia rats. In addition, reducing the hyperglycemia in Dia rats (third group) by treatment with insulin reversed the blunted UV and UNaV responses to VE. Ratios of UV (innervated-denervated, I/D) before and after VE indicate significant increases in UV by the innervated kidneys, relative to the denervated kidneys in all three groups. I/D ratios of UNa V were not different between the three groups before VE, but were significantly smaller in the Dia rats compared with both control and STZ plus insulin groups after VE. This study demonstrates that 1) there is an abnormal volume reflex in the STZ-induced Dia rats; 2) the natriuresis due to renal sympatho-inhibition is blunted in response to VE in Dia rats; and 3) restoring the glucose levels to normal by insulin treatment in the Dia rats normalizes the volume reflex. PMID- 2528924 TI - A computer-controlled anaesthetic gas mixer. AB - The theory and construction of a prototype computer-controlled gas mixer and flow regulator are described. The device is capable of controlling and mixing flows of oxygen, nitrous oxide and air. The accuracy and repeatability of the device is very high under given conditions, and its performance is quantified. The flow rate and oxygen concentration are selected from a microcomputer and the control program is written in BASIC. Possible improvements to the system are discussed as are uses in both clinical and research work. PMID- 2528925 TI - [Sufentanil-N2O2/O2 or halothane-N2O/O2 anesthesia in surgery of infants and children with congenital heart defects. Hemodynamics and plasma catecholamines]. AB - Sufentanil-nitrous oxide/oxygen anesthesia was compared to halothane-nitrous oxide/oxygen anesthesia in 44 infants and children undergoing cardiac surgery. Patients were randomly assigned to one of the two techniques studied, with 22 patients in each group. The mean weight was 8.3 (4.4-15.8) kg in the sufentanil (S) group and 11.7 (5.2-18) kg in the halothane (H) group. All patients were premedicated with IM atropine 0.01 mg/kg, morphine 0.2 mg/kg, and flunitrazepam 0.04 mg/kg. In the S group 1 micrograms/kg S was given intravenously for induction, followed by a cumulative dose of 4 micrograms/kg S until the beginning of surgery. In the H group anesthesia was induced with H 0.5-1.0 vol.% and for deepening of anesthesia increasing H concentrations of 0.5-1.0-1.5 vol.% were applied. Following intubation all patients were ventilated with nitrous oxide/oxygen (1:1). There were no significant differences between the two groups in systolic, diastolic and mean arterial blood pressures or in heart-rate response to induction and intubation. Peripheral arterial oxygen saturation increased significantly in cyanotic patients in both groups following induction. There were dose-dependent decreases in heart rate and small but significant decreases in mean and diastolic arterial pressure in the S group during deepening of anesthesia. There was a significantly greater decrease in systolic, diastolic and mean blood pressures during the same period in the H group whereas the reduction in heart rate was minimal. In addition, in 5 of 22 patients receiving H there were episodes of nodal rhythms with dramatic decreases in systemic arterial pressure and peripheral arterial oxygen saturation in cyanotic patients.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528926 TI - [A sufentanil dosage study in general surgery]. AB - Sufentanil is widely used for cardiac surgery in initial doses up to 15 micrograms/kg. It was expected that for general surgery much smaller doses would be appropriate. The aim of the study, therefore, was to find a dosage scheme for sufentanil that could be used in general surgery for operations lasting 1 h. METHODS. In 62 patients (Table 1), anesthesia was induced with 15 micrograms sufentanil and 0.2 mg/kg etomidate. According to a random group allocation, a bolus injection of sufentanil was administered 1 min before incision, so that the patients received 0.5, 1.0 or 1.5 micrograms/kg along with the initial dose. During maintenance anesthesia, repeat doses of 10 micrograms sufentanil were injected as required (rise in blood pressure and/or heart rate by more than 20%, or other stress signs i.e., sweating, movement). Intubation was facilitated by means of atracurium 0.5 mg/kg. Increments of 5-10 mg were given when needed. RESULTS. In the group of patients who had received 1.0 micrograms/kg, both the number requiring repeat doses, and the total number of repeat doses were significantly lower than in the 0.5 microgram/kg group. A further increase to 1.5 micrograms/kg did not prove to have any advantage and it led to a drop in blood pressure, that was more pronounced and of longer duration than in the other groups. CONCLUSION. A dose of 1.0 micrograms/kg, therefore, appeared to be the optimum initial dose in general surgery for operations lasting at least 1 h. PMID- 2528927 TI - Testosterone propionate induced changes in testicular phosphatases of musk shrew (Suncus murinus L.). AB - In order to investigate the role of testosterone (TP) on the physiology of the testis of the musk shrew, activities of acid phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase and adenosine triphosphatase, and DNA, protein and phospholipid contents ot the testis were compared under high and suppressed testosterone conditions. The result indicates that testosterone propionate administration to intact shrews resulted in a significant increase in the activities of testicular enzymes. Following TP the testis phospholipid: DNA ratio increased, whilst no change was observed in the enzyme activities in response to aminoglutethimide phosphate. The role of testosterone in regulating testis function of this non-scrotal primitive eutherian mammal is discussed. PMID- 2528928 TI - [Clinicobiological study of drug-induced renal diseases]. AB - The kidney is the main organ involved in drugs elimination and thereby is particularly liable to their toxic effect. The determination of renal function is thus of importance, before and during treatment with a potentially nephrotoxic drug or during trial of new drugs. In this general review, the main methods to measure renal function are briefly analysed. They consist either of simple dosages in blood and urine which allow to roughly evaluate renal functional value and its variations, or more sophisticated investigations which allow a more precise analysis of various nephron functions: glomerular filtration rate and renal plasma flow with measurement of clearances of exogenous markers, determination of basal or maximal tubular activities. The interest of these specific tests is illustrated by the results of a study performed in patients receiving streptozotocin, an antineoplastic nephrotoxic drug. In conclusion, nephrotoxicity of drugs may be in most cases prevented owing to an accurate knowledge of their pharmacokinetics and of risk factors inherent in patients, and to survey of renal function with suitable methods which may lead to modify drug dosage and/or to choose a therapy considering the own evolution of the disease and the possible occurrence of irreversible renal impairment. PMID- 2528929 TI - [Determination of a latent sensitivity to muscle relaxants by prick tests]. PMID- 2528930 TI - Effect of zearalenone on early pregnancy in guinea pigs. AB - Female guinea pigs were tested to determine whether they could serve as a model of zearalenone (ZEN) toxicosis during early pregnancy, as observed in domestic swine. Only 1 of 4 female guinea pigs that were given 21 mg of ZEN/kg of body weight orally during the first 8 days after mating was pregnant when examined 22 days after mating. Guinea pigs that were given 7 or 14 mg of ZEN/kg had normal fetal development. Serum concentrations of progesterone were less than 12 ng/ml in all guinea pigs 8 and 15 days after mating. Serum concentrations of progesterone were greater than 100 ng/ml in pregnant guinea pigs on day 22, but remained less than 12 ng/ml in nonpregnant guinea pigs. Three of 5 guinea pigs treated with 20 mg of ZEN/kg and only 1 of 4 guinea pigs given 30 mg of ZEN/kg on days 1 to 3 after mating were pregnant 22 days after mating. Female guinea pigs treated with 20 or 30 mg of ZEN/kg on days 4 to 5 or 6 to 8 after mating and female guinea pigs treated with 60 or 90 mg of ZEN/kg on days 4 and 5 after mating had normal pregnancies. Serum concentrations of progesterone were less than 10 ng/ml in all guinea pigs on day 15 and remained low on day 22 only in nonpregnant guinea pigs.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528931 TI - Blastocyst development on days 10 or 14 after consumption of zearalenone by sows on days 7 to 10 after breeding. AB - Sixteen primiparous sows were bred and fed either a control ration (n = 8) or a diet containing purified zearalenone (n = 8; 1 mg/kg of body weight) from days 7 to 10 after breeding. On day 7 after breeding, the jugular vein of each sow was cannulated and blood was collected at 20-minute intervals for 4 hours before feeding and 4 hours after feeding. On day 10 after breeding, blood samples were collected from 4 control sows and 4 zearalenone-fed sows at 20-minute intervals for 4 hours before collection of blastocysts. A similar blood sampling schedule was followed for the remaining 4 control and 4 zearalenone sows on day 14 after breeding. On day 10 after breeding, spherical blastocysts were recovered from all control sows and from 3 of 4 zearalenone-treated sows. Average diameter of blastocysts from zearalenone-treated sows were similar to that of control sows. On day 14 after breeding, blastocysts were recovered from all control sows and 3 of 4 zearalenone-treated sows. Blastocysts from the control sows were filamentous, whereas blastocysts from zearalenone-treated sows were fragmented and contained foci of necrosis. Incidence of luteinizing hormone (LH) secretory spikes per sow was less (P less than 0.01) in zearalenone-treated sows (0.25 +/- 0.25/4 h) than control sows (1.75 +/- 0.25/4 h) on day 10 after breeding. Incidence of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) secretory spikes was similar (P = 0.45) among treatments on days 7, 10, and 14 after breeding.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528932 TI - Concanavalin A-induced suppressor cell activity in intestinal mucosal leukocytes obtained from healthy cows. AB - Leukocytes isolated from the intraepithelium, lamina propria, and aggregated lymphoid follicles (ALF) of the bovine small intestinal mucosa were activated by concanavalin A (conA) to generate suppressor activity against the proliferative response of autologous and allogeneic leukocytes to conA, phytohemagglutinin, and pokeweed mitogen. Freshly obtained intraepithelium, lamina propria, and ALF leukocytes, preincubated with 25 to 50 micrograms/ml of conA for 24 to 48 hours, were able to inhibit the mitogenic responses of autologous and allogeneic lymphocytes when cocultured at a ratio greater than or equal to 1:1 (suppressor cells to responder cells). Depletion of adherent cells (monocytes/macrophages) by sequential plastic and gel adherence completely abrogated the conA-induced suppressor activity of all 3 leukocytes populations. However, reconstitution with autologous or allogeneic monocytes/macrophages during the induction phase restored the inducible suppressor activity. Addition of recombinant human interleukin-2 at a concentration as low as 5 U/ml during the responder phase enabled the responder population to recover the response apparently impaired by the conA-treated ALF leukocytes. At a concentration of 10 U/ml, human interleukin 2 was not only able to restore the responder population's response to phytohemagglutinin stimulation, but highly enhanced its proliferative ability. Although quantitative variations were observed between different cell populations and cells obtained from individual cows, the extent and general pattern of the inducible suppressor activity were similar in cells from cows studied. PMID- 2528933 TI - Intraepithelial T-lymphocyte subsets in the airways of normal subjects and of patients with chronic bronchitis. AB - Lymphocyte infiltration of central airway epithelium was evaluated in 13 normal nonsmoking subjects (Group 1), in 11 smokers without clinical signs of chronic bronchitis (Group 2), and in 34 patients who were smokers with chronic bronchitis and mild airflow limitation (Group 3). Bronchial samples were obtained through fiberoptic bronchoscopy. Murine monoclonal antibodies directed against cell surface antigens and an immunoperoxidase technique were used on cryostat sections to label in situ the following lymphocyte populations: T-lymphocytes (CD3+), helper/inducer T-cells (CD4+), suppressor/cytotoxic T-cells (CD8+) and B lymphocytes (leu 12+). Virtually no B-cells were found in central airway epithelium from subjects of any group. Conversely, consistent infiltration of epithelial layers with T-lymphocytes of both subsets was observed in all subjects, with a constant predominance of CD8+ over CD4+ cells. For any T-cell marker, differences between mean scores from Group 1 and Group 2 subjects were not statistically significant. On the other hand, mean lymphocyte numbers of both subsets were found increased in patients from Group 3 compared with subjects from the two other groups: statistically significant differences were observed for CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ cells (p less than 0.001). Furthermore, lymphocyte scores at two different airway generation were compared in some patients from Groups 2 and 3, and a significant positive correlation was observed. These results suggest that T-lymphocyte infiltration of central airway epithelium (1) may be a naturally occurring phenomenon that is amplified in the airways of smokers with chronic bronchitis, and (2) may represent the counterpart to the intraepithelial population of the intestine.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528934 TI - [Cutaneous side effects of antitumor chemotherapy]. PMID- 2528936 TI - Experience with the ipsilateral upper TRAM flap for postmastectomy breast reconstruction. AB - Twenty-seven patients who underwent postmastectomy breast reconstruction using the ipsilateral upper transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous (TRAM) flap are presented. We believe that there are several advantages in using this flap instead of the lower TRAM flap. The ipsilateral upper TRAM flap has a stronger and more predictable blood supply, involves easier and stronger abdominal wall repair and less operating time with less blood loss, and has a very acceptable donor site. PMID- 2528935 TI - [Acute generalized exanthematic pustulosis. Imputability of imipenem (Tienam)]. PMID- 2528937 TI - Chemotherapy-induced acral erythema: desquamating lesions involving the hands and feet. AB - Patients receiving very high doses of chemotherapeutic drugs, particularly cytarabine (cytosine arabinoside, ara-C, Cytosar), may develop chemotherapy induced acral erythema, a painful toxic rash of the palmar surfaces of the hands that progresses to edema, blister formation, and desquamation. In more severe cases, the feet are involved, and they show similar changes. Plastic surgeons may be consulted because of the hand involvement and the clinical resemblance, after desquamation, to a very superficial second-degree burn. In patients who have had bone marrow transplantation, this diagnosis must be distinguished from graft versus-host reaction--a desquamating skin lesion that can affect a similar anatomical area but that is progressive and productive of serious consequences. Acral erythema appears to be self-limited and requires only supportive treatment. PMID- 2528938 TI - Re: The use of superoxide dismutase in the syndrome of ischemic injury following abdominoplasty. PMID- 2528939 TI - Pharmacokinetics of foscarnet and distribution to cerebrospinal fluid after intravenous infusion in patients with human immunodeficiency virus infection. AB - To investigate the pharmacokinetics and effects of intravenous foscarnet, 13 relatively healthy male patients with human immunodeficiency virus infection and a mean CD4+ lymphocyte value of 0.45 x 10(-9) cells per liter were given a continuous intravenous infusion of foscarnet (0.14 to 0.19 mg/kg per min) for 8 to 21 days. Blood and urine samples were taken during and after drug administration to monitor foscarnet concentrations. Lumbar puncture was performed during the infusion in five patients. The concentrations in plasma showed large variations both within and between patients. The disposition of foscarnet could be explained by a triexponential equation (t1/2 lambda 1, 0.40 to 2.52 h; t1/2 lambda 2, 3.20 to 16.7 h; t1/2 lambda 3, 36 to 196 h). Renal clearance accounted for most of the plasma clearance, the difference probably reflecting the passage of foscarnet into bone. Up to 20% of the cumulative dose may have been deposited in bone 7 days postinfusion. Foscarnet was distributed to the cerebrospinal fluid in a concentration varying from 13 to 68% of the simultaneous concentration in plasma. Polyuria and polydipsia were recorded in all patients. There appears to be an association between the degree of malaise, including symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and headache, and concentrations in plasma above 350 mumol/liter. PMID- 2528940 TI - Characterization of vancomycin resistance in Enterococcus faecium and Enterococcus faecalis. AB - Vancomycin resistance in Enterococcus faecium 180, a clinical isolate from England, was studied. Resistance to vancomycin was transferable by conjugation to other enterococci. Expression of resistance was inducible and coincided with the appearance of a new membrane protein. PMID- 2528942 TI - Biosynthesis of zearalenone: a simple and efficient method to incorporate [13C]acetate label by using solid cultures. AB - A suitable method was developed to efficiently incorporate 13C-labeled acetate into zearalenone by using solid cultures. Periodic feeding of the label during the zearalenone production phase significantly increased the label incorporation for the singly labeled acetate. PMID- 2528941 TI - Treatment of Clostridium difficile-associated disease with teicoplanin. AB - Forty-seven patients affected by Clostridium difficile-associated disease were treated orally with either vancomycin (patients hospitalized from February 1984 to February 1987) or teicoplanin (from March 1987 to December 1988). All patients given teicoplanin remained asymptomatic after discontinuation of treatment, and all but one were also cleared of C. difficile. In the vancomycin group, clinical symptoms recurred in 3 of 23 evaluable patients, and follow-up cultures were positive in another asymptomatic case. PMID- 2528944 TI - Establishing a register of children with special needs. PMID- 2528943 TI - [Evaluation of long survival cases treated with intra-arterial cancer chemotherapy using implantable reservoirs]. AB - We have treated unresectable liver tumor with intraarterial infusion chemotherapy using an implantable reservoir since 1983. Out of the total 44 cases receiving the chemotherapy during the period from 1983 to February 1989, the evaluation of 8 cases (18.2%) surviving over a year is reported. The 8 cases consist of 3 cases of primary hepatic cancer, 4 cases of metastatic hepatic cancer and 1 case of malignant hemangiopericytoma of pelvis. The cases of primary hepatic cancer are 2 cases of hepatoma (413, 420 days) and 1 case of cancer of bile-duct (400 days). The metastatic cases are 1 case of gastric cancer (826 days), 2 cases of colo rectal cancer (698, 1080 days) and 1 cases of leiomyosarcoma of small intestine (577 days). A case of malignant hemangiopericytoma of pelvis has survived 4 years and 3 months after the infusion chemotherapy via the internal iliac artery. The two cases of colo-rectal cancer were treated with continuous infusion of FUDR via the proper hepatic artery using Infusaid. For the other cases, ADM and CDDP were infused repeatedly with single-shot type Infuse-a port. Intra-arterial infusion chemotherapy is very useful because treatment in the outpatient clinics is possible over the longterm, and it is possible for patients receiving the therapy to maintain quality of life. PMID- 2528945 TI - Health status of funeral service workers exposed to formaldehyde. AB - A study of 84 funeral service workers and 38 control subjects in Toronto, Canada, revealed that the embalmers reported chronic bronchitis, dyspnea, and nasal, eye, and skin irritation more frequently than controls. Apprentices reported symptoms and exhibited signs of irritation more frequently than experienced embalmers, but both of these groups were more affected than the inactive embalmers or the controls. Airborne formaldehyde levels were 0.36 +/- 0.19 ppm (mean +/- standard deviation) during 22 embalming procedures. General ventilation was shown to significantly lower the levels. No significant change in forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in 1 sec, FEF50 or FEF75 was demonstrated with formaldehyde exposure nor were the baseline lung function results significantly different from those 38 unexposed controls. Based on patch testing, 4% and 10% were sensitive to formaldehyde and glutaraldehyde, respectively, whereas none of the controls exhibited positive reactions. PMID- 2528946 TI - Beta-endorphin and calcitonin in human semen. AB - The levels of beta-endorphin (beta-E) and calcitonin were estimated in 36 samples of seminal plasma from semen of normospermic, oligozoospermic, and azoospermic origins and in pools of isolated sperm. The mean levels in plasma calculated for all samples examined were 192 +/- 224 pg/ml for beta-E and 754 +/- 397 pg/ml for calcitonin. The amounts in sperm were as follows: for beta-E in pools with sperm counts of 0.1-10 x 10(6)/ml, 157.2 +/- 99.7 pg/10(8) and 27.9 +/- 23.6 pg/ml protein; in pools of greater than 10-30 x 10(6)/ml, 71.2 +/- 41.5 pg/10(8) and 6.5 +/- 1.2 pg/mg protein; in pools of greater than 30-200 x 10(6)/ml, 24.9 +/- 9.7 pg/10(8) and 61 +/- 1.9 pg/mg protein. For calcitonin the amounts were: 501.2 +/- 170.8 pg/10(8) and 27.4 +/- 21.5 pg/mg protein, correspondingly. It was suggested that beta-E and calcitonin present in seminal plasma are synthesized mostly in a compartment of the male reproductive system. The high cellular beta-E and calcitonin levels would be involved in the process of motility through their effect on calcium transport. PMID- 2528947 TI - [IgE-Fc receptor expressions on bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) cells in a patient with eosinophilic pneumonia accompanied with bronchial asthma--the effect of ketotifen on their expression]. AB - In this study, IgE-Fc receptor expressions on each type of BAL cells (lymphocytes, macrophages and eosinophils) in a patients with eosinophilic pneumonia accompanied by bronchial asthma were examined by indirect immunofluorescent method using monoclonal antibody (H107). BAL cell findings showed marked increases of total BAL cell counts and eosinophils, an increased number of lymphocytes and the presence of basophilic cells. These results match those of our previous report. Furthermore, IgE-Fc receptor expressions on lymphocytes, macrophages and eosinophils were markedly increased as compared to those in the peripheral blood and normal control subjects. These findings suggest that IgE production in the lung plays the main role in the pathogenesis of eosinophilic pneumonia and bronchial asthma. On the other hand, during ketotifen administration, decreases of peripheral blood eosinophilia, of eosinophilia in the sputum and of serum IgE level and an improvement in chest X-ray findings were observed. Furthermore not only normalization of total BAL cell counts but also decreases of IgE-Fc receptor expressions on BAL cells were observed. PMID- 2528949 TI - The effect of histamine challenge on platelet count and platelet activation. AB - There is conflicting evidence of platelet involvement in asthmatic bronchoconstriction. We sought direct evidence of platelet activation and indirect evidence of platelet sequestration following histamine challenge (HC) in 14 asthmatics and seven non asthmatic control subjects. Peripheral platelet counts and levels of beta thromboglobulin (BTG) were measured immediately before and following HC in the 21 subjects. There were no significant differences in the platelet counts or BTG levels, before or after HC, within or between the two groups. These results do not support platelet activation or accumulation in the lungs occurring immediately following histamine induced bronchoconstriction in asthmatics. PMID- 2528948 TI - Detection and quantification of lipoprotein(a) in the arterial wall of 107 coronary bypass patients. AB - The aim of this study was to determine the extent of accumulation of lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] in human arterial wall and to define its potential role in atherogenesis. Biopsies routinely taken from the ascending aorta of 107 patients undergoing aortocoronary bypass surgery were analyzed for lipid and lipoprotein parameters, which were then correlated to serum values. A significant positive correlation was established between serum Lp(a) and arterial wall apolipoprotein (apo)(a) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. High serum Lp(a) also led to a significant increase of apo B in the arterial wall. No significant correlation was found between apo B in serum and aortic tissue. Apo B was found to be partially linked to apo(a) in the aortic extract. Furthermore, apo(a) was found to be intact, as determined by its molecular weight in sodium dodecyl sulfate electrophoresis. This technique also revealed that the apo(a) isoform pattern of aortic homogenate was comparable to the individual serum pattern. Immunohistochemical methods demonstrated a striking colocalization of apo(a) and apo B in the arterial wall, predominantly located extracellularly. Both proteins were increased in atherosclerotic plaques. With density gradient ultracentrifugation, Lp(a)-like particles could be isolated from plaque tissue. This initial study showed that Lp(a) accumulates in the arterial wall, partly in the form of lipoprotein-like particles, therefore contributing to plaque formation and coronary heart disease. PMID- 2528950 TI - A unique low frequency Raman band associated with metal binding to metallothionein. AB - We find that the low frequency Raman spectrum of Zn(II) metallothionein has a single prominent band at 138 cm-1 which is absent from the Raman spectrum of the metal-free protein. This feature is also found for Cd(II) binding to both of the independent metallothionein domains and the metallothionein from Neurospora crassa. TcO(III) coordination to metallothionein results in a similar Raman band which is also found for the complex (Ph4As)[ReO(SCH2CH2S)2]. By comparing these results to literature data for metal-thiolate complexes, this feature is identified as a bending vibration which appears to be characteristic of metal ion coordination by the metallothionein cysteines. Two likely assignments are a symmetric metal-centered mode (delta S-M-S) or a bending mode of the metal coordinated cysteine thiolates (delta M-S-C). PMID- 2528951 TI - Phosphorylation and dephosphorylation of the natriuretic peptide urodilatin (CDD /ANP-95-126) and the effect on biological activity. AB - Urodilatin (CDD-/ANP-95-126), a new peptide hormone from human urine, is comprised of the same amino acid sequence as cardiodilatin (CDD-99-126/alpha hANP) except for N-terminal extention by four amino acid residues. The presence of the recognition sequence Arg101-Arg-Ser-Ser104 for the cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase enables rapid phosphorylation in the Ser104-position. Phosphorylation of urodilatin is associated with decreased vasorelaxant potency, while dephosphorylation of "phospho-urodilatin" by acidic phosphatase completely restores bioactivity. PMID- 2528952 TI - Molecular cloning and sequence analysis of cDNA for human hepatocyte growth factor. AB - Amino acid sequences of four peptide fragments of human hepatocyte growth factor purified from the plasma of patients with fulminant hepatic failure were determined. Based on the amino acid sequence of one of the fragments, two oligodeoxyribonucleotide mixtures were synthesized and used to screen a human placenta cDNA library. On the screening, two overlapping cDNA clones for human hepatocyte growth factor were isolated and the nucleotide sequence of the cDNA was determined. The entire primary structure of the protein was deduced from the sequence. The protein consists of 728 amino acid residues, including a possible signal peptide at the N-terminus. The sequence revealed that the heavy and light chains which comprise the protein are encoded by the same mRNA and are produced from a common translation product by proteolytic processing. PMID- 2528953 TI - Inhibition of DNA synthesis causes stem cell differentiation: induction of teratocarcinoma F9 cell differentiation with nucleoside analogues of DNA synthesis inhibitors and their inducing abilities counterbalanced specifically by normal nucleosides. AB - Nucleoside analogues inhibiting DNA synthesis can induce cell differentiation in teratocarcinoma cells. We have examined how their abilities to induce F9 cell differentiation were specifically counterbalanced by their corresponding normal nucleosides. We have also compared the differentiation inducing ability of the wild type F9 cells with that of its thymidine kinase-less mutant using plasminogen activator, as a differentiation marker, which is expressed at a very early stage of endodermal cell differentiation and can be assayed quantitatively. The results obtained were clearly explainable by the conventionally accepted action mechanisms of the nucleoside analogues, thus strongly suggesting that their abilities to induce cell differentiation were direct consequences of the inhibition of DNA synthesis; thus this confirms the notion that a close association exists between the inhibition of DNA synthesis and the induction of teratocarcinoma stem cell differentiation. PMID- 2528954 TI - Effect of inhibitors of glycoprotein processing on integrin and the adhesion of myoblasts to extracellular matrix proteins. AB - The effect of the glucosidase inhibitors N-methyl-1-deoxynojirimycin (MDJN) and bromoconduritol on the adhesion of chick myoblasts and rat L6 myoblasts to fibronectin and laminin was compared with that of the mannosidase I inhibitor, 1 deoxymannojirimycin (ManDJN). Chick and rat L6 myoblasts treated with glucosidase inhibitors showed impaired binding to fibronectin. Glucosidase inhibitor-treated chick, but not rat L6, myoblasts also showed impaired binding to laminin. In contrast ManDJN had no significant effect on the adhesion of rat or chick cells to either substrate, suggesting that complex oligosaccharides are not required for normal biosynthesis of myoblast fibronectin or laminin receptors. Binding of monoclonal antibody JG22 to glucosidase-inhibitor-treated myoblasts revealed a marked decrease in the number of integrin molecules available at the cell surface. We suggest that the previously reported inhibitory effects of glucosidase inhibitors on the terminal differentiation of myoblasts may be mediated, at least in part, through their effect on integrin accumulation. PMID- 2528955 TI - NH2-terminal amino acid sequence of rabbit hepatopoietin A, a heparin-binding polypeptide growth factor for hepatocytes. AB - Hepatopoietin A (HPTA) is an acidic heparin-binding polypeptide growth factor for hepatocytes with properties distinct from other known heparin-binding growth factors. HPTA is a heterodimer consisting of a heavy and a light polypeptide chain with Mr of 70,000 and 35,000 respectively. HPTA is a complete mitogen for hepatocytes in that it stimulates DNA synthesis in hepatocytes maintained in serum-free medium. Its complete purification from rabbit serum or human plasma was reported by us elsewhere (R. Zarnegar and G. Michalopoulos, 1989). In the present communication we report the N-terminal amino acid sequence of the HPTA light chain up to 24 residues (VVNGKPTRTNVGRMVSLKYRNKHI) and show that this sequence is unique and not related to any other proteins or growth factors based on computer search analysis. We have also raised antiserum against a synthetic peptide corresponding to the sequence of N-terminal amino acids residues 1 to 24, which recognizes the whole HPTA molecule. This antiserum as well as oligonucleotide probes corresponding to the N-terminal amino acid sequence of HPTA can be used as probes to identify tissue(s) of origin of this growth factor and assist in molecular cloning of its gene. PMID- 2528956 TI - The association of the autoantigens of primary biliary cirrhosis with the mitochondrial H+-ATPase--a reassessment. AB - The claimed association between the M2 autoantigens of primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) and the mitochondrial H+-ATPase has been re-examined in view of the recent reports that PBC autoantibodies react specifically with the lipoate acetyl transferases of 2-oxo acid dehydrogenases. Study of F0F1-ATPase purified from human and yeast mitochondria, and the comparison between immunoprecipitates obtained with antibodies against the H+-ATPase beta subunit and anti-M2 antibodies of PBC, established that the M2 antigens are not associated with the H+-ATPase complex. The M2 antigens did copurify with a crude bovine heart F1 ATPase preparation, but not with F1-ATPase from yeast, human heart or human liver. PMID- 2528957 TI - Expression of pregnancy specific beta 1-glycoprotein gene in human placenta and hydatiform mole. AB - Transcriptional studies of the placental protein Pregnancy Specific beta 1 Glycoprotein (SP1 or PS beta G) gene with a cDNA probe in Northern blot analysis showed 15-20 folds mRNA increase in term placenta compared with early placenta and hydatiform mole. This value parallels the SP1 amount translated in wheat germ cell-free system. We conclude that SP1 biosynthesis is regulated at transcriptional level during placental development and a similar mechanism would occur in hydatiform mole which is a hyperplastic trophoblast tumor. PMID- 2528958 TI - Biochemical characterization and comparison of rat thromboxane A2/prostaglandin H2 receptors in platelets and cultured aortic smooth muscle cells. AB - Comparison of thromboxane A2/prostaglandin H2 (TXA2/PGH2) receptors in rat cultured vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) with those in rat gel-filtered platelets (GFP) was carried out using a receptor-ligand binding assay. The binding of each of three radiolabeled TXA2/PGH2 receptor antagonists [( 3H]S 145,[3H]SQ29,548, and [3H]ONO3708) displayed high affinity and specificity as well as saturable and displaceable binding to a single class of recognition sites with the same maximum number in both VSMC and GFP. The Kd values for [3H]S-145 were almost identical for both VSMC and GFP, whereas the values for [3H]SQ29,548 and [3H]ONO3708 for VSMC were approximately two and six times larger than that for GFP. Kinetic analysis of the binding of each receptor antagonist revealed a smaller K1 value (the association rate constant) for [3H]SQ29,548 and a larger K 1 value (the dissociation rate constant) for [3H]ONO3708 for VSMC compared to GFP, in contrast with almost the same kinetic constants for the [3H]S-145 binding for both cells. Comparison of the inhibitory potencies (Ki values) for [3H]S-145 binding for both VSMC and GFP proved that S-145 had the same affinity for both cells; ONO11120 and BM13177, as well as SQ29,548 and ONO3708, possessed lower affinity for VSMC; and U46619 exhibited higher affinity for VSMC. The rank orders of potency were identical in both cells (S-145 greater than SQ29,548 greater than ONO3708 greater than ONO11120 greater than BM13177), which correlated well with their pharmacological activities. These results suggest a similarity in ligand binding specificity with some differences in the accessibility of the antagonists in the TXA2/PGH2 receptors between platelets and vascular smooth muscles. PMID- 2528960 TI - The 1986 Education of the Handicapped Act and judicial decisions relating to the child who is hearing impaired. PMID- 2528959 TI - Absorption of amlodipine unaffected by food. Solid dose equivalent to solution dose. AB - The oral bioavailability of amlodipine in healthy volunteers was compared in two separate studies after solution and capsule doses, and after capsule doses in fed and fasting states. The bioavailability of amlodipine was equivalent both in terms of rate and in extent of absorption between solution and capsule doses and in the fed and fasting states. PMID- 2528961 TI - Molecular cloning of cDNAs expressing SS-B/La protein. AB - Using serum from a patient with Sjogren's syndrome containing a high titer of anti-SS-B/La antibody, cDNA clones (a representative clone was called pA158) were isolated from a human fibroblast cDNA library in lambda gt11 expression vector. After subcloning of pA158 cDNA into an expression plasmid vector pEX-2, a large amount of the recombinant fusion protein with cro-beta-galactosidase (called pA158EX) was obtained in E. coli culture containing the recombinant pEX-2. Antibodies against pA158EX were purified from the patient serum by Sepharose 4B conjugated with the purified pA158EX protein. Immunofluorescent staining of HEp-2 cells with the anti-pA158EX antibodies showed a speckled nuclear staining. In immunoblot analysis, the anti-pA158EX antibodies reacted with 50 kDa protein that was compatible with SS-B/La protein. Immunoprecipitation of leukocyte lysate with the anti-pA158EX antibodies and the following RNA analysis showed that the antibody precipitated Y5 RNA. These findings indicate pA158 is a cDNA for SS-B/La protein. The purified fusion protein was used for enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Optical density values of anti-SS-B positive sera were high, but those of anti-SS-B negative sera and healthy donor sera were low. In the Northern blot using human RNA and pA158 cDNA, a single band about 1.8 kb was recognized. A full-length cDNA was further obtained by screening of pcD library using pA158 cDNA as a probe. PMID- 2528962 TI - The effect of alpha-human atrial natriuretic peptide on the incidence of acute renal failure in cadaveric kidney transplantation. AB - In previous studies in humans, mannitol (20%, 250 ml) has been shown to reduce the incidence of acute renal failure (ARF) after transplantation from 54% to 19%. In rats, atrial natriuretic peptide appears to prevent ischemia-induced ARF. We therefore decided to evaluate the effects of alpha-human atrial natriuretic peptide (alpha-h-ANP) both alone and combined with mannitol during transplantation in humans. First, we demonstrated that systemic alpha-h-ANP infusion during kidney transplantation was safe in dosages up to 0.08 micrograms/kg per minute. In these patients the calculated metabolic clearance rate of alpha-h-ANP was relatively low ranging from 0.68 to 1.80 l/min. In a second study of 11 renal graft recipients, no mannitol was used and alpha-h-ANP (0.05 micrograms/kg per minute) was infused into the donor kidney artery during transplantation for 46 +/- 2 min, followed by IV administration for 71 +/- 2 min. Our aim was to reduce the incidence of ARF. Nevertheless, ARF occurred immediately after surgery in four of the patients (36%) in this group and, as a result, mannitol was reintroduced. A third group of nine renal graft recipients received alpha-h-ANP (total dose 400 micrograms) as five IV injections within 90 min after transplantation. ARF occurred in four of these patients (44%). We conclude that alpha-h-ANP, administered according to the aforementioned protocols in such small groups of patients, does not seem to be of value in the prevention of ARF after transplantation. PMID- 2528963 TI - Charge translocation by the sarcoplasmic Ca ATPase after an ATP concentration jump. PMID- 2528964 TI - In vitro synthesis of visual rhodopsin for a protein engineering study. PMID- 2528965 TI - Regulation of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-sensitive and -insensitive Ca2+ pools in exocrine glands. PMID- 2528966 TI - NMR study on the major components in hematoporphyrin derivative YHPD. AB - The hematoporphyrin derivative YHPD, a China-made product, has been clinically used in photodynamic therapy of tumors as a good photosensitizing drug. The NMR study on the structure of its major components is reported here. In terms of high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) four major components A, B, C and D were isolated. The NMR results showed that the component A is O-acetylhematoporphyrin, B and C are two isomers of vinyldeuteroporphyrin. The spectra of 2-dimensional homonuclear correlation NMR, 2-dimensional NOE (nuclear overhauser enhancement), 13C-NMR and off-resonance as well as FAB (fast atom bombarding) mass spectrum of component D indicate that it is a protoporphyrin dimer linked by carbon-carbon bond. This finding may provide a chemical basis for understanding the difference in biological activity between YHPD and other foreign commercial HPD, as well as the composition of clinically used alkali-treated HPD and its effective component. PMID- 2528967 TI - [Duration of breast feeding in an urban area of Sao Paulo, Brazil]. AB - Duration of breast-feeding was studied by the authors among a representative sample of families with children under one year of age that resided in the area of coverage of the Health Center-School Samuel B. Pessoa in the borough of Butanta, Sao Paulo. The data was obtained by means of home interviews in which respondents were questioned about what type of food the child was eating that day, so that they did not have to depend on memory. The median duration of breast feeding was found to be 2.8 months (84 days), thus showing that in the area under study early weaning is still practiced. Nevertheless, the study confirms the trend observed in the city of Sao Paulo in the last few years of a return to breast-feeding. This conclusion is supported by the fact that, contrary to the pattern in the previous decade, longer duration of breast-feeding is associated with higher academic levels of the parents (both), i.e., the practice is on the increase among the higher social and economic segments of the population. The study shows that the father can play a significant role in breast-feeding patterns. No correlation was found between breast-feeding duration and number of siblings, per capita monthly income, academic level of the mother, or the regularity of health check-ups. PMID- 2528968 TI - Comparison of the distribution of D-1 and D-2 dopamine receptors in the rat brain. AB - The distribution of dopamine type 1 (D-1) and dopamine type 2 (D-2) receptors in the brain have been compared as assessed by the technique of autoradiography after labelling with highly selective ligands. D-1 receptors, as evidenced by the specific binding of [3H]R-(+)-8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-3-methyl-5-phenyl-IH-3 benzazepine -7- ol (SCH 23390), were found in high concentrations in the caudate putamen, nucleus accumbens, islands of Calleja, olfactory tubercle and the zona reticulata of the substantia nigra. A similar but distinct distribution was seen for [3H]sulpiride, a ligand which is highly selective for D-2 receptors. Like [3H]SCH 23390, this ligand also labelled the caudate-putamen, nucleus accumbens, islands of Calleja and the olfactory tubercle; however, only a very low density of D-2 receptors could be found in the zona reticulata of the substantia nigra, while a greater degree of binding was present in the zona compacta. Additional brain areas which contained D-1 but not D-2 receptors included the cerebral cortex, accessory olfactory nucleus, amygdala, thalamus, suprachiasmatic nucleus, choroid plexus, claustrum, endopiriform nucleus, zona incerta, dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus and the dentate gyrus. D-2 receptors were also found in areas which appeared to contain only low amounts of D-1 receptors such as the glomerular layer of the olfactory bulb, bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, hypothalamus, habenula, stratum lacunosum moleculare of the hippocampus, intermediate lobe of the pituitary, lateral mammillary nucleus, periaqueductal gray, inferior colliculus, nodulus of the cerebellum and the dorsal horn of the spinal cord. The results show the precise localization of dopamine receptors throughout the brain and provide a means of direct comparison between the distribution of dopamine receptor subtypes. These subtypes are pharmacologically and anatomically distinct entities and their comparison indicates areas where additional biochemical and neuroanatomical studies may be performed to elucidate the roles for these receptor subtypes in the central nervous system. PMID- 2528969 TI - Nature, time course and dose dependence of zidovudine-related side effects: results from the Multicenter Canadian Azidothymidine Trial. AB - To characterize the nature, time course and dose dependency of zidovudine-related side effects, we undertook a multicenter, prospective, dose-range finding study. Our study group consisted of 74 HIV-positive homosexual men belonging to groups II B, III and IV C2 from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) classification of HIV disease. Following a 3-week observation period, volunteers were treated with zidovudine 600 mg/day for 18 weeks, 900 mg/day for 9 weeks and 1200 mg/day for 9 weeks, followed by a washout period of 6 weeks after which they were re-started on 1200 mg/day or the highest tolerated dose at 8-hourly intervals. Subjects were randomly assigned to 4-hourly or 8-hourly regimens within CDC groups while taking 600 and 1200 mg/day. Clinical and laboratory evaluations were performed at 3-week intervals. Symptomatic adverse effects were present in 96% of subjects, most commonly nausea (64%), fatigue (55%) and headache (49%). These were generally self-limited, reappearing briefly at each dose increment. A decrease in hemoglobin occurred shortly after initiation of therapy. This was not dose dependent and reversed rapidly upon discontinuation of treatment. A red blood cell count decrease, a mean cell volume increase and a granulocyte count decrease developed early in a dose-independent fashion, reverting at least partially during the washout phase. The decrease in reticulocyte count was dose related between 600 and 900 mg/day with no further change when the dose was escalated to 1200 mg/day. Bone marrow changes occurred rapidly as demonstrated by megaloblastosis in 95% of 65 specimens at week 18.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528970 TI - Effects of serum amyloid A protein on lymphocytes, HeLa, and MRC5 cells in culture. AB - A major human acute phase protein, the serum amyloid A protein, has been tested in vitro for its effect on lymphocyte proliferation, the formation of E-stable rosettes, as well as the growth of HeLa and MRC5 cell cultures. Serum amyloid A protein has been found to be markedly inhibitory at 30, 100, 200, and 300 micrograms/mL, and is a very potent inhibitor of in vitro biological functions. PMID- 2528971 TI - Risk factors for low back pain and sciatica. AB - So far, eight prospective studies and 50 cross-sectional or retrospective studies have focused on risk factors for low back syndromes. Half of these have been published during the 1980s. Hard physical work and, in particular, frequent lifting and postural stress are likely to result in disc degeneration, low back pain and sciatica. Physical strain may also have prophylactic effects, as physical leisure activity and muscular strength are negatively associated with the risk of low back pain. Much evidence points to driving motor vehicles being causally associated with low back pain and sciatica. A probably causal relationship exists between body height and risk of sciatica, but height is not necessarily predictive of other types of low back pain. Obesity, smoking, psychological distress and poor general health also carry increased risk of low back pain, but their causal role is questionable. Although none of the suspected risk factors can be described as having been conclusively investigated epidemiologically, the results of published studies show that there are modifiable factors contributing to low back pain. The overall potential of primary prevention is great if adequate tools for intervention can be developed. PMID- 2528972 TI - Different effects of ethanol on particle phagocytosis via different receptors in human monocytes. AB - Endocytosis of test particles by human blood monocytes (Mo) was tested in the presence of ethanol (80 mM). Phagocytosis via the Fc (IgG)- or C3b receptors (R) was assessed by an assay in which IgG- or C3b coated sheep erythrocytes (E) were used as test particles. Latex particles were tested in parallel with opsonized E. Phagocytosis of IgG-E was reduced to 67 +/- 5% of control (= without ethanol), while the corresponding value for C3b-E was 164 +/- 26% controls. Phagocytosis of latex particles was not affected by ethanol exposure (91 +/- 8% of control). The receptor functions were also tested without ethanol present during the assays. In this part of the study, Mo were incubated with or without ethanol in autologous serum for 15 min at 37 degrees C. After washing the cells free of ethanol, binding properties of the Fc-R or C3b-R were assessed by a rosette assay. Preincubation with ethanol reduced Fc-R binding, while attachment to C3b-R seemed to be more effective. The experiments thus indicate different effects of ethanol treatment in vitro on phagocytic receptors in human Mo. Control experiments revealed no direct effect of ethanol on the test particles. PMID- 2528973 TI - Seeing either the forest or the trees: dissociation in visuospatial processing. AB - Traditionally, visuospatial processing has resisted fractionation into functional substrates. Recently, however, it has been shown that the brain honors the distinction between global and local processing of hierarchical visual stimuli: unilateral left hemisphere brain-damaged subjects were impaired in their ability to draw the local forms of a hierarchical design, whereas right hemisphere damaged patients demonstrated the opposite pattern (Delis, Robertson, & Efron, 1986; Delis, Kiefner, & Fridlund, 1988). The present study reports a similar pronounced dissociation in hierarchical visual processing but in quite different populations and in the absence of focal structural brain damage. Mentally retarded subjects with Williams Syndrome are considerably more impaired in global relative to local analysis, whereas subjects with Down Syndrome display the opposite pattern. These results, in concert with other neuropsychological data, are provocative because they suggest that certain cognitive deficits may cluster even in the absence of frank cerebral damage, just as they cluster following insult to one hemisphere. These findings should provide clues to the interrelationship of components of visuospatial processing and other cognitive functions. PMID- 2528974 TI - Changes in myocardial contractile protein ATPases in chronically adrenalectomized rats with and without glucocorticoid replacement. AB - Studies were conducted to examine the effects of chronic adrenalectomy (Adx) and adrenalectomy plus glucocorticoid replacement therapy on rat cardiac contractile protein ATPase activities. The Ca2+-dependent Mg-ATPase activity of myofibrils isolated from rat ventricles 3 weeks postadrenalectomy (Adx) was significantly decreased at all pCa2+ concentrations (P less than 0.01), compared to sham operated (SO) rats. Similarly, Ca2+-, K+-EDTA, and actin-activated myosin ATPase activities of Adx rat hearts were markedly decreased below that of SO rats (P less than 0.01). Dexamethasone administration to Adx rats prevented the decrease of Ca2+- and K+-ATPase activities of myosin, but not of myofibrillar Ca2+ dependent Mg-ATPase or actin-activated myosin Mg-ATPase activities. These studies suggest that glucocorticoid insufficiency induced by adrenalectomy results in altered myocardial contractile protein ATPase activity which may underlie impaired cardiac performance. PMID- 2528975 TI - [Nutritional assessment of severely retarded children and adults]. AB - The nutritional status was assessed with physical and biochemical parameters on 39 severely retarded children and adults, 17 males and 22 females, ranging from 6 to 40 years of age. In the anthropometric measurements, a majority of the cases showed short stature, light body weight, decreased triceps skinfold thickness and decreased mid-upper arm muscle circumference. The analysis of serum amino acids showed decreases of the sum of essential amino acids, the sum of branched chain amino acids, the ratio of the sum of essential amino acids to the sum of nonessential amino acid, and the ratio of the [methionine + tryptophan] to [valine + lysine + threonine]. The levels of prealbumin and transferrin in the serum were within normal limits. Other biochemical parameters were lower limits, including total protein, albumin, total cholesterol, triglyceride, phospholipid and total lipids in the serum. In addition, the level of fasting blood glucose tended to be low, and levels of serum free fatty acid were markedly different between before and after breakfast. These results suggest the presence of nutritional disturbances in most of severely retarded children and adults. PMID- 2528977 TI - Insensitive headline. PMID- 2528976 TI - Dental services for children with mental handicaps: policy changes and parental choices. AB - Dental services for children with mental handicaps are subject to conflicting policies. On the one hand, the community dental service is being asked to move towards a more specialised role and to focus on disadvantaged groups such as people with mental handicaps. On the other hand, policies for community care have stressed that handicapped people are stigmatised by specialised provision and should have access to all the services used by non-handicapped people. A longitudinal study of 162 mentally handicapped children provided an opportunity to assess parents' opinions on this issue. The results showed high levels of contact with the dental services. Most parents were satisfied with the care their children had received, although there was some suggestion of a preference for receiving care from the general dental practitioner service. However, parents whose children were hard to manage tended to prefer the more specialised care provided by the community dental service. The results of the study suggested that there is a continuing role for the community dental service and that general dental practitioners may need support from the community dental service to help them meet the demands of parents whose children have a mental handicap. PMID- 2528978 TI - A new learning package. PMID- 2528979 TI - The role of dentistry in patients undergoing bone marrow transplantation. AB - It is imperative that a comprehensive dental examination should be performed in all patients who are to undergo a bone marrow transplantation. Such assessments should be carried out prior to and after the transplantation procedure. This paper addresses the implications of marrow transplantation and the impact on dental treatment. The side-effects of transplantation chemotherapy, radiation treatment and graft versus host disease and their impact on the oral cavity are also discussed in this paper. PMID- 2528980 TI - Subclinical cardiac dysfunction in acromegaly: evidence for a specific disease of heart muscle. AB - Acromegaly is associated with an increased cardiac morbidity and mortality, but it is not clear whether this is the result of increased incidence of hypertension and coronary heart disease or of a specific disease of heart muscle. Thirty four acromegalic patients were studied by non-invasive techniques. Seven of these patients had raised plasma concentrations of growth hormone at the time of study; three were newly diagnosed and had not received any treatment. Hypertension was present in nine (26%) but only three (9%) had electrocardiographic left ventricular hypertrophy. Echocardiography showed ventricular hypertrophy in 12 (48%) and increased left ventricular mass in 17 (68%) patients. Holter monitoring detected important ventricular arrhythmias in 14 patients. Thallium-201 scanning showed evidence for coronary heart disease in eight patients. Systolic time intervals were normal except when there was coexistent ischaemic heart disease. A comparison between 19 acromegalic patients with no other detectable cause of heart disease and 22 age matched controls showed appreciably abnormal left ventricular diastolic function in the group with acromegaly. The abnormalities shown did not correlate with left ventricular mass or wall thickness. There was no difference in diastolic function between patients with active acromegaly and those with treated acromegaly. Hypertensive acromegalic patients had worse diastolic function than hypertensive controls, suggesting that hypertension may further impair the left ventricular diastolic abnormality in acromegaly. This is the first study to find evidence of subclinical cardiac diastolic dysfunction in acromegaly and it supports the suggestion that there is a specific disease of heart muscle in acromegaly. PMID- 2528982 TI - Plasma atrial natriuretic peptide in patients with acute myocardial infarction: effects of streptokinase. PMID- 2528981 TI - Balloon dilatation of a stenosed modified (polytetrafluoroethylene) Blalock Taussig shunt. AB - A 17 month old girl with tricuspid atresia, ventricular septal defect, subvalvar and valvar pulmonary stenosis, and increasing cyanosis had angiographic evidence of proximal stenosis of a right modified (5 mm diameter) Blalock-Taussig shunt. She underwent palliative balloon angioplasty with a 6 mm Schneider balloon catheter. Successful dilatation was achieved without complication. Four months later there was subjective clinical improvement with a rise in systemic arterial saturation. Repeat angiography showed patency of the shunt without restenosis or formation of an aneurysm. PMID- 2528983 TI - A comparison of the effects of human alpha calcitonin gene-related peptide and glyceryl trinitrate on regional blood velocity in man. AB - 1. Human alpha calcitonin gene-related peptide (h alpha CGRP) is a potent vasodilator which in doses up to 1.5 micrograms min-1 i.v. produces little or no fall in blood pressure in normal volunteers, but does cause a substantial tachycardia. 2. We have explored the underlying mechanism of this effect by comparing h alpha CGRP infused so as to maintain heart rate 25-30% above baseline with glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) in a dose sufficient to maintain a throbbing headache. 3. Ten normal volunteers were studied. In addition to blood pressure and heart rate, blood velocity and pulsatility index (PI) were determined from Doppler signals recorded from the internal and external carotid, renal and femoral arteries. 4. Following h alpha CGRP blood pressure (mean +/- s.d., mm Hg) did not significantly change: 120 +/- 10/70 +/- 7 before compared with 121 +/- 12/67 +/- 7 during h alpha CGRP infusion. Heart rate (mean +/- s.d., beats min-1) increased from 62 +/- 8 to 86 +/- 10 (P less than 0.0001). In contrast the blood pressure fell following GTN: 124 +/- 12/74 +/- 8 before compared with 111 +/- 13/62 +/- 6 following treatment (P less than 0.02). Heart rate did not change following GTN: 64 +/- 9 compared with 69 +/- 10. 5. GTN significantly increased PI (mean +/- s.d.) in the common carotid artery from 2.8 +/- 0.5 to 3.4 +/- 0.5 (P less than 0.003) while h alpha CGRP increased PI in the internal carotid from 1.3 +/- 0.2 to 2.1 +/- 0.4 (P less than 0.001).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2528984 TI - Pharmacokinetics of the thromboxane A2 receptor antagonist sulotroban (BM 13.177) in renal failure. AB - 1. Ten healthy volunteers and 26 hospital in-patients with endogenous creatinine clearances of 98 to 4 ml min-1 received an oral dose of 800 mg sulotroban (BM 13.177). The plasma and urine concentrations of sulotroban were measured by gas chromatography over 72 h and the pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated. 2. The AUC rose from 28.5 mg l-1 h in healthy volunteers to 631.4 mg l-1 h in preterminal renal failure (medians). The CLR decreased from 317.0 ml min-1 to 6.5 ml min-1 at the lowest renal capacity. 3. According to the AUC values, reduction of the dose is not necessary at CLCr greater than 50 ml min-1, a dose of 20-40% of normal is appropriate at CLCr of 20-50 ml min-1 At CLCr less than or equal to 20 ml min-1 the normal dose should be reduced to less than 20% of normal. 4. Vaginal spotting was noted in three female patients and a gastro-intestinal haemorrhage that did not require transfusion in one male patient. These may be associated with the action of sulotroban. PMID- 2528985 TI - Relationship between epidermal growth factor and dehydroepiandrosterone and its sulphate in breast cyst fluid. AB - Gross cystic breast disease is a common condition. Women with apocrine breast cysts may be at higher risk of breast cancer than women with cysts which are lined by flattened epithelium. Apocrine cysts have been shown to be associated with higher intracystic levels of dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate and intracystic sodium to potassium ratios of less than 3. In this study we measured the concentrations of epidermal growth factor, dehydroepiandrosterone and its sulphate in breast cyst fluid. The concentrations of all three analytes were significantly higher in cysts with intracystic Na+/K+ ratios of less than 3 than in cysts with electrolyte ratios of greater than or equal to 3 (P less than 0.001). The higher levels of EGF in cysts with low intracystic electrolyte ratios may provide an explanation of why women with apocrine cysts may be at greater risk of breast cancer. Positive correlations were obtained between concentrations of EGF and DHAS and between EGF and DHA, compatible with the view that intracystic EGF levels may be androgen-modulated. A positive correlation was also obtained between DHA and DHAS concentrations which supports the view that DHA in cyst fluid may be derived from the metabolism of DHAS in the breast cyst wall. PMID- 2528987 TI - Attitudes towards mild and severe mental handicap in Israel. AB - Attitudes towards mild and severe mental handicap were examined, as well as whether these attitudes are influenced by social class, sex, religiosity, and order of questionnaire presentation. A second concern was the effect on these attitudes of country of origin, namely Israeli Jews of Western, Yemenite, and Iraqi origin. A random sample of 360 adults completed the Jordan six-dimensional attitude scale on mental handicap. There was a more positive attitude to mild than to severe mental handicap. None of the remaining variables - including country of origin - affected the attitudes. PMID- 2528986 TI - Prevalence of back pain among fulltime United States workers. AB - A source of data on the health and working conditions of a probability sample of United States workers, the Quality of Employment Survey for 1972-3 (QES73), is investigated for the first time to determine which groups of workers are more or are less likely to report back pain. Estimated coefficients from a logistic regression are used to calculate odds ratios and confidence intervals for various groups. Few previous studies on back pain among United States workers control for as many potentially confounding variables as are considered in this study and few use data from a national probability sample of workers. The following independent variables are judged to be important positive correlates based on their estimated odds ratios and confidence intervals: farm, service, blue collar, and clerical work; low levels of schooling and income; jobs needing physical effort; age between and including 50 to 64; and smoking. Marital separation was found to be negatively correlated with back pain. Caution should be exercised in attempting to generalise these findings, since the back pain variable is based on respondents' subjective evaluations. Moreover, the variable does not distinguish between lower or upper back or neck pain, nor is information on the duration or frequency of pain available. PMID- 2528988 TI - Bidirectional transcription footprinting of DNA binding ligands. AB - An in vitro transcription assay has been developed to define the exact location of DNA binding ligands. The method employs two counterdirected Escherichia coli promoters separated by approximately 100 bp. Selective transcription from each promoter yields transcripts up to each ligand site. Nonsaturating levels of ligands result in fractional occupancy of ligand at each site, and hence a range of RNA transcript lengths. The bidirectional promoter system results in a transcription footprint which was derived from transcription from both promoters up to the 5' side of each occupied ligand site and defines the sequence specificity and binding site size of the DNA-bound ligand. The transcriptional footprint is precise to +/- 1 bp from the 5' and 3' ends of each binding site. Multiple ligand sites can be ranked in terms of relative fractional occupancy at each site, and the ranking is comparable from either transcription direction. The method was compared to classical DNase I footprinting with a series of DNA binding drugs [actinomycin D, echinomycin, bis(thiadaunomycin), mithramycin, nogalamycin, and an acridine-tripyrrole]. In all cases, specific binding sites were resolved more clearly by transcription footprinting than by DNase I footprinting. Because of the nature of the transcription assay, all occupied ligand sites were detected by this method, in contrast to DNase I footprinting where many sequences are not probed, and where ligand sites are often not accurately defined. PMID- 2528989 TI - Detergent modification of myosin function and structure in solution. AB - Rabbit skeletal muscle myosin and myosin subfragment 1 (S1) MgATPase activities were increased 2-3-fold by the addition of a variety of molecules that contained single straight saturated 12-16-carbon chains. The nonionic detergent dodecyl nonaoxyethylene ether (C12E9) increased the activity of S1 to 50% of maximum at a free C12E9 concentration of 27 +/- 9 microM. The activation was reversible and was not due to chemical modification of S1 amino acid side chains. The Vmax for actin-activated S1 MgATPase activity was increased 3-fold by C12E9. The apparent association constant for S1 binding to pure F-actin was reduced 3-fold by C12E9. The [C12E9] dependencies of the increase in S1 and acto-S1 MgATPase activities and of the decrease in acto-S1 binding were equal, within experimental uncertainty, suggesting that a single detergent-induced S1 conformational change is sufficient to explain the results. The stoichiometry of C12E9 bound to S1 in the S1-C12E9 complex was estimated, by the S1 concentration dependence of the C12E9 activation midpoint and by the light-scattering increase when S1 and detergent were mixed, to be 7 and 57 C12E9 molecules per S1, respectively. The results are discussed in relation to possible structural aspects of the mechanism of action for S1 and acto-S1 MgATPase activities. PMID- 2528990 TI - A common binding site for primary prostanoids in vascular smooth muscles: a definitive discrimination of the binding for thromboxane A2/prostaglandin H2 receptor agonist from its antagonist. AB - Differences in binding characteristics between agonists and antagonists for the thromboxane A2/prostaglandin H2 (TXA2/PGH2) receptor were examined in rat cultured vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC). Scatchard analysis indicated the existence of two binding sites for the TXA2/PGH2 agonist, whereas a single class of recognition sites for the receptor antagonists were observed with approximately the same maximum binding capacity (Bmax) as a high-affinity binding site of the agonist. Weak binding inhibition by approx. 100 nM of primary prostanoids (PGE1, PGF2 alpha and PGD2) was detected only with the TXA2/PGH2 agonist, and not with the antagonist. Primary prostanoids as well as TXA2/PGH2 agonists (U46619 and STA2) suppressed the [3H]PGF2 alpha and [3H]PGE1 binding with almost the same potency, whereas TXA2/PGH2 antagonists (S-145, SQ29,548 and ONO3708) did not. The Bmax value of the binding sites was roughly identical in PGF2 alpha, PGE1 and a low-affinity binding site of U46619. These results suggest the existence of two binding sites for TXA2/PGH2 in VSMC, i.e., a high-affinity binding site corresponding to that of the TXA2/PGH2 antagonists and a low affinity binding site in common with primary prostanoids. PMID- 2528991 TI - ATP-synthesis by proteoliposomes incorporating Rhodospirillum rubrum F0F1 as measured with firefly luciferase: dependence on delta psi and delta pH. AB - ATP-synthesis catalyzed by proteoliposomes incorporating Rhodospirillum rubrum F0F1 was driven by artificially applied electrochemical proton gradients. The time-course of ATP-synthesis was followed continuously by means of firefly luciferase. Correction methods were developed which allow one to calculate the initial rate of ATP-synthesis from the observed luminescence kinetics. The following results were obtained: (1) ATP-synthesis occurred above a threshold delta mu H+ of 90 mV; this threshold is not imposed by the activation requirement of the enzyme; (2) delta psi and delta pH appear to be equivalent as driving forces for ATP-synthesis if allowance is made for the effect of the electrical capacitance of the liposome membrane on the distribution of K+ at equilibrium; and (3) the highest rate observed so far is 200 mol ATP per mol F0F1 per s. PMID- 2528992 TI - Evidence for an essential histidine residue in the Neurospora crassa plasma membrane H+-ATPase. AB - The Neurospora crassa plasma membrane H+-ATPase is rapidly inactivated in the presence of diethyl pyrocarbonate (DEP). The reaction is pseudo-first-order showing time- and concentration-dependent inactivation with a second-order rate constant of 385-420 M-1.min-1 at pH 6.9 and 25 degrees C. The difference spectrum of the native and modified enzyme has a maximum near 240 nm, characteristic of N carbethoxyhistidine. No change in the absorbance of the inhibited ATPase at 278 nm or in the number of modifiable sulfhydryl groups is observed, indicating that the inhibition is not due to tyrosine or cysteine modification, and the inhibition is irreversible, ruling out serine residues. Furthermore, pretreatment of the ATPase with pyridoxal phosphate/NaBH4 under the conditions of the DEP treatment does not inhibit the ATPase and does not alter the DEP inhibition kinetics, indicating that the inactivation by DEP is not due to amino group modification. The pH dependence of the inactivation reaction indicates that the essential residue has a pKa near 7.5, and the activity lost as a result of H+ ATPase modification by DEP is partially recovered after hydroxylamine treatment at 4 degrees C. Taken together, these results strongly indicate that the inactivation of the H+-ATPase by DEP involves histidine modification. Analyses of the inhibition kinetics and the stoichiometry of modification indicate that among eight histidines modified per enzyme molecule, only one is essential for H+ ATPase activity. Finally, ADP protects against inactivation by DEP, indicating that the essential residue modified may be located at or near the nucleotide binding site. PMID- 2528993 TI - Abnormalities in erythrocyte membrane band 3 in chronic myelogenous leukemia. AB - The anion transport activities of erythrocytes from patients with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) and normal donors were comparable. In CML erythrocytes, significant reduction in the number of ankyrin-binding sites, present in the cytoplasmic domain of band 3, may lead to partial loss of cytoskeletal anchorage to the bilayer and account for their increased Con-A agglutinability and heat-sensitivity (Basu, J., Kundu, M., Rakshit, M.M. and Chakrabarti, P. (1988) Biochim. Biophys. Acta 945, 121-126). PMID- 2528994 TI - [Identification of myosin-like proteins included in chromatin]. AB - A myosin-like protein was purified 40-fold from rat liver chromatin (as determined by the K+-EDTA-ATPase activity equal to 0.013 and 0.442 M PPi/mg.min for chromatin and purified protein, respectively). Electrophoresis performed under non-denaturating conditions revealed that the overall ATPase activity of the sample is associated with one component whose migration is very similar to that of skeletal muscle myosin. The myosin components isolated from the nuclei and cytoplasm of rat cardiac muscle differ by their electrophoretic mobilities; those from nuclei of different tissues, i.e., liver and heart, have similar mobilities. PMID- 2528995 TI - [Assessment of the role of endogenous regulators in the activation of Ca-ATPase in erythrocyte membranes]. AB - The contribution of calmodulin and protein kinases A or C to the activation of membrane Ca-ATPase was studied on saponin-permeabilized rat erythrocytes. In the presence of all endogenous regulators, the dependence of the Ca-ATPase activity of Ca2+ concentration was described by a bell-shaped curve with a maximum at 2-5 microM Ca2+; K0.5 = 0.43 microM Ca2+. Washing of erythrocyte membranes with 5-10 microM Ca2+ maintained up to 75% of the ATPase activity, while washing with EGTA (2 mM) decreased the activity, on the average, 5-fold, and increased K0.5 up to 0.54-0.6 microM Ca2+. An addition of an EGTA extract to washed membranes restored up to 75% of the original ATPase activity, while calmodulin restored about 40% of the original Ca-ATPase activity and decreased K0.5 to 0.23-0.3 microM Ca2+. The calmodulin inhibitor R24571 failed to alter the Ca-ATPase activity in permeabilized erythrocytes but slightly diminished it in reconstituted membranes. The protein kinase C inhibitors H7 and polymyxin increased the Ca-ATPase activity in permeabilized red cells and suppressed it in reconstituted membranes. The data obtained suggest that in native red cell membranes Ca-ATPase is activated by regulator(s) dependent on Ca2+ and protein kinase which are other than calmodulin. PMID- 2528996 TI - [An analysis of the factor structure of the histochemical phenotype of normal muscle fiber and muscle fiber during a change in the functional load]. AB - Using dispersive and factor analyses of the serial sections of the skeletal muscle tissue it has been shown that the activity of myosin Ca-ATPase is the most essential parameter in the definition of the phenotype of skeletal muscle fiber according to its functional and metabolic characteristics. The stability of this parameter during different functional loadings permits to recommend it as the major one in the definition of the fiber phenotype. PMID- 2528997 TI - Plasma beta-endorphin levels in the umbilical cord blood of preterm human neonates. AB - Maternal venous (MV) and neonatal umbilical venous (UV) and umbilical arterial (UA) plasma beta-endorphin concentrations were measured at birth in two groups of patients undergoing cesarean section (CS). Patients in group 1 carried a term gestation (n = 12, birth weight 3,640 +/- 150 g, 1 SEM). Patients in group 2 (n = 12) carried a preterm gestation (birth weight 1,956 +/- 150 g). In the term neonate the UV and UA plasma beta-endorphin were 11.5 +/- 4 and 13.5 +/- 4 picomoles/liter, respectively. In the preterm neonate the UV and UA values were 23.6 +/- 4 and 23.5 +/- 5 picomoles/liter, respectively. Both values in the preterm neonate were significantly greater than the corresponding value in the term neonate (p less than 0.05). The MV plasma beta-endorphin did not significantly differ among the two groups. Data suggest that in preterm neonates increased plasma beta-endorphin levels occur at the time of birth. PMID- 2528998 TI - Lymphocyte subpopulations in depressed elderly women. AB - Dexamethasone Suppression Tests (DST) and measurement of lymphocyte subpopulations were conducted in 21 medically healthy elderly women with major depressive disorder and 77 healthy elderly women volunteers. Depressed women revealed significantly reduced absolute lymphocytes (p less than 0.01), T cells (p less than 0.01), and T helper cells (p less than 0.02) compared to normal elderly women. Of the depressed women, 50% had positive DSTs (postdexamethasone cortisols greater than 5 micrograms/dl) compared to 5.4% of the normal women (p less than 0.0001). Within the depressed group, patients with positive DSTs had significantly reduced absolute lymphocytes (p less than 0.05) and T helper cells (p less than 0.025) compared with depressed women who had normal DSTs. Further, a significant negative correlation was found between postdexamethasone cortisols (at both 4:00 and 11:00 PM) and absolute lymphocyte count and T helper cells. These data suggest that the hypercortisolemia seen in some patients with major depressive disorder is sufficient to alter leukocyte distribution in the peripheral circulation, particularly that of the T helper cell subset. The association between cortisol and lymphopenia appears to be more pronounced in an elderly population than in younger depressed patients. PMID- 2528999 TI - Behavioral biochemical and neuroendocrine concomitants of lactate-induced panic anxiety. AB - In a single-blind study using sodium lactate infusions to provoke panic attacks, 11 of 15 patients with panic disorder panicked with lactate. None of the 15 control subjects panicked during lactate administration. Before receiving lactate, higher preinfusion anxiety levels were present in the patient group as compared to controls. Preinfusion Acute Panic Inventory (API) scores were significantly higher in patients who panicked compared to nonpanicking patients. In addition, patients who panicked during lactate infusion showed a higher mean plasma MHPG level at baseline. During lactate infusion, however, no increase in plasma MHPG was seen in patients who panicked, nor in nonpanickers and controls. Several other biochemical and hormonal variables were measured. No single biochemical or neuroendocrine variable was found to correlate with lactate induced panic attacks. It is argued that the baseline arousal level of patients with panic disorder may be increased, which renders these patients more vulnerable to panic attacks. PMID- 2529000 TI - Influence of D-Trp-6-LH-RH on the survival time in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer. AB - Carcinoma of the exocrine pancreas seems to be sex-hormone sensitive. Administration of agonistic analogs of luteinizing hormone--releasing hormone (LH RH) creates a state of sex-hormone deficiency. Therapy with D-Trp-6-LH-RH was evaluated in 17 patients with unresectable and biopsy-proven adenocarcinoma of the pancreas (stage IV). Nine patients were male and 8 female, and the median age at diagnosis was 60 years. The majority of patients underwent a gastro-intestinal and biliary bypass. The therapy with D-Trp-6-LH-RH was started 3-31 days after bypass surgery. The analog was given at the dose of 1 mg/day subcutaneously for the first 7 days. Subsequently, the dose was reduced to 100 micrograms/day. One month after the start of the therapy the gonadotropin levels were in subnormal range. This therapy led to clinical improvement, better quality of life and an increase in survival time. The median survival time for all the groups was 7.2 months (men 7.4 months and women 6.9 months). LH-RH agonists appear to decrease pancreatic cancer growth by eliminating the stimulatory effect of sex steroids, and by direct effects on tumors. Further improvement in the clinical response in patients with inoperable pancreatic carcinoma might be possibly obtained by the combination of LH--RH agonists with modern somatostatin analogs. PMID- 2529001 TI - [Myocardial infarct in rats: right ventricular hypertrophy as a criterion of postinfarct left ventricular heart failure]. AB - The course of experimental myocardial infarction was accompanied by the growth response of the right ventricle (RV) in some rats. Rats with RV hypertrophy unlike ones without RV hypertrophy had depressed cardiac contraction force and velocity at rest as well as a minimal capacity to respond to functional stress. Dibunol (butylhydroxytoluene, 30 mg/kg) prevented the depression of cardiac contractility and RV growth. RV hypertrophy in the rats following left coronary artery ligation is the consequence of the left ventricle pump failure and resultant pulmonary hypertension. RV hypertrophy may be proposed as an index of postinfarct heart failure and its reduction as an index of the cardioprotective effect of various pharmacological interventions. PMID- 2529002 TI - [Adaptive changes in sections of the myocardium of experimental animals undergoing physical loading of a static nature]. AB - Adaptation of the parts of myocardium of 18 white rats to the physical static loadings during two months have been studied by means of morphometric and histological methods. Physical loadings cause hyperfunction and hypertrophy of all chambers of the heart with a predominant hypertrophy of the right ventricle, right auricle and dilatation of these cavities. The heterogeneous changes of the myocardium were found on the organic level. PMID- 2529003 TI - Inhibition of tissue plasminogen activator activity by aspirin in vivo and its relationship to levels of tissue plasminogen activator inhibitor antigen, plasminogen activator and their complexes. AB - The observation that aspirin inhibits the increment in tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) activity induced by venous occlusion of the forearm became controversial with the publication of several nonconfirmatory studies. The current study was performed to confirm the original observation and determine the mechanism by which aspirin suppresses the incremental t-PA activity induced by venous occlusion. Aspirin (650 mg/d X 2) caused no change in resting levels of t PA antigen (t-PA:Ag) or activity, plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 antigen (PAI 1:Ag), or activity or t-PA-PAI-1 complexes. In contrast, aspirin reduced the increments induced by venous occlusion as follows: t-PA:Ag by 45% (P = .001); t PA activity (euglobulin lysis time, ELT) by 43% (P = .006); and t-PA activity (alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor-plasmin complexes, PIPC) by 41% (P = .003). The inhibition of incremental t-PA activity measured as ELT or PIPC was linearly correlated with the inhibition of incremental t-PA:Ag (respectively, r = .75, P less than .02; r = .67, P less than .05). Aspirin had no effect on the increment in PAI-1:Ag induced by venous occlusion, but similar to the effect on t-PA:Ag, aspirin induced a 51% inhibition of the increment in t-PA-PAI-1 complex formation. Aspirin did not alter the ability of alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor to bind plasmin, nor the ability of plasma to support the fibrin-catalyzed generation of plasmin by t-PA, nor the subsequent formation of PIPC. Aspirin inhibits the t-PA activity induced by venous occlusion primarily by inhibiting the release of t-PA antigen. PMID- 2529004 TI - Bone marrow transplantation for children with severe aplastic anemia: use of donors other than HLA-identical siblings. AB - Eighty-five percent of untransfused and 70% of transfused patients with severe aplastic anemia (SAA) are cured with bone marrow transplants from histocompatible sibling donors. Use of partially matched family donors or unrelated donors has been relatively unsuccessful because of high incidences of graft rejection and graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). Thirteen children with SAA received marrow grafts from alternative donors (sibling 4, parent 5, unrelated 4). The first three patients were pretreated with cyclophosphamide (CYCLO) +/- irradiation and received methotrexate for GVHD prophylaxis. Subsequent children were pretreated with CYCLO + high-dose cytosine arabinoside + methylprednisolone + total body irradiation, had monoclonal antibody T-cell depletion of the donor marrow, and received cyclosporine for GVHD prophylaxis. Three heavily transfused patients with haploidentical-related donors failed to engraft and died. All 10 patients with more closely matched donors engrafted. Acute GVHD was grade II in only one patient (non-T-depleted); this patient is the only one with severe chronic GVHD. Three engrafted patients died (Pneumocystis pneumonia, systemic parainfluenza, venocclusive disease). Seven children are alive 33+ to 2,692+ days. Donors for the survivors were siblings 3, parent 1, unrelated 3. These data suggest that bone marrow transplantation from closely matched donors other than histocompatible siblings can be effective therapy for SAA if an intensive conditioning regimen is used. These results must be confirmed with larger numbers and longer follow-up. PMID- 2529005 TI - Legal and ethical issues in the use of antiandrogens in treating sex offenders. AB - Antiandrogen treatment of sexual offenders raises serious legal and ethical considerations in both the medical profession and in the courts. Discussion is offered on the use of antiandrogens in both an involuntary and voluntary context. The potential negative impact of this treatment modality on such constitutional issues as privacy interests, right to procreative freedom, freedom of speech and communication, and freedom from cruel and unusual punishment is explored and notable, germane court cases are presented. The need for clear ethical guidelines for the administration of this treatment is stressed. PMID- 2529006 TI - The paraphilias and Depo-Provera: some medical, ethical and legal considerations. AB - Paraphilic disorders are Axis I psychiatric afflictions. They are not acquired by volitional decision, but are manifested by the association of erotic arousal with unacceptable behavior or stimulae (e.g., children). Because paraphilic behavior occurs in the service of a biological drive, use of medication to suppress sexual appetite may constitute an adjunct in treatment. Medroxyprogesterone can be used to decrease unacceptable erotic urges and fantasies, with the intent of increasing self-control. Such treatment should not be forced upon an unwilling person. Conversely, persons should not be denied access to treatment by laws which deter seeking help, or because of incarceration, parole, or probation. PMID- 2529007 TI - Interleukin-1 and hematopoiesis. AB - Interleukin-1 alpha and interleukin-1 beta are 17.5 kDa peptides which exert a wide variety of biological activities. Both forms of interleukin bind to a common 60-70 kDa receptor expressed by most somatic cells. One major effect of interleukin-1 is to induce the expression of other genes, including genes for other interleukins (IL-6), colony stimulating factors (GM-CSF and G-CSF) and growth factors (PDGFA) and adhesion proteins (ELAM-1, ICAM-1). In vitro, cells of the hematopoietic stroma including thymic epithelium, endothelial cells, fibroblasts, T-lymphocytes, and macrophages, are all capable of responding to interleukin-1 by expressing most of these IL-1 inducible genes. Accordingly, because interleukin-1 has no direct effect on hematopoietic progenitor cells, its major effect on hematopoiesis is to regulate the expression of hematopoietic growth factor genes by other cells. The mechanism by which interleukin-1 induces gene expression is to first induce mRNA accumulation which accounts for an increase in translation of the mRNA. The accumulation of RNA, interestingly, does not result from increased transcription of these genes but by the stabilization of the mRNA. Ordinarily, the hematopoietic growth factor gene transcripts have a very short half-life but in an interleukin-1 induced cell, the half-life of these transcripts is markedly prolonged (greater than 24 h). This particular effect of IL-1 on transcript stability likely accounts for virtually all of the hematopoietic activities of interleukin-1 including: (1) induction of growth factors; (2) synergy with other factors; (3) priming; and (4) auto-induction. Three clinical models of hematopoiesis are presented which suggest that the interleukin-1 CSF network is operative in vivo. The ability of interleukin-1 to induce the expression of hematopoietic growth factor genes as well as genes whose products regulate cellular function and traffic suggest that interleukin-1 is an essential molecular master switch for a number of cellular responses occurring in organisms facing the vicissitudes of their environment. PMID- 2529008 TI - Occupational risks of glutaraldehyde. PMID- 2529009 TI - Managing gynaecological emergencies with laparoscopy. AB - A consecutive series of 49 women (50 procedures), whose conditions were haemodynamically stable, presenting with acute lower abdominal pain, pelvic tenderness, and either a urine concentration of greater than 50 U/l beta human chorionic gonadotrophin or a pelvic mass shown by ultrasonography were treated with operative laparoscopy under video monitoring (videopelviscopy) as an alternative to laparotomy. Ectopic pregnancy, ovarian and non-ovarian cysts, pelvic adhesions, endometriosis, and fibroids were found, for which salpingotomy, salpingectomy and salpingo-oophorectomy, cystectomy, adhesiolysis, thermocoagulation, and myomectomy were carried out by laparoscopy. In one patient pelviscopy was repeated because of persistent tubal pregnancy after the fimbria was expressed. Laparotomies were carried out on three patients because treatment was not possible by laparoscopy and on a further patient two days after adhesiolysis had been attempted. These were the only serious complications. For the 46 cases (45 patients) in which operative laparoscopy was successful the mean stay in hospital was 1.9 days after operation, and this group of patients returned to normal activities and to work after an average of 2.3 and 2.6 weeks respectively. Most gynaecological emergencies that are managed by laparotomy can be treated by laparoscopy and benefit both patients and the health service. PMID- 2529010 TI - Beta-endorphin and electroconvulsive shock alter the retrieval of two avoidance tasks when given after the first, but not the second, training session. AB - 1. Rats were submitted to three consecutive sessions, one session per day, of two way active avoidance or of step-down inhibitory avoidance, and received 1 microgram/kg beta-endorphin intraperitoneally or an electroconvulsive shock immediately after the first or after the second training session. 2. Administration of either treatment after the first session caused a reduction of performance in the second session in both tasks. There was no impairment of performance in the third session. 3. Administration of either treatment after the second session did not affect performance during the third session. 4. Therefore the effect of beta-endorphin and of electroconvulsive shock on active and inhibitory avoidance performance was expressed only when treatments were administered after the first, i.e., novel, training experience. We suggest this effect is on mechanisms acting on retrieval, since the retention performances of all groups for the third session were identical. PMID- 2529011 TI - The effects of imminent minor surgery on the cognitive processing of health and interpersonal threat words. AB - Women in hospital for a laparoscopy and control subjects were examined on a version of the Stroop test in which the distracting effect of word content on speed of colour naming was examined. Both laparoscopy patients and controls were slowed by words related to interpersonal threat but only the laparoscopy patients were slowed by words that related to health threats. This suggests that a specific temporary threat can alter attentional biases. PMID- 2529012 TI - Ultrasound and laparoscopy in surgery. PMID- 2529013 TI - The effect of atrial natriuretic peptide on human isolated resistance arteries. AB - 1. The action of (1-28) alpha-human atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) was studied on human isolated resistance arteries. 2. Renal, skeletal muscle, omental and subcutaneous resistance arteries were taken from tissue removed at surgery and isometric tension responses were measured with a myograph. 3. ANP (10(-9)-10(-6) M) relaxed precontracted segments of renal and skeletal muscle arteries in a concentration-dependent manner. ANP failed to relax isolated omental or subcutaneous arteries. 4. The effect of ANP on human isolated resistance arteries varies depending on the site of origin of the artery. PMID- 2529014 TI - A purified lipocortin shares the anti-inflammatory effect of glucocorticosteroids in vivo in mice. AB - 1. The injection of a suspension of a polyacrylamide gel (bio gel) into the dorsal subcutaneous area of mice induced an inflammatory reaction and the migration of neutrophils towards the inflamed site. 2. The intravenous administration of anti-inflammatory drugs (dexamethasone, indomethacin and lysine acetylsalicylate) to polyacrylamide gel-treated mice inhibited the accumulation of neutrophils in the inflamed site. 3. A similar administration of a 36K mouse lipocortin, induced a strong dose-dependent inhibition of neutrophil accumulation in the inflamed site. 4. Dexamethasone and lipocortin inhibited the production of eicosanoids, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and leukotriene B4 (LTB4) in the inflamed site of polyacrylamide gel-treated mice. 5. Lipocortin impaired both phospholipase A2 (PLA2) activity and chemotaxis of isolated inflammatory neutrophils. 6. The present studies show an in vivo anti-inflammatory effect of lipocortin similar to that of glucocorticosteroids. In agreement with recent data on the extracellular effects of various lipocortins, these results might implicate lipocortin(s) in the anti-inflammatory effects of glucocorticosteroids. PMID- 2529015 TI - Sympathetic vascular control of the pig nasal mucosa: adrenoceptor mechanisms in blood flow and volume control. AB - 1. The adrenoceptor mechanisms influencing the total blood flow, volume and superficial blood flow in the nasal mucosa of pigs anaesthetized with pentobarbitone have been characterized by use of various agonists and antagonists. 2. Local intra-arterial bolus injection of the selective alpha 1 agonist phenylephrine, the selective alpha 2-agonist UK 14.304, the mixed alpha 1/alpha 2-agonist oxymetazoline and the mixed alpha/beta-agonists noradrenaline (NA) and adrenaline induced dosed-related reduction of nasal arterial blood flow (BF), nasal mucosal volume (V, reflecting capacitance vessel function) and the laser Doppler flowmetry signal (LDF, reflecting superficial movement of blood cells). The rank order of alpha-agonist potency regarding BF reduction was UK 14.304 greater than oxymetazoline greater than phenylephrine = adrenaline. For the volume response the potency order was UK 14.304 greater than oxymetazoline = NA = adrenaline greater than phenylephrine while for the reduction of the LDF signal the potency was UK 14.304 = NA = adrenaline greater than oxymetazoline greater than phenylephrine. The selective beta 2-agonist terbutaline caused dose dependent increase of BF whereas only a small augmentation of the V was obtained upon the highest dose (40 nmol) while no modification of the LDF signal was observed. 3. After pretreatment with the selective alpha 1-antagonist prazosin, the response to phenylephrine was abolished while the selective alpha 2 antagonist idazoxan attenuated the effect of UK 14.304. After pretreatment with alpha-antagonists, both NA and adrenaline caused biphasic effects with constriction followed by vasodilatation for BF, but not for V or LDF. This vasodilatation was blocked by the beta-antagonist propranolol. 4. The reduction in nasal BF and V upon sympathetic nerve stimulation was attenuated both by prazosin and idazoxan. Propranolol enhanced the remaining reduction of BF but not of V in the presence of alpha-antagonists. 5. It is concluded that alpha 2 adrenoceptor mechanisms in the pig nasal mucosa are dominating for the BF, V and LDF responses to exogenous agonists. alpha 1-Adrenoceptors also seem to be involved in the sympathetic control of BF, V and LDF. Activation of beta 2 receptors increases mainly BF and does not influence the LDF signal. PMID- 2529016 TI - The binding of (+)-isradipine by guinea-pig intact atria. AB - 1. The accumulation of [3H]-(+)-isradipine (PN 200-110) was measured in quiescent guinea-pig left atria with normal (K+ 2.7 mM) or lowered (K+ 40 mM) membrane potential. 2. Under control conditions (2.7 mM K+) a high affinity binding of (+) isradipine could not be detected. If, however, the atria were partially depolarized to about -30 mV by 40 mM K+, high affinity binding became evident displaying a dissociation constant of 4.2 x 10(-11) M and a capacity of 9.7 nmol kg-1 wet wt. 3. The depolarization-induced binding was reversible upon repolarization of the atria although isradipine was still present in the medium. This indicates that the high affinity binding sites disappear as soon as the cell membranes become polarized. 4. Isradipine belongs to the less hydrophobic dihydropyridines, but nevertheless the unsaturable binding led to an accumulation of about 84 fold. At a concentration of 2 x 10(-8) M (+)-isradipine, which reduces the contractile force by 50%, the cellular concentration will rise to more than 10(-6) M. PMID- 2529018 TI - Pathogenesis of type I (insulin-dependent) diabetes: possible mechanisms of autoimmune damage. AB - By definition, autoimmunity is a circumvention of self-tolerance. Considering the complex network of control mechanisms which initiate and regulate immune responses to foreign agents and maintain the natural state of self-tolerance, autoimmunity may result from a weakening of this delicate equilibrium at various levels. Several hypotheses have therefore been put forward to explain the 'active' immunization process against self-constituents which are normally tolerated. PMID- 2529017 TI - Action of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) on dog cerebral arteries: evidence that neurogenic relaxation is not mediated by release of ANP. AB - 1. Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) (10(-9) to 10(-8) M) produced a concentration related relaxation in helical strips of dog cerebral arteries partially contracted with prostaglandin F2 alpha. The relaxation was not affected by treatment with ouabain, quinidine, oxyhaemoglobin, methylene blue, or removal of endothelium. 2. Relaxations induced by nicotine or transmural electrical stimulation were not reduced in arteries in which tachyphylaxis to ANP had developed. 3. In arteries exposed to Ca2+-free media under severe hypoxia, contractions due to prostaglandin F2 alpha and Ca2+ were attenuated by treatment with ANP, whereas the reoxygenation-induced contraction was unaffected. 4. The results suggest that ANP does not mediate neurogenic relaxation of dog cerebral arteries. The ANP-induced relaxation is not associated with activation of the sodium pump but is due to an inhibitory action on the release and influx of Ca2+, probably as a result of stimulation of guanylate cyclase. PMID- 2529019 TI - Electrophysiological analysis of cultured fetal mouse dorsal root ganglion neurons transgenic for human superoxide dismutase-1, a gene in the Down syndrome region of chromosome 21. AB - Our recent whole cell patch-pipette studies have shown that human trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) cultured fetal dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons have accelerated rates of action potential depolarization and repolarization, with reduced spike duration, compared to control neurons. Similar observations were made using DRG neurons from the trisomy 16 mouse, an animal model of trisomy 21. In this study we have used transgenic mice in order to investigate the relationship between excess gene dosage and neurophysiological abnormalities. DRG neurons which possessed additional copies of the gene for human superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD), a gene from the Down syndrome region of chromosome 21, were compared to normal neurons. No electrophysiological differences were found between the two groups of neurons, indicating that increased dosage of the SOD gene alone is not causal to action potential dysfunction found in trisomy 21 and trisomy 16 neurons. PMID- 2529020 TI - Effect of aging on concentrations of D2-receptor-containing neurons in the rat striatum. AB - Striatal D2 dopamine receptor concentrations were shown to decrease 30-35% during the lifespan of Wistar rats as assessed both radiochemically and autoradiographically. Binding densities and degree of age-change varied within the striatum; the latter ranging from 17 to 44% in 4 different regions. Overall neuronal loss during aging was 19%, and also varied considerably within the different striatal regions. Thus, it appears that neuronal loss may account for up to roughly half of the striatal D2 receptor loss during aging. PMID- 2529022 TI - Localization of hematoporphyrin. Derivative to human colorectal cancer. AB - This study documents the affinity of hematoporphyrin derivative (HpD) for human colorectal cancer by analysis of surface fluorescence. Ten patients undergoing elective surgery for primary colorectal cancer received intravenous HpD (2-5 mg/kg) either 3 or 72 hours preoperatively. Fluorescent photographs were taken of freshly resected specimens and analyzed using a computerized videodensitometric technique. This technique subtracted contaminating non-HpD fluorescence and facilitated estimation of HpD tissue levels. The HpD-specific fluorescence localized to tumors in all cases, and the mean HpD concentration was six-fold greater in malignant tissue than in surrounding normal mucosa (0.6 microgram/g versus 0.1 microgram/g, P less than 0.001). The authors conclude that HpD preferentially localizes to human colorectal cancer and this is relevant to the photodetection and phototherapy of colorectal neoplasia. PMID- 2529021 TI - Coronary revascularization after thrombolytic therapy for myocardial infarction: what caseloads could Canadian centres face? AB - A simple model was developed to project the potential effect of intravenous thrombolytic therapy on the caseloads of revascularization early after acute myocardial infarction. Published data were used to estimate the proportion of infarct patients eligible for thrombolytic treatment and their subsequent rates of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) or coronary artery bypass surgery (CABS) within 2 weeks and up to 6 to 12 weeks after treatment. Toronto regional caseload data were obtained from registries and hospital discharge records. Our primary projections, based only on coronary angiography for evidence of spontaneous or exercise-induced ischemia, suggest a 165% increase in the post-thrombolysis use of PTCA within 2 weeks of infarction and even greater increases 6 to 12 weeks after infarction. Adding in selective use of salvage PTCA for some patients with persisting pain despite thrombolysis increases the overall PTCA caseload within 2 weeks by 242%. Data on the current caseload of post-thrombolysis CABS are unavailable. However, our projected caseload for the 30% of infarct patients treated with thrombolytic drugs equals or exceeds the current number of CABS procedures performed on all infarct patients within a month of the event. All these projections are conservative, in that they consider neither procedures 3 to 12 months after infarction nor restenosis after PTCA. This analysis illustrates that current approaches to revascularization after thrombolytic therapy could have a substantial effect on PTCA and CABS caseloads. Further studies with improved caseload data are needed to validate these preliminary projections. PMID- 2529023 TI - Increased plasma concentration of atrial natriuretic factor with squamous cell carcinoma invasion of the right and left atria of the heart. AB - Atrial natriuretic factor is a new peptide hormone synthesized in the heart which has potent natriuretic, diuretic, and vasodilatory properties. A 47-year-old man with squamous cell carcinoma of the lung resected 6 months previously presented with syncope secondary to hypotension and a low serum sodium. He was evaluated to determine if atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) might be the etiology of this clinical picture. His plasma concentration of atrial natriuretic factor was increased three-fold over that of 70 normotensive person. Further evaluation revealed metastatic lesions in the right and left cardiac atria with the mass on the left occluding 75% of the left atrial chamber. The mass effect in the atria increasing atrial stretch and atrial pressure one would expect was the main contributor to the increased ANF level. The contribution of direct tumor invasion into the atria and/or production of atrial natriuretic factor by the tumor itself to produce this elevated plasma level of atrial natriuretic factor could not be determined, but this markedly elevated level of atrial natriuretic factor does appear to be the etiology of this patient's clinical picture. PMID- 2529024 TI - The common acute lymphoblastic leukemia antigen (neutral endopeptidase-3.4.24.11) gene is located on human chromosome 3. AB - We have previously isolated a cDNA clone encoding the common acute lymphoblastic leukemia antigen (CALLA) from a normal human kidney library. Analysis of the amino acid sequence deduced from nucleotide sequencing of this cDNA established that CALLA is identical to the recently cloned human neutral endopeptidase (NEP; E.C. 3.4.24.11). Southern blot analysis of SacI fragments of DNA from human rodent somatic cell hybrids using a 1.6-kb CALLA cDNA probe showed that the CALLA NEP gene is located on human chromosome 3. PMID- 2529025 TI - High incidence of coamplification of hst-1 and int-2 genes in human esophageal carcinomas. AB - We analyzed the alteration of the hst-1 and int-2 genes in 36 cases of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, 42 cases of gastric adenocarcinoma, and 52 cases of colorectal adenocarcinoma. Coamplification of the hst-1 and int-2 genes was observed in 19 of 36 esophageal carcinomas (52%), 16 of 34 primary tumor tissues (47%), and 10 of 10 metastatic tumors (100%). The degree of amplification ranged from 4- to 8-fold. The incidence of hst-1 and int-2 gene coamplification was significantly higher in male patients than that in female patients (P less than 0.05). The coamplification of the hst-1 and int-2 genes had a tendency to correlate with clinical stage. The progesterone receptor gene, which is mapped to chromosome 11 at band q21-23, was not amplified in these esophageal carcinomas. Coamplification of the hst-1 and int-2 gene does not seem to imply increased numbers of chromosome 11, and the hst-1 and int-2 genes appear to be in same amplification unit on chromosome 11 at band q13. No coamplification of the hst-1 and int-2 genes was detected in gastric carcinomas and colorectal carcinomas. These results suggest that amplification of chromosomal locus of the hst-1 and int-2 genes might participate in carcinogenesis, in progression, and particularly in metastasis of esophageal carcinomas. PMID- 2529026 TI - Mechanism of selective killing by dilinoleoylglycerol of cells transformed by the E1A gene of adenovirus type 12. AB - Rat 3Y1 fibroblasts transformed by the E1A gene of adenovirus type 12 (E1A-3Y1 cells) are highly sensitive to the cell-killing effect of 1,3-dilinoleoylglycerol (DLG) administered in a culture medium, whereas the parental 3Y1 cells are less sensitive (H. Shimura et al., Cancer Res., 48: 578-583, 1988). The selective cytotoxicity of DLG to E1A-3Y1 cells was markedly reduced by the simultaneous administration of nonspecific antioxidants such as vitamin E, butylated hydroxytoluene, and ascorbic acid. Specific scavengers for oxygen radicals had no effect. Lipoxygenase inhibitors (nordihydroguaiaretic acid, esculetin, and baicalein) reduced the DLG-mediated selective cytotoxicity, whereas cyclooxygenase inhibitors (acetylsalicylic acid and indomethacin) showed no effect. The intracellular and extracellular contents of the products from lipid peroxidation as measured by the thiobarbituric acid test were significantly greater in E1A-3Y1 cells than in the parental 3Y1 cells. In comparison with DLG, linoleic acid and monolinoleoylglycerol were equally toxic to E1A-3Y1 and parental 3Y1, and trilinoleoylglycerol was weakly toxic to both types of cells. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that numerous holes about 0.2 micron in diameter were scattered all over the surface of the E1A-3Y1 cells after treating the cultures with DLG. These results suggest that; (a) the DLG-mediated cytotoxicity to the E1A-transformed cells is attributable to lipid peroxidation; (b) the structural property of DLG is essential to the E1A specificity of cytotoxicity; and finally (c) the destruction of the cell membrane is the basis of cytotoxicity of DLG. PMID- 2529027 TI - Enhancement of trimetrexate cytotoxicity in vitro and in vivo by carboxypeptidase G2. AB - Carboxypeptidase G2 (CPG2), an enzyme produced by Pseudomonas strain RS-16, hydrolyzes the glutamate residue from methotrexate and other folates. The possibility of enhancing trimetrexate cytotoxicity by CPG2 induced folate depletion was investigated in vitro in a human leukemia cell line, CCRF-CEM, and in three sublines of these cells each with a different methotrexate resistance phenotype. The cytotoxic effect in vitro was detected using a colorimetric assay with a tetrazolium salt, 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide. Dose-effect relationships of drugs alone and in combination were analyzed by the median effect principle and by the combination indices for quantitation of synergy or antagonism with the aid of a computer program. Trimetrexate alone was cytotoxic against the parent and all the resistant cell lines with the drug concentrations required to decrease the cell count to 50% of control in the nanomolar range (1.4, 1.6, 1.5, and 0.7 nM in CCRF-CEM, CCRF CEM/E, CCRF-CEM/P, and CCRF-CEM/T, respectively) following 5 days of exposure. The concentration of CPG2 required to decrease the cell count to 50% control for these cell lines was 3.5, 2.6, 26.6, and 7.9 x 10(-5) units/ml for CCRF-CEM, CCRF CEM/E, CCRF-CEM/P, and CCRF-CEM/T, respectively. A synergistic cytotoxic effect of trimetrexate after simultaneous continuous exposure with CPG2 was observed with CCRF-CEM cells and with the three resistant cell lines. This drug combination given to BALB/c x DBA/2 F1 mice bearing L1210 cells also produced synergy over a narrow range of drug doses. The activity of this combination in both methotrexate sensitive and methotrexate resistant cell lines indicates that clinical trials of this combination should be undertaken. PMID- 2529028 TI - Plasma retinol level reduction by the synthetic retinoid fenretinide: a one year follow-up study of breast cancer patients. AB - Fenretinide (HPR) is a synthetic retinoid which has been shown to cause a reduction in the incidence of carcinogen-induced epithelial tumors in experimental animals, and it has been chosen to be tested as a chemopreventive agent in humans. A study on plasma concentrations of HPR, of its metabolite N-(4 methoxyphenyl)retinamide (MPR), and on its effects on endogenous retinol was performed in groups of 14 to 18 breast cancer patients who received p.o. daily doses of placebo or 100, 200, and 300 mg of HPR for 6 mo and subsequently 200 mg for an additional 6 mo. After the first 5 mo of treatment, there was a linear relationship between doses of HPR administered and HPR, MPR, and retinol levels. HPR and MPR levels increased with the increase in dose, whereas retinol levels decreased, and the reduction was statistically significant compared with the placebo group after all the doses tested. Plasma retinol binding proteins (RBP) decreased proportionally to retinol (r = 0.96). The effect of HPR on retinol and RBP occurred early, since retinol and RBP levels had already been decreased, compared with the initial levels, by 38% and 26%, respectively, 24 h after a 200 mg HPR dose. After 12 mo of treatment, in patients treated with 200 mg daily, the dose chosen for a chemopreventive trial, HPR and retinol levels were similar to those found at 5 mo, suggesting no drug accumulation and no further retinol reduction, whereas MPR levels were higher. Following interruption of treatment, as HPR decreased, retinol increased with a linear relationship between log levels (r = 0.78); after about 50 days, HPR was present in trace amounts, and retinol levels were in the range of those of the placebo group. These data show that HPR treatment lowers retinol and RBP plasma concentrations. This effect is related to HPR levels and is reversible on cessation of HPR administration. PMID- 2529029 TI - [24-hour behavior of T-lymphocyte subpopulations in patients with stable heart transplants receiving cyclosporin therapy]. AB - In 10 heart transplanted subjects (HTS) undergoing conventional immunosuppressive cyclosporine therapy, in comparison with 10 normal subjects, the 24 hour patterns of T lymphocyte subpopulations, namely, OKT3 (total T lymphocytes), OKT4 (helper lymphocytes) and OKT8 (cytotoxic or suppressor) in relation to the circadian rhythms for plasma cortisol (marker rhythm) and to circulating levels of cyclosporine were studied. From the collected data, it can be deduced that the OKT3, OKT4, OKT8 subpopulations and the plasma cortisol level show 24-hour non periodic variations. The lymphocyte subpopulations show a negative correlation with circulating levels of cyclosporine. The negative correlation is "selective" and "delayed" in that it is detectable at particular and non-coinciding hours. Plasma cortisol is also negatively correlated to plasma cyclosporine. Assessing the meaning of the lack of a circadian rhythm of the lymphocyte subpopulation in HTS undergoing conventional cyclosporine therapy, and taking into account the pharmacological time-stage dependency, we can emphasize the idea that the optimization of anti-rejection therapy with cyclosporine may and should be performed as a time-modulated treatment. PMID- 2529030 TI - [Validity of some electrocardiographic criteria in left ventricular hypertrophy]. AB - The aim of the study was the assessment of the sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of some ECG criteria of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). Left ventricular mass (LVM) measured on the M-mode echogram of the left ventricle was the reference standard. Ninety-four (94) unselected, consecutive clinical patients (34 women, 60 men, average age 47 years) underwent in the same day, ECG and echocardiogram. Exclusion criteria were the presence of ischemic heart disease, atrial fibrillation and Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome. The ECG tracings were interpreted independently by 2 investigators following 5 independent criteria of LVH: 1) Sokolow-Lyon voltage criterion (SL); 2) a modified Romhilt Estes point score (REM); 3) left atrial abnormality (LAA); 4) left ventricular strain; 5) a new voltage criterion RaVL + SV3 corrected by sex and age. The left ventricular M-mode echograms were recorded using a left parasternal approach and were interpreted independently by 2 investigators. LVM was measured using the "Penn convention" and taking the R wave peak as end-diastole. The prevalence of LVH (= LVM 215 g) in the study population was 47%. The following results were achieved (sensitivity, specificity, accuracy): SL: 68.2%, 84%, 76.6%; REM: 63.6%, 90%, 77.7%: LAA: 36.4%, 84%, 61.7%; strain 52.3%, 72%, 62.8%; RaVL + SV3: 54.5%, 82%, 69.1%. Our data suggest: 1) the high sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of Romhilt-Estes point score are confirmed; 2) the sensitivity of Sokolow-Lyon voltage criterion is reevaluated; 3) the most sensitive morphological criterion seems to be the left ventricular strain; 4) a new voltage criterion could be useful. PMID- 2529031 TI - [Differences in patient sensitivity to currently used non-depolarized curaremimetics and factors which affect it]. AB - A whole number of factors which affect the depth as well as duration of the block after administration of non-depolarizing myorelaxants, both positively and negatively. However, the effect in one patient can be predicted only with difficulty--as this paper showed--as neither the hydration level, age nor kalemia concentration had any effect on the depth of the neuromuscular block. Neither in patients, otherwise healthy, is it possible to predict the degree of the neuromuscular block after administering a standard dose of curaremimetic. The depth of the block can only be established by an objective method--mechano myoscopic block monitoring. For this purpose, the authors use a Czechoslovak-made neuromuscular stimulator LSN 110. The determination of the actual block depth can help to control relaxation according to the needs of the surgeon or anaesthesiologist, and according to the individual patient's sensibility. A different sensibility response to myorelaxants was found in pipecuronium, vecuronium and even in atracurium. It corresponds approximately to gaussian curve of frequency. PMID- 2529033 TI - Effects of prostanoids on human and rabbit basilar arteries precontracted in vitro. AB - The effect of a range of prostanoids on human and rabbit basilar arteries precontracted in vitro in the presence of the thromboxane receptor-blocking drug AH23848B was investigated. On the rabbit basilar artery and in the presence of AH23848B the thromboxane A2 mimetic U-46619 produced further concentration related contractions of the tissue. All other prostaglandins (except ICI81008 and PGF2 alpha which had no effect) produced concentration-related relaxations with the rank order of relaxant potency being PGE2 greater than Iloprost greater than PGI2 = PGE1 = 16,16-dimethyl PGE2 = PGD2. On the human basilar artery PGI2 and iloprost produced concentration-related relaxations with iloprost being more potent than PGI2. At high concentrations both these compounds produced reduced relaxant responses. All other prostanoids (except ICI81008 and PGD2 which had no effect) contracted the tissue, the rank order of contractile potency being 16,16 dimethyl PGE2 greater than PGE2 greater than PGF2 alpha = PGE1 greater than U46619 much greater than ICI81008 and PGD2. It is concluded that the human basilar artery possesses two contractile prostanoid receptors, a TP receptor and one which may be of the EP-type in addition to a prostanoid receptor mediating relaxation which may be of the IP-type. The prostanoid receptor(s) mediating relaxation of the rabbit in vitro basilar artery is difficult to determine. The relevance of the observations to cerebrovascular disorders such as migraine and vasospasm is discussed. PMID- 2529032 TI - Location of the integrin complex and extracellular matrix molecules at the chicken myotendinous junction. AB - The distribution of several extracellular matrix macromolecules was investigated at the myotendinous junction of adult chicken gastrocnemius muscle. Localization using monoclonal antibodies specific for 3 basal lamina components (type IV collagen, laminin, and a basement membrane form of heparan sulfate proteoglycan) showed strong fluorescent staining of the myotendinous junction for heparan sulfate proteoglycan and laminin, but not for type IV collagen. In addition, a strong fluorescent stain was observed at the myotendinous junction using a monoclonal antibody against the beta subunit of the chicken integrin complex (antibody JG 22). Neither fibronectin nor tenascin were concentrated at the myotendinous junction, but instead were present in a fibrillar staining pattern throughout the connective tissue which was closely associated with the myotendinous junction. Tenascin also gave bright fluorescent staining of tendon, but no detectable staining of the perimysium or endomysium. Type I collagen was observed throughout the tendon and in the perimysium, but only faintly in the endomysium. In contrast, type III collagen was present brightly in the endomysium and in the perimysium, but could not be detected in the tendon except when associated with blood vessels and in the epitendineum, which stained intensely. Type VI collagen was found throughout the tendon and in all connective tissue partitions of skeletal muscle. The results indicate that one or more molecules of the integrin family may play an important role in the attachment of muscle to the tendon. This interaction does not appear to involve extensive binding to fibronectin or tenascin, but may involve laminin and heparan sulfate proteoglycan. PMID- 2529034 TI - Percutaneous brachial approach for transluminal coronary angioplasty. AB - Transluminal coronary angioplasty from the arm is performed generally with cutdown and brachial arteriotomy. We describe a brachial percutaneous technique for coronary angioplasty, almost similar to the femoral one, with a special focus on the prevention of induced vasoconstriction. Our preliminary results are satisfactory and without complications: 13 procedures in 11 patients have been performed over a 30 month period, with the sheaths left in place for 4-6 h after the procedure. This method could be an easy alternative to the Sones technique for operators who are essentially familiar with the femoral percutaneous arterial approach. PMID- 2529035 TI - Percutaneous brachial coronary angioplasty utilizing a standard side arm sheath introducer system. AB - A percutaneous approach via the brachial artery for coronary angioplasty is described. The technique employs a standard side arm sheath introducer system routinely intended for the femoral artery. Initial experience in ten cases shows this to be a relatively easy and safe alternative to conventional brachial arteriotomy, with some distinct advantages. It is less time consuming, permits the use of a variety of standard preformed guiding catheters, is associated with less patient discomfort, and the sheaths may be left in place for many hours if the angioplasty is complicated and/or long-term anticoagulation is desirable. Complications were limited to the female patients in this series. This technique is most suited to those operators who employ the brachial approach infrequently and only out of necessity in patients with severe peripheral vascular disease. PMID- 2529036 TI - Staged thrombolysis and percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty for unstable and postinfarction angina. AB - The precise timing of intravenous thrombolysis and coronary angioplasty continues to be evaluated for patients who have coronary thrombosis and unstable angina or postinfarction angina. Coronary angioplasty is effective for these patients but is associated with thromboembolic coronary occlusion in 24% to 29% of cases. After adjunctive intravenous thrombolysis and oral antiplatelet therapy to improve the success rate and to decrease the risk of acute occlusion, deferred angioplasty was successful in three patients with intracoronary thrombus and unstable angina or postinfarction angina. Staged thrombolysis and deferred angioplasty is feasible for selected patients with these acute coronary syndromes. PMID- 2529037 TI - Valve injury and repair in balloon aortic valvuloplasty. AB - Aortic valves 0.5, and 4.5 months after successful percutaneous balloon aortic valvuloplasty (BAV) were examined. BAV caused macroscopic and microscopic fractures in calcific deposits. An inflammatory response was identified that may lead to valvular scarring. This process may be an important factor in the development of restenosis after BAV. PMID- 2529038 TI - Repeat balloon aortic valvuloplasty for aortic valve restenosis. AB - Effective balloon aortic valvuloplasty (BAV) is limited restenosis. After aortic valve restenosis six patients underwent repeat BAV. In spite of the use of larger balloons there was a trend toward a less satisfactory result after repeat BAV (0.98 +/- .26 cm2 vs. 1.2 +/- .26 cm2), which did not reach statistical significance, P = .14. Mortality of the patients at 6 months was 50%. Repeat BAV may be less efficacious than the original procedure. PMID- 2529039 TI - Half-att site substrates reveal the homology independence and minimal protein requirements for productive synapsis in lambda excisive recombination. AB - The early events in site-specific excisive recombination were studied with phage lambda half-att sites that have no DNA to one side of the strand exchange region; they carry a single core-type integrase binding site and either P or P' arm flanking DNA. These half-attR and half-attL sites exhibit normal properties for the initial (covalent) top-strand transfer and form stable intermediates independent of later steps in the reaction. With these novel substrates we show that Xis specifically promotes the first strand exchange and that attL enhances Int cleavage at the top-strand site of attR. It is also shown that synapsis and initial strand transfers do not require DNA-DNA pairing but are mediated by protein-protein and protein-DNA interactions. These involve the two top-strand Int binding sites (required for the first strand exchange) and, in addition, one of the two bottom-strand sites (C') responsible for the second strand exchange. PMID- 2529040 TI - Regulation of antibody secretion by hybridoma cells. II. Mechanism of idiotype induced suppression of antibody secretion by hybridoma cells. AB - We have previously reported that antibody secretion by B.22 hybridoma cells can be suppressed in an MHC-restricted manner, by idiotype-specific T cells. It was shown that T cells of both helper and suppressor phenotypes are involved, and that the suppression is mediated by soluble factors. In the present paper, we have characterized the effects of T-cell-mediated suppression at the level of B.22 antibody mRNA expression and stability. Nuclear run-on analysis comparing suppressed and control B.22 cells indicates no change in the transcription rates of heavy and light chains. Northern blot analysis demonstrates that steady-state levels of heavy and light chain mRNAs are also unchanged. Thus, the suppression of antibody secretion by B.22 cells probably occurs at the levels of translation or secretion. PMID- 2529041 TI - Hormone-induced preimplantation Lyt 2+ murine uterine suppressor cells persist after implantation and may reduce the spontaneous abortion rate in CBA/J mice. AB - Immunoregulatory cells in the maternal uterine endometrium and decidua are thought to play an important role in ensuring the success of the semiallogeneic conceptus. Two phases of suppression have been described in pregnant mice. Prior to implantation, the hormonal changes triggered by mating activate or recruit a population of nonspecific Lyt 2+ suppressor cells that inhibit cytotoxic T lymphocyte generation: this suppression appears to wane at the time or implantation and 4-5 days after implantation, a non-T suppressor cell population activated or recruited by fetal trophoblast cells develops. In this paper we confirm the non-major histocompatibility complex specificity of the hormone regulated preimplantation suppressor cell. We show that this activity persists in the uterus during the early postimplantation period where its suppressive activity is masked by an Fc-receptor-positive cell population recruited by the implanting embryo. The potential importance of the persisting suppressor cells is suggested by an increase in the rate of spontaneous abortion of DBA2-mated CBA/J mice following injection of monoclonal anti-Lyt 2+ antibody in the early postimplantation period. PMID- 2529042 TI - Murine T helper cell clones secrete granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GmCSF) by both interleukin-2-dependent and interleukin-2-independent pathways. AB - Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GmCSF) is a lymphokine secreted by class II major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-restricted T cells after lectin or antigen stimulation. To investigate the relationship between interleukin-2 (IL-2) and GmCSF production, we utilized long-term cultures of porcine myelin basic protein (PMBP)-specific T helper cell clones that were maintained with IL-2 in the absence of antigen or irradiated antigen-presenting cells (APC). We have found that supernatants of these T cell clones contained GmCSF activity after IL-2 stimulation. Inhibition of cell proliferation by irradiation failed to stop GmCSF production. When these clones were stimulated with PMBP and irradiated APC in the presence of anti-IL-2 receptor antibody, the T cell supernatants still contained GmCSF activity. These results indicate that (1) GmCSF production by T helper clones after IL-2 stimulation is independent of cell proliferation and (2) antigen/MHC-stimulated GmCSF production by T cell clones can occur by an IL-2-independent pathway. PMID- 2529043 TI - [Complications after laparoscopic sterilization]. PMID- 2529044 TI - Premeiotic disruption of duplicated and triplicated copies of the Neurospora crassa am (glutamate dehydrogenase) gene. AB - Premeiotic inactivation of duplicated sequences (the RIP phenomenon of Selker et al.) was studied by tetrad analysis using ectopic copies of am+ (coding for NADP specific glutamate dehydrogenase) and a missense allele am3, coding for a distinctive form of the enzyme, at the normal locus. In duplication crosses either both gene copies were inactivated or neither. Two inactivated am3 derivatives were shown to have undergone methylation and numerous base-pair changes, reflected in losses and gains of restriction sites, but without sequence rearrangement. Cutting at restriction sites within the disrupted sequences was incomplete but became almost complete following growth in the presence of 5 azacytidine. In a triplication cross in which one parent carried two unlinked ectopic gene copies together with am3 at the normal locus, premeiotic inactivation, when it occurred, tended to affect two of the three copies in any one ascus, but there were a few asci in which all three were inactivated. PMID- 2529045 TI - [Percutaneous balloon angioplasty of post-traumatic stenoses of the femoral artery in a 10-year-old boy]. PMID- 2529046 TI - [Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of the branches of the aortic arch]. AB - Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) takes its stable position in the therapy of obliterating arterial diseases. Its indication areas considerably extend. The authors present a survey of their experience and the results of PTA of arteries supplying the brain and upper extremities. This surgery was made in 29 patients on 31 arteries. The authors consider PTA on a. subclavia as a method of choice. In the angioplasty on a. vertebralis there is a very low risk in correctly indicated cases. An atherosclerotic stricture of a. carotis interna is not considered suitable for PTA for the risk of embolism from the exulcerated plaques. However, the method may be used with advantage in the stenosis based on fibromuscular dysplasia and in some cases of early restenoses in a. carotis interna after previous endarterectomy. The authors arrive at the conclusion that PTA, if correctly indicated, is a safe method even in arteries supplying the brain and upper extremities. No complication was observed in the reported group. PMID- 2529047 TI - Intranasal opiates: old route for new drugs. PMID- 2529048 TI - Comparison of intravenous and intranasal sufentanil absorption and sedation. AB - The absorption and sedation following an intranasal dose of sufentanil were evaluated and compared with those of the same dose given intravenously. Sixteen adult patients scheduled for elective surgery were randomly allocated to receive as premedication 15 micrograms sufentanil either intravenously or intranasally. Before administration and at fixed time intervals thereafter, the degree of sedation was assessed, vital signs were recorded and venous blood samples were taken for the determination of sufentanil plasma concentrations. Peroperative sedation of rapid onset and limited duration was seen in both groups. However, the onset of sedation was more rapid after intravenous injection. At 10 min, all patients in the IV group were sedated versus only two in the intranasal group (P less than 0.01). No significant intergroup differences in sedation were seen at 20 to 60 min. This clinical effect is in agreement with the measured plasma levels, which were significantly lower after intranasal application at 5 and 10 min, being 36 and 56 per cent of those after IV dosing, respectively. From 30 min, plasma concentrations were virtually identical for the two routes of administration. The AUC0-120 min after intranasal dosing was 78 per cent of that after intravenous injection. Intranasal dosing induced no clinically significant changes in vital signs, whereas after IV sufentanil, a clinically significant decrease in PaO2 was seen at 5 min. The results of this study show that sufentanil, when administered intranasally, is rapidly and effectively absorbed from the human nasal mucosa, so that this route may be an attractive alternative for a premedicant, avoiding the discomfort of an intravenous or intramuscular injection. PMID- 2529049 TI - Influence of hypothermic cardiopulmonary bypass on atrial natriuretic factor levels. AB - Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) is a peptide released from the heart in response to atrial distension. This peptide causes diuresis, vasodilatation, decreased blood pressure, and antagonizes the renin-aldosterone and antidiuretic hormone neuraxes. The influence of cardiopulmonary bypass and cardiac surgery on the circulation and release of ANF is unknown. Plasma ANF concentrations were therefore determined in patients undergoing coronary artery revascularization (CABG) and mitral valve replacement (MVR). Peptide levels were unchanged following anaesthetic induction. Plasma ANF concentrations decreased significantly during hypothermic (less than or equal to 28 degrees C) cardiopulmonary bypass in both patient groups. After 60 minutes of cardiac bypass, ANF declined from (mean +/- SEM) 512 +/- 132 to 20 +/- 6 pg.ml-1 (P less than 0.05) during MVR, and from 178 +/- 41 to 110 +/- 48 pg.ml-1 during CABG (P less than 0.05). Rewarming during bypass was associated with an increase in ANF concentration in both groups. Heparin anticoagulation and protamine reversal had no effect on immunoreactive ANF levels. In patients undergoing CABG, there was a linear relationship between plasma ANF concentration (pg.ml-1) and right atrial pressure (mmHg) prior to cardiopulmonary bypass (r = 0.86, P less than 0.005). However, one and three hours after cardiopulmonary bypass there was no significant relationship between right atrial pressure and ANF plasma levels. These results suggest that reduction in plasma ANF concentration occurs during hypothermic cardiopulmonary bypass. Furthermore, the proportional relationship between atrial distension and circulating ANF concentration was altered following cardiac surgery. PMID- 2529051 TI - Inhibition of 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene-initiated and 12-O tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate-promoted skin papilloma formation in mice by dehydroepiandrosterone and two synthetic analogs. AB - Previous work has demonstrated that the adrenal steroid, dehydroepiandrosterone (3-beta-hydroxy-5-androsten-17-one, DHEA), has broad spectrum tumor chemopreventive activity in laboratory mice and rats, inhibiting the development of spontaneous breast cancer and chemically induced tumors of the lung, colon, skin, thyroid and liver. DHEA treatment produces specific side-effects, including estrogenic and androgenic action and an increase in liver weight, which could limit its use as a cancer chemopreventive drug. It is now shown that oral administration of the synthetic steroid 16 alpha-fluoro-5-androsten-17-one, which lacks the side-effects of DHEA treatment, to CD-1 mice inhibits 7,12 dimethylbenz[a]anthracene-initiated and 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate promoted skin papilloma formation at both the initiation and promotion stage. The synthetic steroid is more potent as an inhibitor of papilloma formation than comparably administered DHEA. PMID- 2529050 TI - Carbon dioxide embolism treated with hyperbaric oxygen. AB - We report a case of suspected carbon dioxide embolism occurring during laparoscopy. Among the sequelae was neurological dysfunction felt to be secondary to paradoxical embolization. The patient was treated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Hyperbaric oxygen should be considered when confronted with a clinically important gas embolism. PMID- 2529052 TI - Effects of chronic hypertension and its reversal on arteries and arterioles. AB - The reversibility of functional and structural microvascular alterations in chronic renal hypertension has not been established. Twelve weeks after surgery to induce hypertension, in vivo arteriolar and venular dimensions were measured in the cremaster muscle of rats with one-kidney, one-clip hypertension (1K1C), rats in which the clip was removed after 8 weeks (1KNT), and controls. Systolic blood pressure was significantly elevated after 3 days in 1K1C rats and reached a plateau by 6 weeks. In 1KNT rats, systolic blood pressures were similar to 1K1C rats but were normalized 1 day after unclipping. A marked medial-intimal hypertrophy was found by histological techniques in the thoracic and abdominal aortae (45% and 69%, respectively) but not in cremaster feeding arteries of 1K1C rats. These arterial changes were reversed after unclipping. In 1K1C rats, medial intimal area decreased in first- through fourth-order (1A, 2A, 3A, and 4A) arterioles along with a decline in relaxed diameter (41%, 30%, 20%, and 21%, respectively), which was only partially restored after unclipping. Heart weight was increased by 67% in 1K1C rats, but it did not differ between 1KNT and controls. Therefore, the reversal of chronic renal hypertension can normalize gross structural alterations in the heart and large vessels, but more time may be required to normalize completely the arteriolar changes. These data indicate that long-term structural adaptations in renal hypertension are different in arterioles and arteries, and they may be related to chronic changes in blood flow and/or pressure. PMID- 2529053 TI - Influence of inflation pressure and balloon size on the development of intimal hyperplasia after balloon angioplasty. A study in the atherosclerotic rabbit. AB - To evaluate the effect of balloon size and inflation pressure on acute and subsequent outcome following balloon angioplasty (BA), 70 New Zealand White rabbits with bilateral femoral atherosclerosis were assigned to four groups: group 1, oversized balloon, low inflation pressure (n = 35 vessels; balloon size, 3.0 mm/inflation pressure, 5 atm); group 2, oversized balloon, high inflation pressure (n = 36; 3.0 mm/10 atm); group 3, appropriate size, low inflation pressure (n = 17; 2.5 mm/5 atm); and group 4, appropriate size balloon, high inflation pressure (n = 19; 2.5 mm/10 atm). Angiograms were obtained before, 10 minutes after, and 28 days after BA and read by two blinded observers using electronic calipers. The in vivo balloon-to-vessel ratio was measured for each group. There were eight non-BA controls. Rabbits were sacrificed either immediately (n = 34) or at 28 days after BA (n = 36), with the femoral vessels pressure perfused for histologic and morphometric analysis. The latter was performed at 28 days only. Absolute angiographic diameters increased in all groups immediately after BA (p less than 0.01). Acute angiographic success, defined as greater than 20% increase in luminal diameter, was higher using high inflation pressure (group 2, 32/36 [89%] and group 4, 16/19 [84%] vs. group 1, 23/35 [66%] and group 3, 9/17 [53%]; p less than 0.05). A 3.0-mm balloon resulted in significant oversizing irrespective of inflation pressure (balloon-to-vessel ratio, 1.5 +/- 0.1 vs. 1.1 +/- 0.1 to 1, for the 2.5-mm balloon). Vessels exposed to high inflation pressure had a significantly higher incidence of mural thrombus, dissection (p less than 0.01), and medial necrosis versus low pressure (p less than 0.05). At 28 days, the rates of restenosis (defined as greater than 50% loss of initial gain) were 14/20 (70%), 11/16 (69%), 5/10 (50%), and 5/10 (50%) for groups 1 through 4 (p = NS; a trend in favor of the groups using an oversized balloon). There was an increase in the degree of intimal hyperplasia by morphometric analysis in all groups, being most marked in group 2 (oversized balloon and high inflation pressure, 1.7 +/- 0.9 vs. 0.5 +/- 0.2 mm for controls, p less than 0.001). We reached two conclusions. First, all protocols resulted in a significant increase in luminal diameter immediately after angioplasty with the highest success rate in vessels subjected to high pressure dilatation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2529054 TI - Noninvasive assessment of myocardial composition and function in the hypertrophied heart. PMID- 2529055 TI - Usefulness of high-dose dipyridamole echocardiography test in coronary angioplasty. AB - Seventy-four consecutive patients with angina undergoing single-lesion percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty were evaluated with high-dose (up to 0.84 mg/kg during 10 minutes) dipyridamole echocardiography test (DET) before angioplasty and when possible, afterward. Angioplasty was clinically or angiographically successful in 63 patients and unsuccessful in 11. Before the procedure, 69 patients had a positive DET. Of these 69 patients, six with clinicall unsuccessful angioplasty had a dipyridamole time (i.e., the time from the onset of dipyridamole infusion to development of asynergy) lower than the 63 patients with clinically successfully angioplasty (4.2 +/- 2.9 vs. 7.0 +/- 2.9 minutes, mean +/- SD, p less than 0.01). In the five patients with angiographically unsuccessful angioplasty (residual stenosis diameter, greater than 50%), coronary stenosis decreased from 89 +/- 10 to 69 +/- 22 (p = NS); DET was positive in all five before and in four of the five after the procedure (100% vs. 80%, p = NS). In the 63 patients with angiographically successful angioplasty, coronary stenosis diameter was reduced from 85 +/- 9% to 30 +/- 10% (p less than 0.01). DET was positive in 58 patients before and in only 16 after the procedure (92% vs. 25%, p less than 0.01). In the 16 patients with positive DET, before and after angioplasty, dipyridamole time increased from 5.6 +/- 2.2 before to 7.3 +/- 2.4 minutes immediately after the procedure (p less than 0.05). After an average follow-up time of 10.8 +/- 5.9 months, angina recurred in eight of 47 patients with negative DET after angioplasty and in 11 of 16 patients with positive DET (17% vs. 69%, p less than 0.01).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2529056 TI - Functional significance of hypertrophy of the noninfarcted myocardium after myocardial infarction in humans. AB - Hypertrophy of the noninfarcted left ventricle as a chronic response to myocardial infarction has been demonstrated in animals and at autopsy in humans. However, the functional significance of postmyocardial infarction hypertrophy is a subject of dispute. The purpose of this study was to determine the time course of development of postmyocardial infarction hypertrophy of the noninfarcted myocardium in humans and to assess its functional significance. Subcostal view, two-dimensional echocardiograms were recorded at rest and during peak exercise, 6 and 40 weeks postmyocardial infarction in 45 patients (16 anterior, 20 inferior, nine non-Q wave infarcts), for measurement of left ventricular mass and ejection fraction. The left ventricular mass index increased from 94 +/- 30 to 118 +/- 27 g/m2 (p less than 0.01) during the time of the two studies. There was a significant correlation between the change in left ventricular mass index and improved resting ejection fraction (r = 0.48, p less than 0.001) and exercise ejection fraction (r = 0.48, p less than 0.001) at the follow-up study. Of the 32 patients who increased their left ventricular mass index greater than 7%, 18 improved their rest ejection fraction greater than 0.05 units and 17 improved their exercise ejection fraction greater than 0.05 units. Conversely, of the 13 patients who failed to increase their left ventricular mass index, only three improved their rest ejection fraction and one improved the exercise ejection fraction (Fisher's exact test, p less than 0.05). We reached three conclusions. First, in humans, significant hypertrophy of the noninfarcted myocardium can be detected by two-dimensional echocardiography, 9 months postmyocardial infarction.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2529057 TI - Intravascular ultrasound cross-sectional arterial imaging before and after balloon angioplasty in vitro. AB - A prototype ultrasound imaging catheter was evaluated in vitro using 17 human atherosclerotic artery segments before and after balloon dilatation angioplasty. The catheter was 1.2 mm in diameter and incorporated a single 20-MHz ultrasound transducer to obtain cross-sectional images of the arterial lumen. In 15 of the 17 (88%) arteries, high quality images were obtained, which demonstrated clear demarcation between the lumen and the endothelium, the atheroma plaque, the muscular media, and the adventitia. Qualitative characteristics of plaque disruption, dissection, and residual flaps were readily visible. In addition, quantitative information about cross-sectional lumen area was obtained before and after balloon dilatation. The mean cross-sectional lumen area increased from 8.7 to 15.1 mm2 (p less than 0.01) following balloon dilatation. The lumen area measured from the ultrasound images following dilatation correlated closely with the area measured from histologic sections (r = 0.88). The results from this study indicate that a small-diameter ultrasound imaging catheter can be developed that will provide high-resolution qualitative and quantitative information during peripheral and coronary angioplasty. PMID- 2529058 TI - Blunted sympathetic response to cardiopulmonary receptor unloading in hypertensive patients with left ventricular hypertrophy. A possible compensatory role of atrial natriuretic factor. AB - To investigate whether or not hypertension with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) modifies the mechanisms underlying the vascular adjustments to orthostatic stress, we evaluated the hemodynamic and hormonal effects of graded lower-body negative pressure (LBNP) (-10 and -40 mm Hg) before and after sympathetic blockade in 10 hypertensive patients with LVH and in five age- and sex-matched normotensive subjects. In control conditions, LBNP elicited comparable vasoconstrictor responses in the forearm in the two groups. In normotensive subjects, graded increases in plasma norepinephrine and plasma renin activity (PRA) and reductions in plasma immunoreactive atrial natriuretic factor (irANF) were recorded. In hypertensive patients, a significant increase in plasma norepinephrine and plasma renin activity was obtained only with the higher level of LBNP, whereas irANF plasma levels decreased progressively. In both groups, sympathetic blockade abolished the increase in plasma renin activity and did not modify the changes in plasma irANF induced by both levels of LBNP in control conditions. The vascular response to -10 mm Hg LBNP remained unchanged after sympathetic blockade in both groups. However, after sympathetic blockade, the vasoconstrictor response to -40 mm Hg LBNP in normal subjects was no longer different from that elicited by -10 mm Hg LBNP, whereas in hypertensive patients the vasoconstrictor response was still significantly higher than that induced by 10 mm Hg LBNP. Direct correlations between the percent changes in forearm vascular resistance and those in plasma norepinephrine and plasma renin activity were found only in normal subjects in control conditions but were not observed after sympathetic blockade. On the contrary, the inverse correlation between changes in irANF plasma levels and in forearm vascular resistance found in control conditions in both groups was still observed after sympathetic blockade. In a separate group of hypertensive patients with left ventricular hypertrophy, exogenous infusion of ANF induced an increase in venous irANF plasma levels of the same magnitude of the decrease evoked by LBNP and significantly reduced forearm vascular resistance. These data show that in hypertensive patients with left ventricular hypertrophy, sympathetic activation does not contribute to the vascular response to cardiopulmonary receptor unloading (-10 mm Hg LBNP). They also suggest that in these patients inhibition of ANF secretion may play a role in the response to a low level of LBNP so that the peripheral vasoconstriction induced by cardiopulmonary receptor unloading is comparable to that observed in normal subjects despite the lack of appropriate sympathetic reflex vasoconstriction. PMID- 2529059 TI - Low-dose infusion of atrial natriuretic factor in mild essential hypertension. AB - Intra-arterial blood pressure, cardiac output, heart rate, right heart indexes, urinary electrolytes, and urinary volume were monitored in eight patients with untreated (WHO Class I) essential hypertension. The patients were given synthetic atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) (99-126 alpha-hANP) at 1 and 2 pmol/kg/min in series (phases 1 and 2, 2 hours each dose) or vehicle (hemaccel) in random order on two separate occasions while on their usual diet. Arterial plasma ANF levels increased significantly from basal and time-matched placebo values from 25 +/- 2 and 28 +/- 3 pmol/l to 50 +/- 4 and 83 +/- 9 pmol/l at the end of phases 1 and 2, respectively (p less than 0.001). After 30 minutes during phase 2, systolic blood pressure decreased significantly by 20 +/- 4 mm Hg (p less than 0.001) from basal and time-matched placebo values and remained significantly reduced (-17 +/- 4 mm Hg, p less than 0.001) by the end of the recovery period (2 hours after infusions were completed). Pulmonary systolic blood pressure decreased by 5 +/- 1 mm Hg (phase 2, p less than 0.05). Cardiac output decreased by 0.5 +/- 0.1 l/min below baseline at the end of phase 2 of ANF infusion, whereas it increased significantly (p less than 0.02) by 0.6 +/- 0.1 l/min during vehicle infusion. Systemic diastolic, pulmonary diastolic, right atrial, and wedge pressures were not significantly changed during ANF or vehicle infusions, nor were pulmonary vascular resistance or heart rate altered. Systemic vascular resistance did not change significantly during both infusions, whereas during recovery, systemic vascular resistance decreased significantly after ANF infusion was discontinued (p less than 0.05). Microhematocrit levels increased dose dependently during ANF. The maximum increase was observed at the end of phase 2 (+4.7 +/- 1.7%), whereas the microhematocrit level decreased to -2.4 +/- 0.6% with vehicle (p less than 0.001) at the end of phase 2. Urinary sodium excretion increased significantly (p less than 0.02) by the end of phase 2 under ANF infusion (+38 +/- 15%), whereas it decreased (-10 +/- 6%) under placebo infusion by the end of phase 2. Urinary magnesium excretion was significantly increased during ANF infusion from phase 1 (p less than 0.02), whereas urinary potassium levels, calcium levels, creatinine levels, volume, and glomerular filtration rate did not differ significantly between the two infusions. Plasma renin, angiotensin II, aldosterone, and catecholamine concentrations did not change significantly during ANF or vehicle infusions.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2529060 TI - Ultrasonic tissue characterization of human hypertrophied hearts in vivo with cardiac cycle-dependent variation in integrated backscatter. AB - Integrated ultrasonic backscatter (IB) is a noninvasive measure of the acoustic properties of myocardium. Previous experimental studies have indicated that altered acoustic properties of the myocardium are reflected by the magnitude of variation of IB during the cardiac cycle. In our study, cardiac cycle-dependent variation of IB was noninvasively measured using a quantitative IB imaging system in 12 patients with uncomplicated pressure-overload hypertrophy and 13 patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Sixteen normal subjects served as a control. The magnitude of cardiac cycle-dependent variation of IB for the posterior wall was 6.0 +/- 0.9 dB in normal subjects, 5.7 +/- 0.8 dB in the patients with uncomplicated pressure-overload hypertrophy, and 6.7 +/- 2.1 dB in the patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. There were no significant differences among any of these groups. In contrast, the magnitude of cardiac cycle-dependent variation of IB for the septum was significantly smaller in the patients with uncomplicated pressure-overload hypertrophy (2.8 +/- 1.3 dB) and in the patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (3.1 +/- 2.3 dB) than in normal subjects (4.9 +/- 1.0 dB). The magnitude of cardiac cycle-dependent variation of IB was smaller as the wall-thickness index increased (r = -0.53, p less than 0.01, n = 82 for all data). This IB measure also correlated with percent-systolic thickening of the myocardium (r = 0.67, p less than 0.01, n = 82). Thus, alteration in the magnitude of cardiac cycle-dependent variation of IB was observed in hypertrophic hearts and showed apparent regional myocardial differences. PMID- 2529061 TI - Postnatal development of dopamine D1 and D2 receptor sites in rat striatum. AB - Tissue was obtained from corpus striatum of maturing rats at representative postnatal ages of 8-120 days for evaluation of D1 and D2 dopamine (DA) receptor sites in radioreceptor assays based on use of 0.05-2.5 nM concentrations of [3H]SCH-23390 or [3H]domperidone, respectively. Pharmacologic selectivity was verified by high rank-correlations (rs greater than 0.90) of Ki values for representative test agents in both assays (vs 0.3 nM ligand), using striatal tissue obtained at ages 20 and 120 days. Data from repeated (3-5x) six concentration isotherm experiments involving a wide range of D1 or D2 radioligand concentrations were analyzed by linear regression of specific binding (B) vs free ligand concentration (F) in linearized form (B/F vs B) for each replicate assay and for pooled values, as well as by curve-fitting all available raw data (B vs F) using the LIGAND program adapted to microcomputer. Values for apparent ligand affinity (Kd = 0.15-0.35 nM) failed to show a consistent change with age, while values for apparent receptor site density (Bmax) followed a similar developmental course with both methods of analysis (between methods: r = 0.99 and 0.89 for D1 and D2 assays, respectively, across all ages tested).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2529062 TI - Lp(a) lipoprotein concentration in serum of patients with heavy proteinuria of different origin. AB - We measured serum cholesterol, triglyceride, and lipoprotein Lp(a) concentrations in serum of 37 patients with massive proteinuria of different origin, comparing values with those for age- and sex-matched controls and finding significantly increased Lp(a) concentration in the total group of patients compared with controls. Lp(a) concentration was not correlated with serum cholesterol, triglyceride, serum creatinine, daily urinary protein loss, or selectivity index. Selecting the patients according to their histological diagnosis obtained by renal needle biopsy, we found divergent results in seven patients with minimal change disease (MCD) compared with 11 patients with membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis. Lp(a) in MCD patients did not differ from that controls (101 +/- 102 and 90 +/- 115 mg/L) and correlated positively with total daily urinary protein loss (r = 0.7962, P less than 0.05). In contrast, the patients with membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis had significantly higher Lp(a) values than the controls (219 +/- 222 mg/L), and Lp(a) concentrations correlated negatively with the daily protein loss in urine (r = -0.6545, P less than 0.05). The most surprising results were the marked Lp(a) concentrations in serum of three patients with primary amyloidosis and nephrosis syndrome. Our results indicate a regulatory role of the kidney in the metabolism of Lp(a) and different effects on the serum Lp(a) concentration, depending on the type of damage to renal tissue. PMID- 2529063 TI - Plasma lipoprotein(a) and the Friedewald formula. PMID- 2529064 TI - Immunoassay of beta-hexosaminidase isoenzymes in serum in patients with raised total activities. AB - Enzyme immunoassay (EIA) methods with monoclonal antibodies specific for beta hexosaminidase (Hex) isoenzymes A and B in human serum are presented. The proportion of Hex A obtained with the EIA-methods was similar to that found with ion-exchange chromatography and isoelectric focusing (about 60% of total Hex activity). The EIA-method for Hex B reacted to a similar extent with Hex B, Hex P and intermediate forms. A highly significant correlation was obtained between total Hex activity in human sera assayed with a conventional enzyme substrate method and the total Hex activity obtained as the sum of Hex A and Hex B analyzed with the EIA-methods. In sera from individuals with increased total activity of Hex there was a positive correlation between total activity of Hex, and percent of Hex B found with the EIA-methods. Investigation of sera from pregnant women and sera from patients with liver cirrhosis and cholestasis showed that the increase in total activity in these patient groups was mainly due to an increase of the isoenzyme forms reacting with the EIA-method for Hex B. PMID- 2529065 TI - Plasma concentrations of atrial natriuretic factor in normal pregnancy and early puerperium. AB - The atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) and parameters related to renal sodium handling and renal function were evaluated in 92 normotensive pregnant women at different gestational ages (1st group: 7th-13th week, 2nd group: 14th-20th week; 3rd group: 21st-27th week; 4th group: 28th-34th week; 5th group: greater than 34th week), in 15 normotensive non-pregnant women and in 15 normotensive women 6 days after spontaneous delivery at the end of a normal pregnancy. ANF did not differ significantly between the 5 groups of pregnant women while, concurrently with a further increase in plasma volume (as shown by our data) it was significantly higher in late pregnancy (3rd and 5th groups) than in the non pregnant women. ANF in post-partum women was significantly higher than in non pregnant and pregnant women. Only in post-partum women was ANF significantly directly related to sodium excretion. Even though ANF does not seem to play an important role in water and sodium excretion in pregnancy in comparison with other hormones such as progesterone, oestriol and aldosterone, the higher levels of ANF in late pregnancy probably represent a compensatory increase when a given threshold of plasma volume (and therefore of atrial stretch) is reached. However ANF does seem to play a more important role in the induction of diuresis and natriuresis in early puerperium. PMID- 2529066 TI - Exercise, cardiovascular disease and blood pressure. AB - The "chronic" effect of exercise on blood pressure has been controversial and the debate has been confused by a large number of studies with inadequate methodology. Recent consistent findings in epidemiological, experimental and longitudinal intervention studies have suggested that a true antihypertensive effect which is independent of confounding effects of sodium intake, weight, etc. is more likely than not. Unlike some other measures of lowering blood pressure such as sodium restriction, alcohol moderation and some drugs, regular exercise is associated with beneficial effects on several risk factors and probably has an independent effect on cardiovascular mortality. The magnitude of the effect in previously sedentary subjects is greater than that of dietary measures which lower blood pressure except for weight reduction in the obese. Long-term effects on blood pressure are supported by evidence of a favourable influence on left ventricular hypertrophy. The mechanisms involved in the antihypertensive effect of exercise are unclear, but sympathetic withdrawal is one factor involved. Present evidence appears sufficient to include regular exercise amongst the useful therapies for hypertension. PMID- 2529067 TI - Ramipril reduces albuminuria in diabetic rats fed a high protein diet. AB - 1. Streptozotocin diabetes was induced in Wistar-Kyoto rats fed a 50% protein diet. Animals were randomized to receive either the ACE inhibitor ramipril, 1 mg/L in drinking water (n = 7), or no treatment (n = 7) and were studied for 6 months. Blood glucose, body weight and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) were measured at 0, 1, 4, 8 and 16 weeks of diabetes and urinary albumin excretion was measured every 8 weeks. 2. In both groups, GFR increased significantly within 1 week of induction of diabetes (P less than 0.001) and thereafter remained stable. There was no difference in GFR between the treated and untreated groups. 3. Urinary albumin excretion increased progressively in both groups throughout the study. Ramipril treatment reduced albuminuria by approximately 50% at weeks 16 and 24 (P less than 0.01). 4. The amelioration of diabetic albuminuria by ACE inhibition, in the setting of high dietary protein intake, may have important implications for the treatment of human diabetic nephropathy. PMID- 2529068 TI - In vitro effect of corticosteroid on immunoregulatory functions in primary biliary cirrhosis. AB - Primary biliary (PBC) has many features, suggesting immunopathogenic mechanisms involved in its etiology. However, none of the therapeutic modalities that are beneficial in many autoimmune diseases have been demonstrated to halt histologic progression of the disease or to induce a complete clinical, biochemical, and histologic remission on this disease. To investigate whether corticosteroids improve the abnormal immunoregulatory functions in PBC, the in vitro effect of corticosteroid on the activity of suppressor T cells and interleukin 2, an inducer of immunoregulatory cells, was evaluated in eight patients with PBC. Defective suppressor T cell activity was found in PBC; however, no clear improvement of T cell activity was observed after in vitro treatment of lymphocytes with corticosteroid. In PBC, interleukin 2 activity was normal, and the same decrease of activity as occurring in healthy controls was observed after corticosteroid treatment. These results suggest that a defect in the responsiveness of suppressor T cell activity to corticosteroid may play, at least in part, a role in the pathogenesis of corticosteroid ineffectiveness in PBC. PMID- 2529069 TI - In vitro effect of prednisolone on peripheral blood suppressor T cell activity in patients with alcoholic hepatitis. AB - An immunological process is suggested to play some role in the pathogenesis of alcoholic hepatitis; however, its nature has not been clarified. In the present study, we examined, in 30 patients with alcoholic liver disease, an in vitro effect of prednisolone on suppressor T cell activity to see whether an altered cellular immunoregulatory mechanism is affected by corticosteroid. Suppressor T cell activity, which was induced by concanavalin A (Con A), was assessed by inhibition of phytohemagglutinin-stimulated blast transformation of autologous lymphocytes, and prednisolone (10 micrograms/ml) was added when suppressor T cells were induced. Low suppressor T cell activity was found in alcoholic patients with hepatic fibrosis, alcoholic hepatitis, and cirrhosis with hepatitis; these reductions recovered to a normal range when lymphocytes were incubated in vitro with prednisolone, suggesting an improvement in the altered immunoregulation by prednisolone. Although immunotherapy is shown to be of no benefit in the treatment of alcoholic hepatitis, we propose a need to elucidate further the therapeutic modalities for correction of the immunoregulatory abnormalities in such patients. PMID- 2529070 TI - Immunohistochemical study of low affinity Fc receptor for IgE in reactive and neoplastic follicles. AB - The distribution of low affinity IgE Fc receptors (FceR2, FceRII) in reactive and neoplastic follicles was studied by an indirect immunoperoxidase method with monoclonal antibody specifically reacting to FceRII (H107). The tissues examined in this study included lymph nodes, extranodal tissues of divergent diseases, and follicular lymphomas. In the germinal centers (GCs) of the lymph follicles. FceRII showed a lace-like pattern irrespective of the distribution of IgE. In general, FceRII was positive only in the light zone and not in the dark zone of GCs. The distribution of FceRII was different from that of DRC1(+) FDC which were FceRII(+) and FceRII(-). FceRII was seen by immunoelectron microscopy on the cell surface of follicular dendritic cells (FDCs). IgE-positive GCs in Kimura's disease and Warthin's tumor were intensely positive for FceRII in their entire portion. In IgE-positive GCs, an increased number of FceRII-positive lymphoid GC cells was recognized by immunoelectron microscopic observation. In follicular lymphoma, there were also two types of FDC which were FceRII(+) and FceRII(-). These findings indicated that FceRII on FDCs was closely related to the IgE immune response and also was a marker for functional phase or differentiation of FDCs. PMID- 2529071 TI - Human IgG Fc receptors. AB - Considerable recent progress has been made in our understanding of how IgG immune complexes interact with plasma membrane Fc receptors (FcR) to mediate a diversity of biological responses in man. These responses include endocytosis of antibody complexes; stimulation of the secretion of various inflammatory mediators such as enzymes, oxygen products, and arachidonic acid derivatives; antibody-mediated cell killing by FcR-bearing cells; immune complex-mediated stimulation of the platelet release reaction; modulation of the immune response; and others. The Fc receptors responsible for transducing these responses have largely been characterized. They fall into three distinct classes (FcRI, FcRII, FcRIII) based upon a number of criteria including molecular size, affinity, and specificity for ligand, cell-specific display, and epitope expression; but with a few possible exceptions these three classes do not seem to correlate with the multiple functional properties of the receptors. Recently the primary structures of these molecules have been inferred from cDNA sequences. As members of the Ig gene superfamily, they all have extracellular portions consisting of two or three truncated disulfide-looped Ig-like domains. As a rule, these are rather conventional integral membrane glycoproteins bearing a short lipid-spanning polypeptide and a cytoplasmic tail of varying length, although one appears to be linked to the plasma membrane by a glycosyl phosphatidylinositol moiety and thus bears no cytoplasmic domain. Remarkably, within each class of FcR there appears to be considerable polymorphism, especially within the cytoplasmic portions. How these various structures dictate specific biological consequences is currently under study. PMID- 2529073 TI - The expansion of interventional radiology. Report of a survey conducted by the Royal College of Radiologists. AB - The Interventional Radiology Group of the Royal College of Radiologists sent a questionnaire to major hospitals in the United Kingdom in 1982 and 1987 in order to assess the impact of the introduction and growth of interventional procedures on patient management over the 5-year period and to consider the implications of these data for the future staffing and equipment requirements of radiology departments. In the 194 hospitals correctly completing the most recent survey, a total of 30,794 interventional procedures were performed in a 12 month period, representing an overall increase of 116% since the previous survey of 1982. PMID- 2529072 TI - Relationship between the pharmacokinetics and the analgesic and respiratory pharmacodynamics of epidural sufentanil. AB - To establish the relationships between epidural sufentanil analgesia and respiratory effects and to determine the pharmacokinetics of the drug, 22 adult patients undergoing thoracotomy were put into a randomized, double-blind study and received either 30, 50, or 75 micrograms per dose in 20 ml normal saline solution. Repeated doses were given on request for the 24-hour study period. There was a weak but significant nonlinear correlation between length of effective analgesia and the cumulative dose of the drug (r = 0.26, p less than 0.001). In 12 of 22 patients, the maximal length of effective analgesia was reached before the last dose and the effect tended to taper off thereafter. The mean maximal length of effective analgesia was 4.69 +/- 0.32 hours (mean +/- SEM), whereas the length of effective analgesia with the last dose was only 3.34 +/- 0.46 hours (p less than 0.0005). There was a significant correlation between the peak serum concentrations of sufentanil during the dose interval and the length of effective analgesia (r = 0.44, p less than 0.0001). Area under the concentration-time curve was proportional to the size of the epidural dose, and with all three doses tested there was a gradual accumulation of sufentanil in the serum. Mean time-to-peak concentration (tmax) increased with repeated doses (p less than 0.05). Mean serum concentration of sufentanil during periods of slow respiratory rate (0.47 +/- 0.05 ng/ml) was significantly higher than during episodes without adverse respiratory effects (0.37 +/- 0.05 ng/ml, p less than 0.05). The above data suggest that an important part of the analgesic and adverse effects of sufentanil are mediated centrally, after this opioid is absorbed systemically. PMID- 2529074 TI - Avulsed Olbert balloon. PMID- 2529075 TI - [The 75-seleno-homocholic acid-taurine test (SeHCAT). A useful method for detecting the idiopathic malabsorption of bile salts in chronic functional diarrhea]. AB - The 75-SeHCAT test has been used for identifying, within a group of patients with chronic functional diarrhea, a subgroup of cases with ileal bile acid malabsorption. Thirty-four subjects were studied: 10 healthy subjects and 24 patients with chronic functional diarrhea. Findings are expressed as percentage of basal abdominal radioactivity after 7 days. Normal values in our control subjects were: over 25% on day 4 and over 10% on day 7. Pathological results were found in 9 of 24 patients (37.5%) on day 4 and of 24 patients (41.7%) on day 7. A significant correlation was found between the percentages of retention on days 4 and 7 (p less than 0.001). In SeHCAT-positive patients cholestyramine administration led to clinical improvement. According to our experience, the SeHCAT test is a useful tool for the evaluation of bile acid malabsorption in the differential diagnosis of chronic functional diarrhea. PMID- 2529076 TI - [1% bifonazole lotion in the therapy of otomycosis]. AB - Twenty-five patients suffering from otomycosis were treated once daily with bifonazole lotion 1% for a period of 4-15 days (means +/- DS 9.5 +/- 2.6 days). Two days before the end of the treatment complete resolution of the clinical picture in 23/23 patients was observed. Direct mycological and cultural examinations undertaken during the same control visit showed complete eradication of the responsible fungi in all 23 patients. Two-four weeks after the end of therapy a further control visit was carried out, during which 2/21 cases with clinical and mycological relapses were seen; both patients had chronic otitis. Tolerability of bifonazole was satisfactory in all cases but one, who interrupted treatment because of pain and local hyperemia where the lotion had been applied. In some patients suffering from chronic otitis application of the lotion caused slight and short-lasting pain and burning of the ear. PMID- 2529077 TI - [Arterial hypertension during the rehabilitation phase of cerebral stroke. Study with nicardipine]. AB - Arterial blood pressure was recorded in 15 hypertensive patients with ischemic cerebrovascular disease in the post-acute stage and under treatment with nicardipine, a drug with tropism for the muscular cells of cerebral vessels. Blood pressure was measured at rest and during rehabilitation sessions. Patients were periodically assessed by Doppler examination of the cerebral vessels in order to evaluate the effect of the drug on vascular resistance. A significant reduction of blood pressure was observed without changes in pulse rate and without significant side effects. Hemodynamic parameters showed reduced resistance of cerebral vessels. These findings confirm the need for accurate control of arterial blood pressure during neurologic rehabilitation; they also bear out the efficacy and safety of nicardipine in this clinical situation. PMID- 2529078 TI - [Cardiovascular effects of calcium antagonists]. AB - In this brief review, the most relevant points of the history of calcium antagonists are described including their use in Chinese medicine. The mechanism of action on the heart and peripheral vessels is also reported. Finally, the therapeutic use of calcium antagonists in arterial hypertension is discussed. PMID- 2529079 TI - [Clinical functional study of a new delayed-action preparation of "once a day" anhydrous theophylline in patients with chronic obstructive bronchopneumopathy]. AB - A new long-acting theophylline formulation for once-daily administration has been tried in twenty patients with flare-ups of chronic obstructive bronchopulmonary disease (COPD). Clinical results were good and untoward side effects were not observed. Theophylline blood level was tested on the first day and once steady state had been achieved, and was always within the therapeutic range. PMID- 2529080 TI - [Problems with anesthetic drug therapy in pregnancy]. PMID- 2529081 TI - [Acute respiratory infections]. PMID- 2529082 TI - [Effects of ketanserin on arterial pressure at rest and during physical exercise in essential arterial hypertension]. AB - The antihypertensive effect of ketanserin, a recent 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) antagonist, which acts on the 5-HT2-subtype receptor, was evaluated in 10 patients of both sexes (age range 35-69 years) with mild to moderate essential hypertension. Blood pressure and heart rate were measured at rest, in supine and standing position at the end of two weeks of placebo washout and after 2, 4 and 8 weeks of treatment with ketanserin 20 mg twice daily as monotherapy, while the changes of blood pressure and heart rate during static (hand-grip) and dynamic (bicycle ergometer) exercise were evaluated at the end of placebo and of the fourth week of therapy. The treatment induced a highly significant reduction of supine and standing systolic and diastolic blood pressure during rest, without any significant change in heart rate. During dynamic exercise, the increase in systolic and diastolic blood pressure and heart rate was not blunted by ketanserin, while the drug reduced systolic blood pressure and heart rate increase, during static exercise, with no change of diastolic blood pressure. From these data it may be concluded that ketanserin lowers blood pressure in essential hypertension without any interference with cardiovascular reflexes related to standing or dynamic exercise, and reduces the increase of systolic blood pressure and heart rate during static exercise with favourable interference on myocardial oxygen consumption. This sparing effect on myocardial oxygen demand is particularly relevant in hypertensive patients with asymptomatic coronary disease engaged in normal daily physical activity which includes many forms of static exercise. PMID- 2529084 TI - [Metadoxine in alcohol-related pathology]. AB - Metadoxine is an active drug for treatment of acute and chronic alcohol intoxication, affecting both liver and brain function. The authors reviewed the international pharmacological and clinical literature on the drug which shows the potential usefulness of metadoxine in the treatment of alcohol-induced diseases. The case report concerns the results in 20 chronic alcoholics, admitted to the hospital for acute alcohol intake treated with metadoxine (one 500 mg tablet twice daily). Biohumoral hepatopathy parameters and clinical parameters of neuropsychic behaviour were examined simultaneously. Compared with a control group of patients undergoing traditional therapy (sedative and multi-vitamin drugs), metadoxine showed a significant improvement of the values of gamma-GT, GPT, blood ammonia, blood alcohol and of neuropsychic and behavioural parameters such as agitation, tremor, asterixis, sopor and depression. No side-effects or unfavourable reactions occurred during metadoxine treatment, which confirms the safety of this molecule. PMID- 2529083 TI - [Open clinical study on the efficacy and tolerance of acemetacin in rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthrosis]. AB - The authors report the results of an open clinical study of 60 outpatients of whom 20 were suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and 40 from osteoarthritis. The study was aimed at evaluating the efficacy and tolerability of the new indole derivative acemetacin and at a comparison with etodolac. The drug studied was found to be effective and to be tolerated better than indomethacin, particularly the absence of the most unpleasant side-effect of indole compounds, i.e., headache, was noted. PMID- 2529085 TI - [Ancylostomiasis]. AB - Ancylostomiasis, i.e., infestation by Ancylostoma duodenale or Necator americanus, involves several thousands of subjects every year throughout the world and especially in tropical and subtropical regions where it is endemic. In Italy, after a severe epidemic during the construction of the St. Gotthard tunnel in the 1880s, and after a period of endemic infestation limited to some areas (1955-60), the last few years have witnessed a marked drop in the incidence of this disease which is nevertheless relevant in that it involves certain groups with occupational risk (farmers, miners, workers in clay quarries, etc.) and certain geographic areas of our country where inadequate hygienic behavior still persists among the rural population. After up-dating the epidemiology of the infestation, the authors review the principal prophylactic and therapeutic measures available. PMID- 2529086 TI - [Hypoxemia due to respiratory causes]. AB - The results are reported of a study of 1218 patients with hypoxemia due to respiratory causes. In light of these findings, the literature on the most recent acquisitions concerning the pathophysiology, clinical aspects and management of hypoxemia due to acute and flare-ups of chronic respiratory pathology has been reviewed. PMID- 2529087 TI - [Recurrent lymphoblastic crises sensitive to vincristine in a case of chronic myeloid leukemia]. AB - Approximately one year after the onset of chronic myeloid leukemia, a 66-year-old patient had multiple recurrent blast crises with the morphological, cytochemical, and immunological features of lymphoblasts. The lymphoblastic eruptions proved always highly sensitive to small doses of vincristine only (1.5 mg), which at variable intervals, of at first 3 months and later 20 days, brought about the immediate disappearance of blast cells from the peripheral circulation as well as from bone marrow blood. Some variable clinical aspects of the case during the crises are described; the crises recurred until the patient's sudden death due to cardiac causes. PMID- 2529088 TI - [The superior median frenulum. Surgical-orthodontic treatment of a recurrence]. AB - The authors illustrate the etiopathogenic factors of the pathology resulting from superior inter-incisal diastema combined with labial frenulum. They point out that it is not possible to solve the examined pathology without an adequate program set out in close cooperation between orthodontist and periodontal surgeon. They also describe a case of relapse after frenectomy carried out before the suitable age for obtaining a final result which is lasting and constant. PMID- 2529089 TI - [Monitoring of plasma concentrations of aminoglycosides]. AB - Aminoglycosides are antibiotics commonly used in the management of a large number of gram- and gram+ infections but their use is limited by their potential nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity. At present, monitoring of plasma concentrations is the most reliable method for assuring adequate therapy with these antibiotics. The above paper was intended to show the importance of pharmacokinetic monitoring in order to guarantee therapeutic efficacy and control potential toxicity of aminoglycosides in a series of 90 patients. PMID- 2529090 TI - [Liver damage from alcohol in the elderly. Morphological, biohumoral and clinical aspects. Therapeutic measures]. AB - Having briefly analyzed the metabolism of ethanol in the human organism, the author describes hepatocellular damage induced by chronic alcohol abuse in old men. The evidence of great resistance of the senile liver to alcohol-induced damage is stressed as well as histological, biohumoral and clinical features of steatosis, chronic hepatitis, acute hepatitis and cirrhosis. Further, the author discusses the most suitable dietary and pharmacologic measures to be utilized in the above-mentioned phase of the liver disease due to chronic alcohol abuse. PMID- 2529091 TI - [Nicardipine in the therapy of arterial hypertension in elderly patients with the psycho-organic syndrome. Report on the results of the clinical study]. AB - Elderly hypertensive patients with psycho-organic syndrome were treated with nicardipine (40-60 mg daily) alone or combined with hydrochlorothiazide (30 mg). This treatment led not only to a significant reduction in blood pressure but also to improvement in the score of the scales used for psychogeriatric evaluation (SCAG = Sandoz Geriatric Assessment Scale and HAM-D = Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression). These findings appear to confirm the possibility to consider nicardipine a drug of first choice for the treatment of arterial hypertension in the elderly with psycho-organic syndrome. PMID- 2529093 TI - [Therapy of acute non-tubercular bronchopulmonary infections with josamycin]. AB - Thirty-five patients with acute pneumonia of bacterial etiology were treated with josamycin at the dose of 2 g/day (adults) or 50 mg/kg/day (children). Therapeutic results were completely satisfactory (100% recovery) and the incidence of side effects was very low (one case of urticaria). PMID- 2529092 TI - [Agranulocytosis caused by dipyrone. Case reports]. AB - Two cases of dipyrone-induced agranulocytosis are described. In the first one, the disease was due to a single administration, in the second one, to prolonged therapy. The possible pathogenic mechanism is discussed, which can be immunologic and/or toxic. The effectiveness of some of the drugs and general supportive measures applied is discussed. Health education of the patient, in conjunction with careful attention by the physician, may play an important role in the prevention of this pathological condition. PMID- 2529094 TI - [Piperacillin and amikacin in the treatment of infections in neoplasm patients with granulocytopenia]. AB - Infections are the most common cause of death in tumor patients. The risk of infection is progressively increased in relation to the severity of neutropenia. It is therefore essential to start empirical antibiotic therapy in these patients at the first sign of infection. Forty-three neutropenic tumor patients were entered into the above study when it was assumed that they had bacterial infections (temperature above 38.5 degrees C and/or signs and symptoms of infection). Patients with greater than 1000 neutrophils/mm3 were given piperacillin alone while those with more severe neutropenia (less than 1000/mm3) were given a combination of piperacillin plus amikacin. Of the 43 patients who had entered the study, 41 could be evaluated whereas the remaining two were considered dropouts either because of non-compliance with the study protocol or because the infection was found to be non-bacterial. In both groups of patients (greater than 1000 and less than 1000 neutrophils/mm3) infection resolved completely in a large percentage of cases (92% and 82%, respectively). The efficacy of piperacillin was therefore reconfirmed for the management of infection in oncologic patients with neutropenia, and proved to be an effective therapeutic resource in patients with both slight and severe neutropenia. PMID- 2529095 TI - [Retrospective study of 41 cases of pulmonary carcinoma diagnosed from 1983 to 1986]. AB - In their retrospective study of 41 cases of lung carcinoma diagnosed in their department in the years 1983-86, the authors aimed at assessing the dynamics of their clinical, instrumental and therapeutic approach to this widespread and socially relevant pathology. Among the aspects considered are: the patients' mean age and sex, relationship to smoking, clinical and cytologic diagnosis, instrumental exploration, presenting symptoms, therapeutic approach, mean survival time. On the basis of their findings, the authors come to the conclusion that their experience coincides with that reported in national and international studies with the same dramatic picture (usually late onset of symptoms, short survival, highly invasive growth). They therefore hope that in the near future the scientific community will engage in a more decisive manner and with better support from the health authorities and more adequate financial resources in ways aimed at reducing the incidence of this pathology, at acquiring better knowledge of the relationship with the environment, and at an improvement of diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. PMID- 2529096 TI - [Anthrax]. AB - Having dwelled on the etiopathogenetic, pathologic, and clinical features of human infections caused by B. anthracis, the authors review and analyze epidemiological data of the cases of anthrax registered in Italy during the last ten years. Actual possibilities for prevention are evaluated in view of the fact that enzootic foci still exist in our country which are clearly responsible for the typically occupational occurrence of this type of infection in certain at risk categories (farmers, husbandmen, butchers, veterinarians, but also workers in those branches of industry which use materials of animal origin, such as wool, leather, bristles, fur, etc.). PMID- 2529097 TI - A sensitive bioassay for teicoplanin in serum in the presence or absence of other antibiotics. AB - A teicoplanin bioassay has been developed that is accurate, sensitive, and reliable. A linear relationship is obtained between the diameter of the zone of inhibition and log10 teicoplanin concentration in human serum over the range of 0.15 or 1.25 to 96 micrograms/ml using wells or paper filter disks, respectively. The assay medium devised consists of 50 g BBL Mueller-Hinton II Agar, 30 g NaCl, 8 g CaCl2, and 1.0 g citric acid (monohydrate) per liter of deionized water (resulting pH 5.1 +/- 0.1) and the assay organism Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633. This system allows the assay of teicoplanin in the presence of commonly used aminoglycosides and in the presence of beta-lactams after inactivation by beta lactamase. Additionally, it has the potential to be used in the presence of rifampin by using a rifampin-resistant strain of B. subtilis. PMID- 2529098 TI - The sensitizing capacity of coumarins (III). AB - 9 coumarins used as chemical reagents, laser dyes, in perfumery, cosmetics or occurring naturally, were investigated experimentally in guinea pigs to determine their contact sensitizing capacity. 5,7-dihydroxycoumarin, limettin and 5,7 dihydroxy-4-methylcoumarin were found to be moderate sensitizers, while scoparone, isoscopoletin and 4-hydroxycoumarin were weak. The 3 laser dyes were completely negative. The results indicate that substitution in the 6 and 7 or 5 and 7 positions with 2 hydroxy groups supports allergenic capability, while other substituents (e.g., methoxy groups) in the same positions, or an additional (third) substituent, diminish activity. PMID- 2529099 TI - Skin reactions to hexylene glycol. AB - Hexylene glycol (HG), which has been used for years in industrial chemicals and cosmetics, has recently been introduced in topical corticosteroids. We studied the irritant and sensitizing properties of HG in eczema patients. HG at 50% or 30% and propylene glycol (PG) at 30% in water were patch tested in 823 eczema patients subjected to routine patch testing. Oedema and erythema reactions from HG occurred in 2.8% of the patients. The corresponding result for PG was 3.8%. 50% HG equalled 30% PG in producing a visible reaction. In patch tests with dilution series, 2 patients reacted to 1% HG, but in both cases ROAT with HG remained negative. One other patient with a 3+ patch test reaction to both 30% PG and 50% HG had a positive ROAT result to 30% HG in water and to 5% PG in a cream base. PG, but not HG, increased transepidermal water loss both in atopic normal looking skin and among healthy controls. The present results suggest that HG is less irritating that PG under occlusion, but that delayed contact allergic reactions may occur. PMID- 2529100 TI - Detection of contact hypersensitivity to topical corticosteroids with hydrocortisone-17-butyrate. AB - We showed earlier that most patients with contact dermatitis due to corticosteroids show cross-reactions when patch tested with hydrocortisone-17 butyrate (H-17-B). To test whether H-17-B could be used for detecting topical corticosteroid allergy, we screened patients undergoing routine patch testing with H-17-B. Patients with clearly allergic or doubtful/mildly irritant patch test reactions to H-17-B, and with a history suggesting topical corticosteroid allergy, were further tested with a large panel of steroid preparations. 20 out of 4039 patients (0.5%) showed definite allergic test reactions to corticosteroids. A further 165 patients with clinically suspected corticosteroid allergy were directly tested with a panel of steroid preparations; 14 patients showed positive patch test reactions. Altogether, 33 out of 34 patients with corticosteroid allergy had positive test reactions to H-17-B. Inclusion of 1.0% H 17-B in ethanol in the standard patch test series improves the diagnosis of topical corticosteroid hypersensitivity. PMID- 2529101 TI - Occupational contact dermatitis from pyrocatechol. PMID- 2529102 TI - Balloon angioplasty and valvuloplasty in infants, children, and adolescents. PMID- 2529103 TI - Seborrheic keratosis with possible central regression. AB - We describe a case of suspected superficial-type basal cell epithelioma. However, it showed the histologic features of pigmented seborrheic keratosis and, on the basis of the clinical and histologic findings and the developmental course, was presumed to have undergone central regression. Mononuclear cell inflammation was considered to be involved in the regression. PMID- 2529104 TI - Extracorporeal circulation influence on plasma atrial natriuretic peptide concentration in cardiac surgery patients. AB - An attempt was made to clarify the change of plasma human atrial natriuretic peptide (hANP) concentration before, during, and after cardiac surgery in heart failure with extracorporeal circulation. Plasma hANP concentration did not significantly decrease during total aortic cross clamping (ACC) with complete clamping of the superior and inferior vena cavae. This finding may be explained by the suppression of endopeptidase activities and the response of hANP receptors due to the low body temperature. Plasma hANP concentration strongly increased from 56.6 +/- 8.4 to 208.9 +/- 40.7 pg/ml (n = 5) by the release of total ACC. This strong increase of hANP in the plasma may occur due to the rapid increase of atrial pressure from zero to 12.5 mm Hg caused by releasing the total ACC. The molecular form of plasma hANP obtained after the release of total ACC was alpha hANP alone, which was estimated by gel permeation chromatography and reverse HPLC. PMID- 2529105 TI - Effect of salbutamol, ipratropium bromide and cromolyn sodium on prostaglandin F2 alpha-induced bronchospasm. AB - We studied the effects of salbutamol, ipratropium bromide and cromolyn sodium on PGF2 alpha-induced bronchospasm in ten patients with asthma. Initially, the bronchial reactivity to IC-PGF2 alpha and the DP20-PGF2 alpha were determined. Recalculations were made two days later and again 1 h after administration of various drugs given on different days. Salbutamol and ipratropium bromide induced significant bronchodilation and of similar magnitude 1 h after administration. On the day salbutamol was given, surface area under the dose-response curve to PGF2 alpha was significantly higher and the final drop of FEV1 significantly lower than those observed on days when placebo, ipratropium bromide and cromolyn sodium were given. No differences among these values were found for placebo, ipratropium bromide and cromolyn sodium. Thus, beta 2 stimulants attenuate significantly PGF2 alpha-induced bronchospasm, while ipratropium bromide and cromolyn sodium do not have protective effect. PMID- 2529106 TI - Bronchoscopic localization and treatment of occult lung cancer. AB - The flexible fiberoptic bronchoscope is currently the standard tool for localization of radiographically occult carcinomas of the tracheobronchial tree. It allows direct inspection of proximal airways and can establish the location of most occult lung cancers. A small percentage of patients present with bronchoscopically as well as radiographically occult carcinoma, particularly challenging because definitive localizations is required before a therapeutic plan can be outlined. Selective cytologic brushing of each lobar segment, taking random biopsy specimens, has been used to assist in localization of these early cancers. Recently, fluorescent compounds have been used to assist in localizing early lung cancers and in the treatment of radiographically occult carcinoma. We review the current methods of bronchoscopic localization and treatment of radiographically occult lung cancer. PMID- 2529107 TI - Leukosialin, a major sialoglycoprotein defining leucocyte differentiation. AB - We have isolated a major sialoglycoprotein on leucocytes and found that this glycoprotein, termed leukosialin, is ubiquitously present on various human leucocytes (granulocytes, monocytes/macrophages and T lymphocytes). Our studies showed that leukosialin is significantly glycosylated by O-linked oligosaccharides (70 chains/molecule). The polypeptide portions of these molecules are, however, apparently the same, with a molecular mass of 38.5 kDa. The amino acid sequence derived from cDNA shows tandemly repeated O-glycan attachment sequences, and about 70% of the serine or threonine residues in the external domain are modified by O-glycans. The structures of those O-linked oligosaccharides are characteristic of each cell lineage and maturation stage. In particular, we have shown that O-glycans of leukosialin are converted from NeuAc(alpha 2-3)Gal(beta 1-3) [NeuAc(alpha 2-6)]-GalNAc to NeuAc(alpha 2 3)Gal(beta 1-3) [NeuAc(alpha 2-3)Gal(beta 1-4)GlcNAc(beta 1-6)] GalNAc during T cell activation. PMID- 2529108 TI - Effect of selective 5HT3 antagonist (GR 38032F) on small intestinal transit and release of gastrointestinal peptides. AB - Antagonists of 5-hydroxytryptamine type 3 (5HT3) receptors reduce the nausea induced by cisplatinum, but the effects of these agents on 5HT3 receptors in the human gut remain to be defined. We examined the actions of one of these drugs (Glaxo GR 38032F) on small intestinal transit and mouth-to-cecum transit times in healthy man. We also quantified its effects on the release of peptide YY (PYY), neurotensin, human pancreatic polypeptide, gastrin-cholecystokinin, and motilin. Ten healthy volunteers were enrolled in a randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled crossover study. Following a single intravenous dose of GR 38032F (0.15 mg/kg), we measured the time to appearance in plasma of sulfapyridine after injection of salicylazosulfapyridine into the duodenum. This was used as a measure of duodenocecal transit. The appearance of hydrogen in breath after ingestion of a meal containing lactulose was also correspondingly used to quantify the mouth-to-cecum transit of the "head" of the meal. Gastrointestinal hormones were assayed in plasma by specific RIAs; samples were drawn fasting (10 min after injection) and after breakfast (358 calories: 15.7 g protein, 55.4 g carbohydrate, 8.1 g fat). The postprandial integrated response and peak release of PYY was decreased by GR 38032F. There was also a trend for the peak release of neurotensin to be reduced. GR 38032F did not significantly alter small intestinal transit times or mouth-to-cecum transit times. We conclude that GR 38032F does not have a major effect on small intestinal transit in health. PMID- 2529109 TI - Employment spectrum of IDDM. AB - Occupational issues in 158 insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) individuals and 158 matched nondiabetic siblings were examined in a case-control design to evaluate the role of diabetes in the employability of people with IDDM. Overall, the IDDM cases were more likely to report refusal for a job at some point in their lives (56 vs. 42%, P = .02) than were the nondiabetic control siblings. Surprisingly, individuals who told job interviewers about their diabetes were more likely to report job refusal than their siblings (64 vs. 42%, P = .005), whereas individuals who did not mention their diabetes reported rates of refusal similar to their siblings (44 vs. 41%). IDDM cases were also less likely to be employed full time compared with siblings (55 vs. 73%, P = .001). Reduced employment in IDDM respondents was related to work disability. Reported work disability was more than seven times greater in the IDDM than the sibling group. The presence of diabetic complications was the primary factor related to work disability. Although 13% of IDDM respondents were unable to work because of disability, absenteeism among IDDM cases currently working did not differ from that of the nondiabetic siblings. Diabetes was not significantly associated with career levels or household income levels reported by the IDDM group. Disability, however, had a strong detrimental influence on these variables. The results suggest that hiring practices by employers may still be discriminatory toward individuals with IDDM. Once hired, the employment experiences of the IDDM population appear to be similar to the experiences of the nondiabetic population, provided the development of disabling diabetic complications has not taken place. PMID- 2529110 TI - [An experimental study of excimer laser angioplasty in vitro]. AB - Intratube thrombus and in vitro intraarterial thrombus and isolated normal pig aortic wall were radiated by excimer laser with wavelength of 308 nm and pulse width of 20 ns. The single pulse energy and the numbers of pulses were varied at the constant beam size and pulse frequency and the results were studied by micrometer measurement and histological examination. The results show: (1) excimer laser can effectively ablate thrombus. With constant total energy (at the range from 10 to 50 J), the depth of vaporized thrombus was nonlinearly proportional to the single pulse energy. But with constant single pulse energy (at the range from 10-100m J), the depth of vaporized thrombus was in linear proportion to the numbers of pulses; (2) if coaxial position of laser beam with blood vessel was maintained, thrombus can be effectively vaporized without arterial wall damage; (3) the incision produced by excimer laser has microscopically precise edges: there is no evidence of thermal injury and adjacent tissue is unaffected. Our conclusion is that excimer laser can be used safely and effectively in angioplasty. It may be mainly by photochemical effect that excimer laser ablates organic tissue. PMID- 2529111 TI - [Percutaneous aortic balloon angioplasty and follow-up study on its effect]. PMID- 2529112 TI - [Regional chemotherapy of liver metastases in colorectal carcinoma. Intra arterial vs intravenous plus intra-arterial therapy]. AB - Regional chemotherapy with floxuridine was undertaken in 50 patients (32 men and 18 women, mean age 57 years) with colorectal carcinoma with metastases only to the liver. In 25 patients (group I) the drug (0.2 mg/kg) was administered exclusively intraarterially into the hepatic artery, while in the remaining 25 (group II) it was given both intraarterially (0.21 mg/kg) and intravenously (0.09 mg/kg) via the inferior vena cava. The remission rate in group I was 56% (14 of 25), in group II it was 64% (16 of 25). It was subsequently discovered that 4 of the 25 in group II already had extrahepatic metastases at the time of implantation of the infusion catheter. The difference in remission rate between the two groups is not significant. Extrahepatic tumour recurrence occurred after a median period of 16 months in 17 patients of group I (68%) and six of 21 of group II (29%, P less than 0.01). Over an observation period of 34 months the survival rates of the two groups were not significantly different. However, these results suggest that over a longer period a higher survival rate is to be expected for the intraarterially plus intravenously treated group. PMID- 2529113 TI - [Suppressor activity of bone marrow and spleen cells in C57Bl/6 mice during carcinogenesis induced by 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene]. AB - The nonspecific suppressor activity of bone marrow cells (BMC) and spleen cells (SC) of C57B1/6 mice was studied at 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene-induced carcinogenesis. It is established that in the latent period of the tumour development and with its appearance the suppressor activity of BMC decreases, while SC-increases. The activity of the BMC suppressor factor which is determined by the inhibition of proliferation of mastocytoma P-815 cells in vitro did not change significantly. PMID- 2529114 TI - [Characteristics of cellular immunosuppression models of allotransplantation reactions]. AB - Two developed experimental models based on induction of suppression by alloantigens in mice and on testing of its effect on the level of proliferative immune reaction during systemic or local adoptive transfer of spleen suppressor cells to syngeneic mice were used. Formation of immunosuppressive mechanisms has been shown to depend on alloantigen (H-2, Mls) properties. Dynamics of suppression development, a degree of its specificity, role of T cells and macrophages in suppression and sensitivity to cyclophosphamide were studied. The possibility to employ the proposed models in the studies of immunosuppression peculiarities during tumour development is considered. PMID- 2529115 TI - [ICO-35 monoclonal antibodies to the antigen of acute lymphoblastic leukemia]. AB - ICO-35 monoclonal antibodies (Mabs) were produced following BALB/c mouse immunization with peripheral blood cells from a patient with lymphoid type of chronic myeloid leukemia in blast crisis (SML BC) ICO-35. Mabs detect antigen on CD10-positive cells from patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, CML BC, CD10 positive cells of Reh line and are not bound to other cells. Comparative studies of reactivity of ICO-35 and K 503 Mabs to CD10 antigen revealed their similarity. However, in contrast to K503 ICO-35 Mabs do not react with granulocytes. PMID- 2529116 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide and its messenger ribonucleic acid in overloaded and overload-released ventricles of rat. AB - To study the occurrence of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) in overloaded ventricles, suprarenal aortic coarctation was performed on adult rats (n = 60) to induce overloaded left ventricle. In 36 rats, the overloads were released in 2 weeks. The hearts (6 rats in each group) were examined 2, 7, and 14 days after overload and 2, 7, 19, 47, and 77 days after overload release. Another group of 6 rats was coarctated for the second time for 1-6 days after 14 days of coarctation and 7 days of release. ANP immunoreactivity was examined by light and electron microscopic immunocytochemistry. ANP mRNA was studied by RNA-RNA tissue in situ hybridization. ANP immunoreactivity and ANP mRNA were found in the left ventricle 2 days after coarctation, and their amounts increased in proportion to the intraventricular pressure and the duration of coarctation. Two days after release, ANP and its mRNA began to decrease, but at 77 days ANP-containing granules still existed in the ventricular myocytes, whereas its mRNA became undetectable. The second coarctation triggered the release of the remaining ventricular ANP from the first overload and induced another cycle of increased ANP synthesis. Specific granules that do not contain ANP were found in overload released ventricles, indicating the possible existence of other peptide hormones. These findings suggest that the extents of ventricular ANP gene expression and ANP synthesis and release are regulated by intraventricular pressure, and the occurrence of ANP in overloaded ventricles may not be a transient, immediately reversible phenomenon. PMID- 2529117 TI - Leucine zipper structure of the protein CRE-BP1 binding to the cyclic AMP response element in brain. AB - By screening a lambda gt11 library with the multimerized sequence of the cAMP response element (CRE), we isolated human clones encoding the CRE binding protein, CRE-BP1, from a human brain cDNA library. CRE-BP1 expressed in Escherichia coli bound not only to the CRE element of the somatostatin and fibronectin genes, but also to the CRE element of the adenovirus E4 gene, suggesting that the protein was not distinguishable from the adenovirus transcription factor, ATF. The human CRE-BP1 clone encoded a 54.5 kd protein similar at its carboxy terminus to the leucine zipper motifs found in other enhancer binding proteins such as C/EBP and c-jun/AP-1. CRE-BP1 mRNA was expressed in all of the cells examined and was abundant in brain. The structure of CRE-BP1 and its recognition elements suggest that cellular response to extracellular stimuli is controlled by a family of transcription factors that bind to related cis-active elements and that contain several highly conserved domains. PMID- 2529118 TI - The adenovirus E1B 55 kd protein influences mRNA transport via an intranuclear effect on RNA metabolism. AB - The adenovirus type 5 early region 1B encodes a 55 kd polypeptide that functions after transcription and processing to facilitate cytoplasmic accumulation of late viral mRNAs during lytic infection. A virus, dl338, carrying a deletion within the coding region for the 55 kd product, was found to be cold-sensitive for growth. Accumulation of late viral mRNAs was more severely inhibited at 32 than at 37 degrees C in dl338-infected cells. The metabolism of late viral transcripts was analysed within the nucleus of dl338-infected cells at 32 degrees C. Late viral mRNAs failed to accumulate efficiently within a nuclear compartment defined by specific RNA extraction conditions. Normally, RNA accumulated within this operationally defined compartment after leaving the nuclear matrix and before associating with the nuclear envelope. These results indicate that the 55 kd polypeptide encoded by early region 1B facilitates an intranuclear step in the metabolism of viral mRNAs, resulting in improved transport of these RNAs to the cytoplasm. PMID- 2529120 TI - A comparison of two methods to measure coronary flow reserve in the setting of coronary angioplasty: intracoronary blood flow velocity measurements with a Doppler catheter, and digital subtraction cineangiography. AB - Intracoronary blood flow velocity measurements with a Doppler balloon catheter and the radiographic assessment of myocardial perfusion with contrast media, before and after the intracoronary administration of papaverine, have previously been used to investigate regional coronary flow reserve. In the present study we applied both techniques in 21 patients to measure coronary flow reserve in the setting of coronary angioplasty. Pre-angioplasty (N = 14) and post-angioplasty (N = 19) measurements of coronary flow reserve were obtained by digital subtraction cineangiography in the myocardial region supplied by the dilated coronary artery, and with the Doppler probe in the proximal part of the dilated vessel. The reactive hyperaemia following the final balloon inflation was recorded with the Doppler balloon catheter still positioned across the stenotic lesion. Coronary stenosis geometry was quantified with the Cardiovascular Angiography Analysis System. When the epicardial stenosis was the only factor causing a reduction in coronary flow reserve, flow reserve measured with both digital subtraction cineangiography and with the Doppler probe correlated well with the cross sectional area at the site of obstruction, r = 0.88, SEE = 0.36 and r = 0.77, SEE = 0.45 respectively. In contrast, when other factors decreasing coronary flow reserve were present (intimal dissection, left ventricular hypertrophy, previous myocardial infarction, collaterals) measurements obtained with both techniques correlated poorly with cross-sectional area (r = 0.55, SEE = 0.57, and r = 0.59, SEE = 0.50). Flow reserve measurements obtained with digital subtraction cineangiography correlated well with the measurements obtained with the Doppler probe (r = 0.85, SEE = 0.38, and r = 0.87, SEE = 0.34), although the two approaches have methodologically nothing in common and their respective regions of interest (myocardium for the radiographic technique and intracoronary lumen for the Doppler technique) are basically different. Furthermore, the reactive hyperaemia following the final balloon inflation was related to the flow reserve measured with both the angiographic technique (r = 0.85, SEE = 0.34) and the Doppler technique (r = 0.83, SEE = 0.32) using pharmacologically induced coronary vasodilation with intracoronary papaverine. This suggests that the same quantity of coronary flow reserve that can be recruited pharmacologically can be recruited by ischaemia following a transluminal occlusion. PMID- 2529119 TI - Transcriptional activation of bacteriophage lambda DNA replication in vitro: regulatory role of histone-like protein HU of Escherichia coli. AB - Initiation of bacteriophage lambda DNA replication in vivo and in crude in vitro systems is strongly dependent on transcription at or near the lambda replication origin (ori lambda). Through its capacity to prevent RNA polymerase-mediated 'transcriptional activation' of lambda DNA replication, the lambda cI repressor is capable of negatively regulating initiation of lambda DNA replication, even when all required replication proteins are present. Surprisingly, the strict requirement for transcriptional activation of lambda DNA replication was lost when lambda replication was initiated in an in vitro system composed of nine purified replication proteins [Mensa-Wilmot et al. (1989) J. Biol. Chem., 264, 2853-2861]. We have found that crude extracts of Escherichia coli contain proteins that are capable of restoring the physiological linkage between transcription and ori lambda-dependent replication when they are added to the nine-protein replication system. The protein primarily responsible for this effect has been purified and identified as protein HU, a histone-like protein that is a major constituent of the bacterial nucleoid. HU, when present at a 1:1 weight ratio with supercoiled ori lambda plasmid, is a potent inhibitor of lambda DNA replication in the nine-protein replication system. However, when the ori lambda template is transcribed by E. coli RNA polymerase, the HU-mediated inhibition of lambda DNA replication is abolished. HU does not inhibit propagation of lambda replication forks. Instead, HU apparently interferes with the assembly or function of nucleoprotein structures containing the E. coli DnaB helicase that are formed at ori lambda prior to priming and DNA synthesis. We suggest that the chromatin structure of the template DNA in the region surrounding ori lambda plays a central role in the negative regulation of the initiation of lambda DNA replication in vivo. PMID- 2529121 TI - Tolerance induction in the organ-cultured thymus lobes upon intimate contact with allogeneic thymus lobes. AB - In an organ-cultured murine fetus thymus, precursor cytotoxic T lymphocytes (pCTL) specific for alloantigens developed successfully but those reactive with self antigens were eliminated. In attempting to dissect the mechanism of self tolerance, intrathymic chimera was made by culturing two genetically disparate thymuses in close contact with each other (parabiosis of thymuses). This maneuver resulted in the induction of specific and mutual CTL tolerance. It seems that CTL tolerance was induced by clonal deletion but not by active suppression. Since 2' deoxyguanosine treatment abolished the tolerogenic capability of the thymus, hemopoietic cells capable of migrating to and fro in the parabiotic thymuses are thought to be responsible for tolerance induction. Induction of CTL tolerance was dependent on the maturation stages of T cells in the thymus: T cells in 5-day-, but not in 7-day-cultured thymuses were susceptible to tolerance induction, indicating that T cells expressing T cell receptors at low density are susceptible to tolerance induction. PMID- 2529122 TI - cDNA cloning of functional T cell receptor gamma/delta chains expressed in human peripheral blood lymphocytes. AB - We have identified in earlier studies two V delta rearrangements corresponding to a 4.5-kb Eco RI fragment detected with a V delta1 probe and to a 7-kb Eco RI band detected with a V delta2 probe. These rearrangements have been found in two human T cell clones, F6C7 and G6, displaying surface phenotypes unfrequent in human peripheral blood, namely Ti gamma A+ BB3- (F6C7) and Ti gamma A- BB3+ (G6). Herein, we report the sequences of the functional transcripts encoded by these rearranged genes and show that the 4.5- and the 7-kb Eco RI fragments correspond to V1/D3/J delta 3 and to V2/D3/J delta 3 recombinations, respectively. In addition, we have sequenced the V2/D3/J1/C delta transcripts expressed in two clones, AB12 and VTC, which have a Ti gamma A+ BB3+ surface phenotype corresponding to that of most gamma/delta peripheral lymphocytes. Analyses of the delta transcripts expressed by these four cells further strengthen the hypothesis that anti-BB3 and anti-delta-TCS-1 monoclonal antibodies recognize a V delta 2- and a V1/(D)/J delta 1-encoded epitope, respectively. Sequence of the gamma transcripts expressed by AB12 and F6C7 cells shows that they encode a V9/JP/C gamma 1 chain. Finally, we confirm that non-combinatorial diversity in the gamma and delta proteins is generated by both junctional flexibility and N-region addition without any somatic mutation. PMID- 2529123 TI - Non-random expression of T cell receptor gamma and delta variable gene segments in functional T lymphocyte clones from human peripheral blood. AB - Human T cell receptor (TcR) gamma delta displays a variety of protein forms. Disulfide-linked (type 1) or non disulfide-linked (type 2) receptors occur, with gamma chains encoded by the C gamma 1 or the C gamma 2 gene segment, respectively. Exon 2 of C gamma 2 may either be duplicated or triplicated (type 2a or 2b receptors). TcR gamma chains differ in molecular mass and charge between type 1 and type 2 receptors. The delta chains as well as the gamma chains have different structural properties between receptor types. This cannot be due to the use of different C delta gene segments, since the genome encodes only one. To understand the genetic basis of this dichotomy in gamma/delta combinations, rearrangement and expression of V gamma, J gamma, C gamma and V delta gene segments were determined in TcR gamma/delta+ clones derived randomly from peripheral blood of normal donors. Most clones used C gamma 1, a minority C gamma 2. The different protein properties of receptor types could be explained by the non-random expression of V gamma (J gamma) and V delta gene segments. Type 1 receptors preferentially used gamma chains encoded by the V gamma 9 and J gamma 1.2 gene segments together with delta chains encoded by V delta 2. In type 2a receptors, V gamma 9 was not predominant; often other V gamma gene segments were employed, but then in high frequency in coordination with V delta 1. Reactivity of the clones with monoclonal antibodies anti-Ti gamma A, BB3 and delta-TCS-1 correlated with the expression of the V gamma 9, V delta 2 and V delta 1 gene segments, respectively. Therefore, V gamma and V delta use in TcR gamma/delta+ cells from peripheral blood of eight healthy individuals, including the two donors of the clones, could be determined tentatively by double immunofluorescence. Indeed, the V gamma 9-V delta 2 combination was predominant, while the V gamma 9-V delta 1 and particularly the V gamma 9-"V delta other" combination was rare. These data indicate that the TcR gamma delta repertoire in peripheral blood of normal individuals is largely dependent on junctional diversity and suggest that selection of receptors occurs. PMID- 2529124 TI - Characterization of three functional sites in alpha beta 1 DR of DRw13. All three sites are potentially involved in major histocompatibility complex-peptide interaction. AB - An HLA-DR product encoded by the HLA-DRw13/Dw19 haplotype has been identified as the HLA class II molecule involved in antigen presentation to several influenza specific helper T cell clones. Three different functional sites were identified on this molecule by comparing the structure of HLA-DR products of known sequences and their ability to efficiently present foreign antigen to the T cell clones. These functional sites were mapped on the recently proposed three-dimensional structure of HLA class II molecules. From their position, these sites are all potentially involved in HLA-peptide interaction and capable of affecting the binding and/or the conformation of the foreign peptide. This suggests that polymorphic residues essential in major histocompatibility complex restriction are mostly involved in peptide binding. PMID- 2529125 TI - Identification of interleukin 4 receptor-associated proteins and expression of both high- and low-affinity binding on human lymphoid cells. AB - Interleukin 4 (IL4) produced by activated T cells expresses its biological effects on T and B lymphocytes by binding to specific membrane receptors. Cross linking of human recombinant 125I-IL4 to peripheral blood mononuclear cells identifies a trimolecular complex consisting of a 65/70-kDa doublet and a 110-kDa protein. Scatchard analysis reveals about 300 IL4 binding sites/cell on resting cells with an equilibrium binding constant (Kd) of approximately 100 pM. Stimulation by anti-CD3 antibodies causes an up-regulation of IL4 receptors by a factor of 2 to 3 without any change in binding affinity. In addition to this high affinity binding site a second class of a previously unidentified, low-affinity receptor (Kd approximately 30 nM, approximately 9000 sites/cell) is expressed on resting lymphocytes. The number of low-affinity binding sites for IL 4 also increases twofold upon cell activation. Exogenous IL 4 enhances the expression of its receptor on resting lymphocytes and this effect is further increased by anti CD3 activation. Binding of IL4 to its receptor is specific, being only inhibited by IL 4 and not by IL2. By contrast, the gibbon leukemia cell line MLA 144 expresses only high-affinity receptors for IL4. Cross-linking studies reveal a 45/50-kDa IL 4 receptor-associated doublet in addition to the three proteins identified in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The functional significance of the different proteins composing the receptor for IL4 is discussed. PMID- 2529126 TI - Embryonic neural cell adhesion molecules on human natural killer cells. AB - The neural cell adhesion molecules (NCAM) are surface glycoproteins that were first described in brain tissue. NCAM mediate adhesion in a variety of cell-cell interactions. In the present study we show that the so-called "embryonic" NCAM, i.e., the highly polysialylated forms of these proteins, are expressed on natural killer cells and some CD3+ cells in man. Homotypic binding of NCAM, believed to be of importance for cell-cell adhesion in neural tissues, appears not to be essential for NK cell-mediated killing. Yet, NCAM might be involved in NK cell migration, homing or related functions. PMID- 2529127 TI - Human complement factor H: an additional gene product of 43 kDa isolated from human plasma shows cofactor activity for the cleavage of the third component of complement. AB - In addition to the 150-kDa factor H protein, we have previously described a 43 kDa factor H molecule in human plasma, which probably represents a translational product of the additional 1.8-kb mRNA for factor H. This factor H was isolated from human plasma by means of immunoaffinity chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography. When tested for its functional activity, this purified 43 kDa H protein was shown to act as cofactor for factor I- mediated cleavage of fluid-phase C3b to iC3b. PMID- 2529128 TI - Functional changes in potassium channels in aortas from rats with streptozotocin induced diabetes. AB - The effects of K+ activators on aortas from control and diabetic rats were examined. The concentration-response curves for the relaxant effects of cromakalim were shifted to the right in diabetic rats. The relaxation responses of diabetic aortas to nicorandil did not differ from those of the controls. Treatment with oxyhemoglobin significantly reduced the relaxation responses to nicorandil in aortas from diabetic rats. It appears that the activity of aortic potassium channels is reduced in diabetic rats. PMID- 2529129 TI - Regional brain distribution of [18F]GBR 13119, a dopamine uptake inhibitor, in CD 1 and C57BL/6 mice. AB - We have examined the regional brain distribution of [18F]GBR 13119 (18F: beta +, T1/2 = 110 min), a dopamine uptake inhibitor, in CD-1 and C57BL/6 mice. High levels of binding are observed in the striatum of both species, with striatum/cerebellum ratios of 3-4 at 60 min after injection of the radiotracer. Striatum radioactivity and striatum/cerebellum ratios are more than 50% reduced in C57BL/6 mice treated chronically with the neurotoxin MPTP. We conclude mice are an appropriate model for the in vivo study of the dopamine uptake system, and that [18F]GBR 13119 may be a suitable in vivo marker for degeneration of striatal dopaminergic neurons. PMID- 2529130 TI - Rat atrial natriuretic peptide stimulates K+ fluxes in human erythrocytes. AB - Ouabain- and bumetanide-resistant potassium fluxes were measured in human erythrocytes incubated in a medium containing calcium and a calcium ionophore. Pharmacological concentrations of rat atrial natriuretic peptide stimulated these fluxes. Although human erythrocytes lack atrial natriuretic peptide receptors, our results suggest that the hormone can modify transmembrane K+ movements. PMID- 2529131 TI - Occupational health problems and adverse patient reactions in orthodontics. AB - The purpose of the present investigation was to study the nature and frequency of adverse reactions to materials and procedures among orthodontists and their patients. A questionnaire about this topic was mailed to practicing members of the Norwegian Orthodontic Society, of which 137 (about 75%) responded together with 127 chairside assistants. About half of the orthodontic personnel had experienced adverse reactions. The majority of the problems were dermatoses, comprising dryness, redness, itching, thickening, reduced tactile sensitivity, fissuring, soreness/desquamation and pain of hands and fingers. The residual were respiratory reactions, eye reactions or reactions of a general nature. Many of the dermatoses were of moderate severity, attributed to (seasonal) air/ventilation associated problems. Other frequent causes were hand washing procedures, work involving composites and acrylics (orthodontists), or work involving model materials, alcoholic disinfectants, latex gloves, alignates etc. (assistants). For both groups the most severe dermatological reactions were associated with unspecified allergies, acrylics and composites. Non dermatological reactions also reflected the different working pattern and exposure to materials in orthodontics; acrylic monomer topping the list. The orthodontists had observed 425 patients with dermal reactions and 67 patients with intraoral/systemic reactions, indicating a prevalence of about 1 per cent. Dermal reactions included redness, eczema, itching and fissuring in facial, neck or perioral areas, mostly attributed to metallic parts of extraoral appliances, with some exceptions (elastics, neck pillows, head caps). Intraoral reactions consisted of redness, soreness and swelling of the oral mucosa, gingiva and/or lips and were associated with metal brackets, labial wires, bonding procedures or acrylic appliances. PMID- 2529132 TI - Evidence of endoplasmic reticulum-related Ca2+ ATPase in human microvascular endothelial cells. AB - We have demonstrated by immunological and molecular methods the presence of a reticulum endoplasmic-related Ca2+-ATPase in human omental microvascular endothelial cells (HOME cells). HOME cells reacted positively with a previously characterized sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase antibody as demonstrated by indirect immunofluorescence. Western blotting revealed that the antibody recognized a 95-100 kDa protein. 35S-Metabolic labeling led to the detection of a similar protein with which the purified sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase competed. Dot-blotting experiments indicated that a substantial amount of Ca2+ ATPase was present in HOME cell membranes. In addition, Northern blot analysis using a cDNA probe from cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum showed the presence of mRNA species of 4-kb. As these experiments were conducted in comparison with cell types with well-defined Ca2+-ATPase in HOME cells. PMID- 2529133 TI - Opsin distribution and synthesis in degenerating photoreceptors of rd mutant mice. AB - The distribution of opsin and the capacity of photoreceptors to synthesize opsin was studied in retinas of mice bearing the rd (retinal degeneration) mutation and compared to control normal mice. Opsin was localized by means of pre-embedding and post-embedding immunocytochemistry and electron microscopy. Cones were identified with anti-cone antibodies and peanut agglutinin lectin which labels cone matrix sheaths. Opsin synthesis was measured by incorporation of [35S]methionine into opsin which was detected by immunoblots. Immunocytochemistry revealed that degeneration of rod outer segments was accompanied by accumulation of opsin in the plasma membrane enveloping the inner segment, nuclei and synaptic terminals. Rod photoreceptors degenerated faster than cones. By post-natal day 19 (P19), 87% of the remaining inner segments were cones. Opsin synthesis in rd mice could no longer be measured after P15. However, opsin molecules could be detected both by immunocytochemistry and immunoblotting up to P30. Between P20 and P30 all detectable opsin was localized in the plasma membrane which envelopes nuclei and synaptic terminals. Unlabeled surviving nuclei after P30 are probably cones. The opsin which is detected in rod inner segment plasma membranes might be derived, by back diffusion, from degenerating outer segments and represent molecules synthesized at an earlier time. Alternatively opsin accumulation might be a result of low levels of opsin synthesis, undetectable by [35S]methionine incorporation, which continues in the absence of outer segments. PMID- 2529135 TI - Theileria parva: bovine helper T cell clones specific for both infected lymphocytes and schizont membrane antigens. AB - Two Theileria parva-specific bovine helper T cell clones were used to identify T. parva-derived antigens expressed on the surface of schizont infected lymphoblastoid cells. Although the clones proliferated in response to both the immunizing (Muguga) and heterologous stocks of T. parva, the patterns of the responses differed, showing that the two clones recognized different antigenic epitopes. Both clones were stimulated by autologous infected cells, without an additional source of antigen-presenting cells, as well as by purified schizonts and by a subcellular membrane fraction prepared from infected lymphoblastoid cells, when antigen-presenting cells were present. The membrane fraction was shown to be enriched for schizont membranes as indicated by the presence of a schizont surface antigen detected by immunoblotting using a schizont-specific monoclonal antibody. Elimination of schizonts with the anti-theilerial drug, parvaquone, resulted in reduced antigenicity of the membrane fraction as detected by both the T cell clones and the schizont-specific monoclonal antibody. We conclude that the T. parva-infected cell surface antigens recognized by the T cell clones are of schizont membrane origin. Although the antigens have not yet been characterized biochemically, the monoclonal antibody-specific epitope appears to be distinguishable from the T cell epitopes. PMID- 2529134 TI - Dopamine D1 heteroreceptors on striatonigral axons are not stimulated by endogeneous dopamine either tonically or after amphetamine: evidence from terminal excitability. AB - The role of dopamine D1 heteroreceptors located on the axon terminals of striatonigral neurons was investigated. Local infusion of the direct acting, specific dopamine D1 agonist, R-SKF 38393, into the substantia nigra terminal field of antidromically identified neostriatal projection neurons decreased the electrical excitability of these axons. This effect was dose-dependent and could be partially reversed by subsequent infusion of the specific D1 antagonist, R-SCH 23390. In contrast, excitability was not affected by the systemic administration of SCH-23390 (0.3 and 0.6 mg/kg, iv), or the non-specific antagonist haloperidol (0.2 mg/kg, iv). Since activation of the D1 heterorecptors by R-SKF 38393 decreased excitability, the inability of these antagonists to modify excitability indicates that endogenous dopamine does not tonically activate these receptors. Systemic administration of the indirect acting agonist, amphetamine (1.0 and 5.0 mg/kg, iv) also failed to change terminal excitability suggesting that, even when unnaturally high levels of dopamine are released in the substantia nigra, endogenous dopamine does not affect neostriatal axons terminating in the substantia nigra. Thus it is unlikely that endogeneous dopamine modulates neostriatal control of the substantia nigra through these presynaptic terminal D1 heteroreceptors. PMID- 2529136 TI - Observations on phage-typing of Clostridium difficile: preliminary evaluation of a phage panel. AB - Of the various methods now employed to type Clostridium difficile, the performance of the phage-typing, as proposed by Sell et al., was investigated on a large collection of isolates from various local epidemiological settings. Because those isolates appeared in preliminary trials mostly resistant to the reference phages, the panel was enlarged by including newly isolated phages. The new set was redundant but better suited to the purpose: out of 287 phage sensitivity patterns 8.4% only were resistant in comparison to the 67.6% resistant to the reference one. PMID- 2529137 TI - Elastase released from human granulocytes stimulated with N-formyl-chemotactic peptide prevents activation of tumor cell prourokinase (pro-uPA). AB - Proteolytic enzymes released from granulocytes upon stimulation with the chemotactic N-formyl peptide FNLPNTL (in the presence of cytochalasin B) prevented activation of tumor cell single-chain urokinase-type plasminogen activator (pro-uPA) by plasmin. Elastase was identified by the use of eglin C (elastase inhibitor) and a monoclonal antibody to elastase as the functional proteolytic enzyme in granulocyte supernatants. Action of purified granulocyte elastase on pro-uPA generated enzymatically inactive two-chain uPA linked by disulfide bridges which was indistinguishable by SDS-PAGE from plasmin-generated HMW-uPA. The major elastase cleavage site in pro-uPA was located between Ile159 and Ile160. a minor one between Thr165 and Thr166. Elastase cannot substitute for plasmin in the proteolytic activation of pro-uPA to enzymatically active HMW-uPA. However, when pro-uPA was first activated by plasmin to form enzymatically active HMW-uPA, this enzymatic activity was not impaired by subsequent elastase treatment. PMID- 2529138 TI - Expression of the cDNA encoding lipocortin-like 39 kDa protein of guinea pig neutrophils in yeast. Purification and biological characterization. AB - The cDNA encoding lipocortin-like 39 kDa protein in guinea pig neutrophils was cloned into a yeast expression vector and the constructed plasmid was introduced into a yeast. The gene was expressed in an eukaryotic cell, yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and the recombinant protein was purified and characterized. The purified protein was identical with the native one with respect to the antigenicity and several biochemical properties, such as inhibitory action against phospholipase A2, Ca2+-dependent binding to acidic-phospholipids and F actin and availability as a substrate for tyrosine kinase (EGF receptor/kinase) and protein kinase C. PMID- 2529139 TI - Messenger RNA encoding the D2 dopaminergic receptor detected by in situ hybridization histochemistry in rat brain. AB - A 30 base synthetic oligonucleotide probe was used to detect the mRNA encoding the rat D2 dopaminergic receptor. On Northern analysis, the probe identified a single species of mRNA of approximately 2.9 kb, present at highest levels in the striatum but also found in the brainstem, neocortex and diencephalon. On sections, neurons containing high levels of the mRNA were detected in the striatum, the substantia nigra pars compacta and the ventral tegmental area. Lower levels of signal were seen over neurons in the hypothalamus, the frontal neocortex, and the globus pallidus. PMID- 2529140 TI - Improved resolution in 1H-detected 1H-15N correlation experiments. AB - The determination of protein structure by NMR is restricted at molecular masses above 10 kDa by overlapping resonances. One way of overcoming this problem is to label the protein with 15N. The conventional way to record 15N spectra is to use heteronuclear multiple-quantum coherence. We present here an alternative approach based on 15N single-quantum coherence. This is shown to have substantial advantages over the multiple-quantum method, including better F1 resolution. PMID- 2529141 TI - Irreversible binding of bacteriophage T5 to its FhuA receptor protein is associated with covalent cross-linking of 3 copies of tail protein pb4. AB - Irreversible binding of bacteriophage T5 to its FhuA receptor protein is characterized by a high activation energy, typical for reactions where covalent bonds are formed [Zarnitz, M.L. and Weidel, W. (1963) Z. Naturforsch. 18b, 276 280]. Upon binding of radiolabeled T5 phages to FhuA formation of a new protein of 250 kDa was observed. Using electrophoretical and Western blotting techniques this protein was shown to be formed by cross-linking of 3 copies of tail protein pb4, rather than by cross-linking of FhuA and the receptor-binding protein. PMID- 2529142 TI - [Fixed toxicoderma]. PMID- 2529143 TI - [Improvement in the organization of medical care for the population]. PMID- 2529144 TI - [Modulation of the nociceptive flexor reflex by the electrostimulation of auricular acupuncture points]. AB - Nociceptive flexor reflex (NFR) in patients with vertebrogenic lumbosacral pain syndromes was recorded before and after the ipsi- and contralateral auricular electroacupuncture (AEAP). Changes in NFR were observed after ipsi- and contralateral AEAP, each producing facilitatory and inhibitory effects on NFR. Facilitatory influence of AEAP on NFR correlated with hypalgesia, that apparently reflected recovery of the afferent input peculiarities. PMID- 2529145 TI - [The activating effect of ceruloplasmin on the development of delayed hypersensitivity in mice]. AB - The influence of ceruloplasmin on the development of delayed hypersensitivity (DHS) and activity of T-suppressors were studied in experiments on intact Balb/c mice. Ceruloplasmin introduced in a dose of 5 mg per 1 kg of weight a day before immunization of animals is shown to have a stimulating effect. The amount of the introduced drug being raised to 200 mg per 1 kg of weight suppressed the ability of organism to form DHS effect rather than increased it. Ceruloplasmin is stated to inhibit induction of DHS suppressors and to exert no effect on the expression of functional activity of the formed suppressors. PMID- 2529146 TI - Occupational influences on retirement, disability, and death. AB - This research examines the alternative mechanisms by which occupations influence the nature and timing of older men's labor force withdrawal. We specifically assess the extent to which occupational factors operate directly and indirectly on exiting events and whether occupations constrain traditional determinants of labor force participation. Based on a discrete-time hazard modeling approach, the results substantiate that the occupational task activities--substantive complexity and physical demands--are key elements of the work environment that are evaluated against nonwork alternatives. In the case of retirement, these aspects of occupational attractiveness function as a dominant and direct force in retirement decision making. With regard to disability, the occupational attribute of substantive complexity operates as an indirect advantage (through higher wages) by reducing the risk of disability. Indicators of career continuity also influence retirement among older workers. Finally, the results suggest that financial characteristics and health problems are central to the distribution of older workers across the alternative destination statuses of retirement, disability, and death. PMID- 2529147 TI - [Keratoses with granular degeneration and their relations to each other. II. Heterophenotypic expression of hyperkeratosis (erythrodermia congenitalis ichthyosiformis bullosa), naevus hystricoides and Vorner keratosis palmoplantaris cum degeneratione granulosa]. AB - By means of a patient suffering from epidermolytic hyperkeratosis, epidermolytic hereditary palmoplantar keratoderma VORNER and epidermolytic hystric nevus the relations of this keratinization disorders are shown. The different clinical symptoms in several patients are probable caused by pleiotropy. PMID- 2529148 TI - [Epidemiology of occupational dermatoses in the Potsdam district (V)]. AB - An epidemiological study focusing on the 1981 to 1985 occupational-dermatosis incidence was carried out, based on the medical-opinion data at the Potsdam County Council Occupational Hygiene Board, and comparisons were made with the results of previous studies. Occupational skin diseases accounted for 46 per cent of all cases and cases of BK 80 (BK stands for occupational disease recognised by GDR law) for 34.7 per cent, which is a 13.6 per cent increase over against the previous study covering the 1976 to 1980 period. A steady increase was found in the percentage of women with an occupational eczema (1981-1985: 66.2 per cent). Of all the eczema cases recognised as occupational diseases, 8.6 per cent had no allergic etiology. Among the various branches of occupation, the health service ranked first for the first time, accounting for 26.1 per cent. With regard to individual occupations too, the medical staff showed the highest incidence (20.8 per cent), followed by bricklayers and concrete workers (8.6 per cent), electroplating workers (6.7 per cent) and milkers (6.4 per cent). The allergens most frequently responsible for the occupational-eczema cases were formaldehyd (24.6 per cent), chromium compounds (15.7 per cent), nickel (15.6 per cent) and rubber ingredients (10.6 per cent). As compared with previous studies, there was an increase in terms of formaldehyde and nickel and a decrease in terms of turpentine oil, chromates and rubber ingredients. While one in five occupational contact eczema patients had to put up with occupational and social drawbacks in the course of their rehabilitation in the past, a substantial improvement has now been achieved by comprehensive organising measures taken by the Potsdam County Council Occupational-Hygiene Board. PMID- 2529149 TI - Calmodulin inhibition by anthralin? Investigations in vitro and in vivo. AB - Increased epidermal calmodulin (CaM) levels have been reported in psoriatic lesions. It has been suggested that CaM inhibition might be of relevance in the treatment of psoriasis vulgaris. Therefore we investigated the possible CaM inhibition by the antipsoriatic drug anthralin in vitro and in vivo. For in vitro studies, anthralin (0.44 mM) effects on the CaM-dependent Ca++-ATPase of CaM depleted erythrocyte ghosts were assessed. At 100 microM Ca++, no enzyme inhibition was measured either in the presence or absence of CaM. At 2 microM Ca++ anthralin inhibited the CaM stimulation of membrane-bound ATPase for 50% in presence of CaM. For in vivo studies, skin biopsies were taken from anthralin treated psoriatic lesions without scaling but still palpable infiltration during the first 3 weeks of therapy. Lesions with anthralin-induced irritation were excluded. The epidermal CaM level was determined by measuring the ability of soluble epidermal protein to activate the Ca++-ATPase in CaM-depleted erythrocyte ghosts. Epidermal CaM was 7.07 +/- 4.57 (mean +/- SD) microgram CaM/mg soluble epidermal protein. This is a 6-fold increase compared to normal human epidermis and a 3-fold increase compared to nontreated lesional psoriatic epidermis (p less than 0.01 and 0.02, respectively). The results argue against CaM inhibition of psoriatic epidermal keratinocytes as the primary event in the antipsoriatic action of anthralin. PMID- 2529150 TI - Steroid-induced dermal atrophy. Investigations on discontinuous application. AB - In this study several schedules of discontinuous application (DA) were tested, using various weak and strong topical corticosteroids (CS). The purpose of this study was to measure the influence of corticosteroids on skin thickness by means of a mechanical method. In a first experiment, betamethasone 17,21-dipropionate (Bet) and fluprednidene 21-acetate (Flu) were applied to the skin of the volar side of the forearm at a rhythm of 1:1 (1 day CS, 1-day interval) and 1:2 under occlusive dressing. The investigation period was 8 weeks. For comparison, Bet and Flu were applied continuously (CA) for 3 weeks. Flu thinned the skin to a lesser extent than Bet. With DA the skin was thinned to the same extent as with CA. In a second experiment, hydrocortisone 17-butyrate, betamethasone 17-valerate, desoxymethasone and hydrocortisone were tested. Here the treatment regimen was 5:9. The CS preparations were tested for 3 months on the volar side of the forearms under occlusive dressing. Skin thinning occurred during the 5 days of CS action and, in the beginning, receded again in the CS-free interval. However, this regressive process became weaker each time. At the end of the experiment the skin thinning persisted. With the exception of hydrocortisone, all CS tested produced statistically significant skin thinning after DA. The results of the investigation presented here show that thinning of the skin must also be expected with discontinuous application of topical CS. PMID- 2529151 TI - Solitary plexiform neurofibroma. AB - A 35-year-old man with a solitary subcutaneous cord running on the abdomen wall is reported. Histologic examination of the lesion permitted a diagnosis of plexiform neurofibroma. In this patient and in his family no other signs of von Recklinghausen's disease were found. The plexiform neurofibroma considered as pathognomonic of neurofibromatosis may occur in a solitary form. PMID- 2529152 TI - Diltiazem associated erythema multiforme. PMID- 2529153 TI - Fixed drug eruption induced by griseofulvin. PMID- 2529154 TI - Combination therapy ciclosporin-etretinate effective in erythrodermic psoriasis. PMID- 2529155 TI - Epidemiological study of cataracts in Burma and central Europe. PMID- 2529156 TI - Vasodilation associated with V2-type vasopressin activity: findings and implications. PMID- 2529157 TI - Differential regulation of right and left ventricular levels of atrial natriuretic factor mRNA and peptide. AB - Over a 16-day period post-hypophysectomy both atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) mRNA and peptide levels were quite differently regulated in right and left ventricles. In the right ventricle ANF mRNA levels showed a large increase 2 days post-hypophysectomy, and returned to control levels by day 8. In the left ventricle mRNA levels doubled by day 2, and continued to rise to reach plateau levels (approximately 3-fold control) 8-16 days post-hypophysectomy. Tissue levels of ANF peptide were also measured by radioimmunoassay over the same time period. Right ventricular ANF levels rose 10-fold 2 days post-hypophysectomy, and returned to 3 times control levels by 8 days, mirroring the changes in mRNA. In the left ventricle, however, ANF peptide levels did not change significantly from intact values over the entire 16-day period following hypophysectomy despite the progressive increase in ANF mRNA levels in this tissue, suggesting that the dichotomy between mRNA and peptide levels in the left ventricle reflects an increased rate of peptide secretion. PMID- 2529158 TI - Comparison of high- and low-diabetes-incidence NOD mouse strains. AB - The nonobese diabetic (NOD) mouse is a model of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. These mice develop insulinopenia and hyperglycemia secondary to beta cell destruction, which is associated with insulitis and autoantibody production. We have two strains of NOD mice: a low-incidence strain (NOD/Wehi), in which less than 10% females and less than 1% males develop diabetes by 150 days despite intense insulitis, and a high-incidence strain (NOD/Lt), in which most females and many males develop diabetes by 150 days. This phenotypic difference has been maintained for 24 mo despite identical housing in our specific pathogen-free unit. Reciprocal skin grafting and allozyme electrophoresis have not identified a difference between the strains. Mixed-lymphocyte cultures were performed with splenic T-lymphocytes cultured with equal numbers of irradiated stimulator splenocytes for 3-6 days. NOD/Wehi mice demonstrated a heightened syngeneic mixed lymphocyte response (SMLR), averaging 19% of the allogeneic response to CBA/CaHWehi cells. The response to NOD/Lt stimulator cells was not significantly different from the syngeneic response. In contrast, NOD/Lt mice had an SMLR similar to that of BALB/cAnBradleyWehi control mice, averaging 5% of the allogeneic response. NOD/Lt cells also responded similarly to NOD/Wehi stimulator cells and briskly to allogeneic cells. The heightened SMLR in NOD/Wehi mice may reflect active generation of suppressor function, and this may account for the low incidence of diabetes. PMID- 2529159 TI - Streptozotocin is not toxic to the human fetal B cell. AB - It has been generally assumed that because streptozotocin is toxic to the adult B cell of most species, it should also damage B cells obtained at earlier stages of development. This paper examines whether this is true for human fetal pancreata obtained from the therapeutic termination of pregnancies during the first half of the second trimester. Experiments were carried out both in vivo and in vitro. For the former experiments diced explants of the human fetal pancreas were grafted beneath the renal capsule of nude mice 3 weeks before streptozotocin was administered to make the animals diabetic. The grafts were removed 1 week, 2-4 weeks or 3 months later, and were found to be of similar weight and insulin content to the control grafts. In 2 of the animals with grafts remaining for 3 months the diabetes had even been reversed by the implant, hyperglycaemia recurring when the graft was removed. In contrast, rat fetal pancreata grafted beneath the renal capsule of nude mice, subsequently rendered diabetic, were adversely affected by streptozotocin, the insulin content of the implants being 12% of levels in control grafts. Adequate uptake of streptozotocin by the implanted human fetal pancreas was established by measuring tissue levels of the drug 30 min after its injection. Histological examination of the grafted human fetal pancreas showed no deleterious effect of streptozotocin on the number of granulated B cells one day after injection, although by this time the host was diabetic.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2529160 TI - Nonopiate active proenkephalin-derived peptides are secreted by T helper cells. AB - Recent investigations have shown that the neuroendocrine and immune systems profoundly affect each other. In part, these interactions occur via common chemical messengers and receptors. One possible shared chemical messenger is the opioid precursor preproenkephalin, for which high concentrations of messenger RNA are present in brain, adrenal, and activated T helper cells. Because the biologic action of most peptide messengers depends on the posttranslational processing of the precursor, we have examined T helper cell lines for the production of proenkephalin-derived peptides. These peptides were characterized by multiple radioimmunoassays, gel filtration chromatography, and opiate radioreceptor assays. We found that activated T helper cells secrete significant concentrations of high-molecular-weight, opiate-inactive peptides, which are distinct from the proenkephalin-derived peptides of the neuroendocrine system. These studies clearly indicate cell-specific processing of proenkephalin, and suggest that the T helper cell-secreted products may have nonopiate receptor-mediated actions. PMID- 2529161 TI - Structural requirements of heparin disaccharides responsible for hemorrhage: reversion of the antihemostatic effect by ATP. AB - Topically applied heparin and heparan sulfate disaccharides, with the basic structure delta-4,5 uronyl-(1----4)-glucosamine and bearing a sulfate at the C-6 position of the glucosamine residue, are antihemostatics as potent as heparin, producing uncontrollable hemorrhage from small blood vessels. The finding that other sulfated disaccharides with the same sulfate:hexosamine:uronic acid ratios but with the sulfate at a different position (C-2), or with different glycosidic linkage (1----3), were inactive as inhibitors of hemostasis indicates that a specific structure is needed to produce the effect. The inhibitory activity of the normal hemostatic process could be reversed by ATP. Molecular models show that part of the disaccharide inhibitors and ATP hold a similar structural conformation. PMID- 2529162 TI - Specialized receptors for antigens on gut epithelial T cells. PMID- 2529163 TI - Peritoneoscopic examination using intravenous administration of indocyanine green in the fatty liver. AB - Forty patients with fatty liver were studied by peritoneoscopic examination after intravenous administration of indocyanine green (ICG). Although diffuse or centrilobular steatosis was observed in both nonalcoholic and alcoholic fatty liver, periportal steatosis was seen only in alcoholic fatty liver. Vascular markings were more prominent in alcoholic fatty liver, especially in those with fibrosis, compared with nonalcoholic fatty liver. Fat was not stained with ICG. Unstained red patches, observed after ICG administration in both nonalcoholic and alcoholic fatty liver, were thought to be due to congestion in the former and to lobular inflammation as well as congestion in the latter. Acinar markings were indistinct in the fatty liver with fibrosis but became clearer after ICG administration. PMID- 2529164 TI - The use of two new coagulation probes for control of hemorrhage in laparoscopic liver biopsy. AB - Two new prototype probes, BICAP and Heater, were assessed to determine their effectiveness in controlling post-biopsy bleeding during laparoscopy. A total of 88 patients with a wide spectrum of liver diseases were studied. Both probes were equally effective in stopping bleeding in all patients. We recommend the use of either of these devices in controlling post-biopsy bleeding. PMID- 2529165 TI - [Rational hormonal diagnosis of oligomenorrhea]. AB - In a study, conducted by two clinics in Berlin and Hamburg, specializing in reproductive endocrinology, the anamnestic, clinical, and laboratory data of 170 oligomenorrheic patients (menstrual intervals between 35 and 90 days) were evaluated in order to determine the frequency of possible causes of oligomenorrhea. Pathological hormone levels were found in two thirds of all patients. The order of frequency of abnormal hormone levels was as follows: hyperandrogenemia (testosterone and/or DHEA-sulfate) in 41.8%, hyperprolactinemia in 25.9%, abnormal thyroid function (TSH and/or TRH-induced TSH) in 21.7%, and hypergonadotropic FSH levels in 3.5% of all patients. There was an overlap of between two or more pathological conditions in one third of all patients. This study confirms results of a previous study in amenorrheic patients (Moltz et al., 1987 - see reference list), documenting hyperandrogenemia as the most frequent abnormality found in this group, followed by hyperprolactinemia. As can be expected, the percentage of women with no discernible abnormality was higher in oligomenorrheic patients when compared with the amenorrheic group (32.3% vs 7.7%). Furthermore, overweight patients were overrepresented in the oligomenorrheic group, while underweight patients were seen more frequently in the amenorrheic group. In view of these results of our study we recommend a detailed diagnostic follow-up in all younger patients with ovarian disorders who need to preserve their reproductive potential. This follow-up should include hyperprolactinemia, hypo-/hyperthyroidism, hyperandrogenemic and hypoestrogenemic states and exclusion of primary ovarian failure. In contrast to recommendations of WHO, issued in 1976, such diagnostic work allows an etiology oriented therapy decision and a therapy risk assessment in subgroups of patients, such as hyperandrogenemic patients, who receive clomiphene or gonadotropin treatment. Furthermore, it permits prophylactic considerations, for prevention of hirsutism and polycystic ovarian disease, struma and osteoporosis prophylaxis. PMID- 2529166 TI - [Treatment of tubal pregnancy with methotrexate]. AB - Three women with unruptured tubal pregnancy, confirmed by laparoscopy were treated with a total dose of 140 mg methotrexate. The medicament was given in two therapeutic cycles. The action of methotrexate in the trophoblastic tissue was evaluated by serial determinations of beta hCG. No side effects were observed during the treatment. When the level of beta hCG dropped to 10 mIU/ml, the entire ectopic foetus (including the amnion, membrane, trophoderm and all pertaining tissue and fluids) was removed through the tube by massage after minilaparotomy. The patency of tubes proved to be normal on performing postoperative hysterosalpingography. One of the three patients delivered a healthy baby, another is in the third trimester of a normal pregnancy. PMID- 2529167 TI - High-level expression of active human cystatin C in Escherichia coli. AB - Expression of the human cysteine proteinase inhibitor, cystatin C (CysC) in the cytoplasm of Escherichia coli was studied using a cDNA fragment encoding the cysteine proteinase inhibitor controlled by the phage lambda pR/cI857 system. The yield of CysC was low, probably due to proteolytic degradation. By fusing the cysC cDNA to a DNA fragment encoding the signal peptide of the E. coli outer membrane protein A, it was possible to produce a substantial amount of CysC in the periplasm. The processing of the signal peptide was shown to be quantitative and to result in CysC with the correct N-terminal amino acid. Yields higher than 1000 micrograms CysC/ml can be obtained by initiating the product formation at a moderate temperature (40 degrees C) late in an optimized fermentation process. A method that gives selective extraction of the periplasmic proteins and at the same time stabilizes CysC has been used. PMID- 2529168 TI - The Escherichia coli MutH protein is not the repressor of the bacteriophage Mu mom operon. AB - Expression of the bacteriophage Mu mom-operon is under tight regulatory control. One of the factors required for transcription of the operon is the host Escherichia coli Dam activity. It was proposed that DNA methylation by this enzyme prevents the binding of a cellular repressor to an operator site containing three 5'-GATC-3' sequences, the known target site of Dam methylation. Support for this model came from the observation of others that the requirement for Dam was almost completely suppressed in a mutH-lysA deletion mutant, suggesting that the MutH protein is the postulated transcriptional repressor. In this communication, however, I show that the Dam requirement is not effectively relieved in this deletion mutant; therefore, the MutH protein alone is not the mom repressor. PMID- 2529170 TI - [Clinical games in the training of public health physicians]. PMID- 2529169 TI - [The role of chemical composition of drinking water in predicting the incidence of urolithiasis]. AB - Detailed observational data on urolithiasis incidence at the territory of the Amur Region are presented. 4 foci with a high level of disease incidence have been detected. The content of calcium, magnesium, and strontium has been determined in drinking water and correlation of urolithic disease rates with rations Ca/Sr and Mg/Sr were established. Certain dependence of the disease rates on the above ratios shows that their elevation corresponds to the reduction of urolithiasis rates, and vice versa. Application of the given technique in the urolithiasis endemic areas with the established level of disease incidence provides analogous results. It is assumed that in a number of cases unfavourable distribution of some chemical elements in drinking water, i. e., Ca/Sr and Mg/Sr, has affected the high level of urolithiasis incidence. PMID- 2529171 TI - [Possibility of strengthening the ties between medical societies, medical schools and public health authorities]. PMID- 2529172 TI - [Medical and sanitary care of workers in Grodno in the 19th and at the turn of the 20th century]. PMID- 2529173 TI - [Various aspects of forming a rational life style by students]. PMID- 2529174 TI - [Effect of physical training on the health status and mental work capacity of schoolchildren]. PMID- 2529175 TI - [Quantitative analysis of simple alcohols in industrial wastes and air at factories processing plant raw materials]. PMID- 2529176 TI - [Composition of drinking water from the Tambov region]. PMID- 2529178 TI - [Hygienic evaluation of air conditioning systems at health facilities in Uzbekistan]. PMID- 2529177 TI - [Lowering the toxic effect of fluorine on warm-blooded animals by changing the chemical composition of water]. PMID- 2529179 TI - [Occurrence of conditionally pathogenic microorganisms in food]. PMID- 2529180 TI - [Hygienic characteristics and ways of sanitizing working conditions of persons exposed to the lubricants-coolants MP IV and MP 8]. PMID- 2529181 TI - [Morphometric study of the placenta as an indicator of the effect of atmospheric air pollution]. PMID- 2529182 TI - [Photometric analysis of combined levels of acrylic acid and acrolein in the water]. PMID- 2529183 TI - [Use of programmed microcalculators in the evaluation of physical development of children of preschool age]. PMID- 2529184 TI - [Current hygienic aspects of allergy caused by pesticides and polymers]. PMID- 2529185 TI - [Experience with using computers in sanitary-epidemiological stations for automatic control of laboratory data]. PMID- 2529186 TI - [Problem of correction of hygienic standards with special reference to the hardness of drinking water]. AB - When hardness of water is less than 2.2 mg-eq/l the concentration of arsenic of 0.05 mg/l and aluminum of 0.5 mg/l are regarded as threshold. Subthreshold levels do not exceed 0.01 and 0.1 mg/l, respectively. Silicon concentration of 25 mg/l is absolutely safe when using water with hardness of less than 2.5 mg-eq/l. PMID- 2529188 TI - [Effect of drug production technology on the transition of cesium-137 to liquid drug form]. PMID- 2529187 TI - [Study of benzo(a)pyrene level in various by-products of the cellulose and paper industry]. PMID- 2529190 TI - [Heat exchange in machine operators and dump truck drivers during the exploitation of gravel and sand in Central Asia]. AB - The study was designed to analyze microclimatic conditions in the cabs of excavating machines and dump trucks during warm and cold seasons and to study their impact on body thermoregulatory processes in excavator and truck drivers. The study findings revealed that microclimate was especially unfavourable during a warm season. Inducators of body thermal state gave evidence that such working conditions generated stresses in thermoregulatory processes. Work during cold seasons caused some body cooling, especially at the beginning of the shift. The data thus obtained enabled one to elaborate health-improving measures aimed at optimization of workplace microclimate, rationalization of work/recreation regimen and drinking habits. PMID- 2529189 TI - [Improving working conditions of female glass cutters (polishers)]. AB - The analysis of modern vast data on working conditions and health status of female workers involved in glass product processing is presented. The results of the authors' study at one of crystal plants are also given. Due to the above analysis major occupational factors noxious to workers' health have been identified. Some shortcomings of the health-improving measures proposed by a number of researchers have been underlined, among them there are insufficient physiologic standardization of work activity and the absence of complex decisions on workplace ergonomization including design of machine tools and work furniture, dust localization and suction, elimination of constant hand cooling by water. PMID- 2529191 TI - [Working conditions in the production of electron-tube glass]. AB - The data on evaluation of working conditions in electron-tube glass production are presented. Major unfavourable factors, such as components of glass dust and their mixture, have been described. Approaches to standardization of electron tube glass dust are set forth. PMID- 2529192 TI - [Use of immunomycologic indicators in solving the problems of health protection of pregnant workers in the microbial synthesis industry]. AB - The study of 106 pregnant women engaged in microbiological synthesis production revealed the tendency to increasing genitalia contamination by Candida yeast-like fungi, including fungi-protein producers, and also oppression of immunologic reactivity in comparison with nonpregnant women and the control group. It was pointed out that from the beginning of their pregnancy period women should have no contact with yeast-like fungi. PMID- 2529194 TI - [Hygienic characteristics of noise in the cutting-punch workshops of the shoe industry]. PMID- 2529193 TI - [Morbidity and trauma among workers before and after the reconstruction of the copper-smelting plant in the Armenian SSR]. PMID- 2529195 TI - [Dust factors in the processing of asbestos-containing components]. PMID- 2529196 TI - [Hygienic evaluation of physical characteristics of the effect of impulse noise on stampers and blacksmiths and hearing loss and its prevention]. AB - The investigation of sanitary working conditions of stampers and blacksmiths revealed that intense impulse noise of complex time and stochatic structure was a major health adverse factor. Noise levels exceeding 110 dB played an important role in the formation of general noise load, thus acoustic sensitivity being modified. Close correlation was established between exposition and the recovery space of time auditory threshold deviation characterizing analyzer's stress. High effectiveness of new individual means of noise protection was demonstrated along with the necessity of developing requirements for noise characteristics of impulse noise-generating machines. PMID- 2529197 TI - [Experimental studies on the development of peritoneal adhesions in cases of suturing and non-suturing of the parietal peritoneum in rabbits]. AB - The author performed (in general ether anaesthesia) median upper and lower right oblique laparotomy in 50 rabbits (two incisions in each). In 25 rabbits from group I the author closed the wound without suturing the parietal peritoneum whereas in the remaining 25 rabbits from group II they closed the wound suturing the parietal peritoneum. On 1st, 3rd, 7th, 14th and 21st days following the procedure, 5 rabbits from each group were killed. The author evaluated the wounds of the parietal peritoneum by macro- and microscopy, and also the number of peritoneal adhesions in each group. It was found that in group I adhesions appeared only in 3 out of 50 incisions whereas in group II--17 adhesions out of 50 wounds (p less than 0.005). The author believes that parietal peritoneum that has not been sutured heals better and with a smaller number of adhesions than sutured parietal peritoneum. PMID- 2529198 TI - [Calcium magnesium ATPase activity in homogenates of the placenta and myometrium of pregnant women and parturients]. AB - The authors determined total and specific activity (Ca2+, Mg2+) ATPase in homogenates of uterus muscle, placenta, amnion and chorion. The material was also studied for the levels of ATP, ADP and AMP in order to evaluate the energetic potential. The research was carried out in two groups: among 23 pregnant women who underwent Cesarean section not accompanied by labour pains and among 30 women in labour in whom labour pains lasted up to six hours and then labour was completed by Cesarean section. It was found that in advanced pregnancy the highest enzyme activity is in chorion homogenates. Labour pains result in decrease in enzyme activity in the material studied; the highest significant decrease observed in chorion. It was also found that labour pains do not result in greater changes in energetic potential of tissues except for chorion and amnion. The results obtained point to particular participation of chorion in the process of active transportation of calcium ions in pregnancy and delivery. The consequence of change in enzyme activity will be changes in the level of Ca2+ ions, which will result in the activation or inhibition of various metabolic tracts on cellular level, including hormonal changes. PMID- 2529199 TI - Levels of protein S during the normal menstrual cycle and in women on oral contraceptives low in estrogen. AB - Total protein S, a coagulation regulating protein, was determined by an electroimmunoassay in samples of plasma collected during one menstrual or hormone induced cycle in 15 young women and 11 women using oral contraceptives with 30 micrograms ethinyl estradiol and 150 micrograms levonorgestrel. Distinct individual levels caused the with-in-group variations of plasma total protein S to be larger than the individual variations. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups, but in the hormone group there was a slight but statistically significant decrease during the hormone-induced cycle. PMID- 2529200 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide in relative polycythemia and polycythemia vera. AB - Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) levels have been tested in patients with chronic relative polycythemia (RP), polycythemia vera, and in healthy subjects in order to find a possible underlying pathophysiological mechanism for relative polycythemia. No difference in statistical significance has been found between the mean atrial natriuretic peptide levels of the polycythemic patients and the control group. It is suggested that ANP probably plays no significant role in the contraction of plasma volume observed in normotensive patients with RP. PMID- 2529201 TI - [Medical and rehabilitation aspects of the treatment of disabled people during the British Mandate in Palestine and the War of Independence 1920-1949]. PMID- 2529202 TI - [A proposal: seating and sitting clinic]. PMID- 2529203 TI - Primary peripheral T cell lymphoma in a kidney transplant under immunosuppression with cyclosporine A. AB - A 56-year-old patient received a cadaveric renal allograft because of primary cystic kidney disease. The donor was a 28-year-old man who died from head trauma. No other major illnesses were present at the time of transplantation. Immunosuppression was performed with cyclosporine A and steroids. After 3 months, the patient presented with fever and abdominal pain which was located in the region of the allograft. Ultrasonography demonstrated a tumor mass at the renal transplant hilus that was suspected to be an infected hematoma. Kidney biopsy from the cortex revealed only severe morphologic signs of cyclosporine A toxicity which was due to high cyclosporine A levels during the first 2 months after transplantation. The patient died from pulmonary embolism 6 months posttransplant. Histologic evaluation of the tumor specimens obtained at autopsy showed an extensive infiltration of the renal hilus and the medulla by a peripheral T cell lymphoma of the large-cell type. The T cell origin was confirmed by immunohistochemistry using the T cell-associated monoclonal antibodies UCHL-1 and MT1. PMID- 2529204 TI - Expression of the human ETS-2 oncogene in normal fetal tissues and in the brain of a fetus with trisomy 21. AB - The expression of the ETS-2 proto-oncogene, located on chromosome 21, in normal fetal tissues and in neural tissue of a fetus affected by Down syndrome has been investigated. The results show that the ETS-2 proto-oncogene is expressed in almost all the tissues examined and that it is transcribed at constant levels in neural tissue between the 13th and 24th weeks. ETS-2 expression appeared to be slightly increased in Down syndrome brain compared with that of normal controls of the same gestational age. PMID- 2529206 TI - A plasmin generation method for the determination of tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) activity in blood. AB - A plasmin generation method to determine tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) activity in plasma is described. A protein solution of homogenized fibrin was used as a stimulator in the presence of plasminogen and the plasmin generated was measured by the release of para-Nitroanilide (p-NA) from the chromogenic substrate S-2251. Plasmin generation by 5 iu/mL t-PA in the presence of 1 CU/mL of plasminogen and 850 micrograms/mL of fibrin solution reaches a peak at about 5 h incubation whilst in plasma, plasmin generation peaks after about 16 h incubation. The highest t-PA activity in plasma was determined using an assay involving 18 h incubation. In the 21 subjects studied by this method the t-PA activity at rest ranged from 0.34 to 0.92 iu/mL with a mean of 0.57 +/- 0.15 iu/mL of plasma whilst in the post-occlusion state the activity ranged from 1.12 to 18.0 iu/mL, with a mean of 5.25 +/- 4.49 iu/mL of plasma. We also found that subjects who developed petechiae during occlusion had significantly higher t-PA activity both at pre- and post-occlusion when compared with those who did not develop petechiae. The t-PA activity of acid-treated plasma stored at -70 degrees C showed no significant changes in activity after 12 weeks of storage when compared with the t-PA activity of the same plasma tested prior to storage. PMID- 2529205 TI - Molecular genetic approach to the characterization of the "Down syndrome region" of chromosome 21. AB - The cytogenetically defined "Down syndrome region" of chromosome 21 has been characterized by DNA analysis in patients with partial trisomy 21 with or without Down syndrome features. Single-copy DNA sequences mapped on chromosome 21 were used to determine copy number by polymorphism and/or dosage analysis in the patients. Given our results, which in some patients were in disagreement with their cytogenetic descriptions, trisomy for locus D21S13 through locus D21S58 is excluded from significant contribution to many Down syndrome features. The minimal chromosome region necessary in triplicate to result in the Down syndrome phenotypes in the patients characterized includes the area from locus D21S55 to locus COL6A1. We could not analyze the region between loci D21S58 and D21S55 and between COL6A1 and 21qter at the molecular level due to a lack of DNA probes and, consequently, the contribution of these areas to a Down syndrome phenotype when present in three copies is unknown. The molecular cloning and mapping of chromosome 21 and the expansion of the patient population studied will likely result in a more precise molecular definition of the Down syndrome region. PMID- 2529208 TI - Hospitals' responses to fiscal pressures may hold lessons for us. PMID- 2529207 TI - Epidemiological studies on guinea-worm in some newly discovered villages of Jhabua District (M.P.) and test of carica papaya leaves of guinea worm infection. AB - Epidemiological survey was carried out for prevalence of guinea worm infection in 12 villages having a total population of 10281 persons in Jhabua district of M.P. The prevalence of 2.85 percent. Infection was more common in males. A paste of leaves of carica papya with opium and common salt applied for 3 days was helpful in relief of symptoms and easy extraction of worm from the body. PMID- 2529209 TI - Long-term care: the great debate on the wrong issue. PMID- 2529210 TI - Restructuring the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program: the private sector option. AB - The Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP) needs to contain its costs. This paper recommends reforms of FEHBP that would substantially lower costs. As a first step, FEHBP should offer each employee a high and low option from a single conventional carrier, plus several HMO alternatives. FEHBP's practice of offering employees a choice of conventional carriers is virtually unheard of in the private sector. Cost control is more likely when carriers compete for employment groups rather than for individual employees. In addition, my analysis suggests that FEHBP should self-insure, competitively select third-party administrators (TPAs), one for each region of the country, aggressively manage program costs through preadmission certification and DRGs, and allow Medicare-eligible annuitants to enroll in Medicare HMOs and receive the government contribution. All of these reforms have been successfully implemented elsewhere, either by private employers or state or federal governments. These reforms would yield savings of at least $500 million annually for taxpayers and additional savings for federal employees. PMID- 2529211 TI - Costs and distributional impacts of employer health insurance mandates and Medicaid expansion. AB - A large number of Americans are uninsured. A number of recent proposals have been developed to extend coverage to the 31 to 37 million individuals currently without health insurance. This article examines two recent proposals. The first is to mandate coverage through the workplace. Two different methods of mandating workplace coverage are explored: the recent Kennedy-Waxman bill and the approach adopted in Massachusetts. Although both approaches cover the same number of uninsured, both the aggregate costs and their distribution differ dramatically. The article also explores the coverage and cost implications of an expansion of Medicaid alone and in conjunction with the employer mandate options. PMID- 2529212 TI - Selective contracting in California: an update. AB - Six years of selective contracting for health services in California provide strong evidence that the policy works to depress inflation in hospital inpatient costs and revenues, shift inpatient care to outpatient settings, and spread the PPO health benefit option throughout the state. These responses occur against a backdrop of rapid increases in population and aging and continuing declines in inpatient utilization. The policy has yet to affect excess capacity or capital expansion, and possibly even encourages the latter. There is still no good evidence of effects on quality of care, nor, due to a number of new negative influences, is there likely to be. PMID- 2529213 TI - Profits and fiscal pressure in the prospective payment system: their impacts on hospitals. AB - For hospitals that were under Medicare's Prospective Payment System (PPS) for one and two years in their 1985 fiscal year, this paper examines how variation in the fiscal pressure PPS imposed affected expenditures and other aspects of behavior. The analysis shows that in hospitals' second as well as first year on PPS, hospitals under greater pressure experienced greater behavioral change. However, second year changes were far smaller than changes in the system's first year. Evidence that variation in pressure reflects factors in addition to hospitals' relative efficiency and may undermine rather than promote appropriate cost containment leads the authors to propose modifications in PPS methods. PMID- 2529214 TI - Hospital productivity and intensity trends: 1980-87. AB - This paper takes advantage of a unique set of annual MONITREND data from the American Hospital Association (AHA) to study the effects of Medicare's Prospective Payment System (PPS) and other public/private programs on hospital productivity and intensity between 1980 and 1987. The results on over 30 cost centers show major improvements in inpatient productivity per discharge in the first two years of PPS--improvements that are largely attributable to shifts of care to the outpatient department. Inpatient intensity, which was growing 4.5% annually between 1980 and 1982, turned negative from 1983-85 due to this shifting locus of care. Productivity per intermediate service also improved but at a slower rate because of the large declines in inpatient volumes. Productivity improvements were greater in urban hospitals, resulting in slower cost inflation and a better financial position compared with rural hospitals. PMID- 2529215 TI - The role of health practices in HMO selection bias: a confirmatory study. AB - This research examines the relation between employees' health practices and health plan selection. A previous study, limited to one firm, showed that employees choosing a health maintenance organization (HMO) and a fee-for-service (FFS) plan had similar health practices. We extend this inquiry to 17 Minneapolis employees, all of whom offer at least one FFS plan and one or more of the 6 Twin Cities HMOs. Health practices were measured by cigarette smoking, heavy drinking (or abstinence from drinking), use of seat belts, and exercise. We estimated health plan choice equations that show that employees with poor health practices do not systematically prefer FFS plans compared with independent practice associations (IPAs). Nor do they select FFS or IPA plans compared with HMOs on the basis of health habits. We suggest that HMOs do not gain long-term cost advantages by enrolling employees with favorable health practices. PMID- 2529216 TI - Differences in inpatient resource use by type of health plan. AB - Approximately 50% of the annual increase in hospital costs comes from increased resource use per hospital admission. Health maintenance organizations (HMOs), given their fixed financial resources for patient care, have an incentive to constrain their enrollees' use of hospital resources. Our analysis investigates differences in length of stay, total charges, and the ancillary to total charge ratio for hospitalized patients in network HMOs, independent practice associations (IPAs), and fee-for-service (FFS) health plans in the Twin Cities from 1982 to 1984. Network HMO patients in several diagnostic categories are found to use significantly fewer resources, once hospitalized, than patients in either IPA or FFS plans. This difference may give network HMOs a competitive advantage in the market for health plans. PMID- 2529217 TI - Reimbursement decisions for hospital services: the case of psychiatric units under Medicare. AB - If the hospital meets specific requirements, under Medicare's Prospective Payment System (PPS) psychiatric units of general hospitals can apply for and receive an exemption from DRG-based payment. I find empirical evidence that the decision to seek an exemption is affected by a complex set of financial considerations. In addition to the difference in expected payment that would result from exempt versus nonexempt status, other factors at work include a facility's dependence on Medicare for revenues and its attitude toward aggressively gaming Medicare reimbursement options. These results indicate the importance of exemption options in an increasingly competitive market for specialized hospital services. PMID- 2529218 TI - Total child patient care--aspects of paediatric dentistry and orthodontics. AB - Various factors have combined to create a situation in which paediatric dentistry is undergoing considerable change. These include the declining prevalence of caries, the refinement of preventive measures and the rapid development of new materials and techniques. The result is a shift in emphasis away from a purely conservative, restorative approach towards a concept of total child care. This requires the practitioner to consider total treatment planning in which there will be phases of preventive, restorative and orthodontic treatment appropriate to each child patient. Correct application of these skills, modified by the application of advancing technology, will ensure that children so treated will grow to value and appreciate good dental health. PMID- 2529219 TI - Identification of a mouse anti-rat IgE monoclonal antibody, 44.7b, which inhibits IgE binding to RBL cells. AB - We have identified a monoclonal antibody specific for rat IgE, 44.7b, which blocks binding of rat IgE to the mast cell-like line RBL. Other monoclonal anti rat IgE antibodies (MARE1 and B5) did not inhibit IgE binding to these cells. Furthermore, 44.7b did not react with IgE previously bound to these cells. These results indicate that 44.7b binds to an epitope on the IgE molecule which is within the binding site of the mast cell IgE Fc receptor (FcERI). The 44.7b monoclonal antibody did recognize IgE bound to a B lymphocyte cell line indicating that mast cell and B lymphocyte FcERs recognize different regions of the IgE molecule. PMID- 2529220 TI - Presence on a human melanoma of multiple antigens recognized by autologous CTL. AB - We derived from blood lymphocytes of a melanoma patient a large number of cytolytic T-cell clones directed against a cell line of the autologous tumor. Three distinct groups of antigens were recognized by these CTL on the autologous melanoma cells: group A consisted of stable antigens present on all sublines, whereas antigens B and C appeared unstable and were expressed by distinct sublines. In vitro immunoselections with various anti-A CTL clones were applied to the melanoma cells and variants resistant to 3 different CTL clones were obtained. These variants remained sensitive to other anti-A CTL clones, indicating that group A comprises at least 4 different antigens (D, E, F and A'). From a total of 76 CTL clones obtained from lymphocytes collected from the patient at various times, we found that 45 were anti-B, 17 were anti-C, 2 were anti-D, 9 were anti-E, 2 were anti-F and I was anti-A'. It is therefore likely that the 6 antigens identified by these CTL clones represent all or nearly all the transplantation antigens recognized by autologous CTL on this human melanoma. PMID- 2529221 TI - Epidermal growth factor responsiveness of a new human neuroblastoma cell line. AB - A human neuroblastoma cell line, CA-2E, has been established from a bone-marrow aspirate of a 16-month-old boy with progressive disease. The karyotype and antigen phenotype of the cells correspond to those of a neuroblastoma. This cell line grows well in liquid cultures supplemented with 5% fetal calf serum; conversely, colony formation in semi-solid medium by cells from early passages is dependent upon exogenous EGF. With time in continuous culture, the cloning efficiency in the absence of EGF increases, but the line remains sensitive to EGF, as evidenced by an enhancement of the number and size of colonies. A relative dependence upon EGF in liquid cultures has also been clearly demonstrated by limiting the concentration of serum. Long-term (over 2 weeks) treatment with EGF results in a decreased rate of proliferation, a decreased proportion of clonogenic cells, and the appearance of flat, epithelial-type cells. In some experiments, EGF also has a remarkable effect in inducing neurite outgrowth and process branching. Our results suggest that EGF may have both proliferation- and differentiation-inducing effects on this neuroblastoma cell line. We have also shown that EGF induces increased proliferation in 7 out of 8 other human neuroblastoma cell lines. Functional response of neuroblastoma cells to EGF appears to be a general phenomenon which may be related to a block in the normal maturation pathway of the neural crest cells from which this tumor originates. PMID- 2529222 TI - Calcium channel blockers in hypertension. PMID- 2529223 TI - Physiological role of atrial natriuretic peptide. PMID- 2529224 TI - Workers' compensation and psychological stress claims in North American law: a microcosmic model of systemic discrimination. PMID- 2529225 TI - Possible involvement of endogenous opioids in beta-cell hyperresponsiveness in human obesity. AB - Since increased opiate production in obesity has been reported, the effects of naloxone in obese subjects were studied in order to ascertain whether endogenous opioid peptides play a role in the abundant insulin secretion of obesity. The results obtained showed that intravenous administration of naloxone considerably reduced insulin of obese subjects to a mixed meal, whereas it did not modify the blood insulin response to arginine or glucose infusion. Glucagon secretion to ingestion of a mixed meal and to arginine infusion was not modified by the opioid receptor blocking agent. This study seems to indicate that hyperproduction of endogenous opioid peptides in obesity increases insulin secretion stimulated by food intake, whereas it does not appreciably affect insulin production stimulated by circulating glucose or aminoacids. PMID- 2529226 TI - Porcine model for the development of interventional techniques in the gallbladder. AB - A technique that permits repeated access to the porcine gallbladder through a surgically placed 18 French latex catheter is described and experience with this system in 22 swine is discussed. This porcine gallbladder model produces a reliable and reproducible means for studying clinically applicable interventional procedures. PMID- 2529227 TI - Low CSF met-enkephalin levels in cluster headache are elevated by acupuncture. AB - Significantly lower met-enkephalin levels were found in CSF from cluster headache sufferers as compared to age-matched healthy volunteers, whereas it was not possible to demonstrate any clear-cut difference for beta-endorphin. CSF opioid levels may rise following manual or electroacupuncture. It was studied whether traditional Chinese (manual) acupuncture affected CSF levels of met-enkephalin or beta-endorphin in these patients, and to what extent this treatment would be beneficial for the headache. A significant rise in lumbar CSF met-enkephalin levels was found, whereas no clear change in beta-endorphin levels was obtained. The treatment was, however, of little value in preventing the headache. PMID- 2529228 TI - [Perioral dermatitis]. AB - A unifying concept of the pathogenesis of perioral dermatitis is presented: perioral dermatitis is a cutaneous intolerance reaction linked to constitutionally dry skin and often accompanied by a history of mild atopic dermatitis. It is precipitated by the habitual use of one or - more often - a variety of moisturizing creams. The type and content of the creams used appear to play a much less important role than the mode of application (regular and abundant). The proposed pathomechanism is: persistent hydration of the horny layer, impairment of barrier function, an proliferation of the skin flora. Topical corticosteroids can aggravate but do not cause perioral dermatitis. This concept of pathogenesis leads to a simple and effective concept of therapy: reduction of the frequency with which moisturizing creams are applied from "regularly" to "as required" (only when dry and smarting skin makes this necessary) generally leads to lasting disappearance of symptoms within approximately 1 month. PMID- 2529229 TI - [Infantile acropustulosis]. AB - Infantile acropustulosis starts in the first few months of life with the recurrent appearance of pruritic intraepidermal pustules containing neutrophils. Predilection sites are the hands and feet. Episodes of pustular eruptions lasting from 8 to 14 days are followed by longer intervals with no symptoms. However, some infants present with skin lesions more widely distributed over the body and with eosinophils as a major constituent of the pustules. In these cases differentiation from other eosinophilic pustular dermatoses of infancy, e.g., the pustular variant of toxic erythema, eosinophilic pustular folliculitis, and transient neonatal pustular melanosis, may become difficult. The etiology of infantile acropustulosis is unknown. The disease clears up spontaneously within the first few years of life. In some cases DADPS therapy has been of benefit. PMID- 2529230 TI - [Allergy to amalgam]. PMID- 2529231 TI - Microwave cataract and litigation: a case study. AB - This paper gives details of a recent court case conducted in Australia concerning a compensation claim made by a radar technician for subcapsular posterior cataracts allegedly caused by exposure to microwave radiation. A discussion of some relevant material, including the likely invalidation of certain in vivo ocular exposures due to the use of a metallic cannula and the relevance of in vitro exposures of rat lenses, are presented. The key findings of the court are also summarized. The ruling of the court was that it was probable that the level of microwave exposure did not cause, or accelerate the development of, the cataracts or contribute to doing so. Consequently, the claim was dismissed. PMID- 2529232 TI - Comparison of renal biopsy techniques in dogs. AB - To evaluate adequacy of biopsy specimens obtained and safety to the patient, the standard keyhole biopsy technique (using digital immobilization of the right kidney and placement of the biopsy needle up to the capsule before obtaining a tissue sample) was compared with 9 technical modifications. Adequacy was judged by the number of intact glomeruli observed in the specimen. Detection of transected blood vessels and renal pelvis was presumed to have predictive value for postbiopsy complications of hemorrhage and hydronephrosis. Needle biopsy specimens were also obtained from left and right kidneys by use of laparoscopic visualization and were compared with those obtained by use of the standard keyhole technique. Although the standard keyhole technique yielded the highest percentage of adequate biopsy specimens, there was no statistical difference between specimens obtained by this technique and those obtained by the modified technique or by laparoscope-guided biopsy. Also, significant difference in percentage of biopsy specimens with renal pelvis was not found between specimens obtained by the standard and modified techniques. For each technique, the biopsy core length was measured and the mean value was calculated. In this study, core length did not correlate with adequacy of the biopsy specimen. PMID- 2529233 TI - Hematologic effects of exposure to three infective agents in rabbits. AB - Infectious disease is typically accompanied by changes in the number and types of circulating leukocytes. To examine the effects of infectious challenge on the distribution of rabbit WBC, rabbits were inoculated IV with Streptococcus pyogenes, Escherichia coli, or Candida albicans. Blood was collected prior to and every 6 to 12 hours after inoculation for 48 hours. Infectious challenge did not substantially alter total WBC counts, but did cause neutrophilia and lymphopenia for 6 to 48 hours after inoculation. Similar patterns of leukocyte distribution were observed in rabbits with naturally developing clinical problems. Thus, high total WBC counts may not be a common characteristic of acute infectious conditions in rabbits, but differential distributions of various leukocyte populations can provide useful markers of disease in this species. PMID- 2529234 TI - Hydroxylation and N-demethylation of clarithromycin (6-O-methylerythromycin A) by Mucor circinelloides. PMID- 2529235 TI - Histochemical characteristics of human expiratory and inspiratory intercostal muscles. AB - The relative occurrence of slow-twitch (ST) and fast-twitch (FTa and FTb) fibers, fiber size, and capillary supply in internal (INT) and external intercostal muscles (EXT), the costal diaphragm (DIA), and vastus lateralis muscle (VAS) was examined post-mortem in eight healthy males. The relative occurrence of ST fibers in INT [64 +/- 3% (SE)] and EXT (62 +/- 3%) was similar but higher than in DIA (49 +/- 3%) and VAS (40 +/- 6%; P less than 0.05). The occurrence of FTa fibers in expiratory INT (35 +/- 3%) was higher than in inspiratory INT and EXT (17 +/- 1%; P less than 0.05) but similar to DIA (28 +/- 6%) and VAS (32 +/- 2%). Accordingly, expiratory INT had fewer FTb fibers (1 +/- 1%) than the others (P less than 0.05). Expiratory INT had a 60% larger fiber area than inspiratory INT and EXT and DIA (P less than 0.05), but the area was similar to that of VAS. The number of capillaries per fiber was higher in expiratory INT (2.3 +/- 0.1) than in inspiratory INT and EXT (1.6 +/- 0.1), DIA (1.9 +/- 0.1), and VAS (1.8 +/- 0.2; P less than 0.05). The results suggest that the occurrence of many large capillary-rich FTa fibers in expiratory INT is bound to function (expiratory vs. inspiratory) rather than to anatomy (INT vs. EXT). PMID- 2529236 TI - Oxidative capacity and capillary density of diaphragm motor units. AB - Motor units in the cat diaphragm (DIA) were isolated in situ by microdissection and stimulation of C5 ventral root filaments. Motor units were classified based on their isometric contractile force responses and fatigue indexes (FI). The muscle fibers belonging to individual units (i.e., the muscle unit) were identified using the glycogen-depletion method. Fibers were classified as type I or II based on histochemical staining for myofibrillar adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) after alkaline preincubation. The rate of succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) activity of each fiber was determined using a microphotometric procedure. The location of capillaries was determined from muscle cross sections stained for ATPase after acid (pH = 4.2) preincubation. The capillarity of muscle unit fibers was determined by counting the number of capillaries surrounding fibers and by calculating the number of capillaries per fiber area. A significant correlation was found between the fatigue resistance of DIA units and the mean SDH activity of muscle unit fibers. A significant correlation was also observed between DIA unit fatigue resistance and both indexes of muscle unit fiber capillarity. The mean SDH activity and mean capillary density of muscle unit fibers were also correlated. We conclude that DIA motor unit fatigue resistance depends, at least in part, on the oxidative capacity and capillary density of muscle unit fibers. PMID- 2529237 TI - Capsaicin-induced bronchodilation in mild asthmatic subjects: possible role of nonadrenergic inhibitory system. AB - We investigated whether stimulation of vagal afferent nerve fibers with inhaled capsaicin could induce a nonadrenergic inhibitory reflex in nine mild asthmatic subjects. Changes in total respiratory resistance (Rrs) were measured with a forced oscillation technique. First we induced a rise of 71 +/- 15% in Rrs (P less than 0.001) after leukotriene D4 aerosol. Subsequent inhalation of capsaicin (2 nmol) caused no significant change in mean Rrs of -1.1 +/- 8.2%. After the muscarinic receptor antagonist ipratropium bromide (120 micrograms) was inhaled, leukotriene D4 increased Rrs by 103 +/- 9% (P less than 0.001). Capsaicin subsequently caused bronchodilation in all subjects (Rrs = -22.3 +/- 2.7%, P less than 0.001). Ethanol-saline (diluent) alone caused a nonsignificant fall in Rrs ( 9.9 +/- 4.7%) but a deep breath and coughing resulted in bronchodilation (-16.9 +/- 6.1%, P less than 0.05 and -11.6 +/- 2.9%, P less than 0.01, respectively). As observed in normal subjects, capsaicin may initiate an inhibitory reflex, presumably of nonadrenergic origin. This reflex could not be distinguished from that caused by coughing or by deep inhalation. A defect in nonadrenergic mechanisms, at least in mild asthma, seems unlikely. PMID- 2529238 TI - Effects of periodic weight support on medial gastrocnemius fibers of suspended rat. AB - Based on the current view that muscle fiber types reflect, at least to some degree, the probability of excitation of motor units in most normal movements, it was hypothesized that brief moderate periods of weight support would have little effect on a muscle that consists predominantly of high-threshold motor units. To test this hypothesis, the effects of 7 days of hindlimb suspension (HS) and HS plus intermittent weight support activity on the size and metabolic properties of individual fibers in the medial gastrocnemius (MG) were studied. HS resulted in a 40% decrease in the mean cross-sectional area of fibers that stain either dark or light for myosin adenosinetriphosphatase (ATPase) at an alkaline preincubation and are located in the deep region (i.e., close to the bone) of the MG. Dark ATPase fibers located in the superficial region were 17% smaller than controls (P greater than 0.05). Although the mean succinate and alpha-glycerophosphate dehydrogenase activities (optical density/min) per muscle fiber were not significantly (P greater than 0.05) affected by HS, it appeared that selected fibers of the deep MG region of HS rats had elevated enzyme activities. HS plus walking on a treadmill for 10 min every 6 h at 5 m/min and at a 19 degrees incline (total of 40 min/day) resulted in mean fiber cross-sectional area and enzyme activities nearer to control than the HS values. All adaptations were much less obvious in the fibers in a superficial (i.e., away from the bone) MG region.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2529239 TI - Contractile properties of old rat muscles: effect of increased use. AB - To examine how different kinds of activity affect the composition and contractile properties of aging skeletal muscle, old male rats were strength and swim trained. The mass of weights lifted during the strength training increased by 85 +/- 9% (P less than 0.05), which was accompanied by an increase by 32 +/- 5% (P less than 0.05) of the estimated force developed. The wet muscle weight of the soleus and the plantaris decreased significantly with age. The phenomenon was counteracted but not neutralized by the strength training. Twitch and tetanic tension also decreased significantly with age in both the soleus and plantaris muscle. This was avoided by the strength training. This training also significantly decreased time to peak tension and half-relaxation time of both muscles. The swim training increased the heart-to-body weight ratio by 21 +/- 5% (P less than 0.05) and the endurance of the soleus muscle. Time to peak tension and triosephosphate dehydrogenase activity of the plantaris muscle were strongly correlated (P less than 0.001) with myosin adenosinetriphosphatase activity. The results show that the composition and contractile properties of old skeletal muscle are considerably affected by strength training repeated during a substantial period of old age, whereas swim training only affects the endurance of the skeletal muscle. PMID- 2529240 TI - Does atrial natriuretic factor protect against right ventricular overload? I. Hemodynamic study. AB - We studied the effects of synthetic atrial natriuretic factor (ANF, 28-amino acid peptide) on base-line perfusion pressures and pressor responses to hypoxia and angiotensin II (ANG II) in isolated rat lungs and on the following hemodynamic and renal parameters in awake, chronically instrumented rats: cardiac output (CO), systemic (Rsa) and pulmonary (Rpa) vascular resistances, ANG II- and hypoxia (10.5% O2)-induced changes in Rsa and Rpa, and urine output. Intra arterial ANF injections lowered base-line perfusion pressures and blunted hypoxia and ANG II-induced pressor responses in the isolated lungs. Bolus intravenous injection of ANF (10 micrograms/kg) into intact rats decreased CO and arterial blood pressures of both systemic and pulmonary circulations and increased Rsa. ANG II (0.4 micrograms/kg) increased both Rsa and Rpa, and hypoxia increased Rpa alone in the intact rats. ANF (10 micrograms/kg) inhibited both ANG II- and hypoxia-induced increases in Rpa but did not significantly affect the ANG II induced increase in Rsa. The antagonistic effect of ANF on pulmonary vasoconstriction was reversible and dose-dependent. The threshold doses of ANF required to inhibit pulmonary vasoconstriction were in the same range as those required to elicit diuresis and natriuresis. The data demonstrate that ANF has a preferential relaxant effect on pulmonary vessels constricted by hypoxia or ANG II. Both the renal and the pulmonary vascular effects of ANF may represent fundamental physiological actions of ANF. These actions may serve as a negative feedback control system that protects the right ventricle from excessive mechanical loads. PMID- 2529242 TI - The physician and mental retardation. PMID- 2529241 TI - Does atrial natriuretic factor protect against right ventricular overload? II. Tissue binding. AB - Previous studies have led us to hypothesize that the physiological significance of the diuretic and pulmonary vaso-relaxant effects of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) is to protect the right heart. This study was designed to evaluate the relative importance of various peripheral tissues as sites of ANF action by tracing the temporal pattern of distribution of 125I-ANF and quantitating the specific binding sites. An in vivo approach, utilizing trace amount of 125I-ANF was adopted to simulate physiological conditions. 125I-ANF injected either intravenously or intra-arterially was quickly bound to peripheral tissues with less than 5% remaining in the circulation after 1 min. The relative binding capacity was greatest in the lung, followed by the kidney, right ventricle, adrenal gland, and left ventricle. The magnitude of specific ANF binding sites per gram of tissue weight followed a similar order. The data demonstrate that ANF released under all circumstances is quickly bound to the target organs, particularly the lung and the kidney, and suggest that these two organs could be the most important target organs of ANF. This evidence provides further support for the proposed hypothesis that a major evolutionary role of ANF is the protection of the right ventricle from mechanical loads. PMID- 2529243 TI - Electrocardiogram of the month. PMID- 2529244 TI - Problems relative to special education services in Arkansas. PMID- 2529245 TI - The diagnosis and management of male infertility. PMID- 2529246 TI - Clinical experience with ciprofloxacin. AB - In a multicenter study of 30 patients treated with ciprofloxacin (mean daily dosage, 1000 mg per day; mean duration of treatment, 10.6 days) for a variety of infections, 14 were microbiologically proven. Of these, bacteriologic cure and/or improvement resulted in 92.3% of cases. For all 30 infections clinical cure and/or improvement resulted in 88.9% of cases. A total of ten infections were classified as chronic. Overall there were 5/30 (16%) adverse reactions (ADRs), however, only two were definitely related to ciprofloxacin therapy. For three ADRs the relationship to therapy was uncertain. Therapy with ciprofloxacin was discontinued in one (3.3%) patient because of adverse effects. Four patients elected to continue ciprofloxacin therapy despite mild side effects. PMID- 2529247 TI - [Laser assisted angioplasty]. AB - Percutaneous laser thermal angioplasty with a hot tip fiber was used in 26 patients to recanalize 20 femoropopliteal occlusions, 5 iliac thromboses and one occlusion of the left subclavian artery. Initial angiographic success was achieved in 85% for the femoropopliteal lesions and in 60% for the iliac occlusions. Eight complications did occur, but none necessitated emergency bypass surgery. PMID- 2529248 TI - [Ambulatory myelography using iohexol (Omnipaque): methods and results]. AB - Outpatient myelography with iohexol (Omnipaque) was performed in 150 patients. Side effects were noted in 28 patients (19%), with only 3 (2%) major complaints. It concerned 2 patients with severe and prolonged headache and one patient with seizures. Side effects were not more frequent in outpatient myelography than in reported series of hospitalized patients. The frequency of side effects was significantly lower with the use of iohexol than in comparable studies with metrizamide. Headache was the most frequent side effect, followed by an increase or exacerbation of ischiatiform pain, nausea and vomiting. Side effects were slightly more frequent in cervical myelography than in lumbar myelography and were not related to underlying pathology. It is concluded that outpatient myelography is feasable for as far as iohexol is used and patient surveillance is carefully organized. PMID- 2529249 TI - Percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty versus renovascular surgery: statistical, medical and economical considerations. AB - Retro- and prospective comparative studies in patients with renal artery stenosis demonstrate that technical results and blood pressure improvement after renovascular surgery or percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty (PTRA) are strictly comparable. The lesser invasive character of PTRA together with its lower complication rate and the lower cost explain why PTRA is the method of choice in the treatment of renal artery stenosis, with less restrictive selection criteria than used for surgery. PMID- 2529250 TI - Balloon angioplasty of venous structures. AB - Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty was attempted in 20 patients with stenoses of venous structures. It concerned one stenosis in a native subclavian vein, 12 stenoses in venous bypass grafts and 7 stenoses in hemodialysis-access fistulas. Primary results were excellent for the procedures in the native vein and the venous bypass grafts with success in all patients (13/13). In the arteriovenous fistulas for hemodialysis, dilatation of the venous stenoses was only possible in 5 out of 7 patients. The subclavian vein stenosis did not recur within a follow up period of 3 years. Of the stenoses in the venous bypass grafts, two lesions reoccluded within one week and 6 lesions recurred within one year. Two of these lesions were successfully redilated so that 6 lesions remain patent with a follow up of more than one year. Of the 5 successful dilatations in hemodialysis-access fistulas, two lesions recurred within 2 months. Only 3 veins are still accessible for hemodialysis. It is concluded that attempts at balloon dilatation of stenoses in venous bypass grafts or hemodialysis-access fistulas are meaningful in order to prolong the life of these surgical procedures. Recurrence of stenoses is however likely to occur within one or two years. PMID- 2529251 TI - Color Doppler as a morphologic modality. PMID- 2529252 TI - Overproduction, purification, and ATPase activity of the Escherichia coli RuvB protein involved in DNA repair. AB - The ruvA and ruvB genes of Escherichia coli constitute an operon which belongs to the SOS regulon. Genetic evidence suggests that the products of the ruv operon are involved in DNA repair and recombination. To begin biochemical characterization of these proteins, we developed a plasmid system that overproduced RuvB protein to 20% of total cell protein. Starting from the overproducing system, we purified RuvB protein. The purified RuvB protein behaved like a monomer in gel filtration chromatography and had an apparent relative molecular mass of 38 kilodaltons in sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, which agrees with the value predicted from the DNA sequence. The amino acid sequence of the amino-terminal region of the purified protein was analyzed, and the sequence agreed with the one deduced from the DNA sequence. Since the deduced sequence of RuvB protein contained the consensus sequence for ATP-binding proteins, we examined the ATP-binding and ATPase activities of the purified RuvB protein. RuvB protein had a stronger affinity to ADP than to ATP and weak ATPase activity. The results suggest that the weak ATPase activity of RuvB protein is at least partly due to end product inhibition by ADP. PMID- 2529253 TI - Nucleotide sequence and regulation of the Escherichia coli gene for ferrienterobactin transport protein FepB. AB - The Escherichia coli fepB gene encodes a periplasmic protein required for ferrienterobactin transport; four fepB-related polypeptides are resolved by standard sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. In vitro DNA directed protein-synthesizing systems and experiments with the inhibitors dinitrophenol, carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazone, and ethanol demonstrated that the initial fepB translation product is processed. The nucleotide sequence of fepB and neighboring regions was determined. The predicted proFepB has a molecular weight of 34,255, consists of 318 amino acids, and is devoid of cysteine residues. A leader peptide is present, as are three possible leader peptidase cleavage sites after positions 22, 23, and 26. The upstream regulatory region included a Fur box, indicating that fepB is iron regulated, which was verified by RNA dot blot experiments. The regulatory region included a 68-amino acid open reading frame (ORF) that encompassed a sequence capable of forming a large stem-and-loop structure. Indirect evidence indicated that this ORF must be translated for fepB transcription to occur. Six copies of the nonomer CCCTC(A/T)CCC or its invert were present in the stem-and-loop region. An ORF of unknown significance was found downstream from fepB; its product would have a molecular weight of 18,036 and be rich in proline and alanine. Processing of proFepB remains unclear, but the appearance of the three smaller members of the FepB family required the action of leader peptidase and the presence of the entire fepB gene. PMID- 2529254 TI - Folate-pool interconversions and inhibition of biosynthetic processes after exposure of L1210 leukemia cells to antifolates. Experimental and network thermodynamic analyses of the role of dihydrofolate polyglutamylates in antifolate action in cells. AB - Folate analogs that inhibit dihydrofolate reductase result in only partial interconversion of tetrahydrofolate cofactors to dihydrofolate with preservation of the major portion of reduced cellular folate cofactors in L1210 leukemia cells. One possible explanation for this phenomenon is that low levels of dihydrofolate polyglutamates that accumulate in the presence of antifolates block thymidylate synthase to prevent depletion of reduced folate pools. This paper correlates biochemical analyses of rapid interconversions of radiolabeled folates and changes in purine and pyrimidine biosynthesis in L1210 murine leukemia cells exposed to antifolates with network thermodynamic computer modeling to assess this hypothesis. When cells are exposed to 1 microM trimetrexate there is an almost instantaneous inhibition of [3H] deoxyuridine or [14C]formate incorporation into nucleotides which is maximal within 5 min. This is associated with a rapid rise in cellular dihydrofolate (t1/2 approximately 1.5 min), which reaches a steady state that represents only 27.9% of the total folate pool. Pretreatment of cells with fluorodeoxyuridine, to inhibit thymidylate synthase by about 95% followed by trimetrexate only slows the rate of folate interconversion (t1/2 approximately 25 min) but not the final dihydrofolate level achieved. This is consistent with computer simulations which predict that direct inhibition of thymidylate synthase by 97, 98, and 99% should increase the half-time of dihydrofolate rise after trimetrexate to 40, 60, and 124 min, respectively, but the final level achieved is always the same as in cells with normal thymidylate synthase activity. The data reflect the high degree of catalytic activity of thymidylate synthase relative to tetrahydrofolate cofactor pools in the cells and the enormous extent of inhibition of this enzyme that is necessary to slow the rate of folate interconversions after addition of antifolates. The model predicts, and the data demonstrate, that virtually any residual thymidylate synthase activity will permit the interconversion of all tetrahydrofolate cofactors available for oxidation to dihydrofolate when dihydrofolate reductase activity is abolished, but the rate of interconversion will be slowed. Additional simulations indicate that the time course of cessation of tetrahydrofolate dependent purine and pyrimidine biosynthesis after antifolates in these cells can be accounted for solely on the basis of tetrahydrofolate cofactor depletion alone. These data exclude the possibility that direct inhibition of thymidylate synthase by dihydrofolate polyglutamates, or any other intracellular folates that accumulate in cells after antifolates, can account for the rapid but partial interconversion of reduced folate cofactors to dihydrofolate.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2529255 TI - pH and temperature resolve the kinetics of two pools of calcium bound to the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ -ATPase. AB - Calcium bound to the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ -ATPase was removed by chelating free calcium ion with EGTA. The kinetic calcium binding reaction to the calcium unbound ATPase was studied by varying the pH (6.0-8.8) and temperature (0-20 degrees C) at a saturating concentration of 50-100 microM [Ca2+]. At pH 6.0 and 0 degrees C, calcium sites of the enzyme at a rate of t1/2 approximately 10 s. By increasing the pH from 6.0 to 8.8, about half of the total calcium sites were converted from a slow binding state to a rapid binding state (less than 2s). The maximum level was reached at about pH 7.4, and the midpoint of the conversion was observed at about pH 6.7. On the other hand, the slow binding reaction to the other sites was not significantly affected by the pH increase. At pH 7.0 and 20 degrees C, about 90% of the total calcium sites rapidly (less than 2s) bound calcium. The present results suggest that pH and temperature resolve the kinetics of two pools of calcium bound to the Ca2+-ATPase. PMID- 2529256 TI - Aurovertin fluorescence changes of the mitochondrial F1-ATPase during multi- and uni-site ATP hydrolysis. AB - The aurovertin-F1 complex was used to monitor fluorescence changes of the mitochondrial adenosine triphosphatase during multi- and uni-site ATP hydrolysis. It is known that the fluorescence intensity of the complex is partially quenched by addition of ATP or Mg2+ and enhanced by ADP (Chang, T., and Penefsky, H. S. (1973) J. Biol. Chem. 248, 2746-2754). In the present study low concentrations of ATP (0.03 mM) induced a marked fluorescence quenching which was followed by a fast fluorescence recovery. This recovery could be prevented by EDTA or an ATP regenerating system. The rate of ATP hydrolysis by the aurovertin-F1 complex and the reversal of the ATP-induced fluorescence quenching were determined in these various conditions. ITP hydrolysis also resulted in fluorescence quenching that was followed by a recovery of fluorescence intensity. Under conditions for single site catalysis, fluorescence quenching was observed upon the addition of ATP. This strongly indicates that fluorescence changes in the aurovertin-F1 complex are due to the binding and hydrolysis of ATP at a catalytic site. Therefore the resulting ADP molecule bound at this catalytic site possibly induces the fluorescence recovery observed. PMID- 2529257 TI - Function of a heterologous muscarinic receptor in T cell antigen receptor signal transduction mutants. AB - Previously we have described a system of somatic cell genetics (J.CaM1 and J.CaM2) for analyzing signal transduction via the T cell antigen receptor complex (CD3/Ti). Here we describe a third mutant, J.CaM3, which also expresses high levels of receptors that are functionally impaired. Like J.CaM1, J.CaM3 demonstrates partial signal transduction via CD3/Ti to only certain stimuli. J.CaM1, J.CaM2, and J.CaM3 define three non-Ti complementation groups involved in receptor function. To evaluate the mutations further we have introduced a heterologous receptor, the human muscarinic receptor 1 (HM1), into the parental Jurkat and mutant cell lines. This receptor demonstrates signal transduction competence in all these hosts, indicating that 1) T cells express the necessary apparatus for the coupling of HM1 to second messenger generation and 2) the mutations in the J.CaM family all affect molecules that are specific to CD3/Ti, and not HM1, function. Finally, the HM1 receptor exhibits partial sensitivity to cholera toxin in Jurkat cells, in contrast to the virtually complete sensitivity of CD3/Ti to cholera toxin. PMID- 2529258 TI - Characterizations of two distinct Ca2+-dependent phospholipid-binding proteins of 68-kDa isolated from human placenta. AB - Two distinct 68-kDa proteins, named 68K-I (pI 6.4) and 68K-II (pI 5.6), were solubilized from human placenta by treatment with 5 mM EGTA. On DE52 cellulose column chromatography at pH 7.4, 68K-I in the EGTA eluate was recovered in the unadsorbed fractions, whereas 68K-II was retained on the column and eluted with 0.2 M NaCl. The 68K-I protein was obtained in more than 95% purity by further hydroxylapatite and cation exchange chromatographies, while the 68K-II protein was purified further by gel filtration and hydroxylapatite chromatographies. Partial amino acid sequence data showed that 68K-I protein was a novel protein which shared the same sequences as lipocortin I and that 68K-II was the same as human p68/67-kDa calelectrin (Crompton, M. R., Owens, R. J., Totty, N. F., Moss, S. E., Waterfield, M.D., and Crumpton, M. J. (1988) EMBO J. 7, 21-27; Sudhof, T. C., Slaughter, C. A., Leznicki, I., Barjon, P., and Reynolds, G. A. (1988) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 85, 664-668). The two proteins bound to acidic phospholipids, phosphatidylserine, and/or phosphatidylinositol, but not to phosphatidylcholine, in the presence of micromolar levels of Ca2+. 68K-I bound to phosphatidylinositol preferentially to phosphatidylserine, whereas 68K-II bound only to phosphatidylserine. Both 68K-I and 68K-II inhibited phospholipase A2 activity, and the inhibition by 68K-II was detectable only in the presence of 100 mM KCl. 68K-I, but not 68K-II, was found to bind to F-actin in a Ca2+-dependent (1 mM) manner. Moreover 68K-I, but not 68K-II, was phosphorylated in vitro at tyrosine residues by fps kinase and by epidermal growth factor receptor/kinase, the latter reaction being dependent on Ca2+ and epidermal growth factor. Western blot analysis with affinity purified anti-68K-I and anti-68K-II antibodies showed that 68K-I was located in only certain tissues, especially human placenta, whereas 68K-II was present in many human and rat tissues. PMID- 2529259 TI - Isolation and characterization of the tyrosinase gene from Neurospora crassa. AB - A precursor form of Neurospora crassa tyrosinase has been identified by Western transfer from crude protein extracts and by immunoprecipitation of in vitro translated tyrosinase mRNA. The molecular weight of protyrosinase (75,000) exceeds that of mature tyrosinase (46,000) by about 50%. In order to deduce the primary structure and the nature of the extension, the tyrosinase gene was cloned. Poly(A) RNA isolated from tyrosinase-induced cultures of N. crassa was used as a template for cDNA synthesis, primed by a tyrosinase-specific, 32-fold degenerate heptadecanucleotide. Based on this sequence, a unique 21-mer was synthesized and used to screen a cDNA library constructed from tyrosinase enriched mRNA. A partial genomic DNA library from wild-type strain TS and a genomic library from strain OR were screened using a 400-base pair nick translated SalI fragment from a tyrosinase-positive cDNA clone as hybridization probe. The DNA sequences obtained revealed the presence of two allelic forms of this enzyme. The coding regions are interrupted by two short introns, of 52 and 99 base pairs. The encoded proteins differ in 3 out of 621 amino acid residues. A comparison of the deduced amino acid sequence with the known primary structure of mature tyrosinase alleles (Ruegg, C., Ammer, D., and Lerch, K. (1982) J. Biol. Chem. 257, 6420-6426) showed that the enzyme is synthesized as a precursor. Protyrosinase exceeds the mature protein by 213 amino acids at its carboxyl terminus. The possible involvement of carboxyl-terminal processing in enzyme activation is discussed. PMID- 2529260 TI - Escherichia coli helicase II (uvrD) protein can completely unwind fully duplex linear and nicked circular DNA. AB - We have examined the duplex DNA unwinding (helicase) properties of the Escherichia coli helicase II protein (uvrD gene product) over a wide range of protein concentrations and solution conditions using a variety of duplex DNA substrates including fully duplex blunt ended and nicked circular molecules. We find that helicase II protein is able to initiate on and completely unwind fully duplex DNA molecules without the requirement for a covalently attached 3' single stranded DNA tail. This DNA unwinding activity is dependent upon Mg2+ and ATP and requires that the amount of protein be in excess of that needed to saturate the resulting single-stranded DNA. Unwinding experiments on fully duplex blunt ended DNA with lengths of 341, 849, 1625, and 2671 base pairs indicate that unwinding occurs at the same high ratios of helicase II protein/nucleotide, independent of DNA length (50% unwinding requires approximately 0.6 helicase II monomers/nucleotide in 2.5 mM MgCl2, 10% glycerol, pH 7.5, 37 degrees C). Helicase II protein is also able to unwind completely a nicked circular DNA molecule containing 2671 base pairs. At lower but still high molar ratios of helicase II protein to DNA, duplex DNA molecules containing a single-stranded (ss) region attached to a 3' end of the duplex are preferentially unwound in agreement with the results obtained by S. W. Matson [1986) J. Biol. Chem. 261, 10169-10175). This preferential unwinding of duplex DNA with an attached 3' ssDNA most likely reflects the availability of a high affinity site (ssDNA) with the proper orientation for initiation; however, this may not reflect the type of DNA molecule upon which helicase II protein initiates DNA unwinding in vivo. The effects of changes in NaCl, NaCH3COO, and MgCl2 concentration on the ability of helicase II protein to unwind fully duplex DNA and duplex DNA with a 3' ssDNA tail have also been examined. Although the unwinding of fully duplex and nicked circular DNA molecules reported here occurs at higher helicase II protein to DNA ratios than have been previously used in most studies of this protein in vitro, this activity is likely to be relevant to the function of this protein in vivo since very high levels of helicase II protein accumulate in E. coli during the SOS response to DNA damage (approximately 2-5 x 10(4) copies/cell).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2529261 TI - Evidence that platelet glycoprotein IIIa has a large disulfide-bonded loop that is susceptible to proteolytic cleavage. AB - The proteolytic digestion of GPIIIa on intact platelets by chymotrypsin, thrombin, plasmin, trypsin, and staphylococcal V8 protease was monitored in immunoblot studies employing three different antibodies to GPIIIa, one of which was made against a 13-residue synthetic peptide containing the amino terminus of GPIIIa. Chymotrypsin, plasmin, and trypsin gave similar patterns, from which it could be inferred that the major products after extensive digestion were two chain molecules composed of amino-terminal fragments of Mr approximately 17,000 18,000 disulfide bonded to carboxyl-terminal remnants of Mr approximately 58,000 70,000. These patterns suggest that GPIIIa contains a large disulfide-bonded loop of at least 325 amino acids that is susceptible to proteolytic cleavage, and that the 4 cysteine residues between residues 177 and 273 bond with each other. Such a structure can also account for the presence of the PIA1 epitope, which has recently been localized to a polymorphism at position 33 on these late digestion products. Thrombin did not proteolyze GPIIIa even at 2.5 units/ml. Still to be resolved is whether the minor immunoreactive GPIIIa bands found on normal platelets are related to in vivo or in vitro proteolysis and whether GPIIIa proteolysis plays a role in chymotrypsin-induced exposure of the GPIIb/IIIa receptor. PMID- 2529262 TI - Translocation arrest by reversible folding of a precursor protein imported into mitochondria. A means to quantitate translocation contact sites. AB - Passage of precursor proteins through translocation contact sites of mitochondria was investigated by studying the import of a fusion protein consisting of the NH2 terminal 167 amino acids of yeast cytochrome b2 precursor and the complete mouse dihydrofolate reductase. Isolated mitochondria of Neurospora crassa readily imported the fusion protein. In the presence of methotrexate import was halted and a stable intermediate spanning both mitochondrial membranes at translocation contact sites accumulated. The complete dihydrofolate reductase moiety in this intermediate was external to the outer membrane, and the 136 amino acid residues of the cytochrome b2 moiety remaining after cleavage by the matrix processing peptidase spanned both outer and inner membranes. Removal of methotrexate led to import of the intermediate retained at the contact site into the matrix. Thus unfolding at the surface of the outer mitochondrial membrane is a prerequisite for passage through translocation contact sites. The membrane-spanning intermediate was used to estimate the number of translocation sites. Saturation was reached at 70 pmol intermediate per milligram of mitochondrial protein. This amount of translocation intermediates was calculated to occupy approximately 1% of the total surface of the outer membrane. The morphometrically determined area of close contact between outer and inner membranes corresponded to approximately 7% of the total outer membrane surface. Accumulation of the intermediate inhibited the import of other precursor proteins suggesting that different precursor proteins are using common translocation contact sites. We conclude that the machinery for protein translocation into mitochondria is present at contact sites in limited number. PMID- 2529263 TI - Origin and deposition of basement membrane heparan sulfate proteoglycan in the developing intestine. AB - The deposition of intestinal heparan sulfate proteoglycan (HSPG) at the epithelial-mesenchymal interface and its cellular source have been studied by immunocytochemistry at various developmental stages and in rat/chick interspecies hybrid intestines. Polyclonal heparan sulfate antibodies were produced by immunizing rabbits with HSPG purified from the Engelbreth-Holm-Swarm mouse tumor; these antibodies stained rat intestinal basement membranes. A monoclonal antibody (mAb 4C1) produced against lens capsule of 11-d-old chick embryo reacted with embryonic or adult chick basement membranes, but did not stain that of rat tissues. Immunoprecipitation experiments indicated that mAb 4C1 recognized the chicken basement membrane HSPG. Immunofluorescent staining with these antibodies allowed us to demonstrate that distribution of HSPG at the epithelial-mesenchymal interface varied with the stages of intestinal development, suggesting that remodeling of this proteoglycan is essential for regulating cell behavior during morphogenesis. The immunofluorescence pattern obtained with the two species specific HSPG antibodies in rat/chick epithelial/mesenchymal hybrid intestines developed as grafts (into the coelomic cavity of chick embryos or under the kidney capsule of adult mice) led to the conclusion that HSPG molecules located in the basement membrane of the developing intestine were produced exclusively by the epithelial cells. These data emphasize the notion already gained from previous studies, in which type IV collagen has been shown to be produced by mesenchymal cells (Simon-Assmann, P., F. Bouziges, C. Arnold, K. Haffen, and M. Kedinger. 1988. Development (Camb.). 102:339-347), that epithelial-mesenchymal interactions play an important role in the formation of a complete basement membrane. PMID- 2529264 TI - Suppression of serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate levels by insulin: an evaluation of possible mechanisms. AB - We previously demonstrated a progressive decline in serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) levels in women during a hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp. To determine whether this fall in serum DHEA-S levels might have been due to insulin stimulated 1) hydrolysis of DHEA-S to dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), 2) conversion of DHEA-S/DHEA to androstenedione, and/or 3) urinary excretion of these steroids, 10 additional men were studied by the hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp technique. Each man received a 0.1 U/kg (0.72 nmol/kg) insulin bolus dose, followed by a 10 mU/kg.min (72 pmol/kg.min) insulin infusion for 4 h. An average insulin level of 12,390 +/- 259 (+/- SE) pmol/L (1,726.8 +/- 36 microU/mL) was achieved; serum glucose was maintained at 5.0 +/- 0.1 mmol/L (90.5 +/- 2.3 mg/dL). During the hyperinsulinemia, serum DHEA-S levels fell progressively and were significantly lower than baseline at 4 and 6 h of study (85.5 +/- 5.9% and 79.1 +/- 3.2% of baseline values, respectively; P less than 0.05). Serum DHEA levels fell concurrently and were significantly lower than baseline at 2, 4, and 6 h of study (66.2 +/- 12.3%, 61.6 +/- 11.2%, and 52.9 +/- 10.2% of baseline values, respectively; P less than 0.05). The percent fall in serum DHEA levels correlated positively with the percent fall in serum DHEA-S levels (r = 0.44; P less than 0.02). Serum androstenedione levels also fell progressively during hyperinsulinemia and were significantly lower than baseline at 2, 4, and 6 h of study (71.5 +/- 4.1%, 71.0 +/- 7.2%, and 48.1 +/- 3.3% of baseline values, respectively; P less than 0.05). No change in serum DHEA-S, DHEA, or androstenedione levels occurred in paired control studies, during which 0.45% saline was infused at rates matched exactly to the rates of the dextrose and insulin infusions during the hyperinsulinemic clamp studies. Despite decreasing serum DHEA-S and DHEA levels during hyperinsulinemia, urinary DHEA-S and DHEA glucuronide excretions were increased by 50% (P less than 0.05) and 86% (P = 0.05), respectively, compared to urinary excretion of these steroids during control studies. In contrast, urinary excretion of unconjugated DHEA was unchanged. Quantitatively, however, increased urinary excretion of conjugated DHEA during hyperinsulinemia accounted for only about 5% of the concomitant fall in serum DHEA-S concentrations.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2529265 TI - Metabolic clearance rate (MCR) of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DS), its metabolism to dehydroepiandrosterone, androstenedione, testosterone, and dihydrotestosterone, and the effect of increased plasma DS concentration on DS MCR in normal women. AB - The combined infusion of [3H]dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate [( 3H]DS) and [14C]estrone (E1) for 6 h in four normal women in the follicular phase of the cycle demonstrated values of 13.77 +/- 0.27 L/day (mean +/- SE) for the DS MCR (MCRDS) and 1343 +/- 206 L/day for MCRE1. The fraction of DS metabolized to dehydroepiandrosterone (D), [rho]DS-D, was 0.285 +/- 0.044, and the fraction of D arising from DS (delta D) was 0.318 +/- 0.096, determined using isotopic techniques. Raising the plasma DS concentration by 8.6 micrograms/mL (23 mumol/L) by infusing DS iv increased the MCRDS to 24.49 L/day in the first subject, and raising the plasma DS by 11.40 +/- 0.33 micrograms/mL (30.94 +/- 0.90 mumol/L) in the next three subjects raised the MCRDS to 35.7 +/- 1.3 L/day (P less than 0.01) without changing the MCRE1. The increase in MCRDS produced by increasing plasma DS makes it difficult to accurately measure the MCRDS in effect at the subject's endogenous plasma DS concentration by infusion of nonisotopic DS. Determination of the fractions of D, androstenedione (delta delta 4A), and testosterone (T) arising from DS using the increase in the plasma concentrations of these steroids produced by infusion of nonisotopic DS gave the following estimates: delta D = 0.262 +/- 0.042, delta delta 4A = 0.089 +/- 0.046, and delta T = 0.273 +/- 0.14. PMID- 2529266 TI - A new test of combined pituitary-testicular function using the gonadotropin releasing hormone agonist nafarelin in the differentiation of gonadotropin deficiency from delayed puberty: pilot studies. AB - There is evidence that the capacity to synthesize gonadotropins is less in teenage boys with gonadotropin deficiency (GD) than in those with constitutional delay of puberty (DP). We hypothesized that this might predispose the latter group to have a greater pituitary-testicular response to the potent long-acting GnRH agonist nafarelin. We evaluated GD patients 14.3-24.0 yr of age (n = 8) and prepubertal DP boys 14.8-17.6 yr of age (n = 3). In most subjects the response to nafarelin was compared to that of frequent nocturnal blood sampling for LH and testosterone levels. All subjects received a single dose of nafarelin (1.0 micrograms/kg, sc), and blood was then sampled at 0.5- to 4.0-h intervals for 24 h. Patients with GD could not be distinguished from those with DP by pubertal staging criteria or by baseline values of LH, FSH, or testosterone. Patients with GD exhibited no rise in plasma LH levels during sleep, in contrast to those with DP. All GD patients had LH and FSH responses distinctly less than those of the DP group between 3-24 h postnafarelin. The peak incremental responses of GD and DP to nafarelin were, respectively: LH, 5.5 +/- 2 3 (+/- SEM and 77.2 +/- 8.6 IU/L (P less than 0.02); FSH, 2.7 +/- 1.2 and 9.4 +/- 0.8 IU/L (P less than 0.005). Testosterone peak responses were lower as well (0.26 +/- 0.2 vs 1.6 +/- 0.5 nmol/L, P = 0.05). This pilot study suggests that the response to a single test dose of nafarelin distinguishes GD from DP in the teenage years as well as does measurement of nocturnal LH levels. The testosterone response to the GnRH agonist adds a new dimension to GnRH testing. Nafarelin also allows assessment of the bioactivity of endogenous gonadotropin, is a more potent stimulus of pituitary testicular function than endogenous GnRH secretion, and is more cost-effective than nocturnal sampling. PMID- 2529267 TI - Nonoperative treatment for painful adolescent spondylolysis or spondylolisthesis. AB - Eighty-two adolescent patients with symptomatic spondylolysis or spondylolisthesis were treated by nonoperative modalities. Patients' ages ranged from 6.5 to 21 years, and follow-up ranged from 1 to 14.3 years. Thirty-one patients became asymptomatic, 17 had significant but incomplete relief of pain, nine had no relief, and 25 required surgical treatment for pain. Of 12 patients with grade 3 or 4 slip, only one had significant relief of pain, whereas 48 of 70 patients with lesser degrees of slip had significant relief of pain. Nonoperative treatment of degrees of spondylolisthesis of less than or equal to grade 2 can reliably relieve pain in two-thirds of patients. PMID- 2529270 TI - A Lyme/syphilis serology scenario sizzler!! PMID- 2529269 TI - Bilateral slowly progressive big blind spot syndrome. AB - A 33-year-old woman was found with bilateral enlargement of the blind spot without optic disc edema. Her bilateral peripapillary retinas appeared slightly decolored and elevated with obscure margins and fluorescein angiography indicating only slight hyperfluorescence in the late venous phase. Four years after her initial visit, both of her blind spots became enlarged further and dark adaptation was remarkably difficult. Peripapillary retinal lesions appearing as retinal pigmentary degeneration were evident with very definitive margins. The lesions showed strong hyperfluorescence in the arteriovenous phase owing to window defects. From these findings, it appears that bilateral big blind spots without optic disc edema may possibly result from peripapillary retinal degeneration, which may become evident at a much later date. PMID- 2529268 TI - The preS1 antigen of hepatitis B virus is highly immunogenic at the T cell level in man. AB - 14 hepatitis B vaccine recipients who showed high titers of anti-hepatitis B surface antibodies in serum after booster immunization with a polyvalent hepatitis B surface antigen vaccine that contained trace amounts of hepatitis B virus (HBV) preS1 and preS2 envelope antigens were studied for their in vitro T cell response to these antigens. All 14 subjects displayed a significant proliferative T cell response to the S/p25 envelope region encoded polypeptide; 8 also responded to preS1, while only 1 showed a significant level of T cell proliferation to preS2. Limiting dilution analysis demonstrated that the frequency of preS-specific T cells in two of these vaccine recipients was higher than that of S/p25-specific T cells. T cell cloning was then performed and a total of 29 HBV envelope antigen-reactive CD4+ cloned lines were generated from two preS-responsive vaccines. 21 of these lines were S/p25 specific, 7 preS1 specific, and 1 preS2 specific. Taken together, all these results suggest that the preS1 antigen may function as a strong T cell immunogen in man. PMID- 2529272 TI - Septo-optic dysplasia (SOD) or DeMorsier syndrome. AB - The historical evolution of the DeMorsier syndrome is reviewed. As the emphasis shifted from the eye findings to endocrinological defects and as the syndrome was further expanded through more frequent and easier radiological examination, the concept appears to have expanded, raising questions as to the nature of the disease and its clinical expression. To determine pathogenesis and better define the extent of the disease, further observations are needed, including postmortem studies on patients with septo-optic dysplasia and related disorders. PMID- 2529271 TI - The prevalence of Lyme disease in a nonendemic area. A comparative serologic study in a south Florida eye clinic population. AB - Serologic tests for Lyme borreliosis and for syphilis were performed on 75 patients seen in a 1-week period at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute in Miami. The incident of syphilis was 8% and of Lyme borreliosis 3% in this study in a nonendemic area. The most common cause for a high titer serologic response for Lyme borreliosis in this group was a prior Treponema pallidum infection. The importance of getting VDRL, FTA-ABS, Lyme IFA, and Lyme ELISA tests in all suspected cases was emphasized. PMID- 2529274 TI - Arteriovenous malformation of the posterior ethmoidal artery as an unusual cause of amaurosis fugax. The ophthalmic steal syndrome. AB - We report the case of a patient with arteriovenous malformation fed by a posterior ethmoidal artery. The pre-operative amaurotic attacks on the diseased eye subsided after removal of the malformation. Doppler sonographic examination of the peripheral ophthalmic artery showed an inversion of the blood flow direction postoperatively. We describe a concept of an ophthalmic steal syndrome treated in this patient by removal of an arteriovenous malformation. PMID- 2529273 TI - Cavernous angiomas of the anterior visual pathways. AB - Three patients with cavernomas of the optic nerve, chiasm, or optic tract are presented. All suffered progressive visual loss due to local hemorrhage and the space-occupying effects of the vascular malformation. Computed tomography scans revealed small lesions with mild contrast enhancement in the suprasellar and parasellar cisterns, whereas angiography was unremarkable. Magnetic resonance imaging was helpful in our cases both for diagnosis and for planning surgical approach, showing typical signs of cavernomas as confirmed by subsequent surgery and histological examination. The clinical and intraoperative findings are presented. PMID- 2529275 TI - Rhythmic pupillary oscillations accompanying a complete third-nerve palsy. AB - An automobile accident left a 26-year-old man in stupor with a complete right third-nerve palsy. Although fixed to light, the right pupil (only) exhibited continual concentric oscillations, initially at 1 Hz but slowing to 0.3 Hz during 2 weeks' observation. The pathophysiologic characteristics of this unique movement are uncertain but may involve central parasympathetic nervous system dysfunction. PMID- 2529277 TI - Exercise-induced transient visual events in young healthy adults. AB - Six patients with a variety of exercise-induced transient visual events are described. Each patient was in excellent health and most exercised regularly. None of the patients had a history of migraine, and only one gave a history of migraine in the family. One patient reported a single event, and the others reported recurrent events. These recurrent visual events were stereotyped except in one patient who experienced two distinctly different visual phenomena. Two patients described classic scintillating scotomas. Two described flickering phenomena in the central vision. Three described monocular events: one reported central scotomas, another blurring in the temporal field, and the third reported amaurosis. In no case could it be established that these events were associated with underlying disease. We believe that exercise-induced migraine equivalents are the most plausible explanation for these transient visual symptoms. PMID- 2529276 TI - Bilateral optic disc colobomas with orbital cysts and hypoplastic optic nerves and chiasm. AB - A 3-month-old boy with bilateral optic disc colobomas and orbital cysts is presented. Both eyes appeared relatively normal in size. Ultrasonography on one side demonstrated a communication between the globe and cyst by way of the optic disc coloboma. On computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, the cysts' contents were similar to vitreous. The optic nerves and chiasm appeared markedly hypoplastic on neuroimaging tests. Fluorescein angiography, electroretinography, and visual evoked responses suggested that the visual deficit primarily was ascribable to optic nerve or anterior visual pathway dysfunction. PMID- 2529278 TI - Ophthalmoplegic migraine with superior ramus oculomotor paresis. AB - We report a 13-year-old girl with recurrent paroxysmal superior division oculomotor palsy as a manifestation of ophthalmoplegic migraine. Neurodiagnostic tests (including head computed tomography scan, cerebral angiography, and Tensilon tests) were normal. This case demonstrates that ophthalmoplegic migraine may selectively affect superior division fibers of the oculomotor nerve. PMID- 2529279 TI - Amaurosis fugax. An overview. AB - Amaurosis fugax is an all-inclusive term for all forms of transient visual loss. Clinically, it can be divided into four identifiable symptom complexes, each with its underlying pathoetiology: embolic, hypoperfusion, angiospasm, and unknown. PMID- 2529281 TI - Venous stasis retinopathy of stenotic or occlusive carotid origin. AB - Venous stasis retinopathy is an uncommon sign of carotid artery obstruction. It is found in those patients who have very severe stenosis, or complete occlusion, of the arterial lumen. Affected patients usually have advanced multivessel disease with compromise of both carotid arteries. The retinopathy is ipsilateral to the more severely compromised artery; it is caused by progressive, chronic hypoxic injury to retinal tissues, which causes an ophthalmoscopic picture of venous dilation and tortuosity, retinal hemorrhages, macular edema, and eventual neovascular proliferation. The retinal findings are quite similar to those found in diabetic retinopathy, except for unilaterality corresponding to the more obstructed artery and early onset in the retinal midzone rather than the posterior pole. The primary treatment is panretinal photocoagulation to ischemic areas, followed by either medical or surgical management of obstructive carotid disease or carotid endarterectomy alone. PMID- 2529280 TI - The significance of retinal emboli. AB - This review contrasts two of the more common forms of retinal emboli, i.e., cholesterol emboli and calcific emboli. These two forms vary in ophthalmoscopic appearance and in regard to significance. PMID- 2529282 TI - Anterior segment ischemia secondary to carotid occlusive disease. AB - The ischemic signs of carotid occlusive disease in the anterior segment can be summarized as follows: vasodilation in the conjunctiva, episclera, and iris; neovascularization in the iris and the anterior chamber angle with consequent neovascular glaucoma, with or without elevation of intraocular pressure; and noninflammatory uveitis with corneal edema, keratitic precipitates, flare and cells in the anterior chamber, and late development of cataract. A questionnaire was sent to neuro-ophthalmology and glaucoma specialists regarding their perceptions of this condition. On average, approximately 1 case per specialist per year was seen. One third of the respondents had seen significant ocular pressure increase in patients with rubeosis following successful vascular surgery. Most felt that panretinal photocoagulation, though not as effective as in diabetic rubeosis, did cause regression of iris and angle neovascularization. The visual prognosis following all types of treatment was not good and was insufficient to justify a clear recommendation about the advisability of aggressive management of this condition. PMID- 2529283 TI - Noninvasive testing of suspected carotid artery disease. PMID- 2529284 TI - Ocular manifestations of carotid artery occlusive disease. Panel discussion. PMID- 2529285 TI - Trilateral retinoblastoma. PMID- 2529286 TI - Survey of conscious sedation practices in pediatric dentistry advanced residency programs. PMID- 2529287 TI - Keratoma hereditaria mutilans (Vohwinkel's disease) with congenital alopecia universalis (atrichia congenita). AB - A family is described in which a boy and two girls had features of keratoma hereditaria mutilans (Vohwinkel's disease) and congenital absence of hair. None of them had any hair at birth or developed any subsequently. They had congenital, nonscarring alopecia universalis. The skin over the palms and soles showed progressive thickening, which led to mutilating deformities of the hands and fingers. Histopathological examination of the scalp skin revealed no changes in the epidermis or dermis with normal sebaceous glands and identify hair structures; the skin on the palms showed a tremendously thickened horny layer. Both conditions remained unresponsive to various topical and systemic remedies used in the past. One of the girls had a meningocoele of the dorsolumbar region and died postoperatively. The simultaneous appearance of two rare hereditary diseases in siblings of one family is being reported for the first time. PMID- 2529288 TI - Clinical predictors of eventual suicide: a 5- to 10-year prospective study of suicide attempters. AB - The Beck Depression Inventory, Hopelessness scale, and Suicidal Intent scale (SIS) scores of 413 patients, who were hospitalized for suicide attempts (attempters) between 1970 and 1975 and followed until 1982, were used in multiple logistic regression analyses to predict the risk of eventually committing suicide. Out of 10 clinical and demographic characteristics chosen to control for possible confounding with the scales, only a diagnosis of alcoholism predicted eventual suicide. The risk of the alcoholics eventually committing suicide was over five times greater than that of the non-alcoholics. Controlling for confounding with unemployment and a diagnosis of alcoholism, the SIS Precautions subscale was also found to predict eventual suicide. The risk of committing suicide rose 67% with each point that the Precautions scale increased. The 20 (4.8%) attempters who eventually killed themselves had described taking more precautions against discovery at the time of their index attempt than the 393 (95.2%) who did not commit suicide. PMID- 2529289 TI - Regional cerebral blood flow in depression: associations with psychopathology. AB - Regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) was measured during rest and cognitive activation in 21 patients with a major depressive episode and 21 healthy subjects. Depressive patients had significantly lower rCBF during rest in the right global, frontal, parietal, occipital and temporal regions and in the left global and frontal regions. During mental activation patients showed significantly lower values in all right and left parietal regions. rCBF was correlated with the scores of the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS), the parietal regions. rCBF was correlated with the scores of the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS), the Bech-Rafaelsen Melancholia Scale (BRMS), the Hamilton Depression Scale (HAM-D) and the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAM-A). The most significant negative correlations were obtained with the BPRS. Correlation analyses between each single item of the BPRS and CBF values revealed the strongest associations between emotional withdrawal and decreased CBF. Patients with 'reactive' features had higher CBF than patients without 'reactive' symptoms. Only patients without 'reactive' symptoms had a lower CBF than controls. 'Endogenous' features had no impact on CBF. PMID- 2529290 TI - Validity of adjustment disorder, comparison with major depression. AB - Twenty inpatients suffering from an adjustment disorder with depressed mood according to the DSM-III criteria were compared with 22 inpatients with a (situationally provoked) major depression without an additional DSM-III/axis I diagnosis, with regard to expert- and self-rated symptomatology, social dysfunction and personality features. Furthermore, social support prior to admission was described. Subjects who had developed an adjustment disorder had less severe depressive symptomatology, associated social dysfunction and premorbid rigidity, and they remitted faster. Social support for both groups was similar to that of healthy controls. PMID- 2529291 TI - Previous pattern of course of the illness as a predictor of response to lithium prophylaxis in bipolar patients. AB - The response to lithium prophylaxis was assessed in a sample of bipolar patients subdivided into the following groups on the basis of the previous pattern of course of their illness: MDI (sequence mania-depression-free interval), DMI (sequence depression-mania-free interval), CC-LC (continuous circular course with long cycles), CC-RC (continuous circular course with rapid cycles), IRR (irregular course). A significant reduction of the mean number of morbid episodes and of the mean total morbidity during lithium treatment was observed only in patients with a previous MDI or IRR course. The percentage of responders to prophylaxis was significantly different among the five groups, and the difference could be mainly ascribed to the high response rate in the MDI group and the low response rate in the DMI and CC-RC groups. These results suggest that the classification of bipolar patients according to the previous pattern of course of their illness may be useful for the prediction of lithium response. PMID- 2529292 TI - Transient post-partum thyroid dysfunction and postnatal depression. AB - In the course of a population study of thyroid dysfunction in pregnancy and the post-partum period, 65 women, considered to be antibody-positive (microsomal and thyroglobulin), and 82 antibody-negative women were assessed for postnatal depression at 6-8 weeks post partum. The women were also assessed for the development of post-partum thyroid dysfunction. Of the 147 women, 22 met DSM-III criteria for major depression. The presence of autoantibodies showed little association with depressed mood but there was a minor association of postnatal depression with actual thyroid dysfunction in that incidence of the latter condition was higher in depressed women (Raskin scale P less than 0.01; Edinburgh scale P less than 0.05; Montgomery-Asberg scale P less than 0.1). Three of eight mothers with thyroid dysfunction had major depression and were depressed on all three scales. PMID- 2529293 TI - Postpartum depression and postpartum adaptation: overlapping constructs? AB - In order to examine the course of normal postpartum adjustment compared to the symptomatology of postpartum depression, 25 postpartum women who met Research Diagnostic Criteria for either major or minor depression were compared to 24 non depressed postpartum women. The Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia (SADS) and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) were administered to all subjects. Results suggest that sleep disturbances and loss of sexual interest are common concomitants of normal postpartum adjustment. A discriminant function analysis indicated that the cognitive-affective symptoms of loss of energy, guilt, difficulties in concentration, and loss of interest in usual activities discriminated between depressed and non-depressed women most efficiently. Finally, there was a lack of concordance between the BDI and the SADS interviews, which suggests that the BDI may not be an appropriate instrument for diagnosing depression in a postpartum sample. PMID- 2529294 TI - Prediction of response of chronic depression to imipramine. AB - We had previously reported that imipramine was superior to placebo for the treatment of chronic depression. As a part of that study, we subsequently investigated clinical and demographic variables which might be associated with favorable or poor outcome for treatment with imipramine or placebo. Results are reported herein. Eight-six patients were entered and 53 completed an 8-week protocol. Outcome was assessed based on a 6-week, double-blind treatment phase, which followed a 2-week, single-blind placebo phase. Outcome was not found to significantly relate to demographic variables, severity or course of depression, diagnostic subtype, symptom profile, or DST results. Some modest associations were found between 'neurotic' personality traits and poor outcome. Results are discussed and compared with prior studies of prediction of tricyclic antidepressant response in both acute and chronic depressions. PMID- 2529295 TI - Response of panic disorder to fixed doses of alprazolam or imipramine. AB - This paper reports the results of a double-blind comparison of fixed daily doses of 6 mg of alprazolam, 2 mg of alprazolam, 225 mg of imipramine, and placebo for 8 weeks in 81 patients who met DSM-III criteria for panic disorder with or without agoraphobia. Final scores on eight clinical measures were analyzed from all patients who entered the study and from the subset who completed at least 4 weeks of treatment. Eighty-six percent of the high-dose alprazolam patients completed the study. Only 50% of the imipramine patients completed 8 weeks of treatment, apparently because of activation early in treatment and slow onset of therapeutic effects. This study confirmed the therapeutic effectiveness and safety of alprazolam, especially at the higher dose, in panic disorder. It also confirmed the therapeutic effectiveness of imipramine among patients who tolerated the drug. It suggested the usefulness of a flexible, individual approach to dose escalation with imipramine. Methodologically the study underscored the importance of using multiple approaches to the analysis of clinical data from therapeutic trials of psychotropic agents with complex effects that may contribute to patients' premature termination. PMID- 2529297 TI - Neuroendocrine investigation in children and adolescents with dysthymic disorders: the DST, TRH and clonidine tests. AB - A neuroendocrine study was conducted in eight children and adolescents with dysthymic disorders (three females and five males) and in eight age- and sex matched psychologically normal controls. The dexamethasone suppression test (DST), TSH and GH responses to TRH stimulation and GH response to clonidine stimulation were studied in parallel in each patient. Depressive symptomatology was monitored with the Poznanski Rating Scale. The DST, TRH and clonidine tests revealed normal responses in each patient. TRH induced abnormal GH rises in five of the eight patients. There were no correlations between neuroendocrine parameters and degree of depression, age, sex or weight of the patients, age of onset, duration and family history of the disease. PMID- 2529296 TI - Persistent cortisol non-suppression after clinical recovery predicts symptomatic relapse in unipolar depression. AB - We assessed the length and the quality of remission of 13 unipolar endogenous depressed patients, DST non-suppressors before treatment, in a 2-year prospective study. During this period, we recorded stressful life events. Persistent dexamethasone non-suppression, after treatment and complete clinical recovery, correlated highly with early clinical relapse. All six non-normalizers but only one normalizer were rehospitalized within the following 2 years for a major depressive relapse. Persistent DST non-suppression was unrelated to any impact of drug discontinuation, the occurrence of stressful life events or the length of illness-free intervals in the patient's prior course of illness. Persistent DST non-suppression appears to have significant prognostic value. PMID- 2529298 TI - The daily course of the symptomatology and the impaired time estimation in endogenous depression (melancholia). AB - The importance of 'typical' diurnal variations in mood (depression worse in the morning) as a diagnostic criterion of endogenous depression has been challenged in previous investigations. Disturbance in time experience may contribute towards an understanding of diurnal variation in depressive symptomatology. To examine this hypothesis a series of time estimation experiments was conducted in the course of the day. Twenty-five endogenous depressive patients (according to ICD 9) and 12 healthy controls were asked to estimate prospectively a 30-s interval on two successive days at 7.30 a.m., 11.30 a.m., 3.30 p.m. and 7.30 p.m. Simultaneously the subjects assessed their state of well-being using a visual analogue mood scale. A circadian rhythm of time estimation errors could not be detected; even in daily courses with 'typical' diurnal variations an increasingly favourable self-assessment of well-being was not accompanied by a corresponding diurnal fluctuation of time estimation. These results cast additional doubts on the significance of 'typical' diurnal variations in depressive symptomatology. PMID- 2529299 TI - Unpleasant taste--a neglected symptom in depression. AB - Of 47 depressed patients, 19 reported the symptom of unpleasant taste. This symptom appeared unrelated to previous drug treatment. Also, in this study, there was no significant association with prognosis, severity or type of depression, or with various historical factors. Despite this, it would seem to be an underreported symptom, worthy of further investigation. PMID- 2529300 TI - Principles governing the prosthodontic treatment of patients with cardiac transplants. AB - As the survival rate of patients with cardiac transplants improves, it is more likely that dentists will have to provide extensive dental care and it is important to know the special precautions that must be taken when treating these patients. In this report on the prosthodontic treatment of a patient with a cardiac transplant and an unstable medical history, specific dental management guidelines are proposed. The treatment illustrates an alternative to complex and prolonged restorative treatment for patients with compromised post-transplant recovery. PMID- 2529301 TI - Committee report on economic, administrative and legal factors influencing the insurability and employability of patients with ischemic heart disease. PMID- 2529302 TI - The spoof factor. PMID- 2529303 TI - Lymphocyte subpopulations in children with abnormal lymphatic circulation. AB - Peripheral blood lymphocyte subsets were enumerated in five children with abnormal lymphatic circulation (three with lymphangiectasia, one with chylothorax, and one child with chyloperitoneum). All patients were lymphopenic. The percentage and absolute number of blood T-lymphocytes (CD3) were low in two children and normal in the other children. The percentage and absolute number of helper/inducer lymphocytes (CD4) were markedly reduced in all patients. The percentage of suppressor/cytotoxic lymphocytes (CD8) was normal or elevated in all children, and the absolute number of CD8 cells was normal in three patients. The CD4/CD8 ratio was reversed in all patients. In the two patients tested, the proliferative response of peripheral blood mononuclear cells to mitogens was reduced. T-lymphocyte subsets were measured in the pleural or peritoneal fluid of three patients, and the CD4/CD8 ratio was normal or increased. In each child, the CD4/CD8 ratio in the lymphatic fluids was markedly higher than the CD4/CD8 ratio of the blood (4.0/0.45, 1.75/0.95, and 1.3/0.85). The reversed CD4/CD8 ratio in the blood in cases of chronic loss of chyle may be due to either selective transport of CD4 lymphocytes into the lymphatic fluids or a shorter half-life of CD8 compared to CD4 lymphocytes. This finding may in part explain the abnormal cellular immunity previously observed in patients with lymphangiectasia. PMID- 2529304 TI - The uses of intravenous immune globulin in collagen vascular disorders. AB - Studies in our laboratory demonstrated that the long-term administration of intravenous immune serum globulin in patients with common variable hypogammaglobulinemia produced increased suppressor activity, which resulted in diminished in vitro B cell immunoglobulin synthesis. These studies suggested that intravenous immune globulin therapy might be a useful modality in altering immunoregulation in patients with collagen vascular autoimmune disease. In the present preliminary study, two groups of patients with collagen vascular disease were chosen: systemic lupus erythematosus and primary Sjogren's syndrome. Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus with mild clinical disease were chosen to minimize the risk of adverse effects on the disease process, particularly specific organ involvement (e.g., lupus nephritis). Each patient was used as his or her own clinical and laboratory control. Patients received 300 mg/kg of intravenous immune globulin every 4 weeks. As a whole the patient group did not experience any adverse effects from the intravenous immune globulin therapy. No clinical or laboratory changes were observed in one patient with systemic lupus erythematosus and one patient with Sjogren's syndrome. In the other patient with Sjogren's syndrome, there were subjective changes of improved well-being and increased energy levels without any objective changes in the sicca syndrome. There was a slight steroid-sparing effect (10 to 3 mg/day) but no effects on the sedimentation rate, the antinuclear antibody, or rheumatoid factor serologic studies. In a patient with steroid-dependent systemic lupus erythematosus, there was marked clinical improvement of the cutaneous vasculitis after the third infusion, with reduction in her oral steroid requirements from 25 to 7.5 mg/day.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2529305 TI - Ganglioglomerular nerves influence responsiveness of cat carotid body chemoreceptors to almitrine. AB - A bolus injection of almitrine bismesylate (0.5 mg.kg-1 i.v.) in anaesthetised artificially ventilated cats caused a significantly greater increase in carotid chemosensory discharge in animals with sectioned ipsilateral ganglioglomerular sympathetic nerves in comparison with a group in which these nerves were intact. Plasma levels of almitrine were similar in both groups. Responses to hypoxia and hypercapnia post-almitrine were also bigger if the ganglioglomerular nerves were cut. Domperidone (10-50 micrograms.kg-1 i.a), a dopamine D2 receptor antagonist, greatly increaed the responsiveness of chemoreceptors to almitrine in ganglioglomerular nerve-intact preparations. Almitrine-induced chemosensory activity was unaffected by illuminating the carotid bifurcation with light from a fibre optic lamp, regardless of whether or not the ganglioglomerular nerves were cut. It is concluded that almitrine may directly or indirectly activate an efferent pathway in the ganglioglomerular nerves to cause depression of chemoreceptor activity, possibly by releasing dopamine to act at D2 dopamine receptors in the carotid body. PMID- 2529306 TI - Effects of synthetic atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) on renin-aldosterone axis in the conscious newborn calf. AB - The effects of synthetic atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) on the renin-aldosterone axis were studied in fifteen 4-7 day-old male milk-fed calves divided into 3 groups of 5 animals each. Synthetic ANF intravenous (i.v.) administration (1.6 micrograms/kg body wt over 30 min) induced a transient significant fall in plasma renin activity (from 2.5 +/- 0.3 to 1.7 +/- 0.3 ng angiotensin l/ml/h; P less than 0.05) but failed to reduce basal plasma aldosterone levels in the first group of animals. Administration (i.v.) of angiotensin II (AII) (0.8 micrograms/kg body wt for 75 min) was accompanied by a progressive fall in plasma renin activity (from 2.2 +/- 0.3 to 0.8 +/- 0.1 ng angiotensin l/ml/h; P less than 0.01) and by an increase in plasma aldosterone levels (from 55 +/- 3 to 86 +/- 5 pg/ml; P less than 0.01) both in the second and the third groups; addition of ANF to AII infusion (AII: 0.5 mu/kg body wt for 45 min; AII: 0.3 micrograms/kg body wt and ANF 1.6 micrograms/kg body wt during 30 min) in the third group did not modify plasma renin activity or AII-stimulated plasma aldosterone levels when compared to the AII-treated group. These findings show that in the newborn calf ANF is able to reduce plasma renin activity but fails to affect basal and AII stimulated plasma aldosterone levels, suggesting that the zona glomerulosa of the newborn adrenal cortex is insensitive to a diuretic, natriuretic and hypotensive dose of the atrial peptide. PMID- 2529307 TI - Effects of atrial natriuretic factor on maternal ovine vascular resistance. AB - Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) is a potent endogenous vaso-dilator and diuretic peptide of uncertain physiologic relevance. In this study, the effects of ANF on normal and angiotensin II constricted placental, uterine and renal vessels were examined in pregnant sheep. Ewes were equipped with catheters to monitor vascular pressures, infuse drugs and measure blood flow by the microsphere technique. An electromagnetic flow sensor was placed around the middle uterine artery and electromyogram electrodes were attached to the uterus. ANF was administered into a branch of the uterine artery to minimize its systemic effects. The experiment included two protocols. First, blood flows and pressures were measured after a 5 min period of saline infusion into the uterine artery. These measurements were repeated at the end of a 5-min infusion of ANF (6.25 micrograms.min-1) into the uterine artery. During the second protocol, angiotensin II (AII) was infused via the jugular vein at 5 micrograms.min-1 for 10 min and ANF (6.25 micrograms.min-1) was infused through the uterine artery during the second half of the AII infusion. In the absence of AII, ANF lowered blood pressure from 97 +/- 6 to 90 +/- 6 mmHg (P less than 0.05); and placental resistance from 67.8 +/- 11.3 to 57.3 +/- 10.4 mmHg.min.ml-1 per g (P less than 0.01). Uterine resistance did not change.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2529308 TI - Enzyme polymorphism in Schistosoma mattheei from cattle in the Eastern Transvaal Lowveld. AB - Enzyme electrophoresis was conducted on 10 Schistosoma mattheei adult worm samples, comprising 270 individuals, collected from cattle in the Eastern Transvaal Lowveld. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) was studied in all the samples and phosphoglucomutase (PGM) and malate dehydrogenase (MDH) in five populations each. Only one population was polymorphic for G6PDH. In this population, in addition to the allele found in all the other samples, a second allele occurred with a similar Rf value to S. haematobium. The two alleles were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. MDH-1 exhibited two alleles. However, these alleles were not in equilibrium. In certain populations, heterozygotes occurred together with homozygotes of one of the alleles only. PGM was monomorphic in all the populations studied. PMID- 2529309 TI - Limb salvage in high-risk patients with multisegmental disease. AB - Is percutaneous iliac angioplasty before distal bypass a logical limb salvage option in a high-risk patient? A retrospective review of 113 iliac angioplasty procedures identified 10 patients in this situation. Angioplasty preceded femoropopliteal bypass (five), femorotibial bypass (three) and, in one case each, femorofemoral bypass or profundoplasty. There were no interventional deaths or complications. Ankle/brachial pressure index improvement followed intervention: 0.28 + 0.2 vs. 0.92 + 0.08, (p less than 0.0005). Limb salvage was 90% at one month, 80% at six months and 70% at one to three years by Life-Table analysis. Two patients with a patent bypass lost limbs from uncontrolled infection within two months. One patient required an amputation 311 days after the only failure of angioplasty and distal bypass. During this study period, 56% of the patients died. This review supports an angioplasty/bypass combined intervention as a valuable treatment option in high-risk patients facing limb loss. PMID- 2529310 TI - Sexual dimorphism of blood pressure in spontaneously hypertensive rats: effects of anti-androgen treatment. AB - The mechanisms resulting in the greater predisposition of male subjects towards hypertension were investigated in different strains of rats with genetic hypertension [spontaneously hypertensive rats of the stroke-prone strain (SHRSP) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR)] and their respective normotensive controls. Blood pressure was reduced in young (9 weeks of age) hypertensive rats by (1) surgical castration, (2) treatment with the testosterone receptor antagonist cyproterone acetate (CPA), which does not elevate testosterone, or (3) with the testosterone receptor antagonist flutamide, which leads to a feedback elevation of gonadotrophic hormones and plasma testosterone. These treatments had no effect on high blood pressure in old hypertensive rats aged 25 weeks. Both androgen receptor antagonists attenuated high blood pressure development when given for the first 10 days after birth. These data clearly relate the sexual dimorphism of hypertension to testosterone produced during male brain maturation in the early phase of hypertension development. Testosterone appears not to contribute directly to the maintenance of high blood pressure in established hypertension. PMID- 2529311 TI - Low molecular weight B cell growth factor-responsive cloned human B cell lines. I. Phenotypic differences and lack of requirement for CD23 (Fc epsilon RII). AB - The EBV-transformed B cell line JR-2 proliferates in response to partially purified preparations of low m.w. B cell growth factor (LMW-BCGF). Two clones of JR-2 were generated that retained this LMW-BCGF responsiveness, exhibiting similar dose/response characteristics but differing phenotypically. The B10 clone grows as single, discrete, small round cells, whereas D3 grows in aggregates. The clones also differ in the expression of cell surface Ag, D3 being weakly DR+ and strongly CD23+, whereas B10 lacks these Ag. The CD23 on D3 cells binds IgE. Both clones are T9+, 4F2+, B1-, B2- and CALLA-. D3 expresses surface IgG and differentiates in the presence of LMW-BCGF, to secrete IgG. B10 lacks surface and cytoplasmic Ig and fails to differentiate in response to LMW-BCGF. CD23 cannot be induced on B10 by incubation with either LMW-BCGF or IL-4. B10 does not shed CD23 and shed CD23 is not a growth factor for either cloned line. Expression of CD23 on D3 cells is not affected by preincubation with LMW-BCGF. Neither B10 or D3 cells respond to rIL-1, rIL-2, rIL-4, rIL-6, rTNF-alpha/beta, rIFN-gamma, or to high m.w. BCGF (Namalwa), alone or in combination. Both clones absorb BCGF activity and crossover absorptions indicate that the clones remove growth factors required by each other. D3 and B10 both appear therefore to respond selectively to LMW-BCGF. These data suggest that the loss of CD23 from a cloned derivative of the cell line JR-2, although accompanied by considerable phenotypic change, is not associated with the disappearance of LMW-BCGF responsiveness, indicating that CD23 is not the essential receptor for LMW-BCGF. PMID- 2529312 TI - Identification of a unique IgG Fc binding site in human intestinal epithelium. AB - In experiments to determine whether serum antibodies in patients with Crohn's disease could be used as probes for detecting potentially etiologic Ag in the patients' tissues, we found that peroxidase (HRP)-labeled IgG from healthy persons, as well as from the patients, bound to normal colonic and small intestinal epithelium, mostly or entirely to goblet cells. The binding was due to a reaction involving the Fc region of IgG because HRP-labeled Fc fragments of IgG bound, but HRP-Fab, HRP-IgA, and HRP-bovine albumin did not, and because binding of HRP-IgG was inhibited competitively by unlabeled IgG or Fc fragments but not by IgG Fab fragments or IgA. These immunohistochemical results were confirmed by ELISA with microtiter wells coated with a sonicated homogenate from human colonocytes. The epithelial IgG Fc binding site was characterized by SDS-PAGE as consisting of a high Mr (greater than 200,000 Da) and a 78,000-Da component. It bound all four subclasses of human IgG and bound aggregated as well as monomeric IgG. It is distinct from known human Fc-gamma R by lack of recognition by mAb to those receptors and differences in affinity for various subclasses of human and murine IgG. This unique IgG Fc binding site might be involved in immunologic defense of the gut, perhaps by mediating reactions between foreign Ag and the contents of goblet cells. PMID- 2529313 TI - A specific Fc gamma receptor on cultured rat mesangial cells. AB - Mesangial cells represent specialized pericytes in the renal glomerulus that contribute to the regulation of a variety of glomerular functions. Recently we and others have shown that cultured mesangial cells bind and take up immune complexes in an Fc-dependent manner leading in turn to generation of PGE2, reactive oxygen, and platelet-activating factor. The present studies were designed to further characterize potential Fc-gamma R on mesangial cells. Binding assays with either monomeric or heat aggregated (HA) [125I] labeled rat subclass specific IgG were performed at 4 degrees C for 2 h on subcultured rat mesangial cells. Monomeric rat IgG2a, IgG2b, IgG1 and HA IgG2a bound only nonspecifically. Saturable Fc-dependent binding occurred for HA IgG2b and HA IgG1 though maximal binding and affinity were much higher for IgG2b. The presence of an Fc-gamma R was confirmed by surface protein iodination of mesangial cells (MC) and immunoprecipitation with either a polyclonal or mAb 2.4G2 prepared against murine Fc-gamma R. Both antibodies precipitated a 45-kDa iodinated protein band from cultured rat MC that comigrated with that from murine macrophage J774 cells on SDS-PAGE. This protein band also reacted with the polyclonal anti Fc-gamma R antibody on immunoblots. In contrast rat renal papillary epithelial cells were negative. The 45-kDa protein recognized by the rat anti-Fc-gamma R antibody 2.4G2 probably represents the binding site for HA IgG2b, as the 2.4G2 antibody also blocked binding of HA IgG2b. By immunofluorescence microscopy all MC stained positively with the polyclonal anti-Fc-gamma R antibody. A cDNA probe for the Fc gamma RII-alpha on murine macrophages hybridized to mRNA from cultured rat MC which was of the same size (though less abundant) as that from J774 macrophages. These results further characterize the Fc-gamma R on cultured rat MC, and raise the possibility that the mesangial Fc-gamma R may play a role in the handling of immune-complexes by the renal glomerulus. PMID- 2529315 TI - Triton X-100 eliminates plasma proteins interference in a radioimmunoassay for luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) and LHRH analogues. AB - A method is described for the radioimmunoassay of native LHRH and DTrp6-LHRH, an LHRH analogue which does not require extraction of plasma samples. Interference by binding proteins normally present in plasma is removed by addition of Triton X 100 to the binding buffer at a concentration of 1% for LHRH and 0.15% for the LHRH analogue. This approach permits a direct estimation of the peptide level in unextracted plasma with quantitative recoveries for concentrations ranging from 0.015 to 10 ng/ml. Although the antiserum titre is reduced, the affinity of the antibody does not change at the detergent concentrations used in this study. This procedure is recommended for peptide assays in which the non-specific effects of plasma prevent a direct assay. PMID- 2529314 TI - Whole-blood lymphocyte cultures. AB - A simple and reproducible method is described for the measurement of proliferative responses of peripheral blood lymphocytes in whole blood upon stimulation with horse anti-human lymphocyte serum (ALS), phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) or a monoclonal antibody (mAb) directed against CD3. Only small aliquots of blood are needed and separation procedures are not necessary. Since the method proved to be very reproducible and showed little variation, reference values of proliferation, expressed in cpm per 15 microliters blood and cpm per 10(3) CD3+ lymphocytes, were determined based upon the 5th and the 2.5th percentile of the distribution of the values in our reference population. In addition, the use of whole blood lymphocyte cultures in longitudinal studies of immunocompromised individuals is demonstrated. PMID- 2529316 TI - A staphylococcal protein A rosetting assay for the demonstration of high affinity IgE receptors on rIL-3-dependent human basophil-like cells grown in mixed cell cultures. AB - Mature basophils can be differentiated from other blood born cells by their morphology, metachromatically staining granules, histamine content, and the presence on their surfaces of high-affinity IgE receptors. The identification of basophil-like cells arising in mixed human bone marrow cultures, however, is made more difficult because of their immaturity and the morphologic alterations due to in vitro culture. Identification of IgE receptors on individual cells in cell preparations which could simultaneously be examined for their histochemical properties would facilitate the study of basophil growth and differentiation. Because this was difficult using existing techniques, we developed an IgE staphylococcal protein A rosetting assay which allows the identification of cells bearing high-affinity IgE receptors and permits the same cells to be examined by a variety of staining techniques. We then examined the appearance of basophil like cells bearing IgE receptors in cultures of human bone marrow and correlated this data with measurements of IgE receptor number and affinity. The percentage of total cells grown in the presence of human recombinant IL-3 (rIL-3) that rosetted with Staphylococcus aureus increased from 2 +/- 0.5% at 1 week of culture to 7 +/- 2% at 2 weeks, 14 +/- 5% at 3 weeks, and 18 +/- 5% at 4 weeks. Using 125I-labeled IgEPS, the number of IgE receptors per rosetting basophil-like cell was calculated to be 7.3 x 10(4) at 2 weeks, 6.8 x 10(4) at 3 weeks, and 3.9 x 10(4) receptors per rosette positive basophil-like cell at 4 weeks. Finally, the rate of dissociation of IgE from these cultured cells was found to be 4.0 +/- 1.3 x 10(-5) s-1, indicating that IgE bound to IgE receptors on cultured basophil like cells with high affinity. PMID- 2529317 TI - Metastatic renal cell carcinoma arising in a congenital solitary kidney. Treatment with interferon-containing combinations. A case report and a review of the literature. AB - Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) in a single kidney is a rare occurrence, more so when it concerns agenesis of the kidney. Chemotherapy of metastatic renal cell carcinoma has a poor effect. We report a case of a man, 49 years of age, with agenesis of one kidney, admitted with a metastatic RCC of his only kidney. Survival of 15 months duration was achieved by therapy combining Provera, Vinblastine and Alpha-C-Recombinant Interferon. PMID- 2529318 TI - Cultured human Langerhans cells resemble lymphoid dendritic cells in phenotype and function. AB - Freshly isolated murine epidermal Langerhans cells (LC) are weak stimulators of resting T cells. Upon culture their phenotype changes, their stimulatory activity increases significantly, and they come to resemble lymphoid dendritic cells. Resident murine LC, therefore, might represent a reservoir of immature dendritic cells. We have now used enzyme cytochemistry, a panel of some 80 monoclonal antibodies, and immunofluorescence microscopy or two-color flow cytometry, as well as transmission electron microscopy, to analyse the phenotype and morphology of human LC before and after 2-4 d of bulk epidermal cell culture. In addition, LC were enriched from bulk epidermal cell cultures, and their stimulatory capacity was tested in the allogeneic mixed leukocyte reaction and the oxidative mitogenesis assay. Cultured human LC resembled human lymphoid dendritic cells in morphology, phenotype, and function. Specifically, LC became non-adherent upon culture and developed sheet-like processes (so-called "veils"), decreased their surface ATP/ADP'ase activity, and lost nonspecific esterase activity. As in the mouse, surface expression of MHC class I and II antigens increased significantly, and FcII receptors were significantly reduced. Markers that are expressed by dendritic cells (like CD40) appeared on LC following culture. Cultured human LC were potent T-cell stimulators. Our findings support the view that resident human LC, like murine LC, represent immature precursors of lymphoid dendritic cells in skin-draining lymph nodes. PMID- 2529319 TI - UVB but not UVA exposure of human skin alters epidermal antigen presentation resulting in T-suppressor cell circuit activation. PMID- 2529321 TI - Effects of nicotinic acid, nicotinamide, and pyridylcarbinol in pharmacological dosages on lipid metabolism in humans. AB - The clinical use of nicotinic acid, nicotinamide, and pyridylcarbinol as drugs against hypercholesterolemia is critically reviewed. Though several questions remain open as to the mode of action of these compounds, it is concluded that they indeed belong to the most useful drugs for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia and for the prevention of coronary disease. PMID- 2529320 TI - Cleavage of recombinant murine interferon-gamma by plasmin and miniplasmin. AB - Plasmin reacted readily with recombinant murine interferon-gamma (rIFN-gamma) in vitro, reducing the relative molecular mass of each monomer by approximately 1,000. The amino terminus of the rIFN-gamma remained intact and no sites of internal peptide bond hydrolysis were detected, indicating that the plasmin target region is most likely near the carboxyl terminus. Cleavage of rIFN-gamma was observed with similar concentrations of trypsin or min-plasmin. By contrast, human neutrophil elastase failed to alter the structure of rIFN-gamma. The plasma proteinase inhibitor, alpha 2-antiplasmin, protected rIFN-gamma from plasmin digestion. Purified alpha 2-macroglobulin-plasmin complex cleaved rIFN-gamma; however, the activity was greatly reduced compared with the free proteinase. The antiviral activity of the rIFN-gamma was enhanced four- to fivefold by treatment with plasmin or trypsin. By contrast, naturally occurring murine IFN-gamma was inactivated by plasmin (80%), suggesting that the effect of plasmin on IFN activity can vary depending on the preparation studied. The importance of plasmin at the site of an immune reaction is well established. This investigation identifies plasmin and miniplasmin as physiologic proteinases capable of reacting with IFN-gamma in vivo. PMID- 2529322 TI - Patient advocacy: a simple nursing action? PMID- 2529323 TI - Parkinson's disease. AB - Parkinson's disease is a common movement disorder caused by a deficiency of dopamine in the brain. The disease is chronic and progressive. While there are many treatments for symptomatic relief, there is no cure. This article addresses the etiology, clinical manifestations, standard and experimental therapeutics and role of the nurse in the comprehensive care of the patient and family. PMID- 2529324 TI - Research and treatment in multiple sclerosis: implications for nursing practice. AB - Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complicated neurological disease with an unknown cause and cure. Ongoing research efforts have produced several theories which are helping scientists identify clues to the etiology of the disease, as well as assist in the development of experimental treatment modalities. Current information regarding the possible underlying causes of MS as well as several of the experimental treatments under investigation are presented in this article. The nurses' role in helping persons with MS and their families during the decision-making phase of experimental treatment is discussed. Selected nursing diagnoses, goals and interventions are described in order to provide guidelines for practitioners managing the care of persons receiving experimental treatments in MS. PMID- 2529325 TI - Using a multidisciplinary follow-up program to assist patient adjustment following temporal lobectomy. AB - A follow-up program for patients following temporal lobectomy for seizure control was established in 1983 at the UCLA Neuropsychiatric Hospital in response to patients' requests for information and assistance. The purpose of this program was to identify changes requiring adaptation and to offer assistance. Forty patients were contacted monthly by telephone for one year after surgery. They were interviewed by either a nurse or occupational therapist about medical and psychosocial issues. The information, support or referral needed were provided by the nurse, occupational therapist or social worker in consultation with appropriate member(s) of the multidisciplinary team. Problems encountered when beginning a less disabled lifestyle might not have been detected or resolved without active intervention through a multidisciplinary follow-up program. PMID- 2529327 TI - Selective posterior rhizotomy in the pediatric cerebral palsy population: implications for nursing practice. AB - Cerebral palsy, suffered as a result of an anoxic episode during the perinatal period, is the most common physical disability in childhood. Spastic cerebral palsy is characterized by increased muscle tone and decreased range of motion resulting in impaired motor function. Application of an old neurosurgical procedure, the selective posterior rhizotomy, is a new alternative for treatment of spasticity which interferes with a child's motor ability. A detailed evaluation process is necessary to identify suitable candidates. The procedure involves selective surgical severing of L2 to S2 rootlets following electrophysiological stimulation and identification of abnormal responses. An overview of the surgical procedure, as well as nursing implications for the pre- and postoperative and rehabilitative periods will be discussed. PMID- 2529326 TI - Nursing diagnosis: a strategy for teaching etiologies. AB - In teaching the nursing process, educators ask students to identify nursing diagnoses for patients in the clinical area. Nursing diagnoses provide structure and focus for the student's plan of care. However, beginning nursing students have little or no clinical knowledge upon which to base decisions in the area of etiology determination. A model is presented which limits etiologies to four categories. The four categories can also assist the nurse in practice to assess needs in order to comprehensively plan and implement care. Examples of nursing diagnoses pertaining to the neuroscience patient using the four categories of etiologies are described. PMID- 2529328 TI - Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage. AB - To be able to understand and manage the devastating condition of subarachnoid hemorrhage due to ruptured aneurysm, the neuroscience practitioner needs to be thoroughly cognizant of its causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. This article presents a descriptive review and current update of these factors. The high morbidity and mortality in survivors of initial subarachnoid hemorrhage is mainly due to development of complications of hydrocephalus, hypothalamic dysfunction, rebleeding and vasospasm. A thorough knowledge of their causes, symptoms, times of occurrence and treatment is vitally important. This article also discusses complications with emphasis upon studies being done and proposed new methods of therapy. PMID- 2529329 TI - Durable power of attorney for health care: planning for substitute decision making. AB - Too frequently a relative who is not emotionally close to the patient and who does not know the patient's desires related to health care is authorized to make decisions for the unconscious or incompetent patient, while a non-relative who is intimately involved with the patient and knows the patient's health care desires has no authority to make these decisions. Health care providers must too often stand by helplessly as disinterested or malevolent relatives make these decisions, while caring, competent non-relatives are shut out of the decision making process. Planning for substitute decision-making can reduce stress and uncertainty for the patient, for the family and for health care providers. PMID- 2529330 TI - [Changes in serum steroid concentrations at delivery and during neonatal period after DHA-S injection into mother before delivery]. AB - DHA-S loading has been widely used for the assessment of placental function and ripening of the cervix before delivery. However, changes in the steroidal milieu in both mother and fetus has not been clarified after DHA-S administration. Free (f) and conjugated (c) DHA, delta 5 androstenediol (Adiol), estradiol (E2), estriol (E3), f-testosterone (T) and delta 4 androstenedione (Adione) levels in maternal vein, cord blood and peripheral vein of new born infants after maternal DHA-S administration were measured by radioimmunoassay, and the levels were compared to those in the controls. DHA-S administration resulted in a marked and significant rise in all steroid levels except for E3 in maternal vein. Significant augmentation of T, Adione, c-Adiol, f-DHA, f.c-E2 in umbilical artery, and T, Adione, f.c-Adiol, f-DHA, f-E2 in umbilical vein was observed. Steroid levels during the neonatal period were also measured on the 1st, 3rd and 5th days in both male and female infants, and the levels were compared to those of the controls. Although three androgens in both male and female infants at delivery were significantly higher than the controls, no significant difference was observed on the 5th day of life. Adiol and Adione levels on the 1st day in females, and Adiol levels on the 3rd day in males were higher than those of the controls. E2 levels remained high till the 5th day of life. These results indicated that DHA-S administered to the mother was converted to androgen and estrogen promptly in the placenta and transferred to the fetus.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2529332 TI - [A case of angina pectoris without ischemic changes on the standard 12-lead electrocardiogram during attacks]. PMID- 2529331 TI - [Changes in 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin F2 alpha and dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate (DHA-S) levels in amniotic fluid and maternal peripheral venous blood in late pregnancy and during labor]. AB - To study the role of prostaglandin (PG) and steroids on the mechanism of parturition, levels of 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin F2 alpha (dhk.PGF2 alpha) and dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate (DHA-S) in amniotic fluid and plasma during late pregnancy, labor, and puerperium, were measured by radioimmunoassay and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Seven patients at term were selected for this study and labor was induced by amniotomy. Amniotic fluid and maternal peripheral blood were obtained simultaneously from each individual at A) the artificial rupture of the membranes before the onset of labor, B) the onset of labor, C) the second stage of labor, D) the delivery, and E) 2 hours postpartum. No increase in either amniotic fluid or plasma dhk-PGF2 alpha was noticed when compared before and at the onset labor. However, there was a steady increase during labor and the maximum was reached at delivery. The dhk-PGF2 alpha concentration in amniotic fluid correlated well with that in maternal plasma. A similar pattern was observed in the DHA-S levels both in amniotic fluid and plasma. No apparent change was observed before the onset of labor, but there was a tendency to increase during labor. A significant correlation between the levels of dhk.PGF2 alpha and DHA-S in amniotic fluid was noticed. From the results obtained above, it is suggested that PG and DHA-S may be involved not in the initiation of labor but in the promotion of parturition. The biological significance of DHA-S on PG levels remains to be clarified. PMID- 2529333 TI - A randomized trial of laparoscopy and transvaginal ultrasound-directed oocyte pickup for in vitro fertilization. AB - Ninety-four (94) couples undergoing IVF for the usual spectrum of clinical reasons and who were suitable for either laparoscopic or vaginal ovum pickup (OPU) were randomly assigned at the commencement of 166 treatment cycles to one of two OPU procedures. Both patient and clinician were informed of the allocation. If either wished to change this, then that cycle was eliminated from the trial. After a period of 15 months, 103 cycles were appropriate for analysis, of which 64 had been subject to ultrasound and 39 to laparoscopic OPU. Patients in the two groups did not differ significantly in terms of age or diagnosis, and the treatment cycles did not differ significantly in terms of stimulation used, commencing or maximum estradiol (E2) concentrations, E2 per follicle aspirated, or characteristics of the semen used for IVF. The rate of oocyte recovery (number of oocytes obtained per follicle aspirated), the average number of embryos available for transfer, and the pregnancy rate per oocyte recovery procedure did not differ significantly in the two groups. Ovum recovery for IVF using vaginal aspirations and ultrasound guidance is as efficacious as that which uses laparoscopy. PMID- 2529334 TI - Comparison between laparoscopically and ultrasonographically guided transvaginal follicular aspiration methods in an in vitro fertilization program in the same patients using the same stimulation protocol. AB - Oocyte recovery from 43 patients undergoing ultrasound-guided transvaginal oocyte retrieval was compared to a previous laparoscopic oocyte retrieval cycle from the same patient. Gonadotropin stimulation in both cycles was performed using the same protocol. There were no statistically significant differences in the mean day of oocyte retrieval or the mean daily estradiol level up to the day of oocyte retrieval between laparoscopic and transvaginal cycles. The total number of follicles aspirated per cycle, preovulatory oocytes aspirated per cycle, and number of concepti of preovulatory origin transferred per cycle were not statistically different. The number of immature oocytes aspirated per cycle was statistically decreased in transvaginal retrieval cycles, which resulted in an increased total number of concepti transferred per transfer in laparoscopic retrieval cycles. Twelve pregnancies resulted from the transvaginal retrieval cycles (27.9%), seven of which are ongoing or delivered. Ultrasound-guided transvaginal follicular aspiration yields results comparable to laparoscopic retrieval in the same patients and should be the method of choice for oocyte pickup because of its many advantages. PMID- 2529335 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide in human cerebrospinal fluid. AB - We measured immunoreactive atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) levels in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) collected from patients with various neurologic disorders requiring diagnostic lumbar puncture. ANP was present in all of the CSF samples from 45 patients (1.7 +/- 0.6 pmol/L, mean +/- SD). CSF ANP levels were not related to the underlying central nervous diseases of the patients, to the presence or the absence of consciousness disturbance, or to CSF osmolalities in individual patients. In 35 patients, the mean ANP concentration in CSF corresponded to 27% of that in plasma, and there was no significant correlation between ANP concentrations in each paired sample. When ANP in pooled CSF was extracted by anti-ANP-agarose and analyzed by reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), multiple peaks of ANP were found. One of the major ANP peaks was identified as ANP-(103-126) on the basis of its retention time on HPLC and the specificity of the antiserum used in the radioimmunoassay; however, none of other peaks coeluted with ANP-(99-126), ANP-(101-126), ANP-(102-126), ANP (103-125), or ANP-(105-126). We conclude from these results that ANP is present in human CSF that is differently processed from ANP in the cardiac atrium. PMID- 2529337 TI - Electrocardiographic diagnosis of left atrial enlargement. Role of the P terminal force in lead V1. AB - The ability of the electrocardiographic criterion, P terminal force in lead V1 (PTF-V1), to diagnosis left atrial enlargement (LAE) is evaluated in a group of 317 men. A left atrial index greater than 2.2 cm/m2, determined by echocardiography, is used as the standard for LAE. The value for this criterion of 0.04 mm-sec performs best, although there is no significant difference in percent correct diagnosis for values of PTF-V1 ranging from 0.03 to 0.09 mm-sec. PMID- 2529336 TI - Characterization of the total lipid and fatty acid composition of rat olfactory mucosa. AB - Phospholipid accounted for 81% (by weight) of the total lipid of rat olfactory mucosa. Phosphatidylcholine (46% of total phospholipids) and phosphatidylethanolamine (26%) were the predominant phospholipids. Phosphatidylinositol (8%), sphingomyelin (6%), and phosphatidylserine (7%) were the next most abundant phospholipids, with cardiolipin (4%) and phosphatidic acid (1%) present in lesser amounts. Only trace amounts of the polyphosphoinositides, phosphatidylinositol monophosphate, and phosphatidylinositol bisphosphate were detected. Sterol was the major neutral lipid present (83% of the total neutral lipid mass) with lesser amounts of triacylglycerols (7%), steryl esters (6%), free fatty acids (4%), and diacylglycerols (1%). Monoacylglycerols were detected only in trace amounts. The sterol to phospholipid ratio was 0.39:1. Most of the phospholipids of the olfactory mucosa showed a high polyunsaturated fatty acid content, with the arachidonic acid (20:4) and docosahexaenoic acid (22:6) residues predominating. The fatty acids in sphingomyelin, however, were almost totally saturated and included the 24:0 and 24:1 residues, which were not detected in other phospholipids. Polyunsaturated fatty acids accounted for less than 25% of the total fatty acid of any individual neutral lipid and comprised largely linoleic and arachidonic acids. The results are discussed in relation to the putative role of lipids in olfactory signal transduction. PMID- 2529338 TI - Echocardiographic study of U wave inversion in the electrocardiograms of hypertensive patients. AB - The prevalence of U wave inversion was evaluated in 58 adult patients with hypertension, and a possible mechanism for it was examined using M-mode echocardiographic indices. U wave inversion was the most common electrocardiographic abnormality, occurring in 34% of patients; voltage criteria for left ventricular hypertrophy were present in only 14% of patients, and ventricular strain pattern was not detected in any patient. Nonetheless, on echocardiography left ventricular posterior wall thickness was increased in 58% of patients. However, neither U wave inversion nor conventional voltage criteria for left ventricular hypertrophy was strongly predictive for this finding. The authors conclude that U wave inversion is a frequent finding in patients with hypertension, often occurring alone. Although it does not appear to be closely linked to the presence of left ventricular hypertrophy, it may relate to other, perhaps subtle, abnormalities of diastolic ventricular relaxation. PMID- 2529339 TI - Determinants of atrial natriuretic factor levels in coronary heart disease: significance of central pressures, heart chamber volumes and left ventricular mass. AB - Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) was determined in pulmonary and systemic arterial plasma during diagnostic left and right heart catheterization in twenty-three patients. In twenty of these patients ANF was subsequently measured in systemic arterial plasma during nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) imaging of the heart with computation of left heart chamber volumes and left ventricular mass. Left ventricular end-diastolic pressure was the strongest independent predictor of pulmonary arterial plasma ANF, whereas cardiac index best predicted aortic plasma ANF. Both pulmonary and aortic plasma ANF correlated with systolic and diastolic pulmonary arterial pressure, left ventricular end-diastolic pressure and cardiac index. Left atrial volume index and left ventricular mass index did not correlate with systemic arterial plasma ANF whereas a positive linear correlation between left ventricular end-diastolic volume index and ANF could be demonstrated (r = 0.61, P less than 0.01). Left ventricular end-diastolic volume index was the most important independent predictor of systemic arterial plasma ANF. Systemic arterial plasma ANF might be a simple marker of left ventricular dilatation in patients with heart disease. PMID- 2529340 TI - Identification of the molecular target for the suppression of contact hypersensitivity by ultraviolet radiation. AB - This study was conducted to explore the involvement of DNA damage in the suppression of contact hypersensitivity (CHS) by UV irradiation. The opossum, Monodelphis domestica, was used because cells of these marsupials have an enzyme that is activated by visible light (photoreactivating enzyme) and repairs ultraviolet radiation (UVR)-induced pyrimidine dimers in DNA. A single dose of 1,500 J/m2 of UVB (280-320 nm) radiation, representing 2 minimal erythema doses, was administered to the dorsal skin of opossums. This treatment prevented the opossums from developing a CHS response to dinitrofluorobenze (DNFB) applied either at the site of irradiation or an unirradiated site. In addition, this dose of UVR decreased the number of ATPase+ epidermal Langerhans cells in the dorsal epidermis to approximately 3% of that in unirradiated skin at the time of DNFB application. Treatment of the animals with wavelengths that activate the repair enzyme (320-500 nm, photoreactivating light, PRL) for 120 min immediately after UV irradiation inhibited the UVR-induced suppression of CHS almost completely. Exposure to PRL before UVR did not prevent UVR-induced suppression of CHS. PRL treatment after UV irradiation also prevented the decrease in the number of ATPase+ Langerhans cells. Measurements of lesions in DNA indicated that PRL treatment removed around 85% of the UVR-induced pyrimidine dimers. These data provide direct evidence that DNA, and most likely, the pyrimidine dimer, is the primary molecular target for the UVB-induced suppression of contact hypersensitivity to haptens applied to irradiated or unexposed skin. PMID- 2529341 TI - Selective decreases in T cell receptor V beta expression. Decreased expression of specific V beta families is associated with expression of multiple MHC and non MHC gene products. AB - Previous reports of TCR V beta usage, studying either expression of a single V beta in a wide panel of strains (6, 7, 10, 12, 13), or expression of multiple V beta s in a very limited strain distribution (14, 15), have identified instances of clonal deletion of potentially autoreactive T cells specific for either self E alpha E beta or minor lymphocyte stimulatory (Mls) antigens. The present study has investigated the range of self antigens that can influence V beta usage by evaluating expression of 16 V beta families in 30 strains of mice. It was found that significant decreases in expression occur in at least 8 of the 16 V beta families and that dominant influences on the T cell V beta repertoire are exerted by expression of Mlsa, Mlsc, and MHC gene products. Decreased expressions of V beta 5, -11, -12, and -16 were influenced by MHC gene products. The patterns of decreased expression seen in intra-MHC recombinant strains and strains of different non-MHC background were distinct for V beta 11, -12, and -16, suggesting that different ligands are involved in the deletion of T cells expressing each of these V beta genes. Mice expressing Mlsa show decreased expression of V beta 9 as well as V beta 6. Mlsc mice lacked V beta 3 expression in those strains where the expressed MHC type was compatible with a strongly stimulatory Mlsc phenotype. V beta 7 was strongly influenced by both MHC and non MHC products that are not yet identified. These results demonstrate that strain specific decreases of mRNA expression occur in a major portion of the TCR repertoire. Self antigens including Mlsa, Mlsc, and E alpha E beta, as well as additional MHC and non-MHC products, appear to induce these decreases in expression in the process of eliminating self-reactive T cells from the mature T cell pool. PMID- 2529342 TI - Structure and expression of human IgG FcRII(CD32). Functional heterogeneity is encoded by the alternatively spliced products of multiple genes. AB - The structural heterogeneity of the human low affinity receptor for IgG, FcRII(CD32), has been elucidated through the isolation, characterization, and expression of cDNA clones derived from myeloid and lymphoid RNA. These clones predict amino acid sequences consistent with integral membrane glycoproteins with single membrane spanning domains. The extracellular domains display sequence homology to other Fc gamma Rs and members of the Ig supergene family. A minimum of three genes (Fc gamma RIIa, IIa', and Fc gamma RIIb) encode these transcripts, which demonstrate highly related extracellular and membrane spanning domains. IIa/IIa' differ substantially in the intracytoplasmic domain from IIb. Alternative splicing of the IIb gene generates further heterogeneity in both NH2- and COOH-terminal domains of the predicted proteins. Comparison to the murine homologues of these molecules reveals a high degree of conservation between the products of one of these genes, Fc gamma RIIb, and the murine beta gene in primary sequence, splicing pattern, and tissue distribution. In contrast, the sequence of IIa' indicates its relationship to the beta-like genes, with mutation giving rise to a novel cytoplasmic domain, while IIa is a chimera of both alpha- and beta-like genes. Expression of these cDNA molecules by transfection results in the appearance of IgG binding molecules that bear the epitopes defined by the FcRII(CD32) mAbs previously described. PMID- 2529344 TI - Panniculitis of pancreatitis presenting as an abdominal wall mass. AB - A case is presented of subcutaneous fat necrosis manifested as an abdominal wall mass, a finding reported only rarely with acute pancreatitis. It should be considered a possibility in the differential diagnosis of a palpable abdominal mass in acute pancreatitis. PMID- 2529343 TI - Soluble cytokine receptors are present in normal human urine. AB - Affinity chromatography of crude human urinary proteins on either human rIL-6, human rIFN-gamma, or anti-IFN-gamma-R mAb yielded the two respective soluble receptors in significant quantities. A single sequence of 30 amino acid residues was obtained by NH2-terminal microsequencing of the protein peak purified in tandem by affinity chromatography on an IL-6 column and reversed-phase HPLC. This sequence was identical to the predicted NH2-terminal sequence of IL-6-R as previously reported. Analysis of the eluted proteins from both IFN-gamma and anti IFN-gamma-R columns by inhibition of solid phase RIA, ELISA, SDS-PAGE, and Western blotting proved the existence of soluble IFN-gamma-R in normal urine. Our finding, together with the already known presence of urinary TNF binding proteins and a soluble IL-2-R both in plasma and in urine, indicates that release of soluble cytokine receptors into body fluids is a general phenomenon that occurs under normal physiological conditions. PMID- 2529345 TI - Deltoid versus buttock as preferred site of injection for hepatitis B vaccine. AB - Several factors concerning effectiveness of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination have been discovered: site of injection, indications for revaccination, testing for immunity, persistence of HBV antibody following vaccination, and age of recipient. The site may be important in provoking an appropriate antibody response. The deltoid is recommended rather than the gluteal. It is suggested that recipients of gluteal vaccinations receive revaccination in the deltoid. Revaccination is also recommended five years after the original series due to possible loss of antibody response. This is especially important to those with continued exposure to HBV such as medical personnel. However, caution is suggested as undetectable antibody appears to be an unreliable predictor of susceptibility to infection. It is also recommended that testing for immunity after vaccination be conducted only in those in whom a suboptimal response is expected, i.e., gluteal injection recipients and immunocompromised patients. Age of the recipient appears to be a major confounder influencing the duration of vaccine-induced immunity. The physician's consideration of these factors when administering the HBV vaccine should increase the overall effectiveness of immunization. PMID- 2529346 TI - The evaluation of five electrophoretic phenotyping systems for routine screening of bloodstains. AB - The performance of the polymorphic marker systems group-specific component (GC), phosphoglucomutase-1 (PGM), alpha-2-HS-glycoprotein (A2HS), haptoglobin (Hp), and erythrocyte acid phosphatase (EAP) was evaluated on control bloodstains. The major factors considered were: sensitivity of the test system; stability of the marker; laboratory economics of each test; and distinguishing power (Dp) of the system. GC was considered to be the most suitable marker for routine screening because of its high stability and Dp, and the sensitivity of the immunoblotting detection method. PGM and A2HS were the next most valuable markers followed by Hp. EAP could only be considered useful when large amounts of relatively fresh bloodstain were available. PMID- 2529347 TI - Serum endorphin levels in uremic patients under maintenance hemodialysis. AB - We checked serum beta-endorphin levels in 17 chronic uremic patients under regular hemodialysis and compared them with the levels in 17 age-matched control subjects. Higher levels of serum beta-endorphin were found in uremic patients (22.54 +/- 6.20 pg/0.1 ml vs 9.42 +/- 5.19 pg/0.1 ml, p less than 0.001). There were no sex differences in both uremic patients (M: F = 21.04 +/- 7.53 pg/0.1 ml vs 23.59 +/- 5.25 pg/0.1 ml, p greater than 0.05) and normal control subjects (9.16 +/- 5.15 pg/0.1 ml vs 9.76 +/- 5.55 pg/0.1 ml, p greater than 0.05). No significant difference in the serum levels was noted between the patients with a hemodialysis history longer than two years (19.96 +/- 5.79 pg/0.1 ml vs 25.45 +/- 5.60 pg/0.1 ml, p greater than 0.05) and those with less than a two year's history (19.96 +/- 5.79 pg/0.1 ml vs 25.45 +/- 5.60 pg/0.1 ml, p greater than 0.05). Moreover, serum beta-endorphin levels were not altered after dialysis (22.54 +/- 6.20 pg/0.1 ml to 20.66 +/- 4.57 pg/0.1 ml, p greater than 0.05) by either acetate or bicarbonate dialysate (acetate vs bicarbonate = 20.83 +/- 5.03 pg/0.1 ml vs 20.13 +/- 3.14 pg/0.1 ml, p greater than 0.05). The role of beta endorphin in the pathogenesis of uremic syndrome still requires further study. PMID- 2529348 TI - Management of the fetus with an abdominal wall defect: experience of 31 cases. AB - The diagnosis of ventral abdominal wall defect can now be made prior to birth. With this diagnosis, the family can make decisions and a planned optimal management can lead to a successful outcome. There were 31 cases of ventral wall defect identified at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital (CGMH) from January 1979 through March 1988. Twenty of them were classified as gastroschisis; among them, 17 (85%) were born in outside clinics and none of them had associated anomalies. In contrast, among 11 cases of omphalocele, there was a lower frequency of transferred cases (27% vs 85%), and 4 cases had additional defects, including two multiple anomalies and two bladder exstrophies. There were no significant differences between gastroschisis and omphalocele in the mortality rate (30% vs 36%), in the incidence of intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) (30% vs 27%) and in the Cesarean section rate (15% vs 18%). All 4 cases of prematurity (less than 36 weeks of gestational age) expired after delivery and 2 of these had body weights of less than 1500 g. Three out of 5 cases delivered by Cesarean section expired; the mortality (60%) was higher than that of vaginal delivery (28%). All 3 cases were gastroschisis, 2 of them were transferred from outside clinics and all expired due to sepsis. The diagnosis of ventral wall defect should be made prenatally, with obstetric ultrasonography, maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein screening and fetal karyotyping. Therefore, fetal transport in utero to a referral center and optimal perinatal care for those fetuses with potentially correctable lesions can be well planned. PMID- 2529349 TI - Reduced stimulating effect on one-way mixed lymphocyte culture by parturient's and neonatal cord blood cells. AB - One-way mixed lymphocyte culture (MLC), using the peripheral blood T, B cells and monocytes of 16 unmarried women who were never pregnant (i.e. nulligravidas) and 18 parturients, and the umbilical venous blood T, B cells and monocytes of 18 newborns as stimulating cells, were used to react with the peripheral mononuclear cells of a type "O" blood of a 29-year-old healthy man. We demonstrated that the stimulating effects were much lower in the parturients and the newborns than in the unmarried nulligravidas. The stimulating indices were significantly different, especially in the B cells. Mean stimulation index was 4.843 in unmarried nulligravidas, 1.249 in parturients and 1.284 in newborns. Our results seem to suggest that pregnancy produces some alternations on both the maternal and the fetal cells, making the maternal and the fetal immune systems fail to recognize each other. PMID- 2529351 TI - (+)-PN200-110 and ouabain binding sites in purified bovine adrenomedullary plasma membranes and chromaffin cells. AB - Bovine adrenal medulla plasma membranes were purified by a differential centrifugation procedure using sucrose and Urografin discontinuous density gradients; the membranes were enriched 10-12-fold in acetylcholinesterase activity and [3H]ouabain binding sites. Specific (+)-[3H]PN200-110 binding to these membranes amounted to 90% of total binding and was saturable and of high affinity (KD = 41 pM; Bmax = 119 fmol/mg of protein) with a Hill coefficient close to 1, a result suggesting the presence of a single, homogeneous population of dihydropyridine receptors. The association and dissociation rate constants were, respectively, 7.5 X 108 M-1 min-1 and 0.023 min-1. Unlabeled (+)-PN200-110 displaced (+)-[3H]PN200-110 binding with a potency 100-fold higher than (-)-PN200 110 (IC50,0.5 and 45nM, respectively). Although the two enantiomers of BAY K 8644 completely displaced (+)-[3H]PN200-110 binding, they exhibited no stereoselectivity (IC50, 69 and 83 nM,respectively). Whereas ( +/- )-nitrendipine very potently displaced (+)-[3H]PN200-110 binding (IC50 = 1.3 nM) verapamil and cinnarizine displaced the binding by only 30 and 40% at 1 microM, and diltiazem increased it by 20% at 10 microM. [3H]Ouabain bound to plasma membranes with a KD of 34 nM and a Bmax of 9.75 pmol/mg of protein, a figure 80-fold higher than the Bmax for (+)-PN200-110. [3H]Ouabain also bound to intact chromaffin cells with a Bmax of 244 fmol/10(6) cells.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2529350 TI - Purification and subunit composition of a cholinergic synaptic vesicle glycoprotein, phosphointermediate-forming ATPase. AB - A glycoprotein ATPase in cholinergic synaptic vesicles of Torpedo electric organ was solubilized with octa-ethylene glycol dodecyl ether detergent. Study of potential stabilizing factors identified crude brain phosphatidylserine, glycerol, dithiothreitol, and protease inhibitors as of value in maintaining activity. The ATPase was purified from the solubilized, stabilized material by glycerol density gradient band sedimentation velocity ultracentrifugation, and hydroxylapatite, wheat germ lectin affinity, and size exclusion chromatographies. The pure ATPase had a specific activity of about 37 mumol ATP hydrolyzed/min/mg protein. After sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, the purified material typically exhibited three polypeptides of molecular masses 110, 104, and 98 kilodaltons (kDa) and a fourth diffuse polypeptide of 60 kDa. This composition suggests that the ATPase is a member of the P-type, or phosphointermediate-forming, family, but it was shown to be distinct from the ouabain-sensitive Na+,K+- and CA2+-stimulated Mg2+-ATPases. The purified vesicle enzyme was rapidly phosphorylated by [gamma-32P]ATP on about 14% of the subunits with molecular weights of 98,000-110,000. About 16% of the ATPase was phosphorylated in whole-vesicle ghosts in a manner consistent with formation of a phosphointermediate, thus confirming the P-type nature of this enzyme. PMID- 2529352 TI - Chromatographic analyses of the serotonin 5-HT1A receptor solubilized from the rat hippocampus. AB - Serotonin 5-HT1A receptors in rat hippocampal membranes were solubilized by 10 mM 3-[3-(cholamidopropyl)dimethylammonio]-1-propane sulfonate (CHAPS) and chromatographed on various gels in an attempt to design a relevant protocol for their (partial) purification. In particular, an affinity gel made of the 8 hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)tetralin (8-OH-DPAT) derivative 8-methoxy-2-[(N propyl, N-butylamino)amino]tetralin (8-MeO-N-PBAT) coupled to Affigel 202 was specially developed for this purpose. First, studies of the effects of various compounds (detergents, lipids, reducing agents, sugars, etc.) on the specific binding of [3H]8-OH-DPAT and on the rate of heat-induced inactivation of solubilized 5-HT1A sites led to a buffer composed of 50 mM Tris-HCl, 50 microM dithiothreitol, 1 mM CHAPS, 10% glycerol, 0.1 mM MnCl2, and 50 micrograms/ml of cholesteryl hemisuccinate, pH 7.4, ensuring a high degree of stability of solubilized 5-HT1A sites, compatible with chromatographic analyses for 2-4 days at 4 degrees C. Adsorption and subsequent elution of [3H]8-OH-DPAT specific binding sites were found with several chromatographic gels, including wheat germ agglutinin-agarose, phenyl-Sepharose, hydroxylapatite-Ultrogel, diethylaminoethyl (DEAE)-Sepharose, and DEAE-Sephacel. Similarly, 8-MeO-N-PBAT-Affigel 202 allowed the adsorption and subsequent elution (by 1 mM 5-HT) of active 5-HT1A binding sites solubilized from rat hippocampal membranes. The two-step chromatography using 8-MeO-N-PBAT-Affigel 202 followed by wheat germ agglutinin-agarose gave a fraction enriched (by at least 400-fold) in 5-HT1A sites. Sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of this partially purified fraction revealed a major protein band with Mr close to 60,000. PMID- 2529353 TI - Motoneuron firing and isomyosin type of muscle fibres in prior polio. AB - In patients with prior polio there was an excessive use of remaining motor units and an absence of type II muscle fibres in the tibialis anterior (TA). In the present study, eight subjects with prior polio with more than 90% type I fibres in the TA were examined. The aim was to elucidate whether the lack of type II muscle fibres was due to a selective loss of motoneurons with high threshold and high axonal conduction velocity or due to a muscle fibre transition from type II to type I. There was no decrease of the proportion of motoneurons with high threshold and high axonal conduction velocity. Monoclonal antibodies against fast and slow myosin heavy chains (MHC) were used as histochemical markers and many muscle fibres of type I according to ATPase stainability showed a binding of both anti-fast and anti-slow MHC. It is suggested that the type I muscle fibre dominance in prior polio subjects with excessive use of TA during walking is due to a muscle fibre transition from type II to type I and not to a loss of one class of motor units. PMID- 2529354 TI - Neopterin: biopterin ratios in Down's syndrome. PMID- 2529355 TI - Bone SPECT evaluation of patients with persistent back pain following lumbar spinal fusion. PMID- 2529356 TI - Preventive program cuts costs of employee back injuries. PMID- 2529357 TI - Incidence of chloracne among chemical workers potentially exposed to chlorinated dioxins. AB - Company medical charts were reviewed for 2192 chemical workers who were potentially exposed to chlorinated dioxins during 1940 to 1982 to determine whether they were ever diagnosed as having chloracne. Nearly 16% of the 2072 workers with medical records were found to have been so affected. The incidence of chloracne was noted to have been highest among the youngest workers, and among those who worked in the production of chlorinated phenols rather than with products derived from those materials. Chloracne incidence was found to increase with several measures of intensity and cumulative dose of tetra- and hexa- to octachlorinated dioxins, but these analyses were hampered somewhat by the limitations of both the exposure and medical outcome data. PMID- 2529359 TI - Myocardial infarction: current management strategies. AB - Coronary artery disease is a common malady in industrialized societies. The end stage of this progressive disorder frequently results in myocardial infarction (MI), now known to be due to acute thrombosis of a narrowed coronary artery. In the past, supportive care was all that could be offered to patients suffering MI. But the new therapeutic modalities of thrombolysis and transluminal coronary angioplasty now offer a means of limiting the damage caused by coronary stenosis and thrombosis in many cases. This article reviews conventional, recently introduced, and possible future treatment strategies to manage coronary obstruction. Current concepts of handling the patient suffering a suspected acute coronary thrombosis in the office setting are presented as well. PMID- 2529358 TI - Immunologic monitoring with Orthoclone OKT3 therapy. AB - Muromonab-CD3 monoclonal antibody (Orthoclone OKT3) was used 146 times in 123 transplant recipients to treat or prevent rejection. Reversal and prevention of rejection were evaluated 1 week and 1 year after OKT3 therapy. Eighty-one percent (73 of 90) of the rejection episodes in kidney transplant patients were reversed with 67% of these grafts functioning at 1 year. Eighteen of 20 (90%) rejection episodes in liver transplant recipients were reversed, as were 11 of 13 (85%) heart transplant rejection episodes. Only one of five pancreas transplant episodes were reversed. OKT3 was used prophylactically in 18 transplant recipients (13 kidney, four heart, one liver). Immunologic monitoring (lymphocyte subsets, serum OKT3 levels, and antimurine antibodies) was performed during and after OKT3 therapy. Antimurine antibody formation rate was 28% (26 of 94 patients monitored). OKT3 therapy resulted in a rapid depletion of CD3+ cells from the peripheral circulation (less than 20/mm3) and trough serum OKT3 levels of greater than 800 ng/ml by the third day of therapy in all transplant types. Twenty-three patients (14 kidney, five liver, three heart, and one pancreas) were retreated with OKT3; reversal of rejection occurred in 87% of patients (13 of 15) with no antimurine antibodies and in 83% of patients (five of six) with a low antibody titer but did not occur in the two patients with a high antibody titer. Retreatment of patients with no anti-OKT3 antibody resulted in a depletion of CD3+ cells from the peripheral blood, but it took longer than in patients treated with OKT3 for the first time. Similarly, serum OKT3 levels increased slower in retreated patients compared with first treatment. In retreatment patients with a low titer antimurine antibody, often it was necessary to increase the dose of OKT3 to achieve adequate serum OKT3 levels and to deplete CD3+ cells. Antimurine antibody developed de novo in four of the 15 antibody negative patients (27%) who were retreated. Overall, OKT3 was an effective agent in reversing and preventing rejection in solid organ transplantation with few severe side effects and a low mortality. Retreatment with OKT3 should not be considered unless the antibody status of the patient is known. Development of low titer antibodies does not preclude successful retreatment with OKT3. Alternate antirejection therapy, however, should be used in patients with high titer antimurine responses. PMID- 2529360 TI - Optical probes of intradiskal processes in rod photoreceptors. I: Light scattering study of ATP-dependent dark reactions. AB - ATP can cause dramatic structural changes in the outer segment of rod photoreceptors. These changes can be visualized by means of a concomitant light scattering signal AD, a decrease in scattered light intensity of over 20%. The large size of the signal suggests that major structural changes occur. The underlying molecular events may reflect an important, yet still unknown, part of the photoreceptor machinery. AD signals reflect ATPase-driven transmembrane events which occur in and at the disk membrane. Their only structural prerequisite is the structural integrity of the disk compartment. The angular dependence of AD, which can be mimicked by an osmotically-induced disk-swelling, suggests that the disk compartment swells during the production of the AD signal. AD signals proceed with first-order kinetics (half-life = 1 min at 20 degrees C and ATP concentrations of greater than 100 microM) and are accompanied by the hydrolysis of approximately 4 mol ATP (mol rhodopsin)-1. The AD signal is inhibited by a number of transport ATPase inhibitors (quercetin, NBD.Cl, vanadate, DCCD), but not by oligomycin, azide and ouabain. The sensitivity to DCCD, together with the fact that except magnesium no other cation has to be present, points to a proton translocation. This proton transport appears to be electrogenic, since AD signals require the presence of a permeant anion. In physiological saline this is chloride, and the chloride flux is facilitated by a DIDS-sensitive anion transport unit in the disk membrane. PMID- 2529361 TI - Poor IgM antibody response to hepatitis B core antigen in infants with hepatitis B virus infection. PMID- 2529362 TI - Importance of lymphokines in the control of multiplication and dispersion of Leishmania donovani within liver macrophages of resistant and susceptible mice. AB - Leishmania donovani is an obligate intracellular parasite of mammalian macrophages. The immunosuppressant cyclosporin A (CsA), which inhibits the production of interleukin (IL)-1, IL-2, and interferon-gamma, increased infections 3-fold without affecting expression of the Lsh gene. The objective of this study was to determine how activation of macrophages by lymphokines affects the multiplication and propagation of the parasite within liver macrophages. Susceptible C57BL/6J and resistant C57L/J mice were treated with 200 mg/kg CsA and then infected intravenously with 10(7) amastigotes. Two weeks later macrophages were collected from the liver by perfusion, plated on coverslips, and incubated for 4, 24, and 48 hr. The percentage of infected macrophages and the number of amastigotes/100 cells were determined after staining the cells with Giemsa's stain. The number of infected macrophages and amastigotes per macrophage was significantly greater in animals of both strains that had been treated with CsA. This study demonstrated clearly that lymphokines or other soluble mediators produced by T cells act, in part, to control infection by L. donovani by minimizing both multiplication within macrophages and their dispersion. PMID- 2529363 TI - Strongyloides stercoralis: is there a canonical migratory route through the host? AB - It is generally accepted that the skin-penetrating larvae of Strongyloides stercoralis travel from the skin to the intestinal habitat of the adult stage by an obligatory migratory route that includes the blood, lungs, trachea, and upper gastrointestinal tract in sequence (the pulmonary route). It is assumed, furthermore, that following autoinfective invasion of the bowel wall, S. stercoralis larvae follow this same route to return to the small intestine where they mature. We reexamined the parasite's migratory behavior using a canine isolate of S. stercoralis, specific-pathogen-free pups, radiolabeled larvae, and compressed tissue autoradiography. Compartmental analysis of the number of larvae found in the organ sets examined revealed no reason to reject the simple idea that the pulmonary route was just one of several possible pathways to the duodenum. This was true whether the larvae began their journey in the subcutaneous tissue of the inguinal area or in the distal part of the ileum. Direct sampling of the larvae traversing the trachea indicated that the number of larvae reaching the duodenum by way of the presumptive pulmonary route was insufficient to account for the estimated absolute number actually found there. PMID- 2529364 TI - Effects of cocaine and related drugs in nonhuman primates. I. [3H]cocaine binding sites in caudate-putamen. AB - Specific binding sites for [3H]cocaine were identified in caudate-putamen membranes prepared from nonhuman primate brains (Macaca fascicularis and Saimiri sciureus). Saturation of the sites was determined in competition studies using a fixed concentration of [3H]cocaine (2.7 nM) and increasing concentrations of unlabeled cocaine (1 pM-100 microM). Computer resolution of the shallow displacement curve (nH, 0.58) revealed that a two-component binding model [Kd1, 19.2 nM, maximum binding1 (Bmax1), 28.3 pmol/g of tissue; Kd2, 1120 nM, Bmax2, 431 pmol/g of tissue] was statistically preferred over a one-component model (K.50, 283 nM, Bmax, 471 pmol/g of tissue). Binding of [3H]cocaine was NaCl dependent, with specific binding reduced by 72% when NaCl (100 mM) was omitted from the incubation medium. [3H]Cocaine was displaced stereoselectively by the enantiomers of cocaine and by the diastereoisomers of cocaine and its phenyltropane analog. Cocaine congeners displaced specifically bound [3H]cocaine with IC50 values ranging from 17 nM to over 100 microM in the following rank order of potency: WIN 35,428 greater than WIN 35,065-2 greater than (-)-cocaine greater than WIN 35,981 greater than (-)-norcocaine greater than WIN 35,140 greater than (+)-cocaine, (+)-pseudococaine greater than 3 alpha-tropanyl-1H indole-carboxylic acid ester greater than 1 alpha H-3 alpha-5 alpha H-tropan-3-yl 3,5-dichlorobenzoate greater than benzoylecgonine, benzoylnorecgonine and (-) pseudococaine. Several monoamine uptake inhibitors structurally unrelated to cocaine also displaced [3H]cocaine with IC50 values ranging from 1.6 nM to 50 microM. The rank order of potency was: ( +/- )-trans-3-(3',4'-dichlorophenyl)-N methyl-1-indanamine greater than mazindol greater than nomifensine greater than methylphenidate 1-[2-[bis(4-fluorophenyl)methoxy]ethyl]- 4-(3 phenylpropyl)piperazine, N-[1-(2- benzo(b)thiophenyl)cyclohexyl]piperidine greater than (-)-cocaine greater than 1-amino-4-phenylbicyclo-[2,2,2]-octane greater than bupropion, nisoxetine greater than desipramine, talsupram greater than citalopram. Other drugs, including the dopamine releasing agent (+) amphetamine and the dopamine receptor agonists (-)-apomorphine, (+)-4-propyl-9 hydroxy-naphthoxazine, quinpirole and SKF 38393 were weak displacers of [3H]cocaine. Monoamine neurotransmitters also were relatively weak, but dopamine was considerably more potent than either norepinephrine or serotonin.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2529365 TI - Effects of cocaine and related drugs in nonhuman primates. III. Self administration by squirrel monkeys. AB - The self-administration of cocaine was compared with that of bupropion, 1-(2 [bis(4-fluorophenyl)methoxy]ethyl]-4-(3-phenylpropyl)piperazine, mazindol, methylphenidate and nomifensine, drugs that displace [3H]cocaine from its binding sites and have monoamine uptake inhibiting effects in common with those of cocaine. Squirrel monkeys responded under a second-order fixed-interval schedule of consequent i.v. drug injection, and dose-effect curves were established by determining stable rates of responding maintained by saline and a range of doses of each drug. Cocaine (0.01-0.56 mg/kg/injection), bupropion (0.1-3.0 mg/kg/injection), 1-(2-[bis(4-fluorophenyl)methoxy]ethyl)-4-(3- phenylpropyl)piperazine-(0.03-1.0 mg/kg/injection), methylphenidate (0.01-0.3 mg/kg/injection) and nomifensine (0.01-0.3 mg/kg) maintained comparable rates and patterns of responding in all subjects, whereas mazindol (0.03-0.3 mg/kg) maintained self-administration behavior in only half the monkeys studied. The present results in conjunction with those of previous studies in squirrel monkeys reveal a close correspondence between the relative potencies of cocaine and related drugs for maintaining i.v. self-administration and for increasing rates of schedule-controlled responding, suggesting that the reinforcing and psychomotor-stimulant effects of the drugs are mediated similarly. The potency relations observed in the present study also agree generally with those observed for displacement of specifically bound [3H]cocaine in monkey caudate-putamen suggesting that the reinforcing effects of cocaine involve its actions at specific recognition sites in brain. PMID- 2529366 TI - Specific inhibition of rat renal Na+/phosphate cotransport by picolinamide. AB - Nicotinamide is both a precursor for NAD synthesis and an inhibitor of intracellular NAD hydrolysing enzymes. Overnight treatment of rats with nicotinamide causes dose-dependent inhibition of the Na+/phosphate cotransporter in the renal brush border membrane. Picolinamide is an isomer of nicotinamide that cannot be used for NAD synthesis. Picolinamide was used in the present study to explore the possibility that inhibition of Na+/phosphate cotransport may be related to inhibition of NAD hydrolyzing enzymes. Overnight treatment of rats with picolinamide, administered as a single injection (4 mmol/kg), inhibited Na+/phosphate cotransport by isolated renal brush border membrane vesicles. Like nicotinamide, the inhibition by picolinamide occurred in thyroparathyroidectomized rats, was specific for Na+/phosphate cotransport and was accompanied by a decrease in the apparent Vmax. In contrast to nicotinamide, there was only a small increase (1.5-fold) in renal cortical NAD content after picolinamide treatment. Direct incubation of isolated proximal tubules with thymidine, a potent inhibitor of NAD hydrolysis by intracellular enzymes, produced no change in Na+/phosphate cotransport. Thus, specific inhibition of renal Na+/phosphate cotrasport by picolinamide in vivo is unlikely due to inhibition of NAD hydrolyzing enzymes. It is suggested, based on data from in vitro studies, that a cyclic AMP-dependent mechanism may be involved. PMID- 2529367 TI - Disposition and dynamics of atrial natriuretic factor in conscious rabbits. AB - The kinetics and dynamics of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF), rat ANF(99-126), were documented in conscious rabbits. The kinetics of immunoreactive ANF (IR-ANF) were first-order after a bolus of up to 300 ng/kg. Compared to the bolus, prolonged infusion of ANF produced a significant reduction in the systemic clearance of IR-ANF, from 132 to 59 and 70 ml/min/kg (P less than .0001) for the 81 +/- 8 ng/min/kg (x140 min) and 126 +/- 6 ng/min/kg (x480 min) infusion rates, respectively; however, the distribution of ANF was not affected. During the infusion of ANF, there was a marked decrease in mean arterial pressure and renal plasma flow, whereas the effects on renal excretion of water and sodium parameters were minimal. The change in hemodynamics was accompanied by a rebound increase in plasma renin activity. It is concluded that the kinetics of IR-ANF are zero-order after a prolonged infusion, secondary to a fall in the systemic clearance of ANF and that in this animal model, and at the doses used, this peptide only elicited hemodynamic effects, possibly related to the activation of counter-regulatory mechanisms. PMID- 2529368 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide blocks the renal vasoconstrictor response to hypertonic saline in the dog. AB - The role of atrial natriuretic peptide to modulate the renal tubuloglomerular feedback response was examined in the dehydrated anesthetized dog using an infusion of hypertonic sodium chloride to increase renal plasma sodium concentration by 30 mEq/l as the stimulus to activate the tubuloglomerular feedback. Two sequential infusions of hypertonic sodium chloride into the renal artery for 10 min were separated by 90 min, and various interventions were introduced before the second hypertonic saline infusion. In the first group of dogs, the first infusion of hypertonic saline resulted in a significant decrease in renal blood flow from 234 +/- 36 to 199 +/- 31 ml/min, but when atriopeptin III (APIII) was infused into the renal artery at 3 x 10(-10) mol/min, the repeat infusion of hypertonic saline resulted in a significant increase in blood flow from 221 +/- 28 to 269 +/- 35 ml/min that was maintained throughout the 10 min of hypertonic saline. In the second group of dogs only the vehicle for APIII was infused during the second hypertonic saline infusion. In these dogs, renal blood flow decreased significantly the first time from 201 +/- 17 to 170 +/- 16 ml/min, and the second time from 232 +/- 22 to 177 +/- 20 ml/min. In a third group of dogs, the vasodilator sodium nitroprusside, a stimulator of smooth muscle soluble guanylate cyclase, was infused into the renal artery during the second hypertonic saline infusion.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2529369 TI - Variation in the normalized tetanic force of single frog muscle fibres. AB - 1. The forces produced in maximal fixed-end tetani of single fibres isolated from the anterior tibialis muscle of the frog Rana temporaria have been measured at sarcomere lengths of 2.2 microns and temperatures near 0 and 10 degrees C. 2. When normalized by either cross-sectional area or dry weight per unit length at a sarcomere length of 2.2 microns, the forces vary over a twofold range. 3. The normalized force is not significantly correlated with the velocity of unloaded shortening or the twitch characteristics of the fibres. Lack of variability of these two quantities (together with histochemical evidence) suggest that only one fibre type is present in the experimental sample. 4. The steady rate of energy liberation (stable, heart rate) of the fibres during isometric tetani is positively correlated with the normalized force, indicating that extra ATP splitting is required to produce higher forces. 5. Fibres with a higher ratio of dry weight per unit length to cross-sectional area ('dry density') show a higher force when normalized by area, but not when normalized by dry weight per unit length. 6. Fibres with a more circular cross-sectional profile produce more force when normalized by either cross-sectional area or dry weight per unit length. The significance of this correlation is unclear. 7. The contribution of various sources to the total overall variation in normalized force is assessed. It is suggested that a diffusible substance or substances may be involved in modulating fibre force. PMID- 2529370 TI - A comparison of head-down tilt with low-dose infusion of atrial natriuretic peptide in man. AB - 1. Procedures that increase atrial pressure, such as head-down tilt, result in an increase in plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and a natriuresis, but a direct cause-and-effect relationship between these two responses has not been established. This study was undertaken to compare the effects of head-down tilt with exogenous ANP on renal function. 2. Eight normal sodium-replete volunteers underwent a 3 h placebo infusion, a 3 h ANP infusion at 1.2 pmol kg-1 min-1 and a 3 h period of head-down tilt. Each procedure was performed on a separate day, in random order. 3. ANP and head-down tilt produced similar increases in sodium excretion (65 +/- 24 and 68 +/- 16%, respectively). ANP did not increase urine flow significantly more than placebo. Head-down tilt increased urine flow significantly more than placebo and ANP. 4. Plasma ANP rose from 8.1 +/- 1.0 to 11.4 +/- 2.5 pg ml-1 during head-down tilt and from 6.5 +/- 1.4 to 32.3 +/- 10.7 pg ml-1 with ANP infusion. 5. ANP infusion had no significant effects on systemic haemodynamics whilst head-down tilt increased cardiac output and reduced heart rate and an index of systemic vascular resistance. 6. ANP infusion, whilst achieving a natriuretic response similar to that of tilt, was associated with a 3 fold higher mean plasma ANP level. Although plasma ANP rose during both ANP infusion and tilt, there was a lack of correlation between natriuretic response and plasma ANP. 7. The results are not compatible with a direct cause-and-effect relationship between plasma ANP and sodium excretion during head-down tilt. PMID- 2529371 TI - Dissociation of force from myofibrillar MgATPase and stiffness at short sarcomere lengths in rat and toad skeletal muscle. AB - 1. Single fast-twitch fibres from the extensor digitorum longus muscle of the rat, Rattus norvegicus, and single twitch fibres from the iliofibularis muscle of the cane toad, Bufo marinus, were mechanically skinned and then used to measure maximally Ca2+-activated [( Ca2+] greater than 0.03 mmol l-1) isometric force production, myofibrillar MgATPase activity and fibre stiffness at different sarcomere lengths. MgATP hydrolysis was linked by an enzyme cascade to the oxidation of NADH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, reduced form) and was monitored by a microfluorimetric system. Fibre stiffness was measured from the amplitude of force oscillations generated by small sinusoidal length changes. 2. At sarcomere lengths which were optimal for isometric force production (around 2.7 microns for rat and 2.2 microns for toad fibres) the myofibrillar MgATPase activity (mean +/- S.E.M.) at 21-22 degrees C was found to be 3.80 +/- 0.53 molecules MgATP hydrolysed s-1 per myosin head for eight rat fibres and 6.35 +/- 0.77 s-1 per myosin head for four toad fibres. 3. At sarcomere lengths shorter than 2.7 microns in rat fibres and 2.2 microns in toad fibres, MgATPase and stiffness remained elevated and close to their respective values at 2.7 microns in rat fibres and 2.2 microns in toad fibres even when the isometric force decreased to near zero levels. 4. The dissociation at short sarcomere lengths of myofibrillar MgATPase activity and fibre stiffness from isometric force suggests that the cross-bridge cycle is not greatly affected by double actin filament overlap with the myosin filaments at short sarcomere lengths. Moreover, the results suggest that cross-bridges can be formed by myosin with actin filaments projecting from the nearest Z-line and from the Z-line in the other half of the sarcomere. 5. These results help to reconcile energetic and mechanical data obtained by others at short sarcomere lengths and can be explained within the framework of the sliding filament theory. PMID- 2529372 TI - Beta-endorphin and components of depression as powerful discriminators between joggers and sedentary middle-aged men. AB - This study identifies the relative importance of resting plasma beta-endorphin, used as a marker of perceived stress, and components of non-clinical depression that discriminate between physically active joggers and sedentary men. The profiles of joggers (n = 10) and sedentary (n = 10) middle-aged men (40-60 yr) were compared. The jogger group had been running about 20 miles per week for at least 3 yr. RESULTS: as expected, the joggers exhibited greater physical fitness, but lower circulating beta-endorphin (measured with the subjects at rest). The joggers also exhibited greater emotional stability (Eysenck scores), and lower depression (MMPI Scale 2 scores). In addition, the joggers had lower scores on MMPI subscales of depression: subjective depression, physical malfunctioning, mental dullness, and brooding. Multivariate discriminant function analyses showed that subjective depression, beta-endorphin, and physical malfunctioning were powerful discriminators between the jogger and sedentary groups. IN CONCLUSION: (1) subjective depression appeared to be the MMPI component of depression that most powerfully discriminated between joggers and sedentary middle-aged men in this study. (2) Lower beta-endorphin may be an adaptation to exercise training and was related to greater emotional stability and lower depression, especially lower subjective depression. (3) The lower beta-endorphin in the jogger group may be related to lower perceived stress in the joggers, relative to the sedentary group. PMID- 2529373 TI - Laparoscopy in the diagnosis of chronic pelvic pain in adolescent women. AB - Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) in adolescent women is a frequent complaint. We assessed the value of laparoscopy in the differential diagnosis of CPP in 47 adolescents 11-19 years old after six months or more of cyclic or acyclic pelvic pain. No pelvic abnormalities were detected in 19 patients (40.4%), endometriosis was detected in 18 (38.3%) (frequently with nonpigmented or "nonclassic" lesions), partially obstructive genital tract malformations were found in 4 (8.4%), and other types of pathology were discovered in 6 (12.8%). Nearly 60% of the patients had a treatable pelvic disease. Laparoscopy is an invaluable tool in the diagnosis of CPP in adolescents and should be performed before starting a psychiatric evaluation or prescribing long-term medical treatment. PMID- 2529374 TI - Progression of cardiac hypertrophy during long term calcium antagonist treatment with tiapamil. AB - Hypertension complicated by left ventricular hypertrophy is associated with increased morbidity as it leads to left ventricular systolic and diastolic dysfunction. Thus, in the treatment of hypertension, a desirable goal is the regression of left ventricular hypertrophy. Tiapamil, a new calcium antagonist, was evaluated in a 58 week open study to determine its effect on left ventricular mass in relation to its ability to lower blood pressure. Twenty adult patients with mild to moderate hypertension were entered into the study. Blood pressure was significantly reduced from 166 +/- 16/105 +/- 7 mmHg before treatment to 142 +/- 9/88 +/- 4 mmHg after 58 weeks. The posterior and interventricular septal wall thickness and left ventricular systolic dimension did not show any significant change by the end of the trial. On the other hand, left ventricular diastolic dimension, ejection fraction, and left ventricular mass increased significantly (P less than 0.05). Other laboratory parameters were not affected during treatment with the exception of a moderate decrease in the blood glucose. Side effects were mild and self-limiting, and no patients were withdrawn from the study. Although tiapamil appears to be an effective and well-tolerated drug in mild to moderate hypertension, it failed to reduce left ventricular mass. PMID- 2529375 TI - The effect of cilazapril on systolic and diastolic cardiac function in hypertensive patients. AB - Diastolic function may be impaired in hypertensives even before alterations occur in systolic function. We studied the effect of a single dose of cilazapril, 5 mg orally, on systolic and diastolic cardiac function in 20 hypertensive patients using a double-blind crossover placebo controlled design. All patients had mild to moderate concentric left ventricular hypertrophy, preserved systolic function and long standing hypertension (for a period of 11.9 +/- 9.0 years). Radionuclide scintigraphy was performed with cilazapril and placebo, given one week apart. A two-week washout period of all cardioactive drugs preceded the study. Within one hour of oral administration of cilazapril blood pressure was significantly lowered. The absolute time to peak filling rate of the left ventricle, as well as the time to peak filling rate expressed as a percentage of diastole, were reduced from 176 +/- 34 to 158 +/- 33 msec (P less than 0.01) and from 46 +/- 10% to 37 +/- 8% (P less than 0.02) (reduction by 9% and 18.4%, respectively). Heart rate, left and right ventricular ejection fraction and peak filling rate was not significantly altered. Placebo had no significant effect. The effect of cilazapril is most probably related to afterload reduction. In conclusion; cilazapril seems to improve diastolic cardiac function in hypertensive patients. Long-term therapy may result in improvement of other, less sensitive indices of diastolic dysfunction. PMID- 2529376 TI - Application of the disector method in the light microscopic quantification of type II pneumocytes in control and ozone-exposed rats. AB - Alveolar type II cells in control and ozone-exposed rat lungs were counted at the light microscopical level with the 'disector method'. The type II cells were unequivocally marked by histochemical staining for alkaline phosphatase activity in 2 microns plastic sections. By this counting method, the mean number of type II cells per lung in control rats was of the same magnitude as those reported in the literature, using point counting methods. After exposure of rats to 1.6 mg ozone/m3 for 7 days, a 50% increase in the mean number of type II cells was observed. The use of the disector method at the light microscopical level offers some advantages above a quantification at the electron microscopical level. The procedure is less time-consuming, larger areas can be screened, two parallel countings can be performed in one set of sections and there is no need for an exact knowledge about the diameter of the measured particle. PMID- 2529377 TI - Calcium transport and phospholamban in sarcoplasmic reticulum of ischemic myocardium. AB - The present study was designed to examine the relation between the loss of Ca2+ uptake activity and the change of protein phosphorylation in sarcoplasmic reticulum from ischemic myocardium. Ischemic (0.5, 1 and 2 h duration) and non ischemic tissue samples were taken from the coronary-ligated porcine left ventricle and sarcoplasmic reticulum fractions were isolated. The membranes were tested for Ca2+ uptake and ATPase activities and phosphorylation of phospholamban. The in vitro 32P incorporation into phospholamban in the presence of cAMP plus the catalytic subunit of cyclic AMP dependent protein kinase became markedly reduced depending on the duration of ischemia. The activities of the Ca2+ pump (Ca2+ uptake and ATPase) were also decreased. The 32P incorporation into the myofibrillar component troponin I, which is also a specific substrate for catalytic subunit, was not affected by ischemia. The reduction of the Ca2+ pump activity correlated with the reduction of 32P incorporation into phospholamban. It is postulated that the ischemia induced inactivation of the Ca2+ pump is not only a consequence of specific loss of enzyme activity, but it is also caused by altered characteristics of phospholamban. PMID- 2529378 TI - Multiple transcriptional regulatory domains in the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 long terminal repeat are involved in basal and E1A/E1B-induced promoter activity. AB - The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) type 1 long terminal repeat (LTR) is the site of activation of the HIV tat protein. However, additional transactivators, such as the adenovirus E1A and herpesvirus ICPO proteins, have also been shown to be capable of activating the HIV LTR. Analysis of adenovirus mutants indicated that complete transactivation of the HIV LTR was dependent on both the E1A and E1B proteins. To determine which regions of the HIV LTR were important for complete E1A/E1B activation, a variety of oligonucleotide-directed mutations in HIV transcriptional regulatory domains were assayed both in vivo and in vitro. S1 nuclease analysis of RNA prepared after transfection of these HIV constructs into HeLa cells infected with wild-type adenovirus indicated that the enhancer, SP1, TATA, and a portion of the transactivation-responsive element were each required for complete E1A/E1B-mediated activation of the HIV LTR. These same promoter elements were required for both basal and E1A/E1B-induced levels of transcription in in vitro transcription reactions performed with cellular extracts prepared from cells infected with dl434, an E1A/E1B deletion mutant, or wild-type adenovirus. No mutations were found that reduced only E1A/E1B-induced expression without proportionally reducing basal levels of transcription, suggesting that E1A/E1B-mediated induction of the HIV LTR requires multiple promoter elements which are also required for basal transcriptional levels. Unlike activation by the tat protein, there was not a rigid dependence on maintenance of the transactivation-responsive stem base pairing for E1A/E1B-mediated activation either in vivo or in vitro, indicating that activation occurs by a mechanism distinct from that of tat induction. PMID- 2529380 TI - Interventional procedures in peripheral atherosclerotic disease. PMID- 2529381 TI - Effect of sodium restriction on platelet function in patients with essential hypertension. AB - The effects of sodium intake on blood pressure and platelet function were evaluated in 19 subjects with essential hypertension (10 men and 9 women; mean age 49.7 years). The study was conducted under 3 conditions: (1) normal sodium diet (12 g/day of salt was used in cooking), (2) after 5 days of mild sodium restriction diet (6 g/day of salt was used in cooking) and (3) after moderate sodium restriction (no salt was used in cooking). Blood pressure was significantly reduced following sodium restriction without any change in heart rate. The ratio of the plasma level of beta-thromboglobulin to platelet factor IV, regarded as the most reliable index for platelet activation in vivo, increased significantly after mild sodium restriction; this change was maintained after moderate sodium restriction. Plasma thromboxane B2, a stable metabolite of thromboxane A2, increased significantly after sodium restriction; the level of 6 ketoprostaglandin F1 alpha, a stable metabolite of prostacyclin, was unaffected. These results indicate that dietary sodium restriction induces both a reduction of blood pressure and an activation of platelet function in vivo. Thus, one must consider both antihypertensive effects and effects on platelet function as factors in adjusting the dietary sodium intake in the course of antihypertensive therapy. PMID- 2529379 TI - Processing the nonstructural polyproteins of sindbis virus: nonstructural proteinase is in the C-terminal half of nsP2 and functions both in cis and in trans. AB - The processing of the Sindbis virus nonstructural polyprotein translated in vitro has been studied. When Sindbis virus genomic RNA was translated in a reticulocyte lysate, polyprotein P123 was cleaved efficiently to produce nsP1, nsP2, and nsP3. Inhibition of this processing by anti-nsP2 antibodies, but not by antibodies specific for nsP1, nsP3, or nsP4, suggested that the viral proteinase was present in nsP2. To localize the proteolytic activity more precisely, deletions were made in a full-length cDNA clone of Sindbis virus, and RNA was transcribed from these constructs with SP6 RNA polymerase and translated in vitro. Although virtually all of the nsP1, nsP3, and nsP4 sequences could be deleted without affecting processing, deletions in the N-terminal half of nsP2 led to aberrant processing, and deletions in the C-terminal half abolished proteolysis. However, inactive polyproteins containing the nsP2 deletions could be processed by exogenously supplied proteins translated from virion RNA, demonstrating that cleavage was virus specific and not due to a protease present in the reticulocyte lysate and that the deleted polyproteins still served as substrates for the enzyme. From these results and from experiments in which processing was studied at increasingly higher dilution, we have concluded the following: (i) the viral nonstructural proteinase is located in the C-terminal half of nsP2; (ii) in the P123 precursor the cleavage between nsP2 and nsP3 occurs efficiently as a bimolecular reaction (in trans) to remove nsP3, while the bond between nsP1 and nsP2 is cleaved inefficiently, but detectably, in trans, but no autoproteolysis of P123 was detected; (iii) once nsP3 has been removed, the bond between nsP1 and nsP2 in the P12 precursor is cleaved efficiently by autoproteolysis (in cis). This mode of processing leads to a slow rate of cleavage, particularly early in infection, suggesting that the polyproteins might play roles in virus RNA replication distinct from those of the cleaved products. A hypothesis is presented that the proteinase is a thiol protease related to papain. PMID- 2529382 TI - [A case of chronic myelogenous leukemia complicated with nephrotic syndrome]. AB - An 81-year-old woman was admitted, complained general malaise, and edema on face and lower extremities. In the peripheral blood, leucocytosis (17,220/mm3), microcytic hypochromic anemia (RBC 348 x 10(4)/mm3, Hb 9.6 g/dl, Ht 29.2%), and thrombocytosis (130 x 10(4)/mm3) were present, and many myeloid cells containing of myeloblasts, promyelocytes and so on were observed. Bone marrow aspiration revealed increment of the myeloid series without hiatus leukemia . The Neutrophil Alkaline Phosphatase score and rate was low, and on bone marrow scintigram using indium chloride, liver and extremities were shown. On admission, proteinuria (21.5 g/dl) and hypoalbuminemia (2.5 g/day) were pointed out, and the renal biopsy specimen showed membraneous proliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN), so we diagnosed this case that chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) complicated with nephrotic syndrome. At first, she was treated with prednisolone, but proteinuria was not entirely improved, then busulfan was given, myeloid cells in peripheral blood were disappeared and proteinuria was gradually decreased. From this coarse, the causality between CML and nephrotic syndrome was verified. PMID- 2529384 TI - [Electrolyte imbalance in the elderly]. AB - Imbalance of water and electrolytes in the elderly was investigated. In the elderly, hyponatremia is the most common electrolyte imbalance disorder and half of the cases with hyponatremia are accompanied by malignancy. It is well known that renal function decreases with ageing, and hyporeninemic hypoaldosteronism, relative AVP unresponsiveness and high level of plasma ANP are observed in the elderly. Therefore, renin-aldosterone system, AVP and ANP as well as renal function of the elderly were studied. AVP response to osmotic stimulus in the elderly increased, indicating that osmostat hypersensitivity existed in the elderly. The response of ANP to hypertonic saline infusion was well preserved. Increase in FENa with decrease in GFR and decreased salt-retaining renal capacity, with low response of the renin-aldosterone system, under low salt intake were observed in the elderly. Therefore, the low response of renin aldosterone system may be, in part, involved in the pathophysiology. Plasma ANP positively correlated with FENa and the rate of the response of FENa to endogenous ANP was lower in the elderly than in young adults. In addition, the ANP disappearance rate from plasma in the elderly decreased. It was, therefore, suggested that those factors might be, in part, responsible for the increase in plasma ANP level. Accordingly, a high plasma ANP level might be relatively non contributory to hyponatremia in the elderly. In summary, hyponatremia is the most common disorder of electrolyte imbalance in the elderly.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2529383 TI - [Evaluation of the laser-Doppler velocimetry method in the measurement of gastric blood flow in rats--spatial resolution]. AB - In this paper, gastric blood flow in rats was measured with the laser-Doppler velocimetry method (the LDV method) to study about the tissue locus where its flow signal arises (spatial resolution). In the measurement throughout some 1 mm thickness of another nonperfused gastric wall interposed between the laser probe and gastric mucosal surface, its laser flow signal was 17% of the flow signal in the usual measurement. In the blood flow measurement with the LDV prove on the mucosal and the serosal surface of gastric wall, the laser flow signal on the mucosal surface was higher (p less than 0.05) than that on the serosal surface. These results suggested that the laser flow signal mainly arose from the tissue right under the laser probe, reflecting the total gastric blood flow of the gastric wall. In the regional blood flow measurement at corpus and antrum, the ratio between antral and corpus flow signals by the LDV method was similar to that between gastric mucosal blood flows at both sites by the hydrogen gas clearance technique. In the blood flow measurement after the intravenous infusion of each pentagastrin, isoproterenol, and vasopressin, flow signal of the LDV method could detect the each effect of these drugs on gastric mucosal blood flow as well as well as the hydrogen gas clearance technique. These results showed that the laser flow signal and gastric mucosal blood flow were mutually correlated.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2529385 TI - Plasma concentration and renal effect of human atrial natriuretic peptide in nephrotic syndrome. AB - To elucidate the pathophysiological role of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) in nephrotic syndrome, the plasma level of ANP and renal response to exogenous human alpha-ANP (alpha-hANP) were measured in untreated adult patients with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (NS) and compared with those of normal volunteers (NL). The plasma concentration of immunoreactive ANP (ir-ANP) in NS (112 +/- 9.8 pg/ml, n = 9, mean +/- SE) was not significantly different from that in NL (98 +/- 8.0 pg/ml, n = 13). However, a significant positive correlation was observed between the plasma ir-ANP level and blood volume in NS (r = 0.714, p less than 0.05). In an infusion study with synthetic alpha-hANP (25 to 100 ng/kg/min), the urine flow rate increased from 0.67 +/- 0.08 to 7.11 +/- 1.08 ml/min in NL (n = 5, p less than 0.01) and from 0.64 +/- 0.16 to 2.88 +/- 0.70 ml/min in NS (n = 9, p less than 0.05) and the urinary sodium excretion increased from 115 +/- 16 to 466 +/- 62 microEq/min in NL (p less than 0.01) and from 51 +/- 8 to 207 +/- 58 microEq/min in NS (p less than 0.01). The absolute and percent changes in urine flow rate and the absolute change in sodium excretion were lower in NS (p less than 0.05) than in NL. The percent change in sodium excretion in NS did not differ from that in NL. In 2 patients with high plasma ir-ANP concentrations, however, infusion of ANP induced poor sodium excretion (59 and 95 microEq/min at 100 ng/kg/min ANP infusion, respectively). Hemodynamic and renal parameters such as blood pressure, pulse rate and creatinine clearance were similarly affected in both NL and NS. We also found that the urinary excretion of protein was significantly increased in NS (p less than 0.05) during infusion of alpha-hANP. Our data suggest that the plasma level of ir-ANP is regulated by blood volume status, and that the renal responsiveness to ANP, at least in part, contributes to water and sodium retention in NS. PMID- 2529386 TI - Ultrastructural and metabolic profiles on single muscle fibers of different types after hindlimb suspension in rats. AB - The relationships between ultrastructural and metabolic profiles in different types of single muscle fiber after hindlimb suspension in rats were examined. Glycolytic (lactate dehydrogenase, LDH; phosphofructokinase, PFK) and oxidative (succinate dehydrogenase, SDH; malate dehydrogenase, MDH) enzyme activities in extensor digitorum longus (EDL) and soleus (SOL) muscles were measured. Relative mitochondrial and lipid droplet volumes were also measured in single muscle fiber of different types. Glycolytic enzyme activity in EDL muscle and oxidative enzyme activity in soleus muscle decreased following suspension for 2 weeks. LDH and PFK activities in fast-twitch (FG, fast-twitch glycolytic; FOG, fast-twitch oxidative glycolytic) fibers and oxidative enzymes in FOG and FG fibers decreased following suspension. Relative mitochondrial volume decreased significantly in all types (SO, slow-twitch oxidative; FOG, and FG) of fibers following suspension. The mitochondrial volume in SO fiber of the control group was significantly (p less than 0.01) higher than that of suspended group; however, SDH and MDH activities were not different between the control and suspended groups. The structural and metabolic changes following hindlimb suspension were influenced by different factors, respectively. Changes in ultrastructural and metabolic profiles in response to the hindlimb suspension differed according to the type of fibers. PMID- 2529387 TI - Electroencephalographic findings of hereditary dentatorubral-pallidoluysian atrophy (DRPLA). AB - The electroencephalograms (EEGs) of 22 patients suffering from hereditary DRPLA were studied. Epileptoform patterns were observed in 14 patients (63.6%) with epileptic seizures. The epileptoform patterns most frequently observed were those atypical spike-wave complexes. Slow wave bursts were seen in 18 patients (81.8%). Photosensitivity was revealed in six (27.3%) patients, all of whom presented progressive myoclonus epilepsy (PME) syndrome. Abnormal background activity was evident in 17 (77.3%) patients. These abnormalities in EEG were more severe in patients in the PME type than those of the A (ataxia) and AE (ataxia and epilepsy) types. PMID- 2529388 TI - [Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty in patients with prior coronary artery bypass grafting]. AB - Seventeen patients with stenosis of bypass grafts or native coronary arteries (NCA) following coronary artery bypass underwent percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTCA). Stenoses were located in the saphenous vein graft (SVG) in 11 cases (involving 16 lesions), in the internal mammary artery graft (IMAG) in 2 cases (2 lesions), and in the NCA in 9 cases (13 lesions). All patients had disabling angina pectoris or a post-operative stenosis of more than 50%. PTCA was successful in 75% of all the SVG stenotic lesions, 50% of the IMAG lesions and in 67% of the NCA lesions. There were no complications associated with PTCA. After successful PTCA, restenosis developed in 23% of the SVG cases, 0% of the IMAG cases and in 38% of the NCA cases. Though relief of chest pain was found in 10 patients (59%), PTCA of the NCA was not so effective as PTCA of the bypass grafts. PMID- 2529389 TI - [Clinical and endocrinological studies of the luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone analogue therapy in prostatic cancer patients]. AB - A luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LH-RH) analogue was administered for 3 to 32 months to 15 prostatic cancer patients in stage B-D (B:3, C:8, D:4). Intratesticular, intratubular and prostatic androgen levels were measured by radioimmunoassay before and after LH-RH analogue therapy. The measurement of serum prostatic acid phosphatase (PAP) and prostatic specific antigen (PA) levels was also conducted. Thereafter, we assessed the effect of the LH-RH analogue on androgen levels and the relation of prostatic tissue 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) level to the clinical response. The results were as follows: 1) Johnsen's mean germinal epithelium count was significantly decreased from 7.7 +/- 2.1 (mean +/- S.D.) to 4.3 +/- 2.3, and the wall thickness of seminiferous tubules was increased from 5.93 +/- 1.31 to 11.9 +/- 3.64 microns. 2) Plasma testosterone (T), intratesticular and intratubular androgen levels were significantly decreased (plasma T: from 4.40 +/- 1.84 to 0.61 +/- 0.32 ng/ml, intratesticular T: from 335.3 +/- 170.3 to 4.6 +/- 3.8 ng/g.t.w., DHT: from 25.3 +/- 11.7 to 3.7 +/- 2.7 ng/g.t.w., intratubular T: from 50.8 +/- 36.6 to 0.10 +/- 0.99 ng/g.t.w. and DHT: 7.54 +/- 3.20 to 0.63 +/- 0.90 ng/g.t.w.). 3) Crude nuclear DHT levels in prostatic tissue fell from 15.3 +/- 9.3 (N = 8) to 0.37 +/- 0.54 pg/mg protein (N = 3) and the level was non-detectable in 5 of 8 cases. 4) Complete remission was achieved in 1 patient, partial response in 5, objective stable in 8, and objective progression in 1 patient, according to Shimazaki's criteria.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2529390 TI - [Diathermic laparoscopic cholecystostomy]. PMID- 2529391 TI - [Incarcerated hernia of the spigelian line with perforation of the gallbladder]. PMID- 2529392 TI - [Endoscopic methods in the diagnosis and treatment of mechanical jaundice of non neoplastic etiology]. AB - The authors analyse the results of treatment of 255 patients with obstructive jaundice of nonneoplastic origin. Various endoscopic methods were used. Endoscopic interventions were carried out in the first two days in 79.8% of cases. Laparoscopic cholecystostomy was conducted in 138 patients; jaundice was relieved in 3 to 20 days in 95% of cases. It is shown that the best results of operative treatment of patients with acute cholecystitis complicated by choledocholithiasis are produced in concurrent use of laparoscopic cholecystostomy and endoscopic papillosphincterotomy. PMID- 2529393 TI - [Direct cholecystography after laparoscopic cholecystostomy in acute cholecystitis]. AB - Direct cholegraphy was performed after laparoscopic cholecystostomy in 82 patients. It should be conducted on the operating table if proper fixation of the draining tube is doubtful, but, mainly, on the fourth or fifth postoperative day. Double contrasting of the biliary tract with air and a contrast medium produces the best result. PMID- 2529394 TI - [Transhepatic laparoscopic puncture in hydrops of the gallbladder with drainage of the subhepatic space]. AB - Experience is recorded with the two-step treatment of 7 patients with acute cholecystitis. The first step in the acute stage comprised unblocking laparoscopic transhepatic puncture of the gall bladder with instillation of hibitan solution and gentamycin in the bladder cavity and subsequent drainage of the subhepatic space. The second step (after 20 days) was that of the radical surgical intervention in a stage of remission (cholecystectomy in 5 patients and cholecystectomy with choledochotomy and extraction of calculi from the common bile duct in 2). The postoperative period was uneventful and the patients were discharged from hospital in a very good state of well-being without any complication. Unblocking laparoscopic transhepatic puncture of the gall bladder with drainage of the subhepatic space proved to be the method of choice for treatment of acute cholecystitis in the acute stage of the disease. Risk operations in this stage were postponed and were performed during the stage of remission. PMID- 2529395 TI - [Pseudokeratoconus in trisomy 21 and posterior polymorphous corneal dystrophy]. AB - The authors examined three members of a family with an autosomal dominant trait of posterior polymorphous corneal dystrophy of varying expressivity. The 67-year old white mother had a visual acuity of 20/30, with only discrete irregularities at the level of Descemet's membrane. The daughter developed bullous keratopathy with polymorphous ring-shaped opacities in the central area of Descemet's membrane early, in her 34th year. The 25-year-old son, who also had Down's syndrome, presented with the clinical symptoms of acute keratoconus. Light microscopy revealed a thickened, multilaminated Descemet's membrane with vesicles, breaks, and dislocation of endothelial cells into the deep stroma. Transmission electron microscopy showed a normal anterior, ribbonlike portion of Descemet's membrane and a fibroblastic differentiation of the corneal endothelial cells. PMID- 2529396 TI - Treatment of murine lupus with monoclonal antibody to L3T4. II. Effects on immunohistopathology of thymus, spleen, and lymph node. AB - Monoclonal antibody to L3T4 has been used successfully to suppress autoimmunity in the New Zealand black/New Zealand white F1 (B/W) mouse model for systemic lupus erythematosus. To clarify the immunopathology of murine lupus and determine the effects of anti-L3T4 treatment on the cellular composition and histopathology of lymphoid organs, we examined the distribution of lymphocyte subsets in cryostat sections of the thymus, spleen, and lymph nodes of B/W mice. Immunohistologic specimens were obtained from female B/W mice that had received weekly intraperitoneal injections of either rat monoclonal antibody to L3T4 (2 mg/mouse/week) or phosphate buffered saline (200 microliters/mouse/week) from age 5 months until euthanasia at 8 months. B and T cell domains in each organ were identified on serial sections with monoclonal antibody directed against B220 (all B cells), Thy-1.2 (all T cells), L3T4 (helper T cells), and Ly-2 (cytotoxic/suppressor T cells). In control mice, striking cytoarchitectural abnormalities were identified in the thymuses, and the spleen and lymph nodes were hypertrophied relative to anti-L3T4 treated mice. Thymic abnormalities included amplification of medulla, formation of thymomas, and cortical atrophy. Amplified medullary regions and thymomas in B/W mice contained numerous B cells and L3T4+ T cells but few Ly-2+ T cells. The enlarged spleens and lymph nodes of control mice consisted of numerous secondary follicles with germinal centers containing an unusual subpopulation of T cells that expressed L3T4 but not Thy 1.2. In contrast, mice treated with anti-L3T4 did not develop histopathologic changes characteristic of systemic lupus erythematosus in any organ. However, treatment depleted L3T4+ cells from the spleen and lymph nodes, and it modulated the expression of L3T4 by thymocytes. These observations demonstrate that treatment with anti-L3T4 not only interferes with L3T4-dependent T cell functions, but it also prevents progressive abnormalities in lymphoid tissue in lupus-prone B/W mice. This preservation of normal lymphoid structure may contribute to the beneficial effects of anti-L3T4 on autoimmunity. PMID- 2529397 TI - Double-valve percutaneous balloon dilatation. PMID- 2529398 TI - Percutaneous balloon catheter occlusion of the Potts shunt: an adjunct during surgical closure. PMID- 2529399 TI - In vitro and in vivo cytotoxic activity of anti-human leukemia monoclonal antibodies SN5c and SN6 daunorubicin conjugates. AB - Murine monoclonal antibodies SN5c specific for the common acute lymphoblastic leukemia antigen (CALLA) and SN6 specific for a novel GP160 tumor associated antigen expressed on non-T ALL and myelomonocytic leukemia cells were conjugated to daunorubicin via an intermediate dextran carrier. The resulting monoclonal antibody-daunorubicin conjugates retained the immunoreactivity of the unlabeled antibody to antigen positive leukemia target cells. In addition, these conjugates demonstrated selective cytotoxic activity when tested against a panel of human leukemia cell lines and/or human leukemia patient samples of peripheral blood or bone marrow origin. The SN5c and SN6-daunorubicin immunoconjugates were superior to a non-specific isotype matched MOPC-daunorubicin conjugate in in vitro cytotoxicity assays. Free daunorubicin, however, was more cytotoxic than either immunoconjugate but lacked selectivity. SN5c-daunorubicin and SN6-daunorubicin combined were as effective as free daunorubicin when used for in vivo therapy and led to complete ablation of established NALM-6 tumors in an athymic nude mouse model. The SN5c-daunorubicin conjugate was also shown to be significantly less toxic than free daunorubicin in non-tumor bearing Balb/c mice. These studies indicate that mAb-daunorubicin conjugates can be constructed which retain specific binding and exhibit selective cytotoxicity against human leukemia cells and suggest that they may have therapeutic applications. PMID- 2529400 TI - A comparative study of the Ca2+-Mg2+ dependent ATPase from skeletal muscles of young, adult and old rats. AB - Sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) vesicles isolated from skeletal muscle of Sprague Dawley rats ranging in age from 4 months to 28 months were studied and compared. A marked decline, with age, was observed in the amount of (total) SR proteins isolated per gram of muscle tissue used. This decline is in line with the known loss of muscle fiber mass and size with advancing age; however, whether the magnitudes of these two effects are indeed identical, remains to be studied. In contrast, no analogous age-related change was detected in the amount of SR protein per unit mass of rat cardiac muscle. The calcium contents, per mg protein, in SR vesicles isolated from rats of all age groups studied did not differ significantly, and represented only a small fraction of the total capacity of the vesicles for this cation. This capacity was found to decline at old age and this effect, combined with the age-related decrease in the concentration of SR proteins in the tissue, indicate a significant decline in calcium sequestration ability in old muscle. Both basal (Ca2+ independent) and calcium stimulated ATPase activities were found not to be affected by age. In contrast, the efficiency of Ca2+ transport across the SR membrane, as reflected by the number of calcium ions pumped into the vesicles per ATP cleaved, declined from a value of 0.37 at 3-4 months to 0.15 at 24 months. This change may represent an age-related reduction in the fraction of coupled SR vesicles, possibly due to alterations in the membrane. SR vesicle preparations from both young and old rats displayed strongly biphasic inactivation kinetics when incubated at 37 degrees C. This may reflect the heterogeneity of muscles in the tissue used, or be due to the presence of a mixture of coupled and uncoupled vesicles in the SR preparations. The rate of the first step in the ATPase inactivation, in which about 75% of the activity is lost, was found to be affected by age, the old SR vesicles being markedly more labile than their young counterparts. In contrast, no difference was detected between the inactivation kinetics of young and old ATPase proteins dissolved in Triton X-100 and the inactivation was monophasic down to less than 6% of the original activity. These results indicate that the age-related modifications in the stability of the SR calcium pump system involve the membrane but not the ATPase protein. The inactivation of the SR ATPase is believed to proceed via dissociation of the dimeric enzyme to (unstable) subunits. It is therefore likely that changes in the SR membrane in old muscle render the ATPase more dissociable. PMID- 2529401 TI - Age-related changes in contact photosensitivity differ among mouse strains. AB - There are differences among mouse strains in the age-related changes in reactivity to the contact photosensitizer tetrachlorosalicylanilide (TCSA). We found a tendency to lower reactions in older mice, with some strains showing declines from an early age (BALB/cJ, MRL/MpJ +/+, MRL/MpJ lpr/lpr and SJL/J). Others had increasing reactions until about 30-50 weeks of age before declining (DBA/1J, C3H/HeJ, and A/J) and one strain (C57BL/6J) had increased reactivity with age. There are also differences in the role of cyclophosphamide-sensitive T suppressor cells in these age-related changes. In some mouse strains, BALB/cJ, C57BL/6J, A/J, DBA/1J and C3H/HeJ, age-related changes in reactivity to TCSA are independent of changes in cyclophosphamide-sensitive suppressor cells. In other strains, MRL/MpJ +/+, MRL/MpJ lpr/lpr and SJL/J, the development of cyclophosphamide-sensitive suppressor cells is responsible for the initial, though not later, stages of the age-related decline in reactivity. PMID- 2529402 TI - [Lipoprotein Lp(a) in patients with chronic renal insufficiency on hemodialysis]. AB - An increased concentration of lipoprotein Lp(a) is considered a risk factor for coronary artery disease. In the present study, the plasma levels of Lp(a), total cholesterol, cholesterol bound to high density lipoproteins (C-HDL), and triglycerides (TG) were measured in 50 patients with chronic renal failure treated with hemodialysis (HD). The results were compared with those from a control group constituted by 46 individuals. Hypertriglyceridemia was detected in 34% of the HD patients and in none of the controls (p less than 0.001); also, a significant reduction of C-HDL level was found in the HD group as compared with controls (p less than 0.001). These two results are in agreement with previously reported data. The outstanding result of our study was the higher prevalence of positive Lp(a) (greater than 30 mg/dl) in the HD group as compared with controls (p less than 0.05). As the increase in Lp(a) is a risk factor for coronary artery disease, we suggest that its measurement may be helpful to delineate the serum lipid profile of these patients. PMID- 2529403 TI - [Cellular mechanisms in diabetic neuropathy]. AB - Although the pathogenesis of distal diabetic neuropathy is still uncertain, a possible mechanism might be postulated on the basis of results of several experimental studies. Differences between animal and human models are obvious- especially with regard to the time factor, but in attempts at elucidating basic mechanisms use can be made of the close resemblance between animal and human nerve fibres at the cellular and molecular level. A decrease in sodium potassium ATPase activity, causing intracellular accumulation of oxidised sodium, cellular oedema, and myelin detachment around the nodes of Ranvier, would seem to be the central component in the pathogenesis. PMID- 2529404 TI - [Expert opinion: There is no prove of increased risk of skin diseases or flicker problems in working with video terminals]. PMID- 2529405 TI - [Spinal manipulation for pain relief]. PMID- 2529406 TI - [Sacroilitis and abuse of anabolic steroids]. PMID- 2529408 TI - Effect of sodium intake on fasting and postprandial levels of atrial natriuretic factor in humans. AB - The effect of chronic dietary sodium intake on fasting and postprandial plasma atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) levels was examined in 2 studies of normal humans. In Study I, 3 separate groups of normals (n = 8 for each) received diets of either low (L), normal (N) or high (H) daily sodium intake for 7 days. Twenty four h urines for sodium were obtained on days 6 and 7. Urine sodium excretion for each group was (L) 13.1 +/- 3.7, (N) 150.1 +/- 19.4 and (H) 271.3 +/- 33.6 mEq/day. On the completion of day 7, fasting plasma ANF showed no change with alteration in sodium intake. In contrast, when blood samples were obtained postprandially, significant increases in plasma ANF were observed in the group maintained on high sodium diet. In Study II, a continuous group of normals (n = 8) received the 3 sodium controlled diets for 7 days sequentially (L/N/H). No significant changes in fasting levels of ANF were detected between L/N/H sodium diets. In conclusion, these studies show that the maintenance of sodium balance during chronic changes in sodium intake can occur despite no significant increase in plasma ANF under normal steady state conditions. However, plasma ANF is significantly elevated during chronic high sodium intake, when measured postprandially. PMID- 2529407 TI - Dopamine receptor occupancy in vivo: measurement using N-ethoxycarbonyl-2-ethoxy 1,2-dihydroquinoline (EEDQ). AB - N-ethoxycarbonyl-2-ethoxy-1,2-dihydroquinoline (EEDQ) inactivates a variety of monoamine neurotransmitter receptors. In this report, protection against EEDQ induced inactivation of D-1 and D-2 DA receptors by DA antagonists and agonists was used to obtain a measure of occupancy of these receptors in vivo by such drugs. Rats were pretreated with drugs and then given EEDQ (10 mg/kg, i.p.). Twenty-four hours after the EEDQ injections, the animals were decapitated and the number of receptors remaining was measured using conventional receptor binding assays. The D-1 antagonist SCH 23390 potently protected D-1 sites from EEDQ induced inactivation in a dose-dependent manner. Similarly, NO-756, another D-1 antagonist, selectively protected D-1 sites from inactivation. Conversely, haloperidol, a relatively selective D-2 antagonist, protected D-2 sites from inactivation. Likewise, a number of antipsychotic DA antagonists also protected D 2 sites from inactivation. Clozapine, fluperlapine, and (+) butaclamol were effective at protecting both D-1 sites and D-2 sites. In addition, the D-1 agonist SKF 38393 protected D-1 sites from EEDQ-induced inactivation, whereas the D-2 agonist quinpirole protected D-2 sites. (-) Apomorphine, a mixed D-1/D-2 agonist, protected both sites. Thus, this type of method provides a simple means of evaluating the occupation of DA receptors by DA antagonists and agonists in vivo. PMID- 2529409 TI - Immunoreactive evidence of beta-endorphin and methionine-enkephalin-Arg-Gly-Leu in human tooth pulp. AB - For the first time, beta-endorphin-like immunoreactivity (BE-LI) has been measured in human tooth pulp. Separation of peptides from pulp tissue was achieved by acid extraction followed by chromatographic separation through a Sep Pak disposable cartridge. Reversed phase high performance liquid chromatographic (RP-HPLC) was performed on the peptide-rich fractions for further peptide separation. Radioreceptor assay (RRA) data of the HPLC fractions was used to construct a profile of opioid-receptor active peptides. Radioimmunoassay (RIA) data provided further information. Following acute mechanical stress, a monotonic decrease in BE-LI concentrations was evident according to a four bicuspid extraction order. PMID- 2529410 TI - Different pituitary beta-endorphin and adrenal cortisol response to ethanol in individuals with high and low risk for future development of alcoholism. AB - The purpose of the present studies was to investigate the activity of the adrenal gland and the pituitary beta-endorphin system in individuals from families with a 3 generation history of alcoholism, High Risk group, or from families without history of alcoholism, Low Risk group. All subjects had a medical examination, a drinking behavior personal interview and the Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test. Individuals with medical problems or excessive drinking were not included in the study. On the day of testing, a blood sample was taken at 9:00 a.m., then the subject drank a placebo drink or an ethanol solution (0.5 g ethanol/kg B.Wt.). Additional blood samples were taken at 15, 45 and 120 minutes post-drink. Results indicated that individuals of the High Risk group had lower basal levels of beta endorphin like immunoreactivity (beta-EPLIR) than individuals of the Low Risk group. The dose of 0.5 g ethanol/kg B.Wt. induced an increase in the plasma content of beta-EPLIR of the High Risk group, but not of the Low Risk group. In the Low Risk group ethanol did not induce an increase above the 9:00 a.m. levels, however, it attenuated the beta-endorphin decrease overtime, observed following the placebo drink. Analysis of beta-endorphin-like peptides in the plasma of the High Risk group, with Sephadex G-75 chromatography indicated that the major component of the plasma beta-EPLIR was beta-lipotropin. Plasma cortisol levels, following ethanol intake, presented a small increase in the High Risk group but not in the Low Risk group. Both groups presented similar blood alcohol levels. The basal levels of immunoreactive cortisol and beta-endorphin in the plasma of individuals who were alcoholics, but had been abstinent for at least six months prior to testing were similar to the levels of the High Risk group. Thus there are differences both in the basal levels and in the response of the cortisol and the pituitary beta-endorphin system to an acute ethanol challenge between the two groups. PMID- 2529411 TI - Urinary excretion of free progestins, androgens, and estradiol after injection of (1-24)ACTH in the Mongolian gerbil. AB - Injection of a "long-acting" synthetic adrenocorticotrophin [(1-24)ACTH, 20 IU/animal] into Mongolian gerbils resulted in a 3.1 fold increase of urinary free testosterone excretion over 2 days. It was accompanied by an elevation of urinary free progesterone (2.1 fold), 17-hydroxyprogesterone (2.5 fold), DHEA (2.8 fold) and androstenedione (3.0 fold) excretion. Similarly, administration of human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG, 100 IU/animal) increased urinary excretion of free testosterone (2.3 fold), progesterone (4.1 fold), 17-hydroxyprogesterone (2.9 fold), DHEA (4.6 fold), androstenedione (5.4 fold) and of estradiol (2.9 fold). Data presented in this work show that the measurement of urinary free steroid excretion represents a reliable index for the secretory activity of the adrenal gonadal-axis, and that it may in some aspects be more practicable than the measurement of steroid plasma levels, especially in small laboratory animals, enabling us to monitor the excretion of various steroids over longer time periods without stressing the animals by handling/or blood sampling. PMID- 2529412 TI - Structural specificity of beta-endorphin C-terminal tetrapeptide (MPF) in promoting urodele limb regeneration. AB - The ability of B-endorphin to initiate limb regeneration in hypophysectomised newts is confined to the human species of the peptide and is contained in its C terminal tetrapeptide sequence, Lys-Lys-Gly-Glu (MPF). Results with fifteen MPF analogs show that: (a) small structural change at the C-terminal Glu residue destroys activity, (b) at the Gly position, change of -NH-CH2-CO by -NH-NH-CO- (Azgly) or -NH-CHMe-CO- (Ala) also destroys the activity, but methylation of the NH results in an analog (Sar) with good activity, (c) analogs in which the Lys residues are replaced by D-Lys, Nle or Orn may retain some activity, particularly when the second Lys is replaced by D-Lys, and (d) the activity is retained or increased by N-terminal acylation. By combining 'favourable' changes, an analog acetyl-Lys-D-Lys-Sar-Glu was devised which was 1.25 times more potent than MPF, and metabolically more stable. PMID- 2529413 TI - Laser-Doppler versus fluorometry in the postoperative assessment of a cutaneous free flap. AB - To find the optimal means for monitoring the vascularity of a cutaneous free flap in the postoperative period, we have experimentally compared laser-Doppler velocimetry and fluorometry. Using the rat groin model, five groups were evaluated: 1. flap isolation without division of the pedicle vessels (island flap); 2) flap isolation, division, and repair of the pedicle artery and vein (free flap); 3) flap isolation, with ligation of the pedicle artery immediately or 1 hour later; 4) flap isolation, with ligation of the pedicle vein immediately or 1 hour later; 5) flap isolation, with ligation of the pedicle artery and vein immediately or 1 hour later. The laser-Doppler processes the signal by combination of the root mean square and differential amplification. The fluoroscan gives an index in relation to the fluorescence of a control area. The results obtained with both methods correlated well with findings in clinical situations. However, the laser-Doppler readings were more rapid and sensitive than those with fluorometry. We suggest that laser-Doppler velocimetry is a superior means of monitoring the vascular status of a free tissue transfer or digital replant. PMID- 2529414 TI - Laser Doppler monitoring of replants using a small prism probe. AB - Eighteen patients admitted to Duke University Medical Center for upper limb replantation or revascularization were studied. A small laser Doppler flow prism probe and a cutaneous temperature probe were attached to the distal pulp of replanted digits. Measurements were recorded hourly for the first 3 postoperative days. In the successful cases, the mean laser Doppler flow measurement was 1.76 units (lower 97% confidence limit 0.5 units) and the mean temperature was 34.1 degrees C (lower 97% confidence limit 32 degrees C). In 4 patients with vascular compromise, the laser Doppler flow correctly identified the problem. The reduced size of the new laser Doppler probe makes monitoring of distal pulp flow technically easier while maintaining accuracy. PMID- 2529415 TI - Independent and coupled translational initiation of atp genes in Escherichia coli: experiments using chromosomal and plasmid-borne lacZ fusions. AB - The translational initiation rates directed by the translational initiation regions (TIRs) of the atpB, atpH, atpA and atpG genes of Escherichia coli were investigated using lacZ fusions present on plasmids as well as integrated into the chromosome. This was the first investigation of the translational efficiency of the atpB gene, whose unfused product (subunit a) can be toxic to the cell. The specific mRNA levels, rates of in vivo protein synthesis and beta-galactosidase activities encoded by the atp::lacZ fusions were compared in order to obtain valid estimates of relative translation rates. The results indicate that in the E. coli atp operon, translation directed by the atpB, atpH and atpG TIRs is less efficient than that directed by the atpA TIR, and are thus consistent with earlier measurements of direct atp gene expression. Initiation is, however, to differing extents, controlled by coupling to the translation of upstream neighbours. There is particularly tight coupling between atpH and atpA. Increasing the distance between these two genes whilst maintaining the original atpA TIR structure decreased the degree of coupling. The influence of manipulations of the atpG TIR structure upon translational efficiency was quantitatively more pronounced when the atpG fusions were present as a single copy per chromosome. This is likely to be related to the mRNA binding characteristics of 30S ribosomal subunits and/or to the influence of other (trans acting) factors. The control of independent and coupled initiation at the atp TIRs is discussed in relation to mRNA structure and possible cis and trans regulatory phenomena. PMID- 2529416 TI - Possible involvement of atrial natriuretic factor in the antihypertensive action of a high-calcium diet in spontaneously hypertensive and Wistar-Kyoto rats. AB - The present study was designed to determine the possible involvement of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) in the hypotensive action of a high-calcium diet. The effects of increased dietary calcium (2.9% calcium, HCa) on blood pressure, urinary sodium excretion, and ANF were examined in 30 spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and 30 Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY). Control groups of 30 SHR and 30 WKY were fed normal calcium lab chow (0.4% calcium, NCa). The HCa diet reduced blood pressure and serum phosphorus concentration and increased urinary excretion of sodium and calcium in SHR and WKY. The HCa diet also caused a sustained increase in plasma ANF concentration and, finally, a decrease in atrial ANF concentration in both groups. A significant inverse correlation was observed between ANF concentrations in plasma and atria of the four experimental groups. Plasma ANF concentration was positively correlated with daily calcium consumption, and blood pressure was inversely correlated with daily calcium consumption in HCa- and NCa SHR groups and in HCa- and NCa-WKY groups, respectively. Furthermore, a significant inverse correlation between blood pressure and plasma ANF concentration was observed in SHR groups and in WKY groups, respectively. The observed sustained increment in endogenous plasma ANF concentration, which is probably caused by increased secretion from the atrium, may contribute, in part, to the blood-pressure-lowering effects of the HCa diet. PMID- 2529417 TI - "Correct" correction factor to use with the two-slit velocimeter. PMID- 2529418 TI - Hypophagia after long-term administration of sulpiride in adult female rats: a model of D2 dopamine receptors supersensitivity? AB - Sulpiride (20 mg/kg/ip for 21 days) induced in female rats a significant body weight increase and hyperphagia. After drug withdrawal a significant hypophagia was observed. It is hypothesised that this hypophagia might be a spontaneous manifestation of D2 dopamine receptors supersensitivity, either in the perifornical region of the lateral hypothalamus or in the pituitary. PMID- 2529420 TI - [Contact allergies caused by bufexamac]. AB - Between 1983 and 1987, there were 24 cases of contact allergy due to bufexamac seen at the Dermatological Hospital of the University of Gottingen. Of these patients, 20 were female und four male. It was noticeable, that the course of disease was particularly protracted and refractory: 16 of 22 patients were hospitalized with an average duration of inpatient treatment of 2.9 weeks. Seven patients had a generalized allergic contact dermatitis. Five patients had used topical preparations containing bufexamac for only one week or less. In 15 of 24 patients, further epidermal sensitization could be found. In all forms of eczematous diseases, especially in patients with chronic eczema, contact allergy to bufexamac should be considered, even if bufexamac preparations were used for only a short time. PMID- 2529419 TI - Early experiences with laser-assisted thermal angioplasty for peripheral vascular disease. AB - Laser-assisted angioplasty has been used on 47 occasions in 45 patients for the management of atherosclerosis of the superficial femoral and proximal popliteal arteries. Twenty-four procedures were performed to treat disabling intermittent claudication and 23 procedures were performed for a "threatened limb" (rest pain, ischaemic ulceration or digital gangrene). Technical success was achieved in 40 (85%) cases; the mean length of occluded segment was 7.7 cm. The presence of heavily calcified occlusions contributed significantly (P less than 0.001) to technical failure. In 28 (70%) of the successfully treated cases, the recanalized arteries were patent at one month and in 21 (53%) cases they have remained patent during the follow-up period. In five of nine cases with a nine-month follow-up, the arteries still were patent. The mean length of the occluded segments that were treated initially was 7.1 cm in those that remained patent compared with 8.2 cm in those that reoccluded. Thirty-six (77%) patients were discharged from hospital on the day after the procedure. Laser-assisted angioplasty is a promising new technique that is applied best to short-segment, non-calcified occlusions and should reduce the requirement for femoropopliteal arterial bypass surgery. PMID- 2529421 TI - [Water absorption and resistance to wear of 2 newly invented composite resins]. AB - Two recently built composites, one for posterior teeth, and the other for general employ, were evaluated in relation to their water absorption and resistance to wear by means of the "scratch test". Critical loads and attrition of the two materials were also evaluated, with statistical analysis. The results supported the good qualities of the two composites, which are to be considered very advanced in the field of esthetic reconstruction materials. PMID- 2529422 TI - [Perioperative adjuvant chemotherapy in the treatment of lymph node metastases of colorectal cancer]. AB - This study was undertaken to evaluate the effectiveness of perioperative adjuvant chemotherapy for the treatment and prevention of lymph node metastasis of colorectal cancer. Namely, ten thousand unit (U) of NCS, the high molecular weight anti-tumor agent, was injected into the subserosa of the colon (n = 51), the tumor-feeding arteries (n = 6), or the peripheral veins (n = 6) immediately after laparotomy, and tissue concentration of NCS in the regional lymph nodes and intestinal wall was measured. After the injection of NCS into the subserosa, the regional lymph nodes showed higher concentration of 4.55-6.34U/g regardless of metastasis. Concentrations in the lymph nodes after NCS into the tumor-feeding arteries showed similar high level as those after the subserosal injection in Group 1 lymph nodes (paracolic and epicolic nodes), but not in Group 2 lymph nodes (intermediate nodes). The injection of NCS into the peripheral veins demonstrated a wide range of 0.01-5.0U/g, half of them being not effective concentrations. Perioperative injection of NCS into the subserosa in the colorectal cancer was technically simple and safe and a large amount of the agent was taken into the regional lymph nodes. Therefore, this strategy may be a rational treatment for slight or jumping metastases in the lymph nodes. PMID- 2529423 TI - [Influence of endocrine therapy on the proliferation of estrogen (ER) positive cells and ER negative cells of human breast cancer (MCF-7)]. AB - The influence of endocrine therapy on the proliferation of estrogen receptor (ER) positive cells and ER negative cells of human breast cancer (MCF-7) serially transplanted into nude mice was analyzed by tumor growth, dextran-coated charcoal (DCC) method, ER-immunocytochemical assay (ER-ICA) and ER-immunocytochemically stained 3H-thymidine autoradiography. In the tamoxifen (TAM) group and the medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) group, tumor growth was inhibited, but it was promoted in the 17 beta-estradiol dipropionate (E2) group. The ER level by the DCC method significantly decreased in the TMA, the MPA and the E2 groups. The ER ICA showed that the ER positive cells rate in the TAM and the MPA group decreased, but it increased in E2 group. However, the ER-immunocytochemically stained 3H-thymidine autoradiography showed that not only the labelling index of ER-positive cells but also that of ER negative cells significantly decreased in the TAM and the MPA groups, but significantly increased in the E2 groups. Therefore it was concluded that endocrine therapy affected the proliferation of both ER positive cells and ER negative cells of ER positive breast cancer. PMID- 2529424 TI - [A new transluminal angioplasty for the treatment of arteriosclerosis obliterans]. AB - A Peripheral Simpson Atherectomy Catheter (PSAC), which permits transluminal excision and removal of diseased intima, has been tested experimentally and clinically. The device consists of a tubular housing and a cutting mechanism to excise the intima protruding into the housing. Experimentally, vascular clay model was used to estimate its efficacy. Multiple passages improved lumen size and inner smoothness, and there was some difficulty to treat curved models. Clinically, 9 lesions in 7 patients of iliofemoral atheromatous disease were treated with PSAC. Recanalization was achieved successfully except for two lesions, one a soft atheroma and the other a curved vessel. No angiographic dissections or acute arterial occlusions occurred. Despite the procedure was complicated, it seemed safe and effective. In order to improve this method, an angioplastic catheter which had a laser probe in its housing was newly designed. Nd-YAG laser was irradiated with this catheter to the atherosclerotic lesions which were induced by a high cholesterol diet in rabbit. It left smoother surface and less thermal injury than usual irradiation with contact laser probe, but it needed more energy. These results showed that PSAC can be an alternative transluminal angioplasty and the new designed laser catheter is useful, but more experiments are required to establish these procedures. PMID- 2529425 TI - U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particle-specific proteins interact with the first and second stem-loops of U1 RNA, with the A protein binding directly to the RNA independently of the 70K and Sm proteins. AB - The U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particle (U1 snRNP), a cofactor in pre mRNA splicing, contains three proteins, termed 70K, A, and C, that are not present in the other spliceosome-associated snRNPs. We studied the binding of the A and C proteins to U1 RNA, using a U1 snRNP reconstitution system and an antibody-induced nuclease protection technique. Antibodies that reacted with the A and C proteins induced nuclease protection of the first two stem-loops of U1 RNA in reconstituted U1 snRNP. Detailed analysis of the antibody-induced nuclease protection patterns indicated the existence of relatively long-range protein protein interactions in the U1 snRNP, with the 5' end of U1 RNA and its associated specific proteins interacting with proteins bound to the Sm domain near the 3' end. UV cross-linking experiments in conjunction with an A-protein specific antibody demonstrated that the A protein bound directly to the U1 RNA rather than assembling in the U1 snRNP exclusively via protein-protein interactions. This conclusion was supported by additional experiments revealing that the A protein could bind to U1 RNA in the absence of bound 70K and Sm core proteins. PMID- 2529427 TI - Histochemical reactions of myocardial proteases during open heart surgery. AB - Histochemical analysis of some lysosomal and sarcoplasmic proteolytic enzymes was assayed in human myocardial biopsies taken from 26 cardiopathic patients subjected to open heart operations, under extracorporeal circulation and protection with cardioplegic solution and hypothermia. The investigated myocardial proteases were: cathepsin B, cysteine aminopeptidase, acid gelatinases, trypsin-like endopeptidase, chymotrypsin-like endopeptidase and neutral gelatinases. The effects of surgical interventions appreciated by comparing the myocardium fragments harvested before, and at various intervals after aorta clamping (6-90 minutes) revealed disorders in the activity and compartmentalization of all the investigated proteases, whose histochemical reactions increased between 10 and 20 minutes after aorta clamping and manifested a lowering tendency with sarcoplasmic diffusion and extracellular release at longer periods than 20 minutes. The early activation of the neutral proteases and their sarcolemmal expression even before 10 minutes after aorta clamping, suggested the involvement of the nonlysosomal proteases in the first proteolytic events implied in the molecular membrane damage of the myocardial fibre. Sequential proteolytic cascades of abnormal neutral and acid proteases were emphasized as possible mediators and effectors of molecular and subcellular damages suffered by the myocardial fibers during the open heart operations, even under cardioplegic and hypothermic protection. PMID- 2529426 TI - Stabilization of the p53 transformation-related protein in mouse fibrosarcoma cell lines: effects of protein sequence and intracellular environment. AB - The transformation-related protein p53 is normally very labile. The stability of p53 is significantly increased in a number of fibrosarcoma cell lines derived from mouse tumors induced by treatment with physical or chemical agents. In many instances, p53 stabilization is correlated with the ability to form a stable complex with the heat shock protein cognate hsc70. We describe a line in which p53 is very stable yet has no detectable interaction with hsc70. The inability to form such a complex probably resides in the primary structure of the endogenous p53, since introduction of other p53 variants into those cells resulted in the appearance of a p53-hsc70 complex. The factors affecting p53 stability were investigated by stable transfection experiments. The results indicated that the primary structure of the p53 protein is a major determinant of its turnover rate; different p53 variants were degraded at distinct and characteristic rates in a number of transformed cell types. However, at least one p53 variant was degraded differently in nontransformed BALB/c-3T3 than in transformed fibrosarcoma cells, demonstrating that the specific cellular environment can also affect the stability of p53. PMID- 2529428 TI - [The potentials and limits of cytology for the diagnosis of inflammatory and tumor lesions of the liver]. PMID- 2529429 TI - Bone marrow biopsy (BMB). II. Bone marrow biopsy in myeloproliferative disorders. AB - The myeloproliferative disorders (MPD) are a domain in which the bone marrow biopsy (BMB) greatly proved its utility. We have studied the histology of the bone marrow (BM) in all the four entities of MPD: chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) with its subtype, chronic megakaryocytic granulocytic myelosis (CMGM), polycythemia vera (PV), hemorrhagic thrombocythemia (HT) and myeloid metaplasia with myelofibrosis (MMM). The work presents in short some of the clinical and hematologic characters of MPD with special stress upon the histologic modifications of BM, either specific or common to all MPD entities, underlying also the criteria for differential diagnosis. PMID- 2529430 TI - In vitro interrelations between axillary lymph nodes and breast carcinomas from patients immunostimulated before surgery. AB - When stage I and II mammary carcinomas and their homolateral axillary lymph nodes were grown in the same organ culture, a phenomenon of lymphocyte migration from the nodal explants to the tumoral explants in 34% of the cases was observed. This was followed by lymphocytic infiltration in and around tumor nodules and tumoral cytotoxic effects, concomitantly with lymphocytic depletion in the nodal explants. Lymphocyte migration was particularly apparent when the axillary lymph nodes showed hyperplasia of the paracortical area and/or sinus histiocytosis. No correlation was found between the lymphocyte migration and the histologic type of disease or the degree of malignancy, but a strong correlation was observed between the lymphocyte migration and 1) the presence or absence of metastases in the explanted lymph nodes and 2) the extent of the metastatic involvement in vivo. If before surgery the patients were pretreated with a polymicrobial suspension (polidin), this immunostimulant induced a strong stimulation of the lymphocyte migration and infiltration which appeared in 92% of the cases, independently of the metastatic involvement in vivo and the presence of metastases in the nodal explants. PMID- 2529431 TI - The development of lymphatic follicles in the omentum after intraperitoneal stimulation of rats. AB - China ink and typhoid vaccine were used as peritoneal stimuli injected in single doses. The subsequent omental reaction was studied after several time intervals: 6 and 12 hours, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 8 days, 3 and 6 weeks. The omental reaction featured as lymphatic nodules connected to milky spots was compared with a primary immune response. The ultrastructure and development of the characteristic cells (lymphocytes, lymphoblasts, dendritic reticulum cells, tingible body macrophages and plasma cells) was investigated throughout the period from 6 h to 6 weeks. A special attention was devoted to ultrastructural and functional features of plasma cells. PMID- 2529433 TI - Ultrastructural differentiation of the glomerular mesangium from the human metanephros. AB - In section of metanephros tissue obtained from 32 human embryos and fetuses, 8 to 24 weeks old, the mesangial cells differentiate beginning with the 12th week. Some of the cells from the central mass of the metanephros blastema showed endocytosis phenomena characteristic for the adult mesangial cells. In the 13th week the three cellular types from the renal corpuscle individualize, and from the 14th to the 16th week they acquired the adult morphological aspect. PMID- 2529432 TI - Structural characteristics and functional significance of the buccal fat pad (corpus adiposum buccae). AB - Corpus adiposum buccae (c.a.b.) was studied on 42 human subjects (fetuses and adults) using microdissection under magnifying glass after injection of the great vessels of the head with plastics, transparency technique of Spalteholtz and current histological methods. In fetuses, c.a.b. appeared as a well-developed mass located between Buccinator and inferior border of the Masseter. In adults, it emanated three prolongations among which the anteriorly directed molar prolongation was more conspicuous in edentulous old people. Externally, it was covered by a fine conjunctival wrap, which sent septa dividing the buccal fat pad in a series of minute fibroadipous compartments. C.a.b. contained a rich vascular network deriving from the branches of the facial and maxillary arteries. In this vascular net a more developed artery emanated branches to the prolongations of the c.a.b. The veins were tributaries of the pterygoid venous plexus. Beside the vessels, c.a.b. contained also lymphatics and myelinated nerves. The authors postulated that c.a.b. assumed the following functions: a) It filled up the masseter-zygomaticus-buccinator space forming an amortizing and a slipping platform for the masticatory muscles in action; b) in the baby, it resisted to the negative pressure which acted into the buccal cavity during sucking; c) its rich venous net, provided with valve-like structures, may be implicated in the exo-endocranial blood flow by means of the pterygoid plexus. PMID- 2529434 TI - The pathological process. II(III). Lesional sequentiality and its multifactorial determining: structure and dynamics of factor ensembles. AB - The dynamic and structural analysis of pathological processes points out their multifactorial determining, the importance of the intrinsic conditioning, the existence of a lesional sequentiality, exemplified by the chain of lesional sequences, morphologically different, the intersequential relations of cohesive and propelling type, and the discontinuity in the progress from one lesional sequence to another. Factor ensembles, ensuring and governing the start of the process and the transition from a lesional sequence to another, were analysed in point of structure, composition, role of substrates, dynamics of ensembles, roles played by ensemble components (cohesive, propelling role). PMID- 2529435 TI - The significance of the lung biopsy in congenital cardiovascular malformations. AB - The microscopic changes of pulmonary arteries in 18 patients with congenital cardiovascular malformations were studied on lung biopsies and appreciated by the Heath-Edwards' scale. A correlation between the nature of the malformation and the patient's age on the one hand, and the severity of arterial lesions on the other hand, was observed, suggesting the utility of the lung biopsy for a better prognosis of the surgical corrective intervention. The role of inflammatory factors in the genesis of arterial changes leading to hypertension is also discussed. PMID- 2529436 TI - Peripartum cardiomyopathy. A role for cardiac stress determinants other than pregnancy? AB - Peripartum cardiomyopathy is a syndrome of undetermined etiology whose most common initial symptoms are those of congestive heart failure. The syndrome carries a five-year mortality estimated at 40%. Single noxious factors, such as viral infection, have been proposed as direct precipitants of this syndrome, but none have been conclusively linked to it. The cases of two patients with identifiable cardiac stress factors who developed peripartum cardiomyopathy are presented here: one with sepsis complicated by disseminated intravascular coagulopathy and severe anemia, and a second with an otherwise normal pregnancy who engaged in strenuous aerobic exercise throughout the last trimester. A review of previously published cases reveals the frequent association of multiple nonspecific cardiac stress factors that may predispose women to peripartum cardiomyopathy. Various cardiac stress factors may act synergistically with the stress of pregnancy to precipitate peripartum cardiomyopathy in susceptible women. PMID- 2529437 TI - Molecular and classical genetic analyses of his-3 mutants of Neurospora crassa. I. Tests for allelic complementation and specific revertibility. AB - A collection of 81 his-3 mutants of Neurospora crassa was analyzed in assays for allelic complementation and specific revertibility. In these studies, the linearity of the complementation map of the his-3 cistron (Webber, 1965) was confirmed and mutants were classified as complementing with non-polarized or polarized complementation patterns, or non-complementing. In the assays for spontaneous or induced revertibility, 89% (71/80) of the mutants reverted either spontaneously or after treatment with the chemical mutagens N-methyl-N'-nitro-N nitrosoguanidine, ethyl methanesulfonate, 2-methoxy-6-chloro-9-(3-[ethyl-2 chloroethyl]aminopropylamino) acridine dihydrochloride, nitrous acid or hydroxylamine. The frequency of revertible mutants among the non-polarized complementing mutants was 96% (45/47), and 79% (15/19) for the polarized complementing and 79% (11/14) for the non-complementing mutants. The results of these classical genetic assays for allelic complementation and specific revertibility suggest a correlation between complementation pattern and presumptive genetic alterations at the molecular level among his-3 mutants similar to that found with ad-3B mutants induced by nitrous acid (Malling and de Serres, 1967), ethyl methanesulfonate (Malling and de Serres, 1968), or ultraviolet (Kilbey et al., 1971). PMID- 2529438 TI - X-ray-induced specific-locus mutations in the ad-3 region of two-component heterokaryons of Neurospora crassa. IV. Irreparable mutants of genotype ad-3A and ad-3B result from multilocus deletion and an unexpectedly high frequency of multiple-locus mutations. AB - The induction of specific-locus mutations in the ad-3 region of Neurospora crassa after X-irradiation was studied in a two-component heterokaryon to determine: (1) the ratio of reparable ad-3 mutants (presumed gene/point mutations, designated ad 3R) to irreparable ad-3 mutants (presumed multilocus deletions, designated ad 3IR), and (2) the induction kinetics of each class (Webber and de Serres, 1965). More extensive genetic tests made subsequently (de Serres, 1989a) on the 832 X ray-induced specific-locus mutations recovered in those experiments showed that unexpected high frequencies of reparable and irreparable ad-3 mutants are actually multiple-locus mutants that have additional, but separate, sites of recessive lethal (RLCL) damage in the immediately adjacent genetic regions (designated ad-3R + RLCL or ad-3IR + RLCL). The frequencies of these X-ray induced multiple-locus mutants in the ad-3 region are orders of magnitude higher than expected on the basis of target theory (where the frequency of the double mutant is expected to be the product of the frequencies of each single mutant) and classical models of chromosome structure during interphase (de Serres, 1989a). In the present paper, a random sample of 832 X-ray-induced ad-3 mutants of genotype ad-3A or ad-3B that are irreparable have been subjected to more extensive genetic fine-structure analysis. These experiments were designed to determine the extent of the functional inactivation in individual mutants in the ad-3 and immediately adjacent genetic regions in mutants classified as presumptive multilocus deletions or multiple-locus mutations. These experiments have shown that in Neurospora crassa most X-ray-induced irreparable mutants of genotype ad-3A or ad-3B map as a series of overlapping multilocus deletions. Among the 29 irreparable mutants of genotype ad-3A, there are 16 different subgroups of complementation patterns; and among the 63 irreparable mutants of genotype ad-3B, there are also 16 different subgroups. In addition, mutants classified as presumptive multiple-locus mutants result from a variety of separate, but closely linked, sites of genetic damage.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2529439 TI - Erythema nodosum after Recombivax HB hepatitis B vaccine. PMID- 2529440 TI - Toward universal vaccination against hepatitis B virus. PMID- 2529441 TI - When is disease an 'accident'? PMID- 2529442 TI - A macrophage Fc gamma receptor and the mast cell receptor for IgE share an identical subunit. AB - Fc receptors for immunoglobulins are found on many immune cells and trigger essential functions of the immune defence system. With the exception of the high affinity receptor for immunoglobulin E (Fc epsilon RI), these receptors were thought to consist of single polypeptides. Fc epsilon RI is a tetrameric complex of one alpha-subunit, one beta-subunit and two gamma-subunits. Here we report the cloning of a polypeptide identical to the gamma-chains of Fc epsilon RI, from mouse macrophages that do not express this receptor. Biosynthetic labelling and gene transfer together show that these gamma-chains associate with one of the macrophage receptors (Fc gamma RIIa). The human homologue, Fc gamma RIII (CD16), from natural killer cells is also expected to associate with gamma-chains. It is possible that these gamma-chains and the homologous zeta-chains of the T-cell antigen receptor belong to a new family of related proteins which share a common role in the signal transducing pathway. PMID- 2529444 TI - [Epidemiologic study of the to-be-expected numbers of older patients with Down syndrome in the years 1990-2015]. PMID- 2529443 TI - Light-dark differences in [3H]-paroxetine binding to rabbit platelet membranes. AB - [3H]-Paroxetine binding to rabbit blood platelet membranes from samples obtained under light and dark conditions was examined. Animals were kept on a 14 h light (L) - 10 h dark (D) schedule and blood samples were collected at L + 7 and D + 5 h. Significant differences were found for Bmax values of [3H]-paroxetine binding, with low Bmax values during the light period and high Bmax values during the dark period. The Kd values were not significantly different. These results confirm previous observations on light-dark differences of [3H]-imipramine binding in rabbit blood platelets suggesting the existence of a circadian rhythm for the 5 HT transporter complex. PMID- 2529445 TI - [Epoxy resin as a cause of contact allergic eczema]. AB - Epoxy resin-containing products of the plastic industry are increasingly employed. We retrospectively studied the incidence and course of epoxy resin contact dermatitis in 2265 patients in whom contact dermatitis was confirmed by patch testing. A positive patch test for epoxy resin was present in 31 patients (1.4%). Exposure to epoxy resin as the cause of contact dermatitis was 'certain' in 10, 'very likely' in 9, 'possible' in 4 and 'unclear' in 8 patients. Exposure to epoxy resin was related to occupational (55%) and leisure time activities (13%). In 48% patch tests were positive for multiple test allergens. Hands (56%), arms (38%) and face (38%) were mainly affected. Re-examination of 26 of 31 patients showed that a favourable course depended on identification of the cause of the exposure to epoxy resin, avoidance of further contact and absence of sensitization to multiple allergens. PMID- 2529446 TI - [Percutaneous recanalization of occluded upper leg arteries using laser treatment]. AB - Percutaneous transluminal laser recanalization was attempted in 21 patients with occluded superficial femoral arteries and 'life style limiting claudication'. Primary success was achieved in 20 (95%) of these total occlusions. In 7/21 no laser energy was required. At one month only 1 patient had claudication and the mean Doppler ankle/arm systolic pressure ratio had increased by 0.36 +/- 0.19 (p less than 0.001) at rest and 0.47 +/- 0.34 (p less than 0.001) after exercise. Complications directly attributable to the procedure were: perforation (1), peripheral embolic episodes (2), haematoma (1), transient vasospasm (2). All complications could be treated non-surgically. These preliminary data suggest that laser recanalization of relatively short occlusions of the superficial femoral artery, followed by balloon dilatation, may be accomplished with satisfactory acute and short-term results, but not without risk. PMID- 2529447 TI - [Results of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty in renal artery stenosis in 1978-1986]. PMID- 2529448 TI - [Prevention of carrier state of hepatitis B virus in newborn infants; current viewpoints and policy in The Netherlands]. PMID- 2529449 TI - Increased plasma levels of human atrial natriuretic factor in patients treated with acetate or bicarbonate hemodialysis. PMID- 2529450 TI - [ANF (atrial natriuretic factor): a new hormone of cardiac origin (II)]. PMID- 2529451 TI - Neurogenesis of the basal forebrain in euploid and trisomy 16 mice: an animal model for developmental disorders in Down syndrome. AB - The neurogenesis and early histochemical differentiation of the basal forebrain in trisomy 16 fetal mice and their euploid littermates were examined by combining [3H]thymidine autoradiography with acetylcholinesterase histochemistry. Neurons of the basal forebrain were being born between embryonic day 11 and 15 in both chromosomally normal (euploid) and aneuploid mice. In euploid littermate controls, neurogenesis proceeded along a caudal to rostral gradient with the peak on embryonic day 11 for caudal portions and embryonic day 13 for rostral portions of the basal forebrain. In contrast, in trisomy 16 mice, rostral sections exhibited a peak of neurogenesis on embryonic day 11, 2 days earlier than in their euploid littermate controls. Hypocellularity of the basal forebrain region was noted in trisomy 16 mice; particularly dramatic was the reduction of the population of cells that expressed acetylcholinesterase. This reduction in cell number in the trisomics was not accompanied by a reduction in cell size or by a dramatic change in the distribution of residual neurons when compared to that of euploid littermate controls. Since trisomy 16 mice do not survive the perinatal period, we examined the pattern of acetylcholinesterase expression in normal C57B1/6J mice from embryonic day 16 to postnatal day 5 to determine the postnatal disposition of these neurons. Already at embryonic day 16, fibers staining for acetylcholinesterase penetrated the striatal anlage, in their course towards targets in the cerebral cortices. By postnatal day 5, the previously expansive distribution of basal forebrain neurons had become consolidated in a more ventral and rostral position by the extensive outgrowth of the striatal neurons, a pattern resembling that seen in adult animals. PMID- 2529452 TI - Phenotypic variation in 2 Huntington's disease families with linkage to chromosome 4. AB - Variability of expression of the Huntington's disease (HD) gene is illustrated in 2 families with linkage of DNA restriction fragment length polymorphism to the short arm of chromosome 4. In 1 family, affected persons from 3 generations show 50-year variation of onset age. The member with the latest onset age (67) died at 91 with autopsy-confirmed HD. The next generation had hypotonic chorea beginning in the 4th decade with death in the 5th. In the 3rd generation, a rigid patient, inheriting the illness from an affected father, had a much earlier onset at 16, while her siblings had chorea beginning in the 3rd decade. In the 2nd family, several members had cerebellar signs, chorea, and dementia. MRI and CT revealed olivoponto-cerebellar and striatal atrophy. These phenotypes may be the result of different allelic genes at the HD locus or unlinked autosomal modifying loci influencing the expression of the HD gene. PMID- 2529453 TI - Serial quantitative CT analysis of brain morphometrics in adult Down's syndrome at different ages. AB - Quantitative CT demonstrated increased CSF and 3rd ventricular volumes, and decreased gray matter and white matter volume, in older (greater than 45 years) Down's syndrome (DS) adults with dementia as compared with younger DS adults. Serial CT studies repeated after periods of up to 2 years demonstrated significant progressive cerebral atrophy. Older DS adults without dementia, but with cognitive decline, did not show cerebral atrophy as compared with young DS subjects. These results suggest brain atrophy must be present to accompany dementia in older DS subjects, despite the presence of Alzheimer's disease neuropathology in all older subjects. The Alzheimer's disease process in DS may occur in 2 stages, the 1st with neuropathology and cognitive decline, the 2nd with additional cerebral atrophy and dementia. PMID- 2529454 TI - Aging and brain weight in Down's syndrome. PMID- 2529455 TI - Specific binding of angiotensin II and atrial natriuretic factor in non nephropathic type I diabetes mellitus. AB - We examined ten patients with type I diabetes mellitus and ten age- and sex matched healthy controls. Median duration of diabetes was 7 years (range 0.5-24). None of the diabetic patients had hypertension, microalbuminuria, or proliferative retinopathy. Maximal specific binding capacity for angiotensin II to thrombocytes was significantly increased in diabetics (Bmax 11.9 +/- 1.6 sites per cell vs 7.0 +/- 0.9 in controls; P less than 0.01). In contrast, maximal binding for atrial natriuretic factor tended to be lower in type I diabetics (8.84 +/- 1.25 sites per cell vs 16.8 +/- 2.97; P less than 0.07). There was no difference of apparent dissociation constant (KD) for either receptor. Angiotensin II values (RIA) were greater in diabetics (16.2 +/- 1.5 pg/ml vs 8.5 +/- 1.4 in controls; P less than 0.02) and concentrations of atrial natriuretic factor (RIA) were not significantly different. The data suggest increased angiotensin II binding despite high angiotensin II concentrations in non nephropathic type I diabetic patients. These findings may be relevant when considering the evolution of hypertension and microangiopathy lesions. PMID- 2529456 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide: haemodialysis and haemofiltration. PMID- 2529457 TI - Malignant lymphoma presenting with severe hypercalcemia. PMID- 2529458 TI - Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus: an increasing threat in New Zealand hospitals. AB - During the three years 1985 to 1987 an increasing number of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains were identified in New Zealand each year. A total of 66 strains of MRSA were identified among isolates received from 418 patients and health personnel. The majority (337/418, 80.6%) of the isolates were from two independent large outbreaks of MRSA. All strains of MRSA were sensitive to vancomycin, rifampicin and fusidic acid. An overseas origin, usually Australia, was identified for 48.4% of strains. The majority of isolates were from patients whose host defences had been breached. Postoperative and cutaneous wounds were the commonest sites of acquisition. PMID- 2529459 TI - Ipratropium and the eye. PMID- 2529460 TI - Occupational osteoarthritis--landmark ACC decision. PMID- 2529461 TI - The current role of sonography in the detection of Down syndrome. AB - The biparietal diameter (BPD)/femur length ratio, nuchal skin thickening, and measured-to-expected femur length ratio have been suggested as sonographic predictors of Down syndrome. In an effort to validate these parameters, we compared their individual and combined prevalence in 22 fetuses with Down syndrome. Using our normative data, the sensitivity and specificity of the BPD/femur length ratio were 36.4 and 93.4%, respectively. Assuming an incidence of Down syndrome in the general population of one in 1000, the estimated positive predictive value was 0.6%. When the BPD/femur length ratio, nuchal skin thickening, and measured-to-expected femur length ratio were combined, the sensitivity was improved (36.4 versus 45.5%) without significantly altering the specificity (93.4% versus 92.3%). A large prospective study is required to verify the utility of sonographic predictors of Down syndrome before their application can be recommended. PMID- 2529462 TI - Sonographic measurements and ratios in fetuses with Down syndrome. PMID- 2529464 TI - [Family cases of domestic traumatism]. PMID- 2529463 TI - [The biological activity of chalone-like proteoglycans isolated from the spleen and thymus at various periods of ontogeny]. AB - Chalone-like proteoglycans from sheep and bovine thymus and spleen were shown to suppress cell proliferation in murine thymus or spleen. Their effect appeared to be organ-specific but not species-specific. Administration of the proteoglycans resulted in a decrease in the mitotic activity of thymus and spleen cells 24h (strain C57BL), three days (hybrids), four days (nude mice) or five days (highly cancerous strain C3H/He and white mongrel mice) after birth. These changes are probably due to genetic peculiarities of immune system formation in different mouse strains. The activity of chalone-like proteoglycans from spleen and thymus of 1-, 3- and 6-months old sheep was lower than that of adult sheep (two and five years old) indicating that the proteoglycan activity increases during ontogenesis. PMID- 2529465 TI - [Distribution of the causes of congenital thrombophilia]. AB - In recent years there have been discovered more and more such connatal mostly hereditary coagulopathies, which can explain the thrombosis susceptibility of the given individual or/and the family. The International Thrombosis and Haemostasis Society made a survey to estimate the frequency of those defects causing thrombophilias. In this survey the authors analysed the cases of their patients according to the given points of view. In their work they discuss some theoretical and practical problems of the theme, which can have an importance in respect to the everyday medical practice. PMID- 2529466 TI - The repression of the growth factor-inducible genes JE, c-myc and stromelysin by adenovirus E1A is mediated by conserved region 1. AB - The growth factor-inducible cellular genes JE, c-myc and stromelysin (sml) are strongly repressed upon transformation by adenovirus E1A. As E1A proteins are multifunctional and apparently contain distinct domains (conserved regions 1, 2 and 3), each with a specific effect on gene regulation and cell-transformation, we have investigated which of the three conserved regions are responsible for the reduced expression of these genes. To this end, we monitored the expression of the JE, sml and c-myc genes in a panel of normal rat kidney (NRK) cells expressing different mutant E1A genes. Only CR1, and not CR2 or CR3 were found to be essential for the repression of the genes, indicating that CR1, one of the regions essential for cell transformation, represents an autonomous gene regulatory function that can operate in the absence of CR2. We also show that the association of E1A proteins to a 300 kD cellular protein in NRK cells coincides with the ability to repress these genes. PMID- 2529467 TI - An endogenous inhibitor of the protein tyrosine kinase activity of normal and malignant human lymphoid cells. AB - Tyrosine protein kinases (TPKs) have been implicated in mitotic signalling in a wide range of cells including lymphocytes. We describe here the partial characterization of a heat stable TPK inhibitor from both normal and malignant human lymphoid cells. Inhibitory activity was not attributable to contaminating ATPase, protease or phosphatase activities or to the Ca2+-binding protein S100. Preparations of the TPK inhibitor did not reduce the activity of cAMP-dependent protein kinase. While the inhibitor decreased the activity of TPKs towards an exogenous peptide substrate, it did not affect the autophosphorylation of microsomal TPKs. These results raise the possibility that the activity of TPKs in lymphoid cells may be regulated by an inhibitor protein. PMID- 2529468 TI - [In vitro effects of combinations of teicoplanin and ceftriaxone against Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus]. AB - The in vitro activity of antibiotic combinations of teicoplanin (T) and ceftriaxone (C) was evaluated on 10 methicillin sensitive S. aureus (MSSA), 10 methicillin resistant S. aureus (MRSA), 4 Enterococcus and 2 E. coli. By the checkerboard method the combination T + C showed synergism against 9 MRSA, 2 MSSA, 4 Enterococcus, indifferent effect against the other strains. By the time kill-curves method synergism was found for the combinations T + C at 1/2 CMI against MRSA, MSSA and Enterococcus, and indifference with the combinations at 1 X CMI, 2 X CMI, 4 X CMI against all the strains. Antagonistic effect was never found. These results suggest that teicoplanin in combination with ceftriaxone can be tested in in vivo study to demonstrate the possible benefits of the synergism particularly in the therapy of the nosocomial infections. PMID- 2529469 TI - [DNA synthesis in heart cells in its compensatory hyperfunction]. AB - In modelling compensatory hyperfunction of the heart (CHH) due to coarctation of the aorta, the replication rate in the nuclei of myocardial cells increases in 24 hours and becomes 20 fold the control values in 48 hours. The replication rate in myocardial mitochondria in CHH reduces at the beginning of hyperfunction but increases almost two fold in 48 hours. The DNA reparation rate in the nuclei of the myocardial cells does not change in CHH. The rate of this process, however, increases significantly (by 50-74%) in cardiac cells of animals subjected to operation but without coarctation of the aorta. PMID- 2529470 TI - [Mucopolysaccharides of the gastric mucosa in rats after ethanol-induced injury]. AB - The experiment was performed in 34 Buffalo rats. After laparotomy 2 ml of 96% ethanol was injected into the stomach for 90 sec. At 15 min, 1 hour, 24 hours and 96 hours mucopolysaccharides of the mucosa of bottom parts of the stomach were analysed histochemically. A direct reaction to concentrated alcohol was massive exfoliation and disintegration of the surface epithelium or abrupt release of the mucus from the superficial epithelial cells, pits and neck leading to a formation of a thick muco-cellular layer of gel precipitating reepithelization. Apart from an increase in the amount of surface mucus significant changes in its composition were found. They included an increase in the amount of sulfo- and sialomucins affecting the level of mucous viscosity. It was also shown that AB+ mucous cells of the neck were, a good marker of proliferative zone; state of the latter affects markedly the rate of regeneration of the damaged gastric mucosa. PMID- 2529471 TI - Expiratory muscle activity in anesthetized children: effect on the single breath technique. AB - Phasic expiratory activity of the abdominal muscles occurs in adults during halothane anesthesia, but has not been demonstrated in children. If present, abdominal muscle activity would preclude the use of recently developed tests of respiratory mechanics in children during anesthesia. We therefore measured abdominal muscle activity throughout induction of anesthesia with halothane in 10 patients between 1.5 and 9.5 years of age, seven with normal respiratory function and three with chronic airway obstruction. During induction of anesthesia with halothane in N2O and oxygen, the abdominal wall electromyograph (a-EMG) was continuously recorded from surface electrodes. At the same time, the expiratory time constant (tau a) was measured using the single breath test (SBT). The patients were then paralyzed with succinyl choline, and the a-EMG signal and expiratory time constant during paralysis (tau p) were recorded. The raw a-EMG signal and its moving time average were compared with the phase of respiration and with the end-tidal fraction of halothane (Fehalo), and the effect of abdominal muscle activity on tau a was noted. Of the 10 patients, 2 had no abdominal muscle activity at any time during induction. Of the remaining 8 patients, 3 had continuous abdominal muscle activity throughout induction, including one patient with asthma. In the remaining five patients, abdominal muscle activity was present during light halothane anesthesia and disappeared at increased Fehalo. When abdominal muscle activity was present, tau a was significantly less than tau p. It is concluded that abdominal muscle activity in expiration is undetectable during deep halothane anesthesia in most children.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2529472 TI - Variation in peak expiratory flow of normal and asymptomatic asthmatic children. AB - Peak expiratory flow (PEF) variation was measured in 18 healthy children (Group I) aged 9.25 to 13.3 years (mean, 11 years) and in 17 asymptomatic asthmatic children (Group II) aged 8.75 to 14.25 years (mean, 11.9 years) receiving no bronchodilators. PEF was measured four times a day for a period of 10-14 days. There were no differences between Group I and Group II regarding age, height, weight, sex, duration of the study, and overall mean PEF values. Mean daily PEF variation amplitude (difference between the highest and the lowest daily values as a percent of the mean) was significantly higher in Group II than in Group I subjects (15.2 vs. 9.9%), and so was cosinor amplitude (9.6 vs. 5.9%). Significant circadian rhythm in PEF was detected by cosinor analysis in nine subjects of Group I and in eight subjects of Group II. Mean PEF bathyphase calculated by cosinor analysis (trough time in a 24 h scale) was similar in the two groups (0503 h, in Group I and 0434 h in Group II). The results of this study show that the amplitude of circadian variation in PEF tends to be higher in asymptomatic asthmatic children than in normal children, but there is too much overlap to use PEF monitoring to identify an individual asymptomatic asthmatic child. Therefore, diurnal variation of PEF is not suitable for diagnosing mild asthmatics. PMID- 2529473 TI - In vitro performance of the small particle aerosol generator (SPAG-2). AB - The anti-viral drug ribavirin primarily used for the treatment of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection in infants is delivered by continuous nebulization with the Small Particle Aerosol Generator (SPAG). Clinical data suggest that the SPAG is an efficient nebulizer for ribavirin; it is also being used for the delivery of other pulmonary agents. The efficiency of a nebulizer can be defined in large part by delivering a major proportion of its output with a particle size of 1 to 5 microns which is small enough to penetrate the tracheobronchial tree. We assessed both the quality and quantity of the SPAG aerosol cloud with the aid of a multistage liquid impinger, utilizing 2% ribavirin and 1% cromolyn sodium solutions. The aerosol of either solution had a mass median aerodynamic diamter (MMAD) of approximately 1.2 microns, and this seemed insensitive to solution strength and nebulization period. Of the solutions of ribavirin and cromolyn sodium 92.3% and 95.0%, respectively, by weight of delivered particles, had aerodynamic diameters less than 5 microns and about 70 75% of the aerosol particles had an aerodynamic diameter in the 1-5 microns range. This implies that the aerosol cloud is adequate for delivery through a ventilator circuit. Performance was maintained over long (16 hours), continuous periods of delivery. The SPAG could be useful for delivery of other respiratory drugs by continuous nebulization. PMID- 2529474 TI - Fibromuscular dysplasia of the renal artery in a child: detection by Doppler ultrasound and correction by percutaneous transluminal angioplasty. AB - We describe the case of a fourteen-year old girl with hypertension, in whom renal arterial stenosis was identified by Doppler ultrasound examination, with subsequent demonstration of typical features of fibromuscular dysplasia by selective renal arteriography. Percutaneous transluminal balloon angioplasty was performed, and a sustained improvement in renal arterial flow was confirmed by follow-up Doppler ultrasound examinations. PMID- 2529475 TI - Sleep-related abdominal muscle behavior during partial or complete obstructed breathing in prepubertal children. AB - We have evaluated the influence of nonrapid eye movement (NREM), REM sleep, and arousal on abdominal muscle contractions during snoring and/or obstructive apnea in 10 prepubertal children. All children were known habitual snorers and eight had a sleep apnea index above 10. During stage 3-4 non-REM sleep, non-apneic breathing with snoring was always associated with the presence of expiratory abdominal muscle electromyogram (EMG) discharges. During non-REM sleep apneas, abdominal muscle EMG discharges increased from the beginning to the end of each apnea. Termination of non-REM sleep apnea was marked by an "EEG arousal" in 12% of the apneic events and by a "movement arousal" in the other 88%. The highest abdominal muscle EMG discharge was always observed during the arousal response. During "phasic" REM sleep, abdominal muscle EMG discharges were absent during both nonapneic breathing (with or without snoring) and obstructive apneas. All REM sleep apneas ended with a "movement arousal," during which abdominal muscle EMG discharges were observed. Thus, abdominal muscle EMG discharges associated with "arousal" were seen independent of the immediately preceding sleep state. PMID- 2529476 TI - Adolescents with special health needs: prevalence, severity, and access to health services. AB - The health care needs of disabled adolescents are examined using data from a nationally representative sample of 15,181 randomly selected adolescents aged 10 to 18 years from the 1984 National Health Interview Survey. More than 6% of adolescents, or nearly 2 million nationwide, suffered some degree of disability or limitation in their usual activities in 1984. The leading causes of disability were mental disorders and respiratory diseases. Adolescents living in poverty and in households where the adult members had completed little formal education exhibited increased risk of disability. Disabled adolescents were shown to have three times as many physician contacts annually and spend nine times as many days hospitalized as their nondisabled counter-parts. One in every seven adolescents with a disability was found to be uninsured--exposing their families to extreme financial risks. The great cost of insurance was cited as the primary reason for absence of coverage for 70% of all adolescents without coverage. Public policy implications of these results are discussed. PMID- 2529477 TI - [Percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty: indication for renovascular hypertension associated with renal atrophy]. AB - The results of clinical studies indicate that percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty (PTRA) is an effective means for treating renovascular hypertension resulting from renal artery stenosis. However, the indications for the patients with renal failure or renal atrophy are not established on a firm ground. We attempted PTRAs of ten kidneys in nine patients with hypertension associated with renal atrophy. They were followed for an average of 8 months by the methods including blood pressure, angiography or DSA, blood chemistry, and RI-renogram. We also evaluated enlargement of the renal size on an angiogram or on a plain film at DSA. Angiographic follow-up showed persistent relief of the stenosis in all cases. After PTRA, blood pressure reduced to normal or improved in two thirds of the patients for the follow-up period. In the study of three patients with excellent results for blood pressure, two patients showed the renal length to be increased by 1.0 cm or more, and one patient by 0.5 cm. In the same group, RI renogram also showed good response. These data indicate that PTRA could improve total perfusion on the affected kidneys. On the other hand, in three patients with no change in blood pressure, there was poor response in both the renal size and the data of RI-renograms. We suggest that the irreversible changes might have occurred in these kidneys. It was difficult to predict cure group from no change group before PTRA. PMID- 2529478 TI - The selenocysteine-inserting opal suppressor serine tRNA from E. coli is highly unusual in structure and modification. AB - Selenocysteine is cotranslationally incorporated into selenoproteins in a unique pathway involving tRNA mediated suppression of a UGA nonsense codon (1-3). The DNA sequence of the gene for this suppressor tRNA from Escherichia coli predicts unusual features of the gene product (4). We determined the sequence of this serine tRNA (tRNA(UCASer]. It is the longest tRNA (95 nt) known to date with an acceptor stem of 8 base pairs and lacks some of the 'invariant' nucleotides found in other tRNAs. It is the first E. coli tRNA that contains the hypermodified nucleotide i6A, adjacent to the UGA-recognizing anticodon UCA. The implications of the unusual structure and modification of this tRNA on recognition by seryl tRNA synthetase, by tRNA modifying enzymes, and on codon recognition are discussed. PMID- 2529479 TI - Wheat mitochondrial DNA: organization and sequences of the atpA and atp9 genes. PMID- 2529480 TI - A cycloheximide-inducible gene of Neurospora crassa belongs to the cytochrome P 450 superfamily. PMID- 2529481 TI - Nucleotide sequence of the unc operon of Vibrio alginolyticus. PMID- 2529482 TI - Patterns of metastasis by the human prostate cancer cell line PC-3 in athymic nude mice. AB - Cells from the PC-3 human prostate cancer cell line were evaluated in athymic nude mice in order to determine the influence of size of the primary tumor and site inoculation on the incidence and pattern of metastasis. At autopsy, all organs, including the skeleton, were evaluated for metastasis. Subcutaneous injections resulted in metastases to the draining axillary lymph node and lungs (56% and 13%, respectively), and were correlated with size of the primary tumor. Tail vein injection resulted in a high incidence of lung metastasis, while injection into the peritoneal space, spleen, and seminal vesicles resulted in intraabdominal tumor growth, liver metastasis, and large tumors within the seminal vesicles, respectively. Skeletal metastases were not observed in any of the animals studied. We conclude that injection of PC-3 cells into various sites results in different patterns of metastasis, but may not constitute an entirely suitable animal model of human prostate cancer due to the lack of metastasis to the skeleton. PMID- 2529483 TI - Long-term preservation of permanent teeth in a patient with Papillon-Lefevre syndrome treated with etretinate. AB - Papillon-Lefevre syndrome (PLS) is a rare autosomal recessive genodermatosis characterized by the association of palmoplantar keratoderma with severe periodontopathy resulting in premature loss of both deciduous and permanent dentition. We treated a patient with PLS with etretinate and followed him for 10 years. Treatment was started at age 9 years, soon after the eruption of secondary dentition. Healing of cutaneous and periodontal lesions was obtained in a few months and maintained during the four years of treatment. Six years after etretinate withdrawal the teeth are still free of periodontal disease and firmly anchored to the alveolar bone. Our case confirms that retinoid therapy can positively influence the development of normal dentition in PLS when it is started during the eruption of the permanent teeth, and suggests that this result can be maintained for a long time even after stopping therapy. PMID- 2529484 TI - Persistent papular plaques on the face. PMID- 2529486 TI - Cogenital cardiovascular defects in infants with Down syndrome. PMID- 2529485 TI - Nutritional assessment of the handicapped child. PMID- 2529487 TI - A patient with Down's syndrome, mild hypothyroidism and alopecia. PMID- 2529488 TI - Running injuries. PMID- 2529489 TI - Altered glycosylation of surface glycoproteins in tumor cells and its clinical application. AB - Appearance of large Asn-linked sugar chains in the surface glycoprotein is one of the most widely found phenomena in malignant cells and is called the Warren-Glick phenomenon. Comparative study of the sugar chain structures of the surface glycoproteins of cultured cells and their malignant transformants revealed that the altered glycosylation is induced by enhancement of N-acetyl glucosaminyltransferase V. The change seems to be highly correlated with the metastatic potential of tumor cells. PMID- 2529490 TI - [Microcirculation: measurement of percutaneous oxygen partial pressure and the value of hemodilution]. PMID- 2529491 TI - [Toward a rational use of fluoride in treating common osteoporosis]. PMID- 2529492 TI - [Proliferative myositis with compression of the sciatic nerve]. AB - A case of proliferative myositis, an unusual inflammatory pseudotumour of skeletal muscle, is reported. This case was particular in that the lesion was located in the popliteal fossa, developed over a long period and above all, was revealed by compression of the sciatic nerve. The diagnosis was confirmed by peripheral biopsy of the mass which showed normal muscular tissue associated with numerous fibroblasts and with characteristic basophilic giant cells. The clinical, histological and pathogenetic features of the disease are discussed with emphasis on the importance of a thorough pathological examination to exclude with certainty a possible sarcoma. PMID- 2529493 TI - [Interstitial pneumopathies: criteria of drug side-effects. Results of consensus meetings]. AB - Since 1984, the use of the official method for determining the responsibility of drugs in side-effects has been compulsory in France. This method offers, but does not define, different qualificatives for chronological and semeiological criteria. Consensus workshops have been set up to define the undesirable side effects themselves and the different qualificatives in each of the principal fields of pathology. As regards drug-induced interstitial pneumonia, chest specialists from university hospitals, members of the national system of pharmacovigilance and representatives of the Roussel-Uclaf central department of pharmaco-vigilance have determined: the limits of time elapsed between the beginning and end of drug administration and the occurrence of the adverse reaction; how to interpret various courses of the side-effect with and without temporary discontinuation of the drug, and how to interpret a possible readministration. A list of investigations aimed at excluding the main possible causes of interstitial pneumonia has been drawn up. PMID- 2529494 TI - [Computed tomographic exploration of eventrations]. AB - With physical examination alone it is difficult or even impossible to evaluate the abdominal wall damage in patients with major evisceration, especially when they are obese. Computerized tomography (CT) is very useful in this respect as it provides a detailed anatomical overview of the lesions. CT was performed in 30 out of 229 patients operated upon. It supplied information on the size, site and extension of eviscerations and showed whether they were single or multiple; it also informed on the quality, thickness and retraction of the abdominal muscles. All this is extremely important to know before surgery as it enables the operative problems to be foreseen and, to some extent, the operative procedure to be determined. In all cases of complex evisceration CT may be regarded as the "key examination". PMID- 2529495 TI - [Ureteral compression. A little-known complication of constipation]. PMID- 2529496 TI - [The isolation of Kingella kingae by hemoculture must always suggest the diagnosis of endocarditis]. PMID- 2529497 TI - [Extinctive thyroid nodules. Use of ultrasensitive thyreostimuline in the diagnosis]. PMID- 2529499 TI - [Total surinfected prosthesis of the hip by Mycobacterium chelonei]. PMID- 2529498 TI - [Treatment of phalloid poisoning with silymarin and ceftazidime]. PMID- 2529500 TI - [The stethoscope in detecting arteriopathy by measuring systolic pressure at the ankle]. PMID- 2529501 TI - [Renal function and arterial pressure in 22 heart transplant recipients treated with cyclosporin for more than 5 years]. PMID- 2529502 TI - [Hypocalcemic hypomagnesemic coma after carboplatin]. PMID- 2529503 TI - [Should we continue to do randomized studies of ulcer patients?]. PMID- 2529504 TI - [Prevention of allergy]. PMID- 2529505 TI - [Acute kidney failure in Morocco]. AB - During the February 1983-February 1988 period, 172 patients (113 men and 59 women, mean age 36 years) were admitted to the Ibn-Rochd hospital for acute renal failure (ARF). Oliguria or anuria were present on admission in 131 patients (76.2 per cent). ARF occurred in a medical context in more than two thirds of the cases (73.8 per cent) post-operatively or in a surgical context in 11 per cent in an obstetrical context, notably post-partum, in 15 per cent. The causes of ARF were varied: prerenal in 12 cases, obstructive in 15 cases and renal parenchymal in 141 cases; in the remaining 4 patients no cause could be found. Acute tubular necrosis was the most frequent lesion (104 cases) and it was due to infection in 72 per cent of the cases; acute glomerular lesions were present in 27 patients. In the 108 patients treated by haemodialysis, 4 sessions on average were required for each patient; the main duration of peritoneal dialysis was 6 days. The most frequent complication observed was infection. The mortality rate was 21 per cent (36 deaths). PMID- 2529507 TI - [Neopterin in thyroid pathology. Preliminary results]. PMID- 2529506 TI - [Chronic bone infections after surgery. Treatment with the new quinolones]. AB - A prospective open study carried out over 5 years and including 20 patients suffering from chronic bone suppuration following orthopaedic surgery has confirmed the value of the new quinolones (NQ) in these indications. The patients received pefloxacin or ciprofloxacin most often combined with rifampicin or fusidic acid for a mean period of 7 months. Single or multiple organism infections were documented in 14 patients, the majority being Staph. aureus (n = 13) and Pseudomonas (n = 14). Samples were sterile in 6 cases. Fourteen therapeutic successes and 5 failures were observed. In one patient, improvement was noted but the post-treatment follow-up insufficient to pronounce a cure. Success was obtained in 14 out of 16 patients who had sensitive organisms or sterile samples. The mean post-treatment follow-up (16 months) was satisfactory but insufficient to speak of cure. However, in these patients for whom further surgery, however desirable, is often refused, NQ constitute an improvement which raises hopes of cure or allows further surgery. PMID- 2529508 TI - [Pleurisy revealing leishmaniasis in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome]. PMID- 2529510 TI - [Sweet's syndrome associated with essential thrombocythemia]. PMID- 2529509 TI - [Efficacy of oral etidronic acid on pain and hypocalciuria in myeloma]. PMID- 2529511 TI - [Breast cancer: chemotherapy as salvage after failure of locoregional treatment by exclusive radiotherapy]. PMID- 2529513 TI - [Acquired toxoplasmosis associated with nephrotic syndrome in an adult]. PMID- 2529512 TI - [Phenotype modification of acute leukemia in medullary relapse]. PMID- 2529514 TI - [Anasarca caused by exudative enteropathy due to digestive Kaposi's sarcoma]. PMID- 2529515 TI - [Hyperphosphoremia in Waldenstrom's disease]. PMID- 2529517 TI - [Acute respiratory distress syndrome with fatal outcome after exsanguinotransfusion in pernicious malaria attack]. PMID- 2529516 TI - [Risk factors of primary staphylococcal septicemia in adults]. PMID- 2529518 TI - [Is treatment with molar lactate in flecainide poisoning safe?]. PMID- 2529519 TI - [Arthroplasty in hemophiliacs]. PMID- 2529520 TI - [Urinary calculi. Current role of in situ dissolution]. AB - The two cases reported here illustrated the advantages of urinary stone dissolution in situ. One patient had bilateral urate calculus with anuria; the other had recurrent staghorn calculus. In both cases a nephrostomy stent was installed percutaneously and the calculi were dissolved by irrigation. PMID- 2529521 TI - [Preventive treatment of infection caused by gram-negative bacteria using anti lipopolysaccharide antibodies. Evaluation in patients with aplasia]. AB - The prophylaxis of severe Gram-negative infections with human antiserum to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was evaluated in a randomised study of 60 patients with therapeutic aplasia for leukaemia. The antiserum was found to be ineffective in preventing Gram-negative infections. The levels of anti-LPS antibodies showed that passive immunization was obtained in only one half of the patients. These disappointing results warrant further investigations to evaluate the effectiveness of this prophylactic treatment. PMID- 2529522 TI - [Increase of vertebral bone density in heavy drinkers of mineral water with a high fluoride content]. AB - The mineral density of bone (MDB) was measured by dualphoton absorptiometry in the lumbar vertebrae of 23 healthy volunteers who consumed large amounts of a mineral water with high fluoride content (8.5 mg/l). The subjects studied had ingested a minimum of 0.75 litre of this water each day for 5 years or more. None of them had a history of pain in the bones or spontaneous fracture. MDB was found to be significantly higher in these subjects than in age - and sex-matched controls, and particularly high in those who were older than 60 years. There was positive correlation (r = 0.61, p less than 0.02) between MDB and mineral water consumption index. Serum levels of osteocalcin - a marker of bone formation - and urinary fluoride levels were significantly higher in drinkers of St-Yorre water than in controls. These data suggest that prolonged consumption of this mineral water by subjects without renal impairment might protect against the risk, increasing with age, of vertebral osteoporosis. PMID- 2529523 TI - [Lung transplantation]. AB - Lung transplantation has been made possible by the advent of cyclosporin, and it can be divided into three categories: single lung, double lung and heart-lung transplantations. Heart-lung transplantation is the only one that can be performed in case of primary pulmonary arterial hypertension, but the respective indications of these three types of transplantation in patients with respiratory failure have not yet been clearly determined. Heart-lung transplantation is also the one that gives the best results in terms of survival and respiratory function. In the post-operative period, graft rejection and bacterial, viral, fungal or parasitic infections are responsible for a 35 per cent death rate. Later in life, transplant recipients are prone to respiratory impairment caused by obliterating bronchiolitis, itself due to insufficiently treated chronic rejection. The development of lung transplantation is considerably limited by the scarcity of donors with procurable lungs and by the frequency of heart procurement at the expense of the heart-lung block. PMID- 2529524 TI - [Comparative study of Pfannenstiel's incision and transverse abdominal incision in gynecologic and obstetric surgery]. AB - The ease of execution and the post-operative quality of 2 types of incision commonly performed in pelvic surgery were compared in a prospective randomised study: Pfannenstiel's incision was used in 59 patients and Mouchel's low transverse abdominal incision (LTA) in 60 patients. Results were evaluated 8 days and 3 months after the operation. There was no difference in immediate post operative results between these two groups of patients. At the 3 month examination, hypoaesthesia of the skin was less frequent in patients who had been operated upon through the LTA incision. The authors conclude that the transmuscular incision is innocuous. PMID- 2529525 TI - [Cutaneous lesions in paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria]. PMID- 2529526 TI - [Dysimmune manifestations in Horton's disease and polymyalgia rheumatica]. PMID- 2529527 TI - [Decrease in the large granular lymphocyte population (LGL) in peripheral blood during pregnancy]. PMID- 2529528 TI - [Parotitis in Horton's disease]. PMID- 2529529 TI - [Can the size of the obstetrical pelvis be predicted by the mere estimation of maternal height and or shoe size?]. PMID- 2529530 TI - [Immunocytochemistry of mixed pituitary adenoma (growth hormone and prolactin) with a double marking]. PMID- 2529531 TI - [Which superficial bladder tumors should be treated directly with intravesical chemotherapy?]. PMID- 2529532 TI - [Buerger's disease associated with Raynaud's phenomenon in women]. PMID- 2529533 TI - [Postoperative thromboembolism in the young subject. Coagulation and fibrinolysis in 24 orthopedic patients]. PMID- 2529534 TI - [A case of prolonged diarrhea caused by Cyclo 3 fort]. PMID- 2529535 TI - [Intrarectal and intravaginal echography in the evaluation of the extension and the monitoring of cancer of the anal canal]. PMID- 2529536 TI - [Anasarca during treatment with bromocriptine]. PMID- 2529537 TI - [Seronegative syphilis in AIDS]. PMID- 2529538 TI - [Characteristics of the incidence of tuberculosis in Orenburg oblast]. AB - The trend in tuberculosis morbidity and characteristics of its clinical picture in the Orenburg Region within 1980-1987 were studied. During the 7-year period, there was a decrease in the disease morbidity by 21 per cent in the Region at large and by 10 per cent in the rural areas. A decrease in the proportion of destructive and extended tuberculosis was revealed. The incidence of tuberculosis in the rural population remained high. In the cattle breeders it was 3 times higher than the average figure for the Region. The real level of cattle affection with tuberculosis by the slaughter data amounted to 26 per cent and was by 64 per cent higher than the tuberculin diagnosis data of the veterinary departments. Direct average correlation between the levels of tuberculosis incidence in the cattle and cattle breeders was shown. A high incidence of tuberculosis was stated in urban industrial workers and especially in gas industry workers. In the latter, productive forms of tuberculosis coupled with increased tuberculin sensitivity were mainly diagnosed. Despite the downward trend in the morbidity of tuberculosis in children and adolescents, their contamination remained high. Single cases of tuberculous meningitis and generalized affections were recorded. PMID- 2529539 TI - Positron emission tomography in psychiatry. AB - Positron emission tomography permits the study of human brain function. With a positron labelled tracer and a model for quantitation, regional brain metabolism and neuroreceptor characteristics can be determined with PET. Schizophrenia is the most extensively studied psychiatric disorder. Most studies have demonstrated decreased metabolic rates in wide areas of the brain. It is proposed that the metabolic changes observed in the brains of schizophrenic patients are due to a fundamental change in neuronal function. Fewer studies have been performed in other psychiatric disorders. Bipolar depressed patients probably have a decreased brain metabolism. Obsessive compulsive and panic disorders (if sensitive to lactate) have an increased brain metabolism. This is probably also the case for female anorectic patients. Alcohol dependent subjects with a long duration of abuse may have a decreased brain metabolism. Neuroreceptor studies with PET have in one study of psychotropic drug naive schizophrenic patients demonstrated an increase of D2-dopamine receptors. In another study no difference between controls and patients was found. Treatment of schizophrenic patients with conventional doses of neuroleptic drugs results in a D2 receptor occupancy of 65 to 85 per cent, suggesting that there is no need for high dose treatment in schizophrenic patients. The studies reviewed clearly demonstrate that PET is a valuable tool in psychiatric research. PMID- 2529540 TI - Loss of the MYC gene amplified in human HL-60 cells after treatment with inhibitors of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase or with dimethyl sulfoxide. AB - In HL-60 cells, a human promyelocytic leukemia cell line, the human c-myc gene, designated MYC, is amplified about 16-fold. On differentiation of the HL-60 cells into granulocytes induced by several inhibitors of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase [NAD+ poly(adenosine diphosphate D-ribose)ADP-D-ribosyltransferase, EC 2.4.2.30] including benzamide, nicotinamide, coumarin, and 4-hydroxyquinazoline or dimethyl sulfoxide, some MYC loss was observed. In contrast, benzoic acid, a noninhibitory analogue of benzamide, did not induce either granulocytic differentiation or loss of MYC. Loss of MYC seems to be associated with granulocytic differentiation because the time course of its loss was similar to that of appearance of nitroblue tetrazolium-positive cells, mature granulocytes, and its loss was not observed on differentiation of HL-60 cells into macrophages induced by phorbol 12 myristate 13-acetate or teleocidin. The loss of MYC is not the reason for the down regulation of MYC expression observed within 1 hr after addition of inducers, since the loss of MYC was not detected by 1-day treatment with inducers. PMID- 2529541 TI - Low-affinity IgE receptor (CD23) function on mouse B cells: role in IgE-dependent antigen focusing. AB - B-cell surface immunoglobulin very efficiently focuses specific protein antigens for presentation to T cells. We have demonstrated a similar role in antigen focusing for the low-affinity Fc epsilon receptor (Fc epsilon RII) on mouse B lymphocytes. B cells treated with an IgE monoclonal antibody to 2,4,6 trinitrophenyl (TNP) (IgE-B cells) were 100-fold more effective than were untreated B cells in presenting low concentrations of TNP-antigen to T cells. Blocking the binding of IgE to Fc epsilon RII on IgE-B cells with a monoclonal antibody to Fc epsilon RII completely eliminated this increased effectiveness. Preformed complexes of IgE anti-TNP and TNP-antigen were more effectively presented (approximately 100-fold) than TNP-antigen in the presence of nonspecific IgE. In contrast, complexes of IgG1 anti-TNP and TNP-antigen, capable of binding to Fc gamma receptors on B cells, were presented less effectively than TNP-antigen in the presence of nonspecific IgG1. Antigens focused by means of Fc epsilon RII or by means of B-cell surface immunoglobulin receptors were presented at comparably low concentrations. For several reasons, Fc epsilon RII on B lymphocytes seems to be particularly effective in efficiently focusing IgE antigen complexes. PMID- 2529542 TI - Molecular structure and expression of the murine lymphocyte low-affinity receptor for IgE (Fc epsilon RII). AB - The cDNA encoding the murine low-affinity receptor for IgE (Fc epsilon RII) has been isolated from a cDNA library prepared from B cells activated with lipopolysaccharide and interleukin 4. It encodes a 37-kDa protein of 331 amino acids with two potential N-linked glycosylation sites. Analogous to its human counterpart, there is no signal sequence and the putative transmembrane region is close to the amino terminus, indicating an inverse membrane orientation with the carboxyl terminus at the cell exterior. The predicted murine Fc epsilon RII amino acid sequence demonstrates a 57% identity with its human counterpart. The murine sequence has an additional internal repeat motif of 21 amino acids giving four repeats as compared to three in the human sequence. Furthermore, the murine Fc epsilon RII is truncated at the carboxyl terminus and the Arg-Gly-Asp sequence, a common recognition site of integrin receptors, which is found in the reverse configuration in human Fc epsilon RII, is missing. B cells activated with interleukin 4 and lipopolysaccharide have an increased amount of Fc epsilon RII mRNA as compared with resting or lipopolysaccharide-stimulated B cells. Con A activated normal T cells, the TH-2 cell line D10, as well as the macrophage cell line J774 have no detectable Fc epsilon RII mRNA. Expression analysis using transiently transfected COS cells revealed that recombinant murine Fc epsilon RII binds anti-Fc epsilon RII as well as mouse and rat IgE but does not bind human IgE or mouse IgG. Fc epsilon RII expressed in COS cells has a molecular mass of 45 kDa whereas the Fc epsilon RII from B-cell lines is a 49-kDa protein. PMID- 2529543 TI - Protection of atrial natriuretic factor against degradation: diuretic and natriuretic responses after in vivo inhibition of enkephalinase (EC 3.4.24.11) by acetorphan. AB - Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) might be beneficial in several cardiovascular disorders, but its poor oral absorption and rapid inactivation in vivo have so far prevented its use in therapeutics. We have assessed the role of enkephalinase (membrane metallo-endopeptidase, EC 3.4.24.11) in the in vivo inactivation of ANF in mice and healthy human volunteers by evaluating the effects of acetorphan, a potent inhibitor. In mice, the degradation of 125I-labeled ANF was markedly delayed, as shown by the levels of the intact peptide in the plasma and the kidney, a major target organ. The effect of acetorphan was due to the inhibition of enkephalinase activity, since it occurred at an ED50 very close to this drug's ID50 for the inhibition of the specific binding of radioactive material to the kidney or lung peptidase that was measured after administration of [3H]acetorphan. The effects of acetorphan were also studied in eight healthy human volunteers by using a randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled design. Oral administration of acetorphan elicited a lasting elevation of plasma ANF-like immunoreactivity, with a time course parallel to that of the inhibition of plasma enkephalinase activity. These effects were accompanied by significant increases in urinary volume and sodium excretion, two well-established renal responses to ANF peptides. These results indicate that enkephalinase plays a critical role in ANF degradation in vivo and that its inhibition enhances the levels of circulating endogenous ANF, which, in turn, results in diuresis and natriuresis. Enkephalinase inhibition may constitute another therapeutic approach to the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, such as congestive heart failure or essential hypertension, on which ANF is postulated to have a beneficial effect. PMID- 2529544 TI - Brain interleukin 1 and S-100 immunoreactivity are elevated in Down syndrome and Alzheimer disease. AB - Interleukin 1, an immune response-generated cytokine that stimulates astrocyte proliferation and reactivity (astrogliosis), was present in up to 30 times as many glial cells in tissue sections of brain from patients with Down syndrome and Alzheimer disease compared with age-matched control subjects. Most interleukin 1 immunoreactive glia in Down syndrome and Alzheimer disease were classified as microglia. The number of interleukin 1 immunoreactive neurons did not appear to differ in Down syndrome and Alzheimer disease compared with control brain. Numerous temporal lobe astrocytes in Alzheimer disease and postnatal Down syndrome were intensely interleukin 1-, S-100-, and glial fibrillary acidic protein-immunoreactive and had reactive structure. Interleukin 1 levels in Alzheimer disease temporal lobe homogenates were elevated, as were the levels of S-100 and glial fibrillary acidic protein, two proteins reportedly elevated in reactive astrocytes. These data suggest that increased expression of S-100 in Down syndrome, resulting from duplication of the gene on chromosome 21 that encodes the beta subunit of S-100, may be augmented by elevation of interleukin 1. As a corollary, the astrogliosis in Alzheimer disease may be promoted by elevation of interleukin 1. PMID- 2529545 TI - Distribution of D2 dopamine receptor mRNA in rat brain. AB - The distribution of mRNA coding for the D2 dopamine receptor was studied in the rat brain by in situ hybridization. A cDNA probe corresponding to the putative third cytosolic loop and sixth and seventh transmembrane domains of the rat D2 receptor was used to generate an 35S-labeled riboprobe to hybridize to D2 receptor mRNA. D2 mRNA was found both in dopamine projection fields and in regions associated with dopamine-containing cell bodies, suggesting both postsynaptic and presynaptic autoreceptor localization. Highest concentrations of D2 mRNA were found in neostriatum, olfactory tubercle, substantia nigra, ventral tegmental area, and the nucleus accumbens. This distribution is consistent with those reported with D2 receptor autoradiography. PMID- 2529546 TI - Thromboxane receptor blockade with SQ 30,741 improves post-ischemic myocardial function in anesthetized dogs. AB - This study was conducted to determine whether the thromboxane A2 receptor antagonist SQ 30,741 can improve post-ischemic recovery of cardiac function in anesthetized dogs. Saline or SQ 30,741 was infused throughout a 15-min coronary occlusion and 5 hr of reperfusion. Ischemic regional cardiac function was determined using subendocardial ultrasonic crystals. Despite no differences in collateral blood flow or reperfusion flow, SQ 30,741 significantly improved ventricular segmental shortening at all times measured during reperfusion. At 5 hr after the initiation of reperfusion, segmental shortening was 3 +/- 16 and 44 +/- 10% of baseline values for saline and SQ 30,741 groups, respectively. These results implicate thromboxane receptor activation in the pathogenesis of myocardial stunning, and thromboxane antagonists may be useful in mitigating this functional deficit. PMID- 2529547 TI - Reduction of myocardial damage and polymorphonuclear leukocyte accumulation following coronary artery occlusion and reperfusion by the thromboxane receptor antagonist BM 13.505. PMID- 2529548 TI - Thromboxane and prostacyclin receptors. PMID- 2529549 TI - Role of thromboxane receptor antagonists in cardiovascular disease. AB - A number of reports indicate the TX receptor antagonists may be useful in preventing coronary artery reocclusion following fibrinolytic therapy, reducing myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury and consequent neutrophil accumulation, preventing thrombocardiac sudden death, and attenuating the sequelae of endotoxic shock. Limited clinical studies have been initiated, and no adverse clinical effects can be associated with specific TX receptor blockade. Further clinical studies will be required to confirm the provocative animal studies, as well as defining the role of TX as a mediator of coronary vasospasm, respiratory disorders, and renal failure and rejection episodes. PMID- 2529550 TI - Photoaffinity labelling of the human platelet thromboxane A2/prostaglandin H2 (TXA2/PGH2) receptor. PMID- 2529551 TI - The binding of [3H]9,11-dideoxy,9 alpha-11 alpha-methanoepoxy prostaglandin F2 alpha (U 46619) to washed human platelets. PMID- 2529552 TI - Calcium blockers: antiatherogenic action by influencing the prostaglandin-system. PMID- 2529553 TI - Prostaglandins, renin and atrial natriuretic peptide in the control of the circulation and renal function in heart failure in the dog. PMID- 2529555 TI - Polyvalent TXA2/PGH2 receptor antagonists with very high affinity. PMID- 2529554 TI - Cardiovascular properties of hydroxylated docosahexaenoates. PMID- 2529556 TI - R 68 070: thromboxane A2 synthetase inhibition and thromboxane A2/prostaglandin endoperoxide receptor blockade, combined in one molecule. PMID- 2529557 TI - The use of synthetic thromboxane A2 (TXA2-S) and a new class of thromboxane antagonists, indole-2-propanoic acids to characterize the thromboxane receptor. PMID- 2529558 TI - Tetrahydrocarbazol-1-acetic acids: new class of thromboxane receptor antagonists. PMID- 2529559 TI - The metabolism of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in the eye: the possible role of docosahexaenoic acid and docosanoids in retinal physiology and ocular pathology. AB - Study of the metabolism, physiological importance, biological effects, and pathological role of omega-3-polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly DHA, remains a relatively unexplored field. The notion that DHA in membranes such as those of photoreceptors has no function but to contribute to membrane fluidity is probably an oversimplification. More specific roles are envisaged in the structure and function of retinal and synaptic membranes. One such function may be to provide EPA by retroconversion which, in turn, will be oxygenated to biologically active metabolites that may affect other eicosanoids or directly elicit or induce other functions. A better understanding of the already described alterations in membrane properties of outer segments in inherited retinal degeneration may also lead to further elucidation of the fundamental mechanisms involved in senile macular degeneration and other retinal diseases. The fact that aging enhances the oxidative stress on cells and that the visual cells are enriched in DHA may result in functional impairments; DHA peroxidation may deplete crucial phospholipids from their sites in specific membrane domains. Also, DHA peroxidation generates toxic products that can damage the shedding of photoreceptor discs or their phagocytosis by the retinal pigment epithelium. Docosanoids, oxygenated derivatives of DHA that resemble eicosanoids, may well prove to be unique mediators of physiological processes in the central nervous system, including the retina, and may play a role in some ocular pathologies. More thorough knowledge of these compounds can be expected to lead to important new insights into ocular physiology and pathophysiology, just as research on the eicosanoid system, the primary subject of this volume, has achieved. However, it is of even more immediate importance that we bear in mind the potential contribution of docosanoids to retinal physiology and pathology and to other ocular processes when considering treatment modalities or when interpreting the results of research studies that involve manipulation of the cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase pathways. The effects currently assigned to eicosanoids by virtue of their inhibition of the cyclooxygenase or lipoxygenase systems may, in part, be consequences of concomitant alterations in the production of docosanoids, especially in the eye, where the retina is an especially rich source of DHA, the endogenous precursor of this recently discovered family of metabolites. PMID- 2529560 TI - Free energy change in the elementary steps of actomyosin ATPase reaction. AB - We determined the rate constants of the elementary steps of actomyosin ATPase reaction, and calculated the effective free energy change in the elementary steps of ATPase reaction. It was shown that most of the free energy obtained by ATP hydrolysis is liberated in the step from the actomyosin-phosphate-ADP complex to actomyosin-ADP complex. PMID- 2529561 TI - The role of alkali light chains in stabilization of fast skeletal myosin subfragment 1. PMID- 2529562 TI - Suppressing effect of 2,3-butanedione monoxime on contraction and ATPase activity of rabbit skeletal muscle. PMID- 2529563 TI - Calcium regulation of smooth muscle contraction. PMID- 2529564 TI - The elementary process in the actomyosin energy transduction system. AB - The sliding distance of an actin filament induced by a myosin head during one ATP hydrolysis cycle was determined by measuring minimum length of actin filaments moving on myosin-coated glass surface as fast as long ones and the ATPase rate during sliding. The results indicate that the sliding distance is greater than 100nm, suggesting that the mechanical reaction can occur many times during one chemical (ATP hydrolysis) cycle. PMID- 2529565 TI - Effects of okadaic acid on the relationships among force, myosin light chain phosphorylation and ATPase activity in skinned portal vein. PMID- 2529566 TI - Myosin adenosine 5'-triphosphatase in a molluscan catch smooth muscle. PMID- 2529567 TI - Changes in the hydration shell of actomyosin are obligatory for tension generation and movement. PMID- 2529568 TI - Transitions in isoform populations of thick and thin filament proteins and calcium activation of force and ATP hydrolysis by cardiac myofilaments. PMID- 2529569 TI - A myothermal analysis of absolute myosin crossbridge cycling rates in rat hearts. The contribution of myosin polymorphism. PMID- 2529570 TI - Myothermic and polarographic studies in pressure overload hypertrophy of rabbit heart. PMID- 2529571 TI - Ventricular myosin isoenzyme pattern and myocardial contractility. PMID- 2529572 TI - Tension independent heat reflects phospholamban regulation of sarcoplasmic reticulum activity in rabbit papillary muscle. PMID- 2529573 TI - Coupling between myocardial oxygen consumption and mechanics in patients with dilative cardiomyopathy. Influence of vasodilation and positive inotropism. PMID- 2529574 TI - Actomyosin ATPase mechanism and muscle contraction. PMID- 2529575 TI - A comparison of the effects of tryptamine and 5-hydroxytryptamine on feeding following injection into the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus. AB - The effects of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and tryptamine injected into the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN) on food intake, and on noradrenaline- (NA) induced feeding were examined. In nondeprived rats, 12.5-100 nmol 5-HT reduced the intake of palatable wet mash diet over a 30-minute period. Tryptamine (50 and 100 nmol) was without effect in this paradigm. However, when tryptamine was injected into the PVN of rats pretreated with the monoamine oxidase inhibitor, pargyline, a strong anorectic effect was observed. The action of tryptamine in pargyline-treated rats was not affected by depletion of 5-HT levels in the PVN with PCPA. This indicates that the effect of tryptamine is not mediated by a release of endogenous 5-HT. Tryptamine injected into the PVN potentiated the effect of a low dose of 5-HT on food intake. This effect may be due to a prolongation of the activity of 5-HT resulting from tryptamine competing with 5-HT for the same reuptake system. Tryptamine and 5-HT attenuated the feeding response elicited by injection of 25 nmol NA into the PVN. Both tryptamine and 5-HT were more potent at attenuating the effects of NA than in reducing the intake of the palatable wet mash diet. Overall, the results suggest that tryptamine may act via the serotonergic system in the PVN to affect food intake, but it is a weaker compound than 5-HT in this respect. PMID- 2529576 TI - Acne vulgaris. AB - Acne vulgaris is a disease of the pilosebaceous unit that affects nearly all persons to some degree during the teenage years. It is a disease that should be treated because of the anxiety and disfigurement it causes in the affected patient. Acne therapy is directed against the three probable pathogenic processes in acne: (1) abnormal keratinization of the sebaceous follicle, (2) excessive production of sebum, and (3) proliferation of bacteria in the follicle. Superficial acne consisting of comedones and small papulopustules will frequently respond to topical therapy such as retinoic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and topical antibiotics. Deeper lesions require systemic antibiotics of which tetracycline is the drug of choice. Severe, recalcitrant cystic acne usually responds well to the oral retinoid, isotretinoin. The severe teratogenic effects of isotretinoin on a developing fetus make this a risky drug to prescribe for women with childbearing potential. In such cases the greatest precautions should be taken to avoid pregnancy during a course of isotretinoin. Such precautions include pregnancy testing, contraceptive counseling, and the use of at least two effective forms of birth control in sexually active women. PMID- 2529577 TI - Allergic cutaneous reactions to drugs. AB - Because the pathophysiology of many drug eruptions is unknown, the presumption that a drug eruption is due to immune mechanisms is often based on clinical features. The drug exanthem, urticaria, and contact dermatitis are the most common adverse cutaneous reactions to medications. Drug exanthems occur in 2 to 3 per cent of medical inpatients and are most commonly caused by antibiotics and blood products. The incidence of drug exanthems is much higher in certain patient populations (for example, patients with AIDS treated with trimethoprim sulfamethoxazole). Urticaria is the second most common allergic cutaneous reaction to drugs. Individual urticarial lesions last for less than 24 hours and do not leave hyperpigmentation or scarring. Urticaria not accompanied by systemic symptoms should not be treated with systemic corticosteroids or parenteral epinephrine. Allergic contact dermatitis is commonly caused by neomycin, benzocaine, ethylenediamine, diphenhydramine, and transdermal patches. The clinical spectrum of other, less common drug eruptions is wide. Toxic epidermal necrolysis, erythema multiforme, and fixed drug eruptions share similar pathologic features, are caused by many of the same drugs, and may have a similar pathogenesis. Photoallergic drug reactions require the interaction of drugs, UV irradiation, and the immune system. Drugs implicated in causing photoallergy include thiazide diuretics, sulfonamides, and phenothiazines. Eruptions seen in serum sickness include the drug exanthem, urticaria, vasculitis, urticarial vasculitis, and erythema multiforme. Identifying and discontinuing the responsible drug is usually essential for successful therapy of drug eruptions. PMID- 2529578 TI - Seborrhea, psoriasis and the papulosquamous dermatoses. AB - Knowledge of the papulosquamous disorders is an important part of the diagnosis of skin diseases in general. Recognition of these commonly encountered cutaneous problems depends upon familiarity with the configuration and distribution of lesions on various parts of the body. Diagnostic tests (such as KOH to rule out tinea) should be performed, and when therapy does not seem to be successful, the diagnosis should be reconsidered with a biopsy and/or dermatologic consultation. PMID- 2529579 TI - Providing access to home care for disabled children: Minnesota's Medicaid model waiver program. AB - Home care programs for severely disabled, usually technology-dependent, children got a boost in 1981 when the Federal Government gave States permission to use Medicaid to fund home care under the Medicaid model home- and community-based waiver (2176). The model waiver program was unique because it eliminated the bias toward hospitalization by waiving parental income and assets when determining eligibility for children cared for at home and by allowing Medicaid to cover needed home care services. In 1985 Minnesota received Federal approval for the model waiver, and the results are detailed in this report. Although the waiver could provide funding for up to 50 children, after 2 years only 24 children had received approval. Stringent and complex eligibility criteria acted as barriers to accessing the model waiver. In addition, the interaction between the waiver and the State's health care system contributed to inconsistencies in eligibility. This interaction demonstrates the difficulty of administering publicly funded programs in the current health care environment. Recommendations are made for adjusting criteria for eligibility in the waiver program. Unresolved problems facing technology-dependent children on home care programs are discussed. PMID- 2529580 TI - Can sonographers reliably identify anatomic features associated with Down syndrome in fetuses? AB - To standardize femur measurement for the identification of fetuses at risk for Down syndrome, sonographers of varying professional experience and background measured the femurs of 20 Down syndrome fetuses and 709 normal control fetuses. A regression analysis performed to compare biparietal diameter to femur length on the 709 control fetuses yielded the following formula: expected femur length = 9.3105 + 0.9028.biparietal diameter. A ratio of measured-to-expected femur length of 0.91 or lower indicated Down syndrome with a sensitivity of 40%, a specificity of 95%, and a positive predictive value of 3.1%. Eight of the 20 fetuses with Down syndrome (40%) also had a thickened nuchal fold (6 mm or larger). If the nuchal fold findings had been considered with the femur length findings, two more of the fetuses with Down syndrome would have been identified, yielding a sensitivity of 45% and a positive predictive value of 4.3%. Because these measurements were made by eight sonographers rather than a single experienced sonologist, these results could be achieved in most ultrasound laboratories where measurements are done primarily by sonographers. PMID- 2529581 TI - Technical success, clinical success, and patency in laser angioplasty. PMID- 2529582 TI - [Fatal postoperative pulmonary embolism]. AB - A total of 76 cases were investigated in which fatal postoperative pulmonary embolisms were identified at the necroptic study. The following aspects are considered: the high incidence of fatal postoperative pulmonary embolisms in patients without favouring factors in antecedents (38%), and of patients operated for benign affections (50.6%); the rare occurrence of clinical signs of venous thrombosis in patients with fatal postoperative pulmonary embolisms (11.8%); the high incidence of early fatal postoperative pulmonary embolisms (46%)--in the first three days after surgery, of which 26.3% in the first 24 hours and the importance of their identification so as to exclude an erroneous interpretation of the cause of death, and finally the indications and the limitations of the prophylactic treatment with low amounts of heparin. PMID- 2529583 TI - [The value of urinary cytology in the diagnosis and follow-up of patients with primary bladder tumors]. AB - The authors have investigated the cyto-histologic correlation in 146 patients with primary urinary bladder tumours, and the causes which favor the false negative results. The authors found malignant cells in 92% of all cases, and stress the optimal conditions for the cytological investigation. It is considered that the study of the urinary sediment could replace successfully urinary bladder washing for the cytological surveillance of the patients operated for urinary bladder tumours. Diagnostic difficulties are presented, and the causes of the false negative results, which include: associated affections, special pathological conditions, therapeutical procedures, and technical details. The importance is discussed, of the urinary cytology study for the application of the associated immunostimulating therapy. On the basis of their personal experience the authors present succinctly the indications of urinary cytodiagnosis. PMID- 2529584 TI - [Unique forms of the postthrombotic syndrome]. AB - A prospective study was made with a view to analyse and to identify two particular forms of the post-thrombotic syndrome. The post-thrombotic syndrome of the shank can be recognized on the basis of the clinical and of the phlebographic examination. It has a serious prognosis and can be treated either conservatively or by surgery according to case. Its frequency is probably higher than it was presumed on the basis of the first observations. The post-thrombotic venous obstruction may be a cause of arterial ischemia during effort but this occurs only in very few cases. This particular syndrome is manifested as intermittent claudication which occurs in the clinical picture of chronic orthostatic venous failure. The probable mechanism is the direct effect of increased pressure in the arterial and venous circulation in vessels with normal walls, as a result of an important obstruction in the return circulation. Lumbal sympathectomy appears to improve durable claudication and hyperhidrosis. PMID- 2529585 TI - [Total cystectomy in the treatment of infiltrative bladder tumors. The conclusions of an analysis of postoperative results in a series of 269 nonselected patients at late follow-up]. AB - The authors report their experience with 341 radical cystectomies, and 61 anterior pelvectomies for infiltrating urinary bladder tumours, of which 269 were followed at long periods of time after surgery. In 56% of the patients there was tumoural involvement of lymph nodes at the time when cystectomy was performed. In 88% of the cases the tumours were of G3 stage. Fifty-one percent of the patients had had one previous surgical procedure, and in 75% of the cases surgery was performed when the upper urinary apparatus was already dilated by tumoural obstruction, or when high serum nitrogen was present. Planned radical cystectomy was possible in only 26% of the patients. The technical procedure implies a significant change consisting in the exclusive use of the urethropelvic drainage, and this had excellent results. The urinary derivation used was adapted to the stage of development of the tumour, and after consideration of the condition of the upper urinary apparatus. In 130 cases cutaneous urethrostomy was performed, in 95 patients urethrocolic derivation, in 23 cases cutaneous transurethral ureterostomy, and in 6 patients substitution bladder was achieved. The global postoperative mortality of 16.6% was mainly due to the advanced age of patients, the advanced stages of the tumours, to high serum nitrogen, infections, and to operatory indications that were not always justified but were determined by clinical complications and the extreme discomfort of patients. The most frequent early postoperative complications included an association of toxic shock and high serum nitrogen. In the authors' experience preoperative radiotherapy did not have satisfactory results, and chemotherapy only resulted in inconstant improvement of the patients' condition The late results were not satisfactory, the deaths in the first two years after surgery being the result, almost in exclusivity, to a continued evolution of the neoplastic tissue remaining in the pelvic cavity, and that was due to the fact that the patients had been operated at a very advanced stage of the disease. Total cystectomy has an elective indication in urinary bladder tumours of the T2, T2a, or T3b type, with N0 and M0. It should be carried out as planned surgical intervention and presumes a mandatory urinary derivation that should provide a maximal renal protection. PMID- 2529586 TI - [Primary exertion thrombophlebitis of the upper extremities: clinical and therapeutic aspects]. AB - The authors present 4 cases of "effort" thrombophlebitis of the upper limb that were diagnosed both clinically and thrombophlebographically, and in whom classical therapy was applied: total rest, anticoagulants, elevation of the limb. All the cases had sequels of variable intensity, and in 2 of the patients Roos' transaxillary route was used which revealed a double anterior scalenus muscle insertion, and compressive fibro-sclerous tissue. The pathogeny of the affection makes mandatory the removal of extrinsic or intrinsic factors which may generate a new thrombosis or vascular and neurologic sequels. PMID- 2529587 TI - [Postoperative abdominal wall endometriosis]. AB - A case is presented, of endometriosis of the abdominal parietal scar after cesarean section, in a woman aged 35 years where emergency surgery had to be performed for a diagnosis of epiploic strangulation in an eventration point. The mechanisms involved in the development of endometriosis are discussed, as well as anatomopathologic, clinical and therapeutic aspects. PMID- 2529588 TI - [Traumatic lesions of the upper extremity from shooting oneself with a bolt gun]. AB - Seven clinical observations are presented, illustrating the great diversity of traumatic lesions of the upper limb resulting from accidental self-shooting with bolt pistol. Although such accidents are rare a series of therapeutical attitudes, sometimes quite complex, are described. PMID- 2529589 TI - [Anesthesiologic aspects of surgical interventions in patients with liver diseases]. AB - The authors review the anesthesiology problems in hepatic patients on the one hand, and on the other hand they present their personal experience in anesthesia of patients with jaundice, upper digestive haemorrhage and hepatic coma. The conclusions of the study are the following: 1. The major hepatic functions which can interfere with anesthetic drugs and techniques are related to changes in the hepatic blood flow, the synthesis of proteins, homeostasis of carbohydrates, and especially the metabolization of medicinal drugs. 2. Hepatic patients presenting with jaundice, upper digestive haemorrhage, and hepatic coma raise special problems concerning preoperative preparations and anesthetic technique. Considering the risk factors which occur in the patient with jaundice denutrition, hypoalbuminemia and partially angiocholitis can be corrected by medical means. Hemostasis on hepatic patients with upper digestive haemorrhage is the most difficult problem, and also very controversial. There are not, at present, either infallible solutions or arguments in favor of hemostatic techniques (by compression, endoscopic haemostasis, or surgical hemostasis). The comatose patient is usually the final evolutive stage of the hepatic disease, and the mortality in this category of patients, indifferent of the therapy, is higher than 80%. PMID- 2529590 TI - [The visual system of premature and term infants]. AB - The paper presents the sensitive and sensorimotor development of the premature and term children. The visual acuity is examined by determination of the optokinetic nystagmus, use of the evoked potential and preferential sight. PMID- 2529591 TI - [Reflections on the timeliness and utility of an ambulatory glaucoma center as part of the Coltea Ophthalmologic Clinic and the Bucharest Municipal Hospital]. AB - The paper presents several remarks on opportunity and usefulness of the centre for outpatient follow up of glaucoma within the "Coltea" Ophthalmology Clinic and of the Bucharest Municipal Hospital. The unconfirmed, suspected patients were not considered glaucomatous. The exam of the eye has to be complete, to include the systematic investigation of the ocular tension, and of the visual field, by evidencing scotoma in Bjerrum's area photometric disharmonies and chromatic alterations. A special attention must be paid to the low pressure glaucoma, as a peculiar evolution form of glaucoma with open angle. PMID- 2529593 TI - [An experimental model of data base organization in glaucoma with computer processing (a preliminary note)]. AB - The authors report on an experimental model of data base set up for glaucoma with possibilities of statistical-mathematical processing. The application is designed for miniprocessors of the INDEPENDENT or CORAL type in FORTRAN 77. The paper presents the level structure of the display, and the ways of using the information under the form of assisted diagnosis and prognosis, according to which the attention is then directed to the rhythm and detailed content of the future examination. PMID- 2529592 TI - [The possibilities for early diagnosis in primary open-angle glaucoma]. AB - The study was carried out on a group of 127 patients, admitted into the Cluj Napoca Clinic of Ophthalmology, suspected of primary glaucoma with open angle. The complex antiglaucomatous investigation confirmed the diagnosis in 57 cases. PMID- 2529594 TI - [Diagnostic problems in "glaucoma without pressure"]. AB - Glaucoma low tension in the clinical result of an important haemodynamic ocular imbalance of frequently arteriosclerotic etiology, characterized by decrease of the ciliary gradient, with evolution in the aged patients within a characteristic clinical context, dominated by the presence of arterial hypotension and increase of plasmatic fibrinogen. PMID- 2529595 TI - [Pseudophakic glaucoma]. AB - Pseudophakia generates a new pathology, sometimes atypically solved, insufficiently codified yet. The paper presents the experience on quite a large group of cataract-operated patients with implantation of pseudofac, in which cases of ocular hypertonia appeared. PMID- 2529596 TI - [Chandler's basal iridectomy. Our observations on surgical indications, technic and value]. AB - Basal iridectomy is a pupillary bypass having a prophylactic role, when made on an eye with potential glaucoma, and a curative role when performed on an eye with primary narrow angle glaucoma in the reversible stage of the disease. The authors present their experience on 37 eyes, using Charleux-Etienne's technique that, compared with Chandler's technique is more advantageous: the limb remains intact for a possible future operation, it is simple, rapid, without risks, efficient and elegant. PMID- 2529597 TI - [Etiology, therapeutic management and functional results in traumatic cataract in children. A 5-year study]. AB - The paper reports on the author's own experience in the surgical treatment of the traumatic cataract in children. The authors consider that implantation of the artificial crystalline must not be a general implantation method, in any eye. It has to be made discriminatingly and take into consideration the posttraumatic inflammatory reactions and the local state of each eye. PMID- 2529598 TI - [Rare palpebral tumors in children]. AB - The paper reports on two cases of rare palpebral tumours--pilomatrixomas- existent in two children under the age of two years. PMID- 2529599 TI - [Unilateral congenital glaucoma]. AB - The paper reports on the case of a 6-year-old child with OD congenital glaucoma and increase of the ocular globe volume with ruptures of Descemet's membrane. VARE = 1/8 non correcting, VALE = 34 mmHg, RE--divergent strabismus. The left microphthalmus with the corneal diameter of 9 mm. Normal karyotype. Trabeculectomy was performed at the right eye. Good postsurgical evolution. This is a case of phenocopy because in the development and formation of the iridocorneal angle in the sixth month of pregnancy, a series of extrinsic teratogenous factors appeared: measles, influenza, toxemia of pregnancy that produced modifications of the trabecula. PMID- 2529600 TI - [Ocular hypertension and glaucoma: 2 clinical entities?]. AB - Are the ocular hypertension and glaucoma two different clinical entities? Recent researches show that ocular hypertension can have an evolution period, of about five years, without clinical manifestations of glaucoma. In ocular hypertension, the atrophy of the retinal nerve precedes with many years the appearance of the perimetric deficits. Retinographies in non-erythro light show a destruction, up to 40%, of the nerve fibres of the retina without evident perimetric modifications. The conclusion is reached that intraocular hypertension is only an incipient stage of a glaucoma not yet detected by the clinical means available. PMID- 2529601 TI - [The periphery of the iris in glaucoma]. AB - The author surveys, on the basis of some personal observations, the bibliographic data referring to the role of the iris in excretion of the aqueous humor. The second part of the paper reports on the authors clinical material, with emphasis on the great number of cases of atrophy of the iris periphery in the simple glaucoma and that appearing in the advanced age. The book concludes with references on the etiopathogenic correlations between the structural modifications of the iris root and the changes of intraocular tension. PMID- 2529602 TI - [Congenital anomalies of the lacrimal apparatus]. AB - The paper reports on a synthesis of an important part of ophthalmology: congenital affections of the lacrimal apparatus. The first part presents topographically the congenital lacrimal entities. The authors survey then the methods of classic and modern investigations and conclude with a synthetic presentation of the techniques of surgery. PMID- 2529604 TI - [Surgical treatment of vasomotor rhinitis]. AB - The author recommends the cutting in the nasal septum of a window, size 2-3 X 3-4 cm, for healing severe vasomotor rhinitis, refractory to the classic O.R.L. and allergologic treatments. Of 53 patients operated this way, in 39 the vasomotor rhinitis was completely cured. PMID- 2529603 TI - [Hemorrhages occurring in reconstructive surgery on the pharynx and cervical esophagus]. AB - The author presents 28 cases of cervical hemorrhages occurring in 235 cervical esophagoplasties (11.9%), generated by the lesion of the transplant vessels or of the vessels of the cervical area. The late postoperative hemorrhages are the most severe ones, often cataclysmic (eight cases with five deaths, 62.5%) being mainly the result of the primitive carotid erosion by a salivary fistula. In two cases the cataclysmic hemorrhage appeared after a simple cervical junction for a benign stenosis, a situation not yet mentioned in the literature. The double ligature of the primitive carotid is the only efficient method. Used in four cases, it was successful in three of them, with a single case of tardy hemiplegia following a rachianesthesia. PMID- 2529605 TI - [Current aspects in Meniere's syndrome]. AB - The authors report, on the basis of the data in the literature and their own experience, the main elements in etiopathology, positive and differential diagnosis and treatment of Meniere's syndrome. The new discoveries of the genesis of endolymphatic hydrops, methods of clinic diagnosis and paraclinical investigations (liminal and supraliminal tonal audiometry, impedance measurement, Luscher's, Metz's audiometric tests, and the balance test--Fowler's) are described. After presenting the affections which have to be left aside in the diagnosis of Meniere's syndrome, the paper reports shortly on the medical and surgical therapeutic methods used nowadays. PMID- 2529606 TI - [Vertebrobasilar circulatory insufficiency and vestibular disorders]. AB - After a short survey of the data of vertebrobasilar anatomy and physiology, the authors present their conclusions drawn from the study of 110 patients with vertebrobasilar circulatory insufficiency accompanied by severe vestibular disturbances. The paper reports on the clinic disturbances present in the patients studied, with emphasis on the importance of the interdisciplinary consultation and of the repeated otologic examination for application of an adequate therapeutics. PMID- 2529607 TI - [Cat-scratch disease. Comments on a clinical case]. AB - The authors present a clinical case of cat's scratch disease, with lymphadenitis and inoculation pustule. A series of observations are made on the importance of anamnesis, histopathologic examination, elimination of other clinical entities with lymphadenopathic manifestations, for determining the diagnosis. The recent investigations are aimed at identifying the etiologic agent. The treatment of the disease is symptomatic. PMID- 2529609 TI - [ENT involvement in lesions due to firearms]. PMID- 2529608 TI - [Unusual aspects of a case of rhinophyma]. AB - The present paper reports on a case of rhinophyma associated with pendulous fibroma, operated in the same surgical sequence, with grafting the decortication surface of the pyramid with graft of free skin taken from the arm. The clinical and histological characteristics of the case presented and the conclusions to be drawn from it are outlined, as the disease is a nosologic entity rarely met. PMID- 2529610 TI - [Phlebectasia of the internal jugular vein treated by surgery]. AB - The paper reports on three cases of phlebectasia of the internal jugular vein, two in adults and one in a child, admitted and operated in the Cluj-Napoca Clinic of O.R.L. The surgical technique had to be adapted to each case separately, according to the extension of phlebectasia, the patient's age, and other related diseases. PMID- 2529611 TI - [Vascular neoplasms in the ORL organs (anatomic-clinical observations)]. AB - The paper presents two cases of vascular neoplasias: a case of larynx angiosarcoma and a case of angiopericytoma of the root of the tongue. The incidence of the various forms of tumoral proliferations of vascular origin is very rare. The anatomopathologic aspects and the clinical, biological and evolution characteristics of the two cases are analysed according to the recent data in the literature. PMID- 2529612 TI - [Arteriovenous malformation complicated by serious recurrent epistaxis]. AB - Arteriovenous malformations in the region of the head and the neck are rarely manifested by epistaxis. These lesions are usually treated by the vascular surgeon, neurosurgeon, maxillofacial surgeon etc. Anyhow, the role of the specialist in otorhinolaryngology is indispensable when epistaxis gives morphological and functional modifications of the organs in the region of the head and neck. The paper reports on a particular case of severe, relapsing epistaxis, secondary to a geniomasseteric, right, invasive, cavernous hemangioma. The patient was admitted, for four times, in the period 1982-1984, into the O.R.L. clinic, Timisoara, and for two times into the clinic of maxillofacial surgery for severe, relapsing epistaxes in the right nasal pit. In 1983, the ligature of the external carotid artery and the partial ablation of the hemangioma were performed. In 1984, at a new right massive epistaxis, the nasal hemorrhage could not be arrested, and the patient died on November 10, 1984 due to a hemorrhagic shock. PMID- 2529614 TI - [The causes of recurrences in the surgery of chronic ear suppuration]. PMID- 2529613 TI - [Aneurysm of the internal carotid artery with fatal epistaxis]. AB - The paper reports on a case of aneurysm of the internal carotid artery that broke out by the sphenoidal sinus and manifested itself by a violent, lethal nasal hemorrhage. The necropsy established the cause of the hemorrhage. The elements of diagnosis and therapeutical behaviour required by these extremely severe cases are discussed. PMID- 2529615 TI - [The nasal respiratory insufficiency syndrome in children. The physiopathological correlations (I)]. AB - The paper reports on the consequences of the syndrome of nose breathing insufficiency on the cardiovascular apparatus and on the cerebral circulation in children. The temporary physiological nasal blockage is mentioned too. PMID- 2529616 TI - [The diagnosis, evolution and treatment of cavum conchae neoplasms based on cases from the Coltea Radiology and ENT Clinics]. AB - The authors report on the result of a study carried out on a group of 73 patients with neoplasm of the cavum, admitted and followed up in the "Coltea" clinics of radiology and O.R.L. for 5 years (1984-1988). The paper shows the incidence on groups of age and sex, the risk factors, the time elapsed between the onset and the first examination, till the diagnosis is established, the elements of positive diagnosis and also the onset characteristics. The histologic types of the cavum neoplasm followed, the therapeutic measures, and the results obtained are presented, with emphasis on the factors able to improve them. PMID- 2529617 TI - [Diagnostic and treatment possibilities in cochleovestibular syndromes]. AB - The cases of cochleovestibular syndromes admitted into the O.R.L. ward during one year are statistically processed. 81 cases of hypoacusis of perception and vertiginous syndromes were admitted between January 1 and December 31, 1987. 42 of them were males and 29 females. 31 were pure cochlear syndromes, 32 vestibular syndromes without affecting the cochlea, and 15 were cochleovestibular syndromes. The paper surveys the available ways of investigation, by which a topographic and etiologic diagnosis can be determined, within certain limits and an adequate treatment can be recommended. PMID- 2529618 TI - [Disabilities during aging: descriptive approach and risk factors. 4-year longitudinal study of an aged rural population]. AB - A longitudinal survey has been conducted from 1982 to 1986 in a rural population of 645 persons aged 60 and over. The aim of this study is to analyse the evolution of disabilities in this population and the main risk factors. The incidence of disabilities within 4 years is more important in the oldest birth cohort groups and this result suggests a cumulative effect of the ageing process and chronic diseases. Indeed, the assessment of predictive factors shows that age and reported morbidity are related to the incidence of disabilities, but two other factors are strongly related to the loss of functional abilities after age adjustment: socioeconomic status and the feeling of uselessness. We conclude that disability in the elderly is not an inevitable consequence of the physiological ageing process and that a preventive approach should be based on a multidimensional concept: physical, social and psychological. PMID- 2529620 TI - [Adjustment to occupational reorienting within the scope of preparatory rehabilitation measures]. AB - A phase II facility in the meaning of the federal government's action programme for the advancement of rehabilitation of disabled persons, the Ulm rehabilitation hospital offers a full therapy chain from acute treatment through to vocational rehabilitation measures. The range of services provided by the "vocational rehabilitation" department are oriented on the rehabilitees' individual potential, and are supported by a multitude of follow-along medical-therapeutic services. Experience over several years has lead to the conclusion that, obviously, comprehension and integration of the learning contents presented are not contingent on the individual's physical and intellectual capacities alone. A central determining factor for successful programme participation seems to be the personal coping strategy, closely linked with the rehabilitees' fundamental convictions and character. An attitude that attributes success to personal achievement can be contrasted with an attitude that views personal performance as being dependent on inapproachable outside influences, and an underlying optimistic attitude was found to correlate with successful outcome. PMID- 2529619 TI - [Critical observation of selected exercises of power training in relation to prevention of postural damage and physical handicaps]. AB - Prevention of and compensation for muscular weaknesses in postural disorders and physical disability are priority tasks of physiotherapy. A range of typical exercises are therefore being used to strengthen weakened groups of muscles, some of them traditionally already included in school sports. Most therapy concepts primarily focus on muscle strengthening, without taking into consideration that it is crucial to redress muscular imbalances by stretching contracted muscle groups as well. Based on this experience, the effectiveness of several specifically modified exercises was tested, derived from the usual range of physiotherapy activities in strengthening very commonly weakened muscle groups, i.e. the abdominal, gluteal, sacrospinalis and shoulder-blade affixing musculature. To increase exercise effectiveness, training machines were used in addition. Stretching exercises were carried out initially, in terms of passive stretching with isometric pre-tension. The following muscle groups were stretched: rectus femoris m., iliopsoas m., pectoralis m., and lumbar sacrospinalis m. Altogether, 64 patients between age 16 and 27 were examined following training therapy, 58 patients presented pure postural disorders, 6 had slight cerebral movement disorders. Two almost equal study groups were formed, one (31 patients) receiving only gymnastic exercises, the other (33 patients) using training machines. The muscular situation was tested after 6 months by means of Janda's semiquantitative muscle-testing. For further objective assessment of therapy outcome, Neugebauer's 'back-index' was determined. Muscular harmony and spinal balance were found to have significantly improved in the second group who had used the training machines. A slight reduction of muscle spasticity in addition was found in the patients with cerebral movement disorders. PMID- 2529621 TI - [Preparation for an occupational-social new beginning--preparation for occupational rehabilitation]. AB - Rehabilitation preparation is needed to the extent that occupational reorientation may give rise to a multitude of personal insecurities. Increased requirements demand augmented efforts to motivate for independent and competent functioning in the occupational career ahead. Given this aim, the Bad Krozingen rehabilitation center's preparatory programmes, in their entry phase, are focussed on assessment of deficits in competence and on enhancing basic skills- social, educational as well as vocational. The subsequent main phase is aimed at demonstrating the practical applicability of learning contents in future occupational situations, and a reality-based vocational setting is sought to be attained by implementation of a holistic, project-oriented approach in this context in particular. The transition phase, finally, is intended to achieve the individual prerequisites for subsequent rehabilitation activities, in particular training programmes. Initial experience has shown that the approach outlined is promising in particular in respect of independence, social behaviour and motivation for the learning and vocational tasks ahead. PMID- 2529622 TI - [Myocardial microcirculation in cardiac hypertrophy]. PMID- 2529623 TI - [Dominant renal polycystic disease]. AB - Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease is the third cause of end-stage chronic renal failure (CRF) requiring dialysis and transplantation. Over a 5-year period we collected 21 cases of that disease. The patients' mean age at the time of diagnosis was 48 years and the sex ratio 1.1. Pain was the most frequent signal symptom, being present in 43 p. 100 of the patients. Varying degrees of renal impairment were found in 61 p. 100 of the cases, and arterial hypertension in 38 p. 100. The diagnosis, suspected on clinical grounds, was confirmed by ultrasonography in 95 p. 100 of the patients. Beside CRF and hypertension, the main complications were microscopic haematuria (38 p. 100) and urinary tract infection (24 p. 100). In two patients the disease was associated with hepatic polycystosis. Treatment was symptomatic for CRF (4 patients were put on periodical haemodialysis) and for the other complications. On the basis of this series, we discuss the profile and prognosis of polycystic kidney disease in our environment, and notably its effects on renal function, and we underline the usefulness of familial investigations and the need for genetic counselling. PMID- 2529624 TI - [The differential diagnosis of lumbar disk prolapse]. AB - When examining a patient with a radicular syndrome the first step is to localize the neurologic damage. Clinical examination usually allows differentiation of radicular from plexus and peripheral nerve lesions and also from non-neurogenic symptoms. The second step is to look for etiology, which often needs additional investigations. Plain films of the spine with views in flexion and extension show disease of the bony structures and instability. Soft tissue alterations leading to radicular or dural compression are best shown by computed tomography, which is also the method of choice to prove space occupying lesions of the abdominal and pelvic cavity. Myelography shows best longitudinal extension of intraspinal processes. Magnetic resonance imaging is the method of choice to prove intramedullary lesions. Early diagnosis of spine infection needs scintigraphy. Radicular inflammation or irritation by tumor-cells (meningosis) will be missed with-out CSF-examination. PMID- 2529625 TI - [8 genealogic trees of families with Huntington's chorea in Canete (Peru)]. AB - An epidemiological study was conducted from 1986 to 1988 in the valley of Canete, Peru, where clusters of Huntington's chorea had been detected in Indian-White inhabitants. Eight genealogical trees are reported. PMID- 2529626 TI - [Development of rheumatological services in the Sverdlovsk district]. PMID- 2529627 TI - [Immunoregulatory disorders and the proliferative activity of T- and B lymphocytes in osteoarthrosis]. AB - The authors studied the activity of nuclear chromatin of the peripheral T- and B lymphocytes in the polyclonal activation test using the method of quantitative cytofluorometry. A new experimental model in vitro has been proposed for the study of regulatory function of T-lymphocytes. It was found out that in approximately 50% of osteoarthrosis patients the greater part of the peripheral lymphoid population is in the state of initial activation and the activated B lymphocytes occur more frequently than T-lymphocytes. PMID- 2529628 TI - Immunocytochemical studies of gastric H+,K+-ATPase in the developing rat. AB - The appearance of the enzyme H+,K+-ATPase was studied in the gastric mucosa of rats during the perinatal period. By means of monoclonal antibodies against the enzyme, immunoreactivity was regularly detected in parietal cells 1 day before birth. The intensity of the staining and the frequency of stained cells increased up to 10-12 days after birth, when adult levels were approached. Electron microscopy showed that the initial staining occurred at the apical surface of the parietal cells, with only faint or no staining at the secretory canaliculi. From 5 days after birth immunoreactivity was observed also at the tubulovesicular membranes. PMID- 2529629 TI - LHRH analogue as a depot preparation (Zoladex) in the treatment of advanced carcinoma of the prostate followed by orchiectomy as a second line therapy--a phase II study. AB - An LHRH agonist, Zoladex, was employed as a monthly depot in 56 previously untreated patients with advanced carcinoma of the prostate. Of 53 evaluable patients, 27 achieved partial remission and 7 were stable. Median duration of response was 10 months. A favorable subjective response was attained in 68% of the patients. During treatment, serum testosterone was in the castrate range in all patients except five. Possible explanations for this escape phenomenon are discussed. No toxicity was observed and treatment was well tolerated in all patients. Thirty-two patients underwent bilateral orchiectomy following treatment failure of Zoladex. In one patient partial remission according to protocol criteria was recorded. Treatment with LHRH agonists seems safe and may serve as an alternative to conventional hormonal treatment of advanced carcinoma of the prostate. PMID- 2529630 TI - Risk indicators for low back trouble. AB - A general population of 928 men and women aged 30, 40, 50 and 60 years participated in a health survey with emphasis on low back trouble (LBT). In all 135 variables were analysed to identify possible indicators for first-time experience and recurrence or persistence of LBT during a one-year follow-up. Stepwise logistic regression analyses were carried out to identify the most informative combinations of indicators for prediction of LBT. For men, a high risk for recurrence or persistence of LBT was associated with frequent LBT in the past, worsening of the LBT since its onset, sciatica and living alone. For women corresponding risk indicators were: recency of the last LBT episode, waking up during night because of LBT, aggravation of LBT when standing, rumbling of "the stomach" and smoking. The strongest risk indicators for first-time experience of LBT were epigastric pain, daily smoking and low isometric endurance of the back muscles. In addition, hospitalisations for whatever cause and a long distance from home to work showed predictive power for first-time LBT among gainfully employed participants. The results indicate that persons with either recurring or first-time LBT had more health problems and probably lived under a higher psycho social pressure than those without LBT in the follow-up year. PMID- 2529631 TI - [Does the cardiogoniogram change following revascularization?]. AB - 19 patients with one-vessel coronary disease were studied by cardiogoniometry (CGM), a new computerized vectorcardiographic method, before and after revascularization. In 14 patients revascularization had been performed by the method of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTCA) and in 5 patients by aortocoronary bypass operation. Although the majority of cases showed a good postoperative result, CGM parameters failed to demonstrate a significant change, i.e. a previous pathologic CGM remained unchanged. It therefore appears to be doubtful whether CGM is reliable enough to assess the results of revascularization, possibly because it is more sensitive to infarcted than potentially ischemic yet vital myocardium. PMID- 2529632 TI - [Local development of coronary angioplasty]. AB - From December 1980 to January 1989, over 1600 coronary angioplasty procedures were performed at the University Hospital of Geneva. The increase in interventions per year has been particularly marked since 1983 and coronary angioplasty procedures have since outnumbered coronary bypass operations, although the latter have been increasing too. The shortening of the waiting list for bypass surgery and the ageing of the surgical population can be attributed to coronary angioplasty. In the German-speaking part of Switzerland and in the country as a whole, coronary bypass surgery still dominates angioplasty in terms of numbers. Multivessel coronary angioplasty has decreased in importance in Geneva and accounts currently for about 10% of the procedures. The general growth of coronary angioplasty is therefore due to improvement in early detection of coronary artery disease, thus yielding good candidates for angioplasty, and to more frequent attempts at recanalization of chronic total coronary occlusions. This development is in keeping with that observed at the University Hospital of Lausanne but contrasts with those at the University Hospitals of Basel and Zurich. There, coronary angioplasty has gained importance only over the last 2 years, due to extension of indications to multivessel angioplasty. Primary success of the most recent 1500 interventions in Geneva was 85% with an incidence of major complications of 6% (infarction 3.5%, emergency surgery 2.0%, death 0.5%). In spite of technical improvements, there has been no persistent amelioration of results of coronary angioplasty over time. This may be explained by the fact that technically more intricate lesions (e.g., chronic total occlusions) have been tackled.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2529633 TI - [Enoximone as an alternative to mechanical circulatory support prior to heart transplantation]. AB - Enoximone, a relatively new type III phosphodiesterase (PDE III) inhibitor with combined positive inotropic and vasodilating properties, was used as a pharmacological bridge to heart transplantation in a patient with severe dilatative cardiomyopathy (ejection fraction 11-13%), who developed cardiogenic shock refractory to conventional therapy with catecholamines and vasodilators. Enoximone led to an 88% increase in cardiac index (from 1.6 to 3.0 l/min.m2). Despite a noticeable rise in heart rate, stroke index increased by 57%. Systemic vascular resistance decreased by 48% without any relevant change in mean arterial pressure. Cardiac filling pressures remained high. Oxygen transport doubled and oxygen extraction ratio decreased by 10%. Apart from a decrease in arterial oxygen tension (from 15.8 to 12.8 kPa [119 to 96 mm Hg]), no other side effects were noted. Withdrawal of catecholamine therapy did not cause any relevant haemodynamic changes. Although complications arose from an uncontrolled septic state, orthotopic heart transplantation was performed with success 74 hours after initiation of enoximone therapy. As the PDE III inhibitor enoximone exerts its potent inotropic and vasodilating effects without requiring adrenergic receptor activation, it may be used as an alternative to mechanical support in patients who develop cardiogenic shock resistant to catecholamines while awaiting heart transplantation. PMID- 2529634 TI - [Leukoplakia of the urinary tract]. AB - The Author describes the etiopathogenetic and histological aspects of leukoplakia in comparison with the squamous metaplasia of vaginal type (trigonal leukoplakia). They present a description both under anatomic and clinic point of view to achieve a correct diagnostic and therapeutical assessment to give a standardization of the term "leukoplakia" which is often referred for different pathologies. PMID- 2529635 TI - [Conservative surgical treatment of bilateral renal neoplasms]. AB - Surgery seems to be the only effective treatment for bilateral kidney neoplasms as shown by the better survival rate of operated patients compared with those otherwise treated or untreated at all. The best conservative treatments, regarding radicality and security required by these neoplasms, are the enucleation and the partial in situ nephrectomy. Our study is based on 11 patients affected by bilateral kidney neoplasms; 8 of them, in which there were no signs of metastatization, have undergone surgical treatment. In 2 patients (18%) a bilateral enucleation was performed and in 6 (55%) monolateral enucleation together with a controlateral radical nephrectomy. All tumors developed simultaneously have been operated in the same session. No postoperative complications were observed except in 2 patients which developed a transient renal insufficiency. The follow up was from 2 to 66 months. All patients were examined with echotomography or CT scan at least once a year and are, up today, in good health condition and tumor free. PMID- 2529636 TI - [Carcinoma of the urethra in patients having undergone cystectomy for neoplasm of the bladder]. AB - The multifocality of the cancer of the urethra is a concept already known so for time, therefore urethral lesions are expected in patients with carcinoma of the bladder with an incidence which varies from 4% to 18%. A retrospective study of incidence of transitional cell carcinoma of the urethra of personal sample of patients having cystectomy is reported. Of 259 patients who underwent cystectomy 13 developed a urethral tumour; 7.7% according to the international literature. The paper regards the characteristics of the urethral tumour by defining patients liable to risk where the carcinoma is plurifocal, or situated at the neck of the bladder and where frequent endoscopic operations have been performed or when there is a urethral "ca in situ". In these cases cystourethrectomy is suggested while the urethra is removed in presence of positive cytology in other forms. According to the authors' experience the survival of patients who have undergone a urethrectomy after cystectomy is 46%. PMID- 2529637 TI - [Urethral stenosis: presuppositions on the physiopathology and our experience with internal urethrotomy]. AB - From 1982 till 1986 in our department 92 patients with single or multiple urethral strictures underwent internal urethrotomy according to Sachse. The Authors present a critical evaluation of etiology, pathophysiology, clinical prognostic factors and therapeutic methodology. The results confirm the efficacy of internal urethrotomy in both the primary and relapsing urethral strictures. PMID- 2529638 TI - [Evaluation of the risk of hepatitis delta virus (HDV) infection in a population of hemodialyzed patients: significance of the determination of anti-delta antibodies in the blood]. AB - Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) is a defective virus which requires the helper function of hepatitis B virus (HBV) for replication. HDV infection occurs only during or after HDV infection. Viral infection spreads parenterally in both cases. However, it has been reported that the risk of HDV infection is limited to hemodialysed patients, unlike the risk of HBV infection. In order to verify these findings the Authors studied 108 patients undergoing periodical hemodialytic treatment in order to study the delta antibodies present in their blood. Sixty one of these subjects had received previous blood transfusions, 15 were HBsAg positive and 7 positive for other serological markers of the hepatitis B virus. None of the subjects examined was positive for anti HDV. Our results agreed with the literature reporting an incidence of positive HDV serological markers limited to hemodialyzed patients. The Authors observed that the behaviour of the HDV serological markers can vary from patient to patient and that it is impossible to furnish diagnosis of HDV infection after HBV and HDV clearance. Since these factors can lead to underestimation of the real incidence of HDV infection in hemodialyzed patients, the Authors underline the need to perform long term epidemiological studies and to investigate all the HDV serological markers. PMID- 2529639 TI - [Treatment of male genital infections with enoxacin]. AB - Inflammatory disease such as prostatitis and prostatovesiculitis, can affect the fertility potential of the male population. In this study, the Authors tested the therapeutical efficacy of a second generation quinolone, enoxacin, in patients suffering from vesicular and/or prostatic inflammations. This drug has been shown to diffuse into the prostatic fluid, achieving therapeutical concentrations either in acute or chronic pathological conditions. Thirty infertile patients referring to our Andrology Center and showing seminal signs (leukocytes, abnormal sperm forms, chemical and physical alterations, etc) of genital tract inflammations were found to have positive sperm culture for enoxacin-sensitive strains. Further investigations (echotomography) showed that they were affected by prostatic and/or vesicular subacute chronic inflammations. The mean age was 32.2 (range 20-36) ys. All the patients discontinued any previous treatment for at least 90 days. Enoxacin was administered at the dose of 300 mg b.i.d. for two cycles of 10 days each, with intervals of 20 days. At the beginning and at the end of the treatment (days 0 and 60), semen analysis and culture were performed. A paired-T test was employed for the statistical evaluation of data. 26.6% of patients ad an altered fluidification before treatment. Only 10.0% of them showed the same sign after treatment. A condition of hyperviscosity was present in 50% and 16.6% of patients before and after treatment respectively. Likewise, an elevated number of leukocytes (greater than 10(6)/ml) occurred in the ejaculates of 43.3% of patients and in 23.3% after enoxacin treatment. Enoxacin treatment was efficacious in 89.2% of cases, in presence of either Gram positive or Gram negative bacteria.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2529641 TI - My views about the applied anatomy on the penis and the physiopathology of erection. AB - From 1964 till 1977 I had the opportunity to make a study on circa 300 cadaver penises (ROMANIA). My goal was to begin the surgical treatment of the organic impotency. Parallel with the investigations in mortuo (Table I), I began the explorations in vivo: clinical, general; and especially: "local" exploration of the executive organ, the penis; the methods used are enumerated in table II. The aims were: a) the diagnosis and b) the possibility of surgical treatment of organic impotence. After 1977, in west Germany, I could continue only my clinical work; (diagnosis and surgery). Till now I examined circa 5000 men with or without potency troubles; I could perform circa 1900 operations, in the last 9 years almost only with penile implants. I developed my own patterns. In this way, I could discover in mortuo and then confirm in vivo: The importance of the penile structures for a true potency; I described a "virile morphogram of the penis" (table III). The frequency of the anatomical variations --New, unknown causes of organic impotence at the level of the penis. Thus I described as first in 1975 (in rumanian) the "leakage factor" of the corpora cavernosa; later I described the frequency of fibroses in the corpus cavernosum penis (CCP). I could demonstrate that "the fixed impotency", especially in ageing men, is almost always organic (somato-psychic). Permanently improving the surgical proceeding helped me to reduce to a minimum the always possible complications. For instance: in the last 9 years, in circa 1400 operations with penile implants I had no infection more. As a rule a surgical proceeding must succeed, if possible, "from the first and for ever". It is for that, the penile implants have the most important place in the treatment of organic impotence, (not only as "ultima ratio"). PMID- 2529640 TI - [Enoxacin in the treatment of bacterial prostato-cystitis]. AB - Thirty-three patients suffering from acute, subacute or chronic prostatovesiculitis were admitted to an open, non comparative trial. Enoxacin was administered at the daily dosage of 400 mg every 12 hours for 10 days starting from the enrollment. A second cycle of treatment was performed if cure was not obtained with the first cycle. Treatment efficacy was established by assessing patient symptoms related to the infection, such as pollakiuria and dysuria, consistency and volume of prostate and spermatic vesicles (evaluated by rectal examination and transrectal ultra-sonography); bacterioscopical and bacteriological evaluations of prostate/vesicles secretion with sensitivity testing were also carried out. All observations were collected at baseline, 5 and 30 days after the end of the first cycle and 5 days after the end of the 2nd cycle of treatment. After the first cycle of treatment, cure was obtained in 22 subjects (67%) and clinical improvement in 24 (73%). All but one patients still infected at the end of the first treatment period, showed improvement (5; 45.5%) or cure (6; 54.5%). The end of the second cycle None of the 22 patients cured with one cycle of treatment relapsed within 30 days after the end of treatment, confirming they really achieved cure. Side effects were observed only in 1 case (mild vertigo); no drop outs were observed. These results suggest that enoxacin may be successfully used in the treatment of prostato-vesiculitis. PMID- 2529642 TI - Current views on the occurrence and significance of Fusarium toxins. PMID- 2529643 TI - Impairment, disability and handicap in chronic respiratory illness. AB - Chronic obstructive airways disease (COAD) is a major, though neglected, medical and social problem in the United Kingdom today. Dyspnoea is one of the most distressing and disabling symptoms of COAD, which is itself the largest single cause of absence from work in the United Kingdom. 92 patients suffering from COAD were interviewed in order to assess impairment, disability and handicap. Measures included spirometric tests of lung function; the Fletcher breathlessness grading scale, the oxygen cost diagram and a visual analogue scale of dyspnoea; the Functional Limitations Profile (FLP); and the shortened 12 item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12), supplemented by the 7-item GHQ sub-scales of anxiety and severe depression. Low correlations were found between lung function and disability (-0.38, P less than 0.001), accounting for only 14% of the variance, and high correlations were found to exist between measures of dyspnoea and disability (-0.90, P less than 0.001). Major areas of disability and handicap included; household management, ambulation, sleep and rest, recreation and pastimes and work. Financial problems and difficulties, housing problems and problems of social isolation were also frequently reported. The paper goes on to discuss both the need for a more integrated approach to the care and rehabilitation of COAD patients and their families and for a complementary social perspective and approach to COAD and its treatment. PMID- 2529644 TI - [Work time losses of medical personnel at a rural medical center]. AB - Proceeding from the study of the work of medical personnel at the rural physician's station, a set of recommendations has been developed. They involve improvement of management of medical facilities at the rural physician's station, planning and information supply, outpatient and inpatient care, labour organization and vocational training of the staff, raising efficacy of preventive work. Application of the above recommendations help us decrease significantly inadequate work time losses and increase the share of the main types of work of the medical personnel. Thus, it is shown that work efficiency of medical staff can be raised and health care delivery to the rural population improved. PMID- 2529645 TI - [Improving the organization of primary health care for invalids with impaired vision]. AB - The results of the work of 6 health posts at electrical engineering plants of the Ukrainian Society of treh Blind are presented. The number of attendencies for invalids with eyesight disorders constituted 29.5 annually, for those with good eyesight it was 6.7. Time losses for a curative and diagnostic consultation and provision of medical care to invalids of the Ist group with eyesight disorders exceeded the time necessary for rendering care to those who could see by 31-34%. Feldshers spent 43.6% of their working time and medical nurses 65.3% on medical care. Attendencies associated with psychic disorders were listed as one of the biggest health problems in the disease pattern of the blind and those with weak eyesight, 91.1% of psychic cases being attributed to vegeto-vascular dystonia, diseases of the circulatory system, injuries and their aftereffects. A set of proposals was developed, thus it became possible to regulate the work of the health personnel of health posts at the enterprises belonging to the Society of the Blind. PMID- 2529646 TI - [Smoking among physicians and measures for its control]. AB - Questionnaire survey of 107 physician smokers of the city of Perm was carried out in order to find out the reasons for smoking of physicians and their opinion on the ways for its eradication among medical workers. Eighty three per cent of doctors began smoking before entering medical institutes, continued to smoke during their study at the Institute and had a long-term experience of smoking, even more than 30 years. Thirteen physicians don't want to stop smoking. On graduating from the Institute, 14.9% of physicians started smoking being fully aware of its adverse health effects. Almost all the respondents smoke at their workplace but consider prohibitive measures most effective in smoking control among medical personnel. Fourteen per cent of physicians smoke in the presence of their patients. More than half of the respondents experience adverse changes in their health state. It is pointed out that prohibitive measures have a formal character. First of all each doctor should make an adequate choice himself. Compulsory measures are also needed. It is necessary to promote antismoking propaganda among medical students and to take drastic measures with respect to each student smoker. PMID- 2529647 TI - [Traumatism among the personnel of fishing boats]. AB - The purpose of the study was to analyze accident rates on board the ships of the North Basin Fish Fleet along with the data on surgical interventions during a 10 year period. High accident rates among the members of the deck crew were caused by intensive working conditions characterized by cargo moving, monitoring operations, insufficient lighting of the deck and different mechanisms. Such kinds of work as maintenance and repair of the mechanisms in the machine room, trawling, fishing and fish processing were regarded as highly traumatic. Hand trauma is an occupational injury in sailors because of the great amount of manual labor on board the ships. It was pointed out that control of nonoccupational accidents and alcohol abuse among sailors was also of great importance. PMID- 2529648 TI - [Incidence of urogenital diseases among an urban population]. AB - Proceeding from the representative data it is demonstrated that registration of chronic accumulated pathology increases the mean annual genitourinary disease rates by 42.3%. Differences in consultation rates are presented according to sex, age, occupation and character of employment. PMID- 2529649 TI - [Reserves and problems of intensifying the work of professors and teachers at a medical institute]. AB - Adequate organization of labour process and maximum efficacy of time outlays on the performance of basic functions of the work collective as a whole and its members individually are necessary for the intensification of labour activity of teachers of medical institutes. Actual time outlays of the teachers and professors on their main activity were studied through self motion-time study of daily labour process. Four hundred and thirty four 434 persons were covered by the study, during which 3570 charts were treated. The data analysis revealed that during the studied period, time outlays of the teachers and professors exceeded standards by 1.4; 62.8% of the standard 6-hour working day was spent on educational and training activities, 18.9%, on curative work; 17.2%, on scientific activity and 1.1%, on public activities. The study enabled one to determine dependence of working hours on chair's specialization, the post occupied and teacher's personal characteristics. The urgency of introducing differentiated payment of teachers according to their contribution to the educational, curative and scientific process was emphasized. PMID- 2529650 TI - [A medico-rehabilitation complex and physical therapy rehabilitation center at an industrial plant]. AB - Organization of a medical sanitation complex as an autonomous structural unit comprising physical training centres, medical diagnostic sectors, sports sanitation centres and gym-halls helps in raising efficacy of the Health Programme measures directed towards improving physical-training and health improving work. These measures are conducive to decreasing disease rates among industrial workers and raising economic effect. PMID- 2529651 TI - [Social-ecological focal prevalence of human diseases]. AB - The impact of environmental factors on community health status is analyzed. Methodological approaches to the assessment of causal and effective relationships of anthropotechnogenic changes in environment and community health are proposed. The necessity of the development of the integral concept of social and ecological causes of human diseases is underlined. PMID- 2529652 TI - [Structure and analysis of primary disability of health workers]. AB - Proceeding from the MLEC data the structure of primary disability causes was analyzed among medical workers (physicians, paramedical staff, pharmacists and allied staff). The main disability causes among medical workers were malignant neoplasms, diseases of the cardiovascular system and mental disorders. The analysis of the above structure indicated potential unfavourable effect of working conditions (contact with drugs, psychoemotional load) and incomplete dispensarization of medical workers, their low medical activity. PMID- 2529653 TI - [Characteristics of child morbidity in large families in rural areas of Kazakhstan]. AB - During the 3-year trial period health status of 1233 children in 408 large families was studied in rural areas of Kazakhstan. 49.5% of those families had 4 and more children. According to average consultation rates, morbidity constituted 965.94%, higher rates were registered among boys. Maximum morbidity levels occur in the age group of 1-4. Respiratory diseases occupy the leading place. According to the results of thorough complex medical checkups 331.71 cases of chronic diseases per 1000 examined children have been detected. Actual or "exhausted" morbidity rates have been established at 1297.65%, where respiratory diseases and children of 1-4 years of age also occupy the leading place. Direct correlation of children's health status in large families with a number of socio-hygienic and biologic factors have been established. Children's health status depends on parents' education, their age at the moment of child birth, unhealthy habits and the outcome of the previous pregnancy. PMID- 2529654 TI - [Risk factors of malignant melanoma of the choroid]. PMID- 2529655 TI - [Clinical and economic consequences of errors in the diagnosis of lung cancer at the ambulatory stage]. PMID- 2529656 TI - Monitoring the voluntary fortification of maize meal with riboflavin and nicotinamide. AB - To combat vitamin deficiencies in populations whose dietary staple is maize, the fortification of maize meal with riboflavin and nicotinamide has been recommended. Subsequently, part of the milling industry has voluntarily fortified the meal with these two vitamins. In the present study, the concentrations of added riboflavin and nicotinamide were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography in 43 samples from a wide area. With the exception of three samples, concentrations of these vitamins were below the recommended level, and most were less than half this amount. Fortification programmes require regular monitoring by an independent authority. PMID- 2529657 TI - Screening before immunisation against hepatitis B--is it cost-effective? PMID- 2529658 TI - Economic approaches to health care planning at the regional level. PMID- 2529659 TI - Topical silicone gel: a new treatment for hypertrophic scars. AB - A prospective, controlled clinical trial was designed to assess the efficacy of a new treatment of hypertrophic scars. Silicone gel sheeting was applied to 14 hypertrophic scars in 10 adults for 8 weeks. The treated scars and untreated, mirror-image or adjacent control scars were photographed, biopsy specimens were taken, and they were measured elastometrically before and after treatment. Photography and elastometry were repeated 4 weeks after treatment was discontinued. All the scars that had been treated for at least 12 hours a day were improved clinically after 4 weeks. There was further clinical improvement during the second 4 weeks of treatment. Elastometrically, the treated scars were improved significantly at 4, 8, and 12 weeks, compared with both their own treatment value and the control scars (p less than 0.05). Control scars were unchanged elastometrically. Clinical improvement persisted for at least 4 weeks after treatment was discontinued. The silicone gel sheeting was well tolerated, except for occasional transient rashes or superficial maceration--both of which resolved promptly when treatment was withdrawn. There was no histologic evidence of inflammation or foreign body reaction suggesting that silicone had entered the treated tissues. We conclude that this simple method of treating hypertrophic scar is efficacious, even in relatively chronic cases. The mechanism of action of silicone gel, which is apparently not related to compression, remains to be determined. PMID- 2529660 TI - [Immunological basis of IgE-mediated allergies. A contribution to the understanding of new therapy forms]. AB - The pathogenesis of IgE mediated allergies has been elucidated. We are dealing primarily with diseases of the T lymphocyte system. Due to overactivity of so called T helper lymphocytes there is pathologic overproduction of IgE and inflammatory cells, mast cells and eosinophils, after antigen contact. Following exposure to nutrient and inhalant allergens in the presence of adjuvants, this atopic constitution manifests itself clinically. Mast cell mediators (e.g. histamine and leukotrienes) elicit immediate symptoms at the ports of entrance of allergens (at skin and mucosal surfaces); eosinophil mediators (e.g. platelet activating factor [PAF], eosinophil cationic protein [ECP], and major basic protein [MBP]) are responsible for late symptoms and hyperreactivity. Current antiinflammatory treatment tries to suppress this allergic inflammation (e.g. with cromoglycate and topical steroids). The regulatory immunotherapy of the near future attempts to regulate IgE synthesis by interleukins (e.g. gamma-Interferon) or antagonists of interleukins (e.g. anti-IL-4-antibodies). PMID- 2529661 TI - The inhibitory effect of GR32191, a thromboxane receptor blocking drug, on human platelet aggregation, adhesion and secretion. AB - GR32191, a potent selective thromboxane receptor antagonist, has been shown to inhibit completely prostaglandin endoperoxide and thromboxane A2 (TxA2)-induced platelet aggregation, [14C]-serotonin secretion and beta-thromboglobulin secretion. Deposition of human platelets onto damaged rabbit aorta in vitro is reduced in the presence of GR32191 which appears to inhibit aggregation of platelets but not direct adhesion of platelets to subendothelium. The effects of non-prostanoid platelet activating agents whose mode of action requires the biosynthesis of TxA2 are also inhibited by GR32191. Prostanoids which inhibit platelet function, such as prostacyclin or PGD2, retain their inhibitory properties in the presence of GR32191 which does not inhibit phospholipase A2, prostaglandin cyclooxygenase, thromboxane synthase, 12-lipoxygenase or cAMP phosphodiesterase activity. The inhibitory action of GR32191 on platelet aggregation, mural thrombus formation and platelet protein storage granule secretion suggests that it has potential in treating thrombotic disease in man. PMID- 2529663 TI - The effect of various anticoagulant/antiplatelet mixtures on determination of plasminogen activator inhibitor, platelet proteins and hemostasis parameters. AB - Blood collected in different anticoagulant/antiplatelet agents (ETP, EDTA, citrate, citrate/citric acid pH 4.5 and CTAD) was compared with respect to determination of PAI-1 activity and PAI-1 antigen. beta TG and PF4 were analysed as markers of platelet release. Both the middle layer and the remaining layer of the plasma were studied. Moreover vWF:Ag, FVII:Ag, ECLT, t-PA:Ag, t-PA activity, APTT, VIII:C and VII:C were assayed in blood collected in citrate and CTAD. PAI-1 activity showed the same level in all citrate based anticoagulants and ETP and no increase was found in blood standing for 2 hours at room temperature. On the contrary quick handling was most important for determination of PAI-1 antigen. In tubes anticoagulated with citrate no significant increase was found if the sample was prepared within 1 hour. EDTA was not suitable as anticoagulant mixture. Tubes containing the antiplatelet mixture CTAD could be used for determination of PAI activity, PAI antigen, vWF:Ag, FVII:Ag, t-PA activity and APTT. For measurement of PAI-1 antigen quick handling of blood anticoagulated with antiplatelet mixtures are preferable, and plasma treated in that manner could also be used to assay some hemostasis parameters. PMID- 2529662 TI - Functional and immunologic protein S in normal pregnant women and in full-term newborns. AB - Total and free protein S antigen and C4b-binding protein (C4bp) were determined by rocket immuno-electrophoresis, and functional protein S was assayed by a coagulation method, throughout pregnancy and normal puerperium and in a group of normal full-term newborns (FTN). The functional protein S assay is based on a modification of the APTT, using a mixture of test sample, protein S deficient plasma, activated protein C, phospholipids and calcium. This protein S functional assay is specific for protein S since the APTT prolongation by normal plasma was abolished by incubation of plasma with monospecific, rabbit anti-protein S IgG. The ratios of functional protein S/free protein S antigen in healthy men (n = 13) and women (n = 14) were 1.0 +/- 0.13 (mean +/- SD) and 1.03 +/- 0.20, respectively. During pregnancy there is a decrease in functional protein S and a progressive decrease in total and free protein S antigen, with a functional/free protein S ratio of 0.75 +/- 0.28 in the third trimester of pregnancy (n = 16). In early puerperium the functional protein S level was lower than the free protein S antigen level (ratio about 0.5). In the FTN group, the free protein S level was 39% and protein S activity was about 70% that of adults, with a functional/free protein S ratio of 1.84 +/- 0.31. C4bp values were 23.5 +/- 10.3% in the FTN group, and crossed immunoelectrophoresis showed that in this group the major protein S peak corresponded to free protein S.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2529664 TI - Report on the diagnosis and treatment of homozygous protein C deficiency. Report of the Working Party on Homozygous Protein C Deficiency of the ICTH-Subcommittee on Protein C and Protein S. PMID- 2529665 TI - Platelet thromboxane A2/endoperoxide (TXA2/PGH2) receptors in type I diabetes mellitus. PMID- 2529666 TI - Transthoracic needle aspiration of the lung in respiratory infections. AB - Transthoracic needle aspiration of the lung in guinea pigs with experimental pseudomonas pneumonia was evaluated. The number of bacteria in aspirates correlated well with that of bacteria in the lungs which showed diffuse pneumonia (10(7) inoculum group). The number of deaths of experimental animals increased together with an increase of the times of aspiration. This procedure was also investigated in 16 patients of pneumonia and 17 patients of pulmonary abscess. The isolation rate of pathogen from pneumonia was 31.3% and that from pulmonary abscess 58.8%. A higher isolation rate was obtained with purulent aspirates. Predominantly anaerobic bacteria were isolated, and in pulmonary abscess usually in association with other bacteria. This method could be applied with success, for determining responsible pathogens. Even the normal oropharyngeal flora such as alpha-Streptococcus could be identified as pathogens. The complication rate was relatively low (6 out of 33 patients, 18.2%) including hemoptysis as a major one and pneumothorax or bloody sputum as minor ones. Transthoracic needle aspiration was reevaluated in experimental and clinical materials and was found to be an excellent and safe method for determining the responsible pathogen of respiratory infection. PMID- 2529667 TI - [Physician praise in the province. Comments on 2 ancient epitaphs from Trikka (Thessalia)]. AB - With respect to the meaning of a physician for life and health of men, the Iliad says about the physician pi omicron lambda lambda omega nu alpha nu tau alpha xi iota omicron sigma alpha lambda lambda omega nu and reports upon two famous physicians: Machaon and Podaleirios from Thessaly, sons of Asclepios. Like these the qualified physician proves to be a man of knowledge and a man of arts-not only in antiquity--, for he has one passion: science as incorporated in the tau epsilon chi nu eta of medicine. Very often inscriptions--above all grave epigrams -with their great tradition from various times and localities provide many good examples of daily life including valuable references to the practice, ethics and social situation of physicians. As examples of the social status and of the praise of physicians, two grave poems from ancient Trikka in Thessaly are discussed here: one from the first century B. C., the other from the third century A. D. These two poems are documents of the medical history of Thessaly; a region important because of the tradition of the cult of Asclepios and the life and work of late Hippocrates. PMID- 2529668 TI - [A historico-social approach to the medical scientific theory of Ludwik Fleck (1896-1961)]. AB - Ludwik Fleck has shown in his discussion of the logical empirism of the Vienna Circle that his concept of reality presupposes an unproven logico-structural correspondence between the world and the formal logical structure of language, i.e. between reality and thought. Upon this questionable foundation he proceeds to develop his own position concerning the theory of medical science. He claims that scientific knowledge is at no time exempt from cultural, historical and social conditions, of which scientific knowledge itself is a function. These conditions find expression in the style of thought of a particular epoch ("Denkstil") as well as in the interaction of the participating scientists ("Denkkollektiv"). Flecks merits for having explicated the conditionality of the process of scientific knowledge over against positivistic thought have been honourably elaborated in many studies. The present study offers an analysis of the manner in which the Fleck position attempts to serve as an explanation of change in the content and style of thought in history. It will be made clear that these changes and developments can only be explained as the result of the interaction and competition among the collectives of scientists and thinkers. Fleck deprives his socio-historical position of its logical foundation by radicalizing these conditions in such a manner that they become fundamental determinants of human thought generally and for the individual scientist particularly. As a consequence, from the perspective in which the thought of the individual is thus determined, he can neither establish a convincing theory for changes in thought in history nor for the human relations obtaining within the collective of scientists and thinkers. PMID- 2529669 TI - [Martin Luther's seizure disorder]. AB - Martin Luther's diseases are well documented, because he used to discuss them freely in his letters. There is also a wealth of evidence through reports by his friends. Most of his diseases were common and well known to the contemporary physicians, who accordingly interpreted them correctly: bladder stones, chronic constipation, hemorrhoids. Luther's death obviously was due to a coronary thrombosis. During the last 19 years of his life, in addition to these "natural diseases", Luther also suffered from recurring attacks of a peculiar symptomatology. Luther himself and his friends considered these seizures to be no "natural disease", but Satan punching his flesh, and he compared them to St. Paul's disease (2. Cor. 12). The first of these attacks occurred on July 6, 1527, when Luther was 43 years of age. It began with a roaring tinnitus in his left ear, which increased dramatically and seemed to occupy the left half of his head. Then a state of sickness and collapse followed, however, consciousness was retained throughout the whole period. After a night's rest all the symptoms had subsided, except the tinnitus, which, from that day on, continued for all the following years in varying intensity. Similar attacks with increase of the tinnitus and vertigo as the leading symptoms, seized Luther at irregular intervals and distressed him extremely. Former investigators of Luther's diseases interpreted these attacks as manifestations of a psychiatric disorder and a chronic inflammatory disease of the middle ear. The present detailed study reveals that it was a typical case of Meniere's disease of the left ear manifesting itself more than 330 years before Meniere's classical observation. PMID- 2529670 TI - [From the 'canon' of Avicenna to the illustration of the 'wound healer']. AB - The different genres in which Latin medical texts are preserved, may become integrated in German medical literature into a new specific kind of text, the 'arzneibuch'. Depending on which parts of Ortolf von Baierland's 'arzneibuch' are preserved, different literary genres result in further tradition. When little Ortolf text survives in large compilations, as often is the case, it becomes difficult, if not impossible, to identify them as belonging to a certain genre. Although medieval nomenclature is useful, it does not define the different genres, it merely classifies the texts according to their contents. PMID- 2529671 TI - [The letter of Johannes Oporinus on Paracelsus]. AB - Not very long after the death of Paracelsus, Johannes Oporinus, once assistant to Hohenheim, wrote a letter full of invectives against his late master. Although four copies of this letter are known up to now, there is still much uncertainty left about the date (1555, 1565), the address (Johann Weyer, Reiner Solenander, Weyer and Solenander), and the text, because the original letter has not been found yet. In our study a new found copy--the eldest yet known--of the letter is presented, which is included in an 'Oratio de Theophrasto Paracelso' held by Gervasius Marstaller in Jena (1570). According to Marstaller he had received his copy of the (undated) letter by Reiner Solenander. In an appendix the letter is edited after Ms. 991. University Library Erlangen. PMID- 2529672 TI - [Comments on the structure of some tracts of 'Corpus Hippocraticum']. AB - A number of medical treatises belonging to the so-called Hippocratic Collection feature text units of equal or similar length (or doubled). These passages are particularly obvious at the end of treatises (as appendices) or in continuous series, where one such passage follows upon the other. The length coincides approximately with the length of the 'writing tablet' (jotter) mentioned in 'Epidemics' VI 8.7 and with the ancient Greek standard unit of measure applied for the payment of scribes, namely 100 epic verses. Although the passages do not provide a clue to the 'Hippocratic question', they possibly betray the ancient physicians' procedure of organizing scribal work. Any such modern explanation of the quantitative phenomenon is, however, hypothetical, all the more so as the philological observation of the phenomenon is not unproblematical. PMID- 2529673 TI - [Hering, Vintschgau and the problem of Purkinje's succession]. AB - The problem of Jan Evangelista Purkinje's succession will be presented according to the results of archival research. The Ministery of Cult and Education in Vienna, and especially Karl Rokitansky, who was the adviser for medical education, in 1867 created a new professorship and Institute for Physiology, beside Purkinje and his Institute. Maximilian Vintschgau was to assist the world famous 80 years old Purkinje but was not permitted to teach the whole field of physiology and to examine students. The fact that the professors of the Prague Medical Faculty in 1868 started to remove the restrictions for Vintschgau with the argument of academic freedom and in 1869 tried to keep the second institute for the future, is not yet mentioned in the literature. Discussions about the problems of the Czech language and its use in physiological lectures were scarcely mentioned by the Ministery: if one day there should be a Czech-speaking lecturer, the problem would be solved. Unfortunately Purkinje had no genuine pupil in Prague, and after his death, Vintschgau was provisional director of the Institute for half a year. In this situation Rokitansky decided that there should only be one institute for physiology in Prague. The Medical Faculty wanted to have Hermann Helmholtz to succeed Purkinje, but Helmholtz refused to come. Ewald Hering, who was nominated in the second place by the Faculty, accepted the call. Vintschgau had only rank four, third was Conrad Eckhard from Giessen. The Ministery in Vienna, however, made a special decision: The Medical Faculty of Innsbruck was founded in 1869, and there was not professor for physiology at the beginning of 1870. The candidates of the Insbruck Medical Faculty were neglected in favour of Vintschgau, who was considered to be a trustworthy Austrian patriot. Hering and Vintschgau became professors on March 6, 1870, and Hering started his work in Prague in a new institute in the "Wenzelsbad". PMID- 2529674 TI - [Interrelations of Buddhism and classical Indian medicine]. AB - In ancient India, two branches of knowledge are concerned with human suffering, trying to theoretically explain as well as to practically overcome its reasons: (practical) philosophy and medicine. In spite of being concerned with the same problem, both rest on different premises: philosophy on highly abstract insights into the core of the phenomenal world, the atman, which is a priori free from suffering; and classical (- classical as opposed to modern, westernized -) medicine on concrete daily manifestations of suffering. Both kinds of occupation with human suffering implicitly follow a common method, the abstract, i.e. structural investigation and expression of which we call methodology. This methodology being explicitly stated in medical texts, we speak of medical methodology, regardless of the (most probably inanswerable) question in what branch of knowledge this methodology has been originally developed. The article is divided into two parts. In the first part, the Buddha's denial of a transcendent atman is investigated with regard to its implications concerning the problem of human suffering. Not being able to accept the solution proposed in the Upanisads, the Buddha conceives a new explanation and solution of the problem. For that purpose, he explicitly reiterates the medical methodology, thus attaining a fourfold progressive method which consists in: (1) experience of suffering, (2) diagnosis, (3) prognosis, (4) solution. In account of this method's isomorphy to the medical method, Buddhism was regarded as a medical discipline. The second part of the article is focussed on the third step of the methodology, the prognosis. According to medical texts, the physician has to decide in advance whether an illness is curable or not; in the latter case, he is advised to refrain from treating it. Although this position might be justified from a pragmatic point of view, it remains unsatisfying when considered with regard to a categorial system of ethics as it is expounded by Buddhism. But Buddhism does not only challenge this attitude, it enhances a solution which integrates prognosis and universal, categorial ethics. The final paragraph of the article shows how this solution influences later medical texts. PMID- 2529675 TI - Properties of platelet concentrates prepared after extended whole blood holding time. AB - Extension of the maximum holding time for whole blood collected into a CPD-ADSOL system from 6 to 8 hours at ambient temperature under conditions that cause the temperature of the blood to decrease to 20 to 24 degrees C would facilitate the preparation of platelet concentrates (PCs). In this study, the properties of CPD PCs prepared and stored for 5 days in PL-732 containers after various initial holding periods were assessed in two laboratories, designated Laboratory A and Laboratory B. Laboratory A found higher platelet-rich plasma (PRP) volumes (276 +/- 25 vs. 249 +/- 19 mL) and platelet yields (76 +/- 18 vs. 66 +/- 18 x 10(9) platelets) with 8-hour holds (n = 10) than with 1- to 2-hour holds (n = 10), although only the difference in PRP volumes was significant (p less than 0.05). No significant difference was observed in autologous in vivo recovery (54 +/- 11 vs. 47 +/- 9%) or survival (167 +/- 37 vs. 170 +/- 25 hrs), as calculated by gamma function using 111In as radiolabel. Laboratory B also found higher PRP volumes (304 +/- 31 vs. 279 +/- 37 mL) and platelet yields with 8-hour holds (n = 12) than with a 6-hour holds (n = 10) (88 +/- 26 vs. 77 +/- 27 x 10(9) platelets). No significant differences were found in morphology score, the extent of release of beta-thromboglobulin, the discharge of lactate dehydrogenase, or hypotonic shock response.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2529676 TI - Protein targeting to the yeast vacuole. AB - Mutational and gene fusion studies have identified localization signals that target proteins to the yeast lysosome-like vacuole. Genetic analyses have also identified groups of genes (VPS and PEP) whose products are required for recognition of these signals, and sorting and transport of proteins to the vacuole. One of the components involved in protein sorting has been shown to be the vacuolar H+-ATPase, presumably via its role in vacuolar acidification. PMID- 2529677 TI - Application of laser Doppler velocimetry to lung transplantation. AB - The relationship between healing of a bronchial anastomosis and regional blood flow was studied in adult mongrel dogs after allotransplantation of the left lung. Animals were divided into the following three groups according to the immunosuppressive regimen. Group A: no immunosuppressive treatment (n = 7); Group B: azathioprine (5 mg/kg/day) and prednisolone (2 mg/kg/day) (n = 4); Group C: cyclosporine (20 mg/kg/day) (n = 4). The mucosal blood flow was examined serially after transplantation with laser Doppler velocimetry (LDV) at the tracheal bifurcation of the recipient (1st LDV) and at the bifurcation of the upper lobe bronchus of the transplanted lung (2nd LDV). The LDV values were expressed as a ratio to the preoperative values at the same site. Healing of the bronchial anastomosis was also assessed macroscopically with a fiberoptic bronchoscope and microscopically. The 2nd LDV value of the animals in group A at 13 days after transplantation remained low (32.9 +/- 27.6%). The 2nd LDV value in group B, although not significantly different from group A, had recovered to the preoperative level by that time (93.7 +/- 23.4%). By contrast, the 2nd LDV value in group C remained significantly higher than that in group A (119.9 +/- 23.0%, P less than 0.05). The 1st and 2nd LDV values were reduced in animals having infection at the bronchial anastomosis, even those in groups B and C. Bronchial mucosal blood flow appeared to be affected by infection and rejection of the transplanted lung, and to correlate closely with the healing of the bronchial anastomosis. This LDV method is useful to evaluate bronchial mucosal blood flow in experimental, and possibly in clinical, fields. PMID- 2529678 TI - Transplant renal artery stenosis. AB - A group of 31 patients with transplant renal artery stenoses was identified among 2002 patients undergoing renal transplantation at the University of Minnesota; 29 of the stenoses were at the anastomosis. A total of 43 procedures were performed to correct the stenosis. Angioplasty was performed 25 times, with 3 patients cured and 2 patients improved; 20 procedures resulted in a poor result (3) or a failure (17). The failures were usually due to recurrent stenosis (7 patients) or to arterial injury that resulted in graft loss (4 patients) or successful emergency surgery to save the transplant (3 cases). Surgical repair of the stenosis was performed 18 times. No grafts were lost and 13 patients were cured or improved. These data suggest that angioplasty for anastomotic stenosis yields poor results and that a surgical repair is probably warranted. All 7 patients who had a poor results or failed a technically successful intervention did not have a rise in creatinine secondary to captopril or had a systolic pressure gradient of less than 60 mmHg across the anastomosis. These data also suggest that patients without physiological evidence of renal artery stenosis may not have improvement in their hypertension following repair. PMID- 2529679 TI - Coagulation changes following hepatic revascularization during liver transplantation. AB - The coagulation changes during liver transplantation have been studied in 14 selected patients. Blood usage in all cases was limited to 8.5 liters, and the preoperative coagulation results were only minimally deranged. Bleeding during the operative procedure was easily managed in all cases. Nonetheless, even in this selected group of "low risk" patients, we have demonstrated that during the anhepatic phase and particularly following hepatic revascularization there is activation of both coagulation and fibrinolysis. These findings imply that if bleeding occurs following revascularization, in addition to the use of replacement blood products, treatment should be directed at reducing the consumptive coagulopathy and inhibiting fibrinolysis. We suggest as a first step antithrombin supplementation to maintain activity above 70%, and an antifibrinolytic agent, such as aprotonin, should be considered as adjuncts to therapy at revascularization. PMID- 2529680 TI - Failure of in vitro assays to predict accurately the existence of neonatally induced H-2 tolerance. AB - Tolerogen-specific alloreactivity, in the form of mixed lymphocyte responses and cell mediated lympholysis, was measured in vitro using lymphocytes from mice that received neonatal inoculations of H-2 semiallogeneic hematopoietic cells. It was found that depletion of specific alloreactivity, as detected by these assays, was discernable within the thymus glands within 24 to 48 hr of injection. Reduced in vitro alloreactivity was also apparent among spleen cells obtained from neonatally injected mice that had matured immunologically (8 weeks of life). In mice that accepted their test skin allografts (in vivo evidence of tolerance), tolerogen-specific activity was essentially undetectable in vitro. Unexpectedly, markedly attenuated MLR and CML activity was the characteristic finding in neonatally injected mice that rejected their test grafts (in vivo evidence of lack of tolerance). Thus, in vitro assays failed to be predictive of the in vivo tolerant state. These results indicate that clonal reduction of tolerogen reactive cells is an expected and persistent consequence of the injection of tolerance conferring inocula into neonatal mice. Moreover, we believe that the state of tolerance is maintained in adult tolerant mice by mechanisms that cannot easily be studied or predicted by the results of in vitro assays. PMID- 2529681 TI - B cell-induced tolerance to class II MHC antigens in the chicken. AB - Transplantation of cells from the bursa of Fabricius reconstitutes the B cell system of chemically bursectomized chickens. Even allogeneic bursa cells can restore the recipient's B cell system and induce tolerance to donor major histocompatibility complex antigens, but the chimeras cannot mount a T-dependent antibody response. In order to study the mechanisms of tolerance to class II MHC (B-L) antigens, we transplanted class II-incompatible bursa cells from 4-day-old donors into cyclophosphamide-treated recipients of the same age. Donor and host cells carried different allelic products of a genetically polymorphic B cell alloantigen (Bu-1), allowing us to detect cellular chimerism using monoclonal antibodies and immunofluorescence. The B cell-chimeric chickens were tested for tolerance by skin grafting, graft-versus-host splenomegaly assay, and mixed lymphocyte reaction. Specific unresponsiveness to donor MHC antigens was observed in all three tests. When spleen cells from chickens tolerant of donor class II antigens were transferred into irradiated secondary recipients of the same strain, several of the secondary recipients accepted primary donor-type skin grafts. Most secondary recipients were, however, reactive in the GVH assay and MLR. Depletion of chimeric B cells before spleen cell transfer impaired the transferability of tolerance to class II disparity. Altogether, our results indicate that tolerance to class II antigens can be induced with B cells. They suggest that at least two different mechanisms maintain the unresponsiveness in B cell-chimeric chickens. PMID- 2529682 TI - Correlation between atrial natriuretic peptide levels and cardiac filling pressures in renal transplant recipients. PMID- 2529683 TI - An abattoir survey of the prevalence of gastro-intestinal helminths and Stephanurus dentatus in pigs in Belize. AB - In an abattoir survey in Belize 137 pigs were examined for gastro-intestinal helminths and Stephanurus dentatus. Hyostrongylus rubidus, Physocephalus sexalatus, Globocephalus species and Trichostrongylus colubriformis were recorded for the first time. Ascarops strongylina, Ascaris suum, Macracanthorynchus hirudinaceus, Strongyloides ransomi, Trichuris suis, Oesophagostomum species and S. dentatus were also found. Oesophagostomum species (45%) and S. dentatus (42%) were the most prevalent. The prevalence of infection with different species was compared between pigs of different origin, breed and management. Differences were apparently due to management; most species were more common in poorly managed pigs. M. hirudinaceus and S. dentatus were used as "markers" to indicate poor management. The usual methods of faecal egg counting were found to be unreliable for the diagnosis of M. hirudinaceus infection. PMID- 2529684 TI - [Kniest's disease with urinary excretion of acid mucopolysaccharides]. PMID- 2529685 TI - [Treatment of postoperative eventration of the abdominal wall; value of a Mersilene prosthesis: (apropos of 132 cases)]. PMID- 2529686 TI - [Laparoscopic sterilization. Late sequelae of endocoagulation and bipolar electrocoagulation]. AB - A randomized investigation of bipolar electrocoagulation (BE) and endocoagulation (EK) was undertaken. The material was examined two years after the intervention with the object of revealing possible late complications. No significant differences were found between the two techniques. In the entire material, 97.4% were satisfied with the intervention performed and 1.3% had regretted sterilization. In approximately 40% pain of one sort or another related to the abdomen/genitalia and/or to menstruation occurred. The distribution among the groups was lower than in other materials. In 40% (EK) and 60% (BE) changes in menstrual bleeding occurred while 40% in both of the groups had developed one or other form of menopausal symptoms. In the BE-group, two women had intrauterine pregnancies as compared with no pregnancies in the EK-group. PMID- 2529687 TI - [Surgical gynecologic laparoscopy. A description of instruments and a pelvis model]. AB - A model pelvis for practising laparoscopic surgical skills is mentioned and a programme of training exercises is proposed. The technique and material for laparoscopic haemostasis are reviewed together with the relevant surgical instrumentarium. Possible indications are suggested. PMID- 2529688 TI - Molecular mechanisms of defense against oxygen lack. AB - Evidence has been accumulating over the last several years suggesting that suppression of oxidative metabolism without concomitant glycolytic activation and the maintenance of cell membrane electrochemical gradients are central and minimal provisions for protecting tissues against oxygen lack. This evidence for diving vertebrates is reviewed and evaluated. It is concluded that the model explains long-term anoxia and hypoxia tolerance of aquatic lower vertebrates. Whereas this strategy, which is dominated by metabolic suppression capacities, may also be utilized by large, long-duration divers such as Weddell seals, it is unlikely to play a significant role in smaller and faster swimming marine mammals, where the energy demands of exercise greatly exceed the energy savings achievable by switching down metabolic rates of hypoperfused tissues. PMID- 2529689 TI - [Syndromic involvements of the body as the cause of blindness and poor sight in schoolchildren at the boarding schools for blind and vision-impaired children in Uzbekistan]. PMID- 2529690 TI - [Prevalence of sinusitis in the population of Uzbek S.S.R. (based on Andizhan Region)]. PMID- 2529691 TI - [Organization of services for children with congenital cleft palate and lip and ways to improve them]. PMID- 2529692 TI - [Organization of the outpatient referral service for patients with disorders of cardiac rhythm and conductivity requiring surgical treatment]. AB - Under analysis were results of the outpatient aid to patients in the center of surgery during 5 years. Every year the consultative and ambulatory aid was given to 1200 patients. A conclusion was made that organization of the city consultative-diagnostic center for patients requiring surgical treatment of arrhythmia with a special staff and equipment for performing electrophysiological and other investigations, organization of the zone consultation units in large polyclinics for electrophysiological investigations will improve the quality and efficiency of treatment of patients with complex disorders of the heart rhythm and conduction. PMID- 2529693 TI - [Day-care hospital in a polyclinic]. PMID- 2529694 TI - [Errors in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis at the admitting department of a surgical hospital]. PMID- 2529695 TI - [Problems of closure of two-passage colostomy]. PMID- 2529696 TI - [Problems and possibilities of ambulatory surgery]. PMID- 2529697 TI - Gastrointestinal nematode infections of goats in a sub-tropical and humid zone of India. AB - Twelve hundred and twenty-eight goats (Capra hircus L.) from a sub-tropical and humid zone of India were examined for gastrointestinal nematodes. The species encountered in the region were: Haemonchus contortus, Bunostomum trigonocephalum, Oesophagostomum columbianum, Trichuris globulosa, O. aspersum, and T. ovis. The overall infection rate was 86.8%. Among various species found, H. contortus emerged as the most prevalent, although B. trigonocephalum and O. columbianum were also significantly in evidence. The seasonal fluctuation in infection was assessed by monitoring the faecal egg count of 1638 goats slaughtered during the 1-year period. The maximum values for the prevalence and overall mean eggs g-1 of faeces (EPG) were observed after the heavy rainfall season and remained at a relatively high level from July to December. H. contortus and O. columbianum appear to be of major importance as parasites in the goats of this climatic zone; the role of climatic factors in their prevalence is discussed. PMID- 2529698 TI - Increased establishment of lungworms (Dictyocaulus viviparus) in calves after previous infections with gastrointestinal nematodes (Ostertagia ostertagi and Cooperia oncophora). AB - The influence of a priming infection with gastrointestinal nematodes on the subsequent establishment of lungworms was studied. Repeated inoculations of calves with Ostertagia ostertagi and Cooperia oncophora during 3, 5 or 7 weeks resulted in an establishment of lungworms that was 191% of the establishment found in naive controls. The higher take was associated with a higher faecal output of lungworm larvae and with lower weight gains of calves. The effect was not significantly influenced by the duration of the primary infections or by the actual presence or absence of worms in the gastrointestinal tract. PMID- 2529699 TI - Responses of immunoglobulin-secreting cells in the skin of pigs during Sarcoptes scabiei infestation. AB - Investigations using immunofluorescence and immunoperoxidase techniques revealed a gradual, but marked, increase in the numbers of immunoglobulin-secreting cells in the skin of pigs during the development of lesions of sarcoptic mange. This was followed by a marked decrease as the lesions regressed. The rise and fall in numbers of these immunoglobulin-secreting cells were observed in both newborn and older animals as they developed signs of cutaneous disease. IgG-secreting cells were the major immunoglobulin-containing cells, followed by IgM- and then IgA containing cells in the skin of newborn animals. In older pigs, IgM-secreting cells were most prevalent, followed by IgG- and IgA-secreting cells. In multiple infestations, immunoglobulin-secreting cells in the dermis showed very little increase in numbers following the second infestation. Third, fourth and fifth infestations produced little or no increase. PMID- 2529700 TI - Genetic variation and microevolution of dengue 2 virus in Southeast Asia. AB - Dengue 2 (DEN 2) virus strains collected from dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) patients and Aedes aegypti mosquitoes in Thailand, Burma, and Vietnam over a 25 year period have been analyzed by computer assisted T1-RNase-resistant oligonucleotide fingerprinting. Fifty-seven DEN 2 virus strains of the Thailand topotype were separated into four major clusters by phylogenetic analysis of 97 unique oligonucleotides identified in a common well-resolved region of the fingerprints. Similarities in the 57 fingerprints indicated that DEN 2 virus of a single, continually evolving genetic population has been involved in endemic transmission of the disease. Virus isolates from DHF cases and mosquitoes are genetically very similar, indicating that different genetic topotypes are not selectively the cause of severe DEN disease in Thailand. Microevolution of the DEN 2 virus genome from 1962-1986 was gradual with detectable changes in the pattern of oligonucleotides through time. Segregation of the DEN 2 virus fingerprints into the three decades (1960s, 1970s, and 1980s) revealed the rate of genetic change to be one consensus oligonucleotide per year. Based on average association coefficient (Sab) values between the consensus fingerprints for each decade, the similarity between the consensus fingerprints decreased by 1.4% per year. Genetic variation during each of the three decades was found to be essentially the same (0.866 +/- 0.053). Constancy in the microevolutionary rate and genetic variability suggests that a balance of genetic drift and natural selection acting on the viral population did not significantly change throughout the 25-year period. PMID- 2529701 TI - [The immunological mechanism of the modulation of IgE antibody formation during microwave irradiation of the thymus]. AB - Contrary to bone marrow exposure, microwave therapy of the thymus (80 mW/cm2) in induction sensitization results in inhibition of the production of IgE-antibodies to staphylococcus Cowan. The process, studied in experiment, rested on microwave induction of the function of IgE-antibody formation of T suppressors. PMID- 2529702 TI - [Changes in the interrelationships between the autonomic nervous and cardiovascular systems during different weather and heliogeophysical conditions in patients with myocardial infarct and hypertension]. AB - The author attributes the possibility of a substantial cardiovascular damage (complications, myocardial infarctions, fatal accidents) in the population of hypertensive and myocardial infarction patients to a combination of the adverse factors of unstable weather brought in by a magnetic storm and those of emotional stress. PMID- 2529703 TI - [Automated analysis of the body functional indices in the rehabilitation of ischemic heart disease patients at a sanatorium]. PMID- 2529704 TI - [Changes in the cerebral hemodynamics of patients with vibration-induced disease undergoing sanatorium-health resort treatment]. PMID- 2529705 TI - [Relationship between the character of pathological changes in the esophageal mucosa and deficiency of several vitamins in a population with high incidence of esophageal cancer]. AB - A comparative study of the esophageal mucosa versus vitamin status in the adult male population of Muinak District of the Karakalpak ASSR, characterized by high incidence of esophageal cancer, established a significantly high frequency of chronic esophagitis. The differential evaluation of different pathologies of the esophageal mucosa suggested a link between catarrhal and erosive esophagitis and vitamin B2 deficiency and atrophic esophagitis and vitamin A deficit. PMID- 2529706 TI - In vitro and in vivo comparison of platelet concentrates collected by automated versus manual apheresis. AB - Platelet concentrates collected by continuous flow automated apheresis (Fenwal CS 3000) were compared with those collected by manual apheresis to determine whether the prolonged centrifugation and vigorous resuspension affected platelet viability and in vitro function. Paired autologous reinfusion studies (111Indium) of 5 normal donors showed no significant differences in the mean percent recoveries (50.8 +/- 7.0% vs 53.8 +/- 4.0%) or survivals (174 +/- 23 h vs 188 +/- 10 h) for platelets collected by manual versus automated apheresis. Platelets collected by automated apheresis had a significantly higher level of beta thromboglobulin release, but there were no significant differences between platelets collected by the two methods in regard to other in vitro parameters (ATP levels, LDH released, hypotonic shock response) believed to reflect platelet activation, injury, and malfunction. These results suggest that only slight activation of platelets takes place during automated apheresis. PMID- 2529707 TI - [Comment on "References for prevention of formaldehyde-induced occupational dermatoses in the public health and social field" and development of the morbidity of formaldehyde contact eczema in East Germany since inception of the recommendations]. PMID- 2529708 TI - [Model antigens and their significance for occupational dermatology]. AB - By means of epicutaneous tests we studied the contact hypersensitivity to DNP amino acids in individuals sensitized to dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB). We found a high incidence of positive skin responses to DNP-glycine, di-DNP-L-cystine, and DNP-L-alpha-alanine, but only in some cases DNP-beta-alanine induced skin reactivity. The results are discussed both in connection with the influence of varying molecular sizes and chemical structure on the immunological reactivity and the possibility to develop a beta-alanine containing protective ointment against protein-reactive haptens. PMID- 2529709 TI - [The significance of vascular surgery treatment of complications following percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of the lower extremities]. AB - In 147 patients suffering from arterial occlusive disease of the lower extremities 162 PTAs of the iliac, femoral and popliteal arteries were performed. Thirteen complications occurred in 12 patients, while surgical intervention was necessary in seven cases (4.3%). Hematoma at the site of the arterial puncture were the most frequent complications, requiring acute surgical intervention (n = 3). In two patients, acute vascular occlusion after PTA required bypass operation and thrombendarteriectomy, respectively. In one patient, presenting with an iliac stenosis, PTA was performed using a transaxillar approach and was complicated by an axillar hematoma due to the ruptur of the arteria subscapularis. Furthermore, one patient with an extended hematoma of the abdominal wall required surgical intervention. The results presented indicate that PTA of the lower extremities for treatment of arterial occlusive disease is a procedure with low risk. Complications, which require acute operative therapy, can be treated mostly successful by small surgical interventions. PMID- 2529710 TI - [Optimization of surgical tooth preservation using a fully ready-made post implant construction system for endodontic implantation]. AB - By individual cast constructions necessary for endodontic implantations the cold formed post material (pure titanium/implant steel) has to be heat-treated by recasting (Sipal as construction material). Therewith are connected structure changes with distinct worsening of the material properties. By means of the potentiodynamic anodic polarization it can be proved that the silver-palladium alloy is the component with the highest susceptibility to corrosion. A suitable alternative to the individual cast construction is a fully ready-made implant construction system made from pure titanium which can solve the problems of bond, corrosion and strength. PMID- 2529711 TI - [The open bite--morphology and therapeutic consequences]. AB - With cephalometric measurements we investigated the morphology of the malocclusion "Open bite" from adults. The main of abnormality is the divergence of the jaw bases and the compensatory growth of alveolar bone in vertical direction. Under consideration of the best time for beginning of the treatment we give advice for the etiologically orientated therapy. PMID- 2529712 TI - [Application of the 6-day subrenal capsule assay for sensitivity testing of antineoplastic chemotherapy in oral mucosa carcinoma]. AB - Tissues from squamous cell carcinomas of the oral cavity of 20 patients were transplanted beneath the capsule of the kidney of normal immunocompetent mice (SRCA). The xenografts of all tumors of the control group of animals without chemotherapy show an increasing tumor mass following a 6-day-test-period using a method of measurement given by Bogden et al. (1978). There were different changes of tumor diameters following the application of various antineoplastic drugs. Tumor proliferation however is not reason for these changes. There are reactions of graft's rejection which play an important part in the measured data. The only interpretation of the diameters of the xenografts using the 6-day-SRCA in normal immunocompetent mice cannot be recommended as a criterion in this predictive test. PMID- 2529713 TI - [The cryodevitalization of the mandible in animal experiments]. AB - The mandible of minipigs may be devitalized cryosurgically. With the used cryotechnical method deep temperatures down to -131 degrees C and freezing speeds of 62 degrees C/min can be reached. The bone scintiscanning proved suitable method for establishing the progress of the revitalisation. PMID- 2529714 TI - [Bonding strength of adhesive resins with non-precious metal alloys in relation to conditioning methods]. AB - The tensile strength of adhesive metal bonds of the alloys Gisadent KCM degrees, KCM 83 degrees and NCA degrees with the adhesive materials Evicrol degrees, Spofacryl degrees and ABC-Cement degrees has been determined in dependence on the conditioning methods sandblasting, electrolytic etching and Silicoater degrees treatment. The Silicoater degrees treatment was found to be the most successful conditioning method independent on the alloy and the used adhesives. After electrolytic etching increased bond strength values are to be expected particularly with Gisadent NCA degrees. Independent on the used alloy and the conditioning method Spofacryl degrees shows the best adhesive properties of the tested adhesive materials. PMID- 2529715 TI - [Scanning electron microscopic studies of the para-odontoblast region of juvenile permanent teeth]. AB - 40 erupted premolar teeth from 9-14 year old patients requiring orthodontic treatment, were prepared for a study of the dentin-predentin-pulpal area with the scanning electron microscope. The odontoblast process has been found in all specimen extending through the predentin, inner dentin and middle layer of dentin. In the coronal pulp the odontoblast cell bodies were arranged closely together with granulated surfaces, surrounded by fibrillar structures and membrane junctions. As a rule a lot of spherical aggregates of crystals were present between the odontoblasts and the predentin surface. PMID- 2529717 TI - [Determination of the level of antibacterial salivary proteins in human dental plaque]. PMID- 2529716 TI - [Gradients of inorganic components in enamel and dentin of deciduous teeth. I. Lead concentration in children with variable environmental conditions]. AB - The concentration of lead in four layers of dental hard tissues was analysed in 108 deciduous teeth of children from nine places of the G.D.R.. The result was a typical gradient from enamel to dentine. The average concentration of lead corresponds with that of other industrial countries. Although regional differences were found equal exposition of lead for both urban and rural areas can be assumed. PMID- 2529718 TI - [Diagnosis of radiogenic bony jaw lesions. 2. results of comparative histological and biochemical studies of the jaw bones]. PMID- 2529719 TI - [Surgical therapy of severe acne conglobata]. AB - Thirty-six patients were treated for severe acne conglobata. Wide and deep excision of the affected area should be followed by wound closure, primary or secondary, depending on the body region involved. PMID- 2529720 TI - [Immunological factors in the evolution of the epidemic process in meningococcal infection]. AB - The results obtained in 1987 in the study of the immunostructure of the population of Yaroslavl with respect to meningococcal polysaccharides, groups, A, B, C, and lipopolysaccharide are presented in comparison with earlier results obtained in 1976. The regulating role of the immunological factor in the evolution of the epidemic process of meningococcal infection has been confirmed. The level of antibodies to meningococcal polysaccharides, groups A and B, has been found to reflect the intensity of the circulation of the infective agent among the population. The comparison of the results of investigations carried out in 1976 and 1987 has revealed the essential role of the lipopolysaccharide antigen in the formation of the postinfection immunity of the population to meningococcal infection, irrespective of the group of the infective agent. PMID- 2529721 TI - [Typhus infection (Brill's disease) in the environment of a large city]. AB - The data on the epidemiological analysis of 675 cases of infection of the typhus nature, detected in Leningrad in 1974-1986, are presented. The seasonal morbidity curve, the age structure of patients, the character of the clinical course of the disease and other data gave a reason for the diagnosis of Brill's disease. The comparison of the relative data on morbidity rates in typhus at different periods of the current century was made. PMID- 2529722 TI - [Functional properties of T-lymphocytes in patients with multiple sclerosis]. AB - The cellular immunity was investigated in 218 patients with disseminated sclerosis at its exacerbation and remission, and in its two course types. Considerable quantitative and functional changes were detected in the T-cell system. The T-lymphocyte count did not correlated with their proliferative activity, and reduction in their suppressive activity was not correlated with their helper action. Cellular immunity was especially suppressed in activation of the disease and its progredient course. The authors conclude that the results of some immunological tests can provide additional diagnostic criteria for the disease detection and assessment of its activity, severity and prognosis. PMID- 2529723 TI - Internal hernias. Case report. AB - Three cases of intestinal obstruction due to internal herniation are presented. Symptoms, signs and the existance of spontaneously reduceable internal hernias are discussed. A 50% mortality emphasizes the importance of early surgical intervention. PMID- 2529724 TI - Studies of atopic patch tests. AB - 35 patients were patch-tested for 72 h with house dust mite, timothy- and birch pollen, Cladosporium herbarum and hen's egg white allergens, prepared in a cream in concentrations up to 1,000 times the concentration used for skin prick testing. 6 patients developed a total of 10 positive reactions. All the strong positive patch-test reactions occurred in patients with a strong positive skin prick test to the same allergen. Immunohistochemical studies of biopsied positive patch-test reactions demonstrated a mononuclear cell-infiltrate in the upper part of dermis, consisting mainly of T-cells, with a slight predominance of T-helper cells as compared to T-suppressor cells, and about 10% CD1 positive cells. No significant responses were obtained in peripheral blood mononuclear cell-cultures stimulated with the various allergens. A positive patch-test reaction to birch pollen was successfully transferred passively to a non-allergic-recipient, suggesting that the positive reaction may depend upon sensitizing factor(s) in the serum. PMID- 2529725 TI - In vitro IgE-secretion in atopic eczema: influence of allergens and mitogens and role of CD8 T cell subpopulation. AB - In cultures of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from 23 atopic patients and 14 controls the influence of mitogens, allergens and CD8 suppressor T lymphocytes on the in vitro IgE response was studied. The in vitro IgE levels in lymphocyte culture supernatants reached a plateau after 6 days of culture, whereby low levels of IgE could be reproducibly measured down to 0.5 ng/ml. The spontaneous in vitro IgE secretion from PBMC of atopic eczema patients was elevated in comparison to the control group and showed a direct correlation (r = 0.72) to the serum IgE levels. Pokeweed mitogen rather suppressed the in vitro IgE production. After removal of the CD8 subpopulation of T lymphocytes by using an indirect erythrocytes rosetting technique we found increased in vitro levels pointing to a role of IgE regulating T suppressor subpopulations. PMID- 2529726 TI - In vitro generation of IFN-gamma in relationship to in vivo concentration of IgE and IgG subclasses and Fc epsilon Rl/CD23 positive circulating lymphocytes in patients with severe atopic dermatitis (AD). AB - In fifteen patients with severe atopic dermatitis (AD) and ten healthy controls we investigated the in vitro generation of IFN-gamma and analysed the number of Fc epsilon RL/CD23 (low affinity Fc receptor for IgE) positive lymphocytes. We found a significantly impaired capacity to secrete IFN-gamma after PHA stimulation compared to controls in a significant proportion of patients. Serum IgG4 levels in patients were higher compared to controls. A significant portion of lymphocytes bearing the low affinity Fc receptor for IgE (CD23) was observed with the moab Tu1 in patients. Lymphocytes from healthy donors were completely negative or less than 2% positive for Tu1. Despite small numbers of patients a significant correlation was found between IFN-gamma generation in vitro and IgE serum concentration in patients, whereas the IFN-gamma generation and IgG4 concentration were negatively correlated in the patient group. The number of Fc epsilon RL/CD23 positive lymphocytes in patients was positive correlated with the serum IgG4 and IgE concentration and negative correlated with IFN-gamma generation in vitro. Our data suggest that a possible dysregulation of IFN-gamma, Interleukin 4 or other lymphokine production may be related to increased IgE and IgG4 production. PMID- 2529727 TI - Atopic dermatitis in the first six months of life. AB - 1,476/2,320 of our cases of atopic dermatitis (AD) start in the first six months of life. The diagnosis is usually easy, but at this age it is sometimes more difficult, mainly because of lack of or rare evidence of scratching, but also because of the brief clinical history that does not allow observation of the characteristic chronic and relapsing course. Moreover, the major atopic disorders asthma, rhinitis-usually appears later in the natural history of atopic subjects. From a differential diagnosis point of view, AD is the most definite dermatological disorder at this age. Other not well defined conditions occurring in the first six months of life are usually referred to as infantile seborrheic dermatitis, a name that has been used for at least four different disorders: cradle cap, cradle cap with involvement of inguinal, axillary and retroauricular folds, napkin psoriasis and Leiner's erythroderma. From a clinical point of view, AD in the first months of life is characterized by the prevalence of exudating lesions; moreover, the lack of or the rare evidence of scratching allows us to observe isolated vesicular lesions that are found with difficulty in the further course of the disease. PMID- 2529728 TI - Langerhans cells and atopic dermatitis. PMID- 2529729 TI - Infusion of atrial natriuretic hormone in DOCA/salt and spontaneously hypertensive rats. AB - The effects of a 6-day infusion of atrial natriuretic hormone (ANH) on blood pressure and urinary sodium excretion were determined in conscious DOCA/salt and spontaneously hypertensive rats. The DOCA/salt rats were randomly divided into two groups after 4 weeks and either infused by osmotic minipump with 32.5 pmol/h of ANH in 0.1% gelatin vehicle or sham operated with emplacement of a blind cannula. Thirteen-week-old spontaneously hypertensive rats were studied in a similar fashion. The baseline systolic blood pressure prior to the infusion was 176 +/- 7 mmHg (x +/- SEM) in the ANH group and 169 +/- 5 mmHg in the sham group of DOCA/salt animals. The ANH infusion in the DOCA/salt animals dropped their blood pressure to 160 +/- 10 mmHg (p less than 0.01) compared to that in the sham controls which continued to rise to 200 +/- 7 mmHg. The blood pressure response to ANH infusion in the spontaneously hypertensive rats was slightly greater, with a blood pressure of 192 +/- 5 mmHg in the sham group and 132 +/- 3 mmHg in the ANH-infused animals. ANH infusion produces a qualitatively similar blood pressure response in the DOCA/salt rat as well as the other hypertensive models. This response is relatively less on a quantitative basis than that observed in the spontaneously hypertensive rats and is not related to changes in sodium balance or volume contraction. PMID- 2529730 TI - Physiological levels of immunoreactive ANH-like peptides in human follicular fluid. AB - The concentrations of immunoreactive C-terminal (ANH-(99-126)) and N-terminal (ANH-(1-98] portions of pro-ANH were measured in follicular fluid and plasma samples from 9 young women undergoing in vitro fertilization. ANH-(99-126) and ANH-(1-98)-like immunoreactivity levels in plasma were 6.0-25.4 (mean 12.2 pmol/l and 184-427 (mean 300) pmol/l, respectively, whereas the corresponding levels in follicular fluid were 3.8-8.0 (mean 4.9) pmol/l and 169-385 (mean 262) pmol/l. The concentrations of both ANH-like peptides were consistently lower (p less than 0.01) in the follicular fluid than in the matched plasma samples, but within the variation found in plasma controls. It is concluded that ANH-like peptides in the follicular fluid, whether secreted locally or derived from circulating ANH, might play a physiological role in the biosynthesis of ovarian steroid hormones or follicular maturation and fluid dynamics. PMID- 2529731 TI - Intravenous narcotics for premedication in outpatient anaesthesia. AB - One hundred adult female patients scheduled for outpatient laparoscopic procedures were studied. Each patient received intravenous premedication about 30 min before induction of anaesthesia. The premedications were given in a double blind random order and were either a placebo, morphine (0.04 mg/kg), meperidine (0.35 mg/kg), fentanyl (0.75 microgram/kg) or sufentanil (0.15 microgram/kg). All patients received a standard anaesthetic regimen. Transient light-headedness was common following narcotic injections. Overall, sufentanil was superior to the placebo and to other narcotics in its ability to reduce preoperative anxiety and to provide more satisfactory induction, maintenance and recovery from anaesthesia. The incidence of postoperative nausea, vomiting and other side effects was not higher and discharge times were not longer after sufentanil compared to the placebo group. Complete recovery as assessed by telephone interview 24-48 h after the operation revealed no difference between the sufentanil and the other groups. The results of this study indicate that intravenous short-acting narcotics like fentanyl or sufentanil should be considered as an alternative premedicant for anxious patients who are scheduled for outpatient surgery. PMID- 2529732 TI - The effects of bupivacaine and pipecoloxylidide on platelet function in vitro. AB - The influence of bupivacaine and its major metabolite, pipecoloxylidide, on human platelet function was studied in vitro. Significant inhibition of ADP and collagen-induced platelet aggregation occurred only with concentrations of bupivacaine above 10 micrograms.ml-1. This concentration (10-25 micrograms.ml-1) is much higher than would be expected in routine clinical use of bupivacaine for epidural analgesia. The inhibition of platelet aggregation was associated with a significant decrease in beta-thromboglobulin secretion. In contrast, pipecoloxylidide had no effect on platelet aggregation or the beta thromboglobulin release. We conclude that the previously reported 30-min time-lag between the maximal plasma concentration of bupivacaine and the inhibition of platelet aggregation is unlikely to be due to a metabolism of bupivacaine to pipecoloxylidide. PMID- 2529733 TI - The effects of local anesthetics on maternal and neonatal platelet function. AB - The effects of bupivacaine (B), lidocaine (L) and 2-chloroprocaine (C) on maternal (M) and neonatal (N) platelet function were studied using in vitro beta thromboglobulin (beta-tg) release (radioimmunoassay), and in vitro platelet aggregation. Aggregation produced by adenosine diphosphate (ADP), epinephrine and collagen was measured in the presence of 1, 10, 100, 500 or 1000 micrograms/ml concentrations of B, L or C. In addition, spontaneous in vivo beta-tg release was measured in M and N blood. In vivo beta-tg level in M and N blood was approximately double that in non-pregnant subjects (p less than 0.025). In vitro beta-tg release in M and N samples was inhibited only at concentrations exceeding 1000 micrograms/ml, and the inhibition was less in M and N samples than in non pregnant subjects. None of the anesthetics inhibited aggregation of M or N platelets at 1 and 10 micrograms/ml. Only concentrations of 500 micrograms/ml or greater consistently inhibited platelet aggregation produced by the three aggregants in M and N samples, and L was the least effective of the three agents. Neonatal platelet aggregation was affected more by local anesthetics than was maternal aggregation. It is concluded that plasma local anesthetic concentrations achieved during normal maternal epidural anesthesia do not affect M or N platelet aggregation or beta-tg release. PMID- 2529734 TI - Dorsal column stimulation: its application in pain therapy. AB - Clinical report about 45 patients treated with dorsal column stimulation. PMID- 2529735 TI - Prolonged degeneration of muscle spindles in the masseter muscle after treatment of developing mice with the local anesthetic lidocaine hydrochloride. AB - The effect of lidocaine-HCl on muscle spindles in the masseter muscle of developing mice was investigated. Repeated injections of mice with anesthetic in the short term decreased the diameters of primary endings, intrafusal muscle fibers and outer capsules in the equatorial regions of muscle spindles, and caused a drop in the succinic dehydrogenase activity in intrafusal muscle fibers of the muscle spindles. In addition, the diameters did not recover to the control value even after about 10 weeks following cessation of anesthetic treatment. Thus, the present results suggest that repeated use of lidocaine-HCl in developing animals may cause dysfunction of the skeletal muscles. PMID- 2529736 TI - Immune responses to HB vaccine in siblings born to HB carrier mothers. PMID- 2529737 TI - Sarcoplasmic reticulum of human skeletal muscle: age-related changes and effect of training. AB - The effect of ageing on human skeletal muscle was investigated using needle biopsies from young and aged subjects and from aged subjects trained with different activity patterns. Histochemical staining for myofibrillar ATPase of ageing m. vastus lateralis demonstrated an unchanged fibre type distribution but a selective atrophy of type IIa and type IIb fibres. Analysis of myosin heavy chain (MHC) composition showed that type I MHC increased with ageing (P less than 0.05). The relative content of the MHC isoforms correlated with the relative area of the respective fibre types. Sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) proteins were investigated in muscle extracts by electrophoretic and immunoblotting techniques. When compared to a young control group (28 +/- 0.1 years old, n = 7) blots of post-myofibrillar supernatant proteins probed with polyclonal antibodies to the rabbit fast SR Ca-ATPase, a marker of extrajunctional SR, showed that the content of Ca-ATPase was significantly lower (P less than 0.05) in the old control group (68 +/- 0.5 years old, n = 8). On the other hand the content of calsequestrin (CS), the major intraluminal protein of SR terminal cisternae (TC), and of the 350-kDa ryanodine-binding protein, which is localized in the junctional regions of TC, did not show a concomitant decrease. These results suggest that ageing differentially affects extrajunctional and junctional SR of human skeletal muscle. These age-related changes were not observed within a group of old strength-trained subjects. PMID- 2529738 TI - Mental health of octogenarians in Iceland. An epidemiological study. AB - The purpose of this work was to study the prevalence and incidence of mental disorders in octogenarians in Iceland and the relation of these variables to several sociodemographic variables. Beside this a comparison between two different methods of collecting clinical data on mental health were done. In chapter 2 recent research on the epidemiology of mental disorders in the very old population is reviewed. A comparison between different studies is very difficult but most studies agree on the prevalence of severe dementia. In chapter 3 the material and methods of the study is described. The sample consists of all Icelanders borne in the years of 1895-1897. Two methods of data collection are described, the indirect method where information from general practitioners, hospital files and other sources are used to make a mental diagnosis, and the Geriatric Mental States Schedule, which is a semi-structured interview. In chapter 4 demography of the cohort is described and in chapter 5 the reliability of the Icelandic translation of the Geriatric Mental States Schedule is discussed and the reliability of the Icelandic translation of G.M.S. is within acceptable limits. In chapter 6 two methods of making mental diagnosis in the elderly are compared. In chapter 7 the prevalence of dementia at the age of 81.5 and 87 years is discussed. There is a considerable increase in prevalence of severe dementia, or from 7.8% at the age of 81.5 years to 15.1% at the age of 87 years. The incidence of dementia in the age period 74-85 years is discussed in chapter 8. At the age of 84 years the incidence is about one case per 100 per year, but at the age of 85 the incidence is about 4 cases per 100 per year. In chapter 9 the mortality of dementia in the age period from 74-85 years is discussed. The standard mortality ratio is 2.46 for males and 2.29 for females in this age period. In chapter 10 and 11 the prevalence, incidence and mortality of affective disorders are discussed. The prevalence of affective disorders does not change significantly with age from 81.5-87 years, being 8-9%, while the mortality of affective disorders in the age period of 74-85 years is similar to that in the general population. The incidence does not change significantly from 74-85 years being about 0.6 case per 100 per year for males and about 1.1 cases per 100 per year for females.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2529739 TI - Serotonin depletion with P-chlorophenylalanine in the cat: effects on carbachol induced defensive behavior and regional brain amine content. AB - Serotonin (5-HT) depletion with p-chlorophenylalanine (p-CPA) (3 X 150 mg/kg/12 h i.p.) in the cat resulted in an increase in the carbachol-induced growing response 36 h after the last injection. Besides important depletion of 5-HT in the anterior and posterior hypothalamus, midbrain and amygdala, and 5 hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) in the anterior and posterior hypothalamus and midbrain, dopamine (DA) level significantly increased in the amygdala and posterior hypothalamus with tendency to increase in the anterior hypothalamus and midbrain. No changes in noradrenaline (NA) level were observed. The results indicate that the carbachol-induced defensive behavior significantly increased as a consequence of reduction in the 5-HT system activity. The changes in DA content indicate that there are interactions between the 5-HT/DA systems. PMID- 2529740 TI - A T suppressor cell cytokine regulates murine arthritis and T lymphocyte stimulation. AB - Experimental immunotherapy of murine collagen-induced arthritis can be achieved by administration of specific T suppressor cell hybridomas. The present study examines the immunoregulation noted in this experimental immunotherapy by describing the immunomodulatory effects of a cytokine produced by a suppressor T cell line, T101N. The inhibition of the activation of splenic lymphocytes in response to T cell mitogens and the erythema and edema associated with arthritis were assayed. Mice given T101N ascites showed reduced inflammation (p less than 0.05). Lymphocytes derived from naive mice and cultured in the presence of T101N culture supernatant showed reduced response to concanavalin A. Therefore, this form of experimental immunotherapy of arthritis may be associated with cytokines secreted from T suppressor cells which modulate T cell activation. PMID- 2529741 TI - In vitro effects of the antiallergy compound, CI-949, on interleukin-1 and 2 release, and on mitogen and alloantigen responsiveness. AB - CI-949 (5-methoxy-3-(1-methylethoxy)-1-phenyl-N-1H-tetrazol-5-yl-1H -indole- 2 carboxamide, L-arginine salt), an antiallergy compound, was found to be a weak inhibitor of IL-1 release from LPS-stimulated murine peritoneal exudate cells and human peripheral blood leukocytes, with IC50S of 186.2 and 267.9 microM, respectively. CI-949 was also a poor inhibitor of release of IL-2 from Con A stimulated rat splenocytes (37% inhibition at 100 microM). CI-949 did produce concentration-related inhibition of the response of human lymphocytes to PHA and Con A (IC50S = 44.7 and 21.5 microM, respectively) as well as in the mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) (IC50 = 16.8 microM). The clinical significance of these latter findings is unknown at present. PMID- 2529742 TI - Inhibition of autoimmune disease and the generation of suppressor cells by spirogermanium: a biological profile similar to total lymphoid irradiation. AB - Oral administration of spirogermanium (Sg), inhibits the development of immune mediated hindpaw inflammation in the rat model of adjuvant arthritis (AA) and DTH responses to PPD (30 mg/kg/day). A similar dosing protocol inhibits hindleg paralysis in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). The spleens of these animals and those of normal rats contain radiation resistant (2000 R) non specific suppressor cells (SC) which bear some similarity to those generated following total lymphoid irradiation (TLI). These cells do not appear to be mature T cells, they are partially adherent to plastic, sephadex G10 and nylon wool, insensitive to indomethacin and are enriched in a 1.07 g/ml fraction of a Percoll density gradient. PMID- 2529743 TI - [Biochemical and immunological properties of EEP 32 kd protein]. AB - EDTA-extractable protein (EEP) is a major extrinsic protein of lens membrane. EEP is composed of two major polypeptides on SDS-PAGE with apparent molecular weights of 32 kilodaltons (kd) and 34 kd. Recently it has been reported that the 34 kd protein of the EEP cross-reacted with the antibody prepared against lipocortin, an inhibitor of phospholipase A2. We have purified and characterized the 32 kd protein of the EEP (EEP 32). Crude EEP of bovine lens was applied to a Q Sepharose column and eluted with a linear gradient system composed of 0-0.7 M NaCl. The EEP 32 was discreted at salt concentrations of approximately 0.1-0.25 M (EEP 32-A) and 0.35-0.4 M (EEP 32-B). Both EEP 32-A and EEP 32-B interact with phospholipid and F-actin in a Ca2+-dependent manner as lipocortin. Furthermore, the EEP 32-A, a major component of the EEP 32 purified by hydroxyapatite chromatography and gel filtration, inhibited phospholipase A2 activity more than lipocortin. On Western blot analysis, the 32 kd lipocortin-like protein of human placenta showed cross-reactivity to EEP 32-B, but not EEP 32-A. These results suggest that EEP 32 contains two lipocortin-like proteins differing in antigenicity and isoelectric points. PMID- 2529744 TI - Assessment of multi-handicapped deaf students. PMID- 2529745 TI - Back pain pitfalls. AB - Pain along the vertebral column is such a frequent complaint that it is easy to overlook unusual etiologies or serious complications. In addition to the common traumatic and degenerative causes of back pain, infectious, rheumatic and neoplastic conditions must also be considered. Nonmusculoskeletal disorders may sometimes be mistaken for lumbosacral strain. A systematic and sympathetic approach to the diagnosis may uncover uncommon pathologies. PMID- 2529746 TI - Nonacute thrombolytic therapy: an adjunct to coronary angioplasty in patients with large intravascular thrombi. AB - The presence of intravascular thrombus can make coronary angioplasty difficult or impossible to perform. To determine if thrombolytic agents could lyse large, nonacute thrombi, we retrospectively analyzed the angiograms of all 14 patients with unstable angina and large intravascular thrombi (greater than 2 cm in length) who were treated with thrombolytic agents at The Johns Hopkins Hospital between October 1987 and April 1989. Twelve patients were treated with intracoronary streptokinase, and two with intravenous tissue plasminogen activator. Coronary arteriography was repeated immediately after treatment and a mean of 1.6 +/- 0.3 days later. The degree of thrombolysis and change in distal vessel perfusion was evaluated. Thrombolysis was graded as considerable if there was greater than 75% resolution of apparent thrombus, and as complete if no stenosis or only a discrete residual stenosis was apparent. Fifty-seven percent of patients ultimately achieved considerable or complete thrombolysis and were able to undergo successful angioplasty. Patients achieving considerable or complete thrombolysis had a 28 +/- 7% increase in luminal diameter and demonstrated normalization of initially absent distal perfusion, except for the one patient who had normal distal flow prior to treatment. A maximal thrombolytic effect was evident only at the time of "delayed" angiography in all patients who responded to treatment and underwent both follow-up arteriograms. We conclude that thrombolytic agents can effectively lyse large, nonacute intravascular thrombi, thereby facilitating coronary angioplasty. A full thrombolytic effect does not occur for hours to days after drug administration, and may not become evident unless delayed angiography is performed. PMID- 2529747 TI - Dissociation of ST segment elevation and regional wall motion with open-artery, intracoronary Fluosol. AB - Intracoronary infusion of oxygenated Fluosol during percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty has been shown to reduce chest pain and preserve contractile function. In spite of this evidence for reduced severity of myocardial ischemia, ST elevation is frequently observed on the electrocardiogram. To determine if Fluosol produces ST segment elevation by a mechanism other than myocardial ischemia, closed-chest dogs underwent three interventions: (1) an infusion of oxygenated Fluosol into the unoccluded left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery; (2) an identical infusion of unoxygenated Ringer's lactate; and (3) a transient occlusion of the LAD coronary artery. Open-artery infusions were chosen to minimize ischemia by permitting antegrade coronary blood flow. ST segments were monitored continuously and contrast left ventriculography was performed to assess regional systolic function. Coronary occlusion for 1 minute resulted in significant ST segment elevation from baseline (0.8 +/- 0.2 to 3.2 +/- 0.6 mm, p less than 0.05) and marked depression in regional ejection fraction (45 +/- 7% to -3 +/- 4%, p less than 0.05). Infusion of Fluosol produced a similar degree of ST segment elevation (0.9 +/- 0.3 to 2.8 +/- 0.4 mm, p less than 0.05), but no change in regional ejection fraction. Ringer's lactate infusion also resulted in ST segment elevation associated with preservation of regional contractility. Because regional systolic function (a sensitive indicator of regional ischemia) was preserved and an open-artery infusion was used, it is concluded that intracoronary infusion of Fluosol causes ST segment elevation by a mechanism other than myocardial ischemia.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2529748 TI - Severity of arrhythmias and extent of hypertrophy in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. AB - To evaluate the relationship between the extent of left ventricular hypertrophy and ventricular or atrial arrhythmias, 77 patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy underwent two-dimensional echocardiography and 24-hour Holter monitoring. Antiarrhythmic treatment was discontinued before the study. Hypertrophy was septal in 33 patients, "extensive" (i.e., involving the septum and free wall) in 38 patients, and predominantly apical in six patients. Lown grade I and II ventricular arrhythmias were detected in 37% of patients, grade III in 21%, and grade IV in 29%. Atrial extrasystoles were seen in 52% of patients and chronic atrial fibrillation in 13%. More serious ventricular arrhythmias (Lown grades III and IV) occurred significantly more frequently in patients with extensive than in those with only septal hypertrophy (22/38 vs 11/33; p less than 0.001); similarly, chronic atrial fibrillation occurred more commonly in those with extensive hypertrophy (9/38 vs 1/33; p less than 0.01). During a mean follow-up period of 2.6 years, three patients died. All had a pattern of extensive hypertrophy. Two of them had ventricular tachycardia and the third had chronic atrial fibrillation. Results of this study suggest that an echocardiographic finding of extensive hypertrophy represents a useful marker for detecting patients at increased risk for serious ventricular and atrial arrhythmias. PMID- 2529749 TI - Assessment of the daily blood pressure load as a determinant of cardiac function in patients with mild-to-moderate hypertension. AB - The distribution of blood pressure (BP) values over the day and night was assessed in a group of 30 never previously treated patients with mild-to-moderate essential hypertension via 24-hour ambulatory BP monitoring. Elevated BP values during the awake hours (greater than 140/90 mm Hg) and sleeping hours (greater than 120/80 mm Hg) were used to calculate the total percentage of abnormal BP values (load) in each patient. The relationship between BP load and several indexes of hypertensive cardiac target organ involvement was compared to the relationships among office (casual), 24-hour average BP values, and cardiac indexes. Casual systolic and diastolic BP values did not correlate with left ventricular mass index, left atrial index, or peak left ventricular filling rate. Both 24-hour average BP and systolic and diastolic BP loads correlated with all indexes of cardiac target organ involvement. The BP loads were related to left ventricular mass index and left atrial index more strongly than were the mean 24 hour BP values; however, they were equally correlated for peak left ventricular filling rate. If greater than 40% of the ambulatory BP values were elevated, the likelihood of increased mass or decreased filling was greater than 61%, whereas if less than 40% of the BP values were elevated, the incidence of an abnormal cardiac test result decreased to less than 17%. These data show that the percentage of elevated BP values that includes both the awake and asleep periods is predictive of cardiac target organ involvement in patients with mild-to moderate hypertension. Patients with mild hypertension who have more than 40% abnormal BP values should strongly be considered for antihypertensive therapy. PMID- 2529750 TI - Prevention of myocardial ischemia during coronary angioplasty: a simple new method for distal antegrade arterial blood perfusion. PMID- 2529752 TI - Coronary angioplasty for unstable angina. PMID- 2529751 TI - Angioscopic study of the antithrombotic effect of a new selective thromboxane A2 synthetase inhibitor, CV-4151, on experimental arterial thrombi. PMID- 2529754 TI - Differential sensitivity of the RV6:RV5 voltage ratio by pathogenesis of left ventricular hypertrophy and diagnostic cutpoint. PMID- 2529753 TI - Importance of overweight in studies of left ventricular hypertrophy and diastolic function in mild systemic hypertension. AB - The relations of Metropolitan Life Insurance Co. Relative Weight values and blood pressure (BP) to minimal forearm vascular resistance, ventricular septal and posterior wall thickness, left ventricular (LV) mass index and cardiac diastolic function were assessed in 31 men, 37 +/- 2 (mean +/- standard error of the mean) years of age. Eighteen patients with untreated mild hypertension were compared with 13 normotensive control subjects of similar age and weight. The hypertensives had higher clinic (137 +/- 3/96 +/- 2 vs 121 +/- 4/81 +/- 3 mm Hg, p less than 0.001/less than 0.001) and home (p less than 0.001) BP. Despite higher BP, the hypertensives did not have significantly greater values than normotensives, respectively, for minimal forearm vascular resistance (2.20 +/- 0.12 vs 2.04 +/- 0.11 U), ventricular septal (9.9 +/- 0.5 vs 10.2 +/- 0.3 mm) and posterior wall thickness (10.2 +/- 0.4 vs 10.0 +/- 0.3 mm) or LV mass index (106 +/- 6 vs 107 +/- 6 g/m2). Furthermore, diastolic peak filling rate, an index of LV diastolic function, was virtually identical in the 2 groups (2.71 +/- 0.14 vs 2.69 +/- 0.07 liters/s, difference not significant). Correlates of peak filling rate included relative weight (r = -0.62, p less than 0.001), posterior wall thickness (r = -0.51, p less than 0.01) and age (r = -0.45, p less than 0.05). Relative weight also correlated significantly with posterior wall (r = 0.59, p less than 0.005), ventricular septal (r = 0.47, p less than 0.005) and LV mass index (r = 0.38, p less than 0.05).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2529755 TI - Diltiazem and left ventricular mass regression. PMID- 2529756 TI - Pulmonary extraction of atrial natriuretic factor in humans. PMID- 2529758 TI - Inefficacy of daily single bolus dose atrial natriuretic factor in chronic congestive heart failure. PMID- 2529757 TI - Influence of temporal smoothing on quantitation of left ventricular function by gated blood pool scintigraphy. AB - Frequently, indexes of systolic and diastolic left ventricular (LV) function obtained from radionuclide angiography are computed after the LV time-activity curve has been temporally smoothed. This smoothing process may introduce important systematic errors into the analysis. To assess this potential effect, high temporal resolution time-activity curves (20 ms/point) were obtained in 113 normal subjects, 175 patients with coronary artery disease and 171 patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The curves were then subjected to 0-, 3-, 5-, 7- and 9-point temporal smoothing. In each group, increased smoothing progressively and consistently underestimated ejection fraction by up to 5% (p less than 0.001) and peak ejection rate by up to 14% (p less than 0.001). A greater effect on peak filling rate was observed: 5-point and 9-point smoothing reduced peak filling rate by 10% and 23% in normal subjects, 3% and 10% in patients with coronary artery disease and 7% and 15%, respectively, in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (all p less than 0.001). These errors were compounded further when the same data obtained at lower temporal resolution (40 ms/point) were analyzed: 5-point and 9-point smoothing resulted in underestimation of peak filling rate by 20% and 46% in normal subjects, 13% and 43% in coronary artery disease and 16% and 34% in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The underestimation was not uniform, and its magnitude varied considerably among individuals in each of the 3 groups. Thus, smoothing of LV time-activity curves may result in significant systematic errors in computation of indexes of LV systolic and diastolic function, especially in data with poor temporal resolution. These concepts apply to other imaging methods, such as magnetic resonance imaging and cine-computed tomography, that assess LV function from the LV volume curve. Although ejection fraction is affected only mildly by these errors, both peak filling rate and peak ejection rate may be severely underestimated. PMID- 2529759 TI - Evaluation of menogaril in patients with metastatic sarcomas and no prior chemotherapy exposure. AB - Menogaril, an anthracycline analog of nogalamycin, is reported to have greater cytotoxicity against certain malignant cell lines and less cardiotoxicity in rabbits than doxorubicin. To evaluate the possible therapeutic benefit of this drug, we studied menogaril in 21 patients with metastatic sarcomas who had received no prior chemotherapy. Menogaril was administered intravenously over 1 h every 3-4 weeks at a dose of 200 mg/m2 in 500 ml of 5% dextrose in water. One patient experienced a partial regression of pulmonary metastases from malignant fibrous histiocytoma of bone (response rate of 5% with 95% confidence interval of 0.1-23.8%). Two additional patients experienced minor reductions in tumor size. The remaining 18 patients had no improvement from menogaril. The median time to disease progression was 7 weeks in all patients treated. Toxicity was acceptable, consisting primarily of leukopenia with 12 patients (57%) and 19 patients (90%) developing nadir leukocyte counts less than 2000 and 3000/microL, respectively. Cardiac toxicity was not encountered; however, only seven patients received greater than or equal to 3 cycles of menogaril. We conclude that menogaril does not appear to be useful at this dose and schedule in the treatment of metastatic sarcomas despite the use of near maximal doses in patients with no prior chemotherapy exposure. PMID- 2529760 TI - Lipocortin-1 immunoreactivity in the normal human central nervous system and lesions with astrocytosis. AB - The authors have examined the cellular distribution of lipocortin-1 (L-1) in the normal and diseased central nervous system (CNS) using the peroxidase antiperoxidase (PAP) technique with a polyclonal antibody specific for L-1. L-1 immunoreactivity was evaluated in the frontal cortex, parahippocampal gyrus/lateral ventricle, cerebellum, medulla, and spinal cord from 27 normal human fetuses, neonates, and adults without neurologic disease and in these same regions and representative lesions from 35 patients with diseases producing varying degrees of astrocytosis, including intraparenchymal hemorrhage; embolic, thrombotic, or traumatic infarctions; and Alzheimer's disease (AD). L-1 immunoreactivity was identified in ependymocytes, choroid plexus epithelia, and scattered subependymal astrocytes throughout the ventricular system from 15 weeks gestation through 82 years of age in both normal and diseased CNSs. L-1 immunoreactivity was also detected in reactive astrocytes and many macrophages surrounding each infarction regardless of site or pathogenesis and in scattered reactive astrocytes in people with AD or SDAT. The limited distribution of L-1 in CNS is consistent with the low amounts of L-1 found in brain and suggests that L 1 may participate in the normal function of ependymocytes and the pathophysiology of reactive astrocytosis. PMID- 2529761 TI - Usefulness of total 12-lead QRS voltage compared with other criteria for determining left ventricular hypertrophy in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: analysis of 57 patients studied at necropsy. AB - PURPOSE: The sensitivity of electrocardiographic indicators of left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy is known to be rather poor. To date, no study has undertaken a comparison of the various electrocardiographic criteria for LV hypertrophy among patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HC). In this study, we compared the sensitivity of the total 12-lead QRS amplitude with the sensitivity of certain standard electrocardiographic criteria for LV hypertrophy in necropsy patients with HC. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 57 hearts were studied. The last technically satisfactory electrocardiogram available from each necropsy patient was used. Electrocardiographic criteria employed to diagnose LV hypertrophy included the Sokolow and Lyon index, the Romhilt-Estes voltage criteria, the Romhilt-Estes point score, the ratio of RV6:RV5 greater than 1 proposed by Holt and Spodick, and a method utilizing the sum of the amplitudes of the QRS complexes of all 12 leads. RESULTS: The total 12-lead QRS amplitude ranged from 66 to 339 mm (mean: 197 mm) (10 mm = 1 mV). Using 175 mm as the upper limit of normal, this technique yielded a sensitivity of 53%, which was the highest sensitivity of any criteria tested. The Sokolow-Lyon index had a sensitivity of 39%; the Romhilt-Estes voltage criteria, 37%; the Romhilt-Estes point score system, 49%; and the criterion of RV6 more than RV5, 39%. No correlation was found between total 12-lead QRS voltage and heart weight, LV free wall thickness, LV peak systolic and end-diastolic pressures, or LV outflow tract peak systolic pressure gradient. The 10 patients (18%) with transmural LV scars had significantly lower total 12-lead QRS voltage than did the 48 patients (78%) without such scars (155 mm versus 205 mm, p = 0.02). CONCLUSION: Total 12-lead QRS amplitude more than 175 mm is a useful indicator of LV hypertrophy and, among patients with HC, it is more sensitive than other more commonly employed criteria. PMID- 2529762 TI - Acute lumbosacral epidural abscess after percutaneous transluminal angioplasty. PMID- 2529763 TI - Vasopressin lowers pulmonary artery pressure in hypoxic rats by releasing atrial natriuretic peptide. AB - The authors previously demonstrated that arginine vasopressin (AVP) lowers pulmonary artery pressure in rats with hypoxic pulmonary hypertension by activation of the V1 receptor. The pulmonary depressor effect of AVP in hypoxia adapted rats is not due to its effect on cardiac output. The current study tested two alternative hypotheses: that AVP lowers pulmonary artery pressure in the hypoxia-adapted lung by (1) dilating pulmonary vasculature directly, or (2) releasing atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) from the heart. The first hypothesis was tested by injecting AVP into the pulmonary arteries of isolated, buffer perfused lungs and monitoring pulmonary artery pressure, and by exposing preconstricted pulmonary artery rings to graded doses of AVP and monitoring the tension generated. AVP caused minimal vasodilation in perfused lungs and only a small vasodilator effect in pulmonary artery rings. The second hypothesis was tested by injecting AVP (160 ng/kg) or vehicle intravenously in conscious hypoxia adapted (4 weeks) or air control rats and measuring ANP in arterial blood and atria, and by testing pretreatment with the V1 receptor antagonist d(CH2)5 Tyr(Me)AVP (130 micrograms/kg) on the AVP-induced increase in plasma ANP. AVP produced a 7-fold increase in plasma ANP (209 +/- 33 to 1346 +/- 233 pg/ml; p less than 0.05) in hypoxia-adapted rats and a 5-fold increase in ANP (122 +/- 22 to 573 +/- 174 pg/ml; p less than 0.05) in air controls. ANP release was abolished by pretreatment of both groups with d(CH2)5 Tyr(Me)AVP. The AVP-induced ANP release came mainly from left atrium. These data strongly suggest that the pulmonary depressor effects of AVP in hypoxia-adapted rats is due to augmented V1 receptor-induced release of ANP from left atrium. PMID- 2529764 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide, renin and aldosterone in obstructive lung disease and heart failure. AB - Elevations of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) in congestive heart failure (CHF) and chronic obstructive lung disease (COLD) are presumably due to atrial hypertension, while secondary hyperaldosteronism in these patients is thought to result from diminished renal perfusion. The responsiveness of the ANP and renin (PRA)-aldosterone (PA) systems to acute increases in right atrial pressure has not been studied in these patients, but in normals a reciprocal relationship between ANP with PRA and PA has been shown. The authors monitored venous pressure (VP, reflective of right atrial pressure), ANP, PRA and PA in 15 stable COLD patients, seven stable CHF patients and three normal controls at baseline and after elevation of VP by antishock trousers. Inflation of the trousers resulted in increased VP and ANP (p less than 0.05): control ANP, 84 +/- 17 to 108 +/- 23 pg/ml; COLD ANP, 176 +/- 5 to 200 +/- 7; and CHF ANP, 388 +/- 20 to 499 +/- 37. PRA and PA were not suppressed by increasing ANP levels and the delta ANP/delta VP ratio was similar among groups. No intergroup differences in resting PRA and PA were noted, but PRA was higher (p = 0.007) and PA tended to be higher (p = 0.08) in a sub-group of six edematous patients, as compared with non-edematous patients and controls. These findings: (1) confirm previously reported ANP differences between COLD and CHF; (2) indicate that the ANP system remains responsive to physiologic manipulations in COLD and CHF; and (3) demonstrate that ANP and the PRA-PA axis are not reciprocally related in either group. PMID- 2529765 TI - Immune-complex vasculitis: role of complement and IgG-Fc receptor functions. AB - Vasculitis contributes a major component to the pathogenesis of rheumatic diseases and glomerulonephritis. A common feature of these diseases is the presence of serum immune complexes (IC) which may be deposited in blood vessel walls. The modification of the size and solubility of IC by the classical and alternative complement pathways, and the recent demonstration of the role of cellular complement receptors and IgG-Fc receptors in the handling of IC, now allow a better understanding of the pathogenesis of the severe forms of vasculitis. When complement deficiencies are present, the handling of IC is impaired, and vasculitis results. New blood tests for Factor VIII-related antigen, alkaline ribonuclease, plasma thrombospondin, and anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody correlate with the presence of selected types of vasculitis. In addition, tissue thromboplastin release after application of defined tourniquet pressure can also detect subtle blood vessel injury. These new tests may allow diagnosis without risky organ biopsies. Advances in the diagnosis and treatment of vasculitis will also be discussed. PMID- 2529766 TI - Characterization of an unusual and complex chromosome 21 rearrangement using somatic cell genetics and cloned DNA probes. AB - In a previous case of a newborn infant with typical Down syndrome, chromosome analysis indicated the presence of an unusual and complex translocation of chromosome 21. The patient's cells contained one normal chromosome 21 and a rearranged, F group-sized submetacentric chromosome. This abnormal chromosome appeared to involve duplication of the distal portion of 21q with translocation to the short arm, and a deletion of C-band-positive centromeric heterochromatin. Using linearly ordered cloned DNA probes, we report the detailed molecular examination of this abnormal chromosome, which has been isolated on a hamster background in a hybrid cell line. Both short arm and pericentromeric sequences are present on this chromosome, as well as distal 21q sequences. However, a substantial portion of proximal 21q is deleted. The distal boundary of this deleted section can be pinpointed within the region between two loci (D21S8 and D21S54), a distance of about 5,000 kb. This study illustrates the power of using precisely mapped, linearly ordered DNA probes to characterize this type of rearrangement. In addition, this hybrid cell line can also be used as a member of a mapping panel to map DNA sequences regionally on chromosome 21. PMID- 2529767 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor maternal and fetal concentrations in severe preeclampsia. AB - There is a reduction in intravascular volume in patients with preeclampsia. Since the secretion of atrial natriuretic factor by human atrial myocytes is stimulated by increased intraatrial pressure or atrial distention, we sought to determine whether circulating maternal plasma atrial natriuretic factor concentrations were lower in patients with preeclampsia compared to normal pregnant women. The level of alpha-human atrial natriuretic factor was measured by a specific radioimmunoassay. Maternal venous concentrations of a alpha-human atrial natriuretic factor were higher in patients with severe preeclampsia (116.12 +/- 13.37 pg/ml) than in normal pregnant women (80.30 +/- 4.02 pg/ml). Umbilical artery alpha-human atrial natriuretic factor concentrations were higher in fetuses born to patients with severe preeclampsia (197.68 +/- 29.10 pg/ml) than normal control subjects (118.00 +/- 12.52 pg/ml). Umbilical artery alpha-human atrial natriuretic factor concentrations were higher than umbilical or maternal venous concentrations. In cases of severe preeclampsia, despite the presumed volume changes, maternal atrial natriuretic factor concentrations are higher than in normal pregnant women. The fetus appears to produce its own atrial natriuretic factor. Umbilical artery atrial natriuretic factor concentrations in fetuses born to preeclamptic mothers are higher than those seen in normal control subjects. PMID- 2529768 TI - Fetal blood volume, urine flow, swallowing, and amniotic fluid volume responses to long-term intravascular infusions of saline. AB - The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of a long-term infusion into the fetal circulation on fetal and amniotic fluid dynamics. In 10 chronically catheterized fetal sheep averaging 130 +/- 1 (SE) days' gestation, a balanced, isotonic electrolyte solution (Isolyte S) was infused continuously for 5 days into a fetal vein at a rate of 0, 1, 2, 4, and 0 L/day, respectively. During the infusion, fetal blood volume increased by a maximum of 6.4 +/- 2.0% (p less than 0.001), and the daily swallowing of amniotic fluid doubled (p less than 0.001). Fetal urine flow increased (p less than 0.0001) above preinfusion rates by a volume equal to the infusion rate plus the increase in swallowing, whereas renal excretion of sodium and chloride increased by the amount infused. The increase in the plasma concentration of atrial natriuretic factor (p less than 0.0001) and the decrease in arginine vasopressin (p less than 0.05) were not linearly related to urine flow changes. Amniotic fluid volume increased (p less than 0.0001) by 20% of the infused volume. All values returned to normal on day 5 except amniotic fluid volume, which remained elevated. Estimated allantoic fluid volume at the end of day 5 was 800 ml above normal. Thus it appears that on a long-term basis, the ovine fetus eliminates infused water and electrolytes through its kidneys rather than across the placenta. Although all of the infused volume left the fetus through its kidneys, only 30% of the infused volume remained in the amniotic and allantoic fluid compartments, suggesting transfer to the mother by unknown mechanisms. PMID- 2529769 TI - Peritoneal blood painting: an aid in the diagnosis of endometriosis. AB - Visual identification of endometriosis is important, identification of very subtle manifestations of disease has recently received increased attention. Colorless and other subtle manifestations of peritoneal disease can be seen more easily by painting the peritoneal surface with bloody peritoneal fluid. PMID- 2529771 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide during the menstrual cycle. AB - Plasma atrial natriuretic peptide levels were found to decrease from 82.5 pg/ml in the follicular phase to 55.8 pg/ml in the luteal phase in 10 normal menstruating women. The reduced level of plasma atrial natriuretic peptide could be a compensatory response to the natriuretic effect of the increased plasma progesterone in the luteal phase. PMID- 2529770 TI - Buserelin versus danazol in the treatment of endometriosis-associated infertility. AB - A total of 62 infertile women with a laparoscopic diagnosis of endometriosis were allocated randomly to two treatment groups, one of which (32 patients) received oral danazol 600 micrograms/day and the other (30 patients) received intranasal buserelin 1200 micrograms/day for 6 months. Suppression of serum levels of estradiol was greater with the gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist treatment. Pain symptoms improved markedly during treatment in both groups. At the end of treatment a repeat laparoscopy was performed only in the patients who agreed to it (12 in the buserelin group and 13 in the danazol group), and it did not reveal significant differences in the effects of the two treatments on the endometriotic implants. All of the patients were followed up for at least 12 months, during which pregnancy was attempted. At 18 months the cumulative pregnancy rate was 48% in the patients treated with buserelin and 43% in those treated with danazol. Pain recurrence was observed in about half of the patients in each group 1 year after treatment suspension. The side effects were more frequent and more severe in the danazol-treated patients, whereas those given buserelin generally reported only symptoms of hypoestrogenism. The results of this study suggests that buserelin is at least as effective as danazol in the treatment of endometriosis when the outcome is considered in terms of restored fertility, and its side effects are less severe. PMID- 2529774 TI - Hyperosmolality elevates plasma atrial natriuretic factor in the ovine fetus. AB - This study was designed to explore the effect of hyperosmolality on fetal plasma atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) concentrations in chronically catheterized sheep fetuses averaging 133 days gestation. An isotonic solution of 0.9% NaCl or hypertonic solution of 2.5% NaCl, 13% mannitol, or 7% NaCl was infused intravascularly into the fetuses at 20 ml/kg over 10 min and simultaneously into their mothers. Fetal plasma osmolality changed by -2 +/- 1 (SE) mosmol/kg in the isotonic group and by 16 +/- 2, 20 +/- 4, and 56 +/- 3 mosmol/kg in the 2.5% NaCl, 13% mannitol, and 7% NaCl groups, respectively (P less than 0.00001). Preinfusion fetal ANF levels were similar in all four groups and averaged 145 +/- 7 (SE) pg/ml. With infusion, fetal plasma ANF increased significantly in the isotonic group by 28 +/- 6%. In the 2.5% NaCl and 13% mannitol groups, the increment in plasma ANF was four times, whereas in the 7% NaCl group it was eight times that in the isotonic group (P less than 0.01). Blood volume and venous pressure changes were similar in all groups. In the hypertonic groups, plasma ANF and venous pressure returned to control levels within 1 h after the start of the infusion, whereas plasma osmolalities remained elevated. Thus infusions of hypertonic solutions into the ovine fetus caused much greater increases in plasma ANF concentrations compared with those seen with isotonic infusion. The return of plasma ANF levels to control despite maintained hyperosmolality suggests that hyperosmolality stimulated ANF release either by a direct but transient mechanism or by potentiating the effects of vascular volume expansion. PMID- 2529773 TI - Aldosterone receptors in A6 cells: physicochemical characterization and autoradiographic study. AB - The A6 cell line is derived from the kidney of Xenopus laevis. Aldosterone increases sodium transport across A6 cell epithelia. In the present study, aldosterone binding characteristics were studied in A6 cell cytosol. Both type I (mineralocorticoid) and type II (glucocorticoid) receptors are present in the cytosolic fraction of these cells. Aldosterone and corticosterone had a high affinity for type I sites (Kd = 1.25 and 0.16 nM, respectively) and a lower affinity for type II sites (Kd = 39 and 10 nM, respectively). Testosterone and estradiol did not compete for aldosterone binding. RU 26988, a highly specific glucocorticoid agonist, competed with aldosterone for type II but not for type I sites. Hydrodynamic parameters of both type I and type II corticosterone receptor complexes were identical. Their Stokes radius was approximately 6 nm, as estimated by high-performance size-exclusion chromatography, and their sedimentation coefficient determined by ultracentrifugation on glycerol gradients was approximately 9s. The molecular mass calculated from these parameters was approximately 200 kDa, a value that is very close to the value estimated for nontransformed mineralocorticoid and glucocorticoid receptors of other species. The [3H]aldosterone labeling of intact A6 cells was examined by autohistoradiography. At every concentration tested (2, 20, and 50 nM), all cells were found to be specifically labeled in both cytoplasm and nucleus. At 20 nM, in the presence of an excess of RU 26988, labeling was also detected. At every concentration the labeling data was compatible with a Gaussian distribution, indicating that A6 cells correspond to a homogeneous population with regard to aldosterone binding and that probably both type I and type II sites are present in the same cells. PMID- 2529772 TI - Basement membrane heparan sulfate proteoglycan is the main proteoglycan synthesized by glomerular epithelial cells in culture. AB - The production and distribution of basement membrane-type heparan sulfate proteoglycans (BM HSPG) were investigated in a mouse glomerular epithelial cell line. Confluent cell monolayers were radiolabeled with [35S]sulfate or [35S]cysteine. Proteoglycans were isolated from the medium and cell layers by ion exchange chromatography and their nature determined by enzyme digestion (chondroitinase ABC) or degradative treatment (nitrous acid). It was found that more than 80% of the proteoglycans in both the cell layer and medium were heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPG) based on their susceptibility to nitrous acid degradation. More than half of the HSPG in the cell layer could be precipitated with an antiserum that specifically recognizes BM HSPG; only 10% of those released into the medium were precipitated with this antiserum. When immunoprecipitates of [35S] sulfate-labeled proteoglycans were analyzed by SDS PAGE, the mature proteoglycans ran as a broad band at the top of the gel. When immunoprecipitates of [35S]cysteine-labeled proteoglycans were similarly analyzed, a 250 kd precursor core protein band was seen in addition to the mature proteoglycan. When BM HSPG were localized by immunofluorescence and immunoelectron microscopy (immunoperoxidase), they were found intracellularly in biosynthetic compartments (ER and Golgi cisternae) and extracellularly in deposits of basement membrane-like matrix located beneath and between the cells. These results indicate that l) BM HSPG are the predominant type of proteoglycans made by glomerular epithelial cells in culture; 2) these HSPG are assembled into a loosely organized matrix that is deposited beneath and between the cells; and 3) this cell type produces a higher proportion of BM HSPG than other cultured epithelial cells studied previously. PMID- 2529775 TI - Human variation in skeletal muscle fiber-type proportion and enzyme activities. AB - The purpose of the present study was to describe the extent of the variation in some of the common characteristics of human skeletal muscle. A total of 418 biopsies was obtained from the vastus lateralis muscle of 270 healthy sedentary and 148 physically active individuals of both sexes. The lowest and highest proportion of type I muscle fiber observed were 15 and 85%, respectively. Coefficients of variation (CV) reached approximately 30% for the proportion of types I and IIA fibers and were two times higher for the proportion of type IIB fiber. The smallest and largest mean muscle fiber cross-sectional areas (CSA) were approximately 1,100 microns 2 and 9,500 microns 2, respectively. Mean CSA of the various fiber types exhibited CV of approximately 23%. CV reached 30% for the activity of creatine kinase, ranged between 28 and 41% for the glycolytic enzyme markers, and between 34 and 44% for the aerobic-oxidative enzyme markers. The mean proportion of type I fiber was lower in male than in female muscles, whereas the mean CSA of all fiber types was smaller in female than in male muscles. Levels of glycolytic enzyme markers were higher in male than in female skeletal muscles. However, activities of aerobic-oxidative enzyme markers were similar in males and females. These results reveal the existence of large interindividual variability and gender differences in the most common characteristics of the human skeletal muscle. PMID- 2529776 TI - Atrial natriuretic hormone and aldosterone regulation in salt-depleted state. AB - To evaluate the effect of very low-dose infusion of atrial natriuretic hormone (ANH) on aldosterone regulation, seven normal young men were infused for 2.5 h with 0.47 pmol.kg-1.min-1 of human [Ser-Tyr28]ANH or placebo. During the last 0.5 h 4 pmol.kg-1.min-1 of angiotensin II were also infused. ANH plasma levels increased from 3.46 +/- 0.25 to a maximum of 6.80 +/- 0.88 pmol/l, which is well within normal limits. Plasma aldosterone decreased almost 40%, from 40.7 +/- 5.7 to 25.9 +/- 4.9 ng/dl after 2 h. ANH infusion caused a slight decrease in blood pressure and slight increase in renal excretion of sodium and potassium. These results suggest that even small changes in ANH levels, within the normal range, have physiological significance, particularly in aldosterone regulation. PMID- 2529777 TI - Responses of vasopressin, atrial natriuretic peptide, and blood pressure to central osmotic stimulation. AB - To assess whether intracerebroventricular osmoreceptors are involved in vasopressin (AVP) and atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) release and in the pressor response to centrally administered hypertonic NaCl, artificial cerebrospinal fluid (ACSF) or ACSF made hypertonic by adding 0.2 M NaCl, 0.4 M mannitol, and 0.4 M glucose in isotonic ACSF or 0.4 M urea was infused into the 3rd ventricle of conscious rats. In addition, intravenous infusion of [1-(beta-mercapto beta,beta-cyclopentamethylenepropionic acid),2-(O-methyl)tyrosine]AVP (TMeAVP), a V1-AVP antagonist, was given in rats receiving intracerebroventricular infusion of 0.2 M NaCl in isotonic ACSF. Intracerebroventricular 0.2 M NaCl, 0.4 M mannitol, and 0.4 M glucose in isotonic ACSF increased plasma AVP and mean arterial pressure (MAP) without changing heart rate (HR) or plasma ANP. Urea at 0.4 M decreased plasma AVP and ANP with a slight rise in MAP but no change in HR. ACSF alone did not affect plasma AVP, ANP, MAP, or HR. Intravenous TMeAVP attenuated the pressor response to infusion of 0.2 M NaCl in isotonic ACSF, decreased plasma ANP, but did not affect HR. These results indicate that central osmoreceptors are involved in the release of AVP and in the pressor response to centrally administered hypertonic NaCl. PMID- 2529778 TI - Natriuretic and diuretic effects of infusion of atrial natriuretic factor in conscious dogs. AB - We studied the effects of 30-min infusions of the synthetic 25-amino acid atrial natriuretic factor [ANF-(102-126)] and the 28-amino acid ANF-(99-126) at 0.1 and 0.3 micrograms.kg-1.min-1 on urine flow rate, sodium excretion, and arterial pressure in conscious dogs. Each dose was administered on a separate day following a 1-h stabilization period. We also compared the effects of 60-min infusions of ANF, 0.01 micrograms.kg-1.min-1, or water infusion on separate days in conscious dogs. Arterial pressure was reduced in a dose-dependent fashion, reaching statistical significance at a dose of 0.3 micrograms.kg-1.min-1. During the 0.01-micrograms.kg-1.min-1 infusion, the plasma concentration of ANF rose approximately threefold (from 68 +/- 7 to 207 +/- 14 pg/ml), with no change in urine flow rate, sodium excretion, or arterial pressure. At a dose of 0.1 micrograms.kg-1.min-1, urine flow increased (P less than 0.05) by 0.41 +/- 0.15 ml/min, and sodium excretion rose by 72 +/- 24 mu eq/min, but not significantly, whereas plasma ANF levels rose to 1,236 +/- 229 pg/ml. At the highest dose of ANF (0.3 micrograms.kg-1.min-1) urine flow rose by 0.62 +/- 0.16 ml/min, P less than 0.05, and sodium excretion rose by 139 +/- 30 mu eq/min, P less than 0.05, whereas plasma levels of ANF rose to 2,436 +/- 320 pg/ml. In contrast, volume loading with dextran increased urine flow by 3.5 +/- 1.3 ml/min, P less than 0.05, and sodium excretion by 439 +/- 147 mu eq/min, P less than 0.05, whereas ANF rose to only 320 +/- 69 pg/ml. These results suggest that, in the conscious dog, ANF does not cause significant diuretic or natriuretic effects until plasma levels are markedly above those observed in physiological conditions. A possible explanation for the difference between this and previous studies is that the renal effects of ANF, at physiological plasma levels, are indirect and thus dependent on autonomic and hormonal (angiotensin, vasopressin, and aldosterone levels) factors governing the renal function of the animal. PMID- 2529779 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide reverses angiotensin-induced venoconstriction in dogs. AB - To determine whether atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) can reverse angiotensin (ANG II)-induced venoconstriction, ANP was infused (0.3 micrograms.kg-1.min-1) in the presence of ANG II-induced hypertension in six ganglion-blocked dogs. ANG II was initially administered to increase mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) 50% above control. ANG II did not change heart rate or left ventricular rate of pressure development (LV dP/dt) but increased total peripheral vascular resistance (TPVR) and left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP). Mean circulatory filling pressure (MCFP) increased, whereas cardiac output and venous compliance decreased. Unstressed vascular volume did not change, but central blood volume increased. ANP infusion during ANG II-induced hypertension resulted in a decrease in MAP, but TPVR did not change. There were no changes in heart rate or LV dP/dt. ANP decreased cardiac output further. LVEDP returned to base line with ANP. ANP also decreased MCFP and normalized venous compliance. There was no significant change in total blood volume, but central blood volume decreased. In summary, ANP can reverse the venoconstriction but not the arterial vasoconstriction produced by ANG II. The decrease in MAP was due to a decrease in cardiac output that resulted from venodilatation and aggravation of the preload afterload mismatch produced by ANG II alone. Because TPVR did not change when MAP fell, we conclude that the interaction between ANG II and ANP occurs primarily in the venous circulation. PMID- 2529780 TI - Effects of antiserum against alpha-rat atrial natriuretic polypeptide in spontaneously hypertensive rats. AB - To clarify the physiological role of endogenous atrial natriuretic polypeptide (ANP), we investigated the effects of specific rabbit antiserum against alpha-rat ANP (alpha-rANP) on hemodynamics, diuresis, and natriuresis in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY). Intravenous administration of anti-alpha-rANP antiserum caused an obvious rise of mean blood pressure and cardiac output in both SHR and WKY compared with rats administered with normal rabbit serum. Although there was no significant difference in increments of mean blood pressure between SHR and WKY, the increment of cardiac output in SHR was significantly higher than that in WKY. On the other hand, significant reductions in urine output and urinary sodium and potassium excretion lasted for approximately 20 min after administration of the antiserum in both SHR and WKY compared with rats administered with normal rabbit serum. There was no significant difference in these initial maximal decrements between SHR and WKY. These results indicate that endogenous ANP has an important physiological role in the regulation of hemodynamics and water-electrolyte balance in both SHR and WKY. The greater increment of cardiac output in SHR in response to the antiserum suggests that endogenous ANP in SHR may have a stronger cardiosuppressive action that it does in WKY. PMID- 2529781 TI - Role of lowering arterial pressure on maximal coronary flow with and without regression of cardiac hypertrophy. AB - This study was initiated to test the hypothesis that attenuation of long-term hypertension with or without regression of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) will lower minimal coronary vascular resistance (MCVR). Six-month-old spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) and Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats were treated with captopril or hydralazine for a period of 3 mo. Myocardial perfusion, measured with microspheres, and hemodynamic data were obtained in awake, unrestrained rats aged 9 mo. MCVR was calculated from the quotient of mean/myocardial perfusion. Both drugs significantly lowered arterial systolic pressure in both strains of rats, but only captopril was effective in reducing heart mass. Left ventricular MCVR per 100 g was lower in captopril-treated WKY (0.064 +/- 0.012) and SHR (0.079 +/- 0.006) than the untreated controls (SHR: 0.124 +/- 0.006; WKY: 0.098 +/- 0.009), whereas total LV MCVR was unaltered by treatment. Hydralazine tended to lower LV MCVR per 100 g in both strains despite its tendency to increase ventricular mass. Captopril, but not hydralazine, treatment was associated with a significant increase in capillary density in both WKY and SHR. We conclude that the improvement in MCVR is related to both the regression of LVH and to the consequences of lowering arterial systolic pressure. In contrast, the increase in capillary density appears to be related to the decrease in ventricular mass after captopril treatment. PMID- 2529782 TI - Dependent effect of drinking volume on vasopressin but not atrial peptide in humans. AB - The act of drinking causes a fall in plasma arginine vasopressin (AVP) concentration that precedes changes in plasma osmolality. To investigate the specificity of this drinking stimulus on hormone secretion, six volunteers (5 male, 1 female, aged 22-39 yr) were water deprived for 36 h and then drank 15 ml/kg water at 10-12 degrees C using 15-20 swallowing actions/min over 3.5 +/- 0.5 min (mean +/- SE). This caused a fall in plasma AVP from 4.5 +/- 0.7 to 3.2 +/- 0.5 pmol/l (P less than 0.05) and in thirst (by 5.7 +/- 0.6 on a 10-cm linear analog scale) (P less than 0.05) 5 min after drinking. No significant changes occurred in mean arterial pressure, heart rate, or plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) concentration. A second study was undertaken to determine whether the reflex inhibition of AVP secretion is activated simply by the act of swallowing regardless of the volume of liquid consumed. The six volunteers were water deprived for 36 h and then sipped and swallowed 1 ml/kg water at 10-12 degrees C using 15-20 swallowing actions/min over 3.0 +/- 0.1 min. There was no change in plasma AVP concentration, although thirst was reduced by 2.3 +/- 0.6 (P less than 0.05) at 5 min. Plasma AVP 10 min after sipping and swallowing (4.2 +/- 0.8 pmol/l) was significantly greater than at 10 min after drinking 15 ml/kg (2.8 +/- 0.5 pmol/l) (P less than 0.05) despite the fact that plasma osmolality at this stage was similar in both studies. We conclude that the drinking-mediated reflex inhibition of AVP secretion in humans is dependent on swallowing an adequate volume and is not accompanied by changes in hemodynamics or in plasma ANP concentration. PMID- 2529783 TI - In vivo control of phosphofructokinase: system models suggest new experimental protocols. AB - There is still uncertainty as to how much control of in vivo rates of glycolysis by phosphofructokinase (PFK) depends on cytosolic phosphate energy state. Three models of PFK kinetics incorporating sensitivity to pH, adenine nucleotides, and inorganic phosphate (Pi) were embedded in the physiological "phosphate energy system" of creatine-containing tissues [Connett, R.J. Am. J. Physiol. 254 (Regulatory Integrative Comp. Physiol. 23): R949-R959, 1988]. Effects of changes in phosphate energy state and total adenine nucleotide and phosphate pools on steady-state kinetics were examined. Analyses mimicking in vitro experiments indicated no activity at the pH and [ATP] of working muscles. When tested using the coordinated changes in Pi and adenine nucleotides expected in vivo, all models showed reasonable activity. Control was dominated by [Pi] in the normal physiological range of energy states. The almost linear response to phosphate energy state, measured by creatine charge (phosphocreatine/total creatine), is insensitive to the absolute size of the adenine nucleotide pool. A step to almost full activation occurred when phosphocreatine buffering of [ATP] was exceeded. Several experimental studies are suggested. PMID- 2529784 TI - Release of atrial natriuretic factor during infusion of isoproterenol and angiotensin II. AB - Release of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) is related to atrial pressure and heart rate and may be influenced by beta-adrenergic stimulation and angiotensin II. Experiments in five closed-chest dogs showed lower plasma immunoreactive (ir) ANF during intravenous (iv) isoproterenol (0.2-0.3 micrograms.kg-1.min-1) and higher plasma ir-ANF during iv angiotensin II (0.2-0.3 micrograms.kg-1.min-1) than during blood volume expansion measured at equal mean right atrial pressure (RAP) and heart rate. This indicated that the agents may affect ANF release differently, possibly through their effects on left atrial pressure (LAP). In five open-chest dogs with right atrial pacing at 216 +/- 1 beats/min, blood volume was expanded until mean RAP was 9 mmHg. Mean LAP rose to 16.8 +/- 2.0 mmHg, and plasma ir-ANF rose from 57 +/- 6 to 219 +/- 39 pg/ml. At a constant mean RAP of 9 mmHg, iv isoproterenol infusion reduced mean LAP to 12.6 +/- 1.4 mmHg and reduced plasma ir-ANF by 115 +/- 31 to 105 +/- 13 pg/ml. During iv angiotensin II infusion at a mean RAP of 9 mmHg, mean LAP rose to 23.2 +/- 2.2 mmHg and plasma ir-ANF averaged 281 +/- 77 pg/ml. The correlation between plasma ir-ANF and LAP (r = 0.83) indicates that the different effects of isoproterenol and angiotensin II on ANF release can be accounted for by the effects on LAP. PMID- 2529785 TI - Restoration of renal response to atrial natriuretic factor in experimental low output heart failure. AB - The renal response to atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) has been shown to be blunted in several experimental models of acute and chronic congestive heart failure. The mechanism responsible for this blunted response has been postulated to be activation of the renin-angiotensin system with associated potent antinatriuretic effects and/or the reduction in renal perfusion pressure (RPP) characteristic of heart failure. The present study was designed to examine the relative role of these two factors in mediating the blunted response to ANF in a model of acute low output heart failure produced by thoracic inferior vena cava constriction (TIVCC) in the anesthetized dog. TIVCC was produced in five groups of dogs. In group 1, ANF was infused after TIVCC to document the blunted natriuretic response. In group 2, ANF was infused after TIVCC in the presence of blockade of intrarenal angiotensin II (ANG II) by the intrarenal infusion of saralasin (Sar) at a dose without systemic effects. In group 3, ANF was infused after TIVCC in the presence of restoration of RPP by infusion of ANG II at a dose titrated to restore RPP to the level present before TIVCC. In group 4, ANF was infused in the presence of restoration of RPP with ANG II and blockade of intrarenal ANG II with Sar. Group 5 served as an additional control group where the effect of ANG II and Sar in TIVCC was examined in the absence of ANF. Restoration of RPP but not blockade of intrarenal ANG II resulted in a restoration of the response of sodium excretion and glomerular filtration rate to ANF. ANG II plus Sar in the absence of ANF did not produce a natriuresis. We conclude that RPP, more than intrarenal ANG II, modulates the blunted renal response to ANF observed in this model of acute low-output heart failure. PMID- 2529786 TI - Relationship between atrial granularity and release of atrial natriuretic factor in rats with diabetes mellitus. AB - We examined the effect of a 25% blood volume expansion on the release of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) in conscious Wistar rats (13-15 wk old) injected 6 wk earlier with streptozotocin (55 mg/kg iv, diabetic) or saline (1 ml/kg iv, control). The diabetic rats demonstrated a significant (P less than 0.05) resting hypotension (132 +/- 2/91 +/- 1 mmHg, systolic/diastolic) and bradycardia (340 +/ 5 beats/min) compared with the controls (145 +/- 2/98 +/- 2 mmHg, 377 +/- 8 beats/min). Resting plasma immunoreactive (IR) ANF levels were significantly (P less than 0.05) elevated in the diabetic rats (control: 72 +/- 4 pg/ml; diabetic: 87 +/- 4), although resting right atrial pressures were not different (control: 6.0 +/- 0.8 cmH2O; diabetic: 5.2 +/- 0.6). Volume expansion with donor blood from similarly treated animals significantly (P less than 0.05) elevated IR ANF levels in both groups, but the increase in the saline-injected group (+527 +/- 80 pg/ml) was significantly (P less than 0.05) greater than that of the streptozotocin injected group (+323 +/- 45 pg/ml). Both groups showed similar elevations in right atrial pressure (control: +1.8 +/- 0.3 cmH2O; diabetic: +1.6 +/- 0.4). Morphological examination of tissue taken from right atria demonstrated no difference in cardiocyte volume percent per unit of tissue but a significant (P less than 0.05) reduction in the relative frequency of occurrence of atrial granules in the diabetic group. The cause of the reduction in atrial granularity in these animals is as yet unknown. PMID- 2529787 TI - Immunoreactive atriopeptin in plasma of fishes: its potential role in gill hemodynamics. AB - With the use of antibodies raised against human atriopeptin (AP), immunoreactive AP (APir) was quantified in the plasma of five species of marine fishes, including members of the Agnatha, Chondrichthyes, and Osteichthyes. Concentrations of APir in fish plasma are in the same range as those described for mammalian species, indicating that AP was present in the earliest vertebrates and has retained at least partial structural similarity during the course of vertebrate evolution. Acclimation of two species to very dilute seawater was associated with a significant reduction in plasma APir, suggesting that salt loading, rather than volume expansion, may be the primary stimulus for AP release in fishes. Heterologous rat atriopeptin (AP101-126) vasodilated preconstricted, perfused gills and unstimulated isolated vascular rings from the ventral aorta of the marine teleost Opsanus beta with an apparent half maximum effective concentration (EC50) of 3-4 x 10(-9) M, similar to sensitivities to AP described for mammalian vascular smooth muscle. Acclimation of toadfish to approximately 5% seawater (hyposmotic to plasma) did not alter the sensitivity of the perfused gills but reduced the apparent EC50 of rat AP on aortic rings to 3 x 10(-10) M. Extracts from O. beta atrium, ventricle, and brain also produced dilation of aortic rings, with ventricular extracts producing the greatest effect per milligram extracted tissue, suggesting that the ventricle may be a major site source of atriopeptin in fishes. An atriopeptin-induced increase in blood flow to the fish gill would theoretically have detrimental osmotic consequences, but may stimulate salt transport, again suggesting that a putative atriopeptin may be involved in salt, rather than osmotic, balance in fishes. PMID- 2529788 TI - Red Dracunculus medinensis. AB - Two instances of the emergence of a bright-red worm from humans in Pakistan are described. A 25-year-old man and a 26-year-old woman, unrelated and living in separate households, were observed in 1987 and 1988, respectively, to have emergent worms typical in size and location for Guinea worm disease, except for the color of the worms. The posterior end of 1 worm was recovered and appeared to be a female Dracunculus medinensis. Histologic sections provided insufficient information to determine the cause of the red color, although we could exclude blood as the cause. PMID- 2529790 TI - [Beta-endorphin blood levels of women with various forms of amenorrhea]. PMID- 2529789 TI - [Diagnostic criteria for polycystic ovary syndrome]. AB - Due to the comprehensive examination of 50 patients with ovarian polycystosis the authors suggested that ultrasound, laparoscopic, hormonal and endometrial parameters should be employed as diagnostic criteria. PMID- 2529791 TI - [A case of clinical death during laparoscopy]. PMID- 2529794 TI - Abdominal muscle activity and intraabdominal pressure after upper abdominal surgery. AB - To examine the influence of abdominal muscle activity on intraabdominal pressure, the integrated surface EMG from upper abdominal muscle (EAB) was related to changes in intragastric pressure (PGA) in six patients after upper abdominal surgery. A similar respiratory pattern of EMG activity was observed in all subjects. EAB increased rapidly at the onset of expiration, and thereafter more slowly throughout expiration. At the onset of inspiration EAB decreased abruptly, and was small during inspiration. Changes in intragastric pressures were closely related to changes in EAB. In five patients PGA and EAB waveforms were almost identical over the respiratory cycle. In one subject a biphasic change in PGA during inspiration was observed, suggesting the influence of other respiratory muscles. Abdominal muscle action results in changes in intraabdominal pressure previously attributed to diaphragmatic impairment. PMID- 2529792 TI - Mechanisms of alcohol-induced suppression of B-cell response. AB - Several investigators have shown that alcohol can suppress the production of antibodies by animals and humans. The studies reported here were designed to determine whether alcohol has a direct effect on the B-lymphocyte and to determine which stage of the B-cell response is inhibited by alcohol. B lymphocyte lines specific for the antigen dinitrophenyl were used to study the effect of alcohol on the B-lymphocyte. As little as 100 mg% of alcohol inhibited the response of these pure B-cell lines to stimulation by either antigen (dinitrophenyl-Ficoll) or anti-mu antibody. Since no other cell types were present in the system the suppressive effect was on the B-cell itself. However, alcohol did not inhibit membrane depolarization induced by antigen crosslinking of immunoglobulin receptors, and it did not inhibit activation of the phosphatidyl inositol pathway by receptor crosslinking. When alcohol was added to antigen stimulated B-lymphocyte lines for varying periods during the immune response it was found that antibody production was inhibited if 150 mg% alcohol was present from 30 to 48 hr after the antigen was added to lymphocytes. Thirty six to 48 hr is the time required for a stimulated mature B-lymphocyte to enter the proliferative phase of the immune response. These data raise the possibility that low doses of alcohol can inhibit antigen-induced B-cell proliferation. PMID- 2529793 TI - Heparitinase treatment of rat embryos during cranial neurulation. AB - Heparan sulphate has been reported to be present in rat embryos. It is covalently linked to a core protein as heparan sulphate proteoglycan (HSPG). Heparitinase specifically degrades heparan sulphate, thus treatment of rat embryos with this enzyme in vitro should result in the perturbation of any tissue interactions which involve heparan sulphate proteoglycan. In this study heparitinase was either added to the culture medium or microinjected directly into the amniotic cavity. Heparitinase treatment resulted in abnormal development of the whole embryo, but the earliest effects were observed in the cranial region. Forebrain development was grossly abnormal: the neural folds remained widely open, with beak-like outgrowths rostrally. Optic sulci failed to develop. The midbrain and rostral hindbrain neural folds also remained widely open. In the trunk, where the pattern of neurulation is less complex than in the cranial region, rostral neural tube closure did occur although the morphology of the closed region was far from normal. These results suggest that heparan sulphate proteoglycan is essential for normal neurulation. Epithelial somite formation was perturbed, but neural crest cell emigration, otic pit formation and pharyngeal arch formation, all important morphogenetic events which occur during this period of development, were not inhibited by heparitinase treatment. Prolonged (44 h) exposure to the enzyme resulted in the conversion of the embryonic structure to a much simpler form: mesenchymal cells (stellate or spindle-shaped) enclosed within a simple epithelial coating. PMID- 2529795 TI - Cardiac electrophysiologic effects of fentanyl and sufentanil in canine cardiac Purkinje fibers. AB - The electrophysiologic effects of high concentrations of the opioid agonists, fentanyl and sufentanil, on isolated canine cardiac Purkinje fibers were studied. Changes in action potential parameters were examined at the following concentrations: fentanyl 94.6 nM, 0.19 microM, and 0.95 microM; sufentanil 8.6 nM, 86.4 nM, 0.17 microM, and 0.26 microM. Naloxone 5.5 microM was administered after maximal changes were induced by fentanyl in order to explore the possibility of an opioid receptor interaction. Action potential parameters measured were Vmax of phase 0, amplitude, overshoot, maximum diastolic potential, action potential duration at 50%, and 90% repolarization and membrane responsiveness. Fentanyl 0.19 microM and sufentanil-0.17 microM caused a significant lengthening of action potential duration at 50 and 90% repolarization, 6.4% and 7.3%, and 10.2% and 12.4%, respectively, P less than 0.05. Other action potential parameters were not significantly affected by the opioids. Naloxone 5.5 microM alone did not alter action potential characteristics and failed to reverse action potential prolongation produced by fentanyl. The authors suggest that fentanyl and sufentanil prolong action potential duration in canine cardiac Purkinje fibers via direct membrane actions. PMID- 2529796 TI - [Effect of electroanesthesia and neuroleptanalgesia on blood plasma beta endorphin level during surgical intervention in cancer patients]. AB - Beta-endorphin release was studied in 40 patients after surgery for thyroid cancer or after femoral amputation due to malignant malformations in bones and soft tissues of the lower extremities. In thyroid surgery beta-endorphin release was more marked under neuroleptanalgesia than under combined electroanesthesia. A correlation between beta-endorphin and ACTH levels has been established. It indicates a stress nature of neuropeptide release. In patients with femoral amputation an increased beta-endorphin release was not observed. Possible mechanisms of beta-endorphin level elevation are discussed in terms of modern concepts of pain modulation. PMID- 2529797 TI - Recurrent angioedema associated with hypogonadism or anti-androgen therapy. AB - Two male patients with hypogonadism and four female patients who received an anti androgen as contraceptive (cyproteronacetate) and who had recurrent angioedema are described. In one male patient, augmentation of the plasma androgen level resulted in disappearance of symptoms. In the four female patients, recurrent angioedema and urticaria developed after initiation of the anti-androgen treatment. Cessation of cyproteronacetate and a change to another contraceptive resulted in complete resolution of the previously frequent angioedematous attacks. The women are still symptom free after more than 60 patient's months. These cases suggest that an androgen deficit due to either hypogonadism or to anti-androgen treatment may be another cause of angioedema. One of the two male patients was untreated and presented with 40% normal value of C1-INH. Androgen therapy normalized C1-INH concentration in this male patient. Functional C1-INH in the same patient, studied before and after the beginning of androgen therapy, clearly increased when assessed by inhibition of amidolytic activity of C1 esterase. The other male patient with hypogonadism had already been under androgen treatment for 4 years and had C1-INH levels in the normal range. In the female patients, complement profiles were normal before and after cessation of anti-androgen contraception; however, the C1-INH plasma levels were higher after cessation of anti-androgen anticonception. These results indicate an effect of androgen deficit on the level of C1-INH in circulating plasma but do not prove a role of C1-INH in angioedema associated with diminished androgen plasma levels. PMID- 2529798 TI - Loratadine-pseudoephedrine combination versus placebo in patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis. AB - Two hundred sixty-four patients with moderate to severe seasonal allergic rhinitis were treated with loratadine 5 mg plus pseudoephedrine 120 mg twice a day or placebo in a 28-day multicenter study. Four nasal and four non-nasal symptoms were evaluated for efficacy. At the last evaluable visit, the active treatment group had significantly lower (P = .05) mean combined nasal and non nasal symptom scores than the placebo group. Also, the physician's rating of overall therapeutic response was significantly better in the active-treatment group (P = .03). Dry mouth, insomnia, and nervousness were reported by a significantly greater proportion (P less than or equal to .04) in the active treatment group. Sedation occurred in 7% of patients in each treatment group and 6% of patients in each group discontinued the study because of adverse experiences. Loratadine plus pseudoephedrine was safe and significantly more effective than placebo in relieving the symptoms of allergic rhinitis. PMID- 2529799 TI - The effectiveness of the nonsedating antihistamine loratadine plus pseudoephedrine in the symptomatic management of the common cold. AB - A multicentered trial compared the effects of the non-sedating antihistamine, loratadine, 5 mg plus pseudoephedrine 120 mg with a placebo on the signs and symptoms of the common cold. One hundred forty-two (142) subjects were treated with the loratadine/pseudoephedrine combination and 141 subjects were treated with placebo twice daily for five days. Evaluations by both subjects and physicians suggest that this antihistamine/decongestant combination is superior to placebo in relieving symptoms of the common cold. Specific differences were found in symptoms including nasal congestion, sneezing, postnasal drainage, and nasal discharge. Differences between groups for the following side effects were found: dry mouth (9% for the combination vs 2% for placebo), insomnia (6% vs 3%), and nervousness (4% vs 2%). There were no differences between groups for the frequency of drowsiness. PMID- 2529800 TI - Exposure to low levels of ozone results in enhanced pulmonary retention of inhaled asbestos fibers. AB - Health effects associated with exposure to ozone at environmentally relevant concentrations are subject to considerable controversy. Currently, no compelling evidence exists that exposure to low levels of ozone leads to lasting impairment of pulmonary structure or function. One adverse health effect of ozone may be to change lung uptake or clearance functions for other inhaled air pollutants. As a test of this hypothesis, Fischer 344 rats were continuously exposed to 0.06 ppm ozone 7 days a week with a slow rise in ozone to a peak of 0.25 ppm and subsequent decrease to 0.06 ppm over a 9-h period five times each week for 6 wk. Three days after the end of ozone exposure, animals-were exposed to aerosolized asbestos fibers for 5 h and examined immediately after or 30 days after exposure to asbestos. Filtered air control animals were simultaneously exposed to asbestos. Immediately after the end of fiber exposure, lung asbestos fiber burden was similar in both groups. However, 1 month after exposure, fiber mass and fiber number were significantly greater (p less than 0.05) in the lungs of animals exposed to ozone than in the lungs of those exposed to air. These findings suggest that ambient levels of ozone can impair clearance of fibrogenic and carcinogenic materials such as asbestos from the lungs and represent an important adverse effect of prolonged exposure to low levels of this oxidant gas. PMID- 2529801 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide levels and pulmonary hemodynamics in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. PMID- 2529802 TI - Dose response to ipratropium as a nebulized solution in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. PMID- 2529803 TI - Lung Health Study. PMID- 2529804 TI - The effects of aminophylline and pentoxifylline on multiple organ damage after Escherichia coli sepsis. AB - We studied the effects of the methylxanthines, aminophylline (AMPH) and pentoxifylline (PTXF), on multiple organ damage following Escherichia coli sepsis in guinea pigs. To assess multiple organ damage, 125I-labeled albumin accumulation was measured in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid, lung, kidneys, liver, heart, adrenal glands, and spleen and expressed as a ratio of BAL fluid or tissue to 125I-labeled albumin plasma (albumin index: Al). Wet-to-dry lung weight (W/D) ratios were also measured. The methylxanthines were administered by a bolus injection followed by a continuous infusion. The seven experimental groups included: saline-control, AMPH-control, PTXF-control, E. coli septic-control, E. coli septic-AMPH high dose, E coli septic-AMPH low dose, and E. coli septic-PTXF. The AI of the BAL fluid and all examined organs significantly increased in the septic-control group compared to those in the saline-, AMPH-, and PTXF-control groups, In all septic-methylxanthine groups, the AI of the BAL fluid and all organs, except for the spleen, were significantly lower than those of the septic control group. Compared to the saline-, AMPH-, and PTXF-control groups, the septic-control group revealed a significant increase in lung W/D ratios, whereas the septic-AMPH high and low dose groups and the septic-PTXF group did not. Of importance, the septic-PTXF group did not cause a significant decrease in mean arterial pressure (MAP) as compared to the control groups, whereas the septic AMPH groups did cause a significant decrease in MAP compared to the septic control group. Therefore, the data from this experiment demonstrate that both AMPH and PTXF attenuate the multiple organ albumin leak seen in septic guinea pigs. However, PTXF exerted this protective effect with no discernible effect on the MAP whereas the MAP of AMPH-treated guinea pigs was significantly decreased. PMID- 2529805 TI - Transpelvic rectus abdominis flap reconstruction of defects following abdominal perineal resection. AB - Abdominal-perineal resection for advanced rectal carcinoma may leave a large defect for which complete secondary healing can be slow. In such cases, the inferiorly based rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap, passed through the pelvis into the perineum, can provide a large amount of well-vascularized tissue that may be placed in the defect to facilitate primary healing and allow a quicker recovery. Additional advantages include displacement of the bowel out of the pelvis to facilitate postoperative radiotherapy, and the ability to reconstruct vaginal wall defects. We report a series of seven patients for whom the transpelvic rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap was used to cover perineal defects following abdominal-perineal resection. Although one flap failed, all patients healed rapidly and the only lasting complication was a possibly related small upper-abdominal hernia found one year after surgery. PMID- 2529806 TI - [Adverse reactions caused by drugs in pediatrics]. AB - The present study describes the results obtained in a screening program aimed at detecting adverse reactions to medication in children aged 1-8 years admitted to the Pediatrics Service of the University of Granada Hospital (Spain). The program is based on monitoring the patients for a period of 12 months. Of a total of 597 patients, adverse reactions were recorded in 4.4%. Within this group the reactions were classified as confirmed in 33.3%, probable in 30% and possible in 36.6%. Based on organs and systems, the CNS was most frequently affected (40%), followed in decreasing order by the digestive (37%) and cardiovascular systems (10%), skin (10%) and endocrine system (3%). The drugs most frequently involved were bronchodilators (40%), antibiotics (30%) and antiepileptics (20%). Among risk factors, polytherapy, hospitalization time and type of drug administered were the most important. PMID- 2529808 TI - Skin disease in the pottery industry. AB - The only common skin disease in the pottery industry is eczematous dermatitis. Low-grade dermatitis, not necessitating absence from work, may affect 5-10% of the workforce. In perhaps only 1% is the condition severe enough to cause significant absence from work and the attendant financial problems. Mostly the problem is that of a cumulative irritant dermatitis associated particularly with wet work. Such a pattern is more common in patients with a history of childhood eczema. As the prognosis of industrial dermatitis is poor, such subjects should be counselled against work that occasions exposure to potential skin irritants. More rarely the problem is due to allergic contact dermatitis. Here identification and replacement or avoidance of the allergen may resolve the problem. PMID- 2529807 TI - Pyridoxine for the palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome. PMID- 2529809 TI - Pneumoconiosis in pottery workers and its trends in north Staffordshire from the point of view of the Medical Boarding Centre (Respiratory Diseases), Stoke-on Trent. AB - Classification of pottery workers' pneumoconiosis and the procedure followed for claims to disablement benefit for this condition have been outlined. Review of the newly diagnosed cases of pneumoconiosis in pottery workers in North Staffordshire as experienced by the Medical Boarding Centre (Respiratory Diseases), Stoke-on-Trent, show that the number of such cases has dropped from the peaks of nearly 300 cases per year in the mid-1950s to about 10 cases per year in the last 12 years. The percentage of people aged 60 and above among the newly diagnosed cases has increased from 35% in the 1960s to about 70% in the 1980s. Only a minority of cases has been diagnosed following exposure under 20 years and most described exposure for over 30 years. As a point of interest, age at death of not strictly comparable groups of pottery workers at different times over the last 100 years has been compared. The longevity, probably not surprisingly, appears to have improved considerably during that period. Although our data do not denote the true incidence of pneumoconiosis in pottery workers in North Staffordshire perhaps it may be concluded that our figures do point to a declining incidence of this condition. PMID- 2529810 TI - Changes in phospholipid fatty acid composition of mouse cardiac organelles after feeding graded amounts of docosahexaenoate in presence of high levels of linoleate. Effect on cardiac ATPase activities. AB - Mice were fed diets containing a constant supply of linoleic acid (18:2n-6, LA) as ethyl ester representing 5% by weight of the total fat (5 wt%), in combination with graded amounts of purified docosahexaenoate (22:6n-3, DHA). Cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) and mitochondrial phospholipids (PL) from mice fed the diet without DHA contained higher levels of n-6 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) (22:4n-6 and 22:5n-6) compared to total PL of liver. In the cardiac mitochondrial PL, the level of LA, DHA, the total content of PUFA and the P/S ratio were significantly higher than in SR. A small increase in dietary DHA from 0 to 0.43 wt% induced a 3.6-fold increase in PL DHA content from both cardiac organelles, with a concurrent reduction of n-6 PUFA. The changes in fatty acid PL composition were much more moderate when dietary DHA level was increased to 0.85 and 3.74 wt%. Feeding the lowest amount of DHA resulted in a 6-fold decrease in the value of n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio and a 3.5-fold decrease in the value of 20 carbon chain/22 carbon chain PUFA ratio. DHA was readily depleted from cardiac PL, and only arachidonic acid was retained in the PL from both organelles, after feeding a fat-deficient diet. Despite these drastic modifications in PL fatty acid composition, the maximum velocity (Vm) of SR Ca2+, Mg2+-ATPase was not affected, which indicates that SR cardiac membrane adapts to changes in fatty acid composition to prevent important modifications of its functional properties. However, the Vm of mitochondrial oligomycin-sensitive ATPase was slightly increased in mice fed the lowest amount of DHA. This might be due to an increase in P/S ratio and/or to a modification of cardiolipin fatty acid composition, since this PL is required for optimum function of this enzyme. It is concluded that DHA is strongly taken up by mouse cardiac PL, even in the presence of high dietary LA levels, but its acylation into PL has only little effect on the cardiac ATPase activities. PMID- 2529811 TI - Hyperkalemic periodic paralysis in Gordon's syndrome: a possible defect in atrial natriuretic peptide function. AB - We present the case of a 14-year-old boy who had secondary hyperkalemic periodic paralysis caused by Gordon's syndrome. This syndrome consists of hypertension, tubular acidosis, and hyperkalemia with normal glomerular filtration rate. The pathophysiological mechanism is still unknown. Pathophysiological studies suggest that in this disorder the kidney lacks sensitivity to atrial natriuretic peptide. After treatment with hydrochlorothiazide, serum potassium and plasma aldosterone values, plasma renin activity, and blood pressure became normal and the attacks of periodic paralysis disappeared. PMID- 2529812 TI - Cortical dihydropyridine binding sites are unaltered in human alcoholic brain. AB - The density and affinity of sites labeled by the 1,4-dihydropyridines, [3H]nitrendipine and (+) [3H]PN 200-110, were not significantly different in superior frontal and parietal cortical membranes from alcoholic patients and nonalcoholic control patients. This is in contrast to the increased number of dihydropyridine receptors and increased functional activity of calcium channels reported in brain from rats treated chronically with ethanol and in neural cell lines grown in the presence of ethanol. These results indicate that 1,4 dihydropyridine-sensitive calcium channels (L type) in the brain, despite possible acute changes, are unaltered following long-term ethanol exposure in humans. PMID- 2529813 TI - Role of the DNA/membrane complex in prokaryotic DNA replication. PMID- 2529815 TI - Teicoplanin in the treatment of gram-positive-bacterial endocarditis. AB - Intravenous teicoplanin has been used to treat 23 cases of gram-positive bacterial endocarditis, usually with 3 to 7 mg/kg every 12 h on the first day, followed by 3 to 7 mg/kg every 24 h. For some cases (staphylococcal and enterococcal endocarditis), the dosage was 8 to 14.4 mg/kg per day and/or other antibiotics were given. The mean duration was 48.2 days (range, 23 to 130 days). Of 23 patients, 21 (91.3%) had negative cultures or were cured. A total of 18 patients were treated with teicoplanin alone; of these, 4 had surgery, and all (except 2 who relapsed) were cured. Teicoplanin was combined with one or more antibiotics in five cases; in all cases appropriate cultures were negative, but three patients died during therapy or follow-up. Mild renal impairment was seen in two patients; both were receiving teicoplanin in combination with an aminoglycoside. We conclude that intravenous teicoplanin administered once a day at doses of 7 to 14 mg/kg per day is well tolerated, easy to administer, and may represent an efficacious therapy for gram-positive-bacterial endocarditis. PMID- 2529817 TI - [Changes in ATPase activity recognized in granulocytes from patients with carcinomas of the gastrointestinal tract]. PMID- 2529814 TI - Randomized prospective study comparing vancomycin with teicoplanin in the treatment of infections associated with Hickman catheters. AB - In 72 episodes of suspected or proven Hickman-catheter-associated infection occurring in 59 patients with various hematological disorders, patients were assigned to treatment with either vancomycin or teicoplanin in a randomized nonblinded prospective study. Of 60 episodes evaluable for response, 28 were treated with vancomycin and 32 were treated with teicoplanin. Sixteen infective episodes were microbiologically documented in the vancomycin group, and twenty one were microbiologically documented in the teicoplanin group. Microbiologically and clinically documented infections treated with vancomycin had an 80% response rate, compared with a 69% response rate for those treated with teicoplanin (P = 0.316). Adverse events occurred in nine (25%) of the episodes in the vancomycin group, compared with three (8%) in the teicoplanin group (P = 0.044). Teicoplanin may provide an effective alternative to vancomycin in the treatment of Hickman catheter-associated infection in patients with hematological malignancies. PMID- 2529816 TI - Detection of Acinetobacter spp. in rural drinking water supplies. AB - A bacteriological survey was conducted of untreated, individual groundwater supplies in Preston County, W.Va. Nearly 60% of the water supplies contained total coliforms in excess of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency maximum contaminant level of 1 CFU/100 ml. Approximately one-third of the water systems contained fecal coliforms and/or fecal streptococci. Acinetobacter spp. were detected in 38% of the groundwater supplies at an arithmetic mean density of 8 CFU/100 ml and were present in 16% of the water supplies in the absence of total coliforms, posing some concern about the usefulness of total coliforms as indicators of the presence of this opportunistic pathogen. Slime production, a virulence factor for A. calcoaceticus, was not significantly different between well water isolates and clinical strains, suggesting some degree of pathogenic potential for strains isolated from groundwater. In addition, several Acinetobacter isolates were able to interfere with sheen production by some coliform bacteria on M-Endo medium, adding further to the possible significance of Acinetobacter spp. in groundwater supplies. PMID- 2529818 TI - Evaluation of ATPase-positive Langerhans' cells in skin lesions of lupus erythematosus and experimentally induced inflammations. AB - We examined the time-dependent dynamics of epidermal Langerhans' cells (LC) in human systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), in MRL/Mp-lpr/lpr(MRL/lpr) mice, and in various experimental cutaneous inflammations, such as the Arthus reaction, dinitrochlorobenzene allergic dermatitis, and croton oil primary irritant dermatitis, in order to clarify the pathomechanisms of lupus skin lesions. The numbers of LC in untreated SLE patients with newly developed skin lesions decreased in the central lesional sites and increased significantly in the peripheral lesional sites. In MRL/lpr mice, the number of LC increased significantly in the central lesional sites during the initial stage and increased in the peripheral lesional sites and decreased in the central lesional sites 2-4 weeks after the onset of skin lesions. In contrast, with experimental cutaneous inflammations of guinea pigs, the increase in numbers of LC in the peripheral lesional sites was not significant during the time course of the reaction. These results suggest that the increased numbers of LC during the active and early stages of skin lesions in human SLE and MRL/lpr mice are closely related to the specific spontaneous development of skin lesions, unlike the dynamics of LC in experimental cutaneous inflammations. PMID- 2529819 TI - Pharmacological studies on dithranol-induced irritative dermatitis in mice. AB - The effects of different pharmacological substances on dithranol-induced irritative dermatitis were studied in mice. Pretreatment of the animals with a specific platelet activating factor (PAF) antagonist, BN 52021, significantly reduced the ear swelling in a dose-dependent manner. The cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin, the antihistamine clemastine, and the anti-oxidant superoxide dismutase also proved to be effective in the reduction of the dermatitis. The results provide evidence of the coinvolvement of PAF, prostaglandins, histamine, and reactive oxygen radicals in dithranol-induced irritative dermatitis in mice. PMID- 2529820 TI - [LH episodes in high performance sports]. AB - For the elucidation of hypothalamic factors, which predominantly cause exercise amenorrhea 10 untrained and 6 trained volunteers were experimentally tested during 6 hours of rest (R) and 2 hours long distance run (E). The exercise exerted several physical and metabolic demands, leading to increment of LH pulse frequently mainly in trained women (interpulse-interval IPI, R: 104 +/- 50, E: 78.8 +/- 33), due to unaltered beta-endorphin (R: 6.4 +/- 2, E: 6.5 +/- 1.5) and augmented norepinephrine (R: 462 +/- 275, E: 1267 +/- 773 pg/ml). In untrained subjects LH pulses decreased in frequency, as a consequence of increased beta-E and NE (R: 6 +/- 3, E: 12.2 +/- 7.4 pg/ml) (R: 432 +/- 208, E: 947 +/- 473). PMID- 2529821 TI - [Changing from laparotomy to minimal invasive surgery: pelviscopy]. PMID- 2529822 TI - [Results of organ-saving therapy in tubal pregnancy]. AB - Worldwide, the incidence of nonruptured tubal pregnancy has increased, and so has the feasibility of conservative management of this condition. Following conservative surgery the rate of intrauterine pregnancy is significantly higher than after salpingectomy. The rate of ectopic pregnancy has not (or hardly) increased. For a surgeon skilled in this technique, the laparoscopic approach has advantages because it avoids laparotomy. For the time being, medical treatment of ectopic pregnancy with methotrexate, prostaglandins, and antiprogesterone should be confined to clinical studies. For nonviable, nonruptured tubal pregnancy with decreasing HCG titers expectant management seems possible; following conservative treatment, monitoring of HCG until it becomes undetectable is mandatory. PMID- 2529823 TI - [Status of the fallopian tube following pelviscopic surgery (conventional versus laser) of tubal pregnancy]. AB - From 1984 to 1988, 136 patients with ectopic pregnancy were treated by endoscopic means. In 29 cases the fallopian tube was removed. In 107 patients conservative treatment was undertaken. The salpingotomy was performed with the endocoagulator and with scissors or using lasers. The postoperative status of the tube was controlled in 54 patients by hysterosalpingography (n = 17) or by second-look laparoscopy (n = 37). In 38 cases the patency test was positive. The incidence of postoperative adhesions was minimal after laser salpingotomy (16%). The complication rate was low (2%). PMID- 2529825 TI - [Zoladex as a depot GnRH agonist in premenopausal metastatic breast cancer]. PMID- 2529824 TI - [Diagnosis of tubal patency: hysterosalpingography, diagnostic pelviscopy and scanning electron microscopy of the fimbria epithelium]. PMID- 2529826 TI - [Effect of low-dose corticoid administration (prednisolone 7.5 mg) on the quality of gonadotropin-induced cycle stimulation]. PMID- 2529827 TI - [Combined GnRH agonist/hMG therapy and ovarian overstimulation syndrome]. PMID- 2529828 TI - [Combined GnRH analogs/hMG/hCG treatment]. AB - Ovarian stimulation with human menopausal gonadotropins after Gn-RH-analogue induced pituitary desensitization has been shown to optimize the follicular maturation. This is mostly due to the avoidance of irregular endogenous LG reactions which occur during hMG-therapy in about one third of the treatment cycles. In several studies using Buserelin or Decapeptyl as Gn-RH-analogue 282 patients were treated for in vitro fertilization, gamete intrafallopian transfer or as part of an "in vivo" therapy. Pregnancy rates were significantly improved in all groups: HMG/hCG therapy resulted in a pregnancy rate of 17% per patient whereas by the combined therapy in 25% of the patients a pregnancy was achieved. PMID- 2529829 TI - [Prospective perimenopausal estrogen-progestin substitution therapies for the prevention of osteoporosis]. PMID- 2529830 TI - [Differential use of cyproterone acetate in androgen manifestations in the female]. PMID- 2529831 TI - [Initial experiences and results with the GnRH agonist D-TRP 6 LHRH (decapeptyl CR) in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome]. PMID- 2529832 TI - Association between gold induced skin rash and remission in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. AB - The coincidence of skin eruption and remission induced by gold has not previously been reported. In 50 out of 247 patients with rheumatoid arthritis treated with gold salts (Solganal) between 1977 and 1987 treatment was stopped owing to adverse reactions. Skin rashes were present in 31 patients, 10 had nephropathy, and nine patients had aphthous stomatitis. All 31 patients who developed skin eruption entered a concomitant clinical and laboratory remission. The remission satisfied the American Rheumatism Association preliminary criteria and was accompanied by a significant decrease of mean erythrocyte sedimentation rate from 43 (SD 13) to 25 (11) mm/h. Disease was exacerbated in 23 patients after three to 60 months. Eight patients are in remission at present, five to 68 months after gold treatment was discontinued. In contrast, no remission was noticed among the 19 patients with nephropathy or stomatitis. PMID- 2529833 TI - [Antibiotic and phage sensitivity of cultures of Staphylococcus isolated from purulent foci and from carriers in a traumatological hospital]. PMID- 2529834 TI - [Enoximone and the therapeutic strategy in patients awaiting emergency cardiac graft]. AB - Enoximone is a positive inotropic agent belonging to the group of phosphodiesterase F-III inhibitors. The drug was tested in 34 patients uncontrolled by sympathomimetic drugs and referred to our department for urgent heart transplantation or circulatory assistance. After insertion of a Swan Ganzgatheter and a radial artery catheter for haemodynamic monitoring, enoximone was administered as a 15-minute intravenous bolus injection of 1 to 2.5 mg/kf every 8 hours, in addition to sympathomimetic agents. Clinical and haemodynamic improvement was observed after thirty minutes in 30 patients. The cardiac index rose from 1.82 to 2.67 l/min/m2 and the pulmonary wedge pressure fell from 30.8 to 18.9 mmHg. Systemic arterial resistance decreased from 2170 to 1520 dyn. s. cm 5, and pulmonary resistance from 5.5 to 4.6 Wood units (p less than 0.01 for all values). Four patients had no haemodynamic improvement and were put on circulatory assistance, using a Jarvik 7 total artificial heart in 3 of them and heterotopic circulatory assistance in one. After clinical investigation for contra-indication to heart transplantation, and as their improved haemodynamic status permitted, 12 of the 30 patients were considered suitable (group B) for heart transplantation. Transplantation was performed within a week of admission in 11 patients without any need for mechanical assistance. One of the group B patients who required implantation of a Jarvik 7 artificial heart died after 12 hours of assistance. Eighteen patients were considered unsuitable for transplantation (group A) and treated medically.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2529835 TI - Psychometric prediction of driving performance among the disabled. AB - A battery of psychometric and performance tests was administered to 25 subjects who were classified into able-bodied (n = 8), brain-injured (n = 10), and spinal cord injured groups (n = 7). All disabled subjects were regarded by their referring rehabilitation therapists as potential candidates for driver assessment. Data were analyzed to identify which measures were useful in differentiating among the groups and predicting driving performance. Results indicated that psychometric measures can be useful in predicting driving performance among disabled drivers. Nearly all the measures in the battery were significant predictors of driving ability, and some were highly predictive. The best was the oral version of the Symbol Digit Modalities test, which by itself accounted for 70% of the variance of the full-sized-vehicle driving score. Adding a second variable into a two-step multiple regression further increased the correlation between predictors and driving, accounting for almost 80% of the variance in driving score. These findings support the feasibility of developing a simple test battery to determine which disabled candidates are ready for in vehicle assessment, and which candidates are not ready without further evaluation of cognitive and performance skills. PMID- 2529836 TI - Scientific validity and the iliopsoas. PMID- 2529837 TI - Treatment of Paget-Schroetter syndrome. A staged, multidisciplinary approach. AB - A comprehensive approach to management of Paget-Schroetter syndrome was developed and applied to 25 consecutive patients. We studied 14 men and 11 women with an average age of 29 years, 17 of whom were either competitive athletes or industrial workers with onset of symptoms related to physical stress. Venous compression or thrombosis at the thoracic outlet was demonstrated in all patients, with similar abnormalities in the contralateral vein visualized in 12 of 15 patients studied. Eight of 17 patients had evoked potential loss of the brachial plexus peak (N9), and 21 patients had stress compression of the subclavian artery. Osseous or musculotendinous abnormalities were documented in 18 patients. Excellent functional results were obtained when initial treatment with high-dose local thrombolytic agents (11 patients) was followed by anticoagulation. Transaxillary first rib resection (17 patients) and balloon angioplasty (3 patients) were used in selected patients with residual symptoms or venous compression. PMID- 2529838 TI - [Changes in the functional activity of macrophages of the skin and regional lymph node after exposure of albino rats to total deep hyperthermia]. AB - In the experiments performed on white male rats (150-170 g of body mass) effect of total deep hypothermia has been studied in macrophages of the skin and regional suprascapular lymph node of various localization: Langerhans cells of the epidermis, histiocytes of the derm and hypoderm, macrophages of medullary sinuses, interdigitating cells of T-zones in the lymph node. After narcotization the animals are cooled with the rate 1 degree C per 5 min up to the rectal temperature of 18 degrees C. They are kept at this temperature for 2 h, and then are warmed with the same rate up to 37 degrees C. Actively phagocytizing macrophages of the skin and lymph node are revealed by their adsorption of trypan blue. The Langerhans and interdigitating cells of the lymph node are revealed by means of the ATP-ase method. After the cooling effect functional activity of macrophages with various localization increases. For the Langerhans cells it is manifested as a greater amount of the cells and their processes, for the interdigitating cells--as an elevated ATP-ase activity in 7 and 30 days after the experiment. Dermal histiocytes and macrophages of the lymph node sinuses respond to the cooling with an increasing adsorption of tripan blue. Amount of the cells, that adsorb the dye also increases. A conclusion is made that after the hypothermal effect protective-barrier properties of the dermal region increase. PMID- 2529840 TI - Examination of wheelchair-bound patients. PMID- 2529839 TI - [Morphologic changes of the coronary vessels in patients with congenital heart defects]. AB - Results of the study of the structural changes in the coronary vessels at various levels of ramification in patients with heart defects are presented and their role in the heart compensation and decompensation is shown. 127 hearts with congenital defects and 45 control children's hearts were studied. It is established, by means of anatomical, histologic and morphometric methods, that the heart defects are followed by the hypertrophy of the heart regions involved functionally, this being combined with an adaptive and pathologic rearrangement of coronary arteries and veins. The former is expressed in the vessels hyperplasia, thickening of their wall, and in the appearance in the vascular wall of oblique and longitudinal smooth myocytes (this is of importance for the maintenance of the heart compensation state). The latter is manifested in sclerosis, sometimes also thrombosis of the coronary arteries and veins this creating the basis for the heart failure. PMID- 2529841 TI - Evaluation of a maternity cushion (Ozzlo pillow) for backache and insomnia in late pregnancy. AB - The effect of a wedge-shaped pillow (Ozzlo pillow) was compared with a standard hospital pillow, used to support the abdomen of a pregnant woman while lying on her side, in preventing or alleviating backache and backache-related insomnia; 92 women at 36 weeks' gestation completed the study. Backache was found to be very common (87%), the onset of pain occurring before 29 weeks in 59%. Age, parity, previous backache and type of bed used did not correlate with the backache scores during the period of study. Lower scores for backache were recorded by women in the week they used the Ozzlo pillow compared with the week they used the standard pillow. Sleeping was deemed better by the patient with the Ozzlo pillow, though actual sleeping scores did not corroborate this. While significantly more felt the Ozzlo pillow was superior to a standard pillow for backache and sleeping, some found both methods helpful. The simple measure of supporting the abdomen with a pillow when in lateral recumbency is likely to benefit many women in late pregnancy. A wedge-shaped pillow of the Ozzlo type, conforming to the shape of the abdomen and supporting it more closely, may be of greater help than a standard cushion or pillow. PMID- 2529842 TI - Control of immune complexes by the classical pathway. AB - The association between inherited deficiencies of the classical pathway complement components (C1q, C1r, C1s, C4, C2 and C3) and immune complex disease shows that complement is involved in protection against the development of immune complex disease (ICD). This protection is conferred by the ability of the complement system to keep antigen antibody complexes (IC) small and soluble. Two mechanisms exist, prevention of immune precipitation (PIP), which inhibits the formation of large insoluble lattices when IC are formed in the presence of complement (nascent IC), and solubilisation of preformed immune precipitates (SOL). PIP is probably the more important as it is unlikely that, in vivo, IC are ever formed in the absence of complement. PIP displays an absolute dependency upon the classical pathway while SOL is alternative pathway dependent. However, for optimal efficiency SOL requires an intact classical pathway. Thus the classical pathway plays a role in both PIP and SOL. The end result of both processes is the covalent binding of C3b to the IC lattice, which not only keeps IC soluble, but permits binding to CR1 for removal from the circulation. The sera of patients with ICD contain a factor (s) which inhibits PIP. The sera of RA patients inhibits PIP and purified IgM-RF has been shown to inhibit this function. However a second inhibitor of PIP has recently been purified, a glycoprotein (Mr 60 kd) (gp60) which is present in normal serum and in increased concentration in RA sera. Gp60 binds to the Fc piece of IgG, but not to IgA or IgM, and competes with C1q for a binding site on IgG Fc. Thus gp60 appears to act by preventing binding and activation of C1 by IgG containing IC. PMID- 2529843 TI - Possible mechanisms of degradation of C1q in vivo and in vitro: role of macrophages. AB - Low levels of C1q may be found in sera of patients with diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, serum sickness and bacterial endocarditis. In vitro, C1q can be bound by immune complexes and induce activation of the proenzymes C1r and C1s, resulting in an activated C1 molecule. In the presence of C1-In in the reaction mixture C1r and C1s are dissociated rapidly from the immune complex-bound C1q. This C1q has the possibility to interact with free precursor C1r and C1s to form a new C1 molecule at the surface of the immune complex and induce a new cycle of activation. In vivo, however, such a possibility does not seem to play a major role, because low levels of C1q are found in various diseases which are thought to be mediated by immune complexes. Therefore we studied the clearance rate of C1q in rats in the presence and absence of soluble aggregates of IgG (AIgG). It was found that 125I-C1q is cleared from the circulation of rats with a halflife of 12.4 hrs and increasing concentrations of AIgG enhanced the clearance of 125I C1q in vivo. Studies in which various organs were analyzed for 125I-C1q indicated that the liver is the main site of clearance and that the Kupffer cells seem to play a major role. These, and other in vitro studies, indicate that in vivo complement activation, may contribute to a higher degree of turnover of C1q in vivo and cause depletion of circulating C1q.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2529844 TI - Does successful angioplasty restore coronary flow reserve? PMID- 2529845 TI - Measurement of coronary blood flow velocity in humans using a subselective intracoronary Doppler catheter. PMID- 2529847 TI - Some comments on the type references of the official nomenclature (IUB) for beta N-acetylglucosaminidase, beta-N-acetylhexosaminidase and beta-N acetylgalactosaminidase. PMID- 2529846 TI - Calpain I activation is not correlated with aggregation in human platelets. AB - Calpain-catalysed hydrolysis of platelet substrates such as cytoskeletal and calmodulin-binding proteins, and of protein kinase C, is assumed to contribute to platelet aggregation. We have measured calpain I activation by immunoblotting, and [Ca2+]i (cytoplasmic Ca2+ concn.) by fura-2 fluorescence, in parallel with measurement of aggregation, in stirred human platelets treated at different [Ca2+]ext (extend Ca2+ concns.) with A23187, leupeptin, phorbol ester and thrombin. Hydrolysis of actin-binding protein, and [3H]5-hydroxytryptamine release, were also measured in some cases. A rise in [Ca2+]i, platelet aggregation and calpain activation often occurred together. With some combinations of agonists and [Ca2+]ext, however, this correlation was clearly not maintained. It was shown: (a) that activation of calpain and its hydrolysis of platelet substrates were not strictly necessary conditions for platelet secretion and aggregation; (b) conversely, that calpain activation could occur without aggregation. PMID- 2529848 TI - Delta-elimination in the repair of AP (apurinic/apyrimidinic) sites in DNA. AB - [5'-32P]pdT8d(-)dT7, containing an AP (apurinic/apyrimidinic) site in the ninth position, and [d(-)-1',2'-3H, 5'-32P]DNA, containing AP sites labelled with 3H in the 1' and 2' positions of the base-free deoxyribose [d(-)] and with 32P 5' to this deoxyribose, were used to investigate the yields of the beta-elimination and delta-elimination reactions catalysed by spermine, and also the yield of hydrolysis, by the 3'-phosphatase activity of T4 polynucleotide kinase, of the 3' phosphate resulting from the beta delta-elimination. Phage-phi X174 RF (replicative form)-I DNA containing AP (apurinic) sites has been repaired in five steps: beta-elimination, delta-elimination, hydrolysis of 3'-phosphate, DNA polymerization and ligation. Spermine, in one experiment, and Escherichia coli formamidopyrimidine: DNA glycosylase, in another experiment, were used to catalyse the first and second steps (beta-elimination and delta-elimination). These repair pathways, involving a delta-elimination step, may be operational not only in E. coli repairing its DNA containing a formamido-pyrimidine lesion, but also in mammalian cells repairing their nuclear DNA containing AP sites. PMID- 2529849 TI - Stimulation of calcium-ATPase activity by 3,5,3'-tri-iodothyronine in rat thymocyte plasma membranes. A possible role in the modulation of cellular calcium concentration. AB - We have previously demonstrated that 3,5,3'-tri-iodo-L-thyronine (T3) produces a very rapid and transient increase in calcium uptake and cytoplasmic free calcium concentration in the rat thymocyte, and have postulated that Ca2+-ATPase may contribute to the overall effect of T3 on cellular calcium metabolism. In the present study, we show that in the rat thymocyte, T3 increased plasma membrane Ca2+-ATPase activity. This effect of T3 was very rapid, seen at 30 s after the addition of the hormone, and was concentration-related, evident at a physiological concentration as low as 1 pM. Evaluation of the effect of several thyronine analogues on Ca2+-ATPase activity revealed the following order of potency: D-T3 greater than or equal to 3'-isopropyl-L-T2 = L-T3 = L-T4 = D-T4 greater than L-rT3 greater than 3,5-L-T2 greater than DL-thyronine. Studies with the calmodulin antagonist trifluoperazine demonstrated that thymocyte Ca2+-ATPase activity and its stimulation by T3 are influenced by calmodulin. Other studies showed that several adrenergic agents, agonists and antagonists, had no effect on thymocyte Ca2+-ATPase activity and its stimulation by T3. From these and previous observations, we would suggest that in the rat thymocyte, the T3-induced increase in Ca2+-ATPase activity, which enhances the expulsion of calcium from the cell, plays a role in the diminution and transiency of the stimulatory effect of T3 on thymocyte calcium metabolism. PMID- 2529850 TI - Ectoenzymes of the kidney microvillar membrane. Isolation and characterization of the amphipathic form of renal dipeptidase and hydrolysis of its glycosyl phosphatidylinositol anchor by an activity in plasma. AB - Renal dipeptidase (EC 3.4.13.11) has been solubilized from pig kidney microvillar membranes with n-octyl-beta-D-glucopyranoside and then purified by affinity chromatography on cilastatin-Sepharose. The enzyme exists as a disulphide-linked dimer of two identical subunits of Mr 45,000 each. The purified dipeptidase partitioned into the detergent-rich phase upon phase separation in Triton X-114 and reconstituted into liposomes consistent with the presence of the glycosyl phosphatidylinositol membrane anchor. The N-terminal amino acid sequence of the amphipathic, detergent-solubilized, form of renal dipeptidase was identical with that of the hydrophilic, phospholipase-solubilized, form, locating the membrane anchor at the C-terminus of the protein. The glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol anchor of both purified and microvillar membrane renal dipeptidase was a substrate for an activity in pig plasma which displayed properties similar to those of a previously described phospholipase D. The cross-reacting determinant of the glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol anchor was generated by incubation of purified renal dipeptidase with bacterial phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase c, whereas the anchor-degrading activity in plasma failed to generate this determinant. PMID- 2529851 TI - Human plasma fibronectin as a substrate for human urokinase. AB - An early event in malignant transformation is the increased expression of proteases, such as plasminogen activator, which can degrade surrounding extracellular matrices, thereby conferring an advantage for tumour cell invasion and metastasis. The present studies provide evidence that plasma fibronectin (Fn), which is a component of the extracellular matrix, is a direct substrate for the plasminogen activator urokinase (UK). Human plasma Fn was incubated with human UK under plasminogen-free conditions. Fn cleavage was both time- and dose dependent and was evident within 30 min. The proteolytic digestion was limited and complete within 12 h at an enzyme/substrate ratio of 1:20. Analysis of the final proteolytic digestion products demonstrated the disappearance of the native dimeric 440 kDa structure of Fn with the concomitant appearance of three proteolytic fragments of 210, 200 and 25 kDa. Since two large fragments of similar size to the 220 kDa monomeric chains of Fn were obtained following proteolysis, it is proposed that UK cleaves Fn at two sites, one towards the N terminal and one close to the C-terminal, but N-terminal to its interchain disulphide bonds. These studies suggest that the local proteolytic digestion and release of Fn from the extracellular matrix by tumour cells possessing high levels of UK may involve the direct proteolytic breakdown of Fn by UK. PMID- 2529853 TI - Phosphofructokinase from baker's yeast: kinetic properties of a proteolytically modified enzyme. AB - A tetrameric enzyme form of phosphofructokinase from yeast (called 12 S-enzyme), formed by limited proteolysis of the octameric enzyme in the presence of ATP and by subsequent dissociation in two half-molecules shows sigmoidal kinetics with respect to fructose 6-phosphate and inhibition by ATP. Similar to the native phosphofructokinase, the modified enzyme is also efficiently activated by AMP and fructose 2,6-bisphosphate. Both activators increase the affinity for the substrate fructose 6-phosphate and the respective maximum activity. In contrast to the native phosphofructokinase, however, both AMP and fructose 2,6 bisphosphate change the sigmoidal fructose 6-phosphate velocity curve into a hyperbolic one. AMP and fructose 2,6-bisphosphate decrease the ATP inhibition, probably by modulating the affinity of the allosteric sites to ATP. PMID- 2529852 TI - Effect of a heparan sulphate with high affinity for antithrombin III upon inactivation of thrombin and coagulation factor Xa. AB - The kinetics of inhibition of human alpha-thrombin and coagulation Factor Xa by antithrombin III were examined under pseudo-first-order reaction conditions as a function of the concentration of heparan sulphate with high affinity for antithrombin III. The maximum observed second-order rate constant was, for the antithrombin III-thrombin reaction, 1.2 x 10(9) M-1.min-1 compared with 2.4 x 10(9) M-1.min-1 in the presence of high-affinity heparin. However, the maximum rate was catalysed by much higher concentrations of heparan sulphate (1.3 microM) than of heparin (0.025 microM). Differences were also observed in the maximal acceleration of the antithrombin III-Factor Xa interaction: 1.2 x 10(9) M-1.min-1 at 0.2 microM-heparin sulphate compared with 2.2 x 10(9) M-1.min-1 at 0.04 microM heparin. The differences in properties of heparan sulphate and heparin were analysed by using the random bi-reactant model of heparin action [Griffith (1983) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 80, 5460-5464]. It was observed that the apparent binding affinity for thrombin was higher for heparan sulphate (180 nM) than for heparin (14 nM). The rate constant for transformation of the antithrombin III Factor Xa complex into irreversible product differed between heparan sulphate (96 min-1) and heparin (429 min-1). These properties of the high-affinity heparan sulphate may be of importance in consideration of a putative role in the control of intravascular haemostasis. PMID- 2529854 TI - Kinetics of 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase from Saccharomyces cerevisiae: inhibition of the enzyme by ATP. AB - 6-Phosphofructo-2-kinase (PFK-2) was purified from yeast and separated from fructose-2,6-biphosphatase (FBPase-2). The purification procedure involved polyethylene glycol fractionation followed by chromatography on DEAE-Sephacel. PFK-2 and FBPase-2 were copurified in these steps. Separation of the two enzymes resulted from Sephacryl S-300 Blue chromatography. Then, PFK-2 was chromatographed on CM-Sephadex and eluted with a gradient of KCl. Finally, PFK-2 was rechromatographed at CM-Sephadex and specifically eluted with fructose 6 phosphate. PFK-2 (specific activity 1.3 U/mg) was purified about 25,000-fold. The enzyme is inhibited by ATP which is particularly pronounced at low concentrations of magnesium and fructose 6-phosphate. Phosphoenolpyruvate and sn-glycerol 3 phosphate are inhibitors of the enzyme. PMID- 2529855 TI - Diabetes-like action of intermittent fasting on sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-pump ATPase and myosin isoenzymes can be prevented by sucrose. AB - Experimental diabetes results in a reduction of the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+-stimulated ATPase activity and a redirection of myosin isoenzymes from V1 to V3. Similar, but less pronounced, changes were induced by subjecting rats to intermittent fasting for 6 weeks. Low amounts of sucrose (0.8%) in the drinking water prevented the subcellular changes in fasted rats; however, sucrose neither affected the levels of plasma thyroid hormones nor normalized the reduced body weight. Plasma glucose was lowered without any changes in plasma insulin in the fasted rats receiving sucrose; this suggested an enhanced peripheral glucose utilization. Thus, the signals in the diabetic heart leading to changes in SR and myosin can be mimicked by intermittent fasting and seem to be linked to a shift in fuel utilization by the myocytes. PMID- 2529856 TI - Site directed mutagenesis of the beta-subunit of the yeast mitochondrial ATPase. AB - Site directed mutagenesis has been performed on the gene coding for the beta subunit of the yeast mitochondrial F1-ATPase. Two different regions were studied. First, the corresponding yeast amino acid, Tyr-344, which was affinity labeled in the bovine enzyme was changed to Phe-344 and Ala-344. The Phe-344 enzyme was completely active and less sensitive to the affinity reagent, 4-chloro-7 nitrobenzofurazan. In contrast, the in vivo level of the Ala-344 enzyme was greatly diminished and apparently inactive. The second region studied is in the glycine rich region homologous in nucleotide binding proteins. Five different replacements were made and all mutations but one completely eliminated the biological activity and reduced the in vivo level of the mutant peptides. These results support the importance of these amino acids in the function of the ATPase. PMID- 2529857 TI - Amino acid sequence and relative biological activity of eel atrial natriuretic peptide. AB - A peptide exhibiting vasodepressor and natriuretic activities in rats was isolated from eel atria, and its primary structure was determined as H-Ser-Lys Ser-Ser-Ser-Pro-Cys-Phe-Gly-Gly-Lys-Leu-Asp-Arg-Ile-Gly-Ser-Tyr-Ser- Gly-Leu-Gly Cys-Asn-Ser-Arg-Lys-OH. This peptide, termed eel atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), has sequence homology of 59% to mammalian (human or rat) ANP, 52% to fowl ANP, and 46% to frog ANP. When the biological activity of synthetic eel ANP was compared with that of human ANP, the eel peptide was 110 times more potent for the vasodepressor activity in eels, nearly equipotent for the vasodepressor activity in quails, and 20 times less potent for the vasodepressor and natriuretic activity in rats. PMID- 2529858 TI - UK-69,578, a novel inhibitor of EC 3.4.24.11 which increases endogenous ANF levels and is natriuretic and diuretic. AB - A search for potent inhibitors of EC 3.4.24.11, an enzyme which is found most abundantly in the kidney and which degrades atrial natriuretic factor, has led to the identification of UK-69,578. Structure-activity studies starting from substituted N-carboxymethyl dipeptide inhibitors resulted in the introduction of a cyclo-alkane P1' residue and in the replacement of the aza-link between P1 and P1' residues by a methylene group, with a net ten-fold potency gain. UK-69,578 increases endogenous ANF levels and produces natriuretic and diuretic responses intravenously in mice. PMID- 2529859 TI - Serum keratan sulfate levels in rabbits with experimentally induced osteoarthritis. AB - Serum keratan sulfate (KS) levels were measured with an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay using monoclonal antibody (MAb) 5-D-4 (anti-KS) in a rabbit model of osteoarthritis (OA) induced by partial meniscectomy. The partial medial meniscectomy produced pathologic changes of OA in the joints of the rabbits, which were seen when the animals were killed at 3, 6, 9, or 12 weeks postsurgery. Tibial or femoral osteophytes were seen in up to 90% of the operated joints; pitting and ulceration of medial femoral condyles were also frequently noted (77% of cases). Rabbits that underwent sham surgery, back-skin-operated rabbits, or nonoperated normal rabbits served as controls; the joints of these animals were normal at the time of killing. A rise in the level of serum KS was recorded in 50% of rabbits following partial meniscectomy, but this was matched by similar changes in the control groups. The mean serum KS level of the OA animals at serial intervals (3, 6, 9, or 12 weeks) following surgery was not significantly different from that in the control groups. When measured with a second MAb, 2-D 3, KS levels showed similar trends as with MAb 5-D-4, although lower assay values were obtained. These findings indicate that experimentally induced OA in rabbits is not associated with a significant rise in serum KS levels. KS levels did not differentiate OA from non-OA animals, nor did they parallel disease progression. PMID- 2529860 TI - ASHA: pioneer in augmentative communication. PMID- 2529862 TI - Trospectomycin enhances surface phagocytosis of Bacteroides and Staphylococcus by altering the bacterial glycocalyx. AB - The influence of trospectomycin on phagocytosis of Bacteriodes thetaiotaomicron, Bacteroides fragilis and Staphylococcus epidermidis was studied in the presence or absence of glycocalyx isolated from these microorganisms. Bacteria were grown with or without 0.25 or 0.5 of the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of trospectomycin, a new chemically synthesized analog of spectinomycin. Surface phagocytosis by human polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNL) was determined using a modified fluorochrome assay. Subinhibitory concentrations of trospectomycin significantly enhanced surface phagocytosis of Bacteroides and Staphylococcus. When homologous or heterologous isolated glycocalyx was added to trospectomycin treated bacteria prior to incubation with PMNL, phagocytosis was reduced to levels observed in the untreated bacteria. Addition of glycocalyx to untreated strains produced no significant reduction of phagocytosis. The glycocalyx preparations were free of lipopolysaccharide and did not affect PMNL viability. PMID- 2529861 TI - Synthesis and 5HT-receptors affinity of some 4-phenylquinoline derivatives. AB - The synthesis of a series of 4-phenylquinolines with substituents in 2,3 and 6 position of the quinoline nucleus is described. Serotoninergic activity towards 5HT1A, 5HT1B, 5HT2, 5HT1A + B receptors and the 5-HT-uptake site was also studied. PMID- 2529863 TI - Effects of quipazine in evoked potentials recorded in the cingulum of the cat. AB - The present study describes the changes in electroencephalogram (EEG), behavior, and visual evoked potentials (VEPs) recorded in some structures of the limbic system of freely moving cats which had been administered two different doses of quipazine through different routes (5 mg/kg i.p. and 10 mg/kg i.v.). After the low dose of quipazine, the EEG from the cingulum developed a 6 c/s spike and wave activity. The amplitude of the P150 component of VEPs in the cingulum recording increased, while the VEPs recorded in visual cortex were barely affected. Simultaneously the animals displayed exploratory movements towards objects undetected by observers. The changes found in the cingulum with the tested doses may be due to specific actions of the drug on the polysensorial pathways. The high dose produced a rage reaction accompanied by a generalized spiking, intermixed with high voltage-low frequency waves, and an increase in VEPs in all recorded structures. At high doses the drug may be producing a discordance between the sensorial pathways and those in charge of the emotional processes. PMID- 2529864 TI - Glial cells as suppressor cells: characterization of the inhibitory function. AB - Rat retinal glial cells (Muller cells) profoundly suppress antigen-driven activation, as well as the subsequent interleukin-2 (IL-2)-dependent expansion of autoimmune and conventional-immune syngeneic T-helper lymphocytes, through a contact-dependent mechanism. Characterization of this inhibitory function showed that some activation parameters of autoimmune T-helper lymphocytes specific to the retinal soluble antigen, responding to antigen presented on syngeneic antigen presenting cells, were differentially affected by coculture with Muller cells. In contrast to endogenous IL-2 production, IL-2-receptor generation and proliferation, the production of interleukin-3 and of interferon-gamma were not inhibited. Inhibition of IL-2-supported proliferation of cells which had already generated the IL-2 receptor was markedly potentiated in the presence of the specific antigen, in a dose-dependent manner. The extent of inhibition was proportional to the number of Muller cells in the culture. The suppression appeared not to involve a major histocompatibility complex (MHC) Class II-related interaction and could act across allogeneic and even xenogeneic barriers. Inhibition affected normal lymphocytes, including primed T cells responding to antigen or to IL-2, unprimed spleen cells responding to the T-cell mitogen concanavalin A (Con-A) and, to a lesser extent, unprimed spleen cells responding to the B-cell mitogen bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Several permanently transformed cell lines of mouse, rat and human origin were not affected. These results may suggest participation of organ-resident cells in regulation of locally occurring immune processes. PMID- 2529865 TI - Pilot trial to prevent type I diabetes: progression to overt IDDM despite oral nicotinamide. PMID- 2529866 TI - Sequence similarities between chicken intestinal 110-kDa ATPase and myosin I-like enzymes. AB - We report the partial amino acid sequence of chicken intestinal microvillar 110 kDa protein that, as a complex with calmodulin, has previously been shown to exhibit myosin-like ATPase and actin-binding activities. The sequence shows a high degree of similarity to the sequence of a novel vertebrate myosin I-like heavy chain encoded by a cDNA isolated from bovine intestine. This confirms that the bovine and chicken proteins are the first examples of Acanthamoeba myosin I like proteins from higher eukaryotes. Comparison of available structural and functional data leads us to postulate that the myosin I family of proteins result from the fusion of a conserved myosin headlike motor domain, with variable COOH terminal domains responsible for binding to specific intracellular structures. PMID- 2529867 TI - [Active surveillance for dengue and dengue hemorrhagic fever]. AB - Dengue and dengue hemorrhagic fever are emerging as major public health problems in most tropical countries. Effective prevention and control programs will depend on improved surveillance. A new approach to active surveillance is outlined with emphasis on the interepidemic period. The objective is to develop an early warning surveillance system than can predict epidemic dengue. Virologic surveillance is the most important in an early warning system. Dengue virus transmission should be monitored to provide information on which serotypes are present, their distribution, and the type of illness associated with each serotype. Other components of the active surveillance system include fever alert and clinical surveillance for severe and fatal disease associated with viral syndrome. Individually, each component is not very sensitive, but collectively, they provide an early warning capability that allows detection of newly introduced dengue virus serotypes well in advance of epidemic transmission. With such information, emergency mosquito control can be implemented and major epidemics averted. PMID- 2529868 TI - [The cockroach as a vector of pathogenic agents]. AB - Cockroaches are arthropod transmitters of disease, acting both as mechanical vectors and as reservoirs of pathogenic agents. It has been shown that cockroaches harbor and transmit, both in nature and under experimental conditions, about 40 species of bacteria, including at least 25 from the Enterobacteriaceae group that cause gastroenteritis in man. In addition, it has been established that these insects are intermediate hosts of pathogenic helminths, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. It is possible that cockroaches contribute to the transmission of Chagas' disease by feeding on triatomine vectors of that disease. There also are signs that substances produced by cockroaches are involved in certain allergic processes. The foregoing facts are sufficient to justify the immediate control and eradication of these insects whenever and wherever they constitute a threat to public health. PMID- 2529869 TI - [Treatment of asthma in the emergency clinic of a pediatric hospital]. AB - At the end of 1983 a change was made in the treatment of children presenting with acute asthmatic attacks in the emergency clinic at a pediatric hospital in Costa Rica. The use of epinephrine was abandoned in favor of salbutamol in spray form and short-term treatment with glucocorticoids. This new regime, compared with the previous one, reduced hospitalizations and readmissions for asthma by nearly 70%, as well as the average hospital stay (3.5 days vs. 5 days). PMID- 2529870 TI - [Seroprevalence of antibodies against Trypanosoma cruzi in 13 departments of Uruguay]. AB - In 1985 a study was undertaken of the prevalence of Trypanosoma cruzi antibodies in 13 departments of Uruguay where transmission of the parasite by the vector Triatoma infestans persists. A total of 5,924 serum samples were selected using a probabilistic method--3,840 from individuals over the age of 12 (sample I) and 2,084 from subjects who were 12 years old (sample II). The population was classified according to place of residence (capital city, non-capital city, suburban area, and rural area). The percentage of positive sera detected by indirect immunofluorescence in the different departments ranged from 1 to 11%, and overall seroprevalence for the area was 3.4%. Based on the results obtained, it was possible to distinguish three areas: A, with seroprevalence from 6 to 11%; B, 2 to 3.2%, and C, 1 to 1.4%. In sample II from the Departments of Paysandu, Soriano, Flores, Florida, and Durazno, no cases of Chagas' disease were detected, which suggests that there is no active transmission of T. cruzi in this age group in the area studied. The number of persons estimated to have the disease was 36,952, or 1.3% of the total population of Uruguay and 4% of the population in the area surveyed. These seroprevalence figures are similar to those recorded in the province of Entre Rios, Argentina, and in the neighboring municipalities of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. PMID- 2529871 TI - [Application of the negotiated process method to primary health care for women]. AB - Since 1984 the University of Illinois School of Public Health in Chicago has been offering the course "Women's Health: A Primary Health Care Method." The objectives of the course are to develop a model to meet the health needs of urban women in industrialized countries and to teach post-graduate students from various health-related programs to work as members of interdisciplinary teams with groups of women in communities. This activity involves the use of the negotiated process method, the purpose of which is to train students and the community group to work together and separately on solutions to identified health problems. During the course given in 1985 this method was applied to analyzing the problem of battered women in a Latin American community. Although the results were satisfactory, other similar experiments should be conducted to determine its usefulness more precisely. PMID- 2529872 TI - Chronic administration of SCH 23390 enhances spontaneous searching and locomotor activity of rats. An open field study. AB - The influence of dopamine D1 receptor supersensitivity, induced by repeated SCH 23390 administration, on rat spontaneous behavior was studied in an open field test. The frequency of line crossing, rearing and looking-into-holes episodes was evaluated as a part of the locomotor and exploratory behavior. SCH 23390 was injected subcutaneously in a dose of 0.5 mg/kg, one injection per day for 21 days. Controls were injected with isotonic saline. When the open field test was applied one day after the last treatment, all the tested parameters were significantly enhanced in rats treated repeatedly with SCH 23390. The effects were diminished after 3 days and had almost disappeared after 7 days. It is argued that supersensitivity of dopamine D1 receptors is responsible for the increase in locomotion and exploration. PMID- 2529873 TI - Treatment of acute salpingitis with sulbactam/ampicillin. AB - The combination of sulbactam/ampicillin was compared to cefoxitin for the treatment of acute salpingitis in 40 women divided into two groups of 20 women each. There were 11 patients in each group who were given doxycycline because of evidence of chlamydial infection. All patients were diagnosed by laparoscopic examination and evaluated by the same procedure 7-12 weeks later. At the second laparoscopy, only 1 of the 20 patients (5%) treated with sulbactam/ampicillin had severe adhesions, while 6 of the 20 patients (40%) treated with cefoxitin had severe adhesions. Tubal patency was without obstruction in 14 patients (70%) given the combination treatment and in 12 patients (60%) given cefoxitin. Side effects were essentially absent in both groups. PMID- 2529874 TI - Basic mechanisms of IgE-mediated hypersensitivity. PMID- 2529875 TI - Immunology of experimental oncogenesis. PMID- 2529876 TI - Immune response to specific human tumors. PMID- 2529877 TI - Decidual cellular responses. PMID- 2529878 TI - Blood transfusion and constituent transfusion. PMID- 2529879 TI - Effects of disability and bereavement on the mental health and recovery of older adults. AB - We investigated the role of two major stressors, recent disability and conjugal bereavement, in older adults' self-reports of mental health and recovery from stress. A sample of 246 older adults between the ages of 60-80 was interviewed monthly for 3 months by trained elderly interviewers; Month-10 interview data were also analyzed. Control subjects, who were not experiencing the stressors, were carefully selected from a sample of adults matched on age, sex, and socioeconomic status. Dependent variables were psychological distress and psychological well-being, each with component subscales. The disabled group evidenced significantly lower positive well-being and significantly greater distress than did the other groups. Bereaved subjects demonstrated high levels of depression compared with the disabled subjects, but showed less anxiety. Bereaved subjects showed recovery on several indicators of mental health, but disabled subjects continued to show considerable psychological upset in comparison with the other groups. PMID- 2529881 TI - Acute effects of exposure to cold on blood pressure, platelet function and sympathetic nervous activity in humans. AB - To clarify the mechanism for cold-related thrombosis, we evaluated responses of blood pressure, platelet function, and sympathetic nervous activity after cold exposure in ten healthy male volunteers (33 +/- 2 years old). Mean blood pressure, beta-thromboglobulin, platelet factor 4, and plasma noradrenaline were increased after cold exposure associated with significant falls in skin, oral, and urine temperature. The increase in plasma noradrenaline significantly correlated with the change in platelet aggregation (3 microM ADP: r = 0.73, P less than .02, 3.0 micrograms/mL epinephrine: r = 0.65, P less than .05), and with mean blood pressure in the warn environment (r = 0.76, P less than .02). These results suggest that the cold-related increase in sympathetic nervous activity may contribute to enhancement of platelet function. This provides a possible explanation for the risk of thrombosis in cold weather in essential hypertension. PMID- 2529880 TI - Myocardial collagen and mechanics after preventing hypertrophy in hypertensive rats. AB - To determine if a remodeling of the collagen matrix would occur in the absence of hypertrophy and cell necrosis and if such a remodeling could alter active and passive stiffness of the intact myocardium, five rats with genetic hypertension (SHR) were treated (SHRT) with hydralazine for 32 weeks, beginning at four weeks of age, and compared to six age- and sex-matched SHR and seven Wistar-Kyoto genetic control rats (WKY). Left ventricular (LV) weight of SHRT was 17% lower (P less than .001) than that of SHR and 19% higher (P less than .01) than that of WKY. Collagen volume fraction of SHR (13.7 +/- 3.2%) and SHRT (9.9 +/- 1.8%) were greater (P less than .01) than WKY (5.0 +/- 1.9%). Diastolic and systolic stress strain relations were determined in the isolated heart. A comparison of these relations revealed: 1) a 24% increase in passive stiffness for SHR and SHRT; and 2) a reduced zero-strain intercept (41% to 54%) and slope (36% to 48%) of the developed stress-strain relation for the SHRT. Thus, in SHR, collagen remodeling occurred in the absence of hypertrophy which suggests that the muscular and collagenous compartments of the myocardium are under separate controls. The excess accumulation of collagen in SHR and SHRT leads to abnormal passive stiffness, and the prevention of hypertrophy with hydralazine reduces active stiffness. PMID- 2529882 TI - Night backache in pregnancy. Hypothetical pathophysiological mechanisms. AB - One hundred women responded to a questionnaire dealing with night backache during pregnancy. All the women were in the second half of their pregnancy. Sixty seven per cent of the women reported discomfort and/or backache during the night. We hypothesize that hypervolemia combined with obstruction of the inferior vena cava, caused by the enlarging uterus, is the underlying pathomechanism leading to night backache. Patients with inadequate venous collateral circulation may develop excessive pressure within the venous system, the vertebral bodies and overdistension of venous channels distal to the occluded zone. These changes may lead to hypoxemia, metabolic disturbances, irritation of unmyelinated nerves and result in night backache. PMID- 2529883 TI - Regionally-specific alterations in mesotelencephalic dopamine synthesis in diabetic rats: association with precursor tyrosine. AB - The effect of diabetes-induced chronic tyrosine (Tyr) deficiency on dopamine (DA) synthesis in different areas of the mesotelencephalic DA system was examined. Diabetes was induced using streptozotocin. In vivo Tyr hydroxylation was used as an index of DA synthesis. The brain areas examined were prefrontal cortex (PFC), pyriform cortex (PYR), olfactory tubercle (OT), caudate-putamen (CP), substantia nigra (SN), and ventral tegmental area (VTA). Significant decreases in Tyr hydroxylation were observed in PFC, CP, and PYR. The largest decrease was seen in the PFC. Variations in tissue Tyr levels were shown to account for 62% of the variability in Tyr hydroxylation in the PFC, and 23% of the variability in the CP; a significant correlation between Tyr levels and Tyr hydroxylation was not seen in the other brain areas. The mechanisms underlying this regionally selective effect, and possible clinical relevance are discussed. PMID- 2529885 TI - Uses of the HOME inventory for families with handicapped children. AB - The use of the HOME Inventory with families of children with handicaps was described. Normative and psychometric information for the Infant-Toddler, Early Childhood, and Middle Childhood versions of the Inventory was provided for groups of children with diverse handicaps and groups of children with mental retardation. Moderate correlations were observed between HOME and family social status measures, minimal between HOME and life stress measures, and low to moderate between HOME and social support measures. Low to moderate correlations were observed between HOME and child competence measures. PMID- 2529884 TI - Stress and coping among parents of handicapped children: a multidimensional approach. AB - The relations of child characteristics, family social network, parent belief systems, and coping styles to parent outcome were examined with parents of 48 young handicapped children. Child characteristics predicted mothers' and fathers' parenting stress and fathers' psychological distress. Parental belief systems predicted all three parent outcomes for mothers and fathers. Coping styles predicted psychological distress and fathers' family adjustment. Social network predicted family adjustment and fathers' psychological distress. Psychological distress was low in mothers who had either a positive belief system or a noncritical family network. Findings support the value of a multidimensional examination of family characteristics that mediate the impact of a child's handicap. PMID- 2529886 TI - Measurement characteristics of a short form of the questionnaire on resources and stress. AB - The psychometric integrity of a short form of a measure of ecological stress was evaluated based on data provided by both fathers and mothers representing intact families, half of which included children with handicaps and half of which did not. Alpha reliability, factor structure, and construct validity analyses generally supported the conclusion that the short form of the Questionnaire on Resources and Stress is reasonably reliable and valid. PMID- 2529887 TI - Quantitative effects of speckle reduction on cross sectional echocardiographic images. AB - Speckle is prominent on all cross sectional echocardiograms. In order to assess its effects on image quantification, frames from a sector scanner with a six bit grey scale were stored and processed off line to identify and smooth the speckle by means of an adaptive filter based on fully developed speckle. In 14 controls, 12 patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and 12 with secondary left ventricular hypertrophy, filtering significantly reduced the standard deviation of echo intensity, which was used as a measure of the scatter of pixel amplitude, in all three groups (by 52%, 46%, and 46% respectively). The mean value of back scattered echo intensity itself, however, was reduced by only 7%, 5%, and 8% respectively, and median values were not affected at all. Mean (SD) left ventricular cavity areas on the apical four chamber view were significantly increased from 26 (15) to 30 (17) cm2. The valve dimensions in the parasternal minor axis in 10 patients with mitral stenosis were significantly increased by 11% laterally, but were unaffected anteroposteriorly. Subjective image quality was appreciably modified: endocardial boundaries in apical views were enhanced and the septal "ground glass" appearance was lost in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Speckle reduction therefore greatly reduced the scatter of pixel values, with little effect on the mean regional back scattered echo amplitude. It also modified the perceived image texture. Improved boundary definition consistently increased the area estimates, particularly when these depended on lateral rather than range resolution. PMID- 2529888 TI - Premedication determines the circulatory responses to rapid sequence induction with sufentanil for cardiac surgery. AB - Thirty-three patients undergoing elective aortocoronary bypass were allocated randomly to receive morphine 0.1 mg kg-1 i.m. and either lorazepam 50 micrograms kg-1 by mouth or hyoscine 6 micrograms kg-1 i.m. before rapid sequence induction of anaesthesia with sufentanil 5 micrograms kg-1 i.v.and suxamethonium 1 mg kg-1 i.v. Following induction and tracheal intubation, patients premedicated with hyoscine had a significantly higher mean heart rate, mean arterial pressure, cardiac index and left ventricular stroke-work index than patients premedicated with lorazepam. The incidence of new myocardial ischaemia was low in both groups. PMID- 2529889 TI - Arrhythmias during laparoscopy. PMID- 2529890 TI - The MTT assay underestimates the growth inhibitory effects of interferons. AB - The growth inhibitory effects of interferons, IFN-alpha and IFN-gamma on human lung cancer cell lines were studied using both a tetrazolium (MTT) colorimetric assay and direct cell counting. Significant discrepancies between the two assays were observed, the MTT assay consistently underestimating the growth inhibitory effects of the IFNs. There was no direct chemical effect of the IFNs on the tetrazolium reduction process. IFN treated cells showed increased cell size compared with control cells, although there was little or no change in cell cycle distribution. Mitochondrial activity was 30-50% greater in IFN-gamma treated cells (COR-L23) than the controls. Reduced formazan production per cell was observed in medium which had supported cell growth for several days. Differential 'medium conditioning' led to a difference in formazan production per cell between IFN and control cells and this was the major basis of the observed discrepancy. This discrepancy was not due to the differences in the glucose concentrations between these media. However, differences in pH between the media proved to be the major contributory factor of the discrepancy. PMID- 2529891 TI - Expression of MHC class II, interleukin 2 receptor and CD45 antigens on tumour associated T lymphocytes in colonic carcinoma. PMID- 2529892 TI - A prospective randomised controlled trial of tamoxifen and cyproterone acetate in pancreatic carcinoma. AB - In a prospective controlled clinical trial, 108 patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma were randomly allocated to receive tamoxifen 20 mg b.d., cyproteron acetate 100 mg t.d.s. or no active treatment. The median survival of those receiving tamoxifen was longer than either of the other two groups (5.25 compared to 4.25 and 3 months, respectively) but this difference did not achieve statistical significance. Cox regression analysis of 12 clinical and biochemical features showed that, for the entire group of patients, survival was significantly longer in younger patients, those undergoing surgical bypass and those with better initial performance status. However, even when adjustment was made to allow for the distribution of these prognostic variables within the three groups, the difference in survival still did not achieve statistical significance. No side-effects attributable to treatment was observed. PMID- 2529894 TI - Acitretin monotherapy in Darier's disease. AB - The dose response relationship to acitretin in five patients with Darier's disease was investigated. The patients received in the first 3 months 35 mg daily, and the dose was adjusted according to the clinical response. Four of the five patients showed a marked improvement with up to total clearance, although in two patients isomorphic reactions due to a relative overdose were seen. These isomorphic reactions improved with a reduction of dose. We suggest that treatment with acitretin is initiated at 10-25 mg daily with gradual adjustment of the dose. PMID- 2529893 TI - A double-blind trial of treatment of seborrhoeic dermatitis with 2% ketoconazole cream compared with 1% hydrocortisone cream. AB - Fifty patients with seborrhoeic dermatitis were treated with 2% ketoconazole cream (n = 24) or with 1% hydrocortisone cream (n = 26) for 4 weeks in a double blind comparative study. These twice daily applications resulted in 87.2% symptomatic improvement for hydrocortisone vs. 81.6% for ketoconazole. The number of P. ovale yeasts was significantly reduced after the application of ketoconazole compared with hydrocortisone. The incidence of side-effects was low in both groups. PMID- 2529895 TI - Blistering, erosions and scarring in a patient on etretinate. AB - A case is reported of a patient who developed blistering of the skin followed by ulceration and scarring while on treatment with etretinate. PMID- 2529896 TI - Exfoliative dermatitis due to nifedipine. AB - We report the case of a 63-year-old Caucasian female, with reno-vascular hypertension, who developed a generalized skin eruption with lichenoid histological features, induced by nifedipine. A repeat challenge with nifedipine confirmed that it was the causative agent. PMID- 2529897 TI - Recurrent hypothermia in a West Indian. PMID- 2529898 TI - Rosacea induced by PUVA therapy. PMID- 2529899 TI - Plasma beta-endorphin concentrations during suckling in lactating women. AB - Beta-endorphin appears to be involved in the hormonal response to suckling in some animals. The peripheral secretory patterns of beta-endorphin, prolactin and cortisol were investigated in serial venous blood samples taken during suckling from eight healthy women who were breast-feeding on the third or fourth day of the puerperium. Plasma levels of prolactin and beta-endorphin increased significantly during suckling reaching a peak after 20 min, levels of cortisol remained unaffected. It is suggested that the increased beta-endorphin derives from an extra-hypophyseal source. PMID- 2529900 TI - Mass laparoscopic sterilizations. PMID- 2529901 TI - A total of 250,136 laparoscopic sterilizations by a single operator. AB - A total of 250,136 women were sterilized as outpatients by a single operator working with a team in ad hoc sterilization 'camps'. Falope rings were applied by the laparocator under local anaesthesia, with premedication but without vaginal manipulation (in all but the first 10,100). Volunteers were recruited and the operation discussed in nearby villages. The women were numbered at registration and arranged in groups, each comprised of two rows (odd or even numbers) of 15 women, leading to two improvised operating tables or benches in a steep Trendelenburg position. With good teamwork the number of women sterilized was generally 40 to 50/h. There were 12 associated deaths, not all attributable to the procedure, a mortality rate of 4.8 per 100,000; 8 major complications (3.2 per 100,000) required laparotomy or admission to hospital. In a follow-up survey of 84,940 responders to a questionnaire only 90 pregnancies (0.1%) were reported to have been conceived after the cycle of surgery. The results suggest that the rapid 'no exposure' technique as used in this series is safe and acceptable in an Indian context. If others could acquire this skill it could with appropriate adaptation make appreciable inroads into the unmet need for female sterilization in many other developing countries. PMID- 2529902 TI - A new operation for vaginal agenesis: construction of a neo-vagina from a rectus abdominus musculocutaneous flap. PMID- 2529903 TI - Regulation of eukaryotic transcription factors by post-translational modification. PMID- 2529905 TI - Symmetry in F1-type ATPases. PMID- 2529904 TI - Esterification of dehydroepiandrosterone by human plasma HDL. AB - Evidence for metabolic esterification of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in human blood plasma, identification of the active lipoprotein (LP) subclass involved, namely HDL3, as well as positive identification of the long-chain fatty acid esters of DHEA formed as incubation products is presented. The esterification reaction of DHEA and subsequent transfer and transport of DHEA esters in human plasma appears to proceed in a manner similar to that of cholesterol. The experiments presented serve as a model predicting similar metabolic transformations during HDL3 interactions with other steroid hormones that have the delta 5-3 beta-hydroxy steroid ring structure and exhibit nonequilibrium associations with HDL. These observations imply that significant quantities of DHEA, particularly in the conjugated ester form, can enter cells via the membrane receptor-mediated pathways of LP internalization. PMID- 2529906 TI - Modifications of the relative proteolipid composition in the ATP synthase of a respiratory competent mutant of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. AB - A comparative study of the proteolipid composition of the F0-sector of the ATP synthase of wild-type strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and of nuclear mutants, modified at the level of the oxidative phosphorylation due to an enhanced proton permeability of the inner membrane, was carried out. Analysis of the crude proteolipid extract by electrophoresis and high liquid performance chromatography showed some differences at the level of mitochondrial DNA encoded proteolipids. Subunit 6 and in particular subunit 8 were present in reduced amounts, whereas subunit 9 was present in equal amounts in both types of strain. However, the phosphate binding affinity of subunit 8 was the same in wild-type and mutant strains. The fact that subunit 6 and subunit 8 are cotranscripted on a single mRNA led to the problem of the regulation of the mitochondrial synthesis of these two proteins by a nuclear gene. PMID- 2529907 TI - Immunoelectron microscopic localization of the F1F0 ATPase (ATP synthase) on the cytoplasmic membrane of alkalophilic Bacillus firmus RAB. AB - Evidence that the F1F0 ATPase (ATP synthase) of alkalophilic Bacillus firmus RAB is localized exclusively on the cytoplasmic membrane was obtained by immunogold electron microscopy using a highly specific polyclonal antibody against the beta subunit of Escherichia coli F1F0 ATPase. The energetic problem faced by cells of B. firmus RAB growing oxidatively at pH 10.5 despite a low protonmotive force across the cytoplasmic membrane cannot, therefore, be circumvented by localization of energy transducing functions on hypothetical internal membranes. PMID- 2529908 TI - Quinacrine inhibits the calcium-induced calcium release in heavy sarcoplasmic reticulum vesicles. AB - Quinacrine is a fluorescence probe useful for studying the effect of local anesthetics. The interaction of quinacrine and sarcoplasmic reticulum membranes measured by fluorescence spectroscopy indicates the presence of a saturable binding site. Typical local anesthetics are able to displace quinacrine bound to heavy sarcoplasmic reticulum membranes. The effectiveness of that displacement decreases in the order dibucaine greater than tetracaine greater than benzocaine greater than lidocaine greater than procaine greater than procainamide, indicating that the size and hydrophobicity of quinacrine are major determinants in the binding process. The use of radioactive tracer and a rapid filtration technique reveals that quinacrine interacts, at lower concentrations, with sarcoplasmic reticulum membranes by blocking the Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release. Higher quinacrine concentrations also affect the Ca2+-pump activity. PMID- 2529909 TI - Structure-function relationships of mitochondrial ATPase-ATPsynthase using Schizosaccharomyces pombe yeast mutants with altered F1 subunits. AB - Phenotypic revertants have been selected from mutants of the yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe devoid of either alpha or beta subunits of mitochondrial ATPase-ATPsynthase. In contrast to parental mutants, phenotypic revertants are able to grow on glycerol respiratory medium and show immunodetectable alpha and beta subunits. However, growth and cellular respiration are only partially restored as compared to the wild strain, indicating that the recovered subunits are mutated. ATPase activity of revertant submitochondrial particles shows markedly different parameters: more acidic optimal pH, absence of bicarbonate activation and decreased sensitivity to azide inhibition in the alpha subunit-modified R3.51. Opposite differences are observed in the beta subunit-modified R4.3: more alkaline optimal pH, much higher bicarbonate activation, and increased sensitivity to azide. The ITPase activity of R4.3 submitochondrial particles is also more sensitive to azide as compared to the wild strain. ATPase activity of purified F1 also exhibits marked differences: loss of bicarbonate-sensitive negative cooperativity, decreased sensitivity to both ADP and azide inhibitions in the R3.51 revertant. On the contrary, increased negative cooperativity and increased sensitivity to both ADP and azide inhibitions are observed for the R4.3 revertant enzyme which in addition exhibits a much lower maximal rate. The beta subunit-mutation of R4.3 also increases the sensitivity of ITPase activity to tripolyphosphate inhibition, whereas the alpha subunit-mutation of R3.51 is without any effect. Soluble F1 with beta subunit mutation is very sensitive to high ammonium sulfate concentrations required for enzyme precipitation and concentration and known to partially deplete the enzyme from its endogenous nucleotides. On the contrary, poly(ethylene)glycol is very efficient for preparing from any strain a pure and very stable enzyme retain-ing high amounts of endogenous nucleotides. The R4.3 revertant F1 retains even more nucleotides than the wild-strain F1 and is much less sensitive to high iodide concentrations which favor enzyme dissociation and precipitation. The tryptophan intrinsic fluorescence of F1 is modified by both mutations that increase the maximal emission intensity. The most important effect is produced by beta subunit mutation which decreases the quenchable fraction, one-third to one-half tryptophans being no longer accessible to iodide. The overall results suggest that both mutations modify enzyme-nucleotide interactions: the alpha subunit mutation of R3.51 would favor ADP release by lowering interactions with the adenine moiety, whereas the beta subunit-mutation of R4.3 would lower ADP release by strengthening interactions with the phosphate chain moiety. PMID- 2529910 TI - [Interaction of alkali metal ions with Ca2+-binding center of Ca2+- ATPase of the sarcoplasmic reticulum in skeletal muscles]. AB - Sodium ion interaction with sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) membranes leads to considerable alterations of the [23Na]NMR lineshape. Na+ binding to SR in the presence of Ca2+ and H+ is well described by a model which postulates a competitive ion binding to high and low affinity sites of Ca2+-ATPase. The dissociation constant, Kd, for high and low affinity sites is 5 and 10 mM, respectively, for Na+ and (3-5).10(-8) and 1.5.10(-3) M, respectively, for Ca2+. The pK value for high and low affinity sites is 7.3 and 6.1, respectively. Other alkaline metal ions compete with Na+ for the low affinity sites of Ca2+-ATPase; their affinities decrease in the following order: Na+ = K+ greater than Rb+ greater than Cs greater than Li+. Some of the Na+ binding sites (approximately 10%) do not interact with Ca2+. PMID- 2529911 TI - [Formation of taurine and amino acid pools in rat tissues upon stimulation of NAD synthesis]. AB - A single intraperitoneal injection of nicotinamide (500 mg/kg) to mongrel albino rats causes a 6-hour increase in the 2-oxoglutarate level and the free NAD+/NADH ratio in liver mitochondria. The levels of taurine and taurocholates as well the activity of cysteine oxidase in liver tissues remains thereby unchanged, whereas the cysteine transaminase activity diminishes. In the heart and brain of experimental animals the activity of both enzymes is decreased. In the liver, blood plasma and heart of experimental animals, the Ala and Ser levels are low, whereas the taurine content is elevated both in blood plasma and brain. Nicotinamide administration eliminates positive correlations between the levels of taurine, its precursors and metabolically bound amino acids. In the liver the negative correlations between the activities of cysteine oxidase and cysteine transaminase observed in the control group disappear in the experimental group. Apparently, one of regulatory mechanisms of the taurine pool formation in the liver is the ratio of activities of the both enzymes as well as their competition at the substrate level. This emphasizes the importance of the transamination reactions in the metabolism of sulphur-containing amino acids. PMID- 2529912 TI - Effect of caffeine on cerebral blood flow velocity in preterm infants. AB - A continuous-wave form Doppler monitor was used to examine the effect of caffeine on cerebral blood flow velocity (CBFV) in 7 clinically stable preterm neonates suffering from apnea. Caffeine, in the form of caffeine citrate, or saline were given intravenously at loading doses of 20 mg/kg. Every subject was his own control. Placebo (saline) was systematically injected prior to caffeine citrate. Simultaneous recording of heart rate, arterial blood pressure, respiratory rate, TcPO2, TcPCO2 were made before, then at the end of the injection, and 30, 60 and 120 min after the end of each administration of either placebo or caffeine. Compared with placebo, caffeine injection was not associated with significant changes in CBFV. An increase was found in both heart-rate and respiratory rate (p less than 0.05). Mean arterial blood pressure, TcPCO2 and TcPO2 did not change significantly. Our data suggest that a caffeine citrate loading dose of 20 mg/kg as currently used at the beginning of treatment of apnea in preterm neonates has no effect on CBFV. PMID- 2529913 TI - In vitro and in vivo effects of erythrocyte phototherapy on newborns. AB - The photodynamic action of the bilirubin is associated with severe consequences observed during 'in vitro' irradiation of the erythrocytes. This paper is designed to evaluate the bilirubin photodynamic effects which occur 'in vitro' and 'in vivo' on erythrocytes in healthy and jaundiced infants. The in vitro bilirubin sensitized photoreaction damages the erythrocytes mainly at the membrane level. In particular, a dramatic decrease of ATPase activity and an increased susceptibility to lipid peroxidation, expressed as malondialdehyde production, were observed. For in vivo studies, specific fluorescent probes have been used to verify probable changes on the functional architecture of the erythrocyte membrane in the phototherapy-treated infants. Our results showed that specific areas of the membrane are differently affected, mainly at lipid/protein interface. Although the role of the erythrocyte membrane is an important factor of the hemorheological behavior, the measurement of blood viscosity and erythrocyte aggregation and filtration did not show significant alterations during the overall time of phototherapy. PMID- 2529914 TI - Trophoblast/leukocyte-common antigen is expressed by human testicular germ cells and appears on the surface of acrosome-reacted sperm. AB - The murine monoclonal antibody H316 reacts with a cell-surface antigen of human trophoblast, leukocytes, certain epithelia, and several malignant cell types. We have found that the H316 antibody also recognizes an antigen synthesized by pre- and post-meiotic human testicular germ cells and is expressed in the acrosomal region of methanol-fixed testicular, epididymal, and ejaculated sperm. The antigen is poorly expressed on the surface of fresh ejaculated motile sperm, but is detectable on most viable sperm after a 6-h incubation in medium containing human serum albumin (HSA), or 60-min incubation with the calcium ionophore A23187 (both treatments induce sperm acrosomal changes termed capacitation and acrosome reaction). We found that antigen recognized by H316 is immunoprecipitated as a single, broad 50 kDa band from radiolabeled ionophore-treated sperm extracts and that preincubation of HSA-capacitated sperm with this antibody causes a moderate, but significant, inhibition of hamster egg penetration. These data indicate that the antigen recognized by the H316 monoclonal antibody is synthesized by testicular germ cells and is surface-expressed on capacitated/acrosome-reacted sperm populations. Its potential as a human sperm acrosome reaction marker, and possible biological role in sperm-egg or sperm-lymphocyte interactions, warrants further investigation. PMID- 2529915 TI - Comparative study of the thromboresistance of Dacron combined with various polyurethanes. AB - In vitro tests were carried out on Dacron samples differently knitted and on Dacron vascular prostheses coated with various urethanes. All the materials were put in contact with human platelet-rich plasma; the subsequent assay of three platelet released substances, i.e. beta-thromboglobulin, platelet factor 4 and thromboxane B2, as well as the quantification of platelet retention, were used to establish the degree of thrombogenicity of the material itself. In some cases Dacron-urethanes composites showed better thromboresistance than any other materials conventionally used in vascular surgery. PMID- 2529916 TI - [Effects of atrial natriuretic factor on the cardiovascular system and several parameters of renal excretory function in spontaneously hypertensive rats]. AB - The influence of atrial natriuretic factor on several parameters of cardiovascular system and renal excretory function in spontaneously hypertensive rats has been investigated. The exogenously administered atrial natriuretic factor, not influencing the arterial pressure level and electrolyte concentration in the urine, at the same time breaks the links between APmax and the intensity of electrolyte excretion in urine. PMID- 2529917 TI - [Selective action of chorionic gonadotropin on lymphocyte subpopulations]. AB - Influence of chorionic gonadotropin on induction and formation of specific T suppressors, TDTH-effectors and spontaneous killer cells, depending on its doses and schema of injections was studied. It is shown that chorionic gonadotropin has a stimulating effect on precursors of T-suppressors, not affecting the mature specific T-suppressors, causes damage to the TDTH-effectors and spontaneous killer cells, that permits chorionic gonadotropin to be recognized as an immunomodulating agent. PMID- 2529918 TI - [Modeling of the "universal" bone marrow using monoclonal antibodies]. AB - The data on the application of monoclonal antibodies (ICO-10) and rabbit complement for working the conditions of allogeneic bone marrow transplantation are presented in the paper. The treatment with monoclonal antibodies and bone marrow complement from BALB/c mice for 2 times prevented the development of transplant versus host reaction and completely protected lethally irradiated (CBA X X C57B1/6)FI mice-recipients from death. Thymus atrophy and the absence of T cells in the peripheral blood was observed in these mice. The erythrocytes had markers characteristic of BALB/c and (CBA X C57B1/6)FI mice. Mouse splenocytes did not respond to the cells of donors and recipients in mixed lymphocyte culture reaction. PMID- 2529919 TI - [Study of thermo-stabilizing effect of tocopherol on rhodopsin in the presence of fatty acids using the method of differential scanning calorimetry]. AB - By the method of differential scanning calorimetry it was shown that the addition of arachidonic acid to photoreceptor membranes is accompanied by concentration dependent shift of thermograms curve of rhodopsin value. Addition of tocopherol to photoreceptor membranes prevents the turbulent effect of the fatty acid on opsin and rhodopsin. The obtained data are discussed from the point of view of membrane protective properties of tocopherol. PMID- 2529920 TI - [Effects of antagonists of exciting amino acids on the neuro-destructive effect of quinolinic acid in vitro in comparison with their anticonvulsive action in situ]. AB - A comparative study of the influence of kynurenic acid (KYNA), L-kynurenine (KYN) and ethylimidazole-4-5-dicarboxylic acid (IEM-1442) on neuro-destructive effect of quinolinic acid (QUIN) in hippocampal cell cultures of mouse embryos and on convulsive action of QUIN after its injection into the brain ventricles of adult mice was performed. In presence of KYNA the neuronal destruction in vitro didn't occur under QUIN exposure, while in situ KYNA had no effect on convulsive action of QUIN. On the other hand, KYN and IEM-1442 didn't block the neurodegenerative action of QUIN in vitro, whereas in situ these compounds showed the anticonvulsant, effect. The results obtained suppose, that some anticonvulsants, preventing convulsive effects of QUIN, are not antagonists of the receptors, which mediate its neurodegenerative action. PMID- 2529921 TI - [Effects of humoral factors of the mastocytoma P815 cells on the formation of allospecific killers in mixed culture of lymphocytes and their cytotoxic activity]. AB - The influence of the P-815 mastocytoma cells and their humoral factors, contained in culture supernatant and ascitic fluids on the generation of allospecific cytotoxic T-cells (alloCTL) in mixed culture of lymphocytes was studied. Both tumor cells and humoral factors were shown to inhibit generation of allospecific killers. Normal spleen cells and peptonic ascites of DBA/2 mice did not indicate immunosuppressive activity. Immunosuppressive factors did not affect CTL effector function (lysis of target cells). Both tumor cells and immunosuppressive factors did not exert toxic effect on mouse splenocyte. The suppressive effect of tumor cells and humoral factors was not associated with their cytotoxic action on lymphocytes. PMID- 2529922 TI - [Comparative analysis of pregnancy proteins and regulation of the functional activity of T-suppressors in pregnancy]. AB - The relationship between the pregnancy specific proteins (SP1, SP3) and the functional activity of ConA-induced T-suppressors has been studied during normal gestation. There were a positive correlation between the activity of T suppressors and the level of SP1 during 8-28 weeks of gestation; between the activity of T-suppressors and the level of SP3 during 8-36 weeks, especially during 29-36 weeks of gestation. It was shown that a progressive accumulation of these proteins apparently necessary for the formation a suppression's dominant in the condition of the immunoregulatory branches during gestation. These findings suggest that SP1 and SP3 as a natural endogenous immunoregulators may play an important role in reproductive strategy of human gestation. PMID- 2529923 TI - Effect of aspirin on platelet-von Willebrand factor surface expression on thrombin and ADP-stimulated platelets. AB - Platelets contain a pool of endogenous platelet-von Willebrand factor (vWF) that becomes expressed on the platelet surface when platelets are stimulated by a variety of agonists. Maximal platelet-vWF expression occurs in concert with platelet alpha-granule secretion. Aspirin (ASA) is known to impair platelet activation and alpha-granule secretion by irreversible inhibition of platelet cyclo-oxygenase. We studied native and ASA-treated platelets for their ability to mobilize and to express platelet-vWF in response to adenosine diphosphate (ADP) or thrombin. We found that each agonist was effective in promoting increased platelet-vWF surface expression on native and ASA-treated platelets. ASA-treated platelets responded identically to native platelets to low (0.01 U/mL) and high (1.0 U/mL) concentrations of thrombin, while the ADP-induced increase in ASA treated platelets was only 50% to 60% of that for control platelets. Measurement of secreted platelet-vWF and beta-thromboglobulin indicated that the increase seen with ADP was largely independent of alpha-granule secretion. Using monoclonal antibodies (MoAbs) against the platelet glycoproteins (GP) IIb/IIIa and Ib (MoAbs 10E5 and 6D1, respectively), we demonstrated that the ADP-induced increase in platelet-vWF expression on control platelets primarily involved the binding of secreted platelet-vWF to the platelet GPIIb/IIIa. In contrast, the increase in platelet-vWF that occurred following ADP stimulation of ASA-treated platelets was largely insensitive to GPIIb/IIIa blockade. No effect of GPIb blockade in platelet-vWf expression was noted for either control or ASA-treated platelets. When platelet shape change was prevented by the addition of cytochalasin D, ADP-induced platelet-vWf surface expression on ASA-treated platelets was reduced by more than 80%. Our data indicate that platelets in which the cyclooxygenase pathway is blocked by the action of aspirin can increase surface expression of platelet-vWf as a consequence of platelet shape change. We speculate that this process exposes platelet-vWf bound to GPIIb/IIIa, or possibly GPIb, within the surface connected canalicular system. PMID- 2529924 TI - Nucleoside transport and proliferative rate in human thymocytes and lymphocytes. AB - The thymus is a site of active T-lymphoid cell proliferation and DNA synthesis. In this study, the capacity of human thymocytes for nucleoside transport was assessed both by cytosine arabinoside influx and by equilibrium binding of nitrobenzylmercaptopurine riboside (NBMPR), a specific ligand for the equilibrative nucleoside transporter of leukocytes. The proportion of freshly isolated thymocytes synthesizing DNA was 8.6% +/- 2.1% (n = 12) by 3H-thymidine labeling index and 7.8% +/- 2.9% (n = 4) S-phase cells by flow cytometric analysis of DNA content. In comparison, both methods gave proliferation S-phase values less than 1% for peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs). Thymocytes expressed a high density of specific NBMPR binding sites (26,068 +/- 8,776 sites per cell, n = 12) as compared with PBLs (1,123 +/- 553 sites per cell, n = 8). The initial influx of cytosine arabinoside into thymocytes was 14-fold greater than into PBLs, and in both cell types the influx of nucleoside was totally inhibited by 0.5 mumol/L NBMPR, which is known to inhibit the major equilibrative nucleoside transporter in white blood cells. Depletion of mature CD3+ cells from the thymocyte preparation by anti-CD3 antibody left a residual population with both increased labeling index and up to twofold greater density of NBMPR binding sites. When PBLs were cultured for 48 hours with the T-cell mitogen phytohemagglutinin, a 40-fold increase in labeling index was observed, together with a 30-fold increase in the density of specific NBMPR binding sites. Thus, fresh thymocytes from human thymus are actively proliferating and express high densities of a functional nucleoside transporter. The more immature cells in the thymocyte population which are proliferating more actively have a greater density of nucleoside transporters than the whole population. In contrast, mitotically inactive PBLs-have few nucleoside transporters, but after mitogenic stimulation PBLs express large numbers of this transmembrane molecule. PMID- 2529925 TI - Analysis of junctional diversity in the preferential V delta 1-J delta 1 rearrangement of fresh T-acute lymphoblastic leukemia cells by in vitro gene amplification and direct sequencing. AB - To define the junctional diversity of T-cell antigen receptor delta gene rearrangements in fresh T-acute lymphoblastic cells and to correlate cell phenotype with the coding potential of rearrangements, we determined the junctional nucleotide sequences of 13 T-cell antigen receptor delta gene rearrangements involving the preferentially rearranged V (V delta 1) and J (J delta 1) segments using in vitro gene amplification and direct sequencing. We showed that, as in gamma delta+ cell lines, extensive junctional diversity exists in these clones and that this diversity is due both to random nucleotide deletions/additions and to the use of at least two D delta segments. We also showed that a high percentage of these rearrangements are potentially translatable (7:13) and that such functional rearrangements occur in both surface CD3+ and CD3- cells. Comparison of alpha beta versus gamma delta surface expression demonstrates that all CD3+ T acute lymphoblastic leukemias with a functional V delta 1-J delta 1 rearrangement express a surface gamma delta receptor and are recognized by the anti-delta monoclonal antibody delta TCS1, whereas a control CD3+ gamma delta+ leukemic case that had not undergone V delta 1 rearrangement was delta TCS1-. In addition, expression of this monoclonal antibody is not restricted by V gamma or C gamma usage or by the covalent or noncovalent link between gamma and delta chains. PMID- 2529926 TI - Inversion of chromosome 7 in ataxia telangiectasia is generated by a rearrangement between T-cell receptor beta and T-cell receptor gamma genes. AB - Specific and recurrent chromosomal rearrangements are often observed in the karyotypes of phytohemagglutinin-stimulated lymphocytes. The percentage of cells demonstrating these rearrangements is dramatically increased in the genetic disease ataxia telangiectasia. Inversion of chromosome 7 represents approximately half of the chromosomal rearrangements in this disease. Because the chromosomal locations of the inv(7) breakpoints coincide precisely with those of the T-cell antigen receptor (TCR) beta and gamma genes, it has been hypothesized that this rearrangement may occur by recombination between those two loci. Here, we present direct evidence that inversion of chromosome 7 in ataxia telangiectasia is generated by site-specific recombination between a TCR gamma variable segment and a TCR beta joining segment. PMID- 2529927 TI - Graft failure after T-cell-depleted human leukocyte antigen identical marrow transplants for leukemia: II. In vitro analyses of host effector mechanisms. AB - To identify mechanisms potentially contributing to graft failure, 19 leukemic recipients of T-cell-depleted marrow transplants who failed to engraft following a transplant of HLA identical sibling marrow depleted of T cells by soybean agglutinin (SBA) and sheep erythrocytes (E) were evaluated. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated at the time of failure were consistently of host origin, bearing the phenotype of suppressor T cells (CD3+, CD8+, Leu 7+). A direct cytolytic effect on 51Cr-labeled donor-derived target cells was not detected, a finding that contrasts with the donor-specific cytotoxic host T lymphocytes that have been regularly observed in patients rejecting HLA nonidentical SBA -E- BMTs. However, these host T cells did exhibit a strong and specific suppressive activity against the donor marrow CFU-GM in vitro. Furthermore, in contrast to prior findings in durably engrafted recipients of SBA -E- BMTs, the lymphocytes isolated prior to or at the time of graft failure lacked natural killer surface antigen expression and effector function. PMID- 2529928 TI - Hematopoiesis in vitro coexists with natural killer lymphocytes. AB - The role of natural killer (NK) lymphocytes in the regulation of human hematopoiesis is controversial. NK-mediated inhibition of colony formation of hematopoietic progenitor cells has been irregularly reported for various cell lineages. In an effort to clarify such disparate findings, we studied the interaction of clearly defined NK and partially purified progenitor cell populations. Cell sorter purified CD16 positive blood NK cells and enriched autologous marrow progenitors were co-incubated at various lymphocyte to marrow cell ratios and then cultured in methylcellulose. There was no inhibition of myeloid, erythroid, or mixed colony formation. Similarly, activation of CD16 positive lymphocytes by interleukin-2 (IL-2) before co-incubation and co-culture did not result in inhibition of colony formation. Furthermore, in a newly designed assay system, we demonstrated that NK cells, which did not modulate colony-formation, remained capable of recognizing and killing rare K562 target cells seeded within the marrow cell population. Our results indicate that unstimulated and IL-2 activated isolated blood NK cells coexist with functioning autologous marrow progenitors in vitro. PMID- 2529929 TI - Effect of interferon-alpha on the expression and release of the CD23 molecule in hairy cell leukemia. AB - Hairy cells are stimulated to DNA synthesis by low molecular weight B cell growth factor (LMW-BCGF) and this proliferative response is suppressed by interferon (IFN)-alpha, both in vitro and in vivo. The suggestion that the CD23 molecule (Fc epsilon II receptor) might be involved in the signalling pathway of LMW-BCGF prompted us to study the expression of this molecule on hairy cells and its modulation by IFN-alpha. By flow cytometry and direct binding experiments with anti CD23 monoclonal antibodies, the presence of the CD23 antigen was detected in 7 of 12 cases tested, on variable percentages of cells, ranging from low to medium expression. In vitro incubation of hairy cells with IFN-alpha, which elicits a suppression of the proliferative response of these cells to LMW-BCGF, induced a parallel significant reduction of CD23 expression in only three cases. Similarly, a transient in vivo decrease of CD23 expression, concommitant with an inhibition of the LMW-BCGF response, could be detected in only one of three patients injected with IFN-alpha. Soluble sCD23/IgE-binding factor (BF) was quantitated in the serum from six other patients with hyperleukocytic hairy cell leukemia (HCL) undergoing a clinical trial of IFN-alpha therapy. Before treatment, these patients presented higher concentrations of the cleaved soluble form of the CD23 molecule than normal controls. Within a few weeks of IFN-alpha administration, these levels markedly decreased, paralleling a diminution of blood leukemic cells. Of interest, no such diminution was noticed for another patient resistant to IFN-alpha therapy. These results show that the proliferative response of hairy cells to LMW-BCGF is not linked to the expression of the CD23 marker. Besides, when the latter molecule was present, its decrease following IFN alpha treatment, which could be detected in some cases, was not necessarily required for the suppression of the LMW-BCGF response and is thus not mandatory for the therapeutic efficacy of IFN-alpha. Our results point out that quantitation of serum sCD23/IgE-BF, whether related to a process of autocrine proliferation or not, is a parameter of potential importance for therapy monitoring. PMID- 2529930 TI - T-lymphoblastic lymphomas expressing the non-disulfide-linked form of the T-cell receptor gamma/delta: characterization with monoclonal antibodies and genotypic analysis. AB - Three cases of T-lymphoblastic lymphomas (T-LL) expressing the T cell antigen receptor gamma delta (TCR gamma delta) are reported. All of them were CD3+/beta F1-/TCR delta 1+. Moreover, neoplastic cells reacted with the delta TCS1 monoclonal antibody (MoAb) which binds to the non-disulfide-linked form of the TCR gamma delta, but not with the BB3 MoAb which recognizes the disulfide-linked form of the TCR gamma delta. All cases showed a stage II cortical phenotype, eg, TdT+/CD1+/CD3+/CD5+/CD7+; two of them coexpressed CD4/CD8, while the other was CD4+/CD8-. Two cases were positive for CALLA and CD25. Immunogenotypic analysis showed evidence of T beta and C gamma 2 gene rearrangements in all three cases and immunoglobulin (Ig) gene rearrangements in two cases. Two patients presented with an anterior mediastinal mass and the third with a solitary inguinal lymphadenopathy. We suggest that these cases of TCR gamma delta+ T-LL may be derived from the small population (approximately 0.5%) of CD3+ cortical thymocytes which, in the normal human thymus, express the delta TCS1-reactive, non-disulfide-linked form of the TCR gamma delta. PMID- 2529931 TI - Postnatal hematologic development in phosphofructokinase-deficient dogs. AB - Adult dogs with phosphofructokinase (PFK) deficiency have compensated hemolytic anemia, due to an absolute or functional deficiency of the muscle-type (M-type) subunit that normally accounts for a majority of total erythrocyte PFK activity in dogs. Potential effects of PFK deficiency on hematologic development were evaluated in dogs. Routine hematologic parameters were similar in normal and affected dogs when 1 day old, because all newborn dogs had erythrocyte PFK activities about three times that of normal adult dogs. Based on chromatographic separation of PFK isozymes and enzyme immunoprecipitation studies, the high PFK activity at birth was attributed to the predominance of the liver-type (L-type) subunit of PFK, which is negligible or absent in normal adult dog erythrocytes. Both total PFK activities and the amounts of L-type subunit present decreased dramatically during the first 6 to 8 weeks of life. The muscle-type subunit was negligible or absent at birth, but appeared and increased as the L-type decreased in normal dogs. These changes may result from the replacement of erythrocytes formed in the fetus with those formed after birth. A postnatal physiologic anemia developed to a similar degree in both affected and normal dogs because of decreases in both mean corpuscular volume and erythrocyte numbers. Reticulocyte counts were high in all dogs at birth and remained high in affected dogs, but decreased from 2 months of age onward in normal dogs. Erythrocyte 2,3 diphosphoglycerate (DPG) values were very low in all newborn pups and increased to values expected for adults in the respective groups by 2 to 4 weeks of age. A low 2,3-DPG concentration occurs in affected dogs because PFK deficiency inhibits glycolysis above the side shunt that forms 2,3-DPG. PMID- 2529932 TI - [The posterior sacral plexus]. AB - The posterior sacral branches, when connecting, form the posterior sacral plexus and its terminal branch, the posterior gluteal nerve that we suggest be called the inter-gluteal nerve because of its course and territory. Apart from their anatomic interest, their lesions can explain some neuralgias in sacrococcygeal attacks. PMID- 2529933 TI - Determination of the new aromatase inhibitor CGS 16 949 in biological fluids by capillary gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. AB - A specific and sensitive gas chromatographic/mass spectrometric method was developed and validated for the quantitative determination of the aromatase inhibitor CGS 16 949 in plasma and urine. A deuterium-labelled analogue of CGS 16 949 was used as internal standard. The analysis of spiked samples demonstrated the good accuracy and precision of the method. For both plasma and urine, the limit of quantification (LOQ: coefficient of variation (CV) = 10%) and the limit of detection (LOD: CV = 100%) were estimated to be 5 and 1 nmol l-1, respectively. The method was applied to the determination of unchanged CGS 16 949 in plasma and urine of a healthy volunteer orally dosed with 1 mg of CGS 16 949 A. PMID- 2529934 TI - On the use of laser microprobe mass spectrometry for the analysis of organic biomolecules. AB - Laser microprobe mass spectrometry has been applied to a variety of organic polyfunctional molecules, covering a wide range of polarity and mass spectrometric behaviour. The technique apparently combines desorption under relatively soft conditions with extensive fragmentation and hence allows much structural information from intactly released thermolabiles to be obtained. The mass spectra appear unfamiliar in comparison to conventional techniques. Interpretation is attempted in a purely empirical way by means of the evidence from our database and tentative hypotheses to rationalize the desorption and ionization by laser microbeam irradiation of organic solids. Selected examples are presented to illustrate the potential and limitations of the method in the field of biomolecules, such as pyridoxine and pyridoxal phosphate, nucleosides, nucleotides and related analogues, drugs and the corresponding N-oxides. PMID- 2529935 TI - Bone disorder in cardiomyopathic hamsters. AB - Bones of cardiomyopathic hamsters (UM-X7.1 Syrian hamsters), at 5, 10 and 20 weeks of age, were compared chemically and histomorphologically with those of normal Syrian hamsters. Femurs of UM-X7.1 hamsters were significantly shorter than those of normal hamsters, and the mean dry weight, mean volume, mean ash weight per unit bone volume and mean ash as a percentage of dry weight of femurs were all significantly less in UM-X7.1 hamsters. The bone disorder preceded the myocardial calcium precipitation and myocardial hypertrophy in the cardiomyopathic hamsters. In addition, the percentage of cortical area measured on the cross-section of tibia and the appositional rate of bone minerals, determined by a tetracycline labelling technique, were also lower in the UM-X7.1 hamsters. These findings suggest that the bone disorder was associated with decreased bone formation in the UM-X7.1 Syrian hamsters. PMID- 2529936 TI - Release of atrial natriuretic factor after pericardiocentesis for malignant pericardial effusion. PMID- 2529937 TI - Immunisation against hepatitis B among NHS staff in West Midlands Regional Health Authority. PMID- 2529938 TI - Response of the south Manchester accident rescue team to the earthquake in Armenia and the Lockerbie air disaster. PMID- 2529939 TI - Depot medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) and risk of breast cancer. AB - OBJECTIVE: To determine whether use of the injectable contraceptive depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (Depo-Provera) affects the risk of breast cancer in women. DESIGN: A population based case-control study. SETTING: Nationwide community study. SUBJECTS: 891 Women aged 25-54 with newly diagnosed breast cancer were compared with 1864 women selected at random from the electoral rolls. INTERVENTION: Women were interviewed by telephone about past use of contraceptives and about possible risk factors for breast cancer. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Relative risk of breast cancer in women who had used medroxyprogesterone. RESULTS: Medroxyprogesterone had been used by 110 patients and 252 controls. Overall, the relative risk of breast cancer associated with any duration of use was 1.0 (95% confidence interval 0.80 to 1.3). In women aged 25 34 the relative risk was 2.0 (1.0 to 3.8). The relative risk was highest in women aged 25-34 who had used the drug for six years or longer, although there were few women in this category. Women who had used it for two years or longer before age 25 had an increased risk of breast cancer (relative risk 4.6; 1.4 to 15.1). CONCLUSION: Despite the lack of an overall association these findings suggest that medroxyprogesterone may increase the risk of breast cancer in young women. PMID- 2529941 TI - Contribution of the vasopressin V1 receptor to its hydrosmotic response. AB - Toad urinary bladder epithelial cells grown in culture (primary) show a significant increase in water-soluble inositol phosphates when treated with 10( 8) M vasopressin (AVP), but not with (1-deamino-8-D-arginine)vasopressin (dDAVP), a V2-agonist. The increase in inositol phosphates was blocked by the V1 antagonist, d(CH2)5Tyr(Me)AVP, suggesting a V1-coupled phosphoinositide breakdown. The V1-antagonist had no effect on basal adenylate cyclase activity nor on that stimulated by AVP. However, the V1-antagonist was found to attenuate the hydrosmotic response of AVP, suggesting some role of the V1-receptor cascade in the water flow response. Mezerein (MZ), a non-phorbol activator of protein kinase C (PKC) increased osmotic water flow when added to the mucosal surface. The response was less in magnitude and occurred over a longer period (90 min) than that observed with AVP. In an attempt to emulate the V1-response, activation of PKC, and an increase in intracellular calcium, toad bladders were incubated with MZ and the calcium ionophore A23187 (IP). It was found that IP enhanced the water flow response to MZ at all times measured. Mz and IP were also found to enhance cAMP-mediated water flow, suggesting that apical membrane permeability may be regulated in part through V1-receptor stimulation and its respective second messengers. Collectively, these observations suggest that the V1 receptor may play a role not only as part of a negative feedback system, but also as an integral component of the enhanced water permeability that occurs at the apical membrane. PMID- 2529940 TI - Vasopressin-induced transfer via light vesicles of receptors and water channels from basolateral to apical membrane of toad bladder. AB - Toad bladder epithelial cells were homogenized and fractionated by Percoll density-gradient centrifugation. Binding of tritium-labeled vasopressin ([3H]AVP) was measured in surface membranes (SM), microsomes (M), and a 100,000 g (60-min) microsomal supernatant fraction (S). More than two-thirds of the total receptors were in S. Receptors in SM--but not in S--were tightly coupled to G-protein as suggested by inhibition of [3H]AVP binding by GTP. GTP-sensitivity of [3H]AVP binding was not altered by vasotocin (AVT) stimulation, although the distribution of receptors shifted from SM to S. Intact bladders, exposed on the serosal side to 1-desamino, 7-lysine-(4-azidobenzoyl), 8-arginine vasotocin (d7-N3-AVT) in the presence of UV light, exhibited a persistent hydroosmotic response compared to controls stimulated with photoaffinity analog in the dark. Cell fractions from the irradiated bladders showed a reduction in [3H]AVP binding in SM and S. Intact bladders, exposed on the mucosal side to d7-N3-AVT in the presence of UV light (while stimulated from the serosal side with AVP) exhibited a decrease in [3H]AVP binding in SM compared to controls without d7-N3-AVT.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2529942 TI - Influence of zearalenone on some metabolic pathways of the rat liver. AB - Zearalenone, a natural product isolated from Fusarium graminearum, has anabolic properties and affects glycogen catabolism in the rat liver. In the isolated perfused liver, L-lactate production, glucose release from endogenous glycogen and oxygen uptake are increased upon infusion of the compound. Fructose metabolism is only slightly affected by zearalenone, except for the transformation of fructose into glucose which is decreased. The action of zearalenone seems to be related to the amount of drug retained by the liver rather than to the concentration in the perfusion fluid. PMID- 2529943 TI - A two-dimensional Doppler ultrasonic probe for flow measurement. AB - The use of a single-transducer pulsed-Doppler ultrasound system in clinical practice has been severely limited, not only by the effects of acoustics and physiologic parameters, but also by inaccuracy because the Doppler angle between the transducer axis and the flow velocity is unknown. In this study, a dual transducer pulsed-Doppler ultrasound system was used because the Doppler angle could be directly calculated for more accurate determination of the fluid flow velocity vector. From the velocity estimate and velocity profiles, other flow characteristics such as volume flow rates and shear stress can also be estimated. Experimental results indicated that the new transducer model could increase the accuracy of fluid flow velocity measurement and thereby improve the ability to estimate the characteristics of turbulent fluid flow for research and diagnostic purposes. PMID- 2529944 TI - Lumbar pain in stage 1 testicular germ cell tumours: a symptom preceding radiological abnormality. AB - In a series of 114 stage 1 testicular tumour patients managed by a surveillance policy there have been 26 relapses. Three of these patients presented with lumbar pain as the first sign of relapse. All 3 were tumour marker non-producers and the onset of pain pre-dated radiological abnormality by up to 4 months. Stage 1 surveillance patients who develop lumbar pain must be considered to be at high risk of relapse to avoid delay in diagnosis which may prejudice survival. PMID- 2529945 TI - Laser angioplasty with a pulsed NdYAG laser: early clinical experience. AB - Since December 1986, 40 laser angioplasty procedures have been performed using the energy from a pulsed NdYAG laser, delivering near infrared light (1064 nm) in 100-microseconds pulses of approximately 300 mJ per pulse, directly through a transparent sapphire tipped device. All patients had total occlusion of the superficial femoral artery and symptoms severe enough to warrant surgery, with ulceration or gangrene in eight, rest pain in 14 and severe claudication interfering with life-style in the others. The device was introduced through an antegrade puncture of the superficial or common femoral artery and laser recanalization was followed by attempted balloon angioplasty in all cases. Occlusions were a median length of 15 cm (range 2-35 cm); ten patients had previously undergone failed attempts at conventional balloon angioplasty and four had occluded femoropopliteal grafts. Thirty-seven legs of 34 patients were treated with an average of 60 J (range 10-235 J) with successful recanalization in 27 and immediate reocclusion in seven. The 20 successful recanalizations have been followed up for up to 24 months (median 7 months) with only one late occlusion at 5 months. Failed recanalization was due to poor transmission by the delivery device in the early part of the series (five cases), repeated passage of the device down a collateral branch (four cases), dissection at the site of previous surgery (two cases) or no apparent reason (two cases). Immediate reocclusion was due to very poor run off in patients with severely ischaemic limbs (three cases) or technical difficulties with balloon dilatation (two cases). Complete symptomatic relief was obtained in all the cases of radiologically successful laser angioplasty. Early surgery was required in one case following reocclusion of the artery when an angioplasty balloon failed to deflate, and one patient suffered a skin reaction thought to be due to inadequate removal of the sterilizing solution. A different sterilizing procedure is now followed. Laser angioplasty can reduce the number of patients requiring bypass surgery and improvements in the device and access methods may reduce the number of untreatable cases. PMID- 2529947 TI - A comparison of the category fluency deficits associated with Alzheimer's and Huntington's disease. AB - The supermarket verbal fluency test of the Dementia Rating Scale (DRS) was administered to 20 patients with mild Alzheimer's disease (Mi-DAT), 20 patients with moderately severe Alzheimer's disease (Mo-DAT), 20 patients with Huntington's disease (HD), and 40 normal control subjects. The findings confirmed previous reports that Mo-DAT patients retrieved fewer words per category of supermarket items sampled and had a greater propensity to generate category labels (superordinates) than did intact controls. Similar disruptions of the structure of semantic knowledge were also noted in the fluency performances of the Mi-DAT and HD patients. The Mi-DAT patients' tendency to generate few exemplars for each category sampled suggested that a significant disruption in the structure of semantic knowledge occurred even in the earliest stages of DAT. When the present fluency findings for the HD patients were considered with previous reports of linguistic changes in this disorder, it appeared that HD patients' deterioration in semantic knowledge involved associative changes rather than the bottom-up breakdown associated with DAT. PMID- 2529946 TI - Operative assessment of femorodistal bypass grafts using a new Doppler flowmeter. AB - Operative measurements using a newly developed Doppler flowmeter were made on 47 in situ femorodistal bypass grafts performed for critical ischaemia. Graft blood flow, peripheral resistance and impedance were measured before and after the injection of 15 mg papaverine down the graft. The proportion of retrograde blood flow at the distal anastomosis was also measured. The success of a graft at 1 month was defined by patency on duplex ultrasound scanning, a rise in the Doppler ankle pressures and an improvement in the clinical state of the limb. By these criteria the 1-month primary success rate was 35 out of 47 (74 per cent). Graft blood flow was of little value in predicting graft outcome but, combined with segmental pressures, accurately located six of eight technical problems which were successfully corrected. After papaverine, the peripheral resistance of all the successful grafts fell below one peripheral resistance unit (PRU). No single measurement was able to completely distinguish between success and failure, although discriminant analysis of all measurements was able to predict success with a sensitivity of 100 per cent and specificity of 97 per cent. A simpler combination of a peripheral resistance after papaverine less than 1 PRU and a retrograde blood flow less than 33 per cent predicted success, with a sensitivity of 97 per cent and specificity 83 per cent. These criteria have been validated on a further 26 grafts, achieving a sensitivity of 88 per cent and a specificity of 75 per cent. Simple operative measurements, using a newly developed Doppler flowmeter, enable the detection of technical problems and the accurate prediction of the early outcome of femorodistal grafting. PMID- 2529948 TI - Nerve regeneration and serum levels of insulin-like growth factor-I in rats with streptozotocin-induced insulin deficiency. AB - Peripheral nerve regeneration was studied in female Sprague-Dawley rats with streptozotocin-induced insulin deficiency. Nerve regeneration was provoked by a crush lesion on the sciatic nerve 21 days after the streptozotocin injection. The regeneration was assessed by a pinch test at different time-points after injury. The rate of regeneration in insulin-deficient animals, 2.5 mm/day, was significantly lower than in control animals, 2.9 mm/day (P less than 0.05). There was no difference in the initial delay, i.e. the period before regeneration attains a constant velocity. One group of insulin-deficient rats was treated with insulin during the regeneration period by means of implanted osmotic mini-pumps. This treatment prevented the decrease in regeneration. After 6 days the sciatic nerves of insulin-deficient rats had regenerated 12.3 +/- 0.3 mm (mean +/- S.E.M.), while the corresponding value for insulin-treated rats was 15.7 +/- 0.6 mm. (P less than 0.01). The streptozotocin-treated rats were found to have a 39% reduction in the serum level of insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) compared to control rats (0.33 +/- 0.02 micrograms/ml and 0.54 +/- 0.02 micrograms/ml respectively, P less than 0.001). Insulin treatment during the regeneration period completely restored the IGF-I level back to normal. PMID- 2529949 TI - Coupling of D1 dopamine receptors to the guanine nucleotide binding protein Gs is deficient in Huntington's disease. AB - Human brain contains two subtypes of D1 dopamine receptors, which both exist under high- (RH) and low-agonist affinity (RL) sites, but can be distinguished on the basis of the ability of GTP to convert RH into RL. The amygdala contains exclusively GTP-sensitive (GS) D1 receptors, frontal cortex exclusively GTP insensitive (GI) D1 receptors, and putamen both GS and GI receptors. In contrast with controls, we were unable to detect RH sites in amygdala from patients with Huntington disease (HD). The amount of RH sites in normal and HD frontal cortex were similar. In putamen, the GTP-induced partial conversion of RH into RL, observed in controls, was absent in HD. The results suggest that coupling of GS D1 receptors with the guanine nucleotide binding protein Gs may be deficient in HD. PMID- 2529950 TI - Blockade of dopamine D1 receptors by SCH 23390 antagonizes discriminative stimulus effects of pentazocine. AB - The purpose of this investigation was to test the hypothesis that the discriminative stimulus properties of pentazocine are mediated through an interaction with dopamine receptors. Rats were trained to discriminate s.c. injections of pentazocine (3.0 mg/kg) from vehicle in a two-choice discrete trial avoidance paradigm. SCH 23390 (0.003-0.056 mg/kg), a selective antagonist of dopamine D1 receptors, inhibited the discriminative stimulus effects of pentazocine in a dose-dependent fashion, whilst the selective D2 receptor antagonist sulpiride (20.0-80.0 mg/kg) did not antagonize them. It appears that the dopamine D1 receptors play an important role in the discriminative stimulus effects of pentazocine. PMID- 2529951 TI - Studies on the mechanism of the sympatholytic effect of 8-OH DPAT: lack of correlation between inhibition of serotonin neuronal firing and sympathetic activity. AB - Previous studies indicate that the selective 5-HT1A agonist, 8-OH DPAT, acts in the central nervous system to inhibit sympathetic nerve activity. Based on the observations that: (1) 8-OH DPAT acts at serotonin (5-HT) autoreceptors to inhibit 5-HT neuronal firing; and (2) medullary 5-HT neurons provide a tonic excitatory input to sympathetic preganglionic neurons, we have hypothesized that 8-OH DPAT produces its sympatholytic effects by inhibiting medullary 5-HT neuronal firing and thereby removing an excitatory input to sympathetic preganglionic neurons. The present study was designed to critically test this hypothesis. The sympatholytic effects of 8-OH DPAT were compared in intact animals and in animals which received large electrolytic lesions in the midline area of the lower brainstem. These lesions extended from the obex rostral through the level of the facial motor nucleus and encompassed the brain stem from the dorsal to the ventral surface. The sympatholytic effect of 8-OH DPAT was identical in intact animals and in animals receiving the lesion. The inhibitory effects of 8-OH DPAT on activity recorded simultaneously from the inferior cardiac sympathetic nerve and from medullospinal 5-HT neurons were determined. Medullary 5-HT neurons were identified using criteria modeled after the electrophysiological and pharmacological characteristics previously described for dorsal raphe 5-HT neurons. Medullary 5-HT neuronal activity was more sensitive to the inhibitory effects of 8-OH DPAT than was sympathetic activity. Indeed, low doses of 8-OH DPAT completely suppressed the firing of medullary 5-HT neurons but had little effect on sympathetic nerve activity. These data fail to support the hypothesis that inhibition of 5-HT neuronal firing is responsible for the central sympatholytic effects of 8-OH DPAT. Rather, the data suggest that 8-OH DPAT acts postsynaptically on 5-HT1A receptors located on central sympathetic neurons to inhibit sympathetic nerve activity. PMID- 2529952 TI - Involvement of serotonin in mediation of inhibition of substantia nigra neurons by noxious stimuli. AB - Neuronal activities of the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNC) are known to be inhibited by noxious stimuli. Extracellular recording of spontaneous firing of SNC neurons were made to investigate how such inhibition would be influenced by treatment with 5,7-dihydroxytryptamine (5,7-DHT) or p-chlorophenylalanine (PCPA) or by IV injection of the serotonin antagonist, cyproheptadine. Noxious stimuli were produced by tail pinching (TP) and tail heating (HW). In 5,7-DHT-treated experiment, the inhibition indices were 62.8 +/- 4.4 (TP) and 63.4 +/- 4.6 (HW)% for vehicle-treated control, then the inhibition indices were 26.3 +/- 2.6 (TP) and 27.8 +/- 2.9 (HW)% for 5,7-DHT-treated animals. As to the PCPA-treated experiment, the inhibition indices were 63.1 +/- 2.6 (TP) and 64.8 +/- 2.5 (HW)% for saline control rats, while the inhibition indices were 30.3 +/- 1.6 (TP) and 30.1 +/- 1.6 (HW)% for the PCPA-treated ones. Furthermore, in another observation, the firing rates of SNC neurons were reduced from the saline (control) level by 53.2 +/- 2.12 and 52.1 +/- 2.07% during the application of stimulation of TP and HW, respectively. Following the intravenous injection of cyproheptadine, the firing rates of those were reduced by only 6.71 +/- 1.38 and 4.38 +/- 1.79% for TP and HW, respectively. That is, the TP- and HW-induced inhibition were attenuated about 47% by the injection of cyproheptadine. The results strongly suggested that the serotonergic mechanism would be involved in the mediation of the inhibition of SNC neurons by noxious stimuli. PMID- 2529954 TI - [Studies of enzyme histochemistry and ultrastructure of the myocardium in rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes]. AB - Experimental diabetes was induced in wistar rats by intraperitoneal streptozotocin in a single dose of 60-65 mg per kg body weight. The changes of myocardium enzyme histochemistry and ultrastructure were observed during the 2nd, 4th, 6th, 12th week of diabetic state. The glucose metabolism enzyme activities such as ICDH, SDH, MDH, LDH, all decreased. The results indicated that glucose oxidation and glycolysis reduced. In the ventricular myocardium of diabetic rats, varying degrees of ultrastructural change were apparent. Swelling of mitochondria was observed. Focal areas showed myofibrillar degeneration, and cardiac muscle muscle cells showed condensation of nuclear chromatin. Lipid droplets could be seen in the cytoplasm of cardiac myocytes. The ultrastructural changes in the cardiac muscle cells were not accompanied by any changes in the endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells of the small vessels or capillaries. This study provides a strong evidence for the occurrence of a primary myocardial disease in the model of streptozotocin-induced diabetes. The primary cardiomyopathy was not dependent on vascular pathological changes. PMID- 2529953 TI - The influence of cholesterol on synaptic fluidity, dopamine D1 binding and dopamine-stimulated adenylate cyclase. AB - The present study examined the influence of the synaptic cholesterol/phospholipid ratio on fluorescence polarization, the binding of SCH23390 to dopaminergic D1 binding sites and dopamine-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity. The cholesterol/phospholipid ratio of synaptic membranes from bovine caudate was modified by incubating the membranes with a lipid transfer protein and liposomes which were either loaded with or lacking cholesterol. The results of this study demonstrated that the number of binding sites (Bmax) for SCH23390 was insensitive to alterations in the synaptic cholesterol/phospholipid ratio and membrane order. However, when the cholesterol/phospholipid ratio was decreased by 30%, membrane order and binding affinity (Kd) were decreased. Despite the lack of change in the number of D1 binding sites, the activity of dopamine-stimulated adenylate cyclase was markedly inhibited by an elevated cholesterol/phospholipid ratio. The results of these studies are discussed in terms of their potential relevance to aging. PMID- 2529955 TI - Effect of cobalt on Ca2+-Mg2+ ATPase in rat incisor maturation ameloblasts. AB - Rat incisor maturation ameloblasts were studied to determine the effect of injected cobalt on the distribution and intensity of Ca2+-Mg2+ ATPase. The dosage of cobalt utilized temporarily inhibits enamel mineralization and alters ameloblast-associated calcium. A modified Wachstein-Meisel medium containing cerium as the capturing ion was used to localize Ca2+-Mg2+ ATPase cytochemically. The distribution and intensity of the reaction product in normal maturation ameloblasts was, as previously reported, primarily in association with the plasma membranes. The lateral cell membranes of both smooth-ended and ruffle-ended ameloblasts were reactive. The ruffled border region contained the heaviest concentration of reaction product. Although cobalt did not alter the general pattern of distribution of the reaction product in either cell type, in all regions of activity the intensity was noticeably increased. Cells modulating from smooth-ended to ruffle-ended ameloblasts and under the influence of cobalt exhibited an irregular dense layer along the enamel surface, and large focal accumulations of electron-dense material in the various extracellular compartments. This may indicate interference with a putative resorptive activity of these cells. PMID- 2529956 TI - Challenges and dilemmas in behaviour guidance of the pediatric dental patient. AB - In addition to the pressures of providing a high quality of dental care for children, dentists practising pediatric dentistry are faced with some legal and ethical concerns regarding the use of behaviour management techniques. The following article will discuss some of the pressures and ethical dilemmas facing dentists treating children. Strategies for making the dental appointment more humane for child, parent and dentist are suggested. The most perplexing issues in pediatric dentistry today are related to the management of patients. In addition to questions regarding clinical management, dentists treating children have to make careful judgements concerning management of patient's behaviour. The following scenarios are a few examples of the situations that often arise during the dental treatment of child and adolescent patients: "I really had to raise my voice to Jamie today and use a lot of physical restraint to administer the local anesthetic. I was not happy about being so aggressive, but it was important to get that filling done. I wonder, though, how he is going to feel about going to the dentist now?" "I feel frustrated that I did not get any work done on that four-year-old today, but I did not want to use undue force. Maybe I should have been more forceful; hand-over-mouth-exercise might have worked, but I always feel uncertain about using that technique and I wonder what the parents will think if I use it." PMID- 2529957 TI - A survey of Canadian pediatric dentists: practice characteristics and views on dental education. AB - The success of caries prevention in the developed countries has resulted in a marked decline in dental disease, especially in pediatric divisions of dental faculties, where an acute problem is finding patients to provide students with the clinical experience they will require in practice. It has become apparent that this changing disease pattern should be accompanied by a re-thinking of educational strategies and objectives to mirror the times and projected trends. While changes in educational strategies will likely be initiated from within the dental faculties, debate and discussion should include those in private practice as well as the academic field. With this in mind, 85 pediatric dentists nation wide were surveyed regarding their views on educational matters as well as characteristics of their practice and their general profiles. There was widespread agreement on the need for changes in educational strategies and suggestions were made regarding the directions these changes should take. PMID- 2529958 TI - [Gynecologic surgery with simultaneous lipectomy of the abdominal wall]. PMID- 2529959 TI - Differentiating Alzheimer's disease from Huntington's disease with the Wechsler Memory Scale-Revised. AB - The WMS-R represents a significant improvement over the original version of the WMS. Patterns of performance on the five WMS-R indices successfully differentiated patients with a "cortical" (that is, DAT) from patients with a "subcortical" (that is, HD) dementia. The differences between ACI and GMI also indicated that DAT patients' attention and concentration were better preserved than those of equally demented HD patients. Analyses of the differences between GMI and DMI indicated that rapid forgetting was more apparent for DAT than for HD patients in the early stages of these disorders. When savings scores for the Logical Memory and Visual Reproduction tests were used to examine retention over a 30-minute period, both mildly and moderately demented DAT patients demonstrated more rapid forgetting than did HD patients with similar levels of cognitive decline. Discriminant analyses performed with these indices of forgetting showed 95 per cent accurate classification of DAT and elderly controls, and 79 per cent correct classification of DAT and HD patients. Assessment of the patients' tendencies to make prior-item intrusion errors on the Visual Reproduction tests of the WMS and WMS-R yielded significant differences between patient groups and the two versions of the test. Patients with DAT made significantly more prior figure intrusion errors than did HD patients on both versions of the VRT, but the original WMS form of this figural memory test was more likely to elicit such errors than was the revised version. Despite many improvements in the revised scale, a number of limitations still exist including standardization and a lack of norms for elderly individuals, as well as failures to include tests of verbal recognition and adequate measures of nonverbal memory. PMID- 2529960 TI - Intrahepatic mitomycin C as a salvage treatment for patients with hepatic metastases from colorectal carcinoma. AB - Sixty-four evaluable patients with hepatic metastases from colorectal carcinoma, who did not have evidence of extrahepatic disease, were treated with intrahepatic (IH) mitomycin C (M) after disease progression or intolerance to treatment with IH fluorodeoxyuridine (FUDR). Eleven patients (17%) had a partial response (PR) to IH M and ten (16%) patients had stable disease. Patients who responded to IH FUDR were more likely to respond to IH M when compared with those who progressed on IH FUDR (47% versus 13%, respectively; P = 0.013). Those who were switched to IH M because of hepatotoxicity on IH FUDR also were more likely to respond to IH M than those who were switched because of progression on IH FUDR (75% versus 27%, respectively; P = 0.022). Baseline laboratory values, the percent of tumorous liver involvement, prior history of systemic chemotherapy, and the interval from diagnosis to initiation of IH M did not help predict response. Toxicity was mild and well tolerated. The overall median survival time of the 64 evaluable patients was 9.0 months from the start of IH M therapy. We conclude that IH M has some salvage benefit in patients with hepatic metastases. PMID- 2529961 TI - Ability of the alpha and beta anomers of chlorozotocin to kill rat 9L tumor cells in vitro. AB - Chlorozotocin (CLZ), a nitrosourea synthesized in the hope that it would have little bone marrow toxicity, has been shown to be effective against animal tumors and tumor cells in culture. However, the clinical results with CLZ have been disappointing. The original report on the synthesis of CLZ indicated that alpha and beta anomers at the D-glucose moiety should be expected, particularly when CLZ is placed in aqueous solution. In this study, the alpha and beta anomers have been separated by high-performance liquid chromatography and characterized by UV spectroscopy, mass spectroscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance. The equilibration and decomposition of the anomers in various physiological solutions were determined as a function of temperature, pH, and serum concentration. In Eagle's basal medium (pH 7.2) held at 25 degrees C, CLZ decomposed with a t1/2 of approximately 82 min; at 37 degrees C with serum, CLZ decomposed with a t1/2 of less than 10 min. In these two cases, the beta:alpha ratio reached 1 in approximately 48 min and less than 5 min, respectively. The maximum beta:alpha ratio obtained in all cases ranged from 1.25 to 1.5. After holding CLZ in tissue culture medium and compensating for its decomposition, 9L rat brain tumor cells were treated in vitro with CLZ having different ratios of the alpha and beta anomers. These experiments demonstrated that the beta anomer has little, if any, ability to kill 9L cells. Thus, this anomerization phenomenon may have been responsible for the disappointing clinical results with CLZ. Our data suggest that appropriate preparation, handling, and drug delivery procedures might be devised to minimize this problem in both experimental and clinical situations. PMID- 2529962 TI - Pharmacokinetics and systemic bioavailability of menogaril, an anthracycline antitumor agent, in the mouse, dog, and monkey. AB - Menogaril is an antitumor agent of the anthracycline type which is less cardiotoxic than doxorubicin in a chronic rabbit model and is active in experimental tumor systems when given by p.o. or parenteral routes. It is currently undergoing i.v. and p.o. Phase II clinical evaluation. We report here the results of pharmacokinetic and systemic bioavailability studies of menogaril in three species (mouse, dog, and monkey). Upon i.v. administration, menogaril plasma concentration-time curves declined in a biexponential (dog) or triexponential (mouse and monkey) manner, with the terminal disposition half-life (t1/2) being considerably shorter in the dog (2.86 +/- 0.47 h) than in the mouse and monkey (21.6 and 19.0 +/- 3.7 h, respectively). The systemic clearance (CL, in liters/h/kg) was highest in mouse (6.2), followed by dog (2.9) and then monkey (1.4). The drug was extensively distributed in all three species, with steady state volumes of distribution being 88.5, 9.8, and 27.9 liters/kg in the mouse, dog, and monkey, respectively. One, two, and three metabolites were detected in the plasma of mice, monkeys, and dogs, respectively, using reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography. The major fluorescent metabolite in all species coeluted with authentic N-demethyl-menogaril; the other two metabolites were present at low concentrations relative to unchanged menogaril and its putative N-demethylated metabolite. One of these metabolites, which was found in both the dog and monkey, eluted with authentic (7R)-nogarol. Mean maximum plasma concentrations of the putative N-demethylmenogaril metabolite were approximately one-tenth those of menogaril in all three species following i.v. drug administration. Upon p.o. treatment, first-pass metabolism or incomplete absorption reduced the systemic bioavailability to 12% in the dog and 33% in the mouse and monkey. N-Demethylmenogaril was the major fluorescent metabolite observed in the plasma of p.o. treated animals. Interspecies comparison of menogaril pharmacokinetic parameters in mice, dogs, monkeys, and humans using allometric techniques indicated that the parameters for mice, monkeys, and humans were highly correlated; in each of these species presystemic metabolism of p.o. administered menogaril reduced its systemic bioavailability to an equivalent extent (30-35%). To determine if metabolically formed N-demethylmenogaril might contribute to the overall antitumor activity of menogaril, we determined the effect of synthetic N-demethylmenogaril on the life span of mice bearing P388 leukemia. Results indicated that the metabolite is marginally active compared to menogaril itself. PMID- 2529964 TI - An open label trial of dextromethorphan in Huntington's disease. AB - Because of its interactions at N-methyl-D-aspartate and haloperidol specific sigma receptors, dextromethorphan may have symptomatic or protective effects in Huntington's Disease (HD). Escalating doses of dextromethorphan in 11 HD patients produced side effects of dysarthria, rash, and incoordination. At maximum doses, performance declined on a variety of measures of HD, including functional rating scales and quantitative exam scores, consistent with dose-related side effects. Windows of symptomatic benefit were not found. Serum levels of dextromethorphan and its metabolites, including the active compound dextrorphan, showed atypical relationships to dose and side effects, suggesting complex pharmacokinetics. Although not beneficial symptomatically, further trials of dextromethorphan as protective therapy in HD may be warranted. PMID- 2529963 TI - Carbamazepine-induced tics. AB - Although a variety of dyskinesias are known to develop during anticonvulsant therapy, carbamazepine-induced tics are rarely recognized. We report three patients with an underlying movement disorder (Huntington's disease, tardive dyskinesia, and Tourette's syndrome) who experienced the onset or exacerbation of tics after the introduction of carbamazepine. These cases confirm the phenomenon of carbamazepine-induced tics and suggest that basal ganglia neuropathology may be an important predisposing factor. The dopaminergic effects of carbamazepine may be responsible for the induction of tics. PMID- 2529965 TI - Changes of the degree of hypertrophy in hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy under medical and surgical treatment. AB - The aim of our study was to establish the extent to which therapy of hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM) can influence the degree of hypertrophy. By means of two-dimensionally guided M-mode echocardiography, 120 patients with HOCM (age range 4-72 years, mean age 41 years) were observed over an average period of 49 +/- 41 months. Depending on the respective therapy, we formed four patient groups: group 1: 13 patients without any therapy (follow-up period 31 +/- 30 months); group 2: 27 patients receiving propranolol (follow-up period 47 +/- 34 months); group 3: 50 patients receiving verapamil (follow-up period 39 +/- 27 months), and group 4: 30 patients with myectomy (follow-up period 34 +/- 32 months). In group 4, as expected, the thickness of the interventricular septum (IVS) decreased postoperatively (from 24.2 +/- 4.5 to 19.8 +/- 6.7 mm, p less than 0.05), and the left ventricular posterior wall (LVPW) thickness also decreased later postoperatively (from 13.0 +/- 2.6 to 11.9 +/- 2.3 mm, p less than 0.05). The left ventricular diameters increased. In groups 2 and 3 treated with pharmacotherapy as in the untreated patients of group 1, on average there was no change in IVS and LVPW thickness nor in the left ventricular diameters (with the exception of increasing left ventricular end-diastolic diameter in the propranolol-treated group). In contrast to group 1, in occasional cases there were substantial decreases of IVS thickness (11% of the patients in group 2, 13% in group 3) or LVPW thickness (13% of the patients in group 2, 12% in group 3).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2529967 TI - [Dehydroepiandrosterone. Renaissance after 13 years]. AB - DHEA, a steroid precursor of androgens and estrogens has also an inhibitory effect on several enzymes, namely on 11 beta-hydroxylase, NADH oxidase and glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase. The latter is the rate limiting enzyme of the pentose phosphate cycle. This metabolic pathway provides the cells with extramitochondrial NADPH and pentose phosphates. NADPH is used for the synthesis of fatty acids and steroids. Together with ribose 5-phosphate, NADPH (as coenzyme of folate reductases) is required for the synthesis of nucleic acids. A deficient production of DHEA has been found to be responsible for several diseases obesity, diabetes type 2, hypertension, arteriosclerosis and hyperuricemia as well as malignant growth (low DHEA syndrome). DHEA administration favourably modified several of these metabolic disorders. These studies were started in our laboratory in 1962 and stopped in 1976 because we were short of DHEA. At that time the response to our results was rather theoretical, but the last years a new wave of interest in DHEA called for two consecutive symposia, where important findings were presented (Paris in January and Jena in April 1989). It is a damage that this new trend, started in our laboratory, could not be pursued up to now without interruption. PMID- 2529966 TI - Effects of oral lentinan on T-cell subsets in peripheral venous blood. AB - The effect of oral lentinan, a biological response modifier, on the control of systemic immune function was studied in six-week-old male Wistar-Imamichi specific-pathogen free rats. In the lentinan-treated group, 1 mg of lentinan dissolved in 1 ml of physiological saline was administered forcibly into the stomach twice weekly for four or eight weeks. Physiological saline alone was administered in a similar fashion to the control group. Leukocyte and lymphocyte counts were made and lymphocyte subsets measured using monoclonal antibodies W3/13, W3/25, and OX8, and a laser flow cytometry system. The T-cell level, the helper/inducer T-cell level, and the suppressor/cytotoxic T-cell level were measured. The peripheral leukocyte and lymphocyte counts did not change significantly in either group during treatment. After four weeks of treatment, however, the lentinan group had a significantly higher T-cell level, helper-cell level, and helper-suppressor ratio, and a significantly lower suppressor-cell level than did the control group. No significant between-group differences in the lymphocyte subsets or the helper-suppressor ratio were noted after eight weeks of treatment. Oral administration of lentinan appears to modulate the systemic immune function through stimulation of T cells, especially helper cells. Continued administration produced less effect, possibly due to a tolerance to the effect of lentinan. PMID- 2529968 TI - Sequential flow cytometric analysis of cell-cycle related changes in LFA-1 (CD18/CD11a) expression by trisomy 21 (Down's syndrome) lymphoblastoid cells. AB - Lymphocyte function associated antigen 1 (LFA-1) is a heterodimeric leucocyte adhesion molecule comprising non-covalently associated 95 kD, CD18 and 180 kD, CD11a subunits. Lymphoblastoid cell-lines (LCL) derived from persons with Down's syndrome (Trisomy 21) exhibit increased expression of LFA-1 compared with normal LCL. Although this is probably due to a gene-dosage related increase in the synthesis of CD18, cell-cycle differences between Trisomy 21 (T21) and normal LCL could also influence LFA-1 expression. We have therefore analysed expression of CD18 on G1 and G2M cells using sequential flow cytometry. T21 and normal LCL were co-stained with the DNA-binding vital dye HO342 (Hoechst 33342), and with a CD18 monoclonal antibody. The LCL were first sorted on the basis of HO342 staining into G1 and G2M populations, and these fractions then analysed for CD18 expression. Irrespective of the stage of the cell-cycle, expression of CD18 was increased on T21 compared with normal LCL. Although more CD18 was detected on both T21 and normal G2M compared with G1 cells, the relative density of CD18 in G2M was less than in G1 because G2M cells were larger. PMID- 2529970 TI - Percutaneous atherectomy of occlusive peripheral vascular disease: stenoses and/or occlusions. AB - Percutaneous atherectomy was performed using the Simpson Atherocath on 131 patients (87 male, 66%) with a mean age of 65 years. Clinical characteristics included evidence of significant coronary disease in 50%, hypertension in 46%, diabetes in 41%, and prior neurologic deficit in 32% of patients. The indication for atherectomy was claudication in 114 (87%) and rest pain, gangrene, or ulcer in 17 patients (13%). Atherectomy was successfully performed in 136/139 stenoses (98%) and in 56/56 occluded vessels with or without prior balloon angioplasty. No serious complications resulting in limb loss or emergency vascular surgery were encountered. Histopathology of retrieved specimens showed that 66% had atheromatous plaque, 45% had tunica media, and 30% had a form of thrombus. Material obtained from an occluded vessel was more likely to have thrombus and tunica media present than that from a stenosis (P less than 0.02 and P less than 0.05, respectively). Early angiographic follow-up (mean time, 17 weeks) showed a relatively low (17%) lesion recurrence rate. Percutaneous atherectomy can be successfully utilized in stenotic and occluded peripheral arteries with good success and no serious complications; stenoses appear to have a low recurrence rate. PMID- 2529971 TI - Difficult deflation of Probe balloon due to twisting the system. AB - While using the balloon-on-a wire device, we experienced a case of difficult deflation of the Probe balloon system. Blockage of the balloon system was possibly caused by twisting the system to reach and pass the lesion in the branch of left circumflex coronary artery. The duration of inflation was 20 min, causing prolonged ischemia. PMID- 2529969 TI - Effects of expansion of blood volume and bilateral vagotomy on specific heart granules and release of atrial natriuretic peptide in the rat. AB - There was no statistically significant difference in basal concentrations of immunoreactive atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), as assessed by radioimmunoassay, between right and left atrial muscle of control rats; similarly, stereological analysis showed no statistically significant difference in the fractional volume of myocytes occupied by specific heart granules, or in numerical density of granules, between right and left atria. Nevertheless, correlated radioimmunoassay and ultrastructural investigations showed that the major source of elevated plasma levels of ANP after expansion of blood volume was the right atrium. Substantial expansion of blood volume caused an increase in the proportion of peripherally located granules in myocytes of both atria, but reduction in the number of granules and in the concentration and total content of ANP occurred in the right atrium only. Bilateral cervical vagotomy also caused a statistically significant elevation of plasma ANP concentration, accompanied by a statistically significant reciprocal reduction in right atrial ANP content; no statistically significant change occurred in left atrial ANP. When blood volume was expanded after bilateral vagotomy, there was a further statistically significant increase in plasma ANP concentration; this was accompanied by further reduction in right atrial ANP and, moreover, the combined manoeuvre also elicited a statistically significant reduction of ANP in the left atrium. Ultrastructural studies confirmed that, under these conditions, myocytes in both atria showed a marked depletion of specific heart granules. PMID- 2529973 TI - Large coronary artery angioplasty. AB - Angioplasty of a large coronary artery required two side-by-side balloon catheters. Angioplasty was performed using a single recently developed large lumen guide catheter in a vessel that was difficult to cannulate. PMID- 2529972 TI - Pseudodissection: negative contrast streaming from collateral flow branch mimicking coronary arterial dissection. PMID- 2529974 TI - Percutaneous coronary angioplasty of large venous graft using peripheral dilatation catheter. AB - The maximum inflated diameters of standard percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) balloon catheters can be insufficient if stenoses in oversized venous grafts are to be dilated. As an alternative to the recently described "hugging balloon" technique, it seems feasible to use a standard peripheral angioplasty (PTA) catheter with a balloon diameter that is matching to the vessel. Such a procedure calls for a free long-wire exchange and may be hampered by the stiffness of a PTA catheter. We report a case where this technique, used in an emergency procedure, resulted in a satisfactory angiographic result without causing complications. PMID- 2529975 TI - Balloon dilatation of the very small patent ductus arteriosus in preparation for transcatheter occlusion. AB - Balloon dilatation of the very small ductus arteriosus is described, and its application in five patients undergoing catheter occlusion is presented and discussed. PMID- 2529976 TI - Identification of functional U1 snRNA-pre-mRNA complexes committed to spliceosome assembly and splicing. AB - Although both U1 and U2 snRNPs have been implicated in the splicing process, their respective roles in the earliest stages of intron recognition and spliceosome assembly are uncertain. To address this issue, we developed a new strategy to prepare snRNP-depleted splicing extracts using Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells conditionally expressing U1 or U2 snRNP. Complementation analyses and chase experiments show that a stable complex, committed to the splicing pathway, forms in the absence of U2 snRNP. U1 snRNP and a substrate containing both a 5' splice site and a branchpoint sequence are required for optimal formation of this commitment complex. We developed new gel electrophoresis conditions to identify these committed complexes and to show that they contain U1 snRNA. Chase experiments demonstrated that these complexes are functional intermediates in spliceosome assembly and splicing. Our results have implications for the process of splice site selection. PMID- 2529978 TI - Enhancement of monocyte-mediated tumoricidal activity by multiple interferon alpha species. AB - Twenty-one interferon (IFN)-alpha species were evaluated for their ability to enhance monocyte-mediated lysis of the human melanoma cell line, A375. A wide variation in the potency of the different species in inducing monocyte tumoricidal action was observed. In addition, many IFN-alpha species were found to induce as much or more tumoricidal activity than recombinant IFN-gamma. The degree of monocyte activation induced by the various species generally correlated with their antiviral activity. Those which were better at inducing monocyte tumoricidal action also gave the highest antiviral specific activities. Studies were conducted to determine if the relative potency of the IFN-alpha species could be changed by altering certain parameters of the cytotoxicity assay. All IFN-alpha species tested required only 30 min in culture with the monocytes to induce activation. There were no changes in the relative potency of the species when cytotoxicity was measured at different times, nor when the effector:target ratio was altered. Competitive binding studies revealed that those IFN-alpha species which induced little activity in the bioassays were also generally poor in their ability to bind the IFN-alpha receptor on human monocytes, while the IFN alpha species which induced relatively more activity in the bioassays were better able to bind to the IFN-alpha receptor. These data indicate that there are dramatic differences in activities among the IFN-alpha species which may, in part, be explained by different binding affinities. In addition, the differences observed among the IFN-alpha species demonstrate the need for further functional and structural characterization of the individual IFN-alpha species which could lead to a more effective clinical application of IFN-alpha. PMID- 2529977 TI - Identification of dynamin, a novel mechanochemical enzyme that mediates interactions between microtubules. AB - We report that calf brain microtubules prepared without nucleotide contain, in addition to kinesin and dynein, a polypeptide of 100 kd that could be dissociated by nucleotide. The protein was selectively extracted from microtubules using a combination of GTP and AMP-PNP. The extract contained microtubule-stimulated (6 fold) MgATPase activity that partitioned into two components upon further purification: the 100 kd polypeptide and a soluble activating fraction. The 100 kd protein induced microtubules to form hexagonally packed bundles containing periodic cross bridges spaced 13 nm apart. In the presence of ATP and the activating fraction, bundles fragmented, elongated, and exhibited other behavior indicative of sliding between microtubules. These findings indicate that the 100 kd protein is part of a novel mechanochemical enzyme, which we term "dynamin", that may mediate microtubule sliding in vivo. PMID- 2529979 TI - Stability of the transformants obtained by phage particle-mediated gene transfer. AB - Recombinant lambda phage DNA, encapsulated in phage particles and coprecipitated with calcium phosphate, efficiently transforms cultured mammalian cells without a requirement for carrier DNA. The present paper analyzes the stability of the transformants obtained by the phage transfer method. lambda phage particles containing recombinant DNA that includes the thymidine kinase (TK) gene of herpes simplex virus type 1 as a selective marker were introduced into Ltk- cells deficient in TK activity, and TK+ transformants were selected in HAT medium. To test the stability of the TK+ phenotype of the transformants, seven individual transformant clones were isolated, cultured in HAT selective medium and then in non-selective medium for various lengths of time. After such culture, transformants were allowed to develop colonies in both selective and non selective medium. For all seven transformant clones, the numbers of colonies obtained in the two types of medium were almost identical, irrespective of whether or not each transformant clone had been previously cultured for 15 to 50 days in non-selective medium. This result suggests that most transformants obtained by the phage transfer method maintain the TK+ phenotype stably, for at least 50 days, when grown in non-selective medium. PMID- 2529980 TI - [Analogs of gonadoliberin in the treatment of endometriosis and uterine myoma. Comparison of daily subcutaneous treatment and intramuscular depot therapy]. AB - Seven women with endometriosis and three women with uterine myomas were treated for six months with tryptoreline (Decapeptyl, Decapeptyl Depot, Ferring). In six patients with endometriosis improvement was achieved according to the AFS classification and the finding on palpation and ultrasonic examination. In three patients with uterine myoma a reduction by 25-100% was recorded. Dysmenorrhoea and pain in the hypogastrium disappeared completely in all patients except one. The LH and FSH levels declined and E2 levels were similar as in the menopause. The menstrual cycle disappeared in the course of treatment and all women experienced flushes. Daily s. c. and monthly depot doses gave similar results. Four months after treatment the hormonal levels and the menstrual cycle were normal. Endometriosis disappeared twice, four times minor endometriotic nodes persisted, once a uterine myoma of half the size reappeared. Treatment with LH-RH agonists in endometriosis matches danazole treatment in uterine myomas it is suitable for special cases. PMID- 2529981 TI - [The clinical manifestations and endocrine changes of anorexia nervosa]. AB - We analyzed the clinical manifestations and endocrine changes of 15 cases of anorexia nervosa. One male, aged 42, and 14 females, aged 14-26 were involved in the study. The precipitating causes were chronic psychiatric trauma (60%), strain (27%) and abnormal fear of being fat (13%). All showed clinical manifestations of hypometabolism and malnutrition. Body weight decreased by 36.3 +/- 11.6% on average and 93% of the patients had lost more than 20% of their original weight. All women patients over 16 years old had amenorrhea. The daily intake of grain was less than 150 gm and had decreased by more than 67% as compared with earlier intakes. Although the patients were very thin, 3/4 could maintain ordinary indoor activities. The patients with anorexia nervosa had obvious endocrine disturbances, such as low serum FSH, LH and Ts levels and high basal serum GH and midnight serum cortisol concentrations. The response of TSH to TRH and of FSH and LH to LHRH were delayed, but serum GH and PRL levels rose normally after stimulation. All of these changes are secondary to severe body weight loss or hypofunction of the hypothalamus. PMID- 2529982 TI - [Molecular cytogenetic study of a 21p+ variant in a family with Crouzon syndrome]. AB - A 31 year-old male with Crouzon syndrome and a 21p+ was observed. Pedigree analysis and molecular cytogenetic study on the members of the family revealed that this syndrome was an autosomal dominant disease inherited from the proband's mother, and the 21p+ was transmitted from the father. Neither large AG-band nor double NOR was observed on p+. Using a 7.3 kb fragment of 18S and 28S rRNA genes as probe, chromosomal in situ hybridization demonstrated that this p+ was very probably the result of enlargement of NOR or duplication of rRNA genes on this chromosome. PMID- 2529983 TI - [Expression of gene encoding HBsAg in yeast cell with its alpha-factor promoter]. AB - Construction of an E. coli-yeast shuttle plasmid was reported with yeast alpha factor as promoter of synthesis and secretion of mature foreign proteins by yeast cells (Saccharomyces cerevisiae). The HBsAg gene was successfully recombined into the plasmid with its frame precisely adjusted, thus resulting in extracellular secretion of HBsAg protein by the yeast cells. PMID- 2529984 TI - [Clinical electrophysiological studies of peroneal muscular atrophy--report of 32 cases]. AB - Clinical, electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction velocity (NCV) features of 32 cases with peroneal muscular atrophy (PMA) are reported. Twenty of the cases showed remarkably slow NCV: median SNCV (Fing 1-W) X = 21.0 m/s, (Fing 3-W) X = 22.7 m/s, motor latency (ML) X = 7.3 ms; tibial SNCV (hallux-ankle) X = 22.2 m/s and ML = X = 8.1 ms, which were consistent with Type 1 PMA. Twelve cases showed normal or moderately slow NCV: median SNCV (Fing 1-W) X = 41.9 m/s, (Fing 3-W) X = 47.0 m/s and ML X = 3.2 ms; tibial SNCV (halluxankle) X = 32.5 m/s and ML X = 4.8 ms which were consistent with Type 2 PMA. The difference between these two groups was very significant (P less than 0.01). Sural nerve biopsy performed in 6 cases showed that 5 corresponded with NCV classification. We conclude that careful NCV examination is necessary for classification of PMA. PMID- 2529986 TI - [Influence of selenium supplement on cadmium metabolism in human]. AB - 38 subjects were randomly divided into 2 groups of 19 each. Group 1 consumed a selenium supplement (150 micrograms/d X 21) and Group 2 received only placebo(glucose). After supplementation, blood Se levels and plasma GSH-Px activities in Group 1 increased from 76 to 100 ng/ml (P less than 0.05) and 0.082 to 0.122 e.u./ml (P less than 0.01) respectively. All measured Se, GSH-Px values in Group 2, and high concentrations of lipid peroxides (greater than 4 nmol/ml as malonaldehyde) in both groups remained approximately the same. Se supplementation resulted in a marked decrease of RBC cadmium (Cd) from 32.3 to 25.4 micrograms/g Hb (P less than 0.001). Urinary and fecal Cd in 5 subjects of each group were analyzed every 4 days, and the results demonstrated that Cd was mainly excreted in feces after Se supplementation. One week after discontinuing of Se treatment, Cd content in urine and feces decreased to control levels. Theoretical evidence for chemoprevention of lung cancer with Se in this area was thus provided. PMID- 2529985 TI - [Peroxidative antimalaria mechanism of sodium artesunate]. AB - Peroxidative antimalaria action of sodium artesunate was studied in vitro. Under alkaline conditions, sodium artesunate could produce active oxygen species, including the superoxide anion (O2-) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), but no O2- or H2O2 was produced by the drug at pH 7.4. However, sodium artesunate could increase the concentration of O2- and H2O2 in erythrocytes by increasing membrane lipid peroxidation, with this action being more marked in infected than in normal erythrocytes. PMID- 2529987 TI - [Studies on antifertility effect of testosterone undecanoate in combination with danazol in male rats]. AB - Male rats were injected i.m. with 12 mg/kg testosterone undecanoate (TU) twice in the first and once in each of the succeeding 2 months in combination with oral danazol (DZ) of 30 mg/kg/day. Antifertility effects were observed with morphological and functional techniques for half a year. Results showed: reduction of testis weight and seminiferous tubule diameter; decrease of sperm viability and motility in canada epididymidis; and lowering of testosterone levels in testis and phospholipid and protein contents in epididymis. 75 days after treatment spermatogenesis was arrested mainly in the secondary spermatocyte stage with a decrease in sperm count to 0 in the cauda epididymidis. Mating test showed 0% fertility. Testicular testosterone and epididymis phospholipid and protein contents were found to have dropped further. However, all of the above mentioned changes recovered completely 100 days after cessation of treatment. The authors suggest that TU plus DZ in a suitable dose suppresses spermatogenesis, retards maturation and shortens the survival time of sperm in the epididymis by reducing testosterone levels in the testis. PMID- 2529988 TI - [Separation and ligation of synthetic DNA fragments]. AB - Four designed DNA fragments which contained a sequence for transcriptional termination were synthesized by the DNA Synthesizer Model 381 A (Applied Biosystems). The procedures for separation, purification and ligation of these synthetic DNA fragments were described. It was estimated that the efficiency of ligation is about 65%. PMID- 2529989 TI - [Experimental studies on the hyperthermia-photodynamic effect of tumor cells photosensitized with Y-HpD]. AB - Experimental studies were made on the hyperthermia-photodynamic effect of tumor cells photosensitized with Y-HpD (China-made). Fluorescence spectra were determined in different animal and human cancer tissues before and after treatment. The results showed: Hyperthermia (42-44 degrees C) significantly increased the efficacy of photodynamic therapy (PDT) with a prolongation of survival time of mice and significant difference between PDT groups with and without hyperthermia (P less than 0.05). However, this difference was not present with mild hyperthermia (39-40 degrees C); A new fluorescence band was first observed in animal and human cancer cells after PDT treatment (with or without hyperthermia), with a maximum emission wave-length of 460 nm (excitation wave length, 370 nm). The intensity of the band being correlated with cancer cell destruction, and the highest fluorescence intensity together with the strongest cytocidal effect were seen in the PDT-plus-heat group. Most Y-HpD was found the cytoplasm after treatment, with little Y-HpD left in the nucleus. The amount of Y HpD in the cells decreased with the formation of fluorophores in the cytoplasm as a product of photochemical reactions. The authors suggest that hyperthermia may activate Y-HpD, and the increase of cellular Y-HpD then enhances the photochemical reaction. PMID- 2529990 TI - [Morphological observation of erythroid progenitor cell differentiation in vitro]. AB - Iscove's methylcellulose method was adopted and modified for the culture of erythroid progenitor cells isolated from BABL/c mouse bone marrow, and in vitro differentiation of the erythroid cell colonies was observed morphologically. Experimental results indicated: (1) in culture medium with a low concentration of erythropoietin, colonies of different sizes composed of tens to several tens of largely unsynchronized cells were formed from the late erythroid progenitor cells (CFU-E); (2) in culture medium with a high concentration of erythropoietin, the early erythroid progenitor cells (BFU-E) could be stimulated to form larger colonies which consisted of several thousand to ten thousand more highly synchronized cells; and (3) the process of pyknosis and extrusion of nuclei from the late erythroblasts could be readily observed in both the CFU-E and BFU-E colonies. PMID- 2529991 TI - [Studies on the serological activity of ND-O-BSA and its application in serodiagnosis of leprosy]. AB - In this article, optimum conditions of ND-O-BSA-ELISA were determined and comparisons made of the serologic activity of 3 different types of antigens (WML, PGI, ND-O-BSA) in leprosy (151) and tuberculosis (20) patients and normal controls (42). The results indicated that: 1) optimum conditions for ND-O-BSA ELISA were ND-O-BSA and OPD concentration of 0.1 and 400 micrograms/ml respectively with HRP-IgM and test sera dilutions of 1:1000 and 1:200; and 2) serological activity showed highly significant positive correlations between 3 types of antigens (WML vs PGI: r = 0.88, P less than 0.0005; PGI vs ND-O-BSA: r = 0.86, P less than 0.0005), all of which were highly sensitive and specific for leprosy serodiagnosis with positive rates of 100% (PGI) and 97.4% (WML, ND-O-BSA) in leprosy patients. None were positive in normal controls, but crossreactivity of different degree were present in tuberculosis patients. The authors suggest that PGI-ELISA and ND-O-BSA-ELISA be used in combination in the evaluation of clinical therapeutic efficacy and determination of disease stages, as well as in epidemiologic survey of subclinical leprosy infection in "high-risk" areas. PMID- 2529992 TI - [Interrupted aortic arch--report of two cases]. AB - Interrupted aortic arch is a rare congenital heart malformation frequently associated with other extra or intracardiac congenital defects. These anomalies are divided into three types, depending on the site of aortic interruption. The diagnosis may be suspected clinically in patients with diminished femoral pulses and when the partial pressure and saturation of oxygen in the blood from arteries proximal to the interruption are higher than those from arteries distal to the interruption. The characters of heart murmurs are not of help in the diagnosis, which can be confirmed only by an ascending aortogram. SURGICAL TREATMENT: A two stage approach has been routinely used in newborns. This consists of initial repair of the aortic interruption with left subclavian arteries (type A) or with a prosthetic tube (type B, C) and concomitant closure of the proximal end of the ductus by ligation or suturing, to be followed by closure of the intracardiac defect at a later date. Correction of the interrupted aortic arch and intracardiac malformation in elder children can be done at one sitting. PMID- 2529993 TI - [The diagnostic significance of carbohydrate antigen 19-9 in pancreatic carcinomas]. AB - CA 19-9 is a carbohydrate antigen isolated from a human colon carcinoma cell line and reportedly related to gastrointestinal cancers and important for the diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. The present study was aimed at evaluating the diagnostic significance of CA 19-9 by determining serum and pancreatic juice CA 19-9 in 432 and 86 subjects, respectively, including pancreatic cancer patients, normal persons, and patients with a variety of benign and malignant gastrointestinal diseases. An increase of serum CA 19-9 was found in 73% of pancreatic cancer patients, 50% had levels higher than 120 mu/ml, and both of these were significantly higher than normal persons and patients with benign and other malignant diseases. CA 19-9 in the pancreatic juice of pancreatic cancer patients was significantly elevated, whereas in chronic pancreatitis patients it was entirely normal, indicating that CA 19-9 is a valuable tumor marker important for the differential diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. PMID- 2529994 TI - [Preliminary observation of level free-form E receptor levels in serum of normal childbearing-aged and pregnant women]. AB - In 137 cases of childbearing-aged and pregnant women, free form E receptor levels (sE) in serum were measured by ELISA. The level of sE was significantly decreased during the first trimester, slightly higher in the second trimester, and recovered to normal in the third trimester. The level remained lower in 29 PIH women but appeared higher in overdue pregnancies as compared with the normal 3rd trimester range. The results indicate that there is a relationship between a change in T cell function and pregnancy. PMID- 2529995 TI - [Lymphocyte subpopulations during a longitudinal survey in an endemic malaria zone]. AB - In a longitudinal survey conducted in savanna area (Burkina Faso, West Africa) where malarial transmission is seasonal, we studied modifications of T, B lymphocytes, NK cells, and CD4+, CD8+ and activated T subpopulations of 61 patients (31 adults and 30 children, among them 20 showed at least one malarial attack during the survey). Analysis was made by direct immunofluorescence on a cytofluorimeter. Our study did not show any significant differences in lymphocytes subpopulations according to age or presence of malarial attack. None of the lymphocyte markers in the peripheral blood are related to premunition, may be because host/parasite conflict mainly occurs in deep organs. PMID- 2529996 TI - [Longitudinal epidemiologic study of dracunculosis in the south of Togo]. AB - Through an exhaustive study, the authors have demonstrated a clearly defined area of endemic infection in the North West of the ZIO prefecture, in which 80% of the population centers are affected. The rate of incidence can exceed 50%. Transmission occurs mostly in September and October, by means of ponds; the areas of impounded water appear no to be involved. The spontaneous evolution of the endemic infection was followed in two hamlets for four or five years, respectively. After an "epidemic flash", the rate of incidence decreases in the following year to levels near zero thereafter. They only increase violently after the water sources are reinfected by outsiders to the zone. The observation led the authors to put forth the hypothesis of acquired provisional immunity or a temporary decimation of disease vectors. Finally, the authors underline that presently, all the conditions have been met to allow a control of dracunculiasis in this prefecture. PMID- 2529997 TI - From playgroup to preschool: facilitating early integration experiences. AB - This paper discusses community playgroup and preschool settings for non-disabled children as programme options for infants and preschoolers with a variety of physical and mental impairments. These options provide age-appropriate integration experiences which may result in benefits to parent and child, realistic developmental expectations, and a cultural expectation that social integration is a basic part of any child's education. The discussion identifies advantages to beginning integration before the age of 5 years and emphasizes the need for individualized services, ongoing staff training, support for parents, and programme evaluation. PMID- 2529998 TI - Capillary growth in anemia-induced ventricular wall remodeling in the rat heart. AB - To determine whether anemia-induced cardiac hypertrophy affects ventricular size and shape and the component structures of the capillary network of the left and right ventricles, young male rats were fed an iron- and copper-deficient diet for 7 weeks. By that time, blood hemoglobin content fell to 5 +/- 1 g/dl, and packed cell volume fell to 18 +/- 3%. To further characterize the implications of anemia, red blood cell number, hemoglobin corpuscular content, systemic arterial pressure, heart rate, and blood viscosity were measured. Moreover, the changes in ventricular weights were analyzed in terms of the alterations in ventricular wall area and ventricular wall thickness to establish the impact of the elevation in load associated with a high cardiac output state on ventricular remodeling. The quantitative properties of the capillary circulation were also examined biventricularly by low power electron microscopic morphometry to evaluate the adaptive growth potential of the coronary microcirculation in this form of cardiac hypertrophy. Anemia was found to interfere with the production of red blood cells and their mean corpuscular hemoglobin content and resulted in a 40% reduction in blood viscosity and a 12% and 27% decrease in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, respectively. The changes in heart rate were not statistically significant. In comparison with control animals, heart weight increased by 50%, but the enlargement in right ventricular mass (65%) was greater than that of the left ventricle (47%). Ventricular hypertrophy occurred with increases in wall area and wall thickness although the former increased consistently more than the latter in either ventricle. Tissue growth was accompanied by a 60% lengthening of the capillary network, which in combination with an increase in capillary diameter resulted in a 65% and 34% expansion in capillary luminal volume and 56% and 20% larger luminal surface density in the left and right sides of the heart, respectively. In conclusion, hypochromic microcytic anemia leads to eccentric ventricular hypertrophy with a significant amount of capillary proliferation that may tend to protect the myocardium from the increased potential for ischemic injury. PMID- 2529999 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor-specific antibody as a tool for physiological studies. Evidence for role of atrial natriuretic factor in aldosterone and renal electrolyte regulation. AB - Numerous studies have shown that administration of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) increases urinary sodium excretion and urine flow, decreases blood pressure, and inhibits renin and aldosterone release. However, the role of endogenous ANF in the regulation of renal sodium excretion, blood pressure, plasma renin activity, and aldosterone level remains to be elucidated. To examine this issue, endogenous ANF was blocked by administering rat ANF-(99-126) specific antiserum (Ab) to anesthetized rats (n = 7). Control animals received either no injection (time controls, n = 10) or preimmune serum (n = 8). Blockade of endogenous ANF caused a 28 +/- 0.09%, 47 +/- 0.08%, and 51 +/- 0.08% fall in sodium excretion at 15, 30, and 45 minutes after Ab injection (p less than 0.05, p less than 0.01, p less than 0.01, respectively). Urine flow fell 35 +/- 7% at 45 minutes after ANF inhibition (p less than 0.05). Plasma ANF levels were suppressed to undetectable levels. However, there were no changes in blood pressure throughout the experiment nor plasma renin concentration when measured at 45 minutes after Ab injection. Interestingly, plasma aldosterone concentration increased significantly (by approximately 50%, p less than 0.025), in response to Ab. Completeness of blockade was demonstrated by the absence of sodium excretion response to exogenous ANF (500 ng). In either the time control or the preimmune serum group, urinary excretion, blood pressure, plasma ANF, plasma renin concentration, and plasma aldosterone concentration were unchanged throughout the experiment. In contrast to the Ab group, a challenge with exogenous ANF (500 ng) increased sodium excretion by 2.17 mueq/min in the preimmune serum group.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530001 TI - [Surveillance of imported falciparum malaria in Yongkang County, Zhejiang Province]. AB - From August 1985 to February 1987, 43 cases with falciparum malaria were noted in Yongkang County of Zheijiang Province, an area breed from the disease. These patients had been to the border area between Yunnan Province and Burma, approximately making up 5-7% of the returned population from the endemic area. Most of cases were found during the periods of January to March and June to August when they came home. No introduced case was reported due to prompt case diagnosis and treatment as well as immediate focal management. PMID- 2530000 TI - Decreased cardiac concentration of cGMP kinase in hypertensive animals. An index for cardiac vascularization? AB - Cyclic GMP (cGMP) kinase is intimately involved in the regulation of vascular smooth muscle tone. Its tissue concentration was determined in normotensive and hypertensive rats by use of monospecific anti-cGMP kinase antibodies. Hearts of spontaneously hypertensive rats and renovascular (Goldblatt II) hypertensive rats contained half the concentration of cGMP kinase than those of the respective normotensive animals. The increase in blood pressure and the resulting left ventricular hypertrophy were correlated inversely with the left ventricular cGMP kinase concentration. This decrease was specific for the left ventricle and was not observed in other tissues. In addition, the cardiac concentration of cGMP kinase was unchanged in hyperthyroid animals that had comparable left ventricular hypertrophy and mild hypertension. This suggested that in severe renovascular hypertension the decrease in cardiac cGMP kinase concentration is caused by a relative lack of cardiac vessel growth during the development of hypertrophy. In agreement with this conclusion, immunohistochemistry of cardiac cross sections showed that cGMP kinase was exclusively located in cardiac vessels. In support of this localization, the maximal arterial blood flow of heart, liver, skeletal muscle, and kidney correlated excellently with the cGMP kinase content of the respective organ. These results suggest that the cGMP kinase concentration of nonsmooth muscle tissues depends on the amount of organ-specific vascular smooth muscle and may be used as an index for the vascularization of these organs. PMID- 2530002 TI - [Changes in populations of T lymphocytes in mice infected with Trichinella spiralis]. AB - Acid alpha-naphthyl acetate esterase (ANAE), a cytoplasmic marker was used to identify the T lymphocytes and their subpopulations in peripheral blood of mice experimentally infected with T. spiralis. The results showed that the absolute number of lymphocytes and T lymphocytes increased in parallel on d3 after infection, reaching the peak on d14, and remaining above normal level on d60. The spotted granular ANAE positive cells (Helper T cells, Th) were decreasing and the scattered granular ANAE positive cells (suppressor T cells, Ts) were increasing, leading to a lowering of the Th/Ts ratio which was most marked on d14 and returned to normal on d60. The depression of host immune function during T. spiralis infection might be related to the lowering of Th/Ts ratio. PMID- 2530003 TI - Ventricular expression of atrial natriuretic polypeptide and its relations with hemodynamics and histology in dilated human hearts. Immunohistochemical study of the endomyocardial biopsy specimens. AB - To investigate the mechanism of expression of atrial natriuretic polypeptide (ANP) in human ventricles, we conducted an immunohistochemical study of ANP in biventricular endomyocardial biopsy specimens obtained from a total of 49 patients with cardiac dilatation due to dilated cardiomyopathy (21 patients), postmyocarditis (18 patients), or volume overload (five patients) and subjects with no dilatation as controls (five patients). Four-micron thick sections were stained by an indirect immunoperoxidase method using monoclonal antibody to alpha human ANP as the primary antibody. The frequency of ANP-present myocytes was calculated in each specimen and compared with clinical, echocardiographic, hemodynamic, angiographic, and histologic parameters. ANP-present myocytes were noted in all of the 21 patients with dilated cardiomyopathy, in 11 of the 18 patients with postmyocarditis, in four of the five patients with volume overload, and in zero of the five controls. The mean percentage of ANP-present myocytes was significantly greater in the left-side specimens (35 +/- 37%) than in the right side ones (2 +/- 4%). The percentage of ANP-present myocytes in the left-side specimens significantly correlated with peak systolic or end-diastolic wall stress (r = 0.67 and 0.58), left ventricular end-systolic or end-diastolic volume index (r = 0.75 and 0.69), or left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (r = 0.42) and inversely correlated with ejection fraction (r = -0.73), systolic left ventricular wall thickness (r = -0.58), or cardiac index (r = -0.30). Expression of ANP was rarely seen in the cases with normal wall stresses, normal ejection fraction, normal volume, or normal myocyte size. However, it was seen frequently even in hearts with normal levels of left ventricular end-diastolic pressure and cardiac index (compensated hearts). The percent of ANP-present myocytes in both sides significantly correlated with size of myocytes (r = 0.48 at right and r = 0.57 at left side) or degree of fibrosis (r = 0.45 at right and r = 0.48 at left side). These results suggest that ANP expression is augmented in the dilated ventricles regardless of the causes of dilatation and that the augmentation is a compensatory mechanism as prevention against decompensation responding to reduced contractility, excess of wall stresses, or both, concomitantly occurring with cardiac dilatation and myocardial hypertrophy. PMID- 2530004 TI - Feasibility of tomographic 99mTc-hexakis-2-methoxy-2-methylpropyl-isonitrile imaging for the assessment of myocardial area at risk and the effect of treatment in acute myocardial infarction. AB - 99mTc-hexakis-2-methoxy-2-methylpropyl-isonitrile (Tc-Sestamibi), a new myocardial perfusion radiopharmaceutical, was injected intravenously in 11 patients within 4 hours of the onset of acute myocardial infarction before treatment with intravenous tissue-type plasminogen activator and 6-14 days later. Five patients with acute myocardial infarction who did not receive intravenous thrombolytic therapy underwent a similar injection of radiopharmaceutical. The absence of redistribution of Tc-Sestamibi permitted imaging with single-photon emission computed tomography up to 6 hours after intravenous injection to assess the distribution of myocardial perfusion at the time of administration. The region of hypoperfused myocardium on the initial images varied widely from 9% to 68% of the left ventricle and was significantly greater in anterior than in inferior infarcts (p less than 0.01). The region of hypoperfused myocardium on the final images varied widely from 0% to 63% of the left ventricle and was also greater in anterior infarcts (p less than 0.01). The final hypoperfused region correlated (r = -0.82) with the late resting ejection fraction and with the late regional wall motion score in the infarct segment for both anterior (r = -0.74) and inferior (r = -0.97) infarcts. There was a significant decrease (-13 +/- 11%, p less than 0.003) in the extent of hypoperfused myocardium between the initial and final studies in the patients who received thrombolytic therapy compared with an insignificant increase (4 +/- 6%, p greater than 0.5) in the patients who did not receive thrombolytic therapy. Tomographic imaging with Tc-Sestamibi permits determination of the amount of hypoperfused myocardium "at risk" in acute myocardial infarction. The change in myocardial perfusion determined by Tc Sestamibi before and after therapy in acute myocardial infarction is a promising tool for assessing treatment. PMID- 2530005 TI - HMG CoA reductase inhibitors lower LDL cholesterol without reducing Lp(a) levels. AB - Lp(a) is a plasma lipoprotein particle consisting of a plasminogenlike protein [apo(a)] disulfide bonded to the apo B moiety of low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Increased plasma levels of Lp(a), either independently or interactively with LDL levels, have been shown to be a risk factor for atherosclerosis. Recently, a new class of lipid-lowering drugs, HMG CoA reductase inhibitors, have been introduced. These drugs act by decreasing liver cholesterol synthesis resulting in up-regulation of LDL receptors, increased clearance of LDL from plasma, and diminution of plasma LDL levels. In this study, we examined the effect of HMG CoA reductase inhibitors on Lp(a) levels in three groups of subjects, five volunteers and two groups of five and 14 patients. In all 24 subjects, mean decreases were observed in total cholesterol (43 +/- 5%), total triglyceride (35 +/- 8%), very low-density lipoprotein (45 +/- 9%), and LDL cholesterol (43 +/- 5%). The mean change in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol was an increase of 7 +/- 8%. Despite the very significant decrease in LDL cholesterol levels (p less than 0.001), Lp(a) levels increased by 33 +/- 12% (p less than 0.005). This was not associated with a measurable change in the chemical composition or size of the Lp(a) particle. This emphatically suggests that Lp(a) particles, despite consisting principally of LDL, are cleared from plasma differently than LDL. The surprising finding of an increase in Lp(a) levels suggests this class of drugs may have a direct effect on Lp(a) synthesis or clearance independent of its effect on LDL receptors. PMID- 2530006 TI - Cellular abnormalities in chronically denervated myocardium. Implications for the transplanted heart. AB - Heart transplantation involves chronic effects due to denervation, rejection, and treatment of rejection. The chronically denervated dog heart provides a model for the effects of denervation alone. These hearts have been shown to contain intrinsic neurons with VIP and NPY as possible neurotransmitters. Myocardial tissue noradrenaline concentration falls to very low levels after degeneration of postganglionic sympathetic neurons, but dopamine remains in near-normal concentration and is probably synthesized extraneuronally. ANP is present and released normally; however, the natriuretic response to atrial distension is blunted, suggesting that this response is mainly due to a reflex mechanism. Chronically denervated myocardial tissue exhibits increased oxygen consumption in vitro and increased Na-K, ATPase activity but has normal tissue levels of ATP and creatine phosphate. Glucose oxidation is inhibited in vivo, associated with increased levels of fructose-6-phosphate but normal glucose-6-phosphate, suggesting inhibition of phosphofructokinase activity. However, the enzyme protein concentration of phosphofructokinase, as judged by maximal in vitro activity, is normal. Maximal in vitro activities of succinate dehydrogenase, cytochrome oxidase, monoamine oxidase, calcium-dependent ATPase, and glyceraldehyde-3-dehydrogenase are also normal. From these findings, we would predict that patients with transplanted hearts are likely to show myocardial metabolic inefficiency. PMID- 2530007 TI - Response to ischemia-reperfusion injury in hypertrophic heart. Role of free radical metabolic pathways. AB - Clinical and experimental evidence demonstrates that hypertrophied cardiac tissue is more sensitive to ischemic injury than is normal myocardium. Recent studies indicate that cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury involves the generation of toxic oxygen free radicals. We used the spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR) model, with its otherwise genetically identical control (the Wistar-Kyoto [WKY] rat), to investigate the potential role of enzymes that generate and detoxify oxygen radicals in the sensitivity of hypertrophied heart to ischemia and reperfusion. Because hypertension develops progressively with age in SHRs, we assayed xanthine oxidase, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase at three different time points and found significant fluctuations at different ages. At age 26 weeks, physiological measurements demonstrated hypertension and increased sensitivity to ischemia and reperfusion, measured as significantly decreased left ventricular recovery after injury. At this age, xanthine oxidase, which may generate oxygen radicals, was significantly increased in SHR compared with WKY rats (p = 0.003). Superoxide dismutase, which is a principal step in oxygen-radical detoxification, was significantly lower (p = 0.044). These data suggest that differences in the constitutive levels of oxygen radical metabolic pathways are different in hypertrophied myocardium, and it is suggested that this finding may play a role in the response of these hearts to ischemia-reperfusion injury. PMID- 2530008 TI - Laser-assisted reconstructive vascular surgery. AB - To clarify the efficacy of laser-assisted reconstructive vascular surgery (LARVS) for patients with severe symptoms of peripheral arterial occlusive disease, 118 ischemic legs of 104 patients were retrospectively analyzed (argon:89 and YAG:29 lasers). Of those 118 legs, 26 (22%) had tissue loss, 60 (51%) had rest pain, and 32 (27%) had incapacitating intermittent claudication. The LARVS was adequate in 60 of 118 (51%) and inadequate in 58 of 118 (49%). With argon:89 and Nd:YAG:29 lasers, respectively, 41 of 89 (46%) and 19 of 29 (66%) were adequate. In the superficial femoral artery (SFA) and popliteal artery (PA), the LARVS was adequate in 31 of 43 (72%) in segmental occlusion and in one of 31 (3%) in total length occlusion (p less than 0.001). In segmental occlusion of the SFA, however, argon:89 and Nd:YAG:29 lasers were adequate in four of 12 (33%) and in 10 of 12 (83%), respectively (p less than 0.05). The legs in which laser was used in more than one artery (eight of eight) or in occluded grafts (proximal SFA to distal PA; three of 18) required amputation within 30 days. A follow-up study demonstrated patency in 31 of 34 (91%) 1-24 months later with the argon:89 laser and in 15 of 16 (94%) 1-6 months later with the Nd:YAG:29 laser. This study indicates that LARVS was adequate in segmental occlusions, particularly in SFA and PA lesions; however, total-length occlusions and combination arterial lesions were not appropriate for the currently available laser systems. Laser application should not be performed if a guidewire passes through the lesion, since these lesions may be more appropriately treated with balloon angioplasty. PMID- 2530009 TI - Determinants of left ventricular hypertrophy in patients with aortic stenosis. AB - The determinants of left ventricular (LV) mass were evaluated in 150 patients with aortic stenosis. All patients underwent M-mode, two-dimensional, and Doppler echocardiography. Peak aortic gradients ranged from 9 mmHg to 144 mmHg (mean 52.3 mmHg). The degree of left ventricular hypertrophy, as determined by LV mass index, was compared to several variables, including age, systolic blood pressure, left ventricular function, peak and mean pressure gradients, relative wall thickness, estimated LV systolic pressure, and aortic valve area. The LV mass index varied from 114.1 to 547.2 g/m2 (mean, 159.4 g/m2). Multiple regression analysis revealed that both age and LV function were highly significant predictors of LV mass index. Moreover, LV mass index and systolic blood pressure were significantly greater in patients older than 65 years (P less than .01; P less than .0001, respectively). These results suggest that the severity of left ventricular hypertrophy in the presence of aortic stenosis is multifactorial and not affected only by the hemodynamic severity of aortic stenosis as assessed by aortic valve area or pressure gradient estimation. Patient age, systolic blood pressure, and ventricular function should all be considered when evaluating the degree of left ventricular hypertrophy in patients with aortic stenosis. PMID- 2530010 TI - Markers of collagen metabolism in sera of patients with various rheumatic diseases. AB - The activity of galactosylhydroxylysyl glucosyltransferase (S-GGT) and concentration of the amino-terminal propeptide of type III procollagen, measured with two different radioimmunoassays, S-Pro(III)-N-P and S-Fab, were determined in the sera of 209 patients with various rheumatic diseases. The mean values for all these three assays were elevated in the patients with rheumatoid arthritis, whereas only the mean value for S-GGT was elevated in osteoarthrosis. The mean S GGT but not S-Pro(III)-N-P or S-Fab was also elevated in psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and systemic lupus erythematosus. S-GGT correlated significantly both with S-Pro(III)-N-P and S-Fab in the pooled group of all the patients and in the cases of rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis, and also with S-Fab in the cases of osteoarthrosis. S-Pro(III)-N-P and S-Fab correlated with each other in every disease group. The ratio S-Fab:S-Pro(III)-N-P was significantly higher in the patients with osteoarthrosis, ankylosing spondylitis and systemic lupus erythematosus than in those with rheumatoid arthritis. The data indicate that definite changes can be seen in the values of serum markers of collagen metabolism in rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, osteoarthrosis, ankylosing spondylitis and systemic lupus erythematosus, the most sensitive indicator being S-GGT. PMID- 2530011 TI - Converting enzyme inhibition specifically prevents the development and induces regression of cardiac hypertrophy in rats. AB - Antihypertensive agents have been shown to differ markedly in their effects on the development and regression of cardiac hypertrophy. In view of possible trophic properties of angiotensin II (ANG II), we compared the effects of equipotent antihypertensive doses of the converting enzyme (CE) inhibitor ramipril (1 mg/kg), the calcium antagonist nifedipine (30 mg/kg), and the arterial vasodilator dihydralazine (30 mg/kg) on cardiac mass in rats subjected to banding of the abdominal aorta. Treatment was started either immediately after banding ("prevention experiments") or after hypertension and hypertrophy had already developed ("regression experiments"). Groups of untreated animals with aortic constriction and sham-operated animals served as controls. In the prevention experiments heart weight, myocardial protein content and ANG II plasma levels were significantly increased in untreated animals and in those receiving nifedipine and dihydralazine. In contrast, values obtained in animals treated with ramipril were not different from those seen in normotensive, sham operated controls with the exception of plasma ANG II levels which were lower. Similar results were observed in the second series of studies which examined the effect of antihypertensive agents on the "regression" of cardiac hypertrophy. Treatment was started 6 weeks after aortic banding and continued for another 6 weeks. While all three drugs lowered blood pressure equally well, only ramipril induced a significant and complete regression of cardiac hypertrophy to values not different from sham-operated controls. In addition we studied a group of animals treated with a nonantihypertensive low dose of ramipril (10 micrograms/kg). Remarkably, these animals showed the same complete regression of cardiac hypertrophy as seen in the group receiving the antihypertensive dose of CE inhibitor. Our study indicates a selective advantage of CE inhibitors over other antihypertensive drugs in the prevention and regression of hypertensive cardiac hypertrophy. Importantly, the dissociation between effects on blood pressure and cardiac mass demonstrated in the experiments with a low dose of ramipril stresses the role of factors other than blood pressure and afterload on the development of hypertensive cardiac hypertrophy. One such peptide, thus, may be ANG with its known potential as a growth factor. PMID- 2530012 TI - Effect of the new immunoregulator AS-101 on in vitro functions of mononuclear cells from patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. AB - We studied the in vitro production of interleukin-2 (IL-2), the expression of IL 2 receptors, the absorption of IL-2, and spontaneously expanded suppressor cell function by mononuclear cells from 15 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and 15 healthy control subjects. These functions were studied in the presence or absence of AS-101, a recently described organotellurium compound with immunoregulatory properties. AS-101 was found to be non-toxic to cells from both patient and control groups; it increased the production of IL-2, elevated the percentage of Tac-positive cells even among cells that had been pre-treated with pronase, and ameliorated the absorption of IL-2. It also enhanced the suppressor cell function in cells from SLE patients. Since these functions are known to be defective in vitro in cells of SLE patients, and since preliminary testing of AS 101 in humans indicates that it is a safe drug, this immunoregulatory compound holds promise for a novel and effective treatment of SLE. PMID- 2530013 TI - Lymphokine activity production in graft-versus-host reactions across minor histocompatibility antigen barriers. AB - Activated T cells responding to murine minor histocompatibility antigens (HA) were characterized according to the patterns of lymphokine activity production. Although B10.D2/nSN and BALB/c are mutually non-reactive in mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR), graft-versus-host reaction (GVHR) can be induced by the injection of a large amount of B10.D2/nSN lymphoid cells into irradiated BALB/c recipient mice. Spleen cells from such GVHR mice spontaneously produced interleukin 3 (IL 3)-dependent cell-stimulating activity in cultures, but did not produce interleukin 2 (IL-2). Normal B10.D2/nSN spleen cells also produced IL-3-like activity, but not IL-2 in MLR supernatants, in response to irradiated BALB/c splenocytes. In addition, B-cell stimulatory factor-1 (BSF-1)/interleukin 4 (IL 4) and colony-stimulating factor (CSF) activity were detected in MLR supernatants. The properties of the produced lymphokine activities were similar to those produced in syngeneic transplant mice and syngeneic MLR, but a difference in the time course of lymphokine production existed between GVHR and syngeneic transplant mice. These results indicate that T cells may be activated in vivo in allogeneic transplantation when the donor and the recipient are matched for major HA, and are non-reactive in MLR. Also, the character of lymphokine-producing T cells activated by minor HA may not be qualitatively different from those responding to irradiated syngeneic cells. PMID- 2530014 TI - Accessory and T cell defects in acquired and inherited hypogammaglobulinaemia. AB - Cellular defects in patients with common variable hypogammaglobulinaemia (CVH) and X-linked agammaglobulinaemia (XLA) have been studied in vitro, using a mitogen-driven system of immunoglobulin production. We have confirmed our previous finding of impaired low-density (dendritic) accessory cell function in CVH and now show that accessory cell function is normal in XLA. We demonstrate that macrophage accessory function is normal in CVH. T cell help for IgM production is also deficient in CVH, and T cell help in XLA is also abnormal for both IgG and IgM. Some XLA patients have excessive T suppressor activity. The contribution of these defects to the clinical states is discussed. PMID- 2530016 TI - Renal hyper-responsiveness to blood volume expansion in Brattleboro rats is not related to plasma ANF immunoreactivity. AB - 1. Anaesthetized homozygous Brattleboro (DI) rats were used to study the renal response to iso-oncotic blood volume expansion. 2. With the same degree of hypervolaemia DI rats had exaggerated diuresis, natriuresis, and chloriuresis, but not kaliuresis, compared with heterozygous control rats. This increased excretion resulted in negative water balance by the end of the experiment in DI rats, whereas the controls showed restoration of normal balance. The control rats retained significant amounts of sodium and chloride, the Brattleboro rats, however, did not. 3. The lithium clearance method was used to localize the defect in sodium reabsorption. As judged from this method, there was a significantly lower sodium reabsorption in the proximal tubules as well as in the distal parts of the nephron of DI rats. 4. Plasma immunoreactivity of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) was not different between groups before volume expansion. ANF levels rose and fell similarly in both groups during and after the iso-oncotic infusion. 5. Our results demonstrate that DI rats respond to acute hypervolaemia with an exaggerated diuresis and saluresis. The mechanism of the increased salt excretion may involve inhibition of sodium transport in the proximal tubules as well as in the distal parts of the nephron. These transport defects are not dependent on differing plasma ANF levels. PMID- 2530015 TI - Differences in the metabolism of C4 isotypes in patients with complement activation. AB - The metabolism of the C4 allotypes C4A3,B1 and C4A3,BO was studied in five healthy control subjects and six patients with active immunological disease (five with systemic lupus erythematosus and one with rheumatoid arthritis). The specific aim was to identify any differences in the metabolism of C4A and C4B gene products that may be linked to their documented functional differences in vitro. The fractional catabolic rate of C4A3,B1 in patients was significantly greater than that of C4A3,BO (3.98 +/- 1.37 versus 3.31 +/- 0.85%/h; mean +/- s.d.; P less than 0.05) but there was no difference in control subjects (1.95 versus 1.99%/h). The extravascular:intravascular (EV:IV) distribution ratio of C4A3,B1 was also greater in both patients (1.19 +/- 0.36 versus 0.97 +/- 0.35; P less than 0.01) and controls (0.43 +/- 0.11 versus 0.31 +/- 0.13; P = 0.01). We conclude that C4B1 was catabolized more rapidly than C4A3 in patients with pathological complement activation but not in control subjects. This difference could reflect the relatively greater extravascular distribution (i.e. EV:IV ratio) of C4B at sites of immune complex deposition or, alternatively, different rates of catabolism of inactive C4 isotypes (iC4b). PMID- 2530017 TI - Interrelationship between cortisol and atrial natriuretic factor in the immature ovine fetus. AB - 1. In chronically cannulated ovine fetuses (100-130 days of gestation) the infusion of cortisol (86.7 +/- 15 micrograms/h for 4 h) or human atrial natriuretic factor (ANF; 4.4 micrograms for 2 h) resulted in highly significant increases in the excretion of sodium, chloride, potassium and water. 2. Cortisol had no significant effect on fetal plasma ANF concentrations. All values are mean and s.e.m. Plasma immunoreactive ANF was 53 +/- 5 and 67.3 +/- 13 pmol/L in the 4 h saline infused fetuses, and 51.3 +/- 14.3 and 74 +/- 13.3 pmol/L in cortisol infused fetuses (n = 7). A separate group of fetuses received 2 h infusions of saline or hANF (4.4 micrograms/h), and plasma IR-ANF values were measured (n = 3). The values, at 0, 60, 90 and 120 min were, respectively, 19.7 +/- 3, 17.3 +/- 0.7, 18.7 +/- 3.7 and 20.7 +/- 3.7 pmol/L in the saline infused group, and 25.3 +/- 5.3, 80.7 +/- 32.3, 123.3 +/- 4.3 and 100 +/- 15 pmol/L in the ANF-infused fetuses. 3. Blood cortisol concentrations, in fetuses infused for 4 h with 0.9% NaCl, were 3.1 +/- 0.8 nmol/L (n = 7); in fetuses infused with 0.9% NaCl for 2 h were 3.6 +/- 1 nmol/L (n = 3); in fetuses infused for 4 h with cortisol were 19.9 +/- 1.9 nmol/L (n = 7); and in fetuses infused with hANF for 2 h were 6.0 +/- 3.0 nmol/L (n = 5). 4. There was no effect of fetal hANF infusion on maternal or fetal blood aldosterone concentrations.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530018 TI - Familial expansile osteolysis. AB - Familial expansile osteolysis (FEO) is a unique bone dysplasia, which has, over five generations, affected 42 members of a Northern Ireland family. The disease follows a classic autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance. The condition is distinct enough in its clinical features and natural history to be recognized as a new and unique disease. There are both general and focal skeletal changes, the latter having a predominantly peripheral distribution and an onset from the second decade. Progressive osteoclastic resorption accompanied by medullary expansion leads to severe and painful disabling deformities with a tendency to pathologic fracture. Most affected members of the family have an associated early onset deafness and loss of dentition as a result of unique middle ear and dental abnormalities. The serum alkaline phosphatase and urinary hydroxyproline are elevated to a variable degree, whereas other biochemical indices are normal. The response of the disease to a therapeutic trial using parenteral dichloro methylene-diphosphonate (dichloro-MDP) produced an initial rapid biochemical response, which was not sustained. PMID- 2530020 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor: comparability of venous and arterial plasma measurements in man at rest and during exercise. AB - 1. Simultaneously obtained arterial and venous plasma atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) concentrations were compared at supine rest and during graded dynamic leg exercise in 10 healthy male subjects (aged 33-51 years). 2. Arterial ANF concentrations ranged between 12 and 179 pg/ml and venous concentrations between 9 and 177 pg/ml. 3. A positive correlation between arterial and venous concentrations was found (r = 0.984). 4. Arterial ANF concentrations were higher than venous concentrations in all pairs of samples (n = 31), but the difference was small and changed little with exercise: the mean difference was 5 pg/ml at rest, 12 pg/ml during submaximal exercise and 6 pg/ml during maximal exercise. 5. The extraction ratios for ANF varied greatly, but were in general lower (P less than 0.05) during maximal exercise (median 0.07, range 0.01-0.32) than at rest (median 0.22, range 0.05-0.33). 6. It was concluded that the plasma ANF concentration in a peripheral arm vein is a good indicator of the systemic peptide concentration at rest as well as during dynamic leg exercise. PMID- 2530019 TI - Prolonged decrease in blood pressure after atrial natriuretic peptide infusion in essential hypertension: a new anti-pressor mechanism? AB - 1. To study the anti-hypertensive effects of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), eight patients with mild to moderate essential hypertension, on no treatment, were infused with alpha-human ANP (102-126) (37 pmol min-1 kg-1) or placebo for 60 min and observed for a further 4 h on the fifth day of low and high sodium diets in a randomized, cross-over study. 2. Plasma ANP levels increased over 30 fold into the high pathophysiological range during ANP infusion, but had returned to control values by 60 min after the end of infusion. With ANP infusion, there was a large decrease in supine blood pressure which was similar on both the low and high sodium intakes and was maximal 20-40 min after completion of the infusion. These reductions in blood pressure were sustained for a further 4 h after the end of ANP infusion and for 3 h after plasma ANP levels had returned to control values. 3. Maximal urinary sodium excretion increased 10-fold on the low sodium diet (negative sodium balance 20 mmol) and threefold on the high sodium diet (negative sodium balance 30 mmol) during ANP infusion; however, during the 4 h after infusion, urinary sodium excretion was below placebo values. During ANP infusion, packed cell volume increased significantly on both diets but returned to control values by 4 h after the end of infusion. 4. There were no significant changes in plasma renin activity compared with placebo during or after ANP infusion. However, plasma aldosterone was significantly greater than placebo values after the end of ANP infusion on both low and high sodium diets.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530021 TI - Relation between plasma beta-endorphin and the ventilatory response to hypercapnia in humans. AB - 1. Endogenous opioids have been implicated in the control of breathing in neonates, but their role in ventilatory control in adults remains unclear. 2. We studied the relationship between circulating immunoreactive beta-endorphin and the ventilatory and mouth occlusion pressure responses to hypercapnia in 12 healthy male subjects. In addition, we examined the effect of repetitive hypercapnia on plasma beta-endorphin and cortisol levels. 3. A weak but significant negative relationship between the ventilatory response to hypercapnia and basal plasma beta-endorphin levels was observed (r = -0.35, P less than 0.01). A similar negative relationship was noted between mouth occlusion pressure response to hypercapnia and basal plasma beta-endorphin levels (r = -0.36, P less than 0.01). 4. Repetitive hypercapnia prevented the fall in plasma cortisol that occurred under control conditions (P less than 0.02) but had no effect on plasma beta-endorphin. 5. We conclude that plasma beta-endorphin may play a role in the central chemical control of breathing in man. PMID- 2530022 TI - Erythrocyte membrane calcium adenosine 5'-triphosphatase activity in the spontaneously hypertensive rat. AB - 1. Ca2+-adenosine 5'-triphosphatase (Ca2+-Mg2+-ATPase) activity was studied simultaneously in calmodulin-deficient erythrocyte ghost membranes and inside-out vesicles (IOVs) from 12-week-old female spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and their matched controls: [Wistar-Kyoto normotensive rats (WKY)], and in detergent extracts of ghost membranes. 2. Both adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP)-dependent Ca2+ uptake by IOVs and Ca2+-dependent ATP hydrolysis activity of ghost membranes were reduced significantly in the SHR compared with WKY, when either the calmodulin-independent or calmodulin-stimulated activities were compared. 3. The ratios between Ca2+ uptake and ATP hydrolysis activities in the SHR remained approximately 1.0, showing a proportional reduction in both activities. 4. No difference in affinity for calmodulin was observed between SHR and WKY. 5. No significant difference in Ca2+-dependent ATP hydrolysis activity was observed between SHR and WKY after detergent solubilization of erythrocyte ghost membranes. 6. These results suggest that the number of Ca2+-Mg2+-ATPase units are similar in SHR and WKY and that the reduced activity in the intact SHR membrane is due to altered membrane environment. PMID- 2530023 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide release during sleep in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea before and during treatment with nasal continuous positive airway pressure. AB - 1. Plasma levels of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) were measured in seven patients with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) while they were awake, during repetitive apnoea and during treatment with nasal continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). 2. ANP levels in both pulmonary artery and peripheral venous samples were elevated during apnoeic sleep and reduced when apnoea was prevented by nasal CPAP. Mean values of pulmonary artery ANP were 116.3 +/- 17.9 pg/ml during apnoea and 64.8 +/- 15.2 pg/ml (P less than 0.05) on nasal CPAP. 3. It is concluded that there is increased ANP release during sleep in patients with OSA and that CPAP treatment normalizes ANP secretion. These findings may explain previously identified urinary abnormalities in OSA. PMID- 2530025 TI - [Clinico-therapeutic experience with a new antihypertensive drug, ketanserin, in elderly patients]. AB - After a placebo run-in period (one week) 32 hypertensive patients suffering also from other disorders (cardiovascular pathology, diabetes, psychic or neurotic pathology) were treated with ketanserin (20 mg twice daily p.o. for 15 days followed by 40 mg twice daily for another 65 days). The patients' (13 men, 10 women) ages ranged from 54-94 years (average 69 years). Therapeutic results became manifest gradually with significant reductions of systolic and diastolic blood pressure; heart rate, too, had decreased slightly at the end of the treatment period. Global evaluation yielded favorable results in 59% of patients. Topical and systemic tolerance was satisfactory. PMID- 2530024 TI - [Aztreonam and oxacillin in the treatment of febrile neutropenic patients with solid tumors]. AB - 22 consecutive febrile episodes in 21 neutropenic (PMN less than 1000/mmc) cancer patients, were treated with aztreonam and oxacillin. Nineteen patients were severely neutropenic (PMN less than 500/mmc). Cure was obtained in 86% of the febrile episodes, including 6/7 bacteriologically documented gram negative infections. No major side effects were observed. These results seem to indicate that aztreonam is effective as empiric treatment of gram negative infections in neutropenic patients. However, it must be used in combination with another antibiotic to ensure gram positive coverage. PMID- 2530026 TI - [Evaluation of the efficacy and tolerance of BPAA gel in 48 patients with extra articular rheumatic diseases and in 52 patients with osteoarthritis in the painful phase. Open non-comparative study]. AB - An open trial was carried out in 100 outpatients suffering from osteoarthritis (52 subjects) or extra-articular rheumatic disorders (48 subjects). Treatment consisted in topical application 3 times daily of an experimental product, BPAA gel, with 3% of active substance, for 2 weeks. During treatment the use of steroidal and non-steroidal analgesic and antiinflammatory agents or of any other drug apt to interfere with the parameters of evaluation was carefully avoided. Patients cooperated actively in subjective evaluation of pain parameters (Visual Analogue Self-rating Scale) which was used to integrate objective evaluation. Treatment response was very favorable, the drug proving effective in 83% and fairly effective in 5.7% of patients with osteoarthritis (total 88.7%). The corresponding figures for patients with extra-articular rheumatic disorders were 83.4% and 6.2% (total 89.0%). No local or systemic side-effects were observed in any of the 100 patients, nor did laboratory tests reveal any untoward actions of the drug. PMID- 2530027 TI - [Treatment of soft tissue trauma with BPAA gel. Results of an Italian multicenter study vs. placebo]. AB - A double-blind study vs placebo was carried out on 82 pts suffering from soft tissue trauma, to evaluate the efficacy and tolerance of a new anti-inflammatory, non-steroidal analgesic for topical use, 3% BPAA. Clinical results obtained by the group treated with BPAA gel were highly significant (p = 0.01) and positive, showing absence of local and systemic side-effects. Accordingly, BPAA gel can be recommended for treatment of soft tissue trauma. PMID- 2530029 TI - [Netilmicin in single daily doses for the bacterial bronchopulmonary complications in patients with advanced bronchogenic carcinoma]. AB - In 40 patients with bacterial bronchopulmonary complications during polychemotherapy for advanced bronchogenic carcinoma, once-daily netilmicin (4.5 mg/kg every 24 h) brought about complete resolution of the infective process in 90% of the cases and eradication of the responsible pathogen in 82%. This result must be considered good in view of the patients' precarious condition due to their advanced neoplastic disease. PMID- 2530028 TI - [Cefotetan in the therapy of respiratory infections. Multicenter research]. AB - In a controlled multicenter trial 291 patients have been treated with cefotetan. They suffered from acute or chronic exacerbated bronchopulmonary disorders. In 110 patients it was possible to identify the etiological agent: enterobacteria (62), non-fermentative gram-negative bacilli (10), Haemophilus influenzae (8), Branhamella catarrhalis (1), Streptococcus pneumoniae (19), Staphylococcus aureus (12), Streptococcus pyogenes (4). In the exacerbations of chronic bronchitis (203), cefotetan was generally administered at the dose of 1 g/12 h i.m., whereas it was administered at the dose of 2 g/12 h i.v. in acute infection. The mean duration of therapy was 8.8 days. Positive clinical results were obtained in 251 patients (86.2%) with eradication of the pathogen initially isolated in 90.5% of cases. Cefotetan showed good local and general tolerance. The results obtained confirm those of studies concerning limited numbers of patients and show the efficacy of cefotetan both in acute and chronic pathologies, also in patients with serious involvement of their general conditions (concomitant pathologies, high mean age). PMID- 2530030 TI - [Piperacillin in the therapy of severe bacterial infections: comparison of its efficacy and tolerance vs. ceftazidime]. AB - 38 patients with severe acute bacterial systemic infections have been enrolled in this study: 19 patients were treated with piperacillin (100-200 mg/kg/day) and 19 with ceftazidime (45-90 mg/kg/day) by i.v. route. In both groups monotherapy has been found effective and well tolerated. Serious side-effects have not been observed. The high cure and eradication rates in both groups do not show statistically significant differences (chi 2 = 0.620 and chi 2 = 0.219, respectively, p greater than 0.05). PMID- 2530031 TI - [Opioid peptides and digestive activity. Recent directions of physiopathology]. AB - The authors, after having set out the classification and general significance of endogenous opioids (e.o.) on the basis of the most recent researches, have focused attention on the activity of the opioid peptides in gastroenterology. They summarize the main effects of the opioids on the basic digestive functions: secretion, endoluminal digestion, motility, absorption. Particular importance is attributed to the activity of the e.o. on gastric and duodenal secretion. Finally, the possible therapeutic implications of e.o. in the management of digestive disorders are examined. PMID- 2530033 TI - [Research on accidents in a tire-producing plant]. AB - In the autumn of 1987 the U.S.L. health service (prevention, hygiene and occupational safety section) began a study about the accidents in a firm manufacturing tyres, placed in its own area. The retrospective enquiry starts from the analysis of typology, diffusion and seriousness of occupational accidents. The firm's accident register has been analyzed and integrated with other necessary information provided by the firm, by I.N.A.I.L. and by the air force metereological service. The study has been carried out on data concerning the following years: 1984-1985-1986. The accidents considered, implied absence from work and were divided as follows: for absence up till 3 days (in franchise), and more than 3 days (indemnified), applying the average value calculated on one year of the three analyzed. Every accident has been analyzed per year, month, day, hour of event. According to the classes: circumstances, kind of lesion, site of lesion, period of absence from work. The indices of: frequency, seriousness, incidence, mean duration have been calculated. The average monthly values of temperature: max and min. of the area and to the average monthly amount of processed elastomer (rate of production). The statistics we obtained, justified the study and showed the operative solution. The aspect of sanitary education and the general psychological aspect regarding the accident have been considered. Moreover the general operative solutions for the firm and specific ones for every department and for every position have been shown and faced up to. In this way, according to the risks that have emerged from the enquiries on previous accidents and thanks to direct inspection. it was possible to prevent accidents. PMID- 2530032 TI - [Current results and prospects of intra-arterial chemotherapy in hepatic metastases of carcinoma of the colorectum]. AB - The development of safe arterial access devices and totally implantable or portable infusion pumps for intrahepatic chemotherapy has generated a renewed interest in regional treatment of liver metastases from colo-rectal primaries. Several phase II trials have been carried out, mostly using prolonged infusion of fluorinated pyrimidines showing very high activity for this method of treatment with response rates up to 80%. Randomized trials between systemic and regional therapy have confirmed the higher efficacy of arterial treatment in inducing objective responses but neither of the two studies with a follow-up long enough to assess survival data showed a clear advantage for the patients receiving intraarterial chemotherapy. Gastroduodenitis, ulcers and chemical hepatitis are frequently observed in patients treated with intrahepatic arterial chemotherapy but their incidence can be substantially reduced by a careful surgical procedure during the implant of the arterial catheter and by a close follow-up during chemotherapy. Since toxicity can be serious and no definitive improvement of survival has been shown, this modality of treatment is still applicable only in an investigational setting. PMID- 2530034 TI - [Efficacy of sucralfate in the prevention of stomach diseases induced by non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs]. AB - In 20 patients suffering from osteoarthritis and treated with non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for one month sucralfate has been added for further two months. Endoscopic examination before/after this treatment confirmed the cytoprotective property of sucralfate, with normalization of the gastric mucosa and subsidence of subjective symptomatology. PMID- 2530035 TI - [Bone marrow aplasia associated with ticlopidine treatment in a patient with idiopathic hypothyroidism]. AB - A new case of severe bone-marrow aplasia due to Ticlopidine therapy is described. On the basis also of immunologic findings, the drug seems to be the cause of the hematologic syndrome. The presence of an idiopathic hypothyroidism may have favored the immune mediated reaction to the drug. PMID- 2530036 TI - Characterization of two Ca-ATPases in gill epithelium from the killifish (Fundulus heteroclitus). AB - 1. Two Ca-ATPases in the gill microsomal fraction from the killifish (Fundulus heteroclitus) have been characterized. 2. A (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-ATPase which has a high affinity for Ca2+, requires Mg2+ for activity and may be stimulated by calmodulin. 3. A (Ca2+ + Na+)-ATPase which has a low affinity for Ca2+ requires Na+ for activity, does not require Mg2+ and is probably not stimulated by calmodulin. 4. These enzymes may play a physiological role in killifish calcium regulation. PMID- 2530037 TI - Soluble oil dermatitis: a follow-up study. AB - A pilot follow-up study of patients with soluble oil dermatitis was designed to investigate the effects on prognosis of aetiology and of stopping working with soluble oils. A questionnaire was sent to 121 machine operators who had been diagnosed over a 5-year period. Life table analysis of the 100 replies (83%) revealed a poor prognosis both for those who had continued to work with soluble oils and for those who had stopped. 78% (95% confidence intervals: 63%-94%) of those who continued to work with soluble oils had not healed 2 years after diagnosis. 70% (95% confidence intervals: 56%-83%) of those who stopped working with soluble oil had not healed 2 years after discontinuing contact. Both groups were divided into 4 subgroups with different combinations of aetiological components: allergic and endogenous, non-allergic and endogenous, allergic and non-endogenous, non-allergic and non-endogenous. No significant difference in outcome emerged in either the discontinued contact group or the continued contact group between any aetiological subgroups. Patients who discontinued contact with soluble oils fell into 2 groups: those who healed rapidly and those who developed a chronic dermatitis. 11 of the 15 patients who had healed after 2 years had done so within the first 3 months following cessation of contact. No factor could be identified to distinguish those with the more favourable prognosis. The implications of this study for the management of soluble oil dermatitis are discussed. PMID- 2530038 TI - Contact sensitivity to topical antimicrobials (I). Epidemiology in Singapore. AB - 18% (571/3145) of patients attending a contact dermatitis clinic in Singapore had contact sensitivity to one or more topical antimicrobials. The rates in males and females were similar. The rate for patients under 50 years old was 16% and for those over 50 years old 30% (p less than 0.0001). There were no significant differences in the rates among Chinese, Malays, Indians and other races. The antimicrobials proflavine, neomycin and clioquinol were the commonest sensitizers. PMID- 2530039 TI - Dermal contact dermatitis from benzylparaben. PMID- 2530040 TI - Contact allergy to ketoprofen. PMID- 2530041 TI - Delayed and immediate hypersensitivity to carbitols. PMID- 2530042 TI - Contact dermatitis due to diisopropanolamine. PMID- 2530043 TI - Allergic contact dermatitis in a pastry cook. PMID- 2530044 TI - Long-term prognosis in occupational chromate allergy: an attempted 18-year follow up study. PMID- 2530045 TI - Contact dermatitis from topical imidazole antifungals: 15 new cases. AB - Contact allergy from topical imidazole antifungals is seldom reported. 15 such cases, over a 12-year period, are reported here. Results are discussed particularly with regard to imidazole cross-reactions and to sensitization to topicals combining miconazole and hydrocortisone. PMID- 2530046 TI - The nickel content of moulded bricks as building material. PMID- 2530047 TI - Allergic contact dermatitis from epsilon-aminocaproic acid. PMID- 2530048 TI - A new allergen responsible for shoe allergy: chloroacetamide. PMID- 2530049 TI - Occupational allergic contact dermatitis from styrene. PMID- 2530050 TI - Allergic contact dermatitis from transdermal nitroglycerin. PMID- 2530051 TI - Contact dermatitis from Nitroderm. PMID- 2530052 TI - Photodermatitis and photo-aggravated dermatitis in an Indian steel plant. PMID- 2530053 TI - Contact allergy in the pharmaceutical industry. PMID- 2530054 TI - Primula dermatitis: more than one allergen? PMID- 2530055 TI - Erythroderma due to ribostamycin. AB - A 48-year-old man became erythrodermatous after intramuscular administration of ribostamycin, an aminoglycoside antibiotic in the same family as neomycin. Patch tests were positive to ribostamycin and neomycin, as well as to mercurials. There was no mercurial preservative in the injection solution. A lymphocyte transformation test was positive for ribostamycin and tobramycin, but not for gentamycin. Diagnostic and structure-activity relationship aspects of the case are discussed. PMID- 2530056 TI - Allergic contact dermatitis from topical corticosteroids. AB - 22 cases of allergic contact dermatitis from topical corticosteroids were observed in Strasbourg and previously published. 7 further cases are reported here and the vehicle and concentration of corticosteroids for patch tests are discussed. A 0.1% concentration in petrolatum seemed adequate for testing the 4 molecules (triamcinolone acetonide, dexamethasone, desonide and amcinonide) responsible for the 7 new cases. In 1 case, several cross-reactions were seen. A corticosteroid screening series permits patch testing of the suspected molecule(s) in a selective way. Without this series, long delays are required to make the correct diagnosis by patch testing. We have reviewed more than 60 papers on corticosteroid allergy published up to now. PMID- 2530057 TI - Analysis of heparan sulfate from the Engelbreth-Holm-Swarm (EHS) tumor. AB - The size of the heparan sulfate chains from the Engelbreth-Holm-Swarm (EHS) tumor heparan sulfate proteoglycan (PG) was measured by several techniques in order to resolve uncertainty about their size and the chains were chemically characterized for comparison with other basement membrane heparan sulfate PGs. Heparan sulfate size was determined by gel filtration (Mr = 5.5 - 6.0 x 10(4], by equilibrium sedimentation centrifugation (Mw = 6.8 x 10(4], and by end group analysis (Mn = 7.1 x 10(4]. A higher molecular weight (HMW) (Mw = 2.13 x 10(5] calculated from scattering measurements may reflect chain-chain interactions. Forty percent of newly synthesized chains eluted on gel filtration as a lower molecular weight (LMW) shoulder and in vivo turned over faster than the larger species. A large heparan sulfate PG was present after 4 hours of in vivo 35SO4 labeling in both a low density form and a high density, slightly smaller form with large heparan sulfate chains (Mr approximately 8.0 x 10(4]. Heparan sulfate PG of intermediate size (Kav = 0.3-0.65, Sepharose CL-4B) and of smaller size (Kav = 0.75, CL-4B) were found predominantly as high density species. These PGs contained chains (Mr = 3.5 x 10(4) and Mr = 1.2 x 10(4), respectively) which were partially sensitive to chondroitinase ABC (CABC) and may include a hybrid heparan sulfate/chondroitin sulfate PG. Heparan sulfate chains, possibly intracellular degradation products, were also found. Heparan sulfate chains were normal in N-sulfation (58% of hexosamine residues) and in iduronate content (approximately 30%). N-sulfation started within two disaccharides of the linkage region. The EHS heparan sulfate was unusually low in O-sulfation (10% of the total sulfation) and no 6-O sulfated, N-acetylated glucosamine residues adjacent to N-sulfated block regions were found. PMID- 2530058 TI - T cell leakiness in scid mice. AB - FACS analysis showed that the incidence of leaky T cells increases with age, such that virtually all old scid mice (greater than 1 year) contain detectable CD3+ cells. The number of detectable T cells remained very low; individual old scid mice generally contained less than 10(5) CD3+ cells. When CD3+ populations in individual leaky mice were analyzed for expression of the T cell subset markers, CD4 and CD8, the ratios of CD4/CD8 were found to be markedly skewed relative to normal mice. This suggested the presence of very few T cell clones. Indeed, the analysis of TCR gene rearrangements in polyclonally stimulated T cell cultures revealed only 1-5 clones in the pooled spleen and lymph nodes of individual old scid mice. These studies also indicated that TCR gene rearrangements in the majority of the stimulated T cell cultures did not contain abnormal J-associated deletions that are characteristic of antigen receptor genes of scid lymphomas. Four of five alloreactive T cell clones from leaky scid mice also apparently lacked abnormal J-associated deletions in their rearranged TCR alleles. Therefore, most leaky lymphocytes appear to derive from progenitors with normal or near-normal scid recombinase activity. However, one of five leaky T cell clones (S1233) and one Con A stimulated monoclonal culture (8706) contained both normally and abnormally rearranged TCR genes. The configuration of TCR loci in such clones may reflect the ability of the defective scid recombinase to mediate normal rearrangements at a low frequency. PMID- 2530059 TI - Scid mice in reproductive biology. PMID- 2530060 TI - Rearrangement of T cell receptor delta genes in thymus of scid mice. PMID- 2530061 TI - Refined sublocalization of the human gene encoding the beta subunit of the S100 protein (S100B) and confirmation of a subtle t(9;21) translocation using in situ hybridization. AB - The gene which encodes the beta subunit of the S100 protein was mapped to 21q22.2 ---q22.3 by in situ hybridization. Concurrently, a subtle translocation involving this region of chromosome 21 and 9q34 was confirmed. PMID- 2530062 TI - Use of a hot-film anemometer system for cardiovascular studies, with special reference to the ascending aorta. PMID- 2530063 TI - Immune complex modulation by plasma proteins. With special reference to the complement system and autoimmune diseases. AB - The complement (C) system consists of two activation pathways, the classical and the alternative, which may both be activated by immune complexes (IC). C activation products become attached to the IC during activation leading to profound changes in the properties of the complexes. The common terminal C pathway is not involved in activation mediated by fluid phase IC. The interaction between IC and C may lead to: 1) Increased solubility of the IC. 2) Enhanced phagocytosis and clearance of the IC. 3) Altered tissue distribution of the IC. 4) Generation of soluble C fragments which mediate inflammation. 5) Tissue damage by activation and/or lysis of bystanding cells. 6) Modulation of B-cell proliferation and differentiation. Activation of the C system by IC is an essential normal component in the clearance of invading foreign material. However, in conditions with a persistent high concentration of IC in the circulation or tissues, this activation may lead to chronic inflammatory disease. This thesis reviews certain aspects of the interactions between IC and C. The earlier work describes our development of an assay for measuring the C activity in patient sera by its ability to solubilize preformed, fluid phase IC (CMS assay). The CMS was found to be dependent upon the alternative pathway of C and facilitated by the classical. Further studies concerning the influence of C deficiencies or depletion of C factors, the concentration of divalent metallions, the temperature and the ionic strength were performed to characterize the reaction. The CMS assay, showed that serum from patients with SLE and other systemic persistent inflammatory diseases and infections exhibited a reduced capacity to solubilize IC. The CMS values correlated inversely to the disease activity in SLE patients. It was also for the first time demonstrated that serum from some SLE patients contained a CMS inhibitor and it is suggested that this inhibitor of CMS is endogenously formed incompletely C solubilized IC. This suggestion is based upon several lines of indirect evidence, and by HPLC size distribution analysis of the IC in SLE sera, which showed a reduction in IC size upon incubation with C. A negative correlation between the CMS capacity and the content of CMS inhibitory material was found. The CMS capacity did not correlate to the serum concentration of any of the C factors C3b/C3c, C4, Clq, factor B, factor H or factor I, nor did it correlate to the concentration of the degradation product C3dg. But a low concentration of one of the native C factors was associated with a reduced CMS.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2530065 TI - Congenital cardiovascular malformations in Chinese children with Down's syndrome. AB - 149 Chinese children (70 boys, 79 girls) with Down's syndrome and congenital heart disease were studied. Diagnosis of the cardiac abnormality was made by cardiac catheterisation in 119, two-dimensional echocardiography in 23 and autopsy in 7. The commonest lesion was ventricular septal defect which was present in 43.6%, a higher frequency than that reported in Caucasians. Other common lesions included atrioventricular septal defect (15.4%), atrial septal defect (13.4%), tetralogy in Fallot (13.4%) and patent ductus arteriosus (12.1%). Multiple lesions occurred in 36% of the cases, with patent ductus arteriosus, the most frequent coexisting lesion. Other cyanotic congenital heart conditions were very rare and coarctation of aorta was not seen. An aberrant right subclavian artery arising from the descending aorta was present in 16.5% and abnormalities of the radial artery at the wrist were found in 19%. The literature on patterns of congenital heart diseases seen in Down's syndrome was reviewed. PMID- 2530066 TI - [Laparoscopy in the diagnosis of polycystic ovarian syndrome]. AB - From March 1980 through June 1986, 93 patients clinically diagnosed as having polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) were subject to laparoscopic examinations and laparoscopic ovarian biopsy. After statistical analysis of the results of the study, two improved diagnostic criteria for PCOS were suggested and compared with those proposed by Wortsman, et al and Stein-Leventhal. We think that the two improved diagnostic criteria are more suitable to the clinical practice and increase the diagnostic rate of PCOS to be 85% and 74% respectively. No operative complications such as intraabdominal hemorrhage, mechanical or electric injuries or infection was observed. The accuracy and criteria of laparoscopic diagnosis of PCOS are discussed. PMID- 2530064 TI - Platelet-specific alpha-granule proteins and thrombospondin in bronchoalveolar lavage in the adult respiratory distress syndrome. AB - Levels of platelet-specific alpha-granule proteins, PF, BTG, and TSP were measured in BAL fluids of patients with the ARDS, ILD, and normal healthy subjects, comprising two separate cohorts. In both groups BAL showed elevated levels of BTG and thrombospondin in ARDS patients. Low levels of PF4 were found in BAL and did not differ between ARDS and control patients. The BTG:PF4 ratio was 2:1 or greater in BAL of ARDS patients and of control subjects with other lung diseases, suggesting in vivo release. In ARDS patients, the ratio of TSP to BTG exceeded that usually found in plasma. In ARDS patients in group 2, BAL levels of TSP, BTG, and total protein correlated strongly with the composite injury scores that were used to quantitate their degree of lung injury. Elevated levels of platelet-derived proteins, which modulate chemotaxis of inflammatory cells and promote connective tissue reorganization, occur in the alveolar compartment of ARDS and ILD patients but are usually undetectable in BAL of healthy control subjects. Levels in these patients in BAL fluid are nonspecific indices of the severity of lung injury in patients with ARDS. PMID- 2530067 TI - [Progesterone receptors in endometrial carcinoma and their response to medroxyprogesterone acetate]. AB - Progesterone receptors (PR) were measured in 18 cases of endometrial carcinoma using the dextran-coated charcoal assay. The histological changes and PR levels of the endometrial carcinoma after the medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) treatment were studied. A higher PR levels were observed in well-differentiated tumors. After treatment with MPA, the PR content was reduced and histological appearance similar to normal endometrium was noticed. The histological changes of the tumor was closely related to the receptor levels. PMID- 2530068 TI - [Study of mechanisms in the pathogenesis of myelodysplastic syndrome: changes in lymphocyte subpopulations]. AB - The mechanism of pathogenesis in myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is still unknown up to the present day, but examination of blood and bone marrow from 22 patients with MDS showed that the majority had low lymphocyte counts in bone marrow. Using monoclonal antibodies (MoAbs) OKT3, OKT4 and OKT8 combined with SRBC rosettes, the authors found that there was a significant decrease of OKT3-defined Pan-T lymphocytes in peripheral blood. This reduction was primarily confined to the OKT4-defined helper subset, but there was a relative increase in the OKT8-defined suppressor subpopulation. As a result, the ration OKT4/OKT8 was reversed. The data of MLC test also showed abnormalities of cell-mediated immunity function in the patients. The significance of these observed changes in the pathogenesis of MDS was discussed. PMID- 2530069 TI - Enzymic pathways of hyaluronan catabolism. AB - The enzymic degradation of hyaluronan in mammalian tissues takes place in two phases, encompassing breakdown of the polysaccharide to its monosaccharide constituents and subsequent utilization of the monosaccharide products. Degradation to the monosaccharide components is effected by the concerted action of three enzymes, hyaluronidase, beta-D-glucuronidase and beta-N-acetyl-D hexosaminidase. The relative contributions of hyaluronidase and the two exoglycosidases to the physiological catabolism of hyaluronan are not yet known but consideration of the kinetic properties of the three enzymes clearly indicates that hyaluronidase is best suited for the initial attack on the polysaccharide, inasmuch as its Km for hyaluronan is 1000- to 10,000-fold lower than that estimated for beta-D-glucuronidase. Recent investigations in the authors' laboratories have been focused on the catabolism of hyaluronan and other complex carbohydrates in liver, since the sinusoidal endothelial cells in this organ are the main sites for degradation of circulating hyaluronan. Assay of ten lysosomal hydrolases in isolated rat liver cells showed considerably higher activities in Kupffer cells and endothelial cells than in hepatocytes for nine of the enzymes, including beta-D-glucuronidase and beta-N-acetyl-D-hexosaminidase. The activity of N-acetylglucosamine-6-phosphate deacetylase, a key enzyme in the metabolism of the N-acetylglucosamine released by the lysosomal degradation of hyaluronan and other complex carbohydrates, has also been determined. High deacetylase activities were observed in both Kupffer cells and endothelial cells but, surprisingly, virtually no activity was detected in hepatocytes. This finding implies that N-acetylglucosamine cannot be degraded in hepatocytes and must be largely reutilized in the synthesis of new macromolecules. Further studies of the enzymes involved in hyaluronan degradation and N-acetylglucosamine utilization in the liver are under way. PMID- 2530070 TI - Kinetics of mixed lymphocyte reaction after blood transfusions. AB - The kinetics of mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) was studied in an unrelated pair of potential kidney graft donor and recipient. The recipient immunological reactivity to donor cells was specifically modulated by donor blood transfusions. Prior to transfusions, recipient MLR to donor lymphocytes expressed as per cent of the relative response (% RR) was 85.73. It dropped to 43.75 on the 21st posttransfusion day, and was as low as 19.16 on the 151st day (5th month). Next, a gradual increase in MLR occurred. The % RR increased to 46.15 in the 9th month and returned close to the pretransfusion level, to 78.30, in the 12th month. Transplantation of the kidney from the potential donor was not performed. PMID- 2530071 TI - The effect of 0.5% thymoxamine on the pattern-onset electroretinogram. AB - Thymoxamine constricts the pupil without significant effect on accommodation and was used in this study because of the extreme sensitivity of the pattern electroretinogram (PERG) to defocus at high spatial frequencies. Pilocarpine, used in previous studies, can cause an unpredictable spasm of accommodation. A reduction in pupil size has two effects on the PERG due to illuminance and optical degradation. Illuminance differences can be compensated by neutral density filters. This allows the effects of optical degradation on the PERG to be examined under conditions of constant adaptation. Our studies on a group of 10 subjects have shown the PERG to be proportional to contrast. As contrast degradation is reduced with a smaller pupil, a larger PERG amplitude is predicted. However the tuning of neural elements under constant adaptation should not alter. Pattern onset ERGs were recorded from a further 10 subjects in response to checkerboards of various spatial frequencies under two conditions, a) with pupils moised by thymoxamine hydrochloride 0.5% and b) with natural pupils. Adaptation level was equated by a 0.4 neutral density filter before the natural pupils. The group-averaged PERGs were analyzed into retinal illuminance and pattern-specific responses. A paired t-test showed the pattern-onset ERG amplitudes to be significantly different in the two conditions, but the computed pattern-specific responses were virtually identical. These results therefore support the theory and method used for the extraction of the pattern-specific response. PMID- 2530073 TI - ["Dark and light" cells of apocrine sweat glands]. PMID- 2530072 TI - Naka-Rushton equation parameters in electroretinogram analysis of daunomycin effects on retinal function. AB - Intraocular daunomycin may inhibit intravitreal cellular proliferation in proliferative vitreoretinopathy after rhegmatogenous retinal detachments and retinal reattachment surgery. Doses of 15 nmol or more have shown histological retinal toxicity when injected into the intact vitreous of rabbit eyes. We injected 30, 20, 10 and 0 nmol doses of daunomycin into rabbit eyes with gas compressed vitreous to better simulate the clinical conditions in which it would be used. We then evaluated effects on retinal function by examining scotopic b wave amplitudes, measured for a four log unit set of intensities. We used the three independent parameters Rmax, log K, and n of the Naka-Rushton equation to measure changes in retinal function. All three doses of daunomycin failed to measurably depress retinal function (i.e., there were no dose-related losses of Rmax, log K or n) in this experimental model. We used this approach to monitor alterations in retinal function since it can show selective changes in each parameter. This selectivity is an advantage over monitoring retinal function with single intensities or comparisons limited solely to electroretinogram amplitudes. PMID- 2530074 TI - [Electronic data processing storage and analysis of allergologic data with reference to epidemiologic and occupational dermatologic aspects]. AB - At our contact dermatitis clinic the computer program ALLDAT (Allergy Data System) was developed with the opportunity of storing and analysing different patients data and various kinds of test reactions with regard to epidemiology and occupational dermatology. Because of the internal construction of the data base, high flexibility and optimization of storage (2000 patient/year----1 MB) is achieved. Persons without both program and computer experience are able to enter data, perform analysis and view results after a short period of instruction. PMID- 2530075 TI - Occupational dermatoses in workers exposed to epoxy-impregnated fiberglass fabric. AB - In December, 1985, and February, 1986, skin diseases were investigated among workers in a plant producing printed circuit boards made of copper sheets and fiberglass fabric impregnated with a brominated epoxy resin. A questionnaire was sent to all 159 employees, 143 responded (89.9%). Previous or current dermatoses were reported by 84 workers and 79 of these were examined and patch tested. The patch testing was conducted with a standard test series and with products from the work environment. These tests revealed contact allergy to diglycidylether of bisphenol A ("epoxy") in 6 persons. Besides these 6 individuals with occupational allergic contact dermatitis, occupational dermatoses were diagnosed in an additional 29 workers; irritant contact dermatitis in 28 and chemical burn in one. Altogether, 35 (22.0%) demonstrated evidence of occupational dermatoses. PMID- 2530076 TI - [Post-traumatic scleroedema adultorum (Buschke)]. AB - A 48-year-old male developed an induration of the skin of the neck a few days after a blunt trauma to this region had occurred. A diagnosis of scleredema adultorum (Buschke) could be established 3 years later. In view of the history and the lack of other diseases thought to be related to the elicitation of scleredema, a traumatic origin of the skin condition is probable. PMID- 2530077 TI - [The dangers of olaquindox. Photoallergy, chronic photosensitive dermatitis and extreme increased photosensitivity in the human, hypoaldosteronism in swine]. AB - The antibiotic olaquindox, an ingredient added to porker feed to increase overall performance, caused a photoallergic contact eczema and subsequently a chronic photosensitive dermatitis with increased UV-A- and UV-B-sensitivity in a breeder of small pigs. Through the use of sun creams he developed an additional (photo)allergic contact eczema to the sunscreens contained in the creams. PMID- 2530078 TI - [Hypersensitivity to levobunolol]. AB - A case is described in which, following local application of glaucoma eye drops containing Levobunolol, a recurring allergic contact eczema with periocular localisation occurred. In the course of the epicutaneous allergy testing a positive reaction (crescendo-type) could be clearly demonstrated experimentally against both the eye drops and their active ingredient, levobunolol hydrochloride, a beta-blocker (beta-sympatholyticum) out of the class of the aryloxypropylamines. PMID- 2530079 TI - [Single-photon emission-computed tomography in the differential diagnosis of dementia]. AB - To assess the value of single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) in the differential diagnosis of dementia SPECT and conventional computed tomography were performed in 77 patients (50 men, 27 women, mean age 59 [28-90] years) with dementia diagnosed by a battery of psychometric tests. In 13 out of 15 patients with dementia of Alzheimer type SPECT showed a typical Alzheimer pattern (bilateral parietotemporal perfusion defects). Both patients with dementia of Pick type had definite decreases in frontal perfusion. All 21 patients with dementia due to Huntington's chorea showed a typical pattern with absent perfusion of the head of the caudate nucleus, although in three of them conventional computed tomography didn't demonstrate complete atrophy of this structure. Out of 23 patients with multi-infarct dementia there were 17 with focal uptake deficits at various sites, while six displayed an Alzheimer pattern. In Korsakoff's syndrome (n = 11), Down's syndrome (n = 1), Fahr's syndrome (n = 2), senile chorea (n = 1) and HIV encephalopathy (n = 1) no typical distribution patterns were noted. Single photon emission computed tomography can make a contribution to the diagnosis and classification of primary degenerative dementias and can be used to differentiate them from other forms of dementia. PMID- 2530080 TI - Regulated splicing in early development and stage-specific U snRNPs. PMID- 2530081 TI - [The development of an original drug--a shining example for the decade]. PMID- 2530082 TI - [Corticosteroid allergy]. PMID- 2530083 TI - [Study of the effect of analgeton on the release of beta-endorphin and its effect on chronic hyperalgesia]. AB - The effect of the combined preparation analgeton and its components--analgin (metamizol, noramidopyrindimethansulfonate) and aminton (2-amino-4-methyl pyridinphosphate) was studied on the release of beta-endorphin and its influence on chronic hyperalgesia. Experiments were carried out in vivo and in vitro on white rats and it was established that analgin, aminton and analgeton stimulated the release of beta-endorphin, affecting various regulatory levels. Analgeton in contrast to analgin showed longer analgetic effect in animals with chronic hyperalgesia (adjuvant arthritis of white rats). Possibilities for pharmacological control of chronic pain by influencing the levels of endogenous opioids are discussed. PMID- 2530085 TI - Biochemical properties of conjugates of urokinase-type plasminogen activator with a monoclonal antibody specific for cross-linked fibrin. AB - Equimolar mixtures of recombinant single chain urokinase-type plasminogen activator (rscu-PA) and a murine monoclonal antibody (MA-15C5) directed against fragment-D dimer of human cross-linked fibrin were conjugated, using the cross linking agent N-succinimidyl 3-(2-pyridyldithio)propionate (PySSProSu). The conjugate (rscu-PA/MA-15C5), purified by immunoadsorption on a urokinase antibody and affinity chromatography on fibrin fragment-D dimer with a yield of 42 +/- 15% (mean +/- SD, n = 3), contained an average of 1.2 +/- 0.3 IgG molecules/rscu-PA molecule. On non-reduced SDS/PAGE it migrated as a main band with apparent Mr of 200,000. Specific amidolytic activities expressed/mass of u-PA were less than 250 IU/mg for rscu-PA/MA-15C5 and rscu-PA, 140,000 +/- 13,000 IU/mg and 100,000 +/- 17,000 IU/mg for their plasmin-generated two chain derivatives rtcu-PA/MA-15C5 and rtcu-PA respectively. Specific activities on fibrin plates were 100,000 +/- 24,000 IU/mg and 130,000 +/- 49,000 IU/mg for rscu-PA/MA-15C5 and rtcu-PA/MA-15C5 respectively, as compared to 180,000 +/- 15,000 IU/mg for both rscu-PA and rtcu PA. Activation of plasminogen with rscu-PA/MA-15C5 (Km = 0.37 +/- 0.16 microM, k2 = 0.0063 +/- 0.0030 s-1 or rtcu-PA/MA-15C5 (Km = 19 +/- 3.0 microM, k2 = 2.0 +/- 0.10 s-1) in purified systems followed Michaelis-Menten kinetics with Km and k2 values comparable to those of rscu-PA and rtcu-PA. In an in vitro system composed of a 125I-fibrin-labeled whole human plasma clot immersed in citrated human plasma, dose- and time-dependent lysis was obtained; 50% lysis in 2 h required 1.4 microgram/ml of rscu-PA or 0.33 microgram/ml of rtcu-PA, but only 0.22 microgram u-PA/ml of rscu-PA/MA-15C5 or 0.15 microgram u-PA/ml of rtcu-PA/MA 15C5. Addition of purified fragment-D dimer reversed the increased fibrinolytic potency of rscu-PA/MA-15C5 in a concentration-dependent way (50% inhibition at 7.2 micrograms fragment-D dimer/ml). Thus, conjugation of u-PA moieties with the fibrin-specific antibody MA-15C5 targets the plasminogen activator to the clot, resulting in a significant increase of their fibrinolytic potencies as compared to their unconjugated counterparts: 6.4-fold for rscu-PA and 2.2-fold for rtcu PA. PMID- 2530084 TI - Electrophoretic studies of antimitochondrial antibodies: identification of mitochondrial antigens specific to primary biliary cirrhosis. AB - Mitochondrial inner membrane proteins extracted from beef heart tissue were examined for reactivity to antimitochondrial antibody (AMA) present in sera of patients with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) by an immunoblotting technique. Four proteins, which reacted with AMA, had molecular masses of 70 kDa, 50 kDa, 47 kDa and 40 kDa, as defined by their relative mobility (Rf) in sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. All sera of 114 PBC patients were positive with at least one and as many as four of the mitochondrial proteins. The major antigenic proteins of mitochondrial inner membrane to which AMA reacts were the 70 kDa and 47 kDa proteins. All PBC sera containing antibodies to the 50 kDa and/or 40 kDa proteins reacted with 70 kDa as well. The isolation of antigen reacting with AMA of PBC is important to warrant further study of AMA and the cause of the disease. The isolation of responsible antigens had been difficult because the four antigens were insoluble. However, the antigen newly found by us, the 36 kDa fragment, obtained by partial trypsin digestion, is soluble. Using several procedures, the antigenic protein target of AMA was purified from mitochondria for the first time. We determined the N-terminal sequence of the soluble 36 kDa fragment, 25 residues in length. Until now the N-terminal sequence of the 36 kDa protein has not shown significant homology with any known protein. The present results of antigen purification would contribute to the elucidation of the epitopes of AMA antigen. PMID- 2530086 TI - Catabolic pathway of oligosaccharide-diphospho-dolichol. Subcellular sites of the degradation of the oligomannoside moiety. AB - The degradation of oligosaccharide-diphospho-dolichol leads to the release of oligosaccharide material ranging from (Glc)3(Man)9(GlcNAc)2-P to (Man)3 species and further smaller species. The subcellular location of the glucosidases and mannosidases involved in this catabolic process has been investigated on the basis of their differential sensitivity towards specific inhibitors (castanospermine, deoxymannojirimycin and swainsonine). The results indicate that the first steps of degradation down to the (Man)6 species occurs in the rough endoplasmic reticulum. This result is supported by the fact that the (Man)6 species is the end product when lipid-intermediate-derived glucosylated oligosaccharides are incubated with purified rough endoplasmic reticulum membranes. Swainsonine and lysosomotropic agents (chloroquine and ammonium chloride) do not affect the degradation process, thus indicating that neither Golgi apparatus nor lysosomes are involved in this catabolism. The observation of the same degradation pattern of the released oligosaccharide material in mannosidosis fibroblasts, lacking lysosomal mannosidases, confirms these results. Finally, the subcellular distribution of the released oligosaccharide material indicates that the oligomannosides larger than (Man)6 species are sequestered in the particulate fraction whereas, in contrast, oligomannosides smaller than (Man)6 species are found predominantly in the cytosol. Taken altogether, the experiments demonstrate that the first steps of the degradation of oligosaccharide-diphospho-dolichol occurs in the rough endoplasmic reticulum producing oligomannosides of the (Man)6 species which are then translocated to the cytoplasm to be further degraded. PMID- 2530087 TI - Slow/cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase and phospholamban mRNAs are expressed in chronically stimulated rabbit fast-twitch muscle. AB - Fast-twitch extensor digitorum longus muscles of the rabbit were subjected to chronic low-frequency stimulation during different time periods. Changes in the relative amounts of mRNAs encoding fast and slow/cardiac Ca2+-ATPase isoforms were assessed through the use of an RNase-protection assay. Stimulation-induced increases in slow cardiac Ca2+-ATPase and phospholamban mRNAs were quantified by mRNA hybridization. Prolonged stimulation resulted in an exchange of the fast with the slow/cardiac Ca2+-ATPase isoform mRNAs. The exchange was complete after 72 d of stimulation as compared with normal slow-twitch soleus muscle. The tissue content of phospholamban mRNA reached levels similar to that found in normal slow twitch soleus muscle by the same time. The conversion of the sarcoplasmic reticulum coincided with the fast-to-slow troponin C isoform transition, previously investigated in the same muscles. PMID- 2530088 TI - Vascular anticoagulant beta: a novel human Ca2+/phospholipid binding protein that inhibits coagulation and phospholipase A2 activity. Its molecular cloning, expression and comparison with VAC-alpha. AB - A cDNA was cloned coding for a new member of the human Ca2+-modulated phospholipid-binding protein family termed annexins. Due to its 56% identity to the human vascular anticoagulant (VAC) the new protein is named VAC-beta, renaming the previous VAC as VAC-alpha. Northern analysis detects one hybridizing mRNA species of 2.2 kb in human placenta. Genomic Southern blot analysis shows a VAC-beta gene of comparable complexity to the VAC-alpha gene. The cDNA was expressed in Escherichia coli and the recombinant protein purified to homogeneity. Antiserum raised against VAC-beta weakly cross-reacts with VAC alpha. The properties of VAC-beta as an anticoagulant and as an inhibitor of phospholipase A2 activity were analyzed and compared to those of VAC-alpha. PMID- 2530089 TI - Elevated atrial natriuretic peptide level in giant right atrium complicating Marfan's syndrome. AB - We report a rare case of giant right atrial dilatation in a patient with Marfan's syndrome complicated by severe tricuspid regurgitation. Interestingly, the right atrial pressure was normal, but the atrial natriuretic peptide level was markedly elevated. We suggest that the underlying connective tissue abnormality had allowed extensive atrial distension which by causing an increased intramural tension according to Laplace's law stimulated atrial natriuretic peptide secretion. PMID- 2530090 TI - Right ventricular dysplasia: angiographic study. AB - At the moment, the most reliable method for diagnosing right ventricular dysplasia is considered to be angiography. Morphological alterations such as the presence of akinetic/dyskinetic areas, aneurysmatic dilatations and deep anteroapical fissuring, not necessarily associated with an increase in ventricular volume, are understood to be angiographic criteria indicating dysplasia. To verify their diagnostic value, these abnormalities have been evaluated in: (1) 33 patients suspected of having dysplasia because of PVBs with LBBB morphology and with 'borderline' involvement of the right ventricle or without instrumental evidence of cardiac disease (Group A); (2) 16 subjects with no arrhythmia and normal left ventricular angiography, coronary and bioptic findings (Group B); (3) 36 patients with a clinical, angiographic and bioptic diagnosis of dilated idiopathic cardiomyopathy (Group C). In 48.5% of the patients in Group A, angiography showed localized akinesia/dyskinesia (12 patients), small conical outpouchings persisting during systole (10 patients) and apical deep fissuring (two patients). In 81% of these patients, endomyocardial biopsy showed the presence of fibrous and/or adipose tissue in at least 20% of the examined sample. Angiographic abnormalities suggesting dysplasia were found in none of the normal subjects and only in two of the 36 patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (5.5%). PMID- 2530091 TI - Dynamic renal scanning using 99mTc-MAG-3 in man. AB - 99mTc-labelled mercapto-acetyltriglycine (MAG-3) has recently been proposed as an ortho-iodohippurate (OIH) substitute for dynamic renal imaging. Experience with MAG-3 is, however, still limited and its biokinetics are not completely known. Moreover, most of the published studies have used HPLC purified MAG-3 which is inpractical for routine clinical work. In this study a commercially available kit of MAG-3 which does not require high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) is used in 10 normal subjects and 15 patients with renal disease. The results obtained lead to the following conclusions: a. MAG-3 provided in kit form is suitable for renal imaging and semiquantitative analysis in routine clinical settings. b. There are significant differences between renal handling of MAG-3 and OIH, but the dynamic studies obtained with MAG-3 can be interpreted with the same criteria used for OIH studies. c. More information on MAG-3 kinetics is needed before this new radiopharmaceutical can be considered as an OIH substitute for truly quantitative studies such as effective renal plasma flow determinations. PMID- 2530092 TI - Naloxone inhibits the facilitatory effects of 8-OH-DPAT on male rat sexual behaviour. PMID- 2530093 TI - The effects of torbafylline on blood flow, pO2 and function of rat ischaemic skeletal muscle. AB - Blood flow at rest and during contractions (measured with labelled microspheres), red cell flux (assessed by laser-Doppler flowmetry), surface pO2, lactate accumulation and release, the development of fatigue during acute muscle contractions, and performance in chronic experiments (running wheel) were estimated in rat hind limb muscles during unilateral acute occlusion or chronic ligation of the femoral artery. The effects of torbafylline (7-ethoxymethyl-1-(5 hydroxy-5-methylhexyl)3-methylxanthine) on the above-mentioned parameters were studied after acute i.v. infusion or chronic oral gavage. Torbafylline significantly ameliorated the decreased skeletal muscle blood flow, red cell flux and surface pO2 after acute occlusion of the femoral artery, with more pronounced effects on the microcirculatory parameters, the laser-Doppler flux and pO2. Chronic ligation of the femoral artery and consequent stimulation for 45 min induced increased fatigue (fatigue index in control muscles: 70%, in ligated muscles: 78%). Three weeks oral treatment with torbafylline (25 mg/kg per day) decreased fatigue to 68%. The blood flow in ligated muscles increased to a much smaller extent than in control muscles, and this smaller increase was attenuated by torbafylline. A chronic decrease in the blood supply resulted in a significant shortening of the running time. This decrease in running time was reversed by chronic treatment with torbafylline (25 mg/kg p.o. 2 times-day for 2 weeks). This improved performance may be explained by a decreased accumulation of lactate in muscles with a limited blood supply due to an effect of torbafylline to increase the release of lactate from ischaemic muscles. PMID- 2530095 TI - Effects of GBR 12909, a selective dopamine uptake inhibitor, on motor activity and operant behavior in the rat. AB - GBR 12909, an aryl 1,4-dialkylpiperazine derivative, is a potent and selective inhibitor of the presynaptic dopamine uptake complex. The behavioral effects of this compound were studied in rats using several different paradigms. GBR 12909 (1, 10, 20 mg/kg i.p.) elicited a dose-dependent, long-lasting behavioral activation characterized by locomotion, rearing, sniffing and stereotypies at the highest dose. A second experiment investigated the consequences of subchronic treatment (one injection every 2 days for 14 days) with a high dose (20 mg/kg) of GBR 12909. Evidence was obtained for sensitization to GBR 12909, indicated by progressively more intense stereotypy induced by the high dose of GBR 12909, and also by an enhanced locomotor response to subthreshold doses of the drug, which lasted up to 7 weeks following the end of subchronic treatment. In a test of fixed-interval responding for food reward, GBR 12909 strongly enhanced lever pressing and lowered quarter-life. Low rates of responding were affected more than high rates. GBR 12909 also potentiated responding for a conditioned reinforcer (a stimulus which had previously been paired with food), suggesting that the rewarding impact of the stimulus was increased. It is concluded that the behavioral profile of GBR 12909 is similar to other dopamine-enhancing psychostimulants, and the sensitization may involve long-term changes in the dopamine uptake site. PMID- 2530094 TI - The dopamine inhibitor GBR 12909: selectivity and molecular mechanism of action. AB - The neurochemical profile of GBR 12909 (1-(2-bis(4-fluorphenyl)-methoxy)-ethyl)-4 (3-phenyl-propyl)pipera zine) was investigated. GBR 12909 was a potent and selective inhibitor of synaptosomal dopamine uptake (KI = 1 nM), with a 20-fold lower affinity for the histamine H1-receptor and a more than 100-fold affinity for the noradrenaline and 5-HT uptake carriers, the dopamine D-1, D-2, 5-HT2, 5 HT1A and alpha 1-receptors and voltage-dependent sodium channels. GBR 12909 (3 microM) was without effect on muscarinic, alpha 2, beta 1 + 2, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and benzodiazepine receptors, and on choline and GABA uptake carriers. The selective dopamine uptake inhibitory profile of GBR 12909 was confirmed by ex vivo uptake experiments. GBR 12909 inhibited uptake in vitro in a competitive manner as did cocaine and methylphenidate. [3H]GBR 12935 binding was competitively inhibited by GBR 12909 as well as by dopamine, cocaine and methylphenidate. Off-rate analysis of the [3H]GBR 12935 binding excluded the presence of allosteric binding sites on the dopamine carrier complex. Instead, the data favored the notion that GBR 12909 inhibits dopamine uptake by binding to the dopamine binding site on the carrier protein itself, thereby blocking the carrier process. In conclusion, GBR 12909 is a highly selective inhibitor of dopamine uptake, both in vivo and in vitro. At the moment GBR 12909 is the only compound with this neurochemical profile. The selective effect of GBR 12909 on this neuronal system makes it an interesting experimental tool and a potential antidepressant agent. PMID- 2530096 TI - Effect of minaprine on cycloheximide-induced amnesia in mice. AB - The effects of minaprine on cycloheximide-induced amnesia were investigated in a step-down passive avoidance task in mice. Minaprine significantly improved cycloheximide-induced amnesia. This effect was inhibited by scopolamine, but was potentiated by physostigmine. The anti-amnesic effect of minaprine on the cycloheximide-induced memory impairment was also antagonized by a serotonin (5 HT) releaser, p-chloroamphetamine, and by a 5-HT precursor, 5-hydroxytryptophan, whereas a 5-HT1A-selective agonist, 8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)tetralin, was inactive. The memory-improving effect of minaprine on cycloheximide-induced amnesia was potentiated by a selective 5-HT2 antagonist, ritanserin. These results suggest that the beneficial effect of minaprine on cycloheximide-induced amnesia may be related not only to cholinergic but also serotonergic neuronal systems (5-HT2 receptors). PMID- 2530097 TI - Effects of acute GR38032F (odansetron), a 5-HT3 receptor antagonist, on dopamine and serotonin metabolism in mesolimbic and nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons. AB - The acute administration of GR38032F, a selective 5-HT3 receptor antagonist, did not change the concentrations of dopamine (DA) or 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) or their deaminated metabolites in nucleus caudatus, nucleus accumbens or substantia nigra. Pretreatment with GR38032F failed to modify the haloperidol-induced activation of DA turnover. It is concluded that the blockade of central 5-HT3 receptors by GR38032F under these experimental conditions does not result in alternations in metabolism of DA or 5-HT in major ascending dopaminergic areas. PMID- 2530099 TI - Heparin induces changes in the synthesis of porcine aortic endothelial cell heparan sulfate proteoglycans. AB - Heparin is known to bind to cultured endothelial cells. This report documents that addition of heparin to endothelial cells results in an alteration of the heparan sulfate proteoglycan synthetic pattern. Specifically, the addition of saturating amounts of heparin to confluent cultures of porcine aortic endothelial cells results in an increase in the amount of radiolabeled heparan sulfate proteoglycan secreted into the growth medium. The increase is apparent as early as 8 h after heparin administration. Although there is often a decrease in the amount of cell surface heparan sulfate proteoglycan produced, it is not sufficient to account for the increase in the secreted form. Of the other glycosaminoglycans tested, only dextran sulfate and commercial heparan sulfate induce changes in heparan sulfate proteoglycan synthesis and secretion. Chondroitin sulfate glycosaminoglycans do not elicit this synthetic change. These data indicate that endothelial cells can alter the synthesis of heparan sulfate proteoglycans in response to extracellular signals including heparin and related glycosaminoglycans. PMID- 2530098 TI - Tumor promoter-dependent phosphorylation of a Triton X-100 extractable form of lipocortin I in T51B rat liver cells. AB - The phosphorylation of lipocortin (a substrate of EGF-receptor kinase, and a putative phospholipase A2 inhibitor) was examined in T51B cells. By using Western blot procedures and antisera specific to lipocortin I, we found that most immunoreactive lipocortin I was located in the cytosol (lipocortin(cvt] of cells extracted in Ca2+-free buffers These cells however had another pool of immunoreactive lipocortin I located in the particulate fraction that was Triton X 100 extractable (lipocortin(mem]. Increasing Ca2+ concentrations in the extraction buffer resulted in more lipocortin(mem) recovered. In vitro phosphorylation of endogenous proteins demonstrated that lipocortin I became phosphorylated in a Ca2+ and phosphatidylserine-dependent manner, suggesting an involvement of protein kinase C. Treatment of cells with 100 ng/ml 12-0 tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) but not with 4 alpha-phorbol 12,13 didecanoate (4 alpha-PDD) resulted in the in vitro phosphorylation of lipocortin(mem) by protein kinase C. TPA also increased the phosphorylation of lipocortin(mem) in [32P]phosphate-labeled cells. PMID- 2530100 TI - Oncoprotein p53 expression in normal, immortalized, and transformed mouse fibroblasts. AB - We have compared the rate of synthesis, half-life, and steady-state content of the oncoprotein p53 in logarithmically growing cultures of (a) primary embryo, (b) immortalized but untransformed, and (c) spontaneously transformed mouse fibroblasts. Steady-state p53 content derived from metabolic labeling and immunoprecipitation data revealed either no change or only a slight decrease (up to 1.5-fold depending on the antibody used) in transformed cells compared with immortal or primary cultures, p53 showed the same short half-life in all cell types. In contrast, immunocytochemical analysis of p53 content in intact cells demonstrated an increase in the proportion of cells with detectable nuclear p53 from approximately 4% in primary and immortal cultures to approximately 10% in fully transformed cells, together with a marked increase in the intensity of nuclear positivity. We suggest that transformation is associated with an increase in the cellular content of p53 in a subcellular pool which was not detectable in detergent for immunoprecipitation. In addition, immunocytochemical analysis demonstrated a marked heterogeneity in p53 content in all cell types which was not related to clonal variation, cell cycle phase, or growth state. These data challenge previous suggestion regarding the role of p53 in growth control. PMID- 2530101 TI - Kinetic and morphological evidence for endocytosis of mammalian cell integrin receptors by using an anti-fibronectin receptor beta subunit monoclonal antibody. AB - Monoclonal antibody (mAb) 7E2.2, which recognizes the beta subunit of the hamster fibronectin receptor (FnR) (Brown, P.J., and Juliano, R. L. (1988) Exp. Cell Res. 177. 303), was used to examine the distribution of and to quantify the internalization of the FnR and possibly related integrins on adherent fibroblasts. Purified 7E2.2 IgG was iodinated and used in binding and internalization studies. Binding to Chinese hamster ovary cells was saturable with a Km of 0.3 nM and an estimated total number of cell surface beta subunits at 2 x 10(5) per cell. The FnR colocalized with fibronectin at cell adhesion contact sites and also was distributed evenly over the dorsal cell surface as discrete clusters. By using a direct immunocolloidal gold approach, the FnR was not associated with coated pits at 4 degrees C until internalization followed warming of the labeled cells to 37 degrees C. A proportion of the FnRs were endocytosed with a half-time of 6.5 min and, consistent with clathrin-mediated uptake, this was sensitive to hypertonic conditions. Receptor-immunocomplexes rapidly became localized within coated pits, small diameter tubules, and peripheral endosomes but the majority remained at the cell surface. At subsaturating concentrations of bound 7E2.2, approximately one-fourth of the total cell receptor population resided intracellularly at any one moment following steady-state; however, appreciable degradation of the iodinated mAb was not detected following accumulation for 4 h at 37 degrees C. These data showed that at least a portion of the FnR are endocytosed via a receptor-mediated pathway and suggested that these receptors do not immediately enter a degradative compartment. PMID- 2530102 TI - Analysis of mammalian dynein using antibodies against A polypeptides of sea urchin sperm flagellar dynein. AB - Two different affinity-purified polyclonal antibodies were prepared against A polypeptides of dynein 1 extracted from sea urchin sperm. These antibodies, named AD1 and AD2, reacted exclusively with the alpha and beta heavy chains of dynein 1. Using these antibodies, we analyzed their cross-reactivity with dynein of mammalian cells. Immunohistochemically, both AD1 and AD2 stained dynein-related structures such as cilia of rabbit tracheal epithelia and flagella of rat spermatozoa. Immunoblots of the proteins extracted from mammalian cilia and flagella revealed the presence of A polypeptide-like proteins which cross-reacted with AD1 and AD2. Immunoblot analysis showed that the cross-reactive proteins were localized to the 370-kDa band of rabbit cilia and the 390- and 350-kDa bands of rat sperms. The reaction patterns showed that there were some differences between the two antibodies. On ciliary protein immunoblots, AD1 recognized about half of the broad band region which reacted with AD2, and AD1 also recognized only the 350-kDa band of the flagella extract, suggesting that the antibody reveals only a beta-like polypeptide. Immunoprecipitation studies using the ciliary proteins and AD2 confirmed that the immunoreactive protein had ATPase activity. Given these results, we have characterized mammalian dyneins previously reported by other laboratories. PMID- 2530103 TI - Identification of La ribonucleoproteins as a component of interchromatin granules. AB - Monoclonal antibodies raised against the La antigen were used to localize by preembedding immunoelectron microscopy, snRNPs containing this protein. The results demonstrate that La RNPs are localized in clusters of interchromatin granules, both in Triton X-100-extracted and DNase-digested nuclei. DNase digested salt-extracted nuclei contained, in addition, labeled structures identified as perichromatin granules and fibers. A close association of labeled granules with the nucleoli was also observed. Digestion of nuclei with DNase yielded residual scaffolds of intermediate filaments and nuclear lamina devoid of interchromatin granules and La immunostaining. Release of the La antigen was tested in the presence of ATP and cytochalasin B. Only cytochalasin was effective suggesting a role for nuclear actin in anchorage of snRNPs. PMID- 2530104 TI - Intradermal hepatitis B immunization with yeast-derived vaccine: serological response by sex and age. AB - The efficacy and acceptability of yeast-derived recombinant hepatitis B vaccine given by the intradermal route was investigated in 221 health care volunteers. Two hundred and sixteen received a full course of three doses of vaccine. Only one subject was withdrawn because of a significant adverse reaction (psoriasis). The vaccine stimulated an antibody response in 81%. The response to the vaccine was better in women than in men (87% compared with 71%, p = 0.007) and in women below the age of 40 years compared with older women (94% compared with 76%, p = 0.01). For men the response showed a sequential decline with age for each decade (90% responders from age 29 or less, 72% aged 30-39 and 65% aged 40 or more, p = 0.04). Retrospective enquiry showed that over 90% had found the intradermal route acceptable and 59% would prefer vaccine by the intradermal route in preference to intramuscular notwithstanding local reactions. Although the seroconversion rate was of a high order in younger women the antibody titres were not high with only 9 of 215 recipients developing titres greater than 1000 mIU/ml, a level which could be expected to ensure prolonged immunity. A fourth intradermal dose of vaccine given to 60 volunteers who had shown a low response (less than 38 mIU/ml) or no serological response to a three-dose course stimulated a good booster effect (to 150-600 mIU/ml) in only 5 (8%). PMID- 2530105 TI - Toxic effects of methylmercury on spermatozoa in vitro. AB - In an in vitro investigation, methylmercury (MeHg) reduced the motility of rat spermatozoa probably by the inhibition of succinate dehydrogenase and ATPase activities. Concomitant morphological changes observed in the spermatozoa were coiled tails and kinks in midpiece and tail regions. PMID- 2530107 TI - [Study of the immunotropic properties of theophylline in lymphocyte culture]. AB - The effect of theophylline on the activation of suppressor cells by histamine was studied in the experiments with mononuclear cells of blood of patients with bronchial asthma and healthy donors. Theophylline (1-5 micrograms/ml) was shown to be able of activating suppressed function of cells of the patients. Incubation of mononuclear cells of the healthy donors with theophylline did not change the process of suppressor formation in vitro. PMID- 2530106 TI - Female sterilizations in the United States, 1987. AB - A study by the Association for Voluntary Surgical Contraception and the Centers for Disease Control estimated that 640,000 tubal sterilizations were performed in the United States during 1987. The majority of these were inpatient procedures (66 percent) performed in civilian or military hospitals. Hospitals were also the site for the largest share of the 215,000 outpatient procedures. Overall, 33 percent of sterilizations were laparoscopies: 10 percent of the inpatient sterilizations and 79 percent of outpatient procedures. The region with the largest number of sterilizations was the South, which also had the smallest proportion done on an outpatient basis. PMID- 2530108 TI - Simple and rapid purification of F1-ATPase from mitochondria. AB - A simple, rapid method for isolation of F1-ATPase from bovine heart mitochondria using the cation exchange resin Dynospheres PD-201-SCX was developed. The method is based on the fact that hydrophobic membrane proteins are adsorbed efficiently on this resin, whereas hydrophilic proteins, such as F1-ATPase, are not. By this method F1-ATPase of high purity and enzyme activity can be obtained from mitochondria in about 2 h. PMID- 2530109 TI - Mechanism of the ATP-dependent phosphatidylserine synthesis in liver subcellular fractions. AB - It has been shown that the ATP-dependent incorporation of [14C]serine into phosphatidylserine in rat liver mitochondrial and microsomal fractions is prevented by EGTA. On the other hand, at low (microM) Ca2+ concentrations, serine incorporation is strongly stimulated by ATP and Mg2+. This stimulatory effect is reduced by calcium ionophore A23187. It is therefore suggested that the ATP dependent process is that of serine base-exchange reaction, stimulated by endogenous Ca2+ accumulated inside the microsomal vesicles by Ca2+,Mg2+-ATPase. The mitochondrial activity can be accounted for by contamination by the endoplasmic reticulum. PMID- 2530110 TI - Reversible modulation of the mitochondrial ATP synthase with energy demand in cultured rat cardiomyocytes. AB - The ATP synthase capacity of rat heart myocytes can be measured in sonicates of cultured cardiomyocytes. In these cells, transitions in ATP synthase capacity occur on changing to the anoxic or uncoupled state (drop in ATP synthase capacity of over 40%) or on electrically stimulating the cells to contract (rise of 70%). These changes occur rapidly (half time less than 1 min) and are completely reversed on returning to the original conditions. It is proposed that mitochondria in vivo are directly regulated at the level of the ATP synthase. The naturally occurring inhibitor protein from mitochondria may be responsible for this regulation. PMID- 2530111 TI - Identification of a specific receptor for interleukin-1 on rat bone marrow cells. AB - The interleukin-1 (IL-1) receptor on rat bone marrow cells was investigated using 125I-labeled IL-1 alpha and -1 beta. These radiolabeled ligands bound to the rat bone marrow cells in a specific and saturable manner with Kd values of 0.36 +/- 0.072 nM and 1.9 +/- 0.27 nM, respectively. In a competitive binding experiment, IL-1 alpha and -1 beta inhibited the binding of 125I-IL-1 alpha with Ki values of 0.35 +/- 0.041 nM and 2.9 +/- 1.0 nM. The binding of 125I-IL-1 beta was inhibited by IL-1 alpha and -1 beta with Ki values of 0.27 +/- 0.020 nM and 0.74 +/- 0.12 nM. In cross-linking experiments, 125I-IL-1 alpha was covalently incorporated into two proteins of 163 kDa and 63 kDa. These results suggested the presence of two binding proteins for IL-1 on the rat bone marrow cells. PMID- 2530112 TI - Balloon angioplasty combined with vascular surgery. AB - Seventy-nine intra-operative balloon angioplasties were performed in 72 patients undergoing a vascular reconstructive procedure over a 7-year-period (1981 through December 1987). The primary purpose of balloon angioplasty was either to increase inflow (26 procedures) or outflow (53 procedures) in association with a planned vascular operation and to avoid more extensive operative procedures in high risk patients. Peroperative balloon angioplasty involved atherosclerotic stenotic lesions in 26 iliac, 37 femoro-popliteal and 10 crural arteries. In 6 cases distal graft anastomotic stenoses were dilated. Follow-up ranged from 2 to 78 months (mean 32.4 months). The overall initial success rate was 84.8% and five procedure related complications were seen. One iliac restenosis with distal thrombosis, two superficial femoral artery dissections, one tibial artery thrombosis necessitating below knee amputation and one distal popliteal embolus after superficial femoral artery dilatation. There were no postoperative deaths. Fifty-one patients remained asymptomatic during follow-up. One iliac, eight femoro-popliteal and two tibial arteries restenosed with or without occlusion and thrombosis. The 3-year cumulative patency rate for the iliac and femoro-popliteal angioplasties is 80.2%. Intra-operative balloon angioplasty broadens the surgical therapeutic armamentarium available to correct multiple symptomatic arterial lesions. In addition this technique offers several advantages over a two stage procedure. PMID- 2530114 TI - [The activities of a paramedical worker council]. PMID- 2530113 TI - Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of the distal abdominal aorta. AB - Percutaneous Transluminal Angioplasty (PTA) has become widely practised and is a significant advance in the treatment of arterial disease. Its use in the treatment of atheromatous abdominal aortic stenoses in thirteen patients is described. Technical success was achieved in all with no complications. In a follow-up period from 7 to 70 months all patients have benefitted and 85% remain symptom free. PMID- 2530115 TI - Comparison between 1-hour and 24-hour follow-up radiographs in hysterosalpingography using oil based contrast media. AB - A comparison was made between oil-contrast hysterosalpingogram (HSG) with 1-hour follow-up radiograph and the traditional 24-hour follow-up radiograph with respect to detection of tubal patency and pelvic adhesive disease. The results on either modality were assessed by subsequent laparoscopy. The 1-hour HSG was comparable to the 24-hour HSG in defining tubal patency. Even though it was inferior to the 24-hour HSG with respect to identifying pelvic adhesions, it may serve as an adequate substitute to the above since the sensitivity of the HSG in identifying adhesions is low and has little influence on the clinical decision process in the evaluation of infertility. PMID- 2530117 TI - Complications of laparoscopic ovarian cauterization. PMID- 2530116 TI - Effect of treatment with gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogues on pregnancy outcome in the baboon. AB - The effect of a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist, Zoladex (Imperial Chemical Industries, PLC, London, England), and an antagonist, Organon 30276 (Organon, Oss, Holland), on the outcome of pregnancies when administered just after implantation was examined. The antagonist, Organon 30276, was administered continuously from days 14 through 21, and the agonist, Zoladex, was injected as long-acting pellets on day 14 after conception to pregnant baboons. Maternal baboon chorionic gonadotropin and progesterone levels and sonographic measurement were made before, during, and after treatment and throughout pregnancy of control and treated animals. Two pregnant animals were treated with 3.6 mg of Zoladex; one aborted and one had a stillbirth. Another four pregnant baboons were treated with 7.2 mg of Zoladex; two aborted, one had a premature with a low-birthweight infant, and one had a normal liveborn. Organon 30276, at 50 mg, was administered to three pregnant baboons and resulted in one stillbirth, one neonatal death, and one normal liveborn. The two pregnant baboons treated with 100 mg Organon 30276 both aborted. Therefore, treatment with these GnRH analogues in very early baboon pregnancy could adversely affect the outcome of pregnancy. Thus attention should be paid to the possible presence of early pregnancy at the time of GnRH analogue therapy, which might adversely affect the outcome of the pregnancy. PMID- 2530118 TI - [The ratio of the contents of beta-endorphin, adrenaline and noradrenaline in the hypothalamus of rats with an experimental stomach ulcer and during acupuncture]. AB - In white rats with experimental ulcer of the stomach, a single session of acupuncture (AP) considerably increased the contents of beta-endorphine (ED) and adrenaline (A) in the hypothalamus. Repeated AP sessions aided to a progressive decrease in the ED, A and noradrenaline (NA) levels. The AP did not change essentially the dynamics of ED, A and NA by itself. The ulcer pathology against the background of AP sessions is accompanied by a change in activity of hypothalamic systems of the ED, A and NA, and by a formation of a specific neurochemical profile changing in time. PMID- 2530120 TI - [The effect of maternal hyperglycemia on insulin secretion by monolayer-cultured B cells of neonatal rats--a perifusion study]. AB - To evaluate the effect of maternal hyperglycemia on insulin secretion by neonatal rat B cells, perifusion was conducted on monolayer cultures of rat neonates from normoglycemic (C) mothers or those made slightly (SH) and highly (HH) hyperglycemic by the injection of streptozotocin. In the C, SH and HH groups, B cells responded to 16.7 mM glucose, 10 mM leucine, 10 mM 2-ketoisocaproate and 10 mM arginine in a biphasic manner, although these nutrients provided stimuli so feeble that insulin secretion in the second phase was slightly raised above basal levels. However, quantitative relationships differed. Compared with the C group, B cells in the SH group showed a significant increase in the secretion of the second phase in response to glucose, 2-ketoisocaproate and arginine but not to leucine, whereas there was no difference in the secretion of the first phase between these two groups. In the HH group, a lower insulin secretion of the first and second phase was observed. These results are compatible with hyperglycemia hyperinsulinaemia theory concerning the function of B cells in neonates born to slightly hyperglycemic mothers and with a defect in insulin secretion by neonates from highly hyperglycemic females. PMID- 2530119 TI - [Vasopressin: the ontogeny of antidiuretic action at the cellular level]. AB - The data on the development of molecular mechanism of the antidiuretic effect of vasopressin and the molecular structure of the AVP receptor, cytosolic cAMP dependent protein-kinases and renal response to AVP, are discussed. The experiments were performed in normal rats and mice, nephrogenic diabetes insipidus mutants and rats treated with cortisol in early postnatal period. The development of the kidney sensitivity to AVP seems to be closely connected with the development of the molecular structure of the AVP receptor, age-related increase of the AVP-activated adenylate cyclase, and the maturation of cAMP dependent protein kinases. PMID- 2530121 TI - [The concentration of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) in plasma and atrial tissue of canines with acute heart failure induced by reversible aortic or mitral regurgitation]. AB - We have established an easily reversible acute heart failure model in beagle canines by reversible aortic or mitral regurgitation (AR or MR). To cause reversible AR, a basket catheter was inserted into the left ventricle from the apex and fixed at the aortic valve in 10 canines. To cause MR, a basket catheter was inserted into the left atrium via the pulmonary vein and fixed at the mitral valve in 10 canines. The regurgitation by AR or MR was caused by extending the tip basket wire, and the recovery from the regurgitation was immediately possible by closing it. Left atrial pressure (LAP), right atrial pressure (RAP) and pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) were increased significantly during AR or MR, and decreased to the normal level after the release of AR or MR. Using these reversible acute heart failure models, the effects of both advancing and restoring acute heart failure by the secretion of ANP were examined by observing the changes of ANP concentration and its molecular forms in the plasma and left atrial tissue in the same canine. Plasma ANP concentration showed a reversible change. In group analysis, plasma ANP concentration did not correlate with LAP or RAP, but in each canine it showed high correlations with LAP (r = 0.70 approximately 0.94, 0.82 +/- 0.07) and RAP (r = 0.60 approximately 0.93, 0.79 +/- 0.08), having a different slope in each regression line. The ANP concentration in the atrial tissue was decreased during AR or MR, but the low level was maintained after AR or MR. The main molecular form of ANP in the plasma was alpha-ANP and that in the tissue was gamma-ANP. In summary, the tissue storage of ANP was decreased because the ANP secretion caused by stimulation of acute heart failure exceeded its production. The ANP secretion was decreased by the subsequent elimination of heart failure, but the production was not stimulated rapidly, because the tissue content remained unchanged. PMID- 2530122 TI - Effects of glipizide on beta-endorphin concentration in the brain of genetically diabetic (db/db) mice. AB - Sulphonylurea drugs have been shown to augment glucose metabolism by both pancreatic and extrapancreatic actions. The regulation of glucose involves a modification of beta-endorphin secretions via central and peripheral mechanisms. beta-Endorphin participates in the regulation of feeding and is implicated both in obesity and diabetes mellitus. This study shows that glipizide could exert its pharmacological action in genetically diabetic (db/db) mice via beta-endorphin secretions by a central mechanism. PMID- 2530124 TI - The individual, the family and the community--co-operation is the future. PMID- 2530123 TI - The effects of multivitamins and minerals on children with Down syndrome. AB - The effects of high-dosage multivitamin and mineral supplements on 15 children with Down syndrome aged between 7.5 and 63 months were studied in a placebo controlled crossover trial. Active treatment was associated with decreased developmental progress, and various side-effects were reported by the parents. The only suggestions of benefit were parents' observations of improvement in general appearance and skin freshness. However, the parents were willing to continue using the treatment and to recommend it to other parents, despite the side-effects. PMID- 2530125 TI - [Anatomo-functional correlations of changes in electrocardiographic repolarization in aortic and mitral valve insufficiency. Comparison of indices based on QRS voltages]. AB - Electrocardiographic repolarization changes and voltage criteria for left ventricular hypertrophy were examined, in relation to hemodynamic, echocardiographic and angiographic data. This was done to evaluate their association with abnormalities in cardiac function and structure in 53 patients with chronic aortic regurgitation and 36 patients with chronic mitral regurgitation. No patient showed evidence of coronary artery disease. Of the patients with aortic regurgitation, the 27 patients with an abnormal repolarization pattern at ECG had worse NYHA functional class when compared to the 24 patients with normal repolarization (2.4 +/- 1 vs 1.6 +/- 0.9; p less than .01). They also had greater left ventricular dimensions (end-diastolic volume: 162 +/- 57 ml/m2 vs 109 +/- 15 ml/m2, p less than .01; end-systolic volume: 85 +/ 46 ml/m2 vs 44 +/- 31 ml/m2, p less than .01), lower left ventricular ejection fraction (.50 +/- .12 vs .63 +/- .14; p less than .01), greater left ventricular mass (170 +/- 56 gr/m2 vs 119 +/- 29 gr/m2; p less than .01) and higher end diastolic left ventricular pressure (21 +/- 11 mmHg vs 11 +/- 8 mmHg; p less than .01). QRS voltage was less closely related to cardiac function and structure and thus, did not modify the conclusions based on repolarization findings alone. Furthermore, repolarization patterns identified patient subgroups with high or low prevalences of previously described predictors of poor surgical outcome. The presence or absence of the "strain" pattern was not related to differences in cardiac structure and function, in patients with mitral regurgitation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530126 TI - [Pulsed Doppler evaluation of left ventricular filling in stable and borderline juvenile arterial hypertension]. AB - Left ventricular hypertrophy in hypertensive patients may be associated with changes in diastolic function. To examine whether or not any alteration in left ventricular function is also present in the early phases of hypertension, left ventricular filling was studied using the echo-Doppler method in 30 young mild hypertensive patients, 40 borderline untreated hypertensives and 30 age-matched normotensive controls. Left ventricular wall thickness, left ventricular mass (Devereux formula) and shortening fraction were measured using M-mode echocardiogram under 2D control. Trans-mitral flow was measured by pulsed-Doppler and the following parameters were derived: peak early (E) and atrial (A) diastolic flow rate, their ratio E/A, the integral of early (Ei) and atrial (Ai) diastolic flow rates and their ratio (Ei/Ai). Our data show that left ventricular mass is greater in mild hypertensive patients than in borderline and normal controls. No differences in left ventricular systolic function were found in the three groups whereas diastolic function changes were present in the hypertensive group: in particular the peak early/atrial flow rate ratio was significantly reduced compared with the other two groups. Therefore, it appears that changes in diastolic function may also be present even in the early phases of mild hypertension. PMID- 2530127 TI - [Atrial natriuretic factor in cardiogenic shock, in hypovolemic shock and in the bradycardia-hypotension syndrome following acute myocardial infarction]. AB - The aim of this paper was to study plasma atrial natriuretic factor, renin activity, aldosterone and antidiuretic hormone in low-output heart failure syndromes such as cardiogenic shock, hypovolemic shock and hypotension with bradycardia syndrome. A total of 30 patients were investigated: 10 with cardiogenic shock due to acute myocardial infarction of the anterior wall (systolic and diastolic blood pressure 56.0 +/- 3.7/40.5 +/- 2.0 mmHg; heart rate 119.7 +/- 1.2 beats/min; central venous pressure 16.2 +/- 0.6 cmH2O) (I group), 10 with hypovolemic shock induced by melena in peptic ulcer (systolic and diastolic blood pressure 74.5 +/- 1.5/57.5 +/- 1.7 mmHg; heart rate 111.0 +/- 1.4; central venous pressure 6.3 +/- 0.5 cmH2O) (II group), 10 with hypotension with bradycardia syndrome which occurred in patients during acute myocardial infarction of the inferior wall (systolic and diastolic blood pressure 71.9 +/- 2.0/58.0 +/- 2.6 mmHg; heart rate 52.0 +/- 2.2 beats/min; central venous pressure 4.6 +/- 0.4 cmH2O) (III group). Plasma atrial natriuretic factor values were measured using radioimmunoassay after chromatographic pre-extraction; plasma renin activity, aldosterone and antidiuretic hormone values were calculated using radioimmunoassay. Circulating atrial natriuretic factor was significantly (p less than 0.01) higher in patients with cardiogenic shock (102.4 +/- 7.4 pg/ml) than in healthy volunteers (8.4 +/- 0.3 pg/ml). In the former there was a positive correlation between atrial natriuretic factor and central venous pressure values. Atrial natriuretic factor and central venous pressure values in the IInd and IIIrd groups of patients were in the normal range.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530128 TI - [Cholecystectomy by celioscopy]. PMID- 2530129 TI - [Fertility and Turner mosaicism syndrome]. AB - Six patients with a Turner mosaicism are reported. All six women were investigated for sterility or infertility. Four of six patients had a total of nine pregnancies: six abortions, one stillbirth, two normal children. The literature contains reports of 17 pregnancies in 10 women with 45.X karyotype and 106 pregnancies in 48 women with mosaicism. Miscarriages, stillbirths and malformations were common. These women need special counselling and in case of a pregnancy amniocentesis is indicated. We discuss the pathogenesis of reduced fertility with Turner patients and explain the problems related to the cystogenetic diagnosis of the Turner-Mosaic Syndrome. PMID- 2530130 TI - Immunohistochemical localization of beta-endorphin-like material in the urodele and anuran amphibian tissues. AB - In the present study, we have localized for the first time beta-endorphin (beta EP)-like material in the adult and larval urodele and anuran tissues using immunohistochemical techniques. In the adult Notophthalmus viridescens and Ambystoma mexicanum, strong immunoreactivity to beta-EP antisera was observed in the region of the intermediate lobe, the latter fluorescing as a discrete body. The fluorescence was confined to the periphery of the cells, while the nuclei and the immediately surrounding cytoplasmic regions of the cells remained unstained. A few scattered cells in the anterior pituitary gland as well as the tracts in the posterior lobe also exhibited positive staining, although not as strong as the intermediate lobe. In the larval urodele, A. maculatum, beta-EP-like material was localized for the first time in the sensory ganglia and their emerging nerve fibers, in the Leydig cells of the skin, as well as in a few discrete cells scattered among stomach epithelial cells. In addition to the above, immunoreactivity to beta-EP antisera was observed in the cellular intermediate part of the neurointermediate lobe of the pituitary gland in young Xenopus laevis, the neural part of the lobe remaining nonreactive. PMID- 2530131 TI - Causes and consequences of variation in energy storage in Drosophila melanogaster. AB - Variation in energy storage pools has a proximate cause variation in rates of influx and efflux from the pools, and it may, as an ultimate consequence, result in variation in fitness. The possibility of this chain of causal links motivates attempts to quantify the genetic correlations among pool sizes, enzyme activities and fitness components. In this report, homogenates from 83 second chromosome replacement lines of Drosophila melanogaster were analyzed to determine the amounts of stored triacylglycerols and glycogen as well as the activities of 11 enzymes in relevant metabolic pathways. The viabilities and fecundities of these same lines were determined by a segregation test using the SM5 balancer chromosome. Analysis of covariance revealed significant differences among lines in quantities of stored triacylglycerols and glycogen, as well as in activities of the assayed enzymes. Significant broad-sense genetic correlations were detected for a number of enzyme pairs. Some of the traits showed a significant correlation with viability and fecundity, including lipid and glycogen storage. Multiple regression models that fitted fitness components to linear and quadratic functions of the biochemical traits yielded highly significant fits. The partial regression coefficients indicate the shape of the selection gradient, and instances of significant directional and stabilizing selection were detected. PMID- 2530132 TI - Distribution of Chi-stimulated recombinational exchanges and heteroduplex endpoints in phage lambda. AB - The recombination hotspot Chi, 5' G-C-T-G-G-T-G-G 3', stimulates the RecBCD recombination pathway of Escherichia coli. We have determined, with precision greater than previously reported, the distribution of Chi-stimulated exchanges around a Chi site in phage lambda. Crosses of lambda phages with single base-pair mutations surrounding a Chi site were conducted in and analyzed on mismatch correction-impaired hosts to preserve heteroduplex mismatches for analysis. Among phages recombinant for flanking markers, Chi stimulated exchanges most intensely in the intervals immediately adjacent to the Chi site, both to its right and to its left. Stimulation fell off abruptly to the right but gradually to the left (with respect to the orientation of the Chi sequence written above). We have also determined that Chi stimulated the formation of heteroduplex DNA, which frequently had one endpoint to the right of Chi and the other endpoint to the left. These data support a model of Chi-stimulated recombination in which RecBCD enzyme cuts DNA immediately to the right of Chi and unwinds DNA to the left of Chi; segments of unwound single-stranded DNA are sometimes, but not always, degraded before synapsis with homologous DNA. PMID- 2530133 TI - [Medico-genetic study of the residents of Krasnodar territory. Incidence of hemoglobinopathies]. AB - Data on distribution of various types of hemoglobinopathies in the Krasnodar region are presented. This region was unfavourable, due to malaria in the past. The results obtained allow to conclude that the territory needs more attention as a possible focus of beta-thalassemia in our country. PMID- 2530134 TI - [Medico-genetic study of the residents of the Kostroma province. XI. Diversity of hereditary pathology in Kostroma]. AB - The diversity of hereditary pathology in Kostroma was studied. An attempt was made to classify all isolated cases by genetic and clinical analysis. 57 nosological forms of autosomal dominants, 41 autosomal recessive and 14 X-linked recessive disorders were found. The analysis of marriage distances in the whole population and in the families of the probands was carried out. The spectra of hereditary pathology in Kostroma and Kostroma Province were compared. The sources of the load of hereditary pathology in Kostroma are discussed. PMID- 2530135 TI - The rex genes of bacteriophage lambda can inhibit cell function without phage superinfection. AB - The rexA and rexB genes of bacteriophage lambda are expressed from the prophage and cause the exclusion of many superinfecting mutant phages. We cloned the rexA and rexB genes into a multicopy plasmid so that they were overexpressed from the inducible tac promoter. No obvious phenotypes were associated with overexpressing both rexA and rexB or overexpressing rexA in the absence of rexB expression. However, induction of rexA in the presence of limiting rexB activity caused an immediate cessation of cell growth. All macromolecular synthesis abruptly ceased and amino acid transport was severely inhibited. Intracellular levels of adenosine 5'-triphosphate also dropped. These phenotypes are similar to those observed after phage superinfection, leading us to propose that at least some of the exclusion caused by the Rex proteins could be due to a change in their ratio following superinfection. PMID- 2530136 TI - Phasmids as effective and simple tools for construction and analysis of gene libraries. AB - Phasmid lambda pMYF131, a hybrid of phage lambda vectors and plasmid pUC19, was constructed. The phasmid and its derivatives were shown to be efficient vectors for construction and analysis of gene libraries in Escherichia coli cells. The lambda pMYF131 DNA molecule contains all the genes and regions essential for phage lytic development. The plasmid cannot be packaged either in the monomeric or the oligomeric form due to its specific length. Elongation of the DNA molecule by ligation with fragments of foreign DNA can make it packageable and this is easily detected by plaque formation. Hence, the procedures used to construct genomic libraries can be simplified by selection of only recombinant DNA molecules just at the time and on the basis of their packaging in vitro. The output of recombinant clones per vector molecule was several times higher for vector lambda pMYF131, compared to phage vector lambda L47.1AB, and attained 3 x 10(6) clones per micrograms DNA. Vector and recombinant phasmids can be obtained in large quantities in plasmid form. lambda pMYF131 contains nine unique restriction sites which allow the cloning of DNA fragments with blunt ends and of fragments with various types of cohesive ends, obtained by digestion with 14 prototype restriction enzymes. The maximal size of the cloned DNA fragments is approx. 20 kb for lambda pMYF131. Phasmid vectors were used to construct libraries of bovine, pig and quail genomes, and genomic libraries of 17 species of bacteria. Application of suitable methods allowed the identification 13 individual genes within these libraries. PMID- 2530137 TI - Cloning and analysis of structural and regulatory pectate lyase genes of Erwinia chrysanthemi ENA49. AB - Erwinia chrysanthemi ENA49 structural and regulatory ptl genes, coding for pectate lyase (Ptl) were cloned in Escherichia coli cells. Phage vector lambda L47.1 and phasmid vector lambda pMYF131 were used for constructing libraries of BamHI and EcoRI fragments, respectively, of Er. chrysanthemi chromosomal DNA. Among the 1,100 hybrid clones containing BamHI Er. chrysanthemi DNA fragments and 11,000 hybrid clones containing EcoRI fragments, six and 45 clones, respectively, were identified as having pectolytic activity. Two different structural genes, designated ptlA and ptlB, have been subcloned on multi-copy plasmids. Genes ptlA and ptlB are located side by side on the chromosome of Er. chrysanthemi and transcribe in the same direction. Each of the genes has its own promoter. Southern-blot hybridization analysis showed that the cloned ptl genes shared practically no homology and each of the genes was represented by a single copy on the Er. chrysanthemi chromosome. Other ptl genes capable of expression in E. coli cells were not found in the gene libraries. Negative regulation of the ptlA gene expression by a cloned gene called ptlR was shown. To screen the gene library for the ptlR gene, a specific genetic system was devised. The genes studied are located within an EcoRI chromosomal DNA fragment of 7.3 kb in the order: ptlA ptlB-ptlR. PMID- 2530138 TI - A novel cDNA/PCR strategy for efficient cloning of small amounts of undefined RNA. AB - In this report we present a strategy for generating a representative cDNA library from prohibitively low amounts of mRNA template. A defined DNA adapter, which carries an EcoRI site, is ligated to both ends of the products of a cDNA synthesis reaction. This allows low levels of cDNA to be amplified by a polymerase chain reaction. In studies with pg amounts of rabbit globin mRNA, the amplified cDNA product is shown to be full-length. Globin cDNA recombinants are positively identified in lambda gt10. The protocol should be widely applicable to mRNAs of low abundance, whose sequences have not been determined, and to limited samples from patients or animals. It may also be useful for generating representative libraries of low titer or variant viral sequences. PMID- 2530139 TI - [Endometriosis in light of laparoscopic examinations]. AB - Laparoscopic examination was made in complete general anaesthesia by intubation modified by the H. Frangeheim technique. 491 laparoscopy examinations were analysed with respect to the frequency of endometriosis in the women examined, age when it appears and the relationship between diagnosis and routine laparoscopy. The women examined were divided in two groups, the basis of the division was the frequency of primary indications for laparoscopy in clinical suspicion of endometriosis. Group I consisted of 347 laparoscopies made due to various general indications, among them endometriosis suspected in 12 cases (3.4%). In this group all cases of clinical suspecting endometriosis were laparoscopically confirmed, besides endometriosis was found in 39 patients. Group II consisted of 144 laparoscopies, where suspicion of endometriosis was in 81 patients (56.3%) with primary indication. In this group clinical suspicions were confirmed in 49 patients (60.5%), besides endometriosis was found in 5 other patients examined because of their indications for laparoscopy. In the whole material of 491 laparoscopies, endometriosis was found in 105 women (21.4%). Thus one may conclude that endometriosis is a frequent disease of female genital organs, it can appear at any age of sexual maturity (the highest frequency between 26 and 35 years of age), its diagnosing depends only on routine laparoscopy in case of clinical suspicions of the disease. PMID- 2530140 TI - [Spontaneous external biliary fistula]. AB - Spontaneous biliary cutaneous fistula is a rare complication of inflammatory perforation of the gallbladder. We describe a 70-year-old woman who developed a fistula between the gallbladder and the skin following drainage of an abdominal wall abscess. In such cases primary drainage of the abscess alone is advisable. Only after the active infection has subsided should definitive cholecystectomy and excision of the fistulous tract be carried out. PMID- 2530141 TI - [Effects of insulin on maltase and N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase (NAG) activities of serum and kidney in experimental diabetic rats]. AB - The activities of lysosomal maltase in the serum, urine and kidney were determined in rats with diabetes induced by streptozotocin (STZ, 75 mg/kg, i.p.) and compared with the changes in N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase (NAG) activity. Moreover, effects of insulin on maltase and NAG activities of the serum, urine and kidney in diabetic rats were studied. The following results were obtained: 1) The serum maltase activity within 24 hr after administration of STZ was influenced by insulin secretion. 2) Significant increases in blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels were observed from the 3rd week after a single administration of STZ. The serum insulin level significantly decreased at 3 weeks after treatment of STZ. In this time, maltase activity in the serum rapidly increased, while the enzyme activity in the kidney decreased considerably. On the other hand, the changes in NAG activities in the serum, urine and kidney after administering STZ were almost similar to those in maltase activities. 3) There were positive relationships between maltase and NAG activities in the serum and urine in diabetic rats, respectively. 4) When lente insulin (2U) was subcutaneously injected once daily for 20 days from 24 hr after administration of STZ, NAG activities in the serum and kidney approached to the control levels. However, maltase activities in the group treated with insulin were significantly higher in the serum and kidney than those in the control group. PMID- 2530142 TI - [Behavioral pharmacological properties of the novel antidepressant paroxetine, a selective 5-HT uptake inhibitor]. AB - The behavioral effects of paroxetine were investigated in mice and rats in comparison with imipramine and amitriptyline. 1) Locomotor activities were decreased by imipramine and amitriptyline but not by paroxetine in both animal species. 2) Paroxetine antagonized methamphetamine-induced hyperactivity in mice as did imipramine and amitriptyline. 3) Paroxetine showed a more potent antimuricidal effect in raphe-lesioned rats than imipramine and amitriptyline, and it also inhibited muricide in olfactory bulbectomized rats. 4) The immobility of rats in the forced swimming test was markedly decreased by imipramine and amitriptyline, but only slightly by paroxetine. 5) Like imipramine and amitriptyline, paroxetine potentiated the methamphetamine- or L-DOPA-induced stereotyped sniffing, and it inhibited oxotremorine-induced tremor. 6) Paroxetine antagonized reserpine-induced hypothermia, tetrabenazine-induced ptosis, and enhanced ether-induced anesthesia, all less potently than imipramine and amitriptyline. 7) The analgesic action of paroxetine was stronger than that of imipramine and amitriptyline. 8) Paroxetine did not antagonize maximal electroshock- or pentetrazol-induced convulsions and haloperidol- or THC-induced catalepsy in rats. In addition, paroxetine neither exerted muscle relaxation nor affected the shuttle-box type conditioned avoidance in rats. From these results, the behavioral effects of paroxetine, as compared with imipramine and amitriptyline, were characterized by its potent antimuricidal action in raphe lesioned rats and its weak effect in the forced swimming test and by its less potent muscle relaxant, anticonvulsant, anticataleptic and anesthesia potentiating actions. PMID- 2530143 TI - Effect of gamma-irradiation on F-2 and T-2 toxin production in corn and rice. AB - Fusarium graminearum and F. tricinctum were grown on moistened corn and rice. After inoculation the substrates were exposed to gamma-irradiation and growth rate together with mycotoxin production were measured. A delay in mycelium growth and an increase in F-2 and T-2 toxin production occurred after irradiation with 1 and 3 kGy. The maximum F-2 production was 10.7 mg/kg on rice at 3 kGy, whereas T 2 was 735 micrograms/kg on rice at 3 kGy. At 9 kGy neither growth nor toxin production could be detected in any inoculated corn and rice substrate. PMID- 2530144 TI - Chronic toxicity of nivalenol in female mice: a 2-year feeding study with Fusarium nivale Fn 2B-moulded rice. AB - Groups of 42 7-wk-old female C57BL/6CrSlc SPF mice were fed diets containing 0, 6, 12 and 30 ppm nivalenol (NIV) for 2 years. Body-weight gain was reduced in all treated groups of animals and feed efficiency was reduced, significantly so, in the high-dose group. The absolute weights of the liver in the 30-ppm group, and of the kidneys in the 12- and 30-ppm groups were significantly reduced, compared with those of the controls. When expressed relative to brain weight there was a reduction in the kidney weight of the 12-ppm NIV group only. Some leucopenia was seen in the treated mice, particularly in the 30-ppm group, although this was not statistically significant, and there were dose-dependent increases in the serum concentrations of alkaline phosphatase and non-esterified fatty acids. No tumours attributable to NIV were found in any of the experimental groups. Naturally occurring tumours, mostly lymphomas, were of similar incidence in all groups, but developed later and appeared to grow more slowly in the mice of the 30-ppm group than in those of other groups. The incidence of amyloidosis, particularly in the small intestine, was low in the two higher dose groups compared with that in the control group. The mortality rate of the 30-ppm NIV group was lower than that of the control group and this may be partly due to the lower tumour incidence in the earlier period and partly due to the lower incidence of amyloidosis. PMID- 2530145 TI - [Treatment of acne with a yeast preparation]. AB - In a randomized, controlled double-blind study involving 139 patients with various forms of acne, the effectiveness and tolerance of Saccharomyces cerevisiae Hansen CBS 5926 (Perenterol) was studied in comparison with a placebo over a maximum period of five months. The results of therapy were assessed by the physician as very good/good in 74.3% of the patients receiving the preparation, as compared with 21.7% in the placebo group. In more than 80% of the former patients, the condition was considered to be healed or considerably improved, while the corresponding figure for the placebo group was only 26%. Seasonal differences in the effect of treatment with Saccharomyces cerevisiae Hansen CBS 5926 were not observed. Side effects leading to a premature discontinuation of the test were seen neither in the test substance group nor in that receiving placebo. The therapeutic efficacy of Saccharomyces cerevisiae Hansen CBS 5926 makes this systemic form of therapy an alternative that is becoming more and more widely accepted by acne patients. PMID- 2530146 TI - [Graves' disease complicated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE): a case report]. AB - A 25 year old man had been subjected to subtotal thyroidectomy under the diagnosis of Graves' disease. About a year later the patient developed systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Reports on cases of Graves' disease complicated with SLE have barely been observed so far. Consequently, the authors reckoned, with reference to the other literatures on the subject, our case worth reporting. PMID- 2530147 TI - Augmentation of the natriuretic response to atrial natriuretic factor in cirrhosis. PMID- 2530148 TI - Diagnosis of T-cell lymphoma using beta F1, anti-T-cell receptor beta chain antibody. AB - The reactivity of a new monoclonal antibody to the T-cell beta chain antigen receptor (beta F1) with routinely processed paraffin sections from patients with T-cell lymphoma is described. Staining of tumour cells was seen in 36/47 cases of T-cell lymphoma. No staining was seen in any cases of B-cell lymphoma (0/21 cases), nine of which had previously been shown to react with other T-cell antibodies (MT1/UCHL1). We conclude that beta F1 is a specific marker for demonstrating a T-cell histogenesis of lymphoma and with advantages over other currently available antibodies reactive with paraffin sections. PMID- 2530149 TI - Electrophoretic and isoelectric focusing studies in Brazilian Indians: data on four systems. AB - Three-hundred ninety-nine individuals living in seven populations of two Brazilian Indian tribes (Macushi and Icana River Indians) were tested for the phosphoglucomutase 1 (PGM1), properdin factor B (BF), haptoglobin (HP), and alpha 1-antitrypsin (PI) systems. We observed significant internal heterogeneity in the two tribes for the PGM1 alleles and in the Macushi for the HP markers. Frequencies in three of the four systems (the exception being BF) also show clear differences in the Macushi and Icana River Indians. Compared with other ethnic groups, South American Indians generally present high frequencies of PGM1*1B, BF*S, HP*1S, and PI*M3. On the other hand, PGM1*1A, PI*M1, and PI*M2 are reduced, and HP*1F is absent or rare. This is the first report about HP subtypes among American Indians. PMID- 2530150 TI - Limb body wall malformation complex: an embryologic etiology? AB - Four human fetuses with the limb body wall malformation complex, also known as the amniotic band syndrome, were examined. Besides malformations of the body wall and the limb(s), anomalies of the internal organs were found in three fetuses, suggesting a disturbance of normal morphogenesis before the fifth week of development. When analyzing the observed data in relation to their etiology, no support was found for either the amniotic band or the vascular disruption theory. New insights into morphogenesis suggest that the limb body wall malformation complex results from a malfunction in the ectodermal placodes and that it can be considered to be an embryonic dysplasia. PMID- 2530151 TI - Discrimination of synthetic vowels by using tactile vocoder and a comparison to that of an eight-channel cochlear implant. AB - A vowel discrimination test using a tactual vocoder was administered and the results were compared to that of an eight-channel cochlear implant. Both the tactile vocoder and the cochlear implant divided the speech signals into 16 frequency components using band-pass filters and lateral inhibition circuits. In the tactile vocoder, these 16 components were converted into a vibration with 200 Hz frequency and applied to a 3 x 16 element vibrator array using bimorph piezoelectric elements. The vibratory patterns were sensed on the fingertip. In the cochlear implant, the 16 components were reduced to eight current stimulation signals, consisting of biphasic pulses with 200 Hz frequency, which were applied to an eight-channel electrode array implanted in the scala tympani. The electrode array passed through the round window into the scala tympani to a depth of 23 mm. These psychophysical experiments investigate the ability of human subjects to discriminate synthetic vowels as a function of the number of channels employed. The results suggested that an eight-channel and a 16-channel tactile vocoder provided essentially the same discrimination scores. However, the ability to discriminate synthetic vowels decreased rapidly when less than eight channels were employed. The ability of an eight-channel tactile vocoder is expected to be better than that of the eight-channel cochlear implant because it is supposed that vowel discrimination is degraded by a phenomenon known as "current spreading" in the case of cochlear stimulation. However, the comparison between the two devices was not done on the cochlear implant subject. PMID- 2530152 TI - CD4-Ia interactions can occur in the absence of T-cell receptor/antigen-Ia recognition. AB - The T-cell differentiation antigen, CD4, is expressed by major histocompatibility (MHC) class II restricted T lymphocytes. CD4+CD8- T cells use their T-cell receptor to recognize foreign antigens in association with MHC class II products (Ia). The association between CD4 expression and restriction by MHC class II products has led to the hypothesis that CD4 may interact with monomorphic determinants of MHC class II molecules. A large body of experimental evidence suggests that CD4 interaction with MHC class II molecules leads to an increase in the binding avidity of T cell-stimulator cell interactions. A direct test for a functional CD4-MHC class II interaction in T-cell activation requires a separate evaluation of CD4-Ia interactions from T-cell receptor (TcR)-antigen (Ag)/Ia recognition. However, a separate evaluation proves difficult since the T-cell receptor and CD4 may interact with the same MHC class II molecule. In this report, we use a T-cell activation protocol where TcR-Ag/Ia recognition is replaced by TcR complex-anti-CD3 antibody interactions. Therefore, the affinity of the TcR complex for its ligand (the anti-CD3 mAb) is independent from MHC expression on target cells and allows a separate evaluation of the role of accessory molecules in T-cell activation. We have analysed the effects of monoclonal anti-MHC class II antibodies on the activation of a CD4+ T-cell hybridoma in the absence of its TcR restricting MHC class II molecule (I-Ek) but in the presence of unrelated MHC class II molecules (I-Ed, I-Ad). The data obtained indicate a functional interaction between the CD4 molecule and a non polymorphic region of the MHC class II product in T-cell triggering. PMID- 2530153 TI - Effects of mannose and mannose derivatives on the clearance of IgG antibody coated erythrocytes in the rat. AB - The effects of D-mannose, mannose dimers, mannan, or lactotransferrin [a glycoprotein containing mannose alpha-(1,6) linkages] infusion on the clearance of IgG-coated, 99mTc-labelled, autologous red blood cells (IgG-RBC) by the spleen and liver were investigated in the rat. Untreated autologous rat RBC labelled with 111In were simultaneously injected to correct for 99mTc present in the blood contained in each organ. In normal rats, the mean specific spleen uptake (per g) of IgG-RBC was about 10 times higher than the mean specific liver uptake (per g). Consistent with the clearance curves of IgG-RBC, the mean specific splenic uptake of those RBC significantly decreased after D-mannose, mannose dimers, mannan, or lactotransferrin injections, compared with that measured in normal rats or in control rats receiving i.v. physiological saline, 5% or 15% glucose. In contrast, the mean specific liver uptake of IgG-RBC remained unchanged under otherwise identical experimental conditions. The splenic blockade induced by mannan and mannose derivatives was dose-dependent, C3-independent and spontaneously reversible within 42 hr. Splenic macrophages isolated from mannose- or mannan treated animals expressed a decreased receptor activity for the Fc domain of IgG, whereas no consistent effect on the C3 receptors was noted. These data show a transient and specific impairment of the Fc(IgG)-receptor function of rat splenic macrophages after the i.v. injection of D-mannose or of mannose derivatives. They support the concept that simple sugar compounds can exhibit immunoregulatory activities in vivo, as has been already shown in vitro. PMID- 2530154 TI - Leucocyte common antigen expression on T cells in normal and inflamed human gut. AB - The expression of the 220,000 MW (p220) glycoprotein component of the leucocyte common antigen (LCA) family by intestinal mucosal lymphocytes was studied using the CD45R monoclonal antibody WR16. In normal intestine, a proportion of CD3+ mucosal T cells were WR16+ and this population resided predominantly in the mid villus and crypt region of lamina propria. In the inflammatory infiltrates of both coeliac disease and Crohn's disease the CD3+, WR16+ population was markedly reduced. The monoclonal antibody UCHL1 identifies the 180,000 MW member of the LCA family and is expressed on T cells and in macrophages. CD3+ lymphocytes expressing this marker were widespread in normal lamina propria and epithelium. In contrast with WR16, UCHL1+ cells remained at a high level in coeliac disease and Crohn's disease. Our results support the view that loss of the p220 molecule occurs upon T-cell activation in inflammation. PMID- 2530155 TI - Effect of cytokines on spontaneous and allergen-induced CD23 expression, sCD23 release and Ig(E,G) synthesis from peripheral blood lymphocytes. AB - We studied the expression of the CD23 antigen as well as the release of soluble CD23 from peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) of atopic donors. PBL were stimulated with allergen (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus; Der.p.), cytokines (interleukin-4, interferon-gamma; IL-4, IFN-gamma) or combinations of stimuli. CD23 levels were enhanced after the addition of allergen or IL-4 (10 U/ml) up to 10-fold compared to spontaneous expression. Soluble CD23 (sCD23) release was enhanced in a dose-dependent manner by allergen or IL-4. The combined addition of IL-4 and allergen resulted in an expression of CD23 as well as sCD23 release from PBL that was higher compared to the effects obtained with a single component. The production of Ig(E,G) increased in the presence of IL-4 (10 U/ml). This effect was enhanced after the addition of allergen. In contrast, the addition of allergen alone did not modulate IgE synthesis but revealed an enhanced IgG synthesis. Spontaneous as well as allergen- or IL-4-induced CD23 expression was significantly reduced in the presence of IFN-gamma, whereas the concomitant sCD23 release was enhanced in a dose-dependent fashion. IgE synthesis (spontaneous, IL 4 induced) was suppressed in the presence of IFN-gamma. IFN-gamma also reduced the IL-4-enhanced IgG secretion, whereas the spontaneous IgG production was not affected. PMID- 2530156 TI - Immobilized anti-CD3 monoclonal antibodies induce accessory cell-independent lymphokine production, proliferation and helper activity in human T lymphocytes. AB - Monoclonal antibodies (mAb) directed against the human CD3 molecular complex are able, when immobilized on the plastic of microtitre wells, to induce accessory cell-independent T-cell proliferation. In this study, we show that the anti-CD3 mAb CLB-T3/3 induces strong T-cell stimulation that is proportional to the density of the immobilized antibody. T cells, optimally stimulated with plastic immobilized CLB-T3/3, showed a five-fold higher proliferation compared to cells that were stimulated with soluble anti-CD3 in the presence of accessory cells. The difference in magnitude of proliferation was found to be correlated with the expression of the CD25 (TAC) antigen and the production of interleukin (IL)-2, but not with the number of high-avidity IL-2 receptors expressed on the surface of these differentially activated cells. In addition, immobilized CLB-T3/3 initiated the production of interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), but not of IL-4, in purified T lymphocytes. Coated anti-CD3 mAb induced helper activity in T cells for IgM and IgG production by B lymphocytes. Whereas addition of IL-1 or IL-2 had only a moderate effect on T-cell proliferation induced by immobilized anti-CD3 mAb, helper activity was strongly enhanced in the presence of these factors. This T-cell activation system may prove useful for a standardized analysis of both activation requirements and immunoregulatory capacities of human T cells. PMID- 2530157 TI - Expression of T-cell receptors TcR1 (gamma/delta) and TcR2 (alpha/beta) in the human intestinal mucosa. AB - Cryostat sections of normal human adult gastrointestinal mucosae were studied by double-label immunofluorescence with antibodies to CD3, CD4, CD8, CD5 and CD6, in parallel with antibodies beta F1 and TCR delta 1 against beta-chains and delta chains of the T-cell receptor (TcR) types TcR2 (alpha/beta) and TcR1 (gamma/delta), respectively. Virtually no TcR1+ were found within the lamina propria. In the epithelial compartment, TcR1+ cells were infrequent: in the small bowel, congruent to 2% of T cells were TcR1+. In the colonic epithelium, the percentage of T cells expressing gamma/delta-chains was higher, with a mean value approximating 15-20%, although this apparently large percentage increase compared with small bowel reflects in part a much lower density of colonic IEL, as absolute numbers of TCR delta 1+ cells were comparable. Of the TcR1+ population, about half were CD4- CD8-, 'double negatives' and the remainder were CD8+. TcR1+ cells were also CD5- CD6-, irrespective of expression of CD8. No CD4+ cells expressing TcR1 were observed: essentially all CD4+ cells were beta F1+, with some variability of labelling intensity. Approximately 30-50% of the CD8+ subset expressed the beta F1 antigen strongly. However, in the remaining TcR1- CD8+ cells, which were all of the CD5- CD6- phenotype, expression of the beta F1 antigen was only detectable when streptavidin and biotin conjugates were used for amplification of labelling. Thus, the CD8+ CD5- subset, a prominent population of the epithelial compartment of the small bowel, was either TcR2dull in the majority or TcR1+ in a minority. Our data imply that gamma/delta TcR1 cells may be actively excluded from intestinal lamina propria, and that any preferential localization that does occur is limited and is rather a feature of the colonic mucosa, rather than the small bowel. PMID- 2530159 TI - Antigen-specific inhibition of IL-2 and IL-3 production in contact sensitivity to TNP. AB - The production of IL-2 and IL-3 by T cells from mice which had been contact sensitized to TNP and/or tolerized by intravenous injections of TNBS was assayed. Contact sensitization rapidly primes T cells, so that they respond to in vitro restimulation with haptenated syngeneic cells by producing IL-2 and IL-3. This production is strongly inhibited, in an antigen-specific manner, in tolerized mice. At least part of this inhibition can be attributed to the action of suppressor T cells that act by preventing the activation of lymphokine production in vitro. Lymphokine production thus closely parallels the in vivo delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) reaction in this system. PMID- 2530160 TI - [Inflammatory acne resistant to conventional therapy. Efficacy and tolerability of isotretinoin]. AB - The effectiveness and tolerance of isotretinoin have been assessed in 72 cases (34 male and 38 female) suffering from papulo-pustular acne with nodulo-cystic component recalcitrant to traditional treatments. The drug confirmed its noteworthy effectiveness and speed of action in all cases. Stress is laid in particular on the lack of recurrence even after a very long-term follow-up. Tolerance was also very good with a prevalent incidence of mucocutaneous signs (desquamation, cheilitis, dermatitis) and the consequent acceptability of treatment on the part of patients. PMID- 2530158 TI - A further characterization of Candida albicans-induced suppressor B-cell activity. AB - We have previously established that components of the organism Candida albicans are capable of inducing suppressive activity in a population of B lymphocytes. The activity of this population is antigen non-specific. The proliferative response to T-cell, but not B-cell, specific mitogens is inhibited. In addition, the antibody response in vitro is suppressed. Since little is known about this relatively unique regulatory population, we have attempted to characterize both the expression and induction of activity of the Candida-primed cells. Our results show that both primary and secondary T-cell-dependent antibody responses are inhibited, whereas both type I and type II T-cell-independent antibody responses are not affected by the suppressor cell population. T-cell populations responsible for both interleukin-2 (IL-2) and cytolytic activity are also unaffected. These results suggest that while there is no antigen specificity for this population, the suppressive activity is extended to limited target cell populations. Results also suggest that both T cells and accessory cells are required for the induction of the suppressor cell activity, indicating that the Candida organism acts as a typical T-dependent antigen in the induction of regulatory cell activity. PMID- 2530161 TI - [Evaluation of the efficacy and tolerability of a cream soap and a non-alcoholic tonic in the therapy of rosacea]. AB - The results of a clinical study in evaluating the effectiveness and tolerance of a detergent cream and a non-alcoholic tonic lotion are reported. The study was carried out on 20 patients affected by rosacea. PMID- 2530162 TI - [Acne fulminans during therapy with isotretinoin]. PMID- 2530164 TI - Regulation of normal myelopoiesis and chronic myelogenous leukaemia cell proliferation through a non-cytotoxic mechanism by a gamma/delta T cell clone. AB - Regulatory effects on myelopoiesis and myelogenous leukaemia cell proliferation mediated by a human T cell clone (TCC) carrying a gamma/delta receptor have been studied. MHC-unrestricted cytotoxicity could be induced in this clone by culture with IL-2 but not IL-4. Increasing concentrations of IL-2 resulted in increased lysis of natural killer (NK)-susceptible target cells but lysis of NK-resistant targets could not be induced. Moreover, cytotoxicity on fresh chronic myeloid leukaemia cells was not measurable even after culture with 1000 U/ml IL-2. However, NK-resistant targets could be lysed when anti-receptor antibodies (OKT3 or TCR-delta 1) were added to the assay. Clone 290-2 cells secreted lymphokines potentially inhibitory for myelopoiesis (TNF-alpha, IFN-gamma), and their supernatants could inhibit optimally stimulated granulocyte/macrophage colony formation by normal bone marrow. Moreover, 290-2 cells prevented the consistently observed IL-3-stimulated enhancement of proliferation of CML cells, although even IL-3-pretreated leukaemic cells were still resistant to lysis by this clone. Thus, cells of this type, even when not directly cytolytic, could have a role in the regulation of myeloid cell growth. PMID- 2530163 TI - [Azelaic acid in the treatment of acne]. AB - This review is an update of the literature accumulated over the past 6 years following the original observation that topically applied azelaic acid, a non toxic C9 dicarboxylic acid, has a beneficial therapeutic effect on acne vulgaris. These studies have shown that azelaic acid has a modulating influence on the process of keratinization, and that it acts as a keratolytic and anti-comedogenic agent. There is evidence that it inhibits mitochondrial and microsomal oxido reductases, including 5-alpha-reductase, and that it may interfere with the process of sebogenesis. It has a spectrum of antimicrobial activity, both in vitro and in vivo, against aerobic microorganisms and is effective against the anaerobic Propionibacterium acnes. Extensive multi-centre clinical trials have established that topical azelaic acid (a 20% cream) is an effective treatment for all types of acne. It compares well with other agents, such as topical tretinoin or benzoyl-peroxide, or oral tetracycline. It is non-irritant, and does not give rise to allergic or photo-toxic reactions. Its use is not associated with teratogenicity, possible endocrine unbalance, or the disadvantages of antibiotic treatment. It can be applied for long periods, in recurrences, and as maintenance "spot" therapy against individual lesions. PMID- 2530165 TI - Central versus peripheral tolerance: clonal inactivation versus suppressor T cells, the second half of the 'Thirty Years War'. AB - The period of intellectual history of immunology that we wish to treat began some 30 years ago, in 1958, when the features of immune tolerance had already been described (Billingham, Brent & Medawar, 1953), but mechanisms remained difficult to fathom. The subsequent 30 years in quest of the key(s) to tolerance can be roughly divided into the pre-T-cell suppression half, and the years from 1973 to 1988 in which the major rival to ideas of clonal deletion or abortion has been the T-suppressor cell. PMID- 2530166 TI - Effect of antiandrogens on some key enzymes of glycolysis in epididymis and ventral prostate of rat. AB - Effect of three antiandrogens: cyproterone acetate (5 mg/day, sc), flutamide (5 mg/day, sc) and STS-557 (5 mg/day, po) and an estrogen, estradiol dipropionate (5 micrograms/day, sc) on some key enzymes of carbohydrate metabolism was investigated in adult rat epididymis and ventral prostate. Antiandrogens were administered for 21 days and estrogen for 14 days. All of them caused a significant decrease in the weight of epididymis, seminal vesicles and ventral prostate. A significant decrease in the specific activities of enzymes (hexokinase, phosphofructokinase, aldolase, glyceraldehyde phosphate dehydrogenase, pyruvate kinase, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and 6 phosphogluconate dehydrogenase) occurred only in the organs of estrogen treated rats; activities of some of the enzymes were lowered also in the prostate of STS 557 treated rats. Flutamide and cyproterone acetate were ineffective in this regard. The possible factors responsible for the ineffectiveness of synthetic antiandrogens in influencing epididymal metabolism are discussed. PMID- 2530167 TI - Responses against antigens encoded by the H-3 histocompatibility locus: antigens stimulating class I MHC- and class II MHC-restricted T cells are encoded by separate genes. AB - The purpose of this work was to study the genetic basis of histocompatibility antigens encoded by the mouse minor histocompatibility (H) locus H-3. Both class I major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-restricted cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) and class II MHC-restricted helper T cells (TH) specific for antigens encoded by genes within the H-3 locus were isolated and analyzed. Typing a number of mouse strains for expression of antigens recognized by these TH and CTL suggested that there was a different strain distribution pattern of expression of the antigens recognized by TH compared with those recognized by CTL. Separation of the genes whose products stimulate TH from those whose products stimulate CTL was suggested by: (1) analysis of the strain B10.FS(92NX)/Grf that has undergone recombination within the H-3 region; (2) genetic segregation studies of (B10.UW-H-3b/Sn x C57BL/10Sn)F2 mice; and (3) F1 complementation studies in which CTL specific for products of the TH-defined gene(s) could not be detected, even in the absence of immune responses to products of the CTL-defined genes. Taken together, these data suggest that in addition to two genes (B2m and Cd-1) within the H-3 region whose products typically stimulate class I MHC-restricted CTL, there is at least one additional gene whose product selectively stimulates class II MHC-restricted TH. This new gene is located telomeric from the CTL-defined genes and between the loci we and un on chromosome 2. These data demonstrate a novel degree of complexity of the H-3 "locus" and suggest selective presentation of minor H gene products in the context of class I or class II MHC proteins. PMID- 2530168 TI - Genetic analysis of a group of mentally retarded children. AB - Genetic analysis of 169 mentally retarded (MR) children from Madras, revealed chromosomal abnormalities in 17%. Down syndrome was the major chromosomal anomaly (24/169 = 14.2%). These included three cases of trisomy-21 mosaics, and one case of de novo Robertsonian translocation. MR children with chromosomal abnormalities were either mildly or moderately retarded. Syndromes with known etiology occurred in 3% of the MR cases. Microcephaly, neonatal anoxia, perinatal stress and pharmacological attempt for abortion were found to be important pathogenic factors associated with MR. Most of the microcephalics (11/169 = 6.5%) were severely retarded, whereas those associated with neonatal anoxia and perinatal stress were either mildly or moderately retarded. Birth-order effects were found only among Down syndrome patients. Segregation analysis of the three groups of proband families (viz. mild, moderate and severe MR) indicated that autosomal recessive mode of inheritance is compatible in moderate and severe MR proband families. The proportion of X-linked instances of MR is estimated to be about 22% of the cases. PMID- 2530169 TI - Chloride enters glial cells and photoreceptors in response to light stimulation in the retina of the honey bee drone. AB - Double-barrelled ion-selective microelectrodes were used to measure free [Cl-] in photoreceptors, extracellular space, and glial cells in superfused slices of drone retina. Tests indicated that with normal superfusate the intracellular electrode signal was due essentially to Cl- and not to some other interfering anion. The results indicate that Cl- is more concentrated in both photoreceptors and glial cells than would be predicted for a passive electrochemical distribution. When the photoreceptors were stimulated by a standard train of 20 ms flashes, 1/s for 90 s, their intracellular free [Cl-] (Cli) rose by 8 +/- 1 mM. At the end of stimulation Cli usually continued to rise for up to a further 2 min and then returned toward the baseline over about 10 min. During light stimulation Cli in the glia rose. The magnitude of the increase was 5.1 +/- 0.4 mM, about half the increase in Ki. In some extracellular recording sites, light stimulation caused [Cl-] to increase and in others to decrease. The mean change was -0.7 mM, SD 6.5 mM. The Cl- that entered the photoreceptors and the glia was presumably made available by the shrinking of the extracellular space. When the cells were depolarized by increasing [K+] in the superfusate from 7.5 mM to 18 mM, Cli increased. The half-time of the change in Cli was longer than the half time of the depolarization by 10-30 s in the glia and 50-250s in the photoreceptors. During superfusion with 0 Cl- Ringer's solution, the light induced rise in extracellular [K+] was greater by a factor of 1.4-2.7, and the clearance after the end of the stimulation was slower. The rate of increase in glial Ki during light stimulation fell; the rate of increase of glial Ki caused by superfusion with raised [K+] (in the absence of Cl-) fell more. We conclude that when extracellular [K+] is increased, entry of Cl- into the glia is necessary for part, but not all, of the net uptake of K+. During light stimulation, the observed movement of CL- into glia contributes to homeostasis of extracellular [K+], and the cell swelling associated with movement of Cl- into both glia and photoreceptors contributes to homeostasis of extracellular [Na+]. PMID- 2530170 TI - Single channel potassium currents in cultured adult bovine oligodendrocytes. AB - These studies have enabled the first characterization of the properties of ion channels in adult oligodendrocytes. Cell-attached recordings from cultured adult bovine cells showed channel activity with 140 mM KCl in the patch pipette; the amplitude of the currents was increased with increasing membrane hyperpolarization. This channel, with a conductance of 29 pS, was selective for inward K+ current; little or no outward current was measured for large depolarizing voltage steps. The channel open time was strongly dependent upon membrane potential, with membrane hyperpolarization decreasing the mean open time 100-fold over a range of 80 mV; at the resting potential of the cell the mean open time of the channel was in excess of 50 ms. Decreasing the concentration of K+ in the pipette diminished the channel conductance with no significant effect to alter the channel open time dependence on potential. The rectification and kinetic properties of the channel would be consistent with a physiological role for the channel in the regulation of external K+ near active neurons; in particular the effect of membrane depolarization to cause maintained channel open duration could be important when the driving force for inward potassium movement through oligodendrocyte membrane was low. Channels selective for outward potassium movement were seen with inside-out excised patch recordings with symmetrical potassium concentrations across the patch; the density of these channels in the bovine membrane was low. PMID- 2530171 TI - Dissociation of GFAP intermediate filaments in EAE: observations in the lumbar spinal cord. AB - Acute experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) in the Lewis rat is a cell mediated autoimmune disease of central nervous system myelin. The lesion has been characterized by breakdown of the blood-brain barrier, edema, and periventricular infiltration of macrophages and lymphocytes. At the early stage of the disease, the astrocytes show a marked increase in immunostaining for glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). A corresponding increase in GFAP content, however, cannot be demonstrated. Electron microscopic examination of the early lesion shows a typical reactive astrocytic response expressed by an enlarged watery cytoplasm, particularly at the level of the processes surrounding neurons and blood vessels and in the neuropil itself. The astroglial processes contain numerous glycogen particles (aggregates and single particles). Glial filaments are also conspicuous and are arranged in small bundles or loose thin filaments adjacent to the bundles. The glial filaments that normally appear as tight bundles have expanded and appear less dense. We suggest that the increase in GFAP immunostaining of the astrocytes in the early lesion is due in part to edema, which causes dissociation of the filaments and thereby exposes more antigenic sites to the antibodies. PMID- 2530172 TI - Electrophysiological characterization of a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor on leech neuropile glial cells. AB - Ion-selective double-barrelled microelectrodes were used to measure the activities of intracellular K+, Na+, Cl-, and H+ (aiK, aiNa, aiCl, pHi) and membrane potential (Em) in neuropile glial cells as well as extracellular K+ activity (aeK) in the neuropile of the leech, Hirudo medicinalis, during bath application of carbachol. As measured with conventional single-barrelled microelectrodes, acetylcholine (ACh), nicotine, carbachol, tetramethylammonium (TMA), and choline elicited concentration-dependent (10(-6)-5 X 10(-3) M) transient membrane depolarizations of up to 60 mV amplitude whereas muscarine (10(-6)-10(-3) M) did not affect Em. alpha-Bungarotoxin (10(-7) M), decamethonium (10(-5) M), d-tubocurarine (5 X 10(-5) M), and strychnine (5 X 10(-5) M) blocked the carbachol depolarization by about 90%. Atropine (5 X 10(-5) M) blocked the response by about 75%, whereas hexamethonium was only effective at millimolar concentrations. Average baseline levels of aeK in the neuropile and of aiK, aiNa, and aiCl in the neuropile glial cells were about 3, 70, 10, and 7 mM, respectively. During the carbachol depolarization aeK and aiNa transiently increased, whereas aiK decreased. In contrast, a rise of aiK and a fall of aiNa were observed during glial depolarizations in solutions with elevated K+ concentration. aiCl increased during both the carbachol- and the K+-induced depolarization. During carbachol, pHi transiently fell by about 0.2 units from its average baseline level of 6.9, whereas an alkalinization of small amplitude was observed in high-K+ solutions. Bath-applied choline, TMA, and decamethonium rapidly accumulated in the neuropile glial cells as intracellularly monitored with double-barrelled microelectrodes filled with Corning K+ exchanger resin, which is highly selective for these agents. The results suggest that leech neuropile glial cells have a nicotinic ACh receptor coupled to a cation channel. It is hypothesized that this channel might also be permeable to choline, TMA, and decamethonium. PMID- 2530173 TI - In situ demonstration of mature oligodendrocytes and their processes: an immunocytochemical study with a new monoclonal antibody, rip. AB - This paper introduces "Rip" a monoclonal antibody that produces relatively complete staining of oligodendrocytes and their processes in the adult central nervous system (CNS). The distribution of Rip immunoreactivity coincides with that of myelinated axons in both the spinal cord and the cerebellum. In addition, double-immunolabeling experiments demonstrate that Rip stains processes containing myelin basic protein but does not stain processes that express glial fibrillary acidic protein. These results indicate that Rip selectively stains oligodendrocytes but not astrocytes. Moreover, individual Rip-stained oligodendrologial somata and their cytoplasmic processes were observable at both the light microscopic and electron microscopic level when the staining of myelin was reduced. This was accomplished by omitting detergents from antibody incubation steps. Rip-stained oligodendrocytes have multiple processes of varying thickness, some of which end in close proximity to myelin sheaths. These immunostained profiles, reminiscent of those observed in oligodendrocytes stained by Golgi methods, are unique to Rip and indicate that its immunoreactivity is distinct from that of existing serological markers for oligodendrocytes. PMID- 2530174 TI - Erythrocyte-mediated scavenging of reactive oxygen metabolites generated by human polymorphonuclear leukocytes during phagocytosis: comparison between normal and Down's syndrome blood cells. AB - The phagocytosis of complement-opsonized yeast particles by polymorphonuclear leukocytes from normal and Down's syndrome subjects was compared in the absence and presence of erythrocytes. Granulocytes from children with Down's syndrome showed a large increase of metabolic activity, as measured with chemiluminescence. This was not associated with autooxidative damage in the presence of erythrocytes. The results indicate that erythrocytes could exert an antioxidant effect on the granulocyte cell surface. This was reflected in an enhanced ingestion, which was more pronounced in the presence of Down erythrocytes with a higher superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase content, than normal cells. Our conclusion is that the increase of reactive oxygen metabolites scavengers in Down's syndrome blood cells is of benefit for the homeostasis between generated reactive oxygen metabolites and their propagation. PMID- 2530175 TI - High-resolution 31P nuclear magnetic resonance study of Chlamydia trachomatis: induction of ATPase activity in elementary bodies. AB - ATPase activity of elementary bodies (EBs) of Chlamydia trachomatis was investigated by using high-resolution 31P nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. ATPase activity was detected in EBs of C. trachomatis serovars A, B, and L2 after treatment with the reducing agents 2-mercaptoethanol and glutathione. ATPase activity was oligomycin sensitive and magnesium ion dependent. EBs heated at 60 degrees C for 10 min or pretreated with Triton X-100 before exposure to 2-mercaptoethanol did not exhibit ATPase activity. Monoclonal antibody to the major outer membrane protein abrogated ATPase activity of EBs, whereas monoclonal antibody to chlamydial lipopolysaccharide only marginally reduced the level of ATPase activity. These findings suggest that EBs possess intrinsic ATPase activity and that cysteine-rich outer membrane proteins of EBs are important in the regulation of ATPase activity. The major outer membrane protein may be the major route through which ATP accesses ATPase. PMID- 2530178 TI - Effect of human mast cell tryptase on human plasma proenzymes. AB - The effect of human skin mast cell tryptase on human plasma proenzymes (prothrombin, coagulation factor XII, complement C1s, protein C and plasminogen) was investigated. Tryptase had no effect on these proenzymes, when incubated with them at 37 degrees C for up to 90 min, as judged by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and by the ability to hydrolyze specific peptide p-nitroanilide substrates. After prolonged treatment with tryptase, proenzymes could be fully activated with their specific activators. The results indicate that tryptase neither activates these plasma proenzymes nor inactivates the corresponding active enzymes. As a positive control, the tryptase preparation was also incubated with human fibrinogen and rat thymus histones. Prolonged treatment with tryptase increased the thrombin-induced clotting time of fibrinogen. Tryptase also efficiently hydrolyzed histone H1 from rat thymus. Histones H3/H2B and H2A were hydrolyzed less efficiently than H1, and no hydrolysis of histone H4 by tryptase was detected under the experimental conditions. PMID- 2530177 TI - Spontaneous switching of the sucrose-promoted colony phenotype in Streptococcus sanguis. AB - Streptococcus sanguis on media containing 3% sucrose gives rise to characteristic hard cohesive colonies (designated Spp+). Populations of Spp+ bacteria (strain Challis) on sucrose media switch to a soft noncohesive phenotype (designated Spp ) at a frequency of 10(-4) to 10(-3). Spp- bacteria switch back to Spp+ bacteria at a similar frequency. Successive rounds of Spp variation were observed. The Spp phenotypic switch was associated with changes in extracellular glucosyltransferase activity. PMID- 2530176 TI - Cloning and expression in Escherichia coli of the genes of the arginine deiminase system of Streptococcus sanguis NCTC 10904. AB - The common oral bacterium Streptococcus sanguis can degrade arginine via the arginine deiminase (AD) system. The three enzymes of this system, AD, ornithine carbamyltransferase (OTC), and carbamate kinase (CK), catalyze the breakdown of arginine to ornithine, CO2, and two molecules of ammonia, with the production of ATP from ADP. The genes of the AD system, which are subject to complex regulation in the oral streptococci, have been isolated in bacteriophage lambda by screening for AD activity. The AD gene, designated arcA, was expressed from recombinant bacteriophage or in cells harboring plasmid subclones from this phage at a level up to 1,000-fold lower than the level in fully derepressed S. sanguis but apparently under the control of its own promoter. By subcloning in Escherichia coli mutants defective in anabolic OTC (argF argL) and CK (carB), it was demonstrated that the genes for S. sanguis OTC and CK were located adjacent to the AD gene. The levels of expression of the OTC and CK genes (arcB and arcC, respectively) were also very low in E. coli, although arcC expression was not as poor as arcA and arcB expression when compared with the levels found in S. sanguis. Also, arcB and arcC were unable to complement the defects in their anabolic counterparts. Introduction of the entire AD system or subclones which encoded only the AD gene into E. coli harboring defects in arginine and pyrimidine biosynthesis resulted in a 10- to 15-fold decrease in the level of AD activity, suggesting that arginine or its metabolites may regulate AD expression. Transposon mutagenesis was utilized to construct defined mutants of S. sanguis with mutations in the AD gene cluster. AD gene expression in these mutants indicated that the expression of the AD genes in this organism is strongly interrelated. The isolation and partial characterization of the arc genes represents the first step in the genetic manipulation of the AD system in the oral streptococci for analysis of the regulation of AD, analysis of the role of the system in plaque ecology, and utilization of the system to modulate the cariogenicity of dental plaque. PMID- 2530179 TI - Accessory cell function of human alveolar macrophages in antigen-induced T lymphocyte proliferation. AB - We compared the accessory cell function of human alveolar macrophages (AM) to that of human blood monocytes (Mo) obtained by bronchoalveolar lavage and venipuncture from normal volunteers. Graded numbers of either AM or Mo were added to autologous peripheral blood T lymphocytes that were stimulated with a purified protein derivative of tuberculin (PPD). Either AM or Mo were cocultured with allogeneic T lymphocytes in mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) experiments. Both AM and Mo supported the PPD-induced T lymphocyte proliferation and allogeneic MLR at low ratios of AM or Mo to T lymphocytes with similar efficiency. However, AM showed marked suppressive effects at higher ratios of AM to T lymphocytes (1:1). PPD-pulsed AM, but not AM killed by physical treatments (heat, freeze-thaw, sonication), induced T lymphocyte proliferation. An indirect immunofluorescent study demonstrated that most AM express HLA-DR antigens. Furthermore, AM synthesized DR antigens with molecular weights of 33,000 and 29,000-31,000 daltons. When AM were treated with both anti-DR monoclonal antibody and complement, PPD-induced T lymphocyte proliferation and MLR were diminished. These results suggest that human AM function as accessory cells in the antigen-induced T lymphocyte proliferation and DR antigens on AM play an important role in the accessory cell function. PMID- 2530180 TI - Reconstitution of cytolytic alloreactivity with N-[4-[(4-fluorophenyl) sulfonyl]phenyl]acetamide (CL 259,763) in animals immunocompromised by cyclophosphamide. AB - A novel synthetic immunopotentiator, i.e. N-[4-[(4 fluorophenyl)sulfonyl]phenyl]acetamide (CL 259,763), was investigated for its potential in reconstituting the cell-mediated immune response of animals whose immunologic system had been severely depressed by cytoreductive agents. It was demonstrated that lymphocytes from mice which had received 300 mg/kg of cyclophosphamide (CY) immediately following antigen sensitization had a reduced capability of responding to alloantigens in mixed lymphocyte culture and failed to generate effective cytolytic T-lymphocytes (CTL) capable of destroying appropriate tumor target cells in a cytotoxicity assay. However, treatment of these immunocompromised animals with CL 259,763 produced a significant restoration of alloreactivity, as evidenced by an enhancement of the CTL response. Although effective doses of CL 259,763 ranged from 20 to 300 mg/kg, the optimal effect was observed at 75 mg/kg. Findings from a time course study indicated that the maximum restoration occurred when CL 259,763 was given to mice 2-5 days after, but not before or simultaneously with, CY treatment. Both the immunoimpairment by CY and its reversal by CL 259,763 appeared not to be antigen specific. The lessened immunoreactivity of CY-treated mice was explicable by the presence of suppressor cells in their spleens. These suppressors were able to adhere to plastic and resisted treatment with anti-Thy 1.2 antibody, indicating a macrophage characteristic. Flow cytometric analysis indicated a quantitative depletion of all T-lymphocytes, including Thy-1.2(+), Lyt-1(+), Lyt-2(+) and L3T4(+) subsets in the spleens of CY-treated mice; however, a population of Mac 1(+) cells was markedly expanded.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530181 TI - Popliteal lymph node reactions in mice induced by the drug zimeldine. AB - The antidepressant drug zimeldine was screened for immune modulating properties using the popliteal lymph node (PLN) assay as a test system in mice. In immunocompetent as well as congenitally athymic nude mice, footpad injection of 1.0 mg zimeldine triggered a bimodal footswelling. A transient oedematous swelling, histologically characterized by mast cell degranulation, was followed by infiltration of polymorphnuclear cells. A dose-dependent PLN enlargement to the agent was observed, which appeared to be more pronounced in immunocompetent mice as compared with athymic nude mice, and in H-2b mice as compared with H-2d mice. After injection of 1.0 mg zimeldine into the footpad of C57BL/10 mice, significant enlargement was already observed by 3 days after injection, was optimal around day 9 and persisted for at least 30 days. Histologically, PLN reactions were characterized by blast transformation of lymphocytes and expansion of paracortical areas prior to germinal center reactions in enlarged follicles. Size of both areas gradually decreased as the medulla filled with plasma cells, 7 30 days after injection. The observed reactions could not be transferred with syngeneic lymph node cells after prior exposition to zimeldine in vivo or in vitro. We conclude that zimeldine induces strong and persistent PLN enlargement, blastogenesis and prominent germinal center reactions. Immunocompetent T-cells are apparently conducive, but not prerequisite to these reactions, which suggests involvement of multiple mechanisms including those mediated by inflammatory reactions in the foot. It is unlikely that the observed enlargement of PLN can be attributed to a direct chemical modification of leukocyte membranes by zimeldine. The protracted nature of the reaction may indicate that zimeldine somehow interferes with inhibitory feedback mechanisms. PMID- 2530183 TI - Human thymocytes expressing gamma/delta T-cell receptors. AB - Expression of T-cell receptors of gamma/delta type characterizes a small subset of peripheral T lymphocytes which is homogeneously composed of cytolytic cells and, in most instances, lack CD4 and CD8 differentiation antigens. By the use of anti-TCR gamma/delta MAbs it is possible to identify two distinct subsets of TCR gamma/delta+ cells that are characterized by a C gamma 1 or C gamma 2-encoded forms of gamma-chain, respectively. While the BB3 MAb-reactive (C gamma 1 encoded) cell subset is prevalent in peripheral blood (PB), these cells represent less than 10% in TCR gamma/delta+ thymocyte populations. In thymus, the majority of cells was found to react with delta-TCSI (or A13) MAbs. Culture of CD4-8- thymocytes (highly enriched in TCR gamma/delta+ cells) in IL-2 resulted in the de novo expression of CD8 surface antigen and of non MHC-restricted cytolytic activity. Cloning of CD4-8- thymocytes resulted, for the most part, in CD3+ TCR gamma/delta+ cells. Moreover, the majority of clones expressed the unusual delta TCSI+ CD8+ phenotype and lysed the NK-sensitive K562 target cells. Analysis of the immunoprecipitated TCR molecules showed the existence of the (rare) heavy (55 kDa) form of gamma-chain. A redirected killing assay using murine P815 target cells and appropriate "stimulatory" antibodies was further employed for functional analysis of thymus-derived TCR gamma/delta+ clones. While anti-CD3 MAbs efficiently triggered the cytolytic activity of all clones irrespective of their phenotype, MAbs directed to TCR gamma/delta induced efficient lysis only of BB3+ or delta-TCSI+CD8 clones, but not of delta-TCSI+ CD8+ clones.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530182 TI - Transcription factors and recessive oncogenes in the pathogenesis of human lung cancer. PMID- 2530184 TI - Retargeting of T-cell-receptor gamma/delta+ lymphocytes against tumor cells by bispecific monoclonal antibodies. Induction of cytolytic activity and lymphokine production. AB - We have recently selected MAbs specific for different molecular forms of the TCR gamma/delta (expressed by distinct cell subsets), able to activate TCR gamma/delta+ cells. Two of these reagents (G1 and A13) were used for the construction of bispecific MAbs in conjunction with a MAb (Mov19) directed to ovarian carcinoma cells, using the hybrid hybridoma technique. The G1-derived bispecific MAb GM33.9 efficiently induced lysis of Mov19+ ovarian carcinoma cell lines (IGROVI and SW626) by G1+ clones in a 4-hr 51Cr-release assay. On the other hand, it was ineffective when Mov19- target cells were used. Comparable results were obtained with the A13-derived AM18.4 bispecific MAb when A13+ clones were used as effector cells. Bispecific MAbs were also able to induce secretion of IL 2 and TNF-alpha by TCR gamma/delta+ clones when Mov19+ target cells were present. PMID- 2530185 TI - Specific recognition by CD3- NK cells: a limiting dilution analysis of the frequency of alloreactive CD3- lymphocyte precursors. PMID- 2530186 TI - Characterization of beta-endorphin in human pituitary by fast atom bombardment mass spectrometry of trypsin-generated fragments. AB - A novel mass spectrometric method possessing a high level of structural specificity is described for characterization in biological fluids and tissues of endogenous beta-endorphin of the human amino acid sequence (beta h-EP). The method is based upon purification of tissue extracts by an RP-HPLC gradient, followed by trypsinolysis of that particular HPLC fraction corresponding to the elution time of synthetic beta h-EP. The tryptic digest of that endogenous beta h EP fraction was purified further by a second RP-HPLC gradient. A unique tryptic fragment selected from the second gradient was analyzed by fast atom bombardment mass spectrometry and B/E linked-field scan MS/MS techniques to provide molecular weight and amino acid sequence-determining fragment ion information, respectively, of that fragment. Collectively, these independent analytical methodologies provided unequivocal structure evidence for the presence of endogenous beta h-EP in human pituitary. The method was established first by utilizing synthetic beta h-EP to optimize experimental parameters, and then applied to the analysis of beta h-EP in post-mortem human pituitary extracts. The suitability of the present method for semi-quantitation of tissue extracts is also demonstrated. The corresponding detection limit of the synthetic beta h-EP was 90 fmol, and human pituitary contained 1.5 pmol of beta h-EP mg-1 protein. The method can be extended readily to the analysis of beta-endorphin derived from other species and tissues. PMID- 2530187 TI - Reduced fibrinolytic capacity and its restoration by plasminogen substitution in acute renal failure. AB - A common finding in acute renal failure, particularly if it is caused by septic shock, consists of fibrin deposits in the intrarenal blood vessels. In a study of fibrinolytic parameters in 82 patients with severe bacterial infections, a significant negative correlation between plasminogen plasma concentration and serum creatinine was found. On admission the plasminogen levels were lower than the alpha 2-antiplasmin concentrations, which means a reduction of the fibrinolytic capacity due to a preponderance of the inhibitor. Preliminary experience with a replacement therapy is here reported. In 9 patients with an acute renal failure due to septicaemia or other serious diseases with shock, a substitution with fresh frozen plasma and antithrombin III concentrate was carried out in order to stop disseminated coagulation. A considerable increase of urine excretion was observed in 5 of these patients in close connection with the additional administration of a plasminogen concentrate. PMID- 2530188 TI - [Genetic determinants of glomerulonephritis. Genetic aspects and pathophysiology of immune complex diseases of the kidney]. PMID- 2530189 TI - Interventional uroradiology. AB - Major interventional uroradiologic techniques including percutaneous nephrostomy, vascular augmentation and reduction procedures, percutaneous cyst aspiration, chronic peritoneal dialysis catheter manipulation and urethroplasty are reviewed. A brief history of the development and techniques for performing these procedures are included. The results of clinical series are assessed and their role in patient management is addressed. The development of these procedures has had a significant impact on patient care by providing effective nonoperative therapy. PMID- 2530190 TI - Reversible severe left ventricular dysfunction due to chronic incessant supraventricular tachycardia. PMID- 2530191 TI - [Treatment of acne vulgaris. A comparison of doxycycline versus minocycline]. AB - In the course of a randomized, comparative, clinical study, 50 patients with acne vulgaris received systemic treatment with a single daily dose of 50 mg doxycycline or two daily doses of 50 mg minocycline. At the completion of the 12 week treatment, cure or improvement of acne was found in 78% of the patients in the doxycycline group compared to 82% in the minocycline group. The rate of unsatisfactory therapeutic results was 22% in the doxycycline group and 18% in the group of patients treated with minocycline. The results showed no significant difference between the clinical efficacy of treating acne vulgaris with doxycycline at a daily dose of 50 mg and 100 mg of minocycline daily, a fact which has already been demonstrated by earlier studies. PMID- 2530192 TI - Benefits for sick and disabled people. PMID- 2530193 TI - The case for depo provera. PMID- 2530194 TI - Scintigraphic detection of atherosclerotic plaques in rabbits with 111In-labeled hematoporphyrin derivative. AB - The efficacy of 111In-labeled hematoporphyrin derivative (HPD) in localizing and detecting atheromas had been investigated with 10 atherogenic New Zealand white rabbits. Atherosclerotic plaques surgically induced in the abdominal aorta showed selective uptake of 111In-HPD over normal blood vessels averaging 0.01% ID/g tissue (range 0.003-0.023% ID/g). Normal aorta and thoracic artery concentrated an average of 0.0026% ID/g which is less than the mean blood activity of 0.0034% ID/mL. Statistical analysis demonstrated significant difference in the uptake of 111In-HPD by the atherosclerotic plaque segments as compared to normal abdominal aorta (P = 0.0023) and normal thoracic artery (P = 0.0012). In hypercholesteremic rabbits, the mean plaque segment to normal blood vessels ratio was 4:1 (range 2 to 9:1) sufficiently high to permit plaque delineation in the scintigram. Although 111In-HPD showed promise as a plaque imaging agent, further investigation with large animal models such as primates is needed to confirm current findings. PMID- 2530195 TI - Nonuniform expression of myosin heavy chain isoforms along the length of cat intrafusal muscle fibers. AB - The expression of four myosin heavy chain (MHC) isoforms, avian slow-tonic (ATO) or neonatal-twitch (ANT) and mammalian slow-twitch (MST) or fast-twitch (MFT) in intrafusal fibers was examined by immunocytochemistry of spindles in the tenuissimus muscle of adult cats. The predominant MHCs expressed by nuclear bag fibers were ATO and MST, whereas the MHCs prevalent in nuclear chain fibers were ANT and MFT. The expression of these isoforms of MHC was not uniform along the length of intrafusal fibers. In general, both bag and chain fibers expressed avian MHC in the intracapsular region and mammalian MHC in the extracapsular region. The nonuniform expression of MHCs observed along the length of bag and chain fibers implies that different genes are activated in myonuclei located in the intracapsular and extracapsular regions of the same muscle fiber. Regional differences in gene activation might result from a greater effect of afferents on myonuclei located near the equator of intrafusal fibers then on myonuclei outside the spindle capsule. PMID- 2530197 TI - Readers' thoughts on treating low back pain with counterstrain technique. PMID- 2530196 TI - Myosin heavy chain isoforms in histochemically defined fiber types of rat muscle. AB - Combined histochemical and biochemical analyses were performed on rat skeletal muscles in order to determine the myosin heavy chain patterns in specific fiber types. Four myosin heavy chain isoforms were separated by gradient polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of extracts from single fibers and whole muscle homogenates. Their electrophoretic mobility increased in the order HCIIa, HCIIb, and HCI. HCIIa, HCIIb and HCI were present as unique isoforms in histochemically defined fiber types IIA, IIB and I, respectively. The isoforms HCI and HCIIa coexisted at variable ratios in type IC and IIC fibers. An additional fast myosin heavy chain isoform with an electrophoretic mobility between HCIIa and HCIIb was designated as HCIId because of its abundance in fast fibers of large diameter in the diaphragm. With the exception of slight differences in mATPase staining intensity after acid preincubation, these fibers were almost indistinguishable from type IIB fibers. In view of their specific myosin heavy chain composition (HCIId), these fibers were named type IID. In the extensor digitorum longus muscle, type IID fibers were of smaller size than type IIB and differed from the latter by higher NADH tetrazolium reductase activities. Circumstantial evidence suggests that type IID fibers are identical with the 2X fibers, previously described by Schiaffino et al. (1986). PMID- 2530198 TI - Psychosomatic avoidance of conflict in back pain. PMID- 2530200 TI - Presence of type I and type II/IB receptors for adrenocorticosteroid hormones in the inner ear. AB - Aldosterone-Type I and dexamethasone-Type II/IB receptor complexes were identified in cytosol prepared from both cochlear and vestibular tissue samples. The specific binding capacity of Type I receptors in the cochlear tissues was approximately equal to that in the vestibular tissues. Likewise, the binding capacity of Type II/IB receptors in the cochlea was approximately equal to that in the vestibular endorgans. Based on the total specific binding measured with dexamethasone, the Type II/IB receptors appeared to outnumber the Type I receptors in cochlear and vestibular tissues by a factor of approximately 2.6; however, when adjustments were made for the probable cross-binding of dexamethasone to Type I receptors, these ratios were decreased to approximately 1.6. The existence of protein receptors for adrenocorticosteroid hormones demonstrated in the present study clearly suggests a mechanism whereby such hormones may directly regulate fluid and ionic gradients in the inner ear. PMID- 2530199 TI - Intracellular distribution of Ca2+-Mg2+ adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) in various tissues. AB - The cytochemical distribution of Ca2+-Mg2+-ATPase was studied ultrastructurally, using a lead capture method at pH 8.5 and compared in various tissues. In thymic, splenic and activated peripheral blood lymphocytes and in cultured HeLa cells activity was consistently localised on the nuclear envelope, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, mitochondria and weakly on centrioles, but not on the plasma membrane. Intracellular activity was similarly distributed in intestinal absorptive cells where activity was particularly strong in the Golgi apparatus, and in hepatocytes where, however, activity was generally weak. Intracellular activity was lacking in renal glomerular and tubular cells and in cerebellar neurons and neuroglia. Variable activity was present on the outer surface of the plasma membrane, particularly on the brush borders of intestinal and renal tubular absorptive cells, the basolateral invaginations of distal tubules and the bile canaliculi. Mitochondrial activity, when present, was inhibited by oligomycin. The localisation at different sites may represent biochemically different ATPases including endoplasmic reticular ATPase involved in intracellular calcium regulation, oligomycin-sensitive mitochondrial ATPase, dynein-like ATPase associated with centrioles and an ectoenzyme associated with cell surface specialisations. PMID- 2530202 TI - Update: October 1989 guidelines for nutrition support in AIDS. Task Force on Nutrition in AIDS. PMID- 2530201 TI - A new macrolide, TE-031 (A-56268), in treatment of experimental Legionnaires' disease. AB - The activity of a new macrolide, TE-031 (A-56268), against Legionella pneumophila in vitro was superior to the activities of roxithromycin, erythromycin and josamycin. The tissue concentrations of TE-031 in guinea pigs after oral administration (20 mg/kg) was much higher than those of roxithromycin, erythromycin and josamycin. The maximum concentration of TE-031 was 107.0 mg/kg in the lung, and 1.4 mg/l in the serum. The uptake of macrolides by cells collected by bronchoalveolar lavage in guinea pigs was measured by a radioisotopic method. The maximum ratios of intracellular to extracellular concentration of TE-031, roxithromycin, josamycin and erythromycin were 71.9, 24.8, 39.7 and 7.9, respectively. In infected guinea pigs, with the exception of erythromycin, the ratios were reduced to approximately half the values in normal animals. TE-031 showed greater therapeutic efficacy against experimental L. pneumophila pneumonia than roxithromycin, erythromycin and josamycin. TE-031 is a promising drug for treatment of legionella pneumonia and should be investigated in a clinical study on human Legionnaires' disease. PMID- 2530203 TI - The Antidumping Statute. PMID- 2530204 TI - Pediatric spinal cord tumors. PMID- 2530205 TI - Carcinoma of the thyroid metastatic to regional lymph nodes. PMID- 2530206 TI - Occupational medicine: a challenge for the primary care physician. PMID- 2530207 TI - Insurance company to pay for AZT. PMID- 2530209 TI - Purification of a fourth glucosyltransferase from Streptococcus sobrinus. AB - Recently, we found a novel primer-independent, water-soluble glucan synthase as a fourth glucosyltransferase (GTF) in a culture supernatant of strain AHT-k of Streptococcus sobrinus (Y. Yamashita, N. Hanada, and T. Takehara, Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 150:687-693, 1988). In the present study, four kinds of purified GTFs, including the novel GTF, were prepared. They were composed of two primer-dependent GTFs and two primer-independent GTFs. Of the primer-dependent GTFs, one was a water-insoluble glucan synthase and the other was a water-soluble glucan synthase; both of the primer-independent GTFs were water-soluble glucan synthases (GTF-Sis). Using antisera against four purified GTFs, we concluded that the immunological properties of each were completely different from those of the others. Additionally, it was shown that the novel GTF-Si, which was previously shown to have a molecular weight of 137,000, was proteolytically degraded and could be isolated at a molecular weight of 152,000 and that Streptococcus cricetus secreted an enzyme that immunologically cross-reacted with GTF-Si. While the product of the novel GTF-Si was not an effective primer for both of the primer-dependent enzymes (water-soluble and -insoluble glucan synthases), the product of the enzyme affected the molecular size of the products of the other GTF-Sis. PMID- 2530208 TI - Oxidation of Neurospora crassa NADP-specific glutamate dehydrogenase by activated oxygen species. AB - The glutamine synthetase and the NADP-specific glutamate dehydrogenase activities of Neurospora crassa were lost in a culture without carbon source only when in the presence of air. Glutamine synthetase was previously reported to be liable to in vitro and in vivo inactivation by activated oxygen species. Here we report that NADP-specific glutamate dehydrogenase was remarkably stable in the presence of activated oxygen species but was rendered susceptible to oxidative inactivation when chelated iron was bound to the enzyme and either ascorbate or H2O2 reacted on the bound iron. This reaction gave rise to further modifications of the enzyme monomers by activated oxygen species, to partial dissociation of the oligomeric structure, and to precipitation and fragmentation of the enzyme. The in vitro oxidation reaction was affected by pH, temperature, and binding to the enzyme of NADPH. Heterogeneity in total charge was observed in the purified and immunoprecipitated enzymes, and the relative amounts of enzyme monomers with different isoelectric points changes with time of the oxidizing reaction. PMID- 2530210 TI - Effect of polyamines on mitochondrial F1-ATPase catalyzed reactions. AB - The effect of polyamines on F1-ATPase catalyzed reactions has been studied through the use of submitochondrial particles and F1-ATPase. ATP degradation catalyzed by submitochondrial particles and F1-ATPase was inhibited by spermine and spermidine. Spermine's inhibition was much greater than spermidine's effect. In contrast, P1-ATP exchange and succinate dependent ATP synthesis catalyzed by submitochondrial particles were both stimulated by spermine. The inhibition of ATPase activity by polyamines probably occurs through polyamine's replacement of Mg2+ on ATP, for the following reasons. (a) The ATPase activity inhibited by spermine was partially recovered when Mg2+ was added. (b) Spermine bound to ATP and phospholipids but not to F1-ATPase; yet spermine inhibited the ATPase reaction catalyzed by F1-ATPase, a protein free of phospholipid. (c) The binding of spermine to ATP was inhibited by Mg2+. The ATP content in polyamine-deficient cells definitely was lower than that in normal cells. On the basis of these results, the possible role of spermine in keeping the ATP concentration at a high level is discussed. PMID- 2530211 TI - Two states of the conformation of 21S outer arm dynein coupled with ATP hydrolysis. AB - Tryptic digestion of 21S outer arm dynein from sea urchin sperm flagella in the presence of ATP (or ADP) and vanadate produced quite different polypeptides from those obtained in the absence of ATP (ADP) and/or vanadate (Inaba and Mohri (1989) J. Biol. Chem. 264, 8384-8388). The 21S dynein heavy chains were consistently digested into 165- and 135-kDa polypeptides in the absence of both ATP (ADP) and vanadate. In the presence of 2 mM ADP and 100 microM vanadate, 300 kDa polypeptide, which appeared to be a precursor of 165- and 135-kDa polypeptides, became less accessible to trypsin, and 165- and 135-kDa polypeptides were digested into 150-/148-kDa and 96-kDa polypeptides, respectively. Quantitative analysis of the degradation of 165- and 135-kDa polypeptides showed that the conformations of these polypeptides change remarkably in the presence of ATP (ADP) and vanadate, and slightly in the presence of ATP gamma S. Photoaffinity labeling with 8-azidoadenosine 5' triphosphate and vanadate-mediated photocleavage of dynein heavy chains revealed that both adenine- and gamma-Pi-binding sites were located on 165- and 150-/148 kDa polypeptides, but not on 135-kDa polypeptide. These results suggest that the conformational change occurring in the 165-kDa region on binding ATP spreads to the 135-kDa region and causes the conformational change of the 135-kDa region. PMID- 2530212 TI - Adenine nucleotide contents and ATPases activities in porcine deciduous dental pulp during the root formation, in fully formed root and during root resorption phases. AB - Nucleotide content and activity of certain enzymes were compared in pigs of various ages in order to study the energetic metabolism of deciduous dental pulps in the three phases of the cycle of tooth ontogeny, namely, root formation, fully formed root and root resorption phases. The frozen pulps were removed with the help of a screw vise and analysed for ATP, ADP and AMP contents and Ca2+ and Mg2+ ATPases activities. The highest ATP content in the first deciduous molar pulp was found when the tooth was still in an intrabony position. The calculated energy charge, although low for all groups, at this stage of development, indicated an activation of the consuming processes. In the root resorption phase, lowest ATP content and higher Ca2+ and Mg2+-ATPases activities were observed. PMID- 2530213 TI - Characterization of a synthetic peptide that inhibits the interaction between protein S and C4b-binding protein. AB - Protein S is unique among the vitamin K-dependent proteins found in blood plasma because it is a cofactor rather than a zymogen of a serine protease. Instead of a trypsin-like domain, protein S contains a domain that has sequence homology with steroid binding proteins. In order to understand the function of this structural domain, peptides have been synthesized with amino acid sequences that are homologous between human protein S and rat androgen binding protein. Two peptides, corresponding to amino acids 400-407 (PINPRLDG) and 605-614 (GVQLDLDEAI) of the protein S sequence have been tested for their effects on protein S function. Neither peptide altered the clotting of bovine or human plasma. The peptide GVQLDLDEAI enhanced the anticoagulant activity of human activated protein C in human plasma while the peptide PINPRLDG had no effect. The peptide GVQLDLDEAI was observed to inhibit the binding of protein S to C4b binding protein in plasma, resulting in increased concentrations of free protein S. GVQLDLDEAI was also observed to enhance the disassociation of the protein S.C4b-binding protein complex when purified complex was used. Finally, C4b binding protein was observed to bind to GVQLDLDEAI. These results suggest that the carboxyl-terminal region of protein S, which contains the sequence GVQLDLDEAI, is involved in the interaction between protein S and C4b-binding protein. PMID- 2530214 TI - Energy-dependent conformational changes in the epsilon subunit of the chloroplast ATP synthase (CF0CF1). AB - Incubation of spinach chloroplast thylakoids with pyridoxal 5'-phosphate modified the epsilon subunit of ATP synthase (CF0CF1). Illumination of thylakoids stimulated the modification of one specific amino acid residue of the epsilon subunit by a factor of 3. Endoproteinase Glu-C treatment of the isolated epsilon subunit and fractionation of the peptides by high performance liquid chromatography revealed a major fluorescent peptide with the sequence GKRQKIE. Further treatment of this peptide with endoproteinase Arg-C gave a strongly fluorescent tripeptide (GXR). From the primary structure of the epsilon subunit, the specifically modified residue was deduced to be Lys-109. This suggests the energy-dependent conformational changes in the epsilon subunit which change the surroundings of Lys-109 and alter the reactivity of this residue. PMID- 2530215 TI - Cyclopiazonic acid is a specific inhibitor of the Ca2+-ATPase of sarcoplasmic reticulum. AB - The mycotoxin, cyclopiazonic acid (CPA), inhibits the Ca2+-stimulated ATPase (EC 3.6.1.38) and Ca2+ transport activity of sarcoplasmic reticulum (Goeger, D. E., Riley, R. T., Dorner, J. W., and Cole, R. J. (1988) Biochem. Pharmacol. 37, 978 981). We found that at low ATP concentrations (0.5-2 microM) the inhibition of ATPase activity was essentially complete at a CPA concentration of 6-8 nmol/mg protein, indicating stoichiometric reaction of CPA with the Ca2+-ATPase. Cyclopiazonic acid caused similar inhibition of the Ca2+-stimulated ATP hydrolysis in intact sarcoplasmic reticulum and in a purified preparation of Ca2+ ATPase. Cyclopiazonic acid also inhibited the Ca2+-dependent acetylphosphate, p nitrophenylphosphate and carbamylphosphate hydrolysis by sarcoplasmic reticulum. ATP protected the enzyme in a competitive manner against inhibition by CPA, while a 10(5)-fold change in free Ca2+ concentration had only moderate effect on the extent of inhibition. CPA did not influence the crystallization of Ca2+-ATPase by vanadate or the reaction of fluorescein-5'-isothiocyanate with the Ca2+-ATPase, but it completely blocked at concentrations as low as 1-2 mol of CPA/mol of ATPase the fluorescence changes induced by Ca2+ and [ethylenebis(oxyethylenenitrilo)]tetraacetic acid (EGTA) in FITC-labeled sarcoplasmic reticulum and inhibited the cleavage of Ca2+-ATPase by trypsin at the T2 cleavage site in the presence of EGTA. These observations suggest that CPA interferes with the ATP-induced conformational changes related to Ca2+ transport. The effect of CPA on the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase appears to be fairly specific, since the kidney and brain Na+,K+-ATPase (EC 3.6.1.37), the gastric H+,K+-ATPase (EC 3.6.1.36), the mitochondrial F1-ATPase (EC 3.6.1.34), the Ca2+ ATPase of erythrocytes, and the Mg2+-activated ATPase of T-tubules and surface membranes of rat skeletal muscle were not inhibited by CPA, even at concentrations as high as 1000 nmol/mg protein. PMID- 2530216 TI - Molecular characterization of the murine interferon gamma receptor cDNA. AB - Interferon gamma receptors (IFN-gamma R) exhibit remarkable species specificity. In order to understand the basis for this phenomenon, we have isolated a recombinant cDNA clone corresponding to the mouse (Mu) IFN-gamma R. Microinjection of the mRNA synthesized in vitro corresponding to the cloned cDNA into Xenopus laevis oocytes resulted in the synthesis of a protein that specifically binds Mu-IFN-gamma. Analysis of murine genomic and RNA blots with the cDNA probe indicates the presence of a single gene and a single mRNA species of about 2300 bases. Sequence analysis of the cDNA encoding the Mu-IFN-gamma R and comparison with the corresponding human IFN-gamma R sequence shows about 68% conservation of the extracellular domains and 51% conservation of the cytoplasmic domains at the nucleotide level. The results indicate that, as expected, the sequence of the receptor confers species specificity for the binding of IFN-gamma to the cell surface receptor. Moreover, it was previously shown that a human factor is required in addition to the receptor for the human IFN-gamma to function in hamster or mouse cells (Jung, V., Rashidbaigi, A., Jones, C., Tischfield, J.A., Shows, T.B., and Pestka, S. (1987) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 84, 4151-4155). These results suggest an explanation for the second species-specific event required for function of the human receptor in mouse or hamster cells in that the intracellular domains are significantly different and thus cannot interact with the corresponding heterologous factor. PMID- 2530217 TI - Analysis of the role of glycosylation of the human fibronectin receptor. AB - 1-Deoxymannojirimycin (MNJ), an inhibitor of Golgi alpha-mannosidase IA and IB, was used to assess the possible roles of asparagine-linked oligosaccharides in the structure and function of the integrin fibronectin receptor from cultured human fibroblasts. These cells normally attach well to fibronectin substrates and have only mature forms of the fibronectin receptor on their surfaces. MNJ inhibits the intracellular trimming of high mannose oligosaccharides, and cells treated with 0.2 mg/ml MNJ synthesize only immature precursor forms of both the alpha and beta subunits of the fibronectin receptor. The immature receptor polypeptides were found to be nonfunctional by two criteria: 1) cells treated with MNJ attached poorly to fibronectin substrates; and 2) receptor from the treated cells was defective in binding to fibronectin affinity columns. The precursor forms of the fibronectin receptor subunits were found on the surfaces of cells treated with MNJ, demonstrating that processing of receptor carbohydrates to mature forms was not necessary for receptor insertion into the plasma membrane. A monoclonal antibody that specifically bound the alpha subunit of the fibronectin receptor immunoprecipitated both alpha and beta subunit polypeptides from both control cells and cells treated with MNJ. Similarly, a monoclonal antibody that specifically bound only the beta subunit also immunoprecipitated both alpha and beta subunit polypeptides of the receptor from extracts of both control and MNJ-treated cells. These results indicate that receptor assembly can occur in the absence of complete oligosaccharide processing. Thus, oligosaccharide processing to the mature form of the fibronectin receptor is important for its binding function but not for receptor assembly or insertion into the plasma membrane. PMID- 2530218 TI - Phospholipid-stimulated protein kinase in plants. AB - In membrane fractions from zucchini (Cucurbita pepo L.) hypocotyls, catalytic properties of a platelet-activating factor (PAF)-activated protein kinase were investigated. In the presence of [ethylenebis(oxyethylenenitrilo)]tetraacetic acid, phosphorylation of a 55-kDa membrane polypeptide and, to a lesser extent, several others, including a 120-kDa polypeptide, was stimulated by PAF. The phosphorylation of the 55-kDa polypeptide was used for quantification of the PAF stimulated protein kinase. Stimulation of protein phosphorylation by PAF increased in a concentration range from 10-200 micrograms/ml (= 19-380 microM) PAF up to 10-fold above the control. Addition of Ca2+ ions in the micromolar range in the presence and in the absence of PAF increased the phosphorylation of the 55- and the 120-kDa polypeptide. Other phospholipids and lipids tested including phorbol ester, diglyceride, mono- and triglyceride, and oleic acid were ineffective. The same lipid specificity was previously observed for the activation of ATP-dependent H+ transport in microsomes (Scherer, G.F.E., Martiny Baron, G., and Stoffel, B. (1988) Planta 175, 241-253). Lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) and lysophosphatidylethanolamine (LPE) were able to stimulate the phosphorylation of the same polypeptides as PAF and H+ transport but both to a lesser extent (PAF greater than LPC greater than LPE). In the presence of EGTA, PAF-stimulated phosphorylation of a 55- and a 57-kDa polypeptide was predominantly associated with vacuolar membranes and those of 42, 61, 63, and 120 kDa were predominantly associated with plasma membranes. Stimulation of ATP dependent H+ transport by PAF was found in tonoplast vesicles whereas plasma membrane vesicles had only little transport activity and, therefore, an effect of PAF on plasma membrane H+ transport could not be measured. Stimulation of ATP hydrolysis by PAF was observed both in tonoplast- and plasma membrane-containing fractions. PMID- 2530219 TI - Characterization of the interaction between calpactin I and fodrin (non-erythroid spectrin). AB - Calpactin I, a calcium-binding protein associated with the membrane cytoskeleton, has been reported to bind to a calcium-dependent manner to fodrin, to certain phospholipids, and to F-actin. We have investigated the interaction between calpactin I and fodrin. Using a gel filtration assay, we observed one or more calpactin I molecules were bound calcium-dependently only at high concentrations of calpactin (greater than 1 microM), indicating that the interaction is of only moderate affinity. At higher concentrations of calpactin I, the calpactin coprecipitated with fodrin in a calcium-dependent manner. The molar ratio of calpactin to fodrin tetramer in the precipitate was greater than 25:1, indicating that the calpactin binds to a large number of sites. Moreover, the monomeric form of calpactin I (p36), which did not induce precipitation of fodrin, showed no evidence of saturation in its binding to fodrin even when more than 30 mol of p36 were bound per mole of fodrin tetramer. Several proteins other than fodrin, including clathrin, alpha-actinin, and neurofilament-H, also interacted calcium dependently with calpactin I in the gel filtration assay. These results demonstrate that the interaction between calpactin and fodrin is not of high affinity, is not readily saturated, and is not specific for fodrin. Our results suggest that calpactin's interaction with fodrin is a particular example of a calcium-dependent, but promiscuous, binding of calpactin to proteins. PMID- 2530220 TI - A novel peptide inhibitor of the myosin ATPase from an Okinawan marine sponge. AB - A substance which inhibits the myosin ATPase has been detected from an Okinawan marine sponge. The inhibitor has been isolated from the methanol-soluble extract of the sponge by gel filtration and hydrophobic chromatography. The isolated inhibitor is an amphipathic peptide, which is rich in Asp, Glu, Ser, and Gly, and devoid of Met and Trp. The molecular weight of the peptide is about 6300 as determined by gel filtration, amino acid analysis, and sodium dodecyl sulfate-gel electrophoresis. The peptide is a potent inhibitor not only for the K+-, Ca2+-, and Mg2+-ATPases of myosin, its subfragment-1, and actomyosin, but also for superprecipitation of actomyosin, inhibiting them completely in the range of 10 400 ng/ml. The peptide inhibitor may provide a useful tool to elucidate the structure-function relationship of the myosin ATPase. PMID- 2530221 TI - Nucleotide-induced specific fluorescent labeling of the 23-kDa NH2-terminal tryptic peptide of myosin ATPase by the serine-reactive reagent 9 anthroylnitrile. AB - The fluorescent reagent 9-anthroylnitrile (ANN) reacted preferentially with serine among various amino acids tested. When the myosin subfragment-1 (S-1) was incubated with ANN, the 9-anthroyl (AN) group was covalently incorporated into the S-1 heavy chain. The incorporation of the AN group was enhanced by the presence of ATP and ADP. In the presence of ATP, 0.98 mol of the AN group was maximally incorporated into S-1. The resulting S-1 derivative exhibited four absorption maxima in the range of 300-400 nm and fluoresced strongly with an emission maximum at 462 nm upon excitation at 390 nm. The spectral properties were similar to those of the AN-derivatives of serine and polyserine. When 0.98 mol of the AN group was incorporated into S-1, the K+- and Ca2+-ATPase activities decreased to 30%, while the Mg2+-ATPase activity increased to 220% of the original value. Tryptic digestion of the labeled S-1 revealed that the AN group was attached only to the NH2-terminal 23-kDa tryptic peptide of the S-1 heavy chain. Neither the 20-nor the 50-kDa peptide was labeled with ANN. The results suggest that a serine residue, which becomes more reactive in the presence of the nucleotide, is located in the 23-kDa tryptic peptide of S-1. PMID- 2530222 TI - H+-translocating ATPase in Golgi apparatus. Characterization as vacuolar H+ ATPase and its subunit structures. AB - Golgi apparatus was prepared from rat liver, and enzymatic properties and the subunit structure of the H+-ATPase were characterized. GTP (and also ITP) was found to drive H+-transport with about 20% of the initial velocity as that of ATP. Bafilomycin, a specific inhibitor for vacuolar H+-ATPase, inhibited the activity at 2.5 nM. The H+-ATPase was completely inhibited in the cold in the presence of MgATP (5 mM) and NaNO3 (0.1 M). The cold inactivation of the H+ ATPase resulted in release of a set of polypeptides from Golgi membrane, with molecular masses almost identical to that of the hydrophilic sector of chromaffin granule H+-ATPase (72, 57, 41, 34, and 33 kDa). Three of these polypeptides (72, 57, and 34 kDa), cross-reacted with antibodies against the corresponding subunits of the chromaffin granule H+-ATPase. A counterpart of the 39-kDa hydrophobic component of chromaffin granule H+-ATPase was identified in the membrane, but no 115-kDa component was found. Hence, the Golgi H+-ATPase shows typical features of vacuolar H+-ATPase, in relatively low substrate specificity, its response to inhibitors, inactivation by cold treatment in the presence of MgATP, and subunit composition judged by antibody cross-reactivity. PMID- 2530223 TI - Molecular cloning of a third isoform of the calmodulin-sensitive plasma membrane Ca2+-transporting ATPase that is expressed predominantly in brain and skeletal muscle. AB - A complementary DNA for a third isoform of the calmodulin-sensitive plasma membrane Ca-ATPase has been isolated from a rat brain cDNA library. The nucleotide sequence of the 5.1-kilobase pair cDNA has been determined, and the amino acid sequence of the protein, designated PMCA3, has been deduced. PMCA3 is 1159 amino acids in length and has an Mr of 127,300. It exhibits 81% and 85% amino acid identity, respectively, to isoforms 1 and 2 (PMCA1 and PMCA2) of the plasma membrane Ca-ATPase. The transcript encoding PMCA3 is similar to that of PMCA1 in that it contains a sequence in the 3'-untranslated region that has the potential to encode an alternative calmodulin binding domain and carboxyl terminus. The tissue distribution of mRNAs encoding isoforms 1, 2, and 3 has been determined by Northern blot hybridization analyses. PMCA1 mRNAs are expressed in all tissues examined, suggesting that this protein may serve as a housekeeping form of the enzyme. However, PMCA2 and PMCA3 mRNAs exhibit a high degree of tissue specificity. PMCA2 mRNAs are expressed predominantly in brain and heart, whereas PMCA3 mRNAs are expressed predominantly in brain and skeletal muscle. PMID- 2530224 TI - Molecular heterogeneity of pro-atrial natriuretic factor. AB - Analysis by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and Western blotting of the atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) content of atrial granules revealed the presence of at least 15 immunoreactive spots whose molecular mass distribution ranged from 16.8 to 35 kDa and their pI values from 5.12 to 5.98. About 90% of the immunoreactive ANF material was contained within four spots (spot 1: 34.8 kDa, pI 5.67; spot 5: 16.8 kDa, pI 5.50; spot 6: 16.8 kDa, pI 5.67; spot 7: 16.8 kDa, pI 5.98). Investigation of the molecular nature of spot 1 indicated that it is a dimer of pro-ANF since it possesses the same immunoreactivity, the same charge, double its mass, and can be converted with dithiothreitol into a 16.8-kDa pro-ANF form. Alkaline phosphatase and protein kinase A treatments indicated that spots 5, 6, and 7 are probably not phosphorylated forms of pro-ANF. Carboxypeptide A and B treatments in conjunction with amino acid analysis suggested that spot 7 is ANF-(1-128); spot 6, the major one, ANF-(1-126); and spot 5, ANF-(1-123) or ANF (1-124). Water deprivation or morphine injection, two maneuvers which are known to influence ANF secretion and atrial ANF content, failed to affect the molecular heterogeneity of pro-ANF except for spot 1. The formation of the dimer appeared to be time-dependent. These results emphasize the heterogeneity of the pro-ANF molecule stored in atrial granules. We suggest that this heterogeneity may be due, in part, to the action of some proteases, such as carboxypeptidase E or a tripeptidyl carboxyhydrolase. PMID- 2530225 TI - Phosphorylation of the major leukocyte surface sialoglycoprotein, leukosialin, is increased by phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate. AB - Leukosialin (CD43) is a heavily O-glycosylated membrane glycoprotein present on all leukocytes and on platelets. We found that leukosialin is phosphorylated in erythroid, myeloid, and T-lymphoid cell lines, as well as in platelets and peripheral blood lymphocytes. Leukosialin phosphorylation was increased 2.5-15 fold following phorbol ester treatment. The phosphorylation could be inhibited with the protein kinase C inhibitor staurosporine but not with HA 1004 that inhibits cAMP- or cGMP-dependent protein kinases. The phosphoamino acid analysis showed that serine residues were exclusively phosphorylated, either with or without phorbol ester treatment. Two-dimensional peptide maps of phosphorylated leukosialin from K562 and Jurkat cells gave almost identical patterns. The number of labeled peptides increased after treatment with phorbol ester, indicating that new sites were phosphorylated. The major phosphorylation site on leukosialin was identified as Ser-332 in a region of the cytoplasmic domain located 73 amino acids from the transmembrane portion. PMID- 2530226 TI - How does a calcium pump pump calcium? PMID- 2530227 TI - Thyroid hormone-mediated transcriptional activation of the rat liver malic enzyme gene by dehydroepiandrosterone. AB - Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a naturally occurring steroid secreted from the adrenal, has been reported to decrease the body weight gain in rodents without suppressing food intake and to stimulate malic enzyme activity in liver (Tepperman, H. M., de la Garza, S. A., and Tepperman, J. (1968) Am. J. Physiol. 214, 1126-1132). Herrin, we demonstrate that DHEA induces hepatic malic enzyme activity by increasing the rate of transcription of the malic enzyme gene. This transcriptional activation of the malic enzyme gene is dose dependent, i.e. the treatment of euthyroid male rats with daily doses of 17.5 and 35 mg of DHEA/100 g of body weight for 7 days elevated the rate of malic enzyme gene transcription in liver above the basal levels 4-5- and 8-9-fold, respectively. The levels of nuclear malic enzyme RNA, cytoplasmic malic enzyme mRNA, and enzyme activity were increased correspondingly. Malic enzyme stimulation by DHEA was liver specific, i.e. malic enzyme activity in brain, heart, kidney, and testis was unchanged. Thyroid hormone is required for the induction of hepatic malic enzyme activity by DHEA since in hypothyroid animals, DHEA was without effect. However, stimulatory effects of thyroid hormone and DHEA on malic enzyme expression are additive in euthyroid rat livers at both levels of gene transcription and enzyme activity. PMID- 2530228 TI - Inhibition of pre-mRNA splicing by 5-fluoro-, 5-chloro-, and 5-bromouridine. AB - Pre-mRNA transcripts of the human beta-globin gene containing 5-fluoro-, 5-chloro , and 5-bromouridine were tested for splicing in vitro. Pre-mRNA containing 5 fluorouridine was spliced accurately and efficiently in the nuclear extract from HeLa cells, whereas 5-chloro-, and 5-bromouridine containing transcripts were not spliced. Analysis of the splicing reactions by electrophoresis on nondenaturing polyacrylamide gels showed that the latter two transcripts were unable to form active splicing complexes. Treatment of HeLa cell cultures with 5-fluorouridine decreased the splicing activity of the nuclear extracts in a dose- and time dependent fashion. The decrease in splicing activity of these extracts appears to be due in part to a decreased level of U-2 small nuclear RNA and the corresponding ribonucleoprotein particle, U2-snRNP. PMID- 2530229 TI - Purification and characterization of a third isoform of myosin I from Acanthamoeba castellanii. AB - A third isoform of myosin I has been isolated from Acanthamoeba and designated myosin IC. Peptide maps and immunoassays indicate that myosin IC is not a modified form of myosin IA, IB, or II. However, myosin IC has most of the distinctive properties of a myosin I. It is a globular protein of native Mr approximately 162,000, apparently composed of a single 130-kDa heavy chain and a pair of 14-kDa light chains. It is soluble in MgATP at low ionic strength, conditions favoring filament assembly by myosin II. Myosin IC has high Ca2+- and (K+,EDTA)-ATPase activities. Its low Mg2+-ATPase activity is stimulated to a maximum rate of 20 s-1 by the addition of F-actin if its heavy chain has been phosphorylated by myosin I heavy chain kinase. The dependence of the Mg2+-ATPase activity of myosin IC on F-actin concentration is triphasic; and, at fixed concentrations of F-action, this activity increases cooperatively as the concentration of myosin IC is increased. These unusual kinetics were first demonstrated for myosins IA and IB and shown to be due to the presence of two actin-binding sites on each heavy chain which enable those myosins I to cross link actin filaments. Myosin IC is also capable of cross-linking F-actin, which, together with the kinetics of its actin-activated Mg2+-ATPase activity, suggests that it, like myosins IA and IB, possesses two independent actin-binding domains. PMID- 2530230 TI - The localization and sequence of the phosphorylation sites of Acanthamoeba myosins I. An improved method for locating the phosphorylated amino acid. AB - The actin-activated Mg2+-ATPase activities of Acanthamoeba myosins IA, IB, and IC are expressed only when a single site in their heavy chains is phosphorylated by a myosin I heavy chain-specific kinase. We show that phosphorylation occurs at Ser-315 in the myosin IB heavy chain, Ser-311 in myosin IC, and a threonine residue at a corresponding position in myosin IA whose amino acid sequence is as yet unknown. The most obvious feature common to the three substrates is a basic amino acid(s) 2 or 3 residues before the site of phosphorylation. The phosphorylation site is located between the ATP- and actin-binding sites, which corresponds to the middle of the 50-kDa domain of skeletal muscle myosin subfragment 1. The sequence similarity between the region surrounding the phosphorylation site of myosin I and subfragment 1 is much lower than the average sequence similarity between myosin I and subfragment 1. This is consistent with the hypothesis that the conformation of this region of myosin I differs from that of the corresponding region in skeletal muscle myosin and that phosphorylation converts the conformation of the actomyosin I complex into a conformation comparable to that present in actosubfragment 1 without phosphorylation. The protein sequences obtained in the course of this work led to the conclusion that the myosin I genes previously identified as myosin IB and IL (myosin-like) heavy chains actually are the myosin IC and IB heavy chains, respectively. Finally, we report a modification of the method for monitoring the appearance of 32Pi during sequencing of 32P-labeled peptides that results in almost complete recovery of the radioactivity, thus allowing unequivocal assignment of the position of the phosphorylated residue. PMID- 2530231 TI - Chest wall mechanics: effects of acute and chronic lung disease. AB - Data from the literature show that lung tissue properties affect the chest wall compliance, Ccw, which is the change in lung volume, Vl, with respect to the pleural pressure, Ppl. to analyze the difference between acute and chronic lung tissue changes, we used a mathematical model that describes the static, nonlinear mechanics of the ventilatory system in terms of its major elements: rib cage; abdomen; diaphragm and lung. With this model we derived the relationship between chest wall, rib-cage and diaphragm compliances. Although the Vl-Ppl relation is independent of lung mechanics, the volume operating point (FRC) of the ventilatory system depends on lung tissue properties. This accounts for the effect of acute lung abnormalities. In the presence of chronic lung abnormalities, the properties of the rib-cage are changed which shifts the entire Vl-Ppl curve. In general, valid comparisons of (extra-pulmonary) chest wall mechanics can only be made using the entire Vl-Ppl relation, or at least a sufficiently large part of the relation about FRC. Differentiation of the rib cage and diaphragm mechanics requires additional measurements of the rib-cage A-P distance and the relative position of the diaphragm. PMID- 2530232 TI - Variations in geometry and shear rate distribution in casts of human aortic bifurcations. AB - Shear rates measured at sites along the walls of ten casts of human aortic bifurcations are presented to provide an indication of the variability in the shear rate distribution that can occur among individuals. The geometric characteristics and flow parameters for each of the casts are also given. Much of the variability in wall shear distribution seen here results from variations in arterial geometry; variations in flow parameters can widen further the normal range of shear distributions. PMID- 2530233 TI - Enhanced adherence of human adult endothelial cells to plasma discharge modified polyethylene terephthalate. AB - Human adult aortic endothelial cell attachment to polyethyleneterephthalate (PET as mylar film) was examined in vitro. PET was examined in both the unmodified form (PET-) and in a modified form (PET+) that had undergone plasma discharge surface modification (PDSM). These surfaces were compared to unmodified tissue culture polystyrene (PS-). The kinetics of attachment and the force of attachment using the rotating disc were determined as a function of surface and substrate protein applied to the surface. Four proteins--fibronectin, collagen I/III, collagen IV/V, and laminin--were added and compared to saline pretreatment. The most significant variable affecting attachment was the time of incubation. When corrected for time, PET+ demonstrated significantly superior attachment kinetics when compared to PET- in most cases. These kinetics were similar to those seen on PS-. Fibronectin precoating of the surface greatly enhanced attachment kinetics on PET+ and PS- but to a much lesser degree on PET-. The fibronectin effect was synergistic with PDSM, suggesting that PDSM enhances protein adsorption on the surface. The force of attachment was generally independent of incubation time and surface/substrate combination except for laminin precoating. Taken together, these data indicate that human endothelial cell adherence to PET may be significantly enhanced by PDSM and surface precoating with fibronectin. Attachment occurs rapidly and, once attached, the cells demonstrate a very firm attachment force capable of resisting shear stresses up to 90 dynes/cm2. PMID- 2530234 TI - Mechanical properties of BIS-GMA resin short glass fiber composites. AB - The use of short glass fibers as a filler for dental restorations or cement resins have not been examined extensively. The mechanical properties and untreated glass fibers (5 microns dia x 25 microns) in Bis-phenol A glycidyl methacrylate (BIS-GMA) diluted with triethylene-glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) resin were investigated for possible use as a restorative dental composite or bone cement. Compression, uniaxial tension and fracture toughness tests were conducted for each filler composite mixtures of 40, 50, 60 and 70%. Set time and maximum temperature of polymerization were determined. The results show that the elastic modulus, tensile strength and compressive strength are dependent on the percent of filler content. Elastic modulus and compressive yield (0.2%) strength of silane treated glass fibers filled composite increased from 2.26 to 4.59 GPa and 43.3 to 66.6 MPa, respectively, wtih increasing the filler content while the tensile strength decreased from 26.7 to 18.6 MPa. The elastic modulus of the untreated composite was less than that of the silane treated fiber composite. The tensile strength and compressive strengths were 20 to 50% lower than those of silane treated composites. The fracture toughness of the silane treated glass fiber additions were not significantly different from the untreated additions. The highest fracture toughness was obtained at 50% filler content with 1.65 MPa m.5. Set time increased from 3.5 to 7.7 minutes with increased filler content and peak temperature dropped from 68.3 to 34 degrees C. The results of this study indicate that the addition of silane coated glass fiber to BIS-GMA resin increased the elastic modulus, tensile and compressive strengths compared with non-treated fibers. The addition of either treated or non-treated fibers increased the set time of the material and decreased the maximum temperature. PMID- 2530236 TI - Pseudointima formation in woven and knitted dacron grafts. A comparative ultrastructural analysis. AB - Twelve specially designed crimped aortobifurcated grafts (aorta, woven 200 porosity; right limb, woven 500 porosity; left limb, knitted 1200 porosity) were implanted into mongrel dogs that were sacrificed at two, six, eight and twelve month intervals. Pseudointima from the mid portion of each type of graft was studied with light (LM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). An ocular micrometer was used to determine the thickness of the pseudointima. A trilaminar cytoarchitecture resembling the wall of a medium-sized artery existed in the pseudointima. This was characterized by an inner cellular layer, outer fibrocollagenous layer, and multi-interlamination of cells and glycosaminoglycan in the middle layer. The cellular inner layer was thickest in the knitted and thinnest in the woven 200 porosity. A zone of acellularity separated the luminal cells from the underlying myoblasts and myofibroblasts. Specificity of varying types of cell distribution occurred in the pseudointima. Myoblasts and myofibroblasts were located near the lumen while fibroblasts and mesenchymoid cells were situated near the graft. The luminal cells had the combined features of endothelial cells and myofibroblasts. Collagen and glycosaminoglycans were the dominant extracellular matrix. Despite the difference of fluid permeability in high porosity woven and knitted dacron grafts, the pseudointima was well formed and revealed no striking general cytoarchitectural difference between these two types of grafts. PMID- 2530235 TI - In vitro adherence of bacteria to sutures in cardiac surgery. AB - The adherence of bacteria to sutures used in cardiac surgery was studied by in vitro quantitative determination with [3H]-leucine-labeled Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus sanguis. The adherence per unit area for staphylococci was least for monofilament polypropylene (Prolene), 3 times higher (p less than 0.05) for braided polyester (Mersiline) and greatest (10 times, p less than 0.005) for braided polyester sutures coated with polybutylate (Ethibond). Mean values for the adherence of streptococci were low for all the sutures. Sutures pretreated with human plasma showed a 12-37% increase in bacterial adherence. The cell surface hydrophobicity, surface charge and the haemagglutinating property of bacteria did not correlate with their adherence property. In view of these observations, it is suggested that: (a) the preferential adherence of staphylococci to intra-cardiac sutures may be one of the explanations for its being the commonest cause of early prosthetic valve endocarditis, (b) there is a need for a careful selection of sutures used in cardiac surgery and (c) the described in vitro assay for bacterial adherence may be used for monitoring the development of better designed sutures and the effect of incorporation of antibiotics in the sutures. PMID- 2530237 TI - Control of programmed cyclin destruction in a cell-free system. AB - To ask what controls the periodic accumulation and destruction of the mitotic across the cell cycle, we have developed a cell-free system from clam embryos that reproduces several aspects of cyclin behavior. One or more rounds of cyclin proteolysis and resynthesis occur in vitro, and the destruction of the cyclins is highly specific. The onset, duration, and extent of cyclin destruction and the appropriately stagered disappearance of cyclin A and cyclin B are correctly regulated during the first cycle in the cell-free system. Just as in intact cells, lysates made from early interphase cells require further protein synthesis to reach the cyclin destruction point, and lysates made from later stages do not. Using the cell-free system we show that cyclin disappearance requires ATP and Mg2+. By combining lysates from different cell cycle stages, we show that (a) interphase lysates do not contain a dominant inhibitor of cyclin destruction and (b) the timing of cyclin destruction is determined by the cell cycle stage of the cytoplasm rather than the cell cycle stage of the substrate cyclins themselves. Among a large variety of agents tested, only a few affect cyclin destruction. Tosyl-lysine chlormethyl ketone (TLCK, a protease inhibitor), 6 dimethylaminopurine (6-DMAP, a kinase inhibitor), certain sulfhydryl-blocking agents, ZnCl2 and EDTA (but not EGTA) completely block cyclin destruction in vitro. Addition of 1 mM Ca2+ to the cell-free system has no effect on cyclin stability, but 5 mM Ca2+ leads to the rapid destruction of cyclins and a small number of other proteins. PMID- 2530238 TI - The Lec4A CHO glycosylation mutant arises from miscompartmentalization of a Golgi glycosyltransferase. AB - Two CHO glycosylation mutants that were previously shown to lack N-linked carbohydrates with GlcNAc beta 1,6Man alpha 1,6 branches, and to belong to the same genetic complementation group, are shown here to differ in the activity of N acetylglucosaminyltransferase V (GlcNAc-TV) (UDP-GlcNA: alpha 1,6mannose beta-N acetylglucosaminyltransferase V). One mutant, Lec4, has no detectable GlcNAc-TV activity whereas the other, now termed Lec4A, has activity equivalent to that of parental CHO in detergent cell extracts. However, Lec4A GlcNAc-TV can be distinguished from CHO GlcNAc-TV on the basis of its increased sensitivity to heat inactivation and its altered subcellular compartmentalization. Sucrose density gradient fractionation shows that the major portion of GlcNAc-TV from Lec4A cells cofractionates with membranes of the ER instead of Golgi membranes where GlcNAc-TV is localized in parental CHO cells. Other experiments show that Lec4A GlcNAc-TV is not concentrated in lysosomes, or in a post-Golgi compartment, or at the cell surface. The altered localization in Lec4A cells is specific for GlcNAc-TV because two other Lec4A Golgi transferases cofractionate at the density of Golgi membranes. The combined data suggest that both lec4 and lec4A mutations affect the structural gene for GlcNAc-TV, causing either the loss of GlcNAc-TV activity (lec4) or its miscompartmentalization (lec4A). The identification of the Lec4A defect indicates that appropriate screening of different glycosylation defective mutants should enable the isolation of other mammalian cell trafficking mutants. PMID- 2530240 TI - Vasopressin rapidly stimulates protein kinase C in digitonin-permeabilized Swiss 3T3 cells: involvement of a pertussis toxin-insensitive guanine nucleotide binding protein. AB - Guanine nucleotides and pertussis toxin were used to test for the involvement of a guanine nucleotide binding protein in the vasopressin V1 receptor-mediated stimulation of protein kinase C activity in Swiss 3T3 cells. Addition of vasopressin in the presence of [gamma-32P]ATP and digitonin caused a marked and rapid increase (8 +/- 1-fold after 1 min) in the phosphorylation of an Mr = 80,000 cellular protein (80K), a specific marker for protein kinase C activation. This phosphorylation was selectively blocked by the V1 receptor antagonist Pmp1-0 Me-Tyr2 [Arg8] vasopressin, indicating that the effect was mediated through the vasopressin V1 receptor. Down regulation of protein kinase C by prior prolonged pretreatment of intact cells with phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate (PBt2) blocked the ability of vasopressin to stimulate the phosphorylation of 80K in digitonin permeabilized cells. Addition of a submaximal concentration of vasopressin together with the GTP analogue GTP-gamma-S caused a synergistic stimulation of 80K phosphorylation. The GDP analogue GDP-beta-S caused a 50% inhibition of the phosphorylation of 80K induced by a saturating concentration of vasopressin and shifted the vasopressin dose-response curve to the right. GDP-beta-S had no effect on the dose-response for the stimulation of 80K phosphorylation induced by PBt2. Prior incubation of intact quiescent cultures of Swiss 3T3 cells with pertussis toxin did not impair either vasopressin-induced increase in cytosolic [Ca2+] or activation of protein kinase C. These findings provide functional evidence for the involvement of a pertussis toxin-insesitive G protein in the vasopressin V1 receptor-mediated stimulation of protein kinase C in Swiss 3T3 cells. PMID- 2530241 TI - Lipocortin I (p35) is abundant in a restricted number of differentiated cell types in adult organs. AB - Lipocortin-I (p35) is a unique calcium- and phospholipid-binding protein of the lipocortin/calpactin family. Although several possibilities have been suggested, functions for the individual proteins of this family are not yet known with certainty. As an initial step in the identification of the biological function(s) of p35, we have used immunohistochemical methods to define precisely many of the cellular phenotypes that contain p35 in vivo. In all organs where p35 is found, we have observed a striking distribution of p35-positive cells. Typically it is highly enriched in a limited range of differentiated cell types while apparently totally absent from most others. Our identification of specific p35-positive cell types in vivo will now set limitations on likely possibilities for functions of this protein and thereby permit a more logical approach to the determination of its true function. PMID- 2530239 TI - Endothelial cells use alpha 2 beta 1 integrin as a laminin receptor. AB - Human umbilical vein endothelial cells attach and spread on laminin-coated substrates. Affinity chromatography was used to identify the attachment receptor. Fractionation of extracts from surface-iodinated endothelial cells on human laminin-Sepharose yielded a heterodimeric complex, the subunits of which migrated with molecular sizes corresponding to 160/120 kD and 160/140 kD under nonreducing and reducing conditions, respectively. The purified receptor bound to laminin and slightly less to fibronectin and type IV collagen in a radioreceptor assay. This endothelial cell laminin receptor was classified as an alpha 2 beta 1 integrin because monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies directed against the alpha 2 and bet 1 subunits immunoprecipitated the receptor. Cytofluorometric analysis and immunoprecipitation showed that the alpha 2 subunit is an abundant integrin alpha subunit in the endothelial cells and that the alpha subunits associated with laminin binding in other types of cells are expressed in these cells only at low levels. The alpha 2 beta 1 integrin appears to be a major receptor for laminin in the endothelial cells, because an anti-alpha 2 monoclonal antibody inhibited the attachment of the endothelial cells to human laminin. These results define a new role for the alpha 2 subunit in laminin binding and suggest that the ligand specificity of the alpha 2 beta 1 integrin, which is known as a collagen receptor in other types of cells, can be modulated by cell type-specific factors to include laminin binding. PMID- 2530242 TI - Purification, characterization, and localization of 70 kDa calcium-sensitive protein (calelectrin) from mammary glands. AB - Mammary glands contain a group of calcium-sensitive proteins that bind to membranes in a calcium-dependent manner. Using the calcium-dependent binding to hydrophobic surfaces in combination with conventional techniques, we have purified the 70 kDa mammary calcium-binding protein (70 kDa M-CBP) to homogeneity. Antisera prepared to the 70 kDa M-CBP or to bovine liver 67 kDa calelectrin reacted in immunoblot analysis with the 70 kDa M-CBP antigen and with several additional mammary CBP species in crude tissue homogenates. Limited proteolysis of the 70 kDa M-CBP produced smaller immunoreactive species; extensive proteolysis resulted in more complete degradation of the protein. Identical data were obtained with digestion of 67 kDa calelectrin. The pl for the 70 kDa M-CBP was determined to be approximately 5.8; the same value reported for 67 kDa calelectrin. Phosphorylation of 70 kDa M-CBP was not detected in epithelial cell culture metabolic labeling. Immunohistochemical localization showed the protein to be located in ductal epithelia of virgin mouse mammary glands with a pattern of increased staining of the basal portions of the cells. Some stromal cells were also reactive. Apparently, the 70 kDa M-CBP and 67 kDa calelectrin are the same protein. Furthermore, like the 32.5 calelectrin (endonexin) and calpactin I/p36/lipocortin II, the 70 kDa protein appears to be a ductal epithelial cell associated protein in the mammary gland. PMID- 2530243 TI - Inhibition of epidermal growth factor/transforming growth factor-alpha-stimulated cell growth by a synthetic peptide. AB - Estrogen-stimulated growth of the human mammary adenocarcinoma cell line MCF-7 is significantly inhibited by monoclonal antibodies to the epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor that act as antagonists of EGF's mitogenic events by competing for high-affinity EGF receptor binding sites. These antibodies likewise inhibit the EGF or transforming growth factor-alpha (TGF-alpha)-stimulated growth of these MCF-7 cells. An analogous pattern of specific EGF or TGF-alpha growth inhibitory activity was obtained using a synthetic peptide analog encompassing the third disulfide loop region of TGF-alpha, but containing additional modifications designed for increased membrane affinity [( Ac-D-hArg(Et)2(31),Gly32,33]HuTGF alpha(31-43)NH2). The growth factor antagonism by this synthetic peptide was specific in that it inhibited EGF, TGF-alpha, or estrogen-stimulated growth of MCF-7 cells but did not inhibit insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1)-stimulated cell growth. Altogether, these results suggest that a significant portion of the estrogen-stimulated growth of these MCF-7 cells is mediated in an autocrine/paracrine manner by release of EGF or TGF-alpha-like growth factors. The TGF-alpha peptide likewise inhibited EGF- but not fibroblast growth factor (FGF)- or platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-stimulated growth of NIH-3T3 cells in completely defined media; but had no effect on growth or DNA synthesis of G0-arrested cells, nor did it effect growth of NR-6 cells, which are nonresponsive to EGF. Although this synthetic peptide did not directly compete with EGF for cell surface receptor binding, it exhibited binding to a cell surface component (followed by internalization), which likewise was not competed by EGF. The peptide did not directly inhibit EGF-stimulated phosphorylation of the EGF receptor, nor did it inhibit phosphorylation of an exogenous substrate, angiotensin II, by activated EGF receptor. The TGF-alpha peptide did, however, affect the structure of laminin as manifested by laminin self-aggregation; this affect on laminin may, in turn, have a modulatory effect on EGF-mediated cell growth. PMID- 2530244 TI - [Prevention of abscess of the abdominal wall by continuous antisepsis, combined with antibiotherapy. 4751 cases]. AB - The reduced incidence of wall abscesses following routine general surgery was studied in 4751 cases over the period from 1973 to 1987. The therapeutical evolution spanned over three consecutive treatment periods, each one falling into one patient group. The reference period (Group I) extended from 1973 to 1978. Starting from 1978 and up till 1984 (Group 2), systematic repeated lavage of the operative field with an iodized polyvinylpyrrolidone solution were carried out, providing thus for true continuous antisepsis (CA). Starting from 1985 (Group 3), the method of continuous antisepsis was associated with systematic prophylactic antibiotherapy (SPAB). Groups 1, 2 and 3 included 2051, 1955 and 745 cases, respectively, and presented progressively decreasing rates of abscess formation (4%, 2.5%, 1.7%, respectively). In order to better assess these results, an in depth analysis was carried out on two types of surgical operations, i.e., appendicitis and gynecological surgery, based on Altemeier's classification. The rate of abscess formation was lowered. This result is particularly interesting from the point of view of gynecological surgery, inasmuch as a relative increase in the frequency of the more esthetic horizontal incisions is being concurrently noted. PMID- 2530245 TI - Remembering Kant's Konigsberg. PMID- 2530246 TI - An atypical hypersensitivity reaction. PMID- 2530247 TI - Chronic progressive multiple sclerosis: changes in phenotype and function of T helper subsets. AB - We have measured pokeweed mitogen-induced IgG secretion by peripheral blood mononuclear cells obtained from two different groups of progressive multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. MS patients with chronic progressive active disease (CPMS-A) have higher IgG secretion than stable (burnt-out) patients (CPMS-S). We have also measured suppressor cell function and phenotyped the T helper cells of some CPMS-A patients. This group differed from CPMS-S and from controls: they had high IgG secretion, low suppression and their T helper phenotypes showed a high ratio of T helper/inducers over T suppressor/inducers. PMID- 2530248 TI - Biochemical basis of synergy between antigen and T-helper (Th) cell-mediated activation of resting human B cells. AB - We have utilized CD23 expression as a marker for B cell activation in order to investigate the biochemical basis for synergy between antigen and T helper (Th) cells in the activation of resting human B cells. Our results confirm that while ligation of surface immunoglobulin (sIg) receptors by antigen analogues (e.g., F(ab')2 goat anti-human IgM) does not lead to CD23 expression, this stimulus markedly enhances CD23 expression induced during antigen specific Th-B cell interaction or by rIL-4. Utilizing a panel of monoclonal anti-human IgM antibodies, we observed a positive correlation between the capacity of a particular antibody to synergize with rIL-4 in CD23 expression and with B cell growth factor in B cell proliferation; suggesting that synergy in CD23 expression reflects the transduction of a functionally important signal via the sIg receptor. We next assayed analogues of the "second messenger" molecules, released during inositol lipid hydrolysis, for their capacity to amplify CD23 expression. These studies showed that protein kinase C (PKC) activating phorbol esters and the synthetic diacylgylcerol analogue, DiC8, synergize with either Th cells or rIL-4 in CD23 expression, while under no experimental condition does increasing B cell [Ca2+]i with ionomycin enhance CD23 expression. Taken together, these data suggest that activation of B cell PKC is the crucial biochemical event that primes antigen-activated B cells to respond more vigorously to interaction with Th cells and/or their soluble products. PMID- 2530249 TI - Sulfated beef insulin treatment elicits CD8+ T cells that may abrogate immunologic insulin resistance in type I diabetes. AB - The in vitro responses of T cells from 13 insulin-nonresistant and 1 immunologically insulin-resistant (IIR) type I diabetes patients to sulfated beef insulin (SBI) were analyzed. Insulin A-loop specific CD4+ T cells from these patients did not respond to SBI. After 1 yr of treatment with SBI the IIR patient's T cell and antibody responses to beef, pork, and human insulin progressed from very high to nondetectable levels. This occurred in parallel to the appearance of her insulin-specific CD8+ T cells, which inhibited the response of her A-loop-specific CD4+ T cells to insulin. A transient increase in her CD8+ anti-insulin antibody activity coincided with a relative lack of her CD8+ T cell activity. CD8+ T cells that regulate T cell responsiveness to insulin are probably present but difficult to detect in most type I diabetes patients. These T cells were identified in only 2 of 13 insulin-nonresistant patients who presented with lipoatrophy and insulin allergy, respectively, and who possessed high-titered, anti-insulin antibodies. Our data demonstrate that CD8+ T cells play an important role in controlling peripheral tolerance to insulin and may abrogate IIR in a diabetic patient treated with SBI. PMID- 2530251 TI - A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of acitretin for the treatment of psoriasis. AB - Acitretin, the active metabolite of etretinate, has the clinical advantage of a much shorter terminal elimination half-life. We report the results of a double blind, placebo-controlled trial of acitretin (Soriatane) in 15 patients with moderate to severe psoriasis. Patients received 25 mg or 50 mg daily of acitretin or placebo in a double-blind fashion for 8 weeks and then were given 25 to 75 mg acitretin daily during an open study. Only two placebo patients completed the double-blind phase; one patient's psoriasis worsened, and one showed no significant change. All 15 patients then completed at least 8 weeks with 25 to 75 mg acitretin daily, with a moderate change in erythema, scaling, and induration (mean 28% to 37% improvement) but with minimal change in the percentage of body surface area involved. Prolonged treatment (greater than or equal to 20 weeks) with acitretin resulted in further significant improvement and a 44% reduction of involved surface area from baseline. PMID- 2530250 TI - Localization of L-glutamic acid decarboxylase mRNA in monkey and human retina by in situ hybridization. AB - Immunocytochemical studies with gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) antibodies and glutamic acid decarboxylase antibodies have shown that the primate retina contains GABAergic amacrine, interplexiform, and displaced amacrine cells. In addition, subpopulations of photoreceptors and horizontal cells have also been suggested to be GABAergic in this retina. In the present study, we have used in situ hybridization to localize GABAergic neurons in human and monkey retinas. In situ hybridizations were carried out with 35S-labeled DNA and RNA probes derived from human and cat glutamic acid decarboxylase cDNA clones. In the monkey retina, labeled cells were present in the inner nuclear and ganglion cells layers. The outer nuclear layer or the inner segment layer had only background levels of labeling. In the inner nuclear layer, all labeled somata were located in the vitread-half bordering the inner nuclear layer/inner plexiform layer boundary. These cells constituted approximately 83% of all labeled cells. Labeled cells were also seen in the ganglion cell layer. In the human retina, labeled somata were observed only in the inner nuclear and the ganglion cell layers. In the inner nuclear layer, the majority of labeled cells were located close to the inner nuclear layer/inner plexiform layer boundary although a minor population of labeled somata (approximately 20%) were found deeper in the inner nuclear layer. The distribution of glutamic acid decarboxylase mRNA-containing cells we observed is in good agreement with the known location of GABAergic neurons. We, however, did not find glutamic acid decarboxylase mRNA in either horizontal cells or photoreceptors in monkey and human retina. PMID- 2530252 TI - Eczema-like, erythematous, infiltrated plaques: a common side effect of subcutaneous heparin therapy. AB - Erythematous, infiltrated plaques appear to be a common but neglected cutaneous reaction to heparin. Erythematous, infiltrated plaques are unrelated to heparin necrosis and sometimes closely mimic contact dermatitis. We report 15 patients (14 women and 1 man, the first to be reported in the literature) in whom erythematous, infiltrated plaques developed 3 to 21 days after commencement of subcutaneous heparin therapy. The clinical appearance, routine histopathologic and immunohistopathologic findings, and results of various skin tests provided circumstantial evidence for the presence of a delayed hypersensitivity reaction. Subcutaneous provocation tests proved superior to intracutaneous or epicutaneous tests for the diagnosis of erythematous, infiltrated plaques. Erythematous, infiltrated plaques were caused by heparin constituents in all female patients, whereas chlorocresol was implicated as the cause in the only man. PMID- 2530253 TI - Erythrodermic psoriasis. Precipitating factors, course, and prognosis in 50 patients. AB - Erythroderma represents the most severe form of psoriasis. In addition to its morbidity and severe discomfort, erythrodermic psoriasis also may be potentially life-threatening. We present demographic, clinical, and laboratory findings of 50 patients with psoriatic erythroderma seen at our day-care center during a 9 1/2 year period. Precipitating factors included administration of systemic corticosteroids and the excessive use of topical steroids, phototherapy complications, severe emotional stress, and preceding illness. Treatment options are discussed on the basis of an average follow-up period of 34 months. There appears to be a certain subgroup of patients with highly unstable psoriasis for whom appropriately planned therapeutic regimens are essential. PMID- 2530254 TI - Malignant mesothelioma: diagnosis by skin biopsy. AB - We report a case of malignant mesothelioma in which the tissue diagnosis was established by examination of a skin biopsy specimen. We also review the cutaneous manifestations of malignant mesothelioma. To our knowledge this is only the second reported case diagnosed primarily by examination of tissue from the skin. PMID- 2530255 TI - Unusual presentation of porokeratosis palmaris, plantaris et disseminata. AB - Porokeratosis plantaris, palmaris et disseminata is an autosomal dominant genodermatosis characterized by multiple lesions on the palms and soles, and later on other areas, both sun-exposed and non-sun-exposed. We report a 66-year old man with porokeratosis plantaris, palmaris et disseminata whose disease had an unusual evolution. To our knowledge this is the first case of the disease in which the lesions first appeared on the trunk and extremities and later involved the palms and soles. PMID- 2530256 TI - Pulpotomy medicaments for vital primary teeth. Surveys to determine use and attitudes in pediatric dental practice and in dental schools throughout the world. AB - Surveys were sent to all Canadian pediatric dental specialists and to Heads of Departments of Pediatric Dentistry of selected dental schools throughout the world, in order to determine the use of and attitudes toward pulpal techniques on vital primary teeth. The preferred pulpotomy medicament of Canadian pediatric dental specialists was the 1:5 formocresol dilution, which was used by 50 percent of the respondents. The second most prevalent medicament was full-strength formocresol, used by 42.2 percent of respondents. The most prevalent medicament utilized in pediatric dental departments of dental schools was full-strength formocresol (40.8 percent) followed in popularity by the 1:5 formocresol dilution (36 percent). Scandinavia was the only geographic region to deviate from formocresol as the preferred pulpotomy medicament. Seventy percent (70 percent) of the pediatric dental departments in Scandinavia preferred calcium hydroxide for pulpotomies. Although 50 percent of the pediatric dental specialists and 55.2 percent of pediatric dental departments expressed concern about harmful effects of the preferred pulpotomy medicament, only 21.2 percent of the dentists and 29.6 percent of the schools were contemplating a change to another material. Because of its long history and lasting popularity, formocresol has been the most widely studied of the many pulpotomy medicaments. Although other techniques have been proposed and studied, the vast majority of pediatric dental practitioners in Canada (92.4 percent) and dental schools worldwide (76.8 percent) utilize either the full-strength or the 1:5 dilution of formocresol as the preferred pulpotomy medicament for vital primary teeth.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530257 TI - Cotton roll isolation versus Vac-Ejector isolation. AB - A visible-light-cured, white pit-and-fissure sealant was applied to 523 teeth in school children using either cotton rolls or a VacEjector for isolation. After a minimum of six months, the patients were recalled and the retention of the sealants was evaluated. No significant difference in sealant retention was found between the two isolation methods. PMID- 2530258 TI - 1980-1990: what a difference ten years have made in the future of pediatric dental practice. AB - A review is provided of developments in pediatric dentistry during the 1980s. In the early part of this decade, a number of factors produced a verified oversupply of pedodontists together with a declining population younger than eighteen years of age. Decreases in dental caries became widespread. Now, a decade later the increase in total number of dentists is slowing and the ratio of dentists-to population has begun to decline. PMID- 2530259 TI - Change in dental treatment needs in an urban pediatric population, 1977 to 1987. AB - Decreasing caries activity in children has adversely affected the education programs in clinical pediatric dentistry. This paper presents a program designed to facilitate the educational requirements of undergraduate dental students as it meets the dental needs of an urban pediatric population in Kansas City, MO. Changes in dental treatment needs that have occurred in this population over the past decade are evaluated. Dental records of 760 children from four urban schools were examined; data from the dental records were categorized according to the type and number of operative procedures completed. Results indicated a significant decrease in the percentage of patients requiring simple or complex amalgams from 1977 to 1987. Similar decreases were noted in other operative procedures. However, comparisons between the proportion of patients requiring multiple operative procedures indicate less changes during the ten-year period. These results suggest that there is still a percentage of patients requiring substantial dental care as a result of dental caries. PMID- 2530260 TI - Remodeling of the aorta after successful balloon coarctation angioplasty. AB - The purpose of this study was to examine whether remodeling of the aorta takes place after successful balloon angioplasty of aortic coarctation. During the 35 month period ending in December 1987, 30 children, aged 14 days to 13 years, underwent balloon angioplasty of unoperated aortic coarctation, with a resultant reduction in mean coarctation gradient from 44 +/- 20 to 10 +/- 8 mm Hg (p less than 0.001). On the basis of results of 6 to 30 months' follow-up catheterization data in 20 children, the patients were classified into group A (13 patients with good results; gradient less than or equal to 20 mm Hg and no recoarctation on angiography) and group B (7 patients with fair or poor results; gradient greater than 20 mm Hg with or without recoarctation on angiography). Measurements of the aorta at five sites (the ascending aorta, isthmus, coarcted segment and descending aorta distal to the coarctation and at the level of the diaphragm) were made in two angiographic views, corrected for magnification and averaged. A standardized diameter of the aorta at the five locations was calculated for each case before angioplasty and at follow-up study, and variance of the diameter was then determined. The variance of standardized aortic measures (0.233 versus 0.287) was similar (p greater than 0.05) in both groups before angioplasty, whereas at follow-up study (0.057 versus 0.129) they were different (p = 0.01). There was a greater percent improvement at follow-up study (0.233 versus 0.057) in the group with good results than in the group with fair or poor results (0.287 versus 0.129).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530262 TI - Vulnerability to ischemic ventricular arrhythmias in left ventricular hypertrophy. PMID- 2530261 TI - Chronic hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy facilitate induction of sustained ventricular tachycardia in dogs 3 hours after left circumflex coronary artery occlusion. AB - The purpose of this study was to investigate the electrophysiology of acute ischemia in hypertrophic as compared with nonhypertrophic myocardium. Left circumflex coronary artery occlusion was produced in anesthetized open chest dogs. Of 40 dogs studied, 22 were normotensive and 18 had chronic hypertension produced by a single kidney renal clamp procedure. Recordings of electrograms and extrastimulus testing were performed in endocardial and epicardial sites in both normal and ischemically damaged zones documented by triphenyltetrazolium chloride. In the hypertrophy group, there was greater endocardial to epicardial conduction delay in ischemic zones, mean +/- SEM 57 +/- 4 ms versus 31 +/- 2 ms in the normotensive group (p less than 0.05). Also, sustained monomorphic ventricular tachycardia was inducible in seven of eight dogs with hypertrophy and in none of eight normotensive dogs surviving to 3 h. Entrainment and several observations during induction were consistent with reentrant ventricular tachycardia. To exclude hypertension alone as an etiology of tachycardia, five normotensive dogs without inducible monomorphic tachycardia remained unchanged during hypertension produced with low doses of phenylephrine or descending aortic occlusion. Thus, the electrophysiologic response to ischemia is altered in hypertrophied myocardium, which predisposes to rapid sustained monomorphic ventricular tachycardia. PMID- 2530263 TI - Absence of left ventricular volume loading in infants with coarctation of the aorta and a large ventricular septal defect. AB - Clinical characteristics and angiographic ventricular volume data were obtained in 25 infants aged 1 to 66 days who presented with coarctation of the aorta, ventricular septal defect and congestive heart failure to determine if left ventricular volume loading was present and if there were hemodynamic or volumetric variables that were predictive of operative mortality in this group. Pulmonary to systemic flow ratio averaged 2.8 +/- 0.8 and right ventricular/left ventricular peak pressure ratio was 0.96 +/- 0.12. Left ventricular end-diastolic volume averaged 116 +/- 49% of normal and was less than the investigators' lower limit of normal in 5 (20%) of 25 patients. In contrast, right ventricular end diastolic volume, measured in eight patients, averaged 173 +/- 47% of normal and was greater than the investigators' upper limit of normal in seven (88%) of eight. Left ventricular ejection fraction averaged 0.47 +/- 0.17 and was below normal (less than 0.55) in 14 (58%) of 24 patients. Preoperative volume and ejection fraction data did not differ in infants with coarctation plus ventricular septal defect and a similar group of 19 infants with isolated coarctation. Abnormal left ventricular operative volume distensibility was inferred by normal or decreased left ventricular end-diastolic volume and increased left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (greater than 12 mm Hg) in 12 (55%) of 24 patients. Early plus late mortality was related to left ventricular size: 3 of 5 patients with a small left ventricular end-diastolic volume died, compared with only 4 of 20 with a normal or increased volume (p less than 0.05).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530264 TI - Lymphocytes and nonlymphoid cells in the nasal mucosa of patients with nasal polyps and of healthy subjects. AB - Immunohistochemical stainings were performed on biopsy specimens of the middle and inferior turbinates of the nasal mucosa of 14 patients with nasal polyps and 16 healthy subjects. Significantly more CD8+ (T suppressor/cytotoxic) cells than CD4+ (T helper/inducer) cells were found in the lamina propria of the middle and inferior turbinates of patients with nasal polyps and in the inferior turbinate of healthy subjects. The middle and inferior turbinates of healthy subjects contained significantly more CD4+ cells than the middle and inferior turbinates of patients with nasal polyps. CD19+ B cells were hardly detected in the patients and healthy subjects. More HLA-DR+ cells were found in the middle than in the inferior turbinate, especially in the patients. Varying but small numbers of eosinophils, neutrophils, mast cells, and plasma cells were found in patients and healthy subjects. The possible role of CD4+, CD8+, and HLA-DR+ cells in the nasal mucosa is discussed with regard to the pathogenesis of nasal polyps. PMID- 2530265 TI - Common variable immunodeficiency: a family study and therapeutic trial with cimetidine. AB - Various immunologic parameters were tested in a family of two patients with common variable immunodeficiency. Both patients had low serum immunoglobulin levels, low peripheral B cell and T4 subclass of lymphocytes, and reversed T4/T8 ratio. One of the patients had excessive suppressor activity. Two of the asymptomatic members of the family (the father and one brother) had also low T4/T8 ratio that was not associated with excessive suppressor activity. No linkage between the disease inheritance to HLA could be observed. A study of the T cell helper activity to an antigen, the response to which is regulated by an HLA-linked gene, suggested a defect in the immune response of the two patients and their asymptomatic brother with immunologic disorders. Treatment with cimetidine of the patient with excessive suppressor activity led to an improvement in his clinical state, reduction in suppressor activity, temporary effect on his proliferative response capacity to mitogens, and an increase in the antigen-specific helper activity. PMID- 2530266 TI - Are dietitians prepared to work with handicapped infants? PL 99-457 offers new opportunities. AB - PL 99-457 mandates nutrition as one of eight disciplines to be included on the team providing services to handicapped infants (up to age 3) and their families. A case-managed range of services is required to enable the child to benefit from early interventions. Findings from a survey of a sample of entry-level Plan IV/V Programs, Coordinated Programs in Dietetics, and dietetic internships randomly selected from The American Dietetic Association's 1988 Directory of Dietetic Programs indicate that the growth and development of handicapped infants and their nutrition care are underexposed in most didactic and experiential components of the education of entry-level dietitians. A working group of nine nutritionists with expertise in both dietetic education and nutrition care of handicapped children met at a national conference and recommended competencies that they thought would enable entry-level registered dietitians to join interdisciplinary teams working with handicapped infants and their families. Registered dietitians on the team that prepares the Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) can strive to ensure that infants are well nourished and therefore more responsive to the other therapies proposed in the plan. PMID- 2530267 TI - The effects of prostacyclin and thromboxane analogue (U46619) on the fetal circulation and umbilical flow velocity waveforms. AB - In placental insufficiency and pre-eclampsia the relative production rates of prostacyclin and thromboxane by the placenta and umbilical vessels are altered and the Doppler umbilical flow velocity waveform shows a high resistance pattern. To investigate the control of umbilical placental blood flow by those eicosanoids either prostacyclin (10 micrograms/min), or the thromboxane analogue U46619 (10 ng/min) was infused into the distal aorta of 12 chronically catheterized fetal lambs at day 125. Thromboxane produced a rise in mean arterial pressure and a rise in the systolic diastolic ratio of the umbilical artery flow waveform (2.6 to 3.1; P less than 0.05). Umbilical blood flow did not change and there was no evidence of altered flow to other organs. Prostacyclin caused a fall in fetal mean arterial pressure and a decrease in the umbilical artery systolic diastolic ratio (2.9 to 2.4; P less than 0.05). Prostacyclin produced a three-fold increase in lung perfusion (and the onset of fetal breathing movements) and this was associated with a 90% reduction in muscle blood flow (hindlimb muscle flow reduced from 12.5 to 1.1 ml.min-1 100g-1; P less than 0.01). We conclude that the local release of thromboxane in the fetal placental vascular bed could account for the rise in systolic diastolic ratio seen in umbilical placental insufficiency. PMID- 2530268 TI - Role of altered systemic hemodynamics in the blunted renal response to atrial natriuretic peptide in rats with cirrhosis and ascites. AB - The natriuretic effect of pharmacological doses of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) is markedly reduced in cirrhosis with ascites. The current study, which includes two protocols, was carried out to investigate whether this phenomenon is related to the altered systemic hemodynamics present in cirrhosis. In protocol A, the administration of ANP (2.5 micrograms.kg-1 as a bolus followed by a constant infusion of 0.1 microgram.kg-1.min-1) to 10 rats with carbon tetrachloride induced cirrhosis and ascites produced a significantly lower increase in diuresis (13.4 +/- 1.3 microliters/min) and natriuresis (2.3 +/- 0.3 mu Equiv/min) than in 10 control rats (56.3 +/- 1.4 microliters/min and 8.7 +/- 0.5 mu Equiv/min, respectively), indicating a renal resistance to the effect of ANP in this experimental model of cirrhosis. The reduction of arterial pressure induced by ANP was similar in both groups. However, since baseline mean arterial pressure was significantly lower in cirrhotic rats, the degree of hypotension during ANP infusion was also greater in this group of animals (82 +/- 3 vs. 109 +/- 2 mmHg). The aim of protocol B was to assess whether normalization of arterial pressure in cirrhotic rats increases the renal response to ANP. This protocol includes two groups of 10 rats with cirrhosis and ascites infused with a glucose solution containing norepinephrine (CT-NE rats) or angiotensin II (CT-AII rats) at doses to normalize arterial pressure and an additional control group of 10 cirrhotic rats with ascites receiving only glucose solution (CT rats). Angiotensin II, but not norepinephrine or glucose solution administration, was associated with a significant increase in urine volume and sodium excretion. During ANP infusion, CT rats showed a blunted diuretic and natriuretic response. In contrast, the ANP induced increase in urine volume and sodium excretion observed in CT-NE (53.6 +/- 10.4 microliters/min and 9.3 +/- 2.2 mu Equiv/min) and CT-AII rats (98.3 +/- 11.6 microliters/min and 15.5 +/- 2.9 mu Equiv/m), was similar or even greater than that showed by the healthy rats of protocol A. The degree of hypotension during ANP administration was also similar (CT-NE, 104 +/- 2; CT-AII, 108 +/- 5 mmHg). These results suggest that the blunted response to pharmacological doses of ANP in cirrhosis with ascites is related to altered systemic hemodynamics of cirrhosis, which further deteriorates during the infusion of the peptide. PMID- 2530269 TI - Anti-myosin heavy chain monoclonal antibodies reveal two IIB (fast) fiber subtypes. AB - Indirect immunofluorescence analysis of different rat skeletal muscles using anti myosin heavy chain (MHC) monoclonal antibodies (MAb) revealed the presence of two immunologically distinct kinds of fibers within the IIB fibers, histochemically identified by myosin ATPase staining. Some IIB fibers (designated here as IIB1) were unreactive with one anti-fast MHC MAb, whereas they did react with another anti-fast MHC MAb; other IIB fibers (designated here as IIB2) reacted with both anti-fast MAbs. Neither of the two IIB fiber subtypes was significantly reactive with a neonatal MHC MAb. The number of each IIB fiber subtype was age-dependent, at least in the plantaris muscle. IIB1 fibers were observed only in the superficial portion of the plantaris and gastrocnemius muscle. The ratio of IIB1:IIB2 fibers was about the same throughout the extensor digitorum longus and extraocular muscles. Therefore, the two kinds of IIB fibers here observed have a different myosin heavy chain content. On the basis of their specific immunoreactivities, we suggest that IIB1 fibers contain the previously described MHCB. IIB2 fibers contain either a unique new MHC isoform or a mixture of at least two MHC, possibly composed of the MHCB and either the previously described MHCA or a new MHC isoform. PMID- 2530270 TI - Histochemical and molecular determination of fiber types in chemically skinned single equine skeletal muscle fibers. AB - Until now, there has been no reliable method for histochemical determination of fiber types of single skinned muscle fibers. The major problem arises from the fact that most histochemical techniques use cross-sections of a large group of fibers and compare a given fiber with those surrounding it. This is not possible with a single skinned fiber which has been separated from a bundle to be used for mechanical analysis. A further problem is that the skinning procedure itself may alter the staining pattern. We have developed a procedure by which multiple cross sections of single skinned fibers can be exposed to various histochemical reactions and the staining patterns compared on the same slide to those of frozen muscle and skinned bundles. By this procedure, three fiber types were distinguished by both Ca2+-ATPase and SDH reactions. The fiber typings determined from both enzyme systems correlated well with each other. Although we were able to differentiate only between slow and fast fibers by SDS-PAGE, these results corroborated the histochemical classification. This procedure will clearly be useful in skinned single muscle fiber mechanics experiments performed to determine functional differences among fiber types. PMID- 2530271 TI - Effects of intracerebroventricular atrial natriuretic factor on angiotensin II- or sodium-induced blood pressure elevation and natriuresis. AB - We examined the effects of intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) administration of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) on pressor and natriuretic responses induced by i.c.v. angiotensin II (Ang II) or hypertonic NaCl. Conscious male Wistar rats were given one of the following solutions into the lateral ventricle: artificial cerebrospinal fluid (CSF); rat ANF (99-126) 1.0 microgram/kg per min; Ang II 100 ng/kg per min; 0.6 mol/l NaCl; Ang II plus ANF, and 0.6 mol/l NaCl plus ANF. The i.c.v. infusion of artificial CSF or ANF alone did not cause significant changes in mean blood pressure, urinary volume or sodium excretion (UNaV). The i.c.v. infusion of Ang II or 0.6 mol/l NaCl raised mean blood pressure, decreased urinary volume and increased UNaV. When ANF was administered with Ang II, the Ang II-induced responses were diminished significantly (delta mean blood pressure, +10 +/- 3 versus +20 +/- 4 mmHg; delta urinary volume, -38 +/- 9 versus -78 +/- 5 microliters/min; delta UNaV, +0.49 +/- 0.51 versus +2.28 +/- 0.58 mumol/min). The centrally administered ANF opposed the effects of 0.6 mol/l NaCl, though the effect was significant only in respect of blood pressure. Our results indicate that the brain ANF may have an antinatriuretic role in some conditions. PMID- 2530272 TI - A comparison of the action of atriopeptin III on renal function in normal and DOCA-salt hypertensive rats. AB - Administration of atriopeptin III (125, 250 and 500 ng/kg, intravenously) into pentobarbitone anaesthetized normotensive and DOCA-salt hypertensive rats had no effect on blood pressure or renal haemodynamics. Urine flow and absolute and fractional sodium excretion were increased by 48-90% from the lowest to the highest dose of atriopeptin III in the normotensive group, but were increased by over twice these amounts in the DOCA-salt hypertensive rats. Fractional lithium excretion and calculated proximal tubular fluid reabsorption were unaffected by the peptide in the normotensive rats, but in the hypertensive group atriopeptide III increased fractional lithium excretion by 25-50% and decreased proximal tubular reabsorption to a similar extent. Beyond the proximal tubule there were similar increases in fractional and absolute fluid handling in both groups of rats. These results demonstrated that in DOCA-salt hypertension there was increased sensitivity to the natriuretic activity of atriopeptin III which appeared to result from an increased responsiveness of the proximal tubule. PMID- 2530274 TI - IL-1 induces rapid phosphorylation of the IL-1 receptor. AB - The IL-1R on murine T cells is a Mr = 80,000 plasma membrane glycoprotein. cDNA cloning and transfection experiments have shown that this is an integral membrane protein, which binds both IL-1 alpha and IL-1 beta and transduces the IL-1 signal. A mAb, RM-5, which binds an epitope on the receptor which is distinct from the IL-1 binding site has been produced in rats. RM-5 has been used to immunoprecipitate the IL-1R from 32P-orthophosphate labeled CHO cells which express approximately 100,000 functional, murine rIL-1R/cell. Phosphorylation of the receptor was observed as early as 1 min after the addition of IL-1 and continued for periods of up to 30 min. Phosphorylation increases as the concentration of IL-1 increases from 10(-13) to 10(-8) M. Potassium hydroxide hydrolysis of the phosphorylated IL-1R shows that more than 90% of the phosphate is incorporated into serine or threonine. Thus, one of the earliest events after IL-1 binding to the IL-1R is activation of a serine/threonine protein kinase and phosphorylation of the IL-1R itself. PMID- 2530273 TI - Comparative studies of human FcRIII-positive and negative natural killer cells. AB - In the present study we have identified and characterized three subpopulations of peripheral blood NK cells based on the surface expression of CD56 and CD16. We have designated these subsets CD16neg, CD16dim, and CD16bright according to the relative surface density of CD16. The CD16bright subset comprised about 10% to 15% of PBL, whereas the CD16dim and CD16neg subsets comprise less than 1% of the total lymphocytes. A detailed characterization of these subsets revealed both similarities and differences. The three subsets shared a great deal of phenotypic similarity, expressing CD2, CD7, CD11b, CD38, CD45R, CD18, and the p75 IL-2R on the majority of the cells in each subset. There were, however, several prominent phenotypic differences, particularly in the expression of CD57, CD11c, CD44, CD25, Leu-8, L263, and L265. The CD16neg cells were morphologically large agranular lymphocytes and demonstrated low levels of non-MHC restricted cytolysis of NK-sensitive tumor lines. The CD16dim and CD16bright subsets were large granular lymphocytes and revealed potent cytotoxicity against NK-sensitive targets. All subsets demonstrated IL-2-dependent activation and proliferation; however, the CD16dim and CD16neg subsets were preferentially responsive to very low concentrations of rIL-2. Although rIL-4 effectively inhibited the IL-2 induced cytolytic activation of all three NK cell subsets, only the CD16bright cells showed rIL-4 inhibition of IL-2 dependent proliferation. Cytokine transcription was also differentially regulated in the NK cell subsets after rIL 2 activation. Although TNF-alpha was equally transcribed in each subsets, IFN gamma and serine protease-HF were preferentially transcribed in the CD16bright NK cells. Based on these results, we propose that these NK cell subsets represent portions of the NK cell differentiation pathway present in the peripheral blood. PMID- 2530275 TI - Comparison of the immunosuppressive properties of milk growth factor and transforming growth factors beta 1 and beta 2. AB - The effects of the newly isolated bovine milk growth factor (MGF) which shows N terminal homology to transforming growth factor beta 2 were compared with the effects of porcine transforming growth factor beta 1 and beta 2 (pTGF-beta 1 and beta 2) on human T lymphocyte activation. Freshly isolated human PBMC were stimulated with either PHA, anti-CD3 + phorbol-12,13-dibutyrate (PDBu), or with a combination of ionomycin + PDBu. MGF, pTGF-beta 1, and pTGF-beta 2 decreased mitogen-induced [3H]thymidine incorporation by 30 to 75% in a dose-dependent manner. The maximum degree of inhibition was obtained at 1 ng/ml (40 pM) and could not be increased by increasing the concentration of teh transforming growth factor 10-fold. Stimulation of fresh T cells with the recall Ag tetanus toxoid was also inhibited (85%) by MGF at pM concentrations as was the proliferation of a human T cell clone specific for purified protein derivative. The effects of MGF and pTGF-beta 1 on anti-CD3-mediated increase of intracellular Ca2+ (Cai2+) was investigated by using the Fura-2 method. Neither MGF nor pTGF-beta 1 inhibited this increase in Cai2+ induced by a mitogenic concentration of anti-CD3 antibody. In order to determine whether TGF-beta preferentially inhibited the CD4+ or CD8+ subpopulation of human T cells, a limiting dilution analysis system, which allows every T cell to proliferate, was used. pTGF-beta 1 at a concentration of 5 ng/ml decreased the frequency of proliferating T cell precursors of both the CD4+ and CD8+ subsets to a similar extent. Furthermore, MGF, pTGF-beta 1, and pTGF-beta 2 also decreased IL-2 mediated [3H]thymidine incorporation into human PBL Con A blasts and the IL-4-mediated [3H]thymidine incorporation of purified T lymphocytes costimulated with PDBu by 70%. In conclusion, bovine MGF exerts suppressive effects on human T cells stimulated with Ag, mitogens, or interleukins, and the degree of T cell suppression is similar (or identical) to those of pTGF-beta 1 or -beta 2. PMID- 2530276 TI - Structure and membrane topology of the high-affinity receptor for human IFN gamma: requirements for binding IFN-gamma. One single 90-kilodalton IFN-gamma receptor can lead to multiple cross-linked products and isolated proteins. AB - We analyzed the high affinity receptor for IFN-gamma of Raji cells and human placenta by combining Scatchard analysis, cross-linking experiments, and receptor purification. Only one high affinity binding site was found, Kd 2.1 X 10(-10). The receptor is a 90-kDa glycoprotein. However, multiple cross-linked products of 110 kDa to about 250 kDa could be generated and proteins of 90, 70, and 50 kDa could be obtained upon purification. These proteins all contained the same 90-kDa receptor, or part of it. We suggest that extensive cross-linking and/or proteolysis may explain many of the conflicting results published thus far. The extracellular domain of the 90-kDa receptor protein was highly resistant to digestion with trypsin or proteinase K. Trypsin digestion neither affected the number of binding sites per cell, nor the Kd for IFN-gamma. A cluster of sites for different proteases was found in the intracellular domain. The 50-kDa fragment created by trypsin digestion had the same characteristics as the isolated 50-kDa receptor fragment. It contained the IFN-gamma binding site and the receptor's extracellular and amino-terminal domain. N-linked glycosylation contributed about 15 kDa to its molecular mass, of which 4 kDa were attributable to sialic acid residues. O-Linked glycosylation was not detected. The number of binding sites per cell and the Kd for IFN-gamma were not affected by the presence or absence of N-linked glycosylation. The receptor contained at least one critical disulfide bridge and the reduced receptor could be reactivated in vitro. PMID- 2530277 TI - Cytotoxic T lymphocyte unresponsiveness induced by prolonged treatment with immobilized anti-CD3 antibody. Association of impairment of cytolytic activity with temporary depletion of intracellular protein kinase C. AB - In our study we investigated the effect of pretreatment of bulk CTL and CTL clones with immobilized anti-CD3 antibody (Ab) or PMA. Primary CTL and CTL clones were cultured in dishes coated with anti-CD3 Ab or in medium containing PMA (5 nM) and assayed for Ag-specific or Ag-nonspecific "redirected" cytolysis using FcR+ P815 cells as targets. Cytotoxic activity of bulk CTL and five of six CTL clones tested in this study were inhibited by prolonged (longer than 6 h) pretreatment with immobilized anti-CD3 Ab or PMA, whereas proliferation of CTL clones or expression of surface CD3 molecules were not. The intracellular granule enzyme (N-alpha-benzyloxycarbonyl-L-lysine thiobenzyl ester esterase) activity of CTL clones was not reduced under these suppressive conditions, indicating that the incompetence of CTL is not merely due to depletion of cytolytic granules by chronic stimulation. The suppressed cytotoxicity could be recovered by culturing CTL without perturbation of CD3 molecules for 24 h. In one exceptional clone, BM10-37, pretreatment with immobilized anti-CD3 Ab or PMA did not suppress the cytotoxic activity. Immunostaining of intracellular protein kinase C (PKC) revealed that PKC was depleted after prolonged treatment with immobilized anti CD3 Ab or PMA in those susceptible CTL clones but not in the resistant BM10-37. These findings lead us to conclude that prolonged stimulation of CD3 of CTL results in depletion of PKC and that PKC may be essential for signal transduction to deliver a lethal hit to the target cells. PMID- 2530278 TI - Activation signals in human lymphocytes. Incorporation of polyunsaturated fatty acids into plasma membrane phospholipids regulates IL-2 synthesis via sustained activation of protein kinase C. AB - Human PBL activated with anti-TCR/CD3 mAb express high affinity receptors for IL 2, synthesize IL-2, and subsequently proliferate. In contrast, lymphocytes activated by dioctanoylglycerol (DiC8) and ionomycin express high affinity receptors; however, no IL-2 synthesis is detectable. Anti-TCR/CD3 antibodies, as well as DiC8 cause translocation of protein kinase C (PKC) from the cytosol to the plasma membrane. In DiC8-stimulated cells translocation of PKC is detectable after 15 min, then it declines to control levels. In lymphocytes activated by antiTCR/CD3 mAb translocation of PKC is detectable after 15 min, then it declines to control levels, followed by a second, long lasting activation of the enzyme up to 4 h. Addition of polyunsaturated fatty acids to DiC8 + ionomycin-treated cells leads to IL-2 synthesis and proliferation. Incorporation of poly-unsaturated fatty acids into plasma membrane phospholipids results in long term activation of PKC. The results suggest that elevated incorporation of polyunsaturated fatty acids and thus continuous activation and translocation of PKC represents a necessary early signal for IL-2 synthesis and proliferation in human lymphocytes. PMID- 2530279 TI - Expression of B cell surface receptors. II. IL-4 can accelerate the developmental expression of the murine B cell IgE Fc receptor. AB - The ability of IL-4 to influence the developmental expression of the murine B cell IgE Fc receptor (Fc epsilon R) was examined. Spleen cells from neonatal mice of increasing age were incubated overnight with IL-4 and subsequently examined with multicolor flow cytometry. The results demonstrate that IL-4 can significantly increase the number of maturing B cells which express the Fc epsilon R. This effect was only seen however, on those neonatal B cells which already displayed surface IgD. Splenic B cells which were IgM+, IgD- failed to express the Fc epsilon R when treated with IL-4, even though they responded by increasing their level of class II Ag expression. Further experiments showed that the inability of IgD- immature B cells to express the Fc epsilon R could not be entirely explained by their assignment to the Ly-1 lineage. Taken together, these results indicate that IL-4 can accelerate the developmental expression of the B cell Fc epsilon R, but only on those B cells that are mature enough to express IgD. PMID- 2530280 TI - Hodgkin's cell lectin, a lymphocyte adhesion molecule and mitogen. AB - We have previously shown a novel galactose/N-acetylgalactosamine specific lectin activity (Hodgkin's disease (HD) lectin) on the surface of cultured HD cells (lines L428, its variants, and line L540) to mediate lymphocyte adhesion. We here demonstrate that both surface membrane-bound and secreted HD lectin activities participate in the activation of agglutinated lymphocytes. Among known adhesion molecules expressed by the HD cells, only the intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) contributed to this activation as an alternative PBL binding site. As yet we have not identified the cellular ligand(s) for the HD lectin on the lymphocyte surface. Pretreatment of lymphocytes with mAb to the accessory molecules CD2, CD3, CD4, CD8, CD11b, or CD11c did not interfere with their response to HD cells. mAb to CD11a (LFA-1), the alleged ligand of ICAM-1, inhibited the ICAM-1 but not the HD lectin-mediated lymphocyte stimulation. Although lymphocyte binding could proceed via either pathway, lymphocyte activation always depended upon factors secreted by the HD cells, one of which we identified as a soluble form of the HD lectin based on its shared properties with the membrane-bound form including immunologic cross-recognition and carbohydrate binding specificity. Although HD cell-conditioned medium alone stimulated lymphocytes, HD cell plasma membranes could compensate for low concentrations of this medium. In addition, resting lymphocytes, normally unresponsive, were triggered into DNA synthesis by growth medium when cocultured with HD cell membranes. The unique functions of the surface-expressed HD lectin and its soluble counterpart as lymphocyte adhesion molecule and mitogen might be physiologically relevant to the severe immunodeficiencies occurring in patients with HD. PMID- 2530282 TI - The role of IFN-gamma in delayed-type hypersensitivity mediated by Th1 clones. AB - One type of Th cell clone, Th1, causes delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) when injected with the appropriate Ag into the footpads of naive mice. Because IFN gamma, one of the Th1-specific cytokines, has been reported to produce some of the manifestations of DTH, we have investigated the role of IFN-gamma in the DTH reaction induced by Th1 cells by using a mAb which neutralizes the biologic activity of IFN-gamma. Anti IFN-gamma inhibited up to 55% of the swelling response induced by seven Th1 clones in BALB/c and CBA/J mice suggesting that IFN gamma is an important mediator of Th1-induced DTH. This inhibition was consistently observed during the peak phase of the DTH response and could be partly but not entirely explained by decreases in vascular leakage. The DTH responses induced by two Th1 clones in C57BL/6 mice were not inhibited by anti IFN-gamma. Taken together, these data suggest that other inflammatory mediators also play a role in Th1-induced DTH responses. Based on the gross description and kinetics of the response and the numbers of polymorphonuclear neutrophilic granulocytes in the cellular infiltrate, Th1-induced DTH appears to be similar to the Jones-Mote type of hypersensitivity. PMID- 2530281 TI - Mechanism of action of anti-IL-2R monoclonal antibodies. ART-18 prolongs cardiac allograft survival in rats by elimination of IL-2R+ mononuclear cells. AB - ART-18, a mouse IgG1 mAb recognizing the IL-2 binding domain of the rat p55 subunit IL-2R molecule, prevents graft rejection in various experimental models, although its mechanism of action in vivo, like that of anti-IL-2R mAb generally, remains elusive. These studies were designed to define whether IL-2R+ T effector cells were actually eliminated or their function merely inhibited by comparing directly the in vitro and in vivo efficacy of intact ART-18 and its F(ab)/F(ab')2 fragments. Addition of each mAb preparation profoundly suppressed MLR set up between naive LEW responders and x-radiated BN stimulators, suggesting that mAb fragments retained Ag binding functions in vitro. However, both ART-18 F(ab) and F(ab')2 were ineffectual in vivo as judged by their inability to affect acute (8 days) rejection of (LEW X BN)F1 cardiac allografts in LEW recipients (graft survival ca. 11 and 9 days, respectively, compared to ca. 21 days after therapy with intact ART-18, p less than 0.001). The sera levels of ART-18 and ART-18 F(ab')2 were 4 to 5 micrograms/ml, but only less than 0.5 micrograms/ml of F(ab) could be detected. The therapeutic failure of ART-18 fragments was unrelated to potential host sensitization, as rat antimouse F(ab) or F(ab')2 serum IgG titers remained in the same range as those against intact ART-18. The role of the Fc portion of Ig in the mode of action of ART-18 was then tested further by flow microfluorimetry analysis of host mononuclear spleen cells and immunoperoxidase stains of the graft infiltrate. IL-2R+ cells were abundant in rats treated with ART-18 fragments, comparable to acutely rejecting controls. In contrast, IL-2R expression was abolished in animals undergoing ART-18 therapy. The elimination of IL-2R+ cells is required to prolong cardiac allograft survival in rats after IL 2R targeted treatment with ART-18 mAb. PMID- 2530283 TI - Expression of human lymphocyte IgE receptor (Fc epsilon RII/CD23). Identification of the Fc epsilon RIIa promoter and its functional analysis in B lymphocytes. AB - Two species, Fc epsilon RIIa and Fc epsilon RIIb, of the human low-affinity receptor for IgE (Fc epsilon RII/CD23) have recently been described. They differ by only six amino acids in the cytoplasmic N-terminus and are generated by different cell-specific transcriptional start sites that lead to distinct 5' leader sequences in the corresponding mRNA. In this study, we present the analysis of the promoter which is regulating the expression of the B cell specific Fc epsilon RIIa. Our data show that this promoter is flanked by several long repetitive elements that are influencing transcription in the Burkitt lymphoma B cell line Jijoye. Serial deletions of the 5'-flanking region of the promoter revealed two major regulatory segments that have either inhibitory or enhancing effects on transcription. In addition, IL-4 caused a two- to four-fold up-regulation of the Fc epsilon RIIa promoter activity and the DNA element responsible was mapped within the first 250 bp of the 5'-flanking region. These results were confirmed by transferring the DNA segment containing the putative IL 4 responsive element to a heterologous thymidine kinase promoter. It was concluded that IL-4 augments the Fc epsilon RIIa expression by transcriptional regulation. PMID- 2530284 TI - Characterization of individual tumor necrosis factor alpha-and beta-producing cells after polyclonal T cell activation. AB - Mononuclear cells from human blood were stimulated to tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha) or beta (TNF beta) production by the T cell mitogens anti-CD3 antibody (OKT3) or staphylococcal enterotoxin A (SEA). The cells were then fixed and subsequently permeabilized in suspension by the detergent saponin in order to enable TNF alpha- or TNF beta-specific antibodies to enter the cells and interact with cytoplasmic TNF in producer cells. A characteristic morphology of the staining pattern of the two cytokines was noted, with a local accumulation in the cytoplasm in a perinuclear position reflecting the presence of TNF alpha or -beta in the Golgi system. TNF alpha-producing cells appeared 2-3 h after activation of the cultures and increased up to 6 h. The majority of these early TNF alpha producing cells were monocytes as judged by two-color staining and morphology, but a small fraction of CD4- and CD8-positive T cells was found up to 72 h. TNF beta production started later and peaked 18 or 48 h after OKT3 or SEA stimulation, respectively. The number of TNF beta-producing cells was much larger than that of TNF alpha-producing cells, and approximately 90% of them were CD4 positive T cells. The remaining TNF beta production occurred in CD8-positive T cells and in B cells. Almost every second CD4-positive T cell made TNF beta at the peak of the SEA-induced synthesis. The cytotoxic activity found in the supernatants correlated well with the number of TNF-producing cells found in the cultures. Cells from fresh blood or unstimulated cultures showed no or very few TNF-producing cells. PMID- 2530285 TI - Immunological applications of type III Fc binding proteins. Comparison of different sources of protein G. AB - Protein G, a type III bacterial IgG Fc receptor isolated from certain group C or G streptococci, shows a wider range of species and subclass immunoglobulin reactivity than staphylococcal protein A and has been shown to be more useful than protein A for many immunochemical applications. Recently, two forms of wild type protein G and three forms of recombinant protein G have become commercially available. Each form of protein G was tested for reactivity with a variety of species of immunoglobulin and albumin. Additionally, one form of wild type protein G and two forms of the recombinant protein G were examined for their ability to stimulate in vitro proliferation of human peripheral blood leukocytes (PBL). Similar IgG species reactivity was observed for all forms of unlabeled protein G. By contrast, considerable variability in the relative IgG binding potentials of different protein G preparations was observed following radioiodination. Binding to human serum albumin was observed with one of the wild type protein G samples, however, the IgG binding activity of this protein was not affected by the presence of excess human serum albumin. In the human PBL proliferation assays, wild type protein G was weakly mitogenic and one form of recombinant protein G was shown to be a potent mitogen, while another form of recombinant protein G displayed no mitogenic potential. Differences in both functional and biological reactivities were observed among the various sources of protein G. These differences may lead to confusion if investigators consider all sources of protein G as a single entity with common properties. PMID- 2530286 TI - The liposome-mediated macrophage 'suicide' technique. AB - Macrophages form an important cell population involved in numerous immunological processes. Techniques which eliminate these cells, in order to permit 'in vivo' studies of their function are generally imperfect and for that reason we have developed a method using the liposome encapsulated drug dichloromethylene diphosphonate (Cl2MDP). The liposomes are ingested by the macrophages which are then destroyed following phospholipase-mediated disruption of the liposomal bilayers and release of the Cl2MDP. In the present review, technical details of the preparation of liposome encapsulated Cl2MDP are given, and applications of the technique are discussed. PMID- 2530287 TI - A sensitive enzyme immunoassay for atrial natriuretic polypeptide. AB - A sensitive sandwich enzyme immunoassay for mammalian alpha-atrial natriuretic polypeptide (alpha-ANP) has been developed using Fab' fragments of affinity purified rabbit anti-alpha-hANP[6-28] polyclonal antibodies (R3) conjugated to horseradish peroxidase. Immunoplates were coated with (F(ab')2) fragments of anti alpha-hANP monoclonal antibodies (HA53). Without using a pre-concentration step the detection limit of alpha-hANP in plasma was 5 pg/ml. The assay was sufficient accuracy and reproducibility for general use of, i.e., the coefficients of within assay and between-assay variation were 6.4-10.7% and 9.7-15.3%, respectively. Using the assay, the basal plasma alpha-hANP level of healthy persons was 15.3 +/ 8.3 pg/ml (mean +/- SD, n = 40). PMID- 2530289 TI - Vaccination against hepatitis B: comparison of three different vaccination schedules. AB - Three different hepatitis B vaccination schedules employing injections at months 0, 1, 2, and 12, at months 0, 1, and 6, or at months 0, 1, and 12 were compared in 89 healthy young adults. Concentrations of antibodies to hepatitis B surface antigen (anti-HBs) after the third injection were dependent on the interval between the second and the third dose; geometric mean titers (GMTs) in the three groups were 53 IU/l, 5,846 IU/l, and 19,912 IU/l, respectively, when the third dose was given at month 2, 6, or 12. Whereas the anti-HBs responses to the third dose at month 6 or 12 were typical booster reactions, the kinetics after a third dose given at month 2 resembled those after only two doses but on a significantly higher level. A fourth dose given at month 12 to the individuals vaccinated at months 0, 1, and 2 led to a prompt anti-HBs response similar in height to the response in those vaccinated at months 0, 1, and 12. Thus, for achieving a high anti-HBs concentration guaranteeing its long-lasting persistence, vaccination at months 0, 1, and 12 seems to be preferable to vaccination at months 0, 1, and 6. For individuals at high risk of hepatitis B infection, vaccination at months 0, 1, 2, and 12 might be considered for obtaining an optimal early seroconversion as well as long-term protection. PMID- 2530288 TI - Intradermal hepatitis B vaccination for mentally retarded patients. AB - We investigated immune responses in 63 mentally retarded patients each given a low-dose (4 micrograms) intradermally of plasma-derived hepatitis B vaccine made in Japan and which was repeated after 1 and 6 months. Two doses of the vaccine induced antibodies in 85.5% these patients. A further dose 6 months later induced antibodies in 93.5% of the recipients and markedly increased the proportion of recipients with acceptable or high concentrations of antibody. The numbers of acceptable and high responders decreased slightly during a period of 12 months. The rate of acquiring antibody was significantly higher in the males. No significant differences in antibody response with regard to age and type of disease were observed. One patient with Down's syndrome, who acquired a low concentration of antibody after vaccination, was infected with hepatitis B virus. Supplementary vaccination may be necessary for poor responders in order to obtain protection. Side-effects resulting from the vaccination were not severe in any patients. These results suggest that low-dose, intradermal hepatitis B vaccination is safe and effective. PMID- 2530290 TI - [Severe postoperative pulmonary hypertensive crisis in a case of ventricular septal defect with Down's syndrome]. AB - We encountered the episode of severe postoperative pulmonary hypertensive crisis in a case of ventricular septal defect with Down's syndrome. A 1 year 11 month old female with ventricular septal defect and pulmonary hypertension underwent open heart surgery. On the operative day after tracheal suction she experienced bradycardia, hypotension and pulmonary hypertension followed by shock condition. In spite of vigorous medical therapy clinical aspects were not improved. But only blood transfusion directly into the left atrium and administration of tolazoline hydrochlorides through pulmonary artery were very effective to improvement of hemodynamics and reduction of pulmonary hypertension. Moreover, after this episode pulmonary artery pressure showed elevation at the tracheal suction and the weaning from the respirator. We discussed the cause and treatment of postoperative pulmonary hypertensive crisis. PMID- 2530291 TI - [Studies on endocrine therapy of endometriosis]. AB - GnRH agonist and synthetic steroid such as Danazol, Medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) and Gestrinone are useful for the treatment of patients with endometriosis. These compounds induce atrophy and regression of endometriotic tissue, but the action mechanisms are still unclear. The present study, therefore, was undertaken to elucidate the mechanisms of these compounds in the treatment of endometriosis. In addition, a combination therapy with these compounds for endometriosis was also evaluated with an experimental animal model. Effects of GnRH agonist, Danazol and GnRH/Danazol combination on experimental endometriosis were evaluated in female rats. Endometrium autotransplanted under the renal capsule markedly decreased in size following castration. Histologic examination indicated atrophy and regression of the endometrial explant. The changes of endometrial explant were also induced by GnRH agonist, Danazol and combination treatment. However, a combination therapy with GnRH agonist and Danazol (93%) was shown to be superior to GnRH agonist (65%) and Danazol alone (45%) to induce atrophy and regression of experimental endometriosis. As expected, GnRH agonist significantly decreased serum E2, but Danazol did not at all. It is suggested that a combination therapy with GnRH agonist and Danazol may be a potential modality in the treatment of endometriosis. In order to evaluate whether Danazol, MPA, and Gestrinone has a direct inhibitory effect to synthesize estrogen, immature female rats were hypophysectomized and the ovaries were stimulated by a daily PMS injection. Administration of Danazol to the rats for two weeks stimulated the synthesis of 17, 20-lyase, 17 beta-HSD and aromatase activity, but did not inhibit any enzyme activities.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530292 TI - [Laparoscopic studies of pelvic endometriosis in relation to sterility]. AB - Six hundred and eighteen endometriosis patients out of 2,966 cases diagnosed with laparoscopy were statistically analyzed. The incidence of pelvic endometriosis was 28.3% of infertile cases, 47.2% of infertile cases of etiology unknown sterility, and 53.6% of cases of dysmenorrhea. Initial onset was most common in the sacrouterine ligament and the pouch of Douglas, followed by the ovaries. It was also seen in the vesicouterine pouch. The progress after the initial onset was considered to be due mainly to ovarian lesions, and the progressive rate appeared to be 0.3 point per month according to the R-AFS point system. Cases with stage 3 ovarian lesions were seen up to 7 years after menarche, and there were almost no cases of endometriosis 10 years after menopause. No differences in the average age were seen by stage of clinical progress or R-AFS, and the average age was around 31. The period of infertility showed no definite relation with the stage of the disease in cases of primary sterility, but stage 1 cases were common in patients with secondary sterility. The incidence of dysmenorrhea did not differ depending on the stage of the disease, but severe menstrual pain was common in stage 4 cases. The frequency associated with sterility did not differ in accordance with the stage. Severe pain at the time of endoscopy and induration of Douglas' pouch were common in stage 4 cases, but 31.9% of stage 4 cases showed no abnormal findings in pelvic examination. There was no significant difference between R-AFS points and the incidence of abnormal findings in HSG.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530293 TI - [Level of inhibition of thymidylate synthase activity and 5-fluorouracil in tumor tissues after administration of UFT or tegafur]. AB - The antitumor effects of tegafur and UFT, fluorinated pyrimidines, were investigated in endometrial carcinoma bearing mice. Following administration of tegafur and UFT, each at a clinical dosage, the levels of 5-fluorouracil (5-Fu) and the inhibition of thymidylate synthase (TS) activity in the tumor tissue were measured. As a result, the mean levels of 5-Fu in the tumor tissue were approximately six times higher in the UFT group (29.2 +/- 10.7 ng/g) than in the tegafur group (4.9 +/- 4.8 ng/g) (p less than 0.01). The UFT group showed a mean inhibition of TS activity in the tumor tissue significantly higher (61.60 +/- 2.02%) than did the tegafur group (56.08 +/- 4.87%) (p less than 0.05). Hence, not only the higher tumor tissue levels of 5-Fu but also the higher inhibition of TS activity in the UFT group as compared with the tegafur group suggested that UFT had more potent antitumor effect. PMID- 2530295 TI - The Regular Education Initiative and opinions of regular classroom teachers. AB - The Regular Education Initiative (REI) has been gaining momentum. However, the movement has not escaped criticism. One of the criticisms is that regular classroom teachers' views regarding many of the beliefs or assumptions of the REI are unknown. The present study was undertaken to provide this type of data. Ninety-four regular classroom teachers in northwest Iowa were asked to agree or disagree with a series of statements on the REI position. The results showed general disagreement with the statements, suggesting that the respondents do not share similar concerns or beliefs regarding the current delivery of special education services. Implications of the results with respect to implementation of the REI are discussed. PMID- 2530296 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor in the ascitic fluid of cirrhotic patients. AB - The simultaneous measurement of plasma and ascitic fluid atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) concentrations in six cirrhotic patients revealed that ANF is present in high concentrations (mean = 89 +/- 4 pg/ml) in the ascitic fluid of these patients. The concentration of atrial natriuretic factor in ascitic fluid was nearly equal to the concentration in plasma (96 +/- 8 pg/ml). The plasma levels of ANF in the cirrhotic patients were considerably higher than the mean plasma concentration of this peptide hormone in 54 persons without cirrhosis (67 +/- 3 pg/ml). The data demonstrate that atrial natriuretic factor is present in ascitic fluid in high concentrations that are nearly equal to that in plasma. This suggests that its presence in ascitic fluid is due to capillary leakage in the hepatic sinusoids. PMID- 2530294 TI - Renal sympathetic nerves attenuate the natriuretic effects of atrial peptide. AB - Low frequencies of renal sympathetic nerve stimulation increase renal tubular sodium reabsorption without causing renal hemodynamic changes. We tested the hypothesis that the natriuretic responses to synthetic atrial peptides (atriopeptin III [APIII], 24 amino acids) are modulated by the renal tubular actions of the renal nerves. Responses to intravenous infusions of APIII (0.5 and 2.0 micrograms/kg/min) were examined in three groups of chloralose-anesthetized rats. Bilateral renal function studies were done in all three groups in which the right kidney was denervated and the left kidney was either left innervated (group I, n = 10) or the distal portion of the transected left renal nerves was stimulated at 15 V, 1 msec, and 0.5 Hz (group II, n = 8) or 1.0 Hz (group III, n = 8). In groups I, II, and III, diuretic and natriuretic responses to APIII were significantly (p less than 0.05) less in the kidneys with intact innervation or low-frequency (0.5 and 1.0 Hz) renal nerve stimulation than in the denervated kidneys. In conclusion, renal excretory responses to APIII are substantially modulated by the renal tubular actions resulting from low-frequency renal nerve stimulation. We speculate that the decrease in renal excretory responses to atrial peptides in pathophysiologic states such as congestive heart failure, nephrotic syndrome, and cirrhosis may result in part from an increase in the prevailing level of renal sympathetic nerve activity. PMID- 2530297 TI - Sustained exposure of toxically damaged mouse pancreatic islets to high glucose does not increase beta-cell dysfunction. AB - The aim of this study was to clarify whether prolonged in-vitro exposure of either normal or damaged beta cells to a high glucose environment can be toxic to these cells. For this purpose NMRI mice were injected intravenously with a diabetogenic dose of streptozotocin (SZ; 160 mg/kg) or vehicle alone (controls). Their islets were isolated 15 min after the injection and subsequently maintained in culture for 21 days in the presence of 11.1 or 28 mmol glucose/l. After this period, during acute glucose stimulation, the control islets showed a marked increase in their insulin release in response to a high glucose stimulus. In the SZ-exposed islets there was a decrease in DNA and insulin contents, and a deficient insulin secretory response to glucose. However, in the SZ-damaged islets as well as in the control islets, culture with 28 mmol glucose/l compared with 11.1 mmol glucose/l did not impair islet retrieval after culture, islet DNA content or glucose-induced insulin release. Thus, the degree of damage was similar in the SZ-treated islets cultured at the two concentrations of glucose. These results suggest that glucose is not toxic to normal or damaged mouse pancreatic islets over a prolonged period in tissue culture. PMID- 2530298 TI - Pronounced lowering of serum levels of lipoprotein Lp(a) in hyperlipidaemic subjects treated with nicotinic acid. AB - Thirty-one consecutive unselected hyperlipidaemic patients were treated daily with 4 g of nicotinic acid for 6 weeks. The concentrations in serum of lipoprotein Lp(a), and the major lipoprotein classes, were determined before and after the treatment. Nicotinic acid significantly reduced the serum levels of Lp(a) in the whole patient group. Linear regression analysis showed a strong negative relationship between the percentage reduction of Lp(a) and the serum triglyceride level before treatment (r = -0.78), which implied that for patients with a serum triglyceride concentration above 7.5 mmol l-1 there was a rise of Lp(a). The average individual percentage decrease of the concentration of Lp(a) was calculated after the exclusion of four patients who had serum triglyceride levels above 10 mmol l-1. The decrease was 38% with a 95% confidence interval of 28-47%. The absolute decrease of Lp(a) was correlated with the pretreatment levels of Lp(a) (r = 0.91). Within the whole group of patients there was a linear relationship between the percentage decrease of Lp(a) and that of LDL cholesterol (r = 0.88). This latter strong relationship might be due to an inhibition of the synthesis of the protein common to the two lipoproteins, apolipoprotein B. PMID- 2530299 TI - In vivo T cell tumor therapy with monoclonal antibody directed to the V beta chain of T cell antigen receptor. AB - To test whether antibodies directed to TCR affect T cell tumor growth in vivo, mice were inoculated intravenously with C6VL tumor cells expressing V beta 6 TCR and then treated intraperitoneally with mAb specific for V beta 6 TCR. Administration of anti-V beta 6 antibody prolonged survival of mice bearing V beta 6-expressing tumor cells and it led to the induction of host immunity to the tumor cells in surviving animals. This treatment eliminated not only tumor cells bearing V beta 6 TCR but also normal host T cells expressing V beta 6 T cells receptors. However, the lack of V beta 6-expressing T cells in such treated mice did not result in generalized immune disfunction. These data demonstrate the utility of anti-TCR V segment antibody in the treatment of T cell tumors. Most importantly, since the number of V genes for the T cell antigen receptor is limited, both in man and in mouse, it should be possible to establish a panel of mAbs directed to each V gene product and use such antibodies in the treatment of T cell neoplasms. PMID- 2530301 TI - Identification of a functional NF-kappa B binding site in the murine T cell receptor beta 2 locus. AB - We have identified a sequence in the TCR beta 2 locus that is homologous to the kappa B site in the Ig kappa light chain enhancer. This element, TCR beta-B, is located in the vicinity of previously identified T cell-specific DNase1 hypersensitive sites. Transfection analysis shows that a 60-bp fragment encompassing this site is preferentially active in T cells stimulated with phorbol esters or the HTLV-1 tax gene product compared with a B cell line that constitutively expresses NF-kappa B. Our results provide the first evidence for transcriptional regulatory sequences residing within the J beta 2-C beta 2 intron and suggest the possible involvement of these sequences in modulation of TCR beta gene expression upon cellular activation. PMID- 2530300 TI - The specific interaction of helper T cells and antigen-presenting B cells. IV. Membrane and cytoskeletal reorganizations in the bound T cell as a function of antigen dose. AB - We have used double-immunofluorescence labeling to determine the surface distributions of LFA-1 and CD4, and the intracellular distributions of the cytoskeletal protein talin and of the microtubule organizing center (MTOC) of cloned Th cells in 1:1 cell couples with antigen (Ag)-specific APC of the B cell type (B-APC). The Th cell was directed to a peptide fragment of the Ag OVA in the context of IAd. The B-APC was the transfected A20 B hybridoma cell A20-HL, bearing on its surface a surface Ig specific for the hapten TNP, and pulsed with different concentrations of DNP-OVA. At sufficiently high doses of DNP-OVA (greater than 100 ng/ml), in essentially all couples, LFA-1, CD4, and talin were each concentrated at the Th cell membrane where it was in contact with the B-APC, and the MTOC inside the Th cell was reoriented to face the contact region. At lower doses of DNP-OVA (between 50 and 10 ng/ml), in all couples, LFA-1 and talin were concentrated at the Th/B-APC contact region, but the extent of CD4 clustering, MTOC reorientation, and Th cell proliferation all decreased with decreasing Ag dose. With no Ag, none of these effects was observed. These and other data indicate that two distinct signals are received by the Th cell that is specifically bound to its B-APC. The first signal, at low Ag doses, stimulates a linkage of LFA-1 and talin in the Th cell, and a specific LFA-1-mediated intercellular adhesion; the second signal, at higher Ag doses, is required to induce Th cell proliferation, with which the Th-MTOC reorientation and CD4 clustering are correlated. PMID- 2530303 TI - Semantic priming in the lexical decision task: roles of prospective prime generated expectancies and retrospective semantic matching. AB - In semantic priming paradigms for lexical decisions, the probability that a word target is semantically related to its prime (the relatedness proportion) has been confounded with the probability that a target is a nonword, given that it is unrelated to its prime (the nonword ratio). This study unconfounded these two probabilities in a lexical decision task with category names as primes and with high- and low-dominance exemplars as targets. Semantic priming for high-dominance exemplars was modulated by the relatedness proportion and, to a lesser degree, by the nonword ratio. However, the nonword ratio exerted a stronger influence than did the relatedness proportion on semantic priming for low-dominance exemplars and on the nonword facilitation effect (i.e., the superiority in performance for nonword targets that follow a category name rather than a neutral XXX prime). These results suggest that semantic priming for lexical decisions is affected by both a prospective prime-generated expectancy, modulated by the relatedness proportion, and a retrospective target/prime semantic matching process, modulated by the nonword ratio. PMID- 2530302 TI - Recombinant interleukin 4 suppresses the production of interferon gamma by human mononuclear cells. AB - rIL-4 inhibits the production of IFN-gamma by PBMC stimulated with mitogens or allogeneic cells. The suppression is observed at the protein and at the mRNA level; it is dose and time dependent, and it is abolished by a neutralizing mAb to IL-4. It is suggested that the balance between the production of IL-4 and IFN gamma may be significantly influenced by the chronological order of activation of their respective gene. PMID- 2530304 TI - Effect of backward priming on word recognition in single-word and sentence contexts. AB - Backward priming was investigated under conditions similar to those used in lexical ambiguity research. Subjects received prime-target word pairs that were associated either unidirectionally (BABY-STORK) or bidirectionally (BABY-CRY). In the first experiment, targets were presented 500 ms following the onset of visual primes, and subjects made naming or lexical decision responses to the targets. Forward priming was obtained in all conditions, while backward priming (i.e., priming for pairs in which there was a unidirectional target-to-prime association, as in BABY-STORK) occurred only with lexical decision. In the second experiment, primes were presented auditorily, either in isolation or in a sentence. Targets followed the offset of the primes either immediately or after 200 ms. Backward priming occurred with both response tasks, but only when the prime was an isolated word. In addition, backward priming decreased over time with the naming task, but not with lexical decision. These results suggest that the locus of the backward priming effect is different for the two response tasks. Further, the lack of a backward priming effect with sentence contexts suggests that backward priming cannot account for the demonstrations of multiple access in the lexical ambiguity literature. These results, therefore, support a context independent view of lexical access. PMID- 2530305 TI - On the development of procedural knowledge. AB - Amnesic patients demonstrate by their performance on a serial reaction time task that they learned a repeating spatial sequence despite their lack of awareness of the repetition (Nissen & Bullemer, 1987). In the experiments reported here, we investigated this form of procedural learning in normal subjects. A subgroup of subjects showed substantial procedural learning of the sequence in the absence of explicit declarative knowledge of it. Their ability to generate the sequence was effectively at chance and showed no savings in learning. Additional amounts of training increased both procedural and declarative knowledge of the sequence. Development of knowledge in one system seems not to depend on knowledge in the other. Procedural learning in this situation is neither solely perceptual nor solely motor. The learning shows minimal transfer to a situation employing the same motor sequence. PMID- 2530306 TI - On learning complex procedural knowledge. AB - Lewicki, Czyzewska, and Hoffman (1987) demonstrated learning without awareness in a visual search task. Rules determined target location on every seventh trial on the basis of target locations in the preceding six trials. Learning was demonstrated by negative transfer effects when the rules were changed. When questioned afterwards, the subjects could not describe the rules and denied awareness of them. This experiment was designed to replicate that of Lewicki et al. and to test several hypotheses about this apparent learning without awareness. Transfer conditions were included to determine whether rule learning was primarily perceptual or motor. The present assessment of awareness was based on an objective definition of awareness, rather than a subjective definition as in Lewicki et al.'s study. Their effect was replicated, and the transfer conditions revealed that learning relied on perceptual aspects of the task. The objective measure of awareness provided further evidence that subjects were unaware of the rules. PMID- 2530307 TI - Implicit learning of new verbal associations. AB - Implicit learning of a series of new verbal associations was studied in four experiments. The first two experiments demonstrated that learning of a repeating sequence of verbal stimuli may occur without awareness, but only when the stimulus-response mapping requires an attention-demanding activity: Subjects who were unaware of the sequence learned when instructed to categorize the stimuli, but not when instructed simply to read them. However, in both situations, unaware subjects performed no better than untrained control subjects in expressing their knowledge of the sequence explicitly. In Experiments 3 and 4, subjects showed implicit learning when the task involved either motor responses to verbal stimuli or verbal responses to spatially arranged stimuli. These findings are discussed in terms of the conditions under which implicit learning can be obtained. First, they demonstrate implicit learning of a set of new associations in the verbal domain. Second, the data suggest that attention is important in implicit learning. Finally, the degree of interitem organization that is familiar preexperimentally seems to partially determine the amount of implicit learning. PMID- 2530308 TI - Direct versus indirect tests of memory for source: judgments of modality. AB - We studied the relation between performance on direct versus indirect tests of memory for modality. Subjects read or heard words in a mixed list and then were tested by visual perceptual identification (the indirect test) and direct report of items as read, heard, or new. There was a dependent relation between perceptual identification performance and modality judgments, in accord with the hypothesis that subjects base their judgments of modality on relative perceptual fluency. In Experiment 2, we attempted to change the degree of dependence by providing subjects with an alternative basis for modality judgments. Subjects given a mnemonic to encode modality exhibited less dependence between perceptual identification performance and modality judgments than did subjects who encoded modality incidentally. The relation between direct and indirect tests of memory for source characteristics depends on the basis used for each. PMID- 2530309 TI - Access to knowledge of spatial structure at novel points of observation. AB - Adults were asked to judge the self-to-object directions in a room from novel points of observation that differed from their actual point at times only by a rotation and at other times only by a translation. The results show for the rotation trials that the errors and latencies when a novel point was imagined were worse than the baseline responses from their actual points of observation, and the latencies varied as a function of the magnitude of the to-be-imagined rotation. For the translation trials, on the other hand, the errors and latencies when a novel point was imagined were comparable to the baseline responses from their actual point and did not vary significantly across the different imagined station points. The evidence indicates that subjects know the object-to-object relations directly, without going through the origin of a coordinate system. In addition, similarities in processing during imagination on the one hand, and perception and action on the other are discussed. PMID- 2530310 TI - Recall by expert medical practitioners and novices as a record of processing attention. AB - Using recall of clinical protocols as a measure of expertise in medicine has yielded disappointingly small effects. Experiments using recall of clinical laboratory data are presented to provide an explanation. In one experiment, subjects either deliberately memorized or first diagnosed and then were incidentally asked for memory. With incidental instructions, experts recalled over twice as much data as did students, but with memorization instructions, student performance approximated that of experts. Experts also showed a large advantage over students in incidental recall of data that were not relevant to the problem solution. These results suggest that expert processing in this "discrete, independent inputs" domain requires effortful analysis with minimal reliance on default values, rather than relatively effortless pattern perception reported in highly visual areas of expertise. For this area, intentional memory is a misleading measure of expertise. However, incidental memory is a valuable measure of processing during diagnosis. PMID- 2530311 TI - Effects of age and a divided attention task presented during encoding and retrieval on memory. AB - The present studies were designed to examine age differences in memory when attention was divided during encoding, retrieval, or at both times. In Experiment 1, Ss studied categorized words while performing a number-monitoring task during encoding, retrieval, or at both times. Older Ss' free recall and clustering performance declined more than that of young Ss when attention was divided at encoding, but there was no similar age interaction when divided attention occurred at retrieval. In Experiment 2, the task demands at retrieval were increased by using a fast-paced, cued-recall task. The results remained unchanged from Experiment 1. Again, an age interaction occurred with divided attention at encoding but not at retrieval. These results were unexpected, given the emphasis in the memory-aging literature on increased difficulty of retrieval by older adults. The findings pose difficulties for limited processing resource views of age differences in memory. PMID- 2530312 TI - Effects of item-specific and relational information on hypermnesic recall. AB - The role of encoding conditions in producing hypermnesia (increased recall over successive trials) was examined by manipulating the availability of item-specific and relational information at encoding. Our findings demonstrate that encodings providing item-specific information (e.g., elaborative encodings) produce hypermnesia by facilitating the recovery of new items over trials, whereas encodings providing relational information (e.g., organizational encodings) produce hypermnesia by protecting against the loss of previously recalled items. Thus, the effects of encodings on hypermnesia may be understood by considering the type of trace information they make available. PMID- 2530313 TI - Behavior of animal blood in blood typing systems. Isoelectric focusing of erythrocyte acid phosphatase and phosphoglucomutase. AB - Isoenzyme band patterns of animal blood erythrocyte acid phosphatase (EAP) and phosphoglucomutase-1 (PGM) were studied by isoelectric focusing on ultrathin polyacrylamide gels. For blood from all animals tested (dog, cat, cow, sheep, and goat), the overall band patterns for both isoenzymes were different from those of the most common human types of these enzymes, although some animal EAP and PGM bands appeared in the human band areas. When mixtures of human and animal red blood cells were studied, it was found that misinterpretation of human types was possible only if the overall band pattern of the mixtures was ignored. For the animal blood tested, the strong PGM bands appearing outside the human band areas could be used as "markers" for the possible presence of animal blood in the samples tested. PMID- 2530314 TI - Immunosuppressive compounds from a deep water marine sponge, Agelas flabelliformis. AB - Two immunosuppressive compounds, 4 alpha-methyl-5 alpha-cholest-8-en-3 beta-ol and 4,5-dibromo-2-pyrrolic acid were isolated from a deep water marine sponge, Agelas flabelliformis. Their structures were determined by comparison of their spectral data with those of samples isolated from other organisms. Both compounds were highly active in suppression of the response of murine splenocytes in the two-way mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) with little to no demonstrable cytotoxicity at lower doses. In addition, 4,5-dibromo-2-pyrrolic acid suppressed the proliferative response of splenocytes to suboptimal concentrations of the mitogen, concanavalin A (Con A). These results describe for the first time compounds isolated from the marine sponge A. flabelliformis that possess potent in vitro immunosuppressive activity. PMID- 2530315 TI - Lack of GTP-insensitive D2 dopamine receptors in Huntington's disease. AB - Previous studies have shown that the mammalian neostriatum contains two subtypes of D2 dopamine receptors, which can be distinguished on the basis of the ability of GTP to convert high (RH) into low (RL) affinity sites for dopamine: GTP sensitive (GS) and GTP-insensitive (GI) D2 receptors. The GI-D2 receptors in rat and human neostriatum are confined to the corticostriatal terminals. In rats, these receptors mediate the inhibitory effect of dopamine on the release of glutamate in the striatum. Here we report that the putamen in Huntington's disease (HD) lacks GI-D2 receptors. Their absence might be responsible for an inappropriate release of glutamate, which is neurotoxic in high concentrations, and might thus contribute to striatal cell death in HD. PMID- 2530316 TI - Cell count and ratio of helper/inducer to suppressor/cytotoxic T-cells in the cerebrospinal fluid of patients with multiple sclerosis. AB - The cell count and the helper/inducer to suppressor/cytotoxic T-cell ratio (T4:T8) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were compared in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and other neurological diseases. The T4:T8 ratio was higher in patients with MS than in patients with other neurological diseases. A low or normal CSF cell count was associated with a more significant increase in the T4:T8 ratio in patients with MS. These findings imply that the increased T4:T8 ratio found in MS is masked by an inflammatory pleocytosis or that the shift appears only when pleocytosis is absent. PMID- 2530317 TI - A randomized trial of continuous intravenous versus hepatic intraarterial floxuridine in patients with colorectal cancer metastatic to the liver: the Northern California Oncology Group trial. AB - In 1983, the Northern California Oncology Group (NCOG) instituted a randomized trial of intravenous (IV) versus intraarterial (IA) floxuridine (FUDR) administered via an implantable pump for patients with colorectal cancer metastatic to the liver. The study objectives were to compare the hepatic response rate, time to hepatic progression, and toxicity for the two treatment arms. The study design, which allowed patients failing IV FUDR to crossover to the IA arm, prevents a meaningful comparative analysis of survival. Patients with liver-only metastases (N = 143) were randomized, 76 to the IV arm and 67 to the IA arm, and 115 patients (65 IV, 50 IA) were fully evaluable. Of the 65 patients in the IV arm, 28 crossed over to IA treatment after failing IV FUDR. The dose limiting toxicity of IV FUDR was diarrhea, whereas biliary toxicity limited both the dose and duration of IA FUDR therapy. Of the first 25 patients treated with IA FUDR at a dose of .3 mg/kg/day, 10 developed radiographically evident biliary strictures, and three developed permanent jaundice. With reduction of the initial IA FUDR dose to .2 mg/kg/day, and adoption of a policy of early dosage reduction, treatment interruption, or termination of therapy for persistent elevations in alkaline phosphatase, only two further cases of serious biliary toxicity occurred. However, 26 of the 50 IA FUDR patients ultimately had therapy terminated because of drug toxicity rather than disease progression. When compared with systemic infusion, infusion into the hepatic artery greatly enhanced the antitumor activity of FUDR against colorectal liver metastases. Although biliary toxicity is the most serious limitation of this form of therapy, biliary stricture and jaundice usually can be averted through careful monitoring of liver enzymes and early dosage reduction. PMID- 2530318 TI - Circadian patterning of continuous floxuridine infusion reduces toxicity and allows higher dose intensity in patients with widespread cancer. AB - Continuous long-term 5-fluoro-2'-deoxyuridine (floxuridine; FUDR) infusion frequently causes severe and dose-limiting gastrointestinal toxicity when administered at a constant rate at commonly prescribed dose levels. In preclinical studies, a circadian infusion pattern peaking late in the daily activity phase was better tolerated and had superior antitumor activity than a constant infusion against a transplanted tumor. Based upon these data and upon other chronobiological cytokinetic and pharmacologic considerations, we compared a circadian patterned variable rate infusion with a maximal flow rate in the late afternoon/early evening and minimum flow rate during the early morning hours to a constant rate infusion in 54 patients with widespread cancer. All FUDR infusions were administered using an implanted drug pump. In a pilot crossover study and a second randomized trial, patients with metastatic malignancies treated with equal dose intensities experienced less frequent and less severe diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting following variable rate infusion. In a third study, the dose intensity of variable rate infusion was escalated stepwise to determine the maximum tolerated dose. Patients receiving time-modified FUDR infusion tolerated an average of 1.45-fold more drug per unit time while evincing minimal toxicity. FUDR infusion was found to have activity against progressive metastatic renal cell cancer (RCC). Increased dose intensity achieved by optimal circadian shaping may improve the therapeutic index of infusional FUDR and may help control malignancies that are refractory to conventional chemotherapy. PMID- 2530320 TI - Transluminal angioplasty for treatment of intracranial arterial vasospasm. AB - Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty for treatment of intracerebral arterial vasospasm is now being performed in selected cases. Thirty-six vascular territories in 13 patients, ranging in age from 15 to 73 years, have been treated with a new silicone microballoon device. This balloon has allowed mechanical dilatation of segmental and diffuse areas of spastic intracerebral blood vessels less than 1 mm in diameter with return to normal luminal diameter. Follow-up angiography has documented improved cerebral perfusion without return of spasm. In 10 patients (77%), vasospasm was due to subarachnoid hemorrhage following rupture of an intracranial aneurysm. In three patients (23%), spasm with resultant neurological decline occurred during detachable balloon embolization therapy for treatment of an aneurysm. In each case, the vessel caliber returned to normal size following balloon dilatation. In nine (69%) of the 13 cases, balloon dilatation resulted in improvement of neurological function within minutes to hours following the procedure. Transluminal angioplasty techniques may offer an alternative form of therapy in the management of symptomatic arterial vasospasm. PMID- 2530319 TI - Photoreceptor to horizontal cell synaptic transfer in the Xenopus retina: modulation by dopamine ligands and a circuit model for interactions of rod and cone inputs. AB - 1. In the Xenopus retina, the effects of selective D1 and D2 dopamine ligands on photoreceptor to horizontal cell transfer were studied by intracellular recording from horizontal cell axons. Rod and cone inputs to the horizontal cell were estimated by adjusting the intensities of red and green flashes to elicit equal rod tails. The resultant waveforms were digitized and subtracted, and their difference was taken to reflect solely cone input to the horizontal cell. 2. It was found that both D1 (SKF 38393) and D2 (LY 171555) agonists increased the amplitude and quickened the kinetics of cone-to-horizontal cell transfer; they also depolarized the horizontal cell by 8-10 mV. In contrast, either D1 or D2 agonists reduced the rod input to the horizontal cell without altering its kinetics. 3. Type D2 antagonists reduced and slowed the cone input and hyperpolarized the horizontal cell. D2 antagonists increased the rod input but left its kinetics unchanged. 4. Although both D1 and D2 agonists elicited qualitatively similar effects, the D1 agonist evoked a greater increase in the amplitude and a greater acceleration of the kinetics of the cone input than did the D2 agonist. Moreover, the action of the D1 agonist was blocked by SCH 23390 but not by spiroperidol or metoclopramide, whereas the reverse was true for the D2 agonist. These data indicate that D1 and D2 agonists probably act at different sites. 5. The pharmacologic findings are interpreted to indicate that dopamine ligands act primarily through the cone pathway and that rod-to-horizontal cell transfer is shunted to a variable degree. 6. An equivalent circuit model was developed for a spine-bearing portion of a horizontal cell axon of the Xenopus retina. Anatomic study shows that such spines branch, making contact with both rod and cone photoreceptor bases. Thus there are two conductance pathways in parallel for rod-to-horizontal cell and cone-to-horizontal cell transmission. The model is used to test the hypothesis that mutual shunting in the two pathways can account for the physiological effects observed. 7. The values of the purely resistive elements of the pathway are based on their dimensions. Membrane resistance was taken to be 5,000 omega/cm2 and axial resistance 200 omega/cm. The photoreceptor-to-horizontal cell synaptic battery was taken to be composed of glutamate-sensitive channels, with unitary channel conductance of 6 pS. Channel density was estimated from freeze-fracture data at 5,000 microns-2. A potassium battery and a glycine-sensitive synaptic input from an interplexiform cell were modeled to exist in parallel with the light-sensitive battery. 8. Dopamine was assumed to increase the conductance of the cone-to-horizontal cell synapse, but not to affect the conductance of the rod-to-to-horizontal cell synapse, consistent with physiological measures.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2530321 TI - Angioplasty for the treatment of symptomatic vasospasm following subarachnoid hemorrhage. AB - Angioplasty of narrowed cerebral arteries was performed in 10 patients who became symptomatic from vasospasm following subarachnoid hemorrhage. This procedure was accomplished with a microballoon catheter via percutaneous transfemoral insertion. Patients were selected for treatment if they had delayed neurological deficits due to vasospasm which were not responsive to hypervolemic hypertensive therapy. Eight patients (80%) showed sustained improvement in neurological function following the procedure. In two patients transcranial Doppler ultrasound recordings were obtained which revealed decreased mean blood flow velocities following angioplasty. Two patients died, one from an aneurysmal rebleed, and one secondary to diffuse vasospasm. There was one case of delayed stroke 6 weeks following the procedure. The overall results of this series indicate that in selected cases percutaneous balloon angioplasty can offer marked improvement to patients with ischemic deficits due to vasospasm following subarachnoid hemorrhage. PMID- 2530322 TI - Suing the doctor: lawsuits by injured workers against the occupational physician. AB - Occupational physicians are beginning to learn that they, like other physicians, can be targets for lawsuits. This article attempts to outline the relationship between the workers' compensation system and occupational physicians' personal liability. Consideration is given to potential liability due to malpractice, negligent interference with a workers' contractual relationship with his or her employer, libel and slander, and unauthorized release of information. The requirements of the Occupational Health and Safety Administration for medical examinations and recordkeeping are also highlighted. Finally, the need to clarify the relationship between the doctor, patient/worker, and employer is analyzed. Once the occupational physician recognizes the areas for liability, he or she can take practical steps to minimize his or her exposure. PMID- 2530323 TI - [Experimental study on the air streams in the paranasal sinus]. AB - Air streams in the paranasal sinus were investigated using Nose-Sinus Model to contribute to the fundamental knowledge of aerosol therapy. The results obtained were as follows; 1. The velocity of air streams in the paranasal sinus was measured by Laser Doppler Anemometer and the visualization of streams was done by Laser Light Sheet method. 2. The amount of aerosol passed into the maxillary sinus is approximately in proportion to the sectional area of the ostium. 3. A considerable amount of aerosol passing into the sinus was noted under LLS technique applying positive pressure from the choana. From the above results, it is necessary for the effective entrance of aerosol into the sinus first to open the middle meatus wide and to add the intermittent pressure. PMID- 2530324 TI - Microglial cells in human brain have phenotypic characteristics related to possible function as dendritic antigen presenting cells. AB - The resting human microglia have previously been shown to be cells of dendritic morphology expressing class II MHC antigens and macrophage specific antigens by immunocytochemical techniques. To examine the relationship between the microglia and the family of dendritic antigen presenting cells (APC), normal white matter from eight normal adults with no neurological disease at autopsy was examined by immunocytochemical techniques to localize antibodies to leukocyte common antigen (LCA), HLA-DR, CD1 (T6), CD4 (T4), and glial fibrillary acidic protein. In addition, enzyme histochemical staining for ATPase, non-specific esterase (NSE), and acid phosphatase (ACP) was performed. The normal microglia are ATPase +ve, NSE -ve, ACP -ve, HLA-DR +ve, LCA +ve, CD1 (T6) +ve and weakly CD4 (T4) +ve. This specialized phenotype closely resembles that of Langerhans cells and suggests that microglia are not simply quiescent phagocytes, but may have a primary role as microenvironmentally specialized APC. The finding of weak anti-CD4 (T4) immunoreactivity supports suggestions for a central role for this cell in infection of the central nervous system by human immunodeficiency virus type 1. PMID- 2530325 TI - Left-sided cardiac obstruction in patients with Down syndrome. PMID- 2530326 TI - Alternative approaches to asthma. AB - On the basis of studies of the pathophysiology of asthma, we now know that agents to control chronic asthma must do more than reverse bronchoconstriction caused by a hyperreactive airway. They must also control the inflammatory response engendered by the triggers of asthma. Three types of antiinflammatory agents are now used for this purpose: corticosteroids, cromolyn sodium, and a new anticholinergic drug, ipratropium bromide. These drugs are discussed in terms of their mechanisms of action, clinical uses, and side effects reported in studies of children with asthma. PMID- 2530327 TI - Endocytosis and processing of protein by isolated villus and crypt cells of the mouse small intestine. AB - A small but antigenically significant amount of intact food proteins is absorbed at the intestinal level. These proteins are transported by an endocytotic mechanism mostly in degraded form via the lysosomal pathway of the enterocytes, but those that escape lysosomal degradation appear to be a small fraction of potential food antigens that enter the body. To establish whether protein uptake and processing are similar between mature and immature enterocytes, villus and crypts cells were isolated from the small intestine of adult mice. In each fraction, we measured lysosomal cathepsin activities and cell binding, uptake, and degradation of horseradish peroxidase (HRP). The following results were observed: (a) mice exhibited an increasing villus-to-crypt gradient of cathepsins B and D; (b) binding, internalization and degradation of HRP were twice as high in crypt cells as in villus cells, indicating that the rate of endocytosis in crypt cells doubled; and (c) the percentage of intracellular intact and degraded HRP remained similar in both cell types, suggesting that lysosomal degradation was not the limiting step of endocytosis. Chloroquine and ammonia increased intracellular intact HRP, but monensin did not. These results suggest that intestinal villus and crypt cells do not transfer proteins at the same rate. This may have important biological consequences in physiopathological states in which the crypt/villus ratio is greatly increased. PMID- 2530328 TI - Bile duct stricture in an infant with gastroschisis treated by percutaneous transhepatic drainage, biliary stenting, and balloon dilation. AB - A newborn twin with an antenatal diagnosis of gastroschisis underwent staged repair of the abdominal wall defect. She developed multiple fistulae due to ischemic bowel and then abdominal wall dehiscence requiring additional surgical interventions. Obstructive jaundice, first evident at 3 weeks of age, became progressively severe. A stricture of the common bile duct was diagnosed by percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography. The stricture was treated by percutaneous biliary drainage, biliary stenting, and balloon dilation of the common bile duct. These procedures, commonly used in adults for biliary decompression, may be useful alternatives to surgical intervention in infants and children with obstructive jaundice due to bile duct stricture. PMID- 2530329 TI - Etiology of intestinal damage in gastroschisis. I: Effects of amniotic fluid exposure and bowel constriction in a fetal lamb model. AB - Gastroschisis is often complicated by damage to the herniated small bowel, resulting in motility and absorption disturbances and occasional intestinal necrosis and atresia. To study the pathophysiology of this process, a model of gastroschisis was developed in fetal lambs. At 80 days' gestation, the anterior abdominal wall was partially excised to create a small peritoneal cavity, and the small bowel was extruded through a Silastic ring to create a defect of uniform size. In one experimental group, a tie was placed around the herniated bowel at the level of the abdominal wall to provide gradual constriction as the fetus grew. In a second group, no tie was placed. Control animals had a simple laparotomy and no abdominal wall defect; some also had a constrictor placed around the base of the bowel. The animals were delivered near term, and the bowel was evaluated histologically and by an in-vitro bowel motility assay. Histologic examination showed normal ganglion cells in all groups and no evidence of ischemic injury. A fibrous peel was seen only in bowel exposed to amniotic fluid, with or without a constrictor. Lymphatic and venous dilation, smooth-muscle thickening, and focal mucosal blunting were seen in bowel subjected to chronic obstruction by a constrictor, regardless of whether it was exposed to amniotic fluid. Both constriction of the bowel and amniotic fluid exposure were associated with a decrease in motility; these two effects were independent and additive.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530330 TI - Abdominal wall defect with liver appendage. AB - We present an unusual case in which an appendage of the liver was the only herniated organ through a small defect on the left lower quadrant of the abdominal wall. To our knowledge this is the first case reported with this malformation. PMID- 2530331 TI - Postoperative necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in 10 of 54 (18.5%) infants with gastroschisis. PMID- 2530332 TI - The synergistic effect of human recombinant interferon-alpha 2a in combination with interferon-gamma and the induction of interferon-alpha 2a receptor by interferon-gamma. AB - An in vitro examination was made of the synergistic antiproliferative effect of recombinant interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) with interferon-alpha 2a (IFN-alpha 2a) on human tumor cell lines, including lung small cell carcinoma QG-90, amelanotic melanoma HMV-1, renal carcinoma ACHN and Burkitt lymphoma Daudi. Sixty-four percent of HMV-1 cells and 75% of ACHN cells seeded were killed by treatment with 10 pM and 1000 pM of IFN-gamma, respectively. Furthermore, 69% of HMV-1 cells and 59% of ACHN cells were killed by 1000 pM of IFN-alpha 2a. When HMV-1 was treated first with 10 pM of IFN-gamma, and then with 1000 pM of IFN-alpha 2a, 81% of cells seeded were killed (p less than 0.001). Similarly, 89% of ACHN cells were killed by the same sequential treatment with 1000 pM IFN-gamma, and then of IFN alpha 2a (p less than 0.001). However, adverse sequence of treatment could not produce such a synergistic result. On the surface of these susceptible cells, HMV 1 and ACHN, to both IFNs, the number of receptors for IFN-alpha 2a increased significantly after treatment with IFN-gamma without any serious change of the dissociation constant, suggesting that increase in the number of receptors for IFN-alpha 2a may be the major mechanism of the synergistic effects of IFN-gamma with IFN-alpha 2a. PMID- 2530333 TI - [Echocardiographic features of left ventricular hypertrophy and contractility in malignant hypertension]. AB - To assess the hemodynamic characteristics in malignant hypertension, echocardiography was performed in 18 patients with malignant essential hypertension (MH-I, n = 9) and secondary hypertension (MH-II, n = 9). Patients with benign hypertension with or without left ventricular hypertrophy (n = 8 and 7, respectively), patients with hypertensive heart failure (n = 7) and normotensive volunteers (n = 10) were subjected to controls. Plasma noradrenaline (NA) and renin activity (PRA) were also measured prior to the antihypertensive therapy. There were no significant differences in the durations of hypertension before the malignant phase, and the mean arterial pressure between MH-I and MH II. Although posterior wall thickness (PWTd) in MH-II was similar to that in MH I, interventricular septal thickness (IVSTd) was less marked in MH-II. The plasma NA and PRA were markedly increased in both MH-I and MH-II. End-diastolic dimension (Dd) of the left ventricle was within normal range, but end-systolic dimension (Ds) was significantly increased in MH-I, MH-II and hypertensive heart failure. The moderate decreases in ejection fraction (EF) and mean velocity of circumferential fiber shortening (mVcf) were observed in both MH-I and MH-II. Marked decreases in EF and mVcf were also observed in patients with hypertensive heart failure. The relationship between systolic blood pressure and Dd/PWTd was shifted toward the right and upper portion of the normal relation in MH-I and MH II. The present study demonstrated that the hemodynamic characteristics in malignant hypertension are an inappropriate left ventricular hypertrophy due to a marked increase in systolic stress; dilatation of the left ventricle in systole; and a moderate decrease in ventricular systolic function. It is suggested that a decrease in left ventricular systolic function in malignant hypertension might be due in part to a marked increase in the influence of neurohumoral factors on hemodynamics. PMID- 2530334 TI - [Relations of intracardiac dimensions as measured by echocardiography and plasma atrial natriuretic peptide levels in various cardiovascular diseases]. AB - The correlation between the plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) levels and echocardiographically measured atrial and ventricular dimensions was studied in various cardiovascular diseases. A total of 107 patients (valvular heart disease 27, cardiomyopathy 11, ischemic heart disease 17, hypertension 42, congenital heart disease 2, and normal 8) were studied. None of the patients had overt signs of heart failure, though 22 of them had atrial fibrillation. Left ventricular end diastolic and end-systolic diameters, ejection rate and end-diastolic posterior wall thickness were measured by M-mode echocardiography. Maximal left and right atrial diameters and right ventricular end-diastolic diameter were measured by the apical four-chamber view. Following echocardiographic evaluation and blood pressure measurement, blood sampling was performed via the antecubital vein into a tube containing aprotinin and the samples were analyzed by radioimmunoassay. There was no significant correlation between ANP level and heart rate, systemic blood pressure, left ventricular end-diastolic and end-systolic diameters, ejection fraction, posterior wall thickness or right ventricular end-diastolic diameter. The most probable reason for the insignificant relationships was that the correlation varied according to the underlying cardiovascular diseases; e.g., correlation between ANP level and left ventricular diameter was significantly positive in mitral regurgitation, while it was significantly negative in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. There was a significant correlation between ANP level and the maximal right (r = 0.40, p less than 0.001) or left atrial diameter (r = 0.57, p less than 0.001).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530336 TI - [Electrocardiograms during acute occlusion of the left circumflex artery as compared with that of the right coronary artery]. AB - To assess the characteristic electrocardiographic (ECG) ST changes during acute occlusion of the left circumflex artery (LCX), we observed ECG changes during percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) of the LCX and compared the results with those obtained during right coronary angioplasty. Results were as follows: 1. In the 30 patients who had LCX angioplasty (group LCX), ST-segment elevation occurred most frequently in lead V6 (67.7%) and in lead III (46.7%), but rarely in leads and aVL. ST depression occurred most frequently in lead V3 (80.0%) and in lead V2 (73.3%), but rarely in other leads except for leads I and aVL (23.3%, 33.3%). 2. Four types of ST change in lead combinations were observed. These included: (1) ST elevation in the inferior leads (II, III and aVF), (2) ST elevation in the lateral leads (V5 and V6), (3) ST depression in the anterior leads (V2-V4) and (4) ST depression in the high lateral leads (I and aVL). In group LCX, nine cases (30.0%) manifested all four changes, and six cases (20.0%) revealed only ST depression in the anterior leads without ST changes in other leads. 3. ST depression in the anterior leads and ST elevation in the inferior and lateral leads were observed in nearly equal frequency in patients who received PTCA at the proximal site (Seg. 11) and at the distal site (Seg. 13) in the group LCX. However, ST depression in the high-lateral leads was more frequently observed in the distal than in the proximal cases (66.7% vs 33.3%).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2530335 TI - [Thallium-201 myocardial perfusion imaging during transient coronary occlusion at the time of PTCA: comparison with stress imaging]. AB - To evaluate myocardial perfusion during transient coronary arterial occlusion, thallium-201 was administered intravenously during percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) in 12 patients with effort angina, and the resulting perfusion images were compared with those of exercise stress obtained before PTCA. Thallium-201 was injected at the last inflation of an angioplastic balloon and occlusion was maintained for 60 to 90 sec. Three projections of planar images were obtained immediately after PTCA, using a portable gamma camera in an angiography room. These perfusion images obtained during PTCA and exercise were visually interpreted and compared. Myocardial perfusion defects due to the responsible vessel occlusion were observed at early imaging after PTCA, and were fully redistributed three hrs post injection. In 10 patients without angiographically imaged collateral vessels, there were no significant differences in perfusion between images during PTCA and during exercise. Two patients whose collaterals were observed during coronary angiography before PTCA had higher perfusion scores during PTCA than during exercise. We concluded that intravenous injection of thallium-201 during PTCA is a useful means for assessing alteration of myocardial perfusion due to transient coronary occlusion without increasing the risk of angioplastic procedures, and that it provides more precise information about the jeopardized myocardium, perfused by antegrade blood flow. PMID- 2530337 TI - [In vitro replication of plasmid pKYM]. AB - The crude extract (fraction II) prepared from E. coli could replicate plasmid pKYM, only when the extract contained the rep protein which was produced by the plasmid and essential for its multiplication in vivo. The intermediate of replication was accumulated when a dideoxynucleotide triphosphate was added to the reaction mixture. By analyzing the intermediate, the initiation site of the deoxyribonucleic acid replication and the direction of replication could be determined. The replication initiated inside the ori region of pKYM and the direction was unidirectional. The analysis also suggested that the synthesis of the lagging strand stopped at almost the same site as the initiation site. PMID- 2530338 TI - Characterization of an 125I-labeled thromboxane A2/prostaglandin H2 receptor agonist. AB - Stable synthetic mimetics of thromboxane (TX) A2 and prostaglandin (PG) H2 have been synthesized and reported to stimulate platelets and vascular smooth muscle. The synthetic agonists induce aggregation of isolated platelets and contraction of vascular tissue. The tritiated agonists [3H]U46619 and [3H]U44069 have been used in radioligand binding studies to characterize platelet and vascular smooth muscle TXA2/PGH2 receptors, but have limited usefulness due to their low specific activities and variable specific binding. In an attempt to overcome these problems, we have synthesized a stable, high affinity, 125I-radiolabeled TXA2/PGH2 receptor agonist, [1S-(1 alpha, 2 beta (5Z), 3 alpha(1E,3S*), 4 alpha)] 7-[3-(3-hydroxy-4-(4'-iodophenoxy)-1-butenyl)-7-oxabicyclo - [2.2.1]heptan-2-yl] 5-heptenoic acid (I-BOP). I-BOP induced shape change, increased intracellular free calcium concentrations and aggregated isolated human platelets (EC50 = 0.21 +/- 0.05 nM, n = 3; 4.1 +/- 1.1 nM, n = 4; 10.8 +/- 3 nM, n = 9, respectively). The kinetically determined Kd was 1.02 +/- 0.33 nM (kobs = 0.19 +/- 0.05 min-1, k 1 = 0.097 +/- 0.02 min-1, k1 = 0.119 +/- 0.03 min-1 M, n = 4). Equilibrium binding studies of [125I]BOP to isolated human platelets indicated one class of high affinity sites, Kd = 2.2 +/- 0.3 nM and a maximum binding of 0.028 +/- 0.002 x 10(-12) mol/10(7) platelets (1699 +/- 162 sites/platelet, n = 9).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530339 TI - Importance of central nervous system serotonin-1A receptors for mediating the hypotensive effect of urapidil. AB - Urapidil is thought to lower blood pressure by both a peripheral and a central mechanism. The former effect is caused by blockade of alpha-1 adrenoceptors whereas the latter effect has been shown to occur in the medulla, specifically at the intermediate area on the ventral surface of the medulla. The receptor mediating the central effect is not the alpha-1 adrenoceptor, but has been postulated to be the serotonin (5-HT)1A receptor. To determine whether urapidil lowers blood pressure by stimulating 5-HT1A receptors at the intermediate area, we applied urapidil bilaterally (50 micrograms/side) to the intermediate area of chloralose-anesthetized cats while monitoring arterial blood pressure and heart rate. Application of urapidil caused decreases in mean blood pressure and heart rate of 66 +/- 8 mm Hg and 31 +/- 7 beats/min, respectively. Pretreatment with the 5-HT1A and 5-HT2 receptor antagonist, spiperone (30 micrograms/side), counteracted the effects of urapidil. Pretreatment with the 5-HT2 receptor antagonist, ketanserin, did not alter the hypotensive effect of urapidil. Urapidil given i.v. in a dose of 2 mg/kg decreased mean blood pressure and heart rate by 53 +/- 6 mm Hg and 10 +/- 2 beats/min, respectively. At the peak of the i.v. response, spiperone (30 micrograms/side) was applied to the intermediate area and increased mean blood pressure and heart rate by 52 +/- 6 mm Hg and 20 +/ 4 beats/min, respectively, thus effectively reversing the effects of i.v. urapidil.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530340 TI - Phorbol esters and D2-dopamine receptors. AB - 4-beta-Phorbol-12,13-dibutyrate (PDBu), a powerful activator of protein kinase C (PKC), enhanced dopamine (DA) release evoked by electrical stimulation (1 Hz, 2 min) from the striatum and the prefrontal cortex of the rabbit. However, acetylcholine (ACh) release from the striatum (1 Hz, 2 min), was only enhanced slightly by PDBu. The increase in DA release induced by PDBu was reduced markedly at higher frequencies of stimulation. Sulpiride (10 microM) alone, a D2 DA receptor antagonist, or combined with nomifensine (3 microM), a neuronal-uptake inhibitor, did not prevent PDBu-induced facilitation of DA release from prefrontal cortex or striatum. The D2 DA agonists (LY-171555, bromocriptine and apomorphine) inhibited in a concentration-dependent manner the stimulation-evoked overflow of DA and ACh from the striatum, and of DA from the prefrontal cortex. Pretreatment with PDBu antagonized the inhibitory effect of the three agonists on DA and ACh release. A reduction both in Emax and IC50 was observed in PDBu treated slices. Removal of endogenous DA by pretreatment with reserpine and alpha methyl-p-tyrosine, failed to prevent PDBu-induced antagonism of apomorphine effects on ACh release, indicating that the antagonism of agonist effects was not due to higher synaptic levels of endogenous DA. The inactive enantiomer of PDBu, 4-alpha-12,13-dibutyrate did not enhance DA release and failed to modify the effects of D2 agonists on DA release.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530341 TI - Activity of selective dopamine DA1 and DA2 agonists and antagonists on experimental gastric lesions and gastric acid secretion. AB - Selective dopamine (DA) DA1 and DA2 receptor agonists and antagonists were examined for their effects on cold-stress gastric lesions, 100% ethanol gastric lesions and basal gastric acid secretion. The selective DA1 agonist SKF 38393 [R (+)-1-phenyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-(1H)-3-benzazepine-7,8-diol.HCl] attenuated cold stress and ethanol lesions and blocked basal acid output. The protective effects of SKF 38393 were reversed by the cyclooxygenase inhibitors indomethacin, sodium meclofenamate, by the peripherally selective DA receptor antagonist domperidone and by the tissue sulfhydryl blocker, N-ethylmaleimide. The DA1 antagonist, SCH 23390, worsened lesion formation and augmented gastric acid secretion. N-0437 [S (-)-2-N-propyl-N-2-thienylethylamino)-5-hydroxytetralin], a DA2 agonist, was less potent than SKF 38393 at reducing experimental gastric lesion formation, but slightly more potent at attenuating gastric secretion. The DA2 antagonist, eticlopride, was inactive in all models. Based upon these in vivo data, we suggest that: 1) the gut DA receptor may be of the DA1 subtype and 2) that activation of gut DA1 receptors produces gastroprotection by several mechanisms, at least one of which is by reducing gastric acid output. PMID- 2530342 TI - Antiluteolytic effects of blastocyst-secreted interferon investigated in vitro and in vivo in the sheep. PMID- 2530343 TI - Laparoscopic management of adnexal torsion. A review of 35 cases. AB - Laparoscopic management was used for 35 cases of adnexal torsion. Since early diagnosis and treatment are necessary to preserve the adnexa, laparoscopy is the best procedure for diagnosing this rare condition. In 27 cases (77%) conservative treatment was carried out, with only 1 recurrence. Complete laparoscopic treatment was achieved in 27 cases (77%), including 3 of endoscopic salpingectomy. Laparotomy was indicated in cases of gangrenous adnexa, organic ovarian cyst and unusual ovarian attachment. PMID- 2530345 TI - Selective loss of the CD4+ inducers of suppressor T cell subsets (2H4+) in active systemic lupus erythematosus. AB - We investigated 2H4+ and 4B4+ T cell subsets from the purified CD4+ helper/inducer and CD8+ suppressor/cytotoxic T cells in circulating blood of 15 patients with severe active systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), 6 patients with inactive SLE, 5 patients with rheumatoid arthritis and seven healthy controls. The percentage of the total CD4+ T cells increased and CD8+ T cells decreased in all patients with active SLE. Of interest, however, all the patients with active SLE and central nervous system (CNS) disease had a selective decrease in the percentage of CD4+ 2H4+ T cell subsets in circulating blood that is responsible for induction of the CD8+ suppressor T cells. This loss of the CD4+ 2H4+ T cells was accompanied by an increase in the CD4+ 4B4+ T cell subsets, that are the true helper/inducers providing help for B cell immunoglobulin production. A marked decrease in the CD4+ 2H4+ cell subsets in the circulating blood of all patients with severe active SLE and CNS disease is related with meaningful functional properties of the T cells in an abnormal immune system. PMID- 2530344 TI - Necessity for routine obstetric screening for hepatitis B surface antigen. AB - Routine serologic testing of pregnant women in a predominantly Hispanic population at the Los Angeles County Medical Center revealed that 8 of 2,000 were positive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBSAg). Only two of the eight women had a risk factor as currently defined by the Centers for Disease Control. Screening of all pregnant women is necessary to identify those HBSAg-positive women capable of transmitting the hepatitis B virus to their infants. All the other obstetric surveys reviewed support the need to screen obstetric patients and to provide immunoprophylaxis to the infants at risk of perinatal infection. This policy is necessary to prevent perinatal transmission of hepatitis B virus and is cost effective. PMID- 2530346 TI - Polyarthritis associated with cutaneous T cell lymphoma. AB - This is the first reported synovial biopsy of a patient with concurrent onset of cutaneous T cell lymphoma and polyarthritis. The biopsy revealed a nonspecific chronic inflammatory process. Immunoperoxidase technique using monoclonal antibodies showed a mixture of helper T cells, suppressor T cells and B cells in the synovial infiltrate. Tumor infiltration was not seen. Our findings indicate that the arthritis associated with cutaneous T cell lymphoma is most likely a reactive phenomenon. PMID- 2530347 TI - Importance of early diagnosis of acute spinal extradural abscess. PMID- 2530348 TI - Changes in protein C and free protein S during pregnancy and following hysterectomy. AB - Two longitudinal studies were undertaken to measure the naturally occurring coagulation inhibitors, protein C and protein S, in females who were either pregnant or who were undergoing hysterectomy. Functional and immunological protein C and free protein S were assayed. During pregnancy, protein C levels remained unchanged except for a small increase in protein C antigen at 28-32 weeks gestation. The free protein S fell significantly and progressively during pregnancy, although only in about one-third of patients did the level fall below the normal range. In the hysterectomy study, a significant fall in protein C occurred on days one and three after surgery but had returned to normal by the time of discharge (days 7-10). A small rise in free protein S was observed at time of discharge, but this factor was otherwise unchanged. We conclude that the changes observed may contribute to the hypercoagulable state which is associated with pregnancy or major surgery. PMID- 2530349 TI - Clinical and radiological features of pseudomyxoma peritonei. AB - Pseudomyxoma peritonei is due to diffuse involvement of the peritoneal cavity with mucinous material. Four patients were found in two major general hospitals in Riyadh. All patients were male. Cardinal clinical features were abdominal distension, pain and weight loss. Computed tomography was helpful preoperatively. Laparoscopy or laparotomy were performed to arrive at a correct diagnosis. PMID- 2530350 TI - Recognition and treatment of abdominal wall pain. AB - In some patients with abdominal pain, the source of the pain may be the abdominal wall. A simple test is described which allows these patients to be identified and treated with injections of local anaesthetic and steroid. Twenty-six patients were studied, 20 of whom were available for follow-up. Sixteen of these 20 were symptom free or improved at a median follow-up period of 29 months. Failure to recognize abdominal wall pain may lead to unnecessary investigation. PMID- 2530351 TI - Successful treatment of infertility using laparoscopic intraperitoneal sperm insemination (LIPSI) with follicular puncture. PMID- 2530352 TI - Synthesis and biological properties of N63-carboxamides of teicoplanin antibiotics. Structure-activity relationships. AB - The condensation of the carboxyl function of teicoplanin A2 (CTA) and its acidic hydrolysis pseudoaglycons (TB, TC) and aglycon (TD) with amines carrying various functional groups and chains produced amide derivatives with different isoelectric points and lipophilicities. Amide formation did not affect the ability of these compounds to bind to Ac2-L-Lys-D-Ala-D-Ala, a model for the natural peptide binding site in bacterial cell walls. The antimicrobial activities of teicoplanin amides were found to depend mostly on their ionic and lipophilic character and on the type and number of sugars present. Positively charged amides were generally more in vitro active than the respective unmodified antibiotics against Gram-positive organisms. In particular, most basic amides of CTA were markedly more active than teicoplanin against coagulase-negative staphylococci. A few amides of TC and most of those of TD also showed a certain activity against Gram-negative bacteria. In experimental Streptococcus pyogenes septicemia in the mouse, some basic amides were more active than the parent teicoplanins when administered subcutaneously. Some of those of CTA were also slightly more effective than teicoplanin by oral route. PMID- 2530353 TI - Processing of mitochondrial RNA in Aspergillus nidulans. AB - Genes for cytochrome oxidase subunit I (oxiA), ATPase subunit 9, NADH dehydrogenase subunit 3 (ndhC) and cytochrome oxidase subunit II (oxiB) are located within a 7.2 kb (1 kb = 10(3) bases or base-pairs) segment of the Aspergillus nidulans mitochondrial genome. Northern hybridization shows that abundant RNA molecules of 4.0, 2.5 and 1.5 kb, each containing copies of two or more genes, are transcribed from this region. The 4.0 kb molecule, which contains copies of each of the four genes but lacks the three oxiA introns, is cleaved at a point just upstream from ndhC to give rise to the 2.5 kb RNA, which contains copies of oxiA and the ATPase subunit 9 gene, and the 1.5 kb RNA, which carries ndhC and oxiB. The ATPase subunit 9 gene, which has no identified function, is therefore transcribed into an abundant RNA. S1 nuclease analysis indicates that there are no additional introns in the amino-terminal region of oxiA and that the 4.0 and 2.5 kb transcripts of this gene have staggered 5' termini, the most upstream of which is adjacent to the 3' end of the histidinyl-tRNA gene. The results suggest that transcription of this genome proceeds via a very limited number of primary transcripts with mature RNAs produced by extensive processing events including tRNA excision. RNA synthesis and processing in A. nidulans mitochondria therefore resembles the events occurring in metazoa rather than yeast. PMID- 2530354 TI - Cleaving the prohead RNA of bacteriophage phi 29 alters the in vitro packaging of restriction fragments of DNA-gp3. AB - In vitro packaging of restriction fragments of the bacteriophage phi 29 DNA-gp3 (DNA-gene product 3 complex) in the defined system was dependent on prohead RNA. Truncated prohead RNAs were obtained by in situ RNase A digestion, isolated and sequenced. Proheads having the intact 174 base RNA were compared to proheads having RNAs of 120, 95, 71, 69 or 54 bases for the capacity to package the DNA gp3 left and right ends and internal (non-end) fragments generated by the restriction enzymes EcoRI, HpaI and BstNI. Proheads with the 174 or 120 base RNAs packaged both left and right ends; internal fragments were packaged more efficiently by proheads with the 120 base RNA. Proheads with the 95 base RNA packaged DNA-gp3 left ends and internal fragments efficiently, but lost the capacity to package right ends. Only internal fragments were packaged by proheads with the 71 base RNA, and proheads having 69 or 54 base RNAs were inactive. RNA free proheads were effectively reconstituted with purified 174 and 120 base RNAs to produce particles similar in biological activity to the proheads from which the RNAs were isolated. The 95 base RNA was the smallest RNA of the group that could reconstitute the prohead and direct fragment packaging, although packaging was inefficient. Alteration of the specificity of DNA fragment packaging with truncated prohead RNAs has delineated RNA domains that function in DNA-gp3 recognition and prohead binding. PMID- 2530355 TI - Organization and structure of the Methanococcus transcriptional unit homologous to the Escherichia coli "spectinomycin operon". Implications for the evolutionary relationship of 70 S and 80 S ribosomes. AB - By means of an immunological approach and a subsequent chromosome-walking strategy a chromosomal region encoding ribosomal proteins in the archaebacterium Methanococcus vannielii was cloned. The determination of the nucleotide sequence of the 7.8 x 10(3) base DNA fragment revealed the existence of 14 putative ribosomal protein genes and two unidentified open reading frames. They are organized in a transcriptional unit that is very similar to the Escherichia coli "spectinomycin operon" in respect of both gene composition and gene order. The Methanococcus transcriptional unit contains, in addition to those genes whose products have a homologue in the E. coli operon, three genes whose products share sequence similarity with eukaryotic 80 S but not with eubacterial ribosomal proteins. The Methanococcus ribosomal proteins almost exclusively exhibit a higher sequence similarity to eukaryotic 80 S ribosomal proteins than to those of eubacteria and many of them have a size intermediate between those of their eukaryotic and eubacterial homologues. These results are discussed in terms of a hypothesis that implies that the recent eubacterial ribosome developed by a "minimization" process from a more complex organelle and that the archaebacterial ribosome has maintained features of this ancestor. PMID- 2530356 TI - Repression of the lambda pcin promoter by integrative host factor. AB - The cin-1 mutation creates a new promoter (pcin) in the tR1 region of bacteriophage lambda. The pcin promoter transcribes the cI repressor gene constitutively. lambda cin-1 does not propagate on Escherichia coli mutants lacking the integrative host factor (IHF). lambda cI- cin-1 grows normally in IHF mutants, indicating that repressor overproduction from pcin blocks lytic growth. The presence of an IHF binding site which overlaps the pcin promoter led us to the hypothesis that IHF functions as a repressor of pcin transcription. We find that the pcin promoter is fivefold more active in a host lacking IHF than in wild type cells. In vitro studies show that IHF directly inhibits transcription initiation at pcin. Abortive initiation and gel retardation assays demonstrate that IHF interferes with the binding of RNA polymerase to the pcin promoter. RNA polymerase bound in an open promoter complex is resistant to IHF. We propose that IHF binding to the pcin promoter region blocks the binding of RNA polymerase to the promoter, either by covering specific nucleotides or by distorting DNA structure. PMID- 2530357 TI - In vitro packaging of bacteriophage phi 29 DNA restriction fragments and the role of the terminal protein gp3. AB - Restriction fragments of bacteriophage phi 29 DNA-gp3 (DNA-gene product 3 complex) were packaged in a completely defined in vitro system that included purified proheads, the DNA packaging protein gp16 and ATP. Both left and right end DNA-gp3 fragments were packaged in this system, in contrast to the oriented and selective packaging of left end DNA-gp3 fragments in extracts; left ends could be packaged quantitatively in the defined system, while the packaging efficiency of right ends was generally about threefold lower. In addition, certain internal (non-end) DNA fragments were packaged at efficiencies of about 10% to 15%. Digestion of the gp3 with trypsin or proteinase K reduced the packaging of whole-length DNA by a factor of 2 or 4, respectively, and removal of the gp3 from whole-length DNA or end fragments with piperidine reduced packaging to the level of internal fragments. Though the terminal protein gp3 was non essential for DNA translocation in the defined system, it stimulated packaging of left and right end fragments, and stabilized packaging of the left end. The packaging of end and internal DNA fragments of the related phage M2Y into phi 29 proheads was similar to that of phi 29 DNA fragments, and certain fragments of lambda DNA were packaged at the efficiency of the internal phi 29 DNA fragments. Selective packaging of DNA-gp3 left ends was restored by the addition of bacterial cell extracts or glycerol to the defined system, and these packaging conditions discriminated between phi 29 and M2Y DNAs that have distinct terminal proteins. PMID- 2530358 TI - Protein synthesis and degradation during regression of thyroxine-induced cardiac hypertrophy. AB - To characterize changes in rates of protein turnover during regression of thyroxine-induced left ventricular hypertrophy, New Zealand White rabbits received intravenous thyroxine (200 micrograms/kg/d) for 9 days. Thyroxine was withheld, and in vivo protein turnover was evaluated on the 10th, 15th and 20th days. Animals not receiving thyroxine served as controls. Heart rate, blood pressure, and rate-pressure product were measured to correlate changes in cardiac work with protein turnover rates during the development and regression of hypertrophy. Thyroxine administration produced left ventricular hypertrophy by increasing the rate of protein synthesis (from 37.9 +/- 8.9 to 64.1 +/- 15.3 mg/day; P less than 0.05) to a greater degree than protein degradation (from 29.8 +/- 8.9 to 48.2 +/- 15.3 mg/day for control and thyroxine-treated animals, respectively; P less than 0.05). Cessation of thyroxine administration resulted in an eventual return of left ventricular mass to that of normally growing control animals. The major observation noted during thyroxine withdrawal was a return of protein synthetic rates to normal. Absolute rates of protein degradation remained elevated, whereas fractional protein degradative rates (i.e. the fraction of total protein degraded per day) were unchanged by the administration and withdrawal of thyroxine. These results indicate that suppression of both physiological and hormone-induced growth following cessation of thyroxine resulted from a decrease in cardiac protein synthetic rates and an increased rate of flux through the protein degradative pathway(s), while fractional rates of protein degradation (and thus average protein half-life) remained unchanged. The development and regression of thyroxine-induced hypertrophy correlated with thyroxine-mediated alterations in cardiac work. PMID- 2530359 TI - Cardiomegaly in neonatal rats exposed to 500 ppm carbon monoxide. AB - Increased hemodynamic workload was induced in growing neonatal rats to study alterations in myocyte structure and number and to determine if carbon monoxide (CO) produced a volume-induced model of cardiomegaly. Newborn rats were exposed to 500 ppm CO for up to 32 days of age, at which time the remaining CO exposed rats and ambient air controls continued development in room air to 200 days of age. In the CO group, ventricular weight to body weight ratio was 26% greater than controls at 6 days of age, more than double at 15 days, and remained 47% greater at 28 days. Although absolute myocyte volumes were not different between the two groups at any time period, the CO group did have greater myocyte volume relative to body weight during the CO exposure period. Binucleated myocytes of both ventricles were longer than controls during the exposure period, but did not have increased width. By 200 days of age, myocytes from left ventricle plus septum of CO exposed rats were significantly shorter and CO exposed rats had more total myocytes than controls (36 x 10(6) versus 32 x 10(6) for controls, P less than 0.05). In this study, cardiomegaly induced by 500 ppm CO from birth to 32 days of age was primarily due to myocyte hypertrophy with myocytes having increased length to width ratios (i.e., alterations consistent with a volume induced model). Following removal from CO exposure, there was regression of both cardiomegaly and myocyte hypertrophy. With increasing time after removal from CO, myocytes tended to become shorter and smaller compared to age matched controls. This trend was present at 105 days and statistically significant by 200 days of age, resulting in an increased number of myocytes in the myocardium long after removal of rats from CO exposure. We conclude that neonatal exposure to CO causes cardiomegaly by increase in cell length and cell volume, consistent with a volume overload model of cardiac hypertrophy. PMID- 2530361 TI - Re: The combination of cyproterone acetate and low dose diethylstilbestrol in the treatment of advanced prostatic carcinoma. PMID- 2530360 TI - Evidence for testicular impairment after long-term treatment with a luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone agonist in elderly men. AB - Testicular responsiveness to 5,000 IU of human chorionic gonadotropin was evaluated in 14 patients with prostate cancer who were being treated with a slow release luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone agonist for a median of 21 months. Serum testosterone response to human chorionic gonadotropin was markedly reduced in most patients, with the median level increasing from 0.25 to 1.65 nmol. per l. A second human chorionic gonadotropin test was repeated later in 5 patients who had been off treatment for a median of 6 months. Median serum testosterone levels increased to a maximum of 2.6 nmol. per l. compared to 28.2 nmol. per l. in an age-matched control group (p equals 0.008). Therefore, we conclude that long-term treatment with luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone agonists in elderly men leads to gonadal impairment that may not be as reversible as generally suggested. PMID- 2530362 TI - Bladder neck suspension material investigated in a rabbit model. AB - Different principles for providing stable and durable suspension of the bladder neck and proximal urethral tissue are employed in endoscopic bladder neck suspension for female stress urinary incontinence. Six different anchor materials, some of which are currently used as tissue bolsters (anchors) for endoscopic bladder neck suspension, were implanted in the abdominal wall muscle of 45 rabbits. Tension on the anchors was measured and maintained by springs positioned between pairs of anchors. At two months evaluation, vascular graft and loops of suture retained 40% of the starting tension, while two sizes of screw anchors lost all tension. Silicone pads and kink free silicone tubing rapidly pulled through the tissue in 83% and 100% of the cases, respectively. Local tissue reaction with scar formation, physical characteristics of the anchor material (silicone, stainless steel, dacron or polypropolene) and cross sectional area of the anchor were identified as the important factors for anchor stabilization of tissue which has been repositioned under tension. PMID- 2530363 TI - Photodynamic therapy triggers cytotoxic drug retained to greater degree by cancer cells. PMID- 2530364 TI - Intradermal inoculation with Heptavax-B. Immune response and histologic evaluation of injection sites. AB - The high cost of hepatitis B vaccine has limited its widespread use. Low-dose, intradermal injections of vaccine represent one option for reducing the cost. In this study, 92 nonimmune medical students were given three 0.1-mL intradermal injections of Heptavax-B containing 2 micrograms of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) at 0, 1, and 6 months. By 6 months, 90% of the subjects had developed protective levels of antibody to HBsAg (greater than or equal to 10 mIU/mL). Follow-up at 1 year showed a geometric mean concentration of antibodies to HBsAg of 396 mIU/mL for the group, and 95% had levels of antibody to HBsAg greater than or equal to 10 mIU/mL. A level of antibody to HBsAg of greater than 100 mIU/mL also was observed in more than 75% of subjects. Side effects included induration of the inoculation site in 18% at 6 months, which disappeared by 12 months, and macules that persisted at 1 year in 63%. The administration of hepatitis B vaccine intradermally is an attractive, low-cost alternative in the United States, where universal vaccination of preschool children or adolescents is being contemplated, and where booster doses are being considered. PMID- 2530365 TI - The safety of roundup pesticide. PMID- 2530366 TI - Systemic and local allergic reactions to the tine test purified protein derivative. PMID- 2530367 TI - Immunohistochemical localization and semi-quantification of atrial natriuretic polypeptide (ANP) in formalin-fixed-paraffin-embedded normal human hearts- comparative study with radioimmunoassay. AB - The presence of atrial natriuretic polypeptide (ANP) was immunohistochemically demonstrated in the formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded tissues of 25 autopsied normal human hearts using monoclonal antibody. The ANP amounts were immunohistochemically semiquantified and compared with amounts measured by radioimmunoassay (RIA). The 25 autopsied hearts were divided into 5 groups according to the interval of formalin fixation or the length of time between death and fixation. Formalin-fixation intervals were one week in group 1A and 1B; 1 year in group 2; 4 to 5 years in group 3 and 10 to 12 years in group 4. The hearts of group 1A, 2, 3 and 4 were fixed within 5 hours after death. Those of group 1B were fixed 14 to 18 hours at 4 degrees C. After fixation, the left and right atrial appendages (LAA and RAA), the left and right atrial free walls (LA and RA), the left and right ventricular free walls (LV and RV) and the ventricular septum (VS) were transmurally dissected from each heart. They were embedded in paraffin, cut into 4 microns sections and immunohistochemically stained by the avidin-biotin-peroxidase complex (ABC) method using monoclonal antibody against alpha-human ANP. Under a light microscope, they were evaluated semiquantitatively according to the incidence of ANP-positive cells and the intensity of immunostaining. For every heart in group 1A, the tissue concentrations of ANP in the different parts were also measured separately by RIA before fixation. ANP-positive myocytes were noted in the atria of all hearts of all groups, but no in any ventricular myocytes. Both their incidence and grade in the atria were similar among groups 1A, 1B and 2. However, they were less in group 3, and least in group 4 among all groups. For all groups, they decreased in the following order: LAA greater than RAA not equal to LA greater than RA; the inner 1/3 greater than the middle 1/3 greater than the outer 1/3 of the atrial walls. The order in LAA, RAA, LA and RA.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530368 TI - No specific organ removes atrial natriuretic peptide from the human plasma. AB - The fate of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) was studied by arterial and venous catheterization in ischemic heart disease patients, and arterio-venous blood sampling in healthy kidney donors at the time of transplantation. In vitro ANP degradation was examined using healthy human plasma. In ischemic heart disease, the plasma ANP concentration at the inferior vena cava was 62.6% of that at the left ventricle, and that at the superior vena cava was 82.8%. Arterio-venous gradients were similar from pulmonary artery to vein (88.3%), from celiac artery to the hepatic vein (75.5%) and from the femoral artery to vein (85.4%). In the donor for kidney transplantation, renal arterio-venous gradient was also similar at 77.1%. No platelet consumption of ANP was noted, and the molecular forms of ANP present in the circulation were similar in samples obtained from both the coronary sinus and the superior or inferior vena cava. We conclude that no specific organ plays a dominant role in ANP degradation, and that ANP molecular forms may not be altered during circulation. PMID- 2530369 TI - Study of cardiac hypertrophy--humoral factors that stimulate protein metabolism of cultured rat heart cells. AB - Recent extensive studies suggested that some humoral factors may contribute to the development and/or reversal of cardiac hypertrophy in hypertension. The purpose of this study is to examine whether there exists humoral factor(s) for cardiac hypertrophy in experimental perinephritic hypertension in dogs. Hypertension was induced by the method of Page with some modifications. Humoral factors were studied using a microassay system that was independent of pressure overload, hemodynamic effects, and other factors. L(-)-isoproterenol (ISO) and angiotensin II (AngII) increased the uptake of 3H-uridine into 10-day-old cultured heart cells. The maximal response to ISO or AngII was obtained by 10(-5) M ISO or 10(-10) M AngII, and the percent increments in the uptake of 3H-uridine was 38.4 +/- 20.4%, and 45.1 +/- 22.5%, respectively. Moreover, ISO, DL noradrenaline, and AngII stimulated protein synthesis of 7-day-old or 14-day-old cultured heart cells in this order (9.5 +/- 1.5, 7.3 +/- 1.2, 2.0 +/- 0.5 micrograms/6 x 10(5) by 7-day-old heart cells; 23.8 +/- 8.3, 19.0 +/- 9.4, 4.4 +/ 1.1 micrograms/6 x 10(5) by 14-day-old heart cells). Heart and kidney extracts were obtained from experimental perinephritic hypertensive dogs and sham-operated dogs. The heart extract obtained from hypertrophied left ventricle (LV) of the experimental hypertensive dogs, but not of the sham-operated dogs, increased the uptake of 3H-uridine into 10-day-old heart cells. The mean percent increment in uptake of 3H-uridine induced by the hypertrophied LV heart extract at a final concentration of 5 x 10(-3)% V/V (1-3 micrograms) in different experiments was about 15%. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) demonstrated that the LV heart extract obtained from the perinephritic hypertensive dogs contained at least 16 molecules. Among them, one with a molecular weight of approximately 11,200 daltons stimulated uptake of both 3H-uridine and 14C-leucine into cultured heart cells. These results demonstrated that heart extract obtained from hypertrophied LV of perinephritic hypertensive dogs contained at least one factor which may induce and/or modulate myocardial hypertrophy in this model for hypertension. PMID- 2530370 TI - [Effects of surgical intervention on plasma levels of antidiuretic hormone and alpha-human atrial natriuretic polypeptide under sevoflurane anesthesia]. AB - Effects of surgical intervention on plasma levels of antidiuretic hormone (ADH) and alpha-human atrial natriuretic polypeptide (alpha-hANP) under sevoflurane nitrous oxide-oxygen anesthesia were evaluated in 24 patients, ranged in ages from 15 to 65, who underwent non-abdominal surgery (orthopedic surgery) or abdominal surgery (gastrointestinal or gynecological surgery). Anesthesia was induced and maintained with sevoflurane, nitrous oxide and oxygen. Succinylcholine was administered to facilitate tracheal intubation and pancuronium was given during abdominal surgery when needed. Lactated Ringer's solution was administered intravenously throughout the procedures. Neither plasma ADH nor alpha-hANP levels changed significantly during sevoflurane anesthesia alone for 20 min. Plasma ADH levels were unchanged during surgery in patients who underwent non-abdominal surgery, but they tended to increase although insignificantly after the recovery from anesthesia. On the contrary, plasma ADH levels increased significantly during surgery and in the recovery room in patients who underwent abdominal surgery. Plasma alpha-hANP levels were unchanged during surgery and in the recovery room in patients who underwent non-abdominal or abdominal surgery. The authors' findings suggest that ADH secretion was significantly stimulated with abdominal intervention but not with orthopedic one, furthermore neither anesthesia nor surgical stress induced any influence on plasma alpha-hANP levels. PMID- 2530371 TI - Lack of venodilative activity of alpha human atrial natriuretic polypeptide in patients with congestive heart failure. AB - We studied the effect of alpha human atrial natriuretic polypeptide (hANP) on venous vessels by occlusion plethysmography in 7 patients with congestive heart failure. In another 8 patients the effect of nitroglycerin was studied to validate the methodology. Forearm venous pressure (VP) and volume change (delta V) were measured simultaneously. The relationship between venous pressure and volume change was described by the equation VP = C x e(K x delta V) (r = 0.98 +/- 0.01) and the venous stiffness constant (K) was calculated. Alpha human atrial natriuretic polypeptide (0.1 microM/kg/min) was infused intravenously at a dose sufficient to cause arteriodilation. The pressure-volume curve of the peripheral veins was shifted rightward on the volume axis and the stiffness constant (K) was decreased (-28.1%, p less than 0.03) significantly by nitroglycerin. Alpha human atrial natriuretic polypeptide significantly decreased systemic vascular resistance but did not shift the pressure-volume curve of the vein nor did it decrease the stiffness constant (K). We conclude that hANP has far less venodilating effect than arteriodilating effect in congestive heart failure patients. PMID- 2530372 TI - [T cell subsets as a prognostic factor in the chronic phase of chronic myelogenous leukemia]. AB - A relationship between the survival time and T cell subsets in the chronic phase of chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) studied by the method using monoclonal antibodies. No statistic difference between normal and CML was recognized in the rate of pan-T cell. The high T-Helper/Suppressor ratio (TH/TS) was revealed in the cases of the long survival time for more than six years. PMID- 2530373 TI - [Kidney tubular transport disorders. Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus]. PMID- 2530374 TI - [Embolization of the lumbar artery for pelvic fracture]. AB - Bleeding from the lumbar artery could be a major source of hemorrhage in a patient with massive blood loss associated with pelvic fracture. Embolization of injured lumbar artery should be attempted since hemorrhaging from the lumbar artery could be a cause of potentially life-threatening retroperitoneal hemorrhage. Selective lumbar arteriography is often helpful to diagnose bleeding from a lumbar artery, which is occasionally overlooked in pelvic aortography. We have not experienced any complications from using gelatin sponge (Gelfoam) cubes, cut into 1-2 mm pieces, for embolization of the bleeding artery. PMID- 2530375 TI - [Evaluation of 3H-paroxetine as a radiopharmaceutical for lung function]. AB - The potential of 3H-paroxetine as a radiotracer for in vivo study of the function in mouse lung was examined. A high accumulation of radioactivity in the mouse lung was observed after intravenous administration of 3H-paroxetine. However, the distributions of radioactivity in the mouse lung were not significantly decreased by treatment with paroxetine or other monoamine uptake inhibitors (6 nitroquipazine, desipramine and GBR 12909). It was found that the radioactivity in the mouse lung at 1 hr after intravenous administration of 3H-paroxetine was due to unmetabolized 3H-paroxetine from TLC and HPLC analyses. Furthermore, 3H paroxetine exhibits both saturable and high affinity binding sites in mouse lung with a maximal number of binding sites (Bmax) of 303 fmoles/mg protein and a dissociation constant (Kd) of 92.2 pM. These results suggest that 3H-paroxetine would be a suitable radiopharmaceutical for in vivo study of the function of lung as a metabolic organ of serotonin. PMID- 2530376 TI - [Assessment of split renal function before and after angioplasty or bypass grafting in the patients with renovascular hypertension]. AB - Two different methods to assess the change of split renal function following angioplasty or bypass grafting were studied in a total of 12 patients with renovascular hypertension. The studies were performed before and within seven days after the therapeutic intervention. Split effective renal plasma flow (ERPF) and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) after injections of I-131 hippuran and Tc 99m DTPA were measured using kidney counting corrected for depth and dose, described by Schlegel and Gates. In six of 10 patients with unilateral renal artery stenosis and in two patients with bilateral renal artery stenoses (two of 4 affected kidneys), the split renal function was improved after the therapeutic intervention, in accordance with the drop in blood pressure and the reduction of plasma renin activity. The improvement in ERPF and GFR was more likely in the patients without severely reduced renal function. In such patients, the improvement in ERPF was more pronounced than that in GFR. And in two patients with functional improvement, the Captopril-induced reduction of split GFR in the affected kidney was disappeared after the intervention. Moreover, in the long term follow-up of three patients with functional improvement, one patient showed the deterioration of split renal function suggesting the relapse of renal artery stenosis. These results suggest that the combined studies of split ERPF and GFR determinations can be useful to evaluate the therapeutic effect as well as the presence or absence of functional improvement after the intervention. PMID- 2530377 TI - Total lipodystrophy with heart failure and renal failure: report of a case. AB - A 38-year-old female was admitted to our hospital because of dyspnea. The diagnosis of total lipodystrophy was made by following findings: (1) gaunt appearance; (2) insulin-resistant diabetes mellitus; (3) hyperlipidemia; (4) fatty liver. Chest X-ray demonstrated cardiomegaly, pulmonary edema and pleural effusion. Echocardiogram was characterized by left ventricular hypertrophy with asymmetrical septal hypertrophy and left ventricular dysfunction. Renal biopsy revealed focal glomerulosclerosis. We reported a patient with total lipodystrophy combined with heart failure and renal failure, which have been rarely associated with the disease. PMID- 2530378 TI - Effects of anticholinergic bronchodilators on mucociliary transport and airway secretion. AB - The effects of atropine, ipratropium and oxitropium on the mucociliary clearance were studied in pigeons and rabbits. The normal mucociliary transport (MCT) in pigeons was inhibited after the treatment by any of the three drugs at concentrations of 10(-4) to 10(-3) g/ml. These three drugs markedly inhibited eserine-induced MCT acceleration at a lower concentration than ACh-induced acceleration. The normal airway secretion was inhibited only by atropine in rabbits. The results indicate that neither oxitropium nor ipratropium depress the normal mucociliary clearance, but atropine may depress it under some conditions. Additionally, we suggest that these anticholinergic drugs might selectively affect the mucociliary transport modulated by endogenous ACh. PMID- 2530379 TI - Immunopharmacological studies on TBX, a new antiallergic drug (4). Effects on type II to IV allergic reactions and immunological functions in animal models. AB - The effects of 9-methyl-3-(1H-tetrazol-5-yl)-4H-pyrido[1,2-a]pyrimidin-4-one potassium salt (TBX) on type II to IV allergic reactions and immunological functions were investigated in animal models. Types II to IV allergic reactions in rodents were unaffected in vivo by TBX, even at higher doses than those capable of completely inhibiting the type I allergic reaction. However, both complement-mediated hemolysis via the classical pathway and hypotonic shock induced hemolysis were slightly inhibited in vitro only by a high concentration of the drug (10(-4) g/ml). In the mouse system, TBX had no ability to suppress anti-hapten IgE antibody formation as well as hemagglutinin formation and to inhibit the proliferation of spleen cells induced by non-specific T and B cell mitogens. The results obtained indicate that TBX is an antiallergic drug essentially devoid of inhibitory actions on types II to IV allergic reactions and immunological functions, thus indicating that it is a specific inhibitor of type I allergic reactions. PMID- 2530380 TI - [Study of the incidence of cardiac rhythm disorders among the residents of the highlands based on 24-hour ECG monitoring]. PMID- 2530381 TI - Effect of atriopeptin II on contrast medium-induced changes in renal blood flow. AB - Volume expansion has been shown to attenuate the vaso-constrictive effects of contrast medium. Since endogenous circulating levels of atrial natriuretic peptides are elevated during volume expansion and since atrial natriuretic peptides have been shown to blunt or block the vasoconstrictive effects of various pharmacologic agents, we examined the effect of atriopeptin II infusion on contrast medium-induced alterations in renal blood flow. Transient changes in renal blood flow were measured with an electromagnetic flow probe following bolus injections of the contrast medium, sodium meglumine diatrizoate (Renovist II, 2 ml/4 sec), into the renal arteries of dogs. Under control conditions (that is, saline vehicle), the bolus of contrast medium caused an initial 15 to 21% increase in renal blood flow at 14 to 21 seconds, followed by a subsequent 5 to 13% decrease in renal blood flow at 43 to 59 seconds after injection. Infusion of atriopeptin II (0.05 pg/kg/min) into the renal artery did not alter arterial blood pressure, glomerular filtration rate, or baseline renal blood flow, but did produce increases in urine flow rate and clearance of sodium. The infusion of atriopeptin II attenuated the contrast medium-induced reduction in RBF, but the infusion of a threshold dose of bradykinin (1 ng/kg/min) had no effect. These results suggest that low doses of atriopeptin II can selectively attenuate the vasoconstrictive effects of contrast medium on renal blood flow without influencing systemic hemodynamics. PMID- 2530382 TI - Non-H-2 genes alter the H-2 determined susceptibilities in immune complex nephritis. AB - These experiments examined the effects of genes outside of the H-2 region on disease susceptibility and pathogenesis. Four strains of mice with the susceptible H-2 type, H-2d, but different non-H-2 genes were studied. B10, D2, Balb/c, NZB, and DBA/2J mice were injected with 4 mg of apoferritin i.p. q.d. for 28 days. B10, D2 and Balb/c mice developed proliferative and crescentic glomerulonephritis. NZB mice developed proliferative and crescentic glomerulonephritis with wire loop lesions suggestive of lupus. DBA/2J mice developed only minimal mesangial proliferation without crescents or necrosis. Electron microscopy showed subepithelial and mesangial deposits in B10, D2, moderate subepithelial and mesangial deposits in Balb/c, and marked mesangial, subendothelial and subepithelial deposits in NZB. Immunofluorescence demonstrated the presence of IgG, IgM, C3 and apoferritin in these deposits. The DBA/2J mice had only minimal mesangial deposits by immunofluorescence and electron microscopy. These experiments demonstrate that non-H-2 genes alter the H-2d determined disease susceptibility seen in H-2 congenic mice. NZB genes can alter the disease so that lupus-like lesions develop and DBA/2J genes can substantially ameliorate the disease. PMID- 2530383 TI - Effect of exogenous ANP on initial renal function following 24-hour cold preservation. AB - The impact of synthetic atrial natriuretic peptide (sANP) on renal function following cold ischemic injury was studied in a canine autotransplant model. Following a prenephrectomy inulin clearance determination (CIn), the left kidney was excised, flushed with Eurocollins solution, and cold-stored for 24 hours. Immediately following reperfusion and a 10 minute equilibration period, baseline CIn was measured over a 20-minute time interval (Collection Period I). Experimental animals (N = 11) then received 1 mcg/kg sANP by intravenous bolus followed by a continuous infusion at 0.3 mcg/kg/min for 30 minutes. CIn was measured throughout the infusion (Collection Period II). Normal saline was substituted for sANP in control animals (N = 11). CIn was also measured 24 hours following reimplantation in seven control and seven sANP-treated animals. Autograft inulin clearance increased from 0.32 +/- 0.11 ml/min during Period I to 2.5 +/- 0.6 ml/min during sANP infusion (P less than 0.01). This increase in CIn associated with ANP infusion was accompanied by increases in urine flow rate (V) (0.15 +/- 0.05 ml/min to 0.98 +/- 0.21 ml/min, P less than 0.01) and renal blood flow (RBF) measured by electromagnetic flow probe (85 +/- 17 ml/min to 171 +/- 13 ml/min, P less than 0.05). No significant changes in CIn, V, or RBF occurred in control animals between periods I and II. Although systemic blood pressure declined during sANP infusion, it did not decrease to an extent that compromised peripheral perfusion. CIn determined 24 hours after autograft reimplantation in the ANP-treated animals approximated or exceeded values determined during ANP infusion (Period II).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530384 TI - Acute effects of physiological increments of alpha-atrial natriuretic peptide in man. AB - Seven dehydrated volunteers received three hour infusions of 0.8 pmol kg-1 min-1 of human alpha-atrial natriuretic peptide (h-alpha ANP) or vehicle alone (Ve) in a single-blind, randomized cross-over design. H-alpha ANP infusion increased plasma h-alpha ANP from 4.2 +/- 0.4 to 20.3 +/- 6.4 pm. H-alpha ANP suppressed plasma renin activity from 3.30 +/- 0.48 to 1.37 +/- 0.35 ng ml-1 hr-1 (P less than 0.001 vs. Ve). Plasma aldosterone was unaltered by h-alpha ANP. Fractional excretion of filtered sodium (FENa) changed from 0.92 +/- 0.09 to 1.13 +/- 0.16% with h-alpha ANP, and from 1.02 +/- 0.09 to 0.69 +/- 0.11% with Ve (P less than 0.01 h-alpha ANP vs. Ve). FEK was unchanged. FEpo4 increased from 7.2 +/- 1.2 to 9.2 +/- 1.2% and FELi from 22.1 +/- 1.4 to 24.9 +/- 3.0% with h-alpha ANP (both P less than 0.05 vs. Ve). H-alpha ANP decreased mean urinary osmolality by approximately 150 mOsmol kg-1 compared to Ve (P less than 0.01). GFR, RPF and filtration fraction were unchanged by h-alpha ANP, H-alpha ANP was associated with a significant tachycardia (P less than 0.01 vs. Ve) but with no significant change in arterial pressure. These results suggest that small increments of plasma h-alpha ANP, mimicking physiological changes, are natriuretic at least partly by reducing proximal tubular reabsorption of sodium, and also impair urinary concentration. PMID- 2530385 TI - Prevention of hemodialysis fistula thrombosis. Early detection of venous stenoses. AB - Venous dialysis pressures were measured consecutively in 168 chronic hemodialysis patients for 265 patient-years of monitored dialysis. Venous dialysis pressure greater than 150 mm Hg measured by the protocol were considered elevated. Seventy three patients had elevated venous dialysis pressures and 58 agreed to undergo elective venography (fistulogram). Fifty of 58 patients studied (86%) had significant venous stenoses. A combination of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) and surgical revision were used to electively treat these stenoses. Early detection and treatment of these stenoses decreased fistula thrombosis and fistula replacement threefold compared with our earlier experiences. Patients with elevated venous dialysis pressure who were venogramed and treated had an occurrence of fistula thrombosis similar to patients with normal dialysis pressure (0.15 and 0.13 episodes per patient year of dialysis respectively, P = NS). In contrast patients with elevated venous dialysis pressure who refused elective fistulogram and treatment averaged 1.4 episodes of thrombosis per patient year of dialysis (P less than 0.001) compared to both other groups). We conclude that elevated venous dialysis pressure is a reliable method of detecting fistula stenoses and that the elective treatment of these stenoses significantly decreases fistula thrombosis and fistula loss. PMID- 2530386 TI - [Bacteriological control in the prevention of suppurative complications in surgery]. PMID- 2530387 TI - [Surgical treatment of invalids with pseudarthrosis of the humerus]. AB - Complex rehabilitation of 132 invalids with unhealed fractures and false joints of the humerus is analysed. Modern methods of surgical treatment were applied: extrafocal distraction-compression osteosynthesis in 45.5% of cases, bone autoplasty in 41.7%, other operations in 2.8% of cases. The differentiated use of the methods of treatment with consideration for the changes developing in the soft tissues and bone structure made it possible to achieve union of the humeral bone fragments and restore the function of the limb and the working capacity of the patients in 96.6% of cases. PMID- 2530388 TI - [Reconstruction of the vascular bed in combination with x-ray guided endovascular interventions in disseminated forms of blood vessel lesions of the lower limbs]. PMID- 2530389 TI - [Formation of pseudoaneurysms at the site of prosthetic surgery of the aorta using a synthetic prosthesis in coarctation]. AB - Two patients who underwent 28 and 20 years ago operation for correction of coarctation of the aorta and its restoration by synthetic dacron prostheses were examined. They had characteristic complaints. Examination by functional and invasive methods revealed changes in the synthetic prostheses which caused the characteristic complaints and elements of the disease. The findings of autopsy were studied in a case of sudden death 25 years after repair of the aorta by a dacron prosthesis in coarctation. Morphological examination revealed essential changes in the synthetic dacron prosthesis which led to complications in the late postoperative period. PMID- 2530390 TI - [Intravascular angioplasty by excimer laser irradiation]. PMID- 2530391 TI - [Kidney function in heart failure]. AB - Congestive cardiac failure is a syndrome in which a decrease of cardiac output triggers a series of neuro-humoral compensatory mechanisms in part involving the kidney. In this response, dysfunction of atrial volume receptors as well as disturbances of the autonomic nervous system have recently been demonstrated and are held responsible for excessive stimulation of angiotensin II, followed by adverse regulatory effects. Renal hemodynamic compensation for heart failure primarily involves constriction of efferent arterioles thereby defending glomerular filtration. In this setting, the occurrence of prerenal insufficiency is indicative of a far advanced reduction in renal blood flow. Apparent diuretic resistance in the treatment of heart failure is usually caused by iatrogenic vascular compromise or by the use of a single diuretic rather than an appropriate combination. Hyponatremia, vasopressin stimulation and elevation of plasma N epinephrine concentration have been found to be the most reliable indicators of a poor prognosis of heart failure. Atrial natriuretic peptide is stimulated in proportion to the degree of atrial distension in heart failure, however its intrarenal effects are markedly blunted or may even be absent in this particular disease. PMID- 2530392 TI - Harnessing the therapeutic potential of atrial natriuretic peptide. AB - The biological actions of Atrial Natriuretic Peptide (ANP) make it potentially useful in the treatment of hypertension and heart failure. We review here the physiology of ANP, the effects of infusion in heart failure and hypertension and preliminary data suggesting that inhibition of endopeptidase 24.11, the enzyme degrading ANP, is an effective mechanism of raising circulating levels of endogenous ANP. Due to the rate of progress in this field we have restricted ourselves to recent work much of which is still available only in abstract form. For more complete accounts the reader is referred to recent reviews [9, 11, 14]. PMID- 2530394 TI - [Teaching physician's skills at the Chair of internal medicine]. PMID- 2530393 TI - [Lactase deficiency in aboriginal inhabitants of the Mordovian and Karelian ASSR]. AB - The aim of the work was to examine the validity of the cultural-historical hypothesis about the origin of lactase deficiency in adults on an example of the populations of the Finno-Ugric group. Examination included 692 healthy subjects aged 20-50 years. It was established that the incidence of lactase deficiency among relevant ethnic groups was identical. The data obtained support the validity of the cultural-historical hypothesis about lactase deficiency (selective lactase malabsorption). PMID- 2530395 TI - [Ultrasonic defectoscopy combined with laparoscopy in the diagnosis of the liver and biliary tract]. AB - A new technique and a device developed by the authors allowed obtaining additional data at panoramic laparoscopy thus promoting valid diagnosis in complicated cases of choledocholithiasis and cholelithiasis+ as well as in parenchymatous abscesses and cysts. The accuracy of the diagnosis rose by 10-15%. PMID- 2530396 TI - Consistency of laboratory animal food following incubation prior to autoclaving. AB - In this study the conventional autoclaving technique was modified by incubating the food overnight prior to autoclaving. This treatment resulted in a markedly improved consistency of the food pellets, comparable with that of untreated food. The modified autoclaved food did not adhere to the walls of feeders or clog the transport passage. Furthermore, the losses in thermolabile vitamins resulting from this treatment were the same as those resulting from conventional autoclaving. PMID- 2530397 TI - Prolapsus vaginae in the IIIVO/JU rabbit. AB - In a specified pathogen free (SPF) breeding colony of IIIVO/JU rabbits 8 cases of prolapsus vaginae occurred in 5 years. Clinically the animals were in shock. Haematocrits ranged from 9 to 15%. The prolapses started from the submucosal layer of the proximal part of the vestibulum vaginae. The prolapsed tissue consisted of over-expanded blood-sinuses. Between the sinuses signs of an inflammatory reaction were present. All 8 animals were in a period of increasing sexual activity when the prolapse developed. The 8 rabbits were closely related, indicating a possible hereditary defect. PMID- 2530399 TI - Simultaneous sampling of portal, hepatic and systemic blood during intragastric loading and tracer infusion in conscious pigs. AB - A surgical model for catheterization at multiple sites has been developed for use in long-term metabolic studies. For blood sampling, catheters were inserted into the portal and hepatic veins and the common carotid artery. The hepatic vein catheter was inserted from the margin of a liver lobe and led through the venous system, until the tip was close to the bifurcation with the inferior vena cava. A new technique was developed to ensure correct placement of the hepatic vein catheter using the specific extraction of indocyanin-green over the liver during surgery. Gastrostomy was performed using a Pezzer catheter. Catheters in the artery and hepatic and portal veins were patent for blood withdrawal for up to 4 weeks, and thus allowed repeated metabolic studies. Studies were performed in conscious animals familiar with the experimental situation. PMID- 2530398 TI - The effects of prolonged ketamine-xylazine intravenous infusion on arterial blood pH, blood gases, mean arterial blood pressure, heart and respiratory rates, rectal temperature and reflexes in the rabbit. AB - The prolonged and safe maintenance of general anesthesia in rabbits with commonly used injectable agents is difficult. Protracted, stable anesthesia with short recovery time has been described in humans using continuous intravenous infusion of ketamine with or without sedatives, muscle relaxants and paralytics. This study evaluated the anesthetic plane achieved and respiratory and cardiovascular effects produced with a ketamine-xylazine intravenous infusion in New Zealand White rabbits. Ten female rabbits were anesthetized with intramuscularly administered ketamine hydrochloride (35 mg/kg) and xylazine hydrochloride (5 mg/kg) after the preanesthetic, baseline measurements of arterial blood pO2, pCO2 and pH and heart and respiratory rates were recorded. The above parameters as well as mean arterial blood pressure, righting, palpebral, pedal, and jaw reflexes were monitored ten minutes after the intramuscularly administered dosage and throughout 4 hours of infusion. Results showed moderate hypotension (21.2% deviation from normal, p less than 0.008) and profound hypoxemia (45% deviation from baseline, p less than 0.001) 10 minutes after the intramuscularly administered induction dosage. Then, the 4 hour infusion of ketamine (1 mg/minute) and xylazine (0.1 mg/minute) was started. Hypotension progressed (49.1% deviation from normal, p less than 0.008), but hypoxemia and hypercarbemia gradually improved with no resultant change (p greater than 0.1) in arterial pH. There was no significant change (p greater than 0.1) in respiratory rate but varying qualities of respiration were observed. Both mean arterial pO2 and pCO2 values returned to baseline within 20 minutes after completion of infusion. Heart rate and rectal temperature remained stable during the trial. The righting reflex was abolished in all rabbits throughout the study.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530400 TI - The School Nurse Achievement Program in New Hampshire. PMID- 2530401 TI - Improved skin flap survival with nicotinic acid and nicotinamide in rats. AB - The effects of some components of the coenzyme nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) on tissue viability were investigated in acute island skin flaps which were constructed to exceed the blood supply provided by a unilateral pedicle of inferior epigastric vessels. Control flaps undergo significant necrosis. Treatment with nicotinamide or nicotinic acid, precursors of NAD, prior to flap elevation significantly improved the area of viability in the random portion of the flap from 44 +/- 9% (mean +/- SD) to 67 +/- 12 and 65 +/- 5%, respectively. Similarly, NAD improved viability to 68 +/- 10% (P less than 0.001). Treatment with other components, adenosine diphosphoribose or quinolinic acid, had no effect on flap survival. The results suggest that nicotinic acid and nicotinamide deserve therapeutic consideration with regard to the treatment of ischemia/reperfusion injury in skin. PMID- 2530402 TI - The effect of nicotinamide on microvascular density and thermal injury in rats. AB - The effects of nicotinamide on the microvasculature and wound healing were examined in rats subjected to thermal injury. Rats (250 g) were treated with 50 mg nicotinamide intraperitoneally twice daily for 21 days and then heart and brain biopsies were taken. Skin biopsies were removed from sites in and adjacent to the injury throughout the course of healing. Tissues were stained for alkaline phosphatase and capillary length density was determined by morphometric analysis. Significant increases were observed in the heart, brain, and dermal tissue of treated animals compared to controls. Capillary density in the injured skin was significantly greater when compared to the injured skin of saline-treated controls. The injuries of the rats that were treated systemically with nicotinamide healed significantly faster than saline-treated as determined by planimetric evaluation of the granulation bed and eschar. PMID- 2530403 TI - Testosterone-estradiol binding globulin (TeBG) in hirsute patients treated with cyproterone acetate (CPA) and percutaneous estradiol. AB - Testosterone-estradiol binding globulin (TeBG) was studied in 50 hirsute women, before and after 6-month treatment with cyproterone acetate (CPA). 50 mg CPA was administered orally from the 5th to the 25th day of the menstrual cycle and combined with 3 mg 17 beta-estradiol (E2) administered percutaneously from days 16-25 of the cycle. TeBG was evaluated by a filter assay measuring [3H]-DHT binding capacity. Before treatment, the mean plasma TeBG level was 40 +/- 12 nM in hirsute patients, which is significantly lower than TeBG value in normal women (60 +/- 9 nM, n = 20, P less than 0.01) and intermediate between normal women and normal men (30 +/- 8 nM, n = 20). After a 6-month treatment, TeBG strikingly decreased to 22 +/- 8 nM, which is significantly lower than pretreatment values (P less than 0.01) and even less than TeBG level in normal men. Parallel TeBG assay by immunoelectrodiffusion in 8 of these hirsute patients provided similar results. With this treatment, plasma testosterone and delta 4-androstenedione, measured between the 20th and 25th days of the cycle, decreased from 68 +/- 21 to 25 +/- 8 ng/dl, and 210 +/- 95 to 98 +/- 31 ng/dl respectively. Plasma estradiol decreased from 150 +/- 62 pg/ml to 75 +/- 25 pg/ml. In contrast, urinary 3 alpha androstanediol glucuronide remained high: 112 +/- 51 and 123 +/- 55 micrograms/24 h respectively before and with CPA treatment. Three mechanisms have been proposed to explain TeBG decrease under CPA + E2perc. treatment (1) relative competition of CPA with labelled DHT in the TeBG-binding capacity assay, (2) relative hypoestrogenism with this treatment, (3) a progestagen or even a partial agonistic androgen effect of CPA on TeBG synthesis in the liver. The third mechanism appears to be predominant. In any case. TeBG decrease combined with the partial enzymatic induction effect of CPA on the liver contributes to the increase in the metabolic clearance rate of T and the high urinary Adiol levels previously reported with CPA treatment. PMID- 2530404 TI - Determination of the optimal dose of crystalloid cardioplegia using volume per myocardial weight. PMID- 2530405 TI - [Have handicapped children the right to claim damages for parents' "wrongful life"?]. PMID- 2530407 TI - Disability control in a leprosy control programme. PMID- 2530406 TI - Perioperative complications and risk factors in the surgical treatment of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. AB - A retrospective review of 135 patients surgically treated for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) from 1982 to 1987 was performed to identify perioperative complications and potential risk factors. The incidence of complications was 13% (18/135). Airway problems comprised 77% (14/18) of these complications, resulting in one death. There were three postoperative hemorrhages and one postoperative arrhythmia. Comparison of the complication group versus the noncomplication group showed a statistically significant difference in the minimum oxygen saturation (66% vs. 79%) and apnea index (75 vs. 57) on the pre-operative sleep study and in the amount of narcotic administered intraoperatively. Patients with intubation complications tended to be heavier, whereas patients with extubation complications received significantly more narcotic analgesia intraoperatively. Risk for a perioperative complication was not related to age, type of obstructive symptoms, medical problems, or concurrent septoplasty/tonsillectomy. A protocol for perioperative airway management is presented. PMID- 2530408 TI - Registration of the number of macules in paucibacillary leprosy for evaluation of early diagnosis and individual prognosis. AB - The number of macules is usually registered at diagnosis in the first clinical examination of leprosy patients. The question studied here is whether this practice is of any interest as an indicator of the precocity of detection of the prognosis. The study is based on the 26,996 paucibacillary patients detected from 1957 to 1982 in Polambakkam Leprosy Centre (South India) for whom the number of macules and disability status are assessed and registered. Several observations suggest that the proportion of single-macule patients among the newly detected cases is a more sensitive indicator than the proportion of new patients with disabilities for the evaluation of the delay between onset of the disease and detection. Its use could be especially helpful for programmes running for several years, when it becomes difficult to observe significant variations in the proportion of patients with disabilities. Regarding the prognosis value of the number of macules, inactivation and relapse probabilities were calculated. Regularity of treatment is found to be a better predictor of early inactivation than the number of macules, while relapse probabilities are more affected by the number of macules. PMID- 2530409 TI - Report and evaluation of Brazilian experience in the rehabilitation of patients with leprosy. AB - As part of an investigation of the rehabilitation of physically disabled leprosy patients, a report and evaluation of Brazilian experience in this area given. After describing leprosy as a genuine and relevant public health problem in Brazil because of the numbers involved, the suffering caused and the difficulties inherent in its control the authors emphasize the important role of physical disability in this context. The description of a project set up in 1975 shows a model based on a Reference Centre as an epicentre for irradiating triggering action in five Brazilian cities. The results obtained thus far consist of 32 courses given at the Reference Centre and approximately 449 surgical interventions performed by one of the authors, 93.10% of which were considered satisfactory. The need to evaluate the clinical and therapeutic procedures involved from an epidemiological viewpoint is emphasized. PMID- 2530410 TI - Specific ganglioside binding to receptor sites on T lymphocytes that couple to ganglioside-induced decrease of CD4 expression. AB - The binding of different gangliosides to rat T-helper lymphocytes was characterized under conditions that decrease CD4 expression on different mammalian T-helper lymphocytes. Saturation binding by monosialylated [3H]-GM1 to rat T-lymphocytes was time- and temperature-dependent, had a dissociation constant (KD) of 2.2 +/- 1.4 microM and a binding capacity near 2 fmoles/cell. Competitive inhibition of [3H]-GM1 binding demonstrated a structural-activity related to the number of unconstrained sialic acid moieties on GM1-congeneric gangliosides. A comparison between the results of these binding studies and ganglioside-induced decrease of CD4 expression demonstrated that every aspect of [3H]-GM1 binding concurs with ganglioside modulation of CD4 expression. It is concluded that the specific decrease of CD4 expression induced by pretreatment with gangliosides involves the initial process of ganglioside binding to specific sites on CD4+ T-helper lymphocytes. PMID- 2530411 TI - Immunoreactive atrial natriuretic peptide in the guinea pig spleen. AB - The presence of immunoreactive ANP precursor-like material in the guinea pig spleen is suggested. This is based on the following experimental evidence: An acidic extract of guinea pig spleen analysed by Sephadex G-50 gelfiltration contained 4.6 pmol/g wet tissue immunoreactive atrial natriuretic peptide (IR ANP), coeluting with the 15 kDa synthetic ANP (2-126). Gelfiltrated IR-ANP material was further submitted to reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography and monitored by radioimmunoassay employing two antisera. One antiserum recognizes the C-terminal of ANP (1-126), the second is directed against the N-terminal sequence. Both antisera revealed material eluting with synthetic ANP (2-126). Furthermore, immunohistochemical analysis suggests this ANP-like material to be localized mainly at the periphery of the white pulp of the spleen. These findings link ANP with the immune system. PMID- 2530412 TI - [Relation of atrial natriuretic peptide, the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and kinin system in hypertensive and normotensive youngsters with or without a family history of essential arterial hypertension]. AB - To evaluate the correlations occurring among plasma atrial natriuretic factor (ANF), renin activity (PRA), aldosterone (ALD) and urinary kallikrein (KK) in young hypertensives and in young normotensives with or without a family history of hypertension, 26 essential hypertensives (mean age: 22.5 +/- 2), 21 normotensives (mean age: 22.3 +/- 1.9) and 13 normotensives with hypertensive heredity (mean age 22 +/- 1.8) under normal Na+ intake (120 mEq/daily) were studied. Blood samples for plasma ANF, PRA and ALD evaluations were taken after a night bed sleep (A) and again after 1 hour of deambulation (B). KK was evaluated on 24 hours urine specimens by the chromogenic substrate (S-2266) method. The results showed that ANF plasma levels in hypertensives (A = 44.5 +/- 19.4 pg/ml, B = 24.1 +/- 11 pg/ml) were higher than in normotensives (A = 38.3 +/- 19.4 pg/ml, B = 19.9 +/- 10.6 pg/ml), with a percentage difference of 13.8% in A situation and 17.4% in B situation. Moreover ANF was higher in normotensives with hypertensive heredity than in normotensives without heredity (A = +7.4%; B = +10%). In B situation ANF was inversely correlated with ALD in all groups (p less than 0.001 in hypertensives; p less than 0.05 in both groups of normotensives), and with PRA in hypertensive group (p less than 0.001). KK was significantly lower in hypertensives than in normals (p less than 0.01) showing only in hypertensive patients an inverse correlation with ANF (r = -0.60; p less than 0.001). In conclusion, our data indicate that raised levels of plasma ANF may be present in young hypertensives with low levels of PRA, ALD and KK. PMID- 2530413 TI - [Effects of active orthostatism on blood levels of atrial natriuretic peptide in the healthy subject]. AB - The effects of active changes in posture, from recumbency to upright position (60 minutes), on the circulating levels of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) in healthy human subjects were studied by using a radioimmunoassay method. In supine position, plasma ANP levels ranged from 12 pg/ml to 51.5 pg/ml, with an average level of 35.3 +/- 11.5 pg/ml. After 1 hour of orthostatic position, plasma ANP levels varied from 10 pg/ml to 35 pg/ml, with an average level of 21 +/- 11.5 pg/ml. These results suggest that ANP is involved in the hemodynamic modifications following postural stimuli. Thus, postural changes can be taken in to account for evaluating plasma ANP behaviour properly. PMID- 2530415 TI - Isotope exchange. PMID- 2530414 TI - [The dipyridamole-echo-ECG test in hypertensives with microvascular angina]. AB - Microvascular angina - chest pain syndrome in the presence of angiographically normal epicardial coronary arteries and reduced flow reserve - has been also described in patients with essential hypertension and it has been linked to the development of left ventricular hypertrophy. Dipyridamole-Echocardiography Test (DET: 2D-echo and 12 lead ECG monitoring with dipyridamole infusion, up to 0.84 mg/kg over 10') was performed in 28 essential hypertensives meeting the following inclusion criteria; 1) history of chest pain; 2) angiographically normal coronary arteries; 3) normal resting regional and global left ventricular function. A group of 12 (age and sex matched) normotensives with the same inclusion criteria, as well as with negative exercise stress test, was also evaluated. During DET, none, either in essential hypertensives or in control group, developed a regional dyssynergy of contraction; 15 in essential hypertensives, and 2 in control group had a diagnostic (greater than 0.1 mVolt from baseline) ST segment depression on ECG tracing (54 vs 17% p less than 0.01); 16 in essential hypertensives and 2 in control group had chest pain (57 vs 17%, p less than 0.01). None of the control group and 9 of the essential hypertensives had echocardiographically assessed left ventricular hypertrophy. In the essential hypertensives group, ventricular hypertrophy was present in 7/20 patients with and in 2/8 patients without dipyridamole induced chest pain and/or ST segment depression (35 vs 25%, p = ns). In conclusion, essential hypertensives patients with chest pain and angiographically normal coronary arteries frequently show "echocardiographically silent" angina and/or ST segment depression during DET. The presence of ventricular hypertrophy does not appear to be a prerequisite for the induction of angina in these patients. PMID- 2530416 TI - Thalidomide--a therapy for the immunological consequences of HIV infection? AB - The beneficial effects of the teratogenic drug thalidomide on a variety of disorders involving the immune system have been established recently. Comparison of symptoms and immunologic abnormalities of such diseases with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, as well as experimentally obtained results suggest that thalidomide may be a useful agent suppressing autoaggressive reactions initiated by the human immunodeficiency virus. PMID- 2530417 TI - [Cases of mass karakurt bites in Uzbekistan]. AB - In 1981-1984 in Uzbekistan (the Navoi and Khorezm Provinces, the Karakalpak ASSR) 463 cases of bites by Latrodectus tredecimguttatus have been registered (372 cases, in 1983). The highest number of bites was observed at the end of May and the first half of July. Mild and subacute intoxications prevailed. No fatal outcomes were registered. The L. tredecimguttatus bites occurred mostly during the night sleep in the tents. A high number of spiders in the pastures (3-4 specimens per sq. meter) was due to abundant atmospheric precipitation and heat in 1980-1982. The treatment of spiders' accumulation sites with 2.0% chlorophos solution or 12.0% HCCH dust killed the spiders, which resulted in considerable decrease in the number of registered intoxication cases. PMID- 2530418 TI - [The size of small mammals and the number of fleas parasitizing them]. AB - Correlation analysis of many-year's data on the distribution and number of fleas parasitizing on 281,627 mammals of 21 species in the pest natural foci of the Aral Sea coastal area has demonstrated that the number of mammalian ectoparasites was determined by ecological features as well as by the size of animals: higher numbers of bloodsucking insects could parasitize on animals of a larger size. Values of correlation coefficients of Spearman ranks between body size and number of fleas are high and significant. This fact has remained unnoticed, probably, due to extreme variability in the fleas number indicators obtained in epizootiological studies. This makes their suitability to important studies requiring high precision of the initial data rather doubtful. PMID- 2530419 TI - [Characteristics of taeniarhynchiasis foci in various physical geographic areas of the Azerbaijan SSR]. AB - Three types of taeniarhynchiasis foci with weak, medium and high tension of epidemic processes are distinguished basing on the rate of infestation of human population with Taeniorhynchus and cysticercosis of cattle. Rational and economic invasion control measures have been elaborated with regard to various types of the disease foci situated in various physical geographic areas of the Azerbaijan SSR. PMID- 2530420 TI - [A natural opisthorchiasis foci in Kazakhstan]. AB - The structure of many opisthorchiasis foci in Kazakhstan has not been finally determined. Occurrence of opisthorchis in wild animals is not indisputable evidence of the natural character of the focus. The role of humans in the circulation of causative agents is also rather important. Most of the foci in the republic are probably of a mixed or purely anthropogenic character, the purely natural ones are more rare. PMID- 2530421 TI - [Comprehensive assessment of an opisthorchiasis focus in the Komi-Permiak Autonomous Okrug]. AB - Unfavourable sanitary and hygienic conditions in 2 settlements have been established; the authors revealed specific features of the invasion spreading in this focus where high invasion rates of intermediate and final hosts were associated with low invasion rates. Different factors have been established, which contribute to the invasion spreading among the population. A three-score assessment has been proposed of the manifestations of the clinical symptomatology in digestive disease in opisthorchiasis which is suitable for in the field. A retrospective analysis has been made of the reasons for ineffective chemotherapy with chloxyl in this focus. The age-related affliction with opisthorchiasis in the focus is the most adequately described by a "reversible catalytic" model with a force of infection of 0.055. PMID- 2530423 TI - [Beetles as biological agents in fly control]. AB - 309 beetles of 11 species were collected in Apsheron and other regions of Azerbaijan on sites polluted by animal and human feces to study the feasibility of using them as biological agents for flies' control. Two beetle species--S. planus and B. lethifers pterotapha belonging to the Carabidae and Tenebrionidae families--turned out to be predators which could destroy the larva of L. sericata flies under experimental conditions. PMID- 2530422 TI - [Comprehensive examination of the population to detect echinococcosis and recurrences of the disease]. AB - The paper presents results of examination of 1017 persons with a view to detecting primary echinococcosis and recurrences of the disease in 357 previously operated patients by using the combined diagnostic programme (fluorography, ultrasonic examination and immunodiagnosis) elaborated by the author. Prophylactic examination revealed 28 primary echinococcosis patients and 69 patients with recurrent echinococcosis with later recovery from the disease. The data suggest that a prophylactic screening should be performed by using the combined diagnostic program that enables the final diagnosis to be made. All the operated echinococcosis patients should be registered and prophylactically examined at least once a year for disease recurrences by means of the complex diagnostic program. PMID- 2530424 TI - Rate-control drug delivery systems: controlled release vs. sustained release. AB - Recently, several technical advancements have been made in the development of new generation of drug delivery systems. These systems are capable of controlling the rate of drug delivery, sustaining the duration of therapeutic efficacy, and/or targeting the delivery of drug to a tissue. Depending upon the technical sophistication, these rate-control drug delivery systems can be classified into three major categories: (i) pre-programmed drug delivery, (ii) activation controlled drug delivery, and (iii) feedback-regulated drug delivery. Various types of drug delivery devices which have been recently marketed or under active development are grouped, on technology basis, under each category. The fundamentals behind the development of each type of the rate-control drug delivery systems with the successful examples of biomedical application are analyzed, aiming to gain a better understanding of the science and technology involved as well as to pave a solid foundation for future development of innovative new drug delivery systems. PMID- 2530425 TI - Transdermal therapeutic systems and rate controlled drug delivery. AB - One of the key design features of transdermal therapeutic systems, namely the system rate-control, and its impact on systemic therapy, are reviewed. Specifically, TTS(scopolamine) and TTS(estradiol) are evaluated as examples of the rate-controlled transdermal products. The use of these TTS products has resulted in controlled plasma concentration of drug and reduced side effects by the use of TTS(scopolamine) and more physiologic estradiol to estrone ratio with the transdermal dosage form of estradiol. PMID- 2530426 TI - Reference standards for implantable materials: problems and needs. AB - Medical implant materials that come in contact with tissues, body fluids (including blood) constitute an area in medical devices where reliability and clinical performance limitations are vital. Polymeric implant materials differ in important aspects from metals and alloys, and ceramics (including glasses and carbons) with respect to their atomic and molecular structures and morphology. It is suggested that four categories of 'standards' be developed: (1) certified primary reference materials to be used for calibration purposes, (2) reference materials to be used for the comparative evaluation of physico-chemical and biological properties, (3) 'fabrication-grade' reference materials for intercomparative evaluation of processing conditions, and (4) reference implants aimed at the intercomparative evaluation of possible synergistic effects of additives, processing aids, and fabrication processes on in vivo service life, including biological and mechanical performance. PMID- 2530428 TI - Complement activation mediates cellular adhesion to synthetic biomaterials. AB - The possibility has arisen that it is the complement proteins of blood plasma that mediates cellular adhesion following the exposure of a synthetic material to blood. There are two means of investigating this possibility. One is by pharmacologically rendering the complement system of an animal incapable of being activated before its blood is exposed to a material and determining the effect on the degree of cellular adhesion that results. The second is to leave the hemostasis system fully in tact but to modify the material so that the material activates less complement when it is exposed to blood and to determine if this also reduces the degree of cellular adhesion. We review the results of a series of studies that involve both of these approaches. The evidence from both indicate that the complement system mediates cellular adhesion to synthetic materials. PMID- 2530427 TI - Studies on contact activation: effects of surface and inhibitors. AB - Contact activation is initiated when the plasma proteins, Hageman factor (factor XII), prekallikrein and high molecular weight kininogen interact with negatively charged materials. The activation of the intrinsic pathway of blood coagulation and the production of bradykinin are among the sequelae of contact activation. The kinetics of the activation of the contact system are modified by plasma inhibitors, C1 inhibitor being quantitatively the most important. We propose that the activation of the system requires that the stimulus provided by the surface must be greater than a threshold value to overcome the effects of the inhibitors. We show in this paper that the amount of surface required for activation is much reduced in the absence of C1 inhibitor (Hereditary Angioedema) or in the cold where the inhibitor loses much of its effectiveness. Antithrombin III inhibition of activated Hageman factor is augmented by heparin which is also an activator of Hageman factor. The rate constants for inhibition remain much lower than for C1 inhibitor, however. PMID- 2530429 TI - The design of cellulosic based membranes that do not activate complement. AB - Complement is a principal mediator of the acute inflammatory response that works by nonspecific recognition mechanisms to eliminate foreign substances from the body. Because of the non-selective nature of complement, extracorporeal therapies employing hydrophilic cellulosic based materials can result in significant complement activation and systemic exposure to large amounts of C5a which in turn may lead to a variety of pathological sequelae. Several approaches have been identified to produce materials with a limited potential to activate complement. Activation proceeds on a material following the covalent attachment of C3b to surface nucleophiles which leads to the formation of C3 and C5 convertase enzymes. Interference with these enzymes may be achieved at several levels. Surfaces that contain fewer nucleophilic sites bind less C3b and thus generate lower levels of convertase activity. This is exemplified by the Cellulose Triacetate membrane that is produced by exhaustive acetylation of surface hydroxyl groups. This membrane binds only a third of the amount of C3b that a cuprophan membrane will bind. An alternative means of affecting convertase activity can occur by facilitating the regulatory activity of Factors H and I. Evidence is presented here that suggests that Hemophan appears to limit activation by augmenting regulation of bound-C3b. Finally we have begun studies on a new type of modification using dicarboxylic acid anhydrides that produce materials with a very limited potential to activate complement. PMID- 2530430 TI - Human cell models for genetic engineering. AB - Technological advances made in molecular biology and culture of human and other mammalian cells in vitro have increased the ability to introduce functional genes into a variety of cell types. Subgenomic components of both DNA and RNA viruses are used as the eukaryotic components of many recombinant DNA vector constructs which are used for transfection either by a variety of methods to facilitate DNA uptake or as virions. This paper reviews some of the factors involved in expression, persistence, and recombination of the introduced genes. Also considered are the use of DNA transfection models to study human cancer or other diseases, the current status of gene therapy, and the use of human cells to produce biologicals. The need to better develop well-characterized human cell culture models from multiple organ sites and various cell types is a recurrent theme for all of these applications, including the role that such cells will play in understanding the functions for genes which will be identified in the human genome cloning project. With continued study and a better understanding of pathophysiology at the cellular and molecular levels should come the logical next step of adding genetically engineered human cells to the repertoire of acceptable biomedical technologies. PMID- 2530431 TI - [Modification of the atherogenic risk factor Lp(a) by supplementary fish oil administration in patients with moderate physical training]. AB - Influence of supplementary fish oil diet in patients with moderate physical training on the atherogenic risk factor Lp(a) 32 male patients (mean age 54.0 +/- 5.8 years) were treated with supplementary fish oil intake (8 ml/d) and daily moderate swim training (20 to 30 min) for four weeks. In 22 of the 32 patients lipoprotein Lp(a) was reduced significantly by 25.0%, apolipoprotein (apo) B by 11.4%, apo A I by 7.8%, triglycerides by 38.3%, and cholesterol by 12.3%. Possibly caused by too low dosed fish oil no drop of Lp(a) was seen in ten patients. Caloric reduced diet (5000 kJ/d) did not effect additional decrease of the Lp(a) level. A control group of 22 male patients (52.9 +/- 5.7 control group of 22 male patients (52.9 +/- 5.7 years) trained in the same way received a supplementary peanut oil diet (8 ml/d). There was no influence on Lp(a) by n-6 PUFA but cholesterol and triglycerides dropped significantly. PMID- 2530432 TI - [Periodontitis associated with systemic diseases with qualitative deficiency of phagocyte function. II. Down's syndrome]. AB - Numerous systemic syndromes with different aetiopathogenetic and clinical features are constantly accompanied by functional changes in polymorphonucleated neutrophils and, particularly, in their chemotactic properties. The function they perform, namely impeding invasion of the organism by external aggressive factors, cannot therefore be implemented. These patients are thus abnormally susceptible to infections and present a high frequency of serious periodontal disease. PMID- 2530433 TI - [Periodontitis associated with systemic diseases with qualitative deficiency of phagocyte function. III. Papillon-Lefevre syndrome]. AB - Numerous systemic syndromes with different aetiopathogenetic and clinical features are constantly accompanied by function changes in neutrophil polymorphoanucleates and, particularly, in their chemotactic properties. The function they perform, namely impeding the invasion of the organism on the part of aggressive external factors, cannot therefore be implemented. These patients are thus abnormally susceptible to infections and present severe periodontal disease with high frequency. PMID- 2530434 TI - Comorbidity of chronic conditions and disability among older persons--United States, 1984. PMID- 2530435 TI - Ca2+, pH and the regulation of cardiac myofilament force and ATPase activity. AB - When the pH surrounding myofilaments of striated muscle is reduced there is an inhibition of both the actin-myosin reaction as well as the Ca2+-sensitivity of the myofilaments. Although the mechanism for the effect of acidic pH on Ca2+ sensitivity has been controversial, we have evidence for the hypothesis that acidic pH reduces the affinity of troponin C (TNC) for Ca2+. This effect of acidic pH depends not only on a direct effect of protons on Ca2+-binding to TNC, but also upon neighboring thin filament proteins, especially TNI, the inhibitory component of the TN complex. Using fluorescent probes that report Ca2+-binding to the regulatory sites of skeletal and cardiac TNC, we have shown, for example, that acidic pH directly decreases the Ca2+-affinity of TNC, but only by a relatively small amount. However, with TNC in whole TN or in the TNI-TNC complex, there is about a 2-fold enhancement of the effects of acidic pH on Ca2+-binding to TNC. Acidic pH decreases the affinity of skeletal TNI for skeletal TNC, and also influences the micro-environment of a probe positioned at Cys-133 of TNI, a region of interaction with TNC. Other evidence that the effects of acidic pH on Ca2+-TNC activation of myofilaments are influenced by TNI comes from studies with developing hearts. In contrast, to the case with the adult preparations, Ca2+ activation of detergent extracted fibers prepared from dog or rat hearts in the peri-natal period are weakly affected by a drop in pH from 7.0 to 6.5. This difference in the effect of acidic pH appears to be due to a difference in the isoform population of TNI, and not to differences in isotype population or amount of TNC. PMID- 2530436 TI - [Fulminant acne in Klinefelter syndrome treated with testosterone. A side effect of anti-tallness therapy]. AB - Acne lesions usually do not occur in patients with Klinefelter's syndrome (47 XXXY). But a 19 year old patient with Klinefelter's syndrome, under therapy with testosteronenantat (500 mg every two weeks over a period of 18 months) for treatment of excessively tall stature developed acne fulminans. Following discontinuation of testosterone treatment and isotretinoin therapy over 16 weeks skin lesions healed almost completely although with severe scars. In conclusion, high doses testosterone-treatment in excessively tall boys needs the additional care of dermatologist when mostly after a 7 months period acne begins to develop under this treatment. PMID- 2530437 TI - [Ectopia cordis. Report of a prenatally diagnosed cases and a short review of the literature]. AB - Ectopia cordis is defined as a congenital malposition of the heart partially or completely outside the thorax. Severe structural malformations of the heart are very frequently associated and are responsible for the extremely poor prognosis. Only 16 out of 219 cases reported in the literature up to now have survived. We report on a case of Ectopia cordis thoraco-abdominalis associated with an univentricular heart and a hypoplastic pulmonary vascular bed detected prenatally in the 32nd week of gestation. The male newborn died 23 h after a spontaneous and uneventful delivery at term. Considering the poor prognosis no surgical attempts had been undertaken to correct the malformation. PMID- 2530438 TI - [Revised evaluation of cardiomegaly in hypoglycemia in newborn infants]. AB - Numerous data of the literature suggest that the cardiomegaly of hypoglycaemic newborns is due to low blood glucose levels. The size of the heart is usually determined by measuring the cardio-thoracic ratio (CTR). On the basis of the present retrospective study analyzing the clinical course and radiological findings of 66 newborns the authors suggest that: 1. CTR cannot reliably be used for determining the size of the heart in hypoglycaemic small for gestational age (SGA) newborns. 2. Routine look at the X-ray picture is also insufficient for the determination of the size of the heart in hypoglycaemic SGA newborns. 3. The method suggested by the authors is to measure the transverse diameter of the heart and to compare it to the normal, birthweight-related standard. In 3/4 of the hypoglycaemic SGA newborns studied thoracic transverse diameter (TTD) values were found to be smaller than the 50th percentile of the standard. Transverse diameter values of the heart, however, did not differ significantly from the normal mean values. In cases of true cardiomegaly, i.e. cardiac diameter above the 90th percentile, data indicative of asphyxia were more frequently seen. PMID- 2530439 TI - [The federal health office on viral hepatitis: incidence reporting responsibility and preventive vaccination]. PMID- 2530440 TI - Case 1, 1989: juvenile-onset parkinsonism, dystonia, and pyramidal tract signs. PMID- 2530441 TI - The vascular terminal network device in the anterior stomach wall. AB - The microcirculatory bed of the anterior stomach wall has been studied in man, dog, rabbit, guinea pig and rat, starting from the fact that in the modern gastro duodenal surgery the various sectors of this stomach part have a special importance. The stomach microvascular network has been rendered manifest by microcorrosion preparations and by intravascular injections with coloured tracers (China Ink-gelatin, silver nitrate, methylene blue). Examinations under biocular magnifying glass and microscope of the histological slides, as well as of the block-transparentized ones in tetraline, have facilitated the microvascular morphometry as well as the calculation of some hemodynamic indices of blood flow evaluation in a limited territory of the anterior stomach wall. The obtained data can be of use when evaluating the microcirculation of the stomach parietal territories in selective vagotomies, anastomoses, plasties, resections and other operations of the stomach. PMID- 2530442 TI - Cytodifferentiation and dynamics of intercellular relations during early ontogenesis. AB - The paper presents ultrastructural aspects related to zygotes and embryo cytodifferentiation of Sus scrofa d., used in the biotechnology of embryo transfer, from the first division of segmentation to the stage of preimplantational blastocyst. Together with the intense cellular proliferations, the morphostructural and functional differentiation of cells takes place. First, the blastomeres are similar from an ultrastructural point of view and do not present intercellular junctions to the advanced stage of morula. Gradually, the polarity of the cellular surface is more evident (microvilli occupy only certain domains of the cellular surface and junctions of intercellular solidarity of desmosomal type occur). Ultrastructural modifications of nuclei, mitochondria and cytoskeleton are noticed. Embryoblastic cells as well as those to form the trophoblast are morphostructurally and positionally differentiated. In the stage of preimplantational blastocyst, the nuclei of some embryoblastic cells have a characteristic form of a callotte or biconcave lens with passages of nuclear material to the cytoplasm. PMID- 2530443 TI - The pathological process. III(IV). Cellular population systems as substrates of pathological processes: structure, reactivity, dynamics and basic lesions. AB - This fourth paper dealt with the analysis of cellular population systems as the main substrates of pathological processes. The analysis pointed out the reactivity of these systems, their histogenesis and dynamics, their cellular composition and reactional capacity of composing cells, the relations between different groups of cells forming the system (intrasystemic relationships), those between proliferation and differentiation-maturation, the multifactorial determinism of proliferation, differentiation, maturation and mobilization of the cells composing the system. The analysis of basic lesions of cellular population systems (cellular hypertrophy, cell hyperplasia, metaplasia and neoplastic transformation) completed this dynamic investigation. PMID- 2530444 TI - Morphometry in evaluating large cell malignant lymphomas in lymph node biopsies. AB - The values of some morphometric cell parameters were analysed in 12 cases of large cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (centroblastic and immunoblastic lymphoma and histiocytic sarcomas) in order to test the utility of the morphometric method as an additional element to the histologic diagnosis and to its further accuracy. The nuclear and nucleolar area, the number of nucleoli per nuclear cross section and the nucleus to nucleolus ratio were investigated. The morphometric data were obtained on histograms using the Giemsa stained sections. Mean values and standard deviations were calculated and statistically analyzed. Statistical evaluation of data showed significant differences in the three groups. Our results proved the usefulness of the morphometric method as a helpful technique of differentiating the large cell malignant lymphomas. PMID- 2530446 TI - Micronucleus test applied in patients with acute leukemia, before and at different intervals during the cytostatic treatment. AB - The micronucleus test was applied in a group of 36 patients with malignant disease of the blood (acute lymphoblastic leukemia, ALL, and acute non lymphocytic leukemia, ANLL) in order to evaluate to what extent it may be relevant for the efficiency of the cytostatic treatment. To this end, the test was applied at the onset of the disease (when diagnosed) and at different intervals after initiating the cytostatic therapy. Determination of the incidence of micronucleated cells and immature cells (blasts) at the two moments of the study established a correlation between the frequency of micronucleated cells and blast cells, the response to the anticancerous treatment and survival duration, the data obtained reflecting the prognostic value of the test in some malignant hemopathies. PMID- 2530445 TI - Chronic lymphocytic leukemia and Hodgkin's disease in the same patient: a report of two cases. AB - Two cases with coexistent chronic lymphocytic leukemia and Hodgkin's disease are reported. The first appeared disease was the chronic lymphocytic leukemia. The eventual influence of this disease on the development of the Hodgkin's disease is discussed. PMID- 2530447 TI - Ultrastructural changes in the mouse fetal choroid plexuses following chronic maternal alcoholization. AB - Female mice (RAP strain) were alcoholized for 30-50 days before mating and during pregnancy until killing, with a 20% solution of ethanol administered instead of drinking water. From foetuses of 16, 18 and 20 days and from newborn puppies (day 1) choroid plexuses were excised and electronmicroscopically examined. Chronic maternal alcoholization induced the lowering of glycogen content in the choroid cells of 16 day old foetuses, the swelling and vacuolization of mitochondria with the disappearance of cristae and enlargement of the Golgi complex--in the choroid cells at all the developmental stages controlled, the enlargement of intercellular spaces within the choroid epithelium and between the capillaries and the epithelial layer. The changes detected are presumedly due to disturbances of intracerebral fluid homeostasis and may be responsible for at least some of the CNS pathology observed in alcohol embryo- and fetopathy. PMID- 2530448 TI - Classical and molecular genetic analyses of his-3 mutants of Neurospora crassa. II. Southern blot analyses and molecular mechanisms of mutagenicity. AB - Previous studies (Overton et al., Mutation Res., 1989) on specific revertibility of 81 his-3 mutants have shown a correlation between complementation pattern and presumed genetic alteration similar to that shown by ad-3B mutants. In the present study, restriction enzyme analyses were used to further characterize the genetic alterations in individual his-3 mutants. The restriction fragment banding patterns of the majority of mutants were identical with that shown by wild-type 74-OR23-1A and were consistent with expectations based on previous data suggesting that they resulted from single base-pair alterations (Overton et al., Mutation Res., 1989). His-3 mutants with altered banding patterns were only found among those with polarized complementation patterns or noncomplementing mutants. One of the mutants with a polarized complementation pattern, 1-189-83, and another noncomplementing mutant, 1-189-85, are associated with genetic alterations proximal to the his-3 locus. In one other mutant, 1-226-565 (with a polarized complementation pattern), an insertion of approx. 2 kb has occurred in the proximal region of the his-3 locus. Two other mutants, 1-155-270 and 1-155 276 (both noncomplementing), contained a large insertion of approx. 12.8 kb in the proximal region of the his-3 locus. PMID- 2530449 TI - Enhanced O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase activity in transgenic mice containing an integrated E. coli ada repair gene. AB - The E. coli ada gene encodes O6-methylguanine DNA methyltransferase (O6MTase) which repairs the methylation of guanine at the O6 position in DNA. After recombination with a Chinese hamster metallothionein I gene promoter, the ada gene was microinjected into C3H/HeN mouse zygotes. Eventually, transgenic mice containing the ada fusion DNA were generated. The integrated ada DNA complex was transmitted to the progeny in a mode conforming to tandem integration at a single chromosome site, and homozygotes were also obtained from an inter-transgenic mouse cross. RNA transcripts of the chimeric ada gene were identified in the livers of these transgenic mice using dot and Northern blot analyses. O6MTase activity was increased in the liver of transgenic mice of line No. 708, and was more than 3 times the activity found in non-transgenic mice, especially in the transgenic homozygotes. The ada gene product was detected in the liver of a transgenic homozygote by immunoblot analysis. These transgenic mice have great potential for analysis of the role played by O6MTase in chemical carcinogenesis. PMID- 2530450 TI - Indiscriminate use of laser-assisted angioplasty. PMID- 2530451 TI - Database pollution. PMID- 2530452 TI - Distribution of two distinct Ca2+-ATPase-like proteins and their relationships to the agonist-sensitive calcium store in adrenal chromaffin cells. AB - Many cellular functions are regulated by activation of cell-surface receptors that mobilize calcium from internal stores sensitive to inositol 1,4,5 trisphosphate (Ins(1,4,5)P3). The nature of these internal calcium stores and their localization in cells is not clear and has been a subject of debate. It was originally suggested that the Ins(1,4,5)P3-sensitive store is the endoplasmic reticulum, but a new organelle, the calciosome, identified by its possession of the calcium-binding protein, calsequestrin, and a Ca2+-ATPase-like protein of relative molecular mass 100,000 (100K), has been described as a potential Ins(1,4,5)P3-sensitive calcium store. Direct evidence on whether the calciosome is the Ins(1,4,5)P3-sensitive store is lacking. Using monoclonal antibodies raised against the Ca2+-ATPase of skeletal muscle sarcoplasmic reticulum, we show that bovine adrenal chromaffin cells contain two Ca2+-ATPase-like proteins with distinct subcellular distributions. A 100K Ca2+-ATPase-like protein is diffusely distributed, whereas a 140K Ca2+-ATPase-like protein is restricted to a region in close proximity to the nucleus. In addition, Ins(1,4,5)P3-generating agonists result in a highly localized rise in cytosolic calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) initiated in a region close to the nucleus, whereas caffeine results in a rise in [Ca2+]i throughout the cytoplasm. Our results indicate that chromaffin cells possess two calcium stores with distinct Ca2+-ATPases and that the organelle with the 100K Ca2+-ATPase is not the Ins(1,4,5)P3-sensitive store. PMID- 2530453 TI - A glycophospholipid anchor is required for Qa-2-mediated T cell activation. AB - A number of lymphocyte surface proteins are anchored in the cell membrane by glycophosphatidyl inositol (known as GPI) linkages instead of hydrophobic protein domains. Treatment of mouse T lymphocytes with antibodies specific for two such proteins, Thy-1 and Ly-6, are known to induce proliferation. We have found that antibodies specific for Qa-2, a GPI-anchored class I histocompatibility antigen, can also activate mouse T cells. To determine whether the GPI-anchor is important for this pathway of cell activation, we produced transgenic mice expressing either normal GPI-anchored Qa-2, or Qa-2 molecules with a membrane-spanning protein domain derived from H-2. Our studies show that only lymphocytes from transgenic mice carrying GPI-anchored forms of Qa-2 can be activated in vitro by Qa-2-specific antibodies. We also show that transgenic mouse T cells expressing a GPI-anchored form of H-2Db can be activated by anti-H-2Db antibodies. These results strongly indicate that the GPI-anchor is critical for this pathway of T cell activation. PMID- 2530454 TI - Nature and site of phospholamban regulation of the Ca2+ pump of sarcoplasmic reticulum. AB - The rapid removal of Ca2+ ions from the cytosol, necessary for the efficient relaxation of cardiac muscle cells, is performed by the Ca2+-pumping ATPase of the sarcoplasmic reticulum. The calcium pump is activated by cyclic AMP- and calmodulin-dependent phosphorylation of phospholamban, an integral membrane protein of the sarcoplasmic reticulum. Using a heterobifunctional crosslinking agent which can be cleaved and photoactivated, we provide evidence for a direct interaction between the two proteins. Only the non-phosphorylated form of phospholamban interacts with the ATPase, demonstrating that phospholamban is an endogenous inhibitor that is removed from the ATPase by phosphorylation. Non phosphorylated phospholamban interacts only with the calcium-free conformation of the ATPase and is released when it is converted to the calcium-bound state. We localized the site of interaction to a single peptide isolated after cyanogen bromide cleavage of the ATPase. The peptide derives from a domain just C-terminal to the aspartyl phosphate of the active site. This domain is unique to ATPases of the sarcoplasmic reticulum in that it has no homology with any other phosphorylation-type ion pump. The domain occurs in both slow- and fast-twitch isoforms of the ATPase, even though phospholamban is not expressed in fast-twitch muscles. PMID- 2530455 TI - Movement of microtubules by single kinesin molecules. AB - Kinesin is a motor protein that uses energy derived from ATP hydrolysis to move organelles along microtubules. Using a new technique for measuring the movement produced in vitro by individual kinesin molecules, it is shown that a single kinesin molecule can move a microtubule for several micrometers. New information about the mechanism of force generation by kinesin is presented. PMID- 2530456 TI - [Day care in the nursing home: relieving stress in the household]. PMID- 2530459 TI - Cerebral amyloidosis, ageing and Alzheimer's disease; a contribution from studies on Down's syndrome. AB - Observations concerning the time course of deposition of amyloid within the brain substance and blood vessels in persons, of different ages, with Down's syndrome are used to provide a perspective on the nature of the process of cerebral amyloidosis in Alzheimer's disease. PMID- 2530458 TI - Multiple sclerosis: disability and mortality in a cohort of clinically diagnosed patients. AB - A sample of hospitalized MS patients was selected according to clinical and demographic criteria with the aim of establishing prognostic factors. The sample included 52 patients with first hospitalization from 1 January, 1975, to 31 December, 1976. At follow-up after 12 years a malignant course was observed in 33 patients (death in 13, severe disability in 20 patients). The malignant course was related to age at onset (greater than or equal to 35 years) and higher disability, progressive course and cerebellar symptoms at onset. One half of patients with a relapsing-remitting course entered into a progressive phase of the disease after a mean duration of 7.3 years. PMID- 2530457 TI - Effects of a low-phosphorus, low-nitrogen diet supplemented with essential amino acids and ketoanalogues on serum beta-endorphin in chronic renal failure. AB - The effects of a vegetarian low-protein, low-phosphorus diet supplemented with essential amino acids and ketoanalogues, on the serum beta-endorphin, growth hormone, parathyroid hormone, thyroid hormones (T3 and T4), pituitary TSH and total cortisol were studied in 12 male chronic uremics. beta-Endorphin decreased, as well as growth hormone. Parathyroid hormone and T3 improved significantly, reaching almost normal values. It is hypothesized that the correction of the beta endorphin excess may account in part for the improvement of some endocrinological and metabolic effects exerted by this dietary treatment. The possible pathophysiological mechanisms which could explain the antiendorphinic action of this treatment in uremic patients are discussed, as well as the possible beneficial endocrine and metabolic effects exerted by the fall in circulating beta-endorphin. PMID- 2530460 TI - Familial Alzheimer's disease: genetic analysis related to disease heterogeneity, Down syndrome and human brain evolution. AB - Etiologically heterogeneous subgroups of patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) exist and need to be distinguished so as to better identify genetic causes of familial cases. Furthermore, the presence of AD neuropathology in Down syndrome (trisomy 21) subjects older than 35 years suggests that AD in some cases is caused by dysregulation of expression of genes on chromosome 21. Cerebral metabolic abnormalities in life, and the distribution of AD neuropathology in the post-mortem brain, indicate that AD involves the association neocortices and subcortical regions with which they evolved during evolution of the human brain. Accordingly, understanding the molecular basis of this evolution should elucidate the genetic basis of AD, whereas knowing the genetics of AD should be informative about the genomic changes which promoted brain evolution. PMID- 2530461 TI - Properties of nervous tissue proteoglycans relevant to studies on Alzheimer's disease. AB - Our comments concern certain properties of nervous tissue proteoglycans which were not emphasized in the review by Snow and Wight, with particular attention to the proposed relation of the amyloid beta protein precursor to a heparan sulfate proteoglycan core protein. PMID- 2530463 TI - What role(s) may extracellular matrix, particularly heparan sulfate, play in amyloid of Alzheimer's disease. AB - The authors of this article present and attempt to substantiate the thesis that proteoglycan(s), mainly heparan sulfate, are an important ingredient in the pathogenesis of the amyloid found in persons with Alzheimer's disease. Evidence presented indicates that glycosaminoglycans are regular constituents of many amyloid substances including that of senile plaques and congophilic angiopathy of Alzheimer's disease. It is proposed that the proteoglycans play a role in amyloidogenesis by one or a combination of the following mechanisms: 1) inducing amyloid fibrils containing a predominant beta-pleated sheet structure, 2) influencing amyloid deposition to occur at specific tissue sites and/or 3) prevent amyloid degradation. PMID- 2530462 TI - The biological roles of heparan sulfate proteoglycans in the nervous system. AB - The multiple species of HSPGs within the nervous system have a variety of functions. These include roles in ECM assembly and a contribution from synaptic vesicles to synaptic cleft matrix. Since the Alzheimer beta-protein precursor is structurally very similar to a HSPG, it is most certainly an ECM-associated protein. An outstanding question then is what role ECM plays in the genesis of Alzheimer's plaques. PMID- 2530464 TI - What mediates between beta-amyloid and paired helical filaments? AB - beta-Amyloid precedes helical filaments (PHF), and both appear to be relatively independent alterations, contrary to the previous view. One of the mediators between beta-amyloid and PHF should be a trophic factor(s). Unbalanced trophic activities in the AD brain result in massive sprouting of vulnerable neurons, leading to their exhaustion and death. PMID- 2530466 TI - [The application of vascular endoscope for the extracranial cerebrovascular occlusive disease: the development of the endoscopic system]. AB - Flexible thin fiber catheter is applied as vascular endoscope for occlusive lesions in the extracranial cerebral arteries. This fiber catheter is introduced transfemorally through 6 or 7 french-sized double lumen balloon catheters. Vascular endoscope clearly demonstrates the internal surface of these vessels by transient occlusion of the proximal side of the vessel through balloon inflation. The occlusive lesions in the subclavian artery or in the proximal vertebral artery were revealed as round smooth-surfaced mass to be treated by the percutaneous transluminal angioplasty. PMID- 2530465 TI - Modulation of ATPase activities in the central nervous system by the S-100 proteins. AB - The isomeric forms of bovine S-100a and S-100b have been shown to stimulate ATPase activities in fractions enriched in myelin and mitochondria isolated from the Gerbil brain and for S-100b more effectively than for calmodulin in erythrocytes or skeletal muscle. In the presence of Ca2+, S-100a produced a slight increase of ATPase activity in the mitochondrial fraction. However, S-100b in the presence of Zn2+ almost doubled the ATPase activity in brain myelin. S 100a, or S-100b, with or without Ca2+ and Zn2+ respectively, had no effect on the ATPase activity in mitochondria of the Gerbil liver. The observations may indicate a "second messenger" role for S-100b in the presence of Zn2+ in the Schwann cell. PMID- 2530467 TI - Synthetic opioids compared with morphine and ketamine: catalepsy, cross-tolerance and interactions in the rat. AB - Previously it has been shown in rats that both ketamine and morphine induced analgesia and, at larger doses, catalepsy and loss of the righting reflex, all of which were reversed by naloxone at widely different doses. Tolerance developed rapidly to either ketamine or morphine and there was cross-tolerance from ketamine to morphine. However, morphine potentiated the cataleptic effect of ketamine, whether fully-effective doses of morphine were given before ketamine or subeffective doses of both were given concurrently. The present study extends these observations to three specific mu-receptor agonists (sufentanil, fentanyl and alfentanil) and two mu- and kappa-agonist, mu-antagonist opioids (nalbuphine and butorphanol). All five of these opioids potentiated the cataleptic effect of ketamine. Each of the three specific mu agonists showed rapid development of tolerance. Fentanyl and alfentanil showed mutual cross-tolerance with ketamine, but sufentanil did not. This lack of sufentanil-ketamine cross-tolerance may reflect separation of the sites of agonist action and the sites of development of tolerance for the opioids and for ketamine. The potentiating effects of nalbuphine and butorphanol suggest that they potentiate ketamine-induced catalepsy, either by kappa-receptor interactions or by a mu agonist effect. It is suggested that the cataleptic effect of a combination of individually subeffective doses of ketamine and morphine, rather than ketamine and one of the synthetic opioids, might be of more potential clinical usefulness. PMID- 2530468 TI - [3H]5-hydroxytryptamine binding sites in postmortem human brain. AB - Binding sites for [3H]5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) in postmortem human frontal cortex, hippocampus and amygdala were studied by displacement with 5-HT selective drugs. The results demonstrated the selective labelling of 5-HT1-like sites by [3H]5-HT in the cortex, with little or no labelling of 5-HT2 or 5-HT3 sites. Self displacement of the binding of [3H]5-HT is consistent with the presence of a single population of sites, indicating that 5-HT is non-selective for the 5-HT1 subtypes. Around 40% of the 5-HT1 sites in the frontal cortex and amygdala were of the 5-HT1A subtype, in contrast to 60% in the hippocampus. The drug RU 24969 consistently displaced with, a high affinity, a greater proportion of [3H]5-HT sites than did 8-OH-DPAT in all three regions of the brain. The nature of these additional sites was not established. A small proportion (less than 10%) of [3H]5 HT sites in the frontal cortex appeared to be of the 5-HT1C subtype, as these sites were displaced with high affinity by mianserin. PMID- 2530469 TI - An antiserum to atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) cross-reacts with neurophysins in the hypothalamo-neurohypophysial system of rat brain. AB - The distribution of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF)-like reactivity was examined in rat brain and heart by immunohistochemistry. Immunostaining in heart was confined to atrial myocytes. In the hypothalamus, ANF-absorbable immunoreactivity was observed in magnocellular perikarya of the paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei, and in their projections to the neural lobe of the pituitary gland. No staining was seen in the preoptic or arcuate hypothalamic nuclei or in brain stem nuclei as previously reported by other investigators. The patterns of reactivity for ANF reported here is similar to that observed for neurophysins (NPs). Comparison of sequence data between rat ANF-28 and bovine NPs revealed three regions of 3 amino acid homology between these hypothalamic peptides. Preabsorption of the ANF antiserum with Affigel-coupled bovine NP I also resulted in complete elimination of all "ANF-immunoreactivity" in both atrium and hypothalamus. Cross-reactivity of the ANF antiserum with bovine NP I and II was further confirmed by Western blot analysis. Our findings suggest that ANF antisera can cross-react with NPs if they are directed against the shared antigenic epitopes; complete elimination of staining by preabsorption of the antibody with the immunogen, therefore, does not guarantee authenticity of localization. These observations may have relevance to an earlier study which reported on the existence of ANF-immunoreactivity in oxytocin neurons of the hypothalamus. PMID- 2530470 TI - [Epidemiology of hepatitis B virus infection in the personnel of a psychiatric hospital]. AB - The prevalence of Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) markers was studied in 350 staff members from a Psychiatric Hospital, where a high prevalence of HBV markers was observed among patients. The prevalence of HBsAg, anti-HBs plus anti-HBc, anti HBc alone and anti-HBs alone were determined to be: 2%, 15.1%, 4% and 0.3%, respectively. The prevalence of HBV markers was greater (although not significant) among women (24.7%) as compared to men (17.8%) (p greater than 0.05), and in the personnel with more than 20 years of employment (24.1%), as compared to those with less than 20 years (20% (p greater than 0.05). The highest prevalence of infection was observed in the department in which were admitted children and young adults. The overall prevalence of HBV markers was higher among staff members than in the blood donors of our area. Hospital personnel must know such epidemiologic conditions: active immunization with the Hepatitis B vaccine must be offered to hospital employees, firstly in those institutions in which a high prevalence of HBV infection has been documented. PMID- 2530471 TI - Water immersion induced alterations of atrial natriuretic peptide in patients with non-inflammatory acute renal failure. AB - Water immersion induced alterations of plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), circulating plasma volume (PV), plasma sodium and potassium and mean blood pressure (MAP) were examined in 12 patients with non-inflammatory acute renal failure (ARF) and in 15 healthy subjects. In patients with ARF a significantly elevated basal ANP (139 +/- 13 pg/ml versus 75 +/- 4 pg/ml in normals) and elevated MAP (112 +/- 3.5 mmHg versus 87 +/- 2 mmHg in normals) were found. Water immersion induced a significant increase in plasma ANP in both groups, which was significantly more marked in healthy subjects (152 +/- 13 pg/ml) than in patients with ARF (86 +/- 13 pg/ml). Water immersion was accompanied by a significantly more marked reduction of MAP (23 +/- 3 mmHg) and plasma sodium (6.1 +/- 0.6 mmol/l) in patients with ARF than in normals (12.7 +/- 1.5 mmHg and 4.2 +/- 0.1 mmol/l respectively). In contrast to healthy subjects, in patients with ARF water immersion did not induce enhanced diuresis. In patients with ARF a significantly more marked increase in plasma volume was found than in normals. Data obtained in this study seem to prove preservation of the physiological regulatory mechanism of ANP secretion in ARF patients but reduction of ANP release induced by central volume expansion. The importance of elevated basal plasma values in the maintenance of ARF has not been proven. PMID- 2530472 TI - Circulating T-lymphocyte sub-subsets and NK-like cells in renal transplant patients: patterns associated with rejection. AB - The patterns of circulating T sub-subset and NK-like cells were monitored in 87 renal transplant patients on a total of 122 occasions. Combinations of monoclonal antibodies were used in two-colour flow cytometric (FACS) analysis to define the major T helper/inducer and T suppressor/cytotoxic subsets and their activated counterparts, the T suppressor inducer and T suppressor effector sub-subsets, NK like cells and their activated counterparts. In patients with rejection, the proportions of T suppressor inducer and T suppressor effector cells were less and the proportion of activated NK-like cells greater compared with cases exhibiting stable graft function, and these group differences were highly significant. Analysis with stepwise multivariate logistic regression showed that combinations of several functional/activated lymphocyte subsets allow a predictive diagnostic power which is superior to the use of single variables. PMID- 2530473 TI - Behavioral evaluation of the anti-excitotoxic properties of MK-801: comparison with neurochemical measurements. AB - The ability of MK-801 to protect striatal neurons from the excitotoxic action of quinolinic acid was evaluated by means of apomorphine-induced rotational behavior and by measurement of striatal choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) and glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) activity, neurochemical markers for cholinergic and GABAergic neurons, respectively. Animals with a unilateral quinolinic acid lesion of the striatum exhibited a vigorous rotational response when challenged with apomorphine (0.5 mg/kg, s.c.) 6 days later and were found to have an 88 90% depletion of striatal ChAT and GAD activity. Treatment with a high dose of MK-801 (10 mg/kg, i.p.) prior to intrastriatal injection of quinolinic acid eliminated the subsequent rotational response to apomorphine and resulted in complete protection of striatal ChAT and GAD activity. Lower doses of MK-801 (1, 3 and 5 mg/kg, i.p.) failed to significantly reduce the rotational response to apomorphine but provided partial, dose-dependent protection of both ChAT and GAD activity. The rotational response to apomorphine correlated with the percent reduction in both ChAT activity (r = 0.57, P less than 0.0005) and GAD activity (r = 0.49, P less than 0.0005). Rotational behavior may thus provide a means to evaluate the functional integrity of the striatum. PMID- 2530474 TI - Evidence for a widespread dopaminergic innervation of the human cerebral neocortex. AB - The recent finding that D1 dopamine receptors are present in all neocortical areas of the human brain, does not fit in with the generally held view that the mesocortical dopaminergic pathway is restricted to prefrontal areas. We investigated the brains of 3 patients who died with a unilateral infarction in the ventral midbrain, including the substantia nigra and ventral tegmental area. Compared to the intact side, the D1 receptors in frontal, temporal, parietal and occipital cortices and caudate nucleus at the lesioned side were increased by 27 37%, which is consistent with an up-regulation in response to a depletion of dopamine. These data provide evidence for a more widespread dopaminergic innervation of the human neocortex. PMID- 2530475 TI - Production of extracellular quinolinic acid in the striatum studied by microdialysis in unanesthetized rats. AB - Striatal microdialysis was performed in awake rats in an attempt to produce extracellular quinolinic acid (QUIN) from its putative bioprecursors L tryptophan, L-kynurenine and 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid (3HANA). Test compounds were included in the microperfusion solution. QUIN concentrations in the dialysate remained below the assay sensitivity (i.e. less than 20 nM) under baseline conditions or after extensive perfusion with 1 mM L-tryptophan or L kynurenine. 3HANA (10-300 microM) caused dose-dependent increases in extracellular QUIN, which attained steady-state concentrations after 4 h. The initial rate of QUIN production was significantly increased in the ibotenate lesioned striatum, suggesting a pivotal role of astroglia in the deposition of brain QUIN. PMID- 2530476 TI - Tryptophan hydroxylase activity in hypothalamus and brainstem of neonatal and adult rats treated with hydrocortisone or parachlorophenylalanine. AB - The present study has been undertaken to determine whether glucocorticoid, and parachlorophenylalanine (PCPA, a tryptophan hydroxylase inhibitor) affects tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH) levels in brainstem and hypothalamus of neonatal and adult rats. Our results show that: (1) administration of hydrocortisone causes small but significant increases in TPH activity of neonatal brainstem: (2) treatment with PCPA plus glucocorticoid results in a marked decrease of TPH activity in brainstem and hypothalamus of both neonatal and adult rats. PMID- 2530478 TI - Neurochemical correlates of brain-stimulation reward measured by ex vivo and in vivo analyses. AB - Evidence from ex vivo analyses of dopaminergic function following self stimulation behavior is reviewed and compared to in vivo analyses of extracellular dopamine measured by chronoamperometry during self-stimulation. Both data bases provide strong support for a dopaminergic substrate for brain stimulation reward obtained by electrical stimulation of the ventral tegmental area (VTA). Data obtained from in vivo measures of dopamine release are particularly compelling as a positive correlation was observed between the rate/intensity function for self-stimulation and increments in the oxidation current for dopamine. An examination of the effects of the dopamine uptake blockers, cocaine and GBR 12909 on self-stimulation and stimulated release of dopamine revealed a facilitation of both measures. In contrast, the noradrenaline uptake blocker desipramine had no effect on either self-stimulation or extracellular dopamine. These pharmacological experiments also are consistent with a dopaminergic substrate of brain-stimulation reward at electrode sites in the VTA. PMID- 2530477 TI - Subtypes of dopamine receptors involved in the mechanism of reinforcement. AB - Advancement in the study of receptors for neurotransmitters facilitated the analysis of neural mechanisms underlying reinforcement. Two subtypes of dopamine receptors, D1 and D2, play distinct roles in producing reinforcing effects. Experiments using SCH 23390 suggest that the reinforcing effects of food, water, saccharin, heroin and brain stimulation all critically depend on the activation of D1 dopamine receptors, particularly those in the nucleus accumbens and the ventral tegmental area. Raclopride, a D2 dopamine antagonist, also reduced bar pressing responses for food, heroin, and brain stimulation. Thus, both D1 and D2 receptors seem to be involved in the reinforcement mechanisms. There were some differences between D1 and D2 dopamine antagonists in the manner of reducing operant responding. It appears that D1 receptors are related to the efficacy of reinforcements while D2 receptors are related to the type of reinforcers. PMID- 2530479 TI - A sensitive qualitative pregnancy test (ICON) and ultrasound in the diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy. AB - Three hundred and twenty-four patients presenting to Wellington Women's Hospital with symptoms suspicious of an ectopic pregnancy were first studied by testing serum for HCG using a new simple and sensitive (25 mIU/mL) ICON pregnancy test. One hundred and thirty ICON tests were positive. Subsequent management: (a) Immediate laparoscopy noted 3 intrauterine and 15 ectopic pregnancies. (b) Twenty five patients discharged on revised clinical grounds without pregnancies. (c) An immediate ultrasound examination of 87 women showed 58 intrauterine pregnancies (including 1 misdiagnosed ectopic pregnancy) and 29 ectopic pregnancies which were later confirmed at laparoscopy. One hundred and ninety-four ICON tests were negative including two false negative results in patients with ectopic pregnancies. To avoid both unnecessary laparoscopy or the discharge of patients with a possible ectopic pregnancy, patients with symptoms and signs suspicious of an ectopic pregnancy and who present to hospital should have a rapid sensitive HCG assay. Then, if the test is positive (sensitivity 96%), an ultrasound examination can assist in determining the likely site of the pregnancy. PMID- 2530480 TI - Fetal biometry as a screening tool for the detection of chromosomally abnormal pregnancies. AB - Recent studies suggest that fetal biometry may allow recognition of pregnancies at risk for Down syndrome. Second-trimester biparietal diameter (BPD)/femur length and observed-to-expected femur length ratios were examined in 48 chromosomally abnormal fetuses and compared with those of a control population composed of both low-risk patients (maternal age less than 35 years) and high risk patients (maternal age 35 years or more). Biparietal diameter/femur length ratio correctly identified 18% of Down syndrome pregnancies with a positive predictive value of one in 169 and a false-positive rate of only 4%. When trisomies 21, 18, and 13 were considered collectively, a sensitivity of 29% and a predictive value of one in 78 were achieved, with no increase in the false positive rate (4%). Observed-to-expected femur length ratio was less valuable in detecting chromosomally abnormal fetuses. These data suggest that the BPD/femur length ratio holds promise as a screening tool for the antenatal detection of fetal chromosomal abnormalities. Although encouraging, extrapolation of these results to other centers is not recommended without independent verification. PMID- 2530481 TI - New hepatitis-B vaccine approved. PMID- 2530482 TI - Computerized dynamometry may help manage worker low-back dysfunction. PMID- 2530483 TI - Tangential-radial traction suturing technique for intrascleral foreign material implantation. AB - We used an intrascleral implantation technique to anchor a keratoprosthesis in the limbal sclera of 22 rabbits' eyes. The tangential-radial traction used in this procedure enabled multivectorial traction forces to be applied while maintaining a tight junction between the biological tissue and the foreign material. During 29 weeks of follow-up there was no postoperative leakage, no cataracts developed, and the anterior chamber was maintained in all the eyes at all times. No ocular infection developed in any eye during the first postoperative month. The compound-force traction used in this procedure may prove useful in other areas of ocular surgery. PMID- 2530484 TI - Evidence for somatic cell expression of the c-mos protein [corrected]. AB - The c-mos protein has been found to be enriched in germ cells of male mice, as described in a recent report from this laboratory (Herzog et al., Oncogene 3, 225, 1988). We report on further studies which indicate that the c-mos protein (a 41 to 43 kDa protein termed p43c-mos) is expressed in somatic tissues of mice and in cells grown in culture. In testes of mice, germ cell fractions have increased levels of p43c-mos relative to other cells of the testes. However, non-germ cells harbor significant levels of p43c-mos, as judged by comparison of testes from normal mice to those with mutations that affect the germ cell content of the testes. Thus, homozygous S1, at, and the W/Wv mutant mice are sterile due to severe deficiencies of germ cells. Such mice had only an estimated 50%-60% reduction in p43c-mos as judged by western immunoblotting using two different site-directed anti-mos antibodies. Similarly, X/X-sex reversed mice in which germ cells die after 10 days of age had only an 85% reduction of p43c-mos in mice 35 days of age. Thus, the germ cell content of testes did not correlated with p43c mos levels in this tissue. Direct analyses of non-germ cells derived from mouse testes confirmed these findings, since Sertoli and Leydig cell lines grown in culture expressed p43c-mos. In addition, tissues such as kidney, liver, spleen and brain were found to contain p43c-mos. Surprisingly, mouse NIH3T3 cells were found to express significant levels of the c-mos protein based upon immunoblotting and one-dimensional peptide mapping experiments performed with both anti-mos antibodies. The concentration of the c-mos protein was not affected by expression of viral mos proteins. We conclude that the c-mos protein is enriched in male germ cells, but p43c-mos is also expressed in significant amounts in somatic tissues and in fibroblastic cells grown in culture. PMID- 2530485 TI - Distribution of pain provoked from lumbar facet joints and related structures during diagnostic spinal infiltration. AB - This paper describes the patterns of pain induced from lumbar facet joints, from the posterior primary rami of L5, and from the medial articular branches of the posterior primary rami from T11 to L4 in patients undergoing diagnostic spinal infiltrations for chronic pain. No consistent segmental or sclerotomal pattern was found in 385 observations on 138 patients. Pain radiating to the buttock or trochanteric region occurred mostly from the L4 and L5 levels, while groin pain was produced from L2 to L5. The nerves supplying the facet joints gave rise to distal referral of pain significantly more commonly than the joints themselves. PMID- 2530486 TI - Clinical assessment and interpretation of abnormal illness behaviour in low back pain. AB - Patients with chronic low back pain present with a mixture of symptoms and signs. Some are a direct consequence of physical pathology whereas others are attributable to associated and appropriate psychological and behavioural changes. At times the latter may be out of keeping with the degree of physical pathology and thus have specific significance in terms of the affective and cognitive disturbances that are also present and which may be the basis for abnormal illness behaviour. In an attempt to demonstrate more clearly the relationship between physical, psychological and behavioural components of illness, this paper draws on two data sets in patients with low back pain. The first explores the relationship between behavioural symptoms and signs, objective physical impairment, pain and disability and psychometric measures of distress together with scales making up the illness behaviour questionnaire (IBQ) of Pilowsky and Spence. A second data set is used to assess the value of the IBQ in understanding how psychological distress and behavioural signs and symptoms are related to the outcome of surgical treatment. The results gained reveal that behavioural symptoms and signs are directly related to the physical severity of low back disorder, the patient's report of pain and disability and the outcome of surgical treatment. Scores on the IBQ were strongly related to measures of affective disturbance and psychological distress. More specifically the disease affirmation scale of the IBQ, incorporating scales for disease conviction and psychological versus somatic focussing was an important dimension in relation to the behavioural symptoms and signs, thereby confirming results gained by other workers. Disease conviction and lack of response to clinicians' reassurances regarding illness - a situation in which abnormal illness behaviour is often deemed to exist - should not be seen simply as a function of the disease process, but more as a psychological coping mechanism for certain individuals under stress. The significance of this observation is discussed in relation to decisions regarding the overall assessment of chronic pain patients and their treatment. PMID- 2530487 TI - Determinants of return-to-work among low back pain patients. AB - This prospective study identifies physical, behavioral, and psychosocial correlates of subsequent employment status in a sample of low back pain patients. The sample of 150 subjects was drawn from 2 populations of persons with chronic low back pain: 87 individuals who were receiving care at a university low back pain clinic, and 63 individuals who had applied for (but not yet received) Social Security compensation on the basis of low back pain. All subjects had worked at least 3 months prior to their latest unemployment period and were currently out of work. Initial assessment included a medical history, physical examination, biomechanical testing, psychiatric interview, and MMPI testing. All subjects were followed up 6 months later to determine whether they had returned to work. Cross sectional group comparisons at the time of initial assessment showed that, after controlling for the effects of age, the two samples differed on several physical and biomechanical measures, the Social Security group reflecting a more chronic picture. Group differences on physical variables were found, but most significant differences disappeared when adjusted for length of time out-of-work. Longitudinal analyses showed that few objective physical or biomechanical measures were associated with return-to-work at 6 months, while a number of psychosocial variables were significant predictors of 6-month work status. The data suggest that exclusive reliance on the physical examination to determine level of disability, without consideration of psychosocial conditions, and without adjusting for the confounding effects of age and length of time out-of work, is not empirically justified. Logistic regression analysis was used to ascertain the relative contribution of each predictor to outcome and to illustrate the hypothetical effects of changes in the levels of selected risk factors on the likelihood of return-to-work. Implications for interventions with low back pain patients are discussed and future research directions suggested. PMID- 2530488 TI - Chronic low back pain and the reaction to repeated acute pain stimulation. AB - Previous research has shown an interaction between chronic and acute pain behavior. Chronic low back pain (CLBP) patients seem to have a higher pain perception threshold and a lower pain tolerance than pain-free controls. The major focus is, however, on another aspect of pain behavior: habituation of the pain response after repeated stimulation. Habituation of the pain perception threshold was found for control subjects but not for CLBP patients. Inability to habituate to pain may be regarded as a risk factor in the development of CLBP. PMID- 2530489 TI - [The spatial structure and interrelation of plerocercoids of Digramma interrupta (Cestoda, Ligulidae) and the bream (Abramis brama) in the Kuibyshev reservoir]. AB - The character of the distribution of the plerocercoid D. interrupta in the bream Abramis brama from the Kuibyshev water reservoir was studied. The spread of the parasites in A. brama population is of complex character and changes with the increase of fish body length. The factors affecting the maintenance and regulation of the relationships in the host-parasite system (size composition of fishes, peculiarities of the host's genotype, values of occurrence of different numbers of the parasites, variability of plerocercoids) are discussed. PMID- 2530490 TI - [A population analysis of the variability of the hooklets in the cestode Triaenophorus crassus]. AB - The paper presents data on the variability of attachment organs in the cestode Triaenophorus crassus, a parasite of freshwater fishes. The greatest range of variability of all the characters is typical of whitefish, a fish with a long life cycle, while the shortest one is characteristic of vendace and young of trout. It is suggested that the stay of the parasite in fishes, associated with host age, is accompanied by the increase in average sizes of hooks and variability range. Such an approach together with the analysis of hooks variability gives the possibility to estimate the participation of secondary intermediate hosts in the circulation of the parasite in the water body. PMID- 2530491 TI - [The distribution of fleas of the genus Xenopsylla in the Ustyurt]. AB - The distribution areas of the main plague vectors of Xenopsylla fleas (X. skrjabini, X. gerbilli, X. nuttalli) in the Ustyurt are given for the first time. They are found to be of great practical significance in the evaluation of the epizootic situation. PMID- 2530492 TI - [Sanatorium treatment of children with peptic ulcer]. PMID- 2530493 TI - [Subcutaneous fat deposition in Azerbaijan children 7-15 years of age]. PMID- 2530494 TI - [Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis]. AB - The authors report the case of a young patient who developed an eruption resembling an acute generalized pustular dermatitis after amoxicillin therapy for a tonsillitis. The nosological distinctions between this clinical entity and pustular psoriasis are discussed. PMID- 2530495 TI - [Ichthyosis linked to the X chromosome. Biochemical and endocrinologic study]. AB - The case of a 6-year-old male patient suffering from X-chromosome-linked ichthyosis is presented. There was no steroid sulfatase activity in the proband's leucocytes and cutaneous fibroblasts. The activity was decreased in the proband's mother's leucocytes and in one brother, affected by a mild ichthyosis. Basal plasma levels of dehydroepiandrosterone and its sulfate were normal for the patient's age, suggesting that sulfates do not play a significant role in the production of free steroids. After 3 intramuscular injections of 1,500 units of human chorionic gonadotropin, plasma levels of testosterone increased normally, indicating that there was no associated primary gonadal insufficiency. PMID- 2530496 TI - Reaction times of Down syndrome and other mentally retarded individuals. PMID- 2530498 TI - Nucleotide sequence of a cDNA encoding the monkey cellular phosphoprotein p53. PMID- 2530497 TI - Molecular organization of sbcC, a gene that affects genetic recombination and the viability of DNA palindromes in Escherichia coli K-12. AB - The sbcC gene product of Escherichia coli interferes with the growth of a lambda red gam phage carrying a long palindrome in its DNA. This phenotype was used to identify recombinant plasmids harbouring the wild-type gene and to isolate sbcC mutant derivatives carrying Tn1000 insertions. Analysis of these plasmids located sbcC between proC and phoR at a slightly different position from that reported before (Lloyd, R.G. and Buckman, C. 1985, J. Bacteriol. 164, 836-844). Nucleotide sequencing revealed that the gene spans a DNA segment of 3.3 kb that encodes a poorly expressed protein of 118 kDa and which lies downstream of a gene of unknown function that encodes a polypeptide of 45 kDa. The amino acid sequence of SbcC contains a nucleotide binding fold similar to that in RecB and other recombination proteins. PMID- 2530500 TI - [Atrial natriuretic peptide and arterial hypertension]. PMID- 2530499 TI - [Morphological picture of lesions to substantia nigra of rats following intracardial administration of quinolinic acid]. AB - Quinolinic acid is tryptophan metabolite and one of the known endogenous substance of selective neurotoxic properties. Morphological studies on noxious effect of quinolinic acid on the black substance of the brain of rats following intracardial administration of this acid were carried out. Dependence of the lesions on the dose and time of use were analysed. No lesions to the black substance were noted following a series of everyday injections of quinolinic acid in the dose of 30 mol/ml for 4 and 8 days. Degenerative changes in the neurons of black substance appeared after a dose of 60 mol/ml injected everyday for 4 days. These changes exacerbated significantly after 8 days. Generalized neuronal defects and intensive degenerative lesions in the preserved neurons with signs of decomposition of fibrous elements of tissular basis followed an administration of quinolinic acid in the dose of 100 mol/ml for 4 and 8 consecutive days. PMID- 2530501 TI - [Effect of atrial natriuretic factor on arterial blood pressure and frequency of heart contraction in rats with genetically determined hypertension and in normotensive rats]. AB - An effect of peptide released by the heart atria of mammals and called the atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) on blood pressure and heart contractions was studied in rats with genetically determined arterial hypertension (SHR) and in normotensive Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY). Nine male SHR rats and 11 male WKY rats, aged between 12 and 16 weeks, were given normal saline infusion for 30 minutes through implanted catheters to both ulnar vein and artery. Then, an infusion of ANF at the rate of 0.3 microgram/kg per hour followed for 35 minutes. An infusion of ANF produces significant decrease in the mean arterial blood pressure, systolic and diastolic pressures without significant effect on pulse pressure and heart contractions. AFN infusion with the same rate did not produce any significant differences in the arterial blood pressure and heart contractions in Wistar-Kyoto rats. The obtained results suggest that ANF may play a role in pathogenesis of the arterial blood hypertension. PMID- 2530502 TI - [Effect of long-term treatment with guanfacine on selected humoral metabolic indices in patients with primary hypertension]. AB - An effect of the treatment with guanfacine on the activity of the adreno sympathetic system, beta-thromboglobulin, beta-endorphin, and blood lipids was studied in 30 patients with the primary arterial blood hypertension. It was found that guanfacine significantly decreases plasma noradrenaline, adrenaline, and dopamine. Moreover, it decreases the excretion of noradrenaline, adrenaline and 4 hydroxy-3-methoxy-phenylglycol. These effects correlate with the drop in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. A decrease in plasma renin activity was also observed. It correlated with the blood pressure drops. Guanfacine increased beta-endorphin levels while beta-thromboglobulin, total cholesterol and triglycerides levels remained unaffected. The authors suggest that the hypotensive effect of guanfacine is related to the decrease in adreno-sympathetic system activity and plasma renin activity and no effect on the erythrocyte activity and lipids metabolism. PMID- 2530504 TI - A comparison of disabled adults' perceived quality of life in nursing facility and home settings. AB - In an attempt to prevent premature institutionalization of disabled adults, some states have developed services funded under a Medicaid waiver to maintain these clients in their homes. Evaluation reports of these programs have emphasized cost analysis and have described various approaches to case management. No studies have reported on the quality of life of the clients receiving the services. In this exploratory study, the quality of life of 20 clients in a community long term care program was compared with that of 20 persons requiring comparable levels of care but residing in a nursing home. Mean scores on the quality of life measure were virtually equal for the two groups, but the distribution of scores by group was very different. Demographically the groups differed. Community residents were younger than nursing home residents and included a larger percentage of blacks. Part of one's judgment of quality of life may stem from a comparison of oneself with one's peers. Verbal, oriented nursing home residents may rate themselves more favorably in comparison to peers with dementia, while community residents compare themselves with healthy adults and rate their quality of life as lower. PMID- 2530503 TI - Neonatal hypertension and cardiomegaly associated with a congenital neuroblastoma. AB - A neonate who died 12 days after birth from complications related to a congenital neuroblastoma is described. Hypertension and congestive heart failure occurred soon after birth. Hospital course was marked by a consumptive coagulopathy and the development of acute renal and hepatic failure. At autopsy the heart was hypertrophied but normally formed. Although there was elevated urinary excretion of vanilmandelic acid and homovanillic acid, levels of epinephrine, norepinephrine, metanephrine, and normetanephrine were not documented. This case shows that a congenital neuroblastoma may be associated with hypertension and cardiomegaly in the neonatal period. PMID- 2530505 TI - Effects of (-)15-deoxyspergualin on pancreatic islet B-cell function in vitro and on the development of diabetes after multiple low dose streptozotocin administration. AB - The effects of (-)15-deoxyspergualin (15-DS), a newly described immunosuppressive drug, have been investigated on diabetes induced in mice treated with multiple low-dose streptozotocin (multiple SZ). Male C3D2F1 mice were treated with either intraperitoneal injections of saline or 15-DS (2.5 mg/kg body weight) for a total of 10 days, starting during the first day of SZ administration (5 days; 40 mg/kg body weight). On day 14, 15-DS-treated animals were still normoglycaemic, whilst on day 21 there was only a partial reduction in the hyperglycaemia compared to that found in the saline treated animals receiving SZ. 15-DS did not prevent hyperglycaemia in the long run (day 35-63). Furthermore, morphological examinations of pancreatic glands suggested that the insulitis in the pancreatic islets was delayed in the 15-DS-treated animals. In control experiments mice were treated with 15-DS+ the vehicle for SZ. This regimen did not hamper the glucose homeostasis of the animals. In vitro effects of 15-DS were also examined. Isolated islets from C3D2F1 mice were cultured at different concentrations of 15 DS (0.1-10.0 mg/l). After one week in culture, islet insulin release, islet insulin and DNA content were measured. The islets looked fluffy after culture at the higher 15-DS concentrations (4.0-10.0 mg/l) and at 10 mM almost all of the islets disappeared. A dose-dependent reduction of glucose-stimulated insulin release could also be seen. In other experiments islets were exposed to SZ and subsequently cultured in the presence of 0.5 mM 15-DS, however, 15-DS could not prevent the reduction in insulin release due to SZ exposure. Since 15-DS influences macrophage functions, the presently observed protective effects against the multiple SZ-treatment could reflect a reduced local interleukin-1 production in the islet vicinity. Alternatively, a lowered interleukin-1 secretion could prevent the activation of other immune cells involved in the destruction of B-cells. PMID- 2530506 TI - The effect of toluene exposure for up to 18 months (78 weeks) on the (Ca2+/Mg2+)ATPase and fluidity of synaptosomal membranes isolated from rat brain. AB - The effect of toluene on the central nerve system was studied by using rat brain synaptosomal membranes as in vitro and in vivo models. The activity of Ca2+/Mg2+ ATPase and the membrane fluidity were determined. Short-term exposure in vivo to 500 p.p.m. of toluene had an inhibitory effect on the enzyme studied whereas long term exposure to toluene caused an increased activity. Exposure to toluene had no effect at all on the membrane fluidity. The in vitro experiment showed an effect of toluene on both parameters. The alteration in the enzyme activity and membrane fluidity was parallel in the exposed animals as well as those of control. Our results show that long-term exposure to toluene affects nerve cell membranes by other mechanisms than those observed under in vitro conditions. PMID- 2530507 TI - Hormonal, haemodynamic, and subjective effects of intravenously infused indomethacin: no change in the physiological response to hypertonic saline challenge. AB - This double-blind, placebo-controlled human study was performed to determine the endocrine responses to intravenously administered indomethacin at two dose rates (0.36 or 0.72 mg/kg bolus followed by 0.071 or 0.143 mg/kg/hr for 150 min.). A 5% hypertonic saline infusion was used for further assess the hormonal systems regulating body fluid and electrolyte balance. Plasma renin activity (PRA) and concentrations of aldosterone and vasopressin (AVP) were unaffected by indomethacin. Hypertonic saline caused a 5% increase in plasma sodium and a 4.2% increase in serum osmolality, with a concomitant two-fold rise in plasma AVP levels and significant declines in PRA and aldosterone. Indomethacin had no effects on these responses, and did not affect plasma catecholamine concentrations, but the hypertonic saline infusion doubled the noradrenaline levels in plasma. Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP)-like immunoreactivity in plasma was not affected by indomethacin nor by hypertonic saline. The higher dose rate of indomethacin resulted in significant stimulation of growth hormone release, but plasma prolactin levels were not influenced. Thus acute intravenous administration of indomethacin proved to be devoid of significant effects on the multihormonal system regulating fluid and electrolyte balance. PMID- 2530508 TI - ["Better parenthood"--child rearing behavior of mothers with handicapped children and their evaluation by specialists]. AB - Rejection, overprotectiveness and overindulgence are often found as educational attitudes in parents of handicapped children. The rehabilitation experts' own educational preferences were examined by questionnaire and confronted with those of the parents. The results suggest a interactional pattern of hidden struggle between experts and parents for being the "best parent". PMID- 2530509 TI - [Coping with a handicapped child]. AB - The birth of a handicapped child is a non-normative event the mother has to come to terms with individually. It has been examined whether mothers who had contacts with the handicapped before the birth of their handicapped child had acquired qualifications to cope with this situation. A group of twelve mothers with specific experience was compared to a group of twelve mothers without any much experience, under consideration of control variables involved. Changes in the self-image, the mood and the choice of existence techniques were assessed in a longitudinal and a cross section survey over a period of seven years using standardized methods and a semistructured self report. Evaluation by non parametric and variance analyses showed that women who disposed of experience data before the occurrence of the critical event coped with the new experience of being personally concerned with small identity restriction over a limited period of time. The social development of their children was significantly better. Though not showing any pathological reactions, women without any prior experience showed less confidence in their own possibilities, tended towards a rather anxious and depressive general mood, and confined themselves to a narrowed range of contact experiences. Learning by practical experience proved to be more helpful in the mastery of this non-normative event than information, the activating moment not being the novelty of the situation but the specific experiences made. PMID- 2530510 TI - [Current treatment of ureteral calculi]. PMID- 2530511 TI - [Heart-lung transplantation]. PMID- 2530512 TI - [Severe gastroduodenal ulcer hemorrhage. Treatment with endoscopic injections of an epinephrine solution]. AB - Eighty-three patients (more than one half of whom were at high surgical risk) presenting with haemorrhages from a gastric or duodenal ulcer were treated with endoscopic injections of an epinephrine-hypertonic saline mixture. The overall rate of definitive haemostasis was 83 p. 100. Depending on the degree of haemorrhagic activity, this rate was 64 p. 100 in pulsatile lesions, 90.5 p. 100 in oozing lesions, 85.7 p. 100 in cases with visible vessels and 81.2 p. 100 when signs of recent bleeding were present. There was no dangerous complication related to the technique. The overall survival rate was 67.5 p. 100 and 20 out of the 26 deaths were due to other causes than haemorrhages. On follow-up, 94.7 p. 100 of the ulcers healed under antisecretory treatment within the usual length of time. This simple, effective and inexpensive technique is suggested as initial treatment of gastric or duodenal haemorrhages in subjects at high surgical risk, especially since the haemorrhage has no influence on the course of the ulcer. PMID- 2530513 TI - [Neck pain and isolated torticollis revealing neurologic lesions]. AB - Neck pain and torticollis are very common symptoms, but they may reveal an intracranial or cervical neurological disease. Such diseases are easily diagnosed when these two symptoms are associated with others, but in some rare cases, and especially when it is isolated, torticollis may be mistaken for common neck pain. This is what happened in 21 cases and in some patients the neurological disease had been present for a very long time before it was diagnosed. Prior to admission, most patients were treated with massages, cervical collar or manipulations which sometimes resulted in deterioration. A search for atypical features of neck pain and torticollis should avoid delays in diagnosis. PMID- 2530514 TI - [Kingella denitrificans endocarditis on an aortic valve prosthesis]. AB - Kingella denitrificans is a Gram-negative bacillus which does not grow readily on the usual media. This organism, normally a commensal of the upper airways, may exceptionally be responsible for endocarditis. We report here the sixth case known in the literature. Cure was obtained with an intravenous combination of vancomycin and rifampicin. PMID- 2530515 TI - [Precaution in the thrombolytic treatment of myocardial infarction]. PMID- 2530516 TI - [Pseudomonas aeruginosa septicemia in relation to drug perfusion]. PMID- 2530517 TI - [Cervico-mediastinal hemorrhage revealing parathyroid adenoma]. PMID- 2530518 TI - [Digital microembolism after thrombosis of an arteriovenous fistula]. PMID- 2530519 TI - [Subvalvular aortic stenosis in Noonan's syndrome]. PMID- 2530520 TI - [Neurologic manifestations of atrophic polychondritis]. PMID- 2530521 TI - [Role of chronic ambulatory peritoneal dialysis in the care of children with end stage renal failure]. PMID- 2530522 TI - [Renal infarction, single and delayed embolic complication of post-traumatic aortic thrombosis]. PMID- 2530524 TI - [Pasteurella multocida pericarditis]. PMID- 2530523 TI - [A rare complication of intravenous locoregional anesthesia: branchial phlebitis]. PMID- 2530525 TI - [Celioscopic cholecystectomy, an exceptional technic]. PMID- 2530526 TI - [Reversible dementia syndrome due to chronic bromide poisoning caused by drugs]. PMID- 2530528 TI - [Antibacterial effect of cefixime]. AB - Cefixime (CFM) is a new hemi-synthetic orally active cephalosporin which exhibits a particular affinity for PBPs 3, 1a, 1bs. Its penetration through the Gram negative bacilli outer membrane is similar to that of third generation cephalosporins. The MICs were assessed by the agar dilution method against 2,489 bacterial strains collected in 10 hospitals. Against Enterobacteriaceae, MICs50 and 90 are respectively (mg/l): naturally non beta-lactamase-producing species: E. coli and Shigella: 0.25-0.5, Salmonella: 0.06 - 0.25, P. mirabilis: 0.008 - 0.0.32; chromosomal penicillinase producing species: Klebsiella: 0.06 - 2; chromosomal cephalosporinase producing species: E. cloacae and C. freundii: 1 - greater than 128, S. marcescens: 0.25 - 16, Proteus indole: + 0.06 - 4, P. stuartii: 0.032 - 0.5. CFM activity is not altered in strains producing an acquired penicillinase. On the other hand, CFM appears to be inactive against cephalosporinase hyperproducing mutants and its activity is variably decreased against expanded spectrum beta-lactamase producing strains. CFM is inactive against P. aeruginosa (MIC50 and 90: 64 - 128) and against A. baumannii (16 - 128). Haemophilus and gonococci, beta-lactamase producing or not, as well as meningococci, are highly susceptible to CFM (MIC 0.008 - 0.12). B. catarrhalis is usually inhibited by 0.03 to 0.5. CFM is moderately active against meticillin sensitive staphylococci (MIC50 and 90: 1-64), and inactive against meticillin resistant strains. Enterococci are usually resistant, whereas streptococci and pneumococci are inhibited by low concentrations: 0.08 to 1. CFM is a bactericidal antibiotic, as shown by MBC and killing curves determination. These antibacterial properties relate CFM to the third generation cephalosporins and position the compound in an excellent place among the orally active cephalosporins. PMID- 2530527 TI - [Cefixime, the first oral third-generation cephalosporin]. AB - In the early 1980's parenteral third generation cephalosporins changed the hospital use of antibiotics. The MICs of these cephalosporins are several dozen times lower than those of first or second generation cephalosporins for Enterobacteriaceae and they are much more beta-lactamase stable than second generation cephalosporins. After years of research, is has finally been possible to develop orally active compounds possessing the same antibacterial activity as parenteral third generation cephalosporins, either through the use of prodrugs, or by modifying the molecular structure of drugs. Cefixime is an example of the latter. The vinyl group at the 3-position of the cephem nucleus is responsible for the intestinal absorption of the intact molecule, primarily by a carrier mediated transport mechanism. The aminothiazole ring and the R-oxyimino group on the side-chain at the 7-position are associated with an antibacterial activity similar to that of third generation cephalosporins. Thousands of adults have been treated by cefixime for lower respiratory tract, ear-nose-throat and urinary tract infections, showing that cefixime is a safe and effective antimicrobial agent. The major clinical indications for cefixime in adults are bronchial and pulmonary infections, acute otitis or sinusitis, acute pyelonephritis with no underlying uropathy, and complicated or uncomplicated lower urinary tract infections excluding prostatitis. In all cases, the dosage is 200 mg b.i.d. PMID- 2530529 TI - [In vitro effect of cefixime against Haemophilus influenzae]. AB - Cefixime activity has been determined against Haemophilus influenzae strains producing or not beta-lactamase, or resistant to ampicillin by non-enzymatic mechanism. All strains are inhibited by a concentration of 1 mg/l of cefixime independently of beta-lactamase secretion. Ampicillin-resistant non beta lactamase producing strains are inhibited by concentrations of 0.12 - 1 mg/l. MIC50 and MIC90 were, respectively, 0.06 and 0.12 mg/l for ampicillin-susceptible strains and 0.12 and 0.12 mg/l for ampicillin-resistant strains. The activity of cefixime against Haemophilus influenzae was superior to that of other orally administered antibiotics tested in this study: amoxicillin, amoxicillin clavulanic acid, cefaclor and cefuroxime. PMID- 2530530 TI - [In vitro comparative effect of cefixime and 7 other beta-lactamines against Streptococcus pneumoniae]. AB - The comparative in vitro activities of cefixime, penicillin G, amoxicillin, cefotaxime, cefaclor, cefadroxyl, cefotiam and cefuroxime against 83 recent clinical isolates of S. pneumoniae were determined. In addition, the susceptibilities of 17 relatively or fully penicillin-resistant strains of S. pneumoniae were evaluated. Cefixime was more active than the first generation cephalosporins cefaclor and cefadroxyl against penicillin-susceptible strains. The MIC50 and MIC90 obtained by the agar dilution method were 0.25 and 0.5 mg/l respectively. The MICs obtained by a microdilution technique were one dilution lower. Cefixime exhibited little or no activity against relatively or fully penicillin-resistant strains. PMID- 2530531 TI - [In vitro effect of cefixime against 200 strains of Branhamella catarrhalis. Comparison with cefotaxime]. AB - The in vitro activity of cefixime was tested against 200 strains of Branhamella catarrhalis. Of these strains, 146 had been collected during 1987 from 15 different "Centres hospitaliers generaux", through a multicenter collaborative investigation organized by the "College de Bacteriologie-Virologie-Hygiene des hopitaux generaux". The remaining 54 strains were isolated at the "Centre hospitalier", of Aix-en-Provence. The strains originated from: bronchopulmonary collections: 80.2 per cent, sinusitis: 5.6 per cent, conjunctivitis: 4.6 per cent, otitis: 3.5 per cent, blood cultures: 0.5 per cent, miscellaneous: 5.6 per cent. Seventy-three per cent of the strains produced beta-lactamases. MIC determination was performed according to the agar dilution procedure on non enriched Mueller-Hinton agar (30 hours incubation at 37 degrees C without CO2). The inoculum was 10(5) CFU per spot. Non beta-lactamase producing strains displayed the following MIC 50 and MIC 90 values (mg/l): amoxicillin: 0.03 - 0.125; cefotaxime: 0.06 - 1; cefixime: 0.06 - 0.5. Beta-lactamase producing strains were generally more resistant: amoxicillin: 32 - 128; cefotaxime: 1 - 2, and cefixime: 0.5 - 1. PMID- 2530532 TI - [Antibacterial effect of cefixime in the presence of the type of beta-lactamases produced by Enterobacteriaceae]. AB - The susceptibility of isolates or Enterobacteriaceae to orally absorbed beta lactams (amoxicillin, cephalexin, cefaclor, cefuroxime, and cefixime), was maximum for the iminomethoxy-aminothiazolyl-cephalosporin but variable according to bacterial species. For E. coli, P. mirabilis, Salmonella, Shigella, K. pneumoniae, K. oxytoca (group 1) MIC50 were congruent to 0.06 mg/l, and MIC90 congruent to 0.12 mg/l. Finally for C. freundii, E. aerogenes, E. cloacae, S. marcescens, M. morganii, MIC50 were higher, congruent to 1, and MIC90 16 mg/l. The slight increase reported between MIC50 ans MIC90 of cefixime against isolates belonging to group 1 was related to stability towards beta-lactamases (TEM, SHV) unlike groups 2 and 3, where the drug was less stable to chromosomal type 1 enzyme. The discovery of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESB) (e.g. SHV-2, CTX 1 or TEM-3), mainly in K. pneumoniae, led to further investigations of the behavior of cefixime. The in vitro activity of cefixime (CFM), amoxicillin (AMX) combined or not with clavulanate (AMC, 2 mg/l), ticarcillin (TIC), cephalothin (CF), cefotaxime (CTX), ceftazidime (CAZ) and aztreonam (AZM) was determined by the agar dilution method (inoculum 10(5) cfu/ml) against clinical isolates: E. coli (26), K. pneumoniae (42), K. oxytoca (9), Salmonella (3) producing several types of beta-lactamases, chromosomal (cephalosoporinase, broad-spectrum) or plasmid-encoded (TEM-1, TEM-2, CTX-1, SHV-2, SHV-3, SHV-4). The geometric mean MIC values of AMX, AMC, TIC, CF, CTX, CAZ, AZM and CFM were as follows: greater than 480, 21.6, greater than 285, 45.6, 0.53, 1.12, 0.51, and 0.77 respectively. An MIC increase of oxyimino beta-lactams (CTX, CAZ, AZM, CFM) was observed against over-producing isolates of K. oxytoca and isolates producing ESB (CTX-1, SHV-2, SHV-3, SHV-4). The comparative behavior of cefixime was determined after transfer by conjugation to E. coli K-12. Sixty-one derivatives were constructed producing TEM-1, TEM-2, SHV-1, CTX-1, TEM-4, CAZ-2, SHV-2, SHV-3, SHV-4, the MICs of cefixime were stable against derivatives producing a penicillinase (TEM-1, TEM 2, SHV-1), but not against those producing an ESB. The MIC increases of undigestible beta-lactams ranged from 1 to 135 fold (CFM), 40 to 200 fold (CTX) 12 to 232 fold (CAZ), and 4 to 240 fold (AZM). PMID- 2530533 TI - [Critical concentrations of cefixime and disc potency]. PMID- 2530534 TI - [In vitro comparative bactericidal effect of cefotaxime and cefixime in a kinetic model]. AB - The bactericidal activity of cefotaxime against Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Serratia marcescens, was compared with that of cefixime in an in vitro model simulating the human pharmacokinetics of these antibiotics. Kinetic parameters in this model were T1/2 = 1.3 h and Cmax = 45 mg/l for cefotaxime; T1/2 = 3.5 h and Cmax = 5 or 3.5 mg/l for cefixime. These parameters mimicked those obtained after a 1 g intravenous infusion of cefotaxime and an oral uptake of 0.4 or 0.2 g of cefixime, respectively. Both antibiotics demonstrated a strong bactericidal activity. Against Escherichia coli, the bactericidal effect of cefotaxime was slightly more rapid and more prolonged than that of cefixime: -5 log10 CFU/ml over 4 h vs -3 log10 CFU/ml over 8 h respectively. Against Klebsiella pneumoniae and Serratia marcescens, both drugs exhibited similar bactericidal activity despite different dosages and routes of administration: -2 to -3 log10 CFU/ml over 4 h. PMID- 2530535 TI - [Effect of sub-inhibitory concentrations of cefixime on the morphology, hemagglutination and adhesiveness of urinary strains of Escherichia coli]. AB - The treatment of urinary tract infections is one of the indications of cefixime, a new oral cephem. The aim of the present work was to study the in vitro effect of cefixime sub- and infra-MICs on the morphology, haemagglutination and adhesiveness to epithelial cells of three uropathogenic Escherichia coli strains pretreated with sub-MICs (1/2 to 1/64 the MIC) of cefixime during growth phase (37 degrees C for 18 h). This treatment led to morphological alterations of the bacteria with filament formation. The E. coli strains showed different haemagglutination profiles (MS; MS-MR; MR). In the presence of cefixime sub-MICs (1/2 to 1/32 the MIC), MR E. coli showed a markedly altered capacity for haemagglutination (using guinea pig, human P1 and p erythrocytes). Adhesiveness was studied with human buccal cells for MS adhesins and human urothelial cells for MR adhesins. A significant decrease of adherence (70-90 per cent) was observed after pretreatment of E. coli strains with cefixime (up to 1/32 the MIC). Compared with other antibiotics active against E. coli, such as nalidixic acid, norfloxacin and ampicillin, the effect of 1/8 the MIC of cefixime on adhesiveness, was more pronounced. These results demonstrate that sub-MICs of cefixime induce a marked reduction in adhesiveness of E. coli. This property might potentiate the effectiveness of cefixime in the treatment of urinary tract infections due to E. coli. PMID- 2530537 TI - [Pharmacokinetics of cefixime in healthy volunteers after a single oral administration of 200 mg]. AB - The antibacterial activity of cefixime is identical with that of parenteral third generation cephalosporins. Its kinetics were studied in 24 healthy male volunteers who received one single 200 mg tablet. Cmax was 3.25 mg/l and Tmax was 4 h. After 12 hours, serum concentrations were still as high as 0.70 mg/l. Half life was 3.3 h and urinary excretion was not predominant. Thus, cefixime was characterized by its relatively long serum half-life as compared with other cephalosporins. Despite some degree of individual variations, serum and urine concentrations of the antibiotic remained for 12 hours above the MIC of susceptible pathogens. PMID- 2530538 TI - [Effect of hepatic failure upon the pharmacokinetics of cefixime]. AB - Modifications of cefixime kinetics due to severe impairment of liver function were determined in 9 cirrhotic patients. Cefixime was administered as a single dose of 200 mg and levels were measured by HPLC. Maximum serum concentrations and area-under-the-curves of serum concentrations were not modified. The time for maximum serum concentration was delayed and the cefixime half-life in serum was prolonged, as a reflect of increased volume of distribution resulting from ascites and hypoalbuminemia. Renal clearance increased in these patients, possibly because of reduced extra-renal clearance. No metabolite was detected in serum or urine. Modifications of cefixime kinetics resulting from impaired hepatic function were modest and did not require specific dosage adjustment. PMID- 2530536 TI - [Pharmacokinetic properties of cefixime]. AB - After a 200 mg intravenous or oral dose, the absolute bioavailability of cefixime, evaluated by comparison of areas under the serum concentration-time curve values, is 50 per cent. Because food has no effect on peak serum concentrations or on the extent of drug absorption, cefixime can be taken with or without meals. Protein binding is 70 per cent. Cefixime is cleared, mainly unchanged, partly by the liver (60 per cent) and partly by the kidneys (40 per cent). The elimination half-life varies between 3 and 4 hours. Plasma concentrations increase linearly but not proportionally to doses. No significant accumulation was observed after repeated administration in young and elderly subjects. The pharmacokinetic profile of cefixime is significantly altered in patients with marked renal impairment (creatinine clearance less than 20 ml/min), and in such cases dosage should be reduced from 400 to 200 mg/day. Haemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis do not remove significant amounts of the drug from the body. In cirrhotic patients, no dosage adjustment is needed, although the elimination half-life is increased twofold (congruent to 6.5 hours). The extravascular and tissue diffusion of cefixime is satisfactory in those areas where the organisms need to be eradicated. PMID- 2530539 TI - [Pulmonary diffusion of cefixime in man]. AB - We measured the concentrations of cefixime in the human lung in vivo in order to evaluate indirectly the effectiveness of this antibiotic in the treatment of pulmonary infections. Twenty-three patients undergoing lung surgery entered the study and received cefixime either 200 mg 12-hourly (4 times) or 400 mg every 24 hours (twice). Blood samples and tissue specimens were collected simultaneously during surgery 4 or 8 hours after the last dose. Cefixime concentrations were measured by HPLC. The penetration of cefixime in both normal and neoplastic lung tissue was significant. Four or 8 hours after a 200 or 400 mg oral dose, lung concentrations were higher than the MIC90 values for sensitive strains and therefore consistent with effective therapeutic activity. The pharmacokinetics of cefixime in blood and in lung tissue suggest that pulmonary infections could be treated with a 400 mg dose once a day. PMID- 2530540 TI - [Tonsillar diffusion of cefixime in children]. AB - Cefixime was assayed by a microbiological method in the tonsils of 21 children (mean age 59 months). Tonsillectomy was performed 5 hours after a third dose of 4 mg/kg administered 12-hourly. Plasma cefixime levels were evaluated 10 hours after the second dose with a mean value of 0.84 mg/l (range: 0 to 1.35) and again after a third dose during amygdalectomy with a mean value of 1.24 mg/l (range: 0.1 to 3.9). Cefixime concentrations were 0.74 micrograms/g in the right tonsils and 0.53 micrograms/g in the left tonsils. The antibiotics could not be detected in both tonsils in 6 children and in one of the two tonsils in 11 children. The tissue penetration of cefixime in tonsils therefore was about 1 micrograms/g in those cases where cefixime was detectable. As with other beta-lactam antibiotics, this penetration is not regular, being dependent on the degree of tonsillar fibrosis inhibitin their diffusion. PMID- 2530541 TI - [Pharmacokinetic interaction of cefixime and 2 antacids. Preliminary results]. AB - A crossover study was undertaken in 8 healthy volunteers to evaluate the pharmacokinetics of cefixime administered orally alone or combined with an antacid. Each subject received successively: cefixime alone, Maalox followed 30 min later by cefixime, then Maalox followed 4 hours later by cefixime and finally Alka-Seltzer followed 30 min later by cefixime. Sixteen blood samples were drawn from 0 to 24 hours after oral administration, and plasma cefixime parameters were determined, using a HPLC assay. Four parameters were used to detect a possible interaction: Cmax, Tmax, AUCO-N and AUCO-alpha. No significant difference was observed between the four parameters. Thus, poor absorption of cefixime when combined with an antacid can be ruled out. PMID- 2530542 TI - [Controlled multicentric study comparing cefixime and amoxicillin in the treatment of lower respiratory tract infections in adults]. AB - This multicentre, randomized, double-blind study evaluated the effectiveness and safety of cefixime versus amoxicillin. Patients were admitted if they had lower respiratory tract infection with a bacterial pathogen susceptible to both study drugs. Diagnoses included acute respiratory tract infections with no underlying pulmonary pathology (cefixime 21, amoxicillin 27), acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive lung disease (cefixime 32, amoxicillin 42), superinfection of viral bronchitis or lung cancer, and pleuritis (cefixime 10, amoxicillin 6). Patients were treated for at least 10 days with either cefixime 200 mg b.d. or amoxicillin 1 g b.d. A clinical success rate of 80.7 per cent (50/62) in the cefixime group and 82.2 per cent (60/73) in the amoxicillin group was achieved in infections due to susceptible organisms. In acute infections with no underlying pathology, the clinical success rate was 90.5 per cent with cefixime and 81.5 per cent with amoxicillin. Twenty-three cefixime patients and 20 amoxicillin patients were seen 2 to 6 weeks after treatment: there were 2 and 1 clinical recurrences, respectively. All 3 patients were suffering from chronic obstructive lung disease. The bacteriological eradication rate at the end of treatment in assessable patients was 94.7 per cent (17/18) with cefixime and 80 per cent (16/20) with amoxicillin. Six and 11 new organisms appeared, responsible for 2 superinfections under cefixime and 7 under amoxicillin. Treatment was well tolerated by 96.4 per cent of cefixime patients and 90 per cent of amoxicillin patients. This study confirms the value of cefixime as a new oral antibiotic in the treatment of lower respiratory tract infections in adults. PMID- 2530543 TI - [Efficacy and tolerability of cefixime in lower respiratory tract infections in adults. French multicentric study]. AB - Cefixime is a new oral cephalosporin with the same activity as that of third generation cephalosporins, particularly against organisms responsible for lower respiratory tract infections. The effectiveness and safety of cefixime were evaluated in the multicentre study reported here. Cure was obtained in 54 of 61 assessable patients suffering from bronchopneumonia (40/44), acute bronchitis (3/5) or acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis (11/12). The causative agents were eradicated in 35 of 41 assessable cases. No clinical side-effect was observed. Thrombocytosis without clinical manifestations was reported in 14 cases. Administered in doses of 200 mg twice daily, cefixime proved effective and safe in the treatment of lower respiratory tract infections. PMID- 2530544 TI - [Efficacy and tolerability of cefixime in the treatment of otorhinolaryngeal infections in adults]. AB - Cefixime was used in the treatment of 59 patients, 44 of whom had sinusitis, 9 otitis media and 6 various ENT infections. The clinical and bacteriological effectiveness of the drug could be evaluated in 44 patients and its safety in all 59 patients. The most common responsible pathogens were Haemophilus influenzae, streptococci including Streptococcus pneumoniae and various Enterobacteriaceae. In more than 50 per cent of the cases, the clinical picture was one of acute exacerbation of a chronic infection. The patients received cefixime 200 mg b.d. for a mean duration of 12 days. Clinical cure was achieved in 80 per cent. Fourteen out of 44 patients underwent surgery. Minor abdominal discomfort was reported by 15 per cent of the patients, and one discontinued therapy because of side-effects. Cefixime was effective and well tolerated. It is suitable for the treatment of ENT infections in adults, such as those treated in this study. PMID- 2530545 TI - [Efficacy and tolerability of cefixime in urinary tract infections in adults. A French multicentric study]. AB - Cefixime is a new oral antibiotic with in vitro activity similar to that of parenteral third generation cephalosporins. It exhibits good in vitro activity against most pathogens causing urinary tract infections. The effectiveness and safety of cefixime were evaluated in a multicentre study involving 68 patients (45 with acute pyelonephritis, 15 with lower urinary tract infections and 8 with infections of undetermined location); 55 of these patients were assessable in terms of effectiveness. Clinical cure was achieved in 50 cases. The causative agent was always eradicated. During the 3 to 8 weeks' follow-up period, relapses occurred in 5 patients with pyelonephritis. Adverse effects were reported by 2 patients. Biological manifestations (thrombocytosis, elevated ASAT and ALAT) were noted in 5 cases. Cefixime is a safe and effective antibiotic for the treatment of urinary tract infections. PMID- 2530547 TI - [Comparative study of 2 dosage regimens of cefixime in the treatment of otorhinolaryngeal or bronchial infections]. AB - A double-blind comparative study of cefixime (400 mg/day), given either as a single daily dose, or in two divided doses, was carried out in collaboration with 54 general practitioners. This study was mainly directed towards tolerance assessment. 431 patients with upper and lower respiratory tract infection were included. In terms of tolerance, 89 per cent of patients showed no side-effect and the tolerance was deemed satisfactory in 90.3 per cent of the cases by the investigators, without any statistically significant difference between both groups. Roughly, the most frequent side-effects were gastrointestinal reactions, such as diarrhea or stool changes (4.0 per cent), gastralgia (1.9 per cent), nausea and/or vomiting (1.6 per cent). In terms of effectiveness, after an average of 8.8 +/- 0.1 days of treatment, 94.4 per cent of assessable patients were improved or cured. Once again, there was no statistical difference between both groups. Cefixime effectiveness and safety are comparable with both modes of administration. PMID- 2530546 TI - [Comparative study of intravenous ceftriaxone followed by oral cefixime versus ceftriaxone alone in the treatment of severe upper urinary tract infections]. AB - Cefixime is a new orally active cephalosporin. Its MICs and beta-lactamase stability are similar to those of the parenteral third generation cephalosporins. This trial was conducted to determine the effectiveness and safety of ceftriaxone as compared with a treatment where oral cefixime was given after a 4-day treatment with ceftriaxone in severe upper urinary tract infections usually requiring parenteral treatment during two weeks. In an open, controlled trial, 95 patients met the inclusion criteria; 48 received IV ceftriaxone 2 g daily during 4 days, followed by IM or IV ceftriaxone 1 g daily for 11 days; 47 patients were treated by IV ceftriaxone 2 g.o.d. during 4 days and then by oral cefixime 200 mg b.i.d. for 11 days. Clinical cure at the end of treatment was achieved in 44 patients in the cefixime group and 47 patients of the ceftriaxone group. Ten to 84 days after the end of treatment, the overall clinical cure and bacteriologic eradication rates for these patients were 74.3 per cent (29/39) for cefixime and 81 per cent (34/42) for ceftriaxone. Treatment failure occurred in two patients in the cefixime arm, one in a patient with renal atrophy and vascular stenosis and the other in an 86-year old diabetic and bed-ridden woman with an infection following the use of a urinary catheter. There were eight relapses or re infections (about 20 per cent) in each group. Seven minor adverse events were seen in six patients treated with ceftriaxone: pain upon IM injection (3 cases), diarrhea (2 cases) associated in one case with a generalized rash for which treatment was discontinued, and nausea (one case). Laboratory changes in both groups were not noteworthy and without clinical relevance. These results suggest that it seems possible to propose new parenteral cephalosporins with conversion to the oral route on the 5th day using the same class of drugs in the treatment of severe upper urinary tract infections, excluding certain urological or vascular underlying conditions and provided that duration of treatment is adapted to the type of clinical setting. These data define more accurately the use of cefixime with respect to currently available drugs. PMID- 2530548 TI - [Efficacy and tolerability of cefixime in international and French studies]. AB - Cefixime, the first oral third generation cephalosporin, was administered to 2,832 patients in the USA, UK, FRG and France. 478/1063 patients were treated for urinary tract infections (upper or lower UTI) with 200 mg cefixime bid; clinical cure was obtained in 92 and 96 per cent of upper and lower UTI respectively, and bacteriological cure in 97.5 and 89 per cent of the cases; among 142 patients with a 1 month follow-up, no relapse or reinfection was observed in 78 per cent of cases. Of 521 patients treated for lower respiratory tract infection, 355 received 200 mg cefixime bid and 166 received a single daily dose of 400 mg. Clinical cure was obtained in 88 per cent and 93 per cent patients with pneumonia or bronchitis respectively, with bacteriological cure in 93.2 and 93.8 per cent. Among ENT infections, the most interesting study was in the treatment of sinusitis and otitis. Good clinical results were shown in nearly 95 per cent of cases, with bacteriological cure in more than 90 per cent. The safety studies demonstrated a global 6.6 per cent incidence of undesirable effect. These manifestations were mild and reversible, consisting of abdominal discomfort and minor diarrhea in most cases. The overall effectiveness of cefixime appears to be similar to that of established compounds as far as susceptible pathogens are concerned. However, in clinical trials, cefixime seemed to be effective on isolated bacteria unresponsive to conventional antibiotics. PMID- 2530549 TI - [Routes of insulin administration]. PMID- 2530550 TI - [Contributions of magnetic resonance imaging in urology]. PMID- 2530551 TI - [Diabetic microangiopathy. Role of capillaroscopy]. AB - In order to evaluate the significance of ungual and conjunctival microvascular abnormalities observed in diabetics prior to retinopathy, nailfold and conjunctival capillaroscopy was performed in 20 controls and 40 insulin-dependent diabetics of the same age. The diabetics were divided into 4 groups according to their state of retinopathy: absent, incipient, non-proliferative and proliferative. No difference was found between controls and diabetics and between groups of diabetics in the frequency of conjunctiva microaneurysms and specific nailfold microangiopathy, nor even in that of the so-called characteristic "fish shoal" image. The percentage of abnormalities detected was concordant with the results of previous studies in diabetics (12.5 per cent of non-specific organic microangiopathy), but it was 2 to 4 times higher than the frequency usually found in non-diabetic controls. This discrepancy could be due to the method used, since in contrast with earlier studies the operator did not know whether the subject was diabetic or not and was unaware of the patient's retina state. In the absence of other blind and prospective studies, capillaroscopic examination for diabetic microangiopathy should be reserved strictly to clinical research. PMID- 2530552 TI - [A simple and rapid method to test the permeability of condoms to viruses]. AB - phi x 174 and T7 coliphages can be used to find out if condoms are virus-proof. Protection against hepatitis B virus or papillomavirus contamination is not assured when T7, a 65 nm broad virus, leaks through the condom. The simple test can be used to establish a quality control norm for condoms. PMID- 2530553 TI - [Detection of alcoholic patients using the systematic CAGE autoquestionnaire. In out patients]. AB - A French adaptation of the CAGE questionnaire was used as a self-administered test in 200 outpatients (heart clinic 100, gastroenterology clinic 100) from a French University Hospital. People with two positive items or more were regarded as potential "alcoholics", i.e. indulging in excessive alcohol consumption without being alcohol-dependent. With a 9.5 per cent prevalence of "alcoholics", 95.5 per cent of out-patients were correctly classified. PMID- 2530555 TI - [Silastic cerclage of the anus in rectal prolapse]. PMID- 2530554 TI - [Hemorrhagic necrosis of the adrenal glands. Value of x-ray computed tomography for early diagnosis]. PMID- 2530556 TI - [Lymphomatoid granulomatosis with a neurologic manifestation]. PMID- 2530557 TI - [Value of vitamin B 12 assay in presumed degenerative dementia]. PMID- 2530558 TI - [Acute renal failure caused by rhabdomyolysis in pneumococcal pneumopathy]. PMID- 2530559 TI - [Risk factors for becoming overweight. Survey among female hospital staff]. PMID- 2530560 TI - [The ultrasensitive thyrotropin assay and thyroliberin test in patients with major depression]. PMID- 2530561 TI - [Panhypopituitarism revealed by cholestasis in an infant]. PMID- 2530562 TI - [Fatal anguilluliasis in an alcoholic patient]. PMID- 2530563 TI - [Not value to the systematic study of different tumor markers for disclosing bone metastasis]. PMID- 2530564 TI - [Liver transplantation in children]. PMID- 2530565 TI - [Value of plasma fructosamine in non-diabetic and diabetic chronic renal failure]. AB - Plasma fructosamine concentrations were measured in non-diabetic and diabetic patients with chronic renal failure divided into two three groups: patients without dialysis, under haemodialysis and under continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis. In non-diabetic patients plasma fructosamine values were consistently higher than in a control population (2.26 +/- 0.26 mmol/l), being 2.38 +/- 0.35 mmol/l in patients without dialysis, 2.57 +/- 0.33 mmol/l in patients under peritoneal dialysis and 2.67 +/- 0.31 mmol/l in patients under haemodialysis. In diabetic patients, plasma fructosamine values were increased, being equal to, or higher than 3 mmol/l; these values were almost identical with those obtained in populations of diabetics without renal pathology. Considering that Hb Alc values are difficult to interpret in chronic renal failure owing to anaemia and to the analytical problems raised by haemoglobin carbamylation, the fructosamine test may well be a reliable marker for the monitoring of diabetes in patients with chronically impaired renal function. PMID- 2530567 TI - [Birth delayed by 23 days after premature delivery in a triplet pregnancy obtained by in vitro fertilization]. AB - At 26 weeks' gestation, the patient gave birth to 2 premature infants who did not survive. Following this delivery, under general anaesthesia and infusions of tocolytic drugs and antibiotics the uterus was washed with Ringer's lactate solution and cerclage of the cervix was performed after ligation and section of the two umbilical cord flush with the cervix. The "second delivery" was delayed by 3 weeks; the child weighed 1,150 grams at birth and survived. Six similar cases (including ours) have been published, and in each of them one living child was obtained. The above technique can therefore be recommended, in case of premature delivery before 28 weeks of gestation, for women with multiple pluriamniotic pregnancy. PMID- 2530566 TI - [Bone marrow autograft treated with mafosfamide in the acceleration phase in chronic myeloid leukemia. Inversion of the clinical development]. AB - A 21-year old male patient with Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukaemia received an autologous bone marrow transplant in consolidation of the 2nd chronic phase. The bone marrow had been treated with mafosfamide in adequate doses. The post-transplantation course of the disease was marked by an inversion: the duration of the 2nd chronic phase was more than 4 times longer than that of the first one, suggesting some degree of effectiveness of autologous bone marrow transplantation performed in the 2nd chronic phase and/for of the in vitro treatment of the bone marrow with mafosfamide. Cytogenetic monitoring was pursued throughout the course of leukaemia: regression of the Philadelphia chromosome was only partial and transient, and 3 clones appeared, each of them involving chromosome 1, for which mafosfamide was most probably responsible. PMID- 2530568 TI - [Evaluation of mechanic characteristics of the respiratory system in artificial ventilation]. AB - Measuring respiratory mechanics is reputed to be difficult and therefore is seldom done in intensive care units although simple techniques are available. Air flow interruption after constant rate inflation enables the total respiratory system resistance (Rrs) to be divided into airway resistance (Raw) and additional resistance (delta R), the latter being associated with the viscosity and elasticity of the respiratory system and with the inhomogeneity of the lung. Thus, in patients with chronic obstructive lung disease this end-inspiratory air flow interruption provides physiopathological data (increase of Rrs to the detriment of Raw and delta R, due to major disparities of time constants in the lung) and therapeutic data (optimum ventilation mode reducing the patient's breathing work during assisted ventilation). Air flow interruption at the end of expiration measures the intrinsic positive end-expiratory pressure which indicates hyperinflation with damaging effects on cardiac performance and respiratory muscle function and constitutes a major factor of weaning failure. Combining the end-inspiratory and end-expiratory techniques enables a realistic and complete pressure-volume curve to be drawn easily. It is therefore possible during mechanical ventilation to evaluate the characteristics of respiratory mechanics very precisely and very simply. This should improve both our understanding of some diseases and our management of ventilated patients. PMID- 2530569 TI - [A case of recurrent acute purulent thyroiditis]. PMID- 2530570 TI - [Convulsive syncope and dysautonomia in a patient with AIDS]. PMID- 2530571 TI - [A rare cause of arthritis, Behcet's disease in a HIV-positive subject, 69 years of age]. PMID- 2530572 TI - [Characteristics of localization and occurrence of tuberculous infection in rural areas]. AB - A long-term observation for 12 years revealed a tendency to stabilization of localization of tuberculous infection foci in rural areas and their main concentration in large villages. In such villages 82.7 per cent of new cases of tuberculosis and 80.3 per cent of new cases of tuberculous infection were recorded. The tension of the epidemiological situation with respect to tuberculosis in rural areas directly depended on the number of tubercle bacilli carriers living in such areas. It was maintained by three factors: migration of the bacilli carriers, the number of new cases of bacillary tuberculosis of the lungs and the results of their therapy. Among persons having family contacts with tubercle bacilli carriers, the incidence of pulmonary tuberculosis was 12.4 and 40.6 times higher than that resulting from professional and village contacts, respectively. A differential approach to organization of anti-epidemiological measures, early detection and prophylaxis of tuberculosis in rural areas is proposed. PMID- 2530573 TI - [Socio-hygienic aspects of the contingents of adult patients with pulmonary tuberculosis]. AB - The pattern of tuberculous patients was analyzed by groups of dispensary registration and types of the disease. A higher proportion of the patients with advanced tuberculosis from rural areas was revealed. Composition of the patients was studied by the social groups, educational level, marital status and housing conditions. It was shown that 38.7 per cent of the patients had concomitant diseases. Among them 17.2 per cent suffered from chronic alcoholism. On the whole, the number of heavy alcohol drinkers amounted to 37.8 per cent. Interrelation between the above social and hygienic factors and severity of tuberculosis was demonstrated. The patients were followed up for 3 years and marked improvement was observed in 69.4 per cent of them. The disease outcomes depended on the sex, age, social factors, bad habits and concomitant diseases, Economic losses from 1 tuberculous patient were calculated. A model of changes in the patient contingents and economic losses from the patients in regard to the treatment was constructed. PMID- 2530574 TI - [Paecilomyces infection]. AB - The clinical and experimental studies showed that etiology and pathogenesis of allergic alveolitis in the inhabitants of the Samarkand Region stem from mycosepsis caused by Paecilomyces variotii Bainier, that is immunocomplex affection of the small and middle vessels and cell-mediated granulomatous inflammation of the tissues. PMID- 2530575 TI - [Pulmonary echinococcosis and effectiveness of its surgical treatment]. AB - The problems of epidemiology and diagnosis of echinococcosis in the Turkmen SSR and organization of its treatment are urgent because of its prevalence. The number of diagnostic mistakes remains high. The modern diagnostic means provide early detection of echinococcosis. Higher quality of the diagnosis is possible with involving prophylaxis. The surgical method of echinococcosis treatment used mainly in surgical units of tuberculosis hospitals of the republic proved to be the most efficient. The efficacy of the surgical treatment according to our data amounted to 100 per cent. In some periods it amounted to 97 per cent. PMID- 2530576 TI - Developmental patterns for pancreatic opioids in the rat. AB - Developmental patterns for rat pancreatic opioid peptides and islet hormones were studied from gestational day 20 through adulthood. Fetal tissue was obtained as well as pancreas at birth (day 0), and postnatal days 3, 7, 14, and 21, and 7 weeks. The hormones measured included insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin. The opioids measured were beta-endorphin, Met- and Leu-enkephalins, and the high molecular weight enkephalin precursors. Pancreata were pooled as necessary and extracted (acid alcohol, or hot acetic acid), and opioids were further purified on reversed-phase C-18 (Sep-pak) cartridges. In all instances measurements were made by radioimmunoassays. Precursor peptides were first digested (with trypsin and carboxypeptidase B) prior to immunoassay. All opioids and hormones except the precursors for enkephalins showed a well-defined surge in pancreatic concentration during the first postnatal week. In contrast, the precursors had the highest concentration in the fetus, and by the seventh day of life had decreased by greater than 50%. This progressive decrease may represent maturation of the enkephalin convertase and trypsin-like enzymes in the islets. The opioid and hormonal surges that we have described are similar to the surge in islet concentration of thyroid-releasing hormone (TRH) previously described in neonatal rat islets. It is suggested that these postnatal alterations in opioid and hormone concentration relate to a specific function in the development of the endocrine pancreas. PMID- 2530577 TI - ATP-sensitive K+ channels in a plasma membrane H+-ATPase mutant of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. AB - A mutant in the plasma membrane H+-ATPase gene of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae with a reduced H+-ATPase activity, when examined at the single-channel level with the patch-clamp technique, was found to exhibit K+ channels activated by intracellular application of ATP. In the parent strain, the same channel, identified by its conductance and selectivity, is not activated by ATP. This activity in the mutant is blocked by the ATPase inhibitor N,N' dicyclohexylcarbodiimide. ADP and the ATP analog adenosine 5'-[gamma [35S]thio]triphosphate do not activate the channel. These findings suggest a tight physical coupling between the plasma membrane ATPase and the K+ channel. PMID- 2530578 TI - Efficient rescue of integrated shuttle vectors from transgenic mice: a model for studying mutations in vivo. AB - To study gene mutations in different organs and tissues of an experimental animal, we produced transgenic mice harboring bacteriophage lambda shuttle vectors integrated in the genome in a head-to-tail arrangement. As a target for mutagenesis, the selectable bacterial lacZ gene was cloned in the vector. The integrated vectors were rescued from total genomic DNA with high efficiency by in vitro packaging and propagation of the phages in a LacZ- strain of Escherichia coli C. The background mutation frequencies in brain and liver DNA appeared to be low, as was indicated by the absence of colorless plaques among 138,816 and 168,160 phage isolated from brain and liver DNA, respectively. Treatment of adult female transgenic mice with N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea resulted in a dose-dependent increase of the frequency of mutated vectors isolated from brain DNA, up to 7.4 x 10(-5) at 250 mg of the alkylating agent per kilogram of body weight. At this dose, in liver DNA of the same mice, mutation frequencies were approximately 3 x 10(-5). DNA sequence analysis of four mutant vectors isolated from brain DNA indicated predominantly G.C----A.T transitions. These results demonstrate the value of this transgenic mouse model in studying gene mutations in vivo. In addition to its use in fundamental research, the system could be used as a sensitive, organ-specific, short-term mutagenicity assay. PMID- 2530579 TI - Two high-affinity interleukin 1 receptors represent separate gene products. AB - Interleukin 1 (IL-1) is a polypeptide hormone that mediates a broad range of biological activities and interacts with surface receptors on numerous cell types. Equilibrium binding studies have identified a class of IL-1 receptors on T cells, fibroblasts, and epithelial cells that have 2- to 5-fold higher affinity than the receptors on bone marrow cells, pre-B cells, and macrophage cell lines. Affinity cross-linking with human 125I-labeled IL-1 alpha (125I-IL-1 alpha) labels an approximately 100-kDa protein on T cells and fibroblasts and an approximately 80-kDa protein on pre-B cells and macrophage cell lines. Monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies specific for the IL-1 receptor on T cells and fibroblasts block human 125I-IL-1 alpha binding to T cells, fibroblasts, and epithelial cells but cannot block IL-1 binding to bone marrow cells, pre-B cells, and macrophages. These antibodies immunoprecipitate the IL-1 receptor-human 125I IL-1 alpha complex from T cells and fibroblasts but not from pre-B cells and macrophage cell lines. An S1 nuclease protection assay demonstrated that T cells and fibroblasts contain identical IL-1 receptor mRNA but that pre-B cells and macrophages do not contain this receptor mRNA. Taken together, the data demonstrate that mouse T cells, fibroblasts, and epithelial cells express an identical IL-1 receptor, whereas the IL-1 receptor on pre-B cells, macrophages, and bone marrow cells represents a different gene product. PMID- 2530580 TI - Evidence for different interleukin 1 receptors in murine B- and T-cell lines. AB - Previous studies have shown that binding of interleukin 1 (IL-1) to its receptor and intracellular processing of the IL-1/IL-1 receptor complex appear to be different in B- and T-lymphocyte cell lines. In this study we used a B-lymphoid cell line, 70Z/3, and T-lymphoid cell line, EL-4 6.1 C10, to explore further the differences that exist between IL-1 receptors on cells of B and T lineage. We show that a monoclonal antibody against the IL-1 receptor on EL-4 cells does not bind to the IL-1 receptor on 70Z/3 cells. This finding suggests that there are structural differences in the extracellular domains of the IL-1 receptors on the two cell lines. Furthermore, affinity crosslinking showed that the molecular mass of the IL-1 receptor on EL-4 is 87 kDa, whereas that of 70Z/3 is significantly lower (66 kDa). Activation of phospholipid/Ca2+-dependent protein kinase, protein kinase C, by phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) greatly reduced the number of IL-1 binding sites on 70Z/3. But, in sharp contrast, PMA had no effect on surface IL-1 receptor expression on EL-4 cells despite having an equally potent effect in activating protein kinase C. The different effects of protein kinase C suggest that the cytoplasmic domains of the IL-1 receptors in 70Z/3 and EL-4 may also be different. Lastly, a probe containing the entire coding region of the murine T cell IL-1 receptor hybridized under high stringency conditions with mRNA from EL 4 cells but not with mRNA from 70Z/3 cells. Taken together, the observations made in this study suggest that major structural differences exist between the IL-1 receptors on B and T lymphocytes. PMID- 2530581 TI - Isolation of cDNAs encoding a human protein that binds selectively to DNA modified by the anticancer drug cis-diamminedichloroplatinum(II) AB - DNA modified by the antitumor drug cis-diamminedichloroplatinum(II) (cis-DDP or cisplatin) was used to identify a factor in mammalian cells that binds to cis-DDP damaged DNA and hence may play a role in repair. This factor selectively recognizes double-stranded DNA fragments modified by cis-DDP or [Pt(en)Cl2] (en, ethylenediamine). Little or no binding occurs to unmodified double-stranded DNA or to DNA modified with the clinically ineffective compounds trans-DDP and [Pt(dien)Cl]Cl (dien, diethylenetriamine). Low levels of binding to single stranded DNA modified by cis-DDP are observed. The apparent molecular mass of the factor in a variety of mammalian cells is approximately 100 kDa, as determined by modified Western blotting. Two recombinant phage have been isolated from a human B-cell lambda gt11 library by using a cis-DDP-modified DNA restriction fragment as a probe. The two clones have insert sizes of 1.88 and 1.44 kilobases and are aligned at their 5' ends. The polypeptides encoded by the recombinant phage exhibit DNA binding properties similar to those of the cellular factor identified in crude extracts prepared from mammalian cells. Northern analysis with one of the clones revealed an mRNA of 2.8 kilobases that is conserved in humans and rodents. The methods used here should be applicable in studies of other damage specific DNA binding proteins. PMID- 2530582 TI - Cloning and expression of the cDNA for the murine interferon gamma receptor. AB - A murine interferon gamma (IFN-gamma) receptor cDNA was isolated by screening a murine T-cell hybridoma library prepared in lambda gt10 with probes prepared from a human IFN-gamma receptor cDNA. The 2.1-kilobase (kb) cDNA encoded a serine-rich polypeptide of 477 amino acids that was 52% identical to the human protein. Southern and Northern (RNA) blot analyses indicated the presence of a single receptor gene and a single predominant 2.3-kb receptor transcript. Human embryonic kidney fibroblasts, stably transfected with the murine IFN-gamma receptor cDNA, expressed murine IFN-gamma receptors as detected by flow cytometry with either ligand or a receptor-specific monoclonal antibody. Nontransfected cells bound neither ligand nor antibody. Radioligand-binding analysis demonstrated that the transfectants expressed 530,000 murine IFN-gamma receptors per cell and bound murine IFN-gamma with a Ka of 1 x 10(9) M-1. However, despite high-level expression of murine IFN-gamma receptors, the transfected human cells responded only to human and not to murine IFN-gamma as detected by enhancement of major histocompatibility class I antigen expression and induction of antiviral activity. These results thus document the isolation and expression of a full length murine IFN-gamma receptor cDNA and suggest that additional species specific components may be necessary to form a biologically active IFN-gamma receptor. PMID- 2530584 TI - Localization of the mRNA for the dopamine D2 receptor in the rat brain by in situ hybridization histochemistry. AB - 32P-labeled oligonucleotides derived from the coding region of rat dopamine D2 receptor cDNA were used as probes to localize cells in the rat brain that contain the mRNA coding for this receptor by using in situ hybridization histochemistry. The highest level of hybridization was found in the intermediate lobe of the pituitary gland. High mRNA content was observed in the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland, the nuclei caudate-putamen and accumbens, and the olfactory tubercle. Lower levels were seen in the substantia nigra pars compacta and the ventral tegmental area, as well as in the lateral mammillary body. In these areas the distribution was comparable to that of the dopamine D2 receptor binding sites as visualized by autoradiography using [3H]SDZ 205-502 as a ligand. However, in some areas such as the olfactory bulb, neocortex, hippocampus, superior colliculus, and cerebellum, D2 receptors have been visualized but no significant hybridization signal could be detected. The mRNA coding for these receptors in these areas could be contained in cells outside those brain regions, be different from the one recognized by our probes, or be present at levels below the detection limits of our procedure. The possibility of visualizing and quantifying the mRNA coding for dopamine D2 receptor at the microscopic level will yield more information about the in vivo regulation of the synthesis of these receptors and their alteration following selective lesions or drug treatments. PMID- 2530583 TI - T-cell receptor-CD4 physical association in a murine T-cell hybridoma: induction by antigen receptor ligation. AB - By employing flow cytometric analysis and fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET), we examined the physical relationship between the T-cell receptor-CD3 complex (Ti-CD3) and the CD4 molecule on helper T cells. Through the use of an L3T4-negative murine T-cell hybridoma infectant expressing the human CD4 gene and having antigen specificity for HLA-DR, we show that binding of the Ti-CD3 complex with an anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody induces its redistribution proximal to cell surface CD4. FRET efficiency was 9.4% on cells labeled with rhodaminated anti-CD3 and fluoresceinated anti-CD4. FRET was found to be temperature dependent, since similarly treated cells held at 4 degrees C displayed a FRET efficiency of less than 1%. Energy transfer was evident within 3 min after warming cells to 37 degrees C. Energy transfer was not detected between Ti-CD3 and the abundantly expressed leukocyte common antigen (CD45). Of greater significance was our observation that hybridomas infected with a truncated CD4 gene lacking the cytoplasmic domain failed to transfer energy despite the fact that CD4 was expressed on the cell surface at levels equivalent to or greater than the wild type. These studies suggest that after crosslinking of the Ti-CD3 on CD4+ T cells, a physical association occurs between the antigen receptor complex and CD4 and that the association is dependent upon the presence of the cytoplasmic domain of CD4. PMID- 2530585 TI - Vacuolar ATPases, like F1,F0-ATPases, show a strong dependence of the reaction velocity on the binding of more than one ATP per enzyme. AB - Recent studies with vacuolar ATPases have shown that multiple copies catalytic subunits are present and that these have definite sequence homology with catalytic subunits of the F1,F0-ATPases. Experiments are reported that assess whether the vacuolar ATPases may have the unusual catalytic cooperativity with sequential catalytic site participation as in the binding change mechanism for the F1,F0-ATPases. The extent of reversal of bound ATP hydrolysis to bound ADP and Pi as medium ATP concentration was lowered was determined by 18O-exchange measurements for yeast and neurospora vacuolar ATPases. The results show a pronounced increase in the extent of water oxygen incorporation into the Pi formed as ATP concentration is decreased to the micromolar range. The F1,F0 ATPase from neurospora mitochondria showed an even more pronounced modulation, similar to that of other F1-type ATPases. The vacuolar ATPases thus appear to have a catalytic mechanism quite analogous to that of the F1,F0-ATPases. PMID- 2530586 TI - Wild-type p53 can inhibit oncogene-mediated focus formation. AB - Mutant forms of the p53 cellular tumor antigen elicit neoplastic transformation in vitro. Recent evidence indicated that loss of normal p53 expression is a frequent event in certain types of tumors, raising the possibility that such loss provides transformed cells with a selective growth advantage. Thus, it was conceivable that the mutants might contribute to transformation by abrogating normal p53 function. We therefore studied the effect of plasmids encoding wild type (wt) p53 on the ability of primary rat embryo fibroblasts to be transformed by a combination of mutant p53 and ras. It was found that wt p53 plasmids indeed caused a marked reduction in the number of transformed foci. Furthermore, wt p53 plasmids also suppressed the induction of transformed foci by combinations of bona fide oncogenes, such as myc plus ras or adenovirus E1A plus ras. On the other hand, plasmids carrying mutations in the p53 coding region totally failed to inhibit oncogene-mediated focus induction and often even slightly stimulated it. Hence, such mutations completely abolished the activity of wt p53 that is responsible for the "suppressor" effect. The latter fact is of special interest, since similar mutations in p53 are often observed in human and rodent tumors. The inhibitory effect of p53 was most pronounced when early-passage cells were used as targets, whereas established cell lines were less sensitive. These data support the notions that wt p53 expression may be restrictive to neoplastic progression and that p53 inactivation may play a crucial role in tumorigenesis. PMID- 2530589 TI - Relationship between beta-endorphin/beta-lipotropin, hyperglycemia, and hyperinsulinemia in obese male Zucker rats. AB - The relationship between beta-endorphin(beta-EP)/beta-lipotropin(beta-LP) and insulin secretion in the basal state and after glucose challenge was studied in obese male Zucker rats and their lean littermates. Baseline plasma beta-EP/beta LP concentrations were similar in the two groups of animals. Baseline plasma insulin and serum glucose concentrations were significantly higher in the obese animals. Following glucose challenge, the increase in plasma beta-EP/beta-LP concentrations was significantly lower in the obese animals than in their lean littermates. Opioid blockade with naloxone failed to alter the baseline hyperinsulinemia and hyperglycemia seen in the obese animals. The data suggest that the hyperinsulinemia in the obese Zucker rat is not due to endogenous hyperendorphinemia as shown in humans with polycystic ovary syndrome. The obese rats showed dissociation between glucose-stimulated plasma levels of beta-EP/beta LP and insulin levels which may contribute to the hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance in these animals. PMID- 2530588 TI - Expression of CD45 alters phosphorylation of the lck-encoded tyrosine protein kinase in murine lymphoma T-cell lines. AB - CD45 is a family of high molecular weight leukocyte cell surface glycoproteins. Recently, two related subregions of the cytoplasmic domain of CD45 have been shown to have 30-40% amino acid identity with a human placental protein phosphotyrosine phosphatase, and CD45 isolated from human spleen was found to exhibit intrinsic protein phosphotyrosine phosphatase (EC 3.1.3.48) activity. In the present studies, we demonstrate that each of the known isoforms of murine CD45 has an equivalent basal level of protein phosphotyrosine phosphatase activity and establish that this enzymatic activity is associated with the cytoplasmic domain of the glycoprotein. Studies with three independent sets of well-characterized parental CD45+, mutant CD45-, and revertant CD45+ lymphoma cell lines indicate that loss of CD45 increases the phosphorylation of the src related leukocyte-specific tyrosine protein kinase p56lck on tyrosine-505, a putative negative regulatory site. This suggests that CD45 may play a role in leukocyte growth regulation by altering the kinase activity of p56lck. PMID- 2530590 TI - Stimulation of corticosterone secretion by the selective 5-HT1A receptor agonist 8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)tetralin (8-OH-DPAT) in the rat. AB - The selective 5-HT1A receptor agonist 8-OH-DPAT increased serum corticosterone concentration in rats in a dose-dependent manner. The synthetic corticoid dexamethasone lowered the serum corticosterone level and abolished its rise induced by 8-OH-DPAT. The corticosterone response to 8-OH-DPAT was also antagonized by spiperone, (+/-)- and (-)-pindolol and (+/-)-propranolol, all of which have been shown to have a high affinity for 5-HT1A receptors, though in most cases no complete blockade was found. A partial antagonism of the response was also observed after flumazenil, a benzodiazepine antagonist. On the other hand, the 5-HT1B receptor antagonist 21009, the 5-HT2 receptor antagonists ketanserin and pirenperone, the 5-HT3 receptor antagonist ICS 205-930, the alpha 2-adrenoceptor antagonists yohimbine and idazoxan, the beta-adrenoceptor blocker with no affinity to 5-HT1 receptors, atenolol, the dopaminergic antagonist pimozide, the histamine receptor blocker chloropyramine and the opiate receptor antagonist naloxone did not affect the hormonal response to 8-OH-DPAT. The 8-OH DPAT-induced corticosterone secretion was not affected either in rats pretreated with p-chlorophenylalanine (PCPA, an inhibitor of tryptophan hydroxylase) or p chloroamphetamine (PCA, a drug-inducing lesion of serotonergic nerve terminals). It is concluded that 8-OH-DPAT-induced increase in serum corticosterone concentration results from its action at a site different than the adrenal cortex and is mediated by postsynaptic 5-HT1A receptors, whereas other subtypes (5-HT1B, 5-HT2, 5-HT3) of 5-HT receptors do not participate in this response.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530587 TI - Cloning the interleukin 1 receptor from human T cells. AB - cDNA clones of the interleukin 1 (IL-1) receptor expressed in a human T-cell clone have been isolated by using a murine IL-1 receptor cDNA as a probe. The human and mouse receptors show a high degree of sequence conservation. Both are integral membrane proteins possessing a single membrane-spanning segment. Similar to the mouse receptor, the human IL-1 receptor contains a large cytoplasmic region and an extracellular, IL-1 binding portion composed of three immunoglobulin-like domains. When transfected into COS cells, the human IL-1 receptor cDNA clone leads to expression of two different affinity classes of receptors, with Ka values indistinguishable from those determined for IL-1 receptors in the original T-cell clone. An IL-1 receptor expressed in human dermal fibroblasts has also been cloned and sequenced and found to be identical to the IL-1 receptor expressed in T cells. PMID- 2530591 TI - Serotonergic modulation of the acoustic startle response in rats during preweaning development. AB - The involvement of serotonin (5-HT) in modulating the acoustic startle response (ASR) is well established in adult rats, but 5-HT involvement during the preweaning period, when 5-HT neurons undergo extensive development, has not previously been described. Three 5-HT receptor subtypes are reported to modulate the ASR in adult rats: 5-HT1A and 5-HT2 receptor agonists facilitate the ASR, whereas 5-HT1B agonists decrease the response. In the present study, the effects of 5-HT agonists and generalized 5-HT depletion on the ASR were studied in preweanling animals, using independent groups of Long-Evans rats tested on postnatal day (PND) 13, 17 and 21. 8-Hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino) tetralin (8OHDPAT, 62-1000 micrograms/kg), a 5-HT1A receptor agonist, and 5-methoxy-N,N dimethyl tryptamine (MeODMT, 2-4 mg/kg), a nonselective 5-HT agonist, had no effect on PND 13 and then increased the ASR on PND 17 and 21. The 5-HT2 receptor antagonists cyproheptadine (5 mg/kg) and ketanserin (5 mg/kg) blocked the effect of MeODMT at both ages, providing some evidence that MeODMT increased the ASR through 5-HT2 receptors. 1-(m-Chlorophenyl) piperazine (mCPP, 1-5 mg/kg), a 5 HT1B agonist, had no effect on ASR amplitude on PND 13 or 17 and then produced a dose-related decrease in the response on PND 21. Generalized depletion of 5-HT by 80-90% in whole-brain and spinal cord, using p-chlorophenylalanine (PCPA, 300 mg/kg 24 hr prior to testing), did not alter ASR amplitude at any age.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530593 TI - Influences of psychological stress produced by intraspecies emotional communication on nicorandil plasma levels in rats. AB - Influences of emotional stress on nicorandil pharmacokinetics were studied in rats that received physical and psychological stimuli (referred to as 'sender' and 'responder' rats, respectively) using the communication box paradigm. Concerning pharmacokinetic, there was no marked difference in the Tmax, Ka, Kel, T1/2 and Vd between the sender rats and the nonstressed control rats when both of which were orally administered 10 mg/kg of nicorandil. But the Cmax and AUC were lower and clearance (Cl) was higher in the sender rats. In the responder rats, there was no difference in Tmax, Ka, Kel, and T1/2. But the Cmax and AUC were lower and the Vd was higher than those of the control rats. On the other hand, when nicorandil was administered in a dose of 5 mg/kg subcutaneously, Tmax and T1/2 in the sender rats did not differ from those of the controls, but the Cmax, Ka and AUC were lower, and the Kel, Vd and Cl were higher. Between the responder and control rats, significant differences were found in all parameters except for Vd, i.e., Cmax, Ka, T1/2 and AUC were lower than those of control rats, and the Tmax, Kel and Cl were higher than those of control rats. This indicates that pharmacokinetics of nicorandil when administered orally and subcutaneously were influenced not only by physical stress but also by psychological stress. PMID- 2530594 TI - Diagnosis and classification by physical therapists: a special communication. AB - Through history taking and physical examination, physical therapists diagnose and classify different types of information for use in their clinical reasoning and treatment. What differentiates diagnosis by the physical therapist from diagnosis by the physician is not the process itself but the phenomena being observed and classified. The World Health Organization's International Classification of Impairments, Disabilities, and Handicaps is one clinical taxonomy available to help physical therapists diagnose and classify clinical phenomena important to their scope of practice. Developing and applying classification systems to order its observations is a critical stage in the physical therapy profession's efforts to develop its scientific base. PMID- 2530592 TI - Effect of cyclooxygenase blockade on the beneficial actions of nicorandil in the stunned myocardium of dogs. AB - The effects of nicorandil, indomethacin and nicorandil + indomethacin on subendocardial segment shortening (%SS), regional myocardial blood flow and coronary venous thromboxane (TxA2) and prostacyclin (PGI2) levels were compared to those of a saline-treated group in anesthetized dogs subjected to a 15-min coronary artery occlusion and 3 h of reperfusion. During reperfusion, nicorandil markedly improved %SS in the ischemic-reperfused region compared to saline- and indomethacin-treated dogs. Indomethacin did not antagonize the beneficial effects of nicorandil. These results suggest that the beneficial actions of nicorandil in this model are not the result of an increase in PGI2 or decrease in TxA2 synthesis. PMID- 2530595 TI - IsoStation B-200. PMID- 2530596 TI - [The heart--an endocrine organ]. PMID- 2530597 TI - Serotonin as a facilitatory neurotransmitter in the anticonvulsant activity of methaqualone. AB - The neuromodulatory role of serotonin in the anticonvulsant activity of methaqualone was investigated. A dose-dependent increase in the ability of methaqualone to provide protection against pentylenetetrazol (90 mg/kg SC) induced convulsions in mice was observed. The ED50 value for the anticonvulsant activity of methaqualone was calculated and found to be 60 mg/kg, IP. Pretreatment of mice with 5-hydroxytryptophan (100 mg/kg, IP, 2 hr) and p chlorophenylalanine (300 mg/kg, IP, 2 hr), causing an increase in brain serotonin levels, resulted in a 60% and 80% increase, respectively, in the anticonvulsant activity of methaqualone. Similar pretreatment with p-chlorophenylalanine (300 mg/kg, IP, 48 hr), causing a lowering of brain serotonin, and methysergide (10 mg/kg, IP, 0.5 hr), causing blockade of brain serotonin receptors, resulted in a 40% and 20% decrease, respectively, in the ability of methaqualone to provide protection against pentylenetetrazol-induced convulsions. These results suggest a facilitatory role of serotonin in the anticonvulsant activity of methaqualone. PMID- 2530598 TI - Beta-endorphin in the brainstem and the cerebellum of the human infant: regional levels' profile assessed with immunoaffinity chromatography and solid phase radioimmunoassay. AB - The regional levels' profile of human beta-endorphin (beta h-EP) was studied in the brainstem and the cerebellum of 16 infant victims of "Sudden Infant Death Syndrome" and other death causes. An immunoaffinity chromatography procedure based on a monoclonal antibody directed specifically against the N-terminus of beta-EP was used to extract this peptide from the tissue samples. Beta-EP was then assessed quantitatively by means of a very sensitive solid phase radioimmunoassay (using a polyclonal antibody specific for the C-terminus of beta EP) developed especially for the study presented here. PMID- 2530599 TI - Cerebral beta-endorphin levels in a woman with Prader-Labhart-Willi syndrome. AB - By means of a specific two-site immunoradiometric assay, we explored the beta endorphin levels in various brain regions of a patient affected by Prader-Labhart Willi Syndrome. The rank of the beta-endorphin levels of five cerebral zones (hypothalamus, substantia grisea centralis, pons dorsalis, medulla oblongata dorsalis medialis, thalamus medialis) of the patient was homologous to that of subjects without the syndrome, except for the medulla oblongata dorsalis medialis. In patient with the Prader-Labhart-Willi Syndrome this region had a higher ranking level than in subjects without it. However, a functional meaning cannot be attributed to such difference because the patient of this study did not exhibit neurological disturbances relating to elevated beta-endorphin levels in the medullary region investigated. PMID- 2530600 TI - Beta-endorphin-like immunoreactivity levels in the hypothalamus, the periaqueductal grey and the pituitary of the DBA mouse: determination by ELISA and relationship to nociception. AB - The present paper describes the development and application of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the assessment of beta-endorphin-like immunoreactivity (beta-ELIR) level in the hypothalamus, the periaqueductal grey (PAG) and the pituitary of DBA/2 mice that were subjected to mild social stress (aggressive confrontation). After confrontation these subjects showed elevated tail-flick latencies (TFL) when compared to controls, a finding that indicates stress-induced analgesia (SIA). A positive correlation was found between individual TFLs and beta-ELIR levels in the PAG but not in the hypothalamus and the pituitary. These results suggest that individual baseline PAG beta-ELIR levels may be taken as a predictor of high degrees of stress-induced analgesia. PMID- 2530601 TI - Neuromodulatory role of serotonin in the anticonvulsant activity of 2 phenylbenzoate of 3-diethylamino-1-propanol.HCl (JAW-669). AB - The role of serotonin in the mediation of the anticonvulsant activity of JAW-669 was investigated against maximal electric shock (MES)-induced seizures in mice. A dose-dependent protection against seizures was provided by JAW-669 (4, 6 and 8 mg/kg, IP) and the calculated ED50 value was 6.01 mg/kg, IP. Pretreatment of mice with 5-hydroxytryptophan (50 mg/kg, IP) 2 hr before the administration of JAW-669 (6.01 mg/kg, IP) was found to cause a 40% increase in the ability of JAW-669 to provide protection against MES-induced seizures. Similar pretreatment with tryptophan (100 mg/kg, IP, 1 hr) caused a 30% decrease in the anticonvulsant activity of JAW-669. Prior administration of p-chlorophenylalanine (300 mg/kg, IP, 48 hr) and methysergide (10 mg/kg, IP; 0.5 hr) before administration of JAW 699 caused a 66% and 74% decrease, respectively, in the ability of JAW-669 to provide protection against MES-induced seizures. These results suggest a facilitatory role of serotonin in the anticonvulsant activity of JAW-669. PMID- 2530602 TI - Cellular regulation of iron assimilation. AB - Cells of plants, most microorganisms, and animals require well-defined amounts of iron for survival, replication, and differentiation. The metal is an important component of such processes as synthesis of DNA, RNA, and chlorophyll; electron transport; oxygen metabolism; and nitrogen fixation. Because of the insolubility of iron in aerobic environments at neutral and alkaline pH values, cells have had to devise specific strategies to assimilate the metal. These include (1) development of systems for reducing ferric ions to the more soluble ferrous ions at the cell surface, (2) employment of small carrier molecules (termed siderophores) that have high affinity for ferric ions and receptor proteins for the ferrated molecules, and (3) use of transferrin and other proteins that can transport ferric ions. Excessive amounts of iron are toxic, however, and intracellular storage capacity is limited and efflux mechanisms generally are lacking. Thus, cells have had to develop methods of preventing over-accumulation of the metal. These include use of (1) oxygen to convert ferrous to ferric ions, (2) small molecules that can bind ferrous ions, termed siderophraxes, and (3) proteins that, when combined with ferrous ions, repress the expression of iron transport genes. Often, one organism can prevent growth of neighbors by restricting their access to iron. In other cases, cells assist each other by sharing iron acquisition systems or by restricting influx of excess iron. Homeostatic control of other essential trace metals also is required for optimal cell function. Nevertheless, since iron thus far has received most attention, it serves as the model of mineral metabolism. Moreover, many of the observations made on control of iron metabolism suggest possible applications in prevention and management of plant and animal infections as well as of neoplastic diseases, arthropathy, and cardiomyopathy. This review will focus on (1) problems at the cellular level of iron acquisition, storage, and exclusion; and (2) the strategies devised by cells of plants, microorganisms, and animals to solve these problems. PMID- 2530603 TI - Double-guide-wire access through a single 6-F vascular sheath. AB - Three techniques are described that employ double-guide-wire access through a single vascular sheath in the common femoral artery. One technique provides arterial side branch protection during balloon angioplasty of stenotic vascular branch points. Another maintains guide wire access within a dilated renal artery while postangioplasty aortography is performed. A third technique achieves superficial femoral artery access during antegrade femoral artery puncture. PMID- 2530604 TI - Value of laser-assisted angioplasty in the community hospital. PMID- 2530605 TI - The diagnostic accuracy of the exercise electrocardiogram: a meta-analysis of 22 years of research. PMID- 2530607 TI - [Echocardiographic study following corrective surgery for transposition of the great arteries using a baffle]. AB - Sixteen patients undergoing corrective surgery of transposition of the great arteries following Arcas' technique were studied by echocardiography. Mean age was 8.7 years, ranging from 2 to 25 years. The echocardiographic studies were performed between 6 months and 10 years after surgery (X: 5.6 years). Paradoxical movement of the interventricular septum, right ventricle dilatation, diastolic fluttering of the mitral valve and tricuspid incompetence are commonly recorded. Tricuspid insufficiency does not necessarily mean right ventricular disfunction in these patients. Due to the particular baffle shape, bidimensional echocardiographic recognition of superior cava vein obstruction is easy. In addition, the waves of cava veins showed a characteristic pattern with predominant diastolic wave, which is an argument against its obstruction. In conclusion, echo and Doppler studies are reliable means for an adequate follow-up of these patients. PMID- 2530606 TI - AIDS: cardiac findings from 115 autopsies. PMID- 2530608 TI - [Is the diagnosis of acute appendicitis more efficient with emergency laparoscopy than with echography?]. PMID- 2530609 TI - Comparison of a combination of fenoterol with ipratropium bromide (Duovent) and salbutamol in young adults with nocturnal asthma. AB - In a randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, crossover study consisting of two 1 month periods with a 2-week 'run-in' we compared the effects of a combination of fenoterol with ipratropium bromide (Duovent, Boehringer Ingelheim) and salbutamol administered by standard metered dose inhalers in conventional dosage in young adults with nocturnal asthma. Seventeen patients were studied, all were aged between 19 and 35 years and showed 'morning dip' associated with nocturnal symptoms of cough, wheeze and breathlessness. They recorded morning and evening peak flows and symptoms of nocturnal asthma on diary cards. Over the 10 weeks of the study there was no difference between Duovent and salbutamol in any of the parameters measured. PMID- 2530611 TI - Oculomotor abnormalities in diseases of the basal ganglia. AB - Disorders of eye movements have been described in diseases of the basal ganglia for over a century. Recent neurophysiological and clinical work has greatly clarified the oculomotor role of these structures: their major involvement appears to be in the generation of "voluntary" saccades, and in the suppression of "reflex" saccades. The observed abnormalities of saccadic eye movements in Huntington's (HD) and Parkinson's (PD) diseases conform very well to predictions based on a combination of known disease pathology and recent neurophysiological work. This is not quite the case for other types of eye movement, such as smooth pursuit, largely because the exact role of the basal ganglia in their generation has not been defined neurophysiologically. Several diseases other than HD and PD both involve the basal ganglia and have effects on eye movements; such diseases include progressive supranuclear palsy and Wilson's disease. Unfortunately, the pathological processes in these conditions are too widespread to allow comment on how well oculomotor abnormalities fit in with predictions. PMID- 2530612 TI - Low back pain as the only presenting symptom in Streptococcus sanguis endocarditis. PMID- 2530610 TI - [Isolated traumatic lesions of the abdominal wall musculature]. AB - Six cases of isolated traumatic lesions of the abdominal wall muscles (2 ruptures of the right abdominal muscle and 4 of the anterolateral muscles) are reported. The presence of a "fixed" hematoma or even of a true subcutaneous eventration, the case history (for finding out the injury mechanism or unusual muscular effort), the X-ray examination of the abdomen and especially the ultrasonography can establish the diagnosis. The treatment of this lesion is usually conservative, surgery (performed in 3 cases) being indicated only in those ruptures with large parietal defects or hematomas or in case of diagnostic doubts. PMID- 2530613 TI - [Evolution of the parietal incision in cesarean sections]. AB - This concerns a multicenter study including 51 centers of the North, Picardy and Champagne areas, 35 public institutions and 16 private institutions. This study was carried out on 7,216 records of Caesarean sections, collected between 1978 and 1983. The objective of this study was to specify maternal and fetal morbidity in Caesarean sections. In this study, the authors attempted to establish a correlation between this morbidity and the parietal incision, as well as compare the responsibility of each of the two incisions that were performed: midline infraumbilical and Pfannenstiel's incision. From a neonatal standpoint, they have demonstrated that the type of parietal incision has no bearing on the condition of the child at birth, in spite of a slightly longer extraction time in the Pfannenstiel incision. From a maternal standpoint, they found a similar number of wall abscesses and wound dehiscence. Abdominal wall hematomas are slightly more frequent with the Pfannenstiel incision and this difference is significant. The reservations formulated concerning transverse incisions and especially the Pfannenstiel incision do not appear to be justified. PMID- 2530614 TI - Ankylosing spondylarthritis associated with acne conglobata. AB - We report a case of a rare association between acne conglobata and ankylosing spondylarthritis B27 negative which occurred in a young man. The pathogenetic relationship of the association is not certain, although some researches suggest that the onset of ankylosing spondylarthritis can result from cutaneous disease. Despite the long evolution of ankylosing spondylitis, it is not severe. Thus, the presence of B35 CREG antigens confirm that locus B antigens different from B27 could be associated with a more favourable prognosis of the disease. PMID- 2530615 TI - [Is necrotizing vasculitis a disease caused by deposits of circulating immune complexes?]. AB - From findings in serum sickness, it has often been considered that circulating immune complexes play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of experimental necrotizing vasculitis and glomerulonephritis. In reality, most cases of experimental vasculitis might well be due to the formation of immune complexes in situ. Moreover, the role of cell-mediated immunity, still poorly studied, might be important. In humans, the respective roles of circulating immune complexes, immune complexes formed in situ and cell-mediated immunity remain imperfectly known. PMID- 2530616 TI - The heart in hypertension. Proceedings of the joint scientific meeting of the Danish Societies of Cardiology and Hypertension. Copenhagen, November 4th, 1988. PMID- 2530617 TI - Can dilated cardiomyopathy be an expression of hypertensive heart disease? PMID- 2530619 TI - Ventricular arrhythmias and left ventricular hypertrophy secondary to hypertension: a brief review. PMID- 2530618 TI - The possible impact of arterial compliance on cardiac hypertrophy in arterial hypertension. PMID- 2530620 TI - Assessment of left ventricular hypertrophy by electrocardiography, chest roentgenography and echocardiography, a review. PMID- 2530621 TI - Blood pressure, physical activity and left ventricular hypertrophy in the prehypertensive state. Assessment by echocardiography. PMID- 2530623 TI - Therapy of hypertensive hypertrophy. PMID- 2530624 TI - Coronary flow reserve in arterial hypertension. PMID- 2530622 TI - Acute blood pressure reduction in the presence of hypertensive cardiac hypertrophy: any interference with coronary circulation? PMID- 2530625 TI - Forced contact between antigen-presenting cells and T cells: consequences for T cell activation. AB - It is still not known how T cells are activated, which T-cell surface structures transmit activation signals, and if antigen-presenting cells possess activation structures for T cells. We have studied whether the T-cell receptor (TcR) must be engaged for T-cell activation to occur. By using membrane-incorporated monoclonal antibodies, we artificially forced T cells to bind to antigen-presenting cells in a mixed lymphocyte reaction system and thereby bypassed the need for TcR engagement and also made it possible for any surface molecule on antigen presenting cells to deliver a stimulatory signal to the T cells. Theoretically, T cells would become polyclonally activated by this procedure. However, we found that they did not, even though they were intimately bound to the antigen presenting cell, thus demonstrating that the TcR must participate in antigen/MHC binding in order for the T cells to become activated. This study does not exclude the possibility that antigen-presenting cells possess structures that can activate T cells. PMID- 2530627 TI - [Local developments in coronary angioplasty]. PMID- 2530626 TI - Enzyme histochemical studies on microarterial grafts in rats. AB - In order to evaluate the duration and localization of the metabolic changes elicited by the procedure of transplantation, the sequential changes in enzymatic activity of carotid artery grafts in rats were evaluated by histochemical demonstration of the activity of two oxidoreductases, lactate dehydrogenase (LD) and succinate dehydrogenase (SD), and two hydrolytic enzymes, adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) and alkaline phosphatase (AFOS). The most intense staining for ATPase, LD and SD was seen in the media, both in the grafts and in the adjacent carotid artery. The activity of AFOS was concentrated to the inner parts of the adventitia. The medial layer of the microarterial graft showed no obvious changes in enzyme activity during the observation period of four weeks. At the anastomoses, LD and SD showed decreased activity from day one onwards. No intimal thickening or other clear structural changes were seen in the grafts. PMID- 2530628 TI - How T cells see antigen. PMID- 2530629 TI - Expression and characterization of a functional myosin head fragment in Dictyostelium discoideum. AB - The isolated head fragment of myosin is a motor protein that is able to use energy liberated from the hydrolysis of adenosine triphosphate to cause sliding movement of actin filaments. Expression of a myosin fragment nearly equivalent to the amino-terminal globular head domain, generally referred to as subfragment 1, has been achieved by transforming the eukaryotic organism Dictyostelium discoideum with a plasmid that carries a 2.6-kilobase fragment of the cloned Dictyostelium myosin heavy chain gene under the control of the Dictyostelium actin-15 promoter. The recombinant fragment of the myosin heavy chain was purified 2400-fold from one of the resulting cell lines and was found to be functional by the following criteria: the myosin head fragment copurified with the essential and regulatory myosin light chains, decorated actin filaments, and displayed actin-activated adenosine triphosphatase activity. In addition, motility assays in vitro showed that the recombinant myosin fragment is capable of supporting sliding movement of actin filaments. PMID- 2530630 TI - The neuron-specific protein PGP 9.5 is a ubiquitin carboxyl-terminal hydrolase. AB - A complementary DNA (cDNA) for ubiquitin carboxyl-terminal hydrolase isozyme L3 was cloned from human B cells. The cDNA encodes a protein of 230 amino acids with a molecular mass of 26.182 daltons. The human protein is very similar to the bovine homolog, with only three amino acids differing in over 100 residues compared. The amino acid sequence deduced from the cDNA was 54% identical to that of the neuron-specific protein PGP 9.5. Purification of bovine PGP 9.5 confirmed that it is also a ubiquitin carboxyl-terminal hydrolase. These results suggest that a family of such related proteins exists and that their expression is tissue specific. PMID- 2530631 TI - The mysteries of lipoprotein(a). AB - Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is a macromolecular complex found in human plasma that combines structural elements from the lipoprotein and blood clotting systems and that is associated with premature coronary heart disease and stroke. It is assembled from low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and a large hydrophilic glycoprotein called apolipoprotein(a) [apo(a)], which is homologous to the protease zymogen plasminogen. Plasma Lp(a) concentrations vary 1000-fold between individuals and represent a continuous quantitative genetic trait with a skewed distribution in Caucasian populations. Variation in the hypervariable apo(a) gene on chromosome 6q2.6-q2.7 and interaction of apo(a) alleles with defective LDL-receptor genes explain a large fraction of the variability of plasma Lp(a) concentrations. Though of high theoretical and practical interest, many aspects of the metabolism, function, evolution, and regulation of plasma concentrations of Lp(a) are presently unknown, controversial, or mysterious. PMID- 2530632 TI - Cognate DNA binding specificity retained after leucine zipper exchange between GCN4 and C/EBP. AB - Both C/EBP and GCN4 are sequence-specific DNA binding proteins that control gene expression. Recent evidence implicates C/EBP as a transcriptional regulator of genes involved in lipid and carbohydrate metabolism. The C/EBP protein binds avidly to the dyad symmetric sequence 5'-ATTGCGCAAT-3'; GCN4 regulates the transcription of genes that control amino acid biosynthesis in yeast, and binds avidly to the dyad symmetric sequence 5'-ATGA(G/C)TCAT-3'. Both C/EBP and GCN4 bind DNA via the same structural motif. This motif has been predicted to be bipartite, consisting of a dimerization interface termed the "leucine zipper" and a DNA contact surface termed the "basic region." Specificity of DNA binding has been predicted to be imparted by the basic region. As a test of this hypothesis, recombinant proteins were created wherein the basic regions and leucine zippers of GCN4 and C/EBP were reciprocally exchanged. In both of the recombinant polypeptides, DNA binding specificity is shown to track with the basic region. PMID- 2530633 TI - Comparative antithrombotic and hemorrhagic effects of dermatan sulfate, heparan sulfate, and heparin. PMID- 2530634 TI - Morbidity from subarachnoid spinal anaesthesia--a prospective study on the post operative morbidity from subarachnoid spinal anaesthesia. AB - A clinical survey was conducted on 274 patients who had surgery under subarachnoid spinal anaesthesia. The anaesthetic was performed with either a 23 gauge or 25 gauge needle. All patients were interviewed on the second and sixth post-operative days. Data on morbidity (especially post-dural puncture headache and backache) was collated and analysed with respect to needle gauge. Backache was the most common complaint (20.5%). Using the finer needle did not reduce this aspect of morbidity. Post-dural puncture headache on the other hand was significantly reduced by the use of the finer 25 gauge needle (from 12.3% to 4.9%). PMID- 2530635 TI - Case report 564: Giant intraosseous schwannoma. PMID- 2530636 TI - Guinea worm: an in-depth study of what happens to mothers, families and communities. AB - This paper reports on the impact of maternal morbidity due to guinea worm, dracunculiasis, on the care and health of children under 24 months old, and the way in which the mothers and the family coped with the often extended periods of disability. This qualitative study is based on observation and in-depth interviewing, supplemented by focus group discussions. Of 42 mothers with guinea worm in two hyperendemic areas of Oyo and Kwara States, 28 were either bedridden or only able to hobble short distances with the help of a stick; the average period of incapacity was almost 9 weeks. Of the four maternal roles identified (child care, self care, domestic tasks, income generation), the women gave priority to child care; 34 of the 42 mothers needed help in child care. Coping networks operated principally within the extended family, but also included women in other households, and women from beyond the community. Thus the impact of a mother's illness extended beyond her children and family to the wider community. This qualitative study thus reveals the multifaceted impact of a disease on individuals and on the community. The study stresses the need for, and availability of, effective methods for controlling guinea worm by utilizing community cooperation to provide protected water sources and other preventive measures against the disease. PMID- 2530637 TI - [Allocation of additional funds for development of public health]. AB - The Gorky N. A. Semashko Regional Clinical Hospital has the long-term experience in drawing additional means into patients' treatment at the expense of enterprises and collective farms on the strength of the agreement on cooperation. In order to expand cost accounting in public health it is necessary to determine cost indices in the work of curative and preventive facilities. Total cost of the provision of various types of medical services and that per patient have been calculated in the Gorky Regional Hospital. Besides current expenditure they involve the main funds, estimated by annual indices. Complete cost of 306 diagnostic and treatment procedures have been determined. Proceeding from the data obtained complete actual costs of diagnostic and treatment procedures per patient on 105 nosologic forms have been identified along with the expenditure on these nosologic forms that is necessary for modern diagnostic and treatment care. PMID- 2530638 TI - [Economic loss due to morbidity with temporary disability in industrial plants in Kazakhstan]. AB - The morbidity resulting in temporary disability (TD) of workers at phosphorus and lead factories of Kazakhstan was studied. Using the coefficient of multiple regression equation, a statistical evaluation of the dependence between changes in morbidity and the trends in the development of factor indications in time was undertaken; based on the study results prognostic estimations were made of temporary disability and economic damage it caused at all phosphorus and lead industrial enterprises of the Republic until the year 2000. It was found that all diseases resulting in TD of workers at both kinds of industrial enterprises could be divided into three groups: those tended to decrease, those tended to increase and those tended to remain stable. The cycles and levels of morbidity resulting in TD not only in those branches of industry as a whole but also in each particular branch were established according to age, occupation, industrial experience of work and the type of workshop. The economic damage to the phosphorus and lead industries of Kazakhstan caused by the morbidity resulting in TD was estimated during the time of the survey along with the projections until the year 2000. PMID- 2530639 TI - [Socio-hygienic and medical factors of disability associated with lung diseases]. AB - Socio-hygienic factors affecting disability caused by chronic nonspecific lung diseases (CNLD) were established among the indicators of relative risk in employable population older than 40 years in the city of Izhevsk. Thus, prognostic tables for the determination of patients at risk of disability were calculated and active measures aimed at protection of their work ability timely developed. Forecasting by the Bayes test of the elimination of some causes enabled one to assess the role of separate factors and their groups in affecting CNLD-induced disability. The results of the above socio-hygienic analysis could be used in planning and carrying out preventive, curative and social activities. PMID- 2530640 TI - [Experience in the organization of a regional consultative specialized polyclinic]. PMID- 2530641 TI - Repair of incisional hernia. AB - Because wound infection is a major cause of incisional hernia, the question posed is whether or not repairs of incisional hernias are at a higher risk for wound infection also. To answer this, we analyzed the incidence of wound infection after repair of incisional hernias during a 30 month period and compared it with the infection rate in all other clean procedures performed during the same period. All repairs of incisional hernias were performed upon patients with completely healed incisions without clinical signs of infection. Patients undergoing concomitant procedures upon the gastrointestinal tract were excluded. During the 30 month period, 995 clean operations were performed. In the 80 repairs of incisional hernias, there were 13 infections proved by culture, yielding an over-all infection rate of 16 per cent. In the remaining 915 clean procedures, there were 14 wound infections (1.5 per cent, p less than 0.0001). Of these 915 clean operations, 241 were repairs of inguinal hernias. Two infections occurred in this subgroup (0.8 per cent, p less than 0.0001, compared with repairs of incisional hernias). In patients undergoing repairs of incisional hernias with previously documented wound infections, 41 per cent had infected repairs. By comparison, only 12 per cent of patients without a prior infection had infections develop in the hernial repair (p less than 0.05). The infection rate for patients not receiving prophylactic antibiotics (21 per cent) was almost twice the rate for those receiving antibiotics (11 per cent), p = 0.07. We concluded that repair of incisional hernias has a significantly higher rate of infection than do other clean general surgical procedures. Herniorrhaphy of a wound that was previously infected is at a higher risk for reinfection, despite complete healing of the skin and absence of clinical signs of infection. Perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis may be indicated, but randomized studies are needed. For reporting and surveillance purposes, repairs of incisional hernias should not be classified as clean surgical procedures. PMID- 2530642 TI - Percutaneous stone clearance of the gallbladder through an access cholecystostomy. Laparoscopic-guided technique. AB - A laparoscopic-guided technique of percutaneous gallstone fragmentation/removal has been developed in the pig. The procedure entails the creation of a percutaneous access cholecystostomy. The access tract can be safely dilated after 7 days to F16, thereby allowing the introduction of both the Olympus flexible and the Berci-Shore rigid choledochoscopes. Following endoscopic occlusion of the cystic duct by a biliary balloon catheter, stone fragmentation can be conducted under direct visual control. In this particular study, electrohydraulic lithotripsy was performed of human cholesterol and bile-pigment stones inserted into the gallbladder of 16 pigs. The gallstone debris resulting from lithotripsy was then washed out with saline. Larger residual fragments could easily be extracted with the Dormia basket under visual guidance. There was a significant positive correlation between stone size (r = 0.98) and weight (r = 0.96) and the number of pulses needed to achieve satisfactory stone fragmentation. The gross composition of the stones (predominantly cholesterol or pigment) did not influence the number of pulses required. Electrohydraulic lithotripsy caused an explosion effect (the fragments hit the gallbladder wall), causing submucosal haematoma formation. This, however, was not followed by any untoward effect until sacrifice of the animals 10-16 weeks later. Electrohydraulic shocks delivered to the gallbladder wall itself resulted in larger haematoma formation and breach of the gallbladder mucosa with active bleeding into the gallbladder lumen, but again no instance of gallbladder perforation was encountered.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530643 TI - Laparoscopic laser cholecystectomy. A comparison with mini-lap cholecystectomy. AB - The standard treatment of cholelithiasis in the United States is surgical removal of the gallbladder, but this treatment often has a major economic impact on the patient: major surgery, lengthy hospitalization, and several weeks' absence from work. Because of this economic factor, there has been a movement toward non invasive methods, but they, too, have their drawbacks: long-term medical therapy; a high risk of stone recurrence because the diseased gallbladder is still in place. We therefore developed a means of performing a cholecystectomy through a laparoscope using laser technology, the results of which are compared here with the results in a series of "mini-lap" cholecystectomies that we also performed during the same time period. PMID- 2530644 TI - A biomechanical study of suture pullout in linea alba. AB - The relationship of suture bite size, suture diameter, and fascial thickness to strength of wound closure was studied in cadaveric linea alba. All soft tissue was removed from the fascia of 12 abdominal walls that were cut into 346 test sections. A single suture loop was placed in each section, simulating laparotomy closure with interrupted technique. Suture bite size (0.3, 0.6, 0.9, 1.2, 1.5, and 1.8 cm) and gauge (00, 0, 1, and 2) were randomly assigned. The force and energy required to pull out suture loops were measured. Mean linea alba thickness was greater above the linea semicircularis than below (1.19 vs 0.77 mm; p less than 0.001). Similarly, mean pullout force was greater above the linea semicircularis (58.2 vs 31.6 N; p less than 0.001). Regression analysis found that fascial thickness and bite size accounted for 68% of observed variability in pullout force. Suture diameter was unrelated to pullout force. Optimum security was obtained with bites of at least 1.2 to 1.5 cm. PMID- 2530645 TI - Single-chain and two-chain tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA) bind differently to cultured human endothelial cells. AB - It has recently been shown that the fibrinolytic components plasminogen and tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA) both bind to cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). After cleavage of t-PA by plasmin, "single-chain" t-PA (sct-PA) is converted into "two-chain" t-PA (tct-PA), which differs from the former in a number of respects. We compared binding of sct-PA and tct-PA to the surface of HUVEC. Removal of t-PA bound to HUVEC by a mild treatment with acid and a subsequent quantification of eluted t-PA both by activity- and immunoradiometric assays revealed that, at concentrations between 10 and 500 nM, HUVEC bind about 3-4 times more sct-PA than tct-PA. At these concentrations, both sct-PA and tct-PA remain active when bound to HUVEC. Mutual competition experiments showed that sct-PA and tct-PA can virtually fully inhibit binding of each other to HUVEC, but that an about twofold higher concentration of tct-PA is required to prevent half-maximal binding of sct-PA than visa versa. These results demonstrate that sct-PA and tct-PA bind with different affinities to the same binding sites on HUVEC. PMID- 2530646 TI - Platelet-aggregation is stimulated by lactose-inhibitable snake venom lectins. AB - Five lactose-specific lectins from snake venoms were tested for the ability to stimulate the aggregation of human platelets. Three of the lectins, bushmaster (Lachesis muta), cottonmouth (Ancistrodon piscivorous leukostoma) and rattlesnake (Crotalus atrox) lectins, consistently stimulated secretion and aggregation. Thrombolectin (Bothrops atrox) occasionally caused aggregation. Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix contortrix) lectin did not by itself cause platelet aggregation. Lactose, a specific inhibitor of hemagglutination mediated by these lectins was a potent inhibitor of lectin-induced aggregation. Antiserum specific for bushmaster lectin inhibited aggregation by bushmaster lectin. In contrast, the same antiserum and anti-cottonmouth lectin serum enhanced aggregation by low levels of the other lectins. A variety of substances were assayed in the aggregometer for the ability to inhibit aggregation in response to these lectins. Both secretion and aggregation were inhibited by PGI2 and PGE1. Furthermore, lectin-induced aggregation was completely blocked by trifluoperazine and partially blocked by indomethacin. Monoclonal antibodies specific for GP IIb/IIIa (AP2, A2A9, LJP5, LJCP8) but not monoclonals directed against other platelet membrane proteins (AP1 and AP3) inhibited lectin-induced aggregation. The peptide Arg-Gly-Asp-Ser but not Arg-Ala-Asp-Ser was a potent inhibitor of aggregation. PMID- 2530649 TI - [Physicians' tasks in connection with application for disability pensions]. AB - The article includes a general view of Disability Pensions in the National Insurance Scheme. Some statistics relating to Disability Pensions are included. We thoroughly examine the procedures for handling a new case, and the possible introduction of new ways of simplifying the procedures for dealing with new applications for disability pension. From the professional point of view, we discuss in detail the doctors task in regard to new applicants' demand for disability pension; in particular elderly patients over 64, and abusers of alcohol and drugs. We focus briefly on the diffuse diseases. We also consider the patients' right to read the medical certificate. PMID- 2530647 TI - Monoclonal antibodies directed to the calcium-free conformation of human protein S. AB - Four mouse hybridomas secreting monoclonal antibodies specific for human protein S (PS) have been generated. The antibodies, all of the IgG1 subclass, were designated S2, S3, S8, and S10. In a fluid phase radioimmunoassay, the binding of monoclonal antibodies to PS was about 30% greater in the presence of EDTA and totally inhibited in presence of Ca2+. Using the same technique, we performed displacement curves of 125I-labeled PS by purified PS, thrombin-cleaved PS, normal plasma, plasma from a patient on warfarin therapy, and plasma from a patient with no free PS and only PS bound to C4b-binding protein. The slopes of the curves show that the monoclonal antibodies reacted equally with all the tested forms of PS indicating that the antigenic site(s) to which the monoclonal antibodies are directed are present and exposed in free and bound PS, in thrombin cleaved PS, and in the coumarin form of the protein. Each EDTA-dependent antibody, immobilized on Sepharose 4B-CNBr was used to purify PS from the barium citrate-absorbed, ammonium sulphate-soluble fraction of plasma. The fraction eluted from the immunoabsorbent with a buffer containing 4 mmol/l CaCl2 and analysed by SDS-PAGE, contained two bands, one migrating with conventionally purified PS and the other with purified C4b-binding protein. Homogeneous PS was obtained by chromatography of the barium citrate adsorbate on a DEAE-Sephadex column. The protein peak containing the bulk of PS was subsequently applied to the immunoadsorbent and eluted with 4 mmol/l CaCl2.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530648 TI - Familial dysfunction of protein S. AB - We describe a previously unreported defect of protein S characterized by low levels of cofactor activity for activated protein C contrasting with low normal levels of total and free protein S antigen. The distribution of protein S between the free form and the form complexed with the complement component C4b-binding protein was normal on two-dimensional immunoelectrophoresis. The proband developed juvenile deep-vein thrombosis while taking oral contraceptives. Her defect was transmitted in an autosomal dominant fashion from her asymptomatic mother. Other relatives carrying the same laboratory abnormality (mother, maternal uncle, two sisters and one brother) were also asymptomatic. We postulate that the defect is due to a dysfunctional protein S present in plasma in normal amounts and with normal proportions of the free and complexed forms of the protein. PMID- 2530650 TI - [Chromosome fragility as the cause of mental retardation]. PMID- 2530651 TI - [Welfare and disability, a medical responsibility, too?]. PMID- 2530653 TI - [The healing characteristics of the sockets following surgery in tooth extraction in workers in viscose manufacturing]. AB - The study of cicatrization after the teeth extraction in workers of viscous rayon industry which had had a long contact with sulfuric carbon revealed a lower regeneration potential and increased complication incidence as compared to control patient group. Preventive measures are designed providing for control check-ups 3 to 5 days after the intervention and the use of rehabilitation period in presurgical preparation of the patients. PMID- 2530652 TI - [The use of fluorine-containing coatings for isolating fissures of the molars and premolars to prevent caries]. AB - Experimental and clinical investigations were performed to assess the caries preventing potencies of hermetic covering with Epoxylite-9075 (USA) and vitacryl (USSR) insulating the intact fissures in molars and premolars. Intact sheathing is capable of protecting the tooth against caries for a long time. Fluoride as a component of the material increased the enamel caries-resistance. PMID- 2530654 TI - [Stomatologic morbidity in children in the Predgornyi District, Stavropol Territory]. AB - Tap water fluoridation was juxtaposed to the incidence of dental caries among children residents of Stavropol Territory. The average incidence of dental caries was 86 to 91.5%. This condition was most prevalent in 6 and 15-year groups, and less frequent in 12-year-old group. No correlation could be detected between water fluoride contents and the caries incidence. It seems likely that not only the fluoride levels but other microelements as well produced a beneficial effect on the state of the teeth. PMID- 2530655 TI - [The prevalence and intensity of dental caries and periodontal diseases among Tbilisi schoolchildren]. PMID- 2530657 TI - [Ways for raising the quality of the training of specialists in pedodontics]. PMID- 2530656 TI - [Stages in the development of dental care in Volgograd Province]. PMID- 2530658 TI - [3 years' working experience in introducing the primary prevention of stomatologic diseases]. PMID- 2530659 TI - [The work experience of students of a dentistry department in introducing medical pedagogic measures at the school]. PMID- 2530660 TI - Effect of tamoxifen on the activity of enzymes of testicular steroidogenesis. AB - Testicular homogenates of tamoxifen-treated rats were incubated with labeled steroid precursors (progesterone, 17 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone, dehydroepiandrosterone, androstenedione or testosterone) in order to study the effect of tamoxifen on testicular steroidogenesis. The results indicate that a 9 day treatment with a daily dose of 1 mg tamoxifen produces a reduction of the synthesis of testosterone. Inhibition of the 17 alpha-hydroxylase and C17,20 desmolase enzyme systems was observed together with an increased 20 alpha hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity. PMID- 2530661 TI - The concentration of 16x-hydroxy androgens in serum and cyst fluid of women with gross cystic disease of the breast. AB - The concentrations of 16 alpha-hydroxydehydroepi-androsterone sulfate (16 alpha OHDHAS) and androst-5-ene-3 beta, 16 alpha-, 17 beta-triol-3-sulfate (A-TriolS) were measured in the plasma and breast cyst fluid (BCF) of women with gross cystic disease of the breast. In the 19 BCF samples analyzed, the 16 alpha-OHDHAS and A-TriolS concentrations ranged from 15 to 1130 ng/mL, and 12 to 871 ng/mL, respectively. However the concentrations of these steroids in the sera of these women were lower (15-179 ng/mL, 8-80 ng/mL, respectively). Estriol-3-sulfate (E3 3S) concentrations in the BCF samples ranged from barely detectable (0.2 ng/mL) to 3 micrograms/mL. In BCF or serum a positive linear correlation was observed in the concentration of 16 alpha-OHDHAS and A-TriolS (p less than 0.001 and 0.05, respectively). However, in the same patients no statistical significance was observed in the BCF vs serum concentrations of these two steroids. When the specimens from this and previous studies were combined, positive correlation was found between potassium ion concentration and E3-3S or 16 alpha-OHDHAS. The origin of the high concentration of E3-3S is still obscure. Although no linear correlation between 16 alpha-OHDHAS and E3-3S was observed, the possibility of a precursor-product relationship between the two is not elimnated. PMID- 2530662 TI - Radioimmunoassay of estrone sulfate in the serum of normal men after a chromatographic procedure that eliminates dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate interference. AB - Fifty fresh-frozen normal male sera containing tritiated estrone sulfate (ES) and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DS) were extracted with ethanol after ether extraction of unconjugated steroids. Washed extracts were defatted and chromatographed on polyamide-coated plates by reversed phase paired ion TLC. Plates were scanned for radioactivity, and ES peaks were cut, eluted and assayed by direct RIA with a commercially available antiserum. Mean ES values were 445 +/ 209 pg/mL (SD), in agreement with the three lowest of the seven laboratories which had previously reported normal male ES values. No differences were observed in ES values when samples were rechromatographed prior to assay, or when up to 4 micrograms/mL unlabeled DS was added to serum before extraction. These data confirm the absence of interference by DS in the current study and suggest that previously reported high (716-1194 pg/mL) mean normal male ES values reflect DS interference. The present study also demonstrates the the stability of ES in sera stored frozen at -40 C for an average of 17 years (mean: 406 +/- 258 pg/mL; [SD]; n = 41). PMID- 2530663 TI - [Stomatologic care of handicapped patients using general anesthesia--a study over period, 1980-1986]. AB - In the years 1980-1986 there were provided 159 operations under narcosis at the clinic for maxillo-facial surgery in the district hospital Zwickau. The aim was the complex oral rehabilitation with handicapped people. In connection with this there were diaguized 10.4% complications of the narcosis and 4.3% complications of the operation. In accordance with other authors there are demands for a pre- and postoperative concept. PMID- 2530664 TI - [Problems in optimizing the territorial forensic medical service]. PMID- 2530665 TI - Improved radioreceptor assay for the determination of plasma levels of dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers in humans. AB - Ways of improving sensitivity of the radioreceptor assay to determine the plasma levels of dihydropyridine calcium antagonists were investigated. Extraction of the drug from plasma with organic solvent was found to enhance the sensitivity of the assay (method 1). Alternatively, the inhibitory effect observed when plasma is added directly to the binding assay can be counteracted by increasing the amount of membranes in the assay (method 2). Plasma levels after single oral doses of nitrendipine and nicardipine were followed with method 1. Plasma levels of isradipine were measured with methods 1 and 2 and by mass fragmentography. The data confirm that nitrendipine plasma level kinetics vary widely from patient to patient, whereas for nicardipine the drug level profile is more homogeneous. The similarity of the data obtained from the radioreceptor assay and from mass fragmentography suggests the absence of any active metabolite of isradipine. PMID- 2530666 TI - Plasma atrial natriuretic factor and graft function in renal transplant recipients. AB - In order to determine the relationships between allograft function and the recipient's plasma concentrations of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF), plasma ANF was measured by radioimmunoassay for 14 days after cadaveric renal transplantation in 9 patients aged 19-64 years. All received immunosuppression with prednisolone, azathioprine, and cyclosporine. No patient was in heart failure. During the study period, six grafts functioned, and three were nonfunctioning--two due to rejection and one to acute tubular necrosis. Plasma ANF concentration at the time of transplantation was 48 +/- 16 pmol/L (mean +/- SEM) range 15-145 pmol/L. In the six patients with functioning grafts, ANF declined in parallel with the fall in serum creatinine (658 +/- 35 to 210 +/- 34 mumol/L). In the three with nonfunctioning grafts, serum creatinine and plasma ANF concentration both increased. There was overall a significant linear relation between serum creatinine and plasma ANF (r = 0.527, P less than 0.001). The changes in plasma ANF after renal transplantation bore no relationship to changes in body weight or blood pressure. However, plasma ANF concentration was related to allograft fractional sodium excretion (r = 0.687, p less than 0.001). We conclude that elevated plasma ANF concentrations in end-stage renal disease are restored to normal by successful renal transplantation, implying that renal function is a determinant of plasma ANF concentration. Circulating plasma ANF may also have a direct effect on allograft sodium excretion. PMID- 2530667 TI - Suppression by cyclosporine of cellular and humoral reactivity after peripheral nerve allografts in mice. AB - Peripheral nerve allografting has been the subject of many experimental and clinical studies. As yet, however, no successful method has been established. One reason is the lack of detailed studies on the immune response under different conditions. We examined both the cellular and humoral immune responses in fresh sciatic nerve allografts in inbred mice, using a mixed lymphocyte culture reaction and a lymphocyte-mediated cytotoxicity to examine cellular immunity and a complement-dependent cytotoxicity test to examine humoral immunity. Enhanced MLC activity against donor allogenic major histocompatibility complex antigens was demonstrated, and specific cytotoxic T cell activity and the production of specific antigens in serum also were observed. Thus peripheral nerve tissue exhibited potent immunogenicity. We used cyclosporine, an immunosuppressive agent, to suppress the immune response and obtain favorable nerve regeneration. We performed immunologic and histologic studies to establish a causal relationship. Administration of 20 mg of CsA suppressed both the cellular and humoral immune response to levels comparable to those seen in isografting. Histologic examination disclosed favorable regeneration of axons, also comparable to that seen in isografts. PMID- 2530668 TI - Blood transfusion-induced suppression of delayed-type hypersensitivity to allogeneic histocompatibility antigens. AB - In this study delayed-type hypersensitivity against histocompatibility antigens in mice was suppressed by a single donor-specific blood transfusion. Whole blood as well as purified white blood cells and purified red blood cells were capable of inducing suppression. White cells appeared more potent in inducing suppression than red cells. Suppression was dose-dependent, still detectable after administration of as little as 0.001 ml of whole blood and maximal at a dose of 0.1 ml. The suppression was already present a few hours after transfusion and proved to be long-lasting. The suppressive effect could be transferred to naive recipients by Thy-1+, L3T4-, Lyt-2+ spleen cells. This suppressor T cell population was of recipient origin--which excludes the possible involvement of "veto cells" and suppresses the afferent phase as well as the efferent phase of the DTH response. PMID- 2530670 TI - Evidence of intragraft interleukin-2-activated killer cells and allospecific cytolytic T lymphocytes in rejecting lung allografts. AB - In vivo cell-mediated effector mechanisms of allograft destruction were investigated in a canine single-lung transplantation model. This large animal model permits direct longitudinal studies of immune effector cells from the grafts of individual recipients by bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). Evidence was obtained that two types of cytolytic lymphocytes act as effectors of allograft destruction. Typical allospecific cytolytic T lymphocytes, were detected late in the course of rejection in nonimmunosuppressed recipients and in cyclosporine treated recipients during the latter stage of drug tapering. The other type of intragraft cytolytic lymphocyte was observed in the early stages of CsA dose tapering and was characterized by ability to lyse xenogeneic targets in a lectin dependent cytotoxicity assay but inability to kill allogeneic target cells from the lung donor. These cytolytic cells were also detected in the initial stage of lung rejection in non immunosuppressed recipients and in the early period (3 days) of mixed lymphocyte culture. Current interpretation of these data is that these latter effector cells have the characteristics of IL-2-activated killer cells (IAK). Substantial delays in the detection of intragraft donor-specific CTL relative to IAK activity were observed in recipients undergoing CsA dose tapering compared with nonimmunosuppressed recipients. This finding suggests that appropriate CsA treatment may lead to prolonged inhibition of the generation of donor-specific CTL compared with induction of IAK activity. Delayed detection of intragraft donor-specific CTL paralleled the absence of such activity in donor specific MLC of tolerant lung allografter recipients. The result of CsA therapy may, therefore, be characterized as a state of "partial unresponsiveness," since certain pathways of immune effector activity remain intact after termination of treatment. The differential effect of CsA on various pathways of allograft destruction may have important implications regarding concepts of alloreactivity and T cell-mediated immune responses. PMID- 2530669 TI - Histochemical properties of muscle allografts enhanced via cyclosporine. AB - Until recently, the transplantation of skeletal muscle across a major histocompatibility barrier has proved difficult. However, with the advent of cyclosporine (CsA), it has become possible to achieve extended survival across such histocompatibility barriers. To date, very little is known about the histochemical, biochemical, immunological or contractile properties of long-term surviving muscle allografts. Consequently, it was the focus of this study to histochemically examine muscle allografts prolonged with CsA and determine the cross-sectional area of fast glycolytic muscle fibers. Measurements of cross sectional area were made because they are an important correlate to the amount of tension a muscle can generate. Animals were assigned randomly to one of three groups: control (normal) (n = 5), syngeneic (n = 4), and allogeneic (n = 4). Muscle allografts were performed by transplanting the gastrocnemius of an ACI rat (RT1a) hindlimb into the hindlimb of a Lewis rat (LEW;RT1(1]. The syngeneic model consisted of an ACI-to-ACI transplant. Animals in the allograft group were given CsA (8 mg/kg/day) until the time of sacrifice. At approximately 100 days following transplantation, both syngeneic and allogeneic muscles were removed from the recipient, and quickly frozen in isopentane cooled by liquid nitrogen. Muscle fibers were classified as slow-oxidative (SO), fast-oxidative-glycolytic (FOG), or fast-glycolytic (FG) based upon their staining for myofibrillar ATPase and NADH-dehydrogenase. From each muscle, the cross-sectional area of approximately 175 FG muscle fibers was determined. The fast-glycolytic muscle fibers of both the syngeneic and allogeneic grafts demonstrated a substantial decrease in cross-sectional area. The mean value (+/- SD) for the fibers of the allografted muscle was 1165 +/- 533 microns 2. The mean (+/- SD) fiber cross sectional area for the fibers of the syngeneic muscle was 973 +/- 421 microns 2. These values contrast with a mean (+/- SD) value of 3552 +/- 601 microns 2 for fibers from age-matched control animals. The differences between the syngeneic and allogeneic muscles were not significant (P greater than 0.05). However, both exhibited significant (P less than 0.01) atrophy compared with the control muscle. PMID- 2530671 TI - Percutaneous atherectomy of a recurrent renal transplant artery stenosis. PMID- 2530672 TI - Predictive strength of mixed lymphocyte cultures for acute graft-versus-host disease in patients transplanted with HLA-identical sibling bone marrow. PMID- 2530673 TI - Assessment of the relative roles of antigen and nonantigen signals in activation of allogeneic T cells. PMID- 2530674 TI - Stimulator cells produce multiple nonantigen signals that determine T cell activation. PMID- 2530675 TI - Cyclosporine A treatment induces changes in CD45R (restricted common leukocyte antigen) expression in the mixed lymphocyte reaction. PMID- 2530676 TI - Prostaglandin E1 and E2 suppression of in vitro lymphoid responses to alloantigen. PMID- 2530677 TI - The effect of bone marrow-derived cells on lysosomal enzyme activity in the brain after marrow engraftment. PMID- 2530678 TI - Profile of cataract patients in the Eye, Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, Rangoon. AB - We report on our experience of cataract surgery in the Eye, Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital (EENTH), Rangoon. Cataract patients constituted 52% of all those admitted with eye diseases to the EENTH in a year. The mean number of cataract cases operated per month was 282. Among cataracts the senile form was the commonest. The female to male ratio for senile cataract patients was 1.2, and the average age at admission was 68 years. The mean duration of stay in hospital was 7 days with an operation time of 19 min. The patients had to come to hospital for follow-up for an average period of 3.1 months to complete treatment. The need to consider cataract surgery as an outpatient procedure is discussed. PMID- 2530680 TI - [Treatment of lumbar backache with muscular training]. PMID- 2530681 TI - [Local thrombolytic therapy in the complex treatment of acute iliofemoral venous thrombosis]. PMID- 2530679 TI - Global control of hepatitis B virus (HBV) PMID- 2530682 TI - [Principles of the organization of surgical treatment of varicose veins]. PMID- 2530683 TI - Technique for pacemaker placement in private practice: a case report. PMID- 2530684 TI - Incisional hernias in the horse. Incidence and predisposing factors. AB - Medical records of 210 horses that survived ventral midline celiotomy for at least 4 months were examined and owners were queried to determine factors contributing to incisional hernia formation. The incidence rate of incisional hernias within 4 months was 16%. Factors significantly associated with occurrence of incisional hernias were incisional drainage, closure of the linea alba with chromic gut suture material, previous midline celiotomy, excessive incisional edema, castrated male sex, postoperative leukopenia, and postoperative pain (colic). Factors not significantly associated with occurrence of incisional hernias were suture pattern used for linea alba closure, concurrent enterotomy or intestinal resection, postoperative bandage or stent, postoperative fever, hypoproteinemia, diarrhea, respiratory disease (coughing), and peritonitis. Hernias developed in horses within 12 weeks of surgery, with the earliest hernia recognized at week 2. Of 30 horses for which information was available, only one hernia developed in 24 (80%) and two or more hernias developed in 6 (20%) along the incision. Multiple hernias tended to be smaller than single hernias. PMID- 2530685 TI - Priming for local and systemic antibody memory responses to bovine respiratory syncytial virus: effect of amount of virus, virus replication, route of administration and maternal antibodies. AB - We studied the conditions under which calves can be primed for mucosal and serum antibody memory responses against bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV), and the relationship between such responses and protection against the virus. Calves were primed via the respiratory tract with a low or high amount of live virus, with killed virus, or intramuscularly with live virus. Calves were challenged via the respiratory tract. Priming with live virus via the respiratory tract induced primary antibody responses in serum and on the mucosae, which were identical after the low and the high amount of virus. These responses were suppressed by maternal antibodies. Intramuscular priming of seronegative calves induced serum IgG1 and sometimes serum IgM and IgG2 responses, but no responses were detected on the mucosae. Sera of calves primed by the intramuscular or the respiratory route recognized the same viral proteins. No responses were observed after priming with killed virus, or after intramuscular priming of calves with maternal antibodies. After challenge, mucosal and serum antibody memory responses developed in calves that had been primed via the respiratory tract with live virus, whether they had maternal antibodies or not. One colostrum-fed calf showed a mucosal memory response, although serum responses were still suppressed by maternal antibodies. None of the calves thus primed shed virus after challenge. Intramuscular priming also primed for mucosal and serum memory responses after challenge, which however started perhaps slightly later and were not associated with protection against virus shedding. Priming with killed virus, or with live virus intramuscularly in the presence of maternal antibodies proved least effective in inducing memory and protection against virus shedding. Thus, protection against virus shedding was afforded by priming with live virus via the respiratory tract, both in calves with an without maternal antibodies. Protection was associated with a strong and rapid mucosal antibody memory response, but the reverse was not necessarily true. Protection against virus excretion had no relationship to titers of serum neutralizing or serum IgG1 or nasal IgA antibodies at the time of challenge. PMID- 2530686 TI - [Evaluation of the Q wave in leads II, III and aVF. II. Impulse conduction disorders , hypertrophy of the cardiac muscle, pre-excitation, focal and diffuse changes in the cardiac muscle and other causes]. AB - The authors present a brief account of contemporary findings in the literature on the evaluation of the Q wave in the electrocardiogram in leads II, III and aVF in disorders of the conduction of impulses (also combination with focal lesions of the heart muscle), in preexcitation of various extent, in hypertrophy and different focal and diffuse changes of the heart muscle. They mention briefly also other cardiac and extracardiac causes of the development and persistence of the Q wave in leads, II, III, aVF. They reached the main conclusion that isolated evaluation of this phenomenon only from the electrocardiogram can lead to erroneous conclusions, therefore they advocate comprehensive evaluation of the clinical condition of these patients (in indicated cases with extension of the range of ECG examinations by vectorcardiography and mapping of electric potentials of the heart on the body surface; echocardiography and scintigraphy may prove valuable). PMID- 2530687 TI - [The organization of medical supplies for the troops in the Byelorussian operation]. PMID- 2530688 TI - [The organization of the work of a center for providing medical care in an earthquake focus]. PMID- 2530689 TI - [The organization of therapeutic care for victims at the hospital stage]. PMID- 2530690 TI - [The 50th anniversary of the formation of the Kuibyshev Military Medical Academy of the Workers' and Peasants' Red Army]. PMID- 2530691 TI - [The authority of the physician]. PMID- 2530692 TI - [Medical rehabilitation problems in patients with dust-induced bronchitis]. PMID- 2530693 TI - [Study of the age dynamics of nutritional indicators and blood lipids in connection with the incidence of ischemic heart disease in the male population of Frunze]. AB - Epidemiological investigation of males aged 20-59 years in Frunze has shown atherogenic tendency of age dynamics of blood lipid level. The character of the nutrition of the population studied proved to be as a whole atherogenic due to imbalance with respect to the main food substances. The shifts detected in the parameters of nutrition and blood lipids correlate well with rather high incidence of coronary heart disease among the population investigated. PMID- 2530694 TI - [Nutrition and the incidence of ischemic heart disease and risk factor for its occurrence among men 20-59 years of age depending on their ethnic group affiliation]. AB - The epidemiological investigation of males aged 20-59 years, conducted in Frunze, has shown a rather high incidence rate of coronary heart disease (CHD) and its risk factors among them, the nutrition being related with the incidence of CHD and its risk factors. The character of nutrition is distinctly associated with differences in the incidence of hypercholesterolemia and hypertriglyceridemia among the indigenous and nonindigenous population. PMID- 2530695 TI - [The role of nutritional factors in the development of obesity among the adult residents of Kazakhstan]. AB - Etiologic factors of obesity were studied by the questionnaire method in the population of Kazakhstan aged over 15 years. Among 4912 subjects with excessive body mass alimentary disorders promoting the development of obesity were detected in 32.6%, low energy expenditure--in 26.6%, endocrine disorders--in 15.4%, and hereditary factors--in 6.9%. The incidence rate of these factors has proved to be different among the urban and rural populations, in the north and west regions of the Republic, as well as among females and males. PMID- 2530696 TI - [Metabolism of B group vitamins in rats, receiving rations with various amounts of protein and amino acids under conditions of chronic aniline poisoning]. AB - The influence of the isocalorific rations with decreased (10%) or increased (32%) protein content, and addition of cystine, methionine and glutamic acid (100 mg/kg) on metabolism of vitamins B2, B6 and PP was studied in rats under conditions of experimental chronic aniline intoxication. Increased protein amount in the diet and addition of amino acids sharply raise vitamin B6 requirement; vitamin B2 requirement grows with the increase of protein fraction and methionine and glutamic acid addition. Providing with vitamin PP under these conditions rises. Chronic aniline intoxication negatively influences the vitamin status of the test animals. Providing with vitamin B6 is most sharply decreased. Glutamic acid shows "saving" influence with respect to vitamin B2. The effect of chronic aniline intoxication on providing with vitamin PP is most manifested in the redistribution of oxidized and reduced nicotine amide coenzymes in the liver in the direction of a relative growth of reduced NAD and NADP concentrations. PMID- 2530697 TI - [Pesticide residues in the food of residents of grain-growing areas of the Krasnodarsk region]. PMID- 2530698 TI - Mitochondrial ATP-ASE as a measure of uncoupling of rat muscle mitochondria in experimental infection with Trichinella spiralis and Trichinella pseudospiralis. AB - Changes in a bioenergetic state of Trichinella spiralis and Trichinella pseudospiralis infected rat and mouse muscle mitochondria were evaluated enzymatically, and in both infections 3-4-fold increase of mitochondrial, Mg++ stimulated ATP-ase (EC 3.6.1.3) was observed. Looking for the dynamics of those bioenergetic changes in T. pseudospiralis infected rat and mouse muscle mitochondria 1-2 weeks, pi, the 5-6-fold stimulation of mATP-ase activity, followed by a significant drop between the week 3-4th was found. In in vitro experiments cytoplasmic fractions isolated from T. spiralis and T. pseudospiralis larvae stimulated strongly mATP-ase activity of control rat liver mitochondria, the effect being much more pronounced in case of T. spiralis larvae. The factor(s) present in cytoplasmic fractions seem(s) to be heat-labile, of high molecular weight. Those experiments in vitro prove the causative role of the presence of T. spiralis and T. pseudospiralis larvae in the uncoupling of host muscle mitochondria. Since some relationship between the intensity of infection and the degree of uncoupling was observed, the measurements of the activity of this enzyme might serve not only as a biochemical method of differentiation between infected and normal muscles, but may be useful in crude evaluation of the intensity of these tissue infections. PMID- 2530699 TI - Measuring the consequences of illness. AB - The International Classification of Impairments, Disabilities, and Handicaps (ICIDH) was developed as a means for measuring the impact of illness and its consequences, although there was much delay before the classifications became at all well known. After giving an outline of how the ICIDH came into being, this article considers the basis of different types of health problem and of the potential of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) and the ICIDH to reveal useful information on such problems. The ICIDH is based on a tripartite distinction between impairment, disability and handicap. It can be used as a resource at four different levels--for enlightenment about the nature of disablement problems and how they might relate to policies and services; as three detailed classification schemes to facilitate structuring of data about impairment, disability and handicap respectively; as a framework which provides an agenda for appraisal and assessment; and for facilitating management functions, perhaps especially the evaluation of care. Philosophical and ideological criticisms of the ICIDH are discussed, and means for applying what has proved to be the most controversial component or dimension, the handicap code, are illustrated. At the root of many difficulties is people's failure to appreciate that the same pieces of information can be used to illuminate complementary aspects of problems when the data are regarded from different perspectives. Further experience along the lines currently being undertaken should not only resolve many of the difficulties, but should also encourage more widespread adoption of the approach underlying the ICIDH. PMID- 2530701 TI - [Estimating the value of disability-free life expectancy for western countries in the last decade. How can this new health status indicator be used?]. AB - Disability-free life expectancy (DFLE) is an indicator of the mean duration of life in good health, based on the measurement of mortality combined with the measurement of disability. To date, some experimental calculations have been carried out mainly in Canada, England, France, the Netherlands and the United States of America. Taking these studies as a whole, disability-free life expectancy in the last decade can be estimated at about 59 years for men and about 63 years for women. The share of years of disability within life expectancy ranges from 11% to 27%. The calculations show that women suffer disability for a greater part of their life expectancy than men. The calculations also reveal social inequalities in health. Health authorities in Western countries are showing increasing interest in this indicator today. The main points in its favour are its simplicity in practice, its usefulness for determining objectives, allocating resources, measuring the success or failure of health policies, assessing current needs and defining future scenarios. PMID- 2530700 TI - Survey design strategies for the study of disability. AB - This article examines international statistical guidelines and recommendations relevant to the collection and analysis of disability data in population census, household survey and civil registration programmes. It also gives examples of survey design methods and their influence on findings of disability surveys. These examples are taken from the results of population censuses, household surveys and registration systems of 55 countries, as compiled in the United Nations Disability Statistics Data Base (DISTAT, 1988). Comparisons of crude disability rates, defined as the percentage of the total population that is disabled, indicate considerable variation in the rates both within and across the major data-collection types. Cross-national variations in disability rates are not only due to actual differences in disability rates, but are also the result of differences in survey design, the statistical concepts and definitions and the survey screening devices used. This article provides the reader with specific examples of screening devices tried and topics covered in survey programmes, and reviews the potential for using the ICIDH as one way of standardizing survey results. Short lists of impairments and disabilities for survey research are proposed. Survey implementation of the study of handicap is also discussed, and a list of possible survey topics for the study of handicap is outlined. PMID- 2530703 TI - Use of the WHO classification in assessing the prevalence of diseases, impairments and handicaps in Punjab Province, Pakistan. PMID- 2530702 TI - The International Classification of Impairments, Disabilities, and Handicaps (ICIDH): its use in rehabilitation. AB - This article intends to show possibilities and examples of actual use of ICIDH in rehabilitation. Most of the examples concern the use of the classification at the individual level (patient profile, assessment of patient needs, evaluation of treatment, discharge status). Some can serve at meso level: aggregated data (statistics) for evaluation of treatment at institutional level, determination of numbers of staff required. A few other examples concern the use of the ICIDH at macro level in rehabilitation: national policy, education and training of professionals, community-based rehabilitation programmes. Special attention is given to examples of ICIDH use in rehabilitation of special groups such as children, the mentally retarded, cancer patients, elderly people, geriatric patients. PMID- 2530704 TI - Using the International Classification of Impairments, Disabilities, and Handicaps in surveys: the case of Spain. AB - A survey was conducted in Spain in 1986 to estimate the number of people with disabilities and to identify the impairments which had given rise to them. The survey also set out to identify the causes of these impairments and to analyse the nature and extent of the handicaps resulting from these impairments and disabilities. The frame of reference for the survey was the WHO International Classification of Impairments, Disabilities, and Handicaps (ICIDH), which was adapted in a number of ways. The most radical departure was to begin the survey with disabilities, which were considered easier to identify. 15% of the population presented a disability, the rate mostly increasing with age, with substantial differences between the sexes and pronounced gradients in relation to socioeconomic status in some cases. Analysis of disabilities and impairments by administrative area also revealed some significant geographical variations. The study of handicaps posed some particularly complex problems of methodology. In conclusion, the work of the Spanish survey was facilitated by the use of the ICIDH, but this classification requires several substantial modifications before it can be systematically used in surveys of this type. PMID- 2530706 TI - Planning services together with disabled people: the importance of a common language. AB - The very terms used to describe the consequences of disease have normative implications which have important repercussions on the elaboration of policies with respect to the identification and treatment of these consequences. The author highlights the problems and effects caused by an individualistic procedure based mainly on the "cure or care" approach, and suggests a terminological and conceptual framework which might take better account of the social aspects of disability. PMID- 2530705 TI - [Measurement of handicap in the community: a micro survey in a French village]. AB - Handicap is the result of a process initiated by an underlying disease, an accident or an abnormality, which leads to a functional deficit in various situations of everyday life. This definition, derived from the International Classification of Impairments, Disabilities, and Handicaps (ICIDH), reflects the desire of the elderly and the handicapped for social integration. It may also form the conceptual basis for analysis of the capacities of individuals and populations. To this end, a micro-survey was conducted in a homogeneous village community of 532 people aged 1-92 years. This study was of the ergonomic type, accompanied by a questionnaire on perceived restrictions and handicaps, and carried out transversely over a period of one month (94.7% participation). The specific objectives of the study were to obtain a reliable functional representation of the population of the village, comparing self-assessment of functional capacity with observed performance, and analysing the effects of age on capacity. The copious data collected in the areas of locomotion, prehension and communication have provided a detailed functional profile of the population studied. These data may be transposed to particular environments, such as transport, housing, school or work, and may serve as a basis for comparisons. The difficulties encountered by subjects in the tests were closely correlated with the situations simulated by the tests. Subjective estimation of handicap proved to be reliable in comparison with actual performance, especially for tests of mobility and highly demanding situations. Estimation of the presence of a handicap increased with age. The deterioration in performance observed was proportional to age, but can be perceived to begin early, at about 30-40 years. Disability-free life expectancy (DFLE) could be an interesting indicator in so far as it appears to be sensitive to the confrontation of individual functional capacities with the environment. However, it is important that any disability used as a basis for calculation should be measured with maximum precision. A community survey of this kind is thus particularly useful for ergonomic purposes, but is also valuable for the planning of medical and social assistance at the local level in the areas of disability and handicap. The combination of observation and listening to people, with an interview, appears to be fruitful and reliable. Single studies of well-targeted samples of the population, or, alternatively, of larger and more significant populations, would be desirable in public health, since the epidemiological approach to handicap has hitherto been essentially focused on diagnosis and medical evaluation. PMID- 2530707 TI - [Atrial natriuretic peptide, antidiuretic hormone and aldosterone during delivery and the puerperium]. AB - Plasma concentrations of ANP, Aldosteron and ADH were determined immediately ante and post-partum and on the second day of puerperium in 36 healthy women, 12 primiparous and 24 multiparous. These parameters were also measured by RIA in umbilical cord plasma obtained at the time of delivery. The values were compared with an age-matched group of non pregnant women. The mean ANP-values before and after birth showed no significant difference but they were higher than in the non pregnant controls, and in umbilical cord plasma. The mean Aldosteron values during pregnancy and puerperium were significantly elevated against the non pregnant women, but they showed a marked decrease on the second day of puerperium. The mean Aldosteron levels in umbilical cord plasma were higher than all pregnant values. The mean ADH-levels before and after birth were also elevated against the non pregnant group, but on the second day of puerperium a significant decrease was established. The mean values of umbilical cord plasma were significantly elevated against all other maternal and non pregnant values. PMID- 2530708 TI - [Heparin and mucopolysaccharide polysulfuric acid ester permeate human skin]. AB - After topical application of commercial preparations containing heparin and heparinoids (MPS) in concentrations of 30,000 up to 150,000 IE/100 g, the individual layers of the skin show more or less increased heparinization, which can be traced by means of the permeation chamber technique. The average concentration of heparin and MPS in the dermal layers containing capillaries is about 0.1-0.5 IE/ml and 400-40,000 ng/ml, respectively, depending on the quality of the horny layer. We did not find any evidence for the permeation being activated either by DMSO, urea, or other accelerators. Repeated exposition to the preparation within 4 hours, however, resulted in increased permeation of heparin and MPS. The amount of the gel or ointment applied was of no significance. PMID- 2530709 TI - [Angiography and functional results and histologic findings following percutaneous atherectomy in patients with arterial occlusive disease]. AB - In this study we report on the atherectomy technique, acute and long-term data, and histological findings of excised specimens from patients with peripheral vascular disease treated with the Simpson atherectomy catheter. Forty patients with a total of 72 lesions of the iliac (n = 5), superficial femoral (n = 62), and popliteal (n = 5) arteries could be treated; five patients had rest pain and two had gangrene. The primary success rate (of all lesions, including total occlusions and longer stenoses) was over 90%. The percent of stenosis decreased from 87.2 +/- 19.9% to 16.6 +/- 15.5%; the claudication distance improved from 80.5 +/- 65.7 m to 152.8 +/- 80.3 m; the Doppler index (leg/arm) increased from 0.57 +/- 0.17 to 0.81 +/- 0.16. At 6 months the mean walking distance and Doppler index remained stable from post-atherectomy; the mean percent of stenosis had increased to 35.7 +/- 30.9%. The angiographic restenosis rate (defined as stenosis greater than 70%) was 21% with a clear difference found depending on the primary morphology of the lesion: in eccentrics 5%, concentrics 27%, and total occlusions 42%, thereby allowing categorization of the suitability of a primary lesion for atherectomy. Histologically, restenoses showed more cellular proliferation and organized thrombus as compared to their primary stenoses; further investigations (cell culture, immunohistochemistry, and electron microscopy) are underway.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530710 TI - Pathogenesis of restenosis. AB - Reopening of atherosclerotic vessels by a growing number and variety of intraluminal devices inflicts different degrees and types of trauma. The vascular wall responds acutely with sealing by activation of the clotting system, and in the long term with healing by migration, proliferation and synthetic activity of vascular wall cells. This is a physiologic response, and the astonishing capability of vascular tissue to restore a new channel in this way leads to permanent patency in over 70% of the interventions. In restenosis, the responses are similar in type, but different in degree: exuberant activation of the sealing mechanisms results in thrombosis and immediate occlusion, and excessive healing responses result in intimal hyperplasia and obstruction of the lumen within several months. The signals and factors involved in the initiation and, more importantly, in the termination of such responses are discussed. Although many of the factors capable of limiting an exaggerated and persistent cellular reaction are not yet known, adequate blood flow seems to play an important role in determining when the healing response should stop and the scar should stabilize. PMID- 2530711 TI - Reocclusion/restenosis after coronary artery bypass surgery, percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty and thrombolysis. AB - Occlusion, reocclusion, and/or restenosis after interventions can be due to four mechanisms which require different approaches: 1) mechanical problems should be prevented by careful surgery and PTCA; 2) early platelet aggregation and thrombosis can be reduced by acetylsalicylic acid; 3) fibrocellular hyperplasia leading to restenosis after PTCA. So far prevention has been unsuccessful; and 4) progression of coronary disease, which may be prevented or delayed by rigorous reduction of risk factors and lipid lowering drugs, while again, acetylsalicylic acid may prevent late platelet aggregation and infarction. PMID- 2530712 TI - Pharmacology of thromboxane A2 receptor antagonists. AB - Thromboxane A2 and its immediate precursor, prostaglandin H2, induce platelet aggregation and constriction of vascular and bronchial smooth muscle. These effects are mediated through specific membrane receptors. Since these compounds have the same pharmacologic properties they are thought to share a common receptor that has been named thromboxane A2/prostaglandin H2. Evidence has accumulated in the last few years supporting the hypothesis that the platelet and vascular receptors are different. The platelet receptor has been tentatively named [TXA2/PGH2]alpha, alpha for aggregation and the vascular receptor (TXA2/PGH2]tau, tau for tone. In recent years there have been many thromboxane A2 receptor antagonists synthesized and some are now in various stages of clinical development. Based on many preclinical and some clinical studies, it appears that these drugs may prove to be of significant therapeutic benefit in a variety of cardiovascular and renal diseases. PMID- 2530713 TI - Reduction of the vein graft occlusion rate after coronary artery bypass surgery by treatment with a thromboxane receptor antagonist. AB - The early occlusion rate of vein grafts after coronary artery bypass surgery was reduced to 3.1% by treatment with a selective thromboxane receptor antagonist. The increased bleeding tendency caused by the substance led to a non-significant increase in blood transfusions. PMID- 2530714 TI - Sulotroban during and after coronary angioplasty. A double-blind, placebo controlled study. AB - Sulotroban, a sulphonamide derivative, causes an inhibition of platelet aggregation by blocking thromboxane A2 receptors. We tested the effects of Sulotroban (4 x 800 mg per day) on acute events during and recurrence rate after coronary angioplasty, and compared it with placebo in a double-blind randomized fashion. The follow-up protocol included regular compliance control by pill count, stress testing, and coronary angiography at 6 months. Restenosis was defined as a loss of 50% of the initial gain in luminal diameter. A total of 107 patients were randomized. There were no differences between the groups in terms of age, sex, artery distribution, or left ventricular function. Primary success per vessel was 86% for the Sulotroban group (50/58), and 88% for the placebo group (51/58). Complications occurred in nine patients (8%): five emergency bypass operations and three myocardial infarctions. There were no differences between the centers, or the study groups. The study protocol was completed for 57 patients. There was one death in the placebo group. Restenosis was found in 65% of patients in the Sulotroban group (19/29) and 61% of patients in the placebo group (17/28) (ns). If all patients were included on an intention to treat basis, regardless of primary success and compliance with the protocol, the recurrence rate was 57% in the Sulotroban group (20/35), compared with 56% in the Placebo group (20/36) (ns). This randomized, double-blind study failed to show that Sulotroban is superior to placebo in preventing acute problems during, or restenosis after, coronary angioplasty. PMID- 2530715 TI - [beta-Thromboglobulin concentration, thrombocyte count and thrombocyte volume from four selected sample collections]. AB - beta-Thromboglobulin, blood platelet count and blood platelet volume are presented by a reference group (N = 30) and are compared with a group of patients having mild thrombocytopenia, migraine and renal disease before, during as well as after dialysis. Patients with migraine have statistically significant differences regarding these three parameters in comparison to the reference group. Renal patients demonstrate a marked increase of the beta-thromboglobulin values during dialysis and a rapid decrease two hours afterwards. PMID- 2530716 TI - Comparison of intradermal and intramuscular hepatitis B vaccination in university students. AB - Antibody levels following intradermal and intramuscular hepatitis B vaccination were compared in a group of university students matched for age and sex. Intradermal vaccination gave satisfactory antibody levels in females, but much lower levels than by the intramuscular route and an unacceptable failure rate in men. The cost implications of introducing a selective vaccination policy in health care workers are discussed. PMID- 2530718 TI - [Nutrition and health in relation to ecology]. AB - The ecological situation in the recent 20 years in the Kazakh SSR occupying one sixth of the USSR territory is analysed. The analysis shows a 3-29-fold rise in total morbidity for various infectious and somatic diseases associated with the drastic worsening of the ecological situation in the Aral Sea region; childhood and maternal mortality rates have significantly increased. Investigations made at the Institute for Regional Nutritional Problems of the USSR AMS have shown that pesticides, excessive mineral fertilisers, and various microorganisms and their metabolites (toxins) are priority food product pollutants for all Kazakhstan regions. An important role played by the nutritional status in showing a cancerogenic effect by nitro compounds has been established. A complex of sanitary-hygienic measures aimed at improving the State sanitary control over the environmental objects and food products has been elaborated that will improve the ecological situation in this republic. PMID- 2530717 TI - Effect of anatomic injection site, age and smoking on the immune response to hepatitis B vaccination. AB - Soon after the plasma-derived hepatitis B vaccine became available in the US, the Centers for Disease Control and the manufacturer received over 100 reports of vaccinated groups with unexpectedly low levels of vaccine-induced antibody. To confirm previous retrospective surveys relating these failures to buttock injection and to evaluate the effect of other host factors on vaccine-induced antibody responses, we conducted a clinical trial in healthy health-care workers. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three treatment groups: 1-Ar, 1 inch needle injection in the arm; 1-Bu, 1-inch needle injection in the buttock; 2 Bu, 2-inch needle injection in the buttock. All participants were administered vaccine according to the standard vaccine dosage schedule of 20 micrograms at 0, 1 and 6 months. Antibody response rates (antibody to hepatitis B surface antigen greater than or equal to 10 sample ratio units by radioimmunoassay) and geometric mean titres of antibody two months after the third vaccine dose were 93% and 1454 mIU ml-1 for group 1-Ar, 72% and 85 mIU ml-1 for group 1-Bu, and 83% and 387 mIU ml-1 for group 2-Bu. Seroconversion rates and titres of antibody in the three groups were significantly different from each other statistically. Increasing age, increasing total skinfold thickness and cigarette smoking were independently associated with lower antibody responses in persons receiving buttock injections but not in persons receiving arm injections.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530719 TI - [Measures for the combined therapy and prevention of dermatoses occurring in workers in contact with organophosphorus pesticides]. AB - Allergenic and photosensitizing effects of organophosphorus pesticides (OPP) have been detected, as well as their destructive effect on the skin cell ultrastructure, on the body metabolism and enzymic systems, and the inhibitory effect on cholinesterase activity. Pesticide-induced changes in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are significant in the mechanism of dermatoses development. The complex of treatment-and-prophylaxis measures includes regular dermatologic check-ups and limitation of the number of subjects handling OPP. Subjects in whom premorbid shifts have been detected, should be followed up. The therapy and prevention of the dermatoses developing as a result of exposure to pesticides may be effectively carried out with antioxidants, amino acids, vitamins, etc.; diets with the optimal PUFA-tocopherol ratio are advisable. Overalls with multiple protective physicochemical characteristics, filtering respirators and such are recommended. PMID- 2530720 TI - [Experience in treating senile and seborrheic keratomata by cryogenic action with liquid nitrogen]. AB - A total of 189 patients with senile keratosis and 490 with seborrheic keratomata have been treated with cryotherapy. Relapses have been recorded in 6.1% of patients. PMID- 2530722 TI - [Toxiderma resulting from occupational contact with pelargonium]. AB - A female worker has developed toxicoderma after occupational exposure to Pelargonium. PMID- 2530721 TI - [The functional properties of interleukins in psoriasis]. AB - IL-1 and IL-2 interleukins have been studied in patients with diffuse psoriasis en papules et plaques in the stationary stage. The results evidence increased production of IL-1 and its reduced reception by the immunocompetent cells. The lymphocytes have been characterized by a reduced IL-2 synthesis and its lower binding with IL-2-sensitive cells. PMID- 2530723 TI - [The epidemiology of scabies]. AB - Soviet and foreign literature data on scabies morbidity structure in families and organized collective bodies are reviewed. The authors' own data include an analysis of 88 clinical and epidemiological charts, developed and filled in by the authors. The notion of the disease focus in scabies is introduced for the first time. The foci are divided into potential (with an only patient) and irradiating ones (with two and more patients). Organized collective bodies predominate among the potential foci (85.7%), whereas families prevail among the irradiating foci (80.7%). The incidence rate of the condition in a focus depends not on the focus size, but on the time and intensity of the contacts of the patients with healthy subjects. PMID- 2530724 TI - [The clinical characteristics of psoriasis in children]. AB - Analysis of case histories of 529 children suffering from psoriasis has shown an increased number of hospitalized patients in the recent years, a growing severity of the disease course, a higher incidence rate of erythrodermal and arthropathic forms and of familial cases of the disease. PMID- 2530725 TI - [Dermatologic pathology in chronic alcoholics]. AB - A total of 1159 chronic alcoholics, treated at narcology departments, have been screened for dermatologic diseases. The reference group consisted of 2735 subjects matched for age and working conditions, but not abusing alcohol. Skin diseases have been detected in 43% of alcoholic patients; this is almost 5 times more that in the reference group. Psoriasis has been found 10 times more frequently in these patients than in the controls. These results prompt that dermatologists should take part in comprehensive examinations and treatment of alcoholic patients. PMID- 2530726 TI - [The significance of the People's Commissariat of Public Health of the RSFSR in the control of venereal and infectious skin diseases during the formation of Soviet public health]. AB - The author follows up the history of activities aimed at sexually transmitted diseases control during the years of building up the Soviet public health. A significant reduction of the incidence rate of these diseases has been achieved as a result of this activity over the first decade of the Soviet power. PMID- 2530727 TI - [Monoclonal antibodies in the study of malignant skin lymphomas]. AB - Comprehensive analysis of skin infiltrate cells, carried out in malignant lymphomas of the skin, has included examinations with the use of monoclonal antibodies (MCA). Basing on the clinical, histologic, and immunologic findings, mycosis fungoides has been diagnosed in 9 patients and T-cellular lymphoblastic lymphosarcoma consisting of T-suppressors in 1. The findings evidence that (1) mycosis fungoides is a tumor consisting of OKT4 cells in the majority of cases; (2) mature T-cell markers are sometimes lost in the course of mycosis fungoides, this being parallelled by the emergence of antigens characteristic of earlier differentiation stages, e. g. corticothymocytic ones; (3) immunologic heterogeneity is a characteristic feature of malignant lymphomas of the skin; this may be explained by both: the tumor progress of the clone and the therapeutic pathomorphosis; (4) use of MCA to a wide spectrum of leukocytic differentiation antigens permits an accurate estimation of the nature of the tumor cells and of the cellular relationships; this helps understand the pathogenesis of malignant lymphomas of the skin and develop new treatment modalities. PMID- 2530728 TI - [The participation of the octapeptide cholecystokinin and beta-endorphin in the neurochemical support of the interspecific and intraspecific aggressivity of rats]. PMID- 2530730 TI - [Polarization microscopic studies of the dental enamel margin diagonal following the use of various preparation instruments and an etching gel]. AB - The composite enamel bond considerably depends on mechanical produced surface beside the chemical conditioning. Polarization microscopic investigations at thin planes let recognize different profiles of surfaces, variations of medium etching depths and variable frequencies of enamel fractures in the area of enamel margin bevel after application of a preparing diamond cutter, a finishing diamond cutter, a wound geared tungsten carbide finisher and the combination of a preparing diamond cutter with a tungsten carbide finisher on the same conditioning with an etching gel of 37% phosphoric acid. The only application of a wound geared tungsten carbide finisher is not indicated if the enamel etch technique is used. There the combination of a preparing diamond cutter with a tungsten carbide finisher proved a success both relating to profiles of enamel bevel after acid etching, small disturbed enamel structure and as to clinical handling. PMID- 2530729 TI - [Multiple [3H]8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)-tetralin binding sites in rat brain: modulation by GTP and cations]. AB - [3H]8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)tetralin ([3H]8-OH-DPAT) is thought to label a single population of serotonin (5-HT)1A receptor, but some reports implicate multiple binding sites exist. In addition, while 5-HT1A receptor activates or inhibits adenylate cyclase, 5-HT1A receptor high and low affinity states are not reported. In this experiment, we found that [3H]8-OH-DPAT had multiple binding sites, which contained 5-HT1A receptor high and low affinity states, in rat brain membranes. [3H]8-OH-DPAT saturation binding experiment revealed high and low affinity binding sites existed. High affinity binding site was dense in hippocampus and sparse in striatum. 5-HT agonist and antagonist biphasically displaced [3H]8-OH-DPAT binding in frontocortical, hippocampal, and striatal membranes. These drugs potently displaced high affinity [3H]8-OH-DPAT binding, but clomipramine (5-HT reuptake inhibitor) potently displaced low affinity binding. High affinity [3H]8-OH-DPAT binding site was decreased by guanosine triphosphate and Na+, but increased by divalent cations, implicating coupling with G protein(s). Low affinity [3H]8-OH-DPAT binding site was decreased by cations, especially by monovalent cations and Ca2+. After the destruction of 5-HT neuron by parachloroamphetamine, only the low affinity binding site decreased. These results indicate that [3H]8-OH-DPAT not only labels the 5-HT1A receptor high and low affinity states but has presynaptic binding site relating to 5-HT reuptake site. PMID- 2530731 TI - [Scanning electron microscopy studies of the marginal finish conditions of tooth neck ceramic inlays treated with a silane coupling agents and bonded with a composite]. AB - The therapy of cervical lesions in the visible facial area is not free of problems. The aim of this study is to investigate the marginal leakage by means of SEM analysis after in vitro and in vivo application of porcelain inlays in the cervical area, bonded to the enamel by a microfilled composite. Our results show, that the bond between composite and enamel is better than the bond between composite and inlay treated with a silane coupling agent. Problems of the leakage size and of the transparency can favourably be influenced by the composite as cementation material. PMID- 2530732 TI - [Scanning electron microscopy study of wedge-shaped defects in extracted teeth and in in-vivo conditions]. AB - The surface of wedge shaped defects of 51 extracted teeth was examined with the scanning electron microscope. To study morphology of surfaces of 12 defects in vivo a replication technique was carried out. It was shown that there is a relation between the morphological features and the clinical symptoms. In the progression of the defects there are active and passive phases, what will be reflected on the one side in the clinical symptoms and on the other side in the morphological features. PMID- 2530733 TI - [Three-dimensional recording of changes in infant jaws with bilateral lip-maxilla palate clefts with special reference to the results of preoperative orthodontic therapy]. AB - Bilateral clefts are more difficult to treat than unilateral ones. The most important step during the orthopedic therapy is the retrusion of the premaxilla between the lateral segments of the maxilla. Thus the anterior cleft width, as opposed to the medial and posterior cleft width, did not become smaller. The position of premaxilla is mainly shown in the sagittal measurement values. The values of slope also changed in this sample. The maxilla became more flat. The preoperative orthodontic therapy can also be seen as advantageous in the case of bilateral clefts. PMID- 2530734 TI - [Studies on the development of mandibular rami lesions in clicking of the temporomandibular joint]. AB - The laterotrusion of the mandible is often combined with the clicking of the temporomandibular joint. An optoelectronic measuring method renders it possible to exactly record the clicking and the position of the mandible at this moment. With this method 25 patients with an initial clicking were observed. Moreover the capiti mandibulae of dissections were measured in order to determine the width of the caput mandibulae and the size of the fovea pterygoidea mandibulae. The results show the connection of clicking, laterotrusion mandibulae, hypertrophy and dysfunction of the lateral pterygoid muscle. The therapy for the clicking is derived from this. PMID- 2530736 TI - [Comparative transmission electron microscopy and shadow-profile studies of acid etched enamel surface areas]. AB - The shadow profile monitoring of etched enamel surfaces was used for the investigations of constitutional differences. This method allows a three dimensional projection of the partially demineralized human enamel. PMID- 2530737 TI - [Analysis of peroxidases in human dental plaque]. PMID- 2530738 TI - [The aciduric properties of Streptococcus mutans]. PMID- 2530735 TI - [Teratogenically altered palate formation in Uje:WIST rats. 5. Reaction mode of the mesenchyma]. AB - After administration of the teratogen the ability of the mesenchymal cells to synthesize proteoglycans is impaired. In the fusion area of the palatal shelves there is, like in normal development, an increase in lysosomal activity. PMID- 2530739 TI - [Experimental studies of the laser welding of Co-Cr alloys using a pulsed Nd:YAG laser]. PMID- 2530740 TI - [HLA system and lip-jaw clefts]. PMID- 2530742 TI - [Responsibility of dentist for treatment of retarded in dental workplace]. PMID- 2530741 TI - [The diagnosis of radiation-induced jaw lesions. 3. Results of laser-Doppler ultrasound blood flow measurements]. PMID- 2530743 TI - [The use of DNA fingerprint analysis for the differentiation of populations of toxigenic Corynebacterium diphtheriae]. AB - 13 C. diphtheriae strains were used as a model to establish the conditions of making the fingerprint analysis of chromosomal DNA. These strains, subdivided into 7 groups in accordance with the character of their restriction splitting, were mostly isolated from territorially close sources and belonged to the same phagotype. Probably, C. diphtheriae DNA has strain variations manifested by an unequal number and location of the sites of the recognition of specific endonucleases, which may be used for the intraspecific differentiation of C. diphtheriae. PMID- 2530744 TI - [Morphofunctional characteristics of the microcirculatory bed of the spinal cord in experimental trauma]. PMID- 2530745 TI - A prospective comparative clinical study between monofilament absorbable and non absorbable sutures for abdominal wall closure. AB - One hundred and sixty-seven patients undergoing laparotomy were randomly allocated to a continuous layered closure technique with absorbable monofilament polyglyconate (PG) (Maxon*) or non-absorbable polyamide (PA) (Ethilon*). Laparotomy wounds were closely observed during the postoperative hospital course and all patients were reviewed at one month, six months and one year. Any wound complications were noted. Two patients in the PA group (3.0%) presented with burst abdomen and one (1.9%) in the PG group (ns). The incidence of incisional hernia was not statistically different between the two groups (4/64, 6.0% in PA group and 4/65, 6.2% in PG group). The postoperative wound infection rate was 21.0% in the Pa group and 15.4% in the PG group (ns). The present study clearly shows a major increase in incidence of wound failure in patients with infected abdominal wounds in both groups (28.6% vs 3.8% in PA group p less than 0.025; 20% vs 5.5% in Pg group p less than 0.05). This clinical trial confirms the important roles of wound infection and respiratory failure in the occurrence of wound failure; the choice of an absorbable or a non-absorbable suture material seems to play a minor role only. PMID- 2530746 TI - Plasma concentrations of atrial natriuretic factor during positive end-expiratory pressure ventilation in dogs with normal or impaired left ventricular function. AB - The influence of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) ventilation on plasma concentrations of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) was studied in dogs anesthetized with sodium pentobarbital during normal cardiac function and during acutely impaired left ventricular function. Left ventricular impairment was induced by injecting repeated doses of polystyrene microspheres with a diameter of 50 microns into the main left coronary artery, causing a severe depression of left ventricular performance. This was accompanied by doubling of ANF concentrations measured in blood sampled from aorta. Application of PEEP (10 cmH2O (0.98 kPa] reduced plasma ANF in dogs both with normal and impaired left ventricular function. The decrease was significantly greater during left ventricular impairment compared to control, 31 and 19%, respectively. A positive correlation was observed between plasma ANF and transmural left ventricular end diastolic pressure when all data were pooled, but not between ANF and transmural right atrial pressure. This implies that transmural left ventricular end diastolic and hence transmural left atrial pressure probably is the principal determinant of acute ANF release in this model. Reduced plasma ANF in response to PEEP even during acute left ventricular impairment when ANF release was augmented, was probably due to diminished atrial distension during PEEP ventilation. PMID- 2530747 TI - The incidence of herniated disc and varicella zoster virus infection in lumboradicular syndrome. AB - 121 patients suffering from lumboradicular syndrome were examined for the presence of varicella zoster virus (VZV) infection. Lumbar myelography was carried out on all. VZV-antibody determination in blood, as well as in spinal fluid, was by indirect ELISA. In 40% of cases lumbar myelography revealed no signs of a herniated disc; none had raised antibody titre in spinal fluid. VZV antibody titre in blood indicated VZV infection in only 3. PMID- 2530748 TI - Ultracytochemical localization of Ca2+-ATPase activity in reactive astrocytes. AB - Ca2+-ATPase activity on the astrocyte plasma membrane was investigated ultracytochemically, using the lead salt technique. Normal astrocytes showed a weak cytochemical reaction for Ca2+-ATPase activity, deposits of the reaction product being small. At 7 and 15 days after cold lesioning, reactive astrocytes apparently in the process of repair of the edematous lesion were observed; these demonstrated an intense cytochemical reaction for Ca2+-ATPase activity in their plasma membranes facing the extracellular fluid, with reaction product accumulation. At 2 months, the lesion had progressed to glial scars containing sporadic microcysts. The reactive astrocytes surrounding the microcysts demonstrated a moderate cytochemical reaction for Ca2+-ATPase activity in their free plasma membranes, whereas those arranged in a cell-to-cell pattern showed little reaction product in their plasma membranes. In conclusion, a more intense cytochemical reaction was always observed in the free plasma membrane of reactive astrocytes. PMID- 2530751 TI - Common acute lymphoblastic leukemia-associated antigen (CALLA)-positive B cell lymphoma. AB - We analyzed the expression of common acute lymphoblastic leukemia-associated antigen (CALLA) in 134 cases of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of the B cell type using an immunohistochemical method. The incidence of CALLA expression in B cell lymphomas was higher in follicular lymphomas (29%) than in diffuse lymphomas (15%). Malignant lymphoma (ML), follicular small cleaved cell (FSC) according to the histologic type, showed a considerably high incidence of CALLA (43%), whereas ML, diffuse small cleaved cell (DSC) displayed a very low incidence (5%). These findings suggest the possibility that these two morphologically similar lymphomas may be derived from distinct populations of B cells [CALLA+-germinal center (GC) cells, CALLA- -germinal center (GC) cells or mantle zone (MZ) cells]. In addition, one case of DSC expressed surface immunoglobulin D (SIgD) and alkaline phosphatase (ALPase) as well as CALLA. This indicates that CALLA-positive small cleaved cell lymphoma expressing SIgD or ALPase may represent neoplastic proliferation of CALLA-positive MZ cells of secondary follicles in lymph nodes. PMID- 2530750 TI - Subcortical afferent projection systems in Huntington's chorea. AB - The number and nucleolar volume of nerve cells within the nucleus basalis of Meynert, locus caeruleus, substantia nigra and dorsal raphe were examined in five patients with Huntington's chorea. No significant changes in nerve cell number were noted in any area in any patient and, although nucleolar volume was reduced in nerve cells of locus caeruleus and substantia nigra in four patients, this was considered to reflect medication rather than to be related to the disease process itself. It is concluded that the subcortical afferent projection systems of the mid-brain and brain stem are unaffected in Huntington's chorea and that the dementia in such patients most likely relates to changes within the cerebral cortex and/or damage to corticopetal pathways within the basal ganglia. PMID- 2530752 TI - [Spectrophotometric determination of complex formation constants of naproxen with caffeine, nicotinamide and salicylic acid in aqueous solution]. AB - The interaction between water insoluble drug naproxen with caffeine, nicotinamide and salicylic acid in aqueous solutions were determined by spectrophotometry. Naproxen was found to form 1:1 molecular complex with these substances. The complex formation constants were determined by spectrophotometry at room temperature. The thermodynamic functions associated with complexation of naproxen drugs were also evaluated. It may be concluded that the complex formation may be attributed to hydrogen bonding since enthalpy changes were shown to be a few KJ.mol-1. PMID- 2530749 TI - Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma involving the brain. Diagnostic usefulness of stereotactic needle biopsy in combination with paraffin-section immunohistochemistry. AB - A stereotactic needle biopsy was examined for applicability in diagnosing brain non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL), because the procedure is far less aggressive than biopsy by open surgery. Formalin-fixed materials including four stereotactic specimens were available from nine patients with brain NHL. In addition to routine histopathology and histochemistry, paraffin-section immunohistochemistry was performed using a panel of monoclonal antibodies suited to such sections. Although several histopathological features characteristic of brain NHL could not be evaluated in three of the four stereotactic specimens owing to the small size of the specimens and partial invasion by lymphoma cells, the lesions in all cases could be characterised by immunohistochemistry. Examination for cytoplasmic immunoglobulin (cIg) was also performed, but specific identification of cIg was difficult in five cases because of diffuse background staining and passive diffusion of plasma protein into the cells during tissue processing. A review of the literature indicates the technical difficulty in cIg staining, since the incidence of cIg-positive cases in an individual study varied considerably, and lymphoma cells in 15 of 128 cIg-positive brain NHL cases have been reported to possess both light chains. From these findings, together with the relative difficulty in obtaining fresh tissues for study, it is concluded that, when the specimens are to be examined by paraffin-section immunohistochemistry using the above monoclonal antibodies, stereotactic needle biopsy is a useful, less aggressive method for diagnosing brain NHL. PMID- 2530753 TI - [Studies on the medicinal plants of Magnoliaceae tu-hou-po of Manglietia]. AB - Data from a survey of the drug market and investigation of the original plant of "Tu-hou-po", after careful botanical examinations, showed that the drugs were derived from 5 species of the genus Manglietia of Magnoliaceae, viz. Manglietia chingii Dandy, M. insignis (Wall.) Bl., M. duclouxii Finet et Gagnep., M. yuyuanensis Law and M. szechuanica Hu. Comparisons of the main characteristics of the plants, Tu-hou-po and Hou-po crude drugs and chemical components showed that Manglietia is taxonomically the closest to Magnolia and contained similar components (tab 1-2 and fig 1). The results of HPLC analysis demonstrated that they contained magnolol, honokiol, magnocurine and salicifoline, in different quantities. However, no magnosprengerine was detected. Besides, it was also found that the percentage of magnolol and honokiol contents were higher, while that of magnocurine was lower in Hou-po. On the contrary, the content of magnocurine was higher, while that of magnolol and honokiol were lower in Tu-hou-po. Manglietia chingii (Tu-hou-po) is being used as the Chinese traditional drug "Hou-po" in the clinic in Guangxi. Therefore, M. chingii is noteworthily exploited as a new resource of Hou-po for further research. PMID- 2530754 TI - [Method of analysis for musk, artificially bred musk and original musk by HPLC]. AB - The ether extract of musk, artificially bred musk and original musk reacted with 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine to form corresponding phenylhydrazones. The products were determined by HPLC. The conditions of quantitative analysis of muscone hydrazone and qualitative analysis of delta 5-androstene-3 beta-hydroxy-17-one hydrazone and 3 alpha-hydroxy-5 alpha-androstan-17-one hydrazone, such as the choice of chromatographic columns and mobile phase were studied. The results of standard curve and recovery experiment are satisfactory. Dual detection and MS were used to identify and analyse the purity of the chromatographic peak of muscone hydrazone. Experiments of addition of standards were used to confirm the peaks of delta 5-androstene-3 beta-hydroxy-17-one hydrazone and 3 alpha-hydroxy-5 alpha-androstan-17-one hydrazone. PMID- 2530755 TI - Effects of tetrahydroprotoberberines on dopamine receptor subtypes in brain. AB - The effects of 12 tetrahydroprotoberberines (THPBs) on D1 and D2 receptors labelled with [3H]DA, [3H]Sch-23390 and [3H]spiperone were evaluated. Their effects on the activity of adenylate cyclase stimulated with DA 40 mumols/L were also assessed. All of the l-THPBs tested behaved as DA receptor antagonists with preferential affinity toward the D1 receptors. Among them, l-stepholidine (l SPD), a THPB analog with 2 hydroxy groups at the C2 and C10 positions, was the most potent. Its affinity toward D1 receptors was 4-7 times higher than that toward D2 receptors. The results suggest that the hydroxy groups in l-THPBs are very important factors in determining the affinity to DA receptors. Moreover, d tetrahydropalmatine (d-THP), a dextro-THPB analog, displayed no affinity for the D2 receptor subtype, while its optical isomer, l-THP, was a DA receptor antagonist. This indicates that the levo-optical configuration is necessary for the affinity of THPBs to DA receptors. In addition, l-SPD was 18 times more potent than haloperidol with respect to binding to D1 receptors, but 14 times weaker for D2 receptors. Thus, it is expected that the clinical effects of l-SPD can be distinguished from that of haloperidol. PMID- 2530758 TI - The antidepressant paroxetine: a specific 5-HT uptake inhibitor. Proceedings of an international symposium. September, 1988. PMID- 2530757 TI - Interaction of vasopressin and of the atrial natriuretic peptide in blood pressure control. AB - Studies performed on normotensive (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) rats indicate that SHR are more sensitive to the hypotensive effects of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) administered as a bolus and in iv infusion as well as to pressor infusions (but not bolus injections) of vasopressin (VP). Elevation of blood ANP significantly enhanced reflex bradycardia elicited by bolus injections of VP in WKY, having no effect on pressor responsiveness to VP in any of the strains. Infusion of VP markedely enhanced the hypotensive action of ANP in both WKY and SHR, having no effect on reflex tachycardia elicited by ANP. V1 receptor blockade did not significantly influence effects of ANP on blood pressure and HR responses. The results suggest that under certain conditions ANP and VP may interact in blood pressure control and that this interaction is modified in SHR. In studies performed on conscious dogs central application of ANP exerted no effect on VP secretion in euhydrated animals and during iv infusion of hypertonic NaCl, stimulating thirst. A weak suppressing effect was observed in 24-h dehydrated dogs. The physiological role of ANP in inhibition of VP secretion and its relevance to blood pressure control remains to be established. PMID- 2530756 TI - Effect of histamine on isolated working guinea pig heart with left ventricular hypertrophy produced by pressure overload. AB - Left ventricular hypertrophy in guinea pigs was produced by partial constriction of the ascending aorta. 65-70 d after surgery, the animals were sacrificed and the hearts were mounted on a working heart apparatus. Results showed that all parameters of cardiac function in the hypertrophied (HT) group were depressed. The dose-response (D-R) curves for histamine (H) in the HT group shifted leftward and upward as compared with the sham-operated (S) group. In the presence of pyrilamine (P), the D-R curves for H shifted to the left in the S group, but the curves shifted to the right in the HT group. In the presence of cimetidine (C), the D-R curves for H shifted downward and rightward in both groups. In contrast to H, the D-R curves for norepinephrine (NE) on LVP/HW and CBF/HW in the HT group shifted rightward and downward as compared with the S group. These results indicate that the sensitivity of H2 receptors in hypertrophied heart was increased and that of beta receptors was slightly decreased, suggesting a possible beneficial effect of H2 receptor agonists in the treatment of certain types of cardiac failure, which are insensitive to catecholamine stimulation. PMID- 2530759 TI - Evaluation of the potential for interactions of paroxetine with diazepam, cimetidine, warfarin, and digoxin. PMID- 2530760 TI - New antidepressants and 5-HT uptake inhibitors. AB - The efficacy of 5-HT uptake inhibitors, including paroxetine, as antidepressants is compared with that of the reference tricyclic antidepressants. It is suggested that some of the older tricyclic antidepressants might not have been released for general clinical use if tested by today's rigorous standards. Placebo-controlled, multicentre studies indicate that 5-HT uptake inhibitors are both effective as antidepressants and well tolerated by depressed patients. They also appear to have a role in the treatment of depression when associated with personality disorders, in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder and bulimia, and in resistant depression. Moreover, the evidence for efficacy in the prophylaxis of depression is better established for 5-HT uptake inhibitors than for reference antidepressants. PMID- 2530761 TI - A placebo-controlled, double-blind, clinical trial of paroxetine in depressed outpatients. AB - A placebo-controlled, randomized, double-blind study was carried out in outpatients suffering from major unipolar depressive disorder to assess the efficacy and tolerability of paroxetine in the treatment of depression. The study lasted for six weeks. After a placebo washout period of 4 to 14 days patients took 20mg of paroxetine or matched placebo as a morning dose for one week; thereafter the dose of paroxetine could be titrated between 10 and 50mg/day. Patients were evaluated at baseline, weekly during the first four weeks of the study, and at the end of six weeks; patients who entered a six-week extension phase were evaluated at 9 and 12 weeks. Evaluations were carried out using HAMD (including ECDEU factors), MADRS, HSCL, Covi anxiety and Raskin depression scales, CGI, and a seven-point rating of global improvement. Adverse events and laboratory values were also recorded at each assessment. One hundred and eleven patients entered the study, and efficacy data were available for 102 of these (49 on paroxetine and 53 on placebo). Efficacy measurements demonstrated significantly greater clinical improvement with paroxetine than placebo after two weeks of treatment, and this became even more marked after six weeks. Patients who continued treatment for a further six weeks maintained their clinical improvement. When adverse events were examined, statistically significant differences between paroxetine and placebo were seen only for sweating, diarrhoea, nausea, and somnolence. No significant changes were seen in any of the laboratory parameters measured. If these results are confirmed in future studies, paroxetine will represent an important addition to the treatments available for depression. PMID- 2530762 TI - The effect of paroxetine on the electroencephalogram, electrocardiogram, and blood pressure. PMID- 2530764 TI - Introduction to the development of paroxetine, a novel antidepressant. PMID- 2530763 TI - Paroxetine in the treatment of depression: a comparison with imipramine and placebo. AB - Paroxetine is a selective serotonin uptake inhibitor, which is being investigated as an antidepressant. In this double-blind, six-week study 120 outpatients with DSM-III major depression were randomly assigned to treatment with paroxetine, imipramine, or placebo. Results showed a statistically significant superiority of paroxetine over placebo on almost all outcome measures. Paroxetine was significantly superior to imipramine on the HAMD total score and was generally better tolerated than imipramine. The results support paroxetine's effectiveness in the treatment of major depression and suggest that further studies with this compound are warranted. PMID- 2530765 TI - The therapeutic efficacy of paroxetine: (a) an open study in patients with major depression not responding to antidepressants; (b) a double-blind comparison with amitriptyline in depressed outpatients. PMID- 2530766 TI - A double-blind, multicentre study of paroxetine versus clomipramine in depressed elderly patients. PMID- 2530767 TI - An interim overview of the safety and tolerability of paroxetine. PMID- 2530768 TI - Meta-analysis of early phase II studies with paroxetine in hospitalized depressed patients. PMID- 2530769 TI - An overview of the animal pharmacology of paroxetine. AB - Animal studies show that paroxetine is a potent and selective inhibitor of 5 hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) neuronal uptake. It shows excellent activity after oral administration, and pharmacological studies on its principal metabolites indicate that they are much less active than the parent compound. Paroxetine possesses no overt sedative or antihistaminergic properties and it does not potentiate the effects of alcohol. Weak activating properties are observed in EEG studies in animals at doses generally greater than those required to inhibit 5-HT uptake in the CNS, and the activated EEG in rats is associated with slight locomotor stimulation. However, specific studies indicate that this activation is not amphetamine-like. Paroxetine does not inhibit monoamine oxidase in vitro. Paroxetine is well tolerated by the cardiovascular system, being qualitatively and quantitatively less cardiotoxic than amitriptyline. The weak affinity of paroxetine for muscarinic cholinergic receptors in vitro is associated with mydriasis in vivo, but only at doses well in excess of those required to potentiate the effects of 5-HT in the CNS. It is therefore concluded that paroxetine should be an effective antidepressant with a reduced propensity to induce the adverse events that are characteristic of the tricyclic class of antidepressants. PMID- 2530770 TI - A double-blind, multicentre study of paroxetine and mianserin in depression. PMID- 2530772 TI - A double-blind comparison of paroxetine and placebo in the treatment of depressed patients in a psychiatric outpatient clinic. PMID- 2530771 TI - A double-blind study to compare the effectiveness and tolerability of paroxetine and amitriptyline in depressed patients. PMID- 2530774 TI - Antidepressants and the peripheral nervous system. PMID- 2530773 TI - A double-blind study of the comparative antidepressant effect of paroxetine and amitriptyline. PMID- 2530776 TI - Paroxetine plasma levels: lack of correlation with efficacy or adverse events. PMID- 2530775 TI - Platelet 5-HT transport in depressed patients under double-blind treatment with paroxetine versus amitriptyline. PMID- 2530777 TI - Ability of charcoal to prevent absorption of paroxetine. PMID- 2530778 TI - Pharmacological effects of paroxetine after repeated administration to animals. PMID- 2530779 TI - Metabolic pathway of paroxetine in animals and man and the comparative pharmacological properties of its metabolites. PMID- 2530780 TI - Relative lack of cardiotoxicity of paroxetine in animal models. PMID- 2530781 TI - Comparative acute toxicity of paroxetine and other antidepressants. PMID- 2530782 TI - General and genetic toxicology of paroxetine. PMID- 2530783 TI - The reproductive toxicology of paroxetine. PMID- 2530784 TI - Immunological evaluation of paroxetine. PMID- 2530785 TI - The effects of paroxetine and maprotiline on mood, perceptual-motor skills, and eye movements in healthy volunteers. PMID- 2530786 TI - Cardiovascular and psychomotor effects of repeated doses of paroxetine: a comparison with amitriptyline and placebo in healthy men. PMID- 2530787 TI - The effects of paroxetine and other antidepressants in combination with alcohol on psychomotor activity related to car driving. PMID- 2530788 TI - The clinical pharmacology of paroxetine in healthy subjects. PMID- 2530789 TI - Paroxetine: lack of effect on the tyramine pressor response in man. PMID- 2530790 TI - The effect of paroxetine on the quantitative EEG. PMID- 2530791 TI - The psychomotor effects of paroxetine alone and in combination with haloperidol, amylobarbitone, oxazepam, or alcohol. PMID- 2530792 TI - Regional distribution of serotonergic pre- and postsynaptic markers in human brain. PMID- 2530793 TI - A review of the metabolism and pharmacokinetics of paroxetine in man. AB - Paroxetine is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, and appears to undergo first-pass metabolism which is partially saturable. Consistent with its lipophilic amine character, paroxetine is extensively distributed into tissues. Its plasma protein binding at therapeutically relevant concentrations is about 95%. Paroxetine is eliminated by metabolism involving oxidation, methylation, and conjugation. All of these factors lead to wide interindividual variation in the pharmacokinetics of paroxetine. Renal clearance of the compound is negligible. The major metabolites of paroxetine are conjugates which do not compromise its selectivity nor contribute to the clinical response. Ascending single-dose studies reveal that the pharmacokinetics of paroxetine are non-linear to a limited extent in most subjects and to a marked degree in only a few. Also, steady-state pharmacokinetic parameters are not predictable from single-dose data. In many subjects, daily administration of 20-50 mg of paroxetine leads to little or no disproportionality in plasma levels with dose, although in a few subjects this phenomenon is evident. Steady-state plasma concentrations are generally achieved within 7 to 14 days. The terminal half-life is about one day, although there is a wide intersubject variability (e.g. with 30 mg, a range of 7 65 hours was observed in a group of 28 healthy young subjects). In elderly subjects there is wide interindividual variation in steady-state pharmacokinetic parameters, with statistically significantly higher plasma concentrations and slower elimination than in younger subjects, although there is a large degree of overlap in the ranges of corresponding parameters. In severe renal impairment higher plasma levels of paroxetine are achieved than in healthy individuals after single dose. In moderate hepatic impairment the pharmacokinetics after single doses are similar to those of normal subjects. Paroxetine is not a general inducer or inhibitor of hepatic oxidation processes, and has little or no effect on the pharmacokinetics of other drugs examined. Its metabolism and pharmacokinetics are to some degree affected by the induction or inhibition of drug metabolizing enzyme(s). From a pharmacokinetic standpoint, drug interactions involving paroxetine are considered unlikely to be a frequent occurrence. Data available have failed to reveal any correlation between plasma concentrations of paroxetine and its clinical effects (either efficacy or adverse events). PMID- 2530794 TI - Paroxetine: pharmacokinetic and antidepressant effect in the elderly. AB - To evaluate the pharmacokinetic properties, efficacy, and tolerability of paroxetine in elderly depressed patients, a clinical study was set up--initially at Aalborg Psychiatric Hospital in Denmark, and subsequently at the University Hospital in Linkoping, Sweden. A total of 21 patients with a median age of 72 years were included in the study. After a single dose of 20 or 30 mg of paroxetine followed by two drug-free days, treatment continued with 20 or 30 mg daily for seven weeks. The majority of patients showed a continuous reduction in their HAMD scores, starting in the second week of treatment. Paroxetine was well tolerated at the doses given, and side-effects were mostly mild and transient. Steady-state, pre-dose plasma levels of paroxetine showed considerable variability, and the median steady-state concentration was higher in elderly patients compared with data from a previous study in young volunteers. Elimination half-lives also showed variability between these elderly patients, but tended to be longer after cessation of multiple dosing than after a single dose. They also tended to be longer than in the young volunteers. The results of this study do not advocate reduced doses of paroxetine in the elderly, but further studies are warranted. PMID- 2530795 TI - A pharmacokinetic dose titration study in adult and elderly depressed patients. PMID- 2530796 TI - The pharmacokinetics of paroxetine in the elderly. PMID- 2530797 TI - The pharmacokinetics of paroxetine in elderly depressed patients. PMID- 2530798 TI - The pharmacokinetics of paroxetine in renal impairment. PMID- 2530799 TI - The pharmacokinetics of paroxetine in patients with liver cirrhosis. PMID- 2530800 TI - Paroxetine: lack of effect on hepatic drug metabolizing enzymes. PMID- 2530801 TI - The effect of liver enzyme inhibition by cimetidine and enzyme induction by phenobarbitone on the pharmacokinetics of paroxetine. PMID- 2530802 TI - Absorption of paroxetine under various dietary conditions and following antacid intake. PMID- 2530803 TI - Construction of a modified murine interferon alpha with increased stability. AB - The mutant [Ser86] murine interferon alpha A was constructed by oligodeoxyribonucleotide-directed site-specific mutagenesis and expressed under the control of lambda phage PL promoter in Escherichia coli. The effect of the substitution of serine for the cysteine residue at position 86 in the murine interferon alpha A was studied. It was observed that the mutant Ser86 murine interferon alpha A which does not contain the free cysteine residue in the peptide was inactivated more slowly than its parent with a free cysteine residue at position 86. Heat-inactivated murine interferon alpha A cannot be reactivated, but the heat-inactivated Ser86 derivative can be reactivated significantly to about 27.5 per cent of the original activity in the presence of sodium dodecylsulfate. These results suggest that the free cysteine in the peptide is a factor contributing to the instability of the protein. PMID- 2530804 TI - The effect of cross-gender hormonal treatment on bone metabolism in male-to female transsexuals. AB - A deficiency of sex hormones leads in both sexes to increased bone loss, and hormonal substitution can prevent this. The effect of the change of hormonal environment on bone metabolism in transsexuals is unknown. Transilial bone biopsies were obtained from 23 male-to-female transsexuals (mean age +/- SD, 38.0 +/- 11.7 years) after estrogen (ethinylestradiol, 100 micrograms/day) and antiandrogen treatment (cyproterone acetate, 100 mg/day) for 8-41 months. Histomorphometric data were compared with those from 11 healthy men (39.6 +/- 9.4 years). There was no difference in bone volume, bone surface, or trabecular thickness between transsexuals and controls. Eroded surface and osteoclast number were not different between the groups. The osteoid volume, surface, and thickness were significantly lower in the transsexuals than in the controls. The mineral apposition rate and adjusted apposition rate were normal, but mineralizing surface and bone formation rate were suppressed in the transsexuals compared with data reported from the literature. The results indicate that antiandrogen and estrogen treatment in male-to-female transsexuals may suppress bone turnover and is not associated with bone loss. PMID- 2530805 TI - [Hydrolase activity in the human kidney during embryonic and fetal development]. PMID- 2530806 TI - The amount of main cannabinoid substances in hemp, cultivated for industrial fibre production and their changes in the course of one vegetation period. AB - The presented study followed the quantitative amount of main cannabinoid substances in Czechoslovak hemp, variety Rastislavice, cultivated for industrial fibre production, in the course of the vegetation period of the year 1985. The hemp samples were collected for analysis in 17 various vegetation stages of the plant growth and they were treated both in fresh and dried state. The analyses were performed in samples of sexually undistinguished plants (7 vegetation stages), in samples of male plants (3 vegetation stages) and in samples of female plants (10 vegetation stages). The experiment resulted in the most complete study of the Czechoslovak variety of hemp from the point of view of extractibility of substances, as well as of the amount of CBD and delta 9-THC. PMID- 2530807 TI - Effect of some sugars on the growth and differentiation of MCF-7 cells: I. Detection of glycosylative changes using lectin histochemistry. AB - The effects of lactose, L-fucose, and D-glucose on differentiation and glycosylation of MCF-7 cells from human mammary cancer were tested. For determination of glycosylation, six lectins with various binding specificity were used. The cells cultivated in the medium with D-glucose alone showed the best growth. The cells growing in the medium with L-fucose displayed, at the beginning growth acceleration which was followed by a rapid onset of necrotization. A decreased content of D-glucose usually resulted in an accelerated differentiation and a more pronounced secretory activity of cells. Expression of binding sites for lectins PNA and WGA was higher in cultures with elevated proliferation and reduced differentiation, DBA bound better the cells cultivated in the presence of lactose, lectins Con A and RCA60 in the presence of L-fucose. The UEA-1 showed only minimal affinity for MCF-7 cells. The majority of lectins showed an increased binding ability to secretory vacuoles and vesicles in the presence of L fucose. The results obtained support the hypothesis that cell differentiation is associated with various stages of glycosylation and that the type of sugar in the medium can significantly affect glycosylation and differentiation processes. PMID- 2530808 TI - Lectin histochemistry in the estradiol stimulated and nonstimulated MCF-7 cells. AB - Six lectins were investigated for their binding affinity to MCF-7 cells stimulated and non-stimulated by estradiol. Except UEA-7 and Con A, all lectins (PNA, DBA, RCA60, WGA) showed the prevalent binding affinity to cytoplasm of polygonal cells in the centre of colonies. These cells differentiated more rapidly in non-stimulated cultures and intensity of their staining depended on cultivation time. The UEA-1 showed a weak binding capability which indicates that L-fucose is not a terminal sugar in glycoconjugates. Some other findings suggest that terminal expression of L-fucose can be regulated by other steroids. Con A bound all cells and was independent on estradiol stimulation. PMID- 2530810 TI - Demonstration of cysteine proteinase inhibitors ACPI and NCPI in breast cancer and in cell lines MCF-7 and ZR-75-1. AB - The samples of breast cancer and cell lines MCF-7 and ZR-75-1 were tested for the occurrence of cysteine proteinase inhibitors ACPI and NCPI. Further, the influence of estradiol on the expression of these inhibitors was examined. Both the tested inhibitors were found in tumor cells and in cell lines. Moreover, the positivity was found also in the connective tissue, especially in the vicinity of dysplastic changes and normal lobules. The expression of both the inhibitors can be regulated by estrogens. The data indicate a possible connection of NCPI expression with the regulation of cell proliferation and ACPI with cellular differentiation. The role of these inhibitors in invasive processes and metastases is not clear so far. PMID- 2530809 TI - Glycosylation in human colorectal mucosa during tumor development studied by lectins. AB - The panel of six lectins was used for demonstration of glycosylative changes in the hyperplastic, adenomatous and carcinomatous mucosa of large bowel. The obtained results were rather heterogeneous with regard to lectin binding capacity in the single cases but they proved a certain uniformity of changes inside every tested group. These changes cohered with decrease of capability dysplastic and neoplastic cells to produce of normal goblets and with loss of cell polarity. Possible causes of these alterations are discussed. PMID- 2530811 TI - Effect of the localization of recording electrode on the auditory brain stem responses in healthy subjects. AB - In a group of 24 healthy people acoustic brain stem responses (ABR) were simultaneously recorded from different regions of the scalp. Evaluation of latencies and amplitudes individual ABR waves has shown that their average latency is longer and the amplitude is higher in records from electrodes above the right half of the scalp, regardless of which ear was stimulated. PMID- 2530812 TI - The possibilities of clinical application of physostigmine. AB - A survey of experimental studies dealing with physostigmine in the course of seventeen years is completed by authors' own experience with physostigmine application in practice. PMID- 2530813 TI - Time degradation of chromatic temperature characteristics thermographic sheets applied in actual Czechoslovak medical practice. AB - The study deals with time degradation changes of chromatic temperature characteristics and chromatically active temperature intervals of LC thermochromic sheets of inland provenance. The method applied is relatively simple, gives quite reproducible results and can be utilized for verification of chromatic temperature characteristics of thermographic sheets in medical establishments. As far as the application of thermographic LC sheets in medicine is concerned, the results obtained in this study describe the time degradation of the most important thermooptic quality of thermochromic sheets of Czechoslovak origin, applied in surface thermography. PMID- 2530814 TI - [Radiation burden in children in roentgenologic and radionuclide examinations of the urinary tract]. AB - Employing own measurements, calculations and literary data the values of the effective dose equivalent were determined for one-year-old and five-year-old children as well as adults undergoing intravenous urography, cystography, scintigraphy of kidneys and renography. It is stated that the radiation burden of five-year old children from x-ray examinations is comparable with the radiation burden due to scintigraphic examinations of kidneys by means of 99mTc-DTPA, 99mTc gluconate and 99mTc-DMSA. The effective dose equivalent from scintigraphic examinations of children aged one year is an order of magnitude higher than that from x-ray examinations mentioned. The effective dose equivalent for adults from urography exceeds an order of magnitude the value of this quantity from scintigraphy by means of 99mTc-gluconate or 99mTc-DTPA. The results are presented in tables and graphs. PMID- 2530815 TI - Application of ELISA method to determine antigliadin antibodies in children with coeliac disease. AB - The application of the ELISA method to the detection of antigliadin antibodies (AGA), class IgG and IgA in children with coeliac disease (CD) is described. All the patients of the group of 17 with untreated CD and another group of 19 with CD formerly treated and now gluten exposed show elevated AGA values. The group of 14 CD patients permanently treated with gluten free diet show AGA increase in 42.6% cases. A correlation between the advanced grades of mucosal atrophy and pathological elevated AGA IgA values is found in this group. Patients with acute CD put on gluten free diet display a faster and more marked drop of AGA IgA than AGA IgG in the course of 3 to 12 months. Higher AGA values are found for children with inflammatory bowel diseases. The control group have higher AGA values in 6.45% of instances. Due to its sensitivity (100% by the assessment of both the AGA immunoglobulins) and 93.55% specificity AGA determination represents a valuable screening test both when indicating enterobioptic examination and following the gluten free diet of CD patients. PMID- 2530816 TI - [Digitalis in the therapy of cardiac insufficiency]. PMID- 2530817 TI - [Digitalis therapy in clinical practice]. PMID- 2530818 TI - Radionuclide hepatic perfusion index and ultrasonography: assessment of portal hypertension in clinical practice. AB - The final value of portal blood flow pressure depends on the degree of vascular obstruction, then on the resistance in collateral vessels and, last, on splanchnic blood flow. The iniciating cause of portal hypertension most often lies in advancing anatomical damage leading to increased resistance and, consequently, to a reduction of portal blood flow, and simultaneous reciprocal development of extrahepatic collaterals. The determination of a true portal flow is a necessity particularly when deciding about a shunt surgery and its type, but it also supplies valuable information on the degree of portal flow restriction and, in this way, on the progress of pathophysiological changes, their extent and advance. The technique of radionuclide angiography and determination of the hepatic perfusion index (HPI) proposed by Sarper appears to be a profitable noninvasive method supplying well reproducible information on portal blood flow. Sarper proved it to be correlated with the degree of portal hypertension established by angiography. Ultrasonographic criteria of portal hypertension include dilatation of the portal vein in the region of the hilus hepatis exceeding 15 mm, and a more than 10 mm dilatation of the splenic vein above the spine. The mean HPI value obtained from the examination of 19 subjects without liver involvement was 0.6956 +/- 0.0583. The group of chronic hepatopathies included 19 patients with bioptically verified chronic hepatitis without reconstruction and/or steatosis, and 32 patients with liver cirrhosis likewise confirmed by biopsy: portosystemic shunts could be demonstrated in 14 of the latter. (ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530819 TI - Ultrasonography of primary liver carcinoma (PLC) and targetted cytologic examination. AB - A primary liver cell carcinoma was disclosed in 11 cases out of a total of 61 patients with a focal hepatic lesion. The authors investigate the diagnostic significance of abdominal ultrasonography (US) as a major diagnostic modality in early detection of PLC. It is concluded that abdominal US is an important contribution to diagnosis of hepatic lesions smaller than 1 cm in diameter. The echographic features of PLC are often unspecific thus requiring a complementary targetted cytologic examination. A short comparison of US computed tomography and liver scintigraphy is given. PMID- 2530820 TI - Angioimmunoblastic lymphadenopathy--an update. AB - Angioimmunoblastic lymphadenopathy (AILD) is a relatively rare serious disorder of the lymphatic system with various organ manifestations and a significant immunological background. It probably represents an abnormal reaction to different chemical and biological antigens. The etiopathogenesis of the disease is still poorly understood. The authors report on findings in a series of five patients with AILD. Stress is laid on polymorphous symptomatology, unpredictable course and on resulting diagnostic as well as therapeutic difficulties in dealing with the disease. PMID- 2530822 TI - Ischemic and hyperventilation tests in 28 twins. AB - We examined ischemic and hyperventilation tests in 14 pairs of healthy twins. In 3 of them we found different results of positivity or negativity of these tests. Women had signs of higher irritability of the wave M than men as concerned latency, amplitude, duration; the strength of stimulus was significantly lower in females than in males. PMID- 2530824 TI - Non-surgical synovectomy (basic principles). AB - Non-surgical synovectomy is an important therapeutical method, the spreading of which is due to intensive research in the ways of treatment, particularly in rheumatoid arthritis. Various procedures have been worked out to settle pathological changes first on the synovial membrane (synoviorthesis) by intraarticular administration of pharmacological substances. From this point of view, we report on cortisonoids, chloroquine, cytostatic drugs, pyrazolone derivates and antiproteolytic substances. Special attention is paid to osmic acid and radioactive colloids as possible. It is a matter of the physician's skill and further research to find the optimal drug for synoviorthesis so as to introduce it into the long-term and systematic therapeutical programme necessarily required by rheumatoid arthritis. PMID- 2530823 TI - Parameters of the wave M in 554 patients suspected of tetanic syndrome but with negative ischemic and hyperventilation tests. AB - We examined 554 patients with clinical suspicion of tetanic syndrome whose ischemic and hyperventilation tests were negative. We analysed the wave M before carrying out the tests with the following parameters: latency, amplitude, duration, shape and strength of stimulus. We could register higher irritability in women, in young persons, in course of years. We cannot register conspicuous changes during year seasons; the amplitude and the strength of stimulus were in middle correlation. We try to explain the significance of the polyphasic shape of the wave M where the desynchronization and repetitive activity are supposed to be the main causes. The relation between men and women was 1:2.2. Most patients were in the middle age group. PMID- 2530821 TI - Hirsutism--a low dose spironolactone therapy. AB - Total testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, prolactin and estradiol were assayed in 78 women, clinically divided into idiopathic hirsutism (I. H.)-17 women and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCO) - 61 women, with the latter group having menstrual irregularity dating almost back to the menarche. The serum testosterone measurement was found to be not sensitive in detecting abnormalities in testosterone production. Only 24 (39%) of the women with polycystic ovary syndrome and 5 (29%) of the women with idiopathic hirsutism had elevated serum testosterone. In statistical analysis the serum testosterone was greater (P less than 0.05) in women with polycystic ovary syndrome without hirsutism than in idiopathic hirsutism and PCO with hirsutism. There were not significant differences between the mean levels of prolactin, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate and estradiol. Twelve women, with hirsutism, were treated with low dose spironolactone (75 mg daily) for six months. There was an excellent clinical response in 7 (58%), incomplete response in one, no response in 4 women. Two patients dropped out of the trial because of ineffectiveness of the therapy after three months. Side effects were not major problem. Spironolactone caused statistically significant reduction in testosterone values after 6 months of treatment. Our results demonstrate that low-dose spironolactone is effective in the treatment of hirsutism. PMID- 2530825 TI - [The importance of Krypto-Haem in the detection of colorectal carcinoma]. PMID- 2530826 TI - [The causes and frequency of orbital diseases in patients hospitalized at the Eye Clinic of the Medical School Hospital in Olomouc 1982-1986]. PMID- 2530827 TI - [Employment of patients after keratoplasty]. PMID- 2530828 TI - Diabetic maculopathy and cataract extraction. AB - In 20 diabetic patients with diabetic retinopathy, we followed up the development of diabetic maculopathy after extraction. In 65% of the cases, the arisal or progression of the present macular edema was recorded 2 months after extraction together with a visual impairment. In 4 of them, the visual acuity adjusted itself within 10 months. The cause of this phenomenon may be traction of the vitreous body on the retina or the change in the hemodynamic conditions in the retina after cataract extraction. Since an improvement in the visual acuity occurs only in 30% of the involved eyes, it is recommended to apply the photocoagulation treatment on arisal or deepening of the edema. PMID- 2530829 TI - Diabetic maculopathy and glaucoma. AB - Our group of 200 with laser treated diabetics included 5 patients (2.5%) with bilaterally treated primary simple glaucoma. All of them had diabetic maculopathy exclusively within the range of simple diabetic retinopathy. The focal type of maculopathy occurred 5 times, the cystoid 3 times, the ischemic once. There was emphasized the necessity to devote increased care to diabetics with glaucoma because for them glaucoma represents a risk factor regarding the further development of the visual function and the extent of the visual field. On the other hand, the decreased foveolar sensitivity in some diabetics with glaucoma may reduce the visual acuity which thus becomes an unreliable criterion of the success of the laser therapy. PMID- 2530830 TI - Smokers and diabetic maculopathy. AB - Of 200 examined diabetic patients with diabetic maculopathy there were 27 smokers, 23 of them diabetics of type II. In comparison with the control group of 23 diabetics with diabetic maculopathy-nonsmokers, the smokers showed a significantly higher incidence of the ischemic type of diabetic maculopathy which, however, did not manifest itself more markedly in their visual acuity. PMID- 2530831 TI - Treatment of perimacular proliferations in diabetic ophthalmopathy with fluorouracil. AB - Five eyes from 4 diabetic patients with proliferations perimacularly were treated with fluorouracil after previous unsuccessful treatment with laser therapy. Fluorouracil was administered in two series of five injections each, every second day in daily doses of 10 to 15 mg subconjunctivally. Fluorouracil was well tolerated. It has a certain inhibitory effect (both on vessels and particularly on the formation of the accompanying fibers) on proliferations reaching the macula at a distance from the vessels out of reach of the visual disc, it has no suppressing effect on papilloretinal proliferations. PMID- 2530832 TI - [The effect of laser irradiation on fibroblasts in wound regeneration]. PMID- 2530833 TI - [Tonsillectomy in allergic patients]. PMID- 2530834 TI - [Ultrastructural changes in the the cilia of the respiratory epithelium of the nasal mucosa in allergic rhinitis]. PMID- 2530835 TI - [Possibilities of using biophysical methods of investigation (superweak radiation of tissues) in the ORL area]. AB - Modern biophysical methods allow an insight into the cell metabolism in healthy and in pathological states. With the help of special instruments for measurements of superweak, spontaneous metabolic radiation, we have measured the bioluminiscence of various tissue samples from the ORL region. The energy for superweak radiation is provided by the process of non-fermentative oxidation of tissue lipids, the intensity of superweak radiation is directly related to the intensity of oxidation. Superweak radiation is inherent to all the tissues of the organism but it does not show a direct relationship to the intensity of cell division. The wave lengths of superweak radiation are 360-800 nm on the visible range of the electromagnetic spectrum. We found that the intensity of radiation differs with the various types of pathological changes in tissues. On the basis of the results of our studies, we tried to determine the partical utilization of measurements of superweak radiation of tissue samples from the ORL region. The measurements will be useful to make the indication for tonsillectomy more precise and to determine the biological activity of malignomas. PMID- 2530836 TI - Our experience with surgical management of myasthenia gravis. AB - The authors' own experience obtained from surgical management of the myasthenia gravis in the First Department of Surgery, Teaching Hospital, Palacky University in Olomouc, within 1963 to 1985 are analyzed. The total of 50 operations on the thymus were performed in this period. Five myasthenics were operated on. Four of them had the thymoma associated with MG, one had no thymoma either prior to or during the surgery. Once the MG was associated with a benign thymoma, three times with a malignant thymoma. All the thymomas could be radically extirpated. The late results of the treatment are given. Some more recent examination methods are evaluated. The conclusion sums up the results of surgical MG management, indication to operation and its tactics stressing the necessity of complex multidisciplinary care of MG patients. PMID- 2530837 TI - [Diagnosis and therapy of enthesiopathy of the radial humeral condyle]. AB - According to a detailed analysis of the etiology and pathomorphology of the s.c. "tennis elbow" or radial epicondylitis, only the name enthesopathy (disturbances of the tendinous insertion to bone) can be used. The authors describe the detailed diagnostics of the enthesopathy itself, with multifactorial etiology of disturbances in the insertion of the forearm extensors, the joint capsule, synovium and radial head chondropathy; further the second most common cause, the s.c. supinator syndrome as a tunnel syndrome of the interosseous nerve. The complex pharmaceutical and physical therapy of these syndromes is also mentioned, with special reference to operative treatment. In the operative treatment of radial enthesopathy Boyd's modified operation is preferred; in the supinator syndrome a deliberation of the nerve through a partial decision of the supinator muscle. The excellent results of the operations, where in 101 patients in 2 groups there was only 1 recurrence, serve as prove of an exact diagnosis and adequate operative treatment. PMID- 2530838 TI - Experience with the treatment of mandibular fractures. AB - Mandibular fractures belong to the most frequent injuries of the facial skeleton. The present study is a report on 770 patients treated from 1977 to 1986 at the Third Clinic of Stomatology with special regard to healing complications and their causes. PMID- 2530839 TI - Possibilities of shortening intermaxillary fixation by closed treatment of mandibular fractures. AB - The author's own method, making it possible to shorten substantially intermaxillary fixation while preserving all its principal advantages, was used to treat 252 patients with fractures of the dentulous mandible. After two weeks' intermaxillary fixation 134 fractures of the mandibular body and angle were fixed with a combination of Sauer's and occlusal splints, lingual splints or periangular wires according to Petz. This method shortened the treatment of the selected group of patients by the mean one week. PMID- 2530840 TI - Concerning the results of the initial examination of individuals who have undergone periodontal surgery. AB - The results of initial examination of 1,021 patients (460 men and 561 women), admitted for the periodontal surgical treatment during the time period of 5 years at the periodontal department of the 1st Clinic of Stomatology in Olomouc, were retrospectively evaluated from the records in out-patients' clinical notes. The results are essentially in accordance with the generally acknowledged conclusions of epidemiological studies with the only difference consisting in the finding that in this specific group of patients the oral hygiene did not deteriorate with increasing age. From the point of view of the necessity of periodontal surgical treatment the men and women in the age groups between 30 and 39 years have been identified as individuals at the highest risk. PMID- 2530841 TI - The influence of paranoic parents on the education of children. AB - The influence of paranoic parents on the education of children is often discovered during the expertise - examinations. These problems are not so simple. There are some intersteps of parent's influences on the children: from natural to pathological one. The children who are exposed to the influences of paranoic parents are strongly influenced by them; the child gets an emotional uncertainty and this can happen a negative effect on his personality. PMID- 2530842 TI - Body mass indices based on the chest diameters. AB - There is a series of indices used in the physical anthropology by means of which human body mass is related to some dimensions or functions of dimensions of the skeleton. Physical dimension of these indices is that of the density - in the lengths, surfaces or volumes. Among those functions also the cylinder is considered the height of which coincides with that of the body and the circumference of which is the same as the chest circumference. Main advantage of the chest circumference to use is the simplicity of its measurement by means of the tape easy to apply; disadvantage is that chest circumference is not the purely skeletal dimension. Skeleton cylinder of this kind can be defined also through the procedure where chest circumference is substituted by the transversal and sagittal diameter of the chest. In the paper body mass indices have been introduced based on these chest diameters, the formulas derived of the adequate body mass prediction and those for the computation of overweight as well. Applicability of the formulas derived theoretically has been verified in some particular cases. PMID- 2530843 TI - Aetiology of onychomycosis and tinea unguium. PMID- 2530844 TI - [Osteoarthrosis]. AB - The locomotor system, especially its functional important areas, joints and spinal column, undergo degenerative changes of various range during the age and owing to endo- and exogenous factors. Osteoarthrosis affects peripheral joints, spondylosis and spondylo-arthrosis affect axial skeletal joints. The problem of osteoarthrosis becomes actual both owing to the increasing incidence of this illness and in the connection with the prolongation of human life. The problem of osteo-arthrosis is significant all over the world. That's why the attention is devoted to this illness from the point of view of etiology, pathogenetic mechanisms and pathologic morphology. A special attention is devoted to joint's medium. We deal with clinical signs, diagnostic possibilities and therapeutic principles. We emphasize the necessity of complex treatment and we report its single parts. In this connection we emphasize psychological and sociological aspects of the access to the patient with this serious chronic illness. Last but not least we deal with osteoarthrosis as the economic and social problems. PMID- 2530845 TI - [Development of a moral consciousness in medical schools]. AB - In the conditions of developed socialism, changes in social consciousness are also reflected in one of its forms - the morals. The problems of moral education as an inseparable part of communist education is coming to the foreground. It plays its role in all the stages of the education system, having its unsubstitutable place also in the conditions of universities and technical colleges, the faculties of medicine not excluding. It is its task to form the personality of the student and graduate, to make them, among others, acquire the moral codex of a builder of communism (habits of moral behaviour in professional activities - medical ethics). Such crucial situations must be found that are of cardinal importance for the formation of the medical student's moral profile (transition from the secondary school to university, entering the clinic, meeting the patient, running health institutions, positive and negative influences in the health service). The student must live the moral situation, obtain the experience from moral acting on his own self and be an active participant in the events creating his moral qualities, primarily in collective conditions. We stress the necessity of engagement - mobilisation of students to all-round social activities, connection of the theoretical findings of marxist ethics with their particular problems and actual activities. A special accent is laid on the method of personal example, the moral example of the university teacher himself, in the first place his authority based on all the progressive components of his personality.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530846 TI - Cell wall of Candida albicans as a factor of pathogenicity. AB - The method of chemiluminiscence monitoring of oxygenous radicals was used for evaluation of human polymorphonuclear leukocytes activated by (1) intact cells of Candida albicans, (2) polysaccharide fraction of C. albicans cell walls. The results indicate that polysaccharide fraction of the cell wall activates the metabolic burst of PMN leukocytes as intact yeast cells and releases oxygenous radicals that play an important role in the origin of inflammatory response. The findings obtained allow to characterize polysaccharide fraction of cell walls as a significant pathogenic feature of C. albicans. PMID- 2530847 TI - Ketoconazole-resistant mutants of Microsporum gypseum. I. Isolation of mutants, biochemical methods. AB - The ketoconazole-resistant mutants were isolated from four strains of the dermatophyte Microsporum gypseum. The frequency of spontaneous mutants ranged within 10(-8) to 10(-9) (per spore and nucleus). The method was established for obtaining the spontaneous mutants manifested as the faster growing sectors. By means of mutagenic effect of UV radiation, the frequency of mutants increased by one order. The method used for determination of ergosterol the biosynthesis of which could be associated with the mechanism of resistance to ketoconazole is described and evaluated. PMID- 2530848 TI - Ketoconazole-resistant mutants of Microsporum gypseum. II. Characteristics of mutants. AB - The presented study deals with the properties of two wild strains of dermatophyte Microsporum gypseum and of eleven mutants resistant to ketoconazole. The growth rate of spontaneous mutants is greater than that of the wild strain, the group of UV-induced mutants manifests in general lower growth rate. The resistance level varies in the interval 1.1-1.6 (spontaneous mutants), resp. 2.7-5.5 (UV-induced mutants). The phenomenon of cross-resistance to other imidazole drugs (miconazole, clotrimazole) has been observed in mutants. There is further given the characteristic of ergosterol synthesis influence by the three used antifungal drugs. The data obtained are discussed from the point of view of possible biochemical processes resulting in the formation of resistance to ketoconazole. PMID- 2530849 TI - Enzyme histochemistry in the developing suprarenal gland of human embryos. AB - The localization of the activities of some selected phosphatases, peptidases and dehydrogenases were studied in cryostat sections of the developing anlage of the suprarenal gland of human embryos from 8 to 20 weeks of the intra-uterine life. In the youngest fetuses under our notice (weeks 8-12), the activity of alkaline phosphatase (AP) on the cellular membranes of the fetal cortex was very low. In contrast, the activity of acid phosphatase (AcP) was comparatively high. Peak activity was found in the cells of the central zone of the fetal cortex. Compared to the activity of the latter, the activity of non-specific esterase (ANE) was somewhat lower. Both its localization and the gradient were identical with those of acid phosphatase. Of the peptidases studied, only dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP IV) exhibited slight activity in deeper layers of the primitive fetal cortex after week 8. The other peptidases exhibited only traces of activity. As early as in the first stages followed, the activity of glycero-3-phosphate-dehydrogenase (alpha-GPDH) was very high in all cells of the differentiating fetal cortex. The intensity of the activity of succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) was markedly lower. In older fetuses (weeks 13-20) there was a gradual increase in the activities of most enzymes, seen, after week 15 of the intrauterine life, also in the cells of the so-called definitive cortex. Most pronounced were the increases in the activities of acid phosphatase and non-specific esterase. The relatively low activities of the enzymes under study point to a relatively low degree of cell differentiation of both the primitive and, after week 15, the definitive cortex. Pronounced morphological and functional changes occur after the 20th week of the intrauterine life. PMID- 2530850 TI - Tumor-infiltrating cells and their possible prognostic significance. AB - 1. The introduction presents the most important recent knowledge of tumor immunity. All the known concepts of tumor-infiltrating cells are summarized including the historical background of stromal reaction. Its possible significance in an assessment of prognosis of cancer patients is emphasized. 2. The method of evaluation of this reaction in bioptic preparations is proposed and verified in seven series of carcinomas. The evaluation was directed to quantity, quality and topography of tumor-infiltrating cells. The method is recommended to routine practice for rapid performance, easy applicability, and reproducibility. 3. Cell reaction was evaluated by standard methods in carcinoma of the oral cavity, stomach, larynx, lung, breast, uterine cervix, and kidney. Individual parameters of cell reaction were confronted with clinical data on survival of patients with the aim to determine the possibilities and limits of interpretation of this reaction as a useful prognostic marker. 4. A special attention has been paid to the role of mast cells infiltrating tumors in the course of cancerogenesis in both experimental and human systems. The changes of individual parameters of reaction of tumor-infiltrating cells after regional chemotherapy were studied. Application of histochemical enzymatic reactions in identification of tumor-infiltrating cells is also reported. 5. The final chapter appraises further prospects of the investigation of tumor-infiltrating cells. The factors affecting the variability of this reaction, mechanisms of interactions between tumor-infiltrating cells and the tumor, and utilization of immunohistologic methods employing monoclonal antibodies are discussed. PMID- 2530851 TI - Methods of isolation and determination of isoquinoline alkaloids. AB - Common procedure of isolation of isoquinoline alkaloids and the novel separation techniques are discussed and exemplified. The methods used for determination of isoquinoline alkaloids are reviewed, including GC, HPLC, TLC, immunochemical methods and some special techniques. The selected examples of applications are included. PMID- 2530852 TI - Human T cell receptor gamma delta structure. PMID- 2530853 TI - Interleukin-1 induced T-lymphocyte proliferation and its relation to IL-1 receptors. PMID- 2530854 TI - Transcriptional regulation of immunoglobulin heavy chain and T-cell receptor beta chain genes. AB - We have identified factors that bind to functionally important regions in IgH chain promoters and enhancer. One promoter factors is identical to u-EBP-E, an enhancer binding protein. Several promoter-binding proteins are present preferentially in either B cells or fibroblasts although most enhancer-binding proteins have a ubiquitous distribution. Additional characterization of these factors will further our understanding of the mechanisms by which IgH promoters and enhancers interact to achieve B-cell restricted and developmental stage specific expression of IgH genes. The identification of a TCR beta chain enhancer will allow us to pursue similar questions with respect to the regulated expression this locus. PMID- 2530855 TI - Regulation of immunoglobin E biosynthesis. PMID- 2530856 TI - Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty in elderly patients: a comparison with younger patients. AB - Twenty-nine patients of 287 undergoing percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) were over 65 years old. These patients, mean age 67.2 years, were compared with 258 younger patients who had a mean age of 52.6 years. The primary success rate was 76% for the older and 79% for the younger patients. The rates for vessel occlusion, myocardial infarction, emergency surgery, and restenosis were similar in the two groups. When vessel occlusion occurred the results were more serious in the elderly and led to a fatality of 7%, compared with 0.4% for the younger patients. At 6 months' follow-up, 69% of those over 65 and 74% of those under 65 showed improvement in anginal symptoms. PTCA in older patients has similar immediate and short-term results to those in younger patients. However if complications occur, older patients have a higher fatality rate. PMID- 2530857 TI - [Biochemical and immunological properties of 34kDa EDTA-extractable protein (EEP34k)]. AB - It has been reported that the 34kDa protein of EDTA-extractable protein (EEP34k) cross-reacted with lipocortin antisera. The lipocortins are a family of proteins that have been reported to inhibit phospholipase A2. Previously, we purified two proteins from EEP34k by anion-exchange chromatography, and referred to them as 34k (A) and 34k (B). On Western-blot analysis, two proteins showed cross reactivity to both lipocortin I and lipocortin II. In this study, four proteins (34k (A)1, 34k (A)2, 34k (B)1, 34k (B)2) were isolated from 34k (A) and 34k (B), on a cation-exchanged chromatography. By peptide mapping, immunological analysis and SDS/PAGE, we confirmed that 34k (A)1 and 34k (B)2 were identified proteins and these were called lipocortin I, and that 34k (A)2 was lipocortin II. It is concluded that at least two lipocortins, I and II are present in EEP34k. We also observed the presence of phospholipase A2 inhibitory activity in both 34k (A) and 34k (B). PMID- 2530858 TI - Transluminal angioplasty in patients with bilateral renal artery stenosis or renal artery stenosis in a solitary functioning kidney. AB - Renal angioplasty in patients with bilateral renal artery stenosis or with renal artery stenosis in a solitary functioning kidney has been thought to be relatively contraindicated. We report the results of renal artery angioplasty in 18 patients, 10 with severe bilateral renal artery stenosis and eight with severe renal artery stenosis in a solitary kidney. Twenty-five (89%) of 28 angioplasties were successful, with a mean improvement of the degree of stenosis from 85% to 18% after angioplasty and a restoration of renal blood flow. A significant drop in mean blood pressure at admission of 187/101 mm Hg to 154/87 mm Hg at discharge, 152/86 mm Hg at 3-month, and 146/82 mm Hg at 1-year follow-up was seen. Because of the decrease in blood pressure, 11 of the patients decreased or stopped taking diuretics and 15 decreased or stopped taking antihypertensive medications. Although no significant change in renal function was found by measuring mean serum creatinine levels over time, no patient had an elevated serum creatinine level at follow-up, indicating preservation of renal function. One major complication, cholesterol embolization to the bowel, was seen. Our results suggest that angioplasty is an acceptable treatment of hypertension in patients with bilateral renal artery stenosis or renal artery stenosis in a single kidney. PMID- 2530860 TI - Modulation by neurotransmitters (norepinephrine, serotonin) of the murine antibody response to autologous and heterologous erythrocytes. AB - The modulation by norepinephrine and serotonin of the persistent antibody response to autologous and heterologous erythrocytes has been studied in [(C27Bl6xCBA/Ca) F1] mice. Serotonin (subcutaneously administered) transiently decreased the response to both autologous erythrocytes and rat erythrocytes; nevertheless, inhibition of serotonin synthesis (with p-chloro-phenylalanine) barely affected the responses. The influence of norepinephrine has been investigated by (subcutaneous) administration of ephedrine (a sympathomimetic) or by neonatal sympathectomy with 6-hydroxydopamine. Neither the sympathomimetic nor the sympathectomy substantially altered the response (of adult mice) to autologous or heterologous erythrocytes. Treatment with p-chloro-phenylalanine of adult mice (which had been neonatally treated with 6-hydroxydopamine) resulted in impaired responses to both autologous and heterologous erythrocytes. On the whole, a fall in the level of norepinephrine or serotonin exerted, at most, a minor influence on the persistent antibody response to self and foreign erythrocytes, but a decrease of both amines exerted a greater influence. PMID- 2530859 TI - Monocyte function and lysozyme activity in cord blood. AB - The role of mononuclear phagocytic system in the expression of immunocompetence in human neonates has not been explored in depth. In the present study, we analysed cord blood monocytes for their ability to a) respond to chemotactic stimuli, b) phagocytize sheep erythrocytes (E) anti-E complexes for detection of Fc receptors, c) phagocytize Zy particles for detection of C3 receptors. Lysozyme activity in newborn sera was also evaluated. Blood donors served as controls. It was found that the response of neonatal cells to chemotactic stimuli as well as phagocytosis via Fc receptors was similar to those of adult monocytes. However, phagocytosis via C3 receptors was significantly lower in neonates compared to adults. Sera from newborns were significantly less potent both in generating chemotactic stimuli after incubation with a bacterial endotoxin (LPS) and in opsonizing Zy particle.s Lysosyme concentrations were significantly higher in neonatal serum samples. PMID- 2530861 TI - Regulator soluble factors of human IgE synthesis. III. "In vitro" modifications. AB - With our experience on the production and identification of low molecular weight glycoproteins in supernatants of MLC in atopic, pollen-allergic and healthy individuals and after demonstrating the changes in IgE synthesis in isolated lymphocytes of healthy individuals, we decided to amplify the study to include the effects of the allergic population group. Bidirectional mixed lymphocyte cultures were grown. Afterwards supernatants obtained from chromatography of the same affinity were processed, as described in a previous work. The second fractions derived from the MLC of atopic and pollen-allergic individuals affected IgE synthesis at both concentrations. No modifications in IgG synthesis were observed to be due to the addition of these fractions. PMID- 2530862 TI - Polymorphonuclear functions in patients with mixed connective tissue disease. AB - Polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) from 29 patients with mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) were studied "in vitro" for their phagocytic and chemotactic function as well as for granulocyte alkaline phosphatase (GAP) activity. Fc receptor expression detected by EA-rosette formation was comparable to the control. Yeast-phagocytosis, C3b-receptor mediated phagocytosis and chemotaxis of PMNs, however, significantly decreased in MCTD. At the same time, photometric measure of alkaline phosphatase activity indicated a nearly two fold increase in PMNs from patients with MCTD. Although no correlation was found between PMN functions and the activity of the disease, PMN disorders may play a role in pathogenesis of these connective tissue disorders. PMID- 2530863 TI - Stunned myocardium in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy with normal coronary arteries. PMID- 2530864 TI - Acute and sustained release of atrial natriuretic factor with acute myocardial infarction. AB - The present investigation was designed to determine if acute ischemic cardiac injury causes the release of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF). Seventeen patients with acute myocardial infarction but without clinical evidence of congestive heart failure had their circulating concentration of ANF and creatine phosphokinase monitored daily for 14 days. All 17 patients had an elevated plasma ANF concentration at time of presentation. Maximal increase in ANF was on day 2 and 3 post-infarction. This maximal increase correlated with the size of infarction estimated by the maximal creatine phosphokinase concentration (r = 0.475; p less than 0.05), but did not correlate with the amount of left ventricular dysfunction. ANF began to decrease by day 4 post-infarction and was normal at 10 days post-infarction in 14 of the 17 (82%) patients. At 12 days post infarction, all 17 patients had normal ANF levels. Another three patients with acute myocardial infarction were treated with tissue plasminogen activator (tPA). The measured ANF levels in these patients were within our normal range and were significantly lower (p less than 0.001) than those seen in patients with acute myocardial infarction not given thrombolytic therapy. Six patients with unstable angina likewise had normal circulating ANF concentrations during prolonged episodes of chest pain. These levels were also significantly lower (p less than 0.001) than the 17 patients with acute infarcts not given tPA. The distinct pattern of release of ANF may be useful as an adjunct to serum cardiac enzymes in determining if a myocardial infarction has occurred. PMID- 2530865 TI - Circadian variation in myocardial ischemia: the 24-hour antianginal effect of amlodipine. Proceedings of a symposium. Monte Carlo, Monaco, April 7, 1989. PMID- 2530866 TI - The pharmacokinetic profile of amlodipine. AB - Amlodipine, a dihydropyridine calcium antagonist, was synthesized in an attempt to develop a compound with a pharmacokinetic profile characteristic of this class, which would also have an increased oral bioavailability and extended clearance time. A single intravenous dose of 10 mg resulted in an absolute bioavailability of 64% and a calculated elimination half-life of 34 hours. The pharmacokinetic profile of oral doses showed similar changes. These results were significantly different from those seen with most other dihydropyridines (elimination half-life of 3 to 10 hours and absolute bioavailability of 10% to 30%) and nondihydropyridine calcium antagonists (elimination half-life 3 to 6 hours and low absolute bioavailability). With chronic oral dosing of amlodipine once daily for 14 days, support was provided for the linearity of amlodipine's pharmacokinetics and absence of such with chronic oral dosing with verapamil, diltiazem, and nifedipine. In the elderly population, elimination half-life of 5 mg oral doses is significantly prolonged (48 vs 35 hours; p less than 0.025) suggesting decreased oral clearance or increased bioavailability. Comparison of the pharmacokinetics of amlodipine in patients with chronic stable angina pectoris with the profile in healthy volunteers suggested that clearance is not altered in patients with chronic stable angina, steady state being reached 6 to 12 hours after administration of the drug. In patients with cirrhosis, elimination half-life is significantly prolonged (60 vs 34 hours; p less than 0.01) suggesting that there is a greater accumulation of amlodipine in patients with severe liver disease than in individuals with normal hepatic function.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530867 TI - Hemodynamic and electrophysiologic effects of amlodipine, a new long-acting calcium antagonist: preliminary observations. PMID- 2530868 TI - A hemodynamic comparison of verapamil, diltiazem, and amlodipine in coronary artery disease. PMID- 2530869 TI - Pharmacodynamics of amlodipine: hemodynamic effects and antianginal efficacy after atrial pacing. AB - The hemodynamic effects and antianginal efficacy of 10 mg amlodipine administered intravenously were assessed for 45 minutes in 18 subjects with stable angina pectoris. After amlodipine the heart rate was increased from 75 +/- 12 beats/min to 80 +/- 15 beats/min (p less than 0.05) for at least 15 minutes, with a decrease in systemic vascular resistance of 1091 +/- 205 to 815 +/- 390 dynes/sec/cm5 and a decrease in mean arterial pressure at 30 minutes from 99 +/- 11 to 91 +/- 10 (p less than 0.05). There was no change in dp/dt or dp/dt/IP or in cardiac output, wedge pressure, or pulmonary artery pressure. In the parallel placebo group (n = 8) there was no change in any of the hemodynamic parameters. Time to pacing-induced angina was increased in the treated group (n = 12) from 6 +/- 3.2 minutes before the dose to 8.2 +/- 4 minutes after the dose (p less than 0.01) compared to the control subjects who were given saline solution, in whom the time increased from 7 +/- 1.5 minutes before the dose to 7.5 +/- 2.2 minutes after the dose (n = 9). The double product at an equivalent pacing time to the initial onset of angina was reduced after therapy from 15,590 +/- 1490 to 14,100 +/- 1193 with a reduction in ST segment shift from 11.9 +/- 9.4 mm2 to 6.2 +/- 5.6 mm2 (p less than 0.05). Amlodipine after intravenous use has a vasodilator effect and also increases the anginal threshold without deleterious negative inotropic effects. PMID- 2530870 TI - Cardioprotective effects of amlodipine in the ischemic-reperfused heart. PMID- 2530871 TI - Clinical safety and efficacy of once-daily amlodipine for chronic stable angina pectoris. PMID- 2530872 TI - Efficacy and safety of amlodipine in vasospastic angina: an interim report of a multicenter, placebo-controlled trial. The Investigators of Study 160. PMID- 2530874 TI - Double-blind crossover comparison of amlodipine at three dose levels and placebo in chronic stable angina. PMID- 2530873 TI - Antiischemic properties of amlodipine, a new calcium antagonist, in patients with severe coronary artery disease: a prospective trial. PMID- 2530875 TI - A four-week double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel dose-response study of amlodipine in patients with stable exertional angina pectoris. PMID- 2530877 TI - Amlodipine in angina pectoris: effect on maximal and submaximal exercise performance. PMID- 2530876 TI - Amlodipine: a once-daily calcium antagonist in the treatment of angina pectoris- a parallel dose-response, placebo-controlled study. The Amlodipine Study Group. PMID- 2530878 TI - Amlodipine versus nadolol in patients with stable angina pectoris. PMID- 2530879 TI - Impact of age on echocardiographic left ventricular mass in a healthy population (the Framingham Study). PMID- 2530880 TI - Late ventricular dilatation in survivors of acute myocardial infarction. AB - The purpose of this study was to assess the natural course of left ventricular (LV) volumes in the convalescent phase of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Fifty-seven patients were examined 2 weeks and approximately 1 year after AMI by a radionuclide method allowing determination of absolute LV volumes. After 1 year the patients had fewer clinical and radiologic signs of heart failure, but median end-diastolic volume index had increased from 92 to 112 ml/m2 (p less than 0.001), median end-systolic volume index from 51 to 65 ml/m2 (p less than 0.001) and median stroke volume index from 39 to 47 ml/m2 (p less than 0.001). Patients with first anterior infarcts had significantly greater increases in end-diastolic volume index, end-systolic volume index and stroke volume index than patients with first inferoposterior infarcts. The increase in LV volumes was significantly greater in patients with clinical manifestations of heart failure than in those without these signs. Notably, changes in LV size had an unpredictable effect on LV ejection fraction. PMID- 2530881 TI - A symposium: Pharmacology and therapeutic considerations of amlodipine, a new 1,4 dihydropyridine calcium antagonist. November 5, 1988, Paris, France. Proceedings. PMID- 2530882 TI - Cardioprotective effects of amlodipine in the ischemic-reperfused heart. AB - Amlodipine is a dihydropyridine derivative belonging to the group of pharmacologic calcium entry blocking agents and is characterized as having a slow onset and relatively long duration of action with minimal effects on cardiac electrophysiology and myocardial contractility. The protective effect of amlodipine was studied in isolated blood-perfused feline hearts made globally ischemic for 60 minutes followed by reperfusion for 60 minutes. Ischemic-induced alterations of left ventricular developed pressure and complicance were monitored. In 11 control and 7 drug-treated hearts, amlodipine produced significant decreases in myocardial oxygen consumption (6.2 +/- 0.4 to 4.4 +/- 0.4 ml oxygen/min/100 g) and coronary vascular resistance, as assessed by changes in perfusion pressure (120 +/- 1 to 100 +/- 4 mm Hg). Amlodipine administered before the onset of global ischemia decreased the development of ischemic contracture as reflected by a progressive increase in resting left ventricular diastolic pressure. The return of contractile function, 60 minutes afer reperfusion, improved significantly in the amlodipine-treated group compared with controls, and there was better maintenance of the tissue concentration of Na+, Ca2+ and K+. A canine model of regional myocardial ischemia (90 minutes) followed by 6 hours of reperfusion was used to assess the cardioprotective effects of amlodipine, 150 micrograms/kg, administered 15 minutes before reperfusion. Infarct size, expressed as a percentage of the area at risk, was smaller in the amlodipine-treated group (n = 10) than in the control group (n = 10) (34.5 +/- 3.8% vs 45.9 +/- 2.8%, p = 0.027). Risk region size did not differ between groups and both groups were comparable with respect to the hemodynamic parameters of heart rate, blood pressure and rate-pressure product. Amlodipine prevented the gradual reduction in coronary blood flow observed in the control group. It is concluded that amlodipine reduces myocardial ischemic injury by mechanism(s) that may involve a reduction in myocardial oxygen demand as well as by positively influencing transmembrane Ca2+ fluxes during ischemia and reperfusion. PMID- 2530883 TI - Effects of amlodipine on renal hemodynamics. AB - Recently, attention has focused on the effects of calcium antagonists on renal function. When administered in vitro to the isolated perfused kidney, calcium antagonists exhibit consistent actions permitting characterization of their renal effects. Calcium antagonists do not affect the vasodilated isolated perfused kidney, but they do dramatically alter the response of the kidney to vasoconstrictor agents. This study examined the effects of the novel dihydropyridine amlodipine on the hemodynamic response of the isolated perfused kidney to angiotensin II. Amlodipine completely reversed the angiotensin II induced decrement in glomerular filtration rate of this model (0.72 +/- 0.15, 0.26 +/- 0.10 and 0.73 +/- 0.12 ml/min/g for control, angiotensin II and angiotensin II plus 0.1 microM amlodipine respectively). In contrast, amlodipine only partially restored renal perfusate flow (35.8 +/- 2.7, 14.7 +/- 1.9 and 23.7 +/- 2.5 ml/min/g for control, angiotensin II and angiotensin II plus amlodipine), thereby increasing filtration fraction. These findings are consistent with previous observations from this laboratory indicating that dihydropyridines predominantly vasodilate preglomerular renal resistance vessels and through this mechanism exert a preferential augmentation of glomerular filtration rate. PMID- 2530884 TI - Amlodipine, a new 1,4-dihydropyridine calcium antagonist with a particularly strong antihypertensive profile. AB - The effects of a new 1,4-dihydropyridine derivative amlodipine have been compared with results from our previous work. Application of amlodipine at a concentration of 1.6 X 10(-6) M to isolated guinea-pig papillary muscle for 120 minutes produced a 50% reduction in tension development compared with a concentration of 3.7 X 10(-7) M nifedipine needed to produce the same result under identical conditions. This suggests that amlodipine has even weaker negative inotropic effects than nifedipine. In isolated porcine coronary strips, the K+-induced contractions were approximately 10,000 times more sensitive to the relaxing effects of nisoldipine, nitrendipine and nicardipine than to those of papaverine, whereas nifedipine and amlodipine were 3,000 times more potent than papaverine. However, in comparison with these in vitro actions, the efficacy of amlodipine appears to be greater in vivo: Simultaneous subcutaneous injection of nifedipine (20 mg/kg) and of equimolar doses of nisoldipine and felodipine attenuated the myocardial calcium uptake by rat hearts in situ (stimulated with a single subcutaneous dose of 30 mg/kg isoproterenol) with the same efficacy, whereas the actions of nitrendipine and nimodipine were considerably weaker. In contrast, amlodipine antagonized isoproterenol-stimulated myocardial calcium accumulation more effectively. Furthermore, amlodipine exhibited a high antihypertensive potency combined with rapid onset and long duration of action: Amlodipine (10 mg/kg orally [p.o.]) reduced the blood pressure of spontaneously hypertensive rats almost to the same extent as nifedipine, nitrendipine, verapamil and felodipine administered at the much higher doses of 100 mg/kg p.o. Amlodipine (20 mg/kg/day p.o.) maintained normal blood pressure during the whole life span of Dahl-S rats (5 months), but this dose is considerably lower than that reported for other 1,4-dihydropyridines. The survival of NaCl-loaded Dahl-S rats increased from 20 to 100% after administration of amlodipine (20 mg/kg/day p.o.) over 10 weeks: The effective dose of other calcium antagonists is approximately 5 times higher, but well tolerated as, e.g., demonstrated in long-term studies on Dahl-S rats with nitrendipine over 12 months. Increases in systemic arteriolar tone can be visualized in the ocular fundus of spontaneously hypertensive rats. After amlodipine (10 mg/kg p.o.) arteriolar spasm declines. Prophylaxis with 2 doses of 20 mg/kg amlodipine daily in NaCl-loaded Dahl-S rats abolished the macroscopic and histologic changes that are normally seen in branches of the mesenteric artery. With use of electron microscopy, calcium accumulation in the lamina elastica interna was demonstrated by the potassium-pyr-oantimonate technique.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2530885 TI - Relaxation of potassium chloride-induced contractions by amlodipine and its interaction with the 1,4-dihydropyridine-binding site in pig coronary artery. AB - Amlodipine is a light-insensitive and water soluble 1,4-dihydropyridine with prolonged vasodilatory action and plasma half-life. To determine whether the vasodilatory action of amlodipine is due to inhibition of voltage-dependent Ca2+ influx through the calcium channel, its effects on KCl-induced contraction of pig coronary artery rings and its interaction with the 1,4-dihydropyridine binding site in isolated sarcolemmal membranes were studied. The contractile function of artery rings was studied in an organ bath system, and the interaction with the 1,4-dihydropyridine binding site was studied in isolated sarcolemmal membranes of pig coronary artery using [3H](+)PN200-110 as a radioligand. Amlodipine, (+)PN200 110 and (-)PN200-110 inhibited KCl-induced contractions of arterial rings in a dose-dependent manner. The half-maximal inhibition (IC50) was observed at 0.46 +/ 0.02, 36 +/- 8 and 55 +/- 9 nM of (+)PN200-110, (-)PN200-110 and amlodipine, respectively. [3H](+)PN200-110 was found to bind to isolated sarcolemmal membranes with high affinity (KD = 0.04 nM, Bmax = 312 fmoles/mg protein) and stereospecifically, (+)PN200-110 (Ki = 0.05 nM) having about 130-fold higher affinity than (-)PN200-110 (Ki = 6.61 nM). Amlodipine also inhibited [3H](+)PN200 110 binding with high affinity (Ki = 4.41 nM). The inhibition was characterized by an increase in KD of binding of [3H](+)PN200-110 with very little effect on Bmax. The order of relative potency of inhibition of KCl-induced contraction was almost identical to the order of relative affinity for the 1,4-dihydropyridine binding site, as indicated by Ki.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530886 TI - Inhibition by amlodipine of activity evoked in isolated human coronary arteries by endothelin, prostaglandin F2 alpha and depolarization. AB - Amlodipine, a dihydropyridine calcium antagonist has been examined on the rhythmic activity of isolated human coronary arteries. Amlodipine inhibited both the spontaneous rhythmic activity and the rhythmic activity evoked by prostaglandin F2 alpha and endothelin in isolated human coronary arteries. It also inhibited the contraction evoked by potassium depolarization. The action of amlodipine was characterized by slow onset and voltage dependency. PMID- 2530887 TI - Amlodipine pretreatment and the ischemic heart. AB - Amlodipine is a long-acting dihydropyridine-based Ca2+ channel blocker, developed for use on a once-daily basis. Experiments using hearts from amlodipine pretreated rats were undertaken to further test the hypothesis that Ca2+ channel blockers can be used as prophylactic therapy to reduce the severity of the mechanical and biochemical consequences of ischemia and reperfusion. Amlodipine was given intravenously, 0.25 mg/kg, 5 hours before excising the hearts. Ischemia (global) was induced at 37 degrees C for 10, 30 or 60 minutes, and was followed by reperfusion. Protection was quantitated in terms of functional recovery, adenosine triphosphate and creatine phosphate retention, tissue acidosis and Ca2+ gain. The results show that amlodipine pretreatment supplied protection, provided that the ischemic episode did not exceed 30 minutes. The protection resulted in improved recovery of peak developed tension on reperfusion, reduced Ca2+ gain, retention of tissue adenosine triphosphate and creatine phosphate, and reduced acidosis. PMID- 2530888 TI - Hemodynamic and electrophysiologic effects of amlodipine, a new calcium channel blocker. AB - The effects of amlodipine (300 micrograms/kg administered intravenously), a new, long-acting, dihydropyridine class, calcium channel blocking drug, were studied in atrially paced (120 beats/min), autonomically blocked dogs. Hemodynamic and electrophysiologic parameters were measured before and up to 3 hours after amlodipine. Coronary blood flow was significantly increased 10 and 30 minutes after drug administration, whereas cardiac output and mean arterial pressure were unaffected. Coronary vascular resistance was decreased but total systemic vascular resistance did not change. Atrioventricular (AV) nodal conduction was slightly prolonged, as reflected by increases in atrial-His bundle and AV conduction times and PR interval, 30 minutes after administration. All parameters returned toward their control values within 3 hours after drug administration. Comparison of coronary vascular resistance and AV conduction changes with those previously reported for other calcium channel blocking drugs where autonomic blockade existed suggests that at equivalent levels of coronary vasodilation, amlodipine's effects more closely resemble the effects of diltiazem or verapamil than other dihydropyridines. PMID- 2530889 TI - Amlodipine, a long-acting calcium antagonist drug reduces ischemia-induced ventricular conduction delay in pig hearts. AB - The effects of amlodipine, a novel, long-lasting calcium channel blocking agent, on ischemia-induced myocardial conduction delay was studied in anesthetized pigs paced at a constant heart rate. Acute coronary occlusion (3 minutes) significantly lengthened time to onset, time to peak and duration of bipolar electrograms recorded from both subendocardial and subepicardial left ventricular sites. After intravenous injection of amlodipine (0.3 mg/kg, n = 6), subsequent periods of ischemia greatly reduced (p less than 0.01) all indexes of subepicardial conduction delay. In the subendocardium, amlodipine decreased only time to onset (-25 +/- 4%, p less than 0.01) within the ischemic zone. Significant delays in all indexes were present during repeated ischemic periods in the placebo-treated control group (n = 5). Amlodipine also increased regional myocardial blood flow within the nonischemic myocardium by 25 +/- 10% and decreased mean aortic pressure by 7 +/- 2% without altering flow in the ischemic region. Left atrial pressure remained unchanged. Indexes of ischemia-induced conduction delay were more rapidly restored after reperfusion in amlodipine pretreated than in control animals. In conclusion, amlodipine produced a beneficial blood flow-independent effect on ischemia-induced injury potentials. The effect may help to reduce the likelihood of development of lethal ventricular arrhythmias in the early stage of myocardial ischemia in the clinical setting. PMID- 2530890 TI - Protection of regional mechanics and mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation by amlodipine in transiently ischemic myocardium. AB - The effects of amlodipine (0.3 mg/kg administered intravenously, n = 5) and placebo (n = 5) on recovery of myocardial function and respiration of isolated mitochondria were examined in "stunned" myocardium of normotensive pentobarbital anesthetized dogs. Measures of myocardial wall motion, using sonomicrometers, and tissue blood flow, by radioactive microspheres, were obtained at baseline, 15 minutes after administration of amlodipine or placebo, after 10 minutes of left circumflex artery ligation and at 60 minutes of reperfusion. Mean aortic pressure decreased from 115 +/- 6 to 101 +/- 5 mm Hg after administration of amlodipine and remained decreased throughout the experiment. Heart rate was not significantly affected at any time. Both groups showed similar degrees of ischemia: elevation of ST segment to 4.7 +/- 1.4 vs 6.2 +/- 1.9 mV; reduction of ischemic zone shortening fraction to 0.6 +/- 1.9 vs -3.4 +/- 2.7%; and reduction of epicardial and endocardial blood flows (epicardial = 40 +/- 13 vs 43 +/- 13 ml/100 g/min; endocardial = 7 +/- 4 vs 13 +/- 6 ml/100 g/min [values for amlodipine vs placebo]). Mitochondrial state 3 rate of respiration and respiratory control index indicative of rate of adenosine triphosphate synthesis and membrane integrity in myocardial samples taken after 10 minutes of ischemia were significantly reduced in the placebo but not in the amlodipine group. Myocardial function showed significantly greater improvement in amlodipine vs placebo at 60 minutes of reperfusion as indicated by shortening fraction (17.7 +/ -1.4 vs 5.8 +/- -3.5%, amlodipine vs placebo), which may have been related to increased myocardial blood flow and decreased blood pressure during reperfusion. Thus, amlodipine pretreatment prevented mitochondrial dysfunction during ischemia and accelerated recovery of both myocardial mechanical function and blood flow when compared with placebo. PMID- 2530891 TI - Effects of amlodipine on myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in dogs. AB - The effects of the dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker amlodipine on subendocardial segment shortening (%SS), regional myocardial blood flow, myocardial high-energy phosphate levels and tissue water content were compared with those of a saline-treated group of barbital-anesthetized dogs subjected to a 45-minute coronary artery occlusion followed by 60 minutes of reperfusion. Saline or amlodipine (200 micrograms/kg administered intravenously) was given 15 minutes before coronary occlusion. There were no significant differences between groups in ischemic bed size or hemodynamics although dP/dt was higher after amlodipine administration. Subepicardial collateral blood flow was higher in the amlodipine group during coronary occlusion. After occlusion, %SS in the ischemic region was markedly decreased in both series and passive systolic lengthening resulted. Despite similar decreases in %SS during occlusion, the amlodipine-treated dogs showed a marked improvement in myocardial segment function of the ischemic reperfused region throughout 60 minutes of reperfusion compared with saline treated dogs. In addition, amlodipine prevented the rebound increase in phosphocreatine and attenuated the loss of adenine nucleotides and increase in tissue water in the ischemic reperfused area at 60 minutes of reperfusion. These results suggest that amlodipine has a favorable effect on the functional and metabolic recovery of the ischemic reperfused myocardium and may have potential as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of coronary artery disease. The mechanism of action of amlodipine in this model is unknown but may be partially related to a drug-induced increase in coronary collateral blood flow or a decrease in afterload. PMID- 2530893 TI - Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy as a cause of massive cardiomegaly (greater than 1,000 g). PMID- 2530892 TI - Effects of atenolol on left ventricular hypertrophy and early left ventricular function in essential hypertension. AB - Echocardiographic studies of left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy indicate clinical benefits of antihypertensive therapy. Therefore, M-mode and Doppler techniques were used to assess changes in LV hypertrophy after 10, 30 and 50 weeks of atenolol therapy (50 or 100 mg once daily) in 19 patients with essential hypertension. After 50 weeks of atenolol treatment, the most notable changes were: for M-mode parameters, increases (p less than 0.05) in diastolic LV internal dimension, radius to thickness ratio and stroke volume, and decreases (p less than 0.01) in total wall thickness and heart rate; for Doppler parameters, increases (p less than 0.01) in slope and peripheral resistance, and decreases (p less than 0.01) in heart rate, stroke volume and cardiac output. The decreased total wall thickness and increased radius to thickness ratio suggest a trend toward regression of LV hypertrophy. These findings, along with improvements in blood pressure, pulse and exercise stress tests, indicate potential benefits of atenolol in managing patients with essential hypertension and LV hypertrophy. PMID- 2530894 TI - Role of nerve and muscle factors in the development of rat muscle spindles. AB - The soleus muscles of fetal rats were examined by electron microscopy to determine whether the early differentiation of muscle spindles is dependent upon sensory innervation, motor innervation, or both. Simple unencapsulated afferent muscle contacts were observed on the primary myotubes at 17 and 18 days of gestation. Spindles, encapsulations of muscle fibers innervated by afferents, could be recognized early on day 18 of gestation. The full complement of spindles in the soleus muscle was present at day 19, in the region of the neuromuscular hilum. More afferents innervated spindles at days 18 and 19 of gestation than at subsequent developmental stages, or in adult rats; hence, competition for available myotubes may exist among afferents early in development. Some of the myotubes that gave rise to the first intrafusal (bag2) fiber had been innervated by skeletomotor (alpha) axons prior to their incorporation into spindles. However, encapsulated intrafusal fibers received no motor innervation until fusimotor (gamma) axons innervated spindles 3 days after the arrival of afferents and formation of spindles, at day 20. The second (bag1) intrafusal fiber was already formed when gamma axons arrived. Thus, the assembly of bag1 and bag2 intrafusal fibers occurs in the presence of sensory but not gamma motor innervation. However, transient innervation of future bag2 fibers by alpha axons suggests that both sensory and alpha motor neurons may influence the initial stages of bag2 fiber assembly. The confinement of nascent spindles to a localized region of the developing muscle and the limited number of spindles in developing muscles in spite of an abundance of afferents raise the possibility that afferents interact with a special population of undifferentiated myotubes to form intrafusal fibers. PMID- 2530895 TI - Correction of atrioventricular septal defect. Results influenced by Down syndrome? AB - The role of Down syndrome (DS) in the outcome of the surgical correction of atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) was investigated by the analysis of clinical events among 85 patients. Complete AVSD (cAVSD) was present in 49 patients, of whom 36 (73%) had DS. Thirty patients (83%) survived surgical treatment. Of the 13 patients without DS, 7 (54%) survived. There were four deaths and one late death. Thirty-six patients had partial AVSD (pAVSD), 5 (14%) of whom had DS; all 5 patients are still alive. Thirty (97%) of the 31 patients with pAVSD without DS survived the operation. There were two late deaths. Preoperative selection did not account for the favorable results in children with DS. All early postoperative deaths in cAVSD occurred in children younger than 2 years; low body weight for age seemed to be an important factor in adverse outcome. A large number of patients without DS had other serious congenital malformations. In view of the relatively favorable results in patients with DS, it does not seem warranted to maintain a conservative diagnostic and therapeutic approach of AVSD solely because of concomitant DS. PMID- 2530896 TI - Shigellosis outbreaks at summer camps for the mentally retarded in New York State. AB - During 1987, four New York State summer camps for the mentally retarded and developmentally disabled experienced outbreaks of Shigella sonnei gastroenteritis. Cases occurred in 150 of 286 (attack rate (AR) = 52%), 167 of 295 (AR = 57%), and 25 of 114 (AR = 22%) persons in three camps, respectively; a fourth camp reported eight cases. Epidemiologic investigation suggested point source foodborne outbreaks in two camps, while person-to-person spread appeared to predominate in the other two. Numerous secondary cases were identified among contacts outside the facilities in the second and third camps. To quantify the extent of the problem, the authors reviewed data on 77 infectious disease outbreaks (12 in camps for the handicapped and 65 in camps for the nonhandicapped) that occurred in the 12,484 registered camp sessions (316 for the handicapped and 12,168 for the nonhandicapped) held during the six-year period 1982-1987. Camps for the handicapped demonstrated approximately a seven times greater risk for all types of infectious disease outbreaks (AR = 38 outbreaks/1,000 camp sessions vs. five outbreaks/1,000 camp sessions; relative risk (RR) = 7.1, 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.9-13.0), including those of gastrointestinal etiology (RR = 8.6, 95% CI 4.4-16.8) and those due to Shigella (RR = infinity). Large camp size (RR = 2.3, 95% CI 1.3-4.1) and long duration of camp sessions (RR = 3.9, 95% CI 1.3-11.6) also increased the risk for outbreaks; however, this risk was predominantly in the camps for the nonhandicapped--other factors relating to personal hygiene and close camper-staff contact were probably more important in the camps for the handicapped. These outbreaks demonstrate the impact of shigellosis at summer camps for the mentally retarded and the need for early preventive action. PMID- 2530897 TI - Newborn's fibrinolytic mechanism: components and plasmin generation. AB - Plasminogen activity and antigen, tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA) activity and antigen, plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI) activity, and plasmin generation rates were determined in 32 normal newborn plasmas and 25 normal adult plasmas. The newborns showed reduced levels of plasminogen activity and antigen and tPA antigen, and activity, normal levels of PAI activity, and slower plasmin generation rates. The slower generation was shown to be due to the hypoplasminogenemia. The in vitro plasmin generation studies also showed that the newborn needed 11 times the usual concentration of urokinase and 5 times the usual concentration of tPA to achieve the minimal activation rate of the adult. PMID- 2530898 TI - OKT3-associated adverse reactions: mechanistic basis and therapeutic options. AB - OKT3, a prototypic monoclonal antibody directed at the lineage-specific CD3 antigen expressed on mature T cells, is an effective immunosuppressant in organ graft recipients. Unfortunately, a variety of adverse reactions are observed following the first and second doses of OKT3. In a series of experiments designed to examine the signaling repertoire of OKT3, it was found that (1) OKT3 is an effective substitute for the alloantigen stimulus in the activation of antigen specific memory T cells; (2) OKT3 is a potent inducer of cytolytic activity (secondary cytotoxic T-cell activity as well as natural killer-cell activity); (3) OKT3 is also an inducer of interleukin-2 and interferon gamma production; and (4) of the immunosuppressants currently in clinical use, cyclosporine greater than methylprednisolone greater than 6-mercaptopurine (an in vivo cleavage product of azathioprine) in curtailing T-cell activation with OKT3. Collectively, these observations suggest a potential mechanistic basis for the adverse reactions associated with OKT3 and provide experimental support for therapeutic strategies that include the use of cyclosporine and/or methylprednisolone before OKT3 administration. PMID- 2530899 TI - Hypothesis: familial Mediterranean fever--a genetic disorder of the lipocortin family? AB - Familial Mediterranean fever is an autosomal recessively inherited disorder of unknown cause characterized by recurrent attacks of inflammation, involving mainly the peritoneum, pleura, synovia, and skin. Based on a phenotype analysis, we propose that its manifestations may be related to a genetic defect in one of the family of lipocortin proteins. Evidence is presented supporting an abnormality in the first step of prostaglandin/leukotriene synthesis. PMID- 2530901 TI - A different perspective on advanced parental age. PMID- 2530900 TI - Familial abdominal wall defects. AB - We report 2 families, each having multiple sibs with abdominal wall defects. In family 1, normal parents gave birth to identical (monochorionic, diamniotic) twins. This is the first reported case of gastroschisis occurring in monozygotic twins. In family 2, a normal mother gave birth to a son with omphalocele. Two subsequent pregnancies with a different husband resulted in a stillborn girl with partial atresia of the colon and a liveborn girl with gastroschisis. In neither case were there any associated anomalies. In neither of the 2 families was there consanguinity or history of other abdominal wall defects. The familial occurrence of these defects suggests that 1) multifactorial determination should be considered in at least some cases of abdominal wall defects, 2) the bowel atresias that occasionally accompany gastroschisis may also have a genetic (multifactorial) cause, and 3) some cases of gastroschisis and omphalocele may have the same genetic cause. PMID- 2530902 TI - Availability of genetic services to the deaf. PMID- 2530903 TI - Hypotension and renal impairment during infusion of atrial natriuretic factor in liver cirrhosis with ascites. AB - Plasma immunoreactive atrial natriuretic factor (irANF) levels and the effects of alpha-human ANF (alpha-hANF) infusion were investigated in 7 patients with liver cirrhosis and ascites. Under basal conditions, supine blood pressure (BP) averaged 136/76 +/- 9/4 mm Hg (mean +/- SEM). Plasma irANF concentrations (124 +/ 33 pg/ml) were higher (p less than 0.01) than those in age-matched normal subjects (47 +/- 5 pg/ml). Plasma renin activity (PRA 5.9 +/- 2.2 ng/ml/h), aldosterone (18 +/- 7 ng/dl) and norepinephrine (NE, 66 +/- 5 ng/dl) levels were also elevated compared to the age-related normal range. Alpha-hANF infusion for 60 min at 0.036 micrograms/kg/min decreased the mean BP (-14%; p less than 0.05), increased PRA (+179%; p less than 0.05) and plasma NE (+24%; p less than 0.05). Glomerular filtration rate (GFR), effective renal plasma flow (ERPF), diuresis and natriuresis were not modified. A subsequent 60-min infusion of alpha-hANF at 0.067 micrograms/kg/min produced a marked fall in mean BP (-26%; p less than 0.001), hemoconcentration (hematocrit +6%; p less than 0.001) despite stable body fluid balance and a further increase in PRA (+350%, p less than 0.005). GFR and ERPF were severely reduced (-55 and -56%, respectively; p less than 0.001), while diuresis and natriuresis were not modified. Plasma aldosterone was unaltered during, but rose (+72%; p less than 0.01) after the cessation of alpha-hANF infusion. Variations in natriuresis during alpha-hANF infusion correlated positively with BP (r = 0.47; p less than 0.01), ERPF (r = 0.53; p less than 0.01) or GFR (r = 0.51; p less than 0.01).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530904 TI - Natriuretic hormone: current status. PMID- 2530905 TI - Myocardial fibrosis in nonhuman primate with pressure overload hypertrophy. AB - Characteristics of pressure overload hypertrophy are known to include an accumulation of collagen (or fibrosis) and a biochemical remodeling of fibrillar type I and III collagens. The corresponding structural nature of myocardial fibrosis is less clear. This light morphologic study was undertaken to address this issue in the hypertrophied left ventricle of the nonhuman primate with experimental hypertension. For this purpose, the picrosirius red technique and polarization microscopy were used to examine the myocardium during the evolutionary, early, and late phases of established hypertrophy corresponding to 4, 35, and 88 weeks of experimental hypertension. Evidence of increased thin perimysial fiber formation, together with collagen fiber disruption and edema at 4 weeks of hypertrophy, was found when the chamber volume to left ventricular mass ratio was reduced. After 35 weeks, when this ratio was again normal, a greater number of intermuscular spaces contained both thick and thin perimysial fibers. In addition to this interstitial fibrosis, a reactive fibrosis consisting of a meshwork of thick and thin perimysial fibers was seen extending over muscle fibers. Finally, at 88 weeks, this fibrous meshwork had encircled muscle and there now was evidence of cell necrosis. The accompanying replacement fibrosis consisted of yet another distinctive orthogonal grid of thick and thin collagen fibers. Thus, a continuum of fibrillar collagen remodeling was seen in pressure overload hypertrophy in the nonhuman primate myocardium. Structurally distinct patterns of myocardial fibrosis were recognized based on the alignment of perimysial fibers with muscle that may explain the cellular remodeling and altered mechanical behavior of the concentrically hypertrophied myocardium. PMID- 2530906 TI - Increased suppressor T cells in probable transmitters of human immunodeficiency virus infection. AB - To evaluate behavioral and immunologic factors related to transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) by homosexual intercourse, we studied a population of 329 homosexual/bisexual men (155 partner-pairs) seen in a community health center and medical outpatient clinic. Logistic regression analysis showed that behavioral risk factors for infection in the 130 HIV-infected men included: receptive anal intercourse (OR 4.6, 95% CI-1.8, 12.1); receptive fisting (OR 2.5, CI-1.1, 7.0); nitrite use (OR 2.3, CI-1.2, 4.6); history of gonorrhea or syphilis (OR 2.3, CI-1.4, 3.9); and history of sexual contact with men from areas with many AIDS cases (OR 1.9, CI-1.0, 3.5). Comparing seven men who were probable transmitters of HIV and 11 men who had not transmitted HIV to their uninfected partners despite unprotected insertive anal intercourse, we found no differences in HIV isolation from peripheral blood mononuclear cells, circulating HIV antigen detection, or presence of neutralizing antibody to HIV. Helper T-cell numbers were not significantly different between the two groups, but transmitters had more suppressor T-cells than did nontransmitters. PMID- 2530907 TI - Injury surveillance. PMID- 2530908 TI - Occupational disease surveillance with existing data sources. PMID- 2530909 TI - Malignant soft-tissue tumors of the anterior abdominal wall. AB - Malignant soft-tissue tumors of the abdominal wall consist of desmoid tumors and nondesmoid soft-tissue sarcomas. These neoplasms tend to invade adjacent musculoaponeurotic and bony structures. Transperitoneal organ invasion can also occur with devastating sequelae, especially after an incomplete excision. Extirpation with the full-thickness of the abdominal wall is required except for small, superficial lesions. A wide-margin resection, including any adherent viscus, segments of adjacent ribs, and iliac or pubic crest, offers the best assurance of local control. Adjunctive radiotherapy can be given when the margin of resection is unavoidably limited, but an effective radiation dose can be difficult to administer, due to the sensitivity of underlying intestines. Metastases develop frequently with high-grade sarcomas; adjuvant chemotherapy may be tried in these patients, but its value remains unproven. PMID- 2530910 TI - [Endocrine function of the feto-placental complex in anemia of varying degrees of severity]. AB - To assess the endocrine performance of the fetoplacental system in anemia complicated pregnancy, blood levels of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DEAS), estriol (E3), estradiol (E2), progesterone (PRG) and placental hormone were studied in 287 normal women and female patients with varying anemias. Increased levels of PRG found in the blood of anemic patients were suggestive of a higher endocrine performance of their placentas. In this line, anemic females demonstrated relatively high blood concentrations of E3 and E2 despite dramatical drop in DEAS levels. In patients with severe anemia two late months of gestation were featured by lowered hormonal preformance in the placenta as well as lower levels of PRG, placental hormone, E3 and E2. PMID- 2530911 TI - [Analysis of plasma levels of dehydroepiandrosterone and 17-hydroxyprogesterone in physiologic and pathologic pregnancy and labor]. AB - Plasma levels of dehydroepiandrosterone (DEA) and 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-HP) were studied in 43 pregnant females 11 with normal pregnancy and labor and 32 at high risk of obstetric complications (primary powerless labor, prematurity, postmaturity, rapid parturition). Hormonal investigation was performed in each particular female in the time-course of her pregnancy and labor as well as in the mixed blood plasma from the umbilical cord. Concentrations of hormones observed in the females with normal pregnancies and labors differed from those in the patients whose pregnancy was complicated as well as their labor. It has been concluded that the results of DEA and 17-HP variation assessment in the blood plasma are essential additional indicators of adrenal performance both in mother and fetus. PMID- 2530912 TI - [Improving specialized services for women with habitual abortion and for premature infants]. AB - The package of specially developed organizational and therapeutic measures ensuring the life protection in perinatology++ and first postnatal months was found to be mandatory for reaching a higher survival rate in premature children. The adequate structure of medical institutions responsible for the treatment of miscarried pregnancy and the care for premature children was considered as the most important constituent of the package. PMID- 2530913 TI - Role of maternal diet and mode of infant feeding in prevention of atopic dermatitis in high risk infants. PMID- 2530915 TI - Use of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase as a new label for nucleic acid hybridization reactions. AB - We describe here a sensitive new procedure for detecting DNA hybridization by dot blots. The method utilizes DNA or oligonucleotide probes labeled with biotin, sulfone, or haptens that can be detected by glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) conjugates. Biotin labeling of DNA gave the best sensitivity. G6PDH activity was revealed by staining or by bioluminescence using an FMN oxidoreductase and a luciferase from Beneckea harveyi. Bioluminescent detection offered better sensitivity and faster revelation than the colorimetric assay and was found to be very useful in visualizing single mutations in human DNA after hybridization with an allele-specific biotinylated oligonucleotide probe. Revelation can be performed using a luminometer, photographic films, or a very sensitive video camera. The detection is limited by the nonspecific binding of the labeled reagent (streptavidin or antibodies). This limit is similar to that obtained with other nonisotopic labeling procedures, but our method is faster and several hybridization reactions can be performed on the same support. PMID- 2530914 TI - A general method of site-specific mutagenesis using a modification of the Thermus aquaticus polymerase chain reaction. AB - A specific mutagenic change in the cDNA of human protein S was introduced by a modification of the polymerase chain reaction that permits the introduction of a mutation at any position in a double-stranded DNA molecule. The method employed four synthetic oligonucleotide primers. One oligonucleotide contained a single base mismatch to direct the mutagenesis; the other three oligonucleotides were designed to allow selective amplification of the mutated sequence with Thermus aquaticus polymerase. The mutagenized cDNA was cloned into a plasmid vector and transformed into Escherichia coli RR1 cells for characterization. The desired cytosine to guanine change in the target cDNA was confirmed by the predicted appearance of an AluI restriction site and by dideoxynucleotide sequencing. No other sequence changes were detected within the amplified region. This method of site-specific mutagenesis can be applied to any linear double-stranded DNA large enough for primer annealing and obviates specialized cloning vectors, DNA constructs, and selection techniques. It has the advantage over a recently published PCR technique (R. Higuchi, B. Krummel, and R. Saki (1988) Nucleic Acids Res. 16, 7351-7367) in requiring no diafiltration to remove primers between steps and in requiring only a single mutagenic oligonucleotide to be synthesized for each mutant construct made after the initial one. PMID- 2530916 TI - A simple procedure for the preparation and purification of the oligosaccharide components of the glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchor of membrane proteins. AB - The oligosaccharide components of the glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchors of Trypanosoma brucei variant surface glycoproteins have been prepared and purified by treatment with hydrolytic enzymes and solvent extraction procedures followed by HPLC purification using a specific oligosaccharide binding matrix (Glyco-Pak N, by Waters). Three oligosaccharide peaks (peaks I, II and III) were resolved by a single isocratic HPLC step (70% acetonitrile in water). The material from these peaks was hydrolyzed in acid and analyzed by GC/MS. GC/MS analysis of the material obtained from each peak demonstrated the presence of inositol, glucosamine, and mannose in a 1:1:3 ratio. A variable number of galactose residues were detected in each peak. The galactose:inositol ratios of the purified components were 1:1, 2:1, and 3:1 for peaks I, II and III, respectively, suggesting that the separation obtained depends primarily on the number of sugar residues present in each fraction. PMID- 2530917 TI - A spectrophotometric assay for the cyclization activity of cyclomaltohexaose (alpha-cyclodextrin) glucanotransferase. AB - A cyclomaltohexaose (alpha-cyclodextrin) determination method which is both highly reproducible and selective is described. It involves the formation of an inclusion complex between the cyclodextrin and methyl orange under conditions of low pH (1.2) and low temperature (16 degrees C) and is useful for the assay of cyclodextrin glucanotransferase activity. The formation of the inclusion complex causes a decrease in absorbance of the methyl orange solution and this is monitored at a wavelength of 505 nm. The decrease in absorbance is linearly correlated with the cyclomaltohexaose concentration in the range of 0.25 optical density unit and 0.30 mM cyclomaltohexaose. The specificity of the test for cyclomaltohexaose is high, with only limited interference by linear oligosaccharides and other cyclodextrins: cyclomaltoheptaose and cyclomaltooctaose cause absorbance variations of 16 and 5%, respectively, of the response of maltohexaose. The formation of the complex is instantaneous and the complex is stable in time, provided the temperature is constant. The presence of methyl orange does not hinder enzymatic activity determination. The reaction is stopped by acidification and absorbance is measured at the fixed temperature of 16 degrees C. Possible interferences inherent to the composition of the sample itself can be suppressed by running appropriate controls and calculating a corrected optical density. This colorimetric method is simple and should be versatile in assaying diverse cyclomaltohexaose glucanotransferase enzymes. PMID- 2530918 TI - Computer-controlled discontinuous rotating gel electrophoresis for separation of very large DNA molecules. AB - The newly designed equipment for alternating field gel electrophoresis which permits the separation of very large DNA molecules and the simultaneous analysis of up to 35 samples is described. The field alternation is effected by intermittently rotating the submerged agarose gel by optitional angles. The time intervals between changes of position are controlled by a computer program driving a simple switching device which was designed to suit any technique using periodic switching or inversion of the electrical field. Because the electrophoresis unit provides an absolutely homogeneous electrical field, no distortion of migration lanes occurs and the resolution is very good. Moreover, by using a switching time interval gradient an almost perfect linear relationship between migration distances and molecule sizes in the range of about 100-1250 kilobase pairs is observed. In two-dimensional separations, different switching time programs for the first and second dimension allow maximum resolution of selected size ranges. Field inversion gel electrophoresis is possible as well. The performance of the method is demonstrated by comparing the chromosome sizes of different yeast strains. PMID- 2530919 TI - Electrochemical method for measuring C-reactive protein using crown ether- phosphate ester ionophores. AB - A new electrochemical method for measurement of C-reactive protein (CRP) is presented. We have synthesized new crown ether-phosphate ester ionophores having high affinity for CRP. A study using proton nuclear magnetic resonance shows CRP binding to the ionophores in stoichiometric amounts. The incorporation of these crown ether-phosphate ester ionophores into poly(vinyl chloride) membrane electrodes yields a CRP-sensitive electrode with sensitivity in the microgram per milliliter range. The ionophore synthesis and preliminary electrode characteristics are described. PMID- 2530920 TI - Cyproterone acetate and a small dose of oestrogen in the pre-operative management of male transsexuals. A report of three cases. AB - The pre-operative treatment of three adult male transsexuals with the anti androgen and progestogenic compound cyproterone acetate is reported. When used in combination with cyproterone acetate, only a very small dose of oestrogen is needed to induce feminisation. The effect of this treatment on both testicular and epididymal function is described. PMID- 2530921 TI - Effect of cyproterone acetate in comparison to flutamide on the ventral prostate of adult male castrated Copenhagen-Fisher rats and on Dunning R-3327 H tumors. AB - In this investigation the effect of CPA was tested in comparison to FL after the procedure of double blinding on the ventral prostate of 70 adult male castrated Copenhagen-Fisher rats and on the Dunning R-3327 H tumor. Total androgen blockade by castration plus CPA or by castration plus FL induced significant decrease in prostate weight compared to the androgen deprivation by castration alone. No significant difference between CPA and FL was observed. Furthermore it was impossible to exaggerate this effect with higher doses of CPA of FL. The Dunning R-3327 H tumor did not become palpable 60 days after inoculation of the tumor cells indicating that androgen deprivation by total androgen blockade by castration plus CPA or plus FL did not exhibit any proliferative activity on the hormone-sensitive Dunning R-3327 H tumor cells. PMID- 2530922 TI - The effect of halothane, isoflurane, or sufentanil on the hypertensive response to cerebellar retraction during posterior fossa surgery. AB - The blood pressure (BP) response to cerebellar retraction during microvascular decompression of the fifth cranial nerve was investigated in 26 ASA physical status 2 or 3 patients with trigeminal neuralgia. One surgeon performed all operations. To determine the effect of three anesthetic techniques on the BP response, patients were randomly assigned to receive halothane, isoflurane, or sufentanil in sufficient doses with 60% nitrous oxide to achieve a precerebellar retraction systolic BP that was 10-20% below the average ward systolic BP (as per standard clinical practice). The resultant doses were halothane 1.65 +/- 0.27 (mean +/- SD) MAC, isoflurane 1.56 +/- 0.17 MAC (P greater than 0.05), and sufentanil 2.7 micrograms/kg (MAC values include 0.6 MAC contribution from 60% nitrous oxide). In all patients BP increased during the cerebellar retractor placement period compared with the preretractor placement period (P less than 0.05). The peak increase in systolic BP in response to cerebellar retraction was 17 +/- 6 mmHg for halothane, 38 +/- 20 mmHg for isoflurane, and 26 +/- 19 mmHg for sufentanil. The difference between halothane and isoflurane was significant (P less than 0.05). Mean and diastolic BP showed similar significant differences. The authors conclude that halothane attenuates the hypertensive response to cerebellar retraction more than isoflurane when administered in approximately 1.6 MAC concentrations (MAC value includes contribution from nitrous oxide). PMID- 2530924 TI - The role of lasers in the management of peripheral vascular disease. AB - Although it has been almost twenty-five years since the first studies of McGuff et al, who employed the laser for atheroablation, problems still require resolution. The various laser wavelengths from ultraviolet through visible to infrared have been employed for atheroablation. The laser's greatest appeal and the most spectacular results have been in reopening channels in totally occluded vessels. The laser's greatest problem has been damage of the arterial wall and even perforation. The purpose of this presentation is to clarify the present status of available lasers for the treatment of peripheral vascular disease of the lower extremities. To this end, the initial experience with angioscopically guided laser-assisted angioplasty with a new hybrid laser probe is reported. PMID- 2530923 TI - Impending myocardial infarction in a patient with marked left ventricular hypertrophy and normal coronary arteriogram--a case report. AB - A middle-aged woman with long-term uncontrolled arterial hypertension developed a clinical picture of impending myocardial infarction. A normal coronary arteriogram was obtained. However, left heart catheterization showed a marked increase in left ventricular end-diastolic pressure, while left angiocardiography revealed marked left ventricular hypertrophy. She was successfully treated with a beta-blocking and calcium-antagonist agent. The present case shows that an impending myocardial infarction may occur in patients having normal coronary arteriogram but with left ventricular hypertrophy secondary to arterial hypertension. PMID- 2530926 TI - Diagnostic imaging procedures for the lumbar spine. PMID- 2530925 TI - [A combination of sufentanil and 0.25% bupivacaine administered epidurally for obstetrical analgesia. Comparison with fentanyl and placebo]. AB - The study reported was designed to determine whether 15 micrograms sufentanil would provide analgesia comparable in duration and quality with that given by 75 micrograms fentanyl, when associated with plain 0.25% bupivacaine for extradural analgesia for labour. Patients (n = 124) in labour and at full term were randomly divided into 3 groups. Group 1 (n = 41) were given 12 ml of 0.25% plain bupivacaine with saline, group 2 (n = 41) 12 ml of 0.25% plain bupivacaine with 75 micrograms fentanyl and group 3 (n = 42) 12 ml of 0.25% plain bupivacaine with 15 micrograms sufentanil. 11 cases were excluded from the study (8 Caesarean sections, 3 technical failures). The duration of analgesia obtained with the two opioids was similar (group 2: 126.7 +/- 6.5 min, p less than 0.01; group 3: 114.9 +/- 5.8 min, p less than 0.01; group 1: 93.6 +/- 5.4 min) as well as the quality of pain relief. There were no differences between the three groups with regard to Apgar scores. The only side-effect seen with sufentanil and fentanyl was pruritus (group 2: 21.9%, p less than 0.05; group 3: 21.4%, p less than 0.05; group 1: 2.4%). These results showed that 15 micrograms sufentanil could replace 75 micrograms fentanyl for extradural pain relief of labour with plain 0.25% bupivacaine. However, the use of opioids with local anaesthetics would seem to be of interest only if labour is likely to be prolonged. PMID- 2530927 TI - [Are ciliary abnormalities always present in Kartagener's syndrome? A study of 16 patients]. AB - Kartagener's syndrome is defined as the combination of bronchiectasis, sinusitis and situs inversus. Assessment of characteristic ultrastructural changes and of their clinical expression was possible by examining the ciliated cells in the airways of 16 patients (12 children). Respiratory cilia of 11/13 patients were found to have abnormal motility. Quantitative ultrastructural data were obtained for 15 patients. Findings were absolutely normal in 2 cases. In 13 cases, ciliary abnormalities affected all the cilia, the majority of them (70-90%) or some of them (20-40%) (n = 7, n = 4, n = 2, respectively). The most frequently encountered aberration was a lacking external dynein arm. Summing it up: 1) ultrastructural ciliary abnormalities do not appear consistently in Kartagener's syndrome; 2) the lack of external dynein arms of cilia is the most frequent anomalous finding: 3) the clinical expression of ciliary dysfunction varies and the exact correlation between ultrastructural data and the intensity of the clinical manifestations remains to be established. PMID- 2530929 TI - [Endoscopy of the retroperitoneal space. Technics, results and current indications]. AB - Retroperitoneoscopy (RPS), a form of direct vision endoscopy derived from mediastinoscopy, allows exploration of the majority of the lumbar and pelvic retroperitoneal space. Over a period of three years since May 1985, we have performed 135 RPS for 107 indications in 106 patients. Twenty-two examinations were performed for the diagnosis of retroperitoneal masses or adenopathy and a precise histological result was obtained in 20 cases. In 2 cases, the hypothesis of malignant lymphadenopathy was formally excluded. Lymph node extension from 78 pelvic cancers (bladder : 52, prostate : 22, cervix : 3, endometrium : 1) were studied by unilateral or bilateral pelviscopy; RPS corrected the imaging in 24 cases and there were 4 false negatives. Seven patients with suspected lymph node recurrence from malignant diseases (3 lymphomas, 4 miscellaneous tumours) were examined : 3 recurrences were confirmed and 2 were excluded. There were 2 failures responsible for 2 false negatives. The diagnostic accuracy of RPS (94%) is superior to that of other diagnostic investigations for retroperitoneal masses and evaluation of retroperitoneal lymph nodes. In many cases, it eliminates the need for exploratory laparotomy. PMID- 2530928 TI - Acne of the heel: acne vulgaris complicating a free vascularized latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap. AB - An interesting case of acne vulgaris complicating a free vascularized latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap used for heel reconstruction is presented. The development of acne in a free musculocutaneous island transfer has not been described before, and we speculate as to its cause. We conclude that quiescent donor site acne scarring may be a contraindication to the use of free skin flap transfer for soft tissue reconstruction. PMID- 2530931 TI - Effect of the fluoropyrimidines 5-fluorouracil and doxifluridine on cellular uptake of thiamin. AB - The effect of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and doxifluridine on cellular uptake and phosphorylation of thiamin was studied in two different cell systems. Uptake of 14C-Thiamine in human NHIK 3025 cells preincubated for 24 h with 0.05 mM 5-FU or 0.1 mM doxifluridine was increased by 22-26% relative to nontreated control cells. In isolated rat hepatocytes a drug-induced increase in thiamin uptake by 40-45% was found following 2 h incubation both with 5-FU and doxifluridine. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) showed an increase in intracellular thiamin diphosphate (TPP), while free thiamin (T) remained unchanged in drug exposed cells, indicating an increased phosphorylation of thiamin. The results indicate that fluoropyrimidines may increase the cellular thiamin metabolism, possibly resulting in clinical symptoms of thiamin deficiency if the dietary intake is not increased correspondingly. PMID- 2530930 TI - [Antiandrogens. Mechanisms and paradoxical effects]. AB - Antiandrogens can be distinguished into three categories: those realizing a biochemical castration, those acting only at the target cell level by competitive inhibition of androgen binding to their receptor, and those doing both. In the first category enter mainly LHRH agonists and steroidogenesis inhibitors. LHRH agonists act through pituitary desensitization and have the inconvenient of an initial stimulation (flare-up) resulting in a lag before efficiency can be obtained. In addition, they do not suppress adrenal androgens. Steroidogenesis enzymes inhibitors can never realize a complete block and, due to negative feed back control, circulating androgens progressively increase again after a while. Non steroidal antiandrogens interact with the androgen receptor thus preventing androgen action by competitive inhibition. However, as they also interact with the androgen receptor at the hypothalamic level, the resulting progressive increase in circulating androgens may overcome the peripheral inhibition at the receptor level. Their use is therefore restricted to castrated (surgically of biochemically) subjects, to suppress the effects of adrenal androgens or of the initial flare-up under LHRH agonists. As they have no antigonadotropic action, they must be associated in women with some kind of contraception. In contrast, the main progestational antiandrogen used, cyproterone acetate (CPA), has antigonadotropic effects which suppress androgen production and realizes at the same time an efficient contraception in women. It interacts with the androgen receptor and thus inhibits the action at the target cell site of any remaining androgens. In addition, it lowers the androgen dependent 5 alpha-reductase of human skin and has a weak agonist effect on liver protein synthesis resulting in an increased metabolic clearance rate of testosterone. In conclusion, CPA which by itself suppresses testosterone production, increases testosterone elimination and prevents testosterone action, seems at the present time the more complete available antiandrogen. PMID- 2530932 TI - Studies on retinotoxic potential of a novel antitumor antibiotic--sparsomycin--in rats. AB - Sparsomycin (Sm) is a potent inhibitor of protein synthesis with an anticancer potential. Two years after its discovery in 1962 a phase I clinical trial revealed serious drug-induced retinotoxicity. The mechanism of this toxicity still remains unresolved; however, its understanding is important for the reintroduction of Sm or one of its analogues in clinical practice. If Sm penetrates the retina, its toxic effect should be seen as inhibition of a protein(s) vital for the visual function. Treatment of healthy albino rats and Royal College of Surgeon (RCS) rats with subtoxic doses of Sm was unable to produce ocular toxic effects. Disruption of the blood-retina barrier with sodium iodate allowed Sm to decrease opsin content by only 27%. These results strongly indicate that Sm might become retinotoxic solely upon extreme conditions such as permeabilization of the blood-retina barrier which may happen only in some rare pathological situations. PMID- 2530933 TI - In vitro and in vivo activities of clarithromycin against Mycobacterium avium. AB - There is no effective therapy to treat Mycobacterium avium complex infection in patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome. Clarithromycin (A-56268; TE 031) is a new macrolide which is twofold more active than erythromycin against most aerobic bacteria. In addition, higher levels in serum and tissue are achieved with clarithromycin than with erythromycin. In this study, clarithromycin, erythromycin, difloxacin, temafloxacin, ciprofloxacin, rifampin, amikacin, and ethambutol were tested in vitro and in vivo against the M. avium complex. The MICs for 90% of strains tested were 4 micrograms/ml for clarithromycin, 64 micrograms/ml for erythromycin, 32 micrograms/ml for difloxacin, 8 micrograms/ml for temafloxacin, 4 micrograms/ml for ciprofloxacin, 4 micrograms/ml for rifampin, 32 micrograms/ml for amikacin, and 32 micrograms/ml for ethambutol. Beige mice were infected intravenously with 10(7) CFU of M. avium ATCC 25291. Treatment was started on day 6 after infection and was administered twice a day at 8-h intervals for 9 days. Clarithromycin was the most effective compound in these tests and was effective in reducing the viable bacterial counts in the spleen when it was administered subcutaneously or orally at a dose of 25 mg/kg. Amikacin was the only other compound which showed activity in vivo. The peak concentration in serum at which clarithromycin was active was approximately 1.0 microgram/ml. PMID- 2530934 TI - The effect of Mg2+ upon 6-phosphofructokinase activity in Ehrlich ascites tumor cells in vivo. AB - The effect of Mg2+ addition to intact Ehrlich ascites tumor cells (EATC) has been investigated. A decrease of glucose 6-phosphate (G6P) content and an increase of fructose 1,6-diphosphate (FDP) content are detected in glucose utilizing EATC incubated with increasing Mg2+ concentrations (from 0 to 5.0 mM). The strong enhancement of FDP/G6P ratio is taken as evidence for in vivo stimulation of phosphofructokinase 1 (PFK) (ATP:D-fructose-6-phosphate 1-phosphotransferase; EC 2.7.1.11). A similar effect can be observed when glucose is replaced by fructose as the glycolytic substrate. Stimulation of PFK is paralleled by substantial depletion of ATP. Cytochalasin B prevents the observed phenomena. Cell total Mg increases by about 15% when EATC are incubated with 5 mM Mg2+. The overall data show that extracellular Mg2+ may modulate glycolytic flux in EATC in vivo. Implications and significance of these phenomena in the regulation of cancer cell metabolic features are discussed. PMID- 2530935 TI - Equilibrium partition studies of the myofibrillar interactions of glycolytic enzymes. AB - The interactions of several glycolytic enzymes with muscle myofibrils in imidazole-chloride buffer (pH 6.8, I 0.158) have been investigated by equilibrium partition studies. Results for aldolase, glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, lactate dehydrogenase, and phosphofructokinase are interpreted in terms of a myofibrillar capacity of 76 nmol/g protein and a single intrinsic association constant for each tetravalent enzyme with matrix sites. The existence of separate myofibrillar sites for aldolase and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase is established by demonstrating independence of the binding of each enzyme upon the presence of the other. Although this investigation provides further physicochemical support for myofibrillar adsorption of glycolytic enzymes in the cellular environment, its findings are incompatible with the proposition (B. I. Kurganov, N. P. Sugrobova, and L. S. Mil'man (1985) J. Theor. Biol. 116, 509-526) that the phenomenon reflects the formation of a specific multienzyme complex attached to the myofibril. PMID- 2530936 TI - [Results of tamoxifen-medroxyprogesterone acetate sequential therapy in 22 patients with recurrent breast cancer]. AB - Effects of tamoxifen (TAM)-medroxyprogesterone (MPA) sequential therapy were evaluated in 22 patients with recurrent breast cancer. TAM-MPA therapy was given in the form of TAM 20 mg b.i.d. for 14 days followed by MPA 1200 mg t.i.d. for the subsequent 14 days, in alternating sequence. The response rate was 27% (6/22). Weight gain (greater than 5 kg) was observed in 18% (4/22) and this incidence was lower than that reported for MPA therapy. These results demonstrate that TAM-MPA therapy offers fewer side effects than MPA therapy, but response rate is unlikely to be improved. PMID- 2530937 TI - The effect of antibiotics on the efficacy of oral contraceptives. A controversy revisited. PMID- 2530938 TI - Milialike idiopathic calcinosis cutis in Down's syndrome. PMID- 2530939 TI - [Late surgical complications in kidney transplantation. Experience and results]. AB - The present study reports the late surgical complications observed following 270 renal transplant procedures performed at our department. Their etiologic, clinical, and therapeutic aspects are discussed. With respect to arterial stenosis, we consider percutaneous transluminal angioplasty the procedure of choice when drug therapy fails to control hypertension. Surgery should be reserved for those cases where this procedure fails. We advocate treatment of lymphoceles whose size cause displacement or compression of the excretory tract using drainage and instillation of povidone iodide as advocated by Gonzalez Martin. Stenosis of the excretory tract is the most common complication in our series. Treatment was by corrective surgery. In our view, the etiologic and ultrastructural features of this complication make it unamenable to endourologic correction. PMID- 2530942 TI - Severe stenotic scar contracture of the Microvel Hemashield right-sided extracardiac conduit. AB - We report 2 patients who developed severe scar contracture of a Microvel Hemashield valveless right-sided extracardiac conduit implanted 14 months earlier. In both cases, the diameter of the conduit was reduced along its entire length, with the prosthetic material plicated inward by retraction and organization of connective fibrous tissue on either side of the conduit. PMID- 2530940 TI - The preoperative and intraoperative hemodynamic predictors of postoperative myocardial infarction or ischemia in patients undergoing noncardiac surgery. AB - Among hypertensive and diabetic patients undergoing elective noncardiac surgery, preoperative status and intraoperative changes in mean arterial pressure (MAP) were evaluated as predictors of postoperative ischemic complications. Of 254 patients evaluated before operation and monitored during operation, 30 (12%) had postoperative cardiac death, ischemia, or infarction. Twenty-four per cent of patients with a previous myocardial infarction or cardiomegaly had an ischemic postoperative cardiac complication. Only 7% of those without either of these conditions sustained an ischemic complication. No other preoperative characteristics, including the presence of angina, predicted ischemic cardiac risk. Nineteen per cent of patients who had 20 mm Hg or more intraoperative decreases in MAP lasting 60 minutes or more had ischemic cardiac complications. Patients who had more than 20 mm Hg decreases in MAP lasting 5 to 59 minutes and more than 20 mm Hg increases lasting 15 minutes or more also had increased complications (p less than 0.03). Changes in pulse were not independent predictors of complications and the use of the rate-pressure product did not improve prediction based on MAP alone. In conclusion patients with a previous infarction or radiographic cardiomegaly are at high risk for postoperative ischemic complications. Prolonged intraoperative increases or decreases of 20 mm or more in MAP also resulted in a significant increase in these potentially life threatening surgical complications. PMID- 2530943 TI - Construction of an aortic homograft conduit for right ventricle to pulmonary artery continuity. AB - Over the past decade the aortic homograft has become the extracardiac conduit of choice for repair of many congenital cardiac defects. Anastomosis of the homograft annulus to the right ventricle may distort the valve and render it incompetent. Prosthetic tube grafts have been used to bridge the right ventricle and distal homograft. We propose and have use successfully a method for establishing right ventricle to pulmonary artery continuity that is free of prosthetic materials, is technically simple, and places the homograft valve in the hilum, away from the distorting right ventricle free wall. PMID- 2530941 TI - Thromboembolism from undersized Dacron grafts in the descending thoracic aorta. AB - Three patients were referred to our institution for major thromboembolic complications secondary to the use of undersized Dacron grafts (14, 16, and 18 mm) in the descending thoracic aorta. The progressive accumulation of thrombotic material in the prosthesis caused recurrent coarctation in 1 patient and peripheral embolisms in the other 2. With a 9-mm Gott shunt providing distal perfusion, excision of the clotted graft and its replacement with a 22-mm Dacron prosthesis was successfully achieved in each patient. PMID- 2530944 TI - [Glycopeptide antibiotics: eremomycin, vancomycin, and teicoplanin. Comparison of several parameters of pharmacokinetics and antimicrobial activity]. AB - Pharmacokinetic parameters of eremomycin (Institute of New Antibiotics, the USSR Academy of Medical Sciences), teichoplanin (Lepetit) and vancomycin (Eli Lilly) were compared after their intravenous administration to rats in the same dose of 50 mg/kg. It was shown that the area under the concentration time curve of eremomycin was 2 times smaller than that of teichoplanin and 6 times larger than that of vancomycin. The mean retention time of eremomycin was close to that of teichoplanin and 1.6 times higher than that of vancomycin. Bioavailability of eremomycin and teichoplanin after their extravascular administration was the same and amounted to 94 per cent. Antibacterial activity of eremomycin against methicillin resistant strains of staphylococci was 4 times higher than that of teichoplanin and vancomycin. PMID- 2530945 TI - Isradipine vs propranolol in hydrochlorothiazide-treated hypertensives. A multicenter evaluation. AB - A randomized, parallel, controlled study was conducted to evaluate the safety and efficacy of isradipine, 2.5 to 10 mg orally twice a day, compared with propranolol hydrochloride, 60 to 240 mg orally twice a day, in 78 hypertensives whose supine diastolic blood pressure was greater than 95 mm Hg while receiving 50 mg/d or more of hydrochlorothiazide. Isradipine or propranolol was titrated during a 10-week double-blind phase to achieve a supine diastolic blood pressure below 90 mm Hg while a fixed dose of hydrochlorothiazide was maintained. Supine diastolic blood pressure was reduced by 10 mm Hg in 88% of the isradipine/hydrochlorothiazide-treated and 83% of the propranolol/hydrochlorothiazide-treated groups and to less than 90 mm Hg in 55% of the isradipine/hydrochlorothiazide-treated and 69% of the propranolol/hydrochlorothiazide-treated patients. There was no significant difference in supine blood pressure reduction between either group, but there was a 3-to 4-beats per minute increase in supine heart rate in isradipine-treated patients and an expected 15- to 20-beats per minute decrease in heart rate in propranolol-treated patients. Five of 7 patients in the isradipine-treated group and 8 of 9 patients in the propranolol-treated group discontinued the therapy because of adverse reactions or treatment failure. Using Fisher's Exact Test, we found no significant difference in the relative frequency of individual adverse reactions between groups, although the absolute adverse reaction frequency was significantly higher with isradipine. This study demonstrates the effectiveness and safety of supplemental isradipine in the treatment of hypertension not controlled by hydrochlorothiazide alone. PMID- 2530946 TI - [Left ventricular accumulation of messenger ribonucleic acid coding for the natriuretic atrial factor in various experimental models of cardiac hypertrophy in rats]. AB - Cardiac hypertrophy secondary to chronic hemodynamic overload is associated with an increase in the ventricular concentration of the messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) coding for the atrial natriuretic factor (ANF). We have compared, in male Wistar rats (10 week old, 200-220 g), using dot blot hybridization and a specific oligonucleotide probe, the left ventricular concentration of ANF mRNA (LV ANF mRNA) in 4 models of chronic hemodynamic overload inducing various patterns of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH): a model of volume overload, the aortocaval fistula (ACF, n = 15); a model of pressure overload, coarctation of the abdominal aorta (CoA, n = 13) and 2 models of mixed overload, aortic regurgitation (AR, n = 7) and myocardial infarction (INF, n = 18). A month after surgery, LVH was 49 p. 100 for AR, 41 p. 100 for Co A and 21 p. 100 for ACF. Instead of a severe infarction, LVH was 6 p. 100 in INF demonstrating a marked hypertrophy of the non infarcted myocardium. For each model, LV ANF mRNA was compared to that in a corresponding group of sham-operated control rats and expressed as the percentage of ANF mRNA concentration in the pooled atria of the controls. In the 4 control groups LV ANF mRNA was 1 +/- 0.5 p. 100 that in the corresponding atria and the sham-operated animals were thus pooled in a single group (n = 19). In the 4 models of LVH, LV ANF mRNA markedly increased as compared to controls.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530947 TI - [Determinants of left ventricular hypertrophy in hypertensive subjects that have never been treated: role of the sodium intake]. AB - Many factors have been implicated in the pathogenesis of myocardial hypertrophy, and the role of sodium has recently been suggested. In the present study, we assessed the influence of dietary sodium on the degree of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) in 41 patients aged 38 +/- 10 (mean +/- SD) with mild essential hypertension (casual blood pressure 149 +/- 17/91 +/- 11 mmHg). Patients had never been given antihypertensive drugs before and ingested ad libitum sodium intake. Posterior wall thickness (PWT) and left ventricular mass (LVM) were measured by M-mode echocardiography and sodium intake was estimated from urinary sodium excretion rate (UNa, mmol/24h). Both PWT and LVM, and not telediastolic diameter or LV fractional shortening, were directly correlated with UNa (r = 0.47 and 0.46; p less than 0.02 and 0.002, respectively. A stepwise multiple regression analysis confirmed that UNa was a determinant of LVM independently of sex, age, body weight, blood pressure and duration of hypertension. No correlation was found between LVM and plasma renin activity, whilst a positive one existed between PWT and hematocrit (r = 0.42; p less than 0.007). These results suggest that dietary sodium may play a role in modulating left ventricular mass in untreated hypertensives, possibly in expanding volume or activating the adrenergic system. PMID- 2530948 TI - [Aorta-left ventricle coupling in permanent arterial hypertension using Doppler echocardiography]. AB - We have studied 12 sustained hypertensive patients (H) (9 men and 3 women) untreated and without other heart disease than a left ventricular hypertrophy, 37 to 70 years of age (mean 56 +/- 12) and 12 normotensive subjects (N) of the same sex and 35 to 77 years of age (mean 52 +/- 16 ans). We have measured 1) arterial pressure (AP) by a standard mercury sphygmomanometer, 2) diameter of ascending aorta (AD), end diastolic left ventricular radius (r) and thickness (Th) by M mode echocardiography with 2D echo control., 3) isthmus-diaphragm pulse wave delay (PWD) from aortic velocity curves recorded in the isthmus and diaphragm aortic crossing by pulsed doppler. We derived 1) the pulse wave velocity (PWV) as PW = SL/PWD where SL is the sternal length, 2) PWV/AD ratio as an indirect index of characteristic impedance, 3) Th/r and LV mass (m) according to Teichholz formula: (table; see text) In both groups 1) m is significantly correlated with SAP (r = 0.67 p less than 0.001), PP (r = 0.61 p less than 0.001), PWV (r = 0.52 p less than 0.01) but not with PWV/AD; 2) Th/r ratio is significantly correlated with SAP (r = 0.64 p less than 0.001), PP (r = 0.63 p less than 0.001), PWV (r = 0.53 p less than 0.001) and PWV/AD (r = 0.41 p less than 0.05). Relationship between PWV and age of H is linear (r = 0.75 p less than 0.001) and shifted at left of that of N which is also linear (r = 0.061 p less than 0.05).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530949 TI - [Relationship between heart mass and semi-ambulatory pressure profiles]. AB - This work was undertaken with 420 patients (90 normotensives: casual blood pressure less than or equal to 140/90 mmHg and 330 hypertensives) in which was recorded a semi ambulatory blood pressure profile (Dinamap 8AM-8PM, a reading every fifteen minutes). On the same day an echocardiogram was performed. We have correlated the left ventricular mass, the left ventricular mass index, the interventricular septum, the left ventricular cavity volume and the left ventricular posterior wall with casual blood pressure, average daily blood pressure standard deviation and variation coefficient for mean blood pressure, systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure. Analysis by sex, left ventricular mass index and blood pressure level (normotensive, hypertensive): we observe a left ventricular hypertrophy in normotensive males (18 p. 100) and hypertensive ones (39.8 p. 100), in normotensive females (15 p. 100) and hypertensive ones (33.3 p. 100). Overall in 420 patients: excellent correlation (p less than 0.001) between average daily blood pressure, casual blood pressure and the four echocardiographic parameters except for left ventricular cavity volume. But correlation is better (z test of Fisher) with average daily blood pressure than with casual blood pressure. No difference exists between results obtained in women (194) and men (226). Concerning variability, four observations: there exists a correlation between standard deviation, left ventricular mass index, interventricular septum, left ventricular posterior wall (only for standard deviation of MBP). No correlation with coefficient correlation except for the MBP with septum in women. The correlation for the standard deviation are weaker than with average daily blood pressure. They are better with the septum than with other echocardiographic parameters.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530951 TI - [Usefulness of a percutaneous endoprosthesis in the treatment of renal artery stenoses]. AB - In approximately 10 p. 100 of the cases stenosis of the renal artery cannot be satisfactorily dilated by percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA), and about 10 p. 100 of the patients successfully dilated have short-term restenosis. The excellent results obtained experimentally and clinically with the implantation of percutaneous intravascular stents have prompted us to use this material in the renal arteries. Stents were implanted in 10 patients who were followed up for periods of 1 to 16 months. Eight of them had restenosis after PTA; five of these stenoses were due to atheroma, 2 to fibromuscular dysplasia and 1 to Takayasu's disease. Two patients were implanted from the start owing to the insufficient results of PTA. Seven patients had severe arterial hypertension most probably of renovascular origin. Three patients had hypertension associated with moderate renal failure. Implantation was performed after a previous PTA. Adjuvant treatments and monitoring were the same in every case with, in particular, radiological control examination after one and six months. The implantations themselves were uneventful, and immediate control showed almost perfect anatomical restoration in all patients. On subsequent controls, arterial patency was preserved in all but one case. All patients showed significant clinical improvement. These results are most encouraging. They suggest that intravascular stents constitute an interesting solution when PTA is insufficient in the treatment of renal artery stenosis. PMID- 2530950 TI - [Vasoconstricting effect of endothelin. Interaction with atrial natriuretic factor, sodium nitroprusside, cicletanine and nifedipine]. AB - The contractile properties of endothelin (ENDO) and its interactions with some putative antagonists were investigated in endothelium free ring of rat aorta. ENDO induced a slowly developing contraction which is only partially affected by sodium nitroprusside (10(-8) M - 10(-5) M) and to a lesser extend by the calcium antagonist nifedipine (10(-8) M - 10(-5) M). Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) (10( 9) M - 10(-8) M), cicletanine (3.10(-5) M - 3.10(-4) M) and quercetin (10(-5) M - 10(-4) M) induced a dose dependent relaxation in ENDO precontracted preparations. ANF was less effective in inhibiting ENDO- than phenylephrine precontracted aorta. In addition, the ANF vasodilating effect upon ENDO contraction is potentiated by cicletanine (10(-4) M). The protein kinase C inhibitor phloretin, induced a dose-dependent relaxation (10(-5) M - 3.10(-4) M) in both ENDO and phorbol 12, 13-dibutyrate precontracted aorta. Whereas H7 (10(-5) M - 3.10(-4) M) an other protein kinase C inhibitor was only effective in ENDO-induced contraction. These data indicate that in isolated rat aorta, the contraction induced by ENDO does not mainly occur through membrane potential-dependent calcium channels. The vasoconstrictor mechanism of ENDO, which is different from the one triggered by phenylephrine could involve activation of protein kinase C. PMID- 2530952 TI - [Liquid transfers induced by a calcium antagonist and the atrial natriuretic peptide in binephrectomized rats]. AB - Peripheral edema without fluid retention is a common side effect of treatment with calcium antagonists (CA). The possibility that CA may alter extracellular fluid partition between plasma and interstitium, as suggested for atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) was explored in binephrectomized anesthetized rats by measuring changes in hematocrit and plasma protein concentration during infusion of synthetic 103-126 ANP (Wy 47.663) and the dihydropyridine derivate nicardipine. After a forty minutes infusion of ANP (1 microgram/kg/mn), hematocrit and plasma protein increased 9.1 +/- 0.3 and 3.9 +/- 0.3 p. 100 respectively; the calculated loss of plasma volume during ANP infusion was 14.5 +/- 1.1 p. 100 as compared to 3.9 +/- 0.6 p. 100 in rats receiving vehicle only. Infusion of nicardipine at 1 microgram/kg/mn increased hematocrit by 5.7 +/- 0.2 p. 100 (corresponding to a 9.1 +/- 0.9 p. 100 decrease in plasma volume), and plasma proteins by 3.7 +/- 0.2 p. 100. To document and localize an alteration in vascular leak of proteins induced by the drugs, albumin-bound Evans blue (EB) extravasation was measured spectrophotometrically in different tissues after extraction by methyl-formamide. Both ANP and nicardipine increased vascular penetration of EB-albumin, mainly in skeletal and cardiac muscle; no changes was observed in brain, liver, spleen as compared to rats receiving the vehicle; ANP but not nicardipine increase EB-albumin permeability in intestine. These results suggest that nicardipine as well as ANP reduce plasma volume by increasing vascular leak of fluids and macromolecules. PMID- 2530953 TI - [Hypertensive myocardial hypertrophy and rhythm disorders: 2 possible origins]. AB - It has been suggested that complex ventricular arrhythmias commonly occur in hypertensive patients with left ventricular hypertrophy. We have previously demonstrated that coronary artery ligation in anesthetized spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and their normotensive controls (WKY) resulted in a significantly increased incidence and duration of ventricular fibrillation in SHR compared with WKY. The object of the present study was to characterize the structural and electrophysiological abnormalities in hypertrophied hearts, associated with the occurrence of arrhythmias. We used a double tissue bath in which a ventricular strip was exposed simultaneously to normal and to altered conditions (low pH, hypoxia and high potassium). Electrical activity recorded using standard micro-electrode techniques showed the occurrence of arrhythmias in all preparations and the development of major alterations in conduction (a conduction block appeared at 11 +/- 1 mn in SHR vs 16 +/- 1 mn in WKY, p less than 0.05), and maximal upstroke velocity (Vmax values before and 3 mn after the beginning of ischemia were 229 +/- 12 to 46 +/- 7 v/s for the SHR and 227 +/- 10 to 106 +/- 12 v/s for the WKY; p less than 0.001). These changes were associated in hypertrophied ventricles with a marked sub-endocardial collagen fibrosis as estimated by the use of automated image analysis (subendocardial collagen density = 4.39 +/- 0.34 p. 100 in SHR vs 1.66 +/- 0.15 p. 100 in WKY; p less than 0.001). Action potential duration measured using conventional glass micro-electrodes in a single chamber tissue bath revealed a highly significant difference (p less than 0.001) in APD 90 p. 100 of papillary muscles between SHR (114.7 +/- 2.8 ms) and WKY (76.9 +/- 1.7 ms). The addition of tetra-ethylammonium to block potassium channels induced triggered activity arising from early afterdepolarizations only in muscles hypertrophied SHR hearts.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530954 TI - [Early occlusion and dissection in coronary angioplasty. Apropos of 855 patients]. AB - Between June 1981 and may 1987, 855 patients were treated by transluminal coronary angioplasty at the Cardiovascular Hospital, Lyon. 778 primary successes (84 p. 100) were obtained, 84 of the 855 patients (9.8 p. 100) developed occlusion and/or angiographically proven dissection within the first 24 hours. These patients fell into two groups; group A (n = 35) with occlusion and occlusive dissection, group B (n = 49) with dissection but without coronary blood flow reduction. Among the parameters examined, only three concerning the morphology of the stenosis were associated with a statistically more frequent occurrence of occlusion: eccentric stenosis (p less than 0.05), irregular stenosis (p less than 0.01) and stenosis in a curvilinear segment (p less than 0.01). In addition, among the 84 patients with occlusion and/or dissection, 14 had myocardial infarction and 2 died during the 24 hours following angioplasty. Emergency aorto-coronary bypass was performed in 12 cases, mostly after failure of redilatation. Redilatation was carried out in 26 cases and was effective in 14. PMID- 2530955 TI - [Extensive coronary dissection after percutaneous transluminal angioplasty. Apropos of a case]. AB - The authors report a rare case of very extensive dissection of the right coronary artery immediately after angioplasty; the lesion was totally asymptomatic. Coronary bypass was performed 4 months later without complications and with a satisfactory result at a 15-month follow-up. Coronary dissection during angioplasty is usually located at the site of dilatation: its incidence varies from 6 to 13 p. 100 depending on the series reported. Facilitating factors are analysed, and the management of this complication is discussed: repeat angioplasty and/or emergency or elective coronary bypass, depending on the presence or absence of coronary thrombosis and symptoms, on the importance of the territory threatened and on the quality of collateral circulation. PMID- 2530956 TI - [Value of the measurement of pulse wave velocity in high level sportsmen. Practical applications]. AB - Arterial compliance is an essential factor of cardio-vascular performance during physical exercise, as cardiac out-put, and peripheral arterial resistance. New not bloody investigations methods allow now to study more easily this clinical data. We wished to compare arterial compliance of high level sportsmen sample, with sedentary people sample. We measured the arterial pulse wave velocity at the arm, between sub-collarbone artery and radial artery. We used doppler with continuous transmission and probe of 8 MHz. Sedentary people are sixteen men with twenty years of average age, and physical activity not so much than two hours for a week. Sportmen are thirteen, with seventeen and a half years of average age, and physical activity about ten hours for a week. The study of the pulse wave velocity showed significative differences between the two samples. 5,09 m/s on average for sedentary people; 7,49m/s on average for sportsmen. This difference is significant. The pulse wave velocity of people submitted to repetitive physical exercises increase so, arterial compliance must be decreased. The decrease of arterial compliance is the same with people with high blood-pressure. She might be responsible for cardiac hypertrophy-dilatation, frequent with high level sportsmen. She might be accompanied by structural deteriorations of arterial wall, confirming that high blood pressure of repetitive efforts is an attack for cardio-vascular system. PMID- 2530957 TI - [Evaluation by Doppler echocardiography of systolic and diastolic functions of the left ventricle of the athlete's heart]. AB - A doppler-echocardiographuc study of left ventricular hypertrophy and systolic functions was performed in 99 professional cyclists and 26 age, body surface and blood pressure-matched controls. The following T-mode echocardiographic parameters were determined: wall thickness and cavitary diameter, left ventricular mass (LVM), fibre shortening fraction (FSF) and ejection fraction (EF). The following doppler parameters were measured at the annulus (a) and tip (p) of the mitral valve leaflets: protodiastolic velocity peak (E), velocity peak during atrial systole (A) and A/E ratio. Compared with controls, the cyclists showed a significant increase of LVM (305 +/- 53 vs 174 +/- 41 g, p less than 0.0001) and of the h/R ratio of mean wall thickness (h) to cavitary radius (R) (0.40 +/- 0.04 vs 0.35 +/- 0.06, p less than 0.001). There was no significant difference between the two groups as regards FSF, EF and protodiastolic filling peak (E). In contrast, subjects in the cyclist group showed a significant increase of Ap (0.39 +/- 0.07 vs 0.47 +/- 0.09, p less than 0.001), Aa (0.36 +/- 0.07 vs 0.41 +/- 0.08, p less than 0.01) and A/Ep (0.54 +/- 0.12 vs 0.62 vs 0.62 +/- 0.11, p less than 0.0001). It is concluded that professional cyclists have an increase in size of their left ventricle and that repercussions of this enlargement on ventricular filling only appear during the atrial systole and are related to a slower heart rate. PMID- 2530958 TI - [Contribution of Doppler echocardiography and thallium in cases of major ST segment depression in athletes]. AB - False-positive responses to exercise tests have been reported as been more frequent in athletes than in the general population and attributed to physiological hypertrophy of the athlete's heart. In this study, we have investigated the significance of major ST depression (-3.55 +/- 1.8 mm) in a group of 13 athletes aged 40 +/- 9 years who had normal coronary angiography. All subjects underwent a standard exercise test followed by a second one after administration of nitroglycerin; the post-test probability of coronary was evaluated by multivariate analysis of the results. Myocardial perfusion was studied in 9 subjects by stress thallium 201 scintigraphy, and the data obtained were compared with those of angiography. Left ventricular hypertrophy was systematically looked for by calculating the myocardial mass index at echocardiography. The subjects were also investigated for possible alteration of the diastolic function, using doppler ultrasound. The mean follow-up period was 5 +/- 2 years. The mean performance at exercise tests was 238 +/- 118 watts. The Q wave significantly increased at exercise (-0.61 +/- 0.8; p less than 0.05), whereas the R wave remained constant (-0.95 +/- 4.5 mm; N.S.). The mean probability or coronary disease was 0.49 +/- 0.41, which justified the thallium scintigraphy test. This test was abnormal in 8 out of 9 cases. The myocardial mass index was slightly increased up to 138 +/- 25 g/m2, reflecting a very moderate physiological hypertrophy, as testified by the normality of diastolic function related to age in 8/9 cases. There was no obvious correlation between ST depression amplitude and myocardial mass index.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2530959 TI - Coronary arteries and athlete's heart. AB - An increase of coronary artery size after endurance training has been suggested by experimental data on animals and anecdotal autopsy reports in men. However, systematic studies on in vivo coronary anatomy of athletes have been lacking so far. We utilized two-dimensional echocardiography (2DE) to explore non-invasively the coronary anatomy of endurance athletes. Twenty long-distance runners (LDR) and 20 matched sedentary controls (SC) were studied initially. Visualization of the ostia and main trunks of-right (RCA) and left coronary artery (LCA) was obtained in 90-100 p. 100 of LDR and 70-75 p, 100 of SC. Collateral branches of LCA (anterior descending artery and circumflex branch) and RCA were visualized respectively in 60-70 p. 100 and 30-40 p, 100 of cases. The very good quality of images made possible the measurement of LCA and RCA size. LDR as a group had significantly larger coronary arteries than SC: this was associated with significant left and right ventricular enlargement and hypertrophy. These results have been further confirmed in a large survey of triathletes, swimmers, water polo players, young LDR and prepubescent football players. Increase of coronary artery size is a well-documented effect of endurance training which can be easily investigated with 2DE, However, the large interindividual variability and the observation of very large coronary arteries in adolescent subjects suggest that genetic factors may also play a role in determining the final size of the coronary vessels. PMID- 2530960 TI - Absence of hepatitis B surface antigenemia after vaccination. AB - Vaccination against hepatitis B is readily available and provides safe and effective immunization for individuals at increased risk for this disease. However, since the available vaccines employ a protein consisting of hepatitis B surface antigen, the question has arisen whether a detectable surface antigenemia might occur in recently vaccinated individuals. Employing two current immunoassays for hepatitis B surface antigen, we could not detect this marker in individuals either 1 hour or 24 hours after vaccination. We therefore conclude that the presence of surface antigen in the blood cannot be attributed to recent vaccination. PMID- 2530961 TI - Concurrent musculoskeletal pain in a patient with symptomatic lower extremity arterial insufficiency. AB - The etiology of back and lower extremity pain can, at times, be difficult to differentiate. This is especially true in cases where two pain-producing conditions coexist. Such difficulties have been reported in cases of coexisting vascular and neurogenic claudication. We report the case of a 66-year-old woman with concurrent musculoskeletal pain and hip claudication. Her arterial insufficiency was initially masked by her diffuse pain complaints and only became apparent to us after successful treatment of her soft tissue problems. We caution physicians to be aware of coexisting musculoskeletal pain that may mask significant underlying pathology. PMID- 2530962 TI - Interaction of 5'-deoxy-5-fluorouridine and methotrexate. A basis for reduced methotrexate toxicity. AB - Methotrexate (MTX) toxicity is reduced significantly by a non-toxic dose of 5' deoxy-5-fluorouridine (5'dFUr). Changes in the hematopoietic system (platelets, erythrocytes, leukocytes, and hematocrit), ileal tissue, and body weight were used as parameters to assess toxicity. MTX treatment alone resulted in: (a) a reduction of body weight; (b) significantly morphological changes in ileal tissue; and (c) a marked decrease in the hematopoietic parameters. Sequential treatment with MTX followed by 5'dFUr resulted in reversal of MTX depression of animal body weight and ileal tissue necrosis, and partial reversal in MTX toxicity to the hematopoietic system. Also, for all parameters studied, there were no significant differences between scheduling of MTX after a priming dose of 5'dFUr, 5'dFUr alone, and control. Hence, this study suggests that 5'dFUr is a pharmacological antidote for MTX toxicity, and, therefore, 5'dFUr in combination with MTX may provide a basis whereby more intense and effective MTX therapy may be given. PMID- 2530963 TI - [The scientific legacy of F.M. Lazarenko (on the centenary of his birth)]. PMID- 2530964 TI - [The Uzbek Republic academic-scientific-practical pathologicoanatomic associations--a basis for the further development of Soviet pathological anatomy]. AB - The above complex in the Uzbek SSR Ministry of Health comprises the chair of pathology of Tashkent Medical Institute, laboratory of pathomorphology of the Research Institute of Pediatrics, Research Institute of the Regional Medicine of the Uzbek SSR Ministry of Health and Republican Centralised Bureau of Pathology. The results of the activity of this complex is analysed and its role in the improving the pathology service, teaching and research in pathology is outlined. PMID- 2530965 TI - [Vladimir Petrovich Zaitsev (on the centenary of his birth)]. PMID- 2530966 TI - Differentiation of Alzheimer's disease and Huntington's disease with the Dementia Rating Scale. AB - Patients with dementia of the Alzheimer type (DAT) and Huntington's disease (HD) were assessed with the Dementia Rating Scale, a brief mental status examination that provides a global dementia score and subtest scores for attention, initiation, construction, conceptualization, and memory capacities. Although the patients with DAT and the patients with HD were precisely matched in terms of total Dementia Rating Scale score, different subtest score profiles emerged. Patients with DAT were more impaired than patients with HD on the Memory subtest, whereas patients with HD were more impaired than patients with DAT on the initiation subtest. These results are indicative of qualitative differences in the cognitive impairment of the two disorders and demonstrate that such differences can be elucidated with brief mental status examinations. PMID- 2530967 TI - Characteristics of anion-stimulated Mg-ATPase from rat parotid gland secretory granules. AB - Magnesium-dependent adenosine triphosphatase (Mg-ATPase) was assayed in highly purified secretory granules. The enzyme was stimulated by sulphite and isethionate, unaffected by chloride and inhibited by fluoride and thiocyanate. Inhibition was not related to the permeant properties of the anion, but the relative inhibitory potency of the anions was similar to that in some other studies of secretory granule ATPases. Maximum contribution to the anion stimulated ATPase by contaminating mitochondria was estimated at 9.3%. The enzyme was inhibited by the stilbene disulphonic acid inhibitor, 4-acetamido-4' isothiocyano-2,2'-stilbene disulphonic acid (SITS). The IC50 was 0.16 mM in the absence of sulphite and increased in the presence of sulphite. The relation of the inhibition by SITS to sulphite was complex. Both Vmax and Km parameters were changed by SITS. Furthermore the data are consistent with the presence of two anion-stimulated ATPases. The ATPase was sensitive to tributyltin, dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCCD) and oligomycin, only moderately sensitive to azide, probenecid and N-ethylmaleimide (NEM) and rather insensitive to carbonylcyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazone (CCCP) and sulphisoxazole. ATPase activity was stimulated by calcium both in the presence and absence of magnesium. These findings suggest that the ATPase(s) present in parotid secretory granules is unique among secretory granule ATPases. PMID- 2530968 TI - The influence of mixing ratio on the working time, strength and wear of composites. AB - The influence of varying the paste-to-paste ratio of chemically initiated composites on the working time, diametral tensile strength and in vitro 'occlusal' wear was investigated. If the mixing ratio was varied, the working time was not equally affected for the various brands. This is explained by different relative inhibitor concentrations in the pastes. Within reasonable deviations from the 1:1 ratio, no significant influence on the diametral tensile strength occurred. Wear properties as determined by a simulated occlusal wear test on three posterior composites, was more sensitive to the mixing ratio. PMID- 2530969 TI - Sacroiliac dysfunction. PMID- 2530970 TI - Sequential alternating medroxyprogesterone acetate and epirubicin in the treatment of advanced breast cancer. AB - A phase II trial of sequential oral medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) and epirubicin was performed in 12 postmenopausal women with advanced breast cancer. Patients received MPA at a dose of 500 mg twice daily by mouth for 25 days. Following a 3-day washout, epirubicin was administered in a dose of 75 mg/m2. After a 3-week hiatus, the cycle was recommenced with MPA. Responses were evaluated at the end of the first 25-day period of MPA and following the end of the first cycle. Partial responses were obtained in two patients (17%)--one after the first 25 days of MPA and the other at the end of the first cycle. One of the patients had chest wall disease and the other had hepatic involvement with ascites. Minimal toxicity was experienced from this regimen and the response durations were 2 and 7 months. The response rate reported here does not warrant the further development of sequential therapy. The dose intensity of both MPA and epirubicin are compromised and may be the cause of this low response rate. PMID- 2530971 TI - Practical experience with commercial embryo transfer in pigs. AB - Embryo transfer was used to introduce new genetic material into 5 commercial specific-pathogen-free pig herds in south eastern Queensland in order to reduce the risk of disease transmission. The embryos were collected surgically from gilts and sows and transferred surgically to synchronised recipient sows on the farms within 12 h. A total of 751 embryos were collected from 37 donors of which 665 were transferred to 39 recipients. Thirty-one (79.5%) farrowed with an average litter size of 8.1 +/- 3.0. The methods used to synchronise oestrus and superovulate the donors, together with a detailed description of the surgical technique are presented and discussed in relation to practical problems and limitations of the use of embryo transfer in swine. PMID- 2530972 TI - Myocardial characteristics of thyroxine stimulated hypertrophy. A structural and functional study. AB - The effects of thyroxine-stimulated hypertrophy (TSH) were studied in the porcine left ventricular myocardium. Hypertrophy was produced in six adult pigs by administration of triiodothyronine (1 mg/kg; i.v.) for eight days. Six pigs served as controls. The degree of hypertrophy, determined by left ventricular-to body weight ratio, was 47%. With hypertrophy there was a significant increase in heart rate, blood pressure and myocardial blood flows. Minimal coronary resistance measured during adenosine infusion was lower in the TSH group compared with the control group. Anatomic studies revealed a balanced proliferative response of mitochondria, myofibrils and the t-tubular system during TSH. Analysis of the microvasculature indicated that the capillary and arteriolar beds both experienced growth which paralleled myocyte growth during TSH. These results suggest that thyroxine administration promotes angiogenesis in the microvascular bed which provides a partial anatomic rationale for the lowered minimal coronary resistance. PMID- 2530974 TI - Cardiovascular effects of forskolin and phosphodiesterase-III inhibitors. AB - In the first part of this presentation, data is reported on the hemodynamic effects of forskolin given to patients with dilated cardiomyopathy in a concentration of 3 micrograms/kg/min and 4 micrograms/kg/min. At the lower dosage, forskolin had no effect on dP/dtmax, cardiac index, ejection fraction, or myocardial oxygen consumption. With small dosages of dobutamine, however, an increase of all four parameters has been observed in the same group of patients. Systemic vascular resistance and left ventricular enddiastolic pressure fell with forskolin given at the lower concentration. Forskolin administered at a dosage of 4 micrograms/kg/min induced an increase in dP/dtmax by 19% and a 16% rise in heart rate. However, these changes were associated with symptomatic flush syndromes. Therefore, forskolin may serve as a vasodilating substance in lower concentrations, but cannot be used as a positive inotropic compound because of the subjective symptoms. In the second part, a study is reported in which an anti ischemic effect of the phosphodiesterase inhibitor enoximone was observed in patients with proven significant coronary heart disease. With respect to the hemodynamic parameters, the most striking findings were the decreases in left ventricular enddiastolic pressure and systemic vascular resistance. Furthermore, when left ventricular stroke work index was plotted as a function of the left ventricular enddiastolic pressure, enoximone shifted the left ventricular function curve to the left. Therefore, the anti-ischemic effect of enoximone may not only be due to a reduction in preload and afterload but may rather reflect an effect on diastolic compliance. Studies with intracoronary injections of enoximone and animal experiments support this hypothesis. PMID- 2530973 TI - Comparison between isomyosin pattern and contractility of right ventricular myocytes isolated from rats with right cardiac hypertrophy. AB - The contractile properties of single rat cardiac cells isolated from normal and hypertrophied right ventricles have been investigated. These have been correlated with the isoenzyme composition of the whole ventricle. Right cardiac hypertrophy was induced by injecting rats with monocrotaline, an alkaloid which induces severe pulmonary hypertension. Ca2+ ATPase activity and myosin alpha-chain percentage were decreased in the hypertrophied right ventricle as compared with that of control rats. The contraction amplitude and speed of shortening of the isolated cells were measured using an inverted microscope, video camera, and edge detection device. Cells from the hypertrophied ventricle showed a significantly decreased contraction amplitude and speed of shortening in maximally activating concentrations of isoprenaline. A statistically significant correlation existed between myosin alpha-chain percentage and both contraction amplitude and speed of shortening in maximum isoprenaline. This was true when all cells studied were included, as well as within the hypertrophy group. A similar, although not always statistically significant, correlation was observed when cells were maximally activated with calcium. These results suggest that changes in isomyosin pattern that occur in cardiac hypertrophy produce alterations in contraction amplitude and speed of shortening which can be detected in single cells isolated from the hypertrophied ventricles. Isolated cells appear to give responses representative of the function of the whole heart. PMID- 2530975 TI - Separation between vasodilation and positive inotropism by assessment of myocardial energetics in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy. AB - Phosphodiesterase inhibitors have vasodilating and positive inotropic properties, and these compounds may have energy saving effects due to vasodilation and energy consuming effects due to inotropism. In order to differentiate between the effects, it is necessary to relate myocardial oxygen consumption to its hemodynamic determinants. Myocardial oxygen consumption per beat was related to the following parameters: dp/dtmax, mean velocity of fiber shortening, pressure volume work, peak developed wall stress, and stress-time integral. The best linear relationship was found between myocardial oxygen consumption per beat and the corresponding stress-time integral (r = 0.71; p less than 0.001) in patients with idiopathic dilative cardiomyopathy. Using i.v. nitroprusside as a pure vasodilator, myocardial oxygen consumption per beat and stress-time integral decreased along this established relationship. In contrast, the phosphodiesterase inhibitor enoximone given intravenously decreased the stress-time integral significantly more than the myocardial oxygen consumption per beat. We conclude from these data that phosphodiesterase inhibitors possess vasodilating properties which reduce the myocardial oxygen demand. In addition, they do have positive inotropic effects which increase the myocardial oxygen demand. Myocardial oxygen consumption always reflects the sum of both effects. The balance between the energy saving and the energy consuming effects may determine the efficacy of phosphodiesterase inhibitors, especially in the long-term treatment of chronic heart failure. PMID- 2530976 TI - Energy requirements of contraction and relaxation: implications for inotropic stimulation of the failing heart. AB - It is likely that the myocardium in the patient with congestive heart failure is unable to provide enough chemical energy to meet its mechanical requirements. If this interpretation is correct, inotropic stimulation, by increasing energy utilization, could contribute to the progressive myocardial cell death that characterizes end-stage cardiac hypertrophy. This deterioration could be delayed by the depressed myocardial contractility in the chronically overloaded heart, which reduces myocardial energy utilization, and delayed by changes in the expression of myosin isoforms that improve cardiac efficiency. An important goal of therapy in congestive heart failure, therefore, may be to reduce energy expenditure by unloading the failing heart and, in some cases, by administration of negative inotropic drugs. PMID- 2530977 TI - Genetic and non-genetic control of myocardial calcium. AB - Some aspects of the genetic and non-genetic control of the amount and rate of calcium cycled during steady-state activation of papillary muscles from right ventricular rabbit myocardium are presented. Genetic reorganization of the intracellular structure of the myocardium is achieved by producing right ventricular pressure overload and thyrotoxic hypertrophy. The mechanical performance of the pressure overload heart is slowed while time to peak tension is increased. These changes are associated with an increase in myothermal economy. In thyrotoxic hypertrophy the rate of mechanical performance is increased while time to peak tension is decreased. These alterations are associated with a decrease in myothermal economy. Tension-independent heat is used as an index of calcium cycling. In pressure overload hearts the amount and rate of calcium cycling is decreased. In contrast in thyrotoxic hypertrophy the amount of calcium cycled is unchanged while the rate is increased. In the pressure overload hearts there is a decrease in sarcoplasmic reticular (SR) Ca++ ATPase, whereas in the thyrotoxic preparations the message is increased. The change in the rate of calcium uptake in pressure overload and thyrotoxic hearts is correlated with a change in the amount of SR Ca++ ATPase mRNA. Calcium cycling was also altered by non-genetic inotropic intervention. Isoproterenol (1 microM) increases the amount of calcium cycled during each contraction relaxation cycle and the rate at which it is removed. These alterations are associated with an increase in force and a foreshortened twitch. Incubating the papillary muscle in high calcium (11 mM) also increases the force and the amount of calcium released into the cytosol. Under these circumstances the rate of uptake is not significantly increased and, accordingly, the isometric twitch is not foreshortened. In the presence of verapamil (14 microM) the peak twitch force is decreased and the isometric myogram is foreshortened. These changes are associated with a decrease in the amount of calcium released during activation and the rate at which it is removed. PMID- 2530978 TI - cDNA cloning and sequencing of phospholamban from pig stomach smooth muscle. AB - Phospholamban cDNA from pig stomach smooth muscle was cloned and sequenced. The 737-nucleotide-residue cDNA contained an open reading frame of 156 nucleotide residues encoding a peptide of 52 amino acid residues (Mr 6080). This peptide shares 100% sequence identity with dog cardiac-muscle phospholamban. It differs from rabbit cardiac-muscle and slow-twitch skeletal-muscle phospholamban only at position 2, which is a glutamic acid residue in rabbit phospholamban, but an aspartic acid residue in the pig smooth-muscle protein. Northern-blot analysis reveals the presence of several phospholamban mRNAs in smooth muscle, but a 900 nucleotide-residue and a 2800-nucleotide-residue transcript predominate. PMID- 2530979 TI - Alkalinization stimulates the purified plasma-membrane Ca2+ pump by increasing its Ca2+ affinity. AB - The finding that negatively charged phospholipids activate the plasma-membrane (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-ATPase and that polycations counteract this stimulation suggest that negative charges in the environment of the ATPase protein could be important for its function. The aim of the present work was to investigate whether changing the charges on the ATPase protein itself by modifying the pH within the physiological range affects the activity of the purified plasma-membrane Ca2+ pump from stomach smooth muscle. Increasing the pH from 6.9 to 7.4 and using 1,2 bis(o-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetra-acetic acid (BAPTA) as a Ca2+ buffer, doubled the ATPase activity at 0.3 microM-Ca2+ in the presence of 100% phosphatidylcholine (PC) or after substituting 20% of the PC by negatively charged phospholipids PtdIns, PtdIns4P, phosphatidylserine and phosphatidic acid. This stimulatory effect was due to an increased affinity of the enzyme for Ca2+, while the Vmax. remained unaffected. In the case of PtdIns(4,5)P2, a stimulatory effect upon alkalinization was only observed at a PtdIns(4,5)P2 concentration of 10%. When a concentration of 20% was used, alkalinization decreased the Vmax. and no stimulatory effect on the ATPase at 0.3 microM-Ca2+ could be observed. Alkalinization not only stimulated the purified Ca2+ pump, but it also increased the activity of the enzyme in a plasma-membrane-enriched fraction from stomach smooth muscle by a factor of 2.06. The ionophore A23187-induced Ca2+ uptake in closed inside-out vesicles also increased by a factor of 2.54 if the pH was changed from 6.9 to 7.4. This finding indicates that the effect of pH is most likely to be exerted at the cytoplasmic site of the Ca2+ pump protein. PMID- 2530980 TI - The distribution of glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol anchored proteins is differentially regulated by serum and insulin. AB - Glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchored proteins are surveyed in two insulin sensitive cell types by surface labeling and phospholipase C-induced release into the medium. Serum starvation selectively increases both the number and intensity of a subset of GPI-anchored proteins. After serum starvation, loss of cell surface GPI-anchored proteins is induced acutely by either serum re-exposure or insulin, suggesting that hormonal treatment may promote the release of these proteins from the cell surface. PMID- 2530981 TI - The effect of gossypol and 6-aminonicotinamide on tumor cell metabolism: a 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopic study. AB - 31P-Magnetic resonance spectroscopy has been used to assess the changes in the levels of water-soluble phosphate pools in T47-D breast carcinoma cells induced by the antimitochondrial drugs, gossypol and 6-aminonicotinamide. A decrease in the NTP/Pi ratio occurred after treatment with gossypol. No change in the NTP/Pi ratio occurred on treatment with 6-aminonicotinamide; however, a substantial accumulation of 6-phosphogluconate was observed. Pretreatment of T47-D cells with gossypol prevented the accumulation of 6-phosphogluconate. This facile and non invasive approach suggests that the oxidative part of the pentose-phosphate shuttle is an important source of reducing equivalents in T47-D cells. This pathway may prove to be a useful target for site-directed drug attack in carcinoma cell lines that require large quantities of NADP for the synthesis of fatty acids and steroids. PMID- 2530982 TI - R1881 regulation of steroidogenesis in cultured testicular cells. AB - The influence of a synthetic androgen R1881 upon hCG stimulated steroidogenesis in cultured rat testicular cells was investigated. Testicular cells were cultured for 8 days in medium alone and thereafter reincubated for 48 h with appropriate treatments before the collection of media for steroid RIA. Addition of R1881 (10( 6) M) resulted in an overall decrease of hCG (0.3-10 ng/ml) stimulated pregnenolone and progesterone production by cultured cells. The conversion of exogenous steroids of the delta 4 pathway (progesterone,17 alpha-OH-P and delta 4 A) was also studied in cultures supplemented with cyanoketone (10(-5) M) and/or spironolactone (10(-5) M) to prevent endogenous testosterone production. R1881 inhibited progesterone and 17 alpha-OH-P conversion to testosterone (T) and was ineffective when delta 4-A served as precursor for T biosynthesis. The inhibitory effect of R1881 upon Testosterone production was prevented by concomitant treatment with CPA. These observations suggest that R1881 decreases the hCG stimulated testosterone production via inhibition of CSCCE,3 beta-HSD,C17-20 Lyase and likely 17 alpha-Hydroxylase, whereas no effect on 17 beta-HSD could be observed. PMID- 2530983 TI - Measurements of glycolytic flux rate in brown adipocytes. Effects of insulin, noradrenaline and streptozotocin diabetes. AB - Glycolytic flux was estimated in brown adipocytes by [3-3H]-glucose detritiation. Without insulin the process was slightly stimulated by noradrenaline or palmitate. Insulin stimulated glucose detritiation by 4-fold. Noradrenaline stimulated the process in the presence of insulin and synergism between these hormones was observed. Palmitate did not stimulate glucose detritiation in the presence of insulin suggesting that the effect of noradrenaline is not secondary to stimulation of lipolysis. With insulin, cells from streptozotocin-diabetic rats showed lower rates of glucose detritiation. Extracts from these cells also had lower maximum activities of phosphofructokinase. PMID- 2530984 TI - Effect of alpha factor pheromone on the activity of enzymes which catalyze the synthesis and hydrolysis of cell wall structural polymers from Saccharomyces cerevisiae. AB - Cells of Saccharomyces cerevisiae of the a mating type treated with alpha factor contain an increased amount of structural polymers (beta-glucans and chitin) in their cell walls and, consequently, exhibit higher glucan synthetase and chitin synthetase activities than untreated cells. However, alpha factor has no detectable effect on the activities of these enzymes when they are assayed, "in vitro", in the presence of the pheromone. On the other hand, the activity of beta glucanases remains constant during the time that growth of a cells is kept arrested by alpha factor at the G1 phase of the cell division cycle and starts to increase when budding of the cells is reinitiated. PMID- 2530985 TI - Determination of brain concentrations of 8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)tetralin by liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection. AB - A liquid chromatographic method using electrochemical detection is described for the assay of brain concentrations of 8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)tetralin (8-OH DPAT), centrally acting serotonin agonists selective for the 5HT-1A subtype of serotonin receptors. The method is sensitive to approximately 5 ng/g concentrations. After a 1mg/kg s.c. dose of 8-OH-DPAT in rats, its concentration in whole brain declined rapidly during the first 4 hr with a half-life of 26 min. At 30 min after a 1 mg/kg s.c. dose of 8-OH-DPAT, concentrations were approximately equal in hypothalamus, striatum, hippocampus, cerebellum and brain stem but were slightly lower in midbrain. 8-OH-DPAT disappeared from hypothalamus, midbrain and hippocampus at similar rates during the first 90 min after a 1 mg/kg s.c dose. Concentrations of 8-OH-DPAT in whole brain were markedly higher after s.c. than after i.p. administration of 8-OH-DPAT, consistent with earlier data showing 8-OH-DPAT to be more potent when given s.c. than when given i.p. in decreasing brain concentrations of 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid. Pretreatment with proadifen (SKF-525A), an inhibitor of microsomal drug metabolism, slightly increased brain concentrations of 8-OH-DPAT. Pindolol, which antagonized the elevation of serum corticosterone concentration by 8-OH-DPAT, did not alter brain concentrations of 8-OH-DPAT. The analytical method should be useful in correlating brain concentrations of 8-OH-DPAT with various neurochemical, behavioral or other functional effects that have been described for this compound. PMID- 2530986 TI - Separation of different receptor-mediated effects of a prostaglandin H2 analogue (U46619) on human platelets by means of human granulocytic elastase and chymotrypsin. AB - Previous investigations indicated two classes of thromboxane A2/prostaglandin H2 (TXA2/PGH2) receptors on human platelets and suggested that shape change and myosin light chain phosphorylation correlated with the occupancy of high affinity receptors while serotonin release was related to a putative low affinity binding component (Morinelli TA et al., Am J Physiol 253: H1035-H1043, 1987). The current study shows that chymotrypsin destroyed three receptor-mediated responses of platelets to U46619 (a TXA2/PGH2 agonist), i.e. shape change, myosin light chain phosphorylation and serotonin release. Human granulocyte elastase selectively inactivated platelet ability to release serotonin following stimulation with U46619, but it did not affect significantly shape change and myosin light chain phosphorylation. In conclusion, it is possible to separate different receptor mediated effects of U46619 on human platelets by means of human granulocytic elastase and chymotrypsin. PMID- 2530987 TI - Reversible, hepatic, lysosomal phospholipidosis in rat induced by subchronic daily administration of trospectomycin sulfate. AB - Trospectomycin sulfate is an experimental aminocyclitol antibiotic which has been shown previously to induce the formation of cytoplasmic lamellar bodies in rat and dog liver in subchronic experiments. The effect of repeated daily administration of trospectomycin sulfate on hepatic phospholipid levels and activities of marker enzymes for subcellular organelles was examined. Rats were treated for 30 or 90 days with 0, 50, or 250 mg/kg/day of trospectomycin sulfate prior to being killed, and another group was dosed for 90 days and then allowed to recover for 79 days prior to sacrifice. Transmission electron microscopy showed the presence of lamellar bodies in hepatocytes in both 50 and 250 mg/kg groups at 90 days but no other apparent changes in cellular morphology. Total phospholipids were increased significantly (1.6-fold) only at 90 days (P less than 0.01) and only in the 250 mg/kg group. Phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylinositol, and two acidic lysosomal phospholipids, bis(monoacylglycero)phosphate and acylphosphatidylglycerol, accounted for 42, 35, and 21% of the increase in total phospholipids. Changes in the activities of marker enzymes were generally confined to the 250 mg/kg group at 90 days, with the largest and most significant increases being in the lysosomal enzymes acid phosphatase and hexosaminidase (P less than 0.01). Levels of all phospholipids and marker enzymes, with the exception of succinate dehydrogenase, were not significantly different from controls 79 days after cessation of dosing, and lamellar bodies had disappeared. We conclude that repeated trospectomycin sulfate treatment in rat induces a reversible, dose- and time-dependent lysosomal phospholipidosis in liver which is characterized by an increase in lysosomal enzymes and selected anionic phospholipids. PMID- 2530989 TI - [Structure of the recombination zone during abnormal excision of the transducing bacteriophage lambda plac9]. AB - Investigating molecular mechanism of illegitimate recombinations in prokaryote we study transducing bacteriophages of the lambda lac series. We have carried out physical mapping of bacteriophage lambda plac9 DNA and, by comparing the obtained results with the data on the structure of lambda DNA and lac operon of E. coli, located the phage-bacterial junction corresponding to the lambda-lac9 abnormal excision and elucidated the nucleotide sequence around the junction. It led to the primary structure of phage and bacterial segments in the lysogenic bacterium which took part in the recombinational act leading to the abnormal excision and lambda lac9 formation. Structural homology of the partners in the lambda plac9 excision proved to be lower than in case of the earlier studied lambda plac5 and lambda plac10 whose excision proceeded regioselectively. Various aspects of the crossover area, including the crossover point's probable position and enzymic systems participating in the abnormal excision, are discussed. PMID- 2530988 TI - [Character of two mutations of the beta-globin gene in beta 0-thalassemia in Azerbaijan]. AB - Molecular nature of two beta 0-thalassaemia-causing mutations in beta-globin gene in Azerbaijanian population has been elucidated, viz., C-T transition in 39 codon (nonsense mutation) and previously unknown G deletion in 82/83 codons. PMID- 2530990 TI - Elevated plasma levels of alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor-plasmin complex in patients with rheumatic diseases. Possible role of fibrinolytic mechanism in vasculitis. AB - Plasma levels of alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor (alpha 2PI) and alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor-plasmin complex (alpha 2 PIPC) were measured by sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, using a recently developed monoclonal anti-alpha 2PI antibody, in patients with collagen diseases. Twenty patients had systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), 4 of whom also had vasculitis, 11 patients had rheumatoid arthritis (RA), 4 of whom also had vasculitis, and 5 patients had other types of vasculitis. There was no significant difference in alpha 2PI levels between the 3 patient groups and the control groups. However, plasma levels of alpha 2PIPC in all 3 patient groups were significantly higher than those in the control group. Moreover, plasma concentrations of alpha 2PIPC in SLE patients with vasculitis were statistically significantly higher than those in SLE patients without vasculitis. These concentrations were also higher in RA patients with vasculitis than in RA patients without vasculitis, although the difference was not statistically significant. Our findings indicate that measurement of plasma alpha 2PIPC levels is useful for detecting and evaluating the severity and activity of vasculitis in patients with collagen diseases. PMID- 2530991 TI - Solitary plasmacytoma of the skull revealed by a mononeuritis multiplex associated with immune complex vasculitis. AB - We describe a patient with solitary plasmacytoma of the skull, in whom mononeuritis multiplex was the presenting manifestation. Some features of the POEMS syndrome (plasma cell dyscrasia with polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, monoclonal [M] protein, skin changes), including thrombocytosis, were found. Muscle and nerve biopsies disclosed a small vessel hypersensitivity type vasculitis and complement-fixing immune complex deposits in vessel walls. Removal of the plasmacytoma resulted in clinical improvement and clearance of the vasculitis and immune complex deposits. PMID- 2530992 TI - Public health in the workplace. Part I: Historical perspective and the role of the nurse. PMID- 2530993 TI - Changes in exploratory behaviour of hamsters following treatment with 8-hydroxy-2 (di-n-propylamino)tetralin. AB - The influence of the centrally active 5-HT1A agonist 8-hydroxy-2-(di-n propylamino)tetralin (8-OH-DPAT) on the exploration of objects was studied in hamsters, using a radioactographic method. This spatial paradigm allows the study of the behavioural expression of underlying locomotor and cognitive (attentional, mnemonic, representative) mechanisms. The drug was found to enhance the cognitive components of the exploratory process, i.e. object-oriented exploration, habituation and, under certain temporal conditions, response-to-change, in a dose dependent manner. Since drug-injected animals did not differ from controls when no object was present, 8-OH-DPAT probably has no role in non-oriented exploratory activity. The influence of time was further investigated by varying the duration of successive trials and intertrial intervals. In situations where the durations were extremely shortened (3-min trials/3-min intertrial intervals), drug-treated subjects, in contrast to control ones, exhibited a 'hypernormal' time course: they explored and habituated. 8-OH-DPAT appears to increase the efficiency of exploration possibly via a positive effect on arousal or attention. 8-OH-DPAT is assumed to act on 5-HT somatodendritic autoreceptors, lowering 5-HT utilization in the hippocampus, which is the main structure implicated in spatial memory. This exploration paradigm could be employed in the study of time components of environmental adaptation without the need to restrain subjects. PMID- 2530994 TI - Contributive factors to cardiovascular hypertrophy in renal failure. AB - Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. This is related to the accumulation of nonspecific cardiovascular risk factors in this population, aggravated by some specific features, proper to chronic uremia. The principal abnormalities observed in ESRD patients, with no history of cardiovascular disease, consist in an increased left ventricular mass and a chronic left ventricular dilation. The enlargement of the ventricular cavities is due to a chronic flow overload in which the anemia and dialysis arteriovenous fistula play a dominant role. The increase in ventricular mass is usually less pronounced than the ventricular dilation and for a given arterial pressure the ventricular mass-to-volume ratio is inadequately low. The "inadequate" cardiac hypertrophy is more frequently observed in patients with severe secondary hyperparathyroidism and results in a chronic increase in ventricular stress and oxygen consumption. On the other hand, ESRD patients with aluminum overload exhibit an increased ventricular mass which compensates for ventricular dilation. The echocardiographic indices of ventricular systolic function are normal, contrasting with a pronounced impairment of diastolic properties. The impairment of ventricular filling is in part related to the increased left ventricular mass. PMID- 2530995 TI - Effect of brain-gut peptides upon neurons in centrally regulating sites for drinking. AB - The effects of angiotensin II (A II) and ANP on spontaneously active neurons in the subfornical organ (SFO), anteroventral third ventricle (AV3V) and supraoptic (SON) and paraventricular nucleus (PVN) were investigated using slice preparations and extracellular recordings. Application of A II (10(-7)M) excited the neural activity of 66% of the SFO neurons, 28% of the AV3V neurons and 44% of the SON neurons. The threshold concentration to produce responses in SFO and AV3V neuron was less than 10(-10)M, while that in SON neurons was 10(-9)M. The excitatory effects of A II were reversibly antagonized by saralasin and persisted after synaptic blockade in a low Ca2+ and high Mg2+ medium. Application of ANP (10(-7)M) inhibited the neural activity of 41% of the AV3V neurons, 22% of the PVN neurons and only 14% of the SFO neurons but had no effect on SON neurons. The threshold concentration for ANP in the AV3V was 10(-11)M. Interestingly, ANP inhibited A II induced excitation in most of the SFO neurons (87%), while ANP had little effects on their spontaneous firing rates. These results show that both peptides of A II and ANP have direct central actions on hypothalamic neurons although ANP can not directly influence magnocellular neurons, suggesting that these blood borne peptides are detected in the SFO and AV3V and that they are acting as a neurotransmitter or a neuromodulator in the central nervous system to regulate water homeostasis. PMID- 2530996 TI - The heart is the center of a new endocrine, paracrine, and neuroendocrine system. AB - This review indicates that the heart is a polypeptide-producing organ which should be classified among the traditional endocrine tissues. Cardiac hormones have only been known for a few years, the discovery of their endocrine functions, however, occurred in the 1950ies when Gauer, Henry and Kisch observed specific physiological and morphological features of the heart atria indicative of an endocrine activity. Because of their basic effects many target organs involved in the regulation of body fluid pressure and composition are related to this endocrine organ located in the atrial appendages of the heart. The compact endocrine portion of the heart is built up by myoendocrine cells which form the functional endocrine units and produce a variety of polypeptide hormones called cardiodilatin (CDD) or atrial natriuretic polypeptide (ANP), which belong to one family. Also, co-storage of a partially homologous regulatory polypeptide called brain natriuretic polypeptide (BNP) occurs, as has been determined by immunohistochemistry and radioimmunoassay. CDD and/or BNP are found in numerous organs where they exert paracrine and neurocrine functions, e.g., in the brain, peripheral nervous system, kidney, and adrenal medulla. In these organs, a differential post-translational processing of cardiac polypeptides is observed, resulting in different functional activities according to discriminating receptor interactions and degrading metabolism. Some of the extra-auricular sites of synthesis and storage of CDD-like peptides are briefly mentioned. In summary the heart constitutes the center of a multilocal and multifunctional system of specific cardiac polypeptides of endocrine, paraneuronal, and neuronal character. PMID- 2530997 TI - The effect of rANP on the efferent activity of the autonomic nerves. AB - It is well known that the Atrial Natriuretic Peptide (ANP) plays a major role in vasorelaxation and in lowering systolic blood pressure. However, little information is available concerning its effect on the autonomic outflows. The present study deals with the effect of rat ANP (rANP) on the efferent activity of the sympathetic and vagal outflows. Under anesthesia (urethane 700 mg/kg and chrolarose 50 mg/kg, intraperitoneal), the effect of intravenous administration of rANP was observed in rats. A suppression of the efferent activity was recognized after administration of rANP in adrenal, renal and splenic sympathetic nerve fibers, and also in vagal gastric, pancreatic and hepatic nerve fibers. The smallest effective dose was 100 pg. In decerebrated preparations no change in efferent activity after administration of rANP was recognizable. The results indicate that rANP released from the atrium to systemic circulation modulates autonomic outflows through the hypothalamic neurons surrounded by an insufficient blood brain barrier. PMID- 2530998 TI - Comparison of the neuromuscular block induced by mivacurium, suxamethonium or atracurium during nitrous oxide-fentanyl anaesthesia. AB - We compared the neuromuscular and cardiovascular changes following administration of mivacurium 0.15, 0.20 and 0.25 mg kg-1, suxamethonium 1.0 mg kg-1 or atracurium 0.5 mg kg-1 i.v. in 41 (ASA physical status I or II) patients during nitrous oxide-fentanyl anaesthesia. Mean onset times for total ablation of twitch response for mivacurium 0.15, 0.20 and 0.25 mg kg-1, were 2.5, 2.4 and 2.7 min, respectively, similar to that for atracurium (2.5 min), but longer than for suxamethonium (1.1 min) (P less than 0.05). Mean times from administration of drug until twitch response recovered to 10% of control were shorter for each dose of mivacurium (15.6, 18.0 and 20.6 min, respectively) than for atracurium (40.0 min) and longer than for suxamethonium (7.7 min) (P less than 0.05). Mean infusion rate required to maintain twitch response at 5 +/- 4% control was 6.7 micrograms kg-1 min-1 for mivacurium and 6.3 micrograms kg-1 min-1 for atracurium. Following neostigmine 0.045 mg kg-1, mean times for twitch tension to recover from 10% to 90% of control were similar for mivacurium (9.7 min) and atracurium (10.5 min). Transient decreases in mean arterial pressure (greater than 20%) were observed in seven of 15 patients who received the two higher doses of mivacurium. PMID- 2530999 TI - Hypersensitivity reaction to high-dose cytarabine. PMID- 2531000 TI - Subcloning, expression, and purification of the enterobactin biosynthetic enzyme 2,3-dihydroxybenzoate-AMP ligase: demonstration of enzyme-bound (2,3 dihydroxybenzoyl)adenylate product. AB - The gene coding for the enzyme 2,3-dihydroxybenzoate-AMP ligase (2,3DHB-AMP ligase), responsible for activating 2,3-dihydroxybenzoic acid in the biosynthesis of the siderophore enterobactin, has been subcloned into the multicopy plasmid pKK223-3 and overproduced in a strain of Escherichia coli. The protein is an alpha 2 dimer with subunit molecular mass of 59 kDa. The enzyme catalyzes the exchange of [32P]pyrophosphate with ATP, dependent upon aromatic substrate with a turnover number of 340 min-1. The enzyme also releases pyrophosphate upon incubation with 2,3-dihydroxybenzoic acid and ATP; an initial burst corresponding to 0.7 nmol of pyrophosphate released per nanomole of enzyme is followed by a slower, continuous release with a turnover number of 0.41 min-1. The 1000-fold difference in rates observed between ATP-pyrophosphate exchange and continuous pyrophosphate release, as well as the close to stoichiometric amount of pyrophosphate released, suggests that intermediates are accumulating on the enzyme surface. Such intermediates have been observed and correspond to enzyme bond (2,3-dihydroxybenzoyl)adenylate product. PMID- 2531001 TI - Urea-induced inactivation, dissociation, and unfolding of the allosteric phosphofructokinase from Escherichia coli. AB - The influence of urea on the allosteric phosphofructokinase from Escherichia coli has been studied by measuring the changes in enzymatic activity, protein fluorescence, circular dichroism, and retention in size-exclusion chromatography. Tetrameric, dimeric, and monomeric forms of the protein can be discriminated by their elution from a high-performance liquid chromatography gel filtration column. Three successive steps can be detected during the urea-induced denaturation of phosphofructokinase: (i) the dissociation of the native tetramer into dimers which abolishes the activity; (ii) the dissociation of dimers into monomers which exposes the unique tryptophan, Trp-311, to the aqueous solvent; (iii) the unfolding of the monomers which disrupts most of the secondary structure. This pathway involves the ordered dissociation of the interfaces between subunits and supports a previous hypothesis (Deville-Bonne et al., 1989). Phosphofructokinase can be quantitatively renatured from urea solutions, provided that precautions are taken to avoid the aggregation of one insoluble monomeric state. The renaturation of phosphofructokinase from urea implies three steps: an initial folding reaction within the monomeric state is followed by two successive association steps. The faster association step restores the native fluorescence, and the slower regenerates the active enzyme. The renaturation and denaturation of phosphofructokinase correspond to the complex pathway: tetramer in equilibrium dimer in equilibrium folded monomer in equilibrium unfolded monomer. It is found that the subunit interface which forms the regulatory site is more stable and associates 40 times more rapidly than the subunit interface which forms the active site. PMID- 2531002 TI - Dissection of the effector-binding site and complementation studies of Escherichia coli phosphofructokinase using site-directed mutagenesis. AB - A systematic study by site-directed mutagenesis has been conducted on the effector site of phosphofructokinase from Escherichia coli to delineate the role of side chains in binding the allosteric activator, GDP, and inhibitor, PEP, and to search for key residues in the allosteric transtion. Target residues were identified from the crystal structure of the enzyme-nucleoside diphosphate complex. It is found that both activator and inhibitor bind to the same set of amino acid side chains. Deletion of positively charged groups (Arg21, Arg25, Arg54, Arg154, and Lys213 mutated to alanine) weakens binding of both effectors by 2-3 kcal/mol, consistent with the disruption of charged hydrogen bonds. Residue Glu187, which is known from the crystal structure to bind the coordinated Mg2+ ion of GDP, is found to have a unique behavior on mutation and appears to be crucial in triggering the allosteric transition. All other residues mutated simply weaken binding of both PEP and GDP in a parallel manner. However, mutation of Glu----Ala187 reverses the roles of GDP and PEP, causing GDP to become an allosteric inhibitor and PEP an activator. Mutation of Glu----Gln187 has only a small effect on the binding of PEP, and both PEP and GDP are inhibitors. Studies are described in which mutations in different subunits of a tetrameric complex complement each other. The effector site is composed of residues from two subunits. In particular, Arg21 and Lys213 in each site are from different subunits. Mutations of either one of these residues abolishes activation by GDP of the homotetramer.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2531003 TI - Dopamine D1 receptors of the calf parathyroid gland: identification of a ligand binding subunit with lower apparent molecular weight but similar primary structure to neuronal D1-receptors. AB - The ligand binding subunit of the calf parathyroid D1 dopamine receptor was visualized by autoradiography following photoaffinity labeling with (+/-)-7 [125I]iodo-8-hydroxy-3-methyl-1-(4'-azidophenyl)-2,3,4,5- tetrahydro-1H benzazepine ([125I]IMAB) and sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The protein comprising the D1 binding subunit migrated with an apparent Mr approximately equal to 62,000. Photoincorporation of [125I]IMAB into the Mr approximately equal to 62,000 polypeptide required the presence of protease inhibitors and was stereoselectively antagonized by dopaminergic agonists and antagonists with an appropriate pharmacological specificity for D1 receptors. The electrophoretic mobility of the [125I]IMAB-labeled receptor was not altered by the absence or presence of urea or thiol-reducing/oxidizing reagents. The Mr approximately equal to 62,000 protein representing the ligand binding subunit of bovine parathyroid D1 receptors corresponds to one of three D1 receptor binding subunits (Mr = 74,000, 62,000, and 51,000) identified in bovine brain. Peptide map comparisons of radiolabeled D1 receptors from calf parathyroid and brain following limited proteolytic digestion with Staphylococcus aureus V8 and papain revealed marked structural similarities. These data suggest that, despite tissue-specific differences in overall molecular weight, both parathyroid and neuronal D1 dopamine binding subunits appear to be pharmacologically and structurally homologous and that the molecular mechanism(s) responsible for the apparent lack of a one to one correspondence in the subunit composition of the D1 receptor in these tissues probably reflect(s) tissue-specific posttranslational modifications. PMID- 2531004 TI - F1 ATPase from the thermophilic bacterium PS3 (TF1) shows ATP modulation of oxygen exchange. AB - The ATPase from the ATP synthase of the thermophilic bacterium PS3 (TF1), unlike F1 ATPase from other sources, does not retain bound ATP, ADP, and Pi at a catalytic site under conditions for single-site catalysis [Yohda, M., & Yoshida, M. (1987) J. Biochem. 102, 875-883]. This raised a question as to whether catalysis by TF1 involved alternating participation of catalytic sites. The possibility remained, however, that there might be transient but catalytically significant retention of bound reactants at catalytic sites when the medium ATP concentration was relatively low. To test for this, the extent of water oxygen incorporation into Pi formed by ATP hydrolysis was measured at various ATP concentrations. During ATP hydrolysis at both 45 and 60 degrees C, the extent of water oxygen incorporation into the Pi formed increased markedly as the ATP concentration was lowered to the micromolar range, with greater modulation observed at 60 degrees C. Most of the product Pi formed arose by a single catalytic pathway, but measurable amounts of Pi were formed by a pathway with high oxygen exchange. This may result from the presence of some poorly active enzyme. The results are consistent with sequential participation of three catalytic sites on the TF1 as predicted by the binding change mechanism. PMID- 2531005 TI - Microtubules accelerate ADP release by dynein. AB - The effects of microtubules on the phosphate-water oxygen exchange reactions catalyzed by dynein were examined in order to determine the mechanism by which microtubules activate the ATPase. Microtubules inhibited the rate of medium exchange observed during net ATP hydrolysis. Inhibition of the exchange reaction was proportional to the extent of microtubule activation of ATP turnover with no effect on the partition coefficient. These data argue that microtubules do not increase the rate of release of phosphate from dynein; rather, they increase the rate of ADP release. Microtubules markedly inhibited medium phosphate-water exchange reactions observed in the presence of ADP and Pi. With increasing concentrations of ADP, the rate of exchange increased in parallel to the dissociation of dynein from the microtubules, suggesting that only free dynein and not the microtubule-dynein complex catalyzes the exchange reaction. The rates of dynein binding to microtubules in the absence and presence of saturating ADP were 1.6 X 10(6) and 9.8 X 10(5) M-1 s-1, respectively. ADP inhibited the rate of the ATP-induced dissociation of the microtubule-dynein complex with an apparent Kd = 0.37 mM for the binding of ADP to the microtubule-dynein complex. However, the rate of dissociation of ADP from the M.D.ADP complex was quite fast (approximately 1000 s-1). These data support the postulate of a high-energy dynein-ADP intermediate and indicate that microtubules activate the dynein ATPase by enhancing the rate of ADP release. PMID- 2531006 TI - Activation of the dynein adenosinetriphosphatase by cross-linking to microtubules. AB - The microtubule-dynein complex consisting of 22S dynein from Tetrahymena cilia and MAP-free microtubules was subjected to treatment with various concentrations of 1-ethyl-3-[3-(dimethylamino)-propyl]carbodiimide (EDC), a zero-length cross linker, at 28 degrees C for 1 h. Following cross-linking of the microtubule dynein complex, nearly all of the ATPase activity cosedimented with the microtubules in the presence of ATP. Electron microscopic observation by negative staining revealed that, following treatment with 1 mM EDC, the complex did not dissociate in the presence of ATP, although the dynein decoration pattern was disordered. The complex treated with 3 mM EDC exhibited normal microtubule-dynein patterns even after the addition of ATP. The ATPase activity of the microtubule dynein complex was enhanced about 30-fold by the treatment with 1-3 mM EDC. These results indicate that the ATPase activation was caused by the close proximity of the dynein ATPase sites to the microtubules and provide further support for the functional interaction of all three dynein heads with the microtubule. The maximal specific activity was 12 mumol min-1 (mg of dynein)-1, corresponding to a turnover rate of 150 s-1, which may be the rate-limiting step at infinite microtubule concentration and may represent the maximum rate of force production in the axoneme. PMID- 2531007 TI - Adenosine 5'-O-(3-thiotriphosphate) hydrolysis by dynein. AB - The interaction of dynein with ATP gamma S, a phosphorothioate analogue of ATP, has been investigated in depth. The hydrolyses of ATP gamma S and of ATP were shown to be mutually competitive. ATP gamma S induced complete dissociation of the microtubule-dynein complex such that the time course of dissociation monitored by stopped-flow light-scattering methods followed a single exponential. The ATP gamma S concentration dependence of the rate of dissociation was hyperbolic, indicating that the dissociation is at least a two-step process: M.D + ATP gamma S in equilibrium M.D.ATP gamma S----M + D.ATP gamma S. The fit to the hyperbola gives an apparent Kd = 0.5 mM for the binding of ATP gamma S to the microtubule-dynein complex, and the maximal rate of 45 s-1 defines the rate of dissociation of the ternary M.D.ATP gamma S complex. Rapid quench-flow experiments demonstrated that the hydrolysis of ATP gamma S by dynein exhibited an initial burst of product formation. The size of the burst was 1.2 mol/10(6) g of dynein, comparable to that in the case of ATP hydrolysis. The steady-state rate of ATP gamma S turnover by dynein was activated by MAP-free microtubules. Because the rate of ATP gamma S turnover is severalfold (4-8) slower than ATP turnover, the rate-limiting step must be release of thiophosphate, not ADP. Thus, microtubules can activate the rate of thiophosphate release. The stereochemical course of phosphoric residue transfer was determined by using ATP gamma S stereospecifically labeled in the gamma position with 18O.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2531008 TI - Evidence for a precursor of the high-affinity metastasis-associated murine laminin receptor. AB - The high-affinity cellular receptor for the basement membrane component laminin is differentially expressed during tumor invasion and metastasis. A cDNA clone encoding the murine laminin receptor was isolated and identified on the basis of sequence homology to the human laminin receptor [Wewer et al. (1986) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 83, 7137-7141]. Primer extension experiments demonstrated that the clone contained the complete 5' sequence of the murine laminin receptor mRNA. RNA blot data demonstrated a single-sized laminin receptor mRNA, approximately 1400 bases long, in human, mouse, and rat. The nascent laminin receptor predicted from the cDNA sequence is 295 amino acids long, with a molecular weight of 33,000, and contains one intradisulfide bridge, a short putative transmembrane domain, and an extracellular carboxy-terminal region which has abundant glutamic acid residues and multiple repeat sequences. The precursor of the laminin receptor is apparently smaller than the 67-kilodalton protein isolated from tissue. The apparent molecular weight on SDS-polyacrylamide gels of the rabbit reticulocyte cell-free translation product of selectively hybridized laminin receptor mRNA is 37,000. Antisera to three different domains of the cDNA predicted receptor were used to study the relationship between the 37- and 67 kilodalton polypeptides. Antisera to cDNA-deduced synthetic peptides of the receptor immunoprecipitated a 37-kilodalton band both from cell-free translation products and from pulse-labeled cell extracts. On immunoblots of cell extracts, one antisynthetic peptide antiserum recognized only the 67-kilodalton receptor, while another antiserum identified both 37- and 67-kilodalton polypeptides, suggesting a precursor-product relationship between the two polypeptides. PMID- 2531009 TI - [Image-producing detection of porphyrin-marked tumors in the early stage]. PMID- 2531010 TI - The genetics of Alzheimer's disease. AB - Genetic factors play a major role in some if not all cases of Alzheimer's disease (AD). In certain rare families, the disease is most likely inherited as an autosomal dominant trait. Identification of the genes involved in AD is in progress. One AD-related gene, which codes for the amyloid precursor protein (APP), has been cloned and characterized. This gene, though certainly involved in the pathogenesis of AD, is not defective in AD subjects. Genetic linkage analysis of familial Alzheimer's disease (FAD) should help to identify defective genes directly involved in initiating the pathogenesis of AD. In addition, the study of the genes responsible for the Down syndrome (DS) phenotype may yield information on the sequence of events leading to the dementia of AD. PMID- 2531011 TI - Repetitive strain disorder. PMID- 2531012 TI - Mixed lymphocyte cultures using automated blood cell counters. AB - We compared the standard mixed lymphocyte culture technique with a new technique based on cell count and size distribution in a series of histocompatibility tests on 24 patients and 39 potential donors for bone marrow transplantation. We found that suspensions in which lymphocytes were undergoing transformation could be distinguished from those in which they were not after a 10-day incubation period by measuring the leucocyte count and size distribution in a Coulter S+ IV automated counter. The leucocyte count was higher and the size distribution was wider in suspensions where the lymphocytes were transforming. The correlation between relative response indices calculated using tritiated thymidine uptake or total nuclear mass was close (r = 0.7; p less than 0.001) although there were major differences in the response as assessed by each of the two techniques in some individual cases. We feel this method is suitable to screen large numbers of unrelated donors. PMID- 2531013 TI - Centrally administered atrial natriuretic factor inhibits central angiotensin induced natriuresis. AB - Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) and angiotensin II (ANG II) have been demonstrated in close vicinity in forebrain areas involved in the central fluid and electrolyte regulation. Previous reports suggested an inhibitory effect of ANF on some of the central actions of ANG II, such as water intake and vasopressin release. In the present study in conscious, unrestrained, sodium repleted rats we investigated the effects of intracerebroventricularly (i.c.v.) administered ANF (alpha r-APIII) on the central natriuretic action of ANG II. Urine was collected through a novel chronically implanted ureteral catheter. I.c.v. injections of ANG II (100 pg) produced a marked natriuresis of rapid onset without altering urinary volume or blood pressure. Pretreatment with ANF (100 pg, 1 ng, 100 ng i.c.v.) 5 min before ANG II dose-dependently antagonized the ANG II induced natriuretic effect. The lowest dose caused approximately 50% reduction, the intermediate dose a complete abolition and the highest dose even a reversal of the ANG II-induced natriuretic effect to salt retention. Urinary volume and blood pressure were not altered by the combined treatment with ANG II and ANF. Our results support the idea of a functional antagonism between ANG II and ANF in the central fluid and electrolyte control. PMID- 2531014 TI - Physiological effects of selective 5-HT1a and 5-HT1b ligands in rat hippocampus: comparison to 5-HT. AB - The responses of CA1 neurons to topical application of serotonin (5-HT) and selective 5-HT1a and 5-HT1b agonists were examined with intracellular recording in the hippocampal slice. 5-HT produced a uniform hyperpolarizing response associated with an increase in K conductance as previously reported. In addition a marked reduction was recorded in slow afterhyperpolarization (AHP) which follows a burst discharge. 8-OH-DPAT, ipsapirone and LY165,163 partially mimicked the hyperpolarizing response to 5-HT when first applied to the slice. However, these 5-HT1a ligands antagonized responses to subsequent applications of 5-HT. Topical application of the 5-HT1b ligand TFMPP on the slice did not produce the direct or antagonistic action seen with the 5-HT1a ligands. It is suggested that the physiological response to 5-HT in the rat hippocampus is mediated by a 5-HT1a receptor. The currently available 5-HT1a ligands show a low agonist potential and a high antagonist action towards the responses of hippocampal neurons to 5-HT. Definite classification of the hyperpolarizing response to 5-HT awaits development of more specific ligands having a pure agonistic activity. PMID- 2531015 TI - Non-additivity of D2 receptor proliferation induced by dopamine denervation and chronic selective antagonist administration: evidence from quantitative autoradiography indicates a single mechanism of action. AB - Experiments were conducted to investigate whether chronic dopamine (DA) D2 receptor blockade and DA denervation exert additive effects on striatal D2 receptor density. We employed for the first time chronic treatment with a pure D2 antagonist, metoclopramide, and measured regional striatal DA receptor binding with quantitative receptor autoradiography. Rats with extensive unilateral DA denervation induced by intracerebral 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) were injected daily for 21 days with either metoclopramide (30 mg/kg i.p.) or saline. Following a 72-h drug wash-out period, rats were sacrificed and brain sections through the caudate-putamen and nucleus accumbens were incubated with [3H]spiroperidol or [3H]SCH 23390 to assay D2 and D1 receptors, respectively. Autoradiographic analysis revealed that chronic metoclopramide treatment increased the density of D2 sites in the intact hemisphere for all regions examined without further augmenting the already increased density of D2 receptors seen in the 6-OHDA treated hemisphere. In addition, chronic metoclopramide and 6-OHDA treatment by themselves exhibited remarkably parallel anterior-posterior gradients in their effects on D2 receptor density. D1 receptor density was not affected by metoclopramide treatment but was slightly reduced in the DA-denervated hemisphere. [3H]Mazindol labelling of high-affinity DA uptake sites indicated that the extent of DA denervation was greater than 98% in both saline- and metoclopramide-treated rats. These findings are consistent with the view that chronic D2 receptor blockade and DA denervation act via a single, common mechanism to increase D2 receptor density. Work from other laboratories, in which additive effects of denervation and chronic neuroleptic treatment have been purported, may have resulted from incomplete denervation. Experimental discrepancies may also be due to differing means by which the mesotelencephalic dopaminergic neurons are injured. PMID- 2531016 TI - Analysis of dynamics trajectories of DNA and DNA-drug complexes. AB - A FORTRAN-77 program is described which was applied for analysis of optimized structures and computer-generated dynamics trajectories of DNA and DNA-drug complexes. The CORDAN program (coordinates analysis) also can be used for various manipulations of DNA-drug complexes, i.e. inversion of asymmetric sites or rebuilding the structure of the intercalator, among others. These procedures can find application in drug design. Analysis of dynamics trajectory of neocarzinostatin antibiotic (NCS) intercalated to the A-DNA form of 5'GGATGGGAG:5'CTCCCATCC is presented. The procedures described can be used for detailed analysis of dynamics structures of DNA and their complexes with intercalating drugs. PMID- 2531017 TI - CORGEN: a FORTRAN-77 generator of standard and non-standard DNA helices from the sequence. AB - An analytical procedure CORGEN generates a variety of DNA double-stranded structures from user-supplied sequence using a nucleic acid database incorporated into a standard FORTRAN-77 program. Alternatively, the cylindrical polar coordinates of DNA components may be supplied from the external table. An algorithm that performs intercalation sites in DNA is described. This procedure can be used to generate complexes of antibiotics with DNA. Non-standard DNA structures can be built by alternating the global helical twist and global helical rise in the regular DNA helix. The procedures described can be used for computer generation of a variety of non-standard DNA structures which can be subjected to molecular mechanics and dynamics simulations. PMID- 2531018 TI - [Demonstration of pyrimidine nucleoside phosphorylases in breast cancer]. AB - Two pyrimidine phosphorylase activities have been isolated from the cytosol of cultivated MCF-7 cells of a human breast cancer, by ion exchange chromatography. Both enzymes are responsible for the cleavage of thymidine into thymine and deoxyribose-1-phosphate, for the synthesis of thymidine and for the transfer of deoxyribose from d-uridine to thymine. These activities are likely to participate in the regulation of the pool of pyrimidine nucleosides required for DNA synthesis. PMID- 2531019 TI - [Is there a double pathway for the secretion of thyroglobulin: a "short circuit" weakly glycosyl-iodinated and a "long circuit" strongly glycosyl-iodinated?]. AB - Intact rat thyroid lobes incubated in vitro release recently synthesized thyroglobulin (Tg) into the media at a faster rate than they release thyroglobulin stored in follicular structures. Differential release of this Tg fraction cannot be explained by morphological alterations in thyroid architecture during incubation. This rapidly excreted fraction exhibits a low density on rubidium chloride gradients characteristic of poorly sialylated and poorly iodinated thyroglobulin, comigrating on rubidium chloride gradients with thyroglobulin isolated from tunicamycin treated glands. This poorly sialylated and poorly iodinated thyroglobulin is itself unaffected in its density or release into the media by tunicamycin treatment. Tg isolated from the media of tunicamycin treated glands has nearly the same low iodine and low sialic acid content as rat serum thyroglobulin and does not incorporate radiolabelled glucosamine. This fraction thus appear to duplicate properties of low glycosylated-low iodinated thyroglobulin released from thyroid cells in organisms that have no follicular structures and no follicular storage process as well as from thyroid tissue in patients with thyroid disease states, particularly thyroid tumors. Thus it is proposed a "short loop" pathway of low-glycosylated low iodinated thyroglobulin directly into circulation, that bypasses and is not stored in the follicular lumen, the "long loop". PMID- 2531020 TI - [Influence of a rachitogenic regime on hepatic metabolism in the rat]. AB - We have previously reported that rats fed on the Steenbock and Black's rickets inducing diet (deficient in vitamin D and with an altered Ca/P ratio) show metabolic modifications in kidney and intestinal mucosa. We have therefore decided to investigate if also in liver, seat of vitamin D hydroxylation, changes in the metabolic pattern occur. An increase of mitochondrial NAD+-dependent isocitrate dehydrogenase and a decrease of citrate and ATP content was demonstrated in liver of rachitic rats, together with changes in ATP-citrate lyase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity. The inhibitory effect of ATP on liver mitochondria NAD+-dependent isocitrate dehydrogenase was also studied. PMID- 2531021 TI - [Effect of nitrendipine on isolated uterus and other smooth muscles of the rat]. AB - Increasing concentrations of nitrendipine were found to inhibit various types of muscular activation (electrical stimulation, acetylcholine, oxytocin, potassium chloride), as well as the spontaneous rhythmic activity of the isolated rat uterus. The degree of the inhibitory effect of nitrendipine depends on the type of activation. Nitrendipine showed an exceptionally high efficacy in inhibiting contractions induced by electrical stimulation and of spontaneous rhythmic activity. For inhibition of these contractions even osmolar concentrations of nitrendipine were sufficient. The relaxant effect of nitrendipine depended on the concentration of extracellular calcium and the time of incubation of nitrendipine in the bathing medium. Nitrendipine showed high selectivity for the uterine smooth muscle because in a very high concentrations is exerted an insignificant relaxation of the other isolated smooth muscles (oesophagus, urinary bladder). Our experiments indicate that nitrendipine might have a role in therapy of premature delivery and abortion because of its great selectivity for the uterine smooth muscle. Addition of calcium into the medium restores completely all types of muscular activation after the inhibitory action of nitrendipine except its depressive action on the phasic component of oxytocin-induced contractions. These findings that individual types of activation, after inhibitory action of nitrendipine, are reestablished in various degrees by the addition of calcium into the medium, are also an additional confirmation about the existence of various types of calcium channels. PMID- 2531022 TI - [TRH dissociates the aggressivity of vegetative and motor phenomena induced by carbachol in the cat]. AB - In these experiments interaction of thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH) and carbachol injected into the cerebral ventricles of unanaesthetized cats has been investigated. Intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) carbachol as well as i.c.v. TRH produced emotional behaviour, autonomic and motor phenomena. The most impressive feature of i.c.v. carbachol was the aggressive behaviour, whereas that of i.c.v. TRH the autonomic changes. In cats treated with i.c.v. TRH, the aggressive behaviour, but the autonomic and motor changes of i.c.v. carbachol was potentiated. Since there is evidence that carbachol acts mainly on muscarinic M-2 receptors, the potentiation by TRH of aggressive behaviour, but not the autonomic and motor changes induced by carbachol could indicate heterogeneity of central muscarinic M-2 receptors. PMID- 2531023 TI - [Action of estradiol-17 beta, estrone sulfate and progesterone on the growth and differentiation of endometrial epithelial cells of the guinea pig in primary culture]. AB - Endometrial guinea-pig glandular epithelial cells grown in primary culture incorporated [3H] thymidine. After three washings with a steroid-free medium, they were made quiescent and arrested in the G0/G1 phase. However, they remained hormone-responsive and resumed the cellular cycle after stimulation by 10(-6) M oestrone sulphate but not by oestradiol-17 beta. PMID- 2531024 TI - [Inhibition of the activity of urinary N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase (NAG) and its isoenzymes by amikacin]. AB - Our study indicates that amikacin (AK) inhibited urinary N-acetyl-beta-D glucosaminidase (NAG) activity. In vivo and in vitro experiments showed significant increase of Michaelis constant of urinary NAG, in human and in rat, treated by amikacin. Our data indicate that the inhibition of amikacin on NAG and its isoenzymes was "apparently competitive" rather than competitive as reported by others. In the "apparently competitive" inhibition the amikacin-enzyme binding would be irreversible, including combined action of many hydrogen bonds which could have a strength like covalent bond. PMID- 2531025 TI - [Determination of plasminogen in milk by an immunoenzymatic technic]. AB - The ELISA assay was used to measure the plasminogen in milk. The results showed that plasminogen concentration was slightly higher than the corresponding enzymatic activity, which could be explained to the fact that several active sites of the enzyme are occupied by inhibitors or caseins. This work shows also that about 75% of plasminogen is bound to caseins. PMID- 2531026 TI - [Antispasmodic effect of warm water administered in aerosols or parenteral injections]. AB - The aerosol of thermal water given just before the administration of spasmogenic substances did not prevent the histamine or acetylcholine induced bronchospasm. After a daily parenteral dose of thermal water during 21 days, a systemic delay of the bronchospasm induced by both mediators was observed. With arsenic pretreatment the delay in onset of bronchospasm was shorter. PMID- 2531027 TI - [Obituary notice. Pierre Lepine (1901-1989)]. PMID- 2531028 TI - Significance of T1 less than T3 when R1 is greater than R3 in Einthoven's three lead electrocardiogram: an historical note. AB - This paper reviews the historical development and the significance of T-wave amplitudes in leads I and III in 1000 electrocardiograms of healthy, fit young men at the beginning of their training in the Commonwealth Aircrew Training Program of the Royal Canadian Airforce. It was found that only two of the 1000 electrocardiograms studied showed a pattern of T1 less than T3 with R1 greater than R3; consequently this was regarded as an abnormal finding. PMID- 2531029 TI - Reocclusion for persistent shunting after catheter placement of the Rashkind patent ductus arteriosus occluder. AB - Between February 1986 and January 1989, 105 percutaneous catheter occlusions of patent ductus arteriosus were undertaken, with six patients having residual left to-right shunting confirmed by colour-flow Doppler nine months to years after initial occlusion. Five of six had successful reocclusion by placement of a second 12 mm Rashkind device. All successful reocclusions had continuous murmurs. Colour-flow Doppler characterized residual shunting as a discrete jet coursing superior to the device in five and through the pods in one. No left pulmonary artery obstruction was detected following placement of the second device. All patients were discharged the day of or the day following reocclusion. PMID- 2531030 TI - Effects of iron binding agents on Saccharomyces cerevisiae growth and cytochrome P450 content. AB - The yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae Y222 was studied in the presence of the following iron-binding agents: Desferal, dipyridyl, and human and bovine transferrins. We report that cell growth and lanosterol 14 alpha-demethylase cytochrome P450 are not affected by Desferal but that dipyridyl and serum transferrins decrease the cytochrome P450 content of the yeast. Paradoxically, while both human and bovine transferrins reduce cytochrome P450 content, only bovine transferrin appears to affect cell growth in this strain. No evidence for siderophore production by this strain was found under low iron conditions. PMID- 2531031 TI - A partial curl-up protocol for adults based on an analysis of two procedures. AB - The reliability and objectivity of two curl-up protocols in assessing abdominal muscle endurance were evaluated in 262 adults (18-69 + years of age). The two protocols consisted of the Canada Fitness Award procedure (Type I) and a partial curl-up described by Fitness Canada (Type II). The relationship of these protocols, body mass, trunk flexion, body mass index and waist/hip ratio to the incidence and degree of low back pain also was investigated. Based on the results, Fitness Canada recommended that a modified Type II partial curl-up be considered for adoption into the Canadian Standardized Test of Fitness (CSTF) procedure. PMID- 2531032 TI - Kinetic properties of mitochondrial H+-adenosine triphosphatase in Morris hepatoma 3924A. AB - A study of kinetic properties of mitochondrial ATPase in Morris hepatoma 3924A is reported. The results show that submitochondrial particles isolated from the tumor tissue exhibited a three-fold increase in both the Km for ATP hydrolysis and Ki for the competitive inhibitor [beta, gamma-imido]ATP with regard to normal rat liver. Eadie-Hofstee analysis of the kinetics of ATP hydrolysis show that both the high and the low affinity constants for ATP were enhanced in the hepatoma with respect to the rat liver enzyme. Kinetic analysis of passive proton conduction through the F0 sector of ATPase does not reveal any difference between Morris hepatoma and rat liver. In Morris hepatoma particles, 50% inhibition of the hydrolase activity required 10 times more oligomycin than in control particles. On the contrary, 50% inhibition of proton conduction occurred in both hepatoma and rat liver particles at the same concentration of oligomycin. It is concluded that in Morris hepatoma the catalytic process in F1 and the functional connection between F1 and F0 of the ATP synthase are altered with regard to control rat liver. PMID- 2531033 TI - Generation of a lipid-like cytotoxin from human CD16+ natural killer cells. AB - Supernatants from unstimulated CD16+ natural killer (NK) cells or from CD16+ NK cells cocultured with K562 tumor cells (to generate NK cytotoxic factor) were both cytotoxic to target cells. Interleukin 2 stimulation of the CD16+ NK cells in the absence of tumor cell stimulation resulted in supernatants which mediated an increased cytotoxicity as compared to the unstimulated supernatants. The cytotoxic activity was recovered in the chloroform fraction of a Bligh-Dyer lipid extraction suggesting that the toxic moiety in the CD16+ NK cell-derived supernatants might be a lipid. Separation of the cytotoxic supernatants into Mr less than 10,000 and Mr greater than 10,000 fractions revealed that the Mr less than 10,000 fraction of both supernatants had no detectable protein but retained cytotoxicity equal to that of the matched unfractionated supernatant. For convenience, we refer to this lipid-like cytotoxin in the Mr less than 10,000 fraction of the supernatants from unstimulated CD16+ NK cells as lipotoxin (LTX) and the cytotoxin in the Mr less than 10,000 fraction of supernatant from interleukin 2 stimulated CD16+ NK cells as LTX*. Increasing concentrations of LTX and LTX* caused a dose related increase in cytotoxicity. Both LTX and LTX* mediated killing as early as 18 h and their cytotoxicity was not significantly affected by heating at 56 degrees for 2 h or by freezing and thawing. Heating at 63 degrees C resulted in a decrease in cytotoxic activity of 10 to 20%. The less than 10,000 dalton fraction of supernatants from both unstimulated and interleukin 2 stimulated CD3- cells (a crude NK cell population) mediated greater cytotoxicity than the CD3+ cell supernatants, and the majority of cytotoxicity from the CD3- cell supernatants was recovered in this fraction. Thus, NK cells were more efficient producers of the lipid-like cytotoxin than T-cells but whether LTX made by NK cells can also be made by T-cells remains to be determined. We propose that lipotoxin: (a) coexists with protein cytotoxins in NK cell supernatant preparations; (b) mediates significant cytotoxicity when separated from proteinaceous cytotoxins; (c) is responsible for the spontaneously secreted cytotoxic activity observed by others; (d) is distinct from previously reported proteinaceous cytotoxins, e.g., NK cytotoxic factor, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and cytolysin/perforin; (e) accounts for the lipophilic nature of cytotoxic factor activity in NK cell supernatants; and (f) causes the cytotoxic activity observed in a small molecular weight fraction of stimulated NK cell supernatants. PMID- 2531035 TI - Role of calcium in the thermal inactivation of calcium transport proteins. AB - Using purified sarcoplasmic reticulum membranes as model systems, the role of calcium ion in the thermal inactivation of membrane calcium transport was investigated. Hyperthermia induces calcium release from the heavy fraction of sarcoplasmic reticulum. This calcium channel related calcium release was inhibited by the presence of glycerol and enhanced by the presence of ethanol. Calcium was found to protect the thermal-induced calcium transport inactivation of CaATPase in the light fraction of sarcoplasmic reticulum. Both glycerol and cholesterol protect the thermal inactivation of CaATPase. Yet their effects on the calcium-induced protection kinetics were rather different, i.e., the glycerol inserts its protection effect by increasing the degree of cooperativity of calcium binding, while cholesterol increases the calcium-binding affinity. The calcium protection effect was attributed to the ability of calcium to enhance the thermal stability of the protein. This was demonstrated by an upshift (30-39 degrees C) of the transition temperature of the rotational parameter of the native tryptophans of CaATPase in the presence of calcium. PMID- 2531034 TI - Release of prostaglandin E2 from cells by photodynamic treatment in vitro. AB - Photodynamic treatment in vitro, using the photosensitizer Photofrin II and light at 630 nm, was found to liberate large amounts of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) from mouse radiation-induced fibrosarcoma tumor cells and peritoneal macrophages, but not from L929 fibroblasts. PGE2 release was dose dependent and directly related to cell membrane disruption. It occurred rapidly and was complete within 30 min of treatment. PGE2 release could be inhibited by indomethacin, meclofenamate and extended prior exposure to dexamethasone, indicating that it was due to new production involving both the phospholipase and cyclooxygenase enzyme systems. Removal of calcium ions, necessary for phospholipase activation, from the medium did not inhibit the photodynamically induced elevated PGE2 production, possibly because of Ca2+ resupply from leaking intracellular pools. PMID- 2531036 TI - Characterization of the DNA-DNA cross-linking activity of 3'-(3-cyano-4 morpholinyl)-3'-deaminoadriamycin. AB - 3'-(3-Cyano-4-morpholinyl)-3'-deaminoadriamycin (CMA) is a highly potent analogue of the antitumor agent, Adriamycin (ADR), being up to 1500 times more cytotoxic both in vivo and in vitro. In contrast to ADR, CMA, and 5-imino-3'-(3-cyano-4 morpholinyl)-3'-deaminoadriamycin (ICMA) have been shown to possess alkylating activity, as seen by their ability to produce DNA-DNA cross-links in human and murine tumor cells and in isolated lambda-phage DNA. We have compared the pharmacological activities of CMA, ICMA, and the alkylating agent, chlorambucil (CHL), in order to determine the roles of intercalation, the quinone ring, and DNA base composition, in cross-linking by CMA. CMA was 27-and 1000-fold more active than ICMA and CHL, respectively, in cross-linking DNA in L5178Y cells. In addition, the maximum level of cross-linking in L5178Y cells was reached more rapidly with CMA than with CHL, and the CMA cross-links were removed faster and more efficiently by these cells. CMA was 26- and 450-fold more active than ICMA and CHL, respectively, in producing DNA cross-links in isolated lambda-phage DNA. In contrast, the alkylating activity of CMA was only 6-fold greater than CHL, as measured by the ability of the drugs to bind to the nucleophile, p-nitrobenzyl pyridine. CMA was a better DNA intercalator than ICMA, whereas CHL did not intercalate. In addition, the intercalating agent, ethidium bromide, inhibited the cross-linking activity of CMA, but not that of CHL, suggesting that intercalation contributed to the cross-linking activity of CMA. CMA produced an increasing level of cross-linking, but showed no difference in intercalation, with isolated DNA of increasing G-C content, suggesting a preference for alkylating G-C bases. Both the cross-linking and intercalating, but not the alkylating, activities of CMA and ICMA were decreased by the reducing agent, sodium borohydride, providing additional evidence that the intercalative interaction of the ADR analogues with DNA contributes to their DNA cross-linking activity. Thus, alterations to the quinone group may effect the intercalating activity of these analogues and may contribute to the difference in cross-linking activity between CMA and ICMA. PMID- 2531037 TI - Ontogenetic development of S-antigen- and rod-opsin immunoreactions in retinal and pineal photoreceptors of Xenopus laevis in relation to the onset of melatonin dependent color-change mechanisms. AB - In Xenopus laevis Daud., the ontogenetic occurrence of two photoreceptor-specific proteins, S-antigen and rod-opsin, was investigated and correlated to the maturation of the neurohormonal effector system involved in melatonin-dependent color-change mechanisms. Tadpoles ranging from stage 12 to 57 (Nieuwkoop and Faber 1956) were fixed in Zamboni's or Bouin's solution. Frozen or paraffin sections of either total heads or dissected brains and eyes were prepared and treated with highly specific antisera against S-antigen and rod-opsin. In the retina, immunoreactive S-antigen and rod-opsin were first demonstrated in a few centrally located photoreceptors at stage 37/38. Photoreceptors of the peripheral (iridical) portions of the retina gradually became immunoreactive during further development. As in the retina, the first S-antigen-immunoreactive photoreceptors in the pineal complex appeared at stage 37/38. At this and all later stages investigated rod-opsin immunoreactivity was restricted to a few dot-like structures resembling developing pineal outer and inner segments. In most animals rod-opsin immunoreactivity was completely absent from the pineal complex. The analysis of retinal proteins with the immunoblotting technique (Western blot) revealed that the S-antigen antibody bound to a 48-kDa protein and the rod-opsin antibody to a 38-kDa protein. The body lightening reaction was determined with the aid of the melanophore index in larvae fixed in light or darkness, respectively. Aggregation of melanophore melanosomes in darkness (the melatonin dependent primary chromatic response) first occurred at stage 37/38 when melanophores started to differentiate and became pigmented. These results indicate that in Xenopus laevis (i) the molecular mechanisms of photoreception develop simultaneously in retina and pineal complex; (ii) most pineal photoreceptors differ from retinal rods in that they contain immunoreactive S antigen but essentially no immunoreactive rod-opsin; and (iii) the differentiation of phototransduction processes coincides with the onset of melatonin-dependent photoneuroendocrine regulation of color-change mechanisms. PMID- 2531039 TI - Range of lumbar flexion in chronic low back pain. AB - Thirty low back pain (LBP) patients, and thirty normal controls without any back pain or disease were the subjects for this study. Lumbar flexion was measured using the skin-marking method, a MacRae and Wright's modification of Schober's method. The mean lumbar flexion for the LBP patients (5.25 +/- 2.12 cm) was significantly lower (P 0.05) than that for normal subjects (6.96 +/- 2.0 cm). The normal males had higher value of lumbar flexion than the females. There is also the tendency for lumbar flexion to decrease with advancing age. Measurement of lumbar flexion using skin-marking technique is therefore an objective method of monitoring patients with low back pain. PMID- 2531038 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor-like immunoreactivity in spinal cord and in primary sensory neurons of spinal and trigeminal ganglia of guinea-pig: correlation with tachykinin immunoreactivity. AB - Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) is a cardiac hormone with various functions in body homeostasis. It is also processed in the brain and in the peripheral nervous system where it appears to play a role as a neuromodulator. Little is known about the presence of ANF throughout the spinal cord of the guinea-pig. We therefore examined the distribution of ANF and its possible interrelation with primary sensory afferents in this species. Using enzyme-and fluorescence immunohistochemistry on deparaffinized sections. ANF-like immunoreactivity was found to be present in nerve fibers in laminae I/II of the spinal cord and in neurons of spinal and trigeminal ganglia. Tachykinins and ANF coexisted in very few fibers of the spinal cord but did not coexist in primary sensory spinal or trigeminal neurons. Our results indicate that spinal ANF-immunoreactive fibers are of dual origin, primary sensory and non-primary sensory. The possibly heterogeneous source of the non-primary sensory ANF, its possible coexistence with other co-transmitters and functional implications are discussed. PMID- 2531040 TI - In vitro induction of immunological tolerance. AB - IL-2 was previously shown to induce cytotoxic effectors with a broad spectrum of target specificities in thymus and spleen cell cultures. This study was designed to show whether T cells activated by H-2 allogeneic cells in MLC or by syngeneic tumor cells in MLTC are also potential targets for these cytotoxic effectors. We found that thymocytes activated in vitro for 5 days by rIL-2 were capable of killing tumor cells as well as activated T cells. Thymocytes activated by IL-2 were accordingly utilized as a means of effecting clonal deletion of T cells activated by H-2 allogeneic target cells in MLC. To establish whether the unresponsiveness is specific. IL-2-activated thymocytes were added as third party cells to MLC and MLTC. The results showed that both T cells, proliferating in response to H-2 allogeneic cells, and CTL, reactive against syngeneic tumors or H 2 allogeneic cells, are eliminated from the T cell pool. Only alloreactive T cells are specifically eliminated in MLC by IL-2-activated thymocytes, as the remaining T cells are capable of proliferating and generating CTL in response to antigenically unrelated third party allogeneic cells. The possibility that unresponsiveness might be due to soluble factors was ruled out by studies performed with a diffusable "chamber insert" culture system. The results provide evidence that IL-2-activated thymocytes induce in vitro T cell tolerance. PMID- 2531041 TI - Modulation of human mononuclear phagocyte Fc gamma RII mRNA and protein. AB - Human monocytes and macrophages express three different classes of cell surface receptors for the Fc portion of IgG, Fc gamma RI (CD64), Gc gamma RII (CD32), and Fc gamma RIII (CD16). We utilized a cDNA probe for Fc gamma RII to examine the modulation of Fc gamma RII mRNA by dexamethasone, a synthetic glucocorticoid, and interferon-gamma. We also determined the changes in the expression of both Fc gamma RI and Fc gamma RII protein following treatment with these agents by flow cytometry. In studies performed with the monocyte-like cell line. U937, Northern blot analysis revealed that cells treated with interferon-gamma showed a 2.5-fold increase in Fc gamma RII mRNA levels that was maximal at 14 hr and declined to 1.4-fold over baseline by 48 hr of incubation. Treatment of U937 cells with dexamethasone did not significantly change the level of Fc gamma RII transcripts, but was able to inhibit by up to 50% the increase seen following interferon-gamma treatment. The expression of Fc gamma RII protein on U937 cells was increased 56 72% after 16-24 hr of interferon-gamma treatment, but was only 18% over baseline after 48 hr of incubation. Treatment with dexamethasone caused a small, but significant, decrease in Fc gamma RII protein, and inhibited by 20-60% the induction of Fc gamma RII by interferon-gamma. The modulation by dexamethasone and interferon-gamma of Fc gamma RI protein expression on U937 cells was markedly different from that of Fc gamma RII in both magnitude and kinetics. Interferon gamma treatment increased Fc gamma RI expression by 240% at 16 hr, and Fc gamma RI remained elevated through 48 hr. Treatment with dexamethasone decreased Fc gamma RI expression by 39%, and also inhibited by 40% the increase induced by interferon-gamma. In contrast to the findings with U937 cells, dexamethasone and/or interferon-gamma treatment had no significant effect on Fc gamma RII mRNA levels or protein expression in monocytes. However, interferon-gamma treatment increased Fc gamma RI expression on monocytes, and this increase was further augmented by treatment with dexamethasone. These data indicate that the modulation of Fc gamma RII on U937 cells is at least in part due to changes in steady state levels of Fc gamma RII mRNA. The difference between the magnitude of the changes in Fc gamma RII mRNA and protein suggests that some translational or post-translational control is involved in regulating the expression of Fc gamma RII.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2531042 TI - Expression and mutation of Ca2+ ATPases of the sarcoplasmic reticulum. PMID- 2531044 TI - [A monoclonal antibody detecting human leucocyte marker-T200 antigen]. AB - A monoclonal antibody (48)against human Pan-Leucocytes was prepared. This antibody reacted with all haemopoietic cells tested, but not with red cells and platelets by indirect immunofluorescent staining. It was also disclosed that this antibody is only bound to lymphoid tissues or leucocytes scattered in other tissues with immunoperoxidase staining. The reactivities of McAb 48 with large a mount of various target cells were identical with anti-HLE, McAb of CD45 group. Therefore McAb 48 also recognizes T200 antigen and belongs to CD45 group. The value of McAb 48 in differential diagnosis of malignant lymphoma is discussed. PMID- 2531043 TI - Splitting the ciliary axoneme: implications for a "switch-point" model of dynein arm activity in ciliary motion. AB - In the presence of specific inhibitors of beat. 20 microM VO4(3-) or pCa 4, mussel gill lateral (L) cilia can be arrested in two positions--"hands down" or "hands up"--at opposite ends of the stroke cycle. Cilia move to these positions by doublet microtubule sliding. Axonemes of arrested cilia, still tethered to the cell, are intact after demembranation and protease treatment. When reactivated by 4 mM ATP with inhibitors present, about 40% split apart. Splits are not random but occur preferentially between different specific doublets in the two opposite arrest positions. Several different related patterns of splitting are observed; for every pattern in "hands down" axonemes, there is a corresponding complementary split pattern in "hands up" axonemes. In some split patterns two doublets remain firmly attached to the central pair; these also differ depending on axonemal position. Although some of the patterns seen may be artifactual or difficult to explain, the complementary splitting patterns are predictable with simple assumptions by a "switch point" hypothesis of ciliary activity where, during each recovery stroke, doublets 6-8 have active dynein arms, while during each effective stroke, arms on doublets 1-4 become active, and arms 6-8 are turned off. Because of a difference between the patterns seen and the predictions, the status of the arms on doublet 9 is unresolved. The patterns also suggest that a spoke-central sheath attachment cycle may correlate with switching of arm activity during the generation of an asymmetric beat. PMID- 2531046 TI - Abnormal subendocardial blood flow in pressure overload hypertrophy is associated with pacing-induced subendocardial dysfunction. AB - To detect the functional significance of subendocardial hypoperfusion in the pressure-overloaded left ventricle, we studied subendocardial and subepicardial function and subendocardial and subepicardial blood flow simultaneously in seven dogs with left ventricular hypertrophy (left ventricle/body weight ratio, 7.2 g/kg) produced by chronic aortic banding. Seven normal dogs served as controls. Subendocardial and subepicardial segment lengths were measured by ultrasonic dimension gauges, and myocardial blood flow was measured with radioactive microspheres. Atrial pacing (180-200 beats/min for 5 minutes) was used to produce a chronotropic stress. In dogs with left ventricular hypertrophy, the subendocardial blood flow failed to increase during pacing compared with the baseline state (1.21 +/- 0.17 vs. 1.22 +/- 0.17 ml/min/g). Subendocardial shortening fraction deteriorated with pacing stress (before pacing, 30.6 +/- 3.9%; after pacing, 24.2 +/- 3.7%; p less than 0.001). In controls, subendocardial blood flow increased from 1.32 +/- 0.19 to 1.80 +/- 0.19 ml/min/g during pacing, and shortening fraction was preserved (before pacing, 25.5 +/- 3.9%; after pacing, 25.9 +/- 3.3%). Subepicardial blood flow in dogs with hypertrophy increased from 1.54 +/- 0.24 to 2.32 +/- 0.34 ml/min/g, and subepicardial shortening fraction was maintained (before pacing, 10.4 +/- 1.0%; after pacing, 10.5 +/- 1.2%) as it was in controls (subepicardial blood flow, from 1.27 +/- 0.18 to 2.12 +/- 0.17 ml/min/g; shortening fraction, from 16.6 +/- 2.5% to 15.5 +/- 2.2%). We conclude that, with pacing stress in pressure-overload hypertrophy, subendocardial blood flow failed to increase. This abnormality corresponded with a deterioration in subendocardial contractile function. PMID- 2531045 TI - Haemodynamic stability with midazolam-ketamine-sufentanil analgesia in cardiac surgical patients. AB - Although sufentanil in high doses may result in deep coma sufficient to conduct coronary-bypass surgery painlessly in patients, its side effects, e.g., bradycardia and hypotension, may lead to complications in some patients. Since ketamine causes central sympathetic stimulation, we attempted to counteract the vagomimetic effects of sufentanil by ketamine. Anaesthesia was induced in patients, (n = 15), for elective coronary artery-bypass surgery with 0.12 mg.kg-1 midazolam IV, followed by 1 mg.kg-1 ketamine and 0.6 micrograms.kg-1 sufentanil IV eight minutes later. Subsequently, pancuronium 0.1 mg.kg-1 was given to facilitate tracheal intubation. Three minutes later, the trachea was intubated, and ketamine 1 mg.kg-1.hr-1 IV infusion was started. Incremental doses of 0.6 micrograms.kg-1 sufentanil were given whenever a greater than 15 per cent increase in rate-pressure product was observed. The mean +/- S.E.M. dose of sufentanil before cardiopulmonary bypass was 6.5 +/- 0.6 micrograms.kg and 9.1 +/ 0.9 micrograms.kg for the entire procedure. Although midazolam alone caused reductions in systolic BP, SVR and LVSWI, other haemodynamic variables were not altered. The administration of this anaesthetic technique caused no clinically important adverse haemodynamic changes and/or ST-segment changes and prevented the adverse haemodynamic changes caused by intubation, skin incision, sternotomy and periaortic dissection. Adequate analgesia, complete amnesia and early recovery of wakefulness were observed. PMID- 2531048 TI - Developmental changes of MEKA protein and opsin in normal and rd mice. AB - Antisera raised against photoreceptor-specific MEKA and opsin proteins were provided for immunohistochemical studies on the retinas of normal (BJ57BL/6) and retinal degeneration (rd, C3H/He) mice. The expression of MEKA protein began at postnatal day 6 (P6) in the photoreceptor cells and gradually increased until P10 in both normal and rd mice. Thereafter the MEKA proteins in the photoreceptor cells of rd mice gradually decreased and disappeared at P18, whereas those of normal mice were increasing until P18. The time course of MEKA proteins in the photoreceptor cells of normal and rd mice was almost similar to that of opsin protein, except that the MEKA protein disappeared earlier than opsin. PMID- 2531047 TI - Effect of atrial natriuretic peptide on coronary collateral blood flow. AB - This study was carried out to examine the effects of atrial natriuretic peptide on coronary collateral blood flow. Studies were performed in nine adult mongrel dogs 3.4 months after embolic occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery had been performed to stimulate collateral vessel growth. At the time of study the anterior descending coronary artery was cannulated to allow estimation of interarterial collateral flow from measurements of retrograde blood flow. Injection of radioactive microspheres during retrograde flow collection allowed simultaneous determination of continuing tissue flow for evaluation of microvascular collateral communications. Atrial natriuretic peptide in doses of 20 and 200 micrograms administered into the left atrium resulted in 17 +/- 3.0% and 34 +/- 4.5% increases in retrograde flow, respectively (each p less than 0.01). Tissue flow in the collateral dependent myocardial region did not change in response to atrial natriuretic peptide. After the larger dose of atrial natriuretic peptide, the administration of nitroglycerin (10 micrograms/kg into the left atrium) caused no further increase of retrograde blood flow, and no further decrease of collateral vascular resistance. These data indicate that atrial natriuretic peptide causes vasodilation of moderately well-developed interarterial coronary collateral vessels. PMID- 2531049 TI - Decreased dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate in pigmented nodular adrenal dysplasia. AB - Previous reports on patients with endogenous Cushing's syndrome describe low concentrations of the adrenal androgen dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) in adrenal adenoma and in a case of feminizing macronodular hyperplasia. Here we present hormonal data from two adult sisters with Cushing's syndrome as a result of pigmented nodular adrenal dysplasia. Corticotropin concentrations were in the mid-normal range, cortisol production was unaffected by administration of dexamethasone (8 mg/24 h), and baseline concentrations of DHEA-S were less than 0.5 mumol/L. A low concentration of DHEA-S in these and other previously reported patients with Cushing's syndrome correctly predicts the results of dynamic testing. Decreased DHEA-S in a patient with endogenous Cushing's syndrome can be ascertained by assay of a single sample and should prompt consideration of the diagnosis of autonomous bilateral nodular disease as well as adrenal adenoma. PMID- 2531050 TI - Balloon angioplasty of aortic coarctation: a review. AB - Since the initial report of balloon coarctation angioplasty in 1982, several workers used this technique in native coarctation and postoperative recoarctation. Immediate and intermediate-term follow-up results are generally good with a small chance for recoarctation and aneurysmal formation at the site of coarctation. The causes of recoarctation were identified and include age less than 1 year, isthmus hypoplasia, and a small coarcted aortic segment. Despite good immediate and follow-up results, recommendations for use of balloon angioplasty as a treatment procedure of choice are clouded by the reports of development of aneurysms at the site of coarctation. We feel that balloon coarctation angioplasty is the treatment of choice in neonates and small infants, while general use of this technique in both native and postoperative coarctations in older children should await follow-up results in larger numbers of children at selected centers. PMID- 2531052 TI - The antinatriuretic effect of dopaminergic blockade during volume expansion is independent of circulating atrial natriuretic factor. AB - 1. Ten normal subjects were subjected to 2 h water immersion with and without pharmacological dopaminergic blockade with either metoclopramide (group I) or domperidone (group II). 2. In group I, urinary sodium excretion showed a marked increase during water immersion alone, whereas it was blunted during water immersion plus dopaminergic blockade with metoclopramide (P less than 0.05 vs water immersion alone, n = 5). Plasma aldosterone was significantly suppressed by water immersion alone (P less than 0.05), but remained unchanged during water immersion plus metoclopramide. Plasma atrial natriuretic factor showed similar augmentation during water immersion alone and during water immersion plus metoclopramide. 3. Another five subjects (group II) were studied during water immersion alone and during water immersion plus dopaminergic blockade with domperidone. In this group the increase in urinary sodium excretion was similarly blunted by dopaminergic blockade. Plasma atrial natriuretic factor was equally elevated during water immersion alone and during water immersion plus domperidone, but aldosterone was suppressed by both water immersion alone and water immersion plus domperidone. 4. Our findings suggest that water immersion induced atrial natriuretic factor release is independent of dopaminergic activity. Dopamine blockade is able to blunt significantly both water immersion induced natriuresis and plasma aldosterone suppression, independently of the marked elevation of circulating atrial natriuretic factor, via a mechanism involving type 2 dopaminergic receptors. PMID- 2531051 TI - The effects of ipratropium bromide and fenoterol nebulizer solutions in children with asthma. AB - The effects of nebulized solutions of ipratropium bromide and fenoterol combined were compared with the response to either preparation alone in single dose and longer-term administration in children who had asthma. The combination produced a slightly greater response than either alone, especially in peak expiratory flow. Over a 1-month period, there were no significant differences in symptom scores or lung function parameters between the combination of ipratropium bromide and fenoterol and fenoterol alone in a group of children who had asthma. It is possible that the addition of ipratropium bromide to a sympathomimetic drug may be useful in a subgroup of asthmatics, particularly if there is a considerable large airway contribution to bronchial narrowing. PMID- 2531053 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide, altitude and acute mountain sickness. AB - 1. To investigate the mechanisms of acute mountain sickness, 22 subjects travelled to 3100 m by road and the following day walked to 4300 m on Mount Kenya. Control measurements were made over 2 days at 1300 m before ascent and for 2 days after arrival at 4300 m. These included body weight, 24 h urine volume, 24 h sodium and potassium excretion, blood haemoglobin, packed cell volume, and symptom score for acute mountain sickness. In 15 subjects blood samples were taken for assay of plasma aldosterone and atrial natriuretic peptide. 2. Altitude and the exercise in ascent resulted in a marked decrease in 24 h urine volume and sodium excretion. Aldosterone levels were elevated on the first day and atrial natriuretic peptide levels were higher on both altitude days compared with control. 3. Acute mountain sickness symptom scores showed a significant negative correlation with 24 h urinary sodium excretion on the first altitude day. Aldosterone levels tended to be lowest in subjects with low symptom scores and higher sodium excretion. No correlation was found between changes in haemoglobin concentration, packed cell volume, 24 h urine volume or body weight and acute mountain sickness symptom score. 4. Atrial natriuretic peptide levels at low altitude showed a significant inverse correlation with acute mountain sickness symptom scores on ascent. PMID- 2531054 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor content of brain nuclei in deoxycorticosterone acetate salt hypertension in the rat. AB - 1. The influence of deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA)-salt hypertension on brain atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) in rats was investigated to elucidate the role of central ANF in a renin-independent model of experimental hypertension. 2. Sprague Dawley rats were subjected to uninephrectomy and given either tap water or saline [1% (w/v) NaCl] to drink plus weekly injections of either saline or DOCA (25 mg/kg, subcutaneously). After 32 days, the rats were decapitated and 18 different brain nuclei were removed by a micropunch technique. 3. The systolic blood pressure of the DOCA-salt rats was significantly higher than that of control rats [154 +/- 3 mmHg vs 104 +/- 2 mmHg (20.53 +/- 0.40 kPa vs 13.86 +/- 0.27 kPa), P less than 0.001]. 4. Plasma ANF levels were significantly (P less than 0.01) higher in DOCA-salt hypertensive rats compared with control rats. 5. In DOCA-salt hypertensive rats, the ANF content was increased in the organum vasculosum of the lamina terminalis (31.4 +/- 2.1 vs 22.1 +/- 2.5 pg/mg of protein, P less than 0.05), the subfornical organ (32.5 +/- 5.0 vs 24.2 +/- 2.4 pg/mg of protein, P less than 0.05), the medial amygdaloid nucleus (49.0 +/- 6.4 vs 34.0 +/- 2.0 pg/mg of protein, P less than 0.05) and the locus coeruleus (86.9 +/- 4.1 vs 64.4 +/- 4.2 pg/mg of protein, P less than 0.01) compared with control rats. The ANF content of 14 other brain areas investigated did not alter after treatment.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2531055 TI - Immunoreactive N-terminal pro-atrial natriuretic peptide in human plasma: plasma levels and comparisons with alpha-human atrial natriuretic peptide in normal subjects, patients with essential hypertension, cardiac transplant and chronic renal failure. AB - 1. Plasma levels of immunoreactive N-terminal pro-atrial natriuretic peptide (N terminal ANP) have been measured in 25 normal subjects, 29 patients with essential hypertension, six cardiac transplant recipients, seven patients with dialysis-independent chronic renal failure and 11 patients with haemodialysis dependent chronic renal failure. Plasma was extracted on Sep-Pak cartridges and N terminal ANP immunoreactivity was measured using an antibody directed against pro ANP (1-30). 2. Plasma levels of N-terminal ANP (means +/- SEM) were 235.3 +/- 19.2 pg/ml in normal subjects and were significantly raised in patients with essential hypertension (363.6 +/- 36.3 pg/ml), in cardiac transplant recipients (1240.0 +/- 196.2 pg/ml), in patients with chronic renal failure not requiring dialysis (1636.6 +/- 488.4 pg/ml) and patients with chronic renal failure on maintenance haemodialysis (10336.1 +/- 2043.7 pg/ml). 3. There were positive and significant correlations between the plasma levels of N-terminal ANP and alpha human ANP (alpha-hANP) with individual correlation coefficients of 0.68 within the normal subjects, 0.47 in patients with essential hypertension, 0.78 in patients with dialysis-independent chronic renal failure and 0.68 in patients with haemodialysis-dependent chronic renal failure (P less than 0.05 in every case).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2531056 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor during exercise in male endurance athletes: effect of training. AB - Nine male endurance runners were evaluated with bicycle exercise testing before a training break of 3 weeks duration, and 0, 2 and 4 weeks after resumption of training to assess the effects of training on resting and exercise plasma atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) measured at 50% and 100% of predetermined maximal workload. Maximal oxygen uptake and lean body mass (LBM) were calculated at each time point. Maximal oxygen uptake decreased during training break, but rose 4 weeks after resumption of training (P less than 0.01). LBM was unchanged after inactivity, but rose after resumption of training (P less than 0.01). Plasma ANF at rest did not change throughout the experiment. ANF levels rose after training break at maximal workload (P less than 0.05), and decreased 4 weeks after resumption of training, but only at submaximal workload (P less than 0.05). No correlations between systolic blood pressure, mean blood pressure or heart rate and ANF could be demonstrated. These results indicate that the haemodynamic changes associated with endurance training are reflected in plasma ANF levels during exercise, but not at rest. The full adaptation of ANF release to training probably requires more time than the 4 weeks reported for the haemodynamic adjustments. PMID- 2531057 TI - [Drugs and food]. AB - The authors examine the complex relationships between drugs and foodstuffs from the various points of view of clinical pharmacology, toxicology, and nutritional science. Special attention is concentrated on the possible interference of foodstuff with drug bioavailability, changes of drug bioavailability during malnutrition, drug-induced changes of nutritional status, and incompatibility between foodstuffs and drugs. PMID- 2531058 TI - [The combination of cyclosporin A and fluocortolone in the treatment of autoimmune diseases]. AB - The authors report the results obtained in treatment of various autoimmune diseases using cyclosporin A (CyA) in association with fluocortolone and/or methotrexate and cyclophosphamide. In all patients treated, complete long-lasting remission of the disease both from a clinical point of view and regarding laboratory tests was obtained. In some cases, this remission has lasted for several years since onset of therapy. The results obtained demonstrate the efficacy of CyA in treatment of autoimmune diseases and show that association with fluocortolone and/or methotrexate and cyclophosphamide by exploiting the combined action of these drugs, has enabled relatively low doses to be used. These however are still sufficient to induce satisfactory immunosuppression and avoid side effects. In this context, the importance of monitoring drug blood levels is underlined, also in view of the fact that each patient has a different capacity for intestinal CyA absorption. PMID- 2531059 TI - [Ultrasonic and scintigraphic changes of the euthyroid goiter in the course of drug therapy. I]. AB - We studied the ultrasonographic and scintigraphic changes of thyroid gland of 81 goitreous patients before and after treatment with exsiccated thyroid. About 57.8% of goitres showed a reduction of size, while no change was observed in 30% of patients; a further growth of the gland was seen in 13% of patients in spite of therapy. A difference between ultrasonography and scintigraphy in evaluating after-treatment follow-up was also noted, and a different response of nodules and diffuse hyperplasia to treatment assessed. PMID- 2531060 TI - [Monoclonal antibodies in cirrhotic cancer]. AB - In five out of nine cases of cancer in cirrhotic livers protein electrophoresis demonstrated the presence of a monoclone. This finding is compared with thirty cases of liver cirrhosis in which paraproteinemia was not found. The authors come to the conclusion that the appearance of a monoclone in a cirrhotic patient must raise the suspicion of cancer in the cirrhotic liver. PMID- 2531061 TI - [Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia]. AB - The Author describes the main signs of Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia, first described in 1944, which is characterized by IgM paraproteinemia, tumefaction of the lymphoid tissues, hemorrhagic diathesis, and blood hyperviscosity. PMID- 2531062 TI - Control of B cell function by Fc gamma receptor-positive T cells and immunoglobulin-binding factors. PMID- 2531063 TI - Role of helper T cells in the B cell response. PMID- 2531064 TI - To treat or not to treat: the controversy of handicapped newborns. AB - When dealing with the prospects of treating, not treating, or delaying treatment for handicapped newborns, there is no room for error. Since that is an impossible premise, one must make the best possible treatment plan for the newborn. The parents and members of the health care team should be included in the decision making. Those involved must also remember that no decisions are final; if the infant's physical condition changes, the treatment plan may be reevaluated. Any errors must be made by promoting the best interests of the infant in question, by keeping the infant alive longer than necessary rather than providing a premature death. Never, under any circumstances, should an infant be starved, dehydrated, or outright killed; to do so is to violate the rights of the infant. The infant's rights to life without constant pain are also violated by the senseless prolongation of his life and the promotion of wrongful life through the excessive use of modern technology. PMID- 2531065 TI - Is there loss of protective muscarinic receptor mechanism in asthma? AB - We investigated the hypothesis that prior airway muscarinic receptor stimulation (with aerosolized methacholine) would modify the bronchoconstrictor response to histamine, which is, in part, vagally mediated. On four different experiment days, the following combinations of methacholine and histamine inhalation challenges were performed in 15 subjects (nine normal and six asthmatic) in a random fashion: methacholine-histamine, histamine-methacholine; methacholine methacholine and histamine-histamine. Cumulative provocative dose of each agonist which caused a 50 percent decrease in SGaw was estimated (PD50). The second challenge was performed approximately 1 hour after the first challenge, when SGaw had returned to baseline. In normal subjects, prior muscarinic stimulation with methacholine suppressed the subsequent bronchoconstrictor response to histamine (mean +/- SE PD50 histamine increased from 13.7 +/- 3.1 to 28.4 +/- 7.2 breath units), without modifying the bronchoconstrictor response to methacholine. In asthmatic subjects, prior methacholine exposure failed to modify the bronchoconstrictor responses to histamine and methacholine. In contrast, prior challenge with histamine did not modify the subsequent bronchoconstrictor responses to histamine and methacholine in both normal and asthmatic subjects. Pretreatment with ipratropium bromide attenuated the histamine-induced bronchoconstriction, suggesting that airway effects of histamine, in part, are vagally mediated. These data suggest that prior muscarinic stimulation has a protective effect on histamine-induced bronchoconstriction in normal subjects and the absence of this inhibitory effect in asthmatic patients may represent loss of a protective muscarinic receptor mechanism. PMID- 2531066 TI - Syncope caused by methacholine in a patient with exercise-induced anaphylaxis. PMID- 2531068 TI - Morphofunctional features of human extrinsic ocular muscles. AB - Authors have examined the histoenzymatic features of the human extraocular muscles. Fiber typing was based on myosin ATPase isoenzymes, mitochondrial succinicdehydrogenase and glycogen content. It has been established that the human extrinsic ocular muscles contain all three main types of fibers. Fast fibers with alkali-stable ATPase activity and glycolytic metabolism are mainly present in the ocular muscles and are almost completely type IIa fibers. In addition, in the ocular muscles, slow muscle fibers are less numerous and shorter in diameter. It was not possible to determine the location of different groups of fibers in the specific areas; the anatomical distribution of the various fiber types, in transverse sections, demonstrated a random distribution of all the different types. PMID- 2531067 TI - Alpha-interferon. Its effect upon lymphocyte subpopulations and HLA-DR expression within the liver. AB - Alpha-interferon (IFN-alpha) has been shown to be beneficial in the treatment of chronic active hepatitis occurring as a consequence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Therefore, it has been used to reduce the high rate of allograft infection in clinical liver transplantation of HBV-positive individuals. This study was performed to evaluate the effect of IFN-alpha on lymphocyte subsets as well as the HLA-DR antigen expression in liver tissue. The resected livers obtained from two groups of patients who received liver transplants between 1983 and 1987 at the University of Pittsburgh were examined: group A consisted of 11 patients who were not treated (controls), and group B consisted of 10 patients (experimental group) who were treated with IFN-alpha for 29.4 +/- 5.6 days prior to transplantation. No differences between the two groups existed in terms of a variety of demographic and clinical characteristics. Both groups had cirrhosis as a result of chronic HBV infection. Monoclonal antibodies to cell-surface antigens unique to different lymphocyte populations and the HLA-DR antigens were used in conjunction with the avidin-biotin-immunoperoxidase technique to identify cells in tissue sections. The number of HLA-DR-positive lymphocytes in the liver was increased (P less than 0.005) within the portal areas in rIFN-alpha-treated group as compared to that seen in the untreated group (84.4 +/- 13.6/HPF vs 33.3 +/- 4.8/HPF). Moreover, the intensity of the HLA-DR antigen expression in the portal areas (P less than 0.02) and in the hepatic lobule (P less than 0.05) was greater in the treated group than in untreated group.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2531069 TI - Thirteen-weeks subcutaneous treatment with high dose of natural sex hormones in rats with special reference to their effect on the pituitary-gonadal axis. I. Oestradiol. AB - A high dose of oestradiol (0.3 mg/kg/day) was administrated subcutaneously to male and female rats daily for 13 weeks. The effects of hormonal treatment on various parameters were studied. The results revealed that treatment with oestradiol resulted in alopecia, retarded hair regrowth, decreased body weight and food consumption and reduced Hb, PCV and total RBCs. Neutrophilic leucocytosis, elevated ESR, and decreased blood glucose levels were also observed. Atrophy of the ovaries, testes and secondary sex organs was also recorded. The uterus of the oestradiol treated rats displayed endometrial epithelial cell hyperplasia and hypertrophy of the myometrium. The pituitary gland of the rats with oestradiol had a significant increase in the number of PRL and ACTH cells together with cytological criteria indicative of increased secretory activity; the gonadotropin-producing cells showed involutionary changes. The mammary glands of the oestradiol treated rats showed maximal stromal and ductal proliferation and minimal acinar proliferation. PMID- 2531070 TI - Thirteen-weeks subcutaneous treatment with high dose of natural sex hormones in rats with special reference to their effect on the pituitary-gonadal axis. II. Progesterone. AB - High dose of progesterone (25 mg/kg/day) was administered subcutaneously to male and female rats daily for 13 weeks. The effects of hormonal treatment on various parameters were studied. The results revealed increased food consumption associated with considerable weight gain in the progesterone-treated rats. Mucification of the vaginal epithelial cell lining, uterine involution and mild atrophy in the male genital organs were observed. The hypophyseal STH cells exhibited several cytological criteria typical of a pituitary cell-stimulated to accelerated activity; the PRL-, ACTH- and gonadotropin-producing cells were not affected. The mammary glands of the progesterone treated rats showed maximal acinar and minimal ductal and stromal cell proliferation. PMID- 2531071 TI - Overt diabetes induced by overeating in neonatally STZ-treated impaired glucose tolerant mice: long-term follow up study. AB - This study has investigated the effect of a long period of overeating on the glycemic control and pancreatic beta-cell function in neonatally streptozocin treated impaired glucose tolerant mice. Neonatally streptozocin (60 mg/kg) treated male ICR mice with 150-200 mg/dl of fed blood glucose levels were divided into two groups at 6 weeks of age. One group was maintained on a cafeteria diet (SZC) and the other on ordinary mouse chow (SZ) until 30 weeks of age. Normal male ICR mice were divided into a cafeteria diet group (CC) and an ordinary chow group (Cont). SZC and CC consumed 134-124% of the caloric intake in SZ and Cont throughout the study. Marked elevation of the fed blood glucose level was observed and the glucose tolerance was progressively impaired in SZC. On pancreas perfusion at 30 weeks of age, insulin secretion to 30 mM glucose in SZC was significantly decreased compared with that in SZ. That in CC was slightly decreased compared with that in Cont. The pancreatic insulin concentration in SZC was significantly less than that in SZ. We conclude that chronic hyperglycemia, induced by the long period of overeating, accelerated the selective loss of beta cell sensitivity to glucose. Even in normal mice that did not have marked hyperglycemia, insulin secretion to glucose was suppressed, probably by chronic stimulation of the beta-cell due to the long period of dietary excess. PMID- 2531072 TI - Demonstration of an endocrine signaling circuit for insulin in the sponge Geodia cydonium. AB - The existence of an insulin-mediated cell-to-cell signaling in the sponge Geodia cydonium is demonstrated in this study by molecular biological and immunological techniques. The sequence of a sponge cDNA clone encoding preproinsulin was analyzed for the first time and determined to comprise a high homology to human preproinsulin (60-80% homology). The predicted polypeptide of preproinsulin from sponge contains two disulfide bridges which link the A- to the B-chain. The intra A chain disulfide bridge is absent. Applying immunological and electron microscopical techniques it is shown that insulin is produced in specialized cells (spherulous cells). Experimental evidence is presented which indicates that the sponge preproinsulin (predicted Mr 11,850) is processed to insulin (Mr 5600; B-chain, Mr 3700 and A-chain, Mr 1900). Plasma membranes of sponge cells are shown to be provided with an insulin-binding receptor composed of two molecules (Mr 104,000 and Mr 98,000). Heterologous insulin (from bovine pancreas) was found to stimulate gene expression in G. cydonium cells. It is concluded that sponges are provided with an endocrine signaling circuit: signaling cells (spherulous cells), hormone (insulin), and hormone receptor bearing target cells which respond to the hormone stimulus. PMID- 2531073 TI - MPF from starfish oocytes at first meiotic metaphase is a heterodimer containing one molecule of cdc2 and one molecule of cyclin B. AB - We have purified to near homogeneity the M-phase-specific protein kinase from starfish oocytes at first meiotic metaphase, using an improved procedure based on affinity chromatography on the immobilized yeast protein suc1. As already reported, this is identical to MPF, the cytoplasmic factor that controls entry of eukaryotic cells into M-phase. MPF is a complex formed by the stoichiometric association of a 34-kd polypeptide previously identified as cdc2 with a polypeptide that migrates with the same mobility as starfish cyclin in SDS-PAGE (apparent mol. wt 47 kd). A cDNA clone encoding starfish cyclin B has been isolated and its sequence determined. It contains a single open reading frame encoding a predicted 43 729-dalton protein. Partial microsequencing of the 47-kd polypeptide component of MPF allowed its identification as the starfish cyclin. Since the apparent mol. wt of native starfish MPF was found to be less than 100 kd, it is a heterodimer comprising one molecule of cdc2 and one molecule of cyclin B. PMID- 2531074 TI - Evidence from complementation assays in vitro that U5 snRNP is required for both steps of mRNA splicing. AB - We have established an in vitro complementation system that has allowed us to investigate the role of individual purified snRNPs in the splicing of pre-mRNA molecules. For the preparation of snRNP-depleted nuclear extracts we have first removed the majority of endogenous snRNPs from the nuclear extracts by one passage over an anti-m3G column and then degraded the remaining snRNPs with micrococcal nuclease. The mixture of snRNPs U1, U2, U4/U6 and U5, obtained by anti-m3G immuno-affinity chromatography, was functionally active and able to restore the splicing of snRNP-depleted nuclear extracts. Mono-Q chromatography was used for further fractionation of the snRNPs U1-U6. This produced three fractions that were highly enriched in snRNPs U1 and U2, U5 and U4/U6 respectively. Conditions were found where addition of the [U1, U2] and the U4/U6 snRNP fractions to the snRNP-depleted nuclear extracts gave rise to the formation of splice intermediates in the absence of any 3' cleavage/exon 1-exon 2 product formation. Only when purified 20S U5 snRNPs were added did both steps of the splicing reaction occur efficiently. Our data suggest that U5 snRNP is absolutely required for the second step of splicing and is needed further for efficient initiation of the splicing reaction. The requirement for U5 snRNPs for splicing was corroborated by glycerol gradient sedimentation analysis of the respective reconstituted pre-mRNP complexes. Stable and efficient formation of 50-60S spliceosomes was observed only in the presence of all snRNPs. PMID- 2531075 TI - U3, U8 and U13 comprise a new class of mammalian snRNPs localized in the cell nucleolus. AB - Using anti-(U3)RNP autoantibodies, we have isolated and characterized two additional small nucleolar RNAs from HeLa cells, which are less abundant than U3 RNA. Both RNAs possess a trimethylguanosine cap as judged by precipitation with anti-TMG antibody, but are not precipitated by either anti-Sm or anti-La antibodies. In addition, both RNAs are not precipitable by anti-Th serum, which recognizes another nucleolar RNP autoantigen. Sequence analysis revealed that one of these RNAs, 136 nucleotides long, is the human U8 homolog; while the other, 105 nucleotides long, represents a novel species which we designate U13. Both RNAs share with U3 two conserved sequences (boxes C and D). The role of one or both of these boxes in binding the common 34 kd antigenic protein, otherwise known as fibrillarin, is discussed. Fractionation of HeLa cells revealed that U8 and U13, like U3, reside in the nucleolus. In glycerol gradients both RNAs cosediment with larger structures possibly representing ribosomal precursors. We propose that U3, U8 and U13 comprise a new subset of mammalian snRNPs whose roles in ribosome biogenesis are discussed. PMID- 2531076 TI - DNA-directed oligomerization of the monomeric Ner repressor from the Mu-like bacteriophage D108. AB - We have purified the 8.6 kd ner gene product (a lambda Cro-like protein which negatively regulates transcription from two divergent and overlapping promoters) from the Mu-like transposable bacteriophage D108. Chemical and enzymatic protection experiments show the D108 ner-operator to contain two perfect 11 bp (5'-CCG-TGAGCTAC-3') inverted repeats separated by an 8 bp AT-rich region. Ner makes base-specific contacts in the major groove spanning the 11 bp repeats and also interacts with regions flanking these sites such that its operator comprises five turns of the DNA helix. Furthermore, gel filtration chromatography and dimethyl suberimidate crosslinking experiments indicate that D108 Ner (at concentrations exceeding 5 microM) is a monomer in solution, yet crosslinks as a dimer when bound to its operator site. As a small (73 amino acids) monomeric protein, Ner does not display strong homology with any known DNA-binding proteins. By virtue of the interactions with its operator it appears to bind DNA in a markedly different manner from other known prokaryotic repressors thus adding to the growing catalog of protein motifs used for specific binding to DNA. PMID- 2531077 TI - Identification of a kinesin-like microtubule-based motor protein in Dictyostelium discoideum. AB - Dictyostelium discoideum, a unicellular eukaryote amenable to both biochemical and genetic dissection, provides an attractive system for studying microtubule based transport. In this work, we have identified microtubule-based motor activities in Dictyostelium cell extracts and have partially purified a protein that induces microtubule translocation along glass surfaces. This protein, which sediments at approximately 9S in sucrose density gradients and is composed of a 105 kd polypeptide, generates anterograde movement along microtubules that is insensitive to 5 mM NEM (N-ethyl-maleimide) but sensitive to 200 microM vanadate, and has similar nucleotide-dependent microtubule binding properties to those of kinesins purified from mammals, sea urchin and Drosophila. This kinesin-like molecule from Dictyostelium, however, is immunologically distinct from bovine and squid neuronal kinesins and supports microtubule movement on glass at four-fold greater velocities (2.0 versus 0.5 microns/sec). Furthermore, AMP-PNP (adenylyl imidodiphosphate), which promotes attachment of previously characterized kinesins to microtubules, decreases the affinity of the Dictyostelium kinesin homolog for microtubules. Thus, an AMP-PNP-induced rigor binding may not be a characteristic of kinesins from lower eukaryotes. PMID- 2531078 TI - Cooperative binding of two E2F molecules to an Ela-responsive promoter is triggered by the adenovirus Ela, but not by a cellular Ela-like activity. AB - The binding of the cellular E2F transcription factor to the central EIa responsive element of the adenovirus EIIa early promoter (EIIaE) was compared in extracts of HeLa cells which had been infected with either wild-type adenovirus or the EIa-deficient mutant dl312. No quantitative differences in the E2F-binding activity were detected as a function of EIa gene expression. However, complexes formed by the E2F factor in the presence of EIa were qualitatively different from those formed on the same sequence element in the absence of EIa. Specifically, the formation of complexes containing two E2F molecules is favoured by EIa, probably through the induction of protein-protein interactions. Protein binding to EIIaE promoter in extracts from non-infected F9 embryonal carcinoma cells, prepared before and after in vitro differentiation of these cells was also analysed. The higher expression of EIIaE in undifferentiated cells, which was originally attributed to a cellular EIa-like function, may be correlated with the increased binding activity of a murine E2F-like protein which does not, however, result in the simultaneous occupation of both E2F sites on the EIIaE promoter, suggesting that the viral EIa and the presumptive cellular EIa-like functions trans-activate the EIIaE promoter through different pathways. PMID- 2531079 TI - Dual translational initiation sites control function of the lambda S gene. AB - Lysis gene S of phage lambda has a 107 codon reading frame beginning with the codons Met1-Lys2-Met3. Genetic data have suggested that translational initiation occurs at both Met1 and Met3, generating two polypeptides, S107 and S105 respectively. We have proposed a model in which the proper scheduling of lysis depends on the partition of translational initiations between the two start codons. Here, using in vitro methods, we show that two stem-loop structures, one immediately upstream of the reading frame and a second approximately 10 codons within the gene, control the partitioning event. Utilizing primer-extension inhibition or 'toeprinting', we show that the two S start codons are served by two adjacent Shine-Dalgarno sequences. Moreover, the timing of lysis supported by the wild-type and a number of mutant alleles in vivo can be correlated with the ratio of ternary complex formation over Met1 and Met3 in vitro. Thus the regulation of the S gene is unique in that the products of two adjacent in-frame initiation events have opposing function. PMID- 2531080 TI - Human IgG Fc receptor (hFcRII; CD32) exists as multiple isoforms in macrophages, lymphocytes and IgG-transporting placental epithelium. AB - We previously isolated cDNA clones from a human monocyte library that encoded one member of a family of low-affinity surface receptors for the Fc domain of IgG (hFcRII-A). To investigate possible structural and functional heterogeneity among these receptors, we have now isolated two additional cDNAs (hFcRII-B and hFcRII C) from a human placental library, placenta being a good source of FcR-bearing macrophages and epithelial cells. Three cDNAs encoded related but distinct transmembrane glycoproteins containing two immunoglobulin-like domains; however, transfected cells produced receptors that were indistinguishable on the basis of ligand binding or reactivity with anti-hFcRII monoclonal antibodies. The sequences of hFcRII-A and -B were most closely related and were identical except for several amino acid substitutions and one small internal deletion. While the ectodomain of hFcRII-C was identical to hFcRII-B, its cytoplasmic tail was unrelated but highly homologous to the corresponding domain of the receptor isoform (mFcRII-B2) found in murine macrophages. Thus, human FcRII may be derived from at least two alternatively spliced genes. Northern blots revealed little difference in the pattern of expression of hFcRII isoforms among various myeloid and lymphoid cells or cell lines. However, the blots--as well as in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry--demonstrated that hFcRII-C (along with a second monocyte marker, the c-fms encoded CSF-1 receptor) was expressed in placental syncytiotrophoblasts. Since syncytiotrophoblasts comprise the IgG transporting epithelium of the placental villus, these findings suggest that FcR found in the immune system and in certain epithelia may be structurally or functionally related. PMID- 2531081 TI - EGF induces differentiation of an IL-3-dependent cell line expressing the EGF receptor. AB - Interleukin 3 (IL-3) is a T cell-derived lymphokine that supports the growth and development of hematopoietic cells. Tyrosine phosphorylation has been suggested to play an important role in IL-3-dependent cell proliferation. To test whether a growth factor receptor carrying a tyrosine kinase can be functional in IL-3 dependent cells, we used a retroviral vector to introduce the human EGF receptor into a murine IL-3-dependent pre-mast cell line, IC2. The EGF receptors expressed on the infected clones bind EGF with both high and low affinities. EGF stimulates the infected cells for a short term growth response. In the presence of IL-3 and EGF, infected clones differentiate into more mature mast cells characterized by increases in intracellular granulation and histamine content. This differentiation is reversible when EGF is removed. EGF induces tyrosine phosphorylation of several cellular proteins and the expression of oncogenes c fos and c-myc, in a manner analogous to IL-3 stimulation. These results indicate that the EGF receptor is functional in the pre-mast IC2 cells; EGF can support short-term proliferation and activates the signals that induce cell differentiation. Thus, EGF receptor-expressing IC2 cells provide a unique cellular system for in vitro study of mast cell differentiation. PMID- 2531083 TI - Cloned human snRNP proteins B and B' differ only in their carboxy-terminal part. AB - Antibodies to the snRNP proteins B' and B are frequently observed in autoimmune diseases. We analyzed different types of cDNAs encoding these proteins. One type of cDNA encoded a protein whose predicted mol. wt is 24.6 kd, whereas another type encoded a protein with a predicted mol wt of 23.7 kd. When translated in vitro from cDNA transcripts, the apparent mol. wts of these proteins on SDS polyacrylamide gel were 29.5 and 28.5 kd respectively. The main difference between these two types of cDNAs proved to be the presence of an additional sequence of 146 nucleotides in the 3' part of the open reading frame of the clone encoding the shorter protein. This insert contains a termination codon in frame, at 9 nucleotides downstream from the 5' end of the insert. The additional sequence revealed at the 3' end a consensus sequence of vertebrates for intron exon junctions. We demonstrated the presence of mRNAs corresponding with both types of cDNA in human cells. We hypothesize that the B' and B protein are derived from one pre-mRNA by alternative splicing, and show that they differ only at the carboxy terminus, where a proline rich motive is repeated once more in B'. A comparison with amino acid sequences of other cloned snRNP proteins is included. PMID- 2531082 TI - Stereoselective arginine binding is a phylogenetically conserved property of group I self-splicing RNAs. AB - We have examined the reaction of GTP with RNA polymerase transcripts containing the self-splicing RNA precursors from the Neurospora crassa Cob1 intron, and from introns in the sunY, nrdB and td genes of bacteriophage T4. In each case, we find a low Km for GTP (between 0.8 and 11 microM), accompanied by competitive inhibition of the GTP reaction by L-arginine, as was found for the previously examined Tetrahymena nuclear pre-rRNA intron. Trials with the 20 standard amino acids show that inhibition in all cases is specific to the arginine side-chain. L arginine binds with similar affinity to all introns studied, the Ki's ranging from 4.3 to 21 mM. Strikingly, the relative binding preference of the RNAs for L- versus D-arginine is highly conserved: the ratio of L-arg Ki/D-arg Ki, the stereoselectivity, is always close to 2. Because of the conservation of GTP and arginine binding constants and particularly because of the conserved stereoselectivity, we conclude that the evolution of an effective group I RNA transesterification catalyst necessarily produces a specific and stereoselective RNA binding site for a single amino acid. This suggests that selection for an ancient group I RNA could have fortuitously initiated the specific association of RNA sequences with amino acids, a first step toward the genetic code. PMID- 2531084 TI - The adenylate cyclase-coupled vasopressin V2-receptor is highly laterally mobile in membranes of LLC-PK1 renal epithelial cells at physiological temperature. AB - The lateral mobility of membrane-associated hormone receptors has been proposed to play an important role in signal transduction. Direct measurements, however, have shown that the receptors for insulin, epidermal growth factor and beta adrenergic antagonists exhibit low mobility at physiological temperature. The present study, which represents the first report of lateral mobility of a polypeptide hormone receptor coupled to adenylate cyclase, yielded quite different results. The lateral mobility of the vasopressin renal-type (V2) receptor was measured in the basal plasma membrane of cells of the LLC-PK1 porcine epithelial line, using the technique of fluorescence microphotolysis (photobleaching) and a rhodamine-labelled analogue of vasopressin. The analogue, 1-deamino[8-lysine(N6-tetramethylrhodamylaminothiocarbonyl)] vasopressin (TR-LVP) was synthesized and shown to have binding properties and biological activities very similar to those of Arg8-vasopressin (AVP). TR-LVP could be used to label specifically the V2-receptor of living LLC-PK1 cells, whereby LLC-PK1 cells incubated with TR-LVP in the presence of a 100-fold excess of AVP, or cells from the LLC-PK1 V2-receptor-deficient line M18 incubated with TR-LVP could be used as controls for non-specific binding. Using optical sectioning, specific receptor mobility could be measured both in the absence and presence of free TR-LVP. The V2-receptor was found to be largely mobile at 37 degrees C: the mobile fraction (f) was approximately 0.9, and the apparent lateral diffusion coefficient (D) approximately 3.0 X 10(-10) cm2/s. V2-receptor mobility greatly decreased with decreasing temperature: at 10 degrees C f was reduced to approximately 0.1.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2531085 TI - A collagen-binding 59-kd protein (fibromodulin) is structurally related to the small interstitial proteoglycans PG-S1 and PG-S2 (decorin). AB - We have determined the primary structure of a 59 kd collagen binding protein which is present in many types of connective tissues, e.g. cartilage, tendon, skin, sclera and cornea. The amino acid sequence, deducted from a 2662 bp cDNA clone, predicts a 42 kd protein with a high content of leucine residues. Most of the protein consists of homologous 23 amino acid residues repeats with predominantly leucine residues in conserved positions. Similar leucine rich repeats have been identified in a number of proteins including the small interstitial proteoglycans decorin and PG-S1. The 59 kd protein and the two proteoglycans are homologous in their entire sequences suggesting that they have evolved from a common ancestral gene. The 59 kd protein and decorin are also functionally related in that both bind to collagen type I and II, and affect their fibrillogenesis. The substitution with glycosaminoglycan chains appears to be a feature shared by all three members of this family of leucine rich motif extracellular proteins, since the 59 kd protein isolated from cartilage is substituted with at least one keratan sulfate chain. PMID- 2531086 TI - Alternating purine-pyrimidine tracts may promote chromosomal translocations seen in a variety of human lymphoid tumours. AB - Chromosomal abnormalities which are prevalent in human lymphoid tumours are believed to be involved in tumour pathogenesis and their formation may be the result of erroneous activity by the V-D-J recombinase. Frequently, recombinase accessibility is provided by prior transcription of the chromosomal regions involved. However, this may not always be so and in those cases DNA structural features must be involved. Here we examine the breakpoints of three different tumour-specific translocations in the proximity of which we can detect no transcription; two of the translocations involve regions of chromosome 11, (t[11;14] [p13;q11] and t[11;14] [q13;q32]), and the third is a newly described translocation, t[7;10] [q35;q24], involving the T cell receptor beta-gene on chromosome 7. In each case, a purine--pyrimidine tract (potential Z-DNA) occurs near the translocation breakpoints. Four independent tumours with translocation t[11;14] [p13;q11] reveal a 2 kb breakpoint cluster region at 11p13 with an adjacent potential Z-DNA region of 62 bp in length; the analogous purine- pyrimidine tract at 10q24 is 32 bp long. The purine--pyrimidine tract at the 11q13 chromosome breakpoint, however, is very large as it covers approximately 800 bp. The position, surrounding sequence and potential Z-DNA tract of the human 11p13 TALLber is conserved in rodents. These results suggest that the purine- pyrimidine tracts, presumably in the Z-DNA form, can influence chromatin structure giving access for recombinase-mediated translocations. Such putative alterations of chromatin organization are supported by the observation of DNase I hypersensitive sites near to translocation breakpoints on 10q24 and 11p13. PMID- 2531088 TI - Internalization of IgE receptors on rat basophilic leukemic cells by phorbol ester. Comparison with endocytosis induced by receptor aggregation. AB - Phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) can induce a rapid and significant decrease in the expression of IgE receptors on RBL-2H3 cells. Fluorescence microscopy confirmed that the down-regulation is due to internalization of receptors. The endocytotic response to PMA shares several characteristics with endocytosis induced by immunochemical aggregation of surface-bound monomeric IgE: the rates of internalization both have a t1/2 of about 5 min, a maximum of 35% of the surface-bound IgE can be endocytosed by the action of PMA (50% by receptor aggregation), endocytosis is sustained for at least up to 60 min, neither stimulus requires extracellular Ca2+ and endocytosis induced by either stimulus is an active process, i.e., is dependent on temperature and cellular energy. Biochemical studies revealed some differences between the endocytotic responses to the two stimuli. After prolonged treatment of cells with dexamethasone, only endocytosis induced by PMA is inhibited. Cells depleted of protein kinase C by prolonged exposure to PMA can sustain a significant endocytotic response to aggregation of IgE receptors, but become completely desensitized to PMA. These data suggest that different biochemical pathways mediate the signals from the two stimuli and that protein kinase C is directly involved in endocytosis induced by PMA but does not have a major role in endocytosis induced by receptor aggregation. PMID- 2531087 TI - Three pure chaperone proteins of Escherichia coli--SecB, trigger factor and GroEL -form soluble complexes with precursor proteins in vitro. AB - Diverse studies of three cytoplasmic proteins of Escherichia coli--SecB, trigger factor and GroEL--have suggested that they can maintain precursor proteins in a conformation which is competent for membrane translocation. These proteins have been termed 'chaperones'. Using purified chaperone proteins and precursor protein substrates, we find that each of these chaperones can stabilize proOmpA for translocation and for the translocation-ATPase. These chaperones bind to proOmpA to form isolable complexes. SecB and GroEL will also form complexes with another exported protein, prePhoE. In contrast, these chaperones do not form stable complexes with a variety of soluble proteins such as SecA protein, bovine serum albumin, ovalbumin or ribonuclease A. While chaperones may transiently interact with soluble proteins to catalyze their folding, the stable interaction between chaperones and presecretory proteins, maintaining an open conformation which is essential for translocation, may commit these proteins to the secretion pathway. PMID- 2531089 TI - Isolation and characterization of IgE receptors from rat intestinal mucosal mast cells. AB - High-(Fc epsilon RI) and low-(Fc epsilon RII) affinity IgE receptors were isolated from surface radioiodinated, Nonidet-P40-solubilized rat intestinal mucosal mast cells (IMMC) and compared with those on rat peritoneal mast cells (PMC) and rat basophilic leukemia (RBL) cells. Fc epsilon RII were isolated by affinity chromatography using IgE-Sepharose or by anti-Fc epsilon RII antisera and protein A-Sepharose. The surface-exposed, IgE-binding alpha subunits of Fc epsilon RI [Fc epsilon RI alpha] were isolated by affinity chromatography using IgE and anti-IgE-Sepharose. Fc epsilon RI alpha on IMMC had an apparent molecular mass of 59 kDa, somewhat larger than that of PMC (51 kDa), RBL-2H3 cells (51 kDa) or RBL-CA10.7 cells (46 kDa). Brief (45 s) incubation of IMMC or PMC in glycine HCl, pH 3, prior to iodination removed much of the surface-bound IgE. This permitted more thorough labeling of the receptors, but had no affect on the estimate of receptor size. Surprisingly and in contrast to acid-treated PMC, upon anti-IgE-Sepharose isolation acid-treated IMMC yielded an intensely radioactive Fc epsilon RI alpha band in the absence of added IgE. Such a finding suggests that IMMC, more so than PMC, may have an intracellular store of IgE, as has been suggested by many others. IMMC also differed from PMC in the number of forms of Fc epsilon RII isolated; 50-kDa and 58-kDa forms of Fc epsilon RII were obtained from IMMC, whereas PMC yielded most often a single 56-kDa Fc epsilon RII band. These results were mimicked by the two RBL cell sublines: RBL-2H3 cells yielded two Fc epsilon RII (46 kDa and 55 kDa), but only one form of Fc epsilon RII (54 kDa) was obtained from RBL-CA10.7 cells. Thus, the two subtypes of rat mast cells, which have previously been shown to differ in mediator profile and responsiveness to secretagogues and antiallergic drugs, are also distinguished by differences in IgER profile. PMID- 2531090 TI - DNA fragmentation and cell death mediated by T cell antigen receptor/CD3 complex on a leukemia T cell line. AB - An anti-T cell receptor (TcR) monoclonal antibody (mAb), LC4, directed against a human leukemic T cell line, SUP-T13, caused DNA fragmentation ("apoptosis") and cell death upon binding to this cell line. Cross-linking of receptor molecules was necessary for this effect since F(ab')2, but not Fab', fragments of LC4 could induce cell death. Five anti-CD3 mAb tested also caused apoptosis, but only when they were presented on a solid phase. Interestingly, soluble anti-CD3 mAb induced calcium flux and had an additive effect on the calcium flux and interleukin 2 receptor expression induced by LC4, but these anti-CD3 mAb reversed the growth inhibition and apoptosis caused by LC4. The calcium ionophore A23187, but not the protein kinase C activator phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), also induced apoptosis, suggesting that protein kinase C activation alone does not cause apoptosis, although PMA is growth inhibitory. These results suggest that two distinct biological phenomena can accompany stimulation of the TcR/CD3 complex. In both cases, calcium flux and interleukin 2 receptor expression is induced, but only in one case is apoptosis and cell death seen. The signal initiating apoptosis can be selectively prevented by binding CD3 portion of the receptor in this cell line. This difference in signals mediated by the TcR/CD3 complex may be important in explaining the process of thymic selection, as well as in choosing anti-TcR mAb for therapeutic use. PMID- 2531091 TI - T cell receptor expression on immature thymocytes with in vivo and in vitro precursor potential. AB - Immature CD8-CD4- double-negative (DN) thymocytes differentiate intrathymically into CD8+CD4- and CD8-CD4+ thymocytes and migrate to the periphery. This differentiation proceeds through several intermediate phenotypic changes in the expression of CD8 and CD4. We have recently established the existence of a CD8loCD4lo cell population in murine thymus that can repopulate the irradiated thymus in vivo and differentiate rapidly in vitro to CD8+CD4+ double-positive (DP) cells. The CD8loCD4lo cells score as DN upon direct cytofluorometric analysis, yet are distinct from true DN cells by various criteria. Experimental evidence strongly suggests that they are descendants of true DN in the maturation pathway. In the experiments presented here, we further characterize this CD8loCD4lo thymocyte population. Northern blot and RNA protection analysis reveal that these cells transcribe full length mRNA for the T cell receptor (TcR)alpha chain, unlike the less mature interleukin 2 receptor-positive DN thymocytes. Surface expression of the TcR-associated CD3 molecule occurs on approximately 15% of these cells at low levels characteristic of immature cells. In the course of in vitro differentiation a vast majority (approximately 80%) of these cells convert to CD8+CD4+ and significant numbers of the brightly staining DP convertants (11%-34% on day 1 and 48%-68% on day 2) express immature levels of CD3. Our results indicate that CD8lo, CD4lo cells might be the first thymic subset to rearrange TcR alpha chain genes and express TcR alpha/beta heterodimer on the surface at levels characteristic of immature cells. Furthermore, the surface expression of TcR persists on the in vitro progeny of these thymocytes. PMID- 2531092 TI - Effects of atrial natriuretic peptide on urinary kallikrein excretion and renal function in rats. AB - We investigated whether the renal kallikrein-kinin system is involved in the renal effects of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) by measuring the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), urine volume (UV) and urinary excretion of sodium (UNaV) and kallikrein (UkkV) in 4 groups of 10 anesthetized rats before and during (two 10 min periods) the i.v. infusion of Ringer solution (control group) or different doses of ANP (0.25, 0.5 and 1 microgram, respectively). The administration of ANP was associated with a marked and significant increase in UV, UNaV, UkkV and GFR. The diuretic and natriuretic responses to ANP were dose-related, while the changes in GFR and UkkV were short-lived and not related to the dose of ANP. There was no relationship between UV or UNaV and UkkV after ANP administration. In contrast, UkkV correlated closely with GFR (r = 0.675, P less than 0.001). These data do not support the hypothesis that the kallikrein-kinin system contributes to the diuretic and natriuretic effects of ANP, but it might be involved in the renal hemodynamic action of this peptide. PMID- 2531093 TI - Differential mechanisms mediating beta-endorphin- and morphine-induced analgesia in mice. AB - Effects of yohimbine, methysergide and naloxone given intrathecally (i.t.) and naloxone given intracerebroventricularly (i.c.v.) on inhibition of the tail-flick and hot-plate response induced by beta-endorphin and morphine given i.c.v. were studied in male ICR mice. Yohimbine (1.5 and 15 micrograms) and methysergide (1.5 and 15 micrograms) injected i.t. antagonized inhibition of the tail-flick response induced by morphine but not beta-endorphin administered i.c.v. On the other hand, naloxone (20 ng) injected i.t. antagonized inhibition of the tail flick response induced by i.c.v. administered beta-endorphin but not morphine. Yohimbine and methysergide given i.t. did not antagonize inhibition of the hot plate response induced by morphine nor did naloxone given i.t. antagonized i.c.v. beta-endorphin-induced inhibition of the hot-plate response. Naloxone given i.c.v. was more effective in antagonizing morphine-induced inhibition of the tail flick and hot-plate response than inhibition induced by beta-endorphin given i.c.v. Naloxone at doses (0.1 and 1 microgram) which effectively reversed inhibition of the tail-flick response to i.c.v. morphine was not effective in reversing the i.c.v. beta-endorphin-induced inhibition of the tail-flick response. Our results indicate that beta-endorphin and morphine produce analgesia by stimulating separate types of opioid receptors, epsilon- for for beta endorphin and mu- for morphine, and activate separate descending pain modulatory control systems. The supraspinal epsilon system stimulated by beta-endorphin is mediated by activation of spinal opioid receptors whereas the supraspinal mu system stimulated by morphine is mediated by activation of spinal alpha 2 adrenoceptors and serotonin receptors for the production of analgesia. PMID- 2531094 TI - Platelet behavior in essential thrombocythemia: a study of 31 cases. PMID- 2531095 TI - Interaction of smooth muscle caldesmon with S-100 protein. AB - The interaction of caldesmon with certain Ca-binding proteins was investigated by means of electrophoresis under non-denaturating conditions. In the presence of Ca2+ calmodulin, troponin C and S-100 protein form a complex with caldesmon. No complex formation takes place in the absence of Ca2+. Lactalbumin and pike parvalbumin (pI4.2) do not interact with caldesmon independently of Ca concentration. Both S-100 protein and calmodulin effectively inhibit phosphorylation of caldesmon by Ca-phospholipid-dependent protein kinase. At low ionic strength S-100 protein reverses the inhibitory action of caldesmon on the skeletal muscle acto-heavy meromyosin ATPase more effectively than calmodulin. It is supposed that in certain tissues and cell compartments the proteins belonging to the S-100 family are able to substitute for calmodulin in the caldesmon dependent regulation of actin and myosin interaction. PMID- 2531096 TI - Uni-site catalysis by Escherichia coli F1-ATPase with different numbers of bound nucleotides. AB - We prepared two types of E. coli F1 by slightly different gel filtration procedures of the purified F1: F1(II) contained about 2 mol, and F1(V) about 5 mol of bound adenine nucleotides per mol of the enzyme. Thus F1(II) had more than 2, possibly 3, vacant catalytic sites, while F1(V) had less than one vacant catalytic site. The rate of ATP hydrolysis in uni-site catalysis (in the presence of inorganic phosphate) was about 3-fold higher with F1(II) than with F1(V), suggesting that ADP and inorganic phosphate bound at the catalytic sites of F1(V) changed the kinetics of uni-site catalysis significantly. PMID- 2531097 TI - [Local treatment of acne vulgaris with erythromycin]. PMID- 2531098 TI - Reduction of aryl-nitroso compounds by pyridine and flavin coenzymes. AB - 1. A systematic kinetic investigation of the reduction of aryl-nitroso compounds by pyridine and flavin coenzymes and their analogs, in enzymatic and nonenzymatic systems, has been reported. 2. Two main groups of nitroso compounds have been investigated, representatives nitroso-benzene and 1-nitroso-2-naphthol; in all enzymatic and nonenzymatic systems, the former was always reduced to phenyl hydroxyl-amine and the latter to 1-amino-2-naphthol. 3. Pyridine compounds included NADH, APAD-4H2 and DBNA-4H2 in nonenzymatic systems, and liver alcohol dehydrogenase. Flavin compounds included 1,5-dihydrolumiflavin and various forms of reduced 5-ethyl-lumiflavin, in nonenzymatic systems, and the flavoenzymes glucose-oxidase and NADPH-cytochrome P450 reductase. 5. Pyridine coenzymes and their analogs reduced nitroso compounds by a direct hydride transfer, with a primary kinetic isotope of 9.5 +/- 2.2. 6. All flavin compounds (glucose-oxidase and its nonenzymatic analog 1,5-dihydrolumiflavin and NADPH-cytochrome P450 reductase and its analog 5-ethyl-1,5-dihydrolumiflavin) reduced aryl-nitroso compounds with high efficiency (k2 greater than 10(5)M(-1) min(-1)). 7. The flavin compounds have been shown to be much more efficient reductans of nitroso compounds, compared to pyridine coenzymes, both in enzymatic and nonenzymatic systems; the only exception to this rule presented the extremely efficient reduction of p-substituted aryl-nitroso compounds by liver alcohol dehydrogenase. PMID- 2531099 TI - [Characteristics of human body temperature regulation and the functional activity of the skin thermoreceptors during seasonal adaptation to the high temperature of an arid zone]. PMID- 2531100 TI - Ability of human colonic epithelium to express the 4F2 antigen, the common acute lymphoblastic leukemia antigen, and the transferrin receptor. Studies in inflammatory bowel disease and after in vitro exposure to different stimuli. AB - We investigated the ability of isolated human colonic epithelial cells to express the common acute lymphoblastic leukemia antigen (CALLA), the transferrin receptor, and the 4F2 antigen in response to different types of stimuli. The expression of these markers was assessed by immunofluorescence using monoclonal antibodies. Thirty-two percent of freshly isolated colonic epithelial cells from actively inflamed mucosa of patients with inflammatory bowel disease expressed the 4F2 antigen, 28% the transferrin receptor, and 13% the CALLA. Normal colonic epithelial cells were cultured and the kinetics of expression of the three antigens was studied. A significant increase in the expression of the three markers was observed throughout the culture period in response to the lectin phytohemagglutinin and the epidermal growth factor. The kinetics of expression of the 4F2 antigen and the CALLA after lectin stimulation appeared to differ from that observed after epidermal growth factor. At the end of the cultures one-third of the cells expressed the 4F2 antigen and the transferrin receptor, whereas one fifth were positive for CALLA. Thus, after these cultures the expression of the three markers was quantitatively similar to that observed with freshly isolated cells from inflamed mucosa. gamma-Interferon markedly induced the 4F2 antigen but had no effect on the transferrin receptor and the CALLA. These data demonstrate that colonic epithelium is capable of expressing the 4F2 antigen and the CALLA in association with the transferrin receptor. PMID- 2531101 TI - More bang for the buck in Bangkok: using hepatitis B virus vaccine without hepatitis B immune globulin. PMID- 2531102 TI - [The course of atrial natriuretic peptide, aldosterone and antidiuretic hormone in normal pregnancy]. AB - Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), consisting of 28 aminoacids, is a recently discovered cardiac hormone involved in blood-volume homeostasis. Pregnancy is associated with an increase in blood volume expansion, therefore an increase in ANP-concentration would have been expected. To test this hypothesis ANP, Aldosterone and Vasopressin, concentrations of 229 women with normal pregnancies at different gestational ages were measured and compared with values found in a non-pregnant control group of 24 women. Mean plasma ANP was increased during pregnancy, but significant differences were noted only after 36 weeks of gestation. Also plasma aldosterone increased significantly during pregnancy, whilst vasopressin levels showed no significant change compared to the non pregnant group. PMID- 2531104 TI - [Second-look laparoscopy in artificially-induced ascites]. AB - Laparoscopy with artificial ascites creates a larger space between organs and makes an accurate inspection of the entire intra-peritoneal abdomen possible. Second-look laparoscopy with artificial ascites was performed 91 times on 63 tumour-patients. With the reliability of a second-look laparotomy, this method has the advantage of less stress for the patient, and an early discharge from hospital. The procedure can theoretically be repeated multiple times. PMID- 2531103 TI - [A new experimental method for the treatment of pelvic wall recurrencies of gynecological malignancies]. AB - Pelvic side wall recurrences of gynecological malignancies subsequent to primary or adjuvant radiation therapy have a bad prognosis, although in almost half of the cases, distant metastases are not present at the time of diagnosis of the local tumor progression. A radical operative resection of the pelvic wall recurrence is rarely possible and a second conventional percutaneous or intracavitary irradiation with a tumoricidal dose is no longer feasible, because of the limited radiation tolerance of the surrounding pelvic tissue. The different forms of chemotherapy applied at present are not curative. Based on considerations of tumor and radiation biology, we propose a new experimental treatment mode after subtotal tumor resection. Intraoperatively, guiding tubes for afterloading HDR brachytherapy are fixed equidistantly on the tumor bed resp. residual tumor at the pelvic side wall. Coverage of this area by a rectus abdominis muscle flap or de-epithelialized myocutaneous flap improves fixation and creates a protective distance between radiosensitive pelvic structures and the radioactive source inserted postoperatively. In addition, improved vascularization by the flap might reduce the potential of hypoxia induced radioresistance of the residual tumor. Under these circumstances it appears possible, to deliver a second tumoricidal radiation dose of a small volume to a precisely defined area of the pelvic side wall. PMID- 2531106 TI - Phage particle-mediated gene transfer of recombinant cosmids to cultured mammalian cells. AB - An efficient procedure for the introduction of recombinant cosmids into cultured mammalian cells consists of the following steps. Cosmids were packaged, in vitro, into lambda phage particles and transduced into Escherichia coli hosts lysogenized with thermo-inducible lambda c Its phage. The introduced cosmids were repackaged into phage particles in the thermo-induced hosts. The efficiency of such in vivo cosmid packaging was further improved by construction of pTC vectors that carried three cohesive end sites (cos) of phage lambda, arrayed in tandem. Two types of cosmids, in almost equal numbers (i.e., cosmids with one cos and cosmids with two cos), were obtained from a cosmid library constructed with pTC vectors. The efficiency of packaging in vivo of cosmids with two cos, was found to be 7-20 times higher than that of corresponding cosmids with only one cos. Use of a high-copy-number derivative of pTCl further improved the phage yield by 20- to 30-fold. The packaged cosmids, which carried the thymidine kinase-encoding gene of herpes simplex virus type 1 as a selective marker, were introduced into mouse Ltk- cells with an efficiency of 10(-5), by the phage transfer method [Ishiura et al., Mol. Cell. Biol. 2 (1982) 607-616]. PMID- 2531105 TI - Interaction between the sbcC gene of Escherichia coli and the gam gene of phage lambda. AB - gam mutants of phage lambda carrying long palindromes fail to form plaques on wild-type Escherichia coli but do grow on strains that are mutant in the sbcC gene. gam + lambda carrying the same palindrome grow on both hosts and on a host deleted for the recB, C and D genes. These results suggest that the Gam protein of lambda, known to interact also with E. coli's recBCD protein, can interact with the product of the sbcC gene. PMID- 2531107 TI - Plasmid vectors for constructing translational fusions to the B subunit of cholera toxin. AB - A family of plasmid cloning vectors has been developed for creating translational fusions to the ctxB gene encoding the B subunit of cholera toxin (CTB) in Escherichia coli. These vectors permit insertion of transcriptionally and translationally competent gene sequences upstream from ctxB. To test the utility of the system, a portion of the glucosyltransferase B (GTF) gene (gtfB) from the cariogenic bacterium Streptococcus mutans GS-5 (Bratthall serotype c), encoding the N-terminal one-third of the protein, was inserted into each vector. E. coli lysates containing the constructs were partially purified by passage over a GM1 ganglioside affinity column. Western blotting analysis of the column retentate from one of the lysates revealed the presence of a novel 58-kDa protein which cross-reacted with antisera to GTF and CTB. These vectors are of general use for making other translational fusions to ctxB. The high binding affinity of CTB can be exploited in purifying large polypeptides fused to this relatively small protein. Moreover, these vectors can be used to create neoantigens with altered immunogenicity for use in polypeptide-based vaccines. PMID- 2531108 TI - Negative effect of a cis-acting pBR322 element on adenovirus E1a gene expression. AB - A sequence element within plasmid pBR322 has a cis-acting negative effect on the expression of a cloned Ad gene in transient expression assays. The negative element is located between the PvuII and Tth111I restriction sites on pBR322 (nt 2068-2223). This element was also shown to be responsible for the decrease in focus number, when plasmids carrying Ad2 E1 genes were used to transform baby rat kidney cells. In a similar manner, this element diminished the number of G418 resistant cell foci, when plasmids containing the neo marker gene under the control of E1a promoter were used. Plasmid stability in transfected cells was not modified by deletion of this cis-acting negative element. PMID- 2531109 TI - Nucleotide sequence of pho-4+, encoding a phosphate-repressible phosphate permease of Neurospora crassa. AB - The nucleotide (nt) sequence of the Neurospora crassa pho-4+ gene, which encodes a phosphate-repressible phosphate permease, has been determined. The gene specifies a protein of 590 amino acids (aa) and contains two introns. Two RNA transcripts of 3.3 and 2.4 kb have been identified, and transcription start points (tsp) and termination sites and/or processing sites have been located. The 3.3-kb message is initiated about 890 nt upstream from the tsp for the 2.4-kb transcript. A hydropathy profile of the aa sequence suggests ten to twelve membrane-spanning helices with a large hydrophilic domain between the eighth and ninth helices. This model for the predicted secondary structure of the protein is very similar to models proposed for other sequenced integral membrane proteins from both prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Since very few permease-encoding genes of eukaryotes have been examined in molecular detail, it will be of interest to compare the sequence of pho-4+ with those encoding other anion transport proteins, as they become available. PMID- 2531110 TI - Correlation between carotid blood flow and brain atrophy in patients with multi infarct dementia. AB - The relation between carotid blood flow measured by Doppler spectrum analysis and brain atrophy on computed tomography (CT) was studied in 22 subjects with multiple lacunar cerebral infarctions. The subjects were divided into two groups, 7 patients with multi-infarct dementia (MID) (mean age 73 years) and 15 nondemented lacunar stroke subjects (NDLS) (mean age 66 years), according to DSM III criteria. All subjects had a score of 7 points or more on Hachinski's ischemic score and showed no carotid artery stenosis. Systolic peak frequency of the common carotid artery (CCA) was measured by Doppler spectrum analysis (Angioscan II). Brain atrophy was measured quantitatively on CT images by two dimensional measurement using a digitizer. Peak frequencies were lower in MID than in NDLS. Brain atrophy was more severe in MID than in NDLS. There was a significant correlation between peak frequencies and brain atrophy in all subjects. These results indicate that CCA blood flow may reflect brain function in patients with multiple lacunar infarctions. PMID- 2531111 TI - Adriamycin affects glomerular renal function: evidence for the involvement of oxygen radicals. AB - The early nephrotoxic effect of the antitumor drug adriamycin (ADR) is suggested to be related to the generation of oxygen free radicals. Therefore the O2 dependence and the influence of free radical scavengers were studied in the model of the isolated perfused single glomerulus of Myxine glutinosa and by histochemical demonstration of the glomerular ATP-ase. In Myxine, the glomerular ATP-ase activity was decreased after injection of ADR (5 mg/kg, i.v.). Both ADR treated Myxine and controls were exposed for 48 h to an artificial atmosphere of 20% O2/80% N2 or 80% O2/20% N2, respectively. After 10 days a significant decrease of the hydraulic conductivity (k) was measured in the experimental group exposed to 80% O2 (k-values expressed as nl/s.mm Hg.mm2: controls (7): 0.059 +/- 0.017; ADR (7): 0.033 +/- 0.026). The reduction of k following the administration of ADR (20 mg/kg) could be prevented by the sulphydryl donor N-acetylcysteine (NAC). The sieving coefficient for albumin (phi) was significantly increased in ADR-treated animals, showing no O2-dependence (phi x 10(-2): controls (7) 1.3 +/- 0.2; ADR 20% O2 (8): 8.1 +/- 9.6; ADR 80% O2 (7): 6.9 +/- 6.7). phi was not affected by NAC. The lipid peroxide levels in liver, kidney and heart of Myxine increased after the administration of ADR, peaking by day 2 to 5. The circulation disorders of ADR-treated Myxine were not due to an accumulation of the drug in the heart, but rather to a lack of the intracellular antioxidant glutathione. It is concluded that the early nephrotoxic effect of ADR, as reflected by a decreased glomerular ATP-ase activity, is mediated by free radical formation. Oxidative stress on membrane compounds seems to reduce the water permeability of the glomerular barrier, while the ADR-induced sieving defect may be due to oxygen independent pathological mechanisms. PMID- 2531112 TI - Impaired response to alloantigens in HIV positive hemophilic patients. AB - The alloantigen responses of hemophilic patients was evaluated using a unidirectional mixed lymphocyte culture (MLC). The results of this study indicate that both the ability of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) to proliferate in response to alloantigens and the capacity to stimulate the MLC are impaired in hemophilic patients infected with the human immune deficiency virus (HIV). These defects cannot be overcome by addition of exogenous interleukin-2 (IL-2) and are not related to the absence of IL-2 receptors (IL-2R). Lack of response was evident in PBMC from HIV+ patients with a high proportion of IL-2R+ cells. The number of IL-2 cells was similar in HIV+ and HIV- individuals, and higher than that of normal controls. Impaired MLC proliferation was not related to the occurrence of clinical symptoms. Apparently, MLC is a useful procedure for distinguishing the cell mediated immunity defects associated with HIV infection and unrelated to replacement therapy in hemophilia patients. PMID- 2531113 TI - [A pilot study on the effect of atrial natriuretic peptide on intraocular pressure in the human]. AB - The presence of receptors for atrial natriuretic factor (HANaP) on the ciliary body leads to the conclusion that HANaP may play a role in the regulation of intraocular pressure. In two groups of patients (each group consisted of ten patients) the injection of 100 mg HANaP was followed by a significant lowering of the intraocular pressure. This effect could be seen over a period of 4 h. The intraocular pressure was reduced by about 25% of the baseline pressure. PMID- 2531114 TI - Plasma atrial natriuretic peptide, plasma renin activity and aldosterone during treatment of hyperthyroidism due to Graves' disease. AB - Plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), plasma renin activity (PRA) and aldosterone were consecutively measured during methimazole treatment in patients with hyperthyroidism due to Graves' disease. ANP values of untreated hyperthyroid patients varied greatly from patient to patient, but decreased progressively with a decrease of serum thyroid hormone concentration during methimazole treatment. PRA was elevated in hyperthyroid patients but less aldosterone was secreted as evidenced by lower aldosterone/PRA ratio in these patients than in normal subjects and in hypertensive patients treated with thiazide. In addition, aldosterone/PRA ratio increased progressively with a decrease of ANP during methimazole treatment. The data indicated that ANP secretion was increased and ANP thus secreted depressed aldosterone secretion in hyperthyroid patients. Propranolol depressed pulse rate but failed to affect ANP secretion. It is suggested that thyroid hormone specifically acts on myocytes to stimulate ANP secretion but physiologic significance of such increased ANP secretion remains to be solved. PMID- 2531115 TI - Atrial natriuretic factor in liver cirrhosis--the influence of volume expansion. AB - Plasma levels of atrial natriuretic factor (ANP) were examined in 12 patients with liver cirrhosis (6 with ascites) and 6 controls before and after the administration of the infusion of 2000 ml of saline solution per 70 kg of body weight during 2 hours. Basal concentration of ANF tended to be slightly, but nonsignificantly higher in patients with ascitic liver cirrhosis (5.5 +/- 1.3 fmol/ml) than in controls (3.0 +/- 1.0 fmol/ml) and in patients with non-ascitic liver cirrhosis (4.6 +/- 1.3 fmol/ml). Saline administration led to the comparable increase of plasma ANF in ascitic (14.2 +/- 4.0 fmol/ml) and non ascitic cirrhotics (15.7 +/- 3.7 fmol/ml) and in controls (12.4 +/- 4.3 fmol/ml). The increase of plasma ANF was accompanied by the suppression of plasma renin activity (PRA) and plasma aldosterone (PA) in all groups; in ascitic patients, however, PRA and PA remained above the normal range. While in controls and non ascitic cirrhotics saline administration led to the increase of urine flow rate /from 0.74 +/- 0.13 to 2.04 +/- 0.44 ml/min, P less than 0.01, in controls; from 0.83 +/- 0.05 to 1.28 +/- 0.07 ml/min, P less than 0.01, in non-ascitic cirrhotics) and urinary sodium excretion (from 110.7 +/- 21.3 to 364.8 +/- 74.4 umol/min, P less than 0.01, in controls; from 125.0 +/- 16.7 to 218.7 +/- 24.3 umol/min, P less than 0.01 in non-ascitic cirrhotics), in patients with ascitic liver cirrhosis neither urine flow rate (from 0.66 +/- 0.1 to 0.72 +/- 0.15 ml/min, n.s.), nor urinary sodium excretion (from 16.7 +/- 9.9 to 54.2 +/- 40.3 umol/min, n.s.) changed significantly.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2531116 TI - Studies on the composition of the mononuclear cell infiltrates in liver from patients with chronic active delta hepatitis. AB - To evaluate the immune process involved in the pathogenesis of liver cell damage in chronic hepatitis delta virus infection, a panel of monoclonal antibodies against pan T cells (Leu 4), inducer/helper T cells (Leu 3a+3b), suppressor/cytotoxic T cells (Leu 2a), B cells (Leu 12), monocytes/macrophages (Leu M3) and NK/K cells Leu 7) was used to characterize the subsets of the mononuclear cell infiltrates in livers from 12 patients with chronic type D hepatitis, with special emphasis on the areas of periportal piecemeal necrosis and intralobular necrosis. A control group of 12 patients with chronic type B hepatitis was also studied for comparison. The results revealed that the livers from patients with chronic type D hepatitis showed a prominent mononuclear cell infiltration in portal/periportal and intralobular areas. Furthermore, the vast majority of the mononuclear cell infiltrates in liver were T cells, which constituted more than 80% of the cells in the areas of periportal piecemeal necrosis and intralobular necrosis and about 60% of the cells in the portal tract, whereas B cells, monocytes/macrophages and NK/K cells were relatively uncommon. Among T cell populations, the inducer/helper T cells were predominant in the portal were predominant in the areas of piecemeal necrosis and intralobular necrosis. The distribution of the mononuclear cell subsets in relation to the different topographical areas of the liver in patients with chronic type B hepatitis was essentially the same as that observed in chronic type D hepatitis. Our findings therefore suggest that T cell-mediated immunity might play a role in the pathogenesis of chronic type D hepatitis, similar to that suggested for chronic type B hepatitis. PMID- 2531118 TI - [The granulomatous inflammation in bacterial infections]. AB - The relevance of the granuloma to protection against intracellular pathogens has been recognized for a long time. More recently, it has become clear that the cell interactions which take place in a granuloma are highly complex. It appears that not only activation of antibacterial function in infected macrophages by helper T cells, but also lysis of infected host cells is of importance and that a coordinated interplay between different populations of T cells and mononuclear phagocytes is required for effective host resistance. PMID- 2531117 TI - Effect of penicillin and spectinomycin given for urethritis and cervicitis with Neisseria gonorrhoeae: high prevalence of penicillin-resistant isolates. AB - Efficacy of single-dose spectinomycin (TRO: 2 g intramuscularly) was compared with that of aqueous procaine penicillin G (APPG:4.8 x 10(6) units) plus 1 g of probenecid for treatment of gonococcal urethritis and cervicitis. Cure rates of the 210 patients who received TRO and 190 patients who received APPG were 97.6% and 91.1%, respectively. MICs of antibiotics were determined using the agar dilution method. Those isolates with MICs of APPG of less than 1.0 microgram/ml had low failure rates (2.9%), while strains with increased resistance to APPG (MICs greater than or equal to 1.0 microgram/ml) had higher failure rates (24%). Treatment failures seen with TRO were not correlated to isolates with the higher MICs. Clinical results suggest TRO could be given for treatment of genital gonorrhoea in Puerto Rico due to the high prevalence of both chromosomally mediated penicillin-resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae (20%) and penicillinase producing Neisseria gonorrhoeae (7.5%) strains and the high rate of failure seen with the use of APPG. PMID- 2531119 TI - Relative contributions of dietary Na+ and Cl- to salt-sensitive hypertension. AB - The effect of dietary NaCl on blood pressure has generally been attributed to the sodium ion. However, recent evidence indicates that the anion accompanying sodium plays an important role in determining the magnitude of the blood pressure increase in response to a high dietary intake of NaCl. The purpose of this review is to describe studies of blood pressure responses in several experimental models of salt-sensitive hypertension and in hypertensive humans to selective dietary sodium loading (without chloride) and to selective dietary chloride loading (without sodium). The full expression of salt sensitivity depends on high dietary intakes of both sodium and chloride. This observation has implications for understanding mechanisms contributing to NaCl-induced hypertension in the susceptible host. PMID- 2531120 TI - Effects of cilazapril on the cerebral circulation in spontaneously hypertensive rats. AB - Chronic hypertension is associated with a lower cerebral vascular reserve due to thickening of the media of cerebral vessels. The goal of the present study was to determine if long-term inhibition of angiotensin converting enzyme with cilazapril, a new long-acting angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor, could improve cerebral vascular reserve. For this purpose, two groups of 12 spontaneously hypertensive rats were compared. One group was treated with 10 mg/kg/day cilazapril from 14 weeks to 33 weeks of age and was compared with a group treated with placebo. A third group of 12 Wistar-Kyoto rats treated with placebo was used as reference. At the end of the treatment period, cerebral vascular reserve was evaluated by measuring cerebral blood flow (radioactive microspheres) at rest and during maximal vasodilation induced by seizures provoked by bicuculline. Then, the rats were perfusion-fixed, and morphometry of the cerebral vasculature was performed. Cerebral vascular reserve was severely impaired in the spontaneously hypertensive rats since their maximal cerebral blood flow was decreased by 52% compared with the Wistar-Kyoto rats. Cilazapril normalized cerebral blood flow reserve. This normalization was associated with a decreased thickness of the medial layer in the carotid artery, the middle cerebral artery, and in the pial arteries larger than 100 microns. Further studies are required to determine whether this decreased medial thickness is due to the normalization of blood pressure induced by cilazapril or to the reduction of trophic factors such as angiotensin II. PMID- 2531121 TI - Immunoregulatory effect of antibody on delayed-type hypersensitivity in mice. AB - We analyzed the conditions for in vivo toleration of delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH). The intravenous injection of a high dose of keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH) into BALB/c mice did not induce DTH in vivo, but the serum titers of the anti-KLH antibody were significantly elevated. This lack of DTH response was antigen-specific, and the intravenous injection of the antigen induced effector-phase suppressor T cells. The findings suggested that the lack of a DTH response brought about by the intravenous injection of a high dose of antigen was not immunological tolerance. Treatment with a high dose (250 mg/kg) of cyclophosphamide - but not a low dose (50 mg/kg) - enhanced the DTH, but suppressed antibody production. These results indicate that humoral immune response participate in the regulation of DTH. In addition, the transfer of serum or immunoglobulin from mice that were injected intravenously with a high dose of the antigen suppressed the DTH. We concluded that the antibodies regulate DTH in the antigen-specific manner. PMID- 2531122 TI - Human glioma cell lines expressing the common acute lymphoblastic leukemia antigen (cALLa) have neutral endopeptidase activity. AB - Several established human glioma cell lines have been previously shown to express the common acute lymphoblastic leukemia antigen (cALLa, CD 10), an important marker in the diagnosis of human acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL). The amino acid sequence of cALLa is identical to that of neutral endopeptidase (NEP,E.C.3.4.24.11), and cALLa expressed on leukemia and melanoma cell lines is enzymatically active NEP. In the present study, we investigated whether cALLa expressed on glioma cell lines is active NEP. We detected cALLa on 10 out of 13 glioma cell lines using 2 different anti-cALLa MAbs (A12-G4 and FAH99). NEP antigen, as detected by immunostaining with an anti-NEP MAb (135A3), was expressed on the same 10 lines. cALLa-positive, but not cALLa-negative cell lines displayed an endopeptidase activity. This activity could be blocked by phosphoramidon, a specific inhibitor of NEP. Furthermore, mRNAs hybridizing to an NEP-specific probe were present in cALLa-positive glioma cells but not in cALLa negative cells. Taken together, the results provide strong evidence that cALLa positive glioma cell lines express endopeptidase activity on the cell surface. PMID- 2531123 TI - Pupils' knowledge of mental handicap: a study of second year pupils in a British comprehensive school. AB - As a prelude to an awareness course in mental handicap an exploration was made of the relevant cultural knowledge of pupils in the second year of a comprehensive school. The study is in two parts. The first consists of a description of how gender differences emerged as an important theme in interviews with one class of pupils. In the second part the findings of a questionnaire study of 179 second year pupils are described and commented upon. Information was obtained on their experience, images and knowledge of and feelings about mental handicap. Their views on integration could be categorized under five headings (i) a productive learning experience for mentally handicapped pupils (ii) benefits to 'normal' pupils (iii) the need for a special environment (iv) being 'picked on' (v) not a productive learning experience for either party. Boy/girl differences were noted in responses to certain questions. In the discussion section, the implications for the curriculum are drawn out in relation to gender differences, pupils' existing knowledge of mental handicap, pupils' views on the important topic of integration, and language awareness. PMID- 2531124 TI - A comparative study of vocational development of able bodied and disabled persons. AB - The vocational development of 547 disabled students in the United States and the Federal Republic of Germany was compared with a group of able bodied students in the U.S. on the Goldberg Scale of Vocational Development (GSVD), measuring plans, realism, initiative, work values, commitment, and occupational awareness. The students were classified into 8 groups, and covaried by age. The average scores from high to low on vocational development were: able bodied, cystic fibrosis, congenital heart, orthopedic, facial burns, delinquent, developmental disability, learning or mental retardation. The German students made plans specifically tailored to training courses whereas the American students made more varied and open ended plans with higher aspirations for the future. All 7 disabled groups scored lower than the able bodied group, with only the cystic fibrosis group approaching normality. PMID- 2531125 TI - Cumulative irritant dermatitis and abnormal epidermal plasminogen activator activity: what connection? PMID- 2531126 TI - Papillon-Lefevre syndrome in four siblings treated with etretinate. A nine-year evaluation. AB - Four siblings with Papillon-Lefevre syndrome (3 boys and 1 girl), aged 8 to 12 at time of first diagnosis in 1978 are reported. These four patients represent the second largest sibship reported in the literature, and the only familial cases treated with etretinate for 6 years with an additional 3 1/2 year follow-up evaluation. No long-term side effects of etretinate were found in the children. All four patients are the product of a second cousin marriage; all demonstrate the B5 locus on HLA typing. PMID- 2531127 TI - Partial oxygen pressure determines the types of glycosaminoglycans produced by the cornea. PMID- 2531128 TI - Cutaneous innervation in man visualized with protein gene product 9.5 (PGP 9.5) antibodies. AB - Using antibodies to the neuronal cytoplasmic protein, protein gene product 9.5 (PGP 9.5) the cutaneous innervation in man was investigated. The distribution of PGP 9.5 immunoreactive nerve fibers was compared with the distribution of nerve fibers immunoreactive to neuron specific enolase, neurofilament proteins, calcitonin gene related peptide, vasoactive intestinal polypeptide and neuropeptide Y. PGP 9.5 immunoreactive nerve fibers were found in the epidermis, dermis, in Meissner's corpuscles, innervating Merkel cells, around blood vessels, sweat glands and hair follicles. Merkel cells were also PGP 9.5 positive. The labelled nerve fibers included sensory and autonomic fibers, visualizing the whole innervation of the human skin. The number of positive fibers and the intensity of the fluorescence was greater with PGP 9.5 antibodies than with any of the other markers included. Thus, PGP 9.5 antibodies may serve as a tool for investigations of cutaneous innervation, reinnervation and nerve regeneration in different clinical conditions. PMID- 2531130 TI - Anti-CD4 monoclonal antibody effects cellular hyporesponsiveness and prolongs renal allograft survival in the rat. AB - LEW strain rats received BN strain renal allografts and were treated with daily injections of 100 micrograms BWH-4, a new IgG2a mouse anti-rat CD4 monoclonal antibody, intravenously for 5 to 10 days. These animals had a median actuarial survival of 28 days. Control animals rejected their grafts and died of uremia between day 6 and 8 post transplant. Animals treated with BWH-4 did not suffer acute graft loss and had stable renal function throughout the follow-up period of 5 weeks. Peripheral blood, lymph node, and splenic lymphocytes showed 60-80% decrease in the CD4+ subset which normalized by 4 weeks after transplantation. There was depressed proliferative response of lymph node cells to alloantigen and mitogen which persisted up to 4 weeks after cessation of therapy. Treated animals produced anti-BN antibodies as well as antibodies to the infused BWH-4. There was no correlation, however, between these humoral responses and allograft function. We conclude that low-dose monotherapy with the BWH-4 anti-CD4 monoclonal antibody effects cellular hyporesponsiveness, prevents acute renal allograft rejection, and prolongs survival. PMID- 2531131 TI - The T-cell receptor V delta genes predominantly used by human peripheral gamma/delta+ T lymphocytes are not rearranged in CD3- natural killer cells. AB - We have analyzed, in 19 CD3- natural killer cell clones, the genomic organization of the T-cell receptor delta locus with two distinct V delta probes, V delta 1 and V delta 2. These two V delta genes code for surface proteins expressed in more than 90% of peripheral blood T-cell receptor gamma/delta+ lymphocytes, as shown by double color immunofluorescence analysis with anti-TCR delta 1, anti BB3, and anti-delta TCS1 monoclonal antibodies. The V delta 1 and V delta 2 genes were found to be in germline position in all these clones, which are distinct phenotypically and represent a variety of the corresponding peripheral natural killer cell populations. We also studied in these cloned cell lines the transcriptional activity of the T-cell receptor delta locus with a C delta probe: short transcripts (1.7 and 0.8 kb) were found exclusively. These experiments further suggest that CD3- natural killer peripheral cells are likely to constitute a unique lineage distinct from T lymphocytes. PMID- 2531129 TI - Ultracytochemical localization of the vacuolar marker enzymes alkaline phosphatase, adenosine triphosphatase, carboxypeptidase Y and aminopeptidase reveal new concept of vacuole biogenesis in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. AB - Logarithmic cultures of Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains LBG H 1022, FL-100, X 2180 1A and 1B were studied together with the mutants pep4-3, sec18-1 and sec7-1. The necessary ultrastructural observations showed that, as a rule, juvenile vacuoles were formed de novo from perinuclear endoplasmic reticulum cisternae (ER) packed and inflated with electron-dense (polyanionic) matrix material. This process was disturbed solely in the sec18-1 mutant under non-permissive conditions. The vacuolar marker enzymes adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) and alkaline phosphohydrolase (ALPase) were assayed by the ultracytochemical cerium precipitation technique. The neutral ATPase was active in vacuolar membranes and in the previously shown (coated) microglobules nearby. ALPase activity was detected in microglobules inside juvenile vacuoles, inside nucleus and in the cytoplasm as well as in the membrane vesicles and in the periplasm. The sites of vacuolar protease carboxypeptidase Y (CPY) activity were assayed using N-CBZ-L tyrosine-4-methoxy-2-naphthyl-amide (CBZ-Tyr-MNA) as substrate and sites of the amino-peptidase M activity using Leu-MNA as substrate. Hexazotized p-rosaniline served as a coupler for the primary reaction product of both the above proteases (MNA) and the resulting azo-dye was osmicated during postfixation. The CPY reaction product was found in both polar layers of vacuolar membranes (homologous to ER) and in ER membranes enclosing condensed lipoprotein bodies which were taken up by the vacuoles of late logarithmic yeast. Both before and after the uptake into the vacuoles the bodies contained the CPY reaction product in concentric layers or in cavities. Microglobules with CPY activity were also observed. Aminopeptidase was localized in microglobules inside the juvenile vacuoles. These findings combined with the previous cytochemical localizations of polyphosphates and X-prolyl-dipeptidyl (amino)peptidase in S. cerevisiae suggest the following cytologic mechanism for the biosynthetic protein transport: coated microglobules convey metabolites and enzymes either to the cell surface for secretion or enter the vacuoles in all phases of the cell cycle. The membrane vesicles represent an alternative secretory mechanism present in yeast cells only during budding. The homology of the ER with the vacuolar membranes and with the surface membranes of the lipoprotein condensates (bodies) indicates a cotranslational entry of the CPY into these membranes. The secondary transfer of a portion of CPY into vacuoles is probably mediated by the lipoprotein uptake process. PMID- 2531133 TI - Methods of stimulating acupuncture points for treatment of chronic back pain in horses. AB - Horses with chronic back pain of 2 to 108 months' duration were treated using acupuncture (n = 15), laser acupuncture (n = 15), or injection acupuncture (n = 15). Horses were treated once a week for 8 treatments (mean) with needle acupuncture, 11 treatments with laser acupuncture, or 9 treatments with injection acupuncture. After treatment, 37 horses had alleviation of clinical signs of pain and could train and compete: 13 horses treated with needle acupuncture; 11 horses treated with laser acupuncture; and 13 horses treated with injection acupuncture. Seemingly, the 3 types of acupuncture were equally useful for treating horses with chronic back pain. PMID- 2531132 TI - Mixed lymphocyte response-generated suppressor cell specificity in humans is major histocompatibility complex-restricted. AB - To formally test the hypothesis that allospecificity of the human mixed lymphocyte response-generated suppressor cells is restricted to the major histocompatibility complex, 18 primary mixed lymphocyte responses, using peripheral blood lymphocytes of 10 HLA-typed families, were used to generate suppressor effector cells. Responder lymphocytes shared one HLA haplotype with the stimulator cells. At day 10, the effector cells were tested for their ability to suppress proliferation of 55 test mixed lymphocyte responses consisting of naive autologous lymphocytes as responders and irradiated cells from individual family members as stimulators. Suppression was predicted when the test culture stimulators expressed the same HLA haplotype to which the suppressor cells were primed. There was statistically significant correlation between suppression and HLA haplotype sharing (p = 0.0143). In 6 out of 13 assays, however, we observed suppression that was not predicted on the basis of relevant HLA haplotype sharing. These stimulators shared only HLA-A2 with the priming haplotype. HLA antigen sharing was not seen in the 7 remaining, nonsuppressed cultures. We conclude that, within families, the effector function of in vitro generated suppressor cells is restricted by the major histocompatibility complex. PMID- 2531134 TI - TAN-999 and TAN-1030A, new indolocarbazole alkaloids with macrophage-activating properties. AB - Two new indolocarbazole alkaloids, TAN-999 and TAN-1030A, were isolated from culture broths of Nocardiopsis dassonvillei C-71425 and Streptomyces sp. C-71799, respectively. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of their reactions, spectroscopic analyses and in particular, comparison of spectral data with that of staurosporine. These metabolites induced spreading of a murine macrophage cell line, Mm 1. They also augmented the phagocytic activity, Fc gamma receptor expression and beta-glucuronidase activity of murine macrophage cell lines, Mm 1 and J774A.1. When proteose-peptone elicited peritoneal macrophages from mice were incubated with these metabolites for 2 days, the phagocytosis-dependent respiratory burst of these cells was enhanced. Similar enhancement was also observed when the peritoneal macrophages in mice were modulated by intraperitoneal administration of these metabolites. These results reveal that TAN-999 and TAN-1030A can activate macrophage functions in mice. PMID- 2531136 TI - Antitumor activity of pyrindamycins A and B. AB - Pyrindamycins A(1) and B(2) exhibited stronger cytotoxic activities than doxorubicin towards murine and human tumor cell lines and especially towards doxorubicin-resistant cells. Pyrindamycins A and B were also active in vivo against P388/ADR, a multidrug-resistant tumor cell line. Intracellular accumulation of pyrindamycins A and B in P388/ADR was the same as in P388. These antibiotics strongly inhibited DNA synthesis compared with RNA or protein synthesis. They showed significant therapeutic effects towards murine leukemia, but not to solid tumors. PMID- 2531135 TI - Dechloro teicoplanin antibiotics. AB - Mono- and didechlorinated derivatives of the antibiotic teicoplanin, its pseudoaglycones and aglycone, and of one amide and ester of deglucoteicoplanin were prepared under selective reductive conditions. The selectivity and rate of dehalogenation were studied and compared to those of vancomycin and deglucovancomycin. The influence of the chlorine substituents on the mechanism of action and antibacterial activity of teicoplanin antibiotics was also investigated. PMID- 2531137 TI - The time-course of furosemide-induced strial changes in guinea pigs after pretreatment with daltroban. AB - It was shown previously (Ernst et al., 1989) that pretreatment of guinea pigs with a thromboxane (TX) receptor antagonist attenuates the decline of the endocochlear potential (EP) induced by furosemide. The present paper is aimed at investigating a possible correlation between the electrophysiological data and ultrastructural changes of the stria vascularis by electron microscopy. The dosages of 40, 60, and 80 mg/kg furosemide were injected after the pretreatment with the TX receptor antagonist daltroban and compared to controls which were injected with furosemide only. It was found at all furosemide concentrations that the strial changes 10 min after injection were nearly unchanged against controls. 30 min after furosemide injection, the most pronounced changes were seen when pretreating the animals: a clear reduction of the marginal cell swelling and edema in general were observed at 40 and 60 mg/kg furosemide. The guinea pigs injected with 80 mg/kg furosemide after pretreatment displayed nearly the same changes as controls. PMID- 2531138 TI - Molecular cloning and expression in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Neurospora crassa of the invertase gene from Neurospora crassa. AB - A plasmid (named pCN2) carrying a 7.6 kb BamHI DNA insert was isolated from a Neurospora crassa genomic library raised in the yeast vector YRp7. Saccharomyces cerevisiae suco and N. crassa inv strains transformed with pNC2 were able to grow on sucrose-based media and expressed invertase activity. Saccharomyces cerevisiae suco (pNC2) expressed a product which immunoreacted with antibody raised against purified invertase from wild type N. crassa, although S. cerevisiae suc+ did not. The cloned DNA hybridized with a 7.6 kb DNA fragment from BamHI-restricted wild type N. crassa DNA. Plasmid pNC2 transformed N. crassa Inv- to Inv+ by integration either near to the endogenous inv locus (40% events) or at other genomic sites (60% events). It appears therefore that the cloned DNA piece encodes the N. crassa invertase enzyme. A 3.8 kb XhoI DNA fragment, derived from pNC2, inserted in YRp7, in both orientation, was able to express invertase activity in yeast, suggesting that it contains an intact invertase gene which is not expressed from a vector promoter. PMID- 2531139 TI - Limited atrial compensation to reduced early diastolic filling in hypertensive patients with advanced left ventricular hypertrophy: a Doppler echocardiographic study. AB - To assess atrial contribution to left ventricular (LV) filling in hypertension, we studied, using pulsed Doppler echocardiography, 22 hypertensive patients without apparent LV hypertrophy (LVH), 12 hypertensive patients with LVH, and 24 age-matched normal subjects. From mitral flow velocity waveform, we determined peak velocity of early diastolic filling flow (peak E), peak velocity of late diastolic filling flow (peak A), and the peak A/peak E ratio (peak A/peak E). Peak E decreased in hypertensives without apparent LVH and showed a further decrease in hypertensives with LVH compared with normal subjects (57 +/- 8 [mean +/- SD]; P less than 0.001, 46 +/- 7; P less than 0.0001, vs 65 +/- 10 cm/s). On the other hand, peak A/peak E increased in hypertensives without apparent LVH, and greatly increased in hypertensives with LVH (1.06 +/- 0.14; P less than 0.001, 1.40 +/- 0.29; P less than 0.0001, vs 0.79 +/- 0.21). However, increased peak A was not significantly different between the hypertensive groups (60 +/- 8 vs 64 +/- 8; NS, both; P less than 0.001 vs 50 +/- 10 cm/s for normal subjects). In hypertensives, we found no significant correlation between peak A and the wall thickness index (WTI, determined as mean LV wall thickness normalized by LV diastolic dimension), whereas peak E was significantly correlated with WTI (r = 0.65; P less than 0.001). Our findings indicate that atrial contraction can not fully compensate the decrease in early diastolic filling caused by advanced LVH. We conclude that atrial compensation for reduced early diastolic filling is limited in hypertensive patients with advanced left ventricular hypertrophy. PMID- 2531141 TI - Immunoglobulin E receptor cross-linking induces oscillations in intracellular free ionized calcium in individual tumor mast cells. AB - Fura-2 fluorescence in single rat basophilic leukemia cells was monitored to study the rise in intracellular free ionized calcium ([Ca2+]i) produced by aggregation of immunoglobulin E receptors. Repetitive transient increases in [Ca2+]i were induced by antigen stimulation and were measured using digital video imaging microscopy at high time resolution. The [Ca2+]i oscillations were not dependent upon changes in the membrane potential of the cells and were observed in cells stimulated with antigen either with or without extracellular Ca2+. Transient oscillations in [Ca2+]i were also observed when calcium influx was blocked with La3+. These results suggested that during antigen stimulation of cells under normal physiological conditions, release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores makes an important contribution to the initial increase in [Ca2+]i. Oscillations in [Ca2+]i are not induced by elevating [Ca2+]i with the calcium ionophore ionomycin. Mitochondrial calcium buffering is not required for [Ca2+]i oscillations to occur. The results show that rat basophilic leukemia cells have significant stores of calcium and that release of calcium from these stores can participate in both the initial rise and the oscillations in [Ca2+]i. PMID- 2531140 TI - Fluorescence energy transfer studies of purified erythrocyte Ca2+-ATPase. Ca2+ regulated activation by oligomerization. AB - Fluorescence resonance energy transfer has been used to study oligomerization of the purified erythrocyte Ca2+-ATPase. The energy transfer efficiency has been measured at different enzyme concentrations, from fluorescein 5'-isothiocyanate attached on one enzyme molecule to eosin 5-maleimide or tetramethylrhodamine 5 isothiocyanate attached on another enzyme molecule. The energy transfer efficiency showed a sigmoid dependence on enzyme concentration and was half maximal at 10-12 nM enzyme; this dependence on enzyme concentration closely resembled previously demonstrated dependence of Ca2+-ATPase activity and polarization of the fluorescein 5'-isothiocyanate enzyme (Kosk-Kosicka, D., and Bzdega, T. (1988) J. Biol. Chem. 263, 18184-18189). Thus, the three independent methods establish that enzyme concentration-dependent oligomerization is a mechanism of activation of the erythrocyte Ca2+-ATPase. Further energy transfer studies demonstrated that enzyme oligomerization required calcium. This calcium dependence was characterized by high affinity (half-maximal energy transfer at pCa 7.15) and cooperativity (Hill coefficient of 2.36), being very similar in both respects to the Ca2+ dependence of the Ca2+-ATPase activity. The data indicated that the oligomerization process produced a highly cooperative, Ca2+ regulated activation of the enzyme at physiologically relevant Ca2+ concentrations. These studies show that the Ca2+-ATPase can be fully activated by a Ca2+-dependent oligomerization mechanism, which is independent of the previously described activation by calmodulin. We propose two pathways for the activation of the Ca2+-ATPase, taking into account the interdependencies between the Ca2+, calmodulin, and enzyme concentrations. PMID- 2531142 TI - High purity preparations of higher plant vacuolar H+-ATPase reveal additional subunits. Revised subunit composition. AB - A fast protein liquid chromatography procedure for purification of the V-type H+ ATPase from higher plant vacuolar membrane to yield near-homogeneous enzyme with a specific activity of 20-25 mumol/mg.min is described. When precautions are taken to ensure the quantitative recovery of protein before sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, the preparation is found to be constituted of seven major polypeptides of 100, 67, 55, 52, 44, 32, and 16 kDa, respectively, and two minor components of 42 and 29 kDa. The 52-, 44-, and 32-kDa polypeptides do not cross-react with antisera raised to the 67- and 55-kDa subunits of the enzyme, and two independent sample preparation procedures yield the same apparent subunit composition. The additional polypeptides are not breakdown products or aggregates of the previously identified subunits of the ATPase. The ATPase of tonoplast vesicles is subject to MgATP-dependent cold inactivation, and the conditions for inactivation are identical to those for the bovine chromaffin granule H+-ATPase (Moriyama, Y., and Nelson, N. (1989) J. Biol. Chem. 264, 3577-3582). Cold inactivation is accompanied by the detachment of five major polypeptides of 67, 55, 52, 44, and 32 kDa from the membrane, and all five components co-migrate with the corresponding polypeptides of the purified ATPase upon sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The 100- and 16 kDa polypeptides of the ATPase are not removed from the membrane during cold inactivation, but the latter can be purified to homogeneity by chloroform:methanol extraction of the fast protein liquid chromatography-purified enzyme. It is concluded that the tonoplast H+-ATPase is constituted of 6-7 major polypeptides organized into a peripheral sector comprising the 67-, 55-, 52-, 44 , and 32-kDa components and an integral sector consisting of the 100- and 16-kDa polypeptides. The V-type H+-ATPase from animal endomembranes and higher plant vacuolar membranes therefore have remarkably similar subunit compositions and gross topographies. PMID- 2531143 TI - Characterization of bacteriophage P22 tailspike mutant proteins with altered endorhamnosidase and capsid assembly activities. AB - The tailspike protein of Salmonella typhimurium phage P22 is a multifunctional homotrimer which is involved in the terminal reaction of phage assembly, the adsorption of the phage to susceptible cells, and the hydrolysis of the Salmonella O-antigen during the first steps of phage infection. The proteins made from 15 mutant tailspike structural genes carried on high level expression plasmids have been analyzed with respect to their in vivo stability, quaternary structure, capsid assembly activity, and enzymatic activity. Nine mutants synthesize tailspike proteins which fail to accumulate to any appreciable level in vivo, and thus these proteins are probably degraded. Four other altered proteins accumulate in vivo as soluble monomers. The remaining two altered proteins accumulate in vivo as stable trimers. Each of these two proteins is defective for at least one of the known functions of the tailspike protein. One is defective in the capsid assembly reaction and shows an unusual quaternary structural defect but is normal with respect to the enzymatic hydrolysis of O antigen. The other is defective in the enzymatic hydrolysis of O-antigen but is normal with respect to its capsid assembly activity and quaternary structure. The known sequence changes which give rise to these altered proteins and those of previously identified mutants allow the description of possible functional and structural "domains" of this multifunctional protein. PMID- 2531144 TI - Activation of Ca2+ uptake and inhibition of reversal of the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ pump by aromatic compounds. AB - The effects of aromatic compounds in sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase were investigated. The solubility of the drugs in various organic solvents and water was measured. The ratio between the solubility in organic solvents and that in water (distribution coefficient) was used as an index of their hydrophobicity. The order found was triphenylphosphine greater than diphenylamine greater than 3 nitrophenol greater than 4-nitrophenol greater than 1,3-dihydroxybenzene. The effects observed on the Ca2+-ATPase were correlated with hydrophobicity of the drugs, activation and inhibition being obtained at a lower concentration the greater the distribution coefficient of the drug into organic solvent. In leaky vesicles, the effects of each compound on the ATPase activity varied depending on the Ca2+ concentration in the medium: it inhibited in the presence of 5 microM Ca2+ and activated when the Ca2+ concentration was raised to 2 mM. In intact vesicles, 3- and 4-nitrophenol, diphenylamine, and triphenylphosphine enhanced both the rate of ATP hydrolysis and the amount of Ca2+ accumulated by the vesicles. These four drugs inhibited Ca2+ uptake when ITP was used as substrate. 1,3-Dihydroxybenzene enhanced the amount of Ca2+ accumulated by the vesicles regardless of whether ATP or ITP was the substrate. All five compounds inhibited the phosphorylation of the enzyme by Pi, the efflux of Ca2+, and the synthesis of ATP measured during the reversal of the Ca2+ pump. The results indicate that the hydrophobic character of various organic compounds determines their access to sensitive domains of the membrane-bound calcium pump. Additional specific effects are then produced, depending on the structure of each compound. PMID- 2531145 TI - T-cell antigen receptor (TCR)-alpha/beta heterodimer formation is a prerequisite for association of CD3-zeta 2 into functionally competent TCR.CD3 complexes. AB - In order to study the relationship between assembly, surface expression, and signal transduction of the alpha/beta T-cell antigen receptor-CD3 complex (TCR.CD3), a series of T-cell mutants with a partial block in assembly of the complex was generated. By chemical mutagenesis, we produced somatic cell variants of the human T-leukemia cell line, HPB-ALL, which expressed low amounts of TCR.CD3 complexes on their surface. RNA and protein analyses demonstrated that most variants synthesized normal amounts of the individual members of the complex, i.e. TCR-alpha, TCR-beta, CD3-gamma, -delta, -epsilon, and -zeta. In these variants, less than 10% of the TCR.CD3 complexes inside the cell contained the CD3-zeta 2 homodimer due to an intrinsic deficiency in the formation of the TCR-alpha/beta heterodimer. The low level of assembly of CD3-zeta 2 into the TCR.CD3 complex and an additional decrease in the rate of export of the TCR.CD3 complex from the endoplasmic reticulum explained the low level of expression of alpha/beta receptors on the surface of these mutants. Only cells with the complete set of subunits of the TCR.CD3 complex on their surface were capable of transducing CD3-mediated signals. The results presented in this paper indicate that TCR-alpha/beta heterodimer formation is an obligatory requirement for assemblage of CD3-zeta 2 into a functionally competent TCR.CD3 complex. PMID- 2531146 TI - 3-(2'-[18F]fluoroethyl)spiperone: in vivo biochemical and kinetic characterization in rodents, nonhuman primates, and humans. AB - 3-(2'-[18F]fluoroethyl)spiperone (FESP), a recently developed dopamine D2 receptor binding radiopharmaceutical, was used for dynamic characterization of dopamine-receptor binding in Macaca nemestrina monkeys and humans with positron emission tomography (PET). FESP in vitro binding properties to the dopamine receptor (IC50 = 1.5 nM) are similar to those of spiperone. Serial PET scans in monkeys after intravenous bolus injection of FESP revealed specific radioactivity accumulation in striatum (rich in dopamine D2-receptors), whereas radioactivity concentration declined after 20 min in frontal cortex (serotonin receptors) and more rapidly in cerebellum (nonspecific binding). Specific dopamine D2-receptor binding was saturated with increasing concentrations of radioligand (specific activity range: 1-10,000 Ci/mmol), was stereospecifically blocked with (+)butaclamol (0.5 mg/kg), and showed only partial displacement with spiperone (200 micrograms/kg, i.v. administration 90 min after FESP injection). From PET experiments with FESP in humans, it is possible to visualize accumulation of radioactivity in striatum in a manner similar to that observed in monkeys and, ex vivo, in rodents (adult male Sprague-Dawley rats). Biochemical analyses in rat brain revealed that the activity (approximately 90%) in striatum was unmodified FESP up to 4 h after injection. On the other hand, FESP was metabolized peripherally (rat greater than monkey greater than human), with only 11% of plasma radioactivity remaining as intact FESP in rodents and 54% in humans after 2 h. Based on these interspecies scaling pharmacokinetic data, it is unequivocal that FESP peripheral metabolites do not significantly contribute to the accumulated radioactivity in striatal tissue. Therefore, it is concluded that FESP is suitable for the quantitative estimation of dopamine D2-receptor sites using PET. PMID- 2531147 TI - Models for in vivo kinetic interactions of dopamine D2-neuroreceptors and 3-(2' [18F]fluoroethyl)spiperone examined with positron emission tomography. AB - The in vivo tracer kinetics of 3-(2'-[18F]fluoroethyl)spiperone (FESP) in the caudate/striatum and cerebellar regions of the human and monkey brain were studied with positron emission tomography (PET). The minimal model configuration that can describe the kinetics was determined statistically. Three two compartment model configurations were found to be suitable for describing the kinetics in caudate/striatum and cerebellum: (1) a nonlinear model (five parameters) applicable to studies using nontracer (partially saturating) quantities of FESP in monkey striatum, (2) a linear four-parameter model applicable to the caudate/striatal and cerebellar kinetics in human and monkey studies with tracer quantities of FESP, and (3) a linear three-parameter model derived from the four-parameter model by assuming irreversible binding applicable to tracer studies of the human caudate. In the human studies, when the caudate kinetics (n = 4) were fit by model 2 (with four parameters), the value of the in vivo ligand dissociation constant kd was found to be 0.0015 +/- 0.0032/min. The three-parameter model (model 3) was found to fit the data equally well: this model is equivalent to model 2 with kd set to zero. In the monkey studies, it was found that for short (90 min) studies using tracer quantities of FESP, model 2 fit the striatal kinetics better than model 3. The parameters estimated using model 2 (four parameters) were in better agreement with those estimated by the nonlinear model (model 1) than those estimated using model 3 (three parameters). The use of a graphical approach gives estimates of the plasma-tissue fractional transport rate constant K1 and the net uptake constant K3 comparable to estimates using model 3 for both human and monkey studies. PMID- 2531149 TI - Quantification of dopamine D2 receptors by irreversible tracer binding in the living human brain: the model-dependent correction of metabolites. PMID- 2531148 TI - A double-injection technique for in vivo measurement of dopamine D2-receptor density in monkeys with 3-(2'-[18F]fluoroethyl)spiperone and dynamic positron emission tomography. AB - Dopamine D2-receptor density in striatum of monkey was measured with 3-(2' [18F]fluoroethyl)spiperone (FESP) and dynamic positron emission tomography (PET), using a double-injection technique. A first bolus of high specific activity (SA) FESP (5 mCi; approximately equal to 1 Ci/mumol) was injected i.v.; 90 min later, a second bolus of lower SA FESP (5 mCi; approximately equal to 0.04 Ci/mumol) was injected. A dynamic PET study was performed to measure the kinetics of FESP in striatum over 180 min, and the metabolite-corrected concentration of FESP in plasma as a function of time was obtained from arterial blood samples. A nonlinear compartmental model that took into account the saturability of the receptor binding was used to describe the kinetics of FESP in striatum. Model parameters were estimated by regression with a constraint based on information about the equilibrium dissociation constant of the ligand-receptor binding. Dopamine D2-receptor density in striatum was estimated to be 25.9 +/- 12.7 pmol/g in seven Macaca nemestrina monkeys. The method does not require the use of cerebellum as a reference tissue region and an estimate of dopamine D2-receptor density can be obtained from a single study. PMID- 2531150 TI - [Difficulties of parietal repair after pubectomy]. PMID- 2531152 TI - High-performance liquid chromatographic determination of teicoplanin in plasma: comparison with a microbiological assay. PMID- 2531151 TI - Sensitive analysis of the mycotoxin zearalenone and its metabolites in biological fluids by high-performance liquid chromatography alpha. AB - A method is described for the analysis of zearalenone and its metabolites, alpha- and beta-zearalenol, in small volumes (0.5-2.0 ml) of biological fluids including milk, blood, plasma, urine and bile, using high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection. Isolation of the toxins from biological fluids was achieved using a series of pH-controlled solvent extractions. Detection limits for zearalenone and alpha-zearalenol were 1 ng/ml, and for beta-zearalenol ca. 5 ng/ml, both at a signal-to-noise ratio of 3. In bile, however, the detection was ca. five times less sensitive owing to interfering substances. Recoveries at low ng/ml concentrations were highest from urine (87-94%) and plasma (85-93%), slightly lower from whole blood (78-88%) and milk (75-84%), and lowest from bile (66-77%). PMID- 2531153 TI - Comparison between the effects of nafarelin and danazol on serum lipids and lipoproteins in patients with endometriosis. AB - The effects of nafarelin (400 micrograms daily; 12 patients) and danazol (600 mg daily; 6 patients) on serum lipoproteins, high density lipoprotein (HDL) subfractions, and apoproteins-A-I and -A-II were studied. Lipoproteins were fractionated by sequential flotation from samples taken before and after 1, 3, and 6 months of treatment as well as 3 months after cessation of medication. Serum concentrations of estradiol, total and free testosterone, androstenedione, and sex hormone-binding globulin were also determined. On nafarelin treatment, serum total HDL and HDL2 cholesterol concentrations increased slightly, but total and low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels were unchanged. There was no effect on apoproteins-A-I and -A-II or on total and very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) triglyceride concentrations. During treatment with danazol, the serum levels of total HDL and HDL2 cholesterol showed profound decrease, as did all the components of HDL2, including apoprotein-A-I. Concomitantly, the total mass of LDL was increased by 25%, accounted for by parallel rises in all of the components of LDL. Total and VLDL triglyceride concentrations decreased inconsistently. Both treatments resulted in hypoestrogenism of the same degree. The steep drop in the serum sex hormone-binding globulin level reflected the androgenic effect of danazol, whereas during nafarelin treatment, serum concentrations of testosterone and androstenedione were reduced. This difference in androgenic milieu may well explain the differences in the lipid profiles. We conclude that, regarding lipid effects, nafarelin is a more favorable treatment for endometriosis than is danazol. PMID- 2531154 TI - Successful production of intrathyroidal human T cell hybridomas: evidence for intact helper T cell function in Graves' disease. AB - We have developed a series of human intrathyroidal T-T cell hybridomas and evaluated their phenotypic characteristics and lymphokine secretions in order to further understand the role of the T cell in Graves' disease. Mitogen-stimulated T cell blasts were generated from intrathyroidal lymphocyte preparations and fused with a hypoxanthine-, aminopterin-, and thymidine-sensitive variant of the Molt 4 human leukemia T cell line. The resulting intrathyroidal T-T cell hybridomas and T-T cell hybridomas obtained from normal peripheral blood mitogen stimulated T cell blasts were expanded and tested for their biological function. None of the generated T cell hybridomas exhibited antigen-specific IL-2 secretion when stimulated with autologous thyrocytes, although 60% of the hybridomas expressed CD3 antigen and the T cell receptor alpha/beta heterodimer. However, 9 intrathyroidal and 11 peripheral blood T cell hybridomas secreted a factor(s) that significantly enhanced immunoglobulin G secretion in vitro (P less than 0.005, by Student-Newman-Keuls test; mean +/- SEM, 338 +/- 60% increase). In summary, we have successfully used a technique that allows the construction of T T cell hybridomas derived from intrathyroidal T cell cultures. The data demonstrated that a predominance of helper factor-secreting T cells were available for fusion within the Graves' thyroid gland. Such observations are further evidence for intact T cell help within the thyroid gland of patients with Graves' disease. PMID- 2531155 TI - Serum adrenal steroid concentrations in premature infants. AB - To evaluate serum adrenal steroid concentrations in preterm infants, 17 hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP), 17-hydroxypregnenolone, 11-deoxycortisol, cortisol, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), DHEA sulfate, androstenedione, 18 hydroxycorticosterone, and aldosterone values were determined in 9 sick and 13 healthy premature infants. Serum steroid concentrations were compared to previously reported data from healthy full-term infants. 17-OHP, 11 deoxycortisol, and aldosterone values were higher in sick preterm infants than in healthy preterm infants. Compared to healthy full-term infants, the premature infants-had significantly higher 17-hydroxypregnenolone, 17-OHP, and DHEA sulfate concentrations. Cortisol values were not different between the sick and healthy preterm infants and were similar to full-term values. Aldosterone values were also similar between the premature and the full-term infants. The findings of elevated steroid precursors in preterm infants and low cortisol levels in stressed sick preterm infants may indicate a relative immaturity of adrenal enzyme activity and inadequate adrenal reserve for stress. PMID- 2531156 TI - Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate levels are not suppressible by glucocorticoids before adrenarche. AB - We measured dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) levels in children before and after high dose prednisone therapy. In older children (postadrenarchal), there was a 70% decrease in DHEA-S levels after 1 week. However, even after a month of therapy, DHEA-S was detectable in serum. In contrast, in younger (preadrenarchal) children, the low initial DHEA-S levels were not decreased by prednisone therapy. These findings suggest that there are two distinct regulatory pathways leading to DHEA-S, one of which is independent of ACTH. PMID- 2531157 TI - Nontypeable bacteriophage patterns of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus involved in a hospital outbreak. AB - Of 93 strains of Staphylococcus aureus isolated from inpatient wards of Ismailia General Hospital, 48 (51%) were proven to be methicillin resistant (MR). Of these MR S. aureus strains, 44 were isolated from patients and 4 were isolated from healthy carriers, who were newly arrived interns working in the same wards. Bacteriophage patterns of MR S. aureus were identified by using routine test dilution (RTD) and 100-fold dilutions (100 RTD) of phages. Of these 48 strains, 37 (75%) (33 from patients and 4 from interns) were nontypeable when using RTD and 100 RTD of phages. Of the other 11 strains, 8 were nontypeable by RTD of phages, but 5 of them had the phage pattern D11/1136 when tested by 100 RTD. Three strains had the phage pattern 3A/3C/55/71, and three strains had different phage patterns, 29/81, 96, and 95/D11. The finding of colonization with virulent MR S. aureus strains in interns working on the wards in which these patients were located suggested that new strategies for control of MR S. aureus nosocomial infections must be considered and evaluated. PMID- 2531159 TI - Herpes zoster ophthalmicus, contralateral hemiplegia, and recurrent ocular toxoplasmosis in a patient with acquired immune deficiency syndrome-related complex. AB - A 42-year-old man presented with herpes zoster ophthalmicus on the right side. He was found to have acquired immune deficiency syndrome-related complex. Two weeks later he developed toxoplasmic retinochoroiditis in the left eye. He also presented later with left hemiplegia, which was probably caused by herpes zoster arteritis. Nine months after the retinal lesion resolved he developed another area of toxoplasmic retinochoroiditis adjacent to the first lesion. Herpes zoster may be the first presentation of acquired immune deficiency syndrome-related complex in a young healthy individual. Ophthalmologists are encountering patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome who may have multiple organisms as the cause for their ocular infections and this might pose a treatment dilemma. The combination of herpes zoster ophthalmicus and ocular toxoplasmosis in this patient makes this case unusual. PMID- 2531158 TI - Reversible Horner's syndrome and Lyme disease. AB - Neurologic manifestations of Lyme disease are common, often debilitating, and potentially treatable. We document a case of Borrelia infection of the nervous system manifesting as a reversible Horner's syndrome. The search for Lyme disease should be part of the evaluation of an isolated central or preganglionic Horner's syndrome or any unexplained pupillary abnormality. PMID- 2531160 TI - Schilder's myelinoclastic diffuse sclerosis. AB - We report here a case of Schilder's myelinoclastic diffuse sclerosis in a 14-year old girl with sudden bilateral visual loss. Computed tomographic scan showed two large symmetrical lesions in the occipital lobes and a smaller hypodense area in the frontal lobe. Cerebrospinal fluid examination revealed increased immunoglobulin G fraction with the presence of oligoclonal bands. Ultrastructural study of a biopsy specimen disclosed a demyelinating disorder with no cytoplasmic inclusions. Steroid treatment was followed by a dramatic response, with almost complete visual recovery and shrinkage of the lesions. PMID- 2531161 TI - Palinopsia as a presenting manifestation of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. AB - A 70-year-old man developed a syndrome of progressive nondominant parietal and occipital dysfunction including palinopsia and a visual field defect. Despite the marked focality of his clinical findings, radiologic studies were normal. Myoclonus and ataxia began 6 weeks after onset of his illness at which time brain biopsy confirmed Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD). This is the first reported case of palinopsia due to CJD. PMID- 2531162 TI - Dolichoectasia and cranial nerve palsies. A case report. AB - An elderly man with glaucoma and acute onset of left-sided cranial nerve III, V, and VII palsies was found to have associated marked intracranial artery dolichoectasia. Dolichoectasia (arterial elongation and distension) affects the intracranial arteries, producing various neurological and ophthalmological findings. The patients are usually men who are more than 40 years old and have a history of hypertension. Diagnosis is made by characteristic radiologic findings. In patients with neurologic symptoms and signs suggesting a space-occupying mass, intracranial dolichoectasia should be considered. PMID- 2531163 TI - Bilateral intranuclear ophthalmoplegia associated with fourth ventricular dermoid tumor. AB - We report an unusual case of bilateral internuclear ophthalmoplegia occurring in association with fourth ventricular dermoid tumor and we review the current literature. PMID- 2531164 TI - Optokinetic nystagmus. A clinical review. AB - Although optokinetic nystagmus was described as a clinical phenomenon over 150 years ago, its neurophysiologic mechanism has provoked ongoing controversies and enthusiasm for its clinical application has been sporadic and tepid. In the past 15 years, improvements in clinical and experimental oculography, neuroanatomy, and single unit neuron recordings in alert animals have helped to resolve the neural circuitry of optokinetic nystagmus and to better define its clinical usefulness. The writer reviews the history of the experimental study of optokinetic nystagmus and the clinical circumstances in which this office test may be of particular value. PMID- 2531165 TI - Mydriasis in giant-cell arteritis. AB - A previously healthy 60-year-old woman developed headache, cervical pain, bilateral mydriasis (right greater than left), and bilateral conjunctival injection as the sole manifestations of acute giant-cell arteritis. PMID- 2531166 TI - Bilateral central retinal artery occlusion in occult temporal arteritis. AB - A rare case of bilateral central retinal artery occlusion due to occult temporal arteritis is reported. We stress temporal artery biopsy in every patient with central retinal artery occlusion in old age. PMID- 2531167 TI - Pseudodrusen of the optic disc. Papilledema simulating buried drusen of the optic nerve head. AB - The distinction between true papilledema and pseudopapilledema rests on characteristics of the optic disc when examined ophthalmoscopically. Buried disc drusen frequently simulate papilledema and often result in misdirected diagnostic maneuvers in search of a cause for presumed intracranial hypertension. When an elevated optic disc exhibits an irregular, "lumpy, bumpy" border, a diagnosis of buried drusen of the optic nerve is usually made. We report a case with papilledema secondary to increased intracranial pressure in which the margins of the swollen optic disc presented this lumpy, bumpy border characteristic of buried drusen. The lumpy character of the disc border disappeared with resolution of the papilledema, and ultrasonography demonstrated the absence of any buried drusen. Other characteristics of papilledema, including extension of the disc swelling into the peripapillary nerve fiber layer, telangiectasia of the superficial vessels of the optic disc, and obscuration of the retinal vessels as they crossed the margins of the optic disc, provided strong evidence of true papilledema and remain the most reliable findings allowing a distinction between true papilledema and pseudopapilledema. PMID- 2531168 TI - Optic neuropathy in Behcet's disease. AB - Optic neuropathy in Behcet's disease is rare, despite wide ocular and neurological involvement. Progressive atrophy of the optic disc and severe visual loss is not uncommon in Behcet's disease; however, visual loss due to acute optic neuropathy is less well known. We report three cases of optic neuropathy in Behcet's disease. The clinical picture was variable in our patients, presenting either as acute retrobulbar optic neuritis or anterior optic neuropathy. It is interesting to note that although the neurological picture resembles multiple sclerosis, there seems to be less predilection to optic nerve involvement in Behcet's disease. PMID- 2531169 TI - Blepharospasm associated with olivopontocerebellar atrophy. AB - We report two cases of cranial dystonia (blepharospasm) associated with olivopontocerebellar atrophy (OPCA). The pathophysiology of blepharospasm appears to involve an increased excitability of the interneurons of the blink and corneal reflexes. It is hypothesized that blepharospasm associated with OPCA might be due to rostral brainstem lesions disrupting central dopaminergic and cholinergic pathways, resulting in disinhibition of brainstem reflexes or denervation supersensitivity of the facial nuclear complex. PMID- 2531170 TI - Isolated, pupil-sparing third nerve palsy as initial manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus. AB - A 29-year-old woman had an isolated, pupil-sparing third cranial nerve palsy. Serologic and CSF abnormalities and the subsequent course were consistent with systemic lupus erythematosus. Corticosteroid therapy resulted in improvement of ocular palsy within 4 weeks. The pathogenesis of cranial neuropathy in systemic lupus erythematosus and the unique presentation in this patient are discussed. PMID- 2531172 TI - Steroid acne. AB - Steroid acne has become more common since the advent of organ transplant surgery and oncologic treatment regimens. Although its precise pathogenesis is still uncertain, the accelerated chronologic sequence of infundibular spongiosis, hyperkeratosis, microcomedo formation, and rupture is crucial to the development of the papules and papulopustules. PMID- 2531171 TI - Detection of T cells in paraffin wax embedded tissue using antibodies against a peptide sequence from the CD3 antigen. AB - Rabbit polyclonal antibodies were raised against a proline rich, peptide sequence, comprising 13 amino acids, in the cytoplasmic domain of the CD3 epsilon chain. Immunoprecipitation experiments showed that this antibody preparation recognised the CD3 antigen on human T lymphoblasts. The antibody stained normal T cells strongly in tissue sections which had been fixed in formalin or Bouin's solution and embedded in paraffin wax. Its reactivity with T cell lymphoma, when evaluated on a series of 96 previously phenotyped cases, closely agreed with the results obtained on cryostat sections. These results indicate that the specific detection of T cells in routinely processed tissue biopsy specimens is now technically feasible on a wide scale in diagnostic laboratories using CD3 peptide antibodies, and they also suggest that in future the use of anti-peptide antibodies may detect other lineage specific antigenic markers in paraffin wax sections. PMID- 2531173 TI - Nonpigmenting fixed drug reaction to piroxicam. PMID- 2531174 TI - HLA-DR positivity in discoid lupus erythematosus. PMID- 2531175 TI - 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin-induced porphyria cutanea tarda among pediatric patients. PMID- 2531176 TI - Estimation of the velocity of the salivary film at some different locations in the mouth. AB - Previously, we studied the clearance rates of KCl from agarose gels positioned at different locations in the mouth, and showed that the rates were much slower than when clearance was into a well-stirred solution. We designed the present in vitro study to test the effect on KCl clearance of the velocity of a 0.1-mm-thick film of water flowing over an agarose gel of the same diameter and composition as those used in vivo. The thickness of the salivary film overlying dental plaque has been estimated to be about 0.1 mm, and we assumed that when clearance rates in vitro matched those found in vivo, velocities of the fluid film (in vitro) and the salivary film (in vivo) must be equal. On this basis, it was calculated in the present experiments that when salivary flow was unstimulated, the velocity of the salivary film at the level of the teeth varied between about 0.8 mm/min (upper-anterior buccal region) and 8.0 mm/min (lower-anterior lingual region). When salivary flow was stimulated, this was estimated to increase the velocity of the salivary film from 2 to 40 times, depending on the location in the mouth. It is postulated that the slow movement of the salivary film when flow is unstimulated allows for accumulation of diffusants from dental plaque, which reduces the concentration gradient for diffusion from plaque and prolongs the clearance time of such metabolic products as acid. PMID- 2531177 TI - An analysis of factors influencing diffusion from dental plaque into a moving film of saliva and the implications for caries. AB - Recent studies have indicated that saliva in the mouth is present as a film only about 0.1 mm thick, and that this film moves at different rates (about 0.8 to 7.6 mm/min) in different regions of the oral cavity. The clearance rates of KCl, as a model diffusant, from agarose gels at different sites in the mouth have also been found to vary markedly, and it has been proposed that these variations are related to differences in the velocity of the salivary film. A computer model has been developed for prediction of clearance half-times for substances diffusing from plaque of variable dimensions into a film of fluid 0.1 mm thick, moving at different velocities. The results show that over the range of velocities calculated to occur in the mouth, the clearance half-times are directly related to the length of plaque over which the fluid passes, and inversely related to the salivary film velocity. The predictions of the model are in good agreement with experimental results from a physical model. Tests were made of the predicted effect of salivary film velocity on the shape of the pH curve initiated by exposure of plaque to a saturated sucrose solution, followed by normal salivary clearance. With a low salivary film velocity, the fall in pH was greater and more prolonged.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2531178 TI - Left ventricular hypertrophy, cardiac diseases and hypertension: recent experiences. PMID- 2531179 TI - Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of saphenous vein graft stenosis: long-term follow-up. AB - Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty was used to treat 101 patients with saphenous vein bypass graft stenosis at a mean of 50.1 months (range 2 to 196) after coronary artery bypass surgery. The patients presented between March 1981 and April 1987. A total of 107 saphenous vein grafts were dilated at 117 sites. The primary success rate was 91.8%. The incidence of cardiac complications was 7.1%. There were no cardiac complications in 53 patients with grafts implanted less than 36 months before angioplasty (Group 1). The 48 patients with grafts implanted for greater than 36 months (Group 2) had a 12.5% incidence rate of myocardial infarction, a 4% incidence rate of emergent bypass surgery and a 4% incidence rate of death for an overall cardiac complication rate of 14.9% (p less than 0.01). Follow-up was obtained at a mean of 16.8 +/- 13.9 months (range 1 to 54) in 87 patients (97% of successful cases). Repeat coronary angiography was performed in 49 patients and revealed restenosis in 30 patients (61.2%), with no difference in recurrence rates for proximal, mid or distal graft sites. Clinical recurrence (defined as recurrence of symptoms, myocardial infarction, repeat angioplasty, surgery or death) was 33.1% for Group 1 patients and 64.1% for Group 2 patients (p less than 0.01). The complication and recurrence rates of saphenous vein graft angiography are significantly higher when performed for late (greater than 36 months) vein graft failure. All therapeutic options should be carefully examined before proceeding with angioplasty for saphenous vein graft stenosis in this type of patient. PMID- 2531180 TI - Immunoreactive beta-endorphin levels in cerebrospinal fluid of children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia: relationship with glucocorticoid therapy and neurological complications. AB - Neurological disorders, such as seizures, are not infrequently associated with anti-leukemic therapy. It has been hypothesized that a disrupted peptidergic transmission between neurons could be the cellular basis of the neurological dysfunction. Since endogenous opioids have been recently found to alter neuronal function and possess anticonvulsant properties, the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) immunoreactive beta-endorphin levels in children with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) during chemotherapy and cranial irradiation have been studied. Twenty-seven children, 2 at low, 20 at medium and 5 with high risk ALL, undergoing prophylactic treatment for meningeal leukemia, entered the study. Sequential lumbar punctures with introduction of MTX combined with oral prednisone therapy were performed; each lumbar puncture sample was collected and assayed for immunoreactive beta-endorphin. All the patients studied showed a biphasic profile of the peptide with the minimum levels reached during the induction (days 14-28) and the maximum levels detected at the end of the intensification chemotherapy (days 49-55). In the 3 groups the beta-endorphin decrease corresponded to the period of prednisone therapy; the increase was concomitant with the suspension of oral glucocorticoids. 3 patients showed tonic clonic seizures which coincided with the lowest cerebrospinal fluid beta endorphin levels and, in the follow-up, 13 out of 27 patients displayed EEG abnormalities. From these findings a relationship between cerebrospinal fluid beta-endorphin concentrations and neuronal excitability in patients with ALL can be suggested. It is also evidenced that oral glucocorticoid therapy has profound inhibitory effects on central beta-endorphin levels. PMID- 2531181 TI - Anterior intramuscular transposition of the ulnar nerve. AB - Anterior intramuscular transposition is a seldom considered alternative to other surgical methods in management of cubital tunnel syndrome. Placement of the ulnar nerve anteriorly within the flexor-pronator mass removes it from a vulnerable subcutaneous position without extensive dissection. Of 52 sequential procedures, 45 extremities in 40 persons were available for follow-up (mean, 28 months after operation). By use of a 12-point scale of objective and subjective parameters, there were 87% good or excellent results; 4% were graded fair, and 9% were graded poor. Age, duration of symptoms, and conduction velocity were not of prognostic value. Although 69% of patients had other compressive neuropathy or tendinitis, this did not adversely affect results. Those with changes seen by electromyogram or work-related compensable injury had a poorer prognosis. PMID- 2531182 TI - Intraoperative assessment of median nerve blood flow during carpal tunnel release with laser Doppler flowmetry. AB - Eleven consecutive median nerves in patients with clinical carpal tunnel syndrome were examined prospectively with laser Doppler flowmetry. All procedures were done without a tourniquet with the patient under local or general anesthesia. Multiple measurements of median nerve blood flow were obtained during carpal tunnel release. Flow characteristics proximal to the transverse carpal ligament did not change after release of the ligament. Beneath the transverse carpal ligament, initial flow was random in 10 of 11 nerves. Within 1 minute after release of the transverse carpal ligament, flow became pulsatile and synchronized with the patient's pulse in nine nerves. Although preliminary, these data suggest that in carpal tunnel syndrome the segment of median nerve beneath the carpal ligament is relatively ischemic and this ischemia may be a factor in the development of symptomatic median nerve entrapment. The rapid return of a pulsatile signal within the nerve after release is positively correlated with relief or improvement of median nerve dysesthesias. PMID- 2531183 TI - Co-localization of a kallikrein-like serine protease (arginine esterase A) and atrial natriuretic peptide in rat atrium. AB - Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) is stored in atrial granules primarily as a larger molecular weight precursor (pro-ANP), which is believed to be rapidly converted to an active peptide of 28 amino acids during or shortly after secretion. A tissue kallikrein-like serine protease has been suggested as a potential processing enzyme. In the present immunocytochemical study, using specific monoclonal antibodies, we found that esterase A, a kallikrein-like serine protease, was demonstrable in rat atrial myocytes and in ventricular myocytes, and was capable of cleaving pro-ANP to yield a low molecular weight product. Using colloidal gold immunocytochemistry at the electron microscopic level, we have found esterase A in atrial myocytes, both in granules and in another subcellular site that corresponds to sarcoplasmic reticulum. Double-label electron microscopic immunocytochemical results indicated that esterase A can co localize with ANP in granules of atrial myocytes. PMID- 2531184 TI - Influence of the angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor cilazapril, the beta blocker propranolol and their combination on haemodynamics in hypertension. AB - This study compared the antihypertensive effects and the haemodynamic mechanisms of action of an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, a beta-blocker and the combination of both in patients with mild to severe hypertension. After a placebo run-in period of 2 weeks, patients were treated for 3 weeks with each of the following: cilazapril (2.5 mg daily) and propranolol (120 mg daily), in a randomized sequence, and thereafter a combination of the two drugs. Blood pressure, cardiac output (measured by Doppler ultrasound) and total peripheral resistance (TPR) in a sitting position at rest were determined. One patient out of 18 was withdrawn in the cilazapril phase. Both monotherapies yielded significant and similar reductions of diastolic blood pressure (average -10 mmHg). Cardiac output and TPR showed opposite effects. Cardiac output was lower with the beta-blocker than with the ACE inhibitor (3.4 versus 4.5 l.min-1), while TPR behaved conversely (2646 versus 2005 dyne.s.cm-5). The combination of both drugs lowered diastolic blood pressure significantly more than the monotherapies (average -20 mmHg); the haemodynamic effects of the monotherapies were attenuated by the combination (cardiac output = 3.7 l.min-1; TPR = 2170 dyne.s.cm-5). A sitting diastolic blood pressure of less than or equal to 90 mmHg could be achieved in six out of 17 patients with propranolol alone, in eight out of 18 with cilazapril alone, and in 14 out of 17 with the coadministration of both drugs. The combination was better tolerated subjectively than the beta-blocker alone.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2531186 TI - MHC class II A alpha and E alpha molecules determine the clonal deletion of V beta 6+ T cells. Studies with recombinant and transgenic mice. AB - Interactions between MHC class II genes and minor lymphocyte stimulating (Mls) associated products are responsible for clonally deleting self-reactive T cells in mice. Here we demonstrate the role of the intact I-A and I-E molecules as well as the individual A alpha and E alpha chains in the deletion of cells bearing the V beta 6 TCR. DBA/1 (H-2q, Mls-1a) mice were crossed with various inbred congenic, recombinant, and transgenic strains and the F1's were screened for V beta 6 expression. All I-E+ strains were fully permissive in deleting V beta 6+ T cells. I-E- strains expressing I-A b,f,s,k,p permitted only partial deletion, while I-Aq strains showed no deletion. Recombinant I-Aq and I-Af strains which expressed E kappa alpha chain in the absence of E beta chain showed a decrease in V beta 6+ T cells as compared to their H-2q and H-2f counterparts. Furthermore, transgenic mice expressing E kappa alpha Aq beta gene in an H-2q haplotype (E kappa alpha Aq beta?) gave similar results to that of the recombinants in deleting V beta 6 T-cells. The role of the 1-A molecule was also shown by the partial deletion of V beta 6+ T cells in H-2q mice expressing transgenic I-Ak molecules. These results demonstrate that the E alpha chain is important in the deletion of V beta 6 T-cells in Mls-1a mice. The role of A alpha chain is also implied by the permissiveness of E kappa alpha Aq beta but not Aq alpha Aq beta molecules in the deletion of V beta 6+ T cells. PMID- 2531185 TI - IgE receptor on human eosinophils (FcERII). Comparison with B cell CD23 and association with an adhesion molecule. AB - IgE FcR (FcERII) on human eosinophils was characterized and compared with FcERII present on B cells (CD23). Two mAb, BB10 (anti-eosinophil FcERII) and 135 (anti CD23), bound to the major component of FcERII at 45,000 to 50,000 Mr, both on purified hypodense eosinophils and on a B cell line (WIL-2WT). The specific ligand, human myeloma IgE, was able to bind to the molecules immunoprecipitated by BB10. A cross-reactivity between BB10 and a mAb anti-Leishmania gp63, which is a "fibronectin (Fn)-like" molecule, containing the L-arginine-L-glycyl-L-aspartyl (RGD) cell attachment domain indicated the presence of such a sequence in the common structure present on eosinophil and B cell FcERII. The synthetic tetrapeptide RGDS as well as its inverted sequence (SDGR) reduced the binding of BB10 and anti-Fn mAb to eosinophils and B cells. Flow microfluorometry analysis revealed a variable binding of BB10 and anti-Fn mAb to eosinophils purified from different patients, results compatible with recent findings on the inducibility of FcERIIb. The significant inhibition of IgE-dependent cytotoxicity against parasite targets by preincubation of eosinophils with BB10, anti-Fn and anti-CD23 mAb, with anti-RGDS polyclonal antibodies or with the SDGR peptide suggested the requirement of this cell adhesion sequence for the function of low affinity FcERII. The presence of such a sequence in the C-terminal domain of B cell FcERII raised the possibility of its role in B cell adhesion or B cell growth. PMID- 2531187 TI - Gene mapping of the three subunits of the high affinity FcR for IgE to mouse chromosomes 1 and 19. AB - The high affinity receptor for IgE (Fc epsilon RI) is a tetrameric structure consisting of a single IgE-binding alpha subunit, a single beta subunit, and two disulfide-linked gamma subunits. The alpha subunit of Fc epsilon RI and most Fc receptors are homologous members of the Ig superfamily. By contrast, the beta and gamma subunits from Fc epsilon RI are not homologous to the Ig superfamily. The gamma-chains do share a region of high homology with the zeta-chain of the TCR. No homology has been found to date for beta with any published sequence. Here, we report that a single copy gene encodes Fc epsilon RI beta and that the locus for Fc epsilon RI beta is found on mouse chromosome 19, genetically linked to the Ly 1 (Ly-12) locus and in a region that also contains Ly-10 and Ly-44 (CD20). Homology comparisons among these molecules reveal limited regions of homology between Fc epsilon RI beta and Ly-44 (CD20) as well as other striking similarities: both molecules have four putative transmembrane segments and a probably topology where both amino- and carboxytermini protrude into the cytoplasm. In addition, we show that a single gene for FC epsilon RI gamma is found at the distal end of mouse chromosome 1, clustered in a region where Fc epsilon RI alpha has also been linked to Fc gamma RII. At least one of the two forms of Fc gamma RII has recently been shown to contain gamma subunits identical to the gamma subunits of Fc epsilon RI. The close association of the genes for Fc epsilon RI alpha, FC gamma RII, and their shared gamma subunits raises interesting implications regarding coordinate regulation of gene expression. PMID- 2531188 TI - Adenovirus E1A products activate the Ig k-chain enhancer in fibroblasts. A possible involvement of the NF-kB binding site. AB - Proteins encoded by the early region 1A (E1A) regulate transcription of viral and cellular genes. The mechanism of this trans-regulation remains unclear but it is of considerable interest as an example of transcription regulation through cellular intermediates. We have therefore studied the effect of E1A products on the activity of the k-L chain gene enhancer. In our previous studies we have found that the k-chain enhancer is activated by E1A products in fibroblasts. Using in vivo competition experiments we found that the E1A regulatory effect involves trans-acting factors that can be titrated out by the k-chain enhancer sequences. Our transfection experiments suggest that the k3 enhancer fragment, encompassing the NF-kB binding site, is one of the sites through which the adenovirus E1A products exert their transactivation effect. The level of the nuclear factors that bind to the NF-kB binding site increases in fibroblasts that constitutively express E1A products. Understanding the mechanisms through which E1A regulates transcription should help to illuminate cellular mechanisms of gene control in normal and transformed cells. PMID- 2531189 TI - [New findings of H+-ATPases]. PMID- 2531190 TI - [Isolation of calphobindin-II and its mechanism of anticoagulant activity]. AB - In addition to calphobindin-I (a placental coagulation inhibitor), another anticoagulant protein (calphobindin-II) was isolated from the EDTA extract of human placenta. The purified protein had a molecular weight of 68,000 daltons according to sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis under both reduced and non-reduced conditions. This protein prolonged prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time and recalcification time, but did not affect thrombin time. This substance also inhibited both factor X activation by a complex of [factor VII-tissue factor-Ca2+] and factor II activation by a complex of [factor Xa-phospholipid-Ca2+]. This protein was a stronger anticoagulant than calphobindin-I. PMID- 2531191 TI - [In vitro studies of 5-FU sensitivity on uterine cervical cancer cell lines- comparison between squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma]. AB - In order to improve the postoperative survival rate of patients with cervical cancer, we have treated them with adjuvant chemotherapy (oral Tegafur) and proved this treatment to be useful. However, the prognosis of cervical adenocarcinoma cases has not been improved yet. In this study, 5-FU sensitivity, morphological changes and DNA metabolism of cultured cervical cancer cells were examined using OMC-1 and OMC-4 cell line originating from cervical squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma, respectively. The EC 50 (Effective Concentration for 50% Cell Kill) of 5-FU on OMC-1 and OMC-4 cells after 96 hours of incubation with 5-FU was 0.13 micrograms/ml and 9.1 micrograms/ml, respectively. The morphological changes were more prominent in OMC-1 cells than in OMC-4 cells after 192 hours of incubation with 0.1 micrograms/ml of 5-FU. The incorporation of 3H-deoxyuridine into the DNA was inhibited more significantly in OMC-1 cells than in OMC-4 cells even at a low concentration of 5-FU. The intracellular FdUMP and thymidylate synthetase (TS) inhibition rate of OMC-1 and OMC-4 after 96 hours of incubation with 0.1 microgram/ml of 5-FU was 4.7 pmol/g and less than 2.6 pmol/g, 58.7% and 60.0%, respectively. These results suggest that 5-FU sensitivity of cervical adenocarcinoma cell line (OMC-4) is lower than that of cervical squamous carcinoma cell line (OMC-1) and it may owe much not to the TS inhibition rate but to the intracellular FdUMP. PMID- 2531192 TI - Capacity of unprimed CD4+ and CD8+ T cells expressing V beta 11 receptors to respond to I-E alloantigens in vivo. AB - Self tolerance induction in the thymus is known to delete T cells expressing certain V beta TCR molecules. In particular, V beta 17a+ and V beta 11+ T cells are selectively deleted in mice expressing H-2 I-E molecules. Although this finding implies that V beta 17a+ and V beta 11+ T cells have specificity for self I-E molecules, studies with V beta 11+ hybridomas prepared from mature lymphocytes taken from I-E- mice have shown that the vast majority of these hybridomas do not display I-E alloreactivity, at least in vitro. To examine whether V beta 11+ T cells are capable of reacting to I-E antigens in vivo, normal unprimed T cells from I-E- B10.A(4R) mice were transferred to irradiated I E+ B10.A(2R) hosts and harvested from thoracic duct lymph of the recipients at various intervals. The donor T cells recovered in early lymph collections showed no reactivity to the I-E antigens of the host in vitro, presumably as a reflection of selective sequestration of the host-reactive cells in the lymphoid organs. Significantly, the disappearance of functional host-reactive cells from TDL was paralleled by a 90-95% reduction of V beta 11+ CD4+ cells. Blast cells were rare in early lymph collections but accounted for nearly all of the lymph borne cells by day 3 after transfer. These blast cell populations contained a surprisingly high proportion of V beta 11+ cells, i.e., up to 25% in some experiments. Interestingly, the enrichment for V beta 11+ cells in the blast populations applied to CD8+ cells as well as to CD4+ cells. Collectively, the data suggest that in marked contrast to the failure of V beta 11+ cells to respond to I-E antigens in vitro, a high proportion of normal resting V beta 11+ cells are capable of reacting to I-E alloantigens in vivo. PMID- 2531193 TI - Identification and characterization of new murine T cell receptor beta chain variable region (V beta) genes. AB - By screening previously isolated genomic clones spanning the mouse TCR V beta locus with V beta-specific oligonucleotides, we have isolated one new functional V beta gene and six V beta pseudogenes. Because this method of identifying new genes does not depend on expression levels, we conclude that most, if not all, V beta genes in the mouse have been identified. The newly identified pseudogenes increase the frequency of mouse TCR V beta pseudogenes to 28%, a frequency similar to that estimated for mouse Ig VH pseudogenes (24). Three of the newly discovered pseudogenes are clustered in a region around another pseudogene (V beta 17b). The extensive DNA diversity, as reflected in both the nucleotide sequence and the RFLP, indicates that this genomic region is a possible hotspot of recombination. The new functional gene, V beta 19a, is expressed at very low levels, which explains why it has not been isolated earlier. V beta 19 shows expression patterns that correlate with the previously described Va beta and Vb beta haplotypes. PMID- 2531194 TI - Two types of mouse T helper cell. IV. Th2 clones secrete a factor that inhibits cytokine production by Th1 clones. AB - A cytokine synthesis inhibitory factor (CSIF) is secreted by Th2 clones in response to Con A or antigen stimulation, but is absent in supernatants from Con A-induced Th1 clones. CSIF can inhibit the production of IL-2, IL-3, lymphotoxin (LT)/TNF, IFN-gamma, and granulocyte-macrophage CSF (GM-CSF) by Th1 cells responding to antigen and APC, but Th2 cytokine synthesis is not significantly affected. Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) also inhibits IFN-gamma production, although less effectively than CSIF, whereas IL-2 and IL-4 partially antagonize the activity of CSIF. CSIF inhibition of cytokine synthesis is not complete, since early cytokine synthesis (before 8 h) is not significantly affected, whereas later synthesis is strongly inhibited. In the presence of CSIF, IFN-gamma mRNA levels are reduced slightly at 8, and strongly at 12 h after stimulation. Inhibition of cytokine expression by CSIF is not due to a general reduction in Th1 cell viability, since actin mRNA levels were not reduced, and proliferation of antigen-stimulated cells in response to IL-2, was unaffected. Biochemical characterization, mAbs, and recombinant or purified cytokines showed that CSIF is distinct from IL-1, IL-2, IL-3, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-7, IFN-gamma, GM-CSF, TGF-beta, TNF, LT, and P40. The potential role of CSIF in crossregulation of Th1 and Th2 responses is discussed. PMID- 2531197 TI - Self-perpetuating development of encoding biases. AB - The process of encoding new information involves the imposition of preexisting interpretive categories on newly encountered stimuli, even if the categories do not match perfectly those stimuli. We hypothesized that such encoding of stimuli as supportive of preexisting encoding dispositions may become a source of a perceiver's subjective experiences that support these dispositions. Through this nonconsciously operating mechanism, encoding rules may gradually develop in a self-perpetuating manner, even in the absence of any objectively supportive evidence. Results demonstrated this self-perpetuating process in three studies involving different stimulus materials and experimental tasks (matrix-scanning paradigm and two "intuitive judgment" tasks). The self-perpetuating development of encoding biases is discussed as one of the elementary mechanisms involved in the development of interpretive categories and other individually differentiated cognitive dispositions. PMID- 2531195 TI - Identification of an endogenous membrane anchor-cleaving enzyme for group A streptococcal M protein. Its implication for the attachment of surface proteins in gram-positive bacteria. AB - How streptococcal M protein or other surface proteins of gram-positive bacteria are anchored to the cell is poorly understood. Previously, we reported that M protein released after cell wall removal with a muralytic enzyme lacked the COOH terminal hydrophobic amino acids and charged tail predicted from DNA sequence. An endogenous membrane anchor-cleaving enzyme has now been identified with the ability to release M protein from isolated streptococcal protoplasts. At pH 5.5 in the presence of 30% raffinose, the streptococcal cell wall may be removed with a muralytic enzyme without releasing M protein from the resulting protoplasts indicating that the M molecule is attached through the bacterial cytoplasmic membrane. Release of M molecules occurs when the M protein-charged protoplasts are placed in raffinose buffer at pH 7.4. Although Zn2+, Cd2+, Ca2+, PHMB, and pHMPS inhibit the activity of the releasing enzyme, the blocking activity of Zn2+, Cd2+, and Ca2+ are reversible while PHMB and pHMPS are irreversible. PHMB treated protoplasts are unable to release M protein at pH 7.4. However, M protein is liberated from these protoplasts when mixed with those prepared from M- streptococci serving as an enzyme source. The supernatant from M- protoplasts is unable to release M protein from PHMB-inactivated M+ protoplasts, confirming that the anchor-cleaving enzyme is membrane bound. Thus, the M protein releasing activity appears to be the result of a thiol-dependent anchor-cleaving enzyme. Streptococcal membranes treated with sodium carbonate and Triton X-114 still retain the M protein verifying that it is an integral membrane molecule. Evidence also is presented indicating significant sequence similarity between M protein and certain GPI-anchored proteins in the region responsible for protein anchoring. PMID- 2531196 TI - Lymphokine regulation of CD45R expression on human T cell clones. AB - Whether the expression of higher molecular weight isoforms of the T-200 complex represents different lineages of T cells and/or a sequential stage of the differential pathway of T cells has been unclear. Understanding T cell expression of higher molecular weight isoforms of the T-200 complex (CD45R) may be important because of their association with regulation of immune responses. By direct single cell cloning, we observed a number of long-term T cell clones that expressed CD45RA (2H4). CD45RA expression could be further regulated by ionomycin or the cytokines IL-1 and IL-6, but not IL-2, IL-4, or IFN-gamma. These results indicate that CD45RA expression may define T cell lineages of activated T cells partially controlled by the cytokines IL-1 and IL-6. Further, these results may associate regulatory actions of IL-1 and IL-6 with their ability to increase CD45RA expression in subpopulations of human T cells. PMID- 2531198 TI - Perceptual and conceptual factors in distortions in memory for graphs and maps. AB - We propose that representations of visual stimuli are a consequence of both perceptual and conceptual factors that may be revealed in systematic errors in memory. Three experiments demonstrated increased (horizontal or vertical) symmetry in perception and memory of nearly symmetric curves in graphs and rivers in maps. Next, a conceptual factor, an accompanying description biasing toward symmetry or asymmetry, also distorted memory in the expected direction for the symmetric descriptions. In the two final experiments, we investigated conceptual factors in selection of a frame of reference. Subjects remembered lines in graphs, but not in maps, as closer to the imaginary 45 degrees line. Combined with earlier research, this suggests that the reference frame for map lines is the canonical axes and for graph lines, the imaginary 45 degrees line. PMID- 2531199 TI - Internally represented forces may be cognitively penetrable: comment on Freyd, Pantzer, and Cheng (1988). AB - Freyd, Pantzer, and Cheng (1988) provided considerable evidence for the proposition that people can represent underlying forces within static scenes. However, they explicitly assumed that their observed memory shifts were the result of perceptually modular information processing. For several reasons, I suggest herein that this assumption of cognitive impenetrability is a dubious one. The assumption is challenged by recent empirical findings, some theoretical considerations, and calculations that show that the observed effects are minute when compared with those expected by means of physical forces. Three explanations for the evidence are proposed, including the alternative hypothesis that although people do represent static physical forces, these representations can be almost completely overridden by the conscious intention to remember an object's precise location. PMID- 2531200 TI - Mental extrapolation and cognitive penetrability: reply to Ranney and proposals for evaluative criteria. AB - We propose three criteria for establishing that mentally extrapolated motions are impenetrable with respect to one's knowledge, beliefs, or expectations about the nature of corresponding physical motions, and we review recent findings on mental extrapolation and representational momentum that appear to meet these criteria. We also respond to some arguments recently proposed by Ranney (1989) and Hubbard and Bharucha (1988) that representational momentum is cognitively penetrable. We conclude that mental extrapolations are governed to at least some extent by the inherent properties of the underlying internal mechanisms. PMID- 2531201 TI - Emergent features, attention, and perceptual glue in visual form perception. AB - We examined the grouping of line segments into unitary shapes and attempted to identify procedures to diagnose when such grouping is taking place. Previous research has indicated that attentional measures may diagnose grouping: With grouped parts, selective attention to individual parts is difficult and divided attention across parts is easy, whereas with ungrouped parts selective attention is easy and divided attention is difficult. This result suggests that grouping operates via a perceptual glue binding parts into wholes that are difficult or impossible to divide. Other studies have suggested in addition that grouped parts produce emergent features, possibly including symmetry and closure, that make possible configural superiority effects, where whole shapes are more discriminable than are their distinguishing contours shown in isolation. The 13 experiments reported here indicate that perceptual glue is not needed to explain known findings about grouping, a claim that agrees with conclusions by other investigators using other criteria. Rather, emergent features alone may suffice to explain grouping, provided that reliable and accurate diagnostic criteria can be identified. It is shown that the diagnostics now available are not fully adequate for this purpose. Surprisingly, it appears that some prime candidates for emergent features--namely, closure and line terminators--may not be of central importance to form perception. PMID- 2531202 TI - Illusory conjunctions inside and outside the focus of attention. AB - This article addresses 2 questions that arise from the finding that visual scenes are first parsed into visual features: (a) the accumulation of location information about objects during their recognition and (b) the mechanism for the binding of the visual features. The first 2 experiments demonstrated that when 2 colored letters were presented outside the initial focus of attention, illusory conjunctions between the color of one letter and the shape of the other were formed only if the letters were less than 1 degree apart. Separation greater than 2 degrees resulted in fewer conjunction errors than expected by chance. Experiments 3 and 4 showed that inside the spread of attention, illusory conjunctions between the 2 letters can occur regardless of the distance between them. In addition, these experiments demonstrated that the span of attention can expand or shrink like a spotlight. The results suggest that features inside the focus of attention are integrated by an expandable focal attention mechanism that conjoins all features that appear inside its focus. Visual features outside the focus of attention may be registered with coarse location information prior to their integration. Alternatively, a quick and imprecise shift of attention to the periphery may lead to illusory conjunctions among adjacent stimuli. PMID- 2531203 TI - Conjunctive search for one and two identical targets. AB - The assumptions of feature integration theory as a blind, serial, self terminating search (SSTS) mechanism are extended to displays containing 2 identical targets. The SSTS predicts no differences in negative-response displays, which require an exhaustive search of the display. Quantitative predictions are confirmed for the positive responses, but not for the negatives, suggesting that the SSTS model is incorrect. Two possible explanations for the results in the negative conditions, differential search rates and early quitting in the negatives, are rejected. It is suggested that using any self-terminating search mechanism will lead to difficulty in interpreting the results, including accounts for which the search is parallel over small groups of items. A resource limited parallel model, which is based on the diffusion model of Ratcliff (1978), appears to fit the data well. PMID- 2531204 TI - Saccade preparation inhibits reorienting to recently attended locations. AB - We measured manual reaction time in normal human subjects to confirm that an eccentric visual signal has a biphasic effect on covert attention and eye movements. First, it summons attention and biases a saccade toward the signal; a subsequent inhibition of return then slows responses to signals at that location. A temporal hemifield dominance for inhibition of return was shown; this finding converges with observations in neurologic patients to suggest that it is mediated by midbrain pathways. Endogenous orienting of attention, from a central arrow cue, did not activate inhibition of return, whereas endogenous saccade preparation did so as effectively as an exogenous signal, even when no saccade was made. Inhibition of return is activated by midbrain oculomotor pathways and may function as a location "tagging" mechanism to optimize efficiency of visual search. PMID- 2531205 TI - Categorization of disoriented faces in the cerebral hemispheres of normal and commissurotomized subjects. AB - We examined the capacity of the cerebral hemispheres to process faces that deviate from canonical perspective. In Experiment 1, normal Ss performed a gender categorization of faces presented at varying angular orientations in the left visual field (LVF) or right visual field (RVF). Orientation affected processing speed, more so in the RVF than in the LVF. The function relating reaction times to disorientation of the faces was approximately monotonic and reflected the increased difficulty in extracting relevant configurational information as the faces were rotated from canonical perspective. In Experiment 2, 3 commissurotomized Ss performed the same task. They responded above chance in the 2 visual fields, and the pattern of their results was similar to that obtained with the normal Ss, but the effect of disorientation was considerably more pronounced. It is suggested that the right hemisphere contribution becomes more critical the further the visual pattern departs from conventional view. Issues regarding the specification of processes correcting for disorientation and comparison of normal and commissurotomized Ss are discussed. PMID- 2531207 TI - Evidence for two types of spatial representations: hemispheric specialization for categorical and coordinate relations. AB - Analyses of human object recognition abilities led to the hypothesis that 2 kinds of spatial relation representations are used in human vision. Evidence for the distinction between abstract categorical spatial relation representations and specific coordinate spatial relation representations was provided in 4 experiments. These results indicate that Ss make categorical judgments--on/off, left/right, and above/below--faster when stimuli are initially presented to the left cerebral hemisphere, whereas they make evaluations of distance--in relation to 2 mm, 3 mm, or 1 in. (2.54 cm)--faster when stimuli are initially presented to the right cerebral hemisphere. In addition, there was evidence that categorical representations developed with practice. PMID- 2531206 TI - Interhemispheric interaction when both hemispheres have access to the same stimulus information. AB - Right-handed Ss identified consonant-vowel-consonant (CVC) nonsense syllables presented tachistoscopically. The CVC on each trial was presented to the left visual field-right hemisphere (LVF-RH), to the right visual field-left hemisphere (RVF-LH), or the same CVC was presented to both visual fields (bilateral presentation). When recognition was incorrect, the pattern of errors was qualitatively different on LVF-RH and RVF-LH trials, suggesting that each cerebral hemisphere has its own preferred mode of processing the CVC stimuli. The qualitative pattern of errors on bilateral trials was identical to that obtained on LVF-RH trials. The bilateral results are described well by a model that assumes the mode of processing characteristic of the RH dominates on bilateral trials but is applied to both the LVF-RH and RVF-LH stimuli. PMID- 2531208 TI - Articulatory-rate context effects in phoneme identification. AB - Three experiments demonstrated that the pattern of changes in articulatory rate in a precursor phrase can affect the perception of voicing in a syllable-initial prestress velar stop consonant. Fast and slow versions of a 10-word precursor phrase were recorded, and sections from each version were combined to produce several precursors with different patterns of change in articulatory rate. Listeners judged the identity of a target syllable, selected from a 7-member /gi/ ki/ voice-onset-time (VOT) continuum, that followed each precursor phrase after a variable brief pause. The major results were: (a) articulatory-rate effects were not restricted to the target syllable's immediate context; (b) rate effects depended on the pattern of rate changes in the precursor and not the amount of fast or slow speech or the proximity of fast or slow speech to the target syllable: and (c) shortening of the pause (or closure) duration led to a shortening of VOT boundaries rather than a lengthening as previously found in this phonetic context. Results are explained in terms of the role of dynamic temporal expectancies in determining the response to temporal information in speech, and implications for theories of extrinsic vs. intrinsic timing are discussed. PMID- 2531209 TI - Perceiving the end: effects of tonal relationships on melodic completion. AB - Two experiments examined listeners' sensitivity to the structural markers of melodic completion. In Experiment 1, both musicians and nonmusicians were asked to rate the ending of folk melodies for their degree of "completeness" and "tonal appropriateness." Results showed that melodies ending with the conventional leading tone-to-tonic progression were rated the most complete and tonally appropriate to the underlying key, more so than melodies ending with the submediant-to-tonic or the tonic-to-dominant progressions. Conversely, melodies ending on the leading tone seemed the most incomplete and tonally inappropriate. In Experiment 2, the perceptual salience of certain pitch functions was enhanced significantly by the pattern of rhythmic accentuation within a melody's context and the presence of the rare tritone interval. The results illustrate an interactive influence of pitch and temporal variables on musical perception and thereby highlight the need to incorporate dynamic pattern factors into internal representations of tonality. PMID- 2531210 TI - Visual misalignment in arc and chevron figures. AB - Five experiments investigated an apparent misalignment effect in 90 degrees arc figures. Preliminary observations showed that the effect occurs also in chevron figures, in an afterimage of the arc figure, and haptically in arc- and chevron shaped objects. The experiments showed that the effect is greater with 3 radial lines than with 2, absent without them, and present in a figure consisting of only 3 radial lines. The effect with arc figures was consistently greater than that with chevron figures, a difference found not to be due to an apex marking the midpoint of the latter, and it was of intermediate size in figures with 1 arc boundary and 1 chevron boundary. The misalignment was also greater in narrow, elongated figures. The issues singled out for discussion are the effect of context on the misalignment effect with 3 radial lines, a possible explanation in terms of perceptual compromise, the difference in the effect between arcs and chevrons, and the relationship between this illusion and the Morinaga illusion. PMID- 2531211 TI - Visual gap and offset discrimination and its relation to categorical identification in brief line-element displays. AB - Visual processing was investigated in judgments of relative line position. Stimulus continua were generated by bisecting a straight line and displacing the segments. Experiment 1 measured discrimination of pairs of longitudinally displaced segments at equal steps along the continuum. At long (2 s) durations discrimination fell smoothly, but at short (100 ms) durations it was sharp peaked. In Experiment 2 the short-duration stimuli were labeled with subsets of the labels no gap, just a gap, and more than just a gap. Theoretical discrimination performances were computed and the one based on no gap and just a gap closely fitted observed performance. Experiments 3 and 4 were similar to 1 and 2, with lateral replacing longitudinal displacement. Similar "categorical" performance was obtained. It was concluded that there are discrete mechanisms for early detection of relative line position and that 2 labels can be used to characterize performance in each direction. PMID- 2531212 TI - Two operations for "ratios" and "differences" of distances on the mental map. AB - Ss judged "ratios of distances" and "differences of distances" between pairs of U.S. cities. Results fit the theory that Ss used two comparison processes as instructed. A ratio scale of distances between cities was constructed from the 2 rank orders. From this scale, an interval scale of the city locations on an east west continuum was derived. This scale agrees with the subtractive model fit to "ratios" and "differences" of easterliness and westerliness, and it also agrees with multidimensional scaling of judged distances between cities. These findings are consistent with the theory that Ss use subtraction when instructed to judge either "ratios" or "differences," but that they can use both ratio and difference operations when the stimuli (in this case, distances) constitute a ratio scale on the subjective continuum. PMID- 2531213 TI - Ratings of kinetic depth in multidot displays. AB - Subjects saw kinetic depth displays whose shape (sphere or cylinder) was defined by luminous dots distributed randomly on the surface or in the volume of the object. Subjects rated perceived 3-D depth, rigidity, and coherence. Despite individual differences, all 3 ratings increased with the number of dots. Dots in the volume yielded ratings equal to or greater than surface dots. Each rating varied with 3 of 4 factors (shape, distribution, numerosity, and perspective), but the ratings either between trials or between conditions were often uncorrelated. Object shape affected rigidity but not depth ratings. Veridically perceived polar displays had slightly lower rigidity but higher depth ratings than parallel projection displays. (Reversed polar displays were always grossly nonrigid.) The interaction of ratings and stimulus parameters requires theories and experiments in which different KDE ratings are not treated interchangeably. PMID- 2531214 TI - Kinetic depth effect and identification of shape. AB - We introduce an objective shape-identification task for measuring the kinetic depth effect (KDE). A rigidly rotating surface consisting of hills and valleys on an otherwise flat ground was defined by 300 randomly positioned dots. On each trial, 1 of 53 shapes was presented; the observer's task was to identify the shape and its overall direction of rotation. Identification accuracy was an objective measure, with a low guessing base rate of the observer's perceptual ability to extract 3D structure from 2D motion via KDE. (1) Objective accuracy data were consistent with previously obtained subjective rating judgments of depth and coherence. (2) Along with motion cues, rotating real 3D dot-defined shapes inevitably produced a cue of changing dot density. By shortening dot lifetimes to control dot density, we showed that changing density was neither necessary nor sufficient to account for accuracy; motion alone sufficed. (3) Our shape task was solvable with motion cues from the 6 most relevant locations. We extracted the dots from these locations and used them in a simplified 2D direction-labeling motion task with 6 perceptually flat flow fields. Subjects' performance in the 2D and 3D tasks was equivalent, indicating that the information processing capacity of KDE is not unique. (4) Our proposed structure from-motion algorithm for the shape task first finds relative minima and maxima of local velocity and then assigns 3D depths proportional to velocity. PMID- 2531215 TI - Muscarinic receptor activation stimulates B-50/GAP43 phosphorylation in isolated nerve growth cones. AB - A characteristic feature of neurite formation is high expression of the phosphoprotein B-50/GAP43. Previous studies with growth cone membranes have indicated that this neuron-specific protein kinase C substrate may be involved in transmembrane signal transduction at the growth cone. We monitored the degree of phosphorylation of B-50 by quantitative B-50 immunoprecipitation from intact nerve growth cones, isolated from 5-day-old rat brain and prelabeled with 32P orthophosphate. B-50 phosphorylation in nerve growth cones is stimulated by 4 beta-phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate (PDB) and 1,2-dioctanoylglycerol (DOG) in a concentration-dependent manner, but not by 4 alpha-phorbol 12,13-didecanoate (4 alpha-PDD). These results confirm that B-50 is a substrate of PKC in intact growth cones. Depolarization induced by 30 mM K+ produces a transient increase in B-50 phosphorylation, which is maximal after 15 sec and declines to basal level within 5 min. This rise in B-50 phosphorylation can be partially blocked by atropine (10(-3)-10(-4) M), suggesting the involvement of muscarinic receptors. Indeed, the cholinergic receptor agonist carbachol enhances B-50 phosphorylation in a concentration-dependent manner (50% at 10(-3) M). Since the effect of carbachol (10(-3) M) can be blocked by atropine (10(-7) M), we conclude that this increase in B-50 phosphorylation is mediated through activation of the muscarinic receptors on the growth cones. The carbachol-induced stimulation is further increased by concurrent K+-depolarization. The effects of carbachol and depolarization are additive. To our knowledge, this is the first report showing receptor-mediated effects on the PKC substrate B-50 in growth cones. Our data support the hypothesis that phosphorylation of B-50 by PKC is involved in signal transduction in nerve growth cones. PMID- 2531216 TI - B-50/GAP43 is localized at the cytoplasmic side of the plasma membrane in developing and adult rat pyramidal tract. AB - The neuron-specific phosphoprotein B-50/GAP43 has been implicated in axonal outgrowth, since high levels of B-50/GAP43 are found in growth cones and during development of the nervous system. In adult brain, the B-50 levels are decreased. B-50 is primarily found in axons and presynaptic terminals. It is phosphorylated by protein kinase C, and this process has been implicated in the modulation of membrane signal transduction. During the outgrowth of the pyramidal tract, high levels of B-50 have been reported, whereas a low amount of B-50 persists into the adult stage. By immunoelectron microscopy, using immunogold labeling on cryosections and pre-embedding peroxidase labeling, we examined the distribution of B-50 in the pyramidal tract at the third cervical segment in developing 2-d old and adult 90-d-old rats. B-50 immunoreactivity was found in axons and growth cones of the outgrowing tract. In the adult pyramidal tract, both unmyelinated and myelinated axons contained B-50 immunoreactivity. The immunogold label was predominantly located at the plasma membrane. Since the peroxidase reaction product was observed exclusively intracellularly, we conclude that the B-50 immunoreactivity is predominantly located at the cytoplasmic side of the plasma membrane of axons and growth cones. The high immunoreactivity in growth cones and axons of the outgrowing pyramidal tract further supports the hypothesis that B-50 plays a role in neurite outgrowth. The presence of B-50 in the adult pyramidal tract cannot merely be attributed to transport to the synapse. Therefore, it is suggested that B-50 plays, in addition, a local, growth-associated role in the adult tract. PMID- 2531217 TI - Vasopressin receptors of the vasopressor (V1) type in the nucleus of the solitary tract of the rat mediate direct neuronal excitation. AB - The existence of vasopressin-sensitive neurons in the nucleus of the solitary tract of the rat and the presence in this brain area of vasopressin binding sites were investigated using extracellular single-unit recordings from brain-stem slices and light microscopic autoradiography. About 45% of the recorded neurons responded to vasopressin at 5-2000 nM by a reversible, concentration-dependent increase in firing rate. The action of vasopressin was direct, was suppressed by a vasopressor antagonist, and was mimicked by a vasopressor agonist. Oxytocin was 10-100 times less efficient than vasopressin and a specific antidiuretic agonist was without effect. Using light microscopic autoradiography and 3H-arginine vasopressin as a ligand, high-affinity vasopressin binding sites were found distributed over the whole rostrocaudal extent of the nucleus of the solitary tract. Binding was displaced by unlabeled vasopressor agonist but not by unlabeled antidiuretic agonist. Thus, the nucleus of the solitary tract contains V1-type vasopressin receptors which are, at least in part, located on neuronal membranes and whose activation generates bioelectrical signals. Solitary tract vasopressin-sensitive neurons may be the target of a vasopressinergic innervation originating in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus and could be involved in the central regulation of cardiovascular functions. PMID- 2531218 TI - Can quantitative renography predict the outcome of treatment of atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis? AB - The accuracy of quantitative gamma camera renography in predicting outcome of treatment was assessed in 31 patients with atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis. Glomerular filtration rate, renal perfusion, relative renal function, and mean parenchymal transit time were calculated before and after treatment (renal artery angioplasty or vascular surgery). Patients were also assessed during the follow up period of up to 6 years. On the pre-treatment study, nine patients did not have prolongation of parenchymal transit time in the kidney on the side of the renal artery stenosis. Despite technically successful angioplasties, none of these patients showed a significant reduction in blood pressure or improvement in renal function. Twenty-two patients had prolongation of parenchymal transit time in the affected kidney. Three suffered complications of treatment, and the remaining 19 showed improvement in blood pressure control, reduction in parenchymal transit time, and improvement in relative renal function. Quantitative renography accurately predicted those patients who improved following intervention for atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis. On progress evaluation, patients with recurrent stenoses were easily identified. PMID- 2531219 TI - Estimation of technetium-99m-MAG3 plasma clearance in adults from one or two blood samples. AB - Technetium-99m mercaptoacetyltriglycine (MAG3) clearance is strongly correlated with effective renal plasma flow and can be used directly as a measure of renal function. For these reasons, formulas were developed for estimation of [99mTc]MAG3 clearance based on one or two plasma samples. A two-exponential model provided an excellent fit for 8-point plasma clearance curves obtained from 35 patients having a wide range of renal function. The 8-point [99mTc]MAG3 clearance could be estimated from a single point at 43 min with an error of 19 ml/min (residual s.d.) or from two samples at 12 and 94 min with an error of 7 ml/min. The relative errors with MAG3 are thus comparable to those reported for similar techniques used with [131I]orthoiodohippurate, [99mTc]diethylenetriaminepentraacetic acid and [51Cr]ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid. PMID- 2531222 TI - Hepatic poly(ADP ribose) polymerase activity in methyl donor-deficient rats. AB - Hepatic poly(ADP ribose) polymerase (EC 2.4.2.30) activity as an indicator of DNA damage was measured in rats fed a low methionine, choline-devoid diet (MCD) for a 3-wk period. Additional groups of rats were either injected intraperitoneally (i.p.) with large doses of nicotinamide (NAM) or saline or fed the MCD diet without folic acid (MCFD). As a positive control, some rats were fed the MCD diet supplemented with methionine and choline (MCD + Met). In all groups of methyl donor-deficient rats and associated with increases in hepatic lipid levels, hepatic malondialdehyde concentrations were found to be increased. This observation is evidence for the occurrence of lipid peroxidation in methyl donor deficiency. Methyl donor deficiency was also associated with a significantly elevated hepatic poly(ADP ribose) polymerase activity in all groups of rats as compared to the positive control, suggesting a stimulation of DNA repair processes. The highest enzyme activity was observed in the MCD-NAM i.p. group. PMID- 2531221 TI - Hepatic content of S-adenosylmethionine, S-adenosylhomocysteine and glutathione in rats receiving treatments modulating methyl donor availability. AB - Because of evidence linking methyl group deficiency and increased tumor formation in experimental animals, we explored other possible methods of producing a methyl group deficiency. Rats fed a low methionine diet lacking choline (MCD) were injected intraperitoneally daily for 3 wk with large doses of nicotinamide. Hepatic levels of lipids were elevated, S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) levels and the SAM:S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH) ratio were decreased, and SAH level was not consistently changed. In livers of rats fed the MCD diet without folate (MCFD), lipids were also elevated and SAM reduced as compared to MCD-fed rats. In rats fed the MCD diet plus a methionine (Met) supplement (MCD + Met), hepatic SAM levels and the SAM:SAH ratio were higher and lipid levels lower than in MCD-fed rats, indicating that the MCD diet is marginally deficient in methyl donor groups. The injection of nicotinamide or the removal of folate from the MCD diet increased the severity of methyl donor deficiency, as shown by lower hepatic SAM levels and higher hepatic lipid levels. Hepatic glutathione levels were similar in MCD- and MCFD-fed rats and were lower than in rats fed the methionine supplemented MCD diet or injected with nicotinamide. PMID- 2531223 TI - Linkage disequilibrium in Huntington's disease: an improved localisation for the gene. AB - The search for the Huntington's disease gene has recently concentrated on the telomere of the short arm of chromosome 4. The evidence suggesting this position has been based on single crossover events, but there is conflicting evidence regarding the position of the gene relative to the most terminal markers. We have found significant linkage disequilibrium between the markers D4S98 (probe BS731B C) and D4S95 (probe BS674E-D) and HD, which supports a localisation for the gene proximal to D4S90 and makes a telomeric localisation unlikely. This disequilibrium may also prove to be important in the future in allowing modification of risk estimates based on genetic linkage. PMID- 2531220 TI - Glomerular filtration and tubular secretion of MAG-3 in the rat kidney. AB - Technetium-99m mercaptoacetyltriglycine (MAG-3) has recently been introduced as a new radiopharmaceutical for dynamic renal scintigraphy. To elucidate the mechanism of renal excretion, micropuncture experiments were performed in rat kidneys for direct measurements of glomerular filtration and tubular secretory capacity. Fluid of Bowman space was collected from superficial glomeruli and analyzed for its contents of [99mTc]MAG-3, [125I]hippurate and [3H]inulin during constant infusion of these compounds. The ratio of activity of ultrafiltrate to that of arterial plasma was 0.23 for MAG-3, 0.68 for hippurate and 1.04 for inulin which demonstrates that the filtrated amount of MAG-3 is only 23% of that of inulin, presumably because of higher plasma protein binding which was also measured in vitro and found to be 80 +/- 1.5% for MAG-3 and 32 +/- 2% for [125I]hippurate. Proximal and distal tubules were also micropunctured and their tubular fluid as well as the final urine analyzed for the activity of hippurate and MAG-3. The tubular fluid to plasma ratio values along the nephron and in the final urine were all lower for MAG-3 than for hippurate, indicating a lower secretory capacity. From measurements of whole renal clearance, GFR and plasma protein binding the filtered amount of MAG-3 was 0.26 and of hippurate 0.87 ml/min.g kidney weight (p less than 0.001) and the secreted amount 2.01 and 2.38 ml/min.g kidney weight (p less than 0.05), respectively. We conclude that MAG-3 is predominantly excreted by tubular secretion and that the lower renal clearance of MAG-3 as compared with that of hippurate is a result both of a substantially decreased glomerular filtration and of a lower tubular secretion. PMID- 2531224 TI - Non-random association between alleles detected at D4S95 and D4S98 and the Huntington's disease gene. AB - Analysis of many families with linked DNA markers has provided support for the Huntington's disease (HD) gene being close to the telomere on the short arm of chromosome 4. However, analysis of recombination events in particular families has provided conflicting results about the precise location of the HD gene relative to these closely linked DNA markers. Here we report an investigation of linkage disequilibrium between six DNA markers and the HD gene in 75 separate families of varied ancestry. We show significant non-random association between alleles detected at D4S95 and D4S98 and the mutant gene. These data suggest that it may be possible to construct high and low risk haplotypes, which may be helpful in DNA analysis and genetic counselling for HD, and represent independent evidence that the gene for HD is centromeric to more distally located DNA markers such as D4S90. This information may be helpful in defining a strategy to clone the gene for HD based on its location in the human genome. PMID- 2531225 TI - Pituitary function studies in a case of mild Hunter's syndrome (MPS IIB). AB - Pituitary function studies were performed in a patient with mild Hunter's syndrome (mucopolysaccharidosis type IIB, MPS IIB) in order to exclude growth hormone deficiency as a possible contributing cause of his short stature. The results indicated that anterior pituitary function and, in particular, growth hormone secretion was normal. The most likely explanation for the short stature is an osseous growth plate disturbance with infiltration of the epiphyses by mucopolysaccharides. PMID- 2531226 TI - Determining residue-base interactions between AraC protein and araI DNA. AB - Depurination/depyrimidation binding-interference experiments (missing contact probing) identified specific candidate residue-base interactions lost by mutants of Escherichia coli L-arabinose operon regulatory protein, AraC, to one of its binding sites, araI. These candidates were then checked more rigorously by comparing the affinities of wild-type and alanine-substituted AraC protein to variants of araI with alterations in the candidate contacted positions. Residues 208 and 212 apparently contact DNA and support, but do not prove the existence of a helix-turn-helix structure in this region of AraC protein whereas contacts by mutants with alterations at positions 256, 257 and 261 which are within another potential helix-turn-helix region do not support the existence of such a structure there. The missing contacts displayed by three AraC mutants are found within two major groove regions of the DNA and are spaced 21 base-pairs apart in a pattern indicating a direct repeat orientation for the subunits of AraC. PMID- 2531227 TI - Isolation of temperature-sensitive mutants of 16 S rRNA in Escherichia coli. AB - Temperature-sensitive mutants have been isolated following hydroxylamine mutagenesis of a plasmid containing Escherichia coli rRNA genes carrying selectable markers for spectinomycin resistance (U1192 in 16 S rRNA) and erythromycin resistance (G2058 in 23 S rRNA). These antibiotic resistance alleles, originally identified by Morgan and co-workers, enable us to follow expression of cloned rRNA genes in vivo. Recessive mutations causing the loss of expression of the cloned 16 S rRNA gene were identified by the loss of the ability of cells to survive on media containing spectinomycin. The mutations were localized by in vitro restriction fragment replacement followed by in vivo marker rescue and were identified by DNA sequence analysis. We report here seven single base alterations in 16 S rRNA (A146, U153, A350, A359, A538, A1292 and U1293), five of which produce temperature-sensitive spectinomycin resistance and two that produce unconditional loss of resistance. In each case, loss of ribosomal function can be accounted for by disruption of base-pairing in the secondary structure of 16 S rRNA. For the temperature-sensitive mutants, there is a lag period of about two generations between a shift to the restrictive temperature and cessation of growth, implying that the structural defects cause impairment of ribosome assembly. PMID- 2531228 TI - Three-dimensional structure of cyclodextrin glycosyltransferase from Bacillus circulans at 3.4 A resolution. AB - Cyclodextrin glycosyltransferase (EC 2.4.1.19) from Bacillus circulans has been purified, crystallized and analyzed by X-ray diffraction. The enzyme is monomeric. SDS/polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis gave an Mr of 73,600(+/- 1000), corresponding to 670(+/- 10) amino acid residues. The structure of the crystalline enzyme has been elucidated at a resolution of 3.4 A, using multiple isomorphous replacement and solvent flattening for phase determination. The resulting electron density map allowed tracing of the polypeptide chain; 664 residue positions have been assigned. The chain fold has been subdivided into five domains. The N-terminal domain forms a (beta alpha)8-barrel, which contains the second domain of about 55 residues as an insert after the third beta-strand. The three remaining domains form almost exclusively beta-pleated sheet structures and consist of about 90, 80 and 95 residues. The chain fold of the three N terminal domains of 492 residues resembles closely the two known structures of alpha-amylases. This geometric similarity corresponds to the observed amino acid sequence homology. On the basis of the sequence homology with alpha-amylases, the active center can be located. The fourth domain has an immunoglobulin fold and is far away from the active center, while the fifth domain participates in the formation of the broad depression at the active center. Accordingly, the cyclodextrin glycosyltransferase chain fold can be considered as an alpha-amylase chain fold with two additional domains. PMID- 2531229 TI - Effects of active oxygen generated by DTT/Fe2+ on cardiac Na+/Ca2+ exchange and membrane permeability to Ca2+. AB - Sarcolemmal vesicles isolated from bovine heart were preincubated at 37 degrees C with an oxygen radical generating system consisting of 1 mM dithiothreitol (DTT) and 50 microM FeSO4. Exposure of the vesicles for 1 to 40 mins stimulated Na+/Ca2+ exchange about 2.5-fold. The DTT/Fe2+ treatment decreased the apparent Km for Ca2+ of Nai+-dependent Ca2+ uptake by 80% (from 63 to 13 microM). The effect on Vmax was much smaller however. The resulting stimulation of exchange activity was diminished by the presence of desferrioxamine (95%) or catalase (60%). In contrast, superoxide dismutase and sodium formate did not prevent the effects of DTT/Fe2+ on the exchanger. Neither Zn2+ nor Ga3+ could replace Fe2+ in the stimulation of Na+/Ca2+ exchange. Passive Ca2+ efflux was determined by first allowing Na+/Ca2+ exchange to continue to plateau values and then diluting the loaded vesicles in the presence of EGTA. Ca2+ leakage from the vesicles was slightly but significantly (P less than 0.05) increased by the action of DTT/Fe2+, the rate constants for the passive Ca2+ efflux being 0.22 and 0.26/min in control and treated groups, respectively. The calcium loading observed in myocytes in ischemia/reperfusion injury suggests that the stimulation of Na+/Ca2+ exchange by active oxygen may moderate the myocardial response to oxygen mediated injuries including ischemia/reperfusion injury. However, the clinical relevance of these phenomena is far from clear as the stimulation depends in part on the Km for Ca2+ prior to treatment. PMID- 2531230 TI - Anti-laminin receptor antibody targeting of liposomes with encapsulated doxorubicin to human breast cancer cells in vitro. AB - The tumor cell laminin receptor is a cell-surface protein that binds laminin with high affinity (Kd = 1.0 nM). The putative ligand-binding domain of the laminin receptor has been molecularly cloned and sequenced. In the present study, we used the predicted amino acid sequence of the laminin receptor to generate synthetic peptide antigens and produced immunoglobulin M (IgM) anti-laminin receptor monoclonal antibodies. The disulfide bond group of the IgM molecule was used to couple the antibodies to the surface of liposomes encapsulating doxorubicin. The anti-laminin receptor monoclonal antibodies coupled to the liposomes bound avidly to the surface of MDA-MB-435S (MDA-435) human breast carcinoma cells, which have high numbers of laminin receptors. These antibody-coupled liposomes exhibited a low degree of binding to Hs 578Bst (Hs 578) normal human breast epithelial cells, which express a low number of laminin receptors. Excess liposomes competed for the binding of unbound laminin to the tumor cell surface, and excess laminin competed for binding with the liposomes. Antibody-coupled liposomes encapsulating doxorubicin were specifically more efficient in inhibiting colony formation by MDA-435 cells in vitro than unbound doxorubicin or liposomes without anti-laminin receptor monoclonal antibodies. Unbound doxorubicin inhibited thymidine uptake by 10%-20% in both Hs 578 and MDA-435 cells, whereas the antibody-coupled liposomes encapsulating doxorubicin inhibited thymidine uptake by 90% in MDA-435 cells but only 15% in Hs 578 cells. Thus, use of anti-laminin receptor monoclonal antibodies coupled with liposomes encapsulating doxorubicin represents a new strategy for selective targeting of doxorubicin to carcinoma cells with exposed laminin receptors. PMID- 2531231 TI - Chemotherapeutic evaluation of glucarate and N-(4-hydroxyphenyl)retinamide alone and in combination in the rat mammary tumor model. AB - We evaluated calcium glucarate (CGT) and N-(4-hydroxyphenyl)retinamide (HPR) for their effectiveness as anti-tumor agents. For this evaluation, we tested the effects of CGT and HPR given alone or combined in the diet on the growth of established 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene-induced rat mammary tumors. When given alone, optimal doses of CGT (128.0 mmol/kg in the diet) or HPR (2.0 mmol/kg in the diet) administered daily for 25 days reduced mammary tumor sizes by approximately 15% or 20%, respectively. Suboptimal doses of CGT (64.0 mmol/kg) or HPR (0.75 mmol/kg) administered daily for 25 days only slightly inhibited tumor growth; over the 25-day period, the tumor sizes in rats on the CGT diet and in rats on the HPR diet increased by 55% and 70%, respectively, compared with a 98% increase in tumor sizes in the rats on the control diet. In contrast, the combination of suboptimal doses of CGT (64.0 mmol/kg) and HPR (0.75 mmol/kg) administered daily for 25 days decreased tumor sizes by 33%. These results are statistically significant. They show that CGT and HPR act synergistically. Consequently, lower concentrations of these agents can be used to inhibit mammary tumor development and growth. PMID- 2531232 TI - Brain mitochondrial swelling induced by arachidonic acid and other long chain free fatty acids. AB - Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), arachidonic acid in particular, are well known, potent inducers of edema in the brain, while monounsaturated and saturated long chain fatty acids do not possess this quality. This investigation has compared the ability of some free fatty acids (FFAs), known to be released during cerebral ischemia, to induce brain mitochondrial swelling in vitro. The PUFAs tested, especially arachidonic acid (20:4), were more potent in causing swelling than saturated or monounsaturated ones, as measured by the decrease in light absorbance of the mitochondrial suspension. This finding is in line with the unique potency of 20:4 to induce brain edema. Incubation of brain mitochondria with 20:4 for 20 min caused a dose-dependent swelling. ATP-MgCl2 both prevented and reversed this swelling, while binding of the 20:4 by the addition of bovine serum albumin could only prevent but not reverse the swelling. The contraction of the swollen mitochondria appeared to be mediated by a mechanism dependent upon high-energy phosphates, potentiated by MgCl2. The concentration of 20:4 required to induce swelling was about 20 times higher than the concentration required to induce inhibition of mitochondrial respiratory function (L Hillered and P H Chan: J Neurosci Res 19:94-100, 1988a). Moreover, reversal of the swelling occurred without recovery of respiratory function. These results suggest that swelling is a phenomenon of minor importance as an indicator of brain mitochondrial dysfunction, at least when induced by 20:4 in vitro. PMID- 2531233 TI - Resistance to extrapyramidal effects of opiates in rats chronically treated with SCH 23390. AB - Rats made tolerant to morphine show neither a change in brain opiate receptor number nor altered sensitivity to the inhibitory effect of opiates on striatal adenylate cyclase (AC) activity. Interestingly, SCH 23390, a selective blocker of D1 dopamine (DA) receptors which, given chronically to rats, induces a 32% increase in D1 receptor number and increases the Vmax of D1-stimulated striatal AC, resulted in marked resistance to acute morphine effects. In particular, rats chronically treated with SCH 23390 failed to show muscular rigidity and increased striatal dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) concentration after morphine. Moreover, basal striatal AC activity in these animals had a significantly reduced sensitivity to opiate inhibition. On the other hand, decreased AC sensitivity to acetylcholine (ACh) inhibition observed in the striatum of rats chronically treated with DFP, an irreversible blocker of acetylcholinesterase, appeared to be secondary to the downregulation of muscarinic receptors and thus did not modify the opiate inhibitory capacity. It was concluded that although a potentiation of striatal AC impairs opiate action, such mechanism is not involved in morphine tolerance. PMID- 2531234 TI - Fetal femur length to detect trisomy 21. A reappraisal. AB - An association between short femur length (FL) relative to the biparietal diameter (BPD) measured in the second trimester and the Down syndrome recently has been reported by Benacerraf et al (1987). Fetuses meeting an easily calculated criterion were stated to have a high probability for trisomy 21. We compared the biometric data from a selected group of 229 normal second trimester fetuses with 30 fetuses of similar gestational age with karyotype-proven trisomy 21. We found a substantial difference in femur lengths of normal fetuses in our population compared to that reported by Benacerraf et al. The reason for the difference is unclear. Further, we were unable to demonstrate a statistically discernible deviation of measured versus predicted femur lengths in the Down syndrome cohort employing either the formula recommended by Benacerraf et al or a formula calculated from our normal cohort. PMID- 2531235 TI - p53-plus-ras-transformed rat embryo fibroblasts express tumor-specific transplantation antigen activity which is shared by independently transformed cells. AB - p53-plus-ras-transformed rat cell lines express a tumor-specific transplantation antigen that is common to a number (85%) of independently derived p53-plus-ras transformed cell lines. This has been shown by immunizing rats with irradiated p53-plus-ras-transformed cells and demonstrating protection of these animals by subsequent live-cell tumor challenge. Several c-myc-plus-ras-transformed cell lines (54% of the lines tested) and one adenovirus E1a-plus-ras-transformed cell line (9% of those tested) were shown to share a common tumor-specific transplantation antigen by their ability to immunize a rat against a p53-plus-ras cell line challenge. Several experimental approaches have been used to fractionate and identify the antigen common to these cell lines. The experimental results reported here make it clear that the p53 protein common to most of these transformed cell lines is not likely to be the tumor-specific transplantation antigen. PMID- 2531237 TI - Residual lesions and early recurrent stenosis after carotid endarterectomy. PMID- 2531236 TI - The mouse adenovirus type 1 contains an unusual E3 region. AB - Since the E3 region of human adenoviruses codes for a series of proteins that are probably involved in viral pathogenesis, the nucleotide sequence for a 3.6 kilobase DNA fragment in the corresponding region (map units 77 through 89) of the mouse adenovirus type 1 genome has been determined. Analysis of the sequence revealed that the genes for the fiber and for the precursor to the hexon associated protein, pVIII, that usually flank the E3 region, are well conserved. However, many of the open reading frames contained in the E3 region of human adenoviruses between the pVIII and the fiber genes were absent from the mouse adenovirus type 1 genome. PMID- 2531238 TI - Some new twists to one of most common procedures in US general surgery. PMID- 2531240 TI - [Measurement of DNA content and analysis of chromosome using flow cytometry]. AB - This include review of recent paper about sensitivity and effective of radiation therapy using flow cytometry. This paper discuss the prediction of tumor response. As predictor of response in cancer. It is DNA aneuploidy, growth fraction (% S fraction), chromosome changes, and monoclonal antibody by oncogene product protein. It is possible that the protocol of cancer treatment will be determined based on prediction data from an individual cancer. Flow cytometry would be a useful tool to get a predictor of radiation, drugs response on each cancer. PMID- 2531239 TI - [A comparison of hemodynamic changes with sufentanil-O2 and fentanyl-O2 anesthesia for coronary bypass grafting]. AB - Hemodynamic changes were investigated in twenty patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting. Thirteen patients received sufentanil-O2 anesthesia and seven patients had fentanyl-O2 anesthesia. Systolic, diastolic, as well as mean arterial blood pressures, heart rate and rate pressure product (RPP) were measured before and after intubation, one minute after skin incision, and one minute after sternotomy. The sufentanil group received 3-5 micrograms.kg-1 of sufentanil for induction and a continuous infusion of 2.5-5.0 micrograms.kg 1.hour-1. The fentanyl group received 10 to 20 micrograms.kg-1 for induction and a continuous infusion of 12.5 micrograms.kg-1.hour-1. In sufentanil group, a decrease of systolic as well as mean arterial pressure, heart rate and RPP was observed following induction. These results showed effective blocking of the sympathetic reflex by sufentanil. In the fentanyl group, immediately after intubation, an increase in systolic pressure, mean pressure, heart rate and RPP was observed. Particularly RPP increased to more than 12000 at this moment. Diastolic pressure was not significantly changed in each group. Stable hemodynamic parameters with no ST-T change were noticed during surgical procedure in each group. We conclude that sufentanil is a superior narcotic agent than fentanyl for the patients undergoing CABG, and it effectively blocks sympathetic reflex activity. PMID- 2531241 TI - [Pathophysiologic role of natriuretic peptides]. AB - To evaluate the pathophysiologic role of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) in hypertension, hemodynamic effects of human ANP and antiserum against rat ANP were investigated in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY). Intravenous administration of human ANP caused greater hypotension associated with a decrease of cardiac output in SHR than in WKY, which suggests that SHR have enhanced responsiveness to exogenous ANP. The antiserum increased blood pressure and cardiac output, with the latter being significantly greater in SHR than in WKY. These results suggest that endogenous ANP counteract, in part, the maintenance of hypertension. In addition, hemodynamic and renal excretory effects of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), a novel natriuretic peptide identified from porcine, were studied in SHR and WKY. BNP caused marked natriuresis and hypotension in a dose-dependent fashion, as observed with ANP. Not only ANP but also BNP may have a role in the regulation of blood pressure and water-electrolyte balance. PMID- 2531242 TI - [Clinical studies of skin manifestations of Sjogren's syndrome]. AB - The skin manifestations of the patients with definitive Sjogren's syndrome were clinically studied. Chief complaints at the first consultation included annular erythema, pernio-like erythema, Raynaud's phenomenon, purpura, and malar erythema. Drug eruptions and xerotic eczema were also occasionally observed during the course. However, annular erythema, pernio-like erythema, drug eruptions, purpura, facial pigmented patches, and erythema nodosum were observed much more frequently in patients with primary Sjogren's syndrome. These skin manifestations might be useful clues for the diagnosis of Sjogren's syndrome in dermatological fields. PMID- 2531243 TI - [Changes of complement in immune complex glomerulonephritis induced by cationized antigen]. AB - Complement system takes an important role in the pathogenesis of immune complex glomerulonephritis. In this study the precise changes of serum complement and its deposition in the glomeruli were investigated in the mice models induced with cationized bovine gamma-globulin (CBGG). Balb/c mice preimmunized with CBGG were injected intravenously with CBGG three times every 24 hours. Proteinuria and hypoalbuminemia have developed from day 3 until the death on day 9-13 of progressed azotemia. This nephritis resembled to mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis histopathologically. Immunofluorescent study revealed granular deposits of CBGG, IgG, A, M and C3 along the glomerular capillary loop. Serum C3 decreased to about 50% of normal controls within 1 hour after challenge of antigen and plasma C3 conversion evaluated by crossed-immunoelectrophoresis, occurred in accordance with C3 reduction and then decreased. Immunofluorescent study showed a big difference in the mode of deposition among IgG, CBGG and C3. The most intense deposits of C3 in the glomeruli were seen 12 hours after challenge of CBGG, and then gradually decreased until the next challenge. IgG and CBGG antigen deposited most intensely soon after the challenge of antigen, and gradually decreased. These results led us to conclude that there existed two phases of complement activation in this immune complex induced mice glomerulonephritis; an early phase activation of complement by antigen-antibody complexes in the circulation and later phase activation of complement by immune complexes after deposition of them in situ glomeruli. PMID- 2531244 TI - [Plasma beta-endorphin in patients on maintenance hemodialysis]. AB - A sensitive and specific radioimmunoassay for beta-endorphin without gel filtration of plasma extracts has been developed by using newly raised antibody. The minimal detectable quantity was 5 pg, and ED 50 was 23 pg/ml. The crossreactivity of antibody with beta-lipotropin was 3.3%, but not showed crossreaction with other fragments of beta-lipotropin, beta-MSH and ACTH. The inter-assay coefficient of variation was 2.7% to 17.4%, and the intra-assay coefficient of variation was 4.5% to 26.4%, respectively. The mean recovery for unlabeled beta-endorphin added to plasma and extracted was 92.1% to 110.4%. Plasma levels of beta-endorphin in 40 normal subjects was 14.7 +/- 3.1 pg/ml and 14.8 +/- 1.1 pg/ml in 10 patients with chronic glomerulonephritis whose renal function was normal. There was no significant difference between the two groups. On the other hand, plasma levels of beta-endorphin in 16 patients on maintenance hemodialysis was significantly increased of 56.3 +/- 6.3 pg/ml than the other two groups. Physiological role of this high beta-endorphinemia in patients on maintenance hemodialysis still remains to be resolved. PMID- 2531245 TI - [Histochemical study of external urethral sphincter in the rabbit. Analysis with construction of histograms]. AB - Male rabbit's external urethral sphincter was examined by histochemical muscle fiber typing (myosin ATP-ase staining), and the analysis with construction of histograms regarding to muscle fiber types were performed. Rabbit's external urethral sphincter was predominantly composed of fast twitch (type 2) fibers (87.3%) as a whole. But the proportion of constituent fiber types varied according to the layers, i.e., the slow twitch (type 1) fibers constituted a relatively high percentage (33.4%) in the inner third layer, while few of the type 1 fibers were found in the outer third layer. The all histograms regarding to fiber type in different layers were normal bell-shaped distribution curves. The mena diameter of type 2 fibers (14.7 microns) was evidently larger than that of type 1 fibers (20.5 microns). All three kinds of muscle fibers equally tended to increase in size toward the outer direction, and in every three layers, the diameter of type 2 was larger than that of type 1 also. The definite differences in the proportion of fiber types and fiber sizes between layers may implicate that the inner and outer layers play different roles, i.e., continuous tonic constriction in the former and sporadic strong constriction of short duration in the latter, under different neural regulations. As far as rabbit's external urethral sphincter is concerned, sporadic strong constriction should be mainly dependent on the muscle fibers of large size composing the outer layer, especially the fast twitch fibers. It is possible that the rabbit is so adapted that it could interrupt urination promptly. PMID- 2531247 TI - [Results of a modified Stamey technique in the management of female urinary stress incontinence]. AB - A modified Stamey technique was applied to nineteen women to control their stress incontinence. Needle puncture was reduced to one time for each side of the urethra by placing the Dacron sleeve parallel to the urethra. Postoperatively, the urethrovesical angle was reduced to be within normal limit, and functional urethral length and maximum urethral closure pressure increased significantly. All patients receiving the modified operation restored urinary continence without any significant complications. PMID- 2531246 TI - [A study on human T cells bearing IgG-Fc receptor in patients with bladder tumor]. AB - IgG-FcR+-T cell ratio was measured in 50 patients with bladder tumor as a parameter to estimate the cell mediated immunity before the treatment. IgG-FcR+-T cell was detected by the double rosette method, employing sheep erythrocytes and rabbit IgG antibody coated chicken erythrocytes. IgG-FcR+-T cell ratio in 50 patients with bladder tumor was 7.6 +/- 5.7% (mean +/- standard deviation), while that in controls consisting of 20 patients with other diseases but bladder tumor was 5.2 +/- 2.4%. There was no significant difference between them. IgG-FcR+-T cell ratio in the group in early stages (pTa, pT1 & pT2) was 5.4 +/- 4.5%, and that in the group in advanced stages (pT3a, pT3b & pT4) was 10.8 +/- 6.0%.- significant difference between them (p less than 0.001)--. IgG-FcR+-T cell ratio in the low graded group (G0 & G1) was 5.5 +/- 4.4% and that in the high graded group (G2 & G3) was 9.7 +/- 6.2%.--significant difference between them (p less than 0.01)--. IgG-FcR+-T cell ratio in patients with the serum level of CEA over 2.6 ng/ml was 12.5 +/- 6.3% and that under 2.5 ng/ml was 5.6 +/- 3.7%.- significant difference between them (p less than 0.001)--. In patients having IgG FcR+-T cell ratio over 9%, there was a correlation between IgG-FcR+-T cell ratio and PHA-induced lymphocyte blastogenesis ratio (r = -0.81, p less than 0.01). In patients with the serum level of CEA over 2.6% ng/ml, PHA-induced lymphocyte blastogenesis was decreased significantly and IgG-FcR+-T cell ratio was increased significantly. These findings suggest that serum CEA may play a role to proliferate the IgG-FcR+-T cells in association with an inhibition of PHA-induced lymphocyte blastogenesis. PMID- 2531248 TI - Measurement of atrial natriuretic peptide in bovine plasma and urine by radioimmunoassay. PMID- 2531249 TI - [Possibility of using WHO questionnaires, distributed by mail, for detecting stenocardia during mass screening]. AB - In the non-organized population of males and females aged 30 to 50 years who live on the territory served by a Tbilisi district polyclinic, the authors have examined the possibilities of applying the WHO questionnaire sent by mail to the detection of angina pectoris, to the establishment of prevalence of arterial hypertension and smoking and the people's awareness of the presence of coronary heart disease. It has been shown that the questionnaire may assist the physician in detecting patients with exercise-associated angina, establishing the priorities of inviting patients for screening to the polyclinic, forming a follow up group. The high prevalence of arterial hypertension was found among males (24.2%) and females (31.2%). The low awareness of patients with angina on having coronary heart disease was also ascertained, which was being 30.7%. PMID- 2531250 TI - [Changes in the contractility of the myocardium in its various conditions in patients with congenital heart defects after surgery]. AB - Intracardiac central hemodynamic parameters were studied and myocardial functional states were assessed in 46 patients with congenital heart disease, 20 of them had stenosed pulmonary artery; 26, presented with secondary atrial septal defect complicated with bacterial endocarditis. The mechanisms responsible for myocardial adaptation after defect correction are discussed. Attention is given to inadequacy of the performance of the heterometric mechanism of regulation due to altered elasticoviscous properties of the cardiac muscle. Plotting the functional curves enables one to gain an insight into the functional states of the myocardium. PMID- 2531251 TI - [Structural changes in coronary arteries in congenital heart defects]. PMID- 2531252 TI - [Significance of circulatory changes, left-ventricular form and calcium metabolism in ventricular hypertrophy in patients with ischemic heart disease]. PMID- 2531254 TI - [Hepatitis B virus in human pathology. II. Extrahepatic replication, delta agent, extrahepatic lesions and their pathogenesis, carcinogenesis, association with AIDS morbidity, treatment, prevention]. PMID- 2531255 TI - Soluble oil dermatitis: a review. AB - Cutting fluid technology has rapidly developed, presenting dermatologists and occupational physicians with a changing pattern of skin disease. The use of soluble oils has increased, and has been followed by an increase in the incidence of eczematous dermatitis. This is usually an endemic, chronic, irritant contact dermatitis, but thorough patch testing can also reveal allergic contact dermatitis. In conditions of heavy exposure, the prevalence of dermatitis can be as high as 30 per cent. Individual susceptibility is very variable. Research into resistance factors in those who do not develop dermatitis, and susceptibility factors in those who do, may elucidate basic mechanisms of irritancy. Efforts must continue to be directed at prevention because, once established, soluble oil dermatitis can be slow to resolve, even after specialist treatment and change of job. Prevention can be directed at the machine operative, the soluble oil, and the machine. PMID- 2531253 TI - [Atrial natriuretic peptide and its significance for arterial hypertension]. AB - Atrial natriuretic peptide is a recently discovered cardiac hormone with natriuretic, vasodilatory and hypotensive activities. The role of this hormone in the pathophysiology of hypertension is of particular interest. In contrast to an earlier concept, a deficiency of the atrial peptide could not be found in animal models of hypertension or in patients. ANP plasma levels were elevated in SHR with accelerated hypertension, in salt-sensitive Dahl rats, in rats with DOCA salt-hypertension and in animals with renovascular hypertension. Elevated ANP levels under these conditions can be explained by an expansion of the intravascular volume or by an elevated atrial wall stretch induced by the hypertension itself. In patients with primary hypertension, plasma levels of the peptide are raised in some patients and are normal in others. Plasma ANP levels correlate with age, blood pressure and signs of left ventricular hypertrophy. A negative correlation is described between ANP and renin. Measurement of plasma ANP levels does not allow a differentiation between primary and secondary forms of hypertension. Elevated ANP levels are also found in primary hyperaldosteronism and in renal failure. Stimulation of ANP secretion by physical exercise and dietary salt loading is maintained in hypertension. Infusion of 1-28-hANP leads to a reduction in systemic arterial pressure in normotensives and hypertensives. The natriuresis induced by exogenous ANP is more pronounced in hypertensives. Stimulation of endogenous ANP secretion does not prevent the rise in blood pressure possibly due to a reduction in ANP receptors in target tissues. PMID- 2531257 TI - [Bacteriophage conversion as a factor modifying the intensity of phagocytosis of Staphylococcus aureus by human leukocytes]. AB - Staphylococcus aureus NCTC 8325-4 and its eight variants lysogenized with phages responsible for the synthesis of staphylococcal staphylokinase were used for the study. Influence of phage conversion of S. aureus on its interaction with human leucocytes and influence of prophage on strain susceptibility to intracellular killing by human granulocytes without opsonins were evaluated. It was found that lysogenization of the strain with the bacteriophages decreased in each case reactivity of human leucocytes for staphylococcal strain what was expressed by lower bioluminescence values and by lower percentage of intracellular killing of bacterial cells carrying prophage. PMID- 2531256 TI - Behavioral effects of 8-OH-DPAT: studies using the Microtaxic ventricular injector. AB - This study introduces the Microtaxic Ventricular Injector, a plastic mold that allows for the rapid administration of drugs into the ventricular system of adult rats. The Microtaxic Ventricular Injector was used to destroy serotonin (5-HT) neurons by administering the neurotoxin 5,7-dihydroxytryptamine (5,7-DHT; 100 micrograms/10 microliters) into the lateral cerebroventricles. Injection of the 5 HT neurotoxin produced a 79% depletion of 5-HT in the cortex and an 86% depletion of 5-HT in the hippocampus. In addition, 5,7-DHT treatment produced a two-fold shift to the left of the dose-response curve of the 5-HT1A agonists 8-hydroxy-2 (di-N-propylamino)tetralin (8-OH-DPAT) or 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5 MeODMT) in producing the 5-HT syndrome indicating the development of denervation supersensitivity following the destruction of 5-HT neurons. In addition, the behavioral effects of 8-OH-DPAT were studied when administered to different CNS sites using the Microtaxic Ventricular Injector. 8-OH-DPAT (10 micrograms) injected into the fourth ventricle produced the 5-HT syndrome in 100% of the rats tested within a 3 min time period. In contrast, 8-OH-DPAT injected into the lateral ventricle produced the syndrome in only 33% of the rats tested and with a 6-9 min delay until this effect occurred. These results indicate the greater potency of 8-OH-DPAT at producing the 5-HT syndrome when administered in ventricular sites that are close to its locus of action in the brainstem/spinal cord region. These experiments demonstrate the usefulness and reliability of the Microtaxic Ventricular Injector as an instrument for rapidly injecting drugs directly into different cerebroventricular sites. PMID- 2531258 TI - Streptozotocin-induced diabetes in rat. III. Antioxidant protection of vascular complications by flunarizine and aligeron. AB - In rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes antioxidant protection of diabetic angiopathy was performed by flunarizine (10 mg/kg/day) and aligeron (10 mg/kg/day), applied intraperitoneally during 2.5 months of diabetes. Diabetic vascular complications were assessed by morphologic determination of PAS-positive mucopolysaccharides and measurement of vascular wall thickness in addition to quantitative estimation of lipid hydroperoxides, thromboxane A2/prostacyclin disbalance and plasma beta-thromboglobulin changes. Both drugs prevented development of diabetic angiopathy in rats by inhibition of lipid peroxidation, prostanoid synthesis and platelet activity, but the effect of flunarizine was more pronounced, which could be explained by its additional blocking effect of abnormal calcium flux into vascular cells. The free radical scavenging action of flunarizine and aligeron was investigated. PMID- 2531259 TI - Beta-endorphin and related peptides suppress phorbol myristate acetate-induced respiratory burst in human polymorphonuclear leukocytes. AB - In the present study, the immunomodulatory effect of beta-endorphin (beta-E) and shorter pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) fragments was evaluated by assessing their influence on respiratory burst in human polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN). The effect of the peptides (10(-17)M - 10(-10)M) on phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) stimulated production of reactive oxygen metabolites was measured in a lucigenin enhanced chemiluminescence (CL) assay. Both POMC peptides with opiate-like activity (i.e. alpha-endorphin (alpha-E), beta-E and gamma-endorphin (gamma-E] and their non-opioid derivatives (i.e. des-TYR1-beta-endorphin (dT beta E), des TYR1-gamma-endorphin (dT gamma E), and des-ENK-gamma-endorphin (dE gamma E] were tested. With the exception of alpha-E, PMA-stimulated respiratory burst was suppressed by all POMC fragments tested. A U-shaped dose-response relation was observed. Doses lower than 10(-17)M and higher than 10(-8)M were without effect. beta-E and dT beta E both suppressed PMA-induced oxidative burst in human PMN at physiological concentrations (10(-16)M - 10(-10)M). gamma-E and dT gamma E proved to be less potent inhibitors, reaching maximal effect at higher concentrations (10(-12)M - 10(-10)M). DE gamma E exerted an even less pronounced but still significant suppressive effect at the concentration of 10(-10)M. None of the endorphins tested was shown to affect resting oxidative metabolism in the PMN. The modulatory effects of the opioid peptides could not be blocked by the opioid antagonist naloxone (10(-8)M). These data show that fragments derived from the POMC-precursor molecule modulate the activation of PMN by suppressing PMA stimulated oxidative metabolism and that this activity does not involve a classical opiate-like receptor. PMID- 2531260 TI - Presence of immunoreactive atrial natriuretic peptide in follicular fluid, ovary and ovarian perfusates. AB - Immunoreactive atrial natriuretic peptide (ir-ANP) was measured in the follicular fluid of pig ovarian follicle, and rabbit ovarian homogenates and perfusates using a specific radioimmunoassay (RIA). Serial dilution curves made with the extracts of follicular fluid, ovarian homogenates and perfusates using SepPak C18 cartridges were parallel with the RIA standard curve. On gel filtration chromatography and reverse phase HPLC, all extracted materials showed high and low molecular weight forms of ir-ANP. The amount of ir-ANP in rabbit ovary was 40.70 +/- 0.39 pg/mg and that in follicular fluid of pig ovarian follicle was 18.88 +/- 2.49 pg/ml. PMID- 2531261 TI - Circling behavior in old rats after unilateral intranigral injection of 1-methyl 4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP). AB - Old and young adult rats received unilateral injections of MPTP or saline into the substantia nigra. Unilateral injection of MPTP in old rats induced ipsiversive circling on day 1 and day 7 after the injection; contraversive circling behavior was induced in MPTP-treated rats by systemic administration of apomorphine. Young rats showed ipsiversive circling on day 1 but not on day 7 after the injection; administration of apomorphine did not induce contraversive circling. On day 10 after the injection of MPTP, the concentration of D-2 receptors in the striatum of the injected hemisphere of old rats was increased by about 25% compared with the striatum of old rats with saline injection and of young rats with MPTP or saline injections. These results suggest that MPTP exerts neurotoxic effects on the nigrostriatal dopaminergic system of old rats and produces supersensitive dopamine receptors in the ipsilateral denervated striatum. PMID- 2531263 TI - Regional chemotherapy for hepatic metastases from colorectal carcinoma. PMID- 2531264 TI - [The ecological characteristics and biomedical consequences of the accident at the Chernobyl Atomic Electric Power Station]. PMID- 2531262 TI - Ozone-induced alterations of lamellar body lipid and protein during alveolar injury and repair. AB - Alveolar Type II cells in the rat respond to severe, acute ozone injury (3 ppm ozone for eight hours) by increasing their intracellular pool of surfactant; however, the newly stored surfactant is abnormal in composition. Lamellar bodies isolated between 24 and 96 hours after ozone exposure contained significantly more cholesterol in relation to phosphatidylcholine than did controls. By contrast, the cholesterol content of surfactant isolated from alveolar lavage remained unchanged throughout an 8-day post-ozone period. The total protein content of lamellar bodies in relation to phosphatidylcholine was significantly decreased at 24 and 48 hours post-ozone. Analysis of lamellar body proteins by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis revealed that the amount of a 14 kDa proteolipid was greatly reduced at the end of the eight-hour ozone exposure and remained low for at least 48 hours. This proteolipid appeared to be a specific lamellar body component since it was not detected in extracellular surfactant. The findings indicate that oxidative alveolar stress initiates characteristic alterations in both lipid and protein constituents of stored surfactant, without perturbation in the composition of extracellular surfactant. PMID- 2531265 TI - Simultaneous determination of FUC and PGM1 by isoelectric focusing. AB - This paper describes a simple procedure for the simultaneous detection of FUC and PGM1 in semen, seminal stains, dental pulps and hair roots after separation by isoelectric focusing using Ampholine pH 5-7. The gel plate was first stained for FUC using an agarose overlay with a buffer of pH 7.5. After reading the FUC types, the FUC overlay was removed and replaced with an agarose overlay for PGM. The results show that the method is useful in medicolegal individualization of seminal stains and teeth when only small samples have to be examined. PMID- 2531266 TI - [The introduction of the team form of work organization and pay in a central district hospital]. PMID- 2531267 TI - Characteristics of mouse lymphoid cells proliferating in vitro by recombinant human interleukin 2 (TGP-3): comparison between normal and nude mice. AB - Various lymphoid cells obtained from BALB/c and BALB/c nu/nu mice were cultured in vitro with recombinant human interleukin 2 (rIL 2), and the characteristics of responder cells to rIL 2 were analyzed. Spleen cells, lymph node cells, and thymocytes except for bone marrow cells obtained from BALB/c mice remarkably proliferated in response to rIL 2. On the other hand, among lymphoid cells obtained from BALB/c nu/nu mice, only lymph node cells showed significant proliferation by rIL 2. Flow cytometric analysis revealed that mainly two types of lymphoid cells were proliferating in response to rIL 2 in BALB/c mice, i.e., Thy 1+, Lyt 1-, Lyt 2- and Thy 1+, Lyt 1-, Lyt 2+ cells. On the other hand, most of the proliferating cells were Thy 1+, Lyt 1-, Lyt 2- cells in BALB/c nu/nu mice. Treatment with various antibodies plus complement revealed that the majority of IL 2-responsive cells in BALB/c mice were Thy 1+, Lyt 1+, and Lyt 2+, although a minor part of them were Thy 1-, Lyt 1-, and Lyt 2-. On the other hand, a predominant type of the IL 2-responsive cells in BALB/c nu/nu mice were Thy 1-, Lyt 1-, and Lyt 2-, though some were Thy 1+. Nonspecific killer activity against tumor cells increased to variable extents in all of the lymphoid cells of both strains after culture with rIL 2. Our results indicate that mouse responder cells to rIL 2 have the following characteristics. First, the responder cells exist abundantly among spleen, lymph nodes, and thymus in normal mice, though their cell lineages are heterogeneous; one is of T cell lineage and the other of natural killer (NK) cell lineage. Second, nude mice are defective in the responder cells of T cell lineage but not of NK cell lineage. Moreover, the responder cells in nude mice predominantly accumulate in the lymph nodes but not other lymphoid organs. PMID- 2531268 TI - [Diagnosis and therapy of malignant peritoneal mesothelioma]. AB - Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma is an uncommon tumor with great diagnostic and therapeutic problems. Symptoms, clinical features and course of the disease are described in three patients which were seen at our hospital within the last years. At the beginning there are often severe weight loss, malaise and sometimes fever of unknown origin. Abdominal pain, increased abdominal girth or nausea indicate advanced tumor stages in most cases. Ultrasonography and computed tomography of the abdomen can give important information during the diagnostic approach. Nevertheless, the definite diagnosis can only be established by laparoscopy or open surgery with biopsy for a histological examination. Despite intern and extern radiotherapy as well as systemic and/or local chemotherapy the prognosis of malignant peritoneal mesothelioma remains unfavourable. Mean survival time ranges from six to 18 months. PMID- 2531269 TI - Genetic testing for neurologic diseases. A rose with thorns. AB - Genetic testing for neurologic conditions, including HD, requires that the primary concerns of informed consent, counseling and support, and confidentiality be recognized and addressed. A safe, reliable test should be available to those who want the information and understand the limitations of the testing procedure. However, testing should be in the context of multifaceted counseling, which combines a variety of components. Safeguards for confidentiality should be assured. Predictive testing for hereditary disease emphasizes the need to focus on capabilities rather than disability. This is an extension of the larger reality that continuing advances in health care can extend the length of an individual's life and stave off death without restoring health. Certainly, new developments in molecular biology may provide new tools, but the basic ethical problems are fundamental issues independent of technology. Just as change is not necessarily progress, the application of scientific advances to health care does not automatically benefit humanity. Sensitivity to human needs is the art of applying medical technology. PMID- 2531270 TI - [Clinical efficacies of schizophyllan (SPG) on advanced gastric cancer]. AB - Immunochemotherapy using the antitumor polysaccharide Sizofiran (SPG), an extract from the culture broth of Schizophyllum, was prescribed randomly for unresectable or resectable gastric cancer patients. In case of unresectable cases, the SPG group (treated by SPG plus tegafur--F method--or 5-FU combined with MMC--MF method--) survived longer (p = 0.009 in the MF method and p = 0.003 in the F method) than did the control group (chemotherapy only). Concerning a treatment regimen for resectable cases, all patients were given 0.4mg/kg and 0.2mg/kg of MMC on the day of surgery and the next day, respectively. Oral tegafur was initiated on the 14th postoperative day and was continued as long as possible. In the SPG group, SPG was administered intramuscularly 40mg/week concurrently with the start of oral tegafur and was continued as long as possible. Although the overall survival rates for 5 years did not differ between both groups, the 5-year survival rate for stage III in the SPG group was superior to the findings for stage III in the control (p = 0.0105). PMID- 2531271 TI - Vestigial mutants of Drosophila melanogaster live better in the presence of aminopterin: increased level of dihydrofolate reductase in a mutant. AB - Vestigial (vg) mutants of Drosophila melanogaster are characterized by atrophied wings. In this paper we show that: (1) aminopterin an inhibitor of dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) and fluorodeoxyuridine (FUdR), an inhibitor of thymidylate synthetase induce nicks in the wings of wild-type flies and phenocopies of the vg mutant phenotype when vg/+ and vgB/+ flies are reared on these substances (vgB is a deficiency of the vg locus). Only thymidine and thymidylate can rescue the flies from the effect of aminopterin. We propose that the vg phenotype is due to a decrease in the dTMP pool in the wings. (2) Mutant vg strains yield more offspring on medium containing aminopterin than on normal medium. The resistance of vg larvae to the inhibitor seems specific to the gene. This is the first case of aminopterin resistance in living eucaryotes. In contrast sensitivity of the vg larvae to FUdR is observed. (3) An increase in the activity and amount of DHFR is observed in mutant strains as compared with the wild-type flies. Our data suggest that the vg+ gene is a regulatory gene acting on the DHFR gene or a structural gene involved in the same metabolic pathway. PMID- 2531273 TI - [Thermo-regulated expression of the htpR gene under the control of the PR promotor of bacteriophage lambda induces supersynthesis of heat shock proteins]. AB - The mechanisms of induction of heat shock protein synthesis in E. coli have been studied. For this purpose plasmids in which htpR gene expression is controlled by the PR-promoter of bacteriophage lambda and by the Trp-promoter have been constructed. An effective induction of heat shock proteins requires both an increased content of htpR protein and additional cofactors formed in the cell under heat shock conditions. PMID- 2531272 TI - Cytotoxicity of gelonin conjugated to targeting molecules: effects of weak amines, monensin, adenovirus, and adenoviral capsid proteins penton, hexon, and fiber. AB - It has been reported previously that ammonium chloride, chloroquine, monensin, and adenovirus-2 potentiate the cytotoxicity of several protein toxins conjugated with various targeting molecules. We have tested whether these agents, and protein components of adenovirus-2, would enhance the cytotoxicity of conjugates of gelonin with J5, an antibody directed against common acute lymphoblastic leukemia-associated antigen, with 5E9, an antibody directed against human transferrin receptor, or with ricin B-chain. We found that none of these agents affected the cytotoxicity of gelonin conjugates to any significant extent. For example, monensin moderately (3-fold) enhanced the cytotoxicity of 5E9-gelonin for Namalwa cells but showed no effect when 5E9-gelonin was tested on HeLa cells. The potentiating effects of these agents for the cytotoxicity of free gelonin varied from marked to nonexistent, depending on the type of cells. In particular, adenovirus-2 potentiated the cytotoxicity of gelonin for HeLa cells but not for Namalwa cells. The three major adenoviral capsid proteins, penton, hexon, and fiber, were isolated. It was shown that penton potentiated the cytotoxicity of gelonin for HeLa cells and that hexon and fiber had no measurable effect on the cytotoxicity of gelonin. However, like the whole virus, penton was not able to affect the cytotoxicity of gelonin conjugates. PMID- 2531274 TI - [Comparison of the catalytic and structural properties of Ca2+-ATPase in longitudinal tubules and terminal cisternae of the sarcoplasmic reticulum]. AB - The catalytic behavior and structural features of Ca2+-ATPase in the vesicles of longitudinal tubules and terminal cisternae of the sarcoplasmic reticulum isolated from rabbit skeletal muscles was analysed. pH measurements have shown under optimal conditions Ca2+-ATPase has similar catalytic behavior both in the fractions of longitudinal tubules and terminal cisternae. Under non-optimal conditions, the behavior similarity was not observed. The specific activity of the ATPase enzyme under optimal conditions was shown to be much higher in the fraction of longitudinal tubules than in the fraction of terminal cisternae. Caffeine added to both fractions had no effect on the catalytic behavior of Ca2+ ATPase. As judged from fluorescence analysis, the structure of Ca2+-ATPase of longitudinal tubules differs from that structure of terminal cisternae. In sarcoplasmic reticulum membrane, at least half of the tryptophan residues of Ca2+ ATPase was shown to be buried in the lipid bilayer. Our findings suggest that in terminal cisternae some of the Ca2+-ATPase molecules exist as an oligomeric protein and do not participate in ATP hydrolysis (named "silent" Ca2+-ATPase). PMID- 2531275 TI - Direct, sequence-specific binding of the human U1-70K ribonucleoprotein antigen protein to loop I of U1 small nuclear RNA. AB - We have studied the interaction of two of the U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP)-specific proteins, U1-70K and U1-A, with U1 small nuclear RNA (snRNA). The U1-70K protein is a U1-specific RNA-binding protein. Deletion and mutation analyses of a beta-galactosidase/U1-70K partial fusion protein indicated that the central portion of the protein, including the RNP sequence domain, is both necessary and sufficient for specific U1 snRNA binding in vitro. The highly conserved eight-amino-acid RNP consensus sequence was found to be essential for binding. Deletion and mutation analyses of U1 snRNA showed that both the U1-70K fusion protein and the native HeLa U1-70K protein bound directly to loop I of U1 snRNA. Binding was sequence specific, requiring 8 of the 10 bases in the loop. The U1-A snRNP protein also interacted specifically with U1 snRNA, principally with stem-loop II. PMID- 2531276 TI - Unstable mitochondrial DNA in natural-death nuclear mutants of Neurospora crassa. AB - The natural-death mutant of Neurospora crassa has an accelerated senescence phenotype caused by a recessive mutation, nd, in a nuclear gene that is located in linkage group I. An examination of mitochondrial functions, however, revealed that the mutant has phenotypic and molecular defects similar to those commonly associated with maternally transmitted fungal senescence syndromes, including (i) deficiencies in cytochromes aa3 and b; (ii) a deficit in small subunits of mitochondrial ribosomes, and hence defective mitochondrial protein synthesis; and (iii) accumulation of gross rearrangements, including large deletions, in the mitochondrial chromosome of vegetatively propagated cells. These traits indicate that the nd+ allele codes for a function that is essential for stable maintenance of the mitochondrial chromosome, possibly a protein involved in replication, repair, or recombination. PMID- 2531277 TI - Nuclear localization of the adenovirus DNA-binding protein: requirement for two signals and complementation during viral infection. AB - The adenovirus DNA-binding protein (DBP) is an abundant multifunctional protein located primarily in the nuclei of infected cells. To define sequences involved in nuclear transport of DBP, a series of point and small deletion mutants were constructed via oligonucleotide-directed mutagenesis. Two short stretches of basic amino acids located in the amino-terminal domain (amino acids 42 to 46 and 84 to 89) were identified. Their importance, however, depended on the context in which DBP was expressed. Disruption of either site prevented nuclear localization after transient expression in transfected 293 cells, implying that two nuclear localization signals are necessary for transport of this nuclear protein. In contrast, the mutant DBPs synthesized during viral infection were located either primarily in the nucleus or in the nucleus and cytoplasm, depending on the mutation and the stage of the viral infection. Thus, the nuclear localization defect could be complemented by viral infection, perhaps through the interaction of the mutant polypeptide with a virus-encoded or -induced factor(s). PMID- 2531279 TI - E2F from adenovirus-infected cells binds cooperatively to DNA containing two properly oriented and spaced recognition sites. AB - E2F is a sequence-specific DNA-binding factor which binds to sites that occur in pairs upstream of the adenovirus E1A and E2 early transcriptional start sites. Substantial quantities of E2F activity were found in uninfected-cell extracts, and there was a modest increase in E2F activity during an adenovirus type 5 (Ad5) infection. In uninfected cells, E2F was found to exist in multiple forms that could be separated chromatographically. Extracts prepared at 24 h after Ad5 infection contained a new form of E2F. This infection-specific form may have been a modified version of one of the forms present in uninfected cells. The infection specific E2F was shown to bind cooperatively to a pair of E2F sites found upstream of the Ad2 early region 2 mRNA cap site. This binding was sensitive to the spacing between the sites and their relative orientation. In contrast, E2F binding in uninfected-cell extracts was unaffected by changes in orientation and spacing, consistent with very low cooperativity or independent binding. PMID- 2531278 TI - A natural case of RIP: degeneration of the DNA sequence in an ancestral tandem duplication. AB - 5S rRNA genes of Neurospora crassa are generally dispersed in the genome and are unmethylated. The xi-eta region of Oak Ridge strains represents an informative exception. Most of the cytosines in this region, which consists of a diverged tandem duplication of a 0.8-kilobase-pair segment including a 5S rRNA gene, appear to be methylated (E. U. Selker and J. N. Stevens, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 82:8114-8118, 1985). Previous work demonstrated that the xi-eta region functions as a portable signal for de novo DNA methylation (E. U. Selker and J. N. Stevens, Mol. Cell. Biol. 7:1032-1038, 1987; E. U. Selker, B. C. Jensen, and G. A. Richardson, Science 238:48-53, 1987). To identify the structural basis of this property, we have isolated and characterized an unmethylated allele of the xi-eta region from N. crassa Abbott 4. The Abbott 4 allele includes a single 5S rRNA gene, theta, which is different from all previously identified Neurospora 5S rRNA genes. Sequence analysis suggests that the xi-eta region arose from the theta region by duplication of a 794-base-pair segment followed by 267 G.C to A.T mutations in the duplicated DNA. The distribution of these mutations is not random. We propose that the RIP process of N. crassa (E. U. Selker, E. B. Cambareri, B. C. Jensen, and K. R. Haack, Cell 51:741-752, 1987; E. U. Selker, and P. W. Garrett, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 85:6870-6874, 1988; E. B. Cambareri, B. C. Jensen, E. Schabtach, and E. U. Selker, Science 244:1571-1575, 1989) is responsible for the numerous transition mutations and DNA methylation in the xi-eta region. A long homopurine-homopyrimidine stretch immediately following the duplicated segment is 9 base pairs longer in the Oak Ridge allele than in the Abbott 4 allele. Triplex DNA, known to occur in homopurine-homopyrimidine sequences, may have mediated the tandem duplication. PMID- 2531280 TI - Insulin gene enhancer activity is inhibited by adenovirus 5 E1a gene products. AB - Selective transcription of the insulin gene in pancreatic beta cells is regulated by its enhancer, located within the 5'-flanking region of the insulin gene. Transcription from the enhancer is controlled by both positive- and negative acting cellular transcription factors. It was previously shown that both the 243- and 289-amino-acid adenovirus type 5 E1a proteins can repress insulin gene transcription in vivo. To localize the insulin DNA sequences involved in this response, we examined the effects of a number of mutations within the 5'-flanking region of the rat insulin II gene on E1a-mediated repression of insulin gene transcription. We have found that E1a proteins inhibit enhancer-stimulated transcription of the insulin gene. The enhancer appears to contain at least two genetically separable and independent E1a target sequence elements. Interestingly, these same regions of the insulin enhancer have been shown to be negatively regulated by cellular transcription factors. These results suggest that E1a-like cellular factors may function in the pancreatic beta-cell-specific expression of the insulin gene. PMID- 2531281 TI - Integrity of the exon 6 sequence is essential for tissue-specific alternative splicing of human leukocyte common antigen pre-mRNA. AB - By alternative splicing, exons 4, 5, and 6 of the human leukocyte common antigen (LCA) gene are included in B-cell mRNA but excluded from thymocyte mRNA. A mini LCA gene that contains only LCA exons 2, 6, and 8 faithfully reproduces this tissue-specific alternative splicing in mouse B and thymocyte cell lines. Elimination of almost all of the intron sequences associated with exon 6 had no effect on the alternative splicing, while linker-scanning analysis showed that a significant length of the exon 6 sequence is essential for alternative splicing. PMID- 2531282 TI - Evidence for glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol anchoring of Toxoplasma gondii major surface antigens. AB - The four major surface antigens of Toxoplasma gondii tachyzoites (P43, P35, P30, and P22) were made water soluble by phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C (PI-PLC). These antigens were biosynthetically labeled with 3H-fatty acids, [3H]ethanolamine, and [3H]carbohydrates. Treatment of 3H-fatty-acid-labeled parasite lysates with PI-PLC removed the radioactive label from these antigens. A cross-reacting determinant was exposed on these antigens after PI-PLC treatment. PMID- 2531283 TI - Multiple splicing factors are released from endogenous complexes during in vitro pre-mRNA splicing. AB - Pre-mRNA splicing occurs in a macromolecular complex called the spliceosome. Efforts to isolate spliceosomes from in vitro splicing reactions have been hampered by the presence of endogenous complexes that copurify with de novo spliceosomes formed on added pre-mRNA. We have found that removal of these large complexes from nuclear extracts prevents the splicing of exogenously added pre mRNA. We therefore examined these complexes for the presence of splicing factors and proteins known or thought to be involved in RNA splicing. These fast sedimenting structures were found to contain multiple small nuclear ribonucleoproteins (snRNPs) and a fragmented heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein complex. At least two splicing factors other than the snRNPs were also associated with these large structures. Upon incubation with ATP, these splicing factors as well as U1 and U2 snRNPs were released from these complexes. The presence of multiple splicing factors suggests that these complexes may be endogenous spliceosomes released from nuclei during preparation of splicing extracts. The removal of these structures from extracts that had been preincubated with ATP yielded a splicing extract devoid of large structures. This extract should prove useful in the fractionation of splicing factors and the isolation of native spliceosomes formed on exogenously added pre-mRNA. PMID- 2531285 TI - Transfection of a human gene that corrects the Lec1 glycosylation defect: evidence for transfer of the structural gene for N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase I. AB - Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) glycosylation mutants provide an approach to cloning mammalian glycosyltransferases by transfection and gene rescue. In this paper, complementation of the lec1 CHO mutation by human DNA is described. Lec1 transfectants expressed human N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase I (GlcNAc-TI) activity and possessed common human DNA fragments. Cloning of GlcNAc-TI should therefore be possible. PMID- 2531284 TI - The adenovirus E1B 19-kilodalton protein stimulates gene expression by increasing DNA levels. AB - In transient expression assays, the adenovirus E1B 19-kilodalton (19K) tumor antigen increases expression from viral promoters and the promoter for the cellular 70-kilodalton heat shock protein (hsp70). To study the mechanism of this effect, we constructed HeLa cell lines that contain stably integrated copies of the 19K gene. Compared with a 19K- control cell line, 19K+ cells produced a significantly higher level of expression from every promoter introduced into the cells by transfection. The 19K protein also increased expression of an RNA polymerase III-transcribed gene but did not affect the level of expression of the endogenous hsp70 gene. The rate of transcription from transfected promoters, as measured by a nuclear run-on assay, was higher in the 19K+ cells than in the 19K- control cells. Furthermore, the level of plasmid DNA remained higher in the 19K+ cell line, suggesting that the 19K protein stabilizes transfected plasmid DNA. The elevated DNA levels seemed to account in full for the increased transcription. The role of the 19K protein in increasing gene expression during viral infection was found to be due to a replication-dependent increase in viral DNA levels. Thus, the 19K protein activates transcription indirectly by producing a higher level of viral or plasmid DNA. The DNA stabilization function of the 19K protein is probably related to the protective role of the 19K protein during viral infection and represents the first example of a viral oncogene product that modulates gene expression by regulating viral and plasmid DNA levels. PMID- 2531286 TI - [Kidney involvement in infectious diseases]. AB - Involvement of the kidneys without direct invasion of them by the pathogenic agents has been recognized in a variety of infections with bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. Pathogenetic importance attaches to immune mechanisms with formation and glomerular deposition of immune complexes, or direct damage caused to the renal parenchyma by microbial toxins. Signs and symptoms may range from minimal proteinuria and/or microhematuria, through nephritic or nephrotic syndrome, to acute or chronic renal failure. Accordingly, all kinds of glomerulonephritis or interstitial nephritis may be found on histological examination. With rapid elimination of the causative agent the prognosis is generally good. PMID- 2531287 TI - [Ecology, epidemiology and clinical symptomatology of Microsporum gypseum infections]. AB - Microsporum gypseum is a geophilic fungus with a world-wide distribution, which is considered to be involved in keratin degradation in the soil. Since 1977, mycotic skin infections due to M. gypseum have been repeatedly observed in the Department of Dermatology in Graz, Austria. A predominance of females was evident. As a rare event, M. gypseum has also been cultivated from onychomycotic lesions. PMID- 2531288 TI - Treatment of onychomycosis with a propylene glycol-urea-lactic acid solution. AB - Twenty three patients with culture positive onychomycosis were treated topically twice daily for 2-6 month with a solution containing 10 g urea, 15 g lactic acid, 4 g NaOH, 21 g water, and 50 g propylene glycol. Trichophyton rubrum was cultured in 17 patients and Candida albicans in 6 patients. The solution was effective in 21 of the 23 patients with cure in 2 patients, marked improvement in 11 patients and improvement in 8 of the patients. In the patients with marked improvement some nails were often completely cured. The good effect of this solution in the treatment of onychomycosis is in correlation with a good in vitro activity with MICs of 5% against Tr. rubrum and 10% against C. albicans and a high penetration into nails in vitro. The patients found the solution cosmetically attractive and no side effects were noticed by the patients. Even if the treatment period was short the good effect in the majority of the patients indicates that this solution is effective in topical treatment of onychomycosis. PMID- 2531289 TI - Molecular cloning and expression of human hepatocyte growth factor. AB - Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is the most potent mitogen for mature parenchymal hepatocytes in primary culture, and seems to be a hepatotrophic factor that acts as a trigger for liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy and liver injury. The partial purification and characterization of HGF have been reported. We have demonstrated that pure HGF from rat platelets is a new growth factor effective at concentrations as low as 1 ng ml-1. The effects of HGF and epidermal growth factor (EGF) are additive. The activity of HGF is not species-specific, although it does not stimulate growth in Swiss 3T3 fibroblasts. HGF has a relative molecular mass (Mr) of 82,000 and is a heterodimer composed of a large alpha subunit of Mr 69,000 and a small beta-subunit of Mr 34,000. Here we report the amino-acid sequence of human HGF determined by complementary DNA cloning and the expression of biologically active human HGF from COS-1 cells transfected with cloned cDNA. The nucleotide sequence of the human HGF cDNA reveals that both alpha- and beta-chains are contained in a single open reading frame coding for a pre-pro precursor protein of 728 amino acids. PMID- 2531290 TI - Identification of a novel translation factor necessary for the incorporation of selenocysteine into protein. AB - During the biosynthesis of selenoproteins in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes, selenocysteine is cotranslationally incorporated into the nascent polypeptide chain through a process directed by a UGA codon that normally functions as a stop codon. Recently, four genes have been identified whose products are required for selenocysteine incorporation in Escherichia coli. One of these genes, selC, codes for a novel transfer RNA species (tRNAUCA) that accepts serine and cotranslationally inserts selenocysteine by recognizing the specific UGA codon. The serine residue attached to this tRNA is converted to selenocysteine in a reaction dependent on functional selA and selD gene products. By contrast, the selB gene product (SELB) is not required until after selenocysteyl-tRNA biosynthesis. Here we present evidence indicating that SELB is a novel translation factor. The deduced amino-acid sequence of SELB exhibits extensive homology with the sequences of the translation initiation factor-2 (IF-2) and elongation factor Tu (EF-Tu). Furthermore, purified SELB protein binds guanine nucleotides in a 1:1 molar ratio and specifically complexes selenocysteyl tRNAUCA, but does not interact with seryl-tRNAUCA. Thus, SELB could be an amino acid-specific elongation factor, replacing EF-Tu in a special translational step. PMID- 2531291 TI - Embryology. Under arrest in the cell cycle. PMID- 2531292 TI - The c-mos proto-oncogene product is a cytostatic factor responsible for meiotic arrest in vertebrate eggs. AB - The c-mos proto-oncogene product, pp39mos, is present in unfertilized Xenopus eggs, and disappears on fertilization. Microinjection of synthetic mos RNA into two-cell embryos induces cleavage arrest at metaphase. By contrast, egg cytosol extracts, when immunodepleted of endogenous pp39mos, lose their cleavage arresting activity in injected embryos. These results demonstrate that Mos protein is the cytostatic factor CSF, long known as an endogenous meiotic inhibitor in vertebrate eggs. PMID- 2531294 TI - Interaction of brain cytoplasmic dynein and MAP2 with a common sequence at the C terminus of tubulin. AB - Two main types of microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs) have been identified in neuronal cells. The fibrous MAPs, including MAP2 and tau, serve to organize and regulate the assembly of microtubules. A second distinct class of force-producing MAPs, including kinesin, dynein and dynamin, are involved in microtubule-based movement. These proteins are mechanochemical ATPases which seem to be responsible for the bidirectional transport of organelles and perhaps also the movement of chromosomes. Here we report that MAP2 inhibits microtubule gliding on dynein coated coverslips, as well as the microtubule-activated ATPase of dynein, indicating that MAP2 and other fibrous MAPs could be important modulators of microtubule-based motility in vivo. By proteolytic modification of tubulin, we found that dynein interacts with microtubules at the C termini of alpha- and beta tubulin, the regions previously reported to be the sites for the interaction of MAP2. The use of site-directed antibodies implicates a small region of alpha- and beta-tubulin, containing the sequence Glu-Gly-Glu-Glu, as the site of the interaction of dynein and MAP2 with the microtubule. PMID- 2531293 TI - T-cell tolerance by clonal anergy in transgenic mice with nonlymphoid expression of MHC class II I-E. AB - T-cell reactivity to the class II major histocompatibility complex I-E antigen is associated with T-cell antigen receptors containing the V beta gene segments V beta 17a and V beta 5. Mice expressing I-E with the normal tissue distribution (on B cells, macrophages, dendritic cells and thymic epithelium) induce tolerance to self I-E by clonal deletion in the thymus. By contrast, we find that transgenic INS-I-E mice that express I-E on pancreatic beta-cells, but not in the thymus or peripheral lymphoid organs, are tolerant to I-E but have not deleted V beta 5- and V beta 17a-bearing T cells. Moreover, whereas T-cell populations from nontransgenic mice proliferate in response to receptor crosslinking with V beta 5 and V beta 17a-specific antibodies, T cells from INS-I-E mice do not. Thus, our experiments provide direct evidence that T-cell tolerance by clonal paralysis does occur during normal T-cell development in vivo. PMID- 2531295 TI - Cardiovascular effects of endothelin 1 in pithed spontaneously hypertensive rats: evaluation of its mechanism(s) of action. AB - The present experiments were carried out to investigate the cardiovascular effects of endothelin 1 (ET) in pithed spontaneously hypertensive (SH) rats and to evaluate its mechanism of action. The results show that ET (0.1-3 nmol/kg i.v.) is a powerful vasoconstrictor agent in the pithed rat. However, at a dose of 3 nmol/kg i.v. all the pithed animals "died" following a gradual decrease in mean arterial blood pressure and pulse pressure and changes in the form of the electrocardiogram (ECG). The predominant feature of the change in the ECG was a progressive decrease in the amplitude of the T wave resulting in a depression of the curve representing repolarization. Investigations in isolated perfused SH rat hearts showed that ET powerfully reduces coronary flow concentration-dependently (IC50 2.1 +/- 0.3 nM) an effect associated with sinus bradycardia and a decrease in coronary pressure amplitude. No overt ECG changes were seen. Control experiments with mechanical flow restriction suggest that bradycardia is a consequence of reduced coronary flow and that the ECG changes observed in vivo can be explained on the basis of coronary insufficiency and resulting myocardial hypoxia. Vasoconstrictor responses to angiotensin II (0.4 microgram/kg i.v.), phenylephrine (8 micrograms/kg i.v.) and ET (0.5 nmol/kg i.v.) were antagonised by around 70% by isradipine (0.03 mg/kg i.a.). The results suggest that endothelin-induced vasoconstriction may involve receptor operated channel activation and opening of voltage sensitive Ca2+ channels. PMID- 2531296 TI - [HIV infection in (para)medical professions: an occupational disease]. PMID- 2531297 TI - [Pharmacology of spasm of intracranial arteries in aneurysm rupture. The latest views on the therapeutic possibilities]. PMID- 2531299 TI - A study of serum antidiuretic hormone and atrial natriuretic peptide levels in a series of patients with intracranial disease and hyponatremia. AB - Patients with intracranial disease are at risk of developing clinical deterioration due to a hyponatremic syndrome associated with an inappropriate degree of natriuresis, the "syndrome of inappropriate secretion of anti-diuretic hormone (ADH)" or SIADH. To investigate the hypothesis that atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) is related to the natriuresis in SIADH, serum samples were obtained from 8 neurosurgical patients with intracranial disease seen consecutively who fulfilled the traditional clinical and laboratory criteria for SIADH. In one patient with a hemorrhagic cerebral infarction an elevation of serum ADH (5.7 pg/ml; normal = 1 to 5 pg/ml) in association with a normal level of serum ANP (49.8 pg/ml; normal = 10 to 60 pg/ml) was seen. Six patients (2 with intracerebral hemorrhage and 1 with hemorrhagic cerebral infarction, 1 with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage, 1 with glioblastoma multiforme, and 1 with Creutz-feldt-Jakob disease) had elevated serum ANP levels (197.0, 112.0, 92.0, 432.0, 97.5, and 138.0 pg/ml, respectively) associated with either normal or low ADH levels (1.3, 2.5, 1.2, 0.7, 2.3, and 0.5 pg/ml, respectively). Another patient with an intracerebral hemorrhage had a normal serum ANP level (37.0 pg/ml) and undetectable ADH level (less than 0.5 pg/ml). In the 7 patients in whom either ADH or ANP alone was elevated, a reciprocal relationship was observed between serum ADH and ANP levels, which could be expressed in logarithmic form (correlation coefficient, r = 0.727). In the 6 patients in whom serum ANP level alone was elevated, a near linear relationship was observed between serum ANP levels and urine sodium excretion (r = 0.851).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2531298 TI - [Study of the immunologic status of persons with Parkinson disease with special reference to the effect of levodopa treatment. Preliminary report]. AB - The nervous system has been demonstrated recently to play an important role in immunological processes. The effect of the dopaminergic system on the functions of the immune system is poorly known as yet. It is known that lymphocytes possess a binding site for 3H-spiperone. Certain immunological parameters were studied in patients with Parkinson's disease treated or not treated with levodopa, and in two control groups. In the patients the proportion of suppressor lymphocytes was increased, the ratio of helper to suppressor lymphocytes was lower, and the stimulation of peripheral blood lymphocytes by non-specific mitogens was reduced. These disturbances were similar to those observed during the ageing process, but were more pronounced. No significant effect of levodopa treatment was observed on these immunological parameters. PMID- 2531300 TI - Long-term changes in striatal D1 dopamine receptor distribution after dopaminergic deafferentation. AB - The morphochemical disposition of the adenylate cyclase-linked dopamine receptor (D1 type) in the rat striatum has been assessed at various time points after a neurotoxic lesion of the dopaminergic afferent pathway to the caudate nucleus. D1 receptor binding sites in the caudate nucleus were determined by in vitro autoradiography of the substituted benzazepine D1 antagonists, [3H]SCH 23390 or [125I]SCH 23982, and contrasted to the pattern of striatal immunohistochemical reactivity of the second messenger compound, cyclic 3',5'-adenosine monophosphate. The results demonstrate that the specific association of this dopamine receptor type with cyclic 3',5'-adenosine monophosphate-stained neurons is abolished at 7 days following chemical interruption of the nigrostriatal pathway, and the receptor disruption is persistent for durations as long as 20 weeks. This investigation suggests that once the postsynaptic receptor pathology is produced by deafferentation, it does not recover the selective morphochemical relationship normally established with the target cell containing the second messenger. This is in contrast to modest biochemical recuperation in D1 dopamine receptor binding seen using this experimental paradigm. This change in D1 dopamine receptor morphochemistry is discussed in relation to the neurochemical deficits produced by dopaminergic denervation and in Parkinson's disease. PMID- 2531301 TI - Serotonin-1 receptor binding sites in the human basal ganglia are decreased in Huntington's chorea but not in Parkinson's disease: a quantitative in vitro autoradiography study. AB - Serotonin-1 receptors were examined in post-mortem human brains, using quantitative in vitro autoradiography. [3H]Serotonin was used as a ligand. Serotonin-1 receptor subtypes were defined with 8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino) tetralin and mesulergine. In the control human basal ganglia, the highest density of serotonin-1 binding sites was observed in both lateral and medial globus pallidus and substantia nigra reticulata. Lower densities were seen in the substantia nigra pars compacta, the nucleus accumbens, caudate and putamen. The majority of these serotonin-1 sites belonged to the serotonin-1D class. No significant alteration of the density and distribution of these sites was observed in Parkinson's disease brains. In contrast, a marked decrease in the density of the receptor binding was seen in the basal ganglia and the substantia nigra from patients dying with Huntington's disease. These results suggest that serotonin-1D receptors are expressed by cells intrinsic to the striatum which degenerate in Huntington's disease and project to the substantia nigra reticulata where these receptors are probably presynaptically localized. These observations in pathological human brains agree with the results of lesion studies in animal models and further support a role for serotoninergic mechanisms in movement control. PMID- 2531302 TI - Elevated calmodulin levels and reduced calmodulin-stimulated calcium-ATPase in Duchenne progressive muscular dystrophy. AB - We determined the calmodulin concentration and Ca2+-ATPase activity in subcellular fractions recovered from samples of vastus lateralis muscle obtained from 18 patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, 10 patients with other primary myopathies, 5 with spinal muscular atrophy, and 16 age-matched controls. Calmodulin levels were increased in the cytosol, plasmalemma, and heavy sarcoplasmic reticulum fractions from Duchenne dystrophy patients; the greatest increases occurred at early stages of disease or in mildly progressive cases. The total Ca2+-ATPase activities were decreased in the Duchenne dystrophy muscles; calmodulin caused a minimal stimulation of the activity in calmodulin-depleted membranes from Duchenne dystrophy compared with control membranes. The changes in calmodulin concentration and Ca2+-ATPase activity complement previous observations of reduced calsequestrin and dystrophin concentrations in Duchenne dystrophy muscles and suggest that these muscles lose calcium regulatory functions at early stages of the disease process. PMID- 2531303 TI - Polish-Georgian cooperative studies on cerebral circulatory disorders. PMID- 2531304 TI - [Sequential study of the immunologic picture in neoplasm patients before and after surgical intervention]. AB - The results obtained in the study of the pre- and postoperative immunological picture in 25 patients suffering from carcinoma of the pavement epithelium of the oesophagus are reported. From this study it emerges that in the preoperative period, the serum levels of immunoglobulin and complement as well as the lymphocyte subpopulations do not present significant changes, whereas 44% of the patients present cell-mediated immunity certified by the skin test. On the other hand, in the postoperative period there is a sharp reduction in the OKT4/8 ratio due in the main to a relative increase in suppressor lymphocytes. In conclusion, the value of skin tests in "in vivo" anergic patient research is underlined, evidencing the need for a programme of immunostimulation in the postoperative period. PMID- 2531305 TI - A monoclonal antibody against the slow isoform of skeletal muscle Ca2+-ATPase selectively stains a subpopulation of neurons in the central nervous system. AB - A monoclonal antibody against the slow isoform of chicken skeletal muscle Ca2+ ATPase recognises, in nervous tissue, analogous membrane proteins which are most concentrated in the microsomal fraction. Histochemically, the immunoreactivity of the antibody is restricted to neurones where the staining is most intense in cell bodies and dendrites, weak in axons and absent from cell nuclei. The expression of the antigen varies greatly between different neuronal populations and is developmentally regulated. The antigen is also axonally transported. PMID- 2531306 TI - Acute treatment with clozapine blocks D1 dopamine receptor binding in discrete brain areas of the male rat. AB - The ability of acute treatment with clozapine in vivo to block D1 receptors in the rat telencephalon and midbrain was investigated using the irreversible inactivation of [125I]SCH 23982 binding sites by N-ethoxy-carbonyl-2-ethoxy-1,2 dihydroquinoline (EEDQ; 6 mg/kg, i.p., 24 h). As analyzed by quantitative autoradiography, clozapine (40 mg/kg, i.p., 15 min before EEDQ administration) was found to produce a partial protection of central D1 receptors in all brain areas investigated, including cerebrocortical regions. These data could perhaps explain the failure of clozapine to induce tardive dyskinesia upon chronic treatment. PMID- 2531307 TI - Avoiding the threat of hepatitis. PMID- 2531308 TI - P.D.T.--destroying malignant cells with laser beams. PMID- 2531309 TI - [The development of drug utilization with special reference to demographic factors]. AB - Possible influences of demographic changes in the Federal Republic of Germany on future expenditures for medication have been investigated using population models from the Federal Statistical Office and data concerning the structure of current drug expenditures of the health insurance system. In addition the former contribution of demographic changes to the development of drug expenditures has been estimated using retrospective analysis. The study demonstrates that a constant supply with medicines would require an increase of expenses of 0.6% per year until 2,000 AD due to demographic changes, assuming other conditions remain constant. Development since 1957, however, shows that demographic influences are of relatively low importance for the development of total drug expenditures. During the last decade the total growth of costs for medicines was 6 times higher than that which would have been expected due to demographic changes alone. Further comparisons with the growth rate of the gross national product (GNP) demonstrate that since 1975 growth of drug expenditures parallels growth of GNP. The price indices for pharmaceutical products and for cost of living developed in a parallel way during the same period of time. PMID- 2531310 TI - [Evaluation of social medicine expert assessment]. AB - There are only few scientific publications in literature on medical expertising in social medicine. Although this deficit may be explained by several facts, it cannot be justified. Evaluation is a systematic set of data collection and analysis activities undertaken to place social practice on a more rational basis, i.e. greater efficiency and justice. These aims also hold good for social medicine. Evaluation, however, is only the first step within a broader research programme for quality control and quality improvement efforts, which can be successfully performed only in cooperation with the social insurance institutions. Within their medical services these institutions should provide the organisational prerequisites to enable qualified scientific research in practical social medicine. PMID- 2531311 TI - [Social medicine results of expert assessment of work disability]. AB - Disability for work is both a medical and a socioeconomic problem. Hence, a great number of publications on this item can be found in scientific literature. These evaluations are mostly based on case statistics. Individualised evaluations, that means, personal statistics, are comparatively rare. This is also a matter for the medical advisory service of the German sickness insurance (MDK), charged with sociomedical expertising for disability to work, particularly in respect of an assured curative effect and additional aftercare measures if necessary. An individualised evaluation (follow-up study) of expertises of disability with regard to frequency of prescribed additional measures is presented. PMID- 2531312 TI - [Distribution of suicides in West Germany (1981-1986)]. AB - Based on data from official suicide statistics the suicide rates of all 11 federal states of FRG between the years 1981 to 1986 are analysed. The age standardised suicide rates show a configuration of high rates in the North of Germany (Hamburg, Bremen, Berlin, Schleswig-Holstein, Niedersachsen). The lowest rates (total, males and females) were found in Nordrhein-Westfalen. In addition, the influence of religion, unemployment and population density (capital cities) on social suicide rates are empirically demonstrated and discussed. PMID- 2531313 TI - [The carcinogenic effect of asbestos]. AB - There is a causal correlation between the inhaled dose of asbestos at the working place, the occurrence of asbestosis, and a 5-fold increased mortality rate of lung cancer. Mesothelioma, which appears to be very rare among the general population, is a specific sign of exposure to asbestos fibres. Malignant tumours of the urinary bladder, the gastro-intestinal tract, the larynx and the oesophagus in workers may also be ascribed to the specific exposure in some cases. After a brief outline of the epidemiology of these diseases the carcinogenic effects of asbestos on the cellular and subcellular level are described. It can be shown from most recent literature that asbestos fibres can also trigger epigenetic and genotoxic effects. Numeric mutation of chromosomes, damage of the plasma membrane, and a modification of the immune system are most significant. In the presence of PAH, asbestos acts as a cocarcinogen. Asbestos fibres are positive in the cellular transformation test. Due to its initiating and promoting effects, asbestos proves to be a complete carcinogen. Obviously, asbestos fulfils the criteria of the modern theory of carcinogenesis as a multicausal and multistep process. PMID- 2531314 TI - [Risk and prevention of transmission of HIV in employees of health and nursing occupations]. AB - According to cautious estimations some 60,000-120,000 HIV-infected persons are currently living in the FRG. The presence of HIV in almost every body fluid has lead to a lively discussion about the potential of a nosocomial infection of health care workers caring for HIV-infected and AIDS patients. The results of ongoing studies show the seroconversion rate after exposure being less than 1%. This is considerably lower than the risk of acquiring a hepatitis B infection after exposure to HBs-Ag-positive blood. Until now 15 proven cases of nosocomial HIV infection have been reported in the literature. Ten cases were needle stick injuries. Therefore, particular attention is necessary while handling needles. In the age of the HIV epidemic no previously unknown precautions have to be taken, however, health care personnel should be aware of the importance of the classical rules of hospital hygiene which have been neglected in recent years. If an exposure to HIV with a contaminated needle has happened a short time prophylaxis with zidovudine seems justified. PMID- 2531315 TI - [Tetrachloroethylene pollution in the neighborhood of chemical cleaning establishments]. AB - In the neighbourhood of drycleaners the concentration of tetrachloroethylene in the blood of inhabitants and in the indoor air was measured. In the indoor air we found up to 20 ppm of tetrachloroethylene. The maximal concentration in the whole blood was 2.500 micrograms/l. In people without known exposure tetrachloroethylene was found in the blood too. Neighbours of drycleaners are highly exposed to tetrachloroethylene and further studies are necessary to check on the health risks due to immission of the chemical. PMID- 2531316 TI - [Medical care in large camp grounds--a report of experiences]. AB - This paper reports on the experiences gathered in respect of medical care during a ten-day youth camp with members of German girl guide and boy scout associations in the summer of 1988 comparising 6,000 youngsters. Large-scale tent camping of children and adolescents lasting for several days requires a costly and complicated infrastructure for self-support. A medical aid unit where patients can also be looked after on an inpatient basis if necessary, is mandatory if there are more than approximately 300 campers. There should be a doctor participants ratio of 1:500 or 1:800 for "around-the-clock" availability of medical aid. One of the doctors in the medical team should be a surgeon or a doctor particularly skilled in minor surgery. Every doctor should have three medical assistants at his disposal. Cooperation with hospitals and practising physicians in the neighbourhood should be clarified and organised beforehand. The most frequently occurring diseases in the tent camp were injuries (36% of the patient material), infectious diseases (30%) often of a viral nature and physically conditioned noxae (sunburn, solar dermatitis, burns). About 8% of the patients had to be treated on an inpatient basis in the medical camp unit. Severe lesions or injuries were very rare, probably mainly thanks to the disciplined behaviour of the participants in the camp. PMID- 2531317 TI - [Comments on the contribution by H. M. Bader (Off. Gesundh. Wes. 51 (1989) 352): "Degree of vaccination of children and adolescents in Schleswig-Holstein"]. PMID- 2531319 TI - [AIDS worldwide. WHO Global Program on AIDS (1 August 1989)]. PMID- 2531318 TI - [AIDS: a report by the AIDS Center of the Public Health Office. Comments on the report by the AIDS Center 3 July 1989]. PMID- 2531320 TI - [Indoor air pollutants and their effects on human health]. AB - Differences between indoor and outdoor exposure to air pollutants are described. Some indoor air problems of actual relevance (tobacco smoke, formaldehyde, wood preservatives, tetrachlorethene, asbestos) and measures to limit indoor air pollution are discussed. PMID- 2531321 TI - [Proceedings of the 39th scientific congresses of the Federation of Public Health Physicians e.V. 30 May-1 June 1989, Lubeck-Travemunde]. PMID- 2531322 TI - [Population exposure to pollutants--selected examples from Schleswig-Holstein]. AB - Environmental health policy aims at protecting human health against toxic, cancerogenic, mutagenic, teratogenic and other damaging influences. Environmental toxicology must assess the risk of environmental pollutants by monitoring exposure, characterising hazards, and proposing preventive measures. Examples of the cooperation between Public Health departments and the Bureau of Environmental Toxicology of Slesvig-Holstein are presented. PMID- 2531323 TI - [The significance of health risks caused by outdoor pollution, demonstrated by cross-sectional studies of pseudocroup in Baden-Wurttemberg]. AB - In the FRG the question of health effects by ambient (outdoor) air pollution is often considered with respect to respiratory diseases in children, especially group syndrome. Therefore, the results of a cross-sectional study in Baden Wurttemberg are discussed as an example for the role of "outdoor pollution" at presently observed concentrations. In the study that was performed in Stuttgart, Tubingen/Reutlingen and Freudenstadt, the parents of 8.420 children at the age of 6 years participated (response rate 93%). Their reports on diseases were additionally validated and completed by the paediatricians concerned. The "crude" prevalence for the age group 0-6 years is about 9% each for croup syndrome and obstructive bronchitis. This is strongly influenced by sex, disposition in the family, education and nationality of the parents. In contrast, influences of ambient air pollution are less clear or missing. Pollution measurements on a sufficient spatial scale were only available for Stuttgart, where logistic regression showed after adjustment for the relevant confounders only that croup syndrome was slightly increased in streets with high traffic load. For childhood asthma (prevalence 1.5%) a correlation with traffic-dependent pollutants (NO2, NO, CO) and traffic load is found. These results are compared with those from North Rhine Westphalia, and their limitations are discussed. PMID- 2531325 TI - [The principles of health resort treatment]. AB - "Cures" prescribed in spas and health resorts are useful especially for patients who are chronically ill. The differences between pharmacotherapy and physiotherapy are discussed. The treatment in health resorts produces adaptations to repeated irritations, which need time, mostly four weeks. However, the changes of the function of circulatory system, lungs, metabolism etc. do not disappear after the end of the cure. To this extent, the principles of treatment in health resorts are comparable to sporting training. The days of incapacity to working are reduced to 50-60% in the following two years after a successful cure. PMID- 2531324 TI - [Evaluation of bathing facilities on natural bodies of water]. AB - The EC guideline of 1976 applies to the examination and assessment of water bodies used for bathing in the Federal Republic of Germany. The main aspect of hygienic assessment is to find out whether the water bodies in question involve the risk of infection from sewage water etc. (microbiological examination for the presence of faecal germs). Chemical parameters are of secondary importance. To obtain comparable results of investigation it will be necessary to elaborate examination methods that go beyond the formulations of the EC guideline and are well defined. Relevant suggestions have been made by an ad hoc working group of the Federal German coastland administrations. A special working team of the Federal Bathing Water committee is also engaged in finding a solution. Besides the examination methods themselves it is also important to pay attention to marginal conditions such as water depth, water renewal or standstill time etc. Of particular relevance are examinations of the site concerned (location, environment conditions etc.) Attention is drawn to the basic differences between assessing surface water from a hygienic and from an ecological point of view. PMID- 2531326 TI - [Preservation, protection and control of medicinal springs with special reference to federally recognized medicinal springs]. AB - The special feature of the framework to be provided for medicinal waters consists essentially in taking measures to separate waters or gas-water mixtures possessing specific chemicophysical qualities, from normal ground water, which is without or almost without minerals and low tempered. Protection and control of medicinal springs are based on technical methods and legislation. PMID- 2531327 TI - [Medical rehabilitation of disability insurance--determination of the status and future perspectives]. AB - The legal prerequisites for medical rehabilitation offered by the pension insurance institutions are described. The definition of position includes the attitude towards applying for rehabilitation and its repercussions on the selection of rehabilitation, specific questions with regard to expert opinion, the indications for general medical rehabilitation measures and the changes within the concept of rehabilitation. Future possibilities are shown. Some examples of rehabilitation measures relating to specific indications are chosen to demonstrate successes and problems in this regard. Finally, the present state of research in rehabilitation and its future development are considered. PMID- 2531328 TI - [Preventive health care in travel, especially vaccinations]. AB - Nearly 40 million journeys abroad were recorded from the Federal Republic of Germany last year. 60-70% of travellers going to southern countries seek medical advice for preventive measures, particularly in Public Health centres. Inquiries for vaccinations are prevalent. Current aspects of immunization against yellow fever, cholera, tetanus, polio, typhoid fever, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies meningococcal meningitis, European tick-borne encephalitis, measles and tuberculosis are discussed. Finally, some remarks on malaria prevention, hygiene, health insurance and information services are given in brief. PMID- 2531329 TI - [Does leisure time cause illness? Leisure time behavior and its sequelae]. AB - Most people in West Germany (and elsewhere) equate leisure time with joy of living, relaxation and with "having fun", and dismiss any idea of disease or accident almost like heresy. Such lines of thought are far removed from reality. In fact, every third inhabitant of West Germany needs medical care at least once in five years because of health damage during his or her holidays or during leisure-time or sports activities, or health injury sustained while travelling or staying in foreign countries. Travellers' diseases are among the most frequent leisure-time ailments. The "dream of a holiday" becomes a nightmare for every 20th traveller: more than a million West Germans (6% of the vacationists) fell ill during their holidays in 1988. Leisure-time sports activities are yet another cause of disease and accidents: amateur sports activities have been increasing by leaps and bounds because people have more leisure time to spend and yet feel cramped up in their offices and working places with lack of movement while growing more "health conscious"--as a result, accident hazards have also increased among non-members of sports clubs trying to be zealous sportsmen and sportswomen. In addition to occupational medicine specialists we will also need in future physicians for treating and preventing diseases associated with leisure time. PMID- 2531330 TI - [Diagnostic guidelines in cerebral organic psychosyndromes]. PMID- 2531331 TI - [Epidemiologic responsibilities of the public health service]. AB - Public Health Service (PHS) needs an epidemiological approach to execute and implement its widespread tasks, as laid down by law. Data collection and transfer is strictly limited by law; PHS has usually to refer to its own (current) data, collected and used primarily for individual applications and therefore of limited epidemiologic use. The legal basis for epidemiologic work in the field of PHS is interpreted, the restrictions by data protection are shown, the limited use of the present current data basis is discussed. Finally, the role of PHS as part of the local administration is justified as well as its importance for community based health reports and health planning. PMID- 2531332 TI - [Electronic data processing in public health offices in Schleswig-Holstein- current status and future developments]. AB - There are several fields of activities in Public Health administration that can be rationalised or managed by electronic data processing. This includes typical data bases of Public Health services, text processing, communication, information base searches, statistical and epidemiological evaluations. In some administrations of Slesvig-Holstein, personal computers have been successfully installed for a limited range of functions. The possibility of linking up personal computers in local area networks or multiuser systems is discussed. PMID- 2531333 TI - [A new concept of school medical documentation--recording health data on a personal computer]. AB - A revised concept of health data documentation in schools was tried out in a pilot project in two districts of the city of Hamburg over a period of 2 years. Standardised findings comparable with the so-called "Bielefeld Model" are documented in an EDP-compatible school health record book and fed into a personal computer by members of the school physician's team. These data supply a survey of the state of health of a part of our population and are thus of the nature of a complete cross-sectional and longitudinal study. They can supply the basis for health policy measures if the quality of data coverage and documentation is assured. Examples illustrate the possibility of discovering regionally different characteristics on the spot; supraregional evaluation is possible by data transfer to data carriers after anonymisation. Acceptance by school physicians and parents of children examined according to this new concept is high. Measures have been taken to initiate this method in all Hamburg districts during 1990. PMID- 2531334 TI - [Indications and successes of climate therapy of children]. AB - The indications for courses of climatic treatment are almost the same in various areas. Nevertheless, one should not only work by "trial and error" but should take climatic factors into consideration well in advance. The North Sea is characterised by equable temperatures. Nevertheless, it is a stimulating climate because of the strong wind. The maritime aerosol is a specific factor. The wide horizon enables intensive utilisation of UV radiation. The Baltic is an attenuated stimulating climate with many special features. The effect of mountain climate is attributable to lower temperatures and atmospheric moisture, reduced partial pressure of oxygen as well as greatly increased UV radiation. The medium mountain ranges have a congenial climate in connection with its abundant forests. The action of climatic factors should be considered before establishing indications (diseases of the airways, especially bronchial asthma, diseases of the skin with atopic dermatitis and psoriasis vulgaris as well as hypotensive circulatory disorders). Mild climatic conditions medium mountain ranges and Baltic and also the North Sea in the summer months are to be preferred for infants and the severely ill. According to statistics, improvement was still seen from the physicians point of view in 56% of children after courses of climatic treatment in the mountains lasting for nine months. A very good result was discernible in 56% of the asthma patients after 12 months in the case of the North Sea, and a good result could be discerned in a further 25%. However, it is crucial that the climatic factors are allowed to act in the correct dosage, and that behaviour promoting health via roborant measures, e.g. regular visits to the sauna and avoidance of passive smoking, be practiced at home. PMID- 2531335 TI - [Possibilities of the rehabilitation of children and adolescents with behavior disorders]. AB - After introducing the definition and classification of behaviour disorders in children and adolescents, the author describes the criteria of diagnosis and the procedures at the beginning of rehabilitation measures. Their legal basis in the Federal Republic of Germany is discussed and the institutional possibilities (child guidance, in- and outpatients, home treatment, day hospital, educational establishments etc.) are described. The author concludes that in spite of improvements achieved, present possibilities of rehabilitation of children and adolescents suffering from behavioural disorders (i.e. psychiatric diseases) are still unsatisfactory. PMID- 2531336 TI - [The need for preventive vaccination of children and adolescents in highly civilized industrial countries]. AB - The advance of social and hygienic structures in industrialised countries since the beginning of the 20th century caused a significant change in the spread and pattern of many infectious diseases in these areas. Diphtheria, tetanus and tuberculosis began to disappear assisted in vaccination. The so-called "children's diseases" appeared more and more in later childhood and adolescence. This involved an increase of complications, in the first place neurological disorders. This dramatic change necessitated active immunisation against measles, mumps, rubella and poliomyelitis. The newly recommended schedule of vaccinations in children in the Federal Republic of Germany is based on the present situation of infectious diseases in Central Europe. It is necessary to perform these vaccinations completely to obtain high immunisation rates. It is only then that diphtheria and tetanus can be prevented in future, and that measles, mumps, rubella and poliomyelitis can be eliminated in Europe. PMID- 2531337 TI - [Orthopedic diseases in children and adolescents--indications for prohibiting sports participation]. AB - School sports is not only a compensation for inactivity but also training and basic experience in many kinds of sports. The stress exercised by school sports is similar to that of hobby sports. The dimension of errors in respect of excessive stress in orthopaedic diseases and the biological development- acceleration/retardation--is important for prohibiting school sports in some diseases. The indication for prohibiting school sports either completely or incompletely in the most important orthopaedic diseases in childhood, is discussed. The special importance of part prohibition or participation without any giving marks, is emphasised. PMID- 2531338 TI - [Health promotion by sports in schools. A model project in 3 Cologne public schools--what is the responsibility of the school physician?]. AB - This project was started under the aspect of judging mental (psychic) and physical items of pupils from three schools, aged between 10 and 16. Therefore, it includes not only the subject of sports but also all the other subjects concerning health, such as biology and hygiene. Support by other institutions besides schools was necessary. The observation period was fixed up to three years, the main points being sports and motorial tests and accompanying medical care and survey by school doctors from the Public Health Centre. The project was started at the beginning of the school period 1987/88 and will last until the end of the school period 1989/90. The surveying period is still too short draw any conclusions or to make any statements. PMID- 2531339 TI - [Chronic respiratory tract diseases--environmentally or occupationally-induced]. AB - Chronic bronchitis, lung emphysema and bronchial asthma are the most frequently encountered pneumological diseases. Most patients with chronic bronchitis and emphysema are smokers, therefore the development of the disease is closely related to self responsible habits. In asthmatics bronchial hyperresponsiveness favours a pathologic airway response induced by polluted air. SO2 is believed to only induce airway obstruction in patients with preexisting airway diseases. NO2 and ozone, however, have been shown to induce airway hyperresponsiveness in healthy subjects. PMID- 2531340 TI - [A rare case of an extra-pulmonary tuberculosis]. AB - This is a case report on a 42-year old West. German woman suspected of suffering from an extrapulmonary manifestation of mucous membrane tuberculosis of the ethmoid sinuses. The condition did not improve after application of specific chemotherapy. Only after histological examination of several tissue samples was a direct connection with initial stage Wegeners granulomatosis established. Attention must be drawn to the fact that in isolated cases the differentiation between the histological diagnosis of tuberculosis versus Wegeners disease is complex and often faulty. PMID- 2531341 TI - [The development and most recent status of thoracic diagnosis with reference to the low-dose image intensifier]. AB - The development of indirect thoracic X-ray techniques is discussed, beginning with chest screening using a fluorographic device with a small-size camera, followed by Odelca-fluorographic mass chest examination systems and the current modern low-dose large-field image intensifier techniques including their enormous advantages compared with former techniques. PMID- 2531343 TI - [Forensic problems in neuroses and personality disorders]. AB - The author describes the multifarious problems in expertising when assessing neurotic disturbances. The difficulties start already when determining the appropriate nomenclature and the diagnostic and prognostic assessment. Special emphasis is on the problem of the role the expert is expected to play as well as on subconsciously exercised influences on his final decision. As an example, the problems are discussed that arise in connection with the so-called "compensation neurosis". PMID- 2531342 TI - [Requirements and their realization in thoracic radiography]. AB - Physicians, financial sponsors or administrators, and public opinion make different demands on a working place concerned with chest radiography. The article describes how these demands are translated into reality by present-day equipment setups and systems. In particular, attention is paid on the basis of a slit type radiographic method to present technical possibilities in respect of image quality, dosage and running costs. Modern X-ray systems can produce a high quality and low-cost X-ray image with an extremely minimal dose that is nearly no longer measurable (3% of the previously employed dose). The image obtained in this manner is of a diagnostic value comparable to that of the conventional large size X-ray images. PMID- 2531345 TI - [Psychiatric planning in Schleswig-Holstein]. AB - The new Land government of Slesvick Holstein has resolved to reorganize psychiatric care in a manner that care centres work and are managed in districts that are geographically situated near provincial towns or in county areas where local supervision is rendered easier by their proximity to the seat of local government and to out-patients' domiciles. The article describes the present structure of care, the update state of planning activities and the outlook to the future. PMID- 2531344 TI - [The forensic expert as author--text construction of psychiatric evaluation]. AB - Some aspects of text construction of psychiatric expert opinion are discussed. Based upon the analysis of his own data, the author attempts to show that expert opinions represent conventionalized forms of communication which not only result in certain types of problems of representation, but also allow for different types of representation. PMID- 2531346 TI - [Emergency services for crisis intervention--8 years' experience of a social psychiatry service in a rural area]. AB - This is a report on a special around-the-clock service for psychiatric crisis intervention, maintained by social workers of a Sociopsychiatric Service (SpD) in cooperation with a psychiatrist. Only in a few number of cases it is necessary to make use of Federal German psychiatric legislation ("Psych-KG"). If compulsory admission to a hospital becomes necessary it is usually for a period of from one week to six weeks. The introduction of this sociopsychiatric concept which stresses the importance of familiar community environment, has clearly changed quality and quantity of compulsory admission in rural areas also. Only half of the work of this special service for crisis intervention is called for during regular working hours. PMID- 2531348 TI - [Theory and methods of the project]. PMID- 2531347 TI - [Theory and methods of the project "Hjemme er bedst" (Home is best)]. AB - The purpose of the project "Home is best" is to avoid having to take away children from their family and to bring back children who have already been taken away from their family. The Project offers parents a course, if they want to, in which a counsellor works intensively with the family in their own home for a period of 6 weeks. After one year, during which 65 families with 110 children had participated, the results obtained were as follows: 12% of the children came back to their homes. 15% of the children had not been taken away from their families. 79% of the children participated in the project as preventive arrangement. The project resulted in lowering the cost by approx 1.3 mill. Dkr. PMID- 2531349 TI - [Systemically oriented family counseling (and treatment) within the scope of a social psychiatry service]. AB - For the last 5 years the sociopsychiatric service of the public health administration of the city of Flensburg has been operating a kind of systemic family therapy. The theory of this method is described and placed in relationship with other family therapy theories. Some techniques of family therapy are demonstrated by means of a case. The legal background is shown. The system family treatment has improved as crisis intervention and short time therapy. PMID- 2531350 TI - [The AIDS qualification program of the federal government--a orienting approach for improving the performance of the public health service]. AB - The AIDS Control Programme of the Federal Government is the first national programme in the Federal Republic of Germany, trying to prevent the spread of a specific disease on a broader scale. The question is raised whether the present highly legally orientated Public Health services in the Federal Republic of Germany meet the real health needs of the population. The author also calls for a more policy-orientated Public Health care by the physicians in Public Health services. PMID- 2531352 TI - [Legal questions in the prevention and control of AIDS with special reference to the area of responsibility of the public health service]. AB - AIDS has stimulated public interest in the legal aspects of the Federal German Law on Epidemic Diseases. Publications do not always accurately describe the legal situation. Land governments should have paid more attention to the provisions restricting the use of disinfectants to certain approved products. Some regulations enforced by Federal government are even null and void because they have overlooked relevant passages in the Federal German law. Although on principle Public Health offices are expected to conduct investigations regarding AIDS infection of certain persons, circumstantial evidence or suspicions are usually insufficient so that action cannot be taken or is mostly unnecessary. Coworkers in AIDS counselling bureaus of Public Health offices are not obliged to testify or to make a deposition in court, not even if they are government officials. Non-medical officials or coworkers can undertake some aspects of counselling work on their own responsibility. PMID- 2531351 TI - [Accompanying research of the major project of public health offices--AIDS: the status and future prospects]. AB - The "Model project 'Public Health Departments' ", part of the West German government's AIDS Action Programme, supports the employment of an AIDS counsellor in every local public health department. The Institute for Health Systems Research Kiel designed a reporting system for the model project. After reaching an agreement with the State Authorities and the Federal Ministry of Youth, Family, Women and Health, the reporting system was implemented. The purpose of the reporting system is to provide a comprehensive survey of the model process. The reporting system will be supplemented by further surveys. The evaluation of the programme elements will focus on the conceptual goals of the model project. PMID- 2531353 TI - [Variants of HIV-2 and HIV-2 and approaches for chemotherapy of HIV infection]. AB - Previous work had shown that HIV-1 is a large group of highly divergent viruses, which mutate quickly in the infected person. The analysis of two HIV-2 strains by molecular cloning and sequence analysis has now proved that HIV-2 is a large and very divergent family of viruses as well and that genetically different subtypes exist in the same individual. Both, HIV-1 and HIV-2 strains form subtypes with remarkable differences in their growth potential on lymphocytes and macrophages. Such properties may change during the persistent infection. An antiviral chemotherapy thus must be active against HIV-1 and HIV-2, it must inhibit the viruses on lymphocytes as well as on macrophages and should begin early, in order to avoid that new HIV-subtypes arise in the patient. PMID- 2531354 TI - [AIDS help--evaluation of a public health movement]. AB - The "AIDS-Hilfe" movement-more than 80 local groups are presently united in the Federal German organization of the "Deutsche AIDS-Hilfe e. V." -looks back at a more than five years of experience in the fields of prevention for different target groups, counselling, care, PR-work and representation of interests. Central point of the concept of prevention of "AIDS-Hilfe" is the unprejudiced acceptance of people with HIV/AIDS and people at risk: homosexuals, i. v. drug users, prison inmates, haemophiliacs, and people who are not monogamous. A promising AIDS prevention is confronted by various difficulties: there are waves of hysteria, there is a lack of grants from Federal funds, there is moralizing instead of taking effective measures in health policy, there is a tendency to bureaucratize, there is a restrictive legal approach to the problems of AIDS, etc. In contrast to the good results prevention has already achieved in the group of homosexual men, is a farreaching ignorance and inhumanity on the part of political and administrative authorities in matters of drug use and imprisonment. The paradigm of abstinence is responsible for i. v. drug users to contract AIDS, because low-threshold measures, such as needle-exchange programmes and drug substitution programmes, are refused. To remind the public this fact constantly and to fight for it will be a major concern of the "AIDS-Hilfe" movement. It must always be borne in mind that "principles" are secondary and that human beings must come first. PMID- 2531355 TI - [Sugar substitutes--their significance in preventing dental caries]. AB - Sugar is the most prominent antagonist of teeth. In the Federal Republic of Germany, approx. 2 million tons of sugar were sold for human nutrition in 1986/87. The per capita consumption was 34.8 kg. The significance of sugar substitutes can be derived from the possibility to make some particularly caries causing confectionery types tolerable for the teeth: On the one hand, they will thus lose their caries triggering property; on the other hand, they contribute to the remineralization of carious initial lesions by stimulating the saliva. Teeth tolerable confectionery can be specially marked. Measures and media for familiarising the public with this special "brand" are shown. PMID- 2531356 TI - [The effect of styrene and tetrachloroethylene on electrical activity of the retina]. AB - Clinical investigations of ERG of 202 workers having a contact, during a process of production, with styrole and tetrachlorethylene vapours and of 50 workers having no such a contact as well as experimental investigations of ERG of isolated retina of a guinea-pig (n = 50) subjected to the action of these substances have shown that the action of styrole and tetrachlorethylene leads to a fall of electric activity of the retina. Functional changes develop both in photoreceptors and neuronal elements of the retina. These changes are directly proportional to the degree of styrole and tetrachlorethylene actions and can serve as an early sign of intoxication of the body. PMID- 2531357 TI - [Hereditary diseases of the eye and their relative significance among the causes of blindness and diminished vision in the pupils of boarding schools for blind and amblyopic children in Uzbekistan]. AB - At the present time about 2000 hereditary diseases are known, 246 pathologic genes leading to eye pathology are described. Diagnostics of these diseases is important for correct treatment, prognosis and rehabilitation. Results of examinations, conducted by the authors, of 1843 pupils of boarding-schools for blind and poor-sighted children in Uzbekistan were identified with 87 nosologic forms of hereditary eye diseases which can develop among the contingents of pupils of these schools. Hereditary diseases were diagnosed in 1005 (54%) examined children. The hereditary character of this pathology is confirmed by results of genealogical examination, combination of eye pathologies, associated diseases of internal organs and systems in the examined children. PMID- 2531358 TI - [Cellular and humoral immunity factors as regulators of regenerative morphogenesis]. AB - The published and author's data concerning changes in the immune system during regeneration of various organs are summarized. During the first few hours after partial removal of organs possessing high regeneration capacity, lymphocytes stimulate proliferation of nonlymphoid cells of an organ identical to the operated one; the production of antibodies against thymus-dependent antigen also increases. At the following stages of regeneration, the lymphocytes suppress the cell proliferation and decrease the antigen production. The level of these changes correlates with the level of post operational deficiency of the organ being maximal after total removal of the organ. The functional properties of splenocytes at different stages of regeneration suggest that the high T-helper and T-suppressor activities correlate with stimulation and suppression of non lymphoid cells proliferation respectively. Culture medium supernatant after cultivation of these lymphocytes also changes the proliferation of hepatocytes. The author considers the impairment of natural immune tolerance caused by deficiency of organ auto-antigens that normally suppress lymphocyte proliferation to be the cause of the changes in lymphocyte activity. PMID- 2531360 TI - [Structural statistics of mechanical trauma]. PMID- 2531359 TI - Aqueous/vitreous tonicity in "sugar' cataracts. AB - We examined the aqueous/vitreous tonicity in "sugar' cataracts. Four sets of eyes and their controls were examined: diabetic human eyes, eyes from rabbits and rats fed 50% galactose for up to 1 week, and eyes from streptozotocin-diabetic rats of up to 21 days after diabetes induction. The results showed no statistically significant increase of aqueous/vitreous tonicity in the diabetic human eye and eyes from galactose-fed rats and rabbits. Diabetic rats, on the other hand, showed large tonicity increase in the vitreous, although treatment of the diabetic rats with an aldose reductase inhibitor or insulin completely normalized the tonicity. Seven days after feeding, the galactose-fed animals already showed lens opacities, while diabetic rat lenses remained clear even after 21 days after diabetes induction. These results indicate insignificant osmotic changes in the human eye. In the rat eye, the increase of lens tonicity can be offset by a concomitant increase in the vitreous tonicity. However, this phenomenon is not observed in the galactose eyes. The nature of the osmolytes in the diabetic eye is unclear, although both glucose and sorbitol have been ruled out. The presence of an osmotic regulatory mechanism in the eye is implied. PMID- 2531361 TI - Impaired immune responsiveness in Plasmodium berghei immune mice. AB - Mice immunized against Plasmodium berghei parasites by drug-controlled infection exhibited decreased immunoresponsiveness against rabbit red blood cells (RRBC). Increasing RRBC antigen dose increased responsiveness, but agglutinating anti RRBC antibodies of the IgG class remained undetectable. Clearance of colloidal carbon from the bloodstream of malaria-immunized mice was not different from controls. Removal of all the persistent parasites from immune mice did not restore responsiveness until 140 days after treatment, suggesting that the parasite per se did not influence responsiveness directly. Because of this, and because of the fact that priming of mice with RRBC before P. berghei immunization was not more effective than priming after immunization, it was concluded that antigen uptake and subsequent presentation were not impaired in P. berghei immune mice, in contrast to infected mice. Anti-RRBC antibodies were detected in serum of P. berghei immune mice, but regulation of responsiveness to RRBC by transfer of such immune mouse serum was not found. Immunoglobulin levels, especially of the IgG2 and IgG3 subclass were elevated in sera of P. berghei immune mice, which indicated an LPS-like polyclonal activation. The results also suggest that during drug-controlled infection, which leads to immunity against infection, a state of B-cell tolerance is induced. PMID- 2531362 TI - In-vitro lysis of sensitized Trypanosoma cruzi by platelets: role of C3b receptors. AB - Incubation of Trypanosoma cruzi bloodstream trypomastigotes (Btrys) with C5 deficient blood in the presence of anti-T. cruzi immune mouse serum (IMS) or its IgG fraction resulted in an immediate formation of small clumps in which one could easily see platelets adhered to the parasites. After 4 h of incubation most of the clumps had disappeared and the number of the parasites was considerably reduced. Twenty-four hours later there were only a few remaining parasites. This same sequence of events was also observed when the parasites were incubated with isolated platelets in presence of IMS or its IgG fraction. When the parasites were incubated with plasma in the presence of IMS or its IgG fraction but in the absence of platelets there was strong agglutination of the parasites but no reduction in their number. Incubation of the parasites with platelets and IMS or its IgG fraction in C3-depleted plasma prevented adherence of the platelets to the parasites and their subsequent lysis. It is concluded that platelets are able to induce in-vitro lysis of the Btrys and that this phenomenon is dependent on the platelet' receptor for C3b. PMID- 2531363 TI - Home management of URI in children with Down syndrome. AB - There is an increased risk of upper respiratory infection (URI) for the child compromised by Down Syndrome. Nurses can educate parents to care for the child experiencing mild URI without the need for medical intervention. PMID- 2531364 TI - "Children with disabilities" rather than "Disabled children". PMID- 2531365 TI - Phototoxicity of tin protoporphyrin, tin mesoporphyrin, and tin diiododeuteroporphyrin under neonatal phototherapy conditions. AB - Tin metalloporphyrins are being considered as therapeutic agents for neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, and it is possible that concurrent exposure to phototherapy will occur during their use. Euthymic hairless guinea pigs, Crl:IAF(HA)BR, were given daily intraperitoneal injections of tin protoporphyrin (SnPP), tin mesoporphyrin (SnMP), or tin diiododeuteroporphyrin (SnI2DP) for 3 successive days. They were concurrently exposed to ambient light or two different kinds of phototherapy light under conditions similar to that found in neonatal intensive care units. Phototherapy light exposure was for a continuous period of approximately 72 hours following the first injection of metalloporphyrin. The presence or absence of phototoxicity under these conditions was determined by observations for an erythematous response on the back and ears of the guinea pigs. The dosages used were 0.75, 3.75, and 7.5 mg/kg per day of SnPP, 0.075, 0.375, and 0.75 mg/kg per day of SnMP, and 0.9, 4.5, and 9.0 mg/kg per day of SnI2DP. These dosages for each drug were approximately 1 times, 5 times, and 10 times, respectively, the maximum anticipated clinical dosage. At equal multiples of the clinical dosages, SnI2DP was less phototoxic than SnPP, and SnMP was the least phototoxic of the three compounds. SnPP was marginally phototoxic at the lowest dosage. SnMP was phototoxic only at the highest dosage under phototherapy light emitting ultraviolet A irradiation, but when phototherapy light not emitting ultraviolet A irradiation was used, SnMP was not phototoxic. In all cases, the phototoxic response was reversible when the drug and phototherapy treatment were discontinued. PMID- 2531366 TI - [New trends in physical development of schoolchildren and students]. PMID- 2531367 TI - [Plasmapheresis in immune complex diseases in children]. PMID- 2531368 TI - Nucleotide sequence and transcription of the sugar beet mitochondrial F0F1-ATPase subunit 9 gene. PMID- 2531370 TI - A group II intron in the Neurospora mitochondrial coI gene: nucleotide sequence and implications for splicing and molecular evolution. AB - The temperature-sensitive Neurospora nuclear mutant cyt18-1 is deficient in splicing many Group I mitochondrial introns when grown at its non-permissive temperature; however, splicing of intron 1 in the coI gene of the Adiopodoume (formerly called North Africa) strain is unaffected (R.A. Collins and A.M. Lambowitz, J. Mol. Biol. 184: 413-428, 1985). Here we show that coI intron 1 is a typical Group II intron, the only one identified to date in Neurospora. The differential effect of the cyt18-1 mutation suggests that splicing of certain introns could be regulated independently of others by nuclear-encoded proteins. The intron contains a long open reading frame (ORF) resembling that of the Neurospora Mauriceville mitochondrial plasmid. The intron and plasmid ORFs share unusual features of codon usage that suggest both evolved outside of the Neurospora mitochondrial genetic system. PMID- 2531371 TI - Nucleotide sequence of the F0-ATPase subunit 9 genes from two lines of wheat. PMID- 2531369 TI - Maize U2 snRNAs: gene sequence and expression. AB - The complexity of plant U-type small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particles (UsnRNPs) may represent one level at which differences in splicing between animals and plants and between monocotyledonous and dicotyledonous plants could be effected. The maize (monocot.) U2snRNA multigene family consists of some 25 to 40 genes which from RNA blot and RNase protection analyses produce U2snRNAs varying in both size and sequence. The first 77 nucleotides of the maize U2-27 snRNA gene are identical to U2snRNA genes of Arabidopsis (dicot). Despite much lower sequence homology in the remaining 120 nucleotides the secondary structure of the RNA is conserved. The difference in splicing between monocot. and dicot. plants cannot be explained on the basis of sequence differences between monocot, and dicot. U2snRNAs in the region which may interact with intron branch point sequences. PMID- 2531372 TI - Nucleotide sequence of the F1-ATPase subunit alpha genes from two lines of wheat. PMID- 2531373 TI - Improved cDNA cloning into bacteriophage lambda gt11. PMID- 2531374 TI - Intravenous beta-endorphin: behavioral and physiological effects in conscious monkeys. AB - Beta-endorphin (0.7 and 2.8 mg/kg) and morphine (0.15 and 0.60 mg/kg) were administered intravenously to rhesus monkeys responding on an operant schedule. Beta-endorphin injections resulted in dose-dependent effects which included marked, but relatively brief disruptions in behavioral responding, decreases in systolic blood pressure, and more protracted increases in heart rate. Morphine injections were followed by much longer duration decreases in response rates and systolic blood pressure, and an irregular but largely deceleratory heart rate response. On a molar basis, beta-endorphin was approximately twice as potent as morphine. It was concluded that intravenously administered beta-endorphin exerts behavioral and physiological effects in the unanesthetized primate. PMID- 2531376 TI - Vasopressin receptor distribution in adrenalectomized rats using vasopressin anti idiotype. AB - Following adrenalectomy, it has been demonstrated that parvocellular corticotropin-releasing factor-containing neurons in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of rat hypothalamus synthesize vasopressin. The present study examined whether putative vasopressin receptors are expressed in parallel with the appearance of vasopressin immunoreactivity in these parvocellular neurons. A vasopressin anti-idiotypic antibody which immunostains putative vasopressin receptors associated with magnocellular PVN neurons was utilized. Following adrenalectomy, antivasopressin immunostained neurons in parvocellular and magnocellular PVN, whereas the anti-idiotypic antibody immunostained magnocellular neurons only. We therefore conclude that the putative vasopressin receptor recognized by the anti-idiotype is not demonstrated in association with parvocellular vasopressin-producing neurons of the adrenalectomized rat. PMID- 2531375 TI - Memory effect of caerulein and its analogs in active and passive avoidance responses in the rat. AB - The memory effects of caerulein (CER) and its analogs ([des-Gln2]-CER and [Leu5,Nle8]-CER) were compared with that of cholecystokinin octapeptide (CCK-8) using active and passive avoidance responses in rats. In the active avoidance test, single subcutaneous (SC) injection of CER and its analogs immediately after the learning trials at doses of 10 and 100 ng/kg prevented extinction of learned task for 10 days, and at a dose of 1000 ng/kg for at least 15 days, but the effect of CCK-8 was somewhat weaker. In the saline control group, the number of responses decreased after 5 days. In the passive avoidance response, electroconvulsive shock (ECS)-induced amnesia was partially prevented by CCK-8 at doses of 100 and 1000 ng/kg SC, while CER and its analogs at doses of more than 100 ng/kg totally prevented the ECS-induced amnesia. Intraperitoneal administration of scopolamine caused complete amnesia which was also partially prevented by CCK-8, while CER could totally prevent the amnesia following SC injection of 2 micrograms/kg. These results indicate that CER and its analogs are more effective than CCK-8 for preventing experimental amnesia. PMID- 2531377 TI - Endopeptidase-24.11 in human plasma degrades atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) to ANF(99-105/106-126). AB - We previously demonstrated the presence of ANF(99-126), and ANF(99-126) cleaved between Cys105 and Phe106 (cleaved ANF), in human coronary sinus plasma. We now report that cleaved ANF is formed when synthetic ANF(99-126) is added to human plasma. When synthetic ANF(99-126) was incubated in heparinized human plasma, HPLC analysis showed two degradation products. The main product was shown by amino acid and sequence analysis to be cleaved ANF. Degradation of ANF was inhibited by EDTA and phosphoramidon. These findings are consistent with the action of endopeptidase EC 3.4.24.11, which may play an important part in the biological inactivation of ANF. PMID- 2531378 TI - The piroxicam enigma. PMID- 2531379 TI - Dynamics of systemic quinidine photoallergy in the mouse. AB - Photoallergy to systemically administered quinidine was induced in the mouse, and the minimal time for sensitization as well as the duration of the allergy were studied. When groups of female albino mice, pretreated with cyclophosphamide, were exposed to quinidine 100 mg/kg i.p. followed by 0.1 J/cm2 UVB and 5.0 J/cm2 UVA, a positive challenge reaction, measured as ear edema, could be registered as early as the third day after induction and peaked on days 5-12. When animals photosensitized as above were photochallenged after 7 days, and again after 2 and 8 months, strong reactions were obtained on all 3 occasions, suggesting a duration of systemically induced photoallery to quinidine of more than 8 months. In the absence of quinidine, no photosensitivity could be demonstrated with UVA only. Phototoxicity controls were negative. These results suggest that photoallergy induced by systemic administration behaves similarly to contact and photocontact allergy. PMID- 2531380 TI - Extracorporeal photochemotherapy: indications, methodology, safety aspects, side effects and long-term results. PMID- 2531381 TI - Photoallergic reaction induced by piroxicam. PMID- 2531382 TI - The lack of effect of repeated treatment with antidepressant drugs on the 8-OH DPAT-induced increase in the serum corticosterone concentration. AB - We studied the effect of repeated treatment (twice daily for 14 consecutive days) with the antidepressant drugs imipramine, citalopram and mianserin (all the drugs administered in a dose of 10 mg/kg po) on the 8-OH-DPAT-induced increase in the serum corticosterone concentration. We found that all those drugs affected neither basal nor 8-OH-DPAT-induced increase in the corticosterone concentration. These results suggest that long-term administration of the investigated antidepressant drugs does not modify the functional sensitivity of central 5-HT1A receptors. PMID- 2531383 TI - Antagonism of androgen and estrogen effects in guinea pig seminal vesicle epithelium and fibromuscular stroma by keoxifene (LY156758). AB - Using separated epithelium (SVE) and fibromuscular stroma (SVM) of guinea pig seminal vesicle, the antihormonal effects of daily subcutaneous administration (14 and 28 days) of the benzothiophene keoxifene (LY156758; [6-hydroxy-2-(4 hydroxyphenyl)benzo(b) thien-3-yl] [4-(2-1-piperidinyl) ethoxyl] phenyl) methanone hydrochloride) in intact, castrate, and androgen/estrogen-maintained castrate animals was evaluated. The compound was devoid of agonist activity in castrated males, in that the compound had no stimulatory effect on SVM wet weight or DNA content. In vitro cytosolic binding of [3H]estradiol (E2) in the SVM was decreased in a concentration-dependent manner by keoxifene, but the compound did not perturb the binding of [3H]dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the SVM or SVE. Likewise, keoxifene administration to castrated males treated with exogenous steroids antagonized the estrogen-induced hyperplastic response of the SVM, whereas no interference with androgen-induced growth of the SVM or SVE was observed. Keoxifene treatment of intact male guinea pigs produced regression of the androgen-sensitive SVE as well as the androgen/estrogen-sensitive SVM. Keoxifene-induced decreases in guinea pig serum testosterone levels were associated with this activity. Histological analysis of the seminal vesicle under these conditions suggests androgen deprivation. These findings indicate that keoxifene is a physiological antagonist of androgen action in the intact male guinea pig. The pure estrogen antagonist properties of keoxifene and its ability to decrease accessory sex organ epithelium and fibromuscular stroma in vivo suggest potential applications of the benzothiophenes in the medical management of prostatic neoplasia. PMID- 2531385 TI - [Osteoclastic activation factors]. PMID- 2531384 TI - Effect of plasma protein binding on kinetics of PN 200-110 in the isolated perfused rat heart. AB - The myocardial accumulation and elimination pharmacokinetics of PN 200-110 (PN) were investigated in the single pass isolated perfused rat heart by two methods. A direct method, radioactivity measurement in myocardial tissue after various perfusion times, and an indirect method, concentration determination in coronary effluent, by fractionary collection of samples, during infusion and elimination periods. Both methods showed that the myocardium could be considered as a one compartment model with regard to PN pharmacokinetics. The perfusion with a modified Krebs-Ringer (MKR) solution containing 1 nM of (+/-)PN 200-110 and [3H] (+)PN 200-110 as radioactive tracer, led to an accumulation of about 61.4 fmol.mg 1 myocardial tissue at steady-state. The effect of protein binding on the uptake and pharmacokinetic parameters of PN has been investigated in this isolated perfused heart (IPH) model. binding of PN decreased as a function of increasing bovine serum albumin (BSA) levels in the perfusion solution. As a matter of fact, the mean steady state myocardial concentration of PN was decreased by 42.9, 56.2, 76.5, 83.9 and 95.5% for respectively, 1, 2.5, 6, 10 and 40 g.l-1 of BSA. In the same way, the free fraction, the apparent volume of distribution (Vd) and the distribution and elimination half-lives were decreased. On the contrary, the elimination rate constant was increased. PMID- 2531386 TI - [Treatment of myasthenia gravis]. PMID- 2531387 TI - [A new conservative approach in the treatment of cancer of the rectum]. AB - Between 1980 and 1987, 25 patients with cancer of the middle or lower rectum were treated with preoperative radiotherapy (35 Gy over 3 weeks) followed, a few weeks later, by "tumorectomy". During surgery, a guiding tube was positioned on the tumoral bed for a localized overdose of curietherapy. The superimpression was 20 Gy for submucosal lesions (7 patients) and 25 Gy for lesions that had invaded the muscle coat (8 cases) or reached the serous coat (10 cases). During a mean follow up period of 40.5 months, there were 5 recurrences and they all appeared before 18 months had elapsed since the end of treatment. Two of these 5 patients are alive and without metastasis 1 year after a secondary abdominoperineal rectal amputation. The 20 patients who showed no recurrence have normal sphincter function and 19 of them are now alive without evidence of malignancy. In cancer of the middle or lower rectum this conservative approach seems to be suitable for patients who cannot benefit from radical surgery or refuse abdominoperineal rectal amputation. PMID- 2531388 TI - [Splenectomy can cure thrombocytopenia of systemic lupus erythematosus]. AB - Between 1976 and 1988, 7 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) underwent splenectomy for severe peripheral thrombocytopenia (platelet count below 30,000/mm3) which had resisted corticosteroid therapy (n = 7), high-dose immunoglobulins (n = 4), vincristine (n = 2), danazol (n = 1), cyclophosphamide and plasma exchanges (n = 1). No infective or non-infective complication of splenectomy was observed. One patient died of intracerebral haemorrhage 3 years later, after several recurrences of thrombocytopenia. The 6 survivors have normal platelet counts (more than 150,000/mm3) after splenectomy, over a mean follow-up period of 80 months. Two of these 6 patients never had recurrent thrombocytopenia and have not received any treatment for 17 to 102 months. Four patients are still under prednisone in doses lower than 30 mg/day. Among these, 2 had recurrent thrombocytopenia 2 and 60 months respectively after splenectomy and responded favourably to another course of corticosteroids associated, in one case, with cyclophosphamide. Thus, splenectomy is an effective treatment of the thrombocytopenia associated with SLE. However, the possibility of early or late recurrences makes it necessary to reserve splenectomy to those cases where medical treatment has failed or is contra-indicated. PMID- 2531392 TI - [Detection of medullary cancer of the thyroid. Contribution of calcitonin determination by an immunoradiometric method using 2 monoclonal antibodies]. PMID- 2531390 TI - [Endoscopic ultrasonography of the digestive tract]. AB - Endoscopic ultrasonography of the digestive tract provides for a precise ultrasonic study of the accessible gastrointestinal walls (oesophagus, stomach, duodenum, rectum) and, through these walls, of the adjacent organs (lymph node clusters, posterior mediastinum, pancreas, extrahepatic biliary ducts and perirectal environment). This method is better than computerized tomography to evaluate the local and regional extension of oesophageal and cardial carcinomas producing little or no stenosis and of rectal carcinomas. It is the examination of choice to detect a perianastomotic recurrence of these cancers and to evaluate submucosal tumours of the digestive tract and thick fold stomach diseases. Its use in the aetiological diagnosis of obstacles in the biliary tract and in the pretherapeutic assessment of pancreatic and biliary tract cancers seems to be very promising. PMID- 2531391 TI - [Serotypes, biotypes and antibiotypes of Salmonella typhi murium strains isolated in Senegal]. PMID- 2531393 TI - [A new immunoenzymatic HIV1 test detects IGG and IGM in newborn infants and adults]. PMID- 2531394 TI - [Acute colchicine poisoning. Value of intra-erythrocyte assay]. PMID- 2531389 TI - [Prevention of recurrent hemorrhage caused by the rupture of esophageal varices in cirrhotic patients. A controlled study of propranolol and clip ligation of the esophagus]. AB - Among the various treatments of ruptured oesophageal varices two seem to be effective: oral propranolol therapy and ligation of the oesophagus on clip. In this controlled study these two methods were compared in a series of 55 patients hospitalized for ruptured oesophageal varices. After haemodynamic stability was obtained, the patients were allocated at random to either propranolol therapy (n = 28) or surgery (n = 27). Twenty-one per cent of these patients belonged to group C of Child's classification and 54 per cent to group A. The parameters studied were similar in both groups. Five patients were excluded from the study: 2 in the medical group when it appeared that propranolol was contra-indicated and 3 in the surgical group who died before the operation; however, these 5 patients were taken into account in a second statistical evaluation. Nineteen out the 26 patients under propranolol (73 per cent) had rebleeding (within the first 10 days in 3 cases). In the surgical group recurrent bleeding was observed in 4 out of the 24 patients (17 per cent), and 4 other patients died post-operatively. The difference in favour of the surgical group was highly significant (P less than 0.001), and it remained significant (P less than 0.05) when the 5 patients who could not be treated were included into the calculations. Cox's multivariate analysis showed that patients in Child's C group had a poorer prognosis. PMID- 2531396 TI - [Artificial increase in leukocyte and platelet counts disclosing type II cryoglobulinemia]. PMID- 2531395 TI - [Diabetes insipidus in a case of Behcet's disease with neurologic manifestations]. PMID- 2531397 TI - [Errors in the reading of self-monitoring reagent strips in diabetics with dyschromatopsia]. PMID- 2531398 TI - [Cerebral amyloid angiopathy]. PMID- 2531399 TI - [Perendoscopic hemostasis of hemorrhagic ulcers]. PMID- 2531400 TI - [Peroperative ultrafiltration in complete repair of ventricular septal defect in infants]. AB - Ventricular septal defect in infants induces peroperative fluid overload (particularly extravascular lung water overload) which causes some morbidity after surgical closure of the defect. Thirty infants undergoing the conventional complete correction procedure were retrospectively compared with 32 infants operated upon using ultrafiltration at the end of the cardiopulmonary bypass. There was no difference between the two groups in biological data, haemodynamic parameters and either morbidity or mortality. Nevertheless, a clinical impression of smooth follow-up in patients with ultrafiltration encourages to carry out a prospective and randomized study. PMID- 2531401 TI - [Carotid surgery under locoregional anesthesia]. AB - Eight-five carotid endarterectomies were performed in 77 patients, under regional anaesthesia using 2 different techniques: cervical epidural anaesthesia (35 cases) and cervical plexus block (50 cases). The patients' mean age was 71 years; 80 per cent had arterial hypertension and 41 per cent coronary disease. Transoperative cerebral ischaemia was detected by a 5-minute carotid clamping test, the occurrence of a neurological event indicating that shunting was required. In 62 patients this test was combined with measurement of carotid back pressure. None of the patients needed general anaesthesia. Intraoperative neurological events occurred more frequently (P less than 0.01) when the carotid back pressure was 25 mmHg or less, and 12 temporary shunts were installed for that reason (14.1 per cent). Three neurological events occurred at the end of endarterectomy: no shunt was installed and complete recovery was observed immediately after declamping. No complications ascribable to the anesthetic techniques were recorded. Mortality was nil, and the only neurological morbidity was a brachio-facial deficit which left few sequelae. The frequency of intra- or postoperative arterial hypertension was similar in both groups. Intraoperative hypotension, frequent under epidural anaesthesia, was observed in only one patient who had brachial plexus block (P less than 0.01). The analgesia obtained was equally good with both anaesthetic techniques, but cervical plexus block anaesthesia is easier to perform, had less haemodynamic repercussions and therefore tends to be preferred to cervical epidural anaesthesia. The lack of mortality, low morbidity and absence of systemic complications in this series despite the high number of patients at risk are in favour of this type of anaesthesia, notably for such patients. Moreover, because vigilance is preserved attention can be paid to the quality rather than the rapidity of endarterectomy, which is the best way of preventing embolism. PMID- 2531402 TI - [Cancer of the gallbladder. A surgical experience]. AB - Between 1965 and 1987, carcinoma of the gallbladder was found in 65 patients, 59 of whom were operated upon. Seventy-seven per cent of these patients were women. Mean age was 68 years. Cholelithiasis was present in 77 per cent of the patients. Since 1977, the preoperative diagnosis was made by ultrasonography in 43 per cent of the cases. The overall actuarial 1-year, 5-year and 10-year survival rates were 30, 13 and 13 per cent respectively. For patients whose tumour was limited to the gallbladder wall (Tis, T1, T2), the actuarial 5-year survival rate was 73 per cent. For patients with T3 and T4 tumour, the 2-year survival rate was nil. The resection rate with "curative aim" was 25 per cent, but recurrences occurred in 3 patients (2 T2, 1 T3) out of 11 after cholecystectomy and in 4 patients (1 T2, 3 T3) out of 5 after cholecystectomy and wedge resection of the liver at gallbladder fossa level with regional lymph node dissection. No major hepatic resection was performed. The prognosis mainly depended on the tumoral extension in depth. For the early stages, the survival rate could be higher with a more aggressive surgical procedure. For the usually observed tumours which extend beyond the gallbladder wall, the prognosis has not been improved. PMID- 2531403 TI - [CA 125 increase caused by peritoneal irritation from benign origin]. PMID- 2531405 TI - [Carcinoid tumor of the ileum associated with retroperitoneal fibrosis and right heart involvement]. PMID- 2531404 TI - [The association of extramembranous glomerulonephritis and digestive cancer]. PMID- 2531406 TI - [Value of blind fine-needle aspiration biopsy in the diagnosis of some tumors of the liver]. PMID- 2531407 TI - [Mitochondrial encephalomyopathies]. PMID- 2531408 TI - [Psychiatric aspects of AIDS epidemiology]. PMID- 2531409 TI - [Peripheral thyroid insufficiency. Criteria of equilibrium in treatment with L thyroxine]. AB - During treatment of primary hypothyroidism, the respective values of hormonal assays (total and free T4 and T3, ultrasensitive TSH assay, TRH test) and of the serum markers from peripheral tissue response to thyroid hormones used to detect overdosage are matter to debate. Thirty-four female patients with hypothyroidism, aged 38 +/- 7 years (mean +/- SD) were studied. the mean dose of L-thyroxine required to obtain clinical euthyroidism was 100 +/- 35 micrograms/day. Thyroid hormone and TSH concentrations were measured 20 to 24 hours after the last dose of L-thyroxine and after fasting overnight and were compared with the concentrations obtained in 45 euthyroid controls aged 32 +/- 10 years. PMID- 2531410 TI - [Should mild acute rejection of a cardiac graft be treated?]. AB - With no additional therapy, mild acute cardiac allograft rejection progresses in 30 per cent of the cases towards moderate rejection. Three hundred mild rejections which occurred in 120 patients between May 1987 and May 1989 were studied and divided into 3 groups according to their treatment. Group I rejections (n = 108) were left untreated. In group II rejections (n = 186), the dose of oral corticosteroid therapy was increased, and in group III rejections (n = 6) major immunosuppressive treatment with methylprednisolone and antilymphocyte globulins (or Orthoclone OKT3) were initiated in view of the clinical and echocardiographic severity of the rejection. In the untreated group, 20 per cent of mild rejection progressed to moderate rejection, while 67 per cent are still at a mild stage in control myocardial biopsies. In group II, only 5 per cent of mild rejections have become moderate, and 19 per cent persisted as mild in control biopsies (p less than 0.05). The treatment of group III rejections resulted in complete disappearance of signs of heart failure and improvement of right and left ventricular contractile functions, proving that severe rejection was cured. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of increased oral corticosteroid therapy in minimal acute cardiac allograft rejections, without significant increase in infection or mortality rate. The principal reason for treating mild acute cardiac allograft rejections is to prevent their progression towards moderate rejections which require major immunosuppressive treatments and therefore have higher post-transplantation infection and mortality rates. PMID- 2531411 TI - [Strategies of thrombolysis in the pre-hospital phase in infarction]. AB - In myocardial infarction thrombolysis limits the size of necrosis, preserves left ventricular function and reduces mortality. The sooner the thrombolytic agent is administered after the first symptoms, the more pronounced these favourable effects. Several studies have shown that pre-hospital thrombolysis shortens the time-lag between the first symptoms and the initiation of treatment without resulting in unacceptable complications. This method has a great therapeutic potential, but owing to the lack of randomization and to the insufficient number of patients thus treated, no study has yet demonstrated that pre-hospital thrombolysis reduces the mortality rate to a greater degree than the conventional administration of thrombolytic drugs to hospital in-patients. Pre-hospital thrombolysis is the fashion of the day. It is justified in areas with high population density but not so much in less populated areas where decentralized thrombolysis is more suitable. For this method to be generalized, mobile intensive care units conversant with the diagnosis of myocardial infarction, the treatment of its complications in the early hours and the use of thrombolytic agents must be created. PMID- 2531413 TI - [Acute anisakiasis with spontaneous regression]. PMID- 2531412 TI - [Rapid liver perfusion in multiple organ procurement in children. For liver transplantation]. AB - We report our experience of the rapid liver flush technique in multiple organ harvesting from donor children. Between January 1988 and May 1989, out of 33 liver transplantations in 30 children, 24 were performed using livers obtained from children. The donors' mean age was 75 months. In every case several organs were removed (24 kidneys, 9 heart-lung blocks, 9 hearts, 1 pancreas). The mean duration of the procedure was 153 minutes. Supernumerary hepatic vessels (6 left and 2 right hepatic arteries) were left intact. Twenty-two hepatic grafts were classified as functional. Two grafts classified as non-functional were responsible for 2 deaths in this series. The rapid liver flush technique seems to be satisfactory in donor children when the following characteristics are taken into account: tendency to haemodynamic instability, small caliber of the vessels and fragility of tissues. PMID- 2531414 TI - [Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome]. PMID- 2531416 TI - [Treatment of non-tumor primary hyperaldosteronism with ketoconazole]. PMID- 2531415 TI - [Human pulmonary infection by a strain of Pasteurella multocida producing beta lactamase]. PMID- 2531417 TI - [Hypothyroidism followed by hyperthyroidism. Unusual advanced sequence in the post-partum period]. PMID- 2531418 TI - [Reasons for the late diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis in the outpatient polyclinic network]. AB - A total of 1019 patients were referred by polyclinics of Dushanbe to the Republic Tuberculosis Dispensary for examination and in 109 of them active tuberculosis of the lungs was diagnosed. In 41 of them, a degradation phase was stated and 38 isolated tubercle bacilli. Many of the patients with active tuberculosis of the lungs had been previously observed for prolonged periods by district therapists. Incorrect diagnoses of acute respiratory diseases, pneumonia, chronic nonspecific diseases of the lung and other diseases were recorded in their medical histories. In 0.97 per cent of the persons hospitalized in a therapeutic unit for various diseases of the viscera, acute pulmonary tuberculosis was diagnosed. Retrospective analysis of the outpatient and in-hospital histories of the new cases of pulmonary tuberculosis showed that the mistakes in the diagnoses at the outpatient stage were mainly due to imperfect medical examination of the patients. PMID- 2531420 TI - Receptors for the Fc portion of immunoglobulin G (Fc gamma R) on human monocytes and macrophages. AB - Human mononuclear phagocytes bear a group of cell surface receptors that bind the Fc domain of IgG. These Fc gamma receptors are utilized in the phagocytosis of opsonized cells and immune complexes and are involved in the pathogenesis of several hematologic and immunologic disorders. However, the relative contributions of the different Fc gamma receptors to these processes is uncertain. The expression of these receptors can also be modulated by several physiologic and pharmacologic factors, including IFN-gamma and glucocorticoids, but the mechanisms of this modulation have not been fully elucidated. The recent isolation of molecular probes for these receptors should allow a more complete understanding of the function of these molecules and their response to modulatory signals. PMID- 2531419 TI - Immunoregulatory functions of complement: structural and functional studies of complement receptor type 1 (CR1; CD35) and type 2 (CR2; CD21). PMID- 2531421 TI - Pretest beta-endorphin and epinephrine, but not oxotremorine, reverse retrograde interference of a conditioned emotional response in mice. AB - CD-1 mice were trained in a classically conditioned emotional response paradigm and tested 24 hr later. Exposure to an open field 0 or 1, but not 3 hr after training retroactively interfered with retention of the conditioned emotional response. The retroactive interference was counteracted by the pretest IP administration of beta-endorphin (0.05 microgram/mouse) or epinephrine (1 microgram/mouse), but not by that of oxotremorine (5 micrograms/mouse). The three drugs were able to enhance retention test performance in animals not exposed to the open field after training. In view of evidence in the literature that beta endorphin and epinephrine are released during training in an aversive task like this, it seems likely that these two agents were able to overcome the effect of retroactive interference by reinstating neurohumoral attributes of the conditioned emotional task at the time of testing. PMID- 2531422 TI - 8-OH-DPAT suppresses vomiting in the cat elicited by motion, cisplatin or xylazine. AB - Vomiting was suppressed in cats pretreated with 8-OH-DPAT and then challenged with an emetic stimulus; motion, xylazine or cisplatin. The antiemetic effect is likely due to stimulation of postsynaptic serotonin-1A receptors. The most parsimonious explanation is that it acts at a convergent structure, presumably at or near the vomiting center. If so, 8-OH-DPAT may block emesis elicited by virtually any other stimulus. A supplementary experiment revealed that lorazepam suppressed motion sickness at a dose that produced ataxia, but did not suppress xylazine-induced emesis. These results do not support the possibility that the antiemetic effects of 8-OH-DPAT were the result of anxiolytic activity. PMID- 2531423 TI - Alterations of serotonin neurotransmission and inhibition of mouse-killing behavior: III. Effects of minaprine, CM 30366 and SR 95191. AB - Three closely related aminopyridazine derivatives: minaprine [3-(2-morpholino ethylamino)-4-methyl-6-phenyl pyridazine, dihydrochloride], CM 30366 [3-(2 morpholino-ethylamino)-4-methyl-6-(4-hydroxyphenyl) pyridazine, hydrobromide] and SR 95191 [3-(2-morpholino-ethylamino)-4-cyano-6-phenyl pyridazine] were examined for their inhibitory effects on mouse-killing behavior (MKB). Three groups of killer rats were used: spontaneous killer rats (K rats) and nonkillers which became killers following para-chlorophenylalanine (PCPA) treatment or electrolytical destruction of the dorsal and median raphe nuclei. When given intraperitoneally (IP), the three drugs inhibited MKB of K rats without sedation. When given orally, minaprine showed no antimuricidal effect in K rats. After chronic IP administration of minaprine, MKB inhibition in K rats decreased after 25 days of treatment, probably because serotonin receptors became subsensitive. Minaprine and SR 95191, a derivative of minaprine, are inhibitors of type A monoamine oxidase (MAO), whereas CM 30366, a metabolite of minaprine, has no effect on MAO activity. SR 95191 displayed a similar MKB inhibition in the three groups of killer rats, and in this respect, it behaved like other type A MAO inhibitors. Minaprine and CM 30366 were less efficient in their antimuricidal effect in PCPA-treated and raphe-lesioned killer rats as compared with spontaneous killer rats. Moreover, the time courses of MKB inhibition and MAO A inhibition by minaprine did not correlate. The effects of minaprine on MKB seemed not related in a simple way to an alteration of serotonin level through MAO A inhibition, and rise the question of an alternative mechanism of antimuricidal action, until now unknown. PMID- 2531424 TI - Pharmacological properties of YM-11124, a selective immunosuppressive agent for cell-mediated immunity. AB - Effect of YM-11124 on cell-mediated immune responses, type I to type III allergic reactions and inflammatory reaction was determined in mice, rats and guinea pigs. YM-11124 inhibited picryl chloride- and methylated bovine serum albumin-induced delayed-type hypersensitivity reactions by the treatment during both the sensitization and the elicitation phases in mice. Bilateral adrenalectomy did not prevent the suppression of DTH response by YM-11124. YM-11124 significantly prolonged the survival time of allogenic skin grafts in mice. Furthermore, YM 11124 inhibited the passive Arthus reaction in guinea pigs and the reversed passive Arthus reaction in rats. However, YM-11124 did not affect the passive cutaneous anaphylaxis reaction in rats, Forssman shock in guinea pigs and paw edema in rats. These results indicate that YM-11124 suppresses not only cell mediated immune responses (type IV allergic reactions) but also type III allergic reactions without influence on types I and II allergic reactions as well as acute inflammation. PMID- 2531425 TI - Physiologic regulation and distribution of the renal vasopressin receptor. AB - Previous studies suggest that circulating levels of vasopressin (AVP) influence the responsiveness of the kidney to AVP. To determine how changes in renal AVP receptors and adenylate cyclase (AC) contribute to such altered responsiveness, we analyzed AVP receptors and AVP-sensitive AC in kidneys from Sprague-Dawley, Long-Evans and homozygous Brattleboro rats. In autoradiographic studies, the distribution of [3H]AVP binding sites was similar in all groups, corresponding to the location of AVP-sensitive AC: collecting ducts greater than outer medullary collecting ducts greater than medullary thick ascending limb greater than cortical collecting ducts. No differences in AVP receptor affinity or content were observed in kidney medullary membranes from Sprague-Dawley, Long-Evans or Brattleboro rats (KD = 0.8, 0.9, and 0.7 nM; Bmax = 116 +/- 9, 95 +/- 11 and 98 +/- 6 fmol/mg). Basal and AVP-stimulated AC activities were lower in kidney membranes from Brattleboro rats compared with Sprague-Dawley and Long-Evans animals (basal = 28 +/- 4, 40 +/- 4 and 38 +/- 3 pmol cAMP/mg/min; EDmax = 57 +/- 5, 80 +/- 7 and 71 +/- 2 pmol cAMP/mg/min) with no change in ED50. In 48-hour water-deprived Sprague-Dawley rats, AVP receptors were decreased from 116 +/- 9 to 58 +/- 2 fmol/mg, suggesting that AVP receptors are down-regulated by elevated AVP blood levels. The absence of changes in basal or AVP-stimulated AC in dehydrated rats indicates that receptor-AC coupling is normal and that maximum AC activation can occur with partial receptor occupancy. The data also indicate that impaired renal responsiveness to AVP in Brattleboro rats is not due to down regulation of AVP receptors. PMID- 2531426 TI - Purkyne's description of pressure phosphenes and modern neurophysiological studies on the generation of phosphenes by eyeball deformation. AB - (a) When a subject indents one of his eyeballs in total darkness, he immediately perceives light extending slowly across the whole visual field of the indented eye. The appearance and the time course of these pressure or deformation phosphenes are described. (b) With simultaneous binocular indentation of the eyeballs a flickering patterned phosphene is observed. (c) A short history of the research on pressure phosphenes and its consequences for the theories of vision is presented. (d) Purkyne's observations of monocular deformation phosphenes are described. He repeatedly noted patterned light structures, which most observers only perceive with simultaneous binocular eyeball deformation. It is suggested that Purkyne's deviating observations were caused by amblyopia of one eye. (e) The neurophysiological basis of the monocular pressure phosphenes was investigated by means of microelectrode recordings from single optic tract fibers. The activity of single retinal ganglion cells (on-center, off-center neurons, latency class I [Y-neurons] or latency class II [X-neurons]), was recorded in anaesthetized cats. Eyeball deformation in total darkness led to an activation of the on-center ganglion cells, while the off-center ganglion cells were inhibited. The latency and strength of this activation or inhibition varied considerably between different neurons, but were fairly constant in the same neuron when the eyeball indentation was repeated after a pause of 1-3 min. The latency and strength of neuronal activation or inhibition seemed to be dependent mainly upon the neuron location relative to the point of eyeball indentation. Some on-center neurons also exhibited a short activation at "deformation off". (f) The antagonistic response type of on-center and off-center ganglion cells was also observed when the eyeball was deformed as a hydrostatic open system and the intraocular pressure was kept at 25 mm Hg basic pressure. (g) Dark adaptation up to 45 min affected the deformation responses of retinal neurons only to a small degree, if at all. This corresponds to the observation that deformation phosphenes in a human observer changed little during the course of dark adaptation. (h) We assume that the activation of on-center and inhibition of off center ganglion cells by eyeball deformation are caused by retinal stretching, which also leads to horizontal cell stretch. Stretching the horizontal cell membrane probably generates an increase in membrane sodium conductivity and a depolarization of the membrane potential. This depolarization of the horizontal cell membrane potential is transmitted either directly or indirectly (via receptor synapses) from the horizontal to the bipolar cells.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID- 2531427 TI - Picrotoxin effects on frog ERG at different background illumination but same stimulus contrast. AB - The effect of blockade of GABAergic synapses by picrotoxin on the b- and d-wave of frog ERG was investigated under scotopic (0.002 lx), mesopic (2 lx) and photopic (200 lx) background illumination (Ib). Diffuse white stimuli with two levels of contrast (0.5 and 2.5) were used with each Ib. The aim was to compare the effects of picrotoxin at different background levels, but same stimulus contrast. We found that picrotoxin markedly increased the amplitude and rate of rise of the leading edge of the b- and d-wave with each Ib. This effect was most pronounced at mesopic Ib, smaller at photopic Ib and least pronounced at scotopic Ib. It was relatively stronger on the d-wave than on the b-wave amplitude under scotopic and mesopic conditions. Under photopic conditions, the difference between the picrotoxin effect on the b- and d-wave was much smaller. The possible neuronal mechanisms of the above described picrotoxin effects are discussed. PMID- 2531429 TI - Course of liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy in rats treated with dialysates obtained 17 hours after partial hepatectomy. AB - Various theories have been put forward to explain the regenerative capacity of liver tissue induce by partial hepatectomy (PH). One of them presumes the existence of humoral factors stimulating proliferation of the liver tissue. We evaluated the course of liver regeneration after 65-70% PH as influenced by dialysates (DIA) of the organs of a rat killed 17 h after PH. In addition to kidney DIA, we were particularly interested in the effect of liver and spleen DIA. The experiments were carried out on rats weighting 310-370 g. Kidney, liver or spleen dialysate was administered subcutaneously and the rats were killed 12 or 24 h later by exsanguination from the abdominal aorta. In further rats, PH was performed 24 h after administering DIA and the rat were killed 18, 24, 30, 48 and 72 h after the operation. The initiation of liver regeneration was stimulated by all the given DIA, but especially by liver DIA. The faster onset of liver regeneration 18 h after PH in rats given spleen DIA is interesting. DIA did not greatly affect the hepatocytes of intact liver, but accelerated the initiation of liver regeneration after PH by synchronizing the cell cycle of proliferating hepatocytes. DIA obtained 17 h after PH contained substances which primarily stimulated liver DNA synthesis. From the changes in inhibition of the migration of spleen macrophages in the medium containing liver antigens, and from the circulating immunocomplex values, we conclude that DIA activation of the immune system, a well as the hepatic stimulator substance contained in the DIA, participates in acceleration of the liver regeneration process. PMID- 2531428 TI - Effect of saline solutions administered parenterally in different postoperation phases on the regeneration of rat liver after partial hepatectomy. AB - Two series of experiments were carried out on female laboratory rats with a mean pre-operation weight of 250 +/- 30 g, fed up to the time of the experiment on a standard laboratory diet with water ad libitum. In the first series the rats were subjected to 65-70% partial hepatectomy (PH) or to laparotomy (LAP) and their serum Na+, K+, Cl- and total calcium concentrations were determined 6, 12, 18 and 24 h after the operation. At given postoperation intervals the serum Na+, Cl- and total calcium concentrations in hepatectomized animals were lower than in the intact controls, while the K+ concentration was higher. In the second series of experiments, the rats were given infusions of physiological saline or Ringer solution at different intervals (1-6, 7-12, 1-12 and 1-24 h) after PH. Specific DNA activity in the liver, the hepatocyte mitotic index, the total DNA content of the liver and other indicators show that physiological saline infusions had an inhibitory, or at most a neutral effect on the initiation of liver regeneration, while the effect of the infusion of Ringer solution on the initiation of liver regeneration, in most of the given intervals, was indifferent. The regeneration response depends on the post-PH phase in which the solution is infused. PMID- 2531430 TI - Hippocampal afterdischarges and localization of the stimulating electrodes. AB - Electrically evoked hippocampal afterdischarges are used as a model of partial epileptic seizures with a complex symptomatology and for testing anticonvulsants and toxic substances. Stimulating electrodes were implanted in the dorsal hippocampus of 16 laboratory rats and when the animals had recovered they were stimulated (15-s series, 8 Hz, pulse length 1 ms) with a voltage double the threshold value for a tissue response. The following features of the evoked afterdischarge were evaluated: the duration of the first phase of the afterdischarge, the duration of the non-active interphase, the duration of the second phase and the number of "wet dog shakes" (a constant accompaniment of hippocampal afterdischarges). Localization of the electrodes in the CA1 (n = 7) and CA3 (n = 7) region of the hippocampus made no difference to these parameters and in both cases the measured and evaluated data were the same. The afterdischarges were always accompanied by a marked orientation reaction. The study showed that when using macroelectrodes to stimulate the dorsal hippocampus, their localization in the CA1/CA3 is not of critical importance. PMID- 2531431 TI - Proceedings of the Czechoslovak Physiological Society. Plzen, September 5-8, 1988. Abstracts. PMID- 2531432 TI - Free TRAM flap for breast reconstruction. PMID- 2531433 TI - Complications of TRAM flap breast reconstruction in obese patients. AB - The records of 82 women who had undergone unilateral breast reconstruction with the transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous (TRAM) flap at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center were analyzed to determine what effect obesity had on the rate of complications and the aesthetic quality of the ultimate result. The patients were divided into four groups--thin, average, moderately obese, and markedly obese--based on a weight/height index derived by dividing the weight in kilograms by the height in meters. In the thin group (13 patients), the complication rate was only 15.4 percent. In the average group (22 patients), the complication rate was 22.7 percent. In the moderately obese group (35 patients), the complication rate was 31.4 percent. In the markedly obese group (12 patients), the rate was 41.7 percent. Aesthetic results in the abdomen tended to be better in the nonobese group, but in the breast they correlated better with the number of revisions performed than with degree of obesity. The findings in this study suggest that the complication rate of TRAM flap breast reconstruction does increase in proportion to the degree of obesity. Surgeons can therefore avoid many of the complications from TRAM flap surgery by not operating on very obese patients. Reports of complication rates from different authors may vary in part depending on their mix of obese and nonobese patients. PMID- 2531434 TI - Morphologic alterations in rat bone marrow and spleen after neutron and gamma irradiation. AB - Morphologic alterations were studied in rat bone marrow and spleen after wholebody neutron irradiation (2 Gy dose). Neutron irradiation causes damage of hemapoietic organs changing their morphological structure already in the first hours after irradiation. The damage is further intensified reaching its maximum on 3rd day. Recovery of the hemopoiesis in the bone marrow and spleen begins approximately on 5th day being complete by 15th to 21st day after irradiation. Continuous gamma irradiation for 10.5 days following single neutron irradiation (total accumulated dose of 6 Gy, daily input dose of 0.574 Gy) results in prolonged inhibition of the hemopoietic activity until termination of the irradiation. Reparation of the damaged bone marrow is seen only on about day 5 after cessation of continuous irradiation; this implies that continuous irradiation following neutron irradiation delays the onset of reparative processes by approximately 5 days. In the spleen reparation of erythropoiesis begins already during the irradiation. PMID- 2531435 TI - Changes of the peripheral blood picture after combined neutron and gamma irradiation. AB - Changes of the peripheral blood picture of rats irradiated with a single dose of 2 Gy of neutrons were followed in comparison with a group of rats irradiated with a single dose of 2 Gy of neutrons followed by continuous gamma irradiation (daily dose rate 0.574 Gy, total dose 6 Gy). The decisive factor for the organism damage was the single 2 Gy neutron dose. The subsequent continuous gamma irradiation retarded the reparation of the peripheral blood elements. PMID- 2531436 TI - Serum proteins in rats after combined neutron and gamma irradiation. AB - Quantitative changes of some selected serum proteins in rats irradiated with a single dose of 2 Gy neutrons were compared with protein changes in rats irradiated with an equal single neutron dose and subsequent continuous gamma irradiation using daily dose rate of 0.574 Gy up to the total dose of 6 Gy. On the basis of the values obtained from the diagrams of two-dimensional immunoelectrophoresis it was found that both irradiations entailed approximately equal quantitative changes of the serum concentrations of the proteins followed. The differences found concerned time intervals of the adjustment of the changes produced. After neutron irradiation reparation of the serum albumin occurred on 14th day, of A1-globulin concentrations on 28th day and of haptoglobin on 90th day, yet after combined neutron and gamma irradiation reparation of the changes in albumin on 15th and A1-globulin occurred on 40th day and in haptoglobin only on 100th day after neutron irradiation. PMID- 2531437 TI - Laser angioplasty. AB - The current status of the use of lasers in the treatment of vascular disease, including the mechanism of laser angioplasty, is reviewed. The current clinical experience with various laser systems is discussed. Potential modifications of laser devices to improve their clinical utility are examined. PMID- 2531438 TI - Interventional catheterization in congenital heart disease. AB - The field of interventional catheterization in congenital heart disease has seen an explosion in application and scope over the past 10 years. In some lesions, such as valvar pulmonic stenosis, the transcatheter approach has replaced surgery as the treatment of choice. Applications currently considered experimental will no doubt become standard therapy as experience is gained with their use. Being able to avoid or postpone surgery has emotional, aesthetic, and practical advantages to patients and their families. The role of the catheter interventionist will continue to grow as new technologies such as fiberoptics, lasers, and miniaturized electromechanical devices are incorporated. PMID- 2531439 TI - [Form, size and function of the sports heart--differentiation from pathological findings]. AB - Dependent on the nature, intensity and scope of muscular exercise, regular athletic training can result in changes in the size and form of the heart, which can be recorded by radiologic and echocardiographic techniques. Brief anaerobic exercise and purely static forms of training (sprint, strength sports) do not produce substantial increases in the size of the heart, but a rotund heart shape with rounding of the cardiac tip and in some cases a discrete increase in the wall thickness of the ventricular myocardium is frequently observed. Dependent on the scope of the training and the intensity, aerobic, endurance-oriented training (endurance sports) can induce considerable enlargement of all cardiac chambers with a change in the cardiac configuration, which is most nearly comparable to combination mitral vitium. Comparison of physiological hypertrophy of the athletic heart with pathological forms of cardiac hypertrophy (such as cardiomyopathies) is in many cases not unequivocally possible with plain X-ray films, but it is usually successful with echocardiographic examination methods. PMID- 2531440 TI - [The mechanism of the dynein ATPase reaction and its implication to the ciliary motility]. PMID- 2531442 TI - [Molecular mechanism of flagellar and ciliary movements]. PMID- 2531441 TI - [Structure and function of kinesin in the adrenal medulla]. PMID- 2531443 TI - [Functional and distributional changes of MTOC's in centrosomes induced by antimitotic agents]. PMID- 2531444 TI - [Role of dynein in mitosis of mammalian cells]. PMID- 2531445 TI - Lipoprotein Lp(a): impact on atherosclerosis and immunochemical quantification. PMID- 2531446 TI - Living conditions of an adolescent population with Down's syndrome during a one year period. AB - The living conditions during 1985 of 43 probands with Down's syndrome and 55 controls in the Danish county of Aarhus were investigated. All patients and all controls were born January 1, 1965 to December 31, 1970. The mean age on census day (December 31, 1985) was 17.6 years for probands and 17.4 years for controls. On census day, 30 (70%) of the probands lived in private homes, and 13 (30%) were institutionalized. Controls lived in various places of residence, but none were institutionalized. All probands and all controls had a daily occupation during at least part of 1985. Twenty-seven (63%) probands and 25 (46%) controls attended evening classes during 1985. All but one proband, and all controls participated in recreation activities or entertainment during 1985. More than 75% of the probands went outside their permanent residence at least twice a week (school/work excluded). During 1985, 9 (60%) out of 15 probands institutionalized received an average of 6.5 visits; an average of 20.1 phone calls were made to the staff to inquire about the well being of 7 (47%) out of 15 probands. PMID- 2531447 TI - [Endoscopic resection of an orthotopic ureterocele, an alternative to open surgery]. AB - The paper reports on the results of the endoscopic treatment in 16 cases of orthotopic ureterocele, out of which 11 developed on a simplex ureter and 5 on the superior ureter of the pyeloureteral duplicity (ren duplex). In 6 patients the pseudocystic dilatation of the submucous ureter contained calculi. The endoscopic treatment consisted of: the ureterocele resection in 12 patients (in 6 of them it was associated with the extraction of the calculi with Lowsley's lithotryptic clip): the ureterocele incision in 3 cases; and the endoscopic resection of the intravesical sac, with nephrouretectomy of the dysfunctional pelvis and the respective ureter in one case. The results recorded showed urographic improvement in 14 patients and uroculture sterilization in 11 cases of 14 with postsurgical urinary infections. Only in one case, the ureterohydronephrosis advanced, requiring the subsequent ureter-bladder reimplantation. No case of bladder-ureter reflux following the endoscopic resection or incision of the orthotopic ureterocele was recorded. Endoscopic resection or incision is a simple and efficient method for treating small or middle orthotopic ureteroceles, if the superior urinary system is recoverable. The method is simple and with low risks, and it can be applied as first therapeutic time in all the cases, even in those in which the chance of the definitive solution is less probable, as in the secondary surgical time the classical surgical correction of the uretero-bladder junction can be used. PMID- 2531448 TI - [The direction and motivation for an evolution in methods of antiulcer surgery]. AB - A 23-year retroactive analysis of a heterogeneous series of observations with unfavourable tardy results after antiulcer surgeries showed that the most failures requiring a second surgery appear after large resections with gastrojejunal or gastroduodenal anastomosis and after vagotomies associated with gastric drainage. The most favourable tardy results followed the vagotomy associated with limited gastric resection (hemigastrectomy). This kind of intervention prevents the appearance of the ulcerous relapses and lowers significantly the incidence of the other type of post-surgical iatrogenic complications. The optimal protection against the ulcerous relapse given by vagotomy associated with hemigastrectomy permits a tactical adaptation of the intervention to the lesional and physiopathological characteristics of each case. PMID- 2531449 TI - [Juxtapapillary ulcer]. AB - The paper analysed the technical possibilities for the treatment of juxtapapillary ulcer exemplified by the clinical experience of 62 cases of recognized juxtapapillary ulcer. The authors insist on the technique of the duodenum dissection, on the way of passing the suture threads at the level of the papilla and on the importance of a correct drainage. PMID- 2531450 TI - [Nongynecologic abdominal emergencies during pregnancy]. AB - The paper reports on the authors' experience in the surgical emergency of a special category of patients: pregnant women with acute affections requiring surgery. The clinical aspects, sometimes deceptive, diagnosis difficulties and tactile and technical surgical attitudes are presented in detail. PMID- 2531451 TI - [Comparative clinico-evolutive and therapeutic aspects in cancer of the right and left colon]. AB - The paper reports on the casuistics of the colon cancer in the Clinic of Surgery of the "Grivita" Clinical Hospital, for 21 years (1966-1986) with emphasis on the situs peculiarities on the right and left colon. Whereas the left colon cancer (LCC) started in 32% of cases with subocclusive and occlusive syndromes having special implications on the treatment and prognosis, in the right colon cancer (RCC) only in 3.5% of cases the diagnosis was established in the stage of subocclusive syndrome. During surgery the metastatic adenopathy was met in 57% in LCC and only in 37% in RCC, and the hepatic metastases in 17.7% in LCC and in 10.9% in the RCC cases. The immediate postsurgery mortality was present in 12% of the LCC cases and in only 9.3% of the RCC cases. In the last 10 years of the period studied, the patients were periodically readmitted into the hospital, reinvestigated, and monochemotherapy with 5-fluorouracil was applied in sequential cures. In this last period, the survival at 5 years was of 25 (45.4%) in the 55 patients operated for RCC and of 41 (37.6%) in the 109 patients operated for LCC. PMID- 2531453 TI - [Mastitis with plasmacytes]. AB - The paper reports on a case of mastitis with plasmocytes, with a clinical picture of acute suppurative inflammation, in a 49-year-old woman. After establishing the diagnosis by histologic examination and alleviation of the acute phenomena, simple mastectomy was applied. The anatomopathological, clinical and therapeutical data of the mastitis are discussed. PMID- 2531452 TI - [Neglected peritonitis]. AB - The analysis of 130 cases of neglected peritonitis shows the seriousness of the disease, that increases considerably with the time elapsed from the onset of the disease till the admission into the hospital. The peritonitis may have different causes, the most frequent ones being acute appendicitis and perforating ulcer. The related affections, when present, amplify, modify or, on the contrary make the symptoms confused. When a neglected peritonitis is suspected, the surgery is required, followed by an intensive treatment afterwards. PMID- 2531455 TI - [Hemophiliac arthropathy of the elbow with bilateral luxation of the head of the radius. Hemophiliac arthropathy of the knee at the stage of arthrosis]. AB - The paper report on the case of a patient, who on the background of an A type hemophilia, suffering from hemophilic arthropathy, of the elbow and knee, presents bilateral luxation of the radius head. The major difficulties of the surgical treatment, the risks of the haemorrhagic complications and the long postsurgery evolution are discussed. PMID- 2531454 TI - [Hemorrhagic juxtapapillary duodenal ulcer with choledochal and Wirsung's duct stenosis and duodenojejunal fistula following biliojejunal en-Y diversion. The surgical solution]. AB - The paper reports on the clinical observation of a patient with bulbar duodenal ulcer placed in a juxtapapillary position due to a short bile duct, complicated with choledochal and Wirsung's stenosis and, finally haemorrhage and duodenojejunal fistula favoured by a gallbladder-jejunum diversion assembly. Three major surgeries, during 17 years, were required: cholecystectomy and choledochoduodenostomy for the choledochal stenosis induced by penetrating posterior bulbar ulcer; after 8 years, choledocholithotomy and gallbladder jejunum derivation the loop in Y, (Roux) for the choledochoduodenostomy stenosis with the local lithiasis of the CBP; after 9 years, the resection of the proximal segment of the anastomosed jejunal loop with CBP and gastric resection with ulcer exeresis, followed by restoration of the gallbladder-jejunum anastomosis, gastrojejunal anastomosis and reimplantation of Wirsung's duct in the duodenal stump for juxtapapillary duodenal ulcer complicated with haemorrhage, penetration into pancreas, perforation in the jejunal loop anastomosed preduodenally and stenosis of Wirsung's duct. The final therapeutic result is good and lasts in time. The paper discusses the duodenum-gallbladder-pancreas interrelationships in the juxtapapillary ulcers, drawing the attention on the possibility of forming a duodenojejunal fistula in the patients with gallbladder-jejunum derivations. PMID- 2531457 TI - [Hemodynamic reaction in the ultrarapid induction and protection realized with fentanyl]. AB - The hemodynamic response caused by the orthotracheal intubation and also the fentanyl-induced protection were determined in the patients with ultrarapid anesthetic induction. 60 patients were randomly distributed in 3 groups, each of 30 patients: group I, control, with sequential induction, group II, with ultrarapid induction, and group III with ultrarapid induction protected by fentanyl administration. In the patients in the groups II and III the hydrocortisone in the blood, taken 1 minute before induction and 3 minutes after intubation was dosed radioimmunologically. Measurement of the hemodynamic constants showed the increase of the systolic and diastolic AT, and of the pulse during laryngoscopy and in the first two minutes after intubation in all the patients investigated. The hemodynamic response was stronger in the lot with rapid induction, with important differences in comparison with the group with sequential induction. In the IIIrd group, the previous injection with fentanyl, 5 mcg/kg led to a less intense hemodynamic response to laryngoscopy and intubation, close to that of the control group. Likewise, the injection of the anesthetic was followed by an important decrease in the plasmatic hydrocortisone in comparison with the preinduction values. PMID- 2531456 TI - [Perforating ulcer of Meckel's diverticulum]. AB - The author presents a case of perforating ulcer of Meckel's diverticulum, with secondary generalized peritonitis in a young patient, admitted and operated for acute appendicitis. The therapy used is described and several semeiologic characteristics of the evolution and treatment of the case presented are discussed. PMID- 2531459 TI - Toxicity of trichothecenes, moniliformin, zearalenone/ol, griseofulvin, patulin, PR toxin and rubratoxin B on protozoan tetrahymena pyriformis. AB - The inhibitory effects of some fungal products from Fusarium, Trichothecium, Myrothecium and Penicillium were investigated on the protozoan Tetrahymena pyriformis. The dose of mycotoxin which decreased the protozoa growth by 50% in 24 h was defined as inhibitory dose 50 (ID50). The order of toxicity according to the ID50 values were: T-2 toxin greater than trichothecin greater than 4, 15 diacetylverrucarol greater than patulin greater than trichothecolone greater than verrucarol greater than zearalenone greater than PR toxin greater than 3 alpha acetyldiacetoxyscirpenol greater than zearalenol greater than griseofulvin greater than acetyl T-2 greater than iso T-2 greater than T-2 triol greater than scirpentriol greater than rubratoxin B greater than T-2 tetraol greater than moniliformin. In analogous pairs of trichothecenes their toxicities depended upon the substituents at certain positions of the molecules. Thus, the order of toxicity by the substituents was: at C3 position, H greater than OH greater than OAc [e.g., verrucarol (H at C3) greater than scirpentriol (OH at C3); T-2 toxin (OH at C3) greater than acetyl T-2 (OAc at C3); 4,15-diacetylverrucarol (H at C3) greater than 3 alpha-acetyldiacetoxyscirpenol (OAc at C3)]; at C4 position, OAc greater than OH, and isocrotonyl greater than OH [e.g., acetyl T-2 (OAc at C4) greater than iso T-2 (OH at C4); trichothecin (isocrotonoyl at C4) greater than trichothecolone (OH at C4)]; at C8 position, H greater than isovaleryl greater than OH [e.g., 3 alpha-acetyldiacetoxyscirpenol (H at C8) greater than acetyl T-2 (isovaleryl at C8); T-2 triol isovaleryl at C8) greater than T-2 tetraol (OH at C8); scirpentriol (H at C8) greater than T-2 tetraol (OH at C8)]. Among trichothecenes (without ester groups) with H and OH substituents, the toxicity was inversely related to the number of OH groups in the molecule: verrucarol (2 OHs) greater than scirpentriol (3 OHs) greater than T-2 tetraol (4 OHs). Zearalenone was about 3 times more toxic than its analogue zearalenol. The Tetrahymena cultures exposed 1 d to mycotoxins had protozoa counts/microliters inversely related to doses, and the % transmittance and pH values were directly related to doses. PMID- 2531460 TI - [The role of celioscopy in the diagnosis and treatment of acute salpingitis]. AB - Laparoscopy is a valuable diagnostic tool in salpingitis, which enables to recognize the severity of their evolution and their bacteriological etiology. However, it should not be advocated in all circumstances and it is necessary to specifically select the time when it will be the most useful. PMID- 2531458 TI - Pulmonary blood vessels and endocrine cells in subacute infantile mountain sickness. AB - A male infant of 16 months, of the Han race, died from subacute infantile mountain sickness in Lhasa (3600 m). At necropsy there was right ventricular hypertrophy secondary to muscularization of the pulmonary arteries and arterioles thought to have been induced by hypobaric hypoxia. In addition, there was intimal proliferation of myofibroblasts in the pulmonary arterioles, venules and veins. There were increased numbers within the bronchioles of pulmonary endocrine cells, containing calcitonin and bombesin, which could be related to hypoxia or trophic effects on the pulmonary vasculature. The relation of delayed effects of hypoxia to primary pulmonary hypertension is considered in this study. PMID- 2531461 TI - [Postoperative sonography in gastrectomized patients. Correlations with gastrografin swallow. Value in the detection of complications with special reference to anastomosis insufficiency]. AB - In a group of patients (n = 102) we compared post-total gastrectomy plus splenectomy the ranking of the postoperative Gastrografin swallow and of abdominal sonography as "bedside" methods. There was no correlation in respect of proof of anastomotic insufficiency on the one hand and detection of free abdominal fluid on the other. No other imaging method visualises morphological details of the anastomosis to the same degree as the Gastrografin swallow. The water-soluble contrast medium used so far appears to be in need of improvement in respect of "x-ray density", viscosity and osmolarity, the more so since the danger of aspiration is high in the postoperative, debilitated patient. The first ranking of sonography is due to its ability to detect free abdominal fluid and pathological findings in the abdominal walls. The postoperatively formed "neo compartments" in the peritoneal cavity in the upper abdomen render the classification of pathological findings as belonging to certain organ structures even more difficult. Ultrasound supplies important additional information in respect of the position of peritoneal drainages and also concerning the basal thoracic segments that are important in x-ray film of the thorax. Sonographic monitoring of the drainage of abscesses is possible. In the synopsis of both methods, further diagnostic measures (CT, leucocyte scan) are only rarely necessary (3% of the cases). PMID- 2531462 TI - What was wrong with the T-cell receptor gamma/delta heterodimer? Divergence of the T-cell receptor alpha/beta and gamma/delta heterodimers. PMID- 2531463 TI - Persistent superphosphorylation of leukosialin (CD43) in activated T cells and in tumour cell lines. AB - CD43 (leukosialin) is a highly sialylated, single-chain molecule expressed on most human leucocytes. Regulatory signals appear to be transduced through the molecule as suggested by the ability of anti-CD43 antibodies to induce aggregation and proliferation of T cells and to enhance B-cell proliferation and natural killer cell activity. Activation of protein kinases is an essential event in signal transduction. We were therefore interested to study whether CD43 may function as a substrate for protein kinases during mitogenic activation of lymphocytes. We show that CD43 was rapidly superphosphorylated (within minutes) on serine residues following addition of phorbol ester (PMA) to peripheral blood lymphocytes. PMA treatment of the cells was not followed by rapid down-regulation of CD43. Activation of the lymphocytes by concanavalin A or anti-CD3 antibodies (OKT-3) also resulted in superphosphorylation of CD43. However, the phosphorylation was delayed as compared to that induced by PMA and was detected 3 4 h after the addition of the reagents. A plateau was reached after 24-48 h of stimulation. Interestingly, the high level of phosphorylation of CD43 was maintained in long-term cultures of T cells activated by various means. Furthermore, CD43 was found to be constitutively superphosphorylated (on serine and tyrosine) in continuously growing cell lines of T, B, and non-lymphoid origin. Taken together, the results suggest that CD43 has an important role during both early and late phases of T-cell activation and that modulation of its biochemical properties by protein kinases may be associated with progression through the cell cycle and with cellular growth. PMID- 2531464 TI - Activation-driven programmed cell death and T cell receptor zeta eta expression. AB - Activation of spontaneously dividing T cell hybridomas induces interleukin-2 (IL 2) production, a cell cycle block, and programmed cell death. T cell hybridomas that express the T cell antigen receptor (TCR) zeta homodimer (zeta 2), but not the TCR zeta eta heterodimer, were studied. The zeta eta- cells produced little or no inositol phosphates (IP) when stimulated with antigen. In most cases the hydrolysis of phosphoinositides was also impaired after stimulation with antibody to CD3, although one zeta eta- cell produced normal concentrations of IP. The zeta eta- cells slowed their growth and secreted IL-2 in response to both stimuli. However, the zeta eta- cells did not die after activation with antigen. Since activated thymocytes also undergo programmed cell death, these results may have important implications for the role of the zeta eta.TCR in negative selection. PMID- 2531465 TI - Second cytotoxic pathway of diphtheria toxin suggested by nuclease activity. AB - Diphtheria toxin (DTx) provokes extensive internucleosomal degradation of DNA before cell lysis. The possibility that DNA cleavage stems from direct chromosomal attack by intracellular toxin molecules was tested by in vitro assays for a DTx-associated nuclease activity. DTx incubated with DNA in solution or in a DNA-gel assay showed Ca2+- and Mg2+-stimulated nuclease activity. This activity proved susceptible to inhibition by specific antitoxin and migrated with fragment A of the toxin. Assays in which supercoiled double-stranded DNA was used revealed rapid endonucleolytic attack. Discovery of a DTx-associated nuclease activity lends support to the model that DTx-induced cell lysis is not a simple consequence of protein synthesis inhibition. PMID- 2531467 TI - Down's syndrome--factors influencing its incidence. PMID- 2531466 TI - Generation of a large combinatorial library of the immunoglobulin repertoire in phage lambda. AB - A novel bacteriophage lambda vector system was used to express in Escherichia coli a combinatorial library of Fab fragments of the mouse antibody repertoire. The system allows rapid and easy identification of monoclonal Fab fragments in a form suitable for genetic manipulation. It was possible to generate, in 2 weeks, large numbers of monoclonal Fab fragments against a transition state analog hapten. The methods described may supersede present-day hybridoma technology and facilitate the production of catalytic and other antibodies. PMID- 2531468 TI - Incidence of Down's syndrome in a large Malaysian maternity hospital over an 18 month period. AB - Over an 18 month period, 34,522 livebirths were delivered in the Maternity Hospital, Kuala Lumpur. 36 of them had Down's Syndrome. Based on our findings, the incidence of Down's syndrome among the Malaysian babies born in this hospital was 1:959 livebirths. According to racial distributions, the incidence among Malay was 1:981 livebirths, Chinese 1:940 livebirths, and Indian 1:860 livebirths. Our incidence was lower than those from the Western populations. Unlike others' studies, there was also a female preponderance of Down's syndrome among the Malaysian babies. PMID- 2531470 TI - Treatment of allergic adverse drug reactions. AB - Allergic adverse drug reactions are unpredictable and dose-independent. The cellular events which comprise an allergic reaction cannot be effectively altered until we understand how, for instance, the provoking drug forms an immunoglobulin like factor which releases chemical mediators of inflammation from effector cells, or how these mediators act on target tissues. Nor do we know how and why different patterns of drug allergy vary over time. The post hoc treatment of reactions is largely empirical and supportive, and depends on the type of reaction and its clinical setting. The treatment of acute severe reactions like analphylaxis include resuscitating the patient, ensuring airway patency, injecting adrenaline i.m., setting up an i.v. infusion of a plasma expander, and injecting an anti-histamine and hydrocortisone. After anaphylaxis the vital signs, the ECG, and respiratory function should be monitored in the intensive care unit; supportive drugs may be needed for 72 hours. Some other systemic disorders induced by allergic drug reactions are well defined, but their treatment is either nonspecific or highly specialised. Because disease and death due to drug allergy are becoming more frequent, clinicians must try to limit them by recording careful drug histories, using radiocontrast agents only when necessary, and prescribing drugs only when benefit will probably exceed risk. Doctors should also advise their patients against the misuse of drugs. PMID- 2531469 TI - An approach to the evaluation and documentation of adverse drug reaction. AB - This paper reviews an approach to the evaluation and documentation of suspected adverse drug reaction (ADR). I propose an algorithm for the evaluation of suspected ADR. I recommend that the adverse drug reaction scoring system(ASS) or the adverse drug reactions probability scale(APS) be used when evaluating suspected ADR. In these two scoring systems, points are allotted according to response to a series of questions on events relating to the clinical manifestations of the suspected ADR. Depending on the total points scored the probability of the suspected ADR are classified as definite, probable, possible and unlikely. When a patient's suspected ADR is classified as definite, then no further investigation is necessary. The patient should be considered sensitive to the drug. In a case where the suspected ADR is classified as probable or possible then further investigations should be considered to confirm the diagnosis. If the nature of ADR is life threatening only in-vitro test should be done. If the nature of ADR is not life threatening, in-vivo and oral provocative test dosing may be considered. It should be considered if the suspected drug in question cannot be substituted and when it is very frequently prescribed. PMID- 2531471 TI - Permanent disability in black mineworkers. A critical analysis. AB - Two-thirds of all occupational permanent disabilities among black workers in South Africa occur in the mining industry. Comparison of compensated permanent disability cases shows that the incidence of permanent disability among black mineworkers is several times higher than that in any other South African industry. Most permanent disabilities sustained in mining fall into the category of 1-5% disability. Trends in the incidence of permanent disability are examined and compensation for disabled black mineworkers is investigated. The basis of workers' compensation legislation involves workers giving up their common-law right to litigate for losses owing to occupational injuries (including pain and suffering) in exchange for guaranteed protection against income losses. However, the evidence suggests that compensation generally does not redress income loss. Most disabled black miners receive compensation payments that are lower than poverty datum levels and high rates of inflation rapidly erode their real value. Since many black workers are repatriated after a disabling accident, the issue of employment becomes crucial. The problems highlighted suggest that compensation legislation requires reform to ameliorate the difficulties faced by disabled black miners and recommendations are made. PMID- 2531472 TI - Collateral circulatory development in skeletal muscle. AB - The arterial collateral anastomoses in rectus abdominis of the dog are employed as an animal model. The dynamic changes of collateral channels have been uncovered during roestablishment of collateral circulation. The experimental results display the 3 morphological characters, calibre dilatation, cell proliferation, and vessel reconstruction, at different time intervals in the collateral development. It provides evidence that some useful programme can be added to get a more effective collateral circulatory function in clinical practice. PMID- 2531474 TI - [A method for the clinical discussion of patients with students at a department for advanced training of physicians]. PMID- 2531473 TI - [The results of 5 years' use of a method for heparin cryoprecipitation of plasma proteins (selective plasmapheresis) in patients with an immune-complex pathology]. AB - The paper treats the results of the 5-year use of plasma protein heparin cryoprecipitation (selective plasmapheresis) (SPA) in patients with immune complex pathology. The method consists in the removal of fibronectin and bound complement components, cryoglobulins, cryofibrinogen, circulating immune complexes (CIC), and other gross-dispersed proteins in the presence of heparin in the cold. The SPA was applied to 122 patients with immune complex diseases and syndromes. Altogether 1279 procedures were carried out. The method turned out effective in 80% of patients with hemorrhagic vasculitis, systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and other types of vasculitis. The changes in the blood serum concentration of immune complexes correlated with the time course of changes in the clinical and laboratory parameters. The SPA efficacy was in agreement with the reduction in the level of immune complexes. Provided 2-3 procedures were carried out a week, the lowering of the level of immune complexes and other laboratory parameters marking the degree of inflammation could be seen by procedures 4-6. Therefore, to attain a stable clinical effect, its is necessary to perform not less than 6 SPA procedures. It has been demonstrated that SPA can be used an unlimited number of times, for the use of the method does not entail the development of plasma protein deficiency. This circumstance is of paramount importance for the treatment of chronic relapsing immune complex diseases. PMID- 2531476 TI - [The characteristics and results of rehabilitative treatment in patients with acute protracted and recurrent diseases of the bronchi and lungs at a specialized department]. PMID- 2531475 TI - [Nifedipine in the treatment of hypertension. An echocardiographic assessment of the hemodynamic effects]. AB - As many as 32 patients with moderate arterial hypertension were examined. According to unidimensional echocardiography, the improvement of early diastolic filling of the hypertrophied left ventricle of the heart was recorded during 4 weeks of the treatment with nifedipine, a dihydropyridine blocker of calcium channels. The favourable effect on diastolic filling function was combined with an efficient control over arterial pressure which was determined by a decrease in the systemic vascular resistance. Nifedipine did not produce any depression of contractile and pump functions of the heart. PMID- 2531477 TI - [The effect of the inhalation of a single atrovent dose on pulmonary ventilation function and respiratory mechanics in patients with chronic obstructive bronchitis]. AB - A study was made of the action of inhalation of a single atrovent dose in 20 patients with chronic obstructive bronchitis. All the patients demonstrated a considerable abatement or disappearance of dyspnea, and a reduction of the number of dry rales. The vital capacity of the lungs, the volume of forced expiration, maximal pulmonary ventilation, MOCmax, MOC50, and MOC75 substantially increased. The respiratory work diminished on the average by 32.3% primarily due to the lessening of non-elastic lung resistance. The rise of pulmonary static extensibility and reduction of pulmonary elastic propulsion were recorded. In patients with and without clinical signs of bronchospasm, the action of atrovent was identical. PMID- 2531478 TI - Atrial natriuretic polypeptide (ANP) as protective agent of renal ischemia. AB - The effect of atrial natriuretic polypeptide (ANP) on hemodynamics and renal function was evaluated after the reconstructive surgery of the left renal artery in a patient with renovascular hypertension secondary to Takayasu's arteritis. The reconstructive surgery was done using the femoral artery, since we were unable to obtain adequate vein segments to fit the renal artery. The femoral artery was reconstructed by her saphenous vein segments. After 30 min of the aortorenal bypass operation, alpha-human ANP (alpha-hANP) was infused intravenously for 10 min at a rate of 0.1 microgram/kg/min. Although total peripheral resistance was decreased by alpha-hANP infusion, blood pressure was not changed because of the increased cardiac output. Glomerular filtration rate was increased markedly with concomitant increase in urine volume and urinary excretions of sodium, potassium and phosphate. Fractional excretions of water and sodium were not changed, but fractional excretion of phosphate and potassium clearance were increased. Thus, the infusion of alpha-hANP markedly improved the renal function of the ischemic kidney by the reconstructive surgery of the renal artery, suggesting that alpha-hANP seems clinically applicable as a protective agent in renal ischemia at renovascular surgery as well as the renal transplantation. PMID- 2531479 TI - Recanalization of experimental thrombotic arterial occlusion by radiofrequency thermal angioplasty: an angioscopic observation. AB - The efficacy of radiofrequency (RF) angioplasty for recanalization of arterial thrombosis was assessed angioscopically in five dogs. A thrombus was induced by balloon injury of the left femoral artery. Within two hr, thrombi led to total occlusion of the artery in three dogs, subtotal occlusion in one, and about 70% obstruction in one. A metal-tipped catheter, with a tip size of 2.0 mm x 5.7 mm, was advanced into the thrombus and RF at 13.56 MHz was delivered repeatedly with gradually increased energies. The arterial lumina were recanalized or enlarged in all dogs. The thrombus surface had a shaggy appearance, and were dark (charring), or mixed dark and white in color. There were relatively large variations in the energies required; 140 J in one, 200 J in two and 250 J in two. The present results suggest that thrombotic arterial occlusion, such as acute occlusion complicating balloon angioplasty, can be treated with RF thermal angioplasty. Angioscopy provided detailed information about thrombus surfaces. The variations in required energies indicate the inability to control the thermal effect by energy settings alone. A more sophisticated method such as measurement of tip temperature will be able to overcome this difficulty. PMID- 2531480 TI - Serum content of zinc and vitamin C in severely handicapped children. AB - As fracture is known to occur more easily in severely handicapped children (SHC), bone mineral content, serum zinc level and serum vitamin C level were determined in 65 SHC. These parameters were found to be greatly reduced in all patients. The decreases in zinc and vitamin C in the serum appeared to be associated with that in bone mineral content. Supplements of zinc and vitamin C may be important to decrease the chance of fracture due to diminished bone mineral content in SHC. PMID- 2531481 TI - Pregnenolone, dehydroepiandrosterone, and their sulfate and fatty acid esters in the rat brain. AB - The rat brain contains large amounts of pregnenolone (P) and dehydroepiandrosterone (D) arising from local biosynthetic pathways. We have devised a procedure for the measurement of both "neurosteroids" either unconjugated or released from their sulfate (S) or fatty acid (L) esters. The measurements were performed at the acrophase of the circadian variation of neurosteroids, and confirmed the large accumulation of P (25 +/- 8 ng/g, mean +/- SD) and of PS (19 +/- 6 ng/g) and DS (2.1 +/- 0.5 ng/g) in the brain of adult male rats. We found that fatty acid esters constitute the major species of neurosteroids in brain (PL 46 +/- 14, and DL 36 +/- 7 ng/g, in adult males). The levels of P and DS were increased by daily injection of vehicle to intact males, whereas castration, without or with testosterone or estradiol supplementation (2 mg daily for 7 days), did not produce a significant change of neurosteroids concentrations. Measurements of neurosteroids had not been previously reported in cyclic females. The levels of P, PL, and DS were identical in proestrous females and in intact males, whereas PS (26 +/- 6 ng/g) and DL (50 +/- 16 ng/g) were increased in females. Compared to proestrous females, diestrous females had lower levels of PS (19 +/- 6 ng/g), DS (1.7 +/- 0.4 ng/g), and PL (43 +/- 19 ng/g). These differences suggested a modulatory role of ovarian secretions on the metabolism of neurosteroids. PMID- 2531482 TI - Laser balloon molds and welds arteries. PMID- 2531483 TI - [The effect of nicotinamide on the activity of the glutathione- glutathione reductase system in subcellular fractions of regenerating rat liver]. AB - Experiments on white rats have shown that growth rates of the glutathione reductase activity and reduced glutathione concentration in the cytoplasmic fraction of the generating liver tissue and especially in the mitochondrial one are more pronounced with an increase of the nicotinamide dose from 50 mg/kg to 150 mg/kg, than after administration of nicotinamide in a dose of 300 mg/kg. Higher doses of nicotinamide (500 mg/kg) produce less pronounced changes in these parameters. PMID- 2531484 TI - [Hepatitis B--who should be and who must be vaccinated?]. PMID- 2531485 TI - [Immune prophylaxis against hepatitis B virus]. AB - Hepatitis-B infections can be prevented by vaccination. Although a safe and efficacious plasma-derived vaccine has been available in Denmark since 1983, only approximately 7,000 persons have been vaccinated. This was among other things due to an unwarranted suspicion that the vaccine could harbour HIV. A new hepatitis B vaccine produced by a recombinant yeast cell is without this stigma and the vaccine is cheaper. It is now time for an assessment of hepatitis B vaccination of employees and intensification of vaccination programs for high-risk persons. Screening procedures, vaccination schedules, efficacy studies and follow up programs are reviewed. Prospectives for new hepatitis B vaccines are described. PMID- 2531486 TI - [Hepatitis B prevention after occupational exposure]. AB - The course of a programme for protection from hepatitis B after occupational exposure is assessed. Passive/active prophylaxis from hepatitis B was offered to 51 persons but only 28% completed the entire regimen. The programme for vaccination of staff prior to exposure must be intensified and not only this programme but also the protective programme after exposure must include reminders to individuals who do not follow the programme. PMID- 2531487 TI - [Quality of life, health and social contacts in elderly people unable to go out of-doors]. AB - The study includes 1,261 individuals aged 70-95 years old selected at random in four Danish communes with varying degree of urbanization. In October-November, 1986 they answered a mailed questionnaire on health and, social situation, quality of life, and utilization of health and social services. The object of the article is to describe elderly persons with reduced ability to leave their homes. The proportion with difficulty in leaving their home is 13% and 7% need help to get outdoors. The proportion with mobility problems is larger among women and increases with increasing age. Mobility is not associated with urbanization, household composition, housing situation, floor, stairs and social class. Mobility problems are more frequent among elderly with the lowest incomes and the most extensive health problems. Mobility problems are associated with reduced quality of life, negative self-esteem reduced social network and poor "means of communication" (hearing and sight). Elderly persons with mobility problems use more health and social services than those with unrestricted mobility. However, the use of services from the primary health services are more frequent among those who can get outdoors with some difficulty than among those who cannot get outdoors on their own. Lack of engagement toward the problems of this group of elderly must be anticipated to lead to great health and social requirements in this group in the years to come. PMID- 2531488 TI - [Morbidity structure of malignant neoformations of the upper respiratory tract in Byelorussia]. PMID- 2531489 TI - Comparative study of early-season prophylaxis using ivermectin with lungworm vaccination in the control of parasitic bronchitis and gastroenteritis in cattle. AB - Twenty-four first-season calves were randomly allocated to three similar groups (1-non-treated controls; 2 - vaccinated against lungworm; 3 - treated with ivermectin 21, 56 and 91 days after turnout) and set-stocked on separate pastures. Parasitic bronchitis became evident in the controls and signs of parasitic gastroenteritis were seen later in the vaccinates, but the ivermectin treated calves remained healthy. After autumn housing, all were kept as a single group for the winter. The following summer, six of the ivermectin-treated animals and their matching vaccinates were grazed together, without further prophylaxis, along with six first-season calves. The latter displayed evidence of mild but debilitating pulmonary and gastrointestinal parasitic disease while both groups of yearlings remained healthy (with the exception of one diarrhoeic vaccinate). Thus, the immune status of the ivermectin-treated animals appeared to be comparable to that of the vaccinates. This conclusion was supported by parasitological observations and by artificial challenge at the end of the second grazing season. PMID- 2531490 TI - Production and distribution of immunoglobulin-bearing cells in the intestine of young pigs infected with Ascaris suum. AB - Pigs of 10 days-1 month old were orally infected with eggs of Ascaris suum at different rates and inoculation schedules. Histological sections from various parts of the small intestines were prepared to observe the production and localization of immunoglobulin-bearing cells. Fluorescent antibody and immunoperoxidase staining methods were used to determine the number of IgM-, IgA- and IgG-producing plasma cells in the intestinal lamina propria. Significant increases in immunoglobulin-bearing cells were observed in those pigs which received single inoculations of A. suum eggs. Pigs infected every 2,4,8 and 10 days with 10,000-20,000 embryonated eggs showed numerical increases in IgM bearing cells. Increases in IgA-bearing cells were noted in pigs which received the higher number of eggs every 8-10 days. Higher concentrations of IgA- and IgM bearing cells were observed in the jejunal mucosa of infected pigs as compared to those in the duodenum and ileum. PMID- 2531491 TI - Isolation and partial characterisation of a potentially pathogenic cysteine proteinase from adult Dictyocaulus viviparus. AB - Dictyocaulus viviparus adult worms feed on pulmonary tissues and cause significant pathology in the bovine host. In this report, acidic extracts of these organisms were examined for cysteine proteinase activity. A soluble thiol dependent proteinase with native molecular weight of approximately 25 kDa was isolated and partially purified. This enzyme had maximal activity at acidic pH and showed inhibitor susceptibilities similar to the vertebrate acidic cysteine proteinases. When stored at 4 degrees C, it was stable at pH 5.0 for at least 10 days and at pH 7.0 for at least 24 h. The D. viviparus cysteine proteinase was capable of degrading type I collagen and hemoglobin. It is suggested that this enzyme may be involved in the nutrition of this parasite and/or have the potential to contribute to bronchial pathology in cattle. PMID- 2531492 TI - [An important reserve in improving student training]. PMID- 2531493 TI - [The methodology for systems research on the factor of water in an earthquake zone]. PMID- 2531494 TI - [The choice of anesthesia and characteristics of intensive therapy in urgent and emergency surgery of earthquake victims]. PMID- 2531495 TI - [Medics of the 5th Guards Tank Army in the Byelorussian Offensive Operation (on the 45th anniversary of the Operation)]. PMID- 2531496 TI - [The blood count of regulatory T-lymphocyte subpopulations in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis]. AB - Important aspects are discussed of clinical evaluation of regulatory subpopulations of T-lymphocytes (T-helpers and T-suppressors) in the blood of patients with pulmonary tuberculosis. Imbalance of these subpopulations in the patients with normal values of E-REG BTR with PHA allows to establish immunity disorders in supplementary group of patients. Subpopulation imbalance is an unfavourable prognostic sign and one of indications to immunomodulating therapy. PMID- 2531497 TI - [Circulation of the influenza A virus of H13 serosubtype among seagulls in the Northern Caspian (1979-1985)]. AB - The results of seven-year ecologo-virological studies (1979-1985) of Laridae colonies on the island Zhemchuzhnyi, northern Kaspian Sea, showed annual isolation of influenza A viruses. Altogether, 95 hemagglutinating agent have been isolated. Strains with 4 different combinations of surface antigens were identified: H5N2, H13N2, H13N3, H13N6. The possibility of transovarial transmission is confirmed by the fact of isolation of an influenza virus strain A/black-headed herring gull/Astrakhan/458/85 (H13N6) from a nestling having no contacts with the environment. Simultaneous circulation of influenza A viruses (in 1983--H13N2 and H13N6, in 1985.--H13N3 and H13N6) and the presence in the virion of neuraminidase of human influenza virus (N2) allow to consider the isolates to be natural recombinants. PMID- 2531498 TI - [Characteristics of viral hepatitis non-A, non-B with a fecal-oral mechanism of transmission of the infection in southern Uzbekistan]. AB - An increase in the incidence of viral hepatitis was observed in the autumn of 1986 in one of the districts of southern Uzbekistan. The clinico-epidemiological data and highly sensitive tests for hepatitis A (HA) and B (HB) markers showed the absence of HB infection in most of the patients and prevalence of HA among children. In 68.7% of the patients, non-A-non-B hepatitis with fecal-oral mechanism of transmission of the infection was diagnosed. The bulk of HnAnB patients consisted of adults of 20-29 years. Pregnant women experience severe forms of the disease. Solid-phase enzyme-immunoassays and immune electron microscopy revealed in one fecal specimen from patients the antigen of non-A-non B hepatitis serologically identical to that causing a rise in the incidence in northern Turkmenia in 1984-1985. PMID- 2531499 TI - [Studies on the adherent factors of Pseudomonas aeruginosa with bioluminescence]. AB - A bioluminescence method was established for quantifying the adhesion of P. aeruginosa to polystyrene and the adherent components were investigated. The results indicated that the slime polysaccharide (SPS) is an important adherent factor of some slime strains of P. aeruginosa. The adhered amount of washed slime strains could be increased by pre-coating of polystyrene with SPS obtained from PA3. The activity of PA3SPS could be inhibited by anti-PA3SPS antiserum and blocked by N-acetylglucosamine. PMID- 2531501 TI - [New specialty drugs registered in Austria. Supressin]. PMID- 2531500 TI - Therapeutic options in treating acute myocardial infarction. AB - These discussions are selected from the weekly staff conferences in the Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco. Taken from transcriptions, they are prepared by Homer A. Boushey, MD, Professor of Medicine, under the direction of Lloyd H. Smith, Jr, MD, Professor of Medicine and Associate Dean in the School of Medicine. Requests for reprints should be sent to the Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA 94143. PMID- 2531503 TI - [The clinical picture and diagnosis of allergic drug exanthemas]. PMID- 2531502 TI - [Modern technical examination and treatment procedures in pediatric surgical gastroenterology]. PMID- 2531504 TI - [Studies of dermatologic fitness in applicants for medical specialty occupations]. AB - The considerable rate of professional hand eczema in medical personnel emphasizes the necessity of practicable methods for early diagnosis of risk of eczema. A dermatologically-oriented programme of examination and fitness criteria for applicants for what are known here as wet trades has been worked out with a view to helping combat occupational diseases in the GDR. Among other factors it was possible to reduce annual morbidity of occupational skin disease in county Gera. PMID- 2531505 TI - [Thorotrastosis--a rare disease picture in internal medicine]. AB - The report deals with the late effects following administration of thorotrast in a 63-year-old patient: liver cirrhosis developed after application of thorotrast 25 years ago. The clinical findings are described and attention is drawn to the relevance of this disease at present time. The authors refer to the significance of the routine X-ray diagnosis and of the CT for finding a diagnosis with thorotrastosis. PMID- 2531506 TI - [Neovascularization of the myocutaneous rectus abdominis island flap in the rat]. AB - The neovascularisation was investigated in 51 rectus abdominis myocutaneous island flaps (1.5 x 3.0 cm) in rats (Uje: WIST) following ligation of the pedicle vessels (superior epigastric artery and vein) without and with incision of the cranial flap border. The ligation was done on the 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 7th postoperative day. The efficiency of the neovascularisation was estimated quantitatively on the 3rd, 5th, and 7th day after vascular ligation by measurement of the necrotic flap tissue. The findings are expressed in percent of the whole flap area. Vascular pedicle ligation on the 3rd or 4th postoperative day caused an average necrosis rate of 98% and 84% respectively. No flap survived in these experimental group. In case of pedicle vessel occlusion on the 5th postoperative day without incision of the cranial flap border all myocutaneous flaps survived, partly with focal loss of the epidermis. Placing the ligation after incision of the flap border on the 5th day an average necrosis rate of 34% was found, only 5 out of 11 flaps survived. All flaps (n = 9) remained viable following vascular pedicle ligation on the 7th postoperative day. It seems necessary to observe myocutaneous flaps carefully until the 14th postoperative day, because tissue damages due to vascular pedicle occlusion on the 4th day may become visible not before the 10th or 11th postoperative day. Opening of the myocutaneous flap borders between the 5th and 7th postoperative day should be avoided. PMID- 2531507 TI - [Acne fulminans following use of anabolic steroids]. AB - The main stimulant for the use of anabolic agents by competitive athletes is their effect on the quantity, structure, and power of the muscles, although an actual increase in efficiency is most doubtful. This effect has to be purchased with a number of possible side effects including acne or acneiform lesions - an interesting aspect from the dermatologic point of view, since androgens may have an etiopathogenetic significance in this disease. We report on a 23-year-old male patient (competitive javelin thrower) who developed acne fulminans while using anabolics and vitamin B preparations. The temporal correlation between the onset of the skin lesions and the intake of the drugs suggests that the drugs - either alone or in combination - may be responsible for the skin eruptions. We discuss the case in detail referring to the literature. PMID- 2531508 TI - [A case of erythrokeratodermia figurata variabilis successfully treated with tigason]. AB - We report on a young man having suffered from infiltrated, scaly, hyperkeratotic, erythematous skin eruptions since his birth, varying in its course. Histologic examination revealed erythrokeratodermia. Therapy with Etretinate led to rapid regression; on keeping the maintenance dose for a year, we did not observe any recurrences. Light and electron microscopical investigations were carried out both before and 7 weeks after treatment. PMID- 2531509 TI - Coronary artery spasm complicating PTCA: role of intracoronary nitroglycerin. AB - During PTCA intracoronary (ic) nitroglycerin is used in our institution only in cases of suspected coronary artery spasm. In order to estimate the incidence of true spasm, records from 1400 consecutive PTCA procedures were retrospectively reviewed for use of ic nitroglycerin. For each of the 376 procedures where ic nitroglycerin was used, angiograms were reviewed to determine whether spasm had been present or whether there was some other complicating problem which had mimicked spasm. In 191 procedures (51%), spasm had apparently occurred. In 178 procedures (47%), there was evidence for dissection rather than spasm. Seven procedures (2%) had evidence for neither spasm nor dissection. These included three cases of guiding catheter injury, two procedures where unsuspected distal disease was found after opening of total occlusions, and one case each of branch vessel occlusion and no re-flow phenomenon. Spasm was more common during right coronary PTCA. It frequently occurred in areas remote from the PTCA site. In every instance spasm was reversed following administration of one or more boluses of ic nitroglycerin. On the basis of these data, coronary artery spasm occurs in 14% of PTCA procedures. PMID- 2531510 TI - [Long-term effect of organic nitrates in angina pectoris: dependence on the form of administration and mode of stress]. AB - ISDN (standard release formulation) 40 mg administered 6 times daily (= 240 mg) remained effective during a 4-week treatment of patients with stable angina in terms of decreasing anginal attacks and reducing ischemic ST segment depression at stress testing in the upright position (step climbing test). The sustained antianginal activity is explained by fluctuating plasma levels, provided by rapid drug release from the standard formulation, short administration intervals and an 7-hour-night pause. When comparing acute and chronic antianginal activity of ISDN (40 mg) administered 4 times daily with regard to the type of stress testing it became evident that a marked attenuation of antiischemic activity (-35%; p less than 0.01) occurred in the supine (bicycle ergometry) but not in the upright (step climbing test) position. The most probable explanation for the significant attenuation of efficacy in the supine position is marked blood redistribution into central compartments with increase of cardiac filling pressures during chronic therapy. Rapid development of tolerance both to the hemodynamic and antiischemic effects of glycerol trinitrate within 24 hours could be shown during intravenous administration (3 mg/h) in patients with stable angina. It is concluded that the antiischemic effects of oral ISDN (standard release formulation) administered 4-6 times daily is preserved during long-term therapy due to fluctuating plasma levels. Nitrate therapy providing constant doses over time (e.g. I.V. nitroglycerin) leads to a rapid attenuation of efficacy most probably due to counter regulatory mechanisms. PMID- 2531511 TI - Ca2+ transport in muscle. A study of the Ca2+-transport ATPases in smooth muscle. AB - The Ca2+-transport ATPases of smooth muscle were studied. It was concluded that smooth muscle expresses at least two different Ca2+-transport ATPases. One is present in the plasma membrane with an Mr of 140-130 kDa it is stimulated by calmodulin and it could be purified by affinity chromatography on immobilized calmodulin. This ATPase could be reconstituted in artificial membrane vesicles that were then able to catalyze an ATP-dependent Ca2+-uptake. This Ca2+-transport ATPase could also be stimulated by partial proteolysis and by negatively charged phospholipids. Polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies were found to inhibit this ATPase and concomitantly the Ca2+-transport specifically in plasma membranes and not in the endoplasmic reticulum. This plasma-membrane Ca2+ pump from smooth muscle is controlled by cGMP via phosphorylation of a phosphatidylinositol kinase which phosphorylates phosphatidylinositol to phosphatidylinositol-monophosphate for which a specific binding site exists on the Ca2+-transport ATPase. The catalytic phosphoprotein intermediate of this ATPase can be easily demonstrated and this forms a highly sensitive method to detect the presence of the ATPase in different smooth muscles and even in non-muscle sources as the kidney. A second type of Ca2+ pump with an Mr of 100 kDa is found in smooth-muscle endoplasmic reticulum. By means of its catalytic phosphointermediate this pump could be characterized as similar to the cardiac/slow muscle isoform of the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ pumps, but different from the fast skeletal-muscle isoform. Immunological studies confirmed this conclusion. This endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ pump in smooth muscle is regulated by cAMP and cGMP via phosphorylation of phospholamban. Once Ca2+ is accumulated in the lumen of the endoplasmic reticulum, it can be bound to calsequestrin. The calsequestrin of smooth muscle appears to be a similar isoform as that found in cardiac muscle. The Ca2+ transport ATPases were found to be inhibited by fluoroaluminate complexes without the involvement of GTP-binding proteins. PMID- 2531512 TI - [Occupational phytodermatoses and their prevention]. AB - The growing employment of the population in agriculture and wide use of plants in industry lead to an increase in the incidence rate of phytodermatoses. The strongest allergens are Ambrosia and Artemisia pollen, as well as exotic trees wood. Measures for the prevention of occupational phytodermatoses are an integral part of the complex program for the improvement of specialized medical care in the rural regions. Patients suffering from occupational phytodermatoses should be subjected to regular check-ups. PMID- 2531513 TI - [Characteristics of the course of psoriasis in World War II disabled veterans with a history of craniocerebral trauma]. AB - The contribution of a craniocerebral injury (CCI) to the clinical picture of psoriasis in 53 invalids of the Great Patriotic War is discussed. In remote periods after CCI the patients with psoriasis develop disorders of the adaptation and trophic function of the nervous system associated with metabolism impairments and early atherosclerosis. The diversity of clinical symptoms because of a number of concomitant diseases favors the development of grave clinical manifestations of the dermatosis, which fact calls for more thorough examinations of this patient population, for a differentiated approach to the choice of optimal therapy, and for active prophylactic check-ups. PMID- 2531514 TI - [The rehabilitation of children with neurodermatitis by using local natural conditions]. AB - Local natural factors, used at a seasonal hospital, are a highly effective means of rehabilitation therapy of children suffering from neurodermatitis, as evidenced by clinical observations and the time course of the immunity and nonspecific defense parameters. A relationship between the efficacy of heliothalassotherapy and the HLA classification of the patients has been revealed. PMID- 2531515 TI - [The characteristics of photodermatoses in workers of the Apsheron petroleum industry]. AB - Examinations of 518 refinery workers have revealed photodermatoses in 106. The disease ran a benign course: chronic or subacute one, eventuating in hyperpigmentation and vascular maculae in the workers exposed to oil and oil products. The patients suffering from occupational photodermatoses develop immunologic shifts, i.e. reduced levels of T-cells, T-suppressors, elevated counts of B-cells and of serum immunoglobulins G and M. PMID- 2531516 TI - [The characteristics of gonorrhea in children]. AB - Clinical analysis of gonorrhea cases in children has shown that girls aged under 10 make up 88% of the patients. In 81% of cases the patients have contracted the infection from their mothers. New cases predominated, only 3% of patients have developed a chronic condition. PMID- 2531517 TI - [The migration of radionuclides from global fallout in the trophic chains of biogeocenoses in arid zones]. AB - Radionuclide (137Cs and 90Sr) content in soil, plants, terrestrial vertebrates and invertebrates has been studied in Kalmyk ASSR, Turkmenian SSR, and Great Gobi Reserve (Mongolia). The content of radionuclides accumulated by wild animals in arid zone biogeocenoses and the patterns of radionuclide migration along food chains have been estimated. 90Sr was found to be involved in biological cycles with participation of soil and terrestrial organisms 3-23 times more intensively than 137Cs. PMID- 2531518 TI - [Interesting expert evaluation: subcutaneous emphysema manifesting 3 years after blunt trauma of the groin]. PMID- 2531519 TI - [Detection of T-lymphocytes in human endometrium]. AB - The T cell subpopulations in normal human endometrium were investigated by the immunoperoxidase technique with monoclonal antibodies. The total number of 100 endometrial biopsies from different phases of menstrual cycle were analyzed. It could be established, that the number of T cells shows typical variations during the cycle. The T suppressor cells increase in the ovulation and late luteal phase and decrease in the early luteal phase. The T helper cells were rare and without typical changes. It is assumed, that the regulation of T cells in the endometrium is connected with the formation of an optimal environment for the immigration of sperms and the implantation of the blastocyst. PMID- 2531520 TI - [The effect of buserelin therapy in endometriosis]. AB - We have treated 31 patients for 6 months at the UFK Tubingen. The AFS-score declined from 7.3 to 3.6, and the--for adhesions corrected--implantation-score from 3.5 to 0.5. Last decline was statistically significant. The endometriosis specific symptoms disappeared almost completely under Buserelin-therapy. Therapeutic concentrations of E2 (less than 55 pg/ml) were achieved after 4 weeks of therapy. Vaginal bleeding occurred in the first month in 48%, in the second month in 9%, and in the following month in 6% of our patients. With respect to weight, blood pressure, cholesterol, triglycerides, GOT, GPT, and calcium, there were no statistically significant changes before an after buserelin-therapy for 6 months. The pregnancy rate was, so far, 31%, and the reappearance of clinical symptoms occurred in 6.5%. PMID- 2531521 TI - [Early diagnosis of dermoid cysts in the treatment of sterility]. AB - Two cases of occult dermoid cysts in sterility patients were reported. In one case the follicular puncture during a gamete intra fallopian transfer (GIFT) trial led to diagnosis, in the other case it has been argued by sonography. Early diagnostic and subsequent therapeutic possibilities were discussed. PMID- 2531522 TI - [The prevalence of Yersinia and its serologic variants in patients with acute intestinal diseases of undetermined etiology in Leningrad]. AB - Among Yersinia enterocolitica strains of 32 serovars, proposed as typing strains, some strains were found to belong to new species. Y. enterocolitica sensu stricto was represented by 21 serovars in the collection of typing strains. The occurrence of different Yersinia serovars in patients with acute enteric diseases of unknown etiology in Leningrad in 1983-1986 was determined with the use of the set of monoreceptor to 21 serovars. Out of 2,947 cultures studied by biochemical and serological methods, 81% were typed. Among them 18 Y. enterocolitica serovars were determined. Their characteristic feature was the prevalence of serovar O3 and an insignificant proportion of serovar O9. More frequently Yersinia were detected in patients with the primary diagnosis of acute enteric diseases (93.5%). The overwhelming majority (two-thirds) of Yersinia strains were isolated from children. A great number of strains detected in this study (70%) was isolated on days 10-15 of the bacteriological examination. In 927 cultures the following biovars were determined: the strains of serovar O3 belonged to biovar 4 and all other strains, to biovar 1. PMID- 2531523 TI - [Clinico-epidemiologic aspects of campylobacteriosis in Moscow and Moscow Province]. AB - The clinical course and epidemiological features of campylobacteriosis in Moscow and Moscow Province in 1986-1987 are described. The specific proportion of this infection in the structure of acute enteric infections is, on the average, 4.8%. The level of Campylobacter contamination of animals and birds and their role in the spread of campylobacteriosis have been established. The possible ways and factors of the transfer of this infection are discussed. PMID- 2531524 TI - [Changes in the etiologic structure of Sonne shigellosis in its multiyear dynamics]. AB - The dynamics of Sonne dysentery morbidity in connection with changes in the structure of S. sonnei circulating among the population of Leningrad for the period of 1959-1984 was studied. Considering such sign as the leading fermentovar, three smaller periods were established in this stretch of time. Changes in the structure of circulating shigellae were accompanied by changes in the intensity and direction of tendencies or decrease in the manifest and asymptomatic forms of infection, as well as in annual morbidity levels and seasonal rises. A slow decrease in morbidity, which started in 1974, occurs in the presence of the predominant circulation of S. sonnei, fermentovar II, among the population; this fermentovar showed greater virulence and immunogenicity than other biovars. One of the decisive moments characterizing the dynamics of the epidemic process of Sonne dysentery is the intensity of the circulation of shigellae in the S-form, and the intensity of the population immunity of the host, linked with this fact, is subject to phasic fluctuations during each annual epidemic cycle. PMID- 2531525 TI - [Causes of errors in psychiatric expert testimony in adolescence]. AB - The sources of erroneous conclusions were analyzed in 393 cases of psychiatric investigation of males aged 19-22 years which had tested sane earlier (at ages 17 and 18 years). The errors were in only 10.3% of the cases related directly to difficulties in clinical evaluation of the patients' states. The rest were due to the faults in preparation and the course of investigation. PMID- 2531526 TI - [Clinical polymorphism of Huntington chorea (data of the study of the Shamkhor focus in the Azerbaijan S.S.R.)]. AB - The article analyzes the questions of polymorphism of clinical signs of Huntington chorea as investigated in an unique focus of the disease in Shamkhor region of Azerbaijan SSR. Possible determinants of the variability of the spectrum of clinical signs in different members of a family (age of onset, course and rate of development of the disease as assessed by electroneuromyographic investigation) are discussed. PMID- 2531527 TI - Cytohistologic correlation of urothelial lesions secondary to photodynamic therapy. AB - Qualitative cytologic evaluations of urinary bladder washings were performed on a selected population following photodynamic therapy for recurrent transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder. The seven patients were monitored trimonthly by cystoscopy, multiple biopsies and cytopreparations. Cancers reappeared in two of the five patients who initially responded to therapy. In the remaining two patients, the recurrent neoplasms were therapeutically refractory. Cytology detected recurrent cancer prior to biopsy confirmation and/or cytoscopic identification. Exfoliative cytology was correlated with the histopathology of the concurrent biopsies; a possible source for a false-positive cytodiagnosis was the cellular atypia of reepithelialized bladder mucosa. Dysplasia was not identified cytologically or histologically. PMID- 2531528 TI - [Alloreactivity and mitogen-induced responses in allogeneic murine bone marrow chimeras]. AB - Alloreactive mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR), mitogen-induced response (MR), and suppressor cells against these responses in murine bone marrow chimeras were examined, to clarify the mechanisms of immunological tolerance and immunodeficiency after bone marrow transplantation (BMT). Between 35 and 70 days after BMT, there was no response of spleen cells from allogeneic chimeras against host (C3H/He) and donor (BALB/c) cells, although responses against third party (C57BL/6) cells were detected, thus indicating that these allogeneic chimeras were immunologically tolerant. The activity of suppressor cells against alloreactive responses was increased 35 to 55 days after BMT, so that these suppressor cells appeared to be related to immunological tolerance. Some of the suppressor cells against alloreactive responses were Thy1+. Among them some were Lyt1+ or Lyt2+, and others were Lyt1+2+. Plastic dish non-adherent cells had slightly weaker suppressor activity than adherent cells. Proliferative responses to Con A, PHA, and PWM were decreased 13 to 15 days after BMT, and gradually increased. The responses to LPS differed from those to the former three mitogens, showing an enhanced response 21 to 25 days after BMT. The increased response to LPS did not appear to be simply due to the increased number of non-T cells in the spleen of allogeneic chimeras. The alloantigen specific suppressor cells may play an important role in the induction and maintenance of immunological tolerance, while the alloantigen nonspecific suppressor cells and suppressor cells against MRs may be related to immunodeficiency after BMT. PMID- 2531529 TI - Aplastic anemia: lack of increase of in vitro colony formation after T cell depletion with monoclonal antibodies and complement. AB - To detect suppressor T cells to hematopoietic stem cells, growth of granulocyte macrophage colony-forming cells (CFU-GM) and burst-forming unit (BFU-E) was compared before and after treatment of bone marrow cells with anti-T monoclonal antibodies and complement in 29 patients with aplastic anemia. The anti-T monoclonal antibodies used were 35.1 (CD2), Tp120 (CD6) and ATL27 (not clustered). Treatment of normal bone marrow with anti-T monoclonal antibodies and complement resulted in complete (greater than 99%) lysis of T cells with negligible effects on colony growth. Preincubation of marrow samples with monoclonal antibodies and complement did not enhance CFU-GM or BFU-E colony growth in patients with aplastic anemia. Using this assay, there was no evidence of T cell-mediated inhibition of colony proliferation in any of 29 patients. PMID- 2531530 TI - Human pulp reactions to resin restorations performed with different acid-etch restorative procedures. AB - Fifty-eight experimental resin restorations were performed in intact, human premolars, using different leakage-reducing restorative procedures. These were conventional acid-etching and acid-etching followed by cavity treatment with an intermediary layer of low-viscous resin or the dentin adhesive NPG-GMA/ethanol. The teeth were extracted after 4 months and examined for pulpal inflammation/necrosis (I), reduction of odontoblasts (OR), and formation of tertiary dentin (TD). By the general linear model procedure, 91%, 34%, and 56% of the variations in I, OR, and TD, respectively, could be explained by variations in the experimental conditions. The significant independent variables were jaw, stage of root formation, width of pulp, width of cavity, marginal leakage, bacteria in the cavity, bacteria in the exposed dentinal tubules, and the restorative procedure. With regard to the restorative procedure the analyses showed that application of low-viscous resin increased the pulpal reactions OR and I, whereas cavity treatment with NPG-GMA/ethanol had no adverse biologic effect. PMID- 2531531 TI - Three-year study of cervical erosions restored with resin and dentin-bonding agent. AB - Cervical erosions without undercuts and traditional cavity preparation were restored with a light-activated microfilled resin in combination with two different dentin-bonding agents, Gluma and the chemically activated version of Scotchbond. In the Gluma group the final polishing was postponed for at least 1 day; in the Scotchbond group polishing was performed 5 to 15 min after polymerization. The results of the two clinical tests are therefore not comparable. Under these experimental conditions the cumulative 3-year survival rate for the fillings in the two groups were 96% (Gluma) and 66% (Scotchbond). It is concluded that cervical erosions should be restored without undercuts or traditional cavity preparation on the condition that the enamel is acid-etched, polishing of the gingival area is postponed, and an effective dentin-bonding agent is used. PMID- 2531532 TI - The role of polymorphonuclear leukocytes in rat chronic serum sickness-type nephritis. AB - In order to investigate the role of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) in the distribution of antigen in various organs and in the development of nephritis, chronic serum sickness-type nephritis was induced in both anti-rat PMN rabbit serum (APS)-treated and normal rabbit serum (NRS)-treated rats by preimmunization with bovine serum albumin (BSA) and subsequent daily intravenous administration of BSA for 4 weeks. Kinetic studies using radiolabeled BSA showed that accumulation of BSA after the first intravenous administration was reduced by APS treatment in the liver, lungs and spleen and increased in the circulation, but was not affected in the kidneys and glomeruli. Histological studies supported the above findings. After 4 weeks of BSA administration, the BSA accumulation in the kidneys and glomeruli was significantly less in APS-treated rats than in NRS treated ones, while amounts of BSA in the circulation and other organs were not different between the two groups. Furthermore, APS treatment reduced proteinuria, PMN infiltration and IC deposition in the glomeruli. These observations indicate that PMN play a partial role in IC deposition in the glomerular capillary walls and subsequent destruction of glomerular permeability in chronic serum sickness type nephritis. PMID- 2531533 TI - Quantitative alterations of intramuscular connective tissue in calf muscles of the rat during combined hypoxia and hypokinesia. AB - The investigations were designed to study the long-term effect of hypoxia, hypokinesia and of combined hypokinesia and hypoxia on the skeletal muscle in the rat. In the muscles of the hypoxic and hypokinetic animals serious degenerative changes were found and the fibre-type ratio was altered. In the hypoxic animals moderate fibrosis was revealed. In the hypokinetic, and hypokinetic + hypoxic animals the amount of connective tissue was 5 to 10-fold greater in the calf muscles as compared to the control. PMID- 2531534 TI - In-vitro steroid production by human granulosa lutein cells in long-term cultures. AB - delta 4 and delta 5 pathway steroidogenesis by human granulosa lutein cells (GLC) in long-term cultures (6-8 days) was investigated under basal (10% serum + medium + GLC) and stimulated (human chorionic gonadotropins (hCG), 100 mIU/ml) conditions. In the delta 4 pathway, 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) secretion increased from 160-fold at 48 hours of culture to 360-fold at 144 hours under basal conditions, when compared with the respective controls (concentrations in the 10% serum added to the medium) (p less than 0.005). HCG further augmented 17 OHP production significantly at 96, 144 and 192 hours of culture. Progesterone (P) secretion behaved similarly, and increased from 150-fold at 48 hours to 560 fold at 96 hours when compared with controls, being further stimulated by hCG. In contrast, androstenedione (A) secretion throughout the entire culture period increased only slightly (3-5-fold) under both basal and stimulated conditions, when compared with the respective controls. In the delta 5 pathway, the secretory pattern of 17-hydroxypregnenolone (17-OHPregn) and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) was similar to that observed with A, and both steroids increased only slightly under basal and stimulated conditions, when compared with their respective controls. In conclusion, 17-OHP and P are secreted in very significant amounts during the entire culture period while 17-OHPregn, DHEA and A are secreted in extremely small amounts. These results demonstrate that the delta 5 pathway is inactive in long-term human GLC cultures while the delta 4 pathway is active in certain portions only.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2531535 TI - Response of plasma beta-endorphin and insulin to oral glucose tolerance test in non-obese women with polycystic ovaries. AB - Increased responses of plasma insulin and endorphins to the oral glucose tolerance test (oGTT) have earlier been found in obese women. We studied responses of immunoreactive beta-endorphin (ir beta-E) and insulin in plasma to the oGTT in 8 non-obese women with polycystic ovaries (PCO) and in 10 healthy women. An additional control group consisted of 5 healthy women who were fasting during the study period. In the PCO group the insulin and glucose responses to the oGTT were increased, and an increase of ir beta-E from 5.9 +/- 1.5 to 8.6 +/- 2.8 pmol/l was found during the 1st half-hour period of the oGTT. In contrast, no significant change was found during the oGTT in healthy women (3.2 +/- 0.5 and 2.7 +/- 0.65 pmol/l, respectively), and in the fasting control women the mean ir beta-E level (+/- SE) decreased, from 4.5 +/- 1.2 to 3.6 +/- 1.1 pmol/l. These findings revealed increased responses of both plasma ir beta-E and insulin to the oGTT in non-obese women with PCO but their possible causal relationship remained unsolved. PMID- 2531536 TI - Models of vocational assessment of handicapped students. AB - During the last twenty years, increasing emphasis has been placed upon the provision of comprehensive vocational assessment to disabled and disadvantaged persons to assist them in obtaining employment. Vocational evaluation programs have proliferated in rehabilitation facilities, manpower programs, vocational technical schools and public schools. An increasing body of literature and research has delineated service-delivery models and competencies needed by vocational evaluation specialists. Increasing numbers of universities have implemented graduate training programs in vocational evaluation; and a national professional certification process has been developed. Most of this activity has been centered at rehabilitation facilities at the same time that public schools are becoming the norm for educating disabled students. As vocational assessment for disabled students moves into this relatively new setting, it is being modified. This article explores models of vocational assessment for disabled students which incorporate modifications to suit the special needs of the public school setting. PMID- 2531537 TI - Relationship of atrial natriuretic factor to left ventricular volume and mass. AB - Although atrial natriuretic factor is primarily of atrial origin, recent observations indicate that the hormone is also synthesized by hypertrophied left ventricular myocardium. To assess the separate influences of left ventricular and left atrial dilatation and left ventricular hypertrophy on human atrial natriuretic factor levels, left atrial dimension and volume and left ventricular dimension and mass were compared in 49 normal subjects, in 33 patients with chronic aortic regurgitation, and in 15 patients with chronic mitral regurgitation. When compared with normal subjects, patients with chronic aortic and mitral regurgitation had similarly dilated and hypertrophied left ventricles (p less than 0.0005), while only mitral regurgitation patients had significantly enlarged (p less than 0.0005) mean left atrial dimension and volume. Likewise, plasma atrial natriuretic factor was elevated among patients with mitral regurgitation (60.3 +/- 47.0 fmol/ml) but was normal in patients with aortic regurgitation (19.0 +/- 11.0 fmol/ml versus 12.4 +/- 5.2 fmol/ml in normals; both p less than 0.0005 versus mitral regurgitation). Among all 97 subjects, atrial natriuretic factor levels correlated more closely with left atrial dimension and volume (r = 0.62 and 0.64, p less than 0.0005) than with left ventricular dimension (r = 0.44, p less than 0.0005) or mass (r = 0.40, p less than 0.0005). In addition, multivariate analysis indicated that left atrial volume bore a stronger independent relationship to plasma atrial natriuretic factor levels than either age or left ventricular variables.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2531538 TI - Suppositions and speculations--their possible effects on treatment decisions in the management of hypertension. PMID- 2531539 TI - Severe pulmonary hypertension and cor pulmonale in the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. PMID- 2531540 TI - Phase I study of weekly intravenous administration of menogaril to adults with solid tumors. AB - Thirty-nine adults with solid tumors were treated on a Phase I study of menogaril administered i.v. once each week. Granulocytopenia was dose-limiting at a menogaril dose of 115 mg/m2/wk. Ten patients required delays in treatment of 1-4 weeks (median, 1 week) at some point during their treatment until they recovered from granulocytopenia. The average dose intensity possible on this schedule was at least 80% higher than that possible using a single-day or a five-times-daily schedule every 4 weeks. One patient developed infection while neutropenic, and only one patient developed thrombocytopenia. Dexamethasone appeared to reduce the degree of myelosuppression. Gastrointestinal toxicity was quite mild, and alopecia was uncommon. Arm vein phlebitis frequently followed menogaril administration, requiring the use of Hickman catheters (or equivalents). Two patients had myocardial infarcts while on treatment. It was unclear if the menogaril was in any way responsible. Reversible dyspnea and cough (with no evidence of congestive heart failure) were seen in some patients. Responses were seen in patients with gliomas, renal-cell carcinoma, and bladder carcinoma, and marked subjective improvement occurred in a single patient with prostate cancer. We plan to conduct a Phase II study in astrocytoma patients using a menogaril dose of 115 mg/m2/wk i.v. PMID- 2531541 TI - Flow cytometric monitoring of human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients. Simultaneous enumeration of five lymphocyte subsets. AB - The utility of CD4 lymphocytes in monitoring disease progression and prognosis of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients is well established. We have modified a previously described antibody cocktail to provide complete lymphocyte subset analysis on 100-200-microL samples of whole blood. This method optimizes accuracy of CD4 lymphocyte assessments and provides simultaneous assessment of four other lymphocyte subtypes of interest in specimens with absolute lymphocyte counts as low as 300 X 10(6)/L. Lymphocytes are classified as Thelper (CD3+CD4+); Tsuppressor (CD3+CD8+); Tnull (CD3+CD4-CD8-, putative gamma delta T-cell receptor); B (CD19+CD20+); or natural killer (CD3-CD16+CD56+). The method positively discriminates against contamination of lymphocyte scatter gates by monocytes and unlysed erythrocytes and is compatible with a variety of cell preparation procedures. Increased accuracy of CD4 lymphocyte determinations and simultaneous identification of other lymphocyte subsets whose relationship to disease progression is under study make this an efficient and informative method for disease monitoring and evaluation of therapy in HIV-infected patients. PMID- 2531542 TI - Marrow involvement in cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. A clinicopathologic study of 60 cases. AB - Cutaneous T-cell lymphomas (CTCLs), including Sezary syndrome, are generally assumed to spare the marrow until the disease is far advanced. The authors reviewed marrow sections from 60 patients with CTCL, looking carefully for aggregates of cerebriform cells, and found marrow involvement in 13 patients (21.7%); another 19 had abnormal lymphoid nodules that were not diagnostic of involvement, and 28 had marrows with negative results. Involved marrows had nodules or infiltrates of dysplastic cerebriform cells that were often subtle, without a significant increase in cellularity; only one case showed massive involvement. Patients with CTCL with an infiltrative component of marrow involvement had associated peripheral blood involvement (eight of eight), generalized erythroderma (six of eight), lymph node involvement (five of eight), visceral progression (five of eight), and significantly shortened median survival compared with patients with CTCL with negative marrows (11 months and 70 months, respectively; P = 0.007). In contrast, five patients with nodules of tumor in the marrow but lacking an infiltrative component did not have peripheral blood involvement; only one patient had adenopathy or visceral progression develop, and two patients have died. Significant hematologic abnormalities were generally absent. Eight of 13 patients with marrow involvement had advanced skin disease, but skin disease was limited to plaques in five patients. Eight patients had marrow involvement develop within three months of initial diagnosis. Thus, marrow involvement occurs in approximately 20% of patients with CTCL, is often present at initial diagnosis, and is associated with widespread dissemination and shortened survival time when an infiltrative component is present. PMID- 2531543 TI - Prevalence, incidence, and progression of human immunodeficiency virus infection in homosexual and bisexual men in hepatitis B vaccine trials, 1978-1988. AB - Between 1978 and 1980, 359 hepatitis B seronegative homosexual and bisexual men were recruited from the San Francisco municipal sexually transmitted disease clinic for hepatitis B vaccine trials. Of the 359 participants, 320 (89%) consented to have their stored blood samples tested for human immunodeficiency virus antibodies. The prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus infection in these 320 vaccine trial participants rose from 0.3% in 1978 to 50.9% in 1988. The annual incidence of human immunodeficiency virus infection showed that seroconversion peaked in 1980-1982, dropped significantly in 1983, and has remained low. Men less than 30 years old on entry into the study seroconverted earlier in the epidemic and had higher incidence rates than men 30 years or older (p = 0.07). No statistical difference in seroconversion rates was found for other demographic variables. Using a Kaplan-Meier survival curve of the cumulative proportion of men without acquired immunodeficiency syndrome by duration of human immunodeficiency virus infection, an estimated 39% (95% confidence interval 27% 51%) will develop acquired immunodeficiency syndrome within 9.2 years of infection. Cox proportional hazard stepwise analysis showed no correlation between age at seroconversion, race, or year of seroconversion and progression to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. PMID- 2531544 TI - Patterns of mortality in Armenian parish records from eleven countries. AB - A study of the trends and distributions of mortality in parish records of Armenian churches from 11 countries spanning over 242 years is the basis of this report. In all parishes, the relative proportion of deaths in the older age groups gradually increased over the study period. Following a review of the most important causes of death, an effort was made to identify clusters and outbreaks of specific causes of death. Thus, in the 19th century, five epidemics of cholera were identified in one parish in Kutahya, Turkey (1831, 1848, 1865, 1871, and 1893). A review of the deaths due to the 1918 influenza pandemic revealed a major peak in October-December 1918 in Cairo, and deaths due to the same cause recorded in November-December 1918 in Rangoon, Dacca, and Calcutta. As observed elsewhere in the classic pattern of this pandemic, the largest number of these deaths were in persons who were in their twenties. In September-December 1942, in Thessaloniki, Greece, 31 deaths of all age groups were ascribed to a fever that was described as "toxic." The nature of this epidemic could not be explained. The observation that large numbers of recorded deaths occurred through violence and hunger during the First and Second World Wars as a result of the atrocities to which these communities were exposed sheds further light on historical events in those years. PMID- 2531545 TI - Analysis of mortality patterns and workers' compensation awards among asbestos insulation workers in Ontario. AB - Mortality and workers' compensation patterns were studied among 1,064 Ontario asbestos insulation workers. A proportional mortality analysis of 153 asbestos worker deaths found increased mortality from malignant diseases (65 deaths observed; 35.1 expected), cancers of the lungs and pleura (32 deaths observed; 11.5 expected), peritoneal mesothelioma (4 deaths), and respiratory diseases (14 deaths observed; 7.9 expected). Despite the publicity given to asbestos associated diseases, dependents of many men potentially eligible for workers compensation awards have not received pensions because claims were not filed. These findings suggest that much occupationally related disease is not being recognized in Ontario. PMID- 2531546 TI - Prenatal screening for Down syndrome with maternal serum human chorionic gonadotropin levels. AB - Human chorionic gonadotropin levels in midtrimester pregnancies may be predictive of Down syndrome. A commercially available enzyme immunoassay kit was used to measure the beta-subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin in maternal sera from 38 Down syndrome pregnancies and 114 gestational age matched controls. The human chorionic gonadotropin levels were also assayed in 236 normal sera and plasma samples to determine normative values and appropriate individual corrections. Serum and plasma human chorionic gonadotropin levels are closely correlated and are stable at room temperature, during refrigeration, and throughout freeze-thaw cycles. There is no correlation between the human chorionic gonadotropin level and maternal age, weight, or race. However, the human chorionic gonadotropin level decreases with each week of gestation from 15 to 19 weeks. Medians for each week of gestation were established to account for this variable. Up to 63% of the Down syndrome pregnancies were detected with a cutoff of 2.0 multiples of the normal median. A computational combination of human chorionic gonadotropin and maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein testing will detect additional Down syndrome pregnancies and decrease the false-positive rate. The measurement of human chorionic gonadotropin appears to be a valuable addition to maternal serum alpha fetoprotein screening programs that can significantly increase the proportion of Down syndrome cases diagnosed. PMID- 2531547 TI - Long-bone growth in fetuses with Down syndrome. AB - Short stature is a well-recognized component of Down syndrome. The femur lengths of affected fetuses have been observed to be shorter than normal, with a ratio of actual to expected femur length of less than 0.91 indicating a high risk of trisomy. To further evaluate this finding we have determined the relationship between limb lengths and gestational age in 37 postmortem fetal specimens with trisomy 21. Control values were obtained from 174 normal fetuses. Measurements of the femur, tibia, fibula, humerus, radius, and ulna were made from roentgenograms or by direct measurement of the bone. Most measurements for each bone of the affected fetuses fell below the normal regression line for that bone, but only 3/37 femurs, 4/32 tibias, 5/32 fibulas, 9/32 humeri, 10/32 radii, and 7/32 ulnas fell more than 2 SDs below the mean. The ratios of actual to expected femur lengths were computed and six fetuses with Down syndrome (16.2%) had ratios less than 0.91. The bones of the extremities of fetuses with trisomy 21 are shorter than normal, but the differences are relatively small. The ratio of actual/expected femur lengths was a less efficient predictor of Down syndrome than were either maternal age or maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein tests. The upper extremity bones were shorter than normal more often than were the bones of the lower extremity, and this finding should be explored further in a prospective study. PMID- 2531548 TI - Ovine fetal lung fluid response to atrial natriuretic factor. AB - The fetal lung is an important site of fluid production and is postulated to serve a regulatory role in fetal fluid balance. To assess the role of atrial natriuretic factor on fetal lung liquid production, we studied the effect of intravenous atrial natriuretic factor infusion on tracheal fluid production in fetal sheep with chronic vascular and tracheal catheters. Ovine fetuses (mean gestation = 130 days +/- 1 day) received successive 40-minute intravenous infusions of increasing doses of synthetic fragment 1-28 atrial natriuretic factor (5, 25, and 100 ng/min.kg-1). In response to the 25 ng/min.kg-1 infusion, fetal tracheal fluid production decreased from 1.2 +/- 0.3 ml/10 min to 0.6 +/- 0.2 ml/10 min (p less than 0.05), and remained suppressed during the 100 ng/min.kg-1 infusion (0.5 +/- 0.2 ml/10 min). There was a significant inverse correlation between tracheal fluid production and fetal plasma atrial natriuretic factor levels (r = -0.61, p less than 0.001). Basal tracheal fluid sodium and potassium concentrations (147 +/- 1 mEq/L and 5 +/- 1 mEq/L) and osmolality (291 +/- 3 mOsm) did not change during the atrial natriuretic factor infusion periods. The observation that atrial natriuretic factor acts to decrease fetal lung fluid production suggests that atrial natriuretic factor may be important in the fetal adaptive response to extrauterine life. PMID- 2531550 TI - Natriuretic effect of atriopeptin III in rats with papillary necrosis. AB - This study compared the effects of atriopeptin III (AP III) on sodium excretion and renal interstitial hydrostatic pressure (RIHP) in control rats and in rats pretreated with 2-bromoethylamine (BEA) to produce papillary necrosis. In control rats, infusion of AP III (100 ng.kg-1.min-1) increased sodium excretion from 2.2 +/- 0.7 to 6.4 +/- 0.9 microeq.min-1.g kidney wt-1 and RIHP from 6.8 +/- 0.7 to 8.7 +/- 0.9 mmHg, whereas glomerular filtration rate and renal blood flow were unaltered. Similar results were obtained in rats pretreated with BEA 48 h before the experiment. In rats studied 6 wk after BEA treatment, the papilla was absent and there was atrophy of juxtamedullary nephrons. AP III did not alter sodium excretion or RIHP in this group of rats. These results indicate that 1) an intact renal papilla and/or juxtamedullary nephron population may be required for the natriuretic effect of AP III; 2) the papillary injury 48 h after BEA is not sufficient to abolish the natriuretic response to AP III; and 3) elevations in RIHP may play a role in the natriuretic response to AP III. PMID- 2531549 TI - Renal vascular responses and eicosanoid release in diabetic rats. AB - Changes in renal perfusion pressure and eicosanoid release in response to arginine vasopressin (AVP; 1-10 ng) and angiotensin II (ANG II; 1-10 ng) were determined 5 days, 2 wk, and 8-12 wk after the induction of diabetes with streptozotocin (STZ) in male Wistar rats. Renal perfusion pressure responses to AVP and ANG II were reduced at 2 and 8-12 wk, but not at 5 days, after the induction of diabetes. However, AVP- and ANG II-stimulated release of prostaglandins into the renal venous effluent was depressed at all times tested. Inhibition of cyclooxygenase with indomethacin did not significantly influence the perfusion pressure responses to ANG II and AVP. Likewise, raising perfusate glucose levels to 400 mg/dl or adding insulin (180 microU/ml) to the perfusate failed to modify responses to ANG II. In contrast, administration of 0.3 microgram arachidonic acid (AA), a dose approaching threshold in control rat kidneys, to the kidney of the diabetic rat resulted in a marked increase in perfusion pressure. Associated with the increase in renal perfusion pressure to AA in the diabetic rat were significant increases in renal venous efflux of prostaglandin E2 and prostacyclin compared with control. These data suggest a defect in renal deacylation-reacylation of AA associated with an increase in cyclooxygenase activity in the diabetic rat. PMID- 2531551 TI - Altered microvascular reactivity in streptozotocin-induced diabetes in rats. AB - This study examined the effect of short-term streptozotocin-induced diabetes in rats on the response of cremaster muscle arterioles to angiotensin II (ANG II) and vasodilatory prostaglandins. Topically applied ANG II (10(-10) to 10(-6) M) caused significantly greater vasoconstriction of third-order arterioles in diabetic animals in comparison with controls. For example, in response to 10(-6) M ANG II arterioles of the diabetic animals constricted to 43 +/- 10% of basal diameter compared with controls' 67 +/- 6% (P less than 0.05). Furthermore, the magnitude of the secondary vasodilatation after ANG II-induced constriction was decreased in diabetic animals (108 +/- 4 and 131 +/- 9%, P less than 0.025). Cyclooxygenase inhibition resulted in marked arteriolar constriction, with this effect being less evident in diabetic animals. In response to indomethacin (2.8 x 10(-5) M), arterioles of the diabetic animals constricted to 84 +/- 7% of basal diameter compared with 56 +/- 4% in controls (P less than 0.01). Arterioles of the diabetic animals were less responsive to exogenous prostaglandin I2 (PGI2) and PGE2 (10(-12) to 10(-6) M) despite evidence of increased in vitro PGI2 production. The data demonstrate potentiation of the vasoconstrictor response and a diminution of the secondary vasodilator response to ANG II in experimental diabetes. These alterations may be due, in part, to decreased responsiveness of skeletal muscle arterioles to vasodilatory prostaglandins. PMID- 2531552 TI - Heterogeneous renal responses to atrial natriuretic factor. I. Chronic caval dogs. AB - Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) (175 ng.kg-1.min-1) was administered to 14 normal, alert dogs and again after constriction of the thoracic vena cava. The average natriuresis observed in the dogs when they were normal was blunted by 55% when they developed ascites and were avidly retaining sodium. Of the 14 caval dogs, 7 showed a natriuretic response no different from the control phase while 7 showed no natriuresis at all in response to the ANF. Ten dogs were restudied when they entered a phase of sodium balance despite the persistence of ascites. All 10 dogs now responded to ANF, and 5 dogs previously not responding now showed a mean change of urinary sodium excretion rate (delta UnaV) of 204 mu eq/min. The two groups could not be differentiated in terms of plasma volume, systemic or renal hemodynamics, or plasma levels of renin and aldosterone. We conclude that there is reversible attenuation of the ANF natriuretic effect in 50% of chronic caval dogs, which disappears when they lose avidity for sodium retention. PMID- 2531553 TI - Heterogeneous renal responses to atrial natriuretic factor. II. Cirrhotic dogs. AB - The renal response to atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) (175 ng.kg-1.min-1) was tested in nine dogs during a control period and again after the appearance of experimental cirrhosis, ascites, and avid sodium retention. During the cirrhotic phase, plasma volume had increased by 28.4% (P less than 0.05), renal perfusion and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) were unchanged from control values, and plasma immunoreactive ANF (iANF) had declined from 71.6 +/- 9.5 to 34.7 +/- 5.4 pg/ml (P less than 0.05). During the control phase, change of urinary sodium excretion rate (delta UNaV) increased by 132 +/- 22 mu eq/min but was attenuated in the cirrhotic phase (delta UNaV = 29 +/- 12.5 mu eq/min). Of these nine cirrhotic dogs, five responded with a delta UNaV ranging from 20 to 114 mueq/min (mean delta UNaV = 59.6 +/- 10.6 mu eq/min), whereas 4 were nonresponders (delta UNaV = 1.3 +/- 0.6 mu eq/min). In neither group could delta UNaV be correlated to changes in GFR, clearance of p-aminohippurate, or filtration fraction. In an additional 10 dogs studied only during cirrhosis, 5 were natriuretic responders and 5 were nonresponders. Atrial content of ANF, half time of infused ANF, and plasma levels of iANF did not differentiate the two groups. We conclude that, like chronic caval dogs with ascites, salt-retaining cirrhotic dogs show heterogeneity of natriuretic response to infused ANF, which is unexplained by differences in renal perfusion. PMID- 2531554 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide and pressure natriuresis: interactions with the renin angiotensin system. AB - The aim of this study was to quantitate the effects of increases in atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), within the pathophysiological range, on the acute pressure natriuresis mechanism and the role of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in modulating these effects. Renal hemodynamics and electrolyte excretion were measured in anesthetized dogs while renal perfusion pressure (RPP) was controlled at three levels (120-122, 100, and 75 mmHg) with and without intrarenal infusion of ANP at 5 ng.kg-1.min-1. Sodium excretion was significantly higher during ANP infusion at RPP of 122 +/- 3 mmHg, averaging 55.8 +/- 13.7 during control and 113.3 +/- 23.3 mueq/min during ANP infusion. AT RPP of 101 +/- 1 mmHg, sodium excretion was 51.8 +/- 17.4 during control and 93.0 +/- 17.6 mueq/min during ANP infusion, but at RPP of 75 +/- 0 mmHg there was no difference in sodium excretion between control and ANP infusion. In a second set of dogs, angiotensin II (ANG II) formation was blocked with captopril (20 micrograms.kg-1.min-1), circulating (5 ng.kg-1.min-1), and the above protocol was repeated. When the RAS was fixed, the renal responses to ANP infusion were abolished, even at the higher pressure levels. These data indicate that ANP increases the slope of pressure natriuresis; at higher levels of RPP, ANP potentiates pressure natriuresis but not at lower pressures. In addition, part of this effect may be due to suppression of the RAS, because the ANP-induced shift in the pressure natriuresis relationship was abolished when circulating ANG II was maintained constant. PMID- 2531555 TI - Experimental and clinical applications of angioscopic guidance for laser angioplasty. AB - The role of angioscopic monitoring and aiming for control of laser intervention in the vascular system was initially investigated in 48 vessels in 33 dogs, and the techniques were then applied to 30 patients undergoing intraoperative or percutaneous laser-probe angioplasty treatment for long atherosclerotic occlusions of the femoral and popliteal arteries or well-localized lesions of the superficial femoral artery. Experimental bare argon fiber laser application in 20 normal canine arteries in vivo demonstrated that small-diameter laser fibers could be accurately aimed by manipulations of the scope. However, advancement of the fiber resulted universally in perforation, with extravasation and thermal damage of surrounding tissues after 2 seconds of argon laser energy at low power. In 28 canine and 2 human veins, angioscopically guided metallic-tipped laserprobes were used to divide 82 valve cusps in preparation for in-situ bypass, with satisfactory aiming and monitoring achieved expeditiously by manipulations of the angioscope. We conclude that angioscopic aiming of lasers is feasible in normal vessels or localized lesions. In contrast, angioscopy has a restricted role for guidance of laser angioplasty in atherosclerotic, occluded arteries, and does not prevent perforation. Postprocedural inspection allows immediate detection of complications and may avert or predict poor outcome. PMID- 2531556 TI - Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty versus surgery for subclavian artery occlusive disease. AB - Twenty-one patients who underwent percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) for proximal stenosis of the subclavian artery were compared with 15 patients who underwent carotid subclavian reconstruction. This represents the first attempt to directly compare the two procedures. All patients had routine Doppler examination during follow-up. Mean follow-up was 30 +/- 24 months after PTA and 40 +/- 25 months after surgery. The incidences of procedural complications were similar (PTA one complication, surgery two complications). Although better early results were achieved in patients who underwent PTA (actuarial patency: PTA 91 percent, surgery 87 percent), after dilatation, we observed a continuous deterioration of the hemodynamic status of the artery, which led to a high rate of late restenosis (actuarial patency: PTA 54 percent, surgery 87 percent). There were no significant changes postoperatively. The specific role of each procedure is analyzed in view of the new acknowledgment of the clinical importance of proximal subclavian artery disease. PMID- 2531558 TI - [Histochemical muscle fiber characterization of the masticatory muscles of the Wistar rat (Rattus norvegicus Berkenhout)]. AB - 224 muscle biopsies of the mandible adductors of the Wistar rat have been analyzed enzyme-histochemically for the investigation of their muscle fibre types. The myofibrillar adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) and the succinic dehydrogenase (SDH) have been used in this investigation. The major part of the chewing musculature consists of muscle fibres of the type II, which can be subdivided into 3 subtypes, type IIA, IIB and TR. PMID- 2531557 TI - [The effect of sufentanil in high doses on hemodynamics and electroencephalography activity in coronary patients]. AB - Sufentanil, a synthetic opioid that is 5-10 times as potent as fentanyl, has been suggested by some authors to prevent hypertensive responses to noxious stimuli in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery much better than fentanyl, while in other studies it has failed to maintain cardiovascular stability during surgical stimulation. This study was designed to investigate the cardiovascular and electroencephalographic effects of high-dose sufentanil/O2/pancuronium anesthesia in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery. METHODS. Two different doses of sufentanil were administered to two groups including a total of 20 male patients. Patients in group 1 (n = 10) received 10 micrograms.kg-1 sufentanil as an induction dose plus 0.15 microgram.kg-1.min-1 as a continuous infusion, while 10 micrograms.kg-1 plus 0.3 microgram.kg-1.min-1 were administered to the patients in group 2 (n = 10). Hemodynamic measurements were performed with the patients awake (I), 15 min following the induction of anesthesia with sufentanil and pancuronium at rest (II), and during sternotomy and sternal spreading (III). Patients were ventilated with oxygen in air (FiO2 = 0.5). Cerebral electrical activity was recorded by periodic analysis of the EEG, and plasma concentrations of sufentanil were measured throughout the entire study period. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION. The dosage scheme used in this study, which consisted of a sufentanil bolus followed by a continuous infusion, prevented plasma concentrations of sufentanil from declining in both groups during the entire study period. Following induction there was a significant decrease in systolic arterial pressure by 12% in group 1 and 20% in group 2 accompanied by a reduction in cardiac index by 25% and 21%, respectively, and in stroke volume index by 19% in group 1 and 24% in group 2, while systemic vascular resistance increased by 27% and 10%, respectively. Sternotomy led to a rise in systolic arterial pressure that did not exceed the awake values in both groups, while diastolic and mean arterial pressures (MAP) increased by 17% and 14% and by 15%, respectively, due to further increases in systemic vascular resistance by 57% and 41% above the control values. Cardiac and stroke volume indexes stayed significantly lower than the awake values, whereas heart rate remained essentially unchanged during the course of the study. There were no statistically significant differences between the groups during all measurements. In the EEG, sufentanil anesthesia was characterized by a decrease in the number of higher frequency waves and an increase in lower frequency (delta) waves, which did not change during sternotomy in 17 of the 20 patients. PMID- 2531559 TI - Adverse responses following intraoperative administration of orthoclone OKT3. PMID- 2531560 TI - Seizures during opioid anesthetic induction--are they opioid-induced rigidity? AB - The tape recorded EEGs of 127 patients anesthetized with large doses of opioids were retrospectively analyzed for evidence of opioid-induced seizures, and in particular, correlated with movements that occurred during induction and could be clinically interpreted as seizures. Bilateral EEG leads in patients receiving fentanyl (20), sufentanil (20), or alfentanil (87) were recorded. Forty-six of these patients from all opioid groups manifested intense rigidity, as assessed both clinically and by EMGs recorded from eight muscles in 69 of the patients receiving alfentanil. This intense rigidity often resembled seizures, in that the phenomenon entailed severe stiffness of both limbs and trunk, with an explosive onset of myoclonic limb movements, and associated vertical nystagmus. Electroencephalographic observations were extensive, entailing 69 h of paper recordings played back from the tapes, at paper speeds of 30 or 60 mm/s, with detailed annotations from the voice track. These paper recordings were examined in detail independently by three of the investigators, who were unaware of the clinical phenomena that had occurred. The only observed EEG activity that could have been interpreted as epileptiform consisted of small sharp waves related to muscle activity or other artifact. The EEG never indicated seizure activity during these drug-induced movements and rigidity. Reports of opioid-induced seizures are reviewed and a set of criteria is offered to help achieve future consistency and credibility in evaluating this phenomenon. The available evidence does not support the existence of opioid-induced seizures in the clinical setting. PMID- 2531561 TI - A comparison of the cerebral hemodynamic effects of sufentanil and isoflurane in humans undergoing carotid endarterectomy. AB - Prompted by reports of potentially deleterious cerebral vasodilation by the synthetic opioid sufentanil, the authors compared the effects of either isoflurane/N2O and sufentanil/N2O on cerebral blood flow (CBF), arteriovenous difference in oxygen content (AVDO2), and CBF reactivity to changes in PaCO2 during carotid endarterectomy. Cerebral blood flow was measured using the iv method of 133-Xe CBF determination and AVDO2 was measured using systemic arterial jugular venous oxygen content differences. Patients, age 68 +/- 1 yr (mean +/- SE), received either isoflurane (n = 10), 0.75% in O2 and N2O, 1:1; or sufentanil (n = 10), 1.5-2 micrograms/kg bolus and then 0.2-0.3 micrograms.kg-1.h-1 infusion in addition to O2 and N2O, 2:3. Measurements were made immediately before carotid occlusion, and then at two levels of PaCO2 (approximately 32 and 42 mmHg) after insertion of a temporary in-dwelling bypass shunt. Prior to carotid occlusion, there was no significant difference in CBF (ml.100 g-1.min-1) between patients receiving isoflurane (22 +/- 3) or sufentanil (20 +/- 2). Similarly, there was no difference in AVDO2 (vol-%) between isoflurane (4.5 +/- 0.7) and sufentanil (5.4 +/- 0.8) groups. Using a two-way ANOVA design with anesthetic as the between group factor and elevation of PaCO2 as the within-group repeated measure, there was a significant effect of hypercarbia to increase CBF (P less than 0.0001) and decrease AVDO2 (P less than 0.001). The product of AVDO2 and CBF, which reflects cerebral metabolic oxygen consumption, remained constant (P = 0.364).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2531562 TI - Immediate respiratory arrest after caudal epidural sufentanil. PMID- 2531563 TI - Solid state line scan cameras for measuring strain in soft tissues and implants. AB - The line scan camera, or LSC, is an inexpensive and easily applied technique for optical strain measurement of soft biomaterials. The LSC is based on a linear array of photodiodes; in gauging applications, where measurements between dark/light interfaces are important, the digital nature of the array can be exploited. Advantages of the LSC include low cost, high frequency response, applicability to front- or back-lighted samples, insensitivity to stray and nonuniform lighting as well as to accidental overexposure, ease and linearity of calibration, and lack of temperature sensitivity. With the 1024 element arrays used herein, the relative resolution is theoretically limited to 1 part in 1024, or 0.1%; in practice, the relative resolution is somewhat poorer. LSCs have been successfully used in mechanical tests to measure the diameter of arteries and compliant vascular grafts, the longitudinal strain of vascular grafts, and the dynamic diameter of elastic tube models of graft/artery systems in pulsatile flow visualization experiments. PMID- 2531564 TI - [A method for evaluating the hepatitis B vaccination program]. AB - Two mathematical models have been created in order to estimate the effectiveness (number and proportion of infections saved) and the cost/effectiveness ratio (cost per infection saved) of a hepatitis B vaccination strategy among hospital personnel. The aim of the models is to analyse the mathematical relationship between the measurement of strategy impact and some variables: theoretical effectiveness of vaccine, proportion of assent to the programme, epidemiological characteristics. Applying models to Piedmont situation it has been possible to identify factors which have negatively influenced the effectiveness and efficiency of strategy. PMID- 2531565 TI - [Back pain in children, rounded back, Scheuermann's disease]. PMID- 2531566 TI - [How far has laser angioplasty gotten?]. AB - Several clinical trials of laser angioplasty performed on peripheral arteries have demonstrated that continuous lasers are capable of repermeabilize occluded arteries, with a low complication rate and perhaps a reduced incidence of restenosis, in comparison with balloon angioplasty. However, the mediocre size of the "neo-lumens" created by laser, requires an additional balloon angioplasty. Moreover, a number of drawbacks have been noted: even if they only exceptionally require surgery, perforations are note unusual, emphasizing the importance of an accurate guiding of the laser beam. Besides, histologically, burns of the arterial wall are found constantly along with the related risk of spasm and thrombosis. Finally, very calcified lesions are relatively resistant to these lasers. Pulsed lasers (excimeres lasers, coloring lasers, etc.) allowing a precise excision of atheroma plaques, even calcified, without any major overheating, are currently under experimentation. The clinical experiment of percutaneous application of laser energy to the treatment of coronary atheroma, remains limited and concerns, for the time being, "thermic" angioplasty devices by continuous laser ("hot-tip"). It is possible that in these small caliber vessels, pulse lasers prove to be superior to continuous lasers because of the precision of their excision and the absence of overheating of the surrounding tissues. Several angioplasty systems, competitors of lasers, have recently been developed (atherectomy, drills, radio-frequencies, ultrasounds, etc.) and prove, for some of them, to be easy to use, less expensive than lasers and particularly effective in the treatment of incomplete occlusions, in the peripheral as well as coronary arteries.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2531567 TI - [Dilatation of the mitral and aortic valves. Current trends]. AB - Following percutaneous endoluminal dilatation of the coronary arteries, new techniques developed in 1984 and 1986 respectively with the purpose of treating percutaneously adult mitral and aortic stenosis. Results of mitral valvuloplasty are excellent from an haemodynamic standpoint as well as an electrocardiographic and clinical standpoint. Anatomical lesions, especially commissural fissure, give a good explanation of these results. But this is a complex procedure, relatively rarely indicated today in France, because of the almost total disappearance of acute rheumatoid arthritis. Degenerative aortic stenosis is the most frequent valvulopathy in France. It occurs in elderly patients, after weak, in whom surgery is always a major risk. Dilatation seemed an interesting alternative to surgery. Unfortunately the results of aortic valvuloplasty are poor and most of the time temporary. However, improvement of the symptoms is observed in one out of two cases. These poor results are due to the nature of the anatomical lesion which respond poorly to valvuloplasty. PMID- 2531568 TI - In vitro effects of folate inhibitors on Toxoplasma gondii. AB - Three sulfonamides and four dihydrofolate reductase inhibitors were tested alone and in combination to determine their in vitro effects on two strains of Toxoplasma gondii grown in MRC5 fibroblast tissue culture. Toxoplasma growth was quantitated by an enzyme immunoassay performed directly on the fixed cultures, and linear regression models were used to quantify the relationship between the optical density values generated by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and the concentrations of the antimicrobial agents in the culture medium. The cytopathic effects of antimicrobial agents on T. gondii were examined in Giemsa-stained cultures. Sulfonamides and dihydrofolate reductase inhibitors exhibited similar patterns of inhibition, consisting of an important increase of the inhibitory effect within a narrow range of concentrations. Sulfadiazine, sulfamethoxazole, and sulfisoxazole were all found to have important inhibitory effects on T. gondii; the 50% inhibitory concentrations estimated from the regression models were 2.5 micrograms/ml for sulfadiazine, 1.1 micrograms/ml for sulfamethoxazole, and 6.4 micrograms/ml for sulfisoxazole. This inhibition of growth was associated with a reduction of the number of parasitized cells and intracellular parasites that were morphologically normal. With dihydrofolate reductase inhibitors, including pyrimethamine, trimethoprim, trimetrexate-glycuronate, and piritrexim, a strong inhibition of Toxoplasma growth was observed, which was associated with striking morphological changes of the parasites. The 50% inhibitory concentrations were 0.04 microgram/ml for pyrimethamine, 2.3 micrograms/ml for trimethoprim, 0.16 ng/ml for trimetrexate-glycuronate, and 6.9 ng/ml for piritrexim. When sulfonamides and dihydrofolate reductase inhibitors were used in combination, a synergistic effect was observed with sulfadiazine combined with pyrimethamine, trimetrexate-glycuronate, and piritrexim; sulfisoxazole combined with pyrimethamine; and trimethoprim combined with sulfamethoxazole. These results were analyzed in comparison with human pharmacokinetics data. PMID- 2531569 TI - Teicoplanin metabolism in rats. AB - This study was done to see whether teicoplanin undergoes metabolic transformation in rats. Sprague-Dawley rats were given 7.6 mg of [14C]teicoplanin (904 U/mg, 7.6 muCi/mg) per kg intravenously; 73.2 +/- 4.0% of the administered radioactivity and 59.1 +/- 4.8% of the administered microbiological activity were recovered in the 24-h urine samples. The difference between these two values was due to adsorption of teicoplanin to the urinary sediment, making some of the antibiotic not available for microbiological determination. In fact, after a sample or urine was filtered through an Acrodisc (0.45 micron pore size), radiochemical and microbiological data for the filtrate were very similar. Possible metabolites were looked for by high-performance liquid chromatographic analysis of the teicoplanin complex composition in the urine samples, with both UV and radioactivity detection. The quantitation, based on the 14C percentage in each peak, showed that no more than 3 to 5% of the [14C]teicoplanin underwent metabolic and/or chemical transformation. PMID- 2531570 TI - Treatment of psoriasis by the topical application of the novel cholecalciferol analogue calcipotriol (MC 903) AB - Calcipotriol (the synthetic compound MC 903) is a structural analogue of naturally occurring, biologically active calcitriol. Calcipotriol and calcitriol (1,25-dihydroxy vitamin D3) show similar receptor binding and comparable effects on cell differentiation. However, calcipotriol seems to be at least 100 times less potent in its effects on calcium metabolism. In a double-masked study involving 50 patients with psoriasis vulgaris, the efficacy and tolerability of ointments containing various calcipotriol concentrations (25, 50, or 100 micrograms/g) or the vehicle alone were compared in a study involving a right left, within-patient randomized design. Patients were treated twice daily for 8 weeks. Marked improvement was seen in 40% of the patients treated with the 25 micrograms/g concentration of calcipotriol in 63% of patients treated with the 50 micrograms/g concentration, and in 88% treated with the 100-micrograms/g concentration. No patient treated with placebo had more than slight improvement. Five patients developed facial dermatitis during the study. The serum levels of ionized calcium were unchanged. This study demonstrates that calcipotriol ointment provides an effective and well-tolerated treatment of psoriasis vulgaris. PMID- 2531571 TI - Improvement of palmoplantar keratoderma of nonhereditary type (eczema tyloticum) after oral administration of 1 alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. PMID- 2531572 TI - Retin-A and wax epilation. PMID- 2531573 TI - Recent trends in the management of desmoid tumors. Summary of 19 cases and review of the literature. AB - Recent advances in the understanding of desmoid tumor biology affect therapeutic choices. This series of 19 patients and review of the literature outlines historic perspectives and discusses the options in the management of these locally aggressive tumors. Desmoid tumors tend to grow steadily, regardless of tumor location. However differences in the aggressive nature of these tumors are seen when age and sex distributions are scrutinized. Although recurrence rates are high, excisional therapy is the best first approach. An exception is the case in which tumor excision is either particularly dangerous or likely to result in significant physical handicap. Radiation or drug therapy are most often used with recurrent disease or as an alternative to mutilating surgery. Although many pharmacologic approaches have been advocated, (including antiestrogen therapy, cyclic-AMP, and prostaglandin inhibition), results are anecdotal at best. PMID- 2531574 TI - [Endocrine function of the heart: structuro-functional aspects]. AB - Modern notions, accumulated during the period of investigation of before poorly studied endocrine++ function of the heart are presented. History of the problem, structural and functional aspects on argumentation of the cardiac endocrine function, place and role of physiologically active cardiac peptides in regulation of liquor and electrolytic homeostasis are followed, as well as interactions of the cardiac endocrine apparatus with the hormonal system of the organism. The authors' experience on the investigation connected with the problem is also demonstrated. PMID- 2531575 TI - Parents' reports of disability among 13 year olds: preliminary experiences with WHO's ICIDH. AB - Disability, as defined by the International Classification of Impairments Disabilities and Handicaps (ICIDH), was studied in a sample of 13 year olds (n = 831) who are involved in a longitudinal study of health, development and behaviour. The disability categories of ICIDH were used to develop a self administered questionnaire for completion by parents, and 831 parents completed the questionnaire. The most common reported disabilities were: writing/spelling (26%), coping with dust/pollens or chemicals (15%), and coping with school work (15%). Eighty-one parents reported that their teenager had some circumstantial dependency; 49 of these mentioned medication that was associated with asthma management. Despite problems in the application of the disability categories of ICIDH, they were considered to provide a useful means by which to study disability systematically among teenagers. PMID- 2531576 TI - Some unresolved issues in paediatric rehabilitation. PMID- 2531577 TI - Effect of short-term exposure of rats to dehydroepiandrosterone on the hepatic metabolism of dimethylnitrosamine. AB - The influence of short-term treatment with dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a naturally occurring adrenal steroid, on hepatic metabolism and macromolecular interactions of the hepatocarcinogen dimethylnitrosamine (NDMA) was investigated in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Liver weight, total tissue protein (P less than 0.05), microsomal and cytosolic proteins and cytochrome P-450 (P less than 0.001) were all significantly increased in rats treated orally with DHEA (300 mg/kg body wt., suspended in 1.0 ml of sesame oil). The hepatic DNA content was not altered, however. Methylation of DNA by NDMA was reduced significantly in DHEA-treated rats (P less than 0.05). The binding of [14C]NDMA to hepatic proteins was greater in DHEA-treated rats. The results suggest that short-term treatment of rats with DHEA enhances the binding of NDMA-derived metabolites to hepatic proteins, resulting in the protection of DNA from the damaging effects of NDMA. PMID- 2531579 TI - N-terminal sequence of the rat liver beta-subunit in the mitochondrial ATPase ATPsynthase. AB - The N-terminal amino acid residues of the beta-subunit in the rat liver mitochondrial ATPase - ATPsynthase have been identified by direct microsequencing after electrophoresis of either purified F1 or F0F1. The mature rat liver beta subunit begins by two alanine residues that precede the glutamine recently proposed as the first amino acid of the sequence (Boulet, D., Poirier, J. and Cote, C., 1989, Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 159, 1184-1190). This result indicates that the proteolytic cleavage of the beta-subunit precursor may occur at the level of this first alanine. This may be important in the understanding of proteolytic processing events which lead to the assembly of the ATPase ATPsynthase subunits during mitochondrial biogenesis. PMID- 2531578 TI - An immunological and biochemical comparison of 67 kDa calcimedin and 67 kDa calelectrin. AB - The 67 kDa calcimedin is a Ca2+-binding protein isolated from several muscle tissues. A recent report [Morse & Moore (1988) Biochem. J. 251, 171-174] indicated that the 67 kDa calcimedin is distinct from 67 kDa calelectrin, which is purified from various non-muscle cells. In the present study we have purified the 67 kDa protein from bovine aorta (i.e. 67 kDa calcimedin) and liver (i.e. 67 kDa calelectrin) and compared them by immunological and biochemical criteria. The aorta calcimedin is identical with the liver calelectrin by the following criteria. (1) The calcimedin co-electrophoresed with the calelectrin on SDS/5-15% (w/v)-linear-gradient polyacrylamide gels. (2) The two proteins selectively cross reacted with a chicken gizzard calcimedin antibody. (3) An antibody raised against the bovine aorta calcimedin also recognized the bovine liver calelectrin. (4) One-dimensional peptide maps of the two proteins revealed no significant difference. (5) The calcimedin appeared to have an amino acid composition essentially the same as that of the liver calelectrin. (6) The amino acid sequences of the calcimedin fragments were identical with those of the calelectrin fragments. PMID- 2531580 TI - Endothelin stimulates accumulations of cellular atrial natriuretic peptide and its messenger RNA in rat cardiocytes. AB - The effect of endothelin-1 (ET-1) on secretion and synthesis of rat atrial natriuretic peptide (rANP) as well as its mRNA levels was studied in primary cultures of neonatal rat atrial cardiocytes. ET-1 dose-dependently (10(-10)-10( 7) M) increased media and cellular rANP-like immunoreactivity as well as its cytoplasmic mRNA levels in rat cardiocytes during 24 hrs incubation. These results suggest that ET-1 directly stimulates expression of the rANP gene in cardiocytes, thereby leading to enhanced synthesis and secretion of rANP. PMID- 2531581 TI - Novel peptides derived from a region of local homology between uteroglobin and lipocortin-1 inhibit platelet aggregation and secretion. AB - The active site for uteroglobin inhibition of phospholipase A2 has been localized to a nonapeptide (P1) which is partially homologous to a nonapeptide (P2) in lipocortin, which also inhibits phospholipase A2. P1 and P2 share an identical tetrapeptide (P4) which is required for inhibition, although P4 alone does not inhibit this enzyme. We found the mechanism of inhibition of platelet aggregation and secretion by the nonapeptides and P4 varied depending on whether platelets were thrombin- or ADP-activated. All three peptides decrease thrombin esterolytic activity and thereby inhibit thrombin-induced platelet activation. P1 decreases ADP-induced aggregation and serotonin secretion by inhibiting phospholipase A2 whereas P4 decreases only aggregation by blocking fibrinogen binding to activated platelets. The P4 sequence in P1 may affect the interaction of P1 with platelets since the presence of P4 potentiates P1 inhibition of platelet activation. PMID- 2531582 TI - Orientation of chargerin II (A6L) in the ATP synthase of rat liver mitochondria determined with antibodies against peptides of the protein. AB - Previous studies suggested that the hydrophobic protein chargerin II, which is encoded in the unidentified reading frame A6L of mitochondrial DNA (URFA6L), may have a key role in the energy transduction by mitochondrial ATP synthase because an antibody against chargerin II inhibited ATP synthesis and ATP-Pi exchange, in an energy-dependent fashion. In the present work, the orientation of chargerin II in Fo of the ATP synthase of rat liver mitochondria was examined using antibodies against peptides of chargerin II. Results showed that its N-terminal region (about 8 amino acid residues) was exposed on the surface of the C-side of Fo, but its C-terminal and charge-cluster regions were buried in Fo. PMID- 2531583 TI - Minute amounts of RNA are synthesized from several regions of the bacteriophage Mu DNA during the lysogenic state. AB - The transcription of phage Mu DNA during the lysogenic state has been quantitatively analysed. For this purpose pulse-labelled RNA from two lysogens and from their nonlysogenic parental strains were hybridized to non-overlapping Mu DNA restriction fragments covering the whole phage genome. The data revealed that all regions of the prophage are transcribed at low rates and that phage promoters are involved in this transcription. For this study an improved assay for quantitative filter hybridization was employed. The high sensitivity and reproducibility that can be obtained with the assay make it suitable for the quantitative analysis of minute amounts of mRNA. PMID- 2531584 TI - "Thymineless" death in androgen-independent prostatic cancer cells. AB - The molecular mechanism of "thymineless" death induced by 5-fluorodeoxyuridine or trifluorothymidine, in androgen-independent rat prostatic adenocarcinoma AT-3 cells was investigated. Fragmentation of genomic DNA into discrete multiples of a nucleosomal unit (i.e. 180bp subunit) and induction of expression of TRPM-2, a programmed cell death-associated gene, temporally correlated with the activation of programmed cell death in this system. In contrast, killing of AT-3 cells by osmotic lysis, or membrane-targeted metabolic inhibitors results in neither the stereotypic DNA fragmentation into nucleosomal oligomers nor the elevation of TRPM-2 mRNA levels but to non-specific biochemical changes characteristic of necrosis. These results suggest that androgen-independent prostatic cancer cells retain a major portion of the programmed cell death cascade which can be activated by non-androgen ablative cytotoxic drugs that induce "thymineless" death. PMID- 2531585 TI - Technology transfer. Tapping the potential for individuals with handicaps. PMID- 2531586 TI - Future trends in health care. PMID- 2531587 TI - Dacron augmentation of a free patellar tendon graft: a biomechanical study. AB - The mechanical characteristics of a knitted 8-mm Dacron tube used as augmentation for patellar tendon strips was analyzed and compared with ligament augmentation device (LAD) tendon strips. The failure load was found to be the same (approximately 320 N) for both types of ligament augmentations. The typical failure mode in the Dacron augmentations was rupture of the Dacron tube proximal to the proximal bone fragment. The LAD augmentations failed at the suture line. The Dacron composite was stiffer than the LAD composite at low loads, but both composites became stiffer after two load cycles to 40 N with stress relaxation. At the end of the second stress relaxation cycle, the remaining load was significantly higher for the Dacron composite. During the second 2-min stress relaxation period, the Dacron composite lost 23% and the LAD composite lost 28% of the applied load. The stiffness and the elongation to failure was the same for both composites. The study showed that the Dacron tube may have possibilities similar to the LAD for use as an augmentation device. PMID- 2531588 TI - Removal of bone staples: a potential problem in revision surgery after ligament reconstruction. AB - Two cases are presented in which an attempt to remove the staples used to fix an artificial ligament caused the front of the tibia to break. A mechanical study was performed to measure the force required to extract staples from bone cement, as well as from calf bone with predrilled holes. Using an extraction tool, it was possible to generate an average maximum force of 500 N by hand. At that load, all staples remained firmly anchored in cement and bone. The staples were impossible to remove even when the serrations in the staple legs were reduced by 75%. Accordingly, special care is necessary to avoid complications with staple removal. PMID- 2531589 TI - [Effect of neocarzinostatin on E. coli mutants deficient in DNA repair]. AB - The colony forming ability of E. coli mutants defective in DNA repair was compared to that of the parent strain AB 1157 after neocarzinostatin treatment. A recA and a recB mutant were most sensitive. The suppression of the recB mutation in the recBC sbcBC mutant, which is as sensitive as the parent strain, indicates that recB is not the primary pathway by which lesions after NCS treatment are repaired. The survival curve of the recBC recF sbcBC mutant, corresponding to that of the recF mutant, further supports this interpretation. The relative resistance of the recBC recF sbcBC mutant suggests that NCS lesions are not only repaired by the recF and recB pathway. An alternative pathway could be the SOS induction, as a lexA mutant also is sensitive to NCS. The sensitivity of the uvrA and polA xthA mutants, however is explained by the involvement of the uvrA and polA gen products in rec repair. PMID- 2531590 TI - A new method for the investigation of cellular dielectrophoresis. AB - A new method and a new type of measuring-microchamber for the investigation of cellular dielectrophoresis is presented. The method is based on the observation of the trajectory of a single cell in gravitational and electric fields being crossed and orientated perpendicularly to the observation direction. By means of this method the whole dielectrophoretic spectrum ranging from negative to positive dielectrophoresis may be easily and quickly obtained. The experiments carried out on different cell types showed that the dielectrophoretic spectra, as well as the dependence of the critical frequency upon medium conductivity and cell size agree well with the predictions of a new model of the dielectrophoretic mechanism proposed by Sauer. PMID- 2531591 TI - Steroid sulfatase activity in homogenates, microsomes and purified Leydig cells from adult rat testis. AB - Steroid sulfatase (STS) activity was studied in the Long-Evans rat testis. The rate of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHA-S) hydrolysis determined in whole testis homogenates was low compared to that of the corresponding microsomal fractions, which was, in contrast, as high as that expressed in homogenates from purified Leydig cells. Such an increment in STS activity between total homogenates and the corresponding microsomes was not observed for the seminiferous tubules. The STS affinity reported for total testicular microsomes (Km = 3.47 +/- 0.54 microM; mean +/- SEM) was of the same magnitude as that previously reported for Leydig cells, but was about 3 times higher than that measured for whole testis homogenate (Km = 10.11 +/- 0.92 microM). In vivo hCG treatment decreased the STS affinity in total testicular microsomes without affecting this kinetic parameter in whole testis homogenate. These data suggest that the steroid sulfatase expressed in total testicular microsomes (activity and regulation by hCG) could be considered as a good index of Leydig cell STS activity. PMID- 2531592 TI - Treatment of chronic mesenteric ischaemia by percutaneous transluminal angioplasty. PMID- 2531593 TI - A new approach to brain imaging. PMID- 2531594 TI - Detection of Down's syndrome in low risk patients. PMID- 2531595 TI - The ethics of using modern technology for detecting Down's syndrome. PMID- 2531596 TI - Linguistics of nucleotide sequences. I: The significance of deviations from mean statistical characteristics and prediction of the frequencies of occurrence of words. AB - Mathematical models of the generation of genetic texts appeared simultaneously with the first sequencing DNA. They are used to establish functional and evolutionary relations between genetic texts, to predict the number and distribution of specific sites in a sequence and to identify "meaningful" words. The present paper deals with two problems: 1) The significance of deviations from the mean statistical characteristics in a genetic text. Anyone who has addressed himself to the statistical analysis of sequenced DNA is familiar with the question: what deviations from the expected frequencies of occurrence of particular words testify to the "biological" significance of those words? We propose a formula for the variance of the number of word's occurrences in the text, with allowance for word overlaps, making it possible to assess the significance of the deviations from the expected statistical characteristics. 2) A new method for predicting the frequencies of occurrence of particular words in a genetic text using the statistical characteristics of "spaced" L-grams. The method can be used for predicting the number of restriction sites in human DNA and in planning experiments on the physical mapping and sequencing of the human genome. PMID- 2531597 TI - Linguistics of nucleotide sequences. II: Stationary words in genetic texts and the zonal structure of DNA. AB - Words are irregularly distributed in genetic texts. The analysis of this irregularity leads to the notion of stationary and non-stationary words. The polyW and polyS tracts are shown to be the most non-stationary words in genetic texts (here W-[A,T], S-[G,C], a polyW tract is a sequence of A,T nucleotides and a polyS tract is a sequence of G,C nucleotides. The distribution of stationary words suggests a method for partitioning DNA into zones. The zones obtained in the case of the phage are interpreted in the light of the Dowe hypothesis of the modular structure of bacteriophage genomes. PMID- 2531598 TI - The proteins associated with the soluble form of p36, the main target of the src oncogene product in chicken fibroblasts, are glycolytic enzymes. AB - One of the main targets of pp60v-src tyrosine kinase is a 34 to 39-kilodalton protein of chicken embryo fibroblasts called p36 or calpactin I. We have previously reported an association of the cytoplasmic fraction of p36 (10-20% of the total cellular p36) with three chicken polypeptides named p32, p48, and p54. We have now raised and affinity-purified antibodies against each of these proteins. This has allowed their identification: p32 is lactate dehydrogenase, p48 is enolase, and p54 is phosphoglucose isomerase. An association between p36 and two other known substrates of pp60v-src, the glycolytic enzymes enolase and lactate dehydrogenase, suggests a cellular organization of the various targets of the oncogene tyrosine kinases. Furthermore, a possible relationship between p36 and glycolysis is questioned. PMID- 2531599 TI - Immunophenotype analysis of B-CLL lymphoma and immunocytoma. AB - The differential diagnosis between lymphocytic lymphoma of the B-CLL type and immunocytoma (IC) can be difficult when it is based only upon morphological criteria. With the aim of improving the distinction between these subgroups, frozen sections of lymph nodes or other biopsied tissues from 14 cases of B-CLL and 16 cases of IC were investigated according to immunophenotype. A panel of 13 B cell-associated and 2 T cell-associated monoclonal antibodies was used. All but one of the B-CLL cases were FMC7-, while 14/16 IC cases were FMC7+ (p less than 0.001). The two negative IC cases were both of the lymphoplasmacytic type, claimed to be "more differentiated" than the lymphoplasmacytoid type. We suggest that the cells in these cases are mature enough to have lost their FMC7 positivity, similar to plasma cells. There was also a statistically significant (p less than 0.01) difference, although not as pronounced, for the anti-CD38 antibody (Leu-17, B-CLL: 3/14, IC: 10/16 positive). No significant difference in expression of determinants was found for any of the other antibodies. PMID- 2531600 TI - Collaboration between human blood dendritic cells and monocytes in antigen presentation. AB - We compared human blood dendritic cells and monocytes for their capacity to produce secreted and membrane interleukin 1 (IL-1), stimulate mixed leukocyte reaction (MLR) and augment microbial antigen-induced T lymphocyte proliferation. Our enriched dendritic cell and monocyte fractions contained greater than 80% and greater than 93% dendritic cells and monocytes, respectively. Monocytes produced about ten times higher amounts of membrane and secreted IL-1 than dendritic cells, which in turn were more potent in presenting HLA-DR antigens in MLR. Both accessory cell types presented purified protein derivative of tuberculin (PPD) equally well, whereas monocytes were better with fixed Bacillus Calmette Guerin (BCG) bacteria. Processing of BCG was chloroquine-sensitive. Coculture experiments suggested that there was collaboration or synergy between dendritic cells and monocytes in antigen processing and presentation. PMID- 2531601 TI - Communication with deaf people in the surgery setting. AB - The terms impairment, disability and handicap are defined, and related to hearing, and current available statistics on the number of people with hearing impairments in the United Kingdom are considered. The problems of treating people with hearing difficulties are discussed and practical solutions suggested, so that these people need not be handicapped with regard to dental care. PMID- 2531602 TI - 'Dental services for children with mental handicaps: policy changes and parental choices'. PMID- 2531603 TI - Inaccuracies in using aortic valve gradients alone to grade severity of aortic stenosis. AB - The severity of aortic stenosis is an important determinant of prognosis in patients with symptoms who do not undergo valve replacement. To assess the pitfalls of using valve gradients alone 636 patients with aortic stenosis in whom the aortic valve area had been calculated by the Gorlin formula were studied. The correlation between valve area and aortic gradients was poor. No gradient was found that was both sensitive and specific for aortic stenosis. The maximum predictive accuracy was 81% for a mean gradient of 30 mm Hg and 80% for a peak gradient of 30 mm Hg. A mean gradient of 50 mm Hg or a peak gradient of 60 mm Hg were specific with a 90% or more positive predictive value. It proved difficult, however, to find a lower limit with a 90% negative predictive value. Patients with severe aortic stenosis and low gradients (peak or mean gradient of less than 30 mm Hg) had small ventricles (on both angiographic and echocardiographic data) with good ejection fractions and so were unlikely to be detected subjectively. In comparison patients with mild aortic stenosis and low gradients tended to have more aortic regurgitation but have similar degrees of left ventricular hypertrophy on echocardiographic or electrocardiographic criteria. The aortic valve area should be measured in all patients with the suspicion of severe aortic stenosis with a mean gradient of less than 50 mm Hg (50% of patients in this study) or a peak gradient of less than 60 mm Hg (47% of patients in this study). PMID- 2531604 TI - Atrial natriuretic peptide and urinary prostaglandins in man. AB - 1. In order to assess the effects of atrial natriuretic factor on the renal biosynthesis of prostaglandins (PG), the urinary excretion of PGE2, PGF2 alpha, 6 keto-PGF1 alpha and thromboxane (Tx)B2 were followed in eight salt-loaded healthy volunteers infused for 2 h with a non hypotensive dose of human atrial natriuretic peptide (hANP, 0.7 nmol min-1). 2. Within 1 h, hANP, infusion produced a marked increase in the urinary PG output, especially of PGE2 and 6 keto-PGF1 alpha (188 +/- 21% and 202 +/- 24% of the pre-infusion values respectively), followed by a significant decrease during the recovery period. 3. No correlations could be uncovered between the urinary excretion of sodium and that of any of the PGs. In contrast, during the infusion of hANP, the urinary output of PGE2 and of 6-keto-PGF1 alpha was found positively related to the urinary flow rate (r = 0.42; P less than 0.05; n = 32 and r = 0.43; P less than 0.05; n = 32 respectively) as well as during the recovery period (r = 0.66, P less than 0.001; n = 32 and r = 0.55; P less than 0.01; n = 32 respectively). 4. It was concluded that, in man, infusion of a non hypotensive dose of hANP is followed by a rise in urinary PG excretion presumably reflecting enhanced renal PG biosynthesis. This increased urinary PG excretion does not seem to be involved in the natriuretic action of hANP but might participate to its diuretic effect. PMID- 2531605 TI - Concentration-effect relationships and individual responses to doxazosin in essential hypertension. AB - 1. This study investigates aspects of the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and concentration-effect relationships in 10 patients with essential hypertension during acute and chronic treatment with doxazosin, an alpha 1-adrenoceptor antagonist. 2. Following the first dose of doxazosin (2 mg) there were significant reductions in blood pressure, increases in heart rate and in plasma noradrenaline, and parallel rightward shifts of the phenylephrine pressor response curves, consistent with alpha-adrenoceptor antagonism. There was no significant change in the pressor response to angiotensin II. 3. Using an integrated kinetic-dynamic model, individual blood pressure responsiveness was characterised as the fall in blood pressure (mm Hg) per unit drug concentration. Responsiveness to the first dose of doxazosin was directly correlated with the responsiveness after 1 and 6 weeks treatment although there was a systemic reduction (of approximately 30%) which occurred during the first week of treatment. 4. Neither the acute nor long-term responsiveness to doxazosin was related to age, plasma renin activity, plasma noradrenaline or the pretreatment sensitivity to phenylephrine. There was a significant relationship between responsiveness and the height of the initial (pretreatment) blood pressure. 5. Integration of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data provides a reproducible index of responsiveness which can be used to investigate the consistency of the long-term anti-hypertensive response, to identify factors which influence the magnitude of the response, and to optimise the choice of dose and dose interval. PMID- 2531606 TI - The effect of the circadian rhythm of vagal activity on bronchomotor tone in asthma. AB - 1. The effect of the diurnal activity of the parasympathetic nervous system on bronchomotor tone and heart rate was studied in seven asthmatics with nocturnal asthma using both intravenous atropine and nebulised ipratropium at 04.00 h and 16.00 h. 2. A diurnal variation in vagal activity was demonstrated with higher vagal activity occurring at night. 3. There was a strong correlation between the initial response of both airway calibre and heart rate to vagal block both at 04.00 h and 16.00 h. However the duration of bronchodilation after vagal block was greater than with the heart rate suggesting differing sensitivities of pulmonary and cardiac muscarinic receptors to anticholinergic antagonists. 4. The bronchodilation seen after ipratropium was less than that after atropine suggesting that the intravenous route is preferable to study the physiological effect of vagal block in vivo. PMID- 2531608 TI - The effect of oral cilazapril and prazosin on the constrictor effects of locally infused angiotensin I and noradrenaline in human dorsal hand veins. AB - The effects of the ACE inhibitor cilazapril (5 mg p.o.) and the alpha 1 adrenoceptor blocker prazosin (2 mg p.o.) were investigated on the dose-response curves to angiotensin I and to noradrenaline, administered locally in the hand veins in six healthy male volunteers in doses not producing systemic effects. Both angiotensin I and noradrenaline produced a dose-dependent constriction of the congested veins. The angiotensin I effects were completely abolished after the administration of cilazapril but not significantly altered after the administration of prazosin. The noradrenaline dose-response curves were shifted to the right (dose ratio about 10) by prazosin, but not by cilazapril. The data suggest that angiotensin I, after having been converted to angiotensin II exerts direct venoconstrictor effects which under resting conditions are not mediated by noradrenaline release. PMID- 2531609 TI - Treatment of laparoscopically confirmed endometriosis with danazol. PMID- 2531607 TI - Differences in the serum binding determinants of isradipine and darodipine- consequences for serum protein binding in various diseases. AB - 1. Serum protein binding of isradipine and darodipine, and serum concentrations of alpha 1-acid glycoprotein (AAG), albumin (HSA) and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) were measured in three groups of patients, I: healthy subjects (n = 20); II: patients with inflammatory disorders (n = 15) and III: patients with hepatic insufficiency (n = 17). 2. AAG was increased significantly in group II patients (P less than 0.001) and decreased in group III patients (P less than 0.001); HSA was decreased significantly in group II and group III patients (P less than 0.001). 3. The free percentage of isradipine was decreased significantly in group II patients (P less than 0.05) and increased in group III patients (P less than 0.05) and multivariate analysis showed that these variations were inversely related to changes in AAG concentration. 4. The free percentage of darodipine was increased significantly in group II and III patients (P less than 0.05) due to a decrease in HSA concentration, as shown by multivariate analysis. 5. The changes in free serum percentages of isradipine and darodipine were inversely related to concomitant changes in the concentration of the serum protein for which they showed the highest affinity, AAG for isradipine and HSA for darodipine, respectively. 6. The unexplained variability in the binding data was greater when AAG was the major determinant of binding (isradipine). PMID- 2531610 TI - Medroxyprogesterone acetate in the treatment of pelvic pain due to venous congestion. AB - Ovarian function was suppressed with 30 mg of medroxyprogesterone acetate, daily for 6 months, in 22 women with lower abdominal pain due to pelvic congestion. There was reduction in pelvic congestion demonstrated by venography in 17 of the 22 women, and in 16 this was associated with induction of amenorrhoea which suggests that effective ovarian suppression is an important component of successful treatment. In the 17 women who showed a reduction in venogram score, the median change in pain score was 75% compared with only 29% in the five women with no change in venogram score (P less than 0.01). This significant association between reduction in pelvic congestion and pain indicates that pelvic congestion is likely to be the cause of pain in these women and that treatment with medroxyprogesterone acetate could be of value. PMID- 2531611 TI - A randomized controlled trial of medroxyprogesterone acetate and psychotherapy for the treatment of pelvic congestion. AB - The value of medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) and of psychotherapy in the treatment of lower abdominal pain due to pelvic congestion was assessed in a randomized controlled trial. Eighty-four women with abnormal pelvic venography were assigned to one of four treatment groups: MPA alone, MPA plus psychotherapy, placebo alone, and placebo plus psychotherapy. Women were treated for 4 months and thereafter followed up regularly for 9 months with pain assessments, pelvic ultrasound scanning, and hormone measurements. During treatment, MPA showed a significant benefit in terms of a reduction in visual analogue scale pain score, with 73% of women reporting at least 50% improvement compared with 33% of those treated with placebo. At 9 months after the end of therapy there was no overall significant effect of MPA or psychotherapy, but there was an interaction between MPA and psychotherapy, with 71% of the women in this group showing a greater than or equal to 50% reduction in pain score. Therapy with MPA is a useful first-line therapy for women with pain associated with demonstrable pelvic congestion. PMID- 2531612 TI - Conformational changes of (Ca2+-Mg2+)-ATPase of erythrocyte plasma membrane caused by calmodulin and phosphatidylserine as revealed by circular dichroism and fluorescence studies. AB - Two spectroscopic techniques, circular dichroism and steady-state fluorescence, were employed in order to study conformational changes of the purified, detergent solubilized (Ca2+-Mg2+)-ATPase of porcine erythrocyte ghost membranes. Circular dichroism (CD) spectra in the peptide region were obtained from the purified (Ca2+-Mg2+)-ATPase of porcine erythrocyte ghost membranes with the aim to investigate the secondary structure of the enzyme in the presence of calmodulin (CaM) or phosphatidylserine (PS), as well as in the E1 and E2 states. The E1 conformation was stabilized by 10 microM free Ca2+, while the E2 conformation was stabilized by 0.1 mM ethylene glycol bis(2-aminoethyl ether)-N,N,N',N' tetraacetic acid (EGTA). It was found that the E1 and E2 states of the enzyme strikingly differed in their secondary structure (66% and 46% of calculated alpha helix content, respectively). In the presence of Ca2+, PS decreased the helical content of the ATPase to 61%, while CaM to 55%. Quenching of intrinsic fluorescence of (Ca2+-Mg2+)-ATPase by acrylamide, performed in the presence of Ca2+, gave evidence for a single class of tryptophan residues with Stern-Volmer constant (KSV) of 10 M-1. Accessibility of tryptophan residues varied depending on the conformational status of the enzyme. Addition of PS and CaM decreased the KSV value to 7.6 M-1 and 8.5 M-1, respectively. In the absence of Ca2+, KSV was 7.0 M-1. KI and CsCl were less effective as quenchers. The fluorescence energy transfer between (Ca2+-Mg2+)-ATPase tryptophan residues and dansyl derivative of covalently labeled CaM occurred in the presence of EGTA, but was further promoted by Ca2+. It is concluded that the interaction of CaM and PS with (Ca2+-Mg2+) ATPase results in different conformational states of the enzyme. CD and fluorescence spectroscopy allowed to distinguish these states from the E1 and E2 conformational forms of the ATPase. PMID- 2531613 TI - Preparation of an affinity chromatography matrix for the selective purification of the dopamine D2 receptor from bovine striatal membranes. AB - A ligand affinity matrix has been developed and utilized to purify the dopamine D2 receptor approx. 2100 fold from bovine striatal membranes. 3-[2-Aminoethyl]-8 [3-(4-fluorobenzoyl)propyl]-4-oxo-1-phenyl-1,3,8- triazaspiro[4.5]decan-4-one (AES) was synthesized and used to prepare the affinity matrix by coupling to epoxy-activated Sepharose 6B (AES-Sepharose). AES (Ki approximately 1.7 nM) is similar in potency to the parent compound, spiperone (Ki approximately 0.8 nM), in competing for [3H]spiperone-binding activity. AES has no significant potency in competing for the dopamine D1 receptor as assessed by competition for [3H]SCH23390 binding (Ki greater than 1 microM). Covalent photoaffinity labeling of the dopamine D2 receptor in bovine striatal membranes with N-(p-azido-m [125I]iodophenethyl)spiperone [( 125I]N3-NAPS) was prevented by AES at nanomolar concentrations. The dopamine D2 receptor was solubilized from bovine striatal membranes using 0.25% cholate in the presence of high ionic strength, followed by precipitation and subsequent treatment with 0.5% digitonin. Nearly 100% of the [3H]spiperone-binding activity in the cholate-digitonin solubilized preparation was absorbed at a receptor-to-resin ratio of 2:1 (v/v). Dopamine D2 receptor was eluted from the affinity resin using a competing dopaminergic antagonist molecule, haloperidol. Recovery of dopamine D2 receptor activity from the affinity matrix was approx. 9% of the activity adsorbed to the resin. The [3H]spiperone-binding activity in AES-Sepharose affinity purified preparations is saturable and of high affinity (0.2 nM). Affinity-purified preparations maintain the ligand-binding characteristics of a dopamine D2 receptor as assessed by agonist and antagonist competition for [3H]spiperone binding. PMID- 2531614 TI - The glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol anchor of membrane proteins. PMID- 2531615 TI - [Affinity modification of myosin with protected active centers: confirmation of the existence of an allosteric substrate-binding segment]. AB - The effect of an affinity modifier of myosin ATPase representing a mixed anhydride of AMP and mesitylene carboxylic acid (AMP-MA) on myosin with protected active centers was studied. The protection of active centers was performed by the method of Wells et al. Which consists in the stabilization of the myosin-MgADP complex in the enzyme active center by way of cross-linking of the active center with a Co-phenanthroline complex simultaneously interacting with two SH-groups of the protein. Myosin with protected active center completely loses its ability to hydrolyze ATP; however, it can be reactivated by way of SH-group reduction with a subsequent MgADP release from the active centers. Treatment of myosin with protected active centers with AMP-MA does not result in the reduction of the enzyme activity after removal of the Co-phenanthroline complex. This suggests that the irreversible inhibition of myosin ATPase by AMP-MA occurs due to the protein modification outside the active center(s), which provides support for our earlier made conclusion concerning the existence of an additional (with respect to active centers) substrate-binding site in the myosin molecule. PMID- 2531616 TI - [Interaction of ATPase from submitochondrial fragments and a natural inhibitor protein during delta-mu-H+ generation on a membrane]. AB - An addition of the inhibitor protein (IF1) to submitochondrial particles (SMP) essentially free of endogenous IF1 (AS-SMP) results in a synchroneous inhibition of ATP hydrolysis and ATP-dependent reduction of NAD+ by succinate without any effect on the oxidative phosphorylation rate. The binding of IF1 to the membrane bound ATPase leads to the loss of the inhibitor protein sensitivity to trypsin despite the delta mu H+ generation. The data obtained are consistent with a model according to which there exist the hydrolase and synthetase forms of F1 and contradict the generally accepted concepts on the delta mu H+-dependent dissociation of the F1-IF1 complex. PMID- 2531617 TI - Doppler velocimetry measurements of phototactic response in flagellated algae. AB - A periodic shading mechanism (about 0.5 s period) is believed to be used by flagellated algae to detect light direction. Time changes in the orientation of a population of Haematococcus pluvialis under positive photoaxis conditions (cell samples were stimulated alternatively by two diametrically opposed beams of actinic light), have been investigated by analysing the Doppler shifts of laser light scattered by the cells by means of heterodyne detection techniques. This technique allows us to measure the mean value of the component of the cells' swimming velocities along the light stimulus axis. Preliminary data indicate that the time taken by a cell population to change orientation is about 1 s. PMID- 2531618 TI - Bronchodilator effect of atrial natriuretic peptide in asthma. PMID- 2531619 TI - Depot medroxyprogesterone and risk of breast cancer. PMID- 2531620 TI - Acid phosphatase (EC 3.1.3.2) synthesis by phosphorus regulatory mutant strains of Neurospora crassa. AB - 1. Even though altered forms of acid phosphatase II were synthesized by the mutant strains nuc-1A and nuc-2A of N. crassa, their synthesis was independent of exogenous phosphate concentrations. 2. Synthesis of acid phosphatase I by nuc-2A was also insensitive to exogenous phosphate concentrations. When nuc-1A was grown on a low-phosphate medium, it also produced a heat-labile acid phosphatase in addition to a I-like acid phosphatase. I-like acid phosphatase was not detected in the mycelium of the pregc mutant strain grown on low-phosphate medium. 3. These results are consistent with the participation of the nuc-2, preg and nuc-1 genes in regulating the transport and/or secretion of acid phosphatase and probably other phosphatases by Neurospora crassa. PMID- 2531621 TI - Morphometric evaluation of the time course of right ventricular hypertrophy after left coronary artery ligation in rats. AB - 1. In order to describe the time course of compensatory right ventricular hypertrophy after infarction, rats submitted to left coronary obstruction and sham-operated controls were compared in terms of heart weight, chamber weight and right ventricular fiber diameter 1, 8 and 21 days after surgery. 2. One day after infarction, only the left ventricle weight increased (0.583 +/- 0.045 g vs 0.698 +/- 0.062 g, P less than 0.05), while right ventricular weight and fiber diameter suffered no change. 3. Eight days after infarction, heart weight (0.781 +/- 0.127 g vs 0.856 +/- 0.100 g, P greater than 0.05) as well as right ventricular fiber diameter (16.5 +/- 1.0 microns vs 17.5 +/- 2.1 microns, P greater than 0.05) and left ventricular weight did not differ between sham-operated animals and animals with left coronary obstruction. However, a significant increase in right ventricular weight was observed in infarcted animals (0.168 +/- 0.026 g vs 0.242 +/- 0.017 g, P less than 0.05). 4. Twenty-one days after infarction, right ventricular weight (0.198 +/- 0.034 g vs 0.316 +/- 0.118 g, P less than 0.05), heart weight (0.864 +/- 0.095 g vs 0.985 +/- 0.105 g, P less than 0.05) and right ventricular fiber diameter (15.0 +/- 1.8 microns vs 21.3 +/- 2.3 microns, P less than 0.05) were significantly increased in infarcted animals, whereas left ventricular weight (0.665 +/- 0.065 g vs 0.669 +/- 0.039 g, P greater than 0.05) was unchanged. 5. We conclude that hypertrophy occurs in the right ventricle of randomized infarcted rats 21 days after infarction, and that this phenomenon precedes the increase in fiber diameter.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID- 2531622 TI - Effects of potassium channel toxins from Leiurus quinquestriatus hebraeus venom on responses to cromakalim in rabbit blood vessels. AB - 1. The effects of fractionated Leiurus quinquestriatus hebraeus venom on cromakalim-induced 86Rb+ efflux in rabbit aortic smooth muscle were examined. 2. Crude venom (0.1-30 micrograms ml-1) produced a concentration-dependent decrease of 1 microM cromakalim-induced 86Rb+ response. The maximum blocking activity attainable was approximately 60%. 3. Fractionation of crude venom by gel permeation chromatography and subsequent chromatography on a cation ion-exchange column, produced two fractions (X and XI), active in the 86Rb+ blocking assay. 4. Fraction XII contained charybdotoxin (approximately 85% pure). After a final high performance liquid chromatography (h.p.l.c.) purification step, the purified toxin failed to inhibit the cromakalim-stimulated 86Rb+ efflux although it was a potent inhibitor of A23187-induced K+ flux in human erythrocytes and the large conductance calcium-activated potassium channel in rabbit portal vein smooth muscle. 5. Subsequent purification of fraction X by h.p.l.c. yielded a minor peak which contained 86Rb+ blocking activity. This subfraction was also capable of inhibiting apamin-sensitive, angiotensin II-stimulated K+ flux in guinea-pig hepatocytes. 6. It is concluded that the potassium channel opened by cromakalim in rabbit aortic smooth muscle is not blocked by charybdotoxin but by another distinct toxin in the venom of Leiurus quinquestriatus hebraeus. PMID- 2531623 TI - Effects of putative activators of K+ channels in mouse pancreatic beta-cells. AB - 1 The vasodilator and antihypertensive properties of pinacidil, cromakalim (BRL 34915), nicorandil and minoxidil sulphate may be due, at least in part, to their ability to open K+ channels in vascular smooth muscles. In this study, mouse pancreatic islets were used to determine whether these drugs affect insulin release by acting on K+ channels of beta-cells. Their effects were compared to those of diazoxide. 2 Diazoxide caused a dose-dependent inhibition of insulin release by islets incubated with 15 mM glucose (93% at 100 microM). Pinacidil inhibited release by 36 and 72% at 100 and 500 microM, respectively. Cromakalim and nicorandil were less effective (35 and 25% inhibition at 500 microM). Minoxidil sulphate increased insulin release at 500 microM. 3 In the presence of 7 mM glucose and in the absence of Ca2+ (to avoid activation of Ca2+-dependent K+ channels), 86Rb efflux from islet cells was increased by 100-500 microM pinacidil and 500 microM nicorandil, which were, however, less potent than diazoxide. Cromakalim was ineffective, whereas 500 microM minoxidil sulphate decreased the efflux rate. In the absence of glucose and presence of Ca2+, 500 microM cromakalim and minoxidil sulphate inhibited 86Rb efflux. 4 Like diazoxide, pinacidil (500 microM) abolished glucose-induced electrical activity in beta cells and hyperpolarized the membrane. 5 ATP-sensitive K+ currents were studied in single beta-cells by the whole cell patch-clamp technique. Pinacidil increased the current less than did diazoxide. In contrast, cromakalim and minoxidil sulphate decreased K+-currents whilst nicorandil was without effect. 6. It is concluded that pinacidil, like diazoxide, inhibits insulin release from beta l cells by opening ATP-sensitive K+ channels, whereas the smaller inhibitory effects of cromakalim and nicorandil may involve actions other than on K+ channels in these cells. Minoxidil sulphate potentiates glucose-induced insulin release, probably by inhibiting ATP-sensitive K+ channels. However, all these effects of the vasodilators are only seen at high concentrations and are thus unlikely to occur in vivo. PMID- 2531624 TI - Agoraphobia, back pain and rheumatic diseases. PMID- 2531625 TI - Role of fibronectin in adhesion, migration, and metastasis. PMID- 2531626 TI - [Infection of T lymphocytes by Trypanosoma cruzi. Possible role of CD3 and HLA DR]. AB - The mechanisms by which the causative agent of Chagas' disease impair its host's immune response are of paramount importance but poorly understood. Results presented in this paper show for the first time that Trypanosoma cruzi trypomastigotes infect T lymphocytes in vitro and more interestingly in vivo, and that trypomastigotes released from infected cells are infectious. In addition treatment of purified human T lymphocytes with McAb against CD3 and HLA-DR antigens significantly inhibited parasite infection. T. cruzi antigens were detected on the membrane of infected T cells and could therefore represents targets for cytotoxic mechanisms. These results might have important consequences for the understanding of the dramatic disruption of immune response observed during Chagas' disease and more generally provide additional information on T lymphocyte infection by pathogens. PMID- 2531627 TI - Preliminary assessment of a Haemophilus parasuis bacterin for use in specific pathogen free swine. AB - A whole cell formalin killed trivalent Haemophilus parasuis bacterin was tested for efficacy in four week old, weaned specific pathogen free pigs challenged under laboratory conditions. The vaccine contained three field strains of H. parasuis selected from confirmed cases of Glasser's disease. Two different formulations were evaluated in separate trials. In trial 1, ten pigs received 5 mL of bacterin subcutaneously in the neck, followed by a second 5 mL dose two weeks later. Another ten pigs served as nonvaccinated controls. One week after the second dose, all pigs were subjected to an aerosol challenge containing the strains of H. parasuis present in the vaccine. In trial 2, a broth rather than a saline based vaccine was prepared, and tested as in trial 1. In both trials, the vaccinated pigs remained healthy postchallenge, while eight of nine (Trial 1) and eight of ten (Trial 2) nonvaccinated pigs succumbed to Glasser's disease. PMID- 2531628 TI - [The influence of previous infections on the development of experimental swine pleuropneumonia in specific pathogen free pigs]. AB - This study was designed to determine in six-week old specific pathogen free pigs, the effect of previous experimental exposure to Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae and transmissible gastroenteritis virus on a challenge infection with Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae. Pigs exposed simultaneously to M. hyopneumoniae and transmissible gastroenteritis virus appeared more resistant to challenge (one week later) with A. pleuropneumoniae. Four pigs out of a group of ten died following the challenge infection, compared to all ten pigs in the control group not submitted to previous infections. Clinical signs and lesions were also less severe in the previously infected group than in the control group. Pigs submitted to a single previous infection with M. hyopneumoniae only appeared to be less resistant to the challenge infection than pigs submitted to the dual previous infection with M. hyopneumoniae and the transmissible gastroenteritis virus. A correlation was found between the resistance of pigs to the challenge infection and their serum gammaglobulin levels. PMID- 2531629 TI - Comparison of conventional and long-acting oxytetracyclines in prevention of induced Actinobacillus (Haemophilus) pleuropneumoniae infection of growing swine. AB - These experiments tested the hypothesis that long-acting oxytetracycline (oxytetracycline-LA) was more effective than regular oxytetracycline in preventing porcine pleuropneumonia when administered either 24 or 48 h prior to experimental challenge with virulent strains of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae. Two experiments (1 and 2) were conducted using growing pigs (average weight 12-15 kg). Antibiotic treatments were administered once intramuscularly at 20 mg/kg body weight; controls received an equivalent volume of saline. Clinical signs were recorded over seven days, and mortality rates and pathological lesions were analyzed using analysis of variance. Serum oxytetracycline levels were compared 48 and 72 h postinjection. All pigs developed clinical disease following experimental infection. Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae was recovered from 42% of experiment 1 pigs and all of experiment 2 pigs. The data showed that both oxytetracycline and oxytetracycline-LA given at the same dose protected pigs against experimental infection when given 24 h prior to challenge, and there was no difference between the efficacy of the two drugs in this experiment. When administered 48 h prior to challenge, only oxytetracycline-LA reduced the clinical signs and pathological changes following A. pleuropneumoniae challenge. Between 48 and 72 h postinjection, oxytetracycline-LA blood levels were significantly greater compared to oxytetracycline-treated pigs. PMID- 2531630 TI - Waterbeds and low back pain? PMID- 2531631 TI - Hypertrophy induced alteration of action potential and effects of the inhibition of angiotensin converting enzyme by perindopril in infarcted rat hearts. AB - Not much is known about alterations in electrical activity in the healthy part of a heart made hypertrophic as a result of local ischaemia, yet such an investigation might allow us to predict the stages leading to cardiac failure and so aid its prevention. We therefore studied the electrophysiological changes which occurred in rats in which ligation of the left coronary artery had produced hypertrophy of the non-infarcted myocardium. One month after the intervention the overall degree of hypertrophy of the ventricles reached 15.3%. This was accompanied in the healthy part of the left ventricle (septum) by altered electrical activity consisting of a lengthening of the action potentials at 25, 50, 75 and 90% of repolarisation. Myocardial hypertrophy was absent after chronic treatment of the animals with perindopril, an angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor, given orally at 2 mg.kg-1 body weight, and the electrophysiological alterations induced by the infarct were partially eliminated: phase 2 of the myocardial action potential was shortened and phase 3 completely restored. We postulate that angiotensin may have a direct effect on the cardiac cell. PMID- 2531632 TI - Comparison of myocardial changes between pressure induced hypertrophy and normal growth in the rat heart. AB - To evaluate differences in tissue composition between hearts with pressure overload hypertrophy and normal hearts of comparable weight, 30 rat hearts with aortic constriction of 4, 10 and 30 days, and nine hearts of sham operated controls were studied. Surgery was performed at age 70 days. Morphometric analysis of myocardial tissue sections revealed (1) myocyte hypertrophy in left ventricular myocardium of hypertrophic hearts was proportional to heart weight, and in normal growth myocyte volume increased in proportion to heart weight; (2) myocyte number in left ventricular myocardium was identical in hypertrophic and normal hearts; (3) non-muscle cell proliferation was proportional to heart weight identically in hypertrophic and normal hearts; (4) volume fractions of myocytes were significantly lower in hypertrophic hearts [0.76(SD 0.05)] than in normal hearts [0.82(0.04)]; (5) volume fractions of all nuclei, myocyte nuclei and non myocyte nuclei were similar in hypertrophic and normal hearts; (6) measured ventricular DNA content increased with heart weight identically in hypertrophic and normal hearts, and equalled DNA content calculated using the data on tissue composition. Neither right ventricular weight nor right ventricular DNA content were affected by the presence of left ventricular hypertrophy. We conclude that left ventricular hypertrophy due to aortic constriction in the rat resulted in changes of myocardial tissue composition similar to the changes associated with normal growth. Tissue composition of hypertrophic rat hearts corresponds strikingly to that of normal rat hearts with comparable heart weight, although myocardial changes in hypertrophy develop considerably faster than in normal growth. PMID- 2531633 TI - One-dimensional diffusion of microtubules bound to flagellar dynein. AB - Dynein is a multisubunit ATPase that powers microtubule-based motility. We find that a dissociated dynein particle containing the beta heavy chain subunit translocates microtubules unidirectionally over a glass surface in the presence of ATP. However, after nucleotide hydrolysis is inhibited by vanadate, unidirectional translocation ceases, and microtubules instead undergo irregular back-and-forth motion along their longitudinal axes. Quantitative analysis reveals that this motion is due to thermal-driven diffusion, but, unlike a particle undergoing Brownian motion, the diffusion is restricted to one dimension. The properties of the diffusional movement indicate that dynein can interact with microtubules in a way that permits the latter to diffuse only along their longitudinal axes. This weak binding interaction may constitute an important intermediate state in dynein's force-generating cycle. PMID- 2531634 TI - Role of phospholipase A2 in the stimulation of sponge cell proliferation by homologous lectin. AB - Using the Geodia cydonium system, we showed that after incubation of competent sponge cells in the presence of lectin, phospholipase A2 was released from the cells. The substrates for this enzyme, phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylcholine, were identified in the extracellular material of sponge tissue. In addition, the phospholipase A2 inhibitor calelectrin was identified by immunobiochemical techniques; this molecule was associated with the aggregation factor. Reconstitution experiments strongly suggested that phospholipase A2 catalyzed the release of arachidonic acid, which is then taken up by the cells. Intracellularly, arachidonic acid was metabolized primarily to prostaglandin E2. Inhibition studies revealed that prostaglandin E2 is involved in the ultimate increase of DNA synthesis. These findings suggest that the phospholipase A2 arachidonic acid system is involved in the matrix-initiated signal transduction pathway in sponges. PMID- 2531635 TI - Inhibition of aflatoxin B1 binding to hepatic DNA by dehydroepiandrosterone in vivo. AB - Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) a naturally occurring steroid, has been reported to inhibit the binding of N-dimethylnitrosamine and 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene to DNA in vivo and to increase glutathione transferase activity. In this study, we have investigated if DHEA could protect hepatic DNA from damage by the potent hepatocarcinogen aflatoxin B1 (AFB1). Young male Fischer 344 (2-month-old) rats were fed a diet containing 0.8% DHEA for 14 days. Control rats were pair-fed the same diet without DHEA. The rats were then administered a single i.p. dose of [3H]AFB1 in dimethylsulfoxide (0.6 mg/kg body weight; 200 mCi/mmol) and killed after 3 h. Liver weight, mitochondrial, microsomal and cytosolic protein, cytochrome P450 content and glutathione transferase activity increased significantly (P less than 0.001) in DHEA-fed rats; however, the hepatic DNA content was not altered. DHEA feeding increased the total amount of AFB1 bound to hepatic protein but decreased the extent of DNA binding. In in vitro experiments, there was less total binding to DNA and protein by AFB1 when using microsomes from DHEA-fed rats. These results suggest that DHEA inhibits the binding of AFB1 to DNA by modifying the biotransformation of the carcinogen. PMID- 2531636 TI - Knowledge, attitude, and the decision to be tested for Huntington's disease. AB - In September 1986, the Baltimore Huntington's Disease Project initiated a voluntary program of presymptomatic genetic testing for Huntington's Disease (HD). Forty-seven persons at 50% risk for HD attended one of two educational sessions designed to educate them about the test. At the beginning and end of each session, subjects completed the Affect Adjective Checklist and a set of questions assessing knowledge about and attitude toward presymptomatic testing. As a result of attending an educational session, subjects learned more about presymptomatic testing, and their attitude towards finding out whether they had the marker for the HD gene became more favorable. Fewer people requested genetic testing than expected. Those who later chose to undergo genetic testing had a more favorable attitude at both the beginning and at the end of the educational session. The significance of these data for genetic counselors is discussed. PMID- 2531637 TI - How much disability is caused by acne? AB - One-hundred patients completed a questionnaire designed to assess the disability resulting from acne; patient acne severity was also graded clinically. Ten questions which correlated strongly with clinical acne severity were used to form an Acne Disability Index (ADI). This ADI correlated with the severity of facial acne (r = 0.246, P less than 0.01), chest acne (r = 0.347, P less than 0.001) and back acne (r = 0.436, P less than 0.001). Measures were made of the financial value to patients of acne treatment: when hypothetically offered either a cure for their acne or 500 pounds, 87% of patients preferred the treatment rather than the money. All 13 patients who stated a preference for the 500 pounds had minimal acne. There is no correlation between the clinical grading of acne and the amount patients would be prepared to pay for a hypothetical cure but there is a correlation between the acne disability score and the amount patients would pay (r = 0.229, P less than 0.05). PMID- 2531638 TI - Dermatophyte onychomycosis in children. AB - Four-hundred and ninety-four schoolchildren and 200 children attending a paediatric medical out-patient clinic were screened for clinical evidence of dermatophyte onychomycosis. Only one case was found and mycological investigation showed this to be due to Trichophyton rubrum. The overall prevalence of dermatophyte onychomycosis in the prospective survey of schoolchildren was 0.2%, confirming that this type of infection is very uncommon in children. Seven further cases of nail infection occurring in children under the age of 12 years are reported. These represent all cases collected by our laboratory over a 3-year period. In six cases where culture of nail was positive, the causative organism was T. rubrum. In four cases at least one parent was also found to have dermatophyte onychomycosis; again, T. rubrum was the causative organism in all cases. Dermatophyte onychomycosis in children appears to be of low infectivity, (in contrast to viral wart infection), and a parental source should be suspected and sought. PMID- 2531639 TI - Episodic erythema gyratum repens with ichthyosis and palmoplantar hyperkeratosis without signs of internal malignancy. AB - Two patients with typical lesions of erythema gyratum repens, peripheral ichthyosis, palmoplantar hyperkeratosis and nail changes are described. A non specific erythrodermic eruption of several weeks' duration had preceded the typical lesions. No signs of internal malignancy were found and the typical gyrate lesions disappeared within some weeks with full restitution of all skin lesions within 6-8 months. PMID- 2531640 TI - Erythema multiforme-like eruptions associated with etretinate therapy. AB - Mucocutaneous side-effects from etretinate are common and are usually dose dependent, whereas hypersensitivity drug eruptions are rare. Two patients are described in whom erythema multiforme-like eruptions appeared several days after oral intake of etretinate. In one patient etretinate rechallenge again produced the skin eruption. A brief review of the less common skin manifestations of etretinate therapy is provided. PMID- 2531641 TI - Keratoderma palmoplantaris striata. AB - A patient with keratoderma palmoplantaris striata is presented. In the family tree there are 36 relatives affected to a varying degree. The familial incidence is the largest reported in the literature reviewed. The response to etretinate was excellent, controlling the lesions with minimal side-effects. PMID- 2531642 TI - Paraneoplastic rhinophyma and the Leser-Trelat sign. AB - A case of the Leser-Trelat sign associated with an underlying malignant haemangiopericytoma is described. In addition, the patient had profound hypoglycaemia and a rhinophyma-like nasal swelling which rapidly resolved post operatively. The tumour appeared to be secreting a factor(s) which cross-reacted with both insulin receptors to induce hypoglycaemia and epidermal growth factor receptors inducing a profusion of eruptive seborrhoeic warts. It aslo had marked sebotrophic activity. The association of the Leser-Trelat sign with malignant haemangiopericytoma has not previously been described. PMID- 2531643 TI - A family with palmoplantar epidermolytic hyperkeratosis. AB - Familial epidermolytic hyperkeratosis confined to the palms and soles was first characterized by Klaus and Weinstein in 1970. This entity has been the subject of only four subsequent reports. We report a family previously diagnosed as suffering from tylosis (Thost Unna syndrome), in which eleven members have been affected, and review the literature on this disease. It would seem possible that this entity may be more common than the sparse literature would indicate, and that other cases may currently be masquerading as tylosis. PMID- 2531644 TI - Down's syndrome and pityriasis rubra pilaris. PMID- 2531645 TI - Keratoderma in association with myxedema. PMID- 2531646 TI - Immunoglobulin deficiency in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. AB - Hypergammaglobulinemia is a common laboratory finding in patients with active systemic lupus erythematosus; in contrast, immunoglobulin deficiency, except for immunoglobulin A, is unusual. We report 18 patients who developed low immunoglobulin G levels 4 months to 22 years (median = 4 years) following the diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus. This phenomenon was transient in 10 patients (median duration 10.5 months). Eight patients had received cytotoxic drugs prior to the development of hypogammaglobulinemia, while all had received prednisone. The nadir levels of serum IgG were 132-550 mg/dl (median = 363 mg/dl). The presence and degree of immunoglobulin G deficiency did not correlate, in general, with the type or dose of medication. None of the patients had renal failure. Only 4 patients developed recurrent infections. Urinary loss of protein was not a cause of this disorder. Study of the in vitro cellular immune responses of peripheral blood lymphocytes in 5 patients showed that excessive 'suppressor' T cell activity and decreased numbers of B cells may be responsible for the development of immunoglobulin deficiency. Serum immunoglobulin levels should not be employed as an indication of disease activity in systemic lupus erythematosus, as all 18 patients continued to have significant clinical disease. Deficiencies of immunoglobulins are often transient and may not require treatment. PMID- 2531648 TI - British Diabetic Association, Medical and Scientific Section, autumn meeting. 7-9 September 1989, Nottingham. Abstracts. PMID- 2531647 TI - Perinatal management of congenital diaphragmatic hernia and anterior abdominal wall defects. AB - The prenatal diagnosis and antepartum management of congenital diaphragmatic hernia and anterior abdominal wall defects are reviewed. In addition, the intrapartum and neonatal considerations and management strategies are discussed. PMID- 2531649 TI - 6-Phosphofructo-1-kinase isoenzymes of the jejunal mucosa of rabbit, rat and mouse. AB - 1. 6-Phosphofructo-1-kinase (PFK) isoenzymes were studied in the jejunal mucosa of rabbit, rat and mouse. 2. The rat mucosal enzyme was found to be very similar to, although not identical with, the mouse mucosal enzyme, as the physical and regulatory properties of these two enzymes were nearly similar except that the immunological studies were dissimilar. 3. PFK prepared from rabbit mucosa showed different and distinct properties from the rat and mouse mucosal PFK when studied by (NH4)2SO4-precipitation, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, immunological cross-reactivity and regulatory properties. 4. The difference between the rabbit enzyme and the rat or mouse enzymes is suggested to be due to the lower rate of glycolysis observed in the rabbit jejunal mucosa as the total enzyme activities of the rabbit were found to be less than half of those activities of the rat and mouse mucosa. 5. The dissimilarities among the species in mucosal isoenzymes obtained in the present study are rather expected since the term isoenzyme is now properly reserved for forms that have been shown to be genetically distinct as shown for different tissues in the same species. Such multigenic control does not appear to have been established for the same tissue in different species. PMID- 2531650 TI - Disability: wheelchair comfort. PMID- 2531651 TI - Measurement techniques for urodynamic investigations. AB - Important measurement techniques for investigating lower urinary tract function are flow and pressure measurements. The demands on urinary flowmeters and the measurement principles of balance type, rotating disc, dipstick, and air displacement type are described. Urological pressure measurements are performed in the bladder, in the urethra, and in the abdominal cavity. Various fluid-filled and microtransducer systems are reviewed and demands for performance given. Differences in measuring a mechanical pressure, like in the urethra, and a fluid pressure in the bladder are discussed. Electromyography (EMG) technique is used to investigate various neurological disturbances in the lower urinary tract. The electrode technique is also described. Furthermore, techniques for incontinence detection are reviewed. PMID- 2531652 TI - [Streptococcus mutans glucosyltransferase: isolation and its ability to synthesize polysaccharides]. AB - The extracellular glucosyltransferases (GTF, EC 2.4.1.5) were extracted from trypticase yeast L-cystine culture supernatant of streptococcus mutans strains SSMC 167(g), 6715(g), SSMC 100 (c) and Ingbritt (c) by 60% saturated ammonium sulphate precipitation. The yield was more than 50%. All the enzyme preparations could synthesize both water-soluble and insoluble glucans. The results of polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of enzyme preparations illustrated the complexity and multicomponent nature of the GTF of S. mutans. The abilities of synthesizing polysaccharides were different between S. mutans serotype g and serotype c. The ability of synthesizing water-soluble glucan was almost the same as that of synthesizing water-insoluble glucan for GTFs from the two S. mutans strains of serotype g, but the ability of synthesizing water-soluble glucan was 10-fold to that of synthesizing water-insoluble glucan for GTFs from other two strains serotype c. No frucotosyltransferase activity was found. PMID- 2531653 TI - Change in motor neurone activity modifies the differentiation of a slow muscle in chick embryo. AB - Slow-tonic anterior latissimus dorsi (ALD) muscle properties were studied following chronic spinal cord stimulation in chick embryo. Stimulation at a fast rhythm was applied from day 7, 8 or 10 of development until the end of embryonic life. When stimulation was applied from day 7 up to day 18 of development, ALD muscle exhibited at day 18 a large decrease in half time to peak of tetanic contraction, a large proportion of fast type II fibres and an increase in fast myosin light chain content as compared to control muscle. When stimulation started at day 8 of development, changes in properties of ALD muscle were reduced when compared to the previous experimental series. Indeed, no fast type II fibres were observed within the muscle, even when stimulation was prolongated until the 20th day of embryonic development. In addition, chronic stimulation at a fast rhythm initiated at day 10 of development did not modify ALD muscle differentiation. The present results indicate that a fast pattern of motor neurone activity can induce some slow-to-fast transformations of ALD muscle fibres. However, after the first week of embryonic life, ALD myotubes appeared refractory to these transformations. The possible mechanisms responsible for the transformation of slow myotubes and for their further loss of plasticity are discussed. PMID- 2531654 TI - The small nuclear RNAs for pre-mRNA splicing are coordinately regulated during oocyte maturation and early embryogenesis in the mouse. AB - The abundance and localization of snRNAs and snRNPs involved in processing and splicing of pre-mRNA has been studied during early mouse embryogenesis. The amount of U1, U2, U4, U5 and U6 RNA remains relatively constant between the postovulatory oocyte and 2-cell stage but increases three- to ten-fold in quantity between the 2-cell and blastocyst stages. Localization was examined by in situ hybridization with U1, U2 and U6 riboprobes and immunofluorescence microscopy using a monoclonal antibody to snRNP antigens. The snRNAs and snRNPs are primarily localized to the germinal vesicle in the preovulatory oocyte but are released and diluted within the cytoplasm of the oocyte during germinal vesicle breakdown and meiotic maturation. They subsequently relocalize to both pronuclei following fertilization and the nuclei of the 2-cell embryo following the first cleavage division. Since the amount of snRNA is constant during the first cleavage, the small amount of pre-mRNA that is synthesized at the time of transcriptional activation in the 2-cell embryo may be spliced and processed by snRNPs of maternal origin. PMID- 2531655 TI - Surgical treatment of an abdominal abscess by marsupialisation in the horse: a report of two cases. PMID- 2531656 TI - The dopamine D2 receptor: two molecular forms generated by alternative splicing. AB - Cloned human dopamine D2 receptor cDNA was isolated from a pituitary cDNA library and found to encode an additional 29 amino acid residues in the predicted intracellular domain between transmembrane regions 5 and 6 relative to a previously described rat brain D2 receptor. Results from polymerase chain reactions as well as in situ hybridization revealed that mRNA encoding both receptor forms is present in pituitary and brain of both rat and man. The larger form was predominant in these tissues and, as shown in the rat, expressed by dopaminergic and dopaminoceptive neurons. Analysis of the human gene showed that the additional peptide sequence is encoded by a separate exon. Hence, the two receptor forms are generated by differential splicing possibly to permit coupling to different G proteins. Both receptors expressed in cultured mammalian cells bind [3H]spiperone with high affinity and inhibit adenylyl cyclase, as expected of the D2 receptor subtype. PMID- 2531657 TI - Lipoprotein(a) binds to fibronectin and has serine proteinase activity capable of cleaving it. AB - The plasma concentration of human lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is correlated with the risk of heart disease. A distinct feature of the Lp(a) particle is the apolipoprotein (a) [apo(a)], which is associated with apoB-100, the main protein component of low-density lipoprotein. We now report that apo(a), which has extensive homology to plasminogen, binds to immobilized fibronectin. The binding of Lp(a) was localized to the C-terminal heparin-binding domain of fibronectin. Incubation of Lp(a) with fibronectin resulted in fragmentation of fibronectin. The cleavage pattern, as visualized by gel electrophoresis and immunoblotting, was reproducibly obtained with Lp(a) purified from five different individuals and was distinct from that obtained upon proteolysis of fibronectin by plasmin or kallikrein. The use of synthetic peptide substrates demonstrated that the amino acid specificity for Lp(a) was arginine rather than lysine. The proteolytic activity of Lp(a) was localized to apo(a) and experiments with inhibitors indicated that the proteolytic activity was of serine proteinase-type. PMID- 2531658 TI - Identification of the RNA binding segment of human U1 A protein and definition of its binding site on U1 snRNA. AB - The interaction between the U1 snRNP-specific U1 A protein and U1 snRNA has been analysed. The binding site for the protein on the RNA is shown to be in hairpin II, which extends from positions 48 to 91 in the RNA. Within this hairpin the evolutionarily conserved loop sequence is crucial for interaction with U1 A protein. U1 A protein can also bind the loop sequence when it is part of an artificial RNA which cannot form a stable hairpin structure. The region of the protein required to bind to U1 snRNA consists of a conserved 80 amino acid motif, previously identified in many ribonucleoprotein (RNP) proteins, together with (maximally) 11 N-terminal and 10 C-terminal flanking amino acids. Point mutations introduced into two of the most highly conserved regions of this motif abolish RNA binding. U1 snRNA mutants from which the U1 A binding site has been deleted are shown to be capable of assembly into RNP particles which are immunoprecipitable by patient antisera which recognize U1 A protein. The role of RNA-protein and protein-protein interactions in U snRNP assembly are discussed. PMID- 2531659 TI - Mapping U2 snRNP--pre-mRNA interactions using biotinylated oligonucleotides made of 2'-OMe RNA. AB - Biotinylated 2'-OMe RNA oligonucleotides complementary to two separate regions of human U2 snRNA have been used as affinity probes to study U2 snRNP--pre-mRNA interactions. Both oligonucleotides bind specifically and allow highly selective removal of U2 snRNP from HeLa cell nuclear extracts. Pre-mRNA substrates can also be specifically affinity selected through oligonucleotides binding to U2 snRNP particles in splicing complexes. Stable binding of U2 snRNP to pre-mRNA is blocked by the pre-binding of an oligonucleotide to the branch site complementary region of U2 snRNA, but not by an oligonucleotide binding to the 5' terminus of U2. Both oligonucleotides affinity select the intron product, but not the intron intermediate, when added after spliceosome assembly has taken place. The effect of 2'-OMe RNA oligonucleotides on splicing complex formation has been used to demonstrate that complexes containing U2 snRNP and unspliced pre-mRNA are precursors to functional spliceosomes. PMID- 2531660 TI - An abundant U6 snRNP found in germ cells and embryos of Xenopus laevis. AB - The particle state of U snRNPs was analyzed in oocytes, eggs, embryos and testes from Xenopus laevis. In each case both the relative abundance and the composition of some U snRNPs were found to differ from that of somatic cells. U2 and U6 snRNPs were the most prominent U snRNPs in germ cells and early embryos. In particular, the concentration of U6 snRNA was 10-20 times higher than that of U4 snRNA. Most of the U6 snRNA was not associated with U4 snRNA and migrated on sucrose gradients as a U6 snRNP. The structure of this novel U snRNP was analyzed. A single protein of 50 kd was copurified with U6 snRNPs by a combination of gradient fractionation, immunodepletion with anti-Sm antibodies and immunoprecipitation with anti-6-methyl adenosine antibodies. Although the U6 snRNP did not contain Sm proteins it migrated into the nucleus when U6 snRNA was injected into the cytoplasm of oocytes. Two U6 snRNA elements have been identified. The first is essential for nuclear migration in oocytes, but not for the formation of U4/6 snRNPs in vitro and might be the binding site of a U6 specific protein. The second element was required for interaction with U4 snRNPs but not for nuclear targeting. PMID- 2531662 TI - P22 repressor mutants deficient in co-operative binding and DNA loop formation. AB - We show here, both in vivo and in vitro, that P22 repressor binds co-operatively to operator sites separated by an integral number of turns of the DNA helix. We measure this co-operativity in vivo using an assay in which repression of a promoter requires co-operative binding of P22 repressors to two separated (non adjacent) operator sites. We report the isolation of mutant repressors that have high affinity for single operator sites, but are defective in co-operative binding. Six different mutants, all bearing single amino acid changes in the carboxyl domain, have been isolated. We purified the two mutants most deficient in co-operative binding, and found that they bind non-co-operatively in vitro to adjacent as well as to non-adjacent pairs of operator sites. PMID- 2531663 TI - Induction and stability of the adult myosin phenotype in striated muscles of dwarf mice after chronic thyroid hormone treatment. AB - It is known that a deficiency in thyroid hormone delays the post-natal maturation of several mammalian tissues. In striated muscle tissue, hypothyroidism delays or inhibits some of the isoform transitions of myosin heavy chains which would occur during normal development. In this paper, using the mouse mutant dwarf, we demonstrate an influence of thyroid hormone on expression of the myosin phenotype in cardiac and skeletal muscle of dwarf mice. Myosin isoforms were identified by gel electrophoresis of native myosin, localised within muscle cells by indirect immunofluorescence and quantified using an ELISA technique. We show that an adult phenotype can be established in both cardiac and skeletal muscle following a treatment involving multiple injections of thyroxine although cardiac muscle responds more rapidly. The skeletal myosin phenotype remains stable until at least five weeks after the last injection. In contrast, the fetal form of cardiac myosin reaccumulates upon cessation of thyroxine treatment. Thus, cardiac and skeletal muscles are not only affected differently by the dwarf mutation but also they respond differently to thyroxine treatment and thyroxine withdrawal. PMID- 2531664 TI - Isolation, characterization and immunocytochemical localization of caldesmon-like protein from molluscan striated muscle. AB - A 140-kDa polypeptide present in the striated muscle of Pecten maximus and Sepia officinalis was purified to homogeneity and its main properties were investigated using biochemical and cytochemical approaches. The protein was found to be similar to chicken gizzard caldesmon. It is a heat-stable protein. It cross reacts immunologically with anti-(gizzard caldesmon) antibody, binds to calmodulin-Sepharose in a Ca2+-dependent manner, cosediments with F-actin filaments and acts in the absence and presence of tropomyosin as a potent inhibitor of rabbit skeletal actomyosin Mg2+-ATPase. The immunocytochemistry of ultrathin sections revealed, at the light microscopy resolution level, that caldesmon-like protein is present in all types of muscles hitherto examined from invertebrates and vertebrates. However, according to the distribution and the intensity of the fluorescent reaction, we concluded that, under our experimental conditions, caldesmon is not homogeneously distributed and not located in the myofibrillar bands of striated muscles but rather in the sarcoplasmic elements, at the periphery of the fibres. PMID- 2531661 TI - TPA can overcome the requirement for EIa and together act synergistically in stimulating expression of the adenovirus EIII promoter. AB - We have examined the control of gene expression from the adenovirus early region III (Ad-EIII) promoter, which contains two previously defined elements, the AP1 and ATF sites. We found that the AP1 element is capable of mediating activation by the adenovirus immediate early (EIa) gene products. Consistent with studies demonstrating that the AP1 site mediates signal transduction in response to 12-O tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate (TPA) we have shown that TPA can activate Ad-EIII expression and overcome the requirement for EIa. Together TPA and EIa elicited a synergistic response in expression from the Ad-EIII promoter during both transient expression assays and viral infections. This synergistic effect required the AP1 element. An EIII promoter construct, in which sequences upstream of the TATA box had been replaced with four AP1 sites, was responsive to TPA and EIa and in combination promoted the synergistic effect. The analysis of specific factors involved in transcription from the Ad-EIII indicated that proteins recognizing the ATF and AP1 sites were important in expression from this promoter in vitro. Purification of protein factors that specifically stimulated EIII expression resulted in the isolation of a set of factors of the AP1 family. Affinity purified AP1 recognized and activated transcription through both the AP1 and ATF elements. In addition, a protein fraction was identified with DNA binding activity specific for the ATF element. This fraction was dependent on the ATF site for transcriptional activity. PMID- 2531665 TI - Osteomyelitis-like bone lesions in acne fulminans. AB - Two young males with acne fulminans (AF) are described. In addition to severe skin lesions, they had musculoskeletal symptoms including bacteriologically negative osteolytic lesions in the clavicles. Both patients received antibiotics for suspected septic infections. The response was unsatisfactory in both patients, and combination treatment with prednisolone was started. A favourable response was observed, and a relapse occurring in the first patient was controlled by steroids alone. The possible pathomechanism of bone lesions in AF is discussed. PMID- 2531666 TI - Hypogammaglobulinaemia in DiGeorge sequence. PMID- 2531667 TI - Preparation of diastereomeric beta-d-glucuronides of the bronchodilator procaterol using immobilized rabbit liver microsomal enzymes. AB - Liver microsomal pellets from a phenobarbital induced New Zealand white male rabbit were prepared, solubilized, and reacted with cyanogen bromide activated Sepharose beads to form an immobilized microsomal enzyme preparation. Viability of bound enzymes was determined using established methods. Racemic erythro-[3H] procaterol hydrochloride was incubated with immobilized microsomal enzymes at room temperature in 0.1 M potassium phosphate buffer (pH 7.4) together with cofactors magnesium chloride and UDPGA for 16 h. The incubation mixture was filtered and the filtrate fractionated by a C18 solid phase extraction procedure. Two polar reaction products were isolated and characterized by TLC, HPLC-RAM (homogeneous flow-through radioactivity detection), [1H]-NMR, and Fast-Atom Bombardment mass spectrometry as diastereomeric aryl-O-glucuronides of erythro procaterol. Based on HPLC-RAM analysis, glucuronidation of racemic procaterol proceeds with regiostereoselectivity. In addition, both diastereomers are formed in nearly equal amounts indicating lack of enantioselectivity in this reaction. Combined yield of both diastereomers was approx. 60%. PMID- 2531668 TI - Testicular changes after treatment with a GnRH analog (buserelin) in association with cyproterone acetate in men with prostatic cancer. AB - Twelve patients (age range: 53-78 years) with prostatic cancer were treated with Buserelin (1.2 mg/day) and cyproterone acetate (150 mg/day). Testicular biopsies performed after 13-96 weeks of treatment were compared to those obtained from 6 untreated men of similar age. Deranged spermatogenesis was observed in all but 1 treated patient. The appearance of immature Sertoli cells and atrophic Leydig cells suggests a condition of pharmacologic 'hypophysectomy'. The variable damage to the seminiferous epithelium and findings of an incomplete involution of Leydig cells suggested a decreased but still present testicular steroidogenesis. PMID- 2531669 TI - Early presence of activated ('exhausted') platelets in malignant tumors (breast adenocarcinoma and malignant melanoma). AB - To evaluate whether or not the finding of platelet activation in patients with tumors is related to the stage of malignancy, a study of biochemical markers indicative of the presence of circulating activated ('exhausted') platelets was carried out in 95 untreated patients with breast adenocarcinoma or malignant melanoma, localized or spread to regional lymph nodes with no detectable distant metastasis. These tumors were chosen as examples of tumors which can be accurately staged for localization or spread, and as examples of mucin-secreting tumors (breast adenocarcinoma) or neuroectodermic tumors (malignant melanoma). Results were compared with those for 26 patients with benign breast disease, 23 blood donors and 50 hospital workers. The most frequent abnormalities were low levels of intraplatelet ADP and 5-hydroxytryptamine and high ATP/ADP ratios. Although these abnormalities occurred with both types of tumor, they were more frequent and marked for melanomas and breast carcinomas spread to regional lymph nodes. Our data indicate that the presence of exhausted platelets is an early finding in patients with malignant tumors. PMID- 2531670 TI - Phase I-II trial of doxifluridine (5'DFUR) administered as long-term continuous infusion using a portable infusion pump for advanced colorectal cancer. AB - Doxifluridine, a new fluoropyrimidine analog, was administered to 21 patients with advanced colorectal carcinoma. The starting dose was 1.0 g/m2 given over 24 h for 90 consecutive days as a continuous infusion. Due to severe skin reactions (hand-foot syndrome), the dose was reduced stepwise to 0.75 g/m2/day. Twenty patients were evaluable for efficacy, one had an early non-toxic death. Seven out of 20 (35%) showed a partial response; disease stabilization was observed in 10 patients (50%) and three showed progressive disease after 3 months of treatment. All 17 patients who achieved a partial response or a stabilization of disease were treated until progressive disease was documented and some had therapy up to 46 weeks. Toxicity was minimal and mainly defined as hand-foot syndrome which occurred in 50% of the patients of whom three experienced severe reaction. There was no myelosuppression, renal or liver dysfunction, no cardiac alterations and only one patient experienced severe dizziness. Doxifluridine is active in advanced colorectal carcinoma when the drug is given as a continuous infusion for 90 consecutive days at a daily dose of 0.75 g/m2. PMID- 2531671 TI - Treatment of advanced endometrial adenocarcinoma with cyclic sequential ethinyl estradiol and medroxyprogesterone acetate. AB - Fifteen patients with recurrent or progressive endometrial adenocarcinoma of moderate to poor histologic differentiation were entered in a phase II trial of sequentially administered oral ethinyl estradiol and medroxyprogesterone acetate. There were no significant clinical responses in 12 patients evaluated for response and four patients experienced thromboembolic complications. This cyclic treatment regimen is considered ineffective for this patient population at the dosages and schedules used. PMID- 2531672 TI - The action of organic mercury compounds on the function of isolated mammalian heart muscle. AB - The effects of four organic mercury compounds (methylmercuric chloride; bromomercurihydroypropane, BMHP; chlormerodrin; p-chloromercuribenzoic acid, PCMB) on mechanical and electrical functions of guinea-pig papillary muscles were investigated. An initial decline in contraction force was followed by a transient positive inotropic response. The first was accompanied by a shortening of the action-potential duration and by a reduction of the depolarization velocity and the duration of the Ca2+-dependent slow response. The latter was characterized by an indirect component (release of noradrenaline) and by a direct component, which was dependent on the stimulation rate and on the extracellular concentration of Na+ and K+. The direct positive effect, therefore, was likely to have resulted from inhibition of the sarcolemmal Na+ + K+-ATPase. This notion was confirmed by experiments with isolated membrane particles. The prevalence of the negative or positive inotropic action of these compounds could be ascribed to their lipophilic or hydrophilic properties, respectively. PMID- 2531673 TI - [Mortality in relation to the type of economic activity and occupation in the Turinese longitudinal study]. AB - Occupational surveillance systems, which examine mortality patterns by occupation or industry, may contribute to hypothesis generation and priority setting for occupational cancer research and control. In the City of Torino the Local Population and Family Register records and the Census records are matchable through a computerized record linkage procedure. Since the early 1980's we have incorporated demographic events, occurring among residents, into the Census data source, covering birth, death and migration. This paper deals with the occupational mortality, from 1981 to 1985, of 262, 314 men and 146, 125 women, aged 15-64, who held a job at the 1981 Census. Mortality from 31 selected causes of death, including 22 cancer sites, among individuals employed in specific occupations (64 categories) and economic activities (80 categories) was compared with the mortality experienced by the whole cohort of active people. The surveillance design does not take into account potential confounders such as cigarette smoking, alcohol and previous work history. Despite the short duration of follow-up, some occupation-cancer associations, consistently documented in others surveillance studies, have been detected in our study: lung cancer among motor vehicle drivers (SMR 143, 27 obs), metal molders (SMR 178, 8 obs), welders (SMR 241, 7 obs) and wood workers (SMR 218, 12 obs), leukemias and electrical workers (SMR 367, 6 obs). PMID- 2531674 TI - [Reliability and completeness of an integrated epidemiologic system of acute viral hepatitis]. AB - An integrated epidemiological system for the surveillance of acute viral hepatitis (Seiva) has been performed in Italy. Aim of the present work is to evaluate diagnostic completeness and reliability of the surveillance system in the Piedmont Region. Results show that 15% of Acute Viral Hepatitis are not reported by the system and that the potential diagnostic errors are 7.3% of the cases. PMID- 2531675 TI - [Habits and opinions about cigarette smoking among medical, nursing and technico administrative staff at the Magenta Hospital (Local Health Unit no. 72)]. AB - Smoking habits of 882 employees of Magenta general hospital (province of Milan) (135 doctors, 594 nurses and 153 technicians and clerical staff) were investigated in May 1986, by means of a self-administered questionnaire (response rate 84%). Forty-five percent of men and 34% of women reported to be current smokers, respectively 13% fewer and 41% more, after age-standardization, than the general population of the same province. Smoking habits of the three professional groups considered did not differ substantially, but a higher number of doctors as compared to nurses admitted to smoke occasionally in front of patients. The vast majority (80%) agreed with a total ban of smoking inside the hospital but the underestimation of smoking-related health hazards, especially outside the cancer field, turned out to be also very common. Only 34% of doctors, 13% of nurses and 16% of technical and clerical staff identified smoking as the leading preventable cause of death in Italy. PMID- 2531676 TI - [Protocol and feasibility of a randomized controlled study on preventing the smoking habit in adolescents]. AB - As no similar study has been conducted in Italy, the Local Health District (USL) of Rozzano (Milano), decided to carry on a randomized controlled trial on the efficacy of a Smoking Prevention Program. In this article we describe study protocol and give data related to program steps already carried out. A team of four MDs involved in school health and a Health Research consultant were in charge for the study. 1013 students from the second class of the secondary school (12y age) were stratified into four subgroups, according to their risk of becoming a smoker and their teachers smoking status. They were subsequently randomized (with blocking) to two groups: the smoking prevention (which was based on the Waterloo Smoking Program) and the cardiovascular risk prevention (based on an ad hoc program by the USL) which was the control group. Both interventions consisted in six weekly lessons which were delivered in 37 classrooms (777 students or 61% of all the eligible student population, 72% of randomized students) by an equal number of teacher who voluntarily joined the program, during school hours. A larger number of teachers (53) formerly joined the program but not all accomplished it. Problems with program planning and delivering are described, together with the criteria which guided this approach. PMID- 2531677 TI - [Experimentation on a mail questionnaire for a case-control study]. AB - A mail questionnaire, collecting information mainly on occupational history, was sent to 50 subjects who had been interviewed at home with a longer questionnaire three years before, and to 26 subjects who refused at that time to be interviewed. The 50 subjects were sampled among controls enrolled in a population based case-control study on soft tissue sarcomas; the 26 were all non-respondent controls in the same study. The questionnaire was returned by 83% and 14% respectively. A comparison between home and mail interviews suggests that the quality of information is strictly comparable for 78% of the items. For discordant items, about 50% showed a better quality of information from home interviews; in the other 50% a better information was provided by the mail interview. PMID- 2531678 TI - [Surveillance systems in occupational environmental health: documentation notes]. AB - The surveillance of occupationally related disease is a research topic in many countries. A working group on the information system within the Italian Association for Occupational Health has recently proposed to reorganize the national surveillance system. In Epidemiologia e Prevenzione a series of contributions relevant to this issue will be published. This paper reviews the on going research in our country and abroad (United States, United Kingdom, Scandinavian Countries and Canada). PMID- 2531679 TI - Effect of fluorodeoxyuridine on neurons and non-neuronal cells in cerebral explants. AB - Fetal rat brain neurons are reported to show enhanced neurite development when treated with the mitotic inhibitors fluorodeoxyuridine (FUdR) or cytosine arabinoside (AraC). For AraC-treated rat cerebral explants, increased neurite growth occurs along with a change in the composition of the non-neuronal cell population and diminished non-neuronal cell proliferation. FUdR-treated rat cerebral explants were therefore cultured in an attempt to determine whether FUdR encourages neurite outgrowth by changing the composition and number of non neuronal cells. Quantitative morphological analyses revealed a significant decrease in the incidence of non-neuronal cells, and an increase in neurite outgrowth for the FUdR-treated explants. These explants also exhibited an increased proportion of protoplasmic astrocytic-epithelial cells and a decreased proportion of fibroblastic-reactive microglial cells. Thus, FUdR may encourage neurite outgrowth through a curtailment of non-neuronal cell proliferation (primarily by fibroblastic-reactive microglial cells) and through the creation of a non-neuronal cell environment consisting almost entirely of protoplasmic astrocytes. PMID- 2531680 TI - Intercostal and abdominal muscle afferent influence on caudal medullary expiratory neurons that drive abdominal muscles. AB - Our objective was to determine if caudal ventral respiratory group (VRG) expiratory (E) neurons that drive abdominal expiratory motoneurons in the lumbar cord respond to intercostal and lumbar nerve afferent stimulation. Results showed that 92% of medullary E-neurons that were antidromically activated from the upper lumbar cord reduced their activity in response to stimulation of external and internal intercostal and lumbar nerve afferents. We conclude that afferent information from intercostal and abdominal muscle tendon organs has an inhibitory effect on caudal VRG E-neurons that drive abdominal expiratory motoneurons. PMID- 2531681 TI - Inhibition of the first phosphodiester bond formation catalyzed by Escherichia coli RNA polymerase in the presence of bovine seminal plasmin: promoter dependency. AB - Inhibition of the abortive initiation of transcription catalyzed by E. coli RNA polymerase has been studied here in the presence of bovine seminal plasmin. Seminal plasmin, which is known to be a stronger inhibitor than rifampicin binds at the same site as rifampicin to RNA polymerase. However, unlike rifampicin, seminal plasmin showed the inhibition of the formation of both the first and second phosphodiester bonds. We observed, in vitro, that the degree of inhibition of transcription was different at different promoters. Thus, the percent of inhibition of transcription initiation by seminal plasmin was much less at r-RNA promoters in comparison to that at the early promoters of bacteriophage T7. PMID- 2531682 TI - [Konstantin Davidovich Eristavi (on the centenary of his birth)]. PMID- 2531683 TI - Twenty-four-hour urinary-free cortisol in premenopausal cigarette smokers and nonsmokers. AB - Cigarette smoking has been reported to produce acute increases in plasma ACTH and cortisol, but the effect of chronic smoking on integrated adrenal steroid production has not been studied. The effects of chronic smoking on 24-hour urinary-free cortisol, 11-deoxycortisol, DHEAS, and 17-keto-steroids were studied in 10 premenopausal smokers, and their results were compared with 15 premenopausal nonsmokers. The 24-hour excretion of urinary-free cortisol (85.0 +/ 40.8 nmol/d in smokers versus 81.7 +/- 49.7 nmol/d in nonsmokers), 11 deoxycortisol (259 +/- 170 nmol/d in smokers versus 222 +/- 147 nmol/d in nonsmokers), DHEAS (3,140 +/- 2,909 nmol/d in smokers versus 2,890 +/- 1,960 nmol/d in nonsmokers), and 17-ketosteroids (17.4 +/- 8.3 mumol/d in smokers versus 23.4 +/- 19.9 mumol/d in nonsmokers) were similar in smokers and nonsmokers (all P values not significant). We conclude that chronic smoking does not result in abnormal levels of 24-hour urinary-free cortisol. PMID- 2531684 TI - Estrogenic action of tamoxifen in women treated with luteinizing hormone releasing hormone agonists (goserelin)--lack of shrinkage of uterine fibroids. AB - Six premenopausal women with uterine fibroids were treated with a combination of tamoxifen, 20 mg/d, and goserelin, 3.6 mg every 28 days, for a total of 24 weeks. Results were compared with those from six women, matched for pretreatment uterine volume, who had been treated with goserelin alone. During combined therapy, plasma and urinary estrogen concentrations were significantly lower than during goserelin alone, whereas sex hormone binding globulin concentrations were significantly higher. Plasma luteinizing hormone and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) concentrations were both suppressed, in contrast with results during goserelin alone when FSH levels remained within the pretreatment range. None of the women on combined therapy bled in response to the endocrine changes of the initial treatment cycle. Despite this profound pituitary-ovarian suppression, there was no significant change in uterine volume during combined therapy. These results suggest that tamoxifen is acting as an estrogen agonist in women rendered hypoestrogenic with luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone agonists. PMID- 2531685 TI - [The number and ultrastructure of CD4+ lymphocytes in the blood of healthy persons and in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus]. AB - The flowing cytofluorometric and electron microscopic methods have been used to study the content and ultrastructure of blood CD4 lymphocytes in healthy and type I diabetic patients. Analysis of submicroscopic structure of the lymphocytes expressing CD4 antigen has revealed its morphological heterogeneity. It has permitted distinguishing four groups of cells. A decrease of the content of CD4+ lymphocytes at the expense of the first group cells and relative increase in the number of the fourth-group cells are observed in the majority of diabetic patients. The availability of parallel-tubular structures in granules forming clusters and first-group lymphocytes, an increase in the number and size of granules of the fourth-group are the most typical changes of ultrastructural characteristics. PMID- 2531686 TI - [Immunologic status in physiological pregnancy]. AB - The levels of T gamma- and T mu-lymphocytes, functional activity of ConA-induced T-suppressors and the concentrations of SP1 and SP3 were determined in 164 normal pregnant women during 8-40 weeks of gestation. It is found that formation of the suppressor dominant is necessary for the immunological maintenance during 8-32 weeks of gestation. This dominant is intended to block superfluous maternal immune response to fetal alloantigens. The formation of such a dominant is evoked by high functional activity of ConA-induced T-suppressors and high levels of T gamma-lymphocytes with immunodeficiency of T mu-cells. Results of correlation analysis have shown a relationship between functional activity of T-suppressors and accumulation of two specific pregnancy proteins. It permits determining physiological role of SP1 and SP3 as natural endogenous immunoregulators of T suppressors. PMID- 2531687 TI - [Presence of atrial natriuretic peptide in canine cerebrospinal fluid and its origin]. AB - The purposes of the present study are to demonstrate the presence of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) in canine cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and to determine its origin as either the brain or atrium. Fifty-seven mongrel canines weighing from 7.5 to 23.0kg (male: 28, female: 29) were anesthetized with sodium pentobarbital (30mg/mg, iv) and were ventilated with a Harvard respirator. 16 canines (11.5 to 16.0kg) were used to examine the effect of endogenously increased plasma ANP level on the ANP concentration of the CSF in acute heart failure induced by experimental aortic regurgitation. Subsequently to examine the effect of exogenously increased plasma ANP level on the ANP concentration of the CSF, physiological and pharmacological doses of synthetic human alpha-ANP were continuously infused into the right ventricle (25ng/kg/min. and 250ng/kg/min., respectively) for 32 min. in 15 canines (8.0 to 23.0kg), only physiological dose (25ng/kg/min.) was infused for 180 min. in 8 canines (12.5 to 23.0kg). The concentrations of ANP in canine CSF and plasma were measured by our highly sensitive and specific radioimmunoassay (RIA). The molecular forms in the plasma, CSF and the atrium and hypothalamus tissues were determined by gel permeation chromatography (GPC). The ANP concentration in CSF was 2.8 +/- 1.2pg/ml (mean +/- SD), lower than that in the plasma which was 51.5 +/- 19.9pg/ml, and no correlation was found between them (r = 0.16, p = ns). Plasma ANP concentrations increased from 46.5 +/- 13.0pg/ml to 94.6 +/- 27.7pg/ml according to a rise of the left atrial pressure by experimental aortic regurgitation. However, no significant change was noted from 3.7 +/- 0.7pg/ml to 3.8 +/- 1.0pg/ml in CSF ANP concentrations during the aortic regurgitation. The ANP concentration in the CSF did not change significantly while the plasma ANP concentration greatly increased following each intravenous infusion of the synthetic alpha-ANP. Only a single peak corresponding to a low molecular weight form of ANP in the position of authentic alpha-ANP in the canine CSF was observed by GPC, while there were peaks for both low and high molecular forms of ANP in the canine plasma. Furthermore, both low and high molecular weight peaks were observed for the right atrium and hypothalamus tissue extracts by GPC, and those tissues of the right atrium and hypothalamus contained ANP concentrations of 1.97ng/mg wet tissue and 2.6pg/ml wet tissue, respectively. These results indicate the presence of ANP in canine CSF and that it does not come from blood that has seeped across the blood-CSF barriers but may originate in the brain. PMID- 2531688 TI - [Do Varicosan bandages really rarely cause contact eczema? Case report of allergic contact dermatitis caused by propyl hydroxybenzoate following the use of Varicosan bandages]. AB - We report on a female patient with a severe allergic contact dermatitis of the lower legs due to Varicosan, a special bandage material for varicosis. We found a sensitization against methyl- and propylesters of parahydroxybenzoic acid. This preservatives could be identified in Varicosan bandages. PMID- 2531689 TI - Phosphorylation of 6-phosphofructokinase in rat lung. AB - 1. 6-Phosphofructokinase of both fetal and adult rat lung consists of L, M and C subunits in a ratio of 65:25:10. 2. 6-Phosphofructokinase was purified to homogeneity from adult rat lung and subjected to phosphorylation in vitro by the catalytic subunit of cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase. 3. This resulted in phosphorylation of the L and M subunit of 6-phosphofructokinase. 4. The C subunit was not phosphorylated. 5. However, if the phosphorylation of 6 phosphofructokinase was studied in the cytosol fraction of either fetal or adult lung using endogenous protein kinase(s), only the L subunit was phosphorylated. 6. This phosphorylation was dependent on cyclic AMP. 7. No influence of calcium, calmodulin or phosphatidylserine/diolein on the phosphorylation was observed. 8. It is concluded that although both L and M subunits of rat lung 6 phosphofructokinase are potential substrates for cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase, their phosphorylation in situ is differentially regulated. PMID- 2531691 TI - Lysosomal degradation of Asn-linked glycoproteins. AB - Catabolism of Asn-linked glycoproteins to monosaccharides and amino acids occurs in lysosomes. Break-down must be complete to avoid lysosomal storage diseases that occur when fragments as small as dimers are left undigested. Recent results have clarified several aspects of Asn-linked glycoprotein catabolism in mammals. First, degradation of the oligosaccharide portion is accomplished by exo glycosidases, which act only from the nonreducing end of chains to release sugar monomers as products. In contrast, proteolysis can proceed from both end and internal points along the polypeptide to eventually yield free amino acids. A second important feature of the glycoprotein disassembly pathway is that the hydrolytic steps can be grouped into two sets of ordered reactions: I) stepwise hydrolysis of the major portion of the oligosaccharide chains by a set of exoglycosidases, and II) ordered disassembly of the protein and the oligosaccharide-to-protein linkage region. Process II can vary at a single reaction step depending on the species in which degradation takes place. Thus, the last step of reaction sequence II can be either: 1) hydrolysis of the actual peptide-to-carbohydrate linkage, or 2) removal of the reducing-end GlcNAc from a previously freed oligosaccharide. The latter cleavage is catalyzed by the lysosomal glycosidase chitobiase. Chitobiase has been found only in humans and rats and not in other mammals (dogs, cats, goats, sheep, cats, or cattle). The hydrolytic mechanism of this enzyme is unique as it appears to be a reducing-end glycosidase and can be viewed as an accessory step in the human and rat digestive pathways. The species that lack this enzyme likely rely on exo-beta-D glucosaminidase to cleave GlcNAc from both outer chain residues and the chitobiose moiety at the protein-to-carbohydrate linkage. PMID- 2531690 TI - Loss of heparan sulphate proteoglycan and retinal microinfarcts in diabetes mellitus. PMID- 2531692 TI - The testes of moles (Talpa europaea) retain a considerable microsomal capacity for androgen synthesis during seasonal regression. AB - Seasonal changes in testicular histology and steroidogenesis were investigated in the mole (Talpa europaea). Androgen synthesis was examined by incubating [4 14C]pregnenolone (P) and [4-14C]dehydroepiandrosterone (DHA) with testicular minces in a static incubation system. The metabolites formed were characterized by thin-layer chromatography. Morphological changes were studied by routine histological methods. During sexual quiescence spermatogenesis was arrested. The regressive seminiferous tubules consisted predominantly of Sertoli cells and spermatogonia. On the other hand, histological quantification suggested that season has no significant effects on the number or the nuclear dimensions of Leydig cells in this species. The capacity of the regressive testes (per unit weight) to metabolize P and DHA to testosterone (T) was somewhat greater in regressive (48.5%, 49.4%) than in active (33.2%, 41.6%) testes. The results also suggest that the greater in vitro T production encountered during reproductive quiescence is due possibly to an increase in the activity of 17 beta hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (per unit weight). Our data on Leydig cell numbers indicate, however, that the capacity of the individual Leydig cells to produce T is decreased during sexual regression. T. europaea appears to be quite exceptional among seasonally breeding small mammals exhibiting pronounced annual changes in spermatogenesis in that the testes retain a considerable enzymatic capacity to produce testosterone from pregnanes during sexual quiescence. The results suggest that pituitary as well as paracrine regulation of the annual testicular cycle in this species differs from that generally encountered in seasonal breeders. PMID- 2531693 TI - Lactate dehydrogenase-induced conformational changes of F-actin in myosin-free ghost single fibres. AB - The changes in conformation of F-actin induced by the binding of the glycolytic enzyme lactate dehydrogenase were studied in myosin-free single ghost muscle fibres. The formation of the lactate dehydrogenase-F-actin complex was accompanied by changes in the parameters of intrinsic (tryptophan) and extrinsic (rhodaminyl-phalloin) polarized fluorescence of ghost muscle fibre F-actin. Lactate dehydrogenase stimulated actin-activated Mg2+-ATPase of myosin subfragment 1 by 30%. F-actin of ghost fibres depressed lactate dehydrogenase activity to 20% of the initial values. It is suggested that the energy-providing mechanism is coupled with that of muscle contraction through conformational changes in F-actin. PMID- 2531694 TI - Compartmental and intracompartmental regulation of aging. AB - Individual differences of aging occur in systems of regulation and communication. Different types of suppressor capacity can change in opposite directions as an individual ages. The progression of these changes in suppressor capacity can be changed to different extents by hormones or diets differing in fatty acid composition. It seems reasonable to conclude that these two activities depend on different precursors which age under the control of two different genes, although the two precursors are almost certainly derived from a common stem cell line. A variety of molecules and activities undergo age-related reductions, which are completed by middle age; the resulting levels of a given gene product are remarkably similar in different individuals, while the levels at a young age show very great individual differences. This correlation between the youthful quantity of a given gene product and the rate of change in later life has been designated as "economic correction." The study of multicentricity of different controlling and of functional competencies of different alleles is an important component in the development of preventive geriatric medicine. PMID- 2531695 TI - An efficient directional cloning system to construct cDNA libraries containing full-length inserts at high frequency. AB - We have developed a high efficiency cDNA cloning system which can direct the orientation of inserts in lambda-plasmid composite vectors with large cloning capacities. Cleavage of the vector DNA by SfiI creates two different nonsymmetrical 3' extensions at the ends of the vector arms. Using a linker primer and an adaptor, cDNA is prepared so it has two different sticky ends which can be ligated to those of the vector arms. When the cDNA fragments and the vector arms are mixed, both the molecules can assemble without self circularization due to base-pairing specificity. Ligation of the cDNA-vector mixture produces the concatemers from which phage clones carrying a single cDNA insert in the desired orientation can be formed very efficiently by in vitro packaging. This system provides: (1) high cloning efficiency [10(7)-10(8) clones/micrograms poly(A)+ RNA], (2) low background (more than 90% of the clones contain inserts), (3) directional insertion of cDNA fragments into the vectors, (4) presence of a single insert in each clone, (5) accommodation of long inserts (up to 10 kb), (6) a mechanism for rescue of the plasmid part from the lambda genome, and (7) a straightforward protocol for library preparation. Screenings of cDNA libraries constructed by this method demonstrated that cDNAs of up to 6.4 kb, containing complete coding sequences, could be isolated at high efficiency. Thus, this cloning system should be useful for the isolation of cDNAs of relatively long transcripts, present even at low abundance, in cells. PMID- 2531697 TI - [Hygienic aspects of the use of liquid wastes from oil-refining and chemical plants]. AB - It is established that utilization of pond's acid tar and n-butyl-acrylate vat residue for the binding roadway covering composition and its further application are associated with the release of a significant amount of noxious substances into the air of the work zone and inhabited areas. A set of activities, directed at the reduction of negative influence of the given technology on the sanitary state of the workplace and community air has been developed. PMID- 2531698 TI - [Evaluation of annual changes in health status and physical development of first grade schoolchildren in various educational systems]. PMID- 2531699 TI - [G.V. Khlopin and the Leningrad Medical Institute (on the 125th anniversary of the birth of G.V. Khlopin and the 90th anniversary of the founding of the I Acad. I.P. Pavlov Leningrad Medical Institute)]. PMID- 2531696 TI - [Complex sanitary and hygienic evaluation of water supply and community health in the area of the sulfite cellulose plants]. AB - The study provides the results of the observation of the sanitary state of water area near discharge of sewage of a sulphite cellulose plant. Sanitary, chemical, bacteriological and toxicological characteristics of water and clastic deposits in the area of water abstraction systems used for economic and drinking purposes near a large inhabited locality are presented. Impact of a water factor on community morbidity and mortality rates has been analyzed. PMID- 2531700 TI - [A method of evaluating the mental capacity of schoolchildren using letter tables]. PMID- 2531701 TI - [Comparison of the methods of analysis of the levels and dispersion-morphologic composition of asbestos-containing dust]. PMID- 2531702 TI - [Extraction-photometric analysis of fluoride ions in mineral waters]. PMID- 2531704 TI - [Problems of prognosis of oncologic risk]. PMID- 2531703 TI - [Characteristics of the biological effect of the products of the processing of natural gas and petroleum as sources of chemical environmental pollution]. PMID- 2531705 TI - [Work experience of the Moldavian sanitary and epidemiologic stations concerning the standardization and metrological provision of laboratory control]. PMID- 2531706 TI - [Regional systems of city sanitation]. PMID- 2531707 TI - [Data on the hygienic evaluation of the water supply in the Kalmyk ASSR]. PMID- 2531708 TI - [Motor activity and the functional state of the cardiovascular system of first grade schoolchildren during outdoor games]. PMID- 2531709 TI - [Anthropometric, hematologic and cytochemical parallels in schoolchildren with normal and abnormal physical development]. AB - The study was undertaken to analyze correlation of 25 indicators characterizing schoolchildren's health status from the cell level up to the body one. There were established some characteristics of forming inner damaging mechanism appearing in the body because of deviations in children's physical development. Body weight deficiency was characterized by high integration of diverse signs, whereas excessive body weight was accompanied by sharp discoordination of interlevel interaction. Low stature was described by links' desynchronization at the cellular and tissue levels that was accompanied by a rupture of relations of the functional systems of the given order with the body level, here interlevel links were indirectly supported. PMID- 2531710 TI - [Reorganization of the teaching of hygiene at the Department of Therapeutics and Prevention of the Rostov Medical Institute]. PMID- 2531711 TI - [The life style of children with digestive diseases living in rural areas]. PMID- 2531712 TI - [Comparative evaluation of various methods of analyzing sodium and potassium hydroxides in the air of galvanic shops]. PMID- 2531713 TI - [Effect of waste water from animal breeding farms on experimental animals]. PMID- 2531714 TI - [Functional state of the central nervous system of schoolchildren during their education in elementary schools]. PMID- 2531715 TI - [Benzo(a)pyrene level in waste water from petroleum-processing plants used for irrigation of fields]. PMID- 2531716 TI - [Air pollution by 3,4-benzo(a)pyrene in mines using self-propelled equipment with diesel motors]. AB - The study was designed to analyse air pollution by 3,4-benz(a)pyrene released together with exhaust gases in 3 underground mines where self-propelled machines with diesel engines are used. Concentration levels for 3,4-BP have been identified in air, dust, sweeping away and scraping off the walls of the mine working surface. It is demonstrated that in a great number of samples 3,4-BP concentration exceeds MAC. A technique for 3,4-BP air sampling and analysis has been studied by means of liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection. Hygienic recommendations on decreasing 3,4-BP release into the mine air are set forth. PMID- 2531717 TI - [Current clinical relevance of disseminated intravascular coagulation]. PMID- 2531718 TI - Evidence for a dopaminergic involvement in the inhibitory effect of alpha human natriuretic peptide on prolactin in man. AB - Recently, it has been suggested that Atrial Natriuretic Peptides (ANP), as well as peripheral hormones, may have a role as central neurotransmitters or neuromodulators, and in humans it has been observed that alpha human ANP inhibits prolactin secretion. In this study, on 12 normal adult males, we evaluated the effects of ANP on the prolactin release induced by TRH and by the dopaminergic blocker sulpiride. Alpha-hANP administration was followed by a significant fall of prolactin plasma levels but did not influence TRH-induced prolactin response. Nevertheless, sulpiride-induced prolactin secretion was significantly lower after Alpha-hANP administration than after placebo pre-treatment (p values ranging between 0.01 and 0.001). Our results suggest that in man Alpha-hANP has no direct influence on lactotrope cells in inhibiting prolactin secretion, but seems to involve activation of the hypothalamic dopaminergic system. PMID- 2531719 TI - Venoocclusive lesions of the central veins and portal vein radicles secondary to intraarterial 5-fluoro-2'-deoxyuridine infusion. AB - Venoocclusive disease is characterized by the occurrence of occlusive lesions of the central and subhepatic veins, usually involving the liver in a diffuse fashion. We report a case showing venoocclusive lesions of the central veins and the portal vein radicles affecting only a portion of the left lobe of the liver following intraarterial 5-fluoro-2'-deoxyuridine therapy for metastatic adenocarcinoma of the colon. Possible mechanisms and the significance of venoocclusive lesions of portal vein radicles are discussed. PMID- 2531720 TI - Application of a novel immunization protocol to the production of monoclonal antibodies specific for macrophages in human placenta. AB - A monolayer depletion/adoptive immunization protocol that biased the immune response towards recognition of placental macrophage (pMO) antigens was established. BALB/c spleen cells immune to human pMO were adsorbed onto monolayers of the B-cell line QIMR-WIL. Monolayer-depleted or unfractionated cells were transferred to irradiated recipients, which subsequently were restimulated with pMO then killed for hybridoma production. Screening of hybridomas revealed an increased proportion of pMO-specific hybridomas following transfer and fusion of monolayer-depleted cells. Two monoclonal antibodies (mAb), L9 and L21, which were generated through application of this protocol, are described. L9 recognized an antigen on cells within the villi in sections of term placenta and freshly isolated pMO. With time in culture, expression of this antigen decreased markedly. Macrophages, but no other cell type, in placental cell suspensions expressed this antigen. L9 failed to react with any peripheral blood cells. Immunoprecipitation and SDS-PAGE analyses indicated that two proteins of molecular weight (MW) 40,000 and 43,000 were recognized by L9. Sections of term placenta and freshly isolated pMO failed to react with L21. After 2-3 days in culture, however, most macrophages expressed this antigen. L21 reacted weakly with peripheral monocytes and granulocytes but not other normal peripheral blood cells. Myeloid cell lines reacted strongly with this mAb only after activation with PMA. SDS-PAGE analyses of the L21 immunoprecipitate under non-reducing conditions revealed a single band of 61,000 MW, while two bands of 46,000 and 49,000 MW were detected under reducing conditions. Cellular distribution and molecular weight analyses indicated that the antigens recognized by these two mAb were apparently distinct from previously defined myeloid antigens. PMID- 2531722 TI - Expression of high molecular weight astroglial extracellular proteins is altered by growth environment. AB - Conditioned medium from primary rat cortical glia was analyzed with respect to the composition of the secreted high molecular weight protein species. Developmental characteristics of astroglia are affected by growth in the presence and absence of serum. These growth conditions had a pronounced effect on the extracellular protein profile, cellular morphology, and cell substratum adhesion. Cells cultured in defined serumless medium did not express certain proteins expressed in the presence of serum but rather synthesized proteins specifically stimulated by the defined serumless environment. A morphological change from flat amorphous to a contracted fibrous network having an increased affinity for self self cellular adhesion rather than adhesion to the surface of the tissue culture dish was also stimulated by the defined serumless medium environment. A comparison of the extracellular proteins secreted by the rat C6 glioma and the rat PC12 cell demonstrated the cell-specific nature of the primary glial proteins. PMID- 2531721 TI - The role of cell maturation in the generation of phenotypic heterogeneity in B cell chronic lymphocytic leukaemia. AB - B-chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (B-CLL) patients can be ranked along a progression of phenotypes characterized by a decreasing surface expression of CD20, CD21, CD22 and membrane immunoglobulin and a gradual replacement of the high molecular weight (MW) glycoproteins of the leucocyte-common antigen (LC) CD45RA by the lower MW components, including the CD45RO determinant. As CD20, CD21, CD22 and membrane immunoglobulin change during or after B-cell activation, and the CD45RA/CD45RO inversion is implicated in T-cell maturation, the possibility that the phenotypic differences are generated by a maturational diversity of the CLL clones has been investigated by testing the effects of TPA treatment of the leukaemic cells. TPA reduces the level of expression of CD20, CD21, mIg and CD45RA and increases CD45RO binding, thereby minimizing the phenotypic heterogeneity of the CLL clones and causing them to converge towards one end of the natural range. We propose that the phenotypic diversity in CLL is, at least in part, a consequence of maturational diversity where lymphocyte development is disrupted at different stages in different patients. PMID- 2531723 TI - Patterns of gliosis in Alzheimer's disease and aging cerebrum. AB - The distribution of astrocytic gliosis in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and aging cerebrum, as marked by immunoperoxidase staining for glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), was examined in whole-hemisphere coronal sections. Cortical gliosis in AD had an obvious laminar pattern. There were two heavy bands of staining, one in layers II-III and another in layer V. Normal aging cases sometimes displayed considerable cortical gliosis, but no specific patterns were apparent. Most AD cases, and some normal aging cases, displayed hypertrophy of immunoreactive astrocytes at grey matter-white matter interfaces, especially the cortico-medullary junction. Subcortical grey matter gliosis was common in both normal aging and AD, but there was no consistent pattern in either group. The deep cerebral white matter, which is stained evenly and heavily in young, healthy individuals, showed uneven staining in both normal elderly and AD brains. In both AD and aging, perivascular gliosis was prominent throughout the cerebrum and especially in the putamen. In conclusion, both AD and aging cerebri show extensive gliosis: AD cortical gliosis has a specific laminar pattern, but there does not appear to be an AD-specific pattern of subcortical gliosis. PMID- 2531724 TI - An endogenous lectin found in rat astrocyte cultures has a role in cell adhesion but not in cell proliferation. AB - The presence of an endogenous cerebellar soluble lectin (CSL) has been demonstrated in cultured rat astrocytes by using immunocytochemical techniques. In these cells, the location of lectin CSL was found intracellularly as well as on the external surface of the plasma membrane of the cell bodies and processes, especially in the zones of contact between cells. This suggested that CSL could have a role in adhesion of astrocytes to sister cells. Kinetics of adhesion of astrocytes to culture dishes precoated with CSL showed a rapid binding of these cells. In confluent astrocyte cultures, anti-CSL Fab fragments affected the shape and organization of astrocytes (retraction of the cytoplasm), but they did not detach cells from the substratum. These results indicated that CSL has adhesive properties for astroglial cells and is probably involved 1) in adhesion of astrocytes to sister cells; 2) in binding of protoplasmic regions of astrocyte membrane to the substratum. Further support for these roles came from demonstration of the presence in cultures of glycoprotein ligands recognized by this lectin. The problem of the mitogenic properties of the lectin was also questioned. The addition of CSL to confluent astroglial cultures was able to stimulate only by 40% the proliferation of these cells at an optimal concentration of 5 micrograms CSL lectin/ml of culture medium. This indicated that CSL is not a powerful growth factor for astrocytes. PMID- 2531725 TI - Glial processes, identified through their glial-specific 130 kD surface glycoprotein, are juxtaposed to sites of neurogenesis in the leech germinal plate. AB - Glial processes, bearing a unique 130 kD surface protein, are located at key sites of morphogenic movement and neuronal differentiation in the leech germinal plate. A midline glial fascicle resides at the primary axis of embryonic symmetry, alongside which teloblasts move as they generate their bandlets of stem cells. The n-bandlets straddle the midline glia and are known to produce most of the central neuroblasts. The midline glia then defasciculates as neuroblasts begin to aggregate into neuromeres. The defasciculated processes expand into these neuromeres, molding the future central neuropile. Neuroblasts will initiate primary axons toward the midline glia. As the neuromeres mature, midline glial process thin out to demarcate the orientation of the future connectives, which are the major longitudinal axon tracts along the midline. Next, segmental but still primordial glia appear in the neuromeres. Initially, they also project longitudinally, then transversely, demarcating the other two major axonal pathways--the central commissures and peripheral roots. Finally, macroglial processes proliferate as massive axon growth invades the central and peripheral nervous system. Thus, glial processes with different developmental histories accompany different aspects of leech neurogenesis. In other systems, glia have been shown to promote the differentiation and the guidance of neurons. It remains to be seen whether the glial-specific 130 kD protein is a receptor mediating these typical glial functions in the leech germinal plate. PMID- 2531726 TI - Muller (glial) cells but not astrocytes in the retina of the goldfish possess orthogonal arrays of particles. AB - Muller cells as the main glial component of the retina were investigated in the goldfish by means of ultrathin sections and freeze-fracture replicas. In the optic nerve head, they were directly compared with astrocytes. Whereas astrocytic endfeet bordering the vitreous body can easily be identified by their dense bundles of intermediate filaments, scarce membranous organelles, paravitreous caveolae, and lateral desmosomes, Muller cell endfeet reveal a looser arrangement of intermediate filaments, a characteristic pattern of triangularly shaped endoplasmic reticulum, large and pale mitochondria, and, if at all, very few desmosome-like junctions. The paravitreous membranes at the cytoplasmic face are covered by a fuzzy coat, which is less marked in astrocytic endfeet. Caveolae are lacking. Considering the freeze-fracture architecture of the membranes of both glial cell types, the Muller cells reveal orthogonal arrays of particles (OAP), which were predominantly located opposite to the inner limiting membrane; their density (109 +/- 33 OAP/microns 2) decreases abruptly with the loss of the contact between membrane and vitreous body. In contrast, astrocytes of the optic nerve head in the retina do not show any OAP in their membranes at all and are interconnected by tight junctions and desmosomes. The hypothesis suggesting that OAP might be correlated with K+ channels involved in the spatial buffering of the extracellular space is reconsidered with comparative reference to recent electrophysiological data. Further, the heterogeneity of Muller cell and astrocyte membrane equipment with OAP in the goldfish is briefly discussed. PMID- 2531728 TI - [Prevention of Osler's infectious endocarditis in dental practice in patients with congenital or acquired valvular heart disease]. PMID- 2531727 TI - Visualization of oligodendrocytes and astrocytes in the intact rat optic nerve by intracellular injection of lucifer yellow and horseradish peroxidase. AB - The morphology of glial cells in the intact rat optic nerve, a central nervous system (CNS) white matter tract, was analysed by filling over 500 macroglial cells intracellularly with horseradish peroxidase (HRP) or Lucifer yellow (LY). Two main cell types were distinguished: fibrous astrocytes and cells presumed to be oligodendrocytes. Intracellularly stained astrocytes were highly complex, with 50-60 long branching processes which passed radially from the cell body and terminated in end-feet at the pial surface or on blood vessels; some processes ended freely in the nerve parenchyma. Astrocytes filled with LY were usually dye coupled to other astrocytes after the first week of life. Filled oligodendrocytes had a unique appearance that unmistakably distinguished them from astrocytes and were occassionally dye-coupled to nearby oligodendrocytes. These cells had 20-30 longitudinally oriented processes 150-200 microns long, which passed exclusively along the long axis of the nerve parallel to axons; the longitudinal processes were connected to the cell body by thin branches 15-30 microns long. The longitudinal processes probably represent the tongue processes of the internodal myelin sheaths, and thus each oligodendrocyte appears to myelinate 20-30 axons with sheaths that are 150-200 microns in length. PMID- 2531729 TI - Scleromyxedema and severe myositis. AB - A case of scleromyxedema with associated rhabdomyolysis is reported. This appears to be a well-documented, although rare complication of scleromyxedema. This case is unique in that mucin was demonstrated in the muscle as well as the skin, and spontaneous resolution of the rhabdomyolysis occurred with the implementation of IV fluids and bed rest. PMID- 2531731 TI - Benefits update. Part 2 of 4. Benefits for people who are incapable of work. PMID- 2531730 TI - Plantar fibromatosis and hyperkeratosis plantaris. Casual or causal relationship. PMID- 2531732 TI - Phosphatidylcholine synthesis in human spermatozoa. AB - To clarify the mechanism of phospholipid synthesis in spermatozoa, fresh human spermatozoa were incubated with labeled fatty acids and 1-acyl-lysophosphatidyl choline (LPC) in the presence or absence of coenzyme A (CoASH). Both docosahexaenoic acid and palmitic acid were incorporated into phosphatidylcholine; however, this reaction was absolutely dependent upon the presence of CoASH in the incubation medium. The rate of incorporation of docosahexaenoic acid was 2.7-fold higher than that of palmitic acid, but more palmitic acid was incorporated into phosphatidylcholine in the absence of LPC. These data provide direct evidence for acyl transferase activity in human spermatozoa and may furnish a mechanism for phospholipid remodeling in sperm membranes. The different incorporation rates of these fatty acids into phosphatidylcholine may be due to the kinetics of the activation step, long chain fatty acid:CoASH ligase (AMP), or the substrate specificity of the acyl transferase. PMID- 2531733 TI - Effects of faunation and type of dietary protein on gastric solubility and liver content of copper in sheep. AB - Three experiments were conducted to determine the influence of the presence of protozoa on copper (Cu) metabolism in sheep fed corn silage or corn silage supplemented with casein, fish meal or soybean meal. For each diet, eight rams were kept fauna-free; eight additional rams were faunated and housed separately from them. The faunated rams in all treatments grew faster and consumed more feed and, consequently, more Cu. However, they had a lower (P less than .01) ruminal Cu solubility and accumulated less Cu in their livers than the fauna-free rams when fed corn silage alone or in combination with soybean meal (insoluble, ruminally degraded protein). Such effects were not significant when corn silage was supplemented with fish meal (protein resistant to ruminal degradation). The presence of ciliate protozoa in the rumen had no effect on the accumulation of Cu in the liver of sheep fed corn silage supplemented with casein (soluble, ruminally degraded protein) and produced conflicting results on ruminal Cu solubility. Hence, the effect of protozoa on Cu metabolism is indirect and depends on the type of protein present in the diet. PMID- 2531734 TI - Assay method for single-chain urokinase-type plasminogen activator. AB - A new assay method for measuring single-chain urokinase-type plasminogen activator (scu-PA) activity by quantitative calorimetric assay method is described. The serine enzyme u-PA activates plasminogen to plasmin, and scu-PA is a precursor protein obtained from a tissue culture of human kidney cells. The scu PA solution was activated by plasmin to two-chain u-PA, which releases p nitroaniline from pyro-Glu-Gly-Arg-pNA, and the optical density at 405 nm was measured. One unit of scu-PA was defined on the basis of 1 nmol of p-nitroaniline released from the substrate per second. One unit of scu-PA was found to be equivalent to 335 u-PA (two-chain) units (IU). PMID- 2531735 TI - Overproduction of truncated subunit a of H+-ATPase causes growth inhibition of Escherichia coli. AB - Genes (uncB) for wild-type and mutant a subunits of Escherichia coli H+-ATPase (F0F1) were cloned into recombinant plasmids. The subunits were expressed under the control of a weak promoter of the unc operon at 30 degrees C and strong promoters of lambda phage at 42 degrees C. At 30 degrees C, the wild type and a truncated (Glu-269----end) a subunit complemented the defect of the a subunit mutant KF24A (Trp-111----end), whereas the other mutant subunits (Trp-111----end, Trp-231----end, Gln-252----end, and a subunit with a deletion of residues 21 to 227) did not. Three mutant subunits (Trp-231----end, Gln-252----end, and Glu-269- --end) and the wild-type a subunit caused growth inhibition associated with cell elongation, an uneven distribution of membrane proteins, and an altered septum structure when they were expressed at 42 degrees C. These phenomena were not observed with the other mutant subunits, suggesting that overproduction of the middle region (between residues 111 and 230) of the a subunit causes growth inhibition. PMID- 2531736 TI - Structure, function and molecular genetics of vacuolar and plasma membrane ATPases. PMID- 2531737 TI - Structure, molecular genetics, and evolution of vacuolar H+-ATPases. AB - Proton-ATPases can be divided into three classes denoted as P-, F-, and V ATPases. The P-ATPases are evolutionarily distinct from the F- and V-type ATPases which have been shown to be related, probably evolved from a common ancestral enzyme. Like F-ATPases, V-ATPases are composed of two distinct structures: a catalytic sector that is hydrophilic in nature and a hydrophobic membrane sector which functions in proton conduction. Recent studies on the molecular biology of vacuolar H+-ATPases revealed surprising findings about the evolution of pronon pumps as well as important clues for the evolution of eukaryotic cells. PMID- 2531739 TI - Vacuolar proton pumps. AB - Recently a new class of proton-translocating ATPases has been localized to endomembrane compartments in plant, fungal, and mammalian cells. These proton pumps are large hetero-oligomers which have an ATP hydrolytic sector that is functionally and structurally distinct from a transmembranous proton pore. Enzymatic characteristics of these proton pumps are discussed as well as the current state of knowledge regarding subunit composition and function. In addition, recent primary sequence data are discussed which indicate that these proton pumps share a common ancestor with F1F0-type proton pumps of mitochondria. PMID- 2531738 TI - Structure and function of the yeast vacuolar membrane proton ATPase. AB - Our current work on a vacuolar membrane proton ATPase in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae has revealed that it is a third type of H+-translocating ATPase in the organism. A three-subunit ATPase, which has been purified to near homogeneity from vacuolar membrane vesicles, shares with the native, membrane-bound enzyme common enzymological properties of substrate specificities and inhibitor sensitivities and are clearly distinct from two established types of proton ATPase, the mitochondrial F0F1-type ATP synthase and the plasma membrane E1E2 type H+-ATPase. The vacuolar membrane H+-ATPase is composed of three major subunits, subunit a (Mr = 67 kDa), b (57 kDa), and c (20 kDa). Subunit a is the catalytic site and subunit c functions as a channel for proton translocation in the enzyme complex. The function of subunit b has not yet been identified. The functional molecular masses of the H+-ATPase under two kinetic conditions have been determined to be 0.9-1.1 x 10(5) daltons for single-cycle hydrolysis of ATP and 4.1-5.3 x 10(5) daltons for multicycle hydrolysis of ATP, respectively. N,N' Dicyclohexyl-carbodiimide2 does not inhibit the former reaction but strongly inhibits the latter reaction. The kinetics of single-cycle hydrolysis of ATP indicates the formation of an enzyme-ATP complex and subsequent hydrolysis of the bound ATP to ADP and Pi at a 7-chloro-4-nitrobenzo-2-oxa-1,3-diazole-sensitive catalytic site. Cloning of structural genes for the three subunits of the H+ ATPase (VMA1, VMA2, and VMA3) and their nucleotide sequence determination have been accomplished, which provide greater advantages for molecular biological studies on the structure-function relationship and biogenesis of the enzyme complex. Bioenergetic aspects of the vacuole as a main, acidic compartment ensuring ionic homeostasis in the cytosol have been described. PMID- 2531740 TI - Molecular properties of the fungal plasma-membrane [H+]-ATPase. AB - The fungal plasma membrane contains a proton-translocating ATPase that is closely related, both structurally and functionally, to the [Na+, K+]-, [H+, K+]-, and [Ca2+]-ATPases of animal cells, the plasma-membrane [H+]-ATPase of higher plants, and several bacterial cation-transporting ATPases. This review summarizes currently available information on the molecular genetics, protein structure, and reaction cycle of the fungal enzyme. Recent efforts to dissect structure-function relationships are also discussed. PMID- 2531741 TI - Sodium-translocating adenosine triphosphatase in Streptococcus faecalis. AB - Sodium-translocating ATPase in the fermentative bacterium Streptococcus faecalis exchanges sodium for potassium ions. Sodium ions stimulate its activity, but K+ ions have no significant effect at present. Although the molecular nature of the sodium ATPase is not clear, the enzyme is distinct from other ion-motive ATPases (E1E2 type and F1F0 type) as judged by its resistance to vanadate as well as dicyclohexylcarbodiimde. The sodium ATPase is induced when cells are grown on media rich in sodium, particularly under conditions that limit the generation of a proton potential or block the constitutive sodium proton antiporter, indicating that an increase in the cytoplasmic sodium level serves as the signal. The enzyme is not induced in response to K+ deprivation. The sodium ATPase may have evolved to cope with a sodium-rich environment under conditions that limit the magnitude of the proton potential. PMID- 2531742 TI - Functional consequences of mutations in the beta-strand sector of the Ca2(+) ATPase of sarcoplasmic reticulum. AB - Kinetic studies of the phosphoenzyme intermediates of site-specific mutants were used to examine the role of Gly233 in the reaction mechanism of the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2(+)-ATPase. When this glycine residue, which is highly conserved among cation-transporting ATPases, was replaced by valine, arginine, or glutamic acid, a complete loss of the ability to pump Ca2+ was observed. The mutant enzymes were able to form an ADP-sensitive phosphoenzyme intermediate (E1P) by reaction with ATP in the presence of Ca2+, but this intermediate decayed to the ADP-insensitive form (E2P) very slowly, relative to the wild-type enzyme. The mutant phosphoenzyme intermediate remained ADP-sensitive, even when phosphorylation from ATP was performed under conditions which permitted accumulation of the ADP-insensitive phosphoenzyme intermediate in the wild type. The mutants were also defective in their ability to form the ADP-insensitive phosphoenzyme intermediate by phosphorylation from inorganic phosphate. In addition, they displayed a higher affinity for Ca2+ and a lower cooperativity in Ca2+ binding than did the wild-type enzyme, as measured through the phosphorylation reaction with ATP. These findings can be rationalized either in terms of a parallel shift of E1 to E2 and E1P to E2P conformational equilibria toward the E1 and E1P forms, respectively, or in terms of destabilization of the phosphoryl-protein interaction in the E2P form. The roles of 7 other residues located in the vicinity of Gly233 were also examined by mutation. Although the side chains of these residues are potential Ca2+ ligands, their replacement did not affect the Ca2+ affinity of the enzyme, suggesting the lack of a role of this region of the peptide in formation of Ca2(+)-binding sites. PMID- 2531743 TI - Functional consequences of proline mutations in the cytoplasmic and transmembrane sectors of the Ca2(+)-ATPase of sarcoplasmic reticulum. AB - Site-specific mutagenesis was used to investigate whether Pro160, Pro195, Pro308, Pro312, Pro803, and Pro812 play essential roles in the function of the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2(+)-ATPase. All six prolines were substituted with alanine; and in addition, Pro308 was replaced by glycine and Pro312 by glycine as well as by leucine. Mutant cDNAs were expressed in COS-1 cells, and mutant Ca2(+) ATPases located in the isolated microsomal fraction were examined with respect to Ca2+ uptake activity, Ca2+ dependence of phosphorylation from ATP, and the kinetic properties of the phosphoenzyme intermediates formed from both ATP and Pi. The enzymatic cycle was little affected by substitution of Pro160, Pro195, and Pro812, which are located in the cytoplasmic domain; but replacement of Pro308, Pro312, and Pro803, in the putative transmembrane helices, had a profound impact on the function of the enzyme. All mutations of Pro308 and Pro803 led to ATPases which were characterized by a reduced affinity for Ca2+. These prolines may therefore be involved in the structure of the high affinity Ca2(+)-binding sites in the enzyme. Substitution of Pro312 with alanine or glycine gave rise to mutants unable to transport Ca2+ even though their apparent affinities for Ca2+ in the phosphorylation reaction with ATP were increased. In these enzymes, the ADP-sensitive phosphoenzyme intermediate was stable for at least 5 min at 0 degrees C, whereas the ADP-insensitive phosphoenzyme intermediate decay at a rate similar to that of the wild type. Thus, the inability to transport Ca2+ could be accounted for by a block of ADP-sensitive to ADP-insensitive phosphoenzyme intermediate conformational transition. In contrast, substitution of Pro312 with leucine gave rise to a mutant enzyme that retained about 7% of the normal Ca2+ transport rate. Phosphoenzyme turnover in this mutant also occurred at a low but significant rate, suggesting that the leucine side chain can substitute to some extent for proline. PMID- 2531744 TI - Functional domains of the Escherichia coli dnaK heat shock protein as revealed by mutational analysis. AB - The employment of a set of truncated dnaK peptides produced by deletion and insertion mutations in the Escherichia coli dnaK gene allowed us to define regions of the dnaK protein which are involved in particular enzymatic functions. The results obtained suggest that the dnaK polypeptide is organized into at least two distinct functional domains. The highly conserved amino-terminal portion is required for the ATPase activity. The carboxyl-terminal portion, characterized by relatively low similarity among species, is responsible for the autophosphorylating activity. The mutant dnaK protein C[74], which lacks amino acid sequences at the extreme carboxyl-terminal portion of the protein, retains both the ATPase and the autophosphorylating activities. The results obtained with the full-length (70-kDa) dnaK756 protein suggest that the thermolabile defect of the dnaK756 mutation affects directly or indirectly the ATPase active site of the enzyme. The autophosphorylating activity of the dnaK+, dnaK756, and C[74] polypeptides was activated at least 10-fold by the addition of CaCl2. PMID- 2531745 TI - Calcium-dependent and phosphorylation-stimulated proteolysis of lipocortin I by an endogenous A431 cell membrane protease. AB - Purified placental lipocortin I but not lipocortin II was proteolyzed during A431 cell membrane-catalyzed phosphorylation reactions. Proteolysis was Ca2+-dependent but was not prevented in the presence of a variety of inhibitors of Ca2+ dependent proteases, suggesting that the Ca2+ effect is a property of lipocortin I itself. Proteolysis was inhibited by Triton X-100 or dithiothreitol and was temperature-dependent, occurring at 30 degrees C but not at 0 degrees C. Tyrosine phosphorylation and proteolysis are distinct events as both phosphorylated and nonphosphorylated lipocortins could be cleaved by the membrane protease, but prephosphorylation enhanced the rate of proteolysis 2-fold during the initial reaction and by 60 min almost half of the phosphorylated lipocortin was proteolyzed. Cleavage of the 38-kDa phosphotyrosyl lipocortin I generated a truncated 37-kDa form of lipocortin which retained the phosphate label, indicating that proteolysis occurred at a site N-terminal to the site of tyrosine phosphorylation, possibly at tryptophan 12. Ando, Y., Imamura, S., Hong, Y.-M., Owada, M.K., Kakunaga, T., and Kannagi, R. [1989) J. Biol. Chem. 264, 6948-6955) have recently reported that in vitro cleavage at sites in the N-terminal tail region of lipocortin I by exogenously added proteases dramatically enhanced the Ca2+ sensitivity of phospholipid binding by lipocortin. The demonstrated ability of an endogenous membrane protease to catalyze a similar and specific cleavage in a Ca2+-dependent manner indicates that this event may occur in the cell where it would have important effects on the functional properties of lipocortin I. PMID- 2531746 TI - The organization of the purL gene encoding 5'-phosphoribosylformylglycinamide amidotransferase of Escherichia coli. AB - Escherichia coli 5'-phosphoribosylformylglycinamide (FGAR) amidotransferase (EC 6.3.5.3) encoded by the purL gene catalyzes the conversion of FGAR to formylglycinamidine in the presence of glutamine and ATP for the de novo purine nucleotide biosynthesis. On the basis of the nucleotide sequence of purL, the enzyme was dissected along the polypeptide chain into at least three discrete regions, designated as domains I, II, and III, by genetic complementation tests. Domain III (255 amino acids), which resides in the C-terminal region, is similar in amido acid sequence to several glutamine amidotransferases and exerts the transfer of the amide nitrogen of glutamine. Domain I (791 amino acids) resides in the N-terminal region and contains a potential ATP binding motif. Domain II (249 amino acids) locates between domains I and III and is composed of an alternating structure of at least eight predicted beta-strand and alpha-helix elements, as has been observed in the family of triosephosphate isomerases. The functions of domains I and II have been discussed in relation to the transfer of the carbonyl oxygen of FGAR into the gamma-phosphorus moiety of ATP. These results support a model that the E. coli purL gene is a fused gene of at least three different gene families. The highly repetitive sequences of the E. coli genome appeared to play an important role in the process of the gene fusion. PMID- 2531747 TI - Structure of the alpha-, beta-, and gamma-heavy chains of 22 S outer arm dynein obtained from Tetrahymena cilia. AB - Here we document the UV-induced, vanadate-dependent cleavage of the alpha-, beta , and gamma-heavy chains of 22 S outer arm dynein obtained from Tetrahymena cilia. All three polypeptides have a single site of photocleavage in the presence of Mg2+, ATP, and vanadate (termed V1 cleavage). The alpha-chain yields complementary fragments with masses of 232 and 185 kDa, the beta-chain has complementary fragments with masses of 225 and 195 kDa, and the gamma-chain has complementary fragments with masses of 242 and 161 kDa. In the absence of ATP, only the beta-chain undergoes V1 cleavage. All three polypeptides have one single site of V2 cleavage, which are unaffected by the presence of nucleotide and only require the presence of Mn2+ and vanadate. V2 cleavage always occurs on the larger V1 fragments and is separated from the V1 site by 52, 48, and 57 kDa for the alpha-, beta-, and gamma-heavy chains, respectively. We have also found a third type of UV-induced vanadate-dependent cleavage which we have termed VMT cleavage. VMT cleavage occurs when dynein is bound to microtubules in an ATP sensitive manner under V1 solution conditions that should only support cleavage of the beta-chain (i.e. vanadate, Mg2+, and absence of ATP). Under these conditions V1 cleavage of the beta-chain and V2 cleavage of all three chains occur. This is the first documented evidence of V2 cleavage occurring under V1 solution conditions and implies a change in dynein structure when it binds to a microtubule. Using a combination of polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies, we have been able to construct linear polypeptide maps of all three heavy chains. Their relationship to the polypeptide maps previously obtained for heavy chains obtained from the dynein of Chlamydomonas and sea urchin axonemes is discussed. PMID- 2531748 TI - A frameshift mutation in a patient with Tay-Sachs disease causes premature termination and defective intracellular transport of the alpha-subunit of beta hexosaminidase. AB - Mutations of the gene encoding the alpha-subunit of the lysosomal enzyme, beta hexosaminidase, are the cause of Tay-Sachs disease. We previously showed that fibroblasts from one patient (WG1051) synthesized an unstable alpha-subunit that was smaller than normal and appeared to be trapped in an early biosynthetic compartment (Zokaeem, G., Bayleran, J., Kaplan, P., Hechtman, P., and Neufeld, E. F. (1987) Am. J. Hum. Genet. 40, 537-547). We now have identified the mutation as a deletion of cytosine at position 1510 of the coding sequence. We first determined that the structural abnormality was at the carboxyl terminus of the protein and then sequenced the corresponding regions of the cDNA and genomic DNA after amplification by the polymerase chain reaction. The frameshift mutation, which is present on both alleles, causes premature termination four codons downstream, and the loss of a very hydrophilic stretch of 22 amino acids. Expression of alpha-subunit cDNA with the cytosine deletion in Cos-1 cells reproduced the WG1051 phenotype, i.e. a truncated alpha-subunit that was retained and degraded in an early compartment, presumably the endoplasmic reticulum. Loss of the cysteine residue at position 522 was not the sole cause of instability and defective transport. PMID- 2531749 TI - Filamentous smooth muscle myosin is regulated by phosphorylation. AB - The enzymatic activity of filamentous dephosphorylated smooth muscle myosin has been difficult to determine because the polymer disassembles to the folded conformation in the presence of MgATP. Monoclonal antirod antibodies were used here to "fix" dephosphorylated myosin in the filamentous state. The steady-state actin-activated ATPase of phosphorylated filaments was 30-100-fold higher than that of antibody-stabilized dephosphorylated filaments, suggesting that phosphorylation can activate ATPase activity independent of changes in assembly. The degree of regulation may exceed 100-fold, because steady-state measurements slightly overestimate the rate of product release from dephosphorylated filaments. Single-turnover experiments in the absence of actin showed that although dephosphorylated folded myosin released products at the low rate of 0.0005 s-1 (Cross, R. A., K. E. Cross, A. Sobieszek. 1986. EMBO [Eur. Mol. Biol. Organ.] J. 5:2637-2641) the rate of product release from dephosphorylated filaments was only 3-12-fold higher, depending on the ionic strength. The addition of actin did not increase this rate to any appreciable extent. Dephosphorylated filaments and dephosphorylated heavy meromyosin (Sellers, J. R. 1985. J. Biol. Chem. 260:15815-15819) thus have similar low rates of phosphate release both in the presence and absence of actin. These results show that light chain phosphorylation alone, without invoking other mechanisms, is an effective switch for regulating the activity of smooth muscle myosin filaments. PMID- 2531751 TI - Effects of D-threo-PDMP, an inhibitor of glucosylceramide synthetase, on expression of cell surface glycolipid antigen and binding to adhesive proteins by B16 melanoma cells. AB - Incubating B16 melanoma cells with an inhibitor of glucosylceramide (GlcCer) synthetase, D-threo-1-phenyl-2-decanoylamino-3-morpholino-1-propanol (D-threo PDMP), led to a considerable decrease in the levels of GlcCer and lactosylceramide (LacCer). The content of ganglioside GM3 was little affected, but the ability to bind a monoclonal antibody against the ganglioside (M2590) was greatly reduced, suggesting that the reduction in the simple glycolipids led to encryption of the membrane antigen. This interpretation is supported by the observation that permeabilization of the treated cells with Triton X-100 restored immunological reactivity. Specificity of the PDMP effect was shown by its lack of effect on the reactivity of two other surface antigens to anti-melanoma monoclonal antibodies M562 and M622, and of the major histocompatibility antigens to anti-H-2KbDb monoclonal antibody. The ability of the treated cells to attach to laminin or type IV collagen was lost but that to fibronectin was not. The effects of the enzyme inhibitor were counteracted by including GlcCer in the culture medium. This indicates that the lipid was absorbed by the cells and utilized like endogenously-formed GlcCer. Cells preattached to laminin or collagen could be induced to round up by addition of inhibitor. In contrast, L threo-PDMP (which does not block the synthesis of GlcCer) had no effect on the immunologic reactivity of GM3 or the adhesion properties of the cells. However, it did produce considerable accumulation of LacCer. These data suggest that the simple glycolipid, GlcCer, is an essential factor for antigenic expression of the more complex glycolipids on cell surfaces and that there is a close association and interaction between glycolipids and adhesive receptors on the cell surface. PMID- 2531752 TI - High-performance liquid chromatographic identification of disaccharides generated from heparan sulphate isomers using heparitinases. AB - Specific heparan sulphate-lyases, heparitinases I and II, were used to identify unsaturated disaccharide constituents generated from heterogeneous heparan sulphate isomers. All determinations were made using high-performance liquid chromatography with a column containing a sulphonized styrene-divinylbenzene copolymer. Unsaturated disaccharides generated from variously sulphated heparan sulphate isomers after simultaneous digestion with heparitinases I and II facilitated separation of the individual disaccharides, based on sulphate groups at the specific position of the uronic acid and glucosamine residues. The simultaneous digestion with heparitinases I and II produces unsaturated disaccharides from heparan sulphate isomers with the structure of 4-deoxy-2-O alpha-L-threo-hex-4-enepyranosyluronic acid (1----4)-2-amino-deoxy-D-glucose, 4 deoxy-2-O-alpha-L-threo-hex-4-enepyranosyluronic acid (1----4)-2-deoxy-2 sulphamido-D-glucose, 4-deoxy-2-O-alpha-L-threo-hex-4-enepyranosyluronic acid (1- --4)-2-aminodeoxy-6-O-sulpho-D-glucose, 4-deoxy-2-O-alpha-L-threo-hex-4 enepyranosyluronic acid (1----4)-2-deoxy-2-sulphamido-6-O-sulpho-D-glucose, 4 deoxy-2-O-sulpho-alpha-L-threo-hex-4-enepyranosyluronic acid (1----4)-2-amino-2 deoxy-6-O-sulpho-D-glucose and 4-deoxy-2-O-sulpho-alpha-L-threo-hex-4 enepyranosyluronic acid (1----4)-2-deoxy-2-sulphamido-6-O-sulpho-D-glucose. PMID- 2531750 TI - Isolation and characterization of Chinese hamster ovary cell variants deficient in the expression of fibronectin receptor. AB - Chinese hamster ovary cell populations were enriched for cells displaying low surface expression of the 140-kD integrin fibronectin receptor (FnR) by means of fluorescence-activated cell sorting using monoclonal anti-FnR antibodies. Selected cells were cloned by limiting dilution, and the resulting clones were screened for low cell surface FnR expression by ELISA. Two multiply sorted populations gave rise to variant clones possessing approximately 20 or 2% FnR expression, respectively, compared with wild-type cells. Growth rates of the "20%" and "2%" clones on serum-coated plastic dishes were similar to that of wild type cells. Variant cells expressing 20% FnR could attach and spread on substrata coated with purified fibronectin, although somewhat more slowly than wild-type cells, while cells expressing 2% FnR could not attach or spread. Cells from all variant clones attached normally to vitronectin substrata, but some of the 2% clones displayed altered morphology on this type of substratum. Motility assays in blind well chambers showed a correlation of movement with level of expression of FnR. The number of cells migrating in response to fibronectin was greatly reduced compared with wild-type cells for the 20% FnR variant clones, while variant clones with 2% FnR showed virtually no migratory activity. Surface labeling with 125I and immunoaffinity purification of FnR showed reduced levels of intact FnR on the plasma membranes of variants with 20% FnR, while none was detected in variants expressing 2% FnR. Nevertheless, beta subunits were detected on the surfaces of all variant clones. Immunoblots of cell lysates from wild-type cells and from both types of variant clones showed substantial amounts of FnR beta chain as well as enhanced amounts of a pre-beta moiety in the variants. alpha chain was markedly reduced in the 20% variants and essentially absent in the 2% variants, indicating that failure to assemble intact FnR in these variants was due to deficiencies of alpha chain production. Dot blots of total mRNA from a representative clone expressing 20% FnR showed reduced levels of material hybridizing to an 0.97-kb hamster FnR alpha chain cDNA probe as compared with wild type, while mRNA from a representative clone expressing 2% FnR had no detectable hybridizable RNA; this seems to agree well with the results obtained by immunoblotting. Thus, the defect in the variant clones seems to be due to reduced levels of alpha chain mRNA leading to a deficit of mature FnR and consequent alterations in cell adhesion and motility on fibronectin substrata. PMID- 2531753 TI - Photodynamic inactivation of simian immunodeficiency virus. AB - A photodynamic flow system employing a dihematoporphyrin ether (DHE) was tested for its ability to inactivate the in vitro infectivity of simian immunodeficiency virus (SICMac) at 630 +/- 5 nm with a light fluence of 5 J/cm2. Cell-free SIVMac was inactivated by photoactivated hematoporphyrin derivative in a dose-dependent fashion. Since SIVMac is closely related to human immunodeficiency virus type 2 (HIV-2) and we have previously reported the successful photodynamic inactivation of HIV-1 in cell-free medium as well as in whole human blood, this technology has the potential for the eradication of transfusion-associated acquired immunodeficiency diseases caused by the above-mentioned retroviruses. PMID- 2531754 TI - Asymmetries in intermanual transfer of training and motor overflow in adults with Down's syndrome and nonhandicapped children. AB - A sequential finger-lifting task was used to examine asymmetries in intermanual transfer of training and motor overflow in Down's syndrome adults and young, nonhandicapped children. Both groups exhibited more interlimb transfer of training from the left hand to the right hand than the reverse. This finding provides evidence for left-hemisphere specialization for the organization and control of sequential movement. While the motor overflow results were less compelling, they provide some evidence for left-hemisphere dominance for movement control in Down's syndrome persons. It is suggested that perhaps the same neural mechanisms are responsible for motor overflow and transfer of training asymmetries. PMID- 2531755 TI - Refining the forced-choice method for the detection of malingering. AB - For seven years following head trauma, a 45-year-old restaurant owner had claimed that he was unable to work because of impaired memory. A specially designed forced-choice memory test yielded performance significantly below the chance level and thus indicated malingering. This case illustrates some means of increasing the utility of forced-choice malingering tests. PMID- 2531756 TI - Standardization of disk diffusion and agar dilution susceptibility tests for Neisseria gonorrhoeae: interpretive criteria and quality control guidelines for ceftriaxone, penicillin, spectinomycin, and tetracycline. AB - A six-laboratory study developed a standardized method for determining the susceptibilities of Neisseria gonorrhoeae strains to penicillin, tetracycline, spectinomycin, and ceftriaxone. Three quality control organisms were also selected, and quality assurance guidelines were initially generated for the disk diffusion and agar dilution methods. The medium recommended for gonococcal susceptibility testing was GC agar with a defined "XV-like" supplement. The supplement should be free of cysteine, a component implicated in the inactivation of some newer beta-lactam compounds. Penicillin, tetracycline, spectinomycin, and ceftriaxone were stable in agar plates stored at 3 to 5 degrees C for at least 2 weeks. Numerous GC agar and drug disk lots were used during the trials without significant variation in test results. Several other gonococcal strains were recommended for additional medium quality assurance. The disk quality control zone limits were established for N. gonorrhoeae ATCC 49226 (formerly CDC F-18) and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923. MIC quality control ranges were also developed for N. gonorrhoeae ATCC 49226 and S. aureus ATCC 29213. The interpretive criteria for penicillin were as follows: susceptibility, greater than or equal to 47 mm (diameter of inhibition zone) (less than or equal to 0.06 micrograms/ml [MIC]); resistance, less than or equal to 26 mm (greater than or equal to 2 micrograms/ml). For tetracycline they were as follows: susceptibility, greater than or equal to 38 mm (less than or equal to 0.25 microgram/ml); resistance, less than or equal to 30 mm (greater than or equal to 2 micrograms/ml). For spectinomycin they were as follows: susceptibility, >/= 18 mm (/= 128 micrograms/ml). For ceftriaxone susceptibility, the criterion was >/= 35 mm (